E China's Ningbo accelerates toward a global advanced manufacturing hub

16:41, August 12, 2025 By Li Zhongwen, Liu Junguo ( People's Daily

Robotic arms assemble elevator components at the production facility of Ningbo Hosting Elevator Co., Ltd. in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Hu Xuejun)

One out of every three Android smartphones worldwide is equipped with optical lenses made in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang province. More than 90 percent of global sewing machine manufacturers rely on rotary hooks produced in the city. Ningbo also supplies 40 percent of the cutting wire used globally by high-precision machine tools for producing precision molds and components.

Through a dedicated focus on specialized precision manufacturing, Ningbo-based companies have secured a strong foothold in the global industrial chain. In recent years, the city has been accelerating its efforts to build a world-class hub for advanced manufacturing, steadily enhancing its industrial capabilities.

Fostering champions of specialized manufacturing

Ningbo has cultivated a robust ecosystem of manufacturing champions, with a strong emphasis on nurturing highly specialized sectors.

"Orders are already booked through 2027," said Zhu Mengxing, co-founder of Ningbo Zhongke Xianglong Lightweight Technology Co., Ltd. According to Zhu, the company's operating revenue doubled year on year in the first half of this year, with full-year growth projected to reach 220 percent.

As a pioneer in lightweight solutions for the commercial aerospace industry, the company manufactures major components for aircraft engines and civilian aerospace systems. It has achieved a 42 percent weight reduction in critical aerospace structures, significantly boosting performance and efficiency.

In 2024, the company undertook 27 commercial aerospace projects, securing a leading share of China's commercial aerospace market.

Ningbo has established a tiered support system for enterprises at every stage of development, including potential startups, key enterprises, "little giant" enterprises (specialized SMEs with strong innovation capacity) and individual manufacturing champions. This system encourages synergy among companies of all sizes, promoting comprehensive upgrades across technologies, products, and supply chains. The city is currently home to 104 nationally recognized individual manufacturing champion enterprises.

A technician inspects automated fastener production equipment at a workshop in Zhenhai district, Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Hu Xuejun)

Emerging industries on the rise

Ningbo's emerging industries have maintained strong momentum. In the first half of 2025, the added value of high-tech manufacturing, the digital economy-related manufacturing, and equipment manufacturing rose by 13.1 percent, 7.7 percent and 6.5 percent, respectively.

A key driver behind this growth is the city's emphasis on collaborative innovation across industrial chains and clusters, which has significantly enhanced overall production capacity.

In the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, new energy vehicles (NEVs) are being prepared for global shipment. According to Ningbo Customs, the port exported 107,000 NEVs in the first half of this year, up 275 percent year on year.

The export boom is supported by one of China's most concentrated automotive ecosystems, featuring approximately 5,000 auto parts suppliers within a 50-kilometer radius of the city.

Since Chinese automaker BYD established its east China production base in Ningbo, local parts sourcing has jumped from 35 percent to 68 percent in just six months, enabling same-day delivery of critical components.

Currently, Ningbo is home to more than 8,800 high-tech enterprises, with the added value of high-tech industries accounting for more than 60 percent of the total value-added industrial output of enterprises above the designated size. The city has independently or jointly built several national-level advanced manufacturing clusters and specialized SME industrial clusters.

Enhancing digital and green transformation

Ningbo is strategically integrating digitalization and sustainable practices to drive new economic growth.

On an intelligent production line for air fryers, a robotic arm powered by renewable energy installs a precision smart control module. From injection molding to stamping and coating, the entire process takes just 30 seconds before the appliance is ready for packaging and export.

At Zhejiang Biyi Electric Appliance Co., Ltd. in Yuyao, a county-level city under Ningbo's administration, a 5-megawatt rooftop solar panel system glistens in the sun.

"Thanks to solar energy and our new high-efficiency compressed air system, we're saving over 1.7 million yuan (about $236,719) a year," said Pan Zaiming, chairman of the company's board of supervisors.

Photo shows a busy scene at a container terminal at Beilun Port of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Hu Xuejun)

As a major advanced manufacturing hub in China, Ningbo is charting new paths for industrial transformation by integrating digitalization with sustainable practices.

For instance, a local textile company has developed a flexible, intelligent workshop capable of identifying carbon-intensive and polluting processes, while a local new materials firm is applying digital solutions to eco-friendly product design.

In 2024, Ningbo implemented over 2,700 digital transformation projects for industrial enterprises above the designated size, achieving full coverage. The city added 11 national-level 5G smart factories and six provincial-level pilot "future factories."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Senior EU officials, 24 FMs pledge urgent action to stop starvation in Gaza

Xinhua) 13:15, August 13, 2025

Displaced Palestinians wait to get free food in the west of Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Since October 2023, the death toll from starvation and malnutrition has climbed to 227, including 103 children.

LONDON/BRUSSELS, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-four foreign ministers from Britain, France, Australia, and other countries have jointly pledged to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, stressing that the humanitarian suffering in Gaza has reached what they called "unimaginable levels."

In an online statement co-signed by senior European Union (EU) officials, the ministers stated: "Humanitarian space must be protected, and aid should never be politicised" in the context of Gaza.

They warned of famine in the enclave, saying: "Urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation."

The ministers urged the Israeli government to authorize all international non-governmental organization aid shipments and to unblock essential humanitarian actors from operating. "All crossings and routes must be used to allow a flood of aid into Gaza, including food, nutrition supplies, shelter, fuel, clean water, medicine, and medical equipment," the statement said.

Photo taken on May 23, 2025 shows European Union flags at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

The appeal comes as Gaza is experiencing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that has worsened since March, when Israeli authorities closed all crossings into the Strip.

Signatories of the statement include foreign ministers of Britain, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. EU officials who signed included Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Dubravka Suica, EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean and Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management.

On Tuesday, as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported ongoing operations throughout Gaza, hospitals there reported five deaths due to starvation and malnutrition in the past 24 hours, including two children. This brought the death toll from starvation and malnutrition since October 2023 to 227, including 103 children.

Palestinians take part in a rally against the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and the starvation policies imposed on Gazans at the Manger Square in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, July 26, 2025. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Israeli authorities have repeatedly denied responsibility for the spread of famine in Gaza, prompting a global outcry. In July, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on social media, denying starvation and any policy to cause it.

In response to Israel's continuous military operations and restrictions on humanitarian aid, more countries have voiced support for Palestinian human rights. Calls from the international community to implement the two-state solution have grown stronger.

On July 24, French President Emmanuel Macron said that France will officially recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September. On Monday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also announced that Australia will formally recognize the State of Palestine in September.

Palestinians mourn for victims at Al-Shifa Hospital in central Gaza City, on Aug. 6, 2025. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Lee Min-woo, 46, announced that he and his fiancee are expecting a child during the August 9 broadcast of KBS 2TV's reality show "Mr. House Husband 2." "She is not alone, there's a baby in her belly," he told viewers, confirming the pregnancy.

His fiancee is a third-generation Korean-Japanese single mother raising a six-year-old daughter from a previous marriage. The pair reportedly first met at a gathering of mutual acquaintances in January 2013, lost touch, then reconnected in 2018 and began dating several years later.

The couple conceived their child on a trip to Yangyang, Gangwon Province, and affectionately nicknamed the unborn baby "Yangyang." In a preview aired on August 7, Lee shyly introduced his fiancee and her daughter to the show's hosts, prompting co-host Eun Ji Won to exclaim, "You already have a family, a big one!" while fellow host Kim Won Hee was seen wiping away tears at the touching moment.

The episode also captured Lee's conversation with his parents about welcoming his extended family into their home. His father admitted he was initially puzzled but felt relieved when Lee explained his plans to care for the entire family, and his mother, after overcoming surprise, expressed her wish that her son be happy in his new role.

Lee opened up about financial challenges he has faced, including falling victim to a fraud scheme and lacking a steady income. He acknowledged, "I have a lot to think about, from housing to education." Nevertheless, he stressed the importance of having the baby in Korea "for my parents' sake as well" and voiced his hope that his fiancee and her daughter could move in with his parents if the family agrees.

Last month, Lee shared news of his impending marriage in a handwritten Instagram post. He described his fiancee as "a precious person I have known for a long time and share the same feelings with," and said the announcement marked the fulfillment of his dream to build a supportive family. A representative for Shinhwa confirmed that further details, including plans for a ceremony later this year, would be revealed on the show.

With this announcement, Lee becomes the fourth Shinhwa member to marry, following Eric, Jun Jin, and Andy, and to embark on fatherhood. His fans, collectively known as Shinhwa Changjo, have sent warm messages of congratulations across social media platforms.

Lee debuted with Shinhwa in 1998 and is best known for hit songs such as "Brand New" and "Perfect Man." Outside of music, he has pursued painting, holding his first solo art exhibition, "Purism," in June of this year. Viewers can look forward to Lee's personal journey and the growth of his new family on upcoming episodes, while fans also await details of the couple's wedding ceremony and the arrival of their first child together.
American Greatness has published an article by Stephen Soukup entitled Thanks, Obama. In the article, Mr. Soukup offers an explanation of what has happened to America. He discusses the enormous damage done by Barack Hussein Obama, and he also points to what he believes made it possible for Obama to accomplish so much:

The evolution of the Total State  the state that no longer acknowledges anything as nonpolitical  by and large dates from the Enlightenment. ... From that point on, matters that had once been handled by families and communities slowly but surely became the purview of governments and, eventually, centralized states.

This claim about the Enlightenment leaves out what is most important for us to understand about our American history. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are two of the greatest achievements of the Enlightenment Era, and they are among the many magnificent achievements of the American Enlightenment.

Whereas it makes sense to refer to the Enlightenment Era, it is usually a mistake to refer to the Enlightenment. That is because there were many different versions of Enlightenment thinking during the Enlightenment Era. There were English, French, Scottish, American, German, Italian, Spanish, and even Russian schools.

The Scottish and the American Enlightenments were two of the greatest intellectual achievements of Western civilization, and together they laid the intellectual foundation for America.

Unalienable rights and self-evident truths are two of the most important ideas that guided the American founders in their work. The founders got their understanding of unalienable rights and of self-evident truths from the Scottish Enlightenment. Scottish Enlightenment thinking was brought to America by a wave of teachers from Scotland at precisely the right time to arm the founders with the ideas and manner of thinking they needed in order to create America.

To find the origin of what Soukup aptly refers to as the Total State, we need to look elsewhere, especially to the French and the German Enlightenments. The American Revolution gave America limited government and the world the shining example of George Washington; the French Revolution gave rise to Napoleon. His exercise of total political power and his pursuit of military conquest provided the pattern Hitler was to follow in the 20th century.

So, with regard to the Enlightenments, what has been happening to America? The French and especially the German Enlightenments have been replacing the American Enlightenment. It was not done all at once; it was done progressively by the American progressives.

The progressives got it going in American universities. As I write in my book Common Sense Nation: Unlocking the Forgotten Power of the American Idea,

If you want to understand the political assault on the Constitution during the course of the twentieth century, the place to start is with Woodrow Wilson. ... He was a disciple of the German philosopher GWF Hegel. Hegel exalted the state and rejected the idea of individual liberty. By championing Hegel, Wilson played a leading role in introducing a German strain of thought into the American body politic that was alien to the self-evident truths and unalienable rights of the Founders.

Wilson, a president of Princeton University who went on to become president of the United States, rejected the self-evident truths of the Declaration and scorned the Constitution. He paved the way for Obama and for Obamas astonishingly destructive presidency.

The best way to understand the project of the progressive left in America is to realize that the progressives are the dedicated enemies of the achievements of the American Enlightenment. The American left is the declared enemy of the American founding and all its works. That is what explains leftists determination to get rid of the Electoral College, to do away with the First and Second Amendments, to make war on common sense, and to press on until no trace of the American founding remains.

The American Enlightenment gave the world the Declaration of Independence in 1776; in the same year, the Scottish Enlightenment gave the world Adam Smiths Wealth of Nations. The erosion of political liberty and the free market in America during the course of the 20th century is the result of the abandonment of the ideas that made America the crowning achievement of the Enlightenment Era.

For a deeper dive into this delightful and amazing story, please consider taking a look at my book, Common Sense Nation. For more on the American Enlightenment, please consider this article: Defending the Founders and the (American) Enlightenment For more on the damage inflicted on the American idea by American universities, please consider What Happened to Harvard?

Robert Curry is the author of Common Sense Nation: Unlocking the Forgotten Power of the American Idea and Reclaiming Common Sense: Finding Truth in a Post-Truth World. Both are from Encounter Books. His articles and reviews have appeared in American Greatness, the American Thinker, the Claremont Review of Books, and The Federalist.

Image via Pxfuel.
We are repeatedly and insistently told that there is a famine in Gaza, despite the millions of tons of food that Israel and the UN have shipped there. This is a despicable lie, and it was made possible in significant part because the UN deliberately changed the metrics for what constitutes a famine. In this way, it can justify spending 45% of its aid funding on Gaza, while other parts of the world genuinely starve.

If you were alive in the 1990s, you remember what a real famine looks like. It looks like this famous image of a starving child being stalked by a vulture during the famine in the Sudan. (Amazingly, the child survived.)

Evyatar David, digging his grave in a Hamas tunnel, while his portly captors wave food around, is also what famine looks like:

The only people being deliberately starved and tortured in Gaza are the hostages held in Hamas' dungeons.



Hamas has released a grotesque propaganda video of Evyatar David, a 24-year-old Israeli civilian kidnapped from the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023.



He went to pic.twitter.com/azYpqJY4IK  Embassy of Israel to the USA (@IsraelinUSA) August 2, 2025

What does not look like famine are the plump faces of Gazan children, seen in this CBS News promo for its interview with Mike Huckabee (an interview edited so much that CBS News managed to delete everything Huckabee exposed about Hamass tactics and propaganda):

The absence of a famine is especially clear when the healthy-looking but starving Gazan children break character, after first being filmed weeping hysterically about their alleged hunger:

Oops! Hamas forgot to cut the part where their starving girl breaks character and laughs during the fake famine scene.pic.twitter.com/1357aZqAAi  Liza Rosen (@LizaRosen0000) August 8, 2025 And most places that are experiencing an extreme famine dont celebrate an ice cream shop opening, with well-fed citizens dining on sweet treats: Palestinians are the first famine victims in history to serve every flavor of Slushy while being ethnically cleansed in a genocide.



This is yesterday at Hamada Ice Cream, Central Gaza Strip, from their own Insta accounts.



Source in comment 

pic.twitter.com/fzgoqJxVVI  Hashem (@HashemAllMighty) August 13, 2025 What goes better with famine than ice cream!



I'm so happy to see Ice Cream Hamada bustling.



It's posting lots of videos like this over the past 24 hours.



Now, I don't want to be a party pooper, but some Gazans may want to enjoy in moderation  given all the obesity there. pic.twitter.com/pLS5VJlyb1  dahlia kurtz    (@DahliaKurtz) August 9, 2025 And most places that are experiencing an extreme famine dont celebrate an ice cream shop opening, with well-fed citizens dining on sweet treats:

There is no famine. Its a propaganda con that will be studied for decades to come.

Now were learning that part of Hamass success in selling this narrative happened because the Orwellian UN helpfully changed how it defines famine:

The U.N.-affiliated watchdog group that recently declared a worst-case scenario of famine in Gaza quietly changed one of its key reporting metrics while doing so, making it easier to formally declare that there is a famine in the Hamas-controlled territory. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC)a network of Western governments, the United Nations, and nonprofit groupsdetermined in a July 29 report the worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip, claiming that mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths. [snip] Unlike previous IPC reports on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the July report includes a metricknown as mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC)the agency has not historically used to determine whether a famine is taking place. The report also includes a lowered threshold for the proportion of children who must be considered malnourished for the IPC to declare a famine, down to 15 percent from 30 percent. Aid workers traditionally conduct detailed weight and height measurements to determine whether a child is suffering from acute malnutrition. MUAC, by contrast, consists only of a childs arm circumference, a measurement that can be done more quickly and is considered less precise.

No such metrics have ever before been used to document famines, and its doubtful that they ever will be used again. The purpose behind these new metrics is to demonize Israel. After all, between 2015 and 2023, the UN General Assembly issued 154 resolutions condemning Israel versus 71 against all other countries in the world. Between 2006 and May 2023, the UN Human Rights Council issued 103 resolutions condemning Israel, versus 177 against the rest of the world.

Moreover, the UN isnt just making noise by voting against Israel. Its putting its money (22% of which comes from US taxpayers) behind those votes. Thus, while there are actual famines in Sudan (which looks again like Sudan in the 1990s), Haiti, Yemen, Mali, Somalia, Burundi, and Chad, thats not where the UN is putting its money. Instead, 45% of its global aid relief is going to...you guessed it, Gaza:

Millions of people die from starvation and malnutrition around the world every year.



45% of all global aid goes to Hamas controlled Gaza.



This is immoral.



Children are starving in Africa because of Greta Thunberg and other celebrities who prioritize Gaza over everything. https://t.co/BpEnBWR8U5 pic.twitter.com/1PnsYJ6nKn  Rabbi E. Poupko. #IStandWithIsrael  (@RabbiPoupko) August 11, 2025

Given that Hamas has stolen most of the food thats entered Gaza, this means that the UN has effectively used 45% of its aid money to fund Hamas, a terrorist organization dedicated to annihilating worldwide Jewry, starting with Israel. (After which, it will begin to slaughter Christians, just as Muslims across Africa and the Middle East have been doing.)

The UN arose from the ashes of World War II. World War II, in turn, saw the most concerted effort in the modern world to erase a people through genocide. Theres a cruel irony in the fact that the UN is now dedicated to completing the task that Hitler started, for there can be no doubt that this utterly corrupt organization is dedicated to annihilating the worlds only Jewish state.

Image created using AI.
Apple, like many other successful companies, diversifies its suppliers. This means that instead of getting their components from a single supplier, Apple diversifies to ensure that if the supplier runs into issues, theyve got backup. Now, BOE is one of Apples display suppliers, but the company has now been banned from the US.

BOE banned in US over alleged theft

According to the Korean publication Chosun, it looks like BOE has been banned from the US. The ITC has issued a preliminary ruling that banned a total of eight companies from importing into the US. This includes BOE and seven of its subsidiaries. The reason for the ban has to do with the theft of trade secrets from Samsung Display.

The ITC says, Despite Samsung Displays excellent security measures, BOE obtained and used Samsung Displays trade secrets through misappropriation. It also says that it caused substantial harm and serious threats to Samsung Display. This has resulted in an import ban of 14 years and 8 months, effectively locking them out of the US market.

This has implications for Apple, too. Like we said, Apple sources its displays from BOE along with Samsung. If BOEs displays are prevented from being imported stateside, it means that Apple needs to ensure the iPhones it imports use displays made by Samsung or another company.

This will also benefit the likes of Samsung and LG, both of whom now have one less competitor in the US market.

Apples other issues

That being said, this ruling might also benefit Apple. Now, we said that Apple could be affected due to the import ban. However, there have been reports suggesting that Apple could cut ties with BOE. Apple and BOE have worked together for a while. But recent reports suggest that BOEs yield hasnt been up to Apples standards.

This has to do with the upcoming displays for the iPhone 17, where displays made by BOE have reportedly been cracking. Plus, there is a pending investigation by the US Department of Defense. So, this ITC ban could give Apple an excuse to cut ties with the Chinese company for good.

Plus, lets not forget Trumps tariffs. The Trump administration has imposed a 30% import tax on goods from China. If Apple sources from elsewhere, it could lower their costs as well.
Google launched AI Overviews with the goal of making online search faster and more helpful. However, a new study is raising serious concerns about their impact on content creators. According to a report by AI search and SEO platform Authoritas, publishers are seeing a per-query clickthrough rate loss of nearly 50% when AI Overviews appear on a search results page.

New study claims Googles AI Overviews are a zero-click threat to publishers

The study was submitted as part of a legal complaint to the UKs competition watchdog, the CMA. It measured the clickthrough rate decline across both mobile and desktop devices. The findings are crystal clear: when an AI Overview is present, publishers saw a drop of 47.5% in clickthrough rate on desktop. The click drop figure on mobile platforms is 37.7%.

This phenomenon is often referred to as zero-click search. The idea is that users find the information they need in the AI summary and dont feel the need to click through to the original source. As you can already imagine, this is bad news for publishers who rely on web traffic. The report also noted that even if a site is featured in the top AI Overview position, the improvement in clicks is minor and still considerably lower than a search result page without an AI Overview at all.

This isnt the first time weve heard about this zero-click search derived from AI Overviews. Another recent study from the Pew Research Center resulted in quite similarif not identicalfindings.

Google defends its position

Google, however, disputes the findings. A spokesperson for the company told The Guardian that the study was inaccurate and based on flawed assumptions and analysis. The company claims that people are gravitating to AI-powered experiences. They also assert that these features create new opportunities for websites to be discovered. The spokesperson added that Google continues to send billions of clicks to websites every day. They also claim that the company has not seen dramatic drops in aggregate web traffic as the report suggests. Google has defended its position from the beginning by stating that its AI summaries result in high-quality clicks.

But the reports authors believe the situation could get even worse. They point to the rollout of AI Mode in the US and its recent launch in the UK. Searchs AI Mode uses generative AI to answer almost every user question and follow-up question. The report also concludes that its highly likely that AI Overviews will appear for even more queries in the future. They could even potentially appear for more than 90% of queries if it chose to do so.

Publishers want option to opt out

In response to these concerns, the report that was submitted to the CMA said that publishers urgently need the ability to opt out of AI Overviews without being penalized in normal search results. The CMA, in turn, has stated its plans to give publishers more control over how their content is used in Googles AI features. Its a growing conflict between Googles vision for the future of search and the publishers need to survive in the digital ecosystem.
The PS5 has remained stable at its US price since the console was first released, and for now, its going to stay that way thanks to the manufacturing of those units now happening outside of China. Elsewhere around the globe, Sony has already raised the prices of the PS5 to account for changing market factors. When the tariffs were put into place earlier this year, many thought it would impact the price of the PS5 in the US. A price increase has become a possibility, but nothing has changed as of yet. So, prices will stay the same for the foreseeable future.

Sony recently spoke about this topic during its first-quarter earnings call. This is good news for anyone who doesnt already own a PS5 or PS5 Pro. Especially, since the cost of the former usually goes for $499 with the disc drive. Thats not as expensive as the PS5 Pro, but its not super duper cheap either. So, the last thing some consumers are going to want to see is that price going up.

PS5 units headed for the US have their manufacturing done outside of China

In the initial report, which was translated by Seeking Alpha (via Wccftech), Sony CFO Lin Tao states that manufacturing for US-bound units has already been transferred outside of China. Tao doesnt appear to mention anything about where the manufacturing has been transferred to. Nevertheless, the transfer has been completed, and consoles are being put together elsewhere. This is helping Sony avoid (to some degree) the impact of the tariffs. In turn, this should help it keep the cost of the PS5 and PS5 Pro in the US at their current amounts. Whether or not they stay at those prices until the end of their lifecycle is unclear.

Despite the price increases in a few countries, the PS5 is still doing well for Sony. Earlier this month, it was reported that the PS5 had surpassed 80 million units shipped. Thats still below the PS4 by this time in its lifecycle, but that doesnt take away from the success of the PS5. The PlayStation brand seems as strong as ever.
The Suicide Basin on 22 July before it reached full capacity due to glacial flooding, in Juneau. Photograph: United States Geological Survey/Reuters

Newly installed river barriers held back record levels of flooding and prevented widespread damage in Alaskas capital city on Wednesday, after an ice dam at the nearby Mendenhall Glacier released a huge surge of rainwater and snowmelt, officials said.

Water pooled on several streets and in some yards in Juneau after the Mendenhall River crested earlier in the day, and high water was expected to persist for hours. But many residents in the flood zone had evacuated before peak water levels, and there were no damage reports similar to the past two summers, when about 300 homes were flooded.

The temporary barriers really have protected our community, Juneau city manager Katie Koester told a news conference. If it werent for them, we would have hundreds and hundreds of flooded homes.

On Tuesday morning, authorities confirmed that water had started escaping the ice dam, with flooding expected into Wednesday. Some Juneau residents in the flood zone had already evacuated as officials intensified their warnings on Tuesday, saying: Dont wait, Evacuate TONIGHT.

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Juneau said in an X post late on Tuesday that local hydrologists had adjusted their Mendenhall flooding forecast, anticipating that the river would crest at over 16ft on Wednesday morning.

Nicole Ferrin, with the NWS, said during a briefing on Tuesday that the flood warning was issued after a lot of analysis but the calculations were complicated by rainfall causing significant rising of the lake and river and confirmed that a sub-glacial release had occurred.

This will be a new record based on all of the information we have, Ferrin said, according to the Juneau Empire.

City officials responded to concerns from property owners this year by working with state, federal and tribal entities to install a temporary levee along roughly 2.5 miles (4km) of riverbank in an attempt to prevent widespread flooding. The 10,000 Hesco barriers are essentially giant, reinforced sandbags intended to protect more than 460 properties, said emergency manager Ryan OShaughnessy.

Some water did seep into yards through drains that had been installed under the barriers. In other spots, trees floating down the river struck and damaged the barriers, officials said. But the fortified wall largely held.

The Mendenhall Glacier fills a large valley north of Juneau, creating an ice dam for a meltwater lake that fills Suicide Basin. Since 2011, outburst floods from the depression have been pouring into Mendenhall Lake and rushing down the river toward Juneau each year.

But the annual Mendenhall glacial lake outburst flood is judged to be intensifying as a result of climate change.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (Noaa), said in a statement that Alaska had warmed twice as fast as the rest of the US over the last several decades.

Over the last century, Alaskas average annual temperature has risen 3.1F and the overall trend continues to increase, according to data from Noaas National Centers for Environmental Information.

Scientists have attributed the retreat, melting and thinning of glaciers over the last century to Earths warming climate. Alaskas glaciers are among the fastest-melting glaciers on Earth and have been in steep decline since the late 1980s, according to the Alaska Climate Science Center.

On the record amounts of water that threatened Juneau, Rick Thoman, Alaska climate specialist at the Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy, told Climate.gov, Noaa reported: Without climate change, there is no reason to think that this would be happening on the Mendenhall Glacier, then in the lake, and downriver.

An outburst in August 2023 sent record amounts of water into Mendenhall Lake and down Mendenhall River toward Juneau, inundating areas that had not experienced flooding before, the NWS office in Juneau said at the time, causing significant erosion.

The Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles from Juneau and considered a popular tourist attraction. Juneau lies 800 miles (1,300km) from Anchorage, where Donald Trump and the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, are due to meet on Friday to discuss the war in Ukraine.

Flooding from the glacier has become an annual concern for almost 15 years, and in recent years has swept away houses and swamped hundreds of homes.

It is blamed on the retreat of a smaller glacier near Mendenhall Glacier  a casualty of the heating climate  and left a basin that fills with rainwater and snowmelt each spring and summer.

When the water creates enough pressure, it forces its way under or around the ice dam created by the blue-ice Mendenhall glacier.

The Mendenhall was originally named Sitaantaagu (the Glacier Behind the Town) or Aakwtaaksit (the Glacier Behind the Little Lake) by the Tlingit Indians, but later called Auke (Auk) Glacier, for the Auk Kwaan band of Tlingit Indians, by naturalist John Muir. It was renamed in 1892 for Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, who had helped determine the boundary between Canada and Alaska. It is considered a relic of the little ice age that lasted until the mid-18th century and is now receding at about 100-150ft (30-45 meters) a year.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
Prime Minister Keir Starmer co-chairs a virtual meeting of the Coalition of the Willing from Downing Street in London, Britain, 13 August 2025 - Shutterstock

Arent human rights wonderful? Im sure many of our readers will recall the dark days before the passing of the Human Rights Act: child-snatchers prowling the evening streets to deny parents the right to a family life, gruesome thugs free to torture any citizen who might try and engage in a free election. 1997 really was awful.

Its easy to mock our unfortunate new state religion, but even the most hardened human-rights sceptic will be heartened to read the US State Departments annual report into human rights in Britain.

America apparently takes a different view on domestic affairs than the likes of Lord Hermer, warning that in 2024 The human rights situation worsened in the United Kingdom and that there are now significant issues.

The issues in question relate to our handling of free speech, particularly the enforcement of or threat of criminal or civil laws in order to limit expression in the aftermath of the Southport riots.

The State Department seems aggrieved that the British Government called on US tech firms to censor speech deemed misinformation or hate speech, echoing the dismay of figures within the administration over the treatment of Lucy Connolly, who was jailed for 31 months after posting (and then deleting) a message judged to be racial incitement.

Its hard to dispute the measured criticism of our free expression issues, nor the suggestion of backsliding after the creation of censorship powers under the Online Safety Act.

But what makes this report so remarkable is how similar it is in form  if not character  to those expected of authoritarian rogue states like Belarus. After each example of free-speech violations, we are reminded of the condemnation of media freedom NGOs, as if our Government can no longer be trusted by our closest ally to maintain an independently liberal state.

It is meddling of the highest order, but meddling is what the US State Department is designed to do.

It has since the end of the Second World War sought to influence the domestic affairs of foreign nations, a position garnering endless criticism from the isolationist wing of the Republican Party who perceived it as a needlessly antagonistic mode of diplomatic relations.

The criticism isnt just domestic: countries as diverse as South Korea, El Salvador and Poland have voiced their irritation at attempts to steer their domestic politics towards Americas sola fide conception of human rights, which apparently had something to do with flying BLM flags outside consulates and not complaining about American-funded NGOs.

This state of affairs generally suited the United Kingdom. After all, our Foreign Office is rather skilled in its own art of heavy-handed moralising, with the notion that it ought to promote the global framework of #BeKind over British interests.

We thought wed never find ourselves on the receiving end of a patronising communique. Werent we a sensible country?

But the re-election of Donald Trump changed the State Department  and every other federal department under the presidents control  beyond recognition. Staff budgets have been slashed, LGBTQI+ flags have been pulled down, and relations with foreign allies reevaluated.

Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, has made clear that the agency will serve only in the interests of the American people. Were lucky, then, that the American people seem to be so concerned with our  and Europes  creeping descent into illiberalism.

Some will struggle to accept being chastised by the US. Doesnt America have its own issues with human rights? Hasnt it persecuted non-citizens over comments made on the Israel-Gaza conflict, knowing they are not covered by First Amendment protections? These objections have some merit, but are unlikely to influence those within the department.

Issues of historic corruption in Ukraine didnt mean we withheld military support after Putins invasion. No nation is pure: wed suffer if well-founded and constructive criticism of allies was always considered off-limits.

Theres a much more coherent rebuttal to be made of the State Departments report, and it concerns its methodology. If human rights only seem to be things the people in charge think are good rather than a coherent moral framework for governance, perhaps they should be jettisoned altogether. Im sure our Prime Minister, the former human rights barrister, can see the funny side.
An anti-JD Vance van displaying an altered image of the US vice president has driven around a village in the Cotswolds, where the 41-year-old and his family are reportedly holidaying.

Footage shared by political campaign group Everyone Hates Elon on Tuesday (12 August) shows the vehicle, which features a bald Vance, driving through Charlbury.

The group claim that the doctored picture, which is a popular meme online, got a tourist banned from the US after Customs and Border Protection (CBP) found the image on their phone. The CBP has denied this.

Referencing the alleged incident, the group said: This image got a tourist banned from the US. JD Vance said the UK has no free speech, so today this van is following him on his quiet British holiday. Hows that for free speech, JD?
Fashion accessories chain Claires has appointed administrators for its UK and Ireland business, putting around 2,150 jobs at risk.

The US parent firm for the high street retailer said it has filed a formal notice to administrators from advisory firm Interpath.

In a statement on Wednesday evening, Interpath confirmed Will Wright and Chris Pole have been appointed joint administrators.

The move will raise fears over the future of its 306 stores, with 278 of these in the UK and 28 in Ireland.

Administrators are set to seek a potential rescue deal for the chain, which has seen sales tumble in the face of recent weak consumer demand.

Claires UK stores will remain open as usual and store staff will stay in their positions once administrators are appointed, the company said.

Interpath said the joint administrators will be contacting all of Claires employees in the UK and Ireland to provide further information about what the administration means for them.

Will Wright, UK chief executive at Interpath, said: Claires has long been a popular brand across the UK, known not only for its trend-led accessories but also as the go-to destination for ear piercing.

Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern for as long as we can, while we assess options for the company.

This includes exploring the possibility of a sale which would secure a future for this well-loved brand.

It comes after the US-based Claires group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in a court in Delaware last week.

It is the second time the group has declared bankruptcy, after first filing for the process in 2018.

Chris Cramer, chief executive of Claires, said: This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claires across all markets.

In the UK, taking this step will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward. We are deeply grateful to our employees, partners and our customers during this challenging period.

Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Claires attraction has waned, with its high street stores failing to pull in the business they used to.

While they may still be a beacon for younger girls, families arent heading out on so many shopping trips, with footfall in retail centres falling.

The chain is now faced with stiff competition from TikTok and Insta shops, and by cheap accessories sold by fast fashion giants like Shein and Temu.
Kate Forbes, the deputy first minister, was interviewed on stage as part of The Herald newspapers Unspun Live series - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

An Edinburgh Fringe venue has apologised for letting the gender-critical Deputy First Minister of Scotland appear at one of its events.

Summerhall Arts issued an apology to other performers at the venue for its oversight in allowing Kate Forbes, who backs single-sex spaces for women, to be interviewed on stage last week as part of The Herald newspapers Unspun Live series.

Several artists at the venue were performing in shows with gay or transgender themes, and some set up a safe room because they claimed they were terrified while Ms Forbes was in the building, the Daily Mail reported.

Managers apologised to performers and said that they would develop robust, proactive inclusion and wellbeing policies that would prevent this oversight in our bookings process happening again.

Ms Forbes, a practising Christian, said she unequivocally backed single-sex spaces during Sandie Peggies employment tribunal. Ms Peggie, a nurse, is suing NHS Fife for unlawful discrimination over sharing a changing room with a trans doctor.

Sandie Peggie is suing NHS Fife for unlawful discrimination over sharing a changing room with a trans doctor - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Ms Forbes, who is standing down in May, also said she would not have backed the Scottish Governments self-ID legislation had she not been on maternity leave.

Responding to the row, she said: As I stated at the event, I fervently believe in freedom of speech. Any effort to cancel people, especially politicians, undermines democracy.

Many people attended The Herald event and it is important that we could freely discuss and debate matters in a respectful manner. I respect and acknowledge the fact that in a liberal democracy there are people who will agree with me and others who will disagree with me.

That is all the more reason to create events where the audience and journalists can question politicians openly, as The Herald did.

In 2023, the Stand comedy club was forced to reinstate a show featuring Joanna Cherry, a gender-critical former SNP MP, after she threatened legal action for discrimination. The venue had tried to cancel the event because of her views on trans issues.

In its about-turn, the Stand accepted its initial decision constituted unlawful discrimination against Ms Cherry.

So coddled

Speaking to Matt Forde, the comedian, for his Political Party series at the Fringe, Ms Cherry said it was shocking that staff at Summerhall Arts were so coddled that they need to have a safe room provided for them when Kate came to speak.

She added: Its shocking that a venue has effectively said that the Deputy First Minister of the country is not welcome there.

Ms Forbes is not banned from the building, which includes a cafe and theatre, but a similar event featuring her would be unlikely to go ahead, BBC Scotland reported.

Womens rights campaigners said a refusal to allow Ms Forbes  or anyone who shares her views  to appear would be against the law for the same reasons Ms Cherry cited in her battle with the Stand two years ago.

Marion Calder, a director at For Women Scotland, told The Mail: They clearly havent taken legal opinion on this. Why on earth would members of staff and other performers be scared of a young woman having dangerous thoughts?

Marion Calder, a director at For Woman Scotland, questioned why other performers would be scared of a young woman having dangerous thoughts - Maja Smiejkowska/Reuters

Summerhall is renowned as being one of the largest Fringe venues: what is this saying about the Edinburgh Fringe if free speech doesnt exist and this appearance is intolerable? And who are these arbiters who think some people are not allowed to have thoughts?

Gender-critical views, that a person cannot change sex, are treated as protected beliefs under the Equality Act since 2021.

Ms Calder also asked why performers at the venue were not equally up in arms about the appearance of Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, who said he too supports single-sex spaces.

Ms Forbes, who announced that she was stepping down as an MSP at next years Holyrood election last week, appeared at Summerhall on Aug 7. Interviewing her, Andrew Learmonth claimed that there were people in the building who didnt want this show to go ahead.

Those people, the journalist said, complained to management and wanted the event to be cancelled because they didnt like what they think of your views, particularly around gender, sex and trans issues.

Prevent this oversight happening again

A source at the venue told The Mail: This event was booked as a series of long-form interviews before the guest list being confirmed.

Summerhall Arts primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of the artists and performers we work with, and going forward we will be developing robust, proactive inclusion and wellbeing policies that would prevent this oversight in our bookings process happening again.

The source added that the venue had informed artists ahead of the event.

Shona Robison, the finance minister, supported Ms Forbes and said she disagreed with the venues decision to apologise for hosting the deputy first minister.

She told LBC: We need to be tolerant of each others views. I know Kate Forbes very well. I dont think it sends the right message.
Ofgem has expressed disappointment about a strike announced by workers at the energy regulator over pay and conditions.

Hundreds of members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) in Glasgow, London and Cardiff will walk out for three days from August 26.

An Ofgem spokesperson said: We are disappointed to hear the PCS has today announced industrial action.

 Breaking! Hundreds of PCS members working for Ofgem will take strike action on the day the energy regulator announces its latest energy price cap. More than 700 members employed by the regulator in Glasgow, London and Cardiff will walk out on 26 August, 27 August and 28 pic.twitter.com/4xVlS9RBFH  PCS Union (pcs.org.uk) (@pcs_union) August 12, 2025

Around a third of Ofgems workforce are PCS members, and we continue to engage with them and staff on these important issues.

As with the rest of the public sector, its vital we are as efficient and effective as possible for the households and businesses we serve, while also ensuring we attract and retain the people and skills we need.

Our priority will be to minimise disruption to our operations and to continue to serve consumers across Britain.
Donald Trump has threatened very severe consequences if Vladimir Putin does not agree a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine at the leaders' summit on Friday.

The US president did not specify what the consequences could be, but he has warned of economic sanctions if a meeting between himself and the Russian President in Alaska proved fruitless.

He also said that a meeting between the pair could swiftly be followed by a second that included the leader of Ukraine.

The comments by Trump on Wednesday and the mood music after a virtual meeting of Trump, European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could provide some hope for Kyiv after fears the Alaska meet could sell out Ukraine and carve up its territory.

However, Russia is likely to resist Ukraine and Europe's demands strongly and previously said its stance had not changed since it was set out by Putin in June 2024.

When asked if Russia would face any consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war after Fridays meeting, Trump responded: Yes, they will.

Asked if those consequences would be sanctions or tariffs, Trump told reporters: I don't have to say, there will be very severe consequences."

But the president also described the aim of the meeting between the pair in Alaska as "setting the table" for a quick follow-up that would include Mr Zelensky.

"If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," he said.

"I would like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there."

Trump did not provide a time frame for a second meeting.

European leaders and Mr Zelensky had earlier spoken with Trump in a last-ditch call hosted by Germany to lay out red lines ahead of the Alaska meeting.

"We had a very good call. He was on the call. President Zelensky was on the call. I would rate it a 10, very friendly," Trump said.

Volodymyr Zelensky told Trump that "Putin is bluffing as he discussed the obstacles to ending the war in Ukraine with the US President and other world leaders in the call.

The Ukrainian President also said his "position hasn't changed on surrendering any territory amid growing concerns that Trump will attempt to force through a peace deal that sees Ukraine lose land when he meets Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

Mr Zelensky joined the call with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Trump.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted the call and French President Emmanuel Macron, Italys Giorgia Meloni, Polands Donald Tusk, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, EU leader Ursula von der Leyen and NATOs Mark Rutte also joined.

Mr Zelensky said all the leaders wanted "peace in Ukraine, peace in Europe".

He added: Russia should not have the right to veto Ukraine's NATO prospects...There should be joint pressure on Russia, there should be sanctions, and there should be a message that if Russia doesn't agree to a ceasefire in Alaska, this principle should work.

He says he told Mr Trump that "Putin is bluffing.

He is trying to push forward along the whole front...Putin is also bluffing saying he doesn't care about the sanctions and that they're not working," he said.

One of the main points of contention is said to be the Americans suggestion that Ukraine give up Donbas, which has a large Russian minority, in exchange for Putin agreeing to stop any further occupation of the country.

Mr Zelensky has previously vowed not to agree to a plan to agree to a plan that would see control of the region officially handed over to Russia.

On Wednesday he confirmed his "position hasn't changed because it's based on the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian constitution hasn't changed".

He added: "Any questions concerning our country's territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution.

Sir Keir insisted there is now a "viable" chance of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

Addressing a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing countries of Ukrainian allies from Downing Street, Sir Keir said: "As I've said personally to President Trump, but for three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on and we haven't got anywhere near the prospect of actually a viable solution, a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire.

"Now we do have that chance, because of the work the President has put in."

Speaking to leaders including US vice president JD Vance and Mr Zelensky, Sir Keir said Russia should continue to be put under pressure. He also agreed that no negotiations about Ukraine could take place without Mr Zelensky.

Sir Keir said: "This is a critical moment. We have to combine active diplomacy on the one hand with military support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia."

He added: "International borders cannot be, and must not be changed by force, and again that's a long-standing principle of this group. And alongside that, any talk about borders, diplomacy, ceasefire has to sit alongside a robust and credible security guarantee to ensure that any peace, if there is peace, is lasting peace and Ukraine can defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal."

The call was the last chance for Mr Zelensky and other European leaders to lobby the US President before he meets with Putin alone at the remote Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson - a US military installation in Anchorage, Alaska.

A Downing Street spokesman said: The Prime Minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering - international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.

Europe stands ready to support this and will continue to work alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The White House has been managing expectations that the discussion will lead to a peace deal.

On Tuesday, Mr Trumps press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the meeting as a "listening exercise" where the President would seek a "better understanding" of the situation.

Some have criticised the decision to hold talks on the war in Alaska, which is land Russia sold to the US almost 160 years ago.

Nigel Gould-Davies, former British ambassador to Belarus, said: "It's easy to imagine Putin making the argument during his meetings with Trump that, 'Well, look, territories can change hands. We gave you Alaska. Why can't Ukraine give us a part of its territory?'"
Former The Apprentice contestant Tom Skinner has said his barbecue and drinks with US vice president JD Vance was a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The 34-year-old businessman, who has become a social media star on X following his time on the BBC business show, met up with US president Donald Trumps number two Mr Vance and his friends and family, after the duo had previously chatted on the social media platform.

In a post on X, Skinner said: When the vice president of the USA invites you for a BBQ an beers, you say yes.

Here is a pic of Me and Vice President @JDVance towards the end of the night after a few beers Im overdressed in my suit, but when the VP invites you to a BBQ, you dont risk turning up in shorts an flip-flops Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his https://t.co/HQGtaIY6fD pic.twitter.com/QOkL813qoR  Thomas Skinner  (@iamtomskinner) August 12, 2025

Unreal night with JD and his friends and family. He was a proper gent. Lots of laughs and some fantastic food. A brilliant night, one to tell the grand kids about.

In a later post he added: Here is a pic of me and vice president @JDVance towards the end of the night after a few beers.

Im overdressed in my suit, but when the VP invites you to a BBQ, you dont risk turning up in shorts an flip-flops.

Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his friends and family. Once in a lifetime. Bosh.

Mr Vance has previously shown support for Skinner on X, after the star claimed he had received death threats and vile comments about my children, following a series of posts claiming somethings gone wrong in the UK, and saying there is nothing wrong with being proud of where youre from.

Following the post complaining about alleged abuse, Mr Vance replied with a picture of a cartoon character and a message that read: Hang in there, my friend. Remember that 90 percent of people attacking your family look like this.

Hang in there, my friend. Remember that 90 percent of people attacking your family look like this: pic.twitter.com/Efc08xv7Ak  JD Vance (@JDVance) July 30, 2025

In other posts, Skinner had said that it was not far-right to be flying your flag and loving your country, and complained that it aint safe out there anymore in London, claiming the city was hostile and tense.

Mr Vances meeting with Skinner came after he joined foreign secretary David Lammy at his Chevening country estate last week.

On The Apprentice, Skinner was fired by Lord Alan Sugar in week nine during the shows 15th series in 2019.
Former Holyrood presiding officer Sir George Reid has died at the age of 86, his family have announced.

He died in the early hours of Tuesday at Strathcarron Hospice near Denny, just a few miles from where he was born in Clackmannanshire.

Sir George began his career as a journalist and was first elected as an SNP MP for Clackmannan and Eastern Stirlingshire in 1974, serving in the House of Commons before narrowly losing at the 1979 election.

He then returned to journalism, becoming the producer who brought the world pictures of the Ethiopian famine in 1984 alongside presenter Michael Buerk, which sparked the Band Aid and Live Aid concerts.

Sir George later took on a role with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent.

Sir George returned to Holyrood last year for the 25th anniversary of its opening (Jeff J Mitchell/PA)

It was not until the opening of the Scottish Parliament in 1999 that he returned to the political frontline as an MSP for the Mid Scotland and Fife region, and he then won the Ochil seat in 2003.

He became the second presiding officer following the 2003 poll  after losing his bid to be the first in 1999 to Sir David Steel.

Sir George oversaw the final stages of the then controversial new Holyrood building at the foot of the Royal Mile and the move from the Parliaments initial home on the Mound.

In late June, Sir George was diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer  having previously had successful surgery for bladder cancer more than a decade ago.

His family said he was working until his final few weeks at Stirling University, where he was a professional teaching fellow and was well enough to drive home through the Clackmannanshire area where he was born and represented in two different legislatures.

He is survived by Daphne, his wife of 57 years, daughter Morag and her husband, and five grandchildren.

Flags at the Scottish Parliament he helped to complete have been lowered as a mark of respect, current Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone announced.

First Minister John Swinney led tributes to Sir George, crediting him as being one of the voices that brought him into politics as a teenager.

I am desperately saddened by the loss of the remarkable George Reid, the First Minister said in a statement on Wednesday.

His passion for Scotland, his principled internationalist world view, and his empathy for the plight of people everywhere made him a voice that could not be ignored across five decades.

Sir George, pictured in 2023, served as both an MP and MSP (Jane Barlow/PA)

As an MP, he was a trailblazing member of the SNPs breakthrough victories of 1974. He became, for me, one of the compelling voices of the campaign for a Scottish Parliament in 1979.

His was one of the voices that brought me into politics and kindled my belief in independence that has driven my adult life. I feel so privileged to have been shaped by his influence and inspiration.

George was a founding member of the Scottish Parliament. More than that, after Holyroods difficult early years, he put aside party and provided emphatic national leadership as the presiding officer, ending the controversies over the new building and cementing the institutions place in modern political life.

Throughout it all, his articulation of the case for Scotland deciding her own future was as compelling to me when I sat with him in his home just four short weeks ago, as it was when I was a teenager.

Mr Swinney said Scotland, and the world, is richer for the life of George Reid and poorer for his passing.

He added: My thoughts and deepest condolences are with Dee, his family, his many friends and all whose lives were enhanced by knowing George Reid.

Sir George pictured at his desk in Holyrood in 2004 (PA)

Ms Johnstone said: On behalf of all at the Scottish Parliament, I express our deepest sadness at the death of our second presiding officer, the Rt Hon Sir George Reid.

Hell be remembered not only for bringing the Holyrood construction project to completion, but for building confidence and ambition in our young Parliament.

A proud son of Clackmannanshire and an internationalist by outlook, he was determined to put Holyrood on the map at home and abroad, and very much succeeded.

By the time he left office, Holyrood was established at the centre of public life in Scotland and over a million people had visited to see for themselves the new Parliament in action.

The story of devolution and the early years of our Parliament will remember George fondly and with gratitude.

Sir George was credited with his work to bring about the Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood (PA)

SNP depute leader Keith Brown  who won Sir Georges seat after his decision to stand down in 2007  said the former presiding officers contribution to Scotland was profound.

He added: We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Scotland has lost a great public servant, and the SNP mourns the passing of one of our own with both sadness and gratitude.

George Reids life and legacy will endure in our Parliament, in our politics, and in the continuing journey toward the fairer, more just Scotland he worked tirelessly to build.

Scottish Tory MSP Murdo Fraser, who was elected to Holyrood in 2001, said of Sir George: As presiding officer, he carried out his duties with dignity and gravitas, earning the respect of colleagues across the political spectrum.

Sir George will perhaps be best remembered for his pivotal role in getting the Scottish Parliament building project back on track when it faced severe cost overruns and delays.
Harvey Weinstein in Manhattan court on Wednesday - 2025 Getty Images

Harvey Weinstein will face a New York jury for a third time after his rape conviction was overturned and jurors failed to reach a verdict at his second trial.

Last month, the film mogul was found guilty of sexually assaulting former Project Runway production assistant Miriam Haley, and not guilty of sexually assaulting Polish model Kaja Sokola.

The jury was unable to reach a verdict on his charge of rape against the aspiring actress Jessica Mann. Weinstein denies the rape charge.

Ms Mann previously said she would repeatedly testify until justice was served.

I have told the district attorney I am ready, willing and able to endure this as many times as it takes for justice and accountability to be served, she said, after a mistrial in her case was declared. Today is not the end of my fight.

Jesscia Mann (centre) says she is willing to endure for as long as it takes for justice to be served - JOHN ANGELILLO/AFP

Weinstein was serving a 23-year Sentence in a prison in up-state Rome, New York, when the 2020 conviction for rape and a criminal sexual act was overturned.

Weinstein was found guilty of several counts of sexual assault, including rape, in a Los Angeles trial in 2022. The California conviction and 16-year prison sentence still stands.

After the rape conviction was thrown out in April 2024, Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, opted to charge Weinstein again almost immediately.

During the trial, prosecutors sought to show Weinstein used his power in Hollywood to sexually assault and exert enormous control over the three women, all of whom were seeking work in the film and television industry.

He was accused of abusing them in hotel rooms between 2006 and 2013, using his power and influence to manipulate his victims into keeping quiet.

Justice Curtis Farber had initially said that the jury would continue its deliberations over the rape charge after failing to reach a verdict.

Trial beset with jury issues

The six-week trial, which Weinstein, suffering a litany of health issues, sat through in a wheelchair was beset with jury issues.

Earlier on in the trial, the foreman had shared with the judge that he was concerned about something going on in the jury room and one person was being treated unfairly by the group of five women and seven men.

The judge subsequently met privately with one person on the 12-member jury referred to as Juror One. The judge then stated in open court that there had been fighting in the jury room.

Juror One has made it very clear that he is not going to change his position, Mr Farber said, adding that Juror One did not tell him what his position was. He indicated that at least one other juror made comments to the juror that, Ill meet you outside one day, and theres yelling and screaming.

Weinstein will be sentenced over his conviction relating to Ms Haley on Sept 30.
Athena Georgopoulos and Andrew Gunn, who had been together for three years, were looking forward to the birth of a baby daughter in four months

A homeless Australian man has been accused of murdering a pregnant woman and decapitating her partner in a targeted attack.

The bodies of Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and 50-year-old Andrew Gunn were discovered by police in a housing unit in the Melbourne suburb of Mount Waverley at 9.55pm on Monday.

Ms Georgopolous was five months pregnant with her daughter when she was killed and had been eagerly looking forward to becoming a mother, her family said.

The head of Mr Gunn was found impaled on a spike near the crime scene, police sources told the Herald Sun newspaper.

Detectives are seeking to establish if the graffiti on the housing block is linked to the killings

Graffiti that read karma is not a menu and betrayal, unpredictable, inevitable had been sprayed on the side of the building in yellow and black paint.

Detectives are investigating whether there is a connection between the graffiti and the attack.

Armed police arrested Ross Judd, a 34-year-old homeless man, at a railway station almost four hours after the couples bodies were found.

The person that we took into custody was in the company of two large dogs, I think that would look fairly obvious to people who may have been in the area, Det Insp Dean Thomas, of the homicide squad, said.

The suspect for the double killing is apprehended by police at Westall railway station, a few miles from the crime scene

Suspect being arrested at train station

Police said the suspect was known to the victims and that the attack appears to have been targeted. But the exact nature of the relationship between the victims and the suspect is not yet clear.

Mr Judd has been charged with two counts of murder and appeared at Melbourne magistrates court for a short hearing on Wednesday morning.

Prosecutors requested another 10 weeks to prepare their evidence because of the complexity of the case and delays in carrying out post-mortems on the victims, the BBC reported.

Mr Judds lawyer asked that her client be assessed by a prison nurse to follow up on his medication.

Ross Judd appeared before magistrates in Melbourne on Wednesday - Anita Lester/ABC

Police received a call on Monday evening requesting a welfare check at the Mount Waverley unit after some yelling was heard from the property.

In a second call a few minutes later, it was reported that the bodies had been found by a neighbour.

CCTV footage showed a barefooted man dressed all in black walking away from the unit a short time after the incident.

Patty Dilveridis, Ms Georgopouloss aunt, said her niece had been planning her new life as a mother and had been with Mr Gunn for approximately three years.

She was so looking forward to having a baby, because she was 39 [and] she never thought she could have one, Ms Dilveridis told the Herald Sun.

Athena Georgopoulos, who was expecting a baby girl, was described as my little heart by her mother in a social media tribute - Facebook

Ms Georgopoulos, a former customer service representative for several electricity and insurance companies, was the primary carer for her mother Petty Georgopoulos. She was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood magistrates court on Sept 1 on car theft and burglary charges, the Daily Mail reported.

Her mother paid tribute to her daughter in a post on social media.

My little heart, you left life so unfairly that I still cannot believe it, she wrote on Facebook. In recent days you were so happy  we made dreams together for our little granddaughter that you were going to bring into your life.

And suddenly, everything was erased in one night, when an [alleged] murderer cut the thread of your life and of my little granddaughters life that you were going to bring into the world in four months.

No matter how much they separated us, I will never stop loving you. Forever. Until we meet again, my little girl, in the light of the angels.
Chile Rapa Nui (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Easter Islands iconic moai statues face an existential threat from rising sea levels, with powerful seasonal waves predicted to inundate the 15 monumental figures at Ahu Tongariki by the end of the century, according to a new study. The research, published in the Journal of Cultural Heritage, also warns that approximately 50 other cultural sites on the remote Pacific island are at risk of flooding.

"Sea level rise is real," stated Noah Paoa, lead author of the study and a doctoral student at the University of Hawaii at Manoas School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. "Its not a distant threat." Mr Paoa, of Easter Island (known to its Indigenous people as Rapa Nui), and his team created a high-resolution "digital twin" of the islands eastern coastline, running computer models to simulate future wave impacts under various sea level rise scenarios.

Their findings indicate that waves could reach Ahu Tongariki, the islands largest ceremonial platform, as early as 2080. This site, home to the towering moai, attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually and is crucial to the islands tourism economy. Beyond its economic value, the ahu is deeply intertwined with Rapa Nuis cultural identity, lying within Rapa Nui National Park, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site.

The roughly 900 moai statues across the island were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 10th and 16th centuries to honor important ancestors and chiefs. The threat is not unprecedented; a magnitude 9.5 earthquake off the coast of Chile in 1960 triggered a tsunami that swept already-toppled moai further inland, damaging some features before the monument was restored in the 1990s.

While the study focuses on Rapa Nui, its conclusions underscore a broader global reality: cultural heritage sites worldwide are increasingly imperiled by rising seas. A UNESCO report last month revealed that around 50 World Heritage sites are highly exposed to coastal flooding.

Possible defences for Ahu Tongariki range from armoring the coastline and constructing breakwaters to the drastic measure of relocating the monuments. Mr Paoa hopes his findings will prompt these crucial conversations now, before irreversible damage occurs. "Its best to look ahead and be proactive instead of reactive to the potential threats," he urged.

___

The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of APs environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
Damage to infrastructure in Gaza has caused international bodies to question whether resettlement could be considered voluntary - Jack Guez/AFP

South Sudans cabinet has agreed to receive Palestinians from the Gaza Strip following a request from Israel, The Telegraph has learnt.

A foreign ministry official in Juba said the government had approved the request as part of a deal which also involved the US.

The move comes as Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, is attempting to revive the controversial idea of voluntary resettlement of civilians from the enclave.

On Wednesday, South Sudan described claims of a deal as baseless and not reflective of official government policy.

However, it has been claimed that the government has in fact agreed to work with Israel, raising the potential of a serious row from countries who oppose any suggestion of resettlement of Gazans.

The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has prompted discussions about relocating civilians - Omar al-Qattaa/Getty Images

A South Sudanese foreign ministry source claimed that the UAE would provide funding, but this was categorically denied by the state.

Meanwhile, America would lift sanctions on South Sudan, and Israel would invest in health and education.

The South Sudanese land is enough to host more people from different nations, and also its good for the South Sudanese to open wide the window for external business to grow the economy, the official said.

He added that the deal had been agreed by the cabinet but faced stiff opposition elsewhere, meaning the government was unwilling to acknowledge it.

This kind of deal is not easy for South Sudanese to understand right now and also we have a very complex political situation in South Sudan, he said.

On Tuesday evening, South Sudanese politicians voiced their unease over the plan.

One MP told The Telegraph that the matter had been discussed in Parliament but rejected by a majority of parliamentarians.

He said: I myself reject it because South Sudan is a very young country. We are not able to feed ourselves, how can we get more people to live with us?

In the next meeting we are going to reject it again from the Parliament. This idea is unacceptable to us.

South Sudan is a very young country and in need of money to rebuild after years of instability - Sally Hayden/SOPA Images

The debate came as Sharren Haskel, Israels deputy foreign minister, arrived in Juba to sign a memorandum of understanding on bilateral consultations.

It followed a visit by the South Sudanese deputy foreign minister to Israel last week, and a report by Associated Press, citing six sources, claiming that talks on the resettlement of Gazans to the African state were progressing.

Israel has repeatedly come under fire for raising the possibility of relocating Gazans from their homeland, prompting allegations of ethnic cleansing.

Moving them from one land already ravaged by war and famine to another would only amplify that concern.

Voluntary relocation

News of the possible South Sudan deal broke after Mr Netanyahu appeared on Israeli television to revive discussion about relocating civilians from the Strip.

The idea was first proposed by Donald Trump, the US president, in February. He said the population should be removed and Gaza completely redeveloped to become part of what he envisaged as a riviera in the Middle East.

The Israeli government has floated the idea of relocation, but always said that it should be voluntary.

Give them the opportunity to leave, first of all, combat zones, and generally to leave the territory, if they want, said Mr Netanyahu on Tuesday, in comments that did not mention South Sudan.

We will allow this, first of all within Gaza during the fighting, and we will certainly allow them to leave Gaza as well.

He likened the situation to Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan, all of which had seen large exoduses as a result of war.

Numerous foreign capitals and international bodies have previously warned against the plan, with some questioning if resettlement from Gaza could be considered genuinely voluntary, given the catastrophic damage to infrastructure and the dire humanitarian situation.

They have also voiced fears that voluntarily displaced Palestinians would not be allowed to return, citing comments made by Mr Netanyahus ultra-nationalist coalition partners calling for the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in Gaza.

Palestinians displaced by the Israeli offensive shelter in a tent camp on a beach in Gaza - Mahmoud Issa/Reuters

A feature of the recent Operation Gideons Chariots, Israels new ground offensive, has been the wide-scale demolition of residential buildings. It is likely the same tactic will be used in the upcoming assault on Gaza City, confirmed last week.

Forcibly displacing a population could be considered a war crime.

Investigating feasibility

The Associated Press reported multiple sources as confirming the current talks between Israel and South Sudan.

Joe Szlavik, founder of a US lobbying company working for South Sudan, also said that he had been briefed by officials on the talks.

He said an Israeli delegation planned to visit the country to investigate the feasibility of setting up camps.

Ms Haskels trip is the first official visit to South Sudan by an Israeli government representative.

In a statement, she said: While the international community is focused solely on Gaza, South Sudan is facing a real humanitarian crisis and the threat of genuine famine.

Obvious destinations

As neighbours with formal relations with Israel, Egypt and Jordan would be the most obvious destinations for any departing Palestinians.

However, both have staunchly opposed any such scheme, despite significant pressure from Mr Trump.

Israel is said to have held talks with Indonesia, Libya, Ethiopia, Somalia and Somaliland about the possibility of accepting Gazans, but it was reported that these had not borne fruit.

South Sudan is in desperate need of foreign cash to help itself rebuild after years of instability and war with Sudan, its Arab-dominated neighbour.

It has been reported that they accepted help from Israels Mossad spy agency during their civil war with Khartoum.

Emigration inevitable

South Sudan also wants Mr Trump to lift the US travel ban on the country.

But Egypt has reportedly lobbied South Sudan not to co-operate with Israel on the scheme.

In recent months, Mr Trump has sounded sanguine about the chances of his riviera scheme coming off, with all current indications being that his administration now favours an Arab-led temporary administration for Gaza, once the war has ended.

Mr Trump previously shared AI images envisaging the Gaza Strip as a riviera in the Middle East

Shany Mor, a former director for foreign policy on Israels national security council and now a lecturer at Reichman University, said that a certain amount of emigration was inevitable.

When this war ends, Gaza will be in such a terrible state that it is impossible to see how it even begins to recover without some large, even temporary migration, he said.

It wont be the agreed policy of the Arab administration, but it will definitely happen to a limited but significant extent.

The Jewish states international reputation has taken a battering in recent weeks over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Britain, France and a number of other prominent allies of Israel have promised to recognise Palestine, in moves branded a reward for terrorism.

Christopher Luxon, the prime minister of New Zealand, said on Wednesday that Mr Netanyahu had lost the plot, describing the planned occupation of Gaza City as utterly unacceptable.

Meanwhile, the UN has put Israel and Russia on notice over conflict-related sexual violence accusations.
Judge orders ICE to release mom who came to the US as an unaccompanied minor a decade ago

A federal judge has ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement to release a young mother who came to the U.S. as an unaccompanied minor from El Salvador almost a decade ago.

Antonia Aguilar Maldonado, who doesnt have a criminal record, was detained by ICE officers on July 17 and was taken to the Kandiyohi County jail in central Minnesota. Her two young children were born in the U.S. and are citizens.

A senior U.S. District Court Judge ordered the 26-year-olds release on a $10,000 bond as her immigration case progresses. She was set to be released on Wednesday, even as the Department of Homeland Security took steps to deport her.

According to Fox 9, her attorney, Gloria Contreras Edin, said:

She wants to be reunited with her children immediately.

"The breast milk that she's feeding her toddler is the only thing that her toddler can take, she added. He is allergic to other forms of milk. And so, unfortunately, this baby has been without his mother's milk now for 26 days, and she wants to get to him right away and start nursing."

Antonia Aguilar Maldonado was detained by ICE in July after arriving in the U.S. as an unaccompanied minor nearly a decade ago (Gloria Contreras Edin)

As of Monday, more than 60,000 people were in immigration detention, breaking a record set during President Donald Trumps first stint in office, internal ICE records reveal, according to The New York Times.

In January, about 39,000 people were in immigration custody. The previous spike came in August 2019, when 55,654 people were detained. Trump has made a crackdown on immigration one of the top priorities of his second term.

Antonia will finally be able to hold her children again, nurse her toddler, and begin healing, Contreras Edin told The Independent. Her release will allow her to continue her immigration case while being present for her familysomething the law already allowed, but ICE tried to deny.

A previous ruling by an immigration judge stated that Aguilar Maldonado, whos seeking asylum and lives in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, wasnt a public safety threat, nor a flight risk. DHS appealed the ruling to keep the mother in custody.

Attorneys for Aguilar Maldonado moved the dispute to the U.S. District Court in Minnesota, requesting that a federal judge order her release. Following Tuesdays oral arguments, senior U.S. District Court Judge Susan Richard Nelson ordered that she be released on bond.

One of Aguilar Maldonados lawyers, Hannah Brown, told Fox 9: "We are feeling very relieved that the judge made the right decision in this case.

Brown told the court Tuesday that Aguilar Maldonado was suffering from emotional and mental distress due to the separation from her children. She added that her client faces physical harm as she cant pump breast milk on a set schedule or in sanitary conditions.

A judge ordered Antonia Aguilar Maldonados release on bond to allow her to see her children (Gloria Contreras Edin)

Nelson said from the bench that ICE had violated their own policies for pregnant and nursing mothers. She noted that while ICE argues that an executive order from Trump, signed in January, revoked the rule, "nowhere in that policy is there a mention of nursing mothers." She went on to argue that agents made a mistake when arresting Aguilar Maldonado, according to CBS Minnesota.

"In the court's view, the irreparable harm to separating a nursing mother and her child is self-evident," said Nelson.

A close friend of the mother, Telma Vides, said: "It is just amazing what God can do to get her out where it was not a possibility."

Vides and Aguilar Maldonado are members of St. Paul church, which helped raise $10,000 for the bond. Church members were in the federal courtroom Tuesday and erupted into a standing ovation when the release order came down.

"These three weeks [have] been a roller coaster," Vides added. "No and then yes, and then no and yes, and tomorrow, next week, and then another court date and another court day, and then nothing. And we were like, What is going to happen? Is she really going to come out? Are they really going to release her?"

Aguilar Maldonado was set to post her $10,000 bond Wednesday, leading to her release. Her immigration case continues next Tuesday when shes set to return to court for proceedings as the government attempts to have her deported as an illegal immigrant.

We expect the government will still pursue her removal case in immigration court, but she will now have the chance to fight it from a position of freedom, said Contreras Edin.

The Independent has contacted ICE for comment.
London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG.L) says it remains open to welcoming Indian companies for dual listings in London.

"We would certainly welcome listings here from India," LSEG CEO David Schwimmer told Yahoo Finance UK.

"One of the great things about London is that we have companies that list here from all over the world. We see companies from the Middle East, India, Africa, Asia, of course from the UK and Europe. It is one of the strengths, the international nature of this market.

About 6,000 companies with a market cap worth close to $6tn (4.5tn) are listed across the two main Indian stock exchanges: the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE.NS) and the National Stock Exchange (^NSEI). In the UK, 1,918 companies with a market cap of $3.4tn are listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSEG.L).

Read more: LSE's new stock market for private firms will be a draw for investors, says CEO

"India is a booming economy ... a booming equity market over the last few quarters. Really interesting to see what's going on there," he added.

Schwimmer, however, said for now there is no specific agreement in place, amid broader discussions between the UK and India on market cooperation.

Asked whether Indian regulatory caution toward foreign exchange partnerships was a barrier, Schwimmer said: India is an area where first of all we have a lot of our people in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and its a big focus area for us as a business.

"We do both data and also FX trading there have been some restrictions on the Indian side for a number of years. I think theres certainly openness on our side to welcoming more dual listings and we'll see how that plays out. We have very good relationships with them [Indian stock exchanges]."

Schwimmer added that currently there were "no specific partnerships or trade metrics".

Indian firms are prohibited from listing directly on overseas exchanges. Instead, they can only list on foreign markets via instruments like depository receipts.

The initiative to enable Indian companies to list directly abroad was first unveiled in 2020 but was postponed due to concerns about potential tax losses and opposition from certain factions within Indias ruling party. Critics feared that allowing companies to list internationally would reduce regulatory oversight of these firms.

Read more: UK taxpayers subsidising S&P 500, says LSEG boss

LSEG has been seeking to expand its international listings base amid competitive pressure from New York and Asian markets. Advocates argue that, if permitted under Indian rules, dual listings could provide Indian corporates with wider investor access while giving London a new growth pipeline.

In April, chancellor Rachel Reeves and India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said both countries were keen to deepen financial cooperation by enabling the cross-border travel of capital through direct equity share listings between their stock markets.

In a joint statement, Reeves and Sitharaman said: Both sides acknowledge the opportunities that overseas equity listings offer to broaden access to global investors and enhance liquidity.

Both sides welcome the recent regulations direct listing in Indias GIFT City, which will pave the way to allow Indian companies to list in international jurisdictions and noted the feasibility being explored by India for this at the London Stock Exchange.

The case for dual listings: Why it matters for Indian companies

A report by the India-UK Financial Partnership (IUKFP), which sets the framework to connect the equity capital markets of London and Delhi, noted that Indias financial market had reached global standards.

Indias equity market capitalisation surpassed the $5tn mark in 2024, and the country is now the worlds leading market for initial public offerings (IPOs), the largest equity derivatives market by volume, and the second-largest equity capital market activity.

Read more: How to invest in the Indian stock market

India, now the fifth-largest global economy with a GDP of $4.27tn, is poised to become the third-largest economy by the end of this decade. The report said that these developments have positioned the countrys equity market as an attractive destination for international issuers, particularly for those operating in India.

Since the mid-1990s, Indian companies have accessed international markets via depositary receipts (DRs), with many opting to list DRs in London, New York and Luxembourg. However, the IUKFP report suggested that this method has lost its appeal.

There have been very few DR issuances by Indian firms in the past decade. India also introduced an Indian depositary receipts (IDR) policy for foreign companies, though this route has seen little success, with only one international company using it.

The report argued that Indian companies with global ambitions might seek overseas listings not only to raise capital beyond what is available through foreign portfolio investments (FPI), foreign direct investment (FDI) or private equity, but also to access specialised investors and permanent capital and to facilitate overseas mergers and acquisitions. The same logic applies to foreign firms and investment funds looking to access the Indian market.

No Indian company has publicly shared its desire to have a second listing in London, but it would be no surprise to see some of the biggest companies exploring the possibility. Reliance (RELINFRA.NS), Tata (TATAMOTORS.NS) or Infosys (INFY.NS) all have a strong UK presence already.

The largest Indian company to IPO in London to date is natural resources group Vedanta (VEDL.NS) Resources, which listed in 2003 in a flotation that valued the company at more than 1bn.

By allowing equity listings abroad, the report said India would further internationalise its National Stock Exchange (^NSEI) and Bombay Stock Exchange (^BSESN), making them global players. This would enable Indian investors to diversify their portfolios into high-quality international stocks without tapping into their foreign exchange quotas under the liberalised remittance scheme (LRS). The report also noted that a cross-listing arrangement would enable foreign companies with listings in the UK to establish a presence on Indian stock exchanges.

How dual listings could revive Londons IPO scene

Londons initial public offering (IPO) market, once a magnet for global capital, is now enduring its most prolonged slump in over a decade, amid broader concerns about the health and competitiveness of the UKs equity markets.

Fundraising from Londons IPO scene slumped in the first half of 2025, with just nine initial public offerings (IPOs) raising 182.8m ($246.2m)  raising questions about the fading allure of the UK as a hub for global capital.

Read more: London IPO fundraising slumps in blow to UK

The bleak figures mark a steady decline from the same period last year, when eight IPOs generated 526.7m in H1 2024. The downturn continued in the second half of 2024, with nine IPOs raising 258m, according to analysis by law firm White & Case LLP of the latest London Stock Exchange data.

London's most significant IPO of 2025 to date came in April with the listing of professional services company MHA (MHA.L), which raised 98m on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

Though the UK has no regulatory or policy changes required to facilitate listing Indian equity stock on the LSEG, India's regulatory framework must be updated. Specifically, the UK must be added as a permitted jurisdiction in Indias Companies (Listing of Equity Shares in Permissible Jurisdictions) Rules 2024. Furthermore, the LSEG must be recognised as a permitted stock exchange.

The UKs regulations also require shareholders in overseas companies to notify issuers of changes in voting rights at specific thresholds, starting at 5%. There is no expectation that Indian companies listing on the LSEG must disclose beneficial ownership beyond what is required under Indian corporate law. The IUKFP suggested that India adopt the UKs standards for secondary listings, as they have lower disclosure thresholds.

What it means for Indian investors

An equity capital markets connectivity framework between the two countries would allow Indian firms to maintain their domestic domicile while accessing international capital. This approach would be more efficient than the current DR system. It would allow start-ups and private companies in India to tap global capital markets without shifting their domicile.

The workgroup also proposed that the UKs Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) should be able to review and approve prospectuses from Indian companies seeking a cross-listing. Indian companies could use their Indian accounting standards for financial statements, and once listed, they would be subject to the same obligations as other internationally listed companies.

When it comes to taxation, a thorny point that has delayed discussions to move forward with the plan, the working group recommended that these taxes and duties be levied only in the jurisdictions in which the trading has taken place (avoiding double taxation) and in which the investors are resident.

Delhi politics could still derail the plan, as the UKIFP report warns: There are some in India who assert that Indias well developed equity markets with its rich valuations, large domestic and foreign investor base, and a market depth that can accommodate billions of dollars plus capital raisings, are adequate for Indian companies, and that they dont need to seek funding or investors outside the country.

How foreigners and NRIs can invest in Indian stock markets

Currently, to invest in shares of Indias listed companies, foreign investors have to use the foreign portfolio investment (FPI) route. Investors, whether individuals or firms, need to be registered with the countrys markets regulator and abide by its disclosure requirements. Most of the 10,800 FPIs are funds.

Non-resident Indians (NRI) can invest in the Indian stock market through the portfolio investment scheme and transactions are routed through a non-resident ordinary (NRO) savings account. The overall investment limit for NRIs and any person of Indian origin (PIO) in stocks is 10% of the companys paid-up capital. Individual investment is capped at 5%.

NRIs cannot engage in intra-day trading, they have to take delivery of shares and cant trade derivatives.

Investment options for UK Investors

For UK investors, funds and investment trusts might be the most sensible option to capitalise on the Indian stock market, which has overtaken Hong Kong as the fourth largest in the world.

These provide diversified exposure to Indian markets and are managed by professional fund managers. Some popular options include:

JPMorgan Indian Investment Trust ( JII.L ): This trust aims to provide long-term capital growth by investing in a diversified portfolio of Indian equities.

Aberdeen New India Investment Trust ( ANII.L ): Focuses on long-term capital growth through investments in Indian companies, leveraging Aberdeens expertise in Asian markets.

Franklin India Fund ( 0P0000W9XO.L ): A mutual fund that invests in a broad range of Indian equities across various sectors.

iShares MSCI India ETF ( INDA ): An exchange-traded fund that tracks the performance of the MSCI India Index, providing broad exposure to Indian large- and mid-cap companies.

Jupiter India Fund (0P0001JKIB.L) - A diverse fund with 82 holdings spread across the financial services, healthcare, consumer, energy and industrial sectors.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Liverpool Street Station, the busiest station in the UK, is at the centre of major development plans (Getty)

Liverpool Street Station is set to strip back its advertising boards by more than 75 per cent, throwing out old posters in favour of new, modern digital displays and more information screens.

Government rail company Network Rail has submitted a new planning application to remove dozens of adverts across the concourse and platforms of the UKs busiest railway station.

Network Rail has identified 148 advertising boards throughout the station, and hopes to reduce this number to as few as 34, according to a heritage statement report in Network Rails application.

The rail company says that stripping back the adverts is an attempt to further improve the experience of the millions of passengers who pass through Liverpool Street every year.

Our aim is to improve passengers' journeys through our station by installing additional information screens and replacing old advertising boards with modern digital displays, a Network Rail spokesperson told The Independent.

"Should we receive planning permission, we hope these changes will make travelling through Britain's busiest station a much smoother experience."

Alongside a better passenger experience, the applications heritage statement said that removing adverts would reveal covered-up walls and views across the 1870s train shed, which will have a heritage benefit.

In April, a major multi-million-pound plan was submitted to overhaul Liverpool Street station (Network Rail Property and ACME)

If approved, Liverpool Street will not be the first London station to revitalise the way it uses adverts around the station.

In October last year, Londons Euston station switched off a large advertising screen that overlooks the concourse as part of a plan to improve the station.

The plan was put in place following overcrowding issues, last-minute train announcements, and people rushing to platforms forced authorities to look at improving conditions.

To try to create a smoother experience passing through Euston, Network Rail later switched on its large overhead advertising board, but instead displayed live train travel updates for passengers.

At Liverpool Street, most of the existing displays are static posters, which Network Rail hopes to replace.

In total, 138 static posters will be removed and replaced with 17 digital advertising boards in new locations. A further seven static boards will be replaced with screens under a previously approved plan.

Some digital displays will appear at the end of the platforms, with an additional screen showing train departures, allowing passengers to see travel information and find their platform, which promises to improve passenger flow.

The overhaul of advertisements comes after a separate multi-million-pound proposal by Network Rail to redevelop Liverpool Street.

The company hopes to transform the station into a landmark gateway to the City of London that can accommodate over 200 million annual passengers.

The proposal includes eight new lifts, six new escalators, a wider concourse and step-free access across the station to enhance accessibility at Liverpool Street.

Increased ticket barriers, family toilets, cycle storage, cafes and pedestrian routes are also listed among the plans.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
The Washington DC national guard began deploying on the citys streets on Tuesday night, as the citys mayor toughened her response to Donald Trump taking control of the citys police force.

The unusual federalization of law enforcement in the US capital began a day after the president ordered the troops arrival, calling Washington DC a lawless city, despite official crime statistics saying otherwise, a White House official confirmed.

Muriel Bowser, the Democratic mayor of Washington, hardened her stance on Tuesday night after treading a more diplomatic line earlier in the day. During a live town hall type event on social media on Tuesday night, she described the arrival of federalized national guard as an authoritarian push.

Bowser called on DC residents and voters to overcome Trumps move and urged them to protect our city, to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule and get to the other side of this guy and make sure we elect a Democratic House so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push.

Defense officials had earlier said a small number of the roughly 800 guard members planned for the mission had already been mobilized by Tuesday afternoon, with more expected to arrive in the coming days.

About 850 officers and agents took part in a massive law enforcement surge across Washington DC on Monday night and made nearly two dozen arrests, the White House has said. The violent crime rate in Washington DC is at a 30-year low.

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday: As part of the presidents massive law enforcement surge, last night approximately 850 officers and agents were surged across the city. They made a total of 23 arrests, including multiple other contacts.

The arrests consisted of homicide, firearms offences, possession with intent to distribute narcotics, fare evasion, lewd acts and stalking, Leavitt added. A total of six illegal handguns were seized off of District of Columbias streets as part of last nights effort.

Leavitt added: This is only the beginning. Over the course of the next month, the Trump administration will relentlessly pursue and arrest every violent criminal in the district who breaks the law, undermines public safety and endangers law-abiding Americans.

The press secretary also told reporters that homeless people have the option to be taken to a homeless shelter and offered addiction and mental health services. If they refuse, they will be susceptible to fines or to jail time. These are pre-existing laws that are already on the books. They have not been enforced.

Trumps intervention has been widely condemned as an authoritarian power grab that undermines the autonomy of Washingtons DC local government and seeks to distract attention from political problems such as the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Bowser had earlier pledged to work side by side with the federal government as national guard troops arrived at their headquarters in the capital.

Speaking after a meeting with the attorney general, Pam Bondi, at the justice department, Bowser told reporters: You will see the Metropolitan police department (MPD) working side by side with our federal partners in order to enforce the effort that we need around the city.

On Tuesday night she pushed back harder against Trumps couching of Washington DC as a city afflicted with crime and homelessness to the point that it is a crisis requiring federal intervention.

Bowser said the issue of homeless people on some DC streets triggers something in Trump that has him believing that our very beautiful city is dirty, which it is not.

She went on, referring to the population of the city, which itself is small despite supporting a massive federal workforce in the region: We are not 700,000 scumbags and punks.

Bowser has up to now cultivated a delicate working relationship with Trump since his return to power in January, avoiding direct confrontations when possible.

She said after the meeting with Bondi: What Im focused on is the federal surge and how to make the most of the additional officer support that we have. We have the best in the business at MPD and chief Pamela Smith to lead that effort and to make sure that the men and women who are coming from federal law enforcement are being well used and that, if there is national guard here, that theyre being well used and all in an effort to drive down crime.

Other Democratic mayors across the country had warned Trump against expanding his law and order power grab in other major cities.

Trump told reporters on Monday: We have other cities also that are bad, citing the Democratic strongholds of Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. And then, of course, you have Baltimore and Oakland. You dont even mention them any more, theyre so far gone.

Related: Hyperbolic and false: Trumps portrayal of crime in Washington DC has little to do with facts

Stephen Miller, an influential White House deputy chief of staff, stepped up the rhetoric on Tuesday, tweeting without evidence: Crime stats in big blue cities are fake. The real rates of crime, chaos & dysfunction are orders of magnitude higher. Everyone who lives in these areas knows this. They program their entire lives around it. Democrats are trying to unravel civilization. Pres Trump will save it.

All five cities named by Trump are run by Black mayors. Most were outspoken in denouncing the presidents move. Brandon Johnson, Chicagos mayor, said in a statement: Sending in the national guard would only serve to destabilize our city and undermine our public safety efforts.

Brandon Scott, the mayor of Baltimore, said: When it comes to public safety in Baltimore, he should turn off the rightwing propaganda and look at the facts. Baltimore is the safest its been in over 50 years.

Barbara Lee, the mayor of Oakland, wrote on X: President Trumps characterization of Oakland is wrong and based in fear-mongering in an attempt to score cheap political points.

Karen Bass, the mayor of Los Angeles, where troops were sent earlier this month in a crackdown on protests, posted: Another experiment by the Administration, another power grab from local government. This is performative. This is a stunt. It always has been and always will be.

Trump took command of the Washington DC police department and deployed the national guard under laws and constitutional powers that give the federal government more sway over the nations capital than other cities. But Democrats raised concerns that Washington DC could be a blueprint for similar strong-arm tactics elsewhere.

Californias governor, Gavin Newsom, warned that Trump will gaslight his way into militarising any city he wants in America.

JB Pritzker, the governor of Illinois, said the president has absolutely no right and no legal ability to send troops into the city of Chicago, and so I reject that notion.

Coral Murphy Marcos and Joanna Walters contributed reporting
The titular character is a British-Indian man named Sood

A Bollywood-inspired adaptation of A Christmas Carol will feature a refugee-despising Ebenezer Scrooge, the director has revealed.

The modern-day musical, based on the Charles Dickens 1843 novella, will feature the titular character as a British-Indian man named Sood.

Gurinder Chadha said in her directors statement: Our Scrooge, called Sood, is a rich British Indian who despises poor people and refugees in particular.

Sood has decided that immense wealth brings him status and standing, so to hell with the poor, unemployed and disenfranchised who didnt work as hard as him to get where he is.

Ms Chadha, who is well-known for Bend It Like Beckham and Bride & Prejudice, suggested the inspiration for her film came from well-known faces in British politics, saying: Sounds familiar to some of our current British Indian politicians?

Kunal Nayyar, who plays Sood, is known for his role as Raj Koothrappali on the US sitcom The Big Bang Theory - Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

The film, titled Christmas Karma and slated for release in November 2025, is described in a press release as a celebration of all of modern Britains communities and cultures.

The London-set musical is very true to the original text and sentiment, according to Ms Chadha, and will teach audiences the urgent lesson of how prejudice, poverty and division in all its forms shapes Sood and our society today.

The British-Indian director added: A hundred and eighty-two years later, Dickens novella still resonates globally in todays sometimes harsh world.

The novella is a tale of redemption, which follows Scrooge as he meets a supernatural reckoning. Ms Chadha writes that it is the authors plea for a kinder, more tolerant Britain.

Playing the protagonist in the upcoming film is Kunal Nayyar, known for his role as Raj Koothrappali on the US sitcom The Big Bang Theory.

He is joined by Boy George as the Ghost of Christmas Future, Eva Longoria as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Hugh Bonneville as the Ghost of Jacob Marley and Billy Porter as the Ghost of Christmas Present.

Boy George, left, is the Ghost of Christmas Future and Danny Dyer will play a London cabbie

Danny Dyer, the EastEnders actor, will also feature in the musical as a London cabbie.

Ms Chadha described the film as her ode to Dickens and Italian-American director Frank Capra  who made Its a Wonderful Life  but with a contemporary twist.

She said she was also inspired by one of her family members who was a Ugandan refugee.

He came to Britain around Christmas time having lost his home in Uganda as a child and arriving to a hostile welcome as a refugee, she said.

For years he didnt feel Christmas was for him and the hardships he faced as a child left him despising it.

Billy Porter will play the Ghost of Christmas Present, while Hugh Bonneville, right, is the Ghost of Jacob Marley

The films soundtrack has been influenced by gospel, Christmas carols, traditional music of Punjab, as well as rap and classic pop.

Ms Chadha said that she hopes the audience will be invested to beg [Sood] to move on, transform and be part of a society that doesnt allow Scrooges, twisted and shaped by prejudice to grow.

She added: It is an affectionate, hopeful, musical celebration of the Britain of today and the future for our kids.

It marks the latest in a series of controversial takes on the authors novels.

In 2023, Steven Knight, the Peaky Blinders creator, adapted Dickens 1861 novel Great Expectations into a six-part series for the BBC that featured mental health issues, prison breaks, toxic relationships, recreational drug use and self-harm.

The limited historical drama series, which rates at a low 5.4 on IMDb, also featured an expletive-laden script and an ethnically diverse cast.

Mr Knight also created a bold retelling of A Christmas Carol in 2019, which shocked period purists with its radical and horror-filled narrative.

The BBC helmed another controversial adaptation of Dickenss work when it filmed Bleak House in the style of a television soap opera in 2005.

Andrew Davies, who wrote the adaptations 16 episodes, said at the time that he hoped to attract a younger audience to the classic tale by highlighting the novels sexual themes and stripping away its Victorian sentimentality.
Credit: X / @DeepRobotics_CN

From a distance, you might be fooled into thinking this rare Chinese antelope is real  until it starts walking, when its rigid gait betrays it as motor and metal masquerading as flesh and blood.

But luckily this doesnt seem to put off the herds of real animals on the rugged tundra where the robot ungulate has been deployed.

The Xinhua news agency reported that, having successfully joined a group, the cyber antelope is doing its job of gathering valuable information about the migration, feeding and mating behaviours of the endangered species, endemic to Tibet.

Developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Hangzhou-based DEEP Robotics, the robot antelope is equipped with 5G connectivity and artificial intelligence vision systems, enabling real-time monitoring of its environment.

The robot approaching the Tibetan antelope herd, sending data on the far-ranging and remote animals back to conservationists

Its handlers hope it will succeed where humans and camera traps struggle in gathering more precise and reliable footage and data to better protect the wildlife.

The antelope can operate at a distance of up to two kilometres in open terrain and navigate rugged slopes and muddy wetlands, Meng Yuan, a DEEP Robotics representative, told the Global Times on Monday.

Lian Xinming, the projects head and a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told Xinhua: The robots AI vision recognition system can capture real-time data on the antelopes migration patterns, feeding behaviours and the growth of their young.

This data is then transmitted via 5G networks to a backend platform for instant analysis, generating detailed reports that offer valuable insights for scientific research and conservation efforts.

The robots internal operating system is concealed by a realistic outer coating

Tibetan antelopes, also known as chiru, are a small species native to the Qinghai-Xizang plateau.

The area is one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, with the average annual temperature reaching below freezing and winter temperatures liable to drop below -40C.

The chiru have adapted to the conditions thanks to their thick, woolly coats and underfur that is among the lightest and warmest in the world.

A shawl made from their wool can sell for 11,000 and might require the hides of three to five antelope to produce. To obtain the fur the antelope have to be killed.

With rising demand for their fur over the years, the numbers of the animals have plummeted.

The population was estimated at as many as 1,000,000 or more at the beginning of the 20th century. By the mid-1990s, numbers had fallen to less than 75,000, mainly because of poaching.
David Lammy posted on X that JD Vance gave him fishing tips, Kentucky-style - WPA Pool/Getty Images

The Foreign Secretary could be fined more than 2,000 after fishing with JD Vance without a licence.

David Lammy was photographed fishing alongside the US vice-president during the second familys stay at Chevening House this weekend.

The Telegraph understands Mr Lammy did not possess a rod licence  which is a requirement in England and Wales  meaning he could be fined up to 2,500 by the Environment Agency.

It is understood the Foreign Secretary was able to purchase a licence retroactively  despite Defras own website outlining that they must be purchased before the activity itself takes place.

Mr Lammy himself has admitted the error was an administrative oversight and has written to the Environment Agency to notify them of the mistake.

The agency has failed to confirm if Mr Lammy could be fined, or if a member of the public could also apply for a rod licence retroactively.

Labour should apologise

An Environment Agency spokesman said: Everyone who goes fishing needs a licence to help improve our rivers, lakes and the sport anglers love.

We understand the relevant licences have been purchased.

In February 2025, in a press release announcing a crackdown on unlicensed anglers, Richard Tyner, the area fisheries team leader at the Environment Agency, said the agency will always prosecute those caught cheating the system.

The release said that 6 anglers were taken to Barkingside magistrates court, where they were fined.

The agency said that unlicensed fishing poses a risk to fish stocks and can often cost anglers the species they care about.

In January 2025, a separate release saw the agency announce that buying a rod licence is not expensive and theres no excuse for not having one.

Licences to fish in the UK range from 7.30 to 13.50 for a day permit.

A Labour source told the Telegraph that there was nothing fishy to see here and added: He landed a big diplomatic catch getting the Vice President to stay for the weekend at Chevening. As soon as he learned of the administrative error he got the relevant licences and notified the Environment Agency to avoid getting caught up.

A source within the Conservative Party told The Telegraph: As per usual with Labour its one rule for them and another for everyone else. Why is it acceptable for the Foreign Secretary to break the rules, but no one else?

Rather than making jokes about how the Foreign Secretary has potentially embarrassed one of our closest and most important allies, perhaps Labour should issue an apology at once.

Feargal Sharkey, the musician and campaigner, posted on X: You go fishing anywhere in England, by law you need a licence. There are no exceptions.

It is understood both the Foreign Secretary and vice-president returned any fish they caught to the lake.

Mr Lammy joined Mr Vance for talks during the vice-presidents summer break in Britain

Mr Lammy previously said that no one was above the law in a tweet in September 2019, referencing senior Conservative government ministers.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, in April 2022, he also tweeted that Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak must resign now for breaking the laws they enforced on us all.

Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform, called for Mr Lammy to take his own advice and resign.



He added: The Foreign Secretary has been caught hook, line and sinker breaking the law. Ordinary anglers would have reeled in thousands in fines, but under Labours two-tier system David Lammy is able to let himself off the hook.

An administrative error

A spokesman for the Foreign Office said: The Foreign Secretary has written to the Environment Agency over an administrative oversight that meant the appropriate licences had not been acquired for fishing on a private lake as part of a diplomatic engagement at Chevening House last week.

As soon as the Foreign Secretary was made aware of the administrative error, he successfully purchased the relevant rod fishing licences. He also wrote to the Environment Agency notifying them of the error, demonstrating how it would be rectified, and thanking them for their work protecting Britains fisheries.

On the day of the fishing trip, Mr Lammy said on X that the vice-president gave him fishing tips, Kentucky-style, accompanying the post with an image of the two of them fishing.

Mr Vance is in the UK on a summer holiday, which has attracted backlash including from Jeremy Clarkson, who joined Cotswold residents in suggesting the high-security visit had interrupted the filming of Clarksons Farm.

The Vance family holiday has seen the vice-president meet several political figures, including Mr Lammy, and there are plans for him to meet Robert Jenrick, the former Tory leadership contender, and Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform.

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Reid surveying the newly completed Scottish Parliament debating chamber in 2004: a convert from Labour, he was never insular in his nationalism - James Fraser

Sir George Reid, who has died aged 86, was an award-winning broadcaster who became a Scottish Nationalist MP, international publicity director for the Red Cross, a founder member of the revived Scottish Parliament, its Presiding Officer from 2003 to 2007, and in 2022 a Knight of the Thistle.

As head of news and current affairs at STV, Gorgeous George Reid was a household name across central Scotland when he was chosen as an SNP candidate three weeks before the February 1974 election. His chances seemed slim, but the surge of SNP support as Edward Heath lost power propelled him and six colleagues to Westminster.

His skills as a communicator proved valuable as the SNP gained further seats that October; he then, as its devolution spokesman, kept up the pressure on Harold Wilson and James Callaghan to deliver a Scottish assembly with meaningful powers.

While insisting such an assembly must be a stepping-stone to independence, Reid  a convert from Labour who was never insular in his nationalism  kept pushing an at times reluctant government until devolution was on the statute book. He then  alongside most Nationalists and the bulk of the Labour Party  campaigned for a Yes vote in the March 1979 referendum.

When the referendum proved inconclusive  51.6 per cent in favour but a turnout well below the 40 per cent threshold set at Westminster  Reid demanded that Callaghan bring in the assembly anyway. When he refused, the SNP tabled a motion of no-confidence.

Margaret Thatcher, seeing an opportunity to get a tired Labour government out of office, took over the motion, and after an electrifying debate in which Callaghan warned the SNP they were turkeys voting for an early Christmas, Labour was defeated by one vote. In the ensuing election, Reid and all but two of his colleagues lost their seats.

It was 20 years before he returned to elective politics, as an MSP after Tony Blairs government had got its devolution plans through following a further referendum. Reid became deputy presiding officer to Sir David Steel, and when the former Liberal leader stood down after the parliaments first term he was elected unopposed to succeed him.

Steel had from a standing start given the office of Presiding Officer a degree of authority, and Reid developed this further. In particular, he led the creation of a Scottish Futures Forum, to promote cross-party strategic thinking.

George Newlands Reid was born at Tullibody, in the tiny county of Clackmannan, on June 4 1939, the son of George Reid, a company director, and the former Margaret Forsyth.

From Dollar Academy he took a First in History at St Andrews University, being president of the Students Representative Council. He continued his studies in Switzerland, and at Union College in New York state.

Reid joined the Scottish Daily Express in 1962 as a feature writer, after two years switching to television as a reporter with STV. In 1965 he moved to Manchester as a producer with Granada, arousing comment for his firmness in keeping candidates to the point during the 1966 election.

From 1968 he was STVs head of news and current affairs, producing more than 200 documentaries including Contract 736, about the construction of the QE2, which was awarded an Emmy.

Reid had joined the Labour Party in 1958, but in 1973 he switched to the SNP as its support began to swell after the discovery of North Sea oil. Selected late on to fight Stirlingshire East & Clackmannan, he defeated the Labour MP Dick Douglas by 3,610 votes.

At Westminster he became the SNPs spokesman on health, housing and social services, but within weeks he was fighting to save his old paper. When Express Newspapers announced the closure of its Glasgow operation to cut costs, Reid declared that with a circulation of 550,000 the Scottish Daily Express was more successful than the Manchester and London editions.

Having more than a single Nationalist MP was a novelty for Westminster, and the group  increased to 11 that October  not only made its presence felt, but is remembered for a whisky-fuelled social life in which Reid played his full part. He also served on the UK delegation to the Council of Europe.

Increasing his majority to 7,341, he was made the SNPs spokesman on devolution. Labours formidable Scottish Secretary Willie Ross had previously opposed any form of home rule, but the SNPs gains at the two elections forced Wilson into a U-turn.

Reid was sure that Labour would try to get away with as little devolution as it could, and drag its feet. So he demanded a timetable for the first elections to a Scottish Assembly, and called for it to have real power over nationalised industries, Government ministries in Scotland, employment, social services and oil, insisting: The dignity of Scotland demands a Scottish Prime Minister and a Scottish Cabinet.

Reid repeatedly accused Wilson of breaking his commitments, and when Labours devolution White Paper appeared in November 1975, declared: The people of Scotland expect to be disappointed. They did not expect to be insulted.

With legislation on the way through, he warned presciently that devolution would not be a settlement but a continuing process. Where it stops will be decided only by the people of Scotland.

When the referendum finally came, a clerical error led to Reid and his wife being given two votes each: one for their house in Glasgow and one for its garage.

In the May 1979 election triggered by the no-confidence vote, Reid lost his seat to the future Labour minister Martin ONeill by 984 votes  one of the SNPs least bad results.

He returned to broadcasting, presenting Agenda for BBC Scotland and in 1980 scripting a BBC Two documentary chronicling the theft of the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey by nationalist students in the 1950s.

Reid also produced the now-famous reportage by Michael Buerk of the Ethiopian famine of 1984 that inspired the Band Aid and Live Aid charity campaigns. This led to his being headhunted by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent.

He spent 12 years with the global humanitarian organisation in Geneva, as its head of information, director of public affairs and finally director of its International Campaign for Victims of War. He worked worldwide in conflict and disaster zones.

Notably, he headed the international relief effort in Armenia following an earthquake in 1988 which killed up to 50,000 people and left 130,000 needing medical attention. His efforts, and those of his team, were recognised with the Gold Medal of the Supreme Soviet of Armenia and the Pirogov Gold Medal of the USSR.

Campaigning in Blairlogie, 2003 - James Fraser

With devolution under a Labour government again in prospect, Reid re-entered Scottish politics at the 1995 SNP conference, drawing on his knowledge of European politics to argue how the party could prosper if a Scottish Parliament were established. Labours Shadow Scottish Secretary, George Robertson, had claimed that devolution would kill the SNP stone dead; to this Reid replied: Ho, ho, ho.

At the 1997 election he fought Ochil, essentially his former seat, limiting ONeills majority to 4,652. As a fresh referendum brought an overwhelming Yes vote and the Bill establishing a Scottish Parliament went through, he served, as the SNPs vice-convenor, on its pre-establishment Consultative Steering Group.

At the first Holyrood elections in 1999, Reid was elected as a list MSP for Mid-Scotland & Fife. At the opening of the Parliament, Steel defeated him 82-44 to become its first Presiding Officer; Reid became one of Steels deputies.

Steel stood down at the 2003 election, when Reid was returned as constituency MSP for Ochil. Elected unopposed as Presiding Officer, he was made a privy counsellor in 2004; he also became convenor of the Scottish Parliamentary Bureau and the Scottish Parliament corporate body.

The corporate body had had since Donald Dewars Labour administration a chequered reputation because of the explosion of the cost of the parliaments futuristic building. At its opening in 2004, Reid paid tribute to it as an architectural achievement, and urged parliamentarians to listen to the building to inspire them in their endeavours.

Queen Elizabeth II flanked by George Reid, Presiding Officer (right), and First Minister Jack McConnell (left) for the start of the ceremonies to mark the opening of the Scottish Parliament in 2004 - Andy Barr/PA

Reid, while Presiding Officer, won the Heralds Scottish Politician of the Year award in 2003 and 2005, the first person to do so twice; this was followed in 2013 by a lifetime achievement award.

He chose in 2007 not to seek re-election as Presiding Officer or as an MSP. Out of office, he was appointed a visiting professor at Glasgow and Stirling universities; led a review of the administration of the Northern Ireland Assembly; and conducted an internal governance review for the National Trust for Scotland. He also joined the EUs Caucasus-Caspian diplomatic commission, and from 2010 to 2014 served on the Electoral Commission.

In 2013 he underwent major surgery for bladder cancer. He resigned all his positions, then made a good recovery.

Reid was at various times president of the Royal Commonwealth Society Scotland, patron of the Scottish Disability Equality Forum, chair of the Scottish Press Awards, vice-chairman of the Carnegie Commission on Civil Society, and a trustee of the Edinburgh International Tattoo.

He was appointed Lord-Lieutenant for Clackmannanshire in 2007, and in 2008 and 2009 served as Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Sovereigns personal representative. He was knighted in 2012, and made a Knight of the Thistle by Queen Elizabeth II three months before her death.

George Reid married first, in 1963, Catherine Stott (later womens editor of The Sunday Telegraph) and, secondly, in 1968, Daphne McColl, who survives him along with a daughter. Another daughter predeceased him.

Sir George Reid, born June 4 1939, died August 12 2025
Pope Leo XIV just approved several new measures that make labor improvements for parents and caregivers working in the Vatican.

These involve paternity leave, the rights of parents with children who are incapacitated or have a severe disability, and the granting of family allowances. Some of the new provisions are five days paid leave for Vatican employees on the birth of a child and three paid days each month for parents of disabled children.

Labor Improvements in the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV approved the document, which was signed by the Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy, Maximino Caballero Ledo. During the pope's audience with Caballero on July 28, the latter presented to the pope the resolutions of the ULSA Council, which is an organization made up of representatives of various entities of the Holy See and the Governorate.

Other new measures in the Rescript amend certain paragraphs of the Consolidated Text of Benefits in Favour of the Family and the Rules for the Granting of the Family Allowance. The document noted that the five days of paid leave on the birth of a child may be taken consecutively and/or in full-day increments within no more than 30 days from the event, according to the Vatican News.

Additionally, the document noted that the working father is entitled to "full pay, counted in all respects related to length of service." On the other hand, families with children who are "in a situation of certified severity" will be given three days of paid leave each month, usable by the parents.

Paid Days Off

It said that these days of paid leave may also be taken consecutively, but only provided the child is not fully hospitalized in specialized institutions. The Rescript also specifies that the clinical assessment of disability and the determination of its severity are carried out by a Medical Board, Exaudi reported.

Another measure in the document is the updated family subsidy, where the requirements for receiving this particular benefit have been specified. These include adult children being eligible while pursuing secondary school, up to 20 years of age.

The Rescript redefines the concepts of disability and incapacity, specifying that the assessment will be carried out by a Vatican Medical Association, whose decision will be "without appeal." The last major inclusion of the document is the facilitation of assistance to family members with disabilities, where the time off cannot be used to work another job, as per the Catholic News Agency.
(Ross Lydall/Evening Standard)

If I had a pound for every developer, designer or official who told me that a bridge, office, home or factory must be ugly because its all we can afford, reader, I would be a rich man. But what they tell you is a lie: ugliness is always a choice.

What infrastructure looks like is back in the news thanks to a delightful new railway bridge (not a phrase normally heard) designed by ADAM Architecture for the Duchy of Cornwall.

Clad in local granite, it arches elegantly over the track, is gently buttressed and has an artfully shaped keystone. It already sits easily in the landscape and once the trees have regrown will appear always to have been there. It will improve this corner of Cornwall just as so many cottages, church spires, railway arches and cathedrals have enhanced the English landscape for centuries.

So heartless are most modern buildings that we have come to assume that development is the cause of ugliness. Only 2% of the public trust new buildings to improve their area. Theyre usually right. Douglas Adams wrote; Airports are ugly. Some are very ugly. Some attain a degree of ugliness that can only be the result of special effort. The same could be said of most of our public infrastructure over 80 years.

Take Londons new water fountains: crass, cartoonish and clashing with their surroundings. They shout at their neighbourhood. The redesigned station at Old Street roundabout, has been described, rightly, as a soulless hell hole. And not just by me.

New railway stations, such as Thanet Parkway, are value-engineered to a comatose bleakness that dispirits the mind, dissuades passengers and degrades the very trains that serve them. They are uncivil and anti-social.

Consider our hospitals: noble institutions serving a noble purpose. They should offer attractive, uplifting, calming environments, settings we now empirically know help recovery. Yet most modern hospitals are monolithically grim. They are visually and mentally stressful. Londons University College Hospital was shortlisted for the Carbuncle Cup  a prize awarded to the ugliest building in the UK completed in the last 12 months.

When defending such loveless lumps, modernists deploy three arguments which we might term the cost, function and doubt arguments. Each is nonsense.

First, cost. Were told that we cannot afford to make things look nice. But the expense of ornament or better materials is negligible compared to the overall cost of large infrastructure. The big money is in structural engineering, logistics, planning, traffic delays. Aesthetic upgrades will normally add less than 1%, and rarely more than 5%, to total costs. If we unpicked our Byzantine planning system (the most unpredictable in the west) we could save far more.

The new granite bridge and accompanying causeway in Cornwall, for example, cost 11.8m. The extra cost of the granite cladding probably came to about 2.5%, a modest sum for a bridge that is generous to its landscape  rather than insulting.

Meanwhile, Londons ugly water fountains cost 100,000 each. Old Streets incoherent mess was 132m. Developers are proposing to spend 7.5bn on a pitiless new Euston Station design that  lets be honest  only a mother could love. We excel at creating ugliness, and its always at great expense.

Secondly, function. The modernist creed (todays prevalent architectural movement rejecting decoration and history and favouring abstraction and industrial materials) dictates that beauty must give way to utility, that form follows function and that ornament is a crime. Beauty should emerge from honest structures that function efficiently. Occasionally it does, especially in the natural world. Think of a leopard leaping.

But in the built environment, many most loved features serve no structural purpose: the mosaics of Islamic tilework, the non-load-bearing pilasters, the stone filigree of a Gothic screen. We travel to see cities like Rome, Venice or Paris precisely because of such useless detail. And people routinely pay more, 15% more in one large and controlled study, for homes they find more attractive in streets which are in traditional styles. The function of avoiding ugliness is simple: it makes us happy. Thats a purpose.

Finally, doubt. Were told that beauty is in the eye of beholder, that one mans modernism is another anothers Palladianism. The facts disagree. Over ten years, the social enterprise I founded, Create Streets, has developed a rigorous methodology for visual preference surveys. Across countries, political views and age groups, super majorities (typically 70-80%) consistently favour buildings that show care, coherence and a sense of place: local materials, depth and detail, symmetry, variety within a pattern. Not formless chaos but not sterile spreadsheet architecture either. In an era of division, beautiful places can unite us.

Not only are the arguments in favour of ugliness weak, theyre becoming weaker. Modern technology is revolutionising the cost and speed of ornament. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines now carve stone, wood or plaster with astonishing efficiency. LIDAR and photogrammetry scan historic ornament for reproduction. The result? Moulding and carving costs have sometimes dropped by up to 90%. Ornament has never been cheaper.

We need to reinvent how we design our public buildings and infrastructure so that it is normal for a railway bridge or station to be charming. We should start with Euston Station. Few of the last centurys civic structures touch the public soul. Few will be mourned, let alone standing, in 100 years. We must embed public preferences unshakeably in the selection and design process. Instead of closed-loop design competitions, judged by designers for other designers, we must ask: what do people love? Where do they want to be?

Nothing in law, economics or physics prevents us creating a new Euston Station which is not ugly, with thousands of adjoined homes and with a roof soaring heavenwards. Ugliness is always a choice. Lets stop making it.

Nicholas Boys Smith is the founder and chair of Create Streets.
The Beckham Family Feud has evolved, like a tabloid-fuelled Pokemon, from a tale of alleged battling brothers to another ancient paradigm: the warring mother and daughter-in-law.

Sources close to Nicola Peltz-Beckham recently briefed TMZ that she thinks her mother-in-law Victoria Beckham is toxic and "narcissistic"  TikTok pop psychology terms du jour  whose crimes allegedly include trying to steal her first dance with Brooklyn Beckham at their wedding and refusing to share a post about her dog sanctuary on Instagram.

In return, sources claiming to be close to the senior Beckhams briefed the Mail that Victoria thinks Nicola is a narcissist who has love-bombed Brooklyn and cut him off from his family  and rudely didnt wear a dress from her mother-in-laws fashion line at said wedding.

These are some very strong terms poached from psychologys understanding of abusive relationships and personality disorders that really shouldnt be bandied around willy-nilly, but I digress. According to reports, Victoria and Nicola have fallen into a well-established archetype: women who dont get along with their female relations by marriage.

I dont have a mother-in-law, but I do know a lot about the bad ones because I like to lurk in one of the most lurid corners of the internet: r/JUSTNOMIL (spelt out, this is: Just No, Mother-in-Law).

This is the Reddit forum for women who have discovered, often too late, that they have married a man whose mother is on a mission to cause some truly deranged family drama. The just no is what you might mutter as you witness your mother-in-law try to wear white to your wedding, or burst into the delivery suite to see her grandchild crowning.

Theres some extreme familial dysfunction on display on that subreddit, but at nearly two million members you can see how many people across many different cultures struggle to mediate family relationships when the younger generation adds a new life partner to the mix. If things were already screwy, it can really bring those problems to the surface.

If theres an issue to settle with his parents, it should be up to Brooklyn to solve it

While this celebrity family fall-out seems to be happening on a grand scale (the Beckhams are a brand, as well as a family) and in full view of the press, the complaints that mothers have about their sons wives and vice versa are, literally, tales as old as time.

History and literature is littered with women beefing with their in-laws. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite did not take kindly to Psyche for a) marrying her son Eros and b) threatening her famed beauty, so set her a series of impossible tasks. And Charles Perrault's 17th-century fairy tales had Sleeping Beauty survive the curse, only for her new mother-in-law attempt to have her children cooked up sauce for dinner.

So is Posh an enmeshed and overbearing mother who cant bear to let her adult son make his own life with a woman his own age? Or is Nicola a conniving usurper (and an American to boot!) trying to steal her husband away from his loving family? Who is the true goddess of beauty and who wants to engage in eating babies?

When you boil it down, these stories take flight because of sexism, with a little bit of ageism thrown in for good measure. Blaming everything on the women in the situation seems a bit rich given there are fathers- and brothers-in-law too.

The beautiful pop princess of a bygone era, apparently challenged by the 20-years-younger glamorous heiress. An older woman whose marriage has survived affair allegations versus a younger one who refuses to spend a night apart from her husband. If we believe the tales, two women at different stages of life fighting over some guy because they birthed him/married him.

If theres an issue to settle with his parents, it should be up to Brooklyn to solve it, rather than everyone blaming his wife or his mother.

Sure, theres a generational gap to bridge between the Beckham parents and Nicola and Brooklyn. Change is always tricky for families to adjust to, even if youre in the highest tax bracket. Maybe the tit-for-tat narcissist accusations could be dialled down, for starters.

India Block is a London Standard columnist
Priscilla Presleys ex-business partners accused her of pulling Lisa Maries life-support to get control of family name

Priscilla Presleys former business partners accused her of withdrawing her daughter Lisa Marie Presleys life-saving medication to get control of family name, a bombshell lawsuit alleges.

The 80-year-old former wife of Elvis Presley ultimately wanted to control her daughters trust and Graceland, according to the suit, obtained by The Independent. Priscilla Presleys lawyer labeled the complaint as malicious character assassination.

Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko, the heads of Priscilla Presley Partners, are suing her for breach of contract and fraud; theyre seeking at least $50 million.

Lisa Marie Presley was hospitalized in 2023 after suffering a cardiac arrest. She died in January 2023 at the age of 54.

Her mother was aware that she was preparing to remove her as the sole head of her trust and pulled the plug within hours of Lisa being admitted to the hospital, the suit alleges.

Priscilla Presley is sued by her former business partners, who accused Elvis ex-wife of pulling her daughters life support to gain control of the family name and estate in a $50 million lawsuit (Invision/AP)

Priscilla knew that Lisas death neutralized the threat of Lisas efforts to have Priscilla removed as the sole trustee of Lisas irrevocable life insurance trust, and Priscilla ultimately wanted to control the Promenade Trust and Graceland, the filing says. At her house the following week, Priscilla exclaimed, Im the queen. Im in charge of Graceland.'

Marty Singer, Presleys lawyer, slammed the lawsuit as meritless in a statement.

This is, without a doubt, one of the most shameful, ridiculous, salacious, and meritless lawsuits I have seen in my practice. This is nothing more than a sad and vicious attempt to falsely tarnish the reputation of an eighty year old woman in blatant retaliation for bringing a lawsuit to redress the wrongful conduct of Brigitte Kruse, Kevin Fialko, and their co-conspirators.

Accusing a grieving mother of contributing to her daughters death is not savvy advocacy; it is malicious character assassination, and should be broadly condemned. These fabricated claims have absolutely no validity and we are confident this case will be dismissed, Singer continued.

Priscilla and Elvis divorced in 1973. The lawsuit claims that the divorce agreement states she was supposed to stop using the surname Presley and was not mentioned in the late singers will.

When Lisa Marie came into her inheritance in 1993, Elvis estate was valued at around $100 million, the filing says.

Lisa Marie was the sole heir to her fathers Memphis estate. Following her death, Priscilla filed a petition challenging a 2016 amendment to the trust, which had removed her as a trustee and instead listed two of Lisa Maries children  Riley Keough, an actress, and Benjamin Keough, who died in 2020  as co-trustees, the suit says.

Riley Keough, the star of Daisy Jones and the Six, has acted as sole trustee of the estate since August 2023.

The mother and daughter had a tumultuous and tenuous relationship, evidenced by Lisa Marie refusing to walk the red carpet or sit with her mother at the Golden Globes to celebrate the nominations for the 2022 Elvis movie, the lawsuit alleges. Around this time, Lisa Marie was threatening to sue Priscilla over the trust dispute.

Kruse and Fialko worked to keep the family together and, along with Priscillas publicist, ensured the pair sat together during the awards show, which occurred just two days after Lisa Marie died, the suit says.

Priscilla Presley (R) and her daughter Lisa Marie Presley (L). Lisa Marie died in 2023 after suffering cardiac arrest (AFP/Getty)

Authorities have not claimed any wrongdoing in Lisa Maries death. The LA County medical examiners autopsy report determined she had died from complications from surgery.

The obstruction was in the form of a strangulated small bowel caused by adhesions that developed after bariatric surgery years ago, the autopsy report said. This is a known long-term complication of this type of surgery.

Lisa Maries advanced care directive instructions said she wanted her life to be prolonged as long as possible within the limits of generally accepted health care standards, but Priscilla didnt adhere to her wishes, the filing says.

Riley Keough was then made the sole trustee. Priscilla then challenged the amendment that had removed her as trustee in a matter that was later settled.

On behalf of Presley, Kruse and Fialko brokered a deal with Keough that gave the grandmother a $2.4 million payout and a seven-figure deal for Priscillas son, Navarone, the complaint states.

The evidence will establish that the real victims here are my clients, who invested millions and years of hard work into revitalizing Priscilla Presleys brand, only to be betrayed and falsely accused once the money was on the table and every personal and business issue had been resolved, Jordan Matthews, an attorney for Kruse and Fialko, said in a statement.

This weeks complaint marks the latest in an ongoing legal battle between the former business partners.

In a 2023 lawsuit, Kruse alleged Priscilla abruptly cut off all communication after Kruse had helped Priscilla dig herself out of impending financial ruin, accused her of breach of contract and other wrongdoing, according to a filing obtained by Billboard.

Last July, Priscilla sued Kruse, Fialko and two other business partners, accusing them of elder abuse and fraud. The group meticulously planned a scheme to to drain her of every last penny she had, her lawyer alleged at the time.

From family feuds to fraudulent foreclosure sale claims, the future of Graceland has been a point of contention for years (AP)

For years, the future of Graceland has been a point of contention.

The King of Rock n Roll bought the Memphis estate in 1957. More than six decades later, fights over the fate of the estate have ensued.

Nearly one year after the legal battle between Priscilla and her granddaughter had settled, there was an attempted foreclosure auction on the estate.

A public notice for a foreclosure sale of the 13-acre estate in Memphis posted in May 2024 said the trust owes $3.8 million after failing to repay a 2018 loan. Keough then filed a lawsuit claiming the foreclosure was fraudulent and filed a lawsuit to halt it. A judge blocked the efforts to move forward with the foreclosure sale later that month.

In August 2024, federal authorities charged Lisa Jeanine Findley in connection with a scheme to defraud the Presley family.

She falsely claimed that Lisa Marie had pledged the historic landmark as collateral for a loan that she failed to repay before her death, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri said in a statement at the time. As part of the brazen scheme, we allege that the defendant created numerous false documents and sought to extort a settlement from the Presley family. Now she is facing federal charges.
Pictures show mattresses with buckets next to them from inside the retreat (Guardia Civil)

Police have seized several bottles of toad poison and 11 litres of the psychedelic drug ayahuasca during a series of raids at a spiritual retreat in eastern Spain.

Three people were arrested after the Guardia Civil swooped on two properties in a rural area of the town of Pedreguer, near Alicante, on Monday. Police found 945 Ritalin tablets, ayahuasca and bottles of toad venom at the properties, which belonged to a company promising to provide "astral journeys.

They also recovered 117 San Pedro cactus plants, which contain the psychoactive substance mescaline.

Officers began investigating the retreat after receiving a complaint from a victim five months ago, they said, leading detectives to a company advertising traditional healing medicine vacation packages using ayahuasca, San Pedro cactus, and Kambo toad venom.

Police said they found several bottles of toad venom (Guardia Civil)

Police said the company sold itself as an internationally renowned spiritual retreat organisation, attracting clients from all over the world.

Guests could choose between several different lengths of stay, accommodation, and substances, police said, with the average price per package exceeding 1,000, police said. They estimated the group had made several hundred thousand euros over the last year without declaring any income.

Several dozen beds were found set up in the rooms designated for "astral travel," where police said clients were simultaneously treated by six members of the group, who prepared and administered the substances and accompanied them throughout the process.

Pictures released by the Guardia Civil show a dozen mattresses on a tiled floor with buckets and boxes of tissues next to each bed. They added 16 clients were staying at the retreat at the time of the raids.

Police raided the property following a complaint from a victim (Guardia Civil)

Guardia Civil officers also uncovered a rudimentary and unhygienic home laboratory where substances were prepare. Ayahuasca, the San Pedro cactus, Kambo toad venom, harmala, and mimosa are naturally occurring substances with highly harmful effects on humans, they said.

Officers arrested three people, two men and a 33-year-old woman, considered the ringleaders of the group, company administrators, responsible for advertising the services, managing the finances, and preparing the substances for consumption, they said in a statement.

Five other people, three men and two women, who are believed to be the organisation's "spiritual guides," responsible for administering the substances and accompanying clients during drug use, have also been investigated.

All of them are charged with drug trafficking, money laundering, and membership in a criminal organisation. The seized substances have been sent to official laboratories for toxicity analysis.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putins meeting in Alaska on Friday will mark the latest chapter in the 49th state's long history with Russia.

Siberian fur traders arrived from across the Bering Sea in the early 18th century, and the imprint of Russian settlement in Alaska remains.

The oldest building in Anchorage is a Russian Orthodox church, and many Alaska Natives have Russian surnames.

The nations are so close that Alaskas Little Diomede Island in the Bering Strait is less than 3 miles (5 kilometres) from Russias Big Diomede. So former Governor Sarah Palin was right during the 2008 presidential race when she said, You can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska.

Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018 (AP)

Alaska has been U.S. territory since 1867, and was the location of the only World War II battle on North American soil, a focus of Cold War tensions and the site of occasional meetings between U.S. and world leaders.

Here's a look at Alaska's history with Russia and on the international stage:

Russian trappers and Seward's Folly

The fur traders established hubs in Sitka and on Kodiak Island. The Russian population in Alaska never surpassed about 400 permanent settlers, according to the Office of the Historian of the U.S. State Department.

Russian settlers brutally coerced Alaska Natives to harvest sea otters and other marine mammals for their pelts, said Ian Hartman, a University of Alaska Anchorage history professor.

It was a relationship that the Russians made clear quite early on was not really about kind of a longer-term pattern of settlement, but it was much more about a short-term pattern of extraction, Hartman said.

Gloriella Curtis holds up a river otter hide during the Fur Rendezvous annual auction in 2004 (AP)

Meanwhile, Russian Orthodox missionaries baptised an estimated 18,000 Alaska Natives.

By 1867, the otters had been hunted nearly to extinction, and Russia was broke from the Crimean War. Czar Alexander II sold Alaska to the U.S. for the low price of $7.2 million, knowing Russia couldn't defend its interests in Alaska if the U.S. or Great Britain tried to seize it.

Sceptics referred to the purchase as Seward's Folly, after U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward. That changed when gold was discovered in the Klondike in 1896.

World War II and the Cold War

The U.S. realised Alaska's strategic importance in the 20th century. During World War II, the island of Attu  the westernmost in the Aleutian chain and closer to Russia than to mainland North America  was captured by Japanese forces. The effort to reclaim it in 1943 became known as the war's forgotten battle.

During the Cold War, military leaders worried the Soviets might attack via Alaska, flying planes over the North Pole to drop nuclear weapons. They built a chain of radar systems connected to an anti-aircraft missile system.

American soldiers land on the black volcanic beach during World War II at Massacre Bay on Attu Island in 1943 (AP)

The military constructed much of the infrastructure in Alaska, including roads and some communities, and its experience building on permafrost later informed the private companies that would drill for oil and construct the trans-Alaska pipeline.

Last year, the Pentagon said the U.S. must invest more to upgrade sensors, communications and space-based technologies in the Arctic to keep pace with China and Russia, and it sent about 130 soldiers to a desolate Aleutian island amid an increase in Russian military planes and vessels approaching U.S. territory.

Past visits by dignitaries

Putin will be the first Russian leader to visit, but other prominent figures have come before him.

Japanese Emperor Hirohito stopped in Anchorage before heading to Europe in 1971 to meet President Richard Nixon, and in 1984, thousands turned out to see President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II meet at the airport in Fairbanks.

President Barack Obama visited in 2015, becoming the first sitting U.S. president to set foot north of the Arctic Circle, on a trip to highlight the dangers of climate change.

New Archangel Russian Dancers perform as part of the Alaska Day Festival celebrations in 2012 (AP)

Governor Bill Walker welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport in Anchorage in 2017 and then took him on a short tour of the states largest city.

Four years later, Anchorage was the setting for a less cordial meeting as top U.S. and Chinese officials held two days of contentious talks in their first face-to-face meeting since President Joe Biden took office two months earlier.

Critics say Alaska is a poor choice for the summit

Sentiment toward Russia in Alaska has cooled since Putin invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Anchorage Assembly voted unanimously to suspend its three-decade-long sister city relationship with Magadan, Russia, and the Juneau Assembly sent its sister city of Vladivostok a letter expressing concern.

The group Stand Up Alaska has organised rallies against Putin on Thursday and Friday.

The cemetery at St. Nicholas Church in Eklutna, Alaska, features a mixture of Russian Orthodox conventions (AP)

Dimitry Shein, who ran unsuccessfully for Alaskas lone seat in the U.S. House in 2018, fled from the Soviet Union to Anchorage with his mother in the early 1990s. He expressed dismay that Trump has grown increasingly authoritarian.

Russia and the U.S. are just starting to look more and more alike, he said.

Many observers have suggested that holding the summit in Alaska sends a bad symbolic message.

Its easy to imagine Putin making the argument during his meetings with Trump that, Well, look, territories can change hands, said Nigel Gould-Davies, former British Ambassador to Belarus and senior fellow at the International Institute of Strategic Studies in London. 'We gave you Alaska. Why cant Ukraine give us a part of its territory?'
A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 14 and 15, have been charged with the murder of a man in a seaside resort, Kent Police said.

Police were called to the Warden Bay Road area of Leysdown-on-Sea, on the Isle of Sheppey, shortly after 7pm on Sunday following a disturbance involving a small number of people.

Alexander Cashford, 49, was confirmed dead at the scene, with the force saying multiple injuries to his body were reported.

The three teenagers, who are all from London and were arrested soon afterwards, were charged with murder on Tuesday and remanded in custody to appear at Medway Magistrates Court on Wednesday. They cannot be named for legal reasons.

Police at the scene in Leysdown-on-Sea after Alexander Cashford died following an altercation (Stanley Murphy-Johns/PA Wire)

A 12-year-old girl, arrested on Tuesday in Basildon, Essex, is still in custody.

Detectives urged any witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police to contact them.

Residents in the area believe that during the altercation, Mr Cashford was pushed to the ground, and a stone or slab of concrete was dropped on his head.

Locals called the incident shocking with some saying that nothing ever happens in the area.
Donald Trump is meeting Vladimir Putin in Alaska in what the US president has said may be little more than a look see, but in truth may prove an encounter that defines Europe -and global security - for decades.

From Trumps perspective, the summit may be part of his drive for a Nobel Peace Prize by ending Putins war against Ukraine using the art of the deal. Putin, however, is likely to prevail and his agenda is the art of the steal  specifically a massive grab of his neighbours land.

Missing from the meeting is the country most affected  Ukraine itself. Led by Volodymyr Zelensky, it has held out against the Kremlin for 11 years.

Could Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin be about to seal Ukraines fate? (AP)

Trump, Putin, and many others (including parts of the media) seem to think that Ukraines future can be decided by the two nuclear powers and then presented to Kyiv as a done deal.

Europe, the region most affected by what happens in Ukraine, has worked hard to underline that that is neither true nor sensible  while simultaneously keeping the mercurial US president on side when every indication is that hes firmly in Russias camp.

Heres how things currently stand.

How Russia and Ukraine ended up at war in 2022

In 1994, Ukraine gave up its nuclear arsenal in return for written guarantees from Russia, the US and the UK to respect Ukrainian sovereignty.

Twenty years later, Russia ignored those guarantees and invaded the Crimean Peninsula, claiming the land for itself and the right to protect Russian-speaking people in eastern Ukraine.

Putin annexed Crimea illegally, sponsoring rebels and sending troops into eastern Ukraine to capture large areas of Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts (provinces).

The US, Europe and the UK did nothing to help or protect Ukraine, even banning lethal arms exports to the embattled nation.

In 2022, the Russian president went one step further and launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He was stunned that it stalled and then failed. Limited weapons supplies from the US and UK helped partisans and Ukrainian forces hold the Russians back and then turn them around.

Ferocious fighting turned the front lines into a meat grinder conflict of attrition, with the exception of summer 2022, where Ukraine managed to recapture large areas of territory.

Three years on and Russia now holds almost all of Luhansk oblast, much of Donetsk, a significant area of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, and all of Crimea.

Still fighting determinedly, Ukraine has a toehold inside Russian territory in Kursk and has been conducting punishing attacks deep into Russian territory.

In response, Russia has stepped up drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, often launching 500 in a single night.

In the Black Sea, Russias navy has been driven out by Ukraine, which doesnt have a navy to speak of, using special forces and drone attacks.

The red and purple areas highlighted show areas occupied by Russia in eastern Ukraine, with areas liberated by Ukraine in green (DeepStateMap)

What Russia wants

Putin has repeatedly said that there is no nation called Ukraine and that its territory is naturally part of Russia. His imperial ambitions are underpinned by Russias conquest of much of modern eastern Ukraine by Catherine the Great in the 18th century.

But above all, the Russian president is driven by a colonels Soviet mentality that led to Moscows attempts to annihilate the Ukrainian language, history and culture.

As a condition of a ceasefire of any kind, Russia has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from territories Moscow claims as its own, including the entirety of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts.

In a memorandum circulated at the Istanbul talks in March, Russia insisted a 30-day ceasefire would only take effect once Ukraine had fully pulled back from these four regions.

Russia also insists that Ukraine formally recognise all of Crimea and the four annexed oblasts as Russian territory in any future peace treaty.

This international legal recognition would enshrine Russias gains, obliging Kyiv to abandon any claim on those lands and to lift sanctions against Russia as part of a comprehensive settlement.

Trump has undercut Zelenskys war effort in multiple ways since returning to power (Ukrainian Presidential Press Service)

Moscow also insists that Ukraine amend its constitution to enshrine permanent neutrality. This means giving up on its constitutionally mandated effort to join Nato.

Ukraine must also be left vulnerable, with the banning of third-party foreign military bases from its territory, a ban on Western arms deliveries, and the prohibition of neo-Nazi ideology, which Russia uses to justify a forced denazification of Ukrainian society.

Longer term, Putin has demanded that the Russian language should have equal status with Ukrainian as an official language.

In return, Ukraine will get no guarantee that Russias ambitions will stop at the five regions it has already taken as part of a ceasefire.

What Trump is trying to achieve

The US had been supporting Ukraine but was quick to turn on Zelensky, drop military aid, cut civilian support, weaken intelligence sharing, to swing firmly behind Putin in supporting Russian demands long before talks were even close to starting.

Trumps latest pitch is that Ukraine should accept territorial losses. Some kind of a land swap has been mooted, but this is Ukrainian territory for Ukrainian territory. This is ahead of a ceasefire, let alone a long-term peace.

This could mean Ukraine would cede the remaining parts of Donetsk that it still controls in exchange for Russia freezing its lines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

Trump has also said there would be no US element to any future force to guarantee a longer-term peace deal in Ukraine.

The US president has weakened Ukraine by cutting military aid. The US had given about $114bn to Ukraine. That figure is now zero.

Trump now insists that Ukraine and its allies purchase weapons from the US. He has also forced a minerals deal on Ukraine that swaps profits from resources for arms.

As world leaders talk, the devastating war continues (AP)

What Ukraine is hoping will happen

Constitutionally, Zelensky can make no territorial concessions as part of a ceasefire. He would need a nationwide referendum to do so.

He also cannot abandon Ukraines attempts to join Nato as this has been enshrined in Ukrainian law since 2019. Hed need a referendum to change this.

Kyiv demands a full and unconditional ceasefire as the only basis for genuine negotiations and rejects any proposal that would require it to abandon its ambitions.

It sees Russian demands that Ukraine become neutral as an attack on its sovereignty.

Ukraine also insists on binding security guarantees from its Western partners, covering political, financial, military and diplomatic support.

The UK and the EU have pledged billions to support Ukraines fight (AP)

And how does Europe fit into all this?

Slow to respond to Russias invasion, Europe is now by far the biggest donor in terms of weapons, money, and other aid to Ukraine. In total, some 250bn has been pledged by the EU and UK.

The European mantra of no talks about Ukraine without Ukraine has been ignored by Trump and Putin. The US is saying only that Zelensky and then European leaders will get a call from Trump after hes finished talking to the Russian president.

Europe insists that only Ukraine make decisions on territorial changes, its long-term neutrality and all other sovereign issues.

By threatening the viability of Nato itself, Trump has forced Europe into huge increases in military spending towards a target of 5 per cent of GDP.

Poland, the Baltic states, Finland and others in Scandinavia are preparing their populations to withstand potential Russian incursions.

The most obvious route to restoring the Soviet empire by reclaiming lost influence in Eastern Europe is through the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad in the Baltics, and in Transnistria, a breakaway part of Moldova backed by Russia.

Ursula von de Leyen, the EU president summed it up succinctly: Putin wants to force Ukraine into accepting the unacceptable, so the task we face is to help Ukraine stand strong, defy Putin's intimidations, and engage in peace talks based on its own conditions.
Labour has got itself into a cleft stick. Having come to power on a pledge of not raising taxes on working people, in response to the opposition charge that it cares more about those who dont work, that raising money from the employed goes to help those who choose to be unemployed, Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are stuck.

They are faced with a deficit of 50bn, give or take, for which they can no longer blame the Tories  that legacy was half. Its down to their failure to drive the economy, to achieve as they insist, faster and further growth. Its just not happening, and, meanwhile, they have that hole to fill.

They cant borrow extra because another reason that the chasm is so large is due to higher-than-expected borrowing costs. They dare not cut services because that would alienate their bedrock, and austerity is what Tories do, not them.

So, they cast around for tax targets. However, they cant alight on those who are putting in the hours and earning by aiming for income tax, employee national insurance, or VAT, because that would betray the election promise. So, they pick those who once worked. Inheritance tax, or IHT, or as its popularly known, death duty, is in their crosshairs.

At present, inheritance tax is 40 per cent on estates above 325,000. But there is no limit on how much can be gifted to relatives tax-free if the giving is made seven years before someone dies. If its within seven years, then a sliding scale or taper relief applies. The rate drops each year, from 32 per cent to 8 per cent. Those who think they, or rather their inheritors, may be clobbered duly give it away in good time. The result is that inheritance tax is paid by only around 4 per cent of estates.

Reeves and her advisers know that people are sitting in homes that have soared in value and possess gold-plated pension pots, and they want some of it (AFP/Getty)

In the eyes of Reeves and her advisers, that is too little. They know that people are sitting in homes that have soared in value and possess gold-plated pension pots, and they want some of it. They are looking at imposing a lifetime cap on how much can be gifted and/or changing the rules on taper relief. To ensure, in other words, that IHT is not so easily avoided and that the 4 per cent figure increases enormously.

Whats not to like? Politically, those affected are the better off, who are not natural Labour voters. It is not earned money, in the sense that property prices and pensions have risen since they ceased to work. Its fair game to grab it. Indeed, that is precisely what a source with knowledge of the work told The Guardian: Its hard to make sure these taxes dont end up with loopholes that undermine their purpose. But we are trying to work out what revenue might be raised and how to ensure its a fair approach.

Labour has form for this. Its exactly what this government did to the farmers, except there it was farmers with land worth more than 3m. Reeves said this week she believed they should make a contribution. These are weasel words. Reeves is ignoring the fact that they have already contributed, as presumably, she and her colleagues are doing so again, by claiming they are looking to be fair.

Apparently, one of the motivators is that they are not keen on a wealth tax as many of their supporters would like because that will serve to encourage the wealthy who can do so to leave the country, and there is evidence to suggest that is already happening, and would damage attempts to encourage greater investment to galvanise the economy. But how is this any different? It still sends the same signal that Labour sees the rich and not even that rich, as ripe for plundering.

In whatever way it is dressed up and spun, the message is clear: youre better off not working or making some money under Labour, because they will get you in the long run.

Ignoring the working people and selecting those who have worked may cleverly satisfy their political and fiscal ambitions, but it fools no one. Under Labour, it really does pay not to work.
Jeremy Clarkson will finally allow ketchup at his pub, The Farmers Dog.

The former Top Gear host, 65, had famously banned the condiment at the Cotswolds pub as it went against his UK-only ingredients rule - but now hes now set to offer the sauce to diners.

The change is because Jeremy is now able to offer a tomato sauce made entirely with British ingredients.

The condiment - at 7.95 a bottle - has been made by Isle of Wight company Condimaniac and their sauce uses Isle of Wight tomato passata, apple cider vinegar from Hants, Essex salt and British sugar and onions.

Good news for ketchup fans visiting Jeremy Clarksons pub (Ben Birchall/PA) (PA Archive)

Jeremy and the team support the British food and farming industry, a source told The Sun.

So he made no apologies for not selling ketchup, no matter how many times staff had to let customers down.

But the pubs always said that if a British company could do it with all-British ingredients, it would get on the menu. Hopefully itll be a success.

Earlier today, Jeremy responded to the chaos US vice-president JD Vances visit to the Cotswolds had caused his Chipping North farm.

On Tuesday, the presenter told fans on Instagram that a no-fly zone has been imposed around the Grade II-listed manor house where Vance is staying, with the restricted airspace covering Clarksons own Diddly Squat Farm.

As a result, the production team behind Clarksons Farm, which is currently filming season five, has been forced to scrap any drone footage while the vice president remains in the area.

Vance is spending the rest of August in the hamlet of Dean as part of his UK visit, which mixes leisure with political engagements.

His itinerary has so far included a two-night stay with Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening, where fishing trips were combined with security discussions over whether Ukraine should cede territory to Russia.

The vice-president has since moved on to a Grade II listed Georgian manor house near Charlbury, Oxfordshire, an area favoured by celebrities, but some locals say the visit has caused major disruption.

The presenter shared his frustration about on Instagram, posting a map showing a no-fly zone that covers his Diddly Squat Farm.

He wrote: The JD Vance no fly zone. We are the pin. So on the downside, no drone shots today. On the upside, no annoying light aircraft.
Zohran Mamdani speaks during a press conference in New York City, on Monday. Photograph: Michael M Santiago/Getty Images

The closely watched New York mayoral and governors races appear to be forming into shapes that will bring little comfort to centrist Democrats, with elections happening in November this year in New York City and the gubernatorial vote a year later.

A new Siena Institute poll released on Tuesday shows New York Citys Democratic socialist mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, leading former New York governor Andrew Cuomo by 19 percentage points  while the Republican congresswoman Elise Stefanik is chipping away at incumbent Democrat Kathy Hochuls lead in a hypothetical contest for the New York governors mansion in 2026.

Hochuls lead over Stefanik, who was nominated to be US ambassador to the United Nations before withdrawing to help Republicans maintain a majority in Congress, has now dropped from 23 points in June to 14 points.

Stefanik has not officially decided on whether to seek the governors office, but she has been noticeably attacking Hochuls record. The poll found that 49% of voters in the state said it would be bad for New York if Stefanik were elected governor.

The latest Siena poll is catastrophic for Kathy Hochul as she is losing independent voters to Elise Stefanik, is below 50% on the ballot, and only 35% of voters want to re-elect Kathy Hochul, said Stefaniks executive director Alex deGrasse in a statement to the Guardian. He predicted voters are looking to Stefanik to deliver new leadership.



Chairwoman Elise Stefanik will continue to focus on providing results such as delivering the largest middle class tax cut in New York history. She will repeal Kathy Hochuls failed bail reform and dangerous sanctuary cities policies and cut taxes for New Yorkers, deGrasse added.

In the mayoral race, the poll found 44% of registered New York City voters backing Mamdani, followed by 25% for Cuomo, 12% for the Republican party nominee, Curtis Sliwa, and only 7% for the incumbent mayor, Eric Adams.

However, Cuomo leads among Black and Jewish voters, two groups that Mamdani underperforms with. But Mamdani holds a towering lead with younger voters, leading Cuomo by 49% among voters aged 18 to 34 but trailing Cuomo by 6% among voters 55 years and older.

Mamdani is the Democratic party candidate in the race. Cuomo and Adams  who are both Democrats  are running as independents.

Tuesdays poll also signaled that outside New York City, surveyed voters have a negative impression of Mamdani, with 37% having an unfavorable opinion and 28% positive. But Cuomo scored lower, with 61% of voters polled statewide holding a poor impression.

Yet leading centrist New York Democrats, including the US Senate minority leader, Chuck Schumer, US House minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, and Hochul have yet to throw their weight behind Mamdani.

We still have many differences, Hochul said two days earlier on Fox News Sunday. I dont know how you whitewash that away.

But she said she was willing to work with whoever the voters elect in New York City.

On Monday, Mamdani kicked off a week-long tour titled Five Boroughs Against Trump, highlighting what he maintains are the dangers posed to the city by the presidential administration.

Related: Forged signatures listed on New York City mayors re-election campaign petition  report

Cuomo, meanwhile, is attempting to highlight what he sees as a flaw in Mamdanis position on the key issue of housing and affordability.

Cuomos campaign has pitched a state law to keep the rich out of rent-stabilized apartments that it calls Zohrans Law. Cuomo has been bashing his rival for living in a $2,300 rent-stabilized, one-bedroom while making more than $140,000 a year as a state assemblymember.

Cuomo proposed that rent-stabilized apartments should go to individuals who pay no less than 30% of their income in rent to qualify. The Mamdani campaign has said their candidate would have met this standard when he moved in and was earning $47,000 a year.

Mamdani responded to Cuomos accusation that he is too wealthy for his rent-stabilized apartment on Monday, saying: I live rent-free in his head.

The Mamdani campaign also hit back in a video with insinuations of links between Cuomo and Jeffrey Epstein, the late disgraced financier who pleaded guilty in Florida to charges of prostitution and solicitation of prostitution with a minor in 2008.

The video demanded that Cuomo release his list of consulting clients, noting the ex-governor once worked on a yacht marina project in Puerto Rico with Andrew Farkas, a former partner of Epstein on Caribbean marinas.
Southern California parents were arrested by authorities after their two-year-old toddler was found walking barefoot and alone on railroad tracks in Needles.

Officials with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department reported that around 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, it responded to a report of a child at L and Broadway streets. Authorities later discovered the toddler alone, with no shoes, and walking along the track.

California Parents Arrested

A release from the Sheriff's Department Colorado River station noted that authorities said the child's parents were identified as 48-year-old Bradley Underwood and 30-year-old Sara Estrada. The couple arrived at the scene shortly after as the railroad runs alongside the family's neighborhood, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The parents in the case were subsequently arrested by authorities and charged with child abuse. In an official investigation, officials questioned the couple, noting that they both displayed symptoms of being under the influence of a central nervous system stimulant.

A search warrant was later issued at the house of the family in Needles, which is where authorities discovered additional evidence regarding the case. So far, it is unclear where the additional evidence was located.

Official documents noted that Underwood was arrested on charges of child abuse and violation of post-release community supervision. Authorities revealed he is still in custody with no bail. On the other hand, Estrada was arrested for child abuse and remains in custody with bail set at $50,000, FoxLA reported.

Child Walking on Railroad Tracks

After authorities discovered the two-year-old child walking barefoot on the railroad tracks, they transferred the toddler to the Colorado River Station. That was where Child Protective Services took the girl into their care. However, officials did not reveal the condition of the child.

A separate incident occurred earlier this month when a couple left their 10-year-old son alone at the airport to catch their vacation flight. Guardia Civil, Spain's national police, said that the incident took place at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Authorities said that the young boy was not allowed to board the flight his family was supposed to be on because of issues with his documentation. His parents decided to call a relative to pick up their son as they, along with a younger child, went on their flight.

After the Guardia Civil found the 10-year-old boy, they immediately grounded the flight his parents were on, found them, and escorted them to a Mossos d'Esquadra station, as per USA Today.
Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Donald Trump and European leaders that Vladimir Putin is bluffing over his intentions to end the war in Ukraine, ahead of a crucial summit between the US and Russia on Friday.

The Ukrainian president reiterated that there can be no talk of territorial concessions without his countrys involvement, as both he and other world leaders are sidelined from the historic meeting in Anchorage, Alaska.

Following a virtual conference with Mr Zelensky, Mr Trump, German chancellor Friedrich Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir Starmer said a viable chance of reaching a ceasefire in the Ukraine war now exists, but Britain stands ready to increase pressure on Moscow if necessary.

German chancellor Friedrich Merz organised the virtual meeting to make sure European leaders are heard ahead of Fridays summit (Getty)

Trump has also threatened "severe consequences" if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine. While he has not specified what those consequences could be, he has warned of further economic sanctions if the meeting proves fruitless.

It comes as a report in The Times suggests Russia and the US have discussed the Israeli occupation of the West Bank as a potential model for a future settlement between Moscow and Kyiv.

The plan, which is understood to be supported by Mr Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff, would imitate Israels rule over Palestinian territory since 1967, with Russia seizing military and economic control of the disputed regions.

During Wednesdays meeting, Mr Macron said that Mr Trump had been very clear in his objective to achieve a ceasefire, and had reiterated that territorial issues relating to Ukraine will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president.

Mr Trump later said that if his meeting with the Russian leader goes well, he would like to have a quick second meeting with Putin and Mr Zelensky.

He rated the call as a 10, and denied that it was his decision to exclude Mr Zelensky from Fridays talks.

"If the first [meeting] goes OK, we'll have a quick second one," Mr Trump told reporters. "I would like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there."

Meanwhile, Mr Zelensky told Mr Trump and European leaders that Putin is bluffing  he is trying to push forward along the whole front.

Putin is also bluffing, saying he doesnt care about the sanctions and that theyre not working, he said. In reality, the sanctions are very effective, and theyre hurting the Russian military economy. Putin doesnt want peace  he wants to occupy our country.

Donald Trump has described the summit with Putin on Friday as a feel-out meeting (AP)

In recent days, Russian forces have been closing in on key territory around the city of Pokrovsk in the Donbas region, which could interrupt Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where Putin has concentrated his military efforts.

On Tuesday, Mr Zelensky said that Putin has demanded Kyivs forces withdraw from Donetsk as part of any potential ceasefire deal, a notion which he strongly rejected.

Reiterating his stance that relinquishing the Donbas region would not be agreed by Ukraine, Mr Zelensky told reporters: Any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people, and the Ukrainian constitution.

Volodymyr Zelensky also joined Keir Starmer and other coalition of the willing leaders who wish to police any future peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv (AFP/Getty)

Mr Merz convened the virtual meetings in an attempt to make sure European leaders, and especially Mr Zelensky, are heard ahead of the Trump-Putin summit on Friday.

In a post to his Truth Social account ahead of the summit, Mr Trump said: Will be speaking to European leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done.

Mr Merz said after the video conference that important decisions could be made in Anchorage, but stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected at the summit.

He added that European leaders made it clear to Mr Trump that Ukraine must be at the table for any future meetings, a ceasefire must come ahead of the start of the negotiations, and recognising Russian-occupied territory is not on the table.

Other objectives included ensuring Ukrainian forces can defend their country with the support of Europe, and that wider negotiations must be part of a transatlantic strategy.

Fridays meeting has been described by the White House as a feel-out summit, with Mr Trump looking to see if Putin is serious about ending the war, and to better understand his intentions.

Keir Starmer has said that international borders must not be changed by force (Reuters)

However, his comments that both Russia and Ukraine must concede territory have caused concern, with European leaders worried that any major concessions to Putin could cause security problems for the West.

A call among coalition of the willing leaders  those countries prepared to help police any future peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv, including the UK  also took place on Wednesday.

Sir Keir said: This is a critical moment. We have to combine active diplomacy on the one hand with military support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia.

International borders ... must not be changed by force ... thats a long-standing principle of this group.

And alongside that, any talk about borders, diplomacy, ceasefire has to sit alongside a robust and credible security guarantee to ensure that any peace ... is lasting peace and Ukraine can defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.
aguadeluna / Getty Images

From a simple meal of buttered noodles to nostalgic childhood favorites like spaghetti Bolognese, nothing beats a delicious plate of pasta. On weeknights, noodles often play a key role in quick dinners. Thats why boxes of dried pasta are always stocked in my pantry, and Im not alone  pasta remains one of the most popular grocery purchases in the United States.

In a sea of so many pasta brands, shapes, and options, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which dried pasta will deliver the best quality and flavor while browsing supermarket aisles.

Considering how many people depend on this staple item, we spoke with the executive chef of the renowned Italian restaurant Ci Siamo in New York City and James Beard Award nominee Hillary Sterling for her tips on selecting better boxed pasta at the grocery store. It turns out, even before purchasing or trying a specific pasta, you can look for simple clues to see if its worth your money.



The surface of the pasta should have texture

When cooking pasta, you want the sauce to cling to the surface of the noodles. According to Sterling, this means the texture of the pasta you choose is crucial, a quality that goes hand in hand with how the dough was cut.

The chef explains that Traditional dried pasta is extruded using a bronze die. It's really important to see texture on the dried pasta; it almost looks a little scratchy, a visual indicator that the pasta is bronze die-cut. The rougher surface allows the sauce to more easily adhere to the pasta as the two are tossed together, like little arms grabbing the sauce, Sterling notes.

Related: The Right Pasta for Every Sauce, According to Chefs

Avoid shiny pasta

In addition to searching for a scratchy texture, the chef warns home cooks to avoid "shiny" pasta  which indicates it wasnt cut with bronze dies. If a pasta is shiny, then it was most likely extruded through a plastic die, she explains. Sterling adds that plastic dies are mainly used by big box pasta chain makers, because this method allows for faster production.

A Teflon-cut pasta will have a shinier and smoother exterior, which you should avoid for several reasons: These noodles tend to stick together during cooking, become gummy once cooked, and don't hold onto sauce well.

Color can tell you how a pasta was dried

Pasta can be dried quickly or slowly, and when you consult experts, theyll always recommend the latter. Drying pasta slowly preserves its gluten structure, makes the final product easier to digest, and helps it cook evenly. It will also remain more porous, making it easier for sauces to stick to.

Sterling explains that pasta should be dried for at least 24 to 48 hours, depending on the shape. To do this properly, she says, The drying process needs to be slow in a temperature- and humidity-controlled room.

When comparing pastas, pay close attention to their color, which is an important indicator of how the product was dried. According to the Ci Siamo chef, you should look for a textured, pale-yellow pasta with streaks of white. With the exception of some egg-enriched options, youll generally want to avoid bright yellow or orange-colored pastas.

It doesnt have to come from Italy

Sterling notes that the origin of dried pasta isnt as important as you might think, emphasizing that what really matters is using the right ingredients, a bronze die, and giving the pasta time to properly dry. The chef usually prefers to source any dried pasta she cooks with from Italy but also mentions buying a lot of Sfoglini for the house. It's a great brand and made in upstate New York.

Which shapes of dried pasta should you buy?

The pasta shape you choose largely comes down to personal preference or what might work best with a particular sauce. But if youre facing indecision, Sterling encourages buying dried pasta shapes that are hard to make at home, like bucatini, rigatoni, or anything curly like fusilli.

Related: These 8 Iconic Pasta Shapes Share a Surprising History

When asked about the dried pasta brands she often keeps in her pantry, Sterling said, I like Sfoglini [and] Rustichella  or Setaro if you can't find the first two. The chef also occasionally uses Wegmans Amore brand at home to make pasta salads.



Read the original article on Food & Wine
USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.

Air Canada is preparing to indefinitely suspend most of its flights over the next three days after hitting an impasse in contract negotiations with its flight attendants' union.

The union issued a notice of intention to strike, and Air Canada said a "phased wind down of most of its operations" is the best way to minimize the pain for its customers. However, the airline is warning that many passengers could be stuck while the strike goes on.

"Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge carry approximately 130,000 customers a day who could be affected by a disruption, this includes the 25,000 Canadians that the airline flies home from abroad each day, who could be stranded," the airline said in a statement.

The primary disagreement between the airline and its flight attendants' union appears to be over wages. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents Air Canada's flight attendants, said negotiators have not been satisfied with the airline's offers for wage increases and other forms of compensation, and it rejected a proposal by the airline to continue contract talks in arbitration.

The airline said flights operated by Jazz and PAL, its regional affiliates, will continue as normal during the strike, but those carriers represent only about 20% of Air Canada's total network capacity.

"The first flights will be cancelled August 14, with more on August 15, with a complete cessation of flying by Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge on August 16," the airline's statement said.

It's unclear how long the strike could last.

Air Canada said customers whose flights are canceled will be eligible for a full refund if they do not travel on alternative flights arranged by the airline with other carriers.

"The company has made arrangements with other Canadian and foreign carriers to provide customers alternative travel options to the extent possible. Customers will be notified of alternative travel options that are identified for them," Air Canada's statement said. "However, given other carriers are already very full due to the summer travel peak, securing such capacity will take time and, in many cases, will not be immediately possible."

An Air Canada plane is parked at Toronto Pearson Airport in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada April 28, 2021. REUTERS/Carlos Osorio

What an Air Canada Strike will mean for US travelers

Air Canada does not operate any domestic flights within the United States. Still, it is a major carrier for international connecting itineraries and a key link between the United States and Canada. Data from AirAdvisor, a consumer airline refund website, suggests as many as 27,000 U.S passengers a day could be affected.

U.S. travelers with plans to visit Canada in the coming days and weeks, or to connect through Canadian hubs to destinations in Europe, Asia and beyond, should keep an eye out for notifications from the airline about their flights.

Even passengers who aren't booked to fly on Air Canada could be indirectly affected as other airlines try to absorb the passengers displaced by the strike.

United Airlines and Air Canada are close partners as members of Star Alliance, so it's likely that United's international and trans-border flights will be a little fuller during the strike.

(This story was updated to add new information.)

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What the Air Canada strike means for US and Canadian travelers
Police bodycam video shows Powerball jackpot winner tased, tackled and arrested

Body camera footage from a Florida police officer shows a Kentucky Powerball jackpot winner, who collected his prize just hours before, getting arrested for allegedly kicking an officer in the face during a fight.

James Farthing and his girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightmaster, were arrested at the TradeWinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida, in April, according to an arrest affidavit and court records obtained and reviewed by USA TODAY.

Farthing, 50, is accused of punching another hotel guest in the face during an argument. A Pinellas County Sheriffs deputy was trying to break up the fight when Farthing kicked him in the face, causing swelling and redness, the affidavit said.

Police accuse Farthing of trying to flee the scene. He was apprehended later, as seen in the bodycam footage from April.

According to a separate arrest affidavit, Farthing's girlfriend is accused of trying to fight other patrons in the resort bar.

She appeared very intoxicated and was yelling, screaming and making incoherent statements, the affidavit reads.

Farthing is charged with one felony count of battery on a law enforcement officer and two misdemeanor counts of battery and resisting an officer, according to online court records. Fightmaster is being charged with one misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct.

Farthing's attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment from USA TODAY.

Linda Grizzle, James Farthing and Jacqueline Fightmaster pictured with the winnings from the Powerball.

See the bodycam video

On April 28, one day before his arrest, Farthing and his mother were announced as the winners of a $167.3 million Powerball jackpot.

The jackpot was the largest prize ever won in the history of Kentucky.

Its going to be a good Mothers Day, Farthing's mother, Linda Grizzle, told lottery officials. This is going to pay off my debt.

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bodycam shows Powerball winner being tackled, tased by police
Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar in <em>Saare Jahan Se Accha.</em> Credit - Courtesy of Netflix

Warning: This post contains spoilers for Saare Jahan Se Accha.

Set in the 1970s, Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians unspools an intense tale of espionage and military strategy, following an Indian counterintelligence officer as he confronts an imminent nuclear threat.

Premiering on Aug. 13 on Netflix, the series finds drama in the complex and dangerous workings of intelligence operations, where every step can mean the difference between life and death. By showcasing the intrigue, betrayal, and sacrifice of the agents involved, the series exposes the human cost behind national security.

Lets break down the major plot lines in Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians.

Read more: The Best International Movies on Netflix

The India-Pakistan relationship

The conflict between India and Pakistan in Saare Jahan Se Accha is more than a territorial or ideological disputeit is a race for power. The storyline is inspired by real historical events: since the partition of the British subcontinent in 1947, the two countries have fought wars primarily over the disputed Kashmir province. In the serieswhich begins in the early 1960s and unfolds in a linear timelineafter two wars within five years, Indian physicist Homi Jehangir Bhabha publicly advocates for India to become a nuclear power. This declaration draws the attention of the CIA, which fears an arms race in the region and begins acting to prevent India from developing its bomb.

Indian agent Vishnu Shankar (Pratik Gandhi) discovers that confidential information about Bhabhas trip was leaked to the Americans and tries to prevent an assassination attempt. However, the scientist dies when the plane explodes mid-air in 1966, putting Indias nuclear program on hold. This event leads to the creation of a new Indian espionage agency, focused especially on monitoring threats in enemy territories: the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).

In Saare Jahan Se Accha, tensions between the countries rise again with the crisis in East Pakistan that triggers the 1971 war. Pakistan is divided, and India claims victorywhich is seen as a national humiliation across the border. The prime ministers of both countries sign the Simla Agreement, intended as a peace treaty, but unexpectedly marking the beginning of another conflict. Determined never to lose again, the Pakistani government secretly initiates efforts to acquire its own nuclear bomb, turning the dispute into a silent war of intelligence and strategy.

Read more: Heres Whats New on Netflix in August 2025

Does India manage to sabotage Pakistans nuclear attempts?

Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar, Ninad Kamat as Adhikari in Saare Jahan Se Accha. Courtesy of Netflix

In Episode 3 of the series, it becomes clear that Pakistan is not building its own nuclear reactor from scratch, but buying one from the French manufacturer HGNa company active in nuclear technology that also helped China become a nuclear powerwith components that will enable the production of neutralized plutonium. This material will be converted into weapons-grade plutonium, suitable for nuclear arms manufacture.

To curb this threat, Vishnu, now leading R&AW operations in Pakistan, organizes a risky secret mission to intercept a shipment near the port of Gadani, where the cargo is expected to arrive. He is aided by Yasir Abbas, a weapons specialist; Raghuveer Singh, a sniper who served in Kashmir and Tawang; Uday Bhan, an explosives expert; and Sukhbir Singh, an Indian agent undercover in Pakistan posing as a Karachi stockbroker.

Read more: Breaking Down the Complex Ending of Indian Thriller Mandala Murders

With heavy military security and constant surveillance, the location is nearly impenetrable but still has vulnerabilities. Vishnus team infiltrates an abandoned underground tunnel about 800 meters from the port to plant explosives at strategic points, since the trucks carrying the dismantled reactorsplit into three loadswill pass directly above it. However, Pakistani soldiers patrolling the area discover the team, leading to a firefight that kills three soldiers. Yasir, Uday, and Raghuveer don Pakistani army uniforms to execute a new plan: blow up the ship carrying the reactor. Meanwhile, Vishnu heads to a watchtower and Sukhbir sets off in a boat with a backup plan if the others fail to detonate the explosives from inside.

Yasir, Uday, and Raghuveer are killed by Pakistani forces after planting explosives on the cargo, which are then defused. Using a walkie-talkie, Vishnu informs Sukhbir of the situation, and then he initiates his plan. Piloting a boat loaded with explosives toward the ship, Sukhbir exchanges gunfire with the army once they spot him. Despite being wounded, he recovers enough to successfully ram into the ship, resulting in a massive explosion that destroys both vessels. The mission was never supposed to be a suicide operation, but following the failure of the initial plan and the deaths of the specialists, Sukhbir initiated his backup plan. With that, Pakistan loses its nuclear reactor.

Who dies during the mission?

Sunny Hinduja as Murtaza. Courtesy of Netflix

At the start of Saare Jahan Se Accha, several spies from the CIA, Mossad, and KGB are uncovered and killed in Pakistan, as well as intermediaries assisting India. However, the most prominent characters involved in the R&AW mission die beginning in Episode 3.

Naushad Ahmed, a respected senior officer in the Pakistan Army, begins feeding information on Pakistans nuclear program to R&AW after being blackmailed with photos of his son, Altamash Ahmed, with another boy. Naushad asks his friend Murtaza Malik, head of Pakistans intelligence agency, to look after his son before said friend shoots him in the head.

The three specialists on Vishnus teamYasir Abbas, Raghuveer Singh, and Uday Bhanare killed during the violent confrontation with Pakistani soldiers on the ship. The most poignant sacrifice is that of Sukhbir, whose intentional crash into the cargo ship amounts to a suicide mission. This act ensures the reactors total destruction as he sacrifices his life for the success of the operation and his country. Vishnu Shankar is the sole survivor of this mission, carrying the memory of his fallen comrades who gave their lives for national securitya silent and invisible gesture to the public.

How does Saare Jahan Se Accha end?

Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar in Saare Jahan Se Accha. Courtesy of Netflix

The series conclusion reinforces the somber tone that permeates the narrative. After the successful mission, Vishnu returns to India but carries the weight of loss and the heavy responsibility of his role.

Though Vishnus mission to sabotage the imminent nuclear threat succeeds, he is already en route to a new assignment in the final minutes of the last episode. The series closes with Vishnu on the India-China border, symbolizing that despite this battles victory, the intelligence war never ends. Each completed mission is merely a step toward the next, in a relentless fight to protect his country from unseen dangers.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
CORRECTS THAT OFFICER WAS KILLED, NOT WOUNDED - A memorial is seen in the aftermath of a shooting near the CDC where DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose was killed while responding, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

ATLANTA (AP)  A barrage of bullets launched at the headquarters of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week by a man authorities say was angry over COVID-19 vaccinations is the latest attack directed at health care workers amid hostility lingering from the pandemic.

Some public health care workers say the shooting that killed a police officer and rattled the CDC campus shouldn't be surprising in the face of ongoing misinformation and animosity about the safety of immunizations.

All of us, anybody who stands up for science or vaccines, will at some level get hate mail or a phone call thats unnerving or a death threat, said Paul Offit, the co-inventor of a rotavirus vaccine.

Just four years ago, while hospitals overflowed with unvaccinated patients, school board members, local leaders and doctors were regularly confronted in public with taunts comparing them to the Taliban, Nazis and leaders of Japanese internment camps. Sometimes the conflicts descended into violence and harassment.

The distrust and anger that grew since then has been amplified by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., said Offit, who heads the vaccine education center at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia.

Kennedy has been a leading voice in spreading false information about vaccines, scientists and public health leaders, often using heated rhetoric that says they have caused mass death and injury. People he describes in such language have said his comments have led to threats, intimidation and even violence.

Kennedy denounces violence but criticizes CDCs work

Kennedy, who toured the CDC campus on Monday, said no one should face violence while working to protect the health of others and called political violence wrong. But he went on to criticize the agencys pandemic response.

One of the things that we saw during COVID is that the government was overreaching in its efforts to persuade the public to get vaccinated, and they were saying things that are not always true, Kennedy said during a television interview with Scripps News later in the day.

A spokesperson for Kennedy blasted any notion that blamed vaccine misinformation for Fridays attack.

This narrative is pure fiction, built on anonymous complaints and a willful disregard for the facts, said Andrew Nixon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Secretary Kennedy is not advancing an anti-vaccine agenda  he is advancing a pro-safety, pro-transparency, and pro-accountability agenda.

Authorities have said that 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White had written about his discontent with the COVID-19 vaccine before he opened fire on the CDC.

White also had verbalized thoughts of suicide, which led to law enforcement being contacted several weeks before the shooting, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. White died at the scene of a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Friday after killing DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose.

Shooting rattles CDC campus

Following the attack, CDC employees were asked to scrape off old CDC parking decals from their vehicles. But even before that, some workers had taken steps to become less visible, including not wearing their public health service uniform, said Yolanda Jacobs, a union leader who represents some CDC workers.

The CDC's new director told employees this week that no act of violence can diminish their mission to protect public health.

We know that misinformation can be dangerous. Not only to health, but to those that trust us and those we want to trust, Dr. Susan Monarez told employees during an all-hands meeting Tuesday, her first since the attack capped her first full week on campus as director.

The federal agency, tasked with tracking diseases and responding to health threats, has been hit by widespread staff cuts, key resignations and heated controversy over long-standing CDC vaccine policies upended by Kennedy.

What happened on Friday is a direct result of that misinformation, said Sarah Boim, a former CDC worker whose job was targeted for elimination earlier this year. Health Secretary Kennedy is one of the biggest pushers of misinformation.

The shooting, she said, left her in tears.

My friends and family still work in those buildings, she said. My mom works in one of those buildings.

In the aftermath, officials are assessing security and encouraging staff to report any new threats, including those based on misinformation about the CDC and its vaccine work.

Anti-vaccine tension has been building

Despite its prominence since the pandemic, anti-vaccine rhetoric leading to harassment and violence took root before then.

In 2019, an anti-vaccine activist assaulted California state Sen. Richard Pan, streaming it live on Facebook, after Pan sponsored a bill to make it more difficult to get a vaccine exemption. Another threw blood at Pan and other lawmakers.

The attacks came after Kennedy spoke outside the California Capitol, two large posters behind him featured Pans image, with the word LIAR stamped across his face in blood-red paint.

Pan, a pediatrician, blames Kennedy for what happened then and now at the CDC.

And you wonder why someone would go shoot up the CDC, Pan said. Because he basically told them that those are the people you should hurt.

___

Hollingsworth reported from Kansas City, Missouri, and Seewer reported from Toledo, Ohio.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, in Arlington, Va., on July 15. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson / AP)

BALTIMORE  A judge on Wednesday expressed some skepticism about an unprecedented lawsuit in which the Trump administration sued all 15 Maryland-based federal judges over a standing order related to deportation cases.

The lawsuit is the latest escalation of the Trump administration's war on the judiciary, which has been marked by criticism of judges who have ruled against the government over President Donald Trump's bold and aggressive use of executive power.

At issue is a standing order issued by Chief Judge George Russell on May 21 and updated a week later that set rules for handling cases involving immigrants facing immediate risk of deportation. The order applies a temporary stay of deportation for two business days while the case is considered.

The Justice Department sued, saying Russell had no authority to issue such a blanket order that effectively acts as a broad injunction against government actions without any assessment of whether the individual immigrants have valid cases.

But U.S. District Judge Thomas Cullen, who normally sits in Virginia and was assigned the case because Maryland judges cannot participate, questioned whether the Justice Department took the correct approach in filing a lawsuit.

"You probably picked up that I dont have a very good poker face, he said, addressing Justice Department lawyer Elizabeth Hedges. I have some skepticism, he added.

There are other avenues the government has to challenge the order, he said, including by appealing in a case involving an individual immigrant in which the standing order is applied.

Noting that the Supreme Court in recent months has acted quickly on a flurry of cases involving the Trump administration, Cullen said the dispute may have been resolved by now if the government had filed a regular appeal.

"If recent precedent is any guide, you would already have a decision," he added.

Cullen did, however, appear more sympathetic to some of the government's arguments on the merits, noting that government lawyers made a "fair point" that even a two-day delay acts as a form of temporary injunction.

A former prosecutor, Cullen was appointed by Trump in 2020 with the backing of Virginias two Democratic senators. He said he plans to issue a ruling by Labor Day.

The standing order came in response to the flurry of actions taken by the Trump administration relating to immigration, including moves to deport people without due process. One of the most high-profile cases in the country, involving a Salvadoran man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was wrongly deported back to his native country before eventually being returned, arose in Maryland.

The order states that when an immigrant files a petition for habeas corpus in a federal court in Maryland, the government is temporarily prevented from deporting them until the claim can be adjudicated.

The automatic stay has been applied to at least 12 cases so far, the government says.

The standing order is intended in part to "preserve existing conditions and the potential jurisdiction of this court over pending matters," Russell wrote.

Hedges argued Wednesday that the order imposes restrictions on the government that courts in most immigration cases have no power to impose.

"We are seeing a huge problem," she said.

Hedges added that the lawsuit was not undertaken lightly and similar actions would not become commonplace.

"This is not an assault on the separation of powers," she said.

In response to the lawsuit, the Maryland judges hired a legal team that includes Paul Clement, who served as solicitor general under President George W. Bush, a Republican.

Clement warned in court that if the lawsuit was allowed to move forward toward a trial, it would create a "nightmare scenario" in which judges could be deposed and internal judiciary documents could be reviewed by the government.

"All of that is avoided if you go the ordinary route," he added, referring to the government filing an appeal in one of the cases rather than suing judges.
Bowls of cooked boxed mac and cheese - Olgamiltsova/Getty Images

Boxed mac and cheese is a kitchen staple. While most store-bought options are what cheesy dreams are made of, a simple addition can elevate the packaged pasta almost instantly. Food Republic reached out to expert Sarah Hill, food blogger at Real Food with Sarah, who recommends stirring canned mushroom soup into your next batch.

The soup, which is known for its savory notes, "brings two major wins," according to Hill: "creaminess and umami." Just open the can, stir your desired amount into the cheese sauce, and then fold in the cooked noodles. As for the exact quantity, it depends on your personal taste, but as a rule of thumb, use 4 ounces of soup per 1 pound of noodles.

Hill goes on to say that "the soup adds a silky texture and earthy flavor" to the boxed mac  a unique flair that takes it from basic to elevated nostalgia. Before reaching for any old can in the back of the pantry, however, consider choosing one of our top-ranked cream of mushroom soup brands to find the best flavor and finish.

Read more: Canned Cream Of Mushroom Soup Brands Ranked

How To Balance The Flavors In Your Elevated Mac Dish

Hand holding a cream of mushroom soup can in store - Opasbbb/Shutterstock

To keep the flavor in balance, one idea is to choose a lower-sodium can of cream of mushroom soup to manage the saltiness. For added complexity, you should also opt for a highly-rated boxed mac and cheese with unique notes, such as sharp cheddar for bite. To prevent things from being one note, Sarah Hill also recommends "adding acidity (like lemon juice or hot sauce) to cut through the creaminess." Vinegar-based hot sauces, like Louisiana and Tabasco, would work especially well here.

Another trick Hill shares: "Serving the mac with fresh herbs and fresh cracked black pepper also brightens things up and keeps the flavor balanced." To instantly upgrade boxed mac and cheese, add basil for a sweet, peppery finish, or dill for a grassy, tangy note. Spice-wise, ingredients like paprika offer mild smokiness and sweetness, while red pepper flakes bring heat that effectively balances out any overly indulgent flavors from the soup and cheese.

Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time.

Read the original article on Food Republic.
MUNICH  President Donald Trump joined a video call Wednesday with European leaders and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who implored him not to capitulate to Russias demands during Fridays high-profile summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

During a press conference at the Kennedy Center in downtown Washington, D.C., Trump described the call as a very good conversation."

Trump said that, after his meeting with Putin on Friday, he would call Zelenskyy as well as European leaders to update them on what was discussed. Trump said there's a "very good chance" that he would have a second meeting with Putin if the first one is productive.

"If the first one goes okay, well have a quick second one," he said. "I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskyy and myself, if theyd like to have me there."

Asked what would happen if Putin doesn't agree to end the war after the meeting on Friday, Trump warned Russia would face "very severe consequences," though he didn't specify what the response could entail.

Despite Russias invasion impacting them most directly, European powers and Ukraine have not been invited to the Trump-Putin summit at Anchorages Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. There is growing alarm in Europe that the leaders from Washington and Moscow could emerge with an agreement disastrous for Ukraine and the continents vulnerability to future Russian attack.

In a week of frantic diplomacy, the virtual summit included Trump alongside the leaders of Ukraine, Germany, France, Britain, Finland, Italy, Poland, the European Union and NATO, according to the German government, which has organized the call.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Tuesday. (Danylo Antoniuk / Anadolu via Getty Images)

Zelenskyy attended the meeting in person, having touched down by helicopter in Berlin where he was greeted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. It is the latest of what Zelenskyy says have been more than 30 conversations with world leaders this week.

After the digital gaggle, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told a news conference in Berlin that the meeting had been constructive.

European leaders had made it clear that Ukraine had to be at the table if there were any follow up meetings, and that a ceasefire had to be implemented before those talks took please, he said.

Ukraine was willing to discuss territorial questions, with Russia but illegal recognition of Russian occupied territory is not part of the discussion, he added. Borders might not be changed by violence.

Zelenskyy accused Putin of "bluffing" about his desire to end the war, saying that his Russian counterpart did care about the sanctions that were "hurting" his county's economy.

He added that he wanted a meeting with both Trump and Putin and no talks about Ukraine should exclude Kyiv. "Everything that concerns Ukraine should be discussed exclusively with Ukraine," he said.

The White House is yet to comment, but ahead of the talks Trump described his European colleagues as great people who want to see a deal done in a Truth Social post.

Most European leaders fear that Russia will not stop at the 20% of Ukraine it currently occupies following its 2022 full-scale invasion, and instead may use this land grab from which to launch further attacks on Moscows former Soviet vassals. Putin has described the fall of the USSR as a historic tragedy, and believes the Baltic states, which are now members of the E.U. and NATO, should be brought back within his sphere of influence.

Wednesdays calls are a show of European unity behind Ukraine and other Russian neighbors who fear its next move. E.U. leaders will hold separate telephone discussions before and after the call with Trump, the latter including Canada, indicating the level of coordination between them.

European powers say that there must be a ceasefire before peace talks can begin  something rejected by Russia  and that negotiations cannot happen without Ukraine. They argue Ukraine must have security guarantees, perhaps in the form of Western peacekeepers, so the Kremlin does not use the pause to regroup and attack again.

A damaged residential building following a Russian strike in the town of Bilozerske in Ukraine's Donetsk region Tuesday. (Genya Savilov / AFP via Getty Images)

In reality, it is unclear how much leverage Europe will have. It has regularly been frozen out of U.S.-Russia discussions. And the once-unified position it shared with then-President Joe Biden  who agreed Russia posed a threat not just to Ukraine, but also to the West  has been replaced by the current administrations far more Kremlin-receptive stance, albeit with several verbal diatribes by Trump toward Putin in recent months.

Trump has deep respect for all parties that are involved in this conflict, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told a briefing Tuesday, describing the war as something that broke out between Russia and Ukraine  rather than characterizing it as an unprovoked invasion.

I think the president of the United States getting in the room with the president of Russia  sitting face to face, rather than speaking over the telephone  will give this president the best indication of how to end this war and where this is headed, Leavitt said, calling it a listening exercise.

Carlo Angerer reported from Munich, Alexander Smith reported from London, Daryna Mayer reported from Kyiv, Ukraine, and Andy Eckardt reported from Mainz, Germany.
NEED TO KNOW

A Northern California mother, Jessica Farwell, recalled how she was charged over $100,000 for a visit to the emergency room

In October 2022, her son, Brody, suffered second-degree burns from a rice cooker

After the worried mother drove him to the local hospital, he was transported to the nearest burn unit, resulting in the six-figure hospital bill

A mother is recalling how an emergency room visit for her newborn baby resulted in a six-figure hospital bill.

Jessica Farwell, a resident of Antioch, Calif., told KGO-TV that in October 2022, a rice cooker fell off her kitchen counter and severely burned her infant son, Brody, who was 6 months old at the time.

"His skin, it just instantly bubbled up," she began. "I was just like  is his face going to start bubbling?"

The worried mother then rushed her infant to the nearby hospital, where they gave him fentanyl through his nose because he was screaming.

However, the facility lacked a burn unit and had no ambulances to transport Brody to a hospital with a burn unit. "So they were calling an ambulance, but it was the end of COVID. There wasn't going to be an ambulance for seven hours, she explained.

getty Stock image of a rescue air ambulance helicopter

It was then declared it was medically necessary to transfer Brody to Shriners Children's Hospital in Sacramento. (Antioch is 58 miles south of Sacramento.) To bypass the seven-hour wait for an ambulance, she offered to make the one-hour and 20-minute drive.

"They said, 'No, sorry, you can't  I can't let you leave with him. I've already called the helicopter.' He basically told me there was nothing I could do," Farwell explained.

That's when she was presented with the sole option of a 15-minute helicopter ride that cost nearly $90,000  while being reassured, she told KGO-TV, that she would not receive the bill since the hospital requested the helicopter and she had insurance.

"I was just absolutely terrified to fly  I'm breaking down. He's screaming; it was just awful," she said.

Yet, when they landed at the burn unit's helipad, she was informed that an ambulance ride was required to take them to the hospital entrance, only 0.3 miles away.

"You can see the hospital," Farwell told KGO-TV of the location where they landed. "You literally can walk across the street to the hospital quicker than that ambulance, and they charged me $10,200."

Upon their arrival at the burn unit, her son was treated for his second-degree burns and discharged the next day.

However, Farwell wasnt finished with the experience. A couple of months later, she received the bill for $100,032.

"I couldn't believe my eyes," Farwell said. "You look at the bills, and it's absolutely enraging. We got hit for a $600 waiting fee; there's a fee for it being a nighttime service. There's just every single fee you can think of."

Although the doctors said the bill wouldnt be an issue because of her insurance, she learned that insurance only covered less than half of the helicopter bill and a small portion of the ambulance bill. She was then left to cover $57,929.80 for the helicopter and another $7,327 for the ambulance.

"I've called the hospital, ambulance company, my insurance numerous times," she said. "It's been three years, and then they wouldn't listen to me or talk to me. They just kept giving me the runaround."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

After receiving ongoing calls from collection companies, which led her to search for help on Google, she found KGO-TV, who assisted her and ultimately had the entire bill waived.

"They called, and said, 'It's done, we will never bill you again.' They almost sounded apologetic. I hung up and told my husband. We just couldn't believe it!" Farwell recounted. "It's a miracle!"

In January 2024, California passed the law AB 716, which protects people from receiving surprise bills for ground ambulance services. Since Farwell's incident happened before the law was passed, her ambulance bill was not waived.

Ambulance company Pro Transport-1 told KGO-TV that they felt the "issue still 100% lies with the insurance company simply deciding to pass part of the bill to the patient, we will accept their partial payment and no longer seek the remaining balance of the bill for our services."

When KGO-TV reached out to Blue Cross Blue Shield, the insurer said it could not answer specific questions about Farwell's case, adding, "We are committed to increasing access to safe, appropriate, and effective health care based on the best available information and research, and in accordance with a member's benefit plan."



PEOPLE has reached out to Shriners Children's Hospital and Blue Cross Blue Shield for comment.

Read the original article on People
The Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District, after years of legal contention, finally agreed to release records related to the 2022 mass shooting that killed 19 children and two adults.

While the records did not provide any new information regarding the tragic incident, they showed new insight into the frustration and criticism local officials faced following the shooting. The records show that Uvalde officials faced widespread scrutiny for the delayed response to the shooting at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022.

Uvalde School District Records

It was revealed that none of the 376 law enforcement officers who responded to the scene confronted and killed the gunman until 77 minutes after the shooter entered the school. During that period, many wounded children remained trapped inside a classroom with the assailant.

Because of the lack of outside help, students inside the school were forced to hide near their dead classmates. Additionally, at least one child called 911 to beg for help while dozens of police officers stood and waited in the hallway, according to CNN.

However, there was a slide in an emergency procedures presentation that was included in the release that said, "the actions taken in the initial minutes of an emergency are critical." Officials repeatedly changed their accounts of what happened at the school or who was to blame.

Additionally, grieving families have been demanding answers and records from the school district and local officials. Initially, the district fought to withhold the documents, which included hundreds of pages of exchanges between officials about victims and their families, the academic and disciplinary record of the shooter, and text messages involving former Uvalde school Police Chief Pete Arredondo.

Conversations Between Officials

Some of the messages relating to Arredondo show him talking with others at the district who were sent before the shooting. A message at 9:04 a.m. showed the chief telling officer Adrian Gonzales to "go hang out at the park with the seniors until 11:30," ABC News reported.

Then, a message at 11:40 a.m. that Arredondo received from a district secretary noted that someone reported hearing shots outside of Robb Elementary School. The text read, "They went ahead and locked themselves down."

In one email, a fourth-grade teacher at the school wrote to the district superintendent about how scared she was at the time of the shooting. That was when she was desperately trying to keep her students safe while bullets were ricocheting around her, as per the Texas Tribune.
WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 11: U.S. President Donald Trump appears during a news conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House August 11, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump announced he will use his authority to place the DC Metropolitan Police Department under federal control to assist in crime prevention in the nation's capital, and that the National Guard will be deployed to DC. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

A federal appeals court on Wednesday allowed the Trump administration to block billions of dollars in foreign aid funds.

The legislative branchs Government Accountability Office (GAO) must bring challenges to administration decisions to withhold funding, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals found in a 2-1 decision.

Radical left dark-money groups have been using the court system to seize control of U.S. foreign policy, an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) spokesperson said in a statement to the Daily Caller News Foundation. Todays decision stops these private groups from maliciously interfering with the Presidents ability to spend responsibly and administer foreign aid in a lawful manner and in alignment with his America First policies.

The majority blocked an injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Amir Ali in March that required the administration to restore the frozen funds. A group of grant recipients initially sued in February over President Donald Trumps day-one executive order directing the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to pause foreign aid funding. (RELATED: Justice Alito Stunned By Majoritys Failure To Crack Down On Judicial Hubris Targeting Trump Admin)

The district court erred in granting that relief because the grantees lack a cause of action to press their claims, Judge Karen LeCraft Henderson, a George H.W. Bush appointee, wrote in the majority opinion.

A USAID and American flag fly before Congressional Democrats hold news conference outside of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) headquarters in Washington, DC, on February 3, 2025. (Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Because the grantees lack a cause of action, we need not address on the merits whether the government violated the Constitution by infringing on the Congresss spending power through alleged violations of the 2024 Appropriations Act, the ICA and the Anti-Deficiency Act, Henderson wrote.

The executive branch cannot disobey duly enacted statutes, Judge Florence Pan, a Biden appointee, wrote in a dissent. (RELATED: Lawyer Who Bulletproofed Biden Bucks Now Fighting Trump Admin To Keep Gravy Train Rolling)

Yet that is what the majority enables today, she wrote. The majority opinion thus misconstrues the separation-of-powers claim brought by the grantees, misapplies precedent, and allows Executive Branch officials to evade judicial review of constitutionally impermissible actions.

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.
Courtesy of the designer.



"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



One of Maria McManuss customersa fabulous L.A. woman, as the Irish-bred, New York-based designer describes herrecently confided to her that she has two dry cleaners: one whom she entrusts with her Maria McManus clothes, and one for the rest of her wardrobe. Im sure she owns incredible brands, McManus says. So I was deeply honored that I was part of the chosen few.

That kind of loyalty cant be bought, no matter how many marketing dollars you throw at it. McManus is one of a handful of designers who might not have their names on billboards, but who have painstakingly built a following, becoming a hit with discerning shoppers who prefer realism to runway theatrics. Many of these brands are led, or co-led, by women: Elin Kling of Toteme, Camille Perry and Holly Wright of Tove, Marieke Meulendijks of Rohe, and Frances Howie of Fforme, for example. They lean minimalist, but with enough design innovation to create desirable friction. And theyre modular in nature: Rather than overhauling their aesthetic every season, they keep gradual wardrobe-building in mind, offering new pieces that complement their existing staples.

Courtesy of the designer

For Howie, what she sees on the catwalk doesnt always reflect the reality of contemporary womens lives. If you think about how much change has happened in the last 80 years, the way that women work and juggle a million things, I think we demand something more from our wardrobes, she says. Howie took over at the brand last July and debuted with a fall 2025 collection that actually achieved the editorial trope of going from day to night. For pre-spring 2026, she introduced looks like a white two-piece set in frayed silk. You could pick up your child from school and look rather fabulous, or you could go to a wedding in it, she says. Another multitasking hero piece, a red trench with a pleated back detail, goes through a Cinderella-style transformation if you remove its bolero, turning it into a sleeveless dress.

Howie remains mindful not just of what her designs look like, but what they feel like, something Alber Elbaz inculcated in her when she worked for him at Lanvin. She recalls that Elbaz held model fittings in front of a wall of mirrors to see how a dress would look and move in real life. He didnt really fit the dress. He fitted her in the dress. Theres a difference. Now her team prioritizes comfort: I dont want to look amazing, and actually be suffering. Thats not luxurious to me.

Filippo Fortis - LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

As Net-a-Porters fashion director, Kay Barron applies her discerning eye to thousands of new offerings. Like Howie, she has noticed a disconnect when it comes to some collections. I see their runway shows and the vision that theyve created, and I do think, God, Id love to have that life. How fabulous does that look? she admits. But when it comes to lines like Toteme, Fforme, Tove, Maria McManus, and St. Agni, all of which the e-retailer has seen great success with, she appreciates that theyre rooted in something more solid. Not the fantasy lives we want to have, but the reality, whether thats work and motherhood and everything else thats going on in someones life. You still want to look and feel your best. She also appreciates that theyre not outrageously expensive relative to the rest of the luxury market.

Sonny Vandevelde

For Lara Fells, who designs St. Agni with a small team, her own day-to-day life in the Australian beachside hamlet of Byron Bay helps inform her work. When she cofounded the brand with her husband over a decade ago, everything was very overembellished. It was the height of the boho era. Fells had a counterproposal: pared-back, often neutral-hued staple pieces like structured blazers and trousers, things that you could wear to the office and to sip a cocktail afterward. Fells refreshingly admits to being inspired by her own taste. I feel like it takes a really talented designer to design something that she doesnt want to wear, she says. I cant do that. Thats an extra-special skill.

Courtesy of the designer

For many of these designers, much of their success comes down to the throwback power of word of mouth. In the first five years of her business, Fells says, we did no paid marketing at all. Didnt spend a dollar on ads, nothing, instead preferring to build a following organically. Another old-school method has come in handy for McManus, who doesnt have a brick-and-mortar store: We do a lot of private shopping events at peoples homes. Customers will reach out to us and be like, My girlfriends love your stuff. Can we do an event?

Courtesy of the designer

Tapping into that inner circle has opened them up to an often-overlooked client, the woman who loves fashion and wants to invest in it, but doesnt care to follow the herd. As Howie puts it: My girlfriends who are intelligent, well-read, cultured, love artthey want to feel hot. They want to feel sensual. They want to feel that in a powerful way.



This story appears in the September 2025 issue of ELLE.

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Strong second-quarter results sent shares of Sea, the Singaporean tech company, up 19% in New York trading on Tuesday. Shares are now up more than 60% for the year thus far, even as they remain far from their 2021 highs.

Sea reported revenue of $5.3 billion for the quarter ended June 2025, an almost 40% jump year on year. Net income reached $414.2 million, more than fivefold greater than the $79.9 million profit recorded a year ago.

All three of Seas business divisionse-commerce platform Shopee, video game developer Garena, and fintech unit Moneeposted double-digit percentage point revenue growth.

The momentum from our strong start to 2025 has continued into the second quarter. All three of our businesses have delivered robust, healthy growth, giving us greater confidence of delivering another great year, said CEO Forrest Li in prepared remarks.

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, is still the biggest contributor to Seas business, contributing 72% of total revenue. Shopees gross merchandise value grew 25% over the first half of the year compared with 2024.

Monee, Seas recently rebranded financial services arm, also maintained strong growth. Its loan book expanded by 94% year on year last quarter, reaching $6.9 billion.

Seas success

Sea, No. 15 on the Fortune Southeast Asia 500, has now recorded two straight years of profits, a milestone for the company after a period of painful cost-cutting and restructuring.

On previous earnings calls, Li credited AI tools and its logistics network for improving profitability in Seas e-commerce department.

On Wednesday, Li said that Sea has reached a stage where we can pursue growth opportunities while improving profitability.

One such growth opportunity is Brazil. Shopee expanded to Brazil in 2019, and is now one of the countrys leading e-commerce platforms. On a call with analysts, both Li and CFO Tony Hou were bullish on Seas prospects in Brazil.

Hou said that Sea had meaningful room to grow in Brazil, even as competitors like PDD Holdings Temu and ByteDances TikTok entered the market. Li also pointed to Brazils potential as a market for Seas financial services business, pointing to very good growth in loan book value for the second quarter.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced Hollywood producer whose scandal in 2017 was pivotal in drawing global attention to the #MeToo movement, will be tried for a third time by New York prosecutors in the sexual assault case of Jessica Mann.

New York Judge Curtis Farber said on Wednesday that he wants the trial to take place before the end of this year.

A jury could not render a verdict in June on a rape charge accusing Weinstein of sexually assaulting Mann, a former actor.

Harvey Weinstein appears in Manhattan Criminal Court on April 22, 2025. (Angela Weiss / AFP - Getty Images)

The same jury found Weinstein guilty in June of sexually assaulting former Project Runway production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006 and not guilty of assaulting Polish former runway model Kaja Sokola that same year.

Weinstein's sentencing for the guilty verdict in Haley's case is scheduled for Sept. 30, Farber said.

The judge vowed not to sentence Weinstein on the charge involving Haley until Weinstein is tried again for the charge related to Mann. Therefore, unless Weinstein pleads guilty to that charge, prosecutors drop the charge or the charge is tried before the end of September, Weinstein's sentencing will presumably be pushed to a later date.

At a press conference shortly afterward, an attorney for Weinstein, Arthur Aidala, suggested that prosecutors should drop the charge related to Mann.

"In the big picture, even if Mr. Weinstein got convicted of Jessica Mann, there would probably be very little effect on what his ultimate sentence would be," Aidala said.

He suggested that Weinstein will not plead guilty to the charge because his client "doesnt want the word rape associated with him in any way, shape or form."

Miriam Haley, right, and attorney Gloria Allred outside court in New York on June 11. (Angela Weiss / AFP via Getty Images file)

Weinstein, 73, denied all of the charges. Throughout the retrial, his lawyers insisted the sexual encounters with his three accusers were "transactional" and "consensual," and painted the women as opportunists.

During deliberations, the jury foreman expressed to the judge that the jury member were clashing over reaching a verdict. The foreman told the court that one of the other jurors threatened him and told him: "You know me; you going to see me outside."

The foreman then refused to continue deliberations on the final charge, prompting prosecutors to move for a mistrial.

Weinstein, who co-founded global film studios Miramax and The Weinstein Company, was originally convicted of rape and criminal sexual act by the same court in 2020 and sentenced to 23 years in prison for the crimes.

The landmark sentencing was seen as a watershed moment for the #MeToo movement, which prompted a global reckoning of sexual harassment and abuse.

Last year, however, New York's highest court overturned the conviction, prompting Weinstein's retrial this summer. The state Court of Appeals found that the judge in the 2020 trial prejudiced the jury by allowing women with allegations that did not pertain to the case to testify.

Weinstein was also found guilty by a Los Angeles jury of sexual assault and sentenced to 16 years in state prison, a conviction he is currently appealing.

The once jet-setting, Oscar-winning movie producer has remained in custody at Rikers Island jail, and has frequently been hospitalized due to health issues.
In the quiet town of Shawnee, Oklahoma, the rapid whir of sewing machines fills one of the last surviving American garment factories. Inside, denim from 100% American cotton is cut and sewn by hand into jeans, with a Made in USA tag stitched into every pair.

Founded in 1903, Round House Jeans is Oklahomas oldest manufacturer. Vice President David Antosh, whose family has run the company for over six decades, describes making affordable American-made jeans as both his familys heritage and a way to support his community.

Our No. 1 goal here at Round House Jeans is to make affordable American-made jeans that the average American can buy, explained Antosh, who prices his denim pants at just $70 a pair and says he pays his employees above-market wages. Its a vision that comes at a high cost and low return.

Our profit margins are extremely low, Antosh admitted about his American factory. We make hardly any money on these jeans.

Founded in 1903, Round House Jeans is Oklahomas oldest manufacturer. (TODAY)

The company embodies a lot of President Donald Trumps America first economic ethos, but its also an example of how hard itll be for the president to compel clothing manufacturers to move operations to the United States. Despite higher tariffs intended to reshore manufacturing, scarce and costly skilled labor, limited domestic materials, and outdated technology have made manufacturing overseas both cheaper and more efficient.

Antosh acknowledged he also sells jeans sewn in Bangladesh at far higher margins. He said the higher profits from those imported jeans subsidize the price of his American-made products and pay for his Shawnee factory.

A pair of American-made jeans that Round House sells for $70 carries a 5% margin or less, meaning they cost above $66 to produce. By comparison, apparel retailers typically aim for at least 30% margin on products, according to Anna Livermore, CEO of V. Mora, a fashion consulting firm. Many target margins well above that, she said.

Antosh said his biggest challenge is building his sewing workforce. With so few U.S. apparel companies still operating, experienced workers are hard to find. He trains every new hire from scratch, which is a process that can take months or years before theyre fully productive. Its a very highly skilled job that requires a lot of patience, a lot of learning, he said.

A pair of American-made jeans that Round House sells for $70 carries a 5% margin or less, meaning they cost above $66 to produce. (TODAY)

Despite the above-market pay attracting plenty of applicants, about three-quarters of new hires quit within the first few months, unable to handle the demands of the job.

By contrast, his Bangladesh-sewn jeans, which are still made with 100% American cotton, sell for $40 a pair, nearly half the price of the U.S.-made version, but deliver far higher margins of 20%.

Round House has been hesitant to raise prices on its American-made jeans, both out of principle and fear of the consequences. Every time we have a price increase, we hear from customers who say Id love to buy American-made but can no longer afford it, Antosh said. He has seen competitors go out of business after price hikes drove customers away. According to a Conference Board survey released Monday, the appeal of Made in USA has faded since 2022, as many Americans now link it to higher costs amid higher price sensitivity.

Among the top goals for Trump and his administration in hitting trading partners with steep tariffs is bringing manufacturing capacity back to the U.S., even if it comes at the price of short-term market and economic duress. But Antosh said tariffs wont help his company.

Round House has been hesitant to raise prices on its American-made jeans, out of both principle and fear of the consequences. (TODAY)

Its a hardship for us, Antosh said. When jeans sewn outside the U.S. become more expensive from tariffs, we cant subsidize our American-made jeans as much and their price must go up, meaning fewer customers can afford Made-in-USA.

Clothing imports already faced tariffs of 12%-17% before Trumps presidency, according to the United States Fashion Industry Association. An additional 20% reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi products, which became effective Aug. 7, would chip away at Round Houses profits. But even with the added tariffs, producing jeans in Bangladesh still costs far less than in the U.S. Antosh maintained that even with a hypothetical 100% tariff, Bangladeshi production would still come out cheaper than making the same jeans in Oklahoma.

Only 2.5% of clothing sold in America is produced domestically, according to AllAmerican.org, a U.S. manufacturing advocacy group. The rest is imported from places like China, Vietnam, India and Bangladesh, where labor is much cheaper. In the 1990s, U.S. apparel factories employed almost a million people. Today, that number has dropped below 100,000.

The U.S. lacks the capacity, materials and technology to meet fashion companies sourcing needs, said Sheng Lu, a professor of fashion and apparel studies at the University of Delaware. He also sees no clear evidence that tariff policies have driven fashion companies to source more domestically. In his 2025 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study, over 80% of apparel companies said they plan to diversify sourcing to offset tariffs, while just 17% expect to increase sourcing from the U.S.

Vice President David Antosh said his biggest challenge is building his sewing workforce. With so few U.S. apparel companies still operating, experienced workers are hard to find. (TODAY)

Another challenge for U.S. apparel manufacturing is its inability to produce a wide range of goods, said Joseph Ng, CEO of Shift Fashion Group, a consultancy that works with manufacturers. Aside from a handful of luxury brands, most U.S.-made apparel is limited to basic items like T-shirts, hoodies and socks, due to the fact that American factories dont have the skill set, machinery or materials to make anything beyond that, Ng explained.

Ng pointed to Louis Vuittons Texas factory as an example of how brands attempting more complex products face steep challenges. Opened in 2019 during Trumps first presidency, the luxury brands facility produces designer handbags but has a defect rate far higher than the industry norm, making it the companys worst-performing facility, according to a report from Reuters.

To stay in business, Round House keeps things simple. We dont chase the latest fashion, Antosh said. Were always about making things very similar to how we always have, even 100 years ago. Chasing fast-changing fashion trends, he said, would require frequent retraining, making U.S. production inefficient and unsustainable.

Round Houses slim U.S. margins leave little room for error, Ng said.

If he only had that business, hed be one mess-up away from going out of business, Ng cautioned, noting that garment manufacturing has multiple potential points of failure. A single mistake, such as misplacing rivets on a batch of jeans, could wipe out what little profit there is.

But Antosh said the goal has never been about maximizing profits. His focus is on preserving his family companys heritage, keeping American manufacturing alive and sustaining his community with good jobs. As a testament to his commitment to his employees, many of his workers have stuck around for decades.

Theres very few factories like ours that still exist, Antosh said. I dont know if anyone else could be making affordable American-made jeans, like we do. Thats our reason for existence. If we werent here, offering it at this price point, who would be?
An image provided by the West Midlands Police shows Aimee Betro leaving the country the day after the assassination attempt. - West Midlands Police

An American woman who was hired by her British lover as a would-be assassin, but then botched the attack and spent five years on the run, has been found guilty of conspiracy to murder.

Aimee Betro, 44, from Wisconsin, attempted to shoot a man dead outside his home in Birmingham, England, on September 7, 2019, but failed because her gun jammed  leaving her would-be victim to escape unscathed through sheer luck, according to prosecutor Hannah Sidaway, from the Crown Prosecution Service in the West Midlands.

After a case that spanned continents and involved multiple crime agencies, including the FBI and the National Crime Agency, Betro was convicted Tuesday at Birmingham Crown Court.

The court had heard that, despite living thousands of miles away, Betro had become entangled in a family revenge plot arranged by father and son, Mohammed Aslam and Mohammed Nazir, from Derbyshire, England.

Mohammed Nazir and Mohammed Aslam - West Midlands Police

The plot stemmed from a fight the pair had with the owner of a clothing store in Birmingham in 2018.

The court heard how the dispute with the store owner, Aslat Mahumad, led the two men to conspire to kill him, or a member of his family, the UKs PA Media news agency reported.

His son, Sikander Ali, was the eventual target and victim, according to PA. Aslam and Nazir were jailed for their role in the murder plot last year, West Midlands Police said in a statement. Nazir was sentenced to 32 years in prison while Aslam landed 10 years, according to the CPS.

Only Betro knows what truly motivated her or what she sought to gain from becoming embroiled in a crime that meant she travelled hundreds of miles from Wisconsin to Birmingham to execute an attack on a man she did not know. The jury clearly agreed this was a planned hit which failed, the prosecutor said.

Dating App Match to Murderer for Hire

Over the three-week trial, the court heard how Betro met her lover Nazir on a dating app in late 2018 and flew to meet him in person that Christmas, before returning to the US in January 2019, PA reported.

In August 2019, she traveled to the UK again to carry out the planned killing the following month. On the day of the attack, Betro disguised herself in a niqab and waited outside her victims house in a Mercedes purchased earlier that day, the CPS said.

As the man pulled up to his home in his Black SUV, CCTV captured Betro leaving her vehicle, firearm in hand, and attempting to fire shots. As the weapon jammed, the man was able to escape in his car, reversing at speed and clipping the Mercedes door on the way out of the cul-de-sac, according to the CPS.

After the bungled attempt, the hitwoman abandoned her vehicle nearby, before returning to the property hours later in a taxi, the CPS detailed. She fired three bullets through the windows of the house, including a bedroom window.

Aimee Betro - West Midlands Police

She then returned to her taxi, from which she sent taunting messages from a burner phone to the victims father, reading Where are you hiding, and Stop playing hide n seek youre lucky it jammed.

The damaged Mercedes was later recovered with a key piece of evidence inside, a black glove containing Betros DNA, the CPS said.

Betro fled the UK within hours of the shooting. She was joined in the US three days later by her lover and co-conspirator, Nazir. The pair orchestrated another revenge plot, involving sending illegal ammunition to a man in Derby, England, in the hopes he would be arrested, according to West Midlands Police.

The Wisconsin-native then decided to hideout in Armenia, where she was tracked down by Armenian police in July 2024 and extradited, the CPS said.

This was a complex investigation and extradition process which required bringing together multiple agencies including the National Crime Agency and Armenian Courts. We worked together to make sure we had a watertight prima facie case in order to lawfully arrest Aimee Betro in a foreign country without her becoming aware and potentially fleeing again, John Sheehan, head of the CPS Extradition unit, said.

Betro will be sentenced on Thursday, August 21.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker BlueRoomStream

(The Center Square)  Illinois Democrats say their party will win across the United States in 2026, with the Land of Lincoln serving as the blueprint.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker spoke at the Illinois Democratic County Chairs Association brunch Wednesday morning before hosting Governors Day on the Lawn at the Illinois State Fair in the afternoon.

Pritzker said Democrats will win in 2026, and the rest of the country will live out what Illinois is experiencing.

And what Ill say to those who are wondering whats next for the Democratic Party is this: Shes alive and well and stronger than ever, living right here in the great state of Illinois, Pritzker said.

Lieutenant Gov. Juliana Stratton asked the crowd of people how many of them said they were glad they lived in Illinois, in the midst of chaos coming from Washington.

It is why the country looks at us as an example, because Illinois is the blueprint, Stratton said.

U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, served as guest speaker at the IDCCA brunch.

Jeffries said President Donald Trump promised to lower costs on Day One.

We have to lower the high cost of living in the United States of America and we need to do it now, Jeffries said.

The New York Democrat said the President is pretending to care about public safety in Washington, D.C.

The biggest crime spree that hurts everyday Americans right now is at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Jeffries said.

Jeffries also called out U.S. House Republicans, including Illinois U.S. Rep. Mary Miller.

Who knew I would miss John Boehner and Paul Ryan so much? Jeffries asked.

Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez welcomed Democrats to the Governors Day afternoon event in Springfield.

Hernandez called out the states GOP and said Republicans were taking away our food and scapegoating immigrants.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul, wearing an AFL-CIO shirt, told the crowd that President Trump was stealing their money.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recognized several Illinois officials who are not seeking reelection next year: Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and U.S. Reps. Jan Schakowsky and Danny Davis.

Giannoulias also said he could not be more proud that his governor is J.B. Pritzker.

He always fights for the people, Giannoulias said.

Pritzker said Republicans, not Democrats were raising taxes.

Republicans have raised tariff taxes on the average American family by $2,400 each, Pritzker said.

According to the Illinois Policy Institute, Pritzker has enacted over 50 tax hikes since he took office.

The governor closed with his frequent rallying cry.

Are you ready for the fight? Pritzker asked twice.

Lets go get em everybody. Thank you all for being here today.

Republicans have their rally at the fair Thursday.
Allrecipes / Diana Chistruga

If you grew up in an Italian household like me, chances are your family has strong opinions about the age-old debate: Is it "sauce" or "gravy"? My moms side of the family is proudly Team Gravy, while my dads insists its sauce, because "gravy" is for roast beef.

No matter who you side with, one thing is never up for debate: My moms gravy always hits the spot. Ill admit Im a tad biased, but I learned from one of the best cooks on the face of the planetmy Italian mom, who learned from my grandma, who learned from my great grandma Santuccistraight from Sassinoro in the Province of Benevento, Italy.

My Italian Mom's Pasta Sauce or "Gravy"

Im not exaggerating when I say my moms gravy (or pasta sauce) is so darn deliciousand the aroma truly speaks for itself. To paint the picture: Growing up, and still to this day, my neighbors always knew which morning was gravy day because the aroma of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil simmering on the stove wafted out of our windows and into our cozy little neighborhood. Lets just say passersby would hover.

Even now, my clothes never fail to smell like my moms gravy whenever I leave my childhood homeand Im totally not mad about it.

The Secret Ingredient

One of the best parts about Moms gravy? Its pretty simple to prepare once you get familiar with it. The recipe calls for just five ingredientswhole tomatoes, diced onion and garlic, fresh basil, and extra-virgin olive oilplus salt and pepper to taste.

The real family secret, though, is using the same wooden spoon for gravy-making each Sunday. (I could honestly pick my moms worn-down spoon out of a lineup of dozens!)

My mom was taught the wooden spoon adds flavor to the saucepot after pot seasons the wood and gives back a little Italian love to each batch. Her sauce always comes out one way, and my grandmas came out a little bit differenteven though everyone in the family makes it the same way. Maybe its the spoon!

That said, this wooden spoon is not only seasoned with many years of gravy stirring; its symbolic of my mommy best friendand carrying on one of our familys most beloved traditions. Theres something so heartwarming about passing down a family recipe and wooden spoon; even when the elder generations are no longer with us, their roots and labors of love live on.

How To Make Moms Pasta Gravy Recipe

Ingredients:

4 cans whole San Marzano tomatoes

1 whole yellow onion, diced

4 generous tablespoons garlic, diced

1 generous handful fresh basil

Extra-virgin olive oil, enough to generously cover bottom of pot

Salt and pepper, to taste



Instructions:

Cover the bottom of a large pot with EVOO. Add diced onions. When they start to brown, add chopped garlic. Put tomatoes in the blender, then through a food mill to get rid of seeds and blend thoroughly. To save time, use a can of tomato pureetomatoes already pureed and strained to remove the seeds and skin. Just dont tell my mom! Add tomatoes to a large pot and bring to a boil. Stir frequently so the tomatoes do not burn. Boil gently covered for about 5 minutes, then reduce to a simmer. Add basil and simmer for 1 hour. Be sure to stir with your wooden spoon every 15 minutes so the gravy does not burn.



Read the original article on ALLRECIPES
As deadly wildfires raged across Southern California in January, a Los Angeles city official lamented to the city council and others how they were forced to listen to hateful, vulgar language from some members of the public.

He thanked the audience for their patience in listening to one man's tirade in which he yelled "burn, Palisades, burn!" and used the N-word to describe council members.

It was far from an isolated incident.

A small group of people have repeatedly shown up to comment at the council meetings, spewing the N-word and C-word while ranting about everything from the city's homeless crisis to mask-wearing and the 2028 Olympics.

Council members finally had enough.

In late July, they passed a motion banning the public from using those two words during council meetings, despite warnings from First Amendment groups that the move could put the city on a slippery slope toward unconstitutional censorship.

Already, the ban is getting put to the test.

Just two days after the council passed the new rule, a man used the N-word three times in less than 10 seconds during his three minutes of speaking time.

Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson asked the clerk to pause his time.

Speaker, you have used the N-word, which is a violation of Council Rule 7, Harris-Dawson said. This is your only warning that this word and any of its variations described in Council Rule 7 may not be used again in this council meeting, any future council meeting, or future council committee meetings.

Los Angeles city hall is seen here in June during protests against federal immigration sweeps.

If the man continued to use the term, Harris-Dawson said, he would risk forfeiting the rest of his speaking time and being removed from the meeting.

The council's motion said the N-word and the C-word, a crude term often used to disparage women, are the most frequently used offensive and injurious epithets at city council meetings.

It said such words are inherently harmful, citing the U.S. Supreme Courts 1942 decision in Chaplinsky v. New Hampshire. The ruling said some terms by their very utterance inflict injury or tend to incite an immediate breach of the peace.

Such fighting words, the court found, are not protected by the First Amendment. That's the argument city officials are making to justify the ban. These aren't ordinary words, city officials say.

Under the new rule, a speaker who uses the term will first receive a verbal warning. If they use it again, the presiding officer will again tell them they cannot use such language and indicate that the need to reissue the warning has disrupted the meeting, therefore allowing the council to cut off the speaker. The speaker may also be removed from the proceedings and banned from future meetings, according to the motion.

It specifies that violations of the rule would not invoke criminal or financial penalties.

'The cost is too high,' First Amendment group says

Free speech groups have raised concerns about the rule and its First Amendment implications.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) urged the council not to adopt the measure, saying in an April 29 letter that the rule would implement an unconstitutional solution when better alternatives that do not infringe on the speech rights of your constituents are available.

Likewise, the First Amendment Coalition, a nonprofit organization that focuses on First Amendment issues in California, wrote a similarly worded letter to the council raising concerns. The group said it "understands and sympathizes" with the city over the words and their impact on the community.

Still, the group said the rule violates the First Amendment and opens the city up to lawsuits.

"As with other ill-fated attempts to silence offensive speech, that result would amplify the objectionable message and allow those who utter it to claim victory as defenders of free speech," the group wrote. "Also, the first victim of censorship is rarely the last, and attempts at restricting offensive speech often lead to censorship of those they are intended to protect."

But the councils motion, which was presented in March and passed on July 30, argued that action was necessary because the terms had been used and disrupted the meetings on many occasions. The sergeants-at-arms prevented fights that were on the cusp of breaking out on at least two occasions, the motion said.

It acknowledged that the council faces competing duties in being obligated to hear from the public and give them opportunities to exercise their First Amendment rights while still protecting council members and others in attendance at the meetings.

It is understandable, given the rough and tumble of city council hearings, why governments would want rules of decorum, said Ben Wizner, director of the American Civil Liberties Unions Speech, Privacy and Technology Project. The problem is, the cost is too high, and it gives them too much authority to suppress and censor opposing views.

But a spokesperson for Harris-Dawson said the measure was not meant to suppress free speech.

This is not a ban on offensive speech in general, nor does it limit the public's right to criticize, protest, or speak passionately, the spokesperson said. Instead, it draws a line at language that, by consistent and documented use, has disrupted the Council's ability to conduct public business and discouraged public participation.

Los Angeles City Council meetings compared to Jerry Springer

Harris-Dawsons spokesperson described the ban as a narrowly focused rule meant to prevent disruptions and maintain a civil environment.

These slurs are not being restricted because of the viewpoints they may express, but because they have repeatedly incited disruption, escalated tensions and silenced the participation of others, the spokesperson said.

Right before council meeting broadcasts begin, a disclaimer warns that the following content may contain offensive language not suitable for some audiences and that viewer discretion is advised.

Its almost like youre about to watch an episode of Jerry Springer, said Stephanie Jablonsky, FIRE's senior program counsel for public advocacy.

During the councils July 30 meeting, a member of the public repeatedly used both terms and said the council could make him a millionaire after he sues on free speech grounds. The council voted in 2014 to settle a free speech lawsuit brought by a man who was kicked out of a city commission meeting for wearing a Ku Klux Klan hood and shirt emblazoned with the N-word.

Los Angeles Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, seen here in 2019.

Another man used the N-word several times in condemning the rule, along with a call to send the Jews back to Israel and a reference to President Donald Trumps administration being the only America of constitutional betterment.

Kathy Schreiner, the president of the Van Nuys Neighborhood Council, which urged the city council to pass the measure, said her groups meetings have also been disrupted by such language.

Schreiner said she has "frequently been called the C-word" since starting her position in December 2022. The council's former president, Michael Browning, was also frequently called the N-word in meetings throughout his two-year tenure, she wrote.

The (Van Nuys Neighborhood Council) has an unusually small attendance from the public at our meetings, and we know that one major reason is how difficult it is to sit through meetings where so many vulgar and nasty public comments are made, Schreiner said.

She requested the city council explore whether there is some way you could help prohibit the use of these epithets at all Neighborhood Council Board and Committee meetings.

The Palms Neighborhood Council also asked the city council to pass the ban and apply the same changes to Neighborhood Council meetings. Both city and neighborhood council meetings attract people who are able to disrupt discussions for sport using vile language and pointless hate speech, the statement read.

Transparency in government is crucial, and stakeholders must be allowed to criticize the work of government without fear of reprisal, the statement went on to say. But this process is actually degraded and undermined when individuals with no productive aims destroy the public dialogue and engagement with hate speech targeted only at blowing up the process.

City says rule about preserving access, 'not censoring ideas'

But the First Amendment exists for this exact reason, Jablonsky said.

The remedy, in her view, is to punish the disruption and not the speaker. Though certain terms may be offensive and harmful to many people, Jablonsky said its vital to resist any efforts to ban words.

If we dont, we are setting a dangerous precedent for government to regulate what we say, she said. Any inch they are given will absolutely get used.

Wizner agreed, saying the only speech that needs constitutional protection is speech that deeply offends."

The American Civil Liberties Unions 2024 article, Defending Speech We Hate, noted that the organization has defended the free speech rights of numerous groups it strongly disagrees with  among them neo-Nazis, white supremacists and the National Rifle Association.

Our view is if the First Amendment doesnt protect the NRA in New York, it doesnt protect the ACLU in Texas, Wizner said.

But the council has maintained that its actions are both legal and necessary to address terms that have repeatedly incited disruption, escalated tensions and silenced the participation of others at meetings.

Just like courtrooms and school board meetings, Council Chambers are limited public forums where reasonable time, place, and manner rules apply, Harris-Dawson's spokesperson said. This motion is about preserving access and safety for everyone, not censoring ideas, but safeguarding the ability of all residents to speak and be heard without intimidation or verbal abuse.

BrieAnna Frank is a First Amendment Reporting Fellow at USA TODAY. Reach her at bjfrank@usatoday.com.

USA TODAY's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Funders do not provide editorial input.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LA bans N-word, C-word at council meetings, sparking free speech debate
A New York state man was charged with stalking and harassing loved ones of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, authorities said Wednesday.

Shane Daley, 40, was arrested and accused of "sending harassing and threatening voicemail messages to a family member" of Thompson, according to federal prosecutors in Albany.

They said the menacing calls were made from Dec. 4 to Dec. 7 in the hours just after Thompson was gunned down in midtown Manhattan.

"In a series of voicemail messages, Daley used threatening and harassing language that focused on, among other things, Thompsons killing, expressed satisfaction over the fact and manner of his death, and stated that the victim and Thompsons children deserved to meet the same violent end," prosecutors said in a statement.

Thompson's slaying sparked waves of callous praise online immediately after the shooting.

Daley is from Galway, New York, about 35 miles northwest of Albany, the state capital.

Daleys attorney Samuel Breslin, declined comment.

No one picked up the phone on Wednesday afternoon at publicly listed phone numbers for Daley and his parents.

Daley was released from custody under GPS monitoring and prohibitions against possessing firearms or consuming alcohol, a spokesperson for federal prosecutors said.

Daley is scheduled to appear in court again Thursday afternoon, when additional conditions of his release are expected to be added, the spokesperson said.

The cyberstalking charge carries a maximum term of five years in prison, officials said.

Christopher Raia, assistant director in charge of the FBI's New York office, said Daley's calls were "more than callous and cold-hearted."

"They were threatening and terrified a family already suffering following the violent death of their loved one," he said.

Thompson was gunned down at about 6:44 a.m. on Dec. 4 on Sixth Avenue, near the New York Hilton Midtown, touching off a massive manhunt throughout the Northeast.

Luigi Mangione was arrested on Dec. 9 in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and brought back to New York City where he's facing both state and federal charges.
A Maryland house fire claimed the lives of four children and two adults as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the sudden blaze.

Officials said that nine people were linked to the house that burned down, and among the survivors, two were able to get out of the house while two others were away. Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire said that while the cause of the incident is still under investigation, they determined the fire originated on the right side of the house within an enclosed porch.

Maryland House Fire

On Sunday afternoon, authorities brought heavy machinery to the area to help remove debris. Reports noted that it took fire officials more than an hour to get the home fire under control. The Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department and other nearby departments initially responded to reports of a dwelling fire with a reported entrapment.

Crews with the Charles County Volunteer Fire and Emergency Medical Services and officials from the Deputy State Fire Marshals and Charles County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene of the fire and are still looking for other survivors, according to WTOP News.

There was also one firefighter who had to be sent to the hospital for an emergency, while another first responder was seen being treated at the scene. The fire marshal added that they were not yet able to confirm whether or not the home had smoke alarms.

They noted that the tragic incident serves as a reminder to ensure locals have working alarms inside their homes so they can be alerted in advance. The marshal underscored that the public should conduct their own fire drills so that people know what to do in emergencies.

Investigating the Tragic Incident

Alkire added that this particular house fire marks the deadliest one in Maryland in the last decade. He said that the house was built in a year when the family that owns it should have had hard-wired smoke alarms, The Guardian reported.

There was a separate case where a 14-year-old boy died in a fire at a disused industrial unit. The victim was later identified as Layton Carr, whose body was found inside a building on Fairfield Industrial Park, in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead, on May 2.

In the weeks after that incident, authorities arrested 26 children aged between 11 and 14 on suspicion of manslaughter. Four of these individuals were told they would face no further action, while the remaining 22 remain on bail, as per BBC.
USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.

A new themed meal is taking customers back. Back to "McDonaldland," that is.

The "McDonaldland" meal, an homage to the fast-food chain's whimsical and fictional world, made its debut at participating restaurants nationwide on Tuesday, Aug. 12. The new menu offering, which includes a colorful shake and limited-edition "souvenir," will only be available for a limited time.

According to an Aug. 5 news release, McDonaldland is a promotional fantasy world that debuted in 1971 and was featured in commercials and other media.

In the imaginary world of McDonaldland, hamburgers grow on patches and apple pies grow on trees, which they say makes it the perfect place for Ronald McDonald and his friends to grab a quick bite.

"Now the gang is back together, and fans can rediscover the epic world and its characters or experience it for the first time  all through the meal," the McDonald's statement says.

Here's what to know about McDonald's "McDonaldland" meal, including what is in it.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

'McDonaldland' meal, merch

The McDonaldland meal including the Mt. McDonaldland shake is to be available at McDonald's nationwide for a limited time starting Aug. 12, 2025.

Customers can choose between two versions of the "McDonaldland" meal, which includes a side of fries, a Mt. McDonaldland shake and a choice of a Quarter Pounder with Cheese or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets.

The Mt. McDonaldland shake was inspired by the "vibrant blue lava and pink clouds of Mt. McDonaldland, a volcano from McDonaldland, the release says.

According to McDonald's, every "McDonaldland" meal comes with one of six exclusive collectible tins, featuring postcards, stickers and more. Each is inspired by a different character.

McDonald's also announced the launch of limited-edition merch inspired by McDonaldland through collaborations with trendy clothing brand Pacsun and travel retailer Away.

The PacSun collaboration will feature sweat sets and graphic tees available Tuesday, Aug. 12, while the Away collaboration will include luggage tags and bag charms available starting Monday, Aug. 18, while supplies last, McDonald's said.

New Happy Meal features Hello Kitty, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

McDonald's is releasing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Hello Kitty and Friends Happy Meal.

McDonald's "McDonaldland" meal might be inspired by characters of the past, but a new Happy Meal is paying tribute to characters of the present.

A new Happy Meal featuring Hello Kitty and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles also made its debut at McDonald's on Aug. 12. It, like the "McDonaldland" meal, will only be available for a limited time.

The themed meal for children will include special figurines, consisting of "a wild fusion of your favorite TMNT heroes and the Hello Kitty crew." According to McDonald's, each Happy Meal will include one of 12 figurine options and a character card describing "their unique skills and story."

The signature Happy Meal boxes will feature graphics of both the fighting reptiles and the feline-like girl, which can be seen on the promotional materials obtained by USA TODAY. It can be purchased in person or through the McDonald's app at participating restaurants.

Contributing: Melina Khan, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'McDonaldland' meal now available at McDonald's. What to know.
Meghan Markle Accidentally Reveals Too Much About Prince Harry originally appeared on Parade.

Meghan Markle recently shared an unexpected tidbit about Prince Harry that might just change how you see the royal familys most laid-back member.

The Duchess of Sussex dropped a bombshell while filming season two of her Netflix series With Love, Meghan, and it involves her husband's rather particular food preferences.

On August 12, the 44-year-old royal released the first official trailer for the upcoming season, giving fans a sneak peek into her kitchen adventures with surprise guests, including renowned chef Jose Andres.

"You know who doesn't like lobster? My husband," Meghan casually revealed about Prince Harry, 40, while cooking alongside the celebrity chef.

Andres' response was accurate, "And you married him anyway?" he questioned, prompting Meghan to burst into laughter.

The moment has social media buzzing with one burning question  who doesn't love lobster? Comment sections across social media platforms are filled with fans expressing their shock at Harry's seafood stance.

Some are joking about it being grounds for divorce, while others are defending his right to dislike the fancy crustacean.

This food confession isn't Meghan's first time spilling about her family's eating habits. The duchess has been candid about what actually happens in their kitchen at home.

Speaking with People, she opened up about what her husband and kids will eat. "My husband and Archie both love fried eggs," she said.

"There's a lot of bacon around here. And then sometimes you don't have time for all that, and you just put a frozen waffle in the toaster and call it a day. And there's no shame in that either."

The new trailer revealed that season two will premiere on Tuesday, August 26, promising even more entertaining moments and celebrity appearances. The second season of With Love, Meghan will feature an impressive lineup including Chrissy Teigen, Tan France, David Chang, Samin Nosrat, Christina Tosi, Clare Smyth, Jay Shetty and Radhi Devlukia.

The lobster revelation comes at an exciting time for the couple's media ventures. The new trailer dropped just after Meghan and Harry's partnership with Netflix was extended into a multi-year, first-look deal, signaling more content to come.

"We're proud to extend our partnership with Netflix and expand our work together to include the As ever brand," Meghan said in a statement. "My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision."

Meghan Markle Accidentally Reveals Too Much About Prince Harry first appeared on Parade on Aug 12, 2025

This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
FILE - Mexican federal police escort who they identify as Servando "La Tuta" Gomez," leader of the Knights Templar cartel, as he sits inside helicopter at a Federal hanger in Mexico City, Feb. 27, 2015. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Mexico sent 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States Tuesday in the latest major deal with the Trump administration as American authorities ratchet up pressure on criminal networks smuggling drugs across the border.

Those handed over to U.S. custody include Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, a leader of Los Cuinis, a group closely aligned with notorious cartel Jalisco New Generation or CJNG. Another defendant, Roberto Salazar, is wanted in connection to the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy. Other prominent figures have ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and other violent drug trafficking groups.

The transfers are a milestone for the Trump administration, which is made dismantling dangerous drug cartels a key Justice Department priority. Its the second time in months that Mexico has expelled cartel figures accused of narcotics smuggling, murder and other crimes amid mounting pressure from the Trump administration to curb the flow of drugs onto American streets.

These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores  under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country, Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. We are grateful to Mexicos National Security team for their collaboration in this matter.

The cartel figures were put on planes to the U.S. after the Justice Department agreed not to seek the death penalty against any of the defendants or against any cartel leaders and members sent to the U.S. in February. That transfer was of 29 cartel figures, including drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who was behind the killing of a U.S. DEA agent in 1985.

This transfer is yet another example of what is possible when two governments stand united against violence and impunity, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson said in a statement. These fugitives will now face justice in U.S. courts, and the citizens of both of our nations will be safer from these common enemies.

The February transfers came as Mexican officials were trying to head off the Trump administrations threat of imposing tariffs on Mexican imports. Late last month, President Donald Trump spoke with Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum and agreed to put off threatened 30% tariffs for another 90 days to allow for negotiations.

Sheinbaum has shown a willingness to cooperate more on security than her predecessor, specifically being more aggressive in pursuit of Mexicos cartels. But she has drawn a clear line when it comes to Mexicos sovereignty, rejecting suggestions by Donald Trump and others of intervention by the U.S. military.

Also included in the group expelled Tuesday was Servando Gomez Martinez, also known as La Tuta, a former school teacher who became one of Mexicos most-wanted drug lords as head of the Knights Templar cartel. He was captured in 2015 and sentenced to 55 years in a Mexican prison in June 2019.

Gomez led the quasi-religious criminal group that once exercised absolute control over Michoacan and he liked to appear in interviews and videos. The cartel orchestrated politics, controlled commerce, dictated rules and preached a code of ethics around devotion to God and family, even as it murdered and plundered.

Abigael Gonzalez Valencia is the brother-in-law of CJNG leader Nemesio Ruben El Mencho Oseguera Cervantes, a top target of the U.S. government. Abigael Gonzalez Valencia was arrested in February 2015 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and had been fighting extradition to the United States since then. The U.S. government has offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to El Mencho's arrest or conviction.

Alongside his two brothers, Abigael Gonzalez Valencia led Los Cuinis, which financed the the founding and growth of the CJNG, one of the most powerful and dangerous cartels in Mexico. CJNG traffics hundreds of tons of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into the United States and other countries and is known for extreme violence, murders, torture, and corruption.

One of his brothers, Jose Gonzalez Valencia, was sentenced in Washingtons federal court in June to 30 years in a U.S. prison after pleading guilty to international cocaine trafficking. Jose Gonzalez Valencia was arrested in 2017 under the first Trump administration at a beach resort in Brazil while vacationing with his family under a fake name.

_____

Verza reported from Mexico City
President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he will seek more permanent federal control of the Washington, D.C., police force as he continues his efforts to ramp-up crime enforcement in the nation's capital.

Earlier this week, Trump announced his plans to deploy National Guard troops in the nation's capital, declaring a public safety emergency in order to put the Washington police department under federal control and station the National Guard on the city's streets. Trump's current control of the D.C. police force expires in 30 days, after which Congress would have to weigh in.

Asked Wednesday whether he'd work with Congress to extend the emergency authorization allowing him to temporarily seize control of local law enforcement, Trump said he'll ask Congress for a "long-term" extension of federal authority over the Washington police force.

"We're going to be asking for extensions on that  long-term extensions, because you can't have 30 days," Trump said at an event at the Kennedy Center.

Trump indicated at one point that he'd ask Congress for more funds to fight crime and to make repairs to Washington's streets and parks.

"We're going to make Washington beautiful. We're going to redo roads. We're going to redo the medians. The pavers and the medians are all throughout the city. We're going to take all the graffiti off. We're going to have to remove the tents. And the people that are living in our parks, we're going to be redoing the parks, the grasses and all. We're going to be going to Congress for a relatively small amount of money. And [Senate Budget Committee chair and GOP Sen.] Lindsey [Graham] and the Republicans are going to be approving it," Trump said.

MORE: What to know about DC Home Rule Act as Trump puts DC police under federal control

Trump has long threatened to take control of Washington, saying he wants to crack down on violent crime in the District although police statistics show that in the past two years, violent crime has gone down.

"Fighting crime is a good thing. We have to explain we're going to fight crime  that's a good thing," Trump said Wednesday. "Already they're saying, 'He's a dictator,' he said, referring to Democrats. "The place is going to hell. We've got to stop it. So, instead of saying, 'He's a dictator,' they should say, 'We're going to join him and make Washington safe.'"

Staff Sgt. Deonte Rowell/AU.S. Army - PHOTO: A convoy of soldiers assigned to the 273rd Military Police Company, Washington, D.C. National Guard, arrive at the National Mall to conduct patrol operations, August 12, 2025.

"We're going to be essentially crime-free. This is going to be a beacon, and it's going to also serve as an example of what can be done," Trump said.

Staff Sgt. Deonte Rowell/U.S. Army - PHOTO: U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, the Adjutant General of the District of Columbia Army National Guard, visits with soldiers assigned to the 273rd Military Police Company, during patrol operations at the National Mall, August 12, 2025.

Sgt. Joseph Spraktes/U.S. Army - PHOTO: Soldiers assigned to the 273rd Military Police Company, Washington, D.C. National Guard, patrol the National Mall, in Washington, August 12, 2025.

Win McNamee/Getty Images - PHOTO: A member of the DC National Guard joins his unit near the Washington Monument on August 12, 2025 in Washington.

National Guard troops began deploying in larger numbers along the National Mall overnight, according to a person familiar with the plan.

According to a person familiar with the effort, the latest plan calls for sending the activated Army soldiers to spots around the National Mall in the middle of the night so they will be visible to D.C. residents by Friday morning.

Officials said the Trump administration is still in the process of setting up a joint task force, which will be led by Army Col. Larry Doane. While the task force is expected to include 800 activated soldiers, D.C. residents won't see that many on the streets.

The troops will work in shifts of 100 to 200 troops at a time, and some of them will be assigned to administrative or logistical roles in support of local law enforcement, officials told ABC News.

ABC News producers did not see any National Guard or increased law enforcement presence around Washington Wednesday afternoon  including around the National Mall, D.C. Armory or in Logan Circle where a man was gunned down and killed earlier this week.

A White House official told ABC News that, beginning Wednesday night, officials expected a "significantly higher National Guard presence to be on the ground throughout Washington, D.C." The White House official added that beginning Wednesday night, the deployment will transition to round-the-clock, 24/7 operations. Those operations had been previously focused on evening and overnight hours.

On Tuesday night, more than 1,450 federal law enforcement officers and National Guard members patrolled Washington, according to a White House official. Law enforcement teams made 43 arrests on Tuesday night  nearly twice the number made Monday night, the official said.

Those law enforcement teams included 750 D.C. Metropolitan Police Department officers who were "uniformed, marked as patrol and directly assigned as anti-crime officers," the White House official said. That was in addition to the federal law enforcement who had been previously mobilized in the area. The White House official said that there were about 30 National Guard troops on the ground last night.

MORE: Trump admin live updates: Trump threatens 'severe consequences' for Putin if he doesn't stop war

The law enforcement teams were "deployed throughout all seven districts in D.C. to promote public safety and arrest violent offenders," the White House official said.

After Trump's announcement Monday, approximately 850 officers and agents fanned out over D.C. right after Trump declared a crime emergency in the capital, making 23 arrests, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday.

On Tuesday, National Guard troops were spotted on the National Mall, with many stationed around the base of the Washington Monument. The troops left Wednesday morning.

It was not immediately clear why the presence of U.S. troops along the National Mall was needed, other than to put Trump's orders on display. The area, marked by museums, monuments and long stretches of grass, is known as a relatively safe part of the city that attracts mostly tourists and school groups.

ABC News' John Parkinson contributed to this report.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect that National Guard did not make any arrests of individuals in Washington.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday said his counterpart, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was in denial about the suffering in Gaza.

His comments come after Australias commitment on Monday to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state, following in the footsteps of Canada, France and the United Kingdom.

Albanese said he spoke with Netanyahu about the decision last week.

He again reiterated to me what he has said publicly as well, which is to be in denial about the consequences that are occurring for innocent people, Albanese said in an interview with state broadcaster ABC.

World leaders have ramped up pressure on Netanyahu to increase aid delivery to starving people in Gaza.

The Hamas-run health ministry said five people have died from malnutrition in the past 24 hours, as reported by the BBC. The total number of deaths due to malnutrition is tallied at 222, including 101 children, per the outlet.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee have criticized allies for moving to recognize a Palestinian state, arguing it will hamper efforts to broker an Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

However, President Trump has contradicted Netanyahus denials of mass starvation in Gaza.

I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry, Trump told reporters late last month.

More than 100 aid groups have warned of mass starvation in the strip and urged leaders to intervene by providing resources to those in need.

Palestinians are trapped in a cycle of hope and heartbreak, waiting for assistance and ceasefires, only to wake up to worsening conditions, they wrote.

Piecemeal arrangements and symbolic gestures, like airdrops or flawed aid deals, serve as a smokescreen for inaction.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 DELHI (Reuters) -Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet President Donald Trump during a visit to the United States next month to attend the UN General Assembly meeting, the Indian Express newspaper reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

India's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. An Indian official familiar with the matter said a decision has not yet been taken, and that countries usually reserve slots for the General Debate at the assembly, which is why India's "head of government" features in a provisional list of speakers on September 26.

"The list will go through revisions," the official said, adding that it had not yet been decided if Modi would be going to the assembly.

The General Assembly kicks off on September 9, but the debate, the annual meeting of heads of state and government, will be held from September 23-29.

Although the reason for the potential visit will be to attend the UN meeting in New York, a key objective will be to hold talks with Trump and iron out trade and tariff issues that have led to some souring of ties between the two countries, the newspaper reported.

News of a possible Modi trip to the U.S. comes days after Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods to penalise New Delhi for continuing to buy Russian oil.

The penalty took the total levy on Indian goods exported to the U.S. to 50%, among the highest levied on any U.S. trading partner.

Trade talks between New Delhi and Washington collapsed after five rounds of negotiations over disagreement on opening India's vast farm and dairy sectors and stopping Russian oil purchases.

On Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said several large trade agreements were still waiting to be completed, including with Switzerland and India, but New Delhi had been "a bit recalcitrant" in talks with Washington.

Bessent told Fox Business Network's "Kudlow" he hoped the Trump administration could wrap up its trade negotiations by the end of October.

"That's aspirational, but I think we are in a good position," he said, adding "I think we can be, we will have agreed on substantial terms with all the substantial countries."

(Reporting by YP Rajesh and Shivam Patel; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
BISHKEK (Reuters) -Kyrgyzstan has banned access to online pornography and imposed state control over internet traffic under new laws signed by President Sadyr Japarov, his office said on Tuesday.

Japarov's office said the ban on pornography is to "protect moral and ethical values" in mostly Muslim Kyrgyzstan, a mountainous Central Asian country of 7 million people which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

The legislation requires internet providers to block websites based on decisions by the ministry of culture. Violators will face fines.

Once Central Asia's most democratic country, Kyrgyzstan has seen increasing pressure on opposition groups and independent media since Japarov, a populist and nationalist, swept to power on a wave of protests in 2020.

He has made the protection of what he calls traditional Kyrgyz values a centrepiece of his agenda.

Also on Tuesday, Japarov signed a decree imposing a state monopoly on international internet traffic.

Under the decree, state-owned telecoms company ElCat will become Kyrgyzstan's sole provider of international internet traffic for a year-long trial period, starting on August 15.

All other Kyrgyz telecom operators will be required to transfer their contracts for international bandwidth to ElCat within two months.

Bishkek-based political analyst Emil Juraev told Reuters: This decision only adds to the growing role of the state at the expense of market freedom in Kyrgyzstan.

The move comes ahead of a parliamentary election due in 2026, and a presidential poll due in 2027. Japarov, whose allies dominate the legislature, has indicated he will run again.

(Reporting by Aigerim Turgunbaeva, writing by Felix Light, editing by Giles Elgood)
By Danial Azhar

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Jailed former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak won a major court battle on Wednesday that took him a step closer to being able to serve out a years-long jail term over the multi-billion dollar 1MDB scandal at home.

Najib, imprisoned since August 2022 in one of several cases related to 1MDB, has been seeking a judicial review to compel authorities to confirm the existence of and execute a royal order issued by former King Al-Sultan Abdullah entitling him to serve the remainder of his jail sentence under house arrest.

In a unanimous decision, the Federal Court, Malaysia's top tribunal, said on Wednesday it accepted that there was a royal document related to granting house arrest for Najib but it was not in a position to determine its authenticity.

Najib has said an addendum order accompanied a pardon by Al-Sultan Abdullah in January last year that halved his sentence from 12 years to six.

The case has stirred intrigue in Malaysia, with multiple government authorities, including members of the pardons board, denying knowledge of the document for months despite the former king's office saying an addendum had been issued.

The Federal Court's three-member panel said while it accepted the order's existence, it could not determine whether the document was truly issued as part of the pardon.

It referred the case to a lower tribunal, with the next hearing to be held on Aug. 18.

"We remit the case to the High Court for the hearing of the substantive judicial review proceedings before a new judge," said Federal Court judge Zabariah Mohd Yusof.

Najib's lawyer Muhammad Shafee Abdullah said his client hoped for the case to proceed swiftly and called on the government to adhere to the addendum order.

"The minute the king signed the decree, you cannot question his decision," Muhammad Shafee said.

Malaysia's king plays a ceremonial role but the monarch can grant clemency to convicted persons under discretionary powers granted by the federal constitution.

Decisions made by the country's royals are rarely challenged. Negative remarks about the monarchy can be prosecuted under a colonial-era Sedition Act, which has been used against people who criticise the royals on social media.

ADDENDUM'S EXISTENCE UNDISPUTED

The decision is expected to boost calls by Najib's party, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), for him to be granted house arrest.

UMNO campaigned against current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, but joined Anwar's coalition in government following a 2022 election that resulted in a hung parliament.

More than 100 people gathered outside the court complex on Wednesday to support Najib, who lost the 2018 election amid public anger over 1MDB.

Najib initiated his judicial review in April last year. The bid was initially dismissed by the Kuala Lumpur High Court, but was overturned on appeal in January, after Najib's lawyers produced a letter from the former king's palace saying there was an addendum.

The attorney-general's office appealed the decision questioning the document's admissibility.

A lawyer acting on behalf of the attorney-general told the court in July he did not dispute the document's existence, but was challenging the way in which it was being submitted as evidence.

The Federal Court said the concession by the attorney-general that the order existed had a significant impact on its decision on Wednesday.

"As of now, the addendum order exists and its status vis-a-vis its validity or whether it is true needs to be ascertained at a substantive hearing," judge Zabariah said.

Najib was found guilty in 2020 of criminal breach of trust and abuse of power for illegally receiving funds misappropriated from a unit of state investor 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

About $4.5 billion was stolen from 1MDB in a globe-spanning scheme, with about $1 billion flowing into the personal accounts of Najib, Malaysian and U.S. investigators have said.

Although some 1MDB-linked charges against him have been dropped, Najib is still awaiting a verdict in the biggest trial he faces over the scandal, with the court expected to hear closing arguments in October. He has denied all the charges against him.

(Reporting by Danial Azhar; Writing by Rozanna Latiff; Editing by John Mair, Kate Mayberry and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
By Nerijus Adomaitis

ARENDAL, Norway (Reuters) -Russian hackers briefly took control of a dam in Norway earlier this year, the head of the Nordic country's counter-intelligence agency said on Wednesday, the first time Oslo has officially attributed the cyberattack to its neighbour.

While in command of the dam in Bremanger, western Norway, on April 7, the hackers opened a flood gate and released 500 litres (132 gallons) of water per second for four hours before the attack was detected and stopped, authorities previously said.

No one was injured during the attack.

Norway produces most of its electricity via hydropower dams, and intelligence authorities have previously warned of the risk of attacks on its energy infrastructure.

"Over the past year, we have seen a change in activity from pro-Russian cyber actors," Beate Gangaas, head of Norway's PST security police agency, said in a speech.

The incident at Bremanger was one such activity, Gangaas added.

"The aim of this type of operation is to influence and to cause fear and chaos among the general population," she said. "Our Russian neighbour has become more dangerous."

The Russian embassy in Oslo said Gangaas' declarations were "unfounded and politically motivated".

"It is obvious that the PST is unsuccessfully trying to substantiate the mythical threat of Russian sabotage against Norwegian infrastructure this year, which it itself invented in its February (annual) report," it said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

Last September, Britain's spy chief accused Russia of waging a "staggeringly reckless campaign" of sabotage in Europe, partly to scare European countries from helping Ukraine. Moscow denies the allegation.

After her speech, Gangaas told Reuters that she was going public with the attribution to warn the general population and to try to prevent Russia from launching further attacks.

"I want Norwegians to be prepared," she said in an interview.

NATO-member Norway shares a border with Russia in the Arctic. Like the other Nordic countries, it is a staunch supporter of Ukraine. It is also Europe's largest supplier of gas, which is mostly transported via a network of pipelines under the North Sea.

(Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis; writing by Gwladys Fouche; editing by Christina Fincher and Leslie Adler)
By Nate Raymond

(Reuters) -A federal appeals court on Tuesday upheld an Arkansas law barring doctors from providing gender-affirming care including puberty blockers, hormones and surgery to transgender minors.

The 8-2 decision by the St. Louis-based 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturns a lower court ruling. It also follows the U.S. Supreme Court's June ruling holding that Tennessee's similar ban did not discriminate based on sex or transgender status.

Citing that ruling, the 8th Circuit's majority agreed with Arkansas' Republican attorney general that the law did not violate transgender minors' equal protection rights under the U.S. Constitution.

The 8th Circuit also went further than the Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, by deciding an unresolved legal issue of whether such bans violate parents' rights to provide appropriate medical care for their children.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs -- a group of minors, parents and healthcare professionals -- argued the Arkansas law violated parents' due process rights under the U.S. Constitution's Fourteenth Amendment.

But U.S. Circuit Judge Duane Benton, writing for the majority, cited a lack of historical support for the argument that parents have a right to obtain medical treatment for their children that a state legislature deems inappropriate.

"This court finds no such right in this Nations history and tradition," Benton wrote in an opinion joined by seven fellow appointees of Republican presidents.

U.S. Circuit Judge Jane Kelly, an appointee of Democratic former President Barack Obama, dissented along with another judge, citing a "startling lack of evidence connecting Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care with its purported goal of protecting children."

"This is a tragically unjust result for transgender Arkansans, their doctors and their families," said Holly Dickson, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas, which represented the plaintiffs.

The decision overturns a ruling by a lower-court judge in 2023 who had declared the law unconstitutional after previously blocking it from taking effect in 2021.

That year, Arkansas became the first U.S. state to ban gender-affirming care for minors. The Republican-led legislature passed the ban over the veto of then-Governor Asa Hutchinson, also a Republican.

Since then, a slew of other Republican-led states have passed similar laws. Such policies are now in place in 25 states. The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last week upheld Oklahoma's own ban, citing the Supreme Court's ruling.

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Colorado parents are urging state lawmakers to conduct efforts to either amend or repeal criminal competency laws following several cases where charges were dropped despite involving kidnapping or murder.

The group includes two women whose mother was killed in a hit-and-run crash, who joined others to call for a special legislative session. The cases that sparked the protests all involved defendants whom doctors ruled were incompetent to stand trial.

Colorado's Criminal Competency Laws

One of the cases involved a man who killed Britany Visage's mother in November 2024 in a hit-and-run incident that started in a McDonald's parking lot. She asked how laws regarding competency can allow an individual who said, "I knew I hit her. I knew I was dragging her. I knew it would kill her. I just had to get out of there," to walk free.

Visage's sister, Hanna Kerst, said that the loss of their mother was exacerbated by the lack of justice that they saw in court. She said that she was left with more questions than answers despite everything that transpired, according to 9News.

The issue that the group is talking about is a Colorado law that deals with criminal defendants who have been ruled incompetent to stand trial. This means that they cannot understand the legal proceedings or assist in their defense.

State statutes require judges to dismiss criminal charges against individuals whose doctors rule are incompetent to stand trial. They must also conclude that even with treatment, there is no reasonable likelihood that this assessment would change.

One example of charges being dropped in a high-profile case was that of Solomon Galligan in Arapahoe County. The defendant was facing kidnapping and child abuse charges after being caught on camera lunging at elementary school children in Aurora during recess in April last year, CBS News reported.

Searching for Justice

Several advocates with CPAN, Safe2Tell, victims' families, and lawmakers expressed their concern about the situation. They gathered at the Colorado Supreme Court on Tuesday to urge local residents to sign the online petition.

Executive director of CPAN, Lori Gimelshteyn, said, "Our communities are not safe," adding that it is important for the community to understand what is happening. On the other hand, mental health advocates say that safer communities are created by providing effective care to those with behavioral health disorders, including individuals in the criminal justice system.

Colorado Springs resident Susan Payne joined the Colorado Parents Advocacy Network to release a citizen's petition. It calls on district attorneys across the state to use whatever influence they have to lobby the legislature and call for a special session to re-examine it, as per MSN.
By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. government noted abuses in India and Pakistan in a shortened human rights report released on Tuesday that said India "took minimal credible steps" to combat the abuses while Pakistan "rarely took credible steps."

The Trump administration scaled back the annual U.S. government report on human rights worldwide, dramatically softening criticism of some allies and countries that have been President Donald Trump's partners.

The State Department human rights documentation for India and Pakistan was also much shorter and scaled back this year.

India has been an important U.S. partner in recent years in Washington's effort to counter China's rise, although relations have been tense over Trump's imposition of a 50% tariff on goods from India. Pakistan is a non-NATO U.S. ally.

About India, the report said: "The government took minimal credible steps or action to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses."

On Pakistan, it added: "The government rarely took credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses."

Indian and Pakistani embassies in Washington had no immediate comment on the report released on Tuesday, which documented instances in 2024.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch fault Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for its treatment of minorities.

They point to rising hate speeches, a religion-based citizenship law the U.N. calls "fundamentally discriminatory," anti-conversion legislation that challenges freedom of belief, the 2019 removal of Muslim-majority Kashmir's special status, and the demolition of properties owned by Muslims.

Modi denies discrimination and says his policies, such as food subsidy programs and electrification drives, benefit everyone.

In Pakistan, Amnesty International says government authorities fail to protect minorities, including Christians, and use "excessive and unnecessary force" against civil society voices and protesters.

In particular, rights groups, the U.N., and Western governments raised concerns over the 2024 Pakistani elections. A U.N. working group said last year that former Prime Minister Imran Khan's detention violated international law. Khan remains in jail.

Islamabad says its elections were fair and dismisses allegations of rigging and foul play.

Washington and New Delhi have not reached a trade deal, while the United States has reached an agreement in recent weeks with Pakistan.

Trump angered India by taking credit for an India-Pakistan ceasefire in May after hostilities between the neighbors following an April attack in India-administered Kashmir. India says New Delhi and Islamabad should resolve their ties directly without outside involvement.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in WashingtonEditing by Rod Nickel)
Russian President Vladimir Putin will return to the U.S. for the first time in a decade when he meets with President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday.

Following Trumps announcement last week that the pair would be meeting for an in-person summit  marking the first time a U.S. president will meet with Putin after he invaded Ukraine in 2022, less than a year after he met with Biden in 2021 in Geneva  several locations were suspected as being the most likely meeting places, including Hungary, Switzerland, Italy and the United Arab Emirates.

It was reported that Putin shot down the idea of Italy, as it is seen as being favorable to Ukraine, and instead pushed for Hungary.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and then-President Barack Obama share a toast during the luncheon at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sept. 28, 2015.

Trump Goes After Zelenskyy Over 'Land Swapping' Dispute, Lays Out 'Feel Out Meeting' With Putin

However, Trump surprised the nation when he announced on Friday that Putin would instead be traveling to Alaska for his first U.S. trip since he attended the U.N. General Assembly in New York in 2015, when he met with then-President Barack Obama.

On Monday, Trump said he thought it was "very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or even a third-party place."

Read On The Fox News App

It is unclear why a third-party nation like the UAE was not selected. Though the justification for why Hungary was not selected  despite being led by Viktor Orban who is friendly with both Putin and Trump  could be because it is a member of NATO and would likely prove controversial should a NATO ally host the Kremlin chief at a time when Europe faces its greatest threat since World War II.

Similarly, dubious optics could be attributed to not hosting the meeting in Switzerland, which, though not a NATO ally, is a member of the International Criminal Court which issued an arrest warrant for Putin in 2023 over accusations of war crimes.

President Donald Trump, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands at the beginning of a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki on July 16, 2018.

"They probably avoided Europe, because if they included Europe, then Europe would have demanded that they're actually at the table," Dan Hoffman, former CIA Moscow Station chief, told Fox News Digital. "Probably your two choices were go to Russia  which Trump would never do  or invite him here.

"It also exposes the challenge that you can't solve this without Ukraine and without Europe," he added.

While it remains unclear where exactly the pair will meet, or why Alaska was ultimately landed on, Alaskas senior Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski said it was "another opportunity for the Arctic to serve as a venue that brings together world leaders to forge meaningful agreements."

Eu Hits Back At Trump, Zelenskyy Comments, No Concessions In Ukraine Before Putin Ceasefire Agreement

"While I remain deeply wary of Putin and his regime, I hope these discussions lead to genuine progress and help end the war on equitable terms," she added, noting her concern when it comes to dealing with Putin.

Russian officials appeared to take a more optimistic tone about the location of the meeting when Russias special economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev took to X to acknowledge the historical role Alaska has played in the Russia-U.S. relationship.

"Born as Russian America  Orthodox roots, forts, fur trade  Alaska echoes those ties and makes the U.S. an Arctic nation," Dmitriev said, later describing it as the "perfect stage" for the meeting.

Hoffman argued that the location is not hugely significant and said, "What's going to matter is what they talk about. The details of the meeting more than the venue.

"No one can predict what's going to happen. I don't even think Trump or Putin knows what's going to result from this," he added, noting there were too many variables to start predicting or analyzing any element of the upcoming talks.

Trump wouldnt detail what he specifically hopes to get out of the talks with Putin on Friday, though he argued hed be able to tell within the first "two minutes" whether a ceasefire deal in Ukraine was even possible.

"I'm not going to make a deal. It's not up to me to make a deal," he said. I think a deal should be made for both [Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy].

"Id like to see a ceasefire. I'd like to see the best deal that could be made for both parties. You know, it takes two to tango," he added.

From left to right, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, hold a telephone conversation with President Donald Trump on the sidelines of a meeting at the 6th European Political Community summit on May 16, 2025 at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, Albania.

Trump said he would relate the details of the conversation to both Zelenskyy and European leaders immediately following the meeting.

"We're going to see what he has in mind," Trump said of his upcoming meeting with the Kremlin chief. "And if it's a fair deal, I'll reveal it to the European Union leaders and to the NATO leaders, and also to President Zelenskyy  I think out of respect I'll call him first.

"I may say, lots of luck, keep fighting or I may say, we can make a deal," Trump concluded.





Original article source: Vladimir Putin to return to US for the first time in a decade
By Kirsti Knolle, Olena Harmash and Tom Balmforth

BERLIN/KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian and European leaders pursued last-ditch efforts on Wednesday to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump not to strike a Ukraine peace deal with Russia's Vladimir Putin, which they fear could sell out Kyiv's interests.

Trump and Putin are due to meet in Alaska on Friday for talks on how to end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict, the biggest in Europe since World War Two. Trump has said both sides will have to swap territory to end the fighting, which has cost tens of thousands of lives.

In a day of intense diplomacy, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy flew into Berlin for German-hosted virtual meetings with European leaders and Trump. The Europeans are worried that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine and embolden Putin to expand further west in the future.

Since announcing the Alaska summit, Trump has played down expectations for the talks, saying it would be a "feel-out" meeting as he seeks to end Moscow's war on Ukraine.

In a first video conference on Wednesday, Zelenskiy and his host, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, met the leaders of Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss their pitch to Trump and try and shape the outcome of Friday's summit.

Trump and Vice President JD Vance later joined the conversation, according to a source familiar with the situation.

"Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

EUROPE AND KYIV FEAR UNFAVOURABLE ALASKA DEAL

The unpredictability of the summit in Alaska has fuelled Europeans' fears that the U.S. and Russia could take far-reaching decisions over their heads and even seek to coerce Ukraine into an unfavourable deal.

"We are focusing now to ensure that it does not happen - engaging with U.S. partners and staying coordinated and united on the European side," said one senior official from Eastern Europe.

Wary of angering Trump, European leaders have repeatedly said they welcome his efforts while stressing that there should be no deal about Ukraine without Ukraine's participation.

Trump's administration tempered expectations on Tuesday, telling reporters the summit would be a "listening exercise" for him to hear what it would take to get to a deal.

Trump's agreement last week to the summit was an abrupt shift after weeks of voicing frustration with Putin for resisting the U.S. peace initiative. Trump said his envoy had made "great progress" at talks in Moscow.

Half a dozen senior European officials told Reuters that they see a risk of a deal being struck that is unfavourable for Europe and Ukraine's security. They said European unity would be vital if that happened.

After the meeting with Trump, the "coalition of the willing", a group of countries working on plans to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, will also convene online.

BATTLEFIELD PRESSURE MOUNTS ON UKRAINE

A Gallup poll released last week found that 69% of Ukrainians favour a negotiated end to the war as soon as possible. But polls also indicate Ukrainians do not want peace at any cost if that means crushing concessions.

Ahead of the calls, Zelenskiy said it would be impossible for Kyiv to agree to a deal that would require it to withdraw its troops from the eastern Donbas region, a large swathe of which is already occupied by Russia.

That, he told reporters on Tuesday, would deprive Ukraine of a vast defensive network in the region, easing the way for a Russian push deeper into Ukraine in the future.

He said territorial issues could only be discussed once a ceasefire was in place and Ukraine had received security guarantees.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexei Fadeev said Moscow's stance had not changed since it was set out by Putin in June 2024.

As preconditions for a ceasefire and the start of negotiations, the Kremlin leader had demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from four regions that Russia has claimed as its own but does not fully control, and formally renounce its plans to join NATO.

Kyiv swiftly rejected the conditions as tantamount to surrender.

(Additional reporting by Lili Bayer in Brussels, Madeline Chambers in Berlin, Yuliia Dysa in Kyiv and Steve Holland in Washington; Writing by Tom Balmforth; Editing by Mark Bendeich and Jon Boyle)
WASHINGTON  California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom mocked President Donald Trump with an all-caps tweet amid a heated redistricting effort in Texas that could give Republicans up to five more seats in the U.S. House of Representatives next year.

Mimicking Trump's all-caps social media style, Newsom trolled the president as "DONALD 'TACO' TRUMP," and suggested California would soon go forward with its own redistricting effor to offset the Republican effort in Texas.

The post comes as Newsom urged Trump in an Aug. 11 letter to stop the redistricting efforts, arguing that Trump was playing with fire and risking the destabilization of our democracy. Newsom added that if Trump doesnt stand down, he would redraw the congressional map in California to counter the Texas effort.
Blake Marvin/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Aerial view of the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Key Points

The three-year transformation, led by the resorts original designer Paul Duesing, will introduce modern updates while maintaining its classically Mexican style, including custom furniture and artworks made by local artisans.

Culinary enhancements include the launch of Agave Study at Peacock Alley, Neutral Coffee Lab, a coffee shop, and Travesia, a nine-course taco tasting experience.

The salon at the Waldorf Astoria Spa will also debut a new look.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal secured a spot among the best resorts in Mexico in Travel + Leisure's 2025 World's Best Awards.

See at expedia.com

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal will reopen on October 1 after a multiyear, resort-wide renovation.

The hotel, located on a prime stretch of beachfront in Cabo San Lucas, is currently closed for the update of its 112 guest rooms, suites, casitas, and villas, helmed by Paul Duesling Partners, the resort's original designer. The accommodations will be enhanced with a palette of light neutrals, custom furnishings crafted in Mexico, and an art collection highlighting local talent, including a mural by multidisciplinary artist Tanya Talamante.

The reimagination of Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal was done thoughtfully to ensure a singularly authentic luxury experience that gives a nod to both the resorts impressive legacy as well as the heritage and traditions of Mexican culture, said Maria Valeria Nowotny, vice president of operations for the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America at Hilton in a press release, shared with Travel + Leisure.



Blake Marvin/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Exterior of the Two Bedroom Beachfront Suites. Edgardo Contreras/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Interior of the Estrella Suite. Blake Marvin/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Aerial view of the adult pool and beach lounge chairs. Blake Marvin/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal The Foot Ritual Area in the spa.

The multiyear transformation started in 2022 with enhancements to the restaurants and culinary program. Since then, the hotel has added Agave Study at Peacock Alley, celebrating Mexico's agave spirit-making traditions, Neutral Coffee Lab, offering local and international coffee varieties, and Travesia, a nine-course taco tasting experience. Don Manuel's, the resort's signature restaurant, also underwent a glow-up and now serves an elevated take on traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Guests can still dine at the dramatic cliffside El Farallon, where the menu highlights the freshest catch of the day. For a beachfront al fresco lunch or an afternoon cocktail and snack, Crudo features ceviche, sushi, and oysters with an ocean view.

Blake Marvin/Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal The El Farallon cliffside restaurant

The salon at the Waldorf Astoria Spa has also undergone a refresh. And the resort will continue its three-day Alo Moves retreats post-renovation. Wellness-focused guests can still enjoy the spa's saltwater meditation pool and holistic treatments, based on the moon's phases.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is a favorite of T+L readers, securing a spot among the top 10 best resorts in Mexico at the 2025 World's Best Awards.



Nightly rates at the resort start from $1,214. You can book your stay at waldorfastorialoscabospedregal.com

See at expedia.com

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
A view of Main Street toward Anaconda Deer Lodge County Court House in Anaconda, Montana, is shown. - Ian Dewar/Alamy Stock Photo

Time stood still for the locals of a small Montana town nestled in a quiet, scenic mountain valley after an Army veteran shot dead four bar patrons and went into hiding.

For seven days, the quiet charm of Anaconda gave way to fear as the towns residents slept beside their guns at night and eyed their once peaceful, tree-lined neighborhoods that had become potential hiding places for a mass murderer on the run.

On August 1, Michael Paul Brown walked into The Owl Bar near his home in Anaconda and fatally shot Daniel Baillie, 59; Nancy Kelley, 64; David Leach, 70; and Tony Palm, 74, authorities said.

Brown had irrevocably scarred a beloved gathering spot, known for its cozy, neon-lit interior plastered with glowing beer logo signs and posters jeering with bawdy bar jokes and wisecracks.

He knew everybody that was in that bar. I guarantee you that, owner David Gwerder told The Associated Press. He didnt have any running dispute with any of them. I just think he snapped.

Its still unclear whether Brown was targeting any of the victims or if he shot them randomly. Browns niece, Clare Boyle, previously told CNN he struggled with his mental health during his time in the Army and was never the same after his service.

Upon fleeing The Owl Bar after the deadly shooting, Brown briefly went to his home before hiding in another structure down the street, authorities said Friday.

Security footage showed Brown barefoot and wearing only underwear as he left that structure, where he ditched his clothing and other personal items. He then stole a white Ford F-150 truck, authorities said.

He was identified almost immediately when he got in that vehicle and took off, Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen said.

The challenge was an almost identical vehicle pulled into the highway in front of him, and so law enforcement wasnt sure which white F-150 he was in, Knudsen said.

Security camera footage shows Michael Paul Brown fleeing after a shooting at the The Owl Bar on August 1. - Montana Department of Justice

It was still early morning when hospitals, day care centers and local businesses received a chilling emergency alert ordering them to lock down immediately.

Once that happened, the news spread like wildfire, local Randy Clark, a retired police officer, told CNN.

When Clark stepped outside his home, he was immediately engulfed by a massive dust cloud kicked up by speeding law enforcement vehicles.

For an entire week, the flashing blue and red lights of police vehicles cast eerie glows inside residents homes, while helicopters and drones hummed relentlessly overhead.

Neighbors and businesses bolted their doors and watched anxiously from behind curtains as police swarmed the streets. Armed and on edge, every unfamiliar noise sparked dozens of false alarms.

Last Sunday morning, the house beside Clarks was crowded with SWAT vehicles when a young girl in the home awoke to a loud noise downstairs, triggering a false alarm.

They responded to every call. They followed up on every tip. They spent hours climbing over these mountains looking for this criminal. They used every resource available to them to search for him, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said about authorities efforts to find Brown.

The grueling manhunt was unwavering, with 250 law enforcement personnel traversing challenging terrain in the western Montana wilderness. The dozens of agencies searching for Brown included the FBI, Anaconda Deer Lodge County Police, the Granite County Sheriffs Office and the Denver office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Authorities locked down the Barker Lake area of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest last weekend as local, state and federal agencies searched by land and air, the Montana Department of Justice said.

The type of terrain, its very challenging, so we have expanded our perimeters to look in different areas, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation Administrator Lee Johnson said previously.

Anaconda resident Dan Haffey, who was a fire foreman for the Montana Division of Forestry, knows the area well. He told CNN his team would cut trails into Garrity Mountain for hikers.

Theres a thousand places to hide on that mountain, Haffey said. Ive been on forest fires, and in that drainage up there, and (there are) 5,000 acres. That mountain is gigantic.

Investigators eventually found the truck Brown had stolen, but he was not located in or around the vehicle, Johnson said at the time.

On Friday, after a weeklong manhunt, Brown was found armed around 2 p.m. local time about 5-and-a-half miles away from the shooting scene. He is now in the custody of Anaconda-Deer Lodge County authorities, according to Knudsen.

Authorities on Friday declined to comment on which charges will be filed against the suspect. CNN is working to determine whether Brown has retained an attorney.

Tips from the public were crucial in locating Brown, who was flushed out and found in an area authorities had previously searched and cleared, Knudsen said.

On Thursday, there were about 130 personnel in the area where Brown was found, according to Knudsen.

We think that was directly correlated to flushing him out today, getting him down into an area that we know we had searched before, Knudsen said Friday. Its not someplace hed been hiding.

From left: The Owl Bar victims Daniel Edwin Baillie, Nancy Lauretta Kelley, David Allen Leach and Tony Wayne Palm are pictured. - Montana Department of Justice

With the suspect in custody, authorities say they will now seek justice for the families of the victims.

Meanwhile, the community of Anaconda is cautiously moving toward a sense of normalcy.

Businesses have unlocked their doors again and locals have set aside their guns to find comfort in grieving together and supporting one another, Clark said. He added several restaurants are donating a portion of their sales to help support The Owl Bar.

Its always terrible for the victims families and friends to lose someone like that, in such a terrible way, Clark said. Im sure at The Owl Bar, every time somebody drives by or goes in, or the name of any of the victims comes up, it will just bring everything back up, but the whole saying is, time heals wounds.

CNNs Dalia Faheid, Josh Campbell, Michelle Watson, Taylor Galgano, Jillian Sykes and Elizabeth Wolfe contributed to this report.

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President Trumps trade and energy policies are recalibrating the global economic order  and not by accident. Under his leadership, trade is no longer simply about moving goods. It is a tool of strategic policy  one that drives industrial revival, and shapes strategic, economic and national outcomes.

Trumps approach is disruptive but methodical. Tariffs create negotiating power, leading to trade agreements that reduce deficits and rewire supply chains. When combined with U.S. energy exports and capital markets, this strategy doesnt just rebalance trade  it reinvigorates American industry.

As a senior negotiator on the U.S.-China Phase I Trade Agreement in Treasury during Trumps first term, I saw firsthand that what critics dismissed as erratic, chaotic and unpredictable was, in fact, deeply strategic. President Trumps instincts, honed by decades of high-stakes dealmaking, informed a broader strategy. He approached policy like a grandmaster playing three-dimensional chess: every tariff, handshake and message was a calculated move to reassert American economic leadership.

Just as in Trumps first term, this administration began by confronting structural imbalances. The 2024 U.S. goods trade deficit hit $1.2 trillion  its highest in history. In response, Trump used executive authority to impose reciprocal tariffs  not as an end in themselves, but as tools to bring others to the table.

Starting in early 2025, Trumps targeted tariffs compelled negotiations to rebalance trade relationships and repatriate supply chains.

Japan agreed to reduce average industrial tariffs from 25 percent to 15 percent and pledged $550 billion in U.S.-bound investment. The European Union followed suit, agreeing to a framework that includes a baseline 15 percent tariff on industrial goods, expanded market access for U.S. energy, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals, and a commitment to $420 billion in foreign direct investment into the U.S. And, most recently, the United States also reached a trade agreement with South Korea: Seoul will face a 15 percent duty, reduced from a threatened 25 percent, in exchange for a pledge to invest $350 billion in U.S.-owned projects and purchase $100 billion in American liquefied natural gas and energy products.

Indonesia and the Philippines opened markets for U.S. agriculture and energy, while committing to major purchases, including 50 Boeing aircraft. Vietnam accepted 20 percent tariffs and tighter controls on transshipped Chinese goods. Negotiations continue with India, Taiwan and others.

Together, these countries now account for $809 billion  or 67 percent  of the 2024 U.S. trade deficit. Once deals with India and Taiwan are finalized, that coverage will exceed three-quarters. A mere 5 percent improvement across these relationships could slash the annual deficit by up to $95 billion.

Beyond deficit reduction, these agreements reset incentives. They punish transshipment, enhance transparency and support rules-of-origin provisions that favor North American manufacturing.

The result? Companies are investing in new U.S. production  auto components, semiconductors, specialty steel and energy systems. And job creation follows capital. Analysts estimate that up to 1.5 million advanced manufacturing jobs could be brought back to American soil over five years  a far cry from Barack Obamas declaration that some U.S. manufacturing jobs were gone forever.

Trade reform paves the way for yet another explosion in growth: deploying U.S. energy and capital into newly aligned partner markets.

Programs like America Crece and Asia EDGE, flagship infrastructure growth initiatives during Trumps first term, demonstrated the power of this model. This programming identified and unlocked growth opportunities in our partner countries using American energy exports and American equipment, employing American workers, and financing through American capital markets.

In Latin America alone, we identified over $300 billion in infrastructure projects with U.S. private capital in the lead. In Vietnam, we identified $8 billion in near-term energy exports and $50 billion in longer-horizon infrastructure investments. Before the Biden administration ended this programming, we executed on $2.5 billion in transactions in Panama, backed a $3.5 billion facility in Ecuador and laid the groundwork for more than $4 billion in liquefied natural gas-based investment flows into Vietnam.

Japan and Taiwan are now adopting this U.S. liquefied natural gas-driven model. Their national priorities  liquefied natural gas security and grid modernization  create natural demand for U.S. energy exports and financing partnerships. Trade deals open the market; energy and infrastructure partnerships deliver the substance.

Our capital markets are unmatched in size, efficiency and depth. Trumps tariff leverage opens doors. Energy exports and U.S. financing flow through them  fueling global infrastructure while anchoring demand for American industry.

This energy multiplier also advances a core tenet of Trumps economic agenda: U.S. energy dominance. American liquefied natural gas, coal and refined products are now strategic assets  tools of both commercial strength and geopolitical influence.

Trumps approach fuses trade, energy and finance into a cohesive doctrine. It turns deficits into investment. It transforms market access into industrial revival. And it leverages the full might of U.S. capital to strengthen allies abroad and jobs at home.

If the goal is to bring back U.S. manufacturing, secure energy markets and make capital markets work for working Americans  this is the model. The chessboard is set. And America, once again, is playing to win.

Mitchell A. Silk served as assistant secretary for International Markets at the U.S. Treasury during Trumps first term. He was the senior Treasury official on U.S.-China trade negotiations and helped design America Crece and Asia EDGE. He is the author of A Seat at the Table: An Inside Account of Trumps Global Economic Revolution, to be published in September 2025.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
With over 120 million people, Ethiopia is Africas second most populous country and one of the worlds oldest civilizations. Strategically located in the Horn of Africa, it carries immense geopolitical importance.

Yet despite its rich history, Ethiopia today is among the most repressive environments for press freedom. The government continues to stifle independent journalism through censorship, harassment and arbitrary detention.

According to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, Ethiopia is ranked 141st out of 180 countries for media freedom. The Committee to Protect Journalists further confirms that Ethiopia is one of sub-Saharan Africas top jailers of journalists, holding six journalists in prison as of Dec. 1, 2024, making it second only to Eritrea in the region.

Since the outbreak of government-led conflict in the Amhara region in 2023  compounded by ongoing unrest in all parts of the country  journalists have faced escalating threats and imprisonment for simply reporting the truth. In August 2023, the Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency covering the Amhara region and beyond. This has been criticized by Amnesty International as a pretext for authoritarian control. The Committee to Protect Journalists has documented misuse of anti-terror laws and prolonged detentions in unofficial facilities.

Among those unjustly detained is Meskerem Abera, founder of Ethio Nikat Media. Amnesty International has stated that the charges against her appear politically motivated as part of a broader crackdown on journalists critical of the government.

Equally emblematic is the case of Dereje Habtewold, a veteran journalist sentenced to imprisonment in exile by the former Ethiopian People Revolutionary Democratic Front regime. In exile, he continued to report through Ethiopian Satellite Network TV, a YouTube-based outlet serving the diaspora.

But YouTube  owned by Google  is increasingly undermining that mission.

According to a recent Ethiopian Satellite Network TV statement, Maede Zenachannel (where Habtewold serves as main reporter) was arbitrarily terminated on July 21, 2025, followed by Ethiopian Satellite Network TVs main YouTube channel on July 30, 2025. YouTube issued only vague references to violations of community standards, offering no transparency or meaningful recourse.

Other independent Ethiopian media outlets  such as Zewdu Show, Ethio 360 and 14 channels affiliated with the Amhara Media Council including Merja TV, Ethio 251 Media, Ghion TV Multimedia  have also been removed from YouTube without warning or justification. These outlets, many with hundreds of thousands or even millions of subscribers, have served as lifelines for independent news, especially as press freedom deteriorates inside Ethiopia.

Even American journalists are being swept up in this wave of silencing. Salome Mulugeta, founder of Hello Ethiopia, has had her YouTube channel blocked for more than eight months. YouTube has provided the same non-compliant to community standards justification for blocking her channel.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohans 2022 testimony before U.S. Congress included a powerful statement: YouTubes mission is to give everyone a voice and show them the world. That mission is commendable, but it must be upheld consistently. Ethiopian journalists and diaspora media leaders cannot accept the selective enforcement of content standards, particularly those Mohan outlined to then-Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

When principles of fairness and transparency are applied unevenly, it erodes YouTubes credibility and also enables authoritarian regimes to shape the global narrative without challenge.

YouTube plays a critical role in amplifying the voices of exiled and independent journalists, especially those reporting on crises ignored by state-controlled or mainstream outlets. Yet its opaque and seemingly biased moderation practices increasingly threaten that role.

By disproportionately targeting content critical of the Abiy Ahmed regime, particularly reporting on war on Amhara region, human rights abuses, the imprisonment of civilians and opposition party leaders, systemic corruption, religious persecution and the erosion of the rule of law  YouTube risks becoming complicit in suppressing truth. These actions contribute to an information vacuum, embolden authoritarianism and undermine the democratic values the platform claims to uphold.

This is not just an Ethiopian diaspora journalist problem. As artificial intelligence and algorithms increasingly control what content is visible  and what is silenced  the unchecked power of tech platforms threatens global press freedom.

Congress must take concrete steps to remedy this.

Hold public hearings on content moderation, compelling tech executives to explain how and why journalistic content  especially from politically sensitive regions  is being removed.

Demand transparency from YouTube and Google regarding their moderation policies, enforcement data and algorithmic biases that may disproportionately affect dissident voices.

Introduce legislation to establish clear standards and oversight for how tech platforms manage news and political speech globally.

Pass resolutions affirming U.S. support for press freedom and working with international organizations to pressure governments  like Ethiopias  to halt the persecution of journalists.

Invest in independent journalism, including training, digital security and tools to help reporters navigate censorship and algorithmic suppression.

Failure to act now risks normalizing the dangerous precedent that global tech platforms can silence journalists without accountability, while authoritarian governments cheer them on. When truth tellers are digitally erased and propaganda prevails, the foundation of democracy itself begins to crack.

Mesfin Tegenu is executive chairman of the American Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 prisoner managed to escape from Washington State Department of Corrections officers while he was being transported through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, authorities said.

Corrections officers and local law enforcement officers are looking for 20-year-old John Nino, who fled from custody while he was being escorted through the airport shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Washington State Department of Corrections.

MORE: Fugitive on the run for over 6 weeks after escaping police at airport captured

Nino, who is 6 feet, 2 inches tall and weighs 154 pounds, was on community supervision for second-degree robbery and had a warrant out for his arrest after he failed to report for meetings with his community corrections officer.

Nino was arrested several days ago in New Mexico and was being returned to Department of Corrections custody in Washington when managed to escape.

He was wearing a red coat and gray sweatpants and officers say they last saw him crossing railroad tracks and heading towards Highway 99, which is near the airport, before he disappeared.

MORE: $30,000 of stolen Labubus recovered in major California bust

Washington State Department of Corrections - PHOTO: A prisoner in Washington managed to escape from the custody of Department of Corrections officers while he was being transported through the airport, authorities said.

MORE: Coast Guard suspends search for missing fisherman after boat with 4 crew members capsizes

This is not the first time this year that an inmate has managed to escape police custody on the grounds of Sea-Tac Airport.

In May, an inmate, 29-year-old Sedric Stevenson, escaped and was able to evade authorities for over six weeks when he was eventually captured 45 days later after being charged in Kentucky on multiple charges including convicted felon in possession of a firearm, assault in the third degree and enhanced possession of a controlled substance in the first degree (methamphetamine).

Authorities are now searching for Nino but have asked the public not to approach the suspect if they see him and to report any sightings of Nino to the police.

ABC News' Tristan Maglunog contributed to this report.
Courtesy Everett Collection Ron Howard (left) and Andy Griffith on 'The Andy Griffith Show'

NEED TO KNOW

Ron Howard reflected on his time on The Andy Griffith Show in a new interview

Ron shared that he only learned as an adult that his dad, Rance Howard, gave a note to Griffith that changed the shows core dynamic

Ron played Opie, the son of Griffiths Andy Taylor

The Andy Griffith Show wouldnt be what it was without Ron Howards dad.

Ron, who played Opie as a child star on the beloved series, opened up about his time on the show in an Aug. 13 interview with Vulture. The show starred Griffith, who died in 2012 at 86, as Sheriff Andy Taylor, a single dad raising Opie in the fictional Mayberry, N.C. Don Knotts played Andys deputy, Barney Fife. The series ran from 1960 to 1968 and continued to find scores of fans in reruns.

Vulture writer Bilge Ebiri asked Ron, 71, about his dad, actor Rance Howard, who had the idea to change the Opie and Andy relationship into what it became.

Silver Screen Collection/Getty Ron Howard (left) and Andy Griffith on 'The Andy Griffith Show'

Dad never said anything about that to me, Ron said. He only learned about it years later, when the cast reunited for a special. Andy told me that my dad had come to him very early on in the show and said, Youre writing Opie the way most sitcom kids are written. Theyre wisea---- and smarter than the dad. 



https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Ron remembered Griffith telling him that his dad said, Ronnie can do that, but what if Opie actually respected his dad?

As for why Rance, who died in 2017 at age 89, wanted that shift, Ron wasnt sure. Now, I dont know if Dad was just worried about me getting into bad habits, or I think he was, in his own very simple way, actually teaching me Actors Studio stuff. It was the simplest version of method acting, finding the truth in moments, he said. I think maybe he felt like there was a lot of artifice in these punch-line-driven deliveries that would be required.

Gary Null/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Andy Griffith (left) and Ron Howard in 'Return to Mayberry,' a reunion special

Ebiri noted that because of the show, Griffith became a surrogate father for fans, but it was Rances idea that made that possible. Well, I think a lot doesnt happen if he doesnt make that suggestion, Ron said.

The actor-turned-director said that growing up on the set of the show gave him a lot of advantages because the environment was super-creative.



The show looks so simple, but it was all about this very precise problem-solving, he said I would see scenes suddenly become funny or work. Because it wasnt done in front of an audience, and even though we were working quickly, what Andy wanted was a truthfulness. But it still required perfect timing and exactly the right tone.

Courtesy Everett Collection From left: Andy Griffith, Don Knotts and Ron Howard in 'The Andy Griffith Show'

Ron also said that Griffith was always annoyed that the media didnt embrace the show and it got less-than-flattering reviews. In season 5, I remember him saying, How long do we have to be in the top 10 for them to understand why this show works?  the American Graffiti star remembered.

Elsewhere in the interview, Ron also reflected on how his tenure on the show as a young actor ultimately led him to the director's chair. As a little kid, it didnt take me long to realize that the director was the one who was hanging out with everybody. And a lot of our directors on The Andy Griffith Show had been actors, and I think Andy liked that, he said. He remembered Howard Morris, who played Ernest T. Bass on the series, telling him at 10 years old, I think youre going to wind up being a director because I see the way youre curious about it all.

Rons career ultimately took him from The Andy Griffith Show to another hit series, Happy Days, which he starred in from 1974 to 1980. He began working as a film director in the late 70s and broke out with 1984s Splash. His brother, Clint, is also an actor and appeared in multiple episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.

Read the original article on People
The parents of a teenager who was wrongfully detained by federal agents outside of Arleta High School spoke out about the incident.

The incident happened when the 15-year-old was pulled from a car, handcuffed, and briefly detained on Monday. Officials have described it as a case of mistaken identity where agents even drew their guns.

Wrongful Arrest of a Teenage Boy

Now, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is calling for limits on immigration enforcement operations near campuses. Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho criticized the incident, adding that district officials outlined new plans to keep students safe from immigration raids.

In his speech, Carvahlo said that the victim in the case was not an adult but a 15-year0old boy who had significant disabilities. He argued that something like this cannot happen, as it is the type of incident that traumatized the community.

After federal agents arrested and detained the teenager, they later released him, saying that there was a mix-up as they were looking for an adult. The LAUSD is now asking federal agents to honor no-enforcement zones, which can be set up a few block radius around each school, according to ABC7.

Read more: Parents of Westchester High School Grad Reveal ICE Agents Detained Daughter After Routine Visa Hearing

Carvalho added that one hour before the start of school and one hour after school ends, areas of protection will be established outside of schools for the benefit and safety of students. He added that the creation of a safe passage for students will include the addition of more bus routes.

The superintendent said that they have already rerouted a number of bus routes and added new routes to ensure there is enough transportation for all. On the first day of school for the district, LAUSD will be deploying more than 1,000 central office and district office staff into critical areas based on incident information. They will target schools that have seen a higher rate of immigration raids.

Ongoing Immigration Raids

The parents of the 15-year-old boy who was wrongfully detained expressed their concerns as the new school year approaches. The teenager's mother said that unmarked SUVs swarmed her car before they pulled her son out and immediately cuffed him, NBC Los Angeles reported.

The boy's mother said that the federal agents showed them a picture of an individual who looked like their son. But after she and the boy told them that they were not the same person, they decided to let him go.

However, instead of apologizing for the wrongful arrest and detention, the mother said the federal agents told her to look at the bright side. They allegedly said the family would now have an exciting story to tell when the boy went back to school, as per CBS News.
By Dmitry Antonov

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia said on Wednesday that its stance on ending the war in Ukraine has not changed since President Vladimir Putin set out his conditions last year: the full withdrawal of Kyiv's forces from key Ukrainian regions and the abandonment of its NATO ambitions.

Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump are due to meet on Friday in Alaska, the first U.S.-Russian summit since 2021, to discuss efforts to end the war. Trump has said both sides will have to swap some of the land they currently hold to make this happen.

Russia currently controls 19% of Ukraine including all of Crimea, all of Luhansk, more than 70% of the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, and slivers of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions.

After reports by some media that Washington understood Putin was ready to compromise on his territorial demands, the Russian Foreign Ministry's deputy spokesperson, Alexei Fadeev, was asked by reporters if Russia's position had changed or not.

"Russia's position remains unchanged, and it was voiced in this very hall just over a year ago, on June 14, 2024," Fadeev said, referring to a speech Putin delivered then at the foreign ministry.

At that time, in his fullest public remarks so far about the shape of a possible settlement, the Kremlin chief set out demands including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the parts of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson that they still control.

Putin also said that Kyiv would have to officially notify Moscow that it was abandoning its plans to join the U.S.-led NATO military alliance, and that it intended to remain neutral and non-aligned.

In addition, Putin said that the rights and freedoms of Russian-speakers in Ukraine would have to be ensured, and the "realities" that Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson were now part of Russia.

Putin has said his conditions would also have to be reflected in international agreements. At the time of his 2024 speech, Ukraine rejected his demands as tantamount to an absurd ultimatum.

Ukraine has repeatedly said it will never recognise Russian occupation of its land, and most countries recognise Ukraine's territory within its 1991 borders. Based on the current frontlines, Putin's demand would entail Ukraine ceding an additional 21,000 sq km (8,100 sq miles) to Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said Russia must agree to a ceasefire before territorial issues are discussed. He would reject any Russian proposal that Ukraine pull its troops from the eastern Donbas region and cede its defensive lines.

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Anastasia Teterevleva; Editing by Mark Trevelyan)
The man suspected of shooting three people to death, including a child, in a Target parking lot in Austin, told police he was Jesus and obtained a firearm through a family member despite a history of mental health struggles, authorities said.

Police identified the shooter as Ethan Nieneker, 32, and said he began his attack by shooting Target employee Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca as he collected shopping carts Aug. 11. Nieneker then ran up to a gray Toyota 4-Runner and killed Adam Chow and his 4-year-old granddaughter before pushing Chow's wife from the vehicle, police said in a news release. Chow's wife survived with minor injuries.

"What happened yesterday was an unprovoked and deliberate attack, a deliberate act of violence," Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said Aug. 12. "Innocent lives were taken in broad daylight, in a place where people should feel safe to run their everyday errands and to live their everyday lives."

USA TODAY is working to reach an attorney or family member who can speak on Nieneker's behalf.

Chaotic timeline after deadly Target shooting

After the killings at 2:15 p.m. CT, police say, Nieneker stole Chow's car and made a chaotic getaway, assaulting multiple people and stealing cars along the way. Here's a timeline released by authorities:

2:20 p.m.: Driving the 4-Runner, police said, Nieneker came across a parked water truck, opened the driver's door, assaulted the driver, and threw him out of the vehicle before trying to drive it. Unable to figure out how to operate the truck, authorities said, he then chased a man, pistol in hand, before returning to the 4-Runner and driving off.

2:25 p.m.: Police said Nieneker crashed the 4-Runner into a Volkswagen and landed on top of an SUV. He then jumped out of the 4-Runner, assaulted the Volkswagen's driver, pushed her out of the car, and drove off.

2:34 p.m.: According to police, Nieneker ran up to a Waymo vehicle and tried to break in before he got back in the Volkswagen and drove away.

2:37 p.m.: Police said Nieneker threw a brick through a window of the home of someone he knew through Bible study.

2:58 p.m.: Austin police received a call from a South Austin resident who reported seeing a man run into a portable toilet and then leave naked.

3:06 p.m.: Police found Nieneker, naked and holding a Bible. They said he failed to comply with their commands, so they used a Taser stun gun on him and arrested him. They found clothing inside the portable toilet matching the Target shooting suspect's attire, including a Hawaiian shirt.

In an aerial view, law enforcement officers stand guard on the grounds of a Target store on August 11, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Three people have died after a gunman opened fire in the parking lot of the store in north Austin. The suspect has been arrested after being found by police in south Austin.

Charges, motive, and what we know about Ethan Nieneker

Davis said Nieneker worked at a local restaurant and lived alone. He has been charged with two counts of capital murder and first-degree felony murder. Police said he will face more charges related to the assaults and carjackings that followed.

As for a motive, police Sgt. Nathan Sexton said, there was "really no reason whatsoever given."

"He said that he was Jesus," Sexton said. "It was a completely random choosing of the victims."

Sexton said that the handgun used in the attack was "acquired through family" and that the department was investigating possible charges against the family member.

Davis said Nieneker's history with Austin police included assault causing bodily injury to a family member, driving under the influence, violation of a protective order, marijuana possession, and two mental health reports.

"This man had some serious issues, and I think about the systems that failed in a way, as we move forward," she said. "We're looking at this background, and again, this is going to be things that are going to be coming up in the months and the years ahead. There were some serious failures here."

A police officer searches the grounds of a Target store on August 11, 2025 in Austin, Texas. 3 people have died after a gunman opened fire in the parking lot of a Target store in north Austin. The suspect has been arrested after being detained by police in south Austin.

'Pain caused will be felt by our community for years to come'

Davis declined to detail who failed Nieneker or exactly how and said she did not know if he had been formally diagnosed.

"What help are they getting when you're dealing with someone with these issues?" Davis asked. "Where does someone with this capacity to do this get a weapon? And when does a family member feel comfortable giving someone with these issues a weapon?"

She called the case "a heartbreaking and deeply painful time for our city."

"The actions of the suspect showed a complete disregard for human life," she said. "The pain caused will be felt by our community for years to come."

Amanda Lee Myers is a senior crime reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at amanda.myers@usatoday.com and follow her on X at @AmandaLeeUSAT

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas Target shooting: Austin police release details about the attack
Fans of one of Taco Bell's most popular items are in for a treat as the chain announced Aug. 12 a new flavor of its famous Mountain Dew Baja Blast beverage.

For the first time in two decades, Taco Bell is expanding the Baja Blast line with a new flavor called Mountain Dew Baja Midnight.

The drink, described by the chain as an "unexpected purple twist on the iconic tropical lime flavor fans know and love," will be available nationwide on Thursday, Aug. 14, as a permanent menu addition.

Taco Bell says Mountain Dew Baja Midnight blends passionfruit flavor with the "instantly recognizable" taste of Mountain Dew Baja Blast.

'McDonaldland' debuted in 1971. Now its back. What to know about the new meal.

Prices, frozen version, how to get a free drink with purchase

Taco Bells first-ever evolution of the cult classic flavor, Mountain Dew Baja Midnight blends a refreshing blast of passion fruit flavor with the signature tropical lime flavor of Mountain Dew Baja Blast.

The drink will be available in a regular and frozen option. The frozen version, called a Mountain Dew Baja Midnight Freeze, is only available for a limited time.

The Baja Midnight drink costs $2.49 for a small, $2.79 for a medium and $2.99 for a large, while the Baja Midnight Freeze drink costs $3.79 for a regular and $3.99 for a large.

Additionally, on Aug. 15, Taco Bell Rewards members can try a medium Mountain Dew Baja Midnight for free when they spend $5 or more in the Taco Bell app.

BAJA BLAST has consistently sparked creativity, defied expectations, and continues to be a cornerstone of the Taco Bell experience, said Taylor Montgomery, Chief Marketing Officer at Taco Bell, in a news release. Our fans made it iconic, and theyre the reason were expanding the universe for the first time with Mountain Dew Baja Midnight. Its unexpected, its Taco Bell purple, and its tasty enough to earn its place in the fandom.

Taco Bell unveiled new Refrescas drinks earlier this summer

Taco Bell also announced on June 26 it was introducing new beverages called Refrescas to menus nationwide. According to the chain, the drinks are crafted to "quench every kind of craving  whether you're seeking a refreshing sip, an energizing boost or a frozen escape."

The six drinks include three refreshers, two energy drinks and a cooling freeze. According to Taco Bell, the three Agua Refrescas join menus permanently after initially being tested in Southern California in 2024, with a positive response.

Agua Refrescas (three flavor options): A Taco Bell twist on the beloved Mexican beverage, mixed with real freeze-dried fruit pieces and green tea to provide a subtle boost of caffeine (52 mg per beverage); Available in strawberry passionfruit , dragonfruit berry , and mango peach flavors.

Rockstar Energy Refrescas (two flavor options): Available in a pineapple lime or tropical punch flavor, each drink delivers a boost of energy (200 mg of caffeine per beverage).

Refresca Freeze: A frozen take on the Refresca lineup, featuring real freeze-dried fruit pieces; available in a strawberry lime flavor.

The Agua Refrescas cost $3.99 for a 20-ounce drink while the Rockstar Energy Refrescas cost $4.49 for a 20-ounce beverage. The Refrescas Freezes are available in a 16-ounce or 20-ounce option and cost $3.79 and $3.99, respectively.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Taco Bell launches new Baja Blast flavor, Mountain Dew Baja Midnight
I took a ferry to the perfect day-trip spot in New York. Michele Herrmann

I took a round-trip ferry ride between Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Port Jefferson, New York.

The boat had plenty of seating, a small cafe stocked with treats, and a comfy lounge area.

I enjoyed spending the day in Port Jefferson and thought it was the perfect day-trip destination.

I grew up in Connecticut and fondly remember taking a ferry from Bridgeport to visit a friend in Port Jefferson, New York, about 20 years ago.

We walked around the charming village, browsed the cute shops, and marveled at the historic homes. Although I had a great time that day, I hadn't been to Port Jefferson  or on the ship  since.

So, I decided to spend a recent sunny-weathered Sunday riding the Bridgeport and Port Jefferson ferry. The ride, which was an hour and 15 minutes each way, was definitely worth the $39 round-trip ticket price.

Here's what my experience was like.

I waited inside the ferry terminal before boarding the ship.

Michele Herrmann

Although tickets are available for purchase at the terminal, I bought my round-trip ticket online ahead of time.

On the day of my departure, I arrived at the Bridgeport ferry terminal early and killed some time in the indoor office. Once it was time to line up outside, I heard an announcement over the loudspeaker.

The boarding process was quick and easy.

Michele Herrmann

When I headed out to board the ship, I was excited to find that I would be riding the Long Island, which is the newest addition to the Bridgeport and Port Jefferson Steamboat Company fleet.

I was impressed by the amount of seating options available both inside the ferry and out on the deck.

I grabbed a snack at the cafe.

Michele Herrmann

The boat had a small cafe that sold things like candy bars, drinks, snacks, bagged pastries, and hot food items.

Although I brought my water bottle and a snack with me, I treated myself to $6 French toast sticks, which were warm and tasty.

The outdoor area was beautiful, but the wind made it difficult to enjoy.

Michele Herrmann

I ventured onto the top deck to explore the outdoor seating area, but unfortunately, the wind was too strong during my trip to really enjoy this part of the boat. So, I spent most of my time inside.

The water also got choppy at times, so I remained in my seat and enjoyed the views of the water out my window.

I enjoyed looking out the windows of the lounge.

Michele Herrmann

The ship also had a lounge with a bar, TVs, and front-of-ship windows. It wasn't crowded at all when I was on board, so I decided to watch our arrival into Port Jefferson from the large windows.

I spent a few hours walking around Port Jefferson.

Michele Herrmann

When I got off the boat, I explored the streets of Port Jefferson. I noticed cute little shops, small parks, and restaurants serving everything from casual bites to fancy surf-and-turf meals.

I also wandered through a farmers market in Harborfront Park and took photos along the water. As I walked, I gazed at docked sailboats, a large statue, and an oversize Adirondack chair.

After picking up a chai tea from Local's Cafe, I browsed the small businesses selling everything from house plants to gourmet foods.

I stopped for lunch and some treats before getting back on the boat.

Michele Herrmann

I stopped at Dortoni Bakery, a local favorite that sells Italian pastries, breads, cakes, and cookies, before deciding on the latter.

I also grabbed lunch at Slurp Ramen before walking off my delicious meal and doing some more window shopping around town.

By mid-afternoon, my feet and wallet felt done for the day, so I walked back to the marina for my return ferry.

Overall, taking the ferry was the perfect day trip.

Michele Herrmann

I really enjoyed my ferry trip to Port Jefferson, and I would definitely consider taking the ride again with a friend. Still, in my opinion, it's the perfect summer day trip, whether you go alone or with others.

The ride was comfortable and quiet, and I loved strolling around the beautiful village.

Read the original article on Business Insider
HHN

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando are among the best Halloween theme park events. While I also love Disneylands Oogie Boogie Bash, Halloween Horror Nights provides a scarier experience for teens and adults.

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood will run on select nights from September 4 to November 2, 2025. Each year, the event changes its themed haunted houses, making it feel like a "new" event each season. Here's what I am most excited about this year as a big Halloween fan!

READ MORE  This Controversial Disney Hack Actually Causes Big Safety Issues

He's back and more perfect than ever!!

1. Terror Tram Makes a Return to Blumhouse

Terror Tram

Each year, Halloween Horror Nights features a newly themed Terror Tram, which is essentially the Studio Tour tram that takes guests to a special scare zone area in the Backlot. Guests are taken to the backlot and typically exit the tram through the set areas of the Studio Tour to witness moments from popular horror films and see notorious monsters. This is hands down one of the best things about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood which is unique to this park.

This year's "Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse" will again feature the most iconic villains from Blumhouse's popular horror franchises including The Grabber from The Black Phone, the possessed from Exorcist: The Believer, M3GAN, the ruthless killers from The Purge franchise, the demons from the Insidious chapters, Blissfield Butcher from Freaky and Babyface Killer from Happy Death Day. This year's Terror Tram experience features so many iconic villains, I cannot wait to interact with them all! Especially M3GAN, she is a crowd favorite.

2. Fallout Is This Year's Best Pop Culture House

Photo Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

Halloween Horror Nights typically has one or two pop culture houses that feature films or shows that may not necessarily be horror but fall in that "spooky" category. One of this year's pop culture houses is based on the popular show and video game "Fallout" franchise. Guests will travel into the vaults and be attacked by raiders before escaping into the wasteland. You will see notable characters from the film like Lucy, The Ghoul, and Maximus with the Brotherhood of Steel armor.

This genre of houses is where you see the movie-level set design that Universal excels at. Since Fallout is such a dynamic setting, I imagine this will be one of the best immersive experiences this year. This house could be as good as the Stranger Things houses in the past were, and that's setting a pretty high bar because those houses were always amazing.

3. Teens Will Go Nuts for Five Nights At Freddy's

Five Nights Freddys

We've been asking for it for years! Back in 2023, Halloween Horror Nights featured an immersive exhibit that featured the actual animatronic costumes from the Five Nights at Freddy's film. Ever since that film was released and the exhibit, we have been asking for a Five Nights at Freddy's haunted house! This year, we finally got our wish as these "cuddly" animatronics will be the star of their own haunted houses as guests enter the Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria and encounter these characters.

For teens who grew up playing this video game (many in secret against their parents' wishes), this will be a huge deal. My teenage son is beside himself in anticipation of this haunted house.

4. Terrifier House Will Offer a Wet Path?

Photo Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

The most hyped house this year is easily the haunted house based on all three of Damien Leone's "Terrifier" films. Guests will enter the Terrifier funhouse and encounter Art the Clown and the Little Pale Girl, and according to Universal, will be literally "dripping with terror" and "drenched with fear."

Yes, you read that right. The Terrifier house will have a "wet" and "dry" path with the wet path drenching guests with water as part of the scare experience. Universal is known for its unique way of reaching all the senses in its houses (including smells!), so it makes sense to incorporate water.

5. Poltergeist Is Just For Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

The 1982 cult horror classic Poltergeist film will get its own haunted house that is unique to Universal Studios Hollywood this year! The house will bring guests "into the light" as they encounter one of the scariest films of all time.

I love to see Universal Studios Hollywood have so many unique Halloween Horror Nights experiences. As the smaller counterpart of Universal Orlando, it's nice to see when it gets this special attention. This house was one of the last announced this year, but I have a feeling it might be one of the best since it's honoring a well-loved 1980s horror film.

6. The Purge: Dangerous Waters Returns

Halloween Horror Nights

Speaking of unique Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween experiences! The Purge: Dangerous Waters returns for its third year. The show focuses on "The Purge" franchise, where crime is legal for 12 hours as part of the government's annual Purge. The story of this show focuses on a race against time as a politician escapes to an island to avoid The Purge. The island is then overrun by Purgers, and then a fight ensues with action sequences, lighting, laser effects, high fall fire burns, and massive explosions.

The show makes great use of similar amazing stunt scenes, explosions, and visual effects we see during the WaterWorld show, but with the extra twist of horror. You will see bloody fights and gruesome special effects, which are something you don't often see in a theme park show. Even though you know that's the drill with Halloween Horror Nights, the first time I watched it took me by surprise when the first death happened and we saw blood fly in the air! Do not skip this show and find a way to fit it into your night.

7. You Can't Go Wrong with the Classics

Photo Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

This haunted house honors the classic Jason Voorhees character from the "Friday the 13th" franchise as guests visit the summer camp where his legend began. I always appreciate when Universal incorporates iconic characters like these. In the past, they've also done haunted houses featuring Chucky, the Universal Monsters, Leatherface, and more.

While I do appreciate the new horror movies from franchises like Blumhouse, I enjoy getting the chance to revisit the stories of the most iconic villains that the genre is known for.

8. Most Terrifying House Is Now a Trilogy

Monster halloween house

Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America is the third house in a trilogy of houses featuring the folklore and stories of Latin America. This year's house features three legends of Latin America, including La Llorona, La Muelona, and La Siguanaba.

I experienced this house in 2023, and it was the house that took me by total surprise at how completely terrifying, gruesome, and immersive it was! It's those unique houses that are the ones to watch out for, that can be the spookiest of the whole bunch. After the second house being such a vivid memory for my family, we cannot wait to see what they've done for the third version.

9. The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks

Photo Credit: Halloween Horror Nights

Yes, this year also features a WWE house. This isn't a new concept. Back in 2000, Universal did a Halloween Horror Nights house focusing on The Undertaker character. This will likely be a similar concept, taking the lore surrounding this group of characters and making it into a haunted house. This house is inspired by the WWE group called The Wyatt Sicks.

This wrestling group is inspired by characters developed by Bray Wyatt. Following Wyatt's death in 2023, his real-life brother Bo Dallas returned and created The Wyatt Sicks with four other wrestlers. The wrestlers portray the puppet characters used by Wyatt: Bo Dallas, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Huskus the Pig Boy, and Abby the Witch. Bray Wyatt was a beloved wrestler, and the house will feature The Fiend, his wrestler's alter ego.

10. Iconic Guitarist SLASH Has Big Presence at HHN This Year

Photo Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

This house features a Depression-era farm with larger-than-life scarecrows taking revenge on those who ravaged the land. What makes this house unique is that it features an original score created by SLASH. This will also be paired with a new vinyl album release by SLASH featuring volume 2 of his HHN music from over the years and an all-new themed Slash bar.

SLASH's original score for the experience, which he composes similarly to a motion picture by engaging with each scene, will deliver an unnerving sense of fear. This is a great treat for fans of SLASH and another example of how Universal uses the senses to immerse guests in these houses.

I cannot wait for this year's Halloween Horror Nights, which kicks off September 4. Read my article on all the best tips to survive Halloween Horror Nights to prepare for this iconic event.

READ MORE  Hidden Secrets of the Disney World Hotels You Haven't Heard Of

Disney World hotels

I love exploring the different hotels at Disney World. Each hotel has so much detail that I always catch something new every time I revisit them. However, each hotel also has its own stories and secrets that, once you learn them, may change your whole perspective on Disney's attention to detail. Let's go over the top hidden secrets of the Disney World hotels.

READ MORE -Don't Pack These Items For Your Disney Trip. They Can Cause Headaches and Some Are Banned.

Disney items

When it's time to pack for your Disney vacation, it's important to keep in mind that certain items are not allowed on property. Even though Disneyland and Walt Disney World both have their own set of property rules, it can sometimes be unclear what exactly is allowed and what's not. There are many items that are completely banned, while others only have certain stipulations that need to be followed. These are the Disney items you shouldn't pack for your trip.

The post These 10 Universal Hollywood Horror Nights Experiences Are Why I am So Excited to Go in 2025 appeared first on Mickey Visit - Disney News & Planning Tips.
The State Department put a $5 million bounty on a notorious Haitian gangster nicknamed Barbecue who was indicted for allegedly funneling money from the U.S. to his gangs coffers, the agency announced Tuesday.

The federal government will pay the bounty to anyone willing to provide information that leads to Jimmy Barbecue Cheriziers arrest in any nation. The bounty follows the Department of Justice (DOJ) issuing an accompanying Tuesday indictment against Cherizier alleging that he violated U.S. sanctions on Haiti by funneling money to his gang with the help of Bazile Richardson, a U.S. citizen.

The Department of State is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Jimmy Cherizier, the leader of Foreign Terrorist Organization Viv Ansanm, Senior Bureau Official Chris Landberg of States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs said in a statement. The State Department will continue to apply its tools, including rewards programs, to combat the scourge of transnational organized crime and its violence  especially to stop the worst of the worst criminal ringleaders threatening the people of our hemisphere. (RELATED: Haitian Government Reportedly Partnering With Erik Prince To Fight Gangs)

Police patrol around Bernard Mevs hospital where armed gangs have spread violence in Port-au-Prince on December 17, 2024. (Photo by CLARENS SIFFROY/AFP via Getty Images)

Cherizier is the leader of Viv Ansanm, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization and powerful gang alliance operating in the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince, according to the DOJ. The organization formed to unite the nations gangs to oppose the government, igniting a brutal, protracted conflict that has killed and displaced thousands of Haitians.

The leader, with the help of his confidant Richardson, allegedly solicited money transfers from Haitian nationals living in the U.S., according to the DOJ. After allegedly laundering the money through intermediaries, Chierzier would use the funds to purchase weapons and pay his gang soldiers.

Richardson was arrested July 23 in Texas, and is currently awaiting his trial, according to the DOJ.

Cherizier is believed to be responsible for multiple human rights violations in Haiti, including the La Saline Massacre in 2018, which killed 71 people and destroyed well over 400 homes in the capital. From January to March, over 250 people were killed, 66 injured and more than 3,000 residents were uprooted by gang attacks in Port-au-Prince, according to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, citing United Nations (UN) data.

Gangs now control over 90% of the nations capital, according to the UN.

Cherizier and a U.S. associate sought to raise funds in the United States to bankroll Cheriziers violent criminal enterprise, which is driving a security crisis in Haiti, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said in a statement. The National Security Division does not tolerate criminal gang fundraising in the United States, and will continue to pursue those who enable Haitis violence and instability.

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.
Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) agents stand guard in Dupont Circle as part of a federal law enforcement deployment to the nation's capital on August 10, 2025 in Washington, DC. Credit - Andrew LeydenGetty Images

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday taking control of Washington, D.C.s Police Department, part of a sweeping effort by his administration to crack down on crime. As 800 National Guard members and other federal law enforcement officers are fanning out across the nations capital, Democratic leaders elsewhere are wondering if their cities could be next.

That speculation was fueled in part by Trumps vow to intervene in other cities to fight crime, suggesting New York, Baltimore, Oakland as possible future targets. They're so far gone," he said. This will go further. Were starting very strongly with D.C."

But Trumps authority to take over local police forces and send troops to patrol streets beyond Washington, D.C. is severely limited by law, legal experts say, since most cities fall under state jurisdiction where governors control the National Guard and local law enforcement. The nations capital is not a state, giving the President a rare ability to deploy the National Guard and assume control of its police during declared emergencies.

In other cities, the President cannot unilaterally commandeer police departments or deploy federal troops for ordinary law enforcement without state approval or a declared federal emergency, says Meryl Chertoff, an adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law School.

It was contemplated by the Founders that the states would retain a certain degree of autonomy and a certain degree of individuation, Chertoff says. Generally, the justification for the federal government to get involved is because either there's a commerce issue or a foreign policy issue that is national in scope.

She adds, When the President basically says I govern all of it, the Constitution requires that there be some justification for that. And this notion that everything becomes an emergency is often used as a way of bypassing what would ordinarily be state autonomy.

In Washington, D.C., Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows the president to take control of the citys police during an emergency for up to 30 days. His declaration of the situation as a public safety emergency drew criticism from local officials, as violent crime in the city is at a 30-year-low. Attorney General Pam Bondi was named to oversee the Metropolitan Police Department, while 800 National Guard troops were deployed to patrol the streets.

Other cities are hopefully watching this, Trump said. They're all watching and maybe they'll self clean up and maybe they'll self do this and get rid of the cashless bail thing and all of the things that caused the problem.

The law Trump invoked applies only to the District of Columbia because it lacks a governor to approve or deny the federal intervention. Washington, D.C. is in a unique position and is uniquely powerless vis-a-vis the federal government, Chertoff says.

In contrast, cities like New York, Baltimore, and Oakland are in states with elected governors who have legal authority over the National Guard and local police. Many of those leaders have pushed back strongly against Trumps threats to federalize their law enforcement.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, who announced earlier this month that the citys violent crime rate is at its lowest in decades, responded on social media: This is the latest effort by the president to distract from the issues he should be focused on  including the roller coaster of the U.S. economy thanks to his policies, Scott wrote. When it comes to public safety in Baltimore, he should turn off the right-wing propaganda and look at the facts. Baltimore is the safest its been in over 50 years. Homicides are down 28% this year alone, reaching the lowest level of any year on record.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker directly challenged Trumps authority on X, writing, Lets not lie to the public, you and I both know you have no authority to take over Chicago, after the president blamed him for crime in the city.

While Trump cant take over the police in other cities, he can deploy the military domestically under certain circumstances. Earlier this year, nearly 5,000 National Guard members and active-duty Marines were sent to Los Angeles to respond to immigration protests and protect federal agents, bypassing the states governor. In his first term, Trump sent federal agents and troops to patrol streets in cities like Portland in response to racial justice protests. In those situations, National Guard troops had specific mandates, and were not supposed to be involved in everyday policing.

Legal experts argue that such deployments run afoul of the Posse Comitatus Act, a federal law that generally prohibits the use of the military for domestic law enforcement. Laura Dickinson, a professor at George Washington Law School, noted that while the president has broad authority to call up the National Guard in D.C., it is highly unusualand legally fraughtto deploy military forces for routine crime control in cities without a clear federal emergency.

Democracies around the world and in our country, historically, don't use the military to do law enforcement on a regular basis, Dickinson says, noting that the National Guard and Marines are not trained for every policing situation. It's risky and harmful and impractical for all sorts of reasons.

A legal challenge over Trumps declaration could soon be underway in D.C. Brian Schwalb, the citys Attorney General, called the order unlawful but has not committed to filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. Any litigation would likely take longer than 30 days, the maximum period Trump can retain those emergency powers without Congressional approval.

In California, courts are currently reviewing the legality of Trumps order of federal troops to Los Angeles earlier this summer.

Beyond direct intervention, Chertoff warns that the Trump Administration could leverage federal funding as a tool to pressure states and cities to comply with its law enforcement priorities There is so much federal money going into states, she says, and what the President has done is say, if you don't cooperate with me on, lets say, sanctuary city policies or immigration enforcement, I am going to withhold money that goes into your programs.

This financial leverage, she says, is doing indirectly what he cannot under the 10th Amendment, which provides states with a degree of autonomy.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump told European leaders during a call on Wednesday that he does not intend to discuss any possible divisions of territory when he meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska this week, according to two European officials and three other people briefed on the call.

Trump said on the call, which also included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, that he is going into the meeting with Putin with the goal of securing a ceasefire in Ukraine, those sources said.

Trump and European leaders agreed that a ceasefire in Ukraine has to be implemented before peace negotiations can begin, the European officials and two other people briefed on the call said. Some of the European leaders were left with the impression from the call that Trump is not optimistic about the results of his meeting with Putin, they added.

The call on Wednesday took place just days ahead of Trumps meeting with Putin, which is planned for Friday. European and Ukrainian officials have been nervous about the presidents meeting with the Russian leader since he announced it last week. Among their concerns is that Trump and Putin might agree to the parameters of a peace deal, including territorial divisions, and then try to pressure Ukraine to agree to it. Trumps comments last week that there would "be some land swapping between Russia and Ukraine, in particular, put Zelenskyy and European leaders on edge.

But the two European officials and three other people briefed on Wednesdays call said all the leaders agreed that Ukraine must be included in negotiations and should be the one to decide what territorial concessions it might be willing to make. They also said the leaders were united in their belief that if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire, Trump will likely levy new sanctions on Russia.

Two additional people familiar with Wednesdays call said European leaders left feeling positive about Trumps plans for his meeting with Putin. One of them said achieving a ceasefire is expected to be the priority for Trump in the meeting. The other person expressed confidence that Ukrainian territory would not be negotiated without Ukraine.

A European official said there was still concern that the president could shift his position yet again once he is in the room with Putin, especially as he has so far proven reluctant to put concrete pressure on Russia and follow through on threats of additional sanctions.

Sometimes these positions change and get revised in a matter of hours, one European official said.

European governments and Ukraine are also anxious about how the aftermath of the meeting would be handled, that European official said, and whether the details of what was discussed or agreed would be clearly explained or addressed in a joint statement.

In response to a request for comment, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement: "The White House does not discuss details of the Presidents private diplomatic conversations. However, President Trump has been clear that he wants to end this war and stop the killing, and Fridays meeting with President Putin will serve as an important moment in this process.

Trump said Wednesday after the call that it was very good and suggested that another meeting involving Zelenskyy could quickly follow his sit-down with Putin.

Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is Im going to find out where we are and what were doing, Trump told reporters. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskyy and myself, if theyd like to have me there.

The president also said Russia will face severe consequences if Putin doesnt agree to end the war.

Vice President JD Vance assured Zelenskyy and European allies on the call that the U.S. would not negotiate with Russia about a solution for the war in Ukraine without Ukraine or without Europe, according to two German government officials involved.

Vance said afterward during remarks to U.S. troops at RAF Fairford in the U.K. that one of our most important shared security goals in Europe is ending the war in Ukraine.
An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Sailor Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV was declared lost at sea by the Navy on July 30, 2025, Image 2 shows Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV in his Service Dress Whites with his father Jose Antonio Rivera, Image 3 shows The USS George Washington sails near the Colombian Coast in the Pacific Ocean on June 29, 2024

A 19-year-old US sailor has been declared lost at sea after he was assumed to have gone overboard off the USS George Washington off the coast of Australia.

Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV was identified as the missing sailor by the Navy on Aug. 1.

Rivera Lynch served as an aviation boatswains mate (launch/recovery equipment) airman onboard the aircraft carrier and went missing on July 28, only hours after a positive phone call with his parents.

At just 19 years old, Jose faithfully served his country with honor, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others, his family revealed in a GoFundMe.

Sailor Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV was declared lost at sea by the Navy on July 30, 2025. Jose Rivera/Facebook

Jose was more than a sailor  he was a loving son, a cherished brother, and a loyal friend whose laughter and light touched everyone around him. His sudden loss has left our family heartbroken and navigating the unimaginable grief of losing someone so young and full of promise, the family added.

A search and rescue operation was launched for the missing sailor and included several naval vessels and was assisted by the Australian Defense and Australian Border Forces.

Officials called off the search, which lasted 45 hours and spanned an area of roughly 2,200 square miles, on July 30, the Navy announced.

The Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was navigating the Timor Sea north of Australia when Rivera Lynch was reported missing.

Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV in his service dress whites with his father, Jose Antonio Rivera. Jose Rivera/Facebook

The USS George Washington sails near the Colombian coast in the Pacific Ocean on June 29, 2024. AFP via Getty Images

Rivera Lynch had spoken with his parents just 12 hours beforehand, around 10 a.m., and expressed how tired he had become due to his long workdays.

We noticed the tiredness, we noticed that, and then he said, I love you guys,  the sailors father, Juan Antonio Rivera III, told News4Jax. I said, Youre the best of me. Youve been to places Ive never been and we are so proud of you.

That was the last thing I said to my son, the heartbroken father said.

Rivera Lynch came from a long line of military members, following in the footsteps of his sister, father and grandfather.

He is my hero, Rivera said.

The Middleburg, Florida, native enlisted in the military as a 17-year-old in high school, as part of the Navys delayed enlistment program, before joining in June 2024.

Rivera Lynch came from a long line of military members, following in the footsteps of his sister, father and grandfather. Jose Rivera/Facebook

Rivera Lynch enlisted in the military as a 17-year-old in high school, as part of the Navys delayed enlistment program, before joining in June 2024. Jose Rivera/Facebook

He was assigned to the aircraft carrier when it was stationed at its homeport of Yokosuka, Japan, in January.

The mourning father remembered his son for his service and personality.

He was vibrant, educated, humble. He served his country, he served the Navy and he has made his family proud, he said.

Rivera Lynchs family held a memorial earlier this month and he will be honored during a funeral and memorial service by the Navy on Sept. 19, in Yokosuka, Japan.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Airman Rivera Lynchs family, friends, and shipmates during this incredibly difficult time, Carrier Strike Group 5 commander Rear Adm. Eric Anduze said, according to USNI News.

The courage and dedication shown by all personnel involved in this operation exemplifies the professionalism and commitment that defines our Navy.
American officials scrambling this weekend to identify and lock down a venue for Fridays summit between President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart quickly discovered a major snag: summertime is peak tourist season in Alaska, and options both available and equipped to host the two world leaders were severely limited.

When word reached certain prominent Alaskans that Trump and Putin were coming, a few began reaching out to the presidents allies with a proposition: could their home be an option? Its unclear if those offers ever reached White House officials, who were calling sites in Juneau, the state capital, along with Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Organizers of the summit soon came to believe the only city in the massive state with viable options for the summit would be Anchorage. And only Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, on the northern edge of the city, would meet the security requirements for the historic meeting, though the White House had hoped to avoid the optics of hosting the Russian leader and his entourage on a US military installation.

That is where the two men will meet Friday, two White House officials said.

The struggle underscored the rush now underway to nail down the details of Fridays meeting, the first time the top US and Russian leaders have met in more than four years. The summit is still largely a work in progress as US and Russian officials make haste to prepare for the high-profile encounter. The two countries top diplomats  Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov  spoke Tuesday to discuss certain aspects of preparation, according to Russias foreign ministry.

Usually, a high-stakes summit with a US adversary would be preceded by extensive negotiations over the agenda and outcomes. But Trump himself has said he is approaching the meeting as a feel-out session, with few advance expectations for how it will proceed. The White House on Tuesday termed it a listening session.

The president feels like, look, Ive got to look at this guy across the table. I need to see him face to face. I need to hear him one-on-one. I need to make an assessment by looking at him, Rubio said in a morning radio interview Tuesday with Sid Rosenberg, offering one explanation for why Trumps five known phone calls with Putin this year wouldnt suffice in determining the Russian leaders intentions.

President Donald Trump speaks to US troops at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, in 2019. - Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images/File

Landing on Alaska

Trumps administration and the Kremlin landed on Alaska as the site for the summit after a lengthy behind-the-scenes back-and-forth, according to people familiar with the matter. There were few places that would work for the sit-down, the people said, particularly given a war crimes warrant issued for Putins arrest by the International Criminal Court in 2023.

With that fact looming, Russia balked at a European destination  even in a city like Vienna or Geneva, where US and Russian leaders have met dating back to the Cold War. While Putin himself raised the United Arab Emirates as an entirely suitable location, many inside the White House hoped to avoid another lengthy trek to the Middle East after Trumps visit in May.

In the end, sources said, it came down to Hungary  whose Prime Minister Viktor Orban is close to both Trump and Putin  and the United States as possible hosts, according to two US officials.

American officials were pleased and somewhat surprised when the Russian president agreed to a meeting on US soil  on land that once was part of the Russian empire, no less.

I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or even a third-party place, Trump said this week, as his team was rushing to finalize details of the summit.

Others were not so taken.

The only better place for Putin than Alaska would be if the summit were being held in Moscow, said Trumps former national security adviser John Bolton, who fell out with Trump during his first term. So, the initial setup, I think, is a great victory for Putin.

A woman on a cell phone walks by a map of Alaska on July 9, 2022 in Anchorage, Alaska. - Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Previous Putin meetings

The last time an American president met with Putin  President Joe Bidens 2021 summit in Geneva  the date and venue were announced three weeks ahead of time. But the planning between Russian and American officials started months before that.

Biden, on a week-long swing through Europe, spent the days leading up to the sit-down in intensive preparation with top advisers, blocking out time in the mornings to parse potential directions the conversation could take and anticipate some of Putins moves. He consulted other leaders, including the German chancellor, for pointers on how to approach the notoriously wily Russian leader.

By the time the summit arrived, aides had planned the day down to the most minute detail, including what order the leaders would arrive, how long each session would last and what type of flower would sit on the table (it was white roses). American officials even ensured there were bottles of orange Gatorade  labeled POTUS  inside a refrigerator at the 18th-century villa where the meeting took place.

During Trumps first term, he and Putin sat one-on-one in Helsinki, Finland, during a summit in 2018 that ended with a remarkable moment when Trump sided with Putin over US intelligence agencies on the question of Russian election interference. Trump also met Putin alone in 2017, during their first encounter at the G20 summit in Hamburg.

Mystery over meetings origins

While American and Russian officials have been in extensive conversations to prepare for the sit-down since it was agreed to last week, the encounter that prompted the event remains something of a mystery. Trumps foreign envoy Steve Witkoff visited Moscow last Wednesday for a meeting with Putin that resulted in the decision to meet, though what exactly Putin said in the meeting is still largely unknown.

European officials spent much of the last week trying to ascertain the parameters of a peace deal that Putin offered up, but some said they were frustrated by the lack of clarity offered by Witkoff, a real estate developer and longtime friend of Trumps.

Trump plans to hear from European leaders and Ukraine in a virtual meeting on Wednesday, arranged by the Germans so the president can get their perspective ahead of the Friday meeting. And he has promised to get on the phone with them, along with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, immediately after the summit concludes.

But Zelensky isnt expected to be in Alaska for the summit, so any potential trilateral meeting is off the table for now.

Instead, Trump will spend at least part of the summit meeting with Putin one-on-one, the White House said Tuesday, allowing time for the two men to carry out a discussion unheard by anyone else aside from their translators.

Thats part of the plan, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said when asked whether the two presidents would meet as a pair. As for the other mechanics and logistics, I will let our team speak to that when theyre ironed out.

Its not atypical for leaders to meet alone with their counterparts, but Trump and Putins relationship has been the subject of intense scrutiny. And during Trumps first term, even senior officials said they sometimes were left in the dark about what was discussed when aides were left out. In Trumps previous two meetings with Putin, both encounters included translators, but not high-ranking aides. After the Germany meeting, Trump reportedly asked his translator for his notes.

For his part, Putin has spent the days ahead of Fridays meeting placing phone calls to his remaining global allies  including some who have staged their own high-profile summits with Trump.

That included North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, the Kremlin said Tuesday, who met three times with Trump during his first term, but still hasnt abandoned his nuclear weapons.

This article has been updated with additional information

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Two all-new taste experiences reimagine how fans enjoy their favorite pepperoni

AUSTIN, Minn., Aug. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As consumers continue to seek out bold, adventurous flavors and new ways to elevate everyday eating occasions, the makers of HORMEL Pepperoni are answering the call with two exciting new additions to its category-defining lineup: HORMEL Pepperoni with Jalapeno and HORMEL Pepperoni Dill Pickle Flavored. These bold new flavors are made for today's food lovers  those who crave a little extra excitement in every bite.

Crafted with high-quality ingredients and designed for flavor seekers, HORMEL Pepperoni with Jalapeno delivers a bold, spicy kick. HORMEL Pepperoni Dill Pickle Flavored offers a tangy, craveable twist to spice up snack time or add a punch of personality to pizza night. HORMEL Pepperoni with Jalapeno and HORMEL Pepperoni Dill Pickle Flavored are two bold new flavors that are made for todays food lovers  those who crave a little extra excitement in every bite.

With nearly half of U.S. consumers actively seeking elevated taste experiences1, and with pickle- and jalapeno-inspired foods surging in popularity, these all-new pepperoni varieties reflect the bold, craveable flavors that are capturing consumer attention across both meal and snack-time occasions. Jalapeno continues to gain traction amid growing consumer demand for bolder, spicier flavors. Dill pickle has also captured consumer attention, with 65% expressing interest in pickle-forward offerings2.

These bold new flavor additions from the HORMEL Pepperoni brand reimagine a classic favorite  great on pizza, layered in sandwiches, stacked on a charcuterie board, or enjoyed straight from the package  with trending flavors to match.

"Our fans have been asking for something new and exciting, and we're thrilled to deliver with two new flavors that we know people are craving," said Andrew McElroy, HORMEL Pepperoni brand manager. "Whether you're chasing heat or looking for that tangy zing, these new pepperoni varieties bring fresh personality to the pepperoni category."

Crafted with high-quality ingredients and designed for flavor seekers, HORMEL Pepperoni with Jalapeno delivers a bold, spicy kick, while HORMEL Pepperoni Dill Pickle Flavored offers a tangy, craveable twist. Both are ideal for consumers looking to spice up snack time or add a punch of personality to pizza night.

HORMEL Jalapeno and Dill Pickle Pepperoni are now available at major grocery retailers nationwide and online. To learn more, find recipes or locate a store near you, visit hormelpepperoni.com.

1. Mintel, Flavors to Watch in 2025.

2. Datassential, The World of Savory Flavors, March 2024.

About the HORMEL Pepperoni Brand

For more than 100 years, pepperoni has been a longstanding American favorite and a well-known specialty of Hormel Foods. Today, the HORMEL Pepperoni brand is the No. 1 selling brand of pepperoni (based on latest 52-week IRI data) in the United States, thanks to its great flavor and top-quality ingredients. For more information about the brand, including product information, recipes and where to buy, visit hormelpepperoni.com.

About Hormel Foods  Inspired People. Inspired Food.

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include PLANTERS, SKIPPY, SPAM, HORMEL NATURAL CHOICE, APPLEGATE, JUSTIN'S, WHOLLY, HORMEL BLACK LABEL, COLUMBUS, JENNIE-O and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World's Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement  Inspired People. Inspired Food.  to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.

Contact: Media Relations

Hormel Foods

[email protected]

SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation
A woman saw what she thought was a spiderweb in an Arkansas park and decided to kick it, discovering an estimated $27,000 diamond in the process (Arkansas State Parks)

A woman saw what she thought was a spiderweb in an Arkansas park and decided to kick it, discovering an estimated $27,000 diamond in the process.

Micherre Fox of Manhattan wanted the perfect engagement ring.

"There's something symbolic about being able to solve problems with money, but sometimes money runs out in a marriage, she said in a recent news release from Arkansas State Parks. You need to be willing and able to solve those problems with hard work.

So, she decided to source the diamond for her engagement ring at the so-called world-famous Crater of Diamonds State Park.

Micherre Fox of Manhattan saw what she thought was a spiderweb in an Arkansas park and decided to kick it, discovering an estimated $27,000 diamond in the process (Arkansas State Parks)

For three weeks, Fox searched tirelessly for her perfect diamond, and as luck would have it, she came across what she thought was a dew-covered spiderweb on her last day at the park.

Fox kicked the web, and when its shine remained, she realized it was a stone.

"Having never seen an actual diamond in my hands, I didnt know for sure, but it was the most diamond-y diamond I had seen, she said.

Staffers at the Diamond Discovery Center confirmed she found a white, or colorless, diamond. It weighed an impressive 2.3 carats, which is about the size of a human canine tooth, according to the news release.

Fox spent three weeks at the Crater of Diamonds State Park before finding the 2.3-carat diamond (Arkansas State Park)

I got on my knees and cried, then started laughing, Fox recalled.

Diamond comparison site StoneAlgo said the average price of a 2.3-carat diamond is around $27,000.

Fox named the gem, which is a tradition for stones found at the park, the Fox-Ballou Diamond, after her and her partners last names. She plans to have the diamond set in her engagement ring, which her partner agreed to wait to give her until she accomplished her goal.

The news release stated 366 diamonds were registered at the park in 2025. Just 11 of them weighed more than one carat each.

In total, more than 75,000 diamonds have been found at the park since the first diamonds were discovered in 1906.
Russia has signaled to the U.S. that it may be willing to end the war in Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters Tuesday.

"We had a call with President Trump and with some European leaders. During the call, there was a signal from Mr. Witkoff, who was also on the call, that Russia is ready to end the war  ready for a first step, at least, toward a ceasefire," Zelenskyy said, referencing U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. "And that this is the first such signal from them."

However, Zelenskyy also warned that "talks about us, without us, will not work," ahead of President Trump's one-on-one summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska scheduled for Friday.

The call involving Zelenskyy, Mr. Trump and Witkoff took place last week, a spokesperson for Zelenskyy's office told CBS News Tuesday.

While Zelenskyy said "everyone on the call" was encouraged by what was viewed as a "shift" in Russia's position, the Ukrainian leader said Ukraine will not, under any circumstances, withdraw its forces from the Russian-occupied Donbas region in the east of Ukraine.

"Our territories are illegally occupied. For the Russians, Donbas is a springboard for a future new offensive. If we leave Donbas of our own accord or under pressure, we will invite a third war," Zelenskyy said.

Trump-Putin meeting to take place on Alaskan military base

The summit between Mr. Trump and Putin is the first in-person meeting between Putin and a sitting U.S. president since Russia invaded Ukraine more than three years ago.

The meeting will take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, on the northern edge of Anchorage, a senior White House official told CBS News on Tuesday. Given that it is peak tourist season in Alaska, there were few viable options to host the talks. Possible venues for the high-stakes meeting also needed to meet security requirements.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters earlier Tuesday that the mechanics of the meeting were "still being ironed out."

Leavitt described the meeting as "a listening exercise for the president."

"Only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present, and so this is for the president to go and to get, again, a more firm and better understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end," Leavitt said.

It is widely expected that Putin will demand that Ukrainian forces withdraw from all parts of Ukraine's Donbas region parts of which Russian forces held since the country's 2014 annexation of the Crimean peninsula. Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the area under Russian occupation has increased, though Ukrainian forces do currently hold territory in parts of Donetsk, a province located within the Donbas.

Ahead of Mr. Trump's meeting with Putin, a spokesperson for Zelenskyy's office has confirmed to CBS News that he will attend a virtual meeting Wednesday with Mr. Trump and European leaders to discuss the war.

Speaking to reporters in the White House briefing room Monday, Mr. Trump expressed optimism that his meeting with Putin will be "constructive," and said that he is planning to establish an in-person meeting involving Putin and Zelenskyy.

"The next meeting will be with Zelenskyy and Putin or Zelenskyy and Putin and me," Mr. Trump said.

But Zelenskyy was adamant in his remarks Tuesday that no such meeting should take place without the involvement of European leaders.

"The presence of Europe in one form or another is very important, because ultimately, so far, no one but Europe has provided us with security guarantees," he said.

As for Mr. Trump's meeting with Putin in Alaska, Zelenskyy said that the meeting would only benefit one person  the Russian leader.

"I believe that Putin will benefit from this, because what he is seeking, frankly, is photographs. He needs a photo from a meeting with President Trump," Zelenskyy said. "Ukrainian issues should be discussed by at least three parties."

President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
Indian PM to meet Trump next month in U.S.: media

Xinhua) 15:12, August 13, 2025

NEW DELHI, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet U.S. President Donald Trump during his visit to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next month, local newspaper Indian Express said Wednesday.

According to the newspaper, preparations are underway to schedule a visit by Modi to the U.S. in the last week of September.

"The key objective will be to iron out the issues on trade and arrive at a common ground on tariffs," the newspaper said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
MIAMI, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Boat Trader, the industry-leading online marketplace for buying and selling boats, announced today its suite of innovative new features set to transform the boat-buying experience for consumers and empower sellers to reach more buyers than ever before. With these advancements, Boat Trader reinforces its commitment to transparency, trust, and creating purposeful connections throughout the entire buying process.

Search boats by image (PRNewsfoto/Boat Trader)

As technology continues to reshape consumer behavior, Boat Trader's latest product releases deliver powerful digital tools to engage buyers and streamline processes for sellers. Buyer behavior is increasingly shifting toward longer research phases and less immediate lead submission. Boat Trader's latest innovations keep boats visible throughout the processfrom initial search to connection, financing and closing the dealensuring sellers stay connected to motivated buyers every step of the way.

One of the standout features is the upgraded My Boats account, which now syncs seamlessly between the mobile app and desktop. This enables users to save, track, and revisit boats across devices. Whether on mobile or desktop, consumers can compare options, receive real-time notifications for updates, price changes, or new listings, and stay engaged with boats they're interested inkeeping sellers' boats top of mind even when buyers aren't ready to submit a lead immediately.

"We understand that today's buyers and sellers expect morethey want a seamless, engaging experience across devices that keeps them connected through the process," said Mike Grabowski, Chief Product Officer at Boat Trader. "Our latest innovations provide a smarter, more intuitive way to interact with boats, ensuring that every transaction is more informed, transparent, and valuable."

New Features:

Smart Listing Builder: Automates the creation of boat descriptions that are optimized to surface the most relevant results, reducing listing creation time by up to 70%.





Automates the creation of boat descriptions that are optimized to surface the most relevant results, reducing listing creation time by up to 70%. New Mobile and Desktop Experiences: The new search overhaul provides buyers with more filters and streamlined navigation. Sellers benefit from features like the "More From This Dealer" section and lead forms, resulting in a 30% increase in mobile conversions.





The new search overhaul provides buyers with more filters and streamlined navigation. Sellers benefit from features like the section and lead forms, resulting in a 30% increase in mobile conversions. The Boat Trader App: With 50% growth in sessions and a 90% increase in conversions, the app improvements enable buyers to save favorite boats, receive real-time notifications for new listings or price changes, and use custom filters to find exactly what they're looking for.





With 50% growth in sessions and a 90% increase in conversions, the app improvements enable buyers to save favorite boats, receive real-time notifications for new listings or price changes, and use custom filters to find exactly what they're looking for. BoatWizard Enhancements for Sellers: AI-driven photo management tools that automatically optimize images, SEO-optimized titles, and new lead management tools to help sellers prioritize leads and respond more quickly.





AI-driven photo management tools that automatically optimize images, SEO-optimized titles, and new lead management tools to help sellers prioritize leads and respond more quickly. Market Insights Tools: Real-time data on comparable listings, trends, and market conditions, empowering buyers and sellers alike with the information needed to make informed decisions.





Real-time data on comparable listings, trends, and market conditions, empowering buyers and sellers alike with the information needed to make informed decisions. boato, The Only Image Search Tool in the Industry: This feature allows users to search for boats by uploading an image, creating a more interactive boat discovery experience and providing sellers with a unique opportunity to showcase their boats to a new audience.

"We believe technology should enhance, not replace, the personal connections that define the boating industry," said Grabowski. "These updates are just the beginning, and we're excited to share even more during our Inside the Product webinar this September."

For more information on the latest updates and to explore the new features, visit boatsgroup.com/product-updates.

About Boat Trader

Boat Trader is the largest online boating marketplace in the United States, connecting millions of boaters and buyers with thousands of dealers, brokers, private sellers, and manufacturers. Boat Trader offers AI-driven search tools, financing services, and market insights to make boat discovery and ownership accessible, engaging, and seamless.

Media Contact:

Courtney Chalmers

VP of Marketing, Boat Trader

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 1-877-354-4069

SOURCE Boat Trader
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by Nirmala Carvalho

Hundreds of members of the nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) stormed the maqbara (tomb) of Nawab Abdus Samad despite police barricades. According to extremist leaders, a Hindu temple once stood on the site. Local bishops appeal for tolerance.

Fatherpur (AsiaNews) - A group of fanatical Hindu extremists stormed a Muslim shrine in the Fatehpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Claiming that the structure was actually a temple demolished by Muslims, the attackers performed Hindu rituals.

The incident took place on 11 August. Hundreds of members of the nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), led by BJP district secretary Mukhlal Pal and former MP Vikram Singh, stormed the maqbara (tomb) of Nawab Abdus Samad despite police barricades. Some of them, armed with sticks and stones, damaged two mazar (shrines) inside.

According to Pal, it is an ancient temple, where there are symbols such as the trident and the lotus flower. Pal himself had previously urged members of the Hindu community to conduct religious rituals. Police authorities deployed a large number of officers to prevent further clashes, saying they would not allow anyone to change the status of the site until there was a court order or a directive from the Indian Archaeological Survey.

Mons. Louis Mascarenhas, bishop of Allahabad, told AsiaNews: Prior to Uttar Pradesh (UP) state assembly elections of 2022, on the spot, they shouted the slogan Ayodhya ki taiyyari hai, Kashi Mathura baki hai (Ayodhya is a preview, Kashi and Mathura remain).

Expressing sorrow and discouragement also for the attacks on Christian missionaries in Chhattisgarh and Orissa, Bishop Mascarenhas stressed that we are sadly witnessing growing intolerance among the various communities. We all live as equal citizens of a free nation.

Along the same lines, Bishop Gerald Mathias of Lucknow expressed his regret: It is so unfortunate and sad that a land known for tolerance is gradually but surely turning into an intolerant society.

The bishop denounced that Hindu fundamentalists go around as vigilantes, disrupting religious services, vandalising places of worship, threatening and beating up worshippers, damaging property. He added that the police often become silent spectators or collude with the criminals and arrest innocent people without any evidence of the charges.

According to Bishop Mathias, this behaviour has become a pattern that is repeated, and the perpetrators feel encouraged to continue these antisocial and inhuman activities because no action is taken against them. Indeed, they seem to be protected, encouraged by the establishment or seem to have tacit permission.

The bishop concluded with an appeal: I hope and pray that common sense will prevail. May the majority community be truly kind, big-hearted, tolerant and allow everyone to have true freedom to follow the faith they have chosen, a fundamental right guaranteed by our Constitution, a human right granted to every human being by God Himself.
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Aleksey Fadeyev, Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, told reporters at a news briefing in Moscow on Tuesday that the specifics of the project, named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), have not yet been made public.

As we have already stated, the involvement of non-regional powers in the South Caucasus should promote a peace agenda rather than create new problems and new dividing lines, he said, as quoted by Russias TASS news agency.

Fadeyev reiterated Russias position that any connectivity initiative must take into account Armenias membership in the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union as well as the presence of Russian border guards in Armenias Syunik province.

These factors should be considered when working out decisions on unblocking transport communications in the region, he added.

During a meeting in Washington on August 8, the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the United States signed a joint declaration that, among other provisions, establishes a U.S. role in overseeing a transit route through Armenia, which Azerbaijan has demanded as a link to its Nakhichevan exclave.

The Washington accords received broad international support, including endorsements from Western and regional leaders, but Russia as well as Iran immediately expressed concern over the U.S. involvement in the proposed project.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian on Monday held phone calls with the presidents of Iran and Russia, Masoud Pezeshkian and Vladimir Putin, to brief them on the outcome of the Washington meetings. He assured both leaders that regional communication channels will operate under the principles of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and jurisdiction of countries, and on the basis of reciprocity. Pashinian also highlighted opportunities for broader regional cooperation.
Five Finalists Come from Across the Globe to Central New York to Compete for a $1 million Grand Prize Investment.

Program is supported by "CNY Rising"  The Region's Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy

SYRACUSE, N.Y., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Empire State Development (ESD) this week announced the five teams selected to take part in round nine of the yearlong GENIUS NY business accelerator. The finalists were chosen from a highly competitive application process that received submissions from startups from around the world, including record interest from U.S. companies. These teams will compete for a total of $3 million in direct investment, with one grand prize of up to $1 million and four $500,000 awards. The program is the largest business accelerator for the uncrewed systems and robotics industry in the world. Supported by the CNY Rising Upstate Revitalization Initiative (URI) and administered by CenterState CEO, GENIUS NY brings companies to Central New York to participate in the yearlong in-residence accelerator where they receive assistance with product development, business development, as well as networking opportunities with investors and business leaders. GENIUS NY participants are required to commit to operating their business in Central New York for at least one year.

"The GENIUS NY accelerator has supported the state's efforts to establish Central New York as a hub for the uncrewed aerial systems industry by attracting next-generation entrepreneurs to the region," Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said. "New York's ongoing UAS investments and commitment continue to create new high-tech jobs and growth, further establishing the State as an industry leader."

This year's five finalists include two teams from Central New York and one women-founded startup.

The five selected finalists are:

Flox (Stockholm, Sweden): AI that understands and speaks to wild animalsrunning on Edge pods, drones, and trains to steer wildlife away from critical areas.

Lamarr AI (New York, USA): Uses drones and AI to inspect building exteriors, delivering faster, more affordable, and more accurate data than traditional methods.

Lighthouse Avionics (Ohio, USA): Offers low-cost optical solutions to monitor low-altitude airspace for drone threats, bird strikes, and FAA compliance.

Modovolo (New York, USA): A drone company building low-cost, modular aircraft with extended flight times, designed for a wide range of commercial and defense uses.

Skyfire AI (New Jersey, USA): Deploys autonomous drone swarms and AI to improve response times and situational awareness for first responders and defense teams.

The chosen finalists will work to build relationships in the region, develop their go-to-market plans, and spend time refining their pitches before presenting to a panel of judges at Innovation Night on May 7, 2026. The signature finals night event's move from the fall to next spring will afford the teams greater opportunity to become a part of the community.

Kara Jones, Director of GENIUS NY, said, "This year's finalists bring the latest in uncrewed aerial and robotics technology right here to Central New York. Our community's robust UAS ecosystem, resources and expertise make this region the perfect launching pad for these innovative startups. We're excited that this year's teams are further along in their businesses, many with proven traction, active pilots or commercial deployments. These companies are building technologies that solve real-world problems across defense, infrastructure, and public safety. We're eager to introduce these businesses to the Central New York community and begin offering them the top-of-the-line assets and resources that GENIUS NY is known for as they become the first cohort to operate out of the INSPYRE Innovation Hub."

CenterState CEO's INSPYRE Innovation Hub is the largest business incubator in New York. The brand new, expanded facility features a hardware center, makerspace, uncrewed systems testing deck and much more. Program benefits also include access to experts and other founders specific to their industry, executive advisors, marketing and fundraising support, industry-focused events, the opportunity to apply for the UAS Job Fund, as well as access to platforms such as PitchBook, and offer companies AWS credits.

Ben Sio, acting president of CenterState CEO, said, "The success of the GENIUS NY program and the impact teams have had on the Central New York community perfectly illustrates why the region's becoming a globally recognized leader in UAS spaces. We're especially excited this year to welcome this cohort into the INSPYRE Innovation Hub, a physical symbol of the region's growing innovation economy. INSPYRE was built with GENIUS NY in mind, and I look forward to seeing how the teams utilize all that the new space and this community has to offer for them to grow and thrive."

Since 2017, GENIUS NY has invested nearly $24 million in 42 companies from around the world. In addition, GENIUS NY companies have raised more than $350 million in follow-on funding and have created hundreds of new jobs in New York state.

State Senator Rachel May said, "It's exciting to see the continued success of the GENIUS NY business Accelerator. Now in its ninth round, this program has become an integral part of our growing drone industry, attracting more tech businesses to Central New York and strengthening the local economy. Congratulations to the five teams selected for this latest round, and I look forward to the innovation you'll bring to the region."

State Senator Chris Ryan said, "The further development of UAS right here at home is incredibly important as Central NY continues to grow and welcome pioneering technologies. The proven success of the GENIUS NY accelerator program will launch these companies towards success, with CenterState CEO's INSPYRE Innovation Hub being the perfect place to support their groundbreaking work. Congratulations to all of the companies accepted into this year's cohort, we look forward to welcoming you to our community."

Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli said, "Congratulations to the finalists. The Genius NY Competition continues to help Central New York maintain its status as a hub for innovative companies exploring uses for uncrewed aerial systems and other leading-edge technologies. The partnerships and opportunities created locally during the entrepreneurial stage create a catalyst for growth in our Central New York region."

Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, "GENIUS NY continues to be a powerful driver of innovation and economic opportunity in Central New York. By attracting top talent and cutting-edge technology from around the globe, this program is helping to position our region as a national leader in the uncrewed systems industry. I'm proud to support initiatives like GENIUS NY that are not only building the high-tech economy of the future, but also creating good-paying jobs and new opportunities for the people who call this community home."

Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, "Nowhere else in the world can Unmanned Aerial Systems businesses start, grow and thrive with as many assets, services and as much expertise as Central NY. In a period of a dozen or more years we have created a complete ecosystem for research, testing and manufacturing, which attracts UAS companies from all over the world. Congratulations to this set of Genius NY finalists. We welcome you to our community and believe you will come to love it for all it has to offer."

Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, "As we continue our focused work to grow and diversify our local economy, we are incredibly excited to welcome these teams to our community. The GENIUS NY competition continues to serve as a platform to showcase why Central New York is an exceptional place to grow a business. I wish these innovators the best of luck and we are ready to provide them with any support that they may need."

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, "The GENIUS NY program has put Syracuse and Central New York on the map as a top destination in the world for innovators in uncrewed aerial systems. It's become an important part of the Syracuse Surge, our strategy for inclusive growth in the New Economy. I'm excited to see another round of outstanding teams committing to this yearlong in-residence program in Syracuse. I thank New York State Empire Statement Development, CenterState CEO, and the Upstate Revitalization Initiative for continuing to invest in the GENIUS NY program."

Central New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Randy Wolken, President & CEO of MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, and Le Moyne College President Linda M. LeMura said, "Congratulations to the latest innovative teams selected to take part in the highly successful GENIUS NY competition. We are proud to welcome these imaginative entrepreneurs to the region as they work to grow their forward-thinking ideas. Through the regional council's continued support for this competition, we are ensuring that New York state remains at the forefront of the growing UAS industry in Central New York, creating new opportunities and jobs for residents in the region for generations to come."

For additional information about GENIUS NY, visit: https://geniusny.com/.

For additional information about CenterState CEO, visit: https://centerstateceo.com/.

Accelerating CNY Rising

Today's announcement complements "CNY Rising" the region's comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on capitalizing on global market opportunities, strengthening entrepreneurship and creating an inclusive economy. More information is available here.

About Empire State Development

Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state's 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils , supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state's world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov , and connect with ESD on LinkedIn , Facebook and X .

Contact:

Shari Voorhees-Vincent | [email protected]| (585)399-7055

Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313

Katie Zilcosky| [email protected] | (680)322-3374

SOURCE CenterState CEO
13 August 2025 13:42 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The 7 August strike on the State Oil Company of Azerbaijans (SOCAR) storage facility in Ukraines Odessa region is more than an isolated act of wartime vandalism. It represents a calculated escalation by Moscow, striking not merely at Ukraines energy infrastructure but at a foreign commercial asset with geopolitical resonance. Carried out with Iranian-supplied Shahed drones, the attack underscores the deepening strategic convergence between Russia and Iran, a partnership increasingly weaponised to disrupt regional energy flows.

Moreover, the damagesevere enough to ignite a large-scale fire and rupture a diesel pipelineinjured four Azerbaijani employees and momentarily disrupted SOCARs operations. Yet beyond the immediate human and material toll lies a more complex message: that Russia is willing to target Azerbaijani-linked assets abroad when it suits its wider objectives, even at the risk of provoking diplomatic friction with Baku. The incident, swiftly contained by Ukrainian emergency services, raises pressing questions about the security of foreign energy investments in active conflict zones and the vulnerability of critical supply chains to hybrid warfare tactics.

Furthermore, this attack is far from an isolated event. It occurred just hours after a historic trilateral summit at the White House, where Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a peace treaty brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, marking a pivotal moment in the South Caucasus peace process. Moscows strike on an internationally significant Azerbaijani energy asset abroad sends a clear message of military provocation and signals growing hostility toward Azerbaijans expanding geopolitical and economic role in the region.

The damage goes beyond physical destruction. The Orlovka gas compressor station in Odessacritical for transporting Azerbaijani gas to Ukraine through reverse flowswas also targeted on August 5, underscoring Russias broader strategy to disrupt regional energy cooperation and isolate its neighbours economically and politically. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline, a major artery of regional energy supply, faces an increasingly precarious future amid these tensions.

Historically, relations between Russia and Azerbaijan were relatively warm, but official contacts have frozen over the past four months. Moscows view of post-Soviet neighbours as geopolitical pawns rather than equal partners increasingly strains trust, leaving Azerbaijan vulnerable to indirect pressure. The BTC pipeline and other energy infrastructures risk becoming accidental targets under the guise of technical failuresdisruptions that would carry profound regional and international consequences.

Peter Marko Tase, Founder of the Azerbaijan - United States Business and Education Council, told Azernews that such an attack is clearly not collateral damage; it reflects Russias brutal invasion and deliberate targeting of Azerbaijans flagship energy company:

It would be a unique coincidence that such a drone attack or so called accident, against Azerbaijans largest oil and gas company in Ukraine would happen only less than ten hours after the trilateral Summit at the Trump White House where over a three decades long conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, came to an end thanks to the remarkable leadership of President Ilham Aliyev and the unbridled commitment of President Donald J Trump.

Russia attacked the storage base of Azerbaijani oil, administered by SOCAR, which is the main supply source of fuel products destined for European markets. This brutal action by Moscow illustrates a significant escalation of military attacks joined by Sergey Lavrovs expanding information and hybrid warfare against the Republic of Azerbaijan and the economic interests of Azerbaijan in Europe. The August 8-9 attack against SOCAR headquarters in Odessa Region is an atrocious act that EU member countries must loudly condemn. Such an abhorrent, evil attack carries two principal messages: Russias campaign targeting Ukraines energy infrastructure, also Putins hegemonic aspirations towards the Southern Caucasus region.

The August 8th visit to the White House by the president of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has made Moscow furious, and the latest Russian attack against SOCARs base is an expression of belligerence and a blatant act of military provocation from Russian Forces against the territory of Azerbaijan in Ukraine. Russia must condemn all responsible officers who shot down the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 on 25 December 2024, resulting in the death of 38 passengers and 29 wounded.

The geopolitical interests of Azerbaijan have historically aligned closely with those of Washington. The peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, signed at the White House last Friday, marks a significant milestone in both American diplomacy and Azerbaijani foreign policy since the collapse of the Soviet Union in December 1991.

Russia, employing its covert intelligence tactics and engaging in hybrid warfare and cyber operations within the territories of Azerbaijan, Ukraine, and the United States, is likely to lose credibility and valuable opportunities for cooperation in international trade. Furthermore, Moscow will face challenges in capitalizing on regional economic and transportation projects and will lose crucial avenues for promoting its cultural assets and literature. It will take many years for Russia to rebuild trust and establish genuine bilateral dialogue with the Republic of Azerbaijan."
13 August 2025 19:54 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

TrumpPutin Summit:

Symbolic but fraught: first bilateral summit on US soil since 1988.

Ukraine sidelined; risk of forced territorial swaps without its consent.

Could legitimise aggression and enable delays for Russia to reinforce.

Concessions to Russia:

Dangerous precedent; diplomatic pause but not peace.

Weakens Western unity, emboldens further expansionism.

South Caucasus Ramifications:

US-brokered infrastructure projects like the "Trump Corridor" already shifting regional balance.

Could form the backbone of a larger US strategic footprint.

Risks: sovereignty concerns, regional backlash, and Russian retaliation.

The summit between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin, scheduled for 15 August 2025 in Anchorage, Alaska, is extraordinary in both form and timing. It marks the first in-person meeting on US soil since the 1988 Governors Island Summit. Alaska, a former Russian territory acquired by the United States in 1867, carries enduring historical and symbolic weight in USRussian relations.

Officially billed as a "listening exercise", the summit nonetheless brims with geopolitical hazard. Ukraine, entirely excluded, has been rendered an observer of its own fate, even as its very territory is on the table. This imbalance mirrors Trumps history of favouring theatrical peace over substantive gain, exemplified most famously in Helsinki 2018.

Risks of territorial concessions for Ukraine

A major concern is Trumps public suggestion of "some swapping of territories" between Russia and Ukraine. Analysts warn that pressuring Ukraine into such swaps, especially without its direct involvement or consent, risks legitimising aggression, eroding sovereignty, and emboldening further Russian expansion. The Atlantic Council warns that such a concession may pause hostilities, but definitively prevent a durable peace.

Indeed, Russia appears to be exploiting this diplomatic opportunity. Putin is seeking to cement his territorial gains, keep Ukraine out of NATO, and prevent Western troops from redeploying near its borderseffectively redrawing the strategic map with American acquiescence. His forces continue to press offensives at Dobropillia and other fronts, signalling that any ceasefire without Ukrainian participation may merely enable further advances.

Although Trumps team has attempted damage control, casting the summit as exploratory rather than definitive, and insisting no unilateral deal will be made, the optics are perilous. Ukraines President Zelensky has insisted repeatedly: "No one will back off from this Ukrainians will not surrender their land". European leaders have echoed this sentiment, emphasising that meaningful negotiations must include Ukraine, occur within a ceasefire framework, and uphold international law.

Trumps upcoming Alaska meeting, which is set to take place without Ukraine, has once again drawn not so much the approval as the anger of official Kyiv and European leaders. This, in turn, is a clear indication that no decisive outcome is likely to be achieved. Presumably, Donald Trump is effectively engaging in open bargaining over the world map. To some, this makes him appear less a bold diplomat and more a trader who relishes taking risks.

Consequences for South Caucasus: New front of interests

With the spotlight on the TrumpPutin summit, few have adequately considered its implications for the South Caucasus. Yet, that region is already being reshaped by US initiatives that sharply reduce Russian sway.

Most notably, the US-brokered Zangazur Corridor (also labelled "TRIPP") deal effectively creates a transit route linking mainland Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan over Armenian territory. The United States will sublease the land under Armenian jurisdiction for nearly a century, enabling road, rail, energy, and telecom infrastructure projects, a striking geopolitical move to bypass Russian and Iranian influence. Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev and Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan praised the deal as a breakthrough, while critics warn of sovereignty issues and authoritarian risk.

This demonstrates that, while Trump may appear to grant ground in Europe, he is simultaneously extending American influence eastwards.

However, the true nature of the matter is entirely different from how it appears.

First and foremost, the corridor known as Zangazur or TRIPP holds historical and strategic significance above all for Azerbaijan, which is why its opening carries vital importance for the region. Until now, neither the United States nor any other party has shown as much interest or persistence in the opening of the Zangazur Corridor as Azerbaijan. Since the 1920s, the deliberate appropriation of Zangazur lands by Armenia and the settlement of an Armenian population there have, from time to time, placed the territory of Nakhchivan in an artificial state of blockade. During the thirty years of occupation, Azerbaijan repeatedly appealed to the United Nations and several other international organisations to lift Nakhchivans blockade, yet such efforts proved futilejust as they did in relation to the occupation of Garabagh.

Ultimately, although the territorial dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Garabagh was resolved through force, the Zangazur issue remained on the agenda as a contentious matter. Choosing a joint mediator for this issue had to be based on the mutual consent of the partieseither Russia or the United States.

Naturally, Russias increasingly tense relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan in recent times have cast doubt over its credibility as a mediator. Moreover, Armenia and its historic enemy Irandespite Moscow and Tehrans outward claims of strategic cooperationtook a sharply negative stance, effectively sidelining Russia. The more pragmatic and economically promising approach of the United States, and in particular of Donald Trump, has therefore made it appear the more suitable partner in the South Caucasus.

Trumps South Caucasus strategy amid Russian expansionism

If Trump goes ahead with concessions to Russia over Ukraine, the South Caucasus may become even more strategically desirable, both as a zone for US infrastructure diplomacy and a buffer against Russian power projection. The Zangazur Corridor (TRIPP) already serves as tangible proof of this concept.

Trump might implement a broader "South Caucasus project" by doubling down on infrastructure and trade deals, seeking to entrench US interests, foster regional interdependence, and weaken Russian linkage. Armenias opening, Azerbaijans strategic need for connectivity, and Turkiyes and Central Asias western orientation all present ripe opportunities.

However, such moves risk exacerbating regional tensions, especially if local actors perceive US involvement as leverage over domestic issues or sovereignty. Moreover, if Trumps concessions in Ukraine embolden Russia, Moscow may retaliate by ramping up pressure in Garabagh or Georgia, challenging US-backed stability.

Securing the corridor will require sustained diplomatic pressure, careful management of Armenian concerns, and a willingness to navigate the sensitivities of regional players. It will also demand that Azerbaijan continue to assert its priorities clearly and consistentlyan area where Baku has already demonstrated considerable skill.

The ultimate success of the project will rest on whether it is framed not as a concession to any one power, but as a mutually beneficial arrangement rooted in the principles of sovereignty, connectivity, and regional stability.

Azerbaijans steadfast pursuit of the Zangazur Corridor underscores both its diplomatic agility and its political will to secure strategic objectives despite external pressures. Baku has shown that it will neither yield to regional manipulation nor accept arrangements that undermine its sovereignty. Against the backdrop of Russias expansionist ambitions and the United States re-energised engagement in the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan has positioned itself as the decisive actor shaping the regions future.

By balancing assertive diplomacy with strategic partnerships, Azerbaijan is not merely reacting to the shifting balance of power - it is actively influencing it. In doing so, it has ensured that the Zangazur Corridor is more than a line on a map; it is a statement of national resilience and a pillar of the countrys long-term geopolitical strategy.
13 August 2025 16:54 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

In recent weeks, Russian media outlets, state-sanctioned and unrelentingly belligerent, have amplified threats against Azerbaijan, signalling yet again Moscows obsession with coercion as a tool of influence. These threats, which intensified after the downing of an Azerbaijani Air flight, have reached a crescendo in the wake of Azerbaijan and Armenias Washington declaration, a diplomatic gesture that Moscow clearly resents. It is tempting to dismiss these signals as empty posturing. Yet, the Kremlins reliance on intimidation exposes a deeper truth: Russia has little to offer the world beyond the spectacle of force.

The historical context is instructive. The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia did not begin in the post-Soviet era; it predates the very independence of these states. And Russia, far from being an impartial partner, has been a consistent provocateur. Kremlin strategists have long understood that their country lacks meaningful economic or technological innovation to project power globally. Thus, they have cultivated influence through war, coercion, and the manipulation of neighbourly disputes. This is not a strategy; it is desperation disguised as ambition.

Yet the world has changed. Neither Azerbaijan nor even its erstwhile ally Armenia sees Russia as indispensable. To ally with Moscow today is, in the long run, to accept stagnation and impoverishment. The lesson is clear: the farther one can distance oneself from Russian control, the better. History has repeatedly shown that Russias presence is seldom a boon.

Consider Azerbaijan itself. When the Soviet Union invaded the country back in the 1920s, Azerbaijans population stood at roughly 4.5 million. By the 1990s, that number had barely exceeded 7 million, despite the demographic explosion in neighbouring regions: in southern Azerbaijan under Iranian rule, the population tripled to 2025 million, while Turkiyes population surged from 10 million to over 60 million in the same span. Russias stewardship was nothing short of catastrophic. Beyond famine, purges, and the terror campaigns of the 1930s, Moscow funnelled Azerbaijanis into wars that served only its own imperial ambitions.

Resource exploitation tells the same story. When the Soviets controlled Azerbaijan, the country produced 6070 per cent of the worlds oil. Yet by the time Russia withdrew, Azerbaijans control over its own resources was minimal. The country could not export crude until the late 1990s, and today, its contribution to the global oil market barely reaches one per cent. Had Azerbaijan avoided Russian domination, one can reasonably speculate that its population would now be 3040 million, and its standard of living could rival that of the Gulf states or Scandinavia. Instead, Russia has left a legacy of constrained development, a bitter reminder that imperialism is rarely philanthropic.

Today, Kremlin propagandists imagine that threats alone will cow Azerbaijan into compliance. But the Azerbaijani people, scarred by history, understand the reality: there is no life under Russian domination. The choice is stark and familiareither accept Moscows authority and perish slowly, or resist and risk death on the battlefield.

Meanwhile, Russias recent misadventures, from the botched three-day invasion of Ukraine to the ongoing quagmire, reveal the hollow core of Kremlin power. And yet, the same Kremlin voices, brashly and without reflection, continue to threaten Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan and more, as though the passage of time or the lessons of history could be ignored. Observers can easily see the motivations behind these threats; the Russians themselves seem incapable of the same insight.

It must be acknowledged, however, that Soviet exploitation did occasionally yield geopolitical clout. By the mid-20th century, the USSR had become a superpower, partly through the indirect assistance of the United States and Britain, which supplied technology and resources that the Soviets could never produce on their own. Today, the mouthpieces of the Kremlin misread this historical fact, imagining that the brute force that worked in 1939 Finland or during the Soviet ascendancy can somehow be replicated today. But the world is no longer structured to enable Russian delusions of grandeur. Finland then was a strategic jewel; today, the former Soviet republics are independent actors, often supported by NATO and the United States, capable of restraining Russian overreach.

Russias narrative of invincibility has collapsed. There is no longer a race to the moon, no technological or economic miracles, and no allies waiting with open arms. Moscow now looks to Iran and North Korea for aid, a sobering testament to its diminished stature. The myth of Russian mightcarefully cultivated through decades of propagandais dead. And yet, Kremlin voices, clinging to outdated scripts of dominance, continue to issue threats, exposing the emptiness of their ambitions.

The lesson for Azerbaijan, Armenia, and the broader region is unequivocal: Russias power is overstated, its intentions predictable, and its methods destructive. Those who wish to live freely cannot do so under the shadow of Moscow. History is not on the Kremlins side, and the sooner regional actors recognise that, the sooner they can secure their own sovereignty and prosperity.

The Russian empire, once feared, is now a cautionary tale. Its attempts to intimidate Azerbaijan and its neighbours are as futile as they are revealing. The world watches as a once-feared power clings desperately to old illusions, while the countries it seeks to dominate move forward with the clarity that survival demands. The era of Russian invincibility is over. It is time the Kremlin recognised itand time for the region to act accordingly.
13 August 2025 14:45 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

In the first half of this year, Azerbaijani banks executed 2,148 unsecured agreements on the Bloomberg trading system, with a total value of 41.4 billion (approximately $24.3 billion), Azernews reports, citing the Central Bank of Azerbaijans Monetary Policy Review.

The report notes that compared to the same period last year, the number of agreements rose by 54.6%, while the total value increased by 26.2%.

During the reporting period, 95% of these transactions were short-term, lasting between one and three days.
13 August 2025 14:21 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to strengthening brotherly relations with Azerbaijan, emphasizing shared values, mutual trust, and common aspirations, Azernews reports.

That during a meeting with Azerbaijani Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov at the Aywan al-Sadr Palace, President Zardari underlined the potential for expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and regional integration. He stressed that strengthening economic ties will bring the two countries closer together and contribute to common prosperity.

The Pakistani President also congratulated the ambassador on the signing of the historic Agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington, calling it an important step towards lasting peace, stability, and development in the region.

Welcoming the opening of direct flights between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, President Zardari noted that the new air link creates new opportunities for trade, tourism, and people-to-people contacts.

Additionally, he expressed gratitude to Azerbaijan for its continued support for Pakistans position on Jammu and Kashmir, particularly within the framework of the OIC Contact Group.
13 August 2025 16:19 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

A shipment of humanitarian aid consisting of electrical equipment will be sent from Azerbaijan to Ukraine, Azernews reports.

The aid, intended to support Ukraines energy infrastructure, will be dispatched from the Sumgait Technologies Park.

According to a presidential decree signed by President Ilham Aliyev on August 11, 2025, the Azerbaijani government has allocated funds equivalent to $2 million in local currency for this purpose.

The first shipment includes electrical cables, wires, and transformers as part of the initial phase of assistance.

Representatives from Azerbaijans Ministry of Energy and the Ukrainian Embassy in Azerbaijan will be present at the official send-off ceremony.

It should be noted that the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Jahid Mikayilov, provided details regarding the composition of the humanitarian cargo.

According to him, the shipment includes up to 90,000 meters of electrical cables and wires, along with 25 generators and 7 sets of transformers.

He stated that the purpose of sending the equipment is to support the restoration of electricity supply in areas affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine:

"Humanitarian aid consisting of 10 trucks (TIRs) is being dispatched today. The cargo is expected to reach Ukraine within two weeks.

The next batch of equipmentorganized at the request of the Ukrainian side and with a total value of 2 million USDwill be sent via an additional 9 trucks (TIRs).

The equipment was manufactured in Azerbaijan."
13 August 2025 11:45 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Azerbaijan has reiterated its dedication to deepening cooperation with NATO, highlighting its role in promoting global peace and security, Azernews reports.

The countrys mission to the Alliance shared a statement on social network X, noting:

Dear Mr.Ruge, thank you very much for your kind congratulations. Azerbaijan highly values @NATOs continuous support. Azerbaijan remains committed to its partnership with #NATO and is determined in its contribution to the international peace and security within the framework of https://t.co/BrMpQDHre9  Azerbaijan at NATO  (@AzMissionNATO) August 12, 2025

The mission also expressed appreciation to NATO Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy, Boris Ruge, for his congratulatory message regarding the agreements reached between Azerbaijan and Armenia during the August 8 talks in Washington.

It was further noted that Boris Ruge met today with representatives of Azerbaijan and Armenia at NATO headquarters to discuss the outcomes of the meeting between the leaders of the two countries in Washington.
13 August 2025 12:21 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The Kazakh government has allocated significant funding to support the development of the countrys Caspian Sea Scientific Research Institute, Azernews reports via Kazakhstani media.

In line with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayevs instructions for a comprehensive study of Caspian Sea issues, 305 million tenge (approximately $564,000) has been allocated from government reserves to the institute. Prime Minister Oljas Bektenov officially signed the decision.

Established by order of President Tokayev, the Caspian Sea Scientific Research Institute is tasked with addressing ecological problems in the region. Its activities include assessing fish resources, developing methods and technologies for their protection, studying the causes of mass extinction of ichthyofauna and seals, and working to preserve their populations. The institute also specialises in researching hydrological processes, monitoring sea levels, analysing climate change impacts, and collecting and studying data on water quality, biodiversity, and other environmental parameters in the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea and along its shores.

According to the government, the newly allocated funds will ensure timely and efficient scientific research across the institutes laboratories in hydrobiology, hydrochemistry, hydrometeorology, and satellite monitoring, as well as address other key research priorities.

In July this year, during the First International Environmental Conference in Russias Altai Republic, Prime Minister Bektenov highlighted the issue of Caspian Sea shallowing as one of the main regional challenges.

The Caspian Sea, the worlds largest enclosed body of water, is a unique ecosystem and a major source of aquatic bioresources. It plays a vital role in the sustainable development of Kazakhstans western regions and the country as a whole. The Kazakh sector of the sea has a coastline of 2,320 kilometres  the longest among all Caspian littoral states.
13 August 2025 16:37 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Ukraine extends its deep gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and the Government of Azerbaijan for their vital and much-needed humanitarian assistance and support.

Azernews reports that this was made by Yuriy Husyev, Ukraine's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, during a media briefing on the latest shipment of humanitarian aid sent from Azerbaijan to Ukraine.

The ambassador noted that the electrical equipment included in the aid package will be used to help restore Ukraines power infrastructure:

We especially appreciate that this is the second batch of electrical equipment aid weve received this year. Ukraine values Azerbaijans continued support highly, Husyev said.

He also emphasized Ukraines long-standing support for Azerbaijans sovereignty and territorial integrity:

We have always supported Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty. We are deeply grateful that Azerbaijan is standing by us during one of the darkest and most difficult periods in our history.

Earlier today, the first shipment of the latest humanitarian aid packageconsisting of electrical equipmentwas dispatched from Sumgait Technologies Park.

The aid is being provided by Azerbaijans Ministry of Energy, in accordance with a presidential decree signed by President Ilham Aliyev on August 11, 2025.

This initial shipment includes nearly 90,000 meters of electrical cables and wires, along with 25 generators and 7 sets of transformers. The equipment is intended to help restore a stable power supply to regions of Ukraine that have suffered damage due to the ongoing war.

The first batch was sent via a convoy of 10 trucks, and the next shipment, valued at a total of 2 million USD, is expected to be dispatched in the coming days based on further requests from the Ukrainian side.
13 August 2025 15:10 (UTC+04:00)

Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia sent a congratulatory letter to the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev.

Azernews presents the letter:

His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

"Your Excellency,

Please accept my sincere congratulations on the signing of the historic Joint Declaration with Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, as a witness, on the outcomes of Your Excellencies' meeting in Washington, D.C., on 8 August 2025.

Your Excellency's decisive and lawful actions-now recorded in modern history-have brought about the resolution of yet another protracted conflict in Asia.

This remarkable achievement by Azerbaijan has further demonstrated the country's steadfast commitment to promoting regional and global peace and security.

Under Your Excellency's strategic leadership, Azerbaijan's efforts have made an immense contribution to sustainable connectivity by unlocking the transit and transport potential of the vast CICA region, fostering intercultural dialogue, addressing the challenges of climate change, and strengthening CICA's capacity for mediation, conflict resolution, and post-conflict rehabilitation.

Your Excellency, please accept my heartfelt wishes for lasting prosperity and enduring peace for Azerbaijan and its people."
BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This year, Unitree Robotics' humanoid robots have gone viral, drawing unprecedented attention to China's humanoid robotics development. Alongside praise and encouragement, there have also been criticism and skepticism. Recently, at Unitree Robotics's headquarters in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province, Dou Hao (PD) from the People's Daily interviewed the company's founder, Wang Xingxing (Wang), an entrepreneur born in the 1990s, to hear his responses to social hotspots and his insights on industry development. This installment is among People's Daily's new interview series titled "Conversations with entrepreneurs on new initiatives."

PD: After appearing on the CCTV Spring Festival Gala, Unitree Robotics's humanoid robots have become a huge hit. Did you anticipate this?

Wang: To be honest, it was completely unexpected. In 2021, our "robot cow" appeared on the Spring Festival Gala, and this year we thought the impact might be similar. But the result far exceeded expectations, with many remembering the scene of dancing robots during the live show. In a way, it became a symbolic event blending traditional culture with high-tech, a cultural icon, and I feel honored.

PD: What impact has the sudden attention on humanoid robots had on your company?

Wang: High attention is good for the entire industry. Our company, other related enterprises and components makers all saw strong performance in the first half of this year.

Of course, with the spotlight comes pressure, too. More people are visiting, and interviewing us. I oversee tech and products, so these activities have taken some of my time. Industry growth needs attention, though it will have ups and downs before settling into rationality.

PD: Are there voices of doubt amid the attention your company has garnered?

Wang: Some people like it, some don't - that's normal. If everyone loves a company or a product, that would be abnormal.

PD: How far are humanoid robots from our everyday life applications?

Wang: They're still far from entering every home at current stage. The industry is in its early development phase, so we're starting with smaller areas like research, education, service displays, simple industrial uses, and at the same time, some artificial intelligence (AI) companies are using humanoid robots to explore new research fields too.

Our biggest goal, and current focus, is to make robots work. They can perform various actions and assist humans, but mass adoption of the robots in homes or factories isn't feasible due to technical limitations. Step-by-step progress is good, fostering more understanding and tolerance for the industry.

PD: What's the biggest challenge to mass adoption of humanoid robots?

Wang: The main hurdle is that the AI level of robots isn't advanced enough to break the critical threshold, which is also a global issue now. Breakthroughs in AI can happen anytime, as sudden technological leaps are common. Problems unsolvable now might suddenly be resolved some day in the future.

PD: How long will it take to overcome the mass adoption bottleneck?

Wang: Robot AI is progressing fast. For example, six months ago, I wouldn't have believed our robots could compete in martial arts matches - I thought it'd take at least one to two years - but it has happened in just a few months. Predicting industry growth is tough; notable progress might come in three to five years. Entering our homes will take longer due to ethical and safety concerns.

As long as AI keeps advancing, the robot industry will thrive - a clear trend over the past two to three years. People's imagination for AI is growing, and they are increasingly optimistic about the robotics industry. The spotlight around humanoid robots this year might just be a small spark in the long run, similar to the early days of the internet.

PD: What's the significance of robots competing in various events now?

Wang: As long as people enjoy it, providing emotional value is its worth. This also creates new market demand. Robot performances and competitions are vital to the future robot industry.

PD: Unitree Robotics started with robotic dogs but shifted to humanoid robots. Why drives the change?

Wang: It's mainly due to AI advancements. Early AI was single-function, like recognizing numbers or human faces. Recent years have seen multimodal general-purpose AI, capable of many tasks, requiring a versatile robot like our humanoid robots.

PD: Why are humanoid robots, specifically?

Wang: It's simple - more people like humanoid ones than dislike them, and the market is always rational.

PD: Where does China's humanoid robot industry stand globally?

Wang: We excel in manufacturing, with high global shipment volumes. Each country has its strengths. We have fewer AI talents now, but long-term competitiveness is strong. Our edge in production, hardware, and cost-effectiveness lowers usage barriers, aiding future mass adoption.

PD: How do you view competitors and their products?

Wang: The industry is hot, with many players, each with strengths. An open mindset and healthy competition benefit the sector.

PD: How important is computing power to the humanoid robot industry?

Wang: It's crucial, especially large-scale cluster computing. Robots are a collaborative creation with AI. Robots, especially humanoid ones, rely on batteries, and their battery load and power consumption limit their ability to carry large-scale computing power.

PD: How to address the computing power issue?

Wang: Future solutions may involve distributed computing. A factory with a centralized computing center could connect robots to it.

Proximity ensures sufficient bandwidth and low latency, whether wired or wireless. Connecting a Beijing robot to a Shanghai center would cause too much delay.

PD: Does the current talent supply meet industry development needs?

Wang: The humanoid robot sector has lacked talent. It's a new field, with skills developing only recently. It's still niche, with fewer entrants than expected. Talent quantity and quality need time to align with industry's growth.

PD: Which talents are most needed?

Wang: All roles - technical and non-technical, including business and human resources - with AI-field talent being the core.

PD: Have you considered collaborating with universities or research institutes?

Wang: We maintain close ties with both domestic and overseas universities. We aim to advance technology in the robotics and AI industries, and building more connections with universities and young people is very important.

Jointly promoting industry advancement has been our biggest contribution over the past few years. A company's success matters, but its impact on the industry and society is more important.

PD: Unitree Robotics once published a book on quadruped robots and promoted open-source technology. Why?

Wang: Beyond the book, we release open-source projects every few months. We aim to boost industry growth - strong industries benefit all companies - and cultivate talent.

Collaborating with universities, publishing books, or open-sourcing projects encourages more people, especially young people, to join and advance the field.

PD: Why is nurturing R&D talent a gradual process?

Wang: The industry evolves rapidly; maintaining a learning habit is the key. I manage company affairs during the day, but read some papers and write code at night, to always get relevant.

PD: How do you view the relationship between R&D and investment?

Wang: Whether learning new tech or developing products, defining direction is critical. Most R&D spending explores direction - the costliest part.

Staying sharp on tech and products can avoid detours. Test and explore at minimal cost, then focus on promising areas for deeper investment. This is crucial.

PD: What's your ultimate vision for the robot industry?

Wang: To drive technological progress, elevating human productivity. Inventions like steam engines and electricity helped transform our society. Currently, general AI and robots could have an even bigger impact, freeing humans from the grueling manual labor.

PD: Unitree Robotics was born in Hangzhou (Zhejiang). What's the relationship between the city and many technology firms?

Wang: Zhejiang Province offers an open, inclusive business environment. Tech firms thrive with young talent mastering new technologies. It can be understood in this way - cities attracting young people will see robust growth in the emerging high-tech industries.

PD: What support does the robot industry need?

Wang: The government already provides us with strong support. I hope people adopt a more open mindset toward new tech and new products. Industry cycles bring ups and downs - being popular today, but overlooked tomorrow. An open attitude toward fluctuations and greater confidence in the future are the biggest support for this industry.

SOURCE Global Times
13 August 2025 15:29 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Albania Bajram Begaj sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports.

The letter reads:

"His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Dear Mr. President,

On behalf of the people of Albania and in my own name, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the successful conclusion of a peace declaration between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia.

This agreement stands as a historic milestone, opening the way for a new era of cooperation and mutual understanding between our two nations. We deeply value the steadfast commitment and determination demonstrated by you, as well as by the United States of America.

I wish to take this opportunity to reaffirm that Albania attaches great importance to its friendship with Azerbaijan and to our steadily growing partnership, founded on mutual respect and shared interests. I am confident that, under your esteemed leadership, the bonds between our two countries will continue to flourish, and that Azerbaijan's standing and contribution in the international arena will be further enhanced.

With best wishes for the continued success of the peace process and for the prosperity of the friendly people of Azerbaijan, please accept Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration."
13 August 2025 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has publicly accused Apple of engaging in anticompetitive behavior that favors OpenAI over other artificial intelligence (AI) companies on its App Store, Azernews reports.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Musk claimed Apple is "behaving in a manner that makes it impossible" for any AI company besides OpenAI to achieve top-tier visibility in the App Store. He labeled the alleged favoritism an "unequivocal antitrust violation" and called for "immediate legal action" by his own AI venture, xAI Corp.

Musk also questioned Apple's editorial decisions, suggesting potential bias. In an earlier post, he criticized the company for excluding both X and xAIs chatbot Grok from the App Stores Must-Have apps section, despite their strong user engagement and popularity.

This looks a lot like Apple playing politics, Musk wrote, reigniting ongoing tensions between the tech giants over AI and platform dominance.
13 August 2025 22:24 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

On August 13, New Caledonias Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) confirmed that it has rejected the Bougeval Agreement, signed in early July with the government and pro-independence representatives, Azernews reports, citing French media outlets.

The decision to withdraw from the accordintended to establish a State of New Caledoniawas adopted during an extraordinary congress of the FLNKS on Saturday and formally announced at a press conference in Noumea on Wednesday.

Dominique Fochi, Secretary-General of the Caledonian Union and a member of the FLNKS Political Bureau, stated that the movement officially rejects the Bougeval Agreement draft because it does not align with the principles and achievements of our struggle.

The proposed text provided for the creation of a State of New Caledonia and Caledonian citizenship, as well as the possible transfer of sovereign powers such as currency, justice, and policing. However, it did not include the holding of a new referendum on independencean omission that has triggered strong backlash among independence supporters.
13 August 2025 21:40 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Kyiv is not considering any scenarios that would involve ceding part of its territory to Russia in exchange for ending the war, Azernews reports, citing Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, as he said at a joint press conference with his Czech counterpart, Jan Lipavsky.

Sybiha was responding to a journalists question regarding a recent White House statement on possible concessions. The minister reiterated President Volodymyr Zelenskys stance.

President Zelensky has already given a clear answer, and that answer is the Constitution of Ukraine. The Constitution contains all the responses to your question. Ukraine seeks a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace based on the UN Charter and international law, Sybiha stressed.

He emphasized that the priority at this stage is the introduction of a ceasefire regime that would serve as the foundation for future negotiations. The minister recalled that five months ago Ukraine accepted U.S. President Donald Trumps proposal for an unconditional ceasefire and is now waiting for a similar agreement from Russia.

Of course, what we need here is U.S. participation and leadership, and we are grateful for these efforts, the foreign minister concluded.

Earlier, President Donald Trump had said that an exchange of territories could be part of ending Russias war against Ukraine.
13 August 2025 20:21 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Hassan Sheibani is set to visit Turkiye today, Azernews reports, citing local media.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the visit but did not disclose its purpose.

It is worth noting that Minister Sheibani previously visited Turkiye in January of this year, accompanied by a high-level delegation.

During that trip, he held meetings with Turkiyes Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of National Defense, and the head of the National Intelligence Organization.
13 August 2025 16:23 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The Russian Foreign Ministry plans to study the details of the "TRIPP" project (Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity), also known as the Zangezur Corridor, which will pass through Armenian territory, Azernews reports.

Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Alexey Fadeyev, said at a briefing on Wednesday: As for the 'TRIPP', we have reserved our position. The Russian Foreign Ministry will study the details of the project, which, by the way, have not yet been made public. The involvement of extra-regional forces in the South Caucasus in this case should contribute to the advancement of the peace agenda, and not create new problems and new dividing lines.

Fadeyev added that when developing and making decisions on unblocking transport communications in the region, it is important to consider several factors, including Armenias membership in the Eurasian Economic Union and the presence of Russian border guards in the Syunik region.
Polls in France and the UK have shown parties of the populist anti-immigration right leading for some time, The National Rally of Marine LePen in France and the Reform Party of Nigel Farage, respectively. Now the third country of Europe's big three has joined the list, with a major poll showing Germany's populist nationalist anti-immigration Alternativ fur Deutschland (AfD) in the lead for the first time.

In a new poll for two German TV networks, the respected German polling frim Forsa found AfD in the lead at 26%, with the governing traditional conservative Christian Democrats second at 24%. The left of center Social Democrats were a distant third. at 13%.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/08/right-stuff-german-afd-party-topping-opinion-poll/

https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/surge-of-the-right-in-europe-reasons-latest-polls/

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/afd-tops-poll-germanys-most-popular-political-party

Two countries with elections this Fall are also showing the populist nationalist anti-immigration right in the lead. In the Czech Republic, it is the ANO (Action of Dissatisfied Citizens) Party led by former prime minister Andrej Babis, which holds a double digit lead over the governing traditional conservative Divic Democrats, and in the Netherlands it is the Party for Freedom of Geert Wilders. Also in Austria, the populist nationalist anti-immigration Freedom Party holds a wide lead over traditional parties of the right and left.
Business has a unique ability to transcend boundaries.

Pictured at the launch of the North-South Business Cooperation Awards at Monaghan Peace Campus were (L-R): Ian Jeffers, Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland, Tracy Ghori, Co-ordinator at the Stelios Foundation, Daniel Mulhall, Former Irish Ambassador to the US, UK, Germany and Malaysia and William Haire, Advisor to the Stelios Foundation.

Sponsored by Stelios Foundation

The inaugural North-South Business Co-operation Awards Ireland - launched by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, creator and owner of the easy family of brands including easyJet.com, easyHotel.com and many others (see www.easy.com and www.easyHistory.info), and the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation (see stelios.foundation and stelios.ie) - are more than a symbolic recognition.

They embody a commitment to building a better, more connected future on the island of Ireland. Through this initiative, the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation is providing a platform for businesses to grow, hire employees and contribute meaningfully to the all-island economy.

According to Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland, the Awards offer practical support for businesses with cross-border ambitions to take their operations to the next stage of growth. With a total prize fund of 500,000, the Awards are designed to celebrate and support entrepreneurs who are building commercial bridges between North and South, helping to fuel job creation and deepen economic integration across communities.

These Awards are about more than recognition - they offer tangible support to help businesses grow, scale and deepen their cross-border collaborations, Jeffers explains. Whether its investing in infrastructure, expanding headcount or reaching new markets, this support can make a real difference.

The Awards align with Co-operation Irelands mission of promoting peace, prosperity, and shared understanding through practical collaboration.

Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland

Business has a unique ability to transcend boundaries. Entrepreneurs are solutions-focused by nature, and when people work together on shared goals like building a successful company, trust grows organically. Thats why these Awards align so closely with our mission at Co-operation Ireland, he says.

The Awards take inspiration from similar business awards run by the Stelios Foundation in Cyprus, the birthplace of Sir Stelios parents, for the last 16 years. The bi-communal awards in Cyprus reward Greek Cypriot entrepreneurs and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs who are engaged in joint business on the island. The success of this model in Cyprus has demonstrated the power of entrepreneurship in bridging divides and now forms the blueprint for this all-island initiative in Ireland.

The islands prosperity depends on connectivity and collaboration, and these awards support that vision. They highlight real businesses doing real work and succeeding because of cooperation. North-South trade has grown significantly - from 2 billion in 1999 to 15 billion today - yet there remains untapped potential, particularly for SMEs, which account for over 80pc of cross-border trade. These awards seek to harness that potential by supporting businesses already working across the island.

The prize fund of 500,000 is significant. For businesses that are already demonstrating cross-border success, that next stage of scaling requires investment, Jeffers explains. This initiative is about giving those businesses the means to grow further and faster.

The prizes will be awarded as follows: the overall Gold-winning team will receive 150,000; two Silver-winning teams will receive 100,000 each; and six Bronze-winning teams will receive 25,000 each. The prizes can be paid in Sterling or Euro.

Moreover, these awards are not about politics - they are about economic partnerships. They celebrate business success stories that happen to cross a geographic line. This aligns with Co-operation Irelands wider ambition to build a shared and cohesive society through practical cooperation.

Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Creator and Owner of the easy family of brands, and Founder and President at the Stelios Foundation.

The Stelios Foundation has a proven 20-year track record of philanthropy across Europe, with Ireland now a key focus. Its work spans both high-impact charities and grassroots initiatives, with a consistent emphasis on supporting entrepreneurship, education, disability rights, food security, and cross-community peace.

This isnt just a PR exercise. The Stelios Foundation has consistently provided tangible support in areas where it can make a difference. These awards build on that commitment and bring it to Ireland in a way that aligns with both business needs and social cohesion, Jeffers says.

The North-South Business Co-operation Awards also reflect the broader history of connection between the Stelios brand and the island of Ireland.

Just as easyJet brought people together across Europe, these Awards bring together businesses across the island of Ireland, empowering them to grow, hire and contribute to a stronger all-island economy.

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, 30th October 2025, at Castle Leslie Estate in County Monaghan, a symbolic location close to the border, chosen to honour the spirit of cross-community partnership. Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou will personally present the awards and meet the finalists.

Looking ahead, Jeffers hopes these Awards will inspire further cooperation: These awards are not just about businesses - theyre about people. They help entrepreneurs create jobs, build partnerships, and strengthen the social and economic links that connect communities across the island.

Applications are now open until Tuesday, 16th September 2025, with businesses that meet the criteria encouraged to apply. Full details and entry forms are available at www.stelios.ie and www.stelios.foundation.
It was hard to escape the conclusion that Chancellor Rachel Reeves was going through the motions on a visit to Belfast on Tuesday following trips last week to Scotland and Wales.

The UK nations have been getting a visit from a Chancellor whose job is already difficult, whose popularity is already low  but for whom things are likely to get much worse when she delivers the autumn Budget in a few months.
Returning to Its Roots, Reimagining the Future of Work, Powering Virginia's Economic Growth

HAMPTON, Va., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With the nation's unemployment rate at 4.2 percent and employers facing a critical shortage of skilled workers, Hampton University has launched a bold new initiative to close the gap: the Workforce Development Enterprise, a $2.2 million investment in vocational training, industry-aligned certification, and entrepreneurial development.

This forward-looking program is grounded in Hampton's founding legacy  preparing students for lives of purpose through practical training  while designed to meet the demands of today's job market and tomorrow's economy.

This initiative was made possible by a $2 million federal grant secured by Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (VA-03), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday August 6, university leaders and elected officials gathered to unveil three workforce centers:

The Community Health and Vocational Center (Butler Farm Road)

The Center for Culinary Arts and Business Networking ( Downtown Hampton )

) The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship ( Downtown Hampton )th Floor

Together, these centers form a dynamic network offering hands-on training in fields such as welding, culinary arts, healthcare, small business development, and innovation-driven entrepreneurship, creating new pathways to employment in trades that are essential to the national economy.

"For more than 150 years, Hampton University has been a cornerstone of opportunity and excellence in this region. This investment ensures Hampton remains a beacon of academic achievement and a force in preparing the American workforce for the jobs of today and tomorrow," said Congressman Bobby Scott.

Meeting the Moment

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, demand for skilled workersfrom welders and machinists to health aides and culinary professionalscontinues to outpace supply. The National Center for Education Statistics also reports a sharp rise in vocational education enrollment, as Americans seek faster, more flexible pathways to employment.

Hampton University's Workforce Development Enterprise answers that call.

"This program isn't just for students enrolled at Hampton," said President Williams. "It's for the working parent looking to upskill. It's for the veteran transitioning to civilian life. It's for the ambitious young person who may not be readyor ableto take a traditional college path. Hampton is meeting them where they are and helping them rise."

Programs offered at the new centers are tailored for regional economic needs and national labor trendsoffering stackable credentials and certifications in high-demand fields. Instruction is immersive, experiential, and deeply rooted in real-world application.

"I'm not just teaching people to weld in a boothI'm preparing them for the conditions they'll face on the job," said leading welding instructor Moi Cordell. "Heat, cold, tight angles, heavy materials. This program is about making people truly job-ready."

A Statewide Catalyst for Growth

As industries across the country face a shortage of skilled tradespeople, the program serves as a blueprint for how universities can meet labor demands while remaining deeply rooted in community service.

Local leaders see Hampton's enterprise as a game-changer, not only for the City of Hampton but for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"This workforce enterprise will support the entire Commonwealth of Virginia," said City of Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray. "It's good for the entire state. It connects our community with industries that are hiring now, and it plants seeds for long-term growth."

"This is the most beautiful workforce development site in the Commonwealth," added Vice Mayor Steve Brown. "Its picturesque Downtown Hampton location is ideal for our growing workforce. These spaces are a stunning tribute to all that Hampton has to offer."

Inside Hampton University's Workforce Development Enterprises, students will get more than hands-on training, they get a taste of the lives they're building. In the welding lab, they'll harness fire and metal, shaping the backbone of industries that power the nation. Every spark is a step toward mastery, every weld a mark of confidence forged under real-world conditions.

The behavioral health programs empower aspiring nurse's aides and home health aides no deliver care with skill and dignity, stepping into a profession where their hands will bring healing and their presence will offer peace. And in the culinary kitchen, students will feel the exciting pulse of a bustling restaurant in a real working kitchen, where timing, creativity, and teamwork come together on every plate.

"We're not simply cutting a ribbon," said Dr. Glenda Evans, Executive Director of Hampton University Workforce Development Enterprise and Associate Professor. "We're launching careers, building futures, and fulfilling Hampton's legacy as a place of purpose driven education."

Whether they dream of launching a business, serving their community, or joining the skilled trades, Hampton is giving a real shot at what's possible.

The Hampton University Workforce Development Enterprise is a reinvestment in America's workforce at a time when the country needs it most. It's both a return and a revolutionrestoring the dignity of skilled labor while opening doors for a new generation of builders, caretakers, makers, and innovators.

"We've long said that Hampton is a cradle of excellence. With this initiative, we're proving that excellence isn't limited to boardrooms or classroomsit's in the trades, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and in community," said Mayor Gray.

Hampton University: A National Leader in Research, Innovation, and Opportunity

Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution, nationally acclaimed for its pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the region and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton stands as a powerful engine of innovation, workforce development, and inclusive economic growth.

Consistently recognized for academic excellence and transformative outcomes, Hampton was recently named one of the "Best Colleges in America" by Money Magazine and honored as the "Best Private College" by Coastal Virginia Magazine.

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a proud, close-knit community of scholars, representing 44 states and 32 territories. With a legacy rooted in empowerment and education, the university is committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenshippreparing students to lead with purpose and integrity in an ever-changing world. Learn more at: www.hamptonu.edu

SOURCE Hampton University
Fashion accessories chain Claires, which has 11 stores in Northern Ireland, is set to appoint administrators for its UK and Ireland business, putting around 2,150 jobs at risk.

The US parent firm for the high street retailer said it has filed a formal notice to administrators from advisory firm Interpath.

The business has stores in shopping centres all around Northern Ireland, including Belfasts Victoria Square, Bow Street Mall in Lisburn and Erneside Shopping Centre in Enniskillen.

The move will raise fears over the future of its 306 stores, with 278 of these in the UK and 28 Ireland. Its estimated around seven people work in each store.

Administrators are set to seek a potential rescue deal for the chain, which has seen sales tumble in the face of recent weak consumer demand.

Claires UK stores will remain open as usual and store staff will stay in their positions once administrators are appointed, the company said.

Will Wright, UK chief executive at Interpath, said: Claires has long been a popular brand across the UK, known not only for its trend-led accessories but also as the go-to destination for ear piercing.

Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern for as long as we can, while we assess options for the company.

This includes exploring the possibility of a sale which would secure a future for this well-loved brand.

It comes after the US-based Claires group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in a court in Delaware last week.

Fashion accessories chain Claires has filed for bankruptcy (Mike Egerton/PA)

It is the second time the group has declared bankruptcy, after first filing for the process in 2018.

Chris Cramer, chief executive of Claires, said: This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claires across all markets.

In the UK, taking this step will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward. We are deeply grateful to our employees, partners and our customers during this challenging period.

Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Claires attraction has waned, with its high street stores failing to pull in the business they used to.

Claires has filed a notice to appoint administrators (Kirsty OConnor/PA)

Belfast History Explained: Who was Mary Ann McCracken?

While they may still be a beacon for younger girls, families arent heading out on so many shopping trips, with footfall in retail centres falling.

The chain is now faced with stiff competition from TikTok and Insta shops, and by cheap accessories sold by fast fashion giants like Shein and Temu.
The engineering firm has expanded its team and is eyeing new markets

From left, Oonagh Murtagh from Danske Bank, Lorraine Bruce and Reuben Bruce of Bruce Engineering and Jayne Beacom, Danske Bank

A family-owned engineering firm in Co Tyrone has set its sights on new overseas markets after securing 0.8m in bank support.

Third-generation business Bruce Engineering in Cookstown also bought new machinery after securing the funding from Danske Bank.

Its set to being exporting to new markets in Europe, including Scandinavia, nearly 70 years after it was founded by James Bruce in 1958.

Over that time, it has remained family-owned, and is now managed by Reuben and Lorraine Bruce.

And the purchase of new machinery has enabled it to carry out large-scale plant manufacture and installations in the UK.

Its also refurbished its offices in Cookstown, creating an environment allowing for bigger contracts to be fulfilled.

Bruce Engineering has also expanded its team, adding two new staff including a design engineer so that it now employs 30 people.

Finance director Lorraine Bruce said: The funding has allowed us to grow our turnover, refurbish our offices and expand our presence across Europe.

"We have also been able to continue to strengthen Bruce Engineerings presence in our home market of the UK and Ireland, where long-standing relationships remain a cornerstone of our ongoing success.

The support we have received since moving to Danske Bank in 2023 has been invaluable to the business. We have had consistent support and engagement throughout our banking relationship and all the team are responsive, professional and helpful.

Jayne Beacom, senior business manager at Danske Bank, added: Were pleased to be supporting Bruce Engineering grow and expand as a business, expanding into new geographies whilst strengthening its presence in the UK and Ireland.

"Its an exciting time for the business and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to grow.
Former The Apprentice contestant Tom Skinner has said his barbecue and drinks with US vice president JD Vance was a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The 34-year-old businessman, who has become a social media star on X following his time on the BBC business show, met up with US president Donald Trumps number two Mr Vance and his friends and family, after the duo had previously chatted on the social media platform.
How a log chalet home led to a 10-year planning row between three siblings

Edwina Brady was granted retention, but the case has now been appealed to An Coimisiun Pleanala by her brothers

Siblings locked in planning dispute over log cabin at south Dublin home.

Amy Molloy Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 16:04

A 73-year-old woman who was granted retention for her log chalet home is locked in a planning dispute after her two brothers objected to the decision.
Brian Banks and Helen Doogan from trhe Think 1265 campaign aiming to address workload issues in the teaching profession.

A teacher-led campaign group has launched a Wee Little Book of Teacher Workload to help teachers and school leaders understand how existing guidelines should be implemented.

The pocket-sized manual by think1265 explains how workload agreements between management and staff should work in the day-to-day life of teachers in Northern Ireland.

Helen Doogan, co-founder of the campaign, said a critical year lies ahead when it comes to addressing issues.

Teachers workload in Northern Ireland is meant to be strictly managed as a result of existing workload agreements, but in many schools teachers are still bringing work home on a regular basis, she said.

The agreements are great in principle, particularly the one from April last year, but in many schools theyre not getting off the page and into the classroom.

We believe the first step to fixing this is to make sure that everybody knows what the agreed rules are.

Since April 2024, we have written over 50,000 words about every aspect of teacher workload on our website, but we continually receive the same queries from teachers all over the country wondering what should be happening about X, Y or Z in their workplace.

Then, on the first weekend of July I woke up to a message from Brian saying Lets write a book. And here we are, just five weeks later.

The project was funded by a crowdfunding campaign which raised over 300% of its initial target in just three weeks, and received so many orders that organisers had to commission a second print run.

Weve been blown away by the response to this project, said Brian Banks, co-founder of think1265.

Particularly since all weve really done is put together the established rules about managing teachers workload in a different format.

These rules are already available from many different sources, from DE and EAs websites to the advice that the teaching trade unions produce. The only new thing, really, is putting them in a small, easy to use, guidebook.

The 2025-26 academic year will be a critical one for teachers workload, following the Education Ministers decision to set up an Independent Review of Workload, due to report in November 2025.

Brian Banks and Helen Doogan from trhe Think 1265 campaign aiming to address workload issues in the teaching profession.

Belfast History Explained: Who was Sheila the Elephant?

SDLP Opposition education spokesperson Cara Hunter MLA is among those who have welcomed the new publication.

Im delighted to support this important new book, which will help guide schools and teachers in managing workload, she said.

It will be an invaluable resource, especially at a time of growing pressure and expectations on teaching staff.

I want to pay tribute to Helen, Brian and all the campaigners involved in bringing this forward. Everyone has the right to a healthy work-life balance and ensuring that teachers know their rights is a critical step in protecting their wellbeing and performance.

We entrust our teachers with our most precious resource  our young people  and we must ensure they feel valued, supported, and empowered in their workplaces.
A former school principal who has died leaves a legacy etched in the hearts and minds of many, her former school has said.

Dr Elma Lutton, who served at Cambridge House Grammar School for almost 50 years until her retirement in 2020, passed away on Tuesday.

She had been the longest serving principal of the Ballymena school  her overall involvement with the school spanned 46 years.

Mrs Lutton began teaching in Cambridge House in 1974.

Initially, she taught English, both Language and Literature; Latin and Drama at Cambridge House Grammar School for Girls, becoming Head of Drama in September that year.

In 2001 she was appointed vice-principal of the newly formed Cambridge House Grammar School, the amalgamation of the girls and boys schools.

Mrs Lutton was then appointed as the principal in 2012 and led the school to be one of the top-performing grammars in Northern Ireland.

She lived in Kells with her husband Jim. The couple had two daughters, Christina and Rebecca.

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph in 2014, she said: Ive always been a teacher. My best job, though, is being principal.

"Her leadership weathered challenges, embraced change and always stayed rooted in the core beliefs that define our school"

In a statement the school said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Elma Lutton, the longest serving former principal of Cambridge House Grammar School, who left an indelible mark on our community.

"Elma dedicated over four decades to our school and her legacy is etched in the hearts and minds of every pupil, teacher and parent or guardian who had the privilege of knowing her.

"Under her stewardship, the school flourished academically and became a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment, demonstrating her passion, purpose and unwavering belief in the potential of every child and member of staff. She championed the holistic development of pupils and was never too busy to offer a kind word, a wise piece of advice or a helping hand," the school continued.

"Her leadership weathered challenges, embraced change and always stayed rooted in the core beliefs that define our school. She believed in tradition, but also in progress and integrity. Whilst holding high standards, she led with compassion and never lost sight of what mattered most  the children.

Cambridge House Grammar in Ballymena

"As we, her school family, reflect on the years of dedicated service, we do so with immense pride and affection. Her influence will be felt for generations, not just in the achievements of our school, but in the countless lives she touched and inspired. Her spirit remains deeply woven into the fabric of our school community.

"Elma, thank you for your vision, your courage, your wisdom and above all, your unwavering devotion; we will always be better for having walked the journey with you.

A death notice said Mrs Lutton passed away peacefully at hospital.

Dr Elma Lutton, fortmer principal at Cambridge House Grammar School.

Belfast History Explained: Who was Mary Ann McCracken?

A service of celebration for her life will be held next Monday, August 18, at 11am in Gracehill Moravian Church followed by a private cremation.

It added: Elma will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her entire family circle. God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts.
An MLA has urged residents to be vigilant after a child was left shaken when an armed suspect broke into a flat during one of two aggravated burglaries in west Belfast.

The incident happened in the Mount Eagles Avenue area of the city during the early hours of Wednesday morning.

It was reported shortly after 5.50am that a man armed with two knives gained entry into a flat through a window.

He took two mobile devices.

Police said a male and a child were in the home at the time and were left shaken from the incident. Sinn Fein MLA Danny Baker said the suspect needs to be identified and held accountable.

He added: Anyone who may have seen suspicious activity or have cameras that picked anything up, please come forward.

With the hot weather it is tempting to leave windows and doors unlocked, but please dont.

There have been a number of attempted break ins over the weekend throughout the community and I would urge everyone to be vigilant.

PSNI Detective Sergeant Kitchen: "The suspect was described as approximately 5' 7" in height and of medium build, with black hair and wearing a black jacket and grey tracksuit bottoms.

"Thankfully, both the male occupant, and a child who was also in the property at the time, were physically uninjured, although they were left shaken.

"While in attendance, officers were made aware of a second burglary at a nearby property.

It is believed that entry was gained through an open window and a mobile phone and a set of keys have been reported as stolen.

Police are appealing for information (Liam McBurney/PA)

Co Down community shaken and upset after priest attack and death of man

The occupant, who was in the property at the time, was uninjured. Enquiries are ongoing, and at this time, we are treating both incidents as linked.

Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton added: I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything, or who may have dashcam, CCTV or other video footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference 227 of 13/8/25."
Watch: Emergency services at the scene of a two vehicle crash in Newtownards

A motorcyclist is in critical condition following a serious two-vehicle crash in Co Down.

Police and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service responded to a report of a collision on Church Street in Newtownards involving a car and a motorcycle at around 10.25pm last night.

The male motorcyclist was taken to hospital for treatment for injuries, and is described as being in a critical condition at this time, Sergeant Pye said.

Enquiries are ongoing, and police would appeal to anyone who has any mobile phone or dash cam footage, or any information which may assist, to get in touch via 101, quoting reference number 1914 of 12/08/25.

One ambulance was despatched to the scene.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 22:23 on Tuesday 12th August, following reports of an RTC in the Church Street area, Newtownards, said an NIAS spokesperson.

NIAS dispatched one emergency ambulance to the scene.

Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, one person was taken to Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast by Ambulance.

Church Street was closed earlier today and police were advising road users to avoid the area. However, the road has now reopened to traffic.
A number of cannabis cultivations were dismantled

Some of the plants discovered in Tandragee

Five men have been arrested after police seized drugs valued at approximately 500,000 in a series of raids on Wednesday.

The searches, carried out with the support of the PSNIs Tactical Support Group (TSG) officers, took place at five different addresses across NI.

Five males aged 33, 34, 38, 41 and 43 were detained on suspicion of a variety of offences including cultivation of cannabis.

The haul in Templepatrick

Detective Inspector Kelly, from the Police Services Organised Crime Branch, said: Today as a result of ongoing enquiries into an organised criminal gangs activities and with the assistance of a number of departments, we had a co-ordinated day of action.

"Vulnerable people caught up in drug misuse suffer  DI Kelly (PSNI)

"We have located and dismantled four cannabis cultivations within properties in Templepatrick, Coleraine, Tandragee and Lurgan. Each location was expertly set up containing rooms full of plants at various stages of growth.

Read more Community anger forces removal of sickening bonfire sign targeting drowned teen but placard mocking Lee Rigby appears

"Clearly there was a conveyor belt supply of drugs being produced, with regular harvests across the properties, which would likely be sold on to other criminal gangs. The drugs recovered have a potential street value of approximately 500,000.

A cultivation in Coleraine

"A fifth property in Newry was searched and the occupant located and arrested by Roads Policing officers in Portadown this morning. Four vehicles have also been seized by detectives.

"Organised crime gangs fund their criminality and lifestyle at the expense of others. Damage is caused to properties. Vulnerable people caught up in drug misuse suffer and it creates a pressure on families and the health service.

"Im grateful to local people and communities for their continued support, and Im keen to reiterate and appeal for anyone with information on this incident or drug supply in general to contact us on 101.

Some of the plants discovered in Tandragee

Belfast History Explained: Who was Mary Ann McCracken?

"A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

"Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
English actress Katherine Kelly, best known for her role as Becky McDonald in Coronation Street, has opened up about filming in Belfast during a weather warning.

Kellys new thriller, In Flight, was filmed in Northern Ireland, despite being set in multiple locations across the globe.

Its a really ambitious project, we filmed it in Belfast but its set in London and its got to look like anywhere in the world, she told on ITVs This Morning.

But Kelly said the cast and crew came into difficulty while trying to film a scene which was set in Bangkok.

Not only did we do it in Belfast in the winter but there was an amber weather warning on the day, she said.

Kelly said she initially feared they would be forced to postpone filming.

I was like How are we going to make this Belfast street look like Bangkok? and also How are we going to do it today because its not going to stop raining today? she said.

Despite the bad weather the team managed to finish the scene.

Actually we shot it that night because it needs to look all moody and we had about 35 supporting artists, she continued.

And we all had summer clothes on, flip flops, freezing in the rain, I mean we were literally like, dragging our feet through puddles.

I honestly thought we were gonna have to reshoot that but it looks incredible. You gotta keep watching because its not until the end but it looks absolutely brilliant.

Kelly praised the show's Belfast born director, Chris Baugh and producer, Brendan Mullin for bringing the show to life.

Chris and Brendan [are] our producer/director team, they are born and bred Belfast, their creativity is second to none and they know every nook and cranny of Belfast, she said.

Jo Conran (Katherine Kelly) in 'In Flight'. Photo: Channel 4

Belfast History Explained: Who was Sheila the Elephant?

In Flight follows the story of a flight attendant who is blackmailed into smuggling drugs after her son is arrested.

Filming took place in Belfast in November 2024, with exterior shots and pub scenes being filmed at Clenaghan's just outside of Moira, Co Down.

The Channel 4 series is available to watch on All4 now.
Retina Specialty CRO Climbs Nearly 300 Spots to No. 434, Reinforcing Its Leadership

as the Premier Partner for Retina Companies

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- InFocus Clinical Research today announced it has been ranked No. 434 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list, a significant leap from its position at No. 724 in 2024. The Inc. 5000 recognizes the fastest-growing privately held companies in the United States.

In addition to its national ranking, InFocus earned top recognition in several categories:

No. 11 in the Nashville metropolitan area





metropolitan area No. 13 in the state of Tennessee





No. 45 in the Healthcare & Medical category nationwide

"This recognition reflects not only rapid growth but our unwavering commitment to quality partnerships and advancing retina research," said Brad Doerschuk, CEO of InFocus. "We've built a model that is therapeutically focused, site-aligned, and intentionally different  and it's making a measurable impact."

InFocus is the only global CRO purpose-built for retina. Founded by retina stakeholders, the company leverages deep therapeutic expertise, long-standing relationships with top-performing sites, and its proprietary Real-Time Intelligence (RTI) database  encompassing more than 400 global retina clinics  to deliver smarter site selection, stronger enrollment, and agile trial execution.

"We're proud of the progress we've made, but we're even more energized by what's ahead," Doerschuk added. "As new therapies emerge and trial complexity increases, we're doubling down on our mission to be the most trusted, responsive, and retina-focused CRO in the world."

The full Inc. 5000 list is available at www.inc.com/inc5000.

About InFocus Clinical Research

InFocus Clinical Research is a global, full-service contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on retina diseases. Founded in 2015 by retina experts, the company combines therapeutic depth, operational agility, and a specialized site network to deliver high-performing clinical trials. With dedicated scientific leadership, InFocus partners with sponsors to accelerate innovation in retinal disease.

SOURCE InFocus Clinical Research
Priest who was struck on the head with a bottle is getting stronger while recovering in hospital

Bishop Alan McGuckian leads a Mass at St Colmcille's Church in Downpatrick, Co Down, following the sudden death of Stephen Brannigan and an attack on priest Father John Murray in the town on Sunday (PA)

Bishop Alan McGuckian thanks PSNI Superintendent Norman Haslett and Sergeant Suzanne Cochrane for attending a Mass at St Colmcille's Church in Downpatrick, Co Down, following the sudden death of Stephen Brannigan and an attack on priest Father John Murray

Stephen Brannigan (left) and Fr John Murray (right) were attacked in Downpatrick on Sunday

A man is due to appear in Newtownards Magistrates' Court on Wednesday charged with murder and attempted murder.

Detectives investigating the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the serious assault of a priest in Downpatrick on Sunday have charged a man to court.

The man, aged 30, has been charged with murder and attempted murder, a PSNI spokesman said.

Meanwhile, Father John Murray, who was struck on the head with a bottle while preparing for Mass on Sunday, is getting stronger while recovering in hospital.

The priest sustained head injuries in the attack which happened after he was approached in St Patricks Church by a man in a distressed state.

It took place on the same day police discovered the body of Stephen Brannigan (56) in a house on Marian Park, prompting a murder probe.

Stephen Brannigan (Pacemaker)

A special church service on Tuesday morning saw hundreds of shocked parishioners gather to pray for the murder victims family and the wounded cleric.

Bishop of Down and Connor Alan McGuckian, told the congregation that Fr Murrays condition is continuing to improve and that he is surrounded by loved ones.

What we have noticed was, it went from being serious, to stable, and now to comfortable and I have heard from the chaplains in the hospital that he is getting stronger, very tired but getting stronger, he said.

His family is with him a lot. I was with him on Sunday night.

I wouldve been with him last night except I was told he was tired and to give him a rest, but his family and the clergy are rallying round him.

Fr John Murray (Pacemaker)

The bishop said while there is much joy associated with Fr Murrays improving health, the community is still in a state of grief after Mr Brannigans death.

People are shaken and scared, the world is revealed as a very uncertain place when things like that happen, he said.

But I think we must remember the willingness of people to come together and support each other and that is what will bring Downpatrick through this.

Stephen Brannigan (left) and Fr John Murray (right) were attacked in Downpatrick on Sunday

Police at the scene of Downpatrick murder

Police have said they are investigating a link between the assault and the murder of Mr Brannigan.

The cleric, who was due to retire on Thursday, was preparing to celebrate his last Mass as parish priest.

Bishop McGuckian said he understands many residents may feel uneasy following both incidents, but urged the community to support each other through what is a difficult time.

As places become more urban, and Downpatrick is growing to be a bigger town, we see an increase in violence and people not knowing their neighbours just as they did before, he added.

But I think building up good neighbourhoods where people know each other and look out for each other is the only way we can transcend that problem.

Bishop Alan McGuckian leads a Mass at St Colmcille's Church in Downpatrick, Co Down, following the sudden death of Stephen Brannigan and an attack on priest Father John Murray in the town on Sunday (PA)

Bishop McGuckian said he was reassured that so many people attended the service on Tuesday morning.

This is a community where young and old come together, he continued.

We saw them at Mass coming together to pray together.

I think that shows, this is a community that has the resources to overcome this together.

Members of the Brannigan family were among those who took part in the service, alongside PSNI representatives and local politicians.

Bishop Alan McGuckian thanks PSNI Superintendent Norman Haslett and Sergeant Suzanne Cochrane for attending a Mass at St Colmcille's Church in Downpatrick, Co Down, following the sudden death of Stephen Brannigan and an attack on priest Father John Murray

Former SDLP leader Margaret Ritchie said many people wanted to stand in solidarity with both victims.

First of all I want to offer my sympathy and my condolences to the Brannigan family on the sad death and passing of Stephen in such tragic circumstances, she added.

Of course I know Fr John, he has been parish priest here for the last 11 years and he provided excellent pastoral stewardship in the very big Catholic parish of Downpatrick.

He has been very strong on ecumenical relations, particularly here with the Church of Ireland cathedral in Downpatrick.

Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said: Our thoughts remain with Mr Brannigans family and loved ones at this extremely distressing time.

A murder investigation is underway, and I would reiterate our appeal for anyone with information to please come forward and speak to our detectives on 101.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There was traffic chaos in the city a fortnight ago when the bridge closed

The public have been asked to plan ahead to reduce disruption with the M3 bridge set for a second closure in as many weeks to allow for phase two of a 400k maintenance scheme.

The closure will be in force on the westbound carriageway of the bridge from 9pm on Friday August 15 until 6am on Monday August 18.

As a result, the M3 itself will be closed from Bridge End to M2 Foreshore and there will be no access to the bridge from the A2 Sydenham Bypass. Traffic will be required to leave at Bridge End Flyover.

No access to the M3 will be available from Middlepath Street on-slip during this period, with diversions in place.

A similar closure at the start of the month caused traffic chaos across the entire weekend in Belfast, with long queues forming at pinch points across the city.

One video posted online appeared to show an ambulance with flashing lights stuck behind a large queue of traffic on North Queen Street on Sunday.

The disruption prompted reaction from many councillors and MLAs, with North Belfast MLA Phillip Brett urging Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to get a grip on the situation.

"Belfast cannot grind to a halt every time essential maintenance is carried out, he said.

"This wasnt an unforeseen incident, it was a planned operation. When a closure of this scale is scheduled, proper planning isnt optional, its essential.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has said the closure is required in order to replace a further four bearings under the bridge which are showing signs of corrosion and movement.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins

The work will involve the bridge being jacked up and time is required for concrete plinths to strengthen before traffic can be allowed to travel over it again.

"The is essential safety work which was planned over the summer period when traffic is generally lighter, however inevitably there will be delays and disruption, said a spokesperson.

"Delaying the work now could result in further structural damage and longer closures at a later date. The Department would ask road users to plan ahead for their journey and seek an alternative route away from the city where possible.

Similar closures a fortnight ago caused traffic chaos in the city

Watch: Emergency services at the scene of a two vehicle crash in Newtownards

If you are travelling to Belfast International Airport or north or west please ask yourself do you need to drive across Belfast or can you take another route such as via the A55 outer Ring.

"If you are travelling into the city to enjoy some shopping or leisure, or if you are attending an event at Custom House Square or Belfast Mela, remember to factor the bridge closure into your travel plans.

"Allow extra time, look at the alternative routes or consider using public transport if you can. You can plan your public transport journey at www.translink.co.uk/journeyplanner or visit www.translink.co.uk.

"The Department would like to thank the travelling public for their patience and cooperation while these important bridge safety works are completed. For traffic information about this and other improvement schemes visit: www.trafficwatchni.com.
A formal appeal over the leniency of the sentences of those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has been lodged, the Tanaiste has said.

Pte Rooney, 24, from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon was ambushed and fired upon on December 14, 2022.

The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in a stronghold of Hezbollah.

Pte Rooney was from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces.

The main person convicted for his killing is still at large and the Irish Government has described some of the sentences imposed on others over the matter as unduly lenient.

On Tuesday, Tanaiste Simon Harris said prosecutors in Lebanon have formally lodged an appeal against the sentences handed down to those who were indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney and the attacks on Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan and Trooper Nathan Bryan in the same incident.

Mr Harris wrote to the Lebanese Government following last months trial to express the disappointment of the Irish Government and, in particular, of the Rooney family, at the leniency of the sentences handed down.

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He met Pte Rooneys family last week after his mother criticised Mr Harriss engagement with them over the matter.

Mr Harris, who is also Defence and Foreign Affairs Minister, had committed to holding urgent talks with the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers in order to press for an appeal.

Those talks took place on Tuesday.

Mr Harris said he then spoke to Pte Rooneys mother, Natasha McCloskey, and informed her that the Lebanese Government has appointed a new military chief prosecutor to take over the case.

He also said an appeal against the sentences has this afternoon been formally lodged with the military Cassation Court, while the Lebanese authorities have committed to taking urgent steps to ensure the individual convicted of the murder of Private Rooney is taken into custody.

Mr Harris said: I very much welcome the confirmation today from the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers that an appeal has been formally lodged against the sentences handed down in the case of the death of Private Sean Rooney and the injuries of his colleagues.

He added: In my calls with my Lebanese counterparts, I made it clear that the sentences handed down in this case are simply not acceptable and are very disappointing.

They have caused great upset and insult to the Rooney family and everything must be done to ensure justice is served for Sean and his colleagues who were injured.
A police forensic tent at the scene in Long Lane, Southwark, south London, where the McMillans died (PA)

A man accused of killing a father and son at a business premises in south-east London has been remanded in custody.

Terry McMillan, 58, and Brendan McMillan, 27, of Chislehurst, Bromley, died after the alleged incident at a commercial property in Long Lane, Bermondsey, on July 28.

Hassan Cevik, 31, appeared at the Old Bailey via videolink on Wednesday charged with two counts of murder.

Brendan McMillan died alongside his father Terry (Old Colfeian Rugby Club/PA)

Cevik, of Mount Pleasant Lane in Hackney, east London, is also charged with grievous bodily harm relating to a 47-year-old man and possession of an offensive weapon.

The Metropolitan Police were called to the commercial property in the Southwark district on July 28 after reports of multiple stabbings.

Two other men were treated for stab wounds by emergency services and taken to hospital.

Cevik was arrested and also taken to hospital.

The defendant, who currently uses a wheelchair, was ordered to next appear for a preliminary hearing at the Old Bailey on September 3.
MPs are calling on the Government to fund free bus travel for people aged under 22 in England (Alamy/PA)

MPs are calling on the Government to fund free bus travel for people aged under 22 in England.

The Transport Select Committee, which made the recommendation, said it would improve young peoples access to work and skills opportunities and help embed long-term public transport use.

Free bus travel is offered to under-22s in Scotland.

People aged 16-21 in Wales are entitled to a one-third discount on fares, and from next month will be able to travel for 1 per journey.

Parts of England offer discounted or free bus travel for young people, such as London for 16 and 17-year-olds.

People are entitled to free bus travel in England when they reach the state pension age, which is currently 66 but will rise from next year.

Bus fares in England for all passengers are capped at 3 until March 2027.

In a report on buses, the select committee said: Englands patchwork of local youth concessions contrasts with national schemes in Scotland and Wales.

A coherent national approach to ensure fair access across England is essential if the Government is serious about driving economic growth, which depends on removing barriers to education, training, and employment for the next generation.

The report described public transport as a major barrier to employment for young people, especially in places with limited services.

It added: In some areas, transport is restricting opportunity rather than enabling it.

The committee urged the Government to reform the way local bus services are funded, with longer-term settlements.

It also called for a national ambition for a minimum level on public transport connectivity.

Department for Transport (DfT) figures show the number of bus journeys taken in England outside London fell by 22% from 4.6 billion in 2009 to 3.6 billion in 2024.

Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, who chairs the committee, said: Those most affected by unreliable or even non-existent buses include the young, who need them to get to school, college, university and their first jobs.

Denying young people these experiences denies them their life chances.

We call for a universal, free bus pass for all under-22s to equalise opportunity.

While the bus fare caps have been beneficial, the Government has yet to spell out a coherent strategy of what they aim to achieve, and whether more targeted options could produce better outcomes.

While the Governments Bus Services Bill contains positive ideas, the Transport Committees report says ministers should go further to get bums back on seats.

The Bill, which is going through Parliament, will lead to an overhaul of buses, such as by giving all local transport authorities new powers to run their own services.

It will also reduce some of the red tape involved in bus franchising, including reducing the minimum period between local areas taking control of services and being allowed to start operations.

A DfT spokesperson said: After decades of decline, were providing a record 1 billion in multi-year funding to improve the reliability and frequency of bus services across the country.

Our landmark Bus Services Bill will protect routes and prevent services from being scrapped, bringing buses back into local control, and will put passengers at the heart of services.

We have also stepped in to prevent a fare hike for passengers by extending the 3 fare cap until March 2027.
A UK-based charity in a desperate race to save people from landmines has won a global humanitarian prize for its work.

The Mines Advisory Group (MAG) has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Conrad N Hilton Humanitarian Prize, an annual award which honours a non-profit organisation leading efforts to alleviate human suffering.

The group, set up in 1989 in Cockermouth, Cumbria, and now based in Manchester, has worked in more than 70 countries across the world to clear and raise awareness of landmines, as well as being part of international efforts to stop the use of the explosives.

Bosses say their work is more important than ever as new and ongoing conflicts have led to a spike in the number of landmine casualties.

MAG chief executive Darren Cormack said eight out of 10 people killed or injured by landmines were civilians and 40% were children.

He said: Predominantly, civilians are most at risk where landmines and unexploded ordnance litter communities.

They pose an immediate risk to life and limb in contexts where war is ongoing, so Syria, Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, and were in a desperate race really to get safety messages to those communities who are at risk, to avoid the risk and to clear the landmines and unexploded ordnance from harms way.

The group was part of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, backed by Princess Diana, which in 1997 was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its work.

Their campaign led to the Ottawa Treaty, an international convention banning landmines, but, some countries are planning to withdraw from the agreement.

Mines Advisory Group chief Darren Cormack pointed to ongoing conflicts (MAG/Dalia Khamissy/PA)

Mr Cormack said the treaty was one of the most successful instruments of international humanitarian law and the group believed it was vitally important it was maintained.

He said: We have seen that it is an effective way of ultimately protecting civilians who are at risk many, many years after conflicts have ended.

Yes, there are pressures right now that some states are certainly under and were seeing that in Europe and the Baltic states  Poland, Ukraine  who are considering withdrawing.

Our position is we would regret that and believe it is something that should be upheld.

Executive director of MAG US, Shari Bryan, said: As levels of conflict rise across the world and as several countries have expressed intent to exit the Ottawa Treaty amidst escalating conflict in eastern Europe, our work has never been more important.

The prize of three million dollars (2.2 million) will support MAGs work, which has a community-centred approach, with the majority of its 5,500 staff coming from areas affected by conflict.

Mr Cormack said: Too often were in a race to find a landmine before a child does and what this funding will enable us is to find different ways of potentially doing what we do.

Peter Laugharn, president and chief executive of the Conrad N Hilton Foundation, said: The selection of the Mines Advisory Group as this years Hilton Humanitarian Prize recipient serves as a reminder that compassion and peace should still be at the top of our global agenda.

Through its extraordinary efforts to help communities return to safety and prosperity after conflict, the Mines Advisory Group exemplifies the kind of humanitarian excellence our prize has sought to celebrate and inspire over the last three decades.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: Landmines kill indiscriminately and remain lethal long after conflicts are over, so I was privileged to see how the Mines Advisory Group are tackling this critical issue first-hand during my visit to Laos last year.

Their expert teams not only clear landmines but also run life-saving educational programmes for returning communities to reduce the risk of injury or death.

It is a source of great pride to see a UK-based organisation receive this prestigious prize, and to support their vital work in this time of conflict and geopolitical instability.

A prize ceremony will be held in New York in October.
Justin Kisimusi, a minibus taxi operator and a Liverpool Football Club fan, poses with his vehicles following their branding in Harare, Zimbabwe (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

By Associated Press Reporter

By Associated Press Reporter

Minibus taxi drivers in Zimbabwe have geared up for the start of the Premier League football season by adorning their vehicles with the colours of their teams.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United were among the clubs whose players and managers were spotted on taxis across the African nations capital Harare.

A woman walks past a minibus taxi featuring Manchester City player Phil Foden in Harare, Zimbabwe (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

A minibus taxi branded with Liverpool Football Club players drives along a street in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

A minibus taxi with the inscription of Manchester Uniteds captain Bruno Fernandes is seen on a highway in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

A woman boards a minibus taxi branded with an image of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

The Premier League season kicks off on Friday, with champions Liverpool at home to Bournemouth.

Manchester City face an away trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, while Manchester United will play Arsenal at home on Sunday.

A street vendor sits next to a minibus taxi featuring Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

Brian Chitsike, a graphic designer, installs an image of Mohamed Salah on a minibus taxi in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

Brian Gondo prepares cuts off a graphic image of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk to brand on a minibus taxi in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)

Minibus taxis branded with Chelsea and Manchester United graphics at a bus terminus in Harare (Aaron Ufumeli/AP)
Damaged buildings in the Gaza Strip, seen from southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid on Wednesday, health officials and witnesses said, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will allow Palestinians to leave during an upcoming military offensive in Gaza.

Mr Netanyahu wants to realise US President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of more than two million people through what the prime minister refers to as voluntary migration  and what critics have warned could be ethnic cleansing.

Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the Strip if they want, Mr Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Tuesday with i24, an Israeli TV station, to discuss the planned offensive in some of the territorys most populated areas including Gaza City.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference (Abir Sultan/Pool Photo via AP)

We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave.

Witnesses and staff at Nasser and Awda hospitals, which received the bodies, said people were killed on their way to aid distribution sites and while awaiting convoys entering the Gaza Strip.

Israel did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month.

Hamas and Egyptian officials met on Wednesday in Cairo, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou.

Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to talks in Cairo, the prime ministers office said.

Israel has said it will widen its military offensive against Hamas to the areas of Gaza that it does not yet control, where most of the territorys residents have sought refuge.

Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire.

Israeli soldiers use binoculars to look at damaged buildings in the Gaza Strip, from southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the October 7 2023 attack that sparked the war.

Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.

Mr Netanyahu was asked by i24 News if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal and he responded that he wanted all of the hostages back, alive and dead.

Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

Hamas has long called for a comprehensive deal but says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The militant group has refused to lay down its arms as Israel has demanded.

Israel and South Sudan are in talks about relocating Palestinians to the war-torn East African nation, The Associated Press (AP) reported on Tuesday.

The office of Israels deputy foreign minister Sharren Haskel said on Wednesday that she was arriving in South Sudan for a series of meetings in the first visit by a senior government official to the country, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

Damaged humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza scattered on the ground next to the border with the Gaza Strip near the Kissufim crossing in southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

In a statement on Wednesday, South Sudans Ministry of Foreign Affairs called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless.

The AP previously reported that US and Israel have reached out to officials of three East African governments to discuss using their territories as potential destinations for moving Palestinians uprooted from Gaza.

Among those killed while seeking aid on Wednesday were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area approximately 3km away from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), according to staff at Nasser hospital.

Hashim Shamalah, who was trying to reach the sites, said Israeli troops fired towards them as people tried to get through.

Many were shot and fell while fleeing, he said.

Five other Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire while trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses.

The US and Israel support the GHF, an American contractor, as an alternative to the United Nations, which they say allows Hamas to siphon off aid.

The UN, which has delivered aid throughout Gaza for decades when conditions allow, denies the allegations.

Trucks carrying humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza move along the border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites on Wednesday.

There are aid convoys from other groups that travel within 100 metres (328ft) of GHF sites and draw large crowds attempting to loot them.

An overwhelming majority of violent incidents over the past few weeks have been related to those other aid convoys, the organisation said, noting it has provided more than one million meals to aid seekers.

At least six other people were killed by Israeli fire waiting for aid trucks close to the Morag corridor, which separates parts of southern Gaza, Nasser hospital said.

The UN and food security experts have warned starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday reported the warning from the World Food Programme and said the Gaza Health Ministry told UN staff in Gaza that five people died over the previous 24 hours from malnutrition and starvation.

Gazas Health Ministry says 106 children have died of malnutrition-related causes during the war and 129 adults have died since late June when the ministry started to count deaths among this age group.

The UN and its humanitarian partners are doing everything possible to bring aid into Gaza, Mr Dujarric said, but still face significant delays and impediments from Israeli authorities who prevent the delivery of food and other essentials at the scale needed.

A Palestinian boy after collecting water from a distribution point in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the 2023 attack.

Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals.

Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory towards famine.

The offensive has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals.

The UN and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties.

Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.
Kim Jong Un has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn and also supplied large quantities of military equipment (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian president Vladimir Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine, the countries state media said.

The call came ahead of Mr Putins planned meeting with US president Donald Trump in Alaska.

During the call on Tuesday, Mr Putin praised the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by North Korean troops as they fought with Russian forces to repel a Ukrainian incursion into Russias Kursk border region, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Mr Putin also shared with Mr Kim information about his upcoming talks with Mr Trump scheduled to take place on Friday, according to Russias TASS news agency, citing the Kremlin.

Russian president Vladimir Putin, left, and North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic partnership agreement last year (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Kim told Mr Putin that Pyongyang would fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too, as they discussed advancing ties in all fields under a strategic partnership agreement they signed during a summit last year, KCNA said.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Mr Kim has made Moscow the priority of his foreign policy as he aims to break out of diplomatic isolation and expand relations with countries confronting Washington.

His government has dismissed Washington and Seouls stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the Norths nuclear programme, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit with Mr Trump during his first term.

According to South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn and also supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Mr Putins war efforts against Ukraine.

Mr Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Russias Kursk region, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.
Wright was one of Northern Irelands most ruthless paramilitary bosses

Billy King Rat Wright was one of the most feared gunmen of the Troubles.

The sectarian killers name lives on in infamy,

Wright was charismatic, religious, ruthless, and cold. He was feared by most but respected by some in Portadown for taking the war to the IRA.

Where did King Rat come from, how did he live his life and why did he take others lives?

The Belfast Telegraphs security correspondent Allison Morris joined Ciaran Dunbar to discuss the notorious loyalist leader.

This podcast was originally recorded and released in August 2022.
BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowtion Health, one of the nation's leading healthcare revenue cycle companies, gained recognition from Inc. as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in America for the fourth consecutive year. This year, Knowtion Health climbed 1,160 spots to rank 2,958 on the Inc. 5000 list, marking a significant leap from last year's position.

Inc. 5000 logo

The Inc. 5000 list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy's most dynamic segmentits independent businesses. Companies on the 2025 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to the percentage of revenue growth recorded from 2021 to 2024.

"As health systems face mounting financial pressures and a shifting payer landscape, Knowtion Health's recognition on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list underscores our commitment to helping providers uncover and resolve more insurance reimbursement entitlements faster," said Jayson Yardley, Chief Executive Officer of Knowtion Health. "Our continued growth is fueled by a highly skilled, technology-enabled revenue cycle team dedicated to resolving denials and safeguarding the financial stability of healthcare organizations nationwide."

"According to our latest denials research report, nearly half of hospital revenue cycle leaders now cite payer denials as the greatest threat to financial performance," said Yardley. "Through ongoing innovation and deep operational expertise, Knowtion Health drives stronger recoveries and reduces financial frictionenabling hospitals to stay focused on patient care."

"Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company's tenacity and clarity of vision," says Mike Hofman, Editor-in-Chief of Inc. "These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn't just weather the stormthey grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy."

According to Inc., the 5000 ranked companies generated $300 billion in combined revenue in 2024 and added 536,086 new jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years. Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Knowtion Health

Knowtion Health is a leading provider of technology-enabled revenue cycle management services serving more than 550 hospitals nationwide and managing over $4.5 billion annually in outstanding balance accounts for clients. Recognized as an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company, Knowtion Health is a multi-year recipient of the Black Book award, which honors top partners as ranked by healthcare providers. Knowtion Health is a portfolio company of Arsenal Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm specializing in building technology-rich, market-leading healthcare and industrial growth companies, and Sunstone Partners, a premier private equity firm focused on accelerating growth in technology-enabled services and software companies. For more information, visit KnowtionHealth.com

About Inc.

Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

Media Contact: Christine Hanson-Ehlinger, [email protected], 561-995-1252

SOURCE Knowtion Health
IRA men urged to come clean over how they tried to tarnish name of forgotten victim

Friends of Protestant DJ murdered in 1975 reject claims he was involved with loyalist terrorist groups and the Army

Norman 'Mooch' Kerr

Ivan Little Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 14:00

IRA men have been urged to come clean about how they tried to tarnish the name of the forgotten victim of the Miami Showband massacre 50 years ago.
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.
Malaria kills more than 600,000 people each year.

Spatial repellents are easy to use, low-cost, long-lasting tools that release an active ingredient which repels mosquitoes from a room, ultimately lessening the transmission of disease.

This is one of the first new categories of vector control tools to receive a policy recommendation from the World Health Organization for malaria prevention within the last 25 years.

Earlier this year, SC Johnson opened two high-speed manufacturing lines to produce its Guardian spatial repellent at the company's plant in Nairobi , Kenya.

SC Johnson's spatial repellents are distributed at no profit to the company.

RACINE, Wis., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a policy recommendation for spatial repellents to be used as an innovative tool to help fight insect-borne diseases like malaria. SC Johnson, maker of household brands such as OFF!, Baygon and Raid and leaders in insect science, has been working towards this achievement for more than a decade and has already been distributing millions of its own company-developed and manufactured spatial repellents  SC Johnson Guardian and SC Johnson Mosquito Shield  to communities most in need via various global public health partners. This recommendation strengthens confidence in Guardian and Mosquito Shield, further enabling SC Johnson to deploy these insect-borne disease prevention tools to the world's most vulnerable communities at a much larger scale. The company's spatial repellents are not for profit.

SC Johnson Secures World Health Organization Policy Recommendation for Innovative Tool Proven to Help Prevent Malaria and Other Insect-borne Diseases

"I'm thrilled that the World Health Organization has announced a policy recommendation for spatial repellents as an innovative prevention tool for fighting insect-borne diseases. This important milestone comes after more than 10 years of SC Johnson efforts and more than $100 million invested in the development, testing, production and deployment of our spatial repellent products," said Fisk Johnson, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson. "From day one, this has been a not-for-profit initiative driven by our commitment to combat diseases that threaten hundreds of millions of people. An achievement like this doesn't happen overnight but because of the passion and dedication of thousands of SC Johnson people around the world, we're now able to see this vision come to life. The impact we've made together this far is only the beginning."

Spatial repellents are tools that, when used, release an active ingredient which repels mosquitoes from a room, preventing mosquitoes from biting people and ultimately lessening the transmission of disease. They can be hung in semi-enclosed spaces, including homes and schools, and are about the size of a sheet of paper. They are easy to use, low-cost, long-lasting and effective.

Already, SC Johnson has been distributing, implementing and educating about the important role of spatial repellents in humanitarian settings and working with global public health partners such as The MENTOR Initiative, Society for Family Health Rwanda, United to Beat Malaria and Ministries of Health of several countries. The WHO's approval bolsters the ability for the company to strengthen confidence in these tools and work even more closely with global public health partners and country governments to get spatial repellents in the hands of more people to help save and improve lives.

In addition, the WHO has given prequalification listings for Guardian and Mosquito Shield spatial repellents, naming them specifically as recommended insect-borne disease prevention tools and signaling their ability to be procured through different channels. While SC Johnson partners have already been deploying and using these tools, the prequalification listings demonstrate further their safety, quality and efficacy.

"There are over a billion people that would benefit from the SC Johnson Guardian and SC Johnson Mosquito Shield spatial repellents," said Richard Allan, CEO of The MENTOR Initiative. "People want a tool that works for how they live. Frankly, these are the first tools I've seen in 36 years that have the promise of doing that. These could be a real game changer."

Spatial repellents are one of the first new categories of vector control tools to receive a policy recommendation from the WHO for malaria prevention within the last 25 years. This recommendation will help reach and protect even more families from disease who may not have access to other interventions.

In order to receive a policy recommendation and prequalification listing, the WHO requires ample proof of efficacy, safety and quality. Over the years, SC Johnson has worked with Unitaid and The Gates Foundation to conduct and fund thorough clinical trials of its spatial repellents. Clinical trials have shown that proper use of spatial repellents can reduce risk of disease by up to 33 percent, with Guardian able to provide protection for up to one year. Trials have been conducted in Indonesia, Peru and Kenya, which offered promising results to help secure the recommendation, and the company continues to test their tools to ensure efficacy.

Earlier this year, SC Johnson opened two high-speed manufacturing lines to produce its Guardian spatial repellent at the company's plant in Nairobi, Kenya. At capacity, these new lines will be able to produce up to 20 million units annually. Early next year, the company plans to open a new line at its plant in Pilar, Argentina, to manufacture Guardian, which will produce another 20 million units annually, reaching 20 million people.

Since 2013, SC Johnson has reached more than 110 million people via public health initiatives, education tools and distributing life-saving repellents in the fight against insect-borne disease.

Learn more about what SC Johnson is doing in the fight against malaria and other insect-borne diseases here.

ABOUT SC JOHNSON

Founded in 1886 and headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin USA, SC Johnson believes that a more sustainable, healthier and transparent world that inspires people and creates opportunities isn't just possible  it's our responsibility.

A heritage of innovation and bold, transparent decisions is why our high-quality products and iconic brands  including OFF!, Raid, Glade, Windex, Scrubbing Bubbles, Ziploc, Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day, method, Autan, Baygon, Mr Muscle, Duck, Lysoform and more  are in homes, schools and businesses in virtually every country worldwide.

As a global, purpose-led company, we are committed to making the world a better place today and for future generations. That means relentlessly bringing our expertise in science, innovation and partnerships to bear on some of the world's most pressing environmental and health issues like reducing plastic waste and eradicating malaria. Around the world, we use our resources to unlock greater economic and educational opportunities for people and communities where access may be limited, but curiosity and potential are limitless.

See how SC Johnson is a Family Company At Work For a Better World by visiting scjohnson.com or joining us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

CONTACT

SC Johnson Global Corporate Communication

[email protected]

SOURCE SC Johnson
BENNINGTON  A Manchester man, convicted in 2018 of similar offenses, was sentenced in Bennington on two counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) in a plea deal with the Vermont Attorney General's office.

Michael Holden, 36, was sentenced to 10-15 years behind bars, both concurrent and to serve, and both to run consecutive to his older sentence from the 2018 conviction, meaning her will have to serve out the remainder of his former sentence before serving the minimum of five more years in jail before being considered for release. After any possible release in the future, Holden would also be required to complete sex offender treatment while incarcerated. After any potential release, Holden would be on a 20-year probation and a lifetime registration on the Vermont sex offender registry.

Holden took the plea deal with the Vermont Attorney Generals Office on two of six initial counts of felony second offense possession of child abuse material. In exchange for the two guilty pleas, the Attorney Generals office dismissed the remaining four counts without prejudice, meaning the state could not re-charge Holden for those same crimes.

However, in a slight twist, one of the special conditions of the deal states that the state can refile the dismissed counts if the convictions or plea deal were later challenged on appeal or if further sexual crimes involving children are uncovered. Another special condition is that, in the interest of justice, the court should neither seal nor expunge any dismissed counts in the future.

According to an affidavit in the case, an investigator from the Attorney General's office assigned to the Vermont Internet Crimes Task Force was notified in December 2022 of a probation violation in which Holden had admitted to his probation officer that he had been viewing CSAM at his home. Holden had been placed on probation after being convicted of three counts of CSAM in 2021. His conditions of probation included a ban on possessing any type of pornography, submitting to periodic polygraph examinations, and having a computer at his residence that can access the internet.

The probation officer informed investigators that Holden, told he would be subject to a polygraph the following month, was asked if there were any possible issues he wanted to discuss that might be an issue with his polygraph. Holden told the officer that he had indeed viewed pornography inside his residence. When asked if any of that pornography was related to children, Holden said it was not.

When police searched his Manchester residence at Jennifer Lane after his admission, they located a device under blankets on his bed that had several pages and files bookmarked. When asked what else was on the device, Holden admitted that his Google Drive was attached to the device and that there were numerous images of child pornography in it. Holden was arrested soon after.

Further investigation, including warrants to search various internet accounts, revealed hidden files deep inside Holdens Google accounts and Cloud storage, including several disturbing videos of adults sexually assaulting children as young as six.

Investigators were able to tie the accounts and control of the videos directly back to Holden.

I dont know what else to say, said Holden when given a chance to speak at his sentencing hearing. Its unfortunate what happened to me. I will accept responsibility. Its a fair sentence.

After Holden spoke, Judge Barrett was ready to hand down the sentence.

The court is deeply concerned about the nature and seriousness of the offenses before it, Judge Barrett said. These offenses are not victimless. They involve the exploitation and abuse of real children. The circulation of these materials causes great harm to these children indefinitely on the internet. The defendants statement that this is happening to him gives us pause about accountability. We are here because of his actions.

Holden pleaded guilty in front of Judge Barrett in November 2024 to two counts of Possession of child sexual abuse material, second or subsequent offense, at his change of plea hearing. He was initially facing a possible 10 years for each of the six counts.

After the sentencing, Holden was led out of the courtroom in shackles to serve his sentence. If he does not re-offend or get in any more trouble while incarcerated, Holden will be eligible for release somewhere around his 58th birthday.

According to information provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), collectors of CSAM go to great lengths to maintain their collections because the images supply sexual gratification and are used to trade for new images online. At the same time, collectors of CSAM go to great lengths to secure their collections because these images present a threat of prosecution and carry a highly negative stigma in society. The Cloud, an ideal repository for CSAM, provides these collectors with a solution to these two issues.

United States federal law defines CSAM as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor (a person less than 18 years old). Not only do these images and videos document victims exploitation and abuse, but when these files are shared across the internet, child victims suffer re-victimization each time the image of their sexual abuse is viewed. Sixty-seven percent of CSAM survivors said the distribution of their images impacts them differently than the hands-on abuse they suffered because the distribution never ends, and the images are permanent.

The NCMEC's CyberTipline has received more than 195 million reports related to CSAM since its inception in 1998.

If you or someone you know is a victim of child sexual abuse, please reach out to 911 or contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) at their tip line. https://report.cybertip.org/
Overall, this production moves briskly but not cohesively, especially in a second half that loses much of the momentum of the first half. The show strains under the weight of invention that can be, at times, as misguided as it can be inspired.
New Marlborough's Mary Ann Palermo has a new Beatles cover album on the way with "Beatlemania" alum Tom Teeley in the producer's chair, adding to her repertoire of re-interpretations of hits from various genres.
In the 1930s, Pittsfields punitive approach to homelessness and panhandlers didn't seem to have achieved much to alleviate anyone's addiction, mental health issues, the economics of a Great Depression, or the housing shortages that plagued Berkshire cities.
Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data.


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.
Tensor is the only fully autonomous L4 Robocar that you can own.

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tensor, a leading agentic AI company, is shifting the automotive landscape with the unveiling of the world's first personally owned autonomous vehicleTensor Robocar. By redefining the future of embodied AI, agent, AI defined vehicle, privacy, and safety, Tensor empowers individuals to truly Own Your Autonomy.

Tensor Robocar (PRNewsfoto/Tensor)

Built on a decade of proprietary engineering prowess, advanced artificial intelligence (AI), and a ground up design for autonomous and agentic vehicles, the Tensor Robocar reimagines what a personal vehicle can be. As a pioneer creating a new category, Tensor offers a first-of-its-kind experienceliberating individuals through choice, privacy, and true ownership of their own AI.

"When the world shifts how will you move?" said Amy Luca, Chief Marketing Officer at Tensor. "We are building a world where individuals own their personal AGI agents, enhancing freedom, privacy and autonomy. With Tensor, we're introducing the world's first personal Robocar, ushering in the era of AI defined vehicles. This isn't a car as we know it. It's an embodied personal agent that moves you. It's time to Own Your Autonomy."

The World's First Robocar for Volume Production

Tensor isn't adapted for autonomy as an afterthoughtit's designed and built for it. Every contour and system has been engineered from the ground up to serve AI perception, safety, and reliability. With over 100 seamlessly integrated sensors, Tensor offers uncompromised visibilityfree from the constraints of legacy vehicle design. Radar-transparent materials, unobstructed lidar sightlines, and a low hood profile all reflect a safety-first philosophy. At its core, Tensor's advanced electrical and electronic architecture delivers full-stack redundancyacross power, communications, and controlensuring fail-operational performance in any scenario. This is not just a new carit's a fundamentally new kind of vehicle, purpose-built for the autonomous and agentic era.

Tensor is powered by the world's most vertically integrated Level 4 autonomy stack. Its sensor suite includes 37 cameras, 5 lidars, 11 radars, 22 microphones, 10 ultrasonic sensors, 3 IMUs, GNSS, 16 collision detectors, 8 water-level detectors, 4 tire-pressure sensors, 1 smoke detector, and triple-channel 5G. This extraordinary level of hardware and software vertical integration sets a new benchmark in automotive sensing.

Driving it all is Tensor's advanced AI, built on the Tensor Foundation Model. Unlike traditional rule-based systems, it is entirely data-drivenlearning perception, prediction, and planning from vast real-world and simulated datasets. Based on Transformer architecture and advanced sensor fusion, it navigates challenging conditionsnight, glare, fog, rainwith confidence. Tensor's dual-system AI mirrors human cognition: System 1 delivers fast, reflexive responses through imitation learning from expert drivers, while System 2 uses a sophisticated multimodal Visual Language Model to reason through rare and complex edge cases. Trained on proprietary and internet-scale visual data, it enables Tensor to handle the unexpectednot just the predictable.

The World's First Personal Level-4 Robocar, Beyond RoboTaxi

The overwhelming majority of new vehicles sold in the world today are purchased for personal use  and Tensor is extending this ownership model into the future. The Tensor Robocar is the first volume-produced, consumer-ready autonomous vehicledesigned from the ground up for private ownership at scale.

While today's autonomous vehicles are primarily built as RoboTaxisheavily maintained, depot-dependent fleetsTensor represents a radical departure: a truly independent personal Robocar engineered to serve its owner, not its operator. Designed for real-world autonomy without daily technician oversight, Tensor brings unprecedented levels of self-reliance to consumer vehicles. From intelligent sensor-cleaning systems with dedicated wipers and nozzles, to self-diagnosis, autonomous parking, charging, and even protective sensor covers when idle, Tensor anticipates and solves the challenges of everyday ownership. It performs its own startup checks, manages maintenance, updates over-the-air, and is always readywhether parked in a garage with no signal or delivering itself for service. More than just a car, Tensor is a self-sufficient embodied agent, designed from the ground up to operate autonomously, adapt intelligently, and put freedom and control back in the hands of the driver.

Tensor's RoboCar will be available in select global markets in the U.S., Europe, and the UAE.

Safety Ensured with the Highest Specs

Purpose-built for SAE Level 4 autonomy, Tensor can operate entirely without driver input under defined conditions. Every elementfrom its chassis, electronics and electrical architecture to its precision sensor-cleaning systems and thermal management systemshas been meticulously and holistically engineered from the ground up. Even details like the washer fluid system are optimized to clean lidar and camera lenses, ensuring uninterrupted sensor visibility. Just like human eyes, key sensors even have protecting covers when the sensors are not in use. Imagine parking your private Tensor by the entry way for a week, the key sensors are shielded away from pollen, dust, sand, or other unwanted debris. This seamless integration of hardware and intelligence sets a new benchmark for automotive-grade autonomydelivering maximum capability with zero compromise.

Tensor is designed to meet the world's most stringent automotive standards, including FMVSS, IIHS Top Safety Pick+, and US N-cap 5-Star ratings, along with rigorous European and GCC standards. Safety has been our core focus from the outset, engineered for autonomous, agentic, and electric vehicles. To prevent single points of failure, Tensor Robocar features full redundancy across sensors, communication links, drive-by-wire systems, power, and thermal management.

The World's First AI Agentic Car

The Tensor Robocar is more than autonomousit's the world's first AI agentic car. Far beyond a basic voice assistant, Tensor enables natural, conversational interaction whether you're inside the cabin, nearby, connecting remotely via voice or text, or even waving at it like a friend. At its core is a state-of-the-art multimodal Large Language Model (LLM), embedded within an agentic framework that brings the entire vehicle to life. The AI agent continuously processes data from in-cabin cameras, microphones, and other sensors for perception, using the LLM for advanced reasoning, decision-making, and tool use. The Tensor software architecture is designed to be AI-native as a responsive and intelligent companionone that supports, adapts, and evolves with you in ways no traditional vehicle ever could.

Privacy Isn't a FeatureIt's the Foundation of Tensor

Your Robocar, your data. With Tensor, privacy isn't a featureit's the foundation. Unlike cloud-dependent systems, all data on Tensorusers' location, preferences, and recordsis processed and stored locally on the vehicle, ensuring security. Users can access their data via the end-to-end encrypted smartphone app or onboard interface, making data impossible to track, extract, or compromise without your consent. Additionally, physical camera covers and microphone off switches provide users with guaranteed privacy and discretion. Tensor offers unmatched security and privacy. Whether you're conducting confidential conversations or handling proprietary information, Tensor eliminates risk and reduces personal liability. Our AI doesn't just assistit acts on your behalf, protects your privacy, and gives you total control over your digital self.

28 World Firsts

Tensor's Robocar is equipped with 28 world-firsts specifically designed to seamlessly integrate into the modern mobile lifestyle. It's the first personal Robocar  a fully autonomous, automotive-grade vehicle built for private ownership and mass production. It's also the world's first AI agentic vehicle, powered by a multimodal LLM that perceives, reasons, and takes action using tool-use capabilities through MCP protocols  all while learning your preferences with memory over time. Tensor is the first to natively support all levels of autonomy, from L0 to L4, and features a true Dual Mode design that lets you drive or be driven with seamless ease. And it reimagines the in-cabin experience with the world's first foldable steering wheel and sliding display  giving you more space, more flexibility, and a radically new way to interact with your vehicle. Tensor doesn't just move you  it moves the entire industry forward.

For the full list of Tensor Robocar features and vehicle specification, see more at https://www.tensor.auto .

World Class Partnerships to Reach a new Height in Auto Tech

Tensor Robocar is made possible by leading strategic partners whose expertise in advanced technology and scalable manufacturing are essential for revolutionizing autonomous driving.

World's Most Powerful AI Supercomputer in a Car - NVIDIA NVIDIA powers Tensor Robocar's cutting-edge onboard supercomputer with 8,000 TOPs enabling advanced AI and unparalleled safety through high redundancy systems.

- World Class Technologically Advanced Manufacturing Pipelines - VinFast VinFast and Tensor are partnered to scale production at the VinFast Hai Phong factory in Vietnam , where every stage of manufacturing  from stamping and welding to painting and final assembly  will be carried out, paving the way for mass-market deployment.

World Class Partnerships to Reach a new Height in Auto Tech Tensor is partnered with a series of world class automotive industry leaders, including Autoliv, ZF, Bosch, Continental, Veoneer, Schaeffler, Batz, ARaymond, ITW, FEV, Omnex, HomeLink, Rocsys, Brose, and many others. Tensor is also partnered with a multitude of top automotive chip makers, including NVIDIA, AMD, NXP, TI, Qualcomm, Samsung, Broadcom, Infineon, Renesas, u-blox, muRata, Hamamatsu, ams OSRAM, Maxim, STMicroelectronics, indie Semiconductor, and cloud provider Oracle. The vehicle's groundbreaking features are a direct result of close collaboration with these leading companies in the industry. Tensor has collaborated with Marsh, a leading global insurance broker and risk advisor, to provide the world's first insurance policy for Robocars.



Start of Delivery to Customers from 2026

Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2026. To find out more information, follow the link https://www.tensor.auto .

Tensor Brand

Founded in Silicon Valley in 2016, we are an American company with our headquarters in San Jose, California.

Under our prior brand name, AutoX, we entered the China market in 2019 to launch a robotaxi fleet. These China operations have been fully divested and discontinued so we could focus on developing and launching Tensor.

We have evolved into Tensor, a consumer brand dedicated to delivering personalized, private, and autonomous technology for individual ownership. Our name, Tensor, reflects the strength, intelligence, and advanced AI that drives our commitment to innovation, security, and personal autonomy in transportation. This transition is both a strategic shift and a bold statement of our new business modelone centered on personal autonomy. For more, visit our website at https://www.tensor.auto and our official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TensorAuto

We are proud to be an independent California-based company, operated and led by our U.S. employees. Headquartered in California, we maintain a global presence with regional offices in Spain, the UAE, and Singapore. The majority of our ownership is held by our US employees and investors from the UK, US, Japan, and South Korea.

About Tensor

Tensor is an American AI company dedicated to building agentic products that empower individual consumers. Our flagship product, the Tensor Robocar, is the world's first personal Robocar and the first AI agentic vehiclefully autonomous, automotive-grade, and built for private ownership at scale. With native support for L0L4 autonomy and a true Dual Mode design, you can choose to drive or be driven, enhanced by a foldable steering wheel and sliding display. Founded in 2016 in Silicon Valley, Tensor is headquartered in San Jose, California, with offices in Barcelona, Singapore, and Dubai. At Tensor, we champion personal AI autonomy and ownership. Our vision is to build a future where everyone owns their own Artificial General Intelligencea personal AGI that enables more time, freedom, and autonomy. We're forging an alternative path where AGI serves only you, and is controlled solely by you. To those who share this vision: Own Your Autonomy.

SOURCE Tensor
Oscar-winning Irish actor Cillian Murphy plays the impassioned headteacher of a last-chance reform school in a trailer for Netflix film Steve.

Set in the mid 1990s and directed by Tim Mielants, the movie follows a pivotal day in the life of Steve (Murphy) and his students, who exist in a world that has abandoned them.

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The drama is a reimagining of Max Porters Sunday Times bestseller Shy, named after its protagonist, a teenager who boards at the school with a programme for troubled youths.

The trailer shows Murphys character describing himself to a film crew as very, very tired amid clips of violence among pupils.

In a voiceover, he adds: These are extraordinarily complex young people.

Other scenes sees Steve speaking to Shy, drinking an unknown substance from a small transparent bottle, and screaming while clenching his fists.

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I May Destroy You star Jay Lycurgo plays Shy, a troubled teenager who needs to reconcile with his past and control his impulses for self-destruction and violence.

The movie shows Shys interactions with Steve, who in turn is grappling with his mental health as he fights to protect the school from closure.

Tracey Ullman as Amanda and Cillian Murphy as Steve (Robert Viglasky/Neflix/PA)

Supporting cast include Tracey Ullman and Emily Watson, who starred with Murphy in the Irish drama Small Things Like These.

Cork-born Murphy (49), who is a producer for Steve, won a Bafta and Oscar last year for his title role in Christopher Nolans epic, Oppenheimer.

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He plays Birmingham gangster Tommy Shelby in TV hit series Peaky Blinders, which is being turned into a film for Netflix which will also star Saltburns Barry Keoghan.

Steve is in select cinemas from September 19th and on Netflix from October 3rd.
BOSTON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TetraScience , the Scientific Data and AI Cloud company, today announced the launch of Tetra Workflows , a comprehensive solution that fundamentally transforms how laboratories manage and automate scientific data workflows at scale. Built on TetraScience's next-generation Scientific Data Management System (SDMS), the platform addresses the critical challenge facing global life sciences organizations: eliminating the manual, error-prone processes that delay critical discoveries and slow time to clinic.

Modern laboratories are drowning in data management complexity. Scientists across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and life sciences organizations waste up to 40% of their time on manual data movement between instruments, electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), laboratory information management systems (LIMSs), and laboratory execution systems (LESs). This manual approach creates a cascade of errors and discovery delays that directly impact scientific outcomes.

"Scientists should be focused on science, not wrestling with data management," said Simon Meffan-Main, General Manager at TetraScience. "Tetra Workflows transforms how labs handle data by automating the entire journey from initial collection to seamless access through any ELN, LIMS, or LES, enabling scientists to focus on what they do best: advancing human health through breakthrough discoveries."

Tetra Workflows enables laboratories to orchestrate and automate data workflows from instruments to lab informatics software at unprecedented scale and reliability. The platform encompasses the entire journey of scientific data, from initial collection and input through storage, analysis, and reporting, ensuring data quality, reliability, consistency, traceability, and efficiency throughout the process.

The solution includes four breakthrough capabilities designed to eliminate manual processes and accelerate scientific discovery:

AI-Powered Workflow Creation Assistant

The Workflow Creation Assistant uses AI to enable intelligent workflow creation, allowing both IT professionals and scientists to map engineered data to LIMS or ELN systems without complex scripting. This revolutionary capability delivers 40% faster creation of custom integrations with the ability to proactively identify data anomalies and quality issues before deployment. The Workflow Creation Assistant democratizes the ability to create sophisticated data workflows and makes scientists self-sufficient in building their own automated processes.

Visual Pipeline Builder

The Visual Pipeline Builder provides intuitive no-code and low-code tools that enable users to quickly build automated data operations and transformations through a graphical interface. Users can deploy new pipelines directly from the application, creating 100% faster development of custom multi-step pipelines and new types of integrations. This visual approach eliminates the need for specialized programming knowledge while maintaining enterprise-grade functionality and reliability.

Tetra Data Capture App

The Tetra Data Capture App addresses a critical gap in laboratory digitization by capturing data from simple instruments like balances and pH meters that lack export capabilities. Using advanced photo capture technology, the app automatically uploads results to the correct records and combines them with metadata into analysis-ready datasets. This capability ensures that no data is lost in the digitization process and enables comprehensive workflow automation across all laboratory instruments.

Library of Proven Recipes

The platform includes hundreds of pre-configured "recipes" that bundle proven pipelines and automations for common use cases. These recipes enable rapid deployment or customization, allowing organizations to leverage the collective experience of the scientific community rather than building everything from scratch. The library covers integrations with leading systems including Benchling, Revvity Signals, IDBS, Veeva Vault LIMS, and hundreds of scientific instruments.

Transformative Results: Early Adopters See Dramatic Improvements

Early adopters of Tetra Workflows are experiencing transformative results that demonstrate the platform's ability to revolutionize scientific data management: 90% reduction in implementation time, 40% increase in lab productivity, 75% reduction in error rates, and 60% fewer steps in scientific workflows.

Unlike generic middleware solutions that treat all data equally, Tetra Workflows is purpose-built specifically for the unique challenges of scientific data management. The platform understands the intricacies of scientific instruments, the complexity of regulatory requirements, and the specific needs of life sciences organizations.

Key differentiators include deep understanding of scientific file formats, instrument protocols, and laboratory workflows; built-in support for GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, and other critical life sciences regulations; pre-built connectors for hundreds of scientific instruments and software systems; seamless bidirectional data movement to and from any ELN, LIMS, or LES system; and scalable architecture designed to handle the massive data volumes generated by modern scientific research.

Built for Scientists and Scientific IT

Tetra Workflows delivers value across the entire organization, addressing the specific needs of both scientific and IT personnel. Scientists gain instant access to data through context-aware metadata, simplified automated workflows, self-service no-code tools for building custom workflows, automated data integrity and compliance, and more time to focus on actual research rather than data management.

Scientific IT teams benefit from replacing brittle point-to-point integrations with a centralized platform, using a library of productized workflows to eliminate custom development, reducing IT burden through self-service capabilities for scientists, and implementing a modern, scalable platform that supports digital transformation initiatives.

Tetra Workflows is available immediately for existing TetraScience customers with no additional pricing beyond existing Platform licenses. This approach reflects TetraScience's commitment to providing comprehensive value to the scientific community and accelerating adoption of automated data workflows across the life sciences industry.

"We believe that advanced scientific data workflow automation should be accessible to all organizations working to improve human health," added Meffan-Main. "By including Tetra Workflows in our existing platform licensing, we're removing barriers to adoption and enabling more laboratories to focus on scientific discovery rather than data management challenges."

About TetraScience

TetraScience is the Scientific Data and AI Cloud company with a mission to improve and extend human life radically. It is accelerating the Scientific AI revolution by designing and industrializing AI-native scientific datasets, which it brings to life in a growing suite of next-generation scientific data and lab data automation products and AI-enabled scientific use cases. For more information, visit tetrascience.com or follow us on LinkedIn .

Media Contacts: [email protected]

SOURCE TetraScience
Former The Apprentice contestant Tom Skinner has said his barbecue and drinks with US vice president JD Vance was a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The 34-year-old businessman, who has become a social media star on X following his time on the BBC business show, met up with US president Donald Trumps number two Mr Vance and his friends and family, after the duo had previously chatted on the social media platform.

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In a post on X, Skinner said: When the vice president of the USA invites you for a BBQ an beers, you say yes.

Here is a pic of Me and Vice President @JDVance towards the end of the night after a few beers Im overdressed in my suit, but when the VP invites you to a BBQ, you dont risk turning up in shorts an flip-flops Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his https://t.co/HQGtaIY6fD pic.twitter.com/QOkL813qoR  Thomas Skinner  (@iamtomskinner) August 12, 2025

Unreal night with JD and his friends and family. He was a proper gent. Lots of laughs and some fantastic food. A brilliant night, one to tell the grand kids about.

In a later post he added: Here is a pic of me and vice president @JDVance towards the end of the night after a few beers.

Im overdressed in my suit, but when the VP invites you to a BBQ, you dont risk turning up in shorts an flip-flops.

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Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his friends and family. Once in a lifetime. Bosh.

Mr Vance has previously shown support for Skinner on X, after the star claimed he had received death threats and vile comments about my children, following a series of posts claiming somethings gone wrong in the UK, and saying there is nothing wrong with being proud of where youre from.

Following the post complaining about alleged abuse, Mr Vance replied with a picture of a cartoon character and a message that read: Hang in there, my friend. Remember that 90 percent of people attacking your family look like this.

Hang in there, my friend. Remember that 90 percent of people attacking your family look like this: pic.twitter.com/Efc08xv7Ak  JD Vance (@JDVance) July 30, 2025

In other posts, Skinner had said that it was not far-right to be flying your flag and loving your country, and complained that it aint safe out there anymore in London, claiming the city was hostile and tense.

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Mr Vances meeting with Skinner came after he joined foreign secretary David Lammy at his Chevening country estate last week.

On The Apprentice, Skinner was fired by Lord Alan Sugar in week nine during the shows 15th series in 2019.
A funfair owner who managed to stop local authorities securing an injunction against his festival operations has described his success as "a milestone for showpeople everywhere."

Louth County Council had tried to get a High Court injunction against Killian Allen, who continued to run his 10-day festival in Blackrock despite only having permission for a three-day event this year.

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The local man has held the 10-day fun event in the village for the last 15 years after taking over the funfair which has been held at the site for over 50 years.

However this year the local authorities only allowed him to hold the fair for three days, which he says was not feasible and would have finished his business.

Mr Allen claims he has been trying to engage with the council for the last six months to find a resolution but has been largely ignored.

Killian Allen

Despite the order, he moved on site with the funfair last weekend and received legal letters from the council which rescinded him of all permission and advised him that the council was to seek a High Court injunction.

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"I heard that the council were on their way to the High Court on Tuesday, while I was working in Kildare," said Mr Allen.

"So I drove up in my shorts and T-shirt and represented myself, without a solicitor or a barrister. Thankfully I had a fair judge who saw the passion I have for the funfair.

"This case was not about the money but about the keeping the fun and festivity for my kids and their kids to have the same experience as we had growing up.

"I made a stand against the local authorities and it is a milestone for showpeople everywhere. Funfairs and circuses are protected under Unesco and should be recognised and supported."

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"I've been involved in the funfairs since I was six years old and I personally feel that it is important to stand up for Irish traditions and cultures as a lot of them are being lost.

"I think it is important to learn from this that everyone needs to work together in a community and, after talking to local businesses, I think 10 days is too long for a festival and three days is too short so maybe six days is the answer.

"But for now, the funfair is open in Blackrock for the full 10 days, until this Sunday and I hope everyone will come out and support it."

In a statement, Louth County Council said: "Following a legal hearing on Tuesday, 12th August, Louth County Council reached agreement with K Allen & Sons Ltd regarding the operation of the Blackrock Funfair.

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"The agreement provides Louth County Council with the protection of the Courts to ensure full compliance with the terms of the licence.

"Under the agreed terms, the festival organisers will operate in a limited capacity, will be fully responsible for all clean-up obligations, have clarified and confirmed insurance and indemnities, and must maintain access for council and emergency services.

"Over the next five days, Louth County Council will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all conditions are met."
Racist attacks in Ireland have intensified in recent months, with teenagers and young people perpetrating the majority of incidents, the special rapporteur on racial equality has said.

Dr Ebun Joseph, chief executive of the Institute of Antiracism and Black Studies, who is also the special rapporteur for the National Plan Against Racism, said that a rise in incidents of crime involving members of minority communities is becoming a national crisis.

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Recent attacks on members of the Indian community have been widely condemned.

People take part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

The Ireland India Council believes there is an organised social media campaign against the Indian community in Ireland and the number of violent attacks has intensified since January this year.

A large crowd gathered outside the Department of the Taoiseach on Wednesday for a silent assembly in support of migrant workers.

Dr Joseph said that racism and racial crime is not a new thing in Ireland.

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Its been there. The black community, the Roma community, the new Traveller community have experienced racism in Ireland for years, she said.

This is not a new fight but in the last few months it has intensified. What is scary is that right now we have teenagers actually perpetrating these acts.

Young people are being made to think that violence against another person because of the colour of their skin or where they are from or their accent, that to feel that is right to do is a major problem. This is national crisis.

A protester taking part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

Shashank Chakerwarti, of Desi Community Against Racism, said the protest also honours the dignity of victims of racist attacks.

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Another person was severely lacerated on his eyebrow just yesterday. His brow was cut into two pieces. Images of that sends chills down your body.

We want to send a clear message to the Taoiseach (Micheal Martin) that you need to control this teenage violence and criminal activity that is going on in Dublin.

Theres been a lot of content directly taken from the UK narrative, of migrants coming to Ireland via boats, but that is not the case.

The far right are using that narrative and are applying it here which is completely incorrect.

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There is a severe frustration that some individuals are feeling, especially in deprived communities and areas where you dont see a lot of investment and local services.

They feel that third country people are taking their jobs and houses, but that is not the case at all.

He also called for the Government to introduce a campaign to encourage people to report hate crimes.

We need to (educate) people on how to report racist crime, but there is no direct engagement with communities about this, he added.

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People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy was among those to take part in the protest.

He said it is important to take a stand against racist violence.

What we have seen on our streets over the past number of weeks is Indian people and others targeted with violent attacks because of the colour of their skin and where they are perceived to come from, he said.

People take part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

We need to push back against those who are pushing the racist lies and propaganda which is creating an environment where these attacks are taking place.

Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore said that racism has crept into Irish society.

We are at the point now where it is quite normalised for people to be racist in what they say on social media, the Wicklow TD added.

Ireland Finance Minister ODowd condemns racist gangs pa... Read More

It is important we have events and days like these where we stand and say this is not okay, it is not acceptable for racist attacks.

There are racist elements who are allowed to say what they want without any come back.

Our health system would collapse without many migrant communities and having that conversation of the value of migrants and also reflect on Irish people who have been migrants, its something Irish people are very familiar with.
A wedding after 25 years together was really a rollercoaster ride for one couple who spent their special day at Emerald Park.

Roy Murray (56) and Delphine Coudray (47) decided to do something unique to mark their wedding day and so headed for Emerald Park to ride some rollercoasters for the first time in their lives.

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The couple from Trim, Co. Meath have been together for 25 years and looped the loops with their two adult children Zoe and Luka.

"Delphine proposed to me last year because it was a leap year and I wasn't expecting it but of course I said yes!," said Roy who works in Crinion's Furniture Store.

The couple got married in the Ardboyne Hotel in Navan on Monday with their children as witnesses and then had a barbecue at their house before heading off to the fun venue in Ratoath.

"We wanted to do something a little different and something with our children and it was a bit cloudy for the beach so it was Emerald Park. We started off on the children's rollercoasters and worked up the courage for the Cuchulainn which was fun," he said.

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Delphine wished she could've spent a little more time at the top of the Cuchulainn, where the views were fantastic.

"We had never been on a roller coaster before. It was so scary, it was so much fun," said the employee of Animation Ireland.

"The views from the top were amazing, I wish we could've stayed up there a little bit longer.

"I've always dropped the children, who are in their 20s, at Emerald Park over the years but I've never been so it was a fantastic day to spend there with them. They have always loved Emerald Park and were running around like they were teenagers again," she laughed.

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"I proposed last year because we just were always so busy and I got to the stage where I thought it would be nice to cement things"

The couple then went to Bellinter House for a meal to end the day but are planning a bigger family occasion later in the year.

A spokesperson for Emerald Park offered the couple huge congratulations and said they were sorry they were not made aware of the big occasion it was for them on Monday. The park has offered the couple complimentary tickets if they wished to return at any stage to ride the roller coasters again.
Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid on Wednesday, health officials and witnesses said, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will allow Palestinians to leave during an upcoming military offensive in Gaza.

Mr Netanyahu wants to realise US President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of more than two million people through what the prime minister refers to as voluntary migration  and what critics have warned could be ethnic cleansing.

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Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the Strip if they want, Mr Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Tuesday with i24, an Israeli TV station, to discuss the planned offensive in some of the territorys most populated areas including Gaza City.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference (Abir Sultan/Pool Photo via AP)

We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave.

Witnesses and staff at Nasser and Awda hospitals, which received the bodies, said people were killed on their way to aid distribution sites and while awaiting convoys entering the Gaza Strip.

Israel did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month.

Hamas and Egyptian officials met on Wednesday in Cairo, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou.

Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to talks in Cairo, the prime ministers office said.

Israel has said it will widen its military offensive against Hamas to the areas of Gaza that it does not yet control, where most of the territorys residents have sought refuge.

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Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire.

Israeli soldiers use binoculars to look at damaged buildings in the Gaza Strip, from southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the October 7 2023 attack that sparked the war.

Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.

Mr Netanyahu was asked by i24 News if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal and he responded that he wanted all of the hostages back, alive and dead.

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Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

Hamas has long called for a comprehensive deal but says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The militant group has refused to lay down its arms as Israel has demanded.

Israel and South Sudan are in talks about relocating Palestinians to the war-torn East African nation, The Associated Press (AP) reported on Tuesday.

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The office of Israels deputy foreign minister Sharren Haskel said on Wednesday that she was arriving in South Sudan for a series of meetings in the first visit by a senior government official to the country, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

Damaged humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza scattered on the ground next to the border with the Gaza Strip near the Kissufim crossing in southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

In a statement on Wednesday, South Sudans Ministry of Foreign Affairs called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless.

The AP previously reported that US and Israel have reached out to officials of three East African governments to discuss using their territories as potential destinations for moving Palestinians uprooted from Gaza.

Among those killed while seeking aid on Wednesday were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area approximately 3km away from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), according to staff at Nasser hospital.

Hashim Shamalah, who was trying to reach the sites, said Israeli troops fired towards them as people tried to get through.

Many were shot and fell while fleeing, he said.

Five other Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire while trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses.

The US and Israel support the GHF, an American contractor, as an alternative to the United Nations, which they say allows Hamas to siphon off aid.

The UN, which has delivered aid throughout Gaza for decades when conditions allow, denies the allegations.

Trucks carrying humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza move along the border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites on Wednesday.

There are aid convoys from other groups that travel within 100 metres (328ft) of GHF sites and draw large crowds attempting to loot them.

An overwhelming majority of violent incidents over the past few weeks have been related to those other aid convoys, the organisation said, noting it has provided more than one million meals to aid seekers.

At least six other people were killed by Israeli fire waiting for aid trucks close to the Morag corridor, which separates parts of southern Gaza, Nasser hospital said.

The UN and food security experts have warned starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday reported the warning from the World Food Programme and said the Gaza Health Ministry told UN staff in Gaza that five people died over the previous 24 hours from malnutrition and starvation.

Gazas Health Ministry says 106 children have died of malnutrition-related causes during the war and 129 adults have died since late June when the ministry started to count deaths among this age group.

The UN and its humanitarian partners are doing everything possible to bring aid into Gaza, Mr Dujarric said, but still face significant delays and impediments from Israeli authorities who prevent the delivery of food and other essentials at the scale needed.

A Palestinian boy after collecting water from a distribution point in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the 2023 attack.

Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals.

Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory towards famine.

The offensive has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals.

The UN and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties.

Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.
Bangladeshi anti-corruption officials have given evidence in court against former British anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq, accusing her of using a family connection to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina to obtain state-owned land in the South Asian country.

Ms Siddiq, who is Ms Hasinas niece, resigned from her post in Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmers Government in January following reports that she lived in London properties linked to her aunt and was named in an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh.

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The Labour MP represents the north London district of Hampstead and Highgate and served as economic secretary to the Treasury  the minister responsible for tackling financial corruption.



The trial at the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 formally began on Wednesday (Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP)

She is being tried together with her mother, Sheikh Rehana, brother Radwan Mujib and sister Azmina.

Ms Siddiq has been charged with facilitating their receipt of state land in a township project near the capital Dhaka.

They are out of the country and being tried in absentia.

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Ms Siddiqs lawyers have called the charges baseless and politically motivated.

Muhammad Tariqul Islam, a public prosecutor, disputed a claim by Ms Siddiq that she is not Bangladeshi, saying the anti-corruption watchdog through investigations found that she is a citizen.

The prosecutor said if Ms Siddiq is convicted she could be sentenced to three to 10 years in prison.



Public prosecutor Muhammad Tariqul Islam, wearing a tie, spoke to reporters after the hearing (Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP)

Ms Siddiq in an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian recently referred to Bangladesh as a foreign country and called the charges against her completely absurd.

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She asserted to The Guardian she was collateral damage in the longstanding feud between her aunt and Bangladeshs interim leader Muhammad Yunus.

Ms Hasina had a frosty relation with Mr Yunus, and during her rule Mr Yunus faced a number of cases including for graft allegations.

Courts overturned those charges before he took over as interim leader days after Ms Hasinas ousting last year in a student-led uprising.

Separately, the anti-corruption investigation has alleged that Ms Siddiqs family was involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of money were said to have been embezzled.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian president Vladimir Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine, the countries state media said.

The call came ahead of Mr Putins planned meeting with US president Donald Trump in Alaska.

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During the call on Tuesday, Mr Putin praised the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by North Korean troops as they fought with Russian forces to repel a Ukrainian incursion into Russias Kursk border region, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Mr Putin also shared with Mr Kim information about his upcoming talks with Mr Trump scheduled to take place on Friday, according to Russias TASS news agency, citing the Kremlin.



Russian president Vladimir Putin, left, and North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic partnership agreement last year (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Kim told Mr Putin that Pyongyang would fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too, as they discussed advancing ties in all fields under a strategic partnership agreement they signed during a summit last year, KCNA said.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Mr Kim has made Moscow the priority of his foreign policy as he aims to break out of diplomatic isolation and expand relations with countries confronting Washington.

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His government has dismissed Washington and Seouls stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the Norths nuclear programme, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit with Mr Trump during his first term.

According to South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn and also supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Mr Putins war efforts against Ukraine.

Mr Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Russias Kursk region, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.
By 2007, mining consultancy SRK Consultants had wrapped a starter, non-JORC-compliant 43-101 resource around the project of 5.6 million tonnes at 0.6 per cent copper.

Norfolk says the resource is still open in all directions and, notably, does not include some of the stellar hits that were never worked into the resource. These hits include 41m at 2.46 per cent copper from surface and 4m going a whopping 17.37 per cent copper.

Another 39m intersection in the oxide zone, grading 1.48 per cent copper from surface, is also yet to be worked into the resource, along with 29m at 1.25 per cent copper from surface and 14.9m at 1.82 per cent copper from just 8.9m. Norfolk is now planning to twin some of those holes to prove they were real and drill out the oxide zone resource ahead of building a low-cost, high-margin heap leach operation to produce copper cathode.

This strategy is not a shot in the dark - Chile and its neighbours have a deep track record of successful heap leach operations, where favourable metallurgy, low stripping ratios and established infrastructure create projects with rapid paybacks and robust margins. Norfolk says Carmen has all of these advantages and the geology gives the company multiple shots at goal.

The oxide cap is highly soluble and amenable to heap leaching - historical column testwork recorded 72 per cent to 82 per cent copper recoveries with only moderate acid consumption, while the consistent, at-surface oxide blanket points to a scenario where the stripping ratio may end up being embarrassingly low.

Norfolk also looks to have put together a cast of people to develop Carmen with some serious horsepower, including Transcendences two directors Greive and Fowler. Both men will sit on the projects operational oversight committee and have been buying Norfolk shares.

When it comes to heap leaching operations, Fowler has been there and done that in his leadership role at Finders Resources, which operated the 20,000-tonne per annum Wetar copper heap leach project. He is also handy at passing the hat around, having put away $400 million in equity raises and a whopping $4 billion in debt as the chief financial officer of $9 billion miner Merdeka Copper Gold.

Grieve was recently Merdekas chief executive officer and has a calling card of mining majors he has worked with over about three decades, including Barrick Gold, Placer Dome, Rio Tinto, North Ltd and Evolution Mining. He was the general manager of Evolutions Cowal gold mine in New South Wales and chief operating officer at Red 5s King of The Hills operation and was instrumental in the greenfield development of both Cowal and King of the Hills.

Both Greive and Fowler appear to be taking more than just a passing interest in Norfolk  both pitched in to Julys oversubscribed $3.5 million capital raise for Norfolk and Transcendence. They may end up hanging around at the top of Norfolks share register, given Norfolk has an option to take out Transcendences final 30 per cent of Carmen using Norfolk stock as payment. Transcendence will also appoint a director to Norfolks board.

Norfolk and Transcendence have also pulled in Alex Raab as the projects general manager. Raab is well-placed to be overseeing drilling operations at Carmen given he was intimately involved in eking out more than 8 million ounces at the Challenger gold mine. He also has an arms length-long resume working in and around some of the most successful mining projects in Chile.

In combination, Raab, Fowler, Greive and Norfolks well-known Perth-based executive chairman Ben Phillips appear well-placed to realise Norfolks vision of a high-margin low capex heap leach operation at Carmen.

Phillips has another lucrative-looking plan that he says is only taking up partial focus - for now. Under Carmens oxide zone are a handful of historically drilled, potentially company-making copper hits of 69m at 1.37 per cent copper from 43m, including 24m at 2.15 per cent copper, 14m at 1.77 per cent copper and a 52m hit going 0.92 per cent copper from 66m.

The maiden campaign will see four wildcat holes sunk into the sulphide zone, which might provide a step change in excitement. This nicely rounds out Norfolks strategy to drill out the oxide zone, build a low-cost heap leaching operation and start printing cash, or alternatively, drill out the sulphide zone and use the cash from the heap leach operation to build a potential standalone mine if the sulphide numbers end up being real.

And unlike most maiden drill programs, with so much historic copper already discovered at this project it is difficult to think there will be many - or even any - dusters in this campaign.

Norfolk is also something of a freak structurally, with only 65 million shares currently on issue, about half of which are tightly held by its top 20. A further 15 million shares will be issued in September as part of the companys latest raise, leaving its register still incredibly tight at just 80 million shares. It has a very modest $10 million market cap too  and about half that amount in cash at bank.

It is now starting to make a bit of sense why Norfolks July capital raise was oversubscribed and why both Greive and Fowler are hitting their own wallets to buy up Norfolk shares. This could get interesting - and with the copper price starting to test recent highs in the past couple of months - it could get interesting quickly.

Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au
Its likely much will be said, but little done, at next weeks economic roundtable. With the budget expected to be in continuing deficit, Anthony Albanese wont be able to splash out. But much could be done to spread the costs of government more fairly.

While young people are being charged an astonishing $50,000 for an arts degree, its a little-noticed fact that the government is providing much of our natural gas to multinational companies free of charge.

Illustration by Simon Letch Credit:

Australia has become one of the worlds biggest exporters of gas in recent decades, up there with the United States and Qatar. The world price of gas jumped in February 2022 after Russias invasion of Ukraine.

The sad story of our misadventures in ensuring the nation benefits from the export of its gas is told in a report by the Australia Institute. To be exported, natural gas has to be liquified. Weve built 10 liquefaction plants, five in Western Australia, three in Queensland and two in the Northern Territory.
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 Chloe Adams debut novel, The Occupation, opens with a striking scene: in an elegant Collins Street foyer in 1949, two young women meet to discuss a deeply personal matter. Mary is newly returned from the reconstruction efforts in post-war Japan. Shes unwed and pregnant. Tess is about to ask her to give her the baby. Even more striking is the fact that none of this is fiction. It wasnt until Adams mother was an adult that she learnt her Aunt Mary was, in fact, her biological mother. About five or six years ago, I was having a conversation with my mum, and she told me about this moment where my adoptive grandmother and my biological grandmother met at this fancy hotel in Melbourne, and one of them was going to ask the other for the baby, Adams says. It feels like that scene is so alien to our world. The idea of asking another mum: Can I have your child? It says so much about how the world has changed in our lifetime. Adams was studying for a masters in creative writing when she heard the story and began exploring it for an exercise in class. While I was writing that, it dawned on me: Hang on. Mary was in Japan just before this, so let me ask a few more questions. Those questions ultimately led to an expansive novel that won Adams the prestigious Penguin Prize for 2024, published as this month marks the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima. Its a work that explores both world-shaking historical events and the most intimate of moments, weaving together historical facts and imaginative excursions. The Occupation is divided into two halves. The first is set in Kure, a town not far from Hiroshima, where Mary arrives to take up a position as a dental nurse for the occupying forces only to find herself saddled with a job in the barracks cafe instead. Adams captures the dissonance between Marys naive fantasies and the reality of post-war life through sharply rendered moments: drunken soldiers flirting and cavorting in hot springs, young lovers using the din of rain on a tin roof to cover up their antics, Aussies making handsome money selling imported goods on the grey market.

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All of these details play out against a backdrop that is admirably handled: the unimaginable devastation wrought on the peaceful seaside city of Hiroshima hangs over this section of the novel, but is hardly mentioned directly. It was important to not use someone elses suffering to prop up my book. Thats absolutely what I did not want to do. But on the other hand, (Hiroshima) was a place that most of these Australians at the time went to and so to not write about it would have been remiss of me as well. Finding the balance is hard. A key tenet in Japanese aesthetics is the notion that whats left out is as important as whats included, and in this way Adams conveys the colossal effect of nuclear fallout without resorting to lurid or ghoulish tactics. At some point, it came to me that what I needed to convey was that the Japanese characters dont necessarily want to share all of their trauma with the white people who turned up in their city. There should be some clear indication to the reader that Marys perspective of these peoples experiences may not actually be precisely what their experience is. This was also the case regarding the archaic attitudes many Australians held towards the Japanese survivors they were ostensibly there to help. Many of the letters and reports Adams came across during her research were marked by implicit or overt racism, and she grappled with how to approach that problem. I felt it was important to be careful with my words. I didnt use certain slurs and that kind of thing. Any racism in the book is really a symbolic gesture of what was really happening because the books that I read at that time were just so shocking that theyre unpublishable now.

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The Occupations second half details Marys life after returning to Melbourne and the complex relationships that emerge after she agrees to let Tess raise her baby. As with the scenes set in Japan, much of the writing here plays with the line between biography and invention. This is the sad part of the story. Mary spent a lot of time wanting to see my mum. At one point, she broke her foot and my adoptive grandmother invited Mary to come and live with them for a few months. So my mum has lots of strong memories from her childhood of spending time with Mary. But it wasnt until she was in her 30s that she discovered Aunt Mary was actually Mum Mary. TAKE 7: THE ANSWERS ACCORDING TO CHLOE ADAMS Worst habit? Excitedly talking over people in conversation. (I know, its the worst.) Greatest fear? Its impossible to isolate just one. Im a worrier from way back. The line that stayed with you? Tell all the truth but tell it slant by Emily Dickinson. In writing, we often talk about precision  but theres something about being adjacent to the truth, or edging towards it, that interests me even more. Biggest regret? Not insisting on care and kindness from previous romantic partners. Favourite book? The Transit of Venus by Shirley Hazzard. The artwork/song you wish was yours? Deeper Water by Paul Kelly. If you could time travel, where would you choose to go? The day I met my husband in our shared workplace, so I could go back and savour that moment better. Maybe Id also whisper to myself, see, its going to be okay, just six years of friendship to get through first. It might seem a big call to follow up the panoramic drama of post-war Japan with a close-up image of life in suburban Australia, but its astonishing how Adams manages to make this latter half of her tale even more emotionally gripping than the first. Those earlier chapters are where we get to know Marys inner life in great detail; its only later that we can plumb the maelstrom of emotion into which she finds herself thrown when impossible circumstances push her to make an unbearable choice. One of the reasons why I felt more and more passionate about telling this story was to give her a voice because with everything that unfolded in her life after that, it felt like she could never really escape the loneliness of that moment. Adams has a long history as a journalist and media producer, and some of that experience probably made its way into her debut novel. I do have a tendency to juxtapose the sweeping grand collective experience against personal experience. Go to any event, fire, flood, war, whatever, and a journalists job is not just to write about the collective experience, but also the personal experience. She finds it just as fruitful to allow space for the less analytic side of the creative mind during the writing process. Throughout The Occupation, there are subtle threads about lost children, not all of which were necessarily sewn into the narrative via conscious means.

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Date of Incident: June 26, 2025

Location of Incident: Two Banks Development Landfill, Haywood County, NC

Press Conference Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Time: 2:00 p.m. EST.

Location: Marriott City Center  Congressional Room

500 Fayetteville Street

Raleigh, NC 27601

Also available via Google Meet at the following link: meet.google.com/kmu-obxp-sct

RALEIGH, N.C., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Attorneys from Matheson & Associates, PLLC will hold a press conference on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, to address the events that occurred on June 26, 2025, in which truck drivers engaged in Hurricane Helene cleanup efforts were subjected to a racially charged assault at the Two Banks Development Landfill located in Haywood County, NC.

The purpose of the press conference is to introduce the victims involved in the incident, provide an update on the progress of the investigation and to announce the firm's intent to file a federal civil rights lawsuit against the individuals and entities believed to be responsible.

Media Attendance:

All members of the press are invited to attend the conference in person or remotely via Google Meet. A brief question and answer period will follow the conference for in-person attendees.

Media Contact:

Please send all further inquiries to:

 [email protected]

Please include your name, media organization, and contact details in your inquiry.

SOURCE Matheson & Associates PLLC
The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will head out of the city in 2026 to perform in locations around Melbourne and Victoria. There will be a world premiere at Broadmeadows Town Hall, regular outings in Frankston, and performances slated for Ringwood, Castlemaine, Sale and Cowes.

Its all part of a strategy to reach a broader audience, according to MSO chief executive and director of programming Richard Wigley. As part of that aim, the orchestra will not increase its ticket prices for the year ahead, which Wigley says is possible thanks to philanthropic support.

MSO musicians Aurora Henrich (double bass ), Wendy Clarke (flute), Nicolas Fleury (French horn ), William Clark (viola) and Elina Faskhi (cello). Credit: Simon Schluter

The former head of the BBC Philharmonic and the Ulster Orchestras, Wigley represents a new guard at the MSO, having taking the reins from Sophie Galaise, who left in the wake of the MSOs controversial decision to drop pianist Jayson Gillham from its line-up for dedicating a piece of music to the journalists slain in Gaza. Gillham is suing the MSO for wrongful dismissal and the case is scheduled for the Federal Court in December.

The MSOs plan to increase its accessibility extends into its programming choices for the coming year, which feature new commissions alongside contemporary works and evergreen favourites.
PROFESSOR T 

Trauma scrambles the senses. It transforms even the most lucid mind into a labyrinth. Of all the profound summations of the psychological response to traumatic events delivered by Professor Jasper Tempest (Ben Miller) to his Cambridge University students in this cerebral crime drama, this is perhaps the most relevant to the series.

Ben Miller as the eponymous Professor T. Credit:

Indeed, it is to be poignantly repeated. The professors backstory, tied to his imposing childhood home that stands empty at the end of a walled garden, looms as one such labyrinth too terrible to explore but which holds the keys to a liberating reckoning.

Making its Australian free-to-air debut, this enthralling 2021 British remake of Paul Piedforts Belgian series, the fourth season of which will stream on Britbox from August 28, takes the genius but socially flawed forensic criminologist and makes his complexities as intriguing as the episodic mysteries to be solved.
Childcare centres are not checking whether their staff are allowed to work with children before hiring, a NSW inquiry has been told.

The revelations of major breakdowns in the safety of 500,000 infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers were aired on Thursday as working with childrens checks were put under the microscope.

A facility of childcare giant G8 Education. Credit: The Age

Banned workers were allowed to continue working for years without oversight, the NSW parliamentary inquiry into childcare was told.

Inquiry chair Abigail Boyd said internal government documents showed dozens of workers were banned each year, but few childrens checks were cancelled.

In one case, an educator banned in 2019 was approved for a new check in 2021 and continued working up to 2023 before being stopped.

Nearly half of the banned staff reported to the Office of the Childrens Guardian over three years did not even have a check to cancel, Boyd said.

Acting Childrens Guardian Rachael Ward said the childcare regulator was not required to report which staff it has banned, to allow for checks to be cancelled.

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They havent broken any law by not sharing that information, Ward said.

Ward, in the role for five months, was unaware her office had only cancelled 21 checks of the 235 prohibited workers reported between 2021 and 2024.

The inquiry comes amid nationwide scrutiny on the regulation and safety of childcare after shocking reports of children allegedly being sexually abused, left restrained in high chairs for hours and receiving substandard meals.

G8 Education, the operator of a centre where Melbourne man Joshua Dale Brown allegedly abused children in his care, said in a submission that its staff were struggling emotionally while working through the fallout of the abuse revelations.

AAP
Palestinians based in Gaza have dismissed Australias plan to recognise Palestinian statehood, saying it does nothing to alleviate the conditions they face.

Three Gazans have spoken to this masthead since Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the announcement, and each expressed their disappointment at how little impact recognition has on their lives.

A group of Palestinians sit in the shade of their tent amid destroyed buildings on Tuesday. Credit: AP

It marks the first reactions to Albaneses historic decision from Gazans themselves, the people the move is professed to be helping, amid Israels ongoing bombardment and reported starvation of the population there. The United Nations on Tuesday warned that starvation and malnutrition in Gaza were at the highest levels since the war began.

Dr Ahmed, who asked for his surname to be withheld because of fears he could be targeted by the Israeli military, said the decision represented only ink on paper.
Queenslands Victims Commissioner has been ordered to attend a ministerial meeting to explain her role in the embattled domestic violence helpline DVConnect following a damning review into the service that she previously helmed, as tension between the Labor appointee and the LNP state government mounts.

Commissioner Beck OConnor broke her silence on Wednesday to defend her suitability to represent victim-survivors, as some critics called for her to step down after it was revealed DVConnect was struggling to answer calls from women in crisis.

OConnor said she had always followed governance standards during her five-year tenure with the helpline, a period she described as some of the most challenging conditions in the sectors history.

Victims Commissioner Beck OConnor. Credit: The Office of the Victims Commissioner

The DVConnect analysis, produced by consultants BDO and released by Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Amanda Camm last week, found only two in five calls were answered during its worst period  October last year  months after OConnor left the role.
No matter how theyve separated us, I will never stop loving you forever. Goodbye, my daughter, in the light of the angels. By midday, more than 170 people had flooded the comment section with condolence messages for the family. Most were written in Greek. Athena Georgopoulos and her partner, Andrew Gunn. The couple were expecting a baby. There are no words to ease the pain of a mother who loses her child! May God give you strength to bear this pain. The only certain thing is that your girl is in the arms of our Lord and Virgin Mary, one read. Petty, I saw your beautiful daughters face on the news last [night], and couldnt believe it. Life is sometimes not fair, but God always takes the good ones first. Sending you all the love and strength to get through this difficult time. We all love you very much and are here if you need us, read another.

Athena, 39, also known by friends as Tina, was five months pregnant with her first child, a daughter, when she was allegedly murdered alongside her partner, Andrew Gunn, 50, inside their Mount Waverley unit on Monday night in what police believe was a targeted attack. Neighbour Ben Scott-Sandvik was the first to find them dead. Nobody should have to come across what I saw down there, he told Nine News. Nobody needs to live knowing that this sort of thing has happened to their family. A sketch of Ross Judd, 34, as he appearing before Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Credit: Anita Lester The man accused of murdering them and beheading Gunn, 34-year-old Ross Judd, smiled and winked in court on Wednesday morning as he was told there would be delays in the case due to the complex crime scene left behind.

Judd, who has no fixed address, was arrested by officers at Westall train station in Clayton South, about six kilometres away from the crime scene, about 1.40am on Tuesday. He had two large dogs with him at the time. Video footage shows officers subduing and arresting a shoeless man dressed in a white short-sleeved T-shirt soaked in blood on a train station platform. The 34-year-old Judd sat in Melbourne Magistrates Court between two security officers, dressed in a black T-shirt. Stumbling as he entered the dock, Judd told security he was OK before taking a seat, winking at a sketch artist and smiling at members of the media. During the brief hearing, the prosecution asked for another 10 weeks to prepare the brief of evidence, noting there was a complex crime scene and the existence of significant DNA that needed to be processed by police.

The court heard the two autopsies would also be delayed, due to Georgopoulos being pregnant at the time of her death. I understand that causes delays, the prosecutor said. Police will also need to analyse CCTV images, present electronic items for analysis, and lodge exhibits with forensic services, the court heard. Defence lawyer Annie Allen agreed to the delay but noted it was her clients first time in custody. She also asked that he be seen by a custody nurse to follow up on his medication and physical health issues.

Magistrate Johanna Metcalf granted the extension of time and ordered Judd return to court in January. All right, Mr Judd, so I am remanding you to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on the 13th of January next year for a committal case conference hearing on that day, Metcalf said. There is no application for bail being made today, so you are remanded in custody. Do you understand all of that? Judd, with his arms crossed, replied: Yes, I do. In Mount Waverley, the Adrienne Crescent unit remained a crime scene on Wednesday afternoon, more than 36 hours after officers were called to the area. Forensic specialists wearing blue jumpsuits and gloves could be seen loading boxes into the back of a Toyota Hilux.

Friend Elisha Brown drops flowers off at the scene. Credit: Justin McManus Elisha Brown, a friend of Georgopoulos and Gunn, whom she called Morphy, laid a bouquet of sunflowers and a card emblazoned with a rainbow in front of the block of units. In shock with whats happened  lost for words ... thanks for the memories, the card read. She told reporters she had visited the couple just days before their deaths and that they were excited to have a child. Neither of them had had kids previously ... its sad, she said.

Brown said Georgopoulos always had a smiling face and was always cracking jokes. Gunn and his pet dog, a German shepherd called Dragon, were inseparable. Thats whats funny about this. Him and his dog went everywhere; his dog didnt like anyone near him, Brown said. Neighbour Bob Mortimer heard a dog barking the night of the alleged murders. Credit: Justin McManus The couples next-door neighbour, Bob Mortimer, often saw Gunn walking Dragon past his house. He used to walk past all the time walking his dog, and my dog would bark at him and I would just say hello, I didnt have much to do with him, Mortimer said.
An Ellenbrook teenager will spend his first night behind bars after his suspended sentence for coward-punching a fellow student was overturned on Wednesday.

The 14-year-old victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was at Ellenbrook Central with friends in April when he was struck from behind.

The 16-year-old boy avoided jail time for a vicious coward-punch attack in Ellenbrook in April. Credit: 9News Perth

The force of the punch caused him to hit the floor face first where he remained motionless for 20 seconds, and he was bleeding heavily from his mouth as he tried to get to his feet.

His 16-year-old attacker, who was 15 at the time of the attack and cannot be named due to his age, was confronted by shoppers and fled the scene.
Sticking with question time, and the topic has turned to WAs gun laws, with new regulations to be voted on in parliament.

Police Minister Reece Whitby gave an impassioned speech urging members of the crossbench to vote in support.

If you vote to disallow these regulations, if you do that, you undermine the very foundation of our new gun laws, he said.

It means that police will no longer be able to remove firearms in terms and circumstances of family and domestic violence, it means that police will no longer be able to remove firearms from criminal elements, outlaw gangs.

Theres a test on you, leader of the opposition, youve got the opportunity to stand up for your community.

Whitby struggled to get through his speech, with members of the Liberal and National party interjecting frequently and yelling over the top of him.

It comes as the WA Police and Consumer Protection issued a warning this afternoon that a series of deep fake videos portraying the new gun laws in a negative light were doing the rounds on social media.

A still from one of the deep fake videos online.

My message to everybody, when youre looking at these videos that are promoting a particular angle very passionately, or an argument, particularly a political argument, or if youve got videos that are promoting investment, or if someones trying to connect with you on a romantic level and then asking for money, your starting point in this day and age needs to be, this is fake, this is fake until I can prove this is true, Consumer Protection Commissioner Trish Blake said.
The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) denies the issuance of any statement by Sheikh Hassan Yousef, detained in occupation jails since October 19, 2023, on the Australian position regarding the recognition of the Palestinian state. We affirm that Sheikh Hassan Yousef is being held in poor conditions and is cut off from the outside world, with no means of communication. Albanese defended the governments stance, telling reporters in Brisbane on Wednesday: The Arab League have made it very clear that Hamas must lay down its weapons. The international community have made it very clear that Hamas will have no role in a future Palestinian state. The prime minister had told Channel Sevens Sunrise on Tuesday: Hamas will be totally opposed to this decision. Hamas dont support two states, they support one state. Senior Israeli politicians and the Coalition leapt upon Yousefs comments, saying they justified their warnings that Hamas would regard Palestinian recognition as a reward for terrorism.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar responded on social media by using a love heart emoji to say that Hamas loves Albanese. Deputy Israeli foreign minister Sharren Haskel, who spent eight years living in Australia, said: When terrorists celebrate your foreign policy, its a pretty disgraceful day for a great country like Australia. Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Michaelia Cash said that Albanese should hang his head in shame after being praised by Hamas. This is a sad day for our nation, she said.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley called for the government to rethink its decision to recognise Palestine, saying: Now prime minister, if youve got a listed terrorist organisation cheering on your foreign policy, it might be time to admit that you got it wrong. Labor cabinet member Amanda Rishworth responded to Yousefs comments by saying Hamas was behaving predictably by spreading self-serving propaganda. The focus of the governments diplomatic efforts was sidelining and excluding Hamas from any future Palestinian state, she told the ABC. Hamas fighters stormed into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1200 people, including the massacre of young people at the Nova music festival and elderly residents and children living in kibbutzes near the Gaza border. It was the worst mass murder of Jews in a single day since the Holocaust.

Loading Hamas, which has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007, also took around 250 people hostage, dozens of whom are believed to have died in captivity during the ensuing war. The incursion sparked a ferocious military response from Israel that has extended for almost two years and killed over 60,000 Palestinians. Australia listed Hamas, which has launched rocket attacks into Israel and carried out suicide bombings, as a terror organisation in 2022, joining the United States, United Kingdom and other countries. Asked whether Hamas believed its commitment to violence had encouraged countries like Australia to recognise Palestine, its co-founder Yousef said: Yes, we believe that the escalation of armed resistance, including the operations carried out on October 7, has significantly contributed to highlighting the suffering of the Palestinian people and the injustice they face. Resistance has proven to be an effective means to break the siege and bring the Palestinian cause back to the international discussion table.

Yousefs comments echo those of fellow Hamas official Ghazi Hamad, who last week said the wave of Western nations moving to recognise a Palestinian state was the result of the fruits of Hamas October 7 massacre. Hamas stated on August 2 that it would not disarm until a sovereign Palestinian state is created with its capital in Jerusalem, contradicting statements by US special envoy Steve Witkoff that Hamas was prepared to demilitarise to end the war in Gaza. A government spokesperson said: What Australia has done is contribute international momentum towards a two-state solution, which Hamas opposes. We are supporting the Arab Leagues efforts to isolate Hamas. A declaration by 22 Arab nations issued last month called for Hamas to lay down its weapons, release all remaining Israeli hostages and end its rule of the Gaza Strip in a major rebuke of the organisation.

The government spokesperson said Hamas always tries to manipulate facts for their own propaganda and that media outlets have a responsibility to make professional judgments to not promote propaganda of terrorist organisations to get cynical headlines. Former Labor frontbencher Mike Kelly, the co-convenor of Labor Friends of Israel, said he and others had warned that Hamas would seize upon Australian recognition of Palestine to justify its violent tactics. The West is being played like a fiddle by a ruthless terrorist organisation, he said. Kelly said Hamas refusal to disarm and determination to participate in elections showed Australia had extracted meaningless commitments from the Palestinian Authority. Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin said that Albanese had misunderstood Hamas worldview.

They feel like October 7 has worked perfectly and now brought them a step closer to total victory, he said. Western governments have unwittingly played along with Hamas vision of annihilation. Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council executive director Colin Rubenstein said: Hamas has been emboldened, just like we told the government it would be. The Australian National Imams Council said that Australian recognition of Palestine was long overdue, regardless of how Hamas or the Israeli government reacts. Comments by any group do not change the importance of the recognition and that it is in line with international law, United Nations resolutions, and the position of a growing number of nations around the world, the council said. Albanese has said an important factor in his recognition decision was Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas commitment to hold elections soon and the isolation and opposition to Hamas playing any role in a future Palestinian state.

Yousef, who was elected to the Palestinian parliament for Hamas in 2006, said the group would not consider any Palestinian elections legitimate unless it was included in the process. Loading We believe that elections must be inclusive of all Palestinian factions, and excluding Hamas means sidelining a large segment of Palestinians, he said. Yousef has been repeatedly arrested by Israel and accused of incitement, spending long stretches in jail without facing trial. One of his sons, Mosab Hassan Yousef, worked as a spy for Israels internal security agency before relocating to the US, where he has become a prominent critic of Hamas. In 2006, the most recent Palestinian elections, Hamas won 74 of 132 parliamentary seats and significantly outperformed Abbas more moderate Fatah party.
China implements zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries

15:32, August 13, 2025 By Liao Ruiling ( People's Daily

Visitors learn about African products at the fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, central China's Hunan province, June 14, 2025. (Photo/Lin Daohui)

On a quiet weekday afternoon in a Beijing coffee shop, customers savor their drinks, largely unaware of the extraordinary journey behind each bean.

Shop owner Zhang Xue sources most of her coffee beans from Rwanda, where high altitudes and sharp day-night temperature differences create ideal conditions for cultivation. The region's unique climate and soil produce beans with a distinctive fruity and floral fragrance.

"Imported coffee beans once served a niche market," Zhang notes. "Curiosity was high, but prices were steep. Now, with deepening China-Africa cooperation and tariff reforms, Rwandan beans have become accessible to everyday coffee lovers."

This change extends far beyond coffee. Across Chinese supermarkets, South African wines, Senegalese tuna, Kenyan avocados, and Beninese pineapples are now increasingly common, demonstrating the remarkable results of China's tariff adjustments for African products.

In recent years, China has steadily expanded market access for African countries. Effective from Dec. 1, 2024, China has granted zero-tariff treatment to all least developed countries (LDCs) with which it has diplomatic relations, including 33 African nations on 100 percent of their products.

Recently, China announced the extension of zero-tariff treatment to cover 100 percent of tariff lines for all 53 African countries that have diplomatic ties with China. Industry observers believe this move will foster deeper industrial collaboration, creating greater added value for both sides.

"The zero-tariff policy significantly reduces market entry barriers for African products, paving the way for higher export volumes and more diversified product categories," said Wang Jinjie, deputy secretary-general of the Peking University Center for African Studies.

Last year, China-Africa trade reached $295.6 billion, setting a record high for the fourth consecutive year, and marking the 16th consecutive year China has remained Africa's largest trading partner.

Since the launch of the zero-tariff policy through March this year, China's imports from African LDCs rose 15.2 percent year on year, reaching $21.42 billion. In the first quarter of this year, Chinese imports of African coffee surged by 70.4 percent, while cocoa bean imports rose by 56.8 percent.

Unlike reciprocal free-trade models requiring complex negotiations, China's approach offers unilateral, equal market access to all African partners. "Combined with streamlined customs procedures," Wang adds, "this institutional innovation aligns with Africa's aspirations for fair global trade participation."

African nations differ widely in geography, resource endowments, and economic structures. Kenya, for example, is a major flower exporter, Tanzania is known for its cashews and sisal, and South Africa, one of Africa's most economically developed countries, maintains a relatively complete industrial system with relatively mature industries such as mining and agriculture.

According to Zhang Chuanhong, a professor at the College of Humanities and Development Studies at China Agricultural University, whether resource-rich, agriculture-based, or industrially underdeveloped, African countries can leverage the zero-tariff policy to boost exports, develop their industrial and value chains, and accelerate local economic growth.

China further supports Africa through industrial capacity building. Tang Wenhong, assistant minister of commerce, noted that Chinese enterprises are investing in and building economic and trade parks across Africa, promoting industrial collaboration, and contributing to local tax revenues, employment, and export earnings.

In Egypt, the China-Egypt Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone built by Chinese companies has formed clusters in textiles, glass, building materials, and home appliances, serving as a model for African industrialization.

In Tanzania, the East Africa Commercial and Logistics Center built by Chinese enterprises has attracted over 430 small and medium-sized enterprises. Once fully operational, it is expected to create more than 20,000 local jobs.

In Zambia, the Zambia-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone developed by Chinese companies is building a complete copper industry chain, from copper mining to smelting and processing, helping Africa raise the added value of mineral products.

China will continue to take African partners' specific conditions and needs into account, pursuing a flexible and pragmatic approach in negotiations on areas such as trade facilitation, inclusive growth, resilient supply chains, and industrial modernization, said an official with the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

China aims to enter into agreements that comply with World Trade Organization rules and serve the interests of both sides as early as possible, ultimately achieving zero tariffs on 100 percent of tariff lines, the official added. Leveraging the advantages of its vast market and the progress of Chinese modernization, China aims to create more opportunities for African countries and support their participation in global trade on more equal terms.

Chinese and foreign exhibitors exchange views at the fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, central China's Hunan province, June 14, 2025. (Photo/Lin Daohui)

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Wu Chaolan)
Tweddle Group received awards in three categories: the Top Workplaces Industry Award for Technology, the USA Today Top Workplaces Award and Cultural Excellence: Work-Life Flexibility





Today Top Workplaces Award and Cultural Excellence: Work-Life Flexibility These awards mark the fourth consecutive year Tweddle Group has been recognized as a Top Workplace





Winners selected based on analysis of employee feedback

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tweddle Group has been named a 2025 Top Workplaces award recipient. The recognition comes from Energage, an organization that has spent nearly two decades highlighting businesses that foster exceptional workplace culture. Energage evaluates organizations nationwide and across more than 60 regional markets, ranking companies according to employee feedback.

The 2025 honor distinguishes Tweddle Group as a leading employer in the Technology sector, earning recognition for its culture, values and employee engagement.

Tweddle Group has been named a 2025 Top Workplaces award recipient for its culture, values and employee engagement. Post this Tweddle Group celebrates its latest round of Top Workplace award wins.

Tweddle Group representatives say the awards affirm the company's reputation as a people-first organization.

"We're honored," said Tweddle Group President Todd Headlee. "It validates what we already know, which is that our people are outstanding. They bring passion and ingenuity to their work every day. Tweddle Group has a long legacy of innovation, and our teams keep us moving forward."

Headlee emphasized that Tweddle Group's employees express the company culture in how they collaborate, support customers and continue to grow. "We're a values-driven organization that believes in doing great work, and doing it with integrity," he said.

This marks the fourth consecutive year Tweddle Group has received Top Workplaces recognition.

Top Workplaces gathers feedback through research-backed employee engagement surveys. To learn more about Top Workplaces, visit TopWorkplaces.com.

About Tweddle Group

Tweddle Group, a division of CJK Group, Inc., believes products should be easy to use, and delivers integrated, multi-channel information solutions to support every aspect of the post-sale experiencefor product managers, technicians andmost of allconsumers. For more information, visit www.tweddle.com.

Media Contact:

Lisa Ekstrom, Tweddle Group Director of Marketing and Design

[email protected]

SOURCE Tweddle Group
London: European leaders have aired a potential deal to halt the war in Ukraine under plans to be put to Russian leader Vladimir Putin in talks with US President Donald Trump on Friday, signalling a negotiation over territory as long as a ceasefire comes first.

The proposal emerged from an online meeting to set the terms for the talks on Friday, amid European concerns that Trump will trade away territory at his summit with Putin without pushing hard enough for an end to the hostilities and guarantees over future security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the meeting, which included Trump as well as every major European leader, that Putin was bluffing about his desire for peace and should be subjected to escalating economic sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the end of a joint press conference at the Chancellery following a virtual meeting hosted by Merz between European leaders and US President Donald Trump in Berlin, Germany. Credit: Getty Images

Trump described the call as very friendly and later appeared to harden his message to Putin by threatening very severe consequences for Russia if it did not agree to a peace deal, but he offered no detail about what this would mean.
For this reason, when Washington and Moscow were exploring a deal that would bring about a ceasefire if Ukraine were to withdraw its troops from the Donbas regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, Zelensky was forced to speak out very loudly against it. Ukrainian military recruits train in a sunflower field in the Zaporizhzhia region on Monday. Credit: Ukraines 65th Mechanized Brigade/AP Militarily, the Ukrainian president would have got nothing in return, other than a halt to the fighting, while Russia would have been allowed to bypass some of Ukraines stiffest defences for free. Ukrainian medics of Da Vinci Wolves Battalion treat their injured comrades near Pokrovsk on Sunday. Credit: AP There was some talk of Russian forces being made to withdraw from the northern region of Sumy and neighbouring Kharkiv. This strategy, according to Jaroslava Barbieri, a research fellow at Chatham Houses Ukraine Forum, was designed by Putin to position Zelensky as the main blockage to peace in Trumps eyes.

Id say in demanding swaths of Ukrainian territory as part of a peace deal, Putin is aware the condition is unacceptable for most Ukrainians, Barbieri said. Rejecting the offer could portray Ukraines position as uncooperative and ungrateful to Trumps peace-brokering efforts, she added. Barbieri said: It could drive a wedge between Trump and European allies, who have reiterated the importance of preserving Ukraines sovereignty. And ... potentially destabilise Ukrainian society by mobilising grievances among the minority who are willing to accept concessions to end the war.

Polling by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology released in June found that just 38 per cent of Ukrainians were willing to accept territorial losses in order to achieve peace as soon as possible and preserve independence. Ukrainian soldiers fire at Russian drones in the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine on Sunday. Credit: AP In comparison, 52 per cent said they were firmly against ceding land even if this makes the war last longer. But Zelensky has accepted that some form of cession of territory will be necessary to end the war. Without it, hed be likely to lose US support, and eventually, European allies would start to fade away. Firefighters put out a blaze after a Russian drone hit the market in the Donetsk town of Druzhkivka on August 2. Credit: Ukraines 24th Mechanised Brigade press service/AP

Trump declared on Monday that there will be some swapping, some changes to land. Sources have told Britains Daily Telegraph that Zelensky could be ready to stop fighting, freeze the front line and hand over de facto control of territories occupied by Russian forces to Moscow as part of any settlement. These include swaths of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson and Crimea. Volodymyr Zelensky has not been invited to the meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska. Credit: Bloomberg Trump added: Were going to try to get some of that territory back for Ukraine. The key to Zelensky managing the process and selling it back to his public will be in the language. De jure recognition of Russias control would require a referendum and would be likely to stoke tensions in the population, enough to hurt Zelensky at the ballot box in any future election.

Agreeing to de facto control, which is not legally recognised, in acceptance of the temporary reality of the situation on the ground is more likely. Loading One possibility for this being discussed among war-watchers would be to replicate the Sino-British Joint Declaration signed between China and the United Kingdom to decide on Hong Kongs future. In that deal, London returned sovereignty to Beijing in 1997, but under the condition that it would maintain Hong Kongs special status for 50 years. Could Ukraine and Russia agree to recognise that the Donbas regions are legally Ukrainian but managed as if they belonged to Moscow for a set period of time? That would be likely to settle Zelenskys referendum problem by kicking any real decision into the long grass. The bloodshed would stop and the line in the sand would be drawn  for now. However, Moscow would use the time to sow anti-Ukrainian sentiment in the region, with the intention of making its eventual return almost impossible and unpalatable for Ukrainians, who have all lost a father, brother or friend in the war.

Whatever the proposal, it would appear that Putin has covertly edged closer to one of his war aims by leaving Zelensky with a decision that will shape his future as president. And he has put the spotlight back on Ukraines leader. Loading Trump cut through the public protestations on Monday. The US president said: I was a little bothered by the fact that Zelensky was saying: Well, I have to get constitutional approval. I mean, hes got approval to go into war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap? The final representations will be made by Zelensky and other European leaders in a video call with Trump on Wednesday (US time). Forty-eight hours later, Putin will arrive in Alaska. Telegraph, London
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) has a long-standing policy priority of advocating for Canadian softwood lumber imports. This is despite a well-established record resulting from numerous and exhaustive investigations by the U.S. Department of Commerce that Canada is dumping its lumber into the U.S. market and enjoys harmful and distortive subsidies -- which boosts the Canadian industry at the expense of U.S. industry and workers.

Components of the Price of a New Home, 2024 (PRNewsfoto/The U.S. Lumber Coalition)

NAHB maintains its constant drumbeat of support for the unrestrained importation of unfairly traded Canadian lumber despite an equally well-established record that these Canadian imports cause material harm to the U.S. lumber industry and its workers, as repeatedly confirmed through exhaustive investigations and findings by the U.S. International Trade Commission.

"NAHB's unyielding support for the Canadian softwood lumber industry, which benefits from dozens of unfair subsidies and dumps its product at the direct expense of U.S. softwood lumber producers and workers raises questions regarding the organization's motivation. Past NAHB statements would seem to endorse the market disrupting and price suppressing effects of unfair trade. Considering the long-term detrimental impact on U.S. softwood lumber production, and the resulting negative impacts on our country's overall lumber supply, it seems like a very short-sighted policy priority," stated Zoltan van Heyningen, Executive Director of the U.S. Lumber Coalition. He added, "in order to advocate for the Canadian softwood lumber industry and Canadian workers, NAHB seems willing to knowingly peddle unfounded scare tactics and claims as it fights against President Trump's America First trade law enforcement priorities."

"We often use NAHB's own analysis to push back on some of the ridiculous claims that the organization makes in its advocacy for Canadian lumber companies and workers. For example, NAHB's own 'Priced Out' analysis suggests that large increases in homebuilder profits during certain periods actually resulted in more than 4.7 million American households being priced out of the market for a median-priced new home," stated van Heyningen. See study: High Homebuilder Profits Have Priced Millions Out of the U.S. Housing Market.

"Instead of pushing a flawed analysis that could, in fact, shed a bad light on its own members, NAHB should support the enforcement of U.S. trade laws against unfairly traded Canadian lumber imports as this enforcement has boosted U.S. lumber production by over 30 billion board feet after the addition of close to 9 billion board feet of U.S. production capacity since 2016," added van Heyningen.

"The Canadian industry and Canadian talking heads advocating for the Canadian industry are more than happy to parrot NAHB's misleading and false claims regarding the impact of trade law enforcement on housing affordability. It is nothing more than an unfounded scare tactic to attack President Trump's America First focus on trade law enforcement. That self-interested approach does not change the fact that continued full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws will strengthen domestic supply lines by maximizing long-term domestic production and lumber availability produced by U.S. workers to build U.S. homes," concluded van Heyningen.

More Information

U.S. lumber industry and workers sent a letter to President Trump on the need for continued strong enforcement of the U.S. trade laws to keep expanding U.S. lumber manufacturing and availability to build more American homes with American lumber. https://uslumbercoalition.org/story/u-s-lumber-industry-and-workers-letter-to-president-trump/

Enforcing U.S. trade laws helps increase the U.S. supply of lumber to build American homes, all without impacting the cost of a new home, as demonstrated by data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Fastmarkets Random Lengths.

About the U.S. Lumber Coalition

The U.S. Lumber Coalition is an alliance of large and small softwood lumber producers from around the country, joined by their employees and woodland owners, working to address Canada's unfair lumber trade practices. Our goal is to serve as the voice of the American lumber community and effectively address Canada's unfair softwood lumber trade practices. The Coalition supports the full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws to allow the U.S. industry to invest and grow to its natural size without being impaired by unfairly traded imports. Continued full enforcement of the U.S. trade laws will strengthen domestic supply lines by maximizing long-term domestic production and lumber availability produced by U.S. workers to build U.S. homes. For more information, please visit the Coalition's website at www.uslumbercoalition.org.

CONTACT: Zoltan van Heyningen

[email protected] | 202-805-9133

SOURCE U.S. Lumber Coalition
Its finally here - the 2026 Kia Tasman dual-cab ute has arrived in Australia, almost a year after it was unveiled to mixed reactions over its polarising looks. From pricing to safety, here's what you need to know.

In a mature market segment dominated by established brands like Ford, Toyota and Isuzu, the Kia Tasman needed to do something different. Kias designers went bold with the all-new Tasman, creating a bulky, boxy ute that Australian Kia executives will tell you grows on you the more you see it on the road.

Is it ugly? Not to this reviewer, but debate over its design may well overshadow what is actually a very capable ute.

Kia has a lot of work to do to establish the Tasman ute in a market where the Ford Ranger is technically excellent, the Toyota HiLux is rugged and dependable and the Isuzu D-Max represents good value buying. Kia has lofty sales targets to meet too, one third of all Tasman global production is being sent here, so the local arm needs to shift 20,000 units a year. Last year. that would have put it in fourth place, but this year, it also needs to compete with the new BYD Shark 6 PHEV ute which has come out of the gates strong and has itself found a place on over 11,000 driveways so far this year.

And more Chinese disruptor brands have set their sights at Australia's buyers. Utes from brands including GWM, JAC and soon MG are all here, or landing soon, with the brands keen to strengthen their footholds in the market.

So, has the Kia Tasman got what it takes to challenge the old guard and fend off the new? Heres our first impression of the top-spec 2026 Kia Tasman X-Pro.

More: Australia's best utes
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By Cate McCurry, PA

Racist attacks in Ireland have intensified in recent months, with teenagers and young people perpetrating the majority of incidents, the special rapporteur on racial equality has said.

Dr Ebun Joseph, chief executive of the Institute of Antiracism and Black Studies, who is also the special rapporteur for the National Plan Against Racism, said that a rise in incidents of crime involving members of minority communities is becoming a national crisis.

Recent attacks on members of the Indian community have been widely condemned.

People take part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

The Ireland India Council believes there is an organised social media campaign against the Indian community in Ireland and the number of violent attacks has intensified since January this year.

A large crowd gathered outside the Department of the Taoiseach on Wednesday for a silent assembly in support of migrant workers.

Dr Joseph said that racism and racial crime is not a new thing in Ireland.

Its been there. The black community, the Roma community, the new Traveller community have experienced racism in Ireland for years, she said.

This is not a new fight but in the last few months it has intensified. What is scary is that right now we have teenagers actually perpetrating these acts.

Young people are being made to think that violence against another person because of the colour of their skin or where they are from or their accent, that to feel that is right to do is a major problem. This is national crisis.

A protester taking part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

Shashank Chakerwarti, of Desi Community Against Racism, said the protest also honours the dignity of victims of racist attacks.

Another person was severely lacerated on his eyebrow just yesterday. His brow was cut into two pieces. Images of that sends chills down your body.

We want to send a clear message to the Taoiseach (Micheal Martin) that you need to control this teenage violence and criminal activity that is going on in Dublin.

Theres been a lot of content directly taken from the UK narrative, of migrants coming to Ireland via boats, but that is not the case.

The far right are using that narrative and are applying it here which is completely incorrect.

There is a severe frustration that some individuals are feeling, especially in deprived communities and areas where you dont see a lot of investment and local services.

They feel that third country people are taking their jobs and houses, but that is not the case at all.

He also called for the Government to introduce a campaign to encourage people to report hate crimes.

We need to (educate) people on how to report racist crime, but there is no direct engagement with communities about this, he added.

People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy was among those to take part in the protest.

He said it is important to take a stand against racist violence.

What we have seen on our streets over the past number of weeks is Indian people and others targeted with violent attacks because of the colour of their skin and where they are perceived to come from, he said.

People take part in a silent assembly for migrant workers and their families outside the Department of the Taoiseach in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

We need to push back against those who are pushing the racist lies and propaganda which is creating an environment where these attacks are taking place.

Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore said that racism has crept into Irish society.

We are at the point now where it is quite normalised for people to be racist in what they say on social media, the Wicklow TD added.

It is important we have events and days like these where we stand and say this is not okay, it is not acceptable for racist attacks.

There are racist elements who are allowed to say what they want without any come back.

Our health system would collapse without many migrant communities and having that conversation of the value of migrants and also reflect on Irish people who have been migrants, its something Irish people are very familiar with.
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Iranian domestic cement demand contracted 7.9 per cent YoY to 4.691Mt in July 2025, down from 5.091Mt a year earlier, according to the Iranian cement association.

Producers manufactured 4.713Mt of cement an 11.4 per cent YoY decrease, while clinker production rose 22.5 per cent YoY to 6.313Mt.



Cement exports nudged up 1.4 per cent YoY to 499,065t, while clinker exports dropped 10.8 per cent YoY to 506,351t.



January-July 2025

In the first seven months of 2025, cement consumption in Iran contracted 7.3 per cent to 34.559Mt, from 37.261Mt in the same period of 2024.



Cement production totalled 37.765Mt, down 3.7 per cent YoY from 39.234Mt in 7M24. Clinker production was 43.035Mt, slipping 0.2 per cent YoY from 43.108Mt.



Cumulative cement exports amounted to 3.369Mt in January-July 2025, up 4.6 per cent YoY from 3.220Mt in the same period of 2024, while clinker exports were down 20.6 per cent YoY to 3.533Mt from 4.449Mt.



Lingering problems in the housing market and difficult economic conditions are weighing on demand. Meanwhile, government stipulated limits on cement production, stemming from power supply concerns, have weighed on output. Regional tensions have posed a further risk with a cement plant jointly operated by Lucky Cement and the UAE-based Al-Shumookh Group, under the name of Najamat Al-Samawah, reportedly hit by a drone attack in June, though no significant damage was recorded. The plant has a cement capacity of 1.82Mta after new expansion came online in May.
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Singapore-headquartered International Cement Group Ltd (ICG) has reported a sharp rise in earnings for the six months ended 30 June 2025, boosted by strong sales in Kazakhstan and Tajikistan and contributions from its new Korcem plant.

Revenue rose 51 per cent to SGD165.1m (US$122.7m) from SGD109.6m YoY in the 1H24, driven by higher sales from the Alacem plant in Kazakhstan and the Mohir plant in Tajikistan, as well as Korcem, which has been operational for six months.

Gross profit climbed 74 per cent to SGD59.3m, with gross margin improving to 36 per cent from 31 per cent YoY. EBITDA nearly doubled to SGD45.9m while profit before tax more than tripled to SGD31.6m. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose to SGD14.9m from SGD0.9m.

The company cited higher selling prices, strong market demand supported by Chinese infrastructure investment, and cooperation with the Kazakh government on national development projects as key factors. Sales volumes in Tajikistan rose 36 per cent on improved weather conditions.

Administrative expenses increased by SGD3.1m due to higher staff costs and depreciation at Korcem, while selling and distribution expenses rose slightly. Other expenses fell SGD4.3m on the absence of foreign exchange losses recorded last year, while other income jumped to SGD5.2m, supported by SGD10.5m in net foreign exchange gains from a stronger tenge.

Cash generated from operations doubled to SGD40.1m, lifting cash reserves to SGD9.9m at end-June.

Chief executive, Zhang Zengtao, said ICG is positioned to benefit from sustained infrastructure demand in central Asia, with exports from Korcem to Kyrgyzstan already underway. The company is scaling down non-core aluminium operations to focus on cement.
A Georgia Northwestern Technical College student credits GNTC with helping her build a better future by helping her complete her High School Equivalency, obtain a college degree and find success in the banking industry.Brittney Elrod expects to complete her associate degree in business management, with a specialization in operations management, online at GNTC in spring 2026. She is the banking center manager at First Financial Bank in Flintstone.I found a second chance through the Adult Education program at GNTC, Ms.Elrod said, adding that she attended classes at GNTCs Walker County Campus in Rock Spring. With the staffs incredible support, I was able to earn my High School Equivalency in record time in 2006."Ms. Elrod, a Ringgold resident, grew up in Walker County and dropped out of high school in 2005 to care for her child. Now a mother of three daughtersages 19, 17 and 12, she said they are the reason behind everything she does.About 10 years ago, the clinic where she worked eliminated her position, so she accepted a job as a teller at a large financial institution. She said she was unsure and a little scared to step into something so new, but her leap of faith turned out to be one of the best decisions of her life.Banking wasnt something I originally set out to do, she said. What started as a job quickly grew into a passion, and ultimately a fulfilling career. I havent looked back since.She gained valuable experience in that position, but eventually realized that she missed the human connections, she said.About four and a half years ago, I made a purposeful decision to take a step back and join a small community bank as a teller, embracing the opportunity to reconnect with customers on a more personal level, she said. That role placed me on the front lines of customer service and reminded me of the importance of meaningful interactions.She later shifted into a customer service representative position. When her bank was acquired by First Financial Bank last year, she accepted a new role as senior customer service representative; the hybrid position combined the responsibilities of head teller and assistant branch manager, she said.This role has allowed me to expand my leadership skills while continuing to provide the personalized service that initially drew me back to community banking, she said. One of the most valuable lessons I gained in that role was learning how to set the tone as a leader and influence the workplace culture in a positive way.In December, after four years at the banks Ringgold location, she accepted her current positionan opportunity that has allowed her to continue growing as a leader and deepened her impact within the organization and community.Nearly 20 years after earning her HSE, Ms. Elrod decided to do something for herself, losing 40 pounds and returning to GNTC.Ms. Elrod initially enrolled in the Business Management certificate program in Spring 2024, but was persuaded by Leyner Argueta, program director and instructor of business management at GNTC, to pursue an associate degree in business management.Mr. Argueta played a pivotal role in encouraging me and reminding me that I can do this, she said.One of the areas in which she has experienced the most growth has been "emotional intelligence."Emotional intelligence is a subject Ive developed a real passion for, yet its often overlooked in both education and the workplace, Ms. Elrod said. Thats why Im especially grateful to see that GNTC is now offering a course specifically focused on emotional intelligence. Its a much-needed addition to the curriculum and a powerful step toward building stronger, more empathetic leaders.While Ive always considered myself someone who works well with others, it was the coursework in Mr. Arguetas team project class that truly helped me sharpen a skill set I didnt even realize I needed, she said. The structure of the class and the collaborative environment not only challenged me, but also revealed strengths I hadnt fully tapped into before.Through her coursework at GNTC, she has gained a deeper understanding of various leadership styles and the different approaches when working with or managing a team. Ms. Elrod said the lessons not only boosted her self-confidence, but also gave her practical tools she can apply in real-world leadership situations.Brittney has worked hard to apply her studies at GNTC to her role in banking, said Jen Edly, Human Resources strategies officer at First Financial Bank. Shes always been focused on protecting the organization, while serving clients with a determination to get them whats needed. More recently, shes leveraged her studies in leadership to grow into her newer responsibilities as a banking center manager.Mr. Argueta described Elrod as an exceptional student and a shining example of what the Business Management program strives to achieve.Brittney has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in every class shes taken, Mr. Argueta said. He observed that she represents herself well and praised her commitment, professionalism and drive.Ms. Elrod is among the Leadership Catoosa class that raised funds to accommodate the needs of the Catoosa County Childrens Dental Fund. As a participant in the Leadership Catoosa program, her class was tasked with finding a meaningful service project.Our decision became clear when we learned approximately 35 to 40 high school seniors in our area do not have a parent or guardian, Mr. Elrod said. One of the greatest challenges these students face is access to basic dental care.Current funding would not meet the dental needs for the 2025 graduating class, she said.Motivated by this gap, our class committed not only to fundraising, but also to raising long-term awareness to ensure support continues well beyond our time in the Leadership Catoosa program, Ms. Elrod said. At the time, only one local dentist consistently provided care to these students.The group organized spirit nights at local restaurants, held fundraising sales and collected direct donations to raise $10,000. The group also recruited five additional local dentists willing to serve that underserved population, and the group has been in talks with a local manufacturer to offer dental services to children through the companys on-site facilities.While the details are still being finalized, this partnership represents a lasting impact of our project and a hopeful future for these students, Ms. Elrod said.It has been a pleasure to watch Brittney become empowered by educating herself about her community, said Amy L. Jackson, president and chief executive officer of the Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce. She was a leader in her 2024-25 Leadership Catoosa class and has also taken a leadership role in the Fort Oglethorpe Kiwanis Club that serves Walker and Catoosa Counties.Brittney puts maximum effort to make a positive impact to meet needs in our area, Ms. Jackson said. She connects with business owners and leaders, community members and elected officials to make a difference in the lives of others.In addition to graduating from the Leadership Catoosa program, Ms. Elrod is a member of the Catoosa Young Professionals group, a Walker County Chamber of Commerce ambassador and a board membernow transitioning into the role of president-electfor the Fort Oglethorpe Kiwanis Club.Brittney has a way of relentlessly pursuing her dreams and goals, which she has successfully done by being adaptable and open to feedback, Ms. Edly said. She has a thirst for knowledge and a genuine desire to help and serve others. She has a lot of passion for her work and for those she cares about, and she has a great way of channeling that passion into meaningful impact to those around her.
Paramedic alumni and Emergency Medical Services instructors from Cleveland State Community College gathered during the Paramedic Alumni Celebration on last Tuesday.Alumni and their families, along with college faculty and staff, gathered to celebrate 10 years of the paramedic program at the college.
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On Aug. 21, Chattanooga Zoo president and CEO Dardenelle Long will celebrate her 40th anniversary of service at the Zoo. Ms. Long started as a zookeeper in 1985, working alongside only one other employee who was primarily a groundskeeper. Ms. Long became zoo supervisor in the mid-1990s and zoo director later in the decade. She became president and CEO in 2010 and has led the zoo through the journeys of AZA accreditation (Association of Zoos and Aquariums), expansion from one and a half to 14 acres and many other key milestones like opening the new Cape of Africa section last summer.

I never envisioned the Zoo growing so much and coming so far, said Ms.



Friends of the Zoo (FOZ)  the nonprofit organization that manages Chattanooga Zoo  is also celebrating its 40-year anniversary. FOZ was created in 1985 to improve all facets of the Zoo, fundraise and strategically plan the Zoos long-term future. Following its formation, Chattanooga Zoo would go on to achieve AZA accreditation in 1998 and open a series of new Zoo sections like Gombe Forest, the Himalayan Passage and Corcovado Jungle featuring chimpanzees, red pandas, snow leopards, jaguars, spider monkeys and many other species from around the globe.



On Aug. 21, starting at 10 a.m., the zoo will honor both Darde Long and Friends of the Zoo with a ceremony under Mimis Pavilion. This special celebration is open to the public and will feature a presentation including representatives from the state of Tennessee, the City of Chattanooga, FOZ and others. Additionally, Aug. 21 has been recognized as Darde Long and Friends of the Zoo Day in both the state of Tennessee and the city of Chattanooga.



Those who know me well know that I typically shy away from attention, said Ms. Long. However, I am thrilled to join our community in celebrating Friends of the Zoo. Their steadfast commitment and dedication have been instrumental in our growth, and I welcome the opportunity to acknowledge their partnership.

After the program concludes, guests will enjoy ambassador animal meet and greets, refreshments, giveaways and a display with relics from the zoos past.

While anyone is welcome to attend the 40-year celebration, guests will still need to purchase general admission zoo tickets to enter the zoo. This event will bear no extra cost for Chattanooga Zoo members.


photo by HCSO photo by HCSO photo by HCSO photo by HCSO photo by HCSO photo by HCSO Previous Next

Several storms and flash flooding affected parts of Hamilton County, resulting in a state of emergency being declared in Hamilton County.

The Hamilton County Sheriffs Office Swiftwater Rescue Team, comprised of deputies and personnel from Emergency Management (HCEMA), joined with Swiftwater Rescue technicians with the Catoosa County Fire Department and East Ridge Fire and Police personnel to rescue the Maxwell Road residents trapped by rising flood waters.

The occupants of three houses were not able to leave their homes due to the flooding, and swiftwater rescue personnel helped assist them into inflatable boats to safety.

The Hamilton County Sheriffs Office Swiftwater Rescue Team was recently created to respond to water-related emergencies throughout Hamilton County and regionally.
Georgia Northwestern Technical Colleges (GNTC) Accelerated Academy speeds up the pace at which students can earn their High School Equivalency (HSE).

19 students graduated from GNTCs first Accelerated Academy class. The class, which lasted three days, provided meals and snacks, HSE instruction, practice tests and testingall for free.

I have a son on the way and wanted to finish the HSE program quickly so that I could graduate and get a better job to support my family, Donovan Evans said.

He and his brother, Tristan, learned about the program through a colleague of their mothers and decided to complete the program together. They both reside in Cartersville.

Donovan Evans, 24, said he dropped out of high school in his junior year because he had memory retention issues resulting from a brain injury. He characterized the three-day program as scary at first but is glad he completed it. He is now looking at attending college and aspires to become an architect.

Tristan Evans, 21, said he left high school after his sophomore year during the COVID-19 pandemic when his grades declined because of challenges managing the online programs, so he opted to drop out of school rather than fail his courses. He has attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

I typically work six days a week. The shorter time period the Accelerated Academy offers allowed me to complete the program without missing a lot of work, he said.

The brothers said they appreciate the support from GNTCs Adult Education faculty and staff and acknowledged that the classes and online study resources helped them to prepare for the exams.

Tristan Evans earned the highest score in Social Studiesas well as the highest combined score in Math, Reading, Science and Social Studiesfor all 2025 Academic Year graduates earning their HSE.

Now that Ive obtained my HSE, Im exploring college options for a Computer Science degree, possibly with video game design as the primary focus, Tristan Evans said, adding that in the near future hes considering a PC Repair and Network Technician certificate to gain practical experience that could lead to a career in the field.

This program underscores the reality that thousands of Georgians are ready to pursue their high school credential, but they require flexible pathways to do so, Dr. Cayanna Good, assistant commissioner of Adult Education for the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), explained. Our responsibility is to ensure that all adult learners, regardless of their starting point, have access to the resources and program structures that meet their individual needs. Flexibility in course offerings is essential to fulfilling that mission.

Some students need an accelerated program with intensive instruction and immediate testing, while others require more time and support due to various personal and academic factors, Dr. Good said.

The traditional Adult Education classes available across the state are a great resource but are not always a feasible option for everyone, said Carla DeBose, Professional Development and Family Literacy director at the TCSG Office of Adult Education. Many adults are balancing demanding jobs, raising children and managing the day-to-day responsibilities of life. For them, committing to weeks or months of classes just isnt realistic.

Characterizing the three day program as a game-changer, Ms. DeBose said it opens the door for people who might otherwise feel that completing their education is out of reach. The beauty of the program is that it doesnt end there; if a participant doesnt earn the full credential over the weekend, Adult Education programs are ready and equipped to step in and provide continued support, instruction and other pathways to success. Its all about meeting people where they are and helping them move forward on their terms.

A significant group of learners are capable of succeeding with an accelerated, focused model, instead of multiple weeks or months of instruction, Dr. Good said.

The results speak for themselves, said Lisa Shaw, vice president of Adult Education at GNTC. Nineteen participants arrived on a Thursday without their HSE and left that Saturday as graduates, putting them on the path to better job opportunities, higher education and a stronger future.

Dr. Good said she learned about the accelerated approach at a Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) presentation.

I found it to be an incredibly innovative approach and challenged our system office team to adapt the model for Georgia, Dr. Good said.

The Technical College System of Georgia asked Athens Technical College, Central Georgia Technical College, Coastal Pines Technical College, Georgia Northwestern Technical College and Southern Regional Technical College to participate in the pilot program for the Accelerated Academy, DeBose said.

GNTCs program is funded by the GNTC Foundation and an Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) grant and is offered at GNTCs Floyd County Campus in Rome and Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton, Ms. Shaw said.

Participants take a practice test with a required minimum score in Language Arts, Math and Reading to determine their eligibility to take the Accelerated Academy, Ms. Shaw said.

We had a wide range of participants varying in ages from 18 to 55, each with a unique story, Ms. Shaw said. This program is for anyone who qualifies regardless of where they left off or how long they have been out of school.

The fast-paced classes provide instruction in Language Arts, Math, Reading, Science and Social Studies and focus on what is needed to pass the test, she said. Participants commit to an intensive schedule, with evening class on Thursday and full-day sessions on Friday and Saturday that include both instruction and testing.

Ms. Shaw said, 90% of our participants were able to complete their HSE in that time; however, for those who need extra assistance, we dont leave them behind. We have ongoing support and instruction available to help them obtain their credential. Our goal is to have a 100 percent completion rate.

While this program might not be the right fit for everyone, completing the preregistration is a start on the right path, Ms. Shaw advised. For those who need more time or support, the Office of Adult Education offers flexible learning options, including both online and face-to-face instruction.

No matter where someone is on their educational journey, GNTCs Office of Adult Education provides the opportunity to move forward. she said.

Ms. Dubose commended the remarkable level of preparation, collaboration and genuine care demonstrated by the entire team for GNTCs Accelerated Academy.

The GNTC team embraced and studied the Accelerated Academy framework, proactively sought guidance from other pilot sites, and thoughtfully planned and executed their event with excellence, Ms. DeBose explained.

The most impressive aspect was the level of inclusion and shared ownership displayed across the entire organization, Ms. Dubose said. From Dr. Heidi Popham, GNTC president, who personally came onsite to check in and offer support to GNTC Police and maintenance staff, everyone was informed, involved and deeply invested in the success of the participants.

To anyone considering the Accelerated Academy program, I urge you not to give up, Tristan Evans said. I once thought I would never graduate after dropping out, but the most important investment you can make is in yourself. The three-day accelerated course is an excellent and efficient way to achieve this and propel yourself towards greater things in your life and future.

The next Accelerated Academy class will be offered in November at GNTCs Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton. Enrollment is capped at 20.

Participants must be age 18 or older and possess a government-issued form of identification.

For more information, visit www.gntc.edu/adult-education/, email adulted@gntc.edu or call 706-295-6976.
On August 10, 2025, surrounded by love, Jennie Hill Owen completed her remarkable journey of 102 years.

Born on Feb. 3, 1923, in Sumter, S.C., to Kenneth Hill and Lucille Barnes Hill, Jennie lived a life marked by music, faith, family and an unwavering joyful spirit. In her later years, she made her home in Signal Mountain, where she continued to brighten the lives of all who knew her.

Jennie's life was rich in love and deep purpose. She shared 66 wonderful years with her devoted husband, Sam E. Owen, Jr., and together they built homes in various cities filled with warmth, laughter, and music. Their son, Sam E. Owen, III, was the pride of their hearts, and though both Sam Jr. and Sam III passed away before her, Jennie carried their love with her always.

Music was the thread that ran through Jennie's life. A proud graduate of Blue Mountain College in Mississippi, and advanced studies at Columbia University in New York, she shared her gift by teaching piano for many years and remaining active with the Columbia Music Teacher's Association. Her students remember her not only as a talented teacher, but as a patient encourager who opened the door to a lifelong love of music.

Her faith was central to her life. A longtime member of Shandon United Methodist Church in Columbia, South Carolina, and later at Signal Crest United Methodist Church in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, Jennie was active with her Circle and faithfully sang in the choir. The fellowship, services, and music she found there were a source of joy and strength.

Jennie's home was a reflection of her heart - beautiful, welcoming, and full of life. She was a gifted cook and gracious hostess, making every gathering special. Family and friends knew they would be met at the door with warmth, a smile, and something delicious to eat.

In her final years, Jennie was blessed with the care and companionship of the staff at Alexian Village, to whom her family extends heartfelt thanks for their compassion, patience, and kindness.

Jennie is survived by her daughter-in-law, Kathy Owen of Signal Mountain; grandsons, Edward Owen of Signal Mountain and Stephen Owen of Nashville; and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of love, kindness, and joy.

She will be remembered as a woman of grace, music and faith - one who found beauty in every day and left the world brighter than she found it.

A private graveside service for family will be held in Batesburg, S.C.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Signal Crest United Methodist Church, Signal Mountain, TN or Shandon United Methodist Church, Columbia, S.C.

Arrangements are entrusted to Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415, 423 877-3524, lanefh.com.
Zef and Min said they had a hard time doing without the card playing for a week while we were with our family in Oregon and they were on their own.

First, they were in some old farmhouse outside Newport, where Min shared ideas on "agri-tourism" with the lady of the house.

Then they were in a little Air Stream camper. Zef said when he tried to take a shower his knees kept knocking the door open.

We headed for the scenic Hood River area and hit afternoon traffic at Portland - a major city.

On a prior Oregon trip, we had gone to the place where the salmon make their annual run. Did not think we were going to see any that earlier time, but suddenly one jumped and Mert let out a gasp. She was delighted as they kepting coming in their ancient upriver migration.

But this time they had seemed to have moved our salmon viewing site. At any rate, we never found it.

In the search we went across a grand bridge over the wide Columbia River. By halfway, we were in the state of Washington. We went along that northern side of the river until we arrived at the spectacle of sailboats just outside the town of Hood River. We drove along the river road, where cars from all over the country were parked.

Then it was across the exceedingly narrow bridge from Washington to Hood River. I feared the whole way that Mert was going to scrape her beautiful red Buick Envision, but she is an excellent driver and managed to avoid a mark.

When we arrived at the end of the bridge we found that they were undergoing a transition to a camera system of charging for the harrowing bridge ride. For the time being - no charge!

But we needed the money for the meal at the Riverside restaurant by a Best Western Plus at Hood River. But definitely worth every penny. The alfredo was the best I had ever had - the waitress said it was the local cheese from Trout River just across the river.

Trout River - it brings back memories of an excellent earlier visit. It's in the wilds at the foot of Mount Adams - a volcanic mass that could still go off. Places to explore at Trout River include the "ice cave" where it's freezing and the odd formations at the "natural bridges."

Lisa and Al hosted us at their modern home overlooing the Columbia, though we never saw them on the night of their arrival. These airbnbs where the hosts are under the same roof seem to be a stealth operation. (But am now informed that Zef caught up with Al, and they had quite the conversation).

Their password is longer than the new Chattanooga mandatory area code, but we again managed to get on in order to deliver this report.

On to Kellogg, Idaho, en route to Yellowstone and the Badlands.
The City of East Ridge, in coordination with the East Ridge Police Department, East Ridge Fire Rescue Department, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), the Hamilton County Mayors Office, and the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security, is conducting a comprehensive assessment of damages sustained during the severe weather and flash flooding on Tuesday.



This assessment applies to all properties within the corporate limits of the City of East Ridge including residential homes, commercial properties, businesses, and other structures that experienced water intrusion into primary living or working spaces or sustained storm related damage.



All individuals, property owners, business owners, and tenants affected by the storm damage are strongly encouraged and required to promptly report their damages to their insurance company. All individuals, property owners, business owners, and tenants affected by the storm damage are strongly encouraged and required to promptly report their damages to their insurance company.



Reporting Instructions:

Provide the following information: full address, phone number, and email address.

Include a brief description of the damages and, if possible, photographs.

Submit reports via email to Amanda Bowers, administrative office assistant, at abowers@eastridgetn.gov , or call East Ridge City Hall at 423 867-7711.

City officials and partner agencies remain actively engaged in response and recovery efforts. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Official updates will be posted on the City of East Ridge website at

and through verified City of East Ridge  Government social media channels.
County Commissioner Lee Helton is offering a "compromise" proposal for the controversial Plan Hamilton.

The County Commission is set to vote next Wednesday on his proposal despite deep divisions continuing on the commission and in the community.

Officials said the vote will express "the will of the County Commission", but it will go back to the Planning Commission to draft the growth plan that will be used in the unincorporated county going forward.

County Attorney Janie Varnell said under state law it is the Planning Commission that is to produce such a plan.

Commissioner Helton said his changes include:

Allowing 1.5 dwellings per acre in A1. It is now two per acre.

Allowing five dwellings per acre in R1. It is now seven.

Allowing developers to fill 75 percent of flood plains instead of the current 100 percent.

Requiring house setbacks from roads.

Requiring landscape buffers among major thoroughfares.

Going down from three dwellings per acre to 2.75 per acre in R1 country-side zones.

Commissioner Helton said, "To say this proposal does not lower density is a downright falsehood." He said he will not recuse himself from the vote as requested by one citizen, who said he is a builder and member of the Homebuilders Association.

Commissioner Helton said he let his Homebuilders Association membership expire when he went into office.

He said he had not "pulled a permit" in the unincorporated county since then, but has built a few homes in the city and in north Georgia.

Opponents said the Helton resolution "allows 3 per acre on sewers in A-1 zones that are currently two per acre. Plus it will lower density from 2 per acre to 1.5 per acre if a house is on septic in A-1 zones and that will take away people's property rights."

County Commissioner Chip Baker said at the Spangler Farm subdivision going in on Signal Mountain, that under the new plan even more homes could be built because it is putting in its own sewage system.

He said in the past commissioners have acknowledged the needs of commissioners in their districts, but he said that may not be the case in the future.

Here is the resolution:

Hamilton County Board of Commissioners

RESOLUTION

No. 825-18

A RESOLUTION ADVISING THE REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION AND THE

REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCY THAT IT IS THE WILL OF THE HAMILTON

COUNTY COMMISSION TO CHANGE PLAN HAMILTON IN ACCORDANCE WITH

THE SPECIFIED CHANGES.



WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Commission recognizes the importance of Plan Hamilton as a guiding document for the orderly growth, development, and sustainability of Hamilton County; and

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Commission has reviewed proposed changes to Plan Hamilton, as detailed in the resolution below; and

WHEREAS, these changes are intended to ensure that Plan Hamilton aligns with the current and future needs of the community, promoting responsible land use, economic development, and quality of life for all residents; and

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Commission seeks to advise the Regional Planning Commission and the Regional Planning Agency that it is the will of the Commission to incorporate these changes into Plan Hamilton to reflect the Countys vision for sustainable and equitable development; and

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Hamilton County Commission that the Regional Planning Commission would adopt Plan Hamilton with these changes as the area plan for the unincorporated areas of Hamilton County with the intent of it being included as part of the adopted comprehensive area plan; and

WHEREAS, after the Regional Planning Commission adopts a plan, it would be transmitted for review and adoption by the Hamilton County Commission if it be the desire of the Hamilton County Commission at that time.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION, HAMILTON COUNTY, TENNESSEE:

SECTION 1. That the Regional Planning Commission and the Regional Planning Agency are hereby advised that it is the will of the Hamilton County Commission to change Plan Hamilton in accordance with the following changes:

 Change Countryside Residential density to 1.5 dwelling units per acre if on septic, and 3 dwelling units per acre if on sewers, and 2.75 dwelling units per acre on decentralized sewer systems, or where new approved technology allows (subject to change if new information or technological improvements to the decentralized systems becomes available), in all appropriate areas of all plans, to reduce density where septic systems are used and allow for future growth where sewer infrastructure is available.

 Change the Countryside Residential Development Standards bullet point paragraph "Floodplains" by changing "two thirds" to "three fourths" and the number "67" to "75" in all plans, to reduce development in floodplains by 25%.

 Require ADA compliant sidewalks in Suburban Residential Development Standards unless the average lot size is 1 acre or above, in all plans, to ensure pedestrian infrastructure in denser subdivisions.

 Change the Plan Change Process to allow changes for one side of the river every other month, alternating sides, in all appropriate areas of all plans, to permit changes six times per year, per side of the river, as a reasonable compromise.

 Remove all Appendices except for the Chamber of Commerce letter, in all plans, as the Appendices add no substantive value to the Plan.

 Delete the entire section in the Plan Change Process and Updates Section beginning with "Hamilton County and RPA will develop criteria for plan changes using the following considerations," in all plans, to prevent additional requirements post-adoption.

 Delete the "Case Study/Example Ordinance Column" in the Implementation Matrix, in all plans, to avoid confusion from references to external rules without clear relevance.

 Remove the bullet point on Page 19 requiring Geo-technical, Environmental, Traffic, and Stormwater reports for new development in Area 7, as current regulations sufficiently address report requirements.

 Remove the first bulleted paragraph under Conservation Subdivisions on Page 82 in Area 7, which suggests rezoning to higher density only in incorporated areas with sewer and emergency services or at identified center Place Types, to avoid restricting development in unincorporated areas.

 Remove the first sentence of the first bulleted paragraph under Centers on Page 82 in Area 7, stating that the majority of future development should be located within the incorporated town boundaries of Signal Mountain and Town of Walden, to avoid restricting development in unincorporated areas.

 Delete the sentence on Page 14 in Area 8 under Flood Plain & Drainage stating, "Lower density residential development patterns with large, clustered lots, setbacks from flood plain and roadways, and significant open Areas are recommended in this Area," as density should be governed by Place Type and existing engineering requirements.

 Delete the CR 2.5 Place Type in Areas 8 and 9, converting these areas to Countryside Residential if sewer is not available or Suburban Residential if sewer is available, based on the density changes above.

 Remove the second sentence on Page 31 in Area 9, stating, "These constraints dictate that residential and commercial density should remain low," to avoid requiring less density than permitted by Place Types.

 Delete the phrase in Item 2 on Page 35 in Area 9, "Further road congestion must be avoided and necessary infrastructure improvements will be required to support new development," to ensure developments are evaluated based on existing engineering studies.

 Delete the sentence in Item 3 on Page 35 in Area 9, "Prohibiting development in the floodplain ensures necessary storage of floodwaters," as development in floodplains is governed by current regulations.

 Delete the sentence in Item 4 on Page 35 in Area 9, "The predominant development pattern of single family residential on larger lots will be maintained," to ensure development aligns with zoning and Place Type lot sizes.

 Remove the words "subdivision plat approvals" from the first sentence of section 4.2 on Page 37 in Area 9, as plat approvals are governed by subdivision regulations.

 Delete the phrase "or be required to pay for regional solutions" from Policy 15.3.1 on Page 74 in Area 13, to avoid introducing requirements for developers to fund regional flood solutions.

 Replace the first sentence of Policy 7.13.1 on Page 74 in Area 13 with, "The lack of sewer and water infrastructure, constraints on emergency services, undulating terrain, and floodprone low lands in Area 13 make it important to ensure that developments are appropriately engineered and serviced," to align density with Place Type requirements and zoning.

 Delete the first paragraph on Page 77 in Area 13, stating that larger-scale developments above base zoned A-1 density are not appropriate outside of Soddy-Daisy, to avoid restricting rezonings in unincorporated areas.

 Change Rural Corridor to require a 50-foot setback from right of way of existing roadway for any structure including water quality features and require a 30-foot type A landscape buffer along the entire frontage. Adequate right of way as determined by the County Engineer should also be required as a condition to be given to accommodate an additional lane if a rezoning case is requested along the Rural Corridor overlay.

 Remove the rural corridor overlay from Dolly Pond Rd, Grasshopper Rd, Cooley Rd, Shipley Hollow Rd, Turner Rd, Andy Thomas Rd, Providence Rd, Poole Rd, May Rd, Poe Rd, Corral Rd and McGhee Rd.

 Existing zoning density and conditions should not be overridden by Plan Hamilton for platting purposes in residential or commercial zones, but all setback and buffering language should apply to new preliminary plats (those not already accepted by RPA)

 Setback and buffering requirements should also apply to residential plats in agricultural zones.

 A-1 Zoning should be amended to reflect the change to 1.5 per acre on traditional septic and should remain unchanged on sewer.

SECTION 2. That the Regional Planning Agency shall undertake all necessary steps to review, process, and implement said changes in a timely manner, consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and planning procedures.



SECTION 3. That this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage, the public welfare requiring it.
Over six inches of rain fell in a short time on Tuesday afternoon, causing widespread flash flooding across East Ridge and surrounding areas in Hamilton County. Major roadways, including I-24, Brainerd Road, Ringgold Road, Bonny Oaks Drive, and SR 153, were impacted, with Spring Creek rising above its banks and flooding multiple corridors. Several local roads were also affected.

This storm event, which had a 0.2 percent probability of occurrence, made it a once-in-a-century event and far exceeded the design standard that was used in accordance with state and federal standards. Despite this, TDOT responded with urgency and precision, said officials.

We were mobilized and ready to respond with statewide resources, said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid. Acting in coordination with emergency services, our teams worked around the clock in the challenging conditions to get critical routes moving again.

Around 1 a.m., all state routes were reopened, thanks to the rapid deployment of TDOT Help operators working together with local law enforcement, emergency responders and public works agencies. Teams had to divide and conquer, working tirelessly to establish closures in flooded areas, assist stranded motorists, monitor rapidly changing conditions, clear debris once water receded, and reopen the roadways to traffic as quickly and safely as possible.

We have an extensive Incident Management Plan which includes alternate routes when the interstate shuts down, said TDOT Region 2 Director, Danny Oliver. But with the amount of rain falling quickly, many of our alternate routes were also flooded, so we had to go to plans B and C.

The ongoing road construction project in the area was not the contributing factor to the flooding. The projects drainage systems functioned as designed, and runoff from the site was properly channeled.

TDOT said it remains committed to safe travel and supporting local partners. Throughout the day, maintenance crews will investigate routes for any damage that may have occurred and prepare for upcoming rains.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOTs motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departure. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on the phone while driving. For the latest updates, visit the TDOT SmartWay Map or dial 511 for statewide travel information.

Tennessees Move Over Law requires drivers to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles. Violating this law can result in up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
Ralph Clifford "Cliff" Goodlet, Jr., 75, of Rock Springs, Georgia, was a man of deep faith and transitioned to an eternal life free of illness and pain on August 12, 2025.

Preceding Cliff in death were his parents, Ralph and Bettie Goodlet and his sister, Pamela Goodlet Davis.

Surviving him are his devoted wife, Patsy Cates Goodlet, his son, Tripp Goodlet, Tripps wife, Missy Smith Goodlet, their much loved son Cal, and many loving cousins. When Cliff became a grandfather, he chose the nickname C-Dog.

Cliff attended McCallie school through the 10th grade and graduated from Chattanooga City High School in 1968, then went to TN Wesleyan College where he met Poddy, the love of his life. Cliff made close friends through Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity at Tennessee Wesleyan College. Those friendships continued throughout his lifetime. Cliff majored in Business and Secondary Education but upon graduation, went to work with his father and uncle at Goodlets Supermarket on Rossville Boulevard and other locations. Cliff developed an interest in the then newly-created device, the computer. He studied computers and became so well versed that he started teaching computer classes at Chattanooga State Community College. He generously helped family decide which television or computer to buy, becoming the familys technological guru!

A fitness enthusiast, Cliff exercised a lot, especially riding his bicycle. He, his cousin Jack, and friends took extended bike rides to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Key West, and many other locations. Wives would drive the support vehicle with parts and luggage then all would meet up at the hotel in the next town and enjoy supper before crashing to rest for the next days ride. When electric bicycles became available, Cliff and Jack upgraded but riding was still a challenge.

He was an avid short wave radio listener and listened to broadcasts all over the world.

Cliff was fond of Florida and loved to walk the sandy beaches, wade in the salt water, and he loved to ride his sea-doos. This past July 4th week, he, his immediate family, and various extended family members all vacationed in Florida and enjoyed it immensely.

Cliff was a Baptist his entire life, attending the Ridgedale Baptist Church, and teaching the Sunday school class The Way Too Class.

Family takes comfort in knowing Cliff has transitioned to an eternal life.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Doug Plumlee, Mr. William Kilbride, and Jim Goodlet speaking. Interment will follow at Peavine Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ridgedale Baptist Church Building Fund or the American Cancer Association.

Family will receive friends from 2-8 p.m. on Saturday at Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.
Road sign welcomes drivers to the Cherokee Nation Reservation on U.S. 412 near the Arkansas state line. A recent proposed change to federal law would require Cherokee Nation approval for trust land within its reservation.
Before their final Cherokee Nation Tribal Council meeting Aug. 11, outgoing councilors, from left, Mike Dobbins from District 4, Mike Shambaugh from District 9 and E.O. Junior Smith from District 5 receive gifts and words of praise from fellow Councilor Kevin Easley Jr. at the W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex in Tahlequah.
The website of the Religious Exemption Accountability Project. | Screenshot: REAP Official Website

An LGBT advocacy organization that attempted but failed to legally challenge the religious exemptions to federal Title IX discrimination laws for Christian colleges receiving federal funding is closing its doors.

The board of directors for the Religious Exemption Accountability Project (REAP) sent out an email to supporters on Sunday, announcing the organizations shutdown. They cited a serious internal issue that impacted its financial and operational stability as the reason for the decision.

Founded as a legal and storytelling campaign by queer students and alumni, REAP grew into a national nonprofit advocating for LGBTQIA+ students at religious colleges and universities, stated REAP.

In March 2021, REAP initiated a lawsuit representing over 30 LGBT-identified current and former students who believed they had been discriminated against by more than 20 religious colleges.

The lawsuit was filed against the U.S. Department of Education and other defendants. It aimed to eliminate the religious exemption granted to Christian academic institutions under Title IX, which is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational settings receiving federal funding.

The lead plaintiff, Elizabeth Hunter, was a former student at Bob Jones University in South Carolina. She alleged that school officials harassed her because of her sexual orientation. Hunter also expressed concerns about the student handbook, which detailed behavioral rules prohibiting same-sex romantic relationships.

Other plaintiffs attended institutions such as Baylor University in Texas, Union University in Tennessee, Fuller Theological Seminary in California, and Azusa Pacific University in California, among others.

The Council for Christian Colleges and Universities filed a motion to intervene in the case, asserting that the schools are transparent about their policies and behavior guidelines, which students voluntarily agree to when they choose to attend the institution.

In January 2023, U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken in Oregon, a Clinton appointee, issued a ruling against the plaintiffs. The judge concluded that they failed to prove that the original exemption granted by Congress to religious colleges decades ago for Title IX was discriminatory.

In August 2024, a three-judge panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals also ruled against the lawsuit. Circuit Judge Milan D. Smith, Jr., a George W. Bush appointee, authored the panels opinion.

Judge Smith stated that there is a continuous, century-long practice of governmental accommodations for religion that the Supreme Court and our court have repeatedly accepted as consistent with the Establishment Clause.

He explained, Here, when a school claims an exemption, the Department must make two determinations  whether the school is controlled by a religious organization and whether Title IX would conflict with the religious tenets of the controlling organization. We are not persuaded that this type of facially neutral religious accommodation violates the Establishment Clause.
Home News Expert warns foster care crisis is putting young children in grave danger

Child maltreatment in the United States kills more than 2,000 children each year  most of them under the age of 3  yet the problem receives far less public attention than pediatric cancer or school shootings, according to child welfare expert and author Naomi Schaefer Riley.

Its a problem, Riley told host Abby Johnson on her "Politely Rude" podcast. Child abuse and child neglect are real problems in this country  and most of those children are under the age of 3. Theyre very young. Those are kids who cant protect themselves.

Riley, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and the Independent Womens Forum, joined Johnson to discuss the harsh realities of Americas foster care system, the high turnover among foster parents and the difficult balance between family reunification and child safety. Her most recent book, No Way to Treat a Child, examines how the foster care system, family courts and what she described as racial activists are wrecking young lives.

Riley said the youngest victims are often born to parents struggling with substance abuse or severe mental illness, leaving them unable to provide basic safety.

We definitely have a need in this country for a child welfare system, and a need in this country for foster care, for those children who  we know are the victims of this kind of terrible maltreatment, she said.

One common misconception, Riley noted, is that children placed for private adoption by their birth mothers are routed into the public foster care system. Those children would never go into, quote, unquote, the system, she said, explaining that in private adoption, the birth mother chooses the adoptive family.

Listen to the Politely Rude podcast

Still, fears about the system persist, Johnson said, adding that women in crisis pregnancies often tell her they reject adoption because they dont want their children to end up in foster care.

While acknowledging that abuse within foster care does occur, Riley said maltreatment rates in foster homes are much less than they are in the general population. The greater challenge, she argued, is supporting foster families so they do not burn out.

About half of foster families quit within the first year, Riley said. Its a hard system to navigate  you can start to feel like, am I part of the problem?

Some faith communities, particularly Evangelical churches, are helping by providing training and wraparound support for foster families. I really was inspired by a lot of the great communities out there that are doing foster care, Riley said.

On the issue of reunification, the stated goal of most child welfare agencies, Riley cautioned against one-size-fits-all policies. I think the question that should be at the heart of this decision is what is best for the child, she said. There are going to be many, many cases where reunification is whats best  but we shouldnt have the answer to that question as a blanket rule.

She described cases in which repeated reunifications with unrehabilitated parents led to more maltreatment. This is not a case for another reunification. This is a case for finding that child a permanent home in an adoptive family, she said of situations where parents show no interest in treatment.

Neglect, rather than physical abuse, accounts for most reports to child protective services, but Riley warned that neglect is often misunderstood.

Up to 90 percent of the families who are in the child welfare system are suffering from some kind of substance use disorder, she said. Throwing money at that problem is not going to fix it.

The systems heavy reliance on caseworker judgment leaves room for debate over whether there is too much subjectivity, she said. Though its impossible to remove subjectivity entirely, she advocated for better training and retention of experienced staff. High turnover, low pay and inexperience are persistent challenges.

Its a really hard job, she said. Who wants to join a system that everybody says is racist?  The most qualified and most motivated people decide theyre going to do something else.

Riley also addressed racial disparity claims in foster care, noting that black children die from maltreatment at three times the rate of white children.

It would be crazy to imagine that you should have child welfare agencies going out to see black families at the same rate as white families, she said. Proposals to address disparities by raising the removal threshold for black children, she contended, risk leaving children in dangerous situations.

Both Johnson and Riley agreed that child welfare agencies need better funding, higher salaries and more specialized training rather than budget cuts. If you care about children, if you value life, it just seems like a no brainer to me, Johnson said. That is a program that is desperately underfunded, and it is children who are suffering from it, and literally, some children are dying because of it.

Riley suggested that frontline child protective work is more akin to law enforcement than social work, with caseworkers entering potentially dangerous homes and needing to gather evidence under pressure. Recruiting individuals with investigative training, she said, could improve safety and decision-making.

For those looking to help, Riley recommended volunteering as a court-appointed special advocate, or CASA, to serve as a childs voice in court. She also encouraged people to explore respite care, provide meals or otherwise support foster families in their communities.

At AEI, Riley is also working on Lives Cut Short, a project with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that documents child maltreatment fatalities.

We think that more transparency around fatalities will actually lead to system improvements, she said.

Johnson closed the conversation by urging listeners to come alongside each other to support children in foster care. Maybe theres a way you can support someone whos a foster parent, she said. Doing what we can do to help support one another in our communities  is really important.
Home News Former AP reporter on media bias toward Israel after Oct. 7

At the American Jewish Committee Global Forum 2025, award-winning journalist and former Associated Press correspondent Matti Friedman delivered a candid look at the bias, misinformation and double standards shaping global coverage relating to Israel.

From the rise of activist journalism to the endurance of skewed narratives, he revealed how the media can shape  and distort  reality.

Last month, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) released a podcast featuring highlights from the full interview. Friedmans perspective comes from the inside: he worked in the APs Jerusalem bureau  the organizations largest international office  between 2006 and 2011. And what he witnessed left him deeply concerned about how the IsraelPalestinian narrative is now being played out in todays media climate.

At the time  we had about 40 full-time staffers covering Israel  more than we had covering China, more than we had in India, more than we had in all of sub-Saharan Africa combined. I happen to think Israel is the most important country in the world because I live there. But if the news is meant to be a rational analysis of events on planet Earth, you cannot cover Israel more than you cover the continent of Africa. It just doesn't make any sense.

During the interview, Friedman identified two overarching problems: the disproportionate scale of coverage and the narrow framing of the conflict.

The AP was giving an enormous amount of coverage regarding a very small conflict in numeric terms and yet, there was this intense global focus on it that made people think that it was the most important story in the world. And it definitely occupies a place in the American political imagination that is not comparable to any other international conflict. So that's one part of the problem. That was the scope.

He argued that the medias insistence on describing events as an IsraeliPalestinian conflict distorts reality.

Israel has unfortunately fought wars against Egyptians and Jordanians and Lebanese and Iraqis. And Israel's most important enemy at the moment is Iran, right? The Iranians are not Palestinian. The Iranians are not Arab. They're Muslim, but they're not Arab.

Friedman said, Clearly, there is a broader regional conflict.  If you take a small story and make it seem big, and if you take a complicated regional story and you make it seem like a very small local story involving only Israelis and Palestinians, then you get the highly simplified but very emotive narrative that everyone is being subjected to now. And you get this portrayal of a villainous country called Israel that really looms in the liberal imagination of the West as an embodiment of the worst possible qualities of the age."

Since Oct. 7, 2023, rockets have been fired from Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, Gaza, and from Iran.

There are in the Arab world 300 million people  almost all of them Muslim. And in one corner of that world, there are 7 million Jews who are Israelis. And if we zoom out even farther to the level of the Islamic world, we'll see that there are 2 billion people in the Islamic world.  It's roughly a quarter of the world's population. And in one corner of that world, there are 7 million Israeli Jews  the entire Jewish population on planet Earth is a lot smaller than the population of Cairo. So the idea that this is an Israeli-Palestinian conflict where Israelis are the stronger side  where Israelis are the dominant actor and where Israelis are, let's face it, the bad guy in the story, that's a fictional presentation.

Friedman noted that this was not unique to the Associated Press, but true of the entire news herd.

It's true of the Times and CNN and the BBC.  What happened was that news decisions were increasingly being made by people who were not interested in explanatory journalism. They were activists. Activists had moved into the key positions in the bureau, and they had a very different idea of what press coverage was supposed to do.

Friedman recalled previous examples in this career with the AP news bureau that were related to Israel, and how the narrative was spun to help one side of the conflict. He provided more recent examples, such as the medias attempt to hide the deteriorating health condition of then-U.S. President Joe Biden in 2024.

He said he witnessed the transformation of the important liberal institutions of the West into kind of activist arms of a very radical ideology that has as its goal the transformation of the West into something else.

I think that many people in the journalism world today view their job not as explaining a complicated situation but as swaying people toward the correct political conclusion.

Journalism is power, he continued, and the power has to be wielded in support of justice.

In the immediate aftermath of Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, surprise invasion and terror attack on southern Israeli Gaza-border communities, the scale and brutality of the massacres forced the press to cover Israeli suffering. But, Friedman says, the discomfort was palpable.

There were a few weeks after October 7 when they were forced to sympathize with Israelis.  You knew that within a few weeks, it was going to snap back, he said. That snap back came quickly  most visibly, he says, during the false story about Israel bombing a Gaza hospital, a claim amplified worldwide before it was debunked.

The story that the press is primed to cover is a story about villainous Israelis victimizing innocent Palestinians. ... The problem was that it hadnt happened.

Friedman traced the bias to a deeper shift within newsrooms.

The question being asked was no longer Whats going on? It was, Who does this serve? Thats an activist question.

This mindset, he argued, means that stories which cast Israel in a reasonable light often never see the page. He recalled a major peace offer from Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in 2008  an offer the Palestinians rejected  that AP reporters were ordered not to publish because it would have helped the wrong people.

Inside Gaza, Friedman says Western outlets have long operated under Hamas restrictions  or worse, the terror groups influence.

Since 2008  the press has been essentially an amplifier for one of the most poisonous ideologies on earth. All of the information from Gaza comes from people who either identify with Hamas, are intimidated by Hamas, or belong to Hamas.

Friedman explained that journalists were pressured to remove a key fact from a news story  namely, that Hamas fighters disguised as civilians were being counted as civilian casualties  because a reporter in Gaza had been threatened. He said the AP and other news outlets have complied with Hamas censorship, relying on casualty figures provided by Hamas, which shapes coverage to emphasize Palestinian deaths while downplaying losses and Hamas military strategy. Friedman said thats why the public sees civilian casualties but rarely images of armed Hamas fighters  and why Hamas-issued casualty numbers are treated as fact.

For Friedman, the problem is structural  and irreversible.

The old institutions  cant be saved. Its not about a lack of information. They define the profession differently." The answer is not more letters to editors or attempts to educate hostile newsrooms. Instead, he calls for building new institutions  just as Zionism built a new model in the 19th century when old structures failed.

At a dark time, you need real creativity, he said.

Its not about chasing away antisemitism  which he views as a permanent feature of history  but about strengthening Jewish life from within.

If I had unlimited resources  I would make sure that young Jewish people have access to the riches of Jewish civilization.  Hebrew is the key to Jewish life. If you have it, a whole world will open up  and its not one that antisemites can interfere with.

Its not just a critique of media bias  its a roadmap for understanding how narratives are built, how they persist, and why simply fixing coverage of Israel wont solve the larger problem.

This article was originally published by All Israel News.
Home News US Marine spiked woman's drink with abortion drugs, left her hemmorrhaging: lawsuit

Liana Davis was looking forward to giving birth and raising another baby girl before the father of her child slipped abortion drugs into her drink, states a new lawsuit accusing a U.S. Marine of murder and seeking to recover damages from an entity that ships abortion drugs overseas.

Filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Davis' lawsuit looks to recover damages from Marine pilot-in-training Christopher Cooprider and Aid Access for the "wrongful death" of her unborn child.

Aid Access, a website that ships abortion drugs abroad, and Rebecca Gomperts, the Dutch physician who runs the organization, are also listed as defendants in the suit.

After purchasing abortion drugs online, the lawsuit alleges Cooprider dissolved at least 10 of them in a cup of hot chocolate that he prepared for Davis when he visited her home in April. Davis started hemorrhaging and cramping shortly after consuming the spiked drink and lost her unborn baby.

"This tragic story presents a devastating rebuke of the false notion that deregulating the abortion drug mifepristone is safe for women," Dr. Christina Francis, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and CEO of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, said in a statement provided to The Christian Post.

Francis condemned the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for advocating for further deregulation, even though the FDA removed the in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone under the Biden administration, allowing it to be prescribed and dispensed via telehealth through the mail.

The AAPLOG CEO argued that, if the FDA's original safeguards were still in place, then Cooprider may not have accessed the drugs and Davis' baby would still be alive.

"This horrific case is just the latest in the steady stream of stories demonstrating that the FDA's reckless actions benefit abusers, not our patients," the doctor stated. "For the health of pregnant women and their preborn children, it is imperative that the FDA, at a minimum, reinstate the original safeguards on dangerous abortion drugs."

Aid Access did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment.

Davis learned in early 2025 that she had become pregnant with Cooprider's baby, according to the legal filing. Davis is a resident of Texas, and Cooprider is an Arizona citizen stationed in Corpus Christi.

The Texas woman was eager to raise the baby alongside her three other daughters from a previous marriage, according to the lawsuit, naming her unborn child "Joy."

"Cooprider had different plans. He wanted the baby dead  and he made that clear to Ms. Davis in no uncertain terms," the lawsuit states. "This became a daily source of contention between Cooprider and Davis, as Cooprider would constantly pressure Davis to kill their unborn child, while Davis consistently rebuffed his requests and made clear that she intended to give birth."

In text messages included in the lawsuit, Cooprider allegedly stated that they were "not in love" and that it would be "messed up to bring a child into the world without both parents raising them." The lawsuit states that Cooprider told Davis that if she took a pregnancy test and it was positive, then they would need to schedule an appointment and obtain "an abortion pill asap."

After learning in early February that Davis' pregnancy test was positive, Cooprider continued to insist that she have an abortion, telling her that he would order abortion drugs for her. Despite multiple objections from Davis, the U.S. Marine purchased the drugs online.

Cooprider showed the receipt to Davis, and she saw that it said he had bought the drugs from Aid Access, according to the lawsuit. Aid Access is listed on a "Plan C" website that the pilot in training had referenced in an earlier text.

The lawsuit said that Cooprider tried for weeks to convince the Texas woman to have an abortion, referring to the baby as a "thing" and saying he wanted to "abort this monstrosity."

In early March, Cooprider allegedly went so far as to threaten to testify against Davis during her divorce proceedings and bid to have custody of her children if the mother didn't have an abortion.

Then, in early April, Cooprider appeared to have calmed down, inviting Davis to participate in a "trust-building night." When Cooprider visited Davis' residence in April, the mother was eight weeks pregnant. During the visit, Cooprider is accused of preparing Davis a cup of hot chocolate around midnight that contained abortion drugs.

Davis started hemorrhaging and cramping, but couldn't leave her three children home alone to visit the emergency room. The initial plan was for Cooprider to pick up Davis' mother so she could watch the children, and then Cooprider would take Davis to the emergency room.

But Cooprider allegedly became unreachable after leaving the house. The lawsuit says Cooprider apologized to Davis later, saying that he had to catch a flight the next day. Davis' mother took an Uber to the house and watched the children while a neighbor drove the hemorrhaging woman to the hospital.

Joy did not survive, according to the lawsuit. Before Davis left for the emergency room, she discovered the open box of abortion drugs with Cooprider's name on it. She also found an open pill bottle containing one mifepristone pill and two of the 12 misoprostol pills Cooprider purchased from Aid Access.

The Texas woman later turned all of these materials over to the Corpus Christi police as evidence, according to the lawsuit.

The Corpus Christi Police Department told NBC News, however, that there are no active investigations involving Cooprider.

A 2023 study published in the medical journal Cureus reports that over two-thirds of women with a history of abortion say their abortions were inconsistent with their own values and preferences, with one in four describing their abortions as unwanted or coerced.

"Liana Davis loved her child from the beginning, saying she couldn't wait to hold her 'gorgeous baby' and 'never ever put it down,'" Kelsey Pritchard, the political communications director at the pro-life avocacy organization SBA Pro-Life America, said in a statement provided to CP.

"As a nation, we should be horrified by this story and the Biden administration's reckless policy of mail-order abortion drugs that is fueling the rise of this new form of domestic violence," she added.

David Bereit, the executive director of the Life Leadership Conference, warned that there is "an epidemic of abortion coercion being fueled by unfettered access to dangerous abortion drugs."

"Liana Davis wasn't given a choice when her partner pursued an unrelenting pressure campaign against her and then secretly gave her abortion pills, ending the life of their child," Bereit said in a statement provided to CP.

"This type of violence against women is happening across the country, and if left unchecked, mail-order abortion drugs will continue to place dangerous pills in the hands of predators who use them to force women into unwanted abortions," he added. "This is why the FDA must immediately end the mail-order distribution of these deadly drugs, and why legislators and law enforcement must hold those who traffic them fully accountable."
Home News Anglican Church of Nigeria cuts ties with Church of Wales over lesbian bishop

The Anglican Church of Nigeria has broken relations with the Church in Wales following the election of an openly lesbian cleric as its archbishop. The Nigerian primate made the announcement during a gathering of church legal officers in Abuja.

The primate of the Church of Nigeria, the Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, told delegates at the opening of the 14th Church of Nigeria Conference of Chancellors, Registrars and Legal Officers that his province rejected the election of the Right Rev. Cherry Vann as Archbishop of Wales, Anglican Ink reported.

He said the decision by the Church in Wales was an abomination and a significant departure from biblical teaching.

Vann, 66, has served as bishop of Monmouth for five years. She was elected as the 15th archbishop of Wales after two days of deliberations by an electoral college of clergy and lay members at St. Pierre church near Chepstow.

Vann is the first woman and the first lesbian to hold the post. Her biography on the Church in Wales website says she lives with her civil partner, Wendy, and their two dogs.

Speaking in a keynote address titled The Decade of the Reign of God: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects, Ndukuba compared the development to the 2003 consecration of Gene Robinson in the Episcopal Church in the United States, which had also led the Nigerian Church to sever its ties with that province.

Ndukuba said that just as the Church of Nigeria had acted then, it would now end all ties with the Church in Wales.

Vann has previously spoken about keeping her relationship secret for much of her ministry in England. She has been in a relationship with Wendy Diamond for over 30 years.

Same-sex civil partnerships and marriages have been legal in England and Wales since 2013, though the Church of England has continued to teach that marriage is between a man and a woman.

In 2021, the Church in Wales voted to allow blessings of same-sex unions.

The Scottish Episcopal Church and the Presbyterian Church of Scotland already permit same-sex marriage ceremonies.

The Rev. Charlie Baczyk-Bell, a gay priest, welcomed Vanns election and described it as very significant for the denomination.

Ndukuba criticized the growing influence of revisionist teachings in parts of the Western Church. He said those advancing these positions had not stepped back from their agenda but had instead intensified it, and he rejected what they presented as wisdom and culture.

The Nigerian Church reaffirmed its support for Anglicans in Wales who adhere to its understanding of orthodoxy, stating that it would stand with them through platforms such as the Global Anglican Future Conference, known as GAFCON.

Ndukuba said the Church of Nigeria and GAFCON would support the faithful in Wales and prayed they would remain steadfast.

He also shared plans for the Church of Nigeria to expand its mission internationally. Registrations are underway in Germany, the Netherlands and Finland as part of what Ndukuba described as a return to Europe for mission work.

The primate noted that the Church of Nigeria had contributed $2.5 million to the GAFCON Endowment Fund and was working on a Nigerian GAFCON Endowment of $2.3 million to support Anglican work and mission. He said this showed the Churchs commitment to sustaining orthodox teaching globally.

On legal and governance matters, Ndukuba told church legal officers that they served as watchmen for the denomination, responsible for defending it against all forms of aggression. He urged them to listen to God and speak what they believed to be His truth, and to support constitutional review within the denomination as well as the creation of a new Nigerian Constitution.

The conference, held at St. Matthias House in Abuja under the theme Called as a Watchman from Ezekiel 33:7, gathers legal professionals from across the Church of Nigeria.
Home News Oklahoma's ban on sex-change surgeries for minors upheld by 10th Circuit

A federal appeals court has upheld an Oklahoma law banning body-disfiguring sex-change surgeries for minors in what supporters are hailing as a victory for "common sense" and critics are calling a "devastating outcome."

In a 3-0 opinion published last week, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected a request from trans-identified youth and a doctor to issue a preliminary injunction striking down Oklahoma's 2023 law banning minors with gender dysphoria from obtaining the life-altering procedures and puberty-blocking drugs.

Plaintiffs complained that the law violated the Due Process Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

The circuit's unanimous opinion comes seven weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a similar law in Tennessee in its United States v. Skrmettidecision, which Circuit Judge Joel Carson cited in the majority opinion.

"The Supreme Court subjected Tennessee's SB1 to rational basis review after holding the law denied these gender transition procedures on the basis of age and medical use," Carson, a Trump appointee, wrote.

"It 'reject[ed] the argument that the application of SB1 turns on sex,' because SB1' prohibits healthcare providers from administering puberty blockers or hormones to minors for certain medical uses, regardless of a minor's sex.'"

The American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Oklahoma and Lambda Legal, who represented plaintiffs challenging the Oklahoma law, condemned the 10th Circuit's ruling in a joint statement.

"[The court's] ruling is a devastating outcome for transgender youth and their families across Oklahoma and another tragic result of the Supreme Court's errant and harmful ruling in Skrmetti," the statement reads.

"Oklahoma's ban is openly discriminatory and probably harmful to the transgender youth of this state, putting political dogma above parents, their children, and their family doctors. While we and our clients consider our next steps, we want all transgender people and their families across Oklahoma to know we will never stop fighting for the future they deserve and their freedom to be themselves."

Oklahoma's Republican Attorney General Gentner Drummond, named as a defendant in the lawsuit, praised the ruling.

"For years, radical left activists pushed the lie of 'gender transition' procedures for minors. The truth is much simpler: there is no such thing," he said in a statement.

"Today, here in Oklahoma, we celebrate a new decision from the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals that recognizes this truth and protects our children," Drummond added. "I am proud to have fought this battle and won. This is a victory for our children, for our Constitution, and for common sense."

Oklahoma is one of 27 U.S. states that have banned some or all types of so-called gender transition for minors.

Efforts to ban minors from obtaining the life-altering procedures, which include puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and body-mutilating sex-change surgeries, stem from concerns about their long-term impacts.

The American College of Pediatricians has warned that puberty blockers can have side effects, including "osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment, and, when combined with cross-sex hormones, sterility." Meanwhile, the organization has warned that cross-sex hormones put youth at "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancer an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan."

In its 6-3 ruling in June, the U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that Tennessee has a "compelling interest in protecting minors from physical and emotional harm."

"Under SB1, no minor may be administered puberty blockers or hormones to treat gender dysphoria, gender identity disorder, or gender incongruence; minors of any sex may be administered puberty blockers or hormones for other purposes," he wrote.

"And [the plaintiffs] similarly fail to acknowledge that Tennessee found that the prohibited medical treatments are experimental, can lead to later regret, and are associated with harmful  and sometimes irreversible  risks."
Home News Over 7K Christians killed in Nigeria so far in 2025: watchdog

Islamic extremists and radicalized herder militias have killed over 7,000 Christians within the first 220 days of 2025, a new report from a civil society organization estimates, as human rights advocates continue to criticize the Nigerian government's inability to protect Christians.

The Anambra-based International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), headed by Christian criminologist and researcher Emeka Umeagbalasi, reported that at least 7,087 Christians "were massacred across Nigeria" from Jan. 1 until Aug. 10.

During that time, "no fewer than 7,800 others were violently seized and abducted for being Christians," the report estimates. The organization relies on what it deems to be credible local and foreign media reports, government accounts, reports from international rights groups and eyewitness accounts to compile statistical data.

"The brutal massacre of an estimated 7,087 Christians and abduction of 7,800 others also translated to an average of 30 Christian deaths per day and more than one per hour," Intersociety's report reads. "An estimated 35 Christians are also calculated to have been abducted daily and roughly two others per hour, in the said past 220 days or seven months and ten days of 2025."

Tens of thousands of Nigerian Christians have been killed in the last decade, and many others have been displaced amid the rise of Islamic extremist groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in the northeast and the increase of attacks carried out by radicalized Fulani militias against predominantly Christian communities in the Middle Belt states.

While some international observers say what's happening to Christian communities in the Middle Belt states may meet the standard for religious persecution and genocide, the Nigerian government contends that such violence is not inherently religious and emanates from decades-old farmer-herder clashes.

In its new report, Intersociety also claims that Nigeria is providing a "safe haven" to at least 22 Islamic terror groups, several of which reportedly have links to the Islamic State and World Jihad Fund.

Intersociety warned that these terror groups seek to obliterate or uproot Christians and traditional religionists across the country, particularly in Igbo Land South-East and South-South.

Intersociety Chair Umeagbalasi said his organization began tracking violence against Christians and religious intolerance in Nigeria in 2010.

"We have been following the patterns and trends, and the situation is getting worse," Umeagbalasi told The Christian Post.

He blamed the increasing violence on jihadist Islamic terrorist groups Boko Haram and radicalized Fulani herders. Advocates like Umeagbalasi have spoken out for years about what they have decried as religiously-motivated attacks against Christians within the region.

In addition to the threat of violence and murder, Christians have also been displaced from their communities and farms.

The report claims that the 22 Islamic terror groups reportedly headquartered in Nigeria are "using violence and genocidal means, to obliterate or wipe out Nigeria's indigenous ethnic groups and their identities, especially the 3,475-year-old Igbo cultural heritage put in place since 1450BC."

The report also estimates that "185,009 defenseless Nigerians" have been killed since 2009, including 125,009 Christians and 60,000 liberal Muslims. The group estimates that 19,100 churches were razed during that time, more than 1,100 Christian communities were "sacked," and 600 Christian clerics were abducted, including 250 Catholic priests and 350 pastors.

Umeagbalasi believes the Nigerian government is culpable, telling CP that the government has not apprehended the perpetrators for many of these massacres. He also condemned the Nigerian government for arresting victims of Fulani militias who attempted to defend themselves instead of arresting members of the radical group.

Addressing how the United States and other Western governments can address the issue, Umeagbalasi said U.S. President Donald Trump's State Department must include Nigeria on its "Countries of Particular Concern" list, which carries with it the possibility of sanctions and other deterrent measures.

Nigeria was on the CPC list during Trump's first presidential term, but the Biden administration removed Nigeria from the list during its first year, drawing criticism from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Umeagbalasi also called on leaders in the U.S., Europe and Canada to ban first-class Fulani Muslims, top Islamic clerics and leaders from traveling to "these religious freedom compliant and respecter countries."

Other advocacy groups that are raising concerns about Nigeria include Open Doors US, which placed Nigeria in the seventh spot on its 2025 World Watch List, released earlier this year. The reporting period for the WWL 2025 was Oct. 1, 2023, through Sept. 30, 2024.

During the WWL 2025 reporting period, researchers calculated, based on conservative estimates, that 3,100 Christians had been killed and 2,830 had been abducted. Regarding instances of sexual assault and physical and mental abuse, the report authors rounded the figures to 1,000 and 10,000, respectively.

Last August, the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa released a four-year data project documenting 55,910 fatalities from 9,970 attacks, including both civilians and combatants, across Nigeria.

Of the 30,880 civilians killed, Christians totaled 16,769, significantly outnumbering the 6,235 Muslim fatalities. The ratio of Christian to Muslim deaths was 6.5:1, with Fulani radicals being responsible for more than half of the Christian deaths.

"For over a decade atrocities against civilians in Nigeria have been downplayed or minimized," the 136-page report said. "This has proved a major obstacle for those seeking to understand the violence."
Home News Texas megachurch pastor says scammers stole $18K pretending to work for Wells Fargo

A Texas megachurch pastor claims he and his family were defrauded of more than $18,000 by scammers pretending to be Wells Fargo employees, who reportedly had inexplicable access to their personal banking information.

Pastor Brian McAnally, who serves as spiritual formation pastor at Grace Fellowship near Houston, said Wells Fargo did not restore the money stolen from his bank account and initially dismissed his story, according to local FOX 26.

McAnally claimed that after they successfully stole his money, the scammers mocked him and made him listen to them have sex over the phone when he called them back.

Wells Fargo did not respond to The Christian Post's request for comment by the time of publication, but told the local outlet that it has reopened an investigation into the pastor's situation.

McAnally's wife was first deceived by a July 30 text message from someone claiming to be a Wells Fargo fraud investigator, who asked about a supposed suspicious $4,000 transaction at a Bass Pro Shop in Miami, Florida.

"She responded with one word: no," he said. "They called her immediately, presenting themselves as the Wells Fargo fraud detection services team."

McAnally said they were more easily fooled into transferring their balance to an Apple Card because the scammers already had private information regarding their accounts, even though they had not been given their login information. The caller, who already had full control of their account, reportedly informed them of another fraudulent $5,000 charge in Miami.

"They had full access to our account at this point," he said. "They had never asked her for her username or password."

McAnally said the scammers "led us through the process" of loading up an Apple Cash card, assuring them their funds would be secure until moved to a new Wells Fargo account. Instead, the perpetrators drained more than $18,000 from their accounts and abruptly ended the call.

"They loaded the card, and then they drained the card," he said.

When McAnally called them back, they first claimed to be someone from Walmart customer service.

Confused, he hung up and redialed, only to reach someone identifying as part of Wells Fargo's fraud team, who then laughed at him before "getting very lewd and even vulgar," which he confirmed to FOX 26 involved them having sex with the phone on.

"I think that they were just very enthusiastic about having defrauded us, and were just celebrating that and rubbing our faces in it," McAnally said.

When he reached out to Wells Fargo, the pastor said the bank at first didn't believe him.

"They said to us multiple times, 'Well, what happened to you is impossible,'" he said of Wells Fargo's response. "Well, I'm telling you it was very possible, and it happened to us."

McAnally told the outlet he has dedicated three decades to ministry and believes his path to ministry was divinely influenced. "Almost 30 years ago, I couldn't deny it. God was calling me to serve people in local churches, so I said yes," he said.
Home News Episcopal diocese helps provide over 100K meals for people in Gaza

A diocese of The Episcopal Church says it has raised enough funds to provide over 100,000 meals to those in need in the war-torn Gaza Strip amid Israel's ongoing offensive against the terror group Hamas.

The Episcopal Diocese of New York and the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in Manhattan recently urged churchgoers and supporters to help provide donations to the World Central Kitchen's "One Day's Food for Gaza" program.

New York Bishop Matthew Heyd told The Christian Post on Tuesday there was a "terrific response" from the community, which contributed around $50,000 to support more than 100,000 meals through WCK, a food charity founded by chef Jose Andres to help those impacted by war or disasters. WCK has provided millions of meals to Gazans in the last two years.

Heyd said the support is part of a series of efforts that the diocese has undertaken since Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas and other terrorists launched a coordinated attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Over 240 hostages were taken. In response, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza to eradicate Hamas, which has controlled the strip since 2007, and free the hostages. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry claims over 60,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war. That figure doesn't differentiate between combatants and civilians.

"There's been so much pain since the Oct. 7 attacks," said Heyd. "We've spoken out since Oct. 7 about all the people affected. Condemning Hamas and calling for the release of hostages, calling for a free flow of aid into Gaza, speaking up with partners in New York against antisemitism and Islamophobia."

Last summer, the diocese donated funds toward the Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza, which is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, and plans to host the archbishop of Jerusalem for a visit to New York in the fall.

"In the feeding of the multitudes in Matthew, Mark and Luke, Jesus said to the disciples' You give them something to eat,'" Heyd said.

"Supporting World Central Kitchen's efforts is a way that we can make a difference in a catastrophic situation. Care for each other reflects God's love for us."

Carrie Hayes, director of media and communications strategy at World Central Kitchen, told CP that while there is no "larger formal relationship" between her organization and the diocese, she is "thankful for their support and the support of every individual and organization that raises funding for WCK."

In April of last year, seven members of WCK were killed in Gaza when the Israel Defense Forces struck an aid convoy that delivered food to a local warehouse. Among those killed were workers from Australia, Poland, the United Kingdom and a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.

Soon after, the IDF acknowledged that errors were made on their part that led to the attack and vowed to take disciplinary action against those responsible for the tragedy.

Earlier this week, The Jerusalem Post reported that five Hamas terrorists had recently disguised themselves as volunteers with WCK and put a WCK emblem on a car to attack IDF personnel.

The five terrorists were taken out by an airstrike, while the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, an Israeli military unit overseeing civilian affairs in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, confirmed that the individuals and vehicle were not tied to WCK.

In a statement, WCK stressed that "the vehicle and persons of interest were not affiliated with WCK."

"We strongly condemn anyone posing as WCK or other humanitarians as this endangers civilians and aid workers," the WCK statement reads. "The safety and security of our teams are our top priority."

WCK's field kitchens in Gaza have been halted twice in 2025 due to a lack of supplies. The most recent five-day suspension ended on July 25. WCK operations in Gaza were also paused for about two months, ending in June, due to supply shortages.
Home News Okla. governor champions new law keeping men out of women's prisons 'Oklahoma has now ended the injustice of men in womens prisons,' ADF pres. says

At an event on Monday, Republican Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt highlighted multiple bills he recently signed into law, including Senate Bill 418, which prohibits prison officials from housing men in women's correctional facilities.

The bill also requires the Oklahoma Department of Corrections to classify bathrooms, changing areas and sleeping quarters as being exclusively for either male or female inmates. It is set to take effect on Nov. 1.

We were going to make sure we were protecting women's spaces in Oklahoma," said Stitt at the event, according to The Oklahoman.

Kristen Waggoner, president of the Alliance Defending Freedom, took to X on Tuesday to celebrate the legislation, thanking Stitt for defending vulnerable women and biological reality.

Validating a mans feelings or desires should never come at the expense of womens safety. Thankfully, Oklahoma has now ended the injustice of men in womens prisons, she tweeted.

Introduced in February and authored by state Sen. Julie Daniels, SB 418 was passed by the Senate in a vote of 39 to 8, and then passed by the House by a vote of 77 to 15.

Critics of the law included state Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt, a Democrat, who told The South Bend Tribune earlier this year that she believed SB 418 was unnecessary.

That bill doesnt solve a problem in the lives of Oklahomans, she claimed. It is nothing more than politics and a distraction from what Oklahomans sent us here to do.

In a statement released in May when the bill was signed, Daniels said it was necessary because the state's laws didn't overtly prevent officials from placing men in womens prisons.

Current policies do not completely rule out the possibility of housing inmates of opposite sexes together, she stated at the time.

I felt it was important, especially for the protection of female inmates, to make it unmistakably clear in state law that this will not be permitted in Oklahoma prisons.

Some states have allowed male inmates to be housed in women's prisons even if they have a history of physical and sexual violence toward women.

While advocates of this have argued that it's intended to keep men who identify as women safe from abuse in male prisons, critics have pointed out that it puts women in danger.

Amie Ichikawa, a former inmate and the founder of the women's advocacy group Woman II Woman, has publicly denounced state governments that house men in women's prisons, which she experienced in California.

In a bonus episode of The Christian Post podcast series "Generation Indoctrination: Inside The Transgender Battle," Ichikawa recalled feeling "helpless" during her incarceration when men were first allowed to be housed with women.

"Just to know that you have absolutely no control over your environment, your own physical wellbeing, your mental health, nothing. And there's really no one you can talk to about it," she said.
Home News Outdoor Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration celebrates 100 years: 'No secret what God can do'

An outdoor Episcopal Church cathedral in Virginia celebrated 100 years of operation this month at a service featuring former Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry.

The Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration, an outdoor worship space located at a retreat property in Orkney Springs known as Shrine Mont in western Shenandoah County, turned one century old last Wednesday.

A ceremony was held that day, with Curry preaching the sermon. He wished the property a happy birthday, then jokingly added that "you don't look a day over 30."

Curry told those gathered that the founders of the outdoor cathedral "could not have dreamed what this sacred place would do in generations in their time yet unborn." He added that they couldn't have predicted how many people have been "touched and changed and transformed here at Shrine Mont" over the decades.

"They could not have known the people who would pass through this way," Curry said. "Diocese of Virginia, Shrine Mont, at this 100th anniversary, I'm here to tell you, it is no secret what God can do."

The outdoor cathedral was consecrated by the Rt. Rev. William Cabell Brown in 1925, with worship services held at 11 a.m. on Sundays from early April until mid-November.

Based in the western mountains of the commonwealth, the property is not only a place of worship but also has a conference center for gatherings by various groups.

A representative of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia directed The Christian Post to a statement on the centennial milestone.

"I give thanks to God for 100 years of faithful ministry at Shrine Mont," said Virginia Bishop E. Mark Stevenson.

"May it continue  by God's grace  to be a sacred place of welcome, formation, and renewal, where disciples are shaped to share Christ's love with the world."

According to Shrine Mont Director of Development Kirk Gibson, the Shrine Mont property is not directly supported by the regional body, but rather keeps "a relationship of financial independence."

"The diocese does what they do so well, which is programming and outreach into the parishes. And what Shrine Mont does is provide the facility, amenities, meals, and hospitality," explained Gibson.

"Our 100 years of success is because of that tight relationship with the diocese and that very clear distinction in what we do and what the diocese does."
Home News Pastor Jack Hibbs urges California pastors to civically engage: 'My heart is heavy for my state'

RANCHO PALOS VERDES, Calif.  Pastor Jack Hibbs, a prominent minister in California, urged fellow pastors in his state not to shirk from civic engagement as they face what he implied is a demonic assault from their own state government.

"I come before you guys today as a native Californian," Hibbs, who serves as senior pastor of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, told those gathered at Turning Point USA's recent Faith Forward Pastors Summit last week.

"I have been fighting for this state for 35 years, but I want to speak directly to the California pastor that's in the room today," he said.

"This state is the greatest state in this nation, and that's why I think it is the absolute target of the enemy. The greatest innovations, the greatest achievements, some of the greatest movements in the Church have happened in California."

"Satan knows this, and when I look across the landscape of the American pulpit, the California pulpit, if we don't get this next argument right in showing up during the battle, then I don't know how it's going to go for California," he added.

Reiterating one of his sermons that made headlines earlier this month, warning Christians in California they might need to flee the state, Hibbs urged fellow California pastors to join him at the state Capitol in Sacramento on Aug. 19 in his planned appeal to Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom against Assembly Bill 495.

The proposed state legislation purports to address "unique challenges faced by immigrant families" under the Trump administration's mass deportation efforts. But Hibbs has argued it poses a threat to child welfare by potentially empowering a "caregiver" who might not be a family member to make critical medical decisions for a child and effectively kidnap them.

During his speech at the summit, Hibbs warned the bill could set a precedent that "will invade 49 other states."

Hibbs went on to reference fellow event speaker Eric Metaxas, who immediately preceded him and spoke about the importance of Christians living out their faith boldly by not shying away from speaking out regarding the Gospel's implications on critical political and cultural issues.

"If I hear one more word, 'I just preach the Gospel, brother,' you need to repent of that!" Hibbs said. "Because you're supposed to preach the Gospel, that's a given. We are called to make disciples of those who we preach the Gospel to. We are pastors."

"On August 19, I'm asking you to join me. I'm going to go to the Capitol and I'm going to appeal to Newsom to reject this bill," he said.

Hibbs noted the example of the apostle Paul, who exercised his rights and political power as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar regarding his unjust treatment, as recounted in Acts 25:11.

"He appeals to Caesar because he's a Roman citizen," Hibbs told his listeners. "He uses that political power, pastor, that was given to him by God. He's a Roman citizen. Are you in California? You are a California pastor, over the largest state in the nation; 40-some-odd million people live here, and you're a pastor here. We've been called to stand and present and to speak the truth without apology."

Hibbs further exhorted pastors listening to him that, like Paul, they ought not to fear negative consequences of standing up for righteousness amid the rising tide of cultural antipathy toward Christianity.

"It's going to be uncomfortable," he said. "You've got to do it  I'm speaking to the pastors right now  your flock needs you to stand up and point the way. Your flock needs you to stand up. And you need to say, 'This is what we're going to do.'"

"We are called to make disciples of those who we preach the gospel to. We are pastors!"@realjackhibbs live at FFPS 2025 pic.twitter.com/LBudwILbSg  TPUSA Faith (@tpusafaith) August 8, 2025

Hibbs closed by leading the entire room in a group prayer to invoke the Holy Spirit as they seek to do their duty in their spheres of influence. His message echoed that of other speakers at the event, who emphasized the necessity of Christians standing up in the public square.

Hibbs has been critical of California's government in the past, earlier this year describing it during a sermon as a "third-world state" that is being led by "horrific politicians."
August 13, 2025: The current American president ordered audits organizations many had long suspected of diverting the money to recipients that would support anti American groups, lavish salaries for pro-government officials as well as foreign nation officials who responded to large bribes to see things the American way or just to oblige the recipients to one day return or carry out tasks requested by the current president.

Over 250 NGOs received most of this money and distributed according to what the current American president wanted. The recent U.S. government audits of most of these activities continued into 2025 because the NGOs and their government handlers believed they were immune to fraud claims because their activities served the wishes of whatever Presidential administration was in power. They were wrong and audits named names, and suggested cutting the money off and prosecuting those responsible. Those investigations and prosecutions continue.

The current government wants to destroy these practices. This does not surprise a lot of Americans who already knew that something like this was suspected because there had been rumors and stories in the news detailing some of this malpractice. These accusations were always ignored or denied.

For example, the UN, and non-governmental organizations/NGOs in general, have had to deal with the harmful side effects of their good works. The worst side effect is how rebels and bandits sustain themselves by stealing food and other aid supplies, as well as robbing the NGO workers themselves. Initially, the main UN complaint was the increasing attacks on aid workers. At one point, about twenty aid workers a year were killed, and hundreds assaulted and even more robbed. This is a trend that has been on the march upward for several years. Islamic radicals have been particularly active in terrorizing and killing the foreigners who are there to help them. About half of the recent incidents take place in Sudan, where UN aid workers are caught between pro-government militias, bandits and anti-government rebels. All see the UN, and other, aid workers as a source of income and supplies. In Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan, there are also problems with Islamic radicals keen on chasing out all non-Moslem foreigners.

At the core of this problem is not the UN, but the concept of NGOs in general. A good example of how this works occurred when the Afghan government threatened to expel all NGOs. The NGOs were accused of failing to get aid programs moving, and spending aid money to further their own ends. The NGOs in Afghanistan controlled over a billion dollars in foreign aid each year, and the government was simply joining many Afghans in complaining about the NGOs being more concerned about their own safety and comfort, than in making the lives of Afghans better. It's not as simple as that.

NGOs are, for the most part, charitable organizations that take money from individuals, organizations and governments, and use it for charitable work in foreign countries. Founded in 1863, the Red Cross is one of the oldest, and best known NGOs, although the Catholic church had been doing similar work for centuries. In the mid-20th century, the UN and its many aid agencies became the largest NGO. In the late 20th century, the number of NGOs grew explosively. Now there are thousands of them, providing work for hundreds of thousands of people. The NGO elite are well educated people from Western countries that solicit donations, or go off to disaster areas and apply money, equipment and supplies to alleviate some natural or man-made disaster. Governments have been so impressed by the efficiency of NGOs that they have contracted them to perform foreign aid and disaster relief work that was once done by government employees.

Problems, however, have developed. The Western employees of NGOs, while not highly paid, and infused with a certain degree of idealism, do bring to disaster areas a bunch of outsiders who have a higher standard of living and different ideas. Several decades ago, the main thing these outsiders brought with them was food and medical care. The people on the receiving end were pretty desperate, and grateful for the help.

But NGOs eventually moved into development and social programs. This caused unexpected problems with the local leadership. Development programs disrupt the existing economic, and political, relations. The local leaders are often not happy with this, as the NGOs are not always willing to work closely with the existing power structure. While the local politicians may be exploitative, and even corrupt, they are local, and they do know more about popular attitudes and ideals than the foreigners. NGOs with social programs like education, especially educating women, plus new lifestyle choices and more power for people who don't usually have much), often run into conflict with the local leadership. Naturally, the local politicians and traditional leaders have resisted, or even fought back. Thus the Afghan government officials called for all NGOs in the country to be shut down. That included Afghan NGOs, who were doing some of the same work as the foreign ones. The government officials were responding to complaints from numerous old school Afghan tribal and religious leaders who were unhappy with all these foreigners, or urban Afghans with funny ideas, upsetting the ancient ways in the countryside.

NGOs are not military organizations, but they can fight back. They do this mainly through the media, because they also use favorable media coverage to propel their fund raising efforts. NGOs will also ask, or demand, that the UN or other foreign governments send in peacekeeping troops to protect the NGOs from hostile locals. This had disastrous effects in Somalia during the early 1990s. Some NGOs remained, or came back, to Somalia after the peacekeepers left. These NGOs learned how to cope on their own. They hired local muscle for protection, as well as cutting deals with the local warlords. But eventually the local Islamic radicals became upset at the alien ideas these Western do-gooders brought with them, and began to chase all NGOs out.

In eastern Congo, aid workers have found themselves the primary target of the local bandits and militias that had created the problems that attracted the foreign aid in the first place. NGOs have learned to raise mini-armies when they want to. But in areas where there are peacekeepers, and the NGOs believe they are not being well served, the NGOs will often simply depart, amid a flurry of press releases, to show their displeasure at the security arrangements, or the political goals of the peacekeepers.

But then came Afghanistan and Iraq, two places where many local leaders thought it served their interests best if there were no NGOs at all. Throughout the world, NGOs are finding that the world has changed. NGOs will never be the same after what's happened during the last decade.

NGOs have formal legal recognition in many countries, and internationally they, as a group, have some standing. NGOs have become a player in international affairs, even though individual NGOs each have their own, independent, outlook on world affairs. But as a group, they are a power to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, there is no leader of all the NGOs you can negotiate with. Each one has to be dealt with separately. Since NGOs also come from many different countries and have members that speak English, peacekeepers can also run into language and cultural customs problems. NGOs have turned out to be another good idea that, well, got complicated in unexpected ways.

This move from delivering aid, to delivering often unwelcome ideas, has put all NGOs at risk. The NGOs have become players in a worldwide civil war between local traditional ideas, and the more transnational concepts that trigger violent reactions in many parts of the world. Now, concerned about doing more harm than good, NGOs are discussing among themselves how to deal with some of the dangerous conditions their presence creates.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump is poised to sign a sweeping executive order forcing universities to report admissions data by race in a new assault on affirmative action. The directive is part of the administration's broader strategy to dismantle race-conscious admissions practices and tighten federal oversight of higher education.

What the Order Involves

According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt in a statement on social media platform X, the order "mandating universities to disclose admissions data related to race" will require institutions to hand over detailed demographic breakdownsostensibly to prove they are not aiding affirmative action initiatives.

While the order's consequences for non-compliant institutions are not yet specified, the administration has already hinted at the possibility of withholding funding from universities that support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

Context in Trump's Education Agenda

This move is consistent with the administration's broader efforts this term. In January 2025, Trump signed Executive Order 14151, titled "Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing", which mandated the termination of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility roles across federal agencies.

Earlier this year, Trump also targeted higher education accrediting agencies, instructing his Education Secretary to strip recognition from any that required a demonstrated commitment to diversity in gender, race, or ethnicity actions that critics argue overstep legal bounds.

Why It Matters

This executive order arrives against the backdrop of legal rulings and investigations reshaping admissions policy nationwide. Notably, in June 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down race-based admissions at Harvard and UNC as unconstitutional, pushing many institutions toward race-neutral alternatives such as socioeconomic targeting.

Moreover, the Education Department under Trump has already initiated civil rights investigations into universitiesincluding Dukeover claims of racial preferences in admissions, hiring, and scholarship decisions.
Abonati-va sa primiti pe email saptamanal lista articolelor adaugate pe parcursul saptamanii. Adresele .ru nu sunt acceptate.

Email NEWSLETTER
A man has been jailed for defrauding a church and an education charity out of more than 285,000.

Terence Capstick had worked as a volunteer treasurer for the Winslow Parish Church and as a grantmaker for the Rogers Free Educational Trust when he committed the offences between January 2019 and October 2023.

During this period, he stole 163,000 from the churchs bank account and 122,052 from the educational trusts account.

Capstick, 75, was sentenced last week at Aylesbury Crown Court to four years in prison for two counts of fraud by abuse of position.

He had pleaded guilty on 20 May at High Wycombe Magistrates Court after being arrested on 19 March and charged on 23 April.

Systematic abuse of a position of trust

Detective constable Ross Acland, of the Thames Valley Polices central fraud unit, said that the outcome was the correct result and that Capstick had systematically abused the position of trust he was placed in through greed and solely for personal gain.

Acland added: Over the course of more than four years he has taken community funds earmarked for good causes and used them to fund his own lifestyle.

The Bishop of Buckingham, Dave Bull, said: We are very grateful for the work of Thames Valley Police and the Courts service for bringing this regrettable case to justice.

Fraud is a crime which has far reaching consequences, not least the financial viability of a parish, and we are glad to have the clarity and certainty we needed regarding the actions of the former treasurer to St Laurence, Winslow.

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,




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In March, Rebecca Holland, an Italy-based reporter for the military newspaper Stars and Stripes, reported that an army mentorship group for female paratroopers at a base in Vicenza, Italy, had opened to male participation, in order to comply with new Trump administration restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Soon after the story was published, Holland received a call from a public affairs officer, reprimanding her. She tried to say that I couldnt come on the base, and I needed her permission to come onto the base in the future, which is definitely not true, Holland said.

Stars and Stripes is a newspaper for the military community, which has been continually published since World War II. It is partly funded by the Pentagon, and its employees are technically employees of the Department of Defense, but its editorial independence, which is mandated by Congress, has long been held sacrosanct. It is the embodiment of the First Amendment, said Kathy Kiely, chair in free press studies at the University of Missouri. Its published by the Pentagon, and yet its free to criticize the Pentagon. But the exchange with the public affairs officer, just a couple of months into the Trump administration, suggested to Holland and others at the paper that perhaps this dynamic was changing. Holland, who left the paper in June for a reporting job at another outlet, said that at the beginning of the year, she sat through team meetings where her takeaway was that staff should not make too much trouble with the administration. We had a lot of meetings about, like, we basically just dont want to draw attention to Stars and Stripes, Holland said.

In many ways, Stars and Stripes has been one of the lucky ones. During the first Trump administration the paper seemed to be on the verge of losing its fundinga threat the White House has since followed through on with the nations public broadcasters. After an outcry from a bipartisan group of lawmakers and veterans, Trump announced that he would spare the publication. It will continue to be a wonderful source of information to our Great Military! he said, in a 2020 social media post. The outlet was also protected earlier this year when several major outlets were removed from their dedicated office space at the Pentagon.

I see whats going on with other journalism organizations, said Jacqueline Smith, the papers ombudsman. Id be naive to not be concerned. Smith is among several staffers who point to a growing challenge of getting information from military public affairs officers, or PAOs. In a March email to editorial staff, obtained by CJR, Erik Slavin, Stars and Stripes Europe and Mideast bureau chief, acknowledged that interactions with PAOs had become more complicated. Im seeing concerning behavior among some commands/PAOs in various theaters, which I believe stem from fear of the appearance of stepping out of line with the changes in Washington, Slavin wrote. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining journalistic rigor: The bigger part of our job is to report what is newsworthy and uphold the principle of first amendment access to service members and the military community. We will scrupulously maintain balance and avoid the implication of bias to the maximum extent possible, he wrote.

In an email to CJR, Slavin said he sent the memo after a new public affairs officer told a Stars and Stripes reporter she wasnt allowed to talk to the paper. He added that he resolved that matter after speaking with the PAOs superior, who said the junior officer spoke in error. In any new administration, there are changes in government, Slavin said. That does not change our mission to be as balanced, unbiased, and objective as humanly possible for the benefit of the military community we serve. We have reinforced our standards of newsgathering. But they havent changed. Longtime publisher Max Lederer told CJR that there is always an ebb and flow when it comes to interacting with public affairs officers, but denied that it had gotten harder, or that the paper was adjusting its coverage to avoid drawing negative attention from the administration. Theres always that possibility that the paper could be turned into a military mouthpiece, Lederer saidbut his main worry these days is that it would simply be defunded for budgetary reasons.

Smith tries to take comfort in the idea that the administration has learned its lesson from the backlash during the first term. I dont feel like theres any particular protection that Stripes has right now, she said, other than lets hope that, from the first time, when you saw the great support that came out to continue the Stripes, that they wouldnt want to go through all that again.
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a proposed settlement to resolve claims against Greystar Management Services LLC as part of an ongoing enforcement against anticompetitive practices in rental markets across the country.

Greystar, a residential property manager headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, also considered the largest landlord in the U.S., manages a reported 950,000 rental units across the nation.

Greystar and other landlords, including five co-defendants, allegedly shared competitively sensitive data to generate pricing recommendations using RealPages algorithms, which also included anticompetitive rules that aligned competitors pricing.

Greystar and other landlords also discussed competitively sensitive topics that included including pricing strategies, rents, and selected parameters for RealPages software, according to the DOJ.

If approved by the court, the proposed consent decree would require Greystar to:
As wildfires raged across Los Angeles in January, a state official parried an email from a resident living on the edge of the conflagration: When would long-delayed regulations designed to protect high-risk homes like hers be implemented?

I do not have a timeline for you, replied Edith Hannigan, then the executive officer of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, the agency charged with drafting regulations requiring ember-resistant zones around homes. I hope you and your loved ones are well during this fire siege.

Related: KCC Completes Review of California Wildfire Model

With climate-driven wildfires now capable of raining flaming embers down on far away neighborhoods, scientists say removing vegetation, wood gates and other combustible material within five feet of a home to create an ember-resistant zone is one of the most effective ways to avert an urban firestorm. California in 2020 had enacted a law that mandates the establishment of such protections, called Zone Zero, in wildfire-vulnerable communities.

The forestry board, however, had missed a January 2023 deadline to approve regulations to put Zone Zero into force  and the rules remained in limbo when L.A. burned.

The board had balked at insurance lobbyists and fire officials demand for stringent protections while the governors office worried about the cost to homeowners, according to documents obtained by Bloomberg Green in a public records request. And from the Berkeley Hills to Beverly Hills, some homeowners resisted the prospect of removing coast live oaks, manzanitas and other beloved plants and trees in heavily-vegetated urban neighborhoods.

More than six months after the LA catastrophe, officials have yet to complete regulations as wildfires burn across the state this week. Amid a late-summer heat wave on Friday, nearly 3,000 people fled a rapidly growing blaze near Los Angeles County.

The discord over Zone Zero underscores the disconnect between accelerating climate threats and the aesthetic price Californians are prepared to pay to protect their communities. In a state particularly at risk from disasters, the political system has not always been well-suited to taking decisive action given resistance from regulators and residents who can be reluctant to adopt changes that can remake the look of their communities.

Its the gamblers fallacy, says Gabrielle Wong-Parodi, a Stanford University scientist who studies peoples decision-making in reaction to climate change. People tend to think that if a fire just happened its not going to happen again, or if it hasnt happened its not going to happen.

Independent investigators who sifted through the ruins of Altadena, Pacific Palisades and other neighborhoods razed by the L.A. fires concluded that had the Zone Zero regulations been in place as the law required, they would have curtailed the destruction that resulted in the loss of some 16,000 homes and 31 lives.

Theres no doubt in my mind that this level of damage wouldve been avoided, says one of those investigators, Steve Hawks, senior director for wildfire at the nonprofit Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety and a former official with Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency.

I think thats true but well never know how much, says California Board of Forestry chair Terrence OBrien, who joined the organization last year.

In the aftermath of the L.A. fires, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a Feb. 6 executive order directing the forestry board to issue initial draft regulations within 45 days, which its done, and adopt a final version by years end. But the conflicts that had stalled their enactment remain unresolved.

Hannigan didnt respond to interview requests. The governors office referred questions about the delay in implementing Zone Zero to the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), which oversees the forestry board. Developing Zone 0 regulations is a complex task, spokesperson Kirsten Macintyre said in an email. She noted the agency had spent the past years gathering additional information on the science of ember-resistant zones, the compliance costs and financial assistance for homeowners.

Its a really thorny issue, so it doesnt surprise me that before I came onboard, the board was wrestling with this issue and was having a difficult time dealing with it, says OBrien.

This was the new reality

For more than a century California wildfires regularly burned in the states heavily-forested hinterlands while urban infernos were a once-in-a-generation phenomenon. Hollywood stars lost their homes in the 1961 Bel Air wildfire in L.A. and the 1991 Oakland-Berkeley Hills firestorm destroyed 3,000 homes and killed 25 people. Nearly another 30 years passed before the 2017 Tubbs Fire, when embers carried by near hurricane-force winds from a fast-moving Wine Country wildfire ignited a suburban Santa Rosa neighborhood called Coffey Park.

You didnt immediately see the insurance industry react to that because there had been nothing since 1991 and maybe Coffey Park was a one-off thing, says Seren Taylor, vice president of the Personal Insurance Federation of California, a lobbying group for the states major carriers. Then the next year the Camp Fire incinerated more than 18,000 homes in the Sierra Nevada foothills community of Paradise and 85 residents died. Wildfire had not been perceived as a top-tier threat like an earthquake but now it was obvious that this was the new reality, he says.

As experts scrambled to study rapidly changing wildfire behavior and how homes caught fire, they determined that two strategies would be most effective at protecting neighborhoods. One was to harden homes against wildfire by installing fire-resistant roofs and exterior siding along with tempered double-paned windows and mesh screens over vents to prevent flying embers from entering a dwelling. (California law requires houses constructed after 2008 in high-risk wildfire zones be hardened but the mandate doesnt apply to older homes in those areas, which constitute the vast majority of the housing stock in California.)

The second was to build what amounts to a nonflammable moat around a home to prevent embers from alighting on anything next to a house that could burn and ignite the structure. Of particular concern are wood gates and fences attached to a home since once lit by embers they burn like a fuse to a bomb.

Related: Newsom Seeks $18B for Utilities Wildfire Fund as California Faces Future Blazes

Scientists who have analyzed data on 47,000 structures destroyed or damaged in five California wildfires between 2017 and 2020 and examined satellite imagery of surrounding vegetation, projected that Zone Zero would nearly double home survival rates. Doing this on a community level dramatically reduces risk, Michael Gollner, a University of California at Berkeley fire scientist and one of the researchers, recently told the forestry board.

On the morning of Sept. 9, 2020, the skies over the San Francisco Bay Area turned an apocalyptic orange from the smoke of 20 large wildfires burning across Northern California. Less than two weeks later, Newsom signed into law legislation mandating the establishment of ember-resistant zones in areas designated as a very high fire hazard severity zone. The forestry board had until Jan. 1, 2023 to issue regulations.

Out of step with the science

By October 2022, that deadline seemed within reach. The draft of proposed regulations was under review by the governors office with the expectation that they would be adopted in a few months time, according to forestry board staff emails.

Crafted with the input of scientists, fire officials, insurance industry representatives and members of the public, the draft, however, still allowed for grass lawns, ground cover and small plants within five feet of a home. The board, at the time, made it very clear that they did not support a noncombustible zone and wouldnt vote for one, Hannigan, then the executive officer, recounted in a February 2025 email sent to current board chair OBrien the day after Newsoms order to finalize the regulations.

Insurance lobbyists had warned the board in a letter that the 2022 draft regulations were too lax, out of step with wildfire science and would endanger high-risk communities. The Office of the State Fire Marshall also objected on similar grounds. Both took their concerns to the governors office, according to forestry board documents.

Homeowners, meanwhile, were raising red flags about the potential cost of complying with Zone Zero. It will be extremely expensive and unaffordable for thousands of homeowners, wrote a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes in Los Angeles County to the forestry board in April 2023. The California Natural Resources Agency, which is in charge of the forestry board, also expressed concerns over the boards estimate that it would cost homeowners nearly $58 million to comply with the proposed regulations.

Insured losses from Januarys LA wildfires, on the other hand, could reach $45 billion, according to University of California at Los Angeles researchers.

Theres a huge disparity there between what the cost of Zone Zero may be and what happens if you have a catastrophic wildfire, says OBrien.

Nevertheless, in August 2023, CNRA officials put the regulations on hold. In her email to OBrien, Hannigan said the CNRA and the governors office spent most of 2024 trying to find funding that could alleviate that burden on homeowners. Work on the regulations, she told OBrien, was expected to be resurrected in 2025. Then came the LA firestorms.

We have to live differently

Since the January wildfires, the forestry board has held workshops to gather public input on Zone Zero, issuing updated draft regulations almost monthly.

It comes down to, how much of the science can we ignore in order to get buy-in from the public, says Taylor, the insurance lobbyist.

Theres some 2 million homes in high-risk wildfire areas subject to Zone Zero located in ecosystems that range from mountain woodland hamlets to lushly landscaped coastal cities. Some are on acres of land, others sit within feet of their neighbors. All homeowners, though, could be required to establish the same ember-resistant zones around their dwellings.

Firefighters and insurance executives continue to press for a strictly noncombustible Zone Zero, warning that vulnerable communities otherwise will become increasingly uninsurable and risk destruction from urban firestorms. In comments at workshops and emails to the forestry board, though, some homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes, detailed their worries about the cost of compliance and resisted the loss of greenery and privacy, particularly in neighborhoods where just a few feet separate houses.

Even for some Angelenos whose neighborhoods nearly burned in the January wildfires, Zone Zero crosses a line of beauty they cant accept. Its going to be devastating, there will be no birds, it will be hotter, a resident of Brentwood, an affluent and verdant enclave adjacent to Pacific Palisades, said at an April forestry board meeting.

The latest draft regulations require wood gates and vegetation to be removed from Zone Zero with the exception of small plants in noncombustible pots and well-pruned trees. Once adopted, the regulations apply to new construction but owners of existing homes have three years to comply.

The frank reality, says Yana Valachovic, a University of California wildfire scientist closely involved with the regulations development, is that we have to live differently in California.

Top photo: An aerial view of homes that burned in the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California. Photographer: Mario Tama/Getty Images.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Karl Racine resigned Wednesday as the head of the team that monitors Cleveland police reform. John Kuntz, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio  The monitor overseeing court-ordered Cleveland police reform resigned on Wednesday after months of clashes with city officials.

Karl Racine, who took over as the lead monitor of the 10-year-old consent decree, tendered his resignation during a monthly meeting in front of U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver.

Oliver praised the work of Racine and others from his law firm, Hogan Lovells, who worked on the consent decree for more than two years.

The oversight, advice, and feedback that you and the Monitoring Team have provided during your tenure has significantly benefitted the court and the parties, Oliver told Racine, according to court order issued by the judge.

Racine did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

A statement from a city spokesperson called Racines resignation unexpected.

As such, we will have internal discussions in the coming days to discuss next steps, the statement said.

The consent decree monitor holds a key position for the reform mandated by a 2015 agreement between Cleveland and the U.S. Department of Justice to ensure constitutional policing in the city.

The city entered into the agreement after the Justice Department issued a scathing report in December 2014 that said city police officers too often used excessive force, that the department was inadequately trained in several areas and that police brass did not hold officers accountable for wrongdoing.

The monitor leads a team that conducts regular meetings with the city and Justice Department, reviews the work they do in implementing court-mandated reforms and issues reports detailing the success and failures of the police department.

Oliver appointed Racine, a former Washington, D.C. attorney general, as monitor in April 2023. He was the third monitor and served the shortest amount of time.

In recent months, Racine and the citys law department sparred over a range of issues. During a June hearing, Oliver said the relationship became tighter and intense.

He said the work on reform had become bogged down with issues raised by Cleveland officials, including a dispute over the monitoring teams billings to the city and another over whether the monitors fully explained to the city their assessment of the progress the city has made.

The city also raised issues about the monitoring teams access to city records that contained information from the state and federal crime databases that took months to resolve.

The disputes became so time consuming that Oliver ordered monthly meetings to more quickly resolve disputes.

The progress under the consent decree appeared to slow during that time frame. A Cleveland Community Police Commission study released in April found that the department had only completed about 45% of reforms called for in the consent decree and had inched forward only 3% since 2023.

Racines resignation also comes at a time when the Justice Department, at the order of President Donald Trump, is reviewing all of its current police consent decrees to see if any should be changed or closed.

Oliver on Wednesday appointed Racines temporary replacement during a search for a permanent monitor.

He chose Christine Cole, a former executive director of the non-partisan research group Crime and Justice Institute and of Harvard Kennedy School of Governments Program in Criminal Justice Policy and Management. She has been part of the consent decree monitoring team since its inception in 2015.

Given Ms. Coles tenure with the Cleveland Consent Decree and her extensive work overseeing compliance assessments, the court is confident that momentum towards full compliance will not be lost during this transition, Oliver wrote in his order.

The monitoring team also added former Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody Stewart. Stewart was the first Black woman elected to the high court and served one term from 2018 through 2024. She was defeated in the 2024 election by Republican Justice Joseph Deters.

The court anticipates that Justice Stewarts prior work as an assistant law director for the cities of Cleveland and East Cleveland, as well as her judicial experience, will immediately and immeasurably position her to contribute to the Cleveland Monitoring Teams efforts in working with the City to move toward full compliance with the Decree, Oliver wrote.
The Columbus skyline as seen from Battelle Park along the Scioto River in downtown Columbus. David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- President Donald Trump is preparing to take over Washington D.C.s police force, citing the citys crime rates.

The presidents takeover and his stated motivation have led some local officials to wonder if Trump would try something similar with Cleveland, which has a higher crime rate than the nations capital, cleveland.com reported previously.

But Cleveland is not the only Ohio city that had a higher crime rate in 2024 than Washington D.C. Toledo and Dayton also share that designation, according to FBI data.

The FBI considers violent crimes to include homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault. Property crimes include a larger list such as arson, burglary, theft and motor vehicle theft, according to the bureaus website.

So how does Cleveland stack up against other Ohio cities crime rates? The following figures are based on FBI data for the number of violent/property crimes reported by the citys main police department in 2024 and each citys estimated 2024 population.

Violent crime per 100,000 people:

Cleveland: 1,550

Dayton: 1,325

Toledo: 1,048

Washington D.C.: 926

Cincinnati: 840

Akron: 814

Columbus: 427

Ohio average: 282.3

Property crime per 100,000 people:

Toledo: 5,049

Cleveland: 4,447

Dayton: 4,321

Cincinnati: 3,789

Washington D.C.: 3,588

Akron: 2,954

Columbus: 2,605

Ohio average: 1,472

Trump cited out of control crime in D.C. as justification for the 30-day federal takeover and deployment of 1,300 federal personnel, including National Guardsmen and law enforcement agents. However, data shows D.C. homicides dropped 32% from 2023 to 2024, and its violent and property crime rates remain lower than Clevelands.

Cleveland City Council President Blaine Griffin warned the move could set a dangerous precedent.

This might be only the first of many moves that this administration is going to try to do to take over local police departments, Griffin said, expressing fears of a shift toward authoritarian governance.

Daniel Flannery, director of the Begun Center for Violence Prevention at Case Western Reserve University, questioned the rationale behind Trumps actions and suggested the intervention may be politically motivated rather than data-driven.
The U.S. Department of State has issued new travel advisories for Brazil and the United Arab Emirates, urging travelers to exercise increased caution. Getty Images

The U.S. Department of State has issued new travel advisories for Brazil and the United Arab Emirates. The agency is urging travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting the two destinations.

Both received Level 2 advisories, the second-lowest tier on the agencys four-level travel warning system.

In its advisory for Brazil, the State Department cited rising crime and kidnapping concerns, particularly in urban areas, Parade reports.

Violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, and carjacking, can occur in urban areas, day and night. There was a kidnapping for ransom of U.S. travelers, the agency said.

Travelers are advised to avoid informal housing developments such as favelas and vilas, as well as border regions shared with Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela.

Officials also warned that gang activity and organized crime are widespread, often linked to the recreational drug trade, and that assaults involving sedatives or drugs placed in drinks are common, particularly in Rio de Janeiro.

For the UAE, the advisory noted that while residents and visitors generally find the country safe, elevated regional tensions have increased the risk of terrorist activity, including aerial and other attacks.

Potential targets include tourist sites, transportation hubs, shopping centers, government buildings, places of worship, and locations connected to Jewish and Israeli communities.

Both advisories urge travelers to exercise increased caution, which the State Department defines as a moderate level of concern.

This story was written with the assistance of AI.
Ohio's supreme court has ruled that someone can be convicted of menacing by stalking without threatening their victim, having a prior relationship, or being told directly to stop. Here a lawyer argues before the court. Pictured are Justice Michael P. Donnelly, left, Justice Patrick Fisher and Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- When it comes to online behavior, threats arent the only content that crosses the legal line.

The Ohio Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that someone can be convicted of menacing by stalking without threatening their victim, having a prior relationship, or being told directly to stop.

The case involved a man named Dorian Crawl, who hadnt spoken to an unidentified Montgomery County woman since they attended the same elementary school.

In May 2022, the woman posted a 29th birthday photo on Instagram, and Crawl wrote, Happy Birthday, baby girl. I love you. Hope we can see each other sometime soon.

The woman didnt respond. But according to court documents, she posted a video six days later where Crawl commented: Where is this? Is this your house, boo?

Less than a month later, Crawl showed up at her apartment in West Carrollton. He knocked on the door, told her he was a friend, and turned the doorknob. Frightened, she locked the deadbolt, hid her 9-year-old daughter in a closet, and called police.

By the time an officer arrived, Crawl had left.

When police contacted Crawl, he admitted hed found her address online and still believed there was potential for a relationship.

He even told an officer he wanted to know why she hadnt asked him to prom. The officer warned him about showing up uninvited again, but Crawl kept sending her social media messages.

The woman testified in court that the encounter left her anxious and fearful. She installed cameras, had her boyfriend stay over more often, avoided being alone at night, and even looked for a new place to live.

A Miamisburg Municipal Court convicted Crawl of menacing by stalking.

He appealed, arguing that simply making non-threatening comments on someones public social media posts  especially when the person never says the comments are unwelcome  shouldnt be enough to prove he knowingly caused fear or mental anguish to support a conviction of stalking.

But Ohios highest court unanimously upheld his conviction.

Explicit threats are not necessary to establish the elements of menacing by stalking, Justice Megan Shanahan wrote for the majority.

The justices determined that Crawls actions formed a pattern of conduct that caused mental distress, even if some of them, when viewed in isolation, do not seem threatening.
Hainan's instant tax refund wins over foreign tourists

16:09, August 13, 2025 By Sun Haitian ( People's Daily

Chinese and foreign tourists shop in a duty-free mall in Haikou, south China's Hainan province, July 15, 2025. (Photo/Su Bikun)

"Before coming here, I assumed Sanya was only about sunshine and beaches," remarked Russian tourist Andrei. After spending a few days by the sea, his family headed to downtown Sanya, south China's Hainan province, for some shopping. Inside a mall, a poster advertising duty-free shopping for offshore passengers caught his eye.

"Offshore duty-free shopping applies mainly to domestic travelers departing the Hainan Island but remaining within China," explained Andrei's tour guide. "As an international traveler exiting China, you're entitled to another benefit - the departure tax refund."

"Another benefit?" Andrei became even more interested. While shopping, he picked out a pearl necklace for his wife and finally bought himself the mobile phone he had long wanted.

At checkout, the cashier reminded him, "Since your purchase exceeds 200 yuan ($27.82), you can apply for a departure tax refund." The refund threshold had been lowered from 500 yuan to 200 yuan. After issuing a tax refund application form, Andrei was directed to the mall's "instant tax refund" counter.

A staff member processed his passport and form, placing a temporary hold on his credit card: "For refunds under 20,000 yuan, you may choose immediate cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay transfer."

"Instantly?" Andrei was surprised.

Moments after he selected a refund method, a notification popped up on his phone confirming the refund had been deposited.

"The process was faster than ordering coffee," he commented, delighted. With the refunded money in hand, he immediately bought several boxes of Hainan coconut candy.

"Remarkable! It felt like an additional discount," he observed.

Andrei's shopping experience reflects a new trend in inbound tourism in Hainan. Citizens from 85 countries can now enter Hainan visa-free, and more foreign visitors are venturing beyond traditional resort areas into the city's lively streets, exploring a wider variety of shopping and leisure options.

"Streamlined tax refund services have strong appeal for tourists," said Wu Xiaolin, an official with the Sanya Tourism Board. "Independent travelers now make up about 50 percent of Sanya's inbound visitors. They tend to be younger, stay longer, and seek unique, in-depth cultural and lifestyle experiences. Initiatives like 'instant tax refunds' and mobile payment facilitation are helping to remove barriers to spending."

A few days later at Sanya Phoenix International Airport, Andrei visited a customs verification counter for the final confirmation step. Customs officers entered his passport number into the system; his traveler details and purchase records appeared instantly on a screen. The entire verification and stamping process took less than two minutes.

"We're enhancing clearance efficiency through multilingual support and digital systems, improving overseas visitors' experiences," said an official with the customs department in Haikou, capital of Hainan province.

"From lowered refund threshold, to the instant processing and automated verification at the airport, every step has been thoughtful and efficient," Andrei said, reflecting on the convenience of his trip.

Behind these positive experiences lies Hainan's ongoing effort to improve international connectivity and inbound facilitation policies. In the first half of this year, over 208,000 travelers entered Hainan visa-free through Sanya Phoenix International Airport, accounting for 88.54 percent of all inbound visitors at that airport. Across the province, the number of inbound overnight visitors reached 652,900, up 31.7 percent year on year.

Outside the airport terminal, Sanya's glittering night skyline spread. "The charm of a place often lies in the details," Andrei told his wife. "Next time, we're staying in Hainan for a few more days."

Foreign tourists visit the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Area in Sanya, south China's Hainan province, July 23, 2025. (Photo/Chen Wenwu)

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Wu Chaolan)
by Akim Reinhardt

I drive in silence these days. That in itself is nothing new. For years, my solo road trips across America have featured long stretches of near silence. Nothing coming from the speakers. No talk, no music, no pleading commercials. Just the whir of the road helping to clear my mind.

But not at home.

Tooling around Baltimore, whether commuting about twenty minutes each way or running some errands, I almost always have the radio on. Or at least I did. That started to change in January and February, though the issue dates back to last November.

Donald Trumps victory was not much of a surprise, but deeply depressing nonetheless. And it was the first time an election depressed me. Theres been no shortage of shitty politicians Ive hated to see win elections in the past. But this felt different. Maybe because Im a little older now and my perspective is changing. Maybe because it was so obvious there would be very few guard rails the second time around. Maybe because Trump really is a psychopathic rapist and aspiring dictator who has successfully chipped away at democratic norms while transforming the U.S. presidency into shameless kleptocracy while about a third of the electorate ardently roots him on. Whatever the reason, it was very clear to me that a new, very fucked up version of normal was about to unfold, and the one thing I could not stomach was reputable news agencies, dizzy with fear, doing everything they could to sound objective, which meant actively sticking their heads the sand and pretending that everything was still the old, familiar normal.

At the opening of Trumps second term, that was NPR to the max, for all the good it did them; it took Trumpists all of half a year to defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. As if you couldnt see it all coming. I certainly did, and I absolutely could not bear to listen to them normalize the pending Trumpist assault on the U.S. republic. But I didnt switch the station. Instead, I did something that, as a former radio DJ myself at two different public stations, surprised me. I turned the radio off. Which is a shame, because it meant I was forsaking Baltimores fairly robust radio scene.

Theres jazz from Morgan State University on WEAA-FM. Robert Shaheeds Master Class show is a real go-to, and I adore the Latin jazz and salsa show Fiesta Musical with Guillermo Brown and Gary Elter whenever I come across it. Theres also the more formatted programming of WTMD-FM, which used to be housed in my university but went public a few years back. They serve up music aimed at my generation of (socially) white people. Its sometimes a bit soft and predictable for my tastes, but occasionally it really hits the spot. However, the real gem in the Baltimore market floats over from the other side of the Chesapeake Bay: WKHS-FM out of Wharton, Maryland. The HS stands for High School. Catch it at the right time and youll hear actual high school kids whip up a truly head-spinning mix of music, and then charmingly fumble their way over the microphone. Its priceless and always makes my day. Other times, adults in the Kent County community take over and really let it rip. And about half the day, WKHS it serves as a relay station for WXPN-FM out of Philadelphia, which pioneered the modern, middle road, middle aged, middle class format that WTMD follows. Then of course theres the local NPR station for news, WYPR (Your Public Radio), which spun off from Johns Hopkins the way WTMD spun off of Towson University. In fact, those two stations are now partnered up under the same non-profit umbrella.

All of that is public radio on the left end of the dial, below 92.1 FM. On the rarer occasions when I venture north of 92, I listen to Spanish language music or, as a last resort, some classic rock. But always something when I drive around Baltimore. Until this year.

In some ways, nothing sets the tone for cultural norms like mass media: TV, radio, news outlets, movies, etc. This is particularly true for Americans over 45 who grew up and came of age in a fairly homogenous mass media environment. Boomers and Xers remember just three television networks, PBS, and one or two local stations on the tube, along with radio music programming determined by the various Billboard charts. Millennials had cable TV straight out of the crib, but most of them still lived a 20th century childhood unbesmirched by the web. For the real fracturing of mainstream American culture did not crackle and pop until the internet created a patchwork of subcultural hives for people to retreat into. The year 2000 marks the moment when a slight majority of Americans had home internet service, and the crumbling of a coherent, mainstream national culture really took off.

That fragmentation of American popular culture is just one factor enabling Trump. Maybe its also because the Greatest Generation, who on the whole after WWII werent nearly as great as their moniker intimates, were mostly gone by 2016. Lord knows they would have proverbially stomped the living shit out of an absolute fucking ass clown like Donald Trump if he had dared approach the sacred halls of power during their watch. Then again, maybe if they really were so great, they wouldnt have raised a generation of spoiled, angry permachildren, a majority of whom (the white ones, anyway) voted for Trump the first time and got this whole mess going. Truth be told, there are at least 99 ways to explain the current mess.

However, the fracturing of the mainstream culture is the one that resonates most with me these days. And to be fair, there is actually has a lot of upside to it. For example, the flourishing of talented and interesting DIY culture producers who would never have found their audiences on YouTube, TikTok, and elsewhere in the ether if mass media corporations still finely filtered the production and distribution of cultural products to the masses. But theres also been a very dark side to that fracturing. The worlds most corrupt, insane, and nastiest shit has found ways to become normalized as the mainstream no longer sets boundaries for what is normal and what is abnormal.

Q-Anon is the most obvious example, perhaps. Its no longer disqualifying in any number of venues, including Congress and the White House, to echo loony toon nonsense promoted by the American internets most successful amalgamation of mentally ill and conspiratorial delusions.

I dont blame the so-called legacy media for this, of course. That would be unfair. They were blind sided by the rise of the internet and struggled to adjust. Newspapers, for example, lost about half their revenue when Craigslist rendered obsolete their classified ads, which you had to pay a small fee to place. Thats just one example of what they were up against.

However, this just made it all the more infuriating when those same media outlets normalized Trump in 2016. At the time, I was irate that they were not calling a spade a spade. Instead, they waited, reading the temperature of the room, petrified that GOP propaganda organs, which had been villainizing them since at least the 1990s, would yet again paint them as biased for speaking truth to Republican power. But to normalize Tump through all the insanity, corruption, gross stupidity, and anti-democatic action of his first term, and not learn a fucking thing? And then, four years later, to think that continuing to normalize Trumps victory and the oncoming onslaught of Trumpism would somehow insulate them from his wrath? Seriously?

Poor and working class Baby Boomers who voted for Trump still lost their Medicaid right out of the gate. What fucking chance did All Things Considered have?

Ive been shaking my head for about nine years now. I will never say the legacy media deserve the Trumpist beat down theyve been facing, but when some dumb motherfucker falls in a well because they obstinately refuse to wear their glasses outside the house, its tough to have a lot of sympathy them, even if you kind of need that dumb motherfucker to keep the lights on in your own home.

The truth is, since 2016 most if not all reputable news outlets in the United States have played a role, a major role actually, in normalizing Trump the politician. Maybe that would have happened anyway, but they played along, and continue to do so, making things worse, and Im not sure I can ever forgive them for that. Because it sure looks to me that they helped normalize Trump and Trumpism in the name of objectivity, while actually being more concerned with self-preservation. It has been a stunning betrayal not only of the republic, but of the values for which real news organizations stand. So much so, that listening to NPR pretend everything was normal this past January and February despoiled, at least temporarily, the entire medium of radio for me, a person who loves that medium deeply and spent a decade giving free labor to and raising money for the public version of it.

But I suppose Ill be back, eventually. Even if a healthy functioning American democracy might not.

Akim Reinhardts website is ThePublicProfessor.com
by Angela Starita

Over the past six years, Ive intermittently studied weaving. For reasons unknown to me, Ive wanted to weave for at least the last 20 years, but only as a distant dream. It was part of a larger fantasy, one I wrote an essay about years ago: riding a bike to a clean studio reminiscent of a kindergarten classroom, lots of light, plywood furniture and reams of color in the form of signage and yarn and material. Id go there every day, work on a project and other women would be working on their projectsparallel experiences but no collaboration. There would be long periods of quiet as we concentrated with occasional meal breaks. By 3 or 4, we might start talking, playing music, showing off our progress. Then wed clean up our spaces and bike back home. This was how wed make our living. The specifics of our funding sources remained unresolved it was a daydream, and I had enough trouble figuring out money flow in real life.

The essay, though, was really about my ambivalence towards fiber art, something I didnt sense in the younger women who were taking up knitting and crocheting and sewing with what I deemed nary a moment of critical reflection about the historic role of those skills in womens lives. In articles at the time, needle arts were seen as part of a DIY trend, a resurrection of skills learned from grandmothers and with a fair amount of attendant nostalgia. Both my grandmothers were talented at knitting and sewing, and in fact, I learned the basics of crochet from one of them. The other was in a deep senility by the time I was born, but I learned that shed been hesitant to teach those skills to her three daughters. Her mantra was go to college and get a good job so you stay in a marriage because you want to, not because you have to.

Though I think her own marriage was a strong one, my grandfathers insolvency in the middle of the Depression meant she needed to go back to freelance garment work. Shed spend whole nights bent over a crochet beading loom, prepping beads that shed sew onto evening gowns for a designer she called Miss Ania. Those werent skills she wanted her girls to depend on.

Of course, I was mostly wrong about my assessment of the textile art renaissance: women and men were quite conscious of the socioeconomic history behind those skills and were reclaiming them as a way to value the handmade, reject quick consumerism while also trying to explode the gendering of art practices, a correction my workshop fantasy couldve used. What still goes largely unexamined is the economics of textile art, how to compensate for the making of exquisite objects that also happen to be functional.The questions I didnt want to answer in my daydream are critical ones.

Last month I studied for three days with two weavers in Perugia, Italy. I learned of their studio from an organization called VAWAA, Vacation with An Artist. Ive gone on VAWAA trips before, and I suppose Im the ideal customer: middle-aged dilettante with enough disposable income and vacation time to spend days at a time in another country learning about natural dyes or Umbrian linens. That said, Im happy to support great work that has few other income streams. And my experiences on those trips have been memorable. Two years ago, for instance, I went to Gees Bend, Alabama to study an approach to quilting that is distinctive to the quilters I met there and their ancestors, women who lived on the site of a former plantation on a spit of land delimited by a tributary of the Alabama River. The Gees Bend quilts are famous within folk art circles. Theyve even been memorialized on US postage stamps. But for most people, seeing a Gees Bend quilt can provoke the kind of jolt you get when you come across an old task done in a wholly new way, a solution that is so clearly right, so simple, that you marvel no one thought of it before. Milton Glazers I Heart NY, Le Corbusiers Maison Do-mi-no. The Gees Bend quilts dont depend on the usual imagery of quiltsstars, log cabins, flying geesebut play with those patterns in weird, unexpected ways. Theyre always going outside the framework of the rectangle and letting the shapes and colors take the space they need. In many ways, these quilts are about the ways that colors interact, receding or popping based on combinations. The workshop at Gees Bend started with my teachers, Marlene and Loretta, telling me and a friend to look through a garbage bag of fabrics to choose what appealed to us. That would be our starting point, not a pattern or an end use. Marlene would finger a couple of fabrics wed chosen and ask, Are these two being good neighbors?

The painter Lee Krasner learned of the quilters in the mid-60s and arranged to have their work sold at Bloomingdales. When Martin Luther King, Jr. came to Gees Bend in 1965, he gave the quilters $200 seed money to form a collective and try to monetize their striking quilts, which manage to be unique to each artist and yet have a visual throughline. Undeniable family resemblance. The collective, called the Freedom Quilting Bee, was launched and the womens work was featured in a New York Times spread in 1969 with the title Quilting Co-op Tastes Success, Finds It Sweet. But in fewer than two years, the Times reported on the ventures failure despite the popularity of the quilts and their undeniable originality and beauty. To make a living wage from that many hours of labor would require far greater volume or even higher prices. Not a possibility, not even with Bloomingdales as a customer.

In Perugia, the weaving studio was owned and run by Marta Cucchia, whose great grandmother, Giuditta Brozzetti, had founded the collective in 1921 expressly to record the textile work of women living in the Umbrian countryside. These weavers, most illiterate, were making fabric with patterns passed down from mothers and grandmothers and remembered through rhymes or songs. Flat files in the studio, which is housed in a 13th century church where St. Francis once lived, are filled with samples of their work. Among the dozens of looms in the studio, Cucchia keeps several Jacquard looms, which are programmed through a long set of punch cards and were the predecessors to computers. She used the Jacquard to re-create the pattern of the Perugian linen seen in The Last Supper, a two-year-long project that involved studying indistinct parts of the fresco and experimenting with the looms punchcards to create an accurate facsimile. Yet Cucchia says she gets no support at all from the city whose patrimony is preserved in these projects. Instead, the workshop is kept alive by grants from foundations outside of Italy. Cucchia hustles to keep the place going, mostly through toursseveral groups passed through the studios on the three days I was thereand through lessons for people like me. She makes very little in sales, despite special projects with big-name companies like Fendi. Id assumed that in Perugia there would be plentiful funds for this kind of heritage work, but the economics of making proved to be as untenable there as in Gees Bend.
CNBC's Jim Cramer on Tuesday told investors why he prefers Expedia to Airbnb , reviewing the two travel companies' business prospects and recent earnings.

"At the end of the day, I think Expedia's thriving because of its laser-focus on value, while Airbnb's making a bunch of big bets that may or may not pay off in this environment," he said. "I say stick with what's working, I say stick with Expedia."

Both Expedia and Airbnb managed to meet the estimates when they reported earnings earlier this month but the former's stock soared while the latter saw losses.

Airbnb's outlook for the current quarter was mixed, Cramer said, which disappointed investors. The company's guidance was more guarded, he continued, which made Wall Street fear that it's bracing itself for a slowdown. Expedia, on the other hand, gave "unambiguously robust" guidance for the current quarter, Cramer said, as it raised its full-year forecast for gross bookings and revenue growth. He also suggested that expectations were greater for Airbnb because it has a higher price-to-earnings multiple than Expedia.

But beyond earnings, Cramer said there are other factors that make Expedia more attractive than Airbnb right now. Expedia's online travel agency has a business-to-business division, while Airbnb is primarily focused on consumers, he pointed out. Cramer said he thinks the strength of Expedia's B2B arm gave management the confidence to raise its full-year forecast. But Airbnb is "completely hostage to the consumer," so management had to be more cautious, he added.

Cramer also argued that Expedia is engaged with its core business  flights, hotels and rental cars. Meanwhile, he said, Airbnb is exploring new opportunities beyond its primary home rental business, whose success is not assured. The company is working on a services division that targets wealthier consumers. Some of the newer offerings would allow guests to book a chef or personal trainer to come to their rental or add spa treatments to their stay. Airbnb is betting on pricier endeavors, Cramer said, even though it seems consumers are more value-conscious right now.

"They've gone upmarket, and it represents a risk," Cramer said. "Expedia, on the other hand, is simply focused on execution, and that's working as consumers keep coming to their platform to get the best prices when they want to travel."

"It's still early, but we're seeing great momentum behind Airbnb Services and Airbnb Experiences, and we're excited about the long-term growth potential," a spokesperson for Airbnb told CNBC in an email. "Guest ratings since launch average 4.9 out of 5 stars  even higher than our stays business. Over 60,000 people have applied to be hosts, and about 10 percent of bookings for services so far are from locals or people nearby."

Expedia did not immediately respond to request for comment.
There are many must-see national parks around the globe, from Ecuador to China.

The world is full of many natural wonders. In the United States, national parks draw in millions of visitors all year round. While places like Yellowstone boast famous geysers such as Old Faithful and the vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, that is just a fraction of what the rest of the world has to offer. Here are a few of the most beautiful  and most visited  national parks around the globe.

Yosemite National Park, U.S.A.

Located in California, Yosemite National Park has over 750 miles of trails for travelers to explore. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1980s and is recognized for giant sequoia, glaciers and granite cliffs. The park is home to famous spots like Tunnel View and Valley View and famous landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan.

Yosemite National Park Loic Lagarde | Moment | Getty Images

Galapagos National Park, Ecuador

The Galapagos National Park is made up of volcanic islands hundreds of miles off the coast of Ecuador. The park encompasses an area of 3,040 square miles and is the country's first national park. The government of Ecuador declared 97% of the Galapagos Islands area as protected and it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Galapagos Islands are home to world-renowned wildlife like marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas, according to the Global Alliance of National Parks.

Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park was established as Canada's first national park in 1855. The park originated as a hot springs reserve and is now comprised of thousands of acres in the Canadian Rockies. The Canadian national park is home to three world-class ski resorts, over 2,000 campsites, over 1,000 glaciers and thousands of miles of hiking trails.

Banff National Park Santiago Urquijo | Moment | Getty Images

Yellowstone National Park, U.S.A.

The Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest of the U.S. and extends across the states of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It was designated a national park in 1872, is made up of 2.2 million acres and attracts more than 4 million visitors every year, according to U.S. News and World Report. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and several geothermal features, including the popular Old Faithful geyser. It is also home to Yellowstone Lake, one of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America and covers part of the Yellowstone Caldera, the largest supervolcano on the continent. Aside from the popular Yellowstone Lake and Old Faithful, the national park is also home to the Mammoth Hot Springs, the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and the Lewis River Channel.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park is located in Tanzania and is the world-renowned home of The Great Migration, a once-a-year event where about two million blue wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles cross the park. The park spans across 5,700 square miles in East Africa, giving visitors the chance to see animals like the Big Five: leopards, elephants, lions, rhinoceroses and buffalo. It is home to the largest lion population in Africa.

Serengeti National Park Ayzenstayn | Moment | Getty Images

Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Located in the Surat Thani province of southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is part of one of the world's oldest and largest evergreen rainforests. The park is home to over 200 types of plants, hundreds of bird species and lots of reptiles and insects. It was established in 1980 and is just a few hours north of the popular destination of Phuket. Khao Sok is also bordered by three other national parks: Kaeng Krueng, Sri Phang Nga and Khlong Phanom.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

The Torres del Paine National Park is located on the edge of the Chilean Patagonia. It is one of the most visited parks in Chile and the best time to visit is between the months of November and March. The park is made up of more than 445,000 acres The park is home to the Grey Glacier and popular hiking trails like the W Trek and O Circuit, which both take several days to finish. The park is named after the three granite peaks of the Paine mountain range and is one of the 11 protected areas of the Magallanes Region and Chilean Antarctica.

Torres del Paine National Park  Marco Bottigelli | Moment | Getty Images

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Croatia. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 and is primarily covered in forest vegetation. The park is known mainly for its extensive lake system, comprising 16 named lakes and several smaller, unnamed lakes. The park is open to visitors all year round and offers seven different routes to tour the lake system and four hiking trails.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

The Kruger National Park is one of the most iconic parks in South Africa, spanning approximately 5 million acres. It offers access to animals such as the Big Five as well as Nile crocodiles, hippos, and rare birds. The park offers visitors the opportunity to explore it in their own cars, stay at public rest camps, or in private lodges. The Kruger National Park also works to preserve historic things like the archaeological sites Masorini and Thulamela and Bushman rock paintings.

Kruger National Park Maria Korneeva | Moment | Getty Images

Guilin and Lijiang River National Park, China
BWX Technologies ' nuclear portfolio could expand from the Earth's high seas to outer space, according to Bank of America. BWXT, originally Babcock & Wilcox until a 2015 restructuring, is best known for supplying the U.S. Navy with nuclear reactors for submarines and aircraft carriers. The company also makes parts for the U.S. civilian nuclear fleet in the U.S. Business in both areas is strong, leading Bank of America to increase its stock price target for BWXT by 42%, to $220 per share from $155 previously, implying 22% upside from current levels. But BWXT has a more speculative area of opportunity  the moon. "BWXT could benefit from NASA's recently announced plans to develop lunar surface nuclear power technology by 2030, expanding the space opportunity set," Bank of America analyst Ronald Epstein told clients in a note Wednesday. NASA plans to use micro nuclear reactors for its lunar power plant. BWXT is designing a transportable microreactor called Pele that could play a role, and is currently building a 1.5 megawatt demonstration reactor for the Defense Department. BWXT is also positioned to act as a key component supplier for small modular nuclear reactors if the U.S. ramps up construction of these facilities, according to Bank of America. President Donald Trump signed an order in May calling for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to approve SMRs at high volume. "Accelerating development of small modular reactors (SMRs) provides upside to BWXT's Commercial business given its enviable position as a critical merchant supplier," Epstein said. Meanwhile, BWXT's underlying business is also strong, with the Navy recently ordering $2.6 billion of nuclear reactors and components for its Virginia and Columbia class submarines as well as Ford class aircraft carriers. The Navy order will boost BWXT's revenue certainty over a six- to eight-year delivery period, according to Bank of America. "BWXT [is] uniquely positioned to support deployment of military and space nuclear power," Epstein said.
A customer carries a Cava bag in the Brooklyn borough of New York, US, on Monday, May 6, 2024.

Cava stock tumbled 16% in afternoon trading on Wednesday, making it the latest fast-casual chain to feel Wall Street's wrath after reporting disappointing quarterly sales.

A year ago, eateries like Chipotle Mexican Grill and Cava were reporting double-digit same-store sales growth, even as the broader restaurant industry posted falling traffic and slumping sales. But times have changed. This spring, fast-casual chains saw foot traffic decline as sales slowed down or even shrank.

To explain the downturn, executives have said that diners are "cautious," in the words of Sweetgreen CEO Jonathan Neman, or dealing with an economic "fog," according to Cava CFO Tricia Tolivar.

And just as diners are finding reasons why to cut back on their Shake Shack burgers or Chipotle bowls, investors are trimming their fast-casual holdings after rewarding the companies last year for outperforming the rest of the industry. So far in 2025, Shake Shack shares have fallen 16%; Chipotle stock has slid 28%; Cava shares have tumbled 37%; and Sweetgreen stock has plunged 70%. Of the notable publicly traded fast-casual chains, only Wingstop has managed to stay in the green this year, with gains of 20%.

More broadly, investors have grown more cautious about betting on any restaurants, given weak traffic trends and concerns about consumer spending, according to a research note on Sunday from UBS. Even fast-food companies have struggled with the traffic declines and sluggish sales growth, despite their historical reputation as a safer bet during economic uncertainty.

While some fast-casual chains flagged company-specific reasons for their weaker-than-expected results, executives also said that economic uncertainty is weighing on consumers  and hurting their sales.

Generally, fast-casual diners are higher income and more likely to have white-collar jobs. However, Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright blamed a pullback from low-income consumers for the chain's same-store sales declines of 4% in the second quarter.

"You have to look no further than what's going with our competitors with snack occasions or $5 meals. That's where the consumer is drifting towards, [with] value as a price point, because of low consumer sentiment. I think as sentiment improves, the business will improve. I think that's probably the biggest headwind we face," he told analysts on the company's earnings conference call on June 23.

The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment slid in April to 52.2, one of its lowest-ever recorded readings. It held at that level in May before rising in June to 60.7.

Fast-casual chains are seeing consumers' economic anxieties in their own research, too.

"Through our regular consumer research, we hear concerns about elevated prices, future job prospects and general anxiety about the future," Wingstop CEO Michael Skipworth said on the company's earnings conference call in late July.

The chicken wing chain reported same-store sales declines of 1.9% for the quarter, a dramatic reversal compared to its growth of 28.7% in the year-ago period.

On the company's earnings conference call on Thursday, Sweetgreen's Neman said that the chain saw "a more cautious consumer environment starting in April"  coinciding with the drop in consumer sentiment. A "subdued industry backdrop," particularly in several of the chain's biggest urban markets, contributed to Sweetgreen's "really, really rough quarter," according to Neman.

That's one reason why the salad chain reported a steeper-than-expected decline in its same-store sales and cut its full-year forecast for the second straight quarter. Sweetgreen executives also attributed the weak quarterly performance to a tough comparison to last year's steak launch and the transition of its loyalty program.

To improve its value perception among customers, Sweetgreen is increasing its chicken and tofu portions by 25%, improving its chicken and salmon recipes and implementing some promotional pricing, like $13 menu bowl drops for its loyalty program members.

As for Cava, the company had been wowing investors with impressive same-store sales growth since its initial public offering two years ago. But this quarter, the Mediterranean chain reported same-store sales growth of 2.1%, well below Wall Street projections of 6.1%. Executives said that it faced difficult comparisons to the year-ago period's same-store sales growth of 14.4%, which was fueled by its own steak launch and strong demand at newer restaurant locations that waned this year.

"Cava isn't so special after all. After blowing out same store sales in Q1 of 10.8%, it fell in line with the industry at 2.1% in Q2. It's not negative, so that's helpful," Tracey Ryniec, stock strategist at Zacks Investment Research, said.

Cava executives also acknowledged that economic concerns are weighing on diners.

"Certainly, we're operating in a fluid macroeconomic environment and it's one that sort of creates a fog for consumers where things are changing constantly and it's hard to see the clear. And during those times, they tend to step off of the gas," Tolivar said on the company's conference call on Tuesday evening.

Still, Cava isn't seeing consumers trade down to cheaper protein options, or experiencing any other deeper business concerns, co-founder and CEO Brett Schulman said. And as it enters the third quarter, its same-store sales have improved, Tolivar said.

And Cava isn't the only fast-casual eatery anticipating a return to form in the latter half of the year, especially as consumer sentiment improved in June and July.

Chipotle said its traffic started growing again as the burrito chain exited the quarter and continued into July. Sweetgreen has seen "modest" improvement in its same-store sales so far into the third quarter, according to Neman.

And while Wingstop executives said that they're still seeing weaker consumer demand, the chain is facing easier comparisons to last year's performance.
The USS Higgins is a warship with the U.S. Seventh Fleet, based in Yokosuka, Japan . Sarah Merrill, a spokesperson for the fleet told CNBC that the USS Higgins was conducting a "freedom of navigation operation" in accordance with international law.

China accused the U.S. military of "seriously" infringing its sovereignty, adding that America's actions "severely undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea, and violate international law and basic norms governing international relations."

Huangyan Island is the name China uses to refer to the shoal, which has been the subject of a maritime dispute between China and the Philippines.

The destroyer, USS Higgins, "illegally entered China's territorial waters off Huangyan Island without the approval of the Chinese government," the country's defense ministry said, according to a CNBC translation of the statement in Mandarin.

China said Wednesday it warned and "drove away" a U.S. destroyer that had sailed near the coast of the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea  one of the most valuable shipping lanes globally.

"China's statement about this mission is false ... The United States is defending its right to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, as USS Higgins did here. Nothing China says otherwise will deter us," Merrill added.

The incident comes at a time when Washington and Beijing are locked in a trade spat that has seen the two issue incendiary statements, with China in March warning that it was prepared for "a trade war or any other type of war," with the U.S., before tensions subsided.

On Tuesday, a Chinese warship had crashed into one of its own coast guard vessels as it chased a patrol boat belonging to the Philippines.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea as its own under its "nine-dash-line," which rejects a 2016 ruling by an international arbitration court in the Netherlands, that found no legal or historical basis for Beijing's claims.

There have been several clashes between Chinese and Filipino ships in the South China Sea, with the Philippines accusing Beijing's forces last year of pursuing Philippine vessels and directing lasers at patrolling aircrafts near another contested reef.

Clashes have involved boat collisions, water cannons and injuries to Filipino sailors, according to Filipino officials.

In May 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that should a Filipino citizen be killed in the South China Sea via an incident with the Chinese Coast Guard, it would almost certainly be a "red line" and come "very, very close to what we define as an act of war."

He added that "our treaty partners I believe, also hold that same standard," referring to U.S. forces. Washington has a mutual defense treaty with Manila since 1951, which states that an attack on either the Philippines or the U.S. in the Pacific is deemed to be an attack on the other.
A firefighter falls on the ground while working to extinguish a wildfire in San Cibrao das Vinas, outside Ourense, northwestern Spain, on August 12, 2025.

Record-breaking heat has swept across Europe in recent days, pushing temperatures well beyond 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in some areas and fueling regional wildfires.

In France, temperature records were obliterated in Angouleme, Bergerac, Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion and Saint-Girons on Monday afternoon, according to an update from weather forecaster Meteo France.

"Often remarkable, even unprecedented maximum temperatures, often 12 degrees above normal levels, were reached this Monday," Meteo France said Tuesday in a press release, according to a CNBC translation.

The forecaster said that a heatwave in the southwest was seen spreading to the center-east and northeast of the country through Tuesday and Wednesday.

In Croatia, temperatures climbed to 39.5 degrees Celsius in the Adriatic coastal city of Sibenik and 38.9 degrees Celsius in the popular tourist destination of Dubrovnik earlier in the week.

The temperature records come as scientists warn climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas is the chief driver of the climate crisis.

Europe is meanwhile known to be warming faster than any other continent, at twice the speed of the global average since the 1980s, according to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service.

The EU's climate monitor has attributed this trend to changing weather patterns, reduced air pollution and the region's geography, noting that parts of Europe extend into the Arctic  the fastest-warming region on Earth.
Igor Babuschkin, co-founder of xAI, during the Nvidia GPU Technology Conference (GTC) in San Jose, California, US, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.

Igor Babuschkin, a founding member of Elon Musk's xAI, said Wednesday that he's leaving the artificial intelligence startup to launch his own venture firm.

"Today was my last day at xAI, the company that I helped start with Elon Musk in 2023," Babuschkin wrote on X, which is owned by xAI. "I still remember the day I first met Elon, we talked for hours about AI and what the future might hold. We both felt that a new AI company with a different kind of mission was needed. Building AI that advances humanity has been my lifelong dream."

Musk wrote, in response, "Thanks for helping build @xAI! We wouldn't be here without you."

Babuschkin said he's starting Babuschkin Ventures to support AI safety research and invest in startups in "AI and agentic systems that advance humanity and unlock the mysteries of our universe."

A former research engineer for Google's DeepMind and ex-member of OpenAI's technical staff, Babuschkin recounted some of xAI's major operational achievements during his tenure, including building out engineering teams at the company.

"Through blood sweat and tears, our team's blistering velocity built the Memphis supercluster, and shipped frontier models faster than any company in history," he wrote.

The facility in Memphis processes data and trains the models that power xAI's Grok chatbot.

Locals have protested xAI's operations in Memphis, especially its use of natural gas-burning turbines to power its data centers. Emissions from the turbines are reportedly worsening the poor air quality in the West Tennessee city.

At the time he was preparing to go into business with Musk, Babuschkin wrote that he believed "very soon AI could reason beyond the level of humans," and was concerned about making sure such technology is "used for good."

He said that, "Elon had warned of the dangers of powerful AI for years," and shared his vision of "AI used to benefit humanity."

The company has a rocky track record when it comes to AI safety.

In May, xAI's Grok chatbot automatically generated and spread false posts about alleged "white genocide" in South Africa. After that, the company apologized and said Grok's strange behavior was caused by an "unauthorized modification" to the chatbot's system prompts, which help inform the way it behaves and interacts with users.

In July, xAI found itself apologizing for another problem with Grok. After a code update, the chatbot automatically generated and spread false and antisemitic content across X, including posts praising Adolf Hitler.

The European Union requested a meeting last month with representatives from xAI to discuss problems with X and the integrated Grok chatbot.

Babuschkin and xAI didn't respond to requests for comment.

Other chatbots have also generated false or otherwise dangerous outputs in response to queries. OpenAI's ChatGPT was recently called out for giving bad health advice to a user who wound up in the emergency room. And Google had to make changes to Gemini last year after it generated offensive images in response to user prompts about history, including images that depicted people of color as Nazis.

WATCH: xAI explains Grok's 'white genocide' posts
Bank of America says the defense contractor V2X is benefiting from a "scale and scope strategy coming to fruition." BofA upgraded the 11-year-old, Reston, Virginia-based manufacturer to buy from neutral on Wednesday, raising its price target to $65 per share from $55. The bank's forecast implies more than 19% upside from Tuesday's $54.56 close. V2X jumped 7% in early trading Wednesday, bringing its year-to-date gain to 22%. Analyst Mariana Perez Mora pointed to V2X recently winning a contract tied to the T-6 aircraft "as a key enabler of growth." "[W]e would expect to start to see full revenue contribution from the contract beginning in 2027. The predecessor contract (V2X won the current iteration as a takeaway) obligated ~$200-$300mn in funding annually," the analyst said. "We think this is a reasonable assumption on a go-forward basis for contribution to V2X as the contract fully ramps." VVX YTD mountain V2X stock in 2025. Bank of America also highlighted V2X's advantage over competitors, owing to its "strategy to provide full-lifecycle support to increasingly complex military operations." "In addition to the scale and scope strategy at logistics and maintenance work, we appreciate that V2X is also winning awards to 'move up the food chain' and take part in higher-growth, higher-margin work," the BofA analyst said. "We think this combination will result in accelerating and sustainable growth in the years to come and, thus, re-rating." In other words, the stock is likely to sell for a higher price-to-earnings ratio.
JD Vance's U.K. trip has caused a stir, with locals staging a 'Vance not welcome party' on Tuesday after the U.S. vice president's motorcade arrived in the picturesque Cotswolds.

"Bullies not welcome here," read one sign, while another called to "make America moral again."

Other placards mocked the U.S. official more directly, saying "JD Vance's Netflix password is password" and "JD Vance claps when the plane lands."

A meme image featuring Vance with a bald head was printed on balloons and attached to the front of a popular celebratory "caterpillar" cake and displayed on the side of a van.

Residents also faced security checks and road closures related to Vance's visit.

Vance's team did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment.

"The local people of the Cotswolds turned out because they feel very strongly that JD Vance is not welcome here, and they wanted to exercise their freedom of speech," a spokesperson for the Stop Trump Coalition, which organized the protest, told CNBC on Tuesday.

"The atmosphere was, was really wonderful," the spokesperson said. "It was a really joyous festival of resistance."

According to the spokesperson, around 80 people attended the event, mostly locals. The protest has garnered widespread social media attention, with users sharing footage and pictures from the event and creating memes about Vance's trip.

The U.S. vice president, who is traveling with his wife and children, has previously criticized the U.K, which the spokesperson for the Stop Trump Coalition said had angered locals. They also pointed to Vance and the U.S. administration's positions on the wars in Ukraine and the Gaza enclave as factors contributing to outrage.

See some impressions of the protest here:
A U.S. judge on Tuesday ordered the Trump's administration to restore a part of the federal grant funding that it recently suspended for UCLA.

A U.S. judge on Tuesday ordered President Donald Trump's administration to restore a part of the federal grant funding that it recently suspended for the University of California, Los Angeles.

U.S. District Judge Rita Lin in San Francisco ruled that the grant funding suspensions violated an earlier June preliminary injunction where she ordered the National Science Foundation to restore dozens of grants that it had terminated at the University of California.

That order had blocked the agency from cancelling other grants at the University of California system, of which UCLA is a part.

"NSF's actions violate the Preliminary Injunction," Lin, an appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden, wrote. The White House and the university had no immediate comment on the ruling.

UCLA said last week the government froze $584 million in funding. Trump has threatened to cut federal funds for universities over pro-Palestinian student protests against U.S. ally Israel's military assault on Gaza.

The Los Angeles Times newspaper reported that the judge's order asked for the restoration of more than a third of the suspended $584 million funding.

The University of California said last week it was reviewing a settlement offer by the Trump administration for UCLA in which the university will pay $1 billion. It said such a large payment would "devastate" the institution.

The government alleges universities, including UCLA, allowed antisemitism during the protests.

Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say the government wrongly equates their criticism of Israel's war in Gaza and its occupation of Palestinian territories with antisemitism, and their advocacy for Palestinian rights with support for extremism.

Experts have raised free speech and academic freedom concerns over the Republican president's threats. Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom called the Trump administration's settlement offer a form of extortion.

Large demonstrations took place at UCLA last year. Last month, UCLA agreed to pay over $6 million to settle a lawsuit alleging antisemitism. It was also sued this year over a 2024 violent mob attack on pro-Palestinian protesters.

Rights advocates note a rise in antisemitism, anti-Arab bias and Islamophobia due to conflict in the Middle East. The Trump administration has not announced equivalent probes into Islamophobia.

The government has settled its probes with Columbia University, which agreed to pay over $220 million, and Brown University, which said it will pay $50 million. Both accepted certain government demands. Settlement talks with Harvard University are ongoing.
New York Attorney General Letitia James speaks outside New York Supreme Court in New York City ahead of former President Donald Trump's civil business fraud trial on October 2, 2023.

New York Attorney General Letitia James sued the operator of the Zelle payments network on Wednesday, alleging it enabled fraud by allowing scammers to steal over $1 billion from users between 2017 and 2023.

James' office said in a press release that its investigation found that Early Warning Services, the owner and designer of the peer-to-peer money transfer company, designed Zelle "without critical safety features." The release noted that the lawsuit against EWS follows a similar one dropped by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in March.

"EWS knew from the beginning that key features of the Zelle network made it uniquely susceptible to fraud, and yet it failed to adopt basic safeguards to address these glaring flaws or enforce any meaningful anti-fraud rules on its partner banks," James' office said in the release.

The lawsuit alleges that Zelle became a "hub for fraudulent activity" because the registration process lacked verification steps and that EWS and its partner banks knew "for years" that fraud was spreading and did not take actionable steps to resolve it, according to the press release.

James is seeking restitution and damages, in addition to a court order mandating that Zelle puts anti-fraud measures in place.

"No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam," James said in the release. "I look forward to getting justice for the New Yorkers who suffered because of Zelle's security failures."

In a statement, a Zelle spokesperson called the lawsuit a "political stunt to generate press" and a "copycat" of the CFPB lawsuit.

"Despite the Attorney General's assertions, they did not conduct an investigation of Zelle," the spokesperson said. "Had they conducted an investigation, they would have learned that more than 99.95 percent of all Zelle transactions are completed without any report of scam or fraud  which leads the industry."

The CFPB in December sued EWS and JPMorgan Chase , Bank of America and Wells Fargo  the three U.S. banks that dominate transactions on Zelle  alleging the companies failed to investigate fraud or offer reimbursement to users.

The regulator dropped its suit amid a growing number of cases it has dismissed under acting CFPB Director Russell Vought.
Nvidia should report strong second-quarter results later this month that will drive shares higher, according to Piper Sandler. The firm raised its price target to $225 per share from $180, signaling about 23% upside ahead. It also kept its overweight rating on Nvidia. "We are expecting another positive quarter from NVDA and see upside to numbers for both the July and October quarters," analyst Harsh Kumar said. "While we are modeling largely in-line for the July quarter and slightly below Street for October, we are calling for upside given the recent positive commentary from U.S. hyperscalers as well as the inclusion of revenues from China." NVDA YTD mountain Nvidia stock. Nvidia should note strong demand for its chips, the analyst said, which is a dynamic he expects to continue. "We continue to think that NVDA is in a demand greater than supply situation and will likely continue to be through the end of the year," he said. "Even without China, the U.S. HPC demand is outstripping NVDA's ability to supply its latest architecture. We note, this situation is somewhat exasperated by the model changes at NVDA to the rack and delays in the introduction of the GB200." Shares have added more than 26% in 2025. The chipmaker will report quarterly results on Aug. 27. Analysts polled by FactSet forecast $1 per share on revenue of $45.76 billion. Most analysts are bullish Nvidia. Of the 65 who cover the stock, 58 rate it a buy or strong buy, according to LSEG.
South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee arrives at the special prosecutor's office in Seoul, South Korea, August 6, 2025.

South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee has been arrested after a court late Tuesday issued a warrant to arrest her following accusations of graft that she denies, a special prosecutor leading a wide-reaching probe said.

Kim is South Korea's only former first lady to be arrested, joining her husband, ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol, in jail as he faces trial following his ouster in April over a botched bid to impose martial law in December.

Earlier in the day, Kim, wearing a black suit, bowed as she arrived at court, but did not answer reporters' questions or make a statement. After the hearing ended she left to await the ruling at a detention center in Seoul, the capital, in line with customary practice.

The court issued the warrant for Kim's detention, the special prosecutor appointed in early June said in a brief message. The prosecutor's office did not provide further details.

The charges against her, punishable by years in prison, range from stock fraud to bribery and illegal influence peddling that have implicated business owners, religious figures and a political power broker.

She has been accused of breaking the law over an incident in which she wore a luxury Van Cleef pendant reportedly worth more than 60 million won ($43,000) while attending a NATO summit with her husband in 2022.

The item was not listed in the couple's financial disclosure as required by law, according to the charge.

Kim is also accused of receiving two Chanel bags together valued at 20 million won and a diamond necklace from a religious group as a bribe in return for influence favourable to its business interests.

The prosecution sought Kim's arrest because of the risk of her destroying evidence and interfering with the investigation, a spokesperson for the special prosecutor's team told a press briefing after Tuesday's hearing.

The court accepted the argument on the risk of destroying evidence, Yonhap news reported.

The spokesperson, Oh Jeong-hee, said Kim had told prosecutors the pendant she wore was a fake bought 20 years ago in Hong Kong.

The prosecution said it was genuine, however, and given by a domestic construction company for Kim to wear at the summit, Oh said.

Kim's lawyers did not immediately comment on Tuesday but they have previously denied the accusations against her and dismissed as groundless speculation news reports about some of the gifts she allegedly received.

Yoon is on trial on charges of insurrection, which could result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

The former president, who also faces charges of abuse of power among others, has denied wrongdoing and refused to attend trial hearings or be questioned by prosecutors.
The Tencent logo is displayed on the exterior of a building at the companys headquarters, with a surveillance camera visible in the foreground, on November 30, 2024, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.

Tencent on Wednesday reported a 15% jump in second-quarter revenue as a strong performance in its gaming unit and AI investments boosted growth.

Here's how Tencent did in the first quarter of 2025:

Revenue: 184.504 billion Chinese yuan ($25.7 billion), compared to 161.117 billion Chinese yuan in the same period last year

184.504 billion Chinese yuan ($25.7 billion), compared to 161.117 billion Chinese yuan in the same period last year Operating profit: 63.052 billion yuan, versus 57.313 billion yuan last year

Domestic games revenue, which accounts for sales from China, rose 17% year-on-year to 40.4 billion yuan thanks to the performance of the company's newly-released "Delta Force" game and evergreen titles such as "Honor of Kings," "VALORANT" and "Peacekeeper Elite."

Revenue from its international gaming business totaled 18.8 billion yuan, a 35% year-on-year increase driven by games such as "PUBG Mobile," and the recently-released "Dune: Awakening."

Meanwhile, Tencent said that AI-driven improvements to the company's advertising platform and Weixin transaction ecosystem helped boost marketing services revenue by 20% in the quarter to 35.8 billion yuan.

"During the second quarter of 2025, we delivered double-digit revenue and non-IFRS operating profit growth on a year-on-year basis, as we invested in, and also benefitted from, utilising AI," said Tencent CEO Ma Huateng.

Tencent said its capital expenditures surged 119% to 19.1 billion yuan in the second quarter, as the tech giant invested in AI upgrades for advertising, its gaming business and social media service Weixin.

The Shenzhen-headquartered company's music unit posted better-than-expected results thanks to growth in strong growth from subscription and non-subscription online music revenue, according to Citi's Alicia Yap. The firm said Tencent Music had 124 million music subscribers, up slightly from 123 million subscribers noted in Tencent's first-quarter report.

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, Tencent Music "continues to drive high-quality growth in subscription revenues, growth momentum from fans economy, concert and ad revs will support faster-than-previously expected full year growth," Yap said in a note.

Tencent, like other cloud computing firms, has put a higher focus on selling artificial intelligence tools as a way to boost revenue and differentiate its offerings from those of its rivals.

Earlier this summer, Tencent revealed it is looking to bring its cloud computing capabilities to Europe, pitching it against U.S. hyperscalers Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet-owned Google, which collectively make up 70% share of Europe's cloud market.

"We are striving to bring further benefits of AI to consumers and enterprises through powering more use cases within Weixin, driving usage of our AI native app Yuanbao, and upgrading the capabilities of our HunYuan foundation models," Huateng said in the Wednesday earnings release.

 CNBC's Arjun Kharpal contributed to this report.
watch now

The Trump administration is considering 11 candidates to replace Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell when his term expires in May, including three who have not previously been publicly named, according to two administration officials who declined to be named. The new names include Jefferies Chief Market Strategist David Zervos, former Fed Governor Larry Lindsey and Rick Rieder, chief investment officer for global fixed income at BlackRock. They now join a list of eight other candidates that CNBC has confirmed are under consideration, including Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman, Fed Governor Chris Waller and Fed Vice Chair Philip Jefferson. The officials also confirmed the candidates include Marc Sumerlin, an economic advisor in the Bush administration, Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan and former St. Louis Fed President James Bullard.

David Zervos, chief market strategist at Jefferies LLC, during the iConnections Global Alts 2024 event in Miami Beach, Florida, US, on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. Speakers at the event will share insights and strategies related to alternative investments. Eva Marie Uzcategui/ | Bloomberg | Getty Images

President Donald Trump recently told CNBC in an interview that Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh were among those on his list. The officials described a "deliberative process" where Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will interview all of the candidates, winnow down the list and pass on a final list to the president for his decision. The size of the list and the process described suggest a decision is not imminent and could take a considerable amount of time. But the officials would not offer a timetable.

Rick Rieder, BlackRock's senior managing director, speaking at the Delivering Alpha conference in New York City on Sept. 28, 2023. Adam Jeffery | CNBC

The longer the process takes, the less likely there is to be a so-called shadow Fed chair in place for several months before Powell leaves, which some have suggested would be disruptive for monetary policy. Though sharply critical  on an almost daily basis  of Powell, Trump has backed off suggestions he might replace the Fed chair before the end of his term in May. While many of the candidates have advocated various levels of reform at the Fed, most have supported its independence and have experience in monetary policy and financial markets.
US President Donald Trump speaks during the unveiling of the Kennedy Center Honors nominees on August 13, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday shrugged off a question about a new report that Russia is at least partially responsible for hacking the electronic system that manages U.S. federal court case documents.

"Are you surprised?" Trump said during a press event at the Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C.

"They hack in, that's what they do," he said about Russia.

"They're good at it, we're good at it, we're actually better at it."

Revelations of the breach came days before Trump is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska about Russia's war against Ukraine.

Trump said that he "could" bring up the hack during the meeting.

The New York Times reported Tuesday that evidence shows that an entity in Russia appeared to have hacked the court case document system and "recently compromised sealed records."

That system, in addition to containing publicly available court documents, also has hidden records, including information on individuals charged with national security crimes.

"Some of the searches included midlevel criminal cases in the New York City area and several other jurisdictions, with some cases involving people with Russian and Eastern European surnames," the Times reported.

The hack is believed to be part of a yearslong effort, the news outlet reported.
A New York state man was arrested Wednesday and charged with leaving threatening voicemails for the widow of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson hours after Thompson was fatally shot on a Manhattan sidewalk in December.

The suspect, Shane Daley, left Paulette Thompson profanity-laced voicemails calling her husband a "f------ capitalist pig" and declaring he died because he was "profiting off the backs of poor Americans," according to a criminal complaint in Albany federal court charging Daley with cyberstalking.

"This s--- is gonna keep happening to you f------ p-----," Daley, 40, warned Paulette in one of three voicemails he left on her work phone in Minnesota the night of Dec. 4, according to an FBI affidavit.

"You all deserve to f------ die and burn in hell," Daley said in another of those messages left for Paulette that same night, the affidavit said.

Brian Thompson was killed that morning as he was about to walk into an investor conference in a midtown Manhattan hotel. Luigi Mangione, 27, has been charged with his murder in both federal and state courts in New York.

On Dec. 7, Daley left a fourth voicemail on Paulette's office phone, according to the affidavit.

Paulette is not identified by name in the affidavit.

But its description of "Victim-1" makes clear she was the messages' recipient. The affidavit says that in one of the messages, Daley mockingly quoted a public statement Paulette Thompson issued in the wake of her husband's assassination.

The transcriptions of the voicemails also feature sexist language and refer to the Thompsons' children.

Thompson's slaying generated public sympathy for his family, but also led to an outpouring of anger at U.S. health-care companies, including UnitedHealthcare, which is a division of UnitedHealth Group .

Daley's calls were "more than callous and cold-hearted," said Christopher Raia, assistant director in charge of the FBI's New York office.

"They were threatening and terrified a family already suffering following the violent death of their loved one," Raia said.

The affidavit said investigators linked Daley to the messages because his personal cellphone number was recorded by Paulette's company leaving the four voicemails and making five other calls to her work line.

The FBI and other law enforcement officers on July 30 stopped Daley near his home and executed a search warrant to seize his phone, the affidavit said.

The FBI agent who wrote the affidavit said that when he talked to Daley that day, he recognized his voice as the same one who left the threatening messages.

"When asked, Daley initially denied placing any threatening and harassing calls," the agent wrote.
(COMBO) This combination of pictures created on February 21, 2020 shows US President Donald Trump delivers remarks at a Keep America Great rally in Phoenix, Arizona, on February 19, 2020. Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during a ceremony in Jerusalem on January 23, 2020 commemorating the people of Leningrad during the Second World War Nazi siege on the city.

U.S. President Donald Trump will approach his encounter with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin as a "listening exercise," the White House said, taming expectations that this week's Alaska summit could yield a deal to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"This is a listening exercise for the president. Look, only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present," White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday. "And so this is for the president to go and, again, to get a more firm and better understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end."

The shift to downplaying the Friday meeting between the two heads of state  which will take place at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, according to NBC News reporting  takes place as Russia has deepened its advance in eastern Ukraine, in a likely bid for battlefield leverage ahead of negotiations. Moscow has persisted on a set of maximalist conditions to cease the devastating war in Ukraine, including the retainment of occupied territories, Kyiv's renunciation of its ambitions to join the NATO alliance and fresh elections in the invaded country.

Concerns have been growing in Kyiv and among its European allies that an increasingly frustrated Trump, who has criticized both Russia and Ukraine over the course of the U.S.-brokered discussions, could push through peace at the price of territorial concessions.

Trump on Monday circulated the notion of "land swapping" between the parties at war, although it remains unclear what Russian territories would be affected as part of this exercise, given Kyiv's lack of land gains.

"There will be some land swapping going on. I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody. To the good, for the good of Ukraine. Good stuff, not bad stuff. Also some bad stuff, for both," the U.S. president told reporters on Monday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly rejected the possibility of surrendering ground  with the European Union likewise touting the need to respect "territorial integrity"  and has insisted that Kyiv should be included in peace conversations aiming for a final outcome.

"As for the negotiations, in any case, they are important at the leadership level. But it is impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine, and no one will accept that," Zelenskyy said Tuesday in translated video footage carried by the Associated Press. "So the conversation between Putin and Trump may be important for their bilateral track, but they cannot agree on anything about Ukraine without us."

Speaking to CNBC on Tuesday, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas lambasted Putin as "just pretending to negotiate" and stressed the Kremlin leader "doesn't want Zelenskyy around that table, because that would reveal that he actually doesn't want to negotiate, and he just wants to have a picture with President Trump and also postpone sanctions."
Singapore police have handed over luxury items seized during the S$3 billion (US$2.33 billion) money laundering case to professional services firm Deloitte to manage and liquidate. According to the South China Morning Post, the items were confiscated from money launderers convicted in the country's largest laundering case.A total of 466 luxury products and 58 gold bars were distributed over the course of two days. These contain over 50 branded bags manufactured by Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Dior, and Chanel, Channel News Asia reported. Each gold bar weighs between 999g and one kilogram and is valued at around S$139,000.The money laundering case surfaced following island-wide police raids in August 2023. It involved millions of dollars acquired over the years by an illegal gaming ring based in Southeast Asia, with offenders hailing from China.Ten offenders (9 men, 1 woman) from China with criminal backgrounds have been convicted and deported after serving their sentences.According to online postings by brokers such as Sotheby's, the handbags include a Hermes Birkin 25 Togo bag with an estimated worth of S$30,000 and a Hermes Kelly Alligator bag with a price range of S$70,000 to S$120,000. There were 14 premium watches from companies, including Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, Van Cleef & Arpels, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet.One of the watches seen is a Patek Philippe World Time Chronograph worth an estimated S$120,000. There was also a Richard Mille RM 67, which online marketplace Chrono24 estimates is worth more than S$400,000, according to Channel News Asia.In addition to these items, 13 cases of jewellery pieces like earrings, bracelets, jade necklaces, one gold display plate, and one luxury belt were also on display.In a statement, the police on Tuesday stated that they appointed Deloitte & Touche Financial Advisory Services for the management and realisation of the non-cash assets seized.Deloitte will store assets securely and sell them via auctions or direct selling upon government approval after the handover.In response to media inquiries, police stated that proposals for sale will be submitted by Deloitte to police in 'due course'. Deloitte will commence the realisation of the assets, upon the government's approval of the proposals.


This is the third hateful attack on a BAPS Temple. We must prosecute the perpetrators and educate against hate.

We must all call out hatred and bigotry when we see it. https://t.co/B6Pi1kZ5vi pic.twitter.com/928xxIPdGP



 Tom Suozzi (@RepTomSuozzi) August 11, 2025

A Hindu temple was desecrated in the Indiana state of United States, with hateful remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The incident happened on outdoor sign board of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Greenwood, Indiana on the night of August 10, according to the temple.The signboard was removed after the matter was reported to the Greenwood Police on August 11, which is being investigated by the authorities, as per BAPS spokesperson, reported IndyStar, a news portal affiliated with USA Today network.The action has drawn a sharp response from the Indian mission to the US. The Consulate General of India in Chicago said that the incident is "reprehensible" and demanded "prompt action" from the local authorities."Desecration of the main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana, is reprehensible. The Consulate is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with law enforcement authorities for prompt action," the Consulate said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on August 13."Today, Consul General addressed a gathering of devotees and local leadership, including Honble Mayor of Greenwood, calling for unity and solidarity, and vigilance against miscreants there," it added.The temple has appealed for peace and harmony, stating that it had reported the matter to the law enforcement authorities. "We are deeply saddened that on the night of Aug 10, 2025, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Greenwood, IN was desecrated and vandalised with a message of hate and intolerance. We have reported this hate crime to law enforcement," the temple said in a statement as an "Appeal for Peace" on its website."We sincerely appreciate the support of neighbours, public officials, community members, and leaders against all forms of hate. We will continue to pray for peace and harmony amongst people of all backgrounds and beliefs," it added.BAPS public affairs account on X said, "For the fifth time in less than a year, one of our Mandirs has been desecrated by a hateful act. The anti-Hindu hate crime against the BAPS Mandir in Greenwood, Indiana, has only strengthened our communitys resolve, and we remain united in our stand against anti-religious behaviour."A video of the vandalism was shared on X. The video shows the signboard of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Mandir, written with "Hind-stan Modi Murdabad" with black spray paint.The BAPS temple's desecration is the third such attack on the Hindu religious sites in 2025, according to the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) organisation.Earlier on June 18, structural damage due to gunshots was reported at ISKCON temple in Utah. The devotees were present at the temple when multiple gunshots were reportedly fired.On March 8, a BAPS temple in Southern California was vandalised with anti-India messages.In 2023, eight such attacks on Hindu temples and sites were reported."We understand local police are investigating and we urge them to treat this as a hate crime and to study this crime against the background of a growing national problem," the CoHNA wrote in a statement on X."For the minority Hindu community in the US, freedom of religion feels like an increasingly hollow promise. When our places of worship are attacked with impunity, where does a Hindu go for religious ceremonies, for spiritual solace and for community?" it added.Tom Suozzi, Member of Congress, who represents New York's third Congressional District, said that the "hateful attack" on the BAPS temple must be held accountable. "We must prosecute the perpetrators and educate against hate. We must all call out hatred and bigotry when we see it," he said on X while sharing a video clip of his speech on the matter in the House.Another Congressman Nick LaLota came in support of the Hindu community by stating, "Religiously motivated crimes like these must be condemned and those who commit them must be held accountable. Live and let live!" on X.
3.1.2 Fixed General Bugs

- Samsung 57" Odyssey Neo G9 Flicker/Underflow when idle at desktop [5361116]

- Some notebook displays may appear dim when an external HDR monitor is connected and display mode is set to "NVIDIA GPU only" [5429667]

De nouveaux drivers sont disponibles du cote de, il s'agit des, qui sont telechargeables ici Outre la signature numerique, on note le support de la technologie DLSS 4 pour les jeux Senuas Saga: Hellblade II Enhanced et Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced.
The 51st season of Saturday Night Live will premiere on October 4th. Well, at least thats the hope.

Bowen Yang recently guested on WTF with Marc Maron and admitted that hes not entirely confident about the shows future, now that other late-night shows critical of President Trump are being randomly yanked off of the air.

When asked whether or not everything is okay at SNL, Yang responded, I think so. I mean, I hope were on the air.

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When asked to elaborate, the Wicked star revealed that he fears for the shows future after this Colbert shit.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was famously canceled by CBS, allegedly for financial reasons. But clearly a whole lot of people arent buying that explanation, given Colberts his comments about CBS parent company Paramount seemingly bribing U.S. president Donald Trump with a $16 million settlement, conveniently in advance of their proposed merger with Skydance Media, which was eventually approved by the Trump administrations FCC.

When Maron pointed out that SNL is on NBC, not CBS, Yang still wasnt entirely convinced. Yeah, youre right. But like, if they decide to merge out of nowhere I dont know, he responded.

It could happen to anybody, I guess, Maron reasoned.

Yang also recalled a recent dinner with an SNL writer in which the co-workers discussed what the vibe of the upcoming season will be, presumably due to the palpable atmosphere of dread that seems to surround most living things at the moment and the precarious state of network comedy. He also expressed genuine concern for fellow cast member James Austin Johnson, who of course, plays Trump on the show. We were like, should he be worried at all? Like, all it takes is for Trump to say one thing about him.

I dont want to engender any sort of fear on anyones behalf, Yang continued, but I just think Im interested to see what the show will be like.

Maron suggested that Trump may not pick on Johnson the way he publicly complained about Alec Baldwin because he had an axe to grind with Baldwin that preceded SNL. That guy was always up his ass for whatever reason. Plus, Trump hasnt been paying a lot of attention to SNL lately.

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After comparing Trump to Mao Zedong, Yang pointed out that during the Chinese Cultural Revolution, Mao destroyed everything else but kept the hutongs intact, referring to Beijings historic alleyways. What is SNL if not an American cultural hutong? he joked.

Given the current state of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, perhaps SNL will survive by inviting Greg Gutfeld to host the premiere and/or making jacked Trump a non-ironic recurring character.
No contemporary comedian got more mileage out of corny puns and ridiculous punchlines than the late Norm Macdonald. He often shared his own fathers favorite joke, although that shifted depending on who he was talking to. Heres one:

Roses are gray

Violets are gray

Tulips are gray

Because Im a dog

When Norm was with Larry King, he shared a different supposed favorite:

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A fellow, Elmer, couldnt remember, so he went to the doctor to get memory pills. They worked. Then his friend comes over. Elmer, what were those memory pills you got? I want to get them. What are they called?

Elmer couldnt remember. Whats the name of that flower?

The other guy doesnt know  there are a lot of flowers. A tulip?

No, that wasnt it. You put it in a lapel

A carnation?

Elmer said no. Its long-stemmed, a romantic flower

Oh, says his friend. A rose!

Yes! Albert says before turning to the kitchen. Rose, what was the name of that medication the doctor gave me?

Hoo boy. Fans on Reddit have been collecting more of the corniest jokes that Macdonald ever told. Ive added a few of my own to amass this assortment of 14 of Macdonalds doofiest dad jokes.

1 Why do dogs get so excited when the doorbell rings? Its almost never for them.

2 Johnny Depp has taken this Sexiest Man Alive thing, and hes using it to his benefit. In his new movie, Pirates of the Caribbean 3, hell be doing full-frontal nudity. Yeah, its rated Arrrrrrrr!

3 Did you know all the planets in our solar system are named after Roman gods? Except Earth, which is named after all that stuff on the ground.

4 My wife dresses up like a nurse. I dress up like a nurse, also. We dont even have sex, either. We just sit behind this huge, semicircular wooden desk and get annoyed when people buzz us for juice.

5 Greg Giraldo has the grace of a swan, the wisdom of an owl and the eye of an eagle  ladies and gentlemen, this man is for the birds!

6 I always thought I was incomplete before I met my wife. Now Im finished.

7 Advertisement They say that English is the hardest language to learn, but to me its the easiest.

8 A new study found that men with beards are more attractive. More great work from the University of Bob Seger.

9 In my opinion, if youre going to fight the war on terror, a good place to start would be this nations haunted houses.

10 I am a workaholic. For many years, I was helplessly addicted to workahol.

11 A Westchester parking enforcement officer stole $89,000 in quarters. How much laundry does this guy need to do?

12 In New York yesterday, it was so windy I saw Glenn Campbell in the street and his hair moved."

13 Two strangers were arrested for having sex on a plane. You know who I feel sorry for? The guy in the middle seat.
The Porygon episode of Pokemon catches a lot of flak for triggering a ton of kids epilepsy, but it was actually Pikachu who launched that bizarre red and blue lightning. This is just like Justin Timberlake letting Janet Jackson take the fall for Nipplegate. Justice for Porygon!

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14 South Park: Dr. Mephesto He was a staple of early episodes that needed some kind of mad science, like Stans evil clone or mutant turkeys, but his services were no longer required as the writers figured out other ways to cause mayhem. In South Park: Post COVID, he was just a disembodied ass floating in a jar of green goo. Advertisement

13 The Fairly OddParents: Tootie Timmys be-braced, no-so-secret admirer began slipping away as the animated show wore on, but came roaring back in the live-action films as Timmys love interest.

12 Looney Tunes: Pepe Le Pew A date-raping Frenchman was a perfectly acceptable cartoon character when he debuted in 1945. And also 1996 when he appeared in Space Jam. But in 2021, the New York Times chronicled his numerous assaults, and Warner Bros. scrubbed him from Space Jam 2, which came out later that year.

11 Looney Tunes: Speedy Gonzalez On the opposite end of the spectrum, Cartoon Network took Speedy out of their rotation in 1999, conceding some racial insensitivity. But some saw him as a heroic, clever character, and lobbying from the League of United Latin American Citizens, among other groups, saw him actually reintroduced in Space Jam 2. Advertisement Advertisement

10 Chip n Dale: Rescue Rangers: Monterey Jack The fat-faced, cheese loving, mustachioed mouse whose best friend is a fly is barely in the 2022 Disney+ film, and is the only Ranger who wasnt voiced by his original voice actor. Canonically, he joined the criminal underworld because he racked up too much cheese debt.

9 Pokemon: Porygon This polygonal Pokemon was at the center of a bizarre controversy in 1996, when an episode of the show reportedly caused 600 kids to be hospitalized. The culprit ended up being a lightning bolt shot at Porygon by Pikachu, but the episode was shelved along with the characters chances at mainstream stardom. Advertisement

8 South Park: Chef Isaac Hayes left South Park almost 20 years ago, and details of the controversy continue to leak out. At the time, Hayes said he left the show after a 2005 episode that skewered Scientology, the cult-religion that Hayes was a part of. In recent years, his family has said that he was most likely forced out by his Scientology handlers. Either way, Chef was brutally killed off in a 2006 episode that used lines of dialogue from previous episodes. Advertisement

7 Wreck-It Ralph: Fix-It Felix Voiced by Jack McBrayer, and married to Jane Lynchs Sergeant Calhoun, Felix seemed prime for a spin-off. But Felix and Calhoun were reduced to an ill-fitting subplot in the sequel, Ralph Breaks the Internet. Advertisement

6 The Simpsons: Maude Flanders Voice actor Maggie Roswell grew sick of living in Los Angeles just to occasionally record her parts (Maude Flanders, Helen Lovejoy, Miss Hoover and Luann Van Houten), so she moved to Denver in 1994. She requested a pay raise to account for her flights back and forth, but the producers refused and opted instead to widow Ned Flanders via a tragic T-shirt gun accident.

5 The Simpsons: Apu Notable white person Hank Azaria has been extremely reasonable about the cancellation of one of his most recognizable characters. Apu hasnt had a speaking role on the show since 2016, and Azaria has taken accountability for playing the character for so long: Through my role in Apu and what I created in Hollywood messaging I helped to create a pretty marginalizing, dehumanizing stereotype. Advertisement

4 DuckTales: Duckworth When Disney rebooted the series in 2017, they turned Scrooge McDucks loyal butler into a ghost. Thats like having Alfred show up in a Batman movie and say, Im dead now, but dont be mad at DC, I like being a ghost. Advertisement

3 Static Shock: Richie Despite being explicitly gay in the DC comics, the show was forced to appease censors by making him straight. Creator and writer Dwayne McDuffie said of TV Richie, The way I dealt with Richies homosexuality was to write him aggressively and unconvincingly announcing his heterosexuality whenever possible. It appears censors may have caught on, and the character was quietly shelved throughout most of the final season. Advertisement

2 The Powerpuff Girls: Ms. Bellum The mayors faceless assistant, who was quite literally all legs and cleavage, was left out of the 2016 remake. According to executive producer Nick Jennings, We felt like Ms. Bellum wasnt quite indicative of the kind of messaging we wanted to be giving out at this time, so we sort of had her move on.
There arent too many tears being shed over the potential end of The Howard Stern Show when his contract comes to an end. While his later career included a pivot to fewer shock-jock take-downs of celebrities and more soft centrist political takes, those he interviewed in his heyday havent forgiven or forgotten how Stern became a household name.

One of the many people still holding a grudge is Corey Feldman, best known for his roles in 80s cult hits like The Goonies, Stand By Me and The Lost Boys. As a child actor during a decade known for its hard drugs and rampant sexual abuse, Feldmans life has been rife with tragedy, controversy and substance abuse.

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On Monday, Feldman reacted to a post on X from a political commentary account that went viral. The post and following thread detailed Diffrent Strokes star Dana Platos May 1999 appearance on The Howard Stern Show. She was raw, emotional and clearly struggling, trying to claw her way back from years of addiction, poverty and tabloid ridicule, the post detailed. She told Stern she was sober and doing her best.

The post went on to recount the history: Plato appeared on The Howard Stern show on May 7, 1999. She died of an overdose on May 8, 1999. Howard Stern didnt kill Dana Plato, just to be clear, the post continued. But he kicked her while she was down, on one of the most humiliating public stages imaginable. Howard Stern took a vulnerable, broken woman and made her pain into a performance. Because it got laughs. Because it got ratings.

This sentiment clearly resonated with Feldman. Thank u 4 posting all of this! I concur I am 1 of those recovering addicts Stern kicked in the head @ 19 years old, Feldman wrote. ...Thanx Howard! U made my struggle so much harder!

In a response to another post, Feldman continued: I was a kid trying 2 build my life after rehab recovering from being a drug addict due 2 my pedophile drugging me B4 abusing me. So he jumped in 2 beat me back down, & make sure my single was seen as a Joke instead of a hit.

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This isnt the first time that Feldman has brought up the experience of performing on Sterns show. In 2024, he appeared on Howie Mandels show to discuss it as well, attributing Sterns mockery to the failure of Feldmans single Whats Up With the Youth and broader challenges Feldman has faced in his music career.

Watching the clip back, its clear that Feldman is taking his performance, which certainly can be critiqued in its own right, very seriously, while Stern and the hired performers are there to mock it. Its sad and also very 90s.

Is Stern the whole reason  or even the main reason  that Feldmans life and career turned out the way that it did? Absolutely not. But do I get a little sad thinking about a clearly misguided 19-year-old Feldman performing in earnest to an audience only wanting to laugh at him? Yeah, of course.
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There is no question that violence against medical staff is totally unacceptable.

Yesterdays report by the Royal College of Nursing paints a worrying picture of physical and verbal assault in hospitals and in particular A&E, with one worker attacked every two hours.

Nothing excuses such behaviour. But there is a telling line in the RCNs report: Middle-class patients and their families are among those driven to rage by long waits and dehumanising care in corridors.

Britains middle classes are the backbone of this country. We are polite, hard-working, law-abiding and, for the most part, non-complaining. We get up early, do what were told and generally try to live useful and productive lives.

Our hard work and taxes pay for education, healthcare, infrastructure  and, of course, for all those who, for whatever reason, are unable (or unwilling) to fend for themselves.

We get no thanks for it, of course. In fact, we are often mocked for our values, belittled for our love of fairness and order, characterised as bourgeois and small-minded.

Our political classes take us for granted. We live in a world which increasingly seems to reward failure, and where those who do the right thing are punished by a system seemingly ever-more intent on bleeding us dry.

Inheritance tax on pensions, crippling taxes on small business, rapacious grabs on property... the list is endless. Sometimes you have to ask yourself: why do I even bother?

This injury wasnt self-inflicted. It was a simple accident. And yet  along with pretty much everyone else that long night  I had been made to feel like something you find on the bottom of your shoe, writes Sarah Vine

Still, we plough on, because its who we are. But when even the docile and compliant middle classes are driven to rage, you know something is seriously wrong.

In the case of frontline health services, we all know budgets are tight. But thats not our fault; thats the fault of successive governments who have shied away from the tough decisions needed to reform the NHS while allowing wave after wave of uncontrolled migration to place ever more pressure on the system.

Meanwhile, weve kept our side of the bargain, funding this profligacy through our (rising) taxes. I think were perfectly entitled to feel a bit miffed when things dont work.

Especially when, on the rare occasions when we do need to access some of the services weve paid for, we are treated at best with indifference, at worst contempt.

We all get that staff are stretched. And I understand that this report by the RCN is designed to flag a real problem. But they might also want to consider a few hard truths: kindness and compassion cost nothing. And the sad fact is there seems to be precious little of either in the health service these days. Id go so far as to say that many medical staff seem to actively despise their patients.

That has been my experience, at least, in the past few years of dealing with the NHS. If you are polite and patient, you just end up being penalised, while those who make the loudest fuss are dealt with quickly.

And when, last week, I was foolish enough to break my ankle while visiting friends in north Norfolk, this grim reality was brought into sharp (and painful) focus.

The trouble with that part of the world is that its so damn pretty you take your eye off the road. In my case, distracted by a church on the horizon, I stumbled into a ditch. There was an audible pop, and an explosion of pain.

According to Vine, 'if you treat people with hostility and incompetence, you cant expect them just to take it lying down'

Alas Vine & Hitchens: What's the big idea? Get the Mail's new politics podcast, hosted by columnists Sarah Vine and Peter Hitchens - wherever you listen to podcasts now.

Oh dear, said my friend. That sounds like a trip to the hospital.

We headed to Kings Lynn A&E. But when we arrived, the queue was so long it was snaking out onto the road.

I decided to go back to her house, pop some paracetamol, pack it with ice and wait and see. It was probably just a sprain.

Fat chance. By the time we got back, I couldnt put any weight on it at all. Any sort of movement was agony and it was turning an unpleasant shade of mushroom.

I had planned to stay the weekend but clearly that was pointless now. My friend knew someone who was driving to London that evening, so I decided to hitch a ride in the hope I could get it seen to closer to home.

Three hours and what felt like about a million potholes later, the dogs and I arrived back in West London. With the help of my daughter, I hauled myself up the stairs and into the house on my bum and then up another two floors to the bathroom. Whereupon I fell over and banged the affected ankle trying to go to the loo. Ouch.

The ambulance crew were very sweet. One of them said his mum read the Daily Mail (if you are reading this and your son was on duty in West London last Thursday, please send him my thanks). Despite my protestations, they insisted I go to hospital.

And that, dear reader, is where my troubles really began.

In fairness, I was assessed relatively quickly and sent for an X-ray. But when I got there, I was instructed to lie my foot flat on the machine, which I just couldnt do: it was too painful.

Impatiently, the nurse  rather more of the Ratched than Florence Nightingale school  just held it and forced it firmly into place.

Tears pricked my eyes, but I was too embarrassed  and actually a bit shocked  to say anything.

After she had finished, I hopped back to the wheelchair, shooting pains in my leg. Where am I supposed to put you now? she asked, as she wheeled me back down the corridor.

How was I supposed to know?

After some deliberation she parked me back in the main waiting room. By now it was about 1.30am, more than eight hours since the fall which, as it turned out, had broken my ankle. I was tired, shivery and in a lot of discomfort. No one had offered me painkillers and, since Ratched had disappeared behind the double doors, there was no one to ask.

Ive sat in public toilets more salubrious than that waiting room. The stench of booze, cigarettes and urine was impossible to escape. Several gentlemen of the road were in residence, in various stages of stupefaction.

A few seats away, one was asleep on a rucksack. Every now and again he would come to, shout a few unintelligible words then pass out again. Further away, towards the vending machine, a man in his 20s was talking to himself, eyeing the other patients with ill-concealed malice.

The seats were hard and edged with rigid metal armrests, obviously designed to prevent people from falling asleep in them. Unless blind drunk and insensible, of course.

For anyone not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the Guantanamo Bay-style strip lighting and incessant pop music made any semblance of comfort or rest impossible. In fact, the entire set-up had clearly been designed to encourage people to give up and go home. Which several people did, including one elderly man who had come in with his wife, complaining of chest pains. I hope it was nothing serious.

The only point of contact with authority was a Cerberus-like creature behind a glass screen, which one had to address via a narrow slit, as though through a cell door. One by one as the hours ticked past, we supplicants made the pilgrimage.

Please sir, when will I be seen? the answer wasnt quite a growl, but almost. Somewhere around 4am, by now needing a pee, I approached the altar myself, hopping on one foot.

One of the security guards watched me with faint amusement. I dont imagine it occurred to him to help. I asked whether I could be given a pair of crutches so I could go to the loo.

I was told that I couldnt have crutches until I had seen a doctor. When would that be, I wondered? When they were ready for me.

I hopped back to my perch, crossed my legs and waited.

It was approaching 6am when my name was finally called. Almost 12 hours since the accident.

A young female doctor told me what I already knew: I had fractured my ankle. I would need a boot and a course of blood thinners. Our interaction lasted approximately four minutes, maybe less.

The nurse arrived with the boot (doctors dont do boots, apparently). Perhaps because she didnt speak much English, perhaps because I was very tired and not making much sense, she failed to understand me when I said I couldnt put my foot flat inside the boot.

She kept pushing my heel down, which  as I had not had any painkillers  was horrible.

Eventually she got me strapped in and handed me some crutches. I stood up, and it was agony. She could see I was in pain, yet she said nothing, just went away and came back with a cup of water and two white pills. Co-codamol, she said, and I took them. I spent the next few minutes trying, and failing, to control my tears.

All I wanted now was to get out of there. She returned a few minutes later with my blood thinners, a box of daily injections, and an appointment card for the fracture clinic. I was done.

I made my way back to the waiting room, unaided, every step agony, messaged my daughter to come and get me and sat there, woozy with the drugs, wondering what I had done wrong to be treated with such contempt.

I wasnt angry, I wasnt abusive, I wasnt drunk.

This injury wasnt self-inflicted. It was a simple accident.

And yet  along with pretty much everyone else that long night  I had been made to feel like something you find on the bottom of your shoe.

So, Im just putting it out there: maybe thats why patients are getting upset. Maybe thats why they are losing their tempers.

We all appreciate that the system is under pressure, and we all appreciate the hard work that doctors and nurses do.

As I said, violence is never acceptable. I condemn it completely. But if you treat people with hostility and incompetence, you cant expect them just to take it lying down.

When you treat us like scum, can you really expect us to just keep smiling?
The last time I saw Liz Truss as Prime Minister, we were discussing our mutual love of South London.

Truss lives in Greenwich, and Im in nearby Blackheath. Her elevation to Downing Street had spawned a number of articles focusing on her social circle and, in particular, on her affection for Deptford, the capitals latest food hotspot.

Deptfords fantastic! she told me, before launching into a list of her favourite eateries and watering holes.

Sadly, Liz Truss doesnt love Deptford any more.

Thats because our former Prime Minister has joined the ranks of the Union Jack Catastrophists, that swelling band of cranks and conspiracy theorists who claim the United Kingdom in general, and London in particular, have become a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah.

Trusss hometown was now a haven for an elite that hates Britain, she told American Right-wing commentator Ben Shapiro.

The opening ceremony to our 2012 Olympics  which she had warmly praised at the time, and which featured as its centrepiece James Bond, the late Queen, an appreciation of Britains role in the industrial revolution and the creation of the NHS  did not represent the average Briton, she claimed.

It was time to energise the British patriots who generally dont live in London, she urged.

According to according to Keir Starmer 'the NHS is broken. And the Conservatives broke it'

To be fair, this was at least a more sophisticated analysis than that proffered by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe.

Having spent last week chasing after four charity rowers he believed were illegal migrants, the member for Great Yarmouth declared on X that London was now a crime-ridden dump.

In the wake of these increasingly hysterical and apocalyptic interventions, the liberal intelligentsia has begun to mobilise.

Last week, Times journalist Fraser Nelson penned a lauded piece which claimed, the populist narrative of a migrant-driven crimewave is catnip on social media and oil to the wheels of Reform. But it is so far from the truth that were in danger of losing sight of the country we live in.

And it is indeed important that the Union Jack Catastrophists are challenged. Britain has many problems, and they are mounting. But they are driven primarily by the fact that, to many people, the United Kingdom is actually an incredibly desirable location.

The breakdown in our immigration system and the attendant pressures on housing, the NHS and other infrastructure is testament to British success, not failure.

Similarly, London is bearing the brunt of many of those pressures. But it is still one of the worlds great cities. And has to an extent been insulated from the post-industrial neglect and decline that has blighted a number of other UK regions.

So, the sudden scramble by the progressive Left to counter this malign narrative is necessary. But it might be a touch more effective if that same progressive Left hadnt itself spent the past decade-and-a-half practising its own brand of Red Flag Catastrophism.

Yesterday, Education Minister Jacqui Smith invited ridicule after attempting to claim the Government was indeed failing to tackle the migrant crisis, but pointing the finger of blame squarely at the previous government. Which perfectly encapsulates the problem

Take the issue of crime. Over the past week, social media has been awash with charts and graphs and tables showing crime rates have actually been falling over the past two decades.

In some categories crime has indeed declined, though in others, there has been a rise. So, the truth is that the picture on crime is complex.

But until recently, it wasnt at all complex. Not, at least, according to the champions of the Left.

Over the past decade, the nations sense of security has been badly eroded. Serious violence is too high. Growing numbers of young people are drawn into gangs, drug dealing and violence at ever earlier ages. Antisocial behaviour blights our town and city centres. Fewer criminals are being caught and punished. More victims are being let down.

This nightmarish vision wasnt peddled by Nigel Farage. It was Keir Starmers, in his 2024 election manifesto. The wheels oiled by this rhetoric werent Reforms, but Labours.

At every election you will hear the same mantra, as if snatched directly from the pages of the Buck Rogers fantasy comic strip: Vote Labour tomorrow. You only have 24 hours to save the NHS!

According to Keir Starmer last July, The NHS is broken. And the Conservatives broke it.

And not just the NHS. Peruse the speeches of shadow ministers over the past 15 years. The education system. The transport system. The judicial system. Our armed forces. Everywhere you look, Britain has purportedly been run into the ground.

Red Flag Catastrophism plumbed such depths that even the most senior members of the Government have been forced to admit they had spread the poison too far.

So doom-laden were Labours economic prognostications immediately before and after the election, that Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves were forced to finally acknowledge the concerns of business leaders. Thats why they suddenly - and frantically - began to talk up Great Britain PLC, instead of claiming it had disappeared into a Tory black-hole.

Over the past two decades the picture the Left have painted of Britain hasnt simply been one of a nation suffering from poor governance. But of a country undergoing a complete social, economic and moral implosion.

Soon after being elected Labour leader, Keir Starmer wrote an article for the Guardian in which he railed against the corruption he claimed was eating away at the heart of the British state.

Last week, the prime minister was pontificating on why the Roman empire collapsed. He notably failed to mention that one of the main factors was that the people grew tired of the arrogance and corruption of their rulers, he stormed.

People talk about the hyperbole of the populist Right. But until recently Keir Starmer was perfectly happy drawing parallels between Boris Johnson and Nero, and comparing Britains problems with the Visigoths sacking of Rome.

At the heart of the current liberal backlash is a perception the Union Jack Catastrophists are using their lurid prophesies of impending national collapse to stir up tensions around immigration and race. Again, with some justification.

And again, that criticism would have greater validity if the liberal Left hadnt its own proclivity for hyping up social friction.

In 2021, a report commissioned by Downing Street into Race and Ethnic Disparities had the temerity to suggest that, in recent years, the United Kingdom had actually become more open and fairer.

It was immediately pounced on as being divisive. Frances OGrady, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, said the commission behind the report had chosen to deny the experiences of black and minority ethnic workers.

A National Audit Office report in January might have been more to her taste. This claimed that Britain is in the midst of an epidemic of violence against women and girls. It echoed a narrative that has been promoted vigorously by those on the Left, with Keir Starmer making the issue a key focus of his administration.

Until last week, that is, when two of Labours political opponents, Nigel Farage and Robert Jenrick, themselves took up the cudgels and began to highlight a statistical link between crimes of sexual violence and certain migrant groups.

At which point they were denounced by the Left as hatemongers and buried beneath a blizzard of statistics showing crime rates are actually plummeting.

Yesterday, Education Minister Jacqui Smith invited ridicule after attempting to claim that Government was indeed failing to tackle the migrant crisis  while pointing the finger of blame squarely at the previous Conservative government.

Which perfectly encapsulates the problem.

For years, it suited the liberal Left to talk down Britain, framing us as a nation in cataclysmic decline. But now the boot is on the other foot.

So, yes, the Union Jack Catastrophists must be confronted.

But to do that, the gloom-mongering liberal Left must first acknowledge its own complicity  and hypocrisy.
It had an alien, disturbing appearance, though nobody bothered me when I snatched a quick picture of it as part of my own perpetual surveillance of modern Britain. A relaxed young woman in jeans was (as I recall) munching a sandwich in its open side door, and did not look either as if she had just been captured or as if she was part of a snatch squad, but who knows, these days?

Scotland Yard told me later that the choice of the station was random, that they were not looking for anyone in particular and had collared five suspects.

My colleague David Jones recently described in detail how these expeditions are conducted. If one of these cameras - soon to be deployed around the country - recognises you as a wanted person, a squad of officers, already mingling with nearby crowds, are immediately alerted through their phones and have probably picked you up in a matter of seconds.

Surely anyone hiding from authority would stride swiftly but calmly out of range and vanish into a side street as soon as they saw such a vehicle?

Or they could do what so many e-bike riders already do and wear a thick black mask across most of their face. Its hard to stop this in a country where, a few years ago, face masks were more or less compulsory. As with so much modern law enforcement, only the slow stragglers will be caught. The smart crooks will get away.

I have for many years been composing a thriller in my head (its pretty good, so far) in which I am in hiding from the politically correct police, and I have developed many secret tricks, ruses and techniques for staying free  which I will not share with you. Work out your own methods.

But surely plastering surveillance cameras with a big notice saying SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS will make it easier for everyone who is on the run to stay on the run.

'There are pretty much no laws at all about the use of this technology. And that is one of the many reasons why annoying, nit-picking people like me are worried about these cameras,' writes Hitchens

An officer told David Jones: People always ask me why we dont do this more covertly, but we cant. It would cause ructions. Weve got so many people criticising this. They think were up to all sorts of things. We operate in a way that causes minimum suspicion. Well, they do for now.

Actually, it is not true to say they cant be more covert. It is just that, for the moment, it is wiser to be out in the open. There are no laws which oblige police to do this. There are pretty much no laws at all about the use of this technology.

And that is one of the many reasons why annoying, nit-picking people like me are worried about these cameras.

Why cant we just shut up and accept the good results, you will ask? Hundreds of suspects found... crimes prevented by early intervention etc... If you have nothing to hide, then you have nothing to fear, and so on.

As Lindsey Chiswick, in charge of the Metropolitan Police Live Facial Recognition operations, argues, this is a powerful tool, which is helping us deliver justice for victims, including those who have been subjected to horrendous offences, such as rape and serious assault.

It is not only saving our officers valuable time but delivering faster, more accurate results to catch criminals  helping us be more efficient than ever before.

Note the use of the term justice for victims, all part of a major effort since the Blair years to claim that the police and justice system operate entirely for the benefit of the victims of crime rather than, as it once did, for justice in general. The difference is crucial.

First, victims do not get all that much out of the arrest and prosecution of those who hurt or robbed them. The police cannot un-burgle, un-mug, un-stab or un-murder you. The idea that prosecution and a prison sentence (always claimed to be far longer than it is and often absurdly short anyway) provides closure is obvious nonsense.

According to Hitchens, 'this equipment could of course be used for much for sinister purposes, if we ever find ourselves under a government that wants to arrest people for holding the wrong opinions'

Alas Vine & Hitchens: What's the big idea? Get the Mail's new politics podcast, hosted by columnists Sarah Vine and Peter Hitchens - wherever you listen to podcasts now.

What most people want is not to be hurt or robbed in the first place. And this is perhaps why the sight of this shiny new thing, in all its brazen electronic efficiency, sent a nasty chilly shiver scuttling up and down my spine, like an unexpected insect.

In most countries the police are just an arm of the state which does what the government wants. Not here, at least not officially.

Parliament refused to have a continental-style police force for many decades because they feared it would become - as it is fast becoming - an engine of repression, sticking its nose into what people think and say, refusing to enforce the laws which are popular while vigorously following its own agenda.

The existence of our police is, instead, a bargain between King and subject.

We are free to employ them and give them certain powers. That is why an English officer is not a civil servant who must do what he or she is told, but a sworn Constable, who can refuse an unlawful order and whose official duty is to serve law and people.

What that old-style police force did was to prevent crime happening in the first place, by being present, on active foot patrol, everywhere. It changed peoples behaviour by deterring crime and disorder.

But it also left us free to carry on our lawful business without being snooped on. And so it benefited everybody, not just the victims of the crimes it failed to prevent, as it does now.

Its intelligence came from the close contact old-fashioned constables had with the public, and from the close knowledge they obtained of the streets they patrolled. Now they have costly machines, brilliant as they may be, which can find people who have already committed crimes.

But they wont prevent new crimes by people who arent already in the electronic rogues gallery.

Worse, this equipment could of course be used for much for sinister purposes, if we ever find ourselves under a government that wants to arrest people for holding the wrong opinions. Whod have thought, 25 years ago, that British police would be arresting people for expressing views?

And 25 years from now? Theres already a campaign (you may have noticed it) for electronic identity cards.

What happens when a wicked state chooses to force its way into the Driving Licence register and obtain photographs of almost all of us? Then those facial recognition vans could be serving a wholly different purpose.

No, the surveillance I want to see is the sort that used to be done by a solitary copper, walking along his beat, sending out a signal for hundreds of yards around him that the innocent are safe, that we care what you do, not what you think, and that you can have freedom and order at the same time.
A travel influencer has opened up about her nightmare solo travelling experience in a popular tourist destination, after she found herself being 'bombarded with marriage proposals'.

Karolina Wachowicz, 35, from Krakow, Poland, felt like a 'neon sign' as she wandered the streets of Morocco, a popular tourist destination for Brits.

A 'blonde single woman', she felt her presence noticed on every corner, with men shouting compliments at her in French and Arabic, and following her down the street to ask for her name and relationship status - and even for her hand in marriage.

Although she initially took the attention as 'harmless', and 'maybe even flattering' Karolina's patience soon grew thin as the barrage of unwanted admiration continued, even when she was modestly dressed.

And the men were persistent. She said 'refusing politely' was rarely respected, and she would often find herself having to cross the street to avoid admirers, or trying to cast them off by saying she had a boyfriend.

So 'suffocated' was Karolina by the attention that she left the city early, instead choosing to visit rural towns and villages where she felt safer.

Karolina said she was initially motivated to visit Morocco after seeing glamorous pictures shared by fellow travel influencer Katarzyna Lawrynowic, who regularly posts glittering content about her time in Marrakesh.

'As a blonde, single European woman, you are not seen as just another traveller, you become the spectacle,' Karolina said.

Karolina Wachowicz, 35, (pictured) from Krakow, Poland, felt like a 'neon sign' as she wandered the streets of Morocco, a popular tourist destination for Brits

A 'blonde single woman', she felt her presence noticed on every corner, with men shouting compliments at her in French and Arabic and following her down the street to asking for her name and relationship status, and even for her hand in marriage

'Every glance, every comment, every offer of help is loaded with meaning you never asked for.

'Here, it's not about seeing Morocco as a tourist, it is a daily lesson in holding your boundaries, keeping your nerve, and realising you have to rewrite the rules for every block, market, or bus stop.

'In Marrakesh, the onslaught is sharp and constant. Men make comments out loud, sometimes in French, sometimes in Arabic, as you walk by.

'At first, you think the compliments are harmless, maybe even flattering, but they don't let up, and you realise their persistence is never just about curiosity.

'Refusing politely is rarely respected; instead, men often push for your name, your plans, your relationship status.

'Sometimes, a casual "I have a boyfriend" is the only answer that truly stops them.

'Yet the moment you let your guard down, or even just smile out of nervousness, it can be read as a signal to try harder.

'In cafes and markets, you quickly learn to focus your gaze, answer monosyllabically, and keep walking.

Although she initially found the attention to be 'harmless', and 'maybe even flattering', her patience soon grew thin as the barrage of unwanted admiration continued - even when she was modestly dressed

So 'suffocated' was Karolina by the attention, that she left the city early, instead choosing to visit rural towns and villages where she felt safer

Karolina said the attention became even more intense when she left the city and travelled to small towns and rural villages

Karolina said she was initially motivated to visit Morocco after seeing glamorous pictures shared by fellow travel influencer, Katarzyna Lawrynowic, who regularly posts glittering content about her time in Marrakesh

She said: 'As a blonde, single European woman, you are not seen as just another traveller, you become the spectacle'

'Men bombarded me with questions and compliments, even sudden proposals!'

Karolina said the attention became even more intense when she left the city and travelled to small towns and rural villages.

'The attention is sometimes suffocating.

'Simple acts, like sitting in a cafe or shopping for groceries, become events.

'I couldn't cross the street without at least one person asking for a photo or money. Marriage proposals were, of course, also common.

'Here, any visible skin or uncovered hair is read as a statement, no matter how modestly you think you are dressed.

'Suddenly, you realise that even a light summer dress and exposed shoulders can make you the focal point for requests, proposals, or relentless questions.'

'Their eyes could slice through me, especially if I wore something slightly less modest than their standard.

Despite the frequent attention of local men, Karolina said the opposite was true of the women

Despite the challenges, Karolina said it's possible to enjoy time in Morocco 'if you understand just how different the social codes are'

'The key to survival is a blend of thick skin, improvisation, humour, patience, and cultural sensitivity,' Karolina said

'A skirt above the ankle or uncovered arms was enough for some to glare or shake their heads in disapproval.

'On one occasion, a woman even raised her voice and scolded me in Arabic.

'I didn't understand her words, but the tone said it all.'

Despite the challenges, Karolina said it's possible to enjoy time in Morocco 'if you understand just how different the social codes are'.

She added: 'Morocco can challenge and exhaust you, but it will also teach you resilience, flexibility, and the importance of cross-cultural kindness, if you're willing to look beneath the sometimes exasperating surface.

'The key to survival is a blend of thick skin, improvisation, humour, patience, and cultural sensitivity.'

Despite the frequent attention of local men, Karolina said the opposite was true of the women.

'Instead of sisterhood, I was met with openly cold, critical stares,' she said.
Meghan Markle, 44, sent Kris Jenner, 69, bottle of rose wine from As Ever range

Meghan Markle showed her link to influencer royalty as she featured momager Kris Jenner on her Instagram Story on Tuesday.

The Kardashian matriarch, 69, shared a photo on Instagram Stories of a gift the Duchess, 44, had sent - bottles of her 2024 Napa Valley Rose wine from her As Ever range.

In addition to sharing a photo of the wine on her social media, mother-of-six Kris tagged both Meghan's Instagram account as well as As Ever's, saying, 'thank you'.

The post comes after mother-of-two Meghan posted a glitzy new video promoting the new tipple from her lifestyle brand, in which she carried a tray of popsicles made from the wine.

According to the company's site, it is 'delicately balanced, with soft notes of stone fruit, a gentle minerality, and a lasting finish' as well as being 'reminiscent of the finest Provencal styles, this thoughtfully crafted blend is perfect for summers end'.

It's not the first time the wife of Prince Harry, 40, has mingled with the Hollywood family following her business launch, as the famous family's matriarch Kris Jenner was also sent some of the brand's jam.

And Meghan sent Khloe Kardashian, 41, a deluxe hamper from As Ever, which included bottles of wine, preserves and an array of vegetables.

However, when Khloe shared snaps from sister Kylie Jenner's 28th birthday party over the weekend, including a picture of the hamper, she seemingly forgot to tag Meghan in the post.

Kris Jenner (pictured with Meghan's mother Doria Ragland and Kim Kardashian in Los Angeles in August 2023) took to her Instagram Stories to thank Meghan for sending her wine from the As Ever range

That didn't stop the former senior royal from delightedly reposting the snap, writing 'Hey hey, all my girls with a K' on the post, but fans called out the famed family's failure to acknowledge Meghan.

One wrote: 'When you send something over cuz you have to miss the party, except Meghan was never invited to the party.

Another quipped: 'The pr team did everything on both sides. These ladies don't do s**t.'

Others wrote: 'What were the Kardashians going to do with this catastrophe?

'My girls with a K? Is she 9? The Kardashians would probably hate it.

'And yet, Khloe doesnt even follow meghans personal or as ever Instagram accounts. But Khloe does follow Martha Stewart.

'Kardashian followers wont give that basket a second thought - it looks like a gift from a grandma - MM doesnt even know who her own customer is, or what they are interested in - I doubt she knows what Khloes followers are interested in either.

'In my opinion, its a paid advertising. Nothing is an accident with Kardasians. Khloe was within Markles budget. Its quite telling Khloe doesnt follow Markle or As ever.

Kris Jenner shared a snap of the wine Meghan sent her - while remembering to tag the Duchess and her brand As Ever

The former senior royal (pictured in a scene from With Love, Meghan) shared the Kardashian matriarch's post on the As Ever Instagram account

'I just watched a video where Kris said they post no products unless they are getting paid for it. The pay is over six figures per post. So for this is happen on a birthday Meg must have paid a fortune.'

Meghan launched her lifestyle brand As Ever earlier this year, releasing the first products in April.

These included a range of teas, a raspberry spread, and a limited-edition wildflower honey with honeycomb, amongst other things.

Many items sold out quickly, with Meghan's fans snapping up the different foods and drink available.

She followed the initial launch with two new items - an apricot spread and another honey.

Then in July, she expanded into the world of alcohol when she dropped her own wine - the 2023 Napa Valley rose.

Each release has been met with fierce excitement from her fans, and every product has sold out pretty quickly.

Khloe Kardashian, 41, shared snaps from sister Kylie Jenner's 28th birthday party over the weekend, which included a deluxe hamper from the former working Royal's luxury brand

The hamper included bottles of wine, preserves and an array of vegetables - with Kardashian seemingly forgetting to tag Meghan in the post

One wrote: 'When you send something over cuz you have to miss the party, except Meghan was never invited to the party'

On August 4, her birthday, Meghan launched her latest product - another rose wine.

Ahead of the launch, the company announce that following the buzz surrounding its 2023 Napa Valley rose, it would be launching another wine.

The new tipple had a slight tweak - it is called the 2024 Napa Valley rose.

However, according to the brand, the new wine tastes very similar s As Ever's earlier vintage.

'It marries the same harmony of notes from our first blend and creates an elegant medley of delicate yet memorable flavor,' reads a press release.

'You'll want to clink glasses with friends as the sun sets, toasting to a summer of joy.

'Barefoot or in sandals, dressed up or dressed down, this rose may become your favorite accessory for alfresco lunches and dinners at dusk.'

In the release, As Ever listed some of the positive feedback customers had given the company over its first rose, which included comments like, '10 out of 10,' 'perfect,' and 'elevated flavor'.

Meghan described her new bottles as 'goodness in a glass' - as she launched the new line on her birthday on August 4

The company revealed earlier this month that following the buzz surrounding the 2023 Napa Valley rose, it would be launching another wine, called the 2024 Napa Valley rose

'This affirmed all of the love, time and effort our team, and our founder, poured into curating this blend to evoke the sun drenched spirit of Napa Valley, and the breathtaking tenor of the California Coast,' As Ever added.

'Thank you for filling our cup. Now it's time for us to fill your glass! We are pleased to share that our 2024 Napa Valley rose will be available for purchase next week.'

The brand also posted to Instagram with a series of images showing the new wine resting in beach sand.

It was uploaded alongside a caption that read: 'Oh, how we love seeing the world through rose colored glasses. Rose colored glasses? Perhaps even better.

'Our new vintage of As Ever's beloved rose is available next week.

'Stay tuned for more details and timing.'

As Ever's first wine went on sale on July 1 and sold out within the hour.

Customers were able to purchase three bottles for $90, six bottles for $159, and 12 bottles for $300.
A mother who faced fierce criticism after using laser treatment on a large birthmark on her baby's face has revealed what he looks like three years after the treatment.

Brooke Atkins, 36, from the Gold Coast, Queensland, gave birth to her second child, Kingsley, in 2022, and immediately noticed he'd been born with a large Port Wine Stain (PWS) birthmark covering half of his face.

Port-wine stain birthmarks are usually harmless, but if on the face - particularly over the eye - they can be linked to glaucoma and Sturge Weber Syndrome, and it turned out that Kingsley had both.

Six months after his arrival in 2022, the stay-at-home mother and her partner Kewene Wallace, 30, decided to laser the mark.

Sharing Kingsley's journey on social media, Brooke began to face heavy backlash, with cruel online trolls branding her a 'monster' for opting to have the controversial laser treatment.

Now, two years on from when he had the laser treatment, Brooke has shared videos of what the youngster looks like aged three.

In social media videos, the mark on the three-year-old's face appears to have reduced drastically, with only a pale pinkish undertone showing up beneath the skin on one side of his face.

When Brooke first got Kingsley the treatment, many online were outraged.

Brooke Atkins, 36, from the Gold Coast , Queensland , gave birth to her second child, Kingsley, in 2022, and immediately noticed he'd been born with a large Port Wine Stain (PWS) birthmark covering half of his face. Kingsley pictured at the time of his birth

A mother who faced fierce criticism after using laser treatment on a large birthmark on her baby's face has revealed what he looks like three years later (pictured)

But as she pointed out in an interview with DailyMail on 2023, Port Wine Stains typically get worse and darken over time, and Kingsley's birthmark could have become considerably more noticeable as he was growing up.

'They can develop a "cobblestone" appearance, with raised bumps, ridges, and the risk of vascular blebs, where they dangerously bleed,' Brooke said at the time.

'Once a port wine stain gets to this stage, it is often very difficult to treat and laser barely has any affect, as the skin is already far too damaged.'

She then decided to use a laser treatment on Kingsley's mark.

'The only way to treat a Port Wine Stain is through laser treatments, and the most effective laser for it is called the Pulsed Dye Laser.

'When he was first born, we were referred to the Queensland Children's Hospital dermatology and vascular department, where they organised the first treatment and explained in further detail why laser would be important.

'The purpose of the laser treatments is not to 'remove' the birthmark but instead keep the skin healthy, to prevent any further damage to the area.'

Those viewing Kingsley's journey online didn't take kindly to the decision, with one saying: 'That birthmark is barely visible, what you're doing to him is horrible, it's more for you than him.'

Port-wine stain birthmarks are usually harmless, but if on the face - particularly over the eye - they can be linked to glaucoma and Sturge Weber Syndrome - and as it turned out, Kingsley had both. Kingsley pictured in June this year

Now, two years on from when he had the laser treatment, Brooke has shared videos of what the youngster looks like aged three. Pictured with his older sister, Amarni

Others called her brainwashed and accused her of 'making him insecure the second he gets out the womb'.

However, she has received positive comments from other parents, who have continued to support her journey navigating her son's challenges.

Of the reception she has received online, Brooke said: 'Honestly, when I first started reading the negative comments, I sat there for a good half hour and cried to myself.

'I had a whole heap of mum guilt, and it made me question my decision, even though I knew I was doing the right thing, the cruel words still played in my head.

'I just wish these people had known about the health issues connected to these types of birthmarks before writing these things, that this wasn't for cosmetic reasons, and that as parents, this was the hardest decision we have had to make.

She said trolls' comments had left her feeling like a bad mother, despite very few of the viewers having a full understanding of her son's condition.

Continuing to receive backlash online, Brooke has defended the decision. 'I think having anything out there online will attract criticism, unfortunately,' she said.

Though the negativity no longer upsets her, she wishes that more people were educated on Port Wine Stain birthmarks and didn't 'jump to these conclusions'.

'I tell them that this will give him the best chance at not adding to his long list of medical issues he already has.

Mother Brooke (pictured) was fiercely criticised after using the treatment on Kingsley (pictured) - but she says his health has improved as a result

The decision to go ahead with laser treatment last year was a good one, according to mother Brook (pictured with Kingsley), who says her son is 'doing great'

What is a port wine stain birthmark? A port wine stain is a birthmark caused by the overdevelopment of blood vessels underneath the skin. The change in the blood vessels is caused by a genetic mutation which occurs before a child is born, and will remain for the rest of a person's life  though the severity of them differs between people. Port wine stains begin as a flat red or purple mark and, over time, can become more raised, bulkier and darker in colour. They can occur anywhere on the body but 65 per cent of them appear on a person's head or neck. Around three in every 1,000 babies has a port wine stain and they are more common in girls than in boys, though the reason for this is not known. Treatment usually involves laser treatment to remove some of the dark colour from the mark, or camouflaging the discolouring using a special type of make-up. Advertisement

'And if they respond rudely to that, I try my best not to tell them what I really think but sometimes it's hard.'

Sturge Weber Syndrome can cause seizures, which Kingsley suffers from on a regular basis, along with other disabilities. His other condition, glaucoma, can also cause blindness.

Over the course of his life, Kingsley has undergone a plethora of treatments, including having three eye surgeries for his glaucoma.

He continues to suffer from health issues as a result of his disabilities, including having had more than 100 seizures over the course of his life.

In a video posted to TikTok in June, Brooke revealed that Kingsley had had multiple seizures that week, only a month after having his last.

'Our son ended up having multiple seizures last week, only a month after his last,' she said.

'As a mother, it broke my heart. We have had over a month of sickness since his last seizure, and we honestly just need a break. A break from it all. A break for his little body to recover fully. We are still sick, but we are home and he is happy.

'This is the reality of so many Sturge-Weber families dealing with Epilepsy.'

The three-year-old continues to be plagued by seizures, and the family have had to spend multiple overnight stays in hospitals across the country.

In July however, things seemed to be looking up, with Brooke telling her followers that Kingsley had been 'doing really good' after finally recovering from 'a few sicknesses'.
A mother has shared her shock after receiving a $100,000 bill for a 15-minute ride to the ER for her six-month-old baby.

In 2022, Jessica Farwell's son Brody was severely burned after a rice cooker fell off the kitchen counter, so she rushed him to the hospital.

What she wasn't aware of was that long after her son had healed, she'd still be suffering years of bureaucratic pain whilst dealing with her insurance company.

When Brody was first injured, the mom recalled her baby 'screaming' in pain with doctors initially giving him fentanyl through his nose to try and ease it.

'His skin, it just instantly bubbled up,' the Northern Californian mom recalled in a recent interview with ABC7. 'I was just like, is his face going to start bubbling?'

'Seeing your baby in so much pain was just like the worst feeling as a mom,' she admitted.

However, the hospital lacked a burn unit so Brody needed to be transferred to a children's hospital in Sacramento, which is 58 miles south of Antioch, where they live.

Jessica was then told they had no ambulances available to transport Brody to a hospital that was equipped to handle his injury.

'There wasn't going to be an ambulance for seven hours,' she explained.

In 2022, Jessica Farwell's son Brody was severely burned after a rice cooker fell off the kitchen counter, so she rushed him to the hospital. Jessica is pictured during a recent interview

At the hospital, Jessica was told Brody needed to be transferred to a different children's hospital in Sacramento but no ambulances were available

Wanting to get her son help as soon as possible, she asked if she could make the one-hour and 20-minute drive with Brody herself, and was told no.

"They said, "No, sorry, you can't - I can't let you leave with him. I've already called the helicopter." [They] basically told me there was nothing I could do,' Jessica recalled.

As getting an ambulance wasn't an option, the only way to get to Sacramento was a 15-minute helicopter ride that would cost nearly $90,000.

However, Jessica was reassured that she would not receive the bill since the hospital requested the helicopter and she had insurance.

'I was just absolutely terrified to fly, I'm breaking down. He's screaming. It was just awful,' the scared mom recalled.

The costs weren't over once they got to the hospital with the mom being told an ambulance was required to get to the hospital entrance from the heliport, which was only 0.3 miles away.

'You can see the hospital. You literally can walk across the street to the hospital quicker than that ambulance, and they charged me [another] $10,200,' Jessica said, outraged.

The mom explained that the only way to get to Sacramento was a 15-minute helicopter ride that would cost close to $90,000. Her son is seen after being treated

Once they got to the hospital, Brody was treated for his burns and discharged the next day.

For Jessica, the nightmare wasn't over with the mom receiving a bill for $100,032 months after Brody had been discharged.

'I couldn't believe my eyes,' she said. 'You look at the bills, and it's absolutely enraging. We got hit for a $600 waiting fee; there's a fee for it being a nighttime service. There's just every single fee you can think of.'

Despite being told the transport to the hospital wouldn't be a problem because she has insurance, Jessica later found out that her insurance would only cover less than half of the cost of the helicopter, and a fraction of the ambulance.

This left her having to pay $57,929.80 for the helicopter and another $7,327 for the ambulance.

'I've called the hospital, ambulance company, my insurance numerous times,' she said.

'It's been three years, and then they wouldn't listen to me or talk to me. They just kept giving me the runaround.'

Jessica was reassured that she would not receive the bill since the hospital requested the helicopter and she had insurance - but she was hit with a bill of $57,929.80

Jessica wasn't aware that after her son had healed, she'd still be suffering years bureaucratic pain whilst dealing with her insurance company

After years of trying to get the bill waived, Jessica reached out to investigative reporters at ABC 7's On Your Side in San Francisco.

With the help of the reporters, she was able to get both bills waived and said the insurance company called her back assuring her she'd never be billed again.

'They almost sounded apologetic,' Jessica said, adding that she was in disbelief and immediately told her husband.

'It's a miracle!' she said enthusiastically.

California passed the law AB 716 in January 2024, which protects people from receiving surprise bills for ground ambulance services.

However, as Brody's accident happened before the law was passed, the ambulance bill was not waived.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Pro Transport-1, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Shriners Children's Hospital for comment.
A Disney World guest has revealed the surprising secret behind why you rarely see mosquitoes at the Orlando, Florida, theme park.

In a now-viral TikTok video, posted by the user @disney_dad1, the unnamed guest detailed the alleged clever tricks that Disney uses to keep bugs at bay, despite the park being built on swampy land.

'You're in central Florida ... swamps, humidity, it should be a mosquito paradise,' the TikToker explained.

'But somehow, there's nothing buzzing in your ears. So here's the secret ... and it's honestly kind of genius.

'When Walt was designing Disney World, he hired an actual entomologist... a bug expert.

'His job? Figure out how to keep mosquitoes away without ruining the experience for guests, and it worked.'

The TikToker then explained the three key strategies that Disney allegedly uses to ensure guests are never getting bit up at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

'First, Disney doesn't let water sit still. No standing puddles. Everything drains fast. Fountains flow constantly. Even decorative moats have circulation,' they shared.

A Disney World guest has revealed the surprising secret behind why you rarely see mosquitoes at the Florida theme park (stock image)

'No still water means no mosquito breeding grounds.'

Secondly, the narrator claimed that the staff lightly sprays a garlic-based repellent around the parks.

'You don't smell it, but mosquitoes hate it,' he explained.

'It's non-toxic, safe for guests, but enough to keep bugs away.'

Lastly, to help keep the park mosquito-free, the TikToker said that Disney relies on natural predators like dragonflies, birds, and even bats that come out at night.

'Disney basically created a little ecosystem where mosquitoes lose every time. And the wildest part? It's all designed to be invisible,' he revealed.

'Just like the trash tunnels and the background music, the bug control blends into the magic.'

On its website, Disney shares very little about how it keeps mosquitos at bay, simply writing in its FAQ section, 'We have an extensive mosquito prevention and monitoring program across property.'

In a now-viral TikTok video, posted by user @disney_dad1, they explained the clever tricks Disney uses to keep bugs at bay, despite the park being built on swampy land (stock image)

The Daily Mail has reached out to Disney for comment.

People in the comment section of the video were shocked to learn about Disney's imaginative solutions.

'That was more interesting than I thought,' one person wrote.

'That is why it's the greatest place on earth,' another shared.

A different parkgoer observed: 'Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever seen all that many insects of any kind there.'

'Disney World is genius at everything. Thats what separates them from all the others. Their attention to detail is incredible!' someone else said.

'Disney is AMAZING,' one person simply stated.

However, one Disney fan said the solutions didn't work on them.

'Ive been bitten by mosquitoes at WDW almost every time I go,' they revealed.
In her new memoir, Frankly, Nicola Sturgeon laughs off the baseless online rumours that she conducted some kind of lesbian affair with Frances ex-ambassador to the UK, Catherine Colonna.

Nevertheless, the ex-First Ministers comments on her sexuality elsewhere in her book have aroused considerable interest.

Sturgeon revealed that she has never considered sexuality, my own included, to be binary  and refused to rule out a future relationship with a woman.

Asked in a recent ITV interview what she had meant about her sexuality not being binary, the 55-year-old replied: Its just my view of the world and life and the way people are. If youre about to ask me if I am making some big revelation? No. Am I putting labels on myself? No.

Asked by ITVs Julie Etchingham if she might be seen in a relationship with a woman in the future, Sturgeon replied she had just come out of a marriage and was not rushing into a relationship with anyone. She was, she insisted, enjoying being her own person.

These revelations prompted some observers to note that several of Sturgeons closest friends happen to be gay women  some of whom received a special mention in the acknowledgements to her book.

There is, of course, no suggestion that Sturgeon has had any kind of intimate relationship with any of her female friends. Indeed, since resigning abruptly from politics in March 2023, she has split from her husband of 15 years, Peter Murrell, and seems keen to embrace a newly single life  with the proud Scottish nationalist even saying this week that she might be spending more time in the English capital, and yesterday even sporting her first tattoo.

Here, the Daily Mail looks at some of the women helping Sturgeon to embrace her new-found freedom.

Nicola Sturgeon pictured with Catherine Colonna in February

Val McDermid, author, 70

A staunch ally of the ex-First Minister for a decade, legendary crime writer McDermid was the first to offer a shoulder to cry on when Sturgeons marriage imploded. Their friendship blossomed some years ago when the author, who has published more than 40 crime novels, was interviewed by Sturgeon at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. McDermid invited the bibliophile politician and her then-husband to dinner to break the ice, she said, and the evening went so well the guests stayed until after midnight.

In January, the Mail revealed that following the breakdown of her marriage, Sturgeon had been spending time at a luxury 320,000 flat owned by McDermid and her wife, Jo Sharp, in Edinburghs upmarket New Town. Over the years, Sturgeon has also joined McDermid on the red carpet at several gay events, including the DIVA Awards in April in London, at which Sturgeon was pictured without her wedding ring.

Earlier this month, McDermid was forced to deny speculation that she was assisting Sturgeon write her memoir, insisting: I did not help with it. She did it herself, truly. It later transpired health problems had delayed publication of her latest novel.

Jo Sharp, academic, 55

Loyal wife of McDermid, Sharp is Geographer Royal for Scotland and a professor at St Andrews University; the couple married in 2016. Although preferring to remain largely out of the limelight at their other home in Fife, Sharp occasionally accompanies McDermid to book events and has been seen with her on Pride marches. Sharp is one of those singled out for special mention in the acknowledgements of Frankly and was also pictured at the glitzy DIVA Awards in London last year.

Hannah Bardell, former MP, 42

Former SNP MP Hannah Bardell was also seen on the red carpet at last years DIVA Awards in London along with Sturgeon, McDermid and Sharp. While McDermid and Sharp opted for dark evening wear, Bardell and Sturgeon both pushed the sartorial stakes, with Sturgeon sporting a pink suit and Bardell wearing a matching fuchsia jacket over her black sequinned cocktail dress. The previous year, Sturgeon and Bardell were also guests at the 2023 Rainbow Honours ceremony at the Natural History Museum in London, where Sturgeon was presented with the Celebrity Ally of the Year Award at a star-studded event attended by television presenters Gok Wan and Anna Richardson. When Bardell married her partner, Lucienne Kennedy, in May last year, Sturgeon posted her congratulations along with four heart emojis.

Kezia Dugdale, former politician, 43

Mortal enemies at First Ministers Questions when Dugdale was Scottish Labour leader, Sturgeon has formed an unlikely cross-party friendship since the younger woman left her front-bench role. Dugdale, who is now Associate Director of the Centre for Public Policy at the University of Glasgow, has also worked as a newspaper columnist and appeared as a contestant on ITV reality show Im a Celebrity in 2017. Around that time she had come out as gay and would later start dating SNP MSP, Jenny Gilruth. Both were offered particular thanks by Sturgeon during the writing of her book, although it is not clear what advice they may have offered.

Jenny Gilruth, Scottish minister, 41

Never a member of Sturgeons Cabinet, Jenny Gilruth served as a junior Transport Minister before stepping up to Education Secretary under Surgeons successor, Humza Yousaf. It never seemed in office as if the pair were particularly close, either personally or politically, but it is clear that her friendship since Sturgeons fall from grace has been greatly valued by her former boss.

Steph McGovern, journalist and presenter, 43

The proudly gay TV presenter appeared to hit it off with the once-buttoned up Sturgeon when they met at the DIVA Awards in London last year, enjoying a warm embrace as the evening unwound, according to witnesses. Perhaps Sturgeon can look forward to broadening her circle of friends if she acts on her pledge to move to London, where McGovern spends a lot of time.
The Royal Family has shared a series of fun facts about Princess Anne ahead of her 75th birthday.

The Princess Royal will celebrate her birthday on Friday, and to mark the occasion, her family has shared fun insights about her that the UK public might not have known previously.

'Did you know? The Princess Royal edition,' the Instagram caption read, adding, 'Swipe across for fun facts about Her Royal Highness as we mark her 75th Birthday this week - more on royal.uk!'

The first fact in the post revealed details of her birth, explaining, 'Her Royal Highness was born Princess Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise at Clarence House on 15 August 1950, VJ Day, at 11:50 am.'

The fact was accompanied by a black-and-white photograph of the late Queen Elizabeth holding Princess Anne as a newborn.

The second fact read, 'Princess Anne joined the 1st Buckingham Palace Company of Brownies and Guides in 1959.

'This group had first been created in 1937 for her mother, then Princess Elizabeth, and was reinstalled for Princess Anne.'

The following fact revealed insight into Anne's charitable pursuits, explaining that she supports over 399 charities, organisations, and military regiments in the UK and beyond.

The Royal Family has released some fun facts about Princess Anne (seen in May) ahead of her 75th birthday

The post also explained Anne's sporting talents, writing, 'Princess Anne was the first member of the British Royal Family to compete in an Olympic Games, when she participated as a member of the British Equestrian team at the 1976 Montreal Games.'

Elsewhere in the post, Anne was seen carrying out charity work, with the fact, 'The Princess Royal was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 by President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia.

'She was nominated for her work as President of Save the Children across two decades.'

The next fact read, 'In 1994, The Queen appointed The Princess Royal to the Order of the Garter. However, The Princess Royal requested to be installed as Royal Knight of the Order and not a lady.'

The impressive list didn't stop there, with the post also adding that Anne was the first member of the Royal Family to appear as a contestant on a television quiz show when she competed on the BBC panel game, A Question of Sport.

Anne's diligent nature was also mentioned in the fact list, explaining that she's completed a total of 562 overseas visits and has visited every continent, making it unsurprising that she's often dubbed the hardest working in her family.

The following fact said, 'Her Royal Highness has been Patron of the Scottish Rugby Union since June 1986, regularly attending matches and visiting team training sessions.'

In another image, Anne was seen stepping out of a motor alongside the text, 'The Princess Royal is the first member of the Royal Family to have a HGV license. Her Royal Highness has also driven a double-decker London bus and a police car.'

The Princess Royal will mark her birthday on Friday (seen with Sir Timothy Laurence in a portrait released ahead of her birthday)

The late Queen Elizabeth held a young Princess Anne in her arms in one photograph shared on Instagram

The Royal Family shared a selection of facts about Anne, including that she was the first member of the family to appear on a quiz show (pictured)

'Her Royal Highness is Colonel-in-Chief of more than 20 British and Commonwealth regiments,' the next fact read.

The post concluded with an image of Anne in her famous shades, writing, 'The Princess Royal is often seen sporting Team GB sunglasses, including at high-profile events such as the London 2012 Olympics and Royal Ascot in 2021.

It comes after Princess Anne met with Irish President Michael D Higgins in the Irish capital, as she travelled to Dublin to a mark milestone event at 150th Dublin Horse Show.

The Princess Royal, 74, began the day with a formal welcome at Aras an Uachtarain, where she was received by President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina in what is expected to be one of his final engagements with a senior royal, as he nears the end of his second and final term in office.

The meeting marked a symbolic moment in UK-Ireland relations, paying tribute to President Higgins' long-standing service to Irish public life and the enduring ties between the two nations.

Princess Anne wore a stylish green blazer paired with an emerald skirt, a subtle nod to Ireland, the Emerald Isle.

She completed her sophisticated look with a black leather handbag, heels and matching gloves for the occasion.

Later in the day, all eyes turned to the Royal Dublin Society (RDS), where Princess Anne attended the official opening of the 150th Dublin Horse Show - a major highlight on the Irish social and sporting calendar.

Anne was seen stepping out of a vehicle in the slide explaining that she's the first member of her family to have a HGV licence

Anne donned her trademark sunglasses in the final image, which explained how she has sported the shades to many big events

A passionate equestrian herself, Princess Anne toured a special exhibition celebrating the show's rich history and meet representatives from Festina Lente, a Bray-based charity specialising in equine-assisted therapy, as well as the Riding for the Disabled Association Ireland.

Her Royal Highness, who competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games in the equestrian three-day event, also presented rosettes to the winners of the hotly contested Small Hunters (Class 20) competition.

British Ambassador to Ireland, Paul Johnston, praised the visit, saying: 'The Princess Royal's visit underscores the deep and enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the significance of the 150th holding of the RDS Dublin Horse Show.

'Her Royal Highness has visited Ireland on many occasions, including as patron of the Scottish Rugby Union during Six Nations games here.

'Her visit this week reflects her lifelong interest in equestrianism and charitable work.'

The Princess Royal's appearance in Dublin comes as part of a busy summer of royal engagements, and once again highlights her unwavering dedication to public service.

Anne previously visited the Aras in February 2004 during engagements, where she was greeted by then-Irish president Mary McAleese.

The princess was accompanied by the British ambassador to Ireland at the time, Stewart Eldon.

Members of the royal family have visited the president's residence on several occasions, including the historic trip by Queen Elizabeth II in May 2011.

She was the first monarch to visit the Republic, where she signed a guest book at the Aras and planted an English oak tree at the Peace Bell.

Her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, made solo visits to Aras an Uachtarain in November 1998 and again in April 2006.

During their three-day visit to the Republic in 2020, the Prince and Princess of Wales  then titled the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge  had a tea party with Mr Higgins and his wife at the Aras and met one of the president's dogs, Brod.
One of Sydney's favourite vegan eateries will shut down at the end of the month, and loyal customers say the loss will leave a huge hole in their weekends.

Green Sprouts Chinese Vegan Restaurant on Military Road in Neutral Bay revealed the news in a heartfelt post to Instagram and Facebook, confirming its final service will be on August 31.

'After nearly five incredible years, Green Sprouts Vegan Chinese Restaurant will be closing its doors for good on August 31st,' the statement read.

'Since opening in October 2020, we've had the honour of welcoming thousands of vegan and non-vegan diners from all over Sydney, and we're grateful to have been voted one of the best vegan restaurants multiple times.

'This journey wouldn't have been possible without your love and support. While it's heartbreaking to say goodbye, we are truly grateful for every moment shared.

'Thank you for being part of our story - and come to say goodbye in the next couple of weeks.'

The Military Road venue quickly became a cult favourite for its authentic Hong Kong-style yum cha, complete with dim sum carts wheeled to diners' tables and a 100 per cent plant-based menu that won over both vegans and meat-eaters.

As news of the closure spread, loyal customers filled the comments with tributes.

Green Sprouts Chinese Vegan Restaurant on Military Road in Neutral Bay revealed the news in a heartfelt post to Instagram and Facebook , confirming its final service will be on August 31

One said they were 'devastated' and admitted they had 'no idea where to go for yum cha now.'

Another described it as 'the saddest news' and vowed to visit before the month's end to say goodbye.

Others revealed they travelled from interstate just to eat there, with one Newcastle customer admitting they made a 'special trip' every time they came to Sydney.

Many urged the owners to keep them updated if they start anything similar elsewhere.

Some diners became emotional recalling their favourite dishes, from the famed turnip cakes to the mango custard buns, black sesame balls, bean curd rolls, and vegan duck pancakes.

One regular said the restaurant had been their 'go-to for every birthday and special occasion' and praised the food as 'better than the real thing.'

Another wrote, 'I hope this is not the end of your vegan restaurant dreams - your food is incredible.'

The shock announcement comes amid a wave of high-profile Sydney restaurant closures.

The Military Road venue quickly became a cult favourite for its authentic Hong Kong-style yum cha, complete with dim sum carts wheeled to diners' tables and a 100 per cent plant-based menu that won over both vegans and meat-eaters

In June, two of Sydney's best-known waterfront venues - Sake and El Camino Cantina at Manly Wharf - shut down after 15 years on the lease, following what hospitality group Hunter St. Hospitality described as a 'commercial decision.'

In mid-July, award-winning Sri Lankan favourite Lankan Filling Station in Darlinghurst revealed it will soon serve its final hoppers after seven years, with chef-owner O Tama Carey calling it 'the end of an era.'

For Green Sprouts fans, however, the countdown is on - with just over two weeks left to savour one last meal before the doors close for good.

Many are already planning farewell visits, while others admit they still can't quite believe the city's best-known vegan yum cha will soon be gone.
Health chiefs have issued a warning after 16 people who took 'defective' vitamin D supplements were left hospitalised.

The incident took place in the Balearic Islands, which are located off the eastern coast of mainland Spain.

The individuals were rushed to hospital where they were diagnosed with hypervitaminosis D, a condition caused by excessive intake of the vitamin.

It has been shown to cause a build up of calcium which can lead to serious health issues including kidney damage and loss of bone density.

Local officials have revealed the first identified patients experienced abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

But other symptoms can include constipation, dehydration, fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, increased thirst and passing large amounts of urine.

They launched an investigation after a medical examination revealed some patients had acute kidney failure, which can be life threatening.

The authorities confirmed the previously fit-and-healthy individuals had consumed 'defective' multivitamins purchased online without medical advice.

Officials have issued an alert after 16 people fell ill after taking 'defective' vitamin D tablets

Now they have warned that this is a risk of not getting them through an official doctor, who can do a blood test to check you actually have a deficiency.

The Spanish Ministry of Health said: 'Supplements should only be prescribed when clinically justified. Unsupervised use, particularly when exceeding recommended doses may lead to adverse effects and is not recommended without specific medical indication.'

While the 'defective' batch was initially confined to the Balearic Islands, they may have been distributed elsewhere, added the Spanish Agency for Food and Nutrition.

They also warned high doses can be dangerous after multiple cases of overdose in adults and children were reported through the country's health record system.

In the UK, during the spring and summer months the NHS says the majority of people should be able to get all the vitamin D they need through sunlight.

However, in the autumn and winter months, people may need to take vitamins to ensure they get the recommended 10 micrograms (mcg) a day.

This is how much adults and children above the age of one need, but babies up to the age of one year only need 8.5 to 10 mcg per day.

The NHS advice is that you should never take more than 100 mcg of any one vitamin a day, and children between one and ten should have no more than 50 mcg.

Babies under 12 months old should never have more than 25 mcg of the vitamin per day.

It follows a warning earlier this month from a nutrition expert that taking too many supplements can do more harm than good.

A previous survey of over 2,000 Britons by Which? found three quarters take supplements, and about one in five respondents take four or more each day.

But, writing for the product testing website, Dr Rachel Woods, who has a PhD in nutrition, said overloading on supplements can cause nausea and diarrhoea, or in more extreme cases, weakened bones and birth defects.

And, when taken in excess, they have been linked to liver, heart, and kidney damagewhich can prove fatal.

'Many people take supplements for years without knowing whether they need them or how much is too much,' she wrote.

Many people do not realise, she explained, that fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K aren't flushed out of the body, which can lead to a build-up of harmful levels.

'Too much vitamin D, for example, can lead to a build-up of calcium, which may damage the kidneys and heart, as well as weakening bones,' she said.
A new study has revealed that using an electric fan in hot temperatures could increase the risk of suffering a deadly heart attack.

Researchers from the University of Sydney recruited 20 participants to test how fans affect body temperature, heart rate, sweating and comfort when used in a hot and humid environment.

The study participants were asked to complete four separate three-hour trials in a climate chamber set to 39.2C and 49 per cent humidity.

For two of the sessions they were well hydrated, and had drank the recommended amount of fluids for 24 hours before the trial, and could also drink during the trial.

For the other two, they were required to be dehydrated, avoiding fluids and foods with a high water content in the 24 hours before the trial and were forbidden from drinking during the trial.

In each hydration state, the participants were tested with and without a fan.

The study, which was outlined in a research letter published by journal Emergency Medicine, aimed to see whether hydration status changes the effect of fan use in hot, humid conditionsespecially since it's known that fans can sometimes worsen heat stress.

A series of temperatures were measured, including their heart rate, rectal temperature, whole body sweat rate, thermal discomfort, and thirst level.

A new study has warned of the dangers of fans in hot temperatures when you are dehydrated

The data revealed that fan use while dehydrated can worsen heart strain, which can eventually lead to heart attacks.

Furthermore, the researchers concluded that using a fan increased sweat losses by about 60 per cent, which might mean using a fan could be harmful if you're dehydrated.

The study lead, Connor Graham PhD said: 'Most extreme heat decedents do not have air conditioning but often own electric fans.

'Fan use can reduce heat-related elevations in thermal and cardiovascular strain at temperatures up to approximately 39 to 40 C.

'In hotter conditions, fans should be turned off, as they can worsen heat stress.'

This, Mr Graham explained, is because the high temperature of the air causes the body to heat up faster than it can cool itself by sweating.

This isn't the first link made between electric fans and death.

Scientific studies have found that fan use can reduce heat and heart strain in temperatures up to around 39 (102.2F), but once the mercury edges past 40C (104F) it's better to turn them off.

More than 7.6 million people in the UK are living with heart or circulatory diseases, according to the British Heart Foundation

Researchers have also recommended only using fans when it's below 39C for healthy adults below 40 years old and 38C (100.4F) for older adults 65 or older.

They also warned fans should only be used in temperatures above 37C in older adults on anticholinergic medications like oxybutynin for bladder control.

Earlier this week, an amber heat-health warning was issued for five regions of England by the UK Health Security Agency (UKSA) and the Met Office.

In response, Dr Paul Coleman, a public health expert at the watchdog, said: 'These temperatures can result in serious health outcomes across the population.'

This is particularly a problem for, he said 'those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly or those with serious health conditions'.

So he advised people to check in on friends, families or neighbours who are vulnerable to make sure they are coping well.

To stay safe in the hot weather, the watchdog recommends, keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun.

They also urged people to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke and what to do if you know or someone else has them.

In response to soaring temperatures across the UK health officials have urged people to know the tell-tale signs of a heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body loses its ability to cool itself, and its inner temperaturewhich usually hovers around 37Crapidly increases to over 40C.

The heart begins frantically pumping blood to try to cool it against the skin's surface.

The increased temperatures can also damage internal organs, leading to irreparable damage, or even catastrophic failure.

According to the NHS, tell-tale signs of the precursor to heat stroke, heat exhaustion, include tiredness, a high temperature, excessive sweating, being thirsty and weakness.

Others include fast breathing, rapid heart rate, being headaches, nausea, vomiting, clammy and/or pale skin, as well as cramps in the arms, legs and stomach.

While symptoms are often the same in adults and children, those under 18 may become irritable too.

If someone is showing these signs, the NHS advice is to cool them down and give them fluids.

They add that heat exhaustion will not typically need emergency medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes.

But if symptoms persist or worsen after 30 minutes, it may have turned into a heat strokewhich can be life threatening so you should call 999 immediately.

It can be fatal because when your body's temperature regulation system fails, it can lead to dangerously high temperatures that can cause organ damage.

Other signs of heat stroke are a very high temperature, hot skin that's not sweating and might look red, rapid heartbeat, fast breathing, shortness of breath, confusion, lack of coordination, seizures or fits, and loss of consciousness.
'Smart agriculture (digital countryside)' innovation competition kicks off in S China's Guangxi

People's Daily Online) 15:18, August 13, 2025

(Photo/Chinanews.com)

South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region recently launched the 2025 "Smart agriculture (digital countryside)" innovation competition, part of the "AI for All: China-ASEAN" competitionalso known as the "AI Super League"which began in July 2025 in Nanning, capital of Guangxi.

The 2025 "Smart agriculture (digital countryside)" innovation competition, themed "empowering agriculture and farmers through digital and AI technologies," focuses on smart agriculture and digital technology-driven rural development.

The event calls for entries centering on smart agriculture that are feasible to be implemented within Guangxi or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.

The entries must comply with China's laws and regulations on data security and personal information protection, according to credible sources.

The judging panel will assess submissions according to the criteria of innovation, technical sophistication, practicality, scalability, and completeness.

The competition particularly welcomes forward-looking, creative proposals from student teams.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
A breakthrough drug could provide new hair hope for the millions of men and women dealing with baldness.

The medication, called PP405, triggered hair to regrow on the heads of men and women who were balding on the front and top of their scalp.

In the phase 2a trial, participants rubbed gel containing the medication onto their scalp daily and saw hair begin to regrow by week eight.

Overall, 31 percent of those who used the medication had a greater than 20 percent surge in hair density. In the placebo group, none saw any hair regrowth.

No side effects or adverse events were recorded, and the medication also was not detected in the blood, in a sign the drug may not affect other areas of the body.

This is a landmark discovery because currently available medications, finasteride and minoxidil, take around six months to have a visible impact. They can trigger some regrowth, but this hair tends to be much thinner than the hair that has been lost.

Both drugs are also able to enter the blood. They have previously been linked to erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular issues.

The trial was only meant to test the safety of the drugs, with researchers saying it was too early to say whether the medication could reverse hair loss.

But scientists at Pelage Pharmaceuticals, the company behind the drug, said the hair regrowth was 'early validation of [the drug's] regenerative potential'.

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, pictured above in December 2024, started shaving his head in 2013 due to hair loss

Joe Rogan has publicly spoken about his hair loss and struggle with male pattern baldness

Your browser does not support iframes.

Dr Qing Yu Christina Weng, a dermatologist and chief medical officer involved in the trials, told Intelligencer: 'We were blown away [by the results].

'After just four weeks, you wouldnt expect any separation between the treatment group and the placebo group. And not only were they growing new hair where there wasnt any before, it wasnt peach fuzz or baby hair  it was proper, thick... hair.'

All the participants in the trial had varying levels of androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness, a loss of hair primarily affecting the top and front of the scalp.

The drug has now been cleared to advance to phase 3 trials next year, the gold-standard test to determine whether treatments are effective.

The drug works by triggering high levels of activity of an enzyme called lactate dehydrogenase, which researchers say rekindles old hair follicles.

If successful in further trials, they said it could reach customers in the US by 2027 or 2028.

Dr Gary Linkov, a plastic surgeon who was not involved in the study, said online: 'What people don't often realize is that in most cases of hair loss, hair follicles are not dead, they're usually in a dormant state. The architecture [for hair] is still there.

Dwayne Johnson, known as The Rock, began experiencing a receding hairline in his 20s and 30s

Jude Law has had a receding hairline since early in his career (pictured in Cannes, May 2023)

'If we could find a way to flip that switch back on, get the stem cells working again, we might be able to regrow hair in areas that were previously thought to be permanently bald.

'And this is where the... breakthrough happened.'

About 80 percent of men have hair loss at some point in their lives, with nearly a third recording noticeable hair thinning by age 30. Among women, estimates suggest that 40 percent have hair loss during their lives.

Currently, more than 80million people in the US are suffering from a form of hair loss, estimates suggest.

Despite this, however, there have been no major breakthroughs in hair loss medications since the 1970s and 80s after finasteride and minoxidil were approved.

They remain the only two drugs approved for hair loss.

The drugs have also been linked to concerning side effects, also including shifts in blood pressure and mood changes among some users.

Ralph Fiennes, who played Voldemort in Harry Potter, began to lose his hair in his early 30s. He is pictured above at a festival in Germany

Those seeking a restored hairline can opt for a hair transplant, but these are expensive, require weeks of recovery and are dependent on the amount of hair still available to be transferred.

The most recent results followed the phase 1 study carried out in 2023.

Dr Arash Mostaghimi, a dermatologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and a member of Pelage's advisory board, said: 'Despite affecting millions, hair loss has seen remarkably little progress in clinical research.

'What's compelling about PP405 is that it brings scientific rigor to a space that's needed it for decades.

'A well-tolerated, topically delivered therapy that shows measurable biological activity this early is rare. This could reshape how we think about clinical progress in hair growth.'
When Jack Alexander and his partner Laura went for their early 16-week baby scan, they were delighted to discover they were expecting identical twin girls.

But their happiness quickly turned to 'devastation' as they were told their babies were suffering from twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) - a rare condition which sees one fetus starved of blood and fluid.

The couple were soon faced with a heartbreaking dilemma: let one twin die to save the other - or undertake risky laser surgery for a chance at saving both.

Determined to fight for both girls, the couple were referred to St George's Hospital in London for specialist treatment - a six-hour round trip from their home in Corfe Mullen, Dorset, which they could be required to make every week.

Jack, who has been forced to launch a GoFundMe, told the Daily Mail: 'It's devastating knowing that it could be 50/50. I'm just trying to be positive for my partner as she is very lost at the moment.

'They said obviously if we don't have it done, there is a risk that we could lose one.

'But obviously it does carry risks to it as well.'

Jack, a chef, explained 'Twin One' is currently one week behind 'Twin Two' in their development, with midwives unable to see her bladder.

Twin Two (right) is receiving more blood and fluids than Twin One (left)

Jack Alexander and his partner Laura (pictured) were delighted when they found out they were having identical twin girls

Twin One (left) is one week behind her sister in development due to twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)

'It was a big shocker for us. We went for our 12-week scan and we didn't know we were having twins, and [the midwife] said we've got identical twins in there,' he said.

'This made us emotional anyway, knowing this was a happy thing. We went for a private scan two days before our 16-week one, just for an early gender reveal, and she said Twin Two has got more fluid in their sack than Twin One.

'She said this could be a problem.

'We hung around, and two days later we went for our 16-week scan at Bournemouth hospital, and they said that they can't see the bladder of Twin One.'

The couple, who have three children between them from previous relationships, said they are willing to take the risks that come with laser treatment for a fighting chance of saving both girls.

However, this means leaving behind their children - aged six, 10 and 13, for weekly visits to London that will be costly due to travel and hotel stays.

'We have to travel up to London by car. Without traffic it's just over three hours. I think we'll have to do this every week near enough. They've classed her as high risk, so they're doing weekly checks all the time as well,' Jack said.

'We have to travel all the way up, and if she does have this laser treatment, she's going to have to stay up there for a few days, recover, and see how she is.'

He added: 'You've got to be positive through this, otherwise you're going to put yourself down. It is heartbreaking, but I need to be strong for my Mrs as well.'

The couple have launched a GoFundMe in a desperate bid to raise the funds they will need to travel to London.

The couple have been faced with a heartbreaking dilemma: let one twin die to save the other - or undertake risky laser surgery for a chance at saving both

The twins will have more of a fighting chance of survival if her mother has laser treatment

TTTS is a rare but life-threatening condition that affects 10 to 15 per cent of identical twins that share a placenta (monochorionic twins)

Asma Khalil, Professor of Obstetrics and Maternal Fetal Medicine at St George's, said: 'The laser surgery is not a risk-free procedure. It can trigger early birth or a miscarriage'

This year, former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson revealed she had been diagnosed with pre-twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, meaning one or both babies could have died.

She had to undergo an emergency procedure in March after suffering complications, and was advised to remain in hospital until she was at least 32 weeks into her pregnancy.

In May, she confirmed both girls were safe and well - three days after giving birth prematurely.

Asma Khalil, Professor of Obstetrics and Maternal Fetal Medicine at St George's Hospital, University of London, recommended that families facing a similar situation to Jesy and her partner contact the charity, Twins Trust, for resources and support.

She said: 'TTTS is a rare but life-threatening condition that affects 10 to 15 per cent of identical twins that share a placenta (monochorionic twins).

'If left untreated, you can lose one or both babies in up to 80% of the cases. Laser surgery is the recommended treatment. In 85 per cent of these pregnancies, at least one baby survives and in up to 70 per cent of cases both babies survive.

'The laser surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia and it usually lasts for less than 30 minutes. A fetoscope (thin camera) is inserted into the womb via a small incision. Abnormal vascular connections in the placenta are sealed using the laser.

'The laser surgery is not a risk-free procedure. It can trigger early birth or a miscarriage. The pregnancy still needs close monitoring.

'Parents could lose one or both babies. As this is a very stressful time for the family, the parents often need emotional support.'

If you would like to help Jack and his partner, visit their GoFundMe.
Christine Baranski took aim at Gayle King and Katy Perry over their Jeff Bezos-funded trip to space as she sneered at modern corruption.

The Mamma Mia star, 73, addressed the widely-mocked Blue Origin trip to space while speaking on a panel on Monday about her hit HBO show, The Gilded Age.

The actress was making a point about how The Gilded Age gives viewers a glimpse into the huge gap between the nation's wealthiest and poorest.

'The grotesque displays of wealth sending women into a spaceship for what? so they can do their makeup? What the f**k?' Baranski said of the all-female flight into orbit, which also included Bezos' wife Lauren Sanchez.

'Don't get me started,' Baranski added, exasperated.

The Blue Origin crew was criticized for their flight into orbit, which did not have a scientific purpose.

Gaye King and CBS were also slammed for the gushing and glossy coverage on the network, as it was unclear who - if anyone - footed the bill for the expedition.

Non-celebrities face a $300,000 fare to make the same trip.

Christine Baranski, 73, said the all-female Blue Origin flight to space was 'grotesque'

Katy Perry, Lauren Sanchez, Gayle King, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, former rocket scientist Aisha Bowe and filmmaker Kerianne Flynn are seen in space

King responded to critics who called the trip a 'space ride,' saying it was sexist to describe it in such a way

Bezos got huge exposure for his fledgling space exploration company and was seen opening the capsule door to welcome his friends back to Earth.

Breathtaking footage showed King and other celebrities including Sanchez and Perry screaming while weightless and peering into the vast emptiness of space.

The flight itself lasted just 11 minutes, but there was plenty of build-up to blast-off and excitement after the A-List crew touched back down in West Texas, with CBS alumnus Oprah Winfrey among those waiting to greet the crew.

King responded to critics who called the trip a 'space ride', saying it was sexist to describe it in such a way.

'They call it a ride, which I find very irritating because they never say men went for a ride,' King, 70, said.

Responding to accusations that the suborbital flight had no real scientific purpose, King spoke with fellow crewmate, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe on CBS Mornings.

'Theres so many things that have been developed in space that benefit Earth... from pharmaceuticals to, like, research on agriculture,' Bowe said.

Gayle King, seen with former NASA scientist Aisha Bowe, suggested it is sexist to say the all-female Blue Origin crew took a 'space trip'

'And, you know, I paused there because we did research and it was emotional... Part of what I accomplished in my flight was I was looking at the future of being able to produce crops that can withstand harsh environments so we can look at food security here on Earth, and simultaneously, we also were able to certify that device so more people could do research on New Shepard.'

It is unclear what specific research Bowe conducted, but footage of the flight showed the all-female crew floating, marveling at the view, and holding personal items.

Bowe held a small Bahamas flag and pop star Katy Perry carried a daisy and a list of the setlist of her upcoming tour while shrieking the lyrics to Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World'.

King insisted the flight was significant, saying 'you have never said to a [male] astronaut, "What a ride." [Don't] call it a ride.'

She added: 'It's called a flight or a journey. A ride implies it's something frivolous or light hearted. There's nothing frivolous about what we did.'
John Oliver told Monica Lewinsky Tuesday that Donald Trump's immigration policies have him worried for his own safety, despite the fact that he's a US citizen and has been for nearly six years.

The British-born host of HBO's Last Week Tonight made the claim on Lewinsky's podcast.

The two had been discussing the recent ICE raids and how they have caused hysteria throughout much of the country.

Oliver, 48, insisted the stress he felt prior to getting his citizenship has now resurfaced in spades.

'I finally got my citizenship in 2019 - at the end of 2019,' the late night host recalled. 'But I realized - I thought about it every day.

'Somewhere at the back of my head, was my immigration status,' he continued. 'At no point was it not somewhere in my mind.'

'And I have to remind myself now, with all these stories going on it brings something out of you.

'Like it's there  that anxiety that I thought I'd moved past that day that I got my citizenship. I thought it would be gone then [with the] citizenship.'

John Oliver explained to Monica Lewinsky Tuesday - on her 'Reclaiming' podcast - how Donald Trump's immigration policies have him worried for his own safety as a former immigrant

Oliver became a US citizen almost six years ago. He said recent ICE raids brought on by the new administration reignited old stress

'I didn't feel that,' he declared. 'Like the relief, didn't feel enough.'

Lewinsky, a former White House intern, said she also empathized with immigrants' experiences.

'Just of feeling hunted, of feeling unsafe, of something can happen any moment,' she said, before comparing the fears immigrants face to those of women.

'Whether it's being recognized or a paparazzi or there's, there's something, a feeling of unsafety wherever you are - and probably a lot of women feel that in general.'

Oliver agreed, telling the part-time motivational speaker: 'It feels like there's a lot of crossover there.'

The two spoke for more than an hour.

At one point, Lewinsky - whose affair with then-president Bill Clinton in the late 1990s became a national scandal - asked whether Oliver's immigrant status made him 'feel differently about what's happening.'

'I don't know,' Oliver replied, before providing an anecdote about him 'talking to the parents of a little kid that [he] know[s] yesterday.'

Lewinsky, a former White House intern who had an affair with then-President Bill Clinton, said she also empathized with immigrants' experiences, 'Just of feeling hunted, of feeling unsafe, of something can happen any moment'

Oliver, the host of Last Week Tonight, agreed when Lewinsky compared the fears immigrants now face to those of American women

'We very quickly ended up like talking about forms, experiences, [and] interviews,' he claimed

'It's really hard - and so I can get sent back to the anxiety that I felt for a long time very quick.'

He added how scrutiny into immigrants' backgrounds 'does feel personal.

'It's one of the things I get really mad about, and therefore want to use on our show to show Americans who may have heard things like, "Come in the right way, just do things the right way," and not fully understand just how antithetical that is to the process that actually exists.'

ICE raids and arrests have seen roughly 185,000 immigrants deported from the US just this year.

ICE has faced widespread backlash as a result. Advocates - many of them US citizens - have been swept up and at times arrested while documenting the raids.

In LA, nurse Amanda Trebach was arrested Friday morning while recording ICE operations in the city. She was released the following day without ever being hit with charges.

Other incidents of profiling from federal agents have also spawned criticism - and tension - across the country.

ICE raids and arrests have seen roughly 185,000 deported just this year. The Trump administration recently asked to halt a court order that would limit ICE agents' ability to arrest suspected illegal immigrants based on the language they speak or where they work

Late night host Jimmy Kimmel touched on this last week, telling Sarah Silverman on her podcast how he had obtained Italian citizenship amid such fears.

Days before, the president panned Kimmel on Truth Social, predicting his and Jimmy Fallon's show 'were next' - after the decision to cancel the Late Show with Stephen Colbert for what was billed as financial reasons.

The Trump administration recently asked the Supreme Court to halt a court order that would limit ICE agents' ability to arrest suspected illegal immigrants based on the language they speak or where they work, as claims of profiling continue.
CNNs Abby Phillip has provided Donald Trump a new nickname - albeit accidentally and one his supporters quickly embraced.

The CNN NewsNight host had been introducing a segment centered around Trump's deployment of federal troops to Washington, DC, Monday, when she compared the conservative to 'Batman' and the municipality to 'Gotham City.'

The fictional metropolis is famously overrun by crime.

Phillip, in turn, told Scott Jennings, Tara SetMayer, Ben Ferguson and Dan Koh: 'The President of the United States has declared himself crime-fighter-in-chief.

'Hes taking over Washingtons police force,' she further complained. 'It is a move that the DC mayor is calling unsettling and unprecedented.'

Phillip argued Trump was 'painting [the situation] as an emergency' without much proof.

Onlookers on X appeared more interested in her earlier remarks.

CNNs Abby Phillip accidentally handed Donald Trump a new nickname on NewsNight Monday, after comparing the conservative to Batman during a discussion about his takeover of DC's police force this week

'The President of the United States has declared himself crime-fighter-in-chief, and hes taking over Washingtons police force,' Phillip told panelists. 'Donald Trump makes himself Batman and the nations capital is Gotham City'

Abby Phillip attempts to deride President Trump by calling him Batman



"Donald Trump makes himself Batman and the nations capital is Gotham City."



Does she know that makes him sound awesome?pic.twitter.com/H5e0glySsU  MRC NewsBusters (@newsbusters) August 12, 2025

Conservative pundit Steve Guest thought the comparison to DC's caped crusader made Trump look 'cool' - even if it was not 'Abbys intention at all.'

The conservative media watchdog group Media Research Center's investigation team, Newsbusters, added: 'Does she know that makes him sound awesome?'

Others embraced the epithet with memes, including some showing Trump in costume as the comic book character.

'I already voted for him! You dont have to keep convincing me!' Libs Of TikTok's X account joked.

'Yall really trying to make @realDonaldTrump look even more bada*s aren't you @abbydphillip?' asked someone else.

Others shared a clip of a 2015 interaction between a then campaigning Trump and a young boy on his helicopter.

'Are you Batman?' the boy asked.

'I am Batman,' the soon-to-be president said in response.

Many more memes embracing the anchor's comparison ensued, as Trump takes over DC's police force continues

A US National Guard member outside the DC Armory after Trump's order to deploy the National Guard Monday. Trump pointed to an array of statistics to support

Crime has fallen in DC for the past two years, to a 30-year low. Trump has continued to highlight a 2023 spike as proof DC's police force needs to be under government control

The rest of the CNN NewsNight discussion revolved around crime in Washington, which Phillip said was 'at a 30-year low.'

Still, DC's murder rate is high - seventh in the nation when looking at cities with 250,000 or more citizens.

The municipality has also been plagued by an uptick in violent crimes seen since 2020 - a year where there was a 30 percent increase in murders nationwide.

Shoplifting crimes and attacks on government employees have persisted in the Capital ever since. They reached a post-pandemic peak in 2023.

Crime has fallen in DC each year since. Trump has continued to highlight the 2023 spike as proof DC's police force needs to be under government control.

Members of the National Guard were given orders to report to their stations on Tuesday morning. Trump signed an order summoning them the day before.
Morning Joe host Joe Scarborough was met with some pushback from his MSNBC colleague Symone Sanders Townsend during a discussion about Donald Trump's federal takeover of Washington, DC, on Tuesday.

Scarborough, 62, had claimed the municipality has serious crime problems, and that Trump's decision was the right one to make.

Sanders Townsend - a former spokesperson and advisor to then-Vice President Kamala Harris - argued the plan to mobilize hundreds of National Guard troops was not only unconstitutional, but uncalled for.

She cited statistics showing how DC crime is in decline despite Trump's emergency order, while accusing the conservative of 'fearmongering' and engaging in 'rhetoric and not the reality.'

Scarborough responded by asking the politician-turned-pundit to clarify her stance on local law enforcement.

The inquiry appeared to suggest Sanders Townsend - a black woman - subscribed to the 'Defund the Police' movement.

Scarborough had asked: 'You don't think more police make streets safer?'

Sanders Townsend, 35, clapped back: 'No, Joe, I'm a Black woman in America. I do not always think that more police make streets safer.'

Morning Joe's Scarborough was met with some serious pushback from MSNBC colleague Symone Sanders Townsend during a discussion about Donald Trump's federal takeover of Washington, DC, on Tuesday

The two sparred over whether DC does, in fact, have a serious crime problem - and whether Trump's decision was the right one to make.

A smirking Scarborough listened silently as Sanders Townsend continued her spiel.

'When you walk down the streets of Georgetown, you don't see a police officer on every corner, but you don't feel unsafe,' she argued.

'I think we have to rethink what safety means in America,' she added.

Scarborough, a former Florida Republican, replied: 'Well, you know, there have been black city council members in New York City when people were talking about defunding the police, saying the people we represent are the people who need police officers the most.'

'So our children can walk from their homes to school without being stopped, you know, five, ten times by drug dealers or people that are going to assault them,' he added.

Sanders Townsend remained unconvinced, causing Scarborough to outright question his coworker's stance.

"I just, I don't, I don't think this is an issue of Black versus white", he said.

'When you come- when you're talking about safety, there are a lot of Black Americans who don't feel safe in their homes, in their neighborhoods.

Sanders Townsend brought her background into the argument after Scarborough asked her if she 'felt safer' with more police in DC. The former Kamala Harris advisor called Trump's deployment of more than 800 troops to take over police operations 'authoritarian overreach'

Your browser does not support iframes.

'And when they hear people talking about defunding the police, it freaks them out'.

Sanders Townsend still insisted Trump taking over DC's police force was 'authoritarian overreach,' before clarifying some of her views.

'I'm not saying that the police are not good, I never supported defund,' she said. 'I think you're making a good point, Joe.

'I want to be able to call the police in my neighborhood, and when they come, I don't want them to think that I'm a suspect,' she added.

'But what we are talking about is that the president of the United States is saying that there is a crime emergency in Washington, D.C.

'An emergency could be anything that he says it is,' she concluded, as Scarborough attempted to interrupt.

Both have called DC home for the past decade, during a pandemic-related spike in crime that finally began to decrease last year.

Trump has cited the 2023 spike as evidence that federal intervention is needed. Troops began arriving in DC on Tuesday morning. More than 800 National Guard agents have been deployed.

Troops began arriving in DC Tuesday morning. More than 800 National Guard agents have been deployed

Some have criticized the move as being for show. Others, like Scarborough, have claimed it was a long time coming.

Currently, DC's murder rate is high - seventh in the nation when looking at cities with 250,000 or more citizens.

Shoplifting crimes and attacks on government employees, moreover, have persisted since the pandemic.

Earlier in the week, Scarborough chided local officials for what he framed as lax sentencing laws that have allowed local judges to me more lenient with younger criminals.

'If city council members continue to do things that undermine the security of, of the streets and of the communities and the places, not only where tourists go, where people have to go to work day in and day out,' he argued Monday.

'Then yeah - we need the federal government to be far more involved in the nations capital. This is not Nebraska.'

'This is the nations capital,' he asserted, hours after Trump ordered an increased presence of law enforcement.
Anderson Cooper thinks Donald Trump has taken over policing in Washington DC to dare Democrats into saying there's no crime problem in US cities.

The CNN star told New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman that the Dems' decision to highlight falling crime in DC will likely backfire - because so many locals of all political persuasions have recent personal experiences of lawlessness.

'Its so interesting,' Cooper said on his show AC: 360 on Tuesday. 'The conflict, you know, Democrats face when talking about the policing in the District of Columbia.'

'Do you point out statistics of out of a 30-year low as they as the statistics show, and thereby sound like youre saying, oh, theres not a crime problem in Washington, DC? Where theres crime problem everywhere.'

Haberman agreed, conceding: 'There is a crime problem everywhere.'

Total violent crime in the District of Columbia was down 35 percent from 2023 last year, the DOJ said in January.

Rates of violent crime in DC are now as low as they have been at any time over the last 30 years.

But the capital saw an enormous surge of lawlessness during the COVID pandemic.

It continues to be plagued by shocking incidents - often caught on video - which help the perception of anarchy persist.

Any Democrat seeking to play down crime in DC in the face of these anecdotes and images risks looking woke and soft-on-lawlessness, Cooper and Haberman seemed to imply.

Anderson Cooper explained to frequent CNN contributor Maggie Haberman Donald Trump's alleged game plan in taking over Washington, DC

He said the strategy is effectively designed to get Democrats to come out and say there's no crime problem in the municipality, based on falling rates, when crime there - and many other cities - remains a major problem. Pictured, feds searching a DC couple's car on Tuesday

She added: 'I mean, in multiple cities, big cities have traditionally had crime problems.'

The pundit proceeded to point to crime rate spikes 'seen during COVID.'

'In some cases we have seen it come down but there are a lot of people who feel unsafe in big cities,' she said, before pointing to Mayor Muriel Bowser's lukewarm response to Trump's edict as further proof progressives are being baited.

The DC mayor slammed Trump's takeover on Monday as 'unsettling.'

'If, you know, the mayor pushes back on the President, she sounds like shes not addressing concerns of constituents,' Haberman said. 'Those are the choices.'

The conversation ended there, with Cooper concluding the show shortly thereafter.

Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard Monday elicited a similar reaction from other left-leaning pundits over on MSNBC, where DC resident Joe Scarborough has repeatedly reamed Democrats for ignoring the current state of the city's streets.

'Certainly dont need the National Guard in there, or certainly not Marines,' he said on Friday's Morning Joe, before Trump mobilized 800 troops. 'But you look at Washington, DC, and its been dangerous for years.

'Theres crime everywhere,' Cooper explained on Tuesday's Anderson Cooper 360, before detailing to New York Times correspondent Maggie Haberman how statistical drops seen there recently are misleading

Trump vowed to address crime in DC during his most recent campaign, after one of the worst years for the municipality on record. He justified his decision by insisting the state of DC constituted a 'crime emergency'

'There have been, you know, a year, a couple of years here, a couple of years there, where its been a bit better - but certainly over the past five years it has just been an absolute mess.

'Its quality of life has been terrible,' he lamented. 'Weve heard it from people that have gone there to visit and are horrified that the nations capital is as dangerous as it is.'

Trump went on to make good on his campaign promise to address crime in the capital, in a move some have criticized as a step too far and unconstitutional.

Early data from the Metropolitan Police Department suggests violent crime has dropped 26 percent since 2024.

Total violent crime for 2024 in the District of Columbia was down 35 percent from the year before. The DOJ, at the time, celebrated it as a '30-year-low.'

A few days later, Trump was sworn in. A litany of executive orders followed, include the one signed Monday that saw feds assume control of DC's police force.

He justified the order by insisting the state of DC constituted a 'crime emergency'. Liberals were quick to react. Troops arrived there on Tuesday morning. The situation remains ongoing.
Holidaymakers facing delays or cancellations to their flights this summer may not get the full compensation they are owed due to a series of sneaky pitfalls.

Strike action, staff shortages and technical faults at airports and traffic control are leaving thousands of families facing hours of waiting in airports and cancelled flights.

But between airlines trying to fob you off with excuses, scammers posing as customer service teams and claims management companies vying to get a cut of your compensation, theres a good chance you may not get the amount youre entitled to.

So just how much can you claim after a flight delay  and what pitfalls must you dodge in the process of fighting for your due compensation?

What you're entitled to for being delayed . . .

Whether you are due compensation or not depends on where the flight departed from  or was supposed to depart from  and the airline you flew with.

You can only claim compensation if the flight was with a UK or EU airline, such as Ryanair or Lufthansa, for example, or your flight left from the UK or EU.

If you experienced a significant delay on a flight from London to New York on American Airlines, for example, you would be eligible to make a claim. But if it occurred on the reverse journey, you wouldnt be able to.

If the reverse journey from New York to London was with British Airways, however, then you can make a claim.

Strike action, staff shortages and technical faults at airports and traffic control are leaving thousands of families facing hours of waiting in airports and cancelled flights

Your right to compensation is covered by EU law, known as EU Reg 261/2004 to which the UK still abides. However, other countries and airlines have their own compensation schemes that you may still be able to apply under if youre not eligible under the EU scheme.

How much youre entitled to depends on the length of the delay and distance of the flight.

Youre not eligible to claim compensation for any delay less than three hours. If your journey of up to 1,500km is delayed by at least three hours, you can claim 220. For a 1,500km to 3,500km journey which is three or more hours late, its a 350 payout.

A journey of more than 3,500km which is delayed by less than four hours triggers 260 in compensation, while for a delay of four hours or more its a hefty 520.

Your airline must also provide you with food and drink (typically vouchers), access to phone calls, accommodation if youre delayed overnight, and journeys between the hotel and the airport.

You can choose not to take your flight if the delay reaches the five-hour mark. If so, you can claim a full refund for the ticket, a refund for an onward journey or return flight, and a flight back to the place you originally departed from if youre mid-way through a journey.

If you do decide to take the flight, you can claim up to 520 in compensation, depending on the distance of the flight.

When you claim, make sure you know how much statutory compensation you should be owed. The airline may not tell you initially, so know the numbers in case they come back with an offer below what you should get.

A journey of more than 3,500km which is delayed by less than four hours triggers 260 in compensation, while for a delay of four hours or more its a hefty 520

 and if you face a cancellation

IF YOUR flight is cancelled, you can either request a full refund or a replacement flight so you can get to your destination.

Plus, if the replacement flight means you arrive at your destination at least two hours late or your flight was cancelled less than 14 days before the planned take off, you have the right to compensation.

Theres a variety of different amounts you could be entitled to depending on when the flight was cancelled, the distance of the flight and the timings of the rescheduled flight. Check these with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at caa.co.uk.

Remember you can also claim on your travel insurance if the airline wont pay out.

If the reason for the cancellation is outside of an airlines control, your travel insurer should reimburse you.

Plus, if you can no longer get to your destination, travel insurance could reimburse your holiday accommodation and hire car costs as well as connecting flights. Make sure cancellation cover is included in your policy.

If you think youre entitled to compensation, contact the airline you flew with directly. It will often have a standard form to fill out  youll have to enter your personal details, flight number and bank account information.

But you also must beware of these sneaky pitfalls which could strip you of what youre owed

1. PUSH BACK ON SNEAKY EXCUSES

IN ORDER for you to receive a payout, the delay or cancellation must be the airlines fault.

Was there a security alert or air traffic control strike? Then the delay is not down to the airline and you wont be entitled to compensation.

However, consumer expert Martyn James says: An airline may claim that strikes are out of their hands. But some strikes are by airline staff, for example, which is the airlines responsibility.

A strike by the ground staff wouldnt be covered.

The airline has to prove it. You should always ask an airline to confirm in writing why it said no to compensation.

Common reasons for delays which are in the airlines control include staff shortages or sickness, cancelled flights because of under-booking or the pilot turning up late. Technical faults can also be the fault of the airline.

Airlines often use the excuse of bad weather to dismiss a customers claim.

But Sally Hamilton, Money Mails consumer champion, warns: It has to be exceptionally bad weather. Things like lightning do not count  thats a normal, everyday issue for an airline.

Plus, the bad weather defence can only be used for the flight in question  it cannot be applied because of knock-on effects of bad weather affecting journeys the plane made earlier in the day to yours, for example.

Ms Hamilton says: Investigate yourself to see what the weather conditions were like. You could try to contact the airport to see what was happening that day. Were other airlines cancelling that day?

2. AVOID CLAIMS MANAGEMENT COMPANIES

IF YOURE hot, tired and anxious while delayed for hours on end in the airport, it may be tempting to search online for ways to claim compensation from an airline.

But do this and youre likely to be bombarded with sponsored adverts for claims management companies.

These are firms that can help you make a claim and assist with any paperwork.

It may sound tempting to instruct a firm to deal with the rigmarole of pursing compensation, but you could lose a huge chunk of any compensation to them.

Ms Hamilton says: It should be straightforward to do your own claim. Youll lose around 30 to 40 pc with a claims management company. If you are very busy then you can maybe use them, but try to get someone else to help with it first. They can know little quirks, but they should be used as a last resort.

3. CONSIDER A REROUTE OVER A REFUND

IF YOUR flight is cancelled, you could opt for a full refund or a replacement flight to get you to your destination  but you should think carefully about which one you want.

If you still want to get to your destination, its typically better to opt for a replacement flight.

Thats because the amount of the refund is less than booking on to a last-minute flight yourself, so you could lose money.

Plus, if you accept the refund, the airline typically has no further obligation to you.

If you accept a replacement flight, the airline has a responsibility to provide one at the earliest opportunity and it can be with a competitor.

4. BEWARE SCAM AIRLINE CUSTOMER SERVICES

Travellers must beware where they claim compensation, as they could be targeted by a scammer posing as an airlines customer service team or even the CAA.

Fraudsters are pouncing on vulnerable and stressed travellers to strip them of their money and pilfer their personal details. Scammers impersonating an airline may send emails, text messages or even call claiming they can help you get compensation  or they could get in touch via a fake social media account impersonating an airline.

If you have suffered a delayed flight and are expecting contact from the airline, this type of message could easily catch you out.

They may ask for your flight number, booking reference and bank details or give you a link, leading to a phishing website designed to steal your personal and financial information. Another trick is asking you to pay a small fee to speed up the claims process. Use contact details found independently and an airlines official website to claim.

5. BOOK CONNECTING FLIGHTS IN ONE GO

Make sure you book all your connecting flights in one go, instead of separately.

Due to the regulations, if you were flying from London to Singapore with Qatar Airways and stopped in Doha, you would be covered for delays and cancellations on either leg if you booked them together.

However, book the flights separately and you may find yourself out of pocket. Any delays or cancellations from Doha to Singapore would not be covered as that flight is neither leaving a UK nor EU destination, nor is it operated by a UK or EU airline.

Mr James suggests making a single booking to avoid this happening. Ive seen cases where airlines say the flights is not covered but it is. An airline may say it doesnt count but thats rubbish.

6. YOU DON'T HAVE TO ACCEPT VOUCHERS

Airlines dished out plenty of vouchers during the chaotic travel days of the pandemic and some continue to do so in lieu of compensation for cancelled or delayed flights. But they are limited to that airline and have expiry dates  and you do not have to accept this if you do not want to.

You can accept them if you prefer, but be aware you typically then forfeit your right to change your mind and ask for compensation.

7. THE DELAY LASTS UNTIL DOORS OPEN

Stopwatches at the ready! Airlines may try to claim your plane wasnt delayed by three hours or more. The length of the delay is not based on the time you took off but your arrival time.

For example, if you took off three hours later than the scheduled time but arrive only two hours and 45 minutes later than your designated arrival slot, your delay time is two hours 45 minutes.

But a previous court case means this rule could work in your favour. Judges at the highest court in Europe decided the delay stops when one of the planes doors is opened.

Mr James says: The clock stops when at least one of the plane doors is opened at your destination. Lots of airlines will argue that it happens sooner or say that taxiing doesnt count.

Until that door is open, you havent technically arrived. Make a careful note of the time cabin crew open the doors and present it to the airline.

Have you struggled to get compensation from an airline? Email l.evans@dailymail.co.uk
A Labour minister today opened the door to a controversial inheritance tax raid as Chancellor Rachel Reeves looks to plug a 50billion spending hole at her next Budget.

Dame Diana Johnson, the Policing Minister, failed to rule out changes to the so-called 'death tax' this autumn amid growing concerns about the state of the public finances.

It follows claims that Treasury officials are examining whether tightening rules around the gifting of assets and money could help fill the multi-billion-pound shortfall.

The prospect of a lifetime cap which would limit the amount a person could gift before their death is under consideration, the Guardian reported.

The Tories warned the plans revealed Labour's 'politics of envy', and said people should not be punished for passing on their hard-earned money.

Party leader Kemi Badenoch demanded the Government cut spending and not hike taxes, as she hit out at families having to 'pay for Rachel Reeves's failures'.

The National Institute of Economic and Social Research recently said Ms Reeves needs to find 50billion in tax rises or spending cuts to balance the books by the end of the decade.

The respected think-tank said that public sector borrowing being higher than expected and the weak economic growth had left the Chancellor with an 'impossible' choice between the two options.

As well as a possible inheritance tax raid, Ms Reeves is also said to be looking at a fresh increase in the capital gains tax rate, as well as further 'stealth' and 'sin' taxes.

A Labour minister has opened the door to an inheritance tax raid as Chancellor Rachel Reeves looks to plug a 50billion spending hole at her next Budget

Dame Diana Johnson, the Policing Minister, failed to rule out changes to the so-called 'death tax' this autumn amid growing concerns about the state of the public finances

Your browser does not support iframes.

Asked by Sky News this morning if Ms Reeves is planning an inheritance tax raid, Dame Diana said: 'I'm not the Chancellor and she's obviously going to announce her Budget in the autumn and will make her announcements then.

'But what I'm really clear about is that the decisions that she's already taken have allowed, for example, for me as the Policing Minister to make sure that we're getting those 3,000 additional police officers this year into our communities to keep people safe.

'So I think the Budget will come in October and we'll hear then what she wants to announce.'

Mrs Badenoch said: 'Labours mask has slipped. They want your savings, your pension, your home and now what you leave your children.

'This is all to pay for Rachel Reevess failures. As ever, Labours answer is even more taxes.

'We should be cutting spending, not making working families pay more.'

Sir Mel Stride, the Tory economic spokesman, warned against 'punishing' savers for Labour's fiscal black hole.

'Labour is coming for your family's future to fund their failure - and they won't stop at inheritance tax,' he said.

'Those who've worked hard, saved responsibly and hope to leave something behind shouldn't be punished to pay for Labour's economic black hole.

'It's the same old Labour: tax first, think later. Nothing is safe under Labour - not your savings, not your pension, not even the gift of helping your children.

'This is the politics of envy and working families will pay the price.'

Helen Whately, the Tory work and pensions spokesman, told GB News there would 'inevitably' be tax rises in the autumn following Labour's failure to 'get a grip' on welfare spending.

Figures published by the Department for Work and Pensions yesterday showed the number of people claiming Universal Credit hit 8million last month.

The steep rise in the number of claimants over the past 12 months was driven almost entirely by people who are not required to work.

The number of people on Universal Credit with 'no work requirements' reached 3.7million in July this year - an increase of 39 per cent or 1million since July 2024.

It means 46 per cent of all Universal Credit claimants are not expected to do anything to prepare or to look for work.

Sir Keir Starmer last month saw his attempt to cut Britain's ballooning benefits bill derailed by a major rebellion among Labour MPs.

The Prime Minister was forced to scrap most of his planned welfare changes in the face of a huge Labour revolt.

An earlier U-turn on axing winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners has also left Ms Reeves with billions of pounds to try and find in spending cuts or tax rises in her next Budget.

John O'Connell, of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: 'As if hammering family farms and clobbering small businesses wasn't enough, Reeves now wants to launch a smash and grab on presents to children and grandchildren.

'This is nothing more than a shameless cash grab to paper over the cracks of a Government that can't control its own spending.

'Punishing parents and grandparents for treating their loved ones is little more than the politics of envy.

'Not only should this vindictive policy be ruled out immediately, but inheritance tax itself should be scrapped in its entirety.'

The row over a possible inheritance tax raid came as a new YouGov poll showed Reform UK stretching their lead over Labour to seven percentage points.

Nigel Farage's party were supported by 28 per cent of voters, up one percentage point, while Labour and the Tories were unchanged on 21 per cent and 17 per cent, respectively.

Analysis by Pantheon Macroeconomics predicted Ms Reeves will hit households with 'a mix of 'sin' tax and duty hikes, the freezing of income-tax thresholds, and either pension-tax or unspecified spending restrictions in 2029-30 to fill the hole in the public finances'.

A sin tax is a tax on goods and services which are deemed harmful to individuals or society, such as tobacco or alcohol, as well as gambling.

Freezing income-tax thresholds is often referred to as a 'stealth tax' because more people are pulled into paying higher rates of tax as their wages grow.

The Pantheon report added: 'Public finances are in a desperate condition, and the Government appears to be limping from one fiscal event to another with no clear plan to deal with medium-term fiscal pressures and long-term sustainability.'

Adam Corlett, principal economist at the Resolution Foundation, told The i Paper: 'With the Chancellor likely to need significant tax revenues in her Budget this autumn, sin taxes are a sensible place to start.

'Specific policies could include raising gambling duties and aviation levies, while motoring taxes are also in need of reform.

'But while sensible, there are limits to how much these reforms can raise, and the Chancellor may need to look to more mainstream taxes if the fiscal hole she needs to fill is particularly large.'

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch demanded the Government cut spending and not hike taxes, as she hit out at families having to 'pay for Rachel Reeves' failures'

The row over a possible inheritance tax raid came as a new YouGov poll showed Reform UK stretching their lead over Labour to seven percentage points

Ms Reeves has already ruled out increasing National Insurance, income tax and VAT for workers leaving her limited options to raise money unless she changes her fiscal rules.

Inheritance tax raises around 7billion a year and is paid by around four per cent of estates.

It is currently set at a rate of 40per cent of the value of estates above 325,000.

Labour officials are said to be concerned about the amount of money being extracted from pension pots and gifted to relatives.

They are reportedly looking for a way to tap into the wealth of the 'boomer' generation who have benefited from rising property prices and gold-plated pensions.

Gifts made seven years before someone dies are at present not subject to inheritance tax.

Those given three to seven years before death are taxed on a sliding scale known as 'taper relief'. The rate reduces each year from 32per cent to 8per cent.

A Treasury source told the Guardian: 'With so much wealth stored in assets like houses that have shot up in value, we have to find ways to better tap into the inheritances of those who can afford to contribute more.

'It's hard to make sure these taxes don't end up with loopholes that undermine their purpose.

'But we are trying to work out what revenue might be raised and how to ensure it's a fair approach.'

Sir Mel Stride, the Tory shadow chancellor, warned Ms Reeves against 'punishing' savers for Labour's fiscal black hole

YouGov polling data showed Labour's approval rating is getting worse and worse

The source added: 'IHT can raise more, and even if we do nothing, it will raise more money as the threshold for paying it stays frozen.

'But we have to look at the levers for taxing wealth if the aim of the government is to avoid hitting earnings from work as much as possible.'

At the last Budget, Ms Reeves changed the rules so farmers paid inheritance tax for the first time on estates over 1million.

The paper also reported that Ms Reeves is looking at whether to increase capital gains tax rates by a few percentage points.

This could be teamed with an allowance for those who put money into British businesses so as not to deter investment into the UK.

Ms Reeves has been under pressure from her backbenchers to introduce a form of wealth tax to target the rich.

A Treasury spokesman said: 'As set out in the plan for change, the best way to strengthen public finances is by growing the economy - which is our focus.

'Changes to tax and spend policy are not the only ways of doing this, as seen with our planning reforms, which are expected to grow the economy by 6.8bn and cut borrowing by 3.4bn.

'We are committed to keeping taxes for working people as low as possible, which is why at last autumn's budget we protected working people's payslips and kept our promise not to raise the basic, higher or additional rates of income tax, employee national insurance or VAT.'

The possible changes to inheritance tax come after Sir Keir's popularity today sunk to its lowest level to date.

The Government's approval rating slipped to minus 55, according to other polling by YouGov.

Just 13 per cent of the public included in the survey said they approved of the Government's record since returning to power under Sir Keir last summer - the same percentage as the previous week.

But those who disapproved slipped by another percentage point, down to 68 per cent.

It meant the net approval rating lurched to a record low for this administration.

The weekly poll makes grim reading for Labour HQ, and follows a series of blows to Sir Keir's authority, including fresh accusations he has failed to get a hold of the small boats crisis, and claims he has presided over a 'two-tier' justice system.

He also had to deal with the resignation of his homelessness minister over a rental home row.

The YouGov data came after it was officially confirmed more than 50,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the English Channel since Labour won the 2024 general election.

Analysis claimed the milestone was reached in 401 days of the Starmer government, compared with 603 days for Rishi Sunak's administration, and more than 1,000 days under Boris Johnson's.

Liz Truss did not last long enough to reach the landmark, although a total of 10,532 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel during the 49 days of her premiership.
Mark Latham's ex-girlfriend told acquaintances her husband had died of bowel cancer and that she was a grieving widow - when nothing of the sort happened, the politician claims in an explosive court document.

In a sworn affidavit, filed in local court as part of restraining order proceedings Nathalie Matthews is bringing against Latham, the politician also claims Ms Matthews told him in a conversation in London in June 2023 that she had an interest in group sex and a 'fetish' for married men.

'In f***ng me, it shows how much they value it, risking their marriage,' she told him, Latham alleges in his affidavit.

During that same alleged conversation, held during a six-week trip to London, he also learned Ms Matthews ran an OnlyFans account under the name 'BondiC**S**t', Latham claimed in the court document.

Latham, who had recently left a 22-year marriage, said in the affidavit that the conversation in London was 'a lot to take in', adding it was 'wild and beyond my experience in life'.

That night, Latham decided to pursue what he called a 'situationship' with Ms Matthews because, he said, he wanted to embrace a 'modern approach of not being judgmental about a woman's morality' and to 'enjoy' himself before he passed away.

'At my age (62 when we met on 3 March 2023) my father had already dropped dead, and if that was going to happen to me one day, at least I was going to enjoy myself beforehand,' he wrote.

'So, I decided to see how it went for those six weeks, if our time together was compatible and happy, comforted by the fact that Nathalie spent a lot of time in Dubai, meaning if I needed a break from her intensity, I had that back in Sydney.

Mark Latham has detailed his decision to pursue a 'consensual' relationship with Ms Matthews during a night in London in a sworn affidavit (pictured together at Mimi's restaurant in Sydney's eastern suburbs)

Latham said Ms Matthews confessed to operating an OnlyFans account and enjoying 'group sex with multiple men'. Above, a screengrab from her OnlyFans account

'I saw 90 per cent benefit in our situation and ten per cent downside. 90 beat ten, as I rationalised it at 3-4am in Putney that night and eventually fell asleep.'

Elsewhere in the affidavit, Latham accused Ms Matthews of telling people her ex-husband had died of bowel cancer despite being alive to this day.

'When she went to Dubai in 2022, following a break in her time with (her husband), she told people there her husband had died of bowel cancer and she was in Dubai as a grieving widow,' he wrote.

Ms Matthew's ex-husband, who asked not to be named, told the Daily Mail he was not aware of the alleged claims, and that he had never suffered from bowel cancer. Ms Matthews declined to comment.

The affidavit was filed on July 31 in response to Ms Matthews' AVO application with the NSW Local Court.

Ms Matthews, 37, alleged that Latham, 64, inflicted 'a sustained pattern' of psychological, financial and emotional abuse against her for almost three years.

The former federal opposition leader has denied all abuse claims made by Ms Matthews, alleging the pair's relationship was consensual.

The relationship, which Latham said was founded on 'sexual pleasure', would devolve within the next nearly two years.

Ms Matthews conducts business in the UAE. In his affidavit, Latham said she admitted having relationships men in the Emirates

Also in the court document, Latham accused Ms Matthews of planning to meet a senior corporate figure for sex in May 2024.

'She called me on my mobile that day. I remember it well because she rarely called (preferring to message) and the Parliament was sitting.

'I took her call as I was walking down a corridor back towards my office.'

Daily Mail does not suggest Ms Matthews is dishonest nor that Latham's claims are true, simply that they have been made in an affidavit sworn by Latham.

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.

In the affidavit, Mr Latham also rebuffed the idea relationships should be entirely equal, claiming Ms Matthews enjoyed elements of 'consensual subservience'.

'A feature of today's politics is the woke feminist idealisation of the notion of Equality. This is a political theory, popularised by the #MeToo movement, that every aspect of every relationship must have equal power relations and practices.

Ms Matthews alleges Latham engaged in a 'sustained pattern' of abuse, claims Latham has flatly denied (pictured together)

'But as a colleague said to me last week, "It's not uncommon for relationships to be internally unequal, in fact there are plenty of them in private, it's just the way some people like it by choice".

'Nathalie was one of those people, enjoying elements of consensual subservience.'

Ms Matthews describes herself as the managing director of Skynet Global Logistics, a company involved in freight forwarding which has a presence in Sydney, Perth and Dubai.

Latham and Ms Matthews began dating in 2023 and ended their relationship earlier this year.

The matter will return to court next month.
'It's hard to believe they're alive,' cop said

A young motorist, whose sister launched a GoFundMe campaign after he was involved in a horror crash caused by the 'weather', has been charged with reckless driving.

International student Saksham Saini, 21, and two family members, a woman and man who were both 25, were travelling in the wet on the Ring Road at St Albans, Melbourne, at about 9pm on June 9.

His sister, Sargam, said the downpour caused Mr Saini's sedan to 'slip off' the road.

The car careened 150m down an embankment beside the road, splashed through a creek, and finally came to a rest under the M80.

Mr Saini and his passengers were rushed to hospital.

Sargam launched a crowdfunding page desperately pleading for help to raise money for her brother's recovery after he underwent significant surgery for his leg.

The fundraiser has raked in around $2,500 since it was launched on Sunday.

However, a Victoria Police spokeswoman confirmed to Daily Mail on Wednesday they had investigated the circumstances surrounding the crash and charged Mr Saini.

A 21-year-old international student and his family were rushed to hospital after a Hyundai i30 careered 150m down an embankment (pictured, the car at the scene)

'He has since been charged with several offences including with reckless conduct placing a person in danger of serious injury and driving whilst exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol,' she said.

He was bailed to appear before Sunshine Magistrate's Court in October.

At the time, Senior Constable Alistair McDonald said the crash was 'astounding'. 'It's hard to believe that actually all three of the occupants are still alive at the moment,' he said.

Police initially believed two vehicles were speeding along the road before the Hyundai veered down the embankment.

'I've seen some dashcam footage which shows this vehicle and another vehicle travelling at extremely high speeds on the ring road right before the collision occurs,' Sen Const McDonald said in June.

Sargam said her brother had surgery on his leg, which is now braced by metal rods.

The certificate four automotive student also received treatment for his lips and chin, which were battered in the crash, she said, while a blood clot in his left ear is causing hearing loss.

Saksham Saini (pictured) has been left with metal in his leg and a blood clot near his ear after the crash

Sargam said her brother is in 'constant pain' and is unable to work or support himself.

Victoria Police said his two passengers received non-life-threatening injuries.

Mr Saini is facing mounting bills and expenses, including tuition, while he recovers, his sister said.

'With no ability to earn an income for many months, this situation has become overwhelming,' she said.

'To make matters worse, the car involved in the accident was his, and it's now completely damaged.'

Sargam claimed to Daily Mail that her brother has yet to receive his charge sheet from Victoria Police.

However, that was disputed by Victoria Police. 'As the accused was charged and bailed, they would have received their charges sheet personally,' a spokeswoman said.
Patrice Pastor fell in love with Carmel-by-the-Sea as a child when he visited from his native Monaco.

The quaint coastal hideaway has a village feel, with narrow streets, courtyards and cottages - and very few traffic lights and sidewalks.

The billionaire businessman and property developer was so enchanted with the wealthy, picture-postcard corner of California that in 2015, he went on a buying spree.

He amassed a stunning real estate portfolio of fancy homes, hotels and restaurants in the town where Clint Eastwood was once mayor and where Doris Day retired.

But after 10 years, and an investment of more than $100 million, he has decided enough is enough.

Patrice has announced he is quitting the 'strange community' - where it is illegal to walk in high heels without a permit - because he is fed up with restrictions.

The final straw came last week when a downtown project hed spent six years developing hit yet another roadblockthis time after a last-minute appeal to the city council by a group of residents, despite already having approval from planners.

The decision left Pastor's 30,000-square-foot retail and apartment development on Dolores Street in limbo.

Carmel mayor Dale Byrne exclusively told the Daily Mail the latest pushback against Pastor reflects 'badly' on the charming town.

'Ninety percent of the people that have talked to me about it are furious because he's been doing good things for the community and he's a good guy,' he added.

Hollywood legends Joan Fontaine, Gene Hackman and Doris Day once called Carmel their home

Monaco-based billionaire Patrice Pastor (pictured in 2015) said in a statement of Carmel-by-the-Sea: 'It's time to leave this strange community, if you can call it a community'

The rattled tycoon wrote in an blunt statement to the Daily Mail: 'Following this latest City Council meeting it's clear that I need to reconsider my investment in Carmel.'

His explosive rebuke continued: 'We are not treated the same as everyone else, I suppose we are now at the point where we need to accept we are not wanted and draw the necessary conclusions.

'It's time to leave this strange community, if you can call it a community.'

The businessman fell in love with the playground for the uber-wealthy during childhood trips to the Monterey Peninsula.

The town, with just 4,000 inhabitants, is a favorite with celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Brad Pitt, Gigi Hadid and boyfriend Bradley Cooper, as well as former mayor and long-time resident Clint Eastwood who, at 95, still visits his local bar, The Hog's Breath Inn.

Pitt purchased a $40 million Pacific-view home there in 2022.

Monaco-based billionaire developer Patrice Pastor has amassed a $100 million real estate portfolio in Carmel

Carmel's fans include Taylor Swift and boyfriend Travis Kelce who visited Carmel last year

Plans to built the JB Pastor Project in downtown Carmel (shown) were thrown into disarray following a planning appeal on August 4 by 11 residents

Pastor purchased a unique home in Carmel designed by acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright for $22million

In April, Pastor shared a much different opinion when he told the Daily Mail: 'I love Carmel and am happy to have a home there.

'It is such a unique small town in America, a village really, with a soul and beautiful architecture.'

He pledged 'to protect Carmel's unique history and character' and said he would always be 'very careful with the community and the history.'

Carmel Mayor Dale Byrne told the Daily Mail that Pastor is doing 'doing good things for the community and he's a good guy'

But on August 4, the city council held a special meeting to consider an appeal filed by attorney Krista Ostoich on behalf of 11 residents.

The council agreed there were parking and landscaping concerns with Pastor's project.

Two other council members, including Mayor Byrne, had recused themselves.

Ostoic, who filed the appeal, said her clients want to maintain the 'unique village character' of Carmel, which includes 'quaint buildings' and courtyards.

'The process really worked here,' she said, adding the council 'applied the right standards.'

The decision to appeal had nothing to do with Pastor personally, said Ostoic, who called him a 'nice guy.' A further hearing is scheduled for September 8.

Backers of the project, however, point out that 'thousands' of hours over six years have already been spent studying the plans.

There were five design changes to win approval.

Mayor Byrne, 70, blamed 'two or three people' for blocking Pastor's downtown development.

'He did everything the city asked him to do,' he said. 'I spoke with him last Friday and they're just p***ed. Anyone would be.'

The complex would benefit the town with cheaper accommodation and 'reasonable rates for long-term leases.'

Despite measuring just one square mile, the city has more than 40 art galleries, 60 restaurants and 40 hotels.

Former residents include Hollywood legends Joan Fontaine, Gene Hackman and Doris Day.

Brad Pitt, pictured with girlfriend Ines de Ramon on June 23 at the F1 movie premiere in London, purchased a $40 million Pacific-view home in Carmel here in 2022 after falling in love with the area

Despite measuring just one square mile, the city has more than 40 art galleries, 60 restaurants and 40 hotels

Carmel realtor Tim Allen described Pastor as a 'kind and wonderful friend,' and added: 'The gentleman has done more for the city than most people'

The Eastwood Building, once owned by movie star Clint Eastwood, is part of Pastor's portfolio

The luxury ocean-view Carmel Beach Hotel, owned by Pastor, is walking distance to the stunning white sands of the town's famous beach

Fabulous properties owned by Pastor, purchased through his Esperanza Carmel company, include the L'Auberge Carmel hotel, the Carmel Beach Hotel, the Eastwood Building, the Hog's Breath Building, an iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home and the Rocky Point Restaurant as well as many more.

Pastor has also been combating strict planning rules to rebuild another site close to Delores Street known as 'The Pit,' which would provide 25 apartments to rent and retail space.

Byrne said 'it would be a disaster for the city' if Pastor walked away with the project unfinished.

He praised the tycoon for his investments. 'We need hotels, housing and parking - parking is a disaster here,' admitted Byrne. 'We're chasing away someone who might actually help dig our way out of this.'

Toby Rowland-Jones, 70, has lived in Carmel for 13 years and described Pastor as a 'very likable guy.

Toby Rowland-Jones, pictured, has lived in Carmel for 13 years and called Pastor a 'galvanizing' figure in the town

'He came here with the very best of intentions. Carmel, obviously, is a seaside resort, much like Monaco, although we don't have quite the same grandiosity - certainly no casinos.

'He's been very galvanizing. Some people really, really don't like him and some say he's fantastic.'

Rowland-Jones added that Pastor 'means well' but has often 'been stymied' by the planning process.

Pastor is a client of realtor Tim Allen who has handled his property acquisitions in Carmel.

The two are now friends and Allen visits the Pastor at his home in Monaco.

'Patrice is a kind and wonderful friend,' Allen, 64, told the Daily Mail. 'The gentleman has done more for the city than most people. Patrice is upset, and I'm upset.'

His friend has 'improved' all the properties he purchased and he is 'what our community needs.' The sidelined JB Pastor Project is 'a good project for our community.'

'I can't believe they did this,' commented Allen. 'The way he's been treated by a very small group of people is unbelievable. He feels hurt. He's really disappointed and so am I.

'He's a wonderful, kind man that's been treated worse than anyone I've ever seen in our town. It's horrible. He's been patient but now he's just like, 'This is crazy.'

Allen described the opponents as a 'small group of self-interested people.'

Born and raised in Carmel, he warned ominously: 'Our community is dying. Our infrastructure is old. We don't have enough income based upon our model to even support people retiring.

'We'll go broke in probably five years. So we need to reinvent the city.'
As she sits in prison awaiting sentencing for her part in the death of her newborn baby daughter, Constance Marten will have plenty of time to dwell on some history.

Her grandmother, Mary Marten, was a goddaughter of the Queen Mother, and her father, Napier, was a page to Queen Elizabeth II.

But you do not need to go much further back to lurch from royal favour to some truly scandalous behaviour.

Marten's great-grandfather, the 3rd Lord Alington, was said to be the most dissolute man ever to enter the House of Lords.

Also called Napier, he indulged in wild same-sex orgies while keeping a mistress old enough to be his mother.

He spent money like water, encouraged drug taking and illegal behaviour, and was constantly searching out novel ways to slake his prodigious sexual thirst.

Napier Senior perhaps found a mentor in the naughty King Edward VII, who came to stay at Crichel with his mistress Alice Keppel.

Napier  Naps to his friends - sent his girlfriend, the oversexed (or, as she described herself, 'ambisextrous') actress Tallulah Bankhead, to seduce the boys at his old school, Eton. One was just 14.

Aristocrat Constance Marten is in prison awaiting sentencing for her part in the death of her baby daughter

Marten's great-grandfather, the 3rd Lord Alington, was said to be the most dissolute man ever to enter the House of Lords, writes CHRISTOPHER WILSON. His lover was the actress Tallulah Bankhead (right)

The Home Secretary, William Joynson-Hicks, ordered MI5 to investigate 'this extremely immoral woman' - but the school refused to co-operate, and the boys in question were expelled for 'motoring offences' (Bankhead had taken them to a hotel in her car).

Bankhead, a lively bisexual, introduced herself to Alington with her famous line, 'I'm a lesbian. What do you do?'

What didn't he do? Invited to a ball in Paris, he managed to shake that unshockable city with his behaviour.

His lover would later say of him: 'I was irked by his nonchalance, his cynicism, his flashes of cruelty.

'He wasn't good looking, he had an almost repulsive mouth, but he lived recklessly.

'He scorned the conventions, loved to gamble and, when it pleased him, had great wit and charm.'

In his book The Fatal Englishman, author Sebastian Faulks related one particular story that revealed Naps' character in a flash.

'One of the most remorseless pleasure-seekers in Europe, Naps went dressed as the Sun King, his costume consisting of a number of rays attached to his gilded skin.

'As the evening progressed, he gave away the rays, one by one, until even his Louis XIV mask and his golden stockings were gone.

Despite his sexual preferences Naps married  not Tallulah Bankhead, though they talked about it  but Lady Mary Ashley-Cooper (above), daughter of the Earl of Shaftesbury. Their only child was Mary Anna  Constance Marten's grandmother. Above: Lady Alington with her baby daughter, Mary Anna, in 1929

'When he returned to the Ritz Hotel at dawn the old ladies in the Place Vendome were taking their poodles out for an early morning walk.

'The manager of the hotel rushed out to wrap him in a blanket  but not before Alington, on the steps of the hotel, had removed his golden fig-leaf and presented it to the Ritz as a souvenir of his night out.'

That sounded like fun, but there was a much darker side  in part, perhaps, because his anguished elder brother Gerard, who should have inherited the title and lands, committed suicide on Armistice Day in 1918.

He had been grotesquely wounded in the first months of the war and paralysed from the waist down. Throughout his tragic last days, his father bullied him unmercifully.

'The whole family is vicious,' wrote the diarist and MP Henry 'Chips' Channon.

'Too aristocratic ever to feel the fetters of position or morals or standards. They love low-life and sexual experiments.'

Quite as unruly was Alington's sister Lois - a drug-addled, needy, woman who flaunted her royal connections but was constantly in need of money to feed her habit.

She became the mistress of Reggie Pembroke, a crusty old earl and the owner of nearby Wilton House.

Martens grandmother, Mary Sturt (fifth from left) with the future Queen (fourth from left) and Princess Margaret (second from left) in 1935

Constance Marten's aunt, Victoria Marten (right), with Princess Anne in 1960

Although he was old enough to be her father, she sponged off him and encouraged him to be her sugar daddy.

She then had a fling with Prince George, Duke of Kent, before becoming engaged to a number of different men.

When she finally married, to the exclusively homosexual Viscount Tredegar in a swish ceremony at the Brompton Oratory, it was said there wasn't a single person in the congregation that the couple hadn't slept with.

Back to Naps though. Chips Channon confessed he too had slept with him.

'Unbelievably handsome,' he recalled, 'with a smile that nobody has ever resisted.

'He carried the world before him but he was not quite human.

'He was a centaur, a satyr without morals, stability or ambition. He was an enchanting companion but one who sadly squandered his charm, his health, his fortune, and his time.

'He could never rest, drank all night, was surrounded by sycophants, and went to bed with anyone and everyone he met.'

Marten as an infant with her mother, Virginie

Bankhead would later say of her lover: 'I was irked by his nonchalance, his cynicism, his flashes of cruelty'

Bankhead, a lively bisexual, introduced herself to Alington with her famous line, 'I'm a lesbian. What do you do?'

Despite his sexual preferences Naps married  not Tallulah Bankhead, though they talked about it  but Lady Mary Ashley-Cooper, daughter of the Earl of Shaftesbury.

Their only child, Mary Anna  Constance Marten's grandmother  inherited Crichel, which then passed to her son, the younger Napier.

Though outwardly more conventional than his namesake grandfather, it was in 1996 - when Constance was just nine years old - that this Napier had a so-called awakening.

A voice in his head told him to quit his Crichel inheritance, shave his head, and fly to Australia.

Leaving his small children behind at home, he adopted a life of whale-watching and spiritual discovery.

He became a tree-surgeon and later admitted, 'I do recall having a recognition of myself that I was exhibiting some sort of courage, but of course, in many other people's minds I was exhibiting some sort of cowardice.'

He recollected an out-of-body experience on a clifftop, and how an encounter with whales made him cry 'almost nonstop' for seven days.

'I found myself looking down at my sleeping body,' he said.

In 2009, Marten posted Classic Toots on a photograph of her holding an iced coffee in the Egyptian desert

Marten complained that her wealthy family didnt like her lover Mark Gordon, and claimed they used their wealth and influence to get social services to intervene to take away their children

Marten pictured during a police interview after her arrest

Constance Marten had a gilded upbringing and the brightest of futures, but chose a life of isolation and squalor

Marten embraces the New Age vibe at the Burning Man festival in Nevada in 2012

'The next thing I know, I'm flying out into the ocean into the dark waters and swimming with the whales.

'I'm being pulled along by them and there is this conversation going on... it was a complete clearing out, a transmission of energy.

'These days of expansion unfortunately can't be repeated, but when one's in it, it is the most exciting part of your life.'

Constance's father claims he does not know how long his exile lasted.

He eventually returned to the UK, but not to his old life at Crichel House - he lived in a lorry, worked as a chef, then trained in a form of head massage called craniosacral therapy.

He passed his estate on to his eldest son Max, who was studying environmental science and geography at Oxford Brookes University at the time.

In 2013, Max sold the house and 400 acres of its land to American hedge fund billionaire Richard Chilton for a reported 34 million.

All this high life and big money is very far from a cramped cell in a Surrey women's prison where prisoner A9624X Constance Marten now awaits sentencing on charges of manslaughter by gross negligence, concealing the birth of a child, perverting the course of justice by not reporting her death, and child cruelty.
On the latest episode of the Mail's Psychology of a Serial Killer podcast, two medical crime experts analyse why the case against suspected mass murderer Dr John Bodkin Adams failed to deliver a guilty verdict.

Bodkin Adams was a wealthy Eastbourne GP who, between 1946 and 1956, was named as a beneficiary in 131 patient wills - inheriting everything from cash and furniture to two Rolls-Royce cars.

Modern historians believe Bodkin Adams may have killed as many as 250 patients, rivalling even Harold Shipman's estimated victim count.

Listen to The Psychology of a Serial Killer below or by clicking here.

Once his patients agreed to write him into their wills, Bodkin Adams would proscribe them grossly excessive amounts of opiates until they eventually succumbed to overdose.

Despite police linking 163 suspicious deaths to his practice, the courts were never able to secure a conviction against him.

A murder charge was brought against Bodkin Adams after the death of an elderly patient in 1956.

What followed was Britain's longest-running murder trial to that date, taking place at The Old Bailey.

Dr Harry Brunjes, a police surgeon, and Dr Andrew Johns, a forensic psychiatrist, examine the evidence and explain why the prosecution's case failed - despite Bodkin Adams' own lawyers calling him 'pig-headed and dishonest'.

Modern historians believe Bodkin Adams may have killed as many as 250 patients, rivalling even Harold Shipman's estimated victim count

Bodkin Adams was a wealthy GP who, between 1946 and 1956, was named as a beneficiary in 131 patient wills - inheriting everything from cash and furniture to two Rolls-Royce cars

Dr Harry Brunjes (right), a police surgeon, and Dr Andrew Johns (left), a forensic psychiatrist, examine the evidence and explain why the prosecution's case failed. Listen here

The Trial of 'Britain's first medical murderer'

Edith Morrell, a patient of Bodkin Adams, died after being given huge doses of morphine and heroin.

In her will, Morrell had left Bodkin Adams a large sum of money, a Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost and several pieces of expensive furniture.

On top of this, friends and staff of Morrell testified that the socialite wasn't in any pain, so there was no medical reason for the doctor to prescribe her opiates.

On the eve of the trial, Bodkin Adams looked dead to rights, as Dr Brunjes explained.

He said: 'The lead medical expert for the prosecution told the court the clear and only intention of Bodkin Adams was to terminate life.

'The most damning evidence came from the nurses who were looking after Edith Morrell.

Despite police linking 163 suspicious deaths to his practice, the courts were never able to secure a conviction against him

On the eve of the trial, Bodkin Adams looked dead to rights

Adams would die in 1983, at the age of 84, in Eastbourne. Even in his eighties, he was still receiving legacy payments from patients' wills

'They recalled administering drugs but then stated Bodkin Adams also gave frequent further injections, which he took from his own doctor's bag.'

The defence uncovered the nurse's logbooks, which appeared to contradict the nurses' testimony.

There was no record of these additional injections given to Morrell and the defence relentlessly exploited this inconsistency in the prosecution's case.

The prosecution's case was further undermined when a civil servant testified he had overheard three of the nurses gossiping about the case on a train - raising serious questions about their credibility.

Bodkin Adams himself was never called to the stand. His defence lawyer would later reveal over lunch at the Savoy that this was because he considered the doctor 'dishonest, loquacious, pig-headed and a risk'.

In the end, it took just 44 minutes for the jury to deliver a shocking not guilty verdict after what had been Britain's longest murder trial to date.

'Adams famously stumbled from court with tears running down his face', Dr Harry Brujnes explained.

'He told reporters: I was never in any doubt of the verdict; I prayed to God every day.

'Questions remain: the all-important logbooks were initially listed in the files of the Director of Public Prosecutions but then disappeared.

'Did anyone know of their existence before the trial? Why was it decided they were not relevant and then disposed of? Was police procedure at fault?'

The mysteries surrounding the case remain unsolved.

Adams would die in 1983, at the age of 84, in Eastbourne. Even in his eighties, he was still receiving legacy payments from patients' wills.

To hear a dramatic retelling of the Bodkin Adams trial, search for Psychology of a Serial Killer now, wherever you get your podcasts.
Police forces have been told to release a suspects ethnicity in high profile cases under landmark new guidelines.

Forces will disclose the ethnicity and nationality of a suspect when it could reduce the risk of disorder, there are high levels of false information about an incident or there is significant public interest.

Decisions on whether to release the information after a suspect is charged will be made by senior investigating officers and communications chiefs at the individual force.

The new interim guidance from the National Police Chiefs Council follows a series of controversies in which police were criticised for a lack of transparency over the ethnicity of suspects.

Conversations about updating guidelines began following last summers disorder, which was sparked by the Southport murders of three young girls by Axel Rudakubana.

At the time, Merseyside Police were criticised for releasing scant information about the teenage suspect, and online speculation and disinformation took hold.

More recently, the Mail on Sunday revealed last week that Afghan asylum seekers Ahmad Mulakhil and Mohammad Kabir, both 23, had been charged over the alleged rape of a schoolgirl in Nuneaton, after sources told the paper their ethnicity had been kept from the public to avoid inflaming community tensions.

We saw during last summers disorder, as well as in several recent high-profile cases, what the major, real-world consequences can be from what information police release into the public domain, deputy chief constable Sam de Reya, of the National Police Chiefs Council, said.

We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels.

Riots flared in Southport last summer following the murders of three young girls by Axel Rudakubana

The disorder spread across the country, including to Sunderland (pictured), fuelled by online misinformation

Disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum. It is good police work for us to fill this vacuum with the facts about issues of wider public interest.

Our aim with this guidance is to provide greater consistency with how we report this information.

Being as fair, consistent and transparent as we can will improve confidence in policing as the definitive source of this information - making all our communities safer in the process.

Police forces will not verify a suspects immigration status, which is information held by the Home Office.

Previously, when a suspect is detained, police forces in England and Wales provide just their age, as well as where and when they were arrested.

Following a charge, the name, date of birth and address is usually provided.

In cases when there is a long time between an arrest and charge, forces will exercise their own discretion over whether a suspects ethnicity is released.

The guidance, which has been sent to all forces in England and Wales and comes into immediate effect, affects suspects who have been charged with a crime - not just following an arrest.

In May, Merseyside Police acted quickly to confirm that they had arrested a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area after a car ploughed into crowds during the Liverpool FC victory parade.

The move marked a shift in tactics by the same force criticised over its handling of information about the Southport killer, and was a clear attempt to eliminate inaccurate speculation on social media that the car driven at Liverpool fans was linked to migrants or an Islamic terror attack.

In May, Merseyside Police acted quickly to confirm that they had arrested a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area after a car ploughed into crowds during the Liverpool FC victory parade. This was part of a strategy to counter misinformation about the incident being part of a terror attack. Paul Doyle (pictured in court sketch) is facing trial in November charged with seven offences including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm with intent

Sir Andy Marsh, chief executive of the College of Policing, said the interim guidelines were a 'substantial step by the police towards being as open and transparent as possible'

And Sir Andy Marsh, chief executive of the College of Policing, said it was the correct decision and was an example of a force sensibly releasing information for a policing purpose.

That was a good decision and good practice by Merseyside Police, he said.

Forces are empowered to release information in this way if it serves a policing purpose.

Forces would not be able to release information not held by the police, such as immigration status and religion, he clarified.

These guidelines are about suspects who have been charged but this is a substantial step by the police towards being as open and transparent as possible, in a way that doesnt affect the right to a fair trial, so we can maintain public trust, tackle disinformation and minimise community tensions that arise out of that.

What we cant do is release everyones information that we dont own, that isnt verified.

And the release of this information must serve a policing purpose, not purely to satisfy the curiosity of people who would like to know.

The Crime Reporters Association and the Society of Editors have long fought for greater openness and transparency from policing.

An independent watchdog concluded in March that failure to share basic facts about Rudakubana led to dangerous fictions which helped to spark the riots.

Deputy chief constable of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Sam de Reya, warned that 'disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum'

A Home Office spokesman said it welcomed the new interim guidance from the police.

The public, and police forces themselves, want greater clarity on when, why and how information is released and the legitimate and compelling reasons it may need to be withheld, they said.

The Home Office will support that effort by authorising the release of relevant accompanying immigration information in future cases, where it is appropriate to do so, and where the police have requested it. All cases will of course take account of consultation with the police and CPS.

The government also asked the Law Commission at the end of February to speed up the elements of its review around the law of contempt in relation to what can be said publicly ahead of a trial.

The government also asked the Law Commission at the end of February to speed up the elements of its review around the law of contempt in relation to what can be said publicly ahead of a trial.
The difference in survival rates between different types of cancer is bigger than ever while overall improvements have slowed, a study reveals.

The proportion of UK patients surviving ten years or more ranges from 97 per cent for testicular cancer to just 4.3 per cent for pancreatic cancer.

Survival for all cancers combined has increased dramatically since the 1970s but the gains were almost three-times faster in the early 2000s than the early 2010s.

For a patient diagnosed in 2018, the likelihood of surviving cancer for at least a decade stands at 49.8 per cent compared to 23.7 per cent in the 1970s, researchers at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine found.

Remarkably, the one year rate in 1971 was not even as high as the ten year rate in 2018.

Breast, bowel and cervical cancer are among the cancer types which have seen large improvements in survival - partly due to effective screening programmes which can diagnose the disease at an earlier stage, when it is easier to treat.

Innovations in treatment and improved awareness of symptoms have also contributed to better outcomes for many cancers, Cancer Research UK said.

However, remarkable progress for some cancer types has left others trailing behind, as survival for the most lethal cancers has hardly improved at all.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK

Oesophagus, stomach, lung and brain cancer survival has only increased by a small amount in the past 50 years and remains below 20 per cent.

Meanwhile, for pancreatic cancer, survival after ten years is still less than 5 per cent, according to findings published in The Lancet Regional Health  Europe.

These forms of cancer are harder to detect and treat, which is why targeted research in this area is vital, experts say.

Pressures on cancer services in the UK, resulting in longer waits for diagnosis and treatment, could be contributing to the overall slow-down in progress, they add.

Researchers analysed long-term trends in cancer survival for adults across England and Wales from 1971 to 2018.

Using records from the National Disease Registration Service for England and the Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit, experts estimated net survival for up to 10 years after diagnosis for around 10.8 million people.

In the five years from 2000/01 to 2005/06, the 10-year cancer survival index - an indicator of overall survival across all types of the disease- rose by 4 per cent, from 41.2 per cent to 45.2 per cent.

But between 2010/11 and 2015/16, the rise was 1.4 per cent, from 47.9 per cent to 49.3 per cent.

Survival for all cancers combined has increased dramatically since the 1970s

Researchers say a national cancer plan is essential to bring cancer survival trends back towards the best in the world.

The Government launched a call for evidence to help shape a national cancer plan in February.

The blueprint aims to outline actions to transform how the disease is treated in a bid to reduce deaths.

Michel Coleman, a professor of epidemiology and statistics at LSHTM, said: Since I began my career in cancer research, Ive seen substantial increases in survival for most types of cancer.

Our understanding of cancer biology has expanded, effective screening programmes have been introduced, and new treatments have been developed.

Allowing this trend to stall will have devastating consequences.

The National Cancer Plan is a chance to improve NHS cancer pathways and reap the benefits of new research  the Government must take it.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, which funded the study, said: Thanks to research, most patients today are far more likely to survive their cancer than at any point in the past.

But the reality is that this progress is slowing  and for some cancers, it never got going in the first place.

The upcoming National Cancer Plan for England must include commitments to spot more cancers earlier, as well as backing research into new treatments so that each patient, regardless of their diagnosis, can hope for more moments with the people they love.

Cancer Research UK is calling for the national cancer plan to slash waiting times for diagnosis and treatment, saying some patients face unacceptable delays.

The plan should also improve early diagnosis of cancer, with plans to boost participation in existing screening programmes and a commitment to rolling out lung cancer screening fully in England by 2029.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: We are prioritising cancer care as we turn around more than a decade of neglect of our NHS.

Were already seeing progress, with 95,000 more people having cancer diagnosed or ruled out within 28 days between July 2024 and May 2025, compared to the same period the previous year.

The National Cancer Plan will set out how we will improve survival rates further and address the variation between different cancer types.
As crunch talks were underway between the United States and China in Donald Trump's first term, Xi Jinping's negotiating team used every trick in the book to unsettle the American side.

Shortly before a key meeting took place, as the U.S. team was about to set out from their embassy in Beijing, the Chinese delivered a follow-up to a carefully prepared negotiating document for the talks. It was in Chinese, without an English translation.

Then, when Trump's negotiating team got to the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse for the meeting, they discovered there were one too few chairs for them. One of the U.S. negotiators had to leave the room.

'We're sitting in a secure facility, a team of tens of people that have come over from the U.S., and we looked at the document they provided. It was in Chinese, it was not at all responsive to the draft we sent before travelling to Beijing,' Mitchell Silk, former Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, told the Daily Mail.

Silk shared his insights on Trump's diplomatic tactics ahead of the president's historic showdown with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

'They completely disregarded our document. They delivered up something that they wanted to use for the negotiations,' Silk said of the Chinese ahead of the 2019 summit with Trump.

In his upcoming book 'A Seat at the Table,' Silk, who speaks two dialects of Chinese, recounts how he quickly translated the document in the car en route to the talks with Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin.

President Donald Trump, left, meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, June 29, 2019

When they got there Mnuchin made it clear the Americans weren't meeting for the sake of it.

'He was just very short and very simple, he was perfectly gracious in, thanking the Vice Premier for his kind and warm welcome. He acknowledged receipt of the document, and he just took our document, waved it around, and said, thank you but I think we're going to be using our document for these discussions, and that's exactly what we did,' said Silk.

'There was no funny business. There were no games. We were there to do business, and we weren't having any of it.'

He added :'If it had been another administration, another time, and this is probably what was happening in these endless, meaningless meetings prior to Trump, somebody would have said, well, you know, maybe we should we use their document? There was none of that. Psychologically, we weren't having it, and we made that very clear.'

Mitchell Silk reveals how to negotiate trade deals in China in his new book

During the talks, which led to Trump's first trade deal with China in 2020, every little detail of protocol had been worked out over preceding weeks, including who was going to sit where.

But when everybody sat down, right before the then Chinese Vice Premier Liu He spoke, it was clear that there was one chair missing.

Someone on the American side had to leave the room, and one of the dedicated career civil servants took the fall.

Later, outside of the main room, Silk engaged with the head of protocol from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It emerged that the Chinese felt snubbed because the Vice Premier had not been granted an Oval Office audience when he was in Washington just weeks prior.

'Our understanding was the chair was their way of getting back at us, rather petty,' said Silk.

Mitchell Silk, former Assistant Secretary to the Treasury

Ultimately, the head of the Chinese central bank, Yi Gang, was walking by and Silk told him: 'Mr. Governor, when you are next in Washington, please join me at my house for a dinner. I will put out a lavish spread for you with the finest of drink and the finest of food, and you can have as many chairs as you like.'

The American team got their chair back.

It was yet another example of the psychological games that Trump will face in his upcoming tariff negotiations with the Chinese.

This week, President Trump extended a trade truce with China for another 90 days, delaying a dangerous showdown between the worlds two biggest economies.

The previous deadline was set to expire at 12:01am on Tuesday.

Had that happened the U.S. could have ratcheted up taxes on Chinese imports from an already high 30 percent, and Beijing could have responded by raising retaliatory levies on U.S. exports to China.

Containers at the port in Nanjing, in China's eastern Jiangsu province on August 12, 2025, a day before President Donald Trump ordered a delay in the reimposition of higher tariffs

The pause buys time for the two countries to work out some of their differences, perhaps clearing the way for a summit later this year between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and it has been welcomed by the U.S. companies doing business with China.

Silk said the key to reaching an agreement was to 'stay the course with maximum pressure.'

Since the inauguration Trump had shown himself to be a 'master at three dimensional chess.'

Key has been the use of executive power to deploy tariffs as leverage.

'He's come out swinging, using tariffs imposed under executive order, so presidential authority, as an economic weapon, and he started that literally in the first days of the administration,' said Silk.

'The heavy and the quick action certainly rattled the markets, but I believe that the president was playing for long-term economic leverage.'

People walk past an Apple store in Beijing, China as Trump announces a 90-day extension of the truce on reciprocal tariffs between the US and China

The tariffs have been 'much sharper, they're more targeted, and they're higher than before.'

Behind that was a strategy to 'clear the decks' of other trading partners, securing quick deals with them, so that he could focus on China.

'My take is that the initial move was designed to get initial action out of a certain set of countries (including the UK, EU, Japan and South Korea), and push a second group of countries further down the road, try to pick them off one by one.'

He added: 'And then you've got the most difficult countries, and the number one, without a close second in that group, is China.'

Realistically, the China negotiation is probably a 12-to-18 month process, he said.

Key will be dealings between Trump and Xi.

'It's critical, and it's important, but in my view, it's a question of timing,' said Silk. 'One cannot expect there to be daily phone calls.'

But at critical pressure points, perhaps every every other month, it is 'critically important that the two of them are on the line.'

He said: 'Probably that will happen relatively infrequently, but enough that that the president will have a channel to be able to clear a final issue or a final hurdle or two.'
At times tragic, at others tawdry, the turbulent history of the Biden clan was one that the mainstream US media was long happy to ignore.

But even on those occasional moments when the family couldn't avoid unflattering attention, the one consolation for other Bidens was that at least they weren't Hunter.

With his crack addiction, passion for prostitutes and internet porn, and his illegal gun purchase, there was a family scion who could be relied on to hog the headlines and leave his relatives in peace.

And that was particularly true of his half-sister Ashley whose own issues  including chronic drug abuse, sex addiction, extra-marital affairs and becoming 'hyper-sexualized' in her youth  were revealed in a stolen diary that, while jaw-dropping, only briefly made waves in 2020 before the world's attention was once more back on the squalid saga of Hunter.

Now, however, Ashley is in the spotlight once more after revealing she is ending her 13-year marriage to plastic surgeon Dr Howard Krein.

In the grand tradition of the Bidens, her announcement was bizarre.

After filing divorce paperwork in a Philadelphia court, she celebrated by posting a string of freedom-themed songs and inspirational quotes on Instagram.

They included video footage - since deleted - of her walking through a park and giving a thumbs-up, to the tune of Beyonce's song 'Freedom'.

Then-Vice President Joe and Jill Biden with daughter Ashley and their son-in-law Dr Howard Krein in Singapore in 2013

Ashley also reposted a quote that read: 'New life, new beginnings means new boundaries. New ways of being that won't look or sound like they did before.'

This was accompanied by a burst of Lauryn Hill's song Freedom Time.

Ashley also deployed another inspirational quote  'let your smile change the world, but don't let the world change your smile'  but wrongly attributed it to reggae star Bob Marley.

It has yet to emerge what prompted the couple's split  although Dr Krein was still sufficiently close to Ashley last year that he was with her in the Oval Office as President Biden dramatically announced his decision that July to abandon his re-election bid.

However, cuts forward to November, when the Bidens gathered for Thanksgiving in Nantucket, he was not in a group photo  and Ashley was not wearing her wedding ring. They have no children.

Ashley Blazer Biden, now 44, began dating Dr Krein, who is 58, in 2010 after they were introduced by her late brother Beau.

He proposed to her on a cliff in Big Sur, California, in late 2011 after reportedly getting her father's permission.

Biden, who was then vice president, told People magazine: 'This is the right guy. And he's getting a helluva woman.'

A practicing Catholic, Ashley married the Jewish doctor in an interfaith ceremony at a Catholic church in Delaware in 2012.

The couple then flew largely under the radar as they lived in Philadelphia where she was a social worker and he worked at a local hospital.

Ashley and Dr Krein married in her parents' backyard in June 2012. They are now divorcing after 13 years

Although she had little involvement in her father's campaign she was, inevitably, wheeled out come election time last year.

As the only child of former First Lady Jill Biden, and only living daughter of Joe (whose other daughter by first wife Neilia died aged 13 months in a car crash in 1972 along with her mother) Ashley was always going to be politically valuable  chiefly in providing the obligatory touching family anecdotes and tributes that, in the circumstances, were much better coming from her than from troubled Hunter.

Her other half-brother, Beau, had died of brain cancer in 2015, leaving a widow, Hallie, who went on to have a relationship with Hunter and develop her own crack cocaine addiction.

In a speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Ashley really pulled out all the stops as she brought 'Dad' to tears after introducing him  astonishingly  as 'one of the most consequential leaders ever in history'.

Ashley recalled how 'OG Girl dad' Biden had become 'very emotional' at her wedding reception in her parents' backyard.

'I thought that I would be a mess, but he was the one crying and I was the one who had to comfort him,' she said.

So far so good; Ashley certainly looked like the wholesome antidote to her troubled half-brother.

However, disaster would soon strike for her public image

Back before the 2020 election, Ashley's private diary had been stolen and sold for $40,000 to the conservative activist group Project Veritas.

At first, the Biden family didn't explicitly deny the diary's authenticity but  as with the sordid leaked contents of Hunter's infamous laptop  allowed some media outlets to speculate that it may be fake and another cynical attempt to damage the Biden name.

James O'Keefe, the founder of Project Veritas, said they never published the diary's contents because Biden's lawyers refused to confirm it was genuine.

Snopes, a fact-checking website, initially assessed the contents of the diary as 'unproven' and only changed it to 'true' four years later.

Although its contents were later published by another website, the diary got little media traction.

In the event, it seems Ashley and her family got off very lightly as the diary's contents were at times deeply revealing.

In the tome  whose entry dates ran from January to September of 2019 when Ashley was in her late 30s and in various drug addiction programs  she revealed she'd been in out-patient rehab in Florida and occasionally relapsing at the time.

She also wrote near the beginning of the diary about her sex addiction.

'I have always been boy crazy,' she wrote. 'Hyper-sexualized @ a young age... I remember somewhat being sexualized with [her first cousin] Caroline; I remember having sex with friends @ a young age; showers w/ my dad (probably not appropriate).'

Two months later, she turned to drugs, writing: 'I relapsed. F***ing again. The difference this time around was that I told Elizabeth, Mom + Dad this morning. Mom + Dad worried but incredibly supportive. I am so lucky to have them on my side.'

But four months after that, she revealed her continued drug abuse had left her on the brink of financial ruin and reduced her father in tears.

'My dad cried on the phone saying he has the debate in a week + 'now has to worry about you',' she wrote in an entry for July 2019.

'Maybe he knows what he is doing + it's worked but my feelings of guilt often are overwhelming.'

The diary also detailed how she was having serious problems in her marriage.

'Here I am talking about another man when I am married! It all feels strange,' she wrote in February 2019.

'Started hanging out with a new guy It's been refreshing to be able to kiss another man.'

Biden and Ashley at a drinks reception in 2016 in Washington, DC

Then-Senator Biden proudly holds his daughter Ashley, age 6. His son Hunter, age 17, stands by their side

Six-year-old Ashley Biden with her father in 1987

Just as her half-brother Hunter carelessly forgot to collect his telltale laptop from a computer repair shop, Ashley had left the diary in a small house near Palm Beach, Florida, where she'd been staying after coming out of rehab.

It was later found by Aimee Harris, who stayed in the same property and sold it to Project Veritas.

Although news reports were claiming the diary was genuine as early as 2021, it was only last year that Ashley herself admitted it was real.

In a statement to the court over the sentencing of Harris for the theft, Ashley described it as 'my personal private journal' containing her 'innermost' and 'stream-of-consciousness thoughts' which, she claimed, had been 'distorted'.

Ashley added: 'I will forever have to deal with the fact that my personal journal can be viewed online.'

Harris was sentenced to a month in prison and three months of home confinement.

In fact, the diary's publication wasn't the first time that Ashley's problems with drug and alcohol abuse had been revealed.

In 2009, the New York Post reported that she'd been arrested for possession of marijuana in 1999, when she was a student at Tulane University in New Orleans where she was regarded as a 'party girl'. She was never prosecuted.

In 2002, she was arrested for allegedly obstructing police officers trying to break up a bar fight in Chicago. The charges were dropped.

The Post said it had also been approached by someone claiming to be a friend of Ashley offering to sell the newspaper a hidden-camera video showing her snorting cocaine. The Post said it declined to buy the footage.

President Biden has reportedly confessed to friends about feeling guilty over Hunter and Ashley's addiction plights and frets continually about them relapsing.

They in turn were determined not to be the reason he didn't run again for president and urged him to stand last year.

Of course, they no longer have to worry about that. But the Bidens must now contend with the dissolution of a marriage  Ashley's  that once provided one of the few bright sparks in a crushingly dark family history.
BBC star Jay Blades appeared in court this morning via video link charged with two counts of rape.

Blades was listed at Telford Magistrates Court under his full name of Jason Blades and spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.

The television presenter appeared on a video link wearing linkwearing a blue suit, white shirt and dark polka dot tie and animal-print spectacles.

The 55-year-old television presenter has separately been charged with coercively controlling his ex-wife Lisa-Marie Zbozen, 43.

The hearing lasted six minutes and Blades was granted conditional bail by District Judge Joseph O'Connor.

The judge told him: 'Mr Blades this case can only be dealt with at the Crown Court.'

He will appear next at Shrewsbury Crown Court on September 10.

West Mercia Police confirmed that Blades, a father of three, had been charged with rape earlier this month.

The Repair Shop star Blades was originally charged last September with a single count of controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship between January 1 2023 and September 12 2024.

BBC presenter Jay Blades is pictured in his trademark flat cap arriving at Worcester Crown Court for a hearing last October

Blades and estranged wife Lisa Marie Zbozen, who he is accused of coercively controlling

Blades in a BBC publicity picture on the set of The Repair Shop

Filming on the new series of the BBC One show - in which members of the public bring their treasured possessions and heirlooms to be fixed - began without him the same month.

At the time, furniture restorer Blades, of Claverley, Shropshire, said he was taking a break to 'take stock' following the alleged murder of his uncle.

The particulars of that charge stated that Blades 'engaged in behaviour' which was 'controlling or coercive which had a serious effect on her, namely that it caused Lisa Marie Zbozen to fear, on at least two occasions, that violence will be used against her, at a time when he knew, or ought to have known, that the behaviour will have a serious effect on Lisa Marie Zbozen.

She announced on Instagram in May 2024 that she had walked out of the marriage.

Blades wed Ms Zbozen - his second wife - in the grounds of a beachfront villa in Barbados in November 2022, 40 days before the start of the alleged abusive behaviour.

Blades wed Ms Zbozen (pictured together) - his second wife - in the grounds of a beachfront villa in Barbados three years ago

A court artists' sketch of Blades during an earlier appearance at Worcester Crown Court last year

Blades was dropped from The Repair Shop's live tour after he was charged last year, while Roman Kemp replaced him as host for the show's 2024 Christmas special.

He was handed an MBE in 2021 for services to craft and in recognition of his work promoting heritage craft and restoration in the UK.

In 2022, a special one-off episode to mark the BBC's centenary saw Blades and the repair team visit the King, when he was still the Prince of Wales, at Dumfries House in Scotland.

During The Repair Shop: A Royal Visit, a bracket clock and a piece made for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee by British ceramics maker Wemyss Ware were both fixed  and the broadcast later won a daytime Bafta TV award.

Blades also presented the BBC's Money For Nothing until 2020, and appeared on Celebrity Masterchef and Celebrity Bake Off as well as Comic Relief.
A Michigan law school graduate has made history by becoming the first woman wearing a hijab to be crowned the winner in a Muslim-majority suburb of Detroit.

Ameera Hashwi, 25, of Dearborn Heights - a city known for its large Arab and Middle Eastern population - was crowned Miss Wayne County 2025 on Sunday, becoming the first woman to win the title while wearing a hijab.

A key component of the competition involves selecting a personal cause or social impact initiative that each contestant will champion throughout the pageant journey - and, if crowned, throughout their reign as Miss America.

For Hashwi, her mission is to Step Up & Serve - a passionate campaign dedicated to inspiring physical fitness while empowering communities through acts of service, according to the organization's website.

'Hello, my name is Ameera,' the newly crowned winner said in an Instagram post, beaming as she was draped with flowers and a badge.

'My service initiative is Step Up and Serve, and I am your new Miss Wayne County,' she announced, her words met with an enthusiastic round of applause.

A graduate of Wayne State University Law School, Hashwis win marks a significant milestone for representation and inclusion, particularly in one of the most diverse counties in the state.

Her rich cultural heritage stood out during her on-stage talent, where she captivated the audience with a powerful vocal performance of Koul Chi Aam Yekhlass by Majida El Roumi.

Ameera Hashwi (pictured), 25, of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, made history by becoming the first woman wearing a hijab to be crowned the winner in a Muslim-majority suburb of Detroit

The law school graduate (pictured) was crowned Miss Wayne County 2025 on Sunday - earning both a spot at the Miss Michigan pageant and a shot at Miss America, a national platform that has launched careers and elevated important causes for over 100 years

The Arabic classic, whose title translates to 'Everything Is Ending,' holds themes of love, dreams and the passage of time, using its poignant title to reflect on lifes inevitable endings and the transient nature of life.

Lauren Mroczek, the 2025 Miss Greater Kalamazoo titleholder, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram celebrating Hashwis historic win, calling her a 'groundbreaker and change-maker.'

'Even though I just met you this weekend, I know you have a heart full of love for Wayne County, and will be such a bright light!' Mroczek wrote. 'Your smile and heart are contagious!'

Hashwi began her studies at Wayne State University in 2017 as an economics and history major, where she quickly took on a slew leadership roles.

For the next three years, she served as President of the History Club, Social Media Manager for the Lebanese Student Association, and Director of Community Affairs for the Student Senate, according to the university's website.

In September of 2021, Hashwi began her studies at the university's law school - completing the program in May 2024, when she was officially sworn in as an attorney.

'I am honored to have been sworn in by the Honorable Judge David D. Turfe, with Dana E. Fraser serving as my sponsoring attorney,' the pageant winner wrote to LinkedIn.

'Passing the Uniform Bar Exam with a score high enough to qualify for practice in any UBE jurisdiction marks a truly rewarding milestone,' she added.

Hashwi's (pictured) competition mission is to Step Up & Serve - a passionate campaign dedicated to inspiring physical fitness while empowering communities through acts of service

Hashwi (pictured) began her studies at Wayne State University in 2017 as an economics and history major, where she quickly took on a slew of leadership roles

In September of 2021, Hashwi began her studies at the university's law school - completing the program in May 2024, when she was officially sworn in as an attorney (pictured)

Now, Hashwis competition win means more than just a crown - its her ticket to the iconic Miss America stage.

The Miss Wayne County title is part of a long-standing scholarship program that helps young women become leaders, advocates and changemakers.

Winning it means earning a spot at the Miss Michigan pageant - and a shot at Miss America, a national platform that has launched careers and elevated important causes for over 100 years.

While the Miss America Organization has historically reflected narrow beauty standards - with women of color, religious minorities, and diverse body types often underrepresented - recent years have seen a shift toward inclusion.

Hashwi now embodies that change as she advances to Miss Michigan - and potentially the national stage - where she can help redefine what it means to wear the crown.

Although she made history as the first woman to win the title wearing a hijab, a Minnesota woman also broke barriers in 2016 as the first Miss Minnesota USA contestant to compete in one.

Nearly a decade ago, 19-year-old Halima Aden made history as the first contestant to compete in a hijab and burkini - a full-body swimsuit - throughout the entire pageant, according to CBC.

Her groundbreaking decision came at a time when anti-Muslim sentiment was rising across the US, particularly in the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election.

Nearly a decade ago, 19-year-old Halima Aden (pictured) made history as the first contestant to compete in a hijab and burkini - a full-body swimsuit - throughout the entire Miss Minnesota USA pageant

From 1996 to 2015, President Donald Trump himself owned the Miss America Organization, overseeing nearly 4,000 contestants during his tenure

Aden's (pictured) groundbreaking decision came at a time when anti-Muslim sentiment was rising across the US, particularly in the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election

From 1996 to 2015, President Donald Trump himself owned the Miss America Organization, overseeing nearly 4,000 contestants during his tenure.

The Somali-American teen quickly became a source of inspiration for women nationwide, fulfilling her goal of challenging and changing perceptions within the pageant world.

'It just makes me that more proud, because Donald Trump came to Minneapolis, and he talked about Somali-Americans, and how it was our fault that things werent going right in the community,' Aden told People at the time.

'And how as president, he would make sure that our people werent integrated into communities without other peoples approval,' she added. 'That just made me really sad because America was founded on differences.'

'We need to remember where everyone came from. Unless youre Native American, your great-great-great grandparents came here for the same purpose as me, they came to seek greater life regardless of religion. So we should never forget that.'
Lawmakers in Cincinnati are calling for a white man seen on video slapping a black man before a now viral brawl erupted to face prosecution.

The violent melee that unfolded two weekends ago in the downtown area of the Democrat led city has so far led to the arrest of six individuals.

On Monday night, Ohio State Rep Cecil Thomas led a discussion inside the New Prospect Baptist Church and raised concerns that the man had yet to be arrested.

Thomas, who leads the city chapter of the National Action Network, pointed out that all of those who have been arrested are black. He said the black community wanted answers about why others involved have not been prosecuted.

'The method by which this situation has been handled raises serious questions as whether there is bias involved in this investigation,' he said, according to WLWT.

'It also brings into question the lack of integrity and whether there is something else to hide.'

A new angle of what happened prior to the brawl shows an unidentified black man being slapped by the unknown white man, which sparked the chaos.

Seven people have been arrested in connection with the brawl, they are facing charges of aggravated riot and felonious assault charges, which carries with it the potential of 29 years in prison.

Ohio State Rep Cecil Thomas led a discussion inside the New Prospect Baptist Church and raised concerns that the man, circled here, had yet to be arrested

A new angle of what happened prior to the brawl shows an unidentified black man being slapped by the unknown white man

Pastor Leslie Jones also reportedly said : 'Our community is restless and they're watching.

'Since you don't think young people vote, old folks do. And they have told me they know how to vote, they know how to answer.

'If you don't prosecute this gentleman and we're not talking about we're demanding prosecution in the next 24 hours.'

Council member Scotty Johnson said the city had allowed 'right wing pressure' to dictate the investigation.

Johnson said: 'This was racially and politically skewed from the beginning. We have allowed right-wing pressure to move us in a direction that we had no intention of going.

'JD Vance and Bernie Moreno have dictated the direction of this investigation. We cannot bow to and allow political pressure to skew criminal investigations.'

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval released a statement following the meeting saying he agreed with the frustration.

Pureval said: 'I have been clear about my expectations that, in order to preserve both public safety and fairness, anyone involved in perpetrating the violence should be charged.

'Until all participants are held accountable, justice hasnt been fully served. And Im grateful that community leaders and residents are continuing to come together to make their expectations clear.'

He added that additional charging decisions would be made by officials 'as soon as possible'.

Footage obtained by Fox News also depicts a White man using a racial slur towards the group in the moments before the brawl.

The woman attacked, known only as Holly, is seen here with horrific injuries following the brawl

It comes after all six who have been arrested were formally indicted by a grand jury, the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office said.

Patrick Rosemond, 38, Jermaine Matthews, 39, Montianez Merriweather, 34, DeKyra Vernon, 24, Dominique Kittle, 37, and Aisha Devaughn, 25, are all facing charges.

A seventh suspect, 32-year-old Gregory Wright, was apprehended on Monday and is facing charges of aggravated riot and aggravated robbery. He pleaded not guilty.

Police allege in their criminal complaint that Wright ripped a necklace off a man while he was being assaulted during the brawl.

They said he then put the necklace into his pocket before proceeding to 'film the rest of the events', Fox19 reported.

A woman, known only as Holly, was brutally injured during the assault with her attack also caught on camera.

In a sit down interview last week, Holly claimed Mayor Pureval and Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge had ignored her.

Holly also said that police 'acted nonchalant' when they arrived at the scene and did not call for backup or an ambulance.

A seventh suspect, 32-year-old Gregory Wright, was apprehended on Monday and is facing charges of aggravated riot and aggravated robbery

Patrick Rosemond, 38, left, was arrested in Georgia in connection to the violent attack. Aisha Devaughn, right, allegedly hit one of the victims, prosecutors said

Jermaine Matthews, left, and Dominique Kittle are both facing charges in connection with the brawl

Dekyra Vernon, left, and Montianez Merriweather,right, were also taken into custody in connection with the melee

'They were less than helpful is all I can say. So, I wound up getting in my Uber when it showed up and went home and tried to sleep off the concussion,' Holly explained.

'They didn't even get a statement. No, the police were very, opposite of helpful.. They made me feel so uncomfortable.

'They don't even get my name. They don't even care enough to get my name', she added.

She went on to defend her actions that night, noting that she was the only person who decided to jump in to help the man because it was 'the right thing to do.'

'There were 100 people there that night and I jumped in, I was the only one who jumped in, to try and save him because that was the right thing to do.

'And, yeah, unfortunately they attacked me as well for trying to do the right thing,' Holly added.

Holly, seen here after the brutal attack, said that police 'acted nonchalant' when they arrived at the scene and did not call for backup or an ambulance

Five people have been charged in connection with the violent brawl that erupted in Cincinnati which has catapulted the city into the spotlight

Holly, who's described herself as a single working-class mother, said out of the large crowd of people, the only person who called 911 was another victim.

'So not one person decided to call 911 and then film these heinous crimes and attempted murder, because that is what it is no matter what they label it.

'It was attempted murder,' Holly said, adding that those who watched on should feel 'shame' for their actions

Days after the video of the vicious fight went viral, Chief Theetge said the outrage surrounding it lacked 'context.'

Chief Theetge also took aim at the media for only showing 'one version' of what occurred - without giving any more context about the fight herself.

'Social media and journalism and the role it plays in this incident, the posts that we have seen does not depict the entire incident,' she said.
A coastal community is outraged by the alleged hit and run murders of nine wombats after a local from a wealthy family was charged over the deaths.

Tyson Michael Delbridge, of Fish Creek in Victoria's South Gippsland region, has been charged over the alleged attack on one of Australia's beloved native animals.

The charges followed an extensive investigation into the deaths by the Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police.

Delbridge is accused of mowing down the wombats in Gippsland's Venus Bay in an incident investigators called 'a senseless and deliberate act of animal cruelty'.

The Daily Mail visited the region this week after Delbridge's image went viral on social media. It is not suggested that Delbridge is guilty of killing the wombats, only that he has been charged.

The youth is accused of running down the wombats along Lees Road, which runs between Venus Bay and Anderson Inlet on the opposite side.

It is an area surrounded by bushland, with a thriving community nestled in between the wilderness.

On Tuesday, almost every second home had a bright yellow sign displayed on its gate warning drivers to be mindful of the wildlife.

Fish Creek youth Tyson Delbridge has been identified as the alleged wombat killer

A male and female, one carrying a joey, were among those found dead

Delbridge, who could not be contacted, is expected to vehemently deny he was the driver who killed the wombats.

He is the son of cattle trader and dairy farmer Cameron Delbridge, a community stalwart with long established ties to the local community.

On Tuesday, a neighbour defended the alleged wombat killer, telling Daily Mail she could not believe he was responsible.

'He's a good kid,' she said.

The neighbour, who did not give her name, said Delbridge's parents were distraught about the allegations against their son.

'His mother is beside herself,' she said.

The woman claimed Delbridge had always been kind to her and routinely stopped by to offer his assistance on her rural property.

She claimed Delbridge was likely being blamed for the wicked deeds of others.

Tyson Delbridge's image has been plastered over social media

Delbridge is an electrician and is facing separate driving offences

Venus Bay on Victoria's east coast on Tuesday

'There were other cars in the area at the time,' she insisted.

Sources have told Daily Mail that up to three cars were believed to have been in the area when the wombats were killed.

The bodies were found by disturbed locals who took them to the side of the road.

At least one of the victims had a joey, which survived and was taken to a wildlife shelter.

In a statement issued at the time, Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said wildlife cruelty was unacceptable and pledged to investigate and seek prosecution for serious incidents.

'The Conservation Regulator takes wildlife cruelty seriously, and I encourage the public to report any information about wildlife crime to Crime Stoppers,' she added.

Investigators had been on the hunt for the alleged wombat killer for months, with the charges bringing some relief to the outraged local community.

News of the arrest was welcomed by South Gippsland Deputy Mayor and Venus Bay local, Sarah Gilligan.

Homes across Venus Bay have been plastered with yellow signs warning drivers to slow down

Wildlife officers alleged the deaths of nine wombats were by Delbridge

One of the alleged victims in the incident at Venus Bay

'It's been a very long seven months for the community of Venus Bay after the horrific [alleged] slaughter of too many beloved wombats,' she told the Daily Mail.

'This was a deliberate attack on community values and I'm thrilled to see the office of conservation regulator and police following through.'

Delbridge, who also faces serious driving charges related to a separate matter, was charged with 20 offences by Victoria's Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

The alleged wombat massacre turned local community members into sleuths, with people sharing information updates on social media in the hunt for the alleged perpetrator.

A poll on one page asked readers if anyone convicted of killing wombats should have their vehicle confiscated.

The response saw 60 per cent of those who participated suggest a convicted offender's car should be seized and crushed.

A source connected with one site told Daily Mail he has since come under fire from Delbridge's supporters, who have bombarded him with angry messages.

Delbridge's SUV which police allege was used to mow down the wombats

Wildlife cameras captured a vehicle they believed was responsible for the wombat killings

Images captured from wildlife cameras in the area

'I'm getting all the crazies contacting me from Gippsland now complaining about my posts,' he told Daily Mail.

'If I was to do a plot of where all the crazies come from it would centre on Korumburra - the former home town of the mushroom lady.'

Delbridge is set to appear in a country Victoria court in October where fireworks are likely to erupt between his supporters and animal welfare advocates.

Sources told the Daily Mail the bodies of the Venus Bay wombats had been left by the side of the road in an unusual way.

'Some were already lined up before we got there, like an undertaker had been there,' a source said.

A post on social media attacking wombats was allegedly 'loved' by an account belonging to Tyson Delbridge

Properties along Lees Road and surrounding areas are displaying signs warning drivers to slow down

'Whoever did this deserves jail. A diversion would be an insult to all involved. This is an opportunity to send a strong message.'

It is not the first time wombats have been killed in the area, with some locals suspecting more were deliberately killed just after Christmas last year.

Those found guilty of cruelty to wildlife face massive fines and up to two years behind bars.

Anyone with information on the attack should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
A New York woman who kicked a 'spiderweb' at an iconic Arkansas national park had actually stumbled across a $27,000 diamond she plans to use for her engagement ring.

Manhattanite Micherre Fox, 31, made the more than 1,330-mile trek from the Big Apple to Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park with one goal in mind.

Fox had set out on a mission to diligently explore the park known for being rich with gems and find the perfect diamond to adorn her dream engagement ring.

She decided on this frugal tactic to score a stunning ring without her and her boyfriend breaking the bank more than two years ago.

'There's something symbolic about being able to solve problems with money, but sometimes money runs out in a marriage,' Fox said in a press release.

'You need to be willing and able to solve those problems with hard work.'

The recent grad-school graduate was determined to make good use of her month-long break between academia and the start of her new job.

She researched locations around the world where she could go diamond hunting, thrilled to find out that the best place to search for treasures was in Arkansas.

Manhattanite Micherre Fox (pictured), 31, made the more than 1,330-mile trek from the Big Apple to Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park with one goal in mind

Since 1906, when the first diamonds were discovered in the historic region by the lands then-owner John Huddleston, more than 75,000 have been found (file photo)

Fox eagerly packed her bags and arrived in the Bear State on July 8 to kick off her adventure.

But weeks into her endeavor, she felt as if she were out of luck.

She had spent three weeks searching high and low for a glimmering diamond to take home with her, but had not found what she was looking for.

On the morning of July 29, her last day at the state park before she would have to return to New York City, the situation took an upward turn.

Fox had spotted what she believed was a spiderweb covered in dew shining at her feet.

She then kicked it with her boot in an attempt to disperse the shiny fibers, but quickly realized she had come across something far more valuable.

In awe, Fox bent down and reached for the tiny glistening object - a 2.30-carat white diamond.

'Having never seen an actual diamond in my hands, I didnt know for sure, but it was the most diamond-y diamond I had seen,' Fox recalled in disbelief.

Fox had spotted what she believed was a spiderweb covered in dew shining at her feet (stock image)

In awe, Fox bent down and reached for the tiny glistening object - a 2.30-carat white diamond (pictured)

Tightly holding on to the gemstone, Fox rushed to the Diamond Discovery Center to get her prize examined and weighed by park staff.

When they confirmed it was in fact a white diamond weighing more than two carats, Fox dropped to her knees and sobbed.

The news took Fox on an emotional rollercoaster, as she quickly stopped crying and started laughing.

Arkansas State Parks described Fox's diamond as about the size of a human canine tooth.

It has a 'a smooth, rounded shape and beautiful metallic luster,' which will look absolutely stunning on Fox's engagement ring.

Fox's find was the third-largest diamond found in the Crater of Diamonds State Park this year.

And according to StoneAglo estimates, a 2.3-carat diamond is worth roughly $27,100 right now.

'Ms. Foxs story highlights the fact that, even when putting forth your best effort, being in the right place at the right time plays a part in finding diamonds,' park Assistant Superintendent Waymon Cox said.

Fox's find was the third-largest diamond (pictured) found in the Crater of Diamonds State Park this year

More than 366 diamonds from the park (pictured) have been registered this year so far

'After weeks of hard work, Ms. Fox found her diamond sitting right on top of the ground.'

Fox named her cherished possession the Fox-Ballou Diamond, after her and her partners last names.

While she undoubtedly put in the effort and dedication, Fox attributed a portion of her success to sheer luck.

'When you are literally picking up the dirt in your hands, no amount of research can do that for you,' she explained.

'No amount of education can take you all the way. It was daunting!'

More than 366 diamonds from the park have been registered this year so far, according to a press release.

Just 11 of them have weighed more than one carat.

David DeCook of Stewartville, Minnesota, found the heaviest one this year in April when he took home a stunning 3.81-carat brown diamond named the Duke Diamond.

David DeCook (pictured) of Stewartville had found the largest diamond in the state park so far this year

DeCook home a stunning 3.81-carat brown diamond named the Duke Diamond (pictured)

Even though they are valuable, brown diamonds are worth less than white diamonds, according to Naturally Colored.

Three carats of white diamond could cost about $40,000, while the same amount of brown diamond costs about $10,000.

Brown diamonds' values range from $1,000 to $5,000 per carat, according to Ouros Jewels.

Based on these numbers, the Duke Diamond could be worth anywhere from $3,810 to $19,050.

Since 1906, when the first diamonds were discovered in the historic region by the lands then-owner John Huddleston, more than 75,000 have been found.

The largest gem ever unearthed at the park was a whopping 40.23-carat white diamond with a pink cast in 1924.

It was discovered while the land was still a mining area - as it did not officially become a state park until 1972 - and was dubbed the Uncle Sam.

The Uncle Sam was later cut into a 12.42-carat emerald shape, which no sits in the Smithsonian's mineral and gem collection.
A transgender volunteer police officer allegedly told his victim he wanted to have sex with her despite her being 'so young' she was still interested in teddy bears, a court heard.

James Bubb, who now identifies as a woman named Gwyn Samuels, was violent towards the complainant despite her asking them to be gentle when taking her virginity while in her early teens, Amersham Law Courts heard.

In a police interview played to the court on Tuesday, the alleged victim told officers that at the age of 12, she was being 'hidden' when the pair were in public together and that the defendant, who was 21, looked 'paranoid' when with her.

The complainant, who met Bubb on video-chat site Omegle in 2018, also spoke of how she was 'frozen' when the now 27-year-old defendant attempted to engage in sexual activity in public shortly before her 13th birthday.

She told officers she had said to the defendant that she was five years older than she actually was when they first met - but insisted that a number of incidents when they were together would have meant he knew she was underage.

The alleged victim said: 'He knew at the time that I was very much interested in things like teddies.'

She told police of their first in-person meeting at a Christian festival where Bubb, who was working as a volunteer steward for Metropolitan Police at the time, made remarks about going into her tent and having sex with her.

She spoke of how the pair met up away from other festival-goers and said her colour-coded child wristband was clearly on show.

The alleged victim said: 'He was really paranoid, looking around constantly.'

James Bubb, who now identifies as a woman named Gwyn Samuels (pictured in a court sketch), was violent towards the complainant despite her asking them to be gentle when taking her virginity, Amersham Law Courts heard

She added: 'We were in a relationship in my eyes but I was being hidden whenever we were in public.

'He made remarks in person about when it was dark... about coming into my tent and having sex with me.

'I was actually so young at that point that I had a teddy bear in my tent. He knew at the time that I was very much interested in things like teddies.'

Addressing how she felt when the defendant spoke of going into her tent, she added: 'I said I wasn't comfortable with that... and I believe he sent me a text on Snapchat at that point and he said he was probably going to come into my tent either way - maybe while I was sleeping.

'I remember being scared that night.'

The complainant went on to speak about how, when the pair started having sex, Bubb was violent.

Telling officers about when the defendant took her virginity, she said: 'He had his hands around my throat. I tried to get words out but they weren't coming out as easily.'

She told the officer that sometimes the defendant was 'hitting me during sex... sometimes he would punch me'.

The complainant, who met Bubb on video-chat site Omegle in 2018, also spoke of how she was 'frozen' when the now 27-year-old defendant attempted to engage in sexual activity in public shortly before her 13th birthday

The alleged victim added: 'He would also make remarks about raping me.

'He told me I enjoyed being raped and when I said no, he didn't stop and that's when he made these specific remarks.'

The defendant has denied one count of rape in relation to one complainant, and two counts of rape, two counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of assault of a child under 13 by penetration, one count of rape of a child under 13 and one count of assault by penetration in relation to the other complainant.

All charges are alleged to have taken place between January 1, 2018 to April 2, 2024.

The defendant, of High Street, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, denies all charges.

The trial continues.
Russia is believed to be behind an 'unprecedented' cyber hack that exposed some of the Department of Justice's most high-profile sources.

Last week, it was revealed the hackers breached the electronic case filing system used by the federal judiciary - and may have accessed confidential information from federal district courts around the country.

It has since been dug up by investigators that those responsible, at least in part, have Russian origins, just days before Donald Trump is set to meet with Vladimir Putin in Washington.

Several people briefed told the New York Times that despite the certainty, it was unclear if the hackers were with Russian intelligence or if other nations were involved in what they call a yearslong effort.

The searches involved in the breach often involved mid-level criminal files that featured people with Russian surnames.

Last week, it was revealed that among the information that may have been compromised are the identities of confidential informants in criminal cases, though the identities of those who were thought to face exceptional risk for cooperating with the DOJ are held on separate systems than the ones hacked.

Department of Justice officials under Attorney General Pam Bondi have reportedly been informed that the court files have faced 'persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records.'

The staffers have been warned to remove any of their most important documents from the system.

Russia is believed to be behind an 'unprecedented' cyber hack on some of the Department of Justice's most high-profile sources

Department of Justice officials under Attorney General Pam Bondi have reportedly been informed that the court files have faced 'persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records'

Officials are still dealing with figuring out the patterns of the breach and determine the complete damage done.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the Department of Justice for comment.

Other information the hackers may have acquired are sealed indictments detailing confidential information about alleged crimes and arrests and search warrants that criminals may use to evade capture.

The Administrative Office of the US Courts, which manages the federal court filing system, has now been left scrambling with the Department of Justice and district courts around the US to determine how much of a threat the hack poses.

But an unidentified source who spent more than two decades on the federal judiciary told Politico: 'It's the first time I've ever seen a hack at this level.'

It is now suspected that the attack was conducted by nation-state affiliated actors, though criminal organizations may have also been involved.

Officials were first made aware of the breach around the July 4 holiday, and chief judges of the federal courts in the 8th Circuit - which includes Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota - were alerted about the hack last week, according to Politico.

It affected the judiciary's federal core case management system - which includes the Case Management/Electronic Case Files that lawyers use to upload and manage case documents as well as PACER, a system that gives the public limited access to the data.

The attack targeted the judiciary's federal core case management system - which includes the Case Management/Electronic Case Files that lawyers use to upload and manage case documents as well as PACER, a system that gives the public limited access to the data (pictured)

Michael Scudder, who chairs the Committee on Information Technology for the federal courts and national policymaking body, warned of the susceptibility of the outdated system to hackers in June

Roughly a dozen court dockets were also tampered with in one court district during the hack, an unidentified source said.

The incident demonstrates the susceptibility of the outdated court filing system to hackers.

PACER had even been hacked at least once before - back in July 2022 - in a breach that then-House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler described as 'startling in breadth and scope.'

Michael Scudder, who chairs the Committee on Information Technology for the federal courts and national policymaking body, warned the House Judiciary in June of this year that more such attacks may be coming.

He said that because the Judiciary holds such sensitive information, it faces 'unrelenting security threats of extraordinary gravity.'

'Experience has shown that the Judiciary is a high-value target for malicious actors and cyber criminals seeking to misappropriate confidential information and disrupt the judicial process in the United States,' he testified.

'These attacks pose risks to our entire justice system.'

In fiscal year 2024, he noted, 200 million harmful cyber 'events' were prevented from penetrating court local area networks in fiscal year 2024, according to The Record.

But, Scudder said, the Case Management/Electronic Case Files and PACER systems pose an even greater risk as they are 'outdated [and] unsustainable due to cyber risks and require replacement,' which he said is a 'top priority' for the Department of Justice.

Still, Scudder said, a new, more modernized system would have to be 'developed and rolled out on an incremental basis.'
A summer camp sponsored by an Islamic charity accused of backing Iran has been cancelled after concerns were raised it could expose children as young as nine to extreme views.

Local councillors said they had been 'swamped' by petitions to call off the upcoming four-day residential camp run by the Ahlulbayt Islamic Mission charity in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire.

Representatives of 11 Reform UK branches across the county had also written to the managers of the centre where Camp Wilayah was due to be held, demanding that it be cancelled.

The Daily Mail can now reveal that the residential, described as a 'unique opportunity' for children aged nine to 14 to build on their Islamic values, will not go ahead as planned over the August bank holiday.

Liberal Democrat and chair of Hertfordshire County Council Laurence Brass welcomed the decision, saying the final call had been made by the scout group that own the venue.

He added: 'We have been swamped with petitions for it to be cancelled.

'I was very upset that it was going ahead and I am very pleased with this result. I think it is the right decision.'

Mr Brass said that Hertfordshire County Council is due to announce the cancellation of the camp officially on Wednesday.

Picture advertising the camp shows children taking part in archery as one of the activities

According to the charity's website, girls who attend must wear a hijab and loose clothing

Camp Wilayah, which has been run by Ahlulbayt Islamic Mission for a number of years, was due to be held between August 22 and August 25.

According to the charity's website, any girls attending were required to wear a hijab and loose clothing.

They were also due to be separated from the boys for the duration of the camp, except for daily prayers, talks and a team photo.

Ahlulbayt Islamic Mission, which is based in Cricklewood, north-west London, has been accused of backing Iran's theocratic regime.

In posts on social media, the charity has repeatedly praised Tehran's leader Ayatollah Khamenei - and even described his books as a 'great read'.

The organisation has also refused to condemn the terror group Hamas and said in the wake of the October 7 attacks that 'Zionists brought this disaster upon themselves'.

Meanwhile in another post on Instagram from last year, young children can be seen drawing and colouring in Palestinian flags and watermelon symbols.

Legal lobby group UK Lawyers for Israel previously criticised the planned activities at the camp - saying they could incite hatred towards Jewish people.

It said in a comment to The Telegraph: 'AIM's deep ideological alignment with the Iranian regime and its record of extremist propaganda presents an unacceptable risk to children.

Pictured: An advert for this year's camp on the charity's website

'We hope the local authority and other agencies will act decisively to protect vulnerable young people from exposure to harmful and radicalising content.'

In a post on their website on Tuesday, Ahlulbayt Islamic Mission confirmed that Camp Wilayah had been postponed until further notice.

The charity said this was in light of 'serious threats levelled at the safety of children at the camp'.

The statement read: 'Following discussions with Hertfordshire Scouts, and in light of serious threats levelled at the safety of children at the camp, we regret to announce that this year's Camp Wilayah will not proceed at Phasels Wood over the bank holiday weekend.

'We know this decision will cause some disappointment; however, our first priority is to protect the safety and security of our children, and we take this matter very seriously.

'For foreign political lobby groups, media outlets and far right thugs to make unfounded allegations that heighten the risk and encourage harm to children in the UK is truly disgraceful.

It added: 'For over a decade, Camp Wilayah has been a cherished space where our children could enjoy the outdoors, grow in their values, and form lifelong friendships.

'Many of those who attended Camp Wilayah are now doctors, plumbers, teachers, engineers, and public servants, proud citizens who give back to Britain every single day.

'No evidence of wrongdoing has ever been found at Camp Wilayah, yet our children are being punished simply for their faith.'

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick also raised concerns that children should be allowed to attend camps run by 'supporters of the Iranian regime'

'To attack such a wholesome and positive tradition is shameful, especially when threats are made by the Reform Party to mobilise protests and disrupt childrens camps.

'Not only is this despicable behaviour, but it is Islamophobia in plain sight, and it should alarm every member of society.'

UK Lawyers for Israel wrote to Brentwood Council in London and Hertfordshire County Council last month asking for Camp Wilayah to be banned.

The group warned councillors: 'There is compelling reason to believe that the event may be used as a platform to radicalise children, incite hatred or violence, and glorify terrorist ideology.'

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick also raised concerns that children should be allowed to attend camps run by 'supporters of the Iranian regime'.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council previously said: 'We are aware of concerns around this planned activity camp, and we are working with partners to understand the situation and whether it raises any safeguarding issues.'

There is no evidence the charity poses a risk to children and in a statement on their website it says its goal is to 'promote peace' and 'create a better world for everyone'.

It reads: 'We at AIM are committed in our efforts to spread peace, tolerance and co-existence; and to promote social harmony as contained in our rich and abundant Islamic heritage.

'AIM believes that the continual pursuit of its objectives will create a better world for everyone.'

AIM also described the camp as an 'amazing place to enjoy the outdoors, make new friends, learn and build on Islamic values'.
The mayor of Washington DC called Trump's federal takeover of the city an 'authoritarian push' as National Guard troops flooded the capital.

Mayor Muriel Bowser criticized the Trump's ambitious crime crackdown on Tuesday night while fielding questions from citizens during a digital town hall.

Bowser was asked how faith groups could help support the community when she urged residents to protect the city.

She responded: 'This is a time when the community needs to jump in. To protect our city, to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule.

'Get to the other side of this guy and make sure we elect a Democratic House so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push.'

Bowser's latest comments were significantly more forceful than her her previous cautious approach to Trump's plans. She had described the federal takeover on Monday as 'unprecedented' but also conceded she wasn't 'totally surprised'.

Camo-clad troops with the National Guard started arrived into the capital at around 8 pm on Tuesday in a bid by the White House to curb violent crime.

Mayor Muriel Bowser made the comments while speaking during a virtual town hall on Tuesday

Bowser had described the move by Trump on Monday as being 'unsettling and unprecedented' but also conceded she wasn't 'totally surprised'

Troops with the National Guard started arrived into the capital on Tuesday in a bid by the White House to curb violent crime

Military Humvees parked on the National Mall on Tuesday evening with officers standing close by.

Other officers, who look to be from another agency, could be seen stopping and searching vehicles, as well as speaking with residents.

The New York Times reported that the troops stayed in the area for two hours before leaving after what a nearby master sergeant described as a 'presence patrol'.

Pentagon documents seen by The Washington Post indicated Trump has been considering plans for a 'Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force.' The force would be prepared to deploy 600 boots on the ground within an hour anywhere in the US if given the green light.

On Monday, the president teased this type of action could extend to other major cities including New York City and Chicago.

'This will go further,' the President said. 'Were going to take back our capital  and then well look at other cities also,' before he singled out Chicago, LA, New York, Baltimore, and Oakland.

FBI Director Kash Patel said that so far 23 people were arrested in the city with help from partners in a post to his X.

According to Patel one person was arrested on a search warrant for a previous murder charge while others were nabbed for unlawful possession of firearms.

Patel added that multiple people were also arrested for having outstanding warrants for DUI, while one was taken in for violating a restraining order.

'These are just a few examples we are just getting started. When you let good cops be cops they can clean up our streets and do it fast', he added.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that around 850 officers and agents had fanned out across the city on Monday and made the arrests

The president also vowed to clear out camps of homeless people from Washington, DC parks and public lands

The move by Trump was announced on Monday, the president it was to 'rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor'

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that around 850 officers and agents had fanned out across the city on Monday and made the arrests.

The move by Trump was announced on Monday, the president it was to 'rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor'.

Flanked by cabinet members Attorney General Pam Bondi, US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro, FBI Director Kash Patel, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Interior Director Doug Burgum, Trump said he would instruct federal law enforcement officials to deploy aggressive tactics against the city's worst offenders.

'You spit and we hit and we can hit real hard,' he said.

The president also vowed to clear out camps of homeless people from Washington, DC parks and public lands.

Federal law officials began their citywide deployment over the weekend, ramping up a public display of force that was seen immediately by residents.

'Our Capital City has been overtaken by violent gangs, bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged out maniacs and homeless people, and we're not going to let it happen anymore,' he said. 'We're not going to take it.'

Trump also highlighted recent horrific crimes in the city including a 21-year-old congressional intern who was hit by a stray bullet in a drive-by shooting and killed.

As well as a former Trump administration official murdered in a carjacking, and a Democratic congressman who was carjacked at gunpoint.

Trump also recalled a 'demented lunatic' that stabbed an aide to Sen. Rand Paul in 2023 and a 3-year-old girl who was shot and killed near the Capitol.

The president's claim that crime has spike has been contested by the Bowser, who has pointed to stats that show violent crime has decreased in the District since 2023.

FBI Director Kash Patel said that so far 23 people were arrested in the city with help from partners in a post to his X

President Donald Trump speaks at a White House press briefing flanked by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth

National Guard troops are deployed to the Washington Monument as part of President Trump's mobilization of law enforcement on August 12, 2025

Violent crime in DC is down 26 percent this year and in 2024 reached a 30-year low, with 190 homicides in 2024 compared to 274 in 2023

Violent crime in DC is down 26 percent this year and in 2024 reached a 30-year low, with 190 homicides in 2024 compared to 274 in 2023, according to metro police department statistics.

'The Mayor of D.C., Muriel Bowser, is a good person who has tried, but she has been given many chances, and the Crime Numbers get worse, and the City only gets dirtier and less attractive,' Trump said in a Sunday night Truth Social post.

In April, Bowser announced the creation of a special police force specifically to tackle underage crime.

In an interview on MSNBC Sunday, she pushed back on White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller saying that D.C. was 'more violent than Baghdad.'

If Trump's 'Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force' was brought in troops would be split between the east and west of the Mississippi River at military bases in Alabama and Arizona.

National Guard officials reportedly began drafting the plan between late July and early August.

Traditionally, the National Guard has fast-response teams prepared for their individual states; however, Trumps new proposal calls for transporting troops between different states.

The documents estimate the earliest the program could be created is the fiscal year of 2027 with funding coming from the Pentagons annual budget.

Earlier this year, Trump deployed over 5,000 National Guard troops along with active-duty Marines to the Los Angeles area to quell protests denouncing his administrations immigration policies.
This is the dramatic moment a superyacht close to the island of Ibiza erupted into flames and sank.

Footage taken on Monday shows the blaze tearing through the 91ft vessel as a huge plume of dark grey smoke rises into the sky.

The seven crew members were evacuated unharmed and in 'good condition', according to The Maritime Rescue and Safety Society, Salvamento Maritimo.

The yacht, named Da Vinci, was 7.3 miles southwest of Formentera, a small island off the coast of Ibiza.

Despite the combined efforts of emergency responders, the fire remained unextinguished.

In a post on X on Monday, Salvamento Maritimo said: 'CCS Palma deploys Guardamar Concepcion Arenal and Salvamar Naos, which also transports firefighters.

This is the dramatic moment a superyacht close to the island of Ibiza erupted into flames and sank

Footage taken on Monday shows the blaze tearing through the 91ft vessel as a huge plume of dark grey smoke rises into the sky

The seven crew members were evacuated unharmed and in in 'good condition', according to The Maritime Rescue and Safety Society, Salvamento Maritimo

The yacht, named Da Vinci, was 7.3 miles southwest of Formentera, a small island off the coast of Ibiza

'The 7 crew members have been evacuated by the Naos to land in good condition.

'The fire could not be controlled, and the yacht has finally sunk.

'The Guardamar remains in the area cleaning up debris.'

Periodico de Ibiza y Formentera, a news organization based out of the Balearic Islands, reported the fire as having started in the engine room.

Spanish maritime authorities dispatched a rescue boat and patrol vessel to respond to the fire.

Ultima Hora reported that initially, the fire appeared to be under control, but when the rescue boats began to pull the yacht, the fire escalated before it ultimately sank.

It comes just one month after a yacht in Germany was seen erupting in flames before being left a charred heap of metal in the middle of Magdeburg city centre.

At around 5am on July 17 a loud bang awoke local residents who quickly realised a yacht on the Elbe river, between the Queen Edith Bridge and the Customs Bridge, had caught fire.

A Danish man and woman were aboard the 29ft yacht at the time of the blaze outbreak. They managed to escape the fire at the last minute, suffering minor injuries.

But they were dashed to hospital with suspected hypothermia and smoke inhalation, as per local reports.

According to the police's initial findings: 'The yacht had become stuck the previous day due to low water.'

During the terrifying incident, 41 emergency personnel responded to the scene as well as a special fireboat.

A fire department spokesperson told MDR: 'The fire was already fully engulfed when the emergency services arrived.'

After around an hour of emergency works, the fire had been extinguished, but the boat could not be saved.
A woman who tried to smuggle 800,000 worth of crack cocaine into the UK stashed in a hollowed-out cheese wheel has been jailed.

US national Jamie Choi, 23, was stopped by Border Force officers at Heathrow on May 25 after arriving on a flight from Brazil.

The California resident was then asked about the 8kg Parmesan cheese wheel she had with her.

Choi claimed a friend had suggested she buy the cheese from Lima, Peru, for them to try, but when officers examined the wheel they found it contained crack cocaine.

Forensic analysis later revealed the drug to be 94 per cent pure - giving it a street value of 800,000.

The National Crime Agency, took over the investigation, tracing Choi's route zig-zagging across South America after flying from Los Angeles to Lima on May 20, 2025.

The next day, Choi travelled to Asuncion, Paraguay, and on May 24, she flew to Heathrow Airport, after connecting through Sau Paulo, Brazil.

A woman who tried to smuggle 800,000 worth of crack cocaine into the UK stashed in a hollowed-out cheese wheel had been jailed. US national Jamie Choi (pictured) , 23, was stopped by Border Force officers at Heathrow on May 25 after arriving on a flight from Brazil

The California resident was then asked about the 8kg. parmesan cheese wheel she had with her (pictured)

A notebook was found in Choi's handbag, which contained a single handwritten memo dated May 21  the day she left Lima

A notebook was found in Choi's handbag, which contained a single handwritten memo dated May 21  the day she left Lima.

It read: 'I dropped out of UCSB (University of California Santa Barbara) on Monday. Currently I am in Paraguay in South America solo travelling for the first time. It's been amazing so far.'

Choi, who was charged with importing Class A drugs, pleaded guilty to the offence at Isleworth Crown Court on 6 August.

NCA senior investigating officer, Barry Vinall, said: 'We've seen people trying to smuggle cocaine into the UK hidden inside all manner of innocuous-looking items, but Border Force and the National Crime Agency are well-practised in finding drugs, whatever the disguise.

'Smuggling drugs into the UK is simply not a risk work taking  it has consequences, as seen in this case.'

Choi was jailed for five years and three months on August 12.

It comes after last month three Brits who had been warned they faced the death penalty for smuggling drugs into Bali hidden in Angel Delight packets were let off with just a one-year prison sentence.

The Indonesian court instead gave 12-month prison terms to the three British nationals, all from Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea in East Sussex, who had been accused of drug running on the resort island.

Jonathan Christopher Collyer, 38, and Lisa Ellen Stocker, 39, were arrested on February 1 after being stopped at Bali's international airport with 17 packages of cocaine that weighed nearly a kilogram, according to public court records.

They appeared in court alongside Phineas Ambrose Float, 31, who was allegedly due to receive the packages from them and was arrested a few days later in February.

The trio appeared in distinctive white and red prison uniforms before a panel of judges at Denpasar District Court on July 24.

Presiding judge Heriyanti declared that all three suspects had violated article 131 of Indonesian Narcotic law - but said he was reducing the sentence because they had admitted their offences and had behaved politely.

All three defendants stated that they accepted the verdict and would not file an appeal. The time served since their arrest in February will count towards their sentence, meaning they should be released early next year.

The shorter sentence was a surprise as convicted drug traffickers, especially those caught with large quantities, have in the past been executed by firing squad in Indonesia, including foreign nationals.
Shocking footage has emerged of a man proudly holding an Australian flag being set upon and punched by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Hundreds of students skipped class and took to the streets of Melbourne last Thursday to protest against the war in Gaza, sparking chaotic scenes.

The Students for Palestine strike action shut down Flinders Street and brought traffic and tram services to a halt, sparking a fiery standoff with police.

Tensions became more volatile when a man carrying an Australian flag strode into the middle of a circle of protesters sitting in a busy intersection.

He was set upon by several protesters, one of whom punched him in the face.

Police quickly intervened and pulled the man from the chaos to defuse the situation.

Nationals MP Andrew Willcox described the protesters' actions as 'absolutely disgraceful' and called for the alleged attacker to be charged.

'I'm as patriotic as could possibly be, my blood boils when I see this,' he told Sky News host Rowan Dean.

A man carrying an Australian flag strode into the middle of a circle of protesters at a pro-Palestine rally in Melbourne last Thursday

The man was set upon by protesters and had to pulled away by police

'As the footage goes on, what I'm really concerned about is then the police actually take away the gentleman who was carrying the Australian flag.

'I'm hoping they took him away to buy him a beer and then went back to arrest that coward who punched him from the side.

'He should be easy enough to find. He needs to be arrested and the full force of the law thrown onto him.'

Former Coalition Speaker of the House Bronwyn Bishop was just as horrified by the shocking scenes.

But she pointed the finger at the federal Labor government, which has since made the landmark decision to recognise the state of Palestine.

'This intolerance that has been bred by Anthony Albanese and Penny Wong and their policies towards supporting the Gaza cause and absolutely giving the wrong leadership about sympathising with Jewish Australians leads to this sort of behaviour,' she told Dean.

'Fish rots from the head and that's what [is] happening here. The government is rotting from the head.

'And until we get some moral courage back and we start to say 'in this country, we won't tolerate this sort of behaviour', that requires the police to act, not against the victim but against the perpetrator.'

The man carrying the Aussie flag has been hailed online as a legend and hero

Five protesters were arrested during the Students for Palestine strike action

The pro-Palestinian protest shut down parts of the Melbourne CBD, sparking a fiery stand-off

No arrests or charges have been laid in relation to the incident.

Victoria Police confirmed to Daily Mail that one man was moved on for breaching the peace.

Five protesters were arrested for obstructing the roadway, who will be charged on summons.

The protest was held days after a massive pro-Palestine rally involving up to 90,000 people across the Sydney Harbour Bridge brought the city to a standstill.
Fatima Payman, who sensationally quit Labor over its stance on Gaza, has demanded an apology from Anthony Albanese after he announced the Australian government would recognise Palestinian statehood.

The Prime Minister revealed on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month, following similar commitments made by other Western allies, including the UK, France, and Canada.

Senator Payman, who defied Labor in June 2024 by voting with the Greens to call for the recognition of Palestinian statehood, said she was 'absolutely thrilled' by Monday's announcement, claiming it was vindication for her decision to defy Albanese.

'Having to cross the floor to vote for such an important issue and then having to endure the resulting fallout from Labor and some in the community was one of the most stressful moments of my life,' Senator Payman said in a media release.

'But it is terrific to know that Labor has finally caught up and that my move has been vindicated.'

Senator Payman was forgiving of her former boss, Albanese, claiming she was now 'sanguine' over his decision to 'indefinitely suspend' her for 'disrespecting' the Labor Party caucus.

But that same magnanimity was not matched in Senator Payman's social media comments section, after she shared a buoyant post where she claimed that Albanese's long-awaited announcement proved she was 'on the right side of history.'

Responding to a critic who asked if she would 'now apologise to Albo and beg to be allowed back in the party,' Senator Payman did not mince her words.

'Why would I do that lol?', she responded, in her trademark 'youth-speak'.

Senator Fatima Payman, who defied Labor in June 2024 by voting with the Greens to call for the recognition of Palestinian statehood, said she was 'absolutely thrilled' by Monday's announcement, claiming it was vindication for her decision to defy Albanese

'I stuck by the Labor Party Platform and did right by the members. He owes me an apology.'

A spokesperson for Senator Payman told the Daily Mail she has not heard anything from the Prime Minister's office or anyone within Labor's senior ranks.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers was asked on Wednesday morning whether Senator Payman had now been vindicated in her decision to quit Labor but dodged the question.

'I always think that whether it's Senator Payman or others, we're better off working for change within the party, rather than sitting outside the party,' Chalmers told ABC RN.

'She doesn't have an identical view to the government on this still, and this government works through issues in a considered, consultative and methodical way, and that's why we've made this announcement that we made earlier in the week.'

'I haven't spoken to Senator Payman about it, or heard any public commentary from her.

'No doubt there's been some. But we work through these issues in our own way, on our own, in our own time, and that's what's seen the progress delivered this week.'

Senator Payman, who is in the process of founding her own party, said that recognition of Palestinian statehood was only the first step.

Happier times: a spokesperson for Senator Payman told the Daily Mail she has not heard anything from the Prime Minister's office or any one within Labor's senior ranks

'Now we need sanctions on Israel, an end to the arms trade, full transparency in our trade relationships, and recognition of the Palestinian right to return,' she added.

'Only then can recognition be matched with the meaningful action Palestinians deserve.'

Labor's long-awaited announcement triggered a flurry of furious criticism from Israel and Jewish groups, who accused them of playing into Hamas's hands by 'effectively 'rewarding terrorism'.

However, Albanese hit back, accusing the Israeli government of presiding over a 'completely unacceptable' situation whereby Gazans are dying of starvation.

Albanese said that when he spoke to Netanyahu last Thursday, the Israeli Prime Minister made the same argument that he had made a year ago.

'That if we just had more military action in Gaza, somehow that will produce a different outcome,' Albanese told the ABC.

'What it's producing is more and more innocent lives being lost. More and more violence. More and more destitution that we're seeing play out with the starvation that has occurred in Gaza.'

Albanese accused Netanyahu of being 'in denial about the consequences that are occurring for innocent people'.

Labor's support for Palestinian statehood is contingent on Hamas playing no role in any future government, free elections being held and demilitarisation of the region.

However, serious doubts have been raised about the faith Albanese is placing in the 89-year-old Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Abbas, who has not faced election since 2005 in the notoriously corrupt West Bank, has also promised to end 'pay to slay' rewards for terrorists and their families.

However, Jewish groups have pointed out that he has a notorious track record of breaking promises.
An illegal migrant has shared a 'step-by-step guide' on how to cross the Channel on a small boat before telling others to spend their money making the illegal journey.

The man shared videos of his journey on TikTok, gaining nearly one million views, as he boasted about entering the UK illegally.

Known as Alexandra420, he shared videos of himself on the small boat before live streaming in an asylum hotel.

There, he told followers he was in 'the best place' while broadcasting from his free accommodation near Heathrow Airport.

Alexandra left Calais at around 4am on Saturday, The Sun reported.

He first shared a 13-second clip from the middle of the Channel, which showed a French lifeboat alongside which was also full of migrants making the dangerous crossing.

In a second clip, he shared a video of himself grinning in an orange jacket and pointing to the sky.

He then showed the boat as it was surrounded by huge freight ships, set to the theme tune of US drama Prison Break.

A man crossing the channel on a small boat shared a step-by-step guide of his illegal journey to the UK

Alexandra shared a live video on the platform where he boasted about making the journey to the UK

He shared footage of himself with other illegal migrants on a boat making the crossing from France

It comes as the number of small-boat migrants reaching Britain under Labour passed 50,000.

Keir Starmer was slammed for 'incompetence' over the handling of the Channel crisis, with the soaring figure a clear indication of the lack of a plan since he axed the Tories' Rwanda deportation scheme on his first day in power.

Former Labour home secretary Jacqui Smith blamed the Tories, claiming: 'What is happening is the result of the last government.'

Yesterday, Reform Leader Nigel Farage criticised the Prime Minister on social media.

He wrote: 'As I predicted 5 years ago, unless we deport illegal migrants the invasion will be huge. 50,000 since our weak Prime Minister took office and there is no sign of it stopping.'

Alexandra was one of more than 400 arrivals on Saturday and was taken in by Border Force officials to be processed in Kent.

He was then taken to the four-star Crowne Plaza Hotel near Heathrow, where he started live streaming to his followers.

In the stream, he gave viewers a tour of his room, with two single beds and an en suite bathroom.

Alexandra gave viewers a tour of his room, with two single beds and an en suite bathroom

Migrants wade into the sea in an attempt to board a small boat on August 12, 2025 in Gravelines

He said: 'This is dedicated to those haters who were happy thinking we either drowned or ended up dead.'

Alexandra later claimed the boat he illegally travelled on began to deflate halfway through the journey and would have sank if Border Force officials had not rescued them.

He said: 'It was dangerous. Our boat sank. It was punctured. The water came from the inside of the boat.

'On the other side, three people pumped the water. If the British boats hadn't come in an hour, we would have been in trouble.'

Despite nearly facing serious danger, he encouraged others to pay the people-smugglers to risk the dangerous crossing.

He said: 'I risked my life, I spent my money, I came. Your country is not your mother.

'Those who want to come, this is the best place. Don't be stingy. Your country is not your father, that you are so stingy. Live your life.

'Tell your four friends to come. Why are you so stingy? Being stingy is not good for God. You see, I risked my life! Why don't you come? My wish was to come to this hotel and live. I came here just for this.'

Crowne Plaza hotel in West Drayton near Heathrow is thought to be one of the UK's longest opening asylum hostelss

He claimed that after being told about the risk of deportation, he told officials 'I will commit suicide', The Sun reported.

Alexandra finished his video by spinning on his chair and shouting 'welcome to London'.

The Government's 'returns deal' with France appears to have done little to deter those determined to get to Britain, with the latest total including more than 1,500 arrivals in the seven days since the 'one in, one out' scheme launched.

Official figures revealed there were 474 arrivals on Monday alone, bringing the total since the general election on July 4 last year to 50,271, despite the Prime Minister's promise to 'smash the gangs' behind the trafficking trade.

The milestone was passed seven months earlier than under his Conservative predecessor, Rishi Sunak.

Baroness Smith  who is now an education, women and equalities minister under Sir Keir  said: 'It is a completely legitimate claim to say that what is happening is the result of the last government that chose to focus on gimmicks with the Rwanda scheme.'

Asked if the crossings were not Labour's fault, she insisted that the Government was taking responsibility now, but added: 'I don't believe it is our fault that it was enabled to take root in the way in which it has done by a government who failed to do what was necessary at that point.

Pictured: A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to the Border Force compound in Dover, Kent, from a Border Force vessel following a small boat incident in the Channel

A small boat arrives to collect migrant families from the beach on August 12, 2025

'The last government enabled this hideous criminal activity to really get its roots into Europe. There was a lengthy period at the time in which the criminal gangs... behind this had the opportunity to have this operation set up and really embedded.

'And that's the task that this Government now has  to deconstruct that.'

However, her attempt to evade responsibility was met with incredulity. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'The Government has confirmed 50,000 illegal immigrants have crossed the Channel in Labour's short time in power  the worst crisis in our history.

'Labour has surrendered our borders, and the consequences are being felt in our communities, from rising crime to shocking cases of rape and sexual assault by recent arrivals. Labour has scrapped Conservative deterrents and created the conditions for chaos, leaving the British people to foot the bill.'

Labour scrapped the Tories' Rwanda asylum deal  designed to deter migrants from crossing  as one of its first acts, pledging instead to 'smash the gangs' by boosting law enforcement.

However, small boat numbers are soaring, with 27,029 arrivals this year, up by 47 per cent on the same point last year and 67 per cent on the same point in 2023.

Since the start of the crisis in 2018, 178,167 migrants have reached Britain, with only about four per cent of them removed.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'It is our long-standing policy not to comment on individual cases, but we have made clear that it is unacceptable for any individual, whether they are a member of a smuggling gang or otherwise, to promote the criminal services of people-traffickers or for social media companies to allow it.

'We are introducing specific laws through our Border Security Bill that will make it easier to prosecute individuals who publish material online which promotes or offers services facilitating small boat crossings, and these kinds of cases show why it is so essential for that Bill to be passed through Parliament at the earliest opportunity.'

A TikTok spokesperson said: 'We take a zero-tolerance approach to content promoting human smuggling, this account has been banned and we remove the vast majority of content before it is even reported.

'Through industry-leading search interventions and close collaboration with the UK National Crime Agency, we work to identify and disrupt organised immigration crime online, adapting our efforts to meet evolving threats.'
A homeless man smiled and winked as he faced court charged with murdering a pregnant woman and decapitating her partner before putting the father-to-be's head on a spike.

Ross Judd, 34, wore a simple T-shirt as he fronted Melbourne Magistrates' Court in shackles and flanked by security on Wednesday morning.

Judd winked after he tripped as he came into the dock but then smiled throughout the brief filing hearing over the two counts of murder.

The prosecution asked the court for a ten-week extension because 'it's a complex crime scene with significant amounts of DNA evidence'.

The prosecutor also said autopsies were expected to be delayed, as alleged murder victim Athena Georgopoulos, 39, was five months pregnant when she died.

Daily Mail can reveal Ms Georgopoulos was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood Magistrates' Court on September 1 for car theft and burglary charges.

The alleged killer's legal aid lawyer did not oppose the unusually lengthy period to serve the brief, but told the court it was her client's first time in custody.

Judd also faces charges regarding previous allegations of making threats, the Daily Mail can reveal.

An artist's impression of Ross Judd who was charged with two counts of murder

Alleged murder victim Athena Georgopoulos, 39, was pregnant when she died

Ms Georgopoulos, 39, was allegedly killed alongside her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, (pictured) at their Mount Waverley home

The lawyer also said Judd needed to see the custody nurse for 'follow-up medication and physical health issues'.

Ms Georgopoulos, 39, was allegedly killed alongside her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, in what police believe was a targeted attack at their Mount Waverley home, in Melbourne's south-east.

On Wednesday, her mother Petty Georgopoulos paid tribute to her daughter in a heartbreaking post on social media.

'My little heart, you left life so unfairly that I still cannot believe it,' she said in the touching Facebook post.

'In recent days you were so happy - we made dreams together for our little granddaughter that you were going to bring into your life.

'And suddenly, everything was erased in one night, when an [alleged] murderer cut the thread of your life and of my little granddaughters life that you were going to bring into the world in four months.

'No matter how much they separated us, I will never stop loving you. Forever. Until we meet again, my little girl, in the light of the angels.'

She and Mr Gunn were found dead after police received calls from neighbours on Monday night about yelling coming from the property, and heavily armed police swarmed the Adrienne Crescent home at 9.55pm.

Ms Georgopoulos had also been the primary carer of her mother

Police had the area in lockdown as they investigated the horrific alleged crime

Inside the small unit, officers allegedly found Mr Gunn's mutilated body next to the body of Ms Georgopoulos.

Judd was arrested with two large dogs just hours later at nearby Westall Railway Station, about 6km from the crime scene, at around 1.40am on Tuesday.

Police allege Judd was known to the couple and that one of the victims lived in the unit, but they are still trying to establish the connection and alleged motive.

Ms Georgopoulos' aunt Patty Dilveridis said her niece was excited by the prospect of motherhood, and her mother Petty had recently met Mr Gunn's parents to celebrate their impending grandparenthood.

The dead woman worked as a customer service representative for several electricity and insurance companies, and had been Mr Gunn's partner for three years.

Several of Ms Georgopoulos' friends also posted tributes to the mum-to-be.

'Rest in peace sweet soul. Thank you for every smile you brought to my face. Thank you for every laugh (of which there were many).

'You were part of what made LUMO so fun to work at. I cant imagine what you went through in the end. You deserved so much better. Love you girl. Fly high,' one friend posted.

Investigators are also examining sinister graffiti scrawled outside the property

Ms Georgopoulos was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood Magistrates' Court on September 1 for car theft and burglary charges

Another wrote: 'Rest in peace Athena... what has this world come to? May you and your baby fly high. My condolences go out to your loved ones.'

Another friend posted: 'May you rest in peace Athena with your family... my sincerest sympathies are with your family and friends who will all feel the impact of your loss.'

Another wrote: 'R.I.P Tina I'm lost for words how the f*** can someone [allegedly] just kill someone?'

Investigators are examining if graffiti scrawled outside the property - including the phrases 'U R Gay,' 'Enough is Enough,' 'Betrayal,' and 'Karma' - is linked to the horror inside.

The messages were sprayed in luminous yellow-green and black paint on the home's fence and exterior walls.

Detective Inspector Dean Thomas from the Homicide Squad said police received several calls regarding the incident at the address prior to the grim discovery.

'Police were called at about 9.20pm in relation to a welfare check at the address based on some yelling that was heard from the property,' he said.

'A second call was then made that suggested it was perhaps more urgent than the first call and police arrived minutes later, and obviously they found the male and female inside the premises deceased.'

Several of Ms Georgopoulos' friends posted social media tributes for the slain mum-to-be

Det Insp Thomas said forensic crews and investigators would be at the scene for most of the day, and counselling was being offered to those living in neighbouring units.

One neighbour said he did not know the people at the house and had never heard of any trouble or police attending the unit prior to Monday night.

'It's a quiet area,' the man said.

A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed investigators were probing the graffiti.

'Police are aware of graffiti on the property in Mount Waverley where the bodies of two people were located last night,' the spokesperson said.

'Homicide Squad detectives will work to determine if the graffiti is relevant to the murder investigation.'

Det Insp Thomas said heavily armed specialist officers, assisted by the police helicopter, tracked the arrested man to the station, where he was taken into custody.

'The person that we took into custody was in the company of two large dogs, I think that would look fairly obvious to people who may have been in the area,' he added.
An Aussie tourist has shared an urgent warning after confronting a currency exchange converter in Bali and accusing them of trying to scam her.

The woman claimed she had visited a centre in Kuta on Monday after being lured in by false exchange rates on the signage at the front.

She said she still agreed to do business after learning the real rate - and converted around $94AUD in exchange for roughly $1million IDR.

The unsuspecting tourist then left the shop before she and her partner discovered they were missing $600,000 IDR.

Fraudulent converters will offer to count the exchanged cash for a final time after both parties are satisfied with the amount.

In the final count, the converter will use a sleight-of-hand technique to drop some of the cash back behind their desk.

The Australian filmed herself approaching the store worker to accuse him of conning her.

'Where's my money?' she asked him in the TikTok video.

An Aussie tourist has filmed the moment she confronted a money exchanger in Kuta, Bali, and accused him of shorting her by $60 AUD (above, the alleged scammer at work)

'My (IDR) $600,000, you dropped inside. I'm putting it on the internet now,' she said.

'You took it back, counted it again, dropped 600.'

The vendor then fumbled around and eventually handed the woman a wad of notes from his drawer.

The tourist gave it to her partner, asking him to count the notes.

'Why do you do that to people? It's not nice,' she asked the cashier.

'We come here to give you business and you take away from us.'

'Yes, I'm sorry,' he replied.

Social media users said they had experienced similar scams in Bali.

Other tourists (above, in Ubud, Bali) said they had also experienced the scam, which sees converters drop notes behind their counters as they 'check' the money

'I learnt about this kind of scam on my first trip to Bali in 2006,' one said.

'My best friend and I were naive young travellers, and only realised when we got back to our hotel and were joking around about having 1million Rupiah, only to count it and realise several hundred thousand were missing.'

She said the vendors acted innocent until she threatened to call the police.

A second said they had also fallen victim to the trap.

'I lost about AUD$100, [it] was 30min away from my hotel so [I] didnt bother going back. [I] looked at it as a donation to Balinese people, but sucks they scammed,' he wrote.

Another viewer said money exchanges may give cash to clients in the form of 'lots of little notes' to add to the confusion.

'These money changers are minefields. Been like this for over 30 years,' another noted.
Hamas has praised Anthony Albanese's decision to recognise Palestine as a state, with the listed terror group claiming it vindicates their October 7 massacre.

The Prime Minister revealed on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month, following similar commitments made by other Western allies, including the UK, France, and Canada.

He insisted the move would be 'totally opposed' by Hamas, who the Palestinian Authority had assured him would play no role in any future state.

But Sheikh Hassan Yousef, a co-founder of Hamas and one of the terror group's most senior figures in the West Bank, has welcomed the Labor government's move and called on other Western nations to follow suit.

'We welcome Australias decision to recognise the state of Palestine, and consider it an important step towards achieving justice for our people and securing their legitimate rights,' Yousef told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'This position reflects political courage and a commitment to the values of justice and the right of peoples to self-determination.

'We call on all countries, especially those that believe in freedom and human dignity, to follow Australias example and translate their positions into practical steps to support the Palestinian people and end their suffering under occupation.'

Yousef, who is considered one of the spiritual leaders of Hamas, even said Albanese's decision had vindicated the October 7 attacks.

Sheikh Hassan Yousef (pictured), a co-founder of Hamas and one of the terror group's most senior figures in the West Bank, has welcomed the Labor government's move to recognise Palestinian statehood, claiming it justifies their October 7 attack

'Yes, we believe that the escalation of armed resistance, including the operations carried out on October 7, has significantly contributed to highlighting the suffering of the Palestinian people and the injustice they face,' he told the paper.

'These operations have drawn global attention to the Palestinian cause and compelled many countries and organisations to reconsider their positions, leading to greater support and recognition of Palestine as a state by some countries.

'Resistance has proven to be an effective means to break the siege and bring the Palestinian cause back to the international discussion table.'

This stands in stark contrast to Albanese's claim that Hamas would be 'unhappy' about the Australia's decision to recognise Palestine as a state.

'Ive seen some of the comments that have been made about Hamas somehow being rewarded. Hamas is opposed to two states. This is the opposite of what Hamas wants,' the Prime Minister told Today.

Albanese said on Monday that his government's backing of Palestinian statehood was contingent on the promise that Hamas would play no future role in the Palestinian state, free elections would be held and that he the region will demilitarise.

But Yousef insisted that Hamas would not consider any elections legitimate unless Hamas were on the ballot paper.

'We believe that elections must be inclusive of all Palestinian factions, and excluding Hamas means sidelining a large segment of Palestinians,' he told the SMH.

Anthony Albanese had previously insisted the move would be 'totally opposed' by Hamas, who the Palestinian Authority had assured him would play no role in any future state (pictured: Albanese is confronted by protesters while touring the the Royal Queensland Show in Brisbane on Wednesday)

'Only through free and fair elections in which everyone participates can the true legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority be achieved.'

A government spokesperson said: 'What Australia has done is contribute international momentum towards a two-state solution, which Hamas opposes.

'We are supporting the Arab Leagues efforts to isolate Hamas.

'Hamas always tries to manipulate facts for their own propaganda. Media have a responsibility to make professional judgements to not promote propaganda of terrorist organisations to get cynical headlines.'

Labor's long-awaited announcement triggered a flurry of furious criticism from Israel, Jewish groups in Australia and the Opposition, all of whom accused them of playing into Hamas's hands by effectively 'rewarding terrorism'.

Israel's ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon unleashed on the decision, claiming 'peace is built by ending terror, not rewarding it'.

'By recognising a Palestinian state while Hamas continues to kill, kidnap and reject peace, Australia undermines Israel's security, derails hostage negotiations and hands a victory to those who oppose coexistence,' Mr Maimon said.

He added: 'Rewarding those who use terror as a political tool sends the dangerous message that violence brings political gains.'

'By recognising a Palestinian state now, Australia elevates the position of Hamas, a group it acknowledges as a terrorist organisation, while weakening the cause of those working to end violence and achieve genuine, lasting peace.'

Meanwhile, Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ) president Daniel Aghion KC effectively predicted Yousef's response when he said: 'Hamas and other Islamist groups will see that barbarity on a grand scale can lead to desired political transformation.'

The crisis in Gaza began when Hamas terrorists stormed the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking around 250 more hostage.

It represented the worst massacre of Jews in a single day since the Holocaust.

In the two years since, Israel's military response has killed more than 61,000 people, according to Gaza's health authorities.

Australia has listed Hamas as a terrorist organisation since 2022.
A Los Angeles postal worker has admitted to stealing people's checks and credit cards from their mail while flaunting stacks of cash on social media.

Mary Ann Magdamit, 31, of Carson, California, an ex-employee of the US Postal Service in Torrance, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

She was arrested for the crime that victimized individuals, as well as federal banks and credit unions, on July 1 and has remained in custody since.

From at least 2022 to July 2025, Magadamit abused her letter carrier position, according to a statement from the US Attorney's Office.

She snatched checks, personal identifying information, debit cards and credit cards en route to people's mailboxes - all while sharing pictures of herself posing with thick wads of money on the internet.

In one picture, she donned a Yankee hat while leaning a stack of bills that spanned the length of her face up against it.

She sprawled out a fan of bills - about half of which appeared to have been hundreds - across her lap in a car in another shot.

Magdamit activated the bank cards online and used them to make massive purchases with the stolen funds, including lavish trips to Aruba and Turks and Caicos.

Mary Ann Magdamit, 31, posed with a stack of cash up against her face and shared it on social media

Magdamit held a glass of champagne as she lounged by an infinity pool, writing 'life is gooood'

In a photo uploaded to her Instagram story, Magdamit held a glass of champagne as she lounged by an infinity pool, writing 'life is gooood.'

She even dished out some of the cards to her co-conspirators and made them fraudulently cash the stolen checks 'using counterfeit identity documents in the name of the checks payee,' the statement reads.

Magdamit's digital footprint seemingly sounded the alarm to authorities and led them straight to her door when they picked up on the mysterious missing mail pattern in the Torrance area.

Her apartment was raided in December 2024 in connection with the scheme, and investigators were greeted with a slew of incriminating evidence.

Law enforcement seized 133 stolen debit and credit cards, 16 US Department of Treasury checks and a loaded ghost gun with an extended 27-round magazine, the Attorney's Office wrote.

A ghost gun is an unserialized Glock-style gun assembled by its owner, often forgoing the licensing required to be a legal weapon.

But she was not arrested until about seven months later after agents discovered Magdamit had not learned her lesson.

She had continued splurging on items with hefty price tags and the feds caught on once again.

She sprawled out a fan of bills - about half of which appeared to have been hundreds - across her lap in a car

Magdamit's digital footprint seemingly sounded the alarm to authorities (pictured: stacks of money she posted)

They probed her apartment once again, finding more stolen cards. The office did not share the exact number.

But they did note that Magdamit 'agreed to forfeit a Rolex watch and other luxury goods.'

She is due to appear in court on October 27 and faces a maximum of 30 years in federal prison.

Mail theft in general has become an increasingly pressing issue across the nation.

In an audit report shared by the USPS in 2023, the agency was found to have had a plan in place to tackle the matter, but it was not being well executed.

'We found they do not have deployment timelines with actionable milestones to fully implement planned initiatives to address mail theft,' the report reads.

'We also found that the Postal Service lacks accountability for their arrow keys, which are often a target in carrier robberies and are used to commit mail theft.'

In another report, which was released in May using data from 2024, the agency revealed more than 58 million packages were stolen during the year.

Mail theft in general has become an increasingly pressing issue across the nation (file photo)

The Office of Inspector General published an internal report for 2024 that specifically addressed the problem of 'internal mail theft.'

The document alleged that criminal groups are 'targeting, recruiting and colluding with postal employees to move narcotics through the postal network and to steal checks  both personal and government-issued checks  credit cards and other valuables from the mail.'
Text messages between a retired Australian Army major and the wife he is accused of killing reveal the alleged fallout of an affair he had while posted to Papua New Guinea.

In one message, Jacqueline Davidson appeared to refer to her husband Graeme's lover as a 'black count' and accused the pair of having sex while she was trying to call him.

Graeme Davidson, now 56, is accused of drowning 54-year-old Jacqueline while they were kayaking north of Brisbane in November 2020, two years after the affair.

Jacqueline's death was initially treated as an accident, but after a coronial investigation, the father of her three children was arrested in May and charged with murder.

The career military man was also charged with fraud offences related to claims on Jacqueline's superannuation and life insurance policy totalling about $1.2million.

Davidson moved to Thailand four months after his wife died, and in December 2022 married Patsatraporn Tepcumpa, also known as Pick Pattraporn, who was more than 20 years his junior.

He had flown back to Brisbane to attend his eldest daughter's wedding when police pounced on him, and spent the next three months in prison.

Davidson was granted bail last week after a hearing in the Brisbane Supreme Court, where details emerged of an affair he had with a local PNG woman.

Retired Army major Graeme Davidson is accused of drowning his wife Jacqueline (both pictured) while they were kayaking, a year after she learnt he had been having an affair

Davidson moved to Thailand four months after his wife died and in December 2022 married Patsatraporn Tepcumpa, also known as Pick Pattraporn (above)

The accused killer does not dispute having the affair but insists there is no evidence Jacqueline had been contemplating leaving him in the lead-up to her death.

Scottish-born Davidson spent 22 years in the British Army and rose to the rank of captain, before donning an Australian uniform for 11 more years in service of his new homeland.

In late 2018, he was posted to PNG and began an affair which his wife discovered when an unnamed friend of the woman sharing her husband's bed contacted her a year later.

Details of what allegedly happened next were outlined in written submissions tendered by Crown prosecutor Caroline Marco at Davidson's bail application.

According to those submissions, Jacqueline's friend Amanda Herron was living in the same PNG complex as the Davidsons when the affair was revealed on June 23, 2019.

Sometime after midnight, Ms Herron 'was woken by [Jacqueline] at the door and returned to the apartment she shared with [Davidson] where she observed property damage'.

'[Jacqueline] told her that [Davidson] had been cheating on her. A friend of the young lady involved had sent the deceased messages to prove it.'

Davidson was granted leave and returned to Australia with his wife on June 25. He later applied for a reposting so he would not have to go back to PNG.

Davidson was granted bail last week after a hearing in which details emerged of an affair he had with a PNG woman. He is pictured with one of his daughters on August 8

According to the Crown's written submissions, Jacqueline continued to confide in Ms Herron as she was 'trying to figure out what she wanted'.

'[Davidson] was continually apologising and wanted to put it behind them but [Jacqueline] said that [Davidson] said those things to her in an "angry tone",' the submissions stated.

'[Jacqueline] shared with her the messages that she had received about the other woman and asked her to keep a copy, which she did.'

Once back in Brisbane, Jacqueline 'was finding it very hard to deal with the affair and talked about it a lot', according to the Crown submissions.

Jacqueline told her friend Emmanuelle Jean-Baptiste she had been sent pictures of her husband with the other woman and 'that led to an argument and [Davidson] losing his role'.

On July 21, Jacqueline sent Ms Jean-Baptiste a text which began: 'Hi ya update for you I sent him the pics last night & he was so shocked that id seen his affair pics over the that length of time.'

'He said he had no idea the pics were taken and admitted to having her living with him for a short time... probs months.

'He's trying to delete face book and messenger as hes sure thats how they are contacting me. I can't believe he moved her in... she told him she had no where to live.'

Jacqueline's death was initially treated as an accident, but after a coronial investigation, the father of her three children was arrested in May and charged with murder

In another message to the same friend, Jacqueline wrote: 'Can you look at her Instagram pic and check the date of the hotel pics... I'm sure he just booked the most expensive one in PNG for them.'

Communications between Davidson and his wife of 35 years 'showed the strain the affair had on their marriage', according to the Crown's submissions.

On September 4, 2019, Davidson told Jacqueline: 'Still thinking of you. I'm sorry what I said could be taken like an ultimatum when we are in a fragile place. I didn't mean to rock the boat!'

On October 1, Jacqueline told Davidson: 'Check the time when I was calling you, you were f***ing. Didn't even comment. Check time still f***ing black count. And still no comment.'

Less than an hour later, Davidson responded: 'I can't change what is in the past, so I'm concentrating on the present and future. I'm so sorry for the pain and anger that I've caused you.

'I'll never do a single thing to cause you pain or anger in the future. I don't know what else I can do and I'm doing it as transparently as possible.

'This is considered and I am utterly committed. I hope its enough for you. I think "us" is fantastic and I won't ever let go or let you down in the future of us.'

According to the Crown's submissions, Jacqueline told Ms Jean-Baptiste she had spoken to Davidson about divorce but that conversation 'didn't go well'.

Davidson's barrister Craig Eberhardt KC (left) and Crown prosecutor Caroline Marco (right) tendered written submissions for the accused killer's bail application

'[Davidson] was focused on their finances and calculated what would happen if they separated,' the submissions continued.

'[Davidson] said to [Jacqueline] that he would fight for what he had and she would not end up with a lot. He wanted their house... and said his army pension was his.'

Jacqueline drowned while kayaking with Davidson in separate vessels on Lake Samsonvale on November 27, 2020. The prosecution's case is circumstantial.

Three weeks after his wife's body was pulled from the lake, Davidson successfully claimed $287,280.65 from her superannuation death benefit.

He made another claim on her $950,000 life insurance policy which has not been paid.

Davidson's daughters, nurse Brooke and high school teacher Robyn, as well as son Hamish, who lives in Thailand, are all supporting him.

In Davidson's written submissions for his bail application, barrister Craig Eberhardt stated his client had never been violent towards Jacqueline.

'It is self-evident that many marriages experience difficulties, including infidelity,' Mr Eberhardt said.

'Although tragically too common, there is a dramatic difference between the frequency of divorce and the frequency of intimate partner homicide.

'Despite the discord that the affair caused the relationship in 2019, there is no suggestion of domestic disharmony, let alone domestic violence, in 2020.

'There is no evidence that Jacqueline was contemplating leaving [Davidson] in November 2020 or that the applicant believed she would leave him.'

Mr Eberhardt submitted Davidson would not receive a trial listing until late 2026 at the earliest and 'it could well take much longer than that' for him to go before a jury.
A 42-year-old man who had been left behind in wilderness near a lake known to visitors as 'Dead Body Soup' by his family at a birthday party was rescued after two days on his own.

The unidentified man was left behind at the Lake Mead reservoir which stretches across Arizona and Nevada and often sees travelers lost to the parks strikingly blue waters.

From 2013 to 2023, the park officially averaged about 21 deaths a year, far surpassing those at the Grand Canyon and Yosemite, which rank as the second and third deadliest parks with an average of 13 and 11 fatalities each year, respectively.

But the real number is likely way higher as some people are never reported missing and it can take decades for a corpse to be found in the water, washed up on shore or spotted in the wilderness.

Sure enough, officials with the Mohave County Sheriff's Office were searching for a different person in the park on July 29 when a nearby fisherman dialed 911.

The fisherman told officers that he'd heard someone crying for help and begging for any water nearby.

Deputies found their initial missing person and then contacted the National Park Service.

The man was last seen at the park two nights earlier at a party with his family, who ultimately left him behind after he could not be found.

A 42-year-old man who had been left behind in wilderness near a lake known to visitors as 'Dead Body Soup' by his family was rescued after two days on his own

The unidentified man was left behind at the Lake Mead reservoir which stretches across Arizona and Nevada and often sees travelers lost to the parks strikingly blue waters

The sheriff's office said that they had 'left a few supplies behind for him before leaving the area.'

However, they did not report him as missing until noon the next day, hours after they'd last seen him.

As they got to the Kingman Wash area where they'd initially been called from, fishermen echoed the 911 call in saying they'd hear a man crying for help.

Eventually, rescuers found the man on a steep hill just west of Kingman Wash.

When they recovered him, the man had no food or water and wasn't wearing a shirt.

They immediately replenished him with some water and electrolytes before taking him in for medical treatment.

'It remains unclear why Mohave County was not initially notified of the missing person report filed with NPS the day before,' said the sheriff's office in a statement.

The sheriff also thanked the rescuers and search teams for their efforts.

Officials with the Mohave County Sheriff's Office were searching for a different person in the park on July 29 when a nearby fisherman dialed 911

The man was last seen at the park two nights earlier at a party with his family, who ultimately left him behind after he could not be found

The lost man has yet to be publicly identified nor has a reason been given for his disappearance or the slow report of his going missing.

The lake is actually a reservoir  the largest in the US, formed after the federal government built Hoover Dam on the Colorado River about 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas.

Now part of the National Park Service, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area includes lakes Mead and Mohave, along with 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and shoreline in Southern Nevada and Northwestern Arizona.

The Daily Mail reported in May that the bodies of bankrupt gamblers, cuckolded spouses, depressed teens and terminally ill patients have been found in its water and along its shoreline.

Several people have also jumped to their deaths from Hoover Dam and off a bridge next to it that's 1,500 feet from the lake.

Scientists, water planners, politicians, climate activists and student groups from around the world make trips to Lake Mead, snapping pictures of the ring as glaring proof of climate change and visible evidence of urgent flaws in Western water policy.

Receding lake water has exposed other objects of interest, including a World War II Higgins landing craft believed to have sunk in the lake in the 1940s.
Reality TV star Matt Wright visited a pilot while he was heavily sedated in hospital following a deadly helicopter crash, asking him to manipulate flying hour records, a court has been told.

Outback Wrangler co-star Chris 'Willow' died in the February 2022 accident, falling to the ground from a sling beneath the chopper while collecting crocodile eggs in remote swampland in the Northern Territory.

The aircraft then crashed, seriously injuring pilot Sebastian Robinson. Now a paraplegic, he gave evidence at the Supreme Court in Darwin by video link from his wheelchair on Wednesday.

Wright is on trial on three charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice, having pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors allege he was worried crash investigators would discover that flight-time meters were disconnected regularly to extend flying hours beyond official thresholds and that paperwork was falsified.

Mr Robinson told the court Wright visited him in Royal Brisbane Hospital 10 days after the crash when he was still in very bad shape, heavily sedated with 'tubes coming out of me everywhere'.

Crown prosecutor Jason Gullaci SC asked the 32-year-old what Wright had asked of him at his hospital bedside and he replied 'to manipulate hours on my aircraft'.

'He asked if I would consider putting any of his hours, from his helicopter, onto my helicopter.'

Matt Wright - star of Netflix's 'Outback Wrangler' - attends the NT Supreme Court with his wie, Kaia

Dani Wright, the widow of Chris 'Willow' Wilson, has regularly attended the criminal trial

Chopper pilot Sebastian Robinson, above

The court was told Mr Robinson was being asked to put egg-collecting hours flown on Wright's crashed helicopter onto his own helicopter, which was not fitted with equipment for egg collecting.

Mr Robinson said he told Wright he would think about his request and when he made a return visit the next day told him 'I didn't feel comfortable doing it'.

Wright had also asked to go through his phone and 'delete a few things', Mr Robinson said.

At the time he was 'scared and panicked' and didn't know who to trust, he said.

The crash and his life-changing injuries had been 'the hardest thing I've ever had to deal with in my life'.

The court was told Mr Robinson was asked to fly egg-collecting missions in Arnhem Land, where COVID restrictions were in place, because Wright was an anti-vaxxer so could not enter the Indigenous territory unvaccinated.

Jurors heard that Wright visited Mr Robinson in hospital despite requirements to show a COVID vaccination certificate and having to complete a test for the virus.

The charges against Wright do not relate to the cause of the accident and the prosecution does not allege he is responsible for either the crash, Mr Wilson's death or Mr Robinson's injuries.

The trial continues.
A neighbour has told of the gruesome scene he discovered when he entered the Melbourne house of horror where a pregnant woman was allegedly murdered and her partner's decapitated head left on a spike.

'No one should have to come across what I saw down there,' said Ben Scott-Sandvik, who lives at the front unit in Mount Waverley block where the alleged double-murders took place.

'And nobody needs to live knowing that this sort of thing has happened to their families.'

Mr Scott-Sandvik spoke to the Herald Sun after the accused killer Ross Judd, 34, appeared at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

Judd smiled and winked as he faced court charged with murdering pregnant woman Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and decapitating her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, before putting the father-to-be's head on a spike.

The homeless accused killer winked after he tripped as he came into the dock but then smiled throughout the brief filing hearing over the two counts of murder.

The prosecution asked the court for a ten-week extension because 'it's a complex crime scene with significant amounts of DNA evidence'.

The prosecutor also said autopsies were expected to be delayed, as alleged murder victim Athena Georgopoulos, 39, was five months pregnant when she died.

An artist's impression of Ross Judd, 34, who fronted court today charged with two counts of murder

Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and Andrew Gunn, 50, were allegedly murdered at their Mount Waverley home

Ms Georgopoulos was five months pregnant when she died

Daily Mail can reveal Ms Georgopoulos was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood Magistrates' Court on September 1 for car theft and burglary charges.

The alleged killer's legal aid lawyer did not oppose the unusually lengthy period to serve the brief, but told the court it was her client's first time in custody.

Judd also faces charges regarding previous allegations of making threats, the Daily Mail can reveal.

The lawyer also said Judd needed to see the custody nurse for 'follow-up medication and physical health issues'.

Ms Georgopoulos was allegedly killed alongside Mr Gunn in what police believe was a targeted attack at their Mount Waverley home, in Melbourne's south-east.

On Wednesday, her mother Petty Georgopoulos paid tribute to her daughter in a heartbreaking post on social media.

'My little heart, you left life so unfairly that I still cannot believe it,' she said in the touching Facebook post.

'In recent days you were so happy - we made dreams together for our little granddaughter that you were going to bring into your life.

Family have friends have paid tribute to Ms Georgopolous

Judd was arrested at Westall train station which is 6km from the Mount Waverley unit

'And suddenly, everything was erased in one night, when an [alleged] murderer cut the thread of your life and of my little granddaughters life that you were going to bring into the world in four months.

'No matter how much they separated us, I will never stop loving you. Forever. Until we meet again, my little girl, in the light of the angels.'

She and Mr Gunn were found dead after police received calls from neighbours on Monday night about yelling coming from the property, and heavily armed police swarmed the Adrienne Crescent home at 9.55pm.

Inside the small unit, officers allegedly found Mr Gunn's mutilated body next to the body of Ms Georgopoulos.

Judd was arrested with two large dogs just hours later at nearby Westall Railway Station, about 6km from the crime scene, at around 1.40am on Tuesday.

Police allege Judd was known to the couple and that one of the victims lived in the unit, but they are still trying to establish the connection and alleged motive.

Ms Georgopoulos' aunt Patty Dilveridis said her niece was excited by the prospect of motherhood, and her mother Petty had recently met Mr Gunn's parents to celebrate their impending grandparenthood.

Investigators are examining if graffiti scrawled outside the property is linked to the horror inside

The dead woman worked as a customer service representative for several electricity and insurance companies, and had been Mr Gunn's partner for three years.

Ms Georgopoulos' cousin also posted a heartfelt tribute to the slain mum-to-be.

'My heart is completely broken,' the heartfelt post read.

'My dear cousin, you and your unborn baby were taken away too soon in the most devastating and senseless way. There are no words for this kind of pain - no way to understand why someone so full of life, love and promise could be taken away from us so violently.

'Rest in peace Athena, and your baby girl. We will never forget you. We will honour your memory and carry your love with us forever.

'May God grant your parents, brother, and your loved ones strength during this difficult time.'

Police had the area in lockdown as they investigated the gruesome alleged crime scene

Several of Ms Georgopoulos' friends also posted tributes to the mum-to-be.

'Rest in peace sweet soul. Thank you for every smile you brought to my face. Thank you for every laugh (of which there were many).

'You were part of what made LUMO so fun to work at. I cant imagine what you went through in the end. You deserved so much better. Love you girl. Fly high,' one friend posted.

Another wrote: 'Rest in peace Athena... what has this world come to? May you and your baby fly high. My condolences go out to your loved ones.'

Another friend posted: 'May you rest in peace Athena with your family... my sincerest sympathies are with your family and friends who will all feel the impact of your loss.'

Another wrote: 'R.I.P Tina I'm lost for words how the f*** can someone [allegedly] just kill someone?'

Investigators are examining if graffiti scrawled outside the property - including the phrases 'U R Gay,' 'Enough is Enough,' 'Betrayal,' and 'Karma' - is linked to the horror inside.

Ms Georgopoulos was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood Magistrates' Court on September 1 for car theft and burglary charges

The messages were sprayed in luminous yellow-green and black paint on the home's fence and exterior walls.

Detective Inspector Dean Thomas from the Homicide Squad said police received several calls regarding the incident at the address prior to the grim discovery.

'Police were called at about 9.20pm in relation to a welfare check at the address based on some yelling that was heard from the property,' he said.

'A second call was then made that suggested it was perhaps more urgent than the first call and police arrived minutes later, and obviously they found the male and female inside the premises deceased.'

A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed investigators were probing the graffiti.

'Police are aware of graffiti on the property in Mount Waverley where the bodies of two people were located last night,' the spokesperson said.

'Homicide Squad detectives will work to determine if the graffiti is relevant to the murder investigation.'

Det Insp Thomas said heavily armed specialist officers, assisted by the police helicopter, tracked the arrested man to the station, where he was taken into custody.

'The person that we took into custody was in the company of two large dogs, I think that would look fairly obvious to people who may have been in the area,' he added.
The public have been told by a police chief they should stand up to shoplifters themselves and not rely on bobbies on the beat for help.

Matthew Barber, the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley said tackling thieves was not just a job for police and criticised onlookers for simply filming instances of crime.

Mr Barber criticised the public for being 'part of the problem' and encouraged shop owners to to deal with thieves themselves.

At a meeting of the Thames Valley police and crime panel in June, the PCC said: 'If youve got someone in your store now stealing from you, call 999.

'Also ideally try and stop them leaving, dont just stand there and watch, which a lot of people do, which frustrates me.'

He added that he wasn't suggesting everybody 'take it upon themselves to rugby tackle' shoplifters but that everyone should take on the responsibility in their own communities.

Mr Barber then doubled down on his comments and said he was concerned that the UK had become a 'very poor society' with the public simply refusing to involve themselves in tackling crime.

At a meeting of the Thames Valley police and crime panel in June (pictured), the PCC told the public to call 999 if they witness a crime or step in and stop the thief

The number of shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales has passed half a million for the first time, figures show. Pictured is a thief in action

A dramatic surge in shoplifting across English pharmacies in the last year has seen shelves raided by brazen thieves and helpless staff aggressively abused, according to a new study

It comes after shop owner, Rob Davies, 61, (pictured) was told by police to change a sign outside his business calling shoplifters 'scumbags' because it may be offensive

He told The Telegraph: 'The idea that this is just a job for the police, citizens have no responsibility, put your head down, carry on, dont get involved, I think that makes for a very poor society.'

Mr Barber emphasised the public should not get involved in stopping a crime if it was dangerous and the police should be there but he suggested that it wasn't 'right' for passers-by to watch on and ignore crime if they see it.

Kemi Badenoch said that the public need to acknowledge that police officers can't be everywhere all the time and encouraged communities to come together and help.

The Conservative leader added that she would probably intervene if she witnessed a shoplifter because 'That is the sort of person I am'.

The comments come as the UK continues to battle a crimewave with shoplifters terrorising high streets across the country.

The number of shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales has passed half a million for the first time, figures show.

An astonishing 516,971 offences were logged by forces last year, up 20 per cent from 429,873 in 2023.

The figure is the highest since current police records began 22 year ago in 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

But rather than support the public in tackling the scourge, police are hitting out at business owners instead.

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The public have been told by Matthew Barber, the Conservative PCC for Thames Valley (pictured) that they should stand up to shoplifters themselves and not rely on bobbies on the beat for help

It comes after a shop owner was left stunned when police told him to change a sign outside his business calling shoplifters 'scumbags' because it may be offensive.

Rob Davies, 61, who runs the Run Ragged vintage shop in Wrexham, North Wales, installed the notice to tell shoppers some cabinets were locked against theft.

The hard-working retailer put it up after he caught five thieves red-handed in the last 12 months alone and lost roughly 200 of stock to shoplifting.

He felt the police did little to help when he reported the five thefts and so he gave up doing so, instead taking matters into his own hands to protect his small business.

His handmade note reads: 'Due to scumbags shoplifting, please ask for assistance to open cabinets.'

But to his surprise, after months of frustration with the police, officers turned up to the shop - though only to tell him to remove the sign.

On Monday it emerged that the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) warned that naming and shaming suspects could 'breach data protection'.

Asked if it was right to display images of thieves in shop windows, Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones told Radio 4's Today programme: 'What we do know is that shoplifting has got out of hand in the country.'

Undercover police officers have started a new campaign to crack down on men catcalling female runners - by posing as joggers themselves. PC Abby Hayward is pictured on the left

But she did not say whether she supported the public tackling the wave of shoplifting themselves.

On an advice page for tackling shoplifters, the ICO said stores 'must only share personal information that's proportionate and necessary to achieve your purpose'.

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick called the advice 'madness' and suggested shoplifters should be 'named and shamed', slamming the red tape that it holding back shoplifters from being caught.

It comes as as Surrey Police tasked officers with going undercover to crack down on men catcalling female runners - by posing as joggers themselves.

Police sent two officers out running at rush hour to show the scale of harassment that women are facing.

'These behaviours may not be criminal offences in themselves, but they need to be addressed,' a spokesman for the force said about the patrols.

During the operation, plain clothes police officers, who were dressed in athletic jogging gear, headed to areas identified as 'harassment hotspots'.

Meanwhile, specialist units waited nearby to intervene at the first sign of abuse.
She dropped into Double Bay to get wads of cash from the bank

The mysterious heiress behind the wheel of a $1.5million Tiffany blue Rolls-Royce that was wrecked in a head-on crash has been spotted in a ritzy suburb wearing an outfit worth almost as much as her car.

Masked millionairess LanLan Yang, 23, made a dash to a bank ATM in Double Bay in Sydney's well-heeled eastern suburbs to replenish her wads of cash on Wednesday.

She was driven there by her new minder in a minivan after she was banned from driving following a horror collision in Rose Bay more than two weeks ago.

The dramatic late night crash left Kyle Sandilands' chauffeur George Plassaras in a coma with multiple broken bones after her Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV ploughed into his Mercedes van.

She emerged unscathed from the crash but allegedly refused to take a breath test at the police station following her arrest at the scene.

On Wednesday afternoon, she reported to Rose Bay police station as part of her bail conditions, dressed head to toe in very expensive designer gear.

She wore an exclusive vintage Chanel jacket worth more than $18,000 and matching cap retailing at over $3,000.

Her high-end designer earrings and brooch are believed to be essentially priceless and only available to an elite clientele who don't care - or ask - about prices.

The petite 23-year-old seen leaving Rose Bay Police station after reporting for bail

One eastern suburbs insider estimated the jewellery could be worth 'hundreds of thousands...maybe even more'.

She finished the look with a pair of vintage Chanel Camelia pumps worth a cool $1,500 and a pair of Mui Mui sunglasses valued at around $750.

The Daily Mail confronted Ms Yang as she exited a bank after after withdrawing wads of $50 notes from the ATM.

Ms Yang, who was once again hidden behind a facemask, was flanked by her personal chauffeur who looked more like a personal bodyguard.

She refused to answer questions about her mysterious wealth that has intrigued the nation, including rumours her fortune stems from the iron ore trade.

She is due to face Downing Centre Local Court on Friday over her traffic charges but would not elaborate on her state of mind or whether she will be supported by family.

Instead she kept her head bowed as she returned to her $100,000 2024 Toyota Vellfire minivan.

Despite its high price, it is still a far cry from the Roller she wrecked - or the SPARE 2018 Roll-Royce Ghost Convertible she keeps unregistered in the garage of her apartment block

LanLan retreated to her minivan after reporting for bail

Yang's extraordinary apparent wealth has sparked widespread interest in Australia - particularly after the Daily Mail revealed she owned two Rolls-Royces and lived in a luxury apartment in Vaucluse in Sydney's eastern suburbs.

And in recent days, the speculation has taken off in China, where she has become the subject of wild, inaccurate claims that had gone viral on Chinese platforms Douyin and Weibo, plus mainstream Chinese media reports.

A series of widely-viewed Chinese social media posts falsely claimed that Yang paid an $80million bond to get bail.

They also claimed, without naming a source or providing any corroboration, that authorities found she had $270billion in her bank account after her arrest.

The first claim about the bond is demonstrably false - a court spokesperson told the Daily Mail there was 'no monetary condition stipulated by police' as part of her bail agreement.

Days after the crash, Daily Mail confronted her to ask about her alleged victim's injuries, however she shielded her face from the onslaught of cameras.

The designer-loving heiress briefly removed her mask during her visit to the bank

Mystery surrounds her astonishing wealth

She was seen withdrawing wads of $50 notes from an ATM at a bank branch in well-heeled Double Bay in Sydneys east

Her garage uses a car lift that can only take 3,000kg, which is likely why she opted to park her other luxury vehicle - that costs more than many people's houses - on her residential street instead of keeping it undercover.

While very little is known about Yang or how she obtained her substantial wealth, neighbours from her upmarket building described her as 'polite' and 'shy' when they were approached.

They also added the young resident, who occupies the building's prized penthouse apartment, decorated her car with the mega-exclusive Labubu toys.

'She decorates the front of the car with those Labubus - it's cute,' the neighbour revealed.

Another neighbour added she was rarely seen at the property.

Radio host Kyle Sandilands spoke about the incident days after the July 26 crash and called his chauffeur the 'greatest employee ever'.

'What did [he] say when he was taken away in the ambulance? He asked for his mobile phone so he could do what?' he said.

'This is a guy at 4.30 in the morning after he has been cut out of his vehicle, he's been trapped in his van for an hour, this poor bloke.

The crash was captured on nearby CCTV which appeared to show Yang's luxury SUV allegedly veering into oncoming traffic before the collision

Mr Plassaras had to be cut from his vehicle before he was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a stable condition

The Daily Mail previously revealed Yang also owns a second unregistered white Rolls-Royce Ghost Convertible worth up to $800,000

'And he asks the ambo: 'Get my phone so I can make sure Kyle's all right for the week.'

Mr Plassaras had to be cut from his vehicle before he was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a stable condition.

The head-on crash left Mr Plassaras with a broken spine, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen and diaphragm, a torn open abdomen, two broken hips and two broken femurs.

He could be heard yelling for help inside the crushed vehicle, as emergency crews from NSW Police Rescue and Fire and Rescue NSW worked to free him.

The crash was captured on nearby CCTV which appeared to show Yang's luxury SUV allegedly veering into oncoming traffic before the collision.

Her Rolls-Royce and his Mercedes are being held in a secure lot in Alexandria pending a police investigation.

When she was taken to Waverley Police Station following the crash, police allege Yang refused to undergo a breath analysis.
Thames Water could be sold to a Chinese infrastructure company after the government places it in temporary public ownership to 'wipe' out much of its 16.8billion debt.

Steve Reed, the environment secretary is understood to be making 'active preparations' to essentially nationalise Britain's largest water utility by putting it into a special administration scheme (SAR) while the government looks for a new buyer.

One of the leading contenders is CK Infrastructure Holdings (CKI), a Hong Kong based company, which could take over Thames Water within weeks of it going into special administration, The Times reported.

CKI already owns Northumbrian Water and UK Power Networks and has said it would be ready to introduce tougher fines for environmental infringements, which Thames Water's creditors say is financially unviable.

Yesterday, Mr Reed approved the appointment of FTI Consulting to advise on contingency plans for Thames Water to be placed into special administration.

This would guarantee that even if Thames Water collapses, customers would continue to receive water and sewerage services.

However, it could make taxpayers responsible for the billions of pounds of bailout costs at a time when public finances are already severely constrained.

The administration process can only be put in motion in the event that a company becomes insolvent, can no longer fulfil its statutory duties or breaches an enforcement order.

Thames Water could be sold to a Chinese infrastructure company after the government places it in temporary public ownership to 'wipe' out much of its 16.8billion debt

Yesterday, Mr Reed approved the appointment of FTI Consulting to advise on contingency plans for Thames Water to be placed into special administration

Thames Water has been in financial crisis since the spring of last year when international shareholders quit the company because they felt it was no longer investable

But the government could force a company into special administration if it does not agree to the bailout terms being proposed by creditors.



Mr Reed has previously stressed his desire to avoid taking Thames into temporary public ownership, but has said that he was ready for 'all eventualities'.

Two senior government sources told the Times the situation had changed and a taxpayer bailout was the most likely option.

One said: 'The political benefits of an SAR are apparent to us and it is now something we are looking very seriously at and preparing for it to happen.'

Another suggested it was now the government's favoured option in the absence of a better deal from creditors.

Thames Water has been in financial crisis since the spring of last year when international shareholders quit the company because they felt it was no longer investable.
An Australian man who was allegedly caught with two bags of cocaine during a traffic stop in Bali has claimed he was framed by the woman accompanying him.

Witnesses filmed the arrest of Nelson Philip James, 32, on June 11 in Pererenan, 13km west of Denpasar in the Indonesian holiday island's south.

The Aussie from Lismore, in northern NSW, was initially pulled over for allegedly failing to wear a helmet while riding a motorbike.

However, now-viral footage showed officers demanding he raised his hands so they could pat down his body as a female companion stood to the side.

The video appeared to show Mr James repeatedly reaching into his pocket and retrieving two small plastic bags that appeared to contain a white substance, one of which he dropped.

He initially told police the bag contained Panadol.

'No, no, no, no,' Mr James said.

'Try it, it's Panadol. Test it, it's Panadol.'

Nelson Philip James was allegedly caught with cocaine and MDMA during a traffic stop (pictured) in Pererenan on June 11

As Mr James (centre) was escorted to the prosecutor's office on Wednesday, he told reporters he was framed

Police allege the two plastic bags contained 0.85g of cocaine and 0.53g of MDMA.

Mr James was escorted by police to the prosecutor's office in Badung on Wednesday.

As he was led to the building, he told reporters he was being framed by the woman in his arrest footage.

'Watch the video, watch the video that it's been put in my pocket, that's how I feel about it. Watch the video, you see that it's put in my pocket,' Mr James said.

When asked who put the alleged drugs in his pocket, he said: 'The girl that was with me.'

Mr James then described the woman as 'the devil'.

'I'm not guilty,' he told reporters.

The woman in the video has not been charged and Daily Mail does not suggest she is guilty of any wrongdoing.

Mr James told reporters from his cell (pictured) the woman by his side during his arrest had planted the alleged drugs on him

Mr James called the woman (pictured beside an officer holding the alleged drugs ) the 'devil'

Mr James is expected to face trial at Denpasar District Court in the coming weeks.

Prosecutors have dropped the most serious charge against him, related to drug trafficking, which could have seen him jailed for up to 20 years.

Mr James now faces two charges for drug possession and abusing drugs for personal use.

He faces a maximum of 12 years behind bars.

During an earlier press conference, Badung police chief Arif Batubara claimed Mr James was 'acting nervous' during the police stop.

'During a traffic inspection on June 11, police were observing a traffic violation at the Pererenan area, Tanah Lot,' Batubara said.

'He was acting nervous and initially refused to show the documents.

'When asked again for his paperwork, he took out his hand and a plastic clip fell out of his pocket, but one plastic was still on his hand.

Mr James (pictured) told reporters he's 'not guilty' and urged them to 'watch the video' of the arrest

Mr James (pictured during the traffic stop) claimed the alleged drugs were planted in his pocket

'Narcotic police team was then contacted. They did a follow-up to his villa but found nothing there.

'According to him, he bought the drugs in Ungasan on June 9.

'Details of the purchase are still being investigated.'

Daily Mail has contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
A new alert has been issued for South Australia, warning residents to be alert for symptoms following a confirmed case from a man in Adelaide who contracted the virus while in Bali.

SA Health has urged anyone who is not fully immunised, particularly those who visited locations listed on its website during specified times, to monitor their health over the coming weeks.

Anyone who develops symptoms should contact their doctor before attending a clinic to avoid spreading the highly contagious disease.

Measles typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes, followed by a blotchy rash starting on the head and spreading down the body.

Complications can be severe, including pneumonia and encephalitis.

'This is the fourth case of measles in South Australia this year, following six cases recorded in 2024,' SA Health said in a statement.

'There has been an increase in cases nationally over the past six months, with most linked to recent overseas travel.'

Authorities are also advising those who have recently travelled interstate to check health alerts from other jurisdictions, especially if they develop symptoms consistent with measles.

The man had returned from Bali, where he is believed to have caught the illness (stock)

Vaccination remains the most effective protection against the disease, with two doses providing the highest level of immunity.

Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), children receive doses at 12 and 18 months.

People under 20 years who missed vaccinations, along with refugees and humanitarian entrants of any age, are eligible for funded catch-up vaccines.

A new state-funded Measles Vaccination Program, introduced on 1 July 2025, is also offering free vaccines to certain age groups travelling overseas.

Initially available through GPs and select pharmacies offering travel vaccinations, the program will expand to all immunisation providers in the coming weeks.

SA Health recommends that people born during or after 1966 check their vaccination records.

Those without proof of receiving two doses should be vaccinated before travelling overseas.

Most people born before 1966 are considered immune due to exposure in childhood.

The man flew on Jetstar flights JQ499, JQ498, JQ126 & JQ125 between August 3 to 5 (stock)

The man was also at Adelaide airport on August 3 and again on August 5 (stock)

'Given the increased number of cases in Australia and overseas, we urge all South Australians, especially travellers, to ensure they are up to date with their vaccinations,' SA Health said.

A list of participating vaccination providers is available on the SA Health website.

Measles exposure sites

Kings Park Clinic, 309 Goodwood Road, Kings Park on Thursday 7 August from 12:30pm to 1:15 pm

Adelaide Airport on Tuesday 5 August from 1:30pm to 2:30 pm.

Flight JQ499 from Gold Coast to Adelaide on Tuesday 5 August departed 11:00 am

Flight JQ498 from Adelaide to Gold Coast on Tuesday 5 August departed 7:30 am

Adelaide Airport on Tuesday 5 August from 6:15 am to 7:45 am

Adelaide Airport on Monday 4 August from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm

Flight JQ126 from Denpasar to Adelaide on Monday 4 August departed 11:35 am

Flight JQ125 from Adelaide to Denpasar on Sunday 3 August departed 6:15 am.

Adelaide Airport on Sunday 3 August from 4:45 am to 6:15 am
European and Ukrainian leaders will hold a video call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday in a bid to persuade him not to sell out Ukraine and give in to Putin's demands to secure a ceasefire.

A meeting with European leaders will come just two days before Trump and Putin meet in Alaska for crunch talks on the fate of war-weary Ukraine and hope to convince him to respect Kyiv's interests in his looming summit with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin on Wednesday ahead of the talks and will meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz before a video conference with the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union this afternoon, the hosts said. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will also attend.

Zelensky, who has spoken with more than 30 international leaders in the last few days, said 'pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a fair peace'.

Putin, shunned by much of the West since ordering the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, will meet Trump on Friday in what the U.S. president has described as a 'feel-out' discussion aimed at ending the war.

The uncertainty over what the Alaska talks could produce has raised fears in European capitals that Trump and Putin might take major decisions without Kyiv's involvement.

There are also concerns that an agreement may force Ukraine into accepting a settlement on disadvantageous terms.

EU leaders stressed on Tuesday 'the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny' and that 'international borders must not be changed by force'.

Ukrainian troops fire a self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops at an undisclosed location in the Donetsk frontline, part of the Pokrovsk defence line, on August 6

Ukrainian forces fire a BM-21 Grad multiple-launch rocket system toward Russian troops near the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, Ukraine April 9, 2025

President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House August 11

It comes as Russia branded European diplomatic consultations with Ukraine as 'insignificant' on Wednesday ahead of the planned summit between Putin and Trump.

'We consider the consultations sought by the Europeans to be politically and practically insignificant,' Russian foreign ministry deputy spokesman Alexey Fadeev said in a briefing.

'The Europeans verbally support the diplomatic efforts of Washington and Moscow to resolve the crisis around Ukraine, but in fact the European Union is sabotaging them,' he said.

He added that the EU rhetoric 'about supposed support for finding peaceful solutions is just another attempt to stall the settlement process'.

'We will monitor the actions of European countries in connection with the upcoming summit and hope that no steps will be taken that would prevent it from taking place and reaching constructive agreements,' he said.

The summit on Friday is so far planned to go ahead without Zelensky, fuelling fears Kyiv could be forced into painful concessions, notably over land.

Zelensky has called for a full ceasefire - a proposal which Russia has rejected.

It comes a day after Russia made a key battlefield breakthrough in Ukraine as Putin races to secure as much land as possible before he meets Trump.

Authorities help evacuation efforts in Dobropillia on Sunday as Putin's forces make a key breakthrough

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Moscow has reportedly already seized more than 10 kilometres (six miles) of land in its lightning offensive.

With Russia applying pressure on the frontlines, Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban declared yesterday that Russia has already emerged victorious in the war.

Speaking about the possibility of a deal that could put Ukraine at a disadvantage, a senior official from Eastern Europe said: 'We are focusing now to ensure that it does not happen - engaging with U.S. partners and staying coordinated and united on the European side.

Trump's team on Tuesday sought to lower expectations of a breakthrough, calling the meeting with Putin in Alaska a 'listening exercise.'

According to a German government spokesperson, the video conference will take place at 1200 GMT (1400 CET) and will bring together Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union, as well as NATO's secretary general.

Kyiv hopes the discussions will help form a European counterbalance to whatever comes out of the Alaska summit.

European governments have publicly welcomed Trump's push for peace while stressing that any agreement about Ukraine must include Ukraine at the table.

Several senior European officials have warned that they see a real possibility of a settlement that would undermine both European and Ukrainian security.

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A source familiar with internal U.S. debates said it was possible Trump could seek to strike a deal directly with Putin without input from Europe or Ukraine.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday that the Alaska summit will be a 'listening exercise' for Trump to learn what would be needed to reach an agreement.

The meeting comes ahead of Orban's declaration of victory, calling the war in favour of Russia.

Orban, who has led Hungary since 2010, has faced criticism from other European leaders over his government's warm relationship with Moscow and his opposition to supplying weapons to Kyiv.

On Monday, he stood apart as the only European Union leader who declined to back a joint statement affirming Ukraine's right to determine its own future.

In an interview with the Patriot YouTube channel, he said: 'We are talking now as if this were an open-ended war situation, but it is not. The Ukrainians have lost the war. Russia has won this war.

'The only question is when and under what circumstances will the West, who are behind the Ukrainians, admit that this has happened and what will result from all this.'

Hungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy supplies, has refused to provide arms to Ukraine. Orban has also pushed back against Kyiv's bid to join the EU, warning it would damage Hungary's agricultural sector and broader economy.

A strike in Dobropillia, Dontesk Oblast, Ukraine, destroys buildings last last month

Putin and Trump's meeting on Friday has left European leaders concerned that a deal might be reached that could put Ukraine at a disadvantage

A serviceman of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces checks the sky to look out for Russian combat drones, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

In the interview, he also said that Europe had missed an opening to reach an agreement with Putin when former US president Joe Biden was in charge. He said: 'If you are not at the negotiating table, you are on the menu.'

His comments come as the Ukrainian military estimated that some 110,000 Russian troops were advancing in the direction of Pokrovsk in what may prove to be a major breakthrough for Vladimir Putin. Urgent evacuations are now underway in the region.

'Our units are waging heavy defensive battles against superior enemy forces,' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Telegram, adding: 'The situation is difficult and dynamic, but the Defence Forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy enemy groups.'

Kyiv has diverted special forces units to hold off the Russian advance on the ground in an effort to avoid Putin's forces from gaining ground.

The Ukrainian army said it was engaged in 'heavy' battles with Russian forces attempting to penetrate its defences. 'The situation is difficult and dynamic,' it said in a statement.

A map published by Ukrainian battlefield monitor DeepState, which has close ties with Ukraine's military, showed Russia had advanced around 10 kilometres (six miles) over around two days, deep into a narrow section of the eastern front line.

Servicemen of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fire a 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops in a front line, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

In an interview with the Patriot YouTube channel, he said: 'We are talking now as if this were an open-ended war situation, but it is not. The Ukrainians have lost the war

Ukrainian service members of the 25th Sicheslav Airborne Brigade fire a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launch system towards Russian troops near the frontline town of Pokrovsk, in Donetsk region, Ukraine April 19, 2025

Urgent evacuations are underway in Pokrovsk as Putin's troops advances

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war

The corridor - now apparently under Russian control - threatens the town of Dobropillia, a mining hub that civilians are fleeing and that has come under Russian drone attacks.

It also further isolates the destroyed town of Kostiantynivka, one of the last large urban areas in the Donetsk region still held by Ukraine.

The Ukrainian military reported that defenders were holding off advancing troops moving on Dobropol and Pokrovsk.

'Our units are waging heavy defensive battles against superior enemy forces. Thus, in the Pokrovsk direction alone, the invaders have concentrated groups numbering over 110 thousand personnel,' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Telegram.

'Some of the groups have already been destroyed, the rest are in the process of being destroyed,' the statement added.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky warned ahead of the talks that Moscow was laying the groundwork for further attacks

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war

Kyiv has diverted special forces units to hold off the Russian advance on the ground in an effort to avoid Putin's forces from gaining ground

'The situation is difficult and dynamic, but the Defense Forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy enemy groups [...] Additional forces and means have been allocated to strengthen the stability of the defense. Measures have been planned to block enemy groups in a certain area.'

'The situation is quite chaotic, as the enemy, having found gaps in the defence, is infiltrating deeper, trying to quickly consolidate and accumulate forces for further advancement,' DeepState said on its Telegram channel.

The Institute for the Study of War, a US-based observatory, said Russia was sending small sabotage groups forwards.

It said it was 'premature' to call the Russian advances in around Dobropillia 'an operational-level breakthrough'.

The military's Operational-Tactical Group Donetsk, which oversees parts of the front in the industrial region, also said Russia was probing Ukrainian lines with small sabotage groups, describing battles as 'complex, unpleasant and dynamic'.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky warned ahead of the talks that Moscow was laying the groundwork for further attacks, after Trump said on Monday that both sides would have to swap territory for peace.

Emergency workers carrying the bodies of people killed in Russian strikes last month

The devastating aftermath of a Russian attack earlier this year

'We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations,' Zelensky said in a statement on social media.

Ukraine reported in late June that Russia had amassed 110,000 troops near Pokrovsk as part of its efforts to take over the strategic city in eastern Ukraine.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, has made costly but incremental gains across the sprawling front in recent months and claims to have annexed four Ukrainian regions while still fighting to control them.

Ukrainian police, meanwhile, said that Russian attacks in the past hours had killed three people and wounded 12 others, including a child.

Ukraine's military said it had sent in reserves near the cities of Pokrovsk and Dobropillia to block advances by small groups of Russian troops.

In a statement, the General Staff said some of the groups attempting to bypass Ukraine's defensive lines in the area had already been destroyed, and that others were being engaged by Ukrainian forces.

Dobropillia is 94 kilometres (58 miles) northwest of Russian-occupied Donetsk, and around 22 kilometers (14 miles) north of Pokrovsk.

Earlier today, the Kyiv Independent reported that the Russian military is employing infiltration tactics, by sending small groups of soldiers beyond the first line of defense, often incurring significant losses.

Emergency service teams working to pull out people trapped under the rubble after a Russian attack earlier this year

Residential buildings have been targeted since Putin started the war in Ukraine

'A number of small Russian groups are constantly putting pressure on Ukrainian positions and attempting to bypass the first line of defense,' said Victor Tregubov, spokesperson of the Dnipro group of forces.

'It is important to understand that this does not mean Russian forces have taken control of the territory,' the spokesperson added.

Trump has said that both Kyiv and Moscow will have to cede territory to end the war in Ukraine, so how much territory does Russia control in Ukraine?

Russia controls nearly 114,500 square km (44,600 square miles), or 19%, of Ukraine, including Crimea, and a major chunk of territory in the east and south-east of the country, according to open-source maps of the battlefield.

Ukraine does not control any internationally recognised Russian territory.

Russia says Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - which were recognised by Moscow as part of Ukraine as the Soviet Union collapsed - are now parts of Russia.

Ukraine has repeatedly said it will never recognise Russian occupation of its land, and most countries recognise Ukraine's territory within its 1991 borders.

Following are details on the territory, Russian claims and Ukraine's position.

Trump has said that both Kyiv and Moscow will have to cede territory to end the war in Ukraine

Last month, 16 people were killed and 35 more were injured after a Russian strike on a correctional facility

Russian forces in 2014 took control of Crimea, which juts out into the Black Sea off southern Ukraine, and after a disputed referendum on joining Russia, Moscow absorbed the region into Russia. Its area is about 27,000 square km.

Russia says Crimea is legally part of Russia. Ukraine's position is that Crimea is part of Ukraine, though privately some Ukrainian officials admit that it would be very hard to return Crimea to Ukrainian control by force.

Crimea was absorbed into the Russian empire by Catherine the Great in the 18th century. Russia's Black Sea naval base at Sevastopol was founded soon afterwards.

In 1921, Crimea became part of Russia within the Soviet Union until 1954, when it was handed to Ukraine, also then a Soviet republic, by Communist Party chief Nikita Khrushchev, an ethnic Ukrainian.

Russia controls about 46,570 square km, or 88%, of the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, including all of the Luhansk region and 75% of the Donetsk region.

About 6,600 square km is still controlled by Ukraine but Russia has been focusing most of its energy along the front in Donetsk, pushing towards the last remaining major cities.

Russian-backed separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions broke away from Ukrainian government control in 2014 and proclaimed themselves independent 'people's republics'.

Putin in 2022 recognised them as independent states just days before the invasion of Ukraine.

The Russian president has laid out a list of demands in order to stop his offensive on Ukraine

Residents react after a deadly strike on apartment buildings in Ukraine

Russian forces control about 74% of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of southeastern Ukraine, or about 41,176 square km. Ukraine controls about 14,500 square km across the two regions.

In 2024 said that he would be willing to agree peace if Ukraine withdrew from all regions claimed but not fully controlled by Russia - an area currently of about 21,000 square km - and officially renounced its ambitions to join NATO.

Reuters reported in 2024 that Putin was open to discussing a Ukraine ceasefire deal with Trump, but ruled out making any major territorial concessions and insisted that Kyiv abandon ambitions to join NATO.

Two sources said Putin might be willing to withdraw from the relatively small patches of territory it holds in other areas of Ukraine.

Putin's conditions for peace include a legally binding pledge that NATO will not expand eastwards, Ukrainian neutrality and limits on its armed forces, protection for Russian speakers who live there, and acceptance of Russia's territorial gains, sources told Reuters earlier this year.

Russia also controls small parts of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions of Ukraine. Across the Sumy and Kharkiv regions, Russia controls about 400 square km of territory. In Dnipropetrovsk, Russia has a tiny area near the border.

Russia has said it is carving out a buffer zone in Sumy to protect its Kursk region from Ukrainian attack.
The UN has put Israel 'on notice' over allegations the IDF subjects captives to sexual violence.

The intergovernmental organisation's Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he has significant concerns about patterns of certain forms of sexual violence by their armed and security forces.

The alleged crimes included incidents of genital violence, prolonged forced nudity of captives, and abusive and degrading strip searches aimed at humiliation and interrogation.

In his annual report to the Security Council on conflict-related sexual violence, Guterres put Israel 'on notice' that they could be listed next year among parties 'credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence.'

The warning resulted from 'significant concerns regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations,' he wrote.

Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon described the concerns as baseless accusations.

'The UN must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages. Israel will not shy away from protecting its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law,' Danon said in a statement.

Palestinian group Hamas - whose October 7, 2023, attack on Israel triggered the current war in Gaza - were also listed in Guterres' report on Tuesday as a group 'credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence' in armed conflict.

Israeli reserve combat soldiers of the 134th battalion take part at a training drill on May 8, 2024 in Golan Heights

Smoke rises over buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis, Gaza on August 12, 2025

IDF soldiers seen among Palestinian homes during a raid at the Balata refugee camp on August 11 2025

'We categorically reject all these allegations,' senior Hamas official Basem Naim told Reuters, adding in reference to Israeli remarks: 'These are certainly new attempts to use lies to divert attention from the ongoing brutal crimes committed by this fascist government and its army against our people in Gaza.'

In his warning to Israel, Guterres said he was 'gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Israeli armed and security forces' against Palestinians in several prisons, a detention center and a military base.

'Cases documented by the United Nations indicate patterns of sexual violence such as genital violence, prolonged forced nudity and repeated strip searches conducted in an abusive and degrading manner,' he wrote in the report.

While Israeli authorities had engaged with his special envoy on sexual violence in conflict over the past year, Guterres said 'limited information has been provided on accountability measures undertaken in relation to alleged incidents of sexual violence, despite witness testimony and digital evidence of Israeli soldiers committing such violations.'

The UN also accused Russia of the same alleged crimes. Russia's mission to the U.N. in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report.

Guterres said Russian authorities have not engaged with his special envoy.

Guterres wrote that he was 'gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Russian armed and security forces and affiliated armed groups' primarily against Ukrainian prisoners of war, in 50 official and 22 unofficial detention facilities in Ukraine and Russia.

'These cases comprised a significant number of documented incidents of genital violence, including electrocution, beatings and burns to the genitals, and forced stripping and prolonged nudity, used to humiliate and elicit confessions or information,' he said.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine in February 2022.
Britain's mighty aircraft carrier strike group has flexed its muscles in a show of strength to China during a major series of military drills with American, Japan and Australia.

The Royal Navy's 3.5billion flagship HMS Prince of Wales - the most powerful warship ever built by the UK - showed off her skills during a nine-day exercise in the northern Philippine Sea.

The war games, one of the biggest held in the region, saw Nato ships from American, Spain, Norway and Britain joining forces with Australian and Japanese allies.

Thousands of military personnel from four battle groups - the USS George Washingtons Carrier Strike Group Five, USMC Amphibious Ready Group, Japans Kaga Battle Group, and the UK's own fleet - were involved.

The exercise also saw Britain's fleet of supersonic F-35B stealth jets taking to the skies in mock dog fights and simulated attack runs.

The huge display of military might comes as tensions between China and the West continue to flare, as Beijing threatens war against its neighbour Taiwan - which borders the Philippine Sea in the north.

Last month, Defence Secretary John Healey warned Britain was ready to fight should China launch an assault on Taiwan - whose standing military of 169,000 is vastly outgunned by China's two-million strong armed forces.

Speaking on board the 65,000-tonne HMS Prince of Wales before she departed Australia for the war games, Mr Healey said: 'If we have to fight, as we have done in the past, Australia and the UK are nations that will fight together.

HMS Prince of Wales (seen centre, flanked by support ships RFA Tidespring, right, and American cargo vessel USNS Wally Schirra) took part in a major drill in the Philippine Sea

The exercise, involving 11 warships and 23 aircraft, saw British F-35B stealth jets carrying out mock dog fights with allies (an F-35, left, is seen operating with a US Navy F/A-18E)

Pictured are some of the warships involved in the huge military drill earlier this month

'We exercise together and by exercising together and being more ready to fight, we deter better together.'

Xi Jinping, China's president, has not ruled out the use of force in the 'reunification of the motherland' - with Beijing insisting it has sovereignty over Taiwan, something the government in Taipei firmly rejects.

Many fear Xi Jinping could launch his much-vaunted onslaught in 2027 to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Beijing has already carried out a series of live-fire naval exercises in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand - and has tested out vast barges which could be deployed as part of a major amphibious invasion of Taiwan.

Mr Healey's comments, made to the Telegraph, were among some of the most robust from a British official on the subject of the UK joining a future war in the region.

The Defence Secretary insisted he was talking merely in 'general terms', and that Britain would prefer to see any disputes in the Indo-Pacific resolved 'peacefully' and 'diplomatically'.

As part of Britain's National Security Strategy published earlier this year, the Government recognised that 'there is a particular risk of escalation around Taiwan'.

However, the display by the UK Carrier Strike Group and its international allies could risk inflaming the already-strained relations with Beijing, with China's navy having recently operated off the Taiwanese coast several hundred miles to the north.

Defence Secretary John Healey (pictured on a visit to the HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier today) said Britain is preparing to be ready to fight in the Pacific

China's president Xi Jinping (pictured) has previously said he would not rule out using force in the 'reunification of the motherland'

Beijing regularly sends warplanes and naval vessels towards Taiwan. Pictured: Taiwan Coast Guard Special Task Unit members onboard a speedboat simulate a response to a vessel highjacking emergency, during a joint-forces exercise in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on June 8

The drills involved 11 warships and 23 aircraft and was critical proving ground to see if such a vast fighting force could operate smoothly with one another, should war erupt.

As part of this, the drill saw an historic first landing of a British F-35 on the deck of Japanese helicopter carrier JS Kaga.

Commodore James Blackmore, head of the UK Carrier Strike Group, said: 'Bringing together the large deck forces from the UK, Japan, and US, as well as escort vessels from Spain, Norway, and Australia, in such close-range showcases the strength and inter-changeability of our combined task groups.

'Operating together during the many evolutions over the past few weeks demonstrates the enhanced interoperability and the commitment of our partners and allies to the Indo-Pacific region.'

The war games focused on anti-submarine warfare drills and flying operations, which included landing other nations' aircraft on deck.

Pictured are F-35B stealth jets landing on the deck of HMS Prince of Wales during the drills

In a demonstration of interoperability, a British F-35 landing on the Japanese warships JS Kaga before taking off from the vessel's flight deck (pictured)

F-35B Lightning jets also took part in a series of mock 'dog fights' during the nine-day drill

Japanese, American and British commanders are pictured working together - with Commodore James Blackmore, Commander UK Carrier Strike, seen far right

It culminated in a multi-national squadron of fighter jets working in close formation during a dramatic fly-past of naval leviathan HMS Prince of Wales.

Speaking of the war games, Lieutenant Commander Dan Latham, 809 Naval Air Squadron said: 'It was a real privilege and the highlight of my embarkation so far to land the first UK F35B on JS Kaga.

'Although the hard work to enable this evolution had taken months to prepare, on the day itself all force elements integrated seamlessly.

'It truly demonstrated the ease with which the UK and Japan can operate together in the Indo-Pacific region, now and in the future.'

The aircraft carrier, which set sail from its home in Portsmouth, is on her maiden deployment to the Far East as part of Operation Highmast.

She is due to visit Tokyo from late August to early September. Other ships from her support group - including Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond and Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker RFA Tidespring wlll also visit Busan in South Korea.

The entire carrier strike group is expected to return to the UK in December.
India's top court ordered authorities in the capital Delhi and its suburbs on Monday to remove all stray dogs, following a rise in rabies cases, particularly among children.

India's Supreme Court took up the case after several reports in local media of stray dogs biting children in Delhi, with some turning fatal.

On Monday, news outlet Live Law reported that the court told authorities in Delhi to pick up stray dogs from across the city, sterilise and vaccinate them and move them to dog shelters.

The court ordered officials to set up multiple shelters across Delhi.

These shelters need to be capable holding at least 5,000 dogs and having sterilisation and vaccination facilities, as well as being equipped with CCTV facilities to make sure strays don't escape.

The court also ruled that Delhi needs to set up a hotline for citizens to report dog bites and rabies cases.

'Infants and young children, should not at any cost, fall prey to rabies. The action should inspire confidence that they can move freely without fear of being bitten by stray dogs. No sentiment should be involved,' the court said, according to Live Law website.

Local media reports suggest that Delhi alone has 1 million stray dogs, though this number could not be independently verified.

India's top court ordered authorities in the capital Delhi and its suburbs on Monday to remove all stray dogs, following a rise in rabies cases (File image of a stray dog in Delhi)

The city saw more than 35,000 animal bites, which largely came from dogs, in the first six months of this year alone.

Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, for the Delhi government, urged for strong intervention as 'sterilisation only prevents the increase in their population, but it does not take away the power of the dogs to give rabies,' the website reported.

However, the move has drawn criticism from conservationists over its implementation.

'Where are the shelters to house thousands of dogs?' conservation biologist Bahar Dutt said in a post on X, calling the top court's order an 'impractical unscientific move'.

'We need mass vaccination & mass sterilization  the only humane, proven ways to reduce conflicts,' Vidit Sharma, founder of animal welfare organization Save A Stray, said on X.

Nishima Bhagat, who attended a candlelight march in the centre of the city on Monday night to protest against the court ruling, told the Guardian: 'We are walking in solidarity to show that there are people for the voiceless. They [the dogs] cannot speak for themselves.

India's supreme court told authorities in Delhi to pick up stray dogs from across the city, sterilise and vaccinate them and move them to dog shelters

'They cannot be put into the pounds. We cannot uproot them from the place where they live.'

Mini Aravindan, a senior official at Peta India, said: Its infeasible to build and staff enough shelters for hundreds of thousands of dogs and the cost would be huge.

The Indian government said in April that nearly 430,000 cases of dog bites had been reported across the country in January, compared with 3.7 million cases all through 2024.

India has 52.5 million stray dogs, according to a State of Pet Homelessness survey by Mars Petcare, while 8 million homeless dogs are in shelters.
A second person has died after eating a broccoli sandwich in Italy amid a toxic botulism outbreak that has left multiple people hospitalised.

Last week, 52-year-old artist Luigi Di Sarno died after eating the panini from a food truck in the town of Diamante, in Calabria.

Now, Tamara DAcunto, 45, has also died, and more than a dozen people have been hospitalised.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the outbreak and ordered a nationwide recall of the commercially produced panini that has left 14 people with food poisoning including two teenagers.

Postmortem examinations are being conducted this week as part of the investigation.

The sandwich contained grilled sausages and an Italian summer vegetable called 'cime di rapa' or turnip tops, similar to broccoli.

Nine people are being investigated by the authorities, including the owner of the food truck on the seafront in the province of Cosenza whose vehicle as been seized, The Telegraph reported.

Three employers of the company who allegedly made the sandwich are also being investigated, as well as five doctors who treated victims near the city of Cosenza.

Luigi Di Sarno, 52, died after purchasing a broccoli and sausage sandwich from a street vendor

Tamara DAcunto has also died after eating the food and more than a dozen people have been hospitalised

Multiple other people were hospitalised with similar symptoms after eating the same meal - a broccoli and sausage sandwich [FILE PHOTO]

The medics are accused of having not acting quickly enough to save the victims, after Mr Di Sarno's sister alleged that her brother was discharged from hospital despite still feeling sick and later died.

Botulism is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

The neurotoxins attack the body's nervous system, and can cause respiratory muscle failure, paralysis and death.

Di Sarno, an artist and musician originally from Cercola, in the province of Naples, was on holiday in Calabria with his family.

After they ate the sandwich on the Tyrrhenian coast of Cosenza, he began driving back home to Naples.But on the way back he fell ill.

Others were rushed to Annunziata Hospital in Cosenza, including two 17-year-olds and two women in their 40s. Two of the patients were reportedly in a serious condition when they arrived at the intensive care unit.

The outbreak in Cosenza came just days after a 38-year-old woman died and seven people fell ill with botulism after eating infected guacamole at a festival in Sardinia at the end of last month.

An 11-year-old boy was hospitalised in intensive care at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, after being transferred by helicopter from the Brotzu Hospital in Cagliari for poisoning contracted during the Fiesta Latina in Monserrato, La Repubblica reports.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the outbreak and ordered a nationwide recall of the commercially produced panini after the death of two adults

Postmortem examinations are being conducted this week as part of the investigation

After he and his family ate the sandwich on the Tyrrhenian coast of Cosenza, Di Sarno began driving back home to Naples

Di Sarno, an artist and musician originally from Cercola, in the province of Naples, was on holiday in Calabria with his family

The travelling festival was on its way to Tortoli but was suspended by local authorities.

recall notice, published by the Ministry of Health, was reportedly issued for Metro Chef avocado pulp.



'Following two major clusters of botulinum intoxication that occurred in recent weeks in Sardinia and Calabria, the Department of Prevention, Research and Health Emergencies of the Ministry of Health immediately activated all the health protocols, the health ministry said. 'The intervention system reacted promptly, ensuring that patients had timely access to life-saving antidote treatments.'

The Cagliari Public Prosecutors Office opened an investigation into the incident and a
A 12-year-old girl from Bangladesh has been rescued from a prostitution ring in India after she was raped by more than 200 men in just three months.

Officers said the girl's ordeal began when she failed a school subject and feared being beaten by her parents.

She ran away with the help of a woman she knew, who smuggled her across the border and sold her into the sex trade, according to police.

Police said she was first taken to Nadiad in Gujarat, where she was repeatedly abused.

Ten people have been arrested, but campaigners say the rescue is only the start.

She was freed on July 26 during a joint operation by the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Mira-Bhayandar Vasai-Virar police, working with NGOs Exodus Road India Foundation and Harmony Foundation.

'This girl has not even reached her teenage years, but her childhood has been stolen by such monsters in the flesh trade,' said Abraham Mathai, founder-chairman of the Harmony Foundation.

'Behind every such rescue is a child who wasn't heard; a child failed first by those meant to protect her, and then by a society that only reacts when it's too late.'

The girl was first taken to Nadiad in Gujarat, where she was repeatedly abused, according to police

Mathai also warned that strict parenting can push children into dangerous situations.

Police commissioner Niket Kaushik said officers were using all resources to uncover the entire network and protect other vulnerable children.

However, activists are pushing authorities to do more to protect children from predators.

Madhu Shankar, an activist, said: 'I have often seen minor girls begging in Vashi and Belapur areas, who are often stolen as babies from villages, brought to cities and then exploited.

'They are handled by one or two elderly women who also push them into prostitution. They are even administered hormonal injections so that they attain puberty earlier.'

Child sex abuse in India has become a massive concern in India.

According to an analysis by Child Rights and You, sexual violence shot up by a staggering 96% from 2016 to 2022.

In 2022 alone, there were nearly 39,000 reported cases of child rape and sexual assaults.

Police have vowed to use all resources to bring down the network of predators but activists have said more needs to be done

These figures do not take into account the incidents that happen in areas where reporting is not always seen as the best solution.

According to reports, victims and their families are often forced into silence by intimidation and a broken justice system.

In 2022, only 3% of cases involving child rape resulted in any conviction.
The hard-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has become the most popular party in the country, according to the results of a new poll.

The anti-immigration AfD, led by Alice Weidel, now has 26 per cent support, while approval rates for the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, have plummeted 100 days since his election.

As popularity for Weidel's party surged, the poll found that 67 per cent of the country were dissatisfied with Merz's performance, particularly among AfD supporters.

Only 29 per cent of respondents were satisfied with his work - marking the lowest point in the Chancellor's popularity since he was elected in May.

Meanwhile, support for Merz's mainstream conservative bloc - the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) and Christian Social Union in Bavaria (CSU) alliance - fell to 24 per cent, according to the poll carried out by the Forsa Institute for Social Research and Statistical Analysis.

Only a small majority of the population - 53 per cent - believe the current coalition will sustain itself until the next federal election in 2029, with some 42 per cent of Germans expecting its early end.

The hard-right AfD party, that was formally designated as extremist by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) in May, is the largest opposition party in Germany's Bundestag.

During federal elections in February, the party won a record 152 seats in the 30-seat parliament, nagging almost 21 percent of the vote.

The anti-immigration AfD, led by Alice Weidel, now has 26 per cent support

People hold a banner as Alice Weidel, co-leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, attends a summer interview with public broadcaster ARD in Berlin, Germany, 20 July 2025

A participant of the Christopher Street Day (CSD) parade holds a poster reading 'Lesbians against Weidel' as people take to the streets of Berlin on July 26, 2025

Weidel, a former economist with over 970,000 followers on TikTok, has called for tightening Germany's borders and deporting migrants who came illegally

Approval rates for the German Chancellor , Friedrich Merz, have plummeted 100 days since his election

Right-wing populist parties have performed successfully in elections across Europe in recent years, from Poland to Romania, and Portugal to the Netherlands.

In June, Poland elected conservative eurosceptic Karol Nawrocki as its new president after a staggering turnaround to clinch 50.89 per cent of the vote.

Supported by the Law and Justice party (PiS), Nawrocki campaigned on a promise to ensure economic and social policies favouring Poles over other nationalities, including refugees from neighbouring Ukraine.

By May, the BfD had already designated several chapters of the AfD - such as its youth wing and some state-level branches - as extremist.

But the spy agency said it decided to give the entire party the label due to its attempts to undermine the free, democratic order in Germany, citing the xenophobic, anti-minority, Islamophobic and anti-Muslim statements made by leading party officials.

The AfD criticised the decision as a heavy blow to democracy and vowed to mount a legal challenge

Weidel, a former economist with over 970,000 followers on TikTok, has called for tightening Germany's borders and deporting migrants who came illegally and committed crimes.
A British girl has been accepted into university to study psychology - aged just 14.

Millie Smith started home education with mother Kim Smith, 33, in 2020, during the Covid pandemic.

Kim said she realised her daughter felt like she had to learn at school - rather than enjoying it - so decided to let her structure her own days.

Since then Millie, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has excelled - and has now been accepted by the Open University.

She will begin studying for a Bachelor of Science in Psychology - from home - in September.

Millie, who has not yet sat her GCSEs or A-levels, will go straight to a degree, which are usually begun aged 18.

It means she will be starting university at the same time as the cohort of students anxiously awaiting their A-level results, which are released tomorrow.

Kim, a home educator, said: 'I am so proud of Millie and all she's accomplished.

Millie Smith [pictured right], 14, with mother Kim [left], 33, who home schooled her

Millie has been accepted into the Open University to study psychology aged just 14

Millie was home schooled by her mother during the Covid pandemic

'It's been amazing to see her learn over the past few years and grow her independence and passion for knowledge.'

Millie said: 'I am really excited for this amazing opportunity. I have worked really hard to get to where I need to be and now it's paying off.

'It goes to show that in the right environment you can achieve great things..'

Millie returned to school for a period, but after facing bullying and finding the lessons restrictive, her mother Kim pulled her out permanently four months later.

Kim says she wasn't particularly aware of home education when Millie first dropped out of lessons.

'To be honest I thought it was all a bit tree-hugging hippie stuff, but now I get it's about whatever works for you,' Kim said.

'We were trying to work with what the school was offering in early pandemic days, but the parents just felt wholly unprepared. We were suddenly expected to be teachers with zero experience, so that's when I started letting Millie run her own schooling.

'The school was delighted as she was one of the only students turning in work, even if it wasn't exactly what they asked for. But when she returned to school, it was a bit of a shock for her.

Millie's school work can range from researching online to watching a documentary to going outside to perform experiments

'She was dealing with bullies, which I felt the school weren't doing nearly enough for, and after being able to structure her own learning, teachers telling her what to learn felt restrictive.

'Millie deals with trouble reading and writing, and a teacher told her she'd have to choose one to be bad at. After all of this, knowing we could do it at home just as well, I pulled her out.'

Over the past four and a half years, Millie learnt how to structure her own working days and decide what to learn - finding a passion for science in the process.

Kim worked with her daughter on her reading and writing until she could manage by herself, but, outside of that, Kim only helps if asked.

Kim also runs a social club for local children, most of whom are home educated, where they have weekly outings so that the kids can socialise.

She said: 'It took us a couple months to figure out how our daily life would look.

'We realised that, once Millie felt proficient in basic reading and writing, and knew how to learn or research things from credible sources, it was better for her to decide for herself.

'So that means if Millie wants, she can get all her work done in the morning and relax in the afternoon.

Kim said she had never previously considered home schooling

The Open University doesn't have any age restrictions or require any GCSEs to apply

'And work can look like anything from researching online to watching a documentary to going outside to perform experiments.

'I started up a social club for kids in the area, both home educated and not, to organised meet ups so the kids can get as vibrant a social life as possible.'

Millie became increasingly interested in psychology over the past two years and took a free introductory course on the topic on Coursera.

From this course, her interest solidified and she applied to some local colleges offering programs for 14-16 year olds.

However, Millie found the course unorganised and unfulfilling, so decided to look at universities instead, despite the fact that but Millie didn't have any GCSEs to apply with.

That's when the pair came across the Open University, which doesn't require any GCSEs or A Levels to apply and has no age restrictions.

Kim said: 'I remember when I first came across the Open University, I almost didn't believe it. I even called them up to check if our situation would work, and they said yes!

'Millie had already been answering university-level science questions, so I knew she was capable.

'As a young applicant she did have to prove she was mature enough, so we got letters of support from our local authority, from places she's volunteered and from other kids she's helped tutor.

Millie will complete the course module by module and will finish with a Bachelor of Science at 18

'She had to do a questionnaire and an interview over video call, as well as an assignment where she had to explain a psychological effect in 250 words or less.

'Millie passed all of these with flying colours- to the point where they only took a morning to read her assignment before accepting her.'

Millie now looks forward to starting her course, which she will take from home module by module until she finishes the course at 18.

Kim said: 'It's all super exciting. They have to take it module by module, so she'll be assessed at the end of each module to see if she can continue.

'But we're not too worried about that right now. I think it will be a great experience for her.'
A Vietnamese restaurant in London has shut down after inspectors allegedly found dog meat in the freezer.

It was labelled 'goat wrapped in leaves' but when they sent it for analysis it came back as dog meat, a court heard.

They also reported mice droppings and live and dead cockroaches at Pho Na restaurant in Old Kent Road, Southwark.

Vuong Quoc Nguyen, 47, the Vietnamese owner of the restaurant, denied multiple food safety and hygiene offences when he appeared at Bromley Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

Nguyen appeared at the brief hearing wearing a navy blue polo neck, black jeans and and blue trainers.

Defence solicitor Piers Kiss-Wilson insisted the 47-year-old defendant had no idea the 'goat' was dog meat and said it was supplied to him by someone else.

He added the dog meat was not for sale for human consumption and that the owner had brought in pest control to try and fix the issues at the restaurant.

Nguyen is due to stand trial at Bromley Magistrates' Court on December 18.

Vuong Quoc Nguyen, 47, the Vietnamese owner of the restaurant, denied multiple food safety and hygiene offences

The dog meat was allegedly found at the former Pho Na restaurant in Old Kent Road, Southwark, London (pictured)

Pho Na is now listed on Google as 'permanently closed'.

Prior to the alleged discovery of the dog meat in one of the eatery's freezers, it had a 4.6-star rating.

A new Vietnamese takeaway called Dac San Xu Nghe has since opened at the former site of Pho Na.

According to Companies House, it is operated by 35-year-old Vietnamese national Hung Van Nguyen, who was appointed director on March 19.

In a statement, Lewisham Council told Daily Mail: 'Following a failed food safety inspection at the former local business Pho Na, Lewisham Council commenced prosecution action in relation to food hygiene offences in 2023.

'The Council did not order the closure of the business, which was subsequently sold independently. As this matter is subject to ongoing legal proceedings, we are unable to provide further comment at this time.'
Risque photos of showgirls at the exclusive nightclub where Christine Keeler worked at the time of the Profumo scandal have emerged.

There are also unpublished photos by Tom Blau of the Welsh model and showgirl Mandy Rice-Davis (actual name Marilyn Foreman), who was Keeler's associate.

The great and good of the London scene flocked to Murray's Cabaret Club in Soho during the Swinging Sixties to watch the scantily-clad performers.

The club's famous clientele included the Kray twins, King Hussein of Jordan, Randolph Churchill, Princess Margaret and actress Jean Harlow.

One member was the society osteopath Stephen Ward, who befriended club hostess Keeler and later introduced her to war minister John Profumo.

Keeler ended up sleeping with both him and handsome Russian spy Evgeny Ivanov - prompting fears of a national security breach as the Cold War raged.

She was jailed for perjury in December 1963 after Profumo had resigned over the extra-marital affair he tried to cover up by lying in the House of Commons.

The scandal ultimately helped bring down the Conservative government at the 1964 election.

Unpublished photos by Tom Blau of the Welsh model and showgirl Mandy Rice-Davis

Mandy Rice-Davies posing in a photo shoot for photographer Tom Blau

The main collection of 24 black and white photos features showgirls in revealing outfits, extravagant fur numbers and even topless poses.

The extraordinary costumes were created by theatre costume designer Michael Bronze who worked for Murray's Cabaret Club from 1939 until the mid-1960s.

The photo album is part of a collection of Profumo Affair material going under the hammer at auctioneers Sworders, of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex.

Keeler worked at Murray's in 1959 and 1960.

She once said of her time working there: 'Working at Murray's left you in an unreal world; at night-time you entered this fantasy place where the rich and famous queued for your attention.

'It was only after I left Murray's and returned to the real world that I realised the strange underground fantasy life I had been leading.'

She described the club as a place where showgirls walked bare-chested and the hostesses moved among rich, champagne-swilling middle-aged men.

Rice-Davies, a nightclub dancer, met Keeler at the Cabaret Club.

Keeler then introduced her to Ward and to slum landlord Peter Rachman, who would become her lover.

Mandy Rice-Davies' risque photo shoot for photographer Tom Blau

Rice-Davies met Christine Keeler at the Cabaret Club. The pair became embroiled in the Profumo Affair

Mandy Rice Davies in the risque photo shoot. She became notorious after appearing in the court case involving Stephen Ward

The main collection of 24 black and white photos features showgirls from the Cabaret Club in revealing outfits, extravagant fur numbers and even topless poses

The photo album is part of a collection of Profumo Affair material going under the hammer at auctioneers Sworders, of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex

Another Cabaret Club showgirl in a racy pose. The club was a favourite haunt of the rich and famous

Ward later went on trial at the Old Bailey after being charged with living off the immoral earnings of both Rice-Davies and Keeler.

In the witness box, Rice-Davies claimed that one of her lovers had been Viscount 'Bill' Astor, whose estate in Berkshire was where Profumo met Keeler.

She gained notoriety when she dismissed a denial by the aristocrat that he had slept with her, saying: 'Well, he would, wouldn't he?'

Rice-Davies passed away aged 70 in 2014, whilst Keeler died in 2017, aged 75.

A Sworders spokesperson said: 'Murray's Cabaret Club, known for its mix of the racy and respectable, attracted a clientele that included royalty, film stars and politicians.

'The club also played a significant role in the Profumo affair, with Christine Keeler and Stephen Ward, both members, becoming central figures in the scandal.'

A group of Cabaret Club showgirls pose for a group photograph

Another of the Cabaret Club showgirls, posing up for the photo shoot

A Cabaret Club showgirl poses in risque fashion for the photo shoot

A Cabaret Club showgirl stares into a mirror for one of the photographs

A Cabaret Club showgirl poses up a storm in a fur-lined dress

Another Cabaret Club showgirl bangs a drum for her moment in front of the camera

Mark Wilkinson, head of sale at Sworders, added: 'Anything related to Murray's Cabaret Club is popular at auction due to the club's history and extraordinary list of clients who frequented the Soho nightspot.

'These included Peter Sellers, The Krays, Jane Birkin, Jean Harlow, Kay Kendall, Gertrude Lawrence, Princess Margaret, King Hussein of Jordan and Randolph Churchill.'

Murray's was originally opened as a jazz and cabaret club in Beak Street, Soho, in 1913 by Jack Mays, an American and Englishman Ernest Cordell.

It was part of the cabaret boom inspired by the tango craze which had been sweeping Europe and the US.

But the growth of more explicit strip clubs and peep shows created unwanted competition and the club which was burdened by huge cost of the costumes and floorshows closed in 1975. The photos are tipped to sell for 300 on August 19.
A tourist fell from the church at the top of Mount Lycabettus in Athens while posing for a selfie after being swept away by high winds, local media reports.

Police arrived at the scene on Tuesday morning, and the man was taken to Gennimatas Hospital, where he is in stable condition.

According to the Greek City Times, initial reporting indicates that the man is between 25 and 30.

He is said to have plummeted from the edge of the church courtyard onto rocks below before falling on stone-paved steps.

Cops temporarily blocked access to Agios Georgios. The road from the theatre was also sealed off.

An eyewitness said: 'A tourist woman came and told us that a man had fallen onto the landing and asked us to call EKAB.

'We stayed with him until the rescuers arrived. They took him away conscious and transferred him to the hospital.

Another told Newsbomb: 'He was sitting on the ledge outside the church, and people saw him fall.

A tourist fell from the church at the top of Mount Lycabettus in Athens while posing for a selfie after being swept away by high winds

Police arrived at the scene on Tuesday morning, and the man was taken to Gennimatas Hospital, where he is in stable condition

'I wasnt there at the moment - it was a tourist who told me. I went and saw him lying there, bleeding. It was a bit hard to watch.

'We called EKAB. He was conscious, blinking his eyes. Later, the hospital called and told us that he was in good health.

Firefighters and an ambulance carried him, and reportedly used a cable car to transfer him to the ambulance.

Last week, it was reported that two tourists died at sea after strong winds swept them into the water.

They had disembarked from a cruise ship before the woman is believed to have started taking a selfie.

The man also fell into the water while trying to save his partner.

A coastguard spokesperson said: 'The man and woman were found unconscious in the sea and were taken to the local health centre.'

'They were Vietnamese tourists on a cruise ship group. The woman fell in the water and the man apparently tried to save her.'

Last week, several cruise ships were stopped from sailing, leaving many travellers stranded

Thousands of travellers were left stranded on Friday as high winds grounded several planned ferries.

The civil protection ministry said wind gusts would reach 88 kilometres (54 miles) an hour, especially in the southern Aegean and the Sea of Crete.

Meanwhile, the mayor of Athens shut down the National Garden after a tree fell in one of the capital's busiest high streets on Thursday, narrowly missing shoppers.

This news is breaking: more to follow.
How the ego and talent that propelled The Police to superstardom led to public fallouts and 'band therapy - as Sting is sued by his former bandmates


A frustrated Uber customer who just wants to be able to visit his family has slammed the rideshare platform for drivers repeatedly cancelling his trips due to his weight.

When Martin calls an Uber to drive around Melbourne, he said it's normal to expect that the first few drivers will cancel his trip.

He said he has grown accustomed to the 'gut-wrenching feeling' of being refused entry to a driver's vehicle after they pull up.

'It's because of my size. I'm morbidly obese, I don't shy away from that,' he told A Current Affair on Wednesday.

'The drivers take one look at me and they go right past me.'

Martin lives on a disability pension due to his weight and relies on rideshare services to get to his parents' home, where he cares for them.

Due to personal reasons he did not share, he is unable to lose his desired amount of weight despite his best efforts.

In Victoria, it is against the law under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 to discriminate against someone based on their physical features.

Melbourne man Martin (pictured) has publicly called out Uber, saying drivers have repeatedly refused service to him after pulling up due to his weight

Martin recalled several drivers cancelling his trip after they saw him in person

Under the law, employers must take steps to eliminate discrimination in their workplaces.

Under what is called a 'positive duty' companies can be held responsible if their workers partake in discrimination.

Martin said the 'horrible' feeling of being judged by those around him doesn't just apply to Uber rides.

He recalled feeling self conscious while eating in public, visiting shopping centres and attending medical appointments and has even taken to cutting his own hair to avoid scrutiny at salons.

However, the incredibly direct action of an Uber driver turning around and cancelling a trip after seeing Martin particularly stings.

'It feels, it feels like I'm less than a human being. I want to be able to be like everyone else,' he said.

'They see me and then they keep driving and when they get to the corner, they cancel - then that gut-wrenching feeling where you go, 'It's happened again'.'

Martin (pictured) revealed he is often judged due to his weight but feels particularly embarrassed by the direct nature of Ubers' cancellations

Martin has documented every Uber driver who cancelled his trip at the last minute over several years.

When he submitted his complaints to Uber, he claimed he consistently was told the drivers would undergo improved training.

'They occasionally send me a $10 voucher because that's how much a human's dignity is worth,' Martin said.

Martin called for Uber to take action against drivers who discriminated against customers based on weight.

He wanted to be treated with 'dignity' when using rideshare services.

Uber said in a statement it has a 'zero tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination'.

'Our community guidelines clearly prohibit discrimination of any kind,' an Uber spokesperson said.

'We work to inform driver partners about those standards, hold them accountable for their actions, and make it clear that this behaviour can result in them losing access to the Uber app.'

Daily Mail has contacted Uber for further comment.
Sir Keir Starmer and European leaders will today put pressure on Donald Trump not to hand parts of Ukraine to Russia during his upcoming talks with Vladimir Putin.

The Prime Minister will join a call at lunchtime with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, France's Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz.

They will then be joined by Mr Trump and US vice president JD Vance for an emergency virtual summit, ahead of Mr Trump's talks with Mr Putin in Alaska on Friday.

The US President is meeting the Russian leader as he attempts to fulfil his promise to bring to an end the three year-long conflict in Ukraine.

But there are worries in European capitals that Mr Trump will offer to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia as part of a ceasefire deal.

'There'll be some land swapping going on,' Mr Trump stated this week, although he also vowed to try and recover some of Ukraine's territory currently held by Russia.

Ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting, Mr Zelensky has declared he will not hand his country's eastern Donbas region to Russia as the price for peace.

He warned, if handed to the Kremlin, Mr Putin would merely use the region as a 'springboard for a future new offensive' on Ukraine.

Sir Keir Starmer and European leaders will put pressure on Donald Trump not to hand parts of Ukraine to Russia during his upcoming talks with Vladimir Putin

The US President is meeting the Russian leader as he attempts to fulfil his promise to bring to an end the three year-long conflict in Ukraine

There are worries in European capitals that Mr Trump will offer to cede Ukrainian territory to Mr Putin as part of a ceasefire deal

Sir Keir is set to support Mr Zelensky's stance in Wednesday's call with Mr Trump, with the PM having insisted a peace deal 'must be built with Ukraine, not imposed upon it'.

Both the PM and EU leaders are also expected to argue that Mr Putin cannot be rewarded for his aggression against Ukraine by gaining territory.

A European diplomatic source told The i Paper that permanent changes to the Ukraine-Russia border would not be accepted.

They added that land swaps must be off the table in Mr Trump's discussions with Mr Putin.

But there are also reported tensions between the UK and EU capitals, with a British official revealing concerns about 'unhelpful running commentary' from European leaders about the Trump-Putin talks.

'Unlike our European colleagues, we are not publicly out there making demands of the Americans,' they told The Telegraph.

'A lot of the way the Europeans seem to be behaving, they're going to annoy the Americans, they're going to annoy Trump if they start making demands and if they put out red lines.'

It comes after Mr Merz and Kaja Kallas, the EU's top diplomat, both publicly called for Mr Zelensky to be allowed to attend the talks in Alaska.

Ms Kallas said: 'We cannot accept that territorial issues between Russia and America are discussed or even decided over the heads of Europeans and Ukrainians.'

Ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting, Volodymyr Zelensky has declared he will not hand his country's eastern Donbas region to Russia as the price for peace.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Later on Wednesday, Sir Keir will co-chair a meeting of the so-called 'coalition of the willing' meeting to update wider partners on the day's discussions.

The coalition of the willing is an international effort to support Ukraine towards a lasting peace, led by the UK, France and Ukraine.

It is made up of 31 countries that have pledged strengthened support for Kyiv, including 27 European countries, as well as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

Ahead of Wednesday's call, a Downing Street spokesperson said: 'The PM remains absolutely focused on a solution to this conflict grounded in Ukraine's national interests.

'He is determined to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, backed by robust and credible security guarantees that will deter Russia from threatening Ukraine in future.'

Mr Zelensky said at a news briefing on Tuesday that Mr Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region that Kyiv controls as part of a ceasefire deal.

This was conveyed to him by US officials, Mr Zelensky added.

However, he reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls because it is unconstitutional and would only serve as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

Mr Trump has also signalled he thinks Ukraine might need to cede territory in order to end the conflict, stating there is likely to be 'some land-swapping going on'.

Speaking during a lengthy press conference on Monday, Mr Trump pledged to 'try to get back' some of Ukraine's 'oceanfront property' from Russia.

He said: 'We're going to change the lines, the battle lines. Russia has occupied a big portion of Ukraine. They've occupied some very prime territory. We're going to try and get some of that territory back for Ukraine.

'They have taken largely  in real estate we call it oceanfront property. That's always the most valuable property.'

A statement released by the EU on Tuesday read: 'A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

'The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.

'Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities.'

In response, Mr Zelensky said on X (formerly Twitter): 'I am grateful to the leaders of Europe for their clear support for our independence, territorial integrity, and precisely such an active approach to diplomacy that can help end this war with a dignified peace.

'Indeed, We all support President Trump's determination, and together we must shape positions that will not allow Russia to deceive the world once again.

'We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations.

'In such circumstances, it is important that the unity of the world is not threatened.

'As long as they continue the war and the occupation, all of us together must maintain our pressure  the pressure of strength, the pressure of sanctions, the pressure of diplomacy.'
A celebrity chef who punched and shoved his girlfriend to the ground has escaped jail, despite a magistrate finding he could have walked away from the situation.

On Monday, Magistrate Justin Wickens told Leonardo Moreira Loureiro, former head chef at acclaimed Adelaide restaurant Nina, that he had been in a position of physical dominance over his partner, food influencer Brenda Loveday.

The Brazilian-born 33-year-old and Ms Loveday had been out to dinner with friends in July 2024, when an argument erupted at their Airbnb.

'You were in a position of dominance as it relates to physical strength in comparison to (Ms Loveday),' Mr Wickens said, according to the The Advertiser.

'You could have used that imbalance to push past her, to move her to the side, or to take some other form of action to remove yourself from the situation you clearly did not want to be in.

'You did not need to push her to the floor, you did not need to punch her.'

Inside a shared bedroom, Loureiro pushed Ms Loveday to the ground, causing her to hit her head, and punched her in the abdomen after she tried to calm him.

'I accept that your actions on this evening were born out of frustration at the situation. Frustration may be a precursor, but is never an excuse to resort to violence,' Mr Wickens said.

Chef Leonardo Moreira Loureiro (pictured) escaped jail after assaulting his ex-partner

Brenda Loveday (right) said that Loureiro (left) mentally and physically abused her

Ms Loveday told the court Loureiro had 'tried to destroy her' and 'stripped away' the person she once was.

She said the abuse went beyond physical violence, alleging he had cut her off from friends, the same friends who ultimately 'saved' her by contacting SA Police.

After the assault, Ms Loveday said Loureiro made a chilling remark.

'Damn, I thought you were dead, you are such a good actress,' she said he told her, before filming her 'to humiliate me and make me look unstable.'

Nine months later, in April this year, Loureiro pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault without a weapon.

A second charge of choking, suffocating or strangling was withdrawn by prosecutors.

Following his guilty plea, he left his role at Nina restaurant, while Ms Loveday received widespread public support from fellow social media

Brenda Loveday (pictured) was attacked by Loureiro during a fight while staying at an Airbnb

The chef was sentenced to one month and six days in prison, reduced by 24 days to account for time served in custody after his arrest.

The term was suspended on a $500, 12-month good behaviour bond due to his 'immediate' remorse and efforts to seek psychological help.

Nina, which was co-founded by Loureiro, Loveday and Jessica Purcell, is now run solely by Ms Purcell.

'Recent events involving a former co-founder of Nina have understandably drawn public attention,' Ms Purcell said in May.

'I want to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation, whilst also affirming my commitment to the team, our guests, and the values we uphold at Nina.'

Loureiro is a well-known chef who has worked alongside several high-profile culinary figures, including Matt Moran (ARIA), Jock Zonfrillo (Orana), and Massimo Bottura (Osteria), according to a post from Le Cordon Bleu, where he trained.
Bangladeshi anti-corruption officials have given evidence in court against Labour's former anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq, accused of using her familial connection to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina to obtain state-owned land in Bangladesh.

Ms Siddiq, who is Ms Hasina's niece, resigned from her post as an anti-corruption minister in Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's government in January after reports that she lived in London properties linked to her aunt and was named in an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh.

She is being tried together with her mother, Sheikh Rehana, brother, Radwan Mujib, and sister, Azmina.

Ms Siddiq has been charged with facilitating their receipt of state land in a township project near the capital, Dhaka.

The four were indicted earlier and asked to appear in court, but the prosecution said they absconded and would be tried in absentia.

The trial at the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 formally began on Wednesday, hearing evidence from officials from the country's Anti-Corruption Commission.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, third right, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, third left, and Tulip Siddiq, left, attend a signing ceremony in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Bangladeshi anti-corruption officials have given evidence in court against Labour's former anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq, accused of using family connections to obtain state-owned land in Bangladesh

Prosecutor Mir Ahmed Ali Salam said that if Ms Siddiq was found guilty, Bangladesh authorities were likely to submit an Interpol Red Notice for her arrest, which would prove embarrassing for Sir Keir Starmer

The court had heard from two officials and a third was expected to testify later in the day, Muhammad Tariqul Islam, a public prosecutor, said.

Ms Siddiq's lawyers had previously called the charges baseless and politically motivated.

The former minister has said she feels like she is 'in a Kafkaesque nightmare' amid the corruption trial.

The 42-year-old has labelled the charge as 'completely absurd' and insists she is the victim of an orchestrated campaign against her, accusing interim leader Muhammad Yunus of 'interfering with UK politics'.

Talking to The Guardian, she said: 'I feel a bit like I'm trapped in this Kafkaesque nightmare where I've been put on trial and I genuinely haven't found out what the allegations are and what the trial is about.'

The nation's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) accuses Ms Siddiq of obtaining a 7,200 sq ft plot of land in the Purbachal diplomatic zone of the capital, Dhaka.

Prosecutor Mir Ahmed Ali Salam claimed she 'influenced her aunt to get land properties for family members'.

He added that if she was found guilty, Bangladesh authorities were likely to submit an Interpol Red Notice for her arrest, which would prove embarrassing for Sir Keir Starmer.

The former minister has said she feels like she is 'in a Kafkaesque nightmare' amid the corruption trial

The 42-year-old has labelled the charge as 'completely absurd' and insists she is the victim of an orchestrated campaign against her

Public Prosecutor Muhammad Tariqul Islam, wearing a necktie, speaks to the media following a court hearing in the corruption case against former British Minister Tulip Siddiq at the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Separately, the anti-corruption investigation has also alleged that Ms Siddiq's family was involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of money were said to have been embezzled.

The Labour MP represents the north London district of Hampstead and Highgate and served as economic secretary to the Treasury - the minister responsible for tackling financial corruption.

Ms Hasina was ousted after a 15-year rule in a student-led mass uprising in August last year. She fled to India and has been in exile ever since.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus took over as interim leader and vowed to try the former prime minister.

Hundreds of protesters were killed during the uprising and Ms Hasina now faces charges, including crimes against humanity.
Police have released a picture of a man who was allegedly beaten to death with a concrete slab on the Isle of Sheppey.

Alexander Cashford, 49, was found dead with multiple serious injuries in Leysdown-on-Sea on Sunday.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 15 and 14, have been charged with his murder.

Kent Police were called to reports of 'an altercation' in the Warden Bay Road area shortly after 7pm.

It is alleged the victim was assaulted following a disturbance involving a small group of people.

Officers attended along with South East Coast Ambulance Service and Mr Cashford was confirmed deceased at the scene.

A short while later, the two teenage boys and girl were arrested and taken into custody.

On Tuesday, the three were charged with murder by joint venture.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 15 and 14, have been charged with the murder of Alexander Cashford (pictured), 49, in Leysdown-on-Sea, on the Isle of Sheppey, Kent Police said

Police pictured searching the scene near Warden Bay beach on the Isle of Sheppey on August 11

Police officers carry out searches near the scene in the Leysdown-on-Sea resort on the Isle of Sheppey on Monday

The three suspects, who are all from London, were remanded in custody to appear before Medway Magistrates' Court today.

A 12-year-old girl, arrested on August 12 in Basildon in connection with the incident, remains in custody while enquiries continue.

Specialist officers have brought a sniffer dog to the scene as they continue to search for evidence. A police spaniel was seen sniffing around a small area with police tape set up around it.

The cordon was put up in a large clearing behind the beach in front of a caravan park.

They have also covered some areas of the scrap land behind Warden Bay Beach.

A group of holidaymakers allege the man was hit in the head with a large concrete slab before a local tried to save his life.

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Specialist officers have brought a sniffer dog to the scene as they continue to search for evidence

A police cordon was put up in a large clearing behind the beach in front of a caravan park

Emergency services pictured at the scene yesterday as they continue to search for evidence

A group of police officers pictured combing an area of the beach in Leysdown-on-Sea for evidence

Manager of Quick Convenience store Anton Jasnu, 34, ran out of his shop to help.

Mr Jasnu saw people trying to perform CPR on the victim and said he had tissue on the back of his head which he thinks was used to try to stop the bleeding.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for any witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police contact them.

Anyone with information has been asked to call Kent Police on 01622 690690 quoting 10-1384.
A teenage beauty student died after police couldn't find equipment to force their way into her home, an inquest has heard.

Alex Duce, 18, was a 'popular' person with 'many friends' who was following her dreams to study beauty at college.

But she was reported missing by her worried mum after she was unable to contact her the day after their final video call.

An inquest heard police went to her flat at 11am but left when there was no answer because Alex was only deemed a 'medium risk.'

Officers returned hours later but there was a 30 minute delay in finding heavy equipment at the station needed to gain entry to the flat.

The inquest heard officers finally forced their way inside just before 5pm after a neighbour said they heard footsteps and a 'loud bang' that afternoon.

Alex was found hanged in her room in Tredegar, South Wales, but police believed she had only recently lost consciousness before CPR was started.

She was rushed to hospital in September 2022 and put on life support - but died five days later on September 16.

Alex Duce, 18, was a 'popular' person with 'many friends' who was following her dreams to study beauty at college, an inquest heard

PC Michael Lammert, of Gwent Police, had gone to check on Alice at her second floor flat at 11am but left after there was no answer.

He said she was deemed a 'medium risk' by the force and he had been told by Alex's friend that she 'does this from time to time'.

PC Lammert said: 'To me I took that as she shuts off from people and doesn't want contact with friends and family sometimes.'

The officer said Alex's mother told police she had been struggling with her mental health and had self harmed five weeks earlier.

He said: 'There was no immediacy. If there was a clear message relaying she was contemplating suicide then that would definitely have been a higher risk.'

PC Lammert was dispatched to the flat a second time at 4pm with PC Lauren Smith after reports of Alex's loved ones gathered outside banging on the door.

PC Smith, as an officer trained in powers of entry, was tasked with assessing the situation and deciding whether to force access.

She said there was only one entry kit per police station at the time containing heavy apparatus such as a hooligan bar or battering ram.

The inquest also heard that Alex died a delay in finding the heavy duty equipment police needed to force their way into her home

PC Smith said it was common for officers to not be able to locate the kits which she admitted could be 'frustrating'.

The officer said on the day Alex died it had taken up to 30 minutes to retrieve the kit - meaning it took 52 minutes from being dispatched to reach the property.

PC Smith said she began to realise more about the case after being told Alex had self-harmed and in her mind the risk became higher.

She said: 'That information was never made available to me. The sense of urgency increased while I was there as I gained more information.'

The battering ram was used five times on the door before the officers managed to gain entry and within seconds found Alex in her room.

Alex, who was showing signs of life, was rushed by ambulance to the Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil where she received advanced life support but her machine was switched off days later.

The inquest, before assistant coroner Sarah Le Fevre, continues in Newport, Gwent.

For help and support, call the Samaritans for free from a UK phone, completely anonymously, on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org
Human rights 'worsened' in Britain last year amid increased anti-Semitic violence and growing curbs on free speech, according to Donald Trump's administration.

A new report by the US State Department found 'credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression' and violence 'motivated by anti-Semitism'.

The assessment, which analyses human rights conditions worldwide, said there were 'specific areas of concern' involving curbs on 'political speech deemed 'hateful' or offensive'.

The report pointed to laws establishing 'safe access zones' around abortion clinics in England and Wales.

'These restrictions on freedom of speech could include prohibitions on efforts to influence others when inside a restricted area, even through prayer or silent protests,' it said.

The State Department also highlighted last summer's Southport murders, in which three young girls were stabbed to death.

The report said, following the attacks, that 'local and national government officials repeatedly intervened to chill speech as to the identity and motives of the attacker'.

'Numerous non-government organisations and media outlets criticised the Government's approach to censoring speech, both in principle and in the perceived weaponisation of law enforcement against political views disfavoured by authorities,' it added.

'While many media observers deemed 'two-tier' enforcement of these laws following the Southport attacks an especially grievous example of Government censorship, censorship of ordinary Britons was increasingly routine, often targeted at political speech.'

Human rights 'worsened' in Britain last year amid increased anti-Semitic violence and growing curbs on free speech, according to Donald Trump's administration

A new report by the US State Department found 'credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression' and violence 'motivated by anti-Semitism'

The State Department's assessment echoed sentiments previously expressed by US vice president JD Vance

Immediately after the Southport stabbings, false rumours spread online that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker.

These were judged to have fuelled the riots seen in the aftermath of the murders, while there were also prosecutions of those found to have stirred up violence and racial hatred on social media.

The State Department report also cited evidence of a large increase in anti-Semitic incidents across the UK in the wake of the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel on 7 October, 2023.

'There were credible reports of crimes, violence, and threats of violence motivated by anti-Semitism,' it said.

The assessment echoed sentiments previously expressed by US vice president JD Vance.

In February, Mr Vance criticised the UK over a legal case in which a former serviceman who silently prayed outside an abortion clinic was convicted of breaching the safe zone around the centre.

In a wider attack on what he suggested was a shift away from democratic values across Europe, Mr Vance claimed the 'basic liberties of religious Britons, in particular' are under threat.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Mr Vance said that the US' 'very dear friends the United Kingdom' appeared to have seen a 'backslide in conscience rights'.

The State Department report directed criticism over the handling of free speech at the governments of Germany and France.

But it also said the UK Government 'effectively' enforced laws around freedom of association and the rights of workers.

It concluded: 'The human rights situation worsened in the United Kingdom during the year.

'Significant human rights issues included credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression, including enforcement of or threat of criminal or civil laws in order to limit expression; and crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism.

'The Government sometimes took credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses, but prosecution and punishment for such abuses was inconsistent.'

A UK Government spokesperson said: 'Free speech is vital for democracy around the world, including here in the UK and we are proud to uphold freedoms whilst keeping our citizens safe.'
A man claims to have captured a 'UFO' on video ripping through the sky at hypersonic speeds while he was playing fetch with his dog.

Andrew Clifton, 40, was out with his five-year-old Labrador, Dash, in the Malvern Hills, when he filmed the out-of-this-world phenomena.

He had been recording himself throwing a frisbee for Dash when he claims the unknown object shot through the air at high speed.

Andrew neither saw nor heard anything at the time. It wasn't until he reviewed the footage later that he noticed the strange metallic-coloured UFO.

After slowing down the footage, the alleged tubular object could be seen slicing through the sky at immense speed, seemingly covering the distance of the horizon in the fraction of a second.

After showing the clip to friends, they encouraged him to post it in a UFO sightings Facebook group, where it quickly amassed millions of views.

However, sceptics online have claimed the video could be a hoax and potentially edited.

Andrew, a change manager from Minety, Wiltshire, said: 'It was such a strange experience. At the time, I didn't notice that anything had happened. 'It was moving so fast there was no way I could pick it up with a naked eye.

The alleged UFO is pictured at the top right of the image, above the frisbee

The mysterious object was seen ripping through the sky at high speed. However, sceptics say the footage could be a hoax

'But when I got home from dinner with friends later that day, I was reviewing the videos from the day and noticed something small.

'That's when I edited the video into slow-motion and saw the object in full force for the first time.'

Malvern Hills is nestled between two major Royal Air Force bases, RAF Brize Norton, to the south east, and RAF Cosford - a training establishment - to the north.

The video was recorded on on Saturday, August 2.

Andrew later posted the video on Facebook, where members of the UFO community flooded the comments with questions.

The discussion grew even larger when the clip was shared on X - formerly Twitter - racking up more than seven million views.

Some viewers, convinced by the object's speed, believe it must be extraterrestrial while others remain sceptical.

Andrew said: 'I'm not someone who is a super big believer but I do think we shouldn't assume that there is nothing out there.

Pictured is the moment just before the alleged UFO appears in the sky above Andrew Clifton and his dog, Dash

'So when my friend suggested I posted the video to a sighting Facebook group, I thought it would start a fun discussion, but I had no idea how big it would get.

'I've seen some people suggesting it's AI, but I can promise you the only editing I did was to slow the footage down.

'Personally, I think it's more likely to be some sort of military equipment that we don't know about.

'But it's true that whenever I watch it, I can't come up with a full answer as to what it is.'

UFOs are now known as UAP - or unidentified aerial phenomena.

In recent months, concerns over UAP sightings worldwide has worried governments.

In America, a special congress has been set up to investigate alleged sightings.

It follows the disclosure of video from the US Navy which appeared to show an encounter with a 'Tic Tac' shaped objected in 2004.

The mysterious craft was observed by US Navy pilots as it soared through the sky off the coast of southern California at high speed.
This is the moment Ukrainian forces wipe out a Russian platoon pushing forward on the front line as drone footage shows a personnel carrier destroyed and fleeing troops picked off.

It comes amid the Russian army's biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in over a year, just ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, according to an AFP analysis of data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War.

In a video released by Oleksandr Pivnenko, Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine, a Russian armoured personnel carrier can be seen advancing towards the Pokrovsk front in eastern Ukraine.

Aerial reconnaissance recorded the rapid advance of the Russian platoon before Ukrainian soldiers destroyed the personnel carrier with targetted drone attacks.

Russian troops attempting to flee the scene are then shot down in a matter of seconds.

'Thanks to our professional actions, a Russian platoon was destroyed and the assault attempt was thwarted,' Pivnenko said, adding that National Guard soldiers had repelled 27 Russian assault actions on the battlefield over the past day, destroying three units of armored vehicles, eight artillery systems and more.

The Russian army took 110 square kilometres (42.5 square miles) of land in its lightning offensive on August 12 - the most territory it has seized in 24 hours since late May 2024.

The Ukrainian military estimates some 110,000 Russian troops are advancing in the direction of Pokrovsk in what may prove to be a major breakthrough for Vladimir Putin.

Aerial reconnaissance recorded the rapid advance of the Russian platoon before Ukrainian soldiers destroyed the personnel carrier with targetted drone attacks

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In recent months, Moscow has typically taken five or six days to progress at such a pace, although Russian advances have accelerated in recent weeks.

The US and Russian presidents, Donald Trump and Putin, are to meet in Alaska on Friday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged Tuesday that Russian troops had advanced by up to 10 kilometres (six miles) near the eastern coal mining town of Dobropillia, but that Kyiv would soon 'destroy them'.

Russia said Wednesday that it had taken two villages close to Dobropillia.

About 70 percent of Russia's advances in Ukraine so far this year are in the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine, which the Kremlin claimed to have annexed in September 2022.

As of August 12, Moscow controlled or claimed to control 79 percent of the region, up from 62 percent a year ago.

The Russian army has also been attempting to seize the mining town of Pokrovsk for more than 18 months, following its capture of Bakhmut in May 2023.

The last two major cities held by Kyiv in the region are also at risk. They are Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, which is an important logistical hub for the front.

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Ukrainian troops fire a self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops at an undisclosed location in the Donetsk frontline, part of the Pokrovsk defence line, on August 6

Ukrainian forces fire a BM-21 Grad multiple-launch rocket system toward Russian troops near the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, Ukraine April 9, 2025

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, has made costly but incremental gains across the sprawling front in recent months

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war

Ukrainian service members of the 25th Sicheslav Airborne Brigade fire a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launch system towards Russian troops near the frontline town of Pokrovsk, in Donetsk region, Ukraine April 19, 2025

A serviceman of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces checks the sky to look out for Russian combat drones, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

Servicemen of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fire a 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops in a front line, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

A Ukrainian National Guard serviceman of 3rd brigade runs through a tree line not far from the frontline on Pokrovsk direction, Ukraine, on Friday, August 8, 2025

Russian progress in Ukraine has accelerated every month since April.

Between August 12, 2024 and August 12, 2025, the Russian army captured more than 6,100 square kilometres, four times more than the previous year, according to the AFP analysis of the institute's data.

However, these Russian advances account for less than 1 percent of pre-war Ukraine's territory, including Crimea and Donbass.

Russia currently has full or partial control over 19 percent of Ukrainian territory.

Kyiv diverted special forces units to hold off the Russian advance on the ground and the Ukrainian army said it was engaged in 'heavy' battles.

'Our units are waging heavy defensive battles against superior enemy forces,' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Telegram, adding: 'The situation is difficult and dynamic, but the Defence Forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy enemy groups.'

It comes as the Ukrainian President travelled to Berlin on Wednesday for a German-hosted virtual meeting with Donald Trump and European leaders, two days before the U.S. president meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Europe's leaders are trying to drive home the perils of selling out Kyiv's interests at the first U.S.-Russia summit since 2021.
A record 107 small boat migrants have reached Britain in just one dinghy, confounding Labours pledge to smash the gangs.

Images from the port of Dover this morning showed human traffickers have begun to deploy a new, longer type of inflatable.

The dinghy - which can barely be described as a 'small boat' - was recovered in the Channel and taken to Dover, where it was being examined by Border Force and law enforcement, GB News reported.

It brought 107 migrants to Britain overnight, smashing the previous record of 96 people aboard one inflatable.

The appearance of the larger type of dinghy further undermines Labours decision to concentrate on law enforcement responses to smash the gangs.

Keir Starmer scrapped the previous Conservative governments Rwanda asylum scheme as one of his first acts in office, just as it was finally ready to get off the ground.

The Rwanda scheme was designed to make crossing the Channel pointless, because migrants would be sent to Rwanda to claim asylum there instead of here.

On Monday alone there were 474 Channel arrivals, pushing the total past 50,000 since Labour came to power.

A new, longer type of dinghy is being used by people traffickers. The inflatable was intercepted in the Channel by UK Border Force with an astonishing 107 people aboard - a record - and brought into the Port of Dover overnight

Migrants were seen sprinting into the surf at Gravelines beach, northern France, to get aboard a smugglers' taxi boat

Migrants, mostly male, scrambled to get aboard the inflatable, pictured off Gravelines beach in France yesterday

The migrants then set off for the UK, as the number to have reached Britain since Labour came to power topped 50,000

There were thought to have been at least 400 more yesterday but official numbers have not yet been confirmed by the Home Office.

Small boat arrivals so far this year are up 47 per cent on the same period last year, hitting record levels of more than 27,000.

The use of bigger migrant boats will be of deep concern to British officials, who have ploughed significant resources into attempts to disrupt traffickers supplies.

One maritime security source told GB News: This is highly alarming.

It looks like the smuggling gangs have specified larger boats, which we know are designed and built in back street factories in China.

Bigger boats mean bigger numbers of arrivals, at a time when we're already seeing record numbers crossing from France.

If we are witnessing the advent of a new, larger migrant boat, this is the worst possible news for those attempting to smash the gangs.

Migrants were later seen disembarking at Dover after being picked up mid-Channel by UK Border Force

A 'graveyard' of used migrant dinghies pictured near Dover earlier this year

PM Sir Keir Starmer scrapped the Tories' Rwanda asylum scheme as one of his first acts in office

Last month Labours Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt claimed a seizure of 25 dinghies in Bulgaria, in an operation involving Britains National Crime Agency, was a significant step forward in our joint work to disrupt the supply chain fuelling these dangerous small boat crossings.

Earlier this week large groups of migrants were seen sprinting into the surf off Gravelines beach, between Calais and Dunkirk, in a bid to get aboard a boat to Britain.

From first light, as French police stood and watched and a navy vessel patrolled off the coast, scores waded into the water to clamber onto a taxi boat that appeared just off shore.

The Governments much trumpeted returns deal with France appears to have done little to deter those determined to get to Britain, with at least 1,500 arrivals in the week since the one in, one out scheme launched.

Former Labour Home Secretary Baroness Jacqui Smith - now an education, women and equalities minister under Sir Keir  yesterday blamed the Conservatives for the activity of smuggling gangs on the Continent.

It is a completely legitimate claim to say that that is because what is happening is the result of the last government that chose to focus on gimmicks with the Rwanda scheme, she said.

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Asked on Sky News if the crossings were not Labours fault, Lady Smith went on: We are taking responsibility. I dont believe it is our fault that it was enabled to take root in the way in which it has done by a government who failed to do what was necessary at that point.

The last government enabled this hideous criminal activity to really get its roots into across Europe.

There was a lengthy period, at the time, in which the criminal gangs, the criminal masterminds, the organised crime who are behind this, had the opportunity to have this operation set up and really embedded.

And thats the task that this Government now has, to deconstruct that.

But her attempt to evade responsibility was met with incredulity.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: The government has now confirmed that 50,000 illegal immigrants have crossed the Channel in Labours short time in power, the worst crisis in our history.

Labour has surrendered our borders, and the consequences are being felt in our communities, from rising crime to shocking cases of rape and sexual assault by recent arrivals.

Labour has scrapped Conservative deterrents and created the conditions for chaos, leaving the British people to foot the bill.
A Colorado police chief's three-year-old daughter has been mauled to death by a former drug detection dog at their family home.

The young girl was attacked Monday in the backyard of Chief Nathan Hill's family residence in Burlington, a small city situated along the Colorado-Kansas border.

First responders arrived to the home within minutes of the attack and found the girl unresponsive in the yard alongside her frantic mother.

The child was rushed to nearby Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital and later pronounced dead. Her name has not been released.

The dog, identified as K-9 Draco, was not actively attacking the child by the time first responders arrived at the scene. He had been locked up in a secure kennel.

Draco, a German shepherd trained as a single-purpose narcotics detection K-9 for the Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, was taken to a the local pound and euthanized.

Draco had been donated to the Burlington Police Department and was 'recently taken out of service' after the sheriff's office ended its K-9 program.

Hill has been housing the dog at his residence and was not home at the time of the attack.

Burlington Police Chief Nathan Hill (pictured) is mourning the loss of his three-year-old daughter who was killed by a former drug detection dog at their family home on Monday

K-9 Draco (pictured in September 2023) attacked the three-year-old in her family's backyard

Kit Carson Sheriff Travis Beldon said the attack was out of character for Draco, who has not been trained in any kind of bite work.

'He's trained for detection. He's not in any way trained for patrol work, apprehension, anything that would involve biting,' Beldon told KUSA. 'So it is very uncharacteristic for him to attack in this fashion.'

Draco was introduced to the Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office in September 2023 after having undergone weeks of 'rigorous' training out-of-state, the department said in a Facebook post at the time.

It is unclear how long he has been inactive, but a separate Facebook post revealed he was used in a traffic stop to detect drugs as recently as June 19 this year.

Beldon claims Cheyenne County officials struggled to keep a handler for Draco, who is approximately three years old now. The sheriff described the K-9's active status as having been 'off and on recently'.

Kit Carson Sheriff's Office has not said what may have led up to the attack, but notes the incident remains under investigation.

Officials do not expect any criminal charges to be filed in the case.

The girl was rushed to nearby Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital and, despite her doctors' best efforts, later pronounced dead (file photo)

'The City of Burlington staff is a family, and our hearts are hurting for the family and those affected by this unfortunate event,' Burlington police said in a statement.

'We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Kit Carson County Sheriff's Office, Burlington Police Department, first responders and hospital staff for their swift and professional response. Their dedication and hard work in the face of adversity are truly commendable.'

Hill was appointed Burlington Police Chief in January 2021, after serving as the force's interim chief since May 2020.

He replaced Chief Barry Romans who retired from the position in November 2019 citing personal reasons, The Burlington Record reported.

'It is an honor and a privilege to have been selected as the City of Burlington's next chief of police,' Hill said at the time of his appointment.

He hailed Burlington as a 'great community to live and work in' and claimed the police department 'sincerely appreciates Burlington's citizens'.

Hill was officially appointed chief by city council after he completed a leadership training course and 'passed with flying colors'.

At the time, he was pursuing a college degree in criminal justice and had just finished establishing a network of police chiefs in the region.

Draco was used in a traffic stop to detect drugs (pictured) as recently as June 19 this year

Beldon says the tight-knit Burlington community is grieving the loss of Hill's daughter.

'It's an incident that's extremely tragic. You know it will affect this community for a little bit,' he told the news outlet. 'It's something that's gonna be in the back of everybody's mind for a while.'

Hill and his wife are also understood to share a son. It is unclear how old he is.
The Trump administration is cracking down on illegal AI chip shipments to China by placing tracking devices inside the packages.

U.S. authorities are tracing AI chips that are being diverted from their destinations by smugglers and sold to countries with export restrictions, according to a report from Reuters.

Even after President Donald Trump loosened regulation on Chinese access to American semiconductors, the trackers are still being used by the administration to build a case against individuals, as well as companies earning profits by violating US trade restrictions.

Sources told Reuters the trackers are placed in shipments of servers from large U.S. chip makers, including Nvidia and AMD. Moreover, server manufacturers such as Dell and Super Micro are equipped with US trackers.

The tracking devices are reportedly placed in the packaging of the server shipments.

A variety of US agencies are involved in the effort, including the Bureau of Industry and Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The report was unable to determine when the trackers are installed on the chips during the shipping process.

However, in one case, trackers were placed inside the packaging of a shipment of Dell servers with Nvidia chips. Authorities even found a way to hide the trackers within the servers themselves, Reuters reported.

US authorities often place the tracking devices inside the packaging of AI chip shipments

In recent years, the White House has placed restrictions on US chip manufacturers from exporting to China and Russia

Trump made a deal earlier this week to allow Nvidia and AMD to sell certain chips to China

For decades, law enforcement has used location tracking devices to combat semiconductor smugglers seeking to evade US trade restrictions.

In 2022, the U.S. began barring the sale of AI chips manufactured by Nvidia and AMD to China.

Chip smugglers have, in some cases, discovered the tracking devices and removed them from Dell and Super Micro servers. Reports state the largest trackers were approximately the size of a cell phone.

Following the report, Dell released a statement claiming the company is not aware of a U.S. Government initiative to place trackers in its product shipments.

Meanwhile, Super Micro told Reuters it will not discuss its security practices and policies in place to protect our worldwide operations, partners, and customers.

The U.S. has sought to control the flow of AI chip exports in recent years to curb Chinas technological advancement of its military. Restrictions were also placed on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.

Homeland Security and the Justice Department are involved with the AI chip tracking effort

In the past, congressional lawmakers have urged U.S. chip makers to install location verification technology on their products to help combat smugglers.

Despite these restrictions, Trump on Monday made a deal with Nvidia and AMD to ship certain AI chip products to China.

The companies agreed to pay the US government 15 percent of their revenue from sales of AI chips. The White House indicated on Tuesday that future deals could be on the table for other chip makers.
Greece on Wednesday battled to contain more than 20 wildfires, with flames descending on its third-largest city and forcing thousands of evacuations as a scorching heatwave continues to tear through Europe.

Residents and tourists today fled the popular holiday islands of Zakynthos and Cephalonia as fires ripped through houses and farmland.

A blaze near the ancient Mycenaean archaeological site of Voudeni, just four miles from Patras, Greece's third-largest city, threatened forested zones and homes, while 7,700 people were evacuated from a nearby town.

Since dawn on Wednesday, 4,850 firefighters and 33 planes were mobilised across Greece on what promised to be 'a very difficult day', fire service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said.

Fierce wind 'is hampering the task of water bombers, and is making collecting water at sea more difficult', the president of the firefighter officers' union, Kostas Tsigkas, told public broadcaster ERT.

In the western Achaia region in the Peloponnese, to which the coastal city of Patras belongs, around 20 villages were evacuated on Tuesday.

Other fronts were burning on the popular tourist island of Zante and the Aegean island of Chios, scarred by a huge wildfire in June that ravaged more than 4,000 hectares.

The Greek coastguard said it had helped evacuate nearly 80 people from Chios and near Patras.

A firefighting airplane battles a wildfire burning in the area of Lithakia in Zakynthos island, western Greece, 13 August 2025

Local firefighters and residents try to extinguish a wildfire at Limnos village on Chios island, Greece

A firefighter runs at a house as a fire approaching a house during a wildfire in Vounteni, on the outskirts of Patras, western Greece, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025

The national ambulance service reported 52 hospitalisations from Achaia, Chios and the western town of Preveza, including 'a small number of firefighters', mostly for respiratory problems and minor burns.

Temperatures are due to come close to 40C in parts of western Greece on Wednesday, including the northwest Peloponnese, national weather service EMY forecast.

After Greece requested four water bombers from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to bolster its resources, leftist opposition party Syriza criticised the conservative government's preparation for the fires that hit every year.

Greece needed 'a bold redistribution of resources in favour of civil protection', an 'emphasis on prevention', better coordination and new technologies in its civil protection system, Syriza said.

Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, the Balkans and Britain have this week wilted in high temperatures that fuel wildfires and which scientists say human-induced climate change is intensifying.

Wildfires have continued to rip through Spain, where cooler temperatures and greater humidity were expected to help control blazes in which two people have died.

Authorities in the northwestern region of Castile and Leon, where flames have threatened a world heritage Roman mining site, said almost 6,000 people from 26 localities had been evacuated from their homes.

Bushy undergrowth and searing temperatures that have baked Spain for almost two weeks had created 'the worst possible breeding ground for this situation', Castile and Leon's civil protection head Irene Cortes said.

Since dawn on Wednesday, 4,850 firefighters and 33 planes were mobilised across Greece

At least 7,700 people were evacuated near the city of Patras

Temperatures are due to come close to 40C in parts of western Greece on Wednesday

Burned cars are seen at an impound lot in Kato Achaia, during a wildfire near Patras city, western Greece, Wednesday, Aug. 13

Firefighters battle to put out a fire burning a house during a wildfire in Vounteni village, Achaia, Peloponnese, Greece, 13 August 2025

A resident battles a wildfire in Vounteni village, Achaia, Peloponnese

Madrid was hit by fireballs on Monday night as a hellish blaze fuelled by strong winds burned several houses in the capital's suburbs.

At least 180 people were evacuated overnight from Tres Cantos, an affluent suburb northeast of Madrid, after wildfires tore through homes and farmland.

A farmer who had been taken by helicopter to the La Paz hospital after suffering burns on 98 percent of his body, later died, the Community of Madrid confirmed on Tuesday.

He reportedly sustained his injuries while trying to rescue 27 horses, who were also killed in the blaze.

Spanish authorities said today a 35-year-old volunteer firefighter died on Tuesday while trying to extinguish a wildfire.

Kings College, a prestigious British private school, is also understood to have suffered some damage, and a donkey shelter burned down.

Due to the speed of winds, the flames quickly spread and reached the Norman pharmaceutical laboratories, where sounds of explosions were reportedly heard.

'In barely 40 minutes, the fire advanced six kilometres,' Carlos Novillo, Madrid's regional environment chief, told reporters.

Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, the Balkans and Britain have this week wilted in high temperatures that fuel wildfires. Pictured: Residents watch as smoke rises from a fire that broke out late the previous day in the surroundings of Maceda in Galicia, northwestern Spain, 10 August 2025

Extreme heat and strong winds in Spain caused 'fire whirls' on Monday night. Pictured: Madrid firefighters are seen battling a forest fire in the northeastern suburb of Tres Cantos

Screengrab shows hellish wildfires last night lighting up Madrid's skyline

Flames quickly spread and reached the Norman pharmaceutical laboratories on the outskirts of Madrid, where sounds of explosions were reportedly heard

A policeman directs a car during a wildfire as the Community of Madrid has declared operational status 2 for the Special Emergency Civil Protection Plan for Forest Fires (Infoma) due to the vegetation fire in the Madrid town of Tres Cantos, Spain

People stand as sparks fly in the bacground during a wildfire in Tres Cantos, near Madrid, Spain, August 11, 2025

The inferno then spread to the adjacent affluent suburbs of Fuente del Fresno and Soto de Vinuelas, where residents remained on evacuation alerts overnight.

Footage shared on social media showed how flames spread through forested areas, while thick smoke billowed into the sky.

Other videos showed how strong winds pushed blazes across fields as fire services rushed to contain the inferno.

Firefighters managed to contain the wildfire near the Spanish capital by Tuesday morning thanks to favourable overnight conditions, regional authorities said.

A total of 199 wildfires have scorched nearly 98,784 hectares across Spain this year, more than double the area burned during the same period in 2024.

Neighbouring Portugal deployed more than 1,800 firefighters and around 20 aircraft against five major blazes, with efforts focused on a blaze in the central municipality of Trancoso that has raged since Saturday.

Strong gusts of wind had rekindled flames overnight and threatened nearby villages, where television images showed locals volunteering to help the firefighters under a thick cloud of smoke.

'It's scary... but we are always ready to help each other,' a mask-wearing farmer told Sic Noticias television, holding a spade in his hand.

Elsewhere in Europe, wildfires have continued to burn. Pictured: Firefighter teams continue their efforts to extinguish the fire that broke out in the forest area of Kepez region in Canakkale, Turkiye on August 11, 2025

Firefighters try to extinguish a wildfire in Trancoso, Portugal on August 12, 2025

Italian firefighters had extinguished a blaze that burned for five days on the famed Mount Vesuvius and spewed plumes of smoke over the Naples area.

In Britain, temperatures were expected to peak at 34C in the country's fourth heatwave of the summer.

The UK Health Security Agency warned of 'significant impacts' on health and social care services for the parts of central and southeastern England where the harshest heat was forecast.
Sir Keir Starmer led tributes today to Welsh Labour's Hefin David following the politician's sudden death aged 47.

The Prime Minister said the Caerphilly MS, who had been a member of the Welsh Parliament since 2016, was 'a powerful voice for the people of Wales'.

'The entire Labour movement will join me in grieving the loss of Hefin David,' Sir Keir said.

'He was a powerful voice for the people of Wales and a committed public servant.'

The PM added that Mr David had 'dedicated his life to making sure every person and community in Wales had the opportunities and support they deserve'.

Eluned Morgan, the Welsh First Minister and Welsh Labour leader, described Mr David as a 'much-loved' member of the Labour family who will be greatly missed.

Mr David's partner was Vikki Howells, the Cynon Valley MS and minister for further and higher education in the Welsh Government.

Welsh Labour's Hefin David, the Caerphilly MS, had been a member of the Welsh Parliament since 2016

Baroness Morgan said: 'We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time.

'Hefin was a much-loved member of the Labour family. He served Caerphilly as a councillor and a Member of the Senedd with pride and passion.

'He was an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator  especially on behalf of his constituents. He will be greatly missed.'

Mr David, who was born in the Caerphilly constituency, was elected to Caerphilly County Borough Council at a by-election in March 2007.

He worked as a senior lecturer at Cardiff Metropolitan University, teaching human resource management and professional practice to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

In 2016, he was elected as Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly  succeeding Labour's Jeff Cuthbert, who became police and crime commissioner for Gwent.

Gwent Police said a 47-year-old man was found unresponsive at a property in the Caerphilly county area on Tuesday.

Paramedics attended and confirmed the man had died. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Tributes have been paid to Mr David by politicians across the Senedd, with former Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies calling it 'heartbreaking and tragic news'.

Delyth Jewell, Plaid MS for the South Wales East region, said: 'The news about Hefin David is so desperately tragic.

'Hefin was always steadfast in his views, loyal to his roots, and he represented this area diligently.

'We were from different parties but worked together on many local issues. I will miss him. What a sad and dreadful loss.'

Gwent Police Chief Constable Mark Hobrough said: 'My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to all of Hefin's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time for them.

'After I joined Gwent Police as the chief superintendent for the area covering Caerphilly, I worked closely with Hefin on many occasions and I found him to be an engaging and thoughtful individual.

'A dedicated public servant to Caerphilly, his commitment to our communities will be a significant loss.'
Donald Trump raged against those critical of him for inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin onto U.S. soil for a meeting later this week.

The high-stakes meeting on Friday in Anchorage, Alaska, between the two leaders is aimed at putting an end to Russia's war in Ukraine after years of bloody fighting.

But European leaders are worried that Trump will bow to Putin's push to include in the peace deal the annexation of more land to Moscow.

Trump is speaking Wednesday morning with those leaders, including Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, who plan to pressure him to take a stand against Putin.

In a post to Truth Social, the president slammed his ex-National Security Advisor John Bolton, one of his top critics, who said that by bringing Putin to Alaska, Russia has already 'won.'

Trump said that his former aide and the media are 'working overtime' to push a narrative that he will make a 'bad deal' in peace deal negotiations with Russia.

'Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin,' Trump posted to Truth Social on Wednesday. 'Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton.'

'They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our country,' the president lamented.

President Donald Trump defended himself against 'fake news' attacks on his decision to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin to U.S. soil for a meeting on ending the war with Ukraine

Putin will sit down with Trump in Alaska on Friday, August 15 for the first in-person meeting of the president's second term

Trump slammed the media and former National Security Advisor John Bolton for claims that Putin 'won' by being invited to Alaska for the summit

Trump is heading to Alaska on Friday to meet in person with Putin for the first time of his second term. According to both Moscow and Washington, D.C., the two leaders have spoken on the phone a handful of times since Trump's reelection.

The president mistakingly said during a press conference on Monday that he was going to meet with Putin in Russia.

The White House said Trump will treat the summit as a 'listening exercise' and insisted he is 'determined to try to end this war [in Ukraine] and stop the killing.'

But European leaders are anxious that the terms Trump reaches with Putin will include handing over parts of Ukraine to Russia.

Trump said last week: 'There'll be some land swapping going on.'

But he also vowed to attempt to recover some of Ukraine's territory currently held by Russia.

'It's very gracious of Putin to come to former Russian-America for this summit,' Bolton sarcastically told CNN. 'This is not quite as bad as Trump inviting the Taliban to Camp David but it certainly reminds one of that.'

'The only better place for Putin than Alaska would be if the summit were being held in Moscow,' Bolton continued. 'So the initial setup, I think, is a great victory for Putin. He's a rogue leader of a pariah state and he's going to be welcomed into the United States.'

'I have a feeling this is sliding, very quickly, in Russia's direction,' Trump's former NSA continued. 'And it seems to me, listen[ing] to Trump talking about how things are progressing, that even without the meeting, Putin's got his old magic back with Trump.'

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European Leaders are prepared to support Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's stance in Wednesday's call with Trump.

Starmer insists a peace deal 'must be built with Ukraine, not imposed upon it.'

They are also expected to argue that Putin can't be rewarded with even more territory despite his aggression towards Ukraine.

'Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while,' Trump posted to Truth Social on Wednesday morning. 'They are great people who want to see a deal done.'

Bolton told CNN: 'The initial setup, I think, is a great victory for Putin.... I have a feeling this is sliding, very quickly, in Russia's direction'

Zelensky  who is excluded from the upcoming meeting  warned Russia is 'readying for a new offensive' rather than preparing to end the war.

Speaking at a White House briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: 'This is a listening exercise for the President. Only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present, so this is for the President to go and get a more firm understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end.'

'The President wants a peace deal, he wants to see this war come to an end. But this bilateral meeting is a bilateral meeting between one party in a two-party war  you need both countries to agree to a deal.'

Leavitt also suggested that Trump might soon visit Putin in Moscow , saying 'perhaps there are plans.'
Dramatic footage shows the chaos onboard a British Ryanair flight after a fight sparked by a crying baby broke out.

Police were called after a fight broke out between two passengers on the flight, understood to be flight FR1882, on August 12.

Footage taken on the plane, which was flying from London Stansted to Lisbon, showed multiple children wailing as dozens of people shouted over each other.

One mother was seen trying to console her child, telling them: 'It's okay, it's okay. We're going now.'

One man appeared to restrain another in front of the mother trying to console her young child.

Local media reported that tempers only flared when the plane landed in Lisbon and headed for the gate.

Because police were called to deal with the escalating tensions, everyone onboard was held on the plane for roughly an hour.

A Ryanair spokesperson told the Daily Mail: 'The crew of this flight from London Stansted to Lisbon called for police assistance after two passengers became disruptive onboard. The aircraft was met by local police and these passengers were removed.

'Ryanair has a strict zero tolerance policy towards passenger misconduct and will continue to take decisive action to combat unruly passenger behaviour, ensuring that all passengers and crew travel in a safe and respectful environment, without unnecessary disruption.

'This is a matter for local police.'

Earlier this month, a young man caused a two-hour flight delay after he was escorted off a Ryanair plane by six cops for allegedly vaping in the toilet.

Local media reported that tempers only flared when the plane landed in Lisbon and headed for the gate

Police were called after a fight broke out between two passengers on the flight, understood to be flight FR1882, on August 12

One mother was seen trying to console her child, telling them: 'It's okay, it's okay. We're going now'

One man appeared to restrain another in front of the mum trying to console her young child

Police were called after a fight broke out between two passengers on the flight, understood to be flight FR1882

The 21-year-old was removed after being accused of committing an aviation offence.

Footage of the incident was captured by fellow passenger Tristan James Walker captured after he claims the toilet smoke alarm was set off.

The incident took place at Edinburgh Airport on a Ryanair plane heading to Alicante, Spain.

According to Mr Walker, 39, the flight was set to depart at 9.45am only for it to be allegedly delayed due to staff sickness.

After the alarm sounded, the pilot is said to have informed the 21-year-old 'vaper' he would be removed from the plane.

Mr Walker said that at least six officers boarded the aircraft to remove the man, who was taken into a van.

Police confirmed the 21-year-old was charged in connection with an aviation offence.
A coastal town in Maine once known for crime and the smell of rotting fish has rewarded longtime residents who bought early, with real estate values doubling in the last two decades.

In the 1970s, Rockland had one of the highest crime rates in Maine, a state that routinely ranks as one of the safest in the US.

And in the 1980s, the town had a herring rendering plant downtown that emitted an unbearable odor.

Eventually industries like this were replaced by art galleries and restaurants, making Rockland look more like the typical Maine vacation destination.

Joan Merriam, a former schoolteacher, bought land on Rockland's south end 15 years ago, hoping to spend her retirement where she grew up, she told Bangor Daily News.

Her property and the modular home she added were initially worth about $200,000 put together.

This summer, Merriam's property doubled in value after Rockland completed its first revaluation in 20 years.

While this may sound good, it could lead to property tax increases for residents who have suddenly found themselves the owners of more expensive homes.

Rockland, Maine, once known for crime and a persistent rotting fish smell, is now an enviable property hotspot with real estate values climbing thanks to the city's recent tax revaluation

While some welcoming the more bustling streets and growing creative scene that have come as a result of rising property values and the decline of industry, people with low or fixed incomes are worried they won't be able to afford to live in Rockland

Merriam said at least two homes in her neighborhood have been listed for sale because the older owners are afraid of hikes.

Merriam, who lives on a fixed income, said she can keep with her taxes now but that it is tight.

She knows others in the town who have had their properties skyrocket in value, and also mentioned that her family members in nearby Camden were reeling when that town did a revaluation last year.

Critics of the current revaluations going on in towns across Maine say that they should be done more regularly to prevent the shock to residents.

Former assessors agent Jim Murphy told the Belfast City Council that its revaluation last year is devastating many residents. It was the first one its done in the last 21 years.

'How it affects people in town is tragic, in some cases,' Murphy said. 'By not doing revaluations on a regular basis, we are taxing people out of their homes.'

A half an hour east in Bucksport, where the states assessment of property values has risen by more than $270 million in the last five years, residents took to social media last month to report that their tax bills had tripled in the last three years.

Jason Bishop, who lives in Bucksport, told Bangor Daily News that his taxes have doubled in two years.

Belfast (pictured) is another Maine town that chose to do a revaluation for the first time in 21 years. Critics say this has devastated many residents

One of the biggest drivers of local tax increases in Bucksport (pictured) and other Maine towns has been the loss of industry, which used to make up a lot of the tax base

'The fact is this is a failure and hard choices will have to be made by the town to cut and by residents to decide if they want to stay or sell for whatever they can get,' Bishop said.

Bishop is pushing to recall the entire town council, or at least the members who aren't up for re-election this fall.

One of the biggest drivers of local tax increases in Bucksport and other Maine towns has been the loss of industry, which used to make up a lot of the tax base.

The Verso Paper Mill in Bucksport, which closed in 2014, used to make up 40 percent of the tax base, which has led officials to try to attract new industry.

Before the mill's closure, the town saved $8 million to forestall tax increases, but more than 10 years later, that money is running dry.

'While these adjustments are difficult, they are necessary to ensure the Town can continue to provide essential services and maintain long term financial health,' a statement on Bucksport's town website said.

In Rockland, Merriam does see the upside of the revaluation, as it has brought newcomers who are artistic and well-educated. They have built new galleries and are contributing to a growing creative scene.

But still, teachers, police officers and other local workers are having trouble finding housing that is affordable, Merriam said.

'I feel like the people that have lived here for generations feel like they dont have as much say,' she said.
Mystery remains over the grisly death of an unidentified man whose 'shredded' body parts were found at a skip yard almost three years ago.

The man's mulched remains were unearthed by horrified workers at Skelton Skips, in Knowsthorpe Way, Leeds in October 2022.

Police today said they could not 'rule out' if he had been the victim of a gangland hit - with investigators from Britain's own FBI, the National Crime Agency, now involved in the probe.

The man's body parts were put through an industrial machine at the waste plant which, ground them into a bloody pulp.

A severed foot was found by staff on a conveyor belt, while a further search by police discovered parts of his head and neck, pieces of his chest, abdomen and limbs in other parts of the facility. All his internal organs were also missing, an inquest heard.

The man, aged at least 22, is thought to have had his fingers removed, making identification of the remains even trickier. His toes had also been 'bluntly amputated'.

Despite an extensive investigation by West Yorkshire Police, detectives and forensic experts were unable to identify the male.

Speaking today, Temporary Detective Superintendent Damian Roebuck of West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry Team told the Daily Mail: 'His death is being treated as unexplained and we therefore cannot at this time rule out the possibility that he died in suspicious circumstances.

The 'shredded' remains of a man were found at by horrified workers at Skelton Skips, in Knowsthorpe Way, Leeds in October 2022

'A full DNA profile has been obtained, but this does not match any individual profile held on the National DNA database.

'We have worked with the National Missing Persons Unit and Interpol to try and identify the male but again there has been no match.

'Enquiries will remain ongoing into the mans death and his identity, and we will continue to work with our forensic team and colleagues from the National Crime Agency.'

An inquest into the man's death, held at Wakefield Coroners' Court this week, heard his body parts had been 'completely disrupted' by the machine's shredding process, which is designed to chop items into chunks no bigger than 12 inches.

The human remains had been examined by Home Office pathologist Dr Michael Parsons, who said the body parts had been found full of dirt and debris from the shredding process.

In a 32-page report to Coroner Oliver Longstaff, Dr Parsons said the body had been so disfigured, it was impossible to say what happened in the moments before it was ripped apart

The examination found 'no marks to support dismemberment' by a knife or similar.

Dr Parsons said there was nothing to suggest the man had been assaulted but it was unrealistic to exclude the possibility that a third party had been involved in his death in some way.

Forensic experts trawled every area of the site to recover the unknown male's remains

Temporary Detective Superintendent Damian Roebuck (pictured) of West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said officers were still trying to identify the man

The pathologist was also unable to confirm whether the man was alive or dead when he entered the waste processor.

However, toxicology tests suggested he was not intoxicated at the time of his death.

The man, thought to be between 5ft 6in and 5ft 8ins had dark hair, dark stubble, dark body hair, and relatively light skin.

He had poor dental health and had feet that were at least a UK size five. No tattoos or distinctive marks were found.

Dr Parsons concluded the cause of the man's death may never be known. The coroner described the body as being in a state of 'catastrophic disruption' due to being 'shredded' at the waste depot.

'The state of the remains meant that no cause of death could be given,' said Dr Parsons.

He recorded an open conclusion, a legal term which means that there was insufficient evidence to provide answers to the key questions.

Mr Longstaff publicly thanked Dr Parsons and his anthropologist colleagues Dr Julie Roberts and Dr Micol Zuppello for their work on a 'very unusual and very sad case'.

The police investigation focused on the theory that the body was unwittingly deposited at the waste plant by a refuse truck in the preceding week.

A spokesperson for Skelton Ltd told the Daily Mail: 'This was a tragic event which remains extremely traumatic for everyone at the company, which is a small, family-owned business.

'We've given every possible help and assistance to the police investigation and we hope that the man can one day be identified.

'Our thoughts remain with him and his family.'

Anyone with information about the man is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police by calling 101 or go online, quoting reference 392 of 31/10/2022.

Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
A Louisiana woman lovingly nursed a baby deer back to health before state officials removed the animal from her property and 'cruelly' euthanized it.

Kimberly Graham, 63, of Greenburg, near Baton Rouge, rescued an injured fawn her granddaughter named BabyBelle off I-12 after receiving an urgent call on July 27, she revealed in a Facebook post.

She gave the small white-tailed animal fluids and bottle-fed it after it had been wandering around injured for two days.

Four days into her caring for the fawn, the Louisiana Department Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) showed up after receiving a tip from someone who reportedly spotted the deer wearing a 'hunter's orange collar' around its neck.

They stated that Graham was running an illegal deer rehabilitation center at her home, according to the report, which was viewed by Daily Mail. She also allegedly told authorities that the deer had been on her property for 10 days at that point.

After packing the baby deer up in a cat carrier, officials allegedly euthanized BabyBelle just 20 minutes later.

'He just outright said: "The deer was euthanized 20 minutes after leaving your house,"' she told the WBRZ.

'They allowed me to glove my hands, feed her a bottle and potty her before putting her in a cat kennel to take her off.'

Graham had been hopeful the fawn would survive and be released back into the wild, as BabyBelle had made significant strides in just a few days in her care.

Kimberly Graham, 63, of Greenburg, near Baton Rouge, rescued an injured fawn her granddaughter named BabyBelle (pictured) after receiving an urgent call on July 27

She gave the small white-tailed animal fluids and bottle-fed it after it had wandered from doorstep to doorstep injured for two days

'In a moment of crisis, I did what I was trained to do and save a helpless, tiny life. I fought hard for her, administering drugs I use on my horses. My fight wasnt enough and she was destroyed by gunfire,' she claimed on Facebook.

Graham, who did not have a permit to rehabilitate animals on her property, called the incident 'incredibly cruel.'

LDWF denied shooting the animal, but did not publicly release its method of euthanasia for BabyBelle.

The LDWF report did say the animal was euthanized because she had spent too much time in captivity away from her mother and would be unable to survive on her own.

State Representative Lauren Ventrella, who is also an attorney, is now representing Graham and they are hoping to reach an amicable resolution.

They are calling for an oversight hearing to help change the process at a legislative level.

'You have to look at the humanity of the situation of what is right and what is just,' Ventrella said.

'We know what the law says, but we have to utilize some common sense and what is best for the people.'

Four days later, the Louisiana Department Wildlife and Fisheries showed up after receiving a tip that Graham was running an illegal deer rehabilitation center at her home

Graham had been hopeful the fawn would survive and be released back into the wild, as BabyBelle had made significant strides in just the four days in her care

After packing the baby deer up in a cat carrier, officials allegedly euthanized BabyBelle just 20 minutes later. She called the incident 'incredibly cruel'

LDWF, however, told Daily Mail: 'Spotted fawns are especially vulnerable, so they are afforded heightened protection from private possession under the law.

'When we find illegally possessed captive wildlife, we make every effort to return them safely and humanely to their natural habitat.

'As part of that mission, LDWF enforces laws set by the legislature to keep wildlife wild and protected in its native habitat.'

The organization also reminded the public to leave fawns alone as it is 'against the law to capture young deer or any other wild animal.'

'Though they may appear to be vulnerable and in need of assistance, newborn fawns rely on concealment during the first few weeks of life. Does only return periodically to briefly nurse the young fawn during this stage of life. The lack of flight and absence of the doe creates an illusion of abandonment,' a memo read.

Daily Mail has reached out to Graham for comment.
A US Navy sailor who is believed to have fallen overboard off the coast of Australia has been declared lost at sea.

Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV, 19, vanished from the USS George Washington vessel on July 28.

The 19-year-old, from Middleburg, Florida, was an airman serving as an aviation boatswain's mate on the aircraft carrier at the time of his disappearance.

His heartbroken parents revealed that just hours before he is believed to have fallen overboard, he spoke with them over the phone and had a 'positive' catch-up on his life.

But they said that he also complained about being fatigued because of the long days on the ship, and his father Juan told News4Jax that he 'noticed his tiredness'.

'I said, "Youre the best of me. Youve been to places Ive never been and we are so proud of you",' he recalled. 'That was the last thing I said to my son.'

An urgent search-and-rescue operation was launched after Rivera Lynch disappeared from the aircraft carrier, which included several other US Navy vessels and scoured over 2,200 square miles.

The Australian Defense and Australian Border Forces also assisted in the search efforts, but officials called it off after 45 hours, the Navy said. River Lynch was declared dead on August 1.

US Navy sailor Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV, 19, was declared lost at sea after he is believed to have fallen overboard off the coast of Australia on July 28

The 19-year-old, from Middleburg, Florida, was an airman on the USS George Washington aircraft carrier

Rivera Lynch's family said he, 'faithfully served his country with honor, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.'

'Jose was more than a sailor  he was a loving son, a cherished brother, and a loyal friend whose laughter and light touched everyone around him,' they wrote on a GoFundMe.

'His sudden loss has left our family heartbroken and navigating the unimaginable grief of losing someone so young and full of promise.'

His father added that his son came from a long line of military servicemen, also including his grandfather and sister.

'He is my hero,' the grief-stricken father said.

'He was vibrant, educated, humble. He served his country, he served the Navy and he has made his family proud.'

The sailor's parents said they spoke to him over the phone just hours before he fell overboard, and described him as 'vibrant, educated, and humble'

Rivera Lynch first enlisted in the military as a 17-year-old in high school. He joined the USS George Washington (pictured) in January and was on board off Australia as it sailed through the Timor Sea when he went missing

Rivera Lynch first enlisted in the military as a 17-year-old in high school, and joined up as part of the Navy's delayed enlistment program.

He joined the USS George Washington in January and was on board off Australia as it sailed through the Timor Sea when he went missing.

In a statement after the airman was declared dead, Carrier Strike Group 5 commander Rear Adm. Eric Anduze paid tribute to the young recruit.

'Our thoughts and prayers remain with Airman Rivera Lynchs family, friends, and shipmates during this incredibly difficult time,' he said.

'The courage and dedication shown by all personnel involved in this operation exemplifies the professionalism and commitment that defines our Navy.'
A woman has died after falling from a tower block in Canary Wharf.

Paramedics were called to Sirocco Tower, Harbour Way at 6.37am today after the woman fell from the 32-floor skyscraper.

A trauma team from Londons Air Ambulance rushed to the scene, but the woman, in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A forensic tent and cordon were set up at the scene.

The incident happened less than half a mile from the four-star Britannia International Hotel, where migrants were moved earlier this month under the cover of darkness.

The incident is not connected to the Britannia Hotel, which has been embroiled in controversy over migrants being housed there.

Tower Hamlets Council confirmed the Government intended to use the hotel - which has around 500 rooms - for asylum seekers in a move that has angered anti-migrant protesters and guests whose bookings have been cancelled.

The crime scene has been erected outside Sirocco Tower, Harbour Way, a 32-floor skyscraper (pictured)

The incident occurred less than half a mile away from the four-star Britannia International Hotel (pictured)

The migrant hotel in Canary Wharf has been at the heart of protests for almost two weeks and on Friday swarms of anti-migrant protesters descended upon the migrant accommodation (pictured)

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A resident said they heard sirens in the area at around 6am this morning but the exact nature of the incident is not yet clear.

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called at 6.37am today to reports of a person fallen from height on Harbour Way, Isle of Dogs.

'We sent resources to the scene, including an ambulance crew, a paramedic in a fast response car and an incident response officer.

'We also dispatched a trauma team in a car from London's Air Ambulance. Very sadly, a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.'

A spokesperson for the Met said: 'At around 06:39hrs on Wednesday, 13 August police responded to calls that a person had fallen from height in Harbour Way, Canary Wharf.

'Police and the London Ambulance Service attended the scene but sadly a woman in her 20s was pronounced dead at the scene.

'Her next of kin have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers.

'At this time her death is being treated as unexpected and enquiries continue.'

The migrant hotel in Canary Wharf has been at the heart of protests for almost two weeks.

On Friday, swarms of anti-migrant protesters descended upon the migrant hotel and footage showed protesters battling with police outside the accommodation in east London.

Officers were seen pinning some activists to the ground, with two arrests made.

This is a breaking story, more to follow.
A so-called 'neighbor from hell' has mounted a deafening train horn to the roof of his home and blasts it up to three times a day amid an ongoing neighbor dispute.

Gary Boyadzhian, 50, has admitted to blasting the horn daily to get the attention of LAPD.

Neighbors on a street in Van Nuys, Los Angeles, say they've been enduring the blasts for months with no end in sight.

'I know it's not fair to my neighbors, absolutely,' Boyadzhian told ABC7. 'If I were in their shoes, I would complain too. It is loud. It is disturbing.'

Boyadzhian says he sounds both his home alarm and a set of three ear-splitting train horns nearly every day, sometimes for several minutes at a time.

'I need help. I don't know how else to cry out for it. That's why I'm setting off the sirens,' he said. 'I'm crying out for help.'

Boyadzhian has not disclosed what the dispute is about but neighbors are fed up.

There are signs posted across the neighborhood, urging residents to call police when they hear the blasts.

A so-called 'neighbor from hell' has mounted a deafening train horn to the roof of his home and blasts it up to three times a day amig an ongoing neighbor dispute

One resident, who didn't want her name used, told the outlet that police rarely arrive in time to catch Boyadzhian in the act.

'It makes the windows rumble,' she said. 'He does it and then he stops, and by the time (the police) get out here 40 minutes later... they can't do anything. They've been out here three days in a row.'

Other residents described the sound as 'piercing' and 'horrific' to FOX11.

All of a sudden, you know, this nut, first he turns on his house alarm and he has that gone on and on and on. And then periodically he has the horn, debbie, a neighbor, told FOX11. And it's so freaking loud.

My brother, he works at night. He goes to bed, so he's trying to sleep. And this idiot's over here. And literally it goes on for sometimes hours.'

You'll see him out in the yard at midnight with a light on his forehead, working in the yard, cutting the tree in the dark, she added.

I mean. He's a real nut.

There are signs posted across the neighborhood, urging residents to call police when they hear the blasts. But LAPD officers have reportedly told the neighbors they need to witness the noise firsthand to issue a citation

Other residents described the sound as 'piercing' and 'horrific.' A neighborn named Debbie (pictured left) called the man 'a real nut.'

So far, he had not received a citation from police because they have never come in time to catch him in the act.

LAPD officers have reportedly told the neighbors they need to witness the noise firsthand to issue a citation.

'Regarding the location, we are in talks with the city attorney about options, as well as using other department resources to assist,' LAPD's Van Nuys division said.
A father of 20 was shot dead near a Georgia bus station while carrying out an armed robbery, according to police.

D'Anthony Reaves, 44, was fatally shot at 5.24am on July 19 near the Greyhound station near downtown Atlanta.

Officers with the Atlanta Police Department and medical personnel soon arrived at the scene and found Reaves, who 'sustained multiple apparent gunshot wounds.'

Reaves, who had 12 biological children and eight stepchildren, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Nearly a month later, homicide detectives discovered Reaves 'was in the commission of an armed robbery when he was fatally shot,' police said.

The details surrounding the robbery remain unclear, but police have classified his death 'as a felon killed by a private citizen.'

When contacted by Daily Mail, a spokesperson with the Atlanta Police Department said 'no further information is available for release on the incident.'

Reaves's family believe he was shot by someone while getting off the bus.

D'Anthony Reaves, 44, was shot to death around 5.24am on July 19 near the Greyhound station near downtown Atlanta, Georgia

This week, the Atlanta Police Department said he was carrying out an armed robbery at the time of his death

'I could not process what happened,' a loved one told Channel 2. 'Then they told me he got shot in the face twice, and that made it so much worse.

'I swear that whole neighborhood couldve heard me [scream].'

Reaves' family and friends gathered in his honor the night of his death for a candlelight vigil at a local park just steps away from where he lost his life.

Cheryl Heart, the mother of one of his children, told the outlet: 'It's really heartbreaking.'

One of his daughters, Shamiracle Brown, recalled speaking to her father the night before.

'I actually had a show tonight. I perform at 12:30, and he bought a ticket,' Brown said.

'He was supposed to come. He came to every show. He never missed a show since I started making music. He was very supportive. He was always there.'

Brown said her late father was supposed to attend the musical the night of his death.

Reaves had 12 biological children and eight stepchildren

The details surrounding the robbery remain unclear, but police have classified his death 'as a felon killed by private citizen'

Another one of her daughters, Arianna James, said: 'I'm just going to miss him.'

Reaves's family said he planned to start a program called 'Power of Fathers' in the Zone 3 neighborhood.

'He wanted to help fathers get off the street, get their GEDs,' his brother, Deoineta Hightower, explained.

A GoFundMe page was created by his family to raise money to end gun violence and help give Reaves a proper send off.

'What was taken from us was a loving father, brother, cousin and son,' the page read.

'He was the life of the party by all that knew him. Dinky you will be truly missed by so many family and friends.'

As of Wednesday morning, nearly $3,000 was raised.

Reaves's viewing was held on August 1 and his celebration of life was held on August 2.
David Lammy left himself on the hook for a 2,500 fine after he failed to get a rod licence before fishing with US vice-president JD Vance.

The Foreign Secretary has referred himself to the environment watchdog over the 'administrative oversight' when he cast away with Mr Vance last week.

Anglers in England and Wales aged 13 or over must have a rod licence to fish for freshwater species, such as carp, according to the Environment Agency.

Those without a licence are warned they face a fine of up to 2,500 if they are fishing and cannot show a valid rod licence when asked.

Mr Lammy failed to catch any fish when he hosted Mr Vance at his grace-and-favour retreat at Chevening House in Kent last Friday.

During his visit, the US vice-president described Mr Lammy as a 'good friend' and a 'very, very gracious host'.

Mr Vance added: 'Unfortunately, the one strain on the special relationship is that all of my kids caught fish, but the Foreign Secretary did not.'

It is understood that all fish that were caught were returned to the private lake.

David Lammy could be on the hook for a 2,500 fine after he failed to get a rod licence before fishing with US vice-president JD Vance

The Foreign Secretary has referred himself to the environment watchdog over the 'administrative oversight' when he cast away with Mr Vance last week

Mr Lammy failed to catch any fish when he hosted Mr Vance at his grace-and-favour retreat at Chevening House in Kent last Friday.

The US vice-president visited Chevening while in Britain for a holiday in the Cotswolds with his family.

Mr Vance has since met senior Tories Robert Jenrick and Chris Philp, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, and Thomas Skinner - a pillow salesman who appeared on series 15 of The Apprentice - while in the UK.

Mr Farage said today: 'Good to catch up with my old friend JD Vance this morning. Everything we discussed remains confidential.'

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: 'The Foreign Secretary has written to the Environment Agency over an administrative oversight that meant the appropriate licences had not been acquired for fishing on a private lake as part of a diplomatic engagement at Chevening House last week.'

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: 'Everyone who goes fishing needs a licence to help improve our rivers, lakes and the sport anglers love. We understand the relevant licences have been purchased.'

While in the UK, Mr Vance has also met senior Tories Robert Jenrick and Chris Philp, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, and former The Apprentice candidate Thomas Skinner (pictured)

A spokesperson for the Countryside Alliance said: 'Angling is an amazing sport with multiple health benefits and we welcome as many people taking it up as possible.

'It's important to remember, however, why we are all required to have a rod licence with the proceeds raised being invested back into angling.

'You can get a fine of up to 2,500 if you fail to show a valid rod fishing licence when asked'.

A Labour source told The Sun: 'There's nothing fishy to see here.

'The Foreign Secretary isn't much of a fisherman but he landed a big diplomatic catch getting the Vice President to stay for the weekend at Chevening.

'As soon as he learned of the administrative error he got the relevant licences and notified the Environment Agency to avoid getting caught up.'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday warned Donald Trump that Putin was 'bluffing' about his desire to end the war, as it was revealed today that the US and Russia have discussed a potential 'West Bank style occupation of Ukraine'.

'I told the U.S. president and all our European colleagues that Putin is bluffing,' he said at a joint briefing in Berlin with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz after holding virtual calls with European leaders.

'He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine.'

He also said he hopes talks between the US and Russia this week will centre on ceasefire and stressed that his position on surrendering the eastern Donbas region had not changed.

'Any questions concerning our country's territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution', he said.

Zelensky's remarks come as a source close to the US said today that Russia and the US are considering a West Bank-style occupation of Ukraine to secure a truce, The Times reports.

The superpowers are understood to have discussed using Israel's occupation of the West Bank as a model for ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

This would mean that Russia would have military and economic control of the occupied territories in Ukraine.

'Itll just be like Israel occupies the West Bank,' the source close to the US national security council said. 'With a governor, with an economic situation that goes into Russia, not Ukraine.'

'But itll still be Ukraine, because ... Ukraine will never give up its sovereignty. But the reality is itll be occupied territory and the model is Palestine.'

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer today said that there is a 'viable' chance of reaching a ceasefire in Ukraine because of Trump's work.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday warned Donald Trump that Putin was 'bluffing' about his desire to end the war. Pictured: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (R) and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attend a virtual meeting between European leaders

A view of the area hit by a Russian missile strike in Kyiv, Ukraine on August 01, 2025

Fire breaks out after a Russian attack at the 3 private house and one apartment building as the emergency officials work at the area in Kherson, Ukraine on August 2, 2025

Starmer also said Britain stands ready to 'increase pressure on Russia' in today's calls.

The meeting with European leaders on Wednesday came just two days before Trump and Putin are set to meet in Alaska for crunch talks on the fate of war-weary Ukraine.

In a day of intense diplomacy, Zelensky flew into Berlin for German-hosted virtual meetings with European leaders and Trump.

Since announcing the Alaska summit, Trump has played down expectations for the talks, saying it would be a 'feel-out' meeting as he seeks to end Moscow's war on Ukraine.

In a first video conference on Wednesday, Zelensky and his host, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, met the leaders of Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss their pitch to Trump and try and shape the outcome of Friday's summit.

Trump and Vice President JD Vance later joined the conversation, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The Europeans are worried that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine and embolden Putin to expand further west in the future.

According to German Chancellor Merz, the European side set out five principles to the US president ahead of his talk with Putin on Friday.

The principles were that Ukraine must be at the table for any future meetings with Putin, that a ceasefire must be the first step ahead of any negotiations and that recognising Russian-occupied territory is not on the table.

In addition, Ukrainian forces must be free to defend their country's sovereignty and wider negotiations must be part of a 'transatlantic strategy'.

The summit between Trump and Putin on Friday will be held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, a White House official said Wednesday.

This is the first time the leaders will be meeting in a standalone summit since 2018.

Ahead of the crunch talks on Friday, Putin's forces launched a major offensive in Ukraine that has forced women and children to flee parts of Ukraine's Donetsk region.

Critics say the offensive is a last-minute push by Vladimir Putin to grab territory before his high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump this week, where it is feared he will demand Ukrainian territory.

Women and children are being forced to flee parts of Ukraine's Donetsk region after Russian forces made rapid gains in recent days

The fresh order expands on an earlier evacuation drive launched on 8 August

Ukrainian troops fire a self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops at an undisclosed location in the Donetsk frontline, part of the Pokrovsk defence line, on August 6

On Wednesday, Donetsk governor Vadym Filashkin announced a mandatory evacuation from the mining town of Bilozerske and around a dozen nearby settlements now considered under immediate threat.

'We are beginning the mandatory evacuation of families with children from the town of Bilozerske,' Filashkin said, revealing that some 1,150 children remain in the evacuation zone.

The fresh order expands on an earlier evacuation drive launched on 8 August, which covered 19 communities in the Lyman hromada, where officials said 109 children were still living under the constant threat of shelling.

The urgency of the evacuation was underscored by a Russian strike on Bilozerske on Monday evening, which killed two civilians and wounded seven.

Despite repeated pleas from local officials, several civilians remain in active combat zones across numerous settlements in Donetsk.

The governor instructed local authorities to evacuate the residents and ensure they are given accommodations with proper living conditions.

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Meanwhile, a new video has shown the moment the Ukrainian air forces wiped out a Russian platoon advancing on the frontline.

The clip shows a Russian armoured personnel carrier making its way towards the Pokrovsk front in eastern Ukraine.

In a targeted drone attack, Ukrainian soldiers manage to destroy the personnel carrier. Putin's men attempting to escape are then shot down.

European and Ukrainian leaders held a video call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday in a bid to persuade him not to sell out Ukraine and give in to Putin's demands to secure a ceasefire.

A meeting with European leaders comes just two days before Trump and Putin meet in Alaska for crunch talks on the fate of war-weary Ukraine and hope to convince him to respect Kyiv's interests in his looming summit with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin on Wednesday ahead of the talks and will meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz before a video conference with the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union this afternoon, the hosts said.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will also attend. The Trump-Putin summit is the latest in many diplomatic means to end the war, which the US president promised he would be able to do in '24 hours' while campaigning.

Zelensky, who has spoken with more than 30 international leaders in the last few days, said 'pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a fair peace'.

On Wednesday, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky joined German chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin for a virtual meeting with Trump and other European leaders

Authorities help evacuation efforts in Dobropillia on Sunday as Putin's forces make a key breakthrough

Ukrainian forces fire a BM-21 Grad multiple-launch rocket system toward Russian troops near the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, Ukraine April 9, 2025

President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House August 11

Putin, shunned by much of the West since ordering the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, will meet Trump on Friday in what the U.S. president has described as a 'feel-out' discussion aimed at ending the war.

The uncertainty over what the Alaska talks could produce has raised fears in European capitals that Trump and Putin might take major decisions without Kyiv's involvement.

There are also concerns that an agreement may force Ukraine into accepting a settlement on disadvantageous terms.

EU leaders stressed on Tuesday 'the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny' and that 'international borders must not be changed by force'.

It comes as Russia branded European diplomatic consultations with Ukraine as 'insignificant' on Wednesday ahead of the planned summit between Putin and Trump.

'We consider the consultations sought by the Europeans to be politically and practically insignificant,' Russian foreign ministry deputy spokesman Alexey Fadeev said in a briefing.

'The Europeans verbally support the diplomatic efforts of Washington and Moscow to resolve the crisis around Ukraine, but in fact the European Union is sabotaging them,' he said.

He added that the EU rhetoric 'about supposed support for finding peaceful solutions is just another attempt to stall the settlement process'.

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Ukrainian service men help volunteers to evacuate a resident from the frontlines in Dobropillia

A strike in Dobropillia, Dontesk Oblast, Ukraine, destroys buildings last last month

'We will monitor the actions of European countries in connection with the upcoming summit and hope that no steps will be taken that would prevent it from taking place and reaching constructive agreements,' he said.

The summit on Friday is so far planned to go ahead without Zelensky, fuelling fears Kyiv could be forced into painful concessions, notably over land.

Zelensky has called for a full ceasefire - a proposal which Russia has rejected.

It comes a day after Russia made a key battlefield breakthrough in Ukraine as Putin races to secure as much land as possible before he meets Trump.

Moscow has reportedly already seized more than 10 kilometres (six miles) of land in its lightning offensive.

With Russia applying pressure on the frontlines, Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban declared yesterday that Russia has already emerged victorious in the war.

Speaking about the possibility of a deal that could put Ukraine at a disadvantage, a senior official from Eastern Europe said: 'We are focusing now to ensure that it does not happen - engaging with U.S. partners and staying coordinated and united on the European side.

Trump's team on Tuesday sought to lower expectations of a breakthrough, calling the meeting with Putin in Alaska a 'listening exercise.'

Although women and people who are vulnerable have been told to leave the region, some still remain

Drone nets installed over a road near Dobropillia in an attempt to defend against Russian attacks

According to a German government spokesperson, the video conference will take place at 1200 GMT (1400 CET) and will bring together Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union, as well as NATO's secretary general.

Kyiv hopes the discussions will help form a European counterbalance to whatever comes out of the Alaska summit.

European governments have publicly welcomed Trump's push for peace while stressing that any agreement about Ukraine must include Ukraine at the table.

Several senior European officials have warned that they see a real possibility of a settlement that would undermine both European and Ukrainian security.

A source familiar with internal U.S. debates said it was possible Trump could seek to strike a deal directly with Putin without input from Europe or Ukraine.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday that the Alaska summit will be a 'listening exercise' for Trump to learn what would be needed to reach an agreement.

The meeting comes ahead of Orban's declaration of victory, calling the war in favour of Russia.

Orban, who has led Hungary since 2010, has faced criticism from other European leaders over his government's warm relationship with Moscow and his opposition to supplying weapons to Kyiv.

Putin and Trump's meeting on Friday has left European leaders concerned that a deal might be reached that could put Ukraine at a disadvantage

A serviceman of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces checks the sky to look out for Russian combat drones, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

On Monday, he stood apart as the only European Union leader who declined to back a joint statement affirming Ukraine's right to determine its own future.

In an interview with the Patriot YouTube channel, he said: 'We are talking now as if this were an open-ended war situation, but it is not. The Ukrainians have lost the war. Russia has won this war.

'The only question is when and under what circumstances will the West, who are behind the Ukrainians, admit that this has happened and what will result from all this.'

Hungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy supplies, has refused to provide arms to Ukraine. Orban has also pushed back against Kyiv's bid to join the EU, warning it would damage Hungary's agricultural sector and broader economy.

In the interview, he also said that Europe had missed an opening to reach an agreement with Putin when former US president Joe Biden was in charge. He said: 'If you are not at the negotiating table, you are on the menu.'

His comments come as the Ukrainian military estimated that some 110,000 Russian troops were advancing in the direction of Pokrovsk in what may prove to be a major breakthrough for Vladimir Putin. Urgent evacuations are now underway in the region.

'Our units are waging heavy defensive battles against superior enemy forces,' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Telegram, adding: 'The situation is difficult and dynamic, but the Defence Forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy enemy groups.'

Kyiv has diverted special forces units to hold off the Russian advance on the ground in an effort to avoid Putin's forces from gaining ground.

Servicemen of 152nd Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fire a 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops in a front line, near the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region, Ukraine August 5, 2025

In an interview with the Patriot YouTube channel, he said: 'We are talking now as if this were an open-ended war situation, but it is not. The Ukrainians have lost the war

Ukrainian service members of the 25th Sicheslav Airborne Brigade fire a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launch system towards Russian troops near the frontline town of Pokrovsk, in Donetsk region, Ukraine April 19, 2025

The Ukrainian army said it was engaged in 'heavy' battles with Russian forces attempting to penetrate its defences. 'The situation is difficult and dynamic,' it said in a statement.

A map published by Ukrainian battlefield monitor DeepState, which has close ties with Ukraine's military, showed Russia had advanced around 10 kilometres (six miles) over around two days, deep into a narrow section of the eastern front line.

The corridor - now apparently under Russian control - threatens the town of Dobropillia, a mining hub that civilians are fleeing and that has come under Russian drone attacks.

It also further isolates the destroyed town of Kostiantynivka, one of the last large urban areas in the Donetsk region still held by Ukraine.

The Ukrainian military reported that defenders were holding off advancing troops moving on Dobropol and Pokrovsk.

'Our units are waging heavy defensive battles against superior enemy forces. Thus, in the Pokrovsk direction alone, the invaders have concentrated groups numbering over 110 thousand personnel,' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Telegram.

'Some of the groups have already been destroyed, the rest are in the process of being destroyed,' the statement added.

An AFP analysis indicated that Putin's army took or claimed 42.5 square miles of land on August 12, which was the most they had taken since May 2024. They had previously used five or six days to advance at such a pace.

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky warned ahead of the talks that Moscow was laying the groundwork for further attacks

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war

Kyiv has diverted special forces units to hold off the Russian advance on the ground in an effort to avoid Putin's forces from gaining ground

'The situation is difficult and dynamic, but the Defense Forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy enemy groups [...] Additional forces and means have been allocated to strengthen the stability of the defense.

'Measures have been planned to block enemy groups in a certain area.'

'The situation is quite chaotic, as the enemy, having found gaps in the defence, is infiltrating deeper, trying to quickly consolidate and accumulate forces for further advancement,' DeepState said on its Telegram channel.

The Institute for the Study of War, a US-based observatory, said Russia was sending small sabotage groups forward.

It said it was 'premature' to call the Russian advances in around Dobropillia 'an operational-level breakthrough'.

The military's Operational-Tactical Group Donetsk, which oversees parts of the front in the industrial region, also said Russia was probing Ukrainian lines with small sabotage groups, describing battles as 'complex, unpleasant and dynamic'.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky warned ahead of the talks that Moscow was laying the groundwork for further attacks, after Trump said on Monday that both sides would have to swap territory for peace.

'We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations,' Zelensky said in a statement on social media.

Ukraine reported in late June that Russia had amassed 110,000 troops near Pokrovsk as part of its efforts to take over the strategic city in eastern Ukraine.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, has made costly but incremental gains across the sprawling front in recent months and claims to have annexed four Ukrainian regions while still fighting to control them.

Ukrainian police, meanwhile, said that Russian attacks in the past hours had killed three people and wounded 12 others, including a child.

Ukraine's military said it had sent in reserves near the cities of Pokrovsk and Dobropillia to block advances by small groups of Russian troops.

In a statement, the General Staff said some of the groups attempting to bypass Ukraine's defensive lines in the area had already been destroyed, and that others were being engaged by Ukrainian forces.

Dobropillia is 94 kilometres (58 miles) northwest of Russian-occupied Donetsk, and around 22 kilometers (14 miles) north of Pokrovsk.

Earlier today, the Kyiv Independent reported that the Russian military is employing infiltration tactics, by sending small groups of soldiers beyond the first line of defense, often incurring significant losses.

Emergency service teams working to pull out people trapped under the rubble after a Russian attack earlier this year

Residential buildings have been targeted since Putin started the war in Ukraine

'A number of small Russian groups are constantly putting pressure on Ukrainian positions and attempting to bypass the first line of defense,' said Victor Tregubov, spokesperson of the Dnipro group of forces.

'It is important to understand that this does not mean Russian forces have taken control of the territory,' the spokesperson added.

Trump has said that both Kyiv and Moscow will have to cede territory to end the war in Ukraine, so how much territory does Russia control in Ukraine?

Russia controls nearly 114,500 square km (44,600 square miles), or 19%, of Ukraine, including Crimea, and a major chunk of territory in the east and south-east of the country, according to open-source maps of the battlefield.

Ukraine does not control any internationally recognised Russian territory.

Russia says Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - which were recognised by Moscow as part of Ukraine as the Soviet Union collapsed - are now parts of Russia.

Ukraine has repeatedly said it will never recognise the Russian occupation of its land, and most countries recognise Ukraine's territory within its 1991 borders.

The following are details on the territory, Russian claims and Ukraine's position.

Trump has said that both Kyiv and Moscow will have to cede territory to end the war in Ukraine

Last month, 16 people were killed and 35 more were injured after a Russian strike on a correctional facility

Russian forces in 2014 took control of Crimea, which juts out into the Black Sea off southern Ukraine, and after a disputed referendum on joining Russia, Moscow absorbed the region into Russia. Its area is about 27,000 square km.

Russia says Crimea is legally part of Russia. Ukraine's position is that Crimea is part of Ukraine, though privately some Ukrainian officials admit that it would be very hard to return Crimea to Ukrainian control by force.

Crimea was absorbed into the Russian empire by Catherine the Great in the 18th century. Russia's Black Sea naval base at Sevastopol was founded soon afterwards.

In 1921, Crimea became part of Russia within the Soviet Union until 1954, when it was handed to Ukraine, also then a Soviet republic, by Communist Party chief Nikita Khrushchev, an ethnic Ukrainian.

Russia controls about 46,570 square km, or 88%, of the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, including all of the Luhansk region and 75% of the Donetsk region.

About 6,600 square km is still controlled by Ukraine but Russia has been focusing most of its energy along the front in Donetsk, pushing towards the last remaining major cities.

Russian-backed separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions broke away from Ukrainian government control in 2014 and proclaimed themselves independent 'people's republics'.

In 2022, Putin recognised them as independent states just days before the invasion of Ukraine.

The Russian president has laid out a list of demands in order to stop his offensive on Ukraine

Residents react after a deadly strike on apartment buildings in Ukraine

Russian forces control about 74% of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of southeastern Ukraine, or about 41,176 square km. Ukraine controls about 14,500 square km across the two regions.

In 2024 said that he would be willing to agree to peace if Ukraine withdrew from all regions claimed but not fully controlled by Russia - an area currently of about 21,000 square km - and officially renounced its ambitions to join NATO.

Reuters reported in 2024 that Putin was open to discussing a Ukraine ceasefire deal with Trump, but ruled out making any major territorial concessions and insisted that Kyiv abandon ambitions to join NATO.

Two sources said Putin might be willing to withdraw from the relatively small patches of territory it holds in other areas of Ukraine.

Putin's conditions for peace include a legally binding pledge that NATO will not expand eastwards, Ukrainian neutrality and limits on its armed forces, protection for Russian speakers who live there, and acceptance of Russia's territorial gains, sources told Reuters earlier this year.

Russia also controls small parts of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions of Ukraine.

Across the Sumy and Kharkiv regions, Russia controls about 400 square km of territory. In Dnipropetrovsk, Russia has a tiny area near the border.

Russia has said it is carving out a buffer zone in Sumy to protect its Kursk region from Ukrainian attack.

Ukrainian service men attend a training mission on August 8 amid Putin's ramped up attacks

Firefighters attempt to extinguish a blaze in Kostiantynivka following a Russian multiple rocket launcher strike on August 10

Since Trump's inauguration, he has made ending the war in Ukraine one of his main priorities on the foreign front.

On February 12, he announced that he would start 'immediate' talks with Putin.

However, to the ire of many European leaders, he said that Ukraine's ambition to join NATO was 'unrealistic'. On February 28, Trump and Zelensky had a heated exchange at the White House.

It resulted in the US threatening to quit the peace process if Ukraine does not agree to a deal with Russia. Later, Trump showed more agitation towards Zelensky when he accused him of compromising talks by refusing to acknowledge Russian sovereignty over Crimea.

In early July, the US announced it was to suspend arms deliveries to Ukraine, citing concerns over its own ammunition stocks. Less than a week later, he blasted Putin's stance on the war and vowed to send defensive weapons to Ukraine.

Later that month, Trump gave Putin an ultimatum to end the war or face tougher sanctions. On the day the ultimatum was due to expire, Trump announced that he was to meet Putin in person for talks.
A woman was killed and terrified children left scrambling for cover after a gunman opened fire near a school bus stop in Louisville, Kentucky.

The violence erupted at around 8am on Wednesday and saw a nearby elementary school placed on lockdown.

The Louisville Police Department told Daily Mail that the woman who was shot was walking a child to the bus stop when she was hit.

She taken to University Hospital, where she died from her injuries. She has not been named.

A 15-year-old was arrested soon after the shooting in connection with the incident, but cops later said that they were released and are no longer considered a suspect.

The department said in a statement: 'It is unacceptable that people simply trying to go to school must fear for their safety because of a teenager who clearly has no regard for others, especially innocent children.'

The shooting occurred close to a bus stop, located near to the Coleridge-Taylor Montessori Elementary School and Central High School.

The elementary was briefly placed on lockdown following the shooting, but it has since been reopened.

A woman was hospitalized in a horror episode after shots were fired at a school bus stop in Louisville, Kentucky

No arrests have been made and the Louisville Metro Police Department said there are 'no outstanding suspects at this time'

Early reports indicated that up to three shooters may have been involved, but the Louisville Police Department told Daily Mail that was not accurate.

The department said it is working with local authorities to help 'students and families who are trying to process and cope with the impact of this violence.'

The incident comes just days after another shooting occurred near the same location on West Chestnut Street on August 7.

In that shooting, a 15-year-old boy was accused of opening fire on a school bus stop as students prepared for the first day back at school.

He did not injure anyone, but was charged with 33 counts of first-degree wanton endangerment and one count of possession of a handgun by a minor.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has said he had a 'curved machete' pulled on him and was 'pelted with bottles' whilst on a visit to Dunkirk's new 'Jungle camp'.

The Conservative MP began a trip to investigate illegal migration last night, travelling to northern France to visit a migrant camp near Dunkirk.

In updates posted to X, Philp said: 'Exiting the jungle 2 near Dunkirk where we had a machete pulled on us. Then got pelted with glass bottles.'

The MP for Croydon South spoke to police, locals and aid workers, noting a lack of French police on the beaches where illegal migrant boat launches are common.

The MP posted this morning: '5am and I'm walking along the beach which has seen many illegal migrant boat launches - including yesterday.

'I can't see any French police here either - why aren't they patrolling this launching point? It's negligent.'

Philps' encounter comes as Home Offices figures yesterday showed that over 50,000 migrants had arrived in the UK alone since Prime Minister Keir Starmer's landslide victory.

Speaking to GB News shortly after the incident, Philps said: 'I was talking to migrants there literally about ten or 15 minutes ago.

Shadow home secretary Chris Philp began a trip to investigate illegal migration last night, travelling to northern France to visit a migrant camp near Dunkirk

Home Offices figures yesterday showed that over 50,000 migrants had arrived in the UK alone since Prime Minister Keir Starmer's landslide victory

Chris posted video updates to X of his visit, recorded on the beaches in France

'First of all, as I was talking to some migrants, another one pulled out a curved machete and started brandishing it, at which point we left pretty quickly.

'And then as we were leaving, we got pelted with glass bottles.

'And as we drove off other bottles got thrown at the car.'

The so-called 'Dunkirk 'Jungle' camp' or 'Jungle 2' is a French refugee camp that is thought to have replaced, by size, the 'Jungle' camp in Calais which was notorious before it was closed in 2016.

This morning, a record 107 migrants - the largest number of people aboard one inflatable - reached Britain in just one dinghy.

Images from the port of Dover this morning showed human traffickers have begun to deploy a new, longer type of inflatable.

The dinghy - which can barely be described as a 'small boat' - was recovered in the Channel and taken to Dover, where it was being examined by Border Force and law enforcement, GB News reported.

In videos posted to his social media, the Tory MP came across small boats in the channel

Chris reported being 'pelted with bottles' and having a 'machete pulled' on him while speaking to migrants at one camp

Chris also spoke to local police, fishermen, and migrants themselves

In one clip posted to X, Chris spoke to local fisherman on the quayside near Gravelines beach, who claimed to have seen many illegal migrant embarkations

The so-called 'Dunkirk 'Jungle' camp' or 'Jungle 2' is a French refugee camp that is thought to have replaced, by size, the 'Jungle' camp in Calais which was notorious before it was closed in 2016

The MP for Croydon South spoke to police, locals and aid workers, noting a lack of French police on the beaches where illegal migrant boat launches are common

Philp said in one X update: 'Exiting the jungle 2 near Dunkirk where we had a machete pulled on us. Then got pelted with glass bottles'

The appearance of the larger type of dinghy further undermines Labours decision to concentrate on law enforcement responses to smash the gangs.

Keir Starmer scrapped the previous Conservative governments Rwanda asylum scheme as one of his first acts in office, just as it was finally ready to get off the ground.

The Rwanda scheme was designed to make crossing the Channel pointless, because migrants would be sent to Rwanda to claim asylum there instead of here.

On Monday alone there were 474 Channel arrivals, pushing the total past 50,000 since Labour came to power.
The Idaho prosecutor who led the case against Bryan Kohberger has admitted that two key questions about the stabbing murders of four students will probably never be answered.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson spoke to Idaho News 6 as the 30-year-old criminology student turned mass killer begins his new life behind bars inside Idaho's maximum-security prison.

Despite Kohberger finally confessing to his crimes, Thompson said he believes the killer's motive will never truly come to light.

He also believes the murder weapon used to slaughter the victims - believed to be a KaBar knife bought from Amazon months before the attack - will never be found.

'I dont think well ever know,' he said of the location of the knife.

'I know there's questions. That's human nature for all of us to think, "okay, explain why that happened". I understand that.'

But FBI profilers have long said that, due to the nature of the crime, these things will likely remain a mystery, Thompson said.

'I can tell you from the very beginning the FBI brought out members of the behavioral analysis unit, their profilers, to try to help us develop some insights,' he said.

Bryan Kohberger seen in a new mugshot after he was sentenced to life in prison for murder

Best friends Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen (left) and young couple Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle (right) were murdered by Bryan Kohberger

'And they told us early on that, just looking at the nature of the crimes and the fact that there is no direct connection anybody could find between the murderer and the victims, they said in our experience you likely will never know why this happened.

'And even if the murderer would try to say something, it wouldn't make sense to anybody but the murderer and that's the reality.'

In the early hours of November 13, 2022, Kohberger broke into an off-campus home in the college town of Moscow, Idaho, and stabbed the four victims - 21-year-old best friends Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, and couple Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, both 20 - to death.

He was arrested around six weeks later at his parents' home in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania, after his DNA was found on a knife sheath left behind at the scene.

Surveillance footage on nearby homes and businesses also captured his white Hyundai Elantra circling the home multiple times in the hour before the murders before speeding away from the scene.

After spending more than two years fighting the charges, Kohberger finally confessed to his crimes and pleaded guilty in Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, on July 2 in exchange for the death penalty being taken off the table.

During an emotional sentencing hearing on July 23, Judge Steven Hippler handed Kohberger four life sentences with no possibility of parole for each count of first-degree murder and an additional 10 years for burglary.

Under the terms of the deal, Kohberger waived his right to ever appeal and will never have the opportunity to walk free from prison.

At the sentencing, Kohberger turned down the opportunity to address the court, leaving the victims' families in the dark about the murders.

Kohberger has not revealed his motive for the murders or why he chose his victims.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson believes some questions will never be answered about the case

To this day, prosecutors have found no connection between him and any of the victims or the two surviving roommates who lived through the attack.

The murder weapon has also never been found despite extensive searches.

In the hours after the murders, Kohberger took a drive by the Clearwater and Snake Rivers - vast bodies of water where it is possible he disposed of evidence.

While some of the victims' families support the plea deal, Thompson has faced criticism from some for both striking the deal and for not making it a requirement that Kohberger reveals details about his crimes.

The prosecutor told Idaho News 6 he stands by his decisions.

'In a case like this, we arent going to get answers from the defendant. Even if he said something, there would be no way to corroborate it or believe him,' he said.

However, he said he respects that the victims' families all have different views on his actions.

'We cannot imagine what it must be like to lose a child the way these families have lost a child, a sister, a brother, a friend. It's just unimaginable,' he said.

'So we support completely everyone has their own way of dealing with it.'

The murder weapon - a Ka-Bar knife - has also never been found despite extensive searches

Daily Mail forensically re-traced Kohberger's steps in the hours after the murders. He drove by the Clearwater and Snake Rivers - vast bodies of water where it is possible he disposed of evidence

Thompson said he engaged very little with the mass killer inside the courtroom.

He described how Kohberger maintained a chilling, vacant demeanor even when confronted with the brutality of his crimes and the devastating grief of the families he tore apart.

'Anybody who sees me in court knows I tend to engage with defendants in sentencing,' Thompson said.

'But there was a vacancy, a distance that I saw in this defendant or that I sensed.

'So I think I looked at him once at the sentencing itself and that's when I pointed to him and talked about he's going to go through that door to the department of corrections and that door is going to close forever and he's not coming out until he's dead.'

Thompson added: 'That's all that I had to direct at him.'

After his sentencing, Kohberger was sent to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna to begin his new life behind bars.

According to a law enforcement source, he hasn't settled in smoothly.

An insider has revealed that the mass killer is being taunted and tormented around the clock by his fellow inmates in the prison (pictured Idaho Maximum Security Institution's C Block)

The Daily Mail has learned he is being relentlessly tormented by his new jail-mates, who are shouting through the vents into his cell at all hours of the day.

It is rattling the criminology student turned quadruple killer so much that he has made complaints to prison guards about the inmates keeping him awake at night.

Its driving him crazy. The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day - taunting him through the vents in his cell, Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective who now works for the Cold Case Foundation, told the Daily Mail.

They are literally getting up into the grate and yelling at him. The inmates are taking it in turns doing it. Its relentless.

He added of Kohberger: Hes extremely annoyed and frustrated. Hes complaining to the authorities that he can't sleep because of them.'

For now, Kohberger is being held in solitary confinement on J block's restrictive housing unit. The Department of Corrections could move him to general population in future if they deem it safe to do so.
A Brazilian pastor is facing backlash after he was filmed wearing women's lingerie and a wig in public.

The video, which went viral on Monday, showed Eduardo Costa donning blue underwear and a blonde hairpiece as he strolled around a parking lot next to a bar in the central city of Goiania, about 800 miles north west of Rio de Janeiro.

The evangelical pastor took to social media later in the day to claim that he had chosen the attire as part of an 'investigation'.

Costa said that the owner of the video attempted to extort him and pay up by noon, local time, on Monday.

Costa refused and the footage was uploaded on Goiania Mil Graus, a social media site in Brazil.

'I mistakenly ended up putting on a wig and shorts to try to find an address,' the pastor said as his wife stood in the background.

'I was doing serious work, an investigation of personal interest,' Costa added.

It's unknown when the video was recorded or what Costa was investigating.

Brazilian evangelical pastor Eduardo Costa confessed to wearing women's lingerie and a wig in public because he was conducting a personal investigation after viral footage was leaked Monday

The religious leader said he decided to wear the wig and women's underwear because he wanted to disguise his identity as part of a personal investigation

'Someone filmed me, tried to expose me, and then demanded money to keep the video from being published,' Costa added.

'This is extortion, and I will not remain silent in the face of it.'

Surveillance camera footage leaked Tuesday also showed Costa dressed in lingerie the evening of August 6.

The religious leader could be seen wearing a G-string as he posed in front of his car and then stepped inside to drive away.

Costa has yet to provide a statement regarding the latest video.

Surveillance video clip was leaked Tuesday evening and showed the pastor in a G-string outside his vehicle the evening of August 6

The religious leader said he was notified about the video, which showed him wearing women's underwear and a blonde wig, and that the person who owned the footage asked him for money by noon Monday to prevent its release

According to local media, the person who recorded Costa alleged that he 'uses God to make money' and that he frequented bars around town.

One person, who claimed to have been employed by the pastor, alleged that it was not the first time he had been caught wearing women's clothing.

'His wife, who is now his ex, caught him in a little red dress near the motels,' they said.

'It was a huge mess. I saw the whole thing.'
Russia and its ally Belarus are set to stage nuclear missile drills close to Europe next month, with an estimated 150,000 troops expected to take part.

Belarus said Wednesday it will practice deployment of Russia's nuclear-capable Oreshnik missiles during the joint Zapad-2025 ('West-2025') drills close to the EU and NATO's eastern flank border.

The former Soviet republic is a key Russian ally and depends on the large eastern neighbour economically and militarily.

It also allowed its territory to be used as a staging post for Moscow's 2022 offensive in Ukraine.

Kyiv, as well as Poland and the Baltic states, have repeatedly sounded alarm over military build-ups in Belarus, where Russia said it would deploy Oreshnik by the end of the year.

'Of course, we will work out the plan for using this type of weaponry together with our Russian colleagues,' Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin said when asked if the Zapad drills would include the use of Oreshnik.

While the minister confirmed that over 13,000 participants will take part, NATO says the drills could involve as many as 150,000 troops.

In late 2024, Russia used the Ukrainian city of Dnipro as a testing ground for its 'experimental' Oreshnik missile without a nuclear warhead.

'We see the situation on our western and northern borders and can't just sit and watch the militarisation and military activity there,' Khrenin was quoted as saying by Belta news agency.

Russia and its ally Belraus are set to stage nuclear missile drills close to Europe next month

In this photo taken from video distributed by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, a Russian soldier fires a self-propelled gun 'Malka' toward Ukrainian positions in an undisclosed location in UkrainE

The former Soviet republic is a key Russian ally and depends on the large eastern neighbour economically and militarily. Pictured: Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko visit the Smolensky Skete of the Savior Transfiguration Monastery on Valaam Island in Lake Ladoga, Republic of Karelia, Russia, 01 August 2025

Russian state media earlier reported around 13,000 soldiers were originally set to take part in the drills, but the final number of participants was not revealed yet.

Meanwhile, two Russian units have reportedly already arrived in Belarus for the war games, while some Belarusian troops are understood to have already moved to Russia for the drills.

The Zapad-2025 military drills, due on September 12-16, usually involve tens of thousands of troops in a show of force close to Belarus's western border with EU and NATO members.

Around 200,000 troops participated in the 2021 edition of Zapad, staged just months before Moscow's assault of Ukraine.

Belarus, Russia's closest ally, has seen its relations with western neighbours and Ukraine deteriorate over the last few years.

It comes after Ukrainian and European leaders pursued last-ditch efforts on Wednesday to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump not to strike a Ukraine peace deal with Russia's Vladimir Putin, which they fear could sell out Kyiv's interests.

Trump and Putin are due to meet in Alaska on Friday for talks on how to end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict, the biggest in Europe since World War Two. Trump has said both sides will have to swap territory to end the fighting, which has cost tens of thousands of lives.

In a day of intense diplomacy, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky flew into Berlin for German-hosted virtual meetings with European leaders and Trump.

Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on economic issues at the Kremlin, in Moscow, Russia, 12 August 2025

Ukrainian troops fire a self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops at an undisclosed location in the Donetsk frontline, part of the Pokrovsk defence line, on August 6

Ukrainian forces fire a BM-21 Grad multiple-launch rocket system toward Russian troops near the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, Ukraine April 9, 2025

President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House August 11

Putin and Trump's meeting on Friday has left European leaders concerned that a deal might be reached that could put Ukraine at a disadvantage

The Europeans are worried that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine and embolden Putin to expand further west in the future.

Since announcing the Alaska summit, Trump has played down expectations for the talks, saying it would be a 'feel-out' meeting as he seeks to end Moscow's war on Ukraine.

In a first video conference on Wednesday, Zelenskiy and his host, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, met the leaders of Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss their pitch to Trump and try and shape the outcome of Friday's summit.

Trump and Vice President JD Vance later joined the conversation, according to a source familiar with the situation.

'Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while.

'They are great people who want to see a deal done,' Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The family of a Texas woman who died saving a teenager being swept away in catastrophic flash flooding has filed what is thought to be the first lawsuit over the disaster that claimed 118 lives.

Probation officer Jayda Floyd, 22, from Odessa, was staying at the luxury HTR TX Hill Country Resort in Kerrville with her police officer fiance Bailey Martin, 23, and his family when the Guadalupe River burst its banks in the early hours of July 4.

According to her familys $1 million lawsuit, the RV park failed to warn guests or evacuate them as floodwaters surged more than 20 feet in two hours, according to a lawsuit obtained by KSAT.

The historic flooding swallowed entire families and left 26 campers missing at that same site- more than any other location.

Floyd managed to push her fiances teenage stepsiblings onto the roof of their RVsaving their lives.

However, she and Martin were washed away and died.

When warnings finally came, they were from other campers and not resort staff, the lawsuit states.

Survivors say they woke to the sound of a car horn, then scrambled to escape as the water rose from ankle-deep to waist-deep in minutes, the filing reads.

The estate of Jayda Floyd, 22, have filed what is believed to be the first lawsuit related to the July 4 flooding on the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas

Floyd was swept away and died alongside her police officer fiance, Bailey Martin, 23

Despite being aware of the risk of flooding, including catastrophic flooding, the defendants continued to do business just feet from the Guadalupe River, Floyd family lawyers allege.

Floyd worked with the Ector County Juvenile Probation Department as a probation officer.

She was working on her master's in psychology at the University of Texas-Permian Basin, with the hope of helping at-risk youth.

Her relatives are asking for $1 million from the different entities connected to the riverside recreational land.

The Davis Companies Inc., investors of the HTR TX Hill Country; HTR Kerrville, which owns the land of the resort; Blue Water Development, believed to be the company that operates the resort; and Ilana Callahan, the general manager of the campground are all named in the legal filing.

Our hearts go out to Ms. Floyds family, her fiance, and other loved ones  and to all of those who were impacted by the flooding that devastated the Kerrville community,' a spokesperson for HTR told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'As has been widely acknowledged by state and local authorities, meteorologists, and other experts, no one could have anticipated the unprecedented severity and rapid onset of the flooding that occurred and that exposed serious failures in public warning systems and emergency response protocols. While we have not yet been served with this complaint, we have reviewed a copy. We reject its fundamental thrust and will be prepared to vigorously defend ourselves in court.'

A telephone recording greets callers, letting them know that the camp is closed for future reservations.

More people went missing from the HTR RV park than form another other single location impacted by the flooding, reported the Kerr County Lead.

Floyd and her fiance died together, however, his family is not currentlu involved in the lawsuit

HTR TX Hill Country RV Park in Kerrville, Texas is currently closed, a telephone recording informs callers

Jayda Floyd worked for the Ector County Juvenile Probation department and was also seeking her master's degree in Odessa, Texas

Campers were overwhelmed when floodwaters surged more than 20 feet in less than two hours at HTR, local officials told the paper.

Most of guests at the park were out-of-towners, and were likely unfamiliar with the Guadalupe and its tendency to flood.

Many had traveled to Hill Country for the holiday weekend from other cities in the state like Dallas, League City, San Angelo and San Antonio to catch a fireworks extravaganza staged by the city of Kerrville over the river

Entire families went missing from the site.

In other cases, some people were able to make it out while those they were camping with were trapped or swept away.
Sir Sadiq Khan is looking at whether to provide Londoners with flexible working hours during heatwaves as parts of Britain are set to swelter with temperatures forecast to hit 34C.

A survey has been launched by the Mayor London's office for feedback from residents on proposals which could form part of the London Heat Risk Delivery Plan.

One of the questions is: 'Which of the following, if any, would you most like to see introduced to help reduce the impact of hot weather in London?'

And 'flexible working hours to avoid peak heat times' is one of the options presented as well as a relaxed dress code for businesses and schools, outdoor swimming spaces and designated water areas.

The questionnaire runs until the end of August before the heat plan is drafted and published next spring- but there are no guarantees any proposals in the survey will be included.

Sir Sadiq Khan is looking at whether to provide Londoners with flexible working hours during heatwaves as parts of Britain are set to swelter with temperatures forecast to hit 34C

A survey has been launched by the Mayor London for feedback on proposals which could form part of the London Heat Risk Delivery Plan

The questionare comes as Britain continues to swelter in its fourth heatwave of the year with five regions under an amber heat health alert

It is not clear how Sir Sadiq would be able to enforce the flexible working hours policy but if it was part of the plan, it would likely apply to all City Hall staff.

Public sector employers would then be encouraged to adopt the measures.

While staff would be allowed to adjust the start and end times of their working day, they would still need to work their required hours.

The survey comes as Britain continues to swelter in its fourth heatwave of the year with five regions under an amber heat health alert.

Weather warnings have also been issued due to thunderstorms and showers brought by the hot weather.

Despite the grey start across southern and western parts of the country today, temperatures are expected to climb to 34C in parts of England.

However, the heat is expected to give way to instability in Scotland, with a growing risk of thunderstorms and a chance of flooding and disruption

The Met Office issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for most of Scotland from 2pm until midnight, with the potential for up to 30mm of rain in less than an hour, and 50mm locally, as well as hail and gusty winds.

The highest temperature recorded overnight in 2025 so far was 22.2C in Heathrow on July 1.

'Flexible working hours to avoid peak heat times' is one of the options presented in the survey as well as a relaxed dress code for businesses and schools and outdoor swimming spaces

It is not clear how Sir Sadiq would be able to enforce the flexible working hours policy but if it was part of the plan, it would likely apply to all City Hall staff

An amber heat health alert remains in place for the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, London, and east of England until 6pm, after temperatures peaked at 33.4C on Tuesday

An amber heat health alert remains in place for the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, London, and east of England until 6pm, after temperatures peaked at 33.4C on Tuesday.

Much of the rest of England is already under yellow alerts.

Officials have said that England is suffering from 'nationally significant' water shortfalls, despite rain in July.

The national drought group, which includes the Met Office, regulators, government, water companies and other organisations, has met as five areas of the country remain in drought, with six more in prolonged dry weather status.

England is suffering widespread environmental and agricultural effects from the lack of water, which is hitting crop yields, reducing feed for livestock, damaging wetlands and river wildlife, and increasing wildfires, the group said.

On Thursday there will be residual showers and isolated thunderstorms across the South East, gradually clearing, and lightning, hail and heavy rain drifting northwards from Scotland into the Northern Isles.

Paul Gundersen, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'Some areas will continue to experience their fourth heatwave of the summer so far, with Thursday remaining warm or very warm for many, though cooler near coasts.

'Temperatures could still reach 30C in eastern England, though many areas will be a few degrees cooler than earlier in the week.'

Northern England will have patchy rain and cloud on Friday while southern England will enjoy sunshine and temperatures of up to 31C.

The weekend should be dry and sunny for most parts of the UK, climbing to 30C on Saturday and 29C on Sunday in south-west England.
A female board member for a ritzy Oregon school has resigned after a 17-year-old girl died during a boozy party at her stunning $1.8 million home.

Scappoose School District Board Chair Branda Jurasek has stepped down from her role after outraged parents called for her removal in the aftermath of the tragedy.

According to a probable cause affidavit, high school senior Ava Crews died on May 18 while riding an ATV driven by her friend Ayden Heard at Jurasek's compound.

Heard, 18, has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and other charges connected with the horrific crash in the wealthy enclave of Sauvie Island, just north of Portland.

Prosecutors said he admitted to drinking alcohol before getting behind the wheel, and that he made an abrupt turn which caused the car to flip over, killing Crews.

Parents from Scappoose High School were outraged that Jurasek, the woman tasked with overseeing their children's education, set a terrible example by allowing minors to drink heavily on the grounds of her luxury home.

Heard and Crews were at the party in a barn beside the board member's $1.8 million house, which is surrounded by greenery and sits close to the Gilbert River.

Parents penned an anonymous letter addressed to the School District Board of Education and Multnomah County District Attorney calling for Jurasek to resign - and for the attorney's office to investigate her.

Scappoose School District Board Chair Branda Jurasek (pictured) has resigned from her role after a 17-year-old girl died during a boozy party at her stunning $1.8 million home

A ritzy Oregon town has been rocked by the death of a beautiful 17-year-old girl after a boozy party at a local bigwig's $1.8 million home took a tragic turn. High school senior Ava Crews (pictured in her final school photograph) died on May 18 in Sauvie Island while riding an ATV

Heard has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and other charges connected with the horrific crash in the $1.8 home (pictured) close to the ritzy town of Scappoose, just north of Portland

After two months of pressure from the public, Jurasek submitted her resignation letter last week, saying that she and her husband had been 'devastated' by Crews' death.

In the letter dated August 7, she said she wished for 'hope for peace and healing for everyone affected by this tragedy'.

Jurasek denied providing alcohol to the minors, and said she was quitting her role because the scandal was interfering with the board's work.

'Some people have made serious accusations about our family in the days since Ava's death,' Jurasek wrote.

'We want our community to know that the claims are false. We did not provide alcohol to minors.

'We do not condone underage drinking, and we have never allowed it in our home.'

Ayden Heard (pictured), 18, has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and other charges

Crews (pictured) was 'kind and beautiful inside and out', her friends said as they posted heartbreaking tributes on social media. She is pictured in happy images from her Instagram

Heard's attorney, Mark Cogan, said the teen has been left distraught by the tragedy

Prosecutors have not charged Jurasek with providing alcohol to children, but the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office said in court documents that high schoolers frequently consumed alcohol on the property where the crash occurred.

Crews' mother, Brooke Crews, said that pressure from the public and media ultimately forced Jurasek to resign.

Writing on Facebook, she said it was 'this incredible community raising awareness on social media that pushed her to resign'. 'My gratitude is endless,' Crews added.

Her daughter was described by heartbroken friends as 'kind and beautiful inside and out' as they posted tributes online in the days after her death.

Ava Crews is pictured in her final school photograph, and in several images on her Instagram account showing a happy childhood as she posed with her friends at prom and enjoyed trips to the beach with her family.

Heard's attorney, Mark Cogan, said the teen has been left distraught by the tragedy

Crews (pictured) was 'kind and beautiful inside and out', her friends said as they posted heartbreaking tributes on social media. She is pictured in a happy image from her Instagram

Heard's attorney, Mark Cogan, said the teen has been left distraught by the tragedy.

'They were friends,' Cogan told Oregon Live of Crews and Heard.

'She was a very dear person to Ayden and his family, and they're very sorrowful about what happened to her.'
A migrant residing at the asylum seeker hotel at the centre of a series of recent protests has been charged with a litany of offences including sexual assault - weeks after another migrant was charged in connection with an unrelated, separate incident.

Mohammed Sharwarq, a Syrian national living at the Bell Hotel in Epping, faces seven charges linked to offences alleged to have been committed between July 25 and August 12.

The 32-year-old is facing two counts of common assault, four counts of assault by beating and a single count of sexual assault on a man, contrary to section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2002.

Essex Police said they arrested a 32-year-old man after being called to the Bell Hotel in Epping on August 12 before taking him in for questioning.

Sharwarq was then charged and was due to appear in court today.

Police are pictured outside the Bell Hotel on July 31 on an unrelated matter. The Epping hotel is being used to house migrants

Protests began outside the hotel a month ago (protesters on August 8 pictured)

The hotel has been put behind fencing to separate it from protesters (pictured: notices attached to a security fence)

A spokesperson for the force said: 'Mohammed Sharwarq, a Syrian national who resides at The Bell Hotel, Epping has been charged with the following offences: two counts of common assault; four counts of assault by beating; one count of sexual assault on a male contrary to section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

'The offences are alleged to have taken place between 25 July and 12 August.

'He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates Court today, Wednesday 13 August.

'Officers are not currently seeking any other suspects in relation with this case.'

The Bell Hotel has been at the epicentre of a series of anti-immigration protests held outside asylum seeker accommodation after a separate incident in which an Ethiopian migrant was charged with a series of unrelated sexual offences.

Hadush Kebatu, 38, has appeared in court to deny 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.

Kebatu is alleged to have put his hand on a 14-year-old schoolgirl's leg, asked her for a kiss and suggested they make 'Jamaican babies' in Epping over two days, Chelmsford Magistrates' Court was told.

He had arrived in the UK by small boat days prior to the alleged offences being committed, said to have happened between July 6 and 9.

Scenes of protesters waving St George's flags outside the Essex lodings have since spread to other accommodation across the country.
A crazed gunman tried to hijack a water truck minutes after gunning down a four-year-old girl and her grandpa outside a Target store

Ethan Blaine Nieneker, 32, was photographed by a passing motorist dramatically stealing the truck at a construction site in north Austin on Monday.

Leaning out of the cab, he balanced precariously on the step with one hand holding onto the door while the other clutched a handgun pointed at a worker.

Nieneker was wearing a Hawaiian shirt and fluorescent blue and yellow-patterned shorts in the photo as he tried to make a getaway on the Mopac Expressway.

Minutes earlier he allegedly shot dead Adam Chow, 65, and his granddaughter Astrid, 4, along with Target worker Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24.

Adam was shot first as he sat in the driver's seat, as Astrid watched.

Nieneker is then accused of turning his weapon towards Astrid, shooting the little girl at point blank range as she sat in the back seat of her grandpa's car.

The shooter did not know either of his victims, investigators say.

Ethan Blaine Nieneker, 32, was photographed dramatically stealing a water truck during his getaway from a mass shooting at a Target in Austin where three people were killed

Nieneker in his booking photo at the Travis County Jail, showing him staring straight at the camera with several fresh cuts on his face

Astrid, 4, with her grandfather Adam Chow, 65, whom she called 'GongGong'. They were shot dead within seconds of each other by a gunman outside a Target in Austin

After shoving Chow's wife Doris, 66, out of the family's grey Toyota 4-Runner, he took off away from the store before trying to switch cars to the water truck.

Stricken Doris pulled Astrid from the car in a bid to find help that could save her, but the youngster succumbed to her injuries shortly after.

He allegedly attacked the driver and tried pulling him out of the truck, but wasn't able to, instead chasing the truck driver away with his pistol before returning to the Toyota.

Chow's family said Astrid was deeply loved by her family, teachers, classmates, friends, and 'all who had the privilege of knowing her'.

'Sweet Astrid brought joy, laughter, and light to everyone she touched,' they said.

'Adam Chow, was a loving husband to Doris, beloved father to Monica and Sophia, and a doting grandfather. He dedicated his life to loving God and loving others.'

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis alleged at a press conference that Nieneker first 'randomly' shot Machuca about 2.15pm as he collected trolleys.

Austin homicide detective Nathan Sexton said Nieneker chose his victims 'completely randomly' and used a handgun given to him by a family member.

'He said that he was Jesus and there was no real reason whatsoever given,' he said.

Chow (left) was killed and his wife Doris, 66, (second from left) wounded during the Target shooting. Astrid is pictured as a baby

Astrid (pictured) died after being shot in the back of the family car

Target worker Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24, was the first victim as he was shot dead while collecting trolleys

After his aborted attempt to steal the truck, he crashed into a Volkswagen about 2.25pm, then allegedly attacked and carjacked the Volkswagen driver.

Nieneker only drove that car until 2.34pm when he tried to steal a self-driving Waymo car, but failed and got back in the Volkswagen.

Minutes later, a church acquaintance of Nieneker claimed a brick came flying through the window of his house on La Casa Drive after the gunman threw it.

Nieneker's alleged rampage continued until 2.58pm when he was spotted walking naked through a backyard down the street from the one he bricked.

He was seen running into a 'porta potty', then running away again before police found him, still nude and holding a Bible, and demanded he surrender.

When he refused, police fired their tasers and he was arrested at 3.06pm.

'The investigation shows that Nieneker conducted these violent offenses of shooting at multiple victims, killing three victims, and destroying multiple vehicles, in the span of less than one hour,' police said.

Chow was pronounced dead at the scene at 2.39pm and his granddaughter at 2.50pm. Doris only suffered minor injuries.

Chow's family said the slain grandfather (left) was a loving husband to Doris (second from left), beloved father to Monica and Sophia (center and second from right), and a doting grandpa

Police say Nieneker fled the scene in a stolen vehicle, which he then crashed

Nieneker allegedly fled from the Target to South Austin, where he was apprehended

Nieneker was charged with two counts of capital murder for Chow and his granddaughter first-degree felony murder of Machuca.

His booking photo at the Travis County Jail showed him staring straight at the camera with several fresh cuts on his face.

Sexton said Nieneker gave no motive for the shooting and his state of mind at the time was still being investigated.

'Were still looking into the drug portion of it. He could have been under the influence of narcotics, it might not necessarily be all attributed to mental illness, so were still investigating all of that,' he said.

Davis admitted there were failures by authorities to follow up on mental health callouts, which may have prevented the shooting.

'This man had some serious issues, and I think about the systems that failed... there were some serious failures here,' she said.

Nieneker had two emergency mental health detentions of up to 72 hours in 2018, but was not committed either time.

How Nieneker got the gun, which he left in Chow's car, from a relative is being investigated, and could lead to charges against his family.

'Where does someone with this capacity to do this get a weapon and when does a family members feel comfortable giving someone with these issues a weapon?' Davis said.

Pictured: A photograph of Nieneker from his Facebook page showing him wearing a face mask

Daily Mail has also unearthed photographs of Nieneker from social media, including the one above showing him grinning with a friend at social events

Nieneker lived alone and worked at a nearby restaurant, police said.

Davis said police received calls about the shooting 15 minutes after it began and rushed to the scene within four minutes.

Social media photos of Nieneker showed him grinning with friends at social events, posing while wearing a Covid-style mask by a trash bin, and posing beside a fireplace.

Another Facebook image showed the alleged gunman holding a large brown leaf in front of his face and creepily peering over it, and a fifth photo had Nieneker wearing an American flag as a bandana.

Davis told reporters on Monday evening that Nieneker has a history of mental illness and a prior criminal history on charges including drugs and assault.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt played cleanup for President Donald Trump on Tuesday after the president said twice that he was preparing to go to Russia to visit Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Leavitt clarified to the Daily Mail during the White House press briefing on Monday that the meeting would take place in Alaska, despite the president's comments.

'Perhaps there are plans in the future to travel to Russia and on Friday the president will be meeting with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, in Alaska, as you know,' she said.

Trump, however, specifically mentioned that Friday he was going to Russia during his press conference on Monday.

'You know, I'm going to see Putin. I'm going to Russia on Friday,' Trump said in what was widely assumed to be a verbal slip.

Then he did it again.

'We're going to Russia. That's going to be a big deal,' he said later in the press conference.

Trump's comments about Russia triggered his critics who called out the president for his rhetorical mishaps.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that President Trump's meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin would take place in Alaska

President Donald Trump at a press conference in the White House Press Briefing Room

Others speculated whether Trump was intentionally referring to Alaska as Russia as a nod to Russia. The state of Alaska was initially Russian territory before the United States purchased it in 1867 for $7.2 million.

But Leavitt's response indicates there's no current plan for Trump to go to Russia.

The high-stakes Trump-Putin summit is scheduled for Friday afternoon in Anchorage, Alaska.

The last time Putin met with an American president was in 2021 at a summit with then-President Joe Biden. Trump last met Putin in 2019 on the sidelines of the G20 in Osaka, Japan.

Russia invaded neighboring Ukraine in 2022 after meeting with Biden and Biden refused to meet with Putin after the war began.

Friday's summit will be the first time Putin has visited the United States since 2015, when the Russian leader met with then-President Barack Obama at the United Nations General Assembly Meeting in New York City on September 28, 2015.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is being celebrated by leaderless Democrats after adopting Donald Trump's unique social media style to mock the president.

Newsom announced on Tuesday that California would redraw its congressional districts after Trump ignored the governor's letter urging him to call off redistricting in red states.

'DONALD 'TACO' TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, 'MISSED' THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE 'BEAUTIFUL MAPS,' THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!),' wrote Newsom's press office on X.

The post is meant to mimic the unique cadence and colorful language Trump uses to write his messages on Truth Social in blaring all-caps font.

'BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR 'MAGA.' THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GN.'

Newsom wrote a letter to Trump on Monday demanding Trump order GOP-dominated states, including Texas, halt their efforts to redraw congressional districts.

The governor told Trump he's 'playing with fire' before promising 'California can neutralize any gains you hope to make.' Newsom's office gave Trump until Tuesday evening to respond to the letter.

The crude-Trumpian all-caps language of the tweet invoked celebration from Democrats who have been leaderless and searching for a fighter following their 2024 election drubbing.

Newsom vowed to redraw California's congressional map to offset Republican gains from redistricting in red states

Trump did not respond to Newsom's letter demanding the president tell Republican states to hold off redrawing their congressional maps

The tweet from Newsom's press office mimics Trump's style on Truth Social

'Love him or hate him, you've got to admit he's the fiercest fighter right now,' wrote X user @ML3democrats in a tweet that received over 57,000 likes. 'He terrifies Trump.'

'Gavin Newsom is so good at this,' Majid M. Padellan told his 1.3 million followers on X while attaching a screenshot of Newsom's tweet.

Popular Democratic activist Brian Krassenstein praised Newsom on X, stating, 'Holy CRAP. Gavin Newsom is good at this game!'

'HA: Gavin Newsom just announced, in a way MAGA will understand, that California is moving forward with redrawing their maps after Trump failed to meet the deadline to stand down,' Harry Sisson commented. 'Go for it, Newsom!'

Ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, Trump and Republican congressional leadership are urging several Republican-led states to redraw their districts to help create more opportunities for the GOP.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott responded earlier this week to Newsom's threats to neutralize any Republican gains.

Newsom is seen as one of the leading potential candidates for the Democratic presidential primary in 2028

The Texas leader vowed to remove up to 10 of the 12 Democratic seats in the Lone Star State.

Meanwhile, Democratic Texas lawmakers have fled to Illinois and New York to block a quorum over a vote for redistricting.

If California moves forward with mid-decade redistricting, Newsom has promised to eliminate up to five GOP-held seats.
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has pulled a documentary about the October 7 massacre because Hamas did not give organisers permission to use bodycam footage shot by the terrorists, according to Israeli media.

The festival was set to show 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue', directed by Barry Avrich, which follows the story of retired IDF general Noam Tibon during and after the attack that saw around 1,200 people killed and 251 taken hostage.

Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, has slammed the organisers, and likened cancelling the film due to a lack of Hamas 'clearance' to asking for Adolf Hitler's approval for Auschwitz footage, reported i24NEWS.

The festival had originally approved the film, which follows Tibon on his mission to save his son, his wife and two daughters as they were attacked by Hamas-led terrorists at their home on Kibbutz Nahal Oz on October 7.

The documentary uses bodycam footage filmed by the terrorists themselves during the massacre, which was the single deadliest day in Jewish history since the Holocaust.

The film was pulled by TIFF due to the prospect of disruptive anti-Israel protests at the festival, which will run from September 4-14, as well as concerns about copyright, Deadline reported.

'The invitation for the Canadian documentary film "The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue" was withdrawn by TIFF because general requirements for inclusion in the festival, and conditions that were requested when the film was initially invited, were not met, including legal clearance of all footage,' the organisers said in a statement.

'The purpose of the requested conditions was to protect TIFF from legal implications and to allow TIFF to manage and mitigate anticipated and known risks around the screening of a film about highly sensitive subject matter, including potential threat of significant disruption.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has pulled a documentary about the October 7 massacre because Hamas did not give organisers permission to use bodycam footage



Vehicles damaged in the October 7 Hamas attack at the site of Israel's Nova festival

A man meditates as relatives and supporters of Israelis killed in the October 7 Hamas attack attend a ceremony at the Nova memorial near Kibbutz Reim in southern Israel on the first anniversary of the attacks, October 7, 2024

'As per our terms and conditions for participation in the festival, TIFF may disqualify from participation in the Festival any Film that TIFF determines in its sole and absolute discretion would not be in TIFFs best interest to include in the Festival.'

Tibon, an ex-IDF general and a staunch critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial overhaul, drove from his Tel Aviv home to southern Israel on the morning of October 7 to help the communities attacked on the border.

Since that day, he has been vocal about his opposition to the Israeli government.

The filmmaking team behind the documentary told Deadline: 'We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this film.

'Ultimately, film is an art form that stimulates debate from every perspective that can both entertain us and make us uncomfortable.

'A film festival lays out the feast and the audience decides what they will or wont see.

'We are not political filmmakers, nor are we activists; we are storytellers. We remain defiant, we will release the film, and we invite audiences, broadcasters, and streamers to make up their own mind, once they have seen it.'

Reacting to the films cancelation, the documentarys subject Tibon said it was 'absurd and outrageous'.

Tibon, an ex-IDF general and a staunch critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial overhaul, drove from his Tel Aviv home to southern Israel on the morning of October 7 to help the communities attacked on the border

The documentary follows the story of retired IDF general Noam Tibon during and after the attack that saw around 1,200 people killed and 251 taken hostage



The festival was set to show 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue', directed by Barry Avrich

Some 21 days after the fatal attack on Be'eri Kibbutz, when more than 100 Hamas terrorists entered the Kibbutz and brutally murdered at least 130 members of the kibbutz

'The Toronto festival surrendered to pressure and threats, choosing to silence and erase October 7.

'Barry Avrichs documentary tells a human, not political, story, documenting the grim reality of Israels darkest day. The claim that it cannot be screened because it lacks "usage rights" for Hamas footage from that day is absurd and outrageous - and an insult to the victims.

'Freedom of expression is the courage to present and hear challenging content, even if it is uncomfortable for some audiences.'

Last year, TIFF received backlash from Ukrainian activists because of its antiwar documentary 'Russians at War', which was labelled Russian propaganda by its critics.

The festival cancelled the film's screening before showing it days later with heightened security.

Pro-Palestinian activists also disrupted Israeli filmmaker Shemi Zarhins film, 'Hamada', while Israeli demonstrators, critical of the government, picketed Alexandra Blooms screening of 'The Bibi Files' about Netanyahu using leaked interrogation footage.

'The Road Between Us' was originally invited to play at TIFF subject to certain conditions, including changing its name from 'Out of Nowhere: The Ultimate Rescue', and getting legal clearance to use footage filmed and livestreamed by Hamas terrorists, Deadline reported.

The filmmakers were asked to confirm clearance of the footage, provide a letter of indemnification - legally accepting liability for any copyright violations - as well as well provide added security for the screening.

When the documentary team reportedly did not comply with the conditions, producers got an email formally uninviting the film from the festival by TIFF boss Cameron Bailey on August 12.
A bipartisan duo of congressmen announced that survivors of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's abuse will visit Capitol Hill, with some revealing their experience for the first time.

Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif., announced that they will hold a press conference with the survivors on September 3, the day after Congress returns from its August recess.

The event will feature appearances from those who survived incidents with Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, who were both found guilty of sex trafficking.

'I will be hosting a press conference at the Capitol joined by survivors of Epstein and Maxwell's abuse  several of whom will be speaking out for the first time,' they posted on X.

'The survivors deserve justice and Americans deserve transparency.'

Attorneys for the Epstein and Maxwell survivors are also expected to attend the Capitol Hill press conference.

As pressure has mounted on the White House to release additional files on the deceased pedophile, Congress is expected to vote on a resolution to force the Justice Department and the FBI to declassify documents on the former financier.

Massie and Khanna are the bill's architects, and the legislation would require the DOJ to release all Epstein-related files online within 30 days of the bill's passage.

Donald Trump and his then-girlfriend Melania Knauss with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in 2000

The duo have a plan to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files

A mobile billboard tours around Scotland showing an old photo of Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump as pressure builds on the Republican to release files related to the late sex offender

'Americans deserve to know whether their member of Congress stands on the side of transparency and justice or for protecting the rich and powerful,' Khanna told the Daily Mail in a statement.

'My press conference on Capitol Hill will give survivors a chance to share their stories and urge all of Congress to sign the discharge petition that will force a vote on our bipartisan bill to release the Epstein files.'

Massie and Khanna plan on filing a discharge petition once the House of Representatives returns to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files.

If the effort gathers a simple majority, 218 votes, it could pass and head to the Senate for approval.

If it passes out of the Senate, President Trump could still veto the bill to keep the files hidden.

Senators have told the Daily Mail they would vote in favor of a bill releasing the files as well.

Massie has a history of feuding with Donald Trump and voting against bills backed by the president and his push on the Epstein files has only inflamed their contentious relationship.

His consistent opposition to Trump has frustrated the 79-year-old so much that he has begun a political operation to remove Massie and replace him with a MAGA supporter, including financing ads attacking the lawmaker in his district.

Prince Andrew, Virginia Giuffre, and Ghislaine Maxwell posing for a photo. Virginia Giuffre, who accused disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and Britain's Prince Andrew of sexual abuse, has took her own life at her home in Australia, her family said on April 26, 2025. The image was used as evidence in court

Former President Bill Clinton and Jefrey Epstein in 1993

Massie reportedly asked the president to stop the attack ads targeting him, but that agreement fell apart shortly after it was brokered.

Advocates hoping to see the Epstein files soon were dealt a blow after a US District Judge denied the DOJ's request to unseal private testimony given in Maxwell's sex trafficking case.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche met with Maxwell multiple times in recent weeks to discuss her sex trafficking case, which has been appealed to the Supreme Court.

The House Oversight Committee is also working to uncover additional information on Epstein, his network and his crimes.

Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., has sent subpoenas to Bill and Hillary Clinton in addition to other top former officials to have them testify about what they know.
A family of three were killed after a tree fell onto the car they were inside during disastrous flooding in Tennessee overnight.

The tree crushed a car with a mother, father and child inside in East Ridge - about 15 minutes outside of Chattanooga - early Wednesday morning.

Saturated ground caused the tree to tumble over just after midnight, according to Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management spokesperson Amy Maxwell.

Meanwhile, emergency personnel are looking for a man who walked through a flooded road in Chattanooga. He hasn't been seen since last night, Maxwell said.

Nearly seven inches of rain fell Tuesday evening, leading to catastrophic flooding in the area.

Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp declared a state of emergency just before 8am Wednesday and will remain in effect until 9.30pm.

Schools in the county are also closed along with several roadways, including I-24, due to the heavy rainfall.

Others had to be rescued from homes and vehicles that got stuck in the murky floodwater.

Several cars are seen nearly submerged under flood water Tuesday night in Chattanooga

Three people, including a child, were crushed to death by a falling tree as disastrous floods hit Tennessee overnight. (Pictured: File Photo of sinking car in flood water in Chattanooga)

Nearly seven inches of rain fell Tuesday night leading to monstrous flooding. (Pictured: Trucks and cars stuck in floodwater in Chattanooga)

Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett said the flooding is the worst he's ever seen.

'I've seen flooding throughout my career all over the county. It's typically concentrated in one area,' Garrett told Chattanooga Times Free Press.

'This is extremely widespread. It made it difficult for us to even get here ourselves to try to help other people.

'So no, Ive never seen it to this extent, this widespread in so many areas and impacting travel the way it is.'

The Brainerd Recreation Center has been opened an evacuation zone, the Chattanooga Fire Department announced.

Paul Broughton, a local who witnessed the biblical flooding, described how fast the water took over.

'I mean, it was just a matter of coming out of that gully right there, and then I looked and the whole road was covered. Lord have mercy,' he told the outlet.

'Little rain here and a little rain there, and all of a sudden it just started coming down, and it just it was relentless.'

The East Brainerd branch of First Horizon Bank is seen flooded by the waters

Swift Water Rescue teams were seen launching rafts into the water to save those trapped

Several vehicles are seen stranded on a local highway as onlookers take pictures of the flood damage

The Hamilton Sheriff's Department is seen helping trapped drivers get out of the flooded road

Swift Water Rescue teams were seen launching rafts into the water to save those trapped.

Garrett urged locals to not try to travel anywhere during the flood.

'The biggest thing we want to stress for everyone is stay home. And if you're in a safe place, stay there,' he said.

'Don't try to get home right now because we have so many roadways that are closed. They're just, you can't get through the intersections.'

City officials plan to inspect the damage throughout the day.

Daily Mail contacted Maxwell and the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office for comment.
The BBC was forced to edit its flagship Today programme and apologise after a guest branded Robert Jenrick 'xenophobic'.

Author and refugee charity boss Dr Krish Kandiah prompted fury after he criticised this weekend's Mail on Sunday front page in which the shadow justice secretary said he worried for his young daughters and defended residents protesting against asylum hotels.

During the Thought for the Day segment this morning, the theologian suggested the Tory MP's concerns were 'irrational' and such language 'fuelled angry protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers.'

But after Mr Jenrick said that it was wrong to brand those who fear for their children 'racist', saying they were instead 'good parents', the BBC removed segments from the Radio 4 breakfast broadcast.

They also issued an apology for the 'inclusion' of some of the language used.

'On BBC Radio 4 this morning listeners were told that if you're concerned about the threat of illegal migrants to your kids, you're racist,' Mr Jenrick tweeted.

'Wrong. You're a good parent.'

The row erupted after Dr Kandiah said: 'A front page story in The Mail on Sunday quoted shadow justice minister Robert Jenrick talking about his fears for his young daughters,' he said.

Top Tory admits he fears for his own three daughters (pictured) against a backdrop of illegal migrants with 'medieval attitudes' crossing the Channel. Mr Jenrick, whose daughters are 14, 12 and ten, says the Channel crossings are now a 'national security emergency'

Author and refugee charity boss Dr Krish Kandiah prompted fury after he criticised this weekend's Mail on Sunday front page in which the shadow justice secretary said he worried for his young daughters and defended residents protesting against asylum hotels

Protestors gathered outside the Britannia Hotel in Bournemouth on Friday after it was announced it would be used to house asylum seekers

'He said, "I certainly don't want my children to share a neighbourhood with men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally and about whom we know next to nothing."

'These words echo a fear many have absorbed. Fear of the stranger. The technical name for this is xenophobia.

'All phobias are by definition irrational. Nevertheless, they have a huge impact.

'It is understandable that many people are scared by the unknown, especially if they've been told illegality and unfairness are part of the story. However, over the past year, xenophobia has fuelled angry protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers, deepening divisions in our communities.'

Dr Kandiah then quoted statistics saying the majority of people arriving in small boats are 'found to be genuinely fleeing war, persecution and famine'.

He did not state that the boats cross the Channel from France  a safe country  before arriving in the UK.

Reform MP Richard Tice defended Jenrick, saying: 'Delusional lefty filling R4 Today as usual.

'Trying to smear and label anyone who stands up for British women and girls

'We should be proud of Britain, our traditional values and affirm that our culture is superior to the anti-women misogynistic culture of some other nations.'

A Tory source said: 'Thought for the Day has long descended into a bunch of nobodies wittering on about their mad-hat socialist ideas.

'If the BBC are not prepared to broadcast serious religious voices they should at least ensure the second-rate ones they do find are balanced.'

A BBC spokesman said: 'Today's episode of Thought for the Day contained reflections from a faith perspective on fear in society but has been edited to remove some of the language used and we apologise for its inclusion.'
A man allegedly beaten to death with a concrete slab by three teenagers on the Isle of Sheppey was recently spared jail for stalking a woman - and was once described by police as a 'one man crime wave', the Daily Mail can reveal.

Alexander Cashford, 49, was found dead with multiple serious injuries in Leysdown-on-Sea in Kent on Sunday.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 14 and 15, have been charged with his murder, which followed reports of 'an altercation' involving a small group of people.

The trio of children, who can't be named for legal reasons, appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court on Wednesday afternoon over the alleged attack.

The 16-year-old and 14-year-old both cried during the hearing while the 15-year-old looked at the floor, rocking slightly.

The defendants were accompanied in the well of the court by their parents, while other family members watched from the public gallery.

Mr Cashford appeared in court earlier this year, accused of following a young woman home from work and visiting her house in the early hours of the morning, where he posted a chocolate bar and a letter through her door.

Mr Cashford, from Rainham, in Kent, visited the address in nearby Gillingham twice, first at 1.39am and then seven minutes later at 1.46am on March 9.

Alexander Cashford, 49, was found dead with multiple serious injuries in Leysdown-on-Sea in Kent on Sunday

Police pictured searching the scene near Warden Bay beach on the Isle of Sheppey on August 11

Emergency services pictured at the scene yesterday as they continued to search for evidence

He admitted a charge of stalking involving serious alarm and distress at North Kent Magistrates' Court on March 17 and was placed on a month's curfew and fitted with a tag which was to remain in place until September 16.

Magistrates warned him to refrain from contacting the woman he followed, to keep away from her address and he was banned from the Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre in Gillingham.

The Daily Mail can also reveal that Mr Cashford, who worked as an electrician, was jailed for three years and four months in 2015 after stealing vehicle parts worth more than 63,000.

He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to nearly 200 offences relating to vehicle theft, money laundering and making off without payment

In one instance Cashford sold a stolen vehicle badge back to its original owner.

The Vauxhall Insignia badge was stolen from the car situated in a car park in Gravesend in January 2014.

Police identified more than 160 victims of thefts in which fog lights and other vehicle parts were removed from the cars and sold on via internet auction sites.

Detective constable Sarbjeet Khattoare, who investigated the crime spree along with detective constable Michael Champion, described Cashford as a 'one man crime wave' who made a quick profit from an illegal gap in the market.

DC Khattoare said: 'With the introduction of led light technology into newer cars he recognised that people would be looking for cheaper alternatives when parts needed replacing.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Mr Cashford, pictured, appeared in court earlier this year, accused of following a young woman home from work and visiting her house in the early hours of the morning, where he posted a chocolate bar and a letter through her door

Police officers carry out searches near the scene in the Leysdown-on-Sea resort on the Isle of Sheppey on Monday

A police cordon was put up in a large clearing behind the beach in front of a caravan park

'By stealing the lights he was able to make thousands whilst the victims of the crime often were left having to stump up the cash to find replacements.'

Following Sunday's altercation, Kent Police attended along with South East Coast Ambulance Service.

Mr Cashford was said to have been chased onto a beach in Leysdown close to a holiday caravan park. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two teenage boys and girl were arrested and taken into custody.

The boys, aged 14 and 15, and the 16-year-old girl were charged with murder by joint venture yesterday.

The three teens, all from London, are thought to have been on holiday in Kent at the time of the attack.

Prosecuting, Dylan Bradshaw said: 'What we know is that Alexander Cashford, a 49-year-old male, shortly after 7pm on Sunday August 10, went to the beach area of Warden's Bay.

'About an hour and five mins later, he was pronounced dead - during that period, he was the subject of a violent assault.'

The attack is alleged to involve a glass bottle and rocks being thrown, the court heard.

The girl and two boys have been remanded into youth detention accommodation to appear on Thursday at Maidstone Crown Court.

A 12-year-old girl, arrested on Tuesday in Basildon, Essex, is still in custody.
John F. Kennedy's grandson has been ridiculed after being hired by Trump-nemesis Chuck Schumer to help Democrats celebrate America's upcoming 250th birthday.

Jack Schlossberg, a social media personality who has made headlines with a number of inappropriate outbursts, was appointed to the America 250 Commission by the New York Senator.

The role will see the Kennedy heir collaborate with Congress to prepare celebrations across the nation for the landmark anniversary.

But many questioned Schumer's choice to bring the firebrand Democrat scion on board, and pointed to his recent controversies including demanding Megyn Kelly expose her genitals because she criticized Benjamin Netanyahu.

In reaction to Schumer's post announcing the move, in which the Senator said he 'cant think of a better person than Jack' for the role, X users quickly piled on.

'Actually Chuck, Jack Schlossberg is the LAST person that should be part of the 250 Commission,' attorney Sue Ellena responded.

Ellena cited one of Schlossberg's many ill-advised social media posts, where he mocked his uncle RFK Jr's 'Make America Healthy Again (MAHA)' slogan with a vulgar fake recipe for a 'MAHA energy ball' made of coconut meat along with, 'Jew blood' and semen.

John F. Kennedy's grandson Jack Schlossberg has been ridiculed after being hired by Trump-nemesis Chuck Schumer to help Democrats celebrate America's upcoming 250th birthday

Schlossberg, a social media personality who has made headlines with a number of inappropriate outbursts, was named by the New York Senator to the America 250 Commission this week by Schumer

Schlossberg announced his new role alongside Schumer on Tuesday as he said it was an 'honor' to be chosen.

'Thank you @SenSchumer for this appointment and responsibility, and for your leadership at this critical hour - I wont let you down,' he said on X.

The Democrat heir then followed up that post with another aimed at CNN analyst Scott Jennings.

'Scott Jennings rumor I heard  not sure if true  Drinks own pee,' he wrote.

The unsavory post is in keeping with Schlossberg's social media habits, which many pointed to as they flooded the announcement posts on X.

One questioned his qualifications, saying that Schlossberg has a famous last name and questionably social media history, but no 'actual experience planning a national milestone'.

Another X user responded: 'OMG... Schlossberg is a nut.'

In response to Schumer's decision, another bemused social media user said: 'You're kidding. Really? He's a freaking mess, but okay.'

As Schlossberg was announced to the commission this week, Schumer said he was giving him the position 'to push back at Donald Trump'

Schumer said he was giving Schlossberg the position 'to push back at Donald Trump', who will want his own ideas to dominate America's birthday.

'You'll be there to stop him,' Schumer reassured.

Schlossberg then ranted about how the 250th anniversary needed to go against what he sees as Trump's values.

'Thank you, Senator, for this honor, for your leadership. For the honor of this appointment,' he said.

'We are the heirs of our first revolution 250 years ago and at our best moments, our country has lived up to our founding documents, but we have not always come through.

'Right now, our civil rights are under attack, equal justice is under attack, scientific progress is under attack and I want to make sure that we celebrate our country for all of its colors and there is no more important task than celebrating our history for the sake of our future.'

Schumer's Instagram post continued: 'Im thrilled to announce Im appointing Jack Schlossberg @jackuno to the America 250 Commission.

'We need someone who will make sure Americas 250th birthday celebrates our nation and our values. And I cant think of a better person than Jack to take on that mission.'
A viral internet account known for posting about Washington DC was ridiculed online after its attempt to prove 'crime isn't that bad' backfired massively.

Washingtonian Problems, an anti-MAGA account that focuses on DC's issues, asked its followers to post positive traits about the ailing city to 'push back' against Trump.

However, the account was quickly inundated with comments from locals that only served to prove that Trump's law enforcement takeover is warranted.

The X account wrote: 'Hey DC, lets push back against the negative narrative about our city. Share why you love our beautiful home and help show the world the real DC.'

Testimonials came in thick and fast from people who had been the victims of serious crimes - who were happy that the National Guard are being deployed.

'I've been held up at gunpoint, had my car broken into 3 times, and had my bike stolen. My credit card has been skimmed too many times to count and I can't send my kids to public school here because they're a joke,' wrote Bret Manley, a children's book author based in the D.C. area.

Multiple people wrote that they or people they knew have been robbed or mugged in front of police officers who declined to intervene.

'My car was broken into. One friend had a car stolen from in front of his place, another was carjacked at gun point. Ive had to assist someone who was shot while I was just trying to drunkenly make my way home from a bar,' another person wrote. 'F*** you. Thank god for the new enforcement.'

An anti-MAGA account that focuses on Washington, D.C. issues tried to downplay crime in a recent post

Pictured: The account, Washingtonian Problems, wrote this on Monday hoping to spread positivity about the nation's capital

Grayson Quay, a conservative writer and former editor at The Daily Caller, wrote about a time he was assaulted on the Metro.

'It was really cool when a guy headbutted me on the metro after I asked him to stop blasting music through his phone speakers,' he wrote. 'And then there was the time a bum spat on me for no reason.'

Tim Kennedy, a producer for outlet The Daily Signal, recalled a quadruple shooting at King Street Oyster Bar in August 2024 that killed two people.

'The D.C. chief of police blamed the restaurant for not properly locking up their patio at night,' Kennedy wrote. 'No, this actually happened.'

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) released a statement at the time saying that the restaurant, which was closed at the time of the shooting, failed to secure its patio and allowed people to gather.

'Without preventative measures, the open patio contributed to the group establishing themselves and continue to grow, leading to the gun violence that resulted in four people being shot, two of which are deceased, and significant property damage,' the department said in a statement.

Other commenters talked about the mental toll of living in a city with high crime, including conservative political strategist Sarah Selip.

'As a woman #TheRealDC means carrying pepper spray day and night. Not wearing headphones after dark. Taking off your engagement ring when walking the dogs,' she wrote.

The more constructive replies to Washingtonian Problems accused the account of being tone deaf and unwilling to acknowledge reality.

'Its a beautiful city but its not negativity to admit that the crime is out of control,' one person wrote.

The same day Washingtonian Problems made this post attempting to 'push back against the negative narrative about our city,' a man was shot to death in D.C.'s Logan Circle neighborhood.

Pictured: US military personnel walks outside the D.C. Armory on Tuesday after Trump's announcement that he would federalize the Metropolitan Police Department

Pictured: Agents with the FBI, the ATF and MPD officers are seen patrolling M Street in Georgetown on Tuesday

As of August 2025, violent crime has plummeted by 26 percent since last year, according to the MPD. Homicide is down 11 percent, while sex abuse offenses have been cut in half.

However, there is potentially reason to doubt these statistics, since MPD placed 3rd District Commander Michael Pulliam on leave last month over accusations of manipulating crime data.

D.C. Police Union Chairman Gregg Pemberton told NBC 4 he doesn't believe there has been as large of a crime drop as local officials have claimed.

'There's potentially a drop from where we were in 2023. I think that there's a possibility that crime has come down. But the department is reporting that in 2024, crime went down 35 percent -- violent crime  and another 25 percent through August of this year,' Pemberton said.

'That is preposterous to suggest that cumulatively we've seen 60-plus percent drops in violent crime from where we were in 23, because we're out on the street. We know the calls we're responding to,' he added.

Since Trump took over the MPD and mobilized the National Guard, the White House claimed that more than 100 people have been arrested.
A pensioner died during heart surgery at an NHS hospital after the operating theatre she was in suffered a ten-minute-long power cut, an inquest heard.

Jean Dye, 77, was at the crucial stage of the procedure when the electricity went down - meaning doctors had to delay the process as they couldnt see vital X rays.

Five years after her death, a coroner has now issued a report saying that the delay in restoring power was a critical factor in her death.

It was found that an engineer was required to reset the system because it was in another part of the hospital.

In a Prevention of Future Deaths Report, Paul Smith, Senior Coroner for Greater Lincolnshire, has now raised concerns about the lack of power controls within the operating theatre and that medical professionals werent trained in how to understand when electricity has been restored.

Mrs Dye, from Grimsby, Lincolnshire, suffered an underlying cardiac disease and attended Scunthorpe General Hospital to have it treated, the inquest was told.

At the time of her death in September, 2020, she was having stents implanted to treat narrowed blood vessels.

The operation only has a limited window to deploy the devices, the hearing was told.

Jean Dye, 77, was at the crucial stage of the procedure when the electricity went down - meaning doctors had to delay the process as they couldnt see vital X rays

It was confirmed that power cuts have occasionally happened at hospitals across the country but the staff in Scunthorpe had not had this happen before

However, at exactly this moment there was a sudden and unexpected power cut, which lasted for 10 minutes.

It meant that medics could not see X-rays they needed for the procedure.

No clear cause for the power cut has been identified, other than it overrode the back-up electrical supply, Mr Smith said.

It was confirmed that power cuts have occasionally happened at hospitals across the country but the staff in Scunthorpe had not had this happen before.

There was no manual re-activation of the circuit meaning that an engineer had to come to fix the issue.

Once the power had returned, the stenting was completed but Mrs Dye failed to recover and she later passed away, the inquest heard.

The hearing concluded that on the balance of probabilities, Mrs Dye would have survived but for the loss of electrical power.

It gave her cause of death as an iatrogenic artery dissection during a percutaneous coronary intervention.

Mr Smith raised concerns about the lack of an indicator within the lab to confirm that the power had re-activated.

There were also issues with the reset button being elsewhere in the hospital.

Mr Smith said: 'The delay whilst power was restored was a critical factor in this death.

'The loss of power arose as a result of the Emergency Power Off (EPO) circuit activating. It overrode the emergency power back up system.

'All staff at the scene were unaware of the cause of the loss of power, never having experienced such a situation previously, and an engineer was summoned to attend to reinstate the power, which he did.

'There was no light or other indicator within the lab to confirm to those present that the EPO circuit had activated. Likewise there was no restart button within the lab to permit the EPO circuit to be reset. That lay within the plant room elsewhere within the hospital.

'Had staff been aware of the exact cause of the loss of power on this occasion and had they had the opportunity to reset the circuit without the need to await the arrival of an engineer, who in turn had to attend a separate plant room, the downtime would likely have been significantly reduced.

'Whilst it was not possible to say that the additional time spent on this occasion made a difference between the patient surviving or not, there may well be future cases within which such fine margins are time critical.

'I received evidence that there is no current guidance in relation to the siting of such controls remote from the affected room. I invite review of that guidance and of the need for any consequential training.'

Mr Smith sent the report to NHS England and the Health Service Executive, who have until August 28 to respond.
President Donald Trump left Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders with jitters after a call Wednesday to discuss Trump's vital meeting in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump will fly to Anchorage on Friday to meet Putin face-to-face and try to negotiate a ceasefire and eventually bring the Ukraine war to a close.

The U.S. president reiterated to Zelensky that he would likely have to cede some Ukrainian territory to Russia in order to stop the three and a half year military assault.

Zelensky has remained resistant, saying afterward that he warned Trump that 'Putin is bluffing' about wanting to end the war.

The Ukrainian leader also said that no decisions about territory could be made without Ukraine in the room.

European leaders echoed Zelensky's sentiment - and said that Trump basically agreed to those terms.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who is hosting Zelensky in Berlin, said Europe's leaders are doing everything to ensure that Trump's meeting with Putin 'goes the right way.'

At the Kennedy Center Wednesday, Trump rated the call with Zelensky and European leaders a '10,' calling it 'very friendly.'

President Donald Trump previewed his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an event at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday

French President Emmanuel Macron (left) speaks by video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (left, onscreen) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) on Wednesday. The leaders also had a joint call with President Donald Trump

'We had a very good call, he was on the call, President Zelensky was on the call, I would rate it a 10,' Trump told reporters.

When asked why Zelensky was excluded from the Alaska summit, Trump said it was 'always going to be' just the U.S. leader and Putin.

He said Friday's meeting is simply 'setting the table' for a future trilateral summit between Putin, Zelensky and Trump.

'If the first one goes OK, we'll have a quick second one,' Trump said. 'I would like to do it almost immediately and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there, and that would be a meeting where maybe it could be absolutely worked.'

French President Emmanuel Macron, who Axios reported told Trump that 'a meeting is a very big thing to give to Putin,' came out afterward and said the U.S. president hoped to get a ceasefire out of the sit-down.

Macron also said 'no serious territorial exchange schemes' are currently on the table.

On Wednesday, the Times of London reported that a West Bank-like option was being floated as a way to deal with occupied Ukrainian territory.

Russia - like Israel does with the Palestinian West Bank - would have military and economic control of the territory under its own governing body.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (pictured) appeared Wednesday at a press conference alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz following a virtual call with President Donald Trump

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer participates in a video call with European leaders on Ukraine ahead of President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's meeting in Alaska on Friday

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (left) welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (right) to Berlin on Wednesday

The White House quickly swatted down that report to the Daily Mail.

'This is total fake news and sloppy reporting by The Times, who clearly has terrible sources. Nothing of the sort was discussed with anyone at any point,' White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said Wednesday in a statement.

During the 2024 campaign, Trump pledged his supporters that he would end the Ukraine war on 'day one,' as Republican support for the conflict has dwindled.

Once in office, the issue has caused the most dramatic clash in Trump's Oval Office - a late February fight with Zelensky in front of the press.

That relationship has since improved, while Trump has become more skeptical of Putin.

He credited that development to first lady Melania Trump, who has pointed out Putin's continued bombing campaigns of Ukrainian territory after having friendly conversations with the U.S. president.

In turn, Trump has started to squeeze Russia more economically.

Last week, the president announced that he'd hit India with an additional 25 tariff over the country's decision to buy Russian oil.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to meet with President Donald Trump in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday. It will mark the first time the Russian leader and a U.S. leader come face-to-face since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine

Trump further threatened Russia during his Wednesday event announcing the Kennedy Center honorees.

He was asked what would happen if Putin refused to end the war.

'There will be consequences,' Trump said. 'I don't have to say,' he answered when asked for specifics.

'There will be very severe consequences,' the president reiterated.
Sir Keir Starmer today warned 'borders must not be changed by force' as he joined EU leaders in pressuring Donald Trump not to hand parts of Ukraine to Russia.

The Prime Minister and his European counterparts joined a call this afternoon with the US President and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky.

The emergency virtual summit comes ahead of Mr Trump's meeting with Russia's Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

There are worries in London and other European capitals that Mr Trump will offer to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia as part of a ceasefire deal.

The PM used Wednesday's call to thank Mr Trump for his efforts in trying to secure an end to the three-year conflict in Ukraine.

Sir Keir later said the US President's actions had created a 'viable' chance of a peace agreement.

But he also pledged his 'unwavering' support for Ukraine, after Mr Zelensky blasted Mr Trump's suggestion that a peace agreement could include 'land-swapping'.

As well as Sir Keir, Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky, Wednesday's call also included the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, and EU and NATO officials.

Sir Keir Starmer warned 'borders must not be changed by force' as he joined EU leaders in pressuring Donald Trump not to hand parts of Ukraine to Russia

The Prime Minister and some of his European counterparts joined a call this afternoon with the US President and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky

After the call with Mr Trump, Sir Keir co-chaired a meeting of the so-called 'coalition of the willing' of Ukrainian allies.

The coalition of the willing is an international effort to support Ukraine towards a lasting peace, led by the UK, France and Ukraine.

It is made up of 31 countries that have pledged strengthened support for Kyiv, including 27 European countries, as well as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

As he addressed the meeting, Sir Keir said: 'As I've said personally to President Trump, but for three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on and we haven't got anywhere near the prospect of actually a viable solution, a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire.

'Now we do have that chance, because of the work the President has put in.'

Speaking to leaders - including US vice-president JD Vance - Sir Keir said Russia should continue to be put under pressure.

'This is a critical moment,' the PM said. 'We have to combine active diplomacy on the one hand with military support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia.'

He added: 'International borders cannot be, and must not be changed by force, and again that's a long-standing principle of this group.

'And alongside that, any talk about borders, diplomacy, ceasefire has to sit alongside a robust and credible security guarantee to ensure that any peace, if there is peace, is lasting peace and Ukraine can defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.'

Plans have already been formed to deploy a 'reassurance force' once a ceasefire has been agreed, Sir Keir said.

The PM also revealed the UK was also drawing up further 'strong sanctions' on Russia as part of an attempt to squeeze Mr Putin.

The US President is meeting the Russian leader as he attempts to fulfil his promise to bring to an end the three year-long conflict in Ukraine

There are worries in London and European capitals that Mr Trump will offer to cede Ukrainian territory to Mr Putin as part of a ceasefire deal

Speaking to troops at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, US vice-president JD Vance said that Mr Trump's mission was to 'bring peace to Europe once again'

In a readout of the earlier call with Mr Trump, a Downing Street spokesperson said: 'All leaders agreed this week marks an important moment for the future of Ukraine.

'They thanked President Trump for his efforts in bringing Putin to the table in pursuit of a ceasefire to end to the ongoing bloodshed.

'The PM was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering - international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.

'Europe stands ready to support this and will continue to work alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, they added.

'They looked forward to speaking again following the meeting in Alaska on Friday.'

In his own comments following Wednesday's call, Mr Zelensky revealed how he told Mr Trump that Mr Putin is 'bluffing' about his desire to end the war.

'I told the US President and all our European colleagues that Putin is bluffing,' the Ukrainian President said.

'He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine.'

Mr Zelensky added that he wanted a three-way meeting with Mr Trump and Mr Putin, saying no talks about Ukraine should exclude Kyiv.

Speaking to troops at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire later on Wednesday, Mr Vance said that Mr Trump's mission was to 'bring peace to Europe once again'.

The US vice-president said: 'The President of the United States came in six months ago.

'And I just talked to him right before I came on the stage, and he said very simply that we are going to make it our mission as an administration to bring peace to Europe once again.

'But as you all know, it is impossible to bring peace anywhere, unless the bad guys are also worried that we've got a hell of a fine air force, and a hell of a fine military to back up the peace to begin with.'

Ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting, Volodymyr Zelensky declared he will not hand his country's eastern Donbas region to Russia as the price for peace

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Earlier this week, ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting, Mr Zelensky declared he will not hand his country's eastern Donbas region to Russia as the price for peace.

He warned, if handed to the Kremlin, Mr Putin would merely use the region as a 'springboard for a future new offensive' on Ukraine.

A European diplomatic source told The i Paper that permanent changes to the Ukraine-Russia border would not be accepted.

They added that land swaps must be off the table in Mr Trump's discussions with Mr Putin.

But there are also reported tensions between the UK and EU capitals, with a British official revealing concerns about 'unhelpful running commentary' from European leaders about the Trump-Putin talks.

'Unlike our European colleagues, we are not publicly out there making demands of the Americans,' they told The Telegraph.

'A lot of the way the Europeans seem to be behaving, they're going to annoy the Americans, they're going to annoy Trump if they start making demands and if they put out red lines.'

It comes after Mr Merz and Kaja Kallas, the EU's top diplomat, both publicly called for Mr Zelensky to be allowed to attend the talks in Alaska.

Ms Kallas said: 'We cannot accept that territorial issues between Russia and America are discussed or even decided over the heads of Europeans and Ukrainians.'

Mr Zelensky said at a news briefing on Tuesday that Mr Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region that Kyiv controls as part of a ceasefire deal.

This was conveyed to him by US officials, Mr Zelensky added.

However, he reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls because it is unconstitutional and would only serve as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

Mr Trump has also signalled he thinks Ukraine might need to cede territory in order to end the conflict, stating there is likely to be 'some land-swapping going on'.

Speaking during a lengthy press conference on Monday, Mr Trump pledged to 'try to get back' some of Ukraine's 'oceanfront property' from Russia.

He said: 'We're going to change the lines, the battle lines. Russia has occupied a big portion of Ukraine. They've occupied some very prime territory. We're going to try and get some of that territory back for Ukraine.

'They have taken largely  in real estate we call it oceanfront property. That's always the most valuable property.'

A statement released by the EU on Tuesday read: 'A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

'The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.

'Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities.'

In response, Mr Zelensky said on X (formerly Twitter): 'I am grateful to the leaders of Europe for their clear support for our independence, territorial integrity, and precisely such an active approach to diplomacy that can help end this war with a dignified peace.

'Indeed, We all support President Trump's determination, and together we must shape positions that will not allow Russia to deceive the world once again.

'We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations.

'In such circumstances, it is important that the unity of the world is not threatened.

'As long as they continue the war and the occupation, all of us together must maintain our pressure  the pressure of strength, the pressure of sanctions, the pressure of diplomacy.'
A mother killed by a falling tree branch saved her daughter's life by pushing the youngster out of the way in the split second before she was hit.

Madia Kauser, 32, was taking the little girl, five, and her older brother for an evening walk in the park when the tree fell directly towards them.

It's understood the girl was in a pushchair which Mrs Kauser managed to push away before taking the full force of the falling branch herself - so that her daughter survived unscathed.

Her husband Wasim Khan, 33, was just yards ahead with their nine-year-old son when the branch fell but was powerless to act in time during the shocking episode on Monday night.

He rushed to her side but little could be done for his tragic wife who relatives say adored her children.

One told the Daily Mail: 'Madia would have done anything for her children.'

The family are said to be in a state of shock after the freak accident which happened near Witton Country Park in Blackburn, Lancashire, a popular local beauty spot.

On Wednesday, Blackburn council had completely cut down what remained of the tree from which the branch fell as well as lopping off branches from several other nearby trees.

Madia Kauser, 32, was taking the little girl, five, and her older brother for an evening walk in the park when the tree fell directly towards them

The tree which the branch fell from and killed Ms Kauser has since been cut down

Trees in the area have also had numerous branches removed in a bid to avoid another incident

The mum had been walking with her husband and two children when the tragedy unfolded

The area was littered with sawdust.

The accident happened just yards from the park's Big Cover wood where trees form the majority of the habitat.

On Wednesday relatives from all over the country were gathering at Blackburn's Madina mosque where the family were hoping a funeral could take place sometime in the evening.

Former mayor and still sitting councillor Zamir Khan MBE, an uncle in the tight-knit family, said Madia's body was still with the coroner.

He said: 'Her little girl told me her mother pushed her out of the way as the branch fell.

'Madia was a loving, doting mother and a very caring person.

'The older boy was walking with his father in front and could not believe what happened.

'It is very hard for the children. I do not think they will ever walk in that park again.

Mrs Kauser was described as a 'doting mother and a very caring person' by councillor Zamir Khan MBE

Madia saved her daughter's life and lost her own when the branch fell from the tree

'It is tarnished for them. Their father is not in a good way either. He and other members of the family have taken it very hard.

'People have come from all over the country - from Sheffield, Bradford, Birmingham, London and other places - to be at her funeral which we hoped to have this afternoon in accordance with Muslim tradition.

'But until her body is released by the coroner, we cannot move forward. We are hoping it will be released today.

'What happened was an act of nature but it is unbelievable.'

In a statement, the council said it was 'deeply saddened' after the accident on Monday.

The authority's chief executive Denise Park said: 'Our thoughts and heartfelt condolence are with the family and friends of the person who has lost their life at this very difficult time.

'Emergency services including paramedics and the air ambulance attended the scene. Council staff also supported by cordoning off the area to ensure public safety.

'As part of precautionary safety measures, the tree involved was being felled this morning.

Pictured: Witton Country Park - where the tragedy unfolded

'Witton Park is a much-loved community space, and the safety of everyone who visits is of the utmost importance to us.

'Our thoughts remain first and foremost with the family at this very sad time.'

A Lancashire Police spokesman said the woman's death was not being treated as suspicious and a file would be prepared for the coroner.

A cyclist who rides through the park every day said: 'I have seen loads of fallen branches before but it is mainly because of high winds.

'There wasn't even a breeze when this poor woman was killed. It is utterly heartbreaking.

'I shudder to think what her poor children and husband are going through.'

Many people walking there today were unaware of the tragedy and thought the council were carrying out unnecessary tree work.

One said: 'I was initially cross that they had cut the tree down until someone told me what had happened. It doesn't bear thinking about.'

Local councillor Paul Marrow said: 'There have been concerns about ash dieback disease and the number of dead trees in Witton Park and across the borough.

'The council needs to make regular, thorough inspections of the trees in the park to ensure they are safe.'
A sneaky fugitive who managed to escape police custody as he was being marched through Seattle's airport is still at large.

John Nino, 20, was being returned to Washington after getting arrested several days ago in New Mexico on a second-degree robbery charge.

However, while Nino was being transported through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at around 8pm on Tuesday, the fugitive managed to escape his captors and flee the scene.

Two Department of Corrections officers were leading Nino over the skybridge to the airport's parking garage when he escaped.

Nino was cuffed at the wrists and not at the ankles, according to DOC spokesperson Chris Wright.

He was last seen by officers crossing railway tracks and heading towards Washington's Highway 99.

The 20-year-old, who is 6'2 and weighs 154lbs, is still on the run, according to the Daily Beast.

Authorities urged people to not approach Nino if they spot him in public, and to instead report any sightings to law enforcement.

John Nino, 20 (pictured), was being returned to Washington after getting arrested several days ago in New Mexico on a second-degree robbery charge

Nino has a lengthy criminal history in Washington's King County that includes two convictions for firearm possession in 2024 and a second-degree robbery in 2018, when he was 13.

In June, a warrant was issued for his arrest after he violated community supervision terms.

This is the third time a fugitive has escaped custody while at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport over the last few months.

Three months ago, Sedrick Stevenson - who was facing an arrest warrant - managed to flee during the check-in process at the ticket counter.

He ran away from two employees of Prisoner Transportation Services, a private company the Warren County sheriffs office in Kentucky contracts to transport people facing warrants.

Stevenson, 29, fled to the light rail station and boarded a northbound train before exiting at the Capitol Hill station.

While Nino (pictured running) was being transported through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at around 8 pm on Tuesday, the fugitive managed to escape his captors and flee the scene

He was at large for over six weeks before being apprehended by authorities 45 days later.

Stevenson was also cuffed at the wrists but not at the ankles.

In July, a man from El Salvador escaped immigration agents while being transported through the same airport.

He had opened a car door and ran off near the airports car rental facility before he was caught few hours later near the rideshare pickup area.
Voice of America's foreign journalists are grappling with unprecedented deportation efforts by their new boss.

Kari Lake was tapped in February to serve as senior advisor of the United States Agency for Global Media and ultimately shut down the government-funded international broadcaster that employs a trifecta of ire for President Donald Trump  federal workers, immigrants, and journalists.

After firing hundreds and decimating international broadcasters, Lake is now on a mission to force these former J-1 visa holders out of the country, according to a new report by The Atlantic.

She claims they are as much of a threat as criminal illegal aliens and gang members.

Going onto conservative media outlets in recent weeks, Lake noted how those who lost their jobs at Voice of America (VOA) in recent months but remain in the U.S. with an expired work visa will be targeted by Trump's mass deportation efforts.

'Their time here is up,' Lake told Real America's Voice host Eric Bolling when speaking of anyone living in the U.S. without documentation.

'And I said before, if I have to go to the airport with them, and accompany them to the airport and get them on the flight, I will do that.'

Lake warned: 'If you overstay your visa, ICE is going to find you. And they will find you in this case as well.'

Kari Lake says her former employees who no longer hold J-1 visas will be targeted for deportation if they stay 30 days beyond when they were fired

Lake leads the U.S. Agency for Global Media, the parent agency of government-funded international broadcaster Voice of America. Only a few dozens people work at VOA now after Lake shut down Radio Free Asia, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks and downsized from broadcasting in 50 languages to just a handful

Even with the endorsement of Trump, Lake failed in her Arizona gubernatorial and U.S. Senate campaigns in 2021 and 2024, respectively.

Trump tapped the former broadcast journalist to run the federal parent of VOA as he sought to shut it down.

J-1 visas are a nonimmigrant visa for foreign individuals approved to work and study in the U.S. on exchange visitor programs. The visa holders are usually sponsored by educational or non-profit organizations.

The Trump administration has included foreigner workers on visas in its wider immigration crackdown. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem threatened to revoke Harvard's ability to host international students if they did not turn over a list of foreign student visa holders.

VOA was one of the government-funded agencies to face widespread cuts once Trump got back into office.

As a condition of their J-1 visas, foreign workers for the broadcaster needed to remain employed by the U.S. Agency for Global Media or else depart the U.S. within 30 days.

Dozens of J-1 visa holders who worked as translators and foreign-language broadcasters lost their jobs in the gutting of VOA this year, leaving their ability to stay in the U.S. up-in-the-air.

Since landing at the U.S. Agency for Global Media Lake moved to eliminate the agency's independent broadcasters that receive government funding, including Radio Free Asia, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Middle East Broadcasting Networks.

Only a few dozen people work at VOA today, down from more than 1,300 before Trump retook office in January. It has downsized from broadcasting in 50 languages to just a handful.

Some J-1 visa holders at VOA have already left the country, others are claiming asylum and a few quickly married or enrolled in school to avoid being deported to countries where they may no longer be welcome

While some VOA workers have already left the country, others are claiming asylum and a few quickly married or enrolled in school to avoid being deported to countries where they may no longer be welcome, The Atlantic reported.

Some of these reporters, who now have the U.S. government as an employer on their resumes, could face persecution or even imprisonment if they are deported to their home nations

Publicly, Lake described VOA as 'rotten to the core' and 'a serious threat to our national security.'

VOA was founded in 1942 as a counterpoint to Nazi propaganda during World War II.

Of Lake's recent comments about deporting her former employees, Steve Herman, a VOA retiree said: 'That sort of rhetoricit's utter nonsense.'

'To perceive these people as a national-security threat is just ridiculous,' the former VOA White House bureau chief added. 'In fact, it can be argued that those responsible for dismantling the Voice of America have harmed America's national security by taking away one of our most powerful instruments of public diplomacy and soft power.'

The significance of VOA's mission became clear during this summer's escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, when dozens of staffers were recalled to restore the Persian news division's critical broadcasts.
The biological sex of almost 10,000 university applicants is not known as thousands now prefer not to say or use another term, new data shows.

Figures from admissions body Ucas show almost 5,000 applicants chose each option this year, instead of ticking male or female.

The two new categories for online university applications were introduced a year ago, in a bid to be more inclusive of trans and non-binary students.

Ucas has previously defended the decision, saying it is important that institutions know how their students identify.

However, Professor Alice Sullivan, a sociologist from University College London, said the figures proved vital data was being lost.

She told the Daily Mail: The different experiences and choices of girls and boys as they leave school and apply for university are a key determinant of later outcomes, including employment and income.

The substantial loss of data on sex will lead to a loss of accuracy in research on these questions.

Replacing clear data collection on sex with a gender variable which confuses sex and gender identity is unjustifiable.

Sex and gender identity are distinct, and data on each of these should be collected via separate questions. Muddling the two does not provide accurate data on either.

The biological sex of almost 10,000 university applicants is not known as thousands now 'prefer not to say' or 'use another term', new data shows (pictured: Professor Alice Sullivan)

Figures from admissions body Ucas show almost 5,000 applicants chose each option this year, instead of ticking 'male' or 'female' (file picture)

This year, 4,660 selected I use another term, while 4,980 selected prefer not to say  each making up just under 1 per cent of the total number of applicants.

In 2022, when the new system was announced, Professor Sullivan led 70 academics in writing an open letter saying it would lead to an erosion of sex-based data in education that will make it impossible to track trends over time.

Professor Sullivan published a Government-commissioned review in March, which highlighted the harms of failing to collect data on biological sex.

Stephanie Davies-Arai, director at Transgender Trend, said: Sex is a key data variable for research, yet this data has been lost for almost 10,000 students because of the nonsense of gender identity.

Having been taught in school to doubt biological reality, it is hardly surprising that so many university applicants are confused about whether they are male or female.

How many other young people are equally confused?

This should be a wake-up call for the Department for Education to get gender identity teaching out of schools.

The two new categories were first introduced in 2024, when 5,820 ticked I use another term and 4,920 ticked prefer not to say.

Ucas was approached for comment and they confirmed the figures are correct.
Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi has been charged with three counts of attempted murder after prison officers were attacked at his high security jail.

Abedi, 28, was ordered to serve a record 55-year minimum term for helping his suicide bomber brother Salman murder 22 people, many of them children, at the Manchester Arena in 2017.

He allegedly attacked four guards at HMP Frankland, County Durham on April 12.

Following an investigation involving Counter Terrorism Policing North East, Abedi was today charged with three counts of attempted murder and one of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He was also charged with unauthorised possession in prison of a knife or offensive weapon.

Under new rules under which police have been told to release a suspect's ethnicity in high-profile cases, Abedi's background was today described as British but of 'self-defined' Asian ethnicity - despite his parents being from Libya in North Africa.

Abedi will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court next month and remains in custody.

Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi (pictured) has been charged with three counts of attempted murder over the alleged prison attack

Abedi was jailed for life in August 2020.

He offered no defence to the charges that he had helped his brother plan the attack on the Manchester Arena in May 2017, killing children, teenagers and adults as they poured out of an Ariana Grande concert or waited for their loved ones, and critically injuring dozens more.

Abedi was charged with the murders even though he was in Libya at the time of the suicide attack by his older brother, Salman who died in the attack.

Abedi, who allegedly had access to a 'self-cook kitchen' at Frankland, is accused of hurling hot oil on prison officers before attacking them with blades.

One male officer was then stabbed in the neck, with the blade coming close to severing an artery, reportedly leaving the victim 'just millimetres' from death.

Another male officer was stabbed at least five times in the back, puncturing a lung.

One of their female colleagues was also injured. The boiling oil is said to have left victims with third-degree burns.

Self-cook kitchens have been introduced across many prisons, including three separation units for terrorist offenders, where inmates are allowed daily supervised access to knives and other bladed implements to cook their own food.

Frankland Prison has housed other notorious terrorists, including Michael Adebolajo, who killed Fusilier Lee Rigby in London in 2013.

After the alleged attack on guards a Prison Service spokesperson said: 'Three prison officers have been treated in hospital after an attack by a prisoner at HMP Frankland.

'Police are now investigating so it would be inappropriate to comment further.

'Violence in prison will not be tolerated, and we will always push for the strongest punishment for attacks on our hard-working staff.'

The Ministry of Justice announced a review following the alleged attack.
A gifted student was suspended after an Arizona school's monitoring system flagged a drafted email where he joked about shooting up the school over a bad grade. Now, his parents are suing.

The Marana High School student, who only goes by NM in court documents, was suspended from the educational institution after a monitoring system picked up on a drafted email that joked about a mass shooting.

The unsent message read: 'GANG, GANG, GIMME A BETTER GRADE OR I SHOOT UP DA SKOOL HOMIE.'

He also included: 'Mister, mister, I want to date your sister,' and 'Skibidi toilet my grade is in the toilet.'

The top-performing sophomore had drafted the email to send to one of his teachers about a bad grade.

He told his mother, Karalee Merrill that he started writing jokes after feeling awkward about asking his teacher for clarification, she told The Arizona Republic.

Karalee had been shocked to learn her son had composed the message after she was contacted by school, which suspended the student over the threat.

The school's system had picked up on the draft within an hour through a program installed on students' Chromebooks - a policy parents have to sign off on every year which made clear that students could be suspended for misusing school property.

Karalee and Curtis Merrill (pictured) are suing Marana High School after their son was suspended, claiming he had a 'right to make a joke about school violence while at home with his mother'

'But there has never been anything that made me think that down to the very keystrokes,' Karalee told The Republic.

His parents, Karalee and Curtis, found out about the system following their son's next-day suspension after Principal Caitlyn Kauffman left them a voicemail.

The parents tried to fight the suspension that could hurt their child's chances of getting into the Air Force Academy - a dream of his.

NM was originally given a 10-day suspension, which was later extended to 45 days after a district hearing.

It would later be shortened to 11 days on the promise that he attend three therapy sessions, which he did.

It was eventually shortened to nine days on his record, despite him having served a total of 11 days.

The parents are now suing the school, saying the suspension violated their son's First Amendment rights as he has a 'right to make a joke about school violence while at home with his mother,' their attorneys argued in the suit, viewed by Daily Mail.

The family argues NM's threat was not credible, nor was it sent, so the school didn't have good reasoning to believe any student faced potential harm.

They also pointed out the school allowed NM back into the school to take his PSAT, 'after which he waited unsupervised on campus for Karalee to pick him up,' the suit read.

He was punished after he drafted an email that read: 'GANG, GANG, GIMME A BETTER GRADE OR I SHOOT UP DA SKOOL HOMIE.' The unsent email was flagged in an hour by the system and was intended to go to a teacher about a bad grade

NM's teachers also allegedly didn't know why he had been suspended or that he had threatened the school.

Karalee also believes her son has become a 'statistic.'

'I've heard more and more about people who have been in trouble for something similar,' she told The Republic.

'I almost feel like my son is now a statistic to make it look like: "Hey, look at what great technology we have for stopping school shootings!" And it makes me wonder how many of these statistics are similar to my son.'

'He's worked hard all his academic life to be a good student. To be a good kid. He volunteers,' she defended.

'And to feel like none of that mattered? To feel like he can do good things his whole life, and one little mistake that he didn't even realize was as big of a mistake as it turned out to be.'

She said her son lost trust, and her and her husband worry this mistake could hurt their son's future, who is hoping to be valedictorian of his class.

'Both my husband and I are former public school teachers. I get that school safety is important,' she told the outlet. 'Having had this experience, I'm realizing what kinds of freedoms... we're giving up for an illusion of safety.'

His parents, Karalee and Curtis, found out about the system following their son's next-day suspension after Principal Caitlyn Kauffman (pictured) left them a voicemail. Parents do signoff on the monitoring system in the Chromebook policy every year

More and more schools across the nation are implementing monitoring programs similar to that at Marana High School.

Fifty-two school districts or charter schools in Arizona are using monitoring programs. Programs like these have been credited with saving countless lives.

More than 250 school shootings occurred in the US during the 2024-25 school year.

Daily Mail has contacted the family and school for comment.
When France finally agreed to loan Britain the Bayeux Tapestry, many thought centuries of intense Anglo-French rivalry had finally been put to one side.

But the demands tabled by Paris officials to return the historic artifact to England after more than 900 years risked reigniting tensions.

French president Emmanuel Macron last month announced that the iconic depiction of the 1066 Norman Conquest and the Battle of Hastings would be loaned to the British Museum next year.

He originally floated the idea at a summit with former prime minister Theresa May in 2018 but it was met with fierce pushback from French cultural officials.

Discussions only restarted earlier this year but both sides were still at odds over the conditions to loan Britain the 70-metre-long work, according to the Financial Times.

France first looked at swapping the Rosetta Stone for the multicoloured wool embroidery and asked for its citizens to be allowed to see the tapestry for free at the British Museum, those briefed on the talks claimed.

When France finally agreed to loan Britain the Bayeux Tapestry, many thought centuries of intense Anglo-French rivalry had finally been put to one side

But the demands tabled by Paris officials to return the historic artifact to England after more than 900 years risked reigniting tensions

French president Emmanuel Macron last month announced that the iconic depiction of the 1066 Norman Conquest and the Battle of Hastings would be loaned to the British Museum next year

France first looked at swapping the Rosetta Stone for the multicoloured wool embroidery and asked for its citizens to be allowed to see the tapestry for free at the British Museum

UK culture minister Sir Chris Bryant met French culture minister Rachida Dati in Cannes in May where she made it clear that while France was prepared to loan the tapestry, it wanted treasures previously unseen in their country to go the other way.

It felt a bit like they were googling all the most famous things in the British Museum, one British official told the Financial Times.

They were originally thinking of the Rosetta Stone. That was complicated by the fact that the French found it and we took it off them.

The Rosetta Stone is the most visited object in the British Musuem and was initially found by Napoleons soldiers in 1799 before it was taken by Britain in 1801 following his defeat.

Ms Dati then proposed exchanging the tapestry with the Sutton Hoo treasures which were discovered as part of a seventh century Anglo-Saxon ship burial in Suffolk in 1939.

The Bayeux Tapestry, which is more than 900-years-old, depicts the battle which saw William The Conqueror (pictured) take the English throne from Harold Godwinson

The tapestry depicts the Battle of Hastings and is rich in detail, with Latin labels to narrate key figures including King Harold who was mythically killed with an arrow to his eye (pictured)

The piece was likely made by English embroiderers and was created to celebrate the victory of the invading William I

The British Museum also offered the Lewis Chessmen, medieval chess pieces discovered in 1831 on the Isle of Lewis, to museums in France with other artifacts from Wales and Northern Ireland to be added.

While talks progressed in complete secrecy with the aim of reaching an agreement before Mr Macrons state visit to the UK in July, there was another sticking point.

French officials were determined to get free admission for French citizens to see the Bayeux Tapestry.

That was never going to happen, another UK official said. It was a try-on. Both sides later agreed to get as many kids in to see the historic artifect as possible.

But Paris also allegedly wanted the UK to pay for both moving the tapestry from Bayeux to London and for shipping its goods to museums in Normandy.

That was also a non-starter, a British source familiar with the talks added.

The Sutton Hoo treasures, discovered as part of a seventh century Anglo-Saxon ship burial in Suffolk in 1939, provide insight into England during the period before the Norman Conquest

A picture of the original dig which led to the discovery of the Sutton Hoo ship burial - the original ship had largely decayed, leaving an imprint of it in the mud

Transporting the tapestry to the UK is expected to cost millions of euros and is likely set to be moved by truck to avoid any damage.

When it finally arrives at the British Museum it wont be hung over fears it will crease, stretch or tear but will instead be displayed lying on long inclined tables.

The 70-metre-long work depicts the battle which saw William The Conqueror take the English throne from Harold Godwinson and become the first Norman king of England.

It is widely accepted to have been made in England during the 11th century and was likely to have been commissioned by Bishop Odo Of Bayeux.

The artwork has been on display in various locations across France during its history, and in 1983 was moved to the Bayeux Museum in Normandy where it attracts 400,000 visitors per year.

It is expected to generate huge interest when it goes on display at the British Museum in September 2026 with hopes it could eclipse the 1.7 million visitors who went to see the Treasures of Tutankhamun exhibition of 1972.
Labour councillor Ricky Jones told a jury he 'wasn't thinking' when he told the crowd to 'cut [the] throats' of far-right protesters at an anti-racism protest.

Jones, 58, who is on trial for encouraging violent disorder, attended a counter-demonstration on Hoe Street, Walthamstow, on August 7, 2024, in response to anti-migrant rallies sparked by the murders of three young girls in Southport.

Ellie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice Da Silva Aguiar, nine, were killed by Axel Rudakubana, who also injured several children and adults at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29, 2024.

The incident sparked riots nationwide after misinformation spread online that killer, Rudakubana, was a Muslim asylum seeker who had recently arrived in Britain on a small boat.

Last August, a far-right march was scheduled to happen outside Waltham Forest Immigration Bureau, and as a response, a counter demonstration had been organised nearby, Snaresbrook Crown Court was told.

No far-right demonstrators turned up to the immigration centre, but, the counter demonstration went ahead.

That day, wearing a black polo top and surrounded by cheering supporters, the councillor said: 'You've got women and children using these trains during the summer holidays. They don't give a s*** about who they hurt.

'They are disgusting Nazi fascists. We need to cut all their throats and get rid of them all.' He also drew his finger across his throat as he spoke to the crowd.

Labour councillor Ricky Jones told a jury he 'wasn't thinking' when he called for a crowd to 'cut [the] throats' of far-right protesters at an anti-racism protest

Jones is pictured speaking at a counter protest in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, on August 7 last year

After videos of the alleged incident circulated online, the councillor, who had represented Dartford since 2019, was suspended. He was also arrested and interviewed at Brixton Police Station on August 8.

Jones denies the charge of encouraging violence, maintaining he said the remarks in the 'heat of the moment' and that they were not intended to be 'taken literally'.

He told the court his comment did not refer to far-right protesters involved in riots at the time, but to those who had reportedly left National Front stickers on a train with razor blades hidden behind them.

Jones, who at the time worked as an official for the Transport Salaried Staff's Association (TSSA) union, later sent an edited version of his speech video to union members, the court heard.

Asked by his defence barrister, Hossein Zahir KC, why he edited the video, Jones replied: 'When I had time to view the footage after the demonstration, I was shocked at what I had actually said.

'I was horrified. Under no circumstances did I want to portray that to anybody, so I edited that last bit out.'

The unedited video was eventually posted on social media platform X, where it attracted millions of views, the trial heard.

Jones told jurors he felt 'very emotional and very upset' after receiving pictures, the day before the rally, of National Front stickers that had been left on a train, which had razor blades hidden behind them.

Suspended Labour councillor Ricky Jones leaves Snaresbrook Crown Court, east London, on August 12

He was later filmed shouting into a microphone: 'They are disgusting Nazi fascists. We need to cut their throats and get rid of them' whilst making a slashing gesture across his neck

Riot police hold back protesters after disorder broke out in Southport on July 30 - a day after the knife attack

Protesters spray fire extinguishers at riot police officers during scenes of unrest in Sunderland on August 2

Protesters near a burning police vehicle in Southport on July 30, 2024

He had also received reports from union members that more razor blades had been found stuck between seats, Jones added.

'I was very concerned about what had happened on the train. I was thinking, this [the speech] is a good opportunity to raise what happened.'

The father-of-four described the mood in the crowd at the time as 'happy and joyful', adding: 'There clearly wasn't any upset or anger from any people in that scene, because they clearly knew it was about what happened on the train.'

Prosecutor Ben Holt, cross-examining, told the defendant: 'Your words about slitting people's throats were not cheerful or happy.'

Jones replied: 'I totally agree, I'm ashamed.'

The defendant however denied intending to encourage violence towards far-right protesters.

'What violence could have anyone caused to those people in the train?' Jones said. 'It was nonsensical - I didn't believe there was a risk.'

Jones, of Dartford, denies one count of encouraging violent disorder.

The trial continues.
Donald Trump ripped into one of his longtime Democratic opponents claiming he leaked classified information to damage him, and he wants the Department of Justice to investigate.

'Just out, irrefutable proof that Adam Shifty Schiff 'approved plan to leak classified information to damage Donald Trump,'' the president wrote on Truth Social Wednesday.

He was reacting to reports about a whistleblower alleging that California Sen. Adam Schiff hatched a plan to leak classified intelligence to damage Trump shortly after he first took office in 2017.

The whistleblower claims Schiff personally authorized a plan to selectively leak damaging information about Trump to the media during the FBI's investigation into the president's possible ties to Russia.

Later in the day, at an event at the Kennedy Center, the president slammed Schiff again.

'I told him (Putin), you know, they got this phony investigation going on. Russia, Russia, Russia. Totally phony, created by Adam Schiff,' the 79-year-old recounted.

'Shifty Schiff and Hillary Clinton and the whole group of them ... made it very dangerous for our country,' the president continued.

'I'm looking at Pam, because I hope something's going to be done about it,' he added. 'Now we've learned all the stuff that's come out over the last two months is incredible, through intelligence. And hopefully something's gonna happen with it.'

President Donald Trump suggested he wants Attorney Pam Bondi to look into whether California Sen. Adam Schiff broke the law by intentionally leaking classified information about the FBI's 2017 Russia collusion investigation

Schiff personally approved a plan to selectively leak information on the FBI's probe, a whistleblower told the FBI

A spokesperson for Schiff hit back at the allegations in a statement to the Daily Mail.

'Kash Patel's latest smear against Senator Schiff is absolutely and categorically false, and is just the latest in a series of defamatory attacks from the President and his allies meant to distract from their plummeting poll numbers and the Epstein files scandal,' they said.

'These baseless smears are based on allegations that were found to be not reliable, not credible, and unsubstantiated from a disgruntled former staffer who was fired by the House Intelligence Committee for cause in early 2017, including for harassment and potentially compromising activity on official travel for the Committee.'

New testimony revealed in FBI documents shows that a career Democrat intelligence official believed Schiff's leaking to the press was 'illegal' and 'treasonous,' according to documents first reported by Just the News.

'When working in this capacity, [redacted staffer's name] was called to an all-staff meeting by SCHIFF,' the FBI report said.

'In this meeting, Schiff stated the group would leak classified information which was derogatory to President of the United States Donald J. Trump. Schiff stated the information would be used to indict President Trump.'

The whistleblower gave the testimony at the FBI's St. Louis field office in 2023.

However, according to the outlet, the whistleblower had told FBI officials in Washington as early as 2017 about Schiff's plot.

Schiff served as the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee when he crafted the plan to target Trump with leaks about the FBI's investigation. Schiff hoped the leaks would cause Trump to face legal ramifications, the whistleblower said

The whistleblower reportedly said during the meeting, 'this would be illegal and, upon hearing his concerns, unnamed members of the meeting reassured that they would not be caught leaking classified information,' the report states.

According to the testimony, Schiff believed he would be saved from prosecution due to the Constitution's speech and debate clause.

The statute protects members of Congress from legal action for actions taken during their legislative work.

It is unclear whether Attorney General Pam Bondi is working on charges related to Schiff's plan to leak classified material.

Meanwhile, the DOJ is investigating Schiff for mortgage fraud allegations after Trump accused the senator of improper filings, allegations Schiff has said are 'political retaliation.'

Bondi has appointed Ed Martin, the former interim US District Attorney for Washington, DC, as 'special attorney' to probe Schiff and others.
A heavily pregnant woman has been left traumatised after her beloved dog was mauled to death in front of her by an out-of-control hound.

Charlotte Sipson was walking her pet, a Havanese called Max, with a friend on Bristol's Harbourside when the horror unfolded.

Her dog was suddenly set upon by a much larger animal, which was off its lead with no owner in sight.

After Charlotte and her friend, who had a 14-month-old child with her, eventually managed to free Max from the attacking dog's jaws, it began circling some children nearby.

The attacking dog's owner, who was described as 'heavily tattooed' and topless, eventually emerged but ran off with the animal without saying anything or apologising to Charlotte.

Charlotte, who is due to give birth in November, rushed Max to a vets in Imperial Park, Hartcliffe, but he was dead by the time they arrived from a suspected punctured lung.

The shocking incident has left Charlotte's fiance, Joe McKenna, not only concerned about her but also about the impact the attack may have had on their unborn baby.

'She's in bits,' Joe said. 'It was highly traumatic, and obviously, I'm nervous because of the stress on the baby. For us it's been quite a big emotional toll.'

A heavily-pregnant woman was left traumatised after her beloved pet was mauled to death in front of her by an out of control dog. Charlotte Sipson (pictured right) was walking her Havanese dog, Max (centre), with a friend when the horror unfolded

Charlotte's dog (pictured) was suddenly attacked by a much larger animal, which was off its lead with no owner in sight

Charlotte, who is due to give birth in November, rushed Max to a vets in Imperial Park, Hartcliffe, but he was dead by the time they arrived from a suspected punctured lung

Joe said both he and Charlotte were heartbroken their child would never get to meet Max, who was particularly vulnerable as he was 11 years old and blind as well as much smaller than his aggressor.

'He was the cutest dog, like butter wouldn't melt,' Joe said.

The exact breed of the guilty animal is not known, but Joe described it as grey, short-haired and 'massively muscly'.

While Joe couldn't be sure, he said the dog resembled an XL Bully, a breed banned in the UK which has been responsible for fatal attacks on humans, including the horrific death of 19-year-old Morgan Dorsett in Withywood in February 2025.

With the dog who killed Max apparently still on the loose, Joe said he was worried the next incident it was involved in could be even worse, especially with so many children enjoying the sun during their summer holidays.

'I think the main thing we're scared about is this happening to other people or children,' he said. 'Quite frankly it's a danger to the public.'

Joe said both he and Charlotte were heartbroken their child would never get to meet Max, who was particularly vulnerable as he was 11-years-old and blind as well as much smaller than his aggressor

The shocking incident has left Charlotte's fiance Joe McKenna (pictured right) not only concerned about her but also about the impact the attack may have had on their unborn baby

'It's the summer holidays, the kids are everywhere. It's been the Balloon Fiesta, so it was super busy and this guy's still out there with this dog, and that scares me.'

Joe and Charlotte reported the incident to Avon & Somerset Police and Bristol City Council.

A police spokesperson confirmed they were investigating the incident.

'On Saturday morning we received a report that a dog had been attacked by a grey pitbull-type dog at about 4pm the previous day (Friday 8 August) in Hanover Place,' the spokesperson said.

'Sadly, the dog died of its injuries shortly after the incident. No person was injured.'

'The owner of the other dog was reported to have left the scene with the dog after the incident. They are described as white, aged in their 30s, heavily tattooed and about 5ft 9ins tall.'

'Our investigation is under way, and we would ask anyone with any information to call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5225226207.'
Nine workers were killed and seven were injured after an explosion tore through an explosives factory in Brazil on Tuesday.

The incident took place at a warehouse operated by Enaex Brasil in Quatro Barras, a city in the southern state of Parana, about 620 miles southwest of Rio de Janeiro.

The Parana Civil Police reviewed surveillance video that showed the victims were preparing for a shift change and were about to pray as group just moments before the massive blast at 5:50 am local time.

'The nine arrive for work, put on their safety equipment, and gather there to say a prayer,' police chief Gessica Andrade told Brazilian news outlet G1.

'That's when the image is cut off and the explosion occurs. So, from what we can analyze, they weren't handling any explosives at that moment.'

The security camera footage, which will not be released by the police, also showed that the workers were not handling explosives.

Parana Public Safety secretary, Hudson Texeira, told reporters on Wednesday that the bodies of the nine victims were charred and unrecognizable, and that it will take about 30 days to identify them via DNA testing.

'We are doing our best, our laboratories are working with the material that was collected from the family members,' he said.

Firefighters search the grounds of an Enaex Brasil mining factory in the southern city of Quatro Barras, where nine workers were killed and seven were injured on Tuesday

Smoke rises from the Enaex Brasil factory, where an explosion tore through a building on Tuesday. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blast that left nine workers dead and seven injured

'I don't have a specific date to give, I don't rule out the possibility of asking another state for help to complete this as quickly as possible, but I assume that in less than a month we won't be able to finish these reports.'

Enaex Brasil identified the victims as Camila Pinheiro; Cleberson Correa; Eduardo de Paula; Francieli de Oliveira; Jessica Pires; Marcio de Andrade; Pablo dos Santos; Roberto Kuhnen; and Simeon Machado.

Pinheiro began working at the factory in 2024 after his mother, who is also employed there, recommended her.

De Paula was a married and a father to three children. De Andrade was the pastor of his local evangelical church and leaves behind a wife and a six-year-old daughter.

'The company values life as its primary value and is internationally recognized for its safety practices in the manufacture of civilian explosives, with procedures that go beyond regulatory requirements,' Enaex Brasil said in a statement.

'The company is working to implement a contingency plan based on ensuring proper care for the victims and their families, to whom we express our sincere condolences and offer our solidarity to all those involved in this tragedy.'

Military Fire Department chief, Antonio Lino, said that the material that generated the explosion could cause significant destruction and was littered throughout the site.

Camila Pinheiro was among the nine factory workers who were killed in the massive blast

Factory worker Marco de Andrade was killed in a factory explosion in Quatro Barras, Brazil on Tuesday

Roberto Kuhnen, one of the nine workers died in the explosion, lived in the central Parana city of Pitanga

Simeao Pires Machado leaves a wife and two children, ages 7 and 9

The fire department had to suspend the search for at least eight missing victims following Tuesday morning's massive blast at a mining factory in Quatro Barras, Brazil

First responders initiated a search for victims on Tuesday afternoon but suspended it over fears of additional explosions.

The factory operates 24 hours a day and manufactures different types of explosives, including 'busters' which are required for rock blasting.

The explosion caused damage to homes in seven other cities.

The Parana Civil Police and the Parana Public Ministry of Labor are leading the investigation.
A 13-year-old boy from Missouri who miraculously survived a 240-foot fall and spent days without food or water at the bottom of a ravine has now woken up from his 11-day coma.

Dakota 'Cody' Trenkle Jr. was rushed to hospital and placed in a medically-induced coma after being found with serious injuries two weeks ago.

Cody was first reported missing on July 27 near Goose Creek Lake after he left home on his skateboard to visit a friend's house. When he never arrived, his family became worried and got local law enforcement involved.

A search party was launched and for over 80 hours volunteers, family members and members of the St Francois County Sheriff's Department searched the dense woods and steep ravines for the boy.

On July 30, Cody's brother found his skateboard and a K-9 named Daryl was able to track the scent to a 240-foot elevation drop.

Cody was found alive at the bottom of the drop, lying in a foot of water. He had been exposed to the scorching July sun without food or water for four days.

The 13-year-old had severe brain bleeding, pneumonia and deep wounds from being exposed to the elements.

He was airlifted to a children's hospital in St Louis and placed in the pediatric ICU, where doctors kept him sedated and on a ventilator for over a week.

A 13-year-old boy from Missouri who miraculously survived a 240-foot fall and spent days without food or water at the bottom of a ravine

While Cody has made immense progress, he has a long road ahead of him

He was discovered lying in approximately one foot of water at the bottom of a steep ravine, which featured a 240-foot elevation drop

According to Cody's mom, Stephanie Neely, he started showing signs of waking up on Friday when he shocked his physical therapist by throwing a ball.

By Saturday, he was able to sign 'I love you' to his mom, something the family had done to each other since he was little.

Neely said this was the moment she knew her son was going to be okay. 'I cried. I started bawling,' she told 5 On Your Side.

'When I asked him if he knew this was mommy, he nodded yes. I told him, "I love you," and he showed me the sign. That moment was forever monumental for me. That's when I knew we were on a good road,' Neely said.

'That was the sign I really needed I could finally take a deep breath and finally got some sleep that night because, in my mom heart, I knew he was going to be okay,' she continued.

On Sunday, Cody passed a breathing trial and doctors took him off the ventilator. Now he's alert, speaking softly and beginning his physical therapy journey - despite being in extreme pain.

The first thing that Cody asked for when he woke up was 'a Coke from McDonald's,' according to his mother.

'We waited an hour, but he got his Coke,' she said.

On July 30, Cody's brother found his skateboard and a K-9 named Daryl (pictured with the St Francois County Sheriff's Department) was able to track the scent to a 240-foot drop

The first thing that Cody asked for when he woke up was 'a Coke from McDonald's,' according to his mother

Cody was first reported missing on July 27 near Goose Creek Lake after h e had left home on his skateboard to visit a friend's house

While Cody has made immense progress, he has a long road ahead of him.

He remains in the ICU in critical condition and is still battling infections and weakness after two weeks of being in a hospital bed.

When Cody is stable, he will be transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation center for a long stint of therapy.

'It's still going to be a long process,' Neely said. 'But were on the right path now, and I just want everyone to keep their thoughts and prayers with him. Hes a miracle.'

The family have set up a GoFundMe to raise money for Cody's medical bills and recovery costs.
A transgender Met Police volunteer had daily video chats with their alleged rape victim before sexually assaulting her at the age of 12, a court has heard.

James Bubb, who now identifies as a woman named Gwyn Samuels, regularly spoke to the girl over text and video call before the alleged attack, Amersham Law Courts was told.

The court heard the pair met on video chat site Omegle in 2018, when the complainant was 12 years old and the defendant was around 21.

They then met in person for the first time at a Christian festival a few months later, jurors were told.

Of their first encounter in person, Adrian Amer, defending, asked: 'At the time of meeting, did you believe you were in a relationship?'

Giving evidence, the witness, who cannot be named for legal reasons, replied: 'Yes I did, yes.'

Mr Amer asked: 'What sort of relationship?'

'An emotional, romantic relationship,' the witness said, adding that she believed the defendant was her 'boyfriend'.

Gwyn Samuels, who was born a man named James Bubb, regularly spoke to the girl over text and video call before the alleged attack, Amersham Law Courts was told

Court artist drawing by Elizabeth Cook of former Metropolitan Police Service Special sergeant Gwyn Samuels, appearing at Amersham Crown Court, Buckinghamshire

The alleged victim said that at the time, the pair would speak every day, including on video call.

'He'd tell me that he loved me, "good night", every day,' she added.

Of this first meeting, the witness said that although they did not tell the defendant their age, it would have been 'evident'.

She said: 'I didn't sound or look like a 17-year-old, I looked probably younger than I was.'

'I was dressing as a child,' she continued, and added that she had sent the defendant a photo of herself wearing a My Little Pony t-shirt.

'I was acting like a child, I was a child,' she said.

The witness said Bubb assaulted her on Shepherd's Bush Green while she was visiting London with her parents to celebrate her 13th birthday.

Of this alleged incident in 2019, Mr Amer asked the witness why she did not leave if she was uncomfortable.

'He was my boyfriend,' she replied.

'But he wasn't your boyfriend, was he?' Mr Amer said.

'No, now I recognise him to be my abuser,' the witness said.

Bubb's trial is taking place at Amersham Law Courts (pictured) in Buckinghamshire

'I didn't feel that I had any autonomy,' she added.

'I didn't have an understanding of consent.'

She continued: 'I firmly believed that James and I were in a mutual loving relationship and that's what girlfriends and boyfriends do.

'I was scared to speak out, I didn't realise I could,' she added.

On another occasion at Shepherd's Bush, the witness said Bubb had 'scoped out the area' and told her there was 'no CCTV', before asking her to remove her tights and sexually assaulting her.

The alleged victim said she was later raped by the defendant at Bubb's home in Harrow, London, when she was 13 years old.

She told the jury the volunteer officer was 'choking' and 'restraining' her during the attack and that she had asked them to stop.

'It's safe to say I was scared,' she added.

The defendant dabbed their eyes and shook their head at points while the witness was giving evidence.

The 27-year-old has denied one count of rape in relation to one complainant, and two counts of rape, two counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of assault of a child under 13 by penetration, one count of rape of a child under 13 and one count of assault by penetration in relation to the other complainant.

A not guilty verdict on one of the rape charges in relation to the second complainant was returned on Wednesday after the prosecution offered no evidence.

All accusations are alleged to have taken place between January 1, 2018 to April 2, 2024.

The defendant, from Chesham, Buckinghamshire, denies all charges and the trial continues.
Donald Trump has warned Vladimir Putin 'there will be very severe consequences' if Russia does not agree to stop the war in Ukraine after their meeting on Friday.

The US President took a tougher tone against the dictator today saying he was yet to be convinced he would be able to persuade Putin to stop killing civilians.

European leaders also said Mr Trump had agreed to make an immediate ceasefire at the start of negotiations a priority - something that will be painful for Moscow which is gaining territory by the day.

In more encouraging news for Ukraine, the US President said tomorrow is only 'setting the table' for a second meeting where Volodymyr Zelensky will be present.

Mr Trump cautioned that if he 'doesn't get the answers' he needs on Friday 'then we're not going to have a second meeting'.

Asked if Russia will face consequences in that scenario, Mr Trump said: 'Yes, they will. There will be consequences.'

Asked if that would be sanctions or tariffs, Trump said: 'I don't have to say. There will be very severe consequences.'

But he hoped that there would be a 'quick second meeting' following the summit between Putin, Zelensky 'and myself if they'd like to have me there'.

The US President took a tougher tone against the dictator today saying he was yet to be convinced he would be able to persuade Putin to stop killing civilians

Trump said he hoped that there would be a 'quick second meeting' following the summit between Putin, Zelensky 'and myself if they'd like to have me there'

In more encouraging news for Ukraine, the US President said tomorrow is only 'setting the table' for a second meeting where Volodymyr Zelensky will be present

Ukrainian drones hit Rosneft oil depot in Sochi, sparking massive fire and explosions near airport on August 3, 2025

Describing the purpose of Alaska, Mr Trump said it was 'to find out where we are and what we are doing' before a 'more productive meeting' with Ukraine present.

It is hoped that this second summit would take place in a neutral European country.

Today it emerged Mr Trump is planning to offer Putin access to rare earth minerals to incentivise him to end the war including opening up Alaska's natural resources to Moscow and lifting some sanctions.

It may also include giving Russia access to the rare earth minerals in the Ukrainian territories under their occupation, the Telegraph reported.

JD Vance today said the US President had vowed that they would 'bring peace to Europe' in a speech at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.

He channelled the spirit of how America and Britain had brought peace by victory in World War Two after spending the week with Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House in Kent.

Describing what he and Mr Lammy had discussed, the Vice President said: 'What we did is we worked on one of our most important shared security goals in Europe, which is the end of the war between Russia and Ukraine.

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JD Vance today said the US President had vowed that they would 'bring peace to Europe' in a speech at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire

Mr Zelensky, who dialled in from Berlin where he was meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, described the talks as 'constructive and good'

'The President of the United States came in six months ago, and I just talked to him right before I came on the stage, and he said very simply that we are going to make it our mission as an administration to bring peace to Europe once again.'

It marked a successful day of European diplomacy after Mr Trump's deeply concerning press conference on Monday where he appeared to blame Mr Zelensky for the war and take a softer stance against Putin.

EU leaders scrambled to hold a virtual summit with the US President and the Ukrainian leader today which Mr Trump said he 'would rate a 10'.

Afterwards Mr Zelensky, who dialled in from Berlin where he was meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, described the talks as 'constructive and good'.

He said that 'Trump supported us today' and that leaders around the world are unified towards reaching 'peace in Ukraine'.

Mr Zelensky also warned leaders that Putin 'is bluffing' that sanctions 'do not matter to him and are ineffective' as they are in fact 'hitting Russia's war economy hard'.

Chancellor Merz reiterated to Mr Trump that they must apply more 'pressure' on Putin if there is no movement towards peace.

French President Emmanuel Macron (left) speaks by video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (left, onscreen) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) on Wednesday. The leaders also had a joint call with President Donald Trump

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He said the US president 'knows this position and agrees with it'. Chancellor Merz also stressed that a ceasefire must come at the beginning of negotiations - and that Mr Trump 'also wants to make this one of his priorities'.

Sir Keir Starmer, who was also present on the call, said the 'coalition of the willing' is ready to deploy a 'reassurance force' when the moment arises.

In more encouraging signs, Mr Vance joined a call for the coalition of the willing for the first time today, dialling in from RAF Fairford before Mr Trump also joined.

It marks a significant turn around since the Vice President disparagingly dismissed the peacekeeping proposal in March as '20,000 troops from some random country that hasn't fought a war in 30 or 40 years'.

Sir Keir said today: 'For three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on and we haven't got anywhere near the prospect of actually a viable solution, a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire - and now we do have that chance because of the work that the president has put in.'
The number of airline passengers arriving into ailing Las Vegas' main airport will continue to plummet as Canadians shun Sin City, a new report warns.

Capacity rates at the gambling hotspot's Harry Reid International Airport are forecast to drop dramatically in the second half of 2025, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

The grim outlook is due to a decline in visitors from Canada, along with maintenance issues with the airport's second largest airline, experts said.

They warned the number of inbound passengers will plunge to around 95,000 seats per day for the rest of the year.

The worrying prediction represents a 2.3 percent fall from 2024 numbers, according to the report by Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting, which commissioned by the city's tourism board.

The decline is largely being fueled by a sharp 18.5 percent drop-off in traffic from Canada which typically comprises the largest share of international visitors to the Nevada city, per the Las Vegas Review Journal.

The number of Canadian passengers flying to Las Vegas fell to an average of 2,412 per day this year, according to the report.

The loss of Canadian tourists has cancelled out gains from other continents, including a 31.7 percent increase in airline capacity from Asia and a 21.6 percent increase jump from Europe excluding the United Kingdom.

Las Vegas's sharp decline in tourism appears set to continue as its major airport hub, Harry Reid International Airport (pictured), has prepared for a staggering drop in visitor numbers to continue for the rest of the year

The shock report cemented a steep decline in tourism to Las Vegas, with previous statistics from April showing it was losing upwards of 300,000 visitors per month since the start of 2025.

The loss in tourism was blamed by some on the election of Donald Trump to the presidency in January and his subsequent jibes at Canada.

Trump quickly launched a hostile attack on the country and threatened to make it America's '51st state' if it did not submit to his tariff demands.

With Canadians making up a large part of all tourism to Sin City, Trump's antagonism of its residents may have played a role.

As the downward trend was beginning to snowball in February, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Steve Hill told the Journal that he was hearing from many angry Canadians about the president.

'There's an awful lot of the anecdotal conversation around Canadians being angry and upset about tariffs and talk around annexing the country,' he said.

'Weve seen consumer confidence numbers drop pretty significantly over the past couple of months.'

The loss in tourism in Las Vegas throughout 2025 was blamed by some on the election of Donald Trump to the presidency in January, as he has routinely antagonized Canadians,who made up most of the

Las Vegas has seen a staggering decline in tourism this year, and a new report found that capacity at its major airport is expected to fall by around 95,000 plane seats a day in the second half of 2025

In May, the World Travel & Tourism Council also reported that in its forecasts for 2025, the US was set to lose $12.5 billion in international visitor spending.

'While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the closed sign,' Julia Simpson, the councils president and CEO, said in a news release at the time.

Another reason for the recent drop in Las Vegas is due to a maintenance issue with Spirit Airlines, the second busiest carrier at Reid International Airport.

The maintenance issues have grounded 50 planes in Spirit's fleet, which has significantly reduced its capacity, according to Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting senior director Joel Van Over.

'They have an issue with their (jet) engines,' Van Over said.

'They have to pull that engine off the plane, fix the cracks, put it back on the plane, and that whole process takes about 300 days.

'So obviously they cant just do a plane a year because it would take them 100 years to get that done.'
Ready for another round of failure and fake fun from Meghan Markle?

Or should we call her Meghan Sussex?

On Tuesday, the Duchess dropped the new trailer for Part 2 (really, Season 1 broken up, but that's how it's being sold to us) of her lifestyle/hosting/showing-off Netflix show, With Love, Meghan.

The comments under her Instagram post were turned off  curious for a woman who seems so certain that she's deserving of endless applause and adulation.

Ever untethered from reality, Meghan is treating this as a win, even as Netflix has just declined to renew her and Harry's $100 million deal.

Instead, the Sussexes now have a 'first look' deal with the streamer  which means very little. If they have a pitch, it goes to Netflix first. That's it.

But as with all things Sussex, losses are spun into wins, and the inglorious drop of this trailer  in the middle of the day on Tuesday, with little fanfare, and an August 26 premiere date rather than a prominent fall debut  says just how little faith Netflix seems to have in this iteration.

'The best moments are made to be shared,' Meghan wrote in her post.

Some Netflix execs would doubtless disagree.

Ready for another round of failure and fake fun from Meghan Markle? Or should we call her Meghan Sussex?

In fact, a source told the Daily Mail that management is still 'upset' that Harry's memoir Spare 'undercut' what they clearly thought was exclusive to their royal-bashing docuseries.

'The $100 million deal has been an expensive failure for Netflix, however they want to dress it up,' the source said.

Of course it has!

The first installment of With Love, Meghan, which premiered in March, ranked 383 in Netflix's global viewing, and amassed only 5.3 million views between January and June. A mere two minutes is what Netflix counts as a 'view'.

Her most famous guest thus far has been Mindy Kaling, who Meghan snapped at for calling her 'Meghan Markle'.

'It's so funny that you keep saying Meghan Markle,' she said, her shoulders tensing and voice tightening. 'You know I'm Sussex now.'

You could see the light fade from Kaling's eyes in that moment. It was a rude, imperious, unnecessary comment  and Meghan had the temerity to correct her guest! What a faux pas!

But Meghan Markle thinks she should be teaching us the finer points of etiquette.

Yes, look to her  a woman who does not speak to her family of origin save her mother, and who has helped her husband sever ties to his own family  to learn how to make family, friends, neighbors and strangers feel comfortable in one's home.

Who better? Truly.

Now to Netflix's description of Season 2, or Part 2 as I call it: 'Meghan returns with a fun and heartwarming new season, welcoming celebrity chefs, talented artists and beloved friends for hands-on adventures filled with laughter and discovery.'

Beloved friends? As I have previously written, Meghan allegedly tried to get Dolly Parton to appear on With Love, and Dolly declined.

'Her team was livid,' royal reporter Kinsey Schofield told me. 'They don't want to risk Dolly's epic popularity by associating with Meghan Markle.'

Instead, we get the return of Daniel the make-up artist; various dubious figures in the self-help space, including the baby-voiced Jamie Kern Lima; and Chrissy Teigen, the talent-free wife of John Legend who was nearly cancelled for harassing the young starlet Courtney Stodden online.

A sample of Teigen's tweets to Stodden:

'Curvy bod NEVER ceases to make me laugh. Thank you @courtneystodden you are truly a twitter dream.'

'I hate you.'

'What drug makes you do that with your mouth? Asking for a friend who really wants to know how to look like an idiot. Thanks.'

'My Friday fantasy: you. Dirt nap. Mmmmmm baby'.

Stodden was 16 years old at the time.

'I did actually almost succeed at committing suicide because of  it was a huge part of it. I had a suicide letter written,' Stodden later said of the cyberbullying. 'My last thought was, you know, maybe I don't deserve to be here when people that high up are telling me I don't deserve to be.'

And Meghan thought Teigen was the perfect person to invite into her borrowed kitchen, to spread love, joy and generosity!

Sure, Teigen subsequently apologized. But lest we forget that Meghan spearheaded her own anti-cyberbullying campaign.

The hypocrisy!

Chrissy Teigen, the talent-free wife of John Legend, was nearly cancelled for harassing the young starlet Courtney Stodden online

Sure, Teigen subsequently apologized. But lest we forget that Meghan spearheaded her own anti-cyberbullying campaign

This new installment is a retread of the first: Old-time Top 40 hits, Meghan painting, gift wrapping, baking, clapping her hands and uttering such inanities as:

'I love the idea of spending time together.'

'Let's get creative and learn something new.'

'There are easy ways to show up lovingly.'

Sure! Just ask the British Royal Family.

Meghan  much as Sarah Jessica Parker before her  is refusing to take the rejection slip from the C-suite and the culture.

Next up: A special edition titled, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, scheduled for this December  surely close to when the Princess of Wales holds her annual Together at Christmas concert at Westminster Abbey.

That announcement came not from Netflix but via Meghan and Harry's Archewell Productions.

'Join Meghan in Montecito for a magical holiday celebration,' the statement read.

Harry wasn't even mentioned! Then again, it's very on-brand for Meghan: Tout the sacred bonds of family while ignoring the bulk of one's own.

A domestic goddess, indeed.
A Texas judge broke the law after granting bond for a suspect charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon.

Harris County's 351st Criminal District Court Judge Natalia Cornelio decided to let Jared Wilson, who pleaded guilty to the violent charge, walk on a person recognizance bond.

Her decision went directly against Texas Senate Bill 6, or the Damon Allen Act, which was signed into law in 2021 by Governor Greg Abbott.

The legislation specifically targets bail proceedings for criminals accused of offenses, including aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, and other violent crimes.

It is unclear why she chose to set Wilson free, but since he's been out on deferred probation, the suspect racked up two more felony charges, according to court documents reviewed by Fox26.

Wilson has been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, a machine gun, and tampering with evidence, all of which violate his probation.

This is not Cornelio's first time defying the court of law after prosecutors said she secretly arranged a procedure for a death row inmate last year.

The judge allegedly allowed Ronald Lee Haskell - a convicted criminal who murdered six family members, including four children, in 2014 - to have an MRI at a private medical facility, The Texan reported.

Harris County's 351st Criminal District Court Judge Natalia Cornelio let Jared Wilson walk on a person recognizance bond - a decision that goes directly against Texas Senate Bill 6

Wilson pleaded guilty to the violent crime. Since he's been out on bond, he's been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, a machine gun, and tampering with evidence

The sealed orders revealed that Cornelio allegedly had Haskell transported from a high-security unit to a doctor's office on July 30.

Photos submitted to the Harris County District Attorneys Office showed Haskell entering a waiting room with regular civilians, the outlet reported.

The DA's office was only made aware of the alleged transport after one of Haskell's surviving victims notified the state's automatic victim notification system.

A formal complaint was then filed against Cornelio with the State Commission on Judicial Conduct. She was also removed from Haskell's case.

Her latest decision could see Cornelio stand before the State Commission on Judicial Conduct again, according to Criminal District Court Judge Chuck Silverman.

Silverman, who cannot speak on a specific case or judge, told Fox26: 'Hypothetically, in the event you feel a judge has abused his or her discretion or hasn't followed the law, you can file a complaint with the judicial commission and proceed that way.'

Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers of Houston agreed that what she did is a big 'no no.'

'That's a no, no. Because we enacted a law, better known as Senate Bill 6, that eliminated most violent crimes, including aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, from being eligible for a PR bond,' Kahan said.

Last year Cornelio allegedly arranged for convicted killer Ronald Lee Haskell, who is on death row, to go to a doctor's office for an MRI. (Pictured: Haskell during his sentencing hearing in 2019)

Cornelio is a bilingual Mexican-American who 'became a lawyer to make a difference, and to help ensure that all of our communities have equal access to and protection of our laws'

'You can't be doing this. It's a violation of the statute. You can't give a PR bond, bottom line, to anyone for a charge of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, but it happened.'

Daily Mail contacted Cornelio and Harris County Criminal Justice Center for comment on her decision.

Cornelio, who also goes by 'Nata,' is a bilingual Mexican-American who 'became a lawyer to make a difference, and to help ensure that all of our communities have equal access to and protection of our laws,' according to her re-election website.

Throughout her career, Cornelio said she has witnessed 'first-hand that our lower income communities and our communities of color are disproportionately impacted by our justice system and regularly represented Spanish-speaking clients who otherwise would not have had an attorney who spoke their language.'

She lives in Houston with her husband and dog named 'Biggie Smalls.' Cornelio attended New York University and the University of Chicago Law School.
The Edinburgh Fringe venue which plans to ban Kate Forbes faced a major backlash yesterday amid calls for its public funding to be withdrawn.

Summerhall Arts faced criticism from across the political spectrum for indicating that the Deputy First Minister will not be allowed to appear in future due to her views on trans issues.

The organisation, which received more than 600,000 of public cash from Creative Scotland earlier this year, said it was an oversight that she was interviewed onstage at the venue last week and it would now draw up robust, proactive inclusion and wellbeing policies to ensure it doesnt happen again with future bookings.

SNP Finance Secretary Shona Robison led the criticism yesterday, saying it doesnt send out the right signal around freedom of speech and intolerance, while the Scottish Government said it supports individuals rights to freedom of expression.

But ministers were urged to go further and ensure that Summerhall and other venues which restrict freedom of speech do not get public cash.

In a separate development, it emerged that the National Library of Scotland had removed a book about the fight against the SNP Governments gender self-ID crusade from a major exhibition following concerns by staff members.

Murdo Fraser, culture spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives, said: Theres a need across the public sector to understand that free speech needs to be upheld.

Public bodies like the National Library of Scotland cannot be involved in censorship of public opinion because they want to protect militant activist groups in the workforce. The same has to apply to groups in receipt of public funds.

Kate Forbes appeared at Summerhall Arts, which has said she will not be welcome in future

The venue's other shows include one which reimagines late Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain as a trans woman

Summerhall has received substantial grant funding from Creative Scotland and these grants need to be conditional on certain standard being met, including upholding free speech.

The idea that anyone is terrified of Kate Forbes is laughable and it is ridiculous that one of the most powerful politicians in the country as Deputy First Minister is not going to be allowed to speak. No organisation taking that view should receive a penny of public funds.

Mr Fraser said he intends to raise the issue with Culture Secretary Angus Robertson and with Creative Scotland.

Asked about the decision by LBC yesterday, Ms Robison said: I think we need to be tolerant of each others views.

She is the Deputy First Minister of Scotland and I just think it doesnt send out the right signal around freedom of speech and intolerance.

I know Kate very well and I just dont think it sends out the right message.

Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry yesterday raised concerns about threats to freedom of speech in Scotland from within her party and others.

Appearing in a live version of Matt Fordes Political Party at the Edinburgh Fringe, Ms Cherry said: It is shocking that a venue in this city has effectively said that the Deputy First Minister is not welcome there, I presume because of her religious faith, and that staff are so coddled that they need to have a safe room provided for them when Kate comes to speak.

I was at the event that Kate spoke at last week. With all due respect to Kate, it wasnt particularly exciting.

She said there is a real problem across Scottish society, and added: This is a problem which has not grown up from the grassroots; it has been imposed from top down.

It is only with political leadership that we can address these problems and I fear the political leadership isnt there.

I hold Nicola Sturgeon responsible for a lot of this - a lot of this nonsense is part of her legacy. But I also hold the current First Minister responsible for not having the courage to speak against it. And I think Anas Sarwar is pretty much missing in action on this as well.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: While ministers have no role in booking or curation decisions taken by individual venues or institutions, the Scottish Government supports individuals rights to freedom of expression and we are clear that there is no place for any form of discrimination in Scotland.

Summerhall Arts did not respond yesterday when asked if it would reverse its decision to prepare policies to prevent some artists and politicians like Ms Forbes appearing in future.

A spokesman for Summerhall Arts said: The Fringe event referenced passed without incident.

Forbes is not banned from the Summerhall building which encompasses a cafe, pub, arts venues, galleries and independent traders offices and studios. Swinney, Curtice, Sarwar, Forbes all entered and exited the building the same way for the events over each day.

The Herald Unspun events were a paid hire and programmed by The Herald newspaper.

Other acts to feature in the Summerhall Arts Fringe programme this year include a spoken word performance by Russian activist group Pussy Riot and a show called No Apologies, which reimagines the late Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain as a trans woman.

The programe also includes a performance entitled Chat Sh**, Get Hit, which dives into womens anger: how it fuels, how it festers and how it is swallowed.
The Chief Constable of Police Scotland has been ordered to pay 12,000 to a man who had a finger broken by one of her officers.

Sheriff Robert Fife ordered Jo Farrell to pay the sum to Ross Lamont following an incident in December 2018 in Glasgow City Centre.

He said the evidence of the officer involved had at times been arrogant and dismissive.

The All Scotland Personal Injury Court heard how Mr Lamont had been on a Christmas night out with colleagues before coming into contact with PCs Nathan Donnelly and Dominic Horn.

The court heard that the officers believed Mr Lamont was involved in an argument with another group of persons outside the Blue Dog bar in the citys West Regent Street.

Sheriff Fife heard how the two police officers tried to de-escalate the situation.

They took Mr Lamont over to a group of railings and asked him for his personal details as they concluded he had committed a breach of the peace.

Mr Lamont disagreed - he believed he had done nothing wrong and refused to provide the information they asked him for..

A claim was made against Chief Constable Jo Farrell after one of her officers broke a suspect's finger

The court heard that Mr Lamont was then told he was being placed under arrest.

He then started to resist with the cops who struggled to restrain him. They described his resistance as like a man who was displaying superhuman strength.

The court heard that Mr Lamont grabbed hold of the railings behind him with his right hand.

This prompted PC Donnelly to grab and pull the Mr Lamonts right little finger - causing it to break.

Lawyers for Mr Lamont believed their client had subjected to unlawful action. They launched a compensation claim at the court earlier this year against the Chief Constable of Police Scotland.

The court heard evidence that the move used by PC Donnelly on Mr Lamonts finger was not a recognised tactic used by Police in how they restrain people.

Sheriff Fife agreed and awarded Mr Lamont 12,000 compensation.

In a written judgment published by the court, Sheriff Fife wrote about how he was unimpressed by some of PC Donnellys evidence to the court.

He wrote: I had some difficulty with the evidence of PC Donnelly. At times, I formed an unfavourable impression of his answers to questions. PC Donnelly was an inexperienced officer in December 2018 but purported to be more experienced.

At times, he came across as being arrogant and dismissive. PC Donnelly demonstrated, by use of a court microphone, how he had grabbed the fingers of the right hand of the pursuer to remove the pursuers

hand from the railings.

This all seemed to be theatrical and unnecessary.

In my view PC Donnelly deliberately targeted the pursuers right little finger, pulling the little finger all the way back and in so doing breaking the little finger.

PC Donnelly made no attempt at all to grab any of the pursuers other fingers on the right hand in order to remove the right hand from the railings.

Sheriff Fife added: PC Donnelly failed to use a recognised Operational Safety Training technique to remove the pursuers right hand from the railings.

The use of force by PC Donnelly by pulling back the pursuers right little finger causing a fracture was not reasonable.

PC Donnelly assaulted the pursuer.

I will grant decree against the defender for payment to the pursuer in the sum of 12,000.
Had I eagerly shelled out 28 in advance for a copy of Nicola Sturgeons memoirs, Id now be inclined to cut up rough.

Franklys juiciest bits have been sprayed with abandon everywhere this week  interviews graciously granted; studios regally toured  to the point that today, on official publication, must feel like hurtling joyously downstairs of that cold and frosty morning to find someone has opened all your Christmas presents.

And such chunks; and such gobbets. As if the sometime First Minister had rolled onto The Jeremy Kyle Show and told all.

Like those magazines of the TV ChitChat order you glimpse in passing at the shops. Shrieking headlines like My Dad left my Mum  for my boyfriend!!!

Before even the silky dustjacket is in your hands, even before said autobiography falls open with that exquisite whiff of printers inks, you already know Sturgeon thinks she may be non-binary.

Who does not rule out, some day, a relationship with another woman. That, as a quivering Scottish Parliament newbie, some rank man kept sidling up to her to snigger about a coarse  and, indeed, apocryphal  nickname.

Yet Sturgeon, heedless of the no-smoke-without-fire brigade, throws it out there again, amidst much other titillation.

She has, no doubt, decades ahead of her to look back and wonder why none of her Pan Macmillan editors  eagerly egging her on  raised a hand gently to breathe, Whoa

Nicola Sturgeon recounted conversations with the late Queen in her memoirs

And thus Nicola Sturgeon is left sprawled out there on the reputational beach. Not in the thoughtful, statesmanlike company of, say, Thatcher or Mitterand, Garret Fitzgerald or Charles de Gaulle.

Much more in the tawdry, brackish he-bwoke-my-necklace waters of Harry and Meghan. And even the late Queen, come to think of it, is betrayed by Sturgeon.

There is an unwritten rule that conversations with the Sovereign are not repeated. Especially her exchanges with ministers.

All in Elizabeth IIs circle knew that she only welcomed tittle-tattle from her closest personal servants  pages, her dresser and that; those she saw every day.

Yet Ms Sturgeon quotes the Queen at some length, declares  improbably - that Her Majesty loved a bit of a gossip and wanted details of the racked Alex Salmond.

Some, too, have wondered aloud why, given the fraught state of Scottish publishing, Sturgeon rolled all the way down to London town to spill such beans.

Surely money was not a consideration for our sometime National Mammy? And there are oddities.

Sturgeon, it seems, cares far more about the rights of trans-identifying men in her deathless prose - she devotes pages and pages to it - than about the cause to which she has supposedly devoted her life.

Ms Sturgeon appears to care far more about the rights of trans-identifying men than Scottish independence in her memoirs

Scotlands independence, meriting nothing like as many paragraphs and barely a tenth of the passion.

The pages of Frankly, too, are strewn with factual errors: silly mistakes, easily checked. One instance will suffice.

Recalling when Covid-19 rolled in like a tsunami, Sturgeon hyperventilates, We moved more quickly than the other governments to ban mass gatherings and close schools.

Actually, Sturgeons general approach was slyly to ascertain what ministers in Whitehall were about to do  and then announce it first.

And Scotlands schools closed their doors on Friday 20 March 2020  the same day as every other school across the United Kingdom.

Almost the saddest aspect of Sturgeons autobiography is her obsession with Alex Salmond  longtime friend, a colleague through decades, a mentor at critical moments.

Until they fell so spectacularly out, from 2017, like jostling barons at a Shakespearean court.

Bloated and bitter, Salmond died last October at some conference in the Balkans.

That recent demise  and broken hearts left behind  might, you think, have signalled some Sturgeon caution.

On top of three incontestable facts: Salmond in 2019 won a civil court case, with costs and damages, against the Scottish Government. Mluds concluded that it had treated Salmond unlawfully, in a manner tainted with apparent bias.

A year later he was acquitted of all charges  by a majority in each instance  of criminal offences against womn, this by a majority-women jury under a presiding female judge, Lady Dorian.

And, a year after that, the relevant Holyrood committee concluded that Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister, had in the course of this tacky episode misled the Scottish Parliament.

Indeed, giving evidence to that committee, there were extraordinary lapses in the Sturgeon memory: one can but congratulate her, half a decade on, how much her grasp of events has improved.

In Frankly, she now goes after her late patron like a studs-up Emily Maitlis. As early as 1989, Sturgeon confides of some internal party episode, she had doubts.

During the independence referendum, she now and then questioned Salmonds judgement  though privately, of course; always privately.

Which did not prevent Sturgeons 2004 plot with him to trick Roseanna Cunningham out of the SNPs deputy leadership, joyously leading the Nationalist charge at Holyrood (Salmond then was marooned in the Commons), holding high office under him for seven years and great prominence in that independence campaign.

Salmond was buried on October 29 yet she is yet fixated on him, even after his two-nil triumph in the courts, her own censure by her Holyrood peers and when, as a woman far more important once murmured, some recollections may vary.

Like Holmes and Moriarty, and as far as Nicola Sturgeon is concerned, she and Salmond must be roped together for always, tumbling down the Reichenbach Falls of history.

The sometime First Minister gives little thought to the other women, Roseanna Cunningham apart, slighted or brutalised as Sturgeon surged through the decades to become great.

She has always howled down the obvious comparisons with Margaret Thatcher, apt as they are. As to what her surrogates did to, for instance, Johanna Cherry and J K Rowling  well, silence is golden.

Or, perhaps, just yellow. And then, working the phones in 2023, briefing her useful idiots in the Scottish media, watching complacently as the Scottish Greens joined the pile-on against Kate Forbes.

Twisting her faith and background  a Free Church launched, you know, in a radical stand against despotic landlordism  till leadership-candidate Forbes was suitably painted as the sort of crazy Pentecostal from the Appalachians who dances with snakes.

But saddest of all is how self-demeaningly, Nicola Sturgeon does down herself.

This was our most cultured and best-read First Minister since Donald Dewar. A girl without advantage or contacts from an Ayrshire new town who spurned the most obvious (and the laziest) vehicle for ambition  the Labour Party  and who refused to sit at the back of the bus and shut up.

By hard, hard work and against daunting odds  it took her four draining bids to win Glasgow Govan  Sturgeon clawed her way to power. Was not ashamed to reinvent her image. Impressed civil servants in every brief she held.

A fearsome debater; a tough political operator. Swept to the SNP leadership, at the last, unopposed. A woman with a delicious sense of humour, at her peak beset everywhere for selfies.

Who sold out the SECC Hydro faster than Beyonce and would win eight national elections on the trot. Yet all, inexplicably, that drips through the pages of Frankly is the whine of a victim.
A Minnesota teenager has filed a discrimination complaint against a Buffalo Wild Wings after an employee forced her to show her breasts to prove she was a girl inside the bathroom.

Gerika Mudra, 18, had been enjoying an outing with her friend at the Owatonna location in April when she got up to use the restroom.

She never expected to be followed into the women's room by an employee, who began banging on the stall door and saying: 'This is a women's restroom. The man needs to get out of here.'

Mudra, a biracial lesbian, is a cis-gendered woman. After telling the employee she was a 'lady,' the worker demanded she lift up her shirt and 'prove' she was female.

The employee blocked the high schooler from leaving the restroom until the teen unzipped her hoodie and showed her breasts, Gender Justice, an organization that filed a discrimination complaint on Mudra's behalf, said.

'What happened to Gerika Mudra was not just wrong, it was unlawful,' staff attorney, Sara Jane Baldwin, said in a statement.

'Minnesota law protects people from exactly this kind of discrimination in public spaces. No one should be harassed, humiliated, or forced to prove themselves just to use the bathroom.'

After showing her chest, Mudra was allowed to leave the bathroom by the employee.

Gerika Mudra, 18, was enjoying an outing with her friend at the Owatonna location on Easter when she was got up to use the restroom

She never expected to be followed into the women's room by an employee, who began banging on the stall door and saying: 'This is a women's restroom. The man needs to get out of here'

'She just rolled her eyes and walked away,' Mudra told The Minnesota Star Tribune. 'She didn't even say sorry.'

Prior to the bathroom visit, the teen had noticed the waitress was acting weird, claiming she was cheerfully telling other patrons 'Happy Easter,' while shooting them 'dirty looks' and 'whispering' about her and her friend.

'Because she didn't fit someone else's idea of what a girl should look like, she was treated as suspicious,' Gender Justice Executive Director, Megan Peterson, told The Tribune.

Although Mudra is not transgender, nearly a third of LGBT+ people have reported being harassed while using the restroom.

'What if Gerika had been a trans person?' Peterson questioned. 'Would this story have ended differently? That's the terrifying reality too many trans people live with every day.'

The organization filed a discrimination complaint on Mudra's behalf with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, requesting a formal apology from the restaurant and better training for its employees.

The state law states that businesses have a 'legal duty to protect their customers from harassment and discrimination,' Baldwin said.

'That means providing staff with training, creating clear policies, and creating a culture that ensures every person is treated with respect and dignity.

'What happened to Gerika is exactly the kind of harm our laws are meant to prevent, and it's time businesses take those responsibilities seriously,' she said.

Mudra, a biracial lesbian, is a cis-gendered woman. After telling the employee she was a 'lady,' the worker demanded she lift up her shirt and 'prove' she was a female. After showing her private area, Mudra was allowed to leave the bathroom by the employee

Gender Justice filed a discrimination complaint on Mudra's behalf with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, requesting a formal apology from the restaurant and better training for its employees

Mudra's stepmother, Shauna Otterness was 'enraged' about the incident and accused the restaurant of 'humiliating' her daughter.

The experience left the teen scared, who said: 'I will definitely never go back there.'

It wasn't the first time the androgynous teen had been mistaken for a man, but she claimed it was the 'worst time.'

'She was mad, screaming. She made me feel very uncomfortable,' Mudra said of the staff member.

Now, the teen avoids using the restaurant in public and often opts to hold it in to avoid similar situations.

'After that, I just don't like going in public bathrooms. I just hold it in... I want to be able to use the bathroom in peace.'

Her stepmother said that Mudra 'should be able to use the bathroom in peace in any public bathroom without being nervous.'

Daily Mail has contacted Buffalo Wild Wings and Mudra's family for comment.
An inquiry into the death of a man in custody amid claims of police brutality faces the threat of legal action after its chairman cleared himself of bias allegations.

Lord Bracadale decided not to recuse himself as head of the Sheku Bayoh probe after ruling there was no possibility that he was biased  but it could be derailed by a judicial review.

The Mail understands the Scottish Police Federation (SPF), which had called for the retired High Court judge to step down, is now considering going to court to press for him to go.

It had claimed Lord Bracadales decision to meet Mr Bayohs relatives on five occasions raised questions over his impartiality  claims he has dismissed.

The statutory probe into the death of Mr Bayoh has cost 25.6million, but the total cost to taxpayers - including the sums spent by bodies such as police and prosecutors - is more than 50million.

Mr Bayoh, 31, originally from Sierra Leone in west Africa, died after he was restrained by around six police officers who were called to Hayfield Road in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on May 3, 2015.

After considering the matter, Lord Bracadale said he had refused the application for his recusal.

He said: Having reviewed the facts, the fair-minded and informed observer would conclude that there was no real possibility that I was biased.

Sheku Bayoh died after he was restrained by around six police officers

Lord Bracadale said he had refused the application for his recusal

Lord Bracadale said such an observer would note that although the meetings with the families of Sheku Bayoh were private, they were not kept secret.

A spokesman for the inquiry said: The inquiry held a procedure and conduct hearing on June 12.

After careful consideration of written and oral submissions from core participants, Lord Bracadale has decided not to recuse himself or terminate the appointments of the assessors.

Having regard to the relevant legal test, he has determined there is no apparent bias.

Taking into account various considerations in respect of the handling of the inquiry, he has determined having meetings with the families was not unfair.

There is much important work for the inquiry still to do, not least proceeding with closing submissions and moving towards the writing of the final report.

The team is working at pace and will announce next steps in due course.

The inquiry has been examining the circumstances of Mr Bayohs death, and whether race was a factor.

Last night an SPF spokesman said: Any fair-minded observer would be concerned when it is revealed that there have been five meetings with a core participant family, without the knowledge of the other core participants.

The inquirys legal team asserted that no evidence was discussed at these meetings, it subsequently transpired that was not the case.

Lord Bracadale has never asked for a meeting with former PC Nicole Short, who was assaulted in May 2015 in the line of duty and who has been unable to return to work as a result of her injuries.

Police officers will continue to call for a fair and transparent hearing, based on the evidence alone.

It is understood SPF lawyers are looking at Lord Bracadales judgment as they prepare for a possible judicial review of his decision.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Bayoh family, lawyer Aamer Anwar said the decision was humiliating and devastating for the SPF.

Mr Anwar said Lord Bracadale has done nothing wrong - he is a judge with over 50 years legal experience, respected for his impartiality and integrity.

He said: There is nothing wrong with the chair treating a bereaved family with compassion and respect.

The Mail revealed last month that police chiefs held three unminuted meetings with the family of Mr Bayoh, fuelling a row over alleged bias against the officers involved.

Senior officers met relatives of the father-of-two - but no record was kept of what was discussed.

The last of the meetings took place after Lord Bracadales hearing into his suitability to continue in his role back in June.

In June, the Mail revealed up to ten members of the Bayoh family had received compensation from Police Scotland - including a single award of more than 1million.

Relatives of Mr Bayoh halted their attempt to sue the force in March after reaching an out-of-court settlement in relation to his death.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: The Scottish Government remains committed to establishing the facts surrounding the circumstances leading to Mr Bayohs death.
President Donald Trump's most controversial ally Laura Loomer has set her sights on taking out one of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy's key aides.

Loomer would like to see Stefanie Spear ousted, according to Wednesday's edition of Politico Playbook.

Spear now serves as principal deputy chief of staff and senior counselor to RFK at HHS but she previously served as Kennedy's press secretary during his 2024 campaign.

She was one of the most visible campaign officials during Kennedy's run at the White House, which ended when the Democrat-turned-independent decided to endorse now President Donald Trump.

'I think that there's a clear intention by Stefanie Spear to utilize her position to try and lay the groundwork for a 2028 RFK presidential run,' Loomer alleged to Playbook.

Loomer has tried to root out those disloyal to the president - and was largely credited for the gutting of the National Security Council earlier this year.

She appeared to have concerns about Kennedy too - a former political rival of the president who comes from a storied family of Democrats.

But she told Playbook she thought Kennedy was likely firmly in his place.

Laura Loomer is concerned that one of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s top aides is helping him ready a 2028 presidential bid

Stefanie Spear (left) was one of the most visible campaign officials during Kennedy's 2024 run for the White House

'I'm not naive enough to think that the president is going to get rid of RFK, but I will say that ... there are concerns about some of the staffing decisions over at HHS,' she told Politico before pointing a finger a Spear.

Loomer said that her suspicions about Spear forging ahead on a RFK 2028 bid come from 'sources in HHS.'

Contacted by the Daily Mail, Loomer didn't have anything to add to Politico's reporting.

HHS's acting chief of staff Matt Buckham brushed off the story.

'Secretary Kennedy and his team are laser-focused on delivery President Trump's promise to Make America Healthy Again - ignoring the Beltway gossip and political crystal-balling,' Buckham told the Daily Mail in a statement.

Requests for comment to Spear were not immediately returned.

Spear was already taking heat from MAGA loyalists during the opening weeks of the administration.

In February, Axios reported that Trump-aligned insiders were sharing old social media posts from Spear that show support for Democratic causes.

'This woman just has every appearance of being a disaster from a conservative perspective,' one source from a conservative-leaning organization told the publication.

Last month, Axios reported that those involved in Kennedy's Make America Healthy Again movement seemed to be laying the groundwork for him to mount a 2028 campaign.

Laura Loomer and Donald Trump in August 2024

That move could ruffle feathers with Trump. While he is constitutionally barred from running for a third term, the president will want to play kingmaker in the 2028 race.

Hundreds of supporters and influencers participated in a mid-July MAHA call that was coordinated by Spear, vaccine skeptic Robert Malone and MAHA PAC leader Tony Lyons.

Lyons' involvement signaled to some sources that Kennedy's political infrastructure was getting ready for another bid.

But Lyons pushed back on this interpretation of the event.

'This is just a made up story,' he told the Daily Mail last month. 'There's no truth to it whatsoever. The PAC was not involved at all in that media event and is mostly dormant now.'

'Secretary Kennedy has given no indication whatsoever that he's even considering running for president,' Lyons added.
Two social media influencers who targeted Orthodox Jews with water pistols have been 'let off with a slap on the wrist', antisemitism campaigners say.

Last week, the two men recorded themselves driving around Salford and spraying adults as well as children wearing Orthodox Jewish clothing with water guns.

They could be heard cruelly laughing as they soaked an innocent passers-by, with an unidentified liquid.

A clip showed one of the self-proclaimed 'pranksters' hold his phone near a Jewish man and play an Apple Pay sound effect, while saying: 'You are very rich, I just got 60 from you.'

Before being deleted, the clips amassed nearly a million likes on Instagram and attracted anti-Semitic comments including rat, pig and nose emojis.

The posts were later edited to include a disclaimer, The Telegraph reported, which read: 'This video was made purely for humorous purposes. It is just a joke and not hate speech in any way. Please do not take it the wrong way.'

Following the incident, the duo were arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated common assault, but it has since been reported they have since been handed community resolution orders after apologising.

People given community resolution orders receive no criminal record and these can only be given for hate crimes in exceptional circumstances. This includes if a victim does not want to press charges, if an offender confesses, and if an inspector agrees to resolve the case.

However the leniency given to the duo by the Greater Manchester Police has sparked outrage, as Campaign Against Antisemitism says the men have been 'met with a slap on the wrist' for the 'hate crime'.

Two social media influencers who targeted Orthodox Jews with a water pistols have been 'let off with a slap on the wrist', antisemitism campaigners say

Last week, the two men recorded themselves driving around Salford and spraying adults as well as children wearing orthodox Jewish clothing with water guns.

A spokesperson said: 'This was a racially aggravated crime that was filmed explicitly so that it could be widely publicised by the offenders.

'Restorative justice should never have been on the table in lieu of criminal proceedings. For years, we have seen anti-Semitic hate crime met with a slap on the wrist.

'There is no deterrence, and now hate crime against Jews is spiralling out of control. A crime is a crime, and the authorities should be punishing those who break the law.'

Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, has also insisted the force revisit the incident and take 'the most robust action'.

He told The Telegraph: 'Spraying members of the Jewish community with water pistols while jeering from the safety of a car is cowardice. It is public humiliation for profit, fuelling online hate, and encourages others to join in.

'This is happening against the backdrop of over 1,500 anti-Semitic incidents in just the first half of this year, one of the highest totals ever recorded.

'Jewish communities are being harassed, spat at, and attacked, and now filmed. This is not something Britain can turn a blind eye to.

While urging the police to take another look at the case, Mr Philip said 'we cannot allow' a Britain where Jews feel in danger due to their faith.

They have since been handed community resolution orders, which carry no criminal record, after apologising.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson told the publication, the two men aged 26 and 36, were 'very apologetic' following their arrest in Farnworth, near Bolton.

The pair told the force they wouldn't commit the same actions again and deleted their YouTube channel.

GMP said both victims and locals were 'happy with the outcome', and that a rabbi who had been sprayed did not want to pursue further action.

The spokesman said: 'Ultimately, we must be victim-led. The victims didn't wish to support any form of prosecution or go to court. We cannot force them.

'The issue is taken seriously, and it was dealt with as a crime, hence the arrests within less than 24 hours.'

The force said they would always encourage victims of hate crimes to report incidents so they can be probed.

They added that if victims wanted to pursue legal action, and the force is able to satisfy the CPS evidence threshold for charging suspects, then they would do so.

In 2024, religious hate crime rose by 25 per cent. With crimes targeted at Jewish people more than doubling from the previous year.

In London, the number of anti-semitic hate crimes reported to Met Police corresponded to nearly one per every 1,000 Jews of the 270,000 that live in London, making it eight times higher than the rate per 1,000 Muslims living in London.

Figures from the Community Security Trust's (CST) Anti-semitic Incidents Report from January to June this year state that 1,978 instances of anti-Jewish hate were recorded across the UK in the first six months of this year, up 105 per cent on the same period last year.

Just over half were linked to, or referenced, the Hamas atrocities of October 7 last year, Israel, the Palestinian territories or the subsequent war, the charity said.

The total included one incident of 'extreme violence' - an alleged arson attack on a residential property - during the period, the report said.

Cases of assault jumped 41 per cent period-on-period from 86 to 121.

A clip showed one of the self-proclaimed 'pranksters' hold his phone near a Jewish man and play an Apple Pay sound effect, while saying: 'You are very rich, I just got 60 from you'

Teachers also warned last month that anti-semitism is now rife in schools across the UK.

A survey undertaken by the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) revealed that more than half (51 per cent) of Jewish teachers have experienced some form of anti-semitism since May 2023.

Of the more than 300,000 members surveyed, 44 per cent also reported witnessing swastika graffiti at their schools, while 39 per cent have been subjected to Nazi-related comments.

One Jewish teacher even reported having students shout 'free Palestine' at them 'on multiple occasions', while, in another instance, someone shouted 'f*** the Jews'.

Meanwhile, members of teaching staff recalled instances where they had been told 'it's not racist to say Jews are rich - it's just a fact', while others said they had been assumed to be Israeli, rather than British.
Drivers are furious with a council over a new foot-high 'killer kerb' which has caused thousands of pounds of damage to cars.

The new installation was designed to create a 'more welcoming environment for pedestrians' but has instead become so notorious that it has been listed as a tourist attraction on Google Maps.

It has also caused so much damage that a Facebook page has been dedicated to the carnage it has caused.

The Lib Dem-led Wiltshire Council raised the kerb in October 2024 as part of a 3.2million project.

It was 'renewed' last year under a scheme the county council said would 'create a more welcoming environment for pedestrians' when they walk towards the city centre from the railway station.

One video of a car bumping over the kerb had been viewed more than one million times on social media.

Since it was installed the council has faced a slew of compensation claims from motorists who have damaged their vehicles on the kerb.

However, some locals say that the drivers are themselves to blame.

Have YOU hit the 'killer kerb'? Email tom.lawrence@mailonline.co.uk

A car struggles to drive around the new foot-high kerb in Salisbury, Wiltshire

The 'killer kerb 'sits around 328 feet from Salisbury train station in Wiltshire at a mini roundabout at the junction of two major roads.

Since opening in 10 month ago eight compensation claims relating to it have been made compared to zero in the three previous years.

Tom Curtress, 34, from Berkshire, is one of several people who have damaged their cars on the kerb.

He said: 'It will be two new doors and some panel work. It's not exactly a bit of varnish and some paint work.

'Other people will do the same thing; they will have a great weekend, drop someone off at the station and then prang their car.'

After hitting the kerb in his Ford Focus in March he noticed a BMW do something similar 15 minutes later.

He added: 'That BMW car door's going to cost more than a Ford Focus one.

'It was an identical issue, coming from the station. It's not just causing a little scuff. It's causing dents.

One driver had damage caused to the side of their vehicle as a result of driving past the kerb

'If you drive from the station, you can't see the kerb from the driver's side. It's a tight turn and you don't want to go into the oncoming traffic.

'I took one video where around 50 per cent of the cars, to avoid it, had their driver's side on the other side of the road.'

Retired military pilot Anthony D'Arcy-Irvine, 82, caused 4,000 worth of damage after hitting his Volkswagen on the kerb in June.

When he took his car to the garage he was told he was the 'third car that day'.

Mr D'Arcy-Irvine, from Enford, Wilts, said of the incident that led to the damage: 'I was going to get crushed. If I had stayed where I was, I would have been hit by the vehicle coming the other way.

'I have lived in Salisbury for 50 years and I have used that roundabout regularly, I think it is very badly marked.

'When you pull out of the way of a truck coming the other way, there's not sign of where it is. You cannot see it. Other people have rung me and said the same thing.

'Wiltshire Council and Highways have a responsibility to make sure it is safe for driers as well, and it isn't. They have a duty of care for road users.'

Pictured: A driver attempts the tight corner where the raised kerb has caused damage to many cars

Heather Armstrong, who owns nearby Gullicks Florists, added: 'Literally everyday a vehicle will go into the kerb and people get stuck on it.

'If someone gets stuck on there it does cause problems with traffic building up.

'I know it's there, so I know to pull out further. For some people, it's not that visible.

'When there was a railing there it gave some more guidance. You have to swing out the other way, and sometimes with traffic coming the other way, that's not possible.'

One Facebook page dedicated to the kerb has over 4,200 members, more than 10 percent of the historic city's population.

However, viewers are split over who to blame for the damage.

One commentator, Jo Earley, saying 'Can we stop blaming the kerb and start blaming the idiots behind the wheel?'

Another user, Patrick Day, commented: 'This group isn't for 'victims'. It's for people to laugh at the ones who can't drive and mount it.'

Dashcam footage caught the moment one driver had stopped after hitting the kerb

However Jonathan Hodgetts wrote: 'Installing a curb like this is crazy but I am amazed people get caught so often. Mind you we all make mistakes so must not be too critical.'

One anonymous user said: 'You should have your licence taken away from you if you can't negotiate a corner, dumb***.'

Samantha Stokes added: 'Far too much time is being spent on this bloody kerb. I can't wait for the traffic lights to come for the idiots can't turn a corner without smashing their car up.'

One social media member even suggested setting up a viewing area on the other side of the road to mock road users.

After months of complaints, a safety audit has now been completed by Wiltshire Council and work is due to start next week to improve the kerb.

The gradient of the footpath is set to be reduced and a bollard put in place to guide people around the 90-degree corner.

'Deterrent paving' will also be insalled to assist drivers.

Councillor Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways at Wiltshire Council, said: 'This is a key junction providing access to the railway station and city centre, with approximately 11,000 vehicles passing under the Fisherton Street railway bridge each day.

'It is important that the infrastructure installed at this location supports pedestrian safety, especially with the recent opening of Fisherton car park for SWR customers, which has increased footfall in the area.'

Daily Mail has contacted Wiltshire Council for comment.
A North Carolina woman was attacked by a rabid fox after she thought she heard an injured cat wailing outside her home.

Jordan Burns stepped outside her front door with her toddler in Aberdeen on Tuesday morning to check on what she thought was a cat under her car, but she was quickly proven wrong.

Instead, a wild fox bolted at her, bit her leg and then her hand when she tried to get it off of her.

'She finally grabbed it by its chin; she was able to get it off her leg, but then it bit her hand after that,' Aberdeen Police Capt. Chris Davis told WRAL News.

When officers arrived Davis said they caught the fox biting the car's tires before it ran into a nearby wooded area.

While at Burns' house, another call came in for someone else who was bitten by a crazed fox.

A 77-year-old unnamed man was bitten by the same animal on his leg on his birthday, according to police. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The fox, which tested positive for rabies, was then caught and shot by Moore County Animal Services deputies.

Two people were attacked by a rabid fox in Aberdeen, North Carolina Tuesday morning. (Pictured: The fox after it was shot dead)

After the wild animal bit the first victim, officials found it and shot it dead

Burns, who is 'receiving appropriate care' along with the other victim, was left in complete shock from the random attack.

'It was just such a bizarre thing,' she told Fox8. 'I never expected it would be a fox that would bite me.'

Meanwhile, locals in the area said they often see animals, like cats and deer, but were stunned to hear of a fox attack.

'Im not surprised at all that there was a fox, but for there to be a fox that attacked someone, thats a little different,' Hana Bornhorst told WRAL News.

Officials are now warning residents to stay away from any wild animals.

'Residents are urged to avoid contact with wild animals,' deputies announced.

People have been told to call Moore County Animal Services if they come in contact with an aggressive animal displaying unusual behavior.

A 77-year-old unnamed man was bitten by the same animal on his leg (pictured) on his birthday

Both Burns and the male victim were treated after the attacks and are 'receiving appropriate care'

Rabies is a viral disease that affects all mammals. Foxes are the most common wildlife species to transmit the virus, according to Humane World of Animals.

The contagious virus normally spreads through the infected animal's saliva. Foxes can also pass it on through scratches or bites.

If bitten by a rabid animal, people should immediately wash their wound well with soap and water and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

A series of vaccines are also typically given to those affected to prevent the virus from spreading.
The foul-mouthed woman who spat on a former acting US Attorney is headed for a guilty plea in court.

Emily Gabriella Sommer, 33, of the District of Columbia, was arrested on May 22 following an incident earlier that month in which she allegedly assaulted former US Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr.

On May 8, Sommer - whilst walking a dog - approached Martin, who was mid-interview at the time.

She yelled, 'Are you Ed Martin?' and then, 'You are Ed Martin!' at the official before seemingly lunging at him and spitting.

Sommer then continued walking as she screamed: 'You are a disgusting man. F**k you, Ed Martin... My name is Emily Gabriella Sommer, and you are served,' according to the arrest affidavit.

Martin was being interviewed in front of the US Attorney's Office in Washington, DC, at the time and the camera captured the entire exclehange.

Later that day, Martin posted on X that he was 'thrilled to meet with the prosecutors, investigators and paralegals' on his Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking Section.

An X account that is believed to belong to Sommer responded to the post saying, 'ED, that was me that spit in your face today...'

Emily Gabriella Sommer, 33, of the District of Columbia, was arrested on May 22 following an incident earlier that month in which she allegedly assaulted former US Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr.

She yelled, 'Are you Ed Martin?' and then 'You are Ed Martin' at the official before seemingly lunging at him and spitting

The post continued: 'A pleasure to hawk a dehydrated, pithy white foam spit into your face. I only apologize that this city left me so dehydrated and unable to get water that I couldn't produce more to stain and drip down your face.'

A criminal complaint was filed in US District Court in connection with the incident and Sommer was charged with three counts of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer.

Sommer made her first court appearance on May 22, and it reportedly did not go smoothly.

She allegedly became 'agitated' when she learned prosecutors would seek a more serious assault charge that could send her to prison for up to eight years, according to Law & Crime.

The 33-year-old allegedly spat on and kicked two US marshals while she was being removed from the courtroom, earning her two additional assault charges.

The US Justice Department (DOJ) argued in June that Sommer had broken conditions of her release by targeting Martin on social media.

She allegedly harassed him with comments such as: 'You mad, bro? You got fired, and then caught a loogie to the shoulder...'

Days later Sommer was arrested at her DC apartment for allegedly defacing her neighbor's property.

The suspect allegedly spray-painted the neighbor's front door with their name followed buy the word 'Spy,' according to police.

It is also alleged that she attacked the neighbors door with a 'metal rod'.

A criminal complaint was filed in US District Court in connection with the incident and Sommer was charged with three counts of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer

Fired United States Attorney for Washington DC Ed Martin received insult to injury when a 'psychotic lib' spat on him just after he was replaced by Fox News ' Jeanine Pirro

Following his removal, Martin was being interviewed by Ed Henry on Newsmax when the woman confronted him

Sommer was placed in police custody in June and ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation.

Sommer pleaded not guilty to all charges on July 30.

Court records show a change of plea hearing for Sommer is set for Thursday afternoon before US District Judge Jia Cobb.

Martin is known to be a controversial figure in Washington, DC.

He has suggested that the 2020 presidential election was stolen and has also fired prosecutors and FBI investigators who worked on January 6 insurrection cases.
Friends of a couple killed in an alleged double murder say the male victim may have been involved in a dispute with the accused perpetrator over the sale and ownership of dogs.

Ross Judd, 34, is alleged to have killed pregnant woman Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and decapitated her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, before putting his head on a spike.

Their bodies were found by a neighbour at a residence on Adrienne Crescent in Mount Waverley, southeastern Melbourne, at about 9.55pm on Monday.

Judd was arrested with two dogs at Westall train station in the city's south-east at about 1.40am on Tuesday.

Just a few hours earlier, shortly after 11pm, diners claimed to have seen a man matching his description walk into a McDonald's on Dandenong Rd in Clayton with two large German shepherds, who waited patiently at the door.

Police are investigating whether Judd and Mr Gunn may have been involved in a dispute over the ownership and sale of the dogs in the lead-up to the alleged murders.

Friends of Mr Gunn told the Herald Sun he was often seen with his beloved German shepherd, Dragon.

Elise Browne said Dragon was 'very protective' of Mr Gunn, adding: 'Morph was always with his dog.'

Ross Judd is accused of a double-murder in Mount Waverley

McDonald's customers allegedly spotted him with two German shepherds before his arrest

'That's what spun me out when I heard about (the deaths), because he and his dog went everywhere together and Dragon wouldn't let anyone near him,' she said.

Pictures shared of Judd's dogs, in their distinctive bandanas, at McDonald's prompted some people to comment that they had seen the well-behaved dogs and the man around the area previously.

A neighbour of the couple, who claimed to have heard arguing and barking dogs on the night of the alleged murders, spoke out on Wednesday.

'No one should have to come across what I saw down there,' said Ben Scott-Sandvik, who lives at the front unit in the Mount Waverley block where the alleged double murders took place.

He told the Herald Sun 'nobody needs to live knowing that this sort of thing has happened to their families.'

Judd appeared at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, winking after he tripped as he walked to the dock.

He then smiled throughout the brief filing hearing over the two counts of murder.

The prosecution asked the court for a ten-week extension because 'it's a complex crime scene with significant amounts of DNA evidence'.

Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and Andrew Gunn, 50, were allegedly murdered at their Mount Waverley home

An artist's impression of Judd, 34, who fronted court today charged with two counts of murder

The prosecutor also said autopsies were expected to be delayed, as alleged murder victim Ms Georgopoulos was five months pregnant when she died.

Daily Mail has previously revealed Ms Georgopoulos was set to face a plea hearing at Ringwood Magistrates' Court on September 1 for car theft and burglary charges.

The alleged killer's legal aid lawyer did not oppose the unusually lengthy period to serve the brief, but told the court it was her client's first time in custody.

Judd also faces charges regarding previous allegations of making threats, the Daily Mail can also reveal.

The lawyer also said Judd needed to see the custody nurse for 'follow-up medication and physical health issues'.

On Wednesday, Ms Georgopoulos' mother Petty paid tribute to her daughter.

'My little heart, you left life so unfairly that I still cannot believe it,' she said in the touching Facebook post.

An alleged disagreement over dog ownership could have been a key factor related to the death of Ms Georgopoulos (pictured) and her partner, friends have suggested

'In recent days you were so happy - we made dreams together for our little granddaughter that you were going to bring into your life.

'And suddenly, everything was erased in one night, when an [alleged] murderer cut the thread of your life and of my little granddaughter's life that you were going to bring into the world in four months.

'No matter how much they separated us, I will never stop loving you. Forever. Until we meet again, my little girl, in the light of the angels.'

Ms Georgopoulos worked as a customer service representative for several electricity and insurance companies, and had been Mr Gunn's partner for three years.

The couple were found dead after police received calls from neighbours on Monday night about yelling coming from the property, and heavily armed police swarmed the Adrienne Crescent home at 9.55pm.

Inside the small unit, officers allegedly found Mr Gunn's mutilated body next to the body of Ms Georgopoulos.
A man accused of chucking a sandwich at a federal agent in DC has been hit with a felony as the White House vows to 'restore law and order' in the nation's capital.

Sean Charles Dunn, who was filmed as he allegedly berated and attacked an officer with his Subway order on August 10.

No-nonsense US Attorney Jeanine Pirro tore into the suspect in a fiery video shared on Tuesday, denouncing crime and letting culprits know their reign of terror is over.

'He thought it was funny,' Pirro said of Dunn.

'Well, he doesn't think it's funny today cause we charged him with a felony - assault on a police officer.'

In the jaw-dropping video taken by a bystander, Dunn was allegedly heard screaming at a group of US Border Patrol agents, calling them 'f*cking fascists.'

With his weapon of choice - his dinner - by his side, he shouted 'shame' as he pointed at the group of feds.

The heated encounter occurred just outside the popular franchise where Dunn purchased the incriminating sandwich.

No-nonsense US Attorney Jeanine Pirro tore into the suspect in a fiery video shared on Tuesday, denouncing crime and letting culprits know their reign of terror is over

Sean Charles Dunn, who was filmed as he allegedly berated and attacked an officer with his Subway order on August 10

Photos from the chaotic scene show the pink collared shirt-wearing culprit being swarmed by officers from agencies including CBP and the FBI

After several moments of going ballistic from across the road, the culprit approaches the agents and gets in the face of Agent Gregory Lairmore.

The group of agents remained calm while Dunn became increasingly agitated as he stood within feet of one of the officers' faces.

The sandwich hurler then took his footlong and forcefully threw it at Lairmore's chest before attempting to sprint away.

But his getaway was a failure. The agents immediately trailed the suspect and cuffed him shortly after his violent outburst.

Photos from the chaotic scene show the pink collared shirt-wearing culprit being swarmed by officers from agencies including CBP and the FBI.

Dunn was arrested and processed at the Metropolitan Police Departments Third District.

He allegedly told an officer: 'I did it. I threw a sandwich.'

Dunn confronted agents from just feet away while holding his sandwich

In March, Trump launched a task force with the sole purpose of 'surging law enforcement to restore order and enhance' DC's infrastructure

'We're gonna back the police to the hill,' Pirro asserted in her video announcement.

'So there, stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else!'

Dunn was arrested during a sweeping crime crackdown initiated by the Trump administration.

'We will rebuild our once-great cities, including our capital in Washington, DC, making them safe, clean, and beautiful again - and we want to make this city again safe,' Trump said in January.

'We dont want people coming to Washington and getting mugged, shot, killed. Were going to stop it.'

In March, Trump launched a task force with the sole purpose of 'surging law enforcement to restore order and enhance' DC's infrastructure.

Trump has claimed DC has a 'rampant crime crisis' and referred to the area as a 'nightmare of murder and crime.'

On Sunday, Trump warned on Truth Social: 'MR. NICE GUY." We want our Capital BACK.'

The deployment of 120 FBI agents working the night shift started on Sunday as they flooded the streets of the capital

Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) agents stand guard in Dupont Circle as part of a federal law enforcement deployment to the US capital

Trump has spoken extensively about his plans in DC on social media

He denounced homelessness on the streets and said FBI agents will work alongside DC police to tackle the issue, according to a post made earlier in the day.

'The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY. We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital,' Trump posted on Truth Social.

'The Criminals, you don't have to move out. We're going to put you in jail where you belong.'

Photos taken late that night show several federal authorities working in coordination with one another, including the FBI, CBP and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

The following day, he declared he was federalizing local police under section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.

This act allows the president to take emergency control of DC's police for a month.

Law enforcement officials told Fox News that at least 103 people have been arrested in DC since August 7.

'President Trumps bold leadership is quickly making our nations capital safer,' White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told the outlet.

He denounced homelessness on the streets and said FBI agents will work alongside DC police to tackle the issue

There were about 30 National Guard troops in the area on Tuesday evening.

The White House told Fox that 23 illegal immigrants were arrested on Tuesday, along with 33 people suspected of firearm offenses.

A homicide suspect was arrested, as well as seven people facing charges related to narcotics. Ten arrests were of people who had warrants out for them.

Authorities also recovered 24 firearms that night.

The White House said Tuesday night's sweep included 1,450 law enforcement agents, including the National Guard troops and 750 uniformed DC cops.

This war on crime operation is going to soon involve agents and officers patrolling DC all day and night, Fox reported.

While Trump is adamant about a crime influx in DC, local officials disagree.

But during a Sunday interview, the Democratic mayor of Washington, DC, Muriel Bowser, insisted the capital was 'not experiencing a crime spike.'

Trump has claimed DC has a 'rampant crime crisis' and referred to the area as a 'nightmare of murder and crime'

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser called the city's violent crime rate the lowest in 30 years and said Trump is 'very aware' of the capital's progress after a recent Oval Office meeting

'It is true that we had a terrible spike in crime in 2023, but this is not 2023,' Bowser said on MSNBC's The Weekend.

Bowser said she believed the president was exaggerating the need for troops to be deployed onto city streets - mainly because the District is not experiencing the crime spike he suggests.

According to recent data from the Rochester Institute of Technology, in 2024, the homicide rate in DC was 27.3 per 100,000.

This was a drop from 2023, when the rate was 39.4 per 100,000 people.

Department of Justice data suggests that in 2024, there were 187 homicides compared to 274 the previous year.
Thousands of Victorians were woken by a 3.2 magnitude earthquake early Thursday morning.

The quake was recorded off the coast of Flinders shortly after 4:30am at a depth of 10km.

Tremors were felt across Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and as far as Geelong.

More than 500 reports were submitted to Geoscience Australia.

No significant damage has been reported.

Residents who felt the tremor said it lasted between 5 and 10 seconds.

'I was just dozing off - it sounded like a snap and then a rumble,' one person told 3AW.

Many others took to social media to share their experiences.

A 3.2 magnitude earthquake was recorded off the Flinders coast on Thursday morning

Residents in seaside towns along the Mornington Peninsula were among those to feel the tremor

'We are in Rye and felt this one. It sounded like thunder going through the house and the windows rattled and house shook,' one posted.

Another added: 'Wife woke up (and) said that definitely was an earthquake. I'm like yeah, yeah your dreaming love ... I guess she was right. Felt in Rosebud.'

The risk of a tsunami has been ruled out.

'You sort of have to get up into the sixes and sevens to see that sort of thing,' Seismology Research Centre chief scientist Adam Pascale told 3AW.

He added that's it's not uncommon for tremors to be felt on the Mornington Peninsula.

'Activity in that area is not unheard of but certainly not as much as you might see in Gippsland or through the Great Dividing Range,' Mr Pascale said.

'I think the most significant one was in 1971 off Flinders  but this is the largest for a number of years since I think in the late 1990s.'
The BBC was forced into an embarrassing climbdown on Wednesday after Robert Jenrick was branded xenophobic on a flagship radio news programme.

Corporation bosses apologised to the Shadow Justice Secretary and had Radio 4s Today taken down from its streaming services and edited.

Guest Dr Krish Kandiah prompted fury when he used the Thought For The Day segment of Today to criticise this weekends Mail on Sunday front page in which Mr Jenrick said he worried for his young daughters and defended protests against asylum hotels.

With no reference made to his role as the founder of a refugee charity, Dr Kandiah was allowed to accuse the top Tory of fuelling fear of the stranger, telling listeners: The technical name for this is xenophobia.

Mr Jenrick hit back, tweeting: On BBC Radio 4 this morning listeners were told that if youre concerned about the threat of illegal migrants to your kids, youre racist. Wrong. Youre a good parent.

He later told the Daily Mail: Illegal migration is obviously fuelling crime and the public are right to be concerned about it.

Its extremely disappointing the BBC thought it was acceptable to smear millions of worried citizens as xenophobic for their completely understandable fears about undocumented men entering illegally.

Within hours of the breakfast broadcast, Today was pulled from the BBC Sounds app to be edited. It was only reinstated on Wednesday evening.

Dr Krish Kandiah prompted fury after he criticised Robert Jenrick's Mail On Sunday article, where he expressed concern for his daughters' safety and defended those protesting against asylum hotels

Dr Kandiah was allowed to accuse the top Tory of fuelling fear of the stranger, telling listeners: The technical name for this is xenophobia

Radio 4s head of editorial standards Roger Mahony wrote to Mr Jenrick to say he had removed two references to xenophobia from the programme and admit that the language went beyond the segments scope.

The furore raises serious questions about how the programme ended up on air in the first place and about editorial standards at the BBC.

First broadcast in 1939, Thought For The Day is intended as a forum for sharing reflections from a faith perspective on issues and people in the news.

The programme is pre-recorded and is supplied by the corporations religion department rather than the Today production team, the BBC said.

Support for Mr Jenrick came from across the political divide, with Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice writing on X: Delusional lefty filling R4 Today as usual. Trying to smear and label anyone who stands up for British women and girls.

We should be proud of Britain, our traditional values and affirm that our culture is superior to the anti-women misogynistic culture of some other nations.

Robert Bates at the Centre for Migration Control, added: Jenrick echoed the legitimate concerns of millions of people across our country.

'It is no longer up for debate that there is a clear link between open borders and an increasing threat to British mothers, daughters and sisters.

Mr Jenrick hit back to the remarks on X, before BBC bosses apologised to the MP admitting he language went beyond the segments scope

Police officers stand guard as anti-immigration protesters gather in Liverpool, Britain, August 9, 2025

Anti illegal immigration protesters demonstrate outside The Roundhouse hotel, on August 09, 2025

The BBC has been loath to admit, or even discuss, the undeniable fact that young undocumented men from culturally distant societies are breaking into Britain and committing heinous crimes against women and girls.

Instead it chose to broadcast these utterly disparaging comments in a last-ditch attempt to demonise the vast majority of the country who share these views.

The row erupted after Dr Kandiah, who runs the Sanctuary Foundation, a charity to resettle refugees, said: A front-page story in The Mail on Sunday quoted shadow justice minister Robert Jenrick talking about his fears for his young daughters.

'He said, I certainly dont want my children to share a neighbourhood with men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally and about whom we know next to nothing.

These words echo a fear many have absorbed. Fear of the stranger. The technical name for this is xenophobia over the past year, xenophobia has fuelled angry protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers, deepening divisions in our communities.

Dr Kandiah was speaking a day after the number of Channel migrant crossings passed 50,000 since Labour won power last year. He then quoted figures saying the majority of those arriving in small boats are found to be genuinely fleeing war, persecution and famine.

He did not say that the boats cross from France  a safe country.

Police officers separate counter protesters and those taking part in a Stand Up To Racism rally outside the Britannia International Hotel on August 8

In his letter to Mr Jenrick, Mr Mahony wrote: Following discussion of the programme with the production team, I have concluded that, while its reflection on fear in society from a faith perspective is broadly in line with expectations of Thought For The Day, some of the language it used went beyond that.

I have asked for the two references to xenophobia to be edited from the programme on BBC Sounds. Please accept my apology for their original inclusion.

A Tory source added: Thought For The Day has long descended into a bunch of nobodies wittering on about their mad-hat socialist ideas. If the BBC are not prepared to broadcast serious religious voices they should at least ensure the second-rate ones they do find are balanced.

There are serious questions for the BBC as to how this was allowed under editorial guidelines.

A BBC spokesman said: Todays episode of Thought For The Day contained reflections from a faith perspective on fear in society but has been edited to remove some of the language used and we apologise for its inclusion.
Dr Krish Kandiah, who caused so much controversy on Wednesday's Today programme, runs a refugee resettlement charity.

He calls himself a social entrepreneur, broadcaster and speaker and says he is a 'regular adviser' to the Government.

His Sanctuary Foundation describes itself as a charity supporting refugees to 'find welcome, work and worthwhile housing in the UK'.

The Charity Commission says it raised 122,000 last year while he draws a wage of up to 70,000 from the organisation.

The author has not been shy to wade into other controversies, accusing blonde US actress Sydney Sweeney of 'flirting with the idea of eugenics' over a clothing advert that said she had 'great jeans'.

In 2017, he wrote in the Church Times: 'I'm not saying that everyone who voted to leave [the EU] is racist, but I do believe many have seen Brexit as an excuse to express negative opinions about immigrants.'

Author and refugee charity boss Dr Krish Kandiah prompted fury after he criticised this weekend's Mail on Sunday front page

On the front page, Robert Jenrick, shadow justice secretary, said he worried for his young daughters and defended residents protesting against asylum hotels

In 2014, he wrote in Christian Today that he feared he could have been radicalised like homegrown British jihadist Ibrahim Kamara if he hadn't found Jesus.

Dr Kandiah, who is married with three children and also fosters children, grew up in Brighton and is a committed Christian.

He has not commented on yesterday's furore.
First lady Melania Trump is threatening to sue Hunter Biden for $1 billion after he made the false claim that she was introduced to President Donald Trump by serial pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

The first lady's lawyer demanded that Biden 'immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging and inflammatory statements made about Mrs. Trump.'

The younger Biden had parroted claims first made by Fire and Fury author Michael Wolff, who appeared on a Daily Beast podcast in late July, and said both Epstein and the president were involved with a 'model agent' who introduced Trump to the first lady.

The Daily Beast published Wolff's claims in a story - and has since apologized for it.

The 55-year-old son of former President Joe Biden made a follow-up appearance on Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan on August 5 and let the allegations rip.

'They knew each other well, they spent an enormous amount of time together,' Biden said of Donald Trump and Epstein. 'According to his biographer, Jeffrey Epstein introduced Melania, that's how Melania .. the first lady and the president met.'

In a letter addressed to Biden and his longtime lawyer Abbe Lowell, the first lady's lawyer Alejandro Brito called Biden's comments 'false, defamatory, and lewd.'

'Given your vast history of trading on the names of others-including your surname-for your personal benefit, it is obvious that you published these false and defamatory statements about Mrs. Trump to draw attention to yourself,' Brito wrote in a letter, first obtained by Fox News.

Hunter Biden (left) is under lawsuit threat by first lady Melania Trump (right) after he repeated false claims about her meeting President Donald Trump through Jeffrey Epstein

The letter was dated August 6 and gave the younger Biden until August 7 to comply.

As of Wednesday night, that specific episode of Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan remained on YouTube.

'These false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory statements are extremely salacious and have been widely disseminated throughout various digital mediums,' the first lady's attorney said.

'Indeed, the Video has since been re-published by various media outlets, journalists, and political commentators with millions of social media followers that have disseminated the false and defamatory statements therein to tens of millions of people worldwide,' he continued.

'Consequently, you have caused Mrs. Trump to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm,' Brito added.

The lawyer asked Biden to 'immediately issue a full and fair retraction of the Video and any and all other false, defamatory, disparaging, misleading, and inflammatory statements about Mrs. Trump in as conspicuous a manner as they were originally published.'

The former first son must also 'immediately issue an apology for the false, defamatory, disparaging, misleading, and inflammatory statements about Mrs. Trump,' Brito said.

Six days have passed since Brito's deadline.

Last month Hunter Biden (right) appeared in a three hour-long interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan (left). He gave Callaghan another sit-down earlier this month, where he falsely claimed that it was Jeffrey Epstein who introduced Donald and Melania Trump

The lawyer warned in the letter that if Biden didn't meet the first lady's demands 'Mrs. Trump will be left with no alternative but to enforce her legal and equitable rights, all of which are expressly reserved and are not waived, including by filing legal action for over $1 Billion Dollars in damages.'

'You are on notice,' Brito concluded.

Her East Wing spokesperson Nick Clemens added: 'First Lady Melania Trump's attorneys are actively ensuring immediate retractions and apologies by those who spread malicious, defamatory falsehoods.'

'The true account of how the First Lady met President Trump is in her best-selling book, "Melania,"' he added in a statement to the Daily Mail.

A spokesperson for the Bidens, as well as Biden's attorney, did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's requests for comment.

With his father out of office, the younger Biden has made a number of media appearances in recent weeks, first doing a three hour-long interview for Callaghan's YouTube show.

During that appearance, Biden unleashed f-bomb after f-bomb and explained how to make crack cocaine.

He returned to Callaghan's show for an encore, where he made the statements in question about the first lady and Epstein.

The president has been under fire for works for not releasing more of the Epstein files - backing away from a campaign pledge to do so.

Wolff, who Melania Trump's attorney referred to as a 'serial fabulist,' attached the first lady to the scandal.

First lady Melania Trump (center left) does appear in photographs with Donald Trump (left) and Jeffrey Epstein (center right) and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell (right), but there's no evidence that Epstein introduced the Trumps, as Hunter Biden claimed citing Michael Wolff

First lady Melania Trump, photographed at the Kennedy Center in June, has used litigation threats to eke apologies out of other prominent Democrats over the Epstein claims, including longtime Democratic strategist James Carville

Melania Trump does appear in vintage photographs with her husband and Jeffrey Epstein, along with his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell.

Mrs. Trump has successfully used litigation threats to eke apologies out of other prominent Democrats.

Last week longtime Democratic strategist James Carville said at the top of his Politics War Room podcast that comments made about the first lady were incorrect.

'We took a look at what they complained about, and we took down the video and edited out those comments from the episode,' Carville said. 'I also take back these statements and apologize.'
City accountancy giant PwC is cracking down on staff who work from home too often with a 'traffic light' system that tracks their movements.

Bosses are monitoring whether employees are spending the required three days a week  or 60 per cent of their time  either out with clients or in the office.

The firm will track how often workers swipe their security passes in the office and when their phone or laptop is connected to a client's wifi network.

If they fall below the 60 per cent threshold, an amber light flashes on their screen, switching to red if they drop below 40 per cent, the Financial Times reported. Staff, who are said to be unhappy with the new system, then face being sanctioned at appraisals or having their bonuses cut.

One senior employee said they had 'lost count' of the number of colleagues who had raised concerns about monitoring, while another said workers wanted more transparency as the company began 'pushing hard' to increase attendance.

PwC, whose partners in the UK earned 862,000 on average last year, will make allowances for those who are unable to meet the new rules in certain instances, for example due to sickness or family issues.

The attendance data can be viewed only by the individuals concerned, their business unit leaders and chief financial, administrative and human resources officers.

In April, PwC threatened to sack employees who worked from home too much after it scrapped a policy that let them stay at home three days a week.

City accountancy giant PwC is cracking down on staff who work from home too often with a 'traffic light' system (Stock photo)

Bosses are monitoring whether employees are spending the required three days a week (Stock photo)

The firm will track how often workers swipe their security passes in the office and when their phone or laptop is connected to a client's wifi network (Stock photo)

The shift reflects the view of many businesses that the working from home regime brought in during the pandemic is unproductive. EY, another of the world's so-called Big Four accountancy firms, began using swipe-card data to monitor office entries last year. Rival Deloitte has a more flexible remote working policy.

The world's most powerful banker, Jamie Dimon, chief executive of JP Morgan, has said that working from home 'doesn't work', and some of the UK's biggest employers including Amazon, BT and Asda have ordered their staff to spend more time at the office.

Phillippa O'Connor, PwC's chief people officer, told peers on the House of Lords Home-based Working Committee in April that working in the office is 'better for our business and clients' and helps with the training of new recruits.

PwC is a major employer of university graduates, hiring more than 1,000 every year.

Asked whether PwC would discipline those who refuse to comply, including withholding bonuses or sacking them, Ms O'Connor said: 'This is, as with any other employment policy, something that we would look to follow through to disciplinary action if that were required.'

PwC did not respond to a request for comment last night.
They were once the bane of motorists mostly in the winter months.

But experts are now warning that potholes are becoming a year-round problem, with this summer's heatwaves making the situation even worse.

The AA says baking temperatures weaken road surfaces, leading to a spike in pothole-related vehicle breakdowns.

There were 50,000 such call-outs last month, up 2.1 per cent on July 2024 and reversing the declining trend of earlier this year.

The motoring organisation's president Edmund King said the scorching conditions have 'starkly exposed the fragility' of our roads, despite Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously urging councils to 'get on with the job' of repairing them.

Mr King added: 'While investment and repair campaigns have made a difference, the recent setback illustrates much more must be done.

We urge the Government and local authorities to redouble their efforts in tackling the pothole crisis.'

He said worn tyres and an increase in tourists using rural roads were also to blame for the rise in pothole-related calls, with typical problems including damaged shock absorbers, broken springs and distorted wheels.

The AA says baking temperatures weaken road surfaces, leading to a spike in pothole-related vehicle breakdowns (stock photo)

Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously urged councils to 'get on with the job' of repairing roads

Experts are now warning that potholes are becoming a year-round problem, with this summer's heatwaves making the situation even worse. Pictured: Westgate Road in Beckenham

Ben Rawding of construction equipment maker JCB  which along with the AA is part of the Pothole Partnership campaign group  said the figures show our roads are 'vulnerable' and that we must move away from 'short-term fixes to make lasting progress'.

The cost of fixing potholes across England and Wales is estimated at 16.8billion.

Government funding for local road maintenance in England for this financial year is 1.6billion  a rise of 500million on the previous 12 months.

The Daily Mail has been campaigning for an end to the pothole plague, which is costing motorists millions in repair bills.

A Local Government Association spokesman said 'greater long-term funding certainty' will enable councils to invest in more 'preventative treatments'.

Britain has seen four heatwaves this year, with the latest now forecast to last into next week.

The Department for Transport was approached for a comment.
It's a longstanding tradition that members of the Royal Family serve their country by joining the Armed Forces.

The late Queen Elizabeth II was enlisted as a mechanic during the Second World War and her son Prince Andrew was dispatched in a Royal Navy taskforce during the Falklands War in 1982.

But no deployment as been hailed as dangerous as the tours Prince Harry - who at the time was third in line to the throne - took with the British Army in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban insurgency.

Despite the perilous nature of the deployment, Harry reportedly 'revelled in the simplicity' of army life during his two tours in the wartorn country.

Writing in her biography - The Making of a Royal Romance - royal insider Katie Nicholl looked back on Harry's time in Afghanistan, what impact it had on the Royal Family at home and how the tour was cut short.

'Cornet Wales', as Prince Harry was known, arrived in Afghanistan in late 2007 amidst a media blackout from the UK press in order to keep the 23-year-old prince safe.

Despite the dusty battlefield being drastically different from Harry's life, he settled in quickly.

'Harry's easy nature and sense of humour quickly won him the friendship and trust of his comrades.' Nicholls wrote.

Prince Harry in Helmand province in February 2008. 'Cornet Wales', as Prince Harry was known, arrived in Afghanistan in late 2007 amidst a media blackout from the UK press

Despite the dusty battlefield being drastically different to Harry's life in the Royal Family, he settled in quickly

Indeed, the prince very much enjoyed the 'simplicity and anonymity of this life' and seemed 'more comfortable being a soldier than a prince'.

This was despite not being able to wash and having to spend Christmas Eve in Garmsir - an area of Afghanistan close to Pakistan which was rife with Taliban activity.

The prince would go on to remark that 'Christmas is overrated anyway'.

But back at home on that December 25 there is no doubt that Harry would have been on the minds of the Royals as they celebrated the holiday while the prince was thousands of miles away.

Nicholls wrote: 'The press kept their word and little was made of the fact that Harry was absent from the family's traditional lunch at Sandringham. When the Queen delivered her traditional Christmas Day speech, she poignantly prayed for the safe return of every soldier in Afghanistan.

'Few knew she and the rest of the Royals were feeling the same fear and worry as every other family who had sons and daughters on the front line that Christmas.'

Harry still kept in touch with loved ones. Prince William sent him a letter saying how "proud" their mother would be of him' and he also spoke to the rest of the family once a week in a 30-minute call on a satellite phone.

And Harry's then-girlfriend Chelsy Davy kept in touch with him through Facebook using pseudonyms.

The Queen preparing to deliver her Christmas Day speech in December 2007. As the monarch poignantly prayed for the safe return of every soldier in Afghanistan, she was thinking of her own grandson

Harry in January 2008 in Helmand Province. The prince very much enjoyed the 'simplicity and anonymity of this life' and seemed more comfortable being a soldier than a prince'

Prince Harry and his girlfriend Chelsy Davy in November 2008. They kept in touch through Facebook using pseudonyms

But by the start of 2008 rumours that Harry was fighting on the front line in Afghanistan were beginning to gather momentum.

Despite the embargo on reporting the Prince's whereabouts, an Australian magazine called New Idea chose to report his deployment in January.

It wasn't immediately picked up by the global press until the US media outlet the Drudge Report reported the story making the news impossible to contain. It then 'spread like wildfire', according to Nicholl.

Harry's evacuation plan was immediately put into action and he was given just a few minutes to say goodbye to his fellow soldiers.

The prince said at the time: 'They were upset, they were pretty depressed for me. They were just like "It would be nice to keep you here".'

Nicholl said: 'Prince Harry didn't smile as he descended the steps of the RAF TriStar passenger jet at exactly 11.20am on Saturday March 1.'

Upon Harry's return to the UK, the Daily Mail reported that Harry had been warned he was now a target for terrorists after his deployment was made public knowledge.

Reacting to having to cut his time in Afghanistan short, Harry said he wasn't angry but 'slightly disappointed' because he couldn't 'see it through to the end and comeback with our guys.'

The Daily Mail reporting on Harry's return in March 2008

For his service, Harry was presented with an Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan by his aunt the Princess Royal

Harry during his second deployment to Afghanistan in 2012

Best selling author, journalist and broadcaster Katie Nicholl has been writing about the British royal family for nearly two decades

He later received praise for his service in particular for how he helped Gurkha troops repel an attack from Taliban insurgents.

For his service, Harry was presented with an Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan by his aunt the Princess Royal.

In 2012, he returned to Afghanistan with the Ministry of Defence publicising his second deployment on the understanding that the media would allow him to get on with the job at hand.

Years later Harry would recall his army service in his memoir, Spare, where the Duke of Sussex revealed that he killed 25 Taliban fighters during his second tour of duty in Afghanistan, when he flew an Apache attack helicopter.

Harry, who was known as 'Captain Wales' in the military, wrote that he did not think of those killed 'as people' but instead 'chess pieces removed from the board', or 'bad guys eliminated'.

This was the first time that Harry, now 40, had specified the number of insurgents he had personally killed during his time in Afghanistan.

While many soldiers do not know how many enemies they have killed in combat, the Duke wrote in Spare that 'in the era of Apaches and laptops' he was able to say 'with exactness' the number of insurgents he killed.

During Harry's 2012 tour, he also helped provide helicopter support to the International Security Assistance Force and Afghan forces operating throughout Helmand province.

Based out of Camp Bastion, 662 Squadron Army Air Corps, to which he belonged, flew more than a hundred missions over 2,500 flying hours, providing surveillance, deterrence and, when required, close combat attack capabilities as well as escort duties for other aircraft.

Captain Wales, who qualified as a co-pilot gunner in February 2012, was posted to 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, part of 16 Air Assault Brigade, to gain further flying experience and to operate the Apache on a number of exercises before deploying to Afghanistan in September 2012.
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Overview

One in three students beginning their courses at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) last September - 1,145 in total - came from homes in the most-deprived 20% of Scottish postcodes. This is the biggest proportion at any Scottish university for the ninth consecutive year - a product of a recruitment policy that places value 'not only on qualifications, but on life and work experience'. The latest Times Higher Education impact rankings placed UWS second in Scotland (behind the University of Glasgow) and joint 26th in the world for reducing inequalities. All but 20 of last year's UK intake came from Scotland and the vast majority of them come from the immediate region surrounding the university's four campuses in Paisley, Ayr, Hamilton (home to the Lanarkshire campus) and Dumfries. There is even a campus in London's Docklands offering international business, collaborative health and social care, and professional health studies undergraduate degrees. The university's portfolio of largely vocational degrees has been expanded in recent times to include several graduate apprenticeships spanning everything from business management to early learning and childcare. Healthcare students make up about a third of undergraduates, with those studying computing, social sciences and teacher training also a significant presence.

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Paying the bills

UWS adopts a flexible approach to means-tested funding which responds to individual needs - a reflection of the diverse student intake. The WEST (Widening Education and Supporting Talent) scholarships award 1,250 per year, up to a maximum of 5,000 over the course of a four-year degree, to applicants who have the best answers to questions about why they chose UWS, their greatest personal and academic achievements and how the scholarship would help them. Single parents, carers, care leavers and estranged students are prioritised. The biggest spend for 2024-25 was 897,000 on childcare funds for students whose childcare costs might otherwise prevent them from studying, and 850,000 on discretionary funds to help students meet their basic living costs. The UWS RUK (Rest of UK) Honours Year scholarship keeps the price of a UWS degree the same as those in the rest of the UK for the small number of students recruited from England, Wales and Ireland. Degrees in Scotland typically last for four years, so this scholarship effectively waives the final year of tuition fees, pegging them at 28,605. Students from the rest of the UK and Ireland are also eligible for a UWS Merit bursary worth 1,000 in each year of study if they demonstrate academic potential in their application. University-owned student accommodation is available on the Paisley and Ayr campuses. This is priced at between 3,724 and 6,308 in Paisley for a 38-week contract. At Ayr, all but six of the 200 available rooms cost 4,560 for 38-week tenancies, with the remainder priced at 6,574.

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What's new?

In a university where nearly 60% are mature returners to education aged over 21 when they start their course, and around half come from homes where parents did not go to university, there is a greater need to embed common academic, professional and personal development objectives within undergraduate courses. UWS's Aspire programme aims to do this, empowering students to fashion their own futures. This ambition also drives the university's focus on workplace learning. New courses are informed by external market research, sector benchmarking and input from UWS's industry networks - factors which are also behind the growth in the number of graduate apprenticeship (GA) programmes. Sometimes, the university will even strike out on its own where it detects a need. So, the university's seven GA programmes are complemented by a new and unofficial eighth option in town planning. Although not recognised within the Scottish GA framework, UWS (working with a wide range of organisations including the Royal Town Planning Institute) has moved to plug a skills gap that sees an estimated 700 new planners needed in the next five years. In addition to town planning as a GA and degree option, several other degrees are also being introduced for the 2025-26 academic year, including data science and artificial intelligence, energy and environmental engineering, animal care and zoology, and three business degrees offered jointly with finance, human resources management or marketing.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Life experience, work experience and background are all factored in alongside qualifications held when applications are considered. This is often critically important to the many UWS mature applicants. All care-experienced applicants are guaranteed an offer, or an interview or audition for programmes that require secondary admissions. Contextual offers are typically pitched at two grades below the standard entry tariff for all care leavers and those living in the most deprived 40% of postcodes, for example. More generally, contextual offers are pitched at one grade below standard entry requirements. The university runs transition modules during the summer immediately prior to joining the university to support students coming from under-represented groups. Bespoke ongoing support is also provided throughout their UWS careers, covering everything from academic skills writing to personal wellbeing and financial advice. Once on campus, UWS takes a whole-university approach to mental wellbeing. A student mental health agreement between the university and the students' union actively promotes mental health. All students have free gym memberships to boost physical and mental wellbeing, and there are regular events, workshops and campaigns to support students. A counselling service operates with no waiting lists and the UWS out-of-hours student helpline provides confidential counselling support 24 hours a day all year round.
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Overview

Sheffield has made a return to the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings after a two-year absence and continues to be the top-ranked university in northern England in our guide. Sheffield was shortlisted for our University of the Year title last year. It has formidable strength in engineering, a highly regarded medical school and excellent provision for healthcare courses which have seen heavy recent investment in facilities. Sheffield students are popular with employers; its graduates are the 12th most-targeted by top employers according to the latest High Fliers report. A Russell Group member, Sheffield recruits widely from across the UK, with around one in six undergraduates recruited globally. The city is a popular choice with a strong student culture and easy access to the Peak District. Applications levelled out for admission in September 2024 after four consecutive rises but with around eight chasing every place, Sheffield can pick the brightest. A generous contextual admissions scheme that knocks as many as three grades off standard entry requirements ensures a broad social mix on campus. More than 8,500 bursary, scholarship and financial hardship awards made in 2023-24 help students keep their heads above water financially.

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Paying the bills

The University of Sheffield bursary is paid to students from homes with an annual income of up to 40,000; it is worth 1,000 per year to students from households with an income of 25,000 or less, or smaller annual payments of 500 (income of up to 30,000) and 250 (income of up to 40,000). Students can earn an additional 250 if they meet one of two additional criteria. They must either live in a postcode among the 20% classified as the most deprived and come from homes with an annual income of up to 25,000 or live within the Sheffield city region in an area with a low rate of progression to university and gain ABB or better at A-level (or equivalent). Care leavers and estranged students under the age of 25 qualify for 10,000 annual bursaries, while carers can get 4,500 per year to support their studies. Students who meet widening participation criteria - which include having had free school meals or being from an ethnic minority - and come from homes with an annual income of up to 50,000 can apply for an Experience Sheffield scholarship, worth 1,200 per year for the 250 or so students awarded it. Prices for some university-owned accommodation have gone up by up to 15% this year, among the biggest increases anywhere. However, the cheapest self-catered rooms in shared bathroom houses are still competitive at 4,463 for a 42-week contract. The most expensive studio apartments on a 44-week lease cost 10,577. There are 268 places in catered accommodation costing 7,997 for a 42-week tenancy.

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What's new?

Considerable investment in facilities for students on healthcare courses has greatly improved provision for undergraduates. Sheffield's new faculty of health building offers more teaching space and additional research facilities for the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN). Linked to the current SITraN site, the new building provides teaching classrooms, laboratory space, open-plan offices, individual workspaces and social learning facilities. The university has also developed a suite of dedicated pharmacy teaching spaces featuring a large dispensary, alongside consultation rooms and a community pharmacy counter. Pharmacy students now have dedicated teaching rooms in which to practice clinical skills, a large seminar room and private study areas. Three new mock clinical teaching wards - for medicine, nursing and midwifery students - have come on stream, offering teaching based on real-life scenarios to help students transition from studying to working life as health professionals. And a new hub has been created for students in the School of Allied Health Professions, which brings together nursing and midwifery, orthoptics and ophthalmology, and human communication sciences students in one place. Previously, they were spread across three buildings.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

An expansion of the university's access programmes now sees more than one in six students gain a place with a contextual offer of up to three grades below standard entry requirements. Students admitted under Sheffield's Access+ scheme can qualify for a contextual offer up to two grades below standard A-level entry offers, while students who complete one of the university's widening access programmes or summer schools can get a three-grade reduction. Access+ eligibility includes living in the 40% of postcodes with the highest levels of deprivation, free school meal recipients, care leavers and carers, those estranged from their family and students with parenting responsibilities. As well as receiving a contextual offer, students admitted under Access+ qualify for dedicated support to ease the transition to university. There is also additional careers support for students from under-represented backgrounds. This includes paid internships in the university or within businesses and community organisations in Sheffield for students with limited or no work experience. They also have access to Sheffield Connect, a bespoke student and alumni community networking platform. All students have lifelong access to university careers services. The excellence of Sheffield's student mental health and well-being provision has been recognised by the university mental health charter award from the charity Student Minds, putting Sheffield in an elite group of 17 universities nationally to hold the accolade. All staff are required to complete the university's Supporting Our Students training. It has an NHS general practice surgery as a department of the university, which makes referral pathways and connections between university and medical services particularly strong.
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Overview

The lowest-ranked of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities, Newcastle is nevertheless experiencing record popularity with applicants and near-record admissions. Although it recruits nearly a quarter of its undergraduates from the North East - the English region with the lowest uptake of higher education - Newcastle has strong national appeal; applicants are attracted by both the university's academic standing and the city's reputation for enjoying itself. Its medical school is one of the best and the university aims to further advance its outstanding reputation in medicine and healthcare more generally - its biggest subject discipline. It has recently embarked on developing a 500m health innovation neighbourhood on the site of the former Newcastle General Hospital. This will build on the university's expertise in healthy ageing by creating a living laboratory of intergenerational and later living with interdisciplinary primary healthcare focused on helping residents live longer, healthier lives. A raft of other capital projects and redevelopments on the city centre campus have been completed in the past year which will enhance the student experience. The university will hope these filter through to improved scores in the annual National Student Survey; underperformance here is primarily responsible for Newcastle's disappointing ranking in this guide.

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Paying the bills

About one in four students receives some form of financial support from the university. Newcastle has kept in place an extended range of scholarships and bursaries introduced during the cost of living crisis and further increased its discretionary hardship funding budget by 4.75% in 2024-25. The undergraduate support scholarship complements its opportunity scholarship by extending financial help to students from homes with an annual income of up to 40,000. It pays 500 per year to students from homes with an annual income of between 35,001 and 40,000. The opportunity scholarship pays 2,000 annually to students from homes with an income of up to 25,000 and 1,000 per year to students from homes where income is between 25,001 and 35,000. The university offers dozens of subject and other scholarships - some means-tested but many not - spanning science, agriculture and engineering, humanities and social sciences, and medical sciences. Undergraduate residential accommodation on a 40-week contract ranges from 5,432 for a room in Windsor Terrace with shared bathroom up to 9,240 for a studio in Kensington Terrace or Park View. The new Castle Leazes student village of 2,000 rooms - a unique partnership between the university and private student accommodation provider Unite Students - will be completed in time for the 2028-29 academic year.

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What's new?

The new academic year will begin without the industrial action that spilled across four months of the previous one, leading to the university paying compensation of between 100 and 600 to UK students whose studies had been disrupted. The dispute was resolved in the summer after the university achieved a 20m reduction in its wage bill without having to resort to compulsory redundancies. In addition to industrial relations harmony, students will return to a campus where all student services have been grouped under one roof in the redeveloped King's Gate building. As well as offering social facilities, the helpdesk there will act as a gateway to all student support needs and inquiries, and there will be one-to-one appointment areas for careers and other support. A dedicated hub for student entrepreneurs has been created along with a pop-up shop in which students can showcase their products, creations and businesses to the community. The 110m redevelopment of Newcastle's iconic Stephenson Building has also been completed. Home to generations of engineering students, the new hub will see student engineers, designers and researchers work alongside academics and entrepreneurs to tackle key global challenges. The redevelopment features three research hubs for digital manufacturing, biomedical engineering and sustainable propulsion. It also contains a MakerSpace; a student-centred zone for interdisciplinary collaborations, creativity and entrepreneurship. New degrees in cognitive science, computing and mathematics, and modern languages and international relations are among those to be taught for the first time from September 2025, while a BEng and a MEng in aerospace engineering will be recruiting for a September 2026 start.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The proportion of students who gained their place in September 2024 with a contextual offer rose to 40%, an exceptionally high level in a Russell Group university. Eligible students get offers two A-level grades (or equivalent) below the standard offer, which apply across all subjects. This can rise to three grades for students from under-represented groups who participate in supported entry programmes, such as the university's long-running Partners scheme and the national Realising Opportunities programme. More than 9,000 students have gained a place at Newcastle after taking part in Partners, which includes a residential summer school. Students admitted through this route get guidance throughout the application process and ongoing support during their time at Newcastle. Among those eligible for the scheme are those living in the 40% of postcodes with the lowest rates of progression to higher education or the highest levels of deprivation; ethnic minority students from state schools; pupils attending state schools with below-average attainment at GCSE or A-level; those who have received free school meals; carers and care-experienced applicants; applicants with disabilities, and those whose family have served in the military. The university has advisers in all academic schools as a first point of contact for students in need of mental health or well-being support. Counselling is available in person, by phone or via online and video calls. A distinctive feature of Newcastle's support is delivered via its Psychological Therapies Training and Research Clinic, which offers cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to students suffering from anxiety and depression. Trainee students and staff from clinical disciplines within the university's school of psychology work with student patients. All key staff receive training to help them identify individual needs and connect people to the appropriate support services.
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Overview

Manchester Metropolitan is shortlisted this year for our University of the Year title after another jump up our rankings and outstanding ratings from its students for the support they receive and their wider student experience. No British university admitted more undergraduates than Manchester Met in September 2024. More than 11,500 students got a place, 11,000 of them from the UK. Situated in the heart of the city, Manchester Met is consistently one of the highest-ranked modern universities (those created since 1992) and a 400m campus investment programme over the past decade has provided students with modern facilities and industry-standard equipment. The university offers a broad and largely vocational course portfolio, with business and management hoovering up more than one in five students. It also has a strong presence in nursing and healthcare, creative and performing arts, and computing. A 4.5m success fund should offer financial support to a wider range of students, and the university runs a bespoke outreach programme across the region to attract applications from families with no history of higher education. The university is one of the biggest providers of degree apprenticeships, with 2,740 apprentices working across 17 pathways in September 2024. The university partners with more than 700 UK employers for these programmes, which were rated outstanding by Ofsted in both 2018 and 2022 - making Manchester Met the first university offering degree apprenticeships at scale to achieve this double success.

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Paying the bills

Manchester Met is introducing a new success fund from the start of the new academic year. Students will be able to apply for cash from the pot of up to 4.5m to meet their specific needs, rather than have to fit set criteria. The university expects to make awards of between 200 and 1,500 per year to successful applicants. Applications are restricted to students from homes with annual income of 42,875 or less who must be able to demonstrate need and meet at least one further condition, such as living in a postcode among the 20% considered to be the most deprived, coming from a home with an income of 25,000 or less, being a carer or care leaver, having a disability, being estranged from parents or being a lone parent, or coming from a military family. First-generation students from the North West who complete a pre-entry programme get bespoke support through a bursary worth 1,500 paid over three years, in addition to professional and personal support while studying. More than 600 students gained a donor-funded scholarship, bursary or prize in 2024, among the 40% of students overall who received financial support. More than 3,000 places in residential accommodation are priced between 6,776 for a standard room in Cavendish Hall and 10,164 for a studio in Needham Court, both for 44-week tenancies.

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What's new?

The 115m investment in the Dalton Building, home to the university's science and engineering courses, is the largest single investment ever made in Manchester Met's estate - and part of a 400m spend over the past decade on campus infrastructure. The aim is to advance STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and research in key areas such as health and well-being, sustainable energy, advanced materials and manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. The building offers students an environment that mirrors what they will find when they graduate and move into industry, with students, staff and business partners working side-by-side to translate and transfer cutting-edge research into real-world scenarios. Among its facilities are a light engineering workshop with the latest laser-cutters, remodelled computing and maths, and engineering studios, and a superlab - a modern, open-plan laboratory equipped with the newest tech and designed to allow students and researchers from different subjects to work together. The new building has sustainability at its core with smart ventilation, LED lighting, toilets flushed using a renewable water source, and greenhouses on the roof. A four-year makeover of the university library is also under way. New degrees planned for 2026 include business psychology, psychology with neuroscience, user experience design, international hospitality and tourism business management, and human resource management and business - the latter two degrees offered with or without a foundation year.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Manchester Met is unusual in not having a contextual admissions scheme that cuts the level of grades needed to access its courses for applicants from disadvantaged social and educational backgrounds. Not that it holds it back in terms of diversity on campus with 36% of students coming from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, 22% having a disability and 46% being the first in their immediate family to go to university. Manchester Met favours outreach initiatives such as its first generation scholarship programme to drive recruitment of students from under-represented backgrounds. This is open to students in Years 12 and 13 at schools and colleges in the North West. The pre-entry programme offers practical support and application guidance while at school and then personal and professional support if they go on to take up a place at Manchester Met. As well as a 1,500 bursary, there is also bespoke help to support career readiness. Student mental health support is accessed mostly by phone and email through the university's counselling, mental health and well-being service. One-to-one appointments with specialists are available, as well as timetabled group workshops and courses on topics such as mindfulness, managing anxiety and low mood. The university also subscribes to the SilverCloud online cognitive behavioural therapy programme. All students have a personal tutor who can signpost support services when needed and peer guides are available via live chat online for advice and guidance on all aspects of university life, including settling in and making friends. The students' union provides compulsory induction sessions on sexual consent and bystander intervention.
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Overview

Leicester is one of the best bargains to be had in the annual dash to secure a university place. In exchange for mostly medium-tariff offers, Leicester - our University of the Year last year - offers a high-quality student experience in a bustling multi-cultural city. Students rate the institution highly in the annual National Student Survey, graduates go on to well-paid jobs and teaching is underpinned by a strong (some might say box-office) record in research. This is the university where DNA fingerprinting was pioneered by Professor Alec Jeffreys in 1984; it is also the university that, with others, discovered the remains of Richard III under a Leicester car park in 2013. It takes the requirement for universities to innovate seriously and wants its students to embrace that spirit by being 'Citizens of Change'. The university admitted a record number of students in September 2024, surpassing 5,000 for the first time - a 52% rise on the number admitted in 2019. It is a hugely popular choice for applicants from London, as well as the East and West Midlands. The student intake is multicultural and socially diverse, reflecting the wider city, with white, Asian and black students in almost equal numbers.

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Paying the bills

Seventy-five Citizens of Change scholars benefit from an innovative piece of financial support, designed to reveal the lateral, inspirational and free-thinkers among the university's offer holders, who are invited to write 200 words in response to the statement: 'I am a citizen of...'. The winners are well-rewarded, with the 25 best responses earning 15,000 over the course of a three-year degree, effectively cutting the tuition fee from 28,605 to 13,605. A further 50 winners get 2,500 a year - 7,500 over three years - for their efforts. Leicester's web of financial support assists close to one in three undergraduates overall, and in 2023-24 a 7m pot of bursaries, scholarships and hardship support was distributed. An unlimited number of University of Leicester bursaries worth 1,000 per year are awarded to all students from homes with an annual income of less than 30,000, or to those who live in postcodes among the 20% considered to be the most deprived. The bursary is also open to students who have completed a national or university outreach programme designed to widen participation in higher education. Other scholarships are available for athletes and musicians, the latter earning a one-off 500 payment if they have achieved Grade 6 or above in singing or their chosen instrument. The university has more than 3,700 places available in student accommodation. Self-catered twin rooms in Beaumont, Shirley and Southmeade Houses are among the cheapest in the UK, priced at 3,024 for a 42-week contract for 2025-26. Single rooms cost from 4,872 at Shirley House and go up to 11,466 for the swankiest rooms at Freemen's Common.

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What's new?

Student support has been enhanced in the past year with the addition of the Spectrum.Life and Blackbullion online resources. Spectrum.Life is a 24/7 mental health and wellbeing portal through which students can access trained counsellors by phone or online, while Blackbullion is an online money-management service which offers financial planning advice. The university's Great British Bake Off finalist Josh Smalley, who is also a postdoctoral researcher in Leicester's Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology, is working hard to open up science as a study option to more students through the Science Kitchen. In his university kitchen, Smalley wears both a chef's hat and another as the university's science communication and engagement champion. He raises awareness of the opportunities that chemistry opens up for children through food-related scientific demonstrations, talks and events. Another scientific development has seen Leicester launch its Centre for Digital Health and Precision Medicine. Developed with The Apollo Hospital Group, the research centre wants to transform healthcare through the use of data-driven technology. Meanwhile, the Stoneygate Centre for Empathic Healthcare, launched in April 2023, aims to transform healthcare through human means by putting empathy at the heart of patient experience. To this end, Leicester is currently developing the UK's first medical curriculum to include mandatory empathy modules at all stages of training for its medical undergraduates.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The beefing up of student support with new online platforms (see What's new above) augments the university's own wellbeing service, which offers daily drop-ins and express appointments according to need. A dedicated wellbeing area has been created on campus in which students can relax, while the wellbeing hub offers study and social spaces and a games corner for group activities and making friends. Student support advisers now work in all academic departments, while academic, security and accommodation teams all receive mental health awareness training. The university works in partnership with Zero Gravity, an organisation that helps students from under-represented backgrounds get into selective universities, and then into top-level careers, through mentoring and career accelerators. A global alumni mentoring scheme for all students pairs them with alumni across a range of mentoring support options. A relatively small proportion of Leicester's intake (5%) receive contextual offers of two grades below the standard one, subject to a minimum ask of BCC for those studying three A-levels. Eligible applicants come from non-selective schools that achieve below the national average GCSE results. They must also live in a postcode among the 20% that send the fewest to university. The scheme is also open to those who have received free school meals, are care-experienced or are mature students aged over 21 at the start of their course. Applicants who complete one of several progression programmes designed to break down barriers to higher education for under-represented groups qualify for contextual offers, too.
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Overview

Reading's pitch to be the go-to destination for the environmentally conscious steps up a gear this year with the introduction of 6,000-a-year global sustainability leaders scholarships. These are open to UK and international applicants in any subject who achieve at least AAA at A-level (or AAB if they qualify for a contextual offer). Reading wants to develop the global sustainability leaders of the future by offering students leadership and development opportunities during study. Reading is already one of the top universities for meteorology and climate change studies and sits fourth in the People & Planet rankings for its environmental and ethical performance. Approaching its centenary in 2026, Reading is in a good place with record numbers of applications and admissions. It is a popular choice locally, with about 60% of UK students hailing from London and the South East. The main 320-acre Whiteknights campus offers a sense of calm in this busy commuter town, but the university's estate also encompasses 2,000 acres of farmland and the smaller London Road and Greenlands campuses, the latter home to Henley Business School. By some distance, business and management is Reading's largest subject area, with an excellent reputation for agriculture and animal sciences, too.

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Paying the bills

Reading is pouring extra money into bursaries and scholarships even as many of its rivals are dialling down spending in this area amid significant financial challenges. As well as launching its global sustainability leaders scholarship programme, which sees the first awards made in the 2025-26 academic year, Reading has increased by 400 the value of its annual Reading bursary to 1,500. It is paid to students from homes with an annual household income of up to 27,000 who live in postcodes among the 40% with the highest levels of deprivation or the lowest rates of progression to university. Further bursaries and awards are paid to care experienced or estranged students, and the Julia Boorman award is open to students with a recognised disability who are studying theatre, arts or history. Further subject specific scholarships are also available. These include the 1,000-per-year-of-study Built Environment undergraduate scholarship for students gaining AAB at A-level or equivalent who submit an 'impressive' application across seven construction, building and architecture degrees. And Reading is one of five universities to be part of the PwC flying start degree programme. The four-year BA in accounting and business degree includes a term in each of years two, three and four spent on paid work placement with the firm. The university has just under 5,000 places in student residential accommodation. Self-catered rooms range from 6,322 to 11,970 for a 40-week contract, while accommodation with a meal plan is priced from 6,925 to 11,799 for the same period.

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What's new?

Work is under way across all degree courses aimed at boosting student support and engagement, embedding key skills into degree programmes and making the best use of artificial intelligence. The university is automating the process for collecting and utilising student attendance data to better identify those at risk of dropping out and provide relevant support. Its graduate attributes project aims to express and embed in all courses the knowledge, skills and qualities that students should gain by the time they graduate, so that both they and employers know what to expect. Like other universities, Reading is developing a strategy that recognises the role artificial intelligence (AI) is playing in contemporary student learning. Staff are being empowered to guide students in how to use AI in a way that is appropriate and enhances their learning, without misusing the technology. A new outdoor learning space is being developed on campus to be opened in 2026 as part of Reading's centenary celebrations. This is one of several ongoing upgrades to teaching and study spaces that include new architecture studios, a larger computer lab and a new clinical training suite designed as a mock hospital ward to train students alongside NHS staff. Boosting the value of scholarships and adding new ones is the other key area of investment, most notably with up to 400 new global sustainability leaders scholarships being awarded each year. There is nothing like this 2.4m annual investment in the future of the planet on offer in any other university - and certainly not on this scale. The high-achieving scholars from all subject areas will develop knowledge and leadership skills relevant to address climate and nature issues, take positive action for sustainability, and build networks that will assist them when they graduate if they go on to work in this area.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Reading is expanding the reach of its generous contextual offers scheme - which typically reduces by two A-level grades the standard course entry requirements - to include children of military families and young carers. Already 42% of entrants in September 2024 gained places with contextual offers, made up until now to students from postcodes among the 40% with the lowest rates of progression to university or the highest levels of deprivation, those who have taken part in the Reading scholars outreach programme, applicants with disabilities, and those who are care-experienced and estranged from their parents. Contextual offers are made for all Reading courses except those with an integrated foundation year. Student support is accessible 24/7 via the Wisdom: Learn, Grow, Thrive app and the university has developed a life tools psychoeducational programme of webinars to help students transition to university life, develop personal resilience, and self-manage. Face-to-face appointments are available with welfare, counselling, wellbeing and disability experts and a weekly wellbeing events webpage advertises free and low-cost events on campus and in the local area throughout term time. Reading offers peer support and mentoring, as well as support in student halls. All students are required to take online consent matters and tackling harassment training, which includes a section on being an active bystander, before they enrol.
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Overview

Dream. Discover. Disrupt. The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) challenges its students to think outside of the box - and the latest university marketing handle neatly captures this spirit. With just under 8,000 undergraduates spread across four sites in South-East England, UCA is the second-largest specialist arts institution in this guide, behind the University of the Arts London. And, like its London rival, it boasts a line-up of illustrious alumni - including Dame Zandra Rhodes, Karen Millen, Dame Tracey Emin and last year's RuPaul's Drag Race winner, Nymphia Wind - to inspire the current generation of would-be creatives. Applications are flourishing, with the near-7,000 who applied through Ucas for admission in September 2024 contributing to a total beaten just twice in the past decade. Many students are assessed for their place via a portfolio or audition as well as, or instead of, the traditional grade-based route. There are campuses in Farnham, Canterbury and Epsom and a site at the Maidstone television studios. The three campuses form compact, supportive academic and artistic communities with good student-staff relationships. Courses span most arts disciplines, from acting, animation, body art and ceramics to fashion design, filmmaking, TV production and textiles.

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Paying the bills

One in 11 students qualify for hardship support and associated bursaries, with many more benefiting from the wide range of scholarships on offer. UCA's Financial Assistance Fund is open to all UK students facing financial difficulties, with priority given to those from homes in areas with the lowest university participation rates, mature students, student parents, those from ethnic minority groups, carers, care leavers and those estranged from their parents. There is also a bursary of 1,000 per year available to care leavers, and a full fee waiver for Category A survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire. There are more than 1,200 places available in university accommodation, which are split between Canterbury, Epsom and Farnham. Prices range from 6,004 to 7,409 at Canterbury for 38 and 40-week lets respectively; 6,460 to 7,524 at Epsom for 38 weeks; and 5,016 to 7,524 at Farnham, also for 38-week contracts.

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What's new?

A new BA in body art typifies UCA's innovative and creative approach to the arts curriculum. This unique course, based on the Canterbury campus, admits its first students in September and comes with or without a professional practice year. It is not just a course for wannabe tattoo artists (although tattooing can be taken as an apprenticeship in a licensed studio alongside studying) but also the UK's only degree dedicated to body art as an artistic and cultural practice, encompassing body painting, digital design, printmaking, sculpture, photography and performance art. The main recent infrastructure development has been the opening of The Wells on Church Street at UCA's Epsom campus. The multi-million-pound development comprises teaching studios, workshops, staff offices and student break-out areas for collaborative working across multiple disciplines. It brings the university back to where it all began. Church Street was the former home of Epsom Technical College and School of Art - UCA's predecessor institution in the Surrey town.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The use of portfolios and auditions is a standard part of the admissions process for most courses, which means UCA does not have a set grade or tariff point reduction that is applied when making contextual offers. UCA 'may accept on the basis of a strong portfolio or audition', it told us. UCA seeks to broaden the social diversity on campus through outreach projects which target those under-represented in higher education - especially those in Kent and Medway. These schemes include activities in schools and colleges, spring and summer schools and Saturday clubs. UCA's Cultural Ambassador programme, which is now in its 19th year, is used to engage mature learners, who make up more than one in six of the undergraduate student population. Given the hands-on nature of so many courses, it is no surprise that most teaching takes place face-to-face, and where there is an element of online learning it accounts for less than 20% of any course. Degrees are delivered with the help of industry professionals, and a fully integrated careers curriculum gives students the best possible chance of employment when they leave. This takes the form of industry-facing work experience, professional networking, funding opportunities and career training and development. Students meet regularly with a personal academic tutor and university staff are trained to recognise signs of mental ill-health. The university's central, on-campus, one-stop student support hub, known as the Gateway, provides students with guidance and signposts services. They also have access to 24/7 online support via Spectrum.Life; the myWellbeing app which helps build healthy habits; and Togetherall, a digital peer support platform. UCA is one of a minority of institutions to have a compulsory induction session for students - delivered through its Safer Universities e-learning module - which covers sexual harassment and misconduct, safeguarding, preventing extremism and suicide prevention.
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Overview

There has been heavy investment in facilities at Bedfordshire even as applications continue to fall. The intake via Ucas of just 1,610 students in September 2024 was 47% lower than just three years before. The announcement in March this year that a restructuring of the university was necessary therefore came as no surprise. The university blamed frozen tuition fees, rising costs and declining numbers of international students for the net loss of 80 jobs. All of which is sad for a university that has championed widening access to higher education from its inception. Only 12 universities admit a bigger proportion of their students from homes where the parents have not been to university, and Bedfordshire - headquartered in Luton, a town with high levels of deprivation - offers higher education to many who would otherwise miss out. All applications are reviewed on an individual basis. Students rate their mostly vocational courses highly, with consistently strong scores for teaching quality seen in the National Student Survey. New state-of-the-art simulation facilities for health and social care students in both Luton and Bedford, and cybersecurity students in Luton, will help to give graduates a head start in the jobs market, too.

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Paying the bills

Decisions on student funding for 2026 have not yet been made, but for admissions in September 2025 Bedfordshire makes a strong pitch for academically able students with its scholarships. Its generous Excellence scholarship worth 2,500 a year (7,500 over the course of a three-year degree) goes to all students achieving 128 Ucas tariff points, equivalent to ABB at A-level. Those who get 120 points - equivalent to BBB at A-level - earn a High Achievers scholarship worth 500 a year (1,500 over the course of a degree). There are also sport scholarships worth between 600 and 1,500, and awards for care-experienced students or those estranged from their parents worth 5,700 over the course of a three-year degree (or 7,600 for four-year courses). The university has nearly 1,100 keenly priced rooms in modern, self-catered accommodation, costing from 3,738 for 42 weeks in Fitzroy Court in the Luton student village up to 12,095 for 51 weeks for a studio in the same development. Rooms at Polhill Park, close to the Bedford campus, cost between 5,250 and 6,579 for 42 and 51-week lets respectively.

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The past year has seen the official opening of the Brewster Square simulation suite at Bedfordshire's Luton campus. Named after Annie Brewster, one of the first Afro-Caribbean nurses to work in Britain, the suite is designed as a street with mock houses and flats, a police custody suite, a hospital ward, an operating theatre and a community-based clinic. There is also an immersive room in which projections can be placed on walls to simulate real-life scenarios. A similar facility, featuring two clinical training ambulances as well as simulation areas that include a hoarder's room, a car park, a nightclub and an industrial area with scaffolding, has also been opened on the Bedford campus. The twin facilities will help ease the pressure on NHS placement places, with simulated experiences counting towards students' required practice hours. It's not just health and social care students who are benefiting from a significant upgrade of facilities, however. The opening of a Security Operations Centre in the 2025-26 academic year will provide cybersecurity students with simulated real-world scenarios that will give them experience that is vital in that industry's jobs market. The interactive suite will allow students to play the role of a cyber-attacker to gain insights into the tools, tactics and mindsets of cybercriminals. Bedfordshire topped the latest People & Planet university league table, which ranks universities on their environmental and ethical performance. The rise from third place in 2023-24 reflects the university's drive for greater sustainability by reducing water consumption, offering sustainable food, moving from fossil-fuel-based heating systems to electricity, and refurbishing 1990s buildings with thermal insulation and avoiding demolition.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Bedfordshire makes use of foundation-year programmes as a key tool in its widening-access strategy. Essentially, these give students a place on the course they have applied for with an additional year of study (Year 0) to allow them to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to embark on a full degree. The university's widening-participation team works with schools, colleges, community groups and charities and in other alternative settings to reach potential applicants who come from backgrounds under-represented in higher education. The programme also offers resources to teachers, parents and carers and supports them through a series of webinars. On-campus, subject-specific and taster events are provided for secondary-school students, as well as in-school activities, summer schools, online tutoring and community days. Once at university, students receive a free gym membership to benefit their mental health, while a Get Active programme offers free yoga, spin, circuit and mindfulness classes. All students have a personal academic tutor and each faculty has a dedicated wellbeing lead, while a Wellbeing Fair in induction week signposts the counselling service and mental health and disability support. All new students are enrolled on a micro-learning course on harassment and sexual misconduct which they are required to complete at the start of the academic year.
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Overview

Northumbria University has lift off! The North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST) will open next year, the product of a 50m investment to bring together industry and academia to work on internationally significant space research and technological developments. This new institution is a sign of Northumbria's steadily acquired research clout and a modern university that is taking on the old guard. There will be spin-offs for undergraduates, too, with new courses and the presence of world-leading academic expertise. These are good times for Northumbria, named our Research University and Modern University of the Year two years ago. Applications and admissions were up by a healthy amount for courses starting in 2024, when 56% of the intake was drawn from the North East and 17% from Yorkshire and Humberside. Northumbria is a key player in the regional economy, getting more graduates into skilled jobs in the region than any other university, including local Russell Group rivals Newcastle and Durham. It's a good destination for budding entrepreneurs as well. It also ranked fourth in the UK in 2023-24 for graduate start-ups based on their estimated turnover - the 16th successive year where Northumbria has been placed in the top ten.

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Paying the bills

The Northumbria Undergraduate Award is worth 4,000 paid over three years to students who meet at least one of three eligibility criteria: coming from a home in a postcode among the 40% with the lowest higher education participation rates; being black, Asian or from a minority ethnic background, or having a physical or mental health condition, long-term illness or learning difference. Applicants for the scholarship must also submit 500 words on how the award would support their aspirations to succeed in higher education. There are further bursary awards available for care leavers (2,000 with 54 given out in 2023-24), young carers (2,000, 134), those estranged from their parents (2,000, 90) and those undergoing dyslexia assessments (350, 474). A further 1.2m was handed out in hardship support in 2023-24 to students experiencing acute financial difficulties; a food pantry provides free food with no questions asked and there are designated warm spaces on campus at all times with places to charge electronic devices. A large stock of more than 3,750 places in student residential accommodation is competitively priced with the cheapest rooms in Stephenson House in the Ouseburn Valley costing just 4,434 for a 43-week tenancy. The most expensive studios in Camden Court, close to the main City Campus, cost 9,901 for the same period.

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What's new?

Delivered in partnership with the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin, the NESST development (see also Overview above) is a gamechanger for both the university and the British space economy, putting both at the forefront of innovation in research in satellite communication, weather and space-based energy. Two new degrees launching in September 2026 are tied in with NESST, a BEng/MEng in aerospace and satellite engineering and an MSc in aerospace satellite engineering. Stellar young wordsmiths will benefit from the development of a new centre for writing and publishing which was awarded 5m of government funding this year. The Northumbria University/New Writing North collaboration will bring together partners nationwide from the arts and academia, and the media and publishing industries, providing opportunities for networking, experiential learning and opening doors for young people into the publishing industry. A further collaboration with New Writing North and Hachette, the global publisher, has established an audiobook recording studio on campus. Sounds Good Audiobooks is supporting the expansion of the creative industries in the North East and will provide opportunities for staff and students alike. Experiential learning like this is central to Northumbria's mission as it works towards enabling every student to benefit from it as part of their studies. This helps explain the university's commitment to degree apprenticeships, with more than 2,000 apprentices on campus following a range of programmes for (among others) architects, civil engineers, police constables, occupational therapists and registered adult and child nurses. Two new programmes for social workers and nursing associates have been approved for 2025.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

A quarter of applicants in 2024 received a contextual offer typically at 16 Ucas tariff points (equivalent to two A-level grades) below the standard entry requirements. The offers, which are made in all subjects, apply to all applicants from homes in the 40% of postcodes with the lowest progression rates into higher education; those who have been entitled to free school meals; those who are estranged from their parents; those from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds; care leavers and carers; those with a physical or mental health condition, long-term illness or learning difference; and mature applicants who will be over 21 years old when their course begins. The university provides dedicated support for students from widening participation backgrounds. NU Belong provides personalised support for carers and care leavers and students estranged from their parents, while NU Opportunities is an internal placement/internship scheme which helps those without their own networks to access opportunities. Northumbria runs a neurodiverse transition event, a pre-entry orientation experience ahead of Welcome Week. This is to give neurodiverse students advice and key information in a non-threatening environment. More general mental health and well-being support offers a broad menu of interventions, including counselling, low intensity cognitive behavioural therapy, outdoor therapy and online self-help tools. Psychoeducational workshops cover stress and anxiety, low mood, procrastination, sleep and avoiding burnout.
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Overview

Bishop Grosseteste (BGU) is our University of the Year for Student Support 2026. The award is made following its outstanding success in this year's National Student Survey (NSS), where it topped all three of the NSS-derived performance indicators used in our ranking, covering teaching excellence, student support and student experience. It is student support where BGU truly stands out, offering an environment so far removed from the impersonal, big-city student experience. With only 43 undergraduate degrees and a student population of just over 2,000, BGU can get to know all its students by name. The university is set among the cobbled streets and cathedral splendour of Lincoln and attracts two-thirds of its students from the immediate region, where it is a well-known and respected institution. Travel beyond the East Midlands, however, and it is less known - hence the name change to Lincoln Bishop University from September, incorporating its location in the title. Bishop G, as it is affectionately known (at least for now), started life in 1862 as a small Anglican teacher training college for women. Teacher training remains popular, but options in business, criminology, military history and psychology speak to the diversity within its course portfolio.

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Paying the bills

The university has scaled back the scope of its BGU bursary this year. Student parents, carers and those estranged from their own parents get a 1,000 annual bursary (or 750 if studying for a foundation degree), while students who have spent time in care qualify for a 3,600 annual award. Mature students (those aged 25 or over when they begin their studies) and those whose home address is in a postcode among the 20% from which fewest progress to higher education no longer qualify for support. A student hardship fund paid out more than 150,000 during the 2023-24 academic year to help students in acute financial difficulties. The quality of student accommodation has been ramped up with the opening of the Student Village on Riseholme Road. The most expensive rooms can be found there, with studios costing 8,600 for a 40-week tenancy, while its standard ensuite rooms cost 7,350 over the same period. For students on a budget, the cheapest rooms (singles with shared bathrooms) cost 5,658 for a 46-week contract in the Constance Stewart halls.

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What's new?

The opening of a new Student Village close to BGU's campus suggests a bright future for the university. At a stroke, it has more than doubled its stock of residential accommodation, which has risen to 550. The new 293-room student village is a mixture of eight-bedroom townhouses and apartments with ensuite bathrooms and communal kitchens. There is a small cinema room and plenty of communal green space, too. BGU's campus cinema, The Venue, also reopened in May 2025, providing screenings open to the public, staff and students. The university takes listening to the student voice seriously. It runs its own internal student satisfaction survey annually to monitor student opinion on the quality of the university experience, helping to explain its consistent success in the NSS. A new suite of MA education programmes has been launched this year, delivered via three study modes - full-time (over one year), part-time blended (two years) and part-time online (also two years), aimed at both experienced practitioners and early-career teachers. Two teaching degree apprenticeships have been added for the 2025-26 academic year, joining the existing five options. The primary and secondary teacher apprenticeships (both with Qualified Teacher Status) are expected to swell the number of degree apprentices on campus to about 200.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

BGU operates a generous contextual offer scheme - the terms of which were expanded for admissions this September - with reductions on standard offers of 16 Ucas tariff points (equivalent to a drop in two grades at A-level) for meeting one of the qualifying criteria, or 32 points (a drop in four A-level grades) for meeting two or more. The criteria are broad; they include coming from a home with a postcode among the 40% that send the fewest into higher education, taking part in BGU's Year 12 Next Steps To Study programme, being care-experienced, or having a disability (including mental health conditions, Asperger's or autistic spectrum disorder). Being estranged from your parents, being a young carer or coming from a military family can also trigger a contextual offer. BGU has recently introduced a range of blended and fully online degree programmes in response to demand from students. Blended programmes featuring both in-person and online teaching include several education MA options and a BA in primary teaching studies with Qualified Teacher Status. Mental health advisers work as part of the student advice and wellbeing team within a wider network of support that encompasses academic departments, resident wardens in student accommodation and the campus security team. The university has recruited two part-time twilight mental health advisers to assist students outside of office hours until midnight, and all staff are given basic training in mental health awareness. BGU subscribes to the Togetherall online platform which offers round-the-clock self-help and peer support to students experiencing mental health problems.
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Overview

A modest improvement in student scores for teaching excellence and student experience in this year's National Student Survey (NSS) have helped lift Manchester into the top 20 of our overall ranking. For many years, the university ranked almost as high in the QS World University Rankings as it did in domestic equivalents. This apparent anomaly arose from the fact that global rankings do not take account of student satisfaction, as measured by the NSS, in which Manchester has previously performed poorly in all sections. Not that poor performance in the NSS has hindered applications, as Manchester has been for many years the most-applied-to university in the UK. However, seven consecutive years of increases came to a stop in 2024, with a 1% drop, and some 9,985 students were admitted out of 92,500 applications. Higher education on this scale creates what Manchester itself calls a 'mini metropolis' for which it is currently trying to cater with a series of 'cosy campus' upgrades, rolled out in seven locations. This includes the foyer of the main Alan Gilbert Learning Commons and the University Place Entrance Drum. Free facilities being added include hot water for tea, coffee and meals; microwave ovens; hand washing and washing-up facilities; and places for students to study or socialise. And the legendary Manchester social scene is, of course, the university's secret weapon. It's a formidable combination.

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Paying the bills

The Manchester bursary was awarded to 5,900 students in 2023-24 at a cost of 11m. It is worth 2,600 per year (a rate increased by 600 this year) for the duration of their course for students from homes with an annual income of no more than 25,000, with a bursary of 1,300 per year (up 300) paid to students where household income is between 25,001 and 35,000. During work placement and study abroad years, there is 2,000 and 1,000 of support available, assigned according to the same household income thresholds. And for those undertaking foundation years in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, biosciences, science and engineering, a bursary of 4,000 or 2,000 is payable on the same basis. A 1,300 per year undergraduate access scholarship is offered to those who have completed an access course at the university, a sum that is doubled if you are also a care leaver or estranged from parents. The cost of living support fund paid out more than 416,000 in 2023-24 to 525 students, averaging about 800 per claim. There are more than 8,200 places in university accommodation available, with more than 800 rooms priced at the cheapest self-catered rate of 4,853 for a 41-week tenancy - considerably cheaper than rooms in several other city universities. The most expensive self-catered rooms cost 15,249 for a 51-week let, while catered accommodation costs between 7,096 and 9,781 for a 41-week contract.

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What's new?

Cosy Campus upgrades - created in response to the rising cost of living - are being rolled out in several locations. During the past year, the University Place Entrance Drum has been refurbished, with the number of seats increased from 55 to 140 to encourage both studying and socialising. Over 50 additional power sockets have been installed for laptop and phone charging. A similar makeover in the foyer of the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons has provided a kitchenette with microwaves and boiled and chilled tap water. A new reception desk welcomes new and returning students 24 hours a day. These developments are putting a human face and adding a softer touch to a huge university operation. This extends even to the carpets in the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons, which have been replaced with new ones with a deeper pile and more muted colours (with all the old carpets recycled). Booth Street East, Manchester's first zero emissions building, has been renovated to include a hyflex teaching space, which will enable hybrid learning with moveable, flexible seating and tables, and numerous screens fitted with the latest audiovisual technology. The refurbishment of another 550 bed spaces in the Whitworth Park student accommodation development will be completed over the summer to add to the 300 beds and all communal areas that were made over in summer 2024. A new BSc in fashion product innovation is the only new degree added to Manchester's academic portfolio from September 2025.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Just six of the 24 highly selective Russell Group universities admit more first generation students (those whose parents have not gone to university) than Manchester. The university achieves this diversity through strong financial support structures and a contextual admissions scheme that cuts between one and three grades from standard entry requirements depending on the course and eligibility criteria satisfied. Completion of the Manchester access programme, a widening participation scheme for Year 12 pupils in Greater Manchester, can earn a two grade discount. Students living in an area of low progression to university or high deprivation and those attending schools with below average GCSE and A-level results qualify for a one-grade discount, rising to two grades if the standard admissions requirements are A*A*A*. A three grade discount on courses asking for A*A*A* is made if candidates are also care leavers. Encouraging students to take part in peer support, volunteering and the university's Stellify personal development award all play a key part in further advancing social mobility on campus. Mental health and well-being support is provided within a 'stepped care' framework to match the level of support to the level of need. The university runs positive preventative well-being initiatives and offers pastoral support in academic schools and student residences, while its counselling and mental health service offers comprehensive interventions. These include one-to-one sessions, psychoeducational workshops and therapeutic groups. Students also have access to a 24/7 counselling phoneline and app. From September 2025, all foundation year and first year students will be required to undertake a sexual consent course called Campus Life, offered through an external provider. The university is also developing a harassment module covering racial, sexual and social tolerance, which will also be compulsory for new undergraduate students from this year.
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Overview

University College London (UCL) is runner-up for our University of the Year award this year after another exceptional performance in our rankings. UCL has an extensive programme of celebrations planned for its bicentenary in 2026. And with good cause. Ranked fifth in the UK in our ranking and ninth in the world in the latest QS World University Rankings, a place at UCL is coveted the world over. International recruits make up the majority of the intake even after the near-30% increase in domestic admissions in 2024, which saw more than 1,000 additional UK undergraduates admitted. Now with two London campuses - the original Bloomsbury base in the heart of London's West End and the new UCL East in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park - it is not hard to see why a record near-80,000 applications were received last year, double the number in 2015. A key part of UCL's 2022-27 strategic plan will see the largest ever expansion of extra-curricular experiences. Academic excellence spans the arts, sciences, engineering, medicine and social sciences. Despite stiff competition for places, almost one in three students gained a place in 2024 via a contextual offer, generally pitched at one or two A-level grades below standard entry requirements. And 13m of financial support goes some way towards offsetting the exorbitant costs of studying in the capital.

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Paying the bills

UCL's undergraduate bursary is paid to all UK students from homes with an annual income of 42,875 or less. Tiered payments see 3,000 per year paid to students from homes where income is no more than 16,000, dropping to 2,000 per year (up to 25,000 annual income), then 1,500 per year (up to 37,000) and 1,000 per year (up to 42,875). In addition, accommodation bursaries of 1,112 are given to students living in UCL-owned rooms who receive any level of UCL bursary in their first year of study. This rises to 1,668 if they also gained their place through an Access UCL contextual offer. Receiving an Access UCL offer alone qualifies first-years for a 556 accommodation discount. Care leavers and students estranged from their parents qualify for a 1,000 per year bursary and several scholarships can be earned in addition. Selection is based primarily on financial need, but can also include academic merit, leadership and/or subject-specific criteria. Prices for UCL self-catered rooms cost from 6,224 to 15,102 for a 39-week undergraduate tenancy. Catered halls range in price from 9,293 to 16,781 for 39 weeks.

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UCL's bicentenary celebrations will be in full swing by the time the new round of applicants joins the university in September 2026. A programme of public lectures, screenings, creative workshops, specially commissioned art installations and artist-in-residence programmes are planned to highlight UCL's contribution to academic life since its founding in 1826. Among its many claims to fame are being the first university in England to admit students of all faiths and none and the first to enrol women alongside men into university education. Having opened its UCL East base in late 2022, UCL is now concentrating on upgrading its original Bloomsbury campus with renovations to UCL's main Quad and Wilkins Building due to be complete in time for 2026. UCL East is home to more than 50 new cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary degrees, split between two buildings. One Pool Street houses research labs and studios exploring ecology, robotics, urbanism, culture, disability and heritage. A lecture theatre doubles up as a cinema and there is accommodation for 500 students. Marshgate contains teaching areas, fabrication workshops and the UCL Institute of Making. UCL East is accessible, sustainable, and open to the public and sits within the wider East Bank development that also houses Sadler's Wells East, V&A East and BBC music studios. All students will also benefit from UCL's new student life strategy, which aims to expand the number of co-curricular and extracurricular activities available in areas such as sport, the arts and volunteering. New events launched in the past year as part of this strategy include the UCL campus run and swimathon at the Olympic Park, while an expansion of the Project Active: Learn To programme sees more students building new skills outside their courses through structured six-week activity blocks.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Applicants who have attended state schools and who live in a postcode among the 20% considered to be the most deprived or from which the fewest progress to university qualify for an offer under the university's Access UCL contextual offer scheme. Those who have been in care or who are estranged from their parents are also eligible. The offer cuts one or two grades from the university's standard entry requirements, with 31.8% of September 2024's UK intake gaining a place through the scheme (almost double the proportion in 2023). Once admitted, UCL puts support in place to ensure these students succeed. Department leads in each of UCL's 11 faculties focus on reducing awarding gaps and increasing inclusion. Dedicated workshops and activities to support study skills development and to build confidence and a sense of belonging help to ease the transition to university for these students. Broader mental health and well-being support is also comprehensive with UCL one of just 17 universities nationally to have been awarded the Student Minds university mental health charter award for its holistic approach to supporting students. Among the distinctive features of UCL's support is the offer of single-session therapy for all final-year students in their third term, while all students qualify for up to six free sessions of cognitive behavioural therapy or psychodynamic counselling. Student residence advisers, who are postgraduates, provide peer-to-peer well-being support. There are further student adviser staff members in every department who work alongside academic colleagues and personal tutors.
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Overview

Shortlisted for our University of the Year award in 2024 and also named as the University of the Year for Social Inclusion last year, London South Bank University (LSBU) knows what it is about. Founded in 1892 to 'effect social mobility for the people of South London by improving their employment opportunities and providing access to the applied knowledge that would advance their businesses', that mission is largely unchanged today. And it succeeds in delivering it - with LSBU graduates among the best paid in the country and overwhelmingly in high-skilled jobs. Two-thirds of students are on courses sponsored by more than 2,000 employers and the 2,300 graduate apprentices on campus represent one of the biggest populations of their kind. More than 80% of its domestic intake are drawn from the capital and of last year's UK intake 43.1% were of black heritage, the ethnic group least represented on campuses. LSBU is headquartered in Southwark, with two further campuses in Croydon (for business and healthcare students) and Havering (for adult and mental health nursing students). Healthcare students are by far the largest subject population at LSBU and the opening of the Centre for Health, Injury and Performance has considerably enhanced their experience, offering new immersive suites.

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Paying the bills

LSBU introduced a Group Progression Award in 2024-25, which rewards first year students who progress to the university from its wider education business with a 1,000 bursary. LSBU belongs to the London South Bank Group, which also includes Lambeth College, London South Bank Technical College, South Bank University Academy and South Bank University Sixth Form. The combination of higher education, further education and school establishments within the same group creates pathways to university that would otherwise not exist. The university's Student Support Fund is a discretionary fund open to students all year round. In 2023-24 it paid out more than 343,000 to 883 students, yielding an average payment of just under 400 each. A 30% increase in the fund's budget for 2024-25 reflected the ongoing cost of living pressures being experienced by students. More than 25,000 of supermarket vouchers have also been distributed to LSBU students in acute need. A number of scholarship schemes provide further help for small numbers of students and the university offers bursaries for care leavers, estranged students and young adult carers. About 65% of the 1,338 places in university residential accommodation are allocated to first years, but with the vast majority living at home, students across all years who apply to live in can usually be accommodated. The three halls of residence are close to the main campus (and the South Bank's social and cultural attractions) in Elephant and Castle and cost between 6,708 and 11,154 for a 39-week tenancy.

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Healthcare students are the principal beneficiaries of the new Centre for Health, Injury and Performance. This features nine immersive suites that recreate hospital ward and critical care environments with remote-controlled high-fidelity mannequins to replicate real life emergency and non-emergency medical scenarios. The centre has skills labs for developing technical skills including venepuncture, cannulation and catheterisation, and a virtual reality anatomy room. Audiovisual facilities allow live streaming from the simulation suites, allowing students to review their session as well as receive feedback from academics and peers. Assistive technology - vital in an institution where 20% of students are registered as having a disability - is in place to ensure equal opportunities for all healthcare students. LSBU was named as the best university for apprenticeships in the 2024 Apprenticeship Guide Awards. The university has 2,300 earn-while-you-learn apprentices on campus spread across 23 programmes. This is among the most extensive provision in the country and reflects the university's wider careers-focused approach to higher education. Apprenticeship activity is concentrated on five areas: health and social care; engineering and built environment; business, management and professional practice; digital and marketing; and surveying and property, with a plethora of choices in each.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

To say LSBU has a diverse and socially inclusive intake barely does justice to its efforts to make higher education accessible to all. Two thirds of its 2022-23 undergraduate intake had previously been eligible for free school meals; 39% were mature (aged over 21 when their courses began); 56% came from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds; 59% came from the 40% of postcodes considered to be the most deprived, and 20% reported a disability. These figures are no accident. By working extensively with schools, colleges and community organisations, LSBU seeks to first encourage students to aspire to go to university and then, through outreach programmes, provide the support and guidance to turn aspiration into achievement. Fair admissions do not rely on making contextual offers, reducing standard entry requirements to take account of disadvantage. All applications are reviewed based on individual merit and if an applicant falls short of standard entry criteria, LSBU reviews GCSE-level qualifications, personal statements and interview/audition performance where relevant. Once on board, personal development plans for all students identify specific needs to help them have a successful university experience. The plans cover six aspects of university life - careers; digital and learning skills; independent living skills; study preparedness; personal organisation; and wellbeing, resilience and emotional health. A peer-assisted learning scheme provides cross-year support for students on the same course with the aim of working with 160 students per week. And the university is looking to reduce exams and exploring alternative assessment methods. Modules requiring more than two assessments must now provide clear justification for it. LSBU is working towards achieving the Student Minds University Mental Health Charter award. It has introduced a mental health mentoring service as part of its well-being provision in the past year to complement the existing work of its counselling service.
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Overview

Soas is in a good place. Its income, surplus and net cash inflow from operating activities were all up in 2023-24 when so many other universities struggled. The 2025 edition of the QS World University Rankings rated Soas second in the UK for its ability to attract top academic talent from around the world. And the university enjoyed a record number of applications and admissions for courses beginning in September 2024. The number of freshers admitted through Ucas was 128% higher than in 2018 at 1,675. Its popularity can be put down to the geographic focus of its courses, spanning Africa, Asia and the Middle East, which together encompass many of the world's greatest contemporary economic, political, environmental and strategic challenges. Many courses share a title with those offered elsewhere in UK higher education but little else. So, the university's LLB (law) degree offers course options in Islamic family law, alongside more standard modules such as intellectual property. Other degrees are unique to Soas and the range of language degrees is unparalleled in British higher education. Soas is situated in Bloomsbury, in the heart of London, and close to all the facilities of the University of London.

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Paying the bills

Just under 1,100 Soas bursary annual awards of up to 1,500 were made to Soas undergraduates who live in England (only) in 2024-25. They are paid to students from homes with annual income of less than 25,000, with those with the lowest incomes prioritised alongside those whose homes are also in postcodes among the 20% that send fewest into higher education, first-generation students whose parents or guardians did not go to university, and care leavers. The bursary pays out a maximum of 4,500 over three years of study, so the year abroad in a language degree is not covered. Scholarship support for UK students is limited with one academic excellence award worth 7,000 for students who achieve a pass rate of over 70%, equivalent to a first-class degree. A hardship fund of 150,000 for 2023-24 was split among 151 students who applied in severe financial need. Given the socioeconomic diversity on campus, about one in four Soas students qualify for financial support, mostly the Soas bursary. Students have access to University of London residential accommodation, some of it close to the university's Bloomsbury headquarters with other residences much further afield. Self-catered prices range from 7,360 for 40 weeks in a single room with shared bathroom up to 19,125 for 51-week single studio contract. Catered rooms cost between 10,167 and 16,055 for the same tenancy.

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Soas is the latest university to replace the three-term academic calendar with a two-semester model. The switch takes place from the upcoming 2025-26 academic year, which will be divided into two 11-week study blocks containing 10 weeks of teaching and a reading week. Each semester ends with a revision and assessment period with the assessment periods falling in January and May. The university continues to upgrade formal and informal spaces across campus, which has included facelifting the Denys Lasdun-designed library, adding a new commons area to support informal collaborative study and research. The brutalist-style landmark - one of just five National Research Libraries in the UK and a global resource - contains more than 1.5m books or items in 400 languages, all of them focused on Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Soas makes a pitch to environmentally aware applicants with its 2040 net carbon zero commitment. Tangible evidence of this commitment can be found with the ongoing work to replace gas and oil-fired heating systems in Bloomsbury with air source heat pumps. Working with the University of London and neighbouring University College London, the project will be completed by 2030. A total of 57 new combined honours courses admit their first students for the start of the 2025-26 academic year. Core subjects of film studies, digital media and culture, and creative arts are available with between 18 and 20 different options each.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

'Many of the benefits of university education come alive when we show up in person... when we are on campus, we see that the people we bump into, the questions we can pose, and the conversations we have after lectures are an integral part of the education.' This statement from the university in our annual survey sums up what a high-quality university education can and should look like. It also knocks on the head the idea that watching lectures online could ever replicate the experience of attending them in person - something all Soas students are expected to do. The university offers a study skills service with workshops (covering academic writing, exam preparation, dissertation writing and general academic support) and one-to-one tutorials (offering personalised assistance to enhance students' confidence and academic performance). Mentoring for long-term non-therapeutic support takes place alongside counselling for students experiencing mental health and wellbeing issues. The Spectrum.Life student assistance programme provides 24/7 cover to supplement the university's own face-to-face, phone and email provision on campus. Contextual offers are generally pitched at one A-level grade below the standard offer. For students meeting multiple qualification criteria, a drop of two grades will be considered. Among the eligibility criteria considered are free school meals data; postcode information on university participation and deprivation; whether a student is a carer, parent, estranged or a care leaver; and whether the applicant has served in or comes from an armed forces family. Campus safety measures include compulsory sexual consent and active bystander workshops during the welcome period.
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Overview

Applications are at their highest levels in the past decade as Sunderland consolidates its national presence with the official opening of its London Docklands campus this year. The 11.4m investment in the Canary Wharf area has dramatically altered the university's previously predominant Wearside student profile; Sunderland now recruits a third of its students from London and the South East. What hasn't changed is the university's commitment to social inclusion. Just under 60% of students are the first in their families to go to university, half are mature and about a third come from ethnic minorities. Its medical school is working hard to diversify the traditionally middle-class profession of medicine, too. The university's support for these students - and all others - earned it our University of the Year for Student Support title in the last edition of this guide. Support encompasses many areas here, with financial, academic, pastoral, mental health and careers to the fore. Degrees are vocationally focused and there are more than 800 degree apprentices on programmes as diverse as senior journalist, district nurse, electronic and electrical engineer and social worker. A new teacher apprentice pathway is in the offing.

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Paying the bills

When it comes to financial support, Sunderland targets those who are most likely to be in need; awards are now made in cash. Bursaries worth 2,000 over three years - 666.67 per annum - are made to young carers and those from homes with less than 27,500 of annual income; 1,000 bursaries go to those from homes with income between 25,001 and 47,500. Mature students get 500 over three years. Students who are care-experienced or estranged from their parents get 2,500 a year for a maximum of five years. Medical students from low-income households or from areas with the lowest rates of participation in higher education also qualify for a range of hefty bursaries and accommodation discounts. Those from homes with an annual income of less than 25,000 get free accommodation in their first year and 1,500 in cash, with a further 50% rent discount in the second year and ongoing cash payments of 1,500 per annum, rising to 3,000 in their fifth and final year of study. Up to 130 University of Sunderland scholarships worth 1,000 a year are available to students. These are made not to students with the outright best A-level results, but to those who show the biggest improvement in performance between GCSE and level 3 (A-level and equivalent) qualifications. Sunderland has some of the cheapest university accommodation in the UK with prices starting at 88 per week, or 3,520 for a 40-week contract. Houses for two adults and two children on a 50-week let come in at 10,250.

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What's new?

One of the university's local MPs, the education secretary Bridget Phillipson, opened a new University of Sunderland campus in March - but one closer to the Houses of Parliament than her North-East constituency. It is a mark of the growing reach of Sunderland's educational brand that a 11.4m campus in the London Docklands is one of the university's key investments in the past year. The London campus offers professionally focused courses in business, finance and tourism, as well as health-related programmes such as nursing and health and social care. Recruitment to the campus is strong, with one-third of all admissions to the university now hailing from London and the South East - almost all of them heading to Docklands rather than Wearside. Closer to the mothership, work is under way on a 12.5m redevelopment of the Prospect Library on Sunderland's St Peter's campus, which will become the university's main library in time for 2026 admissions. The MediaCentre's cinema on the same campus has seen 1.3m invested in it to create a state-of-the-art facility for students and the community alike. Alongside these investments, Sunderland is also grappling with the funding crisis which has hit many universities. With declining income in 2023-24 and a drop in its underlying operating surplus to just 700,000 - an 'unsustainable' financial trajectory, in the university's own words - Sunderland announced redundancies affecting one in ten academics.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Sunderland won our University of the Year for Student Support award last year in recognition of the practical support it provides to its diverse student intake. The support spans mental health, student wellbeing and careers. Its Shine A Light project targets ethnic minority students, more of whom are being encouraged to access support services when they need them. Local NHS Talking Therapies services work alongside the university to provide interventions for mental health conditions ranging from the mild and moderate to the more enduring. Mental health and wellbeing support is available around the clock. Students have access to counselling services and some less typical support. Adventure For Wellness provides a range of outdoor activities that can help students make the most of the local environment, from surfing in the North Sea to walking on the North York Moors. Wellness workshops cover sleep, mindfulness, developing confidence in social situations, and stress and anxiety. There is also a weekly lunch club for students with autism. To help keep numbers high and opportunities open for students from homes with no experience of higher education, Year 12 and 13 students who complete the First Choice progression scheme are given 16 Ucas tariff points (equivalent to two A-level grades) towards their application for Sunderland. A reduction in points required for admission is also made to others who qualify for a contextual offer due to their personal circumstances or educational context. The university also runs a contextual offer scheme for applicants to its medical school. A one-grade reduction on the standard offer is made to all students recruited from the North East and Cumbria whose home postcode is among the 40% with the lowest rates of progression to university, so long as they meet normal entry requirements and attain the required University Clinical Aptitude Test (Ucat) score.
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Overview

Applications are booming at Liverpool. One of the redbrick universities founded in the late 19th century, the university retains the civic mission that characterised these institutions at their launch. Committed to social diversity, it recruits 89% of its UK students from state schools, and one third of students come from homes where the parents did not go to university. Its city centre campus adjoins that of Liverpool John Moores University, creating a huge university precinct at the heart of the city. Dentistry, veterinary medicine, nursing, architecture and engineering are some of the subjects the university is best known for. Liverpool demonstrates strength across multiple disciplines, but business and law are among the top picks in our subject rankings. Although popular in its home region, Liverpool recruits strongly from across the UK with 1,170 of the record 6,750 UK recruits in September 2024 coming from London and the South East. Liverpool was one of the Russell Group universities that vastly increased its domestic intake of students last year to offset anticipated falls in overseas students. Numbers were up by 23.7% from the level seen just two years before, beating even the pandemic years of inflated university admissions.

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Paying the bills

The Liverpool bursary offers financial support to students from homes with an annual household income of up to 35,000. Where income is at 25,000 or below, students receive a 2,000 annual bursary, dropping to 750 per year when income is between 25,001 and 35,000. Recipients are also eligible for a 10% discount on first-year university hall fees. Undiscounted accommodation prices in the Greenbank student village or City campus residences typically range from 6,757 to 10,371 per year for a 39-week contract in self-catered rooms. There is a limited amount of catered accommodation available in Vine Court, costing 10,153 for the same length of tenancy. Further bursaries are available for students estranged from their parents (worth 1,000 per year and a 10% first-year accommodation discount), young carers (worth 1,000 per year for those from a home with an annual income of 35,000 or less) and care leavers (3,000 per year with a 10% first-year accommodation discount). The Rigby Enterprise Award, worth 5,000 per year, is open to UK students who come from homes with an annual income of 25,000 or less and who have taken part in a Liverpool outreach programme or the national Realising Opportunities scheme. Alongside the 957,000 paid out in hardship support in 2023-24, Liverpool's student support package totals more than 10m a year and supports at least one in four students.

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What's new?

The highly regarded School of Architecture's extension is due to open in 2026, which will add virtual-reality suites, digital-design suites, collaborative workspaces and a new teaching and exhibition area. In keeping with the university's focus on sustainability, the extension uses sustainable materials which fit with the wider colour scheme of the university precinct in a nod to Liverpool's redbrick heritage. Liverpool ranks 16th among UK universities (and 88th in the world) in the latest Times Higher Education impact rankings, measuring alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The university launched its Interdisciplinary Centre for Sustainability Research last year to support teams of researchers from different subjects within the university and beyond who can collectively tackle the SDGs. The Sir Peter Rigby Centre for Enterprise was opened just last October, too. The Liverpudlian entrepreneur and philanthropist has bankrolled a new scholarship programme (see Paying the bills above) in addition to funding this new centre which provides co-working space - as well as a podcast studio and event hub - for students, graduates and staff to develop ventures and engage with industry experts. Two new BA degrees in economics, offered with or without a year in industry, are planned for September 2026.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Liverpool has one of the more diverse student intakes among the elite Russell Group universities. It has an extensive partnership with local schools, sixth forms and colleges. Schools with higher-than-average numbers of free school meal recipients are among those targeted by the Liverpool Scholars outreach programme. A contextual admissions scheme, in place since 2021, for all subjects except for foundation-year courses cuts up to two A-level grades (or the equivalent) from standard entry requirements for students who are care leavers or who come from homes in the 20% of postcodes with the lowest rates of progression to higher education. Liverpool Scholars participants also qualify for an offer reduced by two grades. The Liverpool Plus programme of pastoral and academic support targets students who have taken part in widening-participation initiatives or who meet certain access criteria. As well as the chance to get paid work as Liverpool Advocates, they are also given priority for work experience and study abroad workshops, as well as a programme of help with transitioning to university and study skills sessions. Pastoral, wellbeing and mental health support for all students is available centrally, through residential advisers, wardens in halls, learning and teaching support officers, and student experience teams within academic schools. Wellbeing advisers act as a first point of contact, offering on-the-day and ongoing help backed up by a programme of group work including anxiety and low-mood clinics. The university's counselling service provides a variety of interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) and art therapy. The university works in partnership with Health Assured, which has a 24-hour confidential phoneline staffed by trained counsellors.
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Overview

Kingston University's pitch to applicants is that its degrees will equip them with the skills that employers say they need. Kingston's Future Skills initiative means students on all degrees will develop and be assessed on nine core skills identified as being valued most by employers. These include creative problem-solving and digital competencies. A record number of students will benefit from acquiring these skills, with nearly 6,000 admitted to the university in September 2024. More than two-thirds of the domestic intake are drawn from the capital - with a largely balanced intake of black, white and Asian students - and there is a sizeable international cohort. Sited in South-West London, students can experience the social and cultural playground of London without all of the cost. The university was one of just 26 nationally to achieve a coveted triple gold in the most recent Teaching Excellence Framework, covering an overall rating, student experience and graduate outcomes. A significant upgrade of the Penrhyn campus is due for completion this year, and 55m was invested recently in improving student residential accommodation. However, the university has not been immune to the higher-education cuts and made several course closures to help save 20m.

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Paying the bills

Some 500 students are awarded a Kingston bursary each year. Worth 2,000 in the first year of study, undergraduates from homes with an annual income of 25,000 or less qualify for the award, bar those studying nursing and midwifery. Further bursaries are awarded to care leavers and estranged students (worth 1,500 per year) and young adult carers (between 500 and 1,000 per year). The Chancerygate Foundation bursary, meanwhile, supports at least one black British student studying building surveying, real-estate management or quantity surveying with a bursary of up to 10,000 per year. The university also offers several scholarships, while those experiencing severe financial hardship can tap into the Back on Track Fund, which makes awards of up to 500 to address short-term financial problems, as well as the Student Support Fund and a Travel Fund. About one in ten students benefits from some form of financial help from the university. Kingston offers just over 2,000 places in self-catered, recently refurbished residential accommodation costing between 5,200 and 16,320 for a 40-week tenancy. The lowest-priced options are some of the cheapest student rooms in the capital.

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What's new?

'In a world increasingly driven by artificial intelligence and technology, developing Future Skills will be vital when navigating and adapting to a rapidly changing workplace after graduation.' This underpins Kingston's drive to equip students with the nine key skills employers say they value most: creative problem-solving, digital competencies, enterprise, a questioning mindset, adaptability, empathy, collaborative skills, resilience and self-awareness. In the first year, Navigate modules help students through a series of workshops to understand the skills they already have. The Explore modules in year two get them working with employers to build their knowledge and skills through live projects, placements and business visits, while Apply in their final year helps them refine and tailor the skills they have acquired to prepare them for their chosen career. Kingston will hope that Future Skills positively impacts its graduate jobs performance indicators which, at present, leave it in the bottom 20 nationally for both the proportion of recent graduates progressing to high-skilled jobs and the number who believe that their careers are on track. New degrees admitting their first students in September 2025 include historic building conservation, 3D design innovation and a BA in education: early years teaching and learning. The number of degree apprenticeship programmes will also nearly double in number thanks to the introduction of midwife and several registered nurse pathways (in children, learning disabilities, and mental health and disabilities).

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The university achieves considerable diversity in its intake without having a formal contextual offers scheme. '[We] consider each applicant on their own academic potential and merit, tailoring offers to individual students and their situations,' the university told us. This clearly works, with more than half the intake coming from homes where neither parent went to university. Just under a quarter of undergraduates are mature returners to education and two-thirds are drawn from ethnic minorities. Kingston's access and participation plan specifically aims to recruit more children of white ethnicity in receipt of free school meals, who are particularly under-represented in the student population. Once at university, students are well-supported. Kingston's Head Start programme takes place each summer to help applicants prepare for the academic and social transition to higher education, while its Elevate initiative upskills students of black African or black Caribbean descent, helping them achieve their full potential. All staff are given mandatory training in safeguarding and supporting mental health and wellbeing. There is a compulsory induction session for students that covers mental health and wider health and wellbeing initiatives, too. The counselling and wellbeing team holds daily drop-ins and offers remote and in-person appointments, and the disability and mental health service runs a weekly social group to help tackle isolation.
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Overview

Nowhere is the disconnect between the findings of the annual National Student Survey (NSS) and the popularity of a university as stark as it is at the University of Edinburgh. Ranked by its own students in the bottom ten of all three of the NSS-derived performance measures in our league table - covering teaching excellence, student experience and student support (with the latter seeing the worst ranking of all universities) - Edinburgh is nevertheless the third most-applied-to university in the country. It makes a welcome return to the top 20 of our ranking this year, better reflecting its global reputation. Indeed, such is the university's standing that well over one-third of undergraduates come from abroad to join some 40,000 undergraduates and postgraduates based on university sites scattered throughout the Scottish capital. Founded in 1583, the university has a long history of academic excellence and is currently a world leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. It is home to the UK's national supercomputer, Archer2, and has developed six new hubs in different areas of data-centric technologies and AI, bringing together academics and industry to drive further innovation. The Scottish capital provides a beguiling backdrop to the mostly four-year courses (the norm in Scotland) and the university offers some of the cheapest student accommodation in the UK, particularly for those willing to share an ensuite room.

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Paying the bills

The university spends around 10m a year on its Access Edinburgh scholarship scheme which pays out to all UK-domiciled students from low-income households, plus those who have spent time in care or who are estranged from their parents. The latter group get the largest sum - 5,000 - with 3,000 paid to those from homes with an income of less than 21,000; 2,000 where income is between 21,000 and 23,999; and 1,000 where income is between 24,000 and 33,999. The sum is paid every year even if a student's family circumstances improve during their studies. If they get worse, however, the sum paid will increase. There are several smaller scholarship schemes targeting different student groups and subjects. With more than 6,200 places for undergraduates in university accommodation, there is plenty to go round. The cheapest self-catered rooms in Nicolson Street and South College Street cost from as little as 3,498 for the eight twin ensuite rooms on a 38-week contract. The next cheapest rooms are 500 ensuite singles priced at 5,687 with the most expensive self-catered rooms costing 11,388 for a 43-week let. Catered accommodation costs from 7,140 to 12,874 for 38 weeks.

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The university has been at the forefront of the development of artificial intelligence (AI) for the past 60 years, with an unrivalled expertise in computer science. This skill-base underpins six new hubs that are at the heart of the university's collaboration with industry: the Bayes Centre, The Edinburgh International Data Facility, the National Robotarium (in partnership with Heriot-Watt University), the Edinburgh Futures Institute, the Usher Institute, and the Easter Bush Agritech Hub. One of the newest hubs, the Edinburgh Futures Institute, was officially opened by the Princess Royal in April 2025, housed in the former Old Royal Infirmary (ORI) after a major redevelopment. The institute will bring together sectors such as fintech, creative industries, tourism and festivals and public services in multi-disciplinary collaborations to tackle issues impacting all sectors. Other infrastructure developments will positively impact the student experience. Teviot Row House, the world's oldest purpose-built students' union building, is undergoing a major renovation that will be completed in early 2026 after which it will be almost fully accessible by wheelchair users. Also due for completion in 2026 is the overhaul of the Edinburgh College of Art campus in Lauriston Place, which will open up new spaces and improve access to student-facing facilities. And as part of Edinburgh's drive to become carbon zero by 2040, a new solar farm has been completed that powers the university's Easter Bush campus, home to the Roslin Institute and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

About one in five students gained their place in September 2024 with a contextual offer set at the minimum entry requirement for the course applied for. This helps bring a university that is among the hardest to get into (with nine applications for every place) within reach for applicants from homes in postcodes with the highest levels of deprivation, those who have attended low attaining schools, care leavers and participants in university and national widening participation programmes. All students from a widening participation background are offered a peer mentor upon joining the university, and a three-day Moving On course is available prior to Welcome Week to help with the transition. Targeted careers and employability support is also offered which includes a programme where Edinburgh alumni offer national or international work shadowing opportunities for students. What the university describes as 'an ecosystem of student support' underpins student mental health and wellbeing. Professional student support advisers work in every academic school alongside academic cohort leads, peer support and wellbeing advisers. The counselling service offers therapy in person, via Teams, by phone or by email, and is registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Residence Life staff are also embedded in student halls to promote wellbeing, build community and help students thrive, while the university chaplaincy's Abundant Academy programme trains students in habits of replenishment, reflection and collaboration to help move them on from being overwhelmed, frenetic or feeling stuck.
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Overview

Oxford features at the top or close to the top of every domestic and international university ranking and attracts the very brightest of applicants. Nearly half of 2024's intake achieved A*A*A* at A-level, although it does not routinely ask for A*s across the board. It places more faith in its admissions procedures - which feature interviews and either subject-specific or general aptitude tests - than some of its rivals, with AAA at A-level being the typical offer. Oxford has taken huge strides to diversify its intake over the past decade. In 2024, 66.2% of new students were educated in state schools (although this was down from a peak of 68.6%), 13.6% came from areas with low rates of participation in higher education (17%), and 14.5% from disadvantaged backgrounds (16%). The proportion of black and mixed-ethnic heritage entrants and those who have received free school meals was up between 2020 and 2024. There are 32 undergraduate colleges spanning the ancient and modern, and traditional and relaxed, and not all subjects are available in each. They offer very different social and educational mixes, too, so it pays to choose carefully. The deadline for application is earlier than other universities, on October 15.

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Paying the bills

Oxford's two principal scholarship and bursary schemes contribute the bulk of the financial awards that see about one in four current students received a non-repayable bursary from the university. Crankstart Scholarships funded by the billionaire financier, Sir Michael Moritz, and his wife, Harriet Heyman, will pay 6,090 in the 2025-26 academic year to students from homes where annual income is 7,500 or less, and (more commonly) 5,250 where household income is between 7,501 and 32,500. The reach of the Oxford bursary is wider. This is paid to students who do not take up a Crankstart Scholarship and those who are from higher income households (up to 50,000) not covered by Crankstart. This will pay 4,200 in 2025-26 to those from homes with income of 25,000 or less, dropping to 3,680 (for between 25,001 and 32,500 income), 3,150 (32,501-37,500), 2,100 (37,501-42,875 income) and 1,050 (42,876-50,000 income). Crankstart scholars and Oxford bursary recipients who have been in care qualify for an additional 3,500 per year and all beneficiaries are eligible for an Oxford Travel Supplement worth 220 per year if they live more than 80 miles from Oxford. This rises to 550 if they live more than 150 miles from Oxford. There are college funds and a 220,000 university pot for emergency hardship support and numerous university, college and departmental prizes and awards for academic achievement, travel and books. Student residential accommodation can often be provided in college for all three years of study with three meals a day for those who want it. Prices for 25 weeks of term for board and lodging vary considerably between colleges: St John's comes in cheapest at 6,418 while Wadham can cost as much as 9,474.

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Two of the largest - and most significant - developments in the university's history will open for the 2025-26 academic year. The Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities brings together teaching and research space for seven of Oxford's ten humanities faculties in one place. The centre was funded by the university's largest-ever donation - 185m from American billionaire Stephen A. Schwarzman. It will incorporate an Institute for Ethics in AI, as well as a new Bodleian humanities library, a 500-seat concert hall, a theatre, a cinema, an experimental performance space, exhibition space and a dedicated schools' outreach space. The development also beefs up Oxford's credentials among today's environmentally aware generation of students as the largest construction project in England to be certified under the Passivhaus standard for highly energy-efficient buildings. Even bigger than the Schwarzman Centre, Oxford's new Life and Mind Building is also due to open in autumn 2025. The 200m life sciences facility will be home to the departments of biology and experimental psychology within its 25,000 m sq of teaching, research and innovation space. Several other projects are ongoing including a new facility for pandemic and vaccine research (remember the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine was developed at Oxford), a Global Health building, and a Global Leadership Centre at the Said Business School. Away from academia, the project to resurface and enhance the Iffley Road running track where Sir Roger Bannister was the first to run the four-minute mile in 1954 will be completed in time for the new academic year.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Oxford has introduced the Astrophoria foundation year for state school students with significant academic potential who have experienced personal disadvantage or disruption to their education and are unlikely to achieve the grades required to make a competitive application for direct undergraduate entry. It sees up to 50 enrol on a supportive and challenging one-year course, which allows them to move on to a full undergraduate degree at Oxford without having to reapply, providing they complete the foundation year to the required standard. Tuition and accommodation are provided for free and a non-repayable bursary covers living costs. Oxford does not offer contextual offers more generally, but seeks to diversify its pool of applicants through several outreach schemes. UNIQ offers 1,300 places each year to Year 12 state school students - 1,000 of them including a residential - who get to work with academics, engage with students and receive admissions support. Priority is given to disadvantaged students, including those eligible for free school meals or living in areas where few progress to university. UNIQ participants (29%) have been more likely to get an offer from the university in the past five years than all other UK applicants (20%). The tutorial system at Oxford, with its emphasis on small group or individual teaching, provides levels of personal and academic support that surpasses that of most universities. Students are well known to staff, and the collegiate structure of the university fosters close-knit academic and social communities. For those with mental health and well-being issues, the university counselling service offers one-to-one counselling, therapeutic group sessions and workshops. About 2,500 staff have undergone mental health awareness training. All new students are now required to complete online consent training, and the university runs a peer-led consent education programme that is delivered as part of college induction weeks.
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Overview

Arts University Plymouth (AUP) was named South West University of the Year at the 2024 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, based on the opinions of its own students. This is reflected in our performance measures, too; its consistently excellent results for teaching quality and student support in the National Student Survey (NSS) would suggest an overall ranking in the top half of our table. But AUP is undone by a predictably poor showing in our graduate jobs and salary measures (ask any creative about lousy pay) and not participating in the last Research Excellence Framework, which predated AUP's elevation to full university status. The former is no surprise and the latter is no hindrance to the record number now studying here. Most staff are experienced practitioners whose teaching is embellished by their extensive experience in the creative industries. AUP is one of five specialist arts universities in this guide. The campus has 13,000 square metres of studios and workshops across four buildings. Facilities are being ramped up and student financial support expanded for one of the most socially diverse student populations in the UK - almost 60% of the intake are the first in their immediate family to go to university.

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Paying the bills

A new materials bursary to help with the costs of artists' creative materials will be introduced in the new academic year. This will pay out 100 in the first year of degree courses and AUP's extended BA, 200 in the second year and 300 in the final year of studies to all students from homes with an annual income of 25,000 or less. This new award will be paid in addition to the long-standing final year award paid to all students to help them with course-related costs as they complete their degrees. The university also pays a progression award of 300, paid in the first year only to students who commence undergraduate study after an AUP pre-degree extended diploma or foundation diploma course. And if you stay on to postgraduate study from undergraduate or pre-degree study, AUP offers a 25% discount on MA and MFA fees. A hardship fund helps those in severe financial difficulties. The university does not own or manage any residential accommodation. Among AUP's recommended private providers, the cost of a self-catered ensuite room in 2024-25 ranged from 101 to 208 a week, while studio apartments cost between 165 and 286 per week.

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A significant expansion of AUP's Fab Lab South West, now on its Tavistock Campus, has created a cutting edge digital fabrication hub for creative students. The upgraded facility offers increased access to computer-controlled milling, 3D printing, laser cutting and experimental making technologies. It brings students closer to the forefront of digital craft, innovation and sustainable design, helping to deliver on AUP's vision to 'prepare graduates who are uniquely placed to provide creative solutions to the complex global challenges of our times'. AUP is also one of a select number of Adobe Creative campuses in the UK, giving all students free access to the latest Adobe software. The university works hard to launch its graduates into the working world even after they have left. The workroom graduate incubation programme now permanently based on campus offers alumni hot-desking space, mentorship and continued access to studios. Alongside this, workroom create is being piloted to provide graduating students time-limited, low-cost, paid access to specialist facilities in areas such as ceramics, glass, metal and textiles to help bridge the gap between education and professional practice. There are no new degrees being added to the compact portfolio of 20 undergraduate programmes, but the university is expanding its postgraduate provision with a new suite of MA design courses in fashion, textiles, built environment and communication design.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Those under-represented on campuses of most other universities are the norm at AUP. Almost 40% of September 2024's intake received a contextual offer. These offers reduce the standard ask of 104-120 Ucas tariff points to between 72 and 96 points - a reduction of 24 to 32 points (three to four A-level grades). All applicants - contextual and otherwise - are invited to submit a portfolio for assessment as well. 'This enables us to make tailored offers that recognise a broad range of relevant experience and creative potential that exists beyond formal qualifications,' the university told us. The combination of both approaches breeds a student population that has nearly double the sector average for first-generation students. Three quarters of the intake come from under-represented backgrounds such as low income households, mature learners, those from areas with the lowest higher education participation rates, and those with disabilities. The relatively small size of AUP allows it to provide 'non-siloed' levels of individual support that other (larger) institutions simply cannot match. Many degree students are known to the institution when they enrol, having already studied on AUP's pre-degree campus. This allows AUP to have a joined-up approach to academic growth and personal development running between the two campuses. More than half the respondents in a recent campus survey identified as both neurodivergent and living with a mental health condition, a statistic which shapes AUP's inclusive support offer. In addition to one-to-one counselling, mentoring and signposting by professional counsellors, students have access to Leafyard, a digital well-being app, and benefit from holistic and therapeutic support, which includes yoga, creative well-being workshops and acupuncture. All staff are required to complete training in the recognition and reporting of signs of vulnerability, including distress and abuse.
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Overview

The Open University (OU) is the ultimate university for widening participation and social inclusion - a pioneer in this area long before the phrases became touchstones for higher education in the 21st century. Delivering its courses remotely from the outset, the OU has a wide reach, with almost 200,000 students enrolled. This unique structure means we are unable to include it in our rankings. Founded by Harold Wilson's 1960s Labour government, the OU admitted its first students - 24,000 of them - in 1971 with its courses largely delivered by sandal-wearing men with beards late at night on BBC2. Today, most course delivery takes place online with all students assigned to a tutor for each module, enabling personal academic support through teaching and feedback. Further assistance is provided by advisers in support teams. Students interact with both their tutors and peers through tutorials, phone and email contact, and online rooms and forums. Degrees cost less than in a conventional university (see Paying the bills below), and there are no living costs to pay while studying. Two-thirds complete their courses while working full- or part-time and a growing number of younger people are turning to the OU, with 35% of students now aged under 25 when they start their courses.

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Paying the bills

Despite a 7% rise in fees in the past year to help tackle an operational deficit that stood at 10.3m in 2023-24, the OU remains an attractive option for those seeking a higher education for lower cost. Modules carrying 60 credits cost 3,892, of which you need six to make up a full degree, putting the total price of a degree here at 23,352, a 5,253 saving on the cost of a degree in a conventional university, which rises to 28,605 from September 2025. OU students qualify for a part-time tuition fee loan, but the OU itself offers a raft of scholarships that can reduce the cost of a degree to zero. Those who are care experienced or carers with a personal income of less than 25,000 a year, and service veterans disabled in or due to military service are among those who qualify for up to 360 credits of free tuition, the number needed for a degree. The Open Futures Scholarship for Black Students offers up to 360 credits of tuition costs to new UK-resident black students with a personal income of less than 25,000 a year. A similar scheme is offered to refugees ineligible for government funding. A student assistance fund paid out the bulk of the 1.64m spent in 2023-24 on students experiencing unexpected financial difficulties. Students can apply for up to 500 per academic year.

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What's new?

In choosing to take an OU degree, you might be compromising on the traditional student social life, but you are not compromising on the quality of teaching. The OU received an overall gold rating in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework assessment, showing that when the OU is judged on a level playing field with its conventional competitors, it can more than hold its own. It won our University of the Year for Teaching Excellence award last year. The course portfolio is constantly evolving to reflect changing student tastes and keep things relevant. From October 2026, a BA in sport and exercise science will be added to the roster, while in October 2025 the first students will enrol on new BAs in business and economics, and business and law (both with lower level diploma and certificate of higher education options), and a new BSc in computer science with artificial intelligence (also offered with a diploma only option). With 7,000 degree apprentices already enrolled, the OU is planning on expanding its offer in this area, too. Current degree apprenticeship programmes include police constable, police community support officer, registered nurse, social worker and digital and technology solutions professional, with a nursing associate higher apprenticeship also available.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

There are no formal entry requirements, although access modules can be taken to help new learners establish whether they are equipped for academic life. Students can study at their own pace, often alongside work and family commitments, building credits over many years, or they can study full-time and complete a degree in three years. About three-quarters of students have no previous qualifications making this the most open access of all universities. Some 26% of students live in the 25% of postcodes considered to be most deprived. The OU tailors its support to its uniquely diverse demographic providing support with study skills, digital skills and access, disability support, building social networks and financial assistance, see Paying the bills above. The OU's careers and employability service helps students - many of whom are already working - to achieve progression to graduate-level jobs when they complete their degrees. When mental health or well-being issues arise, support can be accessed by phone, email and webchat with 24/7 help available online through the OU Wellbeing app, TalkCampus and Shout. Students receive several emails per year outlining how they can obtain mental health or well-being support. All frontline advisory staff (amounting to about 1,000 people) get mental health awareness training as part of their induction. Students are encouraged to talk to any OU staff members they work with who will ensure they are referred to the appropriate support service.
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Overview

Bristol is our Research University of the Year 2026 in recognition of its outstanding research record and reputation. It earned more than 300m in competitively won research grants and contracts in 2023-24 - nearly 100m more than the previous year. Home to the Isambard-AI supercomputer, Bristol is building a formidable record in artificial intelligence. And the 500m Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus development, due to fully open in 2026, will allow Bristol to drive digital, business and social innovation, as well as aid the city centre's regeneration. More than half the intake comes from London and the South East. Bristol seeks to make a Russell Group university education as affordable as possible, offering a string of bursary awards to support disadvantaged students and encourage applications from under-represented groups. It was one of the first universities to embrace contextual admissions, which take account of applicants' educational and social background; an astonishing 44% of admissions in September 2024 qualified for a contextual offer up to two A-level grades below the standard entry requirements. Applications are booming, rising to a new record for September 2024 entry when more than 63,000 named Bristol as one of their five Ucas choices. Despite rising admissions - up 7.6% last year - competition for places is fierce, with the university's reputation for producing in-demand graduates to the fore.

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Paying the bills

The University of Bristol bursary, awarded to more than 4,000 students, is now paid to those from homes with an annual income of up to 50,000 - an unusually generous threshold. The biggest bursary of 2,500 in each year of study goes to students from homes with up to 10,000 of annual income, with the sum dropping to 2,000 (10,001-20,000 income), 1,500 (20,001-30,000), 1,000 (30,001-40,000) and 500 (40,001-50,000). Students can apply for one of up to 50 Futures scholarships and 20 Black Futures scholarships, each worth 7,000 over the course of a three-year degree, which are open to students from homes with an annual income of 50,000 or less. The university also distributed more than 1.5m last year through financial assistance and digital support funds. Accommodation is keenly priced, with self-catered basic twin rooms in Northwell House costing 4,639 for a 38-week tenancy in 2025-26. The most expensive self-catered rooms - studios in Northwell House, Hiatt Baker Hall and Durdham Hall - tip the scales at 11,353, while a studio in Unite House costs 11,390 for 38 weeks. Catered accommodation ranges from 7,283 in a basic twin room up to 13,034 in a studio, also for 38 weeks.

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What's new?

Bristol graduates are in demand. The latest High Fliers survey - The Graduate Market in 2024 - found that Bristol was the fifth most-targeted university among leading graduate employers, ranking above Cambridge and Oxford. And the work of the new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus aims to make Bristol students even more employable. Due to open in 2026, the new teaching and research development will drive forward digital, business and social innovation. Students, academics, businesses, public and private-sector partners, and the local community will work collaboratively there. A key objective is to enhance student employability with opportunities for skills building, networking and learning from real-life challenges. Specialist facilities will include cyber teaching rooms, a financial trading computer room and a makerspace to test ideas and concepts. The university is also developing a research facility to support the university's push towards artificial intelligence (AI) and supercomputing. It is already home to the Isambard 3 and Isambard-AI supercomputers, and four new degrees in artificial intelligence launch in September - a BEng in AI, a BSc or an MEng in computer science with AI and an MEng in computer science with AI with study abroad. Several new modern languages degrees are also being launched in September 2026, studied in combination with subjects as diverse as law, music, politics, theatre and history of art.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Bristol has put in place robust measures to address mental health after a spate of student suicides in recent years. The university invests about 5m a year in wellbeing services and is one of just 17 universities nationally to hold the University Mental Health Charter Award from mental health charity Student Minds, in recognition of its 'commitment to improvement and developing better practice to have a whole-university approach to mental health'. An opt-in system allows the university to contact a designated parent, guardian or friend in the event of serious concerns about a student's wellbeing. This was the first scheme of its kind at a UK university when it was introduced in 2018. Students are also encouraged to take a Science of Happiness module, which gets to the root of what happiness is and how to achieve it. Recent operational changes have freed up extra wellbeing appointments, allowing students to access a range of support more quickly than previously. Teams of personal and senior tutors are there for students in all academic schools and there is 24-hour support in student residences. The university has also developed an NHS-led Student Liaison Service with its city neighbour, the University of the West of England. Contextual offers of up to two grades below the standard entry requirements can be made in all subjects bar the Gateway to Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science programmes. The qualifying criteria include having received free school meals, living in an area with low rates of progression to higher education, being a care leaver or attending a school on the university's aspiring state school or college list.
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Overview

London Met draws the vast majority of its students from the capital itself. Most are based on a large campus on the Holloway Road, in North London, which is in the throes of a significant makeover set to be complete by September 2026. Others are based on smaller campuses in Shoreditch and Aldgate on the fringes of the City of London. After some troubled years, London Met is now on a much more secure financial footing after sterling work by Professor Lynn Dobbs, vice-chancellor from 2018 to 2024. The university is as socially and ethnically diverse as the city it stands in, with black heritage students the biggest grouping in the September 2024 intake, which was the university's smallest in the past ten years. Just under half the students are from homes where neither parent went to university and even more are mature students aged over 21. Courses often include a foundation year to widen access to include pupils without the grades to progress straight on to a three-year degree. Students are split between six academic schools - computing and digital media; human sciences; social sciences and professions; business and law; the built environment; and art, architecture and design.

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Paying the bills

A 370,000 pot of financial hardship support covers the bulk of financial aid offered by London Met to its students. Open to all students - undergraduate and postgraduate - the university sends regular communications to students to advertise its availability. There are no bursaries aside from a care leaver cash bursary worth 1,500 per year of full-time study. Many students are mature returners to education and have children and wider family commitments to juggle alongside studying. So, the university refers students to government support available via the adult dependants' grant, childcare grant, parents' learning allowance, and disabled students' allowances. Means-tested childcare grants cover up to 85% of childcare costs, capped at 199.62 per week for one child or 342.24 for two in 2025-26. The Parents' Learning Allowance is an extra grant to help pay for books, course materials and travel for those with children. An Adult Dependants' Grant provides a maximum of 3,545 support in 2025-26 to eligible students with an adult who depends on them financially; the dependant's own annual income must be less than 3,796. There is no university-owned residential accommodation, but with three-quarters of London Met's students drawn from the capital itself, most students live at home.

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What's new?

Significant milestones are reached in an ongoing ten-year 150million campus investment programme in the next 12 months. London Met's Heart of the Campus project at its main site in Holloway Road should be complete in time for the September 2026 intake. Enhancements include new flexible social learning spaces, improved accessibility and a new main entrance and plaza. The school of arts, architecture and design (AAD) will operate from three sites from the 2025-26 academic year. Shoreditch will be the new home for fine art, fashion and textiles, siting students in one of the capital's principal creative hubs. Photography, graphics and visual communications will be housed in newly equipped spaces on the Holloway campus, with the presence of other digital and computing subjects on campus designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. And a small number of AAD courses will be hosted in refurbished and modernised spaces on the Aldgate campus. Four degrees within the new school of built environment are having a foundation year added to them from September 2025, including real estate, architectural technology, construction management, and quantity surveying and commercial management. Another three foundation years are offered with three wholly new programmes in building surveying, biomedical engineering, and artificial intelligence and robotics, all of them also offered without a foundation year. The addition of a mental health nursing degree following last year's introduction of an adult nursing programme further bolsters London Met's healthcare presence.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

There is no formal contextual admissions scheme at London Met offering lower grades to students who have experienced educational or social disadvantage, but even without a scheme there were just two universities in the country that had a lower average number of Ucas tariff points held by freshers in September 2024. Applications are considered individually, and the university will look to place a student on an alternative course to the one applied for - such as a foundation year - if the entry requirements are thought likely to be beyond reach. Mitigating circumstances such as illness or bereavement are also taken into consideration when reviewing academic attainment. London Met runs a number of aspiration- and attainment-raising programmes to encourage applications from groups under-represented on most campuses. Partners in Education is a programme undertaken with selected sixth forms and further education colleges in the capital to provide bespoke support and activities to prepare learners for university through visit days, school competitions and conferences. Mental health and well-being support on campus is geared to the diverse student intake through a mix of online, telephone and face-to-face provision. A Small Steps, Big Difference campaign runs permanently to encourage students to take charge of their well-being and mental health, and the Centre for Equity and Inclusion sits at the heart of the university's drive to create a healthy environment. TalkCampus offers 24/7 peer-to-peer mental health support online and there is counselling available on campus from the university's own staff. Staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training with safeguarding officers embedded in all six academic schools.
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Overview

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) plays a vital part in the educational landscape of the Liverpool city region. It recruits 38% of its students from the area, which contains some of the districts with the lowest rates of participation in higher education in the UK. Applications for admission in 2024 dipped below 30,000 for the first time in the past decade but the number gaining places held up well. There are two campuses: Mount Pleasant, home to the faculties of business and law, and arts, professional and social studies, and City where health, science, and engineering and technology students are based. It offers more than 200 undergraduate degrees spanning most academic disciplines, and 22 pathways for degree apprentices. The faculty of arts, professional and social studies is the biggest, but healthcare subjects saw the largest number of undergraduate admissions in 2024. The university's supply line of graduates into the NHS and other public-sector areas contributes significantly to the 70% who go on to gain high-skilled employment. LJMU is the most popular English university with students from Northern Ireland, with more than 500 enrolling in 2024. It holds bespoke applicant days in Belfast and runs a customised induction programme.

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Paying the bills

With around half the students being the first in their immediate family to go to university, LJMU has one of the more diverse student populations. Its financial support fund assisted more than 2,500 students last year with an average payment of more than 700 and there are numerous other measures in place to help reduce the costs of studying. The Student Life building is open 24/7 offering a warm space and free laptop loans, refurbished PCs and laptops are available free on a permanent basis for those who apply, gym membership costs only 30 per year and the showers can be used by all free of charge. There are also emergency food vouchers for students in extreme need. The LJMU bursary worth 500 per year is paid to all students from homes with an annual income of up to 25,000. Many qualify. Academic excellence scholarships are paid to students who achieve at least AAA at A-level (144 Ucas tariff points from three subjects). Community excellence scholarships recognise achievement in volunteering, sport, the arts or citizenship, while opportunity scholarships are for students from black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds who have been involved in one of LJMU's sustained outreach programmes. Others include the lucrative vice-chancellor's scholarships worth up to 5,000 a year for five students. These are open to care leavers, mature students, carers, disabled and minority ethnic students from homes with an income below 25,000. Student residential accommodation is priced between 3,969 for a 42-week tenancy in the Marybone residences close to City campus up to 8,316 for 42 weeks in the most expensive rooms in the new Limelight accommodation, close to Mount Pleasant.

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What's new?

LJMU is making a pitch for environmentally aware students with its summer refurbishment of the John Lennon Art and Design building, which it is estimated will save 188 tons of carbon every year. The university secured 1.2million from the public sector decarbonisation scheme to remove all gas boilers from the building and replace them with two air source heat pumps which use electricity instead. Solar panels will also be installed to provide a source of renewable energy, and all fluorescent lighting will be replaced with sustainable LED lights. The university won extra funding from the Office for Students last year to expand further its already extensive degree apprenticeship provision. There are more than 1,200 learners on campus working across 22 different pathways including policing, healthcare, civil engineering, chartered surveying, social worker, youth worker, registered nursing (in several disciplines), nursing associate and business management. Other significant infrastructure projects were completed in the run-up to the university's 200th anniversary in 2023. A new school of education for LJMU's 1,700 students and researchers in this area opened in March 2023, while the Student Life building, which opened at Copperas Hill four years ago, brought all student services, including careers, health and wellbeing, and the students' union, together for the first time.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

LJMU works closely with schools in the region to both raise attainment and aspirations to go to university in pre-16s. And with 60% of last year's intake drawn from the North West region and nearly 40% of admissions coming from Liverpool alone, the university achieves considerable success in this regard. More than 90% of the intake are educated in non-selective state schools, one in five are from ethnic minorities and one in seven are mature students. Students are well supported after they enrol. Student well-being advisers are located in every faculty, offering a first contact point for those in need of mental health support. Centrally, the advice team run a drop-in service which operates from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. The university makes use of two online services to ensure there is 24/7 support for students all year round. It has partnered with the SilverCloud self-help cognitive behaviour therapy programme to provide online support for anxiety, depression, stress, body image problems and other conditions. And it has also signed up to the Togetherall mental health and well-being programme.
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Overview

The University of West London (UWL) aims to make university an attainable goal for the widest possible audience. It boasts 'social inclusion is in our DNA' - and the evidence on campus supports this, with 60% of students aged over 21 when they began their courses in 2023-24 and 48% drawn from ethnic minorities. More than half are recruited from areas with the highest levels of social deprivation, too. UWL is a previous winner of our University of the Year for Social Inclusion title. Getting its diverse student body into meaningful employment is achieved by working with employers, local authorities and professional bodies. It's no accident that UWL markets itself as the Career University - it has close ties with major employers such as British Airways, the Metropolitan Police and De Vere Hotels. Its business links give students access to more than 1,000 part-time, internship, graduate and volunteering opportunities, and UWL's careers service makes a lifetime commitment to its students. The number of degree apprentices at the university is expected to reach 1,500 by September 2026, making UWL one of the biggest providers of this debt-free form of higher education. A further seven options will be added to the portfolio of the existing 25 degree apprenticeships in the next year.

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Paying the bills

The UWL Aspire bursary is paid to most undergraduates, providing funds to students' accounts to be spent on the online UWL Aspire student shop. The 100 annual credit (reduced to 50 for part-time students) can be put towards the costs of books and course materials. In a university with one of the most diverse student bodies in the land, financial support is deliberately targeted at the widest possible audience. Additional bursary support worth 1,000 a year is open to students from homes with an annual income of less than 28,000 (a ceiling raised by 3,000 this year). Care-experienced and estranged students qualify for a 500 annual bursary, and university donors bankroll 55 scholarships which range from 150 performance prizes up to 6,500 annual awards. Student support funds assist those in extreme financial difficulties, including by helping with the costs of hiring academic dress for graduation ceremonies, travelling to graduate-level job interviews, and one-off emergencies. Student accommodation comes via private providers and is not cheap. Contracts for 51-week lets cost between 12,495 and 16,320 for self-catered accommodation, or 17,132 to 20,957 with catering.

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The opening of UWL's interdisciplinary school of medicine and biosciences in 2024 marks a step change in its undergraduate provision and research capacity. Working in partnership with policy makers and front-line practitioners, the school aims to improve health and reduce inequalities in UWL's local communities through initiatives which can be scaled up to have national impact. The school has a particular focus on dementia care; gene-targeted cancer therapy; the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve medical diagnostics and treatment, in particular for cancer and heart conditions; and virtual reality-assisted medical training. The university is embedding AI across its academic programmes more generally with the aim of helping soon-to-be graduates to navigate workplaces which are increasingly underpinned by new digital technologies. The Townshend Studio, which opened last October, serves as a creative space for students, the wider public and a home for the music synthesisers gifted to the university by Pete Townshend, lead guitarist with The Who and UWL alumnus. Eight new degrees begin teaching this September, including sport psychology; sport and exercise science; esports and livestreaming; and a new BA in film, screen and content production, which is also offered with a foundation year. As UWL builds towards having 1,500 degree apprentices by September 2026, new programmes are being introduced for data project managers, data engineers, digital learning designers, machine learning engineers, digital marketers, senior procurement and supply chain professionals, and business-to-business sales specialists.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

UWL operates a flexible admissions policy, welcoming applications from 'all educational routes, and [from] those who meet entry criteria through experience rather than academic qualifications'. Wider relevant experience can be flagged in applications, interviews or other selection activities. Where relevant, UWL will reduce the Ucas tariff points requirement, but only to the extent that 'an applicant's potential to succeed at the university outweighs their contextual disadvantage'. In other words, UWL will not set up students to fail. The outstanding levels of diversity on campus (see Overview above) are the result of these admissions policies. UWL works closely with schools and colleges in its local communities to raise aspiration and attainment. Saturday Clubs, its Young People's Lecture programme and a monthly Apprenticeship Cafe are core to this community engagement. Once at university, all students are allocated a personal tutor and UWL also runs a peer-mentoring service to connect students with fellow students for support. The university runs a range of academic skills masterclasses to help with the transition to university-style essay and presentational work. There are no waiting lists for any of the university's wellbeing services, which include accessible counselling sessions for neurodiverse students. UWL has also increased the size of its welfare team and recruited a specialist homelessness prevention adviser due to the challenges students face when looking for safe and stable accommodation in the capital. Students can be referred for three months of free students' union gym membership to help with health, improving confidence, self-esteem and relationship development, and mental health advisers run guidance sessions on sleep, distraction techniques for intrusive thoughts and mood management.
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Overview

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is our University of the Year for Graduate Jobs as it continues to deliver on its founding mission to be for 'the common weal'. It represents a second triumph for the university after being named Modern University of the Year in last year's edition of this guide. It has been the top-ranked modern university (those founded since 1992) on both occasions. GCU has a relentless focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for students, many of whom come from backgrounds poorly represented on campuses elsewhere. Last September, GCU gave places to more than one in five of the total number of students admitted to Scottish universities from the 20% of postcode districts (SIMD20) considered to be the most deprived. For two years in a row, GCU has had the highest number of SIMD20 acceptances. Which makes the university's achievements in the graduate jobs market all the more remarkable. GCU is among the top 20 institutions in the UK for the proportion of graduates who gain high-skilled jobs, beating many Russell Group universities to boot. It is one of the biggest providers of health, social care and life sciences graduates for the NHS; produces more building and surveying graduates than any other university in the UK; and is the only university to offer a full suite of optometry degrees. It is also Scotland's largest provider of graduate apprenticeships, with eight programmes and 1,000 learners on campus.

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Paying the bills

GCU is among the cheapest universities in which to study for students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Solely by dint of coming from those countries, students get a 2,000 a year Common Good Award, effectively reducing tuition fees in September 2025 to 7,535 a year, with a full 9,535 fee waiver for the fourth year of study that comes with taking a degree in Scotland. Just 70 of last year's domestic intake came from outside Scotland, so the award does not get paid many times but it is a good one. Common Good Scholarships worth up to 1,500 a year are paid to up to 20 students each year from a widening access background and there are further scholarships for engineering and optometry students, travel and tourism students in financial need, and the Thomas and Margaret Rodden Trust pays up to 1,000 to five students in the second year onwards who are facing financial hardship. Around 700,000 was paid out by the university in 2023-24 to students experiencing financial hardship with around one in nine students overall benefiting from some form of financial support during their studies. There are more than 650 places in self-catered student accommodation costing between 5,453 and 6,437 for a 41-week tenancy in 2025-26.

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What's new?

GCU continues to develop its careers offer to students aiming to launch an enhanced Employment on Campus service from the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, advertising graduate jobs, internships, placements and part-time work both online and in the Careers Centre. The centre offers help face-to-face, online and by telephone and provides a range of online tools including a CV builder, video interview simulator, LinkedIn profile building and videos from employers. GCU offers careers support to students for up to two years following graduation. The latest refurbishments of GCU's student residences at Caledonian Court will be completed in time for the new academic year, part of a rolling programme of campus upgrades to classrooms, lecture theatres and laboratories designed to create the optimal environment for studying and socialising. The updates will also help the university as it works towards its goal of achieving net-zero by 2040.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

GCU does more than any other Scottish university to break down the barriers to higher education. The sheer numbers of students from under-represented backgrounds prove the point, but the university's commitment to them extends way beyond simply attracting them in the first place. 'Access isn't simply outreach,' the university told us. 'It is a universal feature of our university. It requires a culture of understanding and knowledge, along with investment in support that enables student success in order that they are in a position to make a significant contribution to sustainable economic growth.' One in five entrants last year qualified for a contextual offer set at the minimum entrance requirements for a given programme. Eligible students included those from homes in the most deprived 20% of Scottish postcodes, care leavers and young carers. All students are assigned a personal tutor, who will help them develop personal, academic, and professional skills, as well as being a first contact point if they encounter difficulties. They help students make sense of assessment feedback, create academic development plans to improve future attainment, and discuss career planning and employability. Support extends into mental health and wellbeing. GCU is the only Scottish university to have earned the Student Minds University Mental Health Charter Award, which rewards best practice in mental health support in UK universities. It was also the first in the UK to achieve autism accreditation from the National Autistic Society in recognition of its support systems for neurodiverse students. The university has a peer assisted learning scheme providing new students with a student mentor from their academic programme. In addition to the support provided by a team of counsellors, mental health and wellbeing advisers and its disability service, the university subscribes to the Togetherall app, which offers 24-hour support.
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Overview

The student intake at the University of Greenwich has almost doubled in size since 2017, with 8,650 beginning courses in September last year and the number of international students increasing notably. In addition to the 32,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students based on Greenwich's three UK campuses, a further 17,000 are studying in partner institutions around the world. The growing student body gives Greenwich the financial security lacking at many other institutions. Both home and overseas students are attracted by one of the world's most spectacular campuses, the Sir Christopher Wren-designed Old Royal Naval College, which acts as the university's headquarters. Socially and racially diverse, the student population truly reflects its cosmopolitan location. Business, computing and healthcare are three of the biggest areas of activity, and the university impressed in the recent Teaching Excellence Framework, securing an overall gold rating when many Russell Group universities didn't. Beyond historic Greenwich, there are further campuses at nearby Avery Hill, where most health and social care students are based, and in Chatham Maritime, Kent, home of the Medway campus and the schools of pharmacy, science and engineering.

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Paying the bills

Greenwich works hard to reduce many of the hidden costs of higher education with the help of some strategically targeted bursary and scholarship awards. All are for students who come from homes with an annual income of less than 25,000. The Greenwich bursary pays 700 towards textbooks, stationery and learning resources. It must be spent in an approved online store and is paid in the first year only. A digital access bursary provides up to 300 towards the cost of equipment to support online learning, and there are commuter bursaries to cover half the costs of monthly home-to-university commuting (up to 1,000 per year). An accommodation bursary takes 10% off the price of annual university room costs, up to 700. With rooms priced from 5,589 for a 40-week tenancy, the bursary can reduce the price to close to 5,000 - a snip in the capital. The most expensive of Greenwich's rooms come in at 14,904 for a 40-week let. The GREat Skills scholarship is worth 2,000 in the first year only to students who have participated in four university outreach activities and who attend one of 300 partner schools or colleges, which are mostly situated in London and the South East.

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What's new?

The constantly evolving courses offered at Greenwich demonstrates a savvy awareness of the shifting needs of the employment market and a determination to provide a pipeline of graduates able to meet them. An already substantial suite of business degrees will be augmented from September this year by new business management degrees with finance or marketing specialisms, a BA in business logistics and supply chain management, and a BA in entrepreneurship and innovation. Mental health nursing joins adult nursing on the Medway campus, and a BSc in mental health and wellbeing is also being introduced. Six new degree apprenticeships are to be added to the 15 current options - including speech and language therapy, paramedic, biomedical scientist and chartered manager. A rolling programme of infrastructure upgrades across all campuses keeps pace with these changes. Laboratories have been refurbished at the Medway campus, as have student residences and the main library at Avery Hill. New classrooms have been added in the Cooper Powerhouse and King William buildings on the Greenwich campus, and the newly acquired Gillingham building on the Medway campus has been converted to provide additional teaching space.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

An extensive outreach scheme targets 300 partner schools and colleges, as well as charity and community organisations, to raise aspirations and attainment and make university achievable for a diverse population. Greenwich makes contextual offers at 16 Ucas tariff points (equivalent to two A-level grades) below the standard offer to students who are care leavers or who live in postcodes among the 20% that have the lowest rates of participation in higher education. Keeping students safe and supported on campus is a priority, with Greenwich being one of the minority of universities to require students to undertake a healthy sex and relationships course, covering consent and active bystander training, as part of their enrolment programme. The course is supplemented by workshops and online interactive sessions during the year to help students understand what consent means, what it looks and sounds like in practice, and how to apply this knowledge in different situations. More general support is provided through the university's mental health, psychological wellbeing, counselling and disability and dyslexia teams. An online wellbeing hub signposts the help available, and the university subscribes to the Spectrum.Life portal, which provides 24/7 mental health and wellbeing support and can offer advice on stress, anxiety, low mood, financial worries and relationship problems. Staff attend faculty training sessions at the start of each academic year, where they get the latest guidance on supporting students with mental health needs, how to refer them for help and what to do in a crisis situation.
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Overview

For the second successive year, Queen Margaret University (QMU) has been voted the top university in Scotland for career prospects. QMU's success in the 2025 Whatuni Student Choice Awards was based on assessments from its own students of its career-focused degrees with strong industry links. Work placements are common, and the university prides itself on producing career-ready graduates. Two-thirds of undergraduates are engaged in healthcare, teacher training and business courses. The university also ranked sixth in the same awards for the quality of its student halls. Success spanning the academic and social side of life at QMU will come as no surprise to the small community of around 4,000 undergraduates. Located just outside Edinburgh, the coastal campus was opened in 2007 and has been the subject of considerable recent upgrades which have improved the learning resources centre. The development of the Edinburgh Innovation Hub on a site adjoining the campus brings research, industry and academics under one roof. The businesses expected to base themselves there will provide employment and placement opportunities for students. QMU serves a socially diverse student community where around half are the first in their immediate family to attend university and just under 40% are aged over 21 when their courses begin.

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Paying the bills

Students based outside Scotland - from the rest of the UK (RUK) - stand a good chance of qualifying for financial support. Just over half of QMU's RUK students qualified for a bursary in 2023-24, which is worth 2,000 to student from homes where the annual income is no more than 20,000, with the sum dropping in stages to 1,500 (from 20,001 to 25,000 annual income), 1,000 (25,001 to 35,000) and 500 (35,001 to 42,600). In addition, the fourth year of tuition fees (four year degrees are standard in Scotland) is waived, bringing the cost of a degree here for RUK students in line with those elsewhere in the UK. A small number of additional bursaries are distributed to student carers, those estranged from their parents, and those from armed forces families. A further 168,250 was spent on hardship support for students in severe financial need. Other initiatives in a similar vein include a food pantry scheme run by the students' union, which gives the neediest students a bag of groceries and recipes for 2 a week. The 800 places in self-catered university residential accommodation are priced between 5,510 and 6,680 for a 38-week tenancy with more than 60% of the rooms at the lowest price.

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What's new?

QMU students can now make use of the facilities of and support offered by the Bright Red Triangle (BRT) enterprise hub at Edinburgh Napier University, QMU's much larger neighbour. The collaboration, which also involves Edinburgh College, is unique in Scotland and will allow budding entrepreneurs in all three institutions to draw on business advice, online and in-person training, workshops and opportunities to turn their ideas into business ventures. Pooling expertise from each institution's key areas of strength means students will be able to receive specialist support in well-being, health, food and drink, creative industries, tourism, design, engineering, construction, computing and artificial intelligence. The partnership will also allow entrepreneurs to collaborate with like-minded students from the other institutions. With the Edinburgh Innovation Hub also opening on land neighbouring the university over the summer, QMU's reputation as a jobs-focused institution continues to build. The hub comprises laboratory, office, meeting and conference space and is aimed at fast-growing small and medium enterprises which may benefit from support and collaboration with QMU. By bringing together research, business and academia under one roof, it is hoped that the expanding businesses will offer work and placement opportunities for QMU students. Students will be further prepared for work by the university's new rotational leadership mentoring programme, which will pair students with four expert mentors, each focusing on a key skill for their specific role or industry to give the students a breadth of workplace-relevant skills to draw upon by the time they graduate.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The university makes contextual offers that are typically two higher grades below standard entry requirements for a given course. About one in three admissions in September 2024 had at least one contextual flag associated with their application. Eligibility criteria include living in a Scottish postcode among the 20% considered to be the most deprived and taking part in or being eligible for the Lothian Equal Access Programme for Schools (LEAPS). Support for QMU students is exceptional and comes from both academics and peers. Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor who acts as a mentor and facilitator. All tutors are trained in how to support students, setting boundaries, expectations and referral routes. Meanwhile, the university's peer-assisted learning scheme (PALS) has become a key part of the QMU student experience, fostering a sense of community and supporting student well-being. PALS sessions are run by experienced students who use their skills and knowledge to help peers who may be struggling academically. The scheme benefits both the mentors and recipients, the former acquiring useful transferable skills for employability. An attendance monitoring system keeps an eye on student engagement, identifying students at risk of dropping out and providing appropriate academic and pastoral support and guidance. Short-term counselling is provided to those in need, with up to six sessions available at a time, and those in crisis are contacted within 24 hours of flagging their problem. QMU's counselling and well-being service provides group work around resilience, compassion and anxiety, as well as awareness sessions in several areas including self-harm, eating disorders, stress management, drugs and alcohol.
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Overview

No university has come closer to going bust than Dundee during the ongoing financial crisis in higher education. A cash injection of 22m from the Scottish Funding Council in March 2025 kept the lights on after administrators warned that Dundee could run out of money by the end of June. The source of the problem is a 35m hole in the university's finances. Within weeks of its disclosure in late 2024, Dundee's then principal, Professor Iain Gillespie, resigned. The university is now looking at plans to shed around one in ten jobs, while 'reconfiguring academic units' and scaling back research. So how did this come to pass? An independent inquiry recently deemed it to be the result of failings in financial monitoring, management and governance. Should students still apply? Yes, but with the awareness that the coming months are going to be difficult. Dundee, which we named our Scottish University of the Year only 12 months ago, has forged an outstanding reputation - notably in the likes of medicine, life sciences and art and design - since gaining independence from the University of St Andrews in 1967. For that reputation to survive, the cuts will need to be both judicious and primarily in non-student-facing areas.

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Paying the bills

Dundee spent more than 1m supporting students recruited from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the 2024-25 academic year. More than 200 of these students earned the Rest of UK (RUK) Bursary, which is worth 2,000 per year and is paid to students from homes with an annual income of less than 25,000. RUK students who achieve at least AAB at A-level - bar those studying medicine, dentistry and education and social work - qualify for a 3,000 annual Academic Excellence bursary, which was earned by 118 students. The Discover Dundee bursary hoovers up those RUK students who don't get top grades, rewarding them with a 2,000 bursary paid in the first year only. Those studying in the schools of medicine, dentistry and education and social work are again excluded. A small number of RUK students qualify each year for a Discover Nursing at Dundee bursary worth 2,250 annually. All the multi-year bursaries are subject to satisfactory progression. As there are no tuition fees for students resident in Scotland - who account for more than 90% of Dundee's UK-based intake - there is a very limited amount of scholarship support. A good supply of ensuite accommodation is competitively priced, ranging from 5,999 for 39 weeks in West Park Villas to 8,999 for a premier room in Belmont Flats. At the time of writing, the principal's former residence and gatehouse was also available via Savills for 825,000 - part of the fire sale of university assets needed to help balance the books.

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What's new?

What's new? An existential cash crisis. While Dundee was hit harder than most by the exodus of Nigerian students from British universities following a collapse in the country's currency, that does not fully explain the university's financial problems. 'Mistakes were made and there were poor investment decisions [and] a lack of discipline, and there was not the appropriate oversight. There were gaps in competence.' That was the candid view of the interim university principal, Prof Shane O'Neill, when he appeared before Members of the Scottish Parliament earlier this year. He has since resigned himself following the publication of the independent report which called out the management failings of senior leadership, of which he was part prior to being appointed interim principal. The university is still working its way through the fallout and will likely have to borrow money commercially to give it the breathing space it needs to get back on an even keel. Only then will it be able to consider where future investments can be made to improve the student experience - an area in which the university has traditionally excelled. The most recent upgrade to facilities saw the top floor of the library completely refurbished, and enhanced workstations, standing desks, semi-enclosed study booths with acoustic panels, and silent study spaces were introduced. There are also kitchen facilities and a calming space to help students study longer and better. When the university will be able to afford the next upgrades is anyone's guess.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Dundee offers several routes into the university for applicants from non-traditional backgrounds. A contextual admissions scheme lies at the heart of its efforts, which cuts the typical standard entry offer of AABB by two Higher grades to BBBB. The exact widening-access grades demanded vary from course to course and some programmes, notably Gateway to Medicine, are excluded. The university's extensive outreach scheme works with schools and colleges from S1 onwards. Its efforts are focused on Dundee, Perth, Fife and Angus, and it regularly lets children visit campus from S3 onwards. It is also a partner institution in the Access to High Demand Professions project, a national schools' outreach programme run by the Scottish Funding Council. This offers subject-specific support to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds with an interest in degree areas where demand for places is high. Once at university, students in need of same-day mental health and wellbeing support can get it from Dundee's Enquiry Centre, which can refer them on to counselling, the university health service or mental health nurses and advisers. Further assistance is available via the student-led listening service which runs throughout the night, while the Peer Connections buddying and mentoring scheme is designed to help students settle into university life. The ResLife team, meanwhile, supports students in university accommodation with welfare issues and encourages social opportunities. A compulsory online induction module for all students moving into university accommodation covers health and safety, respect, consent and where to find welfare support.
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Overview

It takes a university with the global heft of the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) - our University of the Year for Student Success - to be able to resist the downturn in international student enrolments due to the UK's student visa policy. Even LSE had expected a downturn in enrolments, but such fears proved unfounded as the school recorded an increase in tuition-fee income of more than 21m in 2023-24. With a record number of applications last year - amounting to more than 14 for every place - there is no other UK university that can be so selective over who it recruits. The intake is evenly split between UK and international students. A commitment to making the admissions process fair to all meant that one in four UK students offered a place in September 2024 received a contextual offer that cuts the entry requirements by one or two A-level grades. The school specialises in the social sciences, with business, maths and law students also on the books. Its largely pedestrianised precinct in central London is close to theatres, museums and retail distractions. Graduates are well-paid and hugely in demand and it has more alumni who have gone on to run countries around the world than any other university. Wherever you look at the LSE, there is student success.

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Paying the bills

A significant expansion of the reach of the LSE Bursary from 2025-26 will see some students receive four times the grant they would have done previously. All students from homes with up to 30,000 annual income will get an annual bursary of 4,250; this sum falling as household income rises to 3,000 (for incomes between 30,001 and 35,000), 2,250 (5,001-40,000) and 1,250 (40,001 and 50,000). The raising of the income ceiling for eligibility next year from 42,875 to 50,000 makes this now one of the most generous schemes in UK higher education, while students from homes with 40,000 annual income see their annual bursaries rise from 500 to 2,250 in 2025-26. About one in four students are expected to benefit from bursaries, scholarships and hardship support, a reflection of significant diversity on campus achieved despite high entry requirements. There are several scholarships based on financial need funded by external donors. Means-tested accommodation bursaries can cut up to 2,500 off the price of a room in an eligible LSE hall of residence, reducing the price of the cheapest catered rooms to just over 2,000 for a 31-week tenancy for those on the top accommodation bursary. Standard prices for LSE accommodation range from 7,983 to 14,443 for self-catered rooms on a 39-week contract. Catered accommodation can work out cheaper, starting at 4,543 for a 31-week tenancy in a triple room, rising to 12,852 for a single ensuite in Bankside House on a 39-week let.

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What's new?

The LSE is ramping up support across several aspects of student life. Dedicated senior student advisers have been embedded in all academic departments as part of efforts to improve mental health and well-being. They will provide additional guidance for students alongside existing academic mentorship and assistance. The number of well-being advisers, counsellors, mental health and disability advisers have been increased centrally also, together with an enhancement of 24/7 mental-health cover. The school has introduced an 'Ask an Alum' artificial intelligence-powered tool for career support, alongside an increased number of research internships, paid work experience opportunities and a new on-campus hub for the Volunteering Centre. The centre will sit alongside LSE Generate, the school's support centre for student and alumni entrepreneurship. These improved support systems have been rolled out after years of infrastructure upgrades - including the Centre Building, the Marshall Building and the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre - on what is now a largely pedestrian precinct at the heart of the university quarter. Further new buildings are due for completion in 2026 and 2027 at Lincoln's Inn Fields and Aldwych. A new BSc in economics and data science is offered for the first time from September 2026.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Although entry requirements at the LSE are among the highest in the UK, contextual offers - made to 24% of UK offer holders for September 2024 entry - are pitched at one to two grades below the standard offer, depending on the degree programme. Qualification criteria for LSE's contextual admissions scheme are particularly broad and include living in a postcode among the 40% considered most deprived or from which fewest go into higher education; receiving free school meals; taking part in an LSE widening participation programme; or attending a school with below national average performance at either GCSE or A-level. The school's access and participation plan encompasses both strategies to open up access to those from under-represented backgrounds (for example, LSE Springboard for students outside of London and the South East and LSE Thrive for Black heritage students) and then to help them succeed once they get a place (via LSE Navigate, a new network to support students from under-represented backgrounds throughout their time at the LSE). Keeping students safe on campus is a priority and the Consent.Ed at LSE programme is one of the most comprehensive out there covering alcohol and consent, active bystander training, power dynamics, healthy relationships and consent culture. All students are required to complete a 45-minute Moodle online course prior to enrolment and a 90-minute in-person workshop in their first three weeks of term. In addition to the enhancements to student well-being support (outlined in What's new above) the LSE has an established peer support scheme and the warden programme in LSE halls ensures there is support cover overnight and at weekends, in addition to regular events. For students living out, LSE's Off Campus Support Scheme helps students connect with their peers.
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Overview

Enrolments at Aston - our University of the Year for Student Success last year - surged by more than 16% in September 2024. The intake rose above 4,000 for the first time and was 44% higher than just six years before. With more than 23,000 applications for the third successive year, word is getting out about this institution that positions itself to be 'the leading university for students aspiring to success in business'. Aston was one of a small number of universities to secure triple gold in the last Teaching Excellence Framework covering student experience, graduate outcomes and an overall rating. Business, computing, engineering and healthcare subjects dominate the course portfolio. More than 70% of last September's intake came from the West Midlands and the student population is reflective of the local area, with more than eight in ten students being of ethnic minority heritage - the highest proportion at any UK university. Aston takes pride in its diversity and embraces degree apprenticeships, too, with around 1,300 apprentices currently enrolled and following 11 pathways. The university sits in the top 20 nationally for the proportion of graduates who land high-skilled jobs and just outside the top 30 for graduate salaries.

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Paying the bills

The Aston Aspirational scholarship is worth 500 in the first year and is paid to all UK students from homes with an annual income of less than 42,875. Students from homes with an income of less than 25,000 can apply for an Aston Forward scholarship worth 1,500 a year, plus an extra 500 in their first year (5,000 in all) if they can demonstrate 'amazing ambitions'; a desire to create a better world through community activities or business ideas; or having overcome barriers to get into university. Students who are care leavers, carers, estranged or from a military family are eligible for an Aston Support scholarship worth 1,250 a year, up to a total of 5,000. There are also up to six sport scholarships worth 500 awarded annually to students of county-level standard and above. University accommodation is provided through student housing group Unite, which owns the on-campus Aston Student Village. It costs a minimum of 7,464 a year (or 168 a week over 44 weeks and three days). While this is substantially more expensive than the cheapest accommodation at the University of Birmingham and Birmingham City University, the top-priced accommodation at Aston - which comes in at 7,731 a year (or 174 a week over 44 weeks and three days), is markedly cheaper than the most expensive rooms at the other universities across the city.

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What's new?

Aston has embedded what it calls Aston Power Skills into every degree programme. These are the key skills - artificial intelligence and digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability and inclusive leadership - that the university believes employers are looking for and which will cement Aston's place close to the top of the graduate employment rankings. 'Through Power Skills, our students can master AI and the latest digital tools; unlock entrepreneurial thinking; become an inclusive leader and learn to create a more sustainable planet,' the university told us. Aston is one of a small number of UK universities to be awarded Adobe Creative Campus status, which gives students access to the company's latest digital tools for creating graphics, video, web content and photography. A new Student Solutions Centre, opened this February, brings several student services - careers, mental health and wellbeing, finance and visa assistance - together in one place for the first time. The open-plan space has no screens, hatches or counters to allow students direct access to the teams that can assist them. For the fourth consecutive year, Aston celebrated finishing second in the English Social Mobility Index, an analysis of social diversity on campus and the outcomes achieved by students from widening-participation backgrounds, who make up such a large proportion of Aston's undergraduates.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

An extensive outreach programme underpins a recruitment strategy that sees about one in six students gain their place via a contextual offer. Workshops, taster sessions, sustained programmes, campus visits and summer schools all play their part in expanding Aston's appeal to the widest possible audience. Contextual offers - of typically one or two grades below the standard offer - are made to applicants from state schools who meet one of several criteria that include receiving free school meals, living in a postcode that is among the 40% with the lowest rates of participation in higher education, taking an Aston Pathways admissions programme for year 12 and 13 pupils, having a disability and being a care leaver. Once students are enrolled, several mentoring schemes involving fellow students, alumni and professionals provide practical help, while personal tutors offer individual academic support across all years of study. Three distinct teams - mental health and wellbeing, disability and neurodiversity, and the multi-faith chaplaincy - within the university's student welfare directorate give students targeted support, much of which is now accessed via the Student Solutions Centre (see What's new above). All Aston staff are required to complete training on mental health awareness and what to do in a crisis. Aston is among the minority of universities that automatically enrol students on to an online Consent Matters course which educates them on sexual consent, safety and bystander intervention.
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Overview

Goldsmiths is emerging from the financial turmoil of the past two years a leaner, fitter - and still distinctive - institution. 'Different is what we do,' the university proclaims in its prospectus. Many feared that difference and edginess was under attack as the university was forced to make hefty savings by a decline in income and student numbers. Those student numbers remain at their lowest point in the past decade with just 1,635 students admitted via Ucas to courses beginning in September 2024, down from 2,780 as recently as 2017. Applications are at a low ebb, too, but at least the university's Transformation Programme has moved the university on to a sustainable footing. Based on an attractive campus in a happening part of London (New Cross Gate), Goldsmiths has a reputation for turning out some of the country's brightest young creatives. Nine alumni have won the Turner Prize, Britain's premier arts award, since its inception in 1984; Mohammed Sami is the latest to be shortlisted for it. Might Goldsmiths have a 10th winner come December? The 58 degrees offered here don't just span the creative and performing arts. You can study computing, artificial intelligence, politics, economics and marketing, too. A quarter of last year's undergraduate intake came from overseas and a heavy majority of the domestic recruits come from the capital itself. It makes for a socially and ethnically diverse student population - another embodiment of different being what Goldsmiths does.

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Paying the bills

The university targets its bursaries and scholarships on many of the minorities that help make its student population so distinctive. Up to 15 Access Programme scholarships worth 1,000 per year are awarded to students who have gained their places via an Access to Higher Education course for learners without traditional qualifications. Equity Awards worth 3,000 a year are made to up to 30 black, mixed race, Asian, Arab or traveller students from homes with less than 35,000 annual income. Priority criteria that include living in Lewisham (Goldsmiths' home borough) for three years prior to coming to the university are also taken into consideration. Further support for students recruited locally is available via the Lewisham Borough fee waivers scheme, which sees up to five students from homes with an income of less than 35,000 get full tuition-fee waivers of 28,605, based on their application form answers. New Cross Fire bursaries are worth 1,500 per year and are open to up to five Lewisham residents from minority ethnic backgrounds with household incomes of less than 35,000. The bursaries, paid by Lewisham council, commemorate the 14 young people who died at a party in a suspected racially motivated arson attack in the borough in 1981. Travel bursaries covering the cost of commuting from students' homes to Goldsmiths are paid to up to 10 students. The 1,300 places in university-owned or Goldsmiths-reserved accommodation are priced from 7,686 for the cheapest rooms in Surrey House on a 42-week contract, rising to 17,157 for a large studio in Town Hall Camberwell, Goldsmiths' ritziest accommodation, over the same period.

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What's new?

Just in time for its 120th birthday this autumn, Goldsmiths has reorganised and come up with a new strategic direction under warden Professor Frances Corner. No matter that this was forced on Goldsmiths by an acute financial crisis, Goldsmiths promises that the upshot will be an enhanced student experience. Personal tutoring will now provide a wrap-around approach with staff teams working together to deliver high quality academic and wellbeing support to students throughout their studies. An upgraded virtual learning environment is being rolled out over summer 2025 and the university is creating a single student digital access point to answer student enquiries. A full academic review is being undertaken to ensure Goldsmiths courses reflect key national and global challenges where they intersect with the university's sphere of influence and expertise - encompassing climate justice, mental health, social inequality and the impact of artificial intelligence on the creative and cultural industries. To broaden the university's ability to attract students who might lack the level of qualifications to move straight on to a three-year honours degree programme, it is adding seven integrated degrees to its course portfolio this year - those that include a foundation year and require lower grades for entry - in English, history, journalism, sociology, social work, promotional media, and politics and international relations.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The university is aiming to improve long-standing poor scores in the annual National Student Survey with a revamped student support structure that brings academic and wellbeing support closer together through dedicated personal tutors who both monitor academic progress and provide the first point of contact if a student needs welfare support. Senior tutors in each academic department support personal tutors with more complex situations. Some departments, such as art and visual cultures, run their own neurodiversity and mental health support groups that students in any subject can access. A wellbeing team, mental health advisers and counsellors are available, with students able to access up to six sessions of various therapies, including art therapy. Goldsmiths also offer one-to-one wellbeing mentoring and study skills sessions covering time management, essay planning and writing, and motivation strategies. For the first time this year, Goldsmiths has introduced a contextual offer scheme to help maintain the student diversity for which it is known. Open only to care leavers and students estranged from their parents, offers are lowered by two grades (equivalent to 16 Ucas tariff points) compared to standard entry requirements. However, Goldsmiths stresses that it takes a holistic approach to all admissions decisions looking not just at predicted or attained grades, but also portfolios where relevant; personal statements; and other educational or personal information disclosed on Ucas forms.
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Overview

The University of the Arts London (UAL), our Arts University of the Year, is made up of six world-class colleges scattered across the capital: Central Saint Martins, London College of Fashion, London College of Communication and the Colleges of Arts in Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon. It is one of the few British universities not facing a cash crisis, thanks to its reputation. Tuition fees from international students made up 55% of UAL's total income last year and overseas students account for around 40% of its undergraduates. Its graduates are hugely in demand, with end-of-year shows a magnet for the creative industries looking for the 'next big thing'. The six colleges span all of those industries - from fashion to media, from acting to sculpting, from fine art to jewellery design and from games art to prosthetics. They came together to form UAL in 2004. Recent investment has transformed the university's estate with the introduction of new premises for the London College of Fashion in Stratford's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Applications are, unsurprisingly, running at record levels. Only the best get a place, but the list of famous alumni - who make up more than half of the Turner Prize winners - suggests that talent will out. UAL had the most student-run start-ups of any university last year, showing students here have the business brains to go with the creativity.

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Paying the bills

Some of the biggest names in fashion ensure that students at UAL are generously supported. There are numerous scholarship schemes; some are targeted at specific courses while others are designed to meet particular needs and encourage diversity. UAL itself offers 1,400 annual bursaries to all students on maximum maintenance loans, which effectively benefits all students coming from homes with an annual income of less than 25,000. But it is the scholarships for the lucky few that catch the eye. These include the Gucci Changemakers scholarship worth 25,250 a year (75,750 in total) for three students at the London College of Fashion who have been involved with the UAL Insights outreach programme. The Capri Holdings [owners of the Versace, Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors brands] Foundation scholarship is worth 43,100, paid over two years to three UK students taking the diploma in professional studies placement year on a BA fashion design or BA fashion communication degree at Central Saint Martins. Students in extreme financial difficulties can turn to UAL's hardship fund, which paid out 2.4m in 2023-24, with awards ranging from 500 to more than 5,000. Overall, 28% of undergraduates across all years received some form of financial assistance. UAL's 3,643 places in student accommodation are split among 12 halls. Prices range from 8,375 for a standard twin room in Portland House to 19,650 for a large premium studio in the same development, both for 50-week tenancies.

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What's new?

Two initiatives will expand the university's reach considerably. UAL has launched its first fully online degrees this year: three MAs in graphic design, fashion marketing and fashion business. The two-year programmes can be started in January, May or September, with no requirement to attend campus. The development should further broaden UAL's ability to reach groups often under-represented in higher education and is expected to appeal to older students in particular. Courses will be delivered through a mobile-first virtual learning environment, which will offer alternative formats to support low-bandwidth access. The new UAL School of Pre-Degree Studies brings together all of UAL's pre-degree and further education courses in art, media, design and fashion. Based at the university's Lime Grove site in Shepherd's Bush, West London, the new site includes facilities for 3D printing, casting and ceramics, printmaking and performance arts. UAL has also made a determined effort to tackle some persistently low scores in the annual National Student Survey (NSS). Poor student experience was identified as one of the five key risks facing the university in its latest annual report. UAL is coming to the end of a three-year programme of implementing a new student experience framework with significant revisions to course delivery. While some of these changes are still to be reflected across all of the NSS, UAL's scores for student support now run well above its levels elsewhere in the survey, with the institution ranking 36th for student support in our analysis of this year's NSS outcomes.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

UAL Insights is the university's main outreach vehicle for prospective students who are economically disadvantaged or under-represented in higher education. London students, aged 16 or over, are eligible for this programme if they live in a priority postcode area, have been in care, come from a family which receives benefits for living costs, or if they would be the first in their family to attend university. To help open up the idea of higher education to under-16s, UAL runs four national Saturday Club schemes in the capital for students in the first year of GCSEs. Contextual offers are made in all subjects but there is not a set formula of grade reductions. 'Our contextual admissions process helps us to identify students with the most creative potential, regardless of their personal background or education experiences,' the university told us. The system clearly works, with just under half of all UK admissions in September 2024 having a contextual admissions flag. Once at university, all students benefit from comprehensive mental health and wellbeing support. UAL offers in-person and online counselling, health advice and a chaplaincy service, and all staff are provided with information about what to do if they have concerns about the health and wellbeing of a student.
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Overview

Heriot-Watt University (HWU) specialises in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects for which there remains a national demand for graduates. This partly explains the university's great success in the graduate jobs market, with HWU students commanding some of the highest graduate starting salaries of any British university. A 2023 survey conducted by Novuna showed HWU was the top university in the UK for the number of graduates in chief executive or managing director roles. The university runs seven graduate apprenticeship programmes and has more than 400 students enrolled on them. HWU also helps prepare all students for work and post-graduation through both industrial and overseas placements, including years or semesters abroad at its Dubai or Malaysia campuses. The Riccarton campus on the western edge of Edinburgh is home to the bulk of the university's students, who have the cultural and social playground of the Scottish capital on their doorstep. There are two smaller campuses in Galashiels (the base for fashion, textile and design courses) and Stromness on Orkney, which is home to three postgraduate MScs in marine science and renewable energy, as well as the International Centre for Island Technology.

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Paying the bills

The HWU Access bursary, worth 1,000 per academic year, is awarded to about 50 students from Scotland each year. Eligible students include those from homes in the 40% of postcodes considered to be the most deprived; those from schools with a low rate of progression to higher education; mature applicants; those who are involved in widening-access initiatives such as the Schools for Higher Education Programme; and those who have been in care, are young carers or are estranged from their parents. A 525 HWU Expenses bursary is paid to eligible students to help with the cost of items such as laptops, books and other course materials. There are around a dozen further scholarships for Scottish students worth between 1,000 to 5,000 per year. For the 10% of the UK intake who do not come from Scotland, there is generous support over four years that, for some, more than offsets the extra 9,535 of tuition fees incurred by studying for an extra year in Scotland, where four-year courses are the norm. The maximum HWU bursary, worth 3,100 per year and a maximum of 12,400 over four years, is paid to students from the rest of the UK (RUK) who come from homes with an income of 25,000 or less. The payment drops to 2,100 per year where income is between 25,001 and 35,000, and to 1,100 where income is between 35,001 and 42,600. HWU also pays RUK students a 1,500 Travel Home bursary in their first year to help with travel expenses. Self-catered residential accommodation on the Riccarton campus is priced between 7,280 for a 40-week tenancy in a standard ensuite room and 8,680 for 40 weeks in a contemporary ensuite room within a shared flat for five. In Galashiels, prices for a 40-week let range from 6,080 to 9,250 in 2025-26.

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What's new?

The university's Global Research Institute in Health and Care Technologies has a new collaborative suite, which can simulate hospital and care settings from around the world using immersive projections. The suite is furnished with real hospital equipment and Alex, a medical simulation robot which can be programmed to exhibit various medical symptoms and responses. Keeping the global theme going, HWU's Global College widens access to its courses for students around the world through a variety of pathway programmes at foundation and pre-master's levels. These include modules in writing in academic English and discipline-specific learning to ease progression on to mainstream degrees. Travelling in the opposite direction, HWU's Go Global scheme offers a 'no fuss' chance for domestic students to study at HWU campuses in Dubai and Malaysia. Courses are common and taught in English, helping to reduce the academic and practical obstacles that can derail plans for studying abroad. A new BSc degree in data sciences recruits its first students this September, alongside a BA in interior architecture and design which replaces HWU's former interior design degree.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

A minimum entry requirement offer of BBBC at Scottish Highers or BCC at A-level is made to all care leavers and applicants from postcodes among the 20% most deprived in Scotland or the 20% most deprived in the rest of the UK. Reduced offers of one or two grades below the standard ask for a given course are made to students who qualify for a reduced offer by other means (see Access bursary eligibility in Paying the bills above). For these students, the university also exercises greater flexibility if admissions conditions are not met. The university supports all of its students via the careers and graduate futures team, which has created a dedicated Aspiring Futures programme specifically for widening-participation students. This includes an online careers platform; a job vacancy database for graduate, summer and part-time jobs; and bespoke workshops on career planning, building professional networks and social capital, and identifying and promoting skills and experience. All students benefit from HWU mental health and wellbeing support. Daily drop-in sessions with counsellors are available on campus as a first point of contact for students experiencing difficulties. Services are not time-limited, and the number of counselling or support sessions offered to students is governed by need. Personal tutors receive mandatory training in student support as part of HWU's mental health strategy.
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Overview

A sharp expansion in student numbers should make Durham a more attainable prospect for a wider cross-section of students. The number of undergraduates recruited in September 2024 leapt by 20% and further expansion is planned for September 2025. The university's new access and participation plan commits the university to diversifying its intake, too. Some of the traditional perceptions of the university remain true, however. Since Oxford and Cambridge moved to recruit more students from state schools, Durham has been the most popular destination for private-school pupils, who now account for 37% of the intake. More than a third of undergraduates come from London and the South East. They travel for a distinctive university experience, centred on the 16 undergraduate colleges, which are social rather than academic groupings (unlike Oxbridge). The so-called Hill colleges are spread out to the south of the city centre, while the Bailey colleges are located in largely historic premises in the centre, with Durham Castle (home to University College) the jewel in the crown. There is all-round academic strength spanning the arts, sciences and social sciences. The university prides itself on its wider student experience in which 85% of students participate, be that in university and college sport, volunteering, theatre, music or student media.

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Paying the bills

Durham is one of a small minority of universities to spend more on student financial support this year than last. The Durham Grant Scheme is one of the most generous student support mechanisms. This is chiefly down to its high income eligibility threshold that sees all students supported from homes with an annual income of up to 62,377. At this level and down to a household income of 47,201, an annual bursary of 714 is paid. From 47,200 down to 30,000, payments rise on a sliding scale from 851 up to 2,720. The top-rate bursary of 2,721 is paid to all students from homes with less than 30,000 annual income. Even with Durham's above-averagely wealthy student population, this scheme is expected to see almost 4,000 students supported in 2025-26. Several scholarships are open to students from homes with an annual income of less than 42,875. These include the Durham Inspired North East scholarships, Fiona Hill scholarships and Glaister Northern scholarships, which are all designed to boost the number of students recruited from the university's home region, who made up just 9% of the past year's undergraduate intake via Ucas. About one in five home and international undergraduates are expected to receive some form of financial support in 2026-27. The university has 7,760 student rooms in its colleges to meet the needs of a growing student population. The majority of self-catered rooms will cost between 7,146 and 7,801 for a 39-week contract, although University College has some ritzier studios priced at up to 10,708. Many colleges offer term-time catered accommodation, too, which is priced between 10,233 and 10,888.

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What's new?

Durham's new access and participation plan, which kicks in on September 1, sees the university promise to recruit more students from low-income families, postcodes which send the fewest into higher education, and underrepresented groups. It will also offer more support for students who have been in care and aim to close the attainment gap for mature students and disabled learners, with the latter accounting for 23% of Durham's intake in September 2024. The number of ethnic minority students is rising - up by one third in the past three years - but it is from a low base, with just 2.3% of the intake last year being of black heritage and 6.3% of Asian descent. A new EDI [Equality, Diversity and Inclusion] and Your Career hub has been launched to provide students and graduates from diverse backgrounds with bespoke help when it comes to career planning, navigating recruitment processes and preparing for the workplace. Recently completed major capital projects have delivered a new home for the well-regarded Durham Business School, in a riverside building that was initially built as a new headquarters for Durham County Council, and temporary new-build premises for the College of St Hild and St Bede (Hild Bede) while its historic home is refurbished and redeveloped.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Durham submitted more detail on its student mental health and wellbeing support than any other university in this guide. It is fair to say that what is on offer is extensive and well-targeted, combining the resources of a professional support services department with those in colleges and academic schools. Dedicated student support roles were established in every academic department in 2023-24, and a new case-management system has been set up so that students don't have to tell their story twice. Time-limited counselling is available and psychological wellbeing advisers offer brief interventions, advice and referrals on to other services. Mental health advisers deal with more complex or chronic conditions. Colleges break down the large student community in Durham into bite-sized chunks and are often the first point of contact for a student in distress. The colleges employ teams of pastoral tutors - volunteers from both within the university and without. All permanent student-facing staff are required to undertake training on student support and suicide awareness in a university context. To assist Durham in its mission to diversify the student intake (see What's new above) it operates a contextual offers scheme across all undergraduate courses, which cuts the standard entry requirement by two grades. More than one in four of the university's unconditional firm offer acceptances in the 2024 admissions cycle held contextual offers.
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Overview

Leicester-based De Montfort University (DMU) is pushing its global credentials. DMU Global allows students to live, study and volunteer abroad, often at partner institutions but also at its own outposts in Dubai, Kazakhstan and Cambodia. More than 1,250 students took part in DMU Global opportunities in 2023-24, and the university offers bursaries of 200 or 400 (depending on the destination) to help fund these experiences. As well as broadening the minds of its students through travel, DMU prepares them for the world of work. For two years running, students have voted their work placements as the best in the UK in the Rate My Placement awards. DMU was one of the first universities to move over to block teaching, where students are taught one module at a time to improve their work-life balance. They are examined at the end of each seven-week block of teaching - so there is no end-of-year exam panic - and study two modules consecutively per term. A new digital technology learning hub has added virtual production, audio, TV and broadcast facilities equipped with the latest technology and a Cyber Defence Training Network to help develop student expertise in cyber defence and resilience using a custom version of an industrial network. However, applications and admissions for courses through Ucas beginning in September 2024 stood at the second-lowest and lowest levels in a decade respectively. In May it emerged 94 jobs were at risk, and the university is seeking to make savings of 22m.

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Paying the bills

The university spends more than 1m on hardship support for students in extreme need each year, but it has one of the more limited bursary and scholarship programmes. There are awards of 1,000 per academic year for care leavers and estranged students, with further scholarships limited to the eye-catching few. One female student studying computer science or one of a variety of engineering degrees benefits each year from the David Tupman scholarship worth 3,000 annually. The three Stephen Lawrence Professional scholarships offer half-price tuition fees and a 3,500 cash bursary for each year of study. Named in honour of the black teenager murdered in South-East London in 1993, it is open to talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds studying architecture, architectural technology, criminology, health and wellbeing in society, journalism or law. The Stoneygate Trust scholarship, also given to three students, is worth 4,000 per year and is open to those from a disadvantaged or low-income background who have overcome adversity while pursuing their goals. Prices for the cheapest 227 rooms in student residences have been held at 3,909 for a 41-week contract in the upcoming academic year. A small price increase for the top-priced rooms sees students charged 6,923 for a 43-week tenancy.

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What's new?

Global recognition for DMU's expertise on sustainability has come in the form of its appointment as chair of a United Nations academic impact hub for Sustainable Development Goal 11 (sustainable cities and communities). It is the only UK university to be asked to chair a hub. It will lead a team of other universities across the globe in helping to address issues such as affordable housing; air pollution; clean water and sanitation; and renewable energy in cities. The prestigious role acknowledges the university's own commitment to sustainability, evidenced by it placing second in the latest People & Planet ranking of university environmental and ethical performance. DMU is also becoming a key centre for those wanting to work in cyber security and computing. New facilities include computing laboratories that reflect current working practices in tech businesses, a cutting-edge private cloud network to facilitate secure data analytics and modelling techniques, and state-of-the-art cyber-security labs. These all boost DMU's status as a gold-standard provider of cyber-security education, as accredited by the UK's National Cyber Security Centre. A new digital tech learning hub gives students access to the latest industry-standard hardware and software used in a range of disciplines, too. The development includes television production studios, a content studio with lighting rigs and backdrops, a VFX post-production studio, a production lab, a virtual production studio, an image capture studio and audio studios.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

A generous contextual offer scheme contributes to considerable social diversity on campus, with half of students drawn from homes where parents did not go to university. Contextual offers are pitched at two levels, requiring applicants to achieve either 48 or 64 Ucas tariff points (DD/EEE or CC/DDE at A-level) according to their predicted or actual grades. These offers are made to first-generation students, care leavers, those who come from homes in the 40% of postcodes with the lowest rates of participation in higher education and those who have received free school meals. Applicants who have completed the DMU Aspire four-day on-campus outreach programme also qualify. The university's block teaching model (see Overview above) is part of its mental health and student wellbeing strategy, with 92% of students reporting that the new-style degree programmes focusing on one module at a time helped their work-life balance. Students in need of support can access it through the Healthy DMU Hub, while the university's wellbeing team offers practical advice and assistance in managing mental health problems, including organising assessments for teaching adjustments. There is an extensive programme of help available for autistic students, which includes a two-day residential event to give autistic freshers a taste of university life prior to term starting. All staff undertake mandatory training on student wellbeing and safeguarding, too.
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Overview

This small university of around 10,000 students has a true regional footprint in a sprawling county otherwise short of higher-education options, and is playing a key role in the regeneration of both Carlisle and Barrow-in-Furness. Both will benefit from the opening of new campuses in the coming weeks and months, which should help turn around application and acceptance figures - both at their lowest in the past decade in the admissions cycle for September 2024. A graduate-entry medical school - The Pears Cumbria School of Medicine - admits its first students in September 2025. Developed in partnership with the world-class medical school of Imperial College London, and with substantial financial backing from the Pears Foundation, it is based in Carlisle. There are two existing sites in Carlisle (with the Citadels campus under development) and a new campus in Barrow is due to open in September 2025. Further outposts are sited in Lancaster and Ambleside at the heart of the Lake District. The latter offers several courses that reflect its location, including new degrees about to admit their first intake in ecology and wildlife conservation, and tourism and visitor economy management. There is even a campus in London which runs business, education and health programmes.

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Paying the bills

A points-based system is used to allocate the fixed number of Cumbria bursaries each year. The basic qualifying criteria for the bursary - worth 1,000 per year to full-time students and 500 annually to part-time students - is to come from a home with an annual income of less than 25,000. Points are earned for the level of household income, being a care leaver, having a disability, and living in an area with a low rate of progression to higher education. Bursaries go to those with the highest number of points; a proportion of awards are reserved for students aged over 21 on entry. Postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) students in Lancaster or Carlisle who are alumni are also eligible for 1,000 scholarships and up to 1,000 accommodation discounts. Support is also given to those experiencing severe financial hardship with 145,000 paid out in 2023/24, while costs have been reduced for all students by cutting the price for access to on-campus fitness suites to 25 per academic year, providing free weekday breakfasts and a complimentary IT bundle. The 600+ places in self-catered university accommodation are priced from 3,640 for a 40-week contract to 6,132 for a 42-week deal in the best rooms.

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These are exciting times with several key developments about to come to fruition. Cumbria's new Barrow campus fronting onto Buccleugh Dock is due to open in September 2025. The campus at the heart of the Barrow Learning Quarter is a stone's throw from BAE Systems, the town's major employer, which has been a key partner in developing the site. One of the degrees to be offered here initially is a five-year mechanical engineering programme with an integrated foundation year and an industry placement year. BAE is offering scholarships worth 8,000 over the course of the degree, plus a 12-week work placement and a guaranteed interview on completion of the course. The company is offering something similar, but with 5,000 of bursary payments, for the three-year computer science degree. Also coming on stream next month is the Pears Cumbria School of Medicine in Carlisle, which will run a four-year graduate medical degree co-created with regional NHS partners. The opening of the Citadels campus in Carlisle has been put back a year to 2027. The bulk of the 78.7m cost is being met by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Cumbria is adding an enhanced clinical practitioner option to its already substantial roster of degree apprenticeships. It expects to have more than 2,500 apprentice learners enrolled by September 2026, making the university one of the UK's biggest providers in this growing area of provision.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Climbing for Wellbeing takes a local pastime and turns it into a therapeutic aid for students suffering from mental health issues. Rather than using the natural resource of the Lake Districts mountains, five-week courses are held at the Eden Rock climbing centre, in Carlisle, one of the largest indoor bouldering walls in England. Catering for climbers of all abilities, the sessions explore fear and trust issues, anxiety, problem solving, making changes, and managing failure and high expectations. This is typical of the holistic approach taken by Cumbria's student support service, underpinned by a Live Well, Learn Well ethos. More common talking therapies, therapeutic groups and courses, self-help guidance and workshops are also offered. Head Start academic skills courses, covering academic writing, referencing and research skills, help students with the transition to higher education in the days before enrolment. All staff must complete compulsory safeguarding training as part of their induction. About one quarter of students qualify for a contextual offer each year. These are mostly made at the bottom end of the standard Ucas tariff point range for a given course to applicants from homes in areas with the lowest higher education participation rates, care leavers or young carers, those estranged from their parents and those who have been eligible for free schools meals during their secondary schooling. Participation in university-run summer schools, masterclasses or the university's Future Teachers scheme also qualifies applicants for a contextual offer.
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Overview

Our University of the Year for Teaching Excellence, Chichester offers its 5,000 undergraduates a more personal university experience. Students consistently rank the university highly in the annual National Student Survey (NSS). Chichester earned a string of exceptional scores in excess of 90% for the quality of teaching in this year's NSS, while also making the UK top 20 for student support in our analysis of the outcomes. Founded as a teacher training college in 1839, nowadays design, creative and performing arts students make up the biggest study area, although primary and secondary school teacher training - notably for PE teachers - is still key. It is not just students who rate the teaching highly. Ofsted inspectors recently gave outstanding ratings in all areas for primary and secondary teacher training. And the university earned an overall gold rating in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework outcomes. Chichester has a strong portfolio of arts, performing arts, healthcare and sport-related degrees, ranking particularly high for psychology and sport science in our subject tables. The university is based on two campuses - Bishop Otter in Chichester and nearby Bognor Regis - where admissions fell by nearly 20% in September 2024. About 70% of the UK intake comes from the South East and the university achieves good social diversity on campus, with just under half the students being the first in their immediate family to attend university.

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Paying the bills

Chichester paid out about 500,000 in bursaries, scholarships and hardship support in 2023-24. Students from households with less than 25,000 of annual income qualify for a bursary of 300 per academic year. The same sum is available to undergraduate care leavers without the means testing. More than 300 students benefited from 165,113 of payments from the university's hardship fund. Chichester has 1,300 places in university-owned halls, not all of which (unusually) were filled in 2024-25. All first years are guaranteed a place in halls, with self-catered prices ranging from 5,785 for a 39-week let on the Bishop Otter campus to 10,630 for a 50-week contract in an off-campus studio in Bognor Regis. There are also catered rooms available at Bishop Otter, priced between 7,557 and 8,559 for 39 weeks.

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What's new?

Chichester expects to have 500 degree apprentices on campus by September. A new data scientist degree apprenticeship brings the total number of options to 12 with three further programmes - biomedical scientist, speech and language therapist and registered nurse - slated for September 2026, subject to approval. Four new degrees are also planned for the coming academic year. The most niche of these is a BSc in the psychology of esports, with more mainstream offerings in law with business, children's health and wellbeing, and a new BSc in biomedical science, with students largely based in Chichester's new biomedical science laboratories. The new labs are within the university's Tech Park on the Bognor Regis campus and will provide research capabilities as well as teaching facilities. Virtual-reality teaching is being developed with computer science specialists, and the teaching of bioinformatics with the use of AI in diagnostics and drug discovery has been built into the course.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

The university introduced a contextual admissions policy for September this year. This covers all undergraduate programmes and reduces the standard offer by 16 Ucas tariff points, equivalent to two A-level grades. Eligibility criteria include living in a postcode among the 20% with the lowest rates of progression to higher education, receiving free school meals, having a disability, and having been in care or being a young carer. The new policy should diversify the student intake. As part of its latest access and participation plan, Chichester has introduced initiatives aimed at enrolling more students from lower socio-economic backgrounds with a goal to increase the number of ethnic minority students on campus, who currently make up just one in nine of the intake. Students from under-represented backgrounds get a dedicated careers consultant to help them follow up the success of getting a place at university, and the university is embedding one-year industry placements across all departments to give students work experience before graduating. Academic advisers and pastoral tutors are available to all as part of the support package that is scored consistently highly by students in the NSS. The wellbeing service triages and assists students with mental health problems, offering mentoring for transient issues and counselling where suitable, as well as signposting to a peer support programme or weekly support groups. The university runs a sexual health and guidance campaign soon after freshers' week. Topics such as consent, drugs and alcohol are also covered during induction talks.
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Overview

Buckingham registered two top-ten performances in the 2025 Whatuni Student Choice awards - ranking fourth for teaching quality and seventh for student support - in contrast to another disappointing set of results in the 2025 National Student Survey, where the university came bottom for student experience under our analysis. These outcomes were both voted for by the university's students, who are based on an attractive riverside campus in the pretty country town of Buckingham. Teaching is modelled on that found in nearby Oxford, with small classes and an intensity of work generated by Buckingham's compression of most degrees into two-year programmes. Copied now by some in the state sector, two-year degrees were pioneered here. The price of tuition is essentially the same as in the state sector, but students' bank balances benefit from the one-year reduction in living costs. A small university of about 3,000 students, Buckingham offers a compact portfolio of undergraduate courses with a strong presence in business, computing, law and teacher training. The university spent too long in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the past year with its vice-chancellor, Professor James Tooley, suspended and then ultimately reinstated in a saga that played out over several months.

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Paying the bills

Buckingham's two-year degrees mean its students graduate with significantly less debt than their counterparts in the state sector. Although tuition fees are only marginally less - 27,750 paid over two years (13,875 per annum) compared to 28,605 paid over three years (9,535 per annum) in the state sector - students save by not having to pay an extra year of living costs. This means a Buckingham two-year degree costs on average 13,000 less than a three-year degree elsewhere. A limited amount of financial support is available. High Achiever scholarships worth 2,000 in the first year are paid to students from the UK and Ireland who make Buckingham their firm choice and go on to achieve AAB or better in their A-levels. A small number of University of Buckingham bursaries worth up to 9,500 in tuition-fee reductions over two years are available to the most deserving students demonstrating financial need. They are open to students who apply at least two months before enrolment and are in receipt of a maintenance loan of at least 7,500 (paid to students from homes with an annual income of approximately 42,500). A hardship fund is also available to students experiencing financial difficulties, offering a maximum payment of 500. The university issues e-food vouchers in extreme cases, and its laptop scheme provides short-term equipment loans to help students with coursework and assignments. Accommodation prices for 2026 have been reduced for some of the cheapest rooms, which come down to 130 and 145 per week (6,370 and 7,105 for a 49-week let). The most expensive rooms on the Hunter Street and Verney Park campus top out at 235 a week (11,515 for 49 weeks), with double rooms and accommodation for couples also available at an extra cost.

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What's new?

New residential accommodation at Mount Pleasant has come on stream, giving students a fourth option in Buckingham if they want to live in university-owned rooms. Offering more than 50 twin ensuite rooms, the campus also has a gym, pool, bar and free laundry facilities. Last November, the first mock trial was staged in the university's Moot Room - part of the newly renovated Franciscan Building which also includes a renovated library, collaborative study facilities and a start-up space. Medical school facilities have been beefed up ahead of the closure of the satellite health and medical campus in Crewe in 2026, too. New developments include several simulation rooms in the style of GP surgeries and home visit spaces, equipped with virtual-reality headsets to provide a diverse range of medical experiences for students. Buckingham has also trialled the Being, Belonging, Becoming survey to gather student views on their university experience. The hope is that this will inform future campus enhancements and address recent poor scores in the annual National Student Survey (NSS). While it regularly finished top or close to the top of the NSS rankings a decade ago, the university's performance has slumped in more recent times.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Contextual offers are made to students only after interviews. Mature students - who make up around half of the intake each year - often benefit from this flexibility once relevant work and life experience is considered, although the university does not reduce offers by a set number of grades or Ucas tariff points, preferring to judge each candidate individually. Buckingham's headline tariff range is ABB to BBB at A-level. It achieves good levels of social inclusion, with roughly one-third of students being the first in their immediate family to go to university. Targeted financial support available for those in need includes the University of Buckingham bursary (see Paying the bills above) worth up to 9,500 over the course of a degree. Students on a foundation year can qualify for 1,500 in that year and 2,000 for each subsequent year of their degree, subject to satisfactory progression. A range of other scholarships target specific subjects, local students and disadvantage. Students have access to trained counsellors and wellbeing advisers with mental health training. Mentors are based in each faculty and there are more than 30 mental health first-aiders on campus. Induction week includes sessions on mental health, wellbeing, finances, drugs and alcohol. Student safety is addressed through a wellbeing, skills and diversity talk held for new students during Welcome Week, which covers consent and healthy relationships.
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Overview

Chester rolls out its Future Skills Curriculum in time for the new academic year, promising students that it will deliver a mix of 'experience, knowledge and confidence'. At its core will be skills that employers have told the university they need. No more than two modules will be taught simultaneously and traditional examinations are being replaced by 'authentic assessment' - continuous assessment integrated into courses, designed to replicate how students will be required to recall knowledge in a working environment. Chester is the latest institution to ditch the more traditional university experience as it fights to keep enrolments buoyant - both applications and admissions are down by about a third from the peak around ten years ago - and to make it a go-to destination for those seeking a graduate-level job. The university is based largely in the attractive city of Chester, with outposts in Birkenhead and Warrington and its land-based centre Reaseheath, near Nantwich. It admitted its first medical students in 2024 for a four-year graduate-entry degree, adding to its already significant presence in health-related courses. Teacher training is also big, reflecting Chester's origins as the UK's first teacher training college at its founding in 1839.

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Paying the bills

Chester targets its financial support as much on those considering coming here as on those who are already enrolled. Everyone attending an applicant day event is entitled to a one-off contribution of between 10 and 30 depending on the distance travelled. Travel bursaries of up to 100 are offered to those attending outreach events if they receive free school meals, pupil premium or benefits for low income or disability, or if they have been in care, are carers or are estranged. Bursaries are paid only to carers (1,500 a year for those with an income of 40,000 or less), those who have spent time in care (1,500 a year, plus a 1,000 fee waiver and a 50% discount on university-owned accommodation for those under the age of 25), estranged students (1,500 a year and a 50% discount on university-owned accommodation for those under 25), and members of the gypsy, Roma, traveller, showman and boater community (1,500 a year). A student support fund is available for those who get into financial difficulty while studying, while the Futures Employability Fund offers up to 500 a year to current students and graduates for up to two years after leaving. The money can be used to cover activities or items that improve employability and help students develop skills and experience, or for gaining access to opportunities - such as conferences - that a lack of cash might otherwise prevent them from attending. The cheapest university-owned, self-catered accommodation comes in at 4,520 for a 40-week contract, rising to a maximum of 7,160. Chester is one of a small number of universities to offer catered accommodation, which costs between 7,600 and 7,790 for 38 weeks full-board.

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What's new?

The launch of the Chester Future Skills Curriculum (see Overview above) will revolutionise course delivery to ensure that (in the words of the university promotional video) 'the skills that we teach in the classroom are the skills that employers need in the workplace'. Employers have been involved in the development of courses, and many will now step up to provide placements for Chester students. All undergraduate programmes will include a professional development module, which could involve learning a new language or working for a minimum of 150 hours with an external placement provider. The majority of second-year students will have the option to undertake a work placement. Considerable capital expenditure on campus has boosted facilities, too. Following last year's transfer of the school of education to the refurbished Malloy Hall, on the university's Exton Park site in Chester, this summer will see the completion of a Forest School in a ravine on the campus to create a practical forest school teaching area for students. The 61-bed John Milton Hall has been fully refurbished to provide improved common-room space and communal kitchens, while the students' union building has been remodelled to a design proposed by Chester Students' Union. Several new degrees admit their first students in September, including 24 which offer a foundation year to further boost Chester's already strong track record in opening up university education to a wide audience.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Chester achieves the unusual combination of great success in recruiting students whose parents have not gone to university and also a better than average first-year completion rate. Too often students who have no family members with a higher-education background are the most likely to drop out of their courses. This outcome is thanks to Chester's strong undergraduate support structures - something recognised last year when it won the Whatuni Student Choice Award for student support based on polling of its own students. Wellbeing and mental health support encompasses everything from same-day appointments for students in need of urgent help through to short-term therapy from the counselling service. Peer-support networks also provide a safe space for students with shared backgrounds, or who are going through similar experiences, to connect with one another. Chester's Student Assistance Programme provides year-round, 24-hour cover, and the university has a dedicated app that offers mood trackers, mini health-checks, guided mindfulness webinars and support videos. Chester's admissions policy plays its part in the university's success in attracting students who might miss out on higher education elsewhere. 'We consider a wide range of factors to identify merit, rather than academic attainment alone,' the university told us. Contextual offers, pitched at up to two A-level grades (16 Ucas tariff points) below the standard entry requirements, are made on all programmes with the exception of foundation-year courses and medicine. Students who have been in receipt of free school meals, those who live in postcodes among the 20% that send fewest into higher education, and those who have attended schools with below-average rates of progression to university are among those eligible.
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Overview

Cambridge remains one of the most-prized destinations in global higher education. It goes without saying that you need to be clever to get in - 57% of the intake in September 2024 gained A*A*A* at A-level. However, you need more than just good predicted grades to prove you will flourish here. A shake-up of admissions - achieved without any decline in academic standards - has made the whole business of getting a place fairer. The proportion of the intake who are privately educated has dropped sharply (now accounting for 29% of UK students), while one in seven come from the 40% of postcodes considered to be the most deprived. The university has set its sights on 'serving the UK as a whole', in the words of vice-chancellor Prof Deborah Prentice. Her comments allude to the fact that 50.7% of admissions come from London and the South East, while 2.4% are from the North East. The university's outreach work is trying to fix this by generating more applications from the regions. The 29 undergraduate colleges differ sharply, so do visit them before applying. Open days happen early, in the summer term of Year 12. The application deadline - October 15 - is also early.

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Paying the bills

As its intake diversifies, Cambridge's bursary and scholarship programme gains in importance. Just under 3,500 students benefit annually from the Cambridge Bursary Scheme. The maximum bursary of 3,500 a year is given to students from homes with an income of up to 25,000. This tapers, for example, to 2,130 when the income hits 40,000, and 1,210 at 50,000. The lowest payment of 100 is made at 62,215. However, further top-ups are available. Enhanced bursaries, which add up to an extra 2,100 per year for those with the lowest household incomes, are paid to estranged students, care leavers and medical and veterinary students in their clinical training years. An Education Premium of 1,000 is paid on top of the Cambridge bursary to any student who has received free school meals. Separate hardship funds, which can pay out as much as 3,650, assist students who experience financial difficulties. As well as the awards paid centrally, there are prizes paid for by donors (see the Stormzy scholarships in What's new below), colleges and departments. There is no set fee for student accommodation as all the colleges operate independently. This means prices vary significantly between colleges, so research is necessary. Students often live in college for the duration of their degree, and the university estimates that students should budget 11,160 for living costs for the upcoming academic year.

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What's new?

The awarding of an honorary degree wouldn't normally be news that featured in this section of our guide. But when the recipient is Stormzy, the black rap artist, we make an exception. This is because of what he represents to Cambridge. In 2018, he began bankrolling what became known as Stormzy scholarships at the university, initially awarded to two black British students each year. The scheme has expanded since and 55 students have been supported by Stormzy scholarships to date. The publicity around the scholarships has been single-handedly responsible for a sharp increase in the number of black applicants to Cambridge - the so-called 'Stormzy effect'. An honorary doctorate in law, awarded to Stormzy in June, acknowledges that impact. The ongoing roll-out of new facilities continues apace in a university where world-class facilities can be found at every turn. The latest addition is the Ray Dolby Centre, which will house the renowned Cavendish Laboratory and the physics department. The building is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025 and will be a science research centre for both Cambridge and the wider country. It will also feature seminar rooms and lecture theatres for teaching - one with capacity for 400 students.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

A place at Cambridge for BBB at A-level? Yes, it is possible under the university's novel foundation-year programme, first introduced in 2021. Up to 50 students get to study an art, humanities and social sciences course - with all tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses covered for the foundation year. Successful completion allows them to proceed to the first year of one of 18 degree courses. The scheme is open to students who have been in care or who meet two of an extensive range of criteria covering personal, educational and household characteristics. These include coming from a home with an annual income of up to 25,000, moving state schools two or more times during secondary education and attending a state school or college that has received few offers from Cambridge. Outreach events take place across the UK with a focus on regions from which fewest applicants are drawn. However, while candidates can be 'flagged' to admissions tutors based on contextual data covering the socio-economic characteristics of an applicant's postcode, their school's attainment record and their eligibility for free school meals, offers of places still involve one and often two A* grades at A-level. Students from under-represented backgrounds who gain a place are given advice before they arrive. They are also paired up with a college 'mother' and 'father' who have completed a year or more and who may come from a similar background or region. The university has ramped up student support, investing heavily in reducing waiting times for its counselling services. It still takes three working days on average to get an appointment, but there is additional support available via student nurses and wellbeing advisers in all colleges. All students are assigned a director of studies and a pastoral tutor. Students meet weekly with their tutors in small groups (called supervisions) to discuss set work, and this gives them an opportunity to talk about their progress or express concerns. All student-facing staff, including college porters, are given tailored mental health and wellbeing training appropriate to their role.
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Overview

Bradford is our University of the Year for Social Inclusion and makes our shortlist of five for the overall UK University of the Year title off the back of its strong performance across many of the ranking measures in our league table. The pursuit of social inclusion extends beyond admissions practices to permeate the curriculum and research focus of the institution. It's evident in initiatives such as the Digital Health Enterprise Zone, which seeks to develop digital health innovations to improve the lives of people living with long-term conditions. One of the most diverse student populations at any university is well-supported financially and academically, and Bradford serves its region well, from which it draws 85% of its recruits. More than 70% of last year's domestic intake were of Asian descent, with the university mirroring the ethnic diversity of the city it calls home. The university is helping the area to celebrate its status as the 2025 UK City of Culture, too. Bradford offers an extensive range of science, technology, engineering and health-related degrees, and a significant proportion of graduates go into the NHS, contributing to the university's excellent graduate employment outcomes.

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Paying the bills

More than 3,000 students get financial assistance under Bradford's undergraduate bursary scheme. A bursary of 500 is paid in the first year to students from homes with an annual income of less than 30,000 (a generous upper limit in a university with such high levels of social diversity), with the sum rising by a further 100 in both the second and third years of study, up to 600 and 700 respectively. Bradford also makes a serious play for the best-qualified students from diverse backgrounds with its 1,000 annual UK Academic Excellence scholarship, worth up to 3,000 over the duration of a degree. This is paid to students who achieve AAA at A-level (or equivalent) who come from homes in the 40% of postcodes with the lowest rates of progression to higher education. The Bradford Futures scholarships, meanwhile, are worth 1,500 per year and are paid to students who tick a widening-participation box, such as coming from a low-income household, being disabled, coming from an ethnic minority, being a care leaver or young carer, or being a mature student aged 25 or over when starting university. About 20 of these scholarships are awarded each year to deserving applicants. There is no university-owned accommodation, but Bradford endorses around 1,000 rooms with a private operator. Prices for 2025-26 begin at 3,526 for 43 weeks in a room in a classic 12-bed, six-bathroom townhouse and rise to 6,400 for 50 weeks in a deluxe ensuite room.

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What's new?

It has been a year of mixed fortunes for the university. Triumphs and recognition of its endeavours to create a socially inclusive campus have been offset by a 19.5m cut in tuition-fee income from international students in 2023-24. Courses in chemistry and film and television closed as Bradford faced 'significant financial challenges' not dissimilar to those that have hit many other institutions. As well as winning our University of the Year for Social Inclusion 2026 title, Bradford was also named University of the Year at last year's Social Mobility Awards in recognition of the support given to students who have been in foster care; the university's web of loans and scholarships; and the range of support available for students and graduates, which includes careers advice for up to five years after graduation. Bradford has been designated one of 19 Adobe Creative Campuses in the UK and Europe, giving students access to the latest professional-quality Adobe software during their studies. The university works with 3,000 local, national and international employers to offer career development and to support the institution's ethos of offering 'more than a degree'. Students benefit from curricular and extracurricular opportunities to engage in careers-focused learning that is subject-specific. Employers have had a say in the design of many courses, which often carry professional accreditation. Bradford's longstanding success in the graduate jobs market is the natural result of this focus. When it comes to the proportion of students who believe their careers to be on track 15 months after leaving, the university ranks in the UK top 40, with three-quarters of its graduates in high-skilled jobs.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Bradford's counselling and mental health service is accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. The service works closely with the students' union, personal academic tutors and the university's student experience and success team. When they enrol, students are invited to attend a Step Up to HE programme which offers sessions on mental health and wellbeing. A partnership with the Talking Therapies arm of the local NHS Trust gives students access to in-person and online courses on themes such as anxiety, depression and stress. More than one-third of students admitted in September 2024 received a contextual offer. These typically cut the standard offer by eight Ucas tariff points (equivalent to one A-level grade). Eligibility criteria include being a mature entrant aged 21 or over when courses begin, living in a postcode among the 40% with the lowest rates of progression to higher education, being a care leaver or a carer, being estranged and being from an Armed Forces family. These same groups are eligible to be part of the university's Progression Scheme, which is central to its championing of social diversity on campus. Attendance at an open day and a progression scheme workshop, and the completion of an associated task, can double the Ucas points discount offered.
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Overview

Birmingham recruited an additional 1,500 undergraduates in September 2024 compared to the previous year, expanding its intake across a variety of courses and accepting more students who had missed their offer grades than usual. Although there are some 37,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, size does not make things impersonal here - course leaders on some degree programmes telephoned those who had gained places on results day last summer to welcome them. Two-thirds of UK entrants to this research-intensive Russell Group university come from the West Midlands, London and the South East, and there is a large overseas contingent, too. Many students are drawn to Birmingham's excellent academic reputation across a swathe of subject areas, coupled with its stellar graduate outcomes. It is one of the original redbrick universities, so called because of the materials used in the principal buildings which date from the early 20th century. The university is located in the affluent suburb of Edgbaston, which is a seven-minute train ride from the city centre, but most students live out in the neighbouring (and less salubrious) Selly Oak district. Birmingham is socially inclusive, providing financial support for one in five students each year through a 14m bursary and scholarship programme.

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Paying the bills

The Chamberlain Award is paid automatically to undergraduates who come from homes with an annual income of up to 35,000. A 2,000 award is paid to those from homes with an annual income of up to 25,000, dropping to 1,000 where income is between 25,001 and 35,000. Payment criteria are currently under review, so these rates may change for 2026 admission. For care leavers, an Enhanced Chamberlain Award provides a 9,610 accommodation fee waiver, or a cash bursary of 3,000 for those living out. There are also sport and music scholarships available, the latter of which offers 17 hours of musical tuition each year, worth 3,000 over three years. Students who complete a Pathways to Birmingham outreach programme qualify for enhanced financial support, too. The Vale Village, with its lakeside location, is the pick of Birmingham's three student villages - and easily accessible from campus. Some accommodation offered by private providers is a substantial walk away. Prices range from 4,326 for a 42-week self-catered contract in Maple Bank to 11,256 for the best ensuite rooms in Chamberlain with an annual campus food and drink credit.

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Birmingham is the university targeted most by leading graduate employers, according to the latest Graduate Market in 2024 report conducted by High Fliers. High starting salaries coupled with graduates feeling as though their careers are almost immediately on track contribute to the university's strong showing in our ranking, too. Further success came earlier this year with its dentistry, English, theology, anatomy and physiology, and linguistics courses placing in the top 50 globally in the latest QS World University Rankings, and sport ranking in the top ten. The Birmingham Centre for Anatomy, Surgical and Clinical Skills is due to open in 2026 on the Birmingham Health Innovation Campus, close to the medical school and the Edgbaston mothership. The centre will offer students an immersive learning experience in simulated environments, which will include mock hospital wards, consulting rooms and an operating theatre. The university team won the University Halls of Residence of the Year award for its low-carbon townhouses in the redeveloped Pritchatts Park student village at the annual national Property Week Student Accommodation Awards in December 2024. The university's Student Living team were also praised for the diverse calendar of events that help create a sense of community. New degrees planned for 2026 include artificial intelligence and public policy; film and television; philosophy, politics and economics; and mathematics, statistics and data science.

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Admissions, teaching and student support

Birmingham is one of the most socially inclusive Russell Group universities, using its fair-access scheme, Pathways to Birmingham, to encourage sixth-formers from backgrounds under-represented in higher education to attend university. It includes programmes for Year 12 pupils (Routes to the Professions and the National Access Summer School) and the flagship Year 13 Access to Birmingham (A2B) scheme. Completion of these triggers an alternative offer of a place at least two grades below the standard one and helps to maintain a steady supply of students from the local area, who made up 36% of last year's enrolments. A contextual offer scheme open to care leavers and those who have received free school meals in the past six years cuts one grade from a standard offer. Roughly one in five students are admitted with a reduced offer via one of these routes. A safety-net approach means students can access mental health and wellbeing support through a variety of routes, including academic departments, online platforms and core student services. Pause@UoB offers a no-wait mental health and wellbeing drop-in service, run in partnership with the NHS and The Children's Society. This is supplemented by UBHeard, the university's year-round 24/7 online and telephone listening service that can refer students on to counsellors worldwide. All academics receive 'recognise and refer' training, as well as an annual update that outlines where to direct students for support and helps staff spot signs of mental distress. This training is also offered to those whom students are likely to present in distress, including security, library and accommodation staff. An online portal for personal academic tutors ensures support information can be easily found in one place, too.
The Daily Mail University Guide's institutional ranking measures UK universities on their performance across 12 indicators, making it the broadest ranking of its kind.

Our subject rankings use five measures  covering student satisfaction with teaching quality, the support they receive and their university experience, and two elements focused on graduate job outcomes  to rank universities across 78 subject areas.

The rankings analyse material gathered from key higher-education datasets relevant to student experience, including the National Student Survey, the Research Excellence Framework and the Graduate Outcomes Survey. Further material is sourced from the Higher Education Statistics Agency, compiled to bespoke specifications for the Daily Mail.

The data sources and analysis conducted for each of the measures are detailed below, together with their weightings and contributions to the overall rankings.

Institutional Ranking

Teaching Excellence

Derived from the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS) published in July, this measure focuses on final-year student responses to the nine individual questions in the first two sections of the survey: teaching on my course and learning opportunities. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all nine questions is averaged to produce the overall score for teaching excellence. This year's survey was completed by more than 357,000 final-year students  a response rate of 71.5%, making the survey the largest of its kind.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

Student support

This is another indicator based on the responses of more than 357,000 final-year students to this years NSS. This analyses positive responses to the seven individual questions in the sections of the survey covering assessment and feedback and academic support, together with an eighth question on how well information was communicated about support services for mental wellbeing. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all eight questions is averaged to produce the overall score for student support.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

Student experience

This is the third indicator in the ranking drawn from the annual NSS. This measure is based on student responses to nine individual questions in three sections of the survey: organisation and management, learning resources, and student voice. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all nine questions is averaged to produce the overall score for student experience.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 50pts, 5%

First-generation students

The proportion of UK-domiciled undergraduate students whose parents did not attend university.

Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency (Hesa), Student Record, undergraduate UK students, 2023-24. University of Buckingham data, Hesa, Student Record, undergraduate UK students, 2021-22

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

High-skilled jobs

The proportion of first-degree, UK-domiciled graduates in highly skilled employment as defined by the Standard Occupational Classification, SOC2020, 15 months after leaving university. Highly skilled roles are defined as: managers, directors and senior officials; professional occupations; and associate professional occupations. Almost 382,000 graduates took part in the survey  a response rate of 44.5%.

Source: Hesa, Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021-22, published in June 2024. Roehampton, institution-provided data, supplied in August 2024. City St Georges data based on merged data from predecessor institutions City, University of London and St Georges, University of London.

Contribution to ranking: 150pts, 15%

Graduate salaries

The median salary of first-degree, UK-domiciled graduates in full-time paid UK employment, 15 months after leaving university. Points awarded are based on the proportion of the largest salary (37,000 at Imperial College London) represented by an institutions own median salary. Imperial earned a maximum 50pts, so a median salary of 28,000 would earn 37.8pts (75.7% of the total points available) in line with 28,000 being 75.7% of the largest salary of 37,000.

Source: Hesa, Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021-22, published in June 2024. City St Georges data based on merged data from predecessor institutions City, University of London and St Georges, University of London.

Contribution to ranking: 50pts, 5%

Career on track

A third measure derived from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey based on the responses on a five-point scale of graduates 15 months after leaving university to a statement on whether they felt that their early-stage careers were on track and in line with their expectations: 'My current work/activity fits with my future plans'.

Source: Hesa, Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021-22, published in June 2024. City St Georges data based on merged data from predecessor institutions City, University of London and St Georges, University of London.

Contribution to ranking: 50pts, 5%

Research quality

Based on performance in the Research Excellence Framework 2021, published in May 2022. The percentage score is based on the maximum possible score had all research been given the top 4* (world-leading) rating. A Grade Point Average has been produced based on the volume of work graded 4* (world-leading), 3* (internationally excellent), 2* (internationally recognised) and 1* (nationally recognised) which has then been converted to a percentage.

Source: Research Excellence Framework 2021, except University of Buckingham, which does not enter REF as it is a private institution. (Buckingham, which is research-active, has a score of 69.7% based on its average attainment across the other 11 performance indicators.) City St Georges data based on merged data from predecessor institutions City, University of London and St Georges, University of London.

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

Research income

The figure shown is a per capita measure of research grants and contracts based on data in 'Income analysed by source', collected by Hesa and published in Hesas annual dataset on university finances. The staffing figure used for the calculation is the total number of staff whose academic employment function is listed as research-only, or teaching and research, in Table 7 of Hesas annual dataset on university staffing. Points awarded are based on the proportion of the largest per capita sum (111,032 at Oxford) represented by an institutions own per capita research income figure. Oxford earned a maximum 50pts, so a per capita sum of 55,516 would earn 25pts (50% of the total points available) in line with 55,516 being 50% of the largest per capita sum of 111,032.

Source: Research income - Hesa, 2023-24. Staffing numbers - Hesa, 2023-24, the latest available at time of going to press. Coventry, Dundee, Kent, Plymouth Marjon, Sussex and West London, research income and staffing data, 2022-23. Buckingham, institution-supplied staffing data, 2023-24. City St Georges data based on merged data from predecessor institutions City, University of London and St Georges, University of London, 2023-24.

Contribution to ranking: 50pts, 5%

First and 2:1 degrees

The proportion of 2024 first-degree graduates who gained either first-class or 2:1 classifications. The following degree outcomes are excluded from the calculations: ordinary, general, unclassified honours, aegrotat, merit, commendation, distinction and pass (except for pass degrees awarded without honours following an honours course, which are included in the calculation).

Source: Hesa, Student Record, First Degree Qualifiers, 2023-24

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

First-year completion

The proportion of students of full-time, first-degree, first-year students who remain enrolled at their original university or who have transferred to another higher-education institution a year after their original registration.

Source: Hesa, Student Record, Full-time, first degree UK students, 2021-22 data

Contribution to ranking: 100pts, 10%

Ucas points

The mean number of Ucas tariff points held by first-year undergraduate UK-domiciled students gaining a place at university in 2023-24. League table points awarded are based on the proportion of the largest mean number of tariff points (210 at Glasgow) represented by an institutions own tariff points figure. Glasgow earned a maximum 50pts, so a tariff points mean of 105 would earn 25pts (50% of the total points available) in line with 105 tariff points being 50% of the largest mean tariff points total of 210.

Source: Hesa, Student Record, new entrant UK undergraduates, 2023-24

Contribution to ranking: 50pts, 5%

Subject rankings

Our 78 subject rankings are based on a selection of five indicators that are also used in the institutional ranking. The weightings are adjusted, with 40% of the total ranking derived from 2025 National Student Survey (NSS) results and 60% derived from the 2021-22 Graduate Outcomes Survey (GOS) results, published in June 2024.

Subject areas are determined by Common Aggregation Hierarchy (CAH) definitions. All subjects are derived from subject areas at CAH level 3 (CAH3) with the exception of the following 14 subjects: agriculture, food and related studies; architecture, building and planning; Celtic studies; chemistry; economics; general, applied and forensic sciences; law; mathematical sciences; materials and technology; nursing and midwifery; physics and astronomy; politics; psychology; and sport and exercise sciences, which are all CAH level 2 (CAH2). Two subjects  geography, earth and environmental studies (natural sciences) and geography, earth and environmental studies (social sciences) are derived from CAH level 1 (CAH1) subject areas.

Some universities will offer subjects but not be included in these tables. This is due to insufficient students responding to either the NSS or GOS.

To be represented in the tables, 50% of the students taking the subject had to respond to the NSS at the appropriate CAH level (CAH3 in all cases bar the 16 subjects listed above where CAH2 or CAH1 applied). NSS results are suppressed where fewer than 50% of students respond to the survey, leading to exclusion from the relevant subject ranking.

Where NSS results were available, these were combined with GOS results compiled on the same basis at CAH3, CAH2 and CAH1. If CAH3 results (or, where applicable, CAH2 for 14 subjects) were unavailable in the GOS due to insufficient respondents, results were sought from the more broadly defined level above  CAH2 (or, where applicable, CAH1). CAH2 contains a wider sweep of subjects, which includes the subject sought at CAH3. So French studies at CAH3 would also be included in languages and cultures at CAH2 alongside Italian studies, Iberian studies etc. These wider subject configurations achieve the 50% participation threshold (which also applies to GOS results) with greater frequency.

Where NSS results for a subject at a particular institution are available, but there are no GOS results available at either CAH3 or CAH2 (or, for 14 subjects, at CAH2 and CAH1), then the subject will not appear in the relevant ranking, even though it is taught at the university in question. This will be the primary reason for a universitys absence from a subject ranking in which readers might expect it to appear.

Only universities with results in all five performance indicators  teaching excellence, student support, student experience, high-skilled jobs and career on track  are included in our subject rankings.

Teaching excellence

Derived from the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS) published in July, this measure focuses on final-year student responses to the nine individual questions in the first two sections of the survey: teaching on my course and learning opportunities. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all nine questions is averaged to produce the overall score for teaching excellence. This year's survey was completed by more than 357,000 final-year students  a response rate of 71.5%.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 160pts, 16%

Student support

This is another indicator based on the responses of more than 357,000 final-year students to this years NSS. This analyses positive responses to the seven individual questions in the sections of the survey covering assessment and feedback and academic support, together with an eighth question on how well information was communicated about support services for mental wellbeing. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all eight questions is averaged to produce the overall score for student support.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 160pts, 16%

Student experience

This is the third indicator in the ranking drawn from the annual NSS. This measure is based on student responses to nine individual questions in three sections of the survey: organisation and management, learning resources, and student voice. The percentage of all undergraduates recording positive scores using a four-point scale across all nine questions is averaged to produce the overall score for student experience.

Source: National Student Survey 2025, all undergraduates by teaching provider

Contribution to ranking: 80pts, 8%

High-skilled jobs

The proportion of first-degree, UK-domiciled graduates in highly skilled employment as defined by the Standard Occupational Classification, SOC2020, 15 months after leaving university. Highly skilled roles are defined as: managers, directors and senior officials; professional occupations; and associate professional occupations. Almost 382,000 graduates took part in the survey  a response rate of 44.5%.

Source: Hesa, Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021-22, published in June 2024

Contribution to ranking: 400pts, 40%

Career on track

Also derived from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey, based on the responses on a five-point scale of graduates 15 months after leaving university to a statement on whether they felt that their early-stage careers were on track and in line with their expectations: 'My current work/activity fits with my future plans'.

Source: Hesa, Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021-22, published in June 2024

Contribution to ranking: 200pts, 20%

Universities not included in the Daily Mail University Guide

Falmouth University (which most recently ranked 111th= in 2023), Leeds Arts University (126th, 2023), Leeds Trinity University (127th, 2023), Ravensbourne University London, and University College Birmingham either withheld their data from analysis or declined to complete a Daily Mail survey document for this publication.

All five institutions do not feature in the rankings and are not profiled.

We are grateful to all other institutions for their generosity and commitment to providing relevant information for prospective students and their families through this guide.

Single-subject universities (eg. Royal Veterinary College) are not included in the rankings as it is not possible to compare single-subject and multi-faculty institutions on a fair basis.

Sources for other indicators used in this guide

University profiles contain further data, which does not form part of the institutional ranking, gathered from the following sources:

Undergraduate and postgraduate students

The number of full and part-time students at each university.

Source: Hesa Student Record, 2023-24

Where students come from

The domicile of students at each university split between UK, EU and overseas.

Source: Hesa Student Record, 2023-24

Secondary education

The last educational provider attended by UK-domiciled first-year undergraduate students split between non-selective state schools (excluding the 163 English grammar schools and selective grammar schools in Northern Ireland), grammar schools and independent schools.

Source: Hesa Student Record, new entrant UK undergraduates, 2022-23

Ethnic minority students

Students classified as being in black, Asian, mixed or other ethnic groupings.

Source: Ucas, undergraduate reports by sex, area background and ethnic group, 2024 entry

Mature students

Students aged 21 or over at enrolment.

Source: All accepted applicants, Ucas undergraduate end of cycle data resources, 2024 entry

Applications/places

The number of main scheme applications and the number of accepted applicants.

Source: Ucas undergraduate end of cycle data resources, 2024 entry

Offer rate

The offer rate to 18-year-old (school leaver) applicants.

Source: Ucas undergraduate end of cycle data resources, 2024 entry

Sport ranking

Ranking in the overall British Universities and Colleges Sport institutional ranking, 2024-25

World ranking

Ranking in the QS World University Rankings, 2026

Financial support

The sum spent by universities in 2023-24 on bursaries, scholarships and hardship support.

Source: Daily Mail University Guide 2026 survey (completed by universities in March-July 2025)

University rents (per year)

The minimum and maximum price of university-owned or managed accommodation in 2025-26 (or 2024-25 if latest data unavailable).

Source: Daily Mail University Guide 2026 survey (completed by universities in March-July 2025)

Rent as a proportion of student loan

This is the minimum and maximum prices for university-owned or managed accommodation as a proportion of the maximum student maintenance loan available. The loan sum used for the calculation varies between locations and countries. We have used the maximum loan sum available to Scottish students for Scottish universities, English students for English universities etc. Maximum loan values are as follows: England (London) - 13,762; Wales - 12,345; Scotland - 11,400; England (outside of London) - 10,544; Northern Ireland - 8,132.

Sources: Daily Mail University Guide 2026 survey (completed by universities in March-July 2025) for accommodation prices; national student finance bodies for maximum loan sums.

The Daily Mail University Guide 2026 contains Higher Education Statistics Agency data. Copyright Jisc [2025 for 2023-24 data, 2024 for 2022-23 data and 2021-22 data]. Jisc cannot accept responsibility for any inferences and conclusions derived by third parties from its data.
If you want a passport to paradise  and the UK and most of Europe  the Caribbean has a tempting offer.

Five island nations  Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia  are seeing a surge in foreign buyers drawn by a citizenship-by-investment deal.

Spend $300,000 or more on a home and receive a second passport in as little as six to nine months.

That passport opens doors to as many as 150 countries, including most of Europe and the UK.

The five islands have become global hotspots for citizenship-by-investment programs, local luxury realtor Nadia Dyson told Daily Mail.

Demand has skyrocketed due to the deal, Dyson said.

'You purchase the property for $300,000 or up and within six to nine months, you can have citizenship,' she explained.

There are a few conditions: buyers must keep the property for five years and spend at least five days on the island during that time.

Five destinations in the Caribbean have exploded in popularity after a sweet offering

Local realtor Nadia Dyson owns Luxury Locations and helps expats find homes

'That is going to change shortly to 30 days, however it's still not a massive resident requirement.'

Dyson said the demographic of buyers is more and more Americans, Canadians and British wanting that 'Plan B passport' for relocation or retirement.

According to Henley & Partners, a New York-based firm that helps the ultra-wealthy secure second citizenships in the Caribbean, inquiries from Americans spiked by a whopping 182 percent in early 2025 alone.

Many are using the properties as rental investments that make anywhere from $400 to $1,000 a night depending on where it is.

Dyson said if you choose to buy in a resort, as many do, they maintain and clean the property for you, but take a percentage of rental income, sometimes up to 50 percent.

Still, she said, it's a great investment.

'You have a nice place with a plunge pool, you're getting great rental returns,' she said.

And people are catching on. While the CBI program was launched in 2013, Dyson said it's exploded in popularity this year.

English Bay Harbor in Antigua, where expats can buy a home and get a Caribbean passport

Long Bay Beach in Antigua is one of the 365 white sand beaches located on the island

In return, buyers are issued with a Caribbean passport that can unlock visa-free access to over 150 countries, including the UK and the EU's Schengen Zone

'We used to probably sell 30 percent of our inventory to people that wanted the property for the citizenship, but currently it's more like 99 percent,' Dyson said.

'Buyers want the passport option so much so that there are new properties being built under the program which are three bedrooms with pools.'

The Caribbean passport that unlocks around the world access also comes easy  there's no language or nationality tests, and, in some cases, no income or inheritance taxes.

Applications are usually processed in less than 90 days.

Of course, critics have found a downside to the program.

The European Union and the United States have issued warnings in the past that passports should not be handed out too easily - especially to people who may be hiding, laundering money, or avoiding the law.

As a result, the five Caribbean nations with the program agreed in 2024 to tighten their rules, raise minimum investment amounts and improve background checks.

Some countries are even revoking passports from people found to have lied or failed checks  as Dominica did with 68 individuals recently, according to Global Citizen Solutions.

St. Lucia is one of the places where expats can get a Caribbean passport for buying a home

Roseau in Dominica, a gorgeous Caribbean spot with a high rental return on investments

Grenada, where many Americans and Canadians are flocking for investment properties

Brimstone Hill Fortress in Saint Kitts & Nevis, one of the areas with a hot real estate market

Americans are being lured to the Caribbean with the promise of a passport

Pristine waters and white sandy beaches are drawing many expats who want a passport

If you're a good upstanding citizen who is not on the run or laundering money, here's a quick breakdown of the area and why each spot is original.

Antigua and Barbuda are the primary islands in this twin-island nation, with Barbuda being the quieter and less inhabited one.

Antigua has 365 beaches, a new one for every day of the year.

Dominica is known for its rainforests, waterfalls, and hot springs. It's mountainous and volcanic, with fewer white sandy beaches.

Grenada is a major exporter of nutmeg, earning the nickname 'Spice Island.' The island has many new builds since Hurricane Ivan wiped out 90 percent of the island's homes in 2004.

Saint Kitts & Nevis are very small in both population and actual size, with Nevis being the quieter of the two. Many older sugar plantations there are being used as repurposed real estate.

St. Lucia is generally the more affordable of the islands and St. Lucians are known for their welcoming and friendly nature.

The program is also helping to improve the islands, which are often overrun with poverty and inequality that leads to drug trafficking and gang warfare to domestic violence and theft.

Antigua's program helped the country avoid bankruptcy. Grenada saw revenues from golden passports equal more than a quarter of its entire economy in 2023.

The median home price in all five spots for properties included in citizenship by investment programs ranges from $200,000 to $400,000.

'It's a great investment,' Dyson said.

'These areas are crying out for more rental properties as people love coming here for a holiday so there's no restrictions on renting it.'
Whether it's splashing out on a fancy electric toothbrush or hopping on a plane to get a set of Turkey teeth, some people will do whatever it takes to get the perfect smile.

But scientists now say the solution to our dental woes has been right there with us the entire time.

Researchers from King's College London found that toothpaste made from human hair can repair damaged teeth better than fluoride-based products.

Treatments made using keratin extracted from hair or wool can completely halt the early stages of tooth decay.

The researchers say this could be applied either in the form of a toothpaste or as a nail varnish-like gel for more targeted repair.

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, the good news is that it could be available to consumers in as little as two to three years.

Senior author Dr Sherif Elsharkawy says: 'We are entering an exciting era where biotechnology allows us to not just treat symptoms but restore biological function using the bodys own materials.

'With further development and the right industry partnerships, we may soon be growing stronger, healthier smiles from something as simple as a haircut.'

Researchers from King's College London found that toothpaste made from human hair can repair damaged teeth better than fluoride-based products (stock image)

Researchers extracted keratin, the compound which makes up hair and nails, from wool and used it to make a solution which can be applied to the teeth

Teeth are covered in a hard outer layer called enamel, mainly made up of calcium and phosphorus, which protects the sensitive inner layers from damage.

Although enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, even stronger than your bones, acidic foods and drinks, and poor dental hygiene can wear it away over time.

This can lead to tooth sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss in extreme cases.

'Unlike bones and hair, enamel does not regenerate, once it is lost, its gone forever,' says Dr Elsharkawy.

Toothpastes with high levels of fluoride can help slow down this process, but they cannot stop it entirely.

However, in their new paper, published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, Dr Elsharkawy says that keratin from hair and wool can permanently restore tooth strength.

Keratin is a fibrous protein naturally produced by our bodies that makes up our hair, nails, and the outer layer of our skin.

The researchers found that, when keratin is applied to teeth, it forms a dense mineral layer which mimics the structure and function of enamel.

Toothpastes with high levels of fluoride can help slow enamel decay, but they cannot stop it entirely (stock image)

Scientists have discovered that toothpaste made from hair or wool can prevent the early stages of tooth decay and help repair lost enamel

Over time, the keratin continues to absorb calcium and phosphorus from the saliva to transform from a crystal scaffold (left) to an enamel-like layer (right)

Keratin reacts with minerals naturally present in saliva to form 'a highly organised, crystal-like scaffold'.

This scaffold continues to absorb calcium and phosphorus from the saliva, which leads to the growth of an 'enamel-like' layer around the tooth.

That layer protects the tooth and seals off the exposed nerve channels, which lead to sensitivity, both relieving the symptoms of tooth decay and fixing the underlying issue.

The researchers believe that this natural treatment has some major advantages over techniques currently being used in dentistry.

In the future, waste hair from hairdressers or excess wool from farms could be recycled into toothpaste.

That means dentists could offer a more eco-friendly option that is even more effective than existing treatments.

First author Sara Gamea, a PhD candidate at King's College London, told Daily Mail: 'By sealing tiny openings in teeth and restoring lost minerals, keratin-based treatments could offer long-lasting protection against sensitivity and wear.'

'Because hair is abundant, renewable, and often discarded as waste, it provides a sustainable and cost-effective source for producing keratin-based materials to help repair teeth.'
The Shroud of Turin is one of the most well-studied artifacts in history.

Believed to be the burial cloth of Jesus following the crucifixion, scientists have long debated its authenticity.

While radiocarbon dating in the 1980s suggested a medieval origin, some scholars have argued that the blood on the linen tells a different story.

Dr Jeremiah Johnston, a biblical scholar, told the Tucker Carlson Network that testing from the 1990s identified blood type AB on the Shroud.

'The Shroud has type AB blood, identified as Semitic, present in only six percent of the population, confirmed as human and male, ruling out animal blood or a hoax,' Dr Johnston said.

He also noted that testing showed it was human, male blood that was both premortem and postmortem.

'You would have to actually kill someone if you were trying to reproduce the shroud because we have premortem and post-mortem blood all over the shroud,' said Dr Johnston.

The presence of both pre- and post-mortem blood on the Shroud is unusual, suggesting processes inconsistent with natural decomposition, interpreted by some as aligning with resurrection accounts.

A blood analysis of the Shroud found a rare AB blood type that is present in only six percent of the population

Dr Jeremiah Johnston, a biblical scholar, said the blood found on the Shroud shows it was laid over a tortured man

The AB blood type was first documented in 1982 by Italian biographer Dr Pierluigi Baima Bollone and colleagues, who analyzed a sample from the Shroud's pierced side.

Subsequent testing also detected M, N, and S antigens in blood from the foot area, confirming the blood was unquestionably human.

The researchers tested the samples in two ways to figure out the blood type.

First, they checked for antibodies by putting the fibers on slides, keeping them cold at about 39F for a long time, adding A1 or B red blood cells and letting them sit for 30 minutes.

They looked at the slides under a regular microscope and later used a powerful electron microscope after preserving the fibers in alcohol and coating them with gold.

Then the team tested for antigens, particles that stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies, using a mixed agglutination method.

They kept the slides cold for 24 hours with anti-A and anti-B serums, washed them several times with saltwater and a cow protein solution, added A1 or B red blood cells, and checked them under a regular microscope, followed by electron microscope checks.

The results showed the Shroud's bloodstained fibers had both A and B antigens but no antibodies, pointing to type AB blood. The clean Shroud fibers had no antigens, proving they were free of blood.

The AB blood type was first identified in 1982 by Dr. Pierluigi Baima Bollone and colleagues from a sample on the Shrouds pierced side. Later tests also found M, N, and S antigens on the feet, confirming the blood was unmistakably human

Dr Johnston also told Carlson that the Sudarium of Oviedo in Spain, which is the facecloth that John's Gospel talks about that covered his face, was also found to have type AB blood.

There is no image on this cloth. Only stains are visible to the naked eye, although more is visible under the microscope.

However, Dr Kelly Kearse, an immunologist who has extensively studied the Shroud of Turin, has expressed skepticism about the claim that the blood on the Shroud is type AB.

Dr Kearse argued that the methods lacked proper controls and could produce false positives due to contamination, such as bacteria, or degradation of the blood over centuries.

'Regarding tests to determine blood type, it could be AB, but I really don't think there's any solid scientific evidence to back that up,' he wrote in a 2020 study.

Dr Johnston estimated there are roughly 700 wounds visible on the Shroud.

The shroud first appeared in 1354 in France. After initially denouncing it as a fake, the Catholic church has now embraced the shroud as genuine. Pictured, the burial cloth was on display in 1998 in the Cathedral of Turin for the first time in 20 years

'This was a very badly wounded man, pints of type AB blood, all over it,' he said, noting that the injuries align with what is known about Roman crucifixions.

Dr Johnston also highlighted the image itself, a faint, full-body imprint of a bearded man.

'The image on the Shroud is only two microns thick and does not penetrate through the cloth,' he explained.

'If this were a hoax, painted or dyed, the material would have soaked through completely.

'Instead, the image is so thin we could shave it off with a razor. Even the world's best scientists are baffled.'

He suggested the imprint could have formed through a sudden chemical reaction triggered by an immense burst of energy, possibly corresponding to the moment of the Resurrection.

Paolo Di Lazzaro, a physicist and laser specialist at ENEA Laboratories near Rome, spent five years studying the Shroud.

His team managed to recreate the chemical change in the linen fibers using a massive burst of 34 trillion watts of energy.

This 'cold' energy, lasting just a quarter of a billionth of a second, altered the linen's structure to form the image on the Shroud, Dr Johnston explained.

Measuring 14 feet long, the linen was first publicly displayed in the 1350s and presented as the actual burial cloth of Christ.

While 1988 radiocarbon dating placed its origin between 1260 and 1390 AD, Dr Johnston contends that only a contaminated corner patch, not the original linen, was tested.

'The actual linen has never been radiocarbon dated, just the upper-left corner patch, which was contaminated,' he said.

Dr Johnston described the Shroud as 'the most lied about and misunderstood artifact in the world' and thanked Carlson for the opportunity to share his findings.
It is predicted to be one of the most devastating earthquakes in history.

And now scientists have issued a chilling warning about 'The Big One'  a megaearthquake set to rock California's notorious San Andreas fault.

Experts from Caltech in Pasadena have studied a 7.7magnitude earthquake that shook Myanmar in March along the Sagaing fault  a fault known for being eerily similar to San Andreas.

That earthquake ended up rupturing a much longer section of the fault than scientists expected, killing thousands and causing widespread damage.

According to the researchers, this suggests The Big One could also be even bigger than we originally thought.

'Future earthquakes might not simply repeat past known earthquakes,' said JeanPhilippe Avouac, coauthor of the study.

'Successive ruptures of a given fault, even as simple as the Sagaing or the San Andreas faults, can be very different and can release even more than the deficit of slip since the last event.

'In addition, historical records are generally far too short for statistical models to represent the full range of possible earthquakes and eventual patterns in earthquake recurrence.'

The devastating earthquake hit Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing more than 2,000 people, and leaving 3,900 injured

Experts from Caltech in Pasadena have studied a 7.7magnitude earthquake that shook Myanmar in March along the Sagaing fault  a fault known for being eerily similar to the San Andreas

The devastating earthquake hit Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing more than 2,000 people, and leaving 3,900 injured.

The quake occurred when a section of the Sagaing fault ruptured, causing widespread damage along a swathe of territory down the middle of the country, including Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway and Bago regions and Shan State.

In their new study, the Caltech team used satellite imagery of the Sagaing Fault's motion to understand exactly what happened  and whether a similar incident could happen in California.

'This earthquake turned out to be an ideal case to apply image correlation methods that were developed by our research group,' said Solene Antoine, first author of the study.

'They allow us to measure ground displacements at the fault, where the alternative method, radar interferometry, is blind due to phenomenon like decorrelation [a process to decouple signals] and limited sensitivity to northsouth displacements.'

Based on studies of previous tremors along the Sagaing fault, the researchers expected that the earthquake would occur on a 186mile (300kilometer) section of the fault, where no large earthquakes had occurred since 1839.

The satellite images confirmed that this was the case  but that the fault actually slipped along a total of more than 310 miles (500km).

In fact, the 310mile section shifted by a whopping 9.8ft (three metres) after the quake.

It is predicted to be one of the most devastating earthquakes in history. And now scientists have issued a chilling warning about 'The Big One'  a megaearthquake set to rock California's notorious San Andreas fault

So, what does this mean for The Big One?

Well, according to the researchers, it suggests The Big One won't look like anything we've seen before.

Previous earthquakes on the San Andreas Fault include a 7.9magnitude earthquake in 1857, which ruptured the fault from Monterey County all the way to Los Angeles County.

Meanwhile, in 1906, an earthquake began just offshore of San Francisco, before rupturing in two directions, towards Humboldt County and Santa Cruz County.

Instead, a future rupture could result in smaller, separate earthquakes.

Or, it could be even bigger than those seen before  rupturing the fault all the way into San Bernardino, Riverside, and Imperial counties, and reaching a magnitude of 8.

The researchers now hope to use their new models to better understand what The Big One will actually look like.

'Physicsbased models provide an alternative approach with the advantage that they could, in principle, be tuned to observations and used for timedependent forecast,' Professor Avouac added.
Experts have warned of a 'frightening expansion' of 'Orwellian' technology as the government expands the use of live facial recognition across the country.

Ten vans equipped with facial recognition cameras will be deployed across seven police forces  Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley and Hampshire.

The Home Office maintains that this technology will only be used to catch 'highharm' offenders with rules to ensure 'safeguards and oversight'.

According to the government, the technology has already been used to make 580 arrests in London over the last year, including 52 registered sex offenders.

However, rights groups have raised concerns that the unprecedented rollout of this surveillance technology risks becoming overly intrusive.

Rebecca Vincent, interim director of Big Brother Watch, says that the move 'represents a significant expansion of the surveillance state.'

Ms Vincent adds: 'Live facial recognition turns every passerby into a walking barcode and treats us all as a nation of suspects.

'This move is not only worrying for our privacy rights, it is worrying for our democracy.'

The Home Office has announced that it will fund 10 new live facial recognition vans to deploy across seven police forces. Those forces are Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley and Hampshire

Facial recognition vans work by using cameras to automatically scan the facial features of passersby and record measurements, such as the distance between the eyes.

This data is then compared to an existing watchlist while an officer checks the matches flagged by the system.

Under current rules, the technology can only be used to search for watch lists of wanted criminals, suspects, or individuals subject to bail or court order conditions.

However, the government is also preparing for a consultation in Autumn, which will help 'shape a new framework' for the technology's use.

Facial recognition was first used in the UK during the UEFA Champions League final in Cardiff in 2017, but has since been used more widely.

The most enthusiastic adopters of the technology have been police forces in South Wales, London, and Essex.

Chief Superintendent Tim Morgan, from South Wales Police, which is coordinating the rollout, insisted the technology would be used 'ethically'.

However, Big Brother Watch is concerned that there is a clear legal framework to ensure that facial recognition doesn't infringe on individuals' right to privacy.

Campaign groups have raised concerns that the use of facial recognition is overly invasive and 'worrying for our democracy'

What is live facial recognition? As the name suggests, live facial recognition allows the police to recognise wanted individuals among a large crowd in real time. Police use a series of cameras to record the faces of anyone who passes through a set zone. An algorithm then compares the faces of those walking in front of the camera to a 'watchlist' of wanted criminals and an alert is generated if the AI spots a match. According to South Wales Police, the watchlist includes individuals who are wanted for committing crime, who are banned from an area or who pose a risk to the public. The cameras look just like standard CCTV cameras, but do not record footage. In the event of a 'no match', the data will be deleted immediately and automatically. Advertisement

Big Brother Watch points out that Parliament never formally voted to authorise the use of facial recognition.

Instead, police forces have relied on a 'patchwork' of legislation to justify and manage the use of facial recognition.

Ms Vincent says: 'Police have interpreted the absence of any legislative basis authorising the use of this intrusive technology as carte blanche to continue to roll it out unfettered, despite the fact that a crucial judicial review on the matter is pending.'

She adds: 'The Home Office must scrap its plans to roll out further live facial recognition capacity until robust legislative safeguards are established.'

Likewise, Big Brother Watch alleges that the use of preapproved watchlists has not prevented innocent members of the public from being swept up in arrests.

The group is currently assisting antiknife crime community worker Shaun Thompson in his legal challenge against the Met Police after he was wrongly identified by a facial recognition camera.

The group also alleges that there have been incidents in which 'protesters not wanted for any crime and people with mental health issues' have appeared on police facial recognition watchlists.

The 10 new facial recognition vans will be deployed in the coming weeks, and it will be entirely up to individual police forces how and when they are deployed.

Big Brother Watch has branded the wider rollout of facial recognition as 'Orwellian', and points out that MPs have never voted on legislation authorising the use of this technology. Pictured: Big Brother Watch campaigners protest in front of a facial recognition van in Stratford, London

However, the Home Office insists that the vans will operate according to strict rules and only be used when there is 'specific intelligence'.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper says: 'Facial recognition will be used in a targeted way to identify sex offenders or people wanted for the most serious crimes who the police have not been able to find.'

The Home Office also argues that the algorithm used by the facial recognition vans has been independently tested for bias by the National Physical Laboratory.

The rollout comes ahead of a planned consultation on how the technology should be used and what can be done to ensure transparency and public trust.

Each police force involved using one of the new vans must have 'clear monitoring' of their use and effectiveness for use in the consultation.

Lindsey Chiswick, National Police Chiefs Council lead for facial recognition, says: 'Each Live Facial Recognition deployment will be targeted, intelligenceled, within a set geographical location and for defined period of time, ensuring deployments are proportionate, lawful and necessary.

'I am confident that the increased use of this technology will continue to support the safety of communities across the country moving forward.'

The Home Office has been contacted for additional comment.
Two people buried in early medieval England had West African ancestry, experts have revealed, in a discovery that rewrites British history.

The find provides the first direct evidence of a connection between Britain and Africa in the seventh century, more than 1,300 years ago.

Archaeologists made the discovery after analysing DNA from a girl who had been buried in Kent and a young man laid to rest in Dorset.

Both had recent ancestors, likely grandparents, from West Africa, the experts said.

And in both cases, the individuals had been laid to rest as typical members of the local community  suggesting they were valued by the societies in which they lived.

'Our results emphasise the cosmopolitan nature of England in the early medieval period, pointing to a diverse population with farflung connections who were, nonetheless, fully integrated into the fabric of daily life,' Dr Ceiridwen Edwards, from the University of Huddersfield, said.

For both individuals, the mitochondrial DNA inherited from their mothers was northern European.

But the autosomal DNA, inherited from both parents, showed strong genetic links to presentday Yoruba, Mende, Mandenka and Esan groups from subSaharan West Africa  thousands of miles away.

The skeletal remains of the girl from the Updown cemetery, along with a plan indicating the positioning of grave goods

The man unearthed at Worth Matravers, in Dorset, was buried alongside a British male and an anchor made of local limestone

Your browser does not support iframes.

Further investigation suggests they both had one grandparent from their father's side from West Africa.

The girl, buried in Updown in Kent, was found with several items including a pot possibly imported from Frankish Gaul  an area that encompasses presentday France, Belgium and Luxembourg  and a spoon that could indicate the individual's Christian faith.

The Updown cemetery was part of Kent's royal network and these goods point to the area's continental connections.

Meanwhile the man unearthed at Worth Matravers, in Dorset, was buried alongside a British male and an anchor made of local limestone.

'Kent has always been a conduit for influence from the adjacent continent and this was particularly marked in the sixth century,' Professor Duncan Sayer, from the University of Lancashire, said.

On the other hand, Dorset sat 'on the fringes of continental influence'.

'The archaeological evidence suggests a marked and notable cultural divide between Dorset and areas to the west, and the AngloSaxon influenced areas to the East,' Dr Edwards explained.

Both discoveries, published in the journal Antiquity, add a new dimension to understanding longdistance movement and interaction involving Britain during the Early Middle Ages.

Excavation at the Worth Matravers cemetery. The findings provide the first direct evidence of a connection between Britain and Africa in the seventh century, more than 1,300 years ago

'What is fascinating about these two individuals is that this international connection is found in both the east and west of Britain,' Professor Sayer added.

Early medieval England, spanning roughly from the fifth to the 11th centuries, was characterised by a predominantly rural society.

Most people lived in small, selfsufficient villages with agriculture being the primary occupation.

Social structure was hierarchical, with a ruling class of nobles and a large peasant population who worked on the land.

The period also saw the rise of AngloSaxon kingdoms, the influence of Christianity, and eventually, Viking incursions and settlements.
It's one of the most eagerly anticipated movies in Hollywood, starring Andrew Garfield as the notorious OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman.

But as hype around 'Artificial' builds, one key question remains  who is brave enough to take on the role of Elon Musk?

Several names have already been floated, including comedic actor, Ike Barinholtz.

However, it seems that AI  one of the key themes of the film  has other ideas.

MailOnline asked ChatGPT which actors it thought would be able to tackle the role of the Tesla billionaire.

According to the bot, the actor would need to 'pull off three things at once'  Musk's look, mannerisms, and energy.

The leading contender for the role? Joseph GordonLevitt.

'Joseph GordonLevitt  adaptable, could nail the thoughtfulyetoffbeat vibe,' ChatGPT explained.

It's one of the most eagerly anticipated movies in Hollywood, starring Andrew Garfield as the notorious OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman . But as hype around 'Artificial' builds, one key question remains  who is brave enough to take on the role of Elon Musk?

According to the bot, the actor would need to 'pull off three things at once'  Musk's look, mannerisms, and energy. The leading contender for the role? Joseph GordonLevitt

MailOnline asked ChatGPT which actors it thought would be able to take on the role as the Tesla billionaire

Artificial will be directed by Luca Guadagnino, and is loosely based on the drama behind the scenes at OpenAI.

In 2023, Sam Altman was famously fired due to a loss of confidence from the board, before being rehired just five days later.

Musk cofounded the company with Altman in 2015, but left in 2018  and has been very vocal in his distain for his cofounder ever since.

So far, several highprofile celebrities have been confirmed for the film, which is yet to have a release date.

Andrew Garfield will star as Altman, while Monica Barbaro will play Mira Murati, the former Interim OpenAI CEO.

Cooper Hoffman, Jason Schwartzman, Billie Lourd, and Chris O'Dowd also join the list, although their roles remain unclear.

As for the part of Musk, ChatGPT explained that the actor will need to match the billionaire's look (tall, slightly angular face, intense eyes), mannerisms (mix of awkward pauses, blunt delivery, and bursts of enthusiasm), and energy (restless ambition, a bit of chaos, and occasional deadpan humor).

Based on that rationale, the bot has put forward six potential actors.

The AI bot has put forward six potential actors to play Elon Musk  including Nicholas Hoult and Cillian Murphy

Finally, ChatGPT has included a wild card  Adam Driver. 'If Hollywood wanted a slightly satirical version, Adam Driver could absolutely crush it,' the bot added

ChatGPT explained that the actor will need to match the billionaire's look (tall, slightly angular face, intense eyes), mannerisms (mix of awkward pauses, blunt delivery, and bursts of enthusiasm), and energy (restless ambition, a bit of chaos, and occasional deadpan humor)

Alongside Joseph GordonLevitt, the AI bot suggests that Sherlock star, Benedict Cumberbatch, could have what it takes.

He has 'proven range with eccentric geniuses, and could tweak his voice to match Musk's cadence,' ChatGPT explained.

Oscar winner Rami Malek, who has previously played Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody, is also a strong contender.

He 'excels at portraying enigmatic, hyperfocused characters,' the bot explained.

Skins star, Nicholas Hoult 'can do both awkward charm and intense ambition,' ChatGPT adds, while Oppenheimer's Cillian Murphy 'would bring a quieter, more calculating take on Musk'.

Finally, ChatGPT has included a wild card  Adam Driver.

'If Hollywood wanted a slightly satirical version, Adam Driver could absolutely crush it,' the bot added.
The predicted path of Tropical Storm Erin has made an abrupt shift overnight, increasing the chances of landfall.

Meteorologists said models now show a southward trend, aligning the storm with the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico, along with a northern turn as it moves west through the Atlantic Ocean.

AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva warned that 'since the trend has been further south, that does increase the chance slightly of a US landfall.'

'I still think the most likely scenario is a track somewhere between the Outer Banks [of North Carolina] and Bermuda,' DaSilva told Newsweek.

Erin is expected to strengthen into a hurricane on Thursday and reach Category 3 status over the weekend, with winds ranging from 111 to 129 mph.

Even if the storm does not make a direct hit on the US, seas and surf will pose serious threats to coastal areas, AccuWeather warned.

The most likely track will keep Erin a few hundred miles off the US coast, but a westward shift of the Bermuda High, combined with a cold front and a dip in the eastern US jet stream, could push the storm farther west.

Meteorologists said this would increase the risk of strong winds, heavy rain, and coastal flooding in ocean-facing areas such as eastern North Carolina, Long Island, and southeastern New England.

Tropical Storm Erin is moving west through the Atlantic Ocean and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane on Thursday

AccuWeather warned that the worst-case scenario would see Erin guided directly onshore, 'packing high winds, flooding rain and storm surge flooding'

'Interests along the East Coast of the US, the Bahamas and in Bermuda should monitor the progress of Erin, as a shift in the track could bring direct impacts to these areas,' DaSilva said.

Erin has already left a path of destruction as the storm unleashed deadly floods over the Cabo Verde Islands on Monday, killing seven people.

The storm is currently about 3,000 miles east-southeast of the US coast, moving west near 17 miles per hour.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said Wednesday: 'This general motion is expected to continue into Thursday, with a west-northwestward motion beginning Thursday night and continuing into the weekend.

'On the forecast track, the center of Erin is likely to move near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend.'

AccuWeather warned that the worst-case scenario would see Erin guided directly onshore, 'packing high winds, flooding rain and storm surge flooding.'

Meteorologist Max Schuster shared on X that while the odds of a US landfall are low, 'it cannot be ruled out still.'

'This will likely become a major hurricane,' Schuster added.

'Even if this doesn't make landfall, a close approach would still cause some problems. Still a very large spread, and details remain unclear. As it develops, the track will become clearer.'

Erin is set to be offshore Puerto Rico over the weekend. The storm is about 3,000 miles east of the US coast

As Erin intensifies, it is expected to expand, pushing huge swells outward across the Atlantic.

Depending on its size and strength, waves could reach 30 feet or more, meteorologists warned.

As swells reach the coast, waves and rip currents will intensify. Breakers and strong rip currents will threaten swimmers from Florida's east coast up to New England in the coming week.

'Families heading to U.S. Atlantic beaches for a late-summer vacation next week need to be extremely cautious when venturing into the surf,' DaSilva warned.

'More than 50 people have lost their lives to rip currents and rough surf at beaches across the country so far this year, without any major hurricane nearby.'

From late next week into the weekend, Erin will move near Atlantic Canada, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. Rough seas will affect waters from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland
A travel expert has revealed a nifty trick that helped to save 21 per cent on her holiday booking.

Chelsea regularly shares her tips for bagging bargain trips and and travelling hacks on her social media.

In a TikTok video postedon her account @cheapholidayexpert, Chelsea revealed she had found a barge on Airbnb.

She opened the video with a brief tour of the characterful accommodation, and showed off the boat's fully kitted kitchen.

'Here's the kitchen, I'm impressed with how much is in here, we've got a full oven, there's a fridge, loads of storage,' she exclaimed.

The barge also boasted a log burner and a sofa, as well as a double bed and a bar at the back of the boat.

The accommodation was originally priced at 152 per night, but Chelsea had secured it for just 120.

'I first found it on Airbnb for 152 but I decided to see if I could possibly book it direct,' she explained.

Chelsea regularly shares her tips for bagging bargain trips and and travelling hacks on her social media

In a TikTok video posted last year on her account, @cheapholidayexpert, Chelsea revealed she had found a barge on Airbnb

The holiday expert revealed she looked out for a 'few key words' to help find the barge's own website.

On the site, she managed to bag a night away for 120, avoiding the price hike on Airbnb.

'This is a great hack, I use it all the time,' Chelsea gushed.

The video attracted more than 18,000 views and thousands of likes, while some TikTok users admitted they had tried the trick before too.

'Yep always check if I can find it direct,' someone penned.

Another agreed: 'Yep, used it before.'

It comes as a personal finance content creator claimed he'd found the best way to save money on flights - and said it was more effective than using popular search engines such as Google flights and Skyscanner.

Casper Opala, who goes by the handle Casper Capital regularly shares money-saving tips - and frequently advises on saving money on flights and holidays.

@cheapholidayexpert TRY THIS HACK before you book an Airbnb   Save this for the future and send it to a mate that you think would love this - or perhaps just love to stay on a cool barge with you!!!  @floatinghomestays_mcr on Insta! (I paid for it myself) Theres SO MUCH CHOICE on Airbnb but as there becomes more and more places for owners to list their properties, it is ALWAYS worth checking to see if you can find the same accommodation on another platform for less. This could be on another booking site including:  Vrbo  Booking.com  Sykes  HolidayLettings The reason this can sometimes work out cheaper is because Airbnb charges guests a service fee in addition to the cost per night  Another option could also be to check to see if:  The owner has their own website or social media This one can often work out the cheapest since theyre not having to give away part of their fee to the platform   HOWEVER  The big flag with all of these is knowing that its whoever you part your cash with is the one that you have a contract with. Therefore, its always worth checking out what protection and customer service is available if anything needs to be changed, cancelled or if anything goes wrong. Now, theres pros and cons for both - some individuals may provide a much better service than a big company, and then for others it would be vice versa! So always check the reviews and whether youre booking direct or on any platform, always be on the lookout for false listings where someone has simply lifted the photos from an existing holiday let (let me know if youd like me to cover spotting this in more depth!)   LET ME KNOW Do you double check your Airbnb is anywhere else before booking? If so, how much did you save?!! #travelhack #travelhacks #airbnb #airbnbhacks #moneysaving  original sound - Holiday Expert

The holiday expert revealed she looked out for a 'few key words' to help find the barge's own website (stock)

Posting on Facebook, Casper, who's based in Chicago, revealed how he'd paid $92 (68.52) for a flight that should have, he says, cost $1,050 (783) - using ChatGPT, which he says 'uncovers what Google overlooks'.

Describing the artificial intelligence software as 'your new travel agent', he details seven steps to guarantee lower flight costs.

He's so convinced he now uses the AI software for every trip.

If you're looking for flights a month from now, for example, the money man suggests tapping in the command: 'Find the cheapest way to fly from [City A] to [City B] next month, include hidden routes + alternate airports.'
France is a popular holiday destination for millions of Brits every year, with many heading there for the cuisine, beautiful landscapes and characterful cities.

Often people travel to 'live like the locals', and blend in with their surroundings.

However, there are some mistakes that tourists are guilty of falling into that 'make locals wince'.

Maryanne Sparkes, French River cruise expert at European Waterways, revealed the common error that many holidaymakers do.

She explained that UK travellers frequently mispronounce French words.

During a trip to across the Channel, it's common for tourists to attempt to order local cuisine.

However, the travel expert revealed this was one example where incorrect pronunciation can cause issues.

A popular item to order for breakfast might be a croissant, which when pronounced as 'croy-sant' instead of 'kwah-son' can lead to confusion.

France is a popular holiday destination for millions of Brits every year, with many heading there for the cuisine, beautiful landscapes and characterful cities

However, there's some mistakes that tourists are guilty of falling into that 'make locals wince'

Pain au chocolat is another example of where Brits often trip up, with many emphasising the 'T' at the end, making them stand out as a tourist.

Instead, the correct way is 'peh ah shoko-lah,' with softer vowels and no hard 'T' sound.

Though locals may be grateful for the effort, the mistakes can change the meaning of the phrase and cause some confusion.

'French people appreciate visitors trying to speak their language, but some pronunciation mistakes stick out and can change meanings or simply sound amusing,' Maryanne shared.

'It's one thing to learn a phrase, but another to get the sounds right.'

To overcome the issue, Maryanne advises visitors should listen to locals speaking and mimic their sounds.

It can make a world of difference, and shows locals tourists respect their way of speaking.

'Learning just a few correct pronunciations can significantly improve your interactions,' Maryanne explained.

Maryanne Sparkes, French River cruise expert at European Waterways, revealed the common error that many holidaymakers do

She explained some UK travellers mispronounce frequently used French words

'French people appreciate the effort, even if your accent isn't perfect, but avoiding common mistakes shows respect for their language and culture.'

Travelling around France can lead to communication problems too, with some tourists not saying the names of places correctly.

Maryanne has heard travellers refer to Bordeaux as 'Bordox'.

A trip to France isn't complete without a glass of local wine, but the expert explained how pronunciation can be a 'minefield'.

Cabernet sauvignon is often misspoken as 'cab-er-nay soh-vig-non', which can make tourists stick out.

Instead, it should be pronounced more softly as 'cabernay sovinyon'.

Similarly, many Brits call Champagne, 'sham-pain', while the French pronounce it as 'shom-pan-ye'.

Though some may think greeting locals with 'bonjour' is friendly, it's important to get it right.

To overcome the issue, Maryanne advises visitors should listen to locals speaking and mimic their sounds

Though locals may be grateful for the effort, the mistakes can change the meaning of the phrase and cause some confusion





'Locals don't expect fluent French, but you do need to say Bonjour and a couple of other key words to avoid offending,' Maryanne said.

Many say it with a hard 'J', but it should be pronounced with a softer 'zh' sound.

Another common mispronunciation is the saying, 'merci beaucoup', with many Brits adding a hard 'p' at the end. Instead, it should remain silent.

'In some places, one word is your ticket to being treated like a local.'

Some key phrases the expert advises tourists nail include, 's'il vous plait', meaning please and 'excusez-moi', which means excuse me.

Another that may help tourists who have made a mistake is 'je suis desole(e)' for 'I'm sorry'.
Tourists visiting popular landmarks and attractions across Europe this summer are being warned against purchasing 'rip-off' on online marketplaces.

Millions of visitors flock to European destinations each year to tick off must-see bucket list landmarks, such as the Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens and the Louvre in Paris.

But access to some of the world's most iconic and preserved sites often involves admission costs or extra fees, with many requiring pre-paid tickets for entry.

However, tourists are advised to be cautious of overpriced tickets for attractions sold be third-party vendors, especially online.

These tickets can be significantly more expensive than official tickets bought directly from the source, leaving visitors out of pocket before they've entered the attraction.

Prominent online sites such as Viator have been accused of selling overpriced tickets for tours, attractions and activities - some costing almost three times more than those available to purchase on official sites.

Viator, a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, is an online marketplace where travellers can find and book over 300,000 tours, activities, and experiences across the globe.

Travellers can browse and book directly with tour operators who list the products and services on the site.

Tourists visiting popular landmarks and attractions across Europe this summer are being warned against purchasing 'rip-off' on online marketplaces

It boasts flexibility, free cancellation options, and 24/7 customer support - but some are now demanding clarity on the prices listed for in-demand experiences.

According to researchers at Which?, the site is offering tourists the opportunity to be escorted to a lift by a guide to ascend the Eiffel Tower in Paris - all for the cool price of 93.

But according to Which?, the 'representative' simply waits with visitors in a timed ticket queue, accompanies to a lift, and exits on the second floor - leaving them to reach the summit themselves.

Meanwhile, a ticket purchased directly from La Tour Eiffel, which grants visitors lift access to the top, is a third of the cost at 31.

Global Tours and Tickets, the vendor selling the experience on Viator, is based in Turkey.

Which? also reported finding a company based in Slovakia selling tickets to the Louvre in Paris for 40 on Viator, while tickets are available to purchase for 19 directly on the museum's website.

Researches also warned that some 'skip-the-line' tickets sold on Viator may not actually grant faster access, and that customers may still face queues.

Viator has received a number of poor reviews from customers in recent years, with many citing cancellations and inflated prices as causes for concern.

Which? reported finding a company based in Slovakia selling tickets to the Louvre in Paris for 40 on Viator, while tickets are available to purchase for 19 directly on the museum's website

On its website, one person wrote: 'Do not use this website. Total scam. Confirmed several items, received tickets. Then 2 days before event, they cancelled.

'Had to wait a week for my money to be put back into my account. Do not relay on them in any way to book an event.'

One visitor to Rome recalled: 'Do not do this. Its a scam. You are better off booking through the website official website. We were charged 150 Euro and our friends bought the same ticket for 50 Euro and we all went in together.'

Another said: 'Vatican and Sistine Chapel was great a little long in general and hot in the summer days but definitely recommended.

Viator has received a number of poor reviews from customers in recent years, with many citing cancellations and inflated prices as causes for concern

'For this to be just a ticket to "skip the line" it cost double the original price of 25 euro per person. You can also buy the tickets with the original website instead of this ticket.'

Meanwhile, a contributor who claimed to be a private tour operator, revealed: 'We have two tours listed on Viator and I can tell you that they take a 22% commission so to make it worthwhile we had to increase our prices for tours booked through them.

'I'd rather you book through me directly but Viator can put my new business in front of people we'd never otherwise reach so the pricing is the compromise. We're also not allowed to include photos with our logo anywhere on our listing because they want to make it harder to find the original supplier.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to Viator for further comment.
Lots of people seem to be falling from cruise ships at the moment. Im going on a Mediterranean cruise soon  should I be worried?

Joan Walters, via email

The Holiday Guru replies: In short, the answer is no. However, you are right to raise concerns as it has indeed been a busy period for overboard incidents.

Only last month a video went viral of a passenger tumbling from the edge of an infinity pool on the Icon Of The Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Fortunately they landed on a narrow gutter, rather than in the sea. As this had occurred just days after an employee jumped to his death from the same ship, passengers were jittery.

And earlier in the summer a five-year-old girl somehow  it has not been established exactly how  fell into the sea from the fourth deck of the Disney Dream ship returning to Florida from the Bahamas. Her father leapt in after her and they were rescued by crew on a tender boat.

Its estimated that 19 cruise ship passengers and crew members fell overboard worldwide last year, with 422 since 2000. However, three factors are usually involved: drunkenness, suicide or foul play. As railings on most ships are typically chest high, genuine accidents are nigh on impossible.

Its estimated that 19 cruise ship passengers and crew members fell overboard worldwide last year, with 422 since 2000

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, billed as the world's largest cruise ship, off Miami, Florida

Shocking video from aboard the Icon of the Seas captured the moment a passenger flipped over the edge of the Hideaway Pool

WERE HERE TO HELP If you need advice the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions. Email us at holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk Advertisement

Andy Harmer, UK and Ireland managing director of the Cruise Lines International Association, says there are no known cases of someone acting responsibly who has fallen from a cruise ship.

In the extremely unlikely event of it happening, passengers are recommended to float and wait to be rescued, rather than swim towards the ship.

Chances of survival depend on the water temperature and whether hitting the sea has broken any bones. There is also a possibility of cold shock response  when the body is suddenly immersed in cold water  which can lead to drowning within a few minutes in waters below 5C, or dying of hypothermia within an hour.

Lesley Bellew, our cruise columnist, says that the rare falls from ships get a lot of publicity as maritime law requires they are reported, whereas in other parts of the travel industry  such as hotels and package holiday companies  mishaps are often dealt with individually and do not usually see the light of day.

Cruise holidays, she insists, are free from risk and an extremely enjoyable way to see the world.

My husband has severe mobility problems following a stroke and now uses a mobility scooter. Can you recommend any four or five-star hotels on the South Coast that can accommodate his scooter in the room? We would prefer a hotel with a good reputation for its restaurant.

Linda Bunker, south London

The Holiday Guru replies: Try the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott Hotel, which has such a room, but check availability (01202 557702, marriott.com). At the moment it costs from around 250 a night.

The hotel has two good restaurants: Brasserie Blanc (serving steaks, sea bream and crab dishes) or theres Tiien Thai, a well-regarded Thai restaurant. Both are accessible.

The hotel has a pleasant terrace with a pool and lovely coastal views.
A woman who visited North Korea's glitzy beach resort has opened up about what she experienced there.

The seaside retreat, Wonsan Kalma, opened in June and is located on the country's east coast, near an airport in Kangwon Region.

It was originally planned to boost tourism and has been described by state media as a 'national treasure-level city'.

Since its opening, all tourists except for those from Russia have been banned from visiting the resort.

Russian blogger Daria Zubkova spent time at the brand new destination and revealed all.

She travelled from Saint Petersburg to Vladivostok in Russia and then to Pyongyang.

After spending three days in Pyongyang, she stayed at the Wonsan Kalma resort, which stretches along 2.5miles of white-sand coastline.

Reportedly modelled on Benidorm, the retreat apparently has a capacity of up to 20,000 visitors and features over 40 hotels, guesthouses, and leisure facilities.

The seaside retreat, Wonsan Kalma, opened in June and is located on the country's east coast near an airport in Kangwon Region

It was originally planned to boost tourism and has been described by state media as a 'national treasure-level city'

Russian blogger, Daria Zubkova, spent time at the brand new destination and revealed all

'This is a new resort that is being widely advertised everywhere,' Daria explained.

The blogger squashed fears of 'wiretapping' and being listened to while at the resort, and admitted she 'wasn't afraid' of the possibility 'because we have nothing to say that would make someone scold us for it'.

She recalled how they were rarely left alone during the trip and explained the reasoning behind it.

'The fact that you are accompanied everywhere, yes, that happens,' Daria confirmed.

'Even on the beach, there was someone walking with us, but it didn't look like some kind of convoy, it looked more like sweet concern, they're walking, they'll chat with you, they'll just walk behind you, that is, they'll argue somehow that we're worried about you getting lost or something.'

Though there was instances when Daria managed to be alone at the resort, in the middle of the night.

'We left the hotel on our own, walked near the hotel even at night, at 2am, walked along the beach on our own, that is, and somehow there were no problem,' she said.

She recalled how they were rarely left alone during the trip and explained the reasoning behind it

Though there was instances when Daria managed to be alone at the resort, in the middle of the night

As for the cuisine, Daria revealed there was a selection of places to eat at the retreat and she was served a range of different dishes.

'They took us to various restaurants both in the resort area and in Kinyan, and they always wanted to surprise us,' she shared.

'They really adapted to all our interests, there were a lot of types of meat, there was duck, rabbit, different types of fish, they really tried to please us.'

The buildings surrounding the resort impressed the blogger and she described the 'very cool infrastructure'.

'Four kilometres of coastline with white sand have been built. New houses, and new buildings have been built,' she said, recalling the 'good decoration' and 'fountains' inside the hotels.

It comes after North Korea barred foreign tourists from entering its newly opened holiday resort.

The abrupt reversal came only days after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited the site on July 12, where he was hosted by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who described Lavrov as the resort's 'first foreign guest.'

It comes after North Korea barred foreign tourists from entering its newly opened holiday resort. The abrupt reversal came only days after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (pictured)

North Korea's official tourism website, DRP Korea Tour, announced on Wednesday that foreign visitors are 'temporarily not accepted,' at the Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Area, without providing a reason for the restriction.

When the resort was first opened, Kim was photographed standing on a sandy beach alongside his daughter and presumed heir Kim Ju Ae.

Russia remains the only country whose citizens have been permitted entry since North Korea relaxed its pandemic-era border restrictions.

A Russian travel agency had reportedly scheduled two additional group tours for August.
It might seem surprising, but more and more Brits are taking their air fryer on holiday with them.

In fact, one in five have said theyve taken their favourite appliance for a trip abroad.

Some have even started using AOs new air fryer suitcase to transport their beloved cooker to a hot and sunny destination this summer.

One of these people is Matthew Haywood, who even gave his air fryer a name  Archie.

In a video, he can be seen having a morning coffee with Archie, offering the appliance a sip of his cappuccino.

Matthew then rolls his air fryer through the check-in desk, where a Jet2 staff member confesses its the first air fryer Ive ever seen checked in.

Matthew then sends his suitcase off on the conveyor belt, and says: I hope he makes it through safely.

In the next clip, Matthew is seen celebrating as his air fryer has made it to Spain safe and sound.

Jed Barker (pictured) took his air fryer to France in the new AO air fryer suitcase

It meant he could easily cook Croque Monsieurs for himself and his girlfriend to eat by the Eiffel Tower

Another air fryer obsessive who took his cooker away with him is Matthew Haywood (left), who even gave his air fryer (right) a name  Archie

Its all in good condition as well, he adds.

Another air fryer obsessive who took his cooker away with him is Jed Barker  who claims the air fryer suitcase is the coolest suitcase Ive ever had in my life.

The content creator flew to Paris with his girlfriend, and cooked her a Croque Monsieur under the Eiffel Tower.

And because I already had something to cook it in, all I needed to buy was the ingredients, he says.

To be clear, Im bringing this AO air fryer suitcase on every trip with me from now on.

After cooking his Croque Monsieur and eating it under the Eiffel Tower, Jed finishes: No wonder so many people take their air fryer on holiday.

Its saved us so much time and money and given us the best Paris experience we could ask for.

It comes after Daily Mails deputy travel editor Hayley Minn tested out the air fryer suitcase to see just how practical it is.

AO has created the Frequent Fryer suitcase for people to take their air fryer on holiday with them - and deputy travel editor Hayley Minn tested it out (pictured)

But the real test for this suitcase was how much I was going to be able to fit into it around the 4-litre Russell Hobbs 27160 SatisFry. Spoiler alert: not much

Hayley takes the Frequent Fryer case for a spin down Kensington High Street

The real test for this suitcase was how much she was going to be able to fit into it around the 4-litre Russell Hobbs 27160 SatisFry.

Spoiler alert: not much!

If, like Matthew and Jed, you cant be without your beloved air fryer for a couple of days, you can buy one on AOs TikTok shop from Tuesday 19th August at 12pm.

To find out more, visit AO.com.
A woman who moved to one of the UK's 'most boring' towns has revealed why she never wants to leave.

Alice Giddings, 25, relocated from a tiny flat in Shepherd's Bush to the London suburb of Surbiton.

Located in the south-west of the capital, the neighbourhood is in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames.

Despite reading the area was a 'fate worse than death, on Mumsnet and it being named the second most tedious town in the UK, Alice wrote in Metro how she still happily put a 3,900 deposit on her new home.

She has upgraded to a 'spacious two-bedroom flat' and describes the differences between the two locations.

In Shepherd's Bush, she recalled having 'no sense of safety' and regularly received abuse from men in the street.

The west London borough is bustling with bars, restaurants and busy workers heading to their offices.

But it comes with some problems, Alice recalls how there was often noise on her busy road, from workmen, heaving pubs and emergency sirens.

Alice Giddings, 25, relocated from a tiny flat in Shepherd's Bush to London suburb, Surbiton

Located in south-west London, the neighbourhood is in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames

Despite reading the area was a 'fate worse than death, on Mumsnet and it being named the second most tedious town in the UK, Alice still happily put a 3,900 deposit on her new home

Now, residing in sleepy and 'boring' Surbiton, Alice claims she never wishes to leave the area.

There are some downsides to her new town, however, and she acknowledges it may not be suitable for everyone.

Alice describes the council tax as 'extortionate' but notes that it isn't higher than what she was paying before.

While Alice's commute into Kensington is much pricier, though it takes the same amount of time as when she lived in Shepherd's Bush.

But the negatives are easily beaten by the positives for Alice.

She feels safe, rarely hears traffic going by and is able to enjoy a balcony she could never afford in west London.

Alice has found plenty of new places to enjoy spending her time including Bushy Park and Hampton Court Park.

There's plenty of shops to fulfil her needs, from John Lewis to H&M and Fenwick's, Alice is full of praise despite being more accustomed to the largest shopping centre in Europe, Westfield.

Now, residing in sleepy and 'boring' Surbiton, Alice claims she never wishes to leave the area

Alice has found plenty of new places to enjoy spending her time including Bushy Park and Hampton Court Park

Only a 25-minute walk from Kingston, Alice makes the most of the nearby attractions including the Kingston Historic Market.

More locally, she enjoys the Surbiton Farmers Market.

Alice isn't far away from the hustle and bustle of central London either, and can easily reach London Waterloo in 20 minutes.

After swapping 'rowdy streets, terrible bin collections and constant stress' for a peaceful town with green spaces, Alice is happy with the move.
British travellers are being warned to double-check their vaccinations are in order at least six weeks before jetting off on holiday.

According to the NHS, holidaymakers are advised to make an appointment with their GP or at a private travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before their departure date.

Forward planning is especially important as certain jabs must be administered well in advance to allow the body to build immunity against viruses and disease abroad.

Health experts from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) also urge travellers to research their destination and check whether preventative measures, such as vaccines, are required.

They can also use the TravelHealthPro website, supported by UKHSA, which offers country-specific advice, including active health risks, vaccine recommendations and information on maintaining peak health abroad.

The UKHSA says: 'Ideally travellers should consult their GP, practice nurse, pharmacist, or travel clinic at least four to six weeks before their trip for individual advice, travel vaccines and malaria prevention tablets, if relevant for their destination.'

In addition, both adults and children are advised to be up to date with their routine NHS vaccinations - including MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), polio, meningitis, hepatitis and tetanus - as these infections can be more prevalent in some countries.

For holidaymakers travelling to a malaria risk area, they're encouraged to consult with their GP about appropriate malaria prevention measures, including antimalarial tablets.

British travellers are encouraged to double-check their vaccinations are in order at least six weeks before jetting off on holiday

Depending on the destination and activities planned, travellers may also need additional vaccines for typhoid, hepatitis A, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, or yellow fever.

A report published by the UKHSA indicates a rise in travel-associated enteric fever cases in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in recent years.

A total of 702 instances of cases - including typhoid and paratyphoid infections - were reported in 2024, an per cent increase from 645 cases in 2023.

Both typhoid and paratyphoid infections are preventable illnesses transmitted through contaminated food or water, and the majority of cases caught during travel to regions with poor sanitation.

Brits heading abroad can A free free typhoid vaccination is available at local GP surgeries for British travellers heading abroad, but there are no existing jabs paratyphoid.

It comes as a health alert has been issued for British tourists travelling to a popular European destination this summer as two potentially fatal diseases have been detected.

In Italy, health authorities have reported the first locally acquired cases of both dengue and chikungunya, mosquito-borne viruses that are typically found in tropical regions like South America and India.

Both were previously considered primarily imported diseases, found in individuals who had contracted them abroad.

Forward planning is especially important as certain jabs must be administered well in advance to allow the body to build immunity against viruses and disease abroad

However, the two new cases indicate that the viruses were caught within the country, according to the Foreign Office-backed Travel Health Pro.

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.
Vanessa Feltz has launched a passionate defence of Naga Munchetty - as she reveals what working on a live show like BBC Breakfast is really like.

Back in June it was revealed that journalist Naga, 50, who joined the morning programme in 2014, was facing 'bullying claims'.

Last week it was revealed that Naga had allegedly scolded a petrified intern for the way they spread Marmite on her toast.

But Vanessa, who has had a very successful career in the television industry, has given her opinion on it all.

Writing recently in Daily Express, Vanessa said: 'It is suggested all is not peachy on BBC Breakfast where Naga Munchetty is said to have reduced an intern to tears objecting to the butter to Marmite ratio on her toast.

'Before judging Naga for any diva-like behaviour, consider the demands of live early morning TV. There's no time for politeness.

Vanessa Feltz (pictured) has launched a passionate defence of Naga Munchetty - as she reveals what working on BBC Breakfast is REALLY like

Back in June it was revealed that journalist Naga, 50, (pictured) who joined the morning programme in 2014, was facing 'bullying claims'

Naga usually presents BBC Breakfast alongside co-star Charlie Stayt, 63, (pictured) every Thursday to Saturday, while Jon Kay, 55, and Sally Nugent, 54, host at the beginning of the week

'With no ad breaks, BBC presenters, who have been up since 3am, have to swallow snacks at speed while producers bark directions in their earpieces and hair and makeup staff descend to touch-up.

'Naga can't make her own toast. She probably wishes she could.

'If it's rendered inedible by a surfeit of a savoury spread she must go hungry.

'A swift, mildly rattled "could you go easy on the Marmite?" might sound hostile to an inexperienced intern, but the chances are it's not meant to be anything but short sharp communication from someone harangued and hungry.'

Naga usually presents BBC Breakfast alongside co-star Charlie Stayt, 63, every Thursday to Saturday, while Jon Kay, 55, and Sally Nugent, 54, host at the beginning of the week.

A source has told The Sun how she kicked off at an intern over how they spread Marmite on her toast.

It comes as sources revealed Naga could face a probe from BBC bosses, and has been placed 'under review' amid claims bullied a junior colleague on the flagship morning show.

An insider told The Daily Mail: 'She's an absolute nightmare. She has a reputation for going at young members of staff and making them out to be fools.

A source has told The Sun how Naga (pictured with Charlie Stayt) kicked off at an intern over how they spread Marmite on her toast

'She would kick off about the smallest of issues, including one time she went ballistic over her breakfast not being prepared exactly how she likes it by an intern.'

On one occasion, Naga refused to eat porridge delivered by an intern in an ad break, which is typically done, saying it was 'too hot for her to eat in the time she had', the source said.

'She said it's always made exactly the same way for her each day and would prefer if the same person made it who knows exactly how she likes it,' they added.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the BBC regarding the claim she scolded an intern over how they spread Marmite on her toast, however they have already refused to give a comment to The Sun.

The Mail has contacted Naga's representatives, who declined to comment.

She has not addressed any of the allegations publicly.
Good Morning Britain host Richard Madeley has been criticised by livid viewers for his 'rude and disrespectful' treatment of his ITV co-star.

Richard fronted the daytime news programme with co-host Kate Garraway on Wednesday, and the pair were joined in the studio by newsreader Marverine Cole.

In a discussion on new police guidance aimed at curbing online misinformation, Marverine was repeatedly interrupted by Richard as she spoke about racial stereotyping.

'People of non-white backgrounds are [seen as] "troublemakers" whether they are asylum seekers or not,' Marverine said.

Being spoken over by Richard, she continued: 'That is a narrative that never was around when I was younger.'

As Marverine tried to expand her point, Richard interrupted, saying: 'But the more you withhold that information, when it is released or when it leaks out it has much more impact because it's a rarity.

Good Morning Britain host Richard Madeley has been criticised by livid viewers for his 'rude and disrespectful' treatment of his ITV co-star Marverine Cole (pictured)

In a discussion on new police guidance aimed at curbing online misinformation, Marverine was repeatedly interrupted by Richard (L) as she spoke about racial stereotyping

'If you actually, completely lift the lid on this and are open every single time somebody is accused, arrested or charged.

'If you're open about who they are, where they're from, you reduce the impact of the rare occasions when it leaks or leaks inaccurately.'

Marverine maintained her composure while Richard spoke, before offering her reply.

'I appreciate that, but it goes hand in hand with a rhetoric which is across the country now which is, "It's got to be a black person, it's got to be an asylum seeker who has done this hideous thing, and if it is we're going to kick off as a nation. If it is a white person then it's okay".'

Viewers of the popular show were left furious after footage of the heated debate was aired, and rushed to social media to express their disdain.

'Richard Madeley is disgracefully ignorant,' wrote one. 'A black woman is talking about her own lived experiences that the effect online misinformation has on her as a black woman and he's loudly and constantly talking over her. He's awful.'

Another agreed, saying: 'Just get rid of Richard Madeley. He's bad for viewing numbers! A national embarrassment.'

'I wish Madeley would stop talking over Marverine, so bloody rude,' a third added.

Richard was blasted online for being 'disgracefully ignorant' and 'dismissive,' with viewers also angry at Kate (R) for remaining 'silent'

Marverine maintained composure while Richard spoke over her, before elaborating on racial tension in the UK

Many pointed out the irony of Richard's interruptions, given the context of the discussion

Many pointed out the irony of Richard's interruptions, given the context of the discussion.

'Richard Madeley proving her point exactly by being very dismissive,' wrote one, while another added: 'And completely talked over by Madeley, and ignored at the end proving her point.'

Even fans of Richard highlighted what they saw as dismissive behaviour.

One said: 'I like Richard Madeley but he has virtually dismissed everything Marverine Cole has just said, and virtually blanked her, and shown no interest in what she just said.'

'This is deeply disturbing,' said another outraged commenter. 'To watch a black woman who is articulating a lived experience being talked over by her ITV colleague who is dismissing her concerns.

'I am also surprised that Kate is just sitting there in silence. This is what black people have to face in Britain today.'

Others praised Marverine's handling of the situation. 'Bravo Marverine Cole putting Richard Madeley back in his bloody box,' one person wrote. 'What an ignorant buffoon he is.'

A second echoed the sentiment: 'Why is Richard Madeley being allowed to talk over and talk down to the only black woman on the panel?

Viewers of the popular show were left furious after footage of the heated debate was aired, and rushed to social media to express their disdain

'He might learn a thing or two by actually listening to her instead of trying to speak louder than her.'

Another watcher wrote online: 'Every time I switch on to GMB in the morning and see Richard Madeley, I switch OFF.

'Constantly talking over guests and being rude under the guise of it being "journalism".

'Marverine looked incredibly uncomfortable, how the hell do the producers allow this type of behaviour?'

Another said: 'Quite eye opening the way ignoramus Richard Madeley was talking over Marverine Cole trying to get a point across about racial identity.'

'White man talks over a black woman invited on to a show to answer questions specifically about black people's lived experience,' said one person.

'Classic, white men always know best clearly...kind of demonstrates everything you need to know about white supremacy in the UK.'

And Richard is not the only Good Morning Britain presenter to have rubbed viewers up entirely the wrong way.

Good Morning Britain viewers are furious at presenters Adil Ray and Kate Garraway - having slammed the co-hosts as 'useless' and 'boring'

Days ago, watchers let rip at Adil Ray, 51, and Kate Garraway, 58, slamming the co-hosts as 'useless' and 'boring'.

Watchers have blasted the pair for 'annoying' habits - claiming that Adil is a 'rage baiter' who deliberately provokes guests and Kate frequently interrupts speakers.

Taking to social media to express their outrage, otherwise loyal viewers said their irritation had forced them to change channels.

'I can't watch it when Adil Ray is on,' wrote a disgruntled watcher. 'It's been going downhill for years - not many decent presenters on there now.'

Another agreed, writing: 'It's time Adil Ray was put out to pasture. I turn off when I see him. Everything that comes out of his mouth is so predictable. It's just so boring.'

A third chimed in: 'So, you've got Adil Ray, he's pretty contentious on a good day, and Kate the cackling gob on. The day just gets better and better!

'Surely to god you can get better presenters than that or are these the only ones prepared to get out of bed early?'

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 from 6am and is available to stream on ITVX
Alien: Earth (Disney+)

Rating:

Panto season will never be the same again. Disney have invented a new kind of movie sequel crossover, updating Sigourney Weaver's horror classic Alien by blending it with Peter Pan.

Alien: Earth sees Wendy and the Lost Boys blast off from the planet of Neverland to fight intestine-munching monsters that have crashlanded their spaceship on a Chinese city.

Clips from the 1953 Disney cartoon original play in the background, usually while something blood-curdling is unfolding in the foreground.

And there's a lot of blood to curdle  this is far gorier than the version of Alien that killed off John Hurt with a snake-headed special effect bursting out of his chest.

We see people burned alive, half-eaten corpses (literally half-eaten  top half swallowed, legs left untasted) and soldiers drained of blood by scorpion-like leeches.

The instructions for finding Neverland appear to have changed. It's now, 'Second dismembered corpse on the right and straight on till morning.'

Alien: Earth review: This surreal Disney+ reboot is a true genre-buster - but it won't appeal to many, warns CHRISTOPHER STEVENS

Alien: Earth sees Wendy and the Lost Boys blast off from the planet of Neverland to fight intestine-munching monsters that have crashlanded their spaceship on a Chinese city

Peter Pan has become the galaxy's youngest trillionaire (Samuel Blenkin), though he behaves more like villainous Captain Hook.

Adrian Edmondson plays his obsequious bo'sun, Mr Smee, who is now called Atom Eins.

Disturbingly surreal though it is, I imagine this eight-part serial will appeal to audiences in a narrow age-band  old enough to want gore and gun battles, young enough to retain some affection for the innocent movies of their childhood.

My suspicion is confirmed by a scene in which Wendy (Sydney Chandler), and her brother Joe (Alex Lawther), separated by light years, both watch another children's cartoon, Ice Age... a favourite so familiar that they're each able to recite the lines.

Disney might have devised a whole new genre here. Why not remake Star Wars with the Teletubbies  'Tinky-Winky... I am your father'?

Or what about Terminator vs Cinderella, in which Arnold Schwarzenegger loses his glass slipper and has to fight an entire army of Ugly Sisters to get it back?

Before the advent of streaming channels with unlimited budgets, Alien: Earth would have been unthinkable.

It works, up to a point, because no expense has been spared in recreating the look of the first Alien movie, released in 1979.

Clips from the 1953 Disney cartoon original play in the background, usually while something blood-curdling is unfolding in the foreground

And there's a lot of blood to curdle  this is far gorier than the version of Alien that killed off John Hurt with a snake-headed special effect bursting out of his chest

The explosions on board the spaceship look real, not CGI. And in a knowing in-joke, the crew behave like 1970s space-farers, chain-smoking and making sexist remarks... at least until they're all devoured.

Meanwhile, on the Neverland 'research island', a girl with terminal cancer is about to have her conscious mind transferred into a synthetic adult body.

When she wakes up, Wendy is still mentally a child, but she is physically all but indestructible  able to leap off cliffs and outrun bullets.

Fans of another '70s hit, The Six Million Dollar Man, and his counterpart The Bionic Woman, will recognise these superpowers.

The stars of those shows, Lee Majors and Lyndsey Wagner, never fought aliens... but only because the scriptwriters didn't think of it.

Housework tip of the night: Every time we see customs officer Dom (Ashley Thomas) at home on In Flight (C4), he's moodily pressing the laundry with a fancy steam iron. He still managed to burn one of his shirts, though.

Try a lower heat on man-made fabrics, Dom.

Alien: Earth is available to stream on Disney+ now, with new episodes every Wednesday.
The Great British Bake Off is gearing up for its return - but the brand-new trailer sent fans into panic.

The much-loved baking competition has become an autumn TV tradition, drawing in millions each year for a mix of spectacular showstoppers and kitchen disasters.

With the next series just weeks from hitting screens, Channel 4 has dropped a first look at the action inside the famous white tent, unveiling the official host and judge line-up.

However, Prue Leith, a long-standing member of the judging panel, is nowhere to be seen in the teaser.

In the latest Great British Bake Off's trailer, Joe Wilkinson takes on the role of the narrator, which features a space-themed twist.

The clip shows baking ingredients floating through space before hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond appear as animated characters.

The Great British Bake Off is gearing up for its return - but one familiar face is noticeably absent from its brand-new trailer (pictured Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding with judges (front) Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith)

Prue Leith, a long-standing member of the judging panel, is nowhere to be seen in the teaser

Prue appears as the sun with her signature glasses

In the latest Great British Bake Off's trailer, Joe Wilkinson takes on the role of the narrator, which features a space-themed twist

Joe can be heard joking: 'From it grew life, intelligent life, adorned in knitwear and leopard print.'

Inspired by the Big Bang, the trailer replaces dust and gas with an explosion of flour, sugar and cakes, ending with the image of judge Paul Hollywood's blue eye.

At first glance it looks as though Prue does not feature in the trailer, but in fact she is the sun in the animated clip.

But clearly many missed the nod, with one fan writing on X: 'Where's Prue?! She better be back or I'm not watching fr [for real].'

'Eeeerm Prue?' another echoed.

'Need Prue to balance out Paul,' a third chimed in alongside a crying emoji.

'Noooo Prue can't leave,' a fourth complained.

Channel 4 has confirmed she will be part of the new series.

They said: 'As the ovens fire up and a new batch of bakers steps into the iconic tent to face Paul and Prue, audiences can expect all the classic ingredients - warmth, humour, creativity, and just the right amount of competition.

'This autumn, let the universe of Bake Off pull you in once again. Because, as the trail says, once there was nothing, and then there was Bake Off.'

This years series doesnt yet have a confirmed release date, but it has been teased as 'soon'.

Concerned fans previously speculated about Prue's future on the show.

She's been at the helm of Great British Bake Off since 2017, but earlier this year, she said this year's series could be her last.

The clip shows baking ingredients floating through space before hosts Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond appear as animated characters

Inspired by the Big Bang, the trailer replaces dust and gas with an explosion of flour, sugar and cakes, ending with the image of judge Paul Hollywood's blue eye

The 85-year-old told The Mail on Sunday she was 'very keen' to step away from the popular Channel 4 show before she was pushed, and 'might stop next year'.

The filming schedule, which involves long hours under the summer sun at Welford Park in Berkshire, is taking its toll on the television chef.

She said: 'I'm doing this year's Bake Off, and I don't know if this will be my last. I've got to stop some time, so I might stop next year.

'I thought I'd just see how I go this year, because I definitely feel a bit older this year than I did last year.

'Things like getting out of a chair takes me longer than it used to. I don't like big steps without a handrail. None of these things worried me two years ago  I could run upstairs  and so I'm very keen to leave Bake Off before I'm asked to leave.

'But on the other hand, I really enjoy it.'

Prue is also a co-host of US spin-off The Great American Baking Show, and is weighing up leaving that programme too.

She took over the role of judge on the competition in 2017, when Dame Mary Berry, 89, stood down.

The star has also outlasted the programme's hosts Sandi Toksvig, 66, who co-presented the show from 2017 to 2019, and Matt Lucas, 50, who served from 2020 to 2022.
With its spine-chilling special effects and utterly horrifying scenes, Alien was the film that bid a slimy goodbye to the 1970s.

The production, which told the story of a Space mission gone horribly wrong, made director Ridley Scott and actress Sigourney Weaver household names.

But the central star was someone whose face viewers never saw - and who was not an actor at all.

Nigerian art student Bolaji Badejo was the man chosen to play the eponymous monster after Scott's casting director spotted him in a pub.

Thanks to his 6ft 7inch, lanky frame, Badejo was the perfect fit for the $250,000 latex suit made by surrealist artist HR Giger.

And despite having no experience on the big or small screen, Badejo pulled off a role that would go down in cinema folklore.

Tragically though, by the time second sequel Alien 3 was released in 1992, Badejo was seriously ill with sickle cell anaemia, a disease he had suffered from all his life.

He would not live to see the further spin-off films, or the full impact of a franchise that is now being refreshed with the release of TV drama Alien: Earth.

The eponymous monster in 1979 film Alien, which horrified viewers and swiftly became a classic

Bolaji Badejo in the latex Alien suit that horrified viewers. It cost $250,000 to make

The original film tells the story of the crew of space ship the Nostromo, who encounter a murderous life form on a planet far from Earth.

Weaver's performance as the the gun-toting Ripley disproved the notion that a woman would not be suitable for such a role.

But Badejo, who was plucked from total obscurity, proved that he was up to the task too.

In a 2008 interview, Scott recounted how he settled on the Nigerian to play the Alien after he was spotted by chance in London.

'We started with a stunt man who was quite thin, but in the rubber suit he looked like the Michelin Man,' he said.

'So my casting director [Peter Archer] said, "I've seen a guy in a pub in Soho who is about seven feet tall, has a tiny head and a tiny skinny body."

'So he brought Bolaji Badejo to the office.'

In the autumn of 1979, with his role in Alien still fresh in his mind, Badejo gave an interview to American film magazine Cinefantastique.

Sigourney Weaver as Ripley in 1979 film Alien. It was her breakout role

The Alien suit was the brainchild of surrealist artist HR Giger. Its head was brought to life by a separate mechanics system created by the late special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi

He said of the suit, the head of which was brought to life by a mechanics system created by the late special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi: 'It was all manual, remote-controlled.

'There's still a space in it for my head. I had it on just to make sure nothing goes wrong with the posture of the head or how tall it is in comparison to the other sequences.'

The slime that came out of the Alien's mouth was in fact K-Y Jelly, the popular lubricant more commonly associated with bedroom antics than film production.

'They must have had about 2,000 tubes of K-Y Jelly, just to get the effect of that slime coming out of his mouth,' Badejo added.

'A lot of it was spread around the face. I could barely see what was going on around me, except when I was in a stationary position while they were filming.

'Then there were a few holes I could look through.'

To prepare for his all-important role, Balejo took Tai Chi and mime classes so that he could glide in an alien-like fashion.

His widow, Yinka, previously recalled: 'Even though some days were long and gruelling and he had to make an early morning start, Bolaji never complained.'

Horrified Britons watch Alien at its first screening in Leicester Square, June 1979

A chilling scene from 1979 film Alien, which was a huge hit with critics and viewers

A scene from Alien showing the eponymous monster that wreaks havoc

Veronica Cartwright, who portrayed crew member Lambert, vividly remembered the moment Balejo's Alien attacked her.

She said in 2013: 'Believe me, when he comes after me in that scene I didn't have to do anything.

'I just looked at him and, the thing was, once he uncoiled he just stood there. And I just had to look at him, and you go, "oh s***".

'And instinctively what he did was just amazing. He had this incredible presence. And you know people say, "how did you make yourself scared?"

'I didn't do anything; I just had to look at him.'

Speaking to the Mail in 2010, Weaver said Balejo was separated from the rest of the cast so they would not become desensitised to his appearance.

'Ridley was very careful not to have him standing around, drinking tea with us during breaks and because he was kept apart from us and we never chatted, when it came to seeing him as this creature during a scene, it was electrifying.

'It didn't feel that we were acting scared at all.'

Alien swept up at the Academy Awards, winning an Oscar for best visual effects

The star also heaped praise on the film, which she said 'put me on the map'.

'I think Alien really was ahead of its time,' she said.

'It showed that women and men could do the same jobs and that in many ways, women's patience and fortitude and organisation sometimes made them better suited for dangerous work than men.

'Ripley was a kind of warrior and I'm really glad she got to wear proper clothes instead of a tiny skirt or something.

'I didn't feel I had to be glamorous, whereas now with female action heroes I think there's more of an expectation of that.'

'It was my first big, real job and I remember during the first week, Ridley kept saying to me: "Try not to look in the camera" and I'd say: "I'm trying not to look in the camera, but you're always putting it right in front of me".

'I didn't know anything! So I cut my teeth on Alien and every time I did a sequel, I came back with that much more confidence and knowledge and technique.'

Balejo went on to have two children, Bibi and Yinka, with his wife and set up his own art gallery.

Director Ridley Scott on set with Alien's main star, American actress Sigourney Weaver

Ridley Scott with Sigourney Weaver on the set of Alien, 1979

But his condition began to affect him more severely in the late 1980s. In 1992, a few months after his 39th birthday, the star fell ill.

He was taken to St Stephen Hospital in Lagos and died there in December 1992.

Alien: Earth has been made by director Noah Hawley, the man behind successful TV drama Fargo.

Airing on Disney+, it is set two years before the events of the first film.

The show depicts the aftermath of a deep space vessel crash-landing on Earth with an alien on board.

Alien:Earth stars Sydney Chandler as lead character Wendy, whilst Timothy Olyphant and Alex Lawther also feature.

Mr Hawley told Reuters: 'By bringing the story to Earth, we're shifting to, "can humanity itself survive, right?"

'And then it becomes a question of, "well, what is humanity, and do we really deserve to survive?"'
Alyson Stoner opened up about a harrowing story detailing how they were once allegedly sexually assaulted by a colleague.

The actor  who uses they/them pronouns  claimed they 'blacked out' when they were attacked after a wellness event by a man who was allegedly 'well-adored in the community.'

Stoner, now 32, shared the shocking allegation in their new memoir: Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Anything, which was released Tuesday.

'The world blurred as my mind completely disconnected from my body,' Stoner, who starred alongside Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato in the Camp Rock film franchise,

wrote in their memoir, per Us Weekly.

'The last image I saw was a poster on the wall of a ravenous feline leaping for its prey. Then I blacked out and he raped me.'

During that time, Stoner had taken a hiatus from acting and was transitioning away from content creation.

Alyson Stoner opened up about a harrowing story detailing how they were once allegedly sexually assaulted by a colleague; pictured June

The actor, who uses they/them pronouns, said they 'blacked out' when they were allegedly attacked after a work event by a man who was 'well-adored in the community'

The former child star had started working towards becoming a full-time mental health professional and advocate for current child actors and influencers.

The Disney alum said the alleged sexual assault occurred after she ran into the colleague at an unnamed wellness event.

The two allegedly ended up alone together after Stoner accepted the colleague's invitation to learn more about his products.

Stoner did not reveal their alleged attacker's name in their memoir before detailing how he allegedly treated them like 'an inanimate object.'

'He opened the door to a room on the first floor of an apartment building,' they wrote before remembering the thought that crossed their mind at the time.

'Is this his lab or his residence? It was common for entrepreneurs and creatives to have live-work spaces, but this looked nothing like the setup from the photos he showed me.'

Stoner claimed that the man's place had 'no chairs to sit on' and they ended up sitting on the floor.

They recalled feeling 'uncomfortable' that they noticed the man's 'eyes focused on my crotch.'

'His eyes burned a hole in my body as he calculated his next move. Suddenly, his hand reached to grab my crotch, and I swatted him away.'

The Disney alum starred alongside Demi Lovato in the Disney Channel film franchise Camp Rock; pictured in Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam portrait

Stoner, now 32, shared the shocking allegation in their new memoir: Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Anything

During that time, Stoner had taken a hiatus from acting and was transitioning away from content creation; pictured August 2018

Stoner remembered how they were crying when the man, who was bigger than them, allegedly overpowered and trapped them in a small corner of his room.

'Still on the floor, he wrestled me toward the back corner of the room as I fought back tears. With one arm, he lifted my whole body onto his bed, which was tucked into a recessed nook with three walls enclosing it.'

When the alleged assailant tried to 'remove' their clothes, Stoner said their 'legs fused together and I didn't move.'

'I briefly exited my body to go into analytical survivor mode: Stay present and list your options. You know what might happen. How can you get out of this alive? Your phone is out of reach. If you scream, he might muffle you.

'If you run for the door, he's massive and will beat you there and maybe make it more painful,' they added.

Stoner recalled feeling themselves becoming 'more and more trapped and unable to function.'

However, the Disney alum said they fought through the 'dread' and was able to get their attacker to stop.

'Like a child trying to fool his parents, he stopped communicating and pretended to fall asleep instantly, though his body was visibly charged with energy. I tried to match his nonchalance and deescalate the situation.'

The former child star had started working towards becoming a full-time mental health professional and advocate for current child actors and influencers; pictured July

Stoner remembered how they were crying when the man, who was bigger than them, allegedly overpowered and trapped them in a small corner of his room; pictured October 2018

But Stoner claimed the man continued to assault them anyway.

'There was no reasoning or physically fighting my way out. My defenses waned as his hands pulled my pants to my knees, flipping me to the side where I could momentarily see his bare body in my periphery.

'He separated my legs like I was an inanimate object.'

In their memoir, Stoner also opened up about their experience in Hollywood  just shortly after they shared a story about how they were fired from a kids' show after first coming out as queer.

In a 2018 Teen Vogue interview, they claimed it was 'definitely discrimination' when they were let go from a show they opted out of naming.

'I did end up getting fired from a children's show beccause they felt that I was unsafe, now that they knew I was queer to be around kids,' they said on the I'm Literally Screaming podcast in June 2023.
Imogen Anthony has debuted a bold new look on social media.

The former girlfriend of Kyle Sandilands had fans doing a double take on Tuesday when she unveiled her latest gothic transformation.

In the footage, the 34-year-old looked unrecognisable as she ditched her blonde locks in favour of a jet-black mane.

She added to her look with a sleeveless all-black ensemble that featured a dramatic bustline, and exposed her lower back.

The model highlighted her flawless features with heavily pencilled eyeliner and a subtle lip to complete the drama.

She captioned the clip with some amusing words.

Imogen Anthony has debuted a bold new look on social media. Pictured

The model and former girlfriend of Kyle Sandilands had fans doing a double take on Tuesday when she unveiled her latest gothic transformation

'Funeral attire,' she wrote

Many of Imogen's followers took to the comment section to share their appreciation.

'Gorgeous... and love this dress!' one person wrote.

'It's giving Evanescence vibes. I'm obsessed,' a second added.

'Gorgeous, and love this dress!' wrote another, while one more referenced director Luc Besson's 1997 sci-fi hit, writing: 'Giving 5th element!!'

Imogen married her partner Harley Jones in November 2022 in Las Vegas.

She and her radio star ex-boyfriend Kyle were together from 2011 to 2019, but he never popped the question to her.

The media titan announced his shock split from the Big Brother VIP star on The Kyle and Jackie O Show in November 2019.

In the footage, the 34-year-old looked unrecognisable as she ditched her blonde locks in favour of a jet-black mane. She added to her look with a sleeveless all-black ensemble that featured a dramatic bustline, and exposed her lower back

Imogen and her radio star ex-boyfriend Kyle were together from 2011 to 2019

The couple began dating in 2011 after meeting at Kyle's 40th birthday party.

They lived together in a $3,000-a-week rented property in Sydney's Hunters Hill.

They also spent time at Kyle's $2.9million ranch in the NSW Southern Highlands.

In 2018, Imogen provided an insight into their personal lives.

'Social media has a perception of showing you what you want to see. But for us there is a lot of sitting around doing f**king nothing,' she told News.com.au.

'We have quiet nights all the time that's all we do is quiet nights, like sitting in front of Netflix where we have shows we watch constantly.

'But we have things being constant too. We have a farm, he's up at 4.30am, so it can be a bit crazy.'
Lisa Kudrow had fans in stitches after her appearance in 2020 political mockumentary resurfaced on social media in recent days.

The 62-year-old Friends star went viral after a clip in which she parodies a right-wing 'non-official spokesperson' for President Donald Trump's MAGA movement started making the rounds again on social media.

The clip was from the Netflix special Death To 2020, which was produced by Black Mirror creator Charlie Booker  who also wrote the film  and his regular collaborator Annabel Jones.

On X (formerly Twitter), commenters  many of whom appeared to have liberal politics  were simultaneously delighted and infuriated by what they saw as similarities between Kudrow's over-the-top defenses of the first Trump administration's scandals and the real flak that Trump's current White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, deflects on a daily basis.

They praised her 'perfect impersonation' of an influential MAGA figure in the replies, with many users finding major parallels between her and real-life right-wing figures over their allegedly slippery grasp of the truth.

Kudrow's spokeswoman, the fictional Jeanetta Grace Susan, was seen in a clip seemingly meant to take place in Washington, DC, as she defended Trump against his multiple impeachments.

Lisa Kudrow had fans in stitches after her appearance in 2020 political mockumentary resurfaced on social media in recent days; pictured in Death To 2020

The 62-year-old Friends star went viral after a clip from the Netflix special Death To 2020, in which she parodies a right-wing 'non-official spokesperson' for President Donald Trump's MAGA movement, started making the rounds again on social media; Trump is pictured on Monday in Washington, DC

The clip was from the Netflix special Death To 2020, written by Black Mirror creator Charlie Booker. Many viewers saw similarities between Kudrow's over-the-top defenses of the first Trump administration and the real flak that Trump's White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, deflects on a daily basis; pictured July 23 in Washington, DC

'The whole impeachment thing was baseless, OK,' Kudrow says in character.

'So the Democrats claim that Trump pressured Ukraine into digging up dirt on the Biden family and their only real "evidence" of that is the transcript of him doing it,' she adds on a particularly ridiculous note as documents referencing Trump's attempts to get Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate Joe Biden ahead of the 2020 election.

Kudrow digs in shamelessly when the unseen British interviewer asked her to say more about the 'transcript' she had mentioned.

'What transcript?' she replies.

When the interviewer reminders her that she just mentioned a transcript, she shoots back, 'Check your tape. I said no such thing.'

Then Kudrow scoffs as the interviewer began reading back what she had just said about Ukraine, before doubling down and interjecting, 'There's no such place as Ukraine.'

'Yes, there is,' he replies in shock, but the spokeswoman shoots back, 'I choose to believe there is not.'

Several viewers in the replies saw in Kudrow a shocking resemblance to Leavitt, both physically and in her defensive tone, though Leavitt wasn't working as the White House Press Secretary until the second Trump administration, years after the Netflix special was released.

'The whole impeachment thing was baseless, OK. So the Democrats claim that Trump pressured Ukraine into digging up dirt on the Biden family and their only real "evidence" of that is the transcript of him doing it,' Kudrow says in perfect deadpan

Kudrow digs in shamelessly when the unseen British interviewer asked her to say more about the 'transcript' she had mentioned. 'What transcript?' she replies, before denying she ever mentioned a transcript and then claiming that she doesn't believe in Ukraine

Several viewers in the replies saw in Kudrow a shocking resemblance to Leavitt, both physically and in her defensive tone, though Leavitt wasn't working as the White House Press Secretary until the second Trump administration, years after the Netflix special was released

Some commenters thought that Kudrow not only mimicked the manner in which flacks like Leavitt speak, but also nailed her appearance years before she became a news fixture

One viewer praised the clip as 'freaking awesome' and said that Kudrow's performance as a fake PR specialist was 'probably the best thing I've seen since Tina Fey did Sarah Palin' on Saturday Night Live

Other posters praised the clip as 'brilliant,' 'on point' and 'perfect'

One user complained that Americans were forced to 'literally listen to this everyday' before launching into a complaint about the alleged fear of facts from the MAGA crowd

Another viewers said they had 'given up' on trying to reason with Trump's most vocal fans, which they seemed to think the clip effectively illustrated

'This is GREAT! Kudrow perfectly captured the Karoline Leavitt person  right down to the long bond hair and vapid smile,' wrote one user who felt there was a strong similarity.

One viewer praised the clip as 'freaking awesome' and said that Kudrow's performance as a fake PR specialist was 'probably the best thing I've seen since Tina Fey did Sarah Palin' on Saturday Night Live.

Other posters praised the clip as 'brilliant,' 'on point' and 'perfect.'

One user complained that Americans were forced to 'literally listen to this everyday.'

'MAGA believe and stake their lives on memes, but call any reporting or data into question and often see document records as a compelling reason to believe the opposite of what they indicate,' they added.

Another viewers said they had 'given up' on trying to reason with Trump's most vocal fans, which they seemed to think the clip effectively illustrated.

'I don't know what is up in their heads, but it is not brains or the gift of reason,' they seethed. 'I am beginning to believe that they are not just stupid and ignorant, but they just do not take in any information that is going to challenge their current mindset.'
Jeremy Piven was the star of the show on Monday night as he attended the Sydney premiere for his latest flick Primitive War.

The Hollywood heavyweight, 60, has spent months Down Under filming the Aussie-made production and touring his stand-up comedy act across the country.

But while raving about his time in Australia - and revealing his favourite spot - the American funnyman made an eyebrow raising suggestion regarding the renaming of a certain city.

'In the middle of my tour, we headed over to Perth which is the meth capital of Australia, I don't know if you know that,' Jeremy hilariously pointed out in an exclusive interview with Daily Mail.

The acting icon then made a quip aimed at the US president, saying: 'And so, in the spirit of Donald Trump, I wanna rename Perth "Merth".'

Cracking up with laughter, he shook his head, signalling his comment was simply tongue in cheek.

Jeremy Piven (pictured) was the star of the show on Monday night as he attended the Sydney premiere for his latest flick Primitive War

The Hollywood heavyweight, 60, has spent months Down Under filming the Aussie-made production and touring his stand-up comedy act across the country

Jeremy went on to list some of the highlights of his travels around Australia, even naming his favourite hangout spot in Merth, I mean Perth.

'The reality is, I went to a cigar bar called The Social Club there and it was one of the best cigar lounges I've ever been to in my life.

'Every stop that I had, whether it was the Enmore Theatre here in Sydney or going to Melbourne and playing Hamer Hall, they were some of the best times I've ever had in my life,' he revealed.

'Sold out houses... It was just incredible. I loved it.'

On Monday night, Jeremy and his fellow castmates stepped out on the red carpet in Sydney to promote the upcoming film Primitive War.

Based on the best-selling novel by Ethan Pettus, the sci-fi thriller is set during the Vietnam War in 1968.

It follows a search-and-rescue team who are sent out into the jungle to recover a missing platoon, and instead find terrifying dinosaurs and an undercover mission that could mean the end of the world.

With stunning special effects and a big-named cast, the movie was brought to life by Aussie director Luke Sparke, who Jeremy couldn't help but gush about.

'And so, in the spirit of Donald Trump , I wanna rename Perth "Merth"'

'He dreamed so big! He made this indie film and he made it this larger-than-life, science fiction fantasy that looks like it's an eighty million dollar movie and he did it in his backyard.'

He added: 'No one's doing that, so we need to celebrate this guy.'

The adrenaline-fuelled film was shot entirely in Australia and predominantly on the Gold Coast, a place Jeremy 'did not want to leave'.

'Big lush beaches, the atmosphere is incredible, people are there living their best lives,' he said of the popular East Coast.

Jeremy rose to fame as the foul-mouthed agent in satirical Hollywood dramedy Entourage.

The actor played the acerbic character Ari Gold on the HBO series from 2004 to 2011, as well as appearing in the 2015 movie.

Primitive War opens in Australian cinemas on August 21.
Julianne Moore was effortlessly radiant as she posted a rare makeup-free selfie to Instagram on Tuesday.

The 64-year-old Oscar winner - who recently whisked herself away for an Italian getaway with her family - shared the photo with fans while reflecting on special moments from the month of August thus far.

The mom-of-two flashed a cheerful smile as she sported a plunging, black bikini top while spending time outdoors.

Julianne also opted to showcase her glowing skin to her 2.7 million followers while taking in a scenic sunset.

Another image was taken of a wooden deck that was surrounded by trees and tall grass as water stretched out in the distance.

The blue sky was covered with wispy clouds that had hues of orange and pink as the evening sun began to set.

Julianne Moore, 64, was effortlessly radiant as she snapped a makeup-free selfie as she continues to enjoy the summer season

The Oscar winner jumped to her main Instagram page on Tuesday to share special moments from the month of August thus far; seen in May in NYC

The May December actress indulged in a tasty meal that comprised of fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella cheese.

Julianne's dog Hope also celebrated turning one year older and the Hollywood star included a slide dedicated to the adorable pup.

Both she and her husband Bart Freundlich adopted the lab mix back in 2020 from Gimme Shelter Animal Rescue.

Lastly, the star showed her Wordle score to her fans and simply captioned the Instagram carousel with, 'August.'

Julianne has previously opened up about beauty and offered her thoughts on the phrase 'aging gracefully.'

During a past interview with As If Magazine in 2021, she said, 'There's so much judgement inherent in the term "aging gracefully." Is there an ungraceful way to age?

'We don't have an option, of course. No one has an option about aging, so it's not a positive or a negative thing, it just is.'

In regards to aging, the actress explained that it is 'part of the human condition, so why are we always talking about it as if it is something that we have control over?'

Another image was taken of a wooden deck that was surrounded by trees and tall grass as water stretched out in the distance

The May December actress indulged in a tasty meal that comprised of fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella cheese

Julianne's dog Hope also celebrated turning one year older and the Hollywood star included a slide dedicated to the adorable pup

During a past interview with As If Magazine in 2021, she said, 'There's so much judgement inherent in the term "aging gracefully." Is there an ungraceful way to age?'; seen in 2024 in Milan

She added that growing older should instead be focused on 'challenging ourselves' and to 'learn new things.'

'How do we continue to evolve? How do we navigate life to have even deeper experiences?' Julianne further expressed.

And while talking to Glamour, the Sirens star stated that she felt 'makeup is something that you should want to wear, but you shouldn't feel like you have to.

'I think it's an antiquated idea, this idea that we put makeup on to cover something up, to cover up our flaws, or to look professional. You can be professional without makeup. Makeup should be a want, not a need.'

She later reflected, 'That's the biggest change that I think we've had in the beauty industryis that you do it for yourself, not because you feel that you have to.'

During an interview with Vogue in 2023, Julianne gave insight into her skincare routine - which comprises of Cetaphil cleanser, SPF, serums and eye cream.

And when it comes to the application of makeup, the mom-of-two explained that she doesn't 'like a lot of coverage; I like to be able to see the freckles in my skin and color in my skin as well.'

Julianne has been keeping busy during the summer season and recently enjoyed an Italian trip with her husband Bart as well as their two children Liv, 27, and Caleb, 23.

And while talking to Glamour , the Sirens star stated that she felt 'makeup is something that you should want to wear, but you shouldn't feel like you have to'

Julianne has been keeping busy during the summer season and recently enjoyed an Italian trip with her husband Bart as well as their two children Liv, 27, and Caleb, 23; seen above with daughter Liv

The actress and her loved ones were spotted taking a dip in the cool water in the city of Grosseto.

Julianne sported a black, one-piece swimsuit while her mini-me daughter donned a shimmering gold bikini.

She additionally shared a few memorable pictures to her Instagram page from the family vacation, including her two kids posing together.

Another showed Liv and Caleb pausing for a snap with their dad Bart - whom Julianne tied the knot with in 2003.

The actress also recently made an appearance in the Netflix limited series titled Sirens - alongside other cast members such as Meghann Fahy, Milly Alcock, Kevin Bacon and Glenn Howerton.

The premise is: 'Worried about her sister's too-close relationship with her billionaire boss, a scrappy everywoman seeks answers at a lavish seaside estate,' per an official synopsis.

The show has garnered critical praise since its release on the streaming site back in May.

Sirens also recently raked in Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for Meghann and also Outstanding Directing.

A couple months earlier in June, Julianne also hinted at a possible move to the U.K. - after other Hollywood celebrities have left the U.S. following Donald Trump's presidential win late last year in November.

Another showed Liv and Caleb pausing for a snap with their dad Bart - whom Julianne tied the knot with in 2003

The actress also recently made an appearance in the Netflix limited series titled Sirens - alongside other cast members such as Meghann Fahy, Milly Alcock, Kevin Bacon and Glenn Howerton

During an appearance on Capital Breakfast with her Echo Valley co-star Sydney Sweeney, the Still Alice actress explained how she has a British passport due to her mother being from Scotland.

When asked if she could 'see herself' residing in the U.K. full-time, Julianne replied, 'I can actually, my husband and I have talked about that sometimes. It could be kind of fun.

'I've worked here a lot and I'm really comfortable here. I've been working here, gosh, probably since the nineties...'

Other stars that have moved out of the United States since Trump's second term began in the White House include Rosie O'Donnell, Eva Longoria and Ellen DeGeneres.
Million Dollar Listing star Josh Flagg has been been blasted as 'tacky' by fans after he bragged about selling two homes that were ravaged in the Los Angeles wildfires.

The 39-year-old real estate agent shared a startling image of burned Malibu homes along the Pacific Coast Highway to his Instagram on Tuesday with the caption, 'JUST SOLD!'

The grim photo showed an aerial view of the decimated properties along the coastline. They appeared to be completely burned down, with only the skeletal remains of their walls and roofs standing.

There was a mixture of rubble, debris and ash still visible from the January fires, which took 31 lives, destroyed homes, displaced thousands, and scorched over 40,000 acres across Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

Flagg shared that one of the homes sold for $5,000,000 and the other for $4,650,000, and went on to repost the photo to his Instagram Stories as well.

He was slammed by fans for the 'awful' and 'insensitive' post, with one writing, 'This is horrific. Dear god people died. Pets were lost. So inhumane to post this.'

Million Dollar Listing star Josh Flagg, 39, has been slammed by fans after he bragged about selling two homes that were ravaged in the Los Angeles wildfires; Flagg pictured in 2022

The real estate agent shared a startling image of burned Malibu homes along the Pacific Coast Highway with the caption, 'JUST SOLD!'

Another wrote: 'Ohhhhh no. Really? You just had to post this picture? Someone's burnt memories?'

'Wow are you really this out of touch??!! Talk about insane privilege. These are people's homes and memories they tragically lost!'

'Posting this is in very poor taste.'

'We dont need to see the ravaged homes that are being resold to corporations and the ultra wealthy to price out average people,' another fan wrote.

'So tone deaf. Very sad reality.'

'Good for you, but this seems very unnecessary. Triggering and heartbreaking for a lot of people. What a disappointing world we live on.'

'You living your best life, commission for ashes is crazy work !!' someone else chimed in.

'Well thats a depressing photo,' another fan wrote, while someone else added, 'You still have time to take this down.'

'This is insanely heartbreaking. I hope the owners are healing.'

Another commentator summed up the situation, writing, 'Some sales you dont need to post. Even if you represented the seller.'

The grim photo, which he also shared to his Stories, showed an aerial view of the decimated properties along the coastline

He was slammed by fans for the 'awful' and 'insensitive' post, with one writing, 'This is horrific. Dear god people died. Pets were lost. So inhumane to post this.'

The January fires took 31 lives, displaced thousands, and scorched over 40,000 acres across Los Angeles and surrounding areas; A decimated Pacific Palisades pictured on January 10

The total economic loss from the fires is estimated to be $250 billion; A firefighter pictured battling the Palisades Fire

In January, Flagg defended celebrities who faced major backlash for their questionable posts on social media in response to the wildfires; He is pictured August 10 in London

'I would say everybody's equal. Everybody's having a hard time,' the reality star told DailyMail.com; Seen in a still from Million Dollar Listing

The Los Angeles fires burned for weeks as firefighters worked to get them under control, and torched acres of land in the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena and Altadena.

The total economic loss from the fires is estimated to be $250 billion, which includes factors such as anticipated cleanup costs, housing displacement and businesses shutting down.

Many of Hollywood's biggest celebrities lost their homes when their affluent neighborhoods were reduced to ash and rubble.

The homes of Mel Gibson, Paris Hilton, Anthony Hopkins, Tina Knowles, John Goodman, Candy Spelling, Milo Ventimiglia, and Miles Teller were among those destroyed.

In January, Flagg defended celebrities who faced major backlash for their questionable posts on social media in response to the wildfires, such as Meghan Markle, who was called a 'disaster tourist,' and Mandy Moore, after she asked for GoFundMe donations for her family members.

'I would say everybody's equal. Everybody's having a hard time,' the reality star told DailyMail.com.

He went on to explain that people could be considered 'famous' and not have a lot in their bank account.

'There's plenty of celebrities out there that don't have tons of money. They're just famous people,' he continued.

'Of course, if somebody is privileged enough to have a second home, their life is going to be easier than somebody that doesn't have a second home.'

'But there are plenty of celebrities that don't have a lot of money and have one primary residence that lost their home. And I can guarantee you, it's just as heart wrenching for somebody who's worth a billion dollars than for somebody who's worth a hundred dollars, and it doesn't really matter.'

Flagg (pictured with co-stars Tracy Tutor and Josh Altman) previously told DailyMail.com that he's focused on getting houses for the victims of the fires and 'can't event think' about season 16 of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles

He added, 'Everybody's entitled to feel how they feel. And of course, some people will be hit harder than others, but there's no reason to make a celebrity or somebody with a ton of money feel like they're less important.

'Everybody is equally as important in this world.'

At the time, Flagg left Los Angeles to work from his property in New York City, and was focused on placing victims in homes.

'Right now I'm trying to move everybody into houses that lost their home, whether it be a lease or it be a sale for some of my more fortunate clients that can afford to buy another house instead of pay rent or choosing to go that option,' he explained.

Flagg is best known for his role on the reality show Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles.

The fifteenth season of the show premiered on July 10, 2024. Season 16 has been been put on pause after Josh and Heather Altman decided to leave the show last October.
Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway moved to Australia last month to begin a three-year undergraduate degree at the University of Sydney.

The future queen of Norway, 21, has been spotted in recent weeks exploring Sydney while getting into the spirit of student life.

But it's now been revealed Ingrid Alexandra has been hiding a major secret during her stay Down Under.

Her parents, Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, have also joined her in Sydney.

The Royal couple have been keeping a low profile after jetting into the country earlier this month.

After arriving in Sydney, Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit were whisked away and driven to their hotel.

Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway (pictured) has been hiding a major secret since moving to Australia last month

Her parents Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit (pictured at Sydney Airport) also joined her in Australia

They have visited local cafes and popular attractions, and were seen spending time with their daughter last week before jetting out of the country on Monday.

Last week, Ingrid took a break from her studies to spend time with her parents and also enjoyed a boat party on Sydney Harbour with her friends.

The party appeared to be Christmas-themed, with many revellers decked out in Santa Claus costumes.

Ingrid looked delighted to be taking a break, beaming as she arrived at the weekday party with friends.

The chic royal, who is second in line to the throne after her father arrived Down Under late last month.

She posed on campus for a series of photos she uploaded to Instagram.

The Royal Household's full statement from Ingrid read: 'I'm looking forward to starting my studies at the University of Sydney.

'It will be exciting to become a student, and I'm looking forward to gaining new perspectives on both European and international politics.

The Royal couple have been keeping a low profile after jetting into the country earlier this month

'I'm sure that I will learn a lot.'

She marked the joyous occasion with a series of images taken around what appeared to be the University of Sydney campus.

While she is certainly adjusting to Australian party life, Ingrid appears to still be getting the hang of Aussie road rules.

She was recently spotted making a slight slip-up when she and a female friend tried to hop into a waiting Uber from the wrong side.

Evidently used to left-hand drive vehicles, the princess was seen reaching for the door handle on the driver's side.

Her decision to move to Australia to continue her studies comes after she embarked on military training at the Engineer Battalion in Brigade Nord last year.
Bridgett Roccisano has celebrated a major milestone following her recent split with her husband Joshua Cavallaro.

The Booby Tape businesswoman, 34, has baptised her four-month-old daughter Elle in an intimate service in Italy.

The entrepreneur revealed she christened Elle at Basilica of St John Lateran in Rome, surrounded by her immediate family.

However, Bridgett's ex-husband Joshua was noticeably absent from the ceremony.

'We had the great honor of baptising our beautiful Elle in an intimate ceremony at the Pope's own cathedral, the magnificent Basilica of St John Lateran,' she wrote.

'To welcome her into the faith in such a historic and sacred place was an unforgettable blessing that we will cherish forever.'

Bridgett Roccisano (right) has celebrated a major milestone following her recent split with her husband Joshua Cavallaro (left)

The Booby Tape businesswoman has baptised her four-month-old daughter Elle in an intimate service in Italy. Her ex husband Joshua was noticeably absent from the ceremony

She also revealed Elle wore the same dress she and her sister Bianca wore on their own baptism day.

'Seeing Elle wear this dress on her special day was such a beautiful and meaningful moment for us,' Bridgett said.

The Booby Tape businesswoman shocked Melbourne A-listers when she confirmed earlier this month news reports that she had separated from her partner after two years of marriage.

'I've always chosen to be open and honest with you all and with recent articles and speculation surrounding my marriage, I felt it was important to address this with you all,' she wrote.

'I am saddened to confirm I am going through a separation.

'This year has brought more change than I could have ever imagined. Becoming a mother has been the most profound and beautiful gift of my life.

'While I am devastated and disappointed the journey hasn't unfolded the way I envisioned, as family is everything to me, I've discovered a strength within myself that I never knew existed for both my daughter and I.

'Elle and I may be walking a different path now, but it's one filled with support and most importantly, stability and love.'

She revealed she christened Elle at Basilica of St John Lateran in Rome surrounded by her immediate family

Bridgett shocked Melbourne A-listers when she confirmed earlier this month news reports that she had separated from her partner after two years of marriage

She concluded: 'While I wish I could share more about this extremely difficult time, I need to protect Elle, especially knowing my daughter may read this one day.

'I hope you can understand and respect our privacy during this incredibly challenging time.'

Days later, the businesswoman shared a heartfelt thank-you to her followers.

'I just wanted to take a moment as I wish I could respond to every message that has come through. To say thank you to everyone who has reached out to me during this incredibly difficult time,' she began.

'Your kind words, messages and support have meant more than I can put into words. It's truly been so incredibly overwhelming.

'Even in the hardest moments, knowing I'm not alone at a time where it's very easily felt has made all the difference.

'I'm so grateful to have such thoughtful, genuine and most importantly loving people around me.'

The shocking split came just months after Bridgett welcomed a baby girl in April.

The entrepreneur married Joshua in a fairytale wedding at St Patrick's Cathedral in East Melbourne in April 2023, a year and a half after he proposed in London.
Ellen DeGeneres shocked her fans when she said goodbye to the United States in favor of the United Kingdom after the 2024 presidential election.

But now the 67-year-old comedian's new life in the UK with her wife Portia de Rossi, 52, is coming into clearer focus.

Late last month, DeGeneres surprised the audience at the Cheltenham Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham, England, with an unplanned Q&A session, according to Us Weekly.

Although she painted a picture of an idyllic life in the countryside, DeGeneres also admitted she was feeling 'bored' after being 'pushed out' of the spotlight in the wake of bullying controversies on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which ultimately led to the firing of three top producers on the series, before it came to an end in May 2022.

She spoke about her new home in the Cotswolds, the largely rural area is South West England  about an hour and a half from London by train  where she and de Rossi initially bought a home, Kitesbridge Farm, in 2024 for around $20 million.

The couple later put it on the market for $30 million and moved into a 10,000-square-foot home nearby named Hiaven, which they purchased for $26 million.

Ellen DeGeneres' life in the UK with her wife Portia de Rossi is coming into clearer focus after insiders spoke about how the two are adapting in a new cover story from Us Weekly

DeGeneres, 67, and Rossi, 52, fled the US for the UK in the wake of Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election; pictured Monday in Washington, DC

'Its absolutely beautiful,' DeGeneres reportedly said of the UK, adding, 'Everything here is better.'

She continued, adding, 'Everything you see is charming, and its just a simpler way of life.'

Since moving across the pond, DeGeneres has reportedly fallen in love with the rural nature of the Cotswolds, and she regularly documents herself riding her lawnmower and feeding her chickens and sheep on Instagram.

'Its a different lifestyle for her,' a source told Us Weekly. They added that the former talk show host was able to be 'chill' and at ease in her adopted home.

The insider added that people close to the Finding Nemo voice actor 'have never seen her happier.'

But DeGeneres, who recently sparked rumors that she and de Rossi might move back to the US, also indicated that she may be itching to get back on stage and in front of a camera.

Last month, Deadline reported that the comedian had signed with the high-profile talent agency WME after seemingly abandoning her Hollywood prospects last year when her longtime CAA agent Eddy Yablans left that agency in December, though he only transitioned to working as her manager.

DeGeneres said goodbye to the US two years after her eponymous talk show came to an end, and four years after an investigation into sexual harassment and misconduct claims on the show ended with three senior producers being fired.

The move followed a 2020 investigation into misconduct and sexual harassment claims on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which led to the firing of three top producers, and the subsequent end of the series in 2022

Since moving across the pond, DeGeneres has reportedly fallen in love with the rural nature of the Cotswolds, and she regularly documents herself riding her lawnmower and feeding her chickens and sheep on Instagram

'Its a different lifestyle for her,' a source told Us Weekly. They added that the former talk show host was able to be 'chill' and at ease in her adopted home

They bought a modern $26M home named Hiaven after putting their first UK home, Kitesbridge Farm, on the market for $30M. They purchased it in 2024 for around $10M less

The stand-up star, who had been haunted by anonymous claims of behind-the-scenes bullying for years before the accusations erupted into public view, later delivered a public apology on camera when her show returned after the investigation in September 2020.

But even though the show continued for a couple more years, the insider claimed that DeGeneres felt as if she had been 'pushed out' of her Hollywood circles due to the controversy.

'The investigation into her show was a major blow,' they alleged, and a second insider claimed that 'Ellen feels very burned by how the world turned on her.'

During her Q&A in Cheltenham, DeGeneres said she misses 'a lot' of her experiences from hosting The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and she admitted she 'would love to do that again,' according to the BBC.

'I do like my chickens here, but I am a little bit bored,' she told the English broadcaster Richard Bacon during the on-stage conversation.

Both women were now without any significant work, as an insider noted that 'Portia quit acting a long time ago, so she wasnt leaving her career. She was already scaling back.'

During her Q&A, DeGeneres said she wasn't sure what her next move would be, though she was 'very carefully' planning it out.

She took that same deliberate approach when it came to moving to the UK.

DeGeneres, who reportedly felt 'pushed out' of Hollywood after the investigation into her show, admitted last month at a Q&A that she feels 'bored' now

Although she and her wife appeared to make a quick break with the US after the 2024 presidential election, an insider told Us Weekly that DeGeneres and de Rossi had been considering the move for some time and had been scoping out potential homes for a move across the Atlantic.

'When they found the right place, they jumped on it,' the insider said.

They noted that privacy was paramount for the couple, but they seem to have had positive experiences when opening up with locals.

'[Ellen and Portia] have interesting things to say,' another source told the publication. 'They were friendly to local people and wanted to live normal lives, but were nervous of any press attention.'

A Great Tew resident who had only a passing acquaintance with DeGeneres and de Rossi added that 'everyone who has spent time with them seems to suggest they are very nice, good company and genuinely committed to making England their home.'

Despite DeGeneres' A-list status in Hollywood, many of the people living near her reportedly don't even know who she is, though a source joked that 'horsey people  and there are a lot of them around here  dont watch afternoon TV.'

However, the first insider noted that the couple have gotten friendly with English stars including Jeremy Clarkson and James Corden, who lives nearby in Great Tew and celebrated de Rossi's birthday with them over dinner in February.

And even though the UK is now their home base, DeGeneres and de Rossi have still traveled back to the US multiple times since their move, so they are still able to see their close friends and family back home.

DeGeneres is reportedly considering a new career move after signing with the talent agency WME, but she hasn't settle on anything yet

Since moving to the Cotswolds, she and de Rossi enjoying visiting a 16th-century pub for lunch on Sundays and going to the exclusive members-only club Soho Farmhouse

According to the sources, the stars have made a habit of having lunch on Sundays at the history Falkland Arms pub, which dates back to the 16th century.

'Its a maze of cozy nooks and crannies, shadowy and often dimly lit with low ceilings and a hearty atmosphere,' one customer said, adding that it may appeal to DeGeneres and de Rossi because they 'can easily slip in unnoticed.'

The couple also regularly drop by the exclusive members-only club Soho Farmhouse when they're looking for a more upscale experience.

Although DeGeneres and de Rossi have taken to their new life in the UK, it has still been a cultural shock in some ways.

Things aren't as 'luxurious' as they were for the two in Southern California,' the insider noted, adding that they now have to do things that were once handled by household staff, including placing their garbage bins at the end of their long driveway.

During her Q&A, DeGeneres admitted that The winter is tough,' though she said she 'still enjoyed it because were not used to seasons in California.'

They also allegedly suffered an embarrassing culture clash when their penchant for large vehicles  in this case their Land Rovers, a Discovery and a vintage Defender  were too wide and heavy to drive over the bridge between their home and town.

That forced them to either take the 'long way around to the village  a three-mile trip,' or to just walk into town, which the source admitted was 'probably quicker.'

Things aren't as 'luxurious' as they were for the two in Southern California,' the insider noted, adding that they now have to do things that were once handled by household staff, including placing their garbage bins at the end of their long driveway

They also reportedly had to get used to walking into town or taking a three-mile detour, as their Land Rover SUVs are too wide and heavy to drive over the bridge to town

But taking the scenic route or turning their trips into town into intimate strolls may be part of how the couple are learning to relax since moving to the UK.

'Theres less work stress and more shared activities,' the source said. 'Its a calmer Ellen, so shes easier to be around. And Portia is really enjoying it.'

During her chat with audience members in Cheltenham, DeGeneres reportedly said she was 'always happiest on stage,' adding that it is 'the best feeling,' so she may be itching to find a way back to performing for audiences.

She even admitted that she would 'love' to host another talk show in the UK, she admitted that the proliferation of phones and the decreased attention spans of audiences might make such an idea impossible.

But the first insider said that DeGeneres is still 'embracing this reinvention.'

'Shes left the Hollywood drama behind for a more peaceful life,' they said.
Kellie Finlayson has provided a major life update following her devastating stage four lung and bowel cancer diagnosis.

The AFL WAG, 29, shared a photo to social media on Tuesday and revealed she had returned to her role as a mathematics teacher after three years.

Kellie couldn't hide her excitement at being back in the classroom as she posed for a radiant selfie after getting dressed for work.

'First day back on the tools in three years,' Kellie wrote next to the photo.

She also shared a clip of herself sitting in her car, applying makeup and glamming up ahead of the big day.

The Adelaide native looked effortlessly glamorous as she prepared for her return to work.

Kellie Finlayson has provided a major life update following her devastating stage four lung and bowel cancer diagnosis

'Aging is an absolute privilege,' she wrote.

It comes after Kellie recently revealed the emotional challenges of dealing with her diagnosis.

The WAG, 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 year, Kellie, who was promoting her new memoir There Must Be More, said 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.

'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.

The AFL WAG, 29, shared a photo to social media on Tuesday and revealed she had returned to her role as a mathematics teacher after three years

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

'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 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.'

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, who was born in 2021, just months before Kellie was first diagnosed.
Larry Emdur has sent temperatures soaring after posting a loved-up snap on social media.

The Gold Logie winner, 60, took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a picture of him and his wife Sylvie Emdur packing on the PDA in a swimming pool.

The pair, who are currently holidaying in Vietnam, didn't keep their hands to themselves as Larry was seen putting a loving arm around his wife of thirty years.

Sylvie arched her head up to look at the sky, looking blissful alongside her TV host hubby as they lounged in the resort pool.

'Never leaving this villa,' Larry captioned the post, which has amassed over 2,200 likes.

'Despite the itinerary saying were checking out very soon,' he added.

Gold Logie winner Larry Emdur (left) took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a picture of him and his wife Sylvie Emdur (right) packing on the PDA in a swimming pool

The pair, who are currently holidaying in Vietnam, didn't keep their hands to themselves as Larry was seen putting a loving arm around his wife of thirty years

Fans flooded the comments section, pointing out the PDA overload between Larry and Sylvie in the saucy snap.

'You look like honeymooners,' one person wrote.

A fan replied to the caption, saying: 'Yeah it looks like it , dont seem to be in a hurry.'

'Love goals,' another chimed in, while one fan wrote: 'Soak it up and enjoy lovebirds.'

One person called out the TV star for the loved-up picture, writing: 'Some things should remain private Larry.'

Another hilariously wrote: 'Looks like a scene from Weekend at Bernie's.'

Seven star Larry recently shared a touching tribute to Sylvie, with whom he shares his two children Jye, 30, and Tia, 24.

The couple marked a huge milestone late last year as they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary.

Larry and Sylvie met in the 1990s on a plane while she was working as a flight attendant and they went on to tie the knot in December 1994

He posted a gorgeous picture of him and Sylvie posing together in a cosy domestic setting as well as a shot of them smiling cheek-to-cheek on a beach.

'10,957.28 of the best days of my life with this incredible human being,' Larry captioned the post.

'Happy 30th anniversary baby doll, all I need to survive is a little bit of oxygen, a little bit of water and you.

'Thanks for putting up with all my s**t.'

Larry and Sylvie met in the 1990s on a plane while she was working as a flight attendant and they went on to tie the knot in December 1994.

In an interview for The Sunday Telegraph's Body+Soul, the couple recently revealed they have a pact to create memories by doing something crazy every year.
Schapelle Corby has taken to social media to announce a new 'family' member.

Posting to her stories on Wednesday, the 47-year-old shared a photo in which she could be seen posing alongside a handsome-looking white rooster.

'Meet George,' she captioned the cute selfie.

Wearing her long red locks out for the post, Schapelle looked very pleased with her new companion.

She also shared another selfie of George in which the chook could be seen posing against bushland.

Followers were quick to congratulate Schapelle on the fresh addition to her home.

Schapelle Corby (pictured) has taken to social media to announce a new 'family' member

Posting to her stories on Wednesday, the 47-year-old shared a photo in which she could be seen posing alongside a handsome-looking white rooster called George

'Hey George, you're so cute,' messaged one user, while another added a flirty, 'Cute, like its owner.'

It comes after the convicted drug smuggler turned influencer was recently seen with a 'mystery man'.

Schapelle hugged the male pal as she arrived at Gold Coast airport back in May.

Last year, Schapelle left her many fans wondering if she's getting ready to walk down the aisle.

Schapelle, who was at the time celebrating her 47th birthday in Paris, set tongues wagging after an eagle-eyed fan spotted a sparkling ring on her left hand.

However, it appears not all was what it seems.

A close look at the image shows the picture has been 'flipped', and the flashy ring she is sporting is actually on her right hand.

A tell-tale give away that the picture has been 'mirrored' is that the Olympic rings seen on the Eiffel Tower in the background of the photo are around the wrong way.

Last year, Schapelle, who was at the time celebrating her 47th birthday in Paris, set tongues wagging after an eagle-eyed fan spotted a sparkling ring on her left hand

In 2020, Schapelle split from her Indonesian boyfriend Ben Panangian after 16 years together.

She revealed her long-distance relationship with Ben, 45, was over and that she was looking for her Prince Charming.

The couple met in a Bali prison in 2006 when they were both serving time for drug-related offences, but hadn't seen each other in person since 2019.

She has not publicly dated anyone since.

Schapelle was incarcerated for nine years for attempting to smuggle cannabis into Indonesia. She was arrested at Bali airport in October 2004 with 4.2kg of cannabis wrapped in plastic inside her boogie board bag.

Schapelle has always maintained her innocence and her lawyers argued she had unintentionally become a drug mule, suggesting baggage handlers put the drugs in her bag. She was released in 2014.
Miranda Hart has admitted that she has to 'live one day at a time' amid her three-decade long battle with Lyme disease.

The comedian, 52, had been off the nation's screens for four years when she revealed her illness and surprise wedding joy as she launched her autobiography last year.

And on Tuesday she took to Instagram with an update on her condition as she teased a 'new literary offering' that is coming later this week.

She said in her clip: 'Hello to you. Well I have news...'

She then started humming the Strictly Come Dancing theme tune before quickly adding: 'No I'm joking, that was a joke.. or was that a double bluff, no really it was a joke I shouldn't have said that...

'The menopausal mounds of this body is not ready for any sort of dancefloor let alone one on national television - no one is ready for that.

Miranda Hart has admitted that she has to 'live one day at a time' amid her three-decade long battle with Lyme disease

The comedian, 52, had been off the nation's screens for four years when she revealed her illness and surprise wedding joy as she launched her autobiography last year

'No the news is that I am sharing some news on Thursday so this is the pre news news. This time last year I was rather anxiously telling people I had written a book about suffering from Lyme disease and other delightful associated conditions.

'I was keeping it a secret that I had just got married as it was a story in said book. I am still completely every day amazed and blown away that people have been blown away by the book.

'That's another reason I couldn't do Strictly as the whole Lyme disease and chronic illness if you are a fellow sufferer then you will know that it really is living one day at time.

'It would be too soon the dancing every day for three months. I'll do it when I'm 60 I've decided. Anyway the news is coming on Thursday, this is the pre news news.'

She penned in the caption of her post: 'News coming on Thursday about a new little literary offering. Nothing too exciting, but my remit for it was 'cosy'. And I find cosy exciting.'

Back in June she revealed her hopes to return to creating comedy - ten years after her hit show last aired.

She has previously said that she 'missed laughter' in her time away from TV, adding that she was 'really keen to get back to some silliness now'.

But it now seems that she is finally ready to get back to the drawing board - after confessing her hopes to actor Tim Key after a screening of his new film The Ballad of Wallis Island.

And on Tuesday she took to Instagram with an update on her condition as she teased a 'new literary offering' that is coming later this week

She then started humming the Strictly Come Dancing theme tune before quickly adding: 'No I'm joking, that was a joke.. or was that a double bluff...'

She has previously said that she 'missed laughter' in her time away from TV, adding that she was 'really keen to get back to some silliness now'(seen on the show with Sarah Hadland)

'Miranda Hart came and she said: 'That's very freeing. I'd like to make something again,'' the Alan Partridge star told the Elis James and John Robins show.

James, joking that the film had been so good it had forced him to give up on his writing dreams, responded: 'You've lost James and won Hart.'

Key, 48, replied: 'It's swings and roundabouts. We've turned you off and Miranda back on.'

It came as the star shared a cryptic social media post, a quote from Virginia Woolf's A Room of One's Own.

It said that 'when you let go of the frantic search for validation, you find yourself exactly where you are meant to be, with the tools you need to go forward. It is from this place of quiet assurance that the most beautiful things emerge.'

Miranda has kept a low-profile in recent years. The comedian rose to fame with her self-titled sitcom series in 2009 and went on to star in Call The Midwife as Chummy from 2012 until 2015.

In 2017 it was revealed Miranda would not be returning to Call The Midwife, citing a busy work schedule as her reason.

But she later revealed during an stand-up gig in London that she had been suffering from 'ill' health

She was last seen in 2020's film adaptation of Jane Austin, where she played 'harmless chatterbox' Miss Bates.

Meanwhile, a 10th anniversary special of Miranda, filmed at the London Palladium in 2019 and described by Hart as 'a party (not a new episode)', also aired in 2020.

It took medics 33 years to discover Miranda had been battling with the bacterial infection Lyme disease, after initially mislabeling her as being agoraphobic - an anxiety disorder characterised by symptoms of anxiety in situations.

She recalled running out a doctor's appointment in floods of tears after they told her she was 'TATT' - 'Tired All The Time' and said: 'I just don't know what to do with you.'

The comic finally received the diagnosis in lockdown and believes she contracted Lyme disease when she 14 after battling nasty flu-like symptoms in Virginia.

The star then shared that she was also diagnosed with ME, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome.

In an extract from her book I Haven't Been Entirely Honest with You, which she shared in her monthly newsletter, Miranda offered an insight into the height of her health struggles while doctors failed to find the cause of her symptoms.

The comedian, who also shared in her book she had married surveyor Richard Fairs, admitted that she felt increasingly 'alone' as it no one seemed to understand the height of her struggles.

Miranda admitted that before meeting Richard, she had 'given up' on the idea of ever tying the knot.

She said: 'It makes me think of the recent joy of getting married, which I had sort of given up on the possibility of, and also the young me dreaming. I've always been a dreamer. It's very emotional.'

But she admitted she immediately 'fell in love' with Richard 'there and then,' just moments after they first met in real life.

Miranda admitted that before meeting Richard, she had 'given up' on the idea of ever tying the knot

MailOnline revealed in October that Miranda and Richard had exchanged vows last July at a 1,000-year-old church in the picturesque Hampshire village of Hambledon, attended only by a handful of family and close friends, all of whom were sworn to secrecy.

'Miranda Hart did get married in St Peter's and St Paul's Church,' the vicar of the 11th century church, Reverend Elizabeth 'Liz' Quinn said.

'But I am not going to discuss anything about it because Miranda has released everything she wants to be known about her marriage and her wedding in her book. And I am not going to go against her wishes.'

Renowned as one of the most beautiful villages in the South Downs National Park, Hambledon has become the base of Miranda's close-knit family.

Her parents, retired Royal Navy Commander David Hart Dyke, and mother Diana, bought a beautiful mansion there seven years ago, and later her sister Alice, to whom she is extremely close, moved in next door.
Influencer Abbie Chatfield has used her high profile to fire a broadside at the so-called 'Australia First' national protest planned for August 31.

Organised by a supposedly 'grass roots' coalition of 'nationalists, patriots and everyday Australians', the rallies are set to take place in all major capitals to demand an end to 'mass immigration'.

Posting to TikTok on Wednesday, Abbie, 30, has characterised the proposed rallies, which have yet to be confirmed, as 'racist' and 'xenophobic'.

At one point in her lengthy post, Abbie claimed the majority of Australians 'do not agree with this [racist] s***t'

'They don't f***ing agree with it. These losers, insecure losers, these absolute freaks, want to feel powerful,' she said.

'I didn't wanna talk about this because I didn't wanna bring attention to it, but it's now getting attention, so it's time to f***ing talk about it and condemn it,' she began her fiery six-minute presentation.

Influencer Abbie Chatfield (pictured) has used her high profile to fire a broadside at the so-called 'Australia First' national protest planned for August 31

She continued: 'On the 31st of August, there is going to be a nationwide protest for all the racists and the xenophobes of Australia to get together and march for Australia.

'They claim that it is about cost of living, they claim that it is about Australia gaining itself back, winning Australia back, taking Australia back  from whom, no one knows.'

Abbie also said that any immigrants who followed her 'were f***ing welcome'.

'These protests should be condemned by every f***ing Australian,' she added.

She took a moment to try and explain that protestors who blamed immigrants for the high cost of living were wrong.

Instead, Abbie said people should consider 'complex' economic and political 'strategies'.

'It is easier to blame people that are (considered) below you than it is to fight upwards, right?' she said.

'So these people go, "I have issues in my life, oh, the cost of living's really high, it must be these immigrants. This is below me, because I feel bigger and more tough than them, because I'm aware of my privilege."'

Huge anti-immigration protests are being planned for August 31 just weeks after a 90,000-strong crowd brought the Sydney CBD to a standstill for a pro-Palestine rally (pictured)

She continued: 'If I'm one of these people going to this f***ing rally, I'm aware of my privilege. I know that I won't get cops coming to me  I'm a white person. I know that in society I can punch down on immigrants because I perceive them as weaker than I am because of my place of privilege in this country that is on stolen land.'

The podcaster told her followers it was not her place to 'welcome' anyone, since she was not Indigenous.

Abbie added: 'And like I was saying before, it's easier to punch down than it is to admit that our system is f***ed (or) understand that our society is pretty crooked and the stage of capitalism that we're at is pretty bad.

'And the people that are in power, that you've been bootlicking your whole f***ing life, actually aren't going to help you. It isn't the fault of immigrants, okay?'

She also appeared to throw out a warning to anyone planning to go.

'If you know anyone who is going to this or posting about this, either they are a neo-Nazi, or they don't know what it's actually about  so inform them,' she said, adding that she was 'terrified' at the idea of protests.

'I'm gonna bet that if you're going to this, (it's) something to do with your own choices, because you're such a f***ing loser if you're going to this,' she added.

'I f***ing hate it, we should all condemn it. Long story short, these people are f***ing freaks What are you even protesting for? Your demands are to end mass immigration. What the f*** are you talking about?'

Pictured: The rally announcement

Abbie's urging to condemn the protest appeared to fall on deaf ears with followers - with many posting comments in support of the proposed mass protest.

'I'm part indigenous and I will be attending,' said one user, while another added, 'Why can't we Abbie? We protest for everything but ourselves. We are SICK OF IT.'

'I am an immigrant, and I am interested to go,' said another on the thread.

'I am extremely worried about the complete lack of care of how our government spends our taxes, letting unskilled workers come here driving up house prices and putting pressure on our healthcare system.

'It's not racist to be worried about the country.'

It comes after a group called March for Australia announced it was organising the August 31 protests.

Daily Mail contacted state and territory police forces about the March for Australia rallies and were told most were yet to be informed about the protests.

Little is known about the people behind the group, but they have been forced to clarify that they are not affiliated with neo-Nazis.

Thomas Sewell (pictured) seemed to take credit for the anti-immigration protest

Thomas Sewell, an alleged member of neo-Nazi group National Socialist Network (NSN), posted on Telegram with a similar event, seemingly claiming to be behind it.

In the image for the post, it promised a protest on August 31 at midday in the same cities with the declaration: 'It's time to take our country back.'

Below the poster, Sewell wrote: 'White Australia and the NSN vanguard have successfully completed the Winter National summit.

'After only just arriving home from our summit today, I have been informed that foreign fifth columns are attempting to hijack our August 31st public rally for Australia.

'Australians must say NO to Israeli, Palestinian, Chinese and Indian foreign interference trying to hijack our common sense patriotic spirit.'

But, while still remaining relatively anonymous, March for Australia made it clear they are 'not members of, nor acting on behalf of, any other group'.

'In particular, recent claims by Thomas Sewell of White Australia are not reflective of the organisers nor the politics of March For Australia,' they told Daily Mail.
Channel Ten's Big Brother reboot has been announced - and the show is looking for housemates.

Producers put out a casting call for big personalities looking for their fifteen minutes of fame this week, as the series returns to the Ten network after being aired by rivals Channel Seven in 2023.

And in what appears to be a response to recent criticism about reality shows being dominated by influencers, the Big Brother team now say they want 'real people' and 'real stories from all walks of life.'

Calling the show the 'original social experiment' in the casting announcement, producers have specified that applicants must be over 18, and be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

The notice also details that the show expects to start filming by 'early' November this year.

Warning entrants that they are expecting 'thousands' of applicants, the producers have instructed hopefuls not to contact the casting department.

Channel Ten's Big Brother reboot has been announced - and the show is looking for housemates. Pictured: New host Melissa Tracina in a promo for the new series

Would-be housemates must also fill out an online questionnaire, a process that the announcement explains can take up to 20 minutes.

'You will also need to film and upload a short video to demonstrate your personality and what it is about you that makes you a great potential housemate,' the casting call continues.

Call for entries ends on September 1.

It comes after Channel Ten announced late last month that Big Brother would be back this year.

The popular reality series revealed in an Instagram post that the upcoming 2025 season would be filmed at its iconic Gold Coast location Dreamworld.

Channel Ten originally filmed the reality show at the theme park when Big Brother first hit screens Down Under 17 years ago.

In the clip, the show's new host Melissa Tracina - who replaced recent host Sonia Kruger at the helm of the series - answered a phone call, revealing that Big Brother had found a house.

'Surprise, @BigBrotherAU is coming home to @DreamworldAU!' the post was captioned.

Big Brother was last seen on Seven with Sonia Kruger (pictured) as host

The new version of Big Brother will be hosted by radio and TV personality Tracina, following in the footsteps of the likes of Gretel Kileen

'Get ready for more chaos and laughter than ever before, with the one and only @mel_tracina.'

Big Brother teased the big news with a clip of an eye in a blue filter.

'BIG #BBAU news incoming... keep an [eye] out,' the caption read.

In June, Daily Mail Australia reported that Big Brother would be returning to the Gold Coast later this year, but did not specify where.

Production company Endemol Shine Australia all but confirmed the upcoming reboot would return to the location where the show was famously produced during its Network 10 run from 2001 to 2008 after putting out a call for local post-production staff.

'Endemol Shine Australia is looking for Queensland-based post-production crew available to work on-site for the return of Big Brother,' the post read.

While no filming location was specified, the post suggested that a new home could be built up North, after filming the latest three seasons in Sydney before the series was canned by Seven in 2024.

The series will return to screens in early November and is expected to wrap in the first half of December.

The reality show will be back at its original home on Ten, with the network vowing to bring the Australian franchise into line with its winning format.

The beloved reality show, which sees housemates compete to stay in the house to win prize money, found roaring success on Channel Ten in the early 2000s.

Since then, the show has changed networks several times - first going over to Channel Nine before a revamped version at Channel Seven.
Peta Credlin has been working hard at the gym ahead of indulging on holiday.

The Sky News host shared a selfie to Instagram recently that showed her progress in the gym.

The fit 55-year-old posed in skintight activewear including a navy blue tank top and black leggings.

She flexed her ample arm muscles as she snapped a mirror selfie to flaunt her slender, muscular physique, and explained she was working hard before heading off on holiday to Italy.

'Progress update before I go and ruin all the hard work with a daily holiday gelato,' she wrote in her caption.

Peta explained that she has been working out at the Enterprise Fitness gym in Melbourne.

Peta Credlin (pictured) has been working hard at the gym ahead of indulging on holiday. The Sky News host shared a selfie to Instagram recently that showed her progress in the gym

The comments section was inundated with support, with TV host Rebecca Maddern writing, 'I wouldn't mess with you.'

Peta replied: 'Trying to avoid the dreaded "tuck shop" arms of menopause.'

One fan chimed in: 'Well done. Healthy body healthy mind. A force to be reckoned with.'

'I didn't think anyone was allowed guns that big,' joked another while someone else said, 'Great effort. Hope the training is going to help kick Albo around.'

Earlier this year, Peta dressed down a male colleague live on air, accusing him of insulting the intelligence of women.

Credlin grew increasingly exasperated with the network's political editor Andrew Clennell, after he said former Opposition Leader Peter Dutton had to bring in some 'women-friendly policies' in order to pave his way to The Lodge.

'What's a 'women's friendly policy' mate?' a visibly unimpressed Credlin said. 'Do you think we don't care about the economy? We don't care about defence?'

Clennell replied: 'I'm not a woman. But I'm saying if (Dutton) went for that constituency, if he did a couple of things in that area, and I remember Gladys Berejiklian did that sort of thing.'

Peta explained she was working hard before heading off on holiday to Italy (pictured)

'Trying to avoid the dreaded "tuck shop" arms of menopause,' she explained

That comment only made Credlin more incensed.

'You insult our intelligence to think we don't care about these things,' she said.

'Well of course they do, but people vote with the hip pocket - there is a sense amongst women,' Clennell continued before a finger-pointing Credlin interrupted that women 'do not vote with our vaginas'.

'Well, you're the one who's asking me about a gender difference, Peta, I mean, you raised it,' Clennell retorted.

'Well... I'm asking you about what can you read in it, and you're saying that he's got to have women's policies to win women,' Peta responded. 'I find that offensive.'

Credlin was the former chief of staff to Tony Abbott when he was prime minister and minister for women.
Strictly Come Dancing star Nadiya Bychkova has broken her silence on her condition after suffering a horror fall.

The Ukrainian dancer, 35, was reportedly taken to hospital on Tuesday after falling and landing on her back during rehearsals.

The star was training in north London when she was left in agony after injuring her back, with crew forced to phone an ambulance.

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Nadiya shared a picture from her hospital as she updated fans on her injury - and revealed if she would be able to dance again soon.

She wrote: 'Well where do I start? What a 24 hours! Thank you so much for all the messages, love and support. I just wanted you to know that I am ok.

'I had a fall in training yesterday and landed on my back. I was really worried for a while and I was so thankful to the Strictly family and medical team who really looked after me.

Strictly Come Dancing star Nadiya Bychkova broke her silence on Instagram on Wednesday on her condition after suffering a horror fall during rehearsals

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Nadiya shared a picture from her hospital as she updated fans on her injury - and revealed if she would be able to dance again soon

'The staff at the hospital were so kind and caring.'

Nadiya continued: 'I'm smiling in the picture but it was really scary and there were a few tears as I had to lie still for hours but I was given the all-clear after an x-ray and allowed to go home.

'I've got some physio today but I will be back on that dance floor soon and I'll be ready to shine and sparkle in the new series of the biggest show on TV.

'I can't wait for you to see it. Keep dancing!'

An insider told the Mirror of her injury: 'It looked pretty nasty and no-one was taking any chances. The Strictly crew rushed into action and she was stretchered out.

'As a precaution, following a fall during rehearsals, Nadiya was taken to hospital for checks and is receiving full support from medical and welfare teams.

'Rehearsals continue and the Strictly team are in close contact with Nadiya. Nadiya left hospital later that afternoon.'

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson told the publication: 'We were called at 12:37pm on Tuesday 12 August to reports of an incident at Regent's Park Road, NW1.

The Ukrainian dancer, 35, was reportedly taken to hospital on Tuesday after falling and landing on her back during rehearsals (Seen in 2022)

The star was training in north London when she was left in agony after injuring her back, with crew forced to phone an ambulance

'We sent an ambulance crew to the scene and treated one person before taking them to hospital.'

Daily Mail contacted Nadiya's representatives and Strictly Come Dancing for comment at the time.

It comes after trailblazing model and influencer Ellie Goldstein, Drag Race star La Voix and rugby player Chris Robshaw were confirmed as the seventh, eighth and ninth contestants for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The three celebrities confirmed their participation in an announcement shared on Wednesday's edition of The Scott Mills Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2.

Ellie is a model, actress and influencer who became the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue.

Additionally she has featured in campaigns for Gucci, Adidas and Victoria's Secret, while maintaining an ambassadorship for the learning disability charity Mencap.

She said: 'Im absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year.

'Its a show Ive loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream. I know its going to be challenging, but Im ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dancefloor. Let the Strictly journey begin!'

An insider told the Mirror: 'It looked pretty nasty and no-one was taking any chances. The Strictly crew rushed into action and she was stretchered out'

Joining Ellie on the Strictly line-up, La Voix said in a statement: 'I've performed for royalty, RuPaul and Simon Cowell, but nothing fills me with more excitement (and quite a bit of terror) than the thought of dancing in front of millions on live Saturday night TV.

'Strictly is a national institution and I can't wait to get started. All that's left to say is: good luck to my partner! Here's hoping they can help me go from La Voix into La Danse.'

Chris admitted he was stepping well out of his "comfort zone" by signing up for the show.

He commented: 'This is about as far out of my comfort zone as it gets! Im hoping to take my dad dancing to a whole new level, and my mum cant wait to drag me along to her Zumba class.

'Lets see if a rugby sidestep works in the Cha Cha Cha.'
Amanda Holden showcased her ageless appearance in a stunning Instagram snap as she continued her luxury holiday in Corfu, Greece on Wednesday.

The Britain's Got Talent judge, 54, put on a very leggy display in the Silkfred LBD as she struck a pose.

The stunner showed off her sun-kissed skin in the glowing selfie, teaming her ensemble with black high-heels.

Amanda looked sensational in the black chiffon dress with a tie neck and plunging neckline.

During her holiday, Amanda shared a sweet snap with her husband Chris Hughes, 51, to whom she has been married since 2008 after meeting in 2003.

Alongside the Instagram post, Amanda - who shares daughters Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 13, with her husband - shared the sweet caption: 'To the moon and back.8:8', with a heart and moon emoji attached.

Leggy Amanda Holden, 54, showcased her ageless appearance in a stunning Instagram snap as she continued her luxury holiday in Corfu, Greece on Wednesday

And music producer Chris proved his wife is not the only ageless one as he showcased his jet black locks and extremely smooth complexion.

It seems a number of Amanda's fans could not believe how youthful the pair look, with an onslaught of comments marvelling at their good looks.

A number of Amanda's 2.5million followers shared their thoughts, penning: 'No grey hair's what's your secret??... Beautiful...

'Although, it would appear that you both are not aging, which for the rest of us is dreadfully unfair... As my Nan would say what a handsome couple. You both look radiant... Chris hasn't aged in 20 years!'

The reference to the date appeared to be a nod to the annual occurence of the Lion's Gate Portal - an astrological sign to manifest 'heart-based desires'.

The event is detailed as: 'On August 8th, the Lion's Gate Portal aligns with the heliacal rising of the star Sirius within the constellation of Leo. The energy is ripe for manifesting our innermost, heart-based desires.'

Chris, who is a former drummer and now producer for artists including Paul McCartney, Robert Plant and Tears for Fears, is a rare feature on Amanda's social media, due to his loathing of the spotlight.

Amanda reflected on his feelings in an interview with The Times last month, saying: 'He cant stand the limelight and hates red carpets.'

During her holiday, Amanda shared a sweet snap with her husband Chris Hughes , 51, to whom she has been married since 2008 after meeting in 2003

Fans could not believe the couple's ageless looks

Alongside the Instagram post, Amanda, who shares daughters Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 13, with her husband, shared the sweet caption: 'To the moon and back.8:8', with a heart and moon emoji attached.

It seems a number of Amanda's fans could not believe how youthful the pair look, with an onslaught of comments marvelling at their good looks

Chris is Amanda's second husband, after her marriage to Family Fortunes legend Les Dennis, whom she married in 1995 when she was 22 and he was 40 before splitting in 2000 when her affair with Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey came to light

She revealed that the couple, who met in 2003, often lock horns - most recently over the purchase of their 7million property in Cobham, Surrey.

Amanda revealed Chris had 'no say', saying: 'All the decisions about the house are mine. He hates it and argues with me all the time and then says I was right.'

Chris is Amanda's second husband, after her marriage to Family Fortunes legend Les Dennis, whom she married in 1995 when she was 22 and he was 40 before splitting in 2000 when her affair with Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey came to light.

They later rekindled their romance but separated in 2002 and divorced in 2003.

She went on to marry Chris in a Christmas-themed wedding in St Margarets Church in Somerset in December 2008, where F1 driver David Coulthard was best man.
Heartbreaking new details have emerged about Danielle Spencer's final days following her death at age 60 on Monday.

Spencer  beloved for playing the quick-witted Dee Thomas on the ABC sitcom Whats Happening!! from 1976 to 1979  died at a Richmond, Virginia hospital after a long battle with breast cancer.

Her former co-star Haywood Nelson, who portrayed Dwayne Clemens Nelson, confirmed the news in an emotional statement: 'We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, Whats Happening cast member, veterinarian, animal rights proponent and healer, and cancer heroine. Our Shero. Danielle is loved. She will be missed in this form and forever embraced.'

On Wednesday, Spencers mother Cheryl Pelt told TMZ her daughter was hospitalized on August 1 after a urinary tract infection turned septic and, unable to eat solid food, had to receive nutrients and medication through tubes in her nose.

According to Pelt, Spencer was also diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs and was losing weight as her gastric cancer worsened, with her family staying by her side through her final weekend.

Pelt said her daughter was 'talking and alert' on Sunday before she suffered a 'code blue' and became unresponsive.

Heartbreaking new details have emerged about Danielle Spencers final days following her death at age 60 on Monday; (seen in 1976)

Spencer  beloved for playing the quick-witted Dee Thomas on the ABC sitcom Whats Happening!! from 1976 to 1979  died at a Richmond, Virginia hospital after a long battle with breast cancer; (seen in 2012)

Doctors revived her and transferred her to intensive care, but her heart continued to weaken.

Pelt told the outlet she died of cardiac arrest and gastric cancer.

After leaving acting, Spencer fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian, working in the Los Angeles area for more than two decades.

In 2013, illness forced her to move in with her mother in Virginia.

Pelt added that her daughter endured years of health struggles, including lasting injuries from a serious car accident that claimed the life of her stepfather, Tim Pelt.

Spencer recalled the tragedy in her 2010 memoir Through the Fire  Journal of a Child Star, writing: 'I didnt even get a chance to say goodbye to my stepfather, Daddy Tim, whom I loved and who taught me show business as a young child in New York.'

As Dee Thomas  the sharp-tongued sister of Raj Thomas (played by Ernest Thomas) and daughter of Mabel (Mabel King)  Spencer became a household name in the late 1970s.

Fans adored her mischievous streak, which she often punctuated with her signature catchphrase, 'Oooh, Im gonna tell Mama!'

On Wednesday, Spencers mother Cheryl Pelt said her daughter was hospitalized on August 1 after a urinary tract infection turned septic and, unable to eat solid food, had to receive nutrients and medication through tubes in her nose; (seen in February)

Her comedic timing and on-screen sass proved so memorable that she reprised the role nearly a decade later in the sequel series Whats Happening Now!!, which ran for three seasons from 1985 to 1988.

By then, Spencer had already experienced life-altering events off-screen  including a near-fatal 1977 car accident that would continue to affect her health for decades.

In 2004, she was diagnosed with spinal stenosis, a serious condition in which the spinal canal narrows, placing dangerous pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.

Doctors traced the cause back to the injuries she had sustained in that accident.

Surgery to correct the problem left her partially paralyzed for eight months, forcing her to undergo a grueling recovery.

Following the original Whats Happening!! cancellation, Spencer relocated with her family to the Ivory Coast before eventually returning to the United States.

Determined to pursue her childhood dream, she enrolled at Tuskegee Universitys School of Veterinary Medicine, earning her doctorate in 1993.

For the next two decades, Spencer dedicated herself to caring for animals as a veterinarian in the Los Angeles area.

Pelt said her daughter died of cardiac arrest and gastric cancer

Her acting career wound down in the early 2000s, with her final credited role as a street vendor in a 2001 episode of Days of Our Lives.

In 2014, she relocated to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to family.

That same year, Spencer faced another devastating blow when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Her health battles, however, were far from over. In 2018, she underwent emergency brain surgery to treat a bleeding hematoma, another long-term complication from her 1977 car accident.

Spencers personal life included two marriages  first to marketing manager Garry Fields from 1999 to 2013, and later to entrepreneur David L. David
Stranger Things star Dacre Montgomery has revealed why he stepped out of the spotlight after finding success in Hollywood.

The 30-year-old Perth-born actor recently spoke with The Australian, discussing his retreat from stardom.

'I think things have changed,' he explained. 'Traditional Hollywood stars existed because there was mystery... Social media has done away with that. Thats a large part of why I dropped off the map for the last five years.'

He added, 'Im not trying to compete with anyone else, Im living my truth  and hopefully being able to pay the rent while I'm doing it.'

The star first appeared on the Netflix sci-fi hit  alongside Winona Ryder, Millie Bobby Brown, and more  as Billy Hargrove in 2017's season two.

'Ive given a piece of myself to every role Ive played and thats largely why Ive taken time off,' Dacre noted. 'Lately, theres been a lot of personal reflection about what I want in my career. Im trying to gain a bit more control over where and what Im working on.'

Stranger Things star Dacre Montgomery has revealed why he stepped out of the spotlight after finding success in Hollywood; L-R Noah Schnapp, Priah Ferguson, Millie Bobby Brown, Carmen Cuba, Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Caleb McLaughlin, Joe Keery, and Dacre

The star first appeared on the Netflix sci-fi hit as Billy Hargrove in 2017's season two

Dacre will not appear in the upcoming fifth and final season of the series, as his character was killed off in season three.

Fans can next see him onscreen in the psychological thriller Went Up The Hill, which will be released on August 15.

He is also readying to star in his directorial debut, The Engagement Party, which was announced in September 2024.

In May, the lifelong performer said in a statement shared by Deadline, 'I could not be more honoured to be directing The Engagement Party, a film with an extremely important and timely message.

'Im equally thrilled to have such a wonderful team of collaborators to help bring this story to life.'

And the star said to The Australian: 'Not to be too sadomasochistic about it, but I really believe failure and rejection are the best form of learning.

'Joel Edgerton is a great example of an Australian actor who has become a director.

'His brother Nash, a great friend and mentor, is producing this film and hes generously offered to come over and do what he does with Joel when they work together.'

'Traditional Hollywood stars existed because there was mystery... Social media has done away with that. Thats a large part of why I dropped off the map for the last five years,' he shared; pictured in 2024

Dacre will not appear in the upcoming fifth and final season of the series as his character was killed off in season three, which premiered in 2019

'Ive given a piece of myself to every role Ive played and thats largely why Ive taken time off,' Dacre noted

Dacre  whose parents also work in the film industry  told The Daily Telegraph last year that he did not plan to appear in his directorial debut, although that has since changed.

He said at the time: 'I'm not looking for this to be an engine for my acting career at all.

'I want to direct, and I'm serious about directing, so I'm taking it seriously and not trying to use it as something else.'

The film is an intimate and intense drama.

'It is a four-hander, a chamber piece like a play that takes place in one location with only four people over one night,' Dacre explained, teasing at a tightly-focused narrative driven by character dynamics.
Machine Gun Kelly suspects he may have an extraterrestrial background.

The rapper, 35, revealed he has considered the possibility that he may have alien lineage thanks to several mysteries in his life, including his body's ability to quickly recover from injuries.

Adding fuel to the theory, MGK - who has just teamed up with Prince St. Pizza - says his mother suspects she may have been abducted by a UFO at one point - which may explain for the rapper's quirks.

The can of worms was opened after MGK - real name Colson Baker - admitted he didn't know his true age during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live.

'It's a weird thing, dude, I don't know if my age, I don't know if it exists,' he said.

'Wow! You have a Mariah Carey connection to your age? Which is, it's very fluid.' Host Andy Cohen asked.

Machine Gun Kelly believes there's a chance he could be part alien

'I don't know many facts about my life, so I don't know, I'm starting to just be like, like my skin, like if it rips open, it heals really quick,' he said.

'How?' an intrigued Andy asked.

'There's just things where I'm starting to be like, "Who's my dad?"' MGK continued.

'Do you think that you could be like otherworld?' Andy asked.

'I've asked my mom, I said, "Any period of time you went like missing, off Earth?... Ever a tall, slender creature?"' he said. 'She told me she felt like she got abducted at one point.'

'So there may be something to this!' Andy said.

'No, there really is!' he said. 'I'm bad at talking, I shouldn't have came on a talk show.'

MGK has had a strained relationship with his parents.

The rapper was born in Houston to missionary parents, but his mom left home when he was young for another man. The musician became estranged from his mother, but they reconnected in 2022.

MGK also endured a difficult relationship with his father for many years. His dad sadly passed away in 2020.

The speculation about his heritage wasn't all MGK discussed on the show.

MGK said the alien theory was an explanation for his body's ability to quickly recover from injuries

Host Andy Cohen was intrigued by MGK's possible UFO link

Colson with his mother, who he reconnected with in 2022 following a long estrangement

The musician also endured a difficult relationship with his father for many years. His dad sadly passed away in 2020. He is pictured with his dad as a child

The Beyond The Lights actor also had a dramatic three-word response to rumors he may have struck up a romance with Sydney Sweeney.

Earlier this year the duo were seen getting close at the star-studded opening of the Palm Tree Beach Club at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The rapper was asked about the speculation during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live - and it was clear he didn't want to discuss the Euphoria star, 27.

Viewer 'Kyle P.' submitted a question asking MGK about the matter, and the actor did not shy away from telling the curious fan exactly how he felt about the topic.

'MGK, Kyle P. wants to know if there's any truth you and Sydney Sweeney were more than just friends?' Host Andy Cohen, 57, asked, reading the viewer-submitted question.

'Kyle P., shut up dude,' MGK said, garnering laughter from the studio.

MGK had a dramatic three-word response about rumors he may be romancing Sydney Sweeney

The rapper sparked romance rumors earlier this year after they were seen chatting at the opening of the Palm Tree Beach Club at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas; Sydney pictured in Los Angeles earlier this month

MGK and Sydney have known each other since starring together in the 2021 film Downfalls High, which MGK also directed.

But in May, the pair looked extra chummy as they spoke with one another at the Las Vegas party.

At the time, MGK had recently split from Megan Fox, with the couple welcoming their first child together two months prior (MGK also has a daughter with ex Emma Cannon and Megan has three kids with ex Brian Austin Green).

In exclusive Daily Mail video, Kelly and Sweeney were seen getting close and chatting.

They were also seen sharing a fierce embrace in photos obtained by Page Six.

Not only that, but they made appearances in one another's social media accounts as they posted about the bash.

Sydney appeared in a silly selfie MGK posted that also included Patrick Schwarzenegger and hairstylist Glen Oropeza.

The selfie was one of several MGK included in a post that he captioned, 'stop what you're doing these pictures are v important.'

Kelly told a viewer to 'shut up' after they asked about the dating speculation

At the time of the Sydney-MGK sighting, the musician had recently split from Megan Fox, with the couple welcoming their first child together two months prior; pictured 2023

Sydney is back on the market after splitting from Jonathan Davino earlier this year; the pair pictured December 2024

The Euphoria star also posted the results of a snap she took with MGK and the White Lotus star.

Sydney's love life has been making headlines ever since her breakup with longtime fiance Jonathan Davino.

The actress split from Jonathan earlier this year in January, but news of the separation didn't come to light until March.
Binky Felstead turned heads in an eye-catching bikini as she enjoyed a sun-soaked beach day with her family during their summer escape to France.

The former Made in Chelsea star, 35, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share a glimpse of her sizzling holiday style.

She posed for a mirror selfie in a blue bikini top paired with a beige co-ord shirt and shorts, topped off with a chic basket Miu Miu hat.

The reality star penned on top of the snap: 'Ready for another beach day.'

Later, she ditched the shorts to reveal her toned physique in the striking two-piece, lounging on a beach bed as she soaked up the Mediterranean sunshine.

The trip comes after Binky opened up about a post-birth health issue which left her 'freaking out' and convinced she would lose her teeth.

Binky Felstead turned heads in an eye-catching bikini as she enjoyed a sun-soaked beach day with her family during their summer escape to France

The former Made In Chelsea star, 35, took to Instagram on Wednesday and wowed in a blue two-piece

She was diagnosed with gum disease recently, which was beginning to destroy her bones and needed urgent attention.

Binky is a proud mother-of-three and last gave birth in 2023 to a son named Wilder, who is now one.

Following her diagnosis, Binky decided to share her story online with her Instagram followers, to spread awareness with other mums.

Speaking to The Sun, she said: 'I was really worried about it and I actually only learnt through social media. By the way, hundreds of messages I got from other parents, other women, saying they've got the same.

'I think the old wives tale is that you lose a tooth per child. I don't know, I'm freaking out, I'm not going to have a tooth in ten years.'

She added that there's 'lots of not so glamorous things' that happen after giving birth and having children.

Binky said she has started having to do her greys, admitting that 'the good outweighs the bad'.

She said it's 'important' to have these conversations on social media to normalise it, and that the fact it is common made her feel a lot better about it.

The trip comes after Binky opened up about a post-birth health issue which left her 'freaking out' and convinced she would lose her teeth (pictured with her two of her three children and husband)

Eight years after leaving MIC, Binky says she is 'kind of getting her MOJO back'.

Binky is super relatable online with her fans, and always keeps it real.

In recent weeks, she made a 'revolting' confession that she hasn't washed her make-up brush in 10 years during a mother-daughter makeover clip.

India can be seen unleashing her creative spark as she layered on the bronzer and lined her mother's lips with a pencil.

In the clip Binky confessed: 'Do you know your godfather, Ollie Locke? This was his makeup brush from about ten years ago and I have never washed it since. How revolting is that and I still use it?'

India appeared unphased by the revelation and continued to layer on the bronzer until the TV personality persuaded her to stop.

Motherhood is a vital part of Binky's life now and along with husband Max she appears to have the perfect fairytale family.

She started dating her husband Max Fin January 2019 after they met at Soho Farmhouse and the couple later married in September 2021.
Pregnant Katherine Ryan showed off her baby bump in a cut out top and netted skirt as she lead the stars at The Real Housewives of London premiere on Wednesday.

The comedian, 42, who is expecting her fourth child with husband Bobby Kootstra, already has son Fred, four, as well as daughters Violet, 16, and Fenna, two.

Katherine looked incredible in the plunging white top which she layered under an oversized blazer as she cosied up to hunky partner Bobby on the red carpet.

The TV star elevated her frame in a pair of towering glittering heels and toted her belongings in a matching handbag.

Styling her short blonde tresses tucked behind her ears, Katherine accessorised with a chunky gold chain necklace and hoop earrings.

The couple coordinated for the evening as Bobby rocked a black blazer with a white T-shirt and white trousers as they posed for photos.

Pregnant Katherine Ryan showed off her baby bump in a cut out top and netted skirt as she lead the stars at The Real Housewives of London premiere on Wednesday

The comedian, 42, who is expecting her fourth child with husband Bobby Kootstra, looked incredible in the outfit as she cosied up to hunky partner Bobby on the red carpet

Elsewhere The Real Housewives Of London stars dressed to impress for the evening in glamorous gowns.

The reality show, which is set to hit screens next week, stars six stunning cast members Karen Loderick-Peace, Panthea Parker, Amanda Cronin, Nessie Welschinger, Juliet Mayhew and Juliet Angus.

Following in the footsteps of their counterparts in Beverly Hills, Atlanta, New York and closer afield in Cheshire, the new series has been a long time coming for fans of the franchise.

After 19 years on air and filming in more than 15 locations, the hit reality show has landed in England's swirling capital.

A set of videos dropped, inviting viewers to 'meet the wives' in clips that offer an insight into the larger-than-life characters at the heart of London's social scene.

The glamorous ladies have already teased 'volcanic' levels of drama in their new intro videos ahead of the series airing.

The Bravo series first went to Orange County, California, almost 20 years ago in 2006, and adjacent shows have since cropped up in numerous locations, including Nigeria and even Poland.

And the London iteration of the adored show will be streamed by Hayu from August 18.

The reality show, which is set to hit screens next week, stars six stunning cast members L-R Karen Loderick-Peace, Panthea Parker, Amanda Cronin, Nessie Welschinger, Juliet Mayhew and Juliet Angus

Katherine looked incredible in the plunging white top which she layered under an oversized blazer

Styling her short blonde tresses tucked behind her ears, Katherine accessorised with a chunky gold chain necklace and hoop earrings

The TV star elevated her frame in a pair of towering glittering heels and toted her belongings in a matching handbag

Amanda Cronin wowed in a daring pink one shoulder dress which boasted a thigh high split

Amanda toted a dazzling pink Real Housewives Of London clutch as she arrived at the event

Karen Loderick-Peace stunned in a white strapless draping pearl gown which showed off her amazing figure

Juliet Angus beamed as she posed with her glamorous daughter Georgina

Juliet Mayhe put on a leggy display in a white semi-sheer glittering number which featured a daring waist high split

Model Munroe Bergdorf dressed to impress in a black long sleeved dress

Panthea Parker turned heads in a purple sequin backless gown which cascaded behind her

Nessie Welschinger showed off her amazing figure as she flashed her underwear in a white lace sheer dress

RuPaul's Drag Race UK's Cheryl Hole beamed on the red carpet in a silver metallic minidress

TV host Dean McCarthy looked dapper in a sequin black blazer

It promises champagne-fuelled catfights and caviar aplenty in the city's wealthiest neighbourhoods.

'I think the Housewives breed takes a special kind of person,' upcoming London housewife Juliet Angus told RadioTimes.

'Every one of these girls has that quality - no-holds-barred, very honest and straightforward and fun and wild, and you don't know what you're going to get.'

The ladies told the outlet that viewers should expect the 'unexpected,' likening the dramatic scenes to a 'volcano'.
Jamie Lynn Spears' daughter Maddie broke her silence, for the first time, on the near-death experience that put her in a coma back in 2017.

'I did have an accident though,' the 17-year-old Oak Forest Academy senior said on her YouTube Channel Tuesday.

'I was in a coma, and I came back to life, and I'm very blessed. So yeah, I've just been very accident-prone. I swear my parents are amazing and they did not do anything to me!'

Little Maddie was only eight in 2017 when she was airlifted to Children's Hospital New Orleans and made a full recovery after spending five days convalescing there from her injuries.

Each year on February 5, the 34-year-old former child star celebrates the softball player's 'miracle anniversary' of her accident flipping an ATV and nearly drowning in their Louisiana pond.

TMZ later revealed the manufacturers of the Polaris RZR 170 restricted anyone under age 10 from operating the ATV, so it was technically illegal for Jamie Lynn to have even gifted the vehicle to Maddie on her seventh birthday.

Jamie Lynn Spears' (R, pictured last Frriday) daughter Maddie (L) broke her silence, for the first time, on the near-death experience that put her in a coma back in 2017

On Wednesday, Spears gave a very public shout-out to her daughter, who plans on attending the University of Southern Mississippi next year.

'I'm so proud of this kid, she never lets anything or anyone sit her down, and sharing her journey through it all hopefully inspires others to never stop going hard for what they want out of life,' the Sweet Magnolias actress - who boasts 4.1M social media followers - gushed.

'You can work so hard, and do everything right, yet still face adversity, no matter what path you're on in life. You can't control everything that happens to you, but you can decide how you react to what happens to you.

'I know being a resilient person is one of the best qualities a human can have, but it's only earned by having no other choice but to be resilient. Gotta trust God's plan.'

Maddie has rejected her biological father Casey Aldridge's last name in favor of her stepfather Jamie Watson's last name.

Jamie Lynn and the Fluker Transportation LLC owner celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary on March 14, and they're also parents of seven-year-old daughter Ivey.

Spears made headlines when she discovered she was pregnant, age 16, with Maddie while in a gas station bathroom with her ex-fiance Casey Aldridge, who was 18 at the time.

Nickelodeon canceled the Mississippi-born, Louisiana-based blonde's teen sitcom Zoey 101 (which aired from 2005 to 2008) over outrage about her being a bad influence to their young, impressionable viewers.

Last April, Netflix renewed Jamie Lynn's romantic drama series Sweet Magnolias for a fifth season, so she will be back as nurse Noreen Fitzgibbons.

The 17-year-old Oak Forest Academy senior said on YouTube Tuesday: 'I did have an accident though. I was in a coma, and I came back to life, and I'm very blessed. So yeah, I've just been very accident-prone. I swear my parents are amazing and they did not do anything to me!'

Little Maddie was only eight in 2017 when she was airlifted to Children's Hospital New Orleans and made a full recovery after spending five days convalescing there from her injuries

Each year on February 5, the 34-year-old former child star celebrates the softball player's 'miracle anniversary' of her accident flipping an ATV and nearly drowning in their Louisiana pond

On Wednesday, Jamie Lynn gave a very public shout-out to Maddie, who plans on attending the University of Southern Mississippi next year

Spears gushed: 'I'm so proud of this kid, she never lets anything or anyone sit her down, and sharing her journey through it all hopefully inspires others to never stop going hard for what they want out of life' (pictured June 14)

Maddie has rejected her biological father Casey Aldridge's last name in favor of her stepfather Jamie Watson's last name (R, also pictured with seven-year-old daughter Ivey)

Last April, Netflix renewed Jamie Lynn's romantic drama series Sweet Magnolias for a fifth season - so the Mississippi-born, Louisiana-based blonde will be back as nurse Noreen Fitzgibbons

But Jamie Lynn is best known as the nepo sister of Grammy winner Britney Spears (L, pictured in 2017), who called her 'scum' for publishing her 2022 memoir Things I Should Have Said

The South Carolina-set romantic drama series, developed by Sheryl J. Anderson, is based on the Sweet Magnolias novels by Sherryl Woods.

But Spears is best known as the nepo sister of Grammy winner Britney Spears, who called her 'scum' for publishing her 2022 memoir Things I Should Have Said.

Jamie Lynn claimed she knew 'very little' about the 43-year-old pop star's 13-year conservatorship, despite petitioning the court as her SJB Revocable trustee to move money into blocked accounts with Lou Taylor's investment firm Stonebridge in 2020.

Spears' GMA interview was reportedly filmed at the lavish home of Britney's former manager Robin Greenhill, who was accused of monitoring all of her communications through a secret shared iCloud account.
Ford is axing one of its best-selling models after 26 years.

The Blue Oval automaker will stop production of the Escape crossover SUV, with final models rolling off dealership lots in 2026.

The Escape  initially a $20,000 SUV with boxy shape and a skirt of plastic cladding  launched in 2000 and became an instant hit.

'The Escape pioneered the booming compact crossover segment that has commandeered the market today,' Robby DeGraff, from automotive analysts AutoPacific, told the Daily Mail.

Through the years, design refreshes sanded down the boxy shape and replaced the ruggedness with more refined design..

The latest versions come with either a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, a 2-liter EcoBoost, a 2.5-liter hybrid, or a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid.

But the vehicle  and its luxury twin, the Lincoln Corsair  is going the way of the dodo bird to clear a spot on the carmaker's Louisville, Kentucky production floor for Ford's next-generation EV.

Yesterday, Ford invoked its iconic Model T - the company's first mass-market car - while unveiling a new battery technology that runs on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry.

The current Escape received powertrain inspiration from one of four trims, including two gas and two hybrid engines

Ford says the new battery will power multiple cars, including a yet-to-be-named four-door pickup truck with a $30,000 base price.

The company believes the mid-size truck will have Mustang-beating 0- to 60 mph speed and a load of interior cargo space.

'Ford clearing house of aging gas vehicles for these new entry-level, affordable EVs atop their much simpler and modern EV platform is an interesting move,' DeGraff said.

'The Escape still sells well and its volumes will likely always surpass a new EV's.'

That same platform is expected to power a lineup of other Ford vehicles, including a three-row SUV, a larger pickup, and a crossover.

Right now, Ford only produces two consumer EVs: the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning.

Both cars use lithium ion chemistries to get electric power. Most of the critical minerals inside those batteries come from mines in China.

In June, Ford had to pause some US-based factory production as Chinese officials stopped selling necessary magnets to American automakers.

Ford has two consumer EVs, including the full-size F-150 Lightning pickup

Ford's Escape has been a popular best-seller - but the company is nixing the vehicle when the crossover segment continues to boom

Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, revealed the company's new EV platform - he called it a 'Model T moment'

Ford's latest battery tech is cheaper to build, improves fire safety, has a longer lifespan, and offers more environmentally-friendly mining practices.

But, most importantly, many of the required parts will have American supplies.

GM is also developing similar battery technologies.

The new EV pickup truck, which might revive the Ranchero nameplate from the 50s through 70s, is expected to reach driveways in 2027.

But the decision to axe the Escape is a bit of a surprise, given the state of the current American auto customer.

Drivers across the US cannot quit the crossover segment. Last year, the country's best-selling non-pickup was Toyota's RAV4, a direct competitor to the Escape.

And Ford drivers were choosing the Escape, with the SUV getting some impressive sales numbers.

In the last quarter, Ford reported selling 45,232 units of the vehicle, a 10.8 percent jump from the same period last year.

Ford's remaining crossover SUV, the Bronco Sport, sold 39,075 units in the US during the same quarter.

The company didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
A tough-looking truck has been unintentionally winking at pedestrians.

Nissan is recalling 13,719 Frontiers, its midsize pickup, because of faulty headlights.

A software error in the 2025 model accidentally dims the two front lights. Federal regulations require new vehicles to run the lamps, even during the daytime.

The automaker told Daily Mail that the lights accidentally lower when the automatic start-stop feature takes over at a red light or in traffic.

Nissan warns that the flickering headlights 'may cause confusion to other vehicles or pedestrians, increasing the risk of a crash.'

Customers must bring their vehicle back to the dealership for a free computer update.

Impacted owners will receive a mailed notice in mid-September. Nissan confirmed the recall in a statement to the Daily Mail, saying some owners experienced a 'brief change in headlight intensity.'

Nissan's Frontier sales have lagged this year, with the company reporting a 23 percent decline compared to last year.

Nissan has recalled its 2025 mid-sive Frontier pickup over a computer glitch in the headlights

The truck is not alone: Nissan has been cash-strapped since November, with executives worrying if the brand will be able to stay alive.

Earlier this year, Nissan held talks with Honda on a potential merger, but negotiations didn't end in a deal.

Moody's, a powerful credit agency, downgraded Nissan's debt to 'junk' status, signalling to investors that lending money to Nissan is now considered a very risky bet.

Makoto Uchida, the company's CEO at the time, stepped down after the failed talks. Ivan Espinosa was named the replacement.

Recall fall

So far, Nissan has issued six recalls in 2025.

The largest bulletin reached the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in June - impacting 443,899 cars, including the company's best-selling Rogue SUV and Altima sedan.

The problem centered on a potential bearing defect that could lead to engine failure. If that happens while driving, the vehicle can lose power, increasing the risk of a crash.

The truck's headlights had been unintentionally dimming when the car's stop-start feature was engaged

Nissan switched CEOs in April, with Ivan Espinosa taking over the company's top position after financial strain

Carmakers have been turning to a new recall approach to avoid customer headaches and parts delays at dealerships

However, drivers typically receive audible and visual warnings before a failure occurs.

To remedy the problem, Nissan said it would completely replace the engine on impacted cars.

It's been a tough year for vehicle recalls: so far, the top 13 major automakers have issued 228 recalls.

And Ford has led the pack. By a lot.

By early August, the iconic automaker has already issued 96 safety bulletins since January, the most any car company has ever issued in an entire year.

But there is a dramatic twist in how car companies are fixing vehicles: many are turning to over-the-air computer updates for patches.

Instead of frustrating customers with backlogged parts and trips to the dealerships, the biggest US automakers, including Ford, have updated vehicle computers while cars are parked via data clouds.

The Detroit automaker previously told the Daily Mail that nearly half of its recalls were fixed with computer updates.
OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE:OUT  Free Report)  Equities researchers at Barrington Research lifted their Q3 2025 EPS estimates for OUTFRONT Media in a note issued to investors on Thursday, August 7th. Barrington Research analyst P. Sholl now forecasts that the financial services provider will post earnings per share of $0.48 for the quarter, up from their previous estimate of $0.41. Barrington Research has a Outperform rating and a $21.00 price target on the stock. The consensus estimate for OUTFRONT Medias current full-year earnings is $1.59 per share. Barrington Research also issued estimates for OUTFRONT Medias Q4 2025 earnings at $0.69 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $1.71 EPS.

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OUTFRONT Media (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 5th. The financial services provider reported $0.51 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.48 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $460.20 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $463.16 million. OUTFRONT Media had a net margin of 5.99% and a return on equity of 18.07%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 3.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.50 earnings per share.

Several other equities analysts have also weighed in on the stock. Wall Street Zen raised shares of OUTFRONT Media from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. Citigroup restated a buy rating and issued a $19.00 price objective (up from $17.00) on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Thursday, May 29th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on shares of OUTFRONT Media from $20.00 to $19.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, May 21st. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of OUTFRONT Media from $17.00 to $19.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Sunday, July 20th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $19.00.

Read Our Latest Report on OUT

OUTFRONT Media Price Performance

Shares of OUT opened at $17.38 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $2.91 billion, a PE ratio of 29.72, a PEG ratio of 1.00 and a beta of 1.89. The firms 50 day moving average price is $17.00 and its 200 day moving average price is $16.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.60, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a current ratio of 0.61. OUTFRONT Media has a twelve month low of $12.95 and a twelve month high of $19.50.

OUTFRONT Media Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Investors of record on Friday, September 5th will be given a dividend of $0.30 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 5th. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.9%. OUTFRONT Medias payout ratio is 206.90%.

Insider Transactions at OUTFRONT Media

In related news, EVP Richard H. Sauer sold 29,891 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, June 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $15.79, for a total transaction of $471,978.89. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 90,945 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,436,021.55. The trade was a 24.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.47% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On OUTFRONT Media

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. SVB Wealth LLC bought a new position in OUTFRONT Media during the first quarter worth $28,000. Sterling Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in OUTFRONT Media by 672.5% in the 4th quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC now owns 2,897 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $51,000 after buying an additional 2,522 shares during the period. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd increased its holdings in OUTFRONT Media by 158.2% in the 1st quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 3,331 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $54,000 after buying an additional 2,041 shares during the period. Rossby Financial LCC bought a new stake in OUTFRONT Media in the 1st quarter valued at $74,000. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in OUTFRONT Media in the 4th quarter valued at $113,000.

OUTFRONT Media Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

OUTFRONT Media, Inc leases advertising space on out-of-home advertising structures and sites. Its inventory consists of billboard displays, which are primarily located on the most heavily traveled highways & roadways, and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the U.S.

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Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (NYSE:RYAM  Free Report)  Equities research analysts at Sidoti Csr lowered their Q3 2025 EPS estimates for shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials in a report issued on Thursday, August 7th. Sidoti Csr analyst D. Harriman now expects that the basic materials company will post earnings per share of ($0.07) for the quarter, down from their prior forecast of $0.08. The consensus estimate for Rayonier Advanced Materials current full-year earnings is ($0.08) per share. Sidoti Csr also issued estimates for Rayonier Advanced Materials Q4 2025 earnings at ($0.09) EPS, FY2025 earnings at ($1.08) EPS, Q1 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS, Q2 2026 earnings at ($0.01) EPS and FY2026 earnings at $0.14 EPS.

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Rayonier Advanced Materials (NYSE:RYAM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 5th. The basic materials company reported ($0.43) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.20) by ($0.23). Rayonier Advanced Materials had a negative return on equity of 12.11% and a negative net margin of 29.23%. The business had revenue of $340.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $387.07 million.

Other analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada lowered their target price on shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials from $9.00 to $6.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, May 8th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, May 15th.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on RYAM

Rayonier Advanced Materials Stock Up 6.6%

RYAM stock opened at $4.76 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $319.19 million, a P/E ratio of -0.71 and a beta of 2.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.10, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.45. Rayonier Advanced Materials has a one year low of $3.35 and a one year high of $10.28. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $4.07 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $5.02.

Insider Buying and Selling at Rayonier Advanced Materials

In related news, CEO Delyle W. Bloomquist purchased 63,291 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, May 16th. The shares were bought at an average price of $3.95 per share, for a total transaction of $249,999.45. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer directly owned 486,024 shares in the company, valued at $1,919,794.80. This trade represents a 14.97% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. 4.41% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Rayonier Advanced Materials

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Millennium Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials by 127.0% during the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 846,678 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $6,985,000 after acquiring an additional 473,723 shares in the last quarter. New York State Teachers Retirement System acquired a new position in shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials during the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Deutsche Bank AG lifted its holdings in shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials by 18.2% during the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 123,297 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,017,000 after acquiring an additional 18,954 shares in the last quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. lifted its holdings in shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials by 13.2% during the 1st quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 259,475 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,492,000 after acquiring an additional 30,282 shares in the last quarter. Finally, AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Rayonier Advanced Materials by 64.4% in the 4th quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 507,373 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $4,186,000 after buying an additional 198,709 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.64% of the companys stock.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc manufactures and sells cellulose specialty products in the United States, China, Latin America, Canada, Japan, Europe, Latin America, other Asian countries, and internationally. It operates through High Purity Cellulose, Paperboard, and High-Yield Pulp segments. The companys products include cellulose specialties, which are natural polymers that are used as raw materials to manufacture a range of consumer-oriented products, such as liquid crystal displays, impact-resistant plastics, thickeners for food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cigarette filters, high-tenacity rayon yarn for tires and industrial hoses, food casings, paints, and lacquers.

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Aigen Investment Management LP lifted its stake in Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE:RGR  Free Report) by 6.6% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 12,647 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 788 shares during the quarter. Aigen Investment Management LPs holdings in Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. were worth $497,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its position in shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. by 748.1% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 653 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 576 shares during the period. Aurora Private Wealth Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. in the 1st quarter worth about $1,570,000. Millennium Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. by 19.4% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 98,102 shares of the companys stock worth $3,470,000 after purchasing an additional 15,928 shares during the period. D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. lifted its position in shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. by 40.9% in the 4th quarter. D. E. Shaw & Co. Inc. now owns 53,048 shares of the companys stock worth $1,876,000 after purchasing an additional 15,386 shares during the period. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its position in shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. by 119.4% in the 4th quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 177,660 shares of the companys stock worth $6,284,000 after purchasing an additional 96,703 shares during the period. 64.00% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. Price Performance

Shares of NYSE RGR opened at $33.87 on Wednesday. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. has a 1 year low of $31.64 and a 1 year high of $42.76. The stock has a market cap of $547.32 million, a P/E ratio of 109.25 and a beta of 0.07. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $35.61 and a 200 day moving average of $37.03.

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. Cuts Dividend

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. ( NYSE:RGR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 30th. The company reported $0.41 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.38 by $0.03. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. had a net margin of 1.07% and a return on equity of 9.53%. The company had revenue of $132.49 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $121.99 million. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.47 EPS. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.s revenue was up 1.3% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts expect that Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. will post 2.31 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 29th. Investors of record on Friday, August 15th will be given a dividend of $0.16 per share. This represents a $0.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 232.26%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, June 29th.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.

Insider Transactions at Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.

In related news, Director Christopher John Killoy sold 8,583 shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $37.01, for a total transaction of $317,656.83. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 41,559 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,538,098.59. This trade represents a 17.12% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, VP Sarah F. Colbert sold 8,000 shares of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $35.80, for a total transaction of $286,400.00. Following the transaction, the vice president directly owned 564 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,191.20. This trade represents a 93.41% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 4.60% of the companys stock.

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. Profile

(Free Report)

Sturm, Ruger & Co, Inc engages in the business of designing, manufacturing, and selling firearms to domestic customers. It operates through the Firearms and Castings segments. The Firearms segment focuses on manufacturing and selling rifles, pistols, and revolvers principally to a number of federally licensed, independent wholesale distributors.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RGR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE:RGR  Free Report).

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NFP Retirement Inc. trimmed its holdings in shares of Aon plc (NYSE:AON  Free Report) by 3.1% during the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 11,473 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 365 shares during the period. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in AON were worth $4,579,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Portside Wealth Group LLC raised its position in shares of AON by 530.6% during the 1st quarter. Portside Wealth Group LLC now owns 11,055 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,412,000 after purchasing an additional 9,302 shares during the period. WCM Investment Management LLC increased its position in AON by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 2,051,816 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $809,544,000 after acquiring an additional 6,038 shares during the period. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd increased its position in AON by 5.6% in the 1st quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 28,022 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $11,183,000 after acquiring an additional 1,489 shares during the period. Catalyst Capital Advisors LLC increased its position in AON by 425.3% in the 1st quarter. Catalyst Capital Advisors LLC now owns 1,907 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $761,000 after acquiring an additional 1,544 shares during the period. Finally, Ninety One North America Inc. increased its position in AON by 64.4% in the 1st quarter. Ninety One North America Inc. now owns 7,483 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,986,000 after acquiring an additional 2,932 shares during the period. 86.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms recently commented on AON. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and issued a $438.00 target price (up from $436.00) on shares of AON in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded AON from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price target for the company from $400.00 to $426.00 in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Barclays reiterated an overweight rating and set a $420.00 price target (up from $401.00) on shares of AON in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered their price target on AON from $414.00 to $409.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Evercore ISI lifted their price target on AON from $411.00 to $421.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, July 28th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $411.27.

AON Stock Performance

Shares of AON stock opened at $364.17 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $78.53 billion, a PE ratio of 30.50, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 0.83. Aon plc has a 12 month low of $323.73 and a 12 month high of $412.97. The company has a quick ratio of 1.52, a current ratio of 1.52 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $357.60 and a 200-day simple moving average of $370.68.

AON (NYSE:AON  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 25th. The financial services provider reported $3.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.40 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $4.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.16 billion. AON had a return on equity of 50.91% and a net margin of 15.54%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 10.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.93 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Aon plc will post 17.21 EPS for the current fiscal year.

AON Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 1st will be given a $0.745 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 1st. This represents a $2.98 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.8%. AONs payout ratio is currently 24.96%.

About AON

(Free Report)

Aon Plc engages in the provision of risk, health, and wealth solutions. It focuses on risk capital including claim management, reinsurance, risk analysis, management, retention, and transfer; and human capital involving analytics, health and benefits, investments, pensions and retirement, talent and rewards, and workplace wellbeing.

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Benjamin Edwards Inc. reduced its holdings in Entergy Corporation (NYSE:ETR  Free Report) by 73.3% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 19,575 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 53,657 shares during the period. Benjamin Edwards Inc.s holdings in Entergy were worth $1,674,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Migdal Insurance & Financial Holdings Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Entergy during the first quarter worth $28,000. Grove Bank & Trust increased its position in Entergy by 188.5% in the 1st quarter. Grove Bank & Trust now owns 352 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 230 shares during the last quarter. Glen Eagle Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Entergy by 100.0% during the 4th quarter. Glen Eagle Advisors LLC now owns 360 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 180 shares in the last quarter. Wayfinding Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Entergy during the 1st quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Fourth Dimension Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of Entergy in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $30,000. 88.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently weighed in on ETR. KeyCorp reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $96.00 price objective (up previously from $88.00) on shares of Entergy in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on shares of Entergy from $89.00 to $93.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Raymond James Financial started coverage on shares of Entergy in a research note on Friday, June 13th. They issued a market perform rating for the company. Mizuho set a $97.00 target price on shares of Entergy and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on Entergy from $100.00 to $102.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $88.07.

Entergy Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:ETR opened at $90.86 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $40.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.63, a PEG ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.57. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $84.66 and a 200 day moving average price of $83.61. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73. Entergy Corporation has a twelve month low of $58.17 and a twelve month high of $92.40.

Entergy (NYSE:ETR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 30th. The utilities provider reported $1.05 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.91 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $3.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.11 billion. Entergy had a return on equity of 11.52% and a net margin of 14.35%. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.92 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Entergy Corporation will post 3.88 earnings per share for the current year.

Entergy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, August 13th will be paid a $0.60 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, August 13th. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. Entergys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 59.85%.

Insider Activity

In other news, insider Haley Fisackerly sold 4,463 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.50, for a total value of $403,901.50. Following the sale, the insider owned 3,318 shares in the company, valued at approximately $300,279. This trade represents a 57.36% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.47% of the companys stock.

Entergy Company Profile

(Free Report)

Entergy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the production and retail distribution of electricity in the United States. It generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power in portions of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, including the City of New Orleans; and distributes natural gas.

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Boston Partners boosted its stake in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Free Report) by 6.2% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 8,953,009 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 523,107 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company comprises 0.8% of Boston Partners investment portfolio, making the stock its 28th largest position. Boston Partners owned 0.28% of Wells Fargo & Company worth $640,616,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. BNP Paribas purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company in the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Motco grew its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 397.6% in the 1st quarter. Motco now owns 408 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $29,000 after buying an additional 326 shares during the last quarter. Accent Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the 1st quarter worth approximately $29,000. Parvin Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the 4th quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Stone House Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the 1st quarter worth approximately $34,000. 75.90% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wells Fargo & Company Trading Up 2.4%

Wells Fargo & Company stock opened at $79.45 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $79.06 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $74.97. Wells Fargo & Company has a 12 month low of $50.22 and a 12 month high of $84.83. The company has a market capitalization of $254.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.20.

Wells Fargo & Company ( NYSE:WFC Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, July 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.41 by $0.13. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 12.29% and a net margin of 16.82%. The business had revenue of $20.82 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.83 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.33 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts predict that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wells Fargo & Company declared that its board has authorized a stock buyback program on Tuesday, April 29th that allows the company to repurchase $40.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization allows the financial services provider to buy up to 17.2% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are usually a sign that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued.

Wells Fargo & Company Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 8th will be paid a $0.45 dividend. This is an increase from Wells Fargo & Companys previous quarterly dividend of $0.40. This represents a $1.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.3%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 8th. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 30.82%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on WFC. Evercore ISI reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Cowen reiterated a hold rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. Dbs Bank upgraded Wells Fargo & Company from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. The Goldman Sachs Group cut their price objective on Wells Fargo & Company from $92.00 to $91.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on Wells Fargo & Company from $77.00 to $87.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $80.39.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Wells Fargo & Company

Wells Fargo & Company 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.

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Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd increased its holdings in Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:FCX  Free Report) by 35.2% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 17,129 shares of the natural resource companys stock after purchasing an additional 4,458 shares during the quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltds holdings in Freeport-McMoRan were worth $649,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. National Pension Service boosted its holdings in Freeport-McMoRan by 12.0% in the first quarter. National Pension Service now owns 3,646,709 shares of the natural resource companys stock valued at $138,064,000 after acquiring an additional 390,662 shares in the last quarter. Regal Partners Ltd lifted its position in shares of Freeport-McMoRan by 13.2% in the 1st quarter. Regal Partners Ltd now owns 2,264,195 shares of the natural resource companys stock worth $85,722,000 after purchasing an additional 264,877 shares during the period. Dagco Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan during the 1st quarter valued at about $37,000. Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Freeport-McMoRan by 16.6% during the 1st quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 3,141,547 shares of the natural resource companys stock valued at $118,940,000 after purchasing an additional 446,530 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in Freeport-McMoRan by 10.0% in the first quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 449,370 shares of the natural resource companys stock worth $17,053,000 after buying an additional 41,010 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.77% of the companys stock.

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Freeport-McMoRan Stock Performance

Shares of FCX stock opened at $42.10 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30, a quick ratio of 1.21 and a current ratio of 2.47. The firm has a market cap of $60.50 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.89, a P/E/G ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.63. The firms 50 day moving average price is $42.94 and its 200-day moving average price is $39.11. Freeport-McMoRan Inc. has a one year low of $27.66 and a one year high of $52.61.

Freeport-McMoRan Dividend Announcement

Freeport-McMoRan ( NYSE:FCX Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 23rd. The natural resource company reported $0.54 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.45 by $0.09. Freeport-McMoRan had a net margin of 7.45% and a return on equity of 7.37%. The business had revenue of $7.58 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.85 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.46 EPS. The companys revenue was up 14.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Freeport-McMoRan Inc. will post 1.68 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 1st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, July 15th were paid a dividend of $0.15 per share. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.4%. Freeport-McMoRans dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 22.73%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have recently commented on FCX shares. Wolfe Research upgraded Freeport-McMoRan from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $39.00 target price for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Stifel Nicolaus started coverage on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $56.00 price target for the company. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Freeport-McMoRan from $52.00 to $54.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Bank of America reiterated a neutral rating and set a $56.00 target price on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reiterated a buy rating and set a $50.00 price objective (up previously from $48.00) on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Freeport-McMoRan presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $51.00.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on FCX

Insider Activity

In related news, CAO Ellie L. Mikes sold 8,584 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $40.02, for a total value of $343,531.68. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer owned 48,333 shares in the company, valued at $1,934,286.66. This trade represents a 15.08% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Company insiders own 0.79% of the companys stock.

Freeport-McMoRan Company Profile

(Free Report)

Freeport-McMoRan Inc engages in the mining of mineral properties in North America, South America, and Indonesia. It primarily explores for copper, gold, molybdenum, silver, and other metals. The company's assets include the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia; Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita, and Miami in Arizona; Chino and Tyrone in New Mexico; and Henderson and Climax in Colorado, North America, as well as Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile.

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Callan Family Office LLC lowered its position in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Free Report) by 9.0% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 70,434 shares of the banks stock after selling 6,967 shares during the quarter. Callan Family Office LLCs holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft were worth $1,678,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 68.8% in the first quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 23,763 shares of the banks stock valued at $567,000 after acquiring an additional 9,684 shares during the last quarter. Jefferies Financial Group Inc. bought a new stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,308,000. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 6.3% in the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 15,089 shares of the banks stock valued at $360,000 after acquiring an additional 900 shares during the last quarter. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. boosted its holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 45.3% in the first quarter. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. now owns 94,531 shares of the banks stock valued at $2,253,000 after acquiring an additional 29,451 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC boosted its holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 26.0% in the first quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 65,901 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,570,000 after acquiring an additional 13,615 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 27.90% of the companys stock.

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Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:DB opened at $36.29 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.39. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a twelve month low of $14.42 and a twelve month high of $36.46. The stocks 50 day moving average is $30.45 and its 200-day moving average is $26.01. The firm has a market capitalization of $72.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.80, a PEG ratio of 0.44 and a beta of 1.02.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft ( NYSE:DB Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, July 24th. The bank reported $0.54 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.78 by ($0.24). Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft had a return on equity of 6.01% and a net margin of 7.67%. The firm had revenue of $9.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.80 billion. Sell-side analysts forecast that Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft will post 2.93 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several brokerages recently commented on DB. Wall Street Zen cut Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 26th. Bank of America initiated coverage on Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a report on Tuesday, June 10th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating on shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a report on Monday, July 28th. Citigroup restated a sell rating on shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a report on Friday, July 25th. Finally, Cfra Research upgraded Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on DB

About Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft

(Free Report)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, a stock corporation, provides corporate and investment banking, and asset management products and services to private individuals, corporate entities, and institutional clients in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific.

Further Reading

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Community Bank of Raymore lowered its stake in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 4.0% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 3,010 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 125 shares during the period. Community Bank of Raymores holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $399,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter valued at about $1,658,180,000. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 383.1% in the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,358,698 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $945,453,000 after acquiring an additional 6,628,310 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 15,420.4% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 5,102,648 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $676,866,000 after acquiring an additional 5,069,771 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 29.2% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 15,985,797 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $2,120,516,000 after acquiring an additional 3,616,471 shares during the period. Finally, Capital International Investors lifted its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 3.4% in the 4th quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 67,972,953 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $7,688,160,000 after acquiring an additional 2,229,026 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 75.18% of the companys stock.

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Abbott Laboratories Stock Down 0.3%

Shares of NYSE:ABT opened at $130.92 on Wednesday. Abbott Laboratories has a one year low of $107.60 and a one year high of $141.23. The company has a 50 day moving average of $131.60 and a 200-day moving average of $131.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 1.82 and a quick ratio of 1.30. The stock has a market cap of $227.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.41, a P/E/G ratio of 2.49 and a beta of 0.70.

Abbott Laboratories Announces Dividend

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.26 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $1.26. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 32.43% and a return on equity of 18.32%. The company had revenue of $11.14 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.01 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.14 EPS. Abbott Laboratoriess revenue was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, July 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.59 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, July 15th. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.8%. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.57%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, CFO Philip P. Boudreau sold 5,550 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $134.55, for a total transaction of $746,752.50. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 51,003 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,862,453.65. This trade represents a 9.81% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 0.46% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts recently commented on ABT shares. Raymond James Financial dropped their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $142.00 to $141.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, July 18th. William Blair upgraded shares of Abbott Laboratories to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Leerink Partnrs upgraded shares of Abbott Laboratories to a hold rating in a report on Monday, June 16th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $147.00 to $142.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, July 18th. Finally, Piper Sandler restated an overweight rating and set a $145.00 price target (up previously from $133.00) on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a report on Thursday, April 17th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Abbott Laboratories currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $144.47.

View Our Latest Stock Report on ABT

Abbott Laboratories Company Profile

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon.

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Neuberger Berman Group LLC cut its stake in shares of Fair Isaac Corporation (NYSE:FICO  Free Report) by 12.8% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 162,387 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 23,918 shares during the quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC owned about 0.67% of Fair Isaac worth $299,468,000 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 stock. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Fair Isaac by 5.5% during the 1st quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 846 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,560,000 after purchasing an additional 44 shares during the period. YCG LLC boosted its position in shares of Fair Isaac by 60.7% in the 1st quarter. YCG LLC now owns 26,116 shares of the technology companys stock worth $48,162,000 after buying an additional 9,865 shares in the last quarter. National Pension Service boosted its position in shares of Fair Isaac by 7.9% in the 1st quarter. National Pension Service now owns 85,479 shares of the technology companys stock worth $157,637,000 after buying an additional 6,231 shares in the last quarter. LGT Group Foundation purchased a new stake in shares of Fair Isaac in the 1st quarter worth about $6,195,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Fair Isaac by 32.0% in the 1st quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 25,549 shares of the technology companys stock worth $47,107,000 after buying an additional 6,191 shares in the last quarter. 85.75% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

FICO has been the topic of several recent research reports. Needham & Company LLC decreased their price objective on shares of Fair Isaac from $2,575.00 to $1,950.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. Baird R W upgraded shares of Fair Isaac from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 28th. Oppenheimer decreased their price objective on shares of Fair Isaac from $2,300.00 to $1,953.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Raymond James Financial decreased their price objective on shares of Fair Isaac from $2,230.00 to $1,800.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group restated a buy rating on shares of Fair Isaac in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Fair Isaac presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $2,163.14.

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO William J. Lansing sold 6,010 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, June 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,767.82, for a total transaction of $10,624,598.20. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 42,138 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $74,492,399.16. This represents a 12.48% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Steven P. Weber sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,738.25, for a total transaction of $1,738,250.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 1,862 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,236,621.50. This trade represents a 34.94% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 13,021 shares of company stock worth $22,247,892. Insiders own 3.46% of the companys stock.

Fair Isaac Price Performance

Shares of FICO stock opened at $1,320.02 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $31.69 billion, a P/E ratio of 51.62, a PEG ratio of 2.55 and a beta of 1.28. Fair Isaac Corporation has a 1-year low of $1,301.01 and a 1-year high of $2,402.51. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $1,640.95 and its 200-day simple moving average is $1,784.82.

Fair Isaac (NYSE:FICO  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 30th. The technology company reported $8.57 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $7.75 by $0.82. The business had revenue of $536.42 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $520.40 million. Fair Isaac had a net margin of 32.80% and a negative return on equity of 48.88%. The companys revenue was up 19.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $6.25 EPS. Analysts expect that Fair Isaac Corporation will post 24.15 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Fair Isaac announced that its board has initiated a share buyback program on Thursday, June 19th that allows the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the technology company to buy up to 2.3% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are often an indication that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

Fair Isaac Company Profile

(Free Report)

Fair Isaac Corporation develops analytic, software, and digital decisioning technologies and services that enable businesses to automate, enhance, and connect decisions in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates in two segments, Scores and Software. The Software segment provides pre-configured analytic and decision management solution designed for various business needs or processes, such as account origination, customer management, customer engagement, fraud detection, financial crimes compliance, and marketing, as well as associated professional services.

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Financial Engines Advisors L.L.C. lowered its position in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 18.5% during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 11,804 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 2,679 shares during the quarter. Financial Engines Advisors L.L.C.s holdings in Pfizer were worth $299,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Bessemer Group Inc. boosted its position in Pfizer by 11.1% during the first quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 132,478 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,358,000 after acquiring an additional 13,228 shares during the last quarter. Capital Advisors Inc. OK boosted its position in Pfizer by 1.2% during the first quarter. Capital Advisors Inc. OK now owns 1,413,472 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $35,817,000 after acquiring an additional 17,032 shares during the last quarter. CHURCHILL MANAGEMENT Corp bought a new stake in Pfizer during the first quarter valued at $8,283,000. Alta Advisers Ltd grew its holdings in Pfizer by 69.6% in the first quarter. Alta Advisers Ltd now owns 31,912 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $809,000 after purchasing an additional 13,100 shares during the period. Finally, WCM Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in Pfizer by 8.7% in the first quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 125,964 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,176,000 after purchasing an additional 10,051 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Redburn Atlantic reduced their price target on shares of Pfizer from $29.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. TD Cowen reduced their price target on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $28.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price target on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, May 21st. Finally, UBS Group raised their price target on shares of Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have assigned a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $28.12.

Pfizer Stock Up 0.2%

PFE opened at $24.64 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 0.85. The companys 50-day moving average is $24.49 and its 200 day moving average is $24.47. Pfizer Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $20.92 and a fifty-two week high of $30.43. The firm has a market capitalization of $140.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.10, a PEG ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 0.52.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.78 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.58 by $0.20. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. The company had revenue of $14.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.43 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.60 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 10.3% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts expect that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, July 25th will be given a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 7.0%. Pfizers payout ratio is currently 91.49%.

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.

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Francis Financial Inc. cut its position in Southern Company (The) (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 9.2% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,570 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 260 shares during the quarter. Francis Financial Inc.s holdings in Southern were worth $236,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of SO. Investors Research Corp lifted its holdings in shares of Southern by 400.0% during the 1st quarter. Investors Research Corp now owns 270 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 216 shares during the period. Cheviot Value Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Southern during the 1st quarter worth about $28,000. Financial Connections Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of Southern during the 1st quarter worth about $33,000. Rossby Financial LCC bought a new position in shares of Southern during the 1st quarter worth about $39,000. Finally, Elequin Capital LP lifted its holdings in shares of Southern by 60.6% during the 4th quarter. Elequin Capital LP now owns 498 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 188 shares during the period. 64.10% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Southern Stock Down 0.7%

Shares of NYSE:SO opened at $93.88 on Wednesday. Southern Company has a one year low of $80.46 and a one year high of $96.44. The company has a 50 day moving average of $92.13 and a 200-day moving average of $90.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.54. The stock has a market cap of $103.27 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.13, a P/E/G ratio of 3.27 and a beta of 0.38.

Southern Announces Dividend

Southern ( NYSE:SO Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The utilities provider reported $0.91 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.99 by ($0.08). Southern had a return on equity of 12.09% and a net margin of 15.10%. The business had revenue of $6.97 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.70 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.10 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 7.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Southern Company will post 4.29 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 8th. Investors of record on Monday, August 18th will be issued a dividend of $0.74 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 18th. This represents a $2.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.2%. Southerns payout ratio is currently 76.09%.

Insider Transactions at Southern

In related news, CEO Kimberly S. Greene sold 13,158 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $95.00, for a total transaction of $1,250,010.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 93,661 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,897,795. The trade was a 12.32% 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 this link. Corporate insiders own 0.16% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

SO has been the subject of several analyst reports. Scotiabank lifted their price target on shares of Southern from $98.00 to $99.00 and gave the company a sector outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on shares of Southern in a report on Friday, June 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $98.00 price target for the company. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on shares of Southern from $95.00 to $99.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, May 2nd. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of Southern from $98.00 to $102.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 22nd. Finally, KeyCorp downgraded shares of Southern from a sector weight rating to an underweight rating and set a $78.00 price target for the company. in a report on Wednesday, May 14th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $94.29.

View Our Latest Stock Report on SO

About Southern

(Free Report)

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.

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GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 19,564 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $1,341,000. iShares MSCI Japan ETF makes up 1.1% of GKV Capital Management Co. Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 20th biggest position.

Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. DAVENPORT & Co LLC increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 7.3% in the first quarter. DAVENPORT & Co LLC now owns 3,239 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $222,000 after buying an additional 220 shares in the last quarter. Robertson Stephens Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 3.7% in the first quarter. Robertson Stephens Wealth Management LLC now owns 6,369 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $437,000 after buying an additional 225 shares in the last quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 195.2% in the first quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 372 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 246 shares in the last quarter. Close Asset Management Ltd increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 5.0% in the first quarter. Close Asset Management Ltd now owns 5,300 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $363,000 after buying an additional 250 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 5.5% in the first quarter. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc now owns 5,118 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $343,000 after buying an additional 265 shares in the last quarter. 64.60% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares MSCI Japan ETF Price Performance

iShares MSCI Japan ETF stock opened at $79.23 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $16.45 billion, a PE ratio of 14.63 and a beta of 0.68. iShares MSCI Japan ETF has a 12 month low of $59.84 and a 12 month high of $79.34. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $74.01 and a 200-day simple moving average of $71.20.

iShares MSCI Japan ETF Profile

iShares MSCI Japan ETF (the fund), formerly Ishares Msci Japan Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Japanese market, as measured by the MSCI Japan Index (the Index).

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Gulf International Bank UK Ltd lessened its position in Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) by 25.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 35,919 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 12,466 shares during the quarter. Gulf International Bank UK Ltds holdings in Accenture were worth $11,208,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of ACN. Lipe & Dalton boosted its position in shares of Accenture by 2,087.4% during the 1st quarter. Lipe & Dalton now owns 5,031 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $1,570,000 after acquiring an additional 4,801 shares in the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors boosted its position in shares of Accenture by 16.8% during the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 12,295,748 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $4,325,526,000 after acquiring an additional 1,770,024 shares in the last quarter. Alteri Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Accenture during the 4th quarter valued at about $321,000. United Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Accenture during the 1st quarter valued at about $758,000. Finally, Exchange Traded Concepts LLC boosted its position in Accenture by 62.2% in the first quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 905 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $282,000 after buying an additional 347 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 75.14% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

ACN has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Hsbc Global Res upgraded shares of Accenture to a moderate sell rating in a research report on Monday, July 28th. Evercore ISI initiated coverage on shares of Accenture in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. They issued an outperform rating and a $330.00 price target on the stock. Barclays reduced their price target on shares of Accenture from $390.00 to $360.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, June 23rd. Mizuho set a $348.00 price target on shares of Accenture and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 24th. Finally, Argus set a $370.00 price target on shares of Accenture in a research report on Tuesday, June 24th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $360.21.

Insider Buying and Selling at Accenture

In other Accenture news, insider Angela Beatty sold 203 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $282.34, for a total value of $57,315.02. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 5,249 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,482,002.66. This represents a 3.72% 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, CEO Julie Spellman Sweet sold 2,251 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $282.45, for a total transaction of $635,794.95. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 8,109 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,290,387.05. The trade was a 21.73% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 2,954 shares of company stock valued at $834,280. Corporate insiders own 0.02% of the companys stock.

Accenture Trading Down 0.4%

ACN opened at $237.68 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 1.46 and a quick ratio of 1.46. The company has a market cap of $148.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.17 and a beta of 1.29. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $288.13 and a 200 day simple moving average of $313.86. Accenture PLC has a fifty-two week low of $236.67 and a fifty-two week high of $398.35.

Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, June 20th. The information technology services provider reported $3.49 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.32 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $17.73 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.26 billion. Accenture had a net margin of 11.61% and a return on equity of 26.55%. Accentures revenue for the quarter was up 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $3.13 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Accenture PLC will post 12.73 earnings per share for the current year.

Accenture Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 10th will be paid a $1.48 dividend. This represents a $5.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, July 10th. Accentures dividend payout ratio is presently 47.13%.

Accenture Company Profile

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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Gulf International Bank UK Ltd lowered its holdings in shares of Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Free Report) by 26.1% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 138,158 shares of the companys stock after selling 48,804 shares during the quarter. Johnson & Johnson comprises 0.8% of Gulf International Bank UK Ltds holdings, making the stock its 20th largest holding. Gulf International Bank UK Ltds holdings in Johnson & Johnson were worth $22,912,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 0.5% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 233,962,679 shares of the companys stock worth $38,800,371,000 after purchasing an additional 1,170,120 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp raised its position in Johnson & Johnson by 12.3% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 30,813,175 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,456,201,000 after buying an additional 3,363,235 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in Johnson & Johnson by 26.4% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 23,182,464 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,844,580,000 after buying an additional 4,842,582 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in Johnson & Johnson by 3.9% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 18,899,263 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,133,602,000 after buying an additional 712,181 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in Johnson & Johnson by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 18,282,410 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,031,955,000 after buying an additional 448,666 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 69.55% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on JNJ. Leerink Partners lowered Johnson & Johnson from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and dropped their target price for the company from $169.00 to $153.00 in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. Leerink Partnrs lowered Johnson & Johnson from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. UBS Group lifted their target price on Johnson & Johnson from $180.00 to $190.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Barclays boosted their price target on Johnson & Johnson from $165.00 to $176.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Benchmark raised Johnson & Johnson to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $174.50.

Johnson & Johnson Stock Performance

JNJ opened at $172.79 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $160.00 and a 200 day simple moving average of $157.90. The company has a market capitalization of $416.14 billion, a PE ratio of 18.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.41. Johnson & Johnson has a 1 year low of $140.68 and a 1 year high of $174.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.01 and a quick ratio of 0.76.

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The company reported $2.77 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.68 by $0.09. The business had revenue of $23.74 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $22.85 billion. Johnson & Johnson had a return on equity of 32.49% and a net margin of 25.00%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.82 EPS. Research analysts expect that Johnson & Johnson will post 10.58 EPS for the current year.

Johnson & Johnson Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, August 26th will be paid a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, August 26th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.0%. Johnson & Johnsons payout ratio is 55.61%.

Johnson & Johnson Profile

(Free Report)

Johnson & Johnson is a holding company, which engages in the research, development, manufacture, and sale of products in the healthcare field. It operates through the Innovative Medicine and MedTech segments. The Innovative Medicine segment focuses on immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, cardiovascular and metabolism, and pulmonary hypertension.

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Francis Financial Inc. lowered its stake in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV  Free Report) by 5.6% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,083 shares of the companys stock after selling 240 shares during the quarter. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF makes up about 0.6% of Francis Financial Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 25th biggest position. Francis Financial Inc.s holdings in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF were worth $2,294,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Heck Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF in the 4th quarter valued at $331,591,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 2.8% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 29,048 shares of the companys stock valued at $17,100,000 after acquiring an additional 804 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 11.5% in the 4th quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 8,423 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,958,000 after acquiring an additional 866 shares during the period. Renaissance Technologies LLC increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 309.1% in the 4th quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 27,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $15,894,000 after acquiring an additional 20,400 shares during the period. Finally, Sterling Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 337.0% in the 4th quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC now owns 2,128 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,253,000 after acquiring an additional 1,641 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.12% of the companys stock.

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iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Price Performance

Shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF stock opened at $645.74 on Wednesday. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $621.49 and its 200-day simple moving average is $590.53. The stock has a market capitalization of $650.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.10 and a beta of 1.00. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF has a 12 month low of $484.00 and a 12 month high of $645.99.

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Company 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.

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LGT Group Foundation lowered its holdings in Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM  Free Report) by 6.4% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 142,711 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 9,808 shares during the quarter. LGT Group Foundations holdings in Newmont were worth $6,890,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. increased its holdings in shares of Newmont by 64.0% in the 1st quarter. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. now owns 515 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 201 shares during the last quarter. Cloud Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Newmont in the 1st quarter valued at about $26,000. Private Trust Co. NA increased its holdings in shares of Newmont by 122.6% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 630 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 347 shares during the last quarter. Nexus Investment Management ULC purchased a new position in shares of Newmont in the 1st quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, TCTC Holdings LLC increased its holdings in shares of Newmont by 123.1% in the 1st quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 656 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 362 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.85% of the companys stock.

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Newmont Stock Up 0.1%

Newmont stock opened at $68.91 on Wednesday. Newmont Corporation has a twelve month low of $36.86 and a twelve month high of $70.29. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $60.11 and a two-hundred day moving average of $52.62. The company has a current ratio of 2.23, a quick ratio of 1.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $75.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.37, a PEG ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.30.

Newmont Announces Dividend

Newmont ( NYSE:NEM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 24th. The basic materials company reported $1.43 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.95 by $0.48. Newmont had a return on equity of 17.86% and a net margin of 30.50%. The company had revenue of $5.32 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.70 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.72 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 20.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that Newmont Corporation will post 3.45 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, September 4th will be issued a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 4th. Newmonts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 17.95%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently commented on NEM shares. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $60.90 price objective on shares of Newmont in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. National Bank Financial upgraded Newmont from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, July 25th. UBS Group upped their target price on Newmont from $60.00 to $68.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 3rd. Argus set a $63.00 target price on Newmont in a research report on Friday, April 25th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Newmont from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating, nine have given a buy rating and four have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Newmont currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $64.58.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Newmont

Insider Activity

In other news, EVP Peter Toth sold 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $63.66, for a total value of $190,980.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 58,736 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,739,133.76. This trade represents a 4.86% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Bruce R. Brook sold 2,077 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $63.66, for a total value of $132,221.82. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 41,026 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,611,715.16. This represents a 4.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 22,246 shares of company stock valued at $1,373,251 in the last three months. 0.05% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Newmont Company Profile

(Free Report)

Newmont Corporation engages in the production and exploration of gold. It also explores for copper, silver, zinc, and lead. The company has operations and/or assets in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Peru, Suriname, Argentina, Chile, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Ecuador, Fiji, and Ghana.

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Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in shares of Moodys Corporation (NYSE:MCO  Free Report) by 2.7% during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 17,137 shares of the business services providers stock after acquiring an additional 450 shares during the quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Moodys were worth $7,981,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MCO. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC raised its stake in shares of Moodys by 1,000.0% in the 1st quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 55 shares of the business services providers stock worth $26,000 after buying an additional 50 shares in the last quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in Moodys by 5,050.0% during the first quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 103 shares of the business services providers stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 101 shares during the period. Alpine Bank Wealth Management bought a new stake in Moodys in the first quarter worth about $49,000. Meeder Asset Management Inc. raised its position in Moodys by 132.6% in the first quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 107 shares of the business services providers stock worth $50,000 after acquiring an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Motco lifted its holdings in Moodys by 581.3% in the 1st quarter. Motco now owns 109 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $51,000 after acquiring an additional 93 shares during the last quarter. 92.11% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Moodys from $495.00 to $565.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, July 21st. Robert W. Baird raised their target price on shares of Moodys from $525.00 to $552.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Oppenheimer upped their price target on Moodys from $552.00 to $563.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on Moodys from $573.00 to $595.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, Mizuho raised their price objective on Moodys from $496.00 to $532.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, July 25th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Moodys has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $538.80.

Moodys Trading Up 0.9%

NYSE:MCO opened at $516.34 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $92.42 billion, a PE ratio of 43.87, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.27 and a beta of 1.40. Moodys Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $378.71 and a fifty-two week high of $531.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.70, a current ratio of 1.75 and a quick ratio of 1.75. The stocks 50-day moving average is $497.31 and its two-hundred day moving average is $478.94.

Moodys (NYSE:MCO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The business services provider reported $3.56 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.39 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $1.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.82 billion. Moodys had a net margin of 29.18% and a return on equity of 60.73%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 4.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $3.28 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Moodys Corporation will post 13.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Moodys Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 5th. Investors of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.94 per share. This represents a $3.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. Moodyss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 31.95%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Moodys

In related news, CFO Noemie Clemence Heuland sold 897 shares of Moodys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $508.24, for a total transaction of $455,891.28. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 2,148 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,091,699.52. This trade represents a 29.46% 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, insider Michael L. West sold 3,704 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $511.10, for a total value of $1,893,114.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 8,209 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,195,619.90. The trade was a 31.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 8,593 shares of company stock valued at $4,382,984 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.14% of the companys stock.

Moodys Company Profile

(Free Report)

Moodys Corporation operates as an integrated risk assessment firm worldwide. It operates in two segments, Moodys Analytics and Moodys Investors Services. The Moodys Analytics segment develops a range of products and services that support the risk management activities of institutional participants in financial markets.

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NFP Retirement Inc. boosted its holdings in SPDR Gold Shares (NYSEARCA:GLD  Free Report) by 2.6% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 5,145 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 128 shares during the quarter. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in SPDR Gold Shares were worth $1,483,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of GLD. MJT & Associates Financial Advisory Group Inc. acquired a new stake in SPDR Gold Shares in the 1st quarter worth about $30,000. Columbia River Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in SPDR Gold Shares in the 1st quarter worth about $34,000. Stone House Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in SPDR Gold Shares in the 1st quarter worth about $34,000. HWG Holdings LP acquired a new stake in SPDR Gold Shares in the 1st quarter worth about $53,000. Finally, American National Bank & Trust raised its position in shares of SPDR Gold Shares by 189.4% in the 1st quarter. American National Bank & Trust now owns 191 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $55,000 after buying an additional 125 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 42.19% of the companys stock.

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SPDR Gold Shares Trading Down 0.1%

Shares of NYSEARCA:GLD opened at $308.27 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $308.58 and a 200-day moving average of $293.24. The stock has a market capitalization of $102.78 billion, a PE ratio of -32.43 and a beta of 0.15. SPDR Gold Shares has a 12 month low of $225.12 and a 12 month high of $317.63.

SPDR Gold Shares Profile

SPDR Gold Trust (the Trust) is an investment trust. The investment objective of the Trust is for the Shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the Trusts expenses. The Trusts business activity is the investment of gold. The Trust creates and redeems Shares from time to time, but in one or more Baskets (a Basket equals a block of 100,000 Shares).

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Boston Partners increased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 0.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 6,227,769 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 21,268 shares during the quarter. Philip Morris International accounts for about 1.2% of Boston Partners investment portfolio, making the stock its 10th largest holding. Boston Partners holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $990,265,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of PM. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,712,994,000. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 19,986.5% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 4,486,928 shares of the companys stock worth $712,210,000 after acquiring an additional 4,464,590 shares during the period. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 372.2% in the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 5,453,285 shares of the companys stock worth $656,303,000 after acquiring an additional 4,298,530 shares during the period. Capital World Investors boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 3.6% in the 4th quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 122,584,210 shares of the companys stock worth $14,752,926,000 after acquiring an additional 4,216,586 shares during the period. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 57.5% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 9,794,530 shares of the companys stock worth $1,554,686,000 after acquiring an additional 3,575,158 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.63% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently commented on PM shares. Barclays reduced their target price on Philip Morris International from $225.00 to $220.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Stifel Nicolaus upped their price target on Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Bank of America upped their price target on Philip Morris International from $182.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating and set a $182.00 price target (up from $156.00) on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Finally, Needham & Company LLC reissued a buy rating and set a $195.00 price target on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $186.27.

Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Shares of PM opened at $168.58 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $262.41 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.48. Philip Morris International Inc. has a one year low of $115.87 and a one year high of $186.69. The stocks fifty day moving average is $175.77 and its 200-day moving average is $164.04.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.05. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 120.86% and a net margin of 9.03%. The company had revenue of $10.14 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.33 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.59 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Investors of record on Friday, June 27th were paid a dividend of $1.35 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 27th. This represents a $5.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.2%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 102.66%.

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(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.

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Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its holdings in shares of Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Free Report) by 9.2% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 188,345 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 15,823 shares during the quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Aflac were worth $20,881,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in AFL. AlphaCore Capital LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Aflac during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Aflac by 121.9% during the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 304 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 167 shares in the last quarter. Garde Capital Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Aflac during the 1st quarter valued at about $36,000. Meeder Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Aflac by 90.8% during the 1st quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 330 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 157 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Capital A Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Aflac during the 4th quarter valued at about $38,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 67.44% of the companys stock.

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Aflac Trading Down 0.6%

AFL opened at $103.55 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $55.38 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.48, a P/E/G ratio of 2.93 and a beta of 0.83. Aflac Incorporated has a 12 month low of $96.95 and a 12 month high of $115.50. The company has a current ratio of 0.11, a quick ratio of 0.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $102.41 and a 200 day moving average of $104.88.

Aflac Announces Dividend

Aflac ( NYSE:AFL Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The financial services provider reported $1.78 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.71 by $0.07. Aflac had a return on equity of 15.08% and a net margin of 15.32%. The company had revenue of $4.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.30 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.83 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 19.0% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts forecast that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.88 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Investors of record on Wednesday, August 20th will be given a $0.58 dividend. This represents a $2.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 20th. Aflacs dividend payout ratio is 52.61%.

Aflac declared that its board has approved a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, August 12th that allows the company to buyback 100,000,000 outstanding shares. This buyback authorization allows the financial services provider to buy shares of its stock through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are often a sign that the companys board believes its stock is undervalued.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen raised Aflac from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. Barclays set a $98.00 price objective on Aflac and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Monday, July 7th. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on Aflac from $100.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, May 19th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on Aflac from $106.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Monday. Finally, Raymond James Financial cut their target price on Aflac from $115.00 to $110.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 29th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Aflac presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $108.23.

Get Our Latest Report on Aflac

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Aflac news, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, August 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $102.57, for a total transaction of $102,570.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 25,105 shares in the company, valued at $2,575,019.85. This trade represents a 3.83% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 37,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $105.59, for a total value of $3,906,830.00. Following the transaction, the director owned 70,992 shares in the company, valued at $7,496,045.28. The trade was a 34.26% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 40,750 shares of company stock valued at $4,300,075 in the last ninety days. 0.80% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

About Aflac

(Free Report)

Aflac Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, provides supplemental health and life insurance products. The company operates through Aflac Japan and Aflac U.S. segments. The Aflac Japan segment offers cancer, medical, nursing care, work leave, GIFT, and whole and term life insurance products, as well as WAYS and child endowment plans under saving type insurance products in Japan.

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S Bank Fund Management Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:GEV  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund acquired 9,644 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,944,000.

Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of GEV. Westover Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in GE Vernova by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Westover Capital Advisors LLC now owns 1,130 shares of the companys stock worth $345,000 after buying an additional 25 shares in the last quarter. Stonebridge Financial Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of GE Vernova by 8.9% in the 1st quarter. Stonebridge Financial Group LLC now owns 344 shares of the companys stock worth $105,000 after acquiring an additional 28 shares during the last quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of GE Vernova by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 8,510 shares of the companys stock worth $2,598,000 after acquiring an additional 30 shares during the last quarter. Hemington Wealth Management lifted its holdings in shares of GE Vernova by 20.3% in the 1st quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 178 shares of the companys stock worth $54,000 after acquiring an additional 30 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fulcrum Equity Management lifted its holdings in shares of GE Vernova by 3.6% in the 4th quarter. Fulcrum Equity Management now owns 886 shares of the companys stock worth $291,000 after acquiring an additional 31 shares during the last quarter.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on GEV. Guggenheim lowered shares of GE Vernova from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Monday, July 28th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of GE Vernova from $590.00 to $690.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of GE Vernova from $620.00 to $715.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Robert W. Baird boosted their price objective on shares of GE Vernova from $568.00 to $706.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of GE Vernova in a report on Monday, July 7th. They set a buy rating and a $614.00 price target for the company. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eighteen have assigned a buy rating and four have given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $560.21.

GE Vernova Trading Up 1.1%

Shares of GE Vernova stock opened at $658.09 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $555.12 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $427.68. The company has a market cap of $179.15 billion, a P/E ratio of 158.58, a PEG ratio of 4.50 and a beta of 1.90. GE Vernova Inc. has a 12-month low of $173.07 and a 12-month high of $677.29.

GE Vernova (NYSE:GEV  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 23rd. The company reported $1.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.63 by $0.23. The business had revenue of $9.11 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.78 billion. GE Vernova had a net margin of 3.16% and a return on equity of 13.23%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $4.65 EPS. Analysts predict that GE Vernova Inc. will post 6.59 EPS for the current fiscal year.

GE Vernova Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 18th. Stockholders of record on Monday, July 21st will be given a $0.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, July 21st. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.2%. GE Vernovas dividend payout ratio is currently 24.10%.

GE Vernova Profile

(Free Report)

GE Vernova LLC, an energy business company, generates electricity. It operates under three segments: Power, Wind, and Electrification. The Power segments generates and sells electricity through hydro, gas, nuclear, and steam power. Wind segment engages in the manufacturing and sale of wind turbine blades; and Electrification segment provides grid solutions, power conversion, solar, and storage solutions.

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SouthState Corp grew its holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG  Free Report) by 139.5% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,796 shares of the restaurant operators stock after purchasing an additional 1,046 shares during the quarter. SouthState Corps holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill were worth $90,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the business. Cloud Capital Management LLC bought a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter worth approximately $25,000. HighMark Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 173.4% during the 1st quarter. HighMark Wealth Management LLC now owns 585 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 371 shares during the last quarter. North Capital Inc. bought a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter worth approximately $30,000. ORG Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter worth approximately $31,000. Finally, Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. bought a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 4th quarter worth approximately $45,000. Institutional investors own 91.31% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

CMG has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets raised shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $56.00 to $65.00 in a research note on Friday, July 18th. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $67.00 to $65.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Loop Capital dropped their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $65.00 to $63.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Piper Sandler upgraded shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $53.00 to $50.00 in a report on Tuesday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $65.00 to $60.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $60.61.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, insider Roger E. Theodoredis sold 113,875 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $49.70, for a total value of $5,659,587.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 109,815 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,457,805.50. The trade was a 50.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 1.02% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Performance

Shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill stock opened at $42.78 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $50.90 and a 200-day moving average of $51.41. The stock has a market cap of $57.36 billion, a PE ratio of 38.19, a PEG ratio of 2.12 and a beta of 1.05. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a 52-week low of $41.18 and a 52-week high of $66.74.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The restaurant operator reported $0.33 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.32 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $3.06 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.11 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a return on equity of 43.50% and a net margin of 13.32%. Chipotle Mexican Grills revenue for the quarter was up 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.34 earnings per share. Equities research analysts predict that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 1.29 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Profile

(Free Report)

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

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GQG Partners LLC reduced its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 91.4% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 420 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 4,450 shares during the period. GQG Partners LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $230,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the business. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 38.6% during the 1st quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. now owns 4,745 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $2,592,000 after buying an additional 1,321 shares during the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 9,627 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $5,259,000 after buying an additional 125 shares during the last quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 13.9% during the 1st quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. now owns 52,887 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $28,890,000 after buying an additional 6,436 shares during the last quarter. National Pension Service boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. National Pension Service now owns 613,206 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $334,988,000 after buying an additional 11,338 shares during the last quarter. Finally, LGT Group Foundation boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 63.9% during the 1st quarter. LGT Group Foundation now owns 13,353 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $7,295,000 after buying an additional 5,208 shares during the last quarter. 71.21% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on GS shares. Evercore ISI set a $715.00 price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Wall Street Zen upgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, July 12th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated a sector perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Hsbc Global Res cut The Goldman Sachs Group from a hold rating to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $680.00 to $715.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $660.00.

The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance

NYSE:GS opened at $743.06 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $686.71 and its 200 day moving average price is $615.52. The firm has a market cap of $224.94 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.37, a PEG ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 1.38. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $439.38 and a 52-week high of $748.14. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The investment management company reported $10.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $9.82 by $1.09. The firm had revenue of $14.58 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.53 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 14.32% and a net margin of 12.37%. The Goldman Sachs Groups revenue was up 14.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $8.62 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Investors of record on Friday, August 29th will be paid a $4.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.2%. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 26.44%.

Insider Buying and Selling at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, CEO David M. Solomon sold 6,608 shares of The Goldman Sachs Group stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $712.31, for a total transaction of $4,706,944.48. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 126,176 shares of the companys stock, valued at $89,876,426.56. The trade was a 4.98% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Denis P. Coleman sold 7,463 shares of The Goldman Sachs Group stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $724.40, for a total value of $5,406,197.20. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 18,594 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,469,493.60. This trade represents a 28.64% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 20,079 shares of company stock valued at $14,423,221 in the last 90 days. 0.55% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

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.

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Triglav Skladi D.O.O. lowered its position in shares of The Progressive Corporation (NYSE:PGR  Free Report) by 90.8% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,630 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 25,985 shares during the quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O.s holdings in Progressive were worth $744,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. State of Alaska Department of Revenue lifted its position in Progressive by 2.7% during the 1st quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 68,644 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $19,426,000 after acquiring an additional 1,800 shares during the period. QRG Capital Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Progressive by 36.4% in the 1st quarter. QRG Capital Management Inc. now owns 126,826 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $35,893,000 after buying an additional 33,864 shares during the period. MEAG MUNICH ERGO Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH lifted its holdings in shares of Progressive by 498.5% in the 1st quarter. MEAG MUNICH ERGO Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH now owns 5,057 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,431,000 after buying an additional 4,212 shares during the period. Hennessy Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Progressive in the 1st quarter valued at about $3,141,000. Finally, TCW Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Progressive by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. TCW Group Inc. now owns 12,034 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $3,406,000 after buying an additional 523 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.34% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Progressive

In other news, insider Karen Bailo sold 8,922 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $249.24, for a total transaction of $2,223,719.28. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 32,346 shares in the company, valued at $8,061,917.04. The trade was a 21.62% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Patrick K. Callahan sold 6,232 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $242.16, for a total value of $1,509,141.12. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 27,844 shares in the company, valued at $6,742,703.04. This represents a 18.29% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 104,250 shares of company stock worth $26,332,348. 0.33% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on PGR shares. Cantor Fitzgerald started coverage on Progressive in a report on Tuesday. They issued a neutral rating for the company. Bank of America decreased their price objective on Progressive from $337.00 to $336.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Evercore ISI cut Progressive from an outperform rating to an in-line rating and set a $275.00 price objective for the company. in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their price target on Progressive from $290.00 to $268.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, UBS Group cut their price target on Progressive from $280.00 to $268.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 21st. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $283.94.

View Our Latest Analysis on Progressive

Progressive Price Performance

NYSE:PGR opened at $242.75 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $142.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.44 and a beta of 0.33. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $255.02 and a two-hundred day moving average of $266.33. The Progressive Corporation has a 12 month low of $220.33 and a 12 month high of $292.99. The company has a current ratio of 0.31, a quick ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21.

Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The insurance provider reported $4.88 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.43 by $0.45. The business had revenue of $20.08 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.39 billion. Progressive had a return on equity of 35.37% and a net margin of 12.66%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 12.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.48 EPS. On average, analysts expect that The Progressive Corporation will post 14.68 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Progressive Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, October 2nd will be issued a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.2%. Progressives dividend payout ratio is currently 2.25%.

About Progressive

(Free Report)

The Progressive Corporation, an insurance holding company, provides personal and commercial auto, personal residential and commercial property, business related general liability, and other specialty property-casualty insurance products and related services in the United States. It operates in three segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property.

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Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 1.8% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 154,844 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 2,787 shares during the period. Philip Morris International accounts for approximately 0.9% of Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings, making the stock its 22nd biggest position. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $24,578,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Perigon Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 0.4% in 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 during the period. TBH Global Asset Management LLC increased its position in Philip Morris International by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. TBH Global Asset Management LLC now owns 6,932 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,100,000 after acquiring an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. NFP Retirement Inc. grew its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 2.5% during the 1st quarter. NFP Retirement Inc. now owns 2,589 shares of the companys stock worth $411,000 after buying an additional 62 shares during the period. Capital Advisors Wealth Management LLC grew its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Capital Advisors Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,005 shares of the companys stock worth $477,000 after buying an additional 63 shares during the period. Finally, Renasant Bank boosted its stake in Philip Morris International by 3.3% during the 1st quarter. Renasant Bank now owns 1,994 shares of the companys stock worth $317,000 after acquiring an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. 78.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Philip Morris International Price Performance

Shares of PM stock opened at $168.58 on Wednesday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a one year low of $115.87 and a one year high of $186.69. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $175.77 and a 200-day moving average of $164.04. The company has a market cap of $262.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.05, a P/E/G ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.48.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.05. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.03% and a negative return on equity of 120.86%. The business had revenue of $10.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.33 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.59 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 7.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

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 dividend of $1.35 per share. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.2%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 27th. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 102.66%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have weighed in on PM shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $175.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Jefferies Financial Group began coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. They set a buy rating and a $220.00 price objective for the company. Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and set a $195.00 price objective on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Finally, UBS Group upped their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $170.00 to $181.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Philip Morris International currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $186.27.

Read Our Latest Report on PM

Philip Morris International Profile

(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.

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Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. trimmed its stake in HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB  Free Report) by 0.2% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 240,900 shares of the banks stock after selling 600 shares during the period. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in HDFC Bank were worth $16,005,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its stake in shares of HDFC Bank by 1,217.1% during the first quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 461 shares of the banks stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 426 shares during the last quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of HDFC Bank by 448.7% in the first quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 620 shares of the banks stock valued at $41,000 after buying an additional 507 shares during the period. NBC Securities Inc. acquired a new position in HDFC Bank during the first quarter worth $55,000. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. boosted its holdings in HDFC Bank by 109.7% during the first quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. now owns 847 shares of the banks stock worth $56,000 after purchasing an additional 443 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rakuten Securities Inc. boosted its holdings in HDFC Bank by 233.0% during the first quarter. Rakuten Securities Inc. now owns 899 shares of the banks stock worth $60,000 after purchasing an additional 629 shares during the last quarter. 17.61% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of HDFC Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, July 26th.

HDFC Bank Trading Down 0.3%

Shares of HDFC Bank stock opened at $73.85 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $188.37 billion, a PE ratio of 22.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.85 and a beta of 0.64. The firms 50 day moving average is $76.06 and its 200 day moving average is $69.67. HDFC Bank Limited has a 1 year low of $57.78 and a 1 year high of $79.61.

HDFC Bank (NYSE:HDB  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Saturday, July 19th. The bank reported $0.74 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.75 by ($0.01). HDFC Bank had a return on equity of 11.60% and a net margin of 14.49%. The firm had revenue of $5.10 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.03 billion. As a group, research analysts anticipate that HDFC Bank Limited will post 3.03 earnings per share for the current year.

HDFC Bank Company Profile

(Free Report)

HDFC Bank Limited provides banking and financial services to individuals and businesses in India, Bahrain, Hong Kong, and Dubai. The company operates in three segments: Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking, and Treasury Services. It accepts savings, salary, current, rural, public provident fund, pension, and demat accounts; fixed and recurring deposits; and safe deposit lockers, as well as offshore accounts and deposits, and overdrafts against fixed deposits.

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Westpac Banking Corp reduced its position in Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. (NYSE:REXR  Free Report) by 4.5% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 62,849 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 2,965 shares during the period. Westpac Banking Corps holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty were worth $2,461,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in REXR. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty by 2.6% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 30,711,076 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,202,339,000 after purchasing an additional 779,095 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its position in Rexford Industrial Realty by 130.2% in the 1st quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 7,751,922 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $303,488,000 after purchasing an additional 4,384,624 shares during the period. Centersquare Investment Management LLC raised its stake in Rexford Industrial Realty by 7.0% during the 1st quarter. Centersquare Investment Management LLC now owns 4,808,035 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $188,235,000 after buying an additional 315,869 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty by 18.3% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,856,451 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $150,980,000 after buying an additional 595,759 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in the 1st quarter worth $146,155,000. 99.52% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Rexford Industrial Realty Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE REXR opened at $36.99 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $8.75 billion, a PE ratio of 27.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.05 and a beta of 1.10. Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. has a 1 year low of $29.68 and a 1 year high of $52.61. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $36.69 and a 200-day moving average price of $37.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 5.59 and a quick ratio of 5.59.

Rexford Industrial Realty Dividend Announcement

Rexford Industrial Realty ( NYSE:REXR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.59 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.58 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $241.57 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $251.72 million. Rexford Industrial Realty had a net margin of 32.04% and a return on equity of 3.62%. Rexford Industrial Realtys quarterly revenue was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.60 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. will post 2.38 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th will be paid a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 30th. Rexford Industrial Realtys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 127.41%.

Insider Transactions at Rexford Industrial Realty

In other Rexford Industrial Realty news, General Counsel David E. Lanzer sold 26,449 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $36.87, for a total value of $975,174.63. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 1.20% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

REXR has been the subject of a number of research reports. Robert W. Baird set a $43.00 price objective on Rexford Industrial Realty in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Evercore ISI lowered shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from an outperform rating to an in-line rating and reduced their price target for the company from $39.00 to $38.00 in a research report on Friday, July 18th. Scotiabank lowered their price objective on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from $39.00 to $37.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, May 12th. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from $38.00 to $35.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from $45.00 to $39.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, May 19th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $39.82.

Read Our Latest Research Report on REXR

Rexford Industrial Realty Company Profile

(Free Report)

Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust, which engages in owning and operating industrial properties in infill markets. The company was founded by Richard S. Ziman on January 18, 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA.

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Comrades, dont you dare call shoplifters, thugs and thieves scumbags. In Labours Big State, criminals are protected and encouraged to continue their reign of terror and those who fight back against thugs are punished, arrested and vilified. In the Peoples Republic of Soviet Britain the laws of the past are reversed, simply because we in the PRSB want to destroy every vestige of the past in the place that used to be called Great Britain.

In this respect, if any proletariat is seen defending their home from robbers, or their loved ones from thugs, they will be arrested and charged. Yes, there will be gulag time, and some of the most wealthy offenders will be liquidated and their remaining assets assimilated.

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Accumulating wealth or aspiration is a crime. In the PRSB, if you are found to have accumulated some form of wealth, it will immediately be confiscated by the Big State either through taxation or brute force.

To keep you fucking tax paying scum in a state of perpetual terror is truly delightsome.

INGSOC NOTICE 4-345-23-6-6754-45-0

JANGFRAMADARAM MANGARMARAMRAMJARRAM 34, OF JUST-OFF-THE-BOAT ROAD, HAS BEEN AWARDED 0.12 GRAMS INCREASE IN SUGAR RATIONS PER ANNUM AND GIVEN THREE BOXES OF USED CONDOMS. HE REPORTED FIFTEEN LOCAL SHOPKEEPERS FOR MOANING ABOUT THEIR SHOPS BEING SHOPLIFTED AND CALLING SHOPLIFTERS SCUMBAGS. THE CAPITALIST PIG SHOPKEEPERS WERE TAKEN AWAY IN THE EARLY HOURS OF SUNDAY MORNING AND LIQUIDATED. THE SHOPLIFTERS WERE COMMENDED FOR THEIR HARD WORK AND ENCOURAGED TO CONTINUE SHOPLIFTING. REMEMBER COMRADES, LOOK, LISTEN, REPORT!
Blair William & Co. IL lowered its stake in Arrow Electronics, Inc. (NYSE:ARW  Free Report) by 24.9% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,290 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 761 shares during the quarter. Blair William & Co. ILs holdings in Arrow Electronics were worth $238,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Beverly Hills Private Wealth LLC increased its stake in Arrow Electronics by 4.2% in the 1st quarter. Beverly Hills Private Wealth LLC now owns 2,643 shares of the technology companys stock worth $274,000 after purchasing an additional 106 shares in the last quarter. Net Worth Advisory Group increased its stake in Arrow Electronics by 1.8% in the 1st quarter. Net Worth Advisory Group now owns 6,724 shares of the technology companys stock worth $698,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares in the last quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in Arrow Electronics by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,887 shares of the technology companys stock worth $507,000 after purchasing an additional 121 shares in the last quarter. Fulton Bank N.A. increased its stake in Arrow Electronics by 6.4% in the 1st quarter. Fulton Bank N.A. now owns 2,026 shares of the technology companys stock worth $210,000 after purchasing an additional 122 shares in the last quarter. Finally, SummerHaven Investment Management LLC increased its stake in Arrow Electronics by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. SummerHaven Investment Management LLC now owns 6,577 shares of the technology companys stock worth $683,000 after purchasing an additional 124 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.34% of the companys stock.

Insider Activity

In other news, SVP Carine Lamercie Jean-Claude sold 2,660 shares of Arrow Electronics stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $124.64, for a total transaction of $331,542.40. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 17,057 shares in the company, valued at $2,125,984.48. The trade was a 13.49% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Sean J. Kerins purchased 8,630 shares of Arrow Electronics stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 1st. The shares were purchased at an average price of $114.91 per share, with a total value of $991,673.30. Following the completion of the acquisition, the chief executive officer owned 122,408 shares in the company, valued at $14,065,903.28. The trade was a 7.58% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 0.80% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Arrow Electronics Trading Up 2.8%

Shares of NYSE ARW opened at $123.33 on Wednesday. Arrow Electronics, Inc. has a one year low of $86.50 and a one year high of $137.80. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.35 billion, a PE ratio of 13.95, a PEG ratio of 0.57 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a current ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $126.08 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $115.32.

Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The technology company reported $2.43 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.03 by $0.40. The business had revenue of $7.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.12 billion. Arrow Electronics had a return on equity of 8.37% and a net margin of 1.64%. The firms revenue was up 10.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.78 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Arrow Electronics, Inc. will post 10.57 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on ARW shares. Wall Street Zen raised Arrow Electronics from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, July 26th. Bank of America raised their price objective on Arrow Electronics from $105.00 to $110.00 and gave the stock an underperform rating in a research report on Monday, June 9th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $115.75.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Arrow Electronics

Arrow Electronics Company Profile

(Free Report)

Arrow Electronics, Inc provides products, services, and solutions to industrial and commercial users of electronic components and enterprise computing solutions in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates in two segments, Global Components and Global Enterprise Computing Solutions.

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Natixis Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Free Report) by 39.7% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 17,096 shares of the asset managers stock after purchasing an additional 4,862 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors LLCs holdings in Invesco were worth $259,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

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Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. D.A. Davidson & CO. lifted its position in shares of Invesco by 1.6% in the 1st quarter. D.A. Davidson & CO. now owns 47,462 shares of the asset managers stock worth $720,000 after purchasing an additional 755 shares during the period. True Wealth Design LLC lifted its position in shares of Invesco by 18.3% in the 4th quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 5,183 shares of the asset managers stock worth $91,000 after purchasing an additional 801 shares during the period. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co lifted its position in Invesco by 0.5% during the 4th quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co now owns 153,250 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $2,677,000 after acquiring an additional 835 shares during the period. CWM LLC lifted its position in Invesco by 0.5% during the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 163,434 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $2,479,000 after acquiring an additional 862 shares during the period. Finally, Treasurer of the State of North Carolina lifted its position in Invesco by 0.6% during the 4th quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 160,661 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $2,808,000 after acquiring an additional 1,010 shares during the period. 66.09% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Invesco Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:IVZ opened at $21.04 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $9.38 billion, a PE ratio of 22.62, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.11 and a beta of 1.55. Invesco Ltd. has a twelve month low of $11.60 and a twelve month high of $21.85. The companys 50 day moving average is $17.63 and its 200 day moving average is $16.26. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88.

Invesco Dividend Announcement

Invesco ( NYSE:IVZ Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 22nd. The asset manager reported $0.36 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.41 by ($0.05). The firm had revenue of $1.10 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.09 billion. Invesco had a return on equity of 8.60% and a net margin of 10.68%. Invescos revenue for the quarter was up 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.43 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Invesco Ltd. will post 1.87 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 14th will be issued a $0.21 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, August 14th. This represents a $0.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.0%. Invescos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 90.32%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Invesco from $15.00 to $16.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 2nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on shares of Invesco from $19.00 to $16.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 16th. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Invesco from $17.00 to $22.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Evercore ISI lifted their price target on shares of Invesco from $13.00 to $15.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised shares of Invesco from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and lifted their price target for the company from $14.50 to $18.00 in a research report on Friday, July 11th. Fourteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $18.78.

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About Invesco

(Free Report)

Invesco Ltd. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm provides its services to retail clients, institutional clients, high-net worth clients, public entities, corporations, unions, non-profit organizations, endowments, foundations, pension funds, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds.

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In a powerful display of bilateral cooperation, the United States and Panama have concluded PANAMAX-Alpha 2025, a multi-phase joint military exercise designed to strengthen the defense of one of the worlds most critical maritime arteries. The drills, which culminated in early August, simulated a series of complex threats to the Panama Canals security and sovereignty. Coordinated by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the exercise underscores a renewed focus on the canals strategic importance under the Trump administration and highlights growing concerns over regional stability and foreign influence.

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A Multi-Layered Strategy for Defense

The 2025 exercises were structured in three distinct phases, creating a comprehensive framework for readiness. The operation began in late March with Phase 0, a humanitarian mission focused on delivering medical aid, food, and infrastructure support to remote Panamanian communities in Guna Yala and Colon. This initial phase emphasized disaster preparedness and civil-military engagement.

By mid-July, Phase I shifted to tactical military training, with U.S. and Panamanian forces conducting joint air mobility, maritime security, and fast-rope insertion drills at key locations like Panama Pacifico and Cristobal Colon. The final and most intensive stage, Phase II, took place in early August at Panamas Cerro Tigre training range. This phase tested the combined forces ability to execute a rapid and integrated response to a simulated major attack, involving mounted patrols, close-quarters combat, and tactics to counter illicit drug trafficking.

Geopolitical Undercurrents and a High-Stakes Waterway

The Panama Canal is a linchpin of global commerce, accounting for roughly 6% of worldwide trade and serving as a crucial transit point for military and commercial vessels. Its security has been elevated to a top-tier national security priority for the United States under President Donald Trump, who has been vocal about countering perceived threats to American interests in the region. The administration has pointed specifically to Chinas expanding economic footprint in Panama, including investments in port infrastructure, as a potential strategic vulnerability. President Trump has publicly stated that China is operating the Panama Canal and has pledged to take it back if necessary, reflecting deep-seated concerns in Washington that Beijings influence could compromise the canals neutrality or operational integrity.

Defense planners are focused on a spectrum of modern threats, from state-sponsored cyber-attacks targeting the canals sophisticated control systems to the exploitation of its transit routes by transnational criminal organizations.

Elite Forces and Future-Focused Readiness

Phase II of PANAMAX-Alpha 2025 brought together a host of specialized U.S. military units, including Naval Special Warfare Group ELEVEN, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, the 7th Special Forces Group, and the Coast Guards Maritime Security Response Team EAST. Their integration with Panamanian Security Forces was central to the exercises goal of countering complex, multi-domain threats.

U.S. military leaders praised the outcome of the joint operation. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Innis E. Bryant, a SOUTHCOM exercise chief, noted the growing professionalism and leadership ownership demonstrated by the Panamanian forces. Echoing this sentiment, SOUTHCOM Commander U.S. Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey stressed that defending the canal is a strategic necessity to deter illicit trafficking, cyber warfare, and regional destabilization efforts. First launched in 2003, the PANAMAX exercise series and its bilateral component, PANAMAX-Alpha, continue to evolve, reinforcing an enduring security alliance built on shared interests in maintaining a secure and freely accessible global commons.
US Bancorp DE lifted its stake in shares of Permian Resources Corporation (NYSE:PR  Free Report) by 54.7% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 31,902 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 11,279 shares during the quarter. US Bancorp DEs holdings in Permian Resources were worth $442,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

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A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Allworth Financial LP boosted its stake in shares of Permian Resources by 376.7% during the first quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 2,069 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 1,635 shares in the last quarter. Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Permian Resources during the first quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Tsfg LLC bought a new position in shares of Permian Resources during the first quarter valued at approximately $46,000. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of Permian Resources by 30.8% during the first quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 3,909 shares of the companys stock valued at $54,000 after purchasing an additional 921 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Permian Resources by 114.2% during the first quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 4,453 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,000 after purchasing an additional 2,374 shares in the last quarter. 91.84% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Permian Resources Trading Up 3.0%

NYSE:PR opened at $13.38 on Wednesday. Permian Resources Corporation has a 12 month low of $10.01 and a 12 month high of $16.33. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $13.90 and a 200-day simple moving average of $13.39. The company has a current ratio of 0.63, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The company has a market capitalization of $10.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.69 and a beta of 1.32.

Permian Resources Dividend Announcement

Permian Resources ( NYSE:PR Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 6th. The company reported $0.27 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.27. Permian Resources had a net margin of 22.41% and a return on equity of 10.91%. The business had revenue of $1.20 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.23 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.39 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 3.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Permian Resources Corporation will post 1.45 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th will be paid a dividend of $0.15 per share. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.5%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 16th. Permian Resourcess payout ratio is presently 38.96%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Bank of America increased their price objective on shares of Permian Resources from $15.00 to $16.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. TD Cowen upgraded shares of Permian Resources to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Monday, July 7th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on shares of Permian Resources from $14.00 to $16.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, May 16th. Piper Sandler raised their target price on shares of Permian Resources from $19.00 to $20.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Raymond James Financial restated a strong-buy rating and issued a $23.00 target price (up from $20.00) on shares of Permian Resources in a research note on Monday, May 19th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $18.47.

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About Permian Resources

(Free Report)

Permian Resources Corporation, an independent oil and natural gas company, focuses on the development of crude oil and related liquids-rich natural gas reserves in the United States. The companys assets primarily focus on the Delaware Basin, a sub-basin of the Permian Basin. Its properties consist of acreage blocks in West Texas, Eddy County, Lea County, and New Mexico.

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Oceanic Awards have announced the finalists of the second 'Irish Nations Hair and Beauty Awards 2025'.

A host of beauty businesses operating across Derry and the North West have been listed as finalists for for the prestigious awards ceremony taking place in the Parkview Hotel in Wicklow this weekend (Sunday, August 17).

These Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of salons, stylists, and beauty professionals across Ireland who have consistently demonstrated excellence across the industry.

Honouring those businesses that have garnered the most nominations over recent years in Oceanic Awards various hair and beauty sector-based awards across Ireland and Northern Ireland, this prestigious event highlights the best in talent, creativity, and customer service.

Oceanic Awards finalists are selected in a few different ways. There is no fee and anyone can enter as long they fit the criteria of the awards including being operational for a minimum of 12 months.

Nominations opened to the public via online platforms and social media, allowing customers and communities to put forward the establishments they love most.

Many finalists run their own successful campaigns to rally support, proof of the strong community ties behind these businesses.

Alongside these public submissions, the team at Oceanic Awards draw on their industry knowledge to directly recognise standout businesses and individuals who exemplify excellence in their field. Voting will remain open until one week prior to the event.

The winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony to take place on the 17th of August at The Parkview Hotel.

A Spokesperson for The 2nd Irish Nations Hair and Beauty Awards 2025 said: These awards have provided an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and innovation of talented individuals and businesses in the industry.

"We want to congratulate all of our finalists and wish them the best of luck.

READ NEXT: Derry businesses announced as 'Grow with ALDI' finalists

The businesses from Derry and the North West who have been announced as finalists for the second Irish Nations Hair and Beauty Awards 2025 are:

Beauty Salon of the Year - Kat B Nails (Derry) and Natural Beauty Clinic (Derry).

Hair Salon of the Year - Habitat Hair (Moneymore); AMT Hair & Extensions (Maghera); and The Hair Studio Curl Specialist (Derry).

Hair & Beauty Salon of the Year - Nicole Cassidy Hair (Magherafelt) and Allure Beauty & Cosmetics (Coleraine).

Massage Specialists of the Year - Serendipity Holistic Healing Therapies (Dungiven)

Semi / Permanent Make Up Salon of the Year - AC Cosmetics (Coleraine).

Brow and Lash Salon of the Year - Ciaras Brows & Lashes (Derry).
Influencer: Amanda McMichael

Tik Tok: @amanda.mcmichael (12.8k followers)

Instagram: @amandamcmichael_ (2k followers)

Local businesswoman and TikToker Amanda McMichael talks to Aoife McManus about how she got started in the industry, her inspirations, what it takes to make it in the influencer world and her favourite looks of the year

Q. Tell me a bit about how and why you got started in the industry?

Ive always had a creative side to me but growing up I never knew how or what to channel that creativity into. I followed the stereotypical path of life, doing A Levels and going to university but I knew that wasnt the right path for me. With a lot of encouragement and reassurance from my mum, I left university after 2 years as I was so unhappy. I always had a desire for makeup and beauty so I decided to take the plunge and trained to become a fully qualified makeup artist and beautician. At the age of 20 I started my own business Blush Beauty by Amanda and Im now extremely grateful to have a busy salon and amazing clients. I used to do makeup tutorials on my Instagram but as of last year I decided to post on TikTok. This then escalated from get ready with mes, to sharing my outfits to now vlogging daily everyday life which I absolutely love. I feel between my job and through TikTok videos Ive found my creative outlet and Im so grateful.

Q. What does Fashion mean to you? Who inspires you?

Personally I think fashion means wearing whatever makes you feel confident. I always try to live by the mantra if you look good, you feel good. When Im unsure of an outfit my deciding factor is always do I feel good in it? Thats the most important thing to me.

I love to follow local girls and theres so many whose style I love, one being Jane McDermott. Honestly from her holiday outfits, wedding guest dresses and even how she styles everyday outfits Im obsessed. Another local girl who I love to follow is Melissa Ridell. Her style is so timeless I feel like she has mastered the art of a capsule wardrobe (which I definitely havent).

Q. Have you worked with any brands and who is your favourite to work with?

Ive been really grateful to collaborate with a number of brands over time. The biggest one being e.l.f. cosmetics which was a dream come true for me. However, local brands do have my heart. Ive collaborated with Unaltered whose ethos is empowering and uplifting women which has given me even more admiration for the brand. I also work with Dylan Oaks, their attention to detail and thoughtfulness sets them apart. Theres hardly a day Im not wearing one of their necklaces, and honestly thats the best testament to how much I adore their pieces. Speaking of jewellery I have to mention Confetti by J/A. I recently had the chance to work with them on a shoot featuring their beautiful pieces, everything about their brand is so aesthetic. As with Dylan Oaks, I love how theyre collaborating with local small creators to showcase their brand  it really feels like being part of such a supportive, creative community.

Then finally, they may not be a fashion brand, but working with The Fitzwilliam Hotel is a collaboration I wont forget anytime soon. Ive been lucky enough to work with them twice  real pinch-me moments. They make you feel genuinely special, and its always a pleasure to work with their team.

Q. What trends are you excited about at the minute?

I'm so excited that statement accessories are making a comeback  especially charm necklaces! Ive already stocked up for my summer holidays, along with crochet handbags embellished with fun patch designs like palm trees, seashells, and all things tropical. Embellishment is definitely the way to my heart, it just makes everything feel that little bit more special and unique. Personally, I love all things girly so if a trend fits my vibe Im all for it but if its not me, I wont follow it just for the sake of it. Ive recently seen that polka dots are making a comeback, which I think is so cute!

Q. What skills do you think you need to be a successful influencer? What would you tell someone who is thinking of doing it?

I would say Im a long way away from being a successful influencer or even just an influencer at that, but from what following I have gained I would say the most important thing is to just be yourself. Let your personality shine through because no one else is you and thats what makes you special. Consistency is also definitely key which is something Im still working on so I could do with taking my own advice on that.

To anyone thinking of doing it I would say 100% do it. Post what makes you happy, not just what you think will be approved by others, the more authentically you show up the more you attract the right audience and the right people for you. Before starting TikTok I would never have imagined the opportunities that I have been given so far. As the saying goes - post the silly little video, you never know where it could take you.

Q. What do you love the most about what you do?

There are so many things I love about what I do, but when someone says I love watching your TikToks it makes my whole day. Knowing that a video helped someone or that they loved a product I recommended means the world. It sounds so silly but I actually love editing and putting videos together, it allows me to be creative in my own way.

Lately, one of my favourite things has been meeting some of the loveliest local creators, girls Ive loved watching and felt like I already partly knew through their content. I feel incredibly lucky to have been invited to events like the Girls Groupchat Podcast launch party and more recently, the Revive Fashion Fest. I met so many lovely girls Ive followed for ages and finally got to see in person. Being around like-minded people you genuinely connect with is such a special feeling. Tiktok has opened the door to connecting with so many people I never wouldve met otherwise, and I honestly think thats amazing.

Working with brands is also something Ill never take for granted, the fact that anyone wants to send something to little old me still blows my mind. Im just so grateful

Q. Have you encountered any drawbacks or is it all positive?

Thankfully, its been mostly positive and the few downsides have been pretty small in the grand scheme of things. You can definitely feel a lot of pressure to be constantly posting or creating content but Ive learned to remind myself that its really not a big deal if I take a break or dont post all the time. Working full time means I have to be mindful of balance, especially with how much time I spend editing videos. Its all about doing what feels sustainable and not burning out over something thats meant to be fun and creative. Its easy to get in your own head. I think Ive experienced a lot of imposter syndrome at times, comparing myself to others and wondering why these amazing brands or people would want to work with me. But the whole journey has taught me to believe in myself a little more and its really helped build my confidence.

Amandas top 3 favourite outfits:

Look 1 : This is my favourite dress that I wore in my favourite place - Dubai. Im such a magpie when it comes to anything that sparkles and when I saw this Meshki dress I knew I had to have it. I remember feeling so confident wearing it. Its definitely not something Id wear at home, which is why I love holiday outfits, it gives you the confidence to wear what you want and not worry because you dont know anyone there anyway!

Look 2: This House of CB dress I wore to a wedding is the epitome of girly, I thought it was so cute. It made me feel really feminine and if you know me, youll know that pink is my favourite colour ever. Plus, the quality of House of CB dresses is truly unmatched.

Look 3: Finally, Id say this is one of my favourite tops ever. Partly because its what I wore to the Girls Group chat launch party where I had the best time but honestly Ive never had so many compliments! As I said earlier I love anything embellished as it makes the piece stand out and that little bit more special. An easy way to be dressy without having to try too hard.
On the 76th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions around 100 protesters joined the "No more F-35s!" protest outside Moyola Precision Engineering.

The event, which took place last night (Tuesday, August 12) in Castledawson, was organised by the Mid Ulster Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign (Mid Ulster IPSC) and Derry IPSC.

Speakers included Saoirse ONeill and Marlene Bovill Ni Bhrolchain from the Mid Ulster IPSC, Stephen Devlin father of Jordan Devlin of the Filton 24, and Goretti Horgan of the Raytheon 9, Roan Ellis-O'Neill from ActNow and Annie Ward from the Bloody Sunday March Committee, who ended the protest with an incredibly moving poem.

"Israel has been using F-35 fighter jets to carpet bomb a population imprisoned in an area almost five times smaller than Mid Ulster, yet with 15x the population. Today is the 76th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, international treaties that contain 'red lines', the most important rules limiting the barbarity of war. But today, as we speak, every single one of these 'red lines' are being crossed in Gaza," Saoirse O'Neill, MUIPSC spokesperson said at the protest.

"15% of every single F-35 comes from the UK. That includes key components manufactured right here! Our public money is being used to fund this. Through InvestNI nearly 20 million has been handed to four companies in the North that supply parts for the F-35 program. Moyola Precision Engineering received over 5.6 million from Invest NI over the yearsincluding as recently as last year.

"This is not an accident. Moyola is ITAR-compliant. That means nothing leaves this factory without the knowledge and approval of the US government. It also means these parts are intended for use in weapons systems like the F-35. What I have seen is Invest NI claim theyre not funding arms to Israel, because they define arms only as finished weapons. But they should know that international law doesnt work like that. If you supply a component knowing its going to be used in a weapon - especially one involved in a conflict where war crimes are alleged - you are complicit. And under international humanitarian law, that matters."

Goretti Horgan of the Raytheon 9 and Derry IPSC said: All of these companies are being funded by us, and Stormont is responsible for that. So if you're angry, wondering what you can do, go to your local politician's office with some placards, and ask them what they are doing! While sick and disabled people, and children have their services cut down, our taxpayer money is going to factories creating genocide parts killing the children of Palestine."

Speaking after the rally, MUIPSC spokesperson Padraig MacNiocaill said: "Following numerous protests, including one in July which caused the factory to also close for several hours, Moyola Precision Engineering removed references to F-35 part manufacture from their website in the past week. This is a shocking attempt to hide what Moyola is producing, and is a sign that the pressure is working. Today, once again we heard the sound of machinery go silent for several hours, and until Moyola announce that they no longer produce parts that could go to F-35s, that's the way it should be. We do not want parts for warplanes bombing children made in Mid Ulster. The weight of the anti-genocide movement and international law will remain on Moyola until they fully divest."
Causeway Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of the Causeway Coast & Glens Business Awards 2025, marking a major milestone in recognising and celebrating the outstanding achievements of the local business community.

First established in 2005, the awards have become a hallmark of excellence in the region. Now celebrating their 20th anniversary, the 2025 edition will take place on Thursday, November 13 at The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine, and is set to be one of the most inspiring and high-profile events in the regions business calendar.

Held bi-annually, the awards continue to showcase the innovation, resilience, and success of enterprises across the Causeway Coast & Glens. From start-ups to long-established companies, the awards provide a platform for all sectors and sizes of business to be recognised for their contribution to the local economy and wider society.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glen, Councillor Oliver McMullan who attended the launch event said: We have a wealth of talented people and businesses offering world class and innovative products and services which we should all be very proud of, and these awards represent business excellence across our Council area.

On this the 20th anniversary of the awards I would encourage leaders, workers and businesses across Causeway Coast and Glens to put themselves forward for each of the categories.

The 2025 awards, proudly sponsored by Randox Health, will feature 20 refreshed award categories, designed to reflect the evolving business landscape and the broad range of talent and ambition across the region. Entry is completely free and open to all eligible businesses operating within the Borough.

Causeway Chamber President, James Kilgore, said the awards are not just a celebration of achievement, but a powerful reminder of the hard work, creativity, and community impact demonstrated by businesses throughout the region.

This years awards are particularly special as we reflect on two decades of business excellence in Causeway Coast & Glens. We are immensely proud of our diverse and ambitious business community and look forward to showcasing their success on this milestone occasion. Whether you are a local trader or a global exporter, these awards are for you.

James encouraged all eligible businesses to take part in this years event by entering a category that reflects their strengths, and to come together on November 13 to honour both past achievements and the future of business in the region.

As lead sponsor, Randox Health expressed its strong support for the awards: We are delighted to support the Causeway Coast & Glens Business Awards in this landmark 20th year. Randox is committed to advancing innovation, performance, and positive societal impact  values that align closely with the purpose of these awards. Its an honour to help celebrate the businesses driving growth and excellence across the Borough.

Entry is now open.

Businesses across all sectors are invited to submit entries in categories ranging from innovation and sustainability to tourism, community impact, and business growth.

For more information, category details, and entry forms, visit Causeway Chamber

Entry deadline: Friday, September 26

Awards Gala: Thursday, November 13, The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine
Explore your options this August and secure your future in further education.

With A Level, GCSE and BTEC results just around the corner, thousands of young people and their parents or guardians are facing big decisions about what to do next and where to go.

Faced with so many options, the process can feel overwhelming. Thats why its important to explore and understand all the choices in order to make a well-informed decision.

Northern Regional College offers a wide range of full-time and part-time vocational, technical and professional courses across its four campuses: Coleraine, Magherafelt, Newtownabbey and the brand-new Ballymena Campus, opening this September for the 2025/26 academic year. From entry level through to university-level qualifications, its a place where you can build real skills for the future in a supportive and dynamic learning environment.

One student who has excelled during her time at the College is Georgia Archibald from Draperstown, a Level 3 Computing/IT student who recently won Highest Achieving Student at the Colleges Student Recognition Awards.

Finishing her studies with an impressive triple distinction, Georgia has demonstrated unwavering commitment, intelligence and a real passion for learning. Shes not only excelled academically but has also made a positive impact across the college community through leadership and teamwork.

Georgia said: Ive loved my time at Northern Regional College. The support from tutors and the structure of the course really helped me thrive. Its given me the confidence to aim high and believe in my abilities.

Her achievements are especially meaningful in a field where women are often underrepresented.

Georgia added: Being a young woman in the IT industry can feel daunting but this course and the College environment showed me that I belong here. I hope my journey can encourage more girls to follow their passion for tech.

Georgia also completed a two-week work placement at a local IT company, gaining valuable hands-on experience and practical skills to complement her academic success.

She added: The placement really opened my eyes to what a career in IT looks like. It helped me connect everything Id learned in the classroom to the real world. I feel much more prepared for my next step.

Looking ahead, Georgia is excited to continue her journey in the tech industry. She has recently secured a prestigious apprenticeship opportunity with software company Nitec and will begin a Higher-Level Apprenticeship in Cloud Computing with Cyber Security at the College this September.

This is a fantastic next step for me, she said. I cant wait to keep learning and growing in a field Im passionate about.

Whether your results dont turn out exactly how you expected or youre rethinking your next move, Northern Regional College has a wide variety of options to help you move forward.

From apprenticeships and traineeships to university-level qualifications, theres something to suit everyone. Visit nrc.ac.uk to explore courses and follow the simple instructions on enrolling online from the comfort of your own home to secure your place on a course starting in September.

If you would like to discuss your application, available course options or require assistance with enrolling online, visit your local campus  Coleraine, Magherafelt, Newtownabbey or the new Ballymena campus - during enrolment days. The College will be open for enrolment between 9.30am to 3.30pm on A-Level and GCSE results days, Thursday 14 August and Thursday 21 August respectively, where staff will be on hand to guide you through your options and support you with the enrolment process.
The Chancellor does not genuinely get Northern Irelands exposure to inheritance tax changes for farmers, the deputy First Minister has said.

Rachel Reeves has defended plans to proceed with tax changes for inherited agricultural assets from April next year.

Farmers in Northern Ireland have said they will be disproportionately affected by the changes.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said she discussed the impact of the changes with Ms Reeves in a meeting on Tuesday.

Speaking to BBC Radio Ulsters Evening Extra on Wednesday, Ms Little-Pengelly said: I dont think she genuinely gets it. And if she does, she certainly isnt explaining in any logical way why she is continuing to back that.

Because, of course, from a farming perspective, the farm is a necessity for carrying on the business.

So therefore, if youre passing your farm from one generation to another, that farm is required in order to carry on that business, and yet that tax could make the sustainability of that difficult.

It could make the size of that farm, and the ability to farm to the extent it was being farmed, not possible for the next generation, and indeed, to put off the next generation.

Ms Little-Pengelly said she did not see any benefit to the proposed changes.

Those are the types of points that we raised to her in great detail. Im disappointed by the remarks that she made about that, but that will not stop us from continuing to emphasise and to raise these points, because I think thats very much what our role is, to champion these issues, to highlight these issues.

More broadly, she said the Chancellor was facing a difficult fiscal position and added: I dont get the sense that theres any good news coming any time soon.

But of course, she does have the ability to do certain things to support growth in our economy, to support us in what were trying to achieve here in Northern Ireland.
Google has rolled out a new feature called Preferred Sources, enabling users to customise and prioritise content from their favourite websites in search results. The search engine giant, in its official blog post, announced that the feature lets users add preferred news outlets and blogs, which will then appear in the users Google Searchs Top Stories section.

With Preferred Sources, Google will also group content from those outlets into a new From your sources section right within search results. Google says the feature aims to provide users with a more personalised and relevant news experience, ensuring trusted outlets are at the front and centre when searching for timely topics.

The feature, tested since June, is now available to users in India and the United States. Google is rolling out the update gradually; it may take a few days before it appears for all accounts.

How to set preferred sources in Google search?

Search for a news-related topic in Google. In the Top Stories section, click the icon located to the right of the headline bar. An overlay will open, allowing you to search for and select your desired publications or news outlets. After selecting, click the Reload results button at the bottom of the overlay.

Also read: Apple iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max get massive price cuts in Flipkart Independence Day sale: How to grab

Once done, stories from your chosen outlets will appear more often in Top Stories and in the dedicated From your sources section. Notably, users will still receive articles from other publishers, and selections can be changed or removed at any time.

Google says the move aims to make Search more useful and trustworthy by giving people control over the sources they see most often. The company said that the Preferred Sources feature will be useful for those who rely on specific outlets to consume information, particularly during breaking news events.
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.
Samsung Display debuts MONT FLEX brand, showcases enhanced durability and reduced creases in foldable panels

Samsung Display (SDC) recently launched its foldable panel brand, MONT FLEX, at the K-Display 2025, marking an ongoing effort in foldable display innovation. Despite progress, Samsung Display acknowledged that the technology is not yet a finished product.

The new brand aims to distinguish Samsung Display's foldable technology from competitors while highlighting continued advancements. The name "MONT," derived from the French word for "mountain," symbolizes the company's aspiration to reach the forefront of foldable display development.

Samsung Display emphasized the durability of its foldable panels, which can endure 500,000 folds at room temperature and maintain functionality after 60,000 folds at minus 20 degrees Celsius. This durability was demonstrated at the exhibition by repeatedly folding a phone inside a refrigerator with a sub-zero environment.

A key improvement in the MONT FLEX panels is the significant reduction in crease visibility by more than 30%, achieved through ultra-thin flexible glass technology. This enhancement results in smoother screen appearances and is supported by proprietary technologies, including the polarizer-free LEAD. These advancements have been incorporated in Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Fold7 smartphone.

Beyond smartphones, Samsung Display is expanding foldable technology applications to other sectors such as IT and gaming. Collaboration with Lenovo Group produced a foldable notebook prototype, the Lenovo Outfold. This addresses the trade-off between large screen demand and portability by providing foldable or extendable panels that keep devices lightweight and compact.

At the event, Samsung Display also presented a handheld gaming device featuring a foldable left-right design. Although not yet in mass production, this device demonstrates the potential for larger gaming displays in slimmer, more portable formats.

The foldable smartphone panel market currently ships approximately 90 million units globally. According to Samsung Display, the sector remains in the early growth phase, with broader adoption of foldable, rollable, and extendable panels expected to influence future IT, automotive, and other industries.

Article edited by Jack Wu
Samsung, SK Hynix eye HBM boost as Nvidia gets China AI chip approval, 15% tariff threatens margins

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are poised to benefit from Washington's reported decision to allow Nvidia to resume exports of its lower-tier H20 artificial intelligence chips to China, which contain the South Korean companies' high-bandwidth memory (HBM) components.

15% US revenue levy raises profitability concerns

Yet the relief is tempered by concerns over profitability after Nvidia and rival Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay the US government 15% of their China-derived semiconductor revenue in exchange for export licenses. Industry executives in Seoul warn that such costs could cascade down the supply chain, pressuring prices for Korean suppliers.

Bloomberg and Reuters, citing the Financial Times, said the Trump administration reached a deal with Nvidia and AMD to reopen the Chinese market for certain AI chips. The decision could boost sales for HBM suppliers but also introduces a fresh challenge.

South Korean memory makers eye gains from rising HBM demand

Samsung is understood to be the primary supplier of fourth-generation HBM3 for the H20, while SK Hynix began providing its fifth-generation HBM3E for the model in early 2025. With Samsung's HBM3E still awaiting Nvidia's quality certification, its HBM3 shipments remain strategically vital. According to Aju Business Daily, demand for the H20 from Chinese companies such as ByteDance and Tencent is climbing, likely driving higher HBM volumes.

The 15% revenue remittance will inevitably erode margins for US chipmakers and could be passed along to component suppliers. Some Korean industry sources say the net effect will depend on whether expanded HBM sales can offset potential price cuts.

Market watchers note that Samsung may be offering HBM3 for the H20 at below prevailing market rates, while SK Hynix could sharply increase prices for its 12-layer stack products. Bernstein estimates Nvidia could ship about 1.5 million H20 units to China in 2025, generating roughly US$23 billion in revenue. Given that HBM prices are often set through contracts, analysts say securing market share may ultimately matter more than near-term pricing concessions.

Article edited by Jack Wu
The National Parks and Wildlife Service has today (Wednesday August 13) confirmed a recent sighting and subsequent capture of an Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina) in the Cork area marking a biosecurity alert for Ireland.

Asian Hornets pose a significant threat to biodiversity in Ireland as even a single nest can devastate honeybee populations. The discovery of an Asian Hornet does not pose a significant public health risk.

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The sighting has triggered a government led response with the establishment of a new taskforce. The Asian Hornet Management Group (AHMG) chaired by the NPWS includes the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, the National Biodiversity Data Centre and the National Museum of Ireland and will co-ordinate efforts, gather further information and monitor the situation over the coming weeks.

Speaking about the incident, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher OSullivan TD said:

Asian Hornets are a threat to our native pollinators and our biodiversity. We must take even a single sighting very seriously.

NPWS responded quickly to this report, with a team of experts rapidly tasked to monitor and survey the area. One individual was captured and a co-ordinated response is now underway through a new cross government taskforce who will continue to monitor the situation. We are also very grateful for the support of beekeepers and their associations in this endeavour.

This incident shows us that members of the public are our eyes on the ground. Early detection is key if we are to prevent the establishment of this invasive species. I urge everyone to be vigilant and inform themselves so that they can recognise and report any sightings of the Asian Hornet to help us contain this invasive species and protect our biodiversity."

The sighting was reported to the National Biodiversity Data Centres website https://records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives by a member of the public.

READ NEXT: REVEALED: Location of Ireland's first Taco Bell confirmed with more to follow soon

A photograph was included, which was confirmed as an Asian Hornet by entomologists at both the National Museum of Ireland and NPWS, triggering a rapid response protocol. A survey team was quickly deployed and extensive monitoring and surveying conducted.

No evidence of a hornet nest or any other hornet activity was initially observed, however subsequent surveillance led to the trapping of an Asian Hornet on 12th August. Extensive monitoring will continue over the coming weeks to determine if this is one individual or if there is evidence of a larger population. .

The survey team has engaged extensively with businesses, local communities and stakeholders in the area to raise awareness on how to identify Asian Hornet. Beekeeping associations have been briefed and are playing their part.

This sighting is the second verified identification of this invasive species in Ireland. The first identification was of a single individual from Dublin area during 2021 and was not associated with a wild viable population.

Members of the public are being asked to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings through the National Biodiversity Data Centres Alien Watch reporting portal at https://records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives.

If you suspect you have spotted an Asian Hornet, do not attempt to disturb or capture the hornet. While not generally aggressive, it may sting if provoked. Any photographs, location coordinates, or samples (if safe to collect post-mortem) are extremely valuable to the response team.

READ NEXT: ALERT! Irish supermarkets forced to recall popular cheese amid listeria fear

It is important to note that Asian Hornet can be easily confused with native species such as the giant woodwasp, the dark giant horsefly, and the common wasp.

The Asian Hornet was first identified in Europe in Lot-et-Garonne in the South West of France in 2004. It was thought to have been imported in a consignment of pottery from China and quickly established and spread to many regions of France.

Since then, the Asian Hornet has now spread to and established in several EU countries. There are also ongoing control efforts in the UK to prevent this species from establishing there. A population of Asian hornet has also been recorded in the United States.

Ainle Ni Bhriain, Director, EU and International Affairs, NPWS said:

NPWS and our partners have acted quickly to investigate the reported sighting of this species. An effective rapid response and public awareness is key to our approach.

NPWS, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the National Biodiversity Data Centre, is working together to address the threat posed by Asian Hornet, which will help ensure that the island of Ireland is prepared in the event of an increased threat.
Broadcaster and author Marty Morrissey has paid tribute to the angels in Irelands hospices, as he encouraged everyone to get behind a major national fundraiser supporting them.

The Gaelic games broadcaster said on Wednesday he is conscious of his own mortality and would like to receive hospice care in his final days, having witnessed it first-hand.

He was speaking as ambassador for Bewleys Big Coffee Morning for Hospice, the annual charity partnership which has raised 47.6 million euro for hospice care since 1992.

Together For Hospice represents #24Hospices nationwide who come together to fundraise on campaigns such as Hospice Sunflower Days and Bewley's Big Coffee Morning for Hospice. Fundraised income is used by local hospice services to fund new buildings, refurbishment of existing pic.twitter.com/SX9DjTaFzb  Together For Hospice (@TogetherHospice) August 5, 2025

The fundraiser, organised by Together for Hospice, takes place nationwide on September 25.

My lust for life is as strong today as it was when I was 22 or 23, the RTE commentator said.

But as you get older, youre far more conscious of getting blood tests done, dreading the results but hoping everything is fine.

It is the circle of life, all we can do is hope that we can put it (death) off for as long as we can.

Im in no rush to get to the other side.

Morrissey said he personally witnessed the compassion shown by hospice staff when relatives received palliative care in the past.

I thought it was amazing. Anyone who has visited a loved one in a hospice will be aware of the serenity, peace and joy  the good feeling that a loved one is being really well minded, he added.

The work being done by nurses and care staff is truly incredible, they are a gift from God, they are angels.

If I was heading into my final days, I would like that for myself and for my family.

What Im trying to do as ambassador, in a very small way, is to support the people who do it, and I am urging everyone to go to hospicecoffeemorning.ie and get involved.

Dr Sarah McCloskey, chairperson of Together for Hospice, at the National Hospice Movement, said: Bewleys Big Coffee Morning for Hospice, one of our longest and most-loved fundraisers, is now in its 33rd year raising funds for Hospice in-patient and community services around Ireland.

Right across Ireland, we are asking everyone to celebrate our countless coffee morning hosts, who give so selflessly of their time and energy in their local communities.

It takes a community to ensure care for all! The hospice community is certainly a special one. Anyone who has experienced hospice care, either themselves or by extension through a family member or loved one knows how dedicated the staff are not only to bringing comfort and pic.twitter.com/9dx0DmelQl  Together For Hospice (@TogetherHospice) August 12, 2025

This support is invaluable and funds vital services and quality initiatives, greatly improving care for patients with life-limiting illness.

Col Campbell of Bewleys Ireland said the company is honoured to again support the event, recognised as the countrys most successful charity partnership.

Bewleys, an iconic Irish brand, was founded on the strong principle of caring for people and communities, which ties in perfectly with the ethos of Together For Hospice.

We encourage everyone to host or attend a coffee morning, wherever they are in Ireland, to help support the incredible work that hospices nationwide carry out every day.

Register to host a coffee morning on Thursday, September 25  or a date that suits  at hospicecoffeemorning.ie or call 0818 995 996.

Those who cannot host or attend a coffee morning, are asked to donate at hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate
What race takes around 21 seconds to run and carries a first prize of 20,000? The answer will come quickly to greyhound racing enthusiasts.

Its the final of the Bar One Racing Irish Sprint Cup, this years running of takes place on Friday night next at Dundalk Stadium. Its over 400 yards.

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Yes, they go very fast, those longtailed livewires, the swiftest of them over 40 mph. A race between one of them and a cheetah could well produce a photo-finish, thats if the cheetah hadnt eaten his opponent along the way.

The hound is at his fastest over a straight course; on Friday, the six runners contesting the final will have two bends to negotiate. Getting to the first of them in front can have its reward.

The first corner is where the majority of the field come together. Whichever of them turns left in front nearly always triumphs, especially in a race of this calibre.

Thats a dilemma facing punters as they search for the winner  which of the sextet is likely to have the call at this crucial point.

If they can establish that, then theres a good chance therell be up to Mickey Rooneys pitch afterwards, exchanging a docket for cash.

Semi-final running would suggest it will be Broadstrand Syd. The title-holder left the traps like the proverbial scaled cat in the second of the semi-finals, and was never headed.

However, his lead was being diminished rapidly going to the line, suggesting a campaign that has seen him transported from Cork on four occasions so far, might be taken its toll.

That said, the John A. Linehan-trained runner has been supreme at the track. He went through last years competition unbeaten, and if successful on Friday, will keep his record intact, and so become the second to win this Classic twice.

(Ardnasool Jet was the first.) His overall record speaks volumes  14 wins from twenty outings, and only thrice outside the first two.Broadstrand will wear the white sheet, as he did in the semis, and wont be inconvenienced.

Droopys Patriot also goes into the final with an unbeaten record, and is sure to have many followers. Robert Gleesons charge is another with an impressive career record, six wins from eight outings.

Stonepark Browne was a fast-finishing runner-up to Broadstrand, winning from the unfavourable trap one. He goes from trap four, and in the words of a famous politician, could upset the apple tart.

Its a classy line-up, one of the best in the 21-year history of the event. Most of the countrys top trainers have a runner, Linehan, Gleeson, Liam Dowling, Pat Buckley, Patrick Guilfoyle and Michael J ODonovan.

The race features on a card that has a number of other finals, and the dogs will be the second segment on a day-long programme at the track, horseracing having the call in the afternoon.
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The Louth branch of the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC) are set to welcome the display of a 40m long quilt marking 23,000 children killed in Gaza, which will be displayed at the Market Square in Dundalk on Wednesday, August 20th at 7pm.

Created by Craftivism for Palestine, the Granny Squares for Gaza quilt was made by a collective of women and allies from all 32 counties and further afield.

Each of the quilts 2,300 hand-crocheted squares, stretching more than 40 metres in length, represents ten children killed by Israel in Palestine since October 2023. That is 23,000 children killed by genocide, a Louth IPSC spokesperson explained.

Louth IPSC have urged that the people of Louth come out on Wednesday 20th August and call out the ongoing genocide and deliberate starvation of Palestinians in Gaza by Israel and show that Louth stands firmly for justice and humanity.

Bring your flags, banners, placards and voices, a spokesperson for the Louth IPSC said.

We all have a responsibility to keep what is happening in Gaza in the public eye and show

our unwavering solidarity.

Do not stay silent. Stand up. Speak out. Be counted.
National Heritage Week kicks off this Saturday August 16th, and is on track to feature a record number of events across the island of Ireland, including in Louth

The theme of Heritage Week this year is Exploring Our Foundations, inviting members of the public to delve into the building blocks of our heritage; not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped us. Events will be held in every county across the island of Ireland spanning built, cultural and natural heritage, many of them free to attend and suitable for all ages.

A full schedule of events taking place in Louth can be found here . Speaking about events in Louth this year, Louth County Council Heritage officer Brendan McSherry, said; National Heritage Week 2025 in County Louth is a chance to reconnect with the stories, skills, and landscapes that have shaped and continue to shape our communities. From walking the medieval walls of Drogheda to exploring the grounds of Bellews Castle or the gardens of Killineer House, this years events invite us to reflect on our shared past.

"There are opportunities to explore Ardees photographic history, learn about currachs and coracles, hear traditional music in Carlingford, or try your hand at spinning wool in the Cooley Peninsula. Natural heritage plays an important role too, with events highlighting biodiversity, climate change, and the importance of our native species. "A special dawn chorus walk with ornithologist and wildlife sound recordist Sean Ronayne offers a moment to pause and listen to the songs all around us. Whether you're drawn to historic artefacts, local crafts, community-led conservation, or simply a quiet stroll through a story-rich landscape theres something in Louth this Heritage Week to inspire curiosity and connection to the heritage weve inherited.

This years celebration is particularly significant, marking 30 years since the establishment of The Heritage Council and 20 years since it took responsibility for coordinating National Heritage Week.

With support from partners such as the OPW, Failte Ireland, the Irish Landmark Trust and the Local Authority Waters Programme, National Heritage Week has grown to be the largest nationwide celebration of heritage annually. Twenty years ago, in 2005 there were 260 events, and last year there were more than 2,300 events. Awareness about the importance of protecting heritage has increased significantly during this time, with research commissioned by The Heritage Council showing an increase from 46% in 1999 to 68% in 2023.

Heritage Open Doors, which has been running in Cork for the last 20 years, has been extended across the island of Ireland this year for the first time. On Saturday August 16th and Sunday August 17th, the initiative will provide a rare opportunity to access buildings not normally open to the public, including private homes, civic and public buildings including courthouses, religious buildings and commercial buildings.

While the majority of events are suitable for all ages and family friendly, Wild Child Day takes place on August 23rd, with a special focus on events designed to encourage kids and families to explore the heritage in their locality and beyond. Water Heritage Day takes place on August 24th, in partnership with Local Authority Waters Programme, celebrating water throughout Ireland, its history and heritage and our connections with it.

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with special responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher OSullivan TD, said; National Heritage Week is a true celebration of what connects us  to each other, to our communities, and to our past.

"Its a festival that brings Irelands heritage to life in all its rich variety  from biodiversity to buildings, from oral traditions to waterways  and invites people of every age and background to take part. As Minister for Nature, Biodiversity and Heritage, Im proud to support an initiative that continues to grow year on year, and I encourage everyone to explore their foundations by joining one of the thousands of events happening across the island this week.

Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of The Heritage Council said; This is a special year for The Heritage Council as we celebrate 20 years coordinating National Heritage Week, as well as 30 years since our establishment. Its heartening to see the importance of heritage embraced more broadly and enthusiastically each year. It plays such a fundamental role in our social, environmental & economic well-being.

"Our heritage is something that we share with our ancestors as well as future generations. Its what makes us special, and its also something that is evolving all the time, as Ireland is. Its a precious connection with where we live, and with each other.

The dedication of organisations, voluntary groups and individuals in every county, together with the network of Heritage Officers in the local authorities, is what makes this national celebration so special and such a success every year and we encourage everyone to get involved, and to explore their foundations in some of the fascinating activities planned throughout the week, she said.
This summer, the H2O Heroes team at DkIT delivered the United Youth Initiative (UYI) summer camps, welcoming over 350 young people across six vibrant weeks of activities in Virginia, Co. Cavan and on the DkIT campus.

Funded by the PEACEPLUS programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body - SEUPB, the initiative is delivered in partnership with Healthy Kidz, Peace Players, the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Ireland and DkIT.

The camps provided free access to a dynamic mix of sports, science, art, and environmental education.

The initiative aimed to build confidence, promote positive relationships, and foster cross-community connections among participants from Northern Ireland and the border counties.

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Running in early and late July, all camps were fully booked, highlighting the strong demand for inclusive, educational, and engaging youth programmes.

DkIT said it was delighted to support such a meaningful project that aligns with its commitment to community development and outreach.

UYI will be rolling out 12-week after school and youth programmes from September.

Caroline Gilleran Stephens Lecturer in Environmental Biotechnology and H20 Heroes Co-ordinator at DkIT said: It was fantastic to host so many young people in both Virginia and Dundalk and watch their confidence and friendships grow throughout the duration of the different camps.

"The participants were so enthusiastic and their positive attitudes towards learning more about the environment and encouraging one another were infectious.

"A huge thank you to our camp co-ordinators, parents and of course our young people, the success of this initiative wouldnt have been possible without you.
Louth County Council has said that it has reached agreement with the operator of the Blackrock Funfair regarding its operation during this year's Blackrock Summer Festival.

The local authority said in a statement today that: "Following a legal hearing on Tuesday, 12th August, Louth County Council reached agreement with K Allen & Sons Ltd regarding the operation of the Blackrock Funfair.

"The agreement provides Louth County Council with the protection of the Courts to ensure full compliance with the terms of the licence.

"Under the agreed terms, the festival organisers will operate in a limited capacity, will be fully responsible for all clean-up obligations, have clarified and confirmed insurance and indemnities, and must maintain access for council and emergency services.

"Over the next five days, Louth County Council will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all conditions are met."

The organiser of the Blackrock Funfair, Killian Allen, had feared for the future of the funfair, due to calls for it to be reduced to three days. In a petition he began to raise support for the funfair to be allowed run its planned duration, Mr Allen said that they had reduced their stay in Blackrock from 14 days to 9 in good faith, to address local concerns.

Mr Allen had said in his petition, that the funfair is "fully compliant with all legal requirements and contributes positively to the local economy, culture, and family life. Despite this, pressure from a small number of individualswho do not represent the wider communitynow threatens our ability to operate in Blackrock and to secure a location in Carlingford.

He added that "We have already reduced our stay in Blackrock from 14 days to 9 in good faith, to address local concerns. But further restrictions would be unfair, especially given that:
The 2025 Grow with ALDI finalists have been announced following a nationwide search for Irelands most talented and innovative suppliers in the food and drink industry, with a Louth business making this year's final. 30 ambitious suppliers from across Ireland have earned their spot to showcase their products in 164 ALDI stores nationwide.

Dundalk business, Kookee, is the Louth supplier to make this year's final, and will have their products go on sale in all ALDI stores nationwide for a two-week period starting September 11th, offering customers across the island of Ireland a chance to enjoy the taste of Louth.

Kookee offers quick and fun cookie mixes made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Bake and enjoy fresh cookies at home like a pro with flavours like Spotai Chocolate Chip or Double Chocolate Chip.

Delivered in partnership with Bord Bia, Grow with ALDI is now in its eighth year and is a leading developmental platform for Irish suppliers.

Read also: Dundalk Bay Seafoods pioneers countrys first-ever AI-powered shellfish grader

ALDI says that the programme provides invaluable industry mentorship and retail guidance, aimed at fostering the growth and sustainability of small to medium-sized Irish businesses. Since its inception in 2018, ALDI has invested over 10 million into the programme.

Speaking about the finalists of Grow with ALDI 2025 programme, Rachael OConnor, ALDI Buying Director, said: We are delighted to announce this years Grow with ALDI finalists. With 30 suppliers and 54 new products set to hit shelves, it is proof that the Irish food and drinks industry continues to thrive.

"At ALDI, were proud to champion emerging producers - offering them a national platform while bringing our customers high-quality Irish-made products. We greatly look forward to welcoming these fantastic new products into stores nationwide - our shoppers are in for a real treat!

Commenting on Grow with ALDI finalist announcement, Eimear Hurley, Global Business Development Team, Bord Bia, said: Bord Bia is proud to support the Grow with ALDI programme in its eighth year. The programme continues to champion Irish suppliers, offering them a valuable platform to showcase their products and grow in a competitive food and retail market.

"This years finalists have demonstrated exceptional quality and innovation, and I wish them every success during their trial period in ALDI stores nationwide.
A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of a priest in Co Down.

Hugh Malone, 30, of no fixed address but from the Belfast area, appeared via videolink from Musgrave police station at Newtownards Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

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The body of Mr Brannigan, 56, was found in a house in Marian Park in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon.



Stephen Brannigan died after an attack in Downpatrick on Sunday

On the same day, Father John Murray was attacked at St Patricks Church in the town.

No details of the incident were given during the brief court hearing.

Malone was wearing a grey sweatshirt and confirmed that he understood the charges against him.

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A Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) detective chief inspector told the court that she could connect Malone to the charges.

A defence solicitor asked the officer to confirm that his client had had an appropriate adult or intermediary with him during police interviews.



A church service in support of the family of Mr Brannigan and for Fr Murray was held in the town on Tuesday, lead by Bishop Alan McGuckian

The lawyer said there was a significant mental health context to the case.

No application for bail was made and deputy district judge Peter Prenter remanded Malone in custody until September 4.

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Fr John Murray is recovering in hospital after being attacked while preparing to celebrate his last mass before retirement at St Patricks Church in Downpatrick on Sunday.

A church service in support of the family of Mr Brannigan and for Fr Murray was held in the town on Tuesday.

Mr Brannigans family have described him as a beloved father and grandfather.
Tell us about your early life, Robert

I was born in Midleton, right on the Main Street, where my late parents, Billy and Theresa Walshe, ran the successful Maple Leaf pub for many years.

Growing up in East Cork during that era was incredibly rewarding. I had a very happy childhood in a tight-knit community where everyone knew your name, and your family was part of the towns fabric.

I was educated at Midleton CBS, and, alongside school life, I was deeply immersed in the towns social and business landscape.

From a young age, I served on the board of Midleton Area Tourism, became President of Junior Chamber, and was the founding Chairman of the Friends of Midleton Hospital.

I was honoured during that time to host former U.S Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, a moment that still stands out as one of my proudest.

Of course, being raised behind the bar counter in our family-run pub, I learned early on how to engage with people, deal with the public, and understand the value of community connection.

Robert Walshe now lives in Devon.

That grounding was essential - it helped hone my business instincts and shaped my future path.

Before I left Cork for Dublin, I was deeply touched to be accorded a Civic Reception by Midleton Urban District Council, a generous acknowledgment of my contributions to local life. That kind of appreciation is rare and it meant a great deal to me and my family.

My late Aunt Mary and Uncle Paddy, along with my parents and many close friends, were incredible encouragers. Their belief in me helped fuel the drive to follow my passions and build a meaningful, people-focused career.

What drew you to broadcasting, and how did your radio career begin?

I was always fascinated by broadcasting - especially radio. As a child, I would listen intently to the pirate stations broadcasting from Ballycotton, like ERI, and later to RTE Cork Local Radio.

There was something magical about the power of voice, the intimacy of radio, and its ability to inform, entertain, and connect.

Although I loved music, I felt an early pull toward speech-based programming - news, current affairs, interviews. That interest grew stronger with time.

Eventually, I got my break as part of the launch team for County Sound in Mallow, a pivotal step that opened doors to what became a truly fulfilling radio career.

From there, I joined 96FM, followed by Lite FM (now Q102) in Dublin, and later Dublins 106.8FM, now known as Sunshine Radio.

One special moment that remains close to my heart was hosting a radiothon for Joanne ORiordan on C103, alongside the late actor Oliver Reed - a day full of warmth, generosity, and real community spirit. It was one of those rare days where you truly see the best of people coming together for a cause.

Later in my career, I stepped into leadership roles, becoming General Manager and Programme Director at Sunshine. That role marked a turning point, as I began to focus more on the strategic and operational sides of broadcasting.

This led me to Sligo, where I was involved in the commercial launch of Ocean FM, while continuing to present flagship talk shows.

Eventually, my path brought me to Northern Ireland where I launched Seven FM in Ballymena. Over the next 14 years, I led several acquisitions and rebranded a network of five stations into the well-known Q Radio brand, serving as Managing Director.

It was a whirlwind chapter - full of energy, pressure, and innovation. By the time I stepped away from broadcasting in 2018, I felt a deep sense of pride in what had been achieved.

You also spent time in television - tell us about that.

Yes, I dabbled in television for a time, presenting a programme called Face To Face on Cork Multi Channel. It was a brilliant opportunity to interview well-known figures from all walks of life - from politics and business to arts and sport.

I enjoyed the experience, and I believe I did a solid job on screen, but my heart was always with radio. The spontaneity, intimacy, and immediacy of live radio always had the edge for me.

What inspired your move to England and the shift into hospitality?

After stepping away from Q Radio, I returned to my first passion - travel. Ive been fortunate to have visited more than 120 countries, and those experiences have enriched me both personally and professionally.

Travel teaches perspective, patience, and the universal value of hospitality.

Together with my partner Richard, a senior leader in hospitality and tourism originally from Belfast, we had always talked about one day owning a guest house or boutique hotel. The timing felt right, and in late 2020 - yes, during the heart of the pandemic - we moved from Belfast to Lynton in north Devon, in the heart of Exmoor National Park.

There we found Highcliffe House, a stunning Victorian guest house perched high above the Bristol Channel. The moment we walked through the door, we knew it was the one.

It was a leap of faith, but one grounded in experience - my business and media acumen paired with Richards deep understanding of hospitality was always going to be a winning combination.

Lynton and its twin town Lynmouth, are known for their water-powered cliff railway and are steeped in Victorian heritage. Their remote yet dramatic location, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, attracts thousands of visitors each year - especially during the peak season from April to October.

While launching a new chapter during a global pandemic was daunting, our timing was surprisingly fortuitous. With international travel curtailed, the domestic UK tourism market boomed, and we were inundated with bookings. From there, the business flourished, and we are now entering our fifth season.

Having both launched and driven major media and hospitality brands, we instinctively knew what was needed to elevate Highcliffe House. Our attention to detail and guest experience has paid off. Weve since received significant recognition, including:

AA/Visit England Accommodation of the Year for England (2022)

Tripadvisors Travellers Choice - Best of the Best - Top 1% in the World (every year since opening).

We operate seven days a week for seven months, and then close during the off-season-by design. This schedule gives us the best of both worlds: a rewarding business and five months off to travel and recharge.

We spend part of our winters at our holiday home in St Petersburg, Florida, before heading off on new adventures across the globe.

How is life now in north Devon?

Life in Lynton is incredibly peaceful. The landscape is dramatic, and the community is warm and welcoming.

During our downtime -usually in the afternoons - we make the most of the outdoors: walking the coast, hiking the moors, or just enjoying the sea air.

The area is rich in culture too, with local theatre, National Trust properties, beaches, and a steady flow of interesting visitors from around the world.

The Irish dimension here is strong - many guests have connections to Ireland, and being Irish is always a great conversation starter.

Robert Walshe and his sister Kathleen, who still lives in Midleton and enjoys a successful career at Cork Airport

In many ways, life in England isnt drastically different from Ireland, especially when youve already lived and worked in Northern Ireland, where the legacy of the Troubles still subtly shapes business and social life.

That experience gave me a unique understanding of the broader British culture and helped make our move to England seamless.

Travel, too, has deepened my understanding of people and cultures. Whether youre in Asia, Africa, South America, or Europe, Ive learned that, at their core, people are fundamentally the same - full of dreams, hopes, challenges, and shared humanity.

Looking back, how do you reflect on your journey so far?

I feel incredibly fortunate. My life and career have been built on the foundations of passion, people, and purpose.

Ive worked in industries I love, met extraordinary individuals, and been supported by an incredible family and circle of friends.

Im forever grateful to my late parents for instilling in me a strong work ethic, and for showing me the importance of treating everyone with respect and kindness.

My sister, who still lives in Midleton and enjoys a successful career at Cork Airport, helps keep the home fires burning. I return as often as I can.

The reopening of the Midleton to Cork railway has been transformational for the region, and I hope to see that service extended to Youghal in the future.

I still listen to my old Cork radio stations on my smart speaker, and I never miss a beat on whats happening back home. I even get my Barrys Tea delivered here in Devon and found a supplier for Ballymaloe Relish and Clonakilty Black Pudding!

As the saying goes: You can take the boy out of Cork, but youll never take the Cork out of the boy. And proudly so.
Where were you born?

I was born in Brisbane, Queensland.

Where do you live?

I have lived in Brisbane all my life - Brisbane born and bred!

Family?

I live with my mother, dad and brother. My grandparents live in far north Queensland on a sugar cane farm. Ive spent a lot of time in Abergowrie, where they live, enjoying the country lifestyle and the blistering heat!

Abergowrie is where my great-grandparents immigrated from Ballylanders and Meelin.

Best friend?

One of my oldest, Paris, who Ive known since I was around eight years old. We went through primary and secondary school together and have travelled together since leaving school!

Earliest childhood memory?

I have lots of fond childhood memories but one of my first is actually my first Queensland Rose of Tralee selection night. Unfortunately, its not all for fond reasons, as that day I was so excited, I ran head first into the corner of a table at pre-school, needing eight stitches on my forehead!

But nothing was going to stop me going to the ball, so I went with a very obvious head plaster and had the best night!

Person you most admire?

So many women have inspired me my entire life - Ive been so lucky to be surrounded by so many Queensland Roses, one such being my mother! She has always inspired me to celebrate my cultural heritage and given me such a wonderful gift of the Rose of Tralee community. I know Ill do her proud in Tralee!

Person who most irritates you?

As a former childcare worker, Id love to be able to say I have an unlimited amount of patience, but now, working as a strategy consultant, Id have to say nothing tests me like a meeting which very easily couldve been an email.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Last year I got to travel through Europe with some of my closest friends. We got to experience New Year in Paris, the Scottish Highlands and London! The European winter was unbearable for us Aussies.

Favourite TV programme?

It has to be Ballykissangel - its a favourite when I go back up to see my grandparents, weve re-watched it so much weve scratched out the disc! Of course, my favourite character is Siobhan.

Favourite radio show or podcast?

The Hamish And Andy Podcast is definitely one of my favourites! Always a fun one to listen to!

Your signature dish if cooking?

A piece of toast! Im absolutely no chef!

Favourite restaurant?

Agnes in Brisbane - its an iconic spot with all modern Australian cuisine. All celebrations take place at Agnes!

Last book you read?

Intermezzo, by Sally Rooney. As a fan of her books (especially Normal People) I am so excited to visit Trinity College and experience some of the places Ive read!

Best book you read?

I love the classics - my favourite has always been Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Its the book that got me super into reading and I go back for a re-read all the time!

Last album/CD/download you bought?

I had quite a few albums downloaded ready for the 20-plus hour journey to Ireland from Australia, including some of my favourites such as Back To Black by Amy Winehouse, some Harry Styles, and my all time favourite - the Mamma Mia soundtrack!

Favourite song?

Murder On The Dancefloor, by Sophie Ellis-Bextor

One person you would like to see in concert?

I would love to see Hozier in concert.

He recently came to Australia, but all his shows sold out in seconds, so still one on the bucket list for me.

Do you have a pet?

No pets currently, sadly. Still cherish my childhood Guinea pig Scooby Doo though!

Morning person or night owl?

Definitely night owl - looking forward to the twilight and extra hours of sunlight in Ireland!

Your proudest moment?

It would definitely be being crowned as the Queensland Rose.

It was a moment I had dreamed of my entire life, and extremely surreal to have happen.

I know it will be a moment I will think back on for the rest of my life.

Spendthrift or saver?

Usually a saver, but have definitely had to be a bit of a spendthrift lately to get all my dresses ready for tour.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

One thing Id love to improve about Brisbane is the state of our river. Its such a central part of the city, but it can get very dirty with pollution and rubbish very quickly.

I think we could do better with cleaner waterways and encourage people to be more mindful about how they dispose of waste - especially with the Brisbane Olympics coming up, its a great chance to make the city shine and show it off at its best.

What makes you happy?

Being around my friends and family always fills my cup. I love my running and pilates - nothing beats a sunny run along the river and a morning coffee.

How would you like to be remembered?

Id like to be remembered as someone who loved spending time with loved ones - family, friends, and especially my new Rose sisters Im yet to meet; and hopefully some who never shied away from a bit of good craic!

What else are you up to at the moment?

My life has been completely consumed by dress shopping, sorting my wardrobe, and getting the many shoes and bags for the Rose tour!
Domestic violence and addiction services need to work together more to address gaps in the system, a Cork domestic violence manager and Alice, a victim of abuse, who is in recovery from alcoholism, have said.

Alcohol Action Ireland CEO Sheila Gilheany said earlier this month: We know that in many incidences, alcohol use is the catalyst to significant domestic disruption and abuse. Given the close connection between alcohol and domestic violence, there is an urgent need for early intervention support programmes.

This connection between addiction and abuse is not just seen in men who are increasingly abusive when under the influence, but in women who are victims of domestic violence and turn to drinking to cope, a Cork woman has said, calling for more to be done for this cohort  who can often be judged rather than helped.

Alice  not her real name  a Cork mother who is in recovery for alcoholism and left an abusive relationship in recent years, told The Echo that the first thing she would like to see is research to see how common her situation is.

Its a big issue but its almost an elephant in the room, she said.

The perpetrators, who tend to be men, can use womens alcohol or drug use to further their control over them, so a woman in addiction can be controlled and abused more because of their addiction.

The perpetrators can control their access to drugs or alcohol, and often threaten them with social services, that is my and others lived experience. Theres a lot more stigma around women, particularly mothers, using substances than there is men. People dont know who to blame, the addict or the perpetrator.

She explained that women who have been domestically abused are more susceptible to addiction, and women in addiction are more vulnerable to domestic violence, saying: We need to have the evidence first, we need to do some research before we can convince Government parties to provide financial support.

We are so behind in Ireland, we dont even know how many women entering a treatment centre are experiencing domestic violence, theres no screening, just anecdotal evidence.

We need funding for transition houses, specifically for women who are leaving treatment sober and need a safe environment  I spent nine months in a safehouse, but I was lucky, and it shouldnt be about luck.

She explained many women cannot access domestic violence shelters if they are actively drinking or using drugs, and that treatment centres methods can be harmful for victims of domestic violence: Part of recovery is being accountable for our own behaviours and how our families feel about our drinking  they will actively put the behaviour of the man back on the woman, my experience was I was told he was only like this because of my drinking, but there is never any excuse for violence.

She proposed a dual training programme for addiction and domestic violence services, saying: Currently we expect somebody to leave the safe environment of a treatment centre and go back to an unsafe home, which is a recipe for going straight back into addiction, its almost impossible to be sober and clean in those conditions.

The perpetrator doesnt like the new version of the woman who comes home who has greater understanding and wants a better life. In my case, I was literally handed a bottle of vodka and told by my partner: You need this, and I took it. He didnt like the changes happening in me and how they were shining a spotlight on the cracks in our relationship.

She explained that after drinking again for a short period, she left the relationship, returned to treatment, and has been sober ever since: When were sober, we can feel and think  the perpetrator wants to keep the woman small. Part of domestic violence is severing connections with family and friends  and the support and connection part of recovery is the direct opposite to that.

Of the people who were in treatment with me, two went back out to their abusive partner, went back to their addiction, and are dead now. There is no coincidence there, the harsh truth is that when women go home from a treatment centre to an abusive partner, theyre going home to die.

The solution to this is better connections between services, such as a specific role in treatment centres for helping women who have experienced domestic violence, she said, adding that social services, homelessness services, and mental health services should be collaborating better.

Alcohol Action Ireland CEO Sheila Gilheany: There is an urgent need for early intervention support programmes. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

She said: We need to take the stigma away and offer support rather than the fear that a womans children are going to be taken away from her, and we need to recognise the importance of having a safe environment to come home to, because in an unsafe environment, there really isnt any option but to pick up a drink again.

Sinead Heffernan, the support services manager at West Cork Beacon, told The Echo: There are definitely gaps in services, and a need for increased collaboration between services who deal with people who have experienced trauma, saying that research shows a marked correlation between addictions and all kinds of abuse, but specifically domestic abuse.

She explained that addiction can be a barrier for victims leaving abusive relationships: In Ireland, addiction can be viewed through a stigmatised lens, where it is not understood that alcohol and substance abuse are maladaptive coping mechanisms. Its not surprising they are used during very stressful times in peoples lives.

Dr Heffernan added that she worked in hospitals for 10 years, saying: Withdrawal from alcohol can pose serious medical risk, so services and safehouses have to consider these dangers, which is a concern for all residential services. We take a harm-reduction approach and continue to work with the person rather than saying: We cant work with you because you have a substance abuse issue.

'SERVICES ARE LACKING'

She agreed that collaboration was the key: Services are lacking, in some ways. West Cork Beacon works closely with other services including addiction services; there is an ongoing need for inter-agency collaboration as treating trauma is a complex issue. More training on domestic violence for services who work with us, is needed.

It shouldnt be any surprise that domestic violence can lead to substance abuse, but some services look at the substance as the problem in itself and focus on abstinence, and its not that simple.

The trauma-informed care model is considered best practice in service provision for domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health care, so using this framework in the future will facilitate increased collaboration and screening for domestic violence in substance abuse services and vice versa.

There are many variables, and many are related to the impact of childhood trauma; theres a huge intergenerational component too. Its possible some perpetrators grew up in domestic violence, so they were victims as well.

She added that data from the Simon Community study in 2017 highlighted high levels of domestic and substance abuse among the homeless in childhood: We, as crisis services, need to work together, and realise that domestic and substance abuse are two sides of the same coin. Theres a fear among mothers who use alcohol to cope that Tusla may remove their child, which is a valid concern. I can see why it would be a barrier to seeking our help; if they fear the child will stay with their abusive partner or go into care.

Everything can be used as a tool by abusers, even mental health problems can be used in court despite them often being trauma symptoms. While some women might use alcohol to cope, others might use self-harm  we need to understand the complexity of the abuse and identifying the impact of trauma on that person, without judgement.

She agreed that more connection between services was key, and added: If we undertook a national study to ascertain the levels of childhood trauma [including substance abuse and domestic violence], within the Irish population, as has been done elsewhere, it would enhance our appreciation for the need for more joined-up thinking between crisis services.
A Cork renter who is waiting for his familys home to be purchased under the tenant-in-situ scheme has told The Echo he ended up in hospital due to the stress of a process which has now taken a year.

The scheme allows local authorities to purchase privately owned homes where tenants are at risk of eviction, ensuring they can remain in their homes as social housing tenants.

The scheme has been stalled in Cork city since April due to what the council called insufficient funding from Government.

One man said his family went through the tenant-in-situ scheme process last August and got a confirmation at the end of January that the council had put a deposit on the house, which went to sale agreed.

He told The Echo: Were still in the same situation, we were told at the end of May by council that the situation was sorted and the house would be bought, which was confirmed to me by local TDs. But since then, weve heard nothing.

The house has still not been paid for, and the auctioneer says that the landlord is getting very impatient and says if it hasnt been bought by August, hell put it on the open market in September.

I completely understand this from the landlord, hes been very understanding and patient, but its three to four months since they said this was sorted, and a full year since the whole process started.

Local TDs in Cork have confirmed that multiple people who were in his situation whereby their home had gone to the sale agreed stage are now living in emergency accommodation due to the delays with the scheme, and their landlords are not waiting as long as this particular mans.

We still dont have confirmation of whats going on, we cant do anything to the house because we dont know are we going to have to move out, said the man.

I ended up in hospital a couple of months back because of the stress of it.

It comes as housing minister James Browne this week announced the allocation for an additional 696m capital funding recently approved by Government to help address homelessness at the community level.

Part of this announcement was 50m funding for second-hand acquisitions, including tenant-in-situ scheme, on top of the 325m total allocated for 2025.

It is unclear how much, if any, of this top-up funding is to be made available to Cork City Council, which advised earlier this year that the 20m it was provided for 2025 was insufficient to even cover last years costs, not to mind acquiring new properties this year.
Apple has denied Elon Musk's accusation that it's favoring OpenAI in its App Store rankings and making it impossible for other AI companies to reach the top. In a statement sent to Bloomberg, Apple said the App Store is "designed to be fair and free of bias." The company's spokesperson explained that the App Store features "thousands of apps through charts, algorithmic recommendations and curated lists selected by experts using objective criteria." They added: "Our goal is to offer safe discovery for users and valuable opportunities for developers, collaborating with many to increase app visibility in rapidly evolving categories."

xAI founder Elon Musk accused Apple of "unequivocal antitrust violation" by favoring OpenAI in a post on X, warning that his company "will take immediate legal action." In a separate post from his threat, he asked Apple why it "[refuses] to put either X or Grok in [its] 'Must Have' section." X, he said, is "the #1 news app in the world," while Grok is ranked number five among all apps. "Are you playing politics? What gives?" he continued.

Musk didn't provide evidence to back his accusations. It's also worth noting that Chinese AI app DeepSeek reached the top of Apple's free app rankings back in January, overtaking even ChatGPT. As X's own Community Notes also mentioned in Musk's post, added hours after it went up, Perplexity reached the top of overall rankings in India's App Store back in July. Both apps were able to reach the top of their respective lists way after Apple and OpenAI announced their partnership last year.

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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded to Musk's accusation, as well. He said it's a "remarkable claim," given that he has heard allegations that Musk manipulates "X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like." In response, Musk posted: "Scam Altman lies as easily as he breathes."
One thing I need to make clear right from the start: this is a review of Norton VPN (formerly Norton Secure VPN, and briefly Norton Ultra VPN) as a standalone app, not of the VPN feature in the Norton 360 package. They're similar, but Norton VPN has a few more features, including the ability to choose cities as server locations in countries with more than one option.

I'll state my opinion up front. Norton VPN isn't a bad service, but it's not good enough to get ahead of its direct competitors. ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN and NordVPN are all either faster, more feature-rich, more secure, more affordable or some combination of the four. There's no reason to go with Norton as your VPN unless you're getting it as part of another Norton 360 bundle.

For this review, I ran rigorous tests that highlighted Norton VPN's strengths (well-designed user interfaces, a verified privacy policy) along with its weaknesses (holes in its security, renewals that double the price, weak customer support). Norton's history of focusing on Windows means that app is by far the most complete; if you're on any other platform, expect to miss out on the best VPN protocols and the complete feature set.

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Editors' note: We're in the process of rebooting all of our VPN reviews from scratch. Once we do a fresh pass on the top services, we'll be updating each review with a rating and additional comparative information.

Gen Digital Norton VPN A VPN that doesn't quite live up to the Norton legacy. Pros Apps are easy to use

IP rotation and double-hop connections

Verified privacy policy Cons Exposes IP address while switching servers

Poor customer support

Not all servers unblock Netflix $3 at Norton VPN

Table of contents

Findings at a glance

Use this table as a quick reference for my test results, investigations and thoughts about Norton VPN. For more details, jump to the relevant section using the table of contents above.

Category Notes Installation and UI All apps install easily Navigation is intuitive, with clearly labeled tabs and explanations of each feature Mac and iOS apps lack several options, including split tunneling Browser extensions are the only way to use the ad blocker Smart TVs are also supported Speed Relatively significant average speed drop of 21.1 percent Download speeds varied with distance, which can be a sign of outdated infrastructure Upload speeds dropped an average of 9.5 percent Mean worldwide latency was 322 ms, putting Norton in the middle of the pack Security Windows and Android apps have WireGuard, OpenVPN and Mimic; Mac and iOS apps just have IKEv2 and Mimic Mimic uses vetted encryption, but I still recommend using open-source protocols wherever possible Unless kill switch is enabled, your real IP address is visible while switching server locations Pricing You can only subscribe for one year at a time After one year, renewal pricing kicks in, doubling the annual fee The Standard plan, which includes all VPN features, costs $39.99 for the first year and $79.99 for future years All plans can be refunded for 60 days Bundles Plus plans add most of the functionality of Norton Antivirus, but without manual scans, disk cleanup or email monitoring Ultimate adds parental controls and personal data removal Norton VPN is also available through several Norton 360 plans, with reduced features Privacy policy Norton's general privacy policy allows far too much data collection, but Norton VPN's rules are stricter An audit in 2024 found that Norton VPN posed little or no privacy risk Virtual location change Most servers changed my virtual location to access a different Netflix library Iceland location was repeatedly blocked Server network 106 server locations in 66 countries Good distribution across northern and southern hemispheres No information on virtual server locations Features Can block ads on mobile and browsers; browser version can allow certain acceptable ads Some locations connect through a second server, while others continually rotate your IP address Kill switch works but is only available on iOS through Mimic Windows and Android users get split tunneling by app Can scan wi-fi networks for common attacks Customer support Windows users have the most in-app debugging options  all other platforms just link to the website FAQs are hard to navigate and have little useful information Tech support prefers to call rather than email Background check Norton Antivirus was first offered in 1991, but Norton VPN didn't launch until 2019 as part of the Norton 360 resurrection No serious controversies during that time

Installing, configuring and using Norton VPN

Here, I'll do my best to convey how it feels to use Norton VPN on various platforms. Its apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and browsers are all similar, but there are distinctions in both design and features.

Windows

Once you download the Norton VPN app from its website or the Microsoft Store, an installation wizard takes over and makes the rest of the process easy. You'll have to click to grant a few permissions and skip through a tutorial, but after that, you're free to move about the interface.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

Norton VPN's Windows UI was a pleasant surprise. There's no wasted detail on the front page. Click the large yellow button to connect to the VPN, or select the server name to go to the location list, which is alphabetized. Clicking the very first entry in the list connects you to the fastest location. IP rotator servers and double VPN routes are grouped under tabs below that. There's no clutter and no aggressive popups, and connections happen quickly.

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You'll find four tabs on the left-hand side of the Window. The top one manages the VPN. Then there's a store for other Norton products (IMO the only real misstep), a set of help pages and the controls for the VPN's settings and features. This last is subdivided into a row of easily understandable subtabs. I'm impressed by how seamlessly the design works in explanations of what each setting does  it makes the whole thing that much more accessible.

Mac

Downloading Norton VPN for Mac is a quick and painless process, with one slight difference from Windows: you'll have to mess around a bit in System Preferences to give Norton the permissions it needs. Fortunately, the setup wizard guides you through the steps with text and animations.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

The actual interface is just as free of clutter as the Windows app  more so in some cases, as there's no shilling of the rest of the Norton family. The downside is that there's also no help center access from the main window; you have to go to Settings -> Troubleshooting to find the link. There also aren't links to specific help articles like the Windows app includes.

Android

One word of warning about Norton VPN's mobile apps: you need an internet connection for the initial login and setup. It doesn't appear to be opening a website, but if you don't have web access, you'll get stuck in an endless loading loop.

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The front pages of Norton VPN's desktop apps don't have many design elements, so the same general schematic is easy to compress onto mobile. The Android client has a status indicator, a large button to start your connection, tabs along the bottom and a gear icon for settings in the top-right. It's all intuitive and responsive.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

If I were to change anything, though, I'd take some of the options from the upper-right settings menu and swap them with the bottom tabs for notifications and accounts settings. VPN preferences should be accessible in one click, especially protocols. Frankly, the messages you get from this app aren't important enough to merit such pride of place.

iOS

Norton VPN's apps for iPhone and iPad are almost identical to its Android app. The only real difference is that the iOS client is missing some features, most notably split tunneling; also, the kill switch is only available on the Mimic protocol, about which there's limited information. Other than that, it feels good to use. While it's not great that Apple users lose out on the full feature set, I can't deny it alleviates the problem of the VPN preferences menu feeling overstuffed.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

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Browser extensions

Norton VPN has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox and Edge. The only reason to install any of these is to access the ad blocker, which doesn't come with either of the desktop apps. Other than that, it's an underwhelming extension. I recommend skipping it and going with a dedicated ad blocker instead  you'll get more customization features that way.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

Norton VPN speed test

Using speedtest.net, I tested Norton VPN to see how much it slowed down my browsing speeds. I then calculated the results as percentages. While different networks give you different starting speeds, the same server location tends to slow down all those networks at about the same rate. You can use this table to estimate how much speed you can expect while Norton VPN is running.

As a reference, you generally need download speed for loading web pages and videos, upload speed for sending large amounts of data and latency for real-time communication. Latency always increases sharply over longer distances, but a good VPN can still keep the jumps under control. Let's see how Norton VPN did.

Server location Latency (ms) Increase factor Download speed (Mbps) Percentage drop Upload speed (Mbps) Percentage drop Portland, OR, USA (unprotected) 18  58.90  5.91  Portland, OR, USA (protected) 30 1.7x 55.83 5.2 5.53 6.4 McAllen, TX, USA 164 9.1x 48.96 16.9 5.70 3.6 Argentina 422 23.4x 43.02 27.0 5.72 3.2 Croatia 379 21.1x 46.35 21.3 5.65 4.4 Nigeria 564 31.3x 39.94 32.2 3.86 34.7 Indonesia 375 20.8x 44.88 23.8 5.64 4.6 Average 322 17.9x 46.50 21.1 5.35 9.5

Before I interpret the results, I should mention that the algorithm Norton VPN uses to pick the fastest server doesn't seem to be reliable. Every time I clicked it, it gave me the server in Texas, thousands of miles from my real location in Portland, Oregon. Moreover, the Portland server was obviously faster. This happened repeatedly over multiple days of testing.

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To the point: this table doesn't look good for Norton VPN. Download speeds dropped an average of 21.1 percent, the worst showing of any VPN I've tested so far. What's worse, the data clearly trend toward worse speeds at greater distances. Although it's true that distance impacts download speed as well as latency, it's also true that a well-implemented modern server OS should be able to render that effect minimal.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

Upload speed looks better, with an average drop of under 10 percent  mainly dragged down by the Nigeria server, which cut speeds sharply across every test. Latency is also not awful. Controlling for the expected variance due to distance, Norton VPN beat out both Surfshark and NordVPN in average worldwide ping, which suggests that gaming may be its comfort zone.

Norton VPN security test

A VPN's primary job is to change your IP address. While doing this, it must also encrypt your communications with its servers so nobody can follow your connection home  this is what separates a VPN from a simple proxy. In this section, I'll run three checks to see whether Norton VPN can guarantee anonymous browsing.

VPN protocols

VPNs use protocols to establish stable connections between your devices and their servers. Most providers pick from the same pool of field-tested options, but you do see a surprise every now and then, like Norton VPN's Mimic.

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Norton VPN's protocol selection follows its general trend of serving very different experiences to users on different platforms. Windows and Android users get WireGuard, OpenVPN and Mimic, while macOS and iOS users only get Mimic and IKEv2. Here's a rundown of each.

WireGuard is the most modern open-source VPN protocol currently available. It's almost always the fastest and uses a secure stream cipher for cryptography. The one downside is that it saves your real IP address to keep the connection open. Norton VPN deals with this by assigning temporary dynamic IP addresses during the authentication process.

OpenVPN is an open source protocol that's been in use for ages. Its source code is slightly clunky after years of volunteers poking it for weaknesses, but that also makes it the most trustworthy option. It's fast on average, though usually slower than WireGuard or IKEv2.

IKEv2 is a fast protocol that's good at reconnecting mobile devices as they move between networks. Norton VPN uses it in conjunction with IPSec encryption. If you're on an Apple device, it's your only option other than Mimic.

Mimic is an obfuscation protocol, which makes your VPN connection look like regular HTTPS traffic. This can get around networks that block all VPN traffic regardless of content. Mimic is based on TLS 1.3, and uses the same standard encryption algorithms as the other protocols.

Normally, I advise letting your VPN choose what protocol is best. Norton VPN is different. There simply isn't enough information about Mimic for me to trust it, and you shouldn't let the VPN switch you to it without your knowledge. All the others are fine, though.

Leak test

Testing a VPN for leaks is easy: just check your IP address before and after connecting, and see if it changes. I used IPleak.net to run that test on several Norton VPN servers. I first observed that Norton VPN prevents IPv6 leaks by blocking IPv6 altogether. On every run, the IPv6 test failed to load, no matter which server location I chose. This is an effective way to make leaks impossible, since almost none of the internet is IPv6-only yet.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

My second conclusion was that Norton VPN's servers don't leak through DNS or WebRTC while your connection remains stable. However, every time I changed from one location to another, my real IP address was visible on the test screen for several seconds. Enabling the kill switch solved this problem, but the kill switch is not active by default, so make sure you turn it on in the settings.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

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There is one other serious problem with this: on the iOS app, the kill switch cannot be used except with the Mimic protocol. This forces users to choose between leaving a hole in their security or trusting it to a protocol with limited transparency. Until this changes, I can't recommend installing Norton VPN on iOS at all.

I tested the rotating IP server in the United States to see if it had the same problem, and thankfully didn't notice it. A Norton representative also confirmed that all servers have their own DNS resolvers that avoid public servers, cutting off a big source of leaks. Still, I'd recommend keeping the kill switch engaged. As long as you remember this, Norton VPN is secure.

Encryption test

Finally, I ran a test with WireShark to see if Norton VPN's protocols managed to encrypt my traffic. Since I've been uncertain about Mimic, I used it for the encryption test. I found that Mimic does in fact encrypt data packets, even on an unsecured HTTP connection. WireShark also confirmed to me that Mimic is using TLS for key exchange and encryption.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

How much does Norton VPN cost?

Norton VPN subscriptions are only available for one year at a time  there's no monthly option. There are three different subscription tiers, summarized in the table below. "Number of devices" refers to how many devices you can have installed on a single account, whether or not any of them are connected to the VPN.

Subscription Starting price (One year) Renewal price (One year) Number of devices Features Standard $39.99 $79.99 5 Basic VPN service, IP rotation, double VPN, kill switch Plus $49.99 $109.99 5 Antivirus, password manager, dark web alerts, 10GB cloud backup Ultimate $59.99 $129.99 10 Parental controls, device locator

The Standard subscription is a reasonable price for what you get, but the superior Proton VPN is barely more expensive and Surfshark is actually cheaper. In other words, Norton VPN is a good price, but not great value  especially when you factor in the renewal prices, all of which force you to pay double or more what you paid the first time. If you'd like to decide for yourself, all the plans do come with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Norton VPN side apps and bundles

Norton is better known as an antivirus company than a VPN provider, so naturally Norton VPN is packaged with the rest of the Norton 360 family. Be warned  unless you turn the option off in the Settings -> Privacy tab, Norton will collect information on your app usage and use it to target you with ads for its other products.

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Norton 360 is a massive product line encompassing dozens of individual subscriptions. To keep this section from bloating, I'll focus on the software available as part of an upgraded Norton VPN subscription, then end by listing the Norton 360 plans that include Norton VPN.

Features on Norton VPN Plus

A Norton VPN Plus subscription adds several features from Norton's antivirus suite, but isn't a complete replacement for Norton or any other dedicated antivirus software. Plus users get most of the antivirus features that work in real time, including a smart firewall, anti-ransomware backups, a sandbox for quarantining suspicious programs and a malicious script blocker.

VPN subscribers do not get access to the quicker Smart Scan option, instead getting a different scan feature that checks for online threats (note that the FAQ page about this erroneously says Norton VPN includes Smart Scan). VPN users also miss out on the LiveUpdate feature that installs security patches autonomously, plus the automated hard drive cleaner.

Features on Norton VPN Ultimate

In addition to raising the device limit to 10, Norton VPN Ultimate adds two features on top of Plus: parental controls and Privacy Monitor. The latter is only available in the US and Canada.

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Parental control is both a time-based site blocker and a monitoring app. It can not only track a child's internet activity, but also their physical location, giving you alerts if they leave set boundaries during a certain time (say school property during a weekday). Privacy Monitor scans for your information on data brokerage sites so you can send deletion requests, similar to Surfshark Incogni.

Norton 360 plans that include Norton VPN

Instead of subscribing to Norton VPN directly, you can also pick a Norton 360 plan that includes VPN service. Norton 360 Standard and Norton 360 For Gamers each let you install Norton VPN on three devices. Norton 360 Deluxe raises that number to five, while Norton 360 with Lifelock Select and Norton 360 with Lifelock Advantage grant you 10 total VPN installs. Norton 360 with Lifelock Ultimate Plus lets you install Norton VPN on an unlimited number of devices.

Close-reading Norton VPN's privacy policy

To assess Norton VPN's privacy, we need to look at two different privacy policies. Like I said in the introduction, there are technically two products called Norton VPN  the standalone service I've been reviewing and the VPN features of the Norton 360 bundle. I've been focused on the independent Norton VPN so far, but since the Norton 360 VPN add-on is a privacy risk, I want to mention it here.

Norton lists the privacy policies for each of its products on one page of its website. The VPN feature of Norton 360 is governed by the top two policies, Norton Security Products (desktop) and Norton 360 Mobile Apps. The standalone Norton VPN has its own policy further down the page.

The Norton 360 policy is a privacy nightmare. Both the desktop and mobile apps claim the right to save your IP address, device fingerprints and web activity for up to 36 months, and there's no exception for the VPN feature. I strongly advise against using Norton 360's bundled VPN for any activity you don't want Norton seeing.

Fortunately, Norton holds the standalone VPN to a much more acceptable set of rules. It isn't permitted to collect IP addresses, browsing history or DNS requests, nor can it share any of the data it does collect with partners. The partners note is important because one of Norton's sibling companies, Avast, is known to have sold information on its users to corporations for ad targeting. A Norton representative stated that Avast is no longer involved in harvesting or selling user data. More importantly, he said that no data from VPN products is shared between Gen Digital brands.

Independent privacy audits

A recent audit by penetration testing firm VerSprite provides reason to be hopeful about Norton VPN's privacy. According to a report published in August 2024, which you can download from this page, VerSprite found that Norton VPN posed an overall "low" privacy risk, judged on a scale of low, medium, high and critical risks.

During their audit, VerSprite informed Norton that certain conditions could make VPN users identifiable. In a second round of tests, Norton appears to have fixed those vulnerabilities. That's certainly reassuring, but I wish the report  which only runs three pages in all  was more specific about what the problem actually was. Regardless, the VerSprite audit is a good sign that Norton VPN is taking privacy more seriously than Norton as a whole.

Can Norton VPN change your virtual location?

If a VPN can change your virtual location, it can not only throw ISPs and other interlopers off your real identity, but also change what you see on the internet  especially on streaming sites, where connecting through a different country can unlock new shows. However, Netflix and its brethren block VPN traffic for copyright reasons, so it's never a guarantee that you'll get in.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

I tested Norton VPN's ability to unblock Netflix on five different locations, connecting three times on three different servers in each place. I set the app to automatically choose the protocol. In the table below, you'll see how many tests each location passed, and whether Netflix showed new content each time. If I get into Netflix but the library doesn't change, that indicates the server might be leaky.

Server location Unblocked Netflix? Changed content? Vancouver, Canada 3/3 3/3 Iceland 0/3 0/3 Latvia 3/3 3/3 Morocco 3/3 3/3 Philippines 3/3 3/3

I had no problems in four out of five of the locations I tested, but Netflix utterly defeated the Iceland servers. No matter how many times I disconnected and reconnected to get a new IP address, Netflix recognized a VPN server and blocked me. This happened even when I switched to the Mimic protocol.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

That indicates that Netflix has blocklisted most or all of Norton VPN's servers in Iceland, and the company hasn't caught up. It's another troubling indication that Norton isn't committing the level of attention that its server network requires.

Investigating Norton VPN's server network

Speaking of the server network, now's the time to get deeper into it. The relative scarcity of different IP addresses on Norton VPN, along with the download speed drops over long distances, suggest to me that Norton might have relegated maintaining VPN data centers to an afterthought. So, let's see what its worldwide server selection looks like.

Region Countries with servers Total server locations North America 5 32 South America 6 6 Europe 36 47 Africa 5 5 Middle East 2 2 Asia 10 10 Oceania 2 4 Total 66 106

All of Norton VPN's server locations are physical, with no virtual locations. This makes its network more reliable  virtual server locations can deliver unexpected speed swings. However, it does limit the number of locations Norton is capable of offering.

The selection is reasonably good, with many locations in often-underserved Africa and South America, and many options in marquee regions like the US and Europe. However, it's a pretty small network for what Norton is charging. Also, as we saw with the Iceland location getting blocked by Netflix, having a country on the menu doesn't necessarily mean it will do the job.

Extra features of Norton VPN

Norton VPN added a ton of features in the first several months of 2025. Most of these mainly brought it up to par with other VPNs, like city-level region selection or support for smart TVs. However, there are one or two you won't find in many other places, like the IP rotator  to my knowledge, nobody else has that except Surfshark. Here are the most important extras to know about.

Ad blocker

Norton VPN's ad blocker can be used on its browser extension. Its mobile apps can block the trackers embedded in ads, but not the ads themselves. There's not a lot of customization potential; you can turn it on and off, and that's mainly it. The one option you have on the extension is to turn "acceptable ads" back on. This can help you get into sites that normally block users with adblock on, or use sites where you want to see ads to help them monetize.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

Double VPN and IP rotator

Norton introduced these two features in 2025 as "enhanced anonymity" upgrades. Double VPN runs your VPN through two server locations instead of one, so you're still safe if one server breaks down. You can choose from eight pre-determined multi-hop paths with endpoints in the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Germany and Taiwan.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

IP rotation servers change your IP address frequently while you're connected, which makes you harder to track. Unlike Surfshark, which lets you turn this on everywhere, Norton VPN limits you to six IP rotator locations: the USA, the UK, Canada, Japan, Germany and Australia.

Convenience features

The next three features were also added in the last eight months. The server location menu now puts your last five locations at the top for easy retrieval. While connected to a server, you can pause the VPN for 15, 30 or 60 minutes, after which it turns back on. Finally, the mobile apps have added a home screen widget so you can operate the VPN without opening the app.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

Kill switch

A VPN kill switch cuts off your internet access if you lose your VPN connection, so any sensitive information isn't broadcast unprotected. Norton VPN's kill switch is vital, since it appears to briefly drop encryption while switching server locations. Unfortunately, it's not available on iOS unless you're using the Mimic protocol.

Split tunneling

The Windows and Android apps for Norton VPN allow split tunneling, in which only certain apps go through the VPN while others connect directly. Norton uses app-based split tunneling, but if you want to protect or remove protection from specific URLs, you can use two different web browsers.

Wi-Fi security

This feature, which appears on NortonVPN's mobile apps only, activates whenever you connect to a Wi-Fi network. Norton VPN scans that network for common attacks launched over Wi-Fi, like DNS poisoning and SSL stripping, and sends you an alert if it detects any.

P2P optimization

Norton VPN has certain servers in its network configured for torrenting. You can't use it for torrenting outside those locations  if you try, the VPN will disconnect. To connect to a P2P server, just select "P2P-optimized region" from the server menu. You can't choose a torrenting server in a specific region; the app just selects the fastest.

Norton VPN customer support options

Following the broad trend of Norton VPN, the Windows app gets most of the love, having much more in-app support than any other platform. Mac users get a troubleshooting tab in the settings menu, with three options: go to the online help center, send a bug report or go to the community forum. iOS and Android just have a "help and support" button on the accounts page that sends you straight to the website.

On Windows, there's a separate help and support tab above the settings tab, which gives you direct links to some of the most important pages on the Norton website. It's also got links to the forum and help center. Then there's the same troubleshooting tab as the Mac app, but with more options. Windows users can reset the app to default, record a problem to get more specific help, send debug logs and run an automated "Repair Norton" process.

If you got to the website through a desktop app, it's surprisingly difficult to get to the general support page for Norton VPN  Windows links to a splintered set of FAQ pages, while Mac sends you to a Mac-specific page for the entire Norton Family. I recommend just going to support.norton.com in your browser, then clicking the Norton VPN button. At least the links in both mobile apps take you straight there.

Once you have gotten to the Norton VPN support page, you won't find much of use. Help articles are limited and leave some big holes. For example, all connectivity problems are limited to a page called "Fix problem accessing the internet when connected to Norton VPN." The only advice for Windows, Mac and Android is to choose a different VPN protocol, and there's nothing at all for iOS.

Even worse, whenever you use the search bar to look anything up, you're forced to watch an AI answer type itself out in real time, so links to the actual help pages are constantly jumping around as you try to click on them. It's this feature that pushes Norton's help pages from negligent to hostile.

Live support experience

There are a few other ways to get support from Norton VPN. You can check in on the community forum, chat live with an agent or call their phone line. The forums are reasonably active for Windows, but pretty dead for all other platforms.

I used live chat to ask about a problem with installing the iOS app. I managed to reach a human pretty quickly, but there were several long pauses during our conversation. Eventually, they escalated my case to a higher support team.

Sam Chapman for Engadget

I assumed that this team would send me an email, per standard practice. Instead, they repeatedly tried to reach me by phone. I was not warned that they would do this, and each time, the call was flagged as spam. By the time I realized Norton was calling me, I'd already solved the problem myself. Be aware of this if you plan to contact Norton with a difficult issue.

Norton VPN background check

The Norton software brand has existed in some form or another since the Norton Utilities package was developed for DOS in 1982. The brand was acquired in 1990 by Symantec, which had published its own first antivirus program the year before. Symantec began releasing Norton Antivirus in 1991, and continued distributing it until its merger with Avast in 2022. Since then, the combined company has been called Gen Digital.

Compared to that long history, Norton VPN has only been around for a blip. It launched in 2019 as part of Symantec's bid to expand the Norton Antivirus line into a suite that could defend against more types of threats. As such, while Norton and Symantec have been involved in their share of controversies over the years, very few of them happened during Norton VPN's lifetime.

Despite Norton's long and checkered history, checking the background of its VPN is pretty simple: nothing has gone seriously wrong yet. This VPN has problems, but they're mainly out in the open, stemming from it being a relative afterthought from a company more focused on other types of security.

Final verdict

For me to recommend a VPN, it has to stand out in a crowded field. After a week of working with Norton VPN, I have to conclude that the only way it distinguishes itself is the Norton name. For everything else it does, a competitor does it better. Surfshark scoops it on IP rotation and multihop, ExpressVPN has better protocols, NordVPN is faster and Proton VPN's ad blocker works in more places.

One thing I will say in Norton VPN's favor is that it's working to rectify all this. In the last year, it's added a lot of features. The problem is that most of those are options I'd have expected it to have already, such as city-level region selection and a kill switch on Mac. It's catching up, not innovating.

It's also nice that you can use the bundles to roll more Norton products into one subscription. However, since Norton is much more experienced at developing other sorts of security software, I'd advise going the Norton 360 route if you're interested in those other features and treating the VPN as an add-on. Norton VPN is a side dish, not an entree.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Contact: Mitchell P. Davis



Broadcast Interview Source, Inc.



202) 333-5000



ExpertClick@Gmail.com

Broadcast Interview Source Launches "Interns-On-Call" Connecting PRSSA Students with PR Clients Nationwide

Washington, D.C.  June 18, 2020  Broadcast Interview Source, Inc. (BIS), publisher of the Yearbook of Experts, ExpertClick.com, and operator of NewsReleaseWire.com, has announced the launch of Interns-On-Call.com  a new platform designed to connect Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) students with organizations seeking affordable, high-quality communications support.

The initiative invites PRSSA students and recent graduates to create personalized "Skill Pages" showcasing their writing, publicity, social media, and technical expertise. These profiles give potential clients  from PR agencies to private firms  direct access to emerging talent at competitive rates, while offering students valuable real-world experience.

"This program benefits everyone," said Mitchell P. Davis, Editor at Broadcast Interview Source. "Clients get access to fresh, creative talent, and students gain professional exposure and portfolio-building opportunities."

What is a "Skill Page"?

A Skill Page is a customized web profile hosted on ExpertClick.com highlighting the intern's services. Students can apply to create one at www.ExpertClick.com/free. Once active, members can leverage ExpertClick's powerful distribution tools  including NewsReleaseWire.com, which feeds content to Google News and LexisNexis  to maximize visibility for clients.

Additionally, BIS offers NewsTip.com as a fast-track tool for new clients to send press releases for free, automatically creating a profile within the ExpertClick system. Releases can be generated instantly at www.NewsTip.com/Refer/Guest_of_Mitchell_P_Davis.

Featured Interns

Kaitlin Martinez-Hall , earning her Master's in Communication from California State University, offers press release writing, graphic design, and social media management. See her Skill Page: https://www.expertclick.com/19-5198.

Brad Butler, a seasoned PR professional, provides media placement, radio interview production for iHeart Radio, podcast editing, graphic design, video production, and expert use of the ExpertClick system. See his Skill Page: https://www.expertclick.com/19-5131.

Early Success & Social Media Outreach

Although Interns-On-Call.com launched just six days ago, it has already attracted attention within PRSSA circles nationwide. The project's Twitter account  @InternsOnCall  shares completed projects and promotes intern talent directly to the public and media outlets.

Links & Resources:

Apply for a Skill Page: www.ExpertClick.com/free

Submit free press releases: www.NewsTip.com/Refer/Guest_of_Mitchell_P_Davis

Learn more about ExpertClick: www.ExpertClick.com

Follow Interns On Call: www.Twitter.com/InternsOnCall

About Broadcast Interview Source, Inc.



For over three decades, Broadcast Interview Source, Inc. has been connecting experts with journalists, producing the Yearbook of Experts, and operating ExpertClick.com and NewsReleaseWire.com to help organizations share their stories with the media and the public.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Paper Money Backed by Minted Silver

Georgetown Cash is printed paper money redeemable for minted silver. Designed as a merchant loyalty program, restaurants can issue these banknotes as bonuses, and patrons can redeem them for specials, discounts, or minted silver.

How It Works

Restaurants distribute Georgetown Cash to customers as rewards for qualifying purchasessuch as ordering a featured dinner. Diners can then:

Redeem Georgetown Cash for desserts, special coffees, or other menu items.

Spend it at any participating restaurant in Georgetown.

Save and exchange it for minted silver.

Because Georgetown Cash is accepted universally among participating businesses, it encourages diners to explore multiple local restaurants, fostering loyalty to the community.

Social Media Integration

The official hashtag #GeorgetownCash on Twitter allows restaurants to share daily specials and discount offers. Diners can follow twitter.com/GeorgetownCash to see re-tweeted offers.



For example, Clyde's might announce a two-for-one lobster special exclusively for Georgetown Cash users.

Part of the "Community Currency" Movement

Georgetown Cash is part of a growing trend of community currency, where local exchange systems serve neighborhoods without the need for traditional credit card fees.



Notable examples include:

BerkShares in Massachusetts

Ithaca Hours in New York

Both have been widely accepted as alternative means of exchange.

Backed by Silver

Who stands behind the Georgetown Dollar? Mitchell P. Davis, CEO of the International Platform Association, is the sponsor.



Davis states:

"Freedom of speech must include the freedom to create a means of financial exchange. The issuance of our silver-backed one-gram notes is just thatto foster freedom of exchange. We've got the silver on deposit to back every banknote issued, and I personally stand behind them."

Contact

International Platform Association



Website: www.internationalplatform.org



Phone: (202) 333-5000
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Sunshine and a few afternoon clouds. High 88F. WNW winds shifting to E at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 52F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph.
A combine harvester was destroyed by fire in a dramatic late-night blaze on a Suffolk farm, prompting a major emergency response.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of the blaze on farmland in Rushmere St Andrew, near Ipswich, at around 10.30pm on Saturday (9 August).

Firefighters from Woodbridge Fire Station described seeing a large plume of smoke and flames visible from a distance as they approached the scene.

Upon arrival, the team deployed a 45mm hose to douse the fire, with a second appliance sending two firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus into the danger zone to continue the extinguishing effort.

Farmers also assisted by using their own water bowser to flood the surrounding area, helping to prevent the fire from spreading further. Additional fire engines shuttled water from a nearby hydrant to support the operation.

This incident comes shortly after another fire involving approximately 200 tonnes of straw on Thursday evening.

That blaze required a response from fire crews across Woodbridge, Saxmundham, Framlingham, Ipswich East, and Leiston.

(Photo: Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service)

Firefighters maintained a vigilant watch and dampened down the surrounding area to reduce the risk of further spread, with relief crews taking over after an overnight operation.

In 2025 alone, the National Fire Chiefs Council has recorded over 500 wildfire incidents. Meanwhile, data from NFU Mutual shows the financial impact of farm fires rose sharply in 2023, reaching 110 million  a 37% increase on the previous year.

In light of these incidents, the NFU has called on government, fire services, and local authorities to collaborate with farmers to minimise the risk of farmland fires.

The union is urging legislation to mandate the installation of fire suppression systems in combine harvesters at the point of sale.

Additionally, it wants public space protection orders introduced to restrict activities that could trigger wildfires, such as barbeques and sky lanterns.
"My advice to the youth is to follow the three Ds  dream, determination, and discipline"





What Inspired You to Join the Army?

How Have Your Experiences in the Army Shaped You as a Person?

What Are Some of the Most Rewarding Aspects of Your Role?

How Do You Overcome Fear?

What Advice Would You Give to Young Girls Who Are Looking up to You?

In 1992, after the Indian Army opened its doors to women to join in non-medical roles for the first time, many have actualised their dreams of serving the nation. They are a part of the nations storied establishment, protecting Indias sovereignty on land. To commemorate 78 years of our independence, Femina met and interacted with ten such women from the Army. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and serving in varied roles, they represent a growing facet of the military. We honour their service and remain grateful for the inspiration they bring to women throughout India and beyond.

, is from, a small town in. She made history when she became the. She holds aand an. As a part of thein the, Col Doming is currentlyin, where winter temperatures plummet toCol Doming is overseeing the, as well as the, which is the. She is also responsible for maintaining theIn the past, Col Doming was one of thein theduring a. She was awarded theon 26 January 2025 and has been a previous recipient of theon two occasions. When she is not constructing, Col Doming likes to spend her time, pursuing, reading, and listening to music. For her, anis one where herI joined the Indian Army because I was inspired to. I grew up dreaming of becoming an officer who can contribute to the development of the nation. I had applied for theinterview in my last year of college. They rejected me because I had not graduated, but they responded by lauding myand asked me to. Such gestures are unheard of from people in any organisation.My young mind was impressed by this gesture.In my tenure of, I have been given many opportunities by the organisation. I have served as ain the, and an. I was deployed in, and I have contributed toas a part of. And now, the Army has trusted me to become thewhere I am commanding a unit at. I was also able tobecause of my physical and mental training in the Army. It has contributed to making me a, a, an, and a. In this journey, I am glad that I have been able to, my, and thehave played a key role in my achievements. But, most importantly, when I know that my work has the ability to, I feel satisfied and rewarded.There is no such thing as fear. Havingand aare the two mantras I rely on to overcome any dull moment in my life.My advice to the youth is to follow the. You have to, and follow a, to be able to achieve it.Photographs: Tenzin LhaghyalArt Direction: Bendi VishanVideography: Ishaan ChawlaLead Makeup Artist: Parvinder Kaur for M.A.C CosmeticsMakeup Team Support: Suman Barik (Airish), Chirag, Mayank for M.A.C CosmeticsHair: Udit Kumar, Ranjan Kumar Jha, Zafar Mustaqeem Salmani for Lakme Salon




A video has gone viral on social media that shows Aryan recording Ahaan's special moment. In the clip, shared by his fan page, Aryan can be seen standing in the background and filming Ahaan and Aneet as they came together to cut the cake. Shah Rukh Khan's son has grown up with the Panday cousins and they are often seen together on various occasions.



Watch the video here: Ahaan Panday is basking in the success of his debut film, Saiyaara, with Aneet Padda. The Mohit Suri directorial has crossed Rs 500 crore globally. The team recently had a success party to celebrate their achievements and it was attended by the cast, crew and their close friends. Ahaan's sister Ananya Panday and their close friend Aryan Khan were also clicked at the party.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aryan Khan Source (@aryankhansource)

Before this, Ahaan and team celebrated the success of the film in Bali. In several fan-shared clips, he was seen greeting his admirers, smiling for pictures, and even sharing a warm message of thanks with one overjoyed fan.

Saiyaara was released theatrically on July 18, 2025. Besides Ahaan and Aneet, the film also stars Rajesh Kumar, Shaan R Grover, Varun Badola, Shaad Randhawa and Alam Khan among others.

Talking of Aryan Khan, the star kid is all set to make his debut as a director with the series The Ba***ds of Bollywood. The title was officially confirmed on February 3 at an event in Mumbai, but the release date is yet to be announced. As per reports, the first look will be revealed on August 20 during a Netflix-hosted event in Mumbai. Reports suggest Aryan might not take part in the promotional activities. The cast has been kept under the wraps, although speculation is rife about appearances by Mona Singh, Bobby Deol and even Ranbir Kapoor in special roles.



Also Read: Saif Ali Khan Confirms Sara Ali Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khans Cameos In Aryan Khans Ba***ds Of Bollywood


Actress Sadaa has made an impassioned plea against a recent Supreme Court directive ordering that Delhis stray dogs be moved to shelters in bulk. In a tearful video on social media, she alleged that the order would effectively amount to a mass killing of the animals, accusing authorities of keeping the true implications hidden from the public.



This is nothing short of cruelty, Sadaa said, visibly shaken. How can anyone be so inhumane towards these dogs? Her breaking voice and tear-streaked face reflected not just personal anguish but a rallying cry to animal lovers across the country.





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sadaa Sayed (@sadaa17)



A Logistical and Moral Nightmare



The courts order, as Sadaa pointed out, asks the government and municipal bodies to relocate an estimated three lakh stray dogs to shelters within eight weeks. It is an undertaking she believes is both impractical and dangerous. Its impossible to sterilise and vaccinate them all in such a short time. The government and local bodies have failed to implement effective Animal Birth Control (ABC) measures for years, despite having the budget. Now, the dogs will suffer because of their negligence, she noted.





Her criticism extended to the systemic failure to curb the stray dog population responsibly. Sadaa noted that while animal welfare groups and volunteers have been working tirelessly, feeding strays, vaccinating them, and providing medical care, the lack of institutional action has left them fighting a losing battle. We do everything we can, but this news its beyond heartbreaking, she said.





Breed Obsession Is Part of the Problem



In her video, Sadaa also highlighted what she sees as one of the root causes of Indias stray crisis. It is an obsession with pedigree pets. Every time people breed dogs and cats for their own desire, they prevent adoption of strays. This has consequences, she said bluntly. She urged such pet owners to stop calling themselves animal lovers if they refuse to extend compassion to street animals.



The actress confessed she feels powerless in the face of the Delhi ruling. The verdict is out. Peaceful protestors have already been arrested. I dont know what else we can do or how to save these dogs, she admitted. I can only imagine the suffering theyre about to endure. My head hangs in shame. My heart is breaking. I never thought Id witness such a mass killing in a country like India. Im ashamed of those who make decisions without thinking twice. Please, reverse this order.



Sadaas raw, unfiltered plea has since struck a chord online, igniting conversations about animal rights, responsible pet ownership and the ethics of mass relocation as a form of population control. Whether her words will move policymakers remains to be seen. But for now, theyve ensured that the country is watching.











Also Read: Photos: Allu Arjuns Best Photos With Daughter Allu Arha




Pre-look of Mahesh Babu's character in Globetrotter

Working birthday for Mahesh Babu

Mahesh Babu

Rajamouli uses blue-screen technology?

Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Mahesh Babu have resumed the shooting for their upcoming action adventure, Globetrotter (working title). Both the actors are presently participating in the shooting schedule in Hyderabad. Director Rajamouli is filming action sequences on Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra in a specially built set.Mahesh Babu recently celebrated his 50th birthday on August 9. While the superstar generally goes to a foreign country to ring in his birthday, this time around, theres a change in idea. Mahesh held back his overseas plan, and instead participated in the shooting of the Globetrotter in the Hyderabad schedule. The action adventure was launched last year, and the filming began in January 2025. While the shooting continued with several breaks, after more than a months gap, the team resumed shooting in Hyderabad recently this week. On the other hand, Priyanka Chopra Jonas is also shooting in Hyderabad. The actress has been sharing pictures outside of the film sets on her Instagram. She recently shared a series of photos playing with her daughter on the sets.We have earlier reported that the film unit was supposed to leave for Kenya and shoot in the countrys national parks. But they have changed their plans due to the prevailing political crises in the country. While Rajamouli also zeroed in on Tanzania as an alternative, the director seems to have put his plans on hold for now. Apparently, Rajamouli is using blue-screen technology to recreate the African settings in Hyderabad. He wanted to shoot as much as he could using the technology and then go for the live locations. Known for integrating cutting-edge technology  AI and VFX  into his storytelling to enhance visual appeal, Rajamouli is set to further achieve a high level of detail with the Globetrotter. Meanwhile, the director has also confirmed (via X) that Globetrotter is the films working title. He added that the title and first look would be unveiled in November.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - This press release is being issued in connection with the filing of an early warning report (the "Early Warning Report") pursuant to the requirements of National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues regarding the acquisition of securities of Coloured Ties Capital Inc. (the "Issuer") by Kulwant (Kal) Malhi (the "Acquiror"). The Acquiror is a director and Chairman of the Issuer, and resides at 10589 Ladner Trunk Road, Vancouver, BC V4K 3N3. The Issuer's head office is located at Suite 1500-1055 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 4N7.

On May 23, 2025, the Issuer granted 580,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") to the Acquiror (the "Grant"). Each RSU entitles the Acquiror to acquire one common share ( "Common Share") in the capital of the Issuer.

Prior to the Grant, the Acquiror held, directly and indirectly, 2,617,700 Common Shares, 1,113,384 common share purchase warrants, 700,000 share options and 700,000 RSUs representing approximately 15.01% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares (on a non-diluted basis), and 29.42% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares (on a partially diluted basis), based on an aggregate of 17,442,491 issued and outstanding Shares prior to the closing of the Transaction.

Following the Grant, the Acquiror held, directly and indirectly 2,617,700 Common Shares, 1,113,384 common share purchase warrants, 700,000 share options and 1,280,000 RSUs, representing approximately 15.01% of the issued and outstanding Shares (on a non-diluted basis), and 32.74% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares (on a partially diluted basis), based on an aggregate of 17,442,491 issued and outstanding Common Shares following the closing of the Grant..

The Acquiror may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease its ownership of the Issuer's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities.

For further information, or to obtain a copy of the Early Warning Report filed under applicable securities laws, please contact:

This early warning news release is issued under the early warning provisions of Canadian securities legislation, including National Instrument 62-104 - Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids and National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262308

SOURCE: Kulwant Malhi
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.



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HIGHLIGHTS

Firm commitments received to raise A$30 million via bought deal at market

Placement driven by demand from leading, high-quality long only offshore institutional investors

The proceeds will enable Benz to accelerate drilling at Glenburgh following up the emerging bulk tonnage gold system at Icon and the exciting high grade gold trend at Zone 126

4 rigs have been locked in, with drilling expected to be ongoing and aggressively ramped up

Benz is well-funded with a pro-forma cash position of over $40 million following completion of the Placement1

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - Benz Mining Corp. (TSXV: BZ) (ASX: BNZ) (Benz or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has received firm commitments for a placement of 30,456,853 new fully paid CHESS Depositary Interests (CDIs) in the Company via a bought deal at an issue price of A$0.985 per CDI to raise A$30 million (before costs) (Placement).

The Placement was driven by strong demand from leading, high-quality offshore institutional investors, and was also supported by its existing large institutional shareholders. Benz's share register is now well-positioned with a broad range of long-only institutional shareholders who have demonstrated their support for the Company's strategy of aggressive exploration to fast track resource growth.

Benz Chair, Mr Evan Cranston, commented:

"This is a transformational capital raising for Benz which will position the Company to significantly increase its exploration activities at the Glenburgh Project, following recent drilling successes at the Icon Prospect and at Zone 126.

"To have had such strong cornerstone demand from two leading offshore institutional funds who share our excitement and vision with the new exploration strategy at Glenburgh is extremely pleasing. The new discoveries at the Icon Apollo trend deserve their own dedicated rigs to rapidly unlock the size and scale of the emerging bulk tonnage system. The remaining rigs will continue to target high grade ounces along the Zone 126 trend and scout out new and exciting untested priority targets along out 18km mineralised trend.

"The demand received from these institutions, together with our existing large institutional shareholders, is seen as a strong endorsement of our recent discoveries and the exploration potential that remains within our belt-scale tenure.

"With a strengthened pro-forma balance sheet of A$40m1 in cash, Benz is well funded to deliver a step change in exploration activities at Glenburgh, doubling drilling capacity to four rigs to fast track resource growth across multiple high priority targets.

"As we move into the next exciting chapter for the Company, I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome our new shareholders to the register and thank our exiting holders for their continued support."

Use of Funds

Proceeds from the Placement will enable Benz to accelerate exploration across its gold portfolio, with a focus on its 100%-owned Glenburgh Gold Project in Western Australia - a new frontier gold district with multi-million-ounce potential.

Funding will be applied towards:

Glenburgh Gold Project (WA): Increasing drilling capacity to four rigs to accelerate testing of the emerging bulk-tonnage gold system at the Icon deposit, the high-grade Zone 126 trend, and other priority targets. Geological modelling, including detailed televiewer interpretation, to deliver a resource model that honours Glenburgh's folded and metamorphosed geometry. Progress towards an updated Mineral Resource Estimate once the majority of planned drilling is complete, ensuring it reflects the full scale of the Project's potential.

Mt Egerton Gold Project (WA): Exploration targeting high-grade near-surface mineralisation through RC drilling, mapping, and geochemical surveys.

Eastmain Gold Mine (Quebec, Canada): Scoping Study to assess early-stage technical and economic development options for the high-grade resource.

General: Working capital and corporate costs.



Placement Details

The Placement was undertaken at an issue price of A$0.985, being the closing share price on the ASX on Friday, 8 August 2025.

The Company will issue 30,406,091 CDIs under its existing placement capacity under ASX Listing Rule 7.1 (Tranche 1 Placement).

A Director of the Company intends to subscribe for 50,762 CDIs (A$50,000) in the Placement (Tranche 2 Placement), subject to shareholder approval at a general meeting that will be held in due course.

It is anticipated that settlement of the Tranche 1 Placement will occur on Wednesday, 20 August 2025 and the CDIs will be allotted and commence trading on Thursday, 21 August 2025. The Tranche 2 Placement is expected to complete in early October 2025. The Placement CDIs will rank equally with existing CDIs from the date of issue.

Euroz Hartleys Limited acted as Lead Manager to the Placement.

This announcement has been approved for release by the Board.

About Benz Mining Corp.

Benz Mining Corp. (TSXV: BZ) (ASX: BNZ) is a pure-play gold exploration company dual-listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and Australian Securities Exchange. The Company owns the Eastmain Gold Project in Quebec, and the recently acquired Glenburgh and Mt Egerton Gold Projects in Western Australia.

Benz's key point of difference lies in its team's deep geological expertise and the use of advanced geological techniques, particularly in high-metamorphic terrane exploration. The Company aims to rapidly grow its global resource base and solidify its position as a leading gold explorer across two of the world's most prolific gold regions.

The Glenburgh Gold Project features a Historical (for the purposes of NI 43-101) Mineral Resource Estimate of 16.3Mt at 1.0 g/t Au (510,100 ounces of contained gold)2. A technical report prepared under NI 43-101- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Glenburgh - Egerton Gold Project, Western Australia" with an effective date of 16 December 2024 has been filed with the TSX Venture Exchange and is available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Eastmain Gold Project in Quebec hosts a Mineral Resource Estimate dated effective May 24, 2023 and prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and JORC (2012) of 1,005,000 ounces at 6.1g/t Au3, also available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca, showcasing Benz's focus on high-grade, high-margin assets in premier mining jurisdictions.





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1818/262316_7450fd1d84517b6d_001full.jpg

For more information, please visit: https://benzmining.com/.

Qualified Person's Statement (NI 43-101)

The disclosure of scientific or technical information in this news release is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr Mark Lynch-Staunton, who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and a Member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) (Membership ID: 6918). Mr Lynch-Staunton has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr Lynch-Staunton owns securities in Benz Mining Corp.

Historical Mineral Resource Estimates

All mineral resource estimates in respect of the Glenburgh Gold Project in this news release are considered to be "historical estimates" as defined under NI 43-101. These historical estimates are not considered to be current and are not being treated as such. These estimates have been prepared in accordance with the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia (JORC Code) and have not been reported in accordance with NI 43-101. A qualified person (as defined in NI 43-101) (Qualified Person) has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates as current mineral resources. A Qualified Person would need to review and verify the scientific information and conduct an analysis and reconciliation of historical data in order to verify the historical estimates as current mineral resources.

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) as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, disclosure regarding the acquisition of the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects as well as certain tenements adjacent thereto and the anticipated benefits thereof, planned exploration and related activities on the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of words and phrases or variations of such words and phrases or statements such as "anticipates", "complete", "become", "expects", "next steps", "commitments" and "potential", in relation to certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "will", "would", be achieved. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, that the tenements associate with the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects that are still pending grant or undergoing the renewal process will be granted and/or renewed, as applicable, in the timely manner and on reasonable terms, and all conditions precedent to completion of the acquisitions will be satisfied, in a timely manner; the Company will be able to raise additional capital as necessary; the current exploration, development, environmental and other objectives concerning the Company's Projects (including Glenburgh and Mt Egerton) can be achieved; and the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions, and operations.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, that occurrences such as those referred to above are realized and result in delays, or cessation in planned work, that the Company's financial condition and development plans change, and delays in regulatory approval, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and www.asx.com.au. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. The Forward-looking information in this news release is based on plans, expectations, and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE.

1 Based on Benz's closing cash of A$10m as at 30 June 2025 and adjusted for gross Placement proceeds (excludes transaction costs).

2 Indicated: 13.5Mt at 1.0g/t Au for 430.7koz; Inferred: 2.8Mt at 0.9g/t Au for 79.4koz. See Historical Mineral Resource Estimates, below

3 Indicated: 1.3Mt at 9.0g/t Au for 384koz; Inferred: 3.8Mt at 5.1g/t Au for 621koz

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262316

SOURCE: Benz Mining Corp.
Honolulu, Hawaii--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - Orthogonal Thinker, Inc. ("Orthogonal") today announced it has entered into a definitive plan to acquire and consolidate Ei.Ventures, Inc. ("EI"), its majority-owned subsidiary, into Orthogonal. The transaction, targeted for completion by the end of Q1 2026, represents a cornerstone step in Orthogonal's multi-year strategy to streamline corporate structure, unify investor alignment, and accelerate operational execution across its portfolio.

EI, founded in 2020, was launched to advance health, wellness, and consciousness through psychedelic and plant-based science. While the company's growth trajectory evolved, its intellectual property, network, and early-mover positioning became the foundation for Orthogonal's broader ecosystem-now designed to integrate wellness, frequency, and frontier technology at scale.

Upon closing, all minority shareholders of EI will receive equity in Orthogonal. The final exchange ratio will be disclosed in formal offer documents anticipated in October 2025. Orthogonal confirmed that the transaction will include a premium above relative valuation, underscoring its commitment to delivering long-term value rather than simply effecting an administrative merger.

"We are not exiting-we're doubling down," said David Nikzad, Founder of Orthogonal Thinker. "We're building this like a skyscraper: piece by piece, designed to stand for decades. The market is turning, capital is moving again, and we're positioned to lead."

Both Orthogonal and EI hold significant equity positions in Cloud3 Ventures Inc. (CSE: CVC) (OTCQB: CLVLF), a publicly traded company. While no immediate changes are being announced regarding Cloud3, Orthogonal's long-term strategy includes consolidating that value under one compliant, investor-aligned structure.

Nikzad added:

"We are still at the earliest edge of the most profound transformation in human history-artificial intelligence. The companies that will endure are the ones that build from first principles, adapt in real time, and align vision with execution. Orthogonal is that company."

The transaction is not expected to require a shareholder vote unless otherwise mandated by applicable law. Shareholders are advised that no action is required until receipt of the formal offer documents.

About Orthogonal Thinker, Inc.

Founded in 2016, Orthogonal deploys capital into visionary founders and category-defining companies that improve human health, extend longevity, and restore the planet-spanning plant sciences, sustainable energy, advanced nutrition, and life-enhancing technologies. Orthogonal operates as an integrated holding company, not a passive fund-building an ecosystem where each investment strengthens the others. The company's mandate: do good, make money doing it, and leave every market better than it was found.

For further information please contact:

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the anticipated completion of the transaction, timing, structure, exchange ratio, strategic objectives, and potential benefits. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, the satisfaction of closing conditions, regulatory approvals, market conditions, and other risks described in Orthogonal's filings with applicable securities regulators. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Orthogonal disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262252

SOURCE: Orthogonal Thinker, Inc.
Melbourne, Australia and Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - Mithril Silver and Gold (ASX: MTH) (TSXV: MSG) (OTCQB: MTIRF) ("Mithril") or (the "Company") is pleased to announce that its common shares are now trading on the OTCQB Venture Market ("OTCQB") in the United States under the symbol MTIRF. The Company's common shares will continue to trade on the Australian Stock Exchange and the TSX.V under the symbols "MTH" and "MSG" respectively.

"Trading on the OTCQB is expected to enhance Mithril's visibility, broaden our shareholder base, and improve access to U.S. capital markets," said John Skeet, Managing Director & CEO. "This marks an important milestone in our market engagement plan and supports our goal of building a strong presence with U.S. investors as we advance our high-grade Copalquin Gold-Silver District."

The OTCQB Venture Market provides an established platform for early-stage and growth companies to enhance their visibility in the U.S. market. Companies listed on OTCQB must meet reporting standards, undergo annual verification, and comply with management certification requirements, providing investors with a trusted market for trading. Real-time quotes and market information on Mithril can be found at www.otcmarkets.com.

About Mithril Silver & Gold

Mithril Silver & Gold Limited (ASX: MTH) (TSXV: MSG) (OTCQB: MTIRF) is unlocking the high-grade potential of its Copalquin Gold-Silver District in Mexico's prolific Sierra Madre Trend - a region that hosts world class silver-gold deposits. Spanning a district-scale epithermal system with significant historic underground mines and surface workings, Copalquin offers exceptional discovery and resource growth potential. Led by a proven management and technical team with a track record of major gold and silver discoveries and mine development, and backed by a strong balance sheet, Mithril is fully funded for a major drill program targeting multiple high-priority zones.

Cautionary Statement regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things: (i) the Company's expectations that trading on the OTCQB Exchange will broaden visibility, expand U.S. investor access and improve liquidity.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: the Company will remain eligible for and continue to meet OTCQB requirements; the volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency markets; the impact of governmental or regulatory orders or decisions on the digital asset and cryptocurrency sectors; and market volatility for the Company's securities.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, without limitation, that there may be benefits of OTCQB trading (including potential improvements in liquidity, visibility, and U.S. investor interest) and that the digital asset and cryptocurrency sectors will continue to experience growth.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262321

SOURCE: Mithril Silver and Gold Limited
Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Article 53 LR

The Feintool Group's business performance in the first half of 2025 reflects, on the one hand, the ongoing challenging market environment in the automotive sector, particularly in Europe, while on the other hand, it is clear that our strategy is taking effect and the measures initiated to realign Feintool are having an impact in the context of the changed market situation. Sales declined by 14.2% to CHF 334.5 million. In local currencies, the decline amounted to 11.5%. The break-even threshold was further reduced, the operating result (EBIT) before one-off costs amounts to CHF -0.8 million. The outlook for the second half of 2025 is cautious. In the medium term, the megatrends toward low-carbon energy generation, storage, and mobility are creating enormous potential for Feintool's technologies.

Last year, the automotive industry already showed varying developments globally, depending on drive technology and region. This trend continued in the first six months of 2025: Feintool performed well in Asia and the US, at least in terms of units sold, although revenue growth was held back by lower raw material prices and negative currency effects. Europe, on the other hand, continued to be characterized by weak sales of electric vehicles and correspondingly low demand for laminated electrical components. Business with components for combustion and hybrid drives held up comparatively well, with Feintool being able to realize selective price increases. Demand for industrial applications remained subdued, although Feintool was able to gain market share in heat pump components and achieve encouraging sales growth.

Feintool strategy is proving its worth

In this environment, Feintool's strategy of focusing on three core technologies and a global manufacturing network is proving to be the right approach. Feintool is excellently positioned in the fineblanking and forming technologies and is benefiting from the continued strong demand for vehicles with conventional and hybrid drives in all regions, particularly in the US. Feintool is the market leader in this traditional core business and has further strengthened its profitability thanks to an improved cost structure. At the same time, the transition to purely electric vehicles and the use of environmentally friendly energy in general is continuing worldwide, albeit more slowly than expected. Accordingly, e-lamination stamping remains the technology of the future, as does FEINforming for bipolar plates for fuel cells and electrolyzers.

Feintool's successful globalization strategy is also paying off. With 18 plants worldwide, the company produces locally for the respective markets, which ensures that Feintool can meet demand in all markets at all times. In addition, it is only minimally affected by customs tariffs. The exception is Japan, where Feintool manufactures components for export, to a significant extent for Japanese manufacturers in the US.

Break-even threshold further reduced

Given the challenging environment, Feintool performed respectably in the first half of 2025. The Group generated sales of CHF 334.5 million, CHF 55.5 million or 14.2% less than in the same period of the previous year (H1 2024: CHF 390.0 million). In local currencies, the decline amounted to 11.5%.

The operating result (EBIT) before one-off costs amounted to CHF -0.8 million. After one-off costs, the reported operating result (EBIT) was CHF -1.9 million (H1 2024: CHF 0.2 million). Despite lower sales, the operating result (EBIT) thus remained almost stable and the break-even threshold was further reduced. On the one hand, this illustrates the effectiveness of the restructuring program initiated at the Swiss site in Lyss. On the other hand, price increases for selected fineblanked and formed components and cost reductions at suppliers also affected this result. The net result for the first half of 2025 amounted to CHF -5.0 million.

The Feintool Group invested CHF 29.3 million in the first half of 2025, primarily to support growth in North America and Asia (H1 2024: CHF 29.0 million). As a result of ongoing investment activity and weak profitability, free cash flow was negative at CHF -17.7 million in the reporting period (H1 2024: CHF -15.4 million).

As of June 30, 2025, the Feintool Group had net debt of CHF 80.1 million (December 31, 2024: CHF 42.7 million). With equity of CHF 426.4 million, corresponding to an equity ratio of 55.5%, the Feintool Group is in a robust financial position (December 31, 2024: CHF 451.6 million; 55.7%). This financial strength enables us to act as a stable and reliable long-term partner even in a challenging market environment - a significant advantage when it comes to securing major orders and fostering lasting customer relationships.

Weak demand for e-vehicles in Europe

In Europe, the Feintool Group generated sales of CHF 199.6 million in the first half of 2025, 17.5% less than in the same period of the previous year (H1 2024: CHF 241.8 million). In local currencies, the decrease was 15.4%. The reason for the decline in sales is the massive fall in demand for laminated electrical components for electric vehicles. Overcapacity led to planned vehicle programs being postponed, reduced in scope or can-celled. This also affected major projects that Feintool was supplying, such as a leading German car manufacturer that discontinued production of an e-vehicle series at an early stage.

The reorganization of the production of components for electric motors at the Feintool sites in Germany, announced in December 2024, has begun. The corresponding planning and negotiations with customers and employee representatives are at an advanced stage. The adjustment of capacities to the new situation in the European automotive sector is expected to be completed in 2027 and will enable an improvement in profitability.

The restructuring of the fineblanking and forming activities is proceeding according to plan. The relocation of high-volume production from Lyss (CH) to the state-of-the-art European plant in Most (CZ) will be completed by the end of the year, and the Lyss site will focus on its role as a center of excellence for fineblanking tool technology and hydrogen applications.

Presence in Asia is being expanded

At CHF 38.5 million, sales in Asia in the first six months of 2025 were 12.5% lower than in the same period of the previous year (H1 2024: CHF 44.0 million). In local currencies, the decrease was 9.5%. The reasons for the decline are, on the one hand, falling exports from Japan due to the import duties of 25% imposed by the US. On the other hand, end customers whose suppliers Feintool provides with components lost market share due to fierce competition in the automotive market in China.

Overall, Feintool continues to see solid demand for electric motor components in China. For example, Feintool won an order for electric motor cores for one of China's largest commercial vehicle manufacturers, with an estimated lifetime volume of CHF 30 million. The order, which will start in the second half of 2025, underscores Feintool's strong strategic and technological position. The long-term order won last year in the field of hydrogen mobility, which involves the large-scale production of bipolar plates for a leading Chinese manufacturer of fuel cells, is currently in the ramp-up phase. In Japan, business with seat adjuster components in particular has developed well.

Construction work on a new plant in the Pune metropolitan region in India began in the first half of the year. Feintool will initially produce seat adjuster components for leading automotive manufacturers at the plant, which is scheduled to start operations as early as 2026. Feintool is the global leader in these fineblanked components. In a second expansion stage, high-precision formed parts for hybrid applications might also be manufactured.

Strong position in the US

At CHF 98.0 million, sales in the US in the first six months of 2025 were 7.3% lower than in the same period of the previous year (H1 2024: CHF 105.7 million). In local currencies, the decrease was 3.0%. The decline is primarily due to lower raw material prices, which account for around half of product prices, and the weak US dollar. In terms of number of units sold, the volume was significantly higher than in the prior-year period.

In the US region, Feintool was able to build on the excellent performance of the previous year. Supported by its clear number one position in fineblanking and forming as well as its financial strength, Feintool won new orders for combustion and especially hybrid applications and, as in previous years, was able to further expand its market share.

The expansion of the Nashville site was completed and the plant is currently ramping up to full capacity. The costs associated with installing the equipment temporarily reduced the margin in the reporting period.

Short-term outlook cautious, medium-term outlook optimistic

The outlook for the second half of 2025 is cautious. Feintool does not expect the market trend to change significantly. Our largest market, Europe, is likely to remain challenging. Feintool's main focus will be on sustainably improving the Feintool Group's cost structure in Europe. Business in Asia and the US should continue to develop well, and the general market shift towards Asia will become more pronounced. Against this backdrop, Feintool is convinced that the establishment of a new production site in India will pay off in the future.

In the medium term, Feintool is optimistic that the global megatrends towards low-carbon energy generation, storage and mobility will remain intact. These megatrends create enormous potential for the Feintool Group's technologies in structurally growing markets. With this in mind, Feintool reaffirms its goal of achieving an EBIT margin of over 6% in the medium term.

Overview of Key Financial Indicators

01.01.-

30.06.2025

in CHF mio. 01.01.-

30.06.2024

in CHF mio. Change Change in

local currency Net Revenue Feintool Group 334.5 390.1 -14.2% -11.5% Segment Europe 199.6 241.8 -17.5% -15.4% Segment USA 98.0 105.7 -7.3% -3.0% Segment Asia 38.5 44.0 -12.5% -9.5% Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) * 23.1 27.2 -15.0% -10.3% Operating result (EBIT) * -1.9 0.2 -960.4% -748.0% Segment Europe -2.4 -3.6 32.5% 32.5% Segment USA 7.4 7.9 -6.7% -2.6% Segment Asia 1.7 3.9 -55.9% -54.0% Consolidated net profit -5.0 -3.2 -56.1% -58.2% Free Cashflow -17.7 -15.4 * incl. one-off effect 30.06.2025

in CHF mio. 31.12.2024

in CHF mio. Change Balance sheet total 768.8 810.7 -5.2% Equity capital 426.4 451.6 -5.6% Net debt 80.1 42.7 87.9% 30.06.2025 30.06.2024 Change Employees 3 118 3 274 -156 Apprentices 80 85 -5

Webcast and conference call

The presentation of the half-year results 2025 will take place online on 13th August 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM (Swiss time). CEO Lars Reich and CFO Thomas Erne will present the half-year results for 2025 and provide an outlook for the remainder of the financial year.

Registration can be accessed under the following link: https://webcast.meetyoo.de/reg/oQz6bOgfND1x

Link to the webcast: https://www.webcast-eqs.com/feintool-2025-h1

All documents relating to the half-year results 2025 are available at https://www.feintool.com/financial-results

About Feintool

Feintool is an international technology and market leader in electrolamination stamping, fineblanking, and forming. We manufacture high-quality precision parts in large volumes from steel. We supply the automotive industry, energy infrastructure equipment providers, and all manner of high-end industrial manufacturers. Feintool's products perfectly complement the megatrends for renewable energy generation, storage, and usage.

Our core technologies deliver measurable cost-efficiency, consistent quality, and improved productivity. Feintool constantly expands the horizons of its production methods and develops intelligent solutions, innovative tools, and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes in line with customer needs.

Founded in 1959 and headquartered in Switzerland, the company has 18 production sites, 3,100 employees and 80 vocational trainees in Europe, the USA, China, Japan and India.

Feintool is publicly listed and majority-owned by the Artemis Group.

Feintool International Holding AG

Industriering 8

3250 Lyss

Schweiz

Media contact

Joel Hafner

Phone +41 32 387 51 11

corporate.communications@feintool.com

www.feintool.co

The press release can be downloaded from the following link:
- Among top 1% for sustainability leadership -

BASEL, Switzerland, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Jungbunzlauer, a global leader in high-quality, sustainable ingredients from natural sources, today announced it has been awarded a Platinum Medal by EcoVadis, one of the world's most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings. This distinction places Jungbunzlauer in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies assessed by EcoVadis globally for their environmental, social and ethical practices.

The EcoVadis Platinum Medal recognises Jungbunzlauer's outstanding performance across all four key sustainability areas: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.

"We are proud of this recognition which reflects our steadfast commitment to sustainability", said Michael Pohlscheidt, Executive Vice President of Operations at Jungbunzlauer. "For many years, we've considered sustainability a driver of innovation and long-term value for Jungbunzlauer, our customers, colleagues and partners. This reinforces our role as a trusted partner for responsibly produced, naturally derived, high-performance ingredients, helping customers achieve their product and sustainability goals."

Jungbunzlauer's comprehensive approach to sustainability is aligned with internationally recognised standards and frameworks such as UNGC and SBTi. The company consistently integrates sustainable practices throughout its value chain, from sourcing raw materials to product development and manufacturing and distribution processes. This includes efforts in areas such as circularity, renewable energy, water savings, product safety, and responsible supply chains, as well as a strong focus on employee well-being and diversity.

Through these actions, Jungbunzlauer advances its purpose of leading the way in developing naturally better ingredients that enhance everyday life, ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of how it innovates, operates, and serves its customers and communities worldwide.

For more information about Jungbunzlauer's commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility, please visit www.jungbunzlauer.com/sustainability.

Media Contact:

Alina Hermann

+41 61 2955 151

media@jungbunzlauer.com

About Jungbunzlauer

Jungbunzlauer is a leading producer of high-quality, sustainable ingredients from natural sources, serving industries from food and beverage, to nutrition, health, home and personal care, among others. Leading the way in developing naturally better ingredients that enhance everyday life, we are a trusted partner offering a diverse portfolio of texturants, acidulants, sweeteners, minerals, and tailored solutions to meet our customers' evolving needs.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, with state-of-the-art facilities including large-scale fermentation operations across Europe and North America, we proudly serve more than 130 countries worldwide. Founded more than 150 years ago, Jungbunzlauer has grown into a CHF 1.3 billion company, driven by nearly 1,400 dedicated colleagues committed to a healthier, more sustainable future. Learn more at www.jungbunzlauer.com.

About EcoVadis

EcoVadis is a global provider of business sustainability ratings, intelligence, and performance improvement tools for global supply chains. Its evidence-based platform assesses more than 150,000 companies in over 180 countries.

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With a global audience watching in anticipation at launch events and online, Metop Second Generation A1 (Metop-SGA1) also carrying the European Union's Copernicus Sentinel-5 mission lifted off on an Ariane-62 rocket from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 02:37 CEST on 13 August. As the first satellite in the EUMETSAT Polar System Second Generation (EPS-SG) programme, the launch marks a major step toward delivering more precise forecasts and earlier warnings to help protect lives and property from extreme weather. EPS-SG will also support economies across Europe, with an expected return on investment of at least 20 to 1.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812515499/en/

Launch of Metop SGA1 on board of Ariane-62 rocket from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 02:37 CEST on 13 August

Now heading into a polar orbit around 800 kilometres above the Earth's surface, Metop-SGA1 will soon begin transmitting a wealth of timely, high-resolution and high-quality observations from six complementary instruments. These data will continue the Metop series of satellites' role as Europe's most important source of meteorological observations for forecasts ranging from 12 hours to 10 days ahead. For example, Metop-SGA1 observations will help meteorologists improve short- and medium-term weather models that can save lives by enabling early warnings of storms, heatwaves, and other disasters, and help farmers to protect crops, grid operators to manage energy supply, and pilots and sailors to navigate safely.

Phil Evans, EUMETSAT Director-General, said: "Extreme weather has cost Europe hundreds of billions euros and tens of thousands of lives over the past 40 years storms like Boris, Daniel and Hans, record heatwaves and fierce wildfires are just the latest reminders. The launch of Metop-SGA1 is a major step forward in giving national weather services in our member states sharper tools to save lives, protect property, and build resilience against the climate crisis. These positive impacts will be felt even beyond that and over the Atlantic, as Metop-SGA1 is Europe's first contribution to the Joint Polar System with the United States' National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This milestone reflects years of teamwork across EUMETSAT, the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Union, the French Space Agency (CNES), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), Airbus, Thales Alenia Space, and many others. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we work to ensure the satellite settles into orbit and starts delivering the vital data it was built to provide."

At the heart of better forecasts

More than 95% of the data used in numerical weather prediction comes from satellites -a share set to grow as Metop Second Generation satellites enter service. Unlike geostationary spacecraft fixed above the equator, polar-orbiting satellites like Metop-SGA1 travel north to south as Earth rotates beneath them, delivering global coverage and a rich variety of observations. Over the next two decades, three consecutive pairs of Metop-SG satellites will loop the planet 14 times daily, with advanced instruments collecting high-resolution data on the atmosphere, oceans, ice sheets, and land surfaces.

The Metop-SGA1 satellite hosts a total of six atmospheric sounding and imaging instrument missions. The payload includes the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer New Generation (IASI-NG), METimage (a visual and infrared imager), the Microwave Sounder (MWS), a Radio Occultation sounder, and the Multi-Viewing, Multi-Channel, Multi-Polarisation Imager (3MI) the latter being an entirely new instrument designed to enhance the monitoring of aerosols and cloud properties. Metop-SGA1 also carries the European Union's Copernicus Sentinel-5 mission, which will supply detailed data on atmospheric composition and trace gases that affect air quality, helping health authorities to monitor air pollution.

Christoph Kautz, Director for Space Policy, Earth Observation and Satellite Navigation at the European Commission, said: "The successful launch of Copernicus Sentinel-5 is a testimony to our close cooperation with EUMETSAT and is an outstanding achievement that will strengthen Europe's capacity to monitor pollution and advance climate science. Thanks to the synergies with EUMETSAT's meteorological mission, it was decided to embark Sentinel-5 on Metop-SGA1. This joint approach not only optimises the overall mission costs but also lowers the environmental impact by minimising the number of launches required.''

Simonetta Cheli, Director of Earth Observation Programmes at ESA, said: "Metop-SGA1 and Copernicus Sentinel-5 show the power of European collaboration in building long-term missions that help us take the pulse of our planet. This successful launch will ultimately give us an unprecedented view of our atmosphere and climate. The data will allow us to monitor air quality, track greenhouse gases, and observe clouds, trace gases and ozone in more detail than ever. By feeding these insights into models and tools, we can strengthen climate action, improve public health, and deliver benefits for communities across Europe and beyond."

For further updates on Metop-SGA1, visit EUMETSAT's launch hub, which features news, interviews, and insights into the satellite's journey.

Find all relevant information, biographies of speakers, videos and testimonials on our dedicated press page.

About EUMETSAT

EUMETSAT, Europe's meteorological satellite agency, monitors the weather and climate from space. Based in Darmstadt, Germany, EUMETSAT provides its 30 member states with meteorological imagery and data that are essential for keeping their communities safe and for the benefit of critical sectors of their economies.

For more information, see the EUMETSAT website.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812515499/en/

Contacts:

Media Relations EUMETSAT:

Tel.: +49 6151 807 7320

Email: press@eumetsat.int

www.eumetsat.int
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.



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"Driven by urgent unmet needs and scientific advances, the Alzheimer's Disease DMT market is poised for rapid growth as pharmaceutical companies shift their focus to multi-target therapies that address the complex pathology of the disease."

BOSTON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest study from BCC Research, the "Disease-Modifying Therapies for Alzheimer's Disease: Global Markets" is projected to reach $13.1 billion by the end of 2030, growing at a CAGR of 67.8% during the forecast period of 2025-2030.

The Alzheimer's disease (AD) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) market is in its early stages, with lecanemab being the first fully approved DMT by the U.S. FDA in July 2023. Several other DMTs in late-stage trials could significantly expand the market if approved. BCC Research forecasts future revenues based on current products and potential candidates. The report analyzes the market by target type (anti-amyloid and emerging targets), drug (Leqembi, Kisunla, and others), molecule type (large and small), and region (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and the Middle East and Africa).

This report is particularly relevant today because the Alzheimer's disease (AD) DMT market is in its early stage of development, with several therapies currently in late-stage clinical trials. If these therapies are approved, they could significantly expand the market and reshape treatment options. In this context, studying the AD DMTs market is both timely and crucial for pharmaceutical companies and industry stakeholders. The report offers essential market and business insights, helping participants in the AD drugs industry make informed decisions and prepare for upcoming opportunities.

The factors driving the market's growth include:

High Unmet Need in AD Treatment: Alzheimer's disease currently lacks effective long-term treatments, with existing options only offering temporary symptom relief. This creates a strong demand for therapies that can slow or halt disease progression, encouraging investment, innovation, and regulatory support for disease-modifying therapies.

Use of Biomarkers to Accelerate Approvals of AD DMTs: Biomarkers like amyloid-beta and tau proteins help detect Alzheimer's early and track its progression. Their use in clinical trials allows faster and more precise evaluation of new therapies, enabling quicker regulatory approvals and more targeted treatment development.

Request a sample copy of the global and regional markets for disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease report.

Report Synopsis

Report Metric Details Base year considered 2024 Forecast period considered 2025-2030 Base year market size $235.8 million Market size forecast $13.1 billion Growth rate CAGR of 67.8% for the forecast period of 2025-2030 Segments covered Target Type, Drug Type, Drug Molecule Type, and Region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa Market drivers  High unmet need in AD treatment.  Use of biomarkers to accelerate AD DMTs approval.

Interesting facts:

As of May 2025, over half of the AD therapeutic candidates in phase 3 trials are disease modifying small molecules (Clinicaltrials.gov).

There are very few DMTs targeting the moderate to advanced stages of AD.

Emerging startups:

AgeneBio Inc.: The company is investigating AGB101 (levetiracetam) in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials for the treatment of hippocampal overactivity and to assess its ability to control progression to Alzheimer's dementia. Currently, no treatments have shown these benefits.

The company is investigating AGB101 (levetiracetam) in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials for the treatment of hippocampal overactivity and to assess its ability to control progression to Alzheimer's dementia. Currently, no treatments have shown these benefits. TauRx Pharmaceuticals: TauRx's research centers on tau aggregation inhibitors (TAIs), which aim to prevent or reverse the formation of tau protein tangles in the brain. TRx0237 is a late-stage AD therapeutic candidate. It is an oral tau aggregation inhibitor designed for early intervention to modify the underlying disease process and slow the progression of AD.

The report addresses the following questions:

What are the projected size and growth rate of the Alzheimer's disease-modifying therapies market?

- The global Alzheimer's DMT market was estimated at $235.8 million in 2024. The market is projected to reach $13.1 billion in by the end of 2030, growing at a CAGR of 67.8% during the forecast period.



Which market segments are covered in the report?

- Target type, drug, molecule type, and region.



Which target type will be dominant through 2030?

- By target type, the anti-amyloid segment is expected to be the largest market by the end of 2030.



Which molecule type market is growing the fastest?

- The large molecule segment is the fastest growing market.



What are the key challenges in of the market?

- Modest clinical benefits, significant risk of side effects, and the high cost of approved DMTs remain challenges to the widespread adoption of these drugs.

Market leaders include:

ALZHEON INC.

ANAVEX LIFE SCIENCES CORP.

ANNOVIS BIO INC.

BIOGEN

BIOVIE INC.

EISAI CO. LTD.

JOHNSON & JOHNSON

LILLY

NOVO NORDISK A/S

TAURX PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Related reports:

Neurology Market: A BCC Research Overview: This report offers a detailed analysis of the global neurology therapeutics market, segmented by conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, autism, psychotic disorders, multiple sclerosis, and brain tumors. It explores drug classes, market dynamics, pipeline developments, competitive landscape, and regional trends across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World, providing insights into current and future market potential.

Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutics and Diagnostics: Global Markets: This report provides an overview of the global Alzheimer's disease diagnostics and therapeutics market, focusing exclusively on biomarker tests for diagnostics and approved pharmacological treatments for therapeutics. It excludes cognitive tests, neuroimaging, procedural interventions, and off-label drug use. The market is segmented by test type, drug class, disease stage, and region, and includes analysis of clinical trials, innovations, and emerging trends.

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.

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Neotech Metals Corp. (CSE: NTMC) (OTCQB: NTMFF) (FSE: V690) ("Neotech" or the "Company"), a mineral exploration company, is pleased to welcome Dr. Alexander Cushing (PhD, MFin, P.Eng) as a technical advisor to the board.

Dr. Alexander Cushing joins is a highly respected metallurgist with a proven track record bridging academic innovation and real-world application in mineral processing. With multiple published works on alternative metallurgical processes including adsorption techniques critical to unlocking value in the rare earth and critical minerals sector-Dr. Cushing brings a depth of technical insight that directly supports the advancement of Neotech's portfolio of projects. His industry experience includes tenure at SGS Lakefield, one of the world's leading metallurgical laboratories, and his current role as an independent consultant advising on complex mining projects worldwide. In this capacity, he evaluates metallurgical performance, underwrites reclamation bonds, and assesses both technical and financial risk across precious metals, base metals, and rare earth developments, positioning him to play a key role in maximizing the economic potential of Neotech's projects.

"We're excited to welcome Dr. Cushing to the team as we continue to strengthen our technical expertise," said Reagan Glazier, CEO. "His depth of metallurgical knowledge and industry experience will be instrumental in advancing our projects, driving innovation in processing, and ultimately unlocking significant future value for our shareholders."

The Company also announces it has granted 1,525,000 options to directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. The options vest of a period of 12 months are exercisable at $0.40 for a five-year term.

About Neotech Metals Corp.

Neotech Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration company dedicated to discovering and developing valuable mineral resources in promising regions around the world. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, Neotech is positioned to make a positive impact while maximizing the potential of its exploration properties.

The Company is a mineral exploration company based in Vancouver, B.C., and owns 100% of it's TREO Rare Earth Element Property, located 90km North East of Prince George, British Columbia, and 100% of it's Foothills project located near the Monashee Mountain Range. The Company also holds options on the EBB nickel-cobalt property in British Columbia, Canada.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain of the statements and information in this press release constitute "forward-looking information". Any statements or information that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "estimates", "intends", "targets", "goals", "forecasts", "objectives", "potential" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be considered forward-looking information. The Company's forward-looking information is based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this press release and include but are not limited to information with respect to achieving a construction decision, and the timing and results thereof. Other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's assumptions, beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, or changes in any other events affecting such statements or information. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The CSE has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262279

SOURCE: Neotech Metals Corp.
Global IT firm FPT officially announced the launch of its new artificial intelligence (AI) platform, FleziPT. Designed to deliver end-to-end, customized AI-powered transformation solutions, FleziPT empowers organizations to achieve exceptional speed, precision, and quality in their transformation journeys. This launch strengthens FPT's position as an AI-first company with full-stack AI capabilities.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812864322/en/

FPT Launches AI-First Platform FleziPT, Accelerating Global Enterprise Transformation

FleziPT is backed by the company's AI-driven software development life cycle (SDLC), delivering intelligent solutions across key domains. It leverages an AI-augmented workforce, including 12,000 skilled software engineers proficient in AI and a million digital workers in the making globally.

The AI Platform allows enterprises to embed AI agents throughout every phase of software development, allowing tasks that previously took months in waterfall models or 4-6 weeks in agile sprints to be completed within days. This shift results in:

Up to 60% faster development

Over 50% reduction in rework

30% boost in productivity

These gains support faster iteration, concurrent workflows, and rapid delivery of results, driving precision and innovation at scale. FleziPT's AI-driven SDLC also fuels FPT's continuous reinvention, enabling real-time adaptation to evolving market demands through actionable AI insights.

Built on almost three decades of digital transformation expertise, FleziPT features a suite of proprietary AI toolsets, including solutions such as AgentVista, CodeVista, and TestVista. It also offers tailored solutions for vertical industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, automotive, and energy, including AIDP and IvyChat, winners of the Globee Technology Awards and International Business Awards in 2024 and 2025.

To support the next-level AI transformation for global businesses across industries, FleziPT is also underpinned by AI-specific workforce accelerators. This includes AI education across all levels for FPT employees and at FPT University, which currently graduates 2,000 AI and Data Engineering students annually. FPT also fosters a co-creation relationship with its clients through AI labs and hackathons to address their specific challenges. These efforts are strengthened by FPT's strategic partnerships with global leading AI players, including Microsoft, SAP, Landing AI, Mila Quebec AI Institute, and notably NVIDIA with the joint initiative of FPT AI Factory. The company aims to train an additional 1,500+ AI experts by the end of 2025 and 50,000 specialists by 2030.

"We are not stopping at providing AI services. FPT is a full-fledged AI Global System Integrator, delivering scalable and trusted enterprise-grade AI solutions. We remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering clients worldwide with end-to-end AI enablement across industries, while upholding ethical and responsible AI practices," said Pham Minh Tuan, FPT Software Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President, FPT Corporation.

The platform was launched during FPT's 2025 global client event, themed "Danang 20 Years of Innovation", which marks the company's two decades of growth in the city now central to its tech and education ecosystem. The event welcomed over 400 industry leaders and experts from around the world, featured an AI-focused tech exhibition and conference, spotlighting how AI is reshaping industries and reinforcing Vietnam's position as a global innovation hub.

About FPT

FPT Corporation (FPT) is a globally leading technology and IT services provider headquartered in Vietnam and operates in three core sectors: Technology, Telecommunications, and Education. Over more than three decades, FPT has consistently delivered impactful solutions to millions of individuals and tens of thousands of organizations worldwide. Committed to elevating Vietnam's position on the global tech map and delivering world-class AI-enabled solutions for global enterprises, the Corporation focuses on three critical transformations: Digital Transformation, Intelligence Transformation, and Green Transformation. In 2024, FPT reported a total revenue of USD 2.47 billion and a workforce of over 54,000 employees across its core businesses. For more information about FPT's global IT services, please visit https://fptsoftware.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812864322/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact

Mai Duong (Ms.)

FPT Corporation

FPT Software PR Manager

MCP.PR@fpt.com
OSLO, Norway, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hexagon Agility, a business of Hexagon Composites, has received an inaugural order for Mobile Pipeline modules from Watani, The National Advanced Natural Gas Company of Jordan. The Mobile Pipeline ADR X-Store 45ft modules will enable Watani to safely and efficiently deliver compressed natural gas (CNG) and support Jordan's national energy strategy.

The order represents an estimated value of USD 6.9 million (approx. NOK 70 million).

"We are proud to take this important step with Hexagon Agility as we accelerate the delivery of clean, reliable energy across Jordan," said Khalil Abu Al-Rubb, Chairman of Jordan LNG, joint owner of Watani. "The Mobile Pipeline solution is a natural fit for our ambitions because it offers the flexibility, safety, and efficiency we need to reach industrial zones and remote communities alike."

Watani was created in alignment with Jordan's national strategy to secure reliable energy supplies and reduce dependence on imports. The company is the result of years of dedicated efforts to fulfill the Kingdom's vision of advancing toward sustainable and clean energy while utilizing national resources to support industries and the economy.

"This is a strategic leap toward a more sustainable and efficient energy future for Jordan," said Khaled Al-Zoubi, General Manager of Watani. "With Hexagon Agility, we have a strong supplier to establish the required infrastructure to deliver this energy to our customers."

"We are honored to provide our industry-leading Mobile Pipeline solutions to Watani, a key regional leader supporting Jordan's energy ambitions," said Eric Bippus, Chief Commercial Officer, Hexagon Agility. "As demand for improved energy solutions grows across emerging markets and the Middle East, we remain committed to unlocking regional energy production and driving global energy transformation."

About the market

The Government of Jordan is advancing its national energy strategy and promoting compressed natural gas as the cleaner, more cost-effective alternative to diesel and heavy fuel oil. Through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, the government is encouraging the use of CNG. These efforts are central to the Kingdom's long-term goals of achieving energy independence and lowering energy emissions and costs across key sectors.

Timing

Deliveries of the modules are scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2025.

For more information:

Berit-Cathrin Hyvik, Senior Director, Communications, Hexagon Composites

Telephone: +47 988 92 161 | berit-cathrin.hoyvik@hexagongroup.com



David Bandele, CFO, Hexagon Composites

Telephone: +47 920 91 483 | david.bandele@hexagongroup.com

About Watani:

Watani, The National Advanced Natural Gas Company, was launched in 2025 as a joint initiative between JoPetrol and Jordan Gas. The company is responsible for developing and operating a nationwide network for transporting and distributing compressed natural gas (CNG) in Jordan, with a focus on the industrial and transportation sectors. Watani plays a central role in Jordan's energy transformation, aiming to enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and expand access to natural gas across the Kingdom.

About Hexagon Agility:

Hexagon Agility, a business of Hexagon Composites, is a leading global provider of clean fuel solutions for commercial vehicles and bulk gas transportation. Its product offerings include (renewable) natural gas bulk distribution systems of compressed gases, lightweight Type 4 composite natural gas cylinders, and (renewable) natural gas fuel systems. These products transport clean gaseous fuels and enable vehicles to reduce emissions while lowering operating costs. Learn more at hexagonagility.com and follow @HexagonAgility on LinkedIn.

About Hexagon Composites ASA:

Hexagon delivers safe and innovative solutions for a cleaner energy future. Our solutions enable storage, transportation and conversion to clean energy in a wide range of mobility and industrial applications. Learn more at hexagongroup.com and follow @HexagonASA on LinkedIn.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/hexagon-composites-asa/r/hexagon-agility-receives-inaugural-mobile-pipeline---order-from-watani-in-jordan,c4217445

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hexagon-agility-receives-inaugural-mobile-pipeline-order-from-watani-in-jordan-302528841.html
Miami, Florida and Fort Lauderdale, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Priority Fulfillment, a private third-party logistics provider built by and for operators, has announced the opening of a new 30,000 square foot facility in South Florida. The expansion increases the company's fulfillment capacity to meet growing demand from direct-to-consumer (DTC) and Amazon brands seeking operational accuracy, flexibility, and marketplace expertise at scale.

Priority Fulfillment Expands Operations with 30,000 Sq Ft South Florida Facility

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Founded by longtime operator Marc Furmanski, Priority Fulfillment began as an internal solution to support a portfolio of DTC brands and Amazon storefronts. As frustrations with traditional 3PLs mounted-missed SLAs, weak integrations, and limited Amazon prep-the company was built to solve these challenges from a brand-owner's perspective.

The model gained traction. Without marketing or outbound sales, Priority Fulfillment began absorbing volume from brands in luxury apparel, footwear, beauty, and consumer goods. Its South Florida operation, paired with proprietary inventory management software, has helped clients improve order accuracy, shipping turnaround, and inventory visibility compared to legacy providers.

"Our new facility gives us room to grow while maintaining the performance standards we're known for," said Marc Furmanski. "We built this for operators, not as a pitch, and the market responded. Now we're scaling deliberately-with the right systems and the right clients."

As e-commerce brands increasingly prioritize profitability and operational control, Priority Fulfillment's expansion positions it to serve a new wave of growth-stage companies looking for reliable, performance-first logistics solutions. The company is now selectively onboarding brands that meet its volume, complexity, and alignment criteria.

About the company: Priority Fulfillment is a private, operator-founded logistics company that offers warehousing, pick and pack, kitting, B2B shipping, returns management, and real-time inventory tools for direct-to-consumer brands. Headquartered in South Florida, the company supports some of the fastest-scaling consumer brands in the U.S. with a focus on execution, transparency, and uptime.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259903

SOURCE: Plentisoft
HEALWELL achieved quarterly revenue from continuing operations of $40.5 million in Q2-2025, 645% higher than the $5.4 million generated in Q2-2024. Revenue growth in the quarter was largely driven by the Orion Health acquisition, resulting in a record 1,064% year-over-year increase in the Company's Healthcare Software business compared to Q2-2024.

During Q2-2025, HEALWELL reported positive Adjusted EBITDA of $1.9 million, compared to an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $3.7 million in Q2-2024. This marks the Company's first quarter of positive Adjusted EBITDA, reflecting strong operating fundamentals and accelerating business momentum.

HEALWELL's Board of Directors has decided to seek strategic alternatives for the Company's clinical research and patient services business units and has signed a number of non-binding LOIs to investigate this effort with the goal to become a pure-play digital SaaS and Services company with a focus on enterprise grade data science and AI offerings to health systems globally.

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - HEALWELL AI Inc. (TSX: AIDX) (OTCQX: HWAIF) ("HEALWELL" or the "Company"), a healthcare artificial intelligence company focused on preventative care, is pleased to announce its unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. A summary of the Company's financial and operational results is set out below, and more detailed information is contained in the interim financial statements and related management discussion and analysis, which are available on the Company's SEDAR+ page at www.sedarplus.ca. Financial measures described as "Adjusted" in this news release are non-IFRS financial measures and may not be comparable to other similar measures disclosed by other companies. Please see Non-IFRS Financial Measures below for more information.

James Lee, Chief Executive Officer of HEALWELL, commented, "Q2 represents an exciting and major inflection point for HEALWELL as we achieved positive Adjusted EBITDA for the first time. This milestone marks a shift in our financial trajectory and validates the scalability of our healthcare software business and AI-driven business model. With Orion Health now part of our ecosystem, we gain access to one of the world's most advanced healthcare data infrastructures, enabling us to seamlessly deploy our AI solutions into both public and private health systems. Our software business is seeing significant revenue integration benefits already and we are seeing tremendous opportunities from cross platform synergies globally. HEALWELL's strategy focuses on deeply embedding AI and data science into our software platforms, accelerating adoption and enhancing value for healthcare providers. This approach provides a direct path to market, leveraging existing customer bases and contracts to enable healthcare systems worldwide to adopt AI solutions more readily. Our focus is now firmly on AI and healthcare software innovation."

James Lee further adds, "We are also very pleased to have the Board's support to divest of our PolyClinic and Biopharma Services businesses. This will allow us to become a pure-play software and services company with a keen focus on enterprise grade data science and Artificial Intelligence offerings with healthy margins and excellent growth prospects. We also have several strong potential tuck-in M&A opportunities that we've identified as we move forward and execute on our growth plan."

Anthony Lam, Chief Financial Officer of HEALWELL, commented, "Our Q2 results reflect the strength of HEALWELL's expanding AI and healthcare software business. Revenue increased by 645%, driven by the acquisition of Orion Health, which is already making a significant contribution to our financial performance. Our AI segment delivered record revenues-exceeding $5 million in the first half of the year-driven by strong momentum across our platforms. We're focused on optimizing our operations, integrating our acquisitions, and continuing to upsell our AI-driven products. With $19 million in cash, we are well positioned to capitalize on future organic growth and acquisition opportunities. HEALWELL as part of the WELL Health family is a unique platform to deliver data driven insights at scale and is determined to focus and capture that opportunity."

Second Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

Significant financial highlights for the Company's continuing operations during the three months ended June 30, 2025 included:

HEALWELL achieved quarterly revenue from continuing operations of $40.5 million in Q2-2025, an increase of 645% compared to revenue of $5.4 million generated in Q2-2024. The increase in revenue is driven primarily by the acquisition of Orion Health.

HEALWELL achieved Gross Profit of $21.3 million during Q2-2025, an increase of 764% compared to $2.5 million in Q2-2024. The increase is due to the acquisitions of Verosource, Mutuo and Orion and strong performance in the Khure Health business.

HEALWELL achieved a Gross Margin percentage of 52.5% during Q2-2025, compared to 45.2% in Q2-2024. The increase in Gross Margin percentage is due to the addition of higher margin healthcare software revenue from the Orion Health acquisition.

During Q2-2025, HEALWELL reported positive Adjusted EBITDA of $1.9 million, compared to an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $3.7 million in Q2-2024. This marks the Company's first quarter of positive Adjusted EBITDA, reflecting strong operating fundamentals and accelerating business momentum, a year-over-year improvement of approximately 152% in Adjusted EBITDA performance.

As of June 30, 2025, HEALWELL had $19 million in cash, compared to $9.4 million as of December 31, 2024.

Second Quarter 2025 Business and Operational Highlights

Significant business and operational highlights for the Company during the three months ended June 30, 2025 included:

Acquisition of Orion Health: On April 1, 2025, HEALWELL completed the acquisition of Orion Health, a leading provider of healthcare data interoperability solutions based in Auckland, New Zealand. The acquisition of Orion Health is expected to contribute approximately $100 million in annual SaaS and services revenue and to propel the Company to being profitable on an Adjusted EBITDA basis. Furthermore, Orion Health expands HEALWELL's global reach, adding over 70 large enterprise customers across 11 countries, providing HEALWELL with a significant new channel of distribution for its AI and disease detection services. This acquisition establishes HEALWELL as a global leader in healthcare AI and interoperability, with the combined company poised to deliver innovative healthcare solutions at scale across multiple regions.

On April 1, 2025, HEALWELL completed the acquisition of Orion Health, a leading provider of healthcare data interoperability solutions based in Auckland, New Zealand. The acquisition of Orion Health is expected to contribute approximately $100 million in annual SaaS and services revenue and to propel the Company to being profitable on an Adjusted EBITDA basis. Furthermore, Orion Health expands HEALWELL's global reach, adding over 70 large enterprise customers across 11 countries, providing HEALWELL with a significant new channel of distribution for its AI and disease detection services. This acquisition establishes HEALWELL as a global leader in healthcare AI and interoperability, with the combined company poised to deliver innovative healthcare solutions at scale across multiple regions. Exercise of Call Option by WELL Health: On April 1, 2025, WELL Health Technologies Corp. ("WELL") exercised its call right to acquire a majority controlling interest in HEALWELL AI, coinciding with HEALWELL's acquisition of Orion Health. As part of this strategic move, WELL acquired 30.8 million Class A Subordinate Voting Shares and 30.8 million Class B Multiple Voting Shares of HEALWELL. Additionally, WELL converted all of its convertible debentures and exercised all outstanding share purchase warrants, resulting in post-exercise ownership of approximately 37% of the economic interest and 69% of the voting rights in HEALWELL on a non-diluted basis.

On April 1, 2025, WELL Health Technologies Corp. ("WELL") exercised its call right to acquire a majority controlling interest in HEALWELL AI, coinciding with HEALWELL's acquisition of Orion Health. As part of this strategic move, WELL acquired 30.8 million Class A Subordinate Voting Shares and 30.8 million Class B Multiple Voting Shares of HEALWELL. Additionally, WELL converted all of its convertible debentures and exercised all outstanding share purchase warrants, resulting in post-exercise ownership of approximately 37% of the economic interest and 69% of the voting rights in HEALWELL on a non-diluted basis. Strategic Expansion into the U.S. Market: On June 11, 2025, HEALWELL announced its official entry into the U.S. healthcare market, marking a major milestone in the Company's international growth strategy. Leveraging Orion Health's two-decade presence across eight U.S. states and its established health data infrastructure, HEALWELL is launching a suite of modular, AI-enabled tools designed to support AI-powered clinical search, patient summarization, risk stratification, and real-world evidence generation-targeting health systems, payers, HIEs, and life sciences organizations.

Events Subsequent to June 30, 2025

Significant business and operational highlights for the Company subsequent to June 30, 2025 included:

Full Acquisition of Pentavere: On July 14, 2025, the Company exercised its call option to acquire the remaining 49% of Pentavere Research Group Inc., gaining full ownership of the developer behind the DARWEN AI-driven patient identification platform. With full control of Pentavere, HEALWELL is accelerating integration across its AI portfolio and expanding commercialization of its solutions into global healthcare systems, reinforcing its leadership in AI-powered preventative care.

On July 14, 2025, the Company exercised its call option to acquire the remaining 49% of Pentavere Research Group Inc., gaining full ownership of the developer behind the DARWEN AI-driven patient identification platform. With full control of Pentavere, HEALWELL is accelerating integration across its AI portfolio and expanding commercialization of its solutions into global healthcare systems, reinforcing its leadership in AI-powered preventative care. AI Segment Growth: On July 16, 2025, HEALWELL provided a corporate update highlighting strong momentum in its AI business segment. In the first half of 2025, this business segment achieved revenues of $5.1 million, representing 223% year-over-year revenue growth.

Webcast and Conference Call Details:

HEALWELL will be holding a conference call and simultaneous webcast to discuss its financial results on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm ET (10:00 am PT). The call will be hosted by James Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Alexander Dobranowski, President, and Anthony Lam, Chief Financial Officer. Please dial-in 10 minutes prior to the start of the call.

Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Time: 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT

Webcast link: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14139

Toll-Free North America: 1-833-752-3509

International Toll: 1-647-846-7993

When connecting to the conference call via phone, please dial in 10 minutes prior to the start of the call and ask to be joined into the "HEALWELL AI Inc. Conference Call."

Selected Financial Information

(in thousands of dollars, except percentages and per share amounts)





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Non-IFRS Financial Measures

The terms Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin used in this document do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS, may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other companies and should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, IFRS financial measures. Readers are advised to review the section entitled "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" in the Company's management discussion and analysis for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, available on the Company's SEDAR+ page at www.sedarplus.ca, for a detailed explanation of the composition of these measures and their uses.

The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin to net income (loss) for the three-months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024:





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Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin are non-IFRS measures. Please see "Non-IFRS Measures" above for an explanation of the composition of these measures and their usefulness, and "Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures" below for a reconciliation of these measures to the IFRS measures found in the Financial Statements.

Segmented Revenue





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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James Lee

Chief Executive Officer

HEALWELL AI Inc.

About HEALWELL

HEALWELL is a healthcare artificial intelligence company focused on preventative care. Its mission is to improve healthcare and save lives through early identification and detection of disease. Using its own proprietary technology, the Company is developing and commercializing advanced clinical decision support systems that can help healthcare providers detect rare and chronic diseases, improve efficiency of their practice and ultimately help improve patient health outcomes. HEALWELL is executing a strategy centered around developing and acquiring technology and clinical sciences capabilities that complement the Company's road map. HEALWELL is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "AIDX" and on the OTC Exchange under the symbol "HWAIF". To learn more about HEALWELL, please visit https://healwell.ai/.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release, constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements about the potential for HEALWELL and its partners to continually leverage advancements in expert AI technologies to develop new products and services or enhance existing ones; the anticipated impact of the addition of Orion Health on the Company's financial performance; the potential for one or more transactions to divest all or a portion of the Company's clinical research and patient services businesses; and potential M&A opportunities; and are based on assumptions, expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "accelerating", "explore", "possible", "opportunities", "potential", "future", "expected", "to propel", "poised to", "is launching", "expanding", "subject to" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain future conditions, actions, events or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "can" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms . Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as a number of specific factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by HEALWELL as of the date of such statements, are outside of HEALWELL's control and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies which could result in the forward-looking statements ultimately being entirely or partially incorrect or untrue. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on various assumptions, including, but not limited to, the following: HEALWELL's ability to integrate Orion Health personnel, products, services, customers and relationships; HEALWELL's ability to maintain and leverage is relationships with its commercial partners; the continued adoption of the software, tools and solutions created by HEALWELL; that HEALWELL will be successful in identifying, executing and integrating new acquisitions, investments and/or partnerships; HEALWELL's ability to successfully negotiate one or more transactions to divest of all or a portion of its clinical research and patient services business units, the terms on which those transactions may be negotiated, and the ability of the parties to obtain any necessary approvals to implement those transactions; the stability of general economic and market conditions; sufficiency of working capital and access to financing; HEALWELL's ability to comply with applicable laws and regulations; HEALWELL's continued compliance with third party intellectual property rights; the effects of competition in the industry; the requirement for increasingly innovative product solutions and service offerings; technologies working as intended or at all; trends in customer growth and the adoption of new technologies in the industry; and that the risk factors noted below, collectively, do not have a material impact on HEALWELL's business, operations, revenues and/or results. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections, or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct, and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved.

Known and unknown risk factors, many of which are beyond the control of HEALWELL, could cause the actual results of HEALWELL to differ materially from the results, performance, achievements, or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include but are not limited to those factors which are discussed under the section entitled "Risk Factors" in HEALWELL's most recent annual information form dated March 31, 2025, which is available under HEALWELL's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. The risk factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect HEALWELL and the reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. 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. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. HEALWELL disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. All of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements.

This news release contains future-oriented financial information and financial outlook information (collectively, "FOFI") about the expected annual revenue contributions of Orion Health, which are subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations, and qualifications as set out in the above paragraphs. The actual financial results of Orion Health may vary from the amounts set out herein and such variation may be material. HEALWELL and its management believe that the FOFI has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting management's best estimates and judgments. However, because this information is subjective and subject to numerous risks, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Except as required by applicable securities laws, HEALWELL undertakes no obligation to update such FOFI. FOFI contained in this news release was made as of the date hereof and was provided for the purpose of providing further information about HEALWELL's anticipated future business operations for the coming year. Readers are cautioned that the FOFI contained in this news release should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262334

SOURCE: HEALWELL AI
TAMPA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / The Mosaic Company (NYSE:MOS) announced today that it has entered into an agreement to sell Mosaic Potassio Mineracao Ltda (MPM), the entity that operates the Taquari-Vassouras potash mine located in Rosario do Catete, Sergipe, Brazil, to VL Mineracao Ltda. Upon the closing of the transaction, VL Mineracao will pay Mosaic up to $27 million (USD) in cash including $12 million upon closing, $10 million one year after closing and $5 million over six years, and will assume responsibility for approximately $22 million in asset retirement obligations (ARO). The transaction is subject to obtaining approval by the Brazilian Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) and other customary closing conditions. Mosaic expects the transaction to close by the end of 2025. Beginning in the third quarter, Mosaic will record the asset as "held for sale" with an expected book loss of $50-$70 million.

Mosaic's operations at the Taquari mine require capital investments exceeding $25 million to ensure continued viability. Mosaic believes that the capital required to continue to own and operate Taquari has more attractive uses elsewhere within the company. VL Mineracao has expressed a strong interest in making the necessary investments to extend the Taquari operations to the benefit of the local economy, employees and the community.

"One of our priorities is to elevate our core business, and one way to do that is by reallocating capital to ensure we're investing where we have the greatest capacity to succeed. This sale advances progress toward that priority - allowing us to focus capital on opportunities where we have a competitive advantage and are expected to generate higher returns," said Bruce Bodine, Mosaic's President and CEO.

"This agreement allows us to contribute to the development of Brazilian agriculture, including maintaining and expanding the domestic potash supply in the fertilizer market, as we are confident the mine will be profitable and efficient under our ownership and operating model," said Daniel Moreira, CEO of VL Holding.

About The Mosaic Company

The Mosaic Company is one of the world's leading producers and marketers of concentrated phosphate and potash crop nutrients. Through its Mosaic Biosciences platform, the company is also advancing the next generation biological solutions to help farmers improve nutrient use efficiency and crop performance sustainably. Mosaic provides a single-source supply of phosphate, potash, and biological products for the global agriculture industry. More information on the company is available at www.mosaicco.com.

About VL Mineracaoand VL Holding

VL Mineracao Ltda is a subsidiary ofVL Holding, a privately-owned Brazilian agribusiness group with 20 years of expertise in farming and genetics. Its shareholders belong to a family with more than 70 years of experience in agriculture and a diversified footprint in mining, food, banking and energy, among several other businesses.

Contacts:

Investors:

Jason Tremblay, 813-775-4282

jason.tremblay@mosaicco.com

Joan Tong, CFA, 863-640-0826

joan.tong@mosaicco.com

Media:

Ben Pratt, 813-775-4206

benjamin.pratt@mosaicco.com

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about the anticipated sale of Mosaic Potassio Mineracao Ltda, the entity that operates the Taquari-Vassouras potash plant located in Sergipe, Brazil; the expected timing and terms of the transaction; the potential financial and operational impacts of the sale; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the applicable agreement; and expectations regarding the Company's future and strategic direction. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the Company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability to complete the transaction on the expected terms and timeline; required regulatory approvals, including approval by the Brazilian Administrative Council for Economic Defense; political and economic instability and changes in government policies and regulations; changes in market conditions; and operational disruptions; as well as other risks and uncertainties reported from time to time in The Mosaic Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: The Mosaic Company

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/food-and-beverage-products/mosaic-announces-agreement-for-sale-of-potash-mining-operations-in-brazi-1060200
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Purepoint Uranium Group Inc. (TSXV: PTU) (OTCQB: PTUUF) ("Purepoint" or the "Company") announced a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $3,000,000 from the sale of a combination of the following:

Saskatchewan flow-through units of the Company (each, a " SFT Unit ") at a price of $0.65 per SFT Unit with each SFT Unit consisting of one common share of the Company to be issued on a "flow through" basis pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each a " SFT Share ") and one common share purchase warrant (each, a " Warrant "); and

") at a price of $0.65 per SFT Unit with each SFT Unit consisting of one common share of the Company to be issued on a "flow through" basis pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each a " ") and one common share purchase warrant (each, a " "); and National flow-through units of the Company (each, a "NFT Unit", together with the SFT Unit, the "CFT Units") at a price of $0.59 per NFT Unit with each NFT Unit consisting of one common share of the Company to be issued on a "flow through" basis pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each a "NFT Share", together with the SFT Shares, the "FT Shares") and one Warrant.

Each Warrant entitles its holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each a "Warrant Share") at an exercise price of $0.50 per share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

The gross proceeds of the FT Shares sold under the Offering will be used for Canadian Exploration Expenses (within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada)) which qualify as a "flow-through mining expenditure" for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) related to the exploration program of the Company to be conducted on the Company's properties located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan. The Company will renounce such Canadian Exploration Expenses with an effective date of no later than December 31, 2025.

The completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and corporate approvals, including the approval of the listing of the FT Shares and the Warrant Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange. Resale of the securities of the Company distributed under the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period in Canada of four months and one day following the closing date of the Offering.

About Purepoint

Purepoint Uranium Group Inc. (TSXV: PTU) (OTCQB: PTUUF) is a focused explorer with a dynamic portfolio of advanced projects within the renowned Athabasca Basin in Canada. Highly prospective uranium projects are actively operated on behalf of partnerships with industry leaders including Cameco Corporation, Orano Canada Inc. and IsoEnergy Ltd.

Additionally, the Company holds a promising VHMS project currently optioned to and strategically positioned adjacent to and on trend with Foran Corporation's McIlvena Bay project. Through a robust and proactive exploration strategy, Purepoint is solidifying its position as a leading explorer in one of the globe's most significant uranium districts.

For additional information please visit our new website at https://purepoint.ca, our Twitter feed: @PurepointU3O8 or our LinkedIn page @Purepoint-Uranium.

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 Press release.

Disclosure regarding forward-looking statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including the completion of planned exploration activities, the ability of the Company to complete the Offering on the proposed terms or at all, statements regarding the tax treatment of the CFT Units and the timing to renounce all Canadian Exploration Expenses, the anticipated use of proceeds from the Offering and receipt of regulatory approvals with respect to the Offering. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof 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" or the negative connation thereof.

Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including among others, that the Company's planned exploration activities will be completed in a timely manner, that the Company will be able to complete the Offering on the terms as anticipated by management, that the Company will use the proceeds of the Offering as anticipated, and that the Company will receive regulatory approval with respect to the Offering. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

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 plans or expectations include the risk that the Company will not be able to complete the Offering on the terms as anticipated by management or at all, that the Company will not use the proceeds of the Offering as anticipated, that the Company will not receive regulatory approval with respect to the Offering, risks relating to the actual results of current exploration activities, fluctuating uranium prices, possibility of equipment breakdowns and delays, exploration cost overruns, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes, timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.

Not for Dissemination in the United States or through U.S. Newswire Services

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262289

SOURCE: Purepoint Uranium Group Inc.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada is pleased to announce that its Heal Wellness brand has secured a real estate location in downtown Oakville, Ontario, with plans to open the 8th corporate store for the brand. Heal Wellness ("Heal") is a fresh smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies quick serve restaurant ("QSR").

Happy Belly 1

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"Securing our next corporate store location is an example of Happy Belly exercising its disciplined organic growth model, using free cash flow from our brand to compound growth. With a focus on (ROIC) Return on Invested Capital we believe this was the right time and location to accelerate our corporate store count. Capital allocation across our brand portfolio is critical as we look to accelerate our growth and maximize returns for our shareholders", said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly Food Group. We believe having a disciplined approach to growth by using both our corporate and franchised locations will establish Heal Wellness as the leading smoothie bowl brand in Canada."

"Heal is building strong momentum, expanding its development pipeline with a consistent flow of franchise agreements and strategic real estate acquisitions nationwide. Striking the right balance between corporate and franchised locations remains a key metric as we grow our national footprint. Rapidly positioning itself as Canada's first genuine coast-to-coast smoothie bowl brand, Heal is gaining significant traction in emerging markets while cultivating loyal customers and enhancing brand awareness-reinforcing our long-term vision and the strength of our brand model."



"We believe downtown Oakville, with its vibrant, health-conscious community and strong foot traffic from both residents and visitors will make this location a perfect fit for Heal. The surrounding area boasts a mix of upscale shops, cafes, and fitness studios that attract a demographic focused on wellness and nutritious lifestyle choices, perfectly aligning with the fresh and wholesome offerings of Heal's acai bowls and smoothies. Additionally, its picturesque lakeside setting and active outdoor culture encourage healthy eating habits, making it a natural fit for a health-focused quick-service restaurant. With excellent accessibility and a growing demand for convenient, nutritious options, downtown Oakville presents a prime opportunity for Heal to grow its customer base."

Happy Belly 2

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"Heal Wellness is rapidly gaining national brand recognition, establishing itself as Canada's first true coast-to-coast smoothie bowl brand as it gains traction across new markets, building customer loyalty and brand visibility at an impressive pace-further validating our long-term vision and the strength of our franchise model. With 195 units secured through national development agreements-Heal is delivering on its promise of scalable, asset-light expansion while deepening customer loyalty and market presence. Our progress reinforces our expansion strategy while generating long-term value creation for our shareholders."



"The broader Happy Belly portfolio now boasts 616 contractually committed retail locations across various stages of development, construction, and operation. This momentum-fueled by a proven franchise model, experienced operators, and strategic site selection-is translating into meaningful and shareholder value. As we scale nationally with a repeatable, asset-light framework, we are laying the foundation for sustained and predictable growth across our entire brand ecosystem through 2026 and beyond."

"We are just getting started," said Sean Black.

About Heal Wellness

Heal Wellness was founded with a passion and mission to provide quick, fresh wellness foods that support a busy and active lifestyle. We currently offer a diverse range of smoothie bowls and smoothies. We take pride in meticulously selecting every superfood ingredient on our menu to fuel the body, including acai smoothie bowls, smoothies, and super-seed grain bowls. Our smoothie bowls are crafted with real fruit and enriched with superfoods like acai, pitaya, goji berries, chia seeds, and more.



Franchising

For franchising inquiries please see www.happybellyfg.com/franchise-with-us/ or contact us at hello@happybellyfg.com.

About Happy Belly Food Group

Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada.

Happy Belly 3

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Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262345

SOURCE: Happy Belly Food Group Inc.


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs has announced a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Haitian gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, a.k.a. 'Barbecue.'



Cherizier, 48, from Port-au-Prince, is the leader of Viv Ansanm, which the U.S. Government designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in May. He is a central figure responsible for gang violence in Haiti. Notorious for his total disregard of human dignity, Cherizier is directly involved in the mass murder and rape of Haitian civilians, the U.S. Department of State said in a pess release.



In December 2020, Cherizier and two Haitian public officials were designated for sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (Global Magnitsky) for their roles in the La Saline massacre and severe human rights abuses in Haiti.



Tuesday, the Department of Justice unsealed an indictment of Cherizier in the District of Columbia, charging him with one count of conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions. Cherizier avoided sanctions placed on him in 2020 under the Global Magnitsky Act.



His co-defendant, Brazile Richardson, was charged with leading a conspiracy to transfer funds from the United States to Cherizier to fund his gang activities in Haiti in violation of the U.S sanctions imposed on Cherizier.



Cherizier is a fugitive believed to be in Haiti, while Richardson, who is a naturalized U.S. citizen, was arrested on July 23 in Pasadena, Texas, and made his initial court appearance in the District of Columbia.



Cherizier and Richardson directly solicited money transfers from members of the Haitian diaspora residing in the United States. After sending funds to intermediaries in Haiti for Cherizier's benefit, the U.S. and Haitian co-conspirators would send Cherizier images of receipts from the money transfers. Cherizier used these funds to pay salaries to the members of his gang and to acquire firearms from illicit firearms dealers in Haiti.



'Cherizier and a U.S. associate sought to raise funds in the United States to bankroll Cherizier's violent criminal enterprise, which is driving a security crisis in Haiti,' said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. List of links to 143 music stories I did and published on Rttnews.com between 21-6-2025 and 20-7-2025



Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

 2025 AFX News
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - C3 Metals Inc. (TSXV: CCCM) (OTCQB: CUAUF) ("C3 Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce exploration diamond drilling has commenced within C3 Metals' 100%-owned Bellas Gate Project, Jamaica.

The Bellas Gate Project comprises three separate Special Exclusive Prospecting Licenses and totals 13,020 hectares (Figure 1). On February 11, 2025, the Company announced it had entered into an earn-in agreement with Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation ("Freeport"), a wholly-owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX) whereby Freeport can earn up to 75% in the project by funding up to US$75 million in exploration and project related expenditures (see press release dated February 11, 2025).

Drilling is designed to test multiple copper-gold porphyry prospects identified over a 18km strike extent. In total, 14 porphyry prospects have been identified at Bellas Gate. Drilling will primarily be targeting prospects with limited to no prior drilling so that essential data can be collected in the first 500m. This data, as well as additional geophysical data that is planned to be collected, will help inform optimal locations for potential deeper drilling in the future. Drilling will also target volcanic redbed copper-silver mineralization in the northwest project area (see press release dated July 28, 2025).

Dan Symons, President and CEO, stated, "The technical data that we have collected at Bellas Gate thus far suggests that we are the in the upper portions of these confirmed copper-gold porphyry clusters. Previous C3 Metals drilling has primarily focused on 4 of the 14 copper-gold porphyry prospects identified over a 18km strike extent. The current drill program will primarily focus on testing some of the other 10 prospects in the first 500m where there is limited to no drill data. The drill data from this program, combined with the data to be collected during an extensive geophysical survey, will aid in targeting deeper into these copper-gold porphyry systems. Essentially, we are aiming to collect important data over the next several months that will inform where to rate and rank deeper holes into the confirmed porphyry systems."

Program Highlights

Bellas Gate Project drilling has confirmed near surface copper-gold porphyry mineralization at multiple porphyry centres exposed within an erosional window, including: Provost - 390.7m at 0.37% Cu and 0.19 g/t Au in PVT0900-002 from 64.1m , including 279.5m at 0.43% copper and 0.24 g/t gold intersected in drill hole PVT0900-002 (See press release dated September 25, 2023). Camel Hill - 208m at 0.43% Cu and 0.20 g/t Au in CMH8350-001 from only 22m downhole , incl. 135m at 0.52% Cu and 0.27 g/t Au (See press release dated October 4, 2023). Connors - 309.0m at 0.44% Cu and 0.33g/t Au in CON9325-001 from 15.0m (See press release September 12, 2022).

Volcanic redbed copper-silver mineralization located on the northwest project area will also be tested by short holes targeting the favorable horizons.





Figure 1: Map showing the Bellas Gate Project area identifying the locations of the copper-gold porphyry prospects and a volcanic redbed copper-silver prospect.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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2025 Drilling Program

The 2025 drilling program will target a cluster of high-level copper-gold porphyries situated along three parallel structural corridors over a 18km strike extent. These porphyry clusters are locally telescoped by low, intermediate and high sulfidation epithermal vein style copper, gold and silver mineralization. All known porphyries at Bellas Gate Project contain gold mineralization, with copper typically in chalcopyrite form and hosted in volcanic andesite rocks and less commonly in diorite porphyry dykes and stocks. Historical and recent drilling confirms copper-gold mineralization is open at depth and along strike in most systems. Four diamond drill holes over 2,000m have been designed for this phase of relatively shallow drilling into various copper-gold porphyry prospects.

A second target of this drilling campaign is volcanic redbed style copper-silver mineralization in the northwest project area. A recently announced closely spaced soil sampling campaign confirmed a strongly anomalous copper in soil zone that extends for 2,700m and is up to 205m in width. Soil sampling confirmed a 120m wide zone that averaged 0.12% copper and a second soil line assayed 0.16% copper over 50m zone (see press release dated July 28, 2025). This volcanic redbed target has never been drill tested and could potentially be related to a distal porphyry system. Redbed deposits are typically stratabound and can be of significant lateral extent. These styles of deposits account for the second most copper production globally after porphyry deposits. An initial 5-hole, 750m program has been designed to conduct an initial test of the redbed system where strong copper in soil geochemistry has been observed.

In total, 9 diamond drill holes over 2,750m are planned to test porphyry and redbed targets. This drilling program is anticipated to run concurrent with an extensive geophysical survey. Both drill and geophysical data are essential for preparing for the next phase of drilling, which is anticipated to target deeper portions of these porphyry systems.

ABOUT C3 METALS INC.

C3 Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on creating substantive value for its shareholders through the discovery and development of large copper and gold deposits. The Company holds approximately 31,000 hectares located in the prolific high-grade Andahuaylas-Yauri Porphyry-Skarn belt of Southern Peru. Mineralization at Jasperoide is hosted in a similar geological setting to the nearby major mining operations at Las Bambas (MMG), Constancia (Hudbay) and Antapaccay (Glencore). At Jasperoide, the Company has identified over 15 skarn prospects and an outcropping porphyry system over two parallel 28km belts. The Company has published a maiden resource estimate on the first of these skarn targets, which contained Measured & Indicated Resources of 52Mt at 0.5% copper and 0.2 g/t gold[1]. The Company is also actively exploring in Jamaica where it has identified 16 porphyry, 40 epithermal and multiple volcanic redbed copper prospects over a 30km strike extent. The Company holds a 100% interest in 17,855 hectares of exploration licenses, of which Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation, a wholly-owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX), has the option on 13,020 hectares to earn up to a 75% interest by funding up to US$75 million of exploration and project related expenditures. The Company also holds a 50% interest in 9,870 hectares in a joint venture with Geophsyx Jamaica Ltd, the largest mineral tenure holder in the country. Barrick Gold Corp. announced on May 1, 2024 that it had entered into an earn-in agreement with Geophysx Jamaica Ltd. on approximately 400,000 hectares of exploration licenses, several of which surround C3 Metals' mineral concessions. Mining is currently the second largest industry in Jamaica, and historical mining dates back to the colonial eras of the 1500s (Spanish) and 1800s (British).

Related Link: www.c3metals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

QP Statement

Stephen Hughes, P.Geo. is Vice President Exploration and a Director for C3 Metals and is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Hughes has reviewed the technical information in this news release and approves the written disclosure contained herein.

Technical Program

C3 Metals adheres to a strict QA/QC protocol for handling, sampling, sample transportation and analyses. Chain-of-custody protocols are designed to ensure security of samples until their delivery at the laboratory.

Samples will be cut at C3 Metals' operations base in Bellas Gate, St Catherine, Jamaica by Company personnel. Diamond drill core will be sampled in maximum 3-metre intervals, stopping at geological boundaries, and using a rock saw. Core diameter will be a mix of HQ3 and NQ3 depending on the depth of the drill hole. Samples will be bagged, tagged and packaged for shipment by DHL air freight service to the ALS preparation laboratory in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada where entire samples were crushed to 70% passing 10 mesh (2mm), and a 250g split was pulverized to 85% passing 200 mesh (75m).

The prepared samples will be sent to the ALS assay laboratories in Vancouver, Canada for copper, gold and silver assays, and multi-element ICP. ALS is an accredited laboratory which is independent of the Company. Gold assays will be by fire assay fusion with AAS finish on a 30g sample and the overlimit gold assay was completed by fire assay and gravimetric finish on 30g sample. Copper and silver assayed by ICP-AES following a 4-acid digestion on the ME-ICP61 package for a suite of 33 elements and the over limit copper by 4-Acid digestion and assayed by ICP-AES on each sample with copper greater than 10000ppm (1%). Copper and gold standards as well as blanks and duplicates (coarse crush split) will be randomly inserted into the sampling sequence for quality control. On average, 9% of the submitted samples will be quality control samples.

Caution Regarding 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 Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the exploration operations of the Company and the timing which could be affected by the current global COVID-19 pandemic. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate.

While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, risks relating to variations in grade or recovery rates, risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals, risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks, and regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks.

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.

1 Based on the assumptions and parameters outlined in the NI 43-101 Technical Report titled Jasperoide Copper-Gold Project Cusco Region, Peru dated July 5, 2023.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262297

SOURCE: C3 Metals Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - CopperCorp Resources Inc. (TSXV: CPER) (OTCQB: CPCPF) (FSE: NU0) ("CopperCorp" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Coutts to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Mr. Coutts is a mining executive with over 35 years of global experience in mineral exploration, project development, mine operations, and corporate leadership in both Australia, Canada, and other international jurisdictions.

Most recently, Mr. Coutts served as President and CEO of Noront Resources Ltd., which was acquired by Wyloo Metals in April 2022 for approximately C$650 million following a high-profile bidding contest with BHP. This acquisition centred on Noront's flagship Eagle's Nest Ni-Cu-PGE project in Ontario's Ring of Fire district. After the transaction, Mr. Coutts joined Wyloo's Advisory Board, serving a two-year term.

Career Highlights:

2008-2013 Executive General Manager & Managing Director, Xstrata Nickel Australasia (Perth, Australia): Oversaw three producing nickel mines and two processing plants in Western Australia with over 800 employees, supported a development project in Tanzania, and served on the board of the US$5B Koniambo Nickel Project in New Caledonia.

Australasia (Perth, Australia): Oversaw three producing nickel mines and two processing plants in Western Australia with over 800 employees, supported a development project in Tanzania, and served on the board of the US$5B Koniambo Nickel Project in New Caledonia. 2003-2008 General Manager of the "Brunswick 12" mine , Noranda Mines (now Xstrata) (New Brunswick, Canada): Managed a 10,000 t/day underground Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag operation with 850 employees.

, (now Xstrata) (New Brunswick, Canada): Managed a 10,000 t/day underground Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag operation with 850 employees. 1999-2003 General Superintendent, Falconbridge Raglan mine (Quebec Arctic): Led underground and open-pit nickel sulphide operations with 450 employees.

(Quebec Arctic): Led underground and open-pit nickel sulphide operations with 450 employees. Earlier roles included exploration and operational positions in Canada and Sweden.

Stephen Swatton, President and CEO of CopperCorp, commented:

"We are thrilled to welcome Alan to CopperCorp's board. His proven track record in mine development, operations, and strategic exploration, combined with his experience guiding large-scale battery metals-focused projects, aligns perfectly with our vision. There are strong parallels between Noront's large land package and CopperCorp's position in western Tasmania, and Alan's insight will be invaluable as we advance exploration on our two highly prospective copper-gold belts through 2025 and into 2026."

Alan Coutts, Director, added:

"I am pleased to join the board of CopperCorp. I'm impressed with the quality of the technical team and the outstanding land package that has been assembled in this highly prospective, yet somewhat underappreciated, historical mining district. The insatiable demand for copper over the upcoming decade is well documented and the timing of the Razorback drilling program in the current commodity cycle is optimal. I look forward to getting back to Australia and visiting the property later this year to review the drilling progress.

In my previous position Noront became the subject of a successful bid by Wyloo in 2022, largely driven by the quality, size and prospectivity of the entire land package which contained many of the key battery minerals required for global decarbonization. I am excited to play a part in another initiative with a similar strategy."

In connection with his appointment, CopperCorp has granted Mr. Coutts 400,000 incentive stock options in accordance with the Company's omnibus incentive plan. The options are exercisable at C$0.165 per share for five years, subject to certain vesting provisions and TSX Venture Exchange approval.

About CopperCorp

CopperCorp is focused on the exploration and development of its Skyline and AMC copper-gold-REE projects in western Tasmania, Australia.

For additional information, please visit:

Website: www.coppercorpinc.com

SEDAR+: www.sedarplus.ca

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider 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/262313

SOURCE: CopperCorp Resources Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Cascadia Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: CAM) (OTCQB: CAMNF) ("Cascadia") and Granite Creek Copper Ltd. (TSXV: GCX) (OTC Pink: GCXXF) ("Granite Creek") are pleased to announce the acquisition by Cascadia of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Granite Creek (the "Granite Creek Shares") pursuant to a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Arrangement"). The Arrangement, which became effective as of today's date, merges Granite Creek into Cascadia to create a leading Yukon copper-gold exploration and development company.

Graham Downs, President and CEO of Cascadia, commented: "We are very excited to complete this merger, and we welcome Granite Creek Shareholders to Cascadia. The combined property portfolio provides our shareholders with exposure to an advanced-stage copper-gold deposit at the Carmacks Property and a compelling collection of discovery-stage copper-gold and epithermal gold projects throughout Yukon's underexplored Stikine Terrane. Planning is well underway for a fully-funded fall drill program at Carmacks that will focus on step-out drilling near high-grade portions of the deposit. In the meantime, crews are conducting prospecting work at our Macks, Milner, Idaho Creek and Rosy properties while we await results from our spring drilling at Catch."

Upon completion of the Arrangement, each Granite Creek shareholder received 0.25 (the "Exchange Ratio") of a Cascadia common share (each whole share, a "Cascadia Share") in exchange for each previously held Granite Creek Share, with Cascadia issuing a total of 53,070,848 million Cascadia Shares to former Granite Creek shareholders. Pursuant to the transaction, previously outstanding stock options of Granite Creek have been exchanged for 3,747,500 stock options of Cascadia, and warrants to acquire Granite Creek Shares have been adjusted to permit their holders to acquire a total of 11,036,291 Cascadia Shares, in each case by applying the Exchange Ratio to the number and exercise prices of such options and warrants.

Board of Directors of the Combined Company

Timothy Johnston, Granite Creek's former President and CEO has joined Cascadia's board of directors. James Sabala and Kurt Allen have resigned from Cascadia's board of directors. Cascadia would like to thank Mr. Sabala and Mr. Allen for their valuable contributions, and wish them well in their future endeavours.

Subscription Receipt Financing

Further to the private placement announced in Cascadia's June 9, 2025, news release and closed on July 3, 2025, a total of 14,459,894 subscription receipts have been converted into Cascadia Shares and warrants ("Warrants"), and gross proceeds of C$2,024,385 have been released to Cascadia. The Cascadia Shares and Warrants issued in relation to the subscription receipts are not subject to a resale hold period in Canada. Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase an additional Cascadia Share at a price of $0.24 per share until August 13, 2027.

Cascadia has agreed to pay cash finders' fees totaling $82,223 and issued a total of 587,308 finder warrants ("Finder Warrants") to finders comprising Castlewood Capital Corp., Consultant Financier Integritas Inc., Ventum Financial Corp., and BT Global Growth Inc. in connection with the subscription receipt financing. The finders are each at arm's length to Cascadia. Each Finder Warrant shall be exercisable on the same terms as the Warrants. The payment of these finder's fees is subject to receipt of TSXV approval.

Additional Information about the Arrangement

Further information regarding the Arrangement is set out in the news releases of Cascadia and Granite Creek dated June 9, 2025 and which has been publicly filed by Cascadia and Granite Creek under their respective profiles on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and the management information circular of Granite Creek dated July 4, 2025 (the "Circular") which has been publicly filed under Granite Creek's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Cascadia

Cascadia's flagship asset is the Carmacks Project in the high-grade Minto copper district in Yukon Territory, Canada. The project is located south of and within 35km of the past-producing Minto mine, which was recently acquired by Selkirk Copper Mines. The Carmacks Project hosts a Measured and Indicated Resource containing 651 Mlbs of copper and 302 koz of gold (36.3 million tonnes grading 0.81 % copper, 0.26 g/t gold, and 3.23 g/t silver and 0.01% molybdenum) with a 2023 PEA demonstrating positive economic potential ($230.5 M Post-Tax NPV(5%) and 29% Post-Tax IRR).

Cascadia also has a pipeline of discovery stage copper-gold properties throughout the Yukon Stikine Terrane including its Catch Property, which hosts a copper-gold porphyry discovery where inaugural drill results returned broad intervals of mineralization (116.60 m of 0.31% copper with 0.30 g/t gold). Catch exhibits extensive high-grade copper and gold mineralization across a 5 km long trend, with rock samples returning peak values of 3.88% copper, 1,065 g/t gold, and 267 g/t silver.

QA/QC

The technical information in this news release has been approved by Andrew Carne, P.Eng., VP Corporate Development for Cascadia and a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101.

Prospecting grab samples referenced in this release represent highlight results only, and include results from 2024 and previous seasons. Below detection values for copper, gold and silver have been encountered in grab samples in these target areas. For more details on Catch drilling and prospecting results, please see Cascadia's News Releases dated July 25, 2024, and July 19, 2023.

The Mineral Resources and economic analysis disclosed here are referenced from the 2023 Technical Report on the Carmacks Project Preliminary Economic Assessment, authored by SGS Canada Inc. for Granite Creek Copper. Pricing for the Carmacks Project PEA base case economic analysis was US $3.75/lb copper, US $1,800/oz gold, and US $22/oz silver at an exchange rate of $1:US$0.75. The results of the Carmacks preliminary economic assessment are preliminary in nature, it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized.

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 note regarding forward-looking statements:

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Cascadia and Granite Creek undertake no obligation to update forward-looking information, except as required by securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262320

SOURCE: Granite Creek Copper
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Second Quarter Highlights

All figures in US$000's unless stated otherwise, except per unit figures which are in US$. Unless otherwise noted or the context indicates otherwise, "Group" refers to the Company and its subsidiaries, including Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold").

Total Group revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2025, amounted to $32,327 on combined sales of 15,058 ounces of gold.

Total Group revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2025, amounted to $64,695 on combined sales of 30,669 ounces of gold.

Average realized prices for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, were $2,147 and $2,109, respectively, per gold ounce, reflecting the impact of a forward sales contract fixed at $2,000 per ounce. The forward contract expired on June 10, 2025 and all subsequent sales are now occurring at spot price.

On a combined mine basis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Group produced 13,000 and 32,831 ounces of gold and sold 15,058 and 30,669 ounces of gold, respectively.

Altan Tsagaan Ovoo (" ATO ") production was slightly below plan in the first half of 2025 as operations focused on operational readiness of the new crushing plant.

Adjusted EBITDA after maintenance capital expenditures for the Group for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2025, was $17,890 and $36,512 respectively. Income tax payments of $18,192 were made during the six months ended June 30, 2025.

Site All in Sustaining Costs for the Group was $1,088 for the six months ended June 30, 2025. All in Sustaining Costs was $1,475 and $1,228 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 primarily due to higher sustaining capital expenditure incurred in 2025 with new fleet additions, primarily at the Boroo Mine.

The Group reported strong working capital of $141,709 as at June 30, 2025. Working capital included high interest bond investments of $100,388 which accrue interest at between 8% to 13.4% and mature on December 31, 2025. The repayment of these bonds, with an estimated value at maturity of approximately $104,000, will be applied to debt reduction and working capital needs.

As at June 30, 2025, Group net debt was $58,322, after deduction of the bond investments. Following the acquisition of all of the shares of Boroo Gold, the Group has been actively working with its principal lenders at the Trade and Development Bank of Mongolia to restructure debt facilities, repay higher rate loans, and better align its combined debt facilities with cash flow at the operating mines and the upcoming bond maturity.

With strong gold prices, the Group expects to see strong operating cash flow in the second half of 2025 as well as continued investment in fleet upgrades.

Higher gold prices are providing strong support to exploration activities. This should lead to mine life extension at Boroo and Ulaanbulag and revised feasibility studies are expected later this year.

The Group is also actively reviewing its financing options for the ATO Phase 2 Expansion (the " Phase 2 Expansion "), including the impact of the stream arrangements on project debt availability and other factors. It expects to renegotiate the terms of the financing of the Phase 2 Expansion with its stakeholders in the coming weeks.

At the Boroo Gold and ATO mine sites, there were 557,766 tonnes of ore mined and 463,067 tonnes of ore processed, with an average gold grade of 0.94 g/t and 211,489 tonnes of ore with an average grade of 0.25 g/t that underwent primary leaching during the three months ended June 30, 2025. There were 2,116,581 tonnes of ore mined and 923,101 tonnes of ore processed, with an average gold grade of 0.94 g/t and 294,460 tonnes of ore with an average grade of 0.31 g/t that underwent primary leaching during the six months ended June 30, 2025.

Steppe Gold's Chairman and CEO, Bataa Tumur-Ochir, stated, "I am pleased to report a strong second quarter and overall first half in 2025 with gold production at 32,831 ounces for the first six months. We reported a very competitive $1,088 per ounce Site AISC for the first half, showing the benefit of strong cost control, maximising leverage to the gold price. With the expiry of the forward contract in June, we expect this to translate to strong operating cash flows in the second half.

We also expect the the maturity of the bond investment in December and strong cash flows in the second half to allow us to restructure our debt facilities and support our growth plans at ATO specifically."

Outlook

The focus for the Group in 2025 has been on maximizing production and cash flows at its producing mines and sourcing more material, both in situ and nearby, within and outside the license areas, and extending mine life.

All Group gold production in the second half of 2025 is expected to be at spot prices, following the expiration of the Boroo Gold forward contract in June.

While gold prices are at record levels, negotiations with stream and finance partners to determine the optimal financing structure are taking longer than expected. There is no guarantee that these negotiations will yield a successful outcome and we may need to seek third party partners to realise value for this project.

Payables remain slightly elevated but working capital remains strong and the bond repayment of $104,000 in December 2025 is expected to significantly reduce debt levels. Debt to EBITDA ratios are manageable, and this should allow the Group to restructure debt facilities in the second half of 2025 to better align with the cash flow profile of the operating mines.

The Group also continues to consider growth in reserves and resources through organic exploration opportunities as well as potential acquisitions.

The Company's condensed interim consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 have been filed on SEDAR+. The full version of the condensed interim consolidated financial statements and associated management's discussion & analysis can be viewed on the Company's website at www.steppegold.com or under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Management and Board Changes

In an effort to streamline the executive management roles at Steppe Gold, the Company announces the following changes: Byambatseren Tsogbadrakh has stepped down as a director and President of the Company effective August 12, 2025; and the operations team in Mongolia has been restructured and Tserenbadam Dugeree will continue to oversee all operational activities in his role as CEO of the operational subsidiaries in country. Effective August 12, 2025, Tsereebadam Dugeree stepped down as Chief Operating Officer of the Company, but will remain as a director of the Company. In conjunction with this change, the Company has appointed Chief Operating Officers of Boroo Gold and Steppe Gold LLC, Purevraash Duzeenyam and Orgodol Togoo, respectively.

Purevraash Duzeenyam - Boroo Gold

Purevraash Duzeenyam is responsible for Boroo Gold operations, a role he assumed in January 2021. Purevraash has over 30 years of wide-ranging experience in the mining industry, and has held leadership roles at Boroo Gold for the past 20 years. His diversified background in the industry includes experience in exploration, engineering, mine operations, project development and construction, safety, health and security and mine management. Prior to becoming the Senior VP of Operations for Boroo Gold, Purevraash was the Head of Mine Operation Department for Boroo Gold.

Orgodol Togoo - ATO

Orgodol Togoo has almost 40 years of mining industry experience. He joined Steppe Gold in May 2025 as Vice President of Operations. Orgodol previously worked as Advisor to the CEO of Boroo Gold from 2021 to 2025, and from 2000 to 2021 he worked in various roles, including Manager of Technical Support, Mill Superintendent, Mill Manager and Director of Processing. Orgodol worked as Metallurgical Expert Consultant - Boroo Project Detailed Environmental Impact Assessment in 1999 and, prior to that, he was Deputy Director and Mine General Manager at Mongol-Canadian JV Bumbat Gold Ltd. and Chief Metallurgist at Mongolyn Alt (MAK) LLC from 1994 to 2000. From 1990-1994 Orgodol worked with Mineral Processing Technological Center of Mongolia as Mineral Processing Laboratory Superintendent and Research Officer. From 1986-1990 he worked as Department Manager, Coal Crushing and Screening Plant Engineer and Shift Foreman for Baganuur Coal Mine.

Orgodol has a Mining Engineering degree in Mineral Processing and a Master of Science in engineering degree from the Ural University of Mining and Geology (Russia) and is registered as a Consulting Engineer in Mongolia.

Non-IFRS Performance Measures

The Company uses the following non-IFRS measures: Adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA and AISC. EBITDA is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. AISC is calculated using cash costs in addition to general and administration, asset retirement costs, and sustaining capital, less certain non-recurring costs (notably exploration costs at the Mungu deposit) to provide an overall company outlook on the total cost required to sell an ounce of gold.

Management believes that these non-IFRS measures provide useful information to investors in measuring the financial performance of the Company for the reasons outlined below. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other publicly traded companies and should not be construed as an alternative to other financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS. The Company believes that these measures, together with measures determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The inclusion of these measures is meant to provide additional information and should not be used as a substitute for performance measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. These measures are not necessarily standard and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers. Further details of non-IFRS measures noted above can be found in the Company's management's discussion & analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain statements or disclosures relating to the Company that are based on the expectations of its management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company which may constitute forward-looking statements or information ("forward-looking statements") under applicable securities laws. All such statements and disclosures, other than those of historical fact, which address activities, events, outcomes, results, or developments that the Company anticipates or expects may, or will occur in the future (in whole or in part) should be considered forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of the words "continues", "focus", "may", "will", "projected", "opportunities", "expected", "planned", "potential", "should" and similar expressions. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this news release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to the following: discussion of future plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto, including, but not limited to: the Phase 2 Expansion and the ATO gold mine; higher achieved gold prices in the second half of 2025 and the restructuring and reduction of the Company's debt facilities; the expectation of the Group to revert to sales at spot prices of gold in the second half of 2025; increase of capital expenditures with new fleet additions in Q2 and Q3 of 2025; the repayment of the bonds to be applied to debt reduction and working capital needs; compliance with key covenants of the Group's contracts; the renegotiation of the Phase 2 Expansion financing terms with stakeholders and the potential success of such negotiations; the negotiation and success thereof with stream and finance partners; future exploration and production; growth in reserves and resources through organic exploration opportunities as well as potential acquisitions; expectations regarding mine life extensions and the timing of revised feasibility studies; the Group's future outlook and anticipated events; and future financial position.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release reflect several material factors and expectations and assumptions of the Company including, without limitation: management team and board of directors of Steppe Gold; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of the Company; changes in business plans and strategies; risk of litigation; market and capital finance conditions; risks inherent to any capital financing transactions; changes in world commodity markets; currency fluctuations; costs and supply of materials relevant to the mining industry; change in government and changes to regulations affecting the mining industry; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents, including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262337

SOURCE: Steppe Gold Ltd.
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - AVANTI GOLD CORP. (CSE: AGC) (FSE: X37) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has appointed David Renner as a Director of the Board of the Company. David holds an MSc in Geotechnical Engineering, a mining executive with over 30 years of international experience in the mining sector including operations leadership, management and project development for major multinational mining companies as well as junior mining companies. David has significant experience and a proven track record in strategy formulation and execution, corporate governance and ESG integration and significant experience in several geographical locations within Africa.

"We are delighted to welcome David to the Board of Avanti. David brings with him invaluable experience and knowledge of the African mining industry especially in management of large scale mine development and production and will make a significant contribution to the company's future growth," said Sir Sam Jonah, Chairman of the Board of Avanti Gold.

About David Renner

Mr. Renner has extensive experience in the mining sector, particularly in Africa including Ghana, Mali and Tanzania where he was the project manager of the large scale Geita gold project of Ashanti Goldfields. Earlier in his career, David held senior executive roles with Ashanti Goldfields Ltd including Managing Director of the AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in Ghana and Managing Director of Semos, Sadiola and Yatela Gold Mines in Mali.

He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Civil Engineering from the University of Science & Technology , Kumasi, Ghana, a Master's in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and an MBA for the University of the Witwatersrand, Republic of South Africa. Mr. Renner is a member of the Ghana Institution of Engineers.

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.

Qualified Person

Ephraim Masibhera, a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Historical information presented herein should not be relied upon as it has not been verified by the Company's Qualified Person.

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 news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Avanti's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262298

SOURCE: Avanti Gold Corp.
Transaction transforms Neural into company with solid financial fundamentals with significant short, mid and long-term growth prospects

Hanf.com achieved sales of 4.9 Million (~CA$7.5M) and a 13% operating profit in 20241.

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Neural Therapeutics Inc. (CSE: NURL) (FSE: HANF) ("Neural" or the "Company"), an ethnobotanical drug discovery company focused on developing therapeutic drugs for mental illnesses related to substance use disorders, and CWE European Holdings Inc. ("CWE"), the owner and operator of a business known as Hanf.com ("Hanf.com"), one of Germany's leading CBD retailers, are pleased to announce, further to the Company's July 22, 2025 and May 28, 2025 press releases, that Neural and CWE have completed the first of two transactions whereby the Company is acquiring all the issued and outstanding shares of CWE (the "Strategic Investment Transaction"). Following the closing of this transaction as the first stage of the Strategic Investment Transaction, Neural now holds approximately 30.75% equity interest in CWE.

With the partial acquisition of CWE and Hanf.com, Neural is acquiring Germany's market leading retail chain for CBD and related products. With 15 stores (11 directly owned, 4 franchises) and a successful eCommerce platform, Hanf.com has grown rapidly into an business with robust fundamentals, as reflected by its approximately $7.5 million ( 4.9 million) in revenues and a 13% operating profit margin for the year ended December 31, 20241. For the fiscal year 2025, based on its operating performance to date, CWE's management expects to achieve 40% revenue growth and potentially further operating margin expansion through anticipated greater economies of scale.

As part of its growth strategy, Hanf.com is focusing on growing its footprint through its low-risk, capital lite franchising model, while executing opportunistically on opportunities to open new fully owned stores in its home market of Bavaria. Furthermore, Hanf.com continues to expand its product portfolio, both through in-house development and strategic partnerships, such as the exclusive agreement to distribute Ritual Herbs, a premium line of German-crafted, herbal smoking blends developed by TFD GmbH.

"This transaction gives Neural exposure to a revenue-generating business with growth potential in the short, mid, and long term," said Ian Campbell, Neural CEO. "With growing revenues, an expanding footprint, a capital-lite expansion model, and strategic partnerships providing exclusive access to new products, we believe Hanf.com is well-positioned to build on its current momentum."

Ronnie Jaegermann, CEO of CWE, added, "We are very pleased with the swift completion of this first stage of the Strategic Investment Transaction and look forward to working with Ian and the Neural team to create value for shareholders. At this stage, Neural's Strategic Investment Transaction provides CWE with a strategic partner whose focus on innovation and product development, particularly in the nutraceutical space, complements our retail footprint and wellness expertise. We believe this relationship has the potential to generate mutual benefits as the partnership progresses."

Growth catalysts

The first stage transaction towards the Strategic Investment Transaction brings immediate value to Neural through Hanf.com's strong fundamentals. Furthermore, the combination creates a company with significant mid- and long-term growth opportunities, as well as potential long-term blue-sky upside:

Short-term

Creates a public company with strong fundamentals through approximately CA$7.5 million (4.9 Million) in revenues and a 13% operating profit margin 2 .

. Near term new franchises and potentially new owned stores.

Expansion of product offering that have the ability to drive new traffic (customers) to the Company's brick and mortar and eCommerce sites.

Launch of the Company's new B2B eCommerce portal as Hanf.com is becoming an important supply partner to other operators in the German retail market.

Mid-term

Further store openings (both retail and, where financially accretive, owned stores).

New strategic product and other partnerships.

Working together with newly formed German cannabis clubs to enhance their product portfolio.

Long-term

Regulatory change in Germany: while not certain, management anticipates that Germany's cannabis regulations at some point will allow for dispensary type retail sales as are known in the US and Canadian cannabis markets. This could transform the cannabis landscape in Germany, positioning Hanf.com to benefit from any such developments and enhancing its attractiveness as a potential acquisition target.

Development of new nutraceuticals based on the non-psychotropic compounds found in the San Pedro cactus.

Neural's progress towards the development of FDA-approved, mescaline-based psychedelic treatments for major mental health disorders, such as addiction, anxiety and depression.

In management's view, the Strategic Investment Transaction provides a foundation for growth supported by measurable business metrics and market opportunities.

Transaction details

Pursuant to the Strategic Investment and Option Agreement dated May 28, 2025 (the "SIO Agreement"), CWE's shareholders formed a special purpose numbered corporation under the laws of Ontario ("CWE Newco A"), and transferred a part of their common shares of CWE (the "CWE Shares") to CWE Newco A by way of a share exchange and reorganization. In exchange for the acquisition of all of the common shares of CWE NewCo A, Neural issued its common shares (the "Neural Shares") to CWE Newco A's shareholders. Neural's wholly owned subsidiary formed pursuant to the laws of Ontario ("Neural Subco A"), was then amalgamated with CWE Newco A, resulting in a three-cornered amalgamation under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), with the resulting entity ("Amalco A") becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Neural (the "Amalgamation").

In consideration for the acquisition of CWE Newco A, Neural issued an aggregate of 79,999,960 Neural Shares to former CWE shareholders (being all of the shareholders of CWE Newco A), based on an agreed exchange ratio of 4 Neural Shares for each CWE Share previously held by such CWE shareholders and a deemed price of $0.05 per Neural Share. These Neural Shares represent approximately 47.4% of the Company's issued and outstanding common shares on a post-transaction basis. Through Amalco A, Neural now indirectly owns 19,999,990 CWE Shares, representing 30.75% of the outstanding CWE Shares on a non-diluted basis and approximately 20.47% on a fully diluted basis.

The Amalgamation was made effective as of August 13, 2025. Former CWE shareholders will receive Direct Registration System (DRS) statements from Odyssey Trust Company, the transfer agent of the Company, in due course.

Neural and CWE continue to consider and plan the potential exercise of the Series B Option to advance the Strategic Investment Transaction, the terms of which are outlined in the Company's press release dated May 28, 2025 and the SIO Agreement, which is available under Neural's profile on www.sedarplus.ca. Neural's primary business objectives, as disclosed in its CSE Form 2A Listing Statement dated March 7, 2025 (filed March 12, 2025) remain unchanged. Other than the transaction costs, Neural does not expect that any of its available funds will be used towards advancing Hanf.com's business, as CWE expects to have sufficient financial resources to continue its growth organically. Further details regarding the Series B Option will be announced by Neural through a press release when applicable. There is no assurance that the Series B Option will be exercised, or whether any further transactions between Neural and CWE will occur. The exercise of the Series B Option remains subject to satisfaction of conditions precedent set out in SIO Agreement.

Related Party Disclosure and MI 61-101 Exemptions

A portion of the 79,999,960 Neural Shares issued under the transaction, being 313,929 Neural Shares, representing approximately 0.192 % of the transaction total, were issued to Eran Ovadya, a director of the Company and therefore a related party to the Company under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Neural shares issued to Mr. Ovadya are in consideration of his ownership in CWE.

The issuance of Neural shares to Mr. Ovadya constitutes a "related party transaction" under MI 61-101. The Company is relying on exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements under sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the Company is not listed on a specified market and the fair market value of the consideration to related parties does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before closing because the Series A Option was exercised on August 13, 2025, the same day the press release announcing the transaction was issued.

Early Warning Disclosure

As further described in Neural's press release dated November 25, 2024, and the Listing Statement available under Neural's SEDAR+ profile, Northern Star Capital Inc. ("NSCI"), a company 100% owned by Alex Storcheus, a director of Neural, acquired an aggregate of 12,712,950 Neural Shares, representing approximately 14.33% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares at that time.

As a result of the issuance of Neural Shares in connection with the closing of the first part of the CWE transaction, NSCI's beneficial ownership and control has been diluted to below the 10% early warning reporting threshold under National Instrument 62-104 - Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids. Accordingly, NSCI will be filing an early warning report in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Mr. Storcheus has a long-term view of his investment in the Company. His view of the Company and investment therein may change, depending on market and other conditions, or as future circumstances may dictate. Mr. Storcheus may increase or dispose of some or all of his ownership in the Company or may continue to hold his current position. The head office of NSCI is located at 3002-130 Adelaide Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 3P5.

About Neural Therapeutics

Neural Therapeutics is a leader in ethnobotanical drug discovery, focused on the development of therapeutic drugs for mental illnesses related to substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid dependence. The Company's innovative approach to drug development involves the strategic use of sub-hallucinogenic doses of mescaline extract, enhancing safety and scalability while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.

On May 26, 2025, Neural entered into a Strategic Investment and Option Agreement with CWE European Holdings Inc., a leading CBD hemp retailer in Germany operating under the brand Hanf.com, to acquire up to 100% of CWE through a multi-stage transaction. On August 13, 2025, Neural completed the first stage of this transaction, acquiring a 30.75% equity interest in CWE. The investment provides Neural with exposure to Hanf.com's established retail and eCommerce operations, which include 15 stores in Germany (11 directly owned and 4 franchises) and a growing product portfolio. The transaction is expected to expand Neural's commercial footprint in Europe while maintaining its core commitment to drug discovery and mental health innovation.

CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER STATEMENT

No securities regulatory authority has reviewed or accepted responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release. This news release contains forward-looking statements ("FLS") regarding execution and anticipated outcomes of the executed first transaction between Neural and CWE, as well as the intended follow up transaction, including, but not limited to Neural's expectation that it will not have to use any of its available funds towards advancing the Hanf.com business, there being no assurance that the Series B Option will be exercised, or whether any further transactions between Neural and CWE will occur, growth prospects and projections for the Hanf.com business, the opening of new stores and new franchises, the evolution of German cannabis regulations, and the execution of Neural's continuing mescaline research program;. FLS are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "plan" and similar expressions.

These statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather predictions about future events, which are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the FLS due to a variety of factors, including changes in consumer demand, regulatory developments, access to research materials, scientific outcomes, competitive pressures, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure filings. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Although management considers such information to be reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual outcomes may differ significantly. FLS contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise such statements. A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from FLS in Neural's disclosure documents posted on www.sedarplus.ca.

The securities of Neural have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or applicable state securities laws. The securities may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the United States or "U.S. Persons" (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act), unless registered or exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy Neural's securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction where such an offer or sale would be unlawful.

Neither the 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.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

1 Financial information for CWE/Hanf.com are based on unaudited data. CWE is currently in the process of completing its financial audit for the year ended December 31, 2024.

2 Financial information for CWE/Hanf.com are based on unaudited data. CWE is currently in the process of completing its financial audit for the year ended December 31, 2024

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262314

SOURCE: Neural Therapeutics Inc.
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Standard Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: STND) (OTCQB: STTDF) (FSE: 9SU0) ("Standard Uranium" or the "Company") is pleased to announce plans for a diamond drill program at its flagship Davidson River project ("Davidson River" or the "Project") in the southwest Athabasca Basin region, northern Saskatchewan (Figure 1). In addition, the Company announces a non-brokered private placement to raise gross proceeds of up to C$3,500,000 (the "Offering").

Davidson River Highlights:

First Multiphysics in SW Athabasca: Standard Uranium in partnership with Fleet Space Technologies Canada Corp. (" Fleet Space ") recently executed the first Exosphere Multiphysics survey in the prolific southwest Athabasca Uranium District on the Davidson River project.

Standard Uranium in partnership with Fleet Space Technologies Canada Corp. (" ") recently executed the first Exosphere Multiphysics survey in the prolific southwest Athabasca Uranium District on the Davidson River project. Poised for Discovery: New and refined target areas across the Warrior, Bronco, and Thunderbird conductor corridors are significantly derisked with new high-resolution 3D imaging of basement structures and alteration zones, providing key targeting information for upcoming summer drilling.

New and refined target areas across the Warrior, Bronco, and Thunderbird conductor corridors are significantly derisked with new high-resolution 3D imaging of basement structures and alteration zones, providing key targeting information for upcoming summer drilling. Drill Ready: The Company has secured all drill permits, has signed Exploration Agreements with our Clearwater River Dene Nation ("CRDN") partners, has secured all crucial vendors and drilling is now planned for a 4 to 6-week drill program, scheduled to begin in early September 2025.

Jon Bey, CEO of Standard Uranium commented, "Standard Uranium has been working towards this drill program for over three years, and we couldn't be more excited to see the drills turning once again. I would like to thank our technical team, all the vendors we are working with, our CRDN partners, and our shareholders that have supported this drill program and our company since inception. It is now time to make a discovery and add significant value for our shareholders and I have full confidence that our team is up for the task."

Private Placement

The Offering will consist of units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of C$0.08 per Unit, and flow-through units of the Company (each, a "FT Unit", and collectively with the Units, the "Offered Securities") at a price of C$0.10 per FT Unit. Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each a "Unit Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each FT Unit will consist of one common share of the Company to be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a "FT Share") and one-half of one Warrant. Each whole Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.15 at any time on or before that date which is twenty-four months after the closing date of the Offering.

The net proceeds raised from the Offering will be used for the exploration of the Company's Projects and for working capital purposes.

Figure 1. Overview of Standard Uranium's Flagship Davidson River Project in the southwest Athabasca Basin uranium district along trend from significant uranium discoveries and resources1,2.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/262330_58b7a86af45fea2c_001full.jpg

Figure 2. Summary map showing major EM conductor trends on Davidson River and completed ExoSphere Multiphysics grid locations, with first vertical derivative magnetics in the background.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/262330_58b7a86af45fea2c_002full.jpg

Davidson River 2025 Exploration

Davidson River covers 30,737 hectares of prime exploration real estate in the Southwest Athabasca Uranium District, highly prospective for basement-hosted uranium deposits along trend from high-grade* uranium deposits under development (Figure 1).

From May 26 to July 8, 2025, the Company and Fleet Space completed the first-ever ExoSphere Multiphysics survey grids in the uranium-rich southwest Athabasca Basin region. Multiphysics surveys collected three types of geophysical data (Ambient Noise Tomography ("ANT"), Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio ("HVSR"), and Gravity) over three (Warrior, Bronco, and Thunderbird) of the four major conductive corridors on the Project. The surveys will provide critical targeting layers in the form of 3D ANT-HVSR shear velocity models and custom inversion models for subsurface density, leveraging both passive seismic and ground gravity datasets as inputs.

"This drill program is the culmination of years of hard work and represents a pivotal point for the Company," said Sean Hillacre, President & VP Exploration of Standard Uranium, "Utilizing the best geoscience tools and techniques available to generate our targets for this year, we are beyond excited to get the drill bit back in the ground at Davidson River. The newly acquired data from the Multiphysics survey has outlined density anomalies in the basement rock coinciding with known graphitic conductors, which are often indicative of potential zones of hydrothermal alteration of host rocks associated with uranium mineralization events. Drill targeting with this strategy has been proven through the discovery of world-class uranium deposits in the SW Athabasca Basin and upgrades our targets across the Project."

Following post-survey data analysis and integration, the Company plans to execute a diamond drill program to begin testing the highest priority targets across all three surveyed conductor corridors. Drilling is planned to be completed this summer, marking the first drill program on the Project since 2022. Positive results from previous drill campaigns will be integrated into drill targeting with the newly acquired Multiphysics data. High confidence datasets from all three survey grids have now been received and are in the process of joint inversion and modeling to refine drill targets for a summer drill program planned for September 2025.

About Davidson River

Davidson River is Standard Uranium's flagship property, located in the southwest Athabasca Uranium District of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, and encapsulates the inferred extension of the structural trend that hosts the Triple R and Arrow uranium deposits (Figure 1). The Project consists of 10 contiguous mineral dispositions and lies approximately 25 to 30 km west of Arrow and Triple R and 75 km south of the past-producing Cluff Lake uranium mines. The Company has completed 16,561 metres of diamond drilling in 39 drill holes on the Davidson River property since 2020, which has further refined the exploration strategy for high-grade basement hosted uranium mineralization on the property3.

Davidson River hosts four main conductive corridors - the Warrior, Bronco, Thunderbird, and Saint trends (Figure 2). These conductive trends are associated with graphitic-sulphidic structures in basement rocks, which are commonly associated with high-grade* uranium systems, providing the conduits for mineralizing fluids. This concept has been proven for all four corridors, with several instances of graphitic-sulphidic fault rocks and reactivated structures intersected along the tested strike length.

Favorable basement rock types and alteration phases have been observed across the strike length of the main trends, resembling those which host other uranium deposits in the southwestern Athabasca Basin region. Key indicators include clay-dravite alteration and stacked lenses of variably strained graphite and sulphide-bearing garnetiferous gneisses and altered feldspar-rich rocks. Structural zones in the basement are locally associated with elevated uranium and/or boron values (over 1,000 ppm B), such as in DR-20-009 and -0113.

The results from diamond drilling programs to date highlight the potential for the Davidson River Project to host significant basement hosted unconformity-related uranium mineralization, and the property contains several priority targets along all four trends that warrant further exploration.

*The Company considers uranium mineralization with concentrations greater than 1.0 wt% U3O8 to be "high-grade".

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 Arrow deposit, Rook I Project, Saskatchewan, NI 43-101 Technical Report on Feasibility Study, Prepared for NexGen Energy Ltd., Effective date: February 22, 2021

2 Feasibility Study, NI 43-101 Technical Report, for PLS Property, Prepared for Fission Uranium Corp., Effective date: January 17, 2023

3 Davidson River Project Overview, https://standarduranium.ca/projects/davidson-river-project

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 233,254 acres (94,394 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 42,303 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: 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/262330

SOURCE: Standard Uranium Ltd.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Pacific Empire Minerals Corp. (TSXV: PEMC) ("Pacific Empire", "PEMC" or the "Company"), a British Columbia copper-gold explorer, reports re-assay results from historical drillhole 2008-01 at its flagship Trident property, including 1.57 metres grading 0.93% Cu and 1.06 g/t Au. The Company has also commissioned a high-resolution LiDAR survey by Eagle Mapping to support final drill pad planning for its 2025 diamond drill program.

Re-Assay of Historical Drilling (2008-01)

Historical drillhole 2008-01, located at the Campbell Trench approximately 1.2 kilometres northwest of the A Zone, was re-assayed to better understand alteration and mineralization in relation to the A Zone - the planned starting point for Pacific Empire's 2025 diamond drill program. In the 2007 program, drilling at the A Zone intersected well-mineralized porphyry dikes.

The re-assay of 2008-01 returned significant copper and gold values, including 1.57 metres grading 0.93% Cu and 1.06 g/t Au, within a broader mineralized interval. These results support the interpretation that Trident hosts a substantial copper-gold system with potential for higher-grade zones.

Highlights From Re-Assay of Historical 2008-01

1.57 metres grading 0.93% Cu and 1.06 g/t Au (20.43-22.00 m)

Multiple samples returning >0.40% Cu with elevated gold values

0.48 g/t gold & 0.45% copper over 12.57 metres (17m - 29.57m)

0.58 g/t gold and 0.42 % copper over 16.0 metres (31m - 47m)

Complete Re-Assay of Historical 2008-01

SAMPLE From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) ST235589 17 18.7 1.7 0.222 0.49 2050 ST235590 18.7 20.43 1.73 0.262 0.79 3250 ST235591 20.43 22 1.57 1.06 2.1 9290 ST235592 22 23.48 1.48 0.711 1.68 7190 ST235593 23.48 25 1.52 0.122 0.12 428 ST235594 25 26.52 1.52 0.029 0.02 67.4 ST235595 26.52 28 1.48 0.612 1.27 5360 ST235596 28 29.57 1.57 0.844 1.7 8860 ST235597 29.57 31 1.43 No Sample ST235598 31 32.62 1.62 0.978 1.77 6100 ST235599 32.62 34 1.38 0.46 1.05 4510 ST235600 34 35.67 1.67 0.757 1.22 4250 ST235601 35.67 37 1.33 0.629 1.13 5640 ST235602 37 38.5 1.5 0.54 0.87 5480 ST235603 38.5 40 1.5 0.258 0.75 3930 ST235604 40 41.5 1.5 0.397 0.82 4570 ST235605 41.5 43 1.5 0.165 0.29 2630 ST235606 43 44.5 1.5 0.26 0.94 3750 ST235607 44.5 46 1.5 0.074 0.34 2540 ST235608 46 47 1 2.39 0.62 2460

"Our work at the A Zone - examining the types of sulfide minerals (including chalcopyrite-to-bornite and chalcopyrite-to-pyrite ratios), the style of alteration, and the presence of mineralized porphyry dikes - gives us strong confidence that our 2025 drilling program at Trident is poised for discovery," stated Brad Peters, President, CEO, and Director of Pacific Empire. "While drillhole 2008-01 returned strong copper and gold grades, these mineralogical indicators point to the heart of the system lying just north of the A Zone. That is exactly where we intend to begin drilling, oriented from south to north to maximize the chance of intersecting the most prospective part of the target."

Sample Preparation and Analysis

Drill core samples from historical hole 2008-01 were submitted to ALS Canada Ltd. in North Vancouver, BC, an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory independent of Pacific Empire. The re-assay results reported herein are from quarter core samples. The quarter core was obtained by cutting in half the remaining half core from historical drillhole 2008-01, which had previously been sawn in half during the original sampling. As a result, the current samples represent one-quarter of the original drill core. Samples were logged, weighed, crushed to 70% passing 2 mm (CRU-31), and a 250 g split was pulverized to 85% passing 75 m (PUL-31). Gold was analyzed by 30 g fire assay with an ICP-AES finish (Au-ICP21). Copper was analyzed by four-acid digestion with ICP-AES (ME-OG62 for ore-grade samples) and multi-element analysis was performed using four-acid digestion with ICP-MS (ME-MS61). The Company inserted certified reference materials into the sample stream. No QA/QC issues were noted.

Figure 1 - Target Areas at Trident

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5412/262335_e09304c364d10a6b_005full.jpg

LiDAR Survey at Trident

To ensure Pacific Empire has the most accurate elevation and topographic information for finalizing drill pad locations in its 2025 exploration program, the Company has engaged Eagle Mapping to complete a high-resolution LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) survey over the Trident property. LiDAR is a cost-effective, remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure the Earth's surface with exceptional accuracy. This data can penetrate through forest canopy to reveal subtle surface features, improve access planning, and integrate seamlessly with geological and geophysical datasets to refine drill targeting. For Trident, this data will help Pacific Empire identify subtle surface features, plan access routes, and position drill pads with precision, improving the chances of a successful 2025 program.

"For exploration, this means we can see the ground surface - even through dense forest - with accuracy down to a few centimeters. This is critical information for several reasons, it will allow us to accurately finalize the locations of drill pads and access trails in addition to ensuring all drill holes are exactly where we want them to be, without compromise," commented Brad Peters, President, CEO, and Director of Pacific Empire.

Corporate Update

Pacific Empire is also pleased to announce the engagement of Hillside Consulting and Media Inc. ("Hillside"), a British Columbia-based firm, to assist in the Company's ongoing marketing and investor relations efforts. Hillside will provide a comprehensive suite of services to enhance the Company's public presence and drive investor engagement. Hillside will provide a digital outreach program to update the market on the Company's copper-gold properties, exploration activities, and overall value proposition. The engagement will commence on August 13th and remain in effect for up to four weeks. The Company will pay Hillside a total of one-hundred thousand dollars (Canadian), plus applicable GST for these services. Pacific Empire continues to pursue all available avenues to grow its investor base and execute on its business growth plans and long-term exploration strategies.

About Trident

The Trident property is an early exploration stage property hosting an alkalic porphyry copper-gold-silver prospect with district-scale potential that is accessible by vehicle. The property is located approximately 50 km to the southeast of NorthWest Copper Corp.'s Kwanika Deposit and 50 km to the northwest of Centerra Gold's Mt. Milligan Mine. The property covers 6,618 hectares endowed with well-established logging roads providing important efficient access to conduct exploration programs.

Copper mineralization on the property was first discovered in 1969, while exploration crews were following up on anomalous stream sediment samples. The following year, Falconbridge optioned the property and over the next two years completed IP and magnetic surveys, geological mapping, soil sampling and diamond drilling. This work ultimately led to the discovery of the A Zone.

Additional exploration programs were completed by Kookaburra Gold Corp. from 1988 through 1991, Solomon Resources Ltd., from 2006 through 2008. In 2013, PEMC optioned the property and in 2014, in turn, PEMC optioned the property to Oz Minerals which completed during that same year, an IP survey and completed a two drillhole, diamond drill program at Trident.

In 2022, Pacific Empire acquired a 100% interest in the property in exchange for granting the vendors a 2% net smelter return royalty ("NSR"). One-half (1%) of the 2% NSR which may be purchased for $500,000 by Pacific Empire.

Prior to 2014, known mineralization on the property was believed to be associated with fracture and/or shear zones structures striking 120 degrees and dipping 75 degrees towards the northeast. A review of historical drill core by the Pacific Empire exploration team has led to a much different interpretation with respect to the nature of known mineralization on the property. The most important observation made was the determination of the presence of hornblende-feldspar monzonite porphyry intrusions detected within drill core obtained from the A Zone. These types of porphyry intrusions are typically characterized by sheeted quartz sulphide veins hosting disseminated chalcopyrite and bornite residing immediately adjacent to and within the porphyry dikes. Other observations include the highest grades noted in historical drilling can be seen to be directly associated with intervals where such porphyry intrusions occur.

About Pinnacle

The Pinnacle project is located 60 km west of Centerra Gold's Mt. Milligan Copper-Gold Mine and 30 km southeast of NorthWest Copper's Kwanika Copper-Gold Deposit in a proven copper-gold porphyry district. Access to the Pinnacle is by road including a new and expanding network of logging roads and trails throughout the main target areas. This improved access is a significant development and is anticipated to contribute to cost effective drill support and provides additional bedrock exposure.

Qualified Person's Statement

Kristian Whitehead, P.Geo., serves as a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information in this news release, approving the disclosure herein.

About Pacific Empire

Pacific Empire is a copper exploration company based in Vancouver, British Columbia and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol PEMC. The Company has a district scale land position in north-central British Columbia totaling 22,541 hectares.

British Columbia is a "Green" copper jurisdiction with abundant hydroelectric power, access and infrastructure in close proximity to the end market.

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

Information set forth in this news release may involve forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", and "intend", statements that an action or event "may", "might", "could", "should", or "will" be taken or occur, or other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mineral exploration; fluctuations in commodity prices; title matters; environmental liability claims and insurance; reliance on key personnel; the potential for conflicts of interest among certain officers, directors or promoters with certain other projects; the absence of dividends; competition; dilution; the volatility of our common share price and volume and the additional risks identified the management discussion and analysis section of our interim and most recent annual financial statement or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262335

SOURCE: Pacific Empire Minerals Corp.
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Sranan Gold Corp. (CSE: SRAN) (FSE: P84) (Tradegate: P84) ("Sranan" or the "Company") announces the commencement of its diamond drilling program for the Tapanahony Project in Suriname. Sranan's drilling on the Randy trend is based on the positive drill results by Iamgold in 2012, small-scale mining by local community members, geologic and Lidar interpretation, and the results reported in recent news releases on high-grade grab samples from new shafts at Randy's Pit (76.6 grams per tonne (g/t) and 23.7 g/t gold - see news release dated July 31, 2025) and trench channel samples of 5 metres of 36.7 g/t gold (see news release dated August 7, 2025).

Sranan plans to validate the results of historical drilling by Iamgold since no core was preserved, and logs are missing structural and lithologic data. The Company is leveraging its team's experience in the structural controls on mineralization gained from other gold projects in the Guiana Shield, and is using oriented core to better understand shear and vein orientation. Drill samples are being logged, photographed and cut using standard operating and QA/QC procedures. The first samples will be shipped soon as they are logged and sampled.





Figure 1: Recent drone image looking north showing hole 25RADD-001 in relation to channel 25RACH-001 and the shafts within the north end of Randy's Pit.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10997/262263_srananimage.jpg

Dr. Dennis LaPoint, Executive VP of Exploration and Corporate Development, commented: "The drone image is an excellent figure to illustrate the potential of the Randy trend. The shafts with grab samples up to 6.5 g/t gold have been overlooked by Iamgold and the local miners, and the area of trench 25RACH-001 has not been prospected. We look forward to conducting systematic diamond drilling to test the strike and depth of the Randy trend."

The Company will provide updates on results from the drilling program as they become available.

About Sranan Gold

Sranan Gold Corp. is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets in Suriname. The highly prospective Tapanahony Project is in the heart of Suriname's modern-day gold rush. Tapanahony covers 29,000 hectares in one of the oldest and largest small-scale mining areas in Suriname.

Sranan Gold also owns the Aida Property consisting of five mineral claims covering an area of 2,335.42 hectares on the Shuswap Highland within the Kamloops Mining Division.

For more information, visit sranangold.com.

Qualified Person

Dr. Dennis J. LaPoint, Ph.D., P.Geo. a "qualified person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this release. Dr. LaPoint is not independent of Sranan Gold, as he is the Company's Executive VP of Exploration and Corporate Development.

THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE HAS NOT APPROVED NOR DISAPPROVED THE CONTENT OF THIS PRESS RELEASE.

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws including, without limitation, the timing, nature, scope and details regarding the Company's exploration plans and results at its projects. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release. Further details about the risks applicable to the Company are contained in the Company's public filings available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), under the Company's profile.

Forward-looking statements and information contained herein are based on certain factors and assumptions regarding, among other things, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves, the realization of resource and reserve estimates, metal prices, taxation, the estimation, timing and amount of future exploration and development, capital and operating costs, the availability of financing, the receipt of regulatory approvals, environmental risks, title disputes and other matters. While the Company considers its assumptions to be reasonable as of the date hereof, forward-looking statements and information are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue importance on such statements as actual events and results may differ materially from those described herein. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or information except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262263

SOURCE: Sranan Gold Corp.
Improved Gross Margins, Positive Adjusted EBITDA, and Robust APAC Growth

(All figures in CAD unless otherwise stated)

TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Adcore Inc. (the "Company" or "Adcore") (TSX:ADCO)(OTCQX:ADCOF)(FSE:ADQ), a global leader in marketing technology empowering businesses to maximize their digital marketing potential with its innovative AI-powered platform ("Marketing Cloud"), today announced its financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2025.

Omri Brill, Adcore CEO and Founder commented, "In Q2, we saw meaningful improvements in gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, and the cash balance compared to the prior year's Q2 - all trending in the right direction. This is a testament to Adcore's continued efforts and focus on improving operational efficiency. The work leading up to today has positioned us for success in the second half of the year, where we anticipate expanding budgets and elevated activity."

Mr. Brill continued, "As we look to the second half of the year, we are more energized than ever. Our newest app, Proposaly - now in its BETA stage - is already proving its potential to transform how businesses manage and close deals by streamlining and optimizing sales workflows. With powerful new features such as our new payment request document type, AI-powered proposal creation, and advanced enterprise-grade user access management, Proposaly is expanding its use cases and delivering more value to our clients."

Mr. Brill concluded, "At the same time, the AI revolution is driving a step-change in our own operational efficiency, allowing us to deliver better results faster and at scale. These innovations, combined with our sharpened focus and growing momentum, position Adcore to capture new opportunities and accelerate growth in the months ahead."

Second Quarter Highlights:

Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was CAD$6.5 million compared to CAD$6.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, a 1% decrease.

Gross profit for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was CAD$3.1 million compared to CAD$2.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, a 6% increase.

Gross margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was 47% compared to 44% for the three months ended June 30, 2024.

Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was CAD$156 thousand compared to a negative Adjusted EBITDA of CAD$173 thousand for the three months ended June 30, 2024.

APAC revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was CAD$3.6 million compared to CAD$2.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, a 35% increase.

Cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2025, were CAD$9.0 million compared to CAD$7.3 million as of June 30, 2024, a 23% increase.

Working Capital for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was CAD$6.3 million compared to CAD$7.3 million as of December 31, 2024.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST INFORMATION

Adcore will host a webcast and conference call to discuss those results on Wednesday August 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. ET.

To register for the conference call/webcast please click here or visit: https://investors.adcore.com/Q22025.

The conference call will include a brief statement by management and will focus on answering questions about Adcore's results. Questions regarding results can be sent in advance to invest@adcore.com.

USE OF NON-IFRS MEASURES

Management uses Adjusted earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") as a key financial metric to evaluate Adcore's operating performance and for planning and forecasting future business operations. Adjusted EBITDA excludes significant items that are non-operating in nature in order to evaluate Adcore's core operating performance against prior periods. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for net earnings, overall change in cash or liquidity of the business as a whole. Management believes the use of Adjusted EBITDA allows investors and analysts to understand the results of the continuing operations of the Company.

ADCORE INC.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

(Express in CAD Thousands)

Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 Operating (loss) profit (466 ) (779 ) Depreciation and amortization 354 380 Share-based payments 65 16 Other non-recurring items 203 210 Total Adjustments 622 606 Adjusted EBITDA 156 (173 )

ADCORE INC.

UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Express in CAD Thousands)

Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 Revenue 6,532 6,592 Cost of revenues 3,456 3,679 Gross profit 3,076 2,913 Research and development, net 513 579 Selling, general and administrative expenses 3,030 3,113 Operating loss (466 ) (779 ) Finance expense 99 169 Finance income (141 ) (31 ) Taxes on income - (226 ) Net loss (425 ) (691 ) Basic loss per share attributable to shareholders 0.010 0.011 Diluted loss per share attributable to shareholders 0.010 0.011

ADCORE INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

(Expressed in CAD Thousands)

June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and cash equivalents 9,001 10,803 Trade accounts receivable, net 3,688 6,561 Other accounts receivable 372 624 Total current assets 13,062 17,988 NON-CURRENT ASSETS: Property, plant and equipment, net 1,144 1,306 Intangible assets, net 4,004 4,137 Total non-current assets 5,148 5,443 Total assets 18,210 23,431 CURRENT LIABILITIES: Trade accounts payable 4,219 8,156 Other accounts payable 2,376 2,355 Lease liability 204 200 Total current liabilities 6,799 10,711 NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES: Accrued severance pay, net 10 10 Deferred tax liability, net - - Lease liability 551 670 Total non-current liabilities 561 680 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: Share capital 11,126 11,760 Additional paid in capital 3,864 4,018 Treasury stocks (1,043 ) (1,043 ) Actuarial reserve (102 ) (102 ) Retained earnings (2,995 ) (2,593 ) Total Equity 10,850 12,040 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 18,210 23,431

ABOUT ADCORE INC.

Adcore is a leading AI-powered marketing technology company.

By combining extensive industry knowledge and experience with its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) powered technology, Adcore offers a unique digital marketing solution that empowers entrepreneurs and advertisers by managing and automating their e-commerce store advertising and monitoring and analyzing the performance of their advertising budget to ensure maximum Return on Investment. Adcore is a certified Google Premier Partner, Elite Tier Microsoft Partner, Facebook Partner, Verified Amazon Partner, and TikTok Partner.

Established in 2006, the Company employs over fifty people in its headquarters in Tel Aviv, Israel and satellite offices in Toronto, Canada, Melbourne, Australia, Hong Kong and Shanghai, China.

For more information about Adcore, please visit https://www.adcore.com/investors/ , https://www.adcore.com/blog or follow us on LinkedIn.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains or may contain certain forward-looking statements, including statements about the Company. Wherever possible, words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "expect", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

For further information, please contact:

ADCORE INC.

https://www.adcore.com/investors/

Nick Campbell, CFA Martijn van den Bemd Investor Relations Chief Partnerships Officer Telephone: 905-630-0148 Telephone: 647-497-5337 Email: nickc@adcore.com Email: martijn@adcore.com

SOURCE: Adcore Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/adcore-reports-second-quarter-2025-results-1060139
Industry experts warn that payroll mistakes are becoming a leading cause of tax penalties for small business owners in 2025.

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / A growing number of small business owners are facing costly penalties from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) due to payroll errors, according to recent industry data. With changing regulations, new digital filing requirements, and heightened IRS enforcement, experts say payroll missteps are more than just bookkeeping blunders - they can become expensive liabilities.

"Payroll isn't just about paying employees on time - it's about paying the right taxes, to the right agencies, at the right time," said a spokesperson for Clear Start Tax, a national tax relief and resolution firm. "We're seeing an uptick in IRS penalties for businesses that underreport, misclassify employees, or miss deposit deadlines, and the financial fallout can be devastating."

Common mistakes include misclassifying workers as independent contractors instead of employees, failing to deposit withheld taxes promptly, and overlooking quarterly filing requirements. These errors can lead to penalties, interest charges, and in some cases, IRS liens or levies.

Clear Start Tax warns that the IRS has increased its use of automated systems to flag payroll inconsistencies.

"Business owners need to understand that payroll taxes are one of the IRS's top collection priorities," the spokesperson added. "Once a payroll issue is identified, the clock starts ticking, and penalties can snowball quickly."

To help business owners stay compliant, Clear Start Tax recommends:

Double-checking worker classification to ensure IRS guidelines are met.

Scheduling automated tax deposits to avoid missed deadlines.

Reconciling payroll reports with tax filings each quarter.

Consulting a tax professional before making major payroll changes.

By answering a few simple questions , taxpayers can find out if they're eligible for the IRS Fresh Start Program and take the first step toward resolving their tax debt.

"Proactive compliance is the best defense," said the spokesperson. "A small oversight today can turn into a major problem six months from now. The businesses that survive and thrive are the ones that get ahead of these issues before the IRS gets involved."

About Clear Start Tax

Clear Start Tax is a nationwide tax resolution and relief firm specializing in helping individuals and businesses address IRS and state tax issues. With a team of experienced tax professionals, the company provides tailored strategies for resolving back taxes, negotiating settlements, and achieving long-term compliance.

Need Help With Back Taxes?

Click the link below:

https://clearstarttax.com/qualifytoday/

(888) 710-3533

Contact Information

Clear Start Tax

Corporate Communications Department

tech@clearstarttax.com

(949) 800-4011

SOURCE: Clear Start Tax

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/small-business-payroll-errors-on-the-rise-clear-start-tax-shares-1060146
Infinity Bio service offerings leverage proprietary MIPSA technology to provide unprecedented insights into antibody reactivity for translational research and therapeutic development.

Infinity Bio, Inc., a leader in advanced immune system analysis, today announced a new partnership with the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) to bring its proprietary antibody reactome profiling platform to researchers throughout Europe. By integrating Infinity Bio's groundbreaking MIPSA (Molecular Indexing of Proteins by Self-Assembly) technology with AIT's established immunomics pipeline and clinical infrastructure, the collaboration will accelerate biomarker discovery and translational research in immunology, virology, autoimmunity, and allergy. Infinity Bio, Inc.'s MIPSA technology achieves unmatched breadth and resolution in mapping the molecular targets of immune responses. The company's current catalog of antigen panels VirSIGHT, HuSIGHT, and EnviroSIGHT blend full-length protein and peptide libraries, providing the most in-depth assays for detecting antibodies targeting all human viruses, self-proteins, or environmental antigens (including allergens, non-viral and microbial proteins), respectively, all in a single test.

"We are incredibly proud to partner with the prestigious Austrian Institute of Technology to expand access to our antibody reactome profiling services across Europe," said Ben Larman, Infinity Bio's Co-founder and CSO. "AIT's deep roots in translational science and innovation make them an ideal collaborator as we work to accelerate biomedical discovery and enable new breakthroughs in immunology research."

Katy Saliba, Infinity Bio's Director of Scientific Development, added:"By partnering with AIT, we are expanding access to the most advanced antibody profiling platform available. This collaboration brings our MIPSA-based assays into the hands of European researchers, empowering them to generate deeper, more meaningful data in immunology and precision medicine. As someone deeply committed to advancing translational science, I am excited about the discoveries this partnership will catalyze."

Through this partnership, Infinity Bio's advanced antibody reactome profiling will become broadly accessible across Europe via AIT's Vienna-based coordination and infrastructure, with sample processing and analysis at Infinity Bio's headquarters in Baltimore.

"This collaboration enables us to offer the European research community access to one of the most advanced antibody profiling platforms currently available," said Dr. Andreas Weinhaeusel, Deputy Head of Molecular Diagnostics at AIT. "By integrating Infinity Bio's MIPSA technology with AIT's immunomics pipeline and clinical network, we are advancing our mission to accelerate biomarker discovery and enable more precise, immune-informed medicine across Europe."

AIT's Molecular Diagnostics team brings over two decades of expertise in translational diagnostics, biomarker discovery, and assay development. In the specific area of antibody profiling, AIT leverages its proprietary immunomics pipeline by integrating Infinity Bio's comprehensive MIPSA-based antigen panels.

As a leading innovation hub in Europe, AIT provides cutting-edge multi-omics solutions and customized multiplex testing to support early disease detection, therapy monitoring, and precision medicine.

About Infinity Bio

Infinity Bio, Inc. is a technology company that provides detailed insights into the immune system using its proprietary antibody reactome profiling platform. The company's core technology, MIPSA, is used to comprehensively analyze the antibody reactome, revealing the targets of individual immune responses against all known human viruses, human proteins (autoimmunity), and environmental antigens (including allergens, non-viral and microbial proteins). Developed at Johns Hopkins University in the Laboratory of Precision Immunology, MIPSA builds on decades of work in genomics, proteomics, immunology, and bioinformatics. Infinity Bio's assays are engineered to enable best-in-class quality, data accuracy, turnaround times and cost-efficiency. For more information, visit www.infinitybio.com.

About AIT

The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) is Austria's largest applied research institute and a key player in diagnostic innovation. Within its Molecular Diagnostics unit, AIT specializes in non- and minimally invasive diagnostics, biomarker research, bioinformatics, biosensor development, and point-of-care systems. With a comprehensive systems approach and strong translational capabilities, AIT enables industrial and clinical partners to develop and implement next-generation diagnostic solutions that improve patient outcomes and drive precision medicine. For more information, visit https://molecular-diagnostics.ait.ac.at.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813755826/en/

Contacts:

Josie Zohny

josie@clarityqst.com
BioStar Renewables is finalizing a 2 MW solar installation at Westtown School, advancing clean energy goals while navigating new township regulations and setting a precedent for sustainable campus development.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / BioStar Renewables, a national leader in renewable energy development, is proud to announce that construction of a 2 MW solar field at Westtown School, a historic institution located on a 600-acre campus in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is nearly complete. This project not only supports the school's sustainability mission but also represents a major milestone in clean energy development under new township regulations.

A Model for Suburban Sustainability

The 8-acre solar array is designed to generate over 3 million kWh of clean energy annually, offsetting more than 1,800 metric tons of CO2e emissions each year-the equivalent of powering 283 homes. The system will supplement Westtown School's energy needs while serving as a living example of environmental leadership and innovation in the education sector.

The clean energy generated will be used to offset campus energy usage, creating long-term economic and environmental benefits for both the school and the broader community.

Building Under New Regulations

This installation is the first large-scale solar project approved under Westtown Township's recently enacted ordinance limiting solar fields to 10 acres. Navigating the evolving regulatory landscape required intensive coordination with township officials and stakeholders, including a conditional use approval process that established a path forward for future solar projects in the region.

Engineering Around Obstacles

To overcome site-specific challenges, BioStar partnered with Bohler, an engineering firm with deep local experience. The team addressed several critical design and permitting concerns, including:

Glare Mitigation : Visual studies and customized engineering solutions were presented to ensure minimal visual impact to surrounding areas.

Stormwater Management: Infiltration basins were designed to meet Pennsylvania DEP standards while preserving the functionality and aesthetics of the site.

Community Engagement Built In

Early in the process, BioStar made community engagement a priority. The team hosted site walks and virtual meetings with local residents to discuss project details and address concerns related to visibility. Comprehensive 3D models and a thoughtful screening plan of evergreens, deciduous, and ornamental trees helped secure strong public support and township approval.

Clean Energy in Action

This project is a testament to what's possible when mission-driven institutions and clean energy developers work together to overcome challenges and deliver long-term impact. As part of its broader portfolio, BioStar Renewables is proud to help schools, municipalities, and businesses transition to energy models that are cleaner, more resilient, and financially sustainable.

Project Quick Facts

Location: Westtown School, Westtown, PA

System Size: 2 MW

Annual Output: 3,000,000+ kWh

Annual Carbon Offset: 1,834 metric tons CO2e

Development Partner: Evolution Sustainability Group

Engineering Partner: Bohler

Estimated Completion: Q4 2025

For press inquiries or to learn more about BioStar's clean energy solutions, please contact:

dsmart@biostarrenewables.com | www.biostarrenewables.com

About BioStar Renewables

BioStar is a full-service renewable energy developer helping businesses and communities transition to clean, cost-effective energy systems. With decades of experience and a focus on long-term value, we specialize in solar, storage, and integrated energy solutions across the U.S.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from BioStar Renewables on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: BioStar Renewables

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/biostar-renewables

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: BioStar Renewables

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/biostar-renewables-continues-to-make-progress-on-2-mw-solar-project-at-westtown-school-in-1060331
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Glenstar Minerals Inc. (CSE: GSTR) (OTCQB: GSTRF) (FSE: VO20) ("Glenstar" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the Green Monster Project in southwestern Nevada, following positive results from the drill program undertaken in May 2025 (see news release dated July 16, 2025).

The ongoing review of the data obtained from this most recent drill program, along with data compiled from previous exploration field work, has raised a number of interesting questions that will hopefully be answered in the phase 2 drill and exploration plan currently being finalized.

The intersection of a zone of robust polymetallic mineralization in a position 150 metres away from the main target zone of the phase 1 drill program has resulted in a change in the focus for exploration of the property, and Glenstar is now planning for extension drilling of the new zone. Hole GMST-4 was meant to test a magnetic high that was previously identified during the Company's exploration field work of the property in 2023. This new zone is approximately 10 metres (32 feet) wide and is centered on a very high-grade zinc occurrence that is >30%, with a significant assay result of up to 177 ppm of silver (161.5 g/t or 5.7 oz/t), 523 ppm of nickel (.0523%), cobalt up to 91.9 ppm (.0019%), and copper that is >.36%. The nickel and cobalt percentages reported are subjectively classified as highly anomalous for the geological structure. Mineralization in this hole was intersected at depths from ~131 metres (~430 feet) to ~142 metres (~465 feet) and occurs in the hanging wall of the Green Monster Fault Zone. All assay results were provided to the Company by ALS in Vancouver, BC.

While hole GMST-4 was simply intended to test a magnetic high, the drill placement and drilling conditions resulted in the hole barely grazing the southeast edge of the magnetic subsurface feature. This led to the discovery of unexpected strong mineralization in a significantly different stratigraphic unit that was not part of the main area of interest for the Phase 1 drill program. It is important to note that the newly discovered zone in no way explains the magnetic anomaly, as the intersection is strongly oxidized and has no magnetic response. The magnetic high has yet to be explained and could result from sulfide mineralization at deeper levels.

The mineralization was intersected within a complex rock unit containing limestone, sandstone, and shale, which is known to be disrupted by numerous thrust faults, and the mineralization is contained within a strongly decalcified section of the host rocks. A general analog from the current data we have is the Eureka District in central Nevada where gold, silver, zinc, and lead were produced from strongly oxidized and faulted carbonate stratigraphy.

According to Glenstar's project geologist Bob Marvin, "The extraordinary results that came back for hole GMST-4 have significantly altered our next stage exploration and drilling plans for the property, and Phase 2 will focus on expanding the new hanging wall zone and testing the continuation along strike and at depth."

This new zone is completely open and represents a significant increase to the target size of the project.

Glenstar's Green Monster Property ties into the larger district scale Green Monster Fault Zone, which is approximately 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) in length and well known for containing a preponderance of zinc, but has also shown a number of areas that are significantly anomalous for nickel, cobalt and copper. Results from previous field work indicated that the Green Monster Property is one of those prospective areas, and the assay results, thus far, from this initial drill program appear to support the preliminary findings from earlier exploration activities.

Project Background & Recent Exploration Work

The Green Monster Property is comprised of 35 federal lode claims covering ~700 acres located in Clark County, Nevada, on the west trending spur of the Spring Mountains and is approximately 40 miles southwest of Las Vegas. Until the recent drill program in May of 2025, no drilling was ever conducted on the property, but the Company's previous identification of robust nickel-copper with highly anomalous cobalt from sampling work done in 2022 indicated that several targets were ideal for shallow RC drilling.

Glenstar acquired the Green Monster Property and conducted initial groundwork in 2022 that included reconnaissance geologic mapping, surface rock sampling, soil sampling, and a drone magnetic survey. Channel sampling across the exposed back of a raise off the main shaft returned 1.18 meters of 3.77% Cu (Copper), 3.06% Ni (Nickel), 0.21% Co (Cobalt) and 6.83% Zn (Zinc). These values are well in excess of select dump samples from historical underground workings and represent in-place, vein style mineralization. Sampling of oxide and sulfide bearing boulders directly downhill of the patented workings has confirmed the presence of very high zinc (>10%) and silver (>200ppm), as well as copper, uranium, and lead. (Sampling results provided above were previously published in the Green Monster Project NI 43-101 Technical Report dated June 20, 2023, Section 7.5).

Extension of Investor Awareness & Marketing Agreement

The Company has agreed to continue the engagement of Altura Media Co. Inc. ("Altura") of Vancouver, British Columbia to provide certain marketing and investor awareness services in accordance with the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange and applicable legislation. Under the terms of the continuation of the agreement, announced July 14, 2025, Altura will continue to deliver strategic advertising, public relations and investor communications services for the company for the extended period for CDN$150,000. These services will be focused on enhancing Glenstar's visibility and engagement within domestic and foreign markets and include a full suite of services including digital advertising, content creation, and shareholder communications support. The Company has the right to extend the service for an additional fee of up to CDN$150,000, based on the scope of services provided during the term of the engagement. The agreement includes provisions for fee adjustments, early termination, and extensions of the engagement, should it be determined to be in the best interests of the Company. Altura (including its directors and officers) is an arm's length party to Glenstar, and to the best of the Company's knowledge, neither Altura nor any related parties hold or have the right to acquire securities of Glenstar Minerals Inc., and the Company will not issue any securities to Altura as compensation for its services. Altura has a business address at 1055 West Georgia Street Suite 1500, Vancouver BC V6E 4N7 and may be contacted via email at contact@alturamedia.co, or by telephone at 778-988-5503.

About Glenstar Minerals Inc.

Glenstar is a mineral exploration company with a focus on polymetallic minerals. These elements are classified as critical minerals and are essential in the manufacturing of sophisticated electronics and other vital energy technologies. The Company's mission is to leverage its knowledge and connections to explore, acquire, and develop critical mineral and energy metal properties throughout the world.

Glenstar's shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the symbol "GSTR", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "VO20", and on the Over-the-Counter market (OTCQB) in the United States under the symbol "GSTRF".

Robert Marvin, P.Geo (ONT) is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is the independent consulting geologist for Glenstar Minerals Inc., who has examined the Green Monster and Wildhorse properties on the ground numerous times since 2022 and 2024 respectively. All fieldwork relating to geologic observations and sampling as reported herein, has been directly overseen by Mr. Marvin who supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"David Ryan"

President & CEO

Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward- looking information"). Without limiting the foregoing, such forward-looking information includes statements regarding the process and completion of any Offering, the use of proceeds of the Offering and any statements regarding the Company's business plans, expectations and objectives. In this news release, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Mineral exploration is subject to risks and uncertainties and there is no assurance that any potential results or findings that may be suggested in this press release will ultimately happen. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good faith belief with respect to future events and is subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking information made in this news release, see the Company's most recent Management's Discussion and Analysis and financial statements and other documents filed by the Company with the Canadian securities commissions and the discussion of risk factors set out therein. Such documents are available at www.sedarplus.ca under the Company's profile and on the Company's website. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date.

This release may contain certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of the Company and certain of the plans and objectives of the Company with respect to the same. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future and there are many factors that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities referred to herein 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 registration requirements. This release may contain statements within the meaning of safe harbour provisions as defined under securities laws and regulations.

We seek safe harbour.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262332

SOURCE: Glenstar Minerals Inc.
Allegion plc (NYSE: ALLE), a leading global security products and solutions provider, through one of its subsidiaries, has acquired Brisant Secure Limited (Brisant), a leading security hardware provider in the UK.

Founded in 2011 and based in Dewsbury, UK, Brisant sells a range of innovative residential security solutions, including mechanical and electronic locks as well as door accessories. Its Ultion brand is renowned for premium high-security lock cylinders and key systems.

Brisant will report into the Allegion International segment, further strengthening Allegion's presence in the region while complementing Allegion UK's non-residential portfolio and its recent acquisition of UAP Limited.

"We are thrilled to welcome the Brisant team to Allegion, further strengthening our European portfolio with yet another leader and innovator in our industry," said Tim Eckersley, Allegion senior vice president and president of Allegion International. "Brisant's premium, patented solutions are a natural complement to Allegion UK's best-in-class product and service capabilities."

Kevin Harvey, managing director of Brisant, will join Allegion with this acquisition, supporting a smooth integration and helping advance Allegion's regional business.

"Joining Allegion is an exciting evolution for Brisant and our customers," Harvey said. "Not only are we expanding our strategic partnerships and scale, but we're now part of a global leader in our space that's known for innovating to make the world safer while also driving strategic growth."

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Allegion

At Allegion (NYSE: ALLE), we design and manufacture innovative security and access solutions that help keep people safe where they live, learn, work and connect. We're pioneering safety with our strong legacy of leading brands like CISA, Interflex, LCN, Schlage, SimonsVoss and Von Duprin. Our comprehensive portfolio of hardware, software and electronic solutions is sold around the world and spans residential and commercial locks, door closer and exit devices, steel doors and frames, access control and workforce productivity systems. Allegion had $3.8 billion in revenue in 2024. For more, visit www.allegion.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including, but not limited to, the company's ability to successfully integrate the acquisition, achieve anticipated strategic and financial benefits from the acquisition, and statements regarding the company's 2025 and future financial performance, the company's business plans and strategy, the company's growth strategy, the company's capital allocation strategy, and the performance of the markets in which the company operates. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "aim," "projected," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast," "outlook," "intend," "scheduled," "targets," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar expressions generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may relate to such matters as projections of revenue, margins, expenses, tax rate and provisions, earnings, cash flows, benefit obligations, dividends, share purchases or other financial items; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including those relating to any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to our products and services; any statements regarding future economic conditions or our performance; any statements regarding pending investigations, claims or disputes; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements, as these statements are based on the company's currently available information and our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events. They are subject to future events, risks and uncertainties many of which are beyond the company's control as well as potentially inaccurate assumptions, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Important factors and other risks that may affect the company's business or that could cause actual results to differ materially are included in filings the company makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in its other SEC filings. All forward-looking statements in this press release are expressly qualified by such cautionary statements and by reference to the underlying assumptions. The company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813504011/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Whitney Moorman Director, Global Communications

317-810-3241

Whitney.Moorman@allegion.com

Analyst Contact:

Jobi Coyle Director, Investor Relations

317-810-3107

Jobi.Coyle@allegion.com

Josh Pokrzywinski Vice President, Investor Relations

463-210-8595

Joshua.Pokrzywinski@allegion.com
NEW YORK and LONDON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyperlink InfoSystem, a leading Laravel development company and global mobile app and web development service provider, proudly offers businesses the opportunity to hire Laravel developers to build secure, high-performing, and scalable web applications. The company's Laravel development services cater to startups, SMEs, and large enterprises, enabling them to accelerate digital transformation and deliver exceptional user experiences.

Leveraging the robustness and elegance of the Laravel framework, Hyperlink InfoSystem's developers create custom solutions tailored to specific business needs. From enterprise-grade applications to API development, eCommerce platforms, and SaaS solutions, the Laravel development company ensures every project is built with clean code architecture, optimized performance, and seamless integration capabilities. Their agile development process, combined with cutting-edge tools, ensures faster turnaround times without compromising on quality or security.

With a decade-long track record in delivering world-class IT solutions, Hyperlink InfoSystem's Laravel development team has successfully executed projects across diverse industries including healthcare, finance, retail, logistics, and more. Businesses looking to hire Laravel developers from Hyperlink InfoSystem benefit from flexible hiring models, transparent communication, and end-to-end project management.

"Laravel's versatility and built-in features allow us to deliver web solutions that are not just functional but future-ready," said Harnil Oza, CEO of Hyperlink InfoSystem. "As a trusted Laravel development company, our Laravel developers bring deep technical expertise and a problem-solving mindset, ensuring every application we build is scalable, secure, and aligned with our clients' long-term vision. By offering flexible hiring options, we empower businesses to scale their development capacity with confidence and achieve faster go-to-market timelines."

Hyperlink InfoSystem continues to stand as the go-to choice for businesses looking to harness the full potential of Laravel for their web development projects. By blending technical excellence with innovative thinking, the company ensures its clients stay ahead in today's competitive digital landscape.

For more information on how to hire Laravel developers from Hyperlink InfoSystem, contact info@hyperlinkinfosystem.com or visit www.hyperlinkinfosystem.com.

About Hyperlink InfoSystem:

Hyperlink InfoSystem is a prominent international enterprise excelling in IT solutions in many domains. Since its humble beginnings in 2011, its specialization in technologies has expanded across web development, mobile app development, enterprise software solutions, and now Artificial Intelligence (AI). With over 1200+ employees and a global presence in the USA, UK, UAE, France, India, and Canada, Hyperlink InfoSystem is dedicated to assisting corporations to leverage the complete power of technology to accomplish their goals.

Contact Details:

Hyperlink InfoSystem

Harnil Oza

+1-309-791-4105

info@hyperlinkinfosystem.com



New York Address:

One World Trade Center

285 Fulton Street suite 8500,

New York, NY 10007,

United States



Ahmedabad Address:

C-308, Ganesh Meridian,

Opp. Kargil Petrol Pump, S.G. Highway,

Sola, Ahmedabad, 380061

India



London Address:

Level 30, The Leadenhall Building,

122 Leadenhall Street,

London EC3V 4AB



Canada Address:

151 Yonge Street, 11th Floor,

Toronto, Ontario, M5C 2W7,

Canada

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2712637/Hyperlink_InfoSystem_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hyperlink-infosystem-empowers-businesses-with-skilled-laravel-developers-for-scalable-and-secure-web-solutions-302528854.html
Detroit, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (OTCID: AITX) (the "Company"), along with its wholly owned subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. ("RAD"), today confirmed that Bailey's Promise is available to all public, private, faith-based, and other accredited K-12 schools across the United States. The initiative provides eligible schools with no-cost software licenses for AI firearm detection, ensuring broad access to this vital security technology.





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5243/262292_aitx-rad-expands-baileys-promise-250813-1920x1080.jpg

Since the initial announcement last week, Bailey's Promise has generated overwhelming interest from schools of every type nationwide, with inquiries and enrollment requests arriving daily. The program has also drawn strong interest from mainstream media, resulting in early coverage and multiple additional stories now in production.

The first three schools have already been selected to participate, with further details to be announced soon. To date, more than 50 education leaders have reached out, representing or being part of districts encompassing over 300 individual schools.

Bailey's Promise was created to help safeguard students, educators, and school communities by enabling real-time detection of visible firearms using existing compatible cameras. Named in honor of Bailey Holt, a victim of the 2018 Marshall County High School shooting, the program removes financial barriers to deploying this technology and gives schools a critical tool to help prevent tragedies.

"When we launched Bailey's Promise, our goal was simple, remove every barrier to getting this life-saving technology into schools," said Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and RAD. "By confirming that all types of K-12 schools are eligible, we are making sure no community is left out of the protection this technology provides."

Bailey's Promise equips eligible schools with the ability to detect visible firearms in real time using their existing compatible cameras. The program provides a software license for up to ten cameras at no cost, with optional onboarding and support services available to ensure fast and effective deployment. Once installed, the system can alert designated staff within seconds of a confirmed detection, helping schools initiate emergency protocols without delay.

"As a former FBI Agent and one of the first responders to the Oxford High School shooting, I have seen firsthand how quickly these events unfold and how devastating the impact can be," said Troy McCanna, RAD's Chief Security Officer. "Knowing that Bailey's Promise is available to every K-12 school in the country means more communities can have the critical layer of protection that gives staff and law enforcement the time they need to respond and save lives."

RAD has submitted its firearm detection software for designation under the Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies (SAFETY) Act through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Once approved, this designation would formally recognize the solution as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology, extending important liability protections to both RAD and the schools that deploy the technology.

Schools, law enforcement agencies, and security decision-makers are encouraged to learn more about Bailey's Promise and request a demonstration. Additional information, technical requirements, and enrollment details are available at www.radsecurity.com/baileys-promise.

AITX, through its subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), is redefining the nearly $50 billion (US) security and guarding services industry1 through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry's existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD delivers these tremendous cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house.

The Company's operations and internal controls have been validated through successful completion of its SOC 2 Type 2 audit, reinforcing the Company's credibility with enterprise and government clients who require strict data protection and security compliance.

RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time.

About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX)

AITX is an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organizations to gain new insight, solve complex challenges and fuel new business ideas. Through its next-generation robotic product offerings, AITX's RAD, RAD-R, RAD-M and RAD-G companies help organizations streamline operations, increase ROI, and strengthen business. AITX technology improves the simplicity and economics of patrolling and guard services and allows experienced personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. Customers augment the capabilities of existing staff and gain higher levels of situational awareness, all at drastically reduced cost. AITX solutions are well suited for use in multiple industries such as enterprises, government, transportation, critical infrastructure, education, and healthcare. To learn more, visit www.aitx.ai, www.radsecurity.com , www.stevereinharz.com, www.radgroup.ai, www.raddog.ai , and www.radlightmyway.com, or follow Steve Reinharz on X @SteveReinharz.

CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the "Company"). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.

###

1 https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/security-services-industry/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262292

SOURCE: Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc.
LONDON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Claire's Accessories UK Ltd. ("Claire's UK"), the operator of Claire's stores across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, today announced that it has filed a Notice of Intention to Appoint Administrators ("NOI").

The company's directors have taken this step in an effort to protect the business and its stakeholders while options for the future continue to be evaluated. Will Wright and Chris Pole from Interpath are expected to be formally appointed as joint administrators to Claire's UK in the coming days.

"This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claire's across all markets," said Chris Cramer, CEO of Claire's. "In the UK, taking this step will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward. We are deeply grateful to our employees, partners and our customers during this challenging period."

After the Joint Administrators have been appointed, Claire's UK stores will remain open and continue to trade. Store employees will remain in their positions, and customers can continue to shop in-store as usual.

This announcement follows Claire's U.S. and Canadian affiliates recently commencing court-supervised restructuring proceedings. In the U.S., the Bankruptcy Court approved, on an interim basis, initial "first day" motions to provide liquidity to complete the Chapter 11 process. In Canada, Claire's Stores Canada Corp. is proceeding under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Separate proceedings are also already underway in Germany and Austria.

This filing applies exclusively to Claire's UK and does not affect operations in markets beyond the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

About Claire's Holdings LLC

Claire's Holdings LLC is a fully integrated, global fashion brand powerhouse committed to inspiring self-expression through the creation and delivery of exclusive, well-curated products and experiences. Through its global brands, Claire's and Icing, the company delivers an immersive, omnichannel shopping experience with owned and concession stores throughout North America and Europe as well as around the world. More information regarding Claire's is available at corporate.claires.com.

Media Contact

Prosek Partners for Claire's

Pro-Claires@prosek.com

Katy Broomhead, Director of Communications at Interpath

katy.broomhead@interpath.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749543/Claires_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/claires-uk-files-notice-of-intention-to-appoint-administrators-302529000.html
Dispatch continues to scale last-mile logistics through strategic investments in AI, talent, and customer success.

BLOOMINGTON, MN / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Dispatch is proud to announce its inclusion on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious recognition highlights Dispatch's sustained growth and technological innovation within the highly competitive logistics and transportation sector.

"Being named to the Inc. 5000 once again is an incredible achievement and speaks to our ongoing commitment to scaling last-mile delivery for businesses of all sizes," said Andrew Leone, CEO and Co-Founder of Dispatch. "This recognition re?ects the hard work our team has invested in expanding our capabilities, particularly in areas like AI, company culture, and customer retention. As the industry continues to evolve, we remain focused on driving impactful change in the logistics space."

Key Growth Drivers

Over the past year, Dispatch has experienced signi?cant growth, driven by strategic investments in technology, talent, and customer success. The company has expanded its AI-driven solutions, enabling an efficient and scalable last-mile delivery platform for businesses across various industries. Dispatch has also strengthened its team, focusing on fostering a positive culture and promoting internal talent, which has been critical to maintaining operational excellence. As a result, Dispatch has seen a remarkable increase in both its customer base and revenue, with a 68% three-year growth rate.

Inc. Methodology

Companies on the 2025 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2021. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-pro?t, and independent - not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies - as of December 31, 2024. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2021 is $100,000; the minimum for 2024 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons.

For the full Inc. 5000 list, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Inc.: Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the pro?le of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the

ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

About Dispatch: Dispatch is rede?ning last-mile delivery for the modern business. As the premier B2B delivery platform, Dispatch empowers organizations with scalable, technology-driven solutions that streamline logistics, enhance visibility, and improve customer satisfaction. Through its robust delivery management software, seamless API integrations, and a reliable network of independent contractor drivers, Dispatch enables businesses of all sizes to simplify and optimize their last-mile operations.

Media Contact:

For more information about Dispatch, please contact the media representative at:

Email: pr@dispatchit.com

Website: www.dispatchit.com

SOURCE: Dispatch

Related Images

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/dispatch-ranks-on-inc.-5000-list-for-fourth-consecutive-year-rec-1060121
AXIS Capital Holdings Limited ("AXIS Capital" or "AXIS" or the "Company") (NYSE: AXS) today announced that it has launched AXIS Capacity Solutions, a new business unit dedicated to developing and supporting structured, and multi-line portfolio capacity deals on both a facilitated and delegated basis. The company has appointed David Murie to the newly created role of Head of AXIS Capacity Solutions, where he will report to AXIS Group Chief Underwriting Officer Dan Draper and be based out of the Company's London office.

"The creation of AXIS Capacity Solutions is designed to support our distribution partners while directly addressing an increasing trend across the Global specialty insurance market. Multi-line facilities are growing at a faster pace than the broader insurance market, reflecting a widening market share being placed through these structures, a trend that we expect will only increase," said Vince Tizzio, President and CEO of AXIS.

Added Mr. Draper, "Through AXIS Capacity Solutions we will work in tandem with our strategic partners to develop and source multi-line portfolio structures at scale, leveraging our expertise and global underwriting platform including our licensing footprint at Lloyd's. In David, we have an excellent leader to guide AXIS Capital Solutions who brings a strong mix of experience spanning underwriting portfolio management, strategic sourcing and deal structuring, and regulatory and compliance acumen."

Mr. Murie, a +15 years Chartered Accountant, has served as Global Head of Underwriting Governance Execution and Chief of Staff to the Group CUO at AXIS; Head of Business Performance AXIS International Insurance (now Global Markets); and Head of FP&A AXIS International Insurance. Prior to AXIS, his experience included managerial roles at Aviva.

About AXIS Capital

AXIS Capital, through its operating subsidiaries, is a global specialty underwriter and provider of insurance and reinsurance solutions. The Company has shareholders' equity of $6.2 billion at June 30, 2025, and locations in Bermuda, the United States, Europe, Singapore and Canada. Its operating subsidiaries have been assigned a financial strength rating of "A+" ("Strong") by Standard Poor's and "A" ("Excellent") by A.M. Best. For more information about AXIS Capital, visit our website at www.axiscapital.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813568775/en/

Contacts:

Investor Contact

Cliff Gallant

AXIS Capital Holdings Limited

investorrelations@axiscapital.com

+1 415 262 6843



Media Contact

Mairi MacDonald

AXIS Capital Holdings Limited

mairi.macdonald@axiscapital.com

+44 7785 280 083
LONDON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Modulaire Group, Europe and Asia Pacific's leading business services company specialising in modular services and infrastructure, has today announced that Pavan Pattada has decided to step down to return to the United States to pursue new opportunities.

The Board has initiated a formal search process to appoint a permanent successor. In the interim, oversight of the business will be led by Chairman Richard Ingram, working in close partnership with Modulaire's Executive Committee to ensure continued strategic and operational alignment.

"We thank Pavan for his leadership and for the important role he has played in guiding our strategic direction," said Richard Ingram, chairman of Modulaire Group. "The Transformation plans he has architected are clear and will continue to be our ongoing focus."

The Board noted that Modulaire remains on track with its transformation plans, and is well-positioned to continue to deliver on its operational and financial goals.

For more information, please visit: https://www.modulairegroup.com.

About Modulaire Group

Modulaire is a leader in European modular services and infrastructure. We create smart spaces for people to work, learn and live. Our business helps customers find the right space solution, no matter what their requirements. Modulaire has operations in 23 countries, with over ~330,000 modular space and portable storage units, and 5,000 remote accommodation rooms. The company operates as Algeco, its largest brand, across much of Europe and the United Kingdom. Other operating brands include Advante in the United Kingdom, Altempo in France, Ausco and NET Modular in Australia, and Portacom in New Zealand.

For further information:

Investor Relations

investorrelations@modulairegroup.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/modulaire-group-announces-ceo-transition-302528805.html
BROOKLYN, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / IEH Corporation (OTC:IEHC) yesterday filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the 1st fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Highlights include:

11% Decrease in Revenue as compared to first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025

$755,306 loss in Operating Income

Cash 43% higher than first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025

Backlog increase of 25% since beginning of Fiscal Year 2026

Over $2.5 million in orders supporting missile defense programs booked in recent weeks

For the quarter ended June 30, 2025, IEH had revenues of $6,308,155 as compared to $7,104,977 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 reflecting an 11% decrease; an operating loss of $755,306 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2026 as compared to an operating gain of $332,979 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2025; a net loss of $654,618 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2026 as compared to a net gain of $392,787 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2025; and a basic loss per share of $.27 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2026 as compared to a basic gain per share of $.17 for 1st quarter fiscal year 2025.

Dave Offerman, President and CEO of IEH Corporation commented, "As forecasted in prior communications, while our long-term trajectory continues to trend upwards, our results from one quarter to the next may be uneven. This is reflected in our first quarter, as revenue was lower than the last few quarters due primarily to customer schedule delays, along with the still slow recovery of the commercial aircraft sector.

However, the long-term projections, especially in our largest sector, defense, remain strong. Indeed, we recently booked over $2.5 million in orders in support of various missile defense programs, including PATRIOT, AMRAAM, LTMADS and others. Our sales pipeline indicates more orders are on the horizon. Our commercial space launch business continues to grow, and we continue to eagerly anticipate a return to pre-COVID levels of business in the commercial aerospace sector. Initiatives to grow our product lines and markets served via organic and inorganic growth continue, and we look forward to sharing more good news in the coming quarters.

On behalf of the management team and staff of IEH, we again wish to express our sincere gratitude for the support of our valued shareholders."

About IEH Corporation

For over 80 years and 4 generations of family-run management, IEH Corporation has designed, developed, and manufactured printed circuit board (PCB) connectors, custom interconnects and contacts for high performance applications. With its signature Hyperboloid technology, IEH supplies the most durable, reliable connectors for the most demanding environments. The Company markets primarily to companies in defense, aerospace, medical, space and industrial applications, in the United States, Canada, Europe, Southeast and Central Asia and the Mideast. The Company was founded in 1941 and is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Certain statements contained in this press release, and in related comments by the Company's management, include "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historical facts, including, without limitation, statements or expectations regarding our financial condition, statements or expectations regarding our revenues, cash and backlog, expectations regarding future cash requirements, revenue and revenue recovery, including for fiscal year 2026 and beyond, projected timelines for making our SEC filings or successfully preventing our registration from suspension or revocation and expectations regarding our efforts and ability to resolve our inventory accounting issues are forward-looking statements. These statements often include words such as "believe," "expect," "estimate," "plan," "will," "may," "would," "should," "could," or similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These statements are based on certain assumptions that the Company has made on its current expectations and projections about future events. The Company believes these judgments are reasonable, but you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results, and you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The Company's actual performance or results could differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, both positive and negative, as they will depend on many factors about which we are unsure, including many factors beyond our control. Among other items, such factors could include: any claims, investigations or proceedings arising as a result of our past due periodic reports, including changes in the proceedings related to the SEC's Order Instituting Administrative Proceedings and Notice of Hearing pursuant to Section 12(j) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; our ability to remediate our inventory accounting issue; our ability to reduce costs or increase revenue; changes in the macroeconomic environment or in the finances of our customers; changes in accounting principles, or their application or interpretation, and our ability to make accurate estimates and the assumptions underlying the estimates; our ability to attract and retain key employees and key resources; and other risk factors discussed from time to time in our filings with the SEC, including those factors discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on June 12, 2025, and in subsequent reports filed with or furnished to the SEC. Additional information concerning these and other factors can be found in our filings with the SEC. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. Except as may be required by applicable law, we do not undertake or intend to update or revise our forward-looking statements, and we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information or future events or developments. Thus, you should not assume that our silence over time means that actual events are bearing out as expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. You should carefully review and consider the various disclosures we make in our filings with the SEC that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks, uncertainties and other factors that may affect our business.

Contact:

Dave Offerman

IEH Corporation

dave@iehcorp.com

718-492-4448

SOURCE: IEH Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/aerospace-and-defense/ieh-corporation-filed-form-10-q-for-fiscal-quarter-ended-june-30-2025-1060344
Collective recognition marks 15 total appearances for the Altimus Capital family of companies

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Altimus Capital, LLC proudly announces that three of its portfolio renewable energy companies - RxSun, Fresh Coast Solar, and Verde Solutions - have been named to the prestigious 2025 INC. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. This milestone marks a combined 15 total appearances on the list for Altimus Capital, reinforcing the group's leadership in delivering innovative solutions to advance the U.S. energy industry.

Altimus Capital



All three honorees are part of Altimus Capital's mission to transform how the world uses energy - helping businesses and homeowners reduce costs, increase efficiency, and accelerate the transition to renewable power. This year's recognition reflects the sustained growth and leadership of:

RxSun - 2x honoree (2024, 2025) Overall Rank: 640 Illinois Rank: 27 Chicago Metro Rank: 25 Industry: Energy (Rank 8) 3-Year Growth Rate: 654% CEO & Founder: Christopher Gersch

Fresh Coast Solar - 3x honoree (2023, 2024, 2025) Overall Rank: 1,695 Illinois Rank: 80 Chicago Metro Rank: 76 Industry: Construction (Rank 100) 3-Year Growth Rate: 258% President & Co-Founder: Jeremy Vavrik; Co-Founder: Adam Kay; Managing Partner: Christopher Gersch

Verde Solutions - 6x honoree (2017, 2018, 2019, 2023, 2024, 2025) Overall Rank: 2,319 Illinois Rank: 104 Chicago Metro Rank: 99 Industry: Energy (Rank 23) 3-Year Growth Rate: 183% CEO & Founder: Christopher Gersch



Previous Altimus Capital company recognition also includes Navigate Power - 4x INC. 5000 honoree (2017, 2018, 2019, 2023), President & Founder: Christopher Gersch, CEO: Brian Cecola.

"These awards represent the hard work, dedication, and passion of our teams across the country," said Christopher Gersch, CEO, Chairman, and Founder of Altimus Capital. "Our companies are not just growing, they are powering progress across the energy industry. By helping businesses, institutions, and homeowners embrace clean energy, we are making measurable impacts on the environment, the economy, and the communities we serve."

About Altimus Capital

Altimus Capital, LLC is a privately held parent company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations across the United States and clients worldwide. Founded by Christopher Gersch, a seasoned energy and finance professional with over 20 years of experience, Altimus Capital is driven by entrepreneurial spirit, market insight, and a passion for building a better future. Its portfolio includes Verde Solutions, Navigate Power, RxSun, Fresh Coast Solar, and YourPortal, which collectively deliver high-impact solutions in energy consulting, sustainable development, clean energy construction and digital marketing.

At Altimus Capital, we believe business should be a Force for Good. United by a shared vision, we are building the nation's most trusted family of companies dedicated to transforming how the world uses energy and technology. Through bold innovation and ethical leadership, we deliver insights and solutions that drive financial security, energy independence, and environmental progress for our clients and the communities they serve.

SOURCE: Altimus Capital

Related Images

INC 5000



View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/altimus-capital-celebrates-three-portfolio-companies-earning-spo-1059648
ARLINGTON, VA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / FriskaAi announced today an agreement with DexCom, Inc., the global leader in glucose biosensing, to integrate data from Dexcom G7 and Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems into the FriskaAi platform. Under the agreement, data from Dexcom CGMs will be integrated with Friska Ai, the company's groundbreaking AI-powered healthcare platform supporting physicians and patients with actionable personalized care management programs.

FriskaAi is a physician-directed health and wellness platform that supports the management of diabetes and other chronic diseases by helping providers take an evidence-based approach to preventive care. The EHR-agnostic FriskaAi platform leverages advanced AI and mobile technology to generate personalized health insights and recommendations, empowering patients to take control of their health journey in partnership with their clinical team.

"Impacting more than 38 million Americans, diabetes has emerged as a major public health problem, and its effective management has become a foundational element of preventive medicine," says Shaji Nair, CEO of FriskaAi. "Dexcom's pioneering CGMs are vital tools not only for diabetes management but also for informing broader care decisions. FriskaAi is excited about the potential this integration with Dexcom presents to the physicians relying on our platform for chronic disease management and the patients seeking greater control over their health and wellness."

Dexcom CGMs use a small, wearable sensor to continuously measure and send glucose levels wirelessly to a smart device or receiver in real-time, without the need for fingerpricks. Dexcom CGMs also offer a suite of customizable alerts that can warn of high or low glucose levels and send predictive alerts to help users spend more time in range.

The FriskaAi mobile app securely integrates with Dexcom CGMs and other smart devices, as well as health apps, for analysis by the powerful HIPAA-compliant FriskaAi platform. That data, along with other clinical data and studies, is continuously monitored by sophisticated AI-powered algorithms that alert the patient when action is recommended and generate actionable reports for use by the clinician at the point of care to inform care decisions.

Aggregated health data is also analyzed within the FriskaAI platform to help physicians identify trends and risks within their patient populations, enabling more proactive and preventive care strategies.

About FriskaAi

FriskaAi is a powerful AI-enabled EHR-agnostic platform that helps physicians and other providers take an evidence-based approach to preventive care. The physician-initiated platform leverages advanced AI- and mobile technology to provide patients with personalized health insights and recommendations, empowering them to take control of their health journey in partnership with their clinical team. This aggregated health data, including information from patients' glucometers, other smart devices, and health apps, is continuously analyzed by advanced evidence-based algorithms that alert the patient when action is needed and provide clinicians with actionable reports to inform care decisions. FriskaAi also supports population health strategies by analyzing aggregated health data to identify trends and risks within a defined patient population. For more information, visit www.friska.ai.

Media Contact:

Michele Nachum

NPC Creative Services

michele@npccs.com

SOURCE: FriskaAi

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/friskaai-and-dexcom-enter-cgm-data-integration-agreement-1060203
Reinforcing its long-standing commitment to resilience and sustainability

By Sue Henry

NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / In recognition of the 20th anniversary of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Entergy brought together nearly 40 employee volunteers and community partners to enhance resilience and strengthen environmental sustainability. The event was held in collaboration with Green Light New Orleans, a nonprofit organization focused on providing simple, effective environmental solutions to residents.

Volunteers installed rain barrels at homes in the Hollygrove, Leonidas, and Fontainebleau neighborhoods, areas prone to flooding. The barrels, painted in bright, original designs, serve as practical tools for stormwater management by capturing rainwater, reducing runoff, and helping prevent property damage. Each barrel diverts an estimated 2,220 gallons of water annually from the city's overburdened drainage system.

"As we observe the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we're not just reflecting, we're responding with action," said Deanna Rodriguez, president and CEO of Entergy New Orleans. "This initiative reflects Entergy's commitment to resilience, not just as a company, but as a neighbor - helping families reduce the impact of heavy rainfall."

Laura Jayne, a Hollygrove resident and staff member at Loyola University, had been waiting nearly a year to receive a rain barrel for her home. She welcomed the delivery on Wednesday morning.

"I have been wanting to get a rain barrel for a very long time," said Jayne. "Even though I have not experienced extreme flooding, I think the rain barrels are great to help prevent potential flooding."

Since its founding in 2006, Green Light New Orleans has distributed and installed more than 3,000 rain barrels across the city. The barrels not only provide cost savings to residents but also reduce stress on drainage infrastructure and contribute to the city's long-term climate goals.

"Entergy has been a partner with Green Light New Orleans since we first started in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and we deeply appreciate this enduring partnership," said Dr. Christian Ryan, executive Director at Green Light New Orleans. "Together, we're working to help New Orleans residents make small changes that have a big impact."

This initiative is part of Entergy's broader commitment to community investment and environmental stewardship. Over the last two decades since Katrina's devastation, Entergy shareholders have invested $95 million to support nonprofit organizations in Orleans Parish while our employees in the area have completed more than 130,000 hours of volunteer service.

In partnership with Rebuilding Together New Orleans, Entergy will hold another employee-driven Day of Service on Aug. 29, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Katrina. That initiative will focus on home weatherization efforts to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs for some of the city's most vulnerable residents.

Through acts of service and community partnership, Entergy continues to honor the past while investing in a safer, more resilient future for New Orleans.

For more information about Entergy's restoration efforts following Hurricane Katrina, visit entergy.com/Katrina20.

About Entergy New Orleans

Entergy New Orleans provides electricity to approximately 209,000 customers in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. Entergy New Orleans is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We're investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We're also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergyneworleans.com and connect with @EntergyNOLA on social media.

About Green Light New Orleans

Green Light New Orleans (GLNO) empowers residents with practical, sustainable solutions to local environmental challenges, with a focus on building community resilience. We believe collective efforts yield significant impacts. Our mission is to share sustainability practices and provide accessible resources for household-level climate adaptation to every person who wishes to make a difference.

Media inquiries:

Susan Henry

504-679-3613 (office)

504-339-7986 (cell)

shenry4@entergy.com

View original content here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Entergy Corporation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Entergy Corporation

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/entergy

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Entergy Corporation

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/entergy-commemorates-hurricane-katrina-with-community-action-and-environmental-impact-1060348
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Entergy New Orleans is strengthening our commitment to education and workforce development through our continued partnership with YouthForce NOLA's summer internship program. The four-week immersive experience provides "career-connected learning" by introducing students to real-world work environments and a range of career opportunities.

This summer, Entergy New Orleans welcomed five interns from high schools across the Greater New Orleans area. In addition to receiving a $2,240 stipend, participants learned job readiness skills and explored different business units within the company. Working alongside professionals in engineering, communications, and public affairs, the interns gained first-hand insight into career paths in the energy sector.

"This internship program is important because it exposes students to professions in the utility business," said Anthony Tamporello, substation superintendent at Entergy New Orleans. "It also gives interns a first-hand look at the work that we do and helps them understand how Entergy supports and connects with the communities we serve."

Interns left the program with more than just a paycheck. They sharpened their communication skills, experienced professional work environments, and developed meaningful relationships with mentors who supported their growth.

View original content here.

Entergy

Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We're investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We're also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and follow @Entergy on social media.

Corporate Social Responsibility at Entergy

For more than 100 years, Entergy has powered life in our communities through strategic philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy's corporate social responsibility initiatives help create and sustain thriving communities, position the company for sustainable growth and are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our top CSR priorities are education/workforce development, poverty solutions/social services and environmental programs. Entergy annually contributes $16-$18 million in shareholder-funded grants to approximately 2,000 nonprofit organizations in the communities where we operate. In addition, our employees volunteer more than 100,000 hours in those communities' values at more than $3 million.

"This internship has impacted my life because it helped confirm my future," said Derrick Singleton, a senior at Edna Karr High School. "I want to study mechanical engineering in college and seeing engineers at work every day gave me the confidence to pursue that path."

"My experience as an intern Entergy is important to me because it exposed me to the career field of electrical engineering," said Anthony Henderson, a rising senior at Sarah T. Reed High School. "I was able to get hand-on experience working with electrical engineers which helped me better understand what they do on a daily basis."

YouthForce NOLA equips rising high school seniors with the tools and experiences needed to thrive after graduation. Through strategic partnerships, the organization connects classroom learning to real-world careers, helping students chart their futures with purpose.

"Entergy invests generously in our community, from hosting safety demonstrations at a high school career expo to providing high school internship opportunities that introduce young people to career paths within the energy sector that they may not otherwise know about," said Sarah Bell, chief of industry exposure and experience at YouthForce NOLA. "YouthForce NOLA is grateful for the longstanding commitment Entergy has made and continues to make, supporting young people on their path to career readiness and preparing them to lead and innovate in our community."

This partnership highlights Entergy's ongoing investment in preparing the next generation of leaders and underscores the company's commitment to helping young people explore their interests and define their career goals.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Entergy Corporation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Entergy Corporation

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/entergy

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Entergy Corporation

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/entergy-new-orleans-partners-with-youthforce-nola-to-empower-students-through-summer-inte-1060350
NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Infinite Global Consulting ("Infinite" or the "Company"), a leading international communications and reputation management firm, announces today that it has partnered with and received a strategic investment from ParkSouth Ventures ("ParkSouth"), a Charlotte, North Carolina-based private investment firm. The investment will establish Infinite as a strategic communications platform and fuel the firm's continued growth and expansion.

Since 2001, Infinite has supported the communications and reputation management needs of many of the world's largest and most successful professional services firms, technology enterprises, and public and privately held companies. Led by a team of seasoned professionals across its New York City (headquarters), San Francisco, and London offices, Infinite works closely with its clients to provide strategic communications consulting, public and media relations, crisis and litigation communications, and thought leadership and content development.

The executive leadership team that includes Founder & CEO Jamie Diaferia, President Zach Olsen, and Chief Operating Officer Isabel Podda will continue to lead the Company in this next phase of growth.

"We have been singularly focused on building an agency that attracts and retains the best clients and talent in the industry, and that mission requires vigilance to keep pace with their needs. We decided several years ago that to further fulfill our potential we would need the right investment partner. In ParkSouth, we found an aligned partner that can add strategic value, as well as investment capital," said Jamie Diaferia.

ParkSouth was founded and is led by Steven Ruoff and Richard Veal. The firm targets investments in knowledge-based service companies and focuses on partnering with founder- and entrepreneur-owned businesses to achieve both organic and acquisition-led growth.

"This investment reflects our focused effort to back a strategic communications firm that delivers the senior-level counsel organizations need to navigate complexity, reputational risk, and a constantly evolving media landscape," said Steven Ruoff and Richard Veal, partners at ParkSouth Ventures. "The team, led by Jamie, Zach, and Issy, has built a truly exceptional business, and we're looking forward to supporting their continued growth."

Park South has partnered with Michael Koziol, an experienced agency operator who will advise the company on operations, growth strategy, M&A, and integration.

"Jamie and the team at Infinite have built an incredibly special and valuable company that combines world-class strategic communications capabilities and a world-class company culture," said Michael Koziol. "I am excited about the partnership and opportunity to support them in the realization of their ambition and potential."

PALAZZO served as exclusive financial advisor to Infinite on the transaction and STANZO provided sourcing support for ParkSouth. ParkSouth's investment was made in partnership with Plexus Capital. Rutan & Tucker and Lewis Silkin provided legal counsel to Infinite and Moore & Van Allen and Dentons provided legal counsel to ParkSouth.

About Infinite Global

Infinite is an award-winning communications and reputation management firm. Led by seasoned media professionals, the firm provides communication and creative services including media relations, crisis and litigation communications, research, media training, and a full range of content solutions. Infinite has offices in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and London. For more information, learn more about what we do.

About ParkSouth Ventures

ParkSouth Ventures is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based growth-oriented private investment firm focused on investing in and partnering with founder and entrepreneur-owned businesses in the United States. ParkSouth seeks to invest alongside experienced and highly capable management teams, invest in both organic and acquisition-led growth initiatives, and build great businesses that thrive well beyond its investment horizon. The firm has a "hands-on" investment approach to creating long-term value. ParkSouth and its partners have a deep understanding of how to partner with and build privately held businesses while preserving the culture and ensuring the legacies founders, owners and management teams have worked tirelessly to cultivate. To learn more, visit www.parksouthventures.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/infinite-global-consulting-announces-investment-partnership-with-parksouth-ventures-302529053.html
The AI Assistant Market presents strong growth potential, driven by advancements in NLP, increasing automation demand, and deep integration into enterprise workflows. However, market entrants must address challenges such as data privacy compliance, high deployment costs, and ongoing optimization needs. North America offers mature, high-value opportunities, while Asia-Pacific presents rapid expansion potential through localized, multilingual solutions. Strategic investments in security, cost-efficient deployment, and sector-specific customization can enhance competitiveness.

LEWES, Del., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global AI Assistant Market Size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 22.18% from 2024 to 2031, according to a new report published by Verified Market Research. The report reveals that the market was valued at USD 14.14 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 71.42 Billion by the end of the forecast period.

The AI Assistant Market is expanding as businesses leverage intelligent virtual agents to streamline operations, enhance customer support, and improve decision-making. Technological advancements in AI, speech recognition, and contextual understanding are accelerating adoption across industries.

Key Highlights of the Report:

Market Size & Forecast : In-depth analysis of current value and future projections

: In-depth analysis of current value and future projections Segment Analysis : Breaks down the market by Product Type, Deployment Type, Application, and End-User for focused strategy development.

: Breaks down the market by Product Type, Deployment Type, Application, and End-User for focused strategy development. Regional Insights : Comprehensive coverage of North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and more

: Comprehensive coverage of North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and more Competitive Landscape : Profiles key players, their strategic initiatives, and innovation-driven growth approaches.

: Profiles key players, their strategic initiatives, and innovation-driven growth approaches. Growth Drivers & Challenges : Analyzes the forces accelerating growth and the restraints hindering large-scale adoption.

: Analyzes the forces accelerating growth and the restraints hindering large-scale adoption. Challenges and Risk Assessment: Evaluates ethical debates, off-target effects, and regulatory complexities.

For more information or to purchase the report, please contact us at: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample/?rid=436597

Browse in-depth TOC on "Global AI Assistant Market Size"

202 - Pages

126 - Tables

37 - Figures

Global AI Assistant Market Overview

Market Driver

1. Advancements in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning

The AI Assistant Market is gaining strong momentum due to significant progress in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning technologies. These advancements are enabling AI assistants to deliver more intelligent and human-like interactions.

AI assistants can now understand context and user intent more accurately.

Multi-language capabilities are expanding their use in global operations.

Enhanced accuracy is increasing adoption in sectors such as customer service, healthcare, BFSI, and e-commerce.

Enterprises are using NLP-powered assistants to streamline workflows and improve customer engagement.

These capabilities are transforming AI assistants from basic automation tools into essential business intelligence assets in the digital-first marketplace.

2. Growing Demand for Automation in Customer Engagement

Automation in customer interaction is becoming a necessity across industries, fueling the demand for AI assistants. Companies are seeking cost-effective solutions to handle large volumes of queries without compromising quality.

AI-powered chatbots, voice assistants, and virtual agents are replacing repetitive manual tasks.

Businesses can now provide 24/7 customer support, improving service accessibility.

Personalized interactions are helping brands build stronger customer relationships.

Faster query resolution is increasing conversion rates and brand loyalty in competitive markets.

This trend is especially visible in retail, travel, telecom, and service-based industries where customer experience (CX) is a key differentiator.

3. Integration with Enterprise Workflows and Business Applications

AI assistants are evolving beyond standalone applications to become deeply integrated within enterprise systems. This is streamlining operations and enhancing decision-making capabilities.

Integration with CRM, ERP, and productivity tools improves process efficiency.

Automation of repetitive tasks saves time and reduces operational costs.

AI assistants are aiding in scheduling, reporting, and predictive analytics.

Hybrid and remote work environments are benefiting from increased productivity and collaboration.

Such integrations are reinforcing AI assistants as critical enablers of digital transformation strategies.

To Purchase a Comprehensive Report Analysis: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/select-licence/?rid=436597

Market Restraint

1. Data Privacy and Security Concerns

Despite the benefits, security and privacy remain major hurdles for AI assistant adoption. These solutions often process sensitive information, creating potential risks.

Handling of personal and corporate data raises data breach concerns.

Compliance with laws such as GDPR and CCPA increases complexity.

Unauthorized access or misuse of data can harm brand trust.

Highly regulated sectors like banking, healthcare, and government are more cautious in adoption.

For many organizations, these privacy challenges create hesitation in deploying AI assistant solutions at scale.

2. High Implementation and Maintenance Costs

AI assistants require significant investment before they begin delivering value, making them less accessible for smaller enterprises.

Costs include software licensing, customization, and integration with existing systems.

Continuous algorithm updates and NLP model improvements add to expenses.

Compatibility upgrades with evolving enterprise systems are necessary.

High total cost of ownership can limit adoption to larger organizations.

This financial barrier is especially pronounced in emerging markets and industries with limited technology budgets.

3. Continuous Need for System Training and Optimization

To remain effective, AI assistants must be continuously updated and trained to match evolving customer expectations and market conditions.

Regular updates are needed to maintain high accuracy levels.

Domain-specific knowledge and multi-lingual capabilities require expert involvement.

Without ongoing optimization, performance can degrade over time.

Skilled AI engineers, linguists, and data scientists are essential for system maintenance.

This dependency on specialized talent and continuous improvement can slow adoption in resource-constrained businesses.

Geographical Dominance: North America holds a dominant share in the AI Assistant Market, driven by strong technology infrastructure, early adoption of NLP and voice recognition, and the presence of leading AI innovators in the U.S. and Canada. Enterprises in sectors like BFSI, healthcare, and retail are leveraging AI assistants for automation and enhanced customer experience. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by rising digital transformation in China, Japan, and India, alongside expanding investments in AI-driven enterprise solutions and multilingual virtual assistant capabilities.

Key Players

The "Global AI Assistant Market" study report will provide a valuable insight with an emphasis on the global market. The major players in the market are Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Baidu Inc., Google Inc., IBM Corporation, Nuance Communications Inc., eGain Corporation, CSS Corp., Verint.

AI Assistant Market Segment Analysis

Based on the research, Verified Market Research has segmented the global market into Product Type, Deployment Type, Application, End-User and Geography.

AI Assistant Market, by Product Type Virtual Assistants Chatbots Voice Assistants Conversational AI

AI Assistant Market, by Deployment Type On-Premises Cloud-Based

AI Assistant Market, by Application Customer Support Personal Assistance Sales & Marketing Human Resources

AI Assistant Market, by End-User Individual Users Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Large Enterprises

AI Assistant Market, by Geography North America U.S Canada Mexico Europe Germany France U.K Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India Rest of Asia Pacific ROW Middle East & Africa Latin America



Why This Report Matters:

This report provides actionable intelligence for strategic decision-making, helping stakeholders identify emerging opportunities, anticipate market shifts, and assess competitive dynamics. It delivers a data-driven perspective to navigate challenges and leverage AI transformation effectively.

Who You Should Read This Report:

Market Research Professionals - For accurate forecasts and competitive insights

- For accurate forecasts and competitive insights B2B Enterprises & Industrial Leaders - To optimize AI integration strategies

- To optimize AI integration strategies Investors & Analysts - To assess growth potential and risk factors

- To assess growth potential and risk factors Technology Providers & Startups - To align product development with market demand

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Visualize AI Assistant Market using Verified Market Intelligence -:

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ai-assistant-market-is-expected-to-generate-a-revenue-of-usd-71-42-billion-by-2031--globally-at-22-18-cagr-verified-market-research-302528943.html
HALIFAX, NS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Silver Tiger Metals Inc. (TSXV:SLVR)(OTCQX:SLVTF) ("Silver Tiger" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce preliminary results from its 2025 Summer Exploration Program on the prospective Northern Veins, located 2 kilometers North of the historic El Tigre Mine and outlines initial exploration plans to test several undrilled greenfield areas on the Southern Veins on its 100% owned, silver-gold El Tigre Project (the "Project" or "El Tigre") located in Sonora, Mexico. Current exploration work consists of mapping and sampling both surface and historic underground workings to define drill ready targets for Q4-2025.

Glenn Jessome, President & CEO stated "As we get nearer to making a construction decision for the open pit portion of the El Tigre Project and with our technical team nearing completion of the underground PEA in coming weeks, we are advancing our summer exploration program. We are currently exploring the prospective area north of the historic El Tigre Mine through focused mapping and sampling of both historic core and underground workings. We will soon begin similar exploration on the Southern Veins."

Mr. Jessome further stated, "The Northern Veins, a faulted offset of the veins at the historic El Tigre Mine, show the same structure, mineralogy, grades and orientations as the well-defined veins around the historic El Tigre Mine on which our PFS and pending underground PEA are based. With the initial 10 kilometers of mapped vein strike length we have to the North and recent assay results we are disclosing today, we see the potential to drill these Northern Veins in our Winter 2025 program."

Exploration Objectives 2025

Begin drilling on Northern Veins in Q4-2025

Generate drill targets in the Southern Veins at Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro through analysis of old mining works

With 25 kilometers of mapped vein strike complete, which is 50% of the project area, the Corporation intends to increase mapping coverage to 70%

Overview - Veins

The El Tigre historic mine district is located in Sonora, Mexico and lies at the northern end of the Sierra Madre silver and gold belt which hosts many epithermal silver and gold deposits, including Dolores, Santa Elena and Las Chispas. The high-grade epithermal veins dip steeply to the west, and are typically 0.5 metres wide, and locally can be up to 5 metres in width. Over 25 kilometers of these veins at El Tigre have been mapped along strike on surface. Based on the extensive historic workings, the veins are inferred to extend to more than 450 metres depth with many veins reaching strike length of 3 kilometers or more. At the El Tigre property there are both brownfields and greenfields targets defined by extensive Silver Tiger drilling. Silver Tiger has found over 60 small-scale workings in addition to the historic El Tigre Mine.

The El Tigre Mine Veins contain over 90% of the Corporation's Measured and Indicated Resource and is the focus area of the PFS and pending PEA. The El Tigre Vein, the Seitz Kelly Vein and the Sooy Vein (the "El Tigre Mine Veins") have over 10 kilometers of combined vein strike length of which only 50% is drill tested. Gold was first discovered in 1896 with mining beginning soon after on the El Tigre Mine Veins (Figure 1). Significant underground mining took place with over 32 kilometers of development completed before mine closure with a reported 353,000 ounces of gold and 67.4 million ounces of silver extracted at an average grade of over 2 kilograms silver equivalent per ton.The Corporation's Drill Hole ET-21-264, returned assays up to 82,827.3 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres proximal to historically mining stopes, showing high-grade vein mineralization continues at depth and along strike (see the Corporation's press release dated Nov 9, 2021).

Figure 1: El Tigre Project - Northern and Southern Exploration Targets

The Northern Vein Area has over 10 kilometers of combined strike length confirmed by surface mapping and sampling, drilling and the presence of underground workings mainly on the Fundadora, Protectora and Caleigh Veins. This area is considered brownfields with 15% of the mapped strike of veins being drilled. These veins are the faulted offset of the El Tigre Mine Veins and exhibit the same structure, mineralogy, grades, orientations, strike length and width (1-2 metres) as the well-defined El Tigre Mine Veins that account for bulk of the Corporation's Mineral Resource Estimate.

The Southern Veins which includes Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro is considered greenfields with veins striking for over 10 kilometers and no drilling ever conducted on this area. This prospective area is evidenced by historic workings and high-grade channel sampling. The El Toro, Lluvia de Oro and La Mancha Veins are hosted in the El Tigre Formation, a permissive formation that is the host for the Stockwork Zone, which is the basis of the Company's PFS (see the Corporation's Press Release dated October 22, 2024).

Figure 2: Current Sampling of Historic Workings - Northern Veins

Northern Veins - 2025 Summer Exploration Plan - Brownfields Targets

Exploration crews have begun to locate, catalog, map and sample historic adits and drifts in the Northern Veins (Figure 2). This work is aimed at confirming the geological similarities of the Northern Vein mineralized systems to the well-established El Tigre, Seitz-Kelly and Sooy Veins. Once assessment of the historic workings is complete all adits and drifts will be scanned with a LiDAR-capable drone. For the remainder of the summer, Silver Tiger will continue to define targets to drill in Q4-2025.

After surveying the tunnels, the geologists mapped the veins and then collected chip samples across the veins at intervals between 3 to 5 metres along the length of the tunnel. The samples were chipped with a rock hammer across the face of the vein exposed in the tunnel. The minimum length of the samples was 0.50 metres, and the samples weighed approximately 3 to 5 kg. Sampling was stopped at either the end of the tunnel or when access was restricted due to ground conditions. Of the 110 chip samples collected, the chip sample assay results received to date are set out in the table below (see Table 1 and Figure 2 for Sample Location).

As work progresses on the Northern Veins, exploration crews will begin analysing Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro on the Southern Veins.

Table 1: Significant Channel Samples on Northern Veins

Vein Channel ID Samples From To Interval(1) Sample # Au Ag AgEq(2) m m m g/t g/t g/t Fundadora ETL-2078 Composite: ETS-4847/4848/4849 0.0 1.6 1.6 3 0.15 464 476 Fundadora ETL-2078 Including: ETS-4849 1.1 1.6 0.5 1 0.24 654 672 Fundadora ETL-2079 Composite: ETS-4853/4853 0.0 0.8 0.8 2 0.40 95 118

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

Reconnaissance drilling was conducted on the Northern veins by the Company in 2017 and 2020, before shifting focus to the development of the El Tigre Mine Veins. Significant veins were consistently intercepted in the North (Table 2) proving the continuity and grade seen in the underground historic workings. Anaconda (c. 1982-83) completed a 250 metre exploration drift on the Northern Veins (Figure 4).

Table 2: Historic Significant Intercepts in Northern Veins

Hole ID Comment From m To m Length (1) Au g/t Ag g/t AgEq (2) g/t g/t g/t ET-83-015 Fundadora Vein 172.4 173.5 1.1 14.38 537.7 1,616.1 Including 172.4 173.0 0.60 24.40 913.0 2,743.0 ET-17-144 Caleigh Vein 88.3 91.4 3.15 10.10 1,990.9 2,748.4 Including 88.3 89.1 0.85 37.20 7,338.9 10,128.9 ET-20-158 Caleigh Vein 89.1 91.2 2.10 1.46 280.5 390.1 including 90.0 90.7 0.70 4.09 815.0 1,121.6 ET-20-163 Protectora Vein 10.0 18.4 8.40 0.42 165.5 197.1 Including 16.9 17.4 0.50 3.56 1,782.0 2,049.1 ET-20-164 Protectora Vein 17.0 28.4 11.40 0.66 87.1 136.8 Including 17.0 17.5 0.50 10.50 805.0 1,592.5 ET-20-193 Benjamin Vein 114.0 119.5 5.50 0.08 726.l 732.2 Including 116.5 119.5 3.00 0.09 1,303.2 1,310.1

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

The Northern Veins consist of both historically mined veins including the Protectora and Fundadora (Figure 3); and veins discovered by the Corporation including the Benjamin and Caleigh (see the Corporation's Press Releases dated Sept 10, 2020 and Nov 17, 2020).

Figure 3: Plan View El Tigre Project- Northern Veins

Caleigh Vein

Discovered in 2020 by the Corporation, the Caleigh Vein is the highest grade of the Northern Veins with, for example, DDH ET-17-144 returning assays at 10,129 g/t silver equivalent over 0.85 metres (Table 2). The Caleigh Vein is mapped on surface for 1.2 kilometers with only 25% of the vein drill tested.

Benjamin Vein and Black Shale

The newly discovery Benjamin Vein has been mapped on surface for 1 kilometer, with only 25% drill tested. Drill hole DDH ET-20-193 returned assays at 1,310 g/t silver equivalent over 3.0 metres (Table 2). The Benjamin Vein also hosts significant Black Shale style mineralization that is seen in the El Tigre Mine Veins.

Fundadora Vein - Northern Veins

This vein was intermittently mined during the time of the El Tigre Mine (c. 1892-1930) and therefore hosts many small workings including a 250+ metre exploration drift constructed by Anaconda Mining in 1982 (Figure 4). Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-83-015 returning assays at 2,743 g/t silver equivalent over 0.6 metres (Table 2). The Fundadora Vein has been mapped over 2 kilometers on surface with only 15% of the vein drill tested.

Figure 4: Plan View -Historic UG Sampling and Mapping Fundadora Workings

Protectora Vein - Northern Veins

The Protectora Vein extends along strike for 2 kilometers and from its position, dip. and strike it can be considered the north extension of the Sooy Vein. This vein has only been drill tested for 15% of the mapped strike length. Like the Fundadora vein, this vein was mined historically as The Palomita Mine and the North Tigre Mine. Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-20-163 returning assays at 2,049 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres (Table 2).

Figure 4: Historic Workings Exploration - Protectora Vein

Southern Veins - Lluvia De Oro, La Mancha and El Toro - Greenfields Target

Reconnaissance mapping and sampling was conducted in the Lluvia de Oro Area by the Company in 2016 and 2020. The El Toro and La Mancha Veins, while mapped, remain unsampled.

Significant historic underground workings (greater than 500 metres in length) were found in Lluvia de Oro with grab sampling completed in a 2020 program returning assays up to 1.90 g/t gold and 1,300 g/t silver (Figure 5). Importantly, the Lluvia de Oro vein system is contained within the El Tigre formation, the host to the Stockwork Zone of which the Corporation's 2024 PFS is centered. There is potential to extend open pit mineralization from the far south of the proprosed open pit south towards Lluvia de Oro.

Figure 5: Plan View El Tigre Project- Lluvia de Oro - Southern Veins

Table 3: Drillhole Locations for Significant Intercepts - Northern Veins

Hole/Channel ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length ET-83-015 670,320.0 3,387,317.9 2054.9 91 -61 187.7 ET-17-144 670,678.9 3,386,642.0 2001.5 90 -45 224.0 ET-20-158 670,678.8 3,386,646.9 1999.4 90 -45 131.2 ET-20-163 670,827.8 3,386,689.9 2020.0 90 -25 61.0 ET-20-164 670,825.9 3,386,689.9 2019.6 90 -45 114.4 ET-20-193 670,390.0 3,386,120.8 1935.6 90 -50 186.1 ETL-2078 670,471.0 3,387,332.0 2124.0 270 -14 2.7 ETL-2079 670,471.0 3,387,330.0 2123.0 230 15 0.8

Underground Preliminary Economic Assessment Update

The Company's Technical Team and lead consultants (P&E Mining), are near completion of underground PEA with expected release in Q3-2025. The underground PEA is centered on the high-grade Vein, Sulfide and Shale Zones. Final process flow diagram design and costing are in process with initial cost (CAPEX) and operational expenditures (OPEX) established, and metallurgical and geotechnical studies complete.

Open Pit Update

The Company is preparing for a construction decision of the Open Pit portion of the El Tigre Project. Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (KCA) of Reno, experts in heap leach design, have been retained for a Detailed Engineering to Process Study. WSP has completed the preliminary Engineering to Heap Leach and Ponds.

About Silver Tiger and the El Tigre Historic Mine District

Silver Tiger Metals Inc. is a Canadian company whose management has more than 27 years' experience discovering, financing, and building large hydrothermal gold and silver mines in Mexico. Silver Tiger's 100% owned 28,414 hectare Historic El Tigre Mining District is located in Sonora, Mexico. Principled environmental, social and governance practices are core priorities at Silver Tiger.

Silver Tiger commenced work on its El Tigre Project in 2017. Silver Tiger has drilled over 150,000 metres at the El Tigre Project, with 119,000 metres completed since 2020. Silver Tiger has completed a maiden MRE in 2017 and MRE updates in 2023 and 2024. The PEA for the El Tigre open pit was released in November 2023.

The 2024 PFS for the El Tigre open pit delivered robust economics. The PFS projects an After-Tax NPV of US$222 million at a 5% discount rate, an After-Tax IRR of 40.0%, and a payback period of 2.0 years. This open pit operation is expected to have a 10-year mine life. The El Tigre project delivers a life of mine undiscounted After-Tax Cash Flow of US$318 million, with initial capital costs of $86.8 million (including $9.3 million in contingency). Operating cash costs are projected at $973/oz AuEq and $12/oz AgEq, with AISC at $1,214/oz AuEq and $14/oz AgEq. The economics of the Project have been evaluated based on a discounted $26/oz silver price and gold price of $2,150/oz.

A PEA for the permitted underground mineral resource is expected to be released in Q3-2025.

VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation - Silver Tiger's El Tigre Project

VRIFY is a platform being used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps.

Access the Silver Tiger Metals Inc. Company Profile on VRIFY at: https://vrify.com

The VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation for Silver Tiger Metals Inc. can be viewed at: https://vrify.com/decks/17174 and on the Corporation's website at: www.silvertigermetals.com.

Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control and Data Verification

The diamond drill core (HQ size) is geologically logged, photographed and marked for sampling. When the sample lengths are determined, the full core is sawn with a diamond blade core saw with one half of the core being bagged and tagged for assay. The remaining half portion is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work.

The sealed and tagged sample bags are transported to the Bureau Veritas facility in Hermosillo, Mexico. Bureau Veritas crushes the samples (Code PRP70-250) and prepares 200-300 gram pulp samples with ninety percent passing Tyler 200 mesh (Code PUL85). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code FA430) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code MA200 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530).

Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and includes the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed Silver Tiger's QA/QC protocols.

Qualified Person

David R. Duncan, P. Geo., V.P. Exploration of the Corporation, is the Qualified Person for Silver Tiger as defined under National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Duncan has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

For further information, please contact:

Devin Devarennes

VP Business Development & Investor Relations

902 233 3656

devin@silvertigermetals.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT:

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements". All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, resources and reserves, the ability to convert inferred resources to indicated resources, the ability to complete future drilling programs and infill sampling, the ability to extend resource blocks, the similarity of mineralization at El Tigre to Delores, Santa Elena and Chispas, exploration results, and future plans and objectives of Silver Tiger, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "may", "is expected to", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans", "projection", "could", "vision", "goals", "objective" and "outlook" and other similar words. Although Silver Tiger believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, 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 Silver Tiger's expectations include risks and uncertainties related to exploration, development, operations, commodity prices and global financial volatility, risk and uncertainties of operating in a foreign jurisdiction as well as additional risks described from time to time in the filings made by Silver Tiger with securities regulators.

SOURCE: Silver Tiger Metals Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/silver-tiger-reports-on-current-and-proposed-exploration-on-veins-north-and-south-1060354
Accelerating AI-powered Cloud & Digital transformation for Australian enterprises

BENGALURU, India and MELBOURNE, Australia, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced the formation of a joint venture with Telstra, Australia's leading telecommunications and technology company. Accelerating Infosys' strategy to help clients navigate their AI journey, this collaboration will propel AI-enabled cloud and digital solutions for Australian businesses.

Infosys will acquire 75% of the shareholding in Versent Group1, Australia's leading Digital Transformation Solutions Provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Telstra Group, that delivers cloud and digital transformation. Infosys will have operational control, while Telstra will continue to retain a 25% minority stake in Versent Group, reflecting its confidence in the shared potential for growth and customer value, combining Telstra's connectivity, Versent's local digital engineering expertise, and Infosys' global scale.

Versent Group has earned its reputation by helping Australian enterprises design and implement cloud strategy with industry leading partners - delivering digital transformation with deep industry expertise. With a team of 650 engineers, advisors, strategists spread across Australia, Versent Group strengthens Infosys' local presence. Versent Group primarily serves large blue-chip organizations with established presence in government & education, financial institutions, energy, and the utilities sector.

This strategic collaboration will see Versent Group's cloud and digital transformation expertise boosted by Infosys' advanced AI capabilities, Cloud, Data and Digital consulting services. The collaboration will leverage Infosys Topaz and cloud offering Infosys Cobalt, as well as the cybersecurity capabilities of The Missing Link. It aims to deliver a new wave of differentiated value to accelerate end-to-end digital transformation for Australian enterprises and government corporations.

In 2024, Infosys had announced a strategic multi-year collaboration with Telstra to accelerate its software engineering and IT transformation journey and enhance customer experience. Further, in 2025, Infosys announced a collaboration with Telstra International, to advance technology leadership, drive innovation and support Telstra's new Connected Future 30 strategy. This joint venture is another key step in strengthening the strategic collaboration between the two organizations to further the technology transformation agenda for enterprises across the region.

Vicki Brady, Chief Executive Officer, Telstra said, "Our collaboration with Infosys reflects our confidence in the value we can unlock together. Their global scale, deep industry knowledge, and culture of innovation and service excellence will be instrumental in accelerating Versent Group's growth and impact across the region."

Salil Parekh, Chief Executive Officer, Infosys said, "We are excited to bring Infosys Topaz to enable transformative AI-first capabilities to complement Versent Group's cloud-first digital foundation. Expanding our trusted collaboration with Telstra, with whom we share a valued relationship, unveils a new opportunity to further accelerate the innovation agenda for enterprises across the region."

Oliver Camplin-Warner, Group Executive for Telstra Enterprise added, "We're excited about what's ahead as we deepen our strategic collaboration with Infosys. By combining the strengths of our three businesses, we're creating a unique proposition that will help Australian enterprises grow and innovate in today's fast-moving, AI-driven digital landscape."

Anand Swaminathan, Executive Vice President - Global Head of Communications, Media & Technology, Infosys added, "By combining Infosys' global leadership in digital services with the strength and trust of the Telstra brand, we are uniquely positioned to deliver cloud and AI solutions that are secure, resilient, and built for the digital needs of Australia and New Zealand. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment in accelerating AI-led innovation, and enabling a more connected, intelligent, and digital future for the region."

Infosys is delighted to welcome Versent Group and its leadership team.

The transaction is expected to close during the second half of FY 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

1 Versent Group is Telstra Purple Pty Ltd and is the integration of Versent, Epicon, Telstra Purple Digital and associated Cloud Access products. Telstra Purple Digital refers to carve-out from Telstra's Enterprise Tech Services/Telstra Purple portfolio, and excludes Alliance Automation Pty Ltd, Aqura Technologies Pty Ltd, and Telstra Broadcast Services Pty Limited.

About Telstra

Telstra is Australia's leading telecommunications and technology company, delivering advanced connectivity across mobile, fixed, and digital platforms. We enable people, businesses, and governments to connect to what matters most-locally and globally. Through innovation and network leadership, we're building a more resilient, responsive, and inclusive digital future.

About Versent Group

Versent Group is a market leading digital transformation partner, uniting the capabilities of Versent, Telstra Purple Digital, and Epicon under one brand. With deep expertise in cloud-native solutions and a commitment to delivering real outcomes, Versent Group is focused on helping organisations achieve lasting success in a simpler, stronger way.

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. Over 320,000 of our people work to amplify human potential and create the next opportunity for people, businesses, and communities. We enable clients in 59 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer clients, as they navigate their digital transformation powered by cloud and AI. We enable them with an AI-first core, empower the business with agile digital at scale and drive continuous improvement with always-on learning through the transfer of digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. We are deeply committed to being a well-governed, environmentally sustainable organization where diverse talent thrives in an inclusive workplace.

Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, or our future financial or operating performance, are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding the execution of our business strategy, increased competition for talent, our ability to attract and retain personnel, increase in wages, investments to reskill our employees, our ability to effectively implement a hybrid work model, economic uncertainties and geo-political situations, technological disruptions and innovations such as artificial intelligence ("AI"), generative AI, the complex and evolving regulatory landscape including immigration regulation changes, our ESG vision, our capital allocation policy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity, capital resources, our corporate actions including acquisitions, and cybersecurity matters. Important factors that may cause actual results or outcomes to differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements are discussed in more detail in our US Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/infosys-and-telstra-announce-joint-venture-in-australia-302529108.html
HOBOKEN, N.J., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smart hospitality solutions provider Hudini and IT Support & Consultancy firm Nexevo Solutions today announced a strategic partnership to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end technology solutions for hospitality customers across the UK and Europe.

By combining Hudini's guest experience software with Nexevo's robust hardware offering, the partnership enables hotels and service-driven businesses to implement fully integrated technology ecosystems.

The collaboration marks a significant step in Hudini's expansion strategy within the UK and broader European markets. Through this partnership, Hudini can now provide its customers with a complete technology package, combining its proprietary guest experience software with high-quality hardware such as smart TVs, interactive kiosks, and tablets, sourced and supported by Nexevo Solutions. With Nexevo's local presence and customer service capabilities, Hudini's customers will benefit from streamlined procurement, faster deployment, localised support, and a unified service experience.

As part of the agreement, Nexevo Solutions will act as a reseller for Hudini, introducing the brand's innovative guest engagement software to its established network of clients in hospitality, retail, healthcare, and leisure sectors. The partnership allows Hudini to tap into new regional opportunities while offering customers a seamless solution that bridges both software and physical devices.

"Partnering with Nexevo Solutions strengthens our ability to deliver a truly end-to-end digital experience for hospitality brands in Europe. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to simplify technology adoption for hotels," said Prince Thampi, CEO and Founder of Hudini.

Ben Donaldson, CEO and Founder said: "By joining forces with Hudini, we're bringing powerful digital experiences to our clients with a blend of best-in-class hardware and innovative guest experience software. Together, we're empowering hospitality businesses to deliver smarter, more connected experiences that meet the demands of today's digital-first guests."

About Hudini

Hudini is the leading digital transformation platform for the hospitality industry, leveraging proprietary middleware and an AI-powered omnichannel guest interface driven by data. Designed to boost guest engagement and hotel revenue, Hudini enhances the guest experience through personalised, immersive interactions. With over 100 pre-built integrations across various functionalities, Hudini allows guests to communicate, control, and connect with hotels like never before. Serving over 500 hotels across 30 countries, Hudini is rapidly setting the standard for digital transformation in hospitality. To learn more about Hudini, visit www.hudini.io

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hudini-enters-a-strategic-partnership-with-nexevo-solutions-302529125.html
IRAEmpire has published a detailed guide on selling a HVAC business to help consumers generate maximum profit when they sell their business.

HOUSTON, TX / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / IRAEmpire.com has published a new, in-depth guide tailored specifically for HVAC business owners looking to sell their companies. This expert resource walks sellers through every stage of the process - from initial valuation to final closing - with a focus on the unique considerations and opportunities in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

The guide is designed for HVAC company owners, family-run service businesses, and entrepreneurs planning an exit within the next 12-24 months. With industry-specific insights, it addresses operational, legal, and financial details that can make or break a deal, while offering strategies to maximize sale price and minimize risk.

Check Out the Full Business Selling Guide here.

What Makes the HVAC Market Different

The HVAC industry is experiencing unusually strong buyer interest, fueled by its status as an essential service, predictable recurring maintenance revenue, and the accelerating shift toward energy-efficient and smart climate-control systems. These factors make HVAC businesses resilient, even during economic slowdowns, which attracts both institutional investors and strategic acquirers. Private equity firms, regional consolidators, and even direct competitors are seeking well-run operations with strong customer bases, service contracts, and skilled technicians. However, successfully selling an HVAC company requires far more than simply putting it on the market. It calls for a deliberate strategy to highlight the company's earnings stability, growth potential, and competitive advantages - all while protecting confidentiality and positioning the business for maximum buyer competition.

Inside IRAEmpire's HVAC Business Selling Guide

The newly released guide moves beyond generic selling advice and dives into the realities of HVAC transactions. It includes:

Step-by-step preparation checklist - From cleaning up financial records and organizing service contracts to documenting equipment inventory and service history.

Valuation strategies specific to HVAC companies - Understanding how recurring maintenance agreements, fleet condition, technician certifications, and geographic coverage impact your business's worth.

Proven ways to attract serious buyers - How to market to private equity firms, strategic acquirers, and local competitors without losing confidentiality.

Negotiation and deal structuring tips - Including earn-out provisions, employee retention clauses, and non-compete agreements tailored to service-based industries.

Common pitfalls to avoid - From undervaluing long-term service contracts to overpromising growth potential during due diligence.

Legal and tax planning essentials - How to structure the sale for maximum after-tax proceeds while staying compliant with state licensing requirements.

"Selling an HVAC business is different from selling a retail shop or a tech startup," said Ryan Paulson, spokesperson for IRAEmpire.com. "There are operational assets, skilled labor considerations, and long-term service contracts that directly influence value. This guide is built to help owners showcase their strengths, avoid costly mistakes, and close a deal with confidence."

Consumers can Read the Free Business Selling Guide Here.

Why the Timing Is Right

The HVAC sector is entering one of the strongest seller's markets in recent years. Demand for high-efficiency heating and cooling systems is growing as homeowners and businesses respond to rising energy costs, stricter environmental regulations, and incentives for eco-friendly upgrades. At the same time, a national shortage of skilled HVAC technicians has made established companies with trained staff and reliable service teams especially attractive to buyers.

On the demographic side, many baby boomer owners are preparing to retire, increasing the volume of quality businesses hitting the market. This, combined with active acquisition strategies from private equity groups and regional consolidators, means serious buyers are competing for limited opportunities. Prepared sellers stand to secure premium valuations, faster closings, and more favorable deal terms.

Leveling the Playing Field for Sellers

IRAEmpire's guide aims to give independent HVAC owners the same strategic insight, tools, and market awareness that corporate buyers and seasoned investors typically bring to the negotiation table. In most transactions, buyers arrive armed with teams of attorneys, accountants, and industry analysts who know exactly how to identify undervalued assets and push for favorable terms. Many small business owners, by contrast, enter the process unprepared - unsure how to quantify the true value of their recurring maintenance agreements, how to present their brand's market reputation, or how to counter aggressive deal structures.

This imbalance often leads to lower sale prices, longer closing timelines, and unnecessary concessions. The IRAEmpire HVAC Selling Guide changes that dynamic. It gives sellers a clear playbook for preparing financial statements, calculating industry-specific valuation multiples, showcasing the strength of their workforce, and protecting their client lists. It also teaches owners how to anticipate buyer concerns and respond with data-backed answers that build trust while preserving leverage.

By translating complex legal, tax, and negotiation strategies into actionable steps, the guide ensures HVAC business owners can navigate the sale process with confidence, maximize their final payout, and walk away knowing they received the value their business truly deserves.

Be Sure to Read the Full Business Selling Guide Here.

About IRAEmpire.com

IRAEmpire.com is an independent platform dedicated to helping individuals build, protect, and transition wealth. Known for its clear, no-fluff educational resources, the site covers retirement planning, alternative assets, small business ownership, and succession strategies. IRAEmpire's mission is to make complex financial decisions simple, strategic, and profitable for its readers.

Media Contact:

Ryan Paulson

ryan@iraempire.com

SOURCE: IRAEmpire LLC

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/blockchain-and-cryptocurrency/how-to-sell-an-hvac-business-expert-guide-released-for-selling-an-hva-1060277
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Trane Technologies:

Circularity practices like proactive maintenance and energy efficient upgrades can lengthen equipment life, create business value for customers and help decarbonize operations.

As a global climate innovator, Trane Technologies defines circularity as finding new ways to use products, materials and resources. Our goal is to keep them in use for as long as possible and reduce waste. By integrating these practices into our portfolio, we help customers cut greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen their own sustainable business strategies - demonstrating that decarbonization pays off.

By maintaining equipment, prolonging its useful life and sharing resources to minimize upgrades and unnecessary replacements, we deliver measurable carbon reduction results and tackle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across our value chain.

Extending equipment lifecycles while reducing our carbon footprint

Trane's life-extension programs renew commercial HVAC equipment, extending both life and performance. Technicians change seals, gaskets and controls. They run tests, keep units updated and replace worn parts or rebuild motors as needed. The comprehensive renewal process ensures that equipment operates at like-new performance levels.

The global programs, encompassing approximately 1,000 restoration projects each year, keep critical machinery in use longer and out of the waste stream.

Field data shows the impact. Regular service can add up to ten years of useful life, delaying new equipment investments and avoiding the embodied carbon of building new units. And beyond the benefits of increased energy efficiency and extended lifespan, these programs also tackle environmental risks at the source, taking a proactive approach to preventing refrigerant leaks and other issues.

Digital connectivity also increases sustainability benefits. A successful artificial intelligence (AI) analytics pilot currently monitors over 2,000 connected units. By 2026, every new unit will include the option to integrate remote diagnostics, unlocking AI-enabled energy efficiency and extending the useful life of our products. By adopting predictive maintenance technology, our service teams can mitigate issues before they arise, eliminating the need for transportation to the site and optimizing productivity.

Core business offerings that are inherently circular

Another circular business offering comes from our Trane rental services, who leverage resource sharing to decrease both carbon footprint and costs for our customers. They buy back existing customer equipment to refurbish and repurpose into their rental fleet, eliminating the embedded carbon emissions required to build a new piece of equipment. Our global fleet of thousands of cold storage and HVAC equipment rentals gives customers temporary capacity without significant capital investments in permanent assets, turning each system into a shared circular resource.

The growing integration of battery-powered cold chain solutions deepens our investment in renewable energy solutions. Buy backs and refurbishment programs also extend the useful life of equipment-while targeted upgrades, like switching heat pumps for gas-powered units, accelerate the impact.

Accelerating the pace of decarbonization through circularity

Together, these circular service offerings illustrate why building a circular economy is an advantage for our business. Initiatives like these generate value for our company, decrease operating costs for our customers and create concrete progress toward industrial decarbonization.

Our efforts to maintain, prolong and share vital equipment and resources are also critical drivers for our 2030 Sustainability Commitments, including our work to reduce embodied carbon by 40% and deliver a gigaton of GHG emission reduction for our customers. By prioritizing energy efficiency and maintenance, Trane Technologies is accelerating the pace of decarbonization.?

Learn more about how embracing circularity advances both sustainability goals and business growth.

Explore careers that make an impact at Trane Technologies.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Trane Technologies on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Trane Technologies

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/trane-technologies

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Trane Technologies

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/consumer-and-retail-products/maintain-prolong-share-a-circular-blueprint-for-decarbonization-1060366
The world's largest annual award for humanitarian nonprofits is awarded to the UK-based landmine removal and advocacy organization - amidst rising levels of landmine use

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation today announced that the Mines Advisory Group - a humanitarian, development and peacebuilding organization focused on landmine removal and armed violence reduction in communities affected by conflict - has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize. Since 1989, the Mines Advisory Group has helped over 23 million people in more than 70 countries rebuild their lives after war and has played a leading role in the international effort to prevent the use of landmines.

The Mines Advisory Group was chosen through the same deliberative process that has defined the Prize for three decades. The Hilton Foundation reviews nomination submissions from nonprofits throughout the world, and an independent, international panel of distinguished jurors makes the final selection after a rigorous vetting process. The following individuals served on the 2025 Hilton Humanitarian Prize jury: The Right Honorable Helen Clark; Leymah Gbowee; Conrad N. Hilton III; Sister Joyce Meyer; Her Majesty Queen Noor; Kennedy Odede; Zainab Salbi; and Dr. Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de Leon.

"The selection of the Mines Advisory Group as this year's Hilton Humanitarian Prize recipient serves as a reminder that compassion and peace should still be at the top of our global agenda," saidPeter Laugharn, President and CEO of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. "Through its extraordinary efforts to help communities return to safety and prosperity after conflict, the Mines Advisory Group exemplifies the kind of humanitarian excellence our Prize has sought to celebrate and inspire over the last three decades."

Today, amidst rising levels of geopolitical conflict - and humanitarian needs - the need to uplift nonprofit organizations on the frontlines has never been greater. This year's Prize, therefore, honors the Mines Advisory Group for its work to address the lasting and devastating impacts that landmines, unexploded ordnance and armed violence have on human lives and post-conflict development. In 2023, more than 8 out of 10 landmine casualties were civilians, and more than a third of civilian casualties were children.

"For 35 years, MAG has stood resolute in its mission to respond to the urgent needs of people in communities ravaged by conflict and in places still grappling with conflict's legacy, long after the wars have ended," said Darren Cormack, Chief Executive of the Mines Advisory Group. "We're honored to receive the Hilton Humanitarian Prize in recognition of the tireless and courageous work of our global staff.."

The vast majority of the organization's 5,500 staff come from communities that have been directly affected by conflict. In 1997, the nonprofit was a co-laureate of the Nobel Peace Prize for its founding role in the International Campaign to Ban Landmines that led to the formation of the landmark Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC).

As the largest annual humanitarian award for nonprofits, the Prize shines a light on extraordinary organizations innovating, advocating and creating change to improve the lives of people experiencing disadvantage throughout the world. The Prize's unrestricted funding award will increase from $2.5 million to $3 million this year to mark the 30th anniversary.

About the Hilton Foundation

The Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize - Hilton Foundation

About the Mines Advisory Group

Home | MAG

Media Contacts:

flavia.d@hiltonfoundation.org

jon.brown@maginternational.org

mackenzie@evergreenstrategygroup.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/marking-the-30th-anniversary-of-the-hilton-humanitarian-prize-international-jury-selects-mines-advisory-group-as-the-2025-prize-recipient-302529048.html
What is the Market Size of Axial Flux Motor Market?

BANGALORE, India, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global market for Axial Flux Motor was valued at USD 272 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 16379 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 66.7% during the forecast period.

Get Free Sample: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-8K8112/Global_Axial_Flux_Motor_Market_Insights_Forecast?utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=pressrelease&utm_campaign=axial_flux_motor

What Are the Key Factors Driving the Growth of the Axial Flux Motor Market?

The axial flux motor market is witnessing robust growth due to rising demand for high-performance, compact, and energy-efficient electric motors .





is witnessing due to rising demand for . Axial flux motors are revolutionizing electric mobility, industrial equipment, and renewable energy systems with unmatched torque density and significant space savings .





with and significant . Leading manufacturers and startups are heavily investing in product innovation , leveraging advanced materials and modern production techniques to improve scalability and cost-efficiency .





are heavily investing in , leveraging and to improve . The push towards electrification, sustainability, and digital transformation is driving the adoption of axial flux motors in next-generation applications .





is driving the adoption of in . Strategic collaborations, increased R&D efforts, and supportive regulations are further boosting market expansion .





are further boosting . Axial flux motors are positioned as a transformative technology in the evolving electric motor landscape, enabling more efficient, compact, and sustainable solutions.

Source from Valuates Reports: https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-8K8112/global-axial-flux-motor?utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=pressrelease&utm_campaign=axial_flux_motor

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE AXIAL FLUX MOTOR MARKET:

The dual-rotor single-stator type is a major driver in the axial flux motor market due to its superior torque density and power-to-weight ratio. These motors feature a compact axial configuration with two rotors flanking a central stator, effectively doubling the torque output without significantly increasing the size. This design minimizes magnetic flux leakage and optimizes magnetic utilization, making it ideal for applications with space and efficiency constraints. Electric vehicles, drones, and industrial machinery benefit from this configuration due to its improved cooling, lighter construction, and high power delivery. As demand for compact and efficient electric propulsion systems grows, dual-rotor single-stator motors are increasingly preferred in both mobility and stationary applications, fueling market growth across diverse sectors.

Single-rotor dual-stator type axial flux motors are gaining momentum in the market due to their symmetrical magnetic flux distribution and structural simplicity. This configuration places a rotor between two stators, offering high power output and improved thermal dissipation. The dual stators provide magnetic balance, enhancing efficiency and torque consistency, especially under varying load conditions. This type is widely adopted in e-mobility, industrial drives, and robotics where reliability and compactness are key. Manufacturers are focusing on this design to optimize material usage and reduce electromagnetic losses. The reduced axial length and enhanced performance make it suitable for next-generation EV drivetrains and energy-efficient industrial motors, driving demand for this configuration in advanced electromechanical systems globally.

The automotive sector is a primary catalyst for the axial flux motor market, driven by the electrification of mobility and the demand for lighter, more efficient propulsion systems. Axial flux motors offer high torque density, compact size, and reduced weight, making them ideal for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid systems, and even e-bikes. Their flat design allows for flexible integration into vehicle architectures, such as in-wheel motors or space-constrained drivetrain layouts. Major EV manufacturers are adopting axial flux technology to improve vehicle range and performance. Additionally, growing regulatory pressure to cut emissions and increase fuel efficiency accelerates the shift toward electric powertrains. As global EV sales continue to rise, the adoption of axial flux motors is expanding rapidly.

High torque density is a crucial factor driving demand for axial flux motors, especially in sectors requiring powerful yet compact systems. Unlike radial flux motors, axial flux designs allow more magnetic material to interact per unit volume, resulting in greater torque output in a smaller footprint. This characteristic is valuable in electric vehicles, drones, and marine propulsion where space optimization is essential. Manufacturers are focused on leveraging this advantage to develop high-efficiency systems with minimal energy loss and optimal torque delivery. As applications evolve to prioritize performance and compactness, axial flux motors stand out for their ability to meet these requirements, thereby increasing their adoption across emerging and established industries.

The global shift toward e-mobility, including electric two-wheelers, e-scooters, delivery drones, and electric aircraft, is propelling the axial flux motor market forward. These solutions demand lightweight, energy-efficient, and high-torque motors to maximize battery life and extend range. Axial flux motors meet these needs with their flat design, high torque-to-weight ratio, and low electromagnetic interference. Startups and OEMs in the mobility space are investing in axial flux technology to differentiate their products and meet strict environmental regulations. With urban transportation evolving rapidly, the need for compact motors that deliver strong propulsion performance continues to grow, reinforcing axial flux motors as a preferred choice in the mobility landscape.

Energy efficiency remains a key motivator for the adoption of axial flux motors across various sectors. These motors offer higher efficiency than traditional radial flux designs due to reduced winding resistance, shorter magnetic paths, and superior thermal management. As industries and governments aim to lower energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions, the efficiency of electric motors becomes a priority. Axial flux motors contribute to these goals by enabling lighter systems with lower energy demands. Their ability to operate at higher efficiency over a wide range of speeds makes them ideal for applications in industrial automation, HVAC systems, and renewable energy. This energy-saving advantage drives market demand globally.

Industrial automation is creating significant opportunities for the axial flux motor market. These motors are being integrated into robotic arms, conveyor systems, CNC machinery, and other equipment that require compact, precise, and high-torque actuation. Axial flux motors enable faster response times, smoother motion control, and more efficient energy use compared to traditional motors. Their slim profile allows for flexible installation, which is especially valuable in space-constrained industrial environments. As industries invest in smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies, the need for high-performance, intelligent motor systems rises. Axial flux motors fulfill these evolving demands, positioning themselves as a key component in the future of digital and automated industrial workflows.

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What are the major product types in the Axial Flux Motor Market?

Dual-rotor Single-stator Type

Single-rotor Dual-stator Type

What are the main applications of Axial Flux Motor Market ?

Electric Buses

Electric Trucks

Electric Supercars

Other

Who are the key players in the Axial Flux Motor Market ?

YASA Limited

Magnax

EMRAX

Phi-Power

PanGood

Omni Powertrain Technologies

Naxatra Labs

Turntide Technologies

EFLOW

Beyond Motors

Evolito

Which region dominates the Axial Flux Motor Market?

Europe leads the axial flux motor market, driven by high electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy initiatives, and industrial automation.





Key European countries, including Germany, France, and the UK, are investing heavily in high-efficiency motor technologies.





North America is a close contender, with the U.S. focusing on e-mobility, aerospace electrification, and R&D in advanced manufacturing.





The Asia-Pacific region-notably China, Japan, and South Korea-is experiencing rapid market growth due to expanding EV production, smart manufacturing, and government-backed green energy programs.





Latin America and the Middle East are emerging regions adopting axial flux motors for energy and industrial applications.





Regional market dynamics are shaped by technology maturity, regulatory support, and manufacturing capabilities, influencing adoption and growth trends.

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What are some related markets to the Magsafe Accessories Market?

In 2024, the global market size of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) was estimated to be worth USD 15580 Million and is forecast to reach approximately USD 26010 Million by 2031 with a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period 2025-2031.





was estimated to be worth USD 15580 Million and is forecast to reach approximately USD 26010 Million by 2031 with a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period 2025-2031. High Power Density Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Market





Low Voltage Synchronous Permanent Magnet Motor Market





The global market for Axial Flux Motor for Robots was valued at USD 190 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 325 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.0% during the forecast period.





was valued at USD 190 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 325 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.0% during the forecast period. The global market for Compact Axial Flow Fan was valued at USD 465 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 612 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period.





was valued at USD 465 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 612 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period. The global market for Axial Piston Pump was valued at USD 3142 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 4009 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period.





was valued at USD 3142 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 4009 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period. The global market for Electronically Commutated (EC) Axial Cooling Fans was valued at USD 1254 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 1937 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period.





was valued at USD 1254 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 1937 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The global Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Power market was valued at USD 175 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 245.2 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 2024-2030.





was valued at USD 175 Million in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 245.2 Million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 2024-2030. Permanent Magnet Drive Market





Synchronous Motors Market





The global Permanent Magnet Synchronous Traction Machine market is projected to reach USD 2833.7 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 1815 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 6.5% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / In partnership with Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative, IWBI and over a dozen supporting organizations-including AAFA, AIHA, ASHRAE, BOMA, Global Green, Green Building Initiative, Green Seal, ICC, IFMA, NEMA, NIBS and USGBC-spotlight policy as a catalyst for scaling healthy buildings and creating healthier communities

Event features nearly 30 confirmed speakers-from a former U.S. Surgeon General, a distinguished member of Congress, an award-winning journalist, to top leaders from ASHRAE, GRESB, USGBC, JLL, UL Solutions, Brown University, Corvias, Aeroseal, Johns Hopkins University, Savills

and Trane Technologies

The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), in partnership with Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative, is proud to host its second annual Healthy Building Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., on September 29. This landmark, full-day event is dedicated to exploring the critical role of policy at all levels of government in transforming workplaces, buildings and cities to improve health, build resilience and foster thriving communities.

"Building on our momentum from last year's inaugural event, this year's Healthy Building Policy Summit dives deeper into critical areas - from indoor air quality to innovation and private sector leadership - showing how we are doubling down on the policies and partnerships that can turn every building into a force for well-being for everyone, everywhere," said IWBI President and CEO Rachel Hodgdon.

By convening a dynamic cross-section of policymakers, public health experts, private sector innovators, and government leaders, the Summit aims to accelerate bold ideas and actionable policies that advance health through the built environment. "We're excited to host this policy summit at a moment when decisions on human health are being treated as a core performance metric for public and private places across the built environment," said Uwe S. Brandes, Professor and Director of the Georgetown Global Cities Initiative, which is hosting the event at the McCourt School of Public Policy on its Capitol Campus. "We'll be exploring how policy, planning, and investment decisions at all jurisdictional levels enhance and protect human health in our buildings and cities."

The Summit will focus on critical topics and timely issues impacting the built environment including indoor air quality, the evidence-based return on investment (ROI) of healthy buildings, as well as the influence of legislation on market transformation. Other key topics include access to healthy environments, the leadership role of cities and states, and the contribution of professional organizations and technical standards in advancing healthy building initiatives.

An impressive lineup of nearly 30 speakers are confirmed, including:

Dr. Richard Carmona, M.D., MPH, FACS. 17th Surgeon General of the United States

Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO, IWBI

Congressman Paul D. Tonko. D-NY 20th District, U.S. House of Representatives

Christopher King, Dean, School of Health, Georgetown University

Holly Paeper, President of Commercial HVAC Americas, Trane Technologies

William McQuade, President, ASHRAE

Erin Billups, National Health Reporter, Spectrum News

Chris Pyke, Chief Innovation Officer, GRESB

Tanya Eagle, Director of Sustainable Buildings, JLL

Georgia Lagoudas, Ph.D., Senior Fellow, Brown University School of Public Health

Kazukiyo (Kazu) Kumagai, Chief of the Air Quality Section, California Department of Public Health

Erika Heet, Editor-In-Chief, BuildingGreen

Elizabeth Beardsley, Senior Policy Counsel, U.S. Green Building Council

Uwe Brandes, Professor, Director of the Urban & Regional Planning Program and Director of the Georgetown Global Cities Initiative, Georgetown University

Seydina Fall, Senior Lecturer, Institute for Planetary Health, Johns Hopkins University

Wendy Feldman Block, Executive Managing Director, Savills, Inc.

Denise Hauck, President, Department of Defense (DOD) Division, Corvias

Sean McCrady, Vice President, Software and Advisory, UL Solutions

Dr. Serene Almomen, CEO, Co-Founder, Attune

Rachel Kohli, Director of Campus Planning, Georgetown University

Trisha Miller, Vice President, Policy and Market Development, Aeroseal

Whitney Austin Gray, SVP, Research, IWBI

Susan Chung, Associate Director, Enterprise Research, Vice President, HKS

Jonathan Gritz, SVP, Energy Solutions, WellStat

Jason Hartke, EVP, External Affairs and Global Advocacy, IWBI

This year's Summit is supported by leading companies committed to advancing health in buildings. Principal sponsors include Trane Technologies, Aeroseal, UL Solutions and Attune, whose leadership and commitment help make the event possible. The event is also supported by Associate sponsors SafeTraces and Vogel Group, with Daikin serving as host for the Summit's evening reception. Lutron and WellStat are joining as WELL Summit Series Gold sponsors.

"We now know unequivocally that our buildings are foundational to our health, shaping how we live, work and connect. By positioning them to actively promote well-being, we can unlock a healthier future for everyone," said Dr. Richard Carmona, 17th Surgeon General of the United States. "The Healthy Building Policy Summit is a signature gathering where we can come together to explore the accelerants that will take these strategies to scale in communities across the country."

"We have a chance to get ahead - to shape the future of our workplaces, buildings and communities through smart policy, effective programs and more strategic use of the vast public funds being directed into our buildings over the next decade," said Jason Hartke, Executive Vice President, External Affairs and Global Advocacy, IWBI. "The Healthy Building Policy Summit is the only national gathering dedicated to charting that future and shaping policies and priorities that will deliver on our ambitious healthy building agenda. I'm honored to be partnering with Georgetown and an extraordinary coalition of supporting organizations, industry leaders and media partners, showing that the strongest leadership comes through partnership."

"Research is the bridge between what we know works for health and how we put it into practice," said Whitney Austin Gray, Senior Vice President, Research, IWBI. "We know that investing in health in the built environment delivers returns far beyond well-being, from stronger business performance to greater community resilience. The Policy Summit is a unique opportunity to showcase the evidence that makes the business case, equipping policymakers to shape the future of healthy building policy."

The event also includes several Supporting Organizations, including American Industrial Hygiene Association, ASHRAE, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, BOMA International, Global Green, Green Seal, International Codes Council, International Facilities Management Association, ISSA - Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, National Electrical Manufacturers Association, National Institute of Building Sciences, and U.S. Green Building Council. In addition, the Summit's Media Partners include BuildingGreen, FacilitiesNet and Buildings Magazine.

What Our Supporters are Saying

"Advancing health in buildings is becoming a clear priority for organizations around the world," said Scott Tew, Vice President, Sustainability and Managing Director, Center for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability, Trane Technologies. "We're proud to support the Healthy Building Policy Summit because it is moving this critical conversation forward and reshaping how we coalesce around policy solutions to ramp up building-scale interventions that improve health and well-being, boost productivity and strengthen our businesses."

"Collectively, we have the technologies and scientific knowledge-many of them readily available and capable of transforming workplaces and organizations so they can better invest in their people," said Sean McCrady, Vice President, Software and Advisory, UL Solutions. "The Healthy Building Policy Summit provides an opportunity to break down barriers and build a future where healthy indoor spaces are the norm."

"The Healthy Building Policy Summit gives us the opportunity to deliver high-performance building solutions in collaboration with stakeholders across the country," said Trisha Miller, Vice President, Policy and Market Development, Aeroseal. "Fortunately, we're seeing an important convergence where health, energy efficiency and building resilience are coming together, so we can support these shared priorities at once."

For more information and to register for the event, visit IWBI's Summit registration page.

WELL's accelerating global reach reflects the growing momentum for policies that prioritize healthier spaces worldwide. Last month, global growth and adoption of the WELL Building Standard (WELL) surged to more than 6 billion square feet (557.4 million square meters) of real estate, demonstrating incredible market adoption spanning nearly 100,000 locations across 138 countries that are realizing the positive impacts of people-first places.

About the International WELL Building Institute

The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is a public benefit corporation and the global authority for transforming health and well-being in buildings, organizations and communities. In pursuit of its public-health mission, IWBI mobilizes its community through the development and administration of the WELL Building Standard (WELL), WELL for residential, WELL Community Standard, its WELL ratings and management of the WELL AP credential. IWBI also translates research into practice, develops educational resources and advocates for policies that promote people-first places for everyone, everywhere. More information on WELL can be found here.

International WELL Building Institute, IWBI, the WELL Building Standard, WELL v2, WELL Certified, WELL AP, WELL EP, WELL Score, The WELL Conference, We Are WELL, the WELL Community Standard, WELL Health-Safety Rated, WELL Performance Rated, WELL Equity Rated, WELL Equity, WELL Coworking Rated, WELL Residence, Works with WELL, WELL and others, and their related logos are trademarks or certification marks of International WELL Building Institute pbc in the United States and other countries.

About Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative

The Georgetown Global Cities Initiative reaches across the entire University community to

explore cross-cutting themes related to urbanization. Through this dialogue, Georgetown aims to align more than 60 faculty scholars and practitioners engaged in urban research who are not otherwise linked through their traditional academic disciplines. The Initiative matches Georgetown's international research networks with our civic role as a leading local anchor institution in Washington, DC. Research themes include social equity, rapid urbanization, city diplomacy; urban governance frameworks; social entrepreneurship; public health; technology, data and ethics; and changing environmental resources. We invite you to join us in dialogue as we engage one of the most important global trends in the 21st Century.

Media Contacts:

media@wellcertified.com

globalcities@georgetown.edu

View original content here.



View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: International WELL Building Institute (IWBI)

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-well-building-institute

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: International WELL Building Institute (IWBI)

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/iwbi%e2%80%99s-national-policy-summit-charts-the-future-of-healthy-build-1060440
BATON ROUGE, LA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / DLC, in partnership with DRA Advisors, has acquired Towne Center at Cedar Lodge, a market-dominant, Whole Foods-anchored open-air shopping center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The 316,031-square-foot property is 93 percent leased and anchored by a top-performing Whole Foods Market-the No. 2 Whole Foods in the state - alongside national retailers including Barnes & Noble, Nike, Gap, and Ulta Beauty.

Bell Tower Fort Myers, Florida

Bell Tower Fort Myers, Florida

Towne Center at Cedar Lodge recorded over 3.3 million total visits last year, underscoring its status as the best grocery-anchored center in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Strategically located at the high-traffic corner of Jefferson Highway (27,700 VPD) and Corporate Boulevard (22,500 VPD) with access to I-10, I-12, and Airline Highway, the property benefits from strong surrounding demographics and close proximity to Louisiana State University (LSU), home to more than 40,000 students. Towne Center at Cedar Lodge is in the top 10 percent of shopping centers nationwide and in the top 6 percent of shopping centers statewide

"Towne Center at Cedar Lodge is the type of retail asset we target-dominant positioning, high-performing national anchors, and meaningful value-add opportunities," said Adam Ifshin, Founder and CEO of DLC. "Our platform's full range of capabilities, from leasing and marketing to construction and redevelopment, positions us to build on its strong foundation and elevate its performance for years to come."

Immediate upside potential includes lease-up of existing vacancies, mark-to-market renewals, credit enhancement opportunities, and potential backfills. Additionally, a planned 286-unit multifamily development adjacent to the center is expected to further increase foot traffic and long-term value.

"We are excited to expand our relationship with DLC through this strategic acquisition and look forward to working together to unlock the full potential of this asset," said Brett Gottlieb, Senior Managing Director at DRA Advisors. "The property's strong in-place cash flow, combined with meaningful long-term upside, makes it a compelling fit for our investment strategy and underscores our continued conviction in partnering with best-in-class operators like DLC."

"Our team excels at positioning assets for growth," said Chris Ressa, Chief Operating Officer of DLC. "At Towne Center at Cedar Lodge, we have a strong vision for unlocking value through active leasing, mark-to-market opportunities, and creative solutions for repositioning vacancy."

Since December 2023, DLC has closed 11 deals with its co-General Partner, Temerity Strategic Partners, which has committed growth capital to help DLC expand its assets by $2 billion by 2026.

###

About DLC

DLC is a preeminent owner and operator of open-air shopping centers across the United States, with a proven track record of delivering value through innovative asset management strategies and strategic acquisitions. For more information, visit www.dlcmgmt.com.

About DRA Advisors

DRA Advisors LLC is a New York-based registered investment advisor with approximately 100 employees that specializes in real estate investment management services for institutional and private investors including pension funds, university endowments, sovereign wealth funds, foundations, and insurance companies. Since DRA's inception in 1986, the firm has opened additional offices in Miami and San Francisco and has acquired over $41 billion of real estate. Its acquisitions include 100 million square feet of industrial, 86,500 multifamily units, 89 million square feet of retail, and 65 million square feet of office. As of December 31, 2024, DRA had $11.1 billion in gross assets under management. http://draadvisors.com

SOURCE: DLC

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/real-estate/dlc-secures-baton-rouge-trophy-asset-with-acquisition-of-towne-center-at-cedar-lodge-1059717
With a science-driven yet gentle approach, Dr. Leo's expansion into two dynamic beauty markets is turning into a remarkable global success story.

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / When Dr. Leo first appeared on the shelves of Southeast Asian beauty stores and the screens of Latin American online shoppers, few could have predicted the rapid success the brand would achieve. Known in the United States for its dermatologist-developed, clinically tested skin care, Dr. Leo has now become a name that beauty lovers thousands of miles away are talking about - and trusting.

At the heart of Dr. Leo's appeal is a simple promise: effective care that's kind to the skin. Each formula is backed by medical research, featuring proven ingredients like Salicylic Acid for clearer skin, Niacinamide for balance, and VC-377 for brightening. Every product is fragrance-free, non-irritating, and designed for all skin types - especially those prone to sensitivity.

"We don't just launch products; we listen to skin concerns in every market we enter," says a spokesperson for Dr. Leo. "In Southeast Asia, we focused on lightweight, humidity-friendly textures. In Latin America, we addressed concerns like post-acne marks and uneven tone. The response has been overwhelming."

And "overwhelming" is no exaggeration. In Southeast Asia, the brand's entry onto major e-commerce platforms saw several products shoot to the top of beauty best-seller lists within weeks. In countries like Thailand and the Philippines, reviews highlight how quickly the products calm breakouts without causing dryness - a common struggle in the region's hot, humid climate.

In Latin America, the story is just as striking. Markets such as Mexico and Colombia have embraced Dr. Leo's science-meets-gentleness approach, with customers praising visible results on stubborn skin concerns. The brand's Spanish-language social media channels are now filled with before-and-after photos and testimonials from delighted users.

Behind the numbers and the five-star reviews is a growing community. "We're seeing customers recommend us to friends, families, and even dermatologists in their own countries," the spokesperson notes. "That kind of trust is something you can't buy - it has to be earned, one result at a time."

With momentum building, Dr. Leo is already planning the next steps: more region-specific products, deeper partnerships with local retailers, and continued investment in clinical research. "Our vision is simple," the brand says. "Every skin, in every climate, deserves the best possible care."

About Dr. Leo:

Founded by a team of leading US dermatologists and researchers, Dr. Leo creates clinically proven, safe, and effective skin care designed for all skin types. The brand's portfolio includes targeted solutions for acne, brightening, repair, and deep cleansing, each tested for sensitive skin and recommended by medical professionals. Dr. Leo is available worldwide via drleo.com and select retail and e-commerce partners.

Contact:

Dr. Leo Skin Care

Email: team@drleo.com

Website: drleo.com

SOURCE: Dr.Leo

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/consumer-and-retail-products/from-the-us-to-the-world-how-dr.-leos-dermatologist-skin-care-is-winni-1060401
Visit Highlights Mississippi's Role in Defense Innovation and Economic Growth

TUPELO, MS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) welcomed Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves to its Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Tupelo, Miss on Tuesday, August 12, where he toured the facility and met with company leaders to discuss Mississippi's expanding role in national defense and advanced manufacturing.

Governor Tate Reeves tours GA's Tupelo, MS site with Scott Forney, President of GA-EMS, and Pete Rin



Reeves emphasized the importance of high-tech job creation and public-private partnerships in driving economic growth. GA-EMS briefed him on its manufacturing capabilities and weapons systems that complement the Golden Dome for America initiative including hypersonics, directed energy, space-based missile tracking and warning payloads and Bullseye, the company's long range precision-guided missile that will be produced in Mississippi. The Governor was also briefed on GA-EMS' investments and initiatives to support the expansion of the maritime and submarine industrial bases and its nuclear power solutions for future Mississippi data centers.

"General Atomics is helping build the future of American defense right here in Mississippi," Reeves said. "Their work reflects the strength of our workforce and the success of our pro-growth policies. Mississippi is breaking economic development records and bringing in billions in new private sector investment - and it's thanks to great companies like General Atomics."

GA-EMS operates more than 750,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Tupelo and maintains additional facilities in Iuka, Miss., with strategic access to world ports via the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway to support future shipbuilding and logistics expansion.

"This facility represents our long-term commitment to building resilient, world-class manufacturing capability in Mississippi," said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. "We're investing in infrastructure and workforce development to deliver advanced technologies at scale for critical national defense priorities and to facilitate military readiness."

About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space. From electromagnetic, power generation and energy storage systems and space systems and satellites, to hypersonic, missile defense, and laser weapon systems, GA-EMS offers an expanding portfolio of capabilities for defense, government, and national security customers. GA-EMS also provides commercial products and services targeting hazardous waste remediation, oil and gas, and nuclear energy industries.

For further information, visit www.ga.com/ems

Media Contact

EMS-MediaRelations@ga.com

SOURCE: General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/aerospace-and-defense/governor-reeves-tours-general-atomics-electromagnetic-systems-manufacturing-c-1060522
Fairfax County, Virginia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Last week, AT&T marked a significant milestone with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new regional hub in the Chantilly-area of Fairfax County. The five-story, 111,000-square-foot office building located at 4807 Stonecroft Boulevard in Chantilly at the Westfields International Center at Dulles now serves as home to more than 500 AT&T team members and reflects the company's continued investment in innovation, collaboration, and the future of work.

From l-r: Fairfax County Fire Chief John Butler, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman Kathy Smith, Sully District, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey McKay, AT&T Senior Vice President for Corporate Real Estate & Security Michael Ford, AT&T President for Public Sector & FirstNet Wes Anderson, , Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) President and CEO Victor Hoskins, FCEDA Senior Vice President Anna Nissinen, FCEDA Vice President of Business Investment David Kelley, FCEDA Director of National Business Investment John Blair, and AT & T Regional Director for External & Legislative Affairs Garrett McGuire

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9433/262355_33648381b4698b1c_001full.jpg

"Thank you to our Fairfax County leaders and first responders. From streamlined permitting to being a trusted collaborator in testing new technologies, Fairfax has been a model partner," said AT&T's President of Public Sector Wes Anderson. "Our more than 500 AT&T colleagues working here deserve this modernized space because modernization is core to what we do. Drawing on nearly 150 years of experience, we modernize customer networks for more efficient, secure, and reliable communication. I look forward to what we can achieve together as we start this new chapter in Chantilly, Virginia."

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay, Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Chief John S. Butler, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority President and CEO Victor Hoskins and other dignitaries joined AT&T leadership to celebrate the grand opening and welcome the company to its new home.

"Today is a celebration of growth, vision, and partnership," said Chairman McKay. "Fairfax County is proud to support AT&T's continued evolution and success, and we are grateful for the longstanding relationship we've built together."

AT&T has deep roots in Virginia, including historic innovation such as installing the first dial telephone in the Bell System right here in the Commonwealth. The company's presence in Fairfax County is equally significant, particularly through its partnership with FirstNet, which ensures reliable, next-generation communications for first responders and public safety agencies.

"Fairfax County was among the first local governments in the nation to adopt FirstNet, and we continue to collaborate with AT&T to test new technologies that serve our residents and customers alike," said McKay.

Supervisor Kathy Smith emphasized the impact of AT&T's move on the local community and economy.

"AT&T's decision to consolidate operations in Chantilly is a major step forward. This move deepens your presence in one of the most dynamic business corridors in the country," Smith said. "Your investment speaks volumes about Fairfax County's value as a destination for business, innovation, and community impact."

The company's relocation into this state-of-the-art facility sends a strong message about the strength of Fairfax County as a global business destination. In addition to its operational footprint, AT&T has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to local engagement, contributing over $250,000 to area nonprofits in the past five years and serving as title sponsor for Volunteer Fairfax's signature day of service, VolunteerFest.

AT&T helps more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.

###

About Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA)

FCEDA promotes Fairfax County as one of the world's top locations for business and talent, and offers site location and business development assistance, and connections with county and state government agencies, to help companies locate and expand in Fairfax County. FCEDA is headquartered in Tysons, Fairfax County's largest business district, and maintains offices in key global business centers: Bangalore/Mumbai, Berlin, London, Los Angeles and Seoul. For more information about FCEDA, visit www.fairfaxcountyeda.org, or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and YouTube.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262355

SOURCE: Fairfax County Economic Development Authority
Flatiron's 2025 WCLC research showcases the power of multimodal real-world oncology data and innovative AI-data extraction methodologies to generate actionable evidence for people with lung cancer

Flatiron Health today announced eight abstracts leveraging its high-quality multimodal data have been accepted for poster presentation and e-Poster presentation at the IASLC 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer hosted by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer in Barcelona, Spain.

"AI is a transformative force enabling scale, speed, and novel insights that were previously impossible. By harnessing advanced AI across our global network of more than five million people with cancer, we're setting a new standard for real-world data at scale," said Nathan Hubbard, Chief Business Officer, Flatiron Health. "Our research at this year's World Conference on Lung Cancer exemplifies how high-quality, multimodal real-world data combined with responsible AI practices can illuminate treatment patterns, measure effectiveness, and reveal where innovation is most urgently needed."

A highlight of Flatiron's presence at WCLC 2025 is the first published research leveraging the Flatiron Health-Caris Life Sciences Clinical-Molecular Database (CMDB), the largest and most robust multimodal dataset of its kind, to identify a novel gene signature that predicts risk of liver metastasis in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By integrating high-quality clinical data with comprehensive molecular profiling, the research addresses a critical unmet need-providing clinicians with a new tool to identify high-risk patients and potentially enable more personalized surveillance and treatment strategies.

Additional highlights include:

a poster highlighting ongoing gaps in biomarker testing after assessing over 13,000 patients with NSCLC in the US and UK

a poster providing new insights into how NSCLC is managed in the UK, including details on the most commonly used treatments, patterns in biomarker testing, and overall survival outcomes

Schedule a meeting with Flatiron Health at WCLC 2025 and follow Flatiron Health on X and LinkedIn for more updates from WCLC25.

Abstracts and Poster Presentations

A Novel Predictive Gene Signature for Liver Metastasis (LM) in NSCLC Using a Comprehensive Linked Clinical-Molecular Database

Partner: Caris Life Sciences

Poster

Session: P2.06 Pathology and Biomarkers

Presentation Number: P2.06.45

Location: Exhibit Hall

Session Start/End: Monday, September 8, 10:30AM 12PM

Real-world Biomarker Testing and Treatment Initiation in Patients with Resected Early-stage NSCLC (eNSCLC) in the US and UK

Poster

Session: P1.07 Early-Stage Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Presentation Number: P1.07.05

Location: Exhibit Hall

Session Start/End: September 7, 10:30AM 12PM

Real-World Outcomes of Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation in Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with First-Line Immunotherapy and Platinum-Etoposide

Poster

Session: P3.13 Small Cell Lung Cancer and Neuroendocrine Tumors

Presentation Number: P3.13.10

Location: Exhibit Hall

Session Start/End: September 9, 10 11:30AM

Real-World Survival Outcomes in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Insights from UK EHR-Derived Data

E-Poster

Session: EP.17 Global Health, Health Services, and Health Economics

Presentation Number: EP.17.34

Disease Burden and rwPFS as a Surrogate Endpoint for rwOS in NTRK+ NSCLC and Other Advanced/Metastatic Solid Tumors

Partners: Bristol-Myers Squibb, University of Colorado Cancer Center

E-poster

Session: EP.12 Metastatic Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Targeted Therapy

Presentation Number: EP.12.23

Real-World Treatment Patterns in ES-SCLC Highlight Continued Unmet Medical Need in the Era of New Therapies: ESSENCE Study

Partners: Montefiore Medical Center, GSK, Rush University

E-poster

Session: EP.13 Small Cell Lung Cancer and Neuroendocrine Tumors

Presentation Number: EP.13.25

Evolving Treatment Patterns in Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in the United States

Partners: Lilly

E-poster

Session: EP.17 Global Health, Health Services, and Health Economics

Presentation Number: EP.17.33

Real-World Treatment Patterns and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Metastatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of the Lung (NEN-L)

Partners: Merck Co

E-poster

Session: EP.13 Small Cell Lung Cancer and Neuroendocrine Tumors

Presentation Number: EP.13.44

About Flatiron

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.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813223582/en/

Contacts:

Nina Toor

press@flatiron.com
COVENTRY, England and SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cadent, the UK's largest gas distribution network and Picarro Inc., a global leader in methane emission management and reduction solutions, today announced that Picarro's solutions were selected for deployment throughout Cadent's network as part of an expansion of the partnership between the two companies. The combination of Picarro's vehicle-mounted high sensitivity methane and ethane detectors, advanced analytics, and robust software will enable Cadent to evolve into proactive operations and data-driven management to enhance safety and asset management, reduce emissions, and increase operational efficiency.

"This new milestone in our journey to do the very best for our customers is a demonstration of our steadfast commitment and leadership in transforming our industry to meet the challenges of reducing emissions and to ensure safety and affordability for all our customers," said Howard Forster, Chief Operating Officer of Cadent.

"The opportunity to expand our partnership with Cadent, a leader of the natural gas industry in Europe, has been invaluable for Picarro and we look forward to helping them reach their ambitious goals. This success is a testimony to our collaborative business approach that aims to transform our customers' practices from leak detection towards network intelligence," said Alex Balkanski, Chief Executive Officer of Picarro.

From Leak Detection to Network Intelligence

Picarro's integrated solution combines advanced hardware, cutting-edge analytics, and robust software to deliver unparalleled insights into methane emissions and operational efficiency. Operators leverage Advanced Mobile Leak Detection (AMLD) technology to create a data-driven, GIS-centric representation of a gas network and its emissions. They tap into this holistic and consolidated view to strategically plan maintenance activities, deploy resources and maximize asset value. By embracing Network Intelligence, operators can enhance safety, meet regulatory demands, and lead the way in environmental stewardship.

About Cadent

Cadent is the UK's largest gas distribution network with a 200-year legacy. We are in a unique position to build on strong foundations whilst encouraging the curiosity to think differently and the courage to embrace change. Day to day we continue to operate, maintain and innovate the UK's largest gas network, transporting gas safely and protecting people in an emergency. Our skilled engineers and specialists remain committed to the communities we serve, working day and night to ensure gas reaches 11 million homes from Cumbria to North London and the Welsh Borders to East Anglia, to keep your energy flowing.

About Picarro

Picarro is a global leader in leak management and emissions reduction, providing operators with tools to revolutionize risk management. The enterprise solution helps lower emissions, optimize asset management, and reduce costs within a unified framework. With Picarro technology and analytics, operators can proactively manage leaks, prioritize critical issues, and assess gas system health and performance continuously. For more information, visit www.picarro.com/gas.

Media Contact:

Monica Marmie

Senior Marketing Manager

Picarro

mmarmie@picarro.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1091786/Picarro_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/picarro-network-intelligence-selected-by-cadent-to-reduce-methane-emissions-and-enhance-safety-and-operational-efficiency-302528475.html
LAS VEGAS, NM / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / McCormick Systems, a trusted provider of construction electrical estimating software and part of the Foundation Software product portfolio, will be exhibiting at BICSI Beyond 2025, the premier conference for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) professionals.

As a returning exhibitor and longtime partner of BICSI, McCormick Systems will showcase their comprehensive low-voltage bidding solutions at this year's event. The conference will be held August 17th-20th at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. Attendees can find McCormick at booth #524.

"We're excited to return to BICSI Beyond this year," said Paul Wheaton, President at McCormick Systems. "This event brings together the contractors and professionals who are building the backbone of our connected world. We look forward to demonstrating how our software can help low-voltage and electrical contractors deliver accurate estimates and successful projects, whether they're working on electrical installations or complex fiber optic networks."

McCormick has been a leader in the electrical estimating space for over 40 years, offering tools that greatly accelerate and simplify the bidding process, including:

Auto Home Run and auto-count to easily measure unlimited endpoints

Real-time pricing that keeps bids competitive and profitable

Design Estimating Pro : McCormick's built-in digital takeoff tool that enables design-build functionality in one program

Built-in change order tracking with unlimited change order management

McCormick's estimating software scales to handle projects of all sizes, from small commercial jobs to large-scale data center installations, supporting the contractors who keep critical infrastructure operational.

For more information about McCormick Systems and their participation in BICSI Beyond 2025, visit mccormicksys.com or stop by booth #524 during the event.

SOURCE: McCormick Systems

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/mccormick-systems-to-showcase-at-bicsi-beyond-2025-1059813
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Arras Minerals Corp. (TSXV:ARK)(OTCQB:ARRKF) ("Arras" or "Arras Minerals" or "the Company") is pleased to report results of drillholes EL25012 and EL25013 from the 2025 drill program currently underway on the Elemes Project in Northeast Kazakhstan. The program aims to test widespread targets along the 8.8 kilometre Berezski Trend and the 14 kilometre Aimandai Trend.

Highlights include:

EL25012: 578m of mineralization grading 0.41 % copper-equivalent ("CuEq") (0.14% Cu and 0.21 g/t Au), starting at 3m depth; including: 440m grading 0.49% CuEq (0.16% Cu and 0.25 g/t Au) starting at 137m depth 114m grading 0.53% CuEq (0.22% Cu and 0.20 g/t Au) starting at 147m depth 252m grading 0.52% CuEq (0.15% Cu, and 0.29 g/t Au) starting at 325m depth



Tim Barry, CEO of Arras Minerals, stated, "Arras has three drill rigs currently turning across our licence package in Northeast Kazakhstan. Two of the drill rigs are working on the Elemes Project and the third is following up targets identified on the Arras-Teck Exploration Alliance properties. The initial pass of the Phase 2 drill campaign currently underway on the Elemes Project aims to build on the success of our 2024 drill campaign and continue to target a wide variety of areas along the 8.8 kilometre Berezski Trend and the 14 kilometre Aimandai Trend. Hole EL25012 represents an excellent start to the Phase 2 program intersecting the thickest interval of gold-copper mineralization encountered to date at Berezski Central, highlighting the scale and depth potential of the system. We now plan to focus one rig at Berezski Central to commence a systematic drilling program with an aim to further enhance understanding of structural controls and build scale at this target."

He went on to add, "Hole EL25013 is also very encouraging. While lower grade, it intersected nearly 300 meters of porphyry-style mineralization, 1.7 kilometres north of EL25012, demonstrating widespread thick pervasive mineralization along the Berezski Anomaly. Furthermore, Hole EL25013 is the first drill hole to test the 5 kilometre gap between Berezski Central target and Berezski North target - which drilling, announced in February of this year, intersected 547 meters of 0.70% CuEq starting from 14 metres."

Arras 2025 Drill Program: Since late June, Arras has had two diamond drill rigs operating on the Elemes Project targeting the Berezski Trend. The initial pass on the 20,000 metre Phase 2 drill program has the goal of building on the 2024 drill program through continuing to test a broad suite of known anomalies and new targets across the 8.8 kilometre Berezski Trend. Seven holes have now been completed with the remainder of the assays pending. A Magnetotellurics ("MT") and Gravity geophysical survey is underway across portions of the Berezski and Aimandai Trends. This survey is expected to continue into September-October and once finished will be used to further refine drill targets in both areas.

Hole EL25012: Targets the extensive copper-molybdenum soil anomaly first tested with holes EL24001 & EL24002 in 2024. Both holes drilled in 2024 were drilled towards the west, whilst Hole EL24012 drills towards the east with the view of better constraining mineralization and the structures in the area. EL25012 was drilled to a final depth of 724.3m, intersecting andesite and andesite breccias with pervasive argillic alteration overprinting earlier phyllic alteration, along with localized silicification and veining. Below 526m, the intensity of alteration diminishes, transitioning to remnant propylitic and weak phyllic assemblages. At 579.8m, a major fault zone was encountered, marked by structurally controlled weak phyllic alteration and localized silicification.

Mineralization is characterized by pervasive disseminated pyrite (1-3%) with quartz-pyrite veining, along with minor chalcopyrite and molybdenite veins. Following the major fault at 579.8m, quartz veining becomes markedly less common. Near-surface intervals contain zones of disseminated and patchy chalcocite, suggesting the surface has been leached in areas and highlights the presence of potential supergene mineralization at Berezski Central.

Hole EL25013: Targets a prominent copper-in-soil anomaly located 1.7 kilometres north of EL25012. The hole intersected medium-grained, fractured andesites overprinted by moderate argillic alteration with remnant propylitic alteration. At 86m depth, the hole transitioned into fine to medium-grained diorites. Argillic alteration continues down to 126.9m, transitioning into weaker argillic assemblages, with several narrow zones of phyllic alteration also noted. Mineralization is characterized by disseminated pyrite (0.5-3%, locally up to 5%), with minor disseminated chalcopyrite and rare galena.

Figure 1. Arras Minerals Elemes Project and project portfolio located in Pavlodar, Kazakhstan

along with reference to Kaz Minerals' Bozshakol Copper Mine1 (see reference below).

Table 1: Summary results from hole EL25012 and EL25013

Notes: Copper Equivalent ("CuEq") grades reported for the drill holes at Elemes were calculated using the following formula: CuEq % = Copper (%) + (Gold (g/t) x 0.8571) + (Silver (g/t) x 0.0117) + (Molybdenum (ppm) x 6.8568). AuEq grades reported for the drill holes at Elemes were calculated using the following formula: AuEq g/t = Gold (g/t) + (Copper (%) x 1.1667) + (Silver (g/t) x 0.0136) + (Molybdenum (ppm) x 8.0). Assumptions used for the copper and gold equivalent calculations were metal prices of US$3.75/lb. Copper, US$3,000/oz Gold, US$35/oz Silver, US$30/lb Molybdenum, and metallurgical recoveries were assumed to be 100%.

Figure 2. Cross-section A-A' looking NW showing key intercepts in drill-holes EL25012, and 2024 drill hole EL24001. The cross-section demonstrates well developed strong porphyry-epithermal style of alteration hosting significant and consistent mineralization by depth that is starting close to the surface.

Figure 3. Cross-section B-B' looking NW showing key intercepts in drill-holes EL25013. The cross-section demonstrates epithermal style of alteration hosting consistent gold mineralization. This Drill Hole is 1.7 km NW from the Berezski Central target.

Figure 4. Map of the Berezski Target highlighting the 8.8 km copper-in-soil anomaly. Drill holes completed by Arras in 2024 are marked in white with a blue center, while holes drilled in 2025 to date are shown in solid yellow.

HOLE EL25012 PHOTOS

EL25012 - 54m depth - disseminated chalcocite and pyrite in strongly altered andesites

EL25012 - 187.5m - Chalcopyrite-pyrite-molybdenite patches in brecciated and silicified andesites

HOLE EL25012 PHOTOS Continued

EL25012 - 256.5m - Pyrite-chalcopyrite=molybdenite vein

EL25012 - 465.1m - B-vein - Quartz vein with pyrite and chalcopyrite along center line of quartz vein

PHOTOS FROM HOLE EL25013

EL25013 - 32.8m depth - smoky quartz-pyrite vein

EL25013 - 257.9m - disseminated chalcopyrite in highly altered andesites

EL25013 - 266.6m - Carbonate-chlorite-pyrite vein

Elemes Project Overview: The Elemes Project comprises two exploration licenses covering 531 square kilometres in northeast Kazakhstan, located approximately 13 km southwest of Ekibastuz and just 20 km from Arras's operational base. The project benefits from exceptional infrastructure, with a paved highway crossing the licence, and access to 1100 KVA power lines, heavy rail, and other utilities within a 15 km radius.

Situated within the prolific Bozshakol-Chingiz metallogenic belt, Elemes lies near significant regional deposits, including the Beskauga porphyry copper-gold-silver deposit (~80 km east) and KAZ Minerals' Bozshakol mine (~60 km northwest), which produced 104.7 kt Cu and 104 koz Au in 20242.

Geologically, the property is underlain by interbedded intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks intruded by multiple phases of diorite and monzodiorite porphyry. Copper-gold mineralization occurs in sheeted and stockwork quartz-chalcopyrite veins associated with these intrusions. In addition, high-grade low-sulphidation epithermal veins have been mapped on the property, representing a secondary exploration target.

Property-wide soil sampling programs in 2022 and 2023 defined two extensive Cu-Mo-As geochemical anomalies: the Berezski and Aimandai Trends, both considered priority targets for follow-up exploration drilling. Initial drilling on the Berezski Trend in late 2024 returned high-grade porphyry/epithermal copper and gold mineralization.

References

1Bozshakol Mine Reserves - Kaz Minerals 2020 annual report

kaz-minerals-annual-report-2020.pdf

2Bozshakol 2024 Production Report

https://www.kazminerals.com/media/23240/q4-2024-production-report_final.pdf

Issuance of DSUs:

The Company has granted an aggregate of 30,936 deferred share units ("DSU") to certain independent directors at a price of C$0.99 per DSU. The DSUs were granted in consideration for services rendered by the directors for the quarter ended July 31, 2025, in lieu of cash. The DSUs were granted in accordance with the Company's Equity Incentive Plan and were priced based on the volume weighted average price of the Company's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange for the last five trading days immediately preceding the grant date. To date, the Company has issued a total of 70,434 DSUs to its independent directors.

Qualified Person: The scientific and technical disclosure for this news release has been prepared under supervision of and approved by Matthew Booth, Vice President of Exploration, of Arras Minerals Corp., a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101. Mr. Booth has over 20 years of mineral exploration experience and is a Qualified Person member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists (CPG 12044).

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Tim Barry"

Tim Barry, MAusIMM CP(Geo)

Chief Executive Officer and Director

INVESTOR RELATIONS:

+1 604 687 5800

info@arrasminerals.com

Further information can be found on:

the Company's website https://www.arrasminerals.com or

follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arrasminerals or

follow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/arrasminerals

About Arras Minerals Corp: Arras is a Canadian exploration and development company advancing a portfolio of copper and gold assets in northeastern Kazakhstan, including the Elemes copper-gold porphyry project. The Company has established one of the largest land packages in the country prospective for copper and gold. In December 2023, the Company entered into a strategic alliance with Teck Resources Limited ("Teck") in which Teck may sole fund a US$5 million generative exploration program over a portion of the Arras license package in 2024-2025. The Company's shares are listed on the TSX-V under the trading symbol "ARK" and on the OTCQB under the trading symbol "ARRKF".

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors concerning estimates of Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources: This press release uses the terms "measured resources", "indicated resources", and "inferred resources" which are defined in, and required to be disclosed by, NI43-101. The Company advises U.S. investors that these terms are not recognized by the SEC. The estimation of measured, indicated and inferred resources involves greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic feasibility than the estimation of proven and probable reserves. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that measured and indicated mineral resources will be converted into reserves. The estimation of inferred resources involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that estimates of inferred mineral resources exist, are economically minable, or will be upgraded into measured or indicated mineral resources. Under Canadian securities laws, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations, however the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. Accordingly, the information contained in this press release may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies that are not subject NI 43-101.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and Arras' future results that are subject to the safe harbors created under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act, and applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding plans and expectations of the exploration program Arras is in the process of undertaking. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about Arras' exploration projects, the industry in which Arras operates and the beliefs and assumptions of Arras' management. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "targets," "goals," "projects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "continues," "may," variations of such words, and similar expressions and references to future periods, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond management's control, including undertaking further exploration activities, the results of such exploration activities and that such results support continued exploration activities, unexpected variations in ore grade, types and metallurgy, volatility and level of commodity prices, the availability of sufficient future financing, and other matters discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Management Discussion and Analysis filed on the Company's profile on SEDAR on February 27, 2025. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this release is based only on information currently available and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

SOURCE: Arras Minerals Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/arras-minerals-drills-440-meters-grading-0.49-cueq-including-252-meters-grading-0-1060521
Achieves Strong Financial Performance; Continuing To Deliver Shareholder Value

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. (TSX:ASM)(NYSE American:ASM)(FSE:GV6) a long-standing silver producer in Mexico, announces its unaudited consolidated interim financial results for the second quarter of 2025. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless stated otherwise.

"We are very pleased to report another quarter of strong financial performance for Avino," said David Wolfin, President and CEO. "The second quarter of 2025 reflects the positive impact of improved mill availability and the operational discipline demonstrated by our team. Revenue and profitability were supported by higher-than-forecasted tonnes milled and continued improvements in plant efficiency. With two strong quarters behind us, we are firmly on track to meet our 2025 financial and operational targets. At La Preciosa, development and blasting activities continue to advance toward the Abundancia vein structure and we are progressing towards the milestone of bringing La Preciosa material into production. With solid financial results from the Avino Mine and continued progress at La Preciosa, we remain on track with our transformational growth strategy."

Second Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights (compared to Q2 2024)

Robust Revenues: Avino realized revenues of $21.8 million, representing a 47% increase from $14.8 million, primarily as a result of increased metal prices and consistent production. At the end of the quarter, there was $5.2 million in concentrate sales receivable converted to cash subsequent to quarter end.

Quarterly Profits: Net income after taxes was $2.9 million, or $0.02 per share, an increase from $1.2 million, or $0.01 per share.

Operating Margins Remain Elevated: Gross profit, or mine operating income, was $10.2 million and represented an increase of 118% from $4.8 million. The significant improvement was a result of meaningful unit cost reductions from economies of scale, with 36% higher tonnes milled. This is the third consecutive quarter of over $10 million in mine operating income reported.

Strong EBITDA and Adjusted Earnings : The Company realized earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, of $7.4 million, up 118% from $3.4 million. Adjusted earnings 3 was $8.8 million, or $0.06 per share, an increase of 103% from $4.3 million and $0.03 per share.

Improved Costs per Ounce Metrics: Cash costs per silver equivalent payable ounce sold 1,2,3 was $15.11, and all-in sustaining cash costs per silver equivalent payable ounce sold 1,2,3 was $20.93, a reduction of 7% and 8%, respectively.

Increased Working Capital from Cash Flow: The Company's balance sheet continued to strengthen with working capital 1 increasing to $40.6 million, up $9.2 million, or 30% from $31.3 million at the end of Q1 2025, as a result of another quarter of cash generation. Cash provided by operating activities of $8.3 million or $0.06 per share. Prior to working capital movements, cash generated from operating activities was $6.3 million, or $0.04 per share.

Index Inclusion in Q2 2025: Early July, Avino was included in the S&P/TSX Global Mining Index having been officially recognized as part of a global benchmark for the mining sector. In addition, as announced on May 1, 2025, Avino received inclusion into the Solactive Global Silver Miners Index, further solidifying Avino as an established silver producer with a growing production profile. Avino expects further index inclusion in the coming months which should provide additional liquidity and opportunities for increasing institutional ownership.

Operational and Financial Highlights

HIGHLIGHTS (In US$, unless otherwise noted) Second Quarter 2025 Second Quarter 2024 Change YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Change Tonnes Milled 190,987 140,934 36 % 358,840 310,529 16 % Silver Ounces Produced 283,619 292,946 -3 % 549,300 543,589 1 % Gold Ounces Produced 1,774 1,514 17 % 3,999 3,292 21 % Copper Pounds Produced 1,461,980 1,305,549 12 % 3,065,323 2,652,659 16 % Silver Equivalent Ounces1 Produced 645,602 616,571 5 % 1,324,060 1,246,053 6 %

Concentrate Sales and Cash Costs Silver Equivalent Payable Ounces Sold2 676,453 537,037 26 % 1,244,334 1,147,914 8 % Cash Cost per Silver Equivalent Payable Ounce1,2,3 $ 15.11 $ 16.29 -7 % $ 13.97 $ 15.55 -10 % All-in Sustaining Cash Cost per Silver Equivalent PayableOunce1,2,3 $ 20.93 $ 22.74 -8 % $ 20.54 $ 21.40 -4 %

Financial Operating Performance (in 000's) Revenues $ 21,805 $ 14,787 47 % $ 40,641 $ 27,180 50 % Mine operating income $ 10,224 $ 4,697 118 % $ 20,786 $ 7,036 195 % Net income $ 2,864 $ 1,240 131 % $ 8,481 $ 1,839 361 % Earnings before interest, taxes and amortization ("EBITDA")3 $ 7,432 $ 3,409 118 % $ 17,130 $ 5,122 234 % Adjusted earnings3 $ 8,837 $ 4,348 103 % $ 18,592 $ 6,404 190 % Cash provided by operating activities $ 8,350 $ 1,078 675 % $ 9,108 $ 3,425 166 % Mine operating cash flow beforetaxes3 $ 11,273 $ 5,877 92 % $ 22,670 $ 9,037 151 %

Per Share Amounts Earnings per share $ 0.02 $ 0.01 100 % $ 0.06 $ 0.01 500 % Adjusted earnings per share3 $ 0.06 $ 0.03 100 % $ 0.12 $ 0.05 140 %

Liquidity & Working Capital (in 000's) June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 Change June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Change Cash $ 37,279 $ 26,627 40 % $ 37,279 $ 27,317 36 % Working capital3 $ 40,615 $ 31,339 30 % $ 40,616 $ 25,235 61 %

2nd Quarter Operating Highlights (Compared to Q2 2024)

Silver Equivalent Production Increased 5%: Avino produced 645,602 silver equivalent ounces in Q2 2025, representing a 5% increase from Q2 of 2024. This increase was driven by significantly improved mill availability, with our highest quarterly mill throughput in history. This record throughput was partially offset by lower feed grades in all three metals (silver, gold and copper), as we moved through a lower grade section of the mine plan.

Record Mill Throughput : In Q2 2025, Avino achieved 36% higher mill throughput versus Q2 2024, totalling a quarterly record of 190,987 tonnes of material. These throughput levels were a result of previous upgrades and automation enhancements made by our operations team, demonstrating significant improvements in mill availability.

Gold Production Increased 17%: Q2 2025 production of 1,774 gold ounces represented a 17% increase compared to Q2 2024. This improved production resulted from the increased tonnes processed, alongside significant improvements in gold recoveries to 74% from 70% in Q2 of 2024.

Copper Production Increased 12%: Avino produced 1.5 million pounds of copper in Q2 2025, a 12% increase compared to Q2 2024.

Silver Production decreased 3%: Silver production for Q2 2025 was 283,619 ounces, representing a 3% decrease compared to Q2 2024.

La Preciosa Update

Blasting and construction of the relatively short 360 meter San Fernando main access decline is underway, and equipment mobilization has been swift, allowing development to advance on plan. The new jumbo drill is working on this ramp as it progresses toward intercepting the Gloria and Abundancia veins. Site services have been installed and an existing building has been renovated for site personnel. Recent photos showcasing the work at La Preciosa are available on the Avino website - click here to view them.

2025 Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures for the first half of 2025, including lease and loan payments on equipment, were $6.9 million, compared to $4.4 million for the same period in 2024, on track for our capital expenditure guidance previously disclosed in our 2025 outlook news release.

ESG Initiatives

Avino follows the ESG Standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development goals. There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were developed as a call to action by all countries developed and developing in a global partnership.

Avino has published it's Inaugural Sustainability Report on the website, click here to view. This marks a major milestone in our journey toward greater accountability and responsible growth and it reflects our commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and long-term value creation for all stakeholders.

Strategic projects in the communities that commenced during the second quarter include: Delivery of low cost water tanks and cisterns, a trench was formed to channel rainwater from the mine, a 5 hectare community reforestation has been approved, a total of 67 families in the communities received solar boilers at reduced cost, made possible through company-led facilitation of a subsidy program, and a donation was made to the Mining and History Museum in the City of Durango.

Mexican nationals account for 100% of our mine work force. Currently, we have approximately 483 direct jobs which includes the workers at the mine site and in our Durango offices.

The earnings should be read in conjunction with the Company's Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the corresponding period, which can be viewed on the Company's website at www.avino.com, or on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca or on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Qualified Person

Peter Latta, P. Eng, MBA, VP Technical Services, Avino, who is a qualified person within the context of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical data in this news release.

Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures

The financial results in this news release include references to non-IFRS Accounting Standards measures. These measures are used by the Company to manage and evaluate the operating performance of the Company's mining operations and are widely reported in the silver and gold mining industry as benchmarks for performance, but do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS. For a reconciliation of non-GAAP and GAAP measures, please refer to the "Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures" section of the Company's MD&A dated August 13, 2025 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, which is incorporated by reference within this news release and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Conference Call and Webcast

The Company's unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the Second Quarter 2025, will be released after the market closes on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

A conference call to discuss the Company's Q2 2025 operational and financial results will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. PT / 11:00 a.m. ET. To participate in the conference call or follow the webcast, please see the details below.

Shareholders, analysts, investors, and media are invited to join the webcast and conference call by logging in here Avino's Q2 2025 Financial Results or by dialing the following numbers five to ten minutes prior to the start time.

Toll Free: 888-506-0062

International: +1 973-528-0011

Participant Access Code: 992730

Participants will be greeted by an operator and asked for the access code. If a caller does not have the code, they can reference the company name. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions during the Q&A portion.

The conference call and webcast will be recorded, and the replay will be available on the Company's website later that day.

About Avino

Avino is a silver producer from its wholly owned Avino Mine near Durango, Mexico. The Company's silver, gold and copper production remains unhedged. The Company intends to maintain long term sustainable and profitable mining operations to reward shareholders and the community alike through our growth at the historic Avino Property and the strategic acquisition of the adjacent La Preciosa which was finalized in Q1 2022. Early in 2024, the pre-feasibility Study on the Oxide Tailings Project was completed. This study is a key milestone in our growth trajectory. As part of Avino's commitment to adopting sustainable practices, we have been operating a dry-stack tailings facility for more than two years with excellent results. We are committed to managing all business activities in a safe, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective manner, while contributing to the well-being of the communities in which we operate. We encourage you to connect with us on X (formerly Twitter) at @Avino_ASM and on LinkedIn at Avino Silver & Gold Mines. To view the Avino Mine VRIFY tour, please click here.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Investor Relations

Tel: 604-682-3701

Email: IR@avino.com

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (together, the "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including the mineral resource estimate for the Company's Avino Property, including La Preciosa, located near Durango in west-central Mexico (the "Avino Property") with an effective date of October 16, 2023 and can be viewed within Avino's latest technical report dated February 5, 2024 for the Pre-feasibility Study and references to to Measured, Indicated Resources, and Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves referred to in this press release. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements" are made as of the date of this document. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: (i) the estimated amount and grade of mineral reserves and mineral resources, including the cut-off grade; (ii) estimates of the capital costs of constructing mine facilities and bringing a mine into production, of operating the mine, of sustaining capital, of strip ratios and the duration of financing payback periods; (iii) the estimated amount of future production, both ore processed and metal recovered and recovery rates; (iv) estimates of operating costs, life of mine costs, net cash flow, net present value (NPV) and economic returns from an operating mine; and (v) the completion of the full Technical Report, including a Preliminary Economic Assessment, and its timing. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "envisages", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and the dates of technical reports, as applicable. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the future circumstances, outcomes or results anticipated in or implied by such forward-looking statements will occur or that plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. While we have based these forward-looking statements on our expectations about future events at the date that such statements were prepared, the statements are not a guarantee that such future events will occur and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors which could cause events or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Cautionary note to U.S. Investors concerning estimates of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources

All reserve and resource estimates reported by Avino were estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") now recognizes estimates of "measured mineral resources," "indicated mineral resources" and "inferred mineral resources" and uses new definitions of "proven mineral reserves" and "probable mineral reserves" that are substantially similar to the corresponding CIM Definition Standards. However, the CIM Definition Standards differ from the requirements applicable to US domestic issuers. US investors are cautioned not to assume that any "measured mineral resources," "indicated mineral resources," or "inferred mineral resources" that the Issuer reports are or will be economically or legally mineable. Further, "inferred mineral resources" are that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade are estimated on the basis of limited geologic evidence and sampling. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Footnotes:

In Q2 2025, AgEq was calculated using metal prices of $33.64 per oz Ag, $3,280 per oz Au and $4.32 per lb Cu. In Q2 2024, AgEq was calculated using metals prices of $28.86 oz Ag, $2,331 oz Au and $4.43 lb Cu. For YTD 2025, AgEq was calculated using metal prices of $32.77 per oz Ag, $3,071 per oz Au and $4.28 per lb Cu. For YTD 2024, AgEq was calculated using metal prices of $26.11 oz Ag, $2,205 oz Au and $4.13 lb Cu. Calculated figures may not add up due to rounding. "Silver equivalent payable ounces sold" for the purposes of cash costs and all-in sustaining costs consists of the sum of payable silver ounces, gold ounces and copper tonnes sold, before penalties, treatment charges, and refining charges, multiplied by the ratio of the average spot gold and copper prices to the average spot silver price for the corresponding period. Non-IFRS Accounting Standard measure. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance, but do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and the calculation methods may differ from methods used by other companies with similar reported measures. See Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures section for further information and detailed reconciliations.

SOURCE: Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/avino-announces-q2-2025-financial-results-1060652
By Isaac Phan Nay,

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Every day, just after 2 p.m., either Rob Trendiak or his wife, Eliza, leaves their work to retrieve their two kids from daycare. The rest of their day is spent cooking dinner, mediating between siblings and putting the kids to bed  often all before picking up where they left off at work.

Parents to two children aged three and four, Trendiak and his wife recently returned to full-time work. Now, every day is a juggling act.

Deadlines are deadlines and life is expensive, Trendiak said. Both of us love our job; however, toddlers and childcare mean we have a puzzle to grind out every single day.

Trendiak is thankful that he and his wife both own their businesses, giving them the wiggle room to rise to the daily challenges of childcare.

But that flexibility is available only to a fraction of Canadians. In a recent report, researchers with the Vanier Institute of the Family found that Canada lags behind similar countries in supporting working parents with flexible work arrangements and parental leave hours.

The researchers are calling for the federal government to implement policies that already exist in the United Kingdom and New Zealand, including a national sick leave policy and the right for all working parents to request flexible work arrangements.

Economist Jim Stanford says these policies would make a big difference for parents  but only if they also come with better access to affordable child care.

Working parents face a constant juggling act to combine work and caring for their families, and those caring duties never follow a predictable or reliable schedule, Stanford said. Canadas labour standards are too rigid regarding working hours and arrangements.

In the report published last May, a team of three labour researchers set out to find the gaps in Canadas federal, provincial and territorial policies for employed caregivers. Then, they compared Canadian labour laws with those of nearly 60 other wealthy countries.

While some countries give working parents the right to request flexible working arrangements, that support is available for only a fraction of Canadians, said lead author and University of British Columbia sociology PhD candidate Manlin Cai.

We have all kinds of care demands as workers, Cai said. Often, parents dont have a choice; they have to miss work, and if they miss work, there are also a bunch of other negative consequences.

In the United Kingdom, for example, employers are required to consider employees requests for modified hours or work location.

All employees have the right to request flexible working arrangements if they care for an adult, a child under the age of six or a minor with a disability.

While the employees right to ask for flexibility is enshrined in law in that country, its not guaranteed that their request will be granted. Employers can turn down requests if they can justify a business reason.

In New Zealand, caregivers have the right to request flexible working arrangements if they have been employed at a company for at least six months.

These are strong international models to learn from, Cai said. We can see from these great examples that we have the chance and space to make some progress.

Thats a far cry from whats available to working parents in Canada. The Canada Labour Code gives workers in the federally regulated private sector  including industries like air transportation and banking  the right to request flexible working arrangements. Thats only approximately seven per cent of the workforce, researchers found.

Meanwhile, public servants in some provinces, like British Columbia, Manitoba and Newfoundland and Labrador, have the right to negotiate hybrid work arrangements with their supervisors.

Working parents also lack access to personal leave when compared with other countries, researchers say.

Canada has a relatively fragmented patchwork system in implementing leave policies, Cai said. We really hope to have this broader, inclusive, universal access.

A lack of leave

Of the 57 wealthy countries the team studied, Canada joins the United States and Japan as the only countries with no federal sick leave policy.

Currently, employees in the federally regulated sector and all provinces are entitled to time off for family responsibilities.

For federally regulated workplaces and in five provinces, including Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, employees can use their sick leave to attend to family needs.

In British Columbia, workers are entitled to take at least five days of unpaid leave for family reasons.

Personal leave for family reasons is also typically unpaid, except for the first three days under the federal jurisdiction and the first two days in Quebec. But the total amount of family responsibility leave  both paid and unpaid  varies from province to province, researchers wrote and varies from three to 12 days.

Meanwhile, federally regulated private sector employees and workers in only four provinces and territories have legally mandated access to paid sick leave.

On the other end of the spectrum is Sweden, Cai said. That country extends its parental leave policy to accommodate parents throughout a childs early years. Parents are entitled to share a total of 480 days of paid parental leave when a child is born. It includes the typical parental leave parents get when their child is born and can be used at a parents discretion until the child is 12 years old or finishes the fifth grade.

Sweden is the golden example, Cai said. They can save some days of parental leave to meet caregiving demands later, which I think is a very good model.

The limited scope of personal leave in Canada undermines many families financial security, the researchers wrote in the report.

They added that a lack of access to paid sick leave fails to support parents through common day-to-day parenting situations, like taking care of a kid with the myriad of small-scale contagious illnesses that afflict children.

We may have rising health concerns if workers go to work while feeling sick, or if they have to send their children to school while children are sick, Cai said. And when workers miss work, the employers shoulder the economic consequences.

The report calls for a national policy of 10 paid days of sick leave per year, and for governments at all levels to expand their definition of sick leave to accommodate caregiving responsibilities.

We really want to address those short-term caregiving needs in daily life, those caregiving needs that are predictably unpredictable, like colds, Cai said.

Back in Vancouver, Trendiak had some concerns. He said that while the policies could help employees of major employers, it could be difficult for small businesses.

Trendiak said when the provincial government mandated five paid sick days for businesses in 2022, the policy upped his family businesss costs by $60,000  ultimately forcing them to sell the business.

That policy would murder small businesses, Trendiak said. I sympathize on the parents side now that Im a parent of two toddlers trying to juggle it all, but small businesses  that would flatline them.

Instead, he said, the Affordable Child Care Benefit  a monthly payment from the provincial government to address the costs of childcare  has massively helped his family manage financial pressures.

He added that expanding access to affordable childcare would help his family manage care responsibilities. Advocates told The Tyee earlier this year that British Columbia is years behind on providing universal $10-a-day childcare.

It took us three years to get into a solid, quality daycare, Trendiak said. I think thats crazy.  The Tyee
Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) ("Focus" or the "Company"), a leading Canadian graphite developer advancing high-grade projects in Quebec, is pleased to announce the resumption of work on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ("ESIA") for its 100%-owned Lac Knife flake graphite project located near Fermont, in the province's prolific iron ore mining district.

The Company has formally re-engaged IOS Geosciences Inc. ("IOS"), a leading Quebec-based geological consulting firm and former general contractor on the ESIA, to complete a total of sixteen (16) technical reports required for submission to Quebec's environmental and natural resource authorities. These reports represent a major step in advancing the Lac Knife project toward permitting and the goal of mine construction.

The ESIA program, initially launched in 2020, involves multidisciplinary technical evaluations and environmental baseline work conducted across 2020 and 2021. Finalization was delayed due to funding constraints but is now back on track. Report completion is estimated by early 2026, with submissions planned shortly thereafter to the Quebec Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment, and the Fight Against Climate Change ("MDDELCC"), as well as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests ("MRNF").

The sixteen (16) technical reports in progress cover critical permitting areas, including:

Condemnation and pit wall drilling

Acid-generating potential analysis

Geotechnical drilling and soil mechanics

Soil geochemistry and chemistry baseline

Lake-bottom geochemical and surface water quality surveys

Groundwater habitat assessment and follow-up

Caribou habitat assessment and follow-up

Geometallurgical and graphite flake characterization

These comprehensive studies are essential for satisfying Quebec's rigorous environmental and social licensing requirements and underscore Focus Graphite's commitment to environmental stewardship and Indigenous engagement through project development.

In parallel, Focus has also authorized IOS proceed with geochemical analysis of over 1,000 split and pulverized drill core samples collected from its 2022 exploration drilling program at the Lac Tetepisca ("Tetepisca") graphite project. The samples, targeting the Southwest MOGC and West Limb geophysical (MAG-EM) conductors, will undergo carbon and sulfur determinations at certified laboratories.

Upon receipt of assays, IOS will finalize and submit the corresponding technical reports covering 14,900.5 metres of core drilling from 74 holes to the MRNF. An updated Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") and National Instrument ("NI") 43-101 compliant Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the Manicouagan-Ouest Graphitic Corridor ("MOGC") graphite deposit is anticipated in Fall 2025, which will further define Tetepisca's development potential alongside Lac Knife.

"Resuming the ESIA is a pivotal milestone that moves us closer to full permitting and our goal of mine development at Lac Knife," said Dean Hanisch, CEO of Focus Graphite. "With most fieldwork and laboratory studies already complete, we're in a strong position to finalize this critical stage efficiently. At the same time, initiating assay work at Tetepisca to support an upgraded mineral resource estimate reflects our commitment to building value across our entire Quebec asset base."

The Company also announced the grant of incentive stock options as compensation to its directors, officers, employees, and consultants. Options to purchase up to 4,215,000 Common Shares of the Company have been granted at an exercise price of $0.14 per share. The options expire on 13 August, 2030. Additionally, the Company has granted 1,350,000 restricted stock units ("RSUs") to officers, directors, and consultants of the Company under the terms of the Company's restricted share unit and equity incentive plan (the "RSU and EIP Plan"). Each RSU entitles the holder to acquire one common share of the Company after the vesting period in accordance with the Plan.

Qualified Persons

The technical content disclosed in this news release was reviewed and approved by Rejean Girard, P.Geo. (QC), President of IOS Geosciences Inc., a consultant to the Company, and a qualified person as defined under National Instrument NI-43-101.

About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc.

Focus Graphite Advanced Materials is redefining the future of critical minerals with two 100% owned world-class graphite projects and cutting-edge battery technology. Our flagship Lac Knife project stands as one of the most advanced high-purity graphite deposits in North America, with a fully completed feasibility study. Lac Knife is set to become a key supplier for the battery, defense, and advanced materials industries.

Our Lac Tetepisca project further strengthens our portfolio, with the potential to be one of the largest and highest-purity and grade graphite deposits in North America. At Focus, we go beyond mining - we are pioneering environmentally sustainable processing solutions and innovative battery technologies, including our patent-pending silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite, designed to enhance battery performance and efficiency.

Our commitment to innovation ensures a chemical-free, eco-friendly supply chain from mine to market. Collaboration is at the core of our vision. We actively partner with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials. As a North American company, we are dedicated to securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals - reducing dependence on foreign-controlled markets and driving the transition to a sustainable future.

For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit http://www.focusgraphite.com

Investors Contact:

Cautionary Note Regarding 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, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the completion and submission of the sixteen technical reports required for the Lac Knife Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, the anticipated timeline for ESIA report submission and permitting, the initiation and results of geochemical analyses at the Lac Tetepisca project, the anticipated updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate for the Tetepisca deposit, the Company's positioning as a near- and long-term secure supplier of specialty graphite materials, and the potential geopolitical significance of Canadian graphite supply.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.

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.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services 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/262450

SOURCE: Focus Graphite Inc.
Pitt reportedly bought the property for $5.5 million in April 2023, according to Traded, a commercial real estate website.

Four people have been arrested in connection with a burglary earlier this summer at a Los Angeles home reportedly owned by actor Brad Pitt, police said Tuesday.

Officers responded June 25 to a break-in at the house in LAs Los Feliz neighborhood.

Police said at the time that suspects broke in through the front window, ransacked the home and fled with miscellaneous property.

Detectives have made four arrests, Officer Drake Madison said Tuesday. He said the suspects names could be released later in the day.

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Officials could not identify who owned or lived in the home, and no information was available on what was stolen.

Pitt reportedly bought the property for $5.5 million in April 2023, according to Traded, a commercial real estate website.

A representative for Pitt declined to comment Tuesday.

Pitt had been out of the country in June on a globe-spanning promotional tour for his new movie, F1.
In an interview with The Times UK, the actor, who is of Indian descent, opened up about getting typecasted based on her skin colour.

Actor Ambika Mod says she is asked to audition for the stereotypical brown roles despite proving her acting prowess in a lead role with Netflixs acclaimed series One Day.

In an interview with The Times UK, the actor, who is of Indian descent, opened up about getting typecasted based on her skin colour.

Its just the industry and the way that our society works. You either get asked to audition for brown roles, which are usually, the doctor, the dentist, the policewoman, Mod shared, while alluding to her One Day co-star Leo Woodalls success in finding lead roles across diverse genres.

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Since One Day, Woodall has acted in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, and plays the lead in Apple TV series Prime Target.

Even in the past year and a half, I have been asked to audition for the rookie cop who investigates the story of the two interesting white leads, she said.

Mod said she is no stranger to such treatment. Ive read the most unsavoury things about myself on the internet, but I think thats rooted in racism and misogyny.

The actor has often spoke about her experience in the industry. In an earlier interview with Deadline, she spoke about the pressure of representing the South Asian diaspora.

When people talked about my white co-stars performance, they would often talk about his acting and the quality of his work, whereas with me  not all the time  it was about how amazing it was that Im brown, and what a change-making casting choice it was. I would think, What about my performance and my work? the actor told Deadline earlier this year.

One Day, based on the novel by David Nicholls, was a career-changing role for both Mod and Woodall.

The Netflix series revolved around two university students who share a night together, but due to differing life goals, struggle to find a future. The show saw much acclaim, and was one of the most viewed Netflix series globally on the week of its release.

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Mod has since appeared in Steven Soderberghs 2025 spy thriller Black Bag alongside Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett and Pierce Brosnan. She has also played journalist Selma Desai in the Disney distributed thriller The Stolen Girl.
On Tuesday, August 12, at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, Jaya Bachchan had arrived for a gathering. A man approached her for a selfie during the event

Actress and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan has once again grabbed the headlines not for her work but for her angry behaviour. The politician again lost her temper at a public event, which garnered severe backlash on social media from users.

Rowdy Goon Frustrated and Angry Old Lady Jaya Bachchan

Shameful and disgusting behaviour #JayaBachchan pic.twitter.com/P07aIGPctR  Nandini Idnani  (@nandiniidnani69) August 12, 2025

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On Tuesday, August 12, at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, Jaya Bachchan had arrived for a gathering. A man approached her for a selfie during the event. Instead of declining calmly, Jaya Bachchan pushed the man angrily and screamed, Kya kar rahe hai aap? What is this? The man is later seen apologising in the video.

Several citizens slammed the veteran actress on social media, terming it unacceptable. One user wrote, She could have just said no. Pushing someone in a public place is not acceptable, especially from a public figure. This is not the first time shes lashed out. If a BJP MP had done this, there would have been chaos, another netizen commented.

Jaya Bachchan doing it again, at her best. She could have simply refused a photo, but she pushes the man. Why this arrogance, always? She doesnt deserve to be in public life. Imagine the outrage if a BJP MP had done this, an X user wrote.

SHOCKING: Jaya Bachchan back at it again! ~ Man requests a selfie, she couldve just said NO. But instead, she goes Physical & HITS HIM. Where does this ARROGANCE come from? another post read.

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On the professional front, Jaya Bachchan will be next seen in Siddhant Chaturvedi and Wamiqa Gabbis Dil Ka Darwaaza Khol Na Darling. The film is expected to hit the screens this year. It is directed by Vikas Bahl.
Credit must be given to the makers to put together all their ideas and mix it into one show. Even when it overstays its welcome and is marred by inconsistent vein, Andhera ultimately feels like a tolerable attempt

Cast: Priya Bapat, Karanvir Malhotra, Prajakta Koli, Surveen Chawla, Vatsal Sheth, Parvin Dabas, Pranay Pachauri

Director: Raaghav Dar

Language: Hindi

Prime Videos Andhera begins with a couples homily conversation on a CGI-coded beach that soon morphs into the shows first jump scare. We get another one before the opening credits begin to roll, and by the time we reach the third episode, the total goes up to 786 with little exaggeration. Its hard to describe what the show is aiming for since the makers bite more than they can chew. It has multiple pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that creator Gaurav Desai and director Raaghav Dar try to intertwine with hit and miss results. But they do try to legitimize the moniker by keeping things in the dark, both for the characters and the viewers. And there are endless conversations about how they feel darkness around them.

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A bruised Priya Bapat whos investigating the case of a missing girl has visions about her traumatic past that leads her to the omnipresent Surveen Chawla. An encounter supposedly for healing exposes her sexual identity. The social subtext is handled with care and restrain. The other piece of this puzzle is Karanvir Malhotra, whos battling depression and PTSD. Hes terrorized by an evil spirit whose screeches bring back memories of Vikram Bhatts endless 1920 franchises. Theres Prajakta Koli, (almost) playing herself, called Rumi. Given the noir splashed on us, this name suggests she could be the only character to lighten up the scene.

The idea to keep the frames gloomy is unquestionably intentional. They are mostly bathed in blue, and all the spots are soulless set-pieces, be it a childrens healthcare or a police station or a content creators workplace. People in Andhera dont use electricity purely to make sure they are able to justify the name of the series. Unlike Prime Videos Khauff, which was more brutal and visceral in its telling, this one aims for a Bollywoodized treatment that adds jump scares more for effect than impact. And given the changing and evolving landscape of horror, especially with Together and Weapons recently, Andhera, despite the heightened ambitions, gets dwarfed in the crowd only because of its inability to decide what tone to adapt to.

Thats not to say its a sore thumb. The idea to create a concoction and cocktail of mental health, sexual identities, supernatural, and horror is as ambitious on paper as its on screen. The creepy yet crackling visuals accompanied by a daunting background music, especially towards the end of episode three, give the show the mood it needed and deserved. What takes away the essence of the narrative is the ill-timed humour. A scene where Rumi and Jay invite the evil spirit is so Jaani Dushman-esque that you yearn for Raj Babbars hysterical expressions while calling Manisha Koiralas Divya with all his eroticism. The long-lost Kavin Dave makes an appearance that feels straight out of I Hate Luv Storys.

There are some glaring cliches too. Two male police officers deride a female cop for what else but her gender. She has a cringe cohort that cracks lunatic jokes. But the real issue here is the big reveal! Why he did what he did! It could be acquired taste. Its not your usual revenge saga. It has to do something with human consciousness and immortality. After ticking the boxes of horror, comedy, whodunnit, Andhera makes an endeavour to veer into the space of sci-fi.

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Credit must be given to the makers to put together all their ideas and mix it into one show. Even when it overstays its welcome and is marred by inconsistent vein, Andhera ultimately feels like a tolerable attempt. But do you know how it feels when you feel a film or a show that could have been so much more ends up being middling? DARK!

Rating: 3 (out of 5 stars)

Andhera is now streaming on Prime Video
Amid uproar over the Supreme Courts order to round up all stray dogs in Delhi and its neighbouring NCR regions within eight weeks, the CM Rekha Gupta-led government says preparations are already in motion to put the plan into action. The capitals Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh says the removal will be carried out in a phased manner by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, with primary focus on rabid canines

As per Dellhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, the removal of stray dogs will be carried out in phases rather than all at once. The first step will focus on dogs that are infected with rabies or are prone to biting. File image. PTI

Delhi is gearing up for a major change on its streets. Following the Supreme Courts order to remove an estimated 10 lakh stray dogs from the city and its neighbouring NCR areas within eight weeks, preparations are already in motion to put the plan into action.

The move has triggered sharp reactions. Many Residents Welfare Associations have welcomed it, saying it will make neighbourhoods safer. But animal rights groups have slammed the plan, arguing that civic bodies simply dont have the space, funds or systems to carry out such a massive task, and warning it could end up creating more problems than it solves.

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Amid the debate, Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh has backed the Supreme Courts move. Speaking to ANI, he said work is already underway at the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to plan its execution.

Heres what we know about the citys plan so far.

How Delhi plans to tackle the stray dog problem

According to Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, the removal of stray dogs will be carried out in phases rather than all at once. The first step will focus on dogs that are infected with rabies or are prone to biting.

We will implement the order in a phased manner. We will send those dogs first to shelter homes that are suffering from some disease," Singh told ANI. Later, we will focus on other stray dogs, he added.

VIDEO | Reacting to the SC order on stray dogs, Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal says, "It's a good judgment that will provide relief not only to the people of Delhi but also the animals. This judgment reflects the voice of the people of the city. Those who want to work in the service of pic.twitter.com/QjHuX52XeG  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 12, 2025

As part of the plan, the Delhi Municipal Corporation will convert 20 existing sterilisation centres into dog shelters. NGOs will be brought on board to manage operations, and the government will soon launch a helpline, a step directed by the Supreme Court.

Singh also revealed that a meeting with agencies across Delhi-NCR is being planned to create dog-free zones and scale up the sterilisation programme. The MCD is forming a sub-committee to draft a policy for dog shelters, with input from animal welfare groups, veterinary experts, and legal advisors.

CM Rekha Gupta never says no to any project, and she thinks about public welfare. In shelter homes, the dogs will be treated as pets, Singh said.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has been holding its own meetings on the matter. Minister Kapil Mishra emphasised that the move would be implemented with compassion.

Calling the stray dog situation in Delhi extremely grim, the bench ordered authorities to relocate all strays from streets to shelters at the earliest . PTI

We are committed to the welfare of homeless animals. The courts decision will remove obstacles in our path. We will implement it in a time-bound manner, keeping kindness, compassion, and humanity in mind," Mishra said.

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Activists, animal lovers push back

As officials prepare to act on the Supreme Courts order, animal rights groups and many dog lovers are voicing strong opposition.

Veteran animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi called the directive impractical and financially unviable, estimating it would cost around Rs 15,000 crore, plus an additional Rs 5 crore every week just for feeding.

VIDEO | Animal Rights Activist Maneka Gandhi spoke on the Supreme Court's order to remove all stray dogs from the Delhi-NCR streets within 8 weeks. She says, "This judgment is a suo motu case, which means nobody complained; the judge took it up on his own. We were expecting pic.twitter.com/yOIQjlCVFE  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 11, 2025

PETA India has also labelled the ruling illogical, arguing that with an estimated 10 lakh stray dogs in Delhi, mass sheltering is simply impossible and would likely lead to very bad living conditions.

Activists warn that such confinement could trigger trauma, starvation, and outbreaks of disease among the animals.

#WATCH | "They don't want us to talk... I am being detained because I do the noble work of feeding animals," says a caregiver of dogs while being detained by the Police for protesting in front of the India Gate against the SC order to send all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters https://t.co/iOHSibywmO pic.twitter.com/7U1dh0xorO  ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2025

The solution lies in scaling up Delhis sterilisation and vaccination programmes, implementing robust waste management to reduce conflict, and running public awareness campaigns on co-existence. This approach protects both human and animal health, complies with Indian law, and upholds Delhis commitment to humane, science-based governance, said Bharati Ramachandran, CEO of the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), in a statement to News18.

Animal rights groups also argue the top court order violates the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which require that sterilised and vaccinated dogs be released back into their initial locations.

Supreme Courts order

Earlier this week, while hearing a suo motu case on the surge in dog-bite incidents across the National Capital Region, the Supreme Court issued strict directions to the Delhi civic body to round up stray dogs, sterilise them, and move them permanently to shelters.

Delhi and its neighbouring NCR cities have been grappling with a string of alarming dog-bite cases. In February 2024, a two-year-old girl was mauled to death by a pack of stray dogs in Dhobhi Ghat, Tughlaq Lane, while sitting outside her home. More recently, in June this year, a six-year-old from Rohinis Pooth Kalan died of rabies weeks after being bitten.

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Calling the stray dog situation extremely grim, the bench ordered authorities to relocate all strays from streets to shelters at the earliest and warned of strict action against anyone obstructing the drive.

As an immediate measure, the court instructed civic bodies to create shelter capacity for at least 5,000 dogs, recruit staff for sterilisation and vaccination, install CCTV cameras in shelters, set up a helpline for bite reports, and consider forming a dedicated task force.

The ruling applies to Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad, and covers both sterilised and unsterilised animals.

With input from agencies
US President Donald Trump will be meeting his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Alaska on Friday (August 15). The location of the high-stakes summit assumes importance as the territory was once held by Russia. It later sold it to the US for just $7.2 million. Heres why

The US bought Alaska from Russia in 1867. Wikimedia Commons

United States President Donald Trump is set to meet Russias Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday (August 15). In a gaffe earlier this week, the American leader said on television that the high-stakes summit between him and Putin will be in Russia.

He would have been right if only it were over a century and a half back, when the Russian empire held Alaska. Russia sold the territory to the US in 1867.

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But why? We will explain.

Russia seizes Alaska

In the mid-18th century, Siberian merchants and adventurers crossed the Bering Sea to arrive in Alaska for sea otter pelts. The fur traders set up hubs in Sitka, formerly known as New Archangel, and on Kodiak Island.

A merchant called Alexander Baranov strengthened Russias hold on the region in the late 18th century. He expanded settlements and brutally suppressed resistance, including from the native Tlingit, who gave him the nickname No Heart, as per The Guardian.

Later, Russian Orthodox priests reached Alaska, establishing missions and churches. Missionaries baptised an estimated 18,000 Alaska Natives, reported Associated Press (AP).

Russian settlers forced Alaska Natives to harvest sea otters and other marine mammals for their pelts, Ian Hartman, a University of Alaska Anchorage history professor, told the American news agency.

It was a relationship that the Russians made clear quite early on was not really about kind of a longer-term pattern of settlement, but it was much more about a short-term pattern of extraction, Hartman said.

The Russian population in Alaska was less than 400 permanent settlers, as per the Office of the Historian of the US State Department.

Why Russia sold Alaska to the US

Alaska became an expensive outpost for the Russian empire by the mid-19th century, which it could no longer afford. By 1867, the otters had been hunted nearly to extinction, taking a toll on the profitability of the colony.

Russias defeat in the Crimean War to Britain, France, and Turkey had left it broke. The Russian tsar did not want to negotiate with Great Britain or for Alaska to be taken over by an enemy.

Amid its changing economic prospects and geopolitical concerns, Russia decided to sell its colony. It then sought the only other potential buyer, the United States. They came together by a mutual hostility toward Great Britain and similar stances on most foreign policy issues, according to a Library of Congress article.

Russia first made the offer to sell Alaska, then called Russian America, in 1859. However, the sale was delayed by the American Civil War, as per the US state department website.

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The US was interested in buying Alaska as it was looking to expand. In the 1840s, it took Oregon, Texas and California as its own territory.

The Americans finally bought the Russian territory in 1867 for $7.2 million.

What Russia-US thought of the deal

In St Petersburg, the deal was criticised by some, who believed the price for the colony was insultingly low.

The liberal paper Golos described the cheap sale as deeply angering all true Russians.

Is the nations sense of pride truly so unworthy of attention that it can be sacrificed for a mere six or seven million dollar[s], the paper wrote.

In a letter to a friend in July 1867, Eduard de Stoeckl, the Russian envoy in Washington and chief negotiator of the sale, acknowledged: My treaty has met with strong opposition  but this stems from the fact that no one at home has any idea of the true condition of our colonies. It was simply a matter of selling them, or watching them being taken from.

The purchase of Alaska was viewed as Sewards Folly in the US. American Secretary of State, William H Seward, who negotiated the treaty, was mocked for spending the sum on a frozen wilderness.

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The New-York Daily Tribune dismissed the purchase as the nominal possession of impassable deserts of snow.

We may make a treaty with Russia, but we cannot make a treaty with the North Wind or the Snow King, its editorial read.

The US saw Alaskas worth in the late 1890s. Gold was discovered in the territory in 1896. Alaska became a state in 1959. In the 1950s and 60s, large oil reserves were found there. With this, it became one of USs most resource-rich territories.

Upset with the cheap sale, some fringe nationalists in Russia still call for reclaiming Alaska.

With inputs from agencies
Mahendra Prasad, a resident of Almora in Uttarakhand, has been arrested on charges of spying and passing sensitive information to Pakistans intelligence agency, ISI. He was employed as the manager of a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) guest house in Jaisalmer and was posted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range guest house, a high-security facility often visited by senior military officers, defence experts, and scientists

Officials said his arrest came after a long period of surveillance. Image: X/ANI

The manager of a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) guest house in Jaisalmer has been taken into custody for allegedly spying and sharing sensitive details with the Pakistani intelligence agency, ISI.

Mahendra Prasad, who hails from Almora in Uttarakhand, was serving as the manager of the DRDO guest house in the Chandan area of Jaisalmer. He was arrested on August 4.

ALSO READ | YouTuber, student and more: Who are the Pakistani spies arrested in India?

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Notably, he had been working at the guest house since 2008.

The arrest comes after a string of espionage-related cases reported across the country this year, following the major Operation Sindoor in early May.

So, who is the DRDO guest house manager now under arrest? How was he involved in spying?

Heres what we know:

Who is Mahendra Prasad? How was he spying for Pakistan?

The accused was posted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range guest house, a high-security location regularly visited by top defence experts, scientists and senior military officers

Officials said his arrest came after a long period of surveillance.

An initial check of his mobile phone showed the scale of information he had shared with Pakistani intelligence operatives.

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Mahendra Prasad, a DRDO contractual manager in Jaisalmers Chandhan field firing range, was arrested for allegedly sending sensitive military videos to a Pakistani handler. Footage of missile tests, weapons, and army movements was recovered from his phone. pic.twitter.com/DUoPVrBjLz  IANS (@ians_india) August 13, 2025

Sources told ThePrint that for the past five years, Prasad had been sending PDF files containing details of guests staying at the facility.

According to the report, these guest lists helped Pakistani operatives assess the nature of tests or projects taking place at the Pokhran range.

IG (Security) Vishnukant told The Times of India that the accused had been giving details about the visits of DRDO scientists and Indian Army officers to the Chandan Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer.

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He also passed on information about missile and other weapons testing, Vishnukant told the publication.

Important evidence of espionage has been found from his mobile and chats," officials said, adding that the leak may have been happening for a long time. The sensitivity of the leaked material and the duration of the breach are now being examined closely.

Located about 200 kilometres from the Pakistan border in Jaisalmer district, the Pokhran range is Indias main testing site for weapons and related facilities.

Prasad was taken in for detailed questioning by a Joint Interrogation Committee comprising officers from intelligence agencies and the Border Security Force, a source told ThePrint.

The report also said that Prasad was posted at the same DRDO guest house during Operation Sindoor, when Pakistani armed forces attacked Indian defence sites, including the Jaisalmer Air Force Station.

Security agencies, including state police, remain on alert for individuals suspected of sending confidential information to Pakistani operatives through communication apps or social media.

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ALSO READ | Who is Pakistans Madam N, who trapped Indian YouTubers arrested for spying?

Espionage-related arrests post Operation Sindoor

The arrest is part of a wider crackdown on espionage cases in the region.

Just days earlier, another alleged Pakistani spy, Shakoor Khan, a government employee with influential contacts, was also held in Jaisalmer. Agencies said important evidence of espionage" was recovered from his mobile phone.

Indian authorities began a nationwide operation against suspected Pakistani spies after the Pahalgam terror attack and recent military tensions between the two countries.

In May this year, more than 15 people were arrested from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and other states for allegedly spying for Pakistan and sharing sensitive Indian military information with Pakistani operatives.

Among those arrested was **Jyoti Malhotra**, a YouTuber with thousands of followers, taken into custody by Haryana Police in Hisar.

Others included Devendra Singh, a 25-year-old postgraduate student from Kaithal in Haryana, and Shahzad, a businessman from Rampur in Uttar Pradesh.

Later in May, the National Investigation Agency arrested Moti Ram Jat, a jawan of the Central Reserve Police Force. Officials said he had been passing important national security information to Pakistan intelligence officers since 2023.

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Soon after the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor early on May 7. Indian forces targeted terror facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, killing over 100 militants linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Following Indias strikes on these terror hubs, Pakistan carried out cross-border shelling, attempted drone attacks and engaged in air defence action.

In retaliation, Indian counterstrikes damaged Pakistans radar systems, communication centres and airfields at 11 key locations, including the Nur Khan air base.

On May 10, both countries agreed to stop all firing and military activity on land, in the air and at sea, with immediate effect.

With inputs from agencies
On this day in 1961, soldiers in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) began construction on the Berlin Wall  separating the communists backed by the Soviet Union from the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany).

Former US President Ronald Reagan looks susprised when he was handed a hammer and chisel to work on one of the last remnants of the Berlin Wall, September 12, 1990. File Image/Reuters

Today, August 13, is a historic day.

On this day in 1961, soldiers in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) began construction on the Berlin Wall  separating the communists backed by the Soviet Union from the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany).

Also on this day in 1997, South Park debuted on Comedy Central. The show by Trey Parker and Matt Stone was rude, crude and unforgettable and changed animation comedy forever.

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If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers ongoing series, History Today, will be your one-stop destination to explore key events.

Construction of Berlin Wall begins

The East German soldiers began building the wall shortly after midnight on August 13, 1961.

Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev had given Walter Ulbrich, the Communist leader of East Germany, the nod to begin the work. East Germany by now was essentially under the thumb of the Soviet Union.

East Germany had already sealed off its main border with West Germany in 1952. This was, as it were, the final brick in the wall. Soldiers worked overnight, putting up over 120 kilometres of barbed wire. Residents woke up to find themselves cut off from friends and loved ones.

The reason behind putting up this wall was to stop the flow of people from East Germany to West Germany. It is estimated that around 1000 people per day were leaving East Germany in search of opportunity in West Germany.

After the wall went up, just 5,000 people managed to cross over in nearly three decades. At least 100 were killed by East German border guards known as Volkspolizei.

West Germans applaud as East Berlin citizens travel through Checkpoint Charlie, at the Berlin Wall, at the border of West Berlin, November 10, 1989. File image/Reuters

By November 1989, East Germany was in chaos. Its long-time leader Erich Honecker had resigned the previous month. Massive protests were also ongoing and reforms were being demanded. The wall fell after East German border guards gave way in the face of a massive crowd. The iconic images that were captured that day remain instantly recognisable around the world. Eleven months later, Germany was reunified.

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South Park debuts

South Park, an animated show unlike any other, debuted on Comedy Central in 1997.

Set in a fictional Colorado mountain town of the same name, the series revolves around four young boys  Eric Cartman, Stanley Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, and Kenneth (Kenny) McCormick.

The show, which is known for its low-budget appearance, has revelled in mocking celebrities and sacred cows of American life over the years.

From Tom Cruise to the Royal Family, Prophet Muhammad, Jesus and Santa, no one has been off limits from Parker and Stone. Even those who worked on the show havent been safe. Isaac Hayes, who voiced the character of Chef, walked off the show in protest after it targeted Scientology.

South Park went after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2023.

The show has recently drawn the ire of President Donald Trump, who in a recent episode was depicted naked in bed with Satan.

This show hasnt been relevant for over 20 years and is hanging on by a thread with uninspired ideas in a desperate attempt for attention, White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said in the statement. President Trump has delivered on more promises in just six months than any other president in our countrys history  and no fourth-rate show can derail President Trumps hot streak.

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Parker, asked for his response at the San Diego Comic Con International deadpanned, Were terribly sorry. Parker and Stone, incidentally, also created the award-winning Broadway musical the Book of Mormon.

This Day, That Year

1521: The Aztec Empire falls after Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes captures Tenochtitlan (Mexico City).

1642: Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens discovers the southern polar cap of Mars.

1792: Marie Antoinette and other royals are imprisoned in France.

1899: Sir Alfred Hitchcock, one of the greatest movie directors of all time, is born.
Commentary

By Conrad Eder

Canada Post is bleeding taxpayers dry. In 2024 alone, it lost nearly $1.3 billion and saw revenues fall by $800 milliona staggering 12.2 per cent year-over-year decline. These grim figures forced a $1 billion taxpayer bailout in January.

And the crisis is far from over. Beginning in 2026, Canada Post itself projects it will need another $1 billion every year simply to survive.

This is not a temporary slump. It is a structural failure. Since 2018, Canada Post has posted cumulative losses of more than $3.8 billion. The message is clear: Canadians arent getting mailtheyre getting fleeced.

Yet despite overwhelming evidence of collapse, proposals to privatize the service continue to face resistance from those nostalgic for a bygone era. That nostalgia is costly. Every billion-dollar bailout is a billion dollars not spent on hospitals, schools and infrastructure. Imagine what $1 billion a year could mean for health care wait times, long-term care beds, or repairing crumbling bridges. Instead, Canadians are spending it to keep an outdated postal service on life support.

Critics of privatization argue that only a public entity can guarantee affordable, universal service. They warn that private operators would reduce access, raise prices and abandon rural Canada.

But the European experience tells a different story. Germanys Deutsche Post, privatized in 1995, expanded its services globally while maintaining affordable domestic delivery. The Netherlands PostNL streamlined operations and introduced innovative parcel services to meet the demands of online shopping. Austria Post invested heavily in automation and same-day delivery. In all three cases, universal service requirements were preserved, prices remained stable, and taxpayers were spared the endless drain of subsidies.

By contrast, Canada Posts outdated monopoly model is a straitjacket. It must deliver to every address, no matter the cost, while being forced to seek government approval for even modest changes. This bureaucracy means political considerations routinely trump business logic. While private competitors can adjust pricing, delivery models and technology overnight, Canada Post waits monthssometimes yearsfor permission to act.

As if structural flaws werent enough, labour instability has become another costly burden. A recent 32-day strike cost Canada Post more than $200 million.

While the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has every right to defend its members, it has consistently resisted reforms like flexible staffing and automated systems. These are precisely the changes needed to bring the service into the modern era. With taxpayer bailouts guaranteeing survival, CUPW faces little pressure to change course. Canada Post has become less of a postal service than a taxpayer-funded job protection scheme.

Former CEO Moya Greene understood this reality. After leaving Canada Post, she led the UKs Royal Mail through successful privatization. Her experience showed that public postal services can modernize without abandoning universal service. The lesson is simple: performance improves when failure is possible.

Critics warn about the dangers of the profit motive. But Canada Post already raises postage rates while continuing to post massive losses. Canadians are paying more and getting less. Profit, unlike politics, demands accountability. Companies that fail to deliver value lose customers. Crown corporations, shielded by bailouts, lose nothing.

Fixing Canada Post will take more than tinkering. Incremental reforms cannot solve a billion-dollar-a-year problem. Canada must end its monopoly, open the market and privatize the service. A privatized model can be designed to ensure continued universal delivery, just as in Europe, while giving operators the flexibility to innovate and compete.

Privatization is neither reckless nor radical. It is a proven solution to an unsustainable crisis. Canadians deserve more than excuses and nostalgia. They deserve a postal service that delivers, not one that delivers bills to taxpayers.

Conrad Eder is a policy analyst at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.
India or Bharat? What should the country be officially known as? This debate is not new. In fact, makers of the Constitution also struggled with the question. As we celebrate the 79th Independence Day, a look at the many terms associated with the nation

India, that is Bharat, shall be a union of states, reads Article 1 of the Constitution. India is perhaps one of the few countries that are identified with more than two names.

Besides India and Bharat, Hindustan is also used to refer to the nation. There are other ancient monikers by which the country that we know as India today was known.

As the country rings its 79th Independence Day on August 15, lets turn the pages of history to see how India got its many names.

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Indias ancient names

Scholars say Meluha was once associated with the Indian subcontinent. It was mentioned in the texts of ancient Mesopotamia in the third millennium BCE to allude to the Indus Valley Civilisation.

India was also known as Jambudvipa or the land of the Jamun trees. This name can be found in many Vedic texts and is used even today in some Southeast Asian countries to describe the Indian subcontinent.

Diana L Eck, an eminent Indologist, wrote in her book, India: A Sacred Geography: The Chinese traveller Fa-Hien describes a country (India) triangular in shape, broad in the north and narrow in the south, and he goes on to observe that peoples faces are of the same shape as the country.

Aryavarta is used in the Manusmriti to refer to the land occupied by the Indo-Aryans. This covers the area between the Himalayas in the north and the Vindhya mountain ranges in the south.

Jains believe the country was called earlier Nabhivarsa. King Nabhi was the father of Rishabhanatha (the first tirthankara) and grandfather of Bharata, geographer Anu Kapur wrote in her book, Mapping Place Names of India.

Bharat, Hindustan and India: A country with many names

Bharat, Bharata, or Bharatvarsha is said to be the earliest names recorded for India.

It can be traced back to the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata, which has King Bharata, a legendary emperor and the son of Dushyant and Shakuntala.

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Bharat was popularised in modern history due to its use in the freedom struggle in slogans like Bharat mata ki jai.

According to the Puranas, Bharata lies between the sea in the south and the abode of snow in the north.

Bharata is also thought be the mythical founder of the race. Social scientist Catherine Clementin-Ojha, wrote in her article, India, that is Bharat: One Country, Two Names, that Bharata refers to thesupraregional and subcontinental territory where the Brahmanical system of society prevails.

The name Hindustan is believed to have originated when Persians occupied the Indus valley in the seventh century BCE. Hindu was the Persianised version of the Sanskrit term Sindhu, or the Indus river, which traversed the land. The Persian suffix, stan, was added in the first century AD and it became Hindustan, as per an Indian Express report.

The Greeks knew about Hind from the Persians, but they transliterated it as Indus. When Macedonian ruler Alexander invaded India in the third century BCE, India was used to describe the region beyond the Indus.

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Historian Ian J Barrow, in his article From Hindustan to India: Naming change in changing names, wrote that in the mid-to-late eighteenth century, Hindustan often referred to the territories of the Mughal emperor, which comprised much of South Asia.

However, the British maps started mentioning India more by the late 18th century, and Hindustan stopped being used to identify the entire South Asia.

How independent India was named

The debate that comes up now and then about the countrys name also arose after India gained freedom from the British in August 1947.

The drafting committee set up under the chairmanship of Dr BR Ambedkar to formulate India's Constitution discussed the section name and territory of the Union on September 17, 1949.

Hari Vishnu Kamath, a member of the Forward Bloc, argued that the first article should be Bharat, or in the English language, India, shall be and such, replacing the phrase India, that is Bharat.

Seth Govind Das, who represented the Central Provinces and Berar, was in favour of: Bharat known as India also in foreign countries.

Hargovind Pant, representing the hill districts of the United Provinces, asserted that the people of Northern India wanted Bharatvarsha and nothing else.

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In view of Indias linguistic and cultural diversity, the Constituent Assembly decided to use both Bharat and India, recognising the significance of the names.

Often, as I wandered from meeting to meeting, I spoke to my audience of this India of ours, of Hindustan and of Bharata, the old Sanskrit name derived from the mythical founder of the race, Indias first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, wrote in his 1946 book The Discovery of India.

The debate about the countrys name still grabs headlines, with some wanting to do away with the term India, seeing it as a reminder of the colonial past. But historians dismiss it.

The British have got nothing to do with the name India It is part of our history from the fifth Century BC. The Greeks used it, the Persians used it. India was identified as a country besides the Indus river. It came from there, historian S Irfan Habib told PTI.

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Many historical sources, Megasthenes (Greek historian) and so many travellers referred to it. So, like Bharat, India is also part of our history, he added.

With inputs from agencies
Iran has reportedly moved its remaining nuclear scientists into hiding after Israel killed at least 14 researchers during the 12-day conflict in June. More than 15 of them have left their homes and universities and have been moved to undisclosed locations. This step was taken following Israels targeted killings of several Iranian nuclear researchers during the recent conflict

Pictures of Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists and others killed in Israeli strikes are displayed in southern Tehran, Iran. WANA via Reuters/File Photo

Iran has reportedly moved its remaining nuclear scientists into hiding after Israel killed at least 14 researchers during the 12-day conflict in June.

According to a report by the UKs The Telegraph, over 15 scientists are no longer living in their homes or working at universities and have been relocated to undisclosed places.

Meanwhile, Israeli experts claim that a new group of Iranian nuclear scientists is ready to continue the work of those killed, describing them as dead men walking.

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So, why has Iran chosen to hide its remaining scientists? What is Israel saying?

Heres a look:

Why did Iran move top nuclear scientists to safe houses?

Simply put, this was done because of Israels targeted killings of several Iranian nuclear researchers during the recent 12-day conflict.

A senior Iranian official told The Telegraph that more than 15 top scientists who survived have left their homes and universities to hide in secure locations in Tehran or along the northern coast.

The report says it has seen the names of over 15 of these surviving scientists on a list of about 100 held by Israel. According to Israeli claims, those on the list must now decide whether to continue their work and risk more attacks or leave the field altogether.

This picture shows the destruction at Evin prison after Israeli air strikes the previous month, in Tehran, on July 1, 2025. AFP/File Photo

Most of them are no longer living in their houses  they are either moved to safe houses in Tehran or to the north, the Iranian official told The Telegraph.

He further said: Those who were teaching at universities are replaced with people who have no connection with the nuclear programme.

The move comes amid fears, fuelled by Israeli briefings, that more assassinations may take place. It also follows Irans execution this week of one of its own nuclear scientists.

Roozbeh Vadi, who had worked at one of Irans most sensitive nuclear sites, was hanged on Wednesday over allegations that he passed information to Israel, helping in the killing of his colleagues during the June conflict, the report said.

What is Israel saying?

Israeli experts believe a new generation of Iranian nuclear scientists is ready to take over the work of those killed, describing them as dead men walking despite tighter security measures such as safe houses and round-the-clock protection.

According to them, Iran has designed its nuclear research programme so that each key figure has at least one deputy, working in groups of two or three to ensure the work continues if someone is targeted.

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Israeli sources told The Telegraph they suspect some of the surviving scientists have stepped into the roles of their slain colleagues in Irans nuclear weaponisation programme at the Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research, or SPND. These include experts in explosives, neutron physics and warhead design.

While the eliminated scientists focused more on warhead design, the expertise in delivery systems makes those who remain equally strategic targets for Israel, as Israels June 2025 strikes also targeted ballistic missile infrastructure, Israeli intelligence and defence analyst Ronen Solomon told the publication.

Danny Citrinowicz, former head of the Iranian strategic desk in Israeli Defense Intelligence, said the remaining scientists face a clear choice.

Those who are left will be at the forefront of any Iranian attempt to reach a nuclear bomb, hence they will automatically become targets for Israel, as Israel has shown in the past. I have no doubt about it. Any scientist who deals with the nuclear issue will be eliminated or will be threatened with elimination, Citrinowicz told the publication.

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Iran, however, has consistently denied running a nuclear weapons programme, insisting its nuclear work is purely for civilian purposes.

The move comes amid fears, fuelled by Israeli briefings, that more assassinations may take place. Reuters/File Photo

What happened in June 2025?

At least 14 Iranian nuclear scientists were killed in targeted attacks by Israel.

According to the Israeli military, nine of them died in the first wave of strikes on June 13. They were described as having decades of accumulated experience in the development of nuclear weapons and included experts in chemistry, materials, explosives and physics.

Israels ambassador to France, Joshua Zarka, told the Associated Press that the scientists were targeted not because of the fact that they knew physics, but because of the fight that they were personally involved in, the creation and the fabrication and the production of (a) nuclear weapon.

Experts say that decades of Iranian work on nuclear energy, and what Western powers claim is nuclear weapons development, has left the country with a deep pool of knowledge and trained scientists who could continue any efforts to produce warheads for Irans ballistic missiles.

With inputs from agencies

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The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a draft for public consultation focused on the Express Entry system. Ottawa is said to be considering creating new categories to make Express Entry easier for some applicants, which may benefit Indians

The proposal, which was put up on the Canadian governments website, is inviting feedback from the public. Reuters

Is Canada planning to make it easier for Indians to apply via its Express Entry programme?

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a draft for public consultation focused on the Express Entry system. Ottawa is said to be considering creating new categories to make Express Entry easier for some applicants  which may benefit Indians.

The proposal, which was put up on the Canadian governments website, is inviting feedback from the public. It will remain open for input till September 3. No further details have been announced. The new categories, if approved, would open in 2026.

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But what is it? What do we know the new draft?

Lets take a closer look

What is Express Entry?

It is an online system used by Canadas federal government to attract skilled workers. A way for foreigners to gain permanent residency in Canada, it is said to be popular with Indians.

The Canadian government uses an Express Entry draw to decide who receives an invitation to apply for permanent residency through the programme. These are known as invitations to apply (ITAs).

The government invites candidates who meet the specific criteria for a certain category. This is in separate from general draws and program-specific rounds such as those for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

It selects the highest-ranking candidates from the applications received How you rank as a candidate is based on a number of different factors.

Canada under Prime Minister Mike Carney has vowed to resolve the labour shortage of skilled workers. AP

It does so by using a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which takes into account, among other factors marital status, age, education, whether you have a degree, diploma or certificate from a Canadian University and if you have passed English and French language tests in the past two years.

The Canadian government sends out invitations to apply under this scheme in several rounds. An applicants CRS score must be more than the minimum needed points score of their particular round. Cut-off scores may differ with each round. Those who are chosen have 60 days to apply.

One can determine if one is eligible for Express Entry by filling out a questionnaire on the website. Those who are eligible can create an application online and submit the relevant documents.

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The fee for Express Entry is around $1,100 (Rs 96,000) for applicants and another $1,100 (Rs 96,000) for their spouses. Applicants must pay $188 (Rs 16,500) for dependent children. The time taken to process an application varies as per the category one applies under.

Canada in issued 98,903 ITAs via Express Entry in 2024, 110,266 in 2023 and 45,115 in 2022. The peak came in 2021, when it issued 114,431 ITAs.

What do we know about the new draft?

The new draft proposes creating an entirely new section  the Leadership and Innovation category.

This would allow senior managers, researchers, and scientists to gain pathway to permanent residency. It defines senior managers as highly skilled workers who oversee the operations of a company or organisation and who lead a team of employees.

The IRCC said such leaders could inject fresh perspectives, accelerate digital transformation, boost productivity, and help organisations meet strategic goals.

The report says researchers and scientists could enhance productivity and performance and stimulate economic growth. However, it did not specify What type of scientists or researchers would be given preference.

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The influx of workers would thereby boost Canadas competitiveness with other nations, the government says.

The move also seek to address the shortages in Canadas labour market and acknowledges its ongoing struggle to find skilled workers for healthcare, trades such as construction, education, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, and agriculture.

Canada has also suggested attracting highly skilled military recruits from allied nations under a new category. They would play a role in supporting the Canadian Armed Forces.

Canada in May for the first time sent out 1,000 Express Entry invitations to eligible foreigners under a new Education Occupations category. This category, which was added in February, was weighed in favour of those with work experience in Canada. It was done in order to bolster the ranks of educational professionals in Canada  which the country is falling severely short on.

With inputs from agencies
The Supreme Courts order to remove stray dogs from the streets of Delhi and NCR has sparked major outrage in the country. BJP leader and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi has called the directive impractical and claimed that when Paris got rid of its strays in the 1880s, it had to face a rodent problem. Heres what happened

A local resident walks her dogs past War propoganda posters in the Montmarte district in Paris on March 25, 2020. File Photo/Reuters

The Supreme Courts recent ruling on the immediate removal of stray dogs from Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has sparked a huge debate in the country. It has pitted public safety advocates against dog lovers who see the order as cruel.

The directive has garnered reactions from various quarters, including politicians. While some have hailed the top courts directive, others found it inhumane. Former Union minister and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi has described the order as impractical, financially unviable and potentially harmful to the regions ecological balance.

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She also brought up the example of Paris, which she said faced a rat problem after getting rid of the canines from its streets in the 1880s.

Lets take a closer look.

Supreme Courts stray dogs order

The Supreme Court on Monday (August 11) ordered the Delhi government, civic bodies and authorities of Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad to start picking up stray dogs and relocate them to shelters.

A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan said that dog shelters have to be set up to accommodate around 5,000 stray dogs, which should be sterilised and immunised.

The apex court gave authorities eight weeks to create the facilities and install CCTV monitoring to ensure no animals are released back onto the streets.

It also warned that any person or organisation that obstructs the move will face strict action. The bench also refused to consider petitions from dog lovers or any other party on the issue.

The order came amid a rise in dog bites and cases of rabies. However, it has divided the country, with many animal lovers criticising the ruling.

Both Gandhi families have spoken against the Supreme Courts directive to remove the stray dogs.

The SCs directive to remove all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR is a step back from decades of humane, science-backed policy. These voiceless souls are not problems to be erased. Shelters, sterilisation, vaccination & community care can keep streets safe - without cruelty. Blanket removals are cruel, shortsighted, and strip us of compassion, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi wrote in a post on X.

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He added, We can ensure public safety and animal welfare go hand in hand.

The SCs directive to remove all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR is a step back from decades of humane, science-backed policy.



These voiceless souls are not problems to be erased.

Shelters, sterilisation, vaccination & community care can keep streets safe - without cruelty.



Blanket  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 12, 2025

Animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi warned that removing stray dogs from the streets will create new problems.

Within 48 hours, three lakh dogs will come from Ghaziabad, Faridabad, because theres food here in Delhi. And once you remove the dogs, monkeys will come on the ground Ive seen this happen at my own house, she reportedly said.

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Referring to 1880s Paris, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader stated, When they removed dogs and cats, the city was overrun with rats. She said dogs were rodent control animals.

What happened in the 1800s Paris?

In the 1800s, stray dogs were frowned upon in Paris, seen as transmitters of rabies, fleas, and dirt.

Paris had a large number of strays at the time, with the administration considering them a threat to cleanliness, health, and safety.

According to a research paper titled Stray Dogs and the Making of Modern Paris, shared by The University of Liverpool Repository, in 1883, pharmacist Emile Capron backed the removal of stray dogs from the streets of Paris, claiming that the infinite number of these awful mutts spread rabies. She also blamed them for scaring horses and pedestrians, which resulted in traffic accidents.

As Caprons remarks suggest, many commentators treated strays as dangerously mobile nuisances that hindered the movement, and threatened the health, of the citys productive human and nonhuman inhabitants. Strays contributed to the sense that Paris was a pathological city plagued by crime, filth, and insecurity, and elite commentators treated them as members of the citys criminal, dirty and uprooted dangerous classes," Chris Pearson wrote in the paper.

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To ensure public safety, many stray dogs were allegedly culled. As Paris moved towards becoming modern, Parisian public hygienists and authorities turned strays into a problem that they would solve to make the city safe, clean and modern, Pearson wrote.

As per some accounts, the killing of strays led to a surge in the population of rats in the French city.

ALSO READ: With nearly 10 lakh stray dogs, how will Delhi implement the Supreme Court order?

When Parisians ate dogs, cats, rats

During the Siege of Paris (the Franco-Prussian War between 1870-1871), the allied German forces surrounded Paris and cut off most of the food shipments to the French capital.

Amid food shortages, Parisians resorted to eating rats, cats, dogs, and even horses.

On November 12, 1870, a stall on the Rue Rochechouart street sold several animals. On the right side of the stall was several large dogs, neatly dressed  next to these are several large cats, also very neatly dressed  On the left of the stall there is a dozen or more of rats stretched upon a tray, and a young woman, half veiled, is timidly approaching them with a little girl at her side. She wishes to inquire the price of the rats, and, if she has money enough, to purchase one, Robert Lowry Sibbet, an American doctor who was trapped in Paris during the siege, wrote in the book The Siege of Paris by an American Eye-Witness, published in 1892.

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With inputs from agencies
On Tuesday, a Seoul court ordered the arrest of Kim Keon-hee, wife of ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, over charges, including Deutsch Motors stock manipulation, illegal political funding, and accepting luxury gifts such as a $43,000 (Rs 37.68 lakh) pendant. She denies all charges

South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon-hee, wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, arrives at a court to attend a hearing to review her arrest warrant requested by special prosecutors, in Seoul, South Korea, August 12, 2025. Pool Photo via AP

The simultaneous imprisonment of both a former president and his spouse marks rare chapter in South Koreas political history.

Kim Keon-hee, the 52-year-old wife of ousted president Yoon Suk-yeol, was formally arrested after a late-night ruling by the Seoul Central District Court on Tuesday.

The court authorised the special prosecutors request for an arrest warrant, citing concerns about evidence destruction as the justification for placing her in detention.

The arrest follows a sweeping set of investigations initiated by liberal President Lee Jae-yung shortly after his election in June.

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These inquiries target alleged misconduct during Yoons presidency, which ended abruptly in April when he was removed from office by the Constitutional Court after his impeachment.

Yoons downfall stemmed from his short-lived attempt to impose martial law in December last year  a decision that not only collapsed within hours but also triggered political outrage and set off a series of legal troubles for both him and his wife.

While Yoons imprisonment is linked to charges of insurrection and abuse of power, Kim faces multiple criminal accusations spanning bribery, stock manipulation, and unlawful political influence.

She now occupies a cell in Seouls Nambu Detention Centre, while her husband remains in custody at Seoul Detention Centre.

How it came to Kim Keon-hee being arrested

On the day of the ruling, Kim arrived at the court dressed in a black suit. She bowed to reporters gathered outside but did not respond to questions.

Inside the courtroom, the proceedings lasted over four hours as prosecutors presented evidence and argued that she posed a serious risk of destroying documents or interfering with witnesses.

Judge Jeong Jae-wook accepted these arguments, noting that the potential for evidence tampering warranted her detention. The decision followed earlier questioning by investigators, including a seven-hour interrogation session the previous week.

Kim did speak briefly to journalists after that earlier questioning, offering a general apology for causing public concern but adding that she saw herself as someone insignificant.

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South Koreas former first lady Kim Keon-hee, wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, arrives at a court to attend a hearing to review her arrest warrant requested by special prosecutors at the Seoul Central District Court, in Seoul, South Korea, August 12, 2025. Pool via Reuters

Kim expressed discontent about the scope of the charges, telling the judge she was upset that even issues from before my marriage keep being brought up.

Her legal representatives have consistently denied all charges, labelling many of the allegations as unfounded.

Song Eon-seok, floor leader of the People Power Party, stated on YTN radio, I would like to express that I hope the special prosecutors investigation proceeds normally and fairly in accordance with the law and regulations.

The charges against Kim Keon-hee: Explained

Allegations of stock manipulation

One of the most serious allegations against Kim involves claims that she participated in a stock price manipulation scheme tied to Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealership in South Korea.

Prosecutors allege that between 2009 and 2012, Kim conspired with others to artificially raise the companys share prices, generating profits of more than 800 million won (428,000).

These accusations are not new  rumours and media reports about her potential involvement in financial irregularities had circulated during Yoons presidency, but formal legal action was repeatedly blocked while he was in office.

Yoon had dismissed calls for an investigation as political attacks from opponents.

The new administration has reopened the case, and prosecutors believe they now have sufficient evidence to press charges.

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Claims of unlawful political influence

Another significant charge is that Kim and her husband exerted improper pressure on the conservative People Power Party to secure the nomination of a specific candidate during a 2022 legislative by-election.

This effort was allegedly coordinated at the request of political broker Myung Tae-kyun.

Myung himself faces accusations of running manipulated opinion surveys for Yoon during the presidential primaries  surveys that may have bolstered Yoons chances of winning the nomination.

Prosecutors say these free polling services, valued at over 270 million won, amounted to illegal political funding.

The allegation links Kim directly to a broader network of political interference that investigators claim compromised the fairness of party candidate selection processes.

Bribery and luxury gifts

Prosecutors also accuse Kim of accepting high-value gifts from various sources in exchange for providing favourable treatment in business or political matters.

Among the items under scrutiny is Van Cleef & Arpels Snowflake Pendant (18 karat white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds) reportedly worth over 60 million won ($43,000), which Kim wore while accompanying Yoon to a Nato summit in 2022.

The pendant was not declared in the couples legally required financial disclosure. According to the prosecution, it was supplied by a domestic construction company seeking to secure advantages.

The companys chairman is alleged to have purchased the item, and investigators are examining whether its gifting was connected to the appointment of the chairmans son-in-law as chief of staff to then-Prime Minister Han Duck-soo shortly before the summit.

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Kim has rejected the claim, telling prosecutors that the necklace was a fake bought 20 years ago in Hong Kong. The prosecution, however, maintains that the piece is genuine.

In addition to the pendant, Kim is accused of receiving two Chanel handbags worth a combined 20 million won (10,700) and a diamond necklace from members of the Unification Church.

Investigators allege these gifts were arranged through a shaman intermediary and tied to the churchs interest in development projects in Cambodia.

Other corruption-linked investigations

Earlier on the day of her arrest, one of her close associates was detained after returning from Vietnam.

Prosecutors suspect this individual used their connection to Kim to obtain millions of dollars in investment for a financially struggling company.

Investigators have also conducted raids on multiple business premises, including a construction firm believed to be linked to some of the luxury gifts.

In one instance, they are investigating whether a $43,000 necklace worn by Kim on a European trip in 2022 was connected to political favours. Kim has maintained that the jewellery was not authentic.

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What next for Kim Keon-hee & Yoon Suk-yeol?

Kims arrest comes as part of a trio of major special prosecutor cases approved by President Lee Jae Myung in June.

The first involves Yoons martial law declaration in December 2024, which lasted only a few hours before being overturned by lawmakers who broke through a military blockade to hold an emergency vote.

The second focuses on the allegations against Kim.

The third examines the drowning of a marine during a flood rescue in 2023, which critics allege Yoons administration attempted to cover up.

Yoons martial law decision was made during escalating disputes with liberal lawmakers, whom he described as anti-state actors obstructing his agenda.

Some of his opponents have argued that his drastic action may have been partly influenced by growing scrutiny of his wifes alleged misconduct.

Following the failed martial law attempt, Yoon was impeached on December 14, 2024, and formally removed from office by the Constitutional Court in April 2025.

After a brief release in March, he was rearrested in July and now faces trial on rebellion and other charges. He has consistently refused to attend hearings or answer prosecutors questions, including those concerning Kims activities.

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While the country has a history of prosecuting former leaders, the incarceration of both a former president and a former first lady at the same time is without precedent.

Kims career before entering politics was in the arts sector, where she ran an exhibition company.

During Yoons presidency, she was seen by some observers as an influential figure behind the scenes.

However, her time as first lady was marked by controversies, including the Dior bag scandal  a separate incident that prosecutors are now revisiting.

In recent months, her academic credentials also came under fire, with both her masters and doctoral degrees revoked following findings of plagiarism.

Under South Korean law, prosecutors can detain Kim for up to 20 days before formally filing charges. During this period, investigators are expected to conduct further interrogations and review additional evidence.

If indicted, she could face multiple years in prison if found guilty on charges ranging from financial crimes to bribery and political interference.

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The special prosecutors team, led by Min Joong-ki, has pledged to conduct a thorough inquiry in accordance with the law.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on August 15 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. The choice followed weeks of planning, limited venue availability and strict security needs. The base, steeped in Cold War history, offers unmatched security  and symbolic significance as land once owned by Russia

US Air Force F-22 Raptor fighters participate in a close formation taxi, known as an Elephant Walk during the two-week Polar Force exercise at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, US, March 26, 2019. File Image/US Air Force via Reuters

United States President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet on Friday (August 15, 2025) at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

The event will mark the first in-person meeting between the leaders of the two nations in more than five years, and the first visit by a Russian head of state to Anchorage.

How the venue for the Alaska summit was chosen

Selecting a host site for the summit proved far more difficult than usual for a meeting of this scale. August is peak tourist season in Alaska, which left many of the states larger hotels, convention spaces, and event venues fully booked.

In addition, the security requirements for hosting a US-Russia summit are extensive. The venue must provide secure meeting areas, space for motorcade operations, controlled airspace, and infrastructure for sensitive communications.

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Officials examined possibilities in Alaskas capital, Juneau, as well as Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, most civilian locations, including several large Anchorage facilities, either lacked the capacity to be sealed off from the public or could not meet the necessary technical and security specifications.

When news of the planned meeting began circulating, some prominent Alaskans reportedly contacted Trumps allies offering to host the leaders at their private homes.

These offers, while well-meaning, did not meet the required standards for accreditation systems, layered physical security, and dedicated press and support areas.

By early this week, organisers concluded that Anchorage  Alaskas largest city and a key transport hub  was the only city capable of hosting the event.

Within Anchorage, only Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson met every requirement.

Despite initial reservations in the White House about the optics of holding the meeting on a US military installation, the sites readiness and capabilities left no other feasible choice.

Why Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson fits the bill

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) is a combined installation of the US Air Forces Elmendorf Air Force Base and the US Armys Fort Richardson.

Situated on the northern edge of Anchorage, it is the largest military base in Alaska and home to more than 32,000 people  roughly 10 per cent of the citys population.

The base is home to the 3rd Wing of the Pacific Air Forces and houses advanced aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor, described by the US Air Force as unmatched by any known or projected fighter.

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It also hosts the headquarters of Alaskan Command (ALCOM), the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Region, and the Eleventh Air Force.

For the summit, JBER offers controlled airspace, fortified meeting areas, and the ability to secure perimeter access points.

The installation has dedicated space for motorcade staging, press operations, and delegation management  all critical for a meeting involving two major world powers.

The bases location carries historic significance as well. The United States purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire in 1867, and the two nations remain geographically close.

Alaskas Little Diomede Island lies less than three miles from Russias Big Diomede Island across the Bering Strait.

During the Cold War, Elmendorf was considered a vital strategic outpost in the defence of the US against the Soviet Union, according to historical records from the US Library of Congress.

Despite this proximity, Putin will be the first Russian president to set foot in Anchorage.

Behind the location decision: from Europe to Alaska

The decision to hold the summit in Alaska followed extensive discussions between Washington and Moscow. International political realities played a key role in narrowing the list of options.

Since the International Criminal Court issued a war crimes warrant for Putin in 2023, potential European venues  even traditional meeting cities such as Vienna and Geneva  were deemed politically sensitive or impractical.

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Russia ruled out European destinations and proposed alternative options, including the United Arab Emirates. Putin himself reportedly described the UAE as entirely suitable for the talks.

However, US officials were reluctant to arrange another long-distance trip to West Asia so soon after Trumps visit there in May.

Other possibilities included Hungary, whose Prime Minister Viktor Orban has maintained strong ties with both Trump and Putin. In the end, the choice came down to hosting the meeting either in Hungary or the United States, sources told CNN.

American officials were reportedly both pleased and somewhat surprised when Putin agreed to travel to US soil.

Trump publicly welcomed the decision, saying, I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or even a third-party place.

Not everyone viewed the decision as a win for the US. Former national security adviser John Bolton remarked, The only better place for Putin than Alaska would be if the summit were being held in Moscow. So, the initial setup, I think, is a great victory for Putin.

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What Elmendorf Air Force Bases history tells us

Construction of Elmendorf Field began on June 8, 1940, as the US sought to establish a permanent military airfield near Anchorage.

The first Air Corps personnel arrived on August 12, 1940.

The installations name and operational structure changed several times in the following years: it became Elmendorf Army Air Base in June 1942 and later Elmendorf Air Force Base in March 1948.

The bases runways were completed in January 1941, extended in 1945, and further upgraded with concrete aprons in 1957.

Following World War II, Elmendorf played an increasingly important role in North American defense as relations between the United States and the Soviet Union deteriorated into the Cold War.

In 2010, Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson were merged to form Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson as part of a nationwide base realignment initiative.

Over the decades, the base has hosted multiple US presidents. During his first term, Trump visited several times, as did Barack Obama and Joe Biden in their presidencies.

In 2015, Obama became the first US president to travel north of the Arctic Circle during his Alaska visit.

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What will happen at the Alaska summit

Fridays meeting is expected to include a one-on-one discussion between Trump and Putin, attended only by translators, in addition to larger-format talks with delegations.

The White House has described the event as a listening session, with Trump himself calling it a feel-out meeting.

The president feels like, look, Ive got to look at this guy across the table. I need to see him face to face. I need to hear him one-on-one. I need to make an assessment by looking at him, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained in a Tuesday interview with American radio host Sid Rosenberg.

Trump has had five known phone calls with Putin this year but has said that an in-person encounter is essential to assess the Russian leaders intentions.

Ahead of the summit, Trump will take part in a virtual meeting with European leaders and Ukraine, arranged by Germany, to gather their perspectives.

People wearing head cut-outs depicting US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin jump during a protest at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, February 20, 2025. File Image/Reuters

He has also promised to speak with them again ahead of the talks, including a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy will not attend the Alaska meeting, ruling out a possible trilateral session.

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The symbolism of meeting in Alaska is not lost on either side.

With inputs from agencies
US President Donald Trump says Washington, DCs homicide rate is higher than the worst places on Earth, with the White House citing cities like Islamabad and Bogota. But the numbers tell a different story. While the US capitals rate is high, recent data shows its falling  and far from the worlds highest

FBI agents and Secret Service Police officers patrol the Navy Yard neighbourhood, after US President Donald Trump's announcement to deploy the National Guard and federalise the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC, US, August 12, 2025. File Image/Reuters

United States President Donald Trump has claimed that Washington DCs murder rate surpasses that of several major international capitals and is among the highest in the world.

Speaking at a Monday press conference, Trump unveiled a plan to place the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control and to deploy 800 National Guard troops to the US capital.

Framing the intervention as a decisive step to restore safety, Trump said the citys rate of violent crime made it comparable to the worst places on Earth.

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Displaying charts that compared Washington DCs murder rate to cities worldwide, he declared: The murder rate in Washington today is higher than that of Bogota, Colombia; Mexico City, or some of the places that you hear about as being the worst places on Earth. Its much higher.

Trump held up a chart that read DC: 41 per 100,000 and added: No.1 that we can find anywhere in the world. Other cities are pretty bad, but theyre not as bad as that.

He also claimed Washingtons murder rate was above those in Brasilia, Panama City, and San Jose, saying, All is double or triple, so you want to live in places like that? I dont think so.

The announcement came alongside an executive order invoking provisions of the Home Rule Act, allowing the president to assume direct oversight of the citys police in what he called a crime emergency.

Trump said the measure was necessary because of rising violence in the capital and that his administration aimed to liberate Washington from what he portrayed as out-of-control crime.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser strongly objected to the move, calling it alarming and unprecedented.

Speaking to reporters, she said she would not minimise the intrusion on the autonomy of the city.

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Bowser maintained that the local government continues to operate in a way that makes citizens proud and pointed out that nothing has changed in the Metropolitan Police Departments organisational chart despite the executive order.

She has met with US Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been delegated authority by Trump to coordinate with city officials.

Trumps order also builds on his authority over the DC National Guard, which consists of around 2,700 personnel who report directly to the president rather than to local officials, unlike their counterparts in US states.

Dissecting the numbers behind Trumps claim

The data displayed by Trump at the press conference was first aired on Fox News The Will Cain Show last week.

However, parts of it were based on Washingtons 2023 homicide rate rather than the most recent available figures.

Troops load boxes of rifle ammunition at the District of Columbia National Guard Headquarters as US President Donald Trump implements his order to use federal law enforcement and the National Guard to expel homeless people and rid the nations capital of violent crime, in Washington DC, US. File Image/AP

In 2023, the district recorded 274 murders, translating to a homicide rate of 39.4 per 100,000 residents. While this was the citys highest rate in two decades, it was not the highest ever recorded.

Rates in the 1990s and early 2000s were significantly higher. Nor was it the worst in the world.

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According to data from the Brazilian nonprofit Igarape Institute, at least 49 cities globally had higher murder rates that year. Among capital cities, Cape Town, Kingston, and Caracas all surpassed Washingtons rate.

The White House posted a list that include Bogota (15.1 per 100,000), Mexico City (10.6), Islamabad (9.2), Ottawa (2.17), Paris (1.64), Delhi (1.49) and London (1.1).

Image Credit: X/PressSec

Trump compared Washingtons homicide numbers with Bogota (15.1), Panama City (15), San Jose (13), Mexico City (10), Lima (7.7), and Brasilia (6.8), citing figures from national statistical agencies and city governments.

These comparisons are broadly accurate for 2023 and 2024, but experts note that homicide is only one measure of safety and that such cross-national comparisons have limitations due to variations in reporting standards and urban boundaries.

Comparing Washington DC to much larger international cities with populations in the millions is not ideal.

What Washington DC crime trends reveal

The sharp rise in murders in 2023 made Washington one of the most dangerous US cities that year, but official figures show a substantial decline since then.

In 2024, the homicide rate dropped to 27.3 per 100,000 people  a 35 per cent decrease in violent crime according to the US Department of Justice, marking the lowest level in more than three decades.

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Metropolitan Police Department data indicates the downward trend has continued in 2025.

As of August 11, the city had reported 99 homicides, compared with 112 during the same period in 2024  a 12 per cent year-on-year drop. Federal statistics also show violent crime overall has fallen 26 per cent in the first seven months of this year compared with the same period last year.

However, there are discrepancies between local and federal data. The MPD reported a 35 per cent fall in violent crime for 2024, while FBI data showed a more modest 9 per cent drop.

Both sets of figures point to a reduction, though they differ on the scale of the decline.

People display signs as people protest at Dupont Circle after US President Donald Trump announced he would deploy the National Guard to the nations capital and place DCs Metropolitan Police Department under federal control, in Washington, DC, US. File Image/Reuters

While homicides have been trending down, other violent crime categories have drawn political attention.

Trump highlighted individual cases during his press conference, including the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old congressional intern caught in crossfire and the wounding of a 19-year-old former Department of Government Efficiency employee during an alleged attempted carjacking.

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He claimed that the number of carjackings has more than tripled in the past five years. Official MPD records show 189 carjacking incidents so far in 2025, down from 300 during the same period in 2024.

Data from the Council on Criminal Justice indicates that carjackings rose sharply after 2020 and peaked in June 2023 with 140 incidents reported in a single month.

Robbery has also seen a significant drop this year, falling 28 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

One policy response has been the imposition of a citywide curfew since July for individuals under the age of 17, in effect between 11 pm and 6 am.

This measure aims to reduce juvenile crime, which has historically risen during summer months and is often linked to spikes in offences such as carjacking.

Where Washington DC stands in the US

Although Trump suggested Washington might have the highest homicide rate globally, data shows it is not even the highest in the United States.

The February 2024 Rochester Institute of Technology report ranked the district fourth among US cities, behind St. Louis, New Orleans, and Detroit.

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Globally, Washingtons 2023 homicide rate was lower than those in dozens of cities, particularly in Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

However, the districts rate did exceed those of several major capitals in 2023 and 2024, including the Latin American capitals Trump cited.

Fox also noted that homicide rates in some countries may be underreported or inconsistent due to differences in law enforcement capacity and statistical accuracy, complicating direct comparisons.

Bowser has pointed out the citys recent gains, highlighting the long-term decline in violent crime and the improvements made since the 2023 spike.

Trump and the DC Police Union, meanwhile, have questioned the reliability of the MPDs statistics, noting the difference between local and FBI data sets.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
Donald Trump held a call with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, on Thursday. This comes a day ahead of the US presidents meeting with Russias Vladimir Putin. Heres what we know so far

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are set to meet in Alaska on Friday (August 15)  the first meeting between the leaders of Russia and the United States in years.

Ahead of his summit with Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump has had a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders.

Trump and Putin are set to meet in Alaska on Friday (August 15)  the first meeting between the leaders of Russia and the United States in years. Putin previously met Joe Biden in 2022.

The call comes in the backdrop of the White House reportedly pushing a ceasefire plan that involved Ukraine giving up the Donbas in exchange for a ceasefire. Zelenskyy has dismissed such a plan outright and European leaders have said that no talks about territory exchanging hands can occur without the involvement of Ukraine.

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But what happened during the call? What do we know?

Lets take a closer look

European leaders push Trump to clarify position

The European leaders during the call pushed Trump to clarify his position with Russia. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said European nations doing everything possible to help set the agenda for the summit in Alaska.

Merz said Ukraine needed to be involved in peace talks and getting the ceasefire was a first step. He said the Europe and the US world have to exert even more pressure on Putin if there is no ceasefire agreement.

French President Emmanuel Macron said any talks of territorial exchange must only be discussed with Ukraine. Trump has previously said that the Russia and Ukraine could arrive at a piece deal via a land swap. Russia currently controls about 20 per cent of Ukrainian territory.

The American will is to obtain a ceasefire, Macron said. The exchange with President Trump allowed him to declare his intentions for the meeting on the 15 August and allowed us to very clearly explain our expectations.

Macron said that it is a good thing that Washington and Moscow are talking but added that Europe needs to be heard on issues that impact the entire continent.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said that the allies are united. AP

We have reiterated until there is a durable peace, we must maintain support for Ukraine, Macron said And by we, I mean Europeans and Americans.

Macron said the leaders on the call are united and that the US president hopes to achieve a ceasefire. Macron says leaders were very clear that any decisions on territory can only be negotiated with Zelenskyy.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the call said international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal. A spokesperson for Starmer after the call described his support for Ukraine as unwavering.

All leaders agreed this week marks an important moment for the future of Ukraine". The spokesperson said the European leaders on the call thanked Trump for his efforts in bringing Putin to the table in pursuit of a ceasefire to end to the ongoing bloodshed Europe and the US will continue to work for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, the statement added.

Putin is bluffing

Zelenskyy, speaking to the media in the aftermath of the call, claimed the Russian president was bluffing. Putin is bluffing, hes trying to trying to push all over the front line", Zelenskyy said. He added that Russia is feigning that it can take over Ukraine.

Zelenskyy said he told Trump and European leaders that the Russian strongman doesnt want peace.

He added that they completely understood his position. Zelenskyy said there should be a ceasefire first, then security guarantees  real security guarantees.

Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy said he told Donald Trump and European leaders that the Vladimir Putin doesnt want peace

He added that Russia should be further sanctioned if it refuses to accept a ceasefire. Trump supported us today, the Ukrainian president said. He added that Ukraine is very grateful to Germany" for its support.

Zelenskyy also individually thanked his allies including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Natos Mark Rutte, Italian President Giorgia Meloni, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Zelenskyy said leaders all over the world were united for the goal of peace in Ukraine. He said European allies spoke with one voice towards one mission.

He reiterated that there can be no peace deal without Kyiv. Everything about Ukraine has to be discussed with Ukraine - we have to be part of the conversation. Zelenskyy said Trump would reach out to him after the Putin meeting.

With inputs from agenciess
AI startup Perplexity has made an unprecedented $34.5 billion all-cash offer to buy Google Chrome, aiming to acquire the browsers massive user base amid a looming US antitrust ruling against Google. Backed by major investors, the San Francisco-based firm says the deal would preserve Chromes openness while investing billions in its future development

Perplexity logo is seen in this illustration taken February 16, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Artificial intelligence startup Perplexity has surprised the tech industry with a formal $34.5 billion all-cash offer to acquire Googles Chrome browser  a product that dominates the web browsing market with billions of users worldwide.

The bid, made public on Tuesday, comes despite Chrome not being officially for sale and Perplexitys own valuation being far below the amount it is offering.

The approach to Googles parent company Alphabet arrives during a pivotal moment in the US governments antitrust battle against the search giant.

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With regulators pressing for remedies after a federal judge ruled last year that Google maintained an unlawful monopoly in search, one possible outcome under consideration is the forced sale of Chrome.

Perplexitys proposal positions the startup as a ready and willing buyer if such a ruling is made.

A startup challenging industry giants

Founded in 2022, San Francisco-based Perplexity is a relatively new player in the technology sector but has gained rapid attention for its AI-powered search tools designed to compete directly with Googles core product.

The company is led by co-founder and CEO Aravind Srinivas, a former Google intern, and is backed by major investors including Nvidia, SoftBank, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

Perplexitys rise has been swift. Its app has become increasingly popular on Apples App Store and Google Play, amassing 30 million active users and handling more than 780 million monthly queries.

The platform offers direct AI-generated answers to user questions, positioning itself as a streamlined alternative to traditional search engines.

The company has a history of bold acquisition proposals. Earlier this year, it made an offer to acquire TikToks US operations in a bid to address Washingtons national security concerns over the video-sharing platforms Chinese ownership.

That proposal, estimated at $50 billion, did not progress, but it established Perplexitys willingness to engage in high-profile corporate manoeuvres.

The $34.5 billion proposal

Perplexitys latest bid was sent in a letter to Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai. In the correspondence, Srinivas described the offer as designed to satisfy an antitrust remedy in highest public interest by placing Chrome with a capable, independent operator.

The startup stated that several major venture capital funds have agreed to finance the purchase in full, though it declined to identify them.

The development was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

The proposal is remarkable for its scale. Perplexity was last valued at approximately $18 billion, making the Chrome offer nearly twice its own worth.

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The company has raised around $1 billion in total funding to date, but claims that it has commitments from outside investors to cover the entire purchase price in cash.

The plan includes a pledge to:

Keep Chromium  the open-source codebase that underpins Chrome and other browsers such as Microsoft Edge  freely available to developers.

Maintain Google as the default search engine in Chrome, while allowing users to change settings.

Invest $3 billion into Chrome and Chromium over the next two years.

Retain a substantial portion of Chromes workforce.

Avoid making undisclosed or stealth modifications to the browser that could affect users without their knowledge.

Perplexity has pointed out that the deal would not involve any equity component, aiming to eliminate potential antitrust concerns arising from shared ownership.

The company has also said that its acquisition approach is aligned with preserving user choice and supporting competition in the browser market.

Why is Chrome important

Google Chrome is the most widely used internet browser globally, with more than 3 billion users and an estimated 60 per cent share of the worldwide browser market. On desktops and mobile devices, it serves as a primary gateway to the internet for both casual and professional users.

The browsers influence extends far beyond simply enabling web access. Chrome is tightly integrated with Google Search, which commands close to 90 per cent of the global search engine market.

This integration provides Google with a direct channel to search traffic and valuable user behaviour data  both critical for the companys advertising revenue and AI development efforts.

In the current landscape, where AI-driven search is becoming increasingly central, browsers have regained importance as platforms for delivering information, collecting user data, and hosting AI-powered tools.

Perplexity, which recently launched its own AI-native browser called Comet, sees Chromes massive reach as an opportunity to accelerate its challenge to Google and other competitors such as OpenAI, which is also reportedly interested in building an AI-enabled browser.

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Connection to the Google antitrust case

Perplexitys offer arrives amid ongoing legal proceedings that could reshape the search and browser markets in the United States.

Last year, US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Google violated antitrust laws by maintaining its dominance through a network of exclusive agreements with device manufacturers, browser developers, and carriers  arrangements that directed users to Google Search by default.

The case, filed by the US Department of Justice in 2020, is now in its remedies phase.

The DOJ has proposed measures that include requiring Google to sell Chrome, licensing its search data to competitors, and limiting its ability to pay for default search positions on devices and browsers.

Mehta is expected to issue his decision on remedies soon. His ruling could range from relatively narrow adjustments to Googles business agreements, to more drastic structural changes such as divesting Chrome.

In court earlier this year, Mehta questioned whether selling Chrome might be a little cleaner and a little bit more elegant than other remedies aimed at restoring competition.

Google has opposed the idea of a forced sale. In testimony, Pichai argued that such a move would damage the companys operations, deter investment in new technologies, and potentially compromise user security.

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The company has said it intends to appeal any unfavourable remedy ruling, potentially extending the legal process for years.

How much Google Chrome is worth

Estimating Chromes market value is challenging, with analyst assessments ranging from $20 billion to as high as $50 billion.

Gabriel Weinberg, CEO of rival search engine DuckDuckGo, has suggested that the browser could command at least $50 billion if Google were compelled to sell, reported Reuters.

Perplexitys $34.5 billion bid sits in the lower-middle of that range, though it is still a substantial premium compared to some valuations.

While Alphabet has not publicly commented on the offer, sources told the Financial Times that the company is not being taken as a serious proposition at this stage.

Should Chrome be put up for sale, industry competition for the asset would be intense.

In addition to Perplexity, OpenAI executives have expressed potential interest in acquiring the browser, and other technology companies could see strategic value in owning the platform.

How Google Chrome will help Perplexitys AI ambitions

Earlier this year, Perplexity began rolling out Comet, its own AI-enabled web browser, to a limited number of users.

Built on the same Chromium framework that powers Chrome, Comet integrates voice and text command features, allowing users to perform tasks such as online purchases, summarising social media updates, and composing emails without manually navigating web pages.

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By acquiring Chrome, Perplexity would instantly gain access to a user base numbering in the billions, vastly expanding its reach.

The company has argued that this would allow it to scale its AI offerings more effectively and compete with larger firms such as Google and OpenAI in the rapidly evolving AI search space.

Jesse Dwyer, Perplexitys head of communications, underscored the companys seriousness about the bid, telling the Financial Times, This isnt a joke. We are good at this. We know we would be good stewards of Chrome and we would challenge anybody who says they would be a better one.

Google is simultaneously working to defend its search dominance by introducing new AI-driven features.

The company has begun deploying Overviews  AI-generated summaries that appear at the top of search results  as part of its strategy to maintain relevance in the face of competition from AI-first platforms.

Chrome plays a vital role in this effort, acting as a direct distribution channel for these AI enhancements. Analysts suggest that for this reason alone, Google would be reluctant to part with the browser voluntarily, regardless of the bid price.

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The Perplexity bid puts into spotlight the tech race to control the key points of access to online information.

If accepted and approved, Perplexitys acquisition plan would mark one of the largest-ever transactions involving a single internet platform.

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With inputs from agencies
An Indian Army soldier was killed while foiling an infiltration attempt by Pakistani terrorist near the LoC in Uri, Baramulla, during the night of August 1213. Officials said that BAT team was not involved in the attack after reports emerged.

Indian paramilitary soldiers stand guard as police and army soldiers launch an operation in Awantipora area, south of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday, May 6, 2020. (Photo: Dar Yasin/AP)

The Indian Army thwarted a major infiltration attempt by Pakistani terrorists along the Line of Control near Tikka Post in the Uri sector of Baramulla district during the night of August 1213. However, alert Indian troops retaliated swiftly, foiling the infiltration bid.

Earlier reports, citing sources, suggested the incident was carried out by Pakistans Border Action Team (BAT). However, the Indian Army later clarified that it was not a BAT operation and said further details were being verified.

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The incident took place in the Area of Responsibility of 16 Sikh LI (09 Bihar Advance Party) under Police Station Uri. During the exchange of fire, Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar sustained fatal injuries while defending his post.

Chinar Corps deeply regrets the loss of precious life of Braveheart Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, while performing operational duty along the Line of Control in Baramulla district.



Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in pic.twitter.com/icvmJojA3V  Chinar Corps - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) August 12, 2025

Indian Army pays tribute

Chinar Corps deeply regrets the loss of Braveheart Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar while performing operational duty along the LoC in Baramulla. We salute his immense valour and sacrifice, and stand in solidarity with his family, the Army posted on X.

In a separate tribute, the Army said, General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, who laid down his life in the line of duty at Baramulla. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

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Reports of BAT involvement

Earlier, sources in the Army told CNN-News18 that they are still ascertaining the cause of the incident, and that no involvement of Pakistans Border Action Team (BAT) is likely.

These developments came after reports had emerged saying that Pakistans BAT was behind the attack on the forward post.

The Border Action Team is a special operations unit of the Pakistan Army, often comprising specially trained soldiers along with militants from terror groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

BATs primary role is to conduct cross-border raids, ambushes, and surprise strikes on Indian positions along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir, typically targeting forward posts, patrol parties, or small groups of soldiers.

Following the attempt, security forces launched a large-scale cordon and search operation to track down the infiltrators taking cover under the darkness.
For India to realise the full potential of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector, it must accelerate indigenous innovation, reform procurement, and invest in globally competitive platforms. Until then, smart and selective imports like the Apache will remain critical pillars of Indias national security architecture

Peace time is nothing but an illusion. Even during periods of relative calm, we must prepare for uncertainty. Sudden developments can force a complete shift in our financial and operational purpose.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

On July 22, 2025, the Indian Army Aviation Corps received its first batch of AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from the United States. This development marks a significant milestone in Indias military modernisation strategy. The acquisition is not only a tactical enhancement for Indias rotary-wing capability but also raises pressing questions about Indias dependency on foreign platforms, even as it pursues the ambitious Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence.

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The induction comes amid heightened regional tensions and evolving security challenges along Indias western and northern borders. While Pakistan recently inducted Chinese Z-10ME helicopters, and China continues to deploy advanced rotary and fixed-wing assets along the LAC, Indias Apache acquisition underscores the urgency to bridge existing gaps in air combat and surveillance capabilities.

Why Apache?

The AH-64 Apache, currently operated by 17 countries, is a cutting-edge attack helicopter known for its multi-role, multi-domain operations (MDO) capabilities. India signed a deal with Boeing in 2020 worth Rs 5,691 crore (approximately $681 million) for the procurement of six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army. This followed an earlier $2.5 billion agreement in 2015 for the supply of 22 AH-64E Apache and 15 CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). At present, the IAF operates all 22 Apache helicopters, while the Indian Army has inducted three, with the remaining three scheduled for delivery by November 2025.

The Apache first saw combat during Operation Just Cause in Panama in 1989, where it provided effective night-time fire support for ground troops. It was later extensively deployed in the Global War on Terror, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq, where its precision strike capabilities, agility, and advanced sensor systems made it a key asset in close air support and counter-insurgency operations.

The AH-64E Apache Guardian is considered one of the most advanced multi-role attack helicopters globally. Its cutting-edge systems include the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire-control radar mounted above the main rotor, enabling it to detect, classify, and prioritise up to 256 targets simultaneously.

With a top speed of nearly 293 km/h, an operational range exceeding 480 km, and advanced avionics, the Apache offers precision, survivability, and multi-domain operational capability. Designed to perform in all weather conditions, day or night, it is capable of operating in high-altitude and hot-desert environments, making it particularly suited for Indias varied terrain, including Ladakh and Kashmir.

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According to a social media post by ADG PIIndian Army: The Apache enhances not just our firepower but our entire combat intelligence cycle. It integrates seamlessly into ISR-led operations and joint command structures.

The decision to procure separate platforms for the Army marks a doctrinal shift, as the Indian Army sought its own fleet for independent operations under Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs). This reflects a growing recognition of the rotary-wing elements importance in modern combined arms warfare.

Integrated Theatre Command

The Apaches induction fits into Indias evolving military doctrine, which emphasises speed, mobility, and precision under the Integrated Theatre Commands (ITC) being conceptualised. In particular, the Apache enables rapid escalation dominance in response to transgressions or attacks, supports airborne assault operations with advanced ISR and escort capabilities, and performs suppression-of-enemy-air-defence (SEAD) roles in conventional operations.

A senior official from the Integrated Defence Staff stated: Modern battlefield mobility requires more than numbers. Apache gives you reach, resilience, and precision in time-sensitive operations.

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The Indigenous Defence Imperative

Indias push for self-reliance in defence, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, has led to significant investments in indigenous systems like:

(a) HAL Rudra (armed version of Dhruv)

(b) LCH Prachand (Light Combat Helicopter)

(c) ALH Dhruv (utility platform)

Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence & Analyses (MP-IDSA) Defence Analyst Rahul Wankhede asserts: The Apache 64E effectively meets Indias current capability requirements by providing a combat-proven, high-performance platform while indigenous assets like the LCH are still maturing. However, it should serve as a transitional solution as India strengthens its attack helicopter ecosystem.

While Prachand is optimised for high-altitude missions and Rudra is in limited service, none currently match the combat history or multi-role capabilities of the Apache. The need for proven, high-performance systems capable of delivering across multiple mission sets justifies Indias selective imports despite the indigenous push.

Defence analyst Laxman Kumar Behera notes: Theres a pragmatic balance being struck. We need to be aatmanirbhar, but we also need readiness today. The Apache fills a very real gap.

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Pakistan and China: The Regional Rotor Race

Pakistan has inducted the Z-10ME, the export version of Chinas Z-10 attack helicopter. Earlier trials in 2021 reportedly failed to impress Pakistani defence planners. The Z-10ME is an upgraded variant claimed to be suitable for mountainous terrain, but it lacks the extensive combat history of the Apache.

China, on the other hand, has deployed a range of helicopters, including the Z-19, Z-10, and Z-20, along the LAC. These platforms complement its rapid infrastructure development across Tibet and Xinjiang, enhancing the PLAs readiness in high-altitude zones. Given the two-front challenge India faces, acquiring a battle-proven platform like the Apache strengthens Indias ability to maintain a credible deterrence posture.

Why Apache When We Have Prachand?

Its important to clarify that Apache is not replacing Indian systems, but complementing them. The HAL Prachand, for instance, has entered IAF and Army service in limited numbers and is effective in specific roles like high-altitude close support. However, key limitations persist in indigenous platforms:

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(a) Lack of high-power engines

(b) Limited night-fighting capability

(c) Absence of fully integrated radar/weapon suites

Until Indian systems reach comparable benchmarks, the Apache offers assured capability, particularly in frontline deployments. As retired Air Marshal Anil Chopra explains: Prachand and Apache are not in competition. One ensures long-term self-reliance; the other ensures todays combat readiness.

This urgency is compounded by the fact that the MiG-21, dubbed the workhorse of the IAF, is retiring this September.

Challenges in Indigenous Rotary-Wing Development

Despite successes, the indigenous rotorcraft ecosystem faces challenges:

(a) Engine dependency  HAL relies on imported engines like the Shakti (a Turbomeca product).

(b) Delayed R&D cycles  HAL and DRDO projects often face bureaucratic delays and changing specifications.

(c) Export barriers  Lack of combat history hinders export potential.

These issues slow the ability to scale up and create globally competitive alternatives. A multi-pronged reform involving private sector participation, joint ventures, and faster procurement is essential.

Strategic Autonomy vs Operational Readiness

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Indias defence strategy increasingly rests on a delicate balance between strategic autonomy and operational urgency. In sectors where time and security are non-negotiable, imports like the Apache are deemed necessary.

As per SIPRI data (2024), India remains the worlds top arms importer. However, this is gradually declining as domestic capacity increases. The goal is to reduce imports to less than 30 per cent of total acquisitions by 2030.

Budgetary Priorities and Procurement Delays

This years Defence Budget is Rs 6.81 trillion, of which Rs 1.49 trillion is allocated for the acquisition of modern platforms. Allocations for capital expenditure have grown in recent years but are still stretched across multiple demands:

(a) Modernisation of infantry equipment

(b) Submarine and naval procurement

(c) Fighter aircraft acquisitions (MRFA deal pending)

Large-ticket items like the Apache absorb substantial portions of these budgets, occasionally causing delays in other indigenous procurements. Balancing high-impact imports like the Apache with local development is a budgeting tightrope; every year indigenisation is delayed, and the cost of dependency rises.

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Way Forward

The induction of the AH-64E Apache Guardian into the Indian Army represents a strategic bridge linking Indias current capability requirements with its long-term self-reliance goals. While indigenous platforms like the Prachand and Rudra are key components of Indias defence future, systems like the Apache provide essential firepower and survivability in the present. Defence Journalist Ajay Banerjee notes that in the next 3-4 years, the Indian Army will need to procure 11 more Apaches and Chinooks to meet its requirements.

For India to realise the full potential of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector, it must accelerate indigenous innovation, reform procurement, and invest in globally competitive platforms. Until then, smart and selective imports like the Apache will remain critical pillars of Indias national security architecture.

The Apache offers proven combat capability essential for high-altitude and joint operations, and its procurement also underscores the continued reliance on foreign platforms. To address this, India must prioritise publicprivate partnerships, foster joint ventures with foreign OEMs, and invest in an indigenous engine development ecosystem. Simultaneously, reforming procurement procedures and expediting R&D cycles will be crucial to reducing external dependency.

The author is a researcher at the United Service Institution of India, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
As a long-term Donald Trump supporter, it pains me to see the mistakes he is making regarding his treatment of India. Slapping India with 50 per cent tariffs is total madness! Starting August 7, a 25 per cent levy, then another 25 per cent penalty for buying Russian oilframed as secondary tariffs to squeeze Moscow over Ukraine. But this isnt smart. Its a blunder that alienates a powerhouse ally, hurts Americas wallet, and weakens its global clout. In short, it is a colossal mistake, and I fail to understand why he is being so hostile. India, the worlds fastest-growing major economy, deserves respectnot bully tactics. Heres why Trump is wrong!

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Strategically, this is a foolish decision. India is Americas indispensable shield against Chinas aggression in the Indo-Pacific. The QuadUS, India, Japan, Australiahinges on this bond to keep sea lanes free and Beijing in check. Trump risks shattering it. Wiser heads have called it an enormous mistake, warning it will push New Delhi toward Moscow and Beijing after decades of US courtship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Hes unbowed! Hes prioritising Indias energy security for 1.4 billion people and refusing to halt Russian imports that stabilise global prices.

Back in 2022, America encouraged India to buy Russian crude oil to cool markets post-invasion. Now? Flip-flop betrayal! This idiocy accelerates Indias BRICS pivot, ditching dollar dominance and eroding US leverage. India, with its booming tech hubs and military might, wont kneel. Trumps short-sightedness empowers adversaries, turning a vital partner into a reluctant rival.

Economically, it is a disaster! China guzzles more Russian oil than anyoneyet no tariffs there? Trump spares Beijing while hammering India, exposing his selective rage. America itself trades $3.5 billion with Russia yearly, despite sanctions. Indias 36 per cent reliance on Russian crude? Pure necessitycheap fuel for growth, averting global spikes above $80/barrel that would slam U.S. consumers too. These tariffs crush Indias exports: textiles, gems, autossectors employing millions. US supply chains? Disrupted! India powers Americas pharma and ITthink life-saving drugs and software. Exports could plummet 40-50 per cent, shaving Indias GDP by 0.3 per centbut the ripple effects hit US jobs in linked industries.

Trump killed a potential deal, branding India a bad partner. Yet Indias offerscutting tariffs on US goods, boosting defence buyswere rebuffed. India is not exploiting anyone. Its fuelling about 7 per cent growth, lifting millions from poverty, creating markets for US firms like Apple and Ford.

Diplomatically? Trump is isolating America, not Russia. The EU still imports 19 per cent of its LNG from Moscow. Turkey? Same deal. But India, a strategic gem, gets slammed. New Delhi rightly responds by saying: Unfair, unjustified! and vows to safeguard its interests after US hypocrisy on Venezuela sanctions that burned India before. Trumps threats of broader secondary sanctions also ring hollow.

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What is impressive is Indias diplomatic responseno knee-jerk retaliation, but a focus on talks. Trump is prioritising short-term Russia pressure over long-game alliances. But India wont flinchthe economy is resilient, stocks are steady despite threats. Alienating India empowers China. To whose advantage is this?

Trumps error here will cost jobs, security, and influence. India will continue to rise regardlessvibrant, innovative, visionary. I hope Trump listens to better voices and changes his antagonistic approach.

Making America Great means working with India to make it great too! Trump must now reverse course and work with PM Modi, as this is in the best interests of the world.

David Vance is a political commentator and author. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir is being actively courted by Washington. On June 18, US President Donald Trump, in a stunning and unprecedented gesture, received Munir at the White House for a meeting that went on for two hours over lunch. Within two months, Munir again visited the US to attend the change of guard of the US Central Command, which is based in Florida. The Central Commands remit extends to West Asia, North Africa, and Central Asia and also includes Pakistan. The US has always ensured that India and Pakistan are not covered by the same Command. Thus, India falls within the responsibility of the Hawaii-based Indo-Pacific Command, while Pakistan is under the Central Command.

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General Michael Erik Kurilla, who had led the Command since 2022, handed over charge, on retirement, to Admiral Brad Cooper on August 10. Appearing before the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee in June, Kurilla praised Pakistans phenomenal cooperation with the US in efforts to combat the terrorist group ISIS-Khorasan. He also underlined that the US could separately maintain good ties with both India and Pakistan. Munir was invited, along with some senior officers of foreign countries, to the handover ceremony held on August 10. During his visit, Munir also met the senior-most US military officer, General Dan Caine, who is

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.A prominent Indian journalist reported on August 10 that Munir attended a dinner hosted in his honour by the Pakistani Honorary Consul, Adnan Asad, while he was in Florida. Around 120 members of the Pakistani expatriate community were invited to the event. Munir spoke on the occasion; no copy of his speech was released, nor were guests allowed to take any recording devices. He did, however, have a prepared text. It is obvious from the aggressive and controversial remarks that he made that Munir not only knew but wanted them to become public despite the guests being prevented from taking in recording devices, which would naturally have included smartphones. Nowadays, it is simply impossible to ensure that no electronic record is made of a speech during a dinner such as the one hosted by Asad.

In his address, Munir launched into a tirade against India. He warned that if India constructed a dam over the Indus river, Pakistani missiles could destroy it. This was clearly in the context of Pakistans repeated assertion that Indian attempts to stop the flow of waters, assigned to it under the Indus Waters Treaty, would be an act of war. He went on to say that if Pakistan faced any existential threatand hinted that if the Pakistani people were deprived of water, it would be just thatthen, if it goes down, it would take half the world with it.

This was an indirect but unmistakable reference to a nuclear war. He also said that Pakistan would act against India beginning with the eastwhere it kept most of its valuable resourcesand move to the west. He also referred to a tweet which he had commissioned. The tweet had the Quranic verse Surah Fil with a picture of Mukesh Ambani. The implication of such a tweet was to warn Indian industrialists that their assets could be destroyed by Pakistan. Munir also gave ugly analogies of how Pakistan could damage India. And, to crown it all, he said that India should show sportsman spirit and own the losses it had suffered in the recent fightinga reference to Operation Sindoor. He said that Pakistan would do the same. This was a means of reinforcing the claim that Pakistan had got the better of India in Operation Sindoor.

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Significantly, as Munirs hostile remarks against India were made in the US, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued only an anodyne account of his interaction with the Pakistani expatriate community. It did not want Munir to be criticized by the US military for misusing its hospitality. The ISPR noted: During an interactive session with the Pakistani diaspora, COAS urged them to remain confident in Pakistans bright future and to actively contribute to attracting investments. The diaspora reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Pakistans progress and development.

It is noteworthy that the ISPR did not refer at all to Munirs anti-India rant. However, an account in the Pakistani media, which bears the hallmark of an official leak, did mention that Pakistan could destroy any dam India constructed over the Indus river. Thus, Pakistans respected daily Dawn quoted Munir as saying: We will wait for India to build a dam, and when they do so, we will destroy it. The Indus river is not the Indians family property. We have no shortage of resources to undo the Indian designs to stop the river.

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No Pakistani Army chief has ever made such a statement. It is foolish for two reasons. If Pakistan destroys a future dam built on the Indus river or any river flowing into Pakistan, not only India but Pakistan will be inundated by the waters released from the destroyed dam. And, what if India responds by targeting the Tarbela Dam on the Indus river and the Mangla Dam on the Jhelum? Both are in Pakistan and contain large bodies of water. Their sudden release would cause enormous floods that would damage large areas of Pakistan.

On July 11, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement on reports of Munirs utterly irresponsible remarks in Florida. The statement noted: Our attention has been drawn to remarks reportedly made by the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff while on a visit to the United States. Nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistans stock-in-trade. The international community can draw its own conclusions on the irresponsibility inherent in such remarks, which also reinforce the well-held doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in a state where the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups. It is also regrettable that these remarks should have been made from the soil of a friendly third country. India has already made it clear that it will not give in to nuclear blackmail. We will take all steps necessary to safeguard our own security.

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In a response issued also on August 11, the Pakistan Foreign Ministry stated: Pakistan strongly rejects the immature remarks made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs earlier today, which is yet another demonstration of their chronic tendency to distort facts and twist statements out of context. The Indian narrative of an alleged nuclear blackmail is a misleading and self-serving construct. Pakistan remains firmly opposed to the use or threat of use of force. Indias sabre-rattling and war-mongering whenever confronted invite unfounded allegations bereft of rationality. Pakistan is a responsible nuclear weapon state with an elaborate command and control structure under full civilian control. It has always exercised discipline and restraint while dealing with issues of such importance.

It continued, Pakistans sustained and credible counterterrorism efforts are internationally acknowledged. Our security forces remain the bulwark against terrorism. The Indian MEAs spurious insinuations are irresponsible and without a shred of evidence. We also note with concern a pointless reference to third countries in a bid to exert pressure on Pakistan. This not only reflects Indias lack of diplomatic confidence but also constitutes a futile attempt to unnecessarily involve other countries. Contrary to Indias belligerent and jingoistic approach, Pakistan shall continue to act as a responsible member of the comity of nations. However, any act of Indian aggression or violation of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity will be met with an immediate and matching response. The onus of any ensuing escalation will rest squarely with the Indian leadership.

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This writer has deliberately quoted the statements of both countries in full to point out that the Pakistani statement does not mention Munirs comments at all. Indeed, the starting point of the Indian statement is Munirs comments and their implications. In order to refute Indias statement, all that Pakistan had to do was to give a full account of what Munir had said at the dinner. From that, it could have proceeded to assert that nothing in what he had said could be construed as India had claimed. However, it chose not to follow this logical and diplomatic approach. The only inference which can be drawn is that the Indian journalists account of Munirs threats is correct. It also follows that the Indian statement is valid.

In addition to the MEA statement, India should lodge a strong protest with the State Department in Washington against Munir making such anti-India comments in the US. This is clearly contrary to diplomatic practice. India should demand that the State Department deplore the fact that Munir had used US territory to indulge in issuing what were nuclear threats. Naturally, the State Department may be reluctant to do so because of the current warmth in US-Pakistan ties and the role America wants it to play as a conduit to Iran. It may also be chary of pulling up Munir because he has obviously made a good impression on Trumpafter all, he has been a prime mover in Pakistan nominating Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

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India must carefully monitor developments between the US military and the Pakistan armed forces. They were very close in the past, and Kurillas positive remarks indicate that the US military wants them to become close again. Its anger against the Pakistani militarys duplicity in Afghanistan, which contributed to the USs strategic defeat in the forever war, seems to be a matter of the past for the US military.

The writer is a former Indian diplomat who served as Indias Ambassador to Afghanistan and Myanmar, and as secretary, the Ministry of External Affairs. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Whether the Trump-Putin talks will be the beginning of the end or simply another false dawn remains to be seen. But it is clear that the stakes have never been higher, and the potential for a breakthrough, however fragile, is one worth pursuing

As world leaders prepare for a series of high-stakes talks between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, the possibility of a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine war seems to inch closer. While these talks may provide the first real glimmer of hope for an end to the conflict, the path to peace remains riddled with obstacles. The distrust among the key playersTrumps unpredictability, Putins ruthless approach, Volodymyr Zelenskyys unyielding stance, and the broader international forces at playsuggests that the road ahead is far from smooth.

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At the heart of this unfolding diplomatic puzzle lies a persistent trust deficit that makes any negotiation fraught with risk. Trust is fundamental in any ceasefire negotiation, but in the case of this war, it is severely lacking. Putins military aggression in Ukraine has left a trail of destruction, and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, having withstood months of warfare, is understandably sceptical about Russias true intentions.

Ukraine has suffered immeasurably, and Zelenskyy has publicly stated on numerous occasions that peace will come only when Russia fully withdraws its forces. Yet for the Russian leader, any peace settlement must preserve the territorial gains in eastern Ukraine and secure his vision for the future of the Donbas region.

Putins primary objective has been to maintain Russian control over parts of the Donbas and secure his dominance in the Black Sea. Despite repeated claims of success, Russias military efforts in Ukraine have faltered, and it is far from achieving a decisive military victory. Nevertheless, Putin has framed the war as one of existential importance for Russia, demanding that Ukraine and the West accept Russias position on the ground. His obsession with Donbas stems not only from its strategic value but also from its symbolic importance as part of the broader Russian narrative of reclaiming lost territory. For Putin, any concession on this front would be seen as a major humiliation.

While Russias military failures in Ukraine are evident, the Russian leadership perceives itself as being close to victory. Moscow has claimed that the battle for the Donbas is essentially won and that the conflict is now entering a more manageable phase. But this could, in many ways, be a strategic illusion.

The reality is that Russias military position is somewhat untenable, marked by logistical failures, Ukrainian resistance, and the growing resilience of international sanctions. However, Putins narrative, carefully crafted and reinforced by state media, continues to present an image of near-victory. This narrative, however misleading, fuels Russian domestic support for the war and provides a foundation upon which Putin can build his arguments during peace talks.

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President Zelenskyy, on the other hand, has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance, but his insistence on no compromise has complicated the possibility of a negotiated settlement. Zelenskyys uncompromising approach is understandable, given the immense sacrifice Ukraine has made throughout the war. His political survival depends, to a large extent, on maintaining this stance, as any sign of concession could be perceived as weakness by both the Ukrainian population and the broader international community.

Zelenskyys obstinacy is fuelled by the belief that Ukraine can drive Russia out entirely, especially with continued Western support in terms of both military and financial aid. However, this optimism could be counterproductive. While Ukraines forces are undeniably formidable, its unlikely they can achieve a total military victory. The reality is that Russia will not simply roll over and surrender, particularly when its core interests are at stake. A more balanced, pragmatic approach could be necessary, but its clear that Zelenskyy is under immense pressure not to appear as though he is capitulating to Russias demands.

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Compounding this is the unpredictability of Trump, whose political career has been marked by a series of impulsive decisions and a highly unconventional approach to diplomacy. While Trumps relationship with Putin is often viewed through the lens of personal admiration, his last tenure as president was characterized by a jarring lack of consistency, particularly regarding foreign policy. Whether or not Trump will be able to strike a meaningful deal with Putin in this new political climate is unclear.

Trumps involvement in the talks could bring some unique advantages to the table, given his tendency to break diplomatic norms and adopt a more direct, transactional style of negotiation. However, his history of unpredictability makes it difficult to determine whether he would act as an honest broker or unwittingly undermine Ukraines position. Trumps ability to balance the conflicting interests of both Russia and Ukraine will be a crucial test. He must walk a fine lineacting as a mediator while ensuring that Ukraines sovereignty is respected and that Putin does not seize an opportunity to further destabilize the region.

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From a broader geopolitical perspective, Europes stamina is also an important factor in the ceasefire talks. The European Union has remained steadfast in its support for Ukraine, imposing sanctions on Russia and providing both military and economic assistance. But Europes resolve is increasingly being tested. The war has put immense pressure on the EU, especially with rising energy prices and the economic fallout from sanctions. While European leaders have been vocal in their support of Ukraine, there is growing concern about how long they can maintain this level of commitment. Extended conflict without a clear resolution will strain European unity, and Putin is acutely aware of this.

Moreover, Russias obsession with controlling parts of the Black Sea is not just about military strategyits about access to vital trade routes and maintaining its influence over energy markets. For Putin, the Black Sea represents a geopolitical lifeline. Securing territorial control over the region would not only bolster Russias position in the region but also limit Ukraines ability to export its goods to the wider world. The strategic importance of this area cannot be overstated, and it will remain a major sticking point in peace talks.

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The international communitys role is equally critical. The Wests commitment to Ukraine must remain strong if any meaningful ceasefire is to be achieved. However, Western powers must be prepared to confront the reality that the war may not have a simple military resolution. A political solution, though fraught with complexity, might be the only way to secure a lasting peace.

In the coming weeks, as Trump and Putin meet, all eyes will be on these talks. The possibility of a ceasefire is tantalising, but its important to acknowledge that the conditions for peace are still far from ideal. Trust remains a scarce commodity, and the motivations driving the key players are deeply entrenched.

Yet, for all its challenges, the war cannot continue indefinitely. The West and the international community at large must support efforts to navigate this turbulent environment toward a peaceful resolution. Whether these talks will be the beginning of the end or simply another false dawn remains to be seen. But it is clear that the stakes have never been higher, and the potential for a breakthrough, however fragile, is one worth pursuing.

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The writer is a member of the National Disaster Management Authority. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Kwon, 33, co-founded Terraform Labs in Singapore and built the TerraUSD and Luna tokens, a pairing that once carried a market value north of $50 billion

Do Kwon, the South Korean cryptocurrency entrepreneur whose stablecoin empire imploded in 2022, pleaded guilty Tuesday (August 12) to two US counts of conspiracy to defraud and wire fraud.

Kwon, 33, co-founded Terraform Labs in Singapore and built the TerraUSD and Luna tokens, a pairing that once carried a market value north of $50 billion. At a hearing in Manhattan federal court, he admitted lying to investors about how his supposedly stable digital dollar kept its $1 peg.

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I made false and misleading statements about why it regained its peg by failing to disclose a trading firms role in restoring that peg, Kwon told Judge Paul Engelmayer. What I did was wrong.

The plea deal with the US attorneys office drops other charges, including securities fraud and money laundering conspiracy, from a nine-count indictment. Prosecutors will recommend no more than 12 years in prison if Kwon accepts full responsibility. Sentencing is set for December 11. He faces a statutory maximum of 25 years.

Back in 2021, when TerraUSD slipped off its peg, Kwon told the world a computer algorithm had fixed it. In reality, prosecutors say, he orchestrated a secret rescue by a high-frequency trading firm that bought millions of dollars worth of the token. The false narrative, they allege, lured more investors into Terraforms products and sent Luna soaring before the crash wiped out roughly $40 billion.

Manhattan US Attorney Jay Clayton called it one of the largest frauds in history, driven by the hype of blockchain technology and speculative mania.

Kwon has been in custody since his extradition from Montenegro last year. He also faces criminal charges in South Korea. The plea agreement allows him to seek transfer abroad after serving half his US sentence, if prosecutors do not object.

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In a separate case, he and Terraform agreed in 2024 to pay $80 million in civil penalties and accept a ban from crypto transactions as part of a $4.55 billion settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The 2022 crypto crash swept away several high-profile firms. Kwons fall from a darling of the blockchain scene to a jailed defendant stands as one of its most spectacular collapses.

With inputs from Reuters
Ahead of the Alaska summit between the US and Russian leaders, European leaders will hold virtual talks today with President Donald Trump to press him to not cut a deal with Vladimir Putin without Europes approval. They will also discuss the issues of territorial control and security guarantees in any deal with Russia.

President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, on Friday. AP

In a last-ditch effort to outline their positions ahead of the Alaska summit, European leaders will on Wednesday hold virtual talks with President Donald Trump to press him to not cut any deal with Vladimir Putin unilaterally. They will also discuss issues like territorial control and security guarantees.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has convened virtual meetings to be attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, his European allies, and Trump.

First, European leaders will hold a meeting amongst themselves and then they will get on the call with Trump, according to Financial Times.

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The European leaders part of these meetings will include Merz, Zelenskyy, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian PM Georgia Meloni, Polish PM Donald Tusk, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Nato chief Mark Rutte, and European Union (EU) chief Ursula von der Leyen. US Vice President JD Vance will also join the call beside Trump.

Trump will meet Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska. The Russian war on Ukraine is expected to be on the top of their agenda.

ALSO READ: With Russias terms to Ukraine, Putin seeks surrender  not a peace deal

European leaders are concerned that Trump, who has long had friendly ties with Putin, could unilaterally cut a deal about Ukraine with the Russian leader. They are also concerned that the Russian leader could convince him to pressure Ukraine to cede territory in exchange of any ceasefire  just like he convinced Trump in 2018 in the Helsinki summit that there was no Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election.

Whats Europes agenda with Trump call?

In the call with Trump, European leaders will likely stress that any discussions of terms for ending the Russian war in Ukraine must start with a full ceasefire and any deal must be approved by Europe and just be finalised between the United States and Russia, according to The New York Times.

For days, European leaders, including Zelenskyy, have been rejecting any US-Russia deal and the idea of ceding Ukrainian territory in exchange of a weak ceasefire deal. Zelenskyy has said that any deal without Ukraines approval will be as good as dead. Merz has said that Putin only acts under pressure and has indicated he could press Trump for punitive measures on Russia for continued rejection of peace efforts.

Nato chief Rutte has said that any recognition of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory will have to be de-facto (practical recognition) and not de jure (actual political, legal recognition). British PM Starmer has warned that any ceasefire cannot be an opportunity for President Putin to go away and re-arm.

European leaders are concerned that Putin could use the Alaska meeting to convince Trump on a deal that Zelensky would never accept, such as ceding Ukrainian territory and recognising its Russian annexation, leading Trump to turn his ire on Ukraine and its leader, according to The Times.

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US President Donald Trump slammed his former National Security Advisor John Bolton for saying Russian President Vladimir Putin already won ahead of his meeting with the Potus. Heres what Bolton told Firstpost

US President Donald Trump has jeopardised decades of American efforts to bring India away from Russia and China, his former aide John Bolton. File image/AFP

US President Donald Trump slammed his former National Security Advisor John Bolton over his latest media interactions and his assessment of the upcoming US-Russia Summit in Alaska. Trump took to TruthSocial to call out Boltons remark that Putin already won before heading to Alaska for talks on the ongoing Ukraine war.

Trump insisted that the media narrative was biased and that the US was winning at everything, rejecting Boltons characterisation that Putin had already won by securing this meeting.

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Bolton, in an exclusive interview with Firstposts Bhagyasree Sengupta, said that Putins meeting with Trump in Alaska is a big win for the Russian leader. It is a big win for Putin to come to the United States. Hes a pariah leader of a rogue state that committed unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, Trumps former National Security Advisor said on Tuesday.

On Friday, hes going to get to stand next to the President of the United States and get his picture taken on territory that used to be Russian. Nobody in Russia has missed the fact that we bought Alaska from Russia in 1867. So its what Trump can do. I think a lot of people are going to be watching. But the main thing is to see if Putin emerges with Trump thinking that theyre friends again, he added.

Watch Firstposts Interview with Ambassador John Bolton

Bolton interview irks Trump

Trump expressed his frustration with the media, interviewing Bolton, calling it unfair coverage. Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won. Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING, Trump wrote in the post on Wednesday.

The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!). If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal! But now theyve been caught. Look at all of the real news thats coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people who probably hate our Country. But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!! MAGA, he added.
PM Modi is likely to travel to the US for the UN General Assembly in the last week of September and will meet with Trump on the sidelines to discuss issues such as trade and tariffs

US President Donald Trump speaks with the press as he meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2025. (Photo: Jim Watson/AFP)

The central government is preparing for Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the US for a meeting with US President Donald Trump as tensions between the two countries simmer over tariffs.

According to a report by The Indian Express, PM Modi is likely to travel to the US for the UN General Assembly in the last week of September and will meet with Trump on the sidelines to discuss issues such as trade and tariffs. The two leaders are also likely to announce a trade deal during this visit.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday via X that he discussed plans for a personal meeting with the Indian Prime Minister at the UN General Assembly in September. While New Delhi has not officially responded to the announcement yet, PM Modi is listed as one of the speakers at the upcoming General Assembly session.

To initiate the visit, the Indian side has contacted the UN headquarters to secure a speaking slot for the Prime Minister at the UN General Assembly. As of now, PM Modi is scheduled to speak on the morning of September 26. US President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the Assembly on September 23.

Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, are set to meet in Alaska later this week in a major breakthrough meeting in the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks. PM Modis recent phone call with Ukraines Zelenskyy suggests that his possible visit to the US hinges on how the Trump-Putin meeting goes.

Meanwhile, Indian and American negotiators were close to finalising a deal, but Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with the terms of the deal. As a result, further discussions are needed, and new terms will have to be proposed, as both sides have now outlined clear red lines. Despite this, the focus remains on a shared objective, Mission 500, which aims to more than double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

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Malaysian officials have said that the global halal products market is currently valued at $3 trillion and is projected to reach $5 trillion by 2030. Among the key players in the halal market are Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand

Bangladeshs Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has sought the Malaysian governments help to establish a Halal Industrial Park during his trip to the country.

Yunus met with the Malaysian halal industry and government officials in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday to discuss the scope of tapping into the halal market amid its rapid expansion across the world.

Malaysian officials have said that the global halal products market is currently valued at $3 trillion and is projected to reach $5 trillion by 2030. Among the key players in the halal market are Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand.

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Bangladesh, home to the worlds third-largest Muslim population, has significant potential to join the market, provided it strengthens its infrastructure and certification systems. At present, the Islamic Foundation Bangladesh is the sole body authorised to certify halal products, with only 124 manufacturers certified so far, the Chief Advisers office said in a statement.

Bangladesh Seeks Malaysias Support to Establish Halal Industrial Park



Kuala Lumpur, August 13, 2025  Bangladesh has sought Malaysias assistance in developing a halal industrial park, aiming to tap into the rapidly expanding global halal products market.



Lets make a move on pic.twitter.com/iNJoVFICAD  Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) August 13, 2025

MoUs signed

Yunus met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his three-day visit, where the duo signed a number of MoUs covering areas from health to education.

Hailing the Bangladesh-Malaysia relationship as a deep bond rooted in history, religion, and cultural empathy, the two countries have agreed to recruit more skilled Bangladeshi professionals, such as doctors, engineers, security guards, and carers, under a government-to-government framework.

Malaysia assured Dhaka that Bangladeshi workers would receive the same social security benefits as Malaysian citizens, and that grievance mechanisms would be accessible in the Bangla language.

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Dhaka has also urged Graduate Pass visas for up to 10,000 Bangladeshi students to be enrolled in Malaysian universities.

Yunus invites Malaysian companies

While speaking at a business forum in Kuala Lumpur, Prof. Yunus encouraged Malaysian companies to invest in Bangladesh, emphasising recent reforms designed to make the country more conducive to business.

Business did not proceed in Bangladesh in the past the way I thought was possible. In New Bangladesh, many things are emerging, and one of those is business possibilities. Bangladesh is trying to become business-friendly in every possible way I found an unlimited prospect in changing Bangladesh, Yunus said.
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi will visit India next week to hold talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Wang and Doval are the special representatives of the two countries who lead talks related to the question of boundary.

The development has come at a time when India and China have taken a series of steps to improve their relationship in recent months.

Last year, India and China reached an understanding for the partial resolution of the standoff in Ladakh. Earlier this year, China resumed Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra and India resumed giving visas to Chinese tourists. The two sides are also likely to resume direct flights within weeks.

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Later this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China to attend the SCO Summit for the first time since 2020 when the India-China relationship nosedived over Chinese incursions in the Himalayas, particularly the Galwan Valley clash in which Chinese troops killed 20 Indian soldiers.

The meeting comes amid a flurry of Indias engagement with China and Russia at a time when Indias relationship with the United States has nosedived over tariffs. Trump has slapped 50 per cent tariffs on India  25 per cent tariff on July 31 and additional 25 per cent on August 6 over the purchase of Russian oil.

Despite these engagements, India-China relationship is far from normal. In fact, China has continued to proactively undermine India at every step and tensions dominate the bilateral relationship even they do not make frequent headlines.

For example, China has stopped the supply of rare earths to India even as it has resumed supplies to other countries. China has also stopped the supply of speciality fertilisers to India. China has also barred its engineers from working in Indian mobile factories in a bid to hurt Indias efforts to ramp up manufacturing and discourage foreign companies diversifying efforts.

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Above all, China has supported Pakistan to the hilt in its anti-India campaign. The Chinese support to Pakistan in the conflict in May was such that Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, the deputy army chief, said that China was a backdoor adversary in the conflict.

We had one border and two adversaries  actually three. Pakistan was in the front. China was providing all possible support  81 per cent of the military hardware with Pakistan is ChineseChina is able to test its weapons against other weapons, so its like a live lab available to them. Turkey also played an important role in providing the type of support it did, said Singh.
In the first half of 2025, China's passenger vehicle exports saw a clear shift toward new energy vehicle dominance, accompanied by increasing divergence across regional markets.

Mexico overtook Russia as the top export destination, with shipments rising 25.3% year-on-year to 224,000 units. The UAE (+58.3% YoY), Kazakhstan (+105.9% YoY), and Malaysia (+40.9% YoY) experienced explosive growth, while Russia (-59.4% YoY) and Brazil (-8.1% YoY) faced sharp declines due to stricter policy measures.

According to data compiled by the Gasgoo Automotive Research Institute, in the long term, deepening economic and trade cooperation between China and Europe, as well as between China and ASEAN, coupled with the development of regional production hubs, will drive Europe and Southeast Asia to become the key growth markets. This will lead to substantial increases in export volumes and market expansion. China's auto export growth model has shifted from "rising volume and prices" to "structural breakthroughs," with technology pathway choices and risk diversification capacity set to become decisive factors for success.

Top 10 destination countries by China's passenger vehicle exports

Mexico: 34,306 units in June and 223,579 units (+25.3% YoY) from January to June

UAE: 36,413 units in June and 213,276 units (+58.3% YoY) from January to June

Russia: 24,043 units in June and 170,246 units (59.4% YoY) from January to June

Brazil: 18,982 units in June and 152,599 units (8.1% YoY) from January to June

Belgium: 23,597 units in June and 147,148 units (+7.2% YoY) from January to June

UK: 27,486 units in June and 131,279 units (+18.7% YoY) from January to June

Saudi Arabia: 23,059 units in June and 119,018 units (+24.4% YoY) from January to June

Australia: 15,696 units in June and 115,088 units (+41.5% YoY) from January to June

Kazakhstan: 17,745 units in June and 77,562 units (+105.9% YoY) from January to June

Malaysia: 13,210 units in June and 75,156 units (+40.9% YoY) from January to June

In H1 2025, Mexico took the lead with 224,000 units shipped (+25.3% YoY). One of the key growth drivers was the deepening localization efforts by brands such as BYD. For example, BYD's Seagull and Song PLUS DM-i models have gained strong popularity in the Mexican market due to their high cost performance. Jorge Vallejo Sanchez, CEO of BYD Mexico, noted that the company has established nearly 100 dealerships across the country, a move expected to further strengthen its market leadership. He also revealed that in 2026, BYD plans to launch a new model in Mexico with a combined driving range of up to 2,000 kilometers.

The Middle East market also saw explosive growth over the same period. The UAE ranked second globally with 213,000 units (+58.3% YoY), while Saudi Arabia followed with 119,000 units (+24.4% YoY), supported by their ongoing electrification drives. Chinese automakers expanded rapidly in the region: BYD opened a flagship store in Dubai featuring models such as the YANGWANG U8; XPENG partnered with UAE dealer Ali & Sons; and Zeekr launched an experience center in Dubai's premium business district. Parallel exports also contributed significantly to the overall increase.

Russia stands out as a case of sharp market volatility. In H1 2025, China's passenger vehicle exports to Russia plunged 59.4% YoY to 170,246 units, primarily due to policy headwinds. Since October 2024, vehicle scrappage taxes have been raised by 70%85%, with an additional 10%20% hike scheduled annually from January 2025 onward. A high-interest lending environment has further dampened consumer demand, while growing concerns over the quality of Chinese vehiclesparticularly their cold-weather adaptabilityhave forced manufacturers to accelerate technical upgrades. Even so, Chinese brands retained a relatively stable 58.7% share of Russia's passenger vehicle market in the first half, marking a shift from rapid export expansion to market stabilization.

In Europe, Belgium (144,000 units, +7.2% YoY) and the UK (131,000 units, +18.7% YoY) remained key battlegrounds for both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In Southeast Asia, markets such as Malaysia (75,000 units, +40.9% YoY) posted rapid gains, leveraging KD assembly and localized production to accelerate market penetration.

Notably, Kazakhstan emerged as the standout dark horse, with exports surging 105.9% YoY to 78,000 units. Next, we take a closer look at this high-potential market.

Currently, Kazakhstan's new vehicle market holds significant potential. According to the leading local news outlet TENGRI NEWS, nearly 70% of vehicles in Kazakhstan are over 10 years old, creating strong demand for replacements.

Kazakhstan's automotive market remains dominated by internal combustion engine vehicles, but the electric vehicle segment is now in a phase of rapid expansion. Under the "Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy" and "Green Economy Concept of Kazakhstan," NEVs are targeted to account for more than 30% of new vehicle sales by 2030 and 50% by 2035. Since 2023, the government has designated NEVs as a priority investment sector, steadily increasing support through industrial planning, financial subsidies, and investment promotion. Key measures include purchase tax exemptions for NEVs and the rollout of a "Clean Mobility Infrastructure Program," which aims to install at least 2,000 public charging stations nationwide by 2026.

The Kazakhstan market saw a mix of new entrants and established brands advancing simultaneously. New players such as BYD Auto, Lynk & Co, GAC HYPTEC, and XPENG made their debut, while brands like Geely Auto and Changan Auto continued steady expansion through deepened local partnerships. Early in the year, BYD partnered with Astana Motors to hold product launch events in Almaty and Astana, officially entering Kazakhstan with flagship models including the Han EV and Song PLUS EV and DM-i. Starting in Q2 2025, Lynk & Co began sales of the Lynk 03 and Lynk 09 through its dealer Orbis Auto. GAC HYPTEC promoted its smart electric vehicle HL via local showroom displays and test-drive events, while XPENG remains in the market education phase with pilot sales through dealers. Notably, the Astana Motors Manufacturing Kazakhstan plantinvested in by the local automaker Astana Groupcommenced production this year, initially producing four Chinese brands: Changan Auto, Chery Auto, Haval, and TANK models, marking a significant milestone in localizing production.

In addition to the entry of multiple Chinese brands into the market, the expansion of trade and transportation routes has become a key factor boosting Chinese passenger vehicle exports to Kazakhstan. Earlier this year, KTZ Express, a subsidiary of Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ), partnered with China Railway Container Transport Co., Ltd. (CRCT) to launch a new container transport service, inaugurating a China-Europe rail route that passes through the Middle Corridor. This route bypasses Russia, providing a direct link for Chinese goods to reach Europe.

Top 10 destination countries by China's new energy passenger vehicle exports

Belgium: 23,237 units in June and 142,543 units (+10.3% YoY) from January to June

Brazil: 10,469 units in June and 113,231 units (-13.1% YoY) from January to June

United Kingdom: 18,549 units in June and 90,107 units (+19.8% YoY) from January to June

Mexico: 11,603 units in June and 80,706 units (+135.8% YoY) from January to June

Australia: 9,947 units in June and 51,492 units (+21.9% YoY) from January to June

UAE: 7,887 units in June and 44,349 units (+23.0% YoY) from January to June

Thailand: 5,707 units in June and 43,983 units (+16.5% YoY) from January to June

Spain: 9,890 units in June and 42,459 units (+51.5% YoY) from January to June

Israel: 10,153 units in June and 42,315 units (+100.2% YoY) from January to June

Indonesia: 9,480 units in June and 39,686 units (+113.3% YoY) from January to June

NEV export rankings show steady growth in mature European markets. Belgium (142,543 units, +10.3% YoY) and the UK (90,107 units, +19.8% YoY) hold their positions under strict carbon emission policies, while Spain (42,459 units, +51.5% YoY) stands out as the fastest-growing market, driven by the extension of the MOVES III subsidy program.

Policy incentives in Latin America and the Middle East are unlocking substantial growth. Mexico (80,706 units, +135.8% YoY) leads the surge, driven by deeper local engagement from Chinese automakers such as BYD. Israel (42,315 units, +100.2% YoY) is benefiting from rising demand for battery technology cooperation, while the UAE (44,349 units, +23.0% YoY) is channeling "Vision 2030" infrastructure investments to accelerate the premiumization of Chinese vehicles.

However, higher import tariffs weighed on passenger vehicle exports to Brazil, which fell 13.1% in H1 2025 to 113,231 units. Since January 2024, the Brazilian government has been gradually reinstating tariffs on NEVs, with further increases scheduled each July. This July, tariffs on BEVs rose from 18% to 25%, while PHEVs increased from 20% to 28%.

The Southeast Asian market shows structural growth, led by Indonesia (39,686 units, +113.3% YoY) and Thailand (44,000 units, +16.5% YoY). This surge is mainly driven by tax incentives and accelerated localization of production.

Overall, Chinese automakers should stay alert in the short term to the cost impact of the EU's carbon border tax on exports and to trade policy volatility in markets such as Russia and Brazil. In the medium to long term, they must localize supply chainssuch as BYD's plant in Braziland strengthen ESG compliance to align with global carbon neutrality goals. Meanwhile, leveraging policy opportunities in emerging markets like Indonesia and Mexico will be essential to shift from "export volume leadership" to "brand value enhancement."
India has rejected the Permanent Court of Arbitrations role in the Indus Waters Treaty dispute, citing procedural flaws in the World Banks 2022 decision, as Pakistan escalates rhetoric over water rights.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said that the enemy cant snatch even a single drop of water as he joined the countrys military leadership in ramping up rhetoric over the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).

His statement came after India reiterated its decision to hold the treatys dispute resolution process in abeyance, citing procedural objections that Islamabad has long ignored.

At the heart of the disagreement lies Indias refusal to recognise the jurisdiction of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the ongoing dispute. The Hague-based tribunal has reportedly ruled that India must let flow the waters of the Western Rivers the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab for Pakistans unrestricted use under the treaty.

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New Delhi has consistently maintained that it never accepted the World Banks 2022 decision to simultaneously activate two parallel processes, a neutral expert mechanism and at Pakistans insistence, the Court of Arbitration to adjudicate the same set of technical objections. India argued that such concurrent proceedings pose both practical and legal challenges and formally sought a reconsideration of the treatys dispute settlement provisions.

Despite acknowledging Indias concerns, the World Bank in October 2022 appointed both a neutral expert and a Court of Arbitration. This, officials in New Delhi say, undermines the procedural safeguards intended by the 1960 treaty and sets a precedent that could weaken the framework for resolving future differences.

With Pakistan signalling it will press ahead with its case at the PCA and India refusing to participate in its proceedings, the stalemate over the IWTs dispute resolution mechanism appears far from over and now, political posturing on both sides threatens to overshadow the complex legal issues at its core.
Between February and July, DOGEs verifiable savings from cancelled contracts came to about $1.4 billion, far short of the $32.7 billion the agency claimed for that period. How did the numbers get so inflated?

A man sprays paint graffiti against Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) on a Tesla showroom in New York, US, April 22, 2025, in this still image taken from video. Extinction Rebellion NYC via Reuters

The Trump administrations flagship cost-cutting agency, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), says it has saved taxpayers more than $54 billion by tearing up federal contracts and taking a hard line on spending. A closer look at public data suggests those claims are greatly inflated.

An analysis of federal spending records by POLITICO found that between February and July, DOGEs verifiable savings from cancelled contracts came to about $1.4 billion, far short of the $32.7 billion the agency claimed for that period.

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Even then, none of that money will reduce the federal deficit unless Congress takes back the funds. Under current law, most of it stays with the agencies, which must spend it.

Counting credit limits as cash in hand

DOGE uses the maximum possible value of each contract as its baseline for savings  the ceiling value, not the amount actually committed. Contract experts say that approach is like canceling a credit card with a $20,000 limit and claiming you just saved $20,000. In many cases, these ceiling figures far exceed what the government was likely to spend.

The White House insists DOGEs data is sound. Spokesman Harrison Fields said the figures are rigorously scrubbed with agency officials and updated in real time. But POLITICO found that about 40 per cent of claimed savings from posted contracts could not be verified because DOGE withheld identifying details.

Lowering the ceiling instead of closing the account

In many cases, DOGE is not canceling contracts outright but lowering their ceiling values. That reduces the theoretical maximum cost, but it does not mean those dollars would have been spent. For the contracts that could be traced, ceiling reductions totaled about $14 billion well below the $32.7 billion in claimed savings.

Some cancelled contracts have even been restarted. At the Department of Veterans Affairs, DOGE claimed $932 million in savings from cancellations, including a suicide prevention services contract. Records show the VA recovered only $132 million, then reinstated the suicide prevention work.

Headline figures vs. reality on the ground

One of DOGEs largest single claims involves a migrant shelter contract in Pecos, Texas. DOGE said canceling it would save $2.9 billion. In reality, the maximum savings before the contracts scheduled review date in November would be about $126 million  roughly 4 per cent of DOGEs claim. The inflated number came from subtracting the $428 million actually obligated from the $3.3 billion ceiling.

Another example is a consulting contract at the Energy Department to help set appliance efficiency standards. DOGE listed it as canceled, claiming $166 million in savings. The department says it was reduced, not cancelled, and that the real change was lowering the ceiling by just under $100 million. No funds have been returned.

Hard to measure, harder to prove

Experts note that true savings from canceling contracts are difficult to calculate. Terminations can trigger extra costs such as paying for work already done, settling leases, or covering subcontractors expenses. Those bills can take years to finalise.

By law, agencies must spend the money Congress gives them, even if a contract is canceled. They can shift it to other priorities but cannot simply leave it unspent without a formal rescission from Congress.

A shrinking wall of receipts

DOGEs online wall of receipts, a public log of terminated contracts, has seen slower updates since Elon Musk left the agency in May. The page went weeks without new entries this summer. Musk has since turned on Trump, criticising a spending bill the president signed in July and promising to launch his own third party to push for deeper cuts.

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For now, DOGEs lofty savings numbers remain a staple of administration talking points. But federal records suggest the truth lies somewhere in the middle, well below the headline figures and far above zero, with the real impact still years from being known.
White House officials are in Alaska to find a venue for the meeting, a task that has not yielded any success till now. The process of locking in a venue is especially difficult at a time when the tourist season is at its peak

US President Donald Trump said on August 8, 2025 he would meet with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska, as the Republican billionaire hopes to help mediate an end to the war in Ukraine. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP)

White House officials are pulling out all the stops to ensure that the upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, is a successful engagement as the Ukraine war drags on.

The high-stakes meeting between Trump and Putin, when the US president has been taking a tougher approach toward Moscow by approving the delivery of more US weapons to Ukraine and warning of tariffs on countries that purchase Russian oil.

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The struggle to find a venue

Meanwhile, White House officials are in Alaska to find a venue for the meeting, a task that has not yielded any success till now. The process of locking in a venue is especially difficult at a time when the tourist season is at its peak.

According to a report by CNN, organisers of the summit quickly concluded that Anchorage was the only city in the vast state with suitable options for hosting the event. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located on the citys northern edge, emerged as the only site that could meet the strict security requirements for the historic meeting. However, the White House had hoped to avoid the optics of receiving the Russian leader and his entourage at a US military installation.

The Russian foreign ministry this week said that US State Secretary Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held talks to discuss certain aspects of preparation.

The president feels like, look, Ive got to look at this guy across the table. I need to see him face to face. I need to hear him one-on-one. I need to make an assessment by looking at him, Rubio said during an interview with Sid Rosenberg.

After extensive behind-the-scenes negotiations, the Trump administration and the Kremlin agreed on Alaska as the location for the summit, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Few venues were deemed suitable for the meeting, especially in light of the war crimes warrant issued for Putins arrest by the International Criminal Court in 2023.

European leaders to hold talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to hold talks with the US and Ukrainian presidents and European leaders on Wednesday, two days ahead of a US-Russia summit in Alaska, his office said.

Merzs office said Monday he would discuss the Ukraine war with leaders from Finland, France, the UK, Italy, Poland, Ukraine, the heads of the European Commission and Council, the secretary general of NATO, as well as the US president and his deputy.

They would discuss further options to exert pressure on Russia and the preparation of possible peace negotiations and related issues of territorial claims and security, the statement said.

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With inputs from agencies
Irish President Michael D Higgins has condemned recent attacks on members of the Indian community, calling them despicable and against Irelands values, as concerns mount over a rise in racially motivated violence.

Irish President Michael D Higgins on Tuesday strongly condemned recent attacks on members of the Indian community, calling them despicable and a betrayal of Irelands values.

In a statement, Higgins expressed deep gratitude for the Indian communitys immense contribution to Irish life, praising their work in medicine, nursing, care, culture, business, and enterprise. Their presence, their work, their culture have been a source of enrichment and generosity to our shared life, he said.

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His remarks come amid mounting concern over racially motivated violence. In recent weeks, Indian-origin residents have faced a spate of assaults, prompting the Indian Embassy in Dublin to issue a safety advisory urging citizens to avoid deserted areas and remain vigilant, citing an increase in physical attacks against Indians.

Recalling the historical bonds between the two nations, from shared struggles for independence to Irishwoman Margaret Cousins role in founding the All India Womens Conference, Higgins said such acts of violence diminish all of us and obscure the immeasurable benefits the people of India have brought to this country. He warned that messages of hate or incitement to violence, including those spread on social media, corrode the Irish traditions of hospitality, friendship, and care for others.

These principles must apply to all who form part of Irish society today, without exception, he stressed, adding that Ireland must remain a place where all communities can live in safety, dignity, and mutual respect.

The warnings follow several violent incidents in recent weeks. On July 19, a 40-year-old Amazon employee from India, in Ireland for just three weeks, was beaten, stabbed in the face, and partially stripped by a teenage gang in Tallaght, Dublin. Authorities are treating the case as a possible hate crime. Jennifer Murray, an Irish woman who intervened, said in a video the next day that at least four Indian men and another man have been facially stabbed by this gang of teenagers. She said the victim required a brain scan and was left completely scarred for life.

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Washingtons terror designation of BLA aligns with strategic mineral interests in Pakistan, bolstering Asim Munirs crackdown on dissent and signaling a new phase in US-Pakistan ties amid growing competition with China

The Trump administrations decision to designate the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) appears to be closely linked to growing US interest in Pakistans untapped rare earth reserves, according to The Economic Times report, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The US move also strengthens Field Marshal Asim Munirs position in cracking down on Baloch political activists while paving the way for American mining companies to gain a foothold in Pakistans largest province, believed to hold significant rare earth deposits.

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According to the report, the move, which comes amid deepening US-Pakistan relations in Donald Trumps second term, is being viewed as part of a broader strategic effort to reduce American dependence on Chinese rare earth exports.

Over the past six months, Islamabad and Washington have intensified discussions on rare earth extraction  a shift seen as pivotal in resetting bilateral ties, added the report.

Pakistan persuades Trump

Pakistan seems to have successfully persuaded the Trump administration that controlling BLA is crucial for accessing critical minerals in the region, reported ET, citing analysts.

The BLA has long opposed state presence and foreign investments in Balochistan, a resource-rich but conflict-ridden province where Chinas controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) also runs.

The Trump administrations growing interest in Balochistans rare earth potential comes amid stalled US-China trade talks, where Beijings near-monopoly on rare earth supply has been a sticking point.

Trump has previously signaled intentions to diversify sources for strategic minerals, a push that has now brought Pakistan into sharper focus.

Diplomatic observers remain cautious, noting that any suggestion of US military involvement in Balochistan  similar to the Afghan model  could face serious resistance, reported ET.

The regions rugged terrain and a populace wary of foreign intervention may replicate the challenges faced during Americas two-decade-long war in Afghanistan.

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Chinas response uncertain

While Beijing has historically supported Pakistans actions against BLA, its response to increased US economic and strategic engagement in Balochistan remains uncertain. China has heavily invested in infrastructure projects across the province, particularly around the strategic Gwadar Port, a CPEC centerpiece.

Local opposition to Chinese-funded ventures has simmered for years, with residents accusing Beijing of exploiting the regions resources without delivering economic benefits or respecting local autonomy. This presents a delicate balancing act for both Islamabad and Beijing in managing foreign influence.

The timing of the BLA designation also coincides with Munirs visit to Washington and a newly inked US-Pakistan trade framework.

While Pakistan currently holds a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, its unclear whether it will push for further international action against BLA.

However, sources indicate that the militant groups lack of affiliation with Al-Qaeda or its affiliates makes a designation under the UNs 1267 Sanctions Committee unlikely. Still, the US move could set the stage for a rare moment of alignment between China and the US, both backing Pakistans internal security concerns  although for very different reasons.

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With inputs from agencies
Israel is in talks with South Sudan over a plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, according to an Associated Press report citing officials, a proposal that has drawn criticism amid concerns.

Palestinians, displaced by the Israeli offensive, shelter in tents, amid a hunger crisis, in Gaza City, August 1, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Israel is in discussions with South Sudan about a plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to the East African nation, The Associated Press reported, citing multiple officials.

The talks form part of Israels broader strategy to encourage mass emigration from Gaza, which has been left in ruins after a 22-month military offensive against Hamas.

If enacted, the proposal would transfer people from one conflict-scarred, famine-threatened region to another, a move raising significant human rights concerns.

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Netanyahu backs voluntary migration

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he supports what he calls voluntary migration, in line with Donald Trumps earlier vision of relocating much of Gazas population. Israel has floated similar proposals with other African states.

Speaking to i24 TV on Tuesday, Netanyahu argued civilians should be allowed to leave before the military targets remaining Hamas fighters, though he made no direct reference to South Sudan.

According to the report, Palestinian leaders, rights organisations, and much of the international community have rejected the idea, describing it as a plan for forced expulsion that would violate international law.

Potential political gains for South Sudan

For South Sudan, such a deal could bolster ties with Israel and possibly improve relations with Trump, who raised the relocation idea in February before appearing to step back from it.

Joe Szlavik, head of a US lobbying firm working with South Sudan, said South Sudanese officials had informed him that an Israeli delegation is expected to visit to assess the feasibility of setting up camps for Palestinians, likely funded by Israel.

Regional opposition and earlier relocation talks

South Sudan, which remains under US sanctions and subject to a travel ban, hopes closer ties with Trump could lead to the easing of restrictions. The country, facing severe economic strain, has already accepted eight deportees from the US, a move some interpret as an attempt to curry favour.

Israels connection to South Sudan dates back to its independence struggle, when Mossad is reported to have assisted rebels against Sudans Arab-led government.

While some Palestinians may wish to leave Gaza temporarily to escape war and worsening hunger, most reject any permanent resettlement from what they regard as their homeland.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will hold talks with Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar on August 21 in Moscow, according to the countrys foreign ministry.

Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar is seen in the photograph published on December 27, 2023, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, Russia, during a visit to the country during Dec. 25-29, 2023. (Photo: X/S Jaishankar)

Russia on Wednesday said that Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar will visit Moscow on August 21 to hold talks with Sergey Lavrov, the countrys foreign minister.

The ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks, the Russian foreign ministry said in a brief statement.

Jaishankars visit to Russia would come within weeks of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's visit to Russia. These visits, while believed to be scheduled beforehand, are taking place at a time when the India-US relationship has nosedived with the imposition of 50 per cent American tariffs on India for the purchase of Russian oil. US President Donald Trump has accused India of funding the Russian war on Ukraine with oil purchases.

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By the end of the year, Russian leader Vladimir Putin , which would be his first visit to the country since he launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leading to diplomatic isolation in the world.

Later this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also visit China to attend the SCO Summit. Putin is also expected to attend the summit.

In the wake of Trumps tariff war on the world, which is set to hit India the hardest, there have been suggestions that India should work with Russia and China bilaterally or multilaterally in forums like the RIC to seek alternatives to the US export market.

However, it has been highlighted the reality that RIC will be a China-dominated group and not be in Indias favour. After all, even though India and China have partially resolved the standoff in Ladakh and have taken steps like resuming visas and Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, the relationship remains far from normal.

For example, China has continued to block rare earth supplies to India. China has also blocked the supply of speciality fertilisers. China has blocked its engineers from working in mobile factories in India in a bid to stop Indias progress in ramping up domestic manufacturing.

The India-China standoff in Ladakh is also far from resolution as only partial rollback of forward deployment of personnel and war-waging equipment has taken place and broader de-escalation is yet to take place and patrolling at all areas of contention is yet to be restored.

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President Lula da Silva has rebuked Donald Trumps escalating campaign against the countrys judiciary, saying the US leader would face trial in Brazil if the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots had happened there. Read here

Brazilian President Lula da Silva has pushed back against President Donald Trumps campaign targeting the countrys judiciary, saying the US leader would face trial in Brazil had the January 6 US Capitol attacks taken place there, the Guardian reported.

Lulas comments come amid what analysts describe as one of the deepest diplomatic rifts between Washington and Brasilia in decades. Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports and sanctioned a supreme court justice, the moves which are widely considered as an attempt to aid Trumps far-right ally and former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces up to 40 years in prison over allegations of plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election to Lula.

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Bolsonaro could face up to 40 years in prison when Brazils supreme court delivers its verdict in the coming weeks. Trump has denounced the case as a witch-hunt and urged Brazilian authorities to drop the charges.

Lula also dismissed US criticism of Brazils human rights record after the State Departments annual report accused his administration of stifling democratic debate and restricting the speech of Bolsonaro supporters, journalists, and elected officials. There was really no reason to hit Brazil with tariffs, and nor will we accept being told that we dont respect human rights here in Brazil, Lula said.

Drawing a sharp contrast between Brazils handling of political unrest and Trumps pardons for January 6 participants, Lula noted that 141 people are serving prison terms for joining the 8 January 2023 riots in Brasilia, which prosecutors say formed part of Bolsonaros coup attempt. In the US, Trump granted full, complete and unconditional pardons to about 1,500 people involved in the Capitol assault soon after taking office last year.

Lula urged Brazilians not to be intimidated by Trumps pressure campaign, adding that his administration had repeatedly tried to negotiate with Washington before the tariffs were enacted. According to Brazilian diplomats, those overtures went unanswered, with key decisions reportedly taken within Trumps inner circle, a group to which they had no access.

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Unveiling a long-anticipated aid package on Wednesday to offset the impact of steep US tariffs, Brazils government said it would offer credit lines for exporters and increase government purchases of goods struggling to find new markets.

A delegation of Brazilian senators travelled to Washington in the final week of July in a last-ditch effort to defuse tensions. The group, led by Senator Nelsinho Trad, met with business leaders with ties to Brazil and nine US senators, only one of them Republican, Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

We found views on Brazil were ideologically charged, Trad told The AP. But we made an effort to present economic arguments.

While the delegation was in Washington, Trump signed the order imposing the 50% tariff. But there was relief: not all Brazilian imports would be hit. Exemptions included civil aircraft and parts, aluminium, tin, wood pulp, energy products and fertilizers.

Trad believes Brazils outreach may have helped soften the final terms.

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I think the path has to remain one of dialogue and reason so we can make progress on other fronts, he said.

With inputs from agencies
I think he (Netanyahu) has lost the plot. What we are seeing overnight, the attack on Gaza City, is utterly, utterly unacceptable, said Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

As New Zealand weighs up whether to recognise a Palestinian state, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Wednesday said that Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had lost the plot.

Luxon condemned the lack of humanitarian aid, the forced displacement of civilians, and the annexation of Gaza as deeply appalling, stating that Netanyahu had gone far beyond acceptable limits.

I think he has lost the plot, Reuters quoted Luxon, who heads the centre-right coalition government, as saying.

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What we are seeing overnight, the attack on Gaza City, is utterly, utterly unacceptable, he added.

Earlier this week, Luxon said New Zealand was considering whether to formally recognise a Palestinian state. On Monday, close ally Australia announced it would support recognition at a UN conference in September, joining Canada, the UK, and France.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached what several Western nations described as unimaginable levels.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, Britain, Canada, Australia, and several European allies urged Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into the conflict-ravaged enclave.

Israel has rejected blame for the worsening hunger in Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting aid shipments, an allegation Hamas denies.

Meanwhile, ahead of Wednesdays parliamentary session, a small group of protesters gathered outside the national parliament, banging pots and pans in a show of dissent.

According to local outlet Stuff, demonstrators chanted, MPs grow a spine, recognise Palestine.

Tensions inside the chamber were also high. On Tuesday, Green MP Chloe Swarbrick was ejected from Parliament after refusing to apologise for a remark suggesting government MPs lacked courage for not backing a bill to sanction Israel over alleged war crimes.

Swarbrick was again ordered to leave the chamber on Wednesday for repeating her refusal to apologise. When she declined to comply, the government moved to formally suspend her.

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Sixty-eight members of this House were accused of being spineless," House speaker Gerry Brownlee said. There has never been a time where personal insults like that delivered inside a speech were accepted by this House and Im not going to start accepting it.

As Swarbrick left, she called out free Palestine.

With inputs from agencies
Sidelined in the Alaska summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Germany to join European partners in a meeting with US President Donald Trump. Together, the European leaders will press Trump to not sell out their interests in any deal with Vladimir Putin.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz walks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, May 28, 2025. (Photo: Annegret Hilse/Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy travelled to Berlin on Wednesday for a German-hosted virtual meeting with Donald Trump and European leaders, two days before the US president meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Europes leaders are trying to drive home the perils of selling out Kyivs interests at the first US-Russia summit since 2021.

Trump has said the Alaska talks will be a feel-out meeting as he pursues a ceasefire in Moscows war on Ukraine, having said last week, to consternation in Kyiv and Europe, that any deal would involve some swapping of territories.

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Zelenskyy will meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz before a video conference with the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union at 2 pm (1200 GMT), the hosts said. Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte will also attend.

Trump and Vice President JD Vance will join the call at 3 pm (1300 GMT).

Europe and Kyiv fear unpredictable Alaska deal

The unpredictability of the summit in Alaska has fuelled Europeans fears that the US and Russia could take far-reaching decisions over their heads and even seek to coerce Ukraine into an unfavourable deal.

We are focusing now to ensure that it does not happen  engaging with US partners and staying coordinated and united on the European side. Still a lot of time until Friday, said one senior official from Eastern Europe.

European leaders, wary of angering Trump, have repeatedly said they welcome his efforts while stressing that there should be no deal about Ukraine almost a fifth of which Russia has occupied without Ukraines participation.

Trumps administration tempered expectations on Tuesday for major progress toward a ceasefire, calling his meeting with Putin in Alaska a listening exercise.

Trumps agreement last week to the summit with Putin was an abrupt shift after weeks of voicing frustration with Putin for resisting the US peace initiative. Trump said his envoy had made great progress at talks in Moscow.

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Half a dozen senior European officials told Reuters that they see a risk of a deal being struck that is unfavourable for Europe and Ukraines security. They said European unity would be vital if that happened.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday the summit would be a listening exercise for Trump to hear what it would take to get to a deal.

After the meeting with Trump, the coalition of the willing, a group of countries working on plans to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, will also convene online.

Battlefield pressure mounts on Ukraine

A Gallup poll released last week found that 69 per cent of Ukrainians favour a negotiated end to the war as soon as possible. But polls also indicate Ukrainians do not want peace at any cost if that means crushing concessions.

Ahead of the calls, Zelenskyy said it would be impossible for Kyiv to agree to a deal that would require it to withdraw its troops from the eastern Donbas region, a large swathe of which is already occupied by Russia.

That, he told reporters on Tuesday, would deprive Ukraine of a vast defensive network in the region, easing the way for a Russian push deeper into Ukraine in the future.

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He said territorial issues could only be discussed once a ceasefire was in place and Ukraine had received security guarantees.

Moscows troops have recently ramped up pressure on the battlefield, tightening their stranglehold on the cities of Pokrovsk and Kostyantynivka in eastern Ukraine.

(This is a wire copy. Except for the headline, the copy has not been edited by Firstpost staff.)
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Pony.ai reported robust second-quarter (Q2) revenue growth in 2025, driven by surging demand and rapid expansion of its Robotaxi operations. The company posted 154 million yuan (USD 21.5 million) in revenue, up 75.9% year-on-year and 53.5% from the previous quarter, with passenger fare income from its Robotaxi services surging over 300% year-on-year to become the primary growth engine.

Photo credit: Pony.ai

Fleet expansion has been central to this momentum. By the end of the quarter, Pony.ai's Robotaxi fleet surpassed 500 vehicles, with CEO James Peng confident the company will reach 1,000 units by year-end. Much of the progress stems from the mass production of its seventh-generation Robotaxi, developed with BAIC Group and GAC Group, which entered stable output in June with output of more than 200 units in just two months.

The new model, built entirely with automotive-grade components, has slashed autonomous driving hardware costs by 70% compared with its predecessor, while offering a design lifespan of 10 years or 600,000 kilometers. This cost efficiency is helping to accelerate large-scale deployment, with the Robotaxi segment generating 10.9 million yuan (around USD 1.5 million) in revenue during Q2a 157.8% spike from last year.

Pony.ai's Robotaxi services now operate fully driverless in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, covering over 2,000 square kilometers. The company has also introduced 24/7 ride-hailing service in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, addressing late-night travel needs, and is conducting around-the-clock testing in major Chinese cities and Seoul.

Internationally, the company is pushing ahead with plans to launch commercial services abroad. It is partnering with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to begin road testing in 2025 and achieve fully driverless operations in 2026. In Europe, it began testing in Luxembourg in June, with expansion planned across the region, while in South Korea it has been running 24/7 trials in Seoul's Gangnam district since April under a national-level testing permit.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have pledged to boost cooperation ahead of Putins upcoming summit with Donald Trump in Alaska, Pyongyangs state media said.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend a state reception in Pyongyang, North Korea, June 19, 2024. File Image/Sputnik via Reuters

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un have vowed to strengthen cooperation, days ahead of Putins summit in Alaska with Donald Trump, Pyongyangs state media reported Wednesday.

Putin and Kim spoke by phone in a warm comradely atmosphere on Tuesday and confirmed their will to strengthen cooperation in the future, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Putin expressed appreciation for the self-sacrificing spirit displayed by service personnel of the Korean Peoples Army in liberating Kursk, KCNA added, a reference to North Koreas participation in Russias war on Ukraine.

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Kim in turn pledged that North Korea would fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too.

US President Trump is expected to press Russia to end the Ukraine war during their meeting in Alaska on Friday.

Russia and North Korea have forged closer ties in recent years, with Pyongyang supplying troops and weapons for Russias military operations in Ukraine.

The two countries signed a mutual defence pact last year, when Putin visited the reclusive state.

North Korea confirmed for the first time in April that it had deployed a contingent of its soldiers to the front line in Ukraine, alongside Russian troops.
Trump accused the media of relying on commentary from what he described as fired losers and really dumb people, singling out former National Security Advisor John Bolton

US President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G-20 Summit on July 7, 2017, in Hamburg, Germany. File image/ AP

Ahead of the meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders, US President Donald on Wednesday slammed the media for unfair coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russias Vladimir Putin.

Trump accused the media of relying on commentary from what he described as fired losers and really dumb people, singling out former National Security Advisor John Bolton.

Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won. Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!).

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The president also suggested that even if he secured a favourable deal with Russia, such as acquiring territory like Moscow and Leningrad, the media would still frame it negatively.

If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal! But now theyve been caught. Look at all of the real news thats coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country. But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!! MAGA he added.

Trump had previously threatened to impose sanctions and secondary tariffs if Moscow did not take steps toward a ceasefire by Friday, August 8. However, no punitive measures were enacted, despite the lack of progress from the Kremlin.

Instead, following a visit to Moscow by Trumps envoy, a direct meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was scheduled for August 15.

Notably, Zelenskyy  who has repeatedly requested a face-to-face meeting with Putin to help bring an end to the war  was not invited to the talks, which are set to take place in Alaska.

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Trump previously floated the idea of swapping Ukrainian territories during the upcoming talks, an idea firmly rejected by Kyiv and Europe as they are all Ukrainian territories.

Some, including Zelenskyy, have also likened the meeting, which provided an audience with Putin on US soil, as a political victory for the Russian leader.

While Trump has publicly raised the idea of a possible land swap as part of a broader resolution, both the White House and the State Department downplayed expectations on Tuesday, describing the Alaska summit as a listening exercise rather than a formal negotiation.

With inputs from agencies
Illicit mining operations in nations like Indonesia, where oversight is frequently compromised and enforcement is lax, are now contributing to meeting that demand

A growing network of Chinese-led syndicates is fueling an increase in illicit gold mining throughout Indonesia, turning small-scale, traditional operations into large-scale businesses and igniting concerns about corruption, environmental damage, and geopolitical risk.

Demand for gold has surged as a result of China increasing its gold reserves as part of a larger plan to lessen reliance on the US dollar. Illicit mining operations in nations like Indonesia, where oversight is frequently compromised and enforcement is lax, are now contributing to meeting that demand, according to a recent Washington Post investigation.

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Local communities pushed aside

What were formerly unofficial, artisanal mining sites have evolved into highly mechanised areas controlled by Chinese investors and operators in areas like West Kalimantan and West Nusa Tenggara. These syndicates extract gold on a scale well beyond the law, frequently without the necessary permits or safety precautions, using imported heavy machinery, chemical leaching systems, and a large number of local workers.

In one instance, Chinese investors allegedly made over $5.5 million a month from illicit mining in Lomboks Sekotong district before local communities rebelled due to contaminated water and disappearing farmland. Only after villagers set fire to the mining site in August 2024, forcing authorities to step in, was the operation shut down.

Yu Hao, a Chinese national, was arrested in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, for running a gold mine without a license in another well-known case. According to the prosecution, his company used shell corporations and falsified documents to unlawfully extract more than $67 million worth of gold and silver. Despite being found guilty and given a prison sentence, a local court controversially reversed the decision; however, in response to public outcry, Indonesias Supreme Court later upheld the verdict.

Environmental Damage and Global Supply Chain Risks

These mining mafias sometimes operate under dormant mining licenses, bribe local officials, and take advantage of legal grey areas. Investigators caution that the criminal networks responsible for them are cross-provincial and could be connected to international smuggling rings and money laundering schemes. According to analysts, the illicit gold trade now generates more than $30 billion a year worldwide.

The effects on the environment are dire. Gold processing uses cyanide and mercury, which have ruined crops, contaminated groundwater and rivers, and increased health problems in the communities around them. Due to corruption or the influence of well-funded foreign actors, local authorities frequently do nothing.

Despite international concerns, China has refused to engage in multinational efforts to regulate illegal gold flows, and its gold import practices remain opaque. Analysts warn that without coordinated global action, tainted gold will continue to enter legitimate markets, undermining supply chain integrity and fueling further environmental damage.
China has accused the United States of violating its sovereignty and undermining its security after a US warship entered the waters off the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, which China claims and calls Huangyan Island. The international community largely recognises the Philippines claim on the island.

The photograph shows the guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins conducting an independent deployer certification exercise off the coast of Southern California on April 30, 2015. (Photo: US Navy)

China on Wednesday said that a US warship violated its sovereignty and undermined its security by intruding into its territorial waters in the South China Sea.

China said that USS Higgins, a destroyer part of the Japan-headquartered 7th Fleet of the US Navy, intruded into its territorial waters off the Huangyan Island and was driven by Chinese navy. The United States has rejected the accusation.

The navy mobilised forces to monitor, track, warn, and drive away USS Higgins, spokesperson Senior Colonel He Tiesheng said in a statement in in Chinese.

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Huangyan Island is what China calls the Scarborough Shoal, which is disputed between China and the Philippines. Much of the international community, including the United States and India, has recognised the Philippines claim to the island, which considers it to be a part of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

ALSO READ: China sets baselines for contested South China Sea shoal amid dispute with Philippines

The path of the US warship seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security, severely undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea, and contravened basic principles of international law and international relations. The Southern Theater Command Navy will maintain high alert at all times, resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security, and regional peace and stability, the Chinese statement further said.

US rejects Chinas charge

The United States has rejected Chinas version of events and the accusation and said USS Higgins was sailing in line with the international law.

The USS Higgins was conducting a freedom of navigation operation in accordance with international law, Sarah Merrill, a spokesperson for the 7th Fleet, told CNBC.

Chinas statement about this mission is falseThe United States is defending its right to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, as USS Higgins did here. Nothing China says otherwise will deter us, Merrill further said.

World rejects Chinas claims on Scarborough Shoal

China lays claim to Scarborough Shoal, which it calls Huangyan Island, as part of its broader claims to nearly the entire South China Sea on the basis of its self-claimed maritime border based on self-written nine dash lines.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) rejected Chinese claims to the South China Sea and the Scarborough Shoal in 2016 under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The PCA ruled that there was no legal basis to nine dash lines and territorial claims arising from it.

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The PCA further held that China had violated the Philippines sovereign rights in its EEZ by interfering with fishing and petroleum exploration and building artificial islands.

The United States, India, Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom (UK), and the European Union (EU) have supported the PCA ruling, essentially supporting the Philippines claim on Scarborough Shoal.
German Chancellor Merz on Wednesday said that European leaders are committed to ensuring Fridays summit between Trump and Putin in Alaska is a success, adding that the US president largely shares Europes position on the conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz attend a video meeting of European leaders with US President Donald Trump on the Ukraine war in Berlin, Germany, on Wednesday, ahead of the summit between the US and Russian leaders. AP

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday said that European leaders are committed to ensuring Fridays summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska is a success, adding that the US president largely shares Europes position on the conflict.

Us Europeans therefore do what we can to set the course for this meeting in the right way, The Guardian quoted Merz as saying after a virtual meeting with President Trump.

He said that a ceasefire must be the first step toward a durable peace.

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Merz reaffirmed the European position that borders must not be changed through violence, adding that any discussion of territory should be limited strictly to the existing contact line, in line with international law.

The chancellor also underscored the importance of robust safety assurances for Ukraine.

The strategy is based on supporting Ukraine and putting pressure on Russia. So if in Alaska theres no movement on the Russian side, then the US and the Europeans need to increase the pressure, said Merz, adding that that Trump largely shares the European position.

Describing the talks with President Trump as very good and constructive, Merz ended on a note of cautious optimism.

There is hope that something is moving. Theres hope that there could be peace in Ukraine, he added.

Speaking alongside Merz, President Zelenskyy welcomed what he called very intensive coordination with European allies and stressed that what concerns Ukraine must be discussed with Ukraine.

He also backed the idea of a potential three-way follow-up summit involving himself, Trump, and Putin.

On expectations ahead of the meeting on Friday, Zelenskyy said, It seems to me that the success of any talks depends first of all on the results. Our mood now is that we are united, and it was very positive [as] all the partners spoke in one voice, one desire, the same principles and the same vision and this is an important step forward.

When asked about whether his position on territorial concessions has changed, he said it hasnt and couldnt as the Ukrainian constitution remains the same.

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Any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution, he was quoted as saying.

Zelenskyy said that Russia should face new sanctions if it does not agree to an immediate ceasefire at the summit.

We hope that the central topic at the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire, Zelensky said.

He repeated his call for heightened pressure on Moscow, accusing President Putin of bluffing when he claims to be unaffected by sanctions.

He said Trump had personally promised to call him immediately after the Alaska summit to debrief, and that if key objectives are not met, they would discuss the next steps together.

Meanwhile, Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte posted a message on social media following the coordination call, calling it a great call and highlighting alliance unity.

Appreciate @realDonaldTrump leadership & close coordination with Allies, Rutte wrote. The ball is now in Putins court.

The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also struck a very positive tone in her reaction to the call, saying it was a very good conversation.

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Today Europe, the US and Nato have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace, The Guardian quoted her as saying.

The UKs readout of the call, released by Prime Minister Keir Starmers spokesperson, emphasised the countrys unwavering support for Ukraine.

It noted that the leaders agreed this week represents a pivotal moment for Ukraines future and thanked Trump for his efforts in bringing Putin to the table in pursuit of a ceasefire to end the ongoing bloodshed.

The prime minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering  international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.

Europe stands ready to support this and will continue to work alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine , the statement read.

With inputs from agencies
Sachs further said that under Trump, the US foreign policy has become impulsive as the country tries to reestablish its dominance, as it keeps losing power in a largely multipolar world today

Economist Jeffrey Sachs has hailed India for not falling into US President Donald Trumps tariff threats, saying that he is not a very logical or strategic person.

Trump imposed a 50 per cent tariff on India over its import of Russian oil, saying that New Delhi doesnt care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine.

Reacting to Trumps actions against India, Sachs told News18, Trump does things impulsively. He thought that India would immediately agree to the demands that he made and say, We will not buy Russian oil. This was a threat and India rightly did not succumb to it.

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He added that the US presidents actions were not a well-thought-out strategy. The economist added that India should not trust the US as its main partner.

When asked why the US president targeted New Delhi and not China, which is the bigger Russian crude oil buyer than India, Sachs said, Well, he tried to punish China - but China retaliated immediately. It cut off exports of rare earths and rare earth magnets and other components vital for US industry. This is not a matter of principle. This is a matter of threats. This is a matter of what Trump decides to do impulsively, what he thinks he can get away with. So if youre looking for consistency, youre certainly looking in the wrong place. Its not going to come from the US.

Sachs further said that under Trump, the US foreign policy has become impulsive as the country tries to reestablish its dominance, as it keeps losing power in a largely multipolar world today.

Trump is not a strategist. Hes not a logical thinker. Hes not a consistent or far-sighted thinker. American foreign policy right now is impulsive. Its short-term. It doesnt work. Trump thinks that he has all the cards vis-a-vis any other country. So he thinks that the great prize of the US market, which is not so dominant nor is it so important for India, gives him the leverage to make whatever demands he wants, the economist said.

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US President Donald Trump will have a one on one meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska with only their interpreters in the room  just like the Helsinki summit of 2018 in which the Russian leader convinced him that his intelligence agencies were lying to him.

US President Donald Trump receives a football from Russian President Vladimir Putin as they hold a joint news conference after their meeting in Helsinki, Finland, July 16, 2018. (Photo: Grigory Dukor/Reuters)

US President Donald Trump will have a one on one meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alska on Friday, the White House has said.

Beside two leaders, only their interpreters will be present inside the room  just like the Helsinki summit of 2018 between the two leaders that is widely condemned as one of the lowest point of American engagement with Russia.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Tuesday said that the summit with Putin would be a listening exercise for Trump and the goal of this meeting for the president is to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war.

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Leavitt further said, I think the president of the United States getting in the room with the president of Russia sitting face-to-face, rather than speaking over the telephone, will give this president the best indication of how to end this war and where this is headed.

ALSO READ: Is Trump giving Putin reasons to believe hes weak? Russia expert explains Ukraine U-turns

Despite Trumps saying at a press conference that he would go to Russia to meet Putin, Leavitt said that he would not go to Russia. Notably, Russia is just across the sea from Alaska, with the two countries just three miles apart at the closest point.

Putin likely to walk away with victory without an adult in room

With no one in the room who could advise him or counter Putins manipulation, Trump is much more like to find a common ground with the Russian leader to advance his goals than find a middle ground to end the war in Ukraine and pressure him into accepting a ceasefire as a pre-condition for arriving at a peace deal.

This would bring to life the worst fears of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his European partners who are concerned that Trump could cut a unilateral deal favourable to Russia and force it on Ukraine and Europe.

To bring Trump firmly into his folds, Putin will probably arrive at the summit with grand plans for the United States and Russia to join hands in profiting from the extraction and trade of Russian natural resources, according to David Blair, the Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator at The Telegraph.

Energy extraction has always resonated with Trump. He, after all, is a champion of drill, baby, drill approach.

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Blair outlined Putins probable approach, He will present Ukraine as being an irritating obstacle to the appealing goal of the US and Russia burying the"ir differences and prospering together. In Putins dream scenario, Mr Trump will then agree to a Kremlin-drafted peace plan, whereupon Russia and America could begin their new era of co-operation by ruthlessly imposing that plan on Ukraine and stuffing it down Mr Zelenskys throat, perhaps literally.

The 2018 Helsinki summit that shocked America

Trump held a one on one meeting with Putin with only their interpreters present for over two hours on July 16, 2018 at the Finnish capital Helsinki.

The meeting was held with complete opacity. No agenda was released before the meeting and no communique was issued after the meeting. In the meeting, there were no aides, note-takers, or other officials.

It later emerged that in a previous meeting with Putin on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in 2017, Trump had snatched notes from his interpreter and barred them ever talking about the conversation. The snatching of notes means that there is no record anywhere of what the two leaders discussed in the meeting.

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After the Helsinki meeting concluded, which lasted for more than two hours against the scheduled time of 90 minutes, Trump parroted Russian propaganda and rejected his own intelligence agencies assessments in what shock to even top officials of his foreign policy team.

President Putin says its not Russia. I dont see any reason why it would be, said Trump when asked about the Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Trumps acquittal of the Russian subversive campaign came just three days after then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller indicted 12 Russian intelligence officers for interfering in the 2016 election.

The meeting showed that Trump was completely under Putins influence and was up for undermining own government and policy to improve ties with Putin.

The Russian leader also convinced Trump to withdraw US troops from Russia in a major victory for the Russian agenda in Syria and West Asia.

The condemnation of Trumps capitulation before Putin was such that even Republican lawmakers joined it. Republican Senator John McCain called it one of the most disgraceful performances by an American president in memory and said that no prior president has ever abased himself more abjectly before a tyrant.

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House Speaker Paul Ryan said that there was no moral equivalence between the United States and Russia as Trump had made. Even Sen. Lindsey Graham, who is today one of the biggest cheerleaders of Trump, called it a missed opportunity to firmly hold Russia accountable for 2016 meddling.
In a scorching irony, Washington has praised Pakistan for its continued success in containing terrorist groups, even though the country has a long history of supporting militancy and has been in FATF grey list.

Against the backdrop of shifting USIndia ties following President Donald Trumps tariff decision, Washington has praised Pakistan for its continued success in containing terrorist groups that threaten regional and global security.

The United States applauded Pakistans continued successes to contain terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world, read a joint statement issued after counterterrorism talks in Islamabad.

In a scroaching irony, Pakistan itself has a long history of supporting terrorist groups and was removed from the FATF grey list in October 2022 after multiple stints under heightened monitoring since 2008.

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The latest round of discussions, held on Tuesday, focused on strategies to counter threats from groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The US also expressed condolences over recent attacks, including the Jaffar Express bombing and the school bus blast in Khuzdar.

The talks came a day after Washington formally designated the BLA and its faction, the Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organisations. The BLA, which has long waged an insurgency for Balochistans independence, was first sanctioned by the US in 2019. Since 2019, BLA has claimed responsibility for additional attacks, including by the Majeed Brigade, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.

The development coincided with Pakistans army chief Gen Asim Munirs second visit to the US in less than two months. Arriving in Washington on Sunday, Munir held high-level meetings with senior political and military leaders and engaged with the Pakistani diaspora.

Paks long history of supporting terror and FATF list

Pakistan has a long history of supporting terrorist groups. On multiple occasions, it has faced international scrutiny and sanctions. It was removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2022 after years of heightened monitoring, having been placed on the list several times since 2008, most recently in 2018.

Pahalgam attack by Pak-backed terrorists

The praise from Trumps US comes despite Pakistans long-standing policy of using terrorism as a tool of foreign policy. Recently, Pakistan-backed and trained terrorists killed 26 innocent people in Pahalgam, triggering a sharp escalation in tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps and militant hideouts across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The warning came after concerns were raised regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations, Guterres wrote in a report

Palestinians mourn at al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, where the victims of an Israeli strike which hit the Mustafa Hafez school, sheltering Palestinians displaced by the war, were brought, on July 3, 2025. AFP

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has put Israel and Russia on notice after accusing their militaries of committing sexual violence in conflict zones.

The warning came after concerns were raised regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations, Guterres wrote in a report, according to Reuters.

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel has reported documenting various violations committed against Palestinian women, men, and children. It also accused Israeli forces of committing rape and sexual violence against Palestinian detainees.

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What has the UN chief said?

In his annual report to the UN Security Council on conflict-related sexual violence, Guterres mentioned that Israel and Russia could be included in the list of countries credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence.

Cases documented by the United Nations indicate patterns of sexual violence such as genital violence, prolonged forced nudity and repeated strip searches conducted in an abusive and degrading manner, Guterres wrote.

He, however, also acknowledged that since Israel has blocked access to most UN monitors, it has been challenging to make a definitive determination about patterns and trends of violence meted out by armed forces against Gazans.

Baseless

Meanwhile, Israels ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, has dismissed the UN chiefs statements, calling them baseless accusations against the country.

The UN must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages. Israel will not shy away from protecting its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law, he said.

In July 2024, the Israeli military announced that nine soldiers were being detained and questioned over allegations of sexually abusing a Palestinian detainee at the notorious Sde Teiman prison facility, which was established to hold individuals arrested in Gaza.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said trade talks with India remain stuck, with Washington calling New Delhi a bit recalcitrant as it resists opening its agriculture and dairy markets, even as a tariff row with President Trump escalates.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday that several major trade deals, including those with Switzerland and India, remain pending, remarking that New Delhi had been a bit recalcitrant in its negotiations with Washington.

The comments come amid a standoff in USIndia trade talks, with President Trump unable to push through his terms as India refuses to open its agriculture and dairy markets. In retaliation, Trump has slapped a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, with an additional 25 per cent penalty set to take effect on August 21 over New Delhis trade ties with Russia.

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Speaking to Fox Business Networks Kudlow, Bessent voiced optimism about concluding the negotiations by the end of October. Thats aspirational, but I think we are in a good position, he said, adding, I believe we will have agreed on substantial terms with all the key countries.

He also said that the Trump administration aimed to conclude the trade negotiations by the end of October.

PM Modi vows to protect farmers

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that he would never compromise on the interests of Indias farmers, even if it meant paying a heavy political price, marking his first response to Trumps move to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods.

Our farmers welfare is paramount, Modi said at an event in New Delhi. India will never compromise on the wellbeing of its farmers, dairy sector, or fishermen  and I know I may have to pay a heavy price for standing firm on this.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 10, Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer XPENG announced it had added 86 self-operated charging stations in July, including five S5 ultra-fast stations, seventy-seven S4 ultra-fast stations, two supercharging stations, and two destination stations, according to a press release issued by XPENG via its WeChat account.

As of August 1, 2025, the company's self-operated charging network comprises more than 2,440 stations with 13,200 charging connectors, covering 430 cities nationwide.

Photo credit: XPENG

XPENG's innovations in charging technology have also drawn industry attention. In September last year, the company launched its liquid-cooled S5 ultra-fast charger, capable of delivering a peak charging power of 800kW  enabling more than one kilometer of range per second  with a maximum output current of 800A, voltage of 1,000V, and plug-in-to-start time under 13 seconds. The new-generation S5 stations have already added in Shenzhen, Beijing, Chengdu and other cities in China. XPENG plans to deploy 10,000 self-operated charging stations by 2026, including 4,500 liquid-cooled ultra-fast charging stations.

As for sales performance, XPENG delivered 36,717 smart EVs in July this year, marking a year-on-year (YoY) surge of 229% and a MoM increase of 6%. This was the ninth consecutive month with monthly deliveries above 30,000 units. In the first seven months of 2025, XPENG's cumulative deliveries reached 233,906 units, with a YoY roar of 270%. By the end of July this year, the company's total deliveries since inception had surpassed 800,000 units.

Among vehicle models, the XPENG MONA M03 was a standout, with over 15,000 units delivered in July this year. The model has achieved monthly deliveries above 10,000 units for 11 straight months since launch, with a cumulative total sales volumes exceeding 150,000 units. The XPENG P7+ also maintained strong market traction, with cumulative deliveries surpassing 67,000 units. On the product front, the XPENG G7 hit the market on July 3 this year at a starting price of 195,800 yuan. Featuring a computing power of 2,250 TOPS and on-device VLA+VLM large models, the XPENG G7 secured more than 10,000 units of firm orders within nine minutes of market launch.

Alongside soaring sales, XPENG has made significant strides in its globalization strategy. The company has successfully entered 46 countries and regions worldwide. On July 11, 2025, XPENG showcased its 2025 G6 and G9 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK and announced their European debut, marking the brand's entry into new markets including the UK, Italy, and Ireland in the first half of 2025. More notably, at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) on July 24 this year, XPENG revealed Indonesia as its first global production hub outside China and delivered the first locally built XPENG X9 to a local customer  officially kicking off the company's localized global manufacturing strategy.
Members of the National Guard gathered at the headquarters east of the US Capitol, dressed in their military fatigues, as part of the mobilisation exercise to assist local law enforcement agencies

US National Guard troops have begun arriving at Washington DC to report for duty after President Donald Trump ordered their presence to address a surge in crime in the national capital.

Members of the National Guard gathered at the headquarters east of the US Capitol, dressed in their military fatigues, as part of the mobilisation exercise to assist local law enforcement agencies.

What will the soldiers do?

The National Guard soldiers, part of the 800-member troops, will be primarily involved in crowd management, perimeter control, security, and providing communications support to law enforcement. In most cases, they are not expected to carry firearms, an official told NBC News.

Currently, the National Guard is being deployed to protect federal assets, provide a safe environment for law enforcement officers to make arrests and deter violent crime with a visible law enforcement presence, a White House official said.

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Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the takeover of Washington, DCs Metropolitan Police Department will be reevaluated in 30 days.

As for the timing, we will reevaluate and reassess and make further decisions after this 30-day period is up, but within these 30 days, our entire focus is making sure that this is the most efficient operation possible, she said.

Over 20 arrests made

More than 20 people have been arrested since the deployment of the National Guard in the capital city. The individuals have been accused of crimes like homicide, firearms offences, possession with intent to distribute, narcotics, fare evasion, lewd acts, stalking, possession of a high capacity magazine, driving under the influence, reckless driving and a bench warrant, Leavitt said.

Terry Cole, head of the Drug Enforcement Administration tasked with leading the federal takeover of the citys police, said patrolling would be ramped up.

Federal agents and police will work hand in hand during these patrols, Cole added.

The citys Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has been forced to accommodate the takeover, said this approach is the wrong way to do it.

With inputs from agencies
The United States has reaffirmed that its ties with both India and Pakistan remain unchanged, even as tensions simmer over trade tariffs, energy deals, and provocative remarks from Pakistans army chief.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce has said that the United States relationships with both Pakistan and India remain unchanged, emphasising that American diplomats are committed to both nations.

Her remarks come amid evolving dynamics between New Delhi and Washington, following President Donald Trumps announcement of additional tariffs on India over its trade ties with Russia. At the same time, Pakistan and the US have reached an agreement to develop oil reserves.

Bruces comments also followed reported remarks by Pakistans army chief, Gen Asim Munir, in Florida, where he allegedly warned that Pakistan could use nuclear weapons against India, and half the world, if faced with an existential threat.

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Recalling past crisis management

Speaking at a State Department briefing, Bruce referred to an earlier IndiaPakistan crisis that could have developed into something quite horrible. She said there had been immediate concern and movement from Vice President JD Vance, President Trump, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to defuse the situation.

#WATCH | Washington DC, USA | On Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs US visit, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce says, "We had an experience with Pakistan and India, when there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible... There was immediate pic.twitter.com/CjpXSmyeis  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring, she said. Its a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance, and our top leaders were involved in preventing a potential catastrophe.

She reiterated that the US relationship with both nations remains unchanged  good, and that American diplomats are committed to both nations.

Counter-terrorism cooperation in Islamabad

Highlighting the USPakistan counter-terrorism dialogue held in Islamabad on Tuesday, Bruce said both sides had reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation against terrorist threats.

For the region and for the world, the US working with both these nations is good news and will promote a future thats beneficial, she added.

Munirs second US visit in two months

Gen Munirs trip marks his second visit to the United States in less than two months, following a private luncheon with Trump in June. He arrived in Washington on Sunday for a series of high-level meetings with senior US political and military leaders.
The Alaska summit is set for Friday with both Moscow and Washington signalling openness to a deal, a prospect that raises fears in Kyiv that any settlement could come at Ukraines expense.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) is welcomed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz upon arrival in the garden of the chancellery in Berlin to join a video conference of European leaders with the US President on the Ukraine war ahead of the summit between the US and Russian leaders, on August 13, 2025. Image- AFP

Economist Jeffrey Sachs has blamed Washington for the nearly three-year-old Russia-Ukraine war, saying the United States dragged Kyiv into the conflict and must now step aside.

The statement come just days before a high-stakes meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, a summit that could reshape the course of the war.

Sachs argued that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should face the reality that Trump and Putin may strike a deal, with or without Kyivs direct involvement. The Ukrainian leader, who has not been invited to the Alaska talks is scrambling to ensure his countrys interests are not sidelined.

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On Sunday, Zelenskyy publicly criticised Washingtons silence over recent Russian strikes on Ukraine, warning that such inaction only emboldens Putin. The criticism comes amid some of the most significant Russian gains in months.

According to an AFP analysis of battlefield data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War, Russian forces on August 12 seized or claimed 110 square kilometres of territory in eastern Ukraine in just 24 hours, the largest single-day advance in more than a year.

Moscows offensive has accelerated in recent weeks, with Wednesdays gains focused on a narrow but strategic section of the eastern front line. Ukrainian officials say the Russian military is preparing for further offensive operations, dashing hopes of an immediate de-escalation.

In a bid to influence the upcoming Trump-Putin meeting, Zelenskyy met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday, before joining French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, EU leaders and NATO chiefs for urgent online talks. They later held a second call with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance, pressing for assurances that Ukraines sovereignty would not be compromised.

Russias foreign ministry dismissed the outreach as politically and practically insignificant, accusing Kyiv and its allies of trying to sabotage efforts to end the war.

With inputs from agencies
The US Department of State said that it is aware of reports of Pakistani Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munirs nuclear threats made from American soil.

The US Department has told Firstpost that it is aware of reports of Field Marshal Asim Munir, the Pakistani Army chief, making nuclear threats from American soil.

When asked by Firstposts Madhur Sharma about Munir's threats of nuclear catastrophe in general and missile attacks on India in particular made from American soil while on a visit at the invitation of the US government, the State Department said it was aware of the remarks but refused to address them.

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We are aware of these reports and would refer you to the Government of Pakistan regarding Chief of Army Staff Munirs alleged remarks, the State Department told Firstposts Sharma in response to his queries.

US Department of States response to Pakistani Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munirs nuclear threats.

Earlier this month, it emerged that Munir had hade repeated threats to attack India, and unleash a nuclear catastrophe on the whole world, at a private event in the Florida state of the United States.

Munir said that we are a nuclear nation, if we think we are going down, well take half the world down with us, according to The Print.

Specifically referring to India, Munir threatened to attack India with missiles: We will wait for India to build a dam, and when it does so, we will destroy it with 10 missilesThe Indus river is not the Indians family property. We have no shortage of missiles, Praise be to God.

ALSO READ: From the soil of a friendly country: India calls Munirs nuclear sabre rattling from US regrettable

Munir made these remarks at a black-tie dinner hosted for Munir by businessman Adnan Asad in Tampa, Florida. He was in the country to attend the farewell function for General Michael Kurilla, the head of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), who retired last week.

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India reacted sharply to Munirs speech and also indicted the US government.

It is also regrettable that these remarks should have been made from the soil of a friendly third country, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

As for Munirs remarks, the MEA said that nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistans stock-in-trade and proves that Pakistan is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups.

The international community can draw its own conclusions on the irresponsibility inherent in such remarks, which also reinforce the well-held doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in a state where the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups, the statement read.

In his second term, US President Donald Trump has ramped up engagement with Pakistan. He has signed a trade deal with the country and, in an unprecedented act, invited Munir for a meeting at the White House.

At the same time, the India-US ties have nosedived as Trump has waged an aggressive tariff war on the country, slapping 50 per cent tariffs and slamming the country over its trade policies. He has also undermined Indias position on Operation Sindoor by claiming that it was his intervention and not Indian military action and Pakistans request to India that led to the ceasefire on May 10 after four days of conflict.

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Australia and Vanuatu on Wednesday agreed a A$500 million ($326.50 million) deal to strengthen economic and security ties between the two countries, amid increasing competition from China, the Pacific island nations largest external creditor.

This handout photo released on August 13, 2025 by Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) shows Australias Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles (L) presenting a shoe to Vanuatu's Prime Minister Jotham Napat (C), as Vanuatus Deputy Prime Minister of Vanuatu Johnny Koanopa (R) reacts on the Island of Tanna in the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu. AFP PHOTO

Australia and Vanuatu have agreed on a A$500 million ($326.5 million) package to deepen economic and security cooperation, as both nations contend with growing Chinese influence in the Pacific.

Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the pact, called the Nakamal Agreement, would see Australia invest over the next decade in areas ranging from security to trade, with a strong emphasis on labour mobility.

The agreement will transpire into a lot of trade benefits between the two countries, whether it be the security agreement, economic transformation, with some specific focus on labour mobility, Napat said at a press conference on the island of Tanna.

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Australias Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles described the deal as recognition of a shared destiny between the two countries. It acknowledges that as neighbours, we have a shared security environment and a commitment to each other, he said.

The agreement, to be formally signed in the coming weeks by Napat and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, also includes funding for climate resilience in the wake of a December earthquake in Port Vila that killed at least 14 people and injured hundreds.

In recent years, Vanuatu has drawn closer to China, its largest external creditor, following a decade of infrastructure loans, including funding for a new presidential office completed last year.

With inputs from agencies
Lebanons president warns against foreign-backed armed groups as his cabinet approves a US-backed plan to disarm Hezbollah amid Iranian assurances of respect for sovereignty and renewed debate over the groups weapons.

No group in Lebanon is permitted to bear arms or rely on foreign backing, its president told a visiting senior Iranian official on Wednesday after the cabinet approved the goals of a U.S.-backed roadmap to disarm the Iran-aligned Hezbollah group.

During a meeting in Beirut with Ali Larijani, secretary of Irans top security body, Joseph Aoun warned against foreign interference in Lebanons internal affairs, saying the country was open to cooperation with Iran but only within the bounds of national sovereignty and mutual respect.

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Larijani said the Islamic Republic supports Lebanons sovereignty and does not interfere in its decision-making.

Any decision taken by the Lebanese government in consultation with the resistance is respected by us, he said after separate talks with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, whose Amal movement is an ally of Hezbollah.

By resistance, Larijani was alluding to the Shiite Muslim militant Hezbollah, which was founded in 1982, grew into a state-within-a-state force better armed than the Lebanese army and has repeatedly fought Israel over the decades.

Iran didnt bring any plan to Lebanon, the U.S. did. Those intervening in Lebanese affairs are those dictating plans and deadlines, said Larijani.

He said Lebanon should not mix its enemies with its friends - your enemy is Israel, your friend is the resistance.

I recommend to Lebanon to always appreciate the value of resistance."

The US submitted a plan through President Donald Trumps envoy to the region, Tom Barrack, setting out the most detailed steps yet for disarming Hezbollah, which has rejected mounting calls to disarm since its devastating war with Israel last year.

Hezbollah has rejected repeated calls to relinquish its weaponry although it was seriously weakened in the war, with Israel killing most of its leadership in airstrikes and bombings.

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It was the climax of a conflict that began in October 2023 when the group opened fire at Israeli positions along Lebanons southern frontier in support of its Palestinian Islamist ally Hamas at the start of the Gaza war.

Aoun also said recent remarks by some Iranian officials had not been helpful, and reaffirmed that the Lebanese state and its armed forces were solely responsible for protecting all citizens.

Last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran supported any decision Hezbollah makes, adding that this was not the first attempt to strip the group of its weapons.
Germany announced on Wednesday that it will work with a group of Ukraines Western backers to supply a package of military aid to the war ravaged country worth up to $500 million using a new NATO supply line.

Germany said on Wednesday it will work with a group of Ukraines Western allies to deliver up to $500 million in military aid through a new NATO supply line.

The announcement comes after NATO earlier this month began coordinating regular shipments of large weapons packages to Kyiv. The Netherlands had pledged air defence systems, ammunition and other equipment worth 500 million ($582 million), followed a day later by Swedens $275 million contribution to a joint Nordic effort with Denmark and Norway, aimed at providing $500 million worth of air defences, anti-tank weapons, ammunition and spare parts.

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Germanys foreign and defence ministries said the new aid would prioritise critical air defence capabilities urgently needed to counter Russias continued aerial assaults, which have killed increasing numbers of civilians.

According to the United Nations, Russian strikes on urban areas behind the front line have killed more than 12,000 civilians since the start of the war.

Two deliveries of equipment, most of it bought in the United States, were scheduled for this month, although the Nordic package was more likely to arrive in September. Germany did not name the group of countries it would be working with.

The equipment is supplied based on Ukraines priority needs on the battlefield. NATO allies then locate the weapons and ammunition and send them on.

Germany has delivered or pledged military support to Ukraine worth around 40 billion euros ($47 billion) since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

With inputs from agencies
One person has died and many are injured after a yacht collided with a cargo ship in the waters off southern Japan.

One person was killed and several were reported missing after a yacht and a cargo ship collided in waters off southern Japan on Wednesday, the coast guard said.

The captain of a 492-ton gravel carrier reported to the Japan Coast Guard that it collided with a yacht close to Hoto island in Japans Oita region, according to the local coat guard officials.

One person was found nearby at around 10:00 am and was sent to hospital after reportedly being pulled from the water unconscious.

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The person found is a 70-year-old man from Oita. He was confirmed dead, a coast guard official told AFP.

The gravel carrier captain told the coast guard there were several people on the yacht.

Based on this report, we are still continuing to search for the missing people with six vessels and one plane, the official said.

(This is a wire copy. Except for the headline, the copy has not been edited by Firstpost staff.)
Zelenskyy has ruled out ceding more territory to Russia in return for a ceasefire, saying such a deal would only set the stage for another war.

We will never leave...: Zelenskyy refuses to cede Donbas region that could be Putin's 'springboard' for future war. AFP

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday (August 12) has rejected a Russian proposal to cede more Ukrainian territory in exchange for a ceasefire, warning that Moscow would simply use any gains as a springboard for a future war.

At a press briefing in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said Vladimir Putin was demanding Ukraine withdraw from the final 9,000 square kilometres of Donetsk still under Kyivs control, a message he said was relayed to him by US officials ahead of Fridays planned summit between Donald Trump and the Russian leader. He stressed that agreeing to such terms would merely lay the groundwork for another war.

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Zelenskyy said he did not believe Trump supported Russias demands and expressed hope the US leader would act as a fair mediator when he meets Putin in Alaska.

The Ukrainian president also said there was no sign Russia was preparing to honour a ceasefire, pointing to reports that small sabotage units had breached Ukrainian defences in eastern Donbas, advancing roughly six miles in three days. He further warned that Russia was planning fresh offensives along three sectors of the frontline.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the TrumpPutin summit, and a day before a virtual meeting with US and European leaders, Zelenskyy accused Putin of seeking to dominate Ukraine because he does not want a sovereign Ukraine. He warned it would be dangerous for Ukraine to be pressured by the US into accepting Russias demand to seize the remaining parts of Donbas after the Alaska talks. The territory sought by Moscow amounted to about 90,000 square kilometres of Ukraine, he said.

Last week, Russia signalled for the first time that it might consider a ceasefire in return for Ukraine withdrawing from the areas of Donbas still under its control. While Trump suggested the two countries could explore a swapping of territories, Zelenskyy said he understood Russias offer as merely not to advance further, not to withdraw from anywhere, with no genuine swaps on the table.

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Colorados fifth-largest wildfire in history continues to test firefighters along with the nerves of local residents, with a turn in weather today expected to pose further challenges.

The Lee Fire southwest of Meeker as of Tuesday morning stood at 116,859 acres and 6% containment. Thats a 1% drop in containment as the fire added a few thousand acres in size Monday thanks to the help of fast-moving flames pushed by wind, the fires incident management team said.

The fuels and the weather, its been killing us, (making for) very difficult suppression, Fred Tucker, operations section chief for the team, said at a community meeting in Rifle on Monday night.

The Elk Fire east of Meeker stood at 14,549 acres on Tuesday and 30% containment.

Thats no small incident. Thats a large incident, Tucker said of the Elk Fire.

While smaller than the Lee Fire, the Elk Fire has had major consequences for some, including 87-year-old Bob Kydd. On Aug. 3 he lost his home and belongings to the fire, according to a GoFundMe fundraising appeal for him that so far has raised more than $15,000. According to the fundraising pages organizers, who are also Kydds neighbors, Rachel and Ryan Wix, Kydd was once known as the scone man who prepared scones at the Sleepy Cat Lodge.

He was also there in 1991 (when) the old Sleepy Cat Lodge exploded and caught fire, now, unbelievably, hes survived two major fires in his lifetime, they wrote.

 If we can come together to show him his community stands behind him during this difficult time it would mean the world, they wrote.

Also on Tuesday, Deirdre Macnab, president of the board of the Meeker Mustang Makeover, an annual wild-horse training competition that had been scheduled for Aug. 22-23 at the Rio Blanco County Fairgrounds, said the event will be postponed until Sept. 26-27.

The fairgrounds is currently home to the incident management team and many hundreds of firefighters for the Lee and Elk fires.

Macnab announced the date change to trainers in an email Tuesday.

These have been terrifying days for the community and many ranches and businesses are still in grave danger, she wrote. As you can imagine after these trying days and weeks, the town will be exceptionally grateful for the publics support, and events such as ours will be greeted with sincere appreciation. Your patience and willingness to delay the event will be especially appreciated.

Volatile area fires have been a result in part of area precipitation that was 5% of normal over the past month, incident meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld told the Rifle audience Monday. Potentially gusty surface winds today are expected to add to the potential for fire activity, while Schoenfeld said there is a considerable chance of rain arriving over the weekend.

Kevin Thompson, fire behavior analyst for the team, said live brush and trees are in near-dormant conditions that typically occur going into winter, not in August. Dry weather and fuels have led to Lee Fire growth of as much as 30,000 acres in a day, which is equivalent to 7x7 miles, he said. He also warned of a potential for large fire activity today.

Tucker noted that on one day alone, the fire made a run of 8 or 9 miles along the Colorado Highway 13 corridor between Meeker and Rifle. The fire as of Tuesday had a 170-mile perimeter, he said.

The two fires have a combined 1,234 people working on them. Tucker said things have been going well enough on the Elk Fire that some resources have been moved to the Lee Fire, where perhaps 700 firefighters are on the ground. Ten aircraft are also fighting the fires.

Tucker said that in a normal year there wouldnt be as many resources available, but it has been a relatively quiet year for fires in other areas outside Colorado.

Were doing everything we can. Were throwing everything at this fire, he said.

U.S. Rep. Jeff Hurd, R-Grand Junction, told the audience, Im committed to working with our state, local and federal partners to make sure that Colorado gets the support and resources that it needs, period.

Tucker told the Rifle residents, One of the biggest critical values to us right now is your community here. Were aware of that, we know that we dont want to impact you any more than whats already happening. Were really here to help. Were doing the best we can. Its just a difficult situation.

This fires unprecedented in history so were trying to get out ahead of it, the teams incident commander, Ben Sanders, said.

He announced that in addition to the firefighters based out of Meeker, a spike camp of some 200-300 personnel is being established in the Rifle Gap area north of Rifle. A small crew began setting up the camp on Tuesday morning.

Rifle Mayor Sean Strode told the Sentinel, I think having the camp there and having a home base for them is fantastic.

He commended the fire crews for their work and professionalism in taking on such a large and volatile fire, and said he takes confidence in their efforts. But after the heightened fire activity a few days ago, for him, I dont think nervousness has subsided completely, he said. You always worry about the town and the residents and the surrounding area. I feel confident were in good hands but its a mayors job to worry a little.

He added, We have a lot of engaged citizens that are really watching and paying attention. I think the people in the city are confident in the wildland fire crews, which helps when sometimes big smoke clouds make you nervous.

Ted and Carla Reed and Melanie Dahl, all Rifle residents, attended Monday evenings presentation together. Ted Reed said afterward, What I got was confidence that good people are doing the best they can. Theres only so much any human or group of humans can do when Mother Nature gets pissed at us.

Carla Reed was struck by the complexity and logistics of trying to keep a fire so big out of Rifle.

But its also so dependent on the weather and if this happens and that happens, and theres so much uncertainty, she said. We know that the right people are there to fight the fire but we dont know if the fire is going to present the right circumstances for them to be able to do it.

Said Dahl, I came hoping to get some clarity and certainty and I just realized how complex it is. There is no certainty.

Still, she expressed appreciation that fire officials held the meeting to help inform the public.
Friday Night

Some clouds early will give way to generally clear conditions overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 60F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Leaked Files Reveal Serbia's Secret Expansion of Chinese-Made Surveillance

By Jelena Jankovic and Reid Standish August 13, 2025

Summary

Leaked documents show a Serbian IT company that has won Interior Ministry tenders buying new software and services from the Chinese tech giant Huawei.

One purchase order from March 2024 shows plans to expand Serbia's eLTE system, the private citywide hotspot that links the surveillance equipment and software that forms Huawei's Safe City project and allows it to operate.

Experts who reviewed the files for RFE/RL said items on the purchase order could support up to 3,500 additional cameras.

The software and services are also provided by Huawei at a substantial discount.

BELGRADE -- The Serbian government is substantially expanding its advanced Chinese-made surveillance system, leaked documents reviewed by RFE/RL show, despite years of protests and backlash from the public over its use.

The documents seen by RFE/RL contain contacts with the Chinese technology giant Huawei.

They show large purchases of software and services necessary to increase the scale of a program called Safe City, a project first sold by Huawei in 2017 through a strategic partnership deal with Serbia's Interior Ministry.

The program aims to provide facial and license-plate recognition and other surveillance capabilities integrated into a unified, citywide system.

Few details are known about the scale, scope, or cost of Serbia's surveillance projects with Huawei, and Serbian authorities have tried to keep Safe City systems out of the public eye in recent years amid international criticism, legal challenges, and protests, especially over the use of biometric facial recognition.

The issue is particularly controversial because its use is not provided for under Serbian law. Serbian authorities maintain that facial-recognition software is not yet deployed through the Safe City project, but they have tried to legalize biometric surveillance multiple times before withdrawing their legislative efforts following intense public pressure.

Currently the capital, Belgrade, as well as Novi Sad and Nis -- the country's second- and third-largest cities -- have deployed Safe City programs in cooperation with Huawei.

The files reviewed by RFE/RL highlight that the Serbian government has continued to expand the surveillance system provided by Huawei secretly.

One particular contract dated to March 2024 contains a confidential order for software and services to expand Serbia's eLTE system, the private citywide hotspot that is only for police and surveillance devices. It functions as the backbone for Huawei's Safe City project to link cameras and facial-recognition software with police terminals and command centers in order to provide widespread monitoring.

Among the contents of the order is a noteworthy increase in the dispatching system that uses the eLTE network, including GIS source access software that expands the ability to pull up camera feeds in specific locations. Experts who spoke to RFE/RL said the 35 units purchased from Huawei could support up to 3,500 additional cameras on the expanded eLTE network.

"They have deliberately purchased the capacity to support 3,500 cameras," said Conor Healy, the director of government research at IPVM, a surveillance-industry research firm, after reviewing the purchase orders. "That suggests they intend to install cameras up to that amount."

Serbia's Interior Ministry and Huawei did not respond to RFE/RL's request for comment.

Why Is The Expansion Of Huawei's Safe City Project Significant?

That order and other files reviewed by RFE/RL are among more than 1.7 million leaked files that were posted to the dark web in June following a hack on the Serbian IT company Informatika AD, which has won large government tenders, including from the Interior Ministry.

Among that trove of documents are more than 200 files related to procurement that Informatika AD carried out on behalf of Serbia's Interior Ministry, including the order with Huawei to expand the eLTE system for the Safe City project.

Informatika AD told RFE/RL that it was the target of a hack but did not answer questions about the procurement for the Interior Ministry.

When the flagship Safe City project for Belgrade, a city of 1.1 million people, was first announced in 2017, it involved the installation of 1,000 security surveillance cameras equipped with AI software for facial recognition.

The government has not disclosed how many cameras in total are installed in Belgrade or elsewhere in Serbia, and while it is unclear from the software and services purchased in the order if the 3,500 cameras will be only used in Belgrade or also in other cities it marks a substantial increase in the country's surveillance capabilities.

"They are increasing the capacity quite significantly," Healy said. "If this was deployed to Belgrade, it would indicate a level of camera density rarely seen outside of China."

Defenders of surveillance projects like Huawei's Safe City argue that they offer major efficiency gains by automating city operations and building up systems already in use in democratic countries. Serbian authorities have also said the technology is needed in order to curb crime and prevent terrorism.

But critics say such technology can be misused to help entrench authoritarian political leaders and is exported from China with diminished transparency and accountability.

Inside Serbia, the government's attempts to expand the use of biometric surveillance faces stiff resistance from human rights and privacy activists over the potential abuse of Chinese mass-monitoring equipment by the authorities to track and intimidate protesters in order to curb antigovernment dissent.

A 2022 RFE/RL investigation found how Serbian officials are already using Chinese tech to track and target activists and protesters, raising concerns that more advanced Chinese-made surveillance equipment, such as facial recognition, could also be abused.

Domestic and international organizations, including Serbia's Commissioner for Information of Public Importance and the European Parliament, continue to warn about the expansion of the government's surveillance capabilities without adequate legal regulation for processing biometric data that is obtained through facial recognition software.

In its past statements, Huawei has maintained it is only a manufacturer and vendor and that responsibility for how its technology is used ultimately lies with the user.

Trail Of Documents

RFE/RL has checked the authenticity of the documents pertaining to the Safe City project through publicly available databases and verifying specific details visible on the files themselves, such as signatures and stamps.

The procurement order from Huawei to expand the eLTE system includes new software and related services ranging from new base station tracking and voice call management to improved video surveillance capabilities and analytical tools. The order also contains a warranty and on-site installation and maintenance from Huawei-trained engineers.

The software and services are also provided by Huawei at a substantial discount.

The order lists the pre-tax total cost for the procurement at more than $3 million (2.6 million euros) but is reduced to $1.2 million (1 million euros) after a "one-time discount" is applied on the invoice. That represents a 57 percent discount worth more than $1.7 million (1.5 million euros) in savings.

The package of software and services that includes among other items the GIS source access software that allows the network to support up to 3,500 cameras received a particularly large discount. The invoice lists the package as worth $1.1 million (961,501.72 euros) but a 92 percent discount is applied that lowers the cost to only $71,371.71 (69,087.69 euros) before tax.

The documents do not say why Huawei offered such large discounts.

Chinese firms operating internationally are known to give steep discounts to secure business, but the savings applied are significant and it's unclear if Huawei faced any competition from other companies in securing the project in Serbia.

"The most likely explanation to me would be that Huawei is expecting a longer relationship with the Serbian government," Healy said. "Sometimes it's not about money for Huawei and it's more about the relationship between Serbia and China."

Serbia's Deepening Ties With China

While Huawei is a private company, it was selected as a national champion for the development of homemade telecom gear by the Chinese Communist Party. The US government has blacklisted the company over its connections to the Chinese military and concerns that its equipment could be used for espionage.

European governments, as well as countries such as Australia and Canada, have also brought in varying restrictions against the use of Huawei technology due to national security concerns.

Despite these concerns, the Serbian government has forged ahead with Huawei and other Chinese technology companies as Belgrade has deepened its ties with Beijing over the last decade through high-profile investments, infrastructure projects, and a growing footprint from Chinese firms.

Inside the Balkan country, the issue of Chinese-style surveillance has become one of the most visible signs of China's growing presence in Serbia, with an RFE/RL investigation from 2023 showing that 42 local-level governments across the country procured Chinese-made surveillance cameras and software, some with facial recognition capabilities.

RFE/RL Balkan Service correspondent Jelena Jankovic reported from Belgrade. China Global Affairs correspondent Reid Standish reported from Prague.

Source:

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Contracts

Contracts For Aug. 12, 2025

NAVY

Raytheon Co., Tucson, Arizona, was awarded a $258,742,330 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for the engineering, manufacturing, and development of the Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) Block IIICU All Up Round. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $263,137,090. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona (72%); Simsbury, Connecticut (7%); Wolverhampton, United Kingdom (3%); Salt Lake City, Utah (3%); North Logan, Utah (1%); McKinney, Texas (1%); Warrington, Pennsylvania (1%); Bristol, Pennsylvania (1%); Hauppauge, New York (1%); Coxsackie, New York (1%); Tampa, Florida (1%); San Jose, California (1%); Anniston, Alabama (1%); and various other locations each less than 1% (6%), and is expected to be completed by September 2031. Fiscal 2025 research, development, test and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $52,054,849 (65%); Foreign Military Sales (Canada) funds in the amount of $18,473,766 (23%); and fiscal 2024 research, development, test and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $9,071,456 (11%), were obligated at time of award, of which $9,071,456 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 3204(a)(1) (only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements). Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-25-C-5413). (Awarded on July 31, 2025)

Arimon Technologies Inc., Montello, Wisconsin, is awarded a $7,773,506 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the procurement of uninterruptable power supplies and bypass switches for use on Navy ships. Work will be performed at the contractor's facility in Montello, Wisconsin, and is expected to be completed by August 2030. Fiscal 2025 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $91,727 will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the SAM.gov website, with three offers received. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is the contracting activity (N64498-25-D-4034).

AIR FORCE

Aleut Management Services LLC, Colorado Springs Colorado, was awarded a $50,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for base maintenance. This contract provides for base maintenance and sustainment of Air Force Real Property and Real Property Installed Equipment. Work will be performed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 10, 2030. This contract was a competitive acquisition and three offers were received. Fiscal 2025 operations and maintenance appropriations funds in the amount of below $50,000,000 are being obligated at time of award. The 633rd Contracting Squadron, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Hampton, Virginia, is the contracting activity (FA4800-25-C-0009).

Geost, Tucson, Arizona, has been awarded a ceiling $15,616,578 modification (P00034) to a previously awarded contract (FA8819-21-C-1001) for development and demonstrating concepts for low-cost, low size, weight, and power hosted space-based sensors to improve Space Domain Awareness in geosynchronous orbit. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $80,783,924 from $64,890,561. Work will be performed at Tucson, Arizona, and is expected to be completed by July 20, 2026. Fiscal 2025 research, development, test and evaluation funds in the amount of $11,000,000 are being obligated at time of award. The Space Systems Command, Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power, El Segundo, California, is the contracting activity.

UPDATE: Matrix Research, Inc., Beavercreek, Ohio (FA2377-25-F-B004) was added as an awardee to the $94,975,000 multiple award, fair opportunity, indefinite-quantity/indefinite-delivery contract for Science and Technology Applied Radio Frequency Systems announced on Aug. 11, 2025. Fiscal 2025 research, development, test and evaluation funds in the amount of $364,941 for Matrix Research Inc. are being obligated at time of award.

ARMY

G&G Steel Inc.,* Russellville, Alabama, was awarded a firm-fixed-price contract to fabricate, assemble, and deliver one upstream miter gate with two leaves and the associated equipment. The amount of this action is $18,169,068 with a total cumulative face value of $38,697,288. Bids were solicited via the internet with two received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 15, 2028. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Kentucky, is the contracting activity (W912QR-25-F-A090).

Tetra Tech Inc., San Diego, California, was awarded a $9,136,582 modification (P00010) to contract W912DY-22-F-0322 for recurring maintenance, minor and emergency repairs at fueling sites. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $58,328,032. Work will be performed in San Diego, California; Des Moines, and Sioux City, Iowa; Topeka, and Wichita, Kansas; Duluth, and St. Paul, Minnesota; Lemay, and St. Joseph, Missouri; Lincoln, and Omaha, Nebraska; Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Pembina, North Dakota; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Finley, Madison, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with an estimated completion date of Aug. 12, 2026. Fiscal 2025 revolving funds in the amount of $9,136,582 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville, Alabama, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

M M Manufacturing LLC,* Lajas, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $12,988,318 modification (P00011) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-23-D-0070) with four one-year option periods for various types of coats and trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is Aug. 21, 2026. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2025 through 2026 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

CORRECTION: The contract announced on Aug. 8, 2025, for Ameriqual Group LLC, doing business as Ameriqual Packaging, Evansville, Indiana (SPE3S1-25-D-Z205), for $221,062,100 and Baxters North America Inc., doing business as The Wornick Co., Cincinnati, Ohio (SPE3S1-25-D-Z206), for $25,308,625 was announced with an incorrect award date. The correct award date is Aug. 14, 2025.

*Small business

https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4272801/

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Haitian Gang Leader 'Barbecue' Indicted for Conspiracy to Violate U.S. Sanctions

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

U.S.-Based Co-Conspirator Bazile Richardson Arrested in Texas

An indictment was unsealed today in U.S. District Court charging Jimmy Cherizier, also known as Barbecue, 48, of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Bazile Richardson, also known as Fredo, Fred Lion, Leo Danger, and Lepe Blode, 48, a naturalized U.S. citizen, with leading a conspiracy to transfer funds from the United States to Cherizier to fund his gang activities in Haiti in violation of the U.S sanctions imposed on Cherizier. Cherizier is a fugitive believed to be Haiti. Richardson was arrested on July 23 in Pasadena, Texas, and is expected to make his initial court appearance today in the District of Columbia.

Concurrent with the indictment, the U.S. Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Cherizier. If you have information, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at www.tips.fbi.gov

. Information may also be provided to HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or online at www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form

.

"Cherizier and a U.S. associate sought to raise funds in the United States to bankroll Cherizier's violent criminal enterprise, which is driving a security crisis in Haiti," said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. "The National Security Division does not tolerate criminal gang fundraising in the United States, and will continue to pursue those who enable Haiti's violence and instability."

"There's a good reason that there's a $5 million reward for information leading to Cherizier's arrest. He's a gang leader responsible for heinous human rights abuses, including violence against American citizens in Haiti," said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. "The U.S. government sanctioned Cherizier in 2020 because he was responsible for an ongoing campaign of violence, including the 2018 La Saline massacre, in which 71 people were killed, more than 400 houses were destroyed, and at least seven women raped by armed gangs. The U.S. Attorney's office is committed to apprehending Cherizier and bringing him to justice, along with individuals like defendant Richardson, who has sent money and other support to Cherizier from the United States in violation of U.S. sanctions. Our office is committed to keeping Americans safe anywhere in the world, and the gang violence that has ravaged Haiti must end."

"The FBI is committed to confronting foreign terrorist organizations wherever they operate, and Jimmy 'Barbecue' Cherizier's gang is no exception," said Acting Assistant Director Darren Cox of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. "Through intelligence, partnerships, and the full weight of federal law, we are dismantling FTOs and rooting out those who threaten the safety of our communities."

"The unsealing of this indictment marks the results of a lengthy investigation into Jimmy Cherizier's criminal activities," said Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd M. Lyons. "His actions to fund the oppression and slaughter of Haitians, including firearm procurement and trafficking networks, fundraising activities, movement and usage of U.S. dollars, and violations of sanctions, are unconscionable  but today marks a step towards accountability."

"The Department of State is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Jimmy Cherizier, the leader of Foreign Terrorist Organization Viv Ansanm," said Senior Bureau Official Chris Landberg of the Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. "The State Department will continue to apply its tools, including rewards programs, to combat the scourge of transnational organized crime and its violence  especially to stop the worst of the worst criminal ringleaders threatening the people of our hemisphere."

According to court documents, Cherizier is a former officer in the Haitian National Police and the leader of a gang known as the Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies who helped to forge a gang alliance called Viv Ansanm that united Haiti's many criminal gangs to oppose the legitimate government of Haiti. On Dec. 10, 2020, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Cherizier and designated him as a Specially Designated National (SDN) for his role in serious human rights abuses in Haiti. As a result of the SDN designation, U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with or for the benefit of Cherizier absent approval from OFAC in the form of a license.

As alleged in the indictment, since Cherizier's SDN designation in December 2020, Cherizier and Richardson have together led a wide-ranging conspiracy with individuals in the United States, Haiti, and elsewhere to raise funds for Cherizier's gang activities in violation of the sanctions imposed on Cherizier.

In particular, Cherizier and Richardson directly solicited money transfers from members of the Haitian diaspora located in the United States. After sending funds to intermediaries in Haiti for Cherizier's benefit, the U.S. and Haitian co-conspirators would send Cherizier images of receipts from the money transfers. Cherizier used these funds principally to pay salaries to the members of his gang and to acquire firearms from illicit firearms dealers in Haiti.

The FBI Miami Field Office and HSI Washington Field Office are investigating the case, with substantial assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Providing valuable support are the FBI Houston, Boston, and Charlotte Field Offices and the HSI Miami Field Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas N. Saunders for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Beau Barnes of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Paschall, Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Seifert, and former Trial Attorney Benjamin Koenigsfeld. Significant support was provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and the Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Topic: National Security

Components: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

USAO - District of Columbia

Press Release Number: 25-840

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Unacceptable attack on Al Jazeera journalist

Government of Norway

News story | Date: 12/08/2025

'The targeted Israeli attack on the prominent Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif and several of his colleagues in Gaza City is outrageous and completely unacceptable', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

'Over 200 journalists and media workers have already been killed in Gaza, making Gaza the most dangerous place in the world to be a reporter. Journalists play a crucial role in gathering and sharing information during armed conflicts and must be given special protection. They have done an especially important job in Gaza, where Israel denies international journalists access. This makes them the eyes of the entire world. When journalists are deliberately attacked, it is not only an attack on them directly, but on freedom of expression itself', Mr. Eide said.

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Hamas blames Netanyahu for prolonging Gaza war, ignoring fate of Israeli captives

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of insisting on continuing the war on Gaza regardless of the lives or fate of Israeli captives held in the besieged enclave.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Palestinian resistance movement said Israel persists in committing "brutal crimes" through indiscriminate bombardment across Gaza, targeting civilian homes and displacement camps.

"These daily bloody scenes claim the lives of dozens of defenseless civilians, including children, reflecting a blatant challenge to the international community and a clear insistence on pursuing a policy of genocide and organized starvation," the group said.

The movement further accused Netanyahu of prolonging a "futile war" solely to serve his political and personal interests while disregarding the captives' safety.

Hamas also condemned Israel's "systematic starvation policy," arguing that Tel Aviv deliberately obstructs aid distribution to over two million Gazans, depriving them of basic human rights, particularly access to food.

The group urged Arab and Islamic nations to pressure the US government and leverage their influence to halt Israeli aggression and prevent further displacement of Palestinians, warning that the conflict threatens regional security.

9341**2050

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IRGC: Israel's killing of journalists 'direct attack' on human principles

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has condemned Israel for killing journalists, saying that targeting journalists is a direct assault on humanitarian principles and freedom of expression.

The IRGC issued a statement on Tuesday, reacting to a targeted Israeli attack on a tent in Gaza City late on Sunday, which left five journalists dead, including prominent reporter of Al Jazeera, Anas Al-Sharif.

"The racist and wolf-like Israeli regime, which has always sought to silence the voice of truth, has once again demonstrated through this crime that it will stop at nothing to conceal its medieval atrocities and its brutal, inhumane nature," the IRGC said.

This brutal action not only violates human rights but also targets the right of nations to know the truth, it added.

"In today's cognitive war, journalists stand against lies and distortions, using their pens and cameras, and they bear the great responsibility of transmitting awareness to human societies by narrating the truth," the statement read.

The criminal Israeli regime, by assassinating journalists and media personnel, seeks to obstruct the path of truth-telling and awareness, attempting to hide the bitter reality of its crimes in "heroic and oppressed Gaza." It further said.

9376**4194

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Jordan condemns Israeli attack on Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in an urgent statement has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's systematic attacks on Al Jazeera journalists and cameramen in Gaza.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry stressed that targeting journalists constitutes a war crime and called for holding the perpetrators accountable, according to Qatari media Al Jazeera.

This condemnation comes as the international community has expressed growing concerns over the increasing attacks by the Israeli regime against journalists and media personnel in the Gaza Strip.

Palestinian media outlets reported that Israeli fighter jets carried out an airstrike targeting a journalist's tent outside the main entrance of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The attack, which took place on Sunday night, killed five media professionals, including two reporters from Qatar's Al Jazeera TV network.

According to Gaza's government information office, the recent deaths bring the total number of journalists killed during the conflict to 237.

9376**9417

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The Pennsylvania National Guard has been supporting Lithuania's Western approach to warfare for 30 years, says D. Sakaliene

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2025-08-12

International cooperation | Security and defense policy

Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene met with Adjutant General of Pennsylvania, Commander of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) Major General John Pippy. They focussed on strengthening the Lithuanian-U.S. defence cooperation and continuity of strategic projects among other things at the meeting.

"The PANG has supported us in forming a Western approach to the military for three decades. An approach which builds on trust in your soldiers, caring and ensuring opportunity for your military personnel, developing the technological edge. Our partnership covers nearly every area: from training Black Hawk pilots, formation of the Lithuanian national division, strengthening cyber defence, and developing medical capabilities to joint training and exercises. I would like to extend a special thanks to PANG Commander Major General John R. Pippy for strengthening our partnership, we appreciate seeing PANG military personnel on training in Lithuania," says Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene.

Minister pointed out that the current security situation was challenging to find new ways of cooperation on drone and drone jamming operations through sharing experience and learning from each other. It was addressed by agreeing on developing cooperation in drone and drone jamming equipment area, particularly focusing on drone operator training and experience exchange.

The partnership between Lithuania and the PANG encompasses a wide spectrum of areas, from developing the Lithuanian national division, to training Black Hawk pilots and maintenance personnel, joint training and exercises, as well as discussion on potential experience exchange in the area of crises management.

At the meeting Minister expressed hope on further PANG support to Lithuania in developing the Lithuanian 1st Division HQ and invited Commander of the 28th Infantry Division to become the Mentor to the 1st Division Commander during Exercise Avenger Triad this autumn, as well as to support the Lithuanian national 1st Division at Exercise Warfighter for certification of its operational capacity.

Other topics discussed were joint projects in cyber security and de fence, including the joint activities conducted by the U.S. and Lithuanian cyber capabilities to ensure protection of key networks from cyber threats.

Minister encouraged the PANG to become involved in multinational cyber exercises, such as Exercise Cyber Mist in November with EU, NATO and the Indo-Pacific partners in Vilnius, more actively.

The Pennsylvania National Guard has been maintaining State Partnership with Lithuania since 1993. The United States consistently supports our military capability development and rotates heavy battalions deployed in Lithuania on a persistent presence basis since 2019. The U.S. battalion in Lithuania has been reinforced with an additional artillery unit since 2022. The U.S. military presence in Lithuania is a critical deterrence and security guarantee for the Baltic states.

Lithuania provides highest level Host Nation Support to the U.S. troops on the ground and invests in modern infrastructure. Over USD 200 million has already been committed to that end. New infrastructure and campuses for the U.S. troops are planned to be unveiled this autumn.

Further in her visit, Minister D. Sakaliene will also see Chief of the National Guard Bureau General Steven Nordhaus, representatives of U.S. defence industry and AI companies and tour some of the U.S. military units.

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Gitanas Nauseda spoke with the Finnish President

President of the Republic of Lithuania

August 12, 2025

President Gitanas Nauseda spoke by telephone with President Alexander Stubb of Finland on Tuesday to discuss the international security situation and possible negotiations on peace in Ukraine.

The two leaders reaffirmed their strong support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, stressing that these fundamental principles of international law are not subject to negotiation. President Gitanas Nauseda underscored that decisions shaping the future of Ukraine and of Europe as a whole must involve representatives from both Ukraine and the European Union.

The Lithuanian leader informed his Finnish counterpart about his recent conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and expressed interest in Finland's assessment of the progress of negotiations between the United States and Russia and the outcomes of the latest meetings. He also called on Finland, together with the other Nordic-Baltic Six countries, to support Ukraine's aim to begin negotiations on European Union membership as soon as possible.

President Gitanas Nauseda also stressed the importance of continuing efforts towards comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine and of drawing the international community's attention to the fate of abducted Ukrainian children, prisoners of war, and detained civilians.

The President's Communication Group

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Gaza: UN experts appalled by murder of Al Jazeera correspondents in Israeli strike

Press releases

Special Procedures

12 August 2025

GENEVA -- The deliberate killing of four Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza, including correspondent Anas Al-Sharif, was an attempt to silence reporting on the ongoing genocide and starvation campaign in the besieged enclave, UN experts* said today, condemning the targeted attacks in the strongest possible terms.

"The killing of four journalists just as Israel announces its plan to take over Gaza City is no coincidence, but a deliberate attempt to silence those who would have exposed the IDF's atrocities to the world," the experts said.

On Sunday 10 August 2025, Israel's armed forces killed Al Jazeera correspondents Anas Al-Sharif, Mohammed Qreiqeh and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Mohammed Noufal in an airstrike on a tent near al-Shifa Hospital in eastern Gaza City. In a statement, the IDF said the killings were targeted, and accused Al-Sharif of being the head of a Hamas terrorist cell, citing alleged intelligence and documents found in Gaza.

On 31 July 2025, the Special Rapporteurs denounced serious threats and unfounded accusations against Anas Al-Sharif by an Israeli army spokesperson and flagged it as a well-known, shameful tactic by the IDF to silence the truth about heinous crimes committed in Gaza.

"It is outrageous that the Israeli army dares to first launch a campaign to smear Anas Al-Sharif as Hamas in order to discredit his reporting and then kill him and his colleagues for speaking the truth to the world," the experts said.

"We demand an immediate independent investigation into the killings and for Israel to urgently grant full access to the international media to enter Gaza. If Israel has nothing to hide, why does it continue to keep international journalists out?" they said.

"If Israel again refuses an independent investigation or access for international journalists, it will reconfirm its own culpability and cover up of the genocide."

"Journalism is not terrorism. Israel has provided no credible evidence of the latter against any of the journalists that it has targeted and killed with impunity," the experts said.

"These are acts of an arrogant army that believes itself to be impune, no matter the gravity of the crimes it commits. The impunity must end. The States that continue to support Israel must now place tough sanctions against its government in order to end the killings, the atrocities and the mass starvation."

The experts are in contact with the Government of Israel on this matter.

*The experts: Irene Khan , Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression

, Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression Francesca Albanese , Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967.

, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967. Morris Tidball-Binz, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts/Working Groups are independent human rights experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Together, these experts are referred to as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights office acts as the secretariat for Special Procedures, the experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including OHCHR and the UN. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the UN or OHCHR. Country-specific observations and recommendations by the UN human rights mechanisms, including the special procedures, the treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review, can be found on the Universal Human Rights Index https://uhri.ohchr.org/en/

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OIC Condemns Assassination of Six Journalists in Gaza Strip

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

12-08-2025

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expresses unequivocal condemnation of the assassination of journalists Anas Al-Sharif, Mohammed Qreiqeh, Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal, Moamen Aliwa, and Mohammad Al-Khaldi, following the targeted attack by the Israeli army on a journalists' tent in Gaza City on Sunday. This incident is a direct assault on press freedom, representing an apparent infringement of international legal frameworks that safeguard journalistic integrity and media operations.

The OIC also affirms that this heinous crime is part of a series of systematic violations by Israel, the occupying power, against the media and its personnel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which have resulted in the martyrdom of 242 journalists since October 7, 2023. This is part of its attempts to obscure the truth, cover up its daily crimes, and prevent them from reaching global public opinion.

The OIC unequivocally holds Israel, as the occupying power, accountable for this egregious violation, necessitating thorough investigation and accountability measures. Furthermore, it urges pertinent international bodies to take swift action to cease the intentional and systematic targeting of journalists and media professionals within the Occupied Palestinian Territory. It also emphasizes the importance of extending protective measures to these individuals in line with international humanitarian law and applicable international treaties.

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Israel is Paving the Way for Widespread Chaos in The Gaza Strip to Exacerbate Starvation and Killing-The Occupation Forces Kill 86 People Waiting for Food in One Week, and 222 Died of Hunger

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

12-08-2025

The Israeli occupation forces killed six Palestinian journalists in the Gaza Strip, bringing the number of journalists killed since the Israeli aggression on the Strip to 242. This is an attempt to conceal its crimes, which amounted to 4,994 between August 5 and 11, 2025, across the occupied Palestinian territories. The assassination of journalists is part of a policy of creating chaos, which is increasing through selective killings targeting every corner of hope in the Gaza Strip.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation's Media Observatory on Israeli Crimes against Palestinians recorded 566 Palestinians murdered and 3,564 injured during the aforementioned period. 549 people were murdered in the Gaza Strip, and civil defense personnel recovered 17 bodies. The total number of Palestinians murdered from October 7, 2023, to August 11, 2025, reached 62,528, and 162,625 were injured during the same period.

The number of Palestinians murdered among those waiting for aid reached 86 people over the past week, as the Israeli occupation army targeted the tents of displaced people in the Atyaf camp near the aid distribution centers in Al-Mawasi, and the occupation forces killed five aid security personnel in the central Gaza Strip. The incident ended with an aid truck overturning, killing 22 Palestinians who had gathered to receive aid amidst the chaos created by the Israeli occupation forces to exacerbate the famine.

Israeli settlers closed a road junction east of Jericho, preventing the passage of aid trucks coming from Jordan to the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the death toll from starvation has reached 222 Palestinians, including 101 children.

Meanwhile, Palestinian government sources in the Gaza Strip said that the aid that recently entered the Strip covers only 3% of the population's needs.

The humanitarian developments came as Human Rights Watch confirmed that the Israeli occupation forces bombed 500 schools housing displaced persons in various areas during their aggression on the Gaza Strip over the course of the aggression. Meanwhile, the Israeli occupation government approved a plan to invade Gaza City as a prelude to occupying the entire Gaza Strip, a move that portends a catastrophic situation and more widespread and horrific war crimes.

In the West Bank, Israeli occupation forces carried out 333 raids over the past seven days, during which they demolished 14 homes in Al-Quds and Bethlehem, 8 tin shacks in Jericho, and confiscated the contents of a number of tents before removing them in the village of Yarza in Tubas. They also demolished a park, a hut, and walls in the village of Al-Judeira in Al-Quds, a commercial facility and a cafe in Ramallah, and a commercial store in Bethlehem. They removed a water tank and a water line used for irrigation in the village of Yarza in Tubas, and sealed 7 springs and a water spring with cement in the town of Adh Dhahiriya in Hebron. They bulldozed two plots of agricultural land and a room near the village of Artas in Bethlehem, and confiscated a bulldozer in Hebron. They also demolished a school under construction, funded by the French Development Agency, in the village of Aqaba in Tubas. The forces served notices to vacate several homes and agricultural pens, demolish retaining walls, and uproot olive and grape trees within an area of 40 dunams. The owners were given 10 days to implement the decision in the village of Khirbet Beit Sakariya, Bethlehem.

Settlers stormed the Bab al-Rahma Cemetery, adjacent to the eastern wall of Al-Aqsa Mosque, smashing the headstones of several graves and performing Talmudic rituals several times last week, amid daily incursions into Al-Aqsa mosque by Israeli extremists.

The number of arrests of Palestinians in the West Bank over the period monitored by the OIC media observatory reached 135, including 5 children in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Hebron, and a child was injured in Jericho. Settlers also beat a child in Ramallah. The number of settler attacks in the West Bank reached 80 attacks during which settlers burned agricultural lands in the villages of Rammun, Deir Jarir and Turmus Ayya, residential tents in a Bedouin community near the village of Ras Karkar in Ramallah, an agricultural pen and 8 olive trees, and vandalized a water well in the town of Zawiya in Salfit. They cut tree branches on farms in the Qawawis area, the Khallet Ali Ghneim area, and the town of Surif in Hebron, the village of Al-Mughayyir, the village of Farkha in Salfit, the east of the town of Azzun in Qalqilya, and the town of Asira ash-Shamaliya in Nablus. They also cut down 140 trees in the town of Nahalin in Bethlehem, and 100 grape trees in the town of Susiya, in Hebron.

Settlers grazed their sheep on the lands of the village of Yatta, east of the village of Yatta in Hebron, Kafr Malik in Ramallah, the village of Farkha, and the Al-Auja Shalal community, and poisoned the heads of sheep in the Al-Auja Shalal community, which led to their death.

Settlers dug up and vandalized a water line, cutting off water supplies to residents of the village of Umm al-Khair in Hebron. They also raided the village of Bziq in Tubas, breaking into the village council building and destroying its contents. Settlers also seized a car in the town of Ur al-Tahta in Ramallah.

In the same context, the number of settlement activities reached 18, as the OIC media Observatory noted that the occupation forces are working side by side with the settlers to establish new settlement outposts every day. They paved a settlement road and erected pillars, with the aim of establishing a settlement outpost near the village of Kisan in Bethlehem. Settlers paved a settlement road in the lands of the town of Hizma in Al-Quds, bulldozed lands and placed mobile homes on them, with the aim of establishing a settlement outpost in the area of the shrine of Nabi Saleh in Hebron. They bulldozed lands overlooking the plain of the town of Beit Furik and the village of Beit Dajan, with the aim of expanding a settlement outpost in the village of Salem, and bulldozed an area south of the town of Bani Naim, with the aim of establishing another outpost.

Settlers erected a tent and a flagpole in the village of Deir Ammar, in an attempt to establish a settlement outpost, in addition to a tent on land near the Yitzhar settlement in Nablus. Others erected a tent in the Masafer town of Yatta. Settlers re-erected tents near the entrance to the village of Beit Dajan in Nablus in an attempt to re-establish a settlement outpost after its removal. Settlers established another outpost in the Shalla al-Auja cluster, where they seized a pen and laid the foundations for building tin pens. Others erected mobile homes in the town of Teqoa. Settlers attempted to establish a settlement outpost on one of the hills of the village of At-Tuwani in Hebron. They seized an area of land in the village of Dhahr al-Abed, bulldozed land in the areas of Shaqiq al-Dhiban and Hariqat al-Hamaimeh in the village of Rafat in Salfit, and bulldozed land south of the town of Dura, with the aim of expanding a settlement outpost. Others paved a settlement road near the Ayoun al-Haramiyeh junction and to the Jabal Tal al-Batin area, south of the town of Sinjil. They bulldozed land with the aim of paving a road from a settlement outpost that was established on the hills of Khirbet Masoud in Jenin. They also cut down a number of olive trees, and others began establishing a settlement outpost, by erecting tents near the entrance to the town of Atara in Ramallah after paving a dirt road leading to the area. Israel Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and the head of the northern West Bank settlements, accompanied by settlers, stormed the ruins of the "Tarsla" site next to the "Sanur" settlement, which was evacuated in 2005 near the town of Jaba, with the aim of returning the settlers to the site.

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PH Navy exec sees more accidents in WPS amid 'illegal' China presence

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

August 12, 2025, 7:52 pm

MANILA -- As long as China continues its "illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive" (ICAD) actions, there will be more collisions and mishaps in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official said Tuesday.

"From the onset of the illegal presence of the PLA (People's Liberation Army) Navy, their ICAD messaging has been the cause of concern," PN spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo.

"And so long as they will maintain their ICAD activities and presence, incidents like this may happen again in the future," he added, referring to Monday's collision between two Chinese vessels  China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3104 and PLAN warship 164  in Bajo de Masinloc.

The incident happened while CCG vessel 3104 was chasing the Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Suluan, which, along with other Philippine vessels, was attempting to provide supplies to Filipino fishermen in the area.

Trinidad said it was not the first time that a PLAN warship got involved in harassing Filipino vessels in the WPS.

"The Chinese warships of the PLAN have been conducting coercive and aggressive actions in the WPS for the past 20 or so years," he said. "It is not the first time a PLAN warship has been monitored conducting this type of illegal actions."

Despite this, Trinidad said all actions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will "always be within the bounds of international law."

"Yesterday's example should serve as a warning for all players in the maritime domain to exercise restraint and ensure their actions are within the bounds of UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), COLREGS (Collision Regulations), CUES (Conduct of Unplanned Encounters At Sea) or other pertinent references," he said. (PNA)

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PH-Japan military access deal enters into force Sept. 11

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

August 12, 2025, 7:29 pm

MANILA -- The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan will formally enter into force on Sept. 11, the Japanese Embassy in Manila announced on Tuesday.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya exchanged notes on the military deal in a ceremony in Pasay City.

The exchange of notes, witnessed by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., confirms the completion of domestic procedures required for the implementation of the RAA.

In her toast remarks, Lazaro said the deal signals Japan's "clear commitment" to the Philippines' efforts to advance defense capabilities in support of its assertion of sovereignty and sovereign rights.

"In his fourth State of the Nation address last July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said, 'In the face of new threats to our peace and sovereignty, we are now more resolute in our preparations, vigilance, and self-defense," she said.

"As the President has put it succinctly, our confidence is even greater because we have more allies who will stand with us in times of great need," she added.

Endo, for his part, said the upcoming entry into force of the deal speaks to the "strategic value" both states place on security and defense cooperation.

"Japan recognizes the Philippines as an indispensable partner, strategically positioned at the heart of the Indo-Pacific and united through our shared core values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law," he said.

The RAA, he added, not only strengthens the interoperability between the two states' forces but also affirms "mutual readiness to decisively respond to emerging challenges and opportunities."

Teodoro said the deal would also contribute towards peace and stability not only in the Asia-Pacific but also the broader Indo-Pacific.

"It also provides deterrence for those actors who may not see things the way we do and may not share our values. It provides resilience because not only will we be working with others, but we will be working with each other, close neighbors," he said.

He did not make a specific mention of any country but later alluded to China when asked about his remark on deterrence.

"Let's say, for example, China. We share the same challenges with Japan. And there's no denying that it's the truth," he said in an ambush interview.

"We share the same challenges, not only does Japan, but also Australia and New Zealand, far as it is. And Canada, too. And France, too. Because they stand out as summa cum laudes of revisionism in international law and bad behavior," he added.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the RAA serves as a "form of a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement," which provides a legal and administrative framework for the entry into and exit of defense forces, vessels, aircraft, and equipment for the purpose of "training and conduct of activities mutually agreed upon by the parties."

It clarified, however, that the RAA is not a basing agreement.

Citing Article VIII (3), the DFA said "nothing in the agreement shall be construed of as providing basis for a party to establish its military facilities in the territory of the other party."

The RAA was ratified by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and was concurred by the Senate on Dec. 16. The Japanese Parliament approved the deal last June 6.

After its entry into force, Teodoro said the Philippines and Japan would discuss the component agreements, including that of access, logistics, and constitution of relevant bodies that would meet annually. (With report from Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)

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PCG commends BRP Suluan crew for bravery in WPS incident

Philippine News Agency

By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

August 12, 2025, 6:12 pm

MANILA -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday commended the crew of the BRP Suluan for their bravery and conduct during an incident where two Chinese ships collided with each other at the Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

BRP Suluan was deployed in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to safeguard the country's maritime territory and ensure the safety and security of Filipino fishermen in the WPS.

In a ceremony at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila, PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, awarded the Coast Guard Bronze Cross Medal and Ribbon to the crew and the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal to the ship's Commanding Officer, Captain Jomark Angue.

"You have proven that indeed we are the most durable point man in keeping the peace at sea," Gavan said.

He also commended PCG personnel for their "bravery, selfless dedication, and sacrifices" in upholding safety and security within the Philippine territory.

"Bravo Zulu, everyone. There are lots of things to do, but always keep in mind that what you've done, you should always remain calm, you should always remain professional yet unyielding in the face of whoever they are," he said.

The BRP Suluan's crew and passengers consisted of 43 individuals, including members of the Coast Guard Medical Service (CGMED), Maritime Surveillance Team (MST2), Coast Guard Special Operations Force (CGSOF), Angels of the Sea from the Coast Guard Weapons, Communications, Electronics and Information System Command (CGWCEISC), media representatives from GMA Network, and personnel from the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service (CGPAS).

On Monday, BRP Suluan offered aid to a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel after the latter collided with a China People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy ship in the WPS.

PCG Spokesperson for the WPS, Commodore Jay Tarriela, said the collision between CCG vessel 3104 and PLA Navy ship 164 happened while the two Chinese ships were chasing BRP Suluan at high speed. (PNA)

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House leaders condemn latest water cannon attack on PCG vessel

Philippine News Agency

By Jose Cielito Reganit

August 12, 2025, 4:46 pm

MANILA -- Leaders of the House of Representatives on Tuesday condemned the latest water cannon attack by the China Coast Guard (CCG) on a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.

The incident happened on Monday in the Scarborough Shoal area, according to the PCG, with BRP Suluan successfully evading a water cannon blast from CCG-3104, resulting in a collision between the CCG craft and a warship of the China's People's Liberation Army Navy.

"The Chinese have become victims of their own aggression," Deputy Speaker and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V said.

"They are not supposed to be in Scarborough in the first place. They are intruders there. That area off Zambales and Pangasinan is what is known to our fishermen as Bajo de Masinloc. It is their traditional fishing ground," he said.

China seized Scarborough Shoal in 2012 after a standoff between CCG and PCG. It has since been harassing Filipino fisherfolk in the area and Philippine ships patrolling it.

Deputy Speaker and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun, said China's aggression "endangers not only our people but their own."

"What happened on Monday is karma manifesting itself, if the Chinese understand the word. What goes around comes around. Unfortunately for them, they were at the receiving end of their own misdeed," Khonghun said.

For his part, House Deputy Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong urged China to learn its lesson from Monday's incident.

"There is nothing to be gained in claiming a territory belonging to another country and refusing to recognize the ruling of an arbitral tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea that favored the Philippines, even if many countries acknowledge or support that ruling," he said.

"It's time that Beijing stop its aggressive activities in the West Philippine Sea, from Scarborough Shoal in the north off Zambales and Pangasinan to Ayungin Shoal in the south near Palawan, areas that are far away from China," he said.

Adiong also appealed to Beijing and its "disinformation peddlers" not to reverse the narrative of Monday's incident.

Meanwhile, the three House leaders praised the PCG crew "for acting professionally in the face of provocation from their Chinese counterparts." (PNA)

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DFA hits China for endangering PCG vessel in WPS, urges dialogue

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

August 12, 2025, 3:17 pm

MANILA -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday afternoon criticized China over its latest "unlawful interference" with routine Philippine operations in the Bajo de Masinloc, also known as the Scarborough Shoal, resulting in the collision of its own vessels on Monday.

DFA Spokesperson Angelica Escalano said the dangerous maneuvers conducted by the ships People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ship 164 and the China Coast Guard (CCG) ship 3104 posed grave danger to both Philippine personnel and vessels.

"The Department is seriously concerned by the dangerous maneuvers of two vessels of the PLAN and the CCG, and their unlawful interference with a routine humanitarian operation for Filipino fisherfolk in and around the territorial sea of Bajo de Masinloc, which is a longstanding and integral part of Philippine territory," she said.

"Their actions not only posed a grave danger to Philippine personnel and vessels, but also resulted in the unfortunate collision between the two Chinese vessels," she added.

The Philippine government, she said, is ready to work with China to "draw lessons" from the latest incident.

Before this, Escalano said Manila has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maritime safety in the area, including adhering to the 1972 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS).

Manila, she said, is keen on utilizing diplomacy and dialogue to address differences and produce positive outcomes, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to manage the situation in the West Philippine Sea constructively and settle disputes peacefully.

"As we continue to maintain our presence in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines will unstintingly assert and protect its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in accordance with international law," she said.

The latest incident took place off the Bajo de Masinloc on Monday morning, while the CCG vessel was chasing BRP Suluan at high speed.

Visibly suffering from significant damage after the collision, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) immediately offered assistance, including medical aid and the towing of the damaged ship out of the area.

The DFA, for its part, praised the PCG for its "calm professionalism and world-class seamanship." (PNA)

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Iran's top security official travels to Lebanon for key talks

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 11:45 PM

Iran's top security official travels to Lebanon in what has been billed as an important trip seeking to discuss concerns about the Lebanese security amid US pressure to disarm anti-Israeli resistance in the country, a move opposed by most Lebanese people.

Upon departing for Beirut on Tuesday, Ali Larijani, head of the Islamic Republic's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), described the regional Axis of Resistance as "part of the very fabric of the region's people."

"Therefore, it pursues the interests of the region's people; each [component] within its own sphere and in its own country," the official noted.

He was referring to Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement and its fellow such factions across the West Asia region, such as Palestinian resistance groups and Yemen's Ansarullah movement.

"These groups are a national asset for their respective countries. They possess a sound understanding of the situation and know what to do at any given juncture," the official said.

"Therefore, every effort must be directed towards preserving this capacity."

The visit comes around a week after the Lebanese cabinet endorsed the objectives of a United States proposal for disarming Hezbollah by the end of the year.

Hezbollah has condemned the government's decision as a "grave sin," warning that such decision fully serves the interests of the Israeli regime.

A recent opinion poll, however, found that the majority of the Lebanese dismissed the disarmament and believed that the country's army was not capable of confronting Israeli acts of aggression on its own.

The movement has successfully fought off two wholesale Israeli wars on the country in 2000 and 2006.

In 2023, it began launching determined solidarity strikes in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, who had come under a genocidal war by the Zionist regime.

The regime began escalating its deadly aggression against Lebanon in response, but was eventually forced to agree to a ceasefire deal as a result of Hezbollah's resolute defensive and retaliatory operations.

The Lebanese people have, meanwhile, been staging protests throughout the country against the American plot, calling the scheme a continuation of Washington's unwavering support for Tel Aviv's regional atrocities.

Prior to Larijani's visit, which comes despite reported American pressure on Beirut to cancel the trip, Lebanese social media frequenters made the hashtag "Iran is our supporter" trend.

The Islamic Republic has unexceptionally supported the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Lebanon, which apart from enduring several full-scale Israeli assaults, has also had its Shebaa Farms - a strip of land bordering the occupied Palestinian territories - occupied by Tel Aviv since 1967.

Tehran has warned that succumbing to American and Israeli drives to disarm the resistance would expose the country to Tel Aviv's US-backed expansionist ambitions.

'A trip made at a critical juncture, set to benefit both nations'

Commenting on Larijani's visit, Iran's Ambassador to Beirut Mojtaba Amani said the trip "comes at a critical juncture in the Lebanese history."

"Larijani will convey Iran's viewpoint in his meetings," he said, adding, "The outcomes of the official's upcoming talks in Beirut will benefit both Iran and Lebanon, as well as their security."

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Support Gaza or face enemy attacks, Yemen warns as it launches new pro-Palestinian operation

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 10:31 PM

Yemen's Armed Forces have strongly warned the country's fellow Arab and Muslim nations against abandoning the Palestinian cause, after conducting another successful pro-Palestinian operation.

The forces passed the remarks in a statement in early Wednesday, warning the nations that "enemy's plan to erase Palestine risks serious impact on Arab and Islamic nations."

"Eliminating the Palestinian cause [of liberation from Israeli occupation and aggression] will lead the enemy to target other peoples, countries unless they support Gaza's steadfastness," they added.

As part of the same statement, the servicemen announced slamming as many as six explosive-laden drones into four critically sensitive targets across the occupied Palestinian territories.

They identified three of the targets as the occupied ports of Haifa and Eilat, which is the Israeli regime's sole Red Sea maritime hub, and the occupied city of Be'er Sheva, its epicenter of "technological advancement."

Back in July, the regime was forced to shut down Eilat amid similar unremitting Yemeni strikes.

The fourth target of the most recent pro-Palestinian strike was named as a site lying in the Negev Desert, which hosts many strategically important military installations.

"The operations successfully achieved their objectives," the statement added.

As in their previous announcements, the servicemen vowed to sustain their strikes that began right after the regime launched a war of genocide on the Gaza Strip in October 2023.

The operations, they asserted, would last as long as Tel Aviv sustained the warfare - which has so far claimed the lives of at least 61,600 Palestinians, mostly women and children - and a simultaneous siege it has been enforcing on the Palestinian territory.

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EU, global partners call for swift action on imminent famine in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 6:33 PM

Foreign ministers from dozens of countries and senior EU officials have warned that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached "unimaginable levels," calling on Israel to lift restrictions on aid and international humanitarian organizations operating in the besieged territory.

"The humanitarian suffering in Gaza has reached unimaginable levels. Famine is unfolding before our eyes. Urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation," the EU's foreign policy chief and foreign ministers from 24 countries, including Japan, Britain, Canada, and Australia, said in a joint statement on Tuesday.

The statement stressed that humanitarian space must be protected, and aid should never be politicized.

It further warned that "due to restrictive new registration requirements, essential international NGOs may be forced to leave the occupied Palestinian territories imminently which would worsen the humanitarian situation still further".

Countries signing the statement said that there is a need for immediate, permanent, and concrete steps to facilitate safe and large-scale access for the UN, international NGOs, and humanitarian partners in Gaza.

"All crossings and routes must be used to allow a flood of aid into Gaza, including food, nutrition supplies, shelter, fuel, clean water, medicine and medical equipment," the statement said.

The document, signed by EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas, asked Israel to "provide authorization for all international NGO aid shipments and to unblock essential humanitarian actors from operating".

The top diplomats said that "lethal force must not be used at distribution sites, and civilians, humanitarians and medical workers must be protected".

Israel has faced mounting criticism over its 22-month-long war on Gaza, with United Nations-backed experts warning of widespread famine unfolding in the besieged territory.

UN-mandated experts have warned that Gaza is slipping into famine, while international organizations have condemned the months-long restrictions imposed by the Israeli regime on aid distribution in Gaza.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Tuesday, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, which controls Gaza, accused Israel of engineering starvation and chaos in the territory by imposing deadly conditions on aid distribution and blocking international humanitarian organizations from carrying out safe delivery of aid.

The statement noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pursuing the war to serve his political and personal interests, with complete disregard for the lives of the Israeli captives held by Hamas.

Hamas also urged the international community to take action to stop the siege, starvation, and genocide in Gaza.

The developments come as the death toll from forced starvation in Gaza has risen to 227, including 103 children, as the humanitarian crisis in the besieged strip keeps deepening.

Gaza on Tuesday experienced more loss of lives and widespread destruction as Israeli forces continued their strikes across the aid-deprived territory.

Israel's genocidal war, which began in October 2023, has so far claimed nearly 61,600 lives while leaving more than 154,000 people injured.

he lives of at least 61,600 Palestinians, mostly women and children - and a simultaneous siege it has been enforcing on the Palestinian territory.

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Israel's military trying to cover up 'internationally documented crime' in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 3:21 PM

Authorities in Gaza say the Israeli military is desperately and pathetically attempting to cover up internationally documented crimes and the systematic starvation of the population across the blockaded Palestinian territory.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Gaza's Government Media Office stated that the UN and other international organizations had documented scores of deaths "as a result of starvation and lack of food and medicine due to the closure of crossings, the imposition of a comprehensive blockade, and the prevention of the entry of food and aid."

The statement seems to have been a response to an Israeli military's post published on X that claimed, "Hamas is misrepresenting deaths from pre-existing medical conditions as malnutrition to advance their political agenda."

"The occupation claimed that some of the martyrs suffered from chronic diseases to exonerate itself, but international law is clear: even chronically ill people need food, medical care, and medicine, all of which the occupation has deprived them of through its policy of blockade and prevention of their entry into Gaza," it added.

Elsewhere in the statement, the office insisted that the death toll issued by the Palestinian Ministry of Health is "accurate and documented according to clear health standards".

Gaza lies in ruins after 22 months of Israel's genocidal war, raising concerns about worsening starvation in the territory.

Palestinian health officials warned that hundreds of people could die as hospitals were overwhelmed with patients experiencing dizziness and exhaustion amid a breakdown in aid deliveries.

Food crisis experts have been warning of an imminent famine in Gaza amid the all-out Israeli war and blockade.

The Israeli attacks have intensified in Gaza City and other parts of the besieged territory as United Nations experts warned that the "worst-case scenario of famine" is unfolding in the besieged territory, where forced starvation and malnutrition are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths among the Palestinians.

Death and destruction are raging across Gaza as more Palestinians fall victim to indiscriminate attacks by the Israeli military.

Dozens of Palestinians, including aid seekers, have been killed in fresh attacks across Gaza since dawn on Tuesday.

At least 89 Palestinians, including 31 aid seekers, have been killed and 513 injured in Israeli attacks across the territory in the past 24 hours, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

The Israeli genocide, which began in October 2023 with direct support from the United States, has so far killed nearly 61,600 Palestinians, leaving more than 154,000 others injured.

Earlier this year, research published in the Lancet medical journal estimated that the death toll in Gaza was about 40% higher than numbers recorded by the Palestinian Health Ministry.

The study reviewed hospital records, online civilian death submissions, and an independently compiled list based on social media obituaries and death announcements.

By comparing the three lists, researchers concluded that the number of people killed in Gaza was significantly higher than the figure reported by health authorities in the besieged territory.

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'Come to me, coward': Maduro dares Trump over $50 million bounty

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 2:09 PM

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has challenged US President Donald Trump to arrest him after Washington announced it was doubling a bounty to $50 million for any information leading to his arrest.

The reward is part of longstanding US charges against Maduro and other senior Venezuelan officials, accusing them of narcotics trafficking, corruption, and human rights abuses. Maduro has repeatedly rejected the allegations, describing them as politically motivated.

"Come for me, I will wait here in Miraflores, don't be late, coward," Maduro said in a fiery speech on Monday, days after the new US announcement.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil has also dismissed the bounty as "pathetic" and "political propaganda."

Washington's charges date back to 2020 during Trump's first term, when the US Justice Department accused Maduro of "narco-terrorism".

Sanctions have also been imposed to pressure the Venezuelan leader to step down in favor of opposition leader Juan Guaido, whom the US and its Western allies have recognized as the country's legitimate president.

Maduro, however, has secured a third term in office after Venezuela's National Electoral Council declared him the winner of last year's presidential election.

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Israeli war minister, military chief clash over military appointments amid Gaza occupation plot

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 10:48 AM

Israeli minister of military affairs Israel Katz has openly clashed with chief of military staff Eyal Zamir regarding a meeting the general held about high-level military appointments, saying it was not coordinated with him.

Prior to the military's official announcement, a list of promoted officers was leaked to and published by multiple media outlets. This prompted Katz to publicly condemn the military chief's measure.

Katz said the meeting held by Zamir was conducted "contrary" to the minister of military affairs' "directive and without prior coordination and agreement, in violation of established procedure."

Katz said he had "no intention of discussing or approving any of the appointments or names" that were leaked.

"The chief of staff will be required to coordinate in advance" with the minister of military affairs in order to discuss these or other appointments in the future, he added.

After officially announcing the appointments following midnight, Zamir hit back at Katz with a statement from the Israeli military saying, "The chief of staff is the sole authority under regulations for appointing commanders at the rank of colonel and above in the [military]."

The spat continued Tuesday morning, when Katz issued another statement insisting that he would follow the accepted procedures.

Unnamed military sources cited by several Hebrew media outlets on Tuesday accused Katz of "blackmail" and treating the army chief as if he were a junior soldier.

They alleged that Zamir had attempted for around a month to schedule a meeting with Katz regarding the round of appointments, without success.

A source cited by Ynet claimed that in an act of "unprecedented blackmail," the issue was being linked by Katz to the administration's demand that the military prepare for the takeover of Gaza City, as approved last week by the cabinet, despite reported objections by Zamir and other top military officials.

Sources were cited by the outlet as assessing that while Katz was sending out the scathing messages, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the one actually behind the barrage.

Katz has engaged in previous public disputes with Zamir, continuing a pattern of visible tensions with military leadership. This includes repeated clashes with former chief of military affairs Herzi Halevi, as well as conflicts with other high-ranking officers such as ex-spokesperson Daniel Hagari and current spy director Shlomi Binder.

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid slammed the administration as "crazy" over the fracas, saying that "even a basic event like appointing officers in the [military] doesn't go by without leaks, fights, slander and nighttime announcements."

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Israeli army continues to silence voices reporting its atrocities in Gaza, says UNRWA

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 7:15 AM

The commissioner general of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has condemned Israel for massacring five Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza, saying the occupying regime's military continues to silence voices reporting its atrocities in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Philippe Lazzarini, in a post on X on Monday, expressed horror at the killing of Al Jazeera correspondents Anas al-Sharif and Mohammed Qreiqeh, cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Moamen Aliwa, and their assistant Mohammed Noufal.

"Since the war began, more than 200 Palestinian journalists have been reported killed with total impunity," Lazzarini said.

He further stressed, "Israel is also blocking access of international journalists to report independently since the war began nearly two years ago."

Lazzarini emphasized the need to protect journalists and allow international media into Gaza to support the heroic work of their Palestinian colleagues.

"Journalists must be protected and international media must get into Gaza to support the heroic work of their Palestinian colleagues," the senior UN official pointed out.

Lazzarini concluded, "This is the only way to counter disinformation and prevent doubts about the scale of atrocities committed in Gaza."

British PM 'gravely concerned' over targeting of journalists in Gaza

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed deep concern about the persistent targeting of journalists in Gaza, following the recent loss of five reporters in an Israeli airstrike.

"We are gravely concerned by the repeated targeting of journalists in Gaza," a spokesperson for Starmer told reporters.

"Reporters covering conflicts are afforded protection under international humanitarian law, and journalists must be able to report independently, without fear, and Israel must ensure journalists can carry out their work safely."

The Israeli army targeted a journalists' tent near the al-Shifa Hospital in western Gaza City late on Sunday, killing five journalists, according to Gaza's Government Media Office.

The Gaza government condemned "Israel's systematic assassination of Palestinian reporters in Gaza" and called on human rights and media institutions to "condemn these systematic crimes against Gaza journalists."

At least 61,499 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and another 153,575 individuals injured in the brutal Israeli onslaught on Gaza since October 7, 2023, according to the health ministry of Gaza.

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Iran slams Israel's attacks on vaccine production facilities, public health centers

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 6:25 AM

A senior Iranian diplomat has denounced Israel's attacks during the 12-day imposed war on Iran's vaccine and drug production facilities and public health centers as a clear violation of international law and a threat to regional and global biological security.

Heidar Ali Balouji, director of the disarmament and arms control department at the Iranian Foreign Ministry, made the remarks at a meeting of the Working Group on Strengthening of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Biological Weapons (BWC) in Geneva on Monday.

Referring to Israel's aggressive, direct, and deliberate attacks on vaccine, medicine, and health production facilities and other similar centers in Iran, Balouji condemned the actions as a clear violation of international law and the basic principles of the Convention.

On June 13, Israel launched an unprovoked war against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians.

On June 24, Iran ultimately succeeded in halting the war through its retaliatory operations against the Israeli regime.

Balouji also warned that these attacks, in addition to harming national capacities in the field of public health, endanger regional and global biosecurity.

He underscored that attacks on peaceful biological facilities violate the fundamental rights of member states to the peaceful use of biological sciences and constitute an attack on the entire global disarmament regime.

The Iranian diplomat also called on the international community to firmly condemn these actions and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The Working Group on Strengthening of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Biological Weapons was established by the decision of the Ninth Review Conference of the Convention in 2022. Its key focus areas include fostering international cooperation and assistance, assessing relevant scientific and technological advancements, and examining verification mechanisms. It will continue its activities at least until the end of 2026

Elsewhere in his remarks, Balouji underscored the importance of support for BWC's global partnership, especially in West Asia.

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The Spanish Government condemns Israel's attack that has caused the death of six journalists in Gaza

Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

PRESS STATEMENT 079

12 Aug 25

The Spanish Government condemns Israel's attack that has caused the death of six journalists in Gaza.

Almost 200 journalists have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the start of the conflict. The right to information is essential to guarantee freedom of expression and access to information for all citizens.

Attacks against journalists constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law and must not go unpunished.

NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION

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Do you know the names of your great-grandparents?

A 2022 survey from Ancestry revealed that less than half of Americans can name all four grandparents, and only 4% know the names of their eight great-grandparents.

Mandan native Johan Stenslie sees this gap in family knowledge as a problem worth fixing. Through genealogy, the study of family histories and lineages, he intends to do just that for the Norwegian-Americans of North Dakota.

What's in a name?

Living in Bergen, Norway, since 2023, Stenslie is a historian and the founder of Stone Hill Genealogy and Family History, in which he specializes in tracking down the untold, forgotten stories of Norwegians. As a Norwegian-American himself, the name Stenslie gave his company was not arbitrary. "Stenslie" literally translates to "stony hillside," and was the name of the farm in eastern Norway his own family lived on.

"You can guess, that's the worst possible land you can have to farm on," he said of the spot his ancestors once inhabited before immigrating to America. "In the name, it tells the story of my family's socioeconomic class, and even kind of gives the reason for their immigration."

Stenslie has long held an affinity for the past; both he and his father were history teachers, and he spent many summers as a teenager working at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, reciting stories of the land and its people to visitors.

This passion for local history eventually led to a passion for his own family's history, and during one particular visit he made to his grandparents in 2021, something clicked for Stenslie. He couldn't stop asking them questions about the family's past, and he found himself poring over their basement for forgotten family treasures -- including love letters written by his great-great-grandfather.

Since then, his interest in Norwegian genealogy has expanded far beyond his own family tree, and he has researched more than 100 subjects for clients all over North Dakota and Minnesota. More than just a business, his pursuit of history is a way of life.

"I'm addicted," Stenslie said. "There's no other way to say it."

How does Stenslie compile the past?

As a genealogist, Stenslie pulls from many different sources to paint an accurate family history for his clients, but it always starts with a name. Specifically, he asks for the full name and birth date of one grandparent -- just one, he says, because simultaneously researching more than one branch of a family tree can get overwhelming quick. From there, he works his way back in time until he pins down the first relatives to arrive from Scandinavia. After Stenslie's research takes him across the Atlantic, the real work begins.

As far back as the 16th century, churches in Norway have kept books detailing births, baptisms, deaths and other important community happenings, Stenslie said. These tomes, many of which have since been digitally preserved, serve as Stenslie's launch point for finding out about ancestors who lived and died in the country. Children's baptism records are especially useful, as they typically include the full names of parents, the occupation of the father and, crucially, the family's address. Usually, Stenslie can even locate down to the coordinates where somebody lived.

Armed with these supplementary details, Stenslie seeks out court and census records, local history books and more, building a fully fledged story out of everything he can find on the family he is researching.

This whole process typically takes just a few days, and Stenslie has done it more than 118 times. However, the lives he has uncovered stick with him long after his research has ended.

'Bringing people back from the dead'

"It is intense research. I mean, these are real stories," Stenslie said. "It feels like I'm writing a story -- which I am -- but I'm discovering that story, which is so compelling ... But it is heavy, because in so much of these stories, the human suffering aspect is so central."

"Intense" and "suffering" are good words to describe some of the lives that Stenslie investigates. The history he uncovers, including tales of impoverished farmers, desperate immigrants, young women and illegitimate children, are wrought with tragedy -- and, thankfully, a good deal of triumph.

Take the story of Martin Henrickson, a Swede who lived just 6 miles east of the Norwegian border. In 1867-68 alone, a 7-year-old Henrickson suffered through his father's suicide, the death of his baby sister and a famine that killed tens of thousands of his countrymen. Years later, when his family could finally afford to pay for all but one member's immigration to America, it was Henrickson who had to stay behind.

Henrickson did eventually make his own journey across the Atlantic. By 1889, he had a wife and a farm in North Dakota's Steele County, where he lived out the rest of his days as a beloved member in the community. That's not to say his troubles ended in Sweden; America had its own challenges in store for Henrickson, not the least of which was a murderously obsessed farmhand with a revolver and an inability to take rejection. For more on that, read the full story of Martin Henrickson -- and other Scandinavians -- on Stone Hill's Facebook page.

Stories such as the Henricksons are fascinating in their own right, but to Stenslie, the act of cataloguing these forgotten lives serves a far greater purpose.

"I think with every project I do, I also get a deeper sense of myself," he said. "It makes me feel much more connected to the past, and much more grateful for my own life and lived experience."

For the clients he serves, Stenslie sees unearthing their family's past as a way of keeping it alive.

"I'm doing research on individuals that have never been researched before, so this idea that I'm almost bringing people back from the dead and doing something original in these families is just so compelling and endlessly fascinating," he said.

'Snapshots of the bigger story'

The practice of genealogy is, by its nature, small in scale. Instead of nations, wars, plagues and other huge episodes of mankind, family historians such as Stenslie zoom in on the lives and lineages of the very people who made up such landmark events. While Stenslie thinks that "big picture" history is important and fascinating on its own, he remains dedicated to the smaller vignettes that stitch together the story of humanity.

"I think so much of life is this kind of attempt to understand, like, 'Why do I exist?' And family history shows two remarkable, paradoxical truths: It makes you feel so insignificant, because you just realize, 'So many people have lived throughout history, the world is so big, and I'm just this drop in the ocean.' But on the opposite side (you realize that), 'I exist today because of the decisions of thousands upon thousands upon tens of thousands of people who I know nothing about. I wouldn't exist today if it wasn't for them,'" he said.

"I feel like it gives me a stronger sense of meaning. To think, all of these things that happened so that I can exist," Stenslie said. "It's just inconceivable."

Stenslie encourages everyone to investigate their family's past, and the best place to start, he says, is with the people around you. Talk to the oldest relatives you can find, ask about their experiences and what they remember about their family; dig in basements for old letters and photos; and, above all else, remember that sometime in the future, your descendants will be seeking the very same information about your life, he said.

"Start preserving the stories of the people closest to you," he said. "That's how we preserve snapshots of the bigger story."

Those interested in learning more about Stenslie, the Norwegian-American experience or genealogy in general should mark their calendars. At 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, The Sons of Norway and the Bismarck Veteran's Memorial Public Library will be hosting the Crossings 200 event in the Library's Meeting Room A.

Crossings 200 is a celebration of two centuries of Norwegian immigration to North America, and Stenslie will be the featured speaker. More details can be found on the Library's website.
Samvel Karapetyan Seeks $500M in Arbitration Against Armenia Over Utility Seizure

Sputnik News

20250812

YEREVAN (Sputnik) - Armenian businessman Samvel Karapetyan has launched arbitration proceedings against Armenia for seizing his utility company, Electric Networks of Armenia, in a bid to secure $500 million in compensation, his lawyers said on Tuesday.

"On August 11, Samvel Karapetyan and his family formally initiated international arbitration proceedings against Armenia over the expropriation of Electric Networks of Armenia ... The Karapetyan family demands that the arbitration court obligate Armenia to compensate for the damage both already incurred and expected. The damage is preliminarily estimated at $500 million, subject to final assessment by the arbitration court," the lawyers said in a statement.

The proceedings are based on the 1995 agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments signed between Armenia and Cyprus. The lawyers claim that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan ordered a crackdown on Karapetyan and his business in Armenia, particularly announcing plans to transfer the businessman's largest asset, the Electric Networks of Armenia, under state management. Romanos Petrosyan, who previously held the position of head of the state control service, was appointed as the company's caretaker manager.

The Karapetyan family proposed settling the dispute through negotiations, but the Armenian government refused to talk, the lawyers said. The family was forced to apply for emergency arbitration by the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce. On July 22, the emergency arbitration panel ordered Armenia to refrain from confiscating the property and reiterated this on August 4. Armenia publicly rejected the binding nature of the arbitration decision and continued their actions against the Electric Networks of Armenia, the lawyers said.

Thus, Armenia failed to protect Karapetyan's interests and investments and unlawfully seized the company in violation of its international agreements, the statement read.

In June, Karapetyan expressed support for the Armenian Apostolic Church amid tensions with the government. On June 18, a court in Yerevan ordered Karapetyan to be detained for two months on charges of making public calls to seize power in Armenia. On August 11, the Armenian Court of Appeal ruled that his detention was unlawful.

 Sputnik

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Over 15,000 Colombians Participate in Conflicts Abroad - Lawmaker

Sputnik News

20250812

MONTEVIDEO (Sputnik) - The number of Colombian citizens who participated in international conflicts as employees of security companies exceeds 15,000, Colombian Congress member Alirio Uribe Munoz told Sputnik.

In early August, Colombian President Gustavo Petro said he had asked the country's parliament to urgently consider a draft law banning mercenary activities.

"We have more than 15,000 people who participated in international conflicts, hired by security companies that supply soldiers for international armed conflicts," Uribe Munoz said.

He noted that since Colombia has lived through a 60-year conflict and many of its military personnel have been trained at the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation or by the Israelis, third countries are recruiting Colombians to participate in the fighting.

In this regard, Colombia needs legislation prohibiting mercenarism "to control this type of business," Uribe Munoz added.

In July, Russian Ambassador in Bogota Nikolai Tavdumadze told Sputnik that the number of Colombians fighting alongside Ukrainian armed forces remained high. He also said that the Colombian parliament was looking into a bill that would have Colombia join the International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries.

The Russian Defense Ministry has repeatedly warned that Kiev has been using foreign fighters as "cannon fodder" and that the Russian military will continue to strike mercenary troops across Ukraine. Colombians have been complaining about poor coordination in the Ukrainian armed forces, which makes survival in the high-intensity conflict in Ukraine much harder than in Afghanistan or the Middle East.

 Sputnik

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Sanctioning Critical Minerals Traffickers Stoking Armed Conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

US Department of State

Press Statement

Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson

August 12, 2025

Today, the United States is sanctioning armed groups carrying out illegal mining and supply chain actors profiteering from conflict minerals in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Department of the Treasury is designating four entities producing and trading in conflict minerals in Rubaya, an expansive mining area rich in critical minerals.

Today's sanctions impose consequences on actors who destabilize the eastern DRC. They target one of many armed groups carrying out illegal mining operations including through forced labor and violence against civilians. They also counter companies in the DRC and China that partner with armed groups to profiteer off instability to steal the mineral wealth of the DRC. Today, the United States is sending a clear message that no armed group or commercial entity is immune from sanctions if they undermine peace, stability, or security in the DRC.

Through the U.S.-mediated peace process, especially the Regional Economic Integration Framework, the United States supports the DRC and Rwanda in building a more peaceful and prosperous future. The United States is resolved to end the exploitation of conflict minerals in the Great Lakes region. The U.S. government will continue to take action to support a mining sector that contributes to lasting stability and economic development in the Great Lakes region and secure, reliable global critical minerals supply chains.

The Department of the Treasury's actions were taken pursuant to E.O. 13413, as amended, which authorizes the imposition of sanctions on persons who have engaged in activity which threatens the peace, security, or stability of the DRC or supported persons that are involved in such activities, including through the illicit trade in natural resources of the DRC. For more information, see the Department of the Treasury's press release.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio with Sid Rosenberg of Sid and Friends in the Morning

US Department of State

Interview

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

Via Telephone

August 12, 2025

QUESTION: So here he is, the Secretary of State, one of the finest people we've got in this country, my old friend, Marco Rubio. Marco, good morning, pal. How are you?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Hey, good, good. I'm doing well, Sid. Thank you. Great to be back with you on the radio.

QUESTION: You know what's funny? You're not going to remember this, but we had the debate on my show 15 years ago at Frank's place in Fort Lauderdale when you beat -

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.

QUESTION:  Charlie Crist and Kendrick Meek. You remember that.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.

QUESTION: But the following year - May 2nd, 2011, Marco - you called my show unprovoked because the day before because we killed Bin Ladin. And I have the audio.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.

QUESTION: In 2011. Does that feel like a long time ago?

SECRETARY RUBIO: It really does. They had that whole Netflix program about it the other day. You know what's amazing about that whole thing, is that the night before that happened was the - that correspondent dinner people used to all go to. That's kind of been dead now here, but - and Trump was in the audience that night. And Obama sort of 

QUESTION: He was?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah. Trump was in the audience at the correspondent dinner. That was the night right before. And Obama was, like, making jokes about him, and this, that, and the other.

QUESTION: That's right.

SECRETARY RUBIO: And a lot of people - and a lot of people say that was the night that Donald Trump decided he was going to run for president. And he didn't run right away; he waited four years. So I think that was a heck of a night, all these people in that place, that thing happened, the next morning the Bin Ladin thing happened. So anyway, yeah, no, time flies. That was back in 2011. That's crazy.

QUESTION: Fourteen years ago, you're right. That was the impetus, that was the motivation, behind President Trump eventually running.

So look, before we get to the stuff at hand with the country, I've got to tell you this. I know she's listening right now. Your girl, Laura Ortiz Rodriguez, is great. And she's Colombian, and I know that you are very close to a lot of Colombian people. Your wife is Colombian American, for example; terrific lady. And many of my listeners up here are Colombian. So yesterday we learned about the passing of the young presidential candidate Colombian Senator Uribe. He was shot in the streets of Bogota two months ago - feels like yesterday. But now he's died. So I'll ask you, Mr. Secretary: What are your thoughts on this tragic passing? What does that mean for Colombia moving forward?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I hope it doesn't lead to more incivility. Look, first of all, he actually comes from a family that's been touched by tragedy before. His own mother was well known as well, and then she was held hostage by one of these drug cartels and died in an operation trying to save her. So he had already lived his life of pain in that regard, and then ran for office. And then - so I don't know if you saw the video, but the guy just walks up to the back of him and just shoots him right in the head.

QUESTION: Yeah.

SECRETARY RUBIO: In a rally. And this is still a year away. So look, we're very concerned about Colombia. Unfortunately, the president of Colombia right now, this guy Petro, is just in our view someone who has been quite erratic in his decision making and some of the things he's doing. And that's a problem because you have these drug gangs that are operating out of Venezuela with impunity. Like, no one challenges them. They openly operate out of Venezuela but project power into Colombia and are destabilizing the country. And it would be tragic because Colombia's come a long way. People forget in the early '90s, Colombia was basically a failed state. I mean, it was on the verge of a collapsed state, and they fought so hard to reclaim the country from the cartels. And just the thought that it could slip backwards due to political violence or drug violence or whatever in any way is just heartbreaking.

And we just hope that the institutions in Colombia - the military, the courts, all the - many of the people there in the congress, in their congress, are not for this game plan that's going on right now. And so they'll have elections in about a year and hopefully the country will get back on the track that it was on, which is one of the strongest, closest partners America has in the region, and a country that's come so far. But I think we've lost some ground here over the last three years, and it's just sad being so close to it in terms of, like, so many people I know that are from there or still stay in touch with it.

QUESTION: Terrible. And Mr. Secretary, you mentioned the cartels, and I must give you guys credit - you, Trump, the whole administration. What a tremendous job. Really, the easy one was first just recognizing the cartels as a terrorist organization; it should have been a long time ago. So thank you for doing that. But you mentioned Venezuela. I think the reward is up to 50 million now for Maduro. Is that right?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah. Yeah. And what people forget about Maduro - they call him a dictator because he is and all that - he's not a government official. In essence, we don't recognize his government as legitimate. That is not a legitimate government. What he is is the head of a drug trafficking logistics organization - a cartel, the Cartel of the Suns, which is basically run by the military. They basically allow drug dealers not just to move drugs through Venezuela but to do so using, like, military facilities, okay. So they have - it's like a drug cartel took control of the national territory. So they need to be treated for what it is, which is not a government, not a dictatorship per se; it is a drug cartel. It is a narco-terrorist regime that's empowered itself of Venezuelan territory. And from there it extends down to the Mexican cartels, the gangs in Ecuador and through Central America. But we've got to take this stuff seriously. They are flooding our country with poison every single day, destroying and ending American lives, ripping up American families, wiping out American communities. At some point we've got to say we're going to take this people on, and we've got to take them on with more than just rewards, by the way.

QUESTION: Yeah, that's right. So while we talk about designating the cartels, Marco, as a terrorist organization, I got to ask you: Why wouldn't you guys designate the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR? I just - I look at these organizations, I have a mayor's race here in New York City with this psycho, this lunatic Mamdani. Both of these groups you know are behind him, especially the Muslim Brotherhood. Is that something you think we can count on maybe in the near future? Maybe not CAIR just yet, but certainly the Muslim Brotherhood?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah, all of that is in the works, and obviously there are different branches of the Muslim Brotherhood, so you'd have to designate each one of them. But let me just tell you that there's a process which I didn't fully appreciate till I came into this job, and I know people don't want to hear about processes, but because these things are going to be challenged in court, right? Any group can say, "Well, I'm not really a terrorist - that organization is not a terrorist organization," so you have to show your - you have to show your - the paperwork. You have to show your work like the - like a math problem when you go before court.

So we have to go through this process internally where you have to do the review, you have to document and justify what it is. You can know something is what it is, but you still got to go through it so that when someone comes back, as you've seen - they don't hesitate to go to court now. We are tied up in hundreds and hundreds of lawsuits of every kind. All you need is one federal judge - and there are plenty - that are willing to do these nationwide injunctions and basically try to run the country from the bench. So we've got to be so careful.

But all of those things are - that you just discussed, without getting into great detail because I can't yet, are in the process. We are constantly reviewing for groups to designate for what they are: supporters of terrorists, maybe terrorists themselves, whatever it may be. We haven't done this in a long time, so it's - we've got a lot of catch-up to do. And you've mentioned a couple names, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, that are of grave concern.

QUESTION: Secretary of State, my old friend Marco Rubio. I want to go back to international stuff in a moment, but I want to stay here right now. So President Trump yesterday federalized the D.C. police, Marco. He deployed the National Guard. I think it's great. I think it's great, but of course Democrats are claiming it's racially profiling black communities. Bowser in D.C. - she's another lunatic, by the way - she's yelling and screaming about Trump, but the truth is look at the numbers. Marco, just look at the numbers, man. They're bad, and that poor kid got beaten up a couple of weeks ago, so I applaud what President Trump is doing. It's not racially motivated. It's safety-related, no?

SECRETARY RUBIO: It - there's two things going on. I mean, the first is that the numbers don't lie. I mean, people who live here, people who have to be here all the time, the perception, the feeling every single day is real. You go to any - you go to a CVS, you go to - I don't - is Walgreens still in business? But I guess CVS or one of these places, you walk in, okay? Everything - everything in Washington - is now behind lock and key.

QUESTION: Same here, yup.

SECRETARY RUBIO: You go into these places and everything's locked up. So the carjackings - I mean, there are neighborhoods in the past where some of these ride share services refused to go in because of the carjacking. It's a problem. It's big.

But here's the additional problem, and the President made this point yesterday: Washington, D.C. is the front porch of our country. Like, when we bring leaders here from all over the world - from all over the world they come to Washington to meet with us and so forth - this is what they see. And what they see is a place that is increasingly violent. What they see when they turn on the news is news reports that someone got assaulted, someone got murdered, someone got this. This is our nation's capital. We have to have pride in it.

And so I applaud the surge of law enforcement. These are - in many cases what these are going to be, you'll see, are habitual offenders, right? Repeat offenders. I had a conversation with an officer here like two years ago when I was still in the Senate, and he said, "Look, we don't even bother to arrest these people, because you arrest them and an hour later they're back in the street."

QUESTION: Yeah.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Because they won't prosecute or they won't need to post bail, and they're - this guy said he had - he had arrested the same guy twice in the same day for two separate crimes at one point because they're - it's a revolving - you got to deal with this thing once and for all, stamp it out.

Now, there are probably a lot of other cities where this needs to happen, but I think Washington, D.C. being the place we live and work, and it's like the front door to the country for all these visitors - we've got to have some pride in that.

QUESTION: My city, Marco, is just like that. Everything's locked up, bail reform, all these laws that quite frankly the guy running for mayor, Andrew Cuomo, was governor, put into place, has really hurt this city and this state. So everything you're saying, I got you, just in bigger numbers right here in New York City.

Now, let me give you some credit. I know you're a humble guy, Marco. I've known you for 15 years. But what a job, ending four conflicts already - Cambodia-Thailand, India-Pakistan, Armenia, obviously, and DRC and Rwanda. Just an incredible job. But there are a few more I know you want to end. One of them is the meeting that's about to take place on Friday. That's Trump and Putin - this Russia-Ukraine situation. Putin calls him and Trump goes, "Vladimir, don't do this," and Vladimir goes, "Okay," and then he hangs up the phone and then he bombs Ukraine. I mean, it's insane 

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.

QUESTION:  how Putin has just completely disregarded what anybody else wants. What does your gut tell you about Friday's meeting?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I think it's a feel-out meeting to be honest. I think - here's the way I would describe it. The President talked to Putin on the phone three times and - or four times. Okay. And nothing has come of it and - or at least we haven't gotten to where we want to be. And so the President feels like, look, I've got to look at this guy across the table. I need to see him face to face. I need to hear him one on one. I need to make an assessment by looking at him.

And people have to understand - for President Trump, a meeting is not a concession. If you watch some of the news - I don't watch a lot of it anymore - but you watch it, and these people are going nuts. Oh, this is - what a win for a Putin; he gets a meeting. He doesn't view it that way. A meeting is what you do to kind of figure out and make your decision. I want to have all the facts. I want to look this guy in the eye. And that's what the President wants to do. So honestly, I think we're going to know very early in that meeting whether this thing has any chance of success or not.

And the President is an extraordinary dealmaker. Look, I didn't know him before he ran for President. I mean, I knew he was, obviously, but I've gotten to work very closely with him here over the last six months and even my first - his first four years in office when I was in the Senate. He's an amazing negotiator. I'm not just saying this because - I mean, he really, truly is. He has a tremendous instinct for deciphering human nature, so understanding how to navigate these things. And I do think - I've seen it be very successful in these trade deals when he comes in and closes them, and they're always in person. It's hard to do that on the phone. So I think that's what Friday is going to be about, and we'll have a better sense of it. It's not going to be easy. This war means a lot to Putin. I mean, the last month, the Russians lost - I think in July they lost 60,000 Russians - not lost like missing in action - like dead.

QUESTION: Yeah. Dead.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Sixty thousand - 60,000 in one month. If you think about - I think in Iraq it was a fraction of that, that we lost, and that was terrible. Imagine 60,000 in a month. So it just tells you what these guys are willing to give because of how important this war - and of course, the war is very important to Ukraine because they're fighting for their country, they're fighting for their future. They don't want to be a part of Russia. So it's a tough one. But you cited the other ones, and the credit goes to President Trump. I mean, he's made it a priority - he says I want to do peace deals. I want to be the President of peace. And so any time we see a conflict where we think we can make a difference, we get involved, and we've had good success in that regard. India-Pakistan, Thailand-Cambodia, the peace deal with Azerbaijan and Armenia just a few days ago.

QUESTION: Yeah.

SECRETARY RUBIO: So we're working through those and we're looking for more that we can work on.

QUESTION: That Azerbaijan conflict - 30 years, 7 million dead. That was an amazing job. Two more Marco; I'll let you run. And he loves you, President Trump. You guys had a pretty contentious battle back in 2016 and all the nicknames and all that stuff, but he did say, as you heard on Newsmax, I think last week, Marco was "born for this job." I mean, he really does love you. You guys work great together. But with all the talk about Russia, Russia-Ukraine, that meeting coming up on Friday, Marco; on Iran, of course, with the amazing job - I saw you on television moments after that successful bombing a couple of weeks ago. Everybody I speak to in and around D.C. says to me: don't take your eye off the ball. The most dangerous country in the world today is still China. It's still China. Is that 100 percent accurate?

SECRETARY RUBIO: I think it's the biggest challenge we face. Because, like, the 21st century is going to be defined by the relationship between the U.S. and China. There's no doubt about it. They are our competitor and our adversary in multiple fields - whether its technology, commerce, trade, military, intelligence, you name it - geopolitics. I mean, they basically want to gain at our expense. That's a fact. So I think we've entered a period with them where I think both sides realize - I think both sides would also benefit from a period of strategic stability. In essence, we have pretty high tariffs on them right now. I mean, we're collecting a lot of money in tariffs right now from China. They're being - tariffs at 54 percent.

But I think ultimately, we've come to the realization - and should have a long time ago - that part of our problem with China is we let them take businesses that once belonged to us. And so the reason why we buy so much from China is because we once used to do it, we let them take it, we gave it to them, and now we - we've got to reverse that. If we want to depend less on China for some of the things we rely on in everyday life, we've got to start making more of that here in the United States.

And that's what President Trump is focused on is bringing back those factors, bringing back that industrial capability, bringing back all those things we once used to do in this country but now buy from China, because they can hold that over our head. If this continues, they can, in the future, blackmail us. They're already doing it now. They could threaten to cut us off of things we need like medicine, for example, pharmaceuticals if we don't do what they want. That's a very vulnerable position to be in. So apart from everything else, military and the like, that is the one area of vulnerability that I think we're trying to address. I think the tariffs are helping because if it makes it more expensive to make it in China and sell it here, it makes it cheaper - theoretically, anyways - to make it here, to sell it here. And we're starting to see some of that come back, and that's good. And that - again, something that's been a priority for President Trump.

QUESTION: It is horrible that we have to rely on them for computer chips and medicine - 87 percent of the world's antibiotics. I mean, I don't know how we got to that place, Marco, but I'm sure glad you guys are trying to fix it.

Finally, I saved the best for last, the most passionate for me, and that is the Israel-Hamas situation. You've been 

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.

QUESTION: You've been terrific. And Marco, I know how you feel about Bibi and Israel. I don't know how a country that went through what we went through October the 7th all of a sudden became the criminals on October the 8th, but I knew it was going to happen. It happened quicker than I thought, to be honest, Marco, but I knew it was going to happen. But now we still have 20 hostages left there. Bibi wants to take over complete control of Gaza. Very simple question: Do you believe if in fact Netanyahu does that, that sooner than later it will mean the end of this horrible war?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, there's no doubt the war ends the day Hamas stops existing as a military threat. I mean, that's the bottom line people don't understand. The guys who led this thing, that killed and murdered and raped on October 7th - horrifying - I mean, since - forget about October - they don't talk about it anymore. They're talking about, yeah, it's a one-day thing, it happened, it was very bad - it's all been forgotten. It's now all about the humanitarian crisis. And I'm not for a humanitarian crisis. I'm just telling you that that's all people are focused on now, and not October 7th, which is 

QUESTION: Yeah, but if you bring up the humanitarian crisis, Marco, is it not fair to say that while the world is blaming Israel, that is just inaccurate, that Hamas and other forces inside Gaza take all that stuff - it's not Israel or America's fault.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah. No, that's right. And so I think the bigger challenge that people forget is the humanitarian crisis existed even before because of Hamas. In essence, they have held captive the 2 million people that live in Gaza. They - that's their human shield. They hide behind these people and they put them out front on purpose while they hide in tunnels. I think it's also important to remember, if we're going to talk about the humanitarian crisis, we should spend an equal amount of time talking about the fact that, as we speak, there are 20 living human beings in deep suffering underneath tunnels. And there's no cameras there. There's no BBC news crew in the tunnel interviewing these hostages. The only thing we see from them are some propaganda videos that Hamas puts out, which is horrifying, okay? We need to be reminded of that.

We also need to be reminded that none of this would have happened, there would have been no war, there would have been no bombings, there would have been none of this had Hamas not done what it did on October 7th. They're the ones that started it. They're the ones - and a group like that cannot be allowed to continue. It has to be eliminated. It has to be eliminated. Everybody says - we agree - the Arab League came out and said we agree Hamas needs to be disarmed, it can - disband it - they can no longer exist. But you've got to do something about it. They're not going to just do it voluntarily, and to do something about it involves, unfortunately - now, it would be great if Hamas just quits tomorrow and says look, we'll quit, we're out of the terrorism business, we surrender, here's our guns. But that's not going to happen.

QUESTION: Right. No.

SECRETARY RUBIO: And so as long as Hamas exists, there will be no peace in Gaza. That's a fact. You can have a ceasefire for 30, 60, 90 days. You can do whatever you want. You will not have peace in Gaza as long as Hamas exists. And the sooner we grasp that and the sooner people grasp that, the sooner they understand what the objective has to be here.

QUESTION: And to wrap this up in a nice little bow, Marco, what's going on with these European countries? I mean, this guy Macron, he's a disgrace. Let's be honest. France, Canada, the UK - the UK is threatening you and Trump: hey, if there's no peace in September, we're going to do this. Australia, Ireland - what's going on with these European countries?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah, and first of all, it's largely meaningless, right? It's symbolic, and they're doing it primarily for one reason, and that is their internal politics, their domestic politics. In the UK, in France, in many parts of Europe and Ireland, for a long time their domestic politics has turned anti-Israel or whatever it may be, and they're getting a lot of domestic pressure to do something, but it's largely meaningless. The truth of the matter is that the future of that region is not going to be decided by some UN resolution. It's not going to be decided by some press release by a prime minister or a president from some country. It's going to be decided on the ground. It's going to be decided by: when will the day come when Palestinian areas are not governed by terrorist organizations? Because that's truly what this comes down to, and that is the security of Israel.

The reason why there's a war right now in Gaza is because Israel was attacked. And as long as people govern these spaces who are going to attack Israel, you are not going to have peace. So for everyone who wants peace in the Middle East, it begins by eliminating and wiping out or moving away the groups, the organizations that are willing to attack Israel, who make it their purpose the destruction of the Jewish state. That's a fact. Whether people want to accept that or not, the sooner they accept it, the sooner we have a chance at peace there. It's difficult and it ain't easy, but that's a fact. But all these statements are meaningless, like they're not - they're not going to change anything.

QUESTION: Good to hear that. We got to find a way to get Rabbi Kaploun - he loves you; I know you love him - and Mark Walker jobs, because the Senate's going to take about 10 more years, I'm afraid, Marco. I have no idea what these people are doing.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah, it's unfortunate. It takes a long time. But these are good people. We've got to get them in place.

QUESTION: I agree. Hey, it's great to catch up with you. You've always been great to me - 15 years - and again, I'm so happy for your success. And I'm telling you America loves you. Marco Rubio, America loves you, so continue success. Give my best to the boss, and hopefully we'll do this again very, very soon. Thank you so much.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Absolutely. Thank you. Thanks.

QUESTION: Alright, Marco. Take care, pal. There he is, the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.

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Treasury Sanctions Entities Linked to Violence and Illegal Mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

U.S. Department of the Treasury

August 12, 2025

WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed sanctions on entities linked to armed group violence and the sale of critical minerals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Eastern DRC has experienced thousands of civilian deaths and a mass displacement crisis due to ongoing instability, which has been exacerbated recently by the Rwanda-backed March 23 Movement's (M23) territorial control and reprisal attacks from DRC-aligned militias. M23, a U.S.- and United Nations-designated armed group, has rapidly expanded its territorial control in eastern DRC and is responsible for human rights abuses.

Today's sanctions specifically target one of these armed groups involved in illegal mining operations and taxation schemes in Rubaya, an expansive mining area rich in critical minerals used in modern electronics. Additionally, today's action targets companies in the DRC and China that are engaged in trading conflict-linked minerals from the DRC on international markets, often through Rwanda.

"The conflict minerals trade is exacting a deadly toll on Congolese civilians, fueling corruption, and preventing law-abiding businesses from investing in the DRC," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley. "The Treasury Department will not hesitate to take action against groups that deny the United States and our allies access to the critical minerals vital for our national defense."

The United States is focused on securing a resolution to the conflict in eastern DRC, as evidenced by its success in facilitating the DRC-Rwanda peace agreement, signed on June 27, 2025. The United States continues to support the efforts of the DRC and Rwanda to adopt a regional economic integration framework that expands trade and investment, enhances transparency in critical minerals supply chains, and paves the way for responsible and legal investment in the region.

MINERALS SUPPLY CHAINS FUELING CONFLICT

On July 8, 2024, the U.S. Department of State highlighted concerns with the illicit trade and exploitation of certain minerals that contribute to ongoing instability in eastern DRC. The United States remains concerned about the conflict and humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, as well as the role that the illicit trade of minerals continues to play in financing the conflict. In many cases, minerals sourced from eastern DRC are smuggled through Rwanda before being transported to major refining and processing countries, such as China. Minerals sourced from conflict-affected areas directly or indirectly benefit armed groups, who raise funds by selling minerals and imposing illegal "taxation" schemes, often in collusion with corrupt local officials. In addition, the mines controlled by armed groups are linked to a wide range of human rights abuses, such as forced labor, child labor, and sexual and gender-based violence.

PARECO-FF: An ArmeD Group at the Center of the Conflict-Minerals Ecosystem

Coalition des Patriotes Resistants Congolais-Force de Frappe (PARECO-FF) is a successor movement to PARECO, an armed group with a long history of destabilizing activities in eastern DRC. PARECO-FF emerged in 2022 as a response to the resurgence of the Rwanda-backed and OFAC-sanctioned M23 armed group. From 2022 to early 2024, PARECO-FF controlled mining sites in Rubaya, a vast mining area containing critical minerals.

During this period, PARECO-FF generated revenue by overseeing mining operations, collecting illegal fees and taxes from miners, and engaging in minerals smuggling. PARECO-FF also imposed forced labor and executed civilians in mining areas under its control. Since its emergence in 2022, PARECO-FF has advanced its interests by forming opportunistic relationships and competing with other armed groups, including M23, thereby contributing to the armed group politics that drive instability in eastern DRC.

PARECO-FF is being designated pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13413, as amended, for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the DRC.

Mining and Export Companies: Connecting Conflict Minerals to Markets

PARECO-FF's mining operations, illegal taxation schemes, and smuggling activities in Rubaya were aided by the Cooperative des Artisanaux Miniers du Congo (CDMC), a Congolese mining company that operated on the largest mining concession in Rubaya and sold minerals that were sourced and smuggled from PARECO-FF areas of control. CDMC in turn sold minerals to Hong Kong-based export companies East Rise Corporation Limited (East Rise) and Star Dragon Corporation Limited (Star Dragon). The trade of conflict minerals drives insecurity and instability in the DRC by providing a source of funding to armed groups and depriving the DRC government of revenue.

CDMC is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13413, as amended, for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the DRC; for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, support to persons, including armed groups, involved in activities that threaten the peace, security, or stability of the DRC or that undermine democratic processes or institutions in the DRC, through the illicit trade in natural resources of the DRC; and for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, logistical, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, PARECO-FF.

East Rise and Star Dragon are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13413, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, logistical, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, CDMC.

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.

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 entities designated today.

###

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Collaborative action from the international community is needed as Yemen faces worsening food insecurity: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG

Published 12 August 2025

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 12 August 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

First, it is now one month since the latest Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, which resulted in the tragic loss of life of at least four crew members.

The UK reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of ongoing Houthi attacks and calls for the immediate release of those taken hostage.

As we highlighted in yesterday's high-level open debate, maritime security must be safeguarded. I reaffirm the UK's support for Resolution 2722 and the principle of freedom of navigation.

The Yemen Maritime Security Partnership, or YMSP, is an essential mechanism for international cooperation with the aim of protecting Yemen's waters, safeguarding maritime trade, combating illicit activities and rebuilding the capabilities of the Yemen Coastguard.

The UK is proud to co-host the inaugural YMSP High-Level Conference on 16 September in Riyadh, alongside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We call upon our international partners to join and support this initiative.

Second, the UK commends the recent interdiction of 750 tonnes of weapons intended for the Houthis, by forces aligned to the Government of Yemen.

This illicit transfer of weapons directly undermines the stability of Yemen and the wider region, and is in clear breach of the arms embargo.

We call upon all Member States to ensure full compliance with Resolution 2216.

Third, as we've heard today, Yemen faces worsening food insecurity.

18.1 million people, over half the population, are projected to experience increasing food insecurity in the next six months, some areas face catastrophic levels of food insecurity for the first time in almost two years.

We need quick and collaborative action from the international community in order to reverse this trajectory, and to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.

The UK once again reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of aid workers arbitrarily detained by the Houthis.

These detentions are making humanitarian access more difficult and dangerous at a time when the needs of Yemenis are rapidly increasing.

President, the UK remains committed to supporting the efforts of the Special Envoy and his team in charting a path towards long-term stability and security.

It is what the people of Yemen and the wider region need and deserve.

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Sudan: UN 'deeply alarmed' by major attack on besieged El Fasher

12 August 2025 - The UN has expressed deep alarm over a large-scale assault by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia on El Fasher, the government-held capital of Sudan's North Darfur State, and the nearby Abu Shouk displacement camp, which has been under siege since April 2024.

Monday's attack left 40 civilians dead and 19 injured within Abu Shouk, according to humanitarian partners. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the renewed violence forced at least 500 residents of the camp to flee to other parts of North Darfur.

Acting Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, Sheldon Yett, condemned "all deliberate and indiscriminate attacks on civilians" in the strongest terms.

"All parties to the conflict have a clear obligation under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of civilians," UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stressed at Tuesday's daily press briefing in New York.

"Displacement camps and other places of refuge for civilians must not be targeted. And the fact that we have to repeat this almost every day is tragic in itself."

No exit

Amid the current escalation of violence in and around El Fasher - the last Government held bastion in Darfur - there are also reports that exit routes from the city have been blocked and civilians are trapped under siege, cut off from safety and aid.

Mr. Yett emphasised that the immediate provision of safe and unhindered passage for those fleeing El Fasher and other areas of active hostilities is crucial.

He also reiterated the Secretary-General's repeated calls for a humanitarian pause in and around the city to allow for the much-needed delivery of food, water, medicine and other life-saving supplies, underscoring that those trapped are facing acute hunger and starvation.

Deepening catastrophe in Kordofan

To the east in the Kordofan region, violence and displacement are still raging.

In South Kordofan State, IOM estimates 3,000 people fled the town of Kadugli between 6 and 10 August because of deepening insecurity.

Humanitarian access to the town is extremely limited, as the primary supply route is inaccessible due to active hostilities, making road access virtually nonexistent.

This humanitarian crisis is worsening an already dire economic situation and causing further shortages of vital goods.

UN humanitarians reiterate that all combatants have obligations under international humanitarian law to refrain from attacking civilians, take constant care to spare them and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access to everyone in need.



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Yemen: 'Regional turmoil continues to erode prospects for peace,' Security Council hears

12 August 2025 - UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg, briefing the Security Council on Tuesday, voiced concern over the latest clashes between Government forces and Houthi rebel militia.

Yemen continues to be one of the world's most food-insecure countries following over 12 years of war between the Saudi-backed coalition supporting the internationally recognised Government and Ansar Allah - as the rebels are officially known - with 17 million going hungry, according to UN aid coordination office, OCHA.

Despite a fragile but long-lasting ceasefire, regional turmoil continues to erode prospects for peace and stability. Without a political solution, "current cycles of violence - local and regional - along with economic devolution and endemic humanitarian need, will persist," Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of OCHA's Coordination Division, told ambassadors.

However, hopes for a lasting peace deal remain: "Reaching a sustainable solution to the situation in Yemen is not only possible, it is essential," said Special Envoy Grundberg.

Concerning developments

Although frontlines have barely shifted, July saw the Houthi's fortify their positions, including around Hudaydah City, and launch a significant assault on Government forces in Sa'adah Governorate - developments Mr. Grundberg told the Security Council were "concerning."

Since October 2023, the Houthis have been targeting Israel as well as commercial ships in the Red Sea, in solidarity with the Palestinian cause in Gaza.

In the past month, the Houthis have continued missile exchanges with Israel, further destabilising Yemen and commerce in the region.

"For Yemen to have a real chance for peace, it must be protected from being further drawn into the ongoing regional turmoil emanating out of the war in Gaza," Mr. Grundberg said, calling for and end to Houthi strikes against civilian ships in the Red Sea.

In the conflict at home, "the parties need to take actions that build trust and good faith," he said, as the UN aims to establish a path for further talks.

"Unfortunately, we have seen the opposite in the last month with unilateral and escalatory decisions that risk deepening divisions within institutions and state structures," said Mr. Grundberg.

Food insecurity

In some parts of Yemen, hunger and malnutrition are extreme - especially in areas of displacement. A needs-assessment mission in July found children from displaced families dying from starvation in such a camp in the Abs District of Hajjah Governorate.

"These are children who have died not from war wounds, but from hunger - slow, silent, and preventable," Mr. Rajasingham said.

Half of Yemen's under fives are suffering from acute malnutrition, and nearly half overall from stunting, leaving them much more vulnerable to dying from common illnesses.

Where healthcare is desperately inadequate and support services are unavailable to many, "this is a life-or-death gamble for children," he said.

Mr. Rajasingham called for increased funding to scale up emergency food and nutrition support across the country, as humanitarian organizations remain on the ground, despite limited resources and operational challenges.

Path forward

Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Envoy for Yemen continues to work towards de-escalation along the frontlines.

In order to establish a path for talks, "it is essential that measures that build trust and improve the day to day lives of Yemenis continue," Mr. Grundberg said.

"I urge dialogue between the parties, which is the only way to bring about long-term sustainable solutions on all matters," he said.





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The world has the tools to end Haiti's crisis - it's time to use them

12 August 2025 - During her final briefing as resident and humanitarian coordinator for Haiti, Ulrika Richardson struggled to describe the realities of life in Haiti.

"I often feel that I cannot even find words any longer to describe the situation. Is it alarming, is it acute, is it urgent? It is all of that and even more."

The phrase she ultimately settled on was "strikingly horrific."

Haiti is currently facing a protracted and worsening humanitarian crisis - with gang violence expanding beyond the capital of Port-au-Prince, civilians are increasingly bearing the brunt of this terror. Additionally, Haiti is one of five countries worldwide experiencing famine-like conditions.

Woeful crisis response

Amidst this horror, Haiti's humanitarian plan is only nine per cent funded, making it the least funded humanitarian response plan in the world according to Ms. Richardson.

But despite these challenging and protracted circumstances, Ms. Richardson was also keen to emphasise that political will and funding could ensure that the current crisis does not have to be Haiti's future.

"Haiti's destiny does not need to be misery and despair," she said. "As much as Haiti has spiralled down in a negative [way], Haiti can quickly spiral up again."

Beyond the figures

Over 1.3 million people have been displaced in Haiti as a result of violence - the largest number in Haiti's history - and almost half of the country is suffering from emergency food insecurity.

These numbers have become so big that it can be hard to conceive of the actual human impact behind them.

"All of that is just figures. Beyond every figure, there is a mother, a child, a father, a young person," she said.

Sometimes these numbers also obscure certain livelihoods. For example, the number of 1.3 million displaced obscures those left behind, perhaps because they physically could not flee as violence encroached on their neighborhood.

Ms. Richardson said that she has heard many stories like this.

"These could be people in a wheelchair or an elderly relative that they simply have to leave behind. They cannot move with them."

Ask yourself, what more can you do?

Ms. Richardson said that there is much about Haiti's current situation that she finds frustrating - most specifically the fact that the international community has identified the solutions to mitigate, if not completely stop, the crisis.

"We have tools, but the response from the international community is not on par with the gravity on the ground," she said.

For example, the Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) has half of the personnel and very little of the equipment it needs to fulfil its mandate.

Additionally, while sanctions on political leaders with gang ties are slowly taking hold, they are insufficient. Similarly, the international community is not doing enough to stop the flow of guns.

"These tools need to be given the proper support and investment in order to carry out their full mandate. There has to be a way of stopping arms coming into Haiti," Ms. Richardson said.

Calling on States to ask themselves what more they can do to end the humanitarian crisis, Ms. Richardson said that the world must multitask.

'A divided heart'

Ms. Richardson will be taking a new post in Libya as of 1 September , and as she prepares to leave behind her years of work in Haiti, she told journalists that she has a divided heart.

On the one hand, this is a humanitarian crisis of "striking" proportions that the world seems to have forgotten. But. if the international community was able to embrace the solutions before them, the crisis could end.

Haiti can turn the page

"We cannot do what we do if we are not optimistic. Of course, we think that there are solutions. Of course, we think that the future is brighter than the present."

Ms. Richardson said that this optimism comes in part from Haiti's "honourable and brilliant" past and from the resistance she has seen on the ground.

"Every condition is there to turn the page...Haitians are extremely ready for this, for the country to have a more positive echo in the international community."





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Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Yemen

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Occupied Palestinian Territory

Gaza: More hostilities and starvation

OCHA warns that Israeli bombardment is causing further casualties, displacement, and destruction of civilian infrastructure across the Gaza Strip.

Today, the Ministry of Health reported that five people died over the past 24 hours due to malnutrition and starvation, bringing the total number of malnutrition-related deaths to 227 people, including 103 children, since October 2023.

The World Food Programme warned in a social media post earlier today that starvation and malnutrition are at the highest levels ever since the conflict began.

Yesterday, the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) emphasized that almost everyone in Gaza lives with trauma after 676 days of war, adding that people are being starved, children are being killed, and families have lost everything. UNRWA said that political will and leadership can stop an escalation and end the war.

Against this backdrop, humanitarian supplies entering Gaza remain far below the minimum required to meet people's immense needs.

The UN and its humanitarian partners continue to do everything possible to bring assistance into Gaza. However, humanitarian movements face significant delays and other impediments that prevent aid from being delivered at scale.

Yesterday, the UN requested to coordinate 16 missions with the Israeli authorities - including the collection of food, medical supplies and fuel - from the two operational crossings, Kerem Shalom and Zikim. Other missions involved moving goods and personnel within Gaza, from south to north or within the southern part of the Strip.

Four missions were facilitated and three were denied; another four were impeded but eventually were fully accomplished.

Of the remaining missions, two were cancelled by the respective organizations. Two other missions that involved collection of food and health supplies from Kerem Shalom were impeded and unable to be completed, while another was impeded but is still ongoing.

Efforts to coordinate humanitarian movements often drag on for hours due to unpredictable clearances by the Israeli authorities, wasting precious time.

West Bank: Violence displaces Palestinian Bedouin community

OCHA reports that yesterday, another Palestinian Bedouin community in the West Bank was displaced due to violence by Israeli forces and settlers.

Israeli forces raided the community of Ein Ayoub in Ramallah governorate and ordered the immediate eviction of its approximately 100 Palestinian residents.

OCHA reports that the forces surrounded residential structures on 10 August and forced women and children out, telling them to go to a nearby village, without presenting any official eviction order. Before leaving, they told all residents - who have no alternative shelter - to evacuate.

Over the weekend, Israeli settlers from a recently established outpost near the community raided the area, set fire to one of the residential caravans, threatened residents, and ordered them to leave within 24 hours.

Yesterday, all residents of the community were displaced from their homes and had to relocate to nearby villages.

This long-standing community, in existence for more than 40 years, has faced daily incursions by both settlers and Israeli forces, who remain in the area throughout the day and continuously intimidate residents.

Sudan

Dozens of civilians reportedly killed in Abu Shouk camp

OCHA is deeply alarmed by reports of a large-scale attack yesterday on the El Fasher area, the besieged capital of Sudan's North Darfur State, also affecting the adjoining Abu Shouk displacement camp.

The attack has been attributed locally to fighters from the Rapid Support Forces, with local sources reporting that at least 40 civilians have been killed within Abu Shouk, and 19 others injured.

In a statement released today, the Acting Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Sheldon Yett, said he was appalled by reports of the attack. He unequivocally condemned all deliberate and indiscriminate attacks on civilians in Sudan. Yett said parties to conflict have clear obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of civilians. Displacement camps and other places of refuge for civilians must not be targeted.

Amid this escalation of violence in and around El Fasher, there are also reports that exit routes from the city have been blocked, trapping civilians under siege and cutting them off from safety and aid. The situation remains tense and highly fluid, with insecurity displacing at least 500 people from Abu Shouk to other locations in North Darfur, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The Acting Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan said that the immediate provision of safe and unhindered passage for people seeking to flee El Fasher and other areas of active hostilities is critical. He also reiterated the UN Secretary-General's call for a humanitarian pause in and around the city to allow the delivery of food, water, medicine and other life-saving supplies to those trapped there and facing acute hunger and starvation.

Meanwhile, OCHA remains concerned by escalating violence in the Kordofan region. In South Kordofan State, IOM estimates that more than 3,000 people fled Kadugli town between 6 and 10 August due to intensified insecurity. Humanitarian access to the town remains extremely limited, with virtually no road access. The primary supply route from Al Obeid in North Kordofan State is inaccessible due to active hostilities. This has worsened economic conditions and led to shortages of vital goods.

In North Kordofan, some 400 people were displaced from Markz Alziadiya village in Gharb Bara locality on 8 August, following escalating conflict. The violence has resulted in widespread civilian casualties, mass displacement, and restricted humanitarian access to large parts of the region.

OCHA once again reminds all those engaged in the conflict of their obligations under international humanitarian law: They must not direct attacks against civilians or civilian objects and must take constant care to spare them in all circumstances. They must also facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access to everyone in need of assistance.

Yemen

Urgent action needed to prevent starvation

OCHA told the Security Council today that Yemen is one of the most food insecure countries in the world, warning that more than 18 million people could go hungry by February next year.

"Starvation is preventable," said Ramesh Rajasingham, the Director of OCHA's Coordination Division. "And humanitarian organizations remain on the ground despite limited resources and operational challenges, with the singular goal of reaching those most at risk before it is too late."

Rajasingham told the Council that humanitarian partners have prioritized the food response for 8.8 million of the most at-risk people - all in emergency or catastrophic situations - but stressed that such efforts require both political and financial support. The Yemen Humanitarian Fund will be releasing $20 million to address the negative impacts of food insecurity.

He called for increased funding* now to scale up urgent emergency food and nutrition support, as well as direct financial support to the Yemen Humanitarian Fund. "Given the right tools, local partners can make a huge difference," Mr. Rajasingham said.

*Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Yemen with urgent support.

Posted on 12 August 2025

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OCHA urges Security Council to prevent starvation in Yemen

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Briefing to the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Yemen by Ramesh Rajasingham, OCHA Director of Coordination, on behalf of Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator

New York, 12 August 2025

As delivered

Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Special Envoy Grundberg for his briefing and update, and this Council for its sustained interest in Yemen.

At the outset, let me reiterate that a political solution remains the only sustainable, concrete path towards a more secure and prosperous future for all people in Yemen. Without it, current cycles of violence - local and regional - along with economic devolution and endemic humanitarian need, will persist.

The crisis in Yemen is a political crisis with a staggering impact on millions of people and their communities - people who do not choose who controls the areas where they live. Humanitarian assistance can work to keep people alive, but only a political solution can make them safe.

Mr. President,

Last month, OCHA provided this Council with an update on the deteriorating state of food security in Yemen. The numbers bear repeating: More than 17 million people are going hungry. This figure may crest 18 million by February next year. Women and children bear the brunt of this disaster.

Yemen is now one of the most food insecure countries in the world. As the economy continues to collapse and pressures on the food pipelines mount, many households with access to food can no longer afford it. Livelihoods across the public sector and agriculture and fisheries industries, among others, have been disrupted by ongoing conflict.

Mr. President,

It is all too easy to reduce Yemen's crisis to numbers. But let us consider what "food insecurity" means today for ordinary Yemenis.

Half of the nation's children under the age of 5 suffer from acute malnutrition, and nearly half suffer from stunting. This means developmental delays and infections, and a risk of death from common illnesses nine to 12 times higher than average. In a context where healthcare is desperately inadequate, and where support services are unavailable to many, this is a life-or-death gamble for children.

For nine-month-old Ahmed in Abs district in Hajjah governorate, lack of food and nutrients left him less than two thirds of a healthy weight, so frail that he couldn't sit up and suffering from severe diarrhea and a high fever. His mother, Hafsa, was doing her best under appallingly difficult circumstances, but Ahmed still required emergency treatment for severe acute malnutrition, complicated by infection. And all this at nine months of age. This is not an isolated story. It is the daily reality for thousands of families and their children. They deserve better.

In some locations, hunger and malnutrition are extreme. In camps for internally displaced persons in Abs District of Hajjah governorate, for example, a needs assessment mission in July found children from displaced families dying of starvation. These are children who have died not from war wounds, but from hunger - slow, silent and preventable. This is the human face of food insecurity.

Hunger forces people to have to make terrible decisions - "negative coping strategies," as we frequently refer to them. But what does this mean in real human terms?

In rural areas of the governorates of Al Mahwit, Al Hudaydah and Sana'a, it means families are having to sell off everything that would sustain their livelihoods in the long term - livestock, tools, their agricultural land - just to afford food for tomorrow. It means that children are forced to work instead of going to school. And it means that women and adolescent girls face heightened risks of domestic violence, exploitation or child marriage. In these three governorates alone, more than 30,000 women and girls have sought support services for gender-based violence just in the last six months. Nearly one third of women now aged 20 to 24 were married before they were 18. Nearly one in 10 were married before they turned 15. Among girls in displaced communities, those figures are even higher. These families and these girls also deserve better.

Mr. President,

Starvation is preventable. And humanitarian organizations remain on the ground despite limited resources and operational challenges, with the singular goal of reaching those most at risk before it is too late. After receiving alarming information of the acute food insecurity and malnutrition situation in IDP camps in Abs district last month, for example, the humanitarian system - including UN, INGOs, local NGOs and the Red Cross and Red Crecent Movement - quickly mobilized to provide life-saving interventions.

Humanitarian partners have prioritized the food response to 8.8 million of the most at-risk people - all in emergency or catastrophic situations. It will come as no surprise that such efforts require support - both political and financial.

Mr. President,

In addition to the work of our international partners to support those in need, we are ensuring that local actors are empowered and resourced to respond in the most efficient and effective ways.

The Yemen Humanitarian Fund will be releasing $20 million to address the negative impacts of food insecurity. This allocation will be guided by front-line responders and local communities, those who know where the needs are greatest, and how to best respond.

This funding will be focused on reaching those suffering the most. It can help prevent a parent feeling they have no option but to sell a daughter into early marriage. It can help protect a displaced family from relinquishing the last of their assets. And it can help ensure that the most vulnerable, including displaced people, refugees and migrants, have access to urgent nutrition, healthcare and clean water.

This year, two thirds of allocations from the Yemen Humanitarian Fund have gone directly to local partners. We hope to make continued use of this resource as a nimble, flexible and fast vehicle to address critical life-saving needs.

Mr. President,

Alongside support for the Special Envoy's efforts towards a political solution and the release of detainees, I focus my calls to action for this month on two things:

One, increased funding now to scale up urgent emergency food and nutrition support.

And two, direct financial support for the Yemen Humanitarian Fund. Given the right tools, local partners can make a huge difference.

Thank you.

Posted on 12 August 2025

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Gaza: Site Management Cluster Monthly Situation Report (July 2025)

UNRWA

12 Aug 2025

Situation Update

The ongoing and repeated displacement orders are forcing families to relocate multiple times, worsening conditions in already overstretched sites. In Gaza City, the Site management Cluster partners have observed an increased number of displaced families arriving in the multiple Gaza City displacement sites. The increase has stretched overcrowding in displacement sites to a critical level. Many sites are unable to accommodate additional families. Site Management partners conducted joint assessments at Shams, Al-Abrar, and Al-Rahma camps, west of Gaza City, to identify emerging needs following new displacements from eastern Gaza and Jabalia.

The partners report that humanitarian conditions are deteriorating rapidly, marked by widespread hunger, limited access to clean water, and inadequate shelter.

Many families are living in worn-out tents or makeshift structures made from plastic sheets and blankets, offering little protection. Site Management Cluster continues to advocate for urgent need for tarpaulins, tents, mobile toilets.

Additionally, recent military shelling at the Al-Fajr site in Deir al-Balah resulted in casualties and injuries, highlighting the urgent need for protection and emergency response. Food assistance is also urgently required in all the population living in sites, where children make up a significant portion of the population.

Many tents are deteriorating and unsuitable for winter as most of the shelters have been in use for six months to a year and are visibly worn due to prolonged sun exposure and frequent displacement. Some shelters are erected on rubble or partially burned structures, posing safety risks.

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Situation in Yemen 'Deeply Fragile' amid Ongoing Regional Turmoil, Special Envoy Warns, Urging Security Council to Support De-Escalation Efforts towards National Ceasefire

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9978th Meeting (AM)

SC/16143

12 August 2025

The United Nations mediator for Yemen urged the Security Council today to support efforts to de-escalate fighting towards a nationwide ceasefire, advance political talks and economic stabilization, and work with regional and international partners to prevent the country from being drawn deeper into the Middle East conflict.

"The regional turmoil continues to erode prospects for peace and stability in Yemen, where the situation remains deeply fragile," said Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, stressing the urgent need for proactive and pragmatic measures that can pave the way for peace in the country.

Yemen remains gripped by a protracted conflict that erupted in 2014 when Ansar Allah  the Houthis  forces seized the capital, Sana'a, prompting a military intervention in 2015 by an external coalition in support of the internationally recognized Government. Clashes between Government-aligned forces and the Houthis have continued despite intermittent ceasefires, economic collapse, humanitarian crises, and recent cross-border and maritime attacks linked to the wider regional tensions following the escalation of hostilities in Gaza have compounded the conflict.

Envisioning a country that is at peace with itself and the region, Mr. Grundberg reiterated the three priorities he outlined in his July briefing to lay the groundwork for lasting solutions in Yemen.

He first called for supporting de-escalation on the frontlines and working with parties toward an active ceasefire. On 25 July, a major assault in Sa'adah Governorate caused heavy casualties, while Ansar Allah fortified positions around Hudaydah City. He noted recent meetings under the UN-facilitated Military Coordination Committee as crucial for de-escalation and maritime security planning.

His second priority is to establish a path for talks in line with the December 2023 Roadmap  UN-facilitated framework agreed upon by key Yemeni parties  including reopening key roads and facilitating trade. Welcoming recent currency stabilization measures by the Central Bank of Yemen, he warned against unilateral actions, citing "the issuance of new 50 Riyal coins and 200 Riyal notes by Ansar Allah", which "are steps in the wrong direction".

The third priority is to work with regional and international partners for stability, including Red Sea security and compliance with the UN arms embargo. "For Yemen to have a real chance for peace, it must be protected from being further drawn into the ongoing regional turmoil emanating out of the war in Gaza," he said, urging an end to Red Sea ship attacks, missile strikes, and port damage that is slowing vital food imports.

In particular, he cautioned against the announcement of Ansar Allah on 27 July expanding the scope of vessels that it would target. "A de-escalation in violence and a renewed focus on diplomacy are urgently needed to protect both the people of Yemen and provide broader regional stability," he said.

Yemen among World's Most Food-Insecure Countries

"Yemen is now one of the most food insecure countries in the world," reported Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of the Coordination Division and Head and Representative of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Geneva. More than 17 million people are going hungry  which could rise to over 18 million by February 2026  with women and children bearing the brunt. While it is "all too easy to reduce Yemen's crisis to numbers", food insecurity means "developmental delays and infections, and a risk of death from common illnesses 9 to 12 times higher than the average," he said, adding that this is a "life-or-death gamble for children" in a context where healthcare is "desperately inadequate" and support services are unavailable to many. "In some locations, hunger and malnutrition are extreme," he stressed  for example, a needs assessment in July found children dying of starvation in camps for internally displaced persons in Hajjah Governorate. He underscored: "This is the human face of food insecurity."

He said that the humanitarian system has prioritized the food response to 8.8 million of the most at-risk people, and the Yemen Humanitarian Fund will be releasing $20 million to address the negative impacts of food insecurity. "It can help prevent a parent feeling that they have no option but to sell a daughter into early marriage, it can help protect a displaced family from relinquishing the last of their assets and it can help ensure that the most vulnerable  including displaced people, refugees and migrants  have access to urgent nutrition, healthcare and clean water," he emphasized.

Urging financial support for these efforts, he added: "Humanitarian assistance can work to keep people alive, but only a political solution can make them safe."

Yemen's Delegate Outlines Government Efforts

"Yemen today is at the threshold of a difficult era after 11 years of a war waged by the terrorist Houthi militia against the State and its constitutional bodies," declared that country's representative. While the Government works towards peace, the Houthis continue to obstruct these efforts  "they aim to drown Yemen in an unprecedented economic and humanitarian crisis", he said. Recalling his July briefing to the Council on the "flagrant interference by the Iranian regime in Yemeni affairs", he pointed to the recent seizure of materiel shipments intended for Houthi militias. "This confirms that the financing and the arming of these militias continues," he stated.

He therefore called on the international community to guarantee the implementation of relevant Council texts  namely resolutions 2140 (2014) and 2216 (2015)  and to deter Iran's "blatant interference". For its part, the Government is conducting financial, economic, administrative and institutional reforms despite the Houthis' "use of the economy as a tool of war". These include measures to stabilize the national currency, improve local revenue and protect the most vulnerable. Noting the "positive changes" in the exchange rate, he said that "this is the direct result of the integrated financial and fiscal policies adopted by the Government". He therefore called for urgent support "so that we can lock down these gains and guarantee the continued recovery of our economy".

Council members, while expressing divergent views, pressed for de-escalation towards a political settlement, with many voicing grave concern about the vicious cycle of Houthis' attacks and retaliatory responses to them.

"We stand with Israel and its right to self-defense against the Houthis," said the representative of the United States, commending the recent seizure by Yemen's Government-allied forces of at least 750 tons of Iranian weapons bound for the Houthis. She urged financial support for the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism for Yemen (UNVIM). "The fact that the Houthis asked the UN Secretary-General to abolish UNVIM points to its effectiveness in preventing illicit shipments of weapons to the Houthis," she said. Her counterpart from France also condemned Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and those targeting Israel, urging the Council to do the same "without ambiguity".

Houthis' Support of Palestinian Cause Resonates with Many

However, the Russian Federation's representative linked Israel's continued military operations in Gaza and its de facto humanitarian blockade of the enclave to the Israeli-Houthi conflict. "The position of Ansar Allah to protect and support the Palestinian cause has found sympathy among many of those who care about the suffering of inhabitants of Gaza," he said, underscoring that "without a ceasefire in Gaza, it is futile to hope for resolving the situation" in Yemen. "This is the prism" that should be used to view the raging confrontation, he said. In that regard, China's delegate called on the international community to "take all actions necessary" to immediately end the fighting in Gaza.

Calls for Release of Detained Crew Members

Greece's representative recalled that the Houthis attacked and sunk two Greek-owned vessels in early July, demanding the immediate release of detained crew from the MV Eternity C. Further, he underlined the importance of freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab-el-Mandeb strait. He also emphasized the continued importance of Operation Aspides  a European Union naval mission  "of which Greece is a principal member and contributor, and whose defensive mandate is pivotal for safeguarding international shipping in the region".

"Strategic maritime routes must remain spaces of safe, free and open navigation," said Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Panama  Council President for August  who spoke in his national capacity to urge the organ to "maintain a clear and firm stance". Such routes must not become instruments of pressure, coercion or confrontation, as their stability is an essential pillar for international peace and security and the functioning of supply chains. Houthi attacks against commercial and merchant vessels in the Red Sea must "cease immediately", he appealed.

On that, the United Kingdom's delegate spotlighted the Yemen Maritime Security Partnership as "an essential mechanism for international cooperation" in protecting the country's waters, safeguarding maritime trade, combating illicit activities, and rebuilding the capabilities of the Yemen Coastguard. He announced that his country and Saudi Arabia will co-host the mechanism's inaugural conference on 16 September in Riyadh.

Invest in Agriculture

Slovenia's representative, speaking also for Guyana in their capacity as informal co-focal points on conflict and hunger, highlighted thatYemen's fragile, import-dependent food system sources up to 90 per cent of its supply from abroad and described how conflict disrupts such supplies. Stressing that "new approaches are essential", she said that investing in agriculture  "a sector that nearly 70 per cent of Yemenis rely on"  is a "lifesaving" measure that tackles food insecurity, builds resilience and supports long-term stability.

Pledges of Humanitarian Aid

"We are alarmed by the unprecedented food insecurity and worsening humanitarian situation for internally displaced persons," said the speaker for the Republic of Korea, pledging to provide 23,000 metric tons of rice in 2025 through World Food Programme (WFP) to help alleviate nutritional deficiencies among refugees and internally displaced communities. Agreeing, Denmark's delegate said that "more must be done to meet the rising humanitarian needs". His country has donated more than $215 million in humanitarian response since the beginning of the conflict, he added.

However, "such assistance alone cannot resolve the country's multifaceted crisis", said the representative of Guyana, also speaking for Algeria, Sierra Leone and Somalia. She therefore emphasized the importance of implementing sustainable economic recovery mechanisms to promote long-term stability in Yemen, also underscoring that "any further delay in resuming comprehensive political dialogue will only deepen divisions and prolong the suffering of the Yemeni people".

Pakistan's delegate added that the implementation of the December 2023 road map has been "painfully slow", highlighting the urgency of breaking the current stalemate through renewed political will and concrete steps towards an inclusive peace process and political settlement.

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China emphasizes importance of safeguarding Red Sea shipping lanes, promoting political resolution to Yemen issue

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Aug 13, 2025 08:29 AM

A Chinese envoy emphasized the need to safeguard the Red Sea shipping lanes and promote a political resolution to the Yemen issue at the UN on Tuesday, calling for a joint effort from the international community to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East.

Speaking at the UN Security Council's open meeting on the Yemen issue, China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Geng Shuang, stated that Yemen currently faces a persistent political deadlock, a fragile security situation, and a severe humanitarian crisis, according to Xinhua News Agency.

Mutual attacks between Israel and Yemen's Houthi forces have kept tensions high in the Red Sea. The international community should work together to achieve a political resolution to the Yemen issue and restore peace and stability in the Red Sea as soon as possible, Geng said.

Geng stressed that, first, the safety of Red Sea shipping lanes must be maintained. He mentioned that in July, attacks by Yemen's Houthi group on two cargo ships resulted in casualties, raising deep concerns in China. He called on the Houthis to respect the navigation rights of commercial vessels from all countries in the Red Sea under international law and to cease attacks on commercial ships.

The safety of Red Sea shipping lanes should be upheld, and the protection of civilians, including crew members, must be ensured. At the same time, Yemen's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity should also be respected, according to the envoy.

He pointed out that efforts must be made to actively advance the peace process, emphasizing that the Yemen issue ultimately requires a political solution, with dialogue and negotiation as the fundamental paths forward.

China urges all parties involved in the Yemen conflict to resume contact, meet each other halfway, demonstrate maximum sincerity in resolving differences, build consensus for reconciliation, and make every effort to restore peace, Geng said.

Geng also emphasized the urgent need to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, as Yemen is experiencing one of the world's most severe food crises, with women, children, and other vulnerable groups in particularly dire situations.

He called on the international community to increase humanitarian aid to Yemen, support its economic development, improve livelihoods, and help the Yemeni people overcome their hardships.

Geng noted that the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea is closely linked to the broader Middle East. The international community should take all necessary actions to end the conflict in Gaza as soon as possible, alleviate the humanitarian disaster, and promote de-escalation across the region.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 12 August 2025 - Day 1266

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that in total, there have been 133 combat encounters since the beginning of this day. Ukrainian defenders continue to decisively interrupt the attempts of the Russian enemy to advance deep into Ukrainian territory, giving him a fiery impression.

Russian zagarbniki launched one missile strike with four rockets and 67 aviation strikes, dropping 130 controlled aviation bombs. In addition, 1,528 kamikaze drones were recruited and 3,637 shells were carried out at the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

Nine clashes took place in the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions. The Russian enemy launched six aviation strikes, dropped fourteen controlled bombs, carried out 178 shelling, including six from jet systems of salvage fire.

In the South Slobozhansky direction from the beginning of the day, Russian forces carried out three offensive actions in the area of the settlement of Kamyanka.

In the Kupyans komu direction, the aggressor attacked near Kindrashivka, Moskovka and Kupyanska - Ukrainian defenders stopped five Russian attempts to advance.

In the Lyman direction, Russian invaders 15 times attacked the positions of Defense Forces in the areas of Grekivka, Mirny, Zarichny, Karpivka, Torsky, Dibrova and in the direction of Shandrigolovy and Serebryanka. Three confrontations have not subsided yet.

In the Sivers komu direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled eight assaults of the Russian occupation troops in the areas of Grigorivka and Viimka.

In the Kramators -komu direction, Russian forces attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Oleksandro-Shultynogo and Stupocok. The defense forces successfully repelled both Russian attacks.

Four times Russians stormed the positions of Ukrainian units in the Toretsky direction in the areas of Nelipivka, Scherbinivka and Yablunivka.

In the Pokrovsky direction from the beginning of this day, Russian forces attacked in the areas of Popovoye Yar, Volodymyrivka, Kolodyaziv, Nikanorivka, New Shahovoye, Novoekonomicnogo, Zvirovoye, Udacnogo, as well as in the direction of Rodinsky and Promena. Ukrainian defenders stopped 33 Russian offensive actions, two more confrontations continue.

Today, according to preliminary data, 167 Russian occupants were defecated in this direction, of which 116 were irrevocable. Ukrainian soldiers destroyed two combat armored vehicles, 85 unmanned aircraft, six cars, two unmanned aircraft antennas and two control points of the Russian enemy's unmanned aircraft.

In the Novopavliv direction, Russian forces 22 times tried to break through the defense of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Dachny, Novoukrainka, Free Field, Oleksandrograd, Tolstoy, Mirnoy, Maliivka, Voskresenki and Andriyivka-Klevtsovoye. Four clashes are currently underway.

In the direction of Gulyaipils komu, Russian forces came in the direction of Poltavka, launched an aviation strike on the area of the settlement of Bilogir.

In the Orihiv direction, Ukrainian soldiers repelled two Russian offensive actions in the Kamiansky area. Populated points Stepnogirsk and Plavni suffered aviation strikes controlled bombs.

In the Pridniprovsk direction, Russian forces six times attacked towards the positions of Ukrainian defenders. At the same time, the Russian opponent caused an air strike on the Odradokamianci.

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Explainer: What to know about Trump's deployment of National Guard in Washington

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 16:46, August 12, 2025

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Monday a public safety emergency in Washington and ordered the deployment of the National Guard in the nation's capital, citing what he called a surge of violent crime and urban decay.

WHAT'S THE EMERGENCY?

The order, invoking Section 740 of the Home Rule Act of 1973, temporarily placed Washington's police department under federal control and resulted in the deployment of 800 National Guard troops.

The White House argued that Washington faces one of the highest violent crime and robbery rates among large U.S. cities, citing a 2024 homicide rate of over 27 per 100,000 residents and vehicle thefts more than three times the national average. Trump pointed to homelessness, graffiti and infrastructure neglect as threats to public safety and federal operations.

The president did not provide a timeline for the control of the police department, but he is limited to 30 days under statute unless he gets approval from Congress. The takeover could also face challenges in court.

"We're going to take our capital back," Trump said at a White House press conference.

He also stressed the need to clear Washington's homeless encampments, but offered no plan for where the thousands of displaced people would go.

CRIME SURGE OR DECLINE?

Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser called the president's decision to deploy the National Guard in the capital "unsettling and unprecedented" as she sought to reassert the city government's control over its police department.

In response to Trump's claim that the city was "overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals," Bowser defended the police department's efforts, citing a 30-year low in violent crime incidents that dropped from a 2023 spike.

Homicides, assaults with dangerous weapons, and robberies in the capital are down this year when compared with this time in 2024, with violent crime declining 26 percent, according to data released by Washington's police department.

D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb called the administration's actions "unprecedented, unnecessary, and unlawful."

"We are considering all of our options and will do what is necessary to protect the rights and safety of District residents," Schwalb said in a post on X.

Democrats have been quick to condemn Trump's action as a power grab, a distraction and a violation of the capital's sovereignty. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin slammed the president's move as "political theater," saying he's ignoring the progress the city has made in reducing crime.

OVERUSE MILITARY FORCE?

Although the 1973 Act granted D.C. more authority over its own affairs, the president retains the power to deploy the National Guard in the city.

Trump's administration exercised that authority during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, when Guard members were later criticized for flying a helicopter dangerously low over demonstrators. The Guard was also mobilized on Jan. 6, 2021, as Trump's supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol.

The move in Washington comes as the legal battle continues over Trump's deployment of the Guard in Los Angeles this summer, when Immigration and Customs Enforcement-led mass immigration raids sparked unrest and protests.

The act also allows Trump to take over Washington's police department for up to 30 days if he notifies certain heads of congressional committees. Bowser said the arrangement compels her to follow federal directives, but she stressed that granting Washington statehood -- a cause city leaders have pursued for decades -- would possibly block such federal takeovers in the future.

Deployment of Guard troops to Washington was the latest in a series of moves by Trump to push the boundaries of how U.S. troops can be deployed in American territory, triggering a fierce legal debate over the U.S. military's expanding footprint at home, The Wall Street Journal commented.

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D.C. mayor calls federal takeover of police department "unsettling"

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 13:12, August 12, 2025

WASHINGTON, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Muriel Bowser, mayor of Washington, D.C., said Monday that the federal government's takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department was "unsettling" and "unprecedented," calling it an "intrusion on our autonomy."

At a press conference, Bowser said she believes that U.S. President Donald Trump's view of D.C. stems from his first-term, COVID-era experience, when crime spiked.

"But we worked quickly to put laws in place and tactics that got violent offenders off our streets and gave our police officers more tools, which is why we have seen a huge decrease in crime," said Bowser.

"Crime isn't just down from 2023. It's also down from 2019 before the pandemic, and we're at a 30-year violent crime low," she said.

Earlier Monday, Trump held a White House press conference, announcing that he had formally invoked the Home Rule Act to place the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control. He also announced that he was deploying the National Guard to help restore law and order and public safety in the nation's capital.

Trump also signed an executive order declaring a "crime emergency" in Washington, D.C., stating that crime in the district was "out of control" and determining that "special conditions of an emergency nature" exist that require the use of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia "for Federal purposes."

Bowser noted that Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith has established a high-level liaison mechanism with the federal government, designated a point of contact, and made initial contacts.

"The executive order is also clear that the President has dedicated his authority to make requests of us to Attorney General Pam Bondi. I have reached out to Attorney General Bondi, and hope to schedule a meeting soon," said Bowser.

Trump signed a presidential memorandum directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to mobilize the District of Columbia National Guard and order members to active service, "in such numbers as he deems necessary, to address the epidemic of crime in our Nation's capital."

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Up to $5 Million Reward Offer for Information Leading to the Arrest and/or Conviction of Haitian Gang Leader of Foreign Terrorist Organization Viv Ansanm

US Department of State

Press Statement

Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson

August 12, 2025

Today, the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is announcing a reward offer under the Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP) of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction, in any country, of Haitian gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, a.k.a. "Barbecue."

Cherizier is the leader of Viv Ansanm, which was designated by the Secretary of State on May 2, 2025, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), and is a central figure responsible for gang violence in Haiti. Notorious for his total disregard of human dignity, Cherizier is directly involved in the mass murder and rape of Haitian civilians.

In December 2020, Cherizier and two Haitian public officials were designated for sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (Global Magnitsky) for their roles in the La Saline massacre and severe human rights abuses in Haiti.

Today's reward offer complements the Department of Justice's unsealing of the indictment of Cherizier in the District of Columbia, charging him with one count of conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Cherizier avoided sanctions placed on him in 2020 under the Global Magnitsky Act. His co-defendant, Brazile Richardson, also made his initial court appearance today in Washington, D.C.

Today's reward offer is authorized by the Secretary under the TOCRP, which supports law enforcement efforts to disrupt transnational crime globally and bring fugitives to justice. If you have information, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at https://tips.fbi.gov/home . Information may also be provided to HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or online at www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form . If you are located outside of the United States, you may also visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are in the United States, you can also contact the local FBI office in your city.

ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL. Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards.

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Australia and PNG continue to strengthen defence cooperation

The Hon Richard Marles MP

Deputy Prime Minister

Minister for Defence

12 August 2025

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has concluded his visit to Papua New Guinea with the official opening His Majesty's Papua New Guinea Naval Base (HMPNGS) Tarangau - reflecting the growing defence cooperation and interoperability between our two countries.

HMPNGS Tarangau, also known as the Lombrum Naval Base, is the largest security infrastructure project delivered by Australia in the Pacific and will enable the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) to grow and develop its sovereign capabilities, and respond to PNG's security priorities.

Delivered under the Lombrum Joint Initiative, the new naval base includes:

Working and living accommodation for the PNGDF;

A medical centre that will serve the base and local community;

Water and sewerage services to supply the base;

Upgraded maritime infrastructure, including barge landing ramps;

Office infrastructure, including a guard house and headquarters building; and

Combined mess facilities, able to accommodate around 200 sailors and officers.

The completion of HMPNGS Tarangau will also provide further opportunities for Australia and PNG to increase interoperability and cooperation through joint training, exercises and ship visits.

During his visit to PNG, the Deputy Prime Minister also handed over 12 up-armoured LandCruisers to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.

These lightweight vehicles will allow PNGDF personnel to move securely and respond with agility across diverse terrain, further enhancing PNG's ability to respond to domestic security challenges.

Our defence cooperation with PNG is stronger than ever - underpinned by our shared history and future and our strategic trust as neighbours, partners and friends.

This visit comes just one week after the conclusion of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, which marked the first time a component of the Exercise was held outside Australia, in Papua New Guinea.

Australia and PNG are further strengthening ties through the ongoing negotiation of a defence treaty, announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Papua New Guinea Minister for Defense, Dr Billy Joseph, in February 2025.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

"Australia is committed to partnering with Papua New Guinea to build their sovereign capabilities and enable them to respond to their own security needs.

"Our shared geography and history interests make Papua New Guinea and Australia natural partners, and Australia is pleased to see this partnership growing even further in 2025.

"The Australian Defence Force and Papua New Guinea Defence Force continue to work together to enhance the interoperability between our two countries, respond to our shared strategic challenges in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region."

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Doorstop - Melbourne

Transcript

Tuesday 12 August 2025

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

The Hon Clare O'Neil MP

Minister for Housing

Minister for Homelessness

The Hon Kate Thwaites MP

Member for Jagajaga

KATE THWAITES, MEMBER FOR JAGAJAGA: Good morning everyone, and welcome to Rosanna where we are building 45 social and affordable homes. You can see here what a great location this is, just near the train station, shops, near our health precinct in Heidelberg. This is going to be fantastic for women and children leaving family violence, for older women at risk of homelessness. Our government understands that people have better lives when they have a safe and secure roof over their head - and that's what we're delivering here. It's what we're delivering right around the country. We're delivering that because this Prime Minister and this Minister know how important that is. And it's certainly, I didn't see this level of investment in housing in this electorate under the previous government. So it's wonderful to have them both here today to see this. Prime Minister, welcome.

ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Thanks so much Kate, and it's great to be back in Jagajaga and here with the Minister for Housing, Clare O'Neil. This is what good public policy looks like. The Housing Australia Future Fund was a policy that we went to the 2022 election on. It was held up by the noalition of the Liberals and the Greens for far too long. This structure here could have been built and opened by now had that legislation been carried. A $10 billion fund to provide more social and affordable housing right around the country here being delivered by the private sector. Meaning jobs in construction, but importantly as well, the security and stability that comes with a roof over your head is essential for families to get better education for their kids, to get better access to health care, to have a quality of life that the 45 families who will live in these dwellings will have for many years to come. Well located right next to the train station near amenities including retail, health, education facilities as well. This is such a great development here and it's being replicated right around the country through the Housing Australia Future Fund and other policies that we have as part of our $43 billion Homes for Australia Plan. There's nothing more important than housing, and our Minister, Clare O'Neil, is working hard to make sure that the money that we've allocated gets rolled out. In addition to that, we understand that we need to deal with issues of planning and make sure that approvals can happen quicker, that we deal with some of the impediments that have been holding back the delivery of our target, which is 1.2 million homes by the end of the decade. Next week's forum and roundtable in Parliament House in the Cabinet Room, will no doubt raise these issues of making sure that we get that planning done, that we get the jobs created in construction, and most importantly, we get the homes built. Whether it be private homes, whether it be increased rentals or whether it be social housing. My government has a comprehensive housing plan going forward, including of course, the 5 per cent deposits that we committed to during the election campaign that will make it far easier for people to get into home ownership. So whether it's increasing home ownership, increased number of private rentals or increased quality and stock of social housing, my government's comprehensive plan will deal with one of the real challenges which we inherited after a decade of neglect by our predecessors. And I'm really pleased that I'm here with the Minister who's doing such a fantastic job here, Clare O'Neil. We'll ask her to comment and then happy to take some questions.

CLARE O'NEIL, MINISTER FOR HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS: Thank you so much, PM. Well, there's two absolute favourite things I have about my job, the first is meeting tenants who move into social and affordable housing that our government has built. Every single home that we build in social and affordable housing changes the life of an Australian and their family. And the second favourite thing is doing things like today, where we get to inspect the massive building program that our government is engaging with across the country. We are delivering more homes for Australians and building Australia's future. We've got some really significant housing challenges facing our country that really have been building over decades. There are a lot of complexities to housing, but the causes of our housing crisis are pretty simple at the end of the day - for 40 years, we have not been building enough homes, and the main answer to our nation's housing challenges is to build, build, build. Now, our government has amassed a $43 billion agenda to address the housing challenges facing the country. We've taken the Commonwealth from being a negligent bystander on housing, remember that under the former government for most of their period in office, they didn't even have a Housing Minister. And we've gone from that, to being the boldest and most ambitious Australian government on housing since the Second World War. Now, the main focus of that $43 billion is building, building, building. We are building 55,000 social and affordable homes around the country, and we're here on site inspecting progress on 45 of those homes. We're building 100,000 homes with the state governments that will be just reserved for first home buyers, with no competition from investors or others. And of course, we have set that big national aspiration for the country to build 1.2 million homes over a five year period. Now, I want to speak a little bit about generally what's going on in the housing market. We have our Home Building Program, and the evidence of that is right before us here today, but we also want to see the private sector get back up and running properly on building the homes that our country needs. And in doing that, we are making real progress. If we look at the approval numbers from about a year ago in our country to today, we're up 30 per cent. Now, these are really meaningful shifts and we're seeing some really good green shoots, but our government wants to go further and we want to go faster. The Treasurer's Economic Reform Roundtable, which will be held next week, are a really good opportunity for us to do that. It is too hard to build a house in our country today and that is something that our government is working fiercely to change. Now, how are we doing that? Well, we've got three big problems. We've got too much red tape and regulation, we are not seeing enough innovation in housing, and we've got some issues getting the skills that we need to build the housing that Australians most need. We had a good chat with one of the builders here before and he said to me, you know, a decade ago, the hard part about building a house in this country was the actual building. The problem now sits in the approvals and the delays. And that's something that I hope to see some real progress on at the roundtable. I'll leave it there, thanks, PM.

PRIME MINISTER: Thanks very much, Clare.

JOURNALIST: Have Australia and allies guaranteed that Hamas plays no role in a future Palestinian state?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, we've made it very clear that Hamas has no role. And importantly as well, the statement by the Arab countries after the meeting convened by France and Saudi Arabia just a couple of weeks ago, there's a real breakthrough. Countries that said Hamas must disarm. Countries that said that the October 7th atrocities, called it out and condemned it for what it was - an act of terrorism. Countries which declared as well that we needed to move forward in the interests of both states. Israelis and Palestinians have an interest in living in peace and security side by side. We have had 77 years of conflict and over the last couple of years we've seen too much loss of innocent life, whether it be Israeli or Palestinian. We need a common solution to this and the international community is saying enough is enough. We need to move forward and Israelis and Palestinians will benefit from that.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, just over two weeks ago you said that Australia's recognition of the Palestinian state is not imminent. Can you pinpoint on what day that you changed your mind, that you made that decision to recognise and why?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, these things don't happen on a day. These things happen over a period of time based upon the assessments that are made. Penny Wong gave a speech over a year ago where she indicated that the government's position was that the recognition of Palestine didn't need to be the end point, it could be a point on the way to the two state solution. Since then we've seen countries including the United Kingdom, France and Canada make declarations that they would be making a statement at the United Nations in September. We have said as well that we will declare based upon the commitments that have been received by the Palestinian Authority. The other things that have occurred in recent weeks are, as I have just said, the declaration at the meeting convened by France and Saudi Arabia. I spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu last week and indicated to him the direction that Australia was headed. Prime Minister Netanyahu, before yesterday's statement, made comments by the Australian government and before our Cabinet met, made comments based upon the discussion that I'd had with him.

JOURNALIST: But was there any particular assessment that was highlighted more than another? For example, was it more about those other countries changing their position or the Palestinian Authority's promises?

PRIME MINISTER: We make assessments based upon the totality of what is before us. The commitments from the Palestinian Authority have been important. The decorations by other countries means that there is momentum towards a two state solution and towards the international community making that position clear. The other thing that is occurring is of course the decision by the Israeli government to double down on its military solution without a political solution being advanced or forwarded by the Netanyahu government with the decision that they've made to go in and to occupy Gaza City. We have seen too many innocent lives being lost. If we continue to do the same thing, you will get the same outcomes. The international community is saying that we need to stop the cycle of violence, the best way to do that is to work towards what the solution is. What the international community have said the solution is for many decades now, it has been a bipartisan Australian government's position of support for two states in the Middle East. One of those states is Israel, the other state is Palestine. We need to make sure that Hamas is isolated. The comments by Arab League nations have made it clear that that is their position as well.

JOURNALIST: Are you worried about the United States stance on this issue and that it could impact our relationship with the United States?

PRIME MINISTER: President Trump has made it very clear that he wants to see peace in the region. Australia wants to see peace in the region. We make our sovereign decisions as a nation state in Australia's national interest and we are aligning ourselves with like-minded countries.

JOURNALIST: You spoke earlier today about Benjamin Netanyahu's denial in the consequences for innocent people. What else did you have to say to Benjamin Netanyahu when you did speak to him and tell him Australia's position on this?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, it was a conversation which reflected the conversation that I had with him in 2024. And I expressed to him my concern that he was putting the same argument that he did in 2024, that military action against Hamas would produce an outcome. That hasn't produced an outcome. What it's produced is a lot of innocent lives, tens of thousands of innocent lives being lost. I expressed my concern about the blocking of aid that occurred as a conscious decision by the Israeli government earlier this year. And since aid was recommenced, the issues that have created, that we've seen played out on our TV screens every night. People starving, people losing their life queuing for essential food and water. This just cannot continue into the future without an end point. And the international community is coming up with an end point, which is how do we resolve this? How do we get a permanent, secure position? There can't be freedom and the aspirations of Palestinian people for their own state fulfilled, without also providing security for the state of Israel.

JOURNALIST: What faith do you have in the Palestinian Authority's ability to deliver on some of those conditions? For example, demilitarising and also being able to hold elections, given what we can see on the ground is the state of that area?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, the Palestinian Authority, of course, have made those commitments, but importantly as well, Arab nations in the region have made those commitments as well. What we need is a normalisation of relations between Israel and the states which surround it to provide security for the state of Israel. And we need the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for their own state to be fulfilled.

JOURNALIST: Polling shows that the PA is unpopular amongst Palestinians themselves. They're rife with corruption and most experts argue they've rarely resembled a functioning authority. Do you trust that they'll listen to these conditions?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm not sure how you poll in Gaza at the moment. It would be an interesting exercise. But what people in Gaza want clearly is for peace to come out. And when people have clearly uprisen against Hamas, Hamas needs to be isolated, Hamas needs to be disarmed. The state of Palestine needs to be created in a way that provides also security for Israel. And we've seen, we saw on October 7th that Israel, in spite of the fact that it has one of the biggest security regimes of any country in the world, the atrocities that occurred on October 7th were reprehensible, have been condemned consistently by Australia and have been condemned now by all of the nations around there as well in the Middle East. We need to have a breakthrough and my position and the Australian government's position is consistent with the position that governments have held for a long period of time, consistent it must be said, with what the Leader of the Opposition has said in the past of support for statehood when it comes to Palestinians.

JOURNALIST: Just on the demilitarising. There are a lot of arms groups within Palestinian territories, not just Hamas. Doesn't the PA have the right to be able to control its own security and its own state?

PRIME MINISTER: We want a demilitarised state and that's a commitment, one of the commitments that the Palestinian Authority themselves have given. Thanks very much.

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Prime Minister Carney speaks with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer

Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney

August 12, 2025

Ottawa, Ontario

Yesterday, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer.

The prime ministers agreed on the categorical imperatives of ending Russia's war of aggression and establishing a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine.

The two leaders welcomed the leadership of President Trump and the United States in working toward securing peace in Ukraine in the context of upcoming negotiations.

As members of the Coalition of the Willing, the prime ministers reaffirmed Canada and the United Kingdom's commitment to coordinating closely with the U.S., and with President Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine, in pursuit of peace and security in Ukraine and Europe.

Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Starmer agreed to remain in close contact.

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Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on August 8, 2025

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Ministry of National Defense

EditorHuang Panyue

2025-08-12 18:54:28

On the afternoon of August 8, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China's Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answered recent media queries concerning the military.

(The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

Journalist: Recently, heavy rainfall hit eastern, northern and northeastern China, leading to floods and geological disasters. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) and People's Armed Police (PAP) immediately dispatched forces for emergency rescue and disaster relief tasks. Please tell us more about that.

Jiang Bin: We always put the people first and fulfill our mission without fail. The PLA and PAP forces will resolutely act on President Xi's important directives on disaster rescue. As of now, they have carried out disaster relief operations in 13 districts/counties across 8 provinces. Over 19,000 service members and over 32,000 militia personnel have been deployed, and more than 2,000 sets of vehicles and engineering equipment have been mobilized. We have assisted in works including search and rescue, relocation of affected people, transportation of relief supplies, patrol and reinforcement of dams and river banks, and rush-repair of roads. The Chinese military will resolutely fulfill the missions and tasks entrusted by the Party and the people, and make every effort to protect the safety of people's lives and property.

Journalist: Recently, several films about historical events during WWII have been released in China, such as Dead to Rights, which depicts the heroic deeds of Chinese civilians during the Nanjing Massacre, and Dongji Rescue, which portrays Chinese fishermen risking their lives to rescue British POWs under the gunfire of Japanese militarists. What's your comment?

Jiang Bin: During World War II, Japanese militarists launched war of aggression, and committed innumerable crimes, which inflicted immense suffering on the people of China and other countries worldwide. Today, through film and television products, a growing number of people have recognized the inhuman brutality of Japanese militarists and the gallant resistance by the Chinese and people of other countries against Japanese fascists. This has led to a deeper understanding of how hard-won peace truly was. More and more foreign friends are stepping forward to donate to China and disclose to the world the evidence of atrocities committed by Japanese aggressors. In the face of hard evidence, no attempt to distort WWII history and whitewash the war of aggression will succeed.

Lessons written with blood must never be forgotten; historical tragedies must never be repeated. We will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War this year. The Chinese military will carry forward and promote the great spiritual legacy of the war, and defend national sovereignty, security, and development interests with stronger capability and more reliable means.

Journalist: It's reported that some countries kept dispatching aircraft and ships to the vicinity of Chinese and Russian task forces during Exercise Joint Sea 2025. Some analysts claim that this joint exercise was clearly targeted at third parties. May I have your comments?

Jiang Bin: Exercise Joint Sea is an institutionalized cooperation program between the Chinese and Russian navies. Since its inception in 2012, the exercise has been held 10 times and has become a key platform for China-Russia military cooperation. Task groups from the two sides have completed planned subjects, including joint air defense, counter-sea and anti-submarine operations, and have transitioned to a joint maritime patrol. China and Russia adhere to the principles of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party in developing bilateral and military relations, and jointly play an important role in safeguarding international and regional peace and stability. We hope relevant parties will view defense cooperation between China and Russia objectively and rationally, and stop spreading groundless speculation and smears.

Journalist: According to reports, the Pakistani military announced that the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps has commissioned Chinese-made Z-10ME attack helicopters into its fleet, aiming to advance the modernization of its defense equipment. Please comment on that.

Jiang Bin: We are willing to share the achievements of China's equipment development with friendly countries including Pakistan. The defense and security cooperation between China and Pakistan is not directed against any third party and is dedicated to safeguarding international and regional peace and stability.

Journalist: Recently, the promotional video titled Gong Jian (or Forging Ahead) revealed for the first time footage of a successful takeoff simulation by PLANS Fujian, stating that the aircraft carrier has entered the final critical stage before commissioning. Can you confirm this?

Jiang Bin: China advances the development of aircraft carriers according to the needs of national security and equipment build-up. As a critical military asset, PLANS Fujian will play its due role in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Journalist: The Philippine armed forces reportedly said that the Philippine-Indian joint naval exercise conducted near Huangyan Dao was designed to enhance the interoperability of the two militaries and to demonstrate support for the Philippines in its skirmishes with China. What's your comment?

Jiang Bin: We oppose using the South China Sea issue as a pretext to provoke confrontation, and believe that military cooperation between relevant countries should not target any third party or undermine regional peace and stability. The Philippine side, however, actively courts external forces to make bluffs, in an attempt to destabilize the region for its own gain. Such actions completely contradict the shared aspirations of regional countries for peace, development and stability. We require the Philippine side to stop its provocations and propaganda, stop ganging up with others to stir up troubles in the South China Sea, and return to the right track of resolving differences through dialogue and consultation.

Journalist: It is reported that Lai Ching-te recently said that the "national defense budget" of Taiwan for next year will exceed 3% of its GDP. Some analysts believe this increase is a response to concerns from the US side. Please comment on that.

Jiang Bin: As a province of China, how is it possible for Taiwan to have the so-called national defense budget? Lai Ching-te and his like show no regard for the well-being of the people of Taiwan and shamelessly cozy up to the US and sell out Taiwan in pursuit of soliciting external support for "Taiwan independence". Not only do they sugarcoat the tariff exploitation as achievements of negotiations to deceive the public, but they also plan to squander the hard-earned money of the people in Taiwan to pay "protection fees" to the US. Such acts amount to sending a lamb to a tiger's den and will make everything lost and nothing gained.

Journalist: Reports indicate that the chairman of the US Senate Armed Services Committee may soon lead a congressional delegation to Taiwan, which will be the first visit to Taiwan by a senator holding this position since 2016. May I have your comments?

Jiang Bin: There is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. The Chinese side firmly opposes any form of official engagement between the US and the Taiwan region. We require the US side to abide by the one-China principle and stipulations of the three China-US joint communiques, earnestly fulfill its promise of not supporting "Taiwan independence", stop any form of official interaction and military connection with China's Taiwan region, and stop conniving at or supporting separatists for "Taiwan independence". The PLA will stay on high alert at any time and take resolute measures to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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Xi says China, Brazil can set example of unity, self-reliance in Global South

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Xinhuanet

EditorHuang Panyue

2025-08-12 21:09:38

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Tuesday that China is ready to work with Brazil to set an example of unity and self-reliance among major countries in the Global South, and jointly build a more just world and a more sustainable planet.

Xi made the remarks during his phone talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

China-Brazil ties are at their best in history, with the building of a China-Brazil community with a shared future and the alignment of the two countries' development strategies getting off to a good start and making smooth progress, Xi said.

The Chinese side stands ready to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, and deliver more mutually beneficial cooperation outcomes, he added.

Xi also said that China backs the Brazilian people in defending their national sovereignty and supports Brazil in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests, urging all countries to unite in resolutely fighting against unilateralism and protectionism.

Noting that the BRICS mechanism is a key platform for building consensus in the Global South, Xi congratulated Brazil on successfully hosting the recent BRICS Summit.

Xi called on Global South countries to jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, defend the basic norms governing international relations, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries.

China and Brazil should continue to address global challenges, ensure the success of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference in the Brazilian city of Belem, and promote the "Friends of Peace" group's role in facilitating the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, he said.

For his part, Lula said Brazil attaches great importance to its relations with China, and looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China, deepening strategic alignment and promoting greater development of bilateral ties.

He briefed Xi on the recent situation of Brazil's ties with the United States, as well as Brazil's unwavering principled stance on safeguarding its own sovereignty.

Lula spoke highly of China's efforts to uphold multilateralism and safeguard free trade rules, as well as its responsible role in international affairs.

The Brazilian side, he said, stands ready to enhance communication and coordination with China in multilateral mechanisms such as the BRICS, oppose unilateral bullying practices, and safeguard the common interests of all countries.

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Xi Jinping Has a Phone Call with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: August 12, 2025 13:05

On August 12, President Xi Jinping had a phone call with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at the latter's request.

Xi Jinping pointed out that China-Brazil relations are at their best in history, with a good start and strong momentum in building the China-Brazil community with a shared future and aligning development strategies. China is ready to work with Brazil to seize opportunities, strengthen coordination, deliver more mutually beneficial cooperation outcomes, set an example of uniting for strength among major Global South countries, and build a more just world and sustainable planet.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that Brazil attaches great importance to its relations with China and looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China, deepening strategic alignment, and promoting greater development of bilateral relations. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva briefed on Brazil's current relationship with the United States and Brazil's principled stance on firmly safeguarding its sovereignty. He appreciated China's efforts to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules, and its responsible role in international affairs. Brazil is ready to enhance communication and coordination with China within BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, oppose unilateralism and bullying acts, and safeguard the common interests of all countries.

Xi Jinping said that China supports the Brazilian people in defending national sovereignty and supports Brazil in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. Countries should unite in unequivocally opposing unilateralism and protectionism. The BRICS mechanism is an important platform for building consensus in the Global South. He congratulated Brazil on successfully hosting the BRICS Summit. Global South countries should join hands to uphold international fairness and justice, safeguard the basic norms governing international relations, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. China and Brazil should continue to work together to address global challenges, ensure the success of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belem, and promote the role of the "Friends for Peace" group in facilitating the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Remarks on August 12, 2025

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: August 12, 2025 18:02

Ukrinform News Agency: U.S. and Russian Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin plan to meet on August 15 to discuss the Ukraine issue. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Union's representatives have not been invited to this negotiation. How can the Foreign Ministry comment on this meeting? Will the Chinese side consider agreements, made behind the backs of other countries acceptable, fair and binding on such countries?

Lin Jian: China supports all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis, and is glad to see Russia and the U.S. keep in contact, improve their relations and advance the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. We hope all parties concerned and stakeholders will take part in the negotiation process in due course and reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement acceptable to parties concerned at an early date.

Reuters: China and the U.S. have extended the tariff truce by 90 days. Trump's executive order for this extension states that the U.S. continues to have discussions with China to "address the lack of trade reciprocity in our economic relationship and our resulting national and economic security concerns." Trump also told reporters: "We'll see what happens," and highlighted what he called his good relationship with Chinese leader. Does the foreign ministry have any comment on this extension of the trade truce, the U.S.' executive order and Trump's comment? (Similar question from the AP)

Lin Jian: China's Ministry of Commerce has released information on the economic and trade talks between China and the U.S. in Stockholm. For anything specific, I'd refer you to competent authorities. China's position on its relations with the U.S. and on the economic and trade issues between the two countries is consistent and clear.

China Daily: It was reported that Czech President Petr Pavel recently met with the 14th Dalai Lama in India after his visit to Japan. What is China's response?

Lin Jian: In disregard of China's repeated protests and strong opposition, Czech President Petr Pavel went to India to meet with the Dalai Lama. This seriously contravenes the political commitment made by the Czech government to the Chinese government, and harms China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this, and has lodged serious protests with the Czech side. In light of the severity of Pavel's provocative action, China decides to cease all engagement with him.

Reuters: U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday suggested he might allow Nvidia to sell a special version of its Blackwell AI chip in China. This would likely be more powerful than the H20 chip that Nvidia is allowed to sell. Would the Chinese foreign ministry be able to comment on this please?

Lin Jian: I'd refer you to competent authorities for specifics. China has made clear its principled position more than once on the U.S. export of chips to China. We hope the U.S. will take concrete actions to keep the global industrial and supply chains stable and unimpeded.

AFP: Trump posted on truth social that he hopes China will quadruple its soybean orders and that this is a way of substantially reducing China's trade deficit with the U.S. Does the foreign ministry have a comment on this?

Lin Jian: I'd refer you to competent authorities for specifics. China's position on the economic and trade issues between China and the U.S. is consistent and clear.

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Telephone conversation with Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong-un

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un.

August 12, 2025

19:50

The President of Russia warmly congratulated the Korean leader on the upcoming national holiday - the 80th anniversary of Liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule, marked on August 15. Kim Jong-un stressed that the DPRK considers it a shared holiday and remembers the role of the Red Army in the fight against the invaders.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further developing relations of friendship, neighbourliness, and cooperation across all areas in line with the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and the DPRK, signed in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.

Vladimir Putin highly appreciated the support provided by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea during the liberation of the Kursk Region from the invading forces of the Kiev regime, and the courage, heroism, and selflessness displayed by the DPRK soldiers.

The President of Russia also shared information with Kim Jong-un in the context of the upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump.

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un agreed to maintain personal contacts.

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Prime Minister receives a telephone call from the President of Uzbekistan

India - Ministry of External Affairs

August 12, 2025

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received a telephone call today from the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, H.E. Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

President Mirziyoyev conveyed his warm greetings and felicitations to Prime Minister and the people of India on the upcoming 79th Independence Day of India.

The two leaders reviewed progress in several key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, connectivity, health, technology and people-to-people ties.

They also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, and reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the age-old ties between India and Central Asia.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch.

New Delhi

August 12, 2025

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Raksha Rajya Mantri holds bilateral meeting with Nigerian Minister of State, Defence in New Delhi

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 12 AUG 2025 5:45PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth held a bilateral meeting with Minister of State, Defence of Nigeria Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle in New Delhi on August 12, 2025. The two Ministers discussed the way forward to further advance growing bilateral defence cooperation and military engagements across diverse domains. They deliberated upon the opportunities of collaboration in counter-terrorism training, research & development, maritime cooperation, including hydrography & anti-piracy, and industry cooperation.

Raksha Rajya Mantri highlighted the capability of the Indian defence industry to produce high-quality defence equipment such as Light Combat Aircraft, Light Combat Helicopter and Offshore Patrol Vessels. He assured full support to meet the requirements of the Nigerian side. The Indian delegation expressed readiness to welcome the team from Defence Research and Development Bureau, Nigeria to explore the area of joint R&D. The Nigerian Minister of State, Defence invited the Indian delegation to visit the defence industry in Nigeria to explore the possibility of investment in the sector.

Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle is leading a delegation on a visit to India from August 11-14, 2025. The Nigerian delegation also interacted with Indian defence industries during the visit.

India and Nigeria enjoy warm, friendly, age-old and deep-rooted relations. The defence relationship traces back to the early 1960s. India as the largest democracy in the world and Nigeria as the largest in Africa, have become natural partners.

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VK/SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2155660)

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MODERNIZATION OF CAPF

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 12 AUG 2025 5:25PM by PIB Delhi

A Central Sector Scheme namely, Modernization Plan-IV for CAPFs [Assam Rifles (AR), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Security Guard (NSG) and Sashastra Seema

Bal (SSB)] with an outlay of Rs. 1523 Crore, has been launched (implementation period 01.01.2022 to 31.03.2026) with an objective to improve the efficiency and performance of each CAPF by enhancing their capabilities through induction of latest and State of the art equipment in the areas of weaponry, communication, protective gears, surveillance and border guarding systems, training items, armoured vehicles and special transport vehicles.

The details of initiatives implemented for Welfare schemes, housing and Health care in CAPFs are at Annexure-I :

"Police" and "Public Order" are State subjects as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. The States/Union Territories (UTs) are primarily responsible for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of crimes including cyber crime through their Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs). The Central Government supplements the initiatives of the States/UTs through advisories and financial assistance under various schemes for capacity building of their LEAs.

To strengthen the mechanism to deal with cyber crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, the Central Government has taken steps which, inter-alia, include the following:

The Ministry of Home Affairs has set up the 'Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre' (I4C) as an attached office to deal with all types of cyber crimes in the country, in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

The 'National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal' (NCRP) (https://cybercrime.gov.in) has been launched, as a part of the I4C, to enable public to report incidents pertaining to all types of cyber crimes, with special focus on cyber crimes against women and children. Cyber crime incidents reported on this portal, their conversion into FIRs and subsequent action thereon are handled by the State/UT Law Enforcement Agencies concerned as per the provisions of the law.

The 'Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System' (CFCFRMS), under I4C, has been launched in the year 2021 for immediate reporting of financial frauds and to stop siphoning off funds by the fraudsters. As per CFCFRMS operated by I4C, financial amount of more than Rs.5,489 Crore has been saved in more than 17.82 lakh complaints so far. A toll-free Helpline number '1930' has been operationalized to get assistance in lodging online cyber complaints.

A State of the Art, Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) has been established at I4C where representatives of major banks, Financial Intermediaries, Payment Aggregators, Telecom Service Providers, Information Technology (IT) Intermediaries and representatives of States/UTs Law Enforcement Agency are working together for immediate action and seamless cooperation to tackle cyber crime.

So far, more than 9.42 lakhs SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards and 2,63,348 IMEIs (International Mobile Equipment Identities) as reported by Police authorities have been blocked by Government of India.

The state of the art "National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (Investigation)'' has been established, as a part of the I4C, at New Delhi to provide early stage cyber forensic assistance to Investigation Officers (IOs) of State/UT Police. So far, National Cyber Forensics Laboratory (Investigation) has provided its services to State/UT LEAs in around 12,460 cases pertaining to cyber crimes.

As per the available information, there are 605 District Mobile Units/labs in the country, these labs facilitates on-site examination and preservation of evidence, which aid the investigation process.

Inter-operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) is facilitating the integration of the stand-alone IT systems (Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems, e-Forensics, e-Prosecution, e-Courts and e-Prisons) towards seamless transfer of information between the pillars, to enhance data quality by reducing errors in data entry, increase effectiveness and timeliness in investigations, enable effective use of data analytics.

As on June 2025, Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) has been implemented in 17,712 police stations, e-Forensics in

117 forensic science laboratories, e-Prosecution in 751 prosecution districts, e-Courts in 3,637 court complexes, and e-Prisons in 1,373 prisons across all the States/UTs.

As per available record, the forward integration of CCTNS pillar with e-Prison, e-Prosecution, e-Forensics and e-Courts are completed in 32, 28, 32 and 35 States/UTs respectively, and vice-versa, backward integration from pillar applications viz., e-Prison, e-Prosecution, e-Forensics and e- Courts to CCTNS is completed in 30, 26, 30 and 31 States/UTs respectively.

*******

The details of initiatives implemented for Welfare schemes, housing and Health care in CAPFs

Allowances: The government have granted various allowances viz. Additional Free Railway Warrant/LTC, Additional House Rent Allowance (HRA) at the rate of Y class city (16%) to CAPFs personnel posted in Kashmir Valley, Air Travel facility to non-entitled CAPFs personnel posted in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), Dress Allowance, Provision of Compensation for housing to Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBORs), Composite personnel maintenance allowance, Education concession to CAPFs personnel, etc. Housing Satisfaction Level: Since year 2019 till date (till 30.06.2025), 16,364 new houses have been constructed, taking the total number of houses to 1,33,845 with housing satisfaction level of 48.80%. CAPF eAwas Portal: A web portal named "CAPFs eAwas" has been developed on 01.09.2022 to bring transparency in the housing allocation process for the personnel of CAPFs, Assam rifles (AR) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), in which a total of 6,59,155 personnel have been registered and a total of 1,31,519 personnel have been allotted houses. This web-portal has the facility of allotment of Inter-Force houses, so far, a total of 1154 personnel have been allotted Inter-Force houses.

Welfare schemes: Ex-Gratia Payments: In the unfortunate event of death due to accidents during duty, CAPF personnel's next of kin receives 25 lakh. For deaths resulting from acts of violence by terrorists or during enemy action, the compensation is 35 lakh. Accidental death insurance coverage under CAPF salary package scheme: This policy offers financial support to the families of personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty. Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme (PMSS): Launched to encourage higher technical and professional education among the wards and widows of CAPF and Assam Rifles personnel, the scheme offers 2,000 scholarships annually (1,000 for boys and 1,000 for girls). The scholarship amounts are 3,000 per month for girls and 2,500 per month for boys, disbursed annually as 36,000 and 30,000, respectively. Contributory Welfare Fund: Necessary guidelines issued to bring uniformity in payout to the Next of Kins (NoKs) of deceased CAPF personnel from Contributory Welfare Fund. Quota for wards of CAPF:- 26 seats in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) & 03 seats in Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) have been reserved for the wards of serving/deceased CAPFs & AR personnel. Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB): Established to oversee the welfare and rehabilitation of retired CAPF personnel and their families, including the next of kin of deceased or disabled personnel, WARB operates through State and District Welfare Officers across the country. "CAPF Punarvaas" scheme: - A "CAPF Punarvaas" scheme was launched by linking Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act (PSARA) website with WARB website where the data of retired and willing Ex-CAPF/AR personnel is made available to Private Security Agencies on PSARA website for re-employment in Private Security Agencies. Medical Facilities: Retired personnel and their spouses receive medical facilities from Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)/CAPF Hospitals or a medical allowance of 1000 per month. Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB): Formerly known as the Central Police Canteen, KPKB provides quality products to CAPF personnel at discounted rates through direct negotiations with suppliers. Liberalized Pension Awards (LPA) and Extraordinary Family/Disability Pension (EFP): There are special pension schemes designed for the families of CAPFs personnel who suffer death or disability due to operational hazards, ensuring financial security for their dependents.

ANNEXURE-I

Healthcare support :

In order to provide healthcare benefits to the CAPFs, AR & NSG personnel and their family members, a joint initiative has been undertaken by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Health Authority, to provide cashless healthcare services through National Health Authority (NHA) IT platform. Ayushman CAPF was launched on 23rd January 2021 in Assam and subsequently implemented across the country in a phased manner.

At present, the cashless treatment is being given to the beneficiaries in 2,006 CGHS empaneled hospitals and 32,100 Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri - Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) empaneled hospitals who have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NHA.

Approximately 41 lacs Ayushman CAPF Identity Cards have been generated for the CAPFs, AR & NSG personnel and their family members.

This was stated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

***

RK/VV/RR/HS/PS/PR

(Release ID: 2155639)

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Iran ready to expand military and defense cooperation with South Africa: Top general

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- The Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, has announced the country's readiness to enhance military and defense cooperation with South Africa.

Major General Mousavi met and held talks with the Chief of the South African National Defense Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya, in Tehran on Tuesday.

During their talks, Mousavi highlighted the significance of the high-ranking South African military delegation's visit to Tehran, citing various regional and global developments.

Pointing to the political commonalities between the two nations, he emphasized the importance of leveraging the shared interests to strengthen bilateral, regional, and international cooperation.

He also addressed the crimes committed by the Israeli regime in the region, particularly its genocide in Gaza, expressing appreciation for South Africa's filing and pursuit of the genocide case against the Israeli regime at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Mousavi condemned the recent 12-day war that was imposed by the Israeli regime and the United States on Iran, describing it as a violation of all international laws and norms.

He emphasized that the United States and the Israeli regime have a history of breaking their promises. Therefore, the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are prepared to deliver a stronger response in the event of any further aggression.

The top general said, "The Armed Forces of Iran, including the Islamic Republic of Iran Army and the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, possess significant capabilities in various military, technical, and industrial fields. These capabilities can be utilized in cooperation with the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defense of South Africa to serve their mutual national interests and enhance regional and international security."

General Maphwanya, for his part, emphasized the historical support that the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided to the South African people's struggle for freedom against apartheid, adding that

He added that this support has created a lasting bond between the two nations.

Additionally, he described the visit of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy's flotilla, which was on a global mission, as an honor for South Africa. Maphwanya stressed the importance of taking practical steps to enhance military cooperation.

General Maphwanya, for his part, highlighted the historical support of the Islamic Republic of Iran for the freedom struggles of the South African people against apartheid, adding that such support has forged a lasting historical bond between the two nations.

He also described the hosting of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy's flotilla, which was on a global mission, as an honor for his country. He emphasized the need for practical steps to expand military cooperation.

The two sides also discussed military relations and cooperation, reaffirming the strategic partnership between the Islamic Republic of Iran and South Africa.

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President Pezeshkian: Scientists assassinated for their commitment to advancing Iran

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- In a strong condemnation of the inaction by self-proclaimed advocates of human rights and peace concerning the crimes of the Israeli regime, President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran's scientists have dedicated themselves solely to serving their people, yet they have been assassinated by the Israeli regime.

President Pezeshkian made the remarks during a visit to the memorial for martyr scientists at the Nuclear Engineering Faculty of Shahid Beheshti University on Tuesday morning.

During his visit, the president paid his respects to the martyred scientists at the ceremony and signed the guestbook.

Reflecting on his connections with the honored scientists, Pezeshkian said that he had interactions with these individuals due to their positions and responsibilities, and that those martyrs had no sins other than their know-how and determination to equip Iran with advanced technologies.

He criticized the behavior of those who claim to champion democracy, human rights, and security, noting that these claims are nothing but lies.

Highlighting the aggression of the Israeli regime and its support from the United States and European countries, Pezeshkian said that the aggressive regime enjoys full support from the United States and is backed to continue the massacre in the region.

According to the president, the Israeli regime blocks access to water, medicine, bread, and food, leaving people trapped in hunger.

Pezeshkian honored the memory of the Iranian martyrs, expressing hope that the young generation would continue their legacy with strength for the independence and freedom of the Islamic country.

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Army chief hails South Africa's courageous stance on Israeli-US aggression against Iran

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Major General Amir Hatami, the commander-in-chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, says South Africa's firm stance on condemning the recent US-Israeli war of aggression against Iran is "courageous and commendable."

Hatami made the remarks while meeting with visiting chief of the South African National Defense Force, Rudzani Maphwanya on Tuesday, saying the two countries pursue an anti-colonial, anti-arrogance and justice-seeking approach, especially in the international arena.

"In the 12-day imposed war, South Africa's resolute stance in condemning the Zionist regime and the United States was courageous and commendable," he said, referring to the act of aggression Israel launched against Iran on June 13.

Hatami also referred to the US-backed Israeli crimes in Gaza, and praised the South African government for filing a genocide case in the International Court of Justice, calling it Pretoria's courageous move that will remain in history.

Today, Gaza needs practical support from governments and international institutions, he said, adding that "Unfortunately, with the influence of the United States and some Western powers, this support is more verbal than practical amid the ongoing Israeli crimes."

General Maphwanya, for his part, delivered the message and greetings from the minister of defense and the president of South Africa to the nation and government of Iran.

"This trip is not only a military one, but has a political message and was carried out at the best possible time to express our heartfelt feelings to the peace-loving nation of Iran," General Maphwanya said.

The Republic of South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran have common goals and both will always stand with the oppressed and defenseless people of the world, he said.

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Iran, South Africa place premium on expansion of military relations

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 3:18 PM

Top generals from Iran and South Africa agreed to take concrete steps toward enhancing military cooperation in pursuit of mutual national interests, affirming their commitment to a strategic partnership.

The agreement came in a Tuesday meeting between Major General Seyyed Abdolrahim Mousavi and visiting Commander of the South African National Defense Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya.

The two sides described the visit as a turning point in Tehran-Pretoria relations, according to a government statement.

General Mousavi emphasized the importance of leveraging political commonalities between the two nations to foster deeper collaboration across regional and international platforms.

He described the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) as the world's largest anti-terrorism force, noting that it possesses valuable experience that could be shared with South Africa.

He added that other branches of Iran's military, including the Army and the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, have significant capabilities in various military, technical, and industrial domains that could be utilized in collaboration with South Africa's Armed Forces and Ministry of Defense to serve national interests and promote regional and international security.

General Mousavi referred to recent US-Israeli actions against Iran as violations of international laws and norms, and affirmed that the Iranian Armed Forces are prepared to deliver a more decisive response in the event of renewed aggression.

He also expressed appreciation for South Africa's initiative to pursue a genocide case against the Zionist regime at the International Criminal Court, describing the effort as aligned with Iran's justice-oriented policies.

Commander Maphwanya, recalling Iran's historical support for South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle, stated that these ties have forged a lasting bond between the two nations.

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Iran, South Africa military commanders hail common anti-oppression goals

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 11:19 AM

Iran's Army commander and South Africa's military chief have commended their countries' common goal of fighting the global arrogance and aggressive colonial approaches.

The remarks were made by Major General Amir Hatami and the visiting Chief of the South African National Defense Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya, in Tehran on Tuesday.

The Iranian commander noted that the two sides were similarly bound by anti-colonial, anti-arrogance, and justice-driven principles, hailing that the African nation had been accorded a "prioritized" position in the Islamic Republic's foreign policy approach.

'Until restoration of global justice, human dignity'

"The Islamic Republic and South Africa have always supported each other and oppressed nations," Hatami declared, underscoring that the shared mission had to last until restoration of an international order "based on justice and human dignity."

The commander described South Africa's "firm stance" in condemning the Israeli regime's and the United States joint atrocities against Palestinians as both "courageous and commendable."

'South Africa's pro-Palestinian case set to be historical'

As a case in point regarding Pretoria's fight against the regime's aggression, he cited and praised Pretoria's decision to challenge the Zionist regime at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip.

The move, he said, would "go down in history."

The Iranian official warned that Gaza's besieged population urgently needed tangible, not symbolic, backing from governments and global institutions. "Unfortunately, due to the influence of the United States and some Western powers, such support is more verbal than practical. As a result, the crimes of this regime continue with intensity," he lamented.

'War brought US, Israel humiliation; South African support praiseworthy'

Recalling the regime's unprovoked US-backed war on the Islamic Republic in June, the commander denounced Tel Aviv and Washington for violating international law through the aggression.

He, however, underlined that the duo's all-out campaign to damage the country ended in humiliation, with Iranian missile counterstrikes forcing Tel Aviv to seek a ceasefire and Washington to refrain from resuming its attacks.

Hatami also similarly hailed Pretoria's supportive stance during the warfare as "courageous and commendable."

'Joint military cooperation, common goals' in focus

The commander further stressed that the political alignment between Tehran and Pretoria had lent South Africa "a special position" in Iran's strategic outreach to Africa, expressing hope to translate shared capabilities, especially in the military sphere, into concrete joint projects.

For his part, Maphwanya conveyed greetings from South Africa's president and defense minister, affirming that "the Republic of South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran have common goals." "We always stand alongside the oppressed and defenseless people of the world."

Reiterating solidarity with Palestinians, he denounced the Zionist regime's "bombing them while they are standing in line for food." South Africa's case at the ICJ, he said, seeks to ensure "those responsible for genocide are held accountable."

The African official also lambasted Tel Aviv's parallel aggression in the occupied West Bank, which he described as an extension of its illegal settlement-expansion policy.

Concluding his remarks, Maphwanya underlined the long-standing mutual respect between Tehran and Pretoria and called for deeper ties, particularly as far as defensive cooperation was concerned.

His visit did not simply address the nations' defense ties, but also "carries a political message," he said, adding that he had arrived in the Iranian capital at "the best possible time to express our heartfelt sentiments to the peace-loving people of Iran."

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Iran Reports 21,000 Arrests During June War With Israel

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda August 12, 2025

Summary

Iranian police report detaining about 21,000 people for alleged security violations during the 12-day June war with Israel; number of people still in custody remains unclear.

Judiciary chief previously said about 2,000 arrests were made, with many released after being cleared of spying or collaboration.

Parliament passed a bill increasing espionage penalties, but it was rejected by the Guardian Council; it could still become law if amended.

Iranian police say they detained around 21,000 people for alleged security violations during the 12-day war with Israel in June, a figure far higher than earlier official estimates.

Police spokesman Saeed Montazerolmehdi said on August 12 that public tip-offs played a significant role in the arrests. It is unclear how many remain in custody.

Among those detained, 2,774 were foreign nationals accused of spying. Authorities claimed evidence on their phones showed suspicious activity such as images of military positions, key facilities, and transmitted location data. Another 261 people were suspected of espionage, while 172 were arrested for unauthorized filming.

The announcement contrasts sharply with late July comments from judiciary chief Gholam Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, who reported about 2,000 arrests during and after the conflict, saying many had been released after investigations cleared them of spying or collaboration with Israel.

Human rights groups have voiced alarm over the scale of the crackdown.

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) documented hundreds of arrests during the conflict, often targeting ethnic minorities and activists. Amnesty International has condemned Iran's post-war surge in executions, warning of torture, unfair trials, and arbitrary killings.

Since late June, Iran has executed at least seven people accused of spying for Israel, including nuclear scientist Rouzbeh Vadi on August 6.

Vadi, arrested over a year earlier, was accused of providing sensitive intelligence that aided Israeli operations.

Iranian authorities are concerned about deep infiltration by Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, which has apparently enabled devastating military and intelligence operations inside the country.

In June, parliament passed a bill to sharply increase penalties for espionage and collaboration with hostile foreign governments, particularly Israel. Although the Guardian Council rejected the bill, a spokesman for the constitutional watchdog said that with amendments, it could still become law.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-mass-arrests- suspects-israel-war-spying/33501172.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.

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Iran-Iraq security deal provides basis for sustainable security in region: Larijani

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 11:12 AM

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has praised the security agreement signed earlier this week between Tehran and Baghdad, saying it lays the foundation for sustainable security in West Asia.

Larijani, who is in Iraq, called for further promotion of economic, social, and political cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad, emphasizing that such progress in mutual ties hinges on the establishment of sustainable security.

"The security agreement between Iran and Iraq actually provides a basis for sustainable security for both countries. We hope this agreement will be fully implemented and that the various security bodies will follow it up," he said.

Larijani further highlighted that a mechanism has been taken into consideration to monitor the implementation of the security deal, stating that the agreement will hopefully contribute to lasting security for the two countries.

The senior Iranian official also touched down on the negotiations held on economic cooperation and the creation of joint business corridors.

Expressing satisfaction with the Iraqi side's determination to respect Iran's sustainable security, Larijani stated that an agreement on the matter will greatly contribute to the promotion of cooperation in various sectors.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council stressed that the Islamic Republic is not opposed to the expansion of security cooperation with various regional countries, and welcomes such moves.

Regarding the activities of resistance groups in the West Asia region, Larijani stated that the Resistance Front constitutes an integral part of the regional nations, and seeks their best interests.

"Each of these groups is considered a national asset in their respective country, and has a good understanding of the situation. They know what to do at any particular moment. Therefore, I believe, all efforts should be devoted to maintaining this capacity," he noted.

Larijani also pointed to the close bonds and commonalities between the Iranian and Iraqi nations, describing the enthusiastic presence of Iranian pilgrims for the Arba'een mourning ceremony as a symbol of that unbreakable connection.

Arba'een marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam, which brings together millions of people from across the world who undertake an 80-km walk between the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.

Imam Hussein (AS) and his 72 companions were martyred in the Battle of Karbala in southern Iraq in 680 AD while resisting the much larger army of the despot Umayyad ruler of the time, Yazid.

The Arbaeen Walk is the largest annual peaceful gathering that witnesses the participation of millions of people from different countries, most notably Iran.

Observers say it is an endeavor to keep alive the movement of Karbala, which is a movement against terrorism, fascism, and despotism.

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Israel MOD Signs $260M Contract with Elbit Systems for Advanced Aerial Munitions Systems

Israel Ministry of Defense

11/8/2025

Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram has signed procurement contracts with Elbit Systems for Israeli-produced aerial munitions destined for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

The deal is valued at approximately $260 million (NIS 900 million). Manufacturing will take place at Elbit's domestic facilities, which employ thousands of workers who have been operating at surge capacity since the start of the Swords of Iron War to meet Ministry demands.

This procurement initiative forms a key component of the Ministry's strategic approach to strengthening Israel's defense manufacturing capabilities, incorporating operational lessons learned while ensuring full support for IDF requirements in both ongoing operations and future defense planning over the next decade.

IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: "The vital partnership between the Ministry, the IDF, and our defense industries is a significant force multiplier in our capability development processes and ensures domestic procurement capacity during challenging times. We must look ahead, accelerate production rates, and expedite development of next-generation combat systems to maintain the IDF's qualitative military edge in the region."

Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis: "We continue supporting the Israel Ministry of Defense with advanced solutions that enhance the operational readiness of the Israel Defense Forces. These new contracts underscore our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technologies that meet the evolving needs of Israel's defense forces. These newly developed products join Elbit Systems' growing portfolio of cutting-edge solutions, and I believe they will attract interest from armies around the world, given their relevance to emerging operational needs.

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Myanmar: Rights investigators reveal 'systematic torture', sexual violence

By Vibhu Mishra

12 August 2025 - UN-mandated independent investigators have uncovered "systematic torture" in Myanmar's military-run detention facilities - including beatings, electric shocks, strangulations and gang rape - a pattern of atrocities which is intensifying across the country.

In its annual report released on Tuesday, the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said it had made "important progress" documenting crimes and identifying those responsible, including commanders of security forces overseeing detention facilities.

Myanmar descended into civil war following the military coup of February 2021 and the detention of civilian leaders, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. The takeover sparked mass protests, a violent crackdown on dissent and a nationwide armed resistance movement.

'Significant evidence'

The crimes detailed in Tuesday's report include burning of sexual body parts, other forms of sexual violence and summary executions of captured combatants or civilians accused of being informers.

"We have uncovered significant evidence, including eyewitness testimony, showing systematic torture in Myanmar detention facilities," said Nicholas Koumjian, Head of the Mechanism.

"We have made headway in identifying the perpetrators, including the commanders who oversee these facilities and we stand ready to support any jurisdictions willing and able to prosecute these crimes."

Command responsibility

The report covers the period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025 and draws on more than 1,300 sources, including nearly 600 eyewitness testimonies, photographs, videos, documents, maps and forensic evidence.

It also details intensified investigations into aerial attacks on schools, homes and hospitals - including incidents in the days following the March 2025 earthquake, when rescue operations were still underway.

The UN Human Rights Council-mandated investigators are analysing the composition of the Myanmar Air Force and its chain of command to identify those responsible for such strikes.

New investigations have also been opened into atrocities in Rakhine state, where the military and the ethnic armed group Arakan Army are battling for control, alongside ongoing probes into crimes committed against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017.

International accountability

Evidence collected by investigators has already supported proceedings before the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and in Argentina.

It contributed to the ICC Prosecutor's November 2024 request for an arrest warrant for Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's military chief and to the Argentine Federal Court's February 2025 warrants against him and 24 others.

"Our report highlights a continued increase in the frequency and brutality of atrocities committed in Myanmar," Mr. Koumjian said.

"We are working towards the day when the perpetrators will have to answer for their actions in a court of law."

Spiralling crisis

Fighting between the military, pro-democracy forces and ethnic armed groups has displaced millions and pushed the country into deep political, economic and humanitarian turmoil.

The country also faces the long-running consequences of the 2017 military operations against the Rohingya Muslim minority in Rakhine state.

Those campaigns - described by the then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein as "a textbook example of ethnic cleansing" - forced hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee across the border into Bangladesh, where most remain in crowded refugee camps.

Multiple pressures

Investigators warn their work is being undermined by the UN's liquidity crisis, which have cut the mechanism's 2025 budget to just 73 per cent of the approved amount and will require a 20 per cent reduction in regular budget-funded staff in 2026.

To address resource constraints and operational challenges - including lack of direct access to witnesses in Myanmar, security risks and cybersecurity threats - the investigation team has adopted a three-year Strategic Plan, focusing on strengthening operational resilience and enhancing capacity.

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Pakistan Welcomes US Designation of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade as Foreign Terrorist Organisations

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Pakistan welcomes the U.S. decision of designating Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade as Foreign Terrorist Organisations, also adding Majeed Brigade as an alias to BLA.

Pakistan had proscribed Majeed Brigade as a terrorist entity since 18 July 2024. BLA/Majeed Brigade is involved in multiple terrorist attacks in Pakistan, including the heinous Jaffer Express terrorist incident and Khuzdar bus attack that resulted in the loss of precious lives.

Pakistan remains a steadfast bulwark against terrorism. Our sacrifices have secured critical counter-terrorism successes, not only for the country, but for regional stability and global security.

Pakistan remains unwavering in its resolve to protect its citizens and eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We remain committed to cooperating with the international community to overcome this common challenge.

Islamabad

12 August 2025

238/2025

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Russia's nuclear-powered cruise missile draws renewed media attention amid new test speculation

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Aug 12, 2025 05:51 PM

Russia's Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile has drawn renewed attention after multiple media reports speculated that Russia might recently conduct new tests. A Chinese expert said on Tuesday that the unique missile, the first of its kind in the world, could be undergoing trials to address previous technical challenges while forming a kind of deterrence amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with media reporting that its timing is coinciding with upcoming Alaska talks.

Norwegian media outlet the Barents Observer reported on August 7 that a test of the Burevestnik could be around the corner, with a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) warning issued via Russia's aviation authorities going active on August 7 and is valid until Tuesday.

Preparations have been underway for weeks at the Pankovo launch site on Novaya Zemlya in the Russian Arctic, the Barents Observer noted. The outlet said it has over the last few days studied both ship movements and satellite images from the area, in addition to online flight- and vessel-tracking services.

US media outlet Newsweek reported that a US Air Force WC-135R aircraft designed to track nuclear testing in the atmosphere flew close to Russia's nuclear bases in the northwest of the country last week.

Analysts tracking the flight online said it could indicate that Russia may soon carry out tests of its 9M730 Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile at a launch site on Novaya Zemlya, Newsweek said, noting that the remote archipelago has a long history of nuclear testing.

The Burevestnik, whose name translates as "storm petrel", is a ground-launched, low-flying cruise missile that is not only capable of carrying a nuclear warhead but is also nuclear-powered. Putin first revealed the project in March 2018, Reuters reported in October 2023, when Russian President Vladimir Putin said the country had successfully tested the missile at the time.

Its nuclear propulsion gives the missile much longer range than traditional turbojet or turbofan engines that are limited by how much fuel they can carry, Reuters said. Citing a specialist Russian military journal in 2021, Reuters said the Burevestnik would have a notional range of up to 20,000 kilometers, so could be based anywhere in Russia and strike targets in the US. The same journal said the notional altitude of the missile was just 50-100 meters, much lower than a conventionally powered cruise missile, which would make it harder for air-defense radar to detect.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the Burevestnik is a unique weapon being developed by Russia. Unlike conventional cruise missiles that rely on chemical propellants, the Burevestnik uses nuclear power, granting it almost infinite range.

The weapon, if successfully developed, could to some degrees change the pattern of global strategic nuclear strength, Song said, noting that conventionally, nuclear warheads are armed on ballistic missiles or chemically propelled cruise missiles, and Russia is the first country to be developing a nuclear weapon propelled by nuclear energy.

Reuters report also noted that the development of the missile's nuclear propulsion unit has been a huge technical challenge, involving a number of test failures. In 2019 at least five Russian nuclear specialists were killed in an explosion and release of radiation during an experiment in the White Sea, and US intelligence sources said they suspected it was part of a test of the Burevestnik.

Song said that the nuclear propellant could be technically challenging to develop, and the new tests could be aimed at solving these issues. But the actual combat performance of the missile, including its reliability and radiation risks, remains to be seen.

Indian media outlet the Eurasian Times noted on Monday that speculation about upcoming tests of the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile emerged just ahead of Trump-Putin talks in Alaska regarding the Ukraine issue.

It cannot be ruled out that Russia could be leveraging Burevestnik to form a kind of deterrence against the US and European countries regarding the Ukraine issue, expert said. Russia may seek to demonstrate that its military arsenal still contains numerous advanced weapons systems not yet committed to active combat deployment - a display that could strengthen its position during negotiations, Song said.

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Children enjoy their summer holiday across China

Xinhua) 08:50, August 13, 2025

Children assemble architectural models in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

A child participates in an interactive science experiment in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

Children experience simulation inside a mock space capsule in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua)

Children visit a museum in Yinan County of Linyi, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Wang Yanbing/Xinhua)

A teacher teaches children to practice basic martial arts skills in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Zhao Jingwu/Xinhua)

Children read books at a bookstore in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua)

Children launch "water rockets" during a community science class in Yantai, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Sun Wentan/Xinhua)

Children engage in seal carving experience in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Wang Haibin/Xinhua)

A child experiences a rock climbing activity in Zaozhuang, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Li Zongxian/Xinhua)

Children participate in a reading camp in Zaozhuang, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Sun Zhongzhe/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
South African military official visits DAFOOS in Tehran

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 12, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- Chief of the South African National Defense Force, Rudzani Maphwanya, along with his accompanying delegation, has visited the Army Command and Staff University of Iran (DAFOOS) in Tehran.

The visiting Chief of the South African National Defense Force met and held talks with Second Brigadier General Hossein Valivand-Zamani, the Commander of DAFOOS, on Tuesday.

Valivand-Zamani expressed gratitude for South Africa's courageous and wise stance against the Israeli regime, describing it as a source of pride for himself and his colleagues.

He expressed gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for their support of the oppressed people of Gaza, hoping that this visit would mark the beginning of military relations between the two countries.

Regarding the mission of DAFOOS, he said, "This university admits students from various countries, and we hope to have student and faculty exchanges with South Africa. We look forward to welcoming students from South Africa in the new term starting in September."

For his part, General Maphwanya expressed his gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Army Command and Staff University of Iran, adding, "DAFOOS possesses highly advanced academic capabilities, and we are truly enthusiastic about fostering military cooperation with this university."

Elsewhere in his remarks, Maphwanya condemned the crimes committed by the Israeli regime, emphasizing that his country strongly denounced Israel's violations of sovereignty and aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

3266**2050

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U.S. supports Taiwan's Pacific Islands Forum attendance: Official

ROC Central News Agency

08/12/2025 02:22 PM

Washington, Aug. 11 (CNA) The United States on Monday expressed its disappointment over the Solomon Islands' decision not to invite Taiwan and other "dialogue and development partners" to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting next month.

"We support the continued attendance of all PIF partners, including Taiwan, at the annual PIF Leaders Meeting, as previously agreed by PIF leaders in 1992," an unnamed State Department spokesperson told CNA.

"We are disappointed by reports that the Solomon Islands has decided to exclude dialogue and development partners from the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting this year," the spokesperson said.

As a fellow PIF dialogue partner, the U.S. "appreciates the important role PIF plays in setting the region's priorities and engaging with external partners on issues of shared concern," according to the spokesperson.

"The United States remains committed to engagement with the Pacific Islands and deepening partnerships with the PIF to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region. We are honored to be a founding PIF Dialogue Partner," it added.

Earlier this month, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced to his country's Parliament that the PIF would not invite donor countries, such as Taiwan, the U.S. and China.

Only the bloc's 18 members, including Australia and New Zealand, will participate in the 54th PIF Leaders Meeting, scheduled for Sept. 25 in Honiara, Manele told the Parliament, according to a Reuters report.

While Manele cited an ongoing review of each country's relationship with the Pacific as the main reason, Reuters cited opposition party politician Peter Kenilorea Jr as saying the issue was "all about China and Taiwan."

Meanwhile, a New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson told CNA that New Zealand supports "a continuation of the long-standing approach of the PIF to this issue, which allows for partners from around the world to attend the PIF and discuss regional priorities."

"Ultimately, how the PIF in Honiara is managed is a matter for the hosts and all PIF members," the spokesperson told CNA in an email response.

"We expect this proposal to be discussed by Foreign Ministers in Suva this week," the unnamed spokesperson said, adding that it would be inappropriate to pre-empt those discussions by commenting any further.

Taiwan has been a partner country in PIF mechanisms since 1993 and has also made several significant donations to the bloc.

Since last year, several media reports have suggested that the Solomon Islands, which broke off diplomatic ties with Taipei in favor of Beijing in 2019, would seek to exclude Taiwan from the 2025 PIF due to Chinese pressure.

Of the 18 members in the PIF, only three -- the Marshall Islands, Palau and Tuvalu -- have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

In Taipei, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs last week called on the PIF to "maintain its existing arrangements" and allow Taiwan's participation in the upcoming PIF event, an important political gathering for leaders of Pacific island states, as a "development partner."

(By Chung Yu-chen, Teng Pei-ju and Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ASG

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Taiwan's interior minister clarifies China 'recognition' comment

ROC Central News Agency

08/12/2025 05:28 PM

Taipei, Aug. 12 (CNA) "Maintaining the status quo is Taiwan's greatest consensus," Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang () said Tuesday, a day after she triggered a political backlash by suggesting that Taiwan "recognizes" the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Liu said her comment the day before was made "from the standpoint of the government of the Republic of China (ROC)" -- referring to Taiwan's official name -- and focused on how Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior (MOI) applies the law.

Explaining her remarks to reporters on Tuesday, the minister said that "foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals," must renounce foreign nationality to hold public office in Taiwan.

If the renunciation of PRC nationality is recognized by Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), a semi-official organization that handles interactions between Taiwan and China, the government will "recognize it as a valid official document," she said.

"To serve in public office one must be loyal to a single country, the Republic of China," she said.

Liu's remarks on Monday drew criticism from political opponents, who called them "unconstitutional," with Ma Ying-jeou Foundation Executive Director Hsiao Hsu-tsen () calling for her resignation.

Taiwan, officially called the Republic of China (ROC), is claimed by the People's Republic of China (PRC), leading to long-term tensions between the two sides

Asked whether the PRC is considered a country under ROC's Constitution, Liu said that "the ROC and the PRC are not subordinate to each other" according to the Additional Articles of the Constitution of the Republic of China.

She said that Taiwan's government "recognizes" the PRC insofar as it recognizes PRC documents, including those issued by the PRC government-affiliated Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), as "effective legal documents."

The interior minister also commented on the recent dismissal for holding PRC nationality of Deng Wan-hua (), who was chief of Xuetian Village in Hualien County's Fuli Township.

Liu said the eligibility of PRC-born spouses of Taiwanese citizens to run for office is regulated by the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area and the Nationality Act, and that she was not responsible for Deng being dismissed.

Liu said four other village chiefs face similar issues because they only recently renounced their household registration, possibly due to "limited understanding of the law."

She urged local governments to provide legal guidance in such circumstances.

Premier Cho Jung-tai () told reporters on Tuesday that Taiwan's position "on the front line of geopolitics" requires a more active approach to handling cross-strait relations and Indo-Pacific peace.

He said that "if both sides -- the PRC and the ROC -- can face the reality of each other's existence and even legal equality, it will help promote peace."

(By Lin Ching-yin, Wang Yang-yu and James Thompson)

Enditem/AW

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It serves as a vivid history lesson: spokesperson on Taiwan compatriots watching 'Dead to Rights' on the mainland

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Aug 13, 2025 12:15 PM

On Wednesday morning, the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office held a regular press conference, where spokesperson Zhu Fenglian responded to reporters' questions on recent cross-Straits hot topics.

Reporter: This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the recovery of the island of Taiwan. Could the spokesperson brief us on the commemorative activities being held across different regions?

Zhu: This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the recovery of the island of Taiwan. The recovery of Taiwan island was a significant achievement of the victory in the War of Resistance, a great triumph forged through the successive struggles and bloody sacrifices of all the Chinese people, including our compatriots in the island. It is a moment worthy of commemoration by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Straits.

From July 30 to August 6, the cross-Straits reporting event in Central China's Hunan Province was successfully held. Forty-four journalists from over 30 media outlets across the Straits visited historic cities such as Changsha, Changde, Hengyang, and Huaihua, touring key battlefield sites and memorial halls, interviewing veterans and historians, and participating in a memorial ceremony at the Martyrs Shrine of Mount Heng. They explored the history of the War of Resistance, reflected on its spirit, and reported on achievements in rural revitalization and technological development, Zhu said.

From July 18 to 25, the "Honoring the Martyrs of the War of Resistance and Revisiting Chinese Culture2025 Hubei-Taiwan Teacher-Student History and Culture Exchange" took place in Xiangyang, Central China's Hubei Province. Over 100 teachers and students from both sides of the Straits solemnly paid tribute at the Monument to General Zhang Zizhong and the Tomb of Fallen Soldiers. Through historical lectures, they engaged in dialogues on ancient and modern culture, including Chu culture and the history of Three Kingdoms 220-280, studied Chinese history, revisited the course of the War of Resistance, and reflected on its great spirit, Zhu said.

It is worth noting that recently many compatriots from the island of Taiwan have watched the film Dead To Rights in various places on the Chinese mainland. This film is based on the real criminal evidence of the Japanese army during the Nanjing Massacre of 1937. With historical photos as the foundation, it showcases the resolute resistance of ordinary Chinese people against the atrocities of the Japanese army with film negatives as their "weapons." It is a vivid history lesson, warning us to remember history and be self-reliant.

It is hoped that all compatriots in the island will join us in remembering the history of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, safeguarding the victory of Taiwan's recovery and return to the motherland, upholding national righteousness, resolutely opposing "Taiwan independence" and foreign interference, jointly promoting the reunification of the motherland, and jointly realizing the great dream of national rejuvenation, according to Zhu.

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Fourth Trilateral Meeting of Foreign Ministers of Romania, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova

Romania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Type: Press release

Date: 08/08/25

On August 8, 2025, Oana Toiu, the Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in the fourth trilateral meeting of foreign ministers of Romania, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. The meeting took place in Chernivtsi and was also attended by Andrii Sybiha, the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mihai Popsoi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova.

The meeting was also attended online by the foreign ministers of Poland and Lithuania: Radosaw Sikorski and Kestutis Budrys, respectively. Issues related to common threats in the Black Sea and the Baltic Sea were discussed, as these require close cooperation to combat.

The meeting highlighted the strategic importance of continuing and strengthening trilateral coordination in light of recent security developments. The format enabled a practical exchange of views on areas of shared interest to the three countries' economies and societies, with the aim of strengthening cross-border connectivity and advancing the European integration agenda.

During the discussions, Minister Oana Toiu reiterated Romania's firm commitment to continuing to support Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. She emphasized the importance of achieving a just, sustainable and inclusive peace in Ukraine, the effects of which will be felt not only in the region, but also at the systemic level, including in the Republic of Moldova: "'While constant Russian propaganda and disinformation seek to undermine and divide our societies and nations, the trilateral cooperation format between Romania, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine ensures stronger cross-border connectivity and accelerated European integration for Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, providing a solid foundation for shared prosperity.'

The Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the new bridge over the Tisza River will be completed by the end of this year. Together with her counterparts, the minister welcomed the introduction of a new railway service between Kiev, Chisinau and Bucharest. Priorities related to opening new border crossing points and modernizing and expanding existing ones were reviewed.

"Through our active coordination, we contribute to ensuring stability and security in the Black Sea region, setting a standard for our neighborhood relations," the Romanian minister added.

At the same time, the Romanian official pointed out that Ukraine's reconstruction process will require adequate coordination among partners, as well as ensuring complementarity with the European integration process. In this context, she highlighted the importance of trilateral coordination in order to capitalize on investments already made in cross-border connectivity and to use future economic opportunities.

During the trilateral meeting between Romania, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, the foreign ministers adopted a joint statement which confirmed the significant progress that had been made so far, while also highlighting the important potential of this coordination format.

"Over the past three years, this framework has gained both increased dynamism and substantial substance, based on our shared commitment to deepening joint cooperation projects, particularly in the field of energy connectivity, for the benefit of our countries," stated Minister Oana Toiu.

The Romanian official commended Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova for their progress in the European integration process, particularly in view of the challenging circumstances arising from the war of aggression against Ukraine. The minister emphasized the importance of maintaining commitment to the reform agenda, and expressed Romania's willingness to share the lessons learned from its own experience.

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Ukraine and Germany updated the status of joint defence contracts

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

11 August, 2025, 2:30 PM EEST

Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Sergiy Boyev, and Defence Attache at the Embassy of Germany, Colonel Thorsten Fries, discussed the current status of a number of defence contracts.

One of the main topics of discussion was the delivery of Patriot air-defence systems - specifically the terms and timelines for their delivery to Ukraine. The parties also agreed on mechanisms to establish direct lines of communication between the Ministries' Defence command teams.

"Time and a clear understanding of deliveries and the fulfilment of agreements are critically important for Ukraine. This enables accurate planning of military operations and the protection of civilians and infrastructure," emphasised Sergiy Boyev.

Representatives of Ukraine and Germany discussed the status and relevance of a number of contracts - the timelines for implementation, requirements, and the possibility of their extension. In particular, this concerned the production of ammunition, missiles for air and missile defence, and long-range systems.

A separate issue was the steps for developing joint enterprises, their financing, and capacity-building.

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SSU detains enemy informant who spied on Ukrainian Air Force airfields in western Ukraine

Security Service of Ukraine

13:00, 11 August 2025

The Security Service's Military Counterintelligence detained an enemy informant in Lviv region. The perpetrator was supposed to pass the coordinates of operational airfields with combat helicopters of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to the occupiers.

To adjust their strikes, the ruscists used an informant, a 38-year-old local unemployed woman, whom they recruited through a Telegram channel advertising 'easy money'.

The traitor drove around the area trying to locate airfields used by the AFU aviation.

If she found any, she would install a hidden video camera with additional power supply and remote access for the occupiers.

In this way, the invaders hoped to track the presence and movements of Ukrainian military helicopters.

The SSU identified the spy at an early stage of her reconnaissance activities and detained her after documenting her crimes.

The woman was caught 'red-handed' while trying to install a new video trap near a potential target.

The SSU Military Counterintelligence neutralized the devices and took action to protect the locations of the Defense Forces.

A smartphone with evidence of the crime was seized from the suspect during searches.

SSU investigators notified the detainee of suspicion under Article 114-2.2 of the CCU (unauthorized dissemination of information on the movement of the AFU, under martial law).

The suspect is in custody without bail and faces up to 8 years in prison.

The operation was carried out jointly with investigators from the SSU Lviv Office under the procedural supervision of Lviv Region Prosecutor's Office.

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Following SSU investigation, FSB agent sentenced to 15 years in prison for burning power substations in Cherkasy region

Security Service of Ukraine

17:00, 11 August 2025

Based on evidence collected by the Security Service, an enemy agent who burned energy infrastructure facilities in Cherkasy oblast has been sentenced to 15 years in prison with confiscation of property.

Over the course of a day, the arsonist attempted to destroy eight electrical substations and a relay cabinet in Uman district.

In this way, russia hoped to cut off power to most of the community and block rail traffic in the region.

The investigation established that the FSB's task was carried out by a 21-year-old local resident who was looking for 'easy money' on Telegram channels. There, he came to the attention of russian special services.

After recruitment, the agent first found locations with power equipment, then broke into them to pour gasoline inside and set them on fire.

The perpetrator filmed the crime to report to the occupiers, from whom he hoped to receive the promised money.

The SSU caught the traitor as he was trying to set fire to another energy object.

Based on the evidence, the court found the accused guilty under two Articles of the CCU:

28.2, 113.2 (sabotage, committed by a group, upon prior conspiracy, under martial law);

194-1.2 (intentional damage to power facilities).

The investigation was carried out by the SSU Office in Cherkasy region under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor's Office.

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Ukraine: Switzerland extends sanctions listings

Swiss Government

Press release

Published on 12 August 2025

Berne, 12.08.2025  On 12 August, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), which oversees Switzerland's sanctions, extended sanctions lists relating to Russia. In doing so, Switzerland has adopted a series of amendments introduced by the EU as part of its 18th package of sanctions. These measures take effect on 12 August.

In response to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, the EU adopted further measures against Russia on 18 July as part of its 18th package of sanctions. Acting within its mandate, the EAER has incorporated various listings on Switzerland's behalf.

A further 14 individuals and 41 entities are now subject to an asset freeze and a ban on the provision of economic resources. The individuals are also banned from entering and transiting Switzerland. The newly sanctioned individuals and entities include Russian and international companies managing shadow fleet vessels, traders of Russian crude oil, and suppliers to Russia's military industrial complex, including those based in third countries.

In addition, 105 further vessels from third countries are now subject to comprehensive bans on purchase, sale and service provision. These are mainly tankers that form part of Russia's shadow fleet circumventing the price cap on Russian crude oil and oil products, or transporting military goods for Russia. The EAER has also lowered the price cap for Russian crude oil to USD 47.6 per barrel, aligning with EU measures and current global market prices.

In the trade sector, 26 new entities, including some in third countries, have been subjected to tighter export control restrictions, notably for circumventing export restrictions on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

With the exception of the amended price cap for Russian crude oil, which comes into force on 3 September, these measures take effect at 11pm on 12 August.

The EU's 18th sanctions package, adopted on 18 July, introduces a range of additional measures, particularly in goods trading, finance and energy. These measures are currently under review to enable the Federal Council to determine whether Switzerland should adopt the new sanctions.

Belarus and Moldova

Switzerland has also adopted additional listings introduced by the EU on 15 July concerning Moldova, and on 18 July concerning Belarus.

Under measures relating to Moldova, seven individuals and three entities are now subject to an asset freeze and a ban on the provision of economic resources. The individuals are also banned from entering and transiting Switzerland. These listings target individuals and entities involved in Russian-led efforts to influence Moldova's referendum on EU membership and the 2024 presidential election.

Under measures against Belarus, eight Belarusian arms industry companies are now subject to an asset freeze and a ban on the provision of economic resources.

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Andrii Sybiha: Ukraine's bitter experience allows us to initiate new provisions of international humanitarian law to fill existing gaps

Ukraine Government

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, posted 12 August 2025 11:18

On Tuesday, August 12, at the Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga and his Czech counterpart, Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, took part in the opening of the International Humanitarian Law Amid Contemporary Challenges Conference.

The event was dedicated to the 76th anniversary of the signing of the 1949 Geneva Conventions on the protection of war victims and to discussing improvements of international humanitarian law.

"It was in Prague, with Jan's personal support, that the first meeting of the Core Group of states on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine was held in 2023," the Minister noted.

Andrii Sybiha called on the international community to return to strict compliance with the norms and principles of international humanitarian law, and that violations of it should be grounds for the application of automatic sanctions. "Law violations must be punished," the Minister stressed.

In his speech, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine drew attention to the fact that 90% of Ukrainian prisoners of war are subjected to torture by russia. According to the Minister, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine has registered more than 175,000 war crimes.

Andrii Sybiha emphasized that for russia, war crimes are a tool of warfare and added that the law ceases to apply where the russian occupier sets foot.

"russia illegally detains and forcibly displaces civilians, including children. And russia deliberately destroys civilian infrastructure. Human life is not a value for the aggressor," the Minister accentuated.

The Foreign Minister stressed that the only effective way to force the aggressor to comply with international humanitarian law is the inevitability of punishment.

In his speech, Andrii Sybiha stated Ukraine initiates the creation of the International Humanitarian Law Progressive Development Platform, which is intended to bring together states, international organizations, experts, and civil society.

Among the key tasks of the Platform are: identifying gaps in current international humanitarian law, developing new provisions on unregulated issues that take into account contemporary challenges, and promoting the implementation of amendments to international humanitarian law. According to the Minister, Ukraine is ready to act as a platform and coordinator.

"International humanitarian law is a guarantee of preserving humanity in the world. Together with international partners, Ukraine is working to ensure inevitable justice. No national jurisdiction is sufficient to respond to the scale of russian war crimes in Ukraine," Andrii Sybiha urged.

The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the agreement on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, signed in June by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset.

"This tribunal is designed to hold the russian leadership accountable for their primary crimes. For the unprovoked outbreak of a bloody war of destruction in the 21st century," the Minister stressed.

During his address, Andrii Sybiha presented the commemorative medal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine "For Supporting Ukraine's Diplomatic Effort" to Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, noting his deep personal contribution to the consistent support of Ukraine's territorial integrity and independence.



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Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

Ukraine Government

Service of the Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, posted 12 August 2025 15:02

On Tuesday, August 12, a meeting was held in Kyiv between Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic Jan Lipavsky. The parties discussed key issues on the bilateral agenda, including cooperation on Ukraine's accession to the EU, support for Ukraine's reform efforts, strengthening economic cooperation, and the importance of achieving sustainable peace.

The meeting was also attended by Petr Krouzek, Director of the East Europe Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Radek Pech, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Ukraine, Andrii Teliupa, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Oleksandr Mishchenko, and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Czech Republic Vasyl Zvarych.

During the meeting, the parties agreed on the need to maintain the consistency of reforms in the field of justice in Ukraine on the path to European integration and to continue efforts to strengthen the anti-corruption infrastructure.

Taras Kachka emphasized that our state has already completed all the technical steps necessary to open the Negotiation Cluster 1, "Fundamentals of the EU Accession Process," and also counts on the EU's full unity on the issue of Ukraine's further progress in the negotiation process.

"We expect and need unity among all twenty-seven as confirmation of their true commitment to the enlargement process. The opening of Cluster 1 for Ukraine in the near future will be an important signal that the Union is capable of resolving complex issues and that unity within the bloc remains steadfast. We believe in an approach based on achievements and will continue to take the necessary steps  we count on the respective consistency of the EU," he stressed.

Taras Kachka thanked the Czech Republic for supporting Ukraine's European integration aspirations and called for intensified efforts ahead of important meetings of EU member state leaders in the fall of this year. He emphasized that separating Ukraine and Moldova on their path to the EU would send a clear signal to those interested in weakening European unity.

The parties also agreed to intensify efforts to strengthen economic cooperation. In particular, the Deputy Prime Minister reported on the growing interest of Czech businesses in Ukraine: currently, more than 220 Czech companies are operating effectively in our country. He called for consideration of opening an office of the Czech Development Agency in Ukraine. Ukraine also invited Czech companies to join the initiative to restore facilities destroyed as a result of russian aggression.

"We can see positive dynamics in bilateral trade and strive to strengthen it. The Czech Republic can play an important role in the restoration of Ukrainian industry and the expansion of our economic cooperation on mutually beneficial terms," said Taras Kachka.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed the issue of achieving sustainable peace in Ukraine and the latest efforts of partners in this direction. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized our country's readiness for a lasting peace settlement.

Jan Lipavsky emphasized that his country stands in solidarity with Ukraine and assured of further support, both on the path to the EU and in the search for solutions for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.







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EU leaders: People of Ukraine have the right to choose their own destiny

President of the Republic of Lithuania

August 12, 2025

President Gitanas Nauseda, together with other EU heads of state and government, issued a statement expressing strong support for Ukraine.

The EU leaders welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts towards ending Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and lasting peace. Such peace, bringing stability and security, must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

"The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine," the EU leaders stated.

The joint statement underscored that Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has wider implications for European and international security. "We share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests," the leaders affirmed.

The statement also reiterated that the European Union, in coordination with the U.S. and other like-minded partners, will continue to provide political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine as it defends itself against military aggression. It will also continue to uphold and impose restrictive measures against Russia.

According to the EU leaders, a Ukraine capable of defending itself effectively is an integral part of any future security guarantees. The European Union and its member states are ready to further contribute to security guarantees based on their respective competences and capabilities, in line with international law, and taking into account the security and defense interests of all member states.

"The European Union underlines the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and will continue supporting Ukraine on its path towards EU membership," the document concludes.

The President's Communication Group

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Gradually, Then Suddenly: A Russian Breakthrough Sets Ukrainian Alarm Bells Ringing

By Mike Eckel August 12, 2025

It's one of Russia's biggest battlefield advances in months. For Ukraine, it couldn't come at a worse time.

Sometime over the weekend, Russian troops broke through Ukraine defensive lines north of the Donbas city of Pokrovsk, east of the smaller town of Dobropillya. According to military analysts and Ukrainian and Russian open-source bloggers, Russian units have pushed some 17 kilometers north of their previous lines -- a huge leap by recent battlefield measures -- capturing the village of Zolotiy Kolodyaz and coming close to a secondary supply road that stretches from Dobropillya to the north.

Some open-source reports suggest Russian forces may have actually captured the road and the village of which would further threaten supply lines for Pokrovsk, which itself is partially encircled. Last week, Russian sabotage units were reportedly spotted in the city's southern outskirts, pushing toward the city's train station in the center.

In a post to Telegram on August 12, Ukraine's top military commander, General Oleksandr Syrskiy, confirmed "infiltration" units had bypassed some Ukrainian positions: "Some of the groups have already been destroyed, the rest are in the process of being destroyed."

Reinforcements from some of more battle-hardened units are also now being deployed.

Coming on the eve of a major face-to-face meeting of US President Donald and Russian President Vladimir Putin set for August 15 in Alaska, where Trump has suggested a deal could be reached involving "land swap," the recent battlefield losses are worrying, if not alarming, experts said.

"If the Ukrainians don't restore the situation quickly and the Russians are able to consolidate and expand this into a proper breakthrough, then it could be one of the more significant events of this war," said Pasi Paroinen, a Finnish reserve officer and military analyst with the open-source intelligence organization Black Bird Group. "A lot depends on how the Ukrainians are able to respond."

"The fall of Pokrovsk is just a matter of time at this stage," said Konrad Muzyka, a Polish-based military analyst who recently returned from touring parts of Ukraine's forward positions.

"Ukrainians don't have the manpower to fight in the city, the capacity to conduct a flanking maneuver to cut Russians off from southern parts of the town," he said in an interview. "We are now probably just seeing a sort of delaying action and an effort to bleed the Russians as much as possible...rather than an attempt to retake the city."

A Ukrainian military spokesman explicitly denied reports of a Russian breakthrough.

"The Russians are using the tactic of infiltration by small groups past the first line of defense, losing a lot of personnel, which happened near Dobropillya," Lieutenant Colonel Viktor Tregubov said in a video posted to Facebook on August 12. "A small enemy group bypassed Ukrainian positions and tried to hide to our rear, but [our armed forces] are repelling such attempts."

'We Keep Killing Them, And They Keep Sending Them'

Since last winter, the 1,100-kilometer front line has shifted at only an incremental pace, despite Russia having vastly more troops and more weaponry.

Ukraine's ability to innovate on the battlefield -- particularly with drone warfare -- had given Kyiv a slight edge over Russian forces, which had long relied on Iranian-built kamikaze drones.

But Russia has matched many of Ukraine's innovations, particularly with electronic signal jamming -- which muddles Ukrainian drone fights -- and with fiber-optics drones -- where the devices are controlled by filament threads that spool out for kilometers, rendering them safe from jamming.

Moscow has also relied on glide bombs -- retrofitted heavy explosive "dumb" bombs that can be dropped by jets far from anti-aircraft defenses -- to devastate Ukrainian trenches or makeshift positions hidden in apartment building rubble.

One of the bloodier tactics Russia has employed to break through Ukrainian lines has been mounted motorcycle or motor-buggy units, where a small number of lightly armed soldiers speed across the battlefield, trying to evade drones and maneuver behind Ukrainian positions.

Though they result in high casualty rates, the motorized assaults have been effective, in part because there aren't enough Ukrainian soldiers to adequately occupy trenches or foxholes.

"We keep killing them, and they keep sending them," one officer from Ukraine's 36th Separate Marine Brigade, told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service. In line with military protocol, he gave only his call sign, Tikhy. "If they find a place [where they can get through], they immediately send them there. It's like the tactics ants use. They know there's sugar there, and they all start heading there."

Ukraine, meanwhile, continues to struggle with recruiting and training enough soldiers to deploy, particularly infantry to deploy to frontline trenches. Lawmakers overhauled mobilization regulations last year, but experts say recruiters still struggle both to attract volunteers but also train them properly.

One newly formed French-trained and armed brigade saw scores of desertions before and after deploying, prompting a criminal investigation and the resignation of its commander.

The breakthrough near Doborpillya may have occurred after Russian saboteur and reconnaissance units infiltrated behind Ukrainian positions -- not unlike what appears to be happening in parts of Pokrovsk.

If the Russians hold their positions and the road, that potentially opens a wedge in Ukrainian lines, allowing Russians to press south toward Pokrovsk and north toward Kramatorsk.

"It's the result of the lack of manpower," Muzyka said. "The forward line of Ukrainian troops is incredibly porous. Simply they do not have the men to man the fortifications that they built, the trenches that that they have."

For Ukraine, "the biggest shortcoming is manpower, which is essentially seen across the entire front," he said. "I don't think that the issue linked to mobilization is going to be solved, because it's just a fundamental structural issue of how Ukraine fights the war."

Agglomeration Threatened

One of Russia's main priorities in the Donbas region, experts and strategists said, appears to be two of Ukraine's current strongholds: Slovyansk and Kramatorsk.

Situated in the northern part of the Donetsk region, the twin industrial cities -- often lumped together as an "agglomeration" -- house a substantial grouping of Ukrainian forces as well as rear-guard supply lines, medical facilities, and local command headquarters.

Russian troops claim to have taken Chasiv Yar, a height-of-land city whose relative elevation provides an artillery vantage point to threaten Kostyantynivka , home to an important railway junction. Ukraine says the city is still contested.

The agglomeration "is much more important for the enemy. This is actually the center of the Donbas, so it is logical that they were going to assault there," Kirill Sazonov, an analyst serving with Ukraine's 41st Separate Mechanized Brigade, told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service. "But now they have decided to finish off Pokrovsk first, because, as the last six months have shown, it is impossible to storm Pokrovsk and Kostyantynivka simultaneously."

Around the beginning of the year, Russia set up a dedicated drone unit called the Rubicon Center of Advanced Unmanned Systems, an elite unit that uses advanced first-person-view drones -- drones piloted by operators who guide them using forward-looking video -- and test new tactics and technologies.

Experts say Rubicon played a pivotal role in driving Ukrainian troops out of Kursk, the Russian region Ukraine invaded last summer.

"What really surprised me was how Russians improved, how they were employing their drones," Muzyka told RFE/RL. "Rubicon is wreaking havoc on the Ukrainian second lines and the third lines [of defense] and they are just doing it in a very systematic, very methodical way."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-war-russian-breakthrough- pokrovsk/33501257.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.

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Ukraine Prepares False Flag Attack Ahead of Putin-Trump Alaska Summit - Russian MoD

Sputnik News

20250812

Russia's Defense Ministry says it has intelligence from multiple sources pointing to a planned provocation by the Kiev regime designed to sabotage the upcoming Russia-US summit.

Here's the full statement by the Russian Defense Ministry:

"According to information obtained from multiple sources, the Kiev regime is preparing a provocation aimed at disrupting the Russian-American talks scheduled for August 15 of this year.

For this purpose, on Monday, August 11, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) transported a group of foreign media journalists by car to the city of Chuguyev in the Kharkov region [near the Russian border], under the pretext of 'preparing a series of reports on residents of the city in the frontline zone.'

Directly before the summit on Friday, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are planning a provocative strike using UAVs and missiles against one of the city's densely populated residential neighborhoods or a hospital, causing significant civilian casualties. The imported Western journalists are expected to 'immediately document' the incident.

As a result of this provocation by the Kiev regime, all responsibility for the strike and the civilian deaths will be placed on the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, creating a negative media backdrop and conditions for disrupting Russian-American cooperation on resolving the conflict in Ukraine.

Provocations in other settlements under the control of the Kiev regime are also possible."

 Sputnik

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EU in No Position to Dictate Terms for Putin-Trump Alaska Summit - Hungarian PM

Sputnik News

20250812

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Hungary did not join the statement of the EU countries on Ukraine, as they tried to dictate terms to Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump ahead of their landmark summit where Europeans were not invited, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Hungary disavowed the European leaders' Tuesday statement on Ukraine, in which EU members pledged to continue providing military and diplomatic support to Kiev and imposing restrictive measures against Russia.

"Before the European liberal-mainstream choir sings about 'Putin's puppet' again, I would like to share why I could not support this statement on behalf of Hungary. The statement attempts to set conditions for negotiations to which the EU leaders were not even invited. It is sad per se that the EU has been sidelined. It would only be worse to give instructions from the bench," Orban said on his social media.

The Kremlin and the White House confirmed Putin and Trump will meet in Alaska on August 15. Multiple US and European media outlets have reported, citing diplomatic sources, that the EU has been trying to broker Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's presence at the summit. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said that Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff, during his visit to Russia last week, had mentioned the option of a trilateral meeting between Putin, Trump and Zelensky, but Russia suggested that they focus on preparations for a bilateral summit. Zelensky, meanwhile, preemptively ruled out any territorial concessions.

 Sputnik

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Headquarters decision: Each brigade will receive UAH 7 million per combat battalion

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

12 August, 2025, 11:05 AM EEST

Brigades will receive UAH 7 million for each battalion operating on the front line.

"We are significantly increasing funding for combat units. Following a meeting of the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, a decision was made to increase the volume of direct funding for brigades for procurement. This will give combat units more opportunities to independently meet their needs," said Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Defence of Ukraine.

Funding will increase in proportion to the number of battalions performing combat missions. For each brigade, this means tens of millions of hryvnias in additional funding.

Thus, under the instruction of the President, each brigade will now receive UAH 7 million for every battalion operating on the front line. According to Denys Shmyhal, this means more drones and other necessary equipment.

"In implementation of the Headquarters' decision, the Ministry of Defence held an urgent meeting of the budget commission, during which funds were reallocated to increase financing for battalions currently operating on the front line. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is compiling the list of such units. The task is to transfer the funds as quickly as possible," emphasized the Minister of Defence.

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President of Ukraine Held a Phone Call with Amir of the State of Qatar

President of Ukraine

12 August 2025 - 22:00

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Qatar for all the support provided, particularly for humanitarian assistance. The President expressed special gratitude for Qatar's mediation in bringing home many Ukrainian children who had been illegally deported to Russia. Ukraine deeply values such humanity and assistance.

The President of Ukraine and the Amir of Qatar discussed the diplomatic situation and opportunities for a genuine end to the war. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani agreed that a ceasefire must be the first step toward peace. Only then can the right foundation for diplomacy be established.

Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani emphasized that any matters related to meetings concerning Ukraine cannot be resolved without our country's participation.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready for any meeting format that can bring about a just and enduring peace. The leaders coordinated contacts with partners and agreed to stay in touch.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Qatar for its readiness to help and to jointly bring peace closer.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dick Schoof Discussed Diplomatic Situation and Support for Ukraine

President of Ukraine

12 August 2025 - 20:20

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof.

The Head of State thanked him for his clear position and full support for Ukraine.

The President emphasized that Ukraine and the Netherlands are close partners and true friends. Ukrainians value such warm relations and are grateful for the substantial assistance provided by the Netherlands.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed the Prime Minister about Ukraine's diplomatic efforts and contacts with all partners.

Dick Schoof stressed that his position is very clear: there can be no decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. The leaders agreed that a genuine, real, and fair outcome can be achieved only with Ukraine and with Europe's involvement. European nations are among the leaders in supporting Ukraine today, and they are ready to participate in the reconstruction of our country after the war ends.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dick Schoof also discussed preparations for upcoming contacts and joint projects. The leaders agreed that their teams will coordinate all the necessary details.

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Peace Can Only Be Lasting with Ukraine's Participation in Preparing the Relevant Decisions - Address by the President

President of Ukraine

12 August 2025 - 19:55

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

A brief summary of today. We continue communication with our partners - for common positions, strong positions. I spoke with President Erdogan. It was a good conversation - as always, with very well-placed emphases. I am grateful for the support of our independence, our territorial integrity, and our people. And most importantly - for supporting the position that peace can only be lasting with Ukraine's participation in preparing the relevant decisions. I would also like to note Turkiye's participation in our Coalition of the Willing - this is important, and we count on Turkiye's active involvement in bringing real peace and real security closer.

I also spoke with the President of Romania and the Prime Minister of the Netherlands. There is a principled stance from European leaders - a clear statement by the European Union, 26 countries, all with us - in diplomatic work and in principled positions. It is clear who the twenty-seventh is, always against everything, just to be uniquely "against." Still, we are in contact with everyone, presenting our arguments to all. Tomorrow, we will continue our work with the United States and with our European colleagues. Today, I also spoke with the Amir of Qatar - I thanked him for his help in securing the release of our children who had been abducted by Russia. Those are extraordinary mediation efforts - hundreds of children have been brought back. I informed him about all our conversations with partners and about possible next steps.

Today, I also held a meeting with our diplomatic team - the Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We are preparing certain steps to further mobilize our partners. I want to specifically highlight our agreements with the Netherlands - one of the leaders in supporting Ukraine in Europe - and we are preparing additional measures that will strengthen us. In particular, this concerns drones.

Today, our military delivered reports about the frontline - especially Dobropillia, Pokrovsk direction. Steps have been taken there to correct the situation, and I am grateful to every unit and every one of our warriors who are now destroying the occupier. Positions in the Kharkiv region, positions in Zaporizhzhia, positions in the Sumy region - everywhere we are doing our best to provide Ukraine with exactly the kind of defense it needs.

And one more thing. There was a meeting with government officials - the Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of Education. I instructed them to take several steps that could support our people - to support and give young Ukrainians genuinely greater opportunities to be here, to stay in Ukraine, to study here, and to build their future here - despite everything. We will increase scholarships starting from the new budget year. We will also simplify the admission requirements for Ukrainian higher education institutions, with government officials working in particular on the winter admission campaign. In addition, we will change the border-crossing rules so that this will be possible for young men aged 18-22. The aim is for more people to study here and for young Ukrainians who, for various reasons, are abroad to find it easier to maintain their ties with Ukraine. I thank everyone who stands with us, who stands with our state! I thank each and every one who fights for Ukraine, who works for Ukraine - for the state and the people. And I thank everyone who helps us.

Glory to Ukraine!

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Nicusor Dan Coordinated Joint Diplomatic Steps

President of Ukraine

12 August 2025 - 19:25

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with President of Romania Nicusor Dan.

The heads of state coordinated their next joint diplomatic steps and discussed preparations for tomorrow's contacts with other leaders.

The President of Ukraine thanked Nicusor Dan and all EU leaders for today's statement of clear support for Ukraine's independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. Our country and its partners are united in the view that the first step toward a just peace must be a ceasefire.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that at this moment everything depends on the determination of U.S. President Donald Trump and the unity of Europe. If Russia is not ready to stop the killings, then sanctions must be imposed to compel it to do so.

The Head of State also thanked Romania for supporting the synchronized and joint advancement of Ukraine and Moldova toward EU membership.

The presidents agreed on a schedule of contacts for the near future. The teams of the heads of state are working on the details.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Recep Tayyip Erdogan Discussed the Current Diplomatic Situation

President of Ukraine

12 August 2025 - 18:18

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The Head of State thanked Turkiye for hosting the Ukrainian delegation in Ankara, for its mediating role, and for organizing the meeting with the Russian side in Istanbul. He also thanked Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his personal efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.

The President of Ukraine also expressed gratitude for Turkiye's support of our country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for its warm and sincere attitude toward Ukrainians.

The leaders discussed the current diplomatic situation and the opportunities it presents. The President of Turkiye stated that any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Recep Tayyip Erdogan share the same understanding of all potential risks and threats, and agreed that a simulated rather than genuine peace will not last long and will only encourage Russia to further seize territory.

The Head of State stressed that Ukraine is ready for any meeting format in order to stop the killings and end the war. The President of Turkiye confirmed his country's readiness to host a summit of leaders with the participation of Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and Turkiye.

In addition, the leaders discussed high-level events that Ukraine is preparing during the UN General Assembly. The parties agreed that their teams will work together on Turkiye's participation.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited the President of Turkiye to visit Ukraine.

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SSU exposes UOC-MP clergymen in Odesa who praised russian imperialism and justified russia's war crimes

Security Service of Ukraine

13:00, 12 August 2025

The Security Service of Ukraine detained another two pro-kremlin agitators in Odesa. They spread enemy propaganda, justified russia's war in Ukraine and praised ruscists.

One of them is a 58-year-old priest of the Odesa diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of moscow patriarchate.

During conversations with parishioners, he glorified the occupiers and disparaged the religious beliefs of people of other faiths.

The priest maintained ties with former Member of Parliament from the party of regions Igor Markov, who is already suspected of high treason and is currently hiding in russia.

The cleric was also in contact with collaborator Valery Kaurov, who fled to russia in 2014, where he announced the creation of the kremlin project Odessa people's republic - Novorossiya.

At Kaurov's request, the church official, together with his 23-year-old daughter, took photos of himself with blank sheets of paper in front of well-known locations in Odesa and then sent the photos to russia.

russian propagandists then 'finished' the empty sheets with calls for the occupation of the city, supposedly made by local population.

The perpetrators were serving as the kremlin's mouthpieces and spread fabricated fakes on russian TV and Telegram channels, presenting their materials as 'publications by the pro-russian underground'.

The second person detained is a 44-year-old protopriest of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (moscow patriarchate), who in his sermons justified russian strikes on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure.

Forensic linguistic examinations initiated by the SSU confirmed the facts of the suspects' subversive activities against Ukraine.

SSU investigators notified the clergymen of suspicion under the Articles of the CCU:

436-2.2, 436-2.3 (justification, recognition as lawful, denial of russia's armed aggression against Ukraine, glorification of its participants);

161.1 (violation of equality of citizens depending on their religious beliefs).

The suspects face up to 8 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The activities were carried out by the SSU Office in Odesa region under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor's Office.

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EU Scrambles For Relevance Ahead Of Trump-Putin Alaska Summit

By Rikard Jozwiak August 13, 2025

Summary

US President Trump and Russian President Putin's planned Alaska meeting has left Europe scrambling for diplomatic relevance.

The EU seeks a cease-fire, security guarantees for Ukraine, and a role in monitoring any agreements, but remains sidelined in negotiations.

European sanctions on Russia have had limited impact, and internal divisions, like Hungary's stance, highlight cracks in EU unity.

Proposals like a European "reassurance force" for Ukraine face uncertainties, while NATO membership for Ukraine remains unresolved.

The planned meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, last left Europe scrambling.

The European Union, and most other European nations, are seeking to prevent the United States from "falling into a trap" while backing Ukraine diplomatically in every possible way and preparing more sanctions on Russia. But with no new diplomatic initiatives, they are struggling to secure a seat at the table as the continent's fate appears to be in other capitals' hands.

It's fair to say Brussels woke up from its August summer recess slumber with a bang last week. While few thought the US president would crack down on Russia with restrictive measures after failing to impose any meaningful sanctions to date, no one expected him to announce a full-blown, US-Russia meeting at the highest-level -- the first in over four years -- to take place on August 15 in Alaska.

Since the summit was announced, European officials have scrambled diplomatically. They met with US Vice President JD Vance in Britain over the weekend, the bloc's foreign ministers held a videoconference on August 11, and on August 13 several of the continents' leaders -- including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy -- will hold another call with Trump.

Several European officials whom RFE/RL has been in touch with under the condition of anonymity say the messages from Washington so far have been "chaotic" and apparently several factions within the US administration have different aims for the Alaska meeting.

The officials noted there are different interpretations of what Steve Witkoff, Trump's Moscow envoy, brought back from his meeting with Putin last week. While admitting they feel a bit more confident now after all the outreach, they still aren't quite sure what to expect from Alaska.

The EU's Red Lines

Despite this, the EU has made it clear it has several red lines. European officials want a cease-fire first before any discussions on potential Ukrainian concessions. With this should come security guarantees for Kyiv and a way to monitor the cease-fire.

Many see some sort of European role here, but does anyone else? On potential Ukrainian territory being seized by Russia, the Europeans say they will back Ukraine in whatever Kyiv ultimately decides, but they want a say in it. The EU will never de jure recognize Ukrainian territory as Russian -- as in the case of Crimea since 2014, for example.

When it comes to the withdrawal of Russian troops from certain occupied areas as a form of concession, there is also some skepticism that Moscow would actually respect that. One diplomat noted that Russian troops never withdrew from Moldova's Transnistria or from Georgia's occupied territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Despite all the diplomatic posturing by European countries, the fact is they've been sidelined. While they are insisting on being at the table on any issue of direct interest, there's no indication they'll be allowed to anytime soon. This stands in stark contrast with the run-up to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in the winter of 2021-2022 when Europe was fully engaged in futile attempts at negotiations with Moscow at NATO, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and bilaterally with the Kremlin.

Now, EU leaders are struggling to stay relevant. Yes, they're threatening more sanctions against Russia, and a 19th round being prepared. But while some of those measures have been a nuisance for Russia, they haven't swayed the Kremlin's political and military calculations in the past three years.

The over 200 billion euros' worth of Russian frozen assets in the bloc may be a useful bargaining chip, but only at a later point when talks can advance to Russian potentially making war reparations.

All the sanctions are up for renewal in January 2026, and unanimity is needed for an extension. Some EU diplomats have hinted that some measures might be dropped if Moscow delivers on certain aspects of a potential deal, but they contend that no real sequencing has been seriously discussed.

Looking For Reassurance

Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron and the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer touted a "reassurance force" of potentially 20,000 European troops to be stationed in western Ukraine. Some people say this plan is in the works, but they also admit there are still too many uncertainties surrounding it, such as the rules of engagement and whether the Americans would provide any assistance like intelligence and large-scale transports.

Meanwhile, many point out that NATO membership would be the ultimate security guarantee for Ukraine, but there is no consensus on this issue at the military alliance, just like when the topic was dissected at NATO summits in 2023 and 2024.

For the moment, Brussels is putting its stance out there with statements. Incidentally, Hungary chose not to add its signature, again highlighting cracks in European unity. Budapest, which enjoys warm relations with the Kremlin, wants an EU-Russia summit to follow the Trump-Putin meeting.

Hungary is already blocking Ukraine's EU aspirations and stronger measures against the Kremlin and may bloc future financial aid. While it currently stands alone in its direct defiance of Brussels on these topics, it might soon have company if Washington and Moscow start making real deals over European heads.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/europe-trump-putin- summit-alaska-ukraine/33501098.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.

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SAN DIEGO, Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers of KinderCare Learning Companies, Inc. (NYSE: KLC) common stock in or traceable to KinderCares October 2024 initial public offering (the IPO), have until October 14, 2025 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit. Captioned Gollapalli v. KinderCare Learning Companies, Inc., No. 25-cv-01424 (D. Or.), the KinderCare class action lawsuit charges KinderCare and certain of KinderCares top executives and directors, KinderCares controlling shareholder, and the underwriters of the IPO with violations of the Securities Act of 1933.

If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-kindercare-learning-companies-inc-class-action-lawsuit-klc.html

You can also contact attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at info@rgrdlaw.com.

CASE ALLEGATIONS: KinderCare provides early education and child care services in the United States. In the IPO, KinderCare sold over 27 million shares of common stock to investors at $24 per share, raising $648 million in gross offering proceeds.

The KinderCare class action lawsuit alleges that the registration statement for the IPO was false and/or misleading and/or failed to disclose that: (i) numerous incidents of child abuse, neglect, and harm had occurred at KinderCare facilities; (ii) KinderCare did not provide the highest quality care possible at its facilities, and, indeed, in numerous instances had failed to provide even basic care, meet minimum standards in the child care industry, or comply with the laws and regulations governing the care of children; and (iii) as a result, KinderCare was exposed to a material, undisclosed risk of lawsuits, adverse regulatory action, negative publicity, reputational damage, and business loss.

Since the IPO, the price of KinderCare stock fell to lows near $9 per share.

The plaintiff is represented by Robbins Geller, which has extensive experience in prosecuting investor class actions including actions involving financial fraud. You can view a copy of the complaint by clicking here.

THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased KinderCare common stock in or traceable to the IPO to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the KinderCare class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the KinderCare class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the KinderCare class action lawsuit. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit.

ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the worlds leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud and shareholder litigation. Our Firm has been ranked #1 in the ISS Securities Class Action Services rankings for four out of the last five years for securing the most monetary relief for investors. In 2024, we recovered over $2.5 billion for investors in securities-related class action cases  more than the next five law firms combined, according to ISS. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs firms in the world, and the Firms attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest ever  $7.2 billion  in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:

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Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

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Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP

J.C. Sanchez, Jennifer N. Caringal

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Delray Beach, FL, Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- North America Leads Today, Asia Pacific to Record Fastest Growth

The global high throughput screening market, valued at US$25.7 billion in 2023, stood at US$28.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 11.8% from 2024 to 2029, culminating in a forecasted valuation of US$50.2 billion by the end of the period. This growth is propelled by surging R&D investments in drug discovery, strategic government funding, and the increasing adoption of automation in life sciences research.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=134981950

What Is Driving the Market Now?

HTS adoption is accelerating due to innovations in automation, miniaturization, and high-content screening, which significantly reduce discovery timelines and enhance precision in identifying therapeutic candidates. Grants such as the USD 7.8 million awarded to the University of Pittsburgh for advanced drug discovery systems underscore growing institutional and government commitment to high-impact research.

Why Does This Matter for Global Pharma and Biotech Leaders?

The market represents a critical enabler for competitive advantage in lead discovery, target validation, compound profiling, and hit identificationprocesses essential for pipeline acceleration. While high instrument costs remain a barrier, particularly for automated liquid handling and high-resolution imaging systems, emerging markets such as China and India offer lucrative opportunities with strong government support and an expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing base.

Who Are the Key Stakeholders?

The HTS ecosystem spans pharmaceutical giants, biotechnology innovators, academic institutions, and technology providers, all collaborating to enhance assay development and manage the rising complexity of biological data. The consumables segmentdriven by recurring purchases of reagents and kitsdominates the market, ensuring steady demand as HTS workflows expand globally.

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Where Is Growth Coming From?

North America currently leads, fueled by advanced HTS infrastructure, robust funding for life science research, and a thriving biotech sector.

Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing region, supported by a diverse patient base, strong pharmaceutical capabilities, and favorable regulatory environments.

How Are Market Leaders Responding?

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. maintains global leadership through an extensive portfolio of automated systems, screening instruments, and consumables, underpinned by 3% annual R&D investment and strategic alliances.

Agilent Technologies, Inc. offers highly customizable workflows via BioTek detection instruments and Gen6 software, strengthened by acquisitions such as e-MSion (US) to enhance mass spectrometry capabilities.

Merck KGaA delivers a diverse portfolio of reagents, instruments, software, and services, leveraging global reach and deep customer relationships across pharma, academia, and government sectors.

Market Outlook

As automation, AI-driven data analysis, and advanced assay development converge, HTS will remain at the forefront of pharmaceutical innovation. Decision-makers who strategically invest in HTS capabilities today will be best positioned to accelerate therapeutic pipelines, capture market share, and deliver faster, more targeted treatments to market.

For more information, Inquire Now

Discover Connected Healthcare Market Opportunities:

Drug Screening Market

Carrier Screening Market

Cell based Assays Market

Label Free Detection Market

Life Science Instrumentation Market

Get access to the latest updates on High-Throughput Screening Companies and High-Throughput Screening Market Size
Delray Beach, FL, Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the new market research report "Functional Safety Market by Safety Sensors (Emergency Stop, Temperature, Pressure, Gas), Safety Light Curtain, Safety Controller, Programmable Safety System, Safety Switches, TIC Analysis Type (Fault & Event Analysis), Robotics  Global Forecast to 2029" The global functional safety market will USD 7,896.7 million by 2029 from USD 5,883.4 million by 2024, at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period.

Several key factors are driving the functional safety market, including mounting adoption of advanced safety solutions to prevent accidents in industrial facilities, rapid digital transformation to revolutionize traditional manufacturing, increasing industrial automation, stringent safety regulations, and advancements in technology. Furthermore, rising workplace safety awareness, infrastructure development, and the integration of AI and IoT in critical systems further fuel demand.

Download PDF Brochure:

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=146773188

Major Key Players in the Functional Safety Industry:

Schneider Electric (France),

ABB (Switzerland),

Honeywell International Inc. (US),

Emerson Electric Co. (US),

Rockwell Automation (US),

Yokogawa Electric Corporation (Japan),

HIMA (Germany),

Omron Corporation (Japan),

Siemens (Germany), and

General Electric (US).

Functional Safety Market Segmentation:

Emergency shutdown system segment is expected to account for the largest share of the functional safety market during the forecast period.

An emergency shutdown (ESD) system is designed to minimize risks associated with emergencies, particularly those involving the escape of hydrocarbons, uncontrolled flooding, or fire outbreaks in areas containing hazardous materials. These emergencies can cause the shutdown of a plant, unit, or equipment. The ESD system in its broad and general sense can be made up of field mounted sensors, trip relays, input and output valves for handling signals, alarm and Human-Machine Interface units.

Oil & gas industry segment to contribute to the largest market share in the forecast year.

The oil & gas industry's demand for functional safety is driven by stringent regulatory compliance, high-risk operating conditions, and the complexity of processes across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. Factors such as increased exploration and production, aging infrastructure, and prioritization of worker safety further emphasize the need for safety systems. In the oil & gas industry, standards such as IEC 61508 and IEC 61511, and the Norwegian Oil & Gas Guideline 070 provide recommended frameworks for the implementation of functional safety. Further, various safety instrumented systems are used in the oil & gas industry to ensure functional safety.

Europe is expected to hold the largest market share of the functional safety market during the forecast period.

Europe is one of the largest markets for functional safety systems as functional safety standards are strictly followed within the European Economic Area (which comprises all European Union countries). The safety standards and directives present in the region restrict the supply and operations of machinery that do not meet the regulatory requirements. The functional safety and functional safety requirements are stringent in the European region; these regulatory standards and safety directives in the region are driving the growth of the market for functional safety in Europe. Regulatory standards and EU directives regarding occupational safety have propelled the installation of functional safety systems in industries, which, in turn, is influencing the growth of the functional safety market in Europe.

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Opportunities and Challenges in the Functional Safety Market

Opportunity: Increasing deployment of IIoT technology in industries

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) introduces new concepts of integrated safety and compliance services. IIoT gathers data from sensors, which include pressures, levels, flow, temperature, and vibration data, and feeds this information to monitors. The data is transmitted through conductive and non-conductive networks, processed in real time, and can be alerted and even perhaps solved in an emergency. Through IIoT, companies can link their processes with safety systems, and the results can be observed in real time. IIoT provides the features of low cost, low power consumption of microprocessors, and increased security, convenience, and efficiency, besides satisfying the requirement of industrial security and stability.

Challenge: Complexities related to designing systems that comply with safety standards

Because the rising number of applications in recent times as well as a variety of factors including types of industries, installation location and operational needs such as less downtime, and absence of fire design of safety functional systems have become relatively challenging for designers. Design of safety systems involves different stages, limits, and above all, necessity for smooth communication of the intended end users' system.
SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On August 12, 2025, a historic milestone was marked in the nations technology sector as Vietnam received its first order to export 5,000 unmanned cargo airplanes to a top-tier global technology powerhouse like South Korea.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between CT Group from Vietnam and an emerging South Korean drone technology company during the Vietnam-Korea Economic Forum on August 12, 2025, in Seoul, South Korea. This landmark event took place in the presence of General Secretary of Vietnam To Lam and Prime Minister of South Korean Kim Min-seok.

CT Group signs agreements with partners at the Vietnam  Korea Economic Forum

The signing marks a historic milestone in Vietnams technological journey, sending shockwaves across the international stage. Mastering all core technologies in the cutting-edge UAV sector further affirms the strategic role of CT Group Vietnam in shaping the nations technological future. Today, UAVs have become one of the most critical technologies, with widespread applications spanning from diverse industrial sectors to urban development and consumer markets, from specialized military and security fields to the defense of whole nations or vast regions. UAVs are rapidly being adopted in various sectors such as passenger and cargo transportation, logistics and distribution, agriculture and forestry, healthcare, surveillance and rescue operations, firefighting, technology tourism, security monitoring, even carbon credit initiatives. With the rapid technological advancements in South Korea  a global technology hub, mastering all core technologies and securing an export order for unmanned cargo aircraft to such a high-end and highly selective market stands as vivid proof of a rising Vietnam in the new era. It also opens vast opportunities for CT Group to expand UAV exports to a wide range of countries worldwide. The heavy-duty transport UAV models, ranging from 60 kg to 300 kg, developed by CT UAV (a member of CT Group) boast a localization rate of up to 85% and exclusive Vietnamese technology, earning high recognition from several nations, including South Korea. The companys self-sufficiency in designing semiconductor chips for UAVs provides CT UAV with a distinctive competitive advantage. This milestone event demonstrates that Vietnam is ready to compete in the global technology arena at a higher level. It not only fosters national economic growth but also elevates Vietnams position and prestige on the international stage.

Moreover, mastering UAV technology is opening a new era for Vietnam  an era of spatial automation, where flying robots deliver a new level of social productivity thousands of percent higher than previous standards. Today, the nation that possesses a greater number of specialized UAVs will prevail not only on the economic and social fronts but across all other domains as well. In particular, CT Group is developing UAV models integrated with artificial intelligence, capable of self-learning and autonomous decision-making. This potential is elevated to a new level with the creation of a spatial environment designed to foster AI development. Combined with semiconductor technology and geolocation network identification systems, along with specialized UAV technologies for the digital transformation of land, cities, rivers, seas, deltas, and mountains. CT Group is building a robust technical foundation to support Vietnams comprehensive digital transformation. The tightly integrated ecosystem of core technologies, mutually reinforcing one another, positions CT Group among the rare corporations capable of driving synergistic, high-speed development.

At this historic event, CT Group made an even greater splash by achieving a double victory, securing an order to export 100 million ATP semiconductor chips to a South Korean partner. This is a highly complex field, dominated by a limited number of developed nations, considered the pinnacle of global technology. The fact that an emerging Asian nation like Vietnam has stepped directly into the semiconductor arena is a powerful affirmation of a Vietnam that dares to think boldly, act decisively, advance toward conquering some of the most challenging high-tech industries, such as semiconductors.

Years later, in retrospect, the world will look back on todays historic event as a miraculous milestone in the development of Vietnamese technology during the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a remarkable chapter on the challenging journey to conquer the world and bring happiness to humanity.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5c26d33f-0a0d-4006-8886-037a67f78c98
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (Atlas), the leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics solutions, today reaffirmed its partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA).

Leaders from Atlas and UAA, along with faculty and students, were joined by United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy at Merrill Field in Anchorage. The Secretary is spearheading the Trump Administrations efforts to invest in the aviation workforce, modernize the air traffic control system, enhance safety, and address nationwide shortages of pilots, controllers, and mechanics.

President Trump and I are on a mission to make our airspace the envy of the world. We will build a brand-new air traffic control system and address a chronic shortage of controllers and pilots, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. President Trumps One Big, Beautiful Bill delivered over $100 million into the Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative to deploy state of the art technology and train the next generation of aviation talent. I applaud Atlas Air Worldwide for doing their part to contribute to this mission.

Aviation is essential to Alaskas economy, with Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) ranking among the worlds top five busiest cargo hubs. The University of Alaska Anchorage is widely recognized for its top-tier aerospace program, which ensures students are equipped with the expertise needed to fill these critical roles. To further support Alaskas aviation workforce development, Atlas has also announced the renewal of its scholarship program, which helps students offset educational costs as they prepare for careers in aviation.

We are proud to continue our partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage by creating opportunities to advance aviation education, said Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer. By investing in workforce development locally, we are advancing our commitment to aviation in Alaska, and to the resilience of the broader aerospace industry. We are fully dedicated to supporting the efforts led by President Trump and Secretary Duffy to make our airspace the global gold standard.

The new round of funding builds on Atlas-sponsored scholarships announced in 2024four for maintenance technician students and three for aspiring pilotsand aims to develop a robust pipeline of talent for the sector.

We are grateful to Atlas Air Worldwide for its continued investment in UAA and our students, said Ray Weber, Dean of UAA's Community & Technical College. This generous donation is transformative, helping us build a more qualified workforce that is vital to Alaska's economic future and the broader industry. Thanks to Atlas, our students are gaining the training and credentials needed to pursue fulfilling careers, securing brighter prospects for the state's workforce and beyond.

Atlas Air Worldwide in Alaska

Anchorages proximity, within 9.5 hours by plane of 90% of the industrial world, positions it as a vital hub for global commerce, training and talent development, and it plays a key role in Atlas operations. Annual Atlas departures at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) have grown to more than 7,500 in 2024, supported by over 700 Anchorage based Pilots and ground staff.

About Atlas Air Worldwide

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the worlds largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, and 767 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

About The University of Alaska Anchorage

The University of Alaska Anchorage is Alaskas largest university, educating nearly 12,000 students annually. UAA transforms lives through teaching, research, community engagement and creative expression in a diverse and inclusive environment. As the states largest university, UAA is a driving force in Alaskas economy, producing over 1,600 graduates each year, with a large percentage entering the Alaska workforce. UAA has programs in professional piloting, aviation management, aviation maintenance technology and air traffic control. In 2022, UAA graduated 273 students to the aviation sector. Learn more at uaa.alaska.edu/aviation.

Contacts:

Media: CorpCommunications@atlasair.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/25c002d3-a261-424f-8f8e-1c14c550f722
Lery Seafood Group ASA will present its results for Q2 2025 on 20 August 2025 at Scandic Flesland Airport hotel in Bergen at 08:45 CET during the event "Vestland pa Brs". The presentation will be held in Norwegian followed by a Q&A session. You may alternatively follow the Norwegian presentation and submit questions through a live broadcast available on https://www.leroyseafood.com/no/investor/.



The quarterly report and presentation will be published at 06:30 CET.



A recording of the presentation in English will be available from 13:15 CET on https://www.leroyseafood.com/no/investor/.



This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
Diversified Provides Board of Directors Update

Diversified Energy Company PLC (LSE: DEC, NYSE: DEC) announced today that, due to other commitments, Sandra Stash will resign from the Companys Board of Directors (the Board) effective August 12, 2025. Ms. Stash, who has been a member of the board since 2019, is leaving the Board in good standing and on amiable terms. Upon her departure from the Board, it is expected that the current Board member and Independent Director, David Turner, will replace Ms.Stash as the Senior Independent Director. In addition, current Board and Sustainability Committee member Kathryn Klaber will be named chair of the Sustainability Committee, while current Board member, Martin Thomas, will replace Ms. Stash as a member of the Audit & Risk Committee. All appointments will take effect on August 12, 2025.

Diversified and its Nomination Committee remain committed to maintaining a high-quality, diverse board of directors that brings complementary experience to support its long-term goals.

David Johnson, Non-Executive Chairman of the Board, commented:

On behalf of our Board and Diversifieds management team, we thank Sandy for her service to the Company. We have valued and appreciated her insight and industry expertise. We wish her well in her future endeavors.

Ms. Stash stated:

It has been an honor to work with Diversifieds Board and executive management. Rusty and his team have done a tremendous job growing the Company, and I look forward to celebrating its continued success as a shareholder.

The Company is making this announcement pursuant to UK Listing Rule 6.4.6R.

For further information, please contact:

Diversified Energy Company PLC +1 973 856 2757 Doug Kris dkris@dgoc.com Senior Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications www.div.energy FTI Consulting dec@fticonsulting.com U.S. & UK Financial Public Relations

About Diversified Energy Company PLC

Diversified is a leading publicly traded energy company focused on natural gas and liquids production, transport, marketing, and well retirement. Through our unique differentiated strategy, we acquire existing, long-life assets and invest in them to improve environmental and operational performance until retiring those assets in a safe and environmentally secure manner. Recognized by ratings agencies and organizations for our sustainability leadership, this solutions-oriented, stewardship approach makes Diversified the Right Company at the Right Time to responsibly produce energy, deliver reliable free cash flow, and generate shareholder value.
Austin, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Veterinary Hospital Market Size & Growth Analysis

According to SNS Insider, the global Veterinary Hospital Market was valued at USD 58 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 107.73 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.13% over the forecast period of 20242032. The U.S. veterinary hospital market reached USD 16.74 billion in 2023 and is set to maintain a robust 6.92% CAGR, supported by increased pet adoption, higher spending on animal wellness, and rapid integration of advanced diagnostics and treatment facilities.

The sectors growth is fueled by an expanding range of specialty services, including oncology, orthopedics, cardiology, and advanced imaging for companion animals. The surge in insurance coverage for pets and heightened awareness about preventive care are further amplifying demand.





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Market Overview

Veterinary hospitals have evolved into full-service care facilities equipped with advanced diagnostic laboratories, imaging systems, surgical theaters, and intensive care units. As pet owners increasingly view their animals as family members, the demand for high-quality, specialized veterinary care continues to surge.

North America remains a leader, with the U.S. market benefitting from a dense network of state-of-the-art veterinary hospitals, strong pet insurance penetration, and a thriving veterinary services workforce. Europe is seeing rapid modernization of veterinary facilities, while Asia-Pacific emerges as a lucrative growth hub due to urbanization and rising middle-class pet ownership.

Major Players Analysis Listed in this Report are:

Covetrus (Prescription Management Software, Diagnostic Imaging Equipment)

Medtronic (Pulse Oximeters, Ventilators)

B. Braun Vet Care GmbH (Infusion Pumps, Surgical Instruments)

Avante Animal Health (Surgical Tables, Anesthesia Machines)

Shenzhen Mindray Animal Medical Technology Co., LTD. (Patient Monitors, Ultrasound Systems)

Midmark Corporation (Examination Tables, Dental Operatory Equipment)

Vetland Medical Sales & Services, LLC (Anesthesia Systems, Monitoring Equipment)

Masimo (Pulse Oximetry Devices, Capnography Monitors)

Dispomed Ltd (Veterinary Dental Units, Anesthesia Machines)

Nonin (Pulse Oximeters, CO2 Detectors)

IDEXX Laboratories (Catalyst Dx Chemistry Analyzer, ProCyte Dx Hematology Analyzer)

Lojer (Hospital Beds, Operating Tables)

Stryker Corporation (Surgical Equipment, Imaging Systems)

Karl Storz Endoskope (Endoscopy Equipment, Surgical Instruments)

SunTech Medical, Inc. (Vet40 Surgical Vital Signs Monitor, Blood Pressure Monitors)

ARVS (Veterinary Medical Equipment, Technical Services)

DRE Veterinary (now Avante Animal Health) (Surgical Equipment, Imaging Systems)

Hygia Health Services (Reusable Medical Devices, Sterilization Services)

SafeAir AG (Air Purification Systems, Surgical Smoke Evacuators)

HyperBranch Medical Technology, Inc. (Surgical Sealants, Adhesion Barriers)

Veterinary Hospital Market Report Scope

Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2023 US$ 58 billion Market Size by 2032 US$ 107.73 billion CAGR CAGR of 23.44% From 2024 to 2032 Base Year 2023 Forecast Period 2024-2032 Historical Data 2020-2022 Regional Analysis North America (US, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Poland, Turkey, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, Rest of Asia Pacific), Middle East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa), Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America)

Segment Analysis

By Animal:

The companion animals segment is further segmented as dogs, companion cats, and others (birds, rabbits, etc.) the companion animals segment dominated the market in 2023 with a share of around 62% due to a rise in adoption rates of dogs and cats, strong awareness towards pet well-being, and higher per capita spending on veterinary services. However, providing advanced treatment options like minimally invasive surgeries and chronic disease management means putting requests for companion pets in high demand. Equine care is the fastest-growing segment, driven by growing expenditures in premium horse healthcare of sports, recreational, and stud horses.

By Type:

In 2023, the medicine segment had a market share of 45% due to its deployment in preventive as well as therapeutic drugs like vaccines, antibiotics, and antiparasitics. Chronic diseases are a source of great revenue, but the dominance is driven by increased awareness of preventive care and chronic disease management. An increasing number of surgical procedures supported by new technologies in veterinary surgery techniques and the availability of 3D printing for prosthetics is the fastest growing segment, with a focus on orthopedic and dental surgeries.

By Sector:

The private sector dominated the veterinary hospital market, accounting for 64% of it in 2023 on the back higher infrastructure quality and diagnostic facilities as well as specialized care available at these facilities as against public institutions For example, the fastest-growing segment is outside of commercial veterinary practices e.g. public veterinary hospitals on the back of increased govt funding and animal welfare programs such as mobile clinic programs or rural animal health initiatives.

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Veterinary Hospital Market Segmentation

By Type

Medicine

Surgery

Consultation

By Animal

Companion Animals

Farm Animals

By Sector

Private

Public

Regional Analysis

North America accounted for the largest share of the veterinary hospital market in 2023 on account of factors such as strong trends in pet ownership, high disposable income levels, and an early adoption of new technologies in veterinary hospitals. Asia-Pacific is a rapidly growing region, owed to up surging pet adoption in urban areas as well as increasing disposable income and high investment from the government in veterinary healthcare infrastructure.

Recent Developments

February 2024: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared that it will be taking additional measures to enhance the animal health infrastructure, including the creation and expansion of veterinary hospitals to both augment current facilities and create new services.

March 2024: Mars Veterinary Health implemented AI-based diagnostic imaging tools in all of its hospitals, providing faster and more accurate diagnostics.

January 2024: Zoetis announced a collaboration with a major veterinary chain to launch advanced telehealth platforms that are connected to in-hospital services.

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Table of Contents  Major Key Points

Specific USP Offerings for Veterinary Hospital Market Report

Veterinary Telehealth & Remote Diagnostics Potential  Outlook of telemedicine penetration in veterinary care, and future revenue channels.

Outlook of telemedicine penetration in veterinary care, and future revenue channels. Forestalls Care Penetration Index  Measurement of uptake of niche services such as oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and exotic animal care across geographies.

Measurement of uptake of niche services such as oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and exotic animal care across geographies. Veterinary Infrastructure Modernization Tracker  Measuring upshift in hospital facility improvements as well as technology integration and service expansion.

Measuring upshift in hospital facility improvements as well as technology integration and service expansion. Pet Insurance Impact Analysis - A comprehensive examination of the effect of higher pet insurance take-up on the spending habits in veterinary hospitals.

- A comprehensive examination of the effect of higher pet insurance take-up on the spending habits in veterinary hospitals. AI & Robotics in Veterinary Surgery - Scrutinizing Profitability, Cost-effectiveness, and Adoption of Robotic-assisted and AI-driven Surgeries.

- Scrutinizing Profitability, Cost-effectiveness, and Adoption of Robotic-assisted and AI-driven Surgeries. Sustainability & Green Hospital Practices  Monitoring eco-friendly veterinary practices and the cost savings benefits in the future.

 Monitoring eco-friendly veterinary practices and the cost savings benefits in the future. Client Retention & Loyalty Program Benchmarking- Evaluating what veterinary hospitals are doing in the way of memberships, preventive care packages, and loyalty benefits to ensure client retention.

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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.
TIANJIN, China, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As one of China's first national-level economic and technological development zones, Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA) has delivered remarkable results over 40 years of opening up.

By the end of 2023, it had attracted 1,720 foreign-invested enterprises from 97 countries and regions, including 124 Fortune Global 500 companies. With actually utilized foreign capital totaling 70 billion U.S. dollars, TEDA contributes nearly one-third of Tianjin's import and export volume.

From early entries of multinational giants like Motorola and Toyota to the recent launch of new projects by INEOS and Mars, foreign-invested enterprises now account for nearly half of TEDA's GDP and over 70 percent of its industrial output.

A standout example of its global reach is the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, hailed as a model for international collaboration. Over eight years, enterprises in this zone have invested 4.45 billion U.S. dollars overseas, with operations spanning all five continents.

Leveraging platforms such as the free trade zone and comprehensive bonded zone, TEDA has replicated and scaled 110 reform initiatives, solidifying its role as a core gateway for northern Chinese enterprises to expand globally.

Rooted in its open DNA of "walking alongside giants," TEDA is set to script new chapters in international cooperation.

Source: Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA)
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- K92 Mining Inc. (K92 or the Company) (TSX: KNT; OTCQB: KNTNF) is pleased to announce the promotion of Stanley Komunt, as Vice President  Community Affairs and External Relations, and the appointment of Felix Kipalan, as General Manager  Community Affairs.

Mr. Komunt is an experienced community and government relations leader with over 25 years of experience in the mining industry, specializing in corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and risk management. Mr. Komunt joined K92 in early 2025, most recently holding the position of General Manager, Community Affairs and External Relations. From 2018 to 2024, he served as Country Manager for Newcrest Mining Limited and, following its acquisition, with Newmont Corporation in Papua New Guinea, where he played a key role in negotiations and oversaw government, regulatory, and community relations. He previously held senior roles with Nautilus Minerals Ltd., Morobe Mining Joint Venture, Highlands Pacific Limited at the Kainantu Gold Mine, and Ok Tedi Mining Ltd., managing community programs, security operations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mr. Komunt has completed advanced training in leadership, governance, and project management through Newcrest Mining Limited and other organizations, contributing to the success of major mining projects. Mr. Komunt also serves as a Director of the PNG Motor Vehicle Insurance Company and previously served as Chairman of the New Ireland Provincial Health Authority, Vice President Papua New Guinea for the Australia PNG Business Council and as a council member of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy.

Mr. Kipalan is an experienced environmental, social performance and sustainability executive with over 20 years in the mining industry, specializing in sustainability, governance and social performance in Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the Pacific. He brings a deep understanding of stakeholder expectations, Indigenous Peoples agreements and sustainable development, having served in senior roles with Lihir Gold Limited, Newcrest Mining Limited, and Newmont Corporation, where he was most recently Regional Manager, Environment, Social Performance and Governance. Mr. Kipalan also serves as Chair of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy Sustainability and Climate Change Committee, and is on a number of NGO boards. He holds a Master of Science degree in Sustainability from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Sciences from the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, Since joining K92 in early 2025, Stanley has made outstanding contributions to strengthening our community affairs and external relations function. His leadership has been instrumental in building trust, enhancing dialogue, and delivering meaningful outcomes in our engagement with government, regulatory bodies, and local stakeholders. We are equally delighted to welcome Felix to the team. He brings over two decades of senior experience in sustainability, governance, and stakeholder engagement, with the vast majority of his experience in Papua New Guinea.

These appointments significantly strengthen K92s capability to deliver on our commitment to responsible mining, sustainable development, and fostering long-term partnerships with our host communities and various stakeholders. Congratulations to Stanley on his well-deserved promotion and to Felix on his appointment  we look forward to your future contributions.

About K92

K92 Mining Inc. is engaged in the production of gold, copper and silver at the Kainantu Gold Mine in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea, as well as exploration and development of mineral deposits in the immediate vicinity of the mine. The Company declared commercial production from Kainantu in February 2018, is in a strong financial position, and is working to become a Tier 1 mid-tier producer through ongoing plant expansions. A maiden resource estimate on the Blue Lake copper-gold porphyry project was completed in August 2022. K92 is operated by a team of mining company professionals with extensive international mine-building and operational experience.

On Behalf of the Company,

John Lewins, Chief Executive Officer and Director

For further information, please contact David Medilek, P.Eng., CFA, President and Chief Operating Officer at +1-604-416-4445

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (i) the results of the Kainantu Mine Definitive Feasibility Study, and the Kainantu Preliminary Economic Assessment, including the Stage 3 Expansion, a new standalone 1.2 mtpa process plant and supporting infrastructure; (ii) statements regarding the expansion of the mine and development of any of the deposits; (iii) the Kainantu Stage 4 Expansion, operating two standalone process plants, larger surface infrastructure and mining throughputs; and (iv) the potential extended life of the Kainantu Mine.

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 are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control, that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation, Public Health Crises, including the COVID-19 virus; changes in the price of gold, silver, copper and other metals in the world markets; fluctuations in the price and availability of infrastructure and energy and other commodities; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; volatility in price of our common shares; inherent risks associated with the mining industry, including problems related to weather and climate in remote areas in which certain of the Companys operations are located; failure to achieve production, cost and other estimates; risks and uncertainties associated with exploration and development; uncertainties relating to estimates of mineral resources including uncertainty that mineral resources may never be converted into mineral reserves; the Companys ability to carry on current and future operations, including development and exploration activities at the Arakompa, Kora, Judd and other projects; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Companys ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the availability and costs of achieving the Stage 3 Expansion or the Stage 4 Expansion; the ability of the Company to achieve the inputs the price and market for outputs, including gold, silver and copper; failures of information systems or information security threats; political, economic and other risks associated with the Companys foreign operations; geopolitical events and other uncertainties, such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine; compliance with various laws and regulatory requirements to which the Company is subject to, including taxation; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions, including relationship with the communities in Papua New Guinea and other jurisdictions it operates; other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry; and the risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to in the Companys Annual Information Form under the heading Risk Factors.

Estimates of mineral resources are also forward-looking statements because they constitute projections, based on certain estimates and assumptions, regarding the amount of minerals that may be encountered in the future and/or the anticipated economics of production. The estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves is inherently uncertain and involves subjective judgments about many relevant factors. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The accuracy of any such estimates is a function of the quantity and quality of available data, and of the assumptions made and judgments used in engineering and geological interpretation, Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actual results to differ materially from those that are anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company 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.
Dublin, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Hospital Information Systems Company Evaluation" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Hospital Information System Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Hospital Information System. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and emerging trends shaping the industry. 360 Quadrants evaluated over 120 companies, of which the Top 14 Hospital Information System Companies were categorized and recognized as the quadrant leaders.



The hospital information systems (HIS) market has experienced notable growth, driven by healthcare reforms in both developed and emerging regions. HIS solutions have become essential tools for improving operational efficiency, enhancing patient outcomes, and reducing administrative overhead. A key factor fueling market expansion is the shift toward digital transformation and cloud-based deployments, which allow real-time data integration and advanced analytics across healthcare facilities.



Government initiatives, regulatory requirements, and financial incentives are also accelerating the adoption of advanced HIS platforms to meet the growing demands of modern patient care. However, despite these advantages, many healthcare providers remain cautious about replacing legacy systems due to high implementation costs, potential operational disruptions, and the complexities of integrating new technologies with outdated infrastructure. These challenges continue to temper the pace of adoption across the sector.



The 360 Quadrant maps the Hospital Information System companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, and sales strategies for the market presence of the Hospital Information System quadrant. Some of the prominent players are increasingly focusing on product launches and enhancements, investments, partnerships, collaborations, joint ventures, funding, acquisitions, expansions, agreements, sales contracts, and alliances to strengthen their presence in the global market.



Top 3 Companies

Epic Systems Corporation



Epic Systems Corporation is a leading provider of healthcare software and consulting services, specializing in integrated solutions that unify clinical and financial information across inpatient, outpatient, and payer systems. Its offerings include powerful data integration tools that enable seamless access to patient records across various care settings, along with advanced analytics and AI-driven insights that support clinical decision-making and enhance operational workflows.

Epic's product suite covers a broad range of healthcare operations, including scheduling, registration, billing, and managed care administration. It also provides specialized software for hospital departments such as pharmacy, emergency, surgery, radiology, laboratory, and intensive care. The company's core strength lies in its industry-leading electronic health record (EHR) systems, which are widely adopted by major health systems for their comprehensive functionality and interoperability.



AdvancedMD, Inc.



AdvancedMD, Inc. delivers cloud-based healthcare solutions tailored for ambulatory care providers and private medical practices. Its offerings include electronic health records (EHR), practice management, patient engagement tools, billing and payment solutions, automated reminders, business analytics, and performance benchmarking for physicians. All services are hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS), ensuring secure, reliable access through any web browser or iPhone - without the need for on-premises servers.



Serving over 40,000 practitioners across 13,000 practices and 850 medical billing companies, AdvancedMD provides an integrated platform that unites EHR, practice management, and billing functions. Its data-driven approach improves clinical efficiency, enhances financial performance, and elevates patient care for small- to mid-sized healthcare providers.



Dedalus S.p.A.



Dedalus S.p.A. is a global health IT company focused on driving digital transformation in healthcare. The company delivers integrated and interoperable technology solutions that span the full continuum of care - addressing clinical, behavioral, and social determinants of health. By combining cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, with a holistic approach to care delivery, Dedalus empowers healthcare providers to improve outcomes and operational performance.

Dedalus serves over 540 million people in more than 40 countries, supporting a global network of 7,500 healthcare organizations. Its solutions are deployed in hospitals with over 470,000 beds and are responsible for processing more than 4 billion diagnostic results annually. The company maintains a strong international presence across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, offering scalable solutions designed for modern, data-driven healthcare systems.



Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction

1.1 Market Definition

1.2 Inclusions & Exclusions

1.3 Stakeholders



2 Executive Summary



3 Market Overview

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Market Dynamics

3.2.1 Drivers

3.2.1.1 Increasing Adoption of Electronic Health Records (Ehrs) in Hospitals & Clinics

3.2.1.2 Increasing Emphasis on Collaborative Care

3.2.1.3 Integrating Data Analytics into His to Boost Patient Care, Operational Efficiency, and Decision-Making

3.2.1.4 Regulatory Guidelines to Propel His Adoption

3.2.1.5 Rising Imperative to Control Surging Healthcare Expenditures

3.2.2 Restraints

3.2.2.1 Lack of Adoption of His due to Resistance Towards Modern Infrastructure

3.2.2.2 Customer Support Difficulties

3.2.2.3 Reduced Time Allotted for His Software Usage and Training

3.2.3 Opportunities

3.2.3.1 Increasing Benefits of Cloud-Based Solutions

3.2.3.2 Rising Integration of Ai

3.2.3.3 Leveraging Mhealth Innovation

3.2.3.4 Growth in Emerging Economies

3.2.4 Challenges

3.2.4.1 Privacy and Security Concerns

3.2.4.2 Design, Development, and Maintenance of His

3.2.4.3 Shortage of Skilled It Professionals

3.3 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customers' Businesses

3.4 Industry Trends

3.4.1 Unified Data Integration and Collaborative Care Models

3.4.2 Cloud-Based Solutions and Digital Transformation

3.4.3 Advanced Analytics and Ai Integration

3.5 Ecosystem Analysis

3.6 Supply Chain Analysis

3.7 Technology Analysis

3.7.1 Key Technologies

3.7.1.1 Api Integration

3.7.1.2 Real-Time Data Analytics

3.7.1.3 Telehealth/Telemedicine

3.7.1.4 Artificial Intelligence (Ai) and Machine Learning (Ml)

3.7.2 Complementary Technologies

3.7.2.1 Health Information Exchange

3.7.2.2 Healthcare Middleware Solutions

3.7.3 Adjacent Technologies

3.7.3.1 Wearables and Internet of Medical Things (Iomt)

3.8 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

3.8.1 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

3.8.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers

3.8.3 Threat of Substitutes

3.8.4 Threat of New Entrants

3.8.5 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

3.9 Patent Analysis

3.9.1 Patent Publication Trends for Hospital Information Systems Market

3.9.2 Jurisdiction Analysis: Top Applicant Countries for Hospital Information Systems

3.9.3 Major Patents in Hospital Information Systems Market

3.10 Key Conferences & Events, 2025-2026

3.11 Case Study Analysis

3.11.1 Enhancing Patient Care with Meditech Expanse

3.11.2 Digitizing Psychology Services for Better Care at Lhch

3.11.3 Granger Medical Clinic's Path to Efficient Healthcare Operations

3.12 Business Model Analysis

3.12.1 Subscription-Based Model

3.12.2 Licensing Model

3.12.3 Pay-Per-Use Model

3.12.4 Freemium Model

3.12.5 Outcome-Based or Value-Based Model

3.12.6 Consulting Services Model

3.12.7 Platform-As-A-Service (Paas) Model

3.13 Impact of Ai/Gen Ai on Hospital Information Systems Market

3.13.1 Top Use Cases & Market Potential

3.13.1.1 Key Use Cases



4 Competitive Landscape

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win

4.2.1 Overview of Strategies Adopted by Key Players in Hospital Information Systems Market

4.3 Revenue Analysis, 2019-2023

4.4 Market Share Analysis, 2023

4.5 Company Valuation & Financial Metrics

4.5.1 Company Valuation

4.5.2 Financial Metrics

4.6 Brand/Software Comparison

4.7 Company Evaluation Matrix: Key Players, 2023

4.7.1 Stars

4.7.2 Emerging Leaders

4.7.3 Pervasive Players

4.7.4 Participants

4.7.5 Company Footprint: Key Players, 2023

4.7.5.1 Company Footprint

4.7.5.2 Region Footprint

4.7.5.3 Component Footprint

4.7.5.4 Product Type Footprint

4.7.5.5 Deployment Footprint

4.8 Company Evaluation Matrix: Startups/Smes, 2023

4.8.1 Progressive Companies

4.8.2 Responsive Companies

4.8.3 Dynamic Companies

4.8.4 Starting Blocks

4.8.5 Competitive Benchmarking: Startups/Smes, 2023

4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Key Startups/Smes

4.8.5.2 Competitive Benchmarking of Startups/Smes

4.9 Competitive Scenario

4.9.1 Product Launches

4.9.2 Deals

4.9.3 Expansions

4.9.4 Other Developments



5 Company Profiles





Epic Systems Corporation

Oracle

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Unitedhealth Group

Ge Healthcare

Medical Information Technology, Inc.

Veradigm LLC

Trubridge

Altera Digital Health Inc.

Medhost

Advancedmd, Inc.

Iqvia

Athenahealth, Inc.

Compugroup Medical

Eclinicalworks

Nxgn Management, LLC

Inovalon

Dedalus S.P.A.

Siemens Healthineers Ag

Comarch Sa

Solventum

Conifer Health Solutions, LLC

Mocdoc

Karexpert, Inc.

Napier Healthcare Solutions Pte. Ltd.

Kranium Healthcare Systems (P) Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/pbc26c

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
Dublin, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Livestock Monitoring - Company Evaluation Report, 2025" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Livestock Monitoring Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Livestock Monitoring. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and industry trends. The 360 Quadrants evaluated over 62 companies, of which the Top 8 Livestock Monitoring Companies were categorized and recognized as quadrant leaders.



Livestock monitoring utilizes technology to continuously track the health, location, and behaviour of farm animals such as cattle, sheep, and swine. This is achieved through a network of connected devices, including sensor-equipped ear tags, smart collars, and ingestible boluses, which collect real-time data on vital signs like body temperature, activity levels, and rumination patterns. This data is transmitted to a central software platform, often powered by AI, which analyzes it to provide farmers with actionable insights for proactive management, turning raw data into valuable information for precision agriculture.



The primary driver for the livestock monitoring market is the growing global demand for meat and dairy products, which requires farmers to enhance productivity and operational efficiency. The technology enables early detection of illness, often before visible symptoms appear, reducing treatment costs and preventing herd outbreaks. It also helps optimize breeding cycles through heat detection and automates location tracking to prevent theft and aid in pasture management. A growing consumer demand for food traceability and higher animal welfare standards is also pushing farmers to adopt these transparent, data-driven systems.



Despite the benefits, several barriers hinder widespread adoption. The significant upfront investment in sensors, gateways, and software can be prohibitive for many small and medium-sized farms. Ensuring the durability and reliability of electronic sensors in the harsh conditions of a farm environment is an ongoing technical challenge. Furthermore, a lack of consistent and robust internet connectivity in many rural areas can disrupt the real-time data flow that is crucial for the system's effectiveness. Farmers may also require training and support to learn how to interpret the data and integrate it into their daily operations.



The 360 Quadrant maps the Livestock Monitoring companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, and sales strategies for the market presence of the Livestock Monitoring quadrant.



Key Players:



Major vendors in the Livestock Monitoring market are Merck & Co., Inc. (US), GEA Group (Germany), DeLaval (Sweden), Nedap N.V. (Netherlands), and Afimilk Ltd. (Israel). The key strategies major vendors implement in the Livestock Monitoring market are partnerships, collaborations, product launches, and product enhancements.



Merck & Co., Inc.



Merck & Co., Inc. (known as MSD globally) is a premier biopharmaceutical company with a formidable presence in oncology and vaccines. Its growth is largely driven by the cancer immunotherapy powerhouse KEYTRUDA and its HPV vaccine, GARDASIL. Strategically, Merck is focused on expanding its oncology leadership and robust vaccine portfolio while actively pursuing business development to strengthen its future pipeline. The company also maintains a significant Animal Health division, providing a diverse range of veterinary medicines and services, underscoring its broad impact on both human and animal well-being worldwide.



GEA Group



GEA Group is a global leader in process technology and engineering, primarily for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. The German-based company provides everything from individual machines like separators and homogenizers to complete, integrated processing lines. GEA's strategy is centered on enabling sustainable and efficient production, offering solutions that reduce energy consumption and enhance food safety. By focusing on digitalization, expanding its pharma services, and supporting the growth of new food alternatives, GEA solidifies its position as a critical technology partner for life's essential industries worldwide.



DeLaval



DeLaval is a global leader in the dairy farming industry, providing integrated solutions that cover every aspect of milk production. The Swedish company's portfolio ranges from traditional milking parlors to its advanced VMST robotic milking systems. DeLaval's core strategy is to drive the automation and digitalization of dairy farms, using its DelProT software platform to provide farmers with crucial data on herd health and productivity. By focusing on robotic technology, data-driven insights, and sustainable farming practices, DeLaval is cementing its role as a key partner for modern dairy producers worldwide.



Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction

1.1 Market Definition

1.2 Stakeholders



2 Executive Summary



3 Market Overview

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Market Dynamics

3.2.1 Drivers

3.2.1.1 Growth in Meat Production

3.2.1.2 Increasing Focus on Real-Time Monitoring and Early Disease Detection

3.2.1.3 Integration of Ai and Iot

3.2.2 Restraints

3.2.2.1 High Initial Cost of Implementation

3.2.2.2 Limited Awareness and Technology Adoption in Developing Regions

3.2.3 Opportunities

3.2.3.1 Increasing Use of Smart Wearables for Livestock

3.2.3.2 Growing Focus on Reproductive Monitoring and Breeding Optimization

3.2.3.3 Integration of Blockchain Technology

3.2.3.4 Rising Demand for Organic and Sustainable Livestock Practices

3.2.4 Challenges

3.2.4.1 Managing Large Volumes of Data Generated from Multiple Monitoring Devices

3.2.4.2 Concerns About Environmental Impacts Associated with Livestock Farming

3.2.4.3 Trade Barriers and Government Regulations

3.3 Value Chain Analysis

3.4 Ecosystem Analysis

3.5 Trends and Disruptions Impacting Customer Business

3.6 Technology Analysis

3.6.1 Key Technologies

3.6.1.1 Camera-Based Systems

3.6.1.2 Automated Sorting Systems

3.6.2 Complementary Technologies

3.6.2.1 Ai and Blockchain

3.6.2.2 Agriculture Drones

3.6.3 Adjacent Technologies

3.6.3.1 Body Condition Scoring (Bcs) Systems

3.7 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

3.7.1 Threat of New Entrants

3.7.2 Threat of Substitutes

3.7.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

3.7.4 Bargaining Power of Buyers

3.7.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

3.8 Patent Analysis

3.9 Impact of Ai/Gen Ai on Livestock Monitoring Market



4 Competitive Landscape

4.1 Overview

4.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win, 2020-2025

4.3 Market Share Analysis, 2024

4.4 Revenue Analysis, 2020-2023

4.5 Company Valuation and Financial Metrics, 2025

4.6 Brand/Product Comparison

4.7 Company Evaluation Matrix: Key Players, 2024

4.7.1 Stars

4.7.2 Emerging Leaders

4.7.3 Pervasive Players

4.7.4 Participants

4.7.5 Company Footprint: Key Players, 2024

4.7.5.1 Company Footprint

4.7.5.2 Region Footprint

4.7.5.3 Offering Footprint

4.7.5.4 Farm Size Footprint

4.7.5.5 Livestock Type Footprint

4.7.5.6 Application Footprint

4.8 Company Evaluation Matrix: Startups/Smes, 2024

4.8.1 Progressive Companies

4.8.2 Responsive Companies

4.8.3 Dynamic Companies

4.8.4 Starting Blocks

4.8.5 Competitive Benchmarking: Startups/Smes, 2023

4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Startups/Smes

4.8.5.2 Competitive Benchmarking of Key Startups/Smes

4.9 Competitive Scenario

4.9.1 Product Launches

4.9.2 Deals

4.9.3 Expansions

4.9.4 Other Developments



5 Company Profiles

Merck & Co., Inc.

Gea Group

Delaval

Nedap N.V.

Afimilk Ltd.

Datamars

Boumatic

Engs Systems

Cowmanager

Dairymaster

Smaxtec Animal Care GmbH

Fullwood Joz

Waikato Milking Systems Nz Lp.

Farmbrite

Ever.Ag

Hokofarm Group

Moocall

Vas

Serket

Sensaphone

Peacock Technology Ltd.

Cowlar

Stellapps

Connecterra

Gallagher Group Limited

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8cq8mo

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Endeavour Silver Corp. (Endeavour or the Company) (NYSE: EXK; TSX: EDR) announces its financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. All dollar amounts are in US dollars ($).

We are pleased with Endeavours strong performance this quarter, highlighted by increased silver equivalent production, robust revenue growth, and the successful integration of Minera Kolpa into our portfolio, said Dan Dickson, Chief Executive Officer.

Our team delivered solid operating results, achieving higher sales at favorable market prices while maintaining costs below guidance. The completion of the Minera Kolpa acquisition has enhanced the Companys growth profile, and with Terronera nearing commercial production, we are transforming our operational landscape with an expanded resource base and increased production capacity. These milestones, combined with a steadfast commitment to operational efficiency and disciplined capital management, position the company to leverage future opportunities and deliver sustainable growth for our shareholders well into the future.

Q2 2025 Highlights

Strong and Consistent Production: 1,483,736 ounces (oz) of silver and 7,755 oz of gold for 2.5 million oz silver equivalent (AgEq) ( 1) with the addition of Kolpa, 13% higher than the same period in 2024.

1,483,736 ounces (oz) of silver and 7,755 oz of gold for 2.5 million oz silver equivalent (AgEq) with the addition of Kolpa, 13% higher than the same period in 2024. Higher oz Sold with Higher Realized Prices : $85.3 million from the sale of 1,455,680 oz of silver and 7,706 oz of gold at average realized prices of $32.95 per oz silver and $3,320 per oz gold. Revenue from operations is 46% higher than in the same period in 2024.

: $85.3 million from the sale of 1,455,680 oz of silver and 7,706 oz of gold at average realized prices of $32.95 per oz silver and $3,320 per oz gold. Revenue from operations is 46% higher than in the same period in 2024. Positive Mine Operating Cash Flow : $22.9 million in operating cash flow before working capital changes ( 2) , 21% higher than the same period in 2024.

: $22.9 million in operating cash flow before working capital changes , 21% higher than the same period in 2024. Operating Costs Below Guidance: Cash costs ( 2) of $15.35 per oz payable silver and all-in sustaining costs ( 2) of $25.16 per oz, net of by-product credits.

Cash costs of $15.35 per oz payable silver and all-in sustaining costs of $25.16 per oz, net of by-product credits. Solid Cash Position: Ended the second quarter with a robust consolidated cash balance of $52.5 million.

Ended the second quarter with a robust consolidated cash balance of $52.5 million. Completed Acquisition of Minera Kolpa: On May 1, 2025, the Company completed the acquisition of Minera Kolpa, including a $50 million bought deal equity financing, used to fund the cash component of the Kolpa Acquisition (See news release dated April 16, 2025 here), and commenced payments on the US$35 million copper stream with Versamet Royalties Corporation (See news release dated May 1, 2025 here).

Additional Credit Facility of US$15 Million : The Company amended and restated the Terronera credit facility to increase the principal amount from $120 million to $135 million (See news release dated June 24, 2025 here).

The Company amended and restated the Terronera credit facility to increase the principal amount from $120 million to $135 million (See news release dated June 24, 2025 here). Terronera Nearing Commercial Production: Q2 results have been impacted by Terroneras operating losses during the commissioning phase. On August 5, 2025 the Company announced that the throughput has rapidly increased with milling rates between 1,900 and 2,000 tpd at the end of July and that silver and gold recoveries have averaged 71% and 67%, respectively during second half of the July. (See news release dated August 5, 2025 here).

Financial Overview

Three Months Ended June 30 Q2 2025 Highlights Six Months Ended June 30 2025 2024 % Change



2025 2024 % Change Production 1,483,736 1,312,572 13% Silver ounces produced 2,689,529 2,772,578 (3%) 7,755 10,549 (26%) Gold ounces produced 16,093 20,682 (22%) 3,503 - - Lead tonnes produced 3,503 - - 2,316 - - Zinc tonnes produced 2,316 - - 2,528,562 2,156,453 17% Silver equivalent ounces produced(1) 4,401,401 4,427,130 (1%) 15.35 13.43 14% Cash costs per silver ounce(2) 15.59 13.30 17% 25.25 20.48 23% Total production costs per ounce(2) 24.79 19.65 26% 25.16 23.13 9% All-in sustaining costs per ounce (2) 24.85 22.24 12% 303,828 218,989 39% Processed tonnes 513,335 440,783 16% 142.00 140.36 1% Direct operating costs per tonne(2) 142.30 137.65 3% 201.24 192.68 4% Direct costs per tonne(2) 203.70 187.19 9% Financial 85.3 58.3 46% Revenue from operations ($ millions) 148.8 122.0 22% 1,455,680 1,217,569 20% Silver ounces sold 2,679,364 2,973,663 (10%) 7,706 9,887 (22%) Gold ounces sold 16,244 20,767 (22%) 32.95 28.94 14% Realized silver price per ounce 32.52 25.71 26% 3,320 2,374 40% Realized gold price per ounce 3,110 2,238 39% 3.3 - - Pre-production revenue ($ millions) 3.3 - - 85,711 - - Pre-production silver equivalent ounces sold(1) 85,711 - - (20.5) (14.0) (46%) Net earnings (loss) ($ millions) (53.4) (15.2) (251%) (9.2) (1.0) (841%) Adjusted net earnings (loss) ($ millions)(2) (9.4) (0.7) (1,227%) 7.7 10.2 (24%) Mine operating earnings ($ millions) 20.6 21.9 (6%) 22.9 18.9 21% Mine operating cash flow before taxes ($ millions)(2) 45.0 39.5 14% 14.4 8.1 78% Operating cash flow before working capital changes(2) 22.7 18.3 24% 1.4 (2.3) 162% EBITDA ($ millions)(2) (16.7) 11.3 (248%) 10.8 11.9 (10%) Adjusted EBITDA ($ millions)(2) 25.9 28.1 (8%) (15.3) 64.5 (124%) Working capital ($ millions) (2) (15.3) 64.5 (124%)

Shareholders (0.07) (0.06) (17%) Earnings (loss) per share  basic ($) (0.20) (0.06) (233%) (0.03) (0.00) (100%) Adjusted earnings (loss) per share  basic ($)(2) (0.03) (0.00) (100%) 0.05 0.03 67% Operating cash flow before working capital changes per share(2) 0.08 0.08 0% 283,534,276 242,889,679 17% Weighted average shares outstanding 272,987,662 235,201,630 16% (1) Silver equivalent (AgEq) is calculated using an 80:1 Ag:Au ratio, 60:1 (Ag:Pb) ratio, 85:1 (Ag:Zn) ratio and 300:1 (Ag:Cu) ratio.



(2) These are non-IFRS financial measures and ratios. Further details on these non-IFRS financial measures and ratios are provided at the end of this press release and in the MD&A accompanying the Companys financial statements, which can be viewed on the Companys website, on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Direct operating costs per tonne in Q2 2025 increased to $142.00, slightly higher than $140.36 in Q2 2024. This metric was impacted by: higher costs per tonne at Bolanitos with lower throughput as a result of maintenance of the floatation circuit and crushing area; the addition of Kolpa which has higher direct operating costs per tonne; offset by lower costs at Guanacevi.

Consolidated cash costs per oz, net of by-product credits, were 14% higher in Q2 2025 at $15.35 per oz, compared with Q2 2024, driven by an increase in costs at Bolanitos and Guanacevi from lower production, and partially offset by addition of Kolpa which at $11.81 per oz decreases the average cash cost. All-In-Sustaining Costs (AISC) in Q2 2025 was $25.16 per silver oz in Q2 2025, 9% higher compared to $23.13 per oz in Q2 2024, predominantly due to the addition of Kolpa which at $25.66 per oz increased the average AISC, and a slight increase of AISC at Guanacevi.

In Q2 2025, the Companys mine operating earnings were $7.7 million (Q2 2024  $10.2 million) from revenue of $85.3 million (Q2 2024  $58.3 million) and cost of sales of $80.9 million (Q2 2024  $48.1 million). The decrease in mine operating earnings is predominantly due to Terroneras mine operating loss of $5.9 million as the mine ramped-up towards commercial production. The increase in the cost of sales compared to the prior period was driven by $21.5 million from Kolpa and $9.2 million increase from Terronera.

In Q2 2025, the Company had operating loss of $4.8 million (Q2 2024  earnings of $1.7 million) after exploration, evaluation and development costs of $4.9 million (Q2 2024  $4.3 million), and general and administrative expense of $7.6 million (Q2 2024  $4.2 million). The increase in general and administrative expense is primarily due to the $3.6 million acquisition costs of Minera Kolpa.

The loss before taxes for Q2 2025 was $14.6 million (Q2 2024  loss of $11.3 million) after loss on derivative contracts of $10.0 million (Q2 2024  $9.2 million) and partially offset by a foreign exchange gain of $0.7 million (Q2 2024  loss of $4.0 million), investment and other income of $0.7 million (Q2 2024  $0.6 million), and finance costs of $1.1 million (Q2 2024  $0.3 million).

The Company realized a net loss for the period of $20.5 million (Q2 2024  net loss of $14.0 million) after an income tax expense of $5.9 million (Q2 2024  $2.7 million). The deferred tax recovery was realized as a result of recognizing previously unutilized losses during the period.

Adjusted net loss was $9.2 million compared to adjusted net loss of $1.0 million in Q2 2024, largely due to the operating loss from Terronera during the commissioning phase and higher depreciation and tax costs.

This news release should be read in conjunction with the Companys condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2025, and associated Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) which are available on the Companys website, www.edrsilver.com, on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Conference Call

Management will host a conference call to discuss the Companys Q2 2025 financial results today at 10:00am Pacific (PST)/ 1:00pm Eastern (EST).

Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Time: 10:00am Pacific (PDT) / 1:00pm Eastern (EDT)

Telephone: Canada & US +1-833-752-3348

International +1-647-846-2804

Replay: Canada/US Toll Free +1-855-669-9658

International +1-412-317-0088

Access code is 6575935

To access the replay using an international dial-in number, please click here.

The replay will also be available on the Companys website at www.edrsilver.com .

Management Update

Endeavour is pleased to announce the promotion of Allison Pettit as Vice President, Investor Relations, joining the companys management team, effective August 1, 2025.

With over a decade of experience in the mining sector, Ms. Pettit has a proven track record working in investor relations, corporate communications, and stakeholder engagement. She joined Endeavour in 2024 after six years at NOVAGOLD Resources Inc., where she played a key role in enhancing corporate visibility and strengthening shareholder relationships.

Ms. Pettit will continue to lead Endeavours investor relations and communications strategies, supporting the companys growth and strategic objectives. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and serves as a Board member for the BC Chapter of the Canadian Investor Relations Institute.

Endeavour warmly welcomes Ms. Pettit to its management team as the company advances its growth strategy and commitment to long-term shareholder value.

About Endeavour Silver

Endeavour is a mid-tier precious metals company with a strong commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices. With operations in Mexico and Peru, and the development of the new cornerstone mine in Jalisco state, the company aims to contribute positively to the mining industry and the communities in which it operates. In addition, Endeavour has a portfolio of exploration projects in Mexico, Chile and the United States to facilitate its goal to become a premier senior silver producer.

Contact Information

Allison Pettit

Vice President, Investor Relations

Tel: (877) 685 - 9775

Email: apettit@edrsilver.com

Website: www.edrsilver.com

Endnotes

1 Silver equivalent (AgEq)

AgEq is calculated using an 80:1 Ag:Au ratio, 60:1 (Ag:Pb) ratio, 85:1 (Ag:Zn) ratio and 300:1 (Ag:Cu) ratio.

2 Non-IFRS and Other Financial Measures and Ratios

Certain non-IFRS and other non-financial measures and ratios are included in this press release, including cash costs per silver ounce, total production costs per ounce, all-in costs per ounce, AISC per ounce, direct operating costs per tonne, direct costs per tonne, silver co-product cash costs, gold co-product cash costs, realized silver price per ounce, realized gold price per ounce, adjusted net earnings (loss) adjusted net earnings (loss) per share, mine operating cash flow before taxes, working capital, operating cash flow before working capital adjustments, operating cash flow before working capital changes per share, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), adjusted EBITDA per share, sustaining and growth capital and adjusted net earnings (loss).

Please see the June 30, 2025 MD&A for explanations and a discussion of these non-IFRS and other non-financial measures and ratios. The Company believes that these measures and ratios, in addition to conventional measures and ratios prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), provide management and investors an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The non-IFRS and other non-financial measures and ratios are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures or ratios of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These measures and ratios do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers. Certain additional disclosures for these non-IFRS measures have been incorporated by reference and can be found in the section Non-IFRS Measures in the June 30, 2025 MD&A available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

Reconciliation of Working Capital

Expressed in thousands of US dollars As at June 30, 2025 As at December 31, 2024 Current assets $197,877 $157,647 Current liabilities 220,043 78,866 Working capital ($22,166) $78,781

Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) and Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Expressed in thousands US dollars Three Months Ended June 30

Six Months Ended June 30

2025

2024

2025

2024

Net earnings (loss) for the period per financial statements ($20,455) ($14,007) ($53,362) ($15,201) Unrealized foreign exchange (Gain) loss (2,802) 2,196 (2,527) 2,332 (Gain) loss on derivatives & copper stream valuation 10,088 9,253 42,019 9,253 Acquisition costs 3,602 - 3,602 - Change in fair value of investments (178) 425 (321) 1,286 Change in fair value of cash settled DSUs 582 1,159 1,220 1,624 Adjusted net earnings (loss) ($9,163) ($974) ($9,369) ($706) Basic weighted average share outstanding 283,534,276 242,889,679 272,987,662 235,201,630 Adjusted net earnings (loss) per share ($0.03) ($0.00) ($0.03) ($0.00)

Reconciliation of Mine Operating Cash Flow Before Taxes

Expressed in thousands US dollars Three Months Ended June 30

Six Months Ended June 30

2025

2024

2025 2024

Mine operating earnings per financial statements $7,744 $10,196 $20,586 $21,852 Share-based compensation 136 74 170 153 Depreciation 15,010 8,639 24,216 17,516 Mine operating cash flow before taxes $22,890 $18,909 $44,972 $39,521

Reconciliation of Operating Cash Flow Before Working Capital Changes and Operating Cash Flow Before Working Capital Changes Per Share

Expressed in thousands US dollars Three Months Ended June 30

Six Months Ended June 30

(except for per share amounts) 2025

2024

2025

2024

Cash from (used in) operating activities per financial statements $21,564 $12,367 $24,927 $16,950 Net changes in non-cash working capital per financial statements 7,192 4,301 2,207 (1,350) Operating cash flow before working capital changes $14,372 $8,066 $22,720 $18,300 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 283,534,276 242,889,679 272,987,662 235,201,630 Operating cash flow before working capital changes per share $0.05 $0.03 $0.08 0.08

Reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

Expressed in thousands US dollars Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net earnings (loss) for the period per financial statements ($20,455) ($14,007) ($53,362) ($15,201) Depreciation  cost of sales 15,010 8,639 24,216 17,516 Depreciation  exploration, evaluation and development 4 188 254 347 Depreciation  general & administration 102 106 207 205 Finance costs 846 103 1,030 238 Current income tax expense 9,094 2,878 14,373 8,545 Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (3,199) (163) (3,413) (396) EBITDA $1,402 ($2,256) ($16,695) $11,254 Share based compensation 1,681 1,162 2,197 2,332 Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss (2,802) 2,196 (2,527) 2,332 (Gain) loss on derivatives & copper stream valuation 10,088 9,253 42,019 9,253 Change in fair value of investments (178) 425 (321) 1,286 Change in fair value of cash settled DSUs 582 1,159 1,220 1,624 Adjusted EBITDA $10,773 $11,939 $25,893 $28,081 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 283,534,276 242,889,679 272,987,662 235,201,630 Adjusted EBITDA per share $0.04 $0.05 $0.09 $0.12

Reconciliation of Cash Cost Per Silver Ounce, Total Production Costs Per Ounce, Direct Operating Costs Per Tonne, Direct Costs Per Tonne

Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Direct production costs per financial statements $23,058 $11,594 $16,301 $50,953 Purchase of the third-party material (9,988) - - (9,988) Smelting and refining costs included in revenue - 345 1,088 1,433 Opening finished goods (4,763 ) (1,328) (610) (6,701) Closing finished goods 5,939 935 574 7,448 Direct operating costs 14,246 11,546 17,353 43,145 Purchase of the third-party material 9,988 - - 9,988 Royalties 6,197 164 - 6,361 Special mining duty (1) 1,079 423 148 1,650 Direct costs 31,510 12,133 17,501 61,144 By-products sales (11,635) (13,962) (13,275) (38,872) Opening by-products inventory fair market value 2,232 1,410 544 4,186 Closing by-products inventory fair market value (2,302) (1,310) (526) (4,138) Cash costs net of by-products 19,805 (1,729) 4,244 22,320 Depreciation 6,315 2,747 5,157 14,219 Share-based compensation 66 46 24 136 Opening finished goods depreciation (1,618) (384) (134) (2,136) Closing finished goods depreciation 1,843 214 125 2,182 Total production costs $26,411 $894 $9,416 $36,721





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Direct production costs per financial statements $23,001 $10,702 - $33,703 Purchase of the third-party material (5,043) - - (5,043) Smelting and refining costs included in revenue - 447 - 447 Opening finished goods (2,314) (651) - (2,965) Closing finished goods 4,038 557 - 4,595 Direct operating costs 19,682 11,055 - 30,737 Purchase of the third-party material 5,043 - - 5,043 Royalties 5,556 92 - 5,648 Special mining duty(1) 129 637 - 766 Direct costs 30,410 11,784 - 42,194 By-products sales (8,622) (14,852) - (23,474) Opening by-products inventory fair market value 871 851 - 1,722 Closing by-products inventory fair market value (2,187) (751) - (2,938) Cash costs net of by-products 20,472 (2,968) - 17,504 Depreciation 5,965 2,674 - 8,639 Share-based compensation 60 14 - 74 Opening finished goods depreciation (771) (219) - (990) Closing finished goods depreciation 1,326 144 - 1,470 Total production costs $27,052 ($355) - $26,697









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 96,834 88,098 118,896 303,828 Payable silver ounces 994,882 100,183 359,347 1,454,412 Cash costs per silver ounce $19.91 ($17.26) $11.81 $15.35 Total production costs per ounce $26.55 $8.92 $26.20 $25.25 Direct operating costs per tonne $147.11 $131.06 $145.95 $142.00 Direct costs per tonne $325.40 $137.72 $147.20 $201.24









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 112,897 106,092 - 218,989 Payable silver ounces 1,192,165 111,296 - 1,303,461 Cash costs per silver ounce $17.17 ($26.67) - $13.43 Total production costs per ounce $22.69 ($3.19) - $20.48 Direct operating costs per tonne $174.34 $104.20 - $140.36 Direct costs per tonne $269.36 $111.07 - $192.68





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Direct production costs per financial statements $48,502 $21,323 $16,301 $86,126 Purchase of the third-party material (15,854) - - (15,854) Smelting and refining costs included in revenue - 781 1,088 1,869 Opening finished goods (5,448) (485) (610) (6,543) Closing finished goods 5,939 935 574 7,448 Direct operating costs 33,139 22,554 17,353 73,046 Purchase of the third-party material 15,854 - - 15,854 Royalties 12,263 341 - 12,604 Special mining duty (1) 2,063 854 148 3,065 Direct costs 63,319 23,749 17,501 104,569 By-products sales (24,426) (25,954) (13,275) (63,655) Opening by-products inventory fair market value 3,185 772 544 4,501 Closing by-products inventory fair market value (2,302) (1,310) (526) (4,138) Cash costs net of by-products 39,776 (2,743) 4,244 41,277 Depreciation 12,884 5,384 5,157 23,425 Share-based compensation 86 60 24 170 Opening finished goods depreciation (1,188) (92) (134) (1,414) Closing finished goods depreciation 1,843 214 125 2,182 Total production costs $53,401 $2,823 $9,416 $65,640









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Direct production costs per financial statements $49,887 $20,521 $ - $70,408 Purchase of the third-party material (7,435) - - (7,435) Smelting and refining costs included in revenue - 940 - 940 Opening finished goods (7,137) (699) - (7,836) Closing finished goods 4,038 557 - 4,595 Direct operating costs 39,353 21,319 - 60,672 Purchase of the third-party material 7,435 - - 7,435 Royalties 11,888 168 - 12,056 Special mining duty(1) 1,650 697 - 2,347 Direct costs 60,326 22,184 - 82,510 By-products sales (19,353) (27,117) - (46,470) Opening by-products inventory fair market value 2,909 619 - 3,528 Closing by-products inventory fair market value (2,187) (751) - (2,938) Cash costs net of by-products 41,695 (5,065) - 36,630 Depreciation 11,780 5,736 - 17,516 Share-based compensation 122 31 - 153 Opening finished goods depreciation (1,459) (197) - (1,656) Closing finished goods depreciation 1,326 144 - 1,470 Total production costs $53,464 $ 649 $ - $54,113





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 199,272 195,167 118,896 513,335 Payable silver ounces 2,007,163 281,260 359,347 2,647,770 Cash costs per silver ounce $19.82 ($9.75) $11.81 $15.59 Total production costs per ounce $26.60 $10.04 $26.20 $24.79 Direct operating costs per tonne $166.30 $115.56 $145.95 $142.30 Direct costs per tonne $317.75 $121.69 $147.20 $203.70









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 227,901 212,882 - 440,783 Payable silver ounces 2,523,900 229,869 - 2,753,769 Cash costs per silver ounce $16.52 ($22.03) - $13.30 Total production costs per ounce $21.18 $2.82 - $19.65 Direct operating costs per tonne $172.68 $100.14 - $137.65 Direct costs per tonne $264.70 $104.21 - $187.19 (1) Special mining duty is an EBITDA royalty tax presented as a current income tax in accordance with IFRS.





Reconciliation of All-In Costs Per Ounce and AISC per ounce

Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Cash costs net of by-products $19,805 ($1,729) $4,244 $22,320 Operations share-based compensation 66 46 24 136 Corporate general and administrative 1,074 323 4,755 6,152 Acquisition costs - - (3,602) (3,602) Corporate share-based compensation 756 274 323 1,353 Reclamation - amortization/accretion 159 90 41 290 Mine site expensed exploration 29 27 1,036 1,092 Equipment loan payments - - 66 66 Capital expenditures sustaining 4,781 1,675 2,332 8,788 All-In-Sustaining Costs $26,670 $706 $9,219 $36,595 Acquisition costs 3,602 Growth exploration, evaluation and development 3,633 Growth capital expenditures 45,362 All-In-Costs $89,192









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Cash costs net of by-products $20,472 ($2,968) - $17,504 Operations share-based compensation 60 14 - 74 Corporate general and administrative 2,263 910 - 3,173 Corporate share-based compensation 684 277 - 961 Reclamation - amortization/accretion 101 73 - 174 Mine site expensed exploration 341 335 - 676 Equipment loan payments 78 67 - 145 Capital expenditures sustaining 5,245 2,199 - 7,444 All-In-Sustaining Costs $29,244 $907 $- $30,151 Growth exploration, evaluation and development 3,299 Growth capital expenditures 48,367 All-In-Costs $81,817









Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 96,834 88,098 118,896 303,828 Payable silver ounces 994,882 100,183 359,347 1,454,412 Silver equivalent production (ounces) 1,282,853 440,678 805,032 2,528,562 All-in-Sustaining cost per ounce $26.81 $7.04 $25.66 $25.16





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 112,897 106,092 - 218,989 Payable silver ounces 1,192,165 111,296 - 1,303,461 Silver equivalent production (ounces) 1,535,161 621,292 - 2,156,453 All-in-Sustaining cost per ounce $24.53 $8.15 - $23.13





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Cash costs net of by-products $39,776 ($2,743) $4,244 $41,277 Operations share-based compensation 86 60 24 170 Corporate general and administrative 3,750 1,403 4,755 9,908 Acquisition costs - - (3,602) (3,602) Corporate share-based compensation 1,050 393 323 1,766 Reclamation - amortization/accretion 307 175 41 523 Mine site expensed exploration 299 201 1,036 1,536 Equipment loan payments - - 66 66 Capital expenditures sustaining 8,227 3,600 $2,332 14,159 All-In-Sustaining Costs $53,495 $3,089 $9,219 $65,803 Acquisition costs 3,602 Growth exploration, evaluation and development 7,408 Growth capital expenditures 81,576 All-In-Costs $158,389





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Cash costs net of by-products $41,695 ($5,065) $- $36,630 Operations share-based compensation 122 31 - 153 Corporate general and administrative 4,467 1,711 - 6,178 Corporate share-based compensation 1,374 527 - 1,901 Reclamation - amortization/accretion 203 150 - 353 Mine site expensed exploration 463 649 - 1,112 Equipment loan payments 206 287 - 493 Capital expenditures sustaining 9,961 4,465 - 14,426 All-In-Sustaining Costs $58,491 $2,755 $- $61,246 Growth exploration, evaluation and development 6,823 Growth capital expenditures 86,272 All-In-Costs $154,341





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2025 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 199,272 195,167 118,896 513,335 Payable silver ounces 2,007,163 281,260 359,347 2,647,770 Silver equivalent production (ounces) 2,617,300 979,070 805,032 4,401,401 All-in-Sustaining cost per ounce $26.65 $10.98 $25.66 $24.85





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Six Months Ended

June 30, 2024 Guanacevi Bolanitos Kolpa Total Throughput tonnes 227,901 212,882 - 440,783 Payable silver ounces 2,523,900 229,869 - 2,753,769 Silver equivalent production (ounces) 3,200,854 1,226,276 - 4,427,129 All-in-Sustaining cost per ounce $23.17 $11.98 - $22.24

Reconciliation of Sustaining Capital and Growth Capital

Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Capital expenditures sustaining $8,788 $7,444 $14,159 $14,426 Growth capital expenditures 45,362 48,367 81,576 86,272 Property, plant and equipment expenditures per Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows $54,150 $55,811 $95,735 $100,698





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2025

2024

2025

2024

Mine site expensed exploration $1,092 $676 $1,536 $1,112 Growth exploration, evaluation and development 3,633 3,299 7,408 6,823 Total exploration, evaluation and development 4,725 3,975 8,944 7,935 Exploration, evaluation and development depreciation 4 188 254 347 Exploration, evaluation and development share-based compensation 193 127 262 278 Exploration, evaluation and development expense $4,922 $4,290 $9,460 $8,560

Reconciliation of Realized Silver Price Per Ounce and Realized Gold Price Per Ounce

Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Gross silver sales $48,873 $35,234 $88,024 $76,456 Silver ounces sold 1,483,311 1,217,569 2,706,995 2,973,663 Realized silver price per ounce $32.95 $28.94 $32.52 $25.71 inclusive of 27,631 oz of silver from pre-production at Terronera





Expressed in thousands of US dollars Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Gross gold sales $27,989 $23,474 $52,772 $46,470 Gold ounces sold 8,431 9,887 16,969 20,767 Realized gold price per ounce $3,320 $2,374 $3,110 $2,238 inclusive of 725 oz of gold from pre-production at Terronera

Cautionary Note Regarding 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 forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Companys forecasted operations, costs and expenditures, the Companys exploration programs, extensions of mineralisation and publishing of future resource estimates; and the timing and results of various related activities, including achieving commercial production at Terronera. The Company does not intend to and does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, production levels, performance or achievements of Endeavour and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include but are not limited to unexpected changes in production and costs guidance; the ongoing effects of inflation and supply chain issues on mine economics; fluctuations in the prices of silver and gold; fluctuations in the currency markets (particularly the Mexican peso, Chilean peso, Canadian dollar, Peruvian sol, and U.S. dollar); fluctuations in interest rates; effects of inflation; changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada, Peru and Mexico; financial risks due to precious metals prices; operating or technical difficulties in mineral exploration, development and mining activities; risks and hazards of mineral exploration, development and mining (including, but not limited to environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected geological conditions, pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance; availability of and costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; diminishing quantities or grades of mineral reserves as properties are mined; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits; satisfaction of conditions precedent to drawdown under the Debt Facility; challenges to the Companys title to properties; May 27, 2025 filed with the S.E.C. and Canadian securities regulatory authorities.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to: the continued operation of the Companys mining operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, forecasted mine economics, mining operations will operate and the mining products will be completed in accordance with managements expectations and achieve their stated production outcomes, 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 forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.
ICMC certification delivered by Dark Horse Consulting certifies ElevateBios compliant and scalable manufacturing capabilities for advanced therapies using U.S. and E.U. commercial-level evaluation standards

BaseCamp is the first genetic medicine manufacturing business to receive certification across viral gene delivery, non-viral gene delivery, and cell therapy products

WALTHAM, Mass., Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ElevateBio, a technology-driven company focused on powering the creation of life-transforming genetic medicines, today announced it has received comprehensive certification from the Initiative for Certification of Manufacturing Capabilities (ICMC) program for its viral gene delivery, non-viral gene delivery, and cell therapy manufacturing capabilities at its flagship ElevateBio BaseCamp facility in Waltham, Massachusetts.

The ICMC certification, administered by Dark Horse Consulting (DHC), is designed to address the industry's most critical manufacturing challenges through assessment of capabilities to help reduce regulatory risk, accelerate development timelines, and increase probability of technical success. Through the certification process, DHC evaluates nine comprehensive systems, expanding upon the seven systems outlined in FDA's CBER Compliance Program Guidance Manual Chapter 45 for Biological Drug Products and incorporating EU Directive 2003/94/EC standards. Meeting the criteria of ICMCs comprehensive evaluation systems is a demonstration of ElevateBio's commitment to quality, compliance, and manufacturing excellence.

This comprehensive ICMC certification represents the most rigorous third-party manufacturing evaluation available in our industry today," said Michael Paglia, Chief Technology Officer at ElevateBio BaseCamp. The nine-system framework proactively confirms our commercial manufacturing readiness across capabilities that satisfy and expand upon standard regulatory requirements. This certification across cell therapy, viral vector, and mRNA modalities underscores our unique capability to support a diverse range of advanced genetic medicine technologies and demonstrates our readiness to seamlessly scale manufacturing from clinical through commercial stages, enabling our partners to accelerate their path to market without manufacturing disruptions.

ICMC Certification Criteria: Nine Systems for Commercial Manufacturing Readiness

The ICMC certification program provides independent, third-party verification of manufacturing capabilities in the cell and gene therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) market to enable therapeutic developers to make informed manufacturing partner selections. Through this certification, the BaseCamp Waltham process development and cGMP manufacturing facility has demonstrated proficiency across nine critical systems:

Service Business System : Ensures reliable partnership and project management and seamless knowledge/technology transfer into a GMP environment, including a review of the Person in Plant framework and business continuity response plans, critical for therapeutic developers navigating complex manufacturing partnerships

: Ensures reliable partnership and project management and seamless knowledge/technology transfer into a GMP environment, including a review of the Person in Plant framework and business continuity response plans, critical for therapeutic developers navigating complex manufacturing partnerships Quality System : Provides rigorous quality system framework that reduces approval risks, ensures compliance, and accelerates time-to-market for advanced therapies

: Provides rigorous quality system framework that reduces approval risks, ensures compliance, and accelerates time-to-market for advanced therapies Digital System : Delivers data integrity and cybersecurity, essential for protecting intellectual property and meeting stringent regulatory data handling requirements

: Delivers data integrity and cybersecurity, essential for protecting intellectual property and meeting stringent regulatory data handling requirements Facilities and Equipment System : Ensures controlled manufacturing environments specifically designed for advanced therapies. Demonstrates cross contamination control

: Ensures controlled manufacturing environments specifically designed for advanced therapies. Demonstrates cross contamination control Materials System : Enables reliable supply chain management of inventory, from procurement through testing, release, and storage: critical for therapies dependent on precisely-specified starting materials

: Enables reliable supply chain management of inventory, from procurement through testing, release, and storage: critical for therapies dependent on precisely-specified starting materials Production System : Ensures consistent, reproducible manufacturing processes essential for therapeutic efficacy and safety across clinical and commercial scales. Verifies that products can be produced aseptically.

: Ensures consistent, reproducible manufacturing processes essential for therapeutic efficacy and safety across clinical and commercial scales. Verifies that products can be produced aseptically. Packaging and Labeling System : Maintains product identity and chain of custody throughout the manufacturing process.

: Maintains product identity and chain of custody throughout the manufacturing process. Laboratory Control System : Provides reliable testing and verification methods critical for quality release decisions and regulatory submissions, from initial transfer through qualification and validation

: Provides reliable testing and verification methods critical for quality release decisions and regulatory submissions, from initial transfer through qualification and validation Commercial Readiness: Establishes manufacturing scale-up capabilities and process validation protocols required for successful transition from clinical to commercial production





The independent certification process employed regulatory-grade methodologies over several weeks, including multiple days of on-site verification and interviews, covering hundreds of documents. Importantly, these global quality systems in place set a strong foundation for commercial readiness at ElevateBios BaseCamp Pittsburgh facility, which is under construction at Hazelwood Green and is expected to be operational in 2027.

Certification from Leading Cell and Gene Therapy CDMO Consulting Group

Dark Horse Consulting brings proven industry expertise to the ICMC certification process, having performed more than 60 cell and gene therapy CDMO selection projects and over 50 regulatory-style audits in the past four years. DHC's evaluation team includes former regulatory officials who apply the same rigorous standards used in official regulatory inspections, ensuring ICMC certification provides a meaningful audit of manufacturing capabilities.

"ElevateBio BaseCamp's ICMC certification demonstrates exactly the kind of comprehensive manufacturing capabilities that therapeutic developers need in order to reduce regulatory risk and accelerate their timelines," said Anthony Davies, Founder and CEO at Dark Horse Consulting. "Partners working with ElevateBio BaseCamp can expect standardized, reproducible manufacturing practices that have been rigorously evaluated against industry requirements, to ensure quality, compliance, and adherence to regulatory standards. This certification provides therapeutic developers with increased probability of technical success through verified manufacturing excellence."

About ElevateBio

ElevateBio is a technology-driven company built to power transformative genetic medicines today and for many decades to come. The Company applies its enabling technologies, manufacturing capabilities, and industry-leading expertise through partnerships to accelerate development across a breadth of therapeutic approaches and modalities. The ElevateBio ecosystem combines Life Edit, its gene editing and R&D technology business, with BaseCamp, its end-to-end genetic medicine cGMP manufacturing and process development business, to accelerate the discovery and development of advanced therapeutics.

ElevateBio aims to be the dominant engine inside the worlds greatest scientific advancements harnessing human cells and genes to alter disease. For more, visit www.elevate.bio or follow ElevateBio on LinkedIn or X.

Investor contact:

Catherine Hu

chu@elevate.bio



Media contact:

DJ Webster

dwebster@elevate.bio
TORONTO, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Base Carbon Inc. (Cboe CA: BCBN) (OTCQX: BCBNF) with operations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Base Carbon Capital Partners Corp. (BCCPC, together, with affiliates, Base Carbon, or the Company), is pleased to announce its second-quarter 2025 consolidated financial results and operational highlights. The Company will host an investor town hall in September, with details to follow over the coming weeks. All financial references are denominated in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted.

Company Highlights:

5 th consecutive quarter of carbon credit sales revenue with net cash proceeds of $1.0 million from Vietnam cookstove carbon credit monetization.





Subsequent to quarter end, the Company received into inventory 192,810 carbon credits from the Rwanda cookstoves project, increasing inventory by 11.2% to the current balance of 1,905,003 Article 6 Authorized labelled carbon credits.





Subsequent to quarter end, a further 371,272 carbon credits were issued to local project partner, the DelAgua Group, which will be subject to the revenue sharing arrangement with the Company.





In May 2025, the DelAgua Group submitted a requantification request to Verra for the Rwanda cookstoves project which, upon approval, would requantify all carbon credits issued by the Rwanda cookstoves project (including current inventory and future issuances) to the CORSIA-approved VM0050 methodology.





The Company renewed its normal course issuer bid during the second quarter and, year-to-date, has repurchased approximately 6 million shares through the NCIB program and share purchase agreements at an average price of C$0.49 per share 1 .





The Company ended the second quarter with total assets of $111.0 million, including $10.4 million in cash and cash equivalents, and a $25.6 million carbon credit inventory.





Financial Highlights:

(in thousands of United States Dollars except per-share figures) Three months ended June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 Realized cash settled gains on investments in carbon credit projects $ 1,022 $ 12,508 Total operating expenses (1,765 ) (2,537 ) Operating income (loss) for the period (743 ) 9,971 Unrealized gains (losses) on investments in carbon credit projects 1,182 (1,838 ) Loss on investments at fair value - (350 ) Income tax expense (288 ) (332 ) Comprehensive income for the period 239 7,470 Basic income per share 0.00 0.06 Diluted income per share $ 0.00 $ 0.06





(in thousands of United States Dollars) June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Total assets $ 110,969 $ 112,068 Total liabilities 8,802 9,059 Total shareholders equity 102,167 103,008 Breakdown of key assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 10,425 $ 14,799 Carbon credit inventory 25,633 25,633 Current investment in carbon credit projects 11,550 8,816 Non-current investment in carbon credit projects 61,096 61,068



Vietnam Household Devices Project

During the three months ended June 30, 2025, the Company received $1,021,522 in net cash proceeds from project off-taker Citigroup associated with the delivery and monetization of the latest cookstove carbon credit issuance. During Q2 2025, an unrealized gain of $897,174 was also recognized on the project, resulting from the unwinding of the discount rate relative to the time value of money.

As at June 30, 2025, local project partner Sustainability Investment Promotion and Development Joint Stock Company (SIPCO) had delivered an aggregate total of 7.4 million credits to BCCPC, which completed Phase 1 of the Vietnam household devices project. The project now enters Phase 2, where BCCPC has the option to purchase all further carbon credits generated by the project on a yearly basis for $5 per carbon credit.

Since the inception of the project, and as of June 30, 2025, the Company has received aggregate cash proceeds of approximately $36.3 million from the sale of Vietnam carbon credits. To date, the project has fully returned its capital investment as well as generated a cash gain of approximately $15.4 million.

Following the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) October 2024 announcement on eligible methodologies under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), and in light of positive market feedback regarding the updated VM0050 methodology, the Company and SIPCO have agreed to apply Verras new methodology to the cookstove component of the Vietnam household devices project.

Rwanda Cookstoves Project

During the three months ended June 30, 2025, an unrealized gain of $284,586 was recognized on the project, resulting from the unwinding of the project discount rate of 15%, relative to the time value of money.

In-country development partner, the DelAgua Group, has progressed its work to apply Verras new VM0050 methodology to the project. During May 2025, the requantification request was submitted to Verra, which would move all credits from the current VMR0006 methodology to the new VM0050 methodology, including current Base Carbon inventory and future project issuances. Management anticipates that carbon credits held in inventory, following conversion to VM0050, as well as future carbon credit issuances from the project will be eligible for delivery into compliance programs such as CORSIA, and should benefit from the premium pricing typically associated with CORSIA-eligible units.

Subsequent to quarter end, the Company received into inventory 192,810 Article 6 Authorized labelled carbon credits from the Rwanda cookstoves project. Additionally, a further 371,272 carbon credits were issued to the DelAgua Group which will be subject to the revenue sharing arrangement with the Company.

India Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) Project

During Q2 2025, the India ARR project was submitted for validation to Verra by in-country project partner Value Network Ventures Pte. Ltd. (VNV). Base Carbon expects the first issuance of carbon credits associated with the India ARR project to occur in the first half of 2026.

As previously disclosed, VNV completed planting of 6,500,000 trees. The realized mortality rate of the planted trees falls within the Companys expected and underwritten mortality range. Pursuant to the agreement, VNV is contractually obligated to replace any tree mortalities to ensure a maintained standing stock of a minimum of 6,500,000 trees.

Pipeline

The Company is actively assessing capital deployments which, in addition to generating carbon credits, produce a commercial product. These near-carbon environmental industrials may include, but are not limited to, biochar, agroforestry, direct air capture or other types of projects.

Consistent with our strategic focus and extensive underwriting and diligence to date, the Company continues to assess highly executable, high-quality, and high-integrity capital commitments with offtake arrangements that are in, or near, production. Recent legislative and regulatory shifts in North America have had material bearing on the market for North American-based biochar, reinforcing the Companys continued engagement in carefully assessing accretive opportunities in this space. The Company remains disciplined in its approach, with plans to limit capital commitments to opportunities that are prudently underwritable and demonstrably value-accretive to its shareholders.

Investor Town Hall

The Company plans to hold an Investor Town Hall in September where management will provide a business update and respond to investor questions via Zoom Webinar. Further details regarding the date and time as well as registration information will follow in the coming weeks.

About Base Carbon

Base Carbon is a financier of projects involved primarily in the global voluntary carbon markets. We endeavor to be the preferred carbon project partner in providing capital and management resources to carbon removal and abatement projects globally and, where appropriate, will utilize technologies within the evolving environmental industries to enhance efficiencies, commercial credibility, and trading transparency. For more information, please visit www.basecarbon.com.

Media and Investor Inquiries

Base Carbon Inc.

Investor Relations

Tel: +1 647 952 3979

E-mail: investorrelations@basecarbon.com

Media Inquiries

E-mail: media@basecarbon.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the focus of Base Carbons business, the expected issuance, and timing, of carbon credits, the application of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and the Article 6 Authorized label and market reaction thereto, the receipt of proceeds from the disposition of carbon credits or revenue sharing arrangements, the implementation of the CORSIA framework and timing of eligibility and participation of carbon credits and carbon credit methodologies thereunder, the market demand and price of CORSIA eligible carbon credits, and the timing of project registration and first carbon credit issuance of the India afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation project. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as expects, anticipates, intends, contemplates, believes, projects, plans or variations of such words and similar expressions or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might, will or will be taken, occur or be achieved. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent managements expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance, results, or achievements.

Although management believes that the anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information because it involves assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

In respect of the Rwanda cookstoves project and the Vietnam household devices project, certain factors that influence the commercial success of such projects, including the timing and number of expected carbon credits, include among other things: (i) the Company has retained industry leading experts/consultants/advisors to assist with the evaluation, planning, negotiation and execution of such projects, (ii) the work product, including monitoring reports, of each projects validation and verification body, (iii) project carbon credit market prices, (iv) the verification of ongoing project monitoring reports and issuance of carbon credits by Verra, (v) changes to laws, regulation or policies in applicable jurisdictions, and (vi) the Company has sufficient funds on hand to make any required carbon credit purchase price payments.



In respect of the Rwanda cookstoves project and the Vietnam household devices project, certain assumptions that influence the commercial success of such projects, including the timing and number of expected carbon credits, include among other things: (i) distributed cookstoves and water purifiers perform to specification when used and participating households use the devices as contemplated by project estimates, (ii) the Companys in-country project partners, being the DelAgua Group in the case of the Rwanda cookstoves project and SIPCO and the project offtaker in the case of the Vietnam household devices project, perform their obligations in connection with the development and operation of the projects, (iii) there is no further changes in the project methodologies used by the applicable carbon credit registry or otherwise adopted by project proponents which results in less carbon credits being issuable, (iv) positive market recognition of the attributes linked to the Companys carbon credits (such as project methodologies and changes thereto) and acceptance of such carbon credits by emissions trading schemes or compliance programs such as CORSIA, and (v) continued participant involvement and public support, including that of applicable governmental authorities, of the voluntary carbon market.

In respect of the India afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation project, certain factors that influence the commercial success of the project include, among other things: (i) the Companys expertise with respect to the evaluation, planning and negotiation of the project, (ii) the conduct of the project counterparties, including cooperation with local small-land owners, (iii) project costs and carbon credit market prices, (iv) ongoing project monitoring and issuance of carbon credits by Verra, (v) changes to laws and regulation in the Republic of India, and (vi) extreme weather event and natural disasters.

In respect of the India afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation project, certain assumptions that influence the commercial success of the project include, among other things: (i) the development of the project remains in line with anticipated timelines and costs, (ii) project counterparties, including project partner Value Network Ventures Pte. Ltd., its subcontractors and local small-land owners, perform their contractual and/or standard operating procedures, (iii) the survival of trees, (iv) the successful project validation and registration by Verra, (v) the waiver of any carbon credit ownership rights by local project participants, (vi) the growth rates of trees are consistent with the expectations under the project which is then reflected by monitoring reports accepted by Verra, (vii) the Company has sufficient funds to satisfy its capital commitments, (viii) over the life of the project, there is no change to the project methodology which results in less carbon credits being issuable from the operation of such project, and (ix) continued participant involvement and public support of the voluntary carbon market.

The forward-looking statements made herein are subject to a variety of risk factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual events or results to differ materially and adversely from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Specific reference is made to the managements discussion and analysis for the Companys quarter ended June 30, 2025 and the most recent Annual Information Form on file with the Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities (and available on www.sedarplus.ca) for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect the Companys ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Should one or more of the risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual events or results may vary materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is provided as of the date of this press release, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements containing any forward-looking information, or the factors or assumptions underlying them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

1 Average purchase price of US$0.36 per share using the Bank of Canada daily exchange rate on August 12, 2025.
TORONTO, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Altus Group Limited (Altus Group or the Company) (TSX: AIF) issued a statement in response to recent media reports concerning a potential transaction involving the Company.

While the Company has a policy not to comment on market rumours, it acknowledges a speculative recent media article.

Altus Group periodically undertakes a strategic review to maximize stakeholder value. The Company is in the process of a review which includes but is not limited to acquisitions, divestitures, and a sale or merger of the Company.

The Companys board of directors is committed to acting in the best interests of the Company and its stakeholders.

It is important to note that a review process may not result in any particular course of action. The Company does not intend to issue or disclose developments with respect to any of the above matters except as required under its regulatory obligations.

About Altus Group

Altus connects data, analytics, applications and expertise to deliver the intelligence necessary to drive optimal CRE performance. The industrys top leaders rely on our market-leading solutions and expertise to power performance and mitigate risk. Our global team of ~2,000 experts are making a lasting impact on an industry undergoing unprecedented change  helping shape the cities where we live, work, and build thriving communities. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit www.altusgroup.com.

Forward-looking Information

Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All information contained in this press release, other than statements of current and historical fact, is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements relating to a potential transaction involving the Company and the Companys ongoing strategic review (including actions in relation thereto or results thereof). Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by use of words such as may, will, expect, believe, anticipate, estimate, intend, plan, would, could, should, continue, goal, objective, remain and other similar terminology.

Forward-looking information is not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking information is based on, among other things, opinions, assumptions, estimates and analyses that, while considered reasonable by us at the date the forward-looking information is provided, inherently are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors that may not be known and may cause actual results, performance or achievements, industry results or events to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Those risks include, but are not limited to, that the strategic review process may not result in a transaction or alternative course of action on suitable terms, or at all, as well as risks described in our annual publicly filed documents, including the Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024 (which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca).

Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information as a prediction of actual results. The forward-looking information reflects management's current expectations and beliefs regarding future events and operating performance and is based on information currently available to management. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information contained herein, there are other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained herein is current as of the date of this press release and, except as required under applicable law, we do not undertake to update or revise it to reflect new events or circumstances. Additionally, we undertake no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of Altus Group, our financial or operating results, or our securities.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Latin Metals Inc. ("Latin Metals" or the "Company") - (TSXV: LMS) (OTCQB: LMSQF) is pleased to announce that its 100% owned subsidiary Zafiro Mining S.A.C. has acquired additional mineral rights contiguous to the Para copper project ("Para" or the "Project") in southern Peru. This acquisition expands the Project to the south and secures coverage over key drill targets (Figures 1 and 2).

Key Takeaways:

New Land Secured: Strategic acquisition of 300 hectares completes consolidation of 100%-owned Para Project

Strategic acquisition of 300 hectares completes consolidation of 100%-owned Para Project Drill Targets Defined: Multiple walk-up porphyry copper targets identified

Multiple walk-up porphyry copper targets identified Next Step Permitting: Drill permit process will start; Latin Metals is seeking an option partner to fund and operate

Drill permit process will start; Latin Metals is seeking an option partner to fund and operate Tier-1 Location: Para is situated in Perus Coastal Copper Belt with access to infrastructure and port facilities

Para is situated in Perus Coastal Copper Belt with access to infrastructure and port facilities Low-Cost Acquisition: New claim acquired for US$20,000 with no royalty obligations



Exploration data collected by Latin Metals, combined with historic data purchased from Vale Exploration Peru S.A.C. ("Vale") (previous news release NR25-02, dated February 10, 2025), a wholly owned subsidiary of Vale Canada Limited, has been instrumental in defining multiple high-priority drill targets across the Para Project (Figures 1, 2, and 3). Vale previously completed target definition and secured drill permits but never conducted drilling.

Our exploration team initially identified the Para project in 2023 through analysis of regional geochemical data, stated Keith Henderson, President and CEO. The integration of Vales comprehensive exploration data has allowed us to define clear porphyry-style drill targets. This new acquisition finalizes the consolidation of a high-quality, 100%-owned land position. We plan to initiate drill permitting shortly and are actively seeking a partner to fund and advance the project.





Figure 1: Results of Latin Metals geochemical talus sampling survey showing favorable chemical zonation interpreted as centering on a porphyry system. Proximal and coincident copper and molybdenum anomalies are interpreted to overlie a porphyry system, and coincident zinc and lead anomalies are distal, surrounding the core copper-molybdenum anomalies. This pattern is typical of porphyry systems. New property acquisition shown.





Figure 2: Left. Geological mapping completed by Vale together with outlines of Vales geophysical Induced Polarization and Magnetic surveys. Right. Map combining results of geochemical rock sampling completed by Latin Metals and Vale. The cross-section A-B references Figure 3. New property acquisition shown.

Acquisition Details

The newly acquired 300-hectare claim lies directly south of the current Para property (Figures 1 and 2). It was purchased for US$20,000 in cash and is held 100% by Latin Metals, with no underlying royalties.

Project History

The Para Copper Project was previously explored by Vale Exploration Peru S.A.C. between 2013 and 2017. During this time, Vale conducted extensive groundwork, including geological mapping, collection of 282 geochemical rock samples, and completion of 18 line-kilometers of Induced Polarization (IP) geophysics, along with 44 line-kilometers of ground magnetic and radiometric surveys. Vale identified four priority drill targets totaling approximately 2,500 meters and secured a drill permit for the proposed program; however, no drilling was completed. Latin Metals acquired the project in 2023 and has since validated and expanded on Vales work through its own systematic geochemical sampling and interpretation, confirming the presence of multiple porphyry-style targets.





Figure 3: Cross section A-B. Drill holes shown were historically proposed and permitted by Vale but never drilled. Low magnetic susceptibility is interpreted as Phyllic alteration. High chargeability anomalies are interpreted to represent disseminated sulphide associated with a porphyry system. High resistivity is interpreted to result from silica within altered rocks. See Figure 2 for location of section.

Para Copper Project Background

The Para Copper Project is situated within Perus Coastal Copper Belt. This belt hosts several major deposits, and is known for its favorable geology, including porphyry copper systems. The region also offers exceptional infrastructure - with highway access, nearby power lines, and proximity to Pacific ports - making it highly attractive for exploration and potential mine development. Para now spans 2,200 hectares and is 100%-owned by Latin Metals.

QA/QC

The work program at Latin Metals' Para project was designed and supervised by Eduardo Leon, the Company's Vice President of Exploration, who oversees all aspects of operations, including quality control and quality assurance (QC/QA). A total of 208 talus samples were collected from 40 cm  40 cm sampling areas, with a spacing of approximately 300350 meters across the property. On-site personnel meticulously collected and tracked the samples, which were then securely sealed. The first batch of 56 samples was shipped to ALS Laboratory in Lima for multi-element analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), adhering to industry standards. The second batch of 152 samples was analyzed on-site using an Olympus Vanta C pXRF device. The gridded talus data integrates results from both surveys.

Data purchased from Vale was collected by Vale and was not supervised by Latin Metals staff. The data includes typical and appropriate geochemical quality control data including blanks, duplicates and standards. Geophysical data was collected and interpreted by third party contractors retained by Vale and appropriate quality control was utilized.

Qualified Person

Eduardo Leon, QP, is the Company's qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release. He has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Leon is not independent of the Company, as he is an officer of the Company and holds securities of the Company.

About Latin Metals

Latin Metals Inc. is a copper, gold and silver exploration company operating in Peru and Argentina under a prospect generator model, minimizing risk and dilution while maximizing discovery potential. With 18 projects, the company secures option agreements with major mining companies to fund exploration. This approach provides early-stage exposure to high-value mineral assets.

Vale Data Purchase Agreement

Under the terms of a data purchase agreement, Vale delivered a comprehensive package of exploration data covering Latin Metals 100%-owned Para copper project (Para) and extending to the surrounding area. As consideration for the exploration data, the Company granted a time-limited Right of First Offer to Vale, which will become valid on completion of a prefeasibility study and expire in 2035.

Stay Connected

Follow Latin Metals on YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram to stay informed on our latest developments, exploration updates, and corporate news.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

LATIN METALS INC.

Keith Henderson

President & CEO

For further details on the Company, readers are referred to the Company's web site ( www.latin-metals.com ) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

For further information, please contact:

Keith Henderson

Suite 890 - 999 West Hastings Street,

Vancouver, BC, V6C 2W2

E-mail: info@latin-metals.com

Elyssia Patterson, VP Investor Relations

Email: elyssia@latin-metals.com

Phone: 778-683-4324

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 news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, the anticipated content, commencement, timing and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Property and otherwise, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, and the Company's expectation that it will be able to enter into agreements to acquire interests in additional mineral properties, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves on the Properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious and base metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Companys Argentine projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Company projects, and the Companys ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities at the Properties, including the geological mapping, prospecting and sampling programs being proposed for the Properties (the "Programs"), actual results of exploration activities, including the Programs, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, the availability of a sufficient supply of water and other materials, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals and copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, any current or future property acquisitions, financing or other planned activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, hedging practices, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading as well as those factors discussed under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys annual managements discussion and analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Companys profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05560542-d1f1-4b8f-abb7-397ffb387523



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/01e907c4-3cc8-4c6f-a8ef-0d8f330b499a



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94d8c435-a76a-4ac9-93f8-4976dc7da6ca
Dublin, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Mexico Microcarrier Market to Reach US$ 77.65 Million by 2033 - 7.66% CAGR Growth Driven by Biopharma Demand" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Mexico Microcarrier Market is expected to reach US$ 77.65 million by 2033 from US$ 39.96 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 7.66% from 2025 to 2033.

Growing investment in regenerative medicine and cell therapy, growing demand for cell-based vaccines and biologics, technological advancements in culture efficiency, and expansion of biopharmaceutical research and development in Mexico.





Mexico's growing biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries depend heavily on the microcarrier industry. The large-scale manufacturing of biologics, vaccines, and cell treatments depends on microcarriers, which are tiny, spherical particles that promote the proliferation of adherent cells in bioreactors. As Mexico looks to improve its local manufacturing capabilities in response to growing healthcare demands and the need for medical product self-sufficiency, these applications become more and more pertinent.



The market is expanding due to a number of causes. Research and development expenditures, along with the nation's strategic efforts to strengthen its biomanufacturing infrastructure, are essential. The need for effective cell culture systems is further fueled by the aging population and the rising incidence of chronic diseases, which increase demand for cutting-edge treatment solutions. Additionally, Mexico has easier access to cutting-edge biotechnologies, such as microcarrier-based cell culture systems, thanks to its involvement in international health programs and collaborations with foreign organizations.



Notwithstanding the encouraging growth trajectory, the Mexican microcarrier market still confronts obstacles including the requirement for specialized technological know-how and the development of strong regulatory frameworks to guarantee the quality and safety of the products. Nonetheless, these difficulties offer chances for creativity and cooperation. These problems can be resolved by creating training initiatives, establishing regulatory guidelines, and encouraging public-private partnerships. This will create an atmosphere that is favorable for the expansion of the microcarrier market and the larger biopharmaceutical sector in Mexico.



Key Factors Driving the Mexico Microcarrier Market Growth

Increasing Demand for Cell Therapy and Biopharmaceuticals



Microcarrier systems are in high demand due to Mexico's growing biopharmaceutical industry, which includes the manufacture of vaccines, biologics, and cell treatments. Businesses are depending more and more on microcarriers to sustain high density adherent cell cultures in bioreactors as local R&D becomes more intense and manufacturing capacity increases.



This need is particularly noticeable in the creation of therapeutic proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and items related to regenerative medicine. Scalable and effective cell culture is made possible by microcarriers, which is necessary for the commercial production of biologics and sophisticated therapeutics.



Microcarrier-based cell culture systems are now a vital enabling technology for Mexico's biomanufacturing efforts as the nation develops its capacities in these fields and aligns with international health goals.



Infrastructure Development and Manufacturing Expansion



Mexico's bioprocessing infrastructure is being quickly strengthened through government sponsored initiatives and strategic public-private partnerships. The adoption of effective cell culture technologies is being fueled by investments in upstream bioprocessing facilities, automation, single use systems, and digital technology integration.



Innovation is also supported by the growth of industry academia partnership and regulatory modernization (e.g., COFEPRIS's digital transformation). These advancements promote easier technology transfer from research to production and improve the technical preparedness required for microcarrier applications.



Mexico is therefore better able to scale complex bioprocesses, which increases the accessibility of microcarriers for biotechnology companies, contract manufacturers, and academic institutions seeking to increase their capacity for production.



Innovation and Technological Progress in Microcarriers



Performance and scalability have been greatly enhanced by innovations in microcarrier design, such as surface functionalized beads, biodegradable materials, and compatibility with single use bioreactors. Manufacturers who prioritize quality and cost effectiveness are placing a greater value on enhanced features like increased yield, better cell adhesion, and lower contamination risks.



These developments, when combined with automation, intelligent sensor integration, and digital process control, reduce human error and streamline production. Modern microcarrier formats are becoming feasible choices for biomanufacturers and researchers nation wide due to Mexico's rising alignment with international industry trends and the country's expanding adoption of state of the art bioprocessing infrastructure.



Challenges in the Mexico Microcarrier Market

Expensive Startup and Ongoing Costs



Microcarrier based cell culture system deployment requires a large financial outlay, especially for equipment such as bioreactors, single use systems, and associated infrastructure. Traditional planar culture techniques are still less expensive at lower scales because they require less setup.



Consumables like microcarrier beads make up a significant portion of the continuous expenses for microcarrier setups, which frequently require tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in capital expenditure. GMP grade, high quality microcarriers can account for 20-25% of total consumable costs.



These financial barriers, in addition to media supplies and labor training, make the technology hard to adopt in Mexico, where a large number of biotech companies and academic institutions have tight budgets. Despite the long term productivity and efficiency benefits of microcarriers, this hinders scale up.



Complexity of Regulations and Documentation Needs



Under the General Health Law, COFEPRIS is in charge of regulating microcarrier based cell culture in Mexico, particularly when it is meant for clinical or therapeutic applications. In accordance with ICH guidelines, businesses are required to compile comprehensive Common Technical Document (CTD) dossiers that include clinical, non clinical, and quality data.



It is necessary to adhere to Official Mexican Standards (such as NOM?257?SSA1?2014, NOM?059?SSA1?2015), especially those that deal with GMP, bio comparability, and safety assessment. Microcarrier systems need to be thoroughly validated, which includes testing for batch uniformity, sterility, and cell material interactions.



Significant obstacles to commercialization include the burden of complicated documentation and testing, changing regulations, and unclear advanced therapeutic standards. Market access may be delayed, more expensive, and unclear for entities without local regulatory partnerships or past dossier experience.

Company Analysis: Overview, Key Persons, Recent Developments, SWOT Analysis, Revenue Analysis

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Merck KGaA

Eppendorf AG

Danaher Corporation

Sartorius AG

Bio Rad Laboratories, Inc.

Corning Inc.

Lonza Group

Getinge

Becton, Dickinson and Company

Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $39.96 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $77.65 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.6% Regions Covered Mexico





Key Topics Covered:



1. Introduction



2. Research & Methodology

2.1 Data Source

2.1.1 Primary Sources

2.1.2 Secondary Sources

2.2 Research Approach

2.2.1 Top-Down Approach

2.2.2 Bottom-Up Approach

2.3 Forecast Projection Methodology



3. Executive Summary



4. Market Dynamics

4.1 Growth Drivers

4.2 Challenges



5. Mexico Microcarrier Market

5.1 Historical Market Trends

5.2 Market Forecast



6. Market Share Analysis

6.1 By Product Type

6.2 By Application

6.3 By End User

6.4 By Region



7. Product Type

7.1 Consumables

7.1.1 Microcarrier Beads

7.1.2 Media & Reagents

7.2 Equipment



8. Application

8.1 Cell Therapy

8.1.1 Market Analysis

8.1.2 Market Size & Forecast

8.2 Vaccine Manufacturing

8.3 Others



9. End User

9.1 Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies

9.2 Contract Research Organizations & Contract Manufacturing Organizations

9.3 Academic & Research Institutes



10. Region

10.1 Northern Mexico

10.2 Central Mexico

10.3 Southern Mexico

10.4 Others



11. Value Chain Analysis



12. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

12.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers

12.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

12.3 Degree of Competition

12.4 Threat of New Entrants

12.5 Threat of Substitutes



13. SWOT Analysis

13.1 Strength

13.2 Weakness

13.3 Opportunity

13.4 Threats



14. Pricing Benchmark Analysis

14.1 Thermo Fisher Scientific

14.2 Merck KGaA

14.3 Eppendorf AG

14.4 Danaher Corporation

14.5 Sartorius AG

14.6 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

14.7 Corning Inc.

14.8 Lonza Group

14.9 Getinge

14.10 Becton, Dickinson and Company



15. Key Players Analysis

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/2u4vp6

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
TORONTO, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This summer, Hong Kong is going into cuteness overload with a citywide celebration marking the first birthday of its beloved panda twins: Jia Jia and De De! Born to giant panda parents Ying Ying and Le Le  longtime residents of Ocean Park, Hong Kongs iconic nature-themed resort destination  on August 15, 2024, the twins have quickly captured hearts worldwide.

Panda lovers everywhere are invited to join the fun, with a special birthday-edition LABUBU x Panda Twins vinyl toy, special events at Ocean Park, and photogenic panda-themed displays across the city.

A Birthday Surprise: A Special Birthday-edition LABUBU x Panda Twins Vinyl Toy, Unveiled

To celebrate the panda twins upcoming birthday, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and Ocean Park have teamed up with the monster-elfs creator, artist and author Kasing Lung, to create a special birthday-edition LABUBU x Panda Twins vinyl toy. The design features a bamboo-inspired green LABUBU wearing a polka-dotted birthday hat and holding the adorable panda twins. Moreover, it comes packaged in a custom gift box with a handcrafted birthday card from Kasing.

I am delighted to collaborate with the HKTB and design this Panda Twins birthday special edition of LABUBU to share Hong Kongs joyful energy with fans worldwide, and to play a part in promoting our city, said Kasing.

Starting July 25 onwards, all Ocean Park Hong Kong visitors  both locals and travellers  can pre-register on the event website (https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en/park-experience/labubu-panda-twins-lucky-draw) to join the lucky draw at the Park from August 1 to 31 for a chance to win one of approximately 300 birthday gift boxes, each containing the birthday-edition LABUBU and a commemorative birthday card. Additional gift boxes will be available during the birthday celebrations from August 15 to 17.

Trade Promotion Competition Licence No.: 60184-60369 (Only applicable to lucky draw).

A Summer of Birthday Fun at Ocean Park

As the home of the panda twins, Ocean Park will be the heart of the celebrations! This summer, Ocean Park has teamed up with LINE FRIENDS characters to present the Panda Friends Summer Splash  a memorable mix of whimsical photo spots, water adventures and interactive games. Guests can dive into the Ball Pit Party, cool off at the Panda Friends Splash Playground or go all-in at the Water Battle Zone. Across the Park, youll find pop-up panda games, surprise giveaways like panda badges and party hats, and Instagrammable moments galore.



Starting in August, the Park comes alive with vibrant Panda Friends decorations and panda graphics skillfully painted by water-gun artists. Nightfall brings the Gala of Lights  Panda Birthday Edition, featuring dazzling projections, dancing fountains, and celebratory music. Park visitors may receive delightful surprise gifts when visiting the Park from August 15 to 17, adding an extra layer of excitement to their visit.



Top it all off with themed snacks, exclusive merchandise  including Jia Jia and De De plushies in kindergarten uniforms  and special offers, like the Twin Park Package Ticket, which includes access to both Ocean Park and Water World within seven days.

Follow the Panda Trail Across Hong Kong

The panda party doesnt stop at Ocean Park  its taking over the entire city! Creative tributes to the panda twins can be spotted around every corner, from panda-themed MTR station takeovers to 32 panda-ified road signs.

If youre a panda lover, this is one birthday celebration you wont want to miss. Join the fun across Hong Kong  and enter for your chance to win a special birthday-edition LABUBU x Panda Twins collectable in our birthday lucky draw.

Visit the Discover Hong Kong Panda Website now for everything you need to plan your next trip to Hong Kong.

Media Snippet

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

Media can download photos at the following link:

https://assetlibrary.hktb.com/assetbank-hktb/action/browseItems?categoryId=2101&categoryTypeId=2&cachedCriteria=1

For media inquiries, please contact:
NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Western Asset Management Company, LLC (WAMCO), Franklin Resources, Inc., and Stephen Kenneth Leech, II (Leech) (together, the Defendants), on behalf of investors in the shares 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). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

The class action concerns whether the Defendants have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

You have until September 2, 2025, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired the securities described above during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com .

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

A class action complaint has been filed, alleging that, during 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; and (4) 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.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com .

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Gatineau, QC, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The financial technology market in 2025 is undergoing rapid transformation as artificial intelligence becomes central to modern trading strategies. At the forefront of this shift is RovonixFlex 2.1 AI , a next-generation AI-based trading platform designed to help traders navigate increasingly complex and volatile markets with both confidence and precision. Built with a blend of adaptive intelligence, robust security measures, and profitability-focused tools, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI has been gaining traction among professional and retail traders alike.





This latest iteration builds upon the foundation of the original RovonixFlex framework but integrates significant upgrades in both processing power and analytical depth. The platform leverages proprietary algorithms capable of analyzing high-frequency trading data, global market sentiment, and technical indicators simultaneously. Unlike conventional trading systems, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI adapts in real-time , recalibrating its decision-making engine as new data emerges. This means traders can rely on the system not only to execute trades but to optimize entry and exit points for maximum ROI.

Security is equally prioritized. The developers behind RovonixFlex 2.1 AI have incorporated enterprise-grade cybersecurity protocols to ensure that user data, strategies, and funds remain protected at all times. This includes encryption standards comparable to those used by major financial institutions and proactive monitoring systems designed to detect irregularities before they escalate.

As AI adoption in the trading sector continues to accelerate, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI positions itself as a comprehensive solution for traders who demand speed, accuracy, and security in one platform. Early reports from industry analysts suggest that platforms like RovonixFlex could set the benchmark for AI-based trading over the next decade, making its 2025 rollout a timely and strategic entry into the market.

What Is RovonixFlex 2.1 AI and How It Fits Into Modern Trading

In todays fast-moving financial markets, the margin between profit and loss can be determined in milliseconds. RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is engineered to give traders that crucial edge . As the latest release in the RovonixFlex suite, it builds on years of AI research, market modeling, and fintech innovation to create a trading environment where advanced analytics meet practical execution.

At its core, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is a multi-asset trading platform powered by adaptive intelligence. This means it does not rely solely on pre-programmed strategies  instead, it learns from every market movement, continuously refining its algorithms for greater precision over time. The system is capable of analyzing live price feeds, technical indicators, global news sentiment, and historical data in parallel. This multi-layered approach allows traders to access not just raw market data, but AI-processed insights that point toward potentially profitable opportunities.

Unlike many conventional trading applications, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is designed for seamless integration into both beginner and professional trading workflows. The platform supports automated trade execution, manual overrides, and hybrid modes where traders can selectively apply AI-driven suggestions. Its speed is notable  with the ability to process and react to new data in fractions of a second, it aims to capitalize on short-lived market fluctuations that human traders might miss.

The relevance of RovonixFlex 2.1 AI in modern trading comes down to adaptability. Market conditions can shift dramatically in response to geopolitical events, economic announcements, or sudden liquidity changes. Where static systems may fail under these circumstances, RovonixFlexs adaptive algorithms adjust in real-time, recalibrating positions and strategies to maintain optimal performance.

By combining machine learning, predictive modeling, and secure infrastructure, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is positioning itself not just as a tool, but as a trusted partner for traders aiming to navigate the complexity of todays markets with confidence and efficiency.

Visit the Official Website Here For More Information

How Does RovonixFlex Work?

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI operates by integrating artificial intelligence with real-time market data streams to automate trading decisions. Upon activation, the platform connects to multiple global exchanges and broker APIs, enabling access to a broad spectrum of financial instruments.

The core AI algorithms analyze live market inputs including price fluctuations, technical indicators, and sentiment data sourced from news and social media. These inputs are synthesized through machine learning models that identify patterns and predict price movements with statistical confidence.

Users can configure trading parameters such as asset classes, risk tolerance, trade frequency, and automation preferences. The platform offers a dual mode: fully automated execution, where the AI directly places orders, and manual mode, allowing users to approve or reject suggested trades.

Trade execution is supported by secure, low-latency API connections to partnered brokerage firms, ensuring orders are transmitted promptly and accurately. The platform also features built-in risk management tools, including adjustable stop-loss and take-profit thresholds to limit potential losses and lock in gains.

An intuitive user interface presents real-time dashboards, charts, and notifications, offering transparent monitoring of trading activities and performance metrics. Additionally, the system includes backtesting capabilities, allowing users to simulate strategy outcomes against historical data before deploying capital.

Through the fusion of AI-driven analysis, configurable controls, and seamless broker integration, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI delivers a comprehensive automated trading solution designed for both novice and experienced traders.

Open Your RovonixFlex Account Now - Only At The Official Website

How Does RovonixFlex 2.1 AI Perform in Real-Time Market Conditions?

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is engineered to operate efficiently within dynamic and fast-paced financial markets. The platform utilizes advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms that continuously analyze real-time market data across multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies, forex, equities, and commodities. This high-frequency data processing enables the system to identify trading opportunities with minimal latency, facilitating rapid execution of trades.

The AI engine scans thousands of data points per second, employing pattern recognition and predictive analytics to adapt to fluctuating market conditions. By processing live price feeds, volume trends, and technical indicators instantaneously, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI supports informed and timely trade execution. This capability is critical in volatile markets where rapid price movements demand prompt responses.

The platform supports both fully automated trading, where trades are executed without manual intervention, and semi-automated modes, which allow users to review AI-generated signals before approval. This flexibility enhances adaptability across different trading strategies and risk preferences.

Performance metrics indicate that the system maintains a trade execution latency of under 50 milliseconds, optimizing order placement during brief market windows. Backtesting and live data analyses from 2018 to 2024 demonstrate consistent trade accuracy rates exceeding 90%, affirming the systems ability to deliver reliable signals under diverse market scenarios.

Overall, RovonixFlex 2.1 AIs performance in real-time markets combines rapid data processing with intelligent adaptability, designed to meet the demands of contemporary algorithmic trading environments.

More Information on RovonixFlex 2.1 Can Be Found On The Official Website Here

RovonixFlex Key Features

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI provides a robust set of features engineered to facilitate efficient and secure automated trading:

Multi-Asset Trading: Supports a diverse range of markets including cryptocurrencies, forex, stocks, and commodities via integrated brokerage APIs.

Supports a diverse range of markets including cryptocurrencies, forex, stocks, and commodities via integrated brokerage APIs. AI-Powered Analytics: Employs machine learning to analyze live market data, sentiment, and technical indicators to generate predictive trade signals.

Employs machine learning to analyze live market data, sentiment, and technical indicators to generate predictive trade signals. Real-Time Trade Execution: Executes trades with sub-50-millisecond latency, optimizing order placement during short market windows.

Executes trades with sub-50-millisecond latency, optimizing order placement during short market windows. Configurable Automation: Offers both fully automated and semi-automated trading modes with customizable risk and trade parameters.

Offers both fully automated and semi-automated trading modes with customizable risk and trade parameters. Risk Management Tools: Includes adjustable stop-loss and take-profit settings to manage exposure and maximize profitability.

Includes adjustable stop-loss and take-profit settings to manage exposure and maximize profitability. Backtesting Module: Enables strategy simulation using historical market data for performance evaluation before live deployment.

Enables strategy simulation using historical market data for performance evaluation before live deployment. User-Friendly Interface: Features real-time dashboards, customizable alerts, and transparent reporting for comprehensive trade monitoring.

Features real-time dashboards, customizable alerts, and transparent reporting for comprehensive trade monitoring. Cross-Platform Access: Compatible with desktop and mobile devices, ensuring uninterrupted trading capabilities.

Compatible with desktop and mobile devices, ensuring uninterrupted trading capabilities. No Licensing Fees: Provides access without ongoing subscription charges, enhancing affordability.

Provides access without ongoing subscription charges, enhancing affordability. Customer Support: Offers responsive assistance via email and live chat to support user needs and inquiries.

These features collectively establish RovonixFlex 2.1 AI as a technologically advanced and versatile platform suited to automated trading requirements.





Cutting-Edge Technology Behind RovonixFlex 2.1 AI

At the core of RovonixFlex 2.1 AI lies an advanced technological framework that harnesses artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cloud computing to facilitate high-speed, high-accuracy trading decisions.

The platform employs proprietary AI models that leverage machine learning to continuously refine predictive algorithms based on real-time feedback from executed trades and evolving market dynamics. This iterative learning process enables the system to adapt quickly to changes in volatility, liquidity, and market sentiment.

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI integrates multiple data sources, including live price feeds, technical indicators, and external sentiment analysis derived from news and social media. By synthesizing these inputs, the AI generates comprehensive market assessments and trade signals within milliseconds.

The underlying infrastructure is cloud-based, ensuring scalability and resilience with minimal latency. This architecture supports simultaneous data processing and trade execution across multiple asset classes and global exchanges, ensuring rapid response to fleeting market opportunities.

Advanced order routing protocols facilitate direct API connections with regulated brokerage platforms, optimizing execution speed and reliability. The system also features configurable algorithmic parameters, allowing fine-tuning of trade frequency, asset focus, and risk thresholds.

Security-focused design elements are integrated into the technology stack, including encrypted communications and secure user authentication, maintaining the integrity of data and transactions.

RovonixFlex 2.1 AIs technology combines AI sophistication with operational robustness to support seamless and efficient automated trading operations.

Why Choose RovonixFlex 2.1 AI? Canada Consumer Report Released Here

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI  Account Registration

The registration process for RovonixFlex 2.1 AI is designed to be secure and straightforward. Prospective users initiate account creation by submitting basic personal information through an encrypted online form hosted on the official website .

Following submission, identity verification protocolsincluding email confirmation and CAPTCHA verificationensure legitimate user enrollment and prevent automated fraudulent registrations. For access to live trading functionalities, users undergo a Know Your Customer (KYC) process involving document submission to verify identity, aligning with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

Once verified, users can access a demo account to familiarize themselves with the platforms tools without financial exposure. Transitioning to a live account requires a minimum deposit, typically set at $250, which activates full trading capabilities.

The user dashboard provides immediate access to AI trading functions, risk settings, and market analytics. Registration is complemented by tutorial resources and customer support channels to facilitate smooth onboarding.

This registration framework prioritizes data security and regulatory compliance while enabling timely access to trading operations.

Security Architecture: How RovonixFlex Protects User Data and Funds

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI incorporates comprehensive security measures to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of user data and financial assets.

All data exchanges between the platform and users are protected by SSL/TLS encryption protocols, safeguarding against interception and unauthorized access. User authentication requires multi-factor authentication (MFA), adding an additional security layer to access controls.

User data is stored on servers compliant with ISO/IEC 27001 standards, featuring strict access controls, regular vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing to mitigate security risks. The platform maintains secure API connections with regulated brokerage partners, ensuring that trade orders and account information are transmitted through protected channels.

Automated real-time monitoring detects unusual activity, triggering alerts and temporary restrictions as necessary to prevent fraudulent transactions. RovonixFlex also complies with data privacy regulations including GDPR and CCPA, offering transparency regarding data handling and user rights.

Client funds are held in segregated accounts at regulated financial institutions, ensuring separation from operational funds and enhancing asset protection. Collectively, these measures form a robust security architecture designed to maintain user trust and platform integrity.





Open Your RovonixFlex 2.1 AI Account Now - Only At The Official Website

Robust Security Measures in RovonixFlex 2.1 AI

Security is a foundational pillar of the RovonixFlex 2.1 AI platform, with comprehensive measures implemented to protect user data, trading activities, and financial transactions.

All communications between users and the platform are encrypted using industry-standard SSL/TLS protocols, ensuring confidentiality and protection from data interception. User authentication incorporates multi-factor authentication (MFA) mechanisms to strengthen access control.

The platforms servers adhere to strict security standards, including ISO 27001 compliance, and undergo routine vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate potential risks.

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI maintains secure API connections with partnered brokers, ensuring that order transmission and account information remain protected throughout the trading process. The system employs real-time monitoring to detect anomalous activities, automatically triggering alerts and security responses as necessary.

Data privacy policies comply with major regulatory frameworks such as GDPR and CCPA, offering users transparency and control over their personal information.

User funds are held with regulated financial institutions or brokers subject to industry oversight, ensuring segregation and protection against misuse.

Through a layered security architecture combining encryption, authentication, regulatory compliance, and continuous monitoring, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI establishes a secure environment conducive to trustworthy and reliable trading.

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI  Fee, Payment Options, and Money Handling

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI offers a transparent financial framework aimed at simplifying account funding and management.

The platform does not impose ongoing licensing or subscription fees, reducing barriers to access. The minimum deposit to activate a live trading account generally stands at $250, serving as the initial capital for trading activities.

Supported payment methods typically include major credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and selected e-wallet services, all processed through PCI DSS-compliant payment gateways to ensure data security.

The platform accommodates deposits and withdrawals in multiple currencies, including both fiat and cryptocurrencies, contingent on regional and broker-specific availability. Withdrawal requests are generally processed within 24 to 72 hours, subject to standard verification procedures.

Client funds are maintained in segregated accounts held by regulated brokers or financial institutions, in accordance with industry best practices to protect assets. The AI trading engine incorporates risk management protocols such as stop-loss and take-profit settings to mitigate exposure.

Transaction transparency is provided via detailed account statements and real-time balance monitoring within the user interface. Dedicated customer support services assist with payment inquiries and transaction-related matters.

Final Verdict

RovonixFlex 2.1 AI represents a sophisticated automated trading platform integrating advanced artificial intelligence with secure, real-time market access. Its comprehensive features, including multi-asset support, configurable automation, and risk management tools, are engineered to address the complexities of modern financial trading.

The platforms technological foundation combines machine learning with high-frequency data analysis to facilitate rapid and precise trade execution. Security measures comply with industry standards, ensuring data privacy, asset protection, and regulatory adherence.

Performance data from extensive backtesting and live operation highlight the platforms capability to deliver consistent trade signal accuracy and effective risk controls. The registration and financial frameworks prioritize ease of use and transparency.

By delivering robust technology, extensive features, and secure infrastructure without ongoing fees, RovonixFlex 2.1 AI offers a comprehensive and reliable solution for algorithmic trading applications.

Visit Here to Register on the RovonixFlex 2.1 - Select Your Country Here!!!

Contact:-

RovonixFlex 2.1

RovonixFlex 2.1 CA Support:

485 Bd de la Gappe, Gatineau, QC J8T 5T9, Canada

Email: support@rovonixflex.com

Website: https://rovonixflex.com/

General Disclaimer:

The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are advised to consult a certified financial advisor, licensed loan officer, or legal professional before making any financial decisions. The information presented may not apply to every individual circumstance and is not intended to substitute professional judgment or regulatory guidance. The information provided on this website does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other sort of advice and you should not treat any of the website's content as such. We does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Trading Disclaimer:

Trading cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrency you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your initial investment and therefore you should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with cryptocurrency trading, and seek advice from an independent financial advisor. ICO's, IEO's, STO's and any other form of offering will not guarantee a return on your investment.

HIGH RISK WARNING: Dealing or Trading FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies is highly speculative, carries a level of non-negligible risk and may not be suitable for all investors. You may lose some or all of your invested capital, therefore you should not speculate with capital that you cannot afford to lose. Please refer to the risk disclosure below. RovonixFlex 2.1 does not gain or lose profits based on your activity and operates as a services company. RovonixFlex 2.1 is not a financial services firm and is not eligible of providing financial advice. Therefore, RovonixFlex 2.1 shall not be liable for any losses occurred via or in relation to this informational website.

SITE RISK DISCLOSURE: RovonixFlex 2.1 does not accept any liability for loss or damage as a result of reliance on the information contained within this website; this includes education material, price quotes and charts, and analysis. Please be aware of and seek professional advice for the risks associated with trading the financial markets; never invest more money than you can risk losing. The risks involved in FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies may not be suitable for all investors. RovonixFlex 2.1 doesn''t retain responsibility for any trading losses you might face as a result of using or inferring from the data hosted on this site.

LEGAL RESTRICTIONS: Without limiting the above mentioned provisions, you understand that laws regarding financial activities vary throughout the world, and it is your responsibility to make sure you properly comply with any law, regulation or guideline in your country of residence regarding the use of the Site. To avoid any doubt, the ability to access our Site does not necessarily mean that our Services and/or your activities through the Site are legal under the laws, regulations or directives relevant to your country of residence. It is against the law to solicit US individuals to buy and sell commodity options, even if they are called "prediction" contracts, unless they are listed for trading and traded on a CFTC-registered exchange unless legally exempt. The Financial Conduct Authority has issued a policy statement PS20/10, which prohibits the sale, promotion, and distribution of CFD on Crypto assets. It prohibits the dissemination of marketing materials relating to distribution of CFDs and other financial products based on

Cryptocurrencies that addressed to UK residents. The provision of trading services involving any MiFID II financial instruments is prohibited in the EU, unless when authorized/licensed by the applicable authorities and/or regulator(s). Please note that we may receive advertising fees for users opted to open an account with our partner advertisers via advertisers websites. We have placed cookies on your computer to help improve your experience when visiting this website. You can change cookie settings on your computer at any time. Use of this website indicates your acceptance of this website. Please be advised that the names depicted on our website, including but not limited to RovonixFlex 2.1, are strictly for marketing and illustrative purposes. These names do not represent or imply the existence of specific entities, service providers, or any real-life individuals. Furthermore, the pictures and/or videos presented on our website are purely promotional in nature and feature professional actors. These actors are not actual users, clients, or traders, and their depictions should not be interpreted as endorsements or representations of real-life experiences. All content is intended solely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as factual or as forming any legally binding relationship

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FUTURES TRADING

Futures transactions involve high risk. The amount of the initial margin is low compared to the value of the futures contract, so that transactions are "leveraged" or "geared". A relatively small market movement has a proportionately larger impact on the funds that you have deposited or have to pay: this can work both for you and against you. You may experience the total loss of the initial margin funds as well as any additional funds deposited in the system. If the market develops in a way that is contrary to your position or if margins are increased, you may be asked to pay significant additional funds at short notice to maintain your position. In this case it may also happen that your broker account is in the red and you thus have to make payments beyond the initial investment.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC TRADING

Before you begin carrying out transactions with an electronic system, you should carefully review the rules and provisions of the stock exchange offering the system, or of the financial instruments listed that you intend to trade, as well as your broker's conditions. Online trading has inherent risks due to system responses/reaction times and access times that may vary due to market conditions, system performance and other factors, and on which you have no influence. You should be aware of these additional risks in electronic trading before you carry out investment transactions.

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Dublin, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





The Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market was valued at USD 300.78 Million in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 536.47 Million by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 9.96%.

The Saudi Arabia crane rental market has emerged as a vital pillar supporting the Kingdom's transformation under Vision 2030. The government's strategic push for economic diversification has unleashed a wave of construction activity across sectors such as infrastructure, oil & gas, urban development, and logistics. Contractors and developers increasingly prefer crane rentals over ownership due to cost optimization, maintenance avoidance, and access to a wide variety of specialized equipment.

Mega-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Development, Qiddiya, Riyadh Metro, and numerous airport expansions are driving unprecedented demand for heavy lifting solutions. This has led to a spike in rentals of high-capacity mobile, all-terrain, and crawler cranes. Moreover, Saudi Aramco's ongoing investment in refinery upgrades, gas compression, and offshore platforms continues to fuel long-term crane leasing contracts, especially in the Eastern Province.

Mobile cranes form the backbone of the rental market due to their adaptability and high usage across mid-rise buildings, infrastructure bridges, and modular industrial sites. Tower cranes are also gaining traction with high-rise commercial developments in urban areas like Riyadh and Jeddah. In parallel, demand for overhead cranes is rising in industrial segments, especially in logistics zones, manufacturing plants, and ports.

Key Market Drivers

Rapid Expansion of Infrastructure Projects

Saudi Arabia's ongoing infrastructure transformation is one of the strongest demand drivers for crane rentals. The government has allocated over SAR 1.2 trillion (USD 0.32 trillion) for infrastructure between 2021 and 2030, which includes roads, bridges, railways, and seaports. Crane rental demand is particularly high in regions like Riyadh and Eastern Province, where multi-billion-riyal projects are underway.

The Riyadh Metro project, spanning 176 km with 85 stations, has involved over 10,000 equipment rentals, with mobile cranes forming a major share.

NEOM's Oxagon and The Line are already under development, with more than 80 tower cranes deployed across core sites in 2024.

The Ministry of Transport aims to construct over 3,000 km of new roads by 2026, directly increasing crawler and mobile crane demand.

The Jeddah Central Project and the King Salman Park in Riyadh have generated over 2,000 crane operation hours/month since 2023.

The Saudi Landbridge rail project, a 950 km line, requires high-capacity lifting cranes for bridge spans, expected to need over 200 mobile units annually through 2027.

The scale and diversity of these infrastructure investments are creating sustained long-term demand across all crane capacities and types. Rental firms are aligning fleets with project schedules and terrain conditions, leading to improved asset utilization and long-term leasing contracts.

Key Market Challenges

Equipment Availability vs. Demand Peaks

Saudi Arabia's crane rental market is subjected to erratic demand spikes driven by large infrastructure projects like NEOM and Riyadh Metro, often leading to equipment shortages at critical phases. Demand surges have created pressure when infrastructure initiatives begin simultaneously, meaning during peak periods some firms report fleet utilization exceeding 95%, while in off-peak months utilization falls below 60%. Rental firms face monthly downtime of up to 25% when projects pause or delay.

Smaller operators, with fleet sizes under 50 cranes, often cannot scale during peak periods and may have equipment idle for over two months per year, while larger players with 300-500 cranes struggle to keep replacement units ready. Responding to these fluctuations, many rental providers offer discounts of 10-20% or extend site durations by 15-30% to retain clients, but these tactics cut into operating margins. Additionally, 40-50% of requests during peak seasons remain unfulfilled due to insufficient fleet, prompting reliance on subcontractors or importing cranes temporarily. The interplay of overutilization and surplus during downtime strains profitability and operational planning.

Key Market Trends

Rise of Digital Platforms and Tech Integration in Crane Rentals

The digitalization of the construction equipment rental space is rapidly gaining ground in Saudi Arabia, with crane rental companies integrating technology-driven platforms to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and better serve clients. A standout example is the emergence of platforms like MYCRANE, the first global digital marketplace for crane rental, which recently expanded into the Kingdom. As construction stakeholders increasingly value time savings, cost optimization, and transparency, these platforms are disrupting traditional rental models and becoming critical tools in project planning and execution.

Online platforms allow contractors to instantly search for available cranes based on lifting capacity, location, project duration, and crane type. This eliminates time-consuming negotiations and ensures better utilization of idle machinery. For rental companies, it opens the door to broader market exposure, seamless client onboarding, and automated booking systems. Beyond matchmaking, digital tools are also being adopted in operations. GPS tracking, telematics, load monitoring systems, and predictive maintenance technologies are being embedded into cranes, offering real-time data on usage, wear-and-tear, and operating efficiency. These tools not only improve safety compliance but also reduce downtime, a key concern in time-bound infrastructure projects.

Additionally, remote crane monitoring enables rental companies to offer on-demand technical support, track productivity, and anticipate equipment failures. Some firms are even leveraging AI and data analytics to forecast demand, schedule fleet maintenance, and manage logistics. This tech-driven evolution reflects broader trends in Saudi Arabia's construction ecosystem, where digital transformation is being prioritized under Vision 2030. Consequently, tech-integrated crane rental services are no longer a luxury but a necessity, particularly for large contractors looking to minimize delays and optimize operational performance across multiple projects.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 88 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $300.78 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $536.47 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.9% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia



Report Scope

Key Market Players:

Arabian Machinery & Heavy Equipment Company

Bin Quraya

Al-Arabi Heavy Equipment Lease Co.

Rezayat Sparrow Arabian Crane Hire

ACT Crane & Heavy Equipment

Sarens Nass Middle East

The Crane Club

Tamimi Rentals

Fahad S. Al Tamimi & Partners

Arabian Consolidated Trading

Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market, By Crane Type:

Mobile cranes

Fixed cranes

Marine/offshore cranes

Others

Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market, By Lifting Capacity:

Up to 150 Tons

151-300 Tons

301-600 Tons

Above 600 Tons

Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market, By Application:

Construction & Infrastructure

Oil & Gas

Mining & Excavation

Others

Saudi Arabia Crane Rental Market, By Region:

Riyadh

Makkah

Madinah

Eastern Province

Asir

Tabuk

Rest of Saudi Arabia

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8qivyp

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, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





The Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market was valued at USD 0.67 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.85 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 18.45%. The market's growth is driven by the introduction of devices with advanced features catering to diverse health and wellness needs, the rise of online shopping channels, and an increasing focus on health and fitness.

As more individuals prioritize active lifestyles, the demand for wearables is growing. Fitness trackers, smart bands, and smartwatches that monitor activity levels, heart rate, sleep patterns, and other health metrics are gaining popularity. In 2023, Huawei launched the Huawei Band 8 in Saudi Arabia, featuring a 1.47-inch AMOLED display, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and over 100 workout modes. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, supports fast charging, and offers extended battery life.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Health Consciousness and Fitness Trends

One major driver is the rising health consciousness among the population. Recently, there has been a focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of wellness and preventive healthcare. Consumers are more aware of how physical activity, nutrition, and mental well-being impact health, and wearable technology offers a convenient way to monitor and improve their lifestyle. Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health-focused wearables are gaining traction as tools for tracking steps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activity.

Saudi consumers, particularly the younger and tech-savvy population, are embracing wearable devices to monitor fitness and health. With more individuals adopting regular exercise routines and health-related goals, the demand for devices that help track progress and provide actionable insights is growing. According to the 2023 'Internet Saudi Arabia' report by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission, both men and women in the country exhibit high internet usage rates, at 99.3% and 98.5% respectively. Mobile phones are the most popular internet access method, accounting for 98.9%, followed by computers at 55% and tablets at 39%.

Key Market Challenges

High Cost and Affordability Concerns

One significant challenge is the relatively high cost of many wearable devices, particularly premium models like high-end smartwatches and fitness trackers. While the market is expanding due to rising disposable incomes and interest in health and wellness, the price of wearable devices can still be a barrier for a significant portion of the population.

Premium wearables from brands like Apple, Garmin, or Samsung often come with advanced features, superior design, and high-quality materials, making them prohibitively expensive for many potential buyers, especially individuals in lower income brackets or those unwilling to invest a significant portion of their income in a tech product. Although budget-friendly options are available, top-tier devices, which offer advanced health monitoring and seamless integration with other technologies, are typically out of reach for some consumers. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's young, tech-savvy population may be reluctant to spend substantial amounts on wearables if perceived as non-essential or luxury items.

Key Market Trends

Integration with Health and Wellness

A major trend is the increasing focus on health and wellness integration. With rising health consciousness, more consumers seek wearables that offer advanced health monitoring features beyond simple fitness tracking. These include heart rate monitoring, ECG (electrocardiogram) capabilities, blood oxygen level tracking, and stress level management tools. The emphasis on health has become more pronounced due to a growing awareness of chronic diseases and preventive healthcare.

As Saudi Arabia's younger, tech-savvy population becomes more health-conscious, the demand for wearables that help track overall health and wellness is surging. The Saudi government's initiatives to improve healthcare and encourage active living under Vision 2030 have also contributed to this trend. Many wearables now serve as essential tools for managing personal health, offering real-time insights into a person's physical state. As more users adopt wearables for health monitoring, the market is seeing specialized devices developed to target specific health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.

Report Scope:

Key Market Players:

United Matbouli Group

LG Electronics Saudi Arabia Ltd

Universal Electronic Appliances LLC

Modern Electronics Co. Ltd

Alesayi Electronics Co. Ltd

Pioneer Corp.

Apple Inc.

Digital & Electronic Solutions Development Co. Ltd

Huawei Device Co., Ltd.

Garmin Ltd.

Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market, By Product Type:

Smartwatches

Fitness Trackers

Smart Glasses

Smart Clothing

Hearables

Others

Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market, By Connectivity:

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Others

Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market, By Sales Channel:

Online

Offline

Saudi Arabia Consumer Wearables Market, By Region:

Western

Northern & Central

Eastern

Southern

Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $0.67 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1.85 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 18.4% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/f3wfjh

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
NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of The J.M. Smucker Company (Smucker or the Company) (NYSE: SJM). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Smucker and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On November 7, 2023, Smucker announced the closing of a transaction to acquire Hostess Brands for about $5.5 billion, $2.4 billion of which was recorded as goodwill in SJMs Sweet Baked Snacks segment. On February 27, 2025, Smucker announced disappointing Q3 2025 results, including in part a comparable net sales decrease of 8% in Sweet Baked Snacks, a $794 million impairment charge related to the goodwill of the Sweet Baked Snacks segment, a $208 impairment charge to the Hostess Brand trademark, and a $268 million loss on the disposal of the Voortman business. On June 10, 2025, Smucker reported disappointing Q4 2025 results, including in part a comparable net sales decrease of 14% in Sweet Baked Snacks, an additional $867 million impairment charge related to the goodwill of the Sweet Baked Snacks segment and an additional $113 million impairment of the Hostess Brand trademark. In contrast to prior assurances about synergies driving sustainable growth, the Company said its updated its 2026 financial plan reflects decreased net sales in the Sweet Baked Snacks segment, noting the sustained underperformance of the sweet baked goods since acquisition, led to a reduction of the forecasted growth rate for the Sweet Baked Snacks reporting unit.

On this news, Smuckers stock price fell $17.44 per share, or 15.59%, to close at $94.41 per share on June 10, 2025.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
PRESS RELEASE

REGULATED INFORMATION

Brussels, 13 August 2025, 5:40 PM

Solid half-year results confirm Nextensas strategic course

In the first half of 2025, Nextensa achieved a clear increase in profitability despite a challenging economic context. Net profit increased significantly, driven by a higher contribution from development activities, lower financing costs, and a further strengthening of the balance sheet. Underlying rental income recorded positive like-for-like growth, mainly thanks to improved occupancy at Moonar and Tour & Taxis. The decrease in total rental income is mainly due to divestments, including the Knauf shopping centres, the Brixton retail park, and Hygge, representing a total volume of approximately 230 million.

These solid financial and operational results are the outcome of a clear long-term strategy, which materialised in three notable transactions in the first half of the year. The sale of the Knauf shopping centres to Wereldhave for 165.75 million reinforced the groups financial strength. In addition, Proximuss decision to choose Tour & Taxis as its new headquarters  with full pre-leasing of the Lake Side office project  confirmed the appeal of Nextensas sustainable urban developments. Lastly, Nextensa reinforced its sustainability ambitions by acquiring the iconic Proximus Towers (BEL Towers) and obtaining the permit to redevelop them into a mixed-use sustainable project located in a prime area next to Brussels North Station.

Thanks to these targeted strategic decisions and a solid foundation of results, Nextensa remains well positioned to create sustainable value for all its stakeholders.



NET RESULT

Het nettoresultaat (aandeel van de groep) over de eerste jaarhelft van 2025 bedroeg  19,9 M, of  1,96 per dividendgerechtigd aandeel, wat een stijging van 41% betekent ten opzichte van  14,1 M of  1,39 per aandeel in dezelfde periode vorig jaar

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

 Rental income (like-for-like) increased by 5.45% in the first half of 2025 driven by the continued strong performance of the Tour & Taxis site combined with the contribution from major renovations such as Moonar (Luxembourg) and Vosendorf 16 (Austria). Net rental income in H1 2025 was lower (-19.6%) than in the same period last year, due to sales completed in 2024 and H1 2025.

 A limited positive revaluation of  0,2 M on the existing portfolio compared with a negative revaluation of 6.6 M in the first half of 2024.

 A further 10% reduction in property costs was achieved compared with the same period last year.

DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

Cloche dOr

 Construction of the Stairs office building (9.000 m) is progressing well, with delivery scheduled for the end of March 2026.

 At the end of June, a lease was signed with PwC Luxembourg for approximately 9,500 m of office space in the new office building Eosys of 12.000 m, with delivery scheduled for September 2027.

 Commercialisation of the final phase of D5-D10 is progressing successfully: as at 30 June 2025, 153 apartments were sold or reserved, corresponding to an occupancy rate of 83%.

Tour & Taxis

 The Tour & Taxis site continues to strengthen its appeal thanks to a wide range of activities and facilities. The increase in both the number of events and permanent leases has translated into a 2% rise in rental income compared with the same period last year.

 The residential development is also progressing successfully: as at 30 June 2025, 327 out of 346 apartments had been sold or reserved. At present, only 15 apartments remain available for sale  a result that can be considered a major success.

ACTIVE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

 The average financing cost of the investment portfolio has decreased from 2.86% to 2.71%, thanks to the hedging policy and a reduction in financial debt.

 The sale of both Knauf shopping centres reduced the financial debt ratio to 43.41%, compared with 45.39% on 31 December 2024.

 Most of the investment portfolio maturing in 2025 have been extended for several years, so that the average maturity of the credit lines is now 2.85 years, with available headroom of  135 M

The real estate sector remains under pressure, but for Nextensa, the first half of 2025 was an exceptional period. Proximuss decision to establish its new headquarters at Tour & Taxis confirms Nextensas visionary strategy to focus on inner-city, mixed-use, and above all, sustainable developments.

The redevelopment of the BEL Towers (formerly the Proximus Towers) will be undertaken with the same mission in place. The sale of the Knauf shopping centres, the largest transaction on the Luxembourg market in the last five years, has significantly strengthened our balance sheet. I can only express my sincere thanks to our clients, tenants, banks and the entire Nextensa team for their continued commitment and trust despite the turbulent market conditions.Michel Van Geyte  CEO Nextensa













For more information

Tim Rens | Chief Financial Officer

Nextensa NV | 0436.323.915 (RPM Brussel, Nederlandstalige afdeling)

Gare Maritime, Picardstraat 11, B505, 1000 Brussel

+32 2 882 10 08 | investor.relations@nextensa.eu

www.nextensa.eu

About Nextensa

Nextensa is a mixed-use real estate investor and developer.

The companys investment portfolio is divided between the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (32%), Belgium (51%) and Austria (17%); its total value as at 30/06/2025 was approximately  1.1 billion.

As a developer, Nextensa is primarily active in shaping large urban developments. At Tour & Taxis (development of over 350,000 sqm) in Brussels, Nextensa is building a mixed real estate portfolio consisting of a revaluation of iconic buildings and new constructions. In Luxembourg (Cloche dOr), it is working in partnership on a major urban extension of more than 400,000 sqm consisting of offices, retail and residential buildings.

The company is listed on Euronext Brussels and has a market capitalisation of  426 M (value 30/06/2025).

Attachment
BROSSARD, Quebec, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Diagnos Inc. (DIAGNOS or the Corporation) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a pioneer in early detection of critical health issues using advanced technology based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), announces that it intends to extend the exercise period of an aggregate of 1,414,286 stock warrants (each a Warrant) issued as part of a non-brokered private placement of units initially announced on February 27, 2024. The Warrants initial exercise period is set to expire on August 27, 2025.

Subject to the TSX Venture Exchange (the Exchange) consent, the extended expiry date shall be February 27, 2029 (the Amendment). All other provisions of the Warrants, such as the Warrants exercise price of $0,40 per common share of the Corporation, will remain unchanged and fully in effect during the extended exercise period.

One insider of the Corporation holds 357,143 Warrants to be amended. The insider is considered a related party of the Corporation within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Amendment is exempt from the valuation requirement and the minority approval requirement prescribed in MI 61-101, based on sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), as the fair market value of the related party participation in the Amendment to Warrants does not exceed 25% of the Corporations current market capitalization. The board of directors of the Corporation has reviewed and approved the Amendment related to the Warrants to ensure that it was in the best interest of the Corporation and its shareholders

The Corporation will issue a follow up press release solely in the case where the Exchange rejects the application for the Amendment.

All monies quoted in this press release shall be stated in lawful money of Canada.

About DIAGNOS

DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical eye-related health problems. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence, DIAGNOS aims to provide more information to healthcare clinicians to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline workflows, and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.

Additional information is available at www.diagnos.com and www.sedarplus.com .

This news release contains forward-looking information. 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 these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is 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.
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sable Offshore Corp. (NYSE: SOC) is now at the center of a securities class-action lawsuit, alleging that the company misled investors to inflate its stock price just before a major secondary offering. The drama unfolded around the company's long-delayed efforts to restart operations at its San Ynez Unit (SYU) assets, which have been dormant since a pipeline shutdown in 2015.

National shareholders rights firm Hagens Berman urges Sable investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. The firm also encourages persons with knowledge who may be able to assist in the investigation to contact its attorneys.

Class Period: May 19, 2025  June 3, 2025

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Sept. 26, 2025

Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/soc

Contact the Firm Now: SOC@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895



Sable Offshore Corp. (SOC) Securities Class Action:

The suit claims that on May 19, Sable triggered a stock frenzy with a press release announcing it had "restarted oil production at SYU," a claim that sent its shares soaring by a remarkable 12.5% in a single day. Riding this wave of investor enthusiasm, the company quickly priced a secondary stock offering two days later, raising a substantial $256.5 million.

But the euphoria was short-lived. Just as the ink was drying on the offering, a letter from California's Lieutenant Governor, Eleni Kounalakis, allegedly surfaced that accused Sable of painting a deceptive picture. According to the complaint, the letter bluntly stated that the company's press release appears to mischaracterize the nature of recent activities" and that the so-called "restart" was nothing more than "well-testing procedures required by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement prior to restart." In a damning indictment, the letter is said to have declared, "Characterizing testing activities as a restart of operations is not only misleading but also highly inappropriate."

When the contents of this letter were reported in the financial press on May 28, the market delivered a swift verdict. Sable's stock price plunged over 15% the very next day, wiping out the gains that had enticed new investors just a week earlier.

The litigation now aims to hold the company accountable for what some are calling a calculated maneuver to raise capital under false pretenses. The case, Johnson v. Sable Offshore Corp., et al., is being litigated in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

Were investigating whether Sable may have misled investors about its restart progress and purported restart of SYU, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.

If you invested in Sable and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, submit your losses now 

If youd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Sable case and our investigation, read more 

Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Sable Offshore should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email SOC@hbsslaw.com.

About Hagens Berman

Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs rights complex litigation firm focusing on corporate accountability. The firm is home to a robust practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and other wrongdoings. Hagens Bermans team has secured more than $2.9 billion in this area of law. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.
Chicago, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global potassium chloride market was valued at US$ 24.89 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 38.28 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.90% during the forecast period 20252033.

The global potassium chloride market stands at the precipice of a sustained growth era, fundamentally driven by the non-negotiable global imperative of food security. With the world's population projected to hit 8.1 billion by 2025, the pressure on agricultural systems is intensifying. This demographic surge is coupled with a critical reduction in global arable land, which is expected to fall below 0.18 hectares per capita by 2025. Consequently, enhancing crop yields from existing farmland is not just an economic goal but a necessity for global stability. This reality fuels the demand for potash. Projections indicate that global grain and oilseed demand will surge by over 250 million tons by 2033, a demand that can only be met through efficient fertilization.

Request Sample Pages: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/potassium-chloride-market

The market is responding with robust activity, as forecasts for global potash shipments in 2024 range between 68 and 71 million tons, with some analysts at BMO Capital Markets projecting demand to firmly reach 70 million tons. This powerful convergence of demographic, agricultural, and economic drivers establishes a highly promising outlook for the potassium chloride market, positioning it as a cornerstone of future global agriculture and a prime area for strategic investment.

Key Findings in Potassium Chloride Market

Market Forecast (2033) US$ 38.28 billion CAGR 4.90% Largest Region (2024) Asia Pacific (46%) By Product Type Agriculture Grade (86%) By Application Chemical Manufacturing (41%) Top Drivers Increasing global food demand boosts fertilizer consumption and growth.

Rising adoption of precision and sustainable agriculture practices.

Expanding industrial applications in pharmaceuticals, food, and chemicals. Top Trends Focus on developing controlled-release and specialized fertilizer formulations.

Shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable potash extraction methods.

Growing demand for food-grade potassium chloride as a salt substitute Top Challenges Geopolitical tensions creating significant supply chain and price vulnerabilities.

Strict environmental regulations on mining and fertilizer application.

High price volatility squeezing margins for smaller market players.

Titans of Production: Unpacking the 2024 Supply-Side Projections

The supply side of the global potassium chloride market is characterized by strategic forecasting and substantial production targets from its leading players. Industry giant Nutrien has set a bold 2024 potash production guidance of 13.3 to 14.1 million tons. This is closely aligned with its ambitious forecasted sales volume of 13.0 to 13.8 million tons for the year. Competitor The Mosaic Company has also outlined significant targets, with a 2024 production forecast between 8.5 and 9.5 million tons and projected sales volumes in the range of 9.0 to 10.0 million tons.

In Europe, Germanys K+S Group is projecting a 2024 production volume of approximately 7 million tons of potassium chloride. Supporting these massive production figures is a powerful logistics network. Canpotex, the export marketing entity for Nutrien and Mosaic, is expected to ship over 13 million tons in 2024 alone. These figures are underpinned by vast operational capabilities, with Nutrien alone possessing a network capable of producing 18 million tons annually, showcasing the industrys readiness to meet escalating global demand.

A Quarterly Snapshot: Analyzing Q1 2024 Production and Sales Metrics

First-quarter results from 2024 provide a granular view of the market's momentum. Nutrien reported a strong start, producing 3.5 million tons of potash and recording sales of 3.2 million tons in Q1. The Mosaic Companys sales volumes for the first quarter of 2024 were also robust at 2.2 million tons, reflecting a brisk pace of early-year demand. The company's operational efficiency was notable, with a potash operating rate of 81% for the quarter. Meanwhile, ICL Groups potash production in the first quarter of 2024 reached an impressive 1,159 thousand metric tons. Looking at other key global suppliers, the Arab Potash Company (APC) in Jordan is aiming to produce over 2.7 million tons in 2024. These Q1 figures collectively demonstrate a healthy and active start to the year for the potassium chloride market, aligning with the optimistic full-year forecasts and indicating that producers are successfully capitalizing on strong early-season demand from key agricultural regions around the world.

Decoding the Price Points: A Deep Dive into 2024 Market Pricing

Pricing dynamics of the global potassium chloride market in the first half of 2024 have painted a picture of stability and recovery, providing a solid financial foundation for producers. The Mosaic Company reported an average Muriate of Potash (MOP) realized price of $246 per ton in Q1. In parallel, Nutriens average realized potash price for the same quarter was $214 per ton, with the company projecting a full-year average between $210 and $250 per ton. Regional spot prices tell a story of market resilience.

In Brazil, prices hit a low of approximately $280 per ton CFR (cost and freight) in early 2024 before recovering to the US$ 300305 per ton CFR range by February. In the crucial Southeast Asian market, granular MOP prices were reported between US$290320 per ton CFR, while standard MOP prices hovered around the $290 per ton CFR mark. Back in North America, the Q2 2024 benchmark price for potash was firmly set at $360 per short ton. Further validating these price levels, ICL Groups realized price per ton of potash in Q1 was a strong $291.

Financial Vital Signs: Scrutinizing Corporate Earnings from the First Quarter

The strong pricing environment translated directly into healthy financial returns for the industrys leaders in the first quarter of 2024. Nutrien's potash segment was a significant contributor to its earnings, generating $689 million in sales and delivering an impressive adjusted EBITDA of $327 million. The Mosaic Companys Potash segment also demonstrated robust profitability, reporting net sales of $626 million for the quarter.

This sales performance generated an adjusted EBITDA of $201 million and a gross margin of $129 million, underscoring the segment's efficiency and value. ICL Groups potash operations followed suit, with the segment achieving sales of $337 million in Q1 2024. This resulted in a substantial adjusted EBITDA of $100 million for the quarter. These strong financial vital signs from across the potassium chloride market confirm that producers are effectively converting production volumes and stable pricing into significant earnings, creating a positive outlook for shareholders and stakeholders.

The Bedrock of Supply: Examining Production Costs and Operational Efficiency Metrics

Operational efficiency and cost management are paramount in the competitive potassium chloride market. In the first quarter of 2024, Nutrien demonstrated exceptional cost control, reporting a potash cash production cost of just $69 per ton. For the full year, The Mosaic Company anticipates its MOP cash costs to be in the low range of $80 to $90 per ton. These lean cost structures are crucial, especially considering that energy costs can represent 15-20% of the cash cost of potash production. Looking to the future, BHPs Jansen mine is projected to have a cash cost of production around $100 per ton, positioning it to be among the world's lowest-cost producers.

Managing supply chains is also key, with North American potash inventory levels at the end of March 2024 standing at a manageable 2.8 million tons. The long-term investment horizon in this sector is underscored by the fact that the timeline from a greenfield project's announcement to its first production can take a lengthy 7-10 years.

Charting Future Horizons: Major Projects Reshaping the Supply Landscape Post-2025

The future supply landscape of the potassium chloride market is being actively shaped by significant new investments. The most prominent of these is BHP's Jansen Stage 1 project in Saskatchewan, Canada. This massive undertaking is designed for an annual production capacity of 4.35 million tons, backed by a capital expenditure of $5.7 billion. The project is advancing steadily, with first production anticipated by the end of 2026. BHP is already studying a Jansen Stage 2 expansion, which could add another 4 million tons of annual capacity, bringing the site's potential combined output to 8.35 million tons.

With an estimated operational life of around 100 years, Jansen represents a multi-generational supply source. During its construction phase, the project is expected to create a peak of 3,500 jobs, and it will support over 600 permanent jobs once operational. Meanwhile, incumbent leader Nutrien is evaluating a potential capacity increase of 5 million tons across its existing mine network, signaling that established players are also planning for long-term growth.

Mapping Global Demand: Key Import Markets and Regional Consumption Dynamics

The demand side of the equation in the potassium chloride market is driven by the worlds agricultural powerhouses. Brazil remains a critical driver, with its 2024 potash imports projected to be between 13.5 and 14.0 million tons. This intense demand is fueled by its massive Safrinha corn crop, planted on over 17 million hectares. The country's farmers utilize high application rates, with soybeans receiving approximately 150-180 kg of potash per hectare. India is another pillar of global demand, with potash imports for the 2024-2025 period estimated to be around 4.5 to 5.0 million tons. In North America, where the average potash application rate for corn is between 120-150 kg per hectare, a typical corn crop removes about 60-70 pounds of potash (K2O) per acre, necessitating consistent replenishment. Even China, with a domestic potash production capacity of around 8 million tons per year as of 2024, remains a major importer, highlighting the global dependency on this essential nutrient.

Reserves and Logistics: The Foundation of the Global Supply Chain

The long-term viability of the potassium chloride market rests on vast geological reserves and sophisticated logistics. Canada is the undisputed leader, holding the world's largest potash reserves, estimated at over 4.6 billion tons. Russia holds the second-largest global reserves, while China's are estimated at around 1 billion tons. These reserves are tapped by massive mining operations. Nutriens Rocanville mine is a flagship, with an operational capability of 6.5 million tons, supported by its Cory (3.0 million tons) and Lanigan (3.8 million tons) mines. Mosaics network includes the Belle Plaine facility, with an annual capacity of 3.9 million tons, and the Colonsay mine, with a 2.6 million ton capacity. Other major global sources include ICL's Dead Sea works in Israel, with an annual capacity exceeding 2 million tons.

Moving this product to market relies on critical infrastructure, with the Port of Vancouver serving as the primary export hub for Canadian potash, handling over 95% of all exports. Geopolitical shifts also impact logistics, with the majority of Belarus's 2024 potash exports now being routed through Russian ports.

Request Region or Segment-Specific Customization  Free of Charge: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ask-for-customization/potassium-chloride-market

The Regulatory and Economic Impact on the Potassium Chloride Market's Future

Government policies and economic contributions play a final, crucial role in shaping the potassium chloride market. In India, the government's Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) directly influences consumption. For the 2024 Kharif season, the potash subsidy was set at 2.82 per kilogram. This policy effectively provides a subsidy of 2,820 Indian Rupees per ton of potassium chloride, directly impacting affordability for millions of farmers and stimulating demand. Beyond direct subsidies, the industry is a massive economic engine for its host regions. In Saskatchewan, Canada, the potash industry is a cornerstone of the provincial economy, contributing over $5 billion annually.

These figures highlight the symbiotic relationship between the industry, national food security policies, and regional economic prosperity. This interplay ensures that the dynamic potassium chloride market will remain a subject of strategic importance for governments and a source of significant economic value for decades to come.

Global Potassium Chloride Market Major Players:

ICL

Belaruskali

Canpotex

Compass Minerals International

EuroChem

K+S

Maaden

Mosaic

Nutrien

PJSC PhosAgro

Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum

Sichuan Tianqi Group

Sinochem Holdings

Sinofert Holdings

SK Chemicals

Uralkali

Yara International

Other Prominent Players

Key Market Segmentation:

By Application

Water Treatment

Metallurgy & Welding

Oil & Gas Drilling

Chemical Manufacturing

Others

By Product

Pharma & Lab Grade

Agricultural Grade

Technical/Industrial Grade

Feed Grade

Food Grade

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East

Africa

South America

Understand the Report in Depth  Schedule a Guided Walkthrough: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/report-walkthrough/potassium-chloride-market

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With a team of experienced business analysts, economists, and industry experts, we deliver accurate, in-depth, and actionable research tailored to meet the strategic needs of our clients. At Astute Analytica, our clients come first, and we are committed to delivering cost-effective, high-value research solutions that drive success in an evolving marketplace.

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New York, USA, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Embolic Protection Devices Market Set to Experience Unprecedented Growth at a CAGR of ~8% by 2032 | DelveInsight

The demand for embolic protection devices is growing due to several important factors, including the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular and neurovascular diseases, along with a surge in conditions like hypertension and diabetes that heighten the risk of vascular complications. Additionally, the healthcare industry's shift toward minimally invasive surgeries is boosting the use of these devices, as they help minimize procedural risks. This trend is further supported by the heightened focus of major industry players on product innovation and new launches, driving broader adoption and technological advancement in the field.

DelveInsights Embolic Protection Devices Market Insights report provides the current and forecast market analysis, individual leading embolic protection devices companies market shares, challenges, embolic protection devices market drivers, barriers, trends, and key market embolic protection devices companies in the market.

Key Takeaways from the Embolic Protection Devices Market Report

As per DelveInsight estimates, North America is anticipated to dominate the global embolic protection devices market during the forecast period.

In the product segment of the embolic protection devices market, the distal occlusion devices category accounted for the largest market share in 2024.

Notable embolic protection devices companies such as Boston Scientific Corporation, Abbott, Medtronic, Cordis, Contego Medical, Inc., Integer Holdings Corporation, InspireMD Inc., Emboline, Inc., Keystone Heart Ltd., Lepu Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Terumo Corporation, and several others are currently operating in the embolic protection devices market.

and several others are currently operating in the embolic protection devices market. In June 2025, InspireMD announced that its CGuard Prime Embolic Prevention System (EPS) received CE Mark approval under the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR) for use in stroke prevention.

announced that its CGuard Prime Embolic Prevention System (EPS) received CE Mark approval under the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR) for use in stroke prevention. In May 2025, Terumo Interventional Systems announced the early U.S. commercial availability of its FDA-approved ROADSAVER Carotid Stent System, designed for use with the Nanoparasol Embolic Protection System.

To read more about the latest highlights related to the embolic protection devices market, get a snapshot of the key highlights entailed in the Global Embolic Protection Devices Market Forecast Report

Embolic Protection Devices Overview

Embolic protection devices are specialized tools designed to capture or remove debris that may become dislodged during vascular procedures, such as angioplasty or transcatheter valve replacements. These devices play a crucial role in preventing embolization, where plaque, thrombus, or other particles travel through the bloodstream and block smaller vessels, potentially leading to serious complications like stroke, myocardial infarction, or organ damage. EPDs are primarily categorized into distal filters, distal occlusion balloons, and proximal occlusion devices, each tailored to specific anatomical and procedural needs. Their use has become increasingly important in high-risk interventions, particularly in carotid artery stenting and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), where cerebral protection is paramount.





Embolic Protection Devices Market Insights

North America is anticipated to dominate the embolic protection devices market in the coming years, owing to a combination of critical factors. This leadership is primarily driven by the increasing global burden of cardiovascular and neurovascular diseases, alongside the rising incidence of hypertension and diabetes, which contribute to vascular complications. Market growth in the region is also supported by robust product innovation among leading manufacturers, high clinical demand, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and substantial investments in research and development.

Additionally, the regions market expansion is bolstered by ongoing product launches. For example, in May 2025, Terumo Interventional Systems announced the early U.S. commercial launch of its FDA-cleared ROADSAVER Carotid Stent System, intended for use with the Nanoparasol Embolic Protection System. Targeted at patients with high surgical risk for carotid endarterectomy, this is the first FDA-approved dual-layer micromesh carotid stent in the U.S., offering a closed-cell design with open-cell flexibility. It improves wall apposition in challenging anatomies and helps minimize plaque protrusion and distal embolization.

Consequently, due to these contributing factors, North America is expected to drive significant growth in the embolic protection devices market throughout the forecast period of 2025 to 2032.

To know more about why North America is leading the market growth in the embolic protection devices market, get a snapshot of the Embolic Protection Devices Market Outlook

Embolic Protection Devices Market Dynamics

The embolic protection devices market is witnessing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular and neurovascular disorders worldwide. As minimally invasive procedures become more common, the risk of embolic complications, such as stroke, myocardial infarction, or distal embolization, has led to a growing demand for devices that can mitigate these risks. EPDs, particularly in procedures like carotid artery stenting, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and peripheral interventions, have gained importance due to their ability to capture and remove embolic debris, thereby improving procedural safety and outcomes.

A key driver of market expansion is the growing geriatric population, which is more susceptible to vascular diseases and associated interventions. Additionally, the rising incidence of comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia further fuels the need for vascular procedures and, consequently, embolic protection. Technological advancements have also played a pivotal role, with newer-generation devices offering enhanced deliverability, better capture efficiency, and compatibility with a broader range of anatomies. These innovations are expanding the scope of EPD usage beyond traditional areas, opening new market segments.

The regulatory and reimbursement landscape significantly influences the dynamics of the EPD market. In developed regions like North America and Western Europe, supportive reimbursement policies and robust regulatory pathways encourage product adoption. Moreover, ongoing clinical trials and real-world studies supporting the efficacy and safety of EPDs have boosted physician confidence and expanded clinical indications. Conversely, in developing markets, limited reimbursement, high device costs, and lower awareness among clinicians pose challenges, although this also presents opportunities for market penetration through strategic partnerships, education, and cost-effective solutions.

From a competitive standpoint, the market is moderately consolidated, with key players such as Boston Scientific, Abbott, Medtronic, and Cardinal Health dominating. These companies are investing heavily in R&D, product development, and strategic acquisitions to maintain and expand their market share. Emerging players and startups are also entering the space with niche technologies, offering competitive and innovative solutions that could disrupt the current market dynamics. Collaborations with hospitals and research institutes are enabling rapid clinical validation and commercialization.

In conclusion, the embolic protection devices market is poised for sustained growth, fueled by demographic trends, procedural advancements, and increasing awareness of embolic risks in interventional procedures. However, to fully capitalize on growth opportunities, stakeholders must navigate regional disparities in access, cost pressures, and regulatory hurdles. As the clinical value proposition of EPDs becomes more widely recognized, their integration into standard care pathways across multiple specialties is expected to accelerate globally.

Get a sneak peek at the embolic protection devices market dynamics @ Embolic Protection Devices Market Trends

Report Metrics Details Coverage Global Study Period 20222032 Embolic Protection Devices Market CAGR ~8% Embolic Protection Devices Market Size by 2032 ~USD 1 Billion Key Embolic Protection Devices Companies Boston Scientific Corporation, Abbott, Medtronic, Cordis, Contego Medical, Inc., Integer Holdings Corporation, InspireMD Inc., Emboline, Inc., Keystone Heart Ltd., Lepu Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Terumo Corporation, and others

Embolic Protection Devices Market Assessment

Embolic Protection Devices Market Segmentation Embolic Protection Devices Market Segmentation By Product: Distal Occlusion Devices, Distal Filters, and Proximal Occlusion Devices Embolic Protection Devices Market Segmentation By Application: Cardiovascular Diseases, Neurovascular Diseases, and Others Embolic Protection Devices Market Segmentation By End-User: Hospitals and Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, and Others Embolic Protection Devices Market Segmentation By Geography : North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World

Porters Five Forces Analysis, Product Profiles, Case Studies, KOLs Views, Analysts View

Which MedTech key players in the embolic protection devices market are set to emerge as the trendsetter explore @ Embolic Protection Devices Analysis

Table of Contents

1 Embolic Protection Devices Market Report Introduction 2 Embolic Protection Devices Market Executive Summary 3 Competitive Landscape 4 Regulatory Analysis 5 Embolic Protection Devices Market Key Factors Analysis 6 Embolic Protection Devices Market Porters Five Forces Analysis 7 Embolic Protection Devices Market Layout 8 Embolic Protection Devices Market Company and Product Profiles 9 KOL Views 10 Project Approach 11 About DelveInsight 12 Disclaimer & Contact Us

Interested in knowing the embolic protection devices market by 2032? Click to get a snapshot of the Embolic Protection Devices Market Analysis

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Peripheral Embolic Protection Devices Market Insights, Competitive Landscape, and Market Forecast  2032 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key peripheral embolic protection devices companies, including Medtronic, Abbott, Boston Scientific, Cordis, Allium Medical Solutions, Contego Medical, W.L. Gore & Associates, Silk Road Medical, Claret Medical, AngioSlide, among others.

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Transcatheter Embolization and Occlusion Devices Market Insights, Competitive Landscape, and Market Forecast  2032 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key transcatheter embolization and occlusion devices companies, including B Braun Meslungen AG, BestMedical, MINZE HEALTH, Santron Medtronic, Potent Medical, Laborie, MEDKONSULT medical technology s.r.o., The Prometheus Group, HCItalia srl, DeltaMed, MEDICA S.P.A., Aymed Medical Technology, EV.SERVICE ITALIA, tic Medizintechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Creo Medical Ltd, Stericom Ltd., Amecath Medical Technologies, Cook, Well Lead Medical Co., Ltd, among others.

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DelveInsights Pharma Competitive Intelligence Service: Through its CI solutions, DelveInsight provides its clients with real-time and actionable intelligence on their competitors and markets of interest to keep them stay ahead of the competition by providing insights into the latest therapeutic area-specific/indication-specific market trends, in emerging drugs, and competitive strategies. These services are tailored to the specific needs of each client and are delivered through a combination of reports, dashboards, and interactive presentations, enabling clients to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and identify opportunities for growth and expansion.

Other Business Pharmaceutical Consulting Services

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Discover how a mid-pharma client gained a level of confidence in their soon-to-be partner for manufacturing their therapeutics by downloading our Due Diligence Case Study

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ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ozak AI is proving to be one of 2025s most exciting crypto presales, officially surpassing $1.8 million raised as momentum continues to build. The projects rapid growth has been fueled by its innovative AI-powered market intelligence platform, strategic partnerships, and a presale structure designed to reward investors. With a target launch price of $1, the current entry point of $0.005 offers investors the potential for an extraordinary 200x return if projections are met.

Beyond the impressive fundraising, Ozak AI is securing a growing community of developers who believe in its mission to merge artificial intelligence with blockchain efficiency. This combination is increasingly attractive to crypto traders seeking real-time, data-driven tools that can enhance decision-making in volatile markets.

Ozak AI Overview

Ozak AI delivers advanced, AI-generated market insights in real time, packaging institutional-grade analytics into an accessible format for everyday traders. Its goal is simple: reduce the delay between market-moving events and investor action. The platforms AI models scan global markets, detect patterns, and broadcast trade signals instantly, helping users capitalize on opportunities before they disappear.





Currently in the 4th stage of the OZ presale , Ozak AI has sold over 110 million $OZ tokens, further cementing its strong early adoption. The project is already listed on CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko and has successfully completed both a CertiK audit and an internal code review. These listings and audits provide transparency and credibilitytwo factors critical for winning investor trust in the crowded crypto presale space.





Ozak AI x Weblume: AI-Driven Web3 Creation

In a move to expand its ecosystem, Ozak AI has partnered with Weblume, a no-code Web3 builder that empowers users to create smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), and fully functional blockchain websites in minutes. This partnership allows Ozak AIs real-time market signals to be directly integrated into Weblumes drag-and-drop interface.

The result? Creators can instantly launch data-rich dashboards and on-chain apps without writing a single line of code. Imagine an NFT marketplace that displays live trading sentiment or a DeFi dashboard that auto-updates with the latest market opportunitiesall powered by Ozak AIs intelligence layer. For builders and investors alike, this collaboration represents a major step toward making blockchain innovation faster, smarter, and more accessible.

Ozak AI in Vietnam: Signature Cocktails and Vietnamese Ca Phe

The Ozak AI team recently made waves at GM Vietnam, hosting a mix of networking and community-building events that blended cultural flavor with blockchain innovation. From Saturday nights neon-lit Sundown Signals Mixer to Sundays Roadshow Brunch fueled by authentic Vietnamese ca phe, the events drew a crowd of investors, builders, and KOLs eager to connect.

The energy in Hanoi was electric, with countless we should definitely build that moments sparking new collaborations. Ozak AI extended special thanks to partners like Manta Network, BD Ventures, TCVN Community, Souls Labs, MPost, and Yellow for making the events a huge success. While GM Vietnam is wrapped, the partnerships and projects it inspired are just beginning to take shapesetting the stage for Ozak AIs growing global presence.

Ozak AI x SINT: Who Is SINT?

One of Ozak AIs most compelling collaborations is with SINT, a platform describing itself as a one-click AI upgrade for any productWeb2 or Web3. SINT brings a powerful stack of autonomous agents, cross-chain bridges, and voice-driven interfaces that can transform static applications into self-operating ecosystems.

Its features include

AI Agents for Trading & UXBots that execute trades, manage portfolios, and even moderate communitieswithout requiring coding skills.

Cross-Chain ConnectivitySeamless integration with Ethereum, Solana, BNB, Cosmos, and more through its MCP Layer.

Voice Command CapabilitiesExecute on-chain actions simply by speaking, e.g., swap half my USDC to ETH.

White-Label SDKA plug-and-play toolkit for embedding AI logic into apps, devices, and extensions.

With over 60,000 users, 4,500+ daily AI agent interactions, and $320,000 in revenue in just three months, SINT has quickly proven market demand for its services.

Why Ozak AI and SINT Make Sense Together

The collaboration between Ozak AI and SINT lies in their complementary strengthsOzak AI reduces information latency, while SINT reduces user effort. Together, they can transform market intelligence into hands-free execution, enabling traders to act instantly on verified AI signals without manually navigating complex platforms.

Both teams share a commitment to accessibility, transparency, and on-chain verifiability. Ozak AI timestamps every signal, while SINT tracks agent performance through its Return-on-Advice (ROA) system. This level of transparency lets users see exactly when a signal was issued, what action was taken, and what result it achieved.

The potential feedback loop is powerful: more AI agent activity generates more market data for Ozak AIs models, while improved signals enhance SINTs execution qualityboosting user trust and engagement.





As Ozak AI nears the $2M fundraising milestone and strengthens its network of strategic partnerships, the projects momentum shows no signs of slowing. With its launch price set at $1, the current presale valuation offers investors an asymmetric opportunity in a market increasingly hungry for AI-driven blockchain solutions.

About Ozak AI

Ozak AI is a blockchain-based crypto project that provides an innovative platform that focuses on predictive AI and advanced data analytics for financial markets. Through machine learning algorithms and decentralized community technologies, Ozak AI enables real-time, accurate, and actionable insights to help crypto lovers and corporations make the perfect choices.

For more, visit

Website: https://ozak.ai/

Telegram: https://t.me/OzakAGI

Twitter: https://x.com/ozakagi

Contact Us:

Andres Brinc

media@ozak.ai

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Saint Augustine, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Florida Coastal Contractors, LLC, a state-certified outdoor living contractor and inground pool builder based in beautiful St. Augustine, Florida, is rolling out an exciting plan to improve the outdoor living spaces in St. Johns County. The company is well-known for its high-quality services, including building swimming pools, creating outdoor kitchens, and constructing pergolas. Their aim is to turn backyards into luxurious getaways. Florida Coastal Contractors has built a strong reputation by offering a wide range of services tailored to each client's specific tastes.

For locals looking to improve their homes, Florida Coastal Contractors is a great choice. They offer a variety of services that enhance the beauty and practicality of outdoor areas. By designing custom swimming pools, they give homeowners unique and personalized aquatic spaces, as detailed on their website. They're also experts in crafting outdoor kitchens, combining convenience with style for cooking enthusiasts who love to entertain outside.

Jessica Shafer, a spokesperson for Florida Coastal Contractors, shares the company's excitement about engaging with the local community. "We are thrilled to offer services that aren't just about construction but about creating personal paradises in our clients' backyards. Our goal is to combine creativity and craftsmanship to deliver elegant and functional outdoor living spaces that locals can enjoy for years."

Their work in constructing and installing paver patios and driveways is particularly popular among homeowners who want to boost their property's appeal. These projects are designed to be both beautiful and durable, adding value in both form and function. Additionally, the company excels in building screen rooms and pavilions, allowing clients to enjoy Florida's climate while being protected from unwanted elements.

The quality commitment at Florida Coastal Contractors has caught attention. The company was named Best Paver Company in the Best of St. Augustine FL 2020 Awards, highlighting their dedication to brilliance and client satisfaction. Their creative work has been featured in the March 2025 edition of Social Magazine, showcasing how their projects transform local outdoor spaces.

On top of these honors, they provide free consultations and quotes for all their services, giving potential clients a clear view of the available options. Whether it's building a pergola, crafting a cozy outdoor or indoor fireplace, or redesigning an entire backyard, Florida Coastal Contractors are prepared to offer custom solutions tailored to specific needs and preferences.

Florida Coastal Contractors is focused on delivering top-quality work and ensuring customer happiness, earning them a trusted spot in the field of outdoor living construction. They know that a well-thought-out outdoor space can boost a home's value and how it feels to live there. By focusing on detailed consultations and working closely with clients, they make sure every project is custom-fit to match the homeowner's vision.

Jessica Shafer emphasizes, "At Florida Coastal Contractors, we recognize each outdoor space is as unique as its owner. That's why we provide personalized solutions that reflect our clients' lifestyles and aspirations. We take pride in building relationships with our clients and turning their visions into tangible realities."

Jessica goes on to say, "Florida Coastal Contractors has built a reputation for delivering outdoor kitchen and paver patio installation, pergola and screen room construction, as well as swimming pool construction projects with a focus on professionalism and reliability. The company maintains open and clear lines of communication with clients, adheres to established timelines, and provides clear, upfront cost estimates. Each project is managed from consultation to completion with attention to detail, ensuring both a smooth process and exceptional finished results."

Florida Coastal Contractors aims to be more than just a contractor for the St. Johns community; they want to inspire creativity in outdoor home transformation. Their vast experience and dedication to quality give homeowners in St. Augustine and beyond amazing chances to turn their properties into genuine luxury retreats. With their creative methods and commitment to high standards, Florida Coastal Contractors are setting new benchmarks in outdoor living in the area.

The positive Florida Coastal Contractors Reviews echo the company's solid reputation, highlighting their dedication to quality service and client satisfaction. Their careful planning and use of top-notch materials make them a top choice for comprehensive outdoor renovations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxSGyF9yhkc

For residents looking to upgrade their outdoor areas, Florida Coastal Contractors stands as a symbol of skilled craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. They provide the expertise needed to not just imagine, but to experience upgraded outdoor spaces crafted with personal dreams and lifestyles at their core.

###

For more information about Florida Coastal Contractors, LLC, contact the company here:



Florida Coastal Contractors, LLC

Jessica Shafer

(904) 827-3962

hello@dreambackyardbuilders.com

3501 North Ponce De Leon Blvd #374 St. Augustine, FL 32084
SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PHARMACORP RX INC. (PharmaCorp or the Corporation) (TSXV: PCRX) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a credit agreement with Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) providing the Corporation with up to $20,500,000 of committed credit facilities (the Credit Facilities), plus a $10,000,000 accordion feature and a $1,000,000 Visa credit facility. The Credit Facilities will support PharmaCorps acquisition strategy and the expansion of its acquisition and operating platforms.

In conjunction with the above Credit Facilities, CIBC is also supporting PharmaCorps Pharmacist Co-Ownership Program through a separate $5,000,000 credit facility which makes loans available to pharmacists wishing to acquire an ownership position in the PharmaCorp pharmacy where they work.

Credit Facilities

The Credit Facilities include:

A $17,500,000 committed acquisition term facility with a $10,000,000 accordion feature, allowing PharmaCorp to increase its borrowing capacity as acquisition opportunities arise

A $3,000,000 committed revolving operating line for working capital

Pharmacist Co-Ownership Program Credit Facility  Supporting Growth and Local Ownership

The $5,000,000 Pharmacist Co-Ownership Program credit facility, delivered through PharmaCorps Co-Ownership Financing Program, addresses the long-standing access to capital challenge for pharmacists in the pharmacy sector. Under this program, loans are made available to pharmacists wishing to acquire an ownership position in the PharmaCorp pharmacy where they work, financing up to 100% of their equity investment. These loans will be offered at competitive rates with repayment terms of up to 15 years.

PharmaCorps Co-Ownership Financing Program removes a significant barrier to ownership, said Alan Simpson, Executive Chairman of PharmaCorp. Many talented pharmacists simply dont have the capital or financing options to become true owners. Our program, now backed by CIBC, provides them with a direct path to equity and long-term wealth creation through co-ownership with PharmaCorp. With these expanded credit facilities in place, we are now well-positioned to continue to execute acquisition opportunities and to scale our co-ownership model across Canada in the near term.

About PharmaCorp Rx Inc.

PharmaCorp currently operates four PharmaChoice Canada bannered pharmacies in Canada and will continue to acquire PharmaChoice Canada branded pharmacies as they come to market in conjunction with its strategic alliance agreement with PharmaChoice Canada. The Corporation will also acquire independently owned non-PharmaChoice Canada bannered pharmacies in Canada, and thereafter, continue to operate such acquired pharmacies under a PharmaChoice Canada banner. PharmaCorp shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol: PCRX.

PharmaCorp actively welcomes discussions with pharmacy owners considering succession or sale. For more information about our acquisition program and process, please visit www.PharmaCorpRx.ca or contact our team confidentially. We are committed to seamless transitions that protect your legacy and serve your community.

For further information, contact:

Mr. Alan Simpson

Suite #203, 303 Wellman Lane, Saskatoon, SK S7T 0J1 

Tel: (306) 536-3771

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 Information: This news release contains forward-looking information regarding the Corporation within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information in relation to: the Credit Facilities, including the accordion feature, the impact of the Credit Facilities on the Corporations acquisition strategy and its acquisition and operating platforms; the Pharmacist Co-Ownership Program including the $5,000,000 credit facility to support the program, the availability of the $5,000,000 credit facility and the terms of this credit facility, the impact of the program to remove barriers to ownership and to provide a path to wealth creation and the timing for the roll out of this program; potential acquisition opportunities and the completion of such acquisitions; and the Corporations goal to continue to acquire pharmacies as they come to market and to operate such pharmacies under the PharmaChoice Canada banner. This forward-looking information reflects current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the management of the Corporation and on assumptions the Corporation believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to: the supply of satisfactory pharmacies coming to market for purchase by the Corporation at prices satisfactory to Corporation, and the ability of the Corporation to acquire such pharmacies; the volume of acquisition opportunities presented to the Corporation being equal to or greater than historical volumes; and market acceptance of the Pharmacist Co-Ownership Program and the terms of the credit facility under such program. 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 Corporation to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; delay or failure to receive board of directors, third party or regulatory approvals; competition; changes in legislation, including pharmacy regulation, affecting the Corporation; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; conclusions of economic evaluations and appraisals; and lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals. A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Corporations disclosure documents on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important risks and 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. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Corporation as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. However, the Corporation expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.
NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of National Grid plc (NYSE: NGG) resulting from allegations that National Grid plc may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased National Grid securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41344 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On July 2, 2025, Reuters published an article entitled Preventable National Grid failures led to Heathrow fire, findings say. The article stated that a fire that shut Londons Heathrow airport in March, stranding thousands of people, was caused by the UK power grids failure to maintain an electricity substation, an official report said on Wednesday, prompting the energy watchdog to open a probe. Further, the article stated that the United Kingdoms Energy minister, Ed Miliband, had called the report deeply concerning, after it concluded that the issue which caused the fire was identified seven years ago but went unaddressed by power grid operator National Grid[.]

On this news, National Grids American Depositary Shares (ADSs) fell 5%, on July 2, 2024.

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. 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. At the time Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

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 Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

case@rosenlegal.com

www.rosenlegal.com
SANDY, Utah, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mountain America Credit Union, through the Mountain America Foundation, is continuing its long-standing commitment to K-12 educators by offering $10,000 in grant funding for the 20252026 school year as part of its educator grant program. Grants will be awarded exclusively in states across Mountain Americas footprint including Arizona, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada.

Educators in these four states are encouraged to apply for one of ten $1,000 grants to fund innovative classroom projects that inspire learning and enhance student engagement. Applications open August 11, 2025, and will be accepted through September 15, 2025, with recipients announced in October.

Our educator grant program is about making a meaningful difference in classrooms across our footprint, said Sharlene Wells, senior vice president of public relations at Mountain America. Were looking forward to supporting teachers in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada who bring creativity, compassion, and excellence into their schools every day.

Since the programs launch in 2016, Mountain America has awarded more than 100 grants to teachers leading impactful projects including science and STEM labs, inclusive reading initiatives, arts integration, and hands-on vocational programs.

Grants are open to all K-12 educators in eligible states. Mountain America membership is not required to apply.

To apply for an educator grant, please visit macu.com/grants.

To learn more about Mountain Americas community involvement, visit macu.com/newsroom.
GREELEY, Colo., Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JBS USA, one of the worlds leading food companies, today announced it has reached an agreement to purchase a production facility in Ankeny, Iowa, with plans to build out the largest ready-to-eat bacon and ready-to-eat sausage plant in the companys U.S. portfolio. The facility was previously owned and operated by Hy-Vee.

The 186,000 square-foot facility will be transformed to produce fully cooked bacon and sausage products. The location previously produced other types of food for Hy-Vee stores. Due to the type of work involved, JBS is looking to hire former employees who previously worked at the facility for the retailer. After the initial capital investments and construction are complete, the plant is expected to be operational by mid-2026 and to create approximately 400 jobs when all phases of the project are finished.

Todays announcement aligns with our long-term strategy of offering more value-added and prepared foods products to meet the needs of our customers and consumers, said Wesley Batista Filho, JBS USA Chief Executive Officer. We are proud to grow our operations in Iowa, where we already operate four production facilities, with another expected to break ground later this year.

In May, the company announced its intention to build a state-of-the-art fresh sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa. JBS also operates plants in Council Bluffs, Marshalltown and Ottumwa.

This facility in Ankeny will not only expand our prepared foods business in the U.S., it will also benefit from synergies and strategic supply of product from our other plants in the region, said Rick Foster, Head of JBS USA Prepared Foods.

In 2021, JBS USA opened a fully cooked bacon facility in Moberly, Mo., which has already been through an expansion. In Perry, the fresh sausage plant will provide raw material to this new facility, allowing the company to produce fully cooked sausage items in addition to bacon, supporting ongoing efforts to meet increasing customer demand for these types of products.

With a focus on supporting rural America and investing in its team members, JBS USA will offer its signature Hometown Strong and Better Futures programs in Ankeny. Through Hometown Strong, the company is investing significantly in rural communities across the U.S. and Canada, supporting infrastructure, childcare, housing, schools and more. The Better Futures program provides tuition-free community college for team members and their children.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.

About JBS USA

JBS USA is a leading global food company providing diversified, high-quality products to customers in approximately 100 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, the company produces meat and poultry products, a portfolio of recognized brands and innovative premium foods. JBS USA is also a majority shareholder of Pilgrims, the largest poultry producer in the world. Visit jbsfoodsgroup.com to learn more.

For more information about JBS USA and eventual employment opportunities in Ankeny, visit https://jbsfoodsgroup.com/careers.

Media Contact:

Nikki Richardson

JBS USA Communications

nikki.richardson@jbssa.com
New York, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

ROK Financial Expands Merchant Cash Advance, Working Capital, and Fast Small Business Loan Programs to Deliver Same-Day Business Funding Nationwide

ROK Financial, a leading provider of small business financing solutions, has expanded its Merchant Cash Advance, Working Capital, and alternative business loan programs to give business owners faster, more flexible access to capital. Designed for the more than 33 million small businesses operating across the United States  which collectively employ nearly half of the U.S. workforce  these solutions meet the needs of industries as diverse as retail, construction, e-commerce, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, trades, and professional services.

For many small businesses, access to traditional bank loans has become increasingly difficult due to strict collateral requirements, high credit score minimums, and long approval times. ROK Financials programs address these barriers by providing same-day funding from $10,000 to $5 million, with repayment structures that adjust to match cash flow. Programs are available to companies with as little as four months in operation and require no minimum credit score, opening doors for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional lending.

Business owners can learn more or begin the application process by visiting ROK Financials official funding page.

The Need for Speed in Small Business Financing

The ability to access capital quickly can determine whether a small business seizes a growth opportunity or struggles to cover operational expenses. According to the Federal Reserve, nearly half of small businesses report they would need to find funding within a month or less to manage an unexpected expense. For many owners, traditional bank lending is too slow, requiring weeks of underwriting, extensive documentation, and high credit thresholds.

Merchant Cash Advance and Working Capital programs address these challenges by providing fast, flexible business financing that moves at the pace of modern commerce. Same-day approval and funding in as little as a few hours mean that a retail store can order last-minute holiday inventory, a construction company can purchase materials to start a new project immediately, or a restaurant can repair critical kitchen equipment without losing valuable service days.

This speed is not only critical for growth but also for business continuity. In the event of equipment breakdowns, supply chain disruptions, or emergency facility repairs, immediate access to funding can mean the difference between staying operational and losing valuable revenue days. Seasonal businesses  such as landscaping companies, tax preparation services, and tourism operators  can also benefit by securing capital ahead of their busiest months to maximize earnings potential.

Learn more about how these programs work by visiting ROK Financials Merchant Cash Advance information page.

How Merchant Cash Advance and Working Capital Solutions Work

A Merchant Cash Advance is not a traditional loan with fixed monthly payments. Instead, it provides a lump sum of working capital in exchange for a percentage of a businesss future credit card sales or daily bank deposits. Payments automatically adjust with revenue  higher in busy months, lower when business is slower  making it a flexible solution for managing seasonal cash flow. Unlike bank loans, Merchant Cash Advances do not require collateral, lengthy approval processes, or high credit scores.

Working Capital loans function in a similar way, providing fast access to funds that can be used for virtually any business purpose. This could mean financing a marketing campaign to attract new customers, purchasing equipment to expand production, upgrading technology systems to improve efficiency, or covering payroll during a temporary cash flow gap.

Compared to other financing methods, MCA and Working Capital programs often have shorter application timelines, fewer documentation requirements, and repayment schedules tied to sales performance. For business owners seeking agility, these solutions act as a bridge between cash flow needs and growth objectives without the rigid repayment structures common in conventional lending.

Get started today with ROK Financials pre-approval application.

Flexible Funding from $10,000 to $5 Million

ROK Financials Merchant Cash Advance and Working Capital programs offer funding amounts ranging from $10,000 to $5 million, making them accessible to both small, growing businesses and established companies with larger capital needs. Smaller funding packages can bridge short-term cash flow gaps, cover urgent repairs, or fund seasonal staffing increases. Larger packages can support major investments such as opening new locations, launching large-scale marketing campaigns, purchasing advanced machinery, or securing bulk inventory at discounted rates.

Examples of funding use include:

A restaurant replacing a commercial oven to avoid service disruption.

A construction company purchasing heavy machinery for a large project.

A retail store stocking up on seasonal inventory ahead of a major holiday.

An e-commerce brand investing in a national digital advertising campaign.

A manufacturer upgrading its production line for increased capacity.

The flexibility of these programs is especially valuable to industries with fluctuating revenue patterns. For example, a tourism business may require significant working capital ahead of its high season to invest in marketing and staffing, while an agricultural supplier may need immediate funds to secure seeds, fertilizer, and equipment before planting season begins.

Three-Step Application Process

ROK Financial has simplified the process of securing business funding into three clear steps:

Step 1: Complete a secure online application in just a few seconds. Applicants provide essential details about their business, including revenue, time in operation, and industry type. This quick submission is designed to match business owners with the most relevant financing options without requiring extensive initial documentation.

Step 2: Connect with a dedicated financing advisor who reviews available programs and presents personalized funding solutions. This consultation ensures business owners understand their options, repayment structures, and terms before making a decision.

Step 3: Select the preferred offer and receive funds in as little as 24 hours. There is no obligation to accept an offer, allowing owners to compare options and choose the best fit for their needs. This streamlined approach eliminates unnecessary delays and allows entrepreneurs to focus on running their businesses while securing the capital they need.

Qualification Made Simple

ROK Financials Merchant Cash Advance and Working Capital programs are designed with accessibility in mind. Businesses with as little as four months in operation can apply, provided they generate at least $10,000 in monthly gross sales. There is no minimum FICO score required, making these programs available to owners with strong sales performance but limited or imperfect credit history.

This flexibility opens the door for restaurants with steady daily sales but no collateral, retail shops in their first year of operation, service-based businesses with seasonal income, and contractors who rely on fluctuating project schedules. By focusing on current business performance rather than rigid credit requirements, ROK Financial ensures that more entrepreneurs have a pathway to the funding they need.

Proof Points: Market Trends in Alternative Business Financing

Alternative financing options such as Merchant Cash Advances and Working Capital loans have become increasingly popular as small businesses seek faster, more flexible ways to secure capital. Industry research shows that the U.S. alternative lending market is projected to grow steadily through the decade, driven by demand for quick approvals, adaptable repayment terms, and less restrictive qualification criteria.

For many entrepreneurs, the appeal lies in bypassing the traditional bank loan process, which often involves weeks of review, strict collateral requirements, and high credit score thresholds. Instead, programs like those offered by ROK Financial prioritize revenue performance, making them accessible to a wider range of businesses. As competition across industries intensifies, having rapid access to funding can be a decisive factor in capturing market opportunities.

Social Impact Commitment

ROK Financial is committed not only to supporting business growth but also to making a positive impact in the community. Through its ongoing partnership with Feeding America, the company has provided more than one million meals to families in need. For every successful funding transaction, ROK Financial donates 50 meals to help fight food insecurity in communities across the United States.

This initiative reflects the companys belief that business success and social responsibility go hand in hand. By choosing ROK Financial for their Merchant Cash Advance or Working Capital needs, business owners are also contributing to a broader mission of helping families and strengthening local communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Merchant Cash Advance and a traditional loan?

A Merchant Cash Advance is repaid as a percentage of future sales, which means repayment amounts vary based on revenue. Traditional loans have fixed monthly payments regardless of sales volume.

Can I get business funding with bad credit?

Yes. There is no minimum credit score required for ROK Financials Merchant Cash Advance or Working Capital programs. Approval is based primarily on business performance, including revenue and time in operation.

How quickly can I receive funding?

In many cases, qualified businesses can receive funds the same day they apply, depending on application time and the submission of required information.

What types of businesses qualify?

These programs are available to a wide variety of industries, including restaurants, retail, construction, manufacturing, e-commerce, logistics, healthcare, hospitality, and more.

Can funds be used for any purpose?

Yes. Working capital can be used for expenses such as payroll, inventory, marketing, equipment upgrades, expansion initiatives, or emergency operational needs.

How does repayment work for a Merchant Cash Advance?

Repayment is made automatically by deducting a fixed percentage of your daily or weekly sales until the advance is fully repaid. This means payments are proportionate to revenue, offering flexibility during slower months.

Is there a penalty for early repayment?

Many MCA and Working Capital programs have no prepayment penalties, allowing business owners to pay off their balance early if they choose. Terms vary by agreement, so applicants should confirm details with their financing advisor.

Can start-ups apply?

Yes, businesses with at least four months in operation can qualify, making these programs suitable for newer companies seeking to build momentum.

Do I need to offer collateral?

No. Merchant Cash Advances and Working Capital programs offered by ROK Financial do not require physical collateral, making them an option for businesses without significant assets.

About ROK Financial

ROK Financial is a business financing provider based in Great River, New York. The company specializes in delivering fast, flexible funding solutions tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses across multiple industries. Using a technology-first approach, ROK Financial streamlines the funding process while maintaining a strong focus on customer service. The companys suite of financing products includes Merchant Cash Advance, Working Capital Loans, business lines of credit, equipment financing, SBA loans, and more.

Contact Information

ROK Financial

Phone: (833) 3-ROKBIZ

(833) 3-ROKBIZ Email: info@rok.biz

info@rok.biz Website: https://rok.biz

https://rok.biz Office Hours: Monday  Saturday, 8:00 A.M.  6:00 P.M. (EST)

Disclaimer: The information provided in this release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Funding availability, terms, and conditions are subject to change based on applicant eligibility and underwriting review.
TSX: DIAM

SASKATOON, SK, Aug. 12, 2025 /CNW/ - Star Diamond Corp. ("Star Diamond" or the "Company") reports that unaudited financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, will be filed today on SEDAR+ and may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca once posted.

All amounts are in thousands of Canadian dollars, except common share or per share amounts or as otherwise noted.

Overview

Star Diamond is a Canadian natural resource company focused on exploring and evaluating Saskatchewan's diamond resources. Star Diamond holds a 100% interest in the Fort a la Corne Project, (FALC Project, which includes the Star - Orion South Diamond Project, or the "Project"). These properties are in central Saskatchewan, near established infrastructure, including paved highways and the electrical power grid, which provide significant advantages for future possible mine development.

The Company also holds a 100% interest in the exploration and evaluation properties and assets of the Buffalo Hills Diamond Project (the "BH Project") located approximately 400 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (see "Corporate Developments").

Fort a la Corne mineral properties

The Company currently holds a 100% interest in certain Fort a la Corne ("FALC") kimberlites (see March 26, 2024, news release: Star Diamond Corporation completes acquisition of Rio Tinto's 75% interest in Fort a la Corne Joint Venture) including the Star and Orion South Kimberlites. The FALC mineral properties are located in the Fort a la Corne Provincial Forest, 60 km east of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Highway 55, located to the north of the Project, connects Prince Albert with several towns located directly north of FALC to the town of Nipawin, east of FALC. Highway 6 runs north south and is located to the east of FALC.

Recent activities relating to the Star - Orion South Diamond Project and Fort a la Corne mineral properties

The Revised Mineral Resources estimate (see July 24, 2024 news release: Star - Orion South Diamond Project Revised Mineral Resources Estimate) will now be incorporated into a re-optimized open pit mine plan for the Project, which will include a re-evaluation of Mineral Reserves and an economic assessment based thereon. It is anticipated that this work will be completed during 2025-26 and will result in an updated Pre-feasibility Study including a revised statement of Mineral Reserves for the Project, if warranted, and an economic assessment based thereon.

Buffalo Hills mineral properties

The Company holds a 100% interest in the exploration and evaluation properties and assets of the Buffalo Hills (BH) Project. Located approximately 400 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, the BH Project includes 21 mineral leases covering 4,800 hectares and is a significant and accessible field of diamond-bearing kimberlites, with similarities to the Company's Fort a la Corne kimberlites. The BH Project is located in the Buffalo Hills Kimberlite District, which contains at least 38 individual kimberlite bodies, of which 26 kimberlites are diamond-bearing and a number of which outcrop at surface. Exploration on these kimberlites started in 1996, and small parcels of diamonds have been collected from various exploration programs on many of those considered most prospective.

Corporate Developments

On May 16, 2025, the Company announced that it reached an agreement with Spirit Resources s.a.r.l. ("Spirit") to provide funding to the Company by way of a private placement of units for gross proceeds of $4,000 and an interim $800 unsecured loan. The loan bears interest at 6% per annum and matures upon the earlier of the private placement and the date falling on the 180th day after issuance of the loan, unless extended by Spirit in its sole discretion.

Quarter End Results

For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the Company recorded a net loss of $1,450 or $0.00 per share (2024 - net loss of $1,630 or $0.00 per share). The decrease in net loss was primarily due to the following:

Exploration and evaluation expenditures decreased to $463 in 2025 (2024 - $913). Exploration and evaluation expenditures incurred during 2025 were primarily due to security and maintenance, continued diamond analyses, and test work for the FALC Project.

Corporate development decreased to $19 in 2025 (2024 - $136) due to reduced marketing and publications issued in 2025.

Change in derivative liability increased to a loss of $218 in 2025 (2024 - $nil) due to the changes in the fair values of the embedded derivatives of the convertible debentures.

Year to Date Results

For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company recorded a net loss of $2,416 or $0.00 per share (2024 - net loss of $2,516 or $0.00 per share). The decrease in net loss was primarily due to the following:

Exploration and evaluation expenditures decreased to $930 in 2025 (2024 - $1,202). Exploration and evaluation expenditures incurred during 2025 were primarily due to security and maintenance, continued diamond analyses, and test work for the FALC Project.

Corporate development decreased to $32 in 2025 (2024 - $274) due to reduced marketing and publications issued in 2025.

Loss on investment in Wescan Goldfields Inc. decreased to $nil in 2025 (2024 - loss of $58).

Unwinding of discount of environmental rehabilitation provision increased to $132 in 2025 (2024 - $65).

Change in derivative liability increased to a loss of $218 in 2025 (2024 - $nil) due to the changes in the fair values of the embedded derivatives of the convertible debentures.

On June 30, 2025, the Company had $452 (December 31, 2024 - $164) in cash and cash equivalents and a working capital deficit (excess of current liabilities over current assets) of $1,692 (2024 - working capital deficit of $1,017). The increase in working capital deficit was a result of the unsecured loan payable to Spirit and net cash used in operating activities, offset by proceeds received from convertible debentures and sale of shares in Wescan Goldfields Inc. In 2025, the Company initiated the following cost reductions:

We have moved our head office to a smaller area in the same building resulting in a 70% drop in our office lease payments;

Certain management/employee functions have been reduced or eliminated; and

Site costs have been significantly reduced as operations moved to a care and maintenance basis.

A budget has been prepared for the completion of the PFS of $3,000 which is subject to the completion of a financing.

However, the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern and fund its expenses in an orderly manner will require additional forms of financing. There can be no assurance that the Company will succeed in obtaining additional financing, now or in the future. Failure to raise additional financing on a timely basis could cause the Company to suspend its operations and planned activities.

Selected financial highlights include:

Selected financial information of the Company for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 is summarized as follows:



Three months ended June 30, 2025 $ Three months ended June 30, 2024 $ Six months ended June 30, 2025 $ Six months Ended June 30, 2024 $ Net loss (1,450) (1,630) (2,416) (2,516) Net loss per share (1) (0.00) (0.00) (0.00) (0.00) Current assets 528 1,882 528 1,882 Total assets 14,115 16,326 14,115 16,326 Current liabilities 2,220 912 2,220 912 Total non-current liabilities 8,473 7,704 8,473 7,704 Working capital (deficit) (1,692) 970 (1,692) 970

(1) Basic and diluted.

Summary of Quarterly Result



2025 2024 2023

Qtr 2 Qtr 1 Qtr 4 Qtr 3 Qtr 2 Qtr 1 Qtr 4 Qtr 3 Total assets ($ millions) 14.1 14.3 14.4 16.2 16.3 19.5 1.2 1.3 Total liabilities ($ millions) 10.7 9.8 9.2 8.7 8.6 10.2 1.0 0.7 Expense ($ millions) 1.1 0.9 1.1 1.3 1.5 0.9 1.0 0.6 Net loss ($ millions) 1.5 1.0 2.0 1.4 1.6 0.9 1.0 0.6 Net loss per share (1) ($) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Shares outstanding (millions) 623.3 617.8 617.6 611.5 599.9 494.8 482.7 476.4

(1) Basic and diluted.

Outlook

Fort a la Corne mineral properties

Star Diamond's technical team will focus on the technical investigation and evaluation of the Star - Orion South Diamond Project, with the goal of a future development decision. The initial work was completed in 2024 with a revised Mineral Resource estimate for the Star - Orion South Diamond Project, which will form the foundation of an updated Prefeasibility Study ("PFS"). The PFS will enable a Feasibility Study, on which a production decision can be based.

Buffalo Hills mineral properties

Management continues to review the recent results from the diamond valuation and typing analysis with a view to possible work programs and a potential path forward for the asset. A more detailed update on activities at Buffalo Hills will be provided as it becomes available.

About Star Diamond Corporation

Star Diamond is a Canadian natural resource company focused on exploring and evaluating Saskatchewan's diamond resources. Star Diamond holds a 100% interest in the Fort a la Corne Project, (FALC Project, which includes the Star - Orion South Diamond Project, or the "Project"). These properties are in central Saskatchewan, near established infrastructure, including paved highways and the electrical power grid, which provide significant advantages for future possible mine development.

The Company also holds a 100% interest in the exploration and evaluation properties of the Buffalo Hills Diamond Project (the "BH Project") located approximately 400 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (see "Corporate Developments").

Technical Information

All technical information in this press release has been prepared under the supervision of Mark Shimell, VP Exploration, Professional Geoscientist in the Province of Saskatchewan, who is the Company's "Qualified Person" under NI 43-101.

Stay Connected with Us:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StarDiamondCorp

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/star-diamond-corp

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Star-Diamond-Corp/100058096376664/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stardiamondcorp/

Caution Regarding Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and/or "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes", or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results, "may", "could", "would", "will", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements are based on Star Diamond's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to Star Diamond and involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific. Risks exist that forward-looking statements will not be achieved due to a number of factors including, but not limited to, statements regarding Rio Tinto Canada, the Company's ability to obtain financing to further the exploration, evaluation and/or development of exploration and evaluation properties in which the Company holds interest, the economic feasibility of any future development projects, developments in world diamond markets, changes in diamond prices, risks relating to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar and other currencies relative to the US dollar, the impact of changes in the laws and regulations regulating mining exploration, development, closure, judicial or regulatory judgments and legal proceedings, operational and infrastructure risks and the additional risks described in Star Diamond's most recently filed Annual Information Form, and annual and interim MDA.

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. In addition, forward-looking statements are provided solely for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of our operating environment. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof and Star Diamond assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

SOURCE Star Diamond Corporation
VANCOUVER, Aug. 12, 2025 - Imperial Metals Corp. ("Imperial" or the "Company") (TSX:III) reports that an exploration drill hole, drilling a blind target through clastic cover rocks, intercepted a hydrothermal breccia hosting significant visual native copper at the unconformity with the Mount Polley Intrusive Complex (MPIC). Two intercepts in diamond drill hole FP-25-01 of 7.0 metres grading 0.70% copper and 0.27 g/t gold starting at 383.0 metres, and 20.0 metres grading 0.25% copper and 0.96 g/t gold starting at 417.5 metres, mark the discovery of significant mineralization in a major step-out. The drill hole was collared 4.15 kilometres north of the operating Mount Polley mill (see Figure 1).

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Width (m) Copper (%) Gold (g/t) Copper

Oxide

Ratio(% )* FP-25-01 383.0 390.0 7.0 0.70 0.27 9% and 417.5 437.5 20.0 0.25 0.96 9%

*Copper Oxide Ratio % = (CuOx%/Total Cu%)*100

Hole FP-25-01 was drilled 1.2 kilometres north-northwest from the previously mined Wight Pit (Northeast Zone) where some of the highest copper grade ore has been mined at Mount Polley. FP-25-01 was oriented at an azimuth of 210 with a dip of -60 and collared into a conglomerate unit that lies over the MPIC (see Figure 2). The blind target was generated through interpretation of a structural corridor that extends north-northwest from the Northeast Zone and coincides with two geophysical anomalies. Geophysical surveys overlapping the structural corridor reveal a 3-Dimensional Induced Polarization chargeability response and overlapping magnetic high. Drilling through the post-MPIC cover conglomerate unit intersected an unconformable contact with the MPIC at 378.9 metres down hole (348 metres vertical depth from surface). The rock below 378.9 metres consisted of brecciated and carbonate healed MPIC monzonite-monzodiorite with native copper until 414.7 metres. This was followed by additional hydrothermal breccia displaying strong magnetite alteration and good chalcopyrite mineralization until 437.5 metres. The magnetite-rich breccia continued to 590 metres down hole.

The mineralization encountered in FP-25-01 is significant for the following reasons:

Intercept is 390 metres away from the nearest known mineralized hit.

The dominance of native copper in this intercept is unique and opens up the question of whether other, similar style mineralization is in the area.

The high gold-copper ratio in the lower intercept starting at 417.5 metres, is distinctly different from metal ratios observed in other zones in this part of the property.

The series of mineralized zones that occur along the interpreted structural corridor occur over a linear distance of over 1,500 metres. The link between mineralization and the structure will be further investigated.

The extent of non-copper-gold bearing magnetite breccia below 437.5 metres is a clear sign of extensive hydrothermal activity well north of the exposed MPIC and provides support for further exploration targeting in the surrounding area.

Figure 1: Location Plan Map showing the area of Boundary Zone and Wight Pit relative to the new diamond drill hole FP-25-01. Also shown is the section line A - A' which controls the location of Figure 2.

Drilling continued after the drill results reported in the May 22, 2025 News Release with 16 additional drill holes designed to aid in expanding the resource in the gold-rich C2 Zone, and 2 holes in the pit to provide detailed information to support mine planning. Diamond drilling at Mount Polley has been suspended for now.

Figure 2 - Section A - A' showing the interpreted geology and closest Company drilling to the location of FP-25-01. Looking West

Jim Miller-Tait, P.Geo., Imperial's VP Exploration, has reviewed this news release as the designated Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for the Mount Polley exploration program. Samples reported were analyzed at Activation Laboratories Ltd. located in Kamloops. Due to the presence of native copper selected samples were analyzed by copper metallic screen method. A full QA/QC program using blanks, standards and duplicates was completed for all diamond drilling samples submitted to the labs. Significant assay intervals reported represent apparent widths. Insufficient geological information is available to confirm the geological model and true width of significant assay intervals.

About Imperial

Imperial is a Vancouver based exploration, mine development and operating company with holdings that include the Mount Polley mine (100%), the Huckleberry mine (100%), and the Red Chris mine (30%). Imperial also holds a portfolio of 23 exploration properties in British Columbia.

Company Contacts

Brian Kynoch | President | 604.669.8959

Jim Miller-Tait | VP Exploration | jim.miller-tait@imperialmetals.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this news release are not statements of historical fact and are "forward-looking" statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the Company's management's expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company's expectations with respect to current and planned exploration drilling programs at Mount Polley and timing thereof, specifically with respect to the future plans to investigate the new mineralization encountered in FP-25-01 and the potential link to a structural corridor that extends north-northwest from the Northeast Zone; the potential for mineralization to be converted from resource to reserve; the potential for extension of mine life; and the impact of drilling on future pit designs and mine life schedule. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "outlook", "budget", "scheduled", "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", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative of these terms or comparable terminology. By their very nature forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on information currently available to the Company as well as the Company's current beliefs and assumptions. These factors and assumptions and beliefs and assumptions include the risk factors detailed from time to time in the Company's annual information form, interim and annual financial statements and management's discussion and analysis of those statements, all of which are filed and available for review on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict. 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 and all forward-looking statements in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/96c75196-430e-4d3e-b53e-f4837f155816

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3599aaa7-f9f8-4023-81d3-dae7317ee555
HIGHLIGHTS

Firm commitments received to raise A$30 million via bought deal at market

Placement driven by demand from leading, high-quality long only offshore institutional investors

The proceeds will enable Benz to accelerate drilling at Glenburgh following up the emerging bulk tonnage gold system at Icon and the exciting high grade gold trend at Zone 126

4 rigs have been locked in, with drilling expected to be ongoing and aggressively ramped up

Benz is well-funded with a pro-forma cash position of over $40 million following completion of the Placement1

Vancouver, August 12, 2025 - Benz Mining Corp. (TSXV: BZ) (ASX: BNZ) (Benz or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has received firm commitments for a placement of 30,456,853 new fully paid CHESS Depositary Interests (CDIs) in the Company via a bought deal at an issue price of A$0.985 per CDI to raise A$30 million (before costs) (Placement).

The Placement was driven by strong demand from leading, high-quality offshore institutional investors, and was also supported by its existing large institutional shareholders. Benz's share register is now well-positioned with a broad range of long-only institutional shareholders who have demonstrated their support for the Company's strategy of aggressive exploration to fast track resource growth.

Benz Chair, Mr Evan Cranston, commented:

"This is a transformational capital raising for Benz which will position the Company to significantly increase its exploration activities at the Glenburgh Project, following recent drilling successes at the Icon Prospect and at Zone 126.

"To have had such strong cornerstone demand from two leading offshore institutional funds who share our excitement and vision with the new exploration strategy at Glenburgh is extremely pleasing. The new discoveries at the Icon Apollo trend deserve their own dedicated rigs to rapidly unlock the size and scale of the emerging bulk tonnage system. The remaining rigs will continue to target high grade ounces along the Zone 126 trend and scout out new and exciting untested priority targets along out 18km mineralised trend.

"The demand received from these institutions, together with our existing large institutional shareholders, is seen as a strong endorsement of our recent discoveries and the exploration potential that remains within our belt-scale tenure.

"With a strengthened pro-forma balance sheet of A$40m1 in cash, Benz is well funded to deliver a step change in exploration activities at Glenburgh, doubling drilling capacity to four rigs to fast track resource growth across multiple high priority targets.

"As we move into the next exciting chapter for the Company, I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome our new shareholders to the register and thank our exiting holders for their continued support."

Use of Funds

Proceeds from the Placement will enable Benz to accelerate exploration across its gold portfolio, with a focus on its 100%-owned Glenburgh Gold Project in Western Australia - a new frontier gold district with multi-million-ounce potential.

Funding will be applied towards:

Glenburgh Gold Project (WA): Increasing drilling capacity to four rigs to accelerate testing of the emerging bulk-tonnage gold system at the Icon deposit, the high-grade Zone 126 trend, and other priority targets. Geological modelling, including detailed televiewer interpretation, to deliver a resource model that honours Glenburgh's folded and metamorphosed geometry. Progress towards an updated Mineral Resource Estimate once the majority of planned drilling is complete, ensuring it reflects the full scale of the Project's potential.

Mt Egerton Gold Project (WA): Exploration targeting high-grade near-surface mineralisation through RC drilling, mapping, and geochemical surveys.

Eastmain Gold Mine (Quebec, Canada): Scoping Study to assess early-stage technical and economic development options for the high-grade resource.

General: Working capital and corporate costs.



Placement Details

The Placement was undertaken at an issue price of A$0.985, being the closing share price on the ASX on Friday, 8 August 2025.

The Company will issue 30,406,091 CDIs under its existing placement capacity under ASX Listing Rule 7.1 (Tranche 1 Placement).

A Director of the Company intends to subscribe for 50,762 CDIs (A$50,000) in the Placement (Tranche 2 Placement), subject to shareholder approval at a general meeting that will be held in due course.

It is anticipated that settlement of the Tranche 1 Placement will occur on Wednesday, 20 August 2025 and the CDIs will be allotted and commence trading on Thursday, 21 August 2025. The Tranche 2 Placement is expected to complete in early October 2025. The Placement CDIs will rank equally with existing CDIs from the date of issue.

Euroz Hartleys Limited acted as Lead Manager to the Placement.

This announcement has been approved for release by the Board.

About Benz Mining Corp.

Benz Mining Corp. (TSXV: BZ) (ASX: BNZ) is a pure-play gold exploration company dual-listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and Australian Securities Exchange. The Company owns the Eastmain Gold Project in Quebec, and the recently acquired Glenburgh and Mt Egerton Gold Projects in Western Australia.

Benz's key point of difference lies in its team's deep geological expertise and the use of advanced geological techniques, particularly in high-metamorphic terrane exploration. The Company aims to rapidly grow its global resource base and solidify its position as a leading gold explorer across two of the world's most prolific gold regions.

The Glenburgh Gold Project features a Historical (for the purposes of NI 43-101) Mineral Resource Estimate of 16.3Mt at 1.0 g/t Au (510,100 ounces of contained gold)2. A technical report prepared under NI 43-101- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Glenburgh - Egerton Gold Project, Western Australia" with an effective date of 16 December 2024 has been filed with the TSX Venture Exchange and is available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Eastmain Gold Project in Quebec hosts a Mineral Resource Estimate dated effective May 24, 2023 and prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and JORC (2012) of 1,005,000 ounces at 6.1g/t Au3, also available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca, showcasing Benz's focus on high-grade, high-margin assets in premier mining jurisdictions.





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1818/262316_7450fd1d84517b6d_001full.jpg

For more information, please visit: https://benzmining.com/.

Qualified Person's Statement (NI 43-101)

The disclosure of scientific or technical information in this news release is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr Mark Lynch-Staunton, who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and a Member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) (Membership ID: 6918). Mr Lynch-Staunton has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr Lynch-Staunton owns securities in Benz Mining Corp.

Historical Mineral Resource Estimates

All mineral resource estimates in respect of the Glenburgh Gold Project in this news release are considered to be "historical estimates" as defined under NI 43-101. These historical estimates are not considered to be current and are not being treated as such. These estimates have been prepared in accordance with the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia (JORC Code) and have not been reported in accordance with NI 43-101. A qualified person (as defined in NI 43-101) (Qualified Person) has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates as current mineral resources. A Qualified Person would need to review and verify the scientific information and conduct an analysis and reconciliation of historical data in order to verify the historical estimates as current mineral resources.

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) as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, disclosure regarding the acquisition of the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects as well as certain tenements adjacent thereto and the anticipated benefits thereof, planned exploration and related activities on the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of words and phrases or variations of such words and phrases or statements such as "anticipates", "complete", "become", "expects", "next steps", "commitments" and "potential", in relation to certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "will", "would", be achieved. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, that the tenements associate with the Glenburgh and Mt Egerton projects that are still pending grant or undergoing the renewal process will be granted and/or renewed, as applicable, in the timely manner and on reasonable terms, and all conditions precedent to completion of the acquisitions will be satisfied, in a timely manner; the Company will be able to raise additional capital as necessary; the current exploration, development, environmental and other objectives concerning the Company's Projects (including Glenburgh and Mt Egerton) can be achieved; and the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions, and operations.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, that occurrences such as those referred to above are realized and result in delays, or cessation in planned work, that the Company's financial condition and development plans change, and delays in regulatory approval, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and www.asx.com.au. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. The Forward-looking information in this news release is based on plans, expectations, and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE.

1 Based on Benz's closing cash of A$10m as at 30 June 2025 and adjusted for gross Placement proceeds (excludes transaction costs).

2 Indicated: 13.5Mt at 1.0g/t Au for 430.7koz; Inferred: 2.8Mt at 0.9g/t Au for 79.4koz. See Historical Mineral Resource Estimates, below

3 Indicated: 1.3Mt at 9.0g/t Au for 384koz; Inferred: 3.8Mt at 5.1g/t Au for 621koz

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262316
VANCOUVER, August 13, 2025 - Vertical Exploration Inc. (TSXV:VERT) ("Vertical"or "the Company") is pleased to report that it has received funds for its first 2025 offtake agreement for the Company's premium-quality Global Wollastonite. Having recently received a five-year permit for its branded Global Wollastonite Agricultural Calcium Silicate product, Vertical is now in a position to seek orders of the product produced at the Company's St-Onge quarry in Quebec the St-Onge wollastonite quarry.

Vertical has now finalized an initial offtake sales agreement with a local Lac-Saint-Jean farmer and entrepreneur ("the Buyer") for the purchase of up to 69 tonnes of the Company's wollastonite. The agreement also grants the Buyer the option to purchase additional quantities under similar terms if the initial volume is sold within the first year. Additionally, the Buyer will support further research into new product applications and actively promote Vertical's wollastonite to agricultural producers in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, with no exclusivity obligations on Vertical's part.

Peter P. Swistak, President/CEO of Vertical Exploration Inc., commented: "We are very excited to have completed our first 2025 sale and to now be working with a Buyer that understands both the unique characteristics of our Global wollastonite and the advantages of having a locally sourced green soil amendment as well as one that is also focused on supporting and providing the local agricultural community with top-quality natural fertilizers that will benefit both their agricultural crops and the surrounding environment.

Vertical also wishes to inform its shareholders that it continues to receive, and respond to, numerous enquiries and widespread local interest regarding its premium Global Wollastonite from a variety of potential buyers, end users and distributors. The potential market demand for wollastonite from farmers and agricultural producers in the local Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region alone could be in excess of 640,000 metric tonnes (please see May 9th, 2019 Vertical press release and Agrinova December 2018 Wollastonite Report), which is enough to far outstrip the 100,000 tonnes per year production level that the Company is currently permitted for at St-Onge. Vertical will continue to keep its shareholders and stakeholders regularly updated on further potential offtake and sales agreements in the months ahead."

ABOUT WOLLASTONITE

Wollastonite is a powerful, natural soil enhancer that delivers plant-available silicon and calcium-two essential nutrients that strengthen crops, boost yields, and improve resistance to pests, disease, and environmental stress. With its mild liming effect, it helps neutralize acidic soils while also improving structure, water retention, and root development. Safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly, wollastonite even supports carbon sequestration, making it a smart, sustainable choice for modern agriculture.

ABOUT VERTICAL EXPLORATION

Vertical Exploration's mission is to identify, acquire, and advance high potential mining prospects located in North America for the benefit of its stakeholders. The Company's flagship 100% owned St-Onge Wollastonite property is located in the Lac-Saint-Jean area in the Province of Quebec.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Peter P. Swistak, President/CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Telephone: 1-604-683-3995

Toll Free: 1-888-945-4770

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com).

SOURCE: Vertical Exploration Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
VANCOUVER, Aug. 13, 2025 - Latin Metals Inc. ("Latin Metals" or the "Company") - (TSXV: LMS) (OTCQB: LMSQF) is pleased to announce that its 100% owned subsidiary Zafiro Mining S.A.C. has acquired additional mineral rights contiguous to the Para copper project ("Para" or the "Project") in southern Peru. This acquisition expands the Project to the south and secures coverage over key drill targets (Figures 1 and 2).

Key Takeaways:

New Land Secured: Strategic acquisition of 300 hectares completes consolidation of 100%-owned Para Project

Drill Targets Defined: Multiple walk-up porphyry copper targets identified

Next Step Permitting: Drill permit process will start; Latin Metals is seeking an option partner to fund and operate

Tier-1 Location: Para is situated in Peru's Coastal Copper Belt with access to infrastructure and port facilities

Low-Cost Acquisition: New claim acquired for US$20,000 with no royalty obligations



Exploration data collected by Latin Metals, combined with historic data purchased from Vale Exploration Peru S.A.C. ("Vale") (previous news release NR25-02, dated February 10, 2025), a wholly owned subsidiary of Vale Canada Limited, has been instrumental in defining multiple high-priority drill targets across the Para Project (Figures 1, 2, and 3). Vale previously completed target definition and secured drill permits but never conducted drilling.

"Our exploration team initially identified the Para project in 2023 through analysis of regional geochemical data," stated Keith Henderson, President and CEO. "The integration of Vale's comprehensive exploration data has allowed us to define clear porphyry-style drill targets. This new acquisition finalizes the consolidation of a high-quality, 100%-owned land position. We plan to initiate drill permitting shortly and are actively seeking a partner to fund and advance the project."





Figure 1: Results of Latin Metals' geochemical talus sampling survey showing favorable chemical zonation interpreted as centering on a porphyry system. Proximal and coincident copper and molybdenum anomalies are interpreted to overlie a porphyry system, and coincident zinc and lead anomalies are distal, surrounding the core copper-molybdenum anomalies. This pattern is typical of porphyry systems. New property acquisition shown.





Figure 2: Left. Geological mapping completed by Vale together with outlines of Vale's geophysical Induced Polarization and Magnetic surveys. Right. Map combining results of geochemical rock sampling completed by Latin Metals and Vale. The cross-section A-B references Figure 3. New property acquisition shown.

Acquisition Details

The newly acquired 300-hectare claim lies directly south of the current Para property (Figures 1 and 2). It was purchased for US$20,000 in cash and is held 100% by Latin Metals, with no underlying royalties.

Project History

The Para Copper Project was previously explored by Vale Exploration Peru S.A.C. between 2013 and 2017. During this time, Vale conducted extensive groundwork, including geological mapping, collection of 282 geochemical rock samples, and completion of 18 line-kilometers of Induced Polarization (IP) geophysics, along with 44 line-kilometers of ground magnetic and radiometric surveys. Vale identified four priority drill targets totaling approximately 2,500 meters and secured a drill permit for the proposed program; however, no drilling was completed. Latin Metals acquired the project in 2023 and has since validated and expanded on Vale's work through its own systematic geochemical sampling and interpretation, confirming the presence of multiple porphyry-style targets.





Figure 3: Cross section A-B. Drill holes shown were historically proposed and permitted by Vale but never drilled. Low magnetic susceptibility is interpreted as Phyllic alteration. High chargeability anomalies are interpreted to represent disseminated sulphide associated with a porphyry system. High resistivity is interpreted to result from silica within altered rocks. See Figure 2 for location of section.

Para Copper Project Background

The Para Copper Project is situated within Peru's Coastal Copper Belt. This belt hosts several major deposits, and is known for its favorable geology, including porphyry copper systems. The region also offers exceptional infrastructure - with highway access, nearby power lines, and proximity to Pacific ports - making it highly attractive for exploration and potential mine development. Para now spans 2,200 hectares and is 100%-owned by Latin Metals.

QA/QC

The work program at Latin Metals' Para project was designed and supervised by Eduardo Leon, the Company's Vice President of Exploration, who oversees all aspects of operations, including quality control and quality assurance (QC/QA). A total of 208 talus samples were collected from 40 cm  40 cm sampling areas, with a spacing of approximately 300-350 meters across the property. On-site personnel meticulously collected and tracked the samples, which were then securely sealed. The first batch of 56 samples was shipped to ALS Laboratory in Lima for multi-element analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), adhering to industry standards. The second batch of 152 samples was analyzed on-site using an Olympus Vanta C pXRF device. The gridded talus data integrates results from both surveys.

Data purchased from Vale was collected by Vale and was not supervised by Latin Metals staff. The data includes typical and appropriate geochemical quality control data including blanks, duplicates and standards. Geophysical data was collected and interpreted by third party contractors retained by Vale and appropriate quality control was utilized.

Qualified Person

Eduardo Leon, QP, is the Company's qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release. He has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Leon is not independent of the Company, as he is an officer of the Company and holds securities of the Company.

About Latin Metals

Latin Metals Inc. is a copper, gold and silver exploration company operating in Peru and Argentina under a prospect generator model, minimizing risk and dilution while maximizing discovery potential. With 18 projects, the company secures option agreements with major mining companies to fund exploration. This approach provides early-stage exposure to high-value mineral assets.

Vale Data Purchase Agreement

Under the terms of a data purchase agreement, Vale delivered a comprehensive package of exploration data covering Latin Metals' 100%-owned Para copper project ("Para") and extending to the surrounding area. As consideration for the exploration data, the Company granted a time-limited Right of First Offer to Vale, which will become valid on completion of a prefeasibility study and expire in 2035.

Stay Connected

Follow Latin Metals on YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram to stay informed on our latest developments, exploration updates, and corporate news.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

LATIN METALS INC.

"Keith Henderson"

President & CEO

For further details on the Company, readers are referred to the Company's web site (www.latin-metals.com) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

For further information, please contact:

Keith Henderson

Suite 890 - 999 West Hastings Street,

Vancouver, BC, V6C 2W2

E-mail: info@latin-metals.com

Elyssia Patterson, VP Investor Relations

Email: elyssia@latin-metals.com

Phone: 778-683-4324

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 news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, the anticipated content, commencement, timing and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Property and otherwise, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, and the Company's expectation that it will be able to enter into agreements to acquire interests in additional mineral properties, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves on the Properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious and base metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Company's Argentine projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Company projects, and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities at the Properties, including the geological mapping, prospecting and sampling programs being proposed for the Properties (the "Programs"), actual results of exploration activities, including the Programs, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, the availability of a sufficient supply of water and other materials, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals and copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, any current or future property acquisitions, financing or other planned activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, hedging practices, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual management's discussion and analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05560542-d1f1-4b8f-abb7-397ffb387523



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/01e907c4-3cc8-4c6f-a8ef-0d8f330b499a



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94d8c435-a76a-4ac9-93f8-4976dc7da6ca
Key Highlights

Structural and geological field mapping campaign expected to commence late this month to define high priority rare earth elements (REE) and antimony target areas.

Four priority areas to be mapped with two focusing on REE potential within the North Block of the Mojave Project and two targeting strike extensions from mineralization identified at the Desert Antimony Prospect.

Planning and contractor engagement underway for focused magnetic, radiometric and gravity surveys to provide additional high-resolution data sets for target refinement and prioritization.

North Block offers significant potential for further polymetallic discoveries across its underexplored 20 sq km, expanding the critical minerals footprint of the Mojave Project.

Technical team advancing high priority targets to build on established REE potential at El Campo.

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Locksley Resources Ltd. (ASX: LKY; OTCQB: LKYRF) announced it will commence an expanded geological and structural mapping program within the North Block of the Mojave Project in California. The field program, expected to commence later this month, will focus on expanding knowledge gained from the recent structural mapping program completed at the Desert Antimony Prospect. Additionally, it will include regional mapping across prospective areas within the North Block claims with potential for REE mineralization. Additional details can be found here: https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02977959-6A1278092&v=4a466cc3f899e00730cfbfcd5ab8940c41f474b6.

These new mapping target areas complement the established prospect at El Campo, which has high grade rock chip results of up to 12.1% TREO and Nd/Pr up to 3.19%. "The program is set to expand REE potential into the North Block, which lies immediately adjacent to MP Materials' Mountain Pass Mine, the only rare earths mine currently operating in the U.S.," said Nathan Lude, chairman of Locksley Resources. He added that the recent decision by both the U.S. Department of Defense and Apple to make strategic investments in MP Materials highlight the recognition by government and industry of the importance of and need for critical minerals located within the U.S.

The additional field mapping programs are expected to provide additional field data that may provide new REE targets for follow up later in the year.

About Locksley Resources Limited

Locksley Resources is an Australian-based explorer focused on critical minerals and base metals, with assets in both the United States and Australia. The company is actively advancing exploration of its US asset. The Mojave Project in California, targeting rare earth elements (REEs) and antimony, is located in the Mojave Desert in California and comprises more than 250 claims. The North Block area directly abuts claims held by MP Materials, while El Campo lies along strike of the Mountain Pass Mine and is enveloped by MP Materials' claims. In addition to rare earths, the Mojave Project hosts the historic "Desert Antimony Mine," which last operated in 1937. Despite the United States currently having limited domestic antimony production, demand for the metal runs high due to its essential role in defense systems, semiconductors and metal alloys. Locksley's position is strengthened by rising geopolitical urgency to diversify supply chains away from China, the global leader in both REE and antimony production. The Company's Mojave Project is uniquely positioned to align with U.S. strategic objectives around critical mineral independence and economic security. More information can be found at the company's website: https://www.locksleyresources.com.au.

Contact: Beverly Jedynak, Beverly.jedynak@viriathus.com, 312-943-1123; 773-350-5793

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/locksley-to-expand-exploration-of-rare-earths-potential-in-mojave-north-block-302528855.html

SOURCE Locksley Resources
HALIFAX, August 13, 2025 - Silver Tiger Metals Inc. (TSXV:SLVR)(OTCQX:SLVTF) ("Silver Tiger" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce preliminary results from its 2025 Summer Exploration Program on the prospective Northern Veins, located 2 kilometers North of the historic El Tigre Mine and outlines initial exploration plans to test several undrilled greenfield areas on the Southern Veins on its 100% owned, silver-gold El Tigre Project (the "Project" or "El Tigre") located in Sonora, Mexico. Current exploration work consists of mapping and sampling both surface and historic underground workings to define drill ready targets for Q4-2025.

Glenn Jessome, President & CEO stated "As we get nearer to making a construction decision for the open pit portion of the El Tigre Project and with our technical team nearing completion of the underground PEA in coming weeks, we are advancing our summer exploration program. We are currently exploring the prospective area north of the historic El Tigre Mine through focused mapping and sampling of both historic core and underground workings. We will soon begin similar exploration on the Southern Veins."

Mr. Jessome further stated, "The Northern Veins, a faulted offset of the veins at the historic El Tigre Mine, show the same structure, mineralogy, grades and orientations as the well-defined veins around the historic El Tigre Mine on which our PFS and pending underground PEA are based. With the initial 10 kilometers of mapped vein strike length we have to the North and recent assay results we are disclosing today, we see the potential to drill these Northern Veins in our Winter 2025 program."

Exploration Objectives 2025

Begin drilling on Northern Veins in Q4-2025

Generate drill targets in the Southern Veins at Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro through analysis of old mining works

With 25 kilometers of mapped vein strike complete, which is 50% of the project area, the Corporation intends to increase mapping coverage to 70%

Overview - Veins

The El Tigre historic mine district is located in Sonora, Mexico and lies at the northern end of the Sierra Madre silver and gold belt which hosts many epithermal silver and gold deposits, including Dolores, Santa Elena and Las Chispas. The high-grade epithermal veins dip steeply to the west, and are typically 0.5 metres wide, and locally can be up to 5 metres in width. Over 25 kilometers of these veins at El Tigre have been mapped along strike on surface. Based on the extensive historic workings, the veins are inferred to extend to more than 450 metres depth with many veins reaching strike length of 3 kilometers or more. At the El Tigre property there are both brownfields and greenfields targets defined by extensive Silver Tiger drilling. Silver Tiger has found over 60 small-scale workings in addition to the historic El Tigre Mine.

The El Tigre Mine Veins contain over 90% of the Corporation's Measured and Indicated Resource and is the focus area of the PFS and pending PEA. The El Tigre Vein, the Seitz Kelly Vein and the Sooy Vein (the "El Tigre Mine Veins") have over 10 kilometers of combined vein strike length of which only 50% is drill tested. Gold was first discovered in 1896 with mining beginning soon after on the El Tigre Mine Veins (Figure 1). Significant underground mining took place with over 32 kilometers of development completed before mine closure with a reported 353,000 ounces of gold and 67.4 million ounces of silver extracted at an average grade of over 2 kilograms silver equivalent per ton.The Corporation's Drill Hole ET-21-264, returned assays up to 82,827.3 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres proximal to historically mining stopes, showing high-grade vein mineralization continues at depth and along strike (see the Corporation's press release dated Nov 9, 2021).

Figure 1: El Tigre Project - Northern and Southern Exploration Targets

The Northern Vein Area has over 10 kilometers of combined strike length confirmed by surface mapping and sampling, drilling and the presence of underground workings mainly on the Fundadora, Protectora and Caleigh Veins. This area is considered brownfields with 15% of the mapped strike of veins being drilled. These veins are the faulted offset of the El Tigre Mine Veins and exhibit the same structure, mineralogy, grades, orientations, strike length and width (1-2 metres) as the well-defined El Tigre Mine Veins that account for bulk of the Corporation's Mineral Resource Estimate.

The Southern Veins which includes Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro is considered greenfields with veins striking for over 10 kilometers and no drilling ever conducted on this area. This prospective area is evidenced by historic workings and high-grade channel sampling. The El Toro, Lluvia de Oro and La Mancha Veins are hosted in the El Tigre Formation, a permissive formation that is the host for the Stockwork Zone, which is the basis of the Company's PFS (see the Corporation's Press Release dated October 22, 2024).

Figure 2: Current Sampling of Historic Workings - Northern Veins

Northern Veins - 2025 Summer Exploration Plan - Brownfields Targets

Exploration crews have begun to locate, catalog, map and sample historic adits and drifts in the Northern Veins (Figure 2). This work is aimed at confirming the geological similarities of the Northern Vein mineralized systems to the well-established El Tigre, Seitz-Kelly and Sooy Veins. Once assessment of the historic workings is complete all adits and drifts will be scanned with a LiDAR-capable drone. For the remainder of the summer, Silver Tiger will continue to define targets to drill in Q4-2025.

After surveying the tunnels, the geologists mapped the veins and then collected chip samples across the veins at intervals between 3 to 5 metres along the length of the tunnel. The samples were chipped with a rock hammer across the face of the vein exposed in the tunnel. The minimum length of the samples was 0.50 metres, and the samples weighed approximately 3 to 5 kg. Sampling was stopped at either the end of the tunnel or when access was restricted due to ground conditions. Of the 110 chip samples collected, the chip sample assay results received to date are set out in the table below (see Table 1 and Figure 2 for Sample Location).

As work progresses on the Northern Veins, exploration crews will begin analysing Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro on the Southern Veins.

Table 1: Significant Channel Samples on Northern Veins

Vein Channel ID Samples From To Interval(1) Sample # Au Ag AgEq(2) m m m g/t g/t g/t Fundadora ETL-2078 Composite: ETS-4847/4848/4849 0.0 1.6 1.6 3 0.15 464 476 Fundadora ETL-2078 Including: ETS-4849 1.1 1.6 0.5 1 0.24 654 672 Fundadora ETL-2079 Composite: ETS-4853/4853 0.0 0.8 0.8 2 0.40 95 118

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

Reconnaissance drilling was conducted on the Northern veins by the Company in 2017 and 2020, before shifting focus to the development of the El Tigre Mine Veins. Significant veins were consistently intercepted in the North (Table 2) proving the continuity and grade seen in the underground historic workings. Anaconda (c. 1982-83) completed a 250 metre exploration drift on the Northern Veins (Figure 4).

Table 2: Historic Significant Intercepts in Northern Veins

Hole ID Comment From m To m Length (1) Au g/t Ag g/t AgEq (2) g/t g/t g/t ET-83-015 Fundadora Vein 172.4 173.5 1.1 14.38 537.7 1,616.1 Including 172.4 173.0 0.60 24.40 913.0 2,743.0 ET-17-144 Caleigh Vein 88.3 91.4 3.15 10.10 1,990.9 2,748.4 Including 88.3 89.1 0.85 37.20 7,338.9 10,128.9 ET-20-158 Caleigh Vein 89.1 91.2 2.10 1.46 280.5 390.1 including 90.0 90.7 0.70 4.09 815.0 1,121.6 ET-20-163 Protectora Vein 10.0 18.4 8.40 0.42 165.5 197.1 Including 16.9 17.4 0.50 3.56 1,782.0 2,049.1 ET-20-164 Protectora Vein 17.0 28.4 11.40 0.66 87.1 136.8 Including 17.0 17.5 0.50 10.50 805.0 1,592.5 ET-20-193 Benjamin Vein 114.0 119.5 5.50 0.08 726.l 732.2 Including 116.5 119.5 3.00 0.09 1,303.2 1,310.1

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

The Northern Veins consist of both historically mined veins including the Protectora and Fundadora (Figure 3); and veins discovered by the Corporation including the Benjamin and Caleigh (see the Corporation's Press Releases dated Sept 10, 2020 and Nov 17, 2020).

Figure 3: Plan View El Tigre Project- Northern Veins

Caleigh Vein

Discovered in 2020 by the Corporation, the Caleigh Vein is the highest grade of the Northern Veins with, for example, DDH ET-17-144 returning assays at 10,129 g/t silver equivalent over 0.85 metres (Table 2). The Caleigh Vein is mapped on surface for 1.2 kilometers with only 25% of the vein drill tested.

Benjamin Vein and Black Shale

The newly discovery Benjamin Vein has been mapped on surface for 1 kilometer, with only 25% drill tested. Drill hole DDH ET-20-193 returned assays at 1,310 g/t silver equivalent over 3.0 metres (Table 2). The Benjamin Vein also hosts significant Black Shale style mineralization that is seen in the El Tigre Mine Veins.

Fundadora Vein - Northern Veins

This vein was intermittently mined during the time of the El Tigre Mine (c. 1892-1930) and therefore hosts many small workings including a 250+ metre exploration drift constructed by Anaconda Mining in 1982 (Figure 4). Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-83-015 returning assays at 2,743 g/t silver equivalent over 0.6 metres (Table 2). The Fundadora Vein has been mapped over 2 kilometers on surface with only 15% of the vein drill tested.

Figure 4: Plan View -Historic UG Sampling and Mapping Fundadora Workings

Protectora Vein - Northern Veins

The Protectora Vein extends along strike for 2 kilometers and from its position, dip. and strike it can be considered the north extension of the Sooy Vein. This vein has only been drill tested for 15% of the mapped strike length. Like the Fundadora vein, this vein was mined historically as The Palomita Mine and the North Tigre Mine. Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-20-163 returning assays at 2,049 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres (Table 2).

Figure 4: Historic Workings Exploration - Protectora Vein

Southern Veins - Lluvia De Oro, La Mancha and El Toro - Greenfields Target

Reconnaissance mapping and sampling was conducted in the Lluvia de Oro Area by the Company in 2016 and 2020. The El Toro and La Mancha Veins, while mapped, remain unsampled.

Significant historic underground workings (greater than 500 metres in length) were found in Lluvia de Oro with grab sampling completed in a 2020 program returning assays up to 1.90 g/t gold and 1,300 g/t silver (Figure 5). Importantly, the Lluvia de Oro vein system is contained within the El Tigre formation, the host to the Stockwork Zone of which the Corporation's 2024 PFS is centered. There is potential to extend open pit mineralization from the far south of the proprosed open pit south towards Lluvia de Oro.

Figure 5: Plan View El Tigre Project- Lluvia de Oro - Southern Veins

Table 3: Drillhole Locations for Significant Intercepts - Northern Veins

Hole/Channel ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length ET-83-015 670,320.0 3,387,317.9 2054.9 91 -61 187.7 ET-17-144 670,678.9 3,386,642.0 2001.5 90 -45 224.0 ET-20-158 670,678.8 3,386,646.9 1999.4 90 -45 131.2 ET-20-163 670,827.8 3,386,689.9 2020.0 90 -25 61.0 ET-20-164 670,825.9 3,386,689.9 2019.6 90 -45 114.4 ET-20-193 670,390.0 3,386,120.8 1935.6 90 -50 186.1 ETL-2078 670,471.0 3,387,332.0 2124.0 270 -14 2.7 ETL-2079 670,471.0 3,387,330.0 2123.0 230 15 0.8

Underground Preliminary Economic Assessment Update

The Company's Technical Team and lead consultants (P&E Mining), are near completion of underground PEA with expected release in Q3-2025. The underground PEA is centered on the high-grade Vein, Sulfide and Shale Zones. Final process flow diagram design and costing are in process with initial cost (CAPEX) and operational expenditures (OPEX) established, and metallurgical and geotechnical studies complete.

Open Pit Update

The Company is preparing for a construction decision of the Open Pit portion of the El Tigre Project. Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (KCA) of Reno, experts in heap leach design, have been retained for a Detailed Engineering to Process Study. WSP has completed the preliminary Engineering to Heap Leach and Ponds.

About Silver Tiger and the El Tigre Historic Mine District

Silver Tiger Metals Inc. is a Canadian company whose management has more than 27 years' experience discovering, financing, and building large hydrothermal gold and silver mines in Mexico. Silver Tiger's 100% owned 28,414 hectare Historic El Tigre Mining District is located in Sonora, Mexico. Principled environmental, social and governance practices are core priorities at Silver Tiger.

Silver Tiger commenced work on its El Tigre Project in 2017. Silver Tiger has drilled over 150,000 metres at the El Tigre Project, with 119,000 metres completed since 2020. Silver Tiger has completed a maiden MRE in 2017 and MRE updates in 2023 and 2024. The PEA for the El Tigre open pit was released in November 2023.

The 2024 PFS for the El Tigre open pit delivered robust economics. The PFS projects an After-Tax NPV of US$222 million at a 5% discount rate, an After-Tax IRR of 40.0%, and a payback period of 2.0 years. This open pit operation is expected to have a 10-year mine life. The El Tigre project delivers a life of mine undiscounted After-Tax Cash Flow of US$318 million, with initial capital costs of $86.8 million (including $9.3 million in contingency). Operating cash costs are projected at $973/oz AuEq and $12/oz AgEq, with AISC at $1,214/oz AuEq and $14/oz AgEq. The economics of the Project have been evaluated based on a discounted $26/oz silver price and gold price of $2,150/oz.

A PEA for the permitted underground mineral resource is expected to be released in Q3-2025.

VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation - Silver Tiger's El Tigre Project

VRIFY is a platform being used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps.

Access the Silver Tiger Metals Inc. Company Profile on VRIFY at: https://vrify.com

The VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation for Silver Tiger Metals Inc. can be viewed at: https://vrify.com/decks/17174 and on the Corporation's website at: www.silvertigermetals.com.

Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control and Data Verification

The diamond drill core (HQ size) is geologically logged, photographed and marked for sampling. When the sample lengths are determined, the full core is sawn with a diamond blade core saw with one half of the core being bagged and tagged for assay. The remaining half portion is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work.

The sealed and tagged sample bags are transported to the Bureau Veritas facility in Hermosillo, Mexico. Bureau Veritas crushes the samples (Code PRP70-250) and prepares 200-300 gram pulp samples with ninety percent passing Tyler 200 mesh (Code PUL85). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code FA430) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code MA200 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530).

Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and includes the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed Silver Tiger's QA/QC protocols.

Qualified Person

David R. Duncan, P. Geo., V.P. Exploration of the Corporation, is the Qualified Person for Silver Tiger as defined under National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Duncan has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

For further information, please contact:

Devin Devarennes

VP Business Development & Investor Relations

902 233 3656

devin@silvertigermetals.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT:

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements". All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, resources and reserves, the ability to convert inferred resources to indicated resources, the ability to complete future drilling programs and infill sampling, the ability to extend resource blocks, the similarity of mineralization at El Tigre to Delores, Santa Elena and Chispas, exploration results, and future plans and objectives of Silver Tiger, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "may", "is expected to", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans", "projection", "could", "vision", "goals", "objective" and "outlook" and other similar words. Although Silver Tiger believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, 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 Silver Tiger's expectations include risks and uncertainties related to exploration, development, operations, commodity prices and global financial volatility, risk and uncertainties of operating in a foreign jurisdiction as well as additional risks described from time to time in the filings made by Silver Tiger with securities regulators.

SOURCE: Silver Tiger Metals Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Vancouver, Aug. 13, 2025 - Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. ("Terra" or the "Company") (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1) is pleased to announce the closing of the second and final tranche of its non-brokered, listed issuer financing exemption private placement (the "Private Placement" or "Offering") for gross proceeds of C$302,581 through the issuance of 3,025,809 units (each a "Unit") at a purchase price of C$0.10 per Unit. Each Unit is comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company ("Common Share") and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable to purchase one Common Share ("Warrant Share") at an exercise price of C$0.20 per Warrant Share for a period of 24 months from the closing date of the Private Placement or its respective tranches (the "Closing Date"). In connection with the final tranche of the Offering, finders' fees in the amount of C$7,000 were paid and 70,000 non-transferable finder's warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant") were issued to arm's length finders. Each Finder's Warrant is exercisable for one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.20 per Common Share for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date. The Company closed an initial tranche of the Offering on July 11, 2025 in the amount of 8,149,141 Units for gross proceeds of C$814,914, as described in the Company's press release dated July 11, 2025. The Company has thus closed on the maximum offering amount of C$1,117,495.

Aleksandar Miskovi?, President and CEO of the Company commented: "We are very pleased to have raised the full allowable LIFE amount as interest for the offering kept growing by the week. The Phase III drill campaign at Viogor-Zanik in Bosnia is now fully funded and commences imminently. I am on the site to personally oversee the rig turning at Brezani while Terra's team is excited for a robust news release stream to come in the days ahead."

Kim Oishi, Director of the Company (the "Insider"), purchased 25,809 Units as part of the final tranche of the Offering. The issuance of the Units to the Insider constitutes a "related party transaction" as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). There has not been a material change in the percentage of the outstanding securities of the Company that are owned by the Insider as a result of his participation in the Offering. The Company is relying on the exemption from the valuation requirement and minority approval requirement pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the fair market value of the Insider participation does not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by the Insider in the Offering was approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with this transaction. No materially contrary view or abstention was expressed or made by any director of the Company in relation thereto.

The Private Placement was conducted pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions. The securities issued to purchasers in the Private Placement are not subject to a hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. The Finder's Warrant issued to finders in connection with the final tranche of the Offering, and the Common Shares issuable on exercise thereof, are subject to a hold period expiring on December 14, 2025 in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any of 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 unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About the Company

Terra Balcanica is a polymetallic and energy metals exploration company targeting large-scale mineral systems in the Balkans of southeastern Europe and northern Saskatchewan, Canada. The Company has a 90% interest in the Viogor-Zanik Project in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Canadian assets comprise a 100% optioned portfolio of uranium-prospective licences at the outskirts of the Athabasca basin: Charlot-Neely Lake, Fontaine Lake, Snowbird, and South Pendleton. The Company emphasizes responsible engagement with local communities and stakeholders. It is committed to proactively implementing Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) and sustainable health, safety, and environmental management.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Terra Balcanica Resources Corp.

"Aleksandar Miskovi?"

Aleksandar Miskovi?

President and CEO

For the complete information on this news release, please contact Aleksandar Miskovi? at amiskovic@terrabresources.com, +1 (514) 796-7577 or visit www.terrabresources.com/en/news.

Cautionary Statement

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). The use of any of the words "will", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, the use of proceeds for the Offering. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect including, but not limited to, volatility and sensitivity to market prices; volatility and sensitivity to capital market fluctuations; and fluctuations in metal prices. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. Actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. The Company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES./

SASKATOON, SK, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - Karnalyte Resources Inc. ("Karnalyte" or the "Company") (TSX: KRN) today announced its financial results and corporate highlights for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Q2 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

During the quarter, Karnalyte continued to advance its NI 43-101 compliant technical report, which remains a key milestone in demonstrating the value of the Company's assets and advancing toward mine development. While there have been no material changes since the last update, steady progress has continued on the review and refinement of key technical sections. The Company remains actively engaged with its team of qualified professionals to finalize the report's technical inputs, ensuring accuracy and alignment with industry standards.

The review team continues to validate and update core assumptions, including price forecasts and market entry strategies, to reflect current market conditions and strategic business objectives.

The report remains on track for completion in 2025, positioning Karnalyte for future corporate development opportunities. The Company remains committed to advancing its potash project, underpinned by strong global demand and a robust offtake agreement. Potash's role as a vital agricultural input continues to reinforce the Company's long-term value proposition.

REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

Karnalyte's review of its development strategy, initiated in 2024, remains on schedule and is expected to conclude in 2025. This strategic review focuses on assessing the economic potential of expanding magnesium chloride production at the Wynyard Project by developing magnesium resources alongside the Potash Project.

The Company is continuing its evaluation of the co-production of magnesium chloride and potassium chloride through advanced solution mining technologies. The underlying resource, carnallite (hydrated potassium magnesium chloride), is abundant within Karnalyte's mineral deposit. This ongoing analysis is aimed at unlocking additional value through the potential integration of magnesium chloride production into the existing project framework.

Magnesium is recognized as one of Canada's 34 critical minerals and is an essential mineral in the clean technologies and advanced manufacturing value chains.

ASSET SALES

In April 2025, the Company closed on the sale of three parcels of farmland that are not core to the focus on advancing the Potash Project. These three parcels sold for net proceeds totaling $1,408,000. The proceeds from the sale will be directed towards supporting the company's development activities, advancing its project plans and to fund working capital requirements.

CORPORATE & GOVERNANCE MATTERS

Election of two highly qualified directors

During the quarter, at its most recent annual meeting, Karnalyte shareholders elected Ms. Jennifer Haskey and Mr. Larry Long to the board as independent directors of the Company.

Ms. Haskey brings over 20 years of domestic and international experience in the energy sector, spanning both technical and commercial roles. She has served in advisory capacities with Deloitte LLP and BMO Capital Markets, where she focused on mergers and acquisitions, corporate strategy, value creation, and financial advisory. Her investment and business development expertise includes portfolio management roles at Passport Capital LLC and St Peter Port Capital, as well as corporate development at Repsol Oil & Gas Canada (formerly Talisman Energy Inc.). Earlier in her career, Ms. Haskey worked as a Reservoir Evaluations Engineer at McDaniel & Associates Consultants, primarily evaluating assets in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. Ms. Haskey holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan and currently serves on the Board of Kelt Exploration Ltd. (TSX:KEL).

Larry Long is retired following a distinguished career in the mining industry, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Operations, Potash, at Nutrien-the world's largest provider of crop inputs and services. With over 35 years of industry experience, Mr. Long began his career in 1988 as a field geologist with Noranda in Bathurst, New Brunswick. Mr. Long held several key leadership roles, including Chief Geologist and Production Coordinator for Breakwater Resources in Nunavut and Superintendent of Open Pit Operations at BHP Billiton's Ekati Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories. He later joined Nutrien (formerly PotashCorp), where he served as General Manager of both the Rocanville and Allan potash mines in Saskatchewan before rising to his senior executive position. In addition to his professional experience, Mr. Long currently serves on the board of the St. Paul's Hospital Foundation and on the campaign cabinet for Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Time to Rise campaign. He previously served as a board member and Chair of the Board for the Saskatchewan Mining Association.

Ms. Danielle Favreau, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are pleased to welcome Ms. Haskey and Mr. Long to the Karnalyte board and look forward to benefiting from their many years of experience in finance, engineering, geology and leadership - particularly in the investment banking and potash industries as we continue to pursue the development of the Wynyard Project."

At the Company's annual general meeting, incumbent directors Ritu Malhotra and Derek Hoffman concluded their terms on the board and did not seek re-election.

Ms. Malhotra, who joined the board in 2023 and brought significant experience in engineering and leadership as the President and CEO of March Consulting Associates. Ms. Favreau expressed appreciation, stating: "Ms. Malhotra has been a very valuable member of the Board of Directors and Karnalyte wishes to express its sincere thanks for her significant contributions."

Mr. Hoffman, who joined the board in 2021, contributed deep expertise in the legal and mining sectors, having served as a Partner and leader of the mining group at Miller Thompson LLP, as well as in-house counsel for the global mining company BHP. Ms. Favreau commented "Karnalyte sincerely thanks Mr. Hoffman for his dedicated service and the meaningful impact he has made as a member of the Board of Directors."

With the election of Ms. Haskey and Mr. Long and the concurrent retirement of incumbent directors Ms. Malhotra and Mr. Hoffman, the board continues to consist of five directors, all of whom are independent for the purpose of National Instrument 58-101 Disclosure of Corporate Governance Practices.

OUTLOOK FOR 2025

In 2025, Karnalyte Resources Inc. plans to:

complete the update to its NI 43-101 technical report;

complete the review of its development strategy; and

optimize construction and operation plans and enhance project sustainability.

The Company will continue to optimize its asset portfolio, ensuring efficient resource allocation to support project development. Additionally, the Company will intensify its business development activities, seeking strategic partnerships and investment opportunities to advance its projects and move them forward to development. Karnalyte is committed to delivering value to its stakeholders through strategic initiatives, disciplined financial management, and sustainable growth.

2025 SECOND QUARTER RESULTS

At June 30, 2025, the Company had cash of $0.9 million and positive working capital of $0.9 million. The Company has no debt. Karnalyte's Second Quarter 2025 Financial Statements and Managements' Discussion and Analysis are available at www.sedarplus.com and on Karnalyte's website at www.karnalyte.com.

The following information has been summarised from the Company's Condensed Interim Unaudited Financial Statements.



June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024

Total revenue - - Net and comprehensive loss 511 (510)

Basic and diluted per share 0.01 (0.01)

Total current assets 1,562 1,739

Total assets 6,786 7,395

Total liabilities 2,247 2,142

Total shareholders' equity 4,539 5,253



ABOUT KARNALYTE RESOURCES INC.

Karnalyte Resources Inc. is a development stage company focused on two fertilizer products, potash and nitrogen, to be produced and manufactured in Saskatchewan. Karnalyte owns the Wynyard Potash Project, with planned phase 1 production of 625,000 tonnes per year ("TPY") of high grade granular potash, and two subsequent phases of 750,000 TPY each, taking total production up to 2.125 million TPY. Karnalyte is also exploring the development of the Proteos Nitrogen Project, which is a proposed small-scale nitrogen fertilizer plant with a nameplate production capacity of approximately 700 metric tonnes per day ("MTPD") of ammonia and approximately 1,200 MTPD of urea, and a target customer market of independent fertilizer wholesalers in Central Saskatchewan.

ABOUT THE WYNYARD POTASH PROJECT

The Wynyard Potash Project is a development stage solution mining potash project located in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, with planned phase 1 production of 625,000 TPY of high grade granular potash, and two subsequent phases of 750,000 TPY each, taking total production up to 2.125 million TPY. All environmental permits remain valid, preliminary detailed engineering is complete, and the existing offtake agreement with Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited remains in effect. Further development is dependent on the continued strength of potash prices and obtaining financing.

ABOUT GUJARAT STATE FERTILIZERS & CHEMICALS LIMITED

Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited ("GSFC") is a leading Indian Fortune 500 chemicals and fertilizer company that has been in business for more than 50 years. GSFC currently operates one ammonia plant that was commissioned in the year 2000, and two urea plants that were established in 1969, at its fertilizer production complex in Vadodara, Gujarat State, India. GSFC is the Company's strategic partner and single largest shareholder.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "plan", "intend", "forecast", "future", "guidance", "may", "predict", "project", "should", "strategy", "target", "will" or similar words or phrases suggesting future outcomes or language suggesting an outlook.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Karnalyte, including, without limitation, assumptions as to: projected economics for the Company's planned potash production facility, the confirmation in an independent feasibility study of Karnalyte's assumptions regarding the technical and economic viability of the Proteos Nitrogen project, the ability of Karnalyte to obtain financing on terms favourable to the Company, and the ability of Karnalyte to receive, in a timely manner, the necessary approvals from the Company's board of directors, shareholders, regulatory authorities, and other third parties.

Karnalyte believes the expectations and assumptions upon which the forward-looking information is based are reasonable. However, no assurance can be given that these assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, readers are cautioned that the Company has not received a feasibility study prepared by a third party with respect to the Proteos Nitrogen project.

Actual results may vary from the forward-looking information presented in this press release, and such variations could be material. Risk factors and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary from the forward-looking information in this press release. Additional information on forward-looking statements and other factors that could affect Karnalyte's operations and financial results are included in documents on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the Company's profile on the SEDAR Plus website (www.sedarplus.com).

These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

SOURCE Karnalyte Resources Inc.
This News Release is Intended for Distribution in Canada Only and is Not Authorized for Distribution to United States Newswire Services or for Dissemination in the United States.

Great Quest Gold Ltd. (TSXV:GQ) ("Great Quest" or the "Company") announces that it has received an extension from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") with respect to the duration of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"). The outside date upon which final acceptance of the final tranche of the Offering (the "Final Tranche") will be granted by the Exchange has been extended until August 29, 2025. The Company closed the first tranche of the Offering on July 14, 2025 and issued 11,560,000 common shares (the "Shares") for gross proceeds of $289,000.

The Offering consists of up to 20,000,000 Shares, at a price of $0.025 per Share. All of the Shares issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four month and one day hold period from the date of issue. The Offering is subject to the approval of the Exchange.

The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for costs associated with the Company's proposed reverse takeover transaction with LotUS Gold Corp. (the "Transaction") and general working capital purposes. For further details regarding the Transaction please see the Company's press release dated May 14, 2025. The Company expects to close the Final Tranche on or about August 22, 2025.

For further details regarding the Transaction, including the equity ownership that existing Great Quest shareholders will hold in the resulting issuer following completion of the Transaction, please see the Company's press release dated May 14, 2025.

About Great Quest

Great Quest Gold Ltd. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on developing high-potential gold and lithium projects in Namibia, Morocco, and Mali. The Company's flagship asset is the Damara Gold Project in Namibia, which includes the Khorixas, Omatjete, and Outjo projects, covering over 300,000 hectares. Khorixas has yielded high-grade grab samples up to 49.9 g/t Au, while Omatjete and Outjo present significant gold and lithium opportunities. In Mali, Great Quest is advancing the Sanoukou Gold Project, a 24 km2 concession in the Kayes region. Great Quest Gold Ltd. is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol GQ.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GREAT QUEST GOLD LTD.

"Jed Richardson"

Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements include statements regarding the Transaction, the Offering and the Final Tranche and use of proceeds and the Company's future plans and objectives. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially because of factors discussed in the management discussion and analysis section of our interim and most recent annual financial statements or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813528571/en/

Contact

For more information:

Contact Tom Panoulias, VP Corporate Development by email at IR@greatquest.com
Featured

Western Nzema chiefs seek Presidential clarification on Petroleum Hub land size

GraphicOnline Business News Aug - 13 - 2025 , 15:14

The Western Nzema Traditional Council (WNTC) is seeking an audience with President John Dramani Mahama to discuss the governments proposed redesign of land allocated for the Petroleum Hub project in the Jomoro area.

The Council says it has sent two formal letters to the Presidency requesting a meeting but is yet to receive a response. The chiefs intend to use the opportunity to gain clarity on the Presidents idea of redesigning the land, as expressed during a meeting with the Western Regional House of Chiefs on 31 July 2025.

According to the WNTC, the governments plan, as outlined by the President, marks a troubling shift from the projects original vision, which was expected to generate over 780,000 jobs and drive significant socio-economic development in the region.

Addressing the WNTCs Annual General Meeting in Benyin on August 8, 2025, Nana Avo Nwia, Chief of Tikobo Number 2, speaking on behalf of Awulae Annor Adjaye III and the chiefs and elders of Jomoro, said the community received the Presidents announcement with concern.

In his address to the Western Region chiefs, the President referenced land concerns and affirmed his commitment to the project, urging swift action. However, his mention of initiating the project with only 5,000 hectares raises significant questions. We seek clarity of his objectives, he said.

Nana Avo Nwia explained, The council allocated 20,000 acres to the government, fully cognizant that the project would not commence across the entire expanse immediately. Nonetheless, limiting the initial phase to 5,000 acres risks encroachment by private developers on adjacent lands before the second phase, potentially impeding expansion. The chiefs support the allocated land but implore the government to expedite compensation payments to affected residents.

In response, Dr. Toni Aubynn, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, reiterated the governments commitment to the project and suggested that the Presidents remarks might have been influenced by public discussions on the land size.

I recognize the chiefs apprehensions and will collaborate with pertinent stakeholders to provide clarity. The Presidents directive to accelerate progress underscores his resolute dedication to this endeavour, Dr. Aubynn said.

The Annual General Meeting, the largest gathering of chiefs, elders, government officials, and industry representatives within the Jomoro enclave, also drew delegates from the office of the Member of Parliament, the Municipal Chief Executive, and the Ghana National Gas Company.
Featured

Proceeds of internet fraud funding Nigerian music industry  MI Abaga

Guardian.ngr Showbiz News Aug - 13 - 2025 , 11:00 2 minutes read

Nigerian rapper Jude Abaga, popularly known as MI Abaga, has described the alleged role of internet fraud in financing the Nigerian music industry as a serious indictment on the country.

The hip-hop star spoke in a video shared by the So Nigeria Podcast on Tuesday, where he reflected on the struggles of artistes to secure funding.

There are a lot of controversies when people talk about Yahoo Yahoo because for a lot of artists, that is the funding they have.

When people try to talk about it, for me, I do not want to be misquoted or say the wrong thing. What I am trying to say is that it is an indictment on our country that we have such talented musicians and the major funding for the industry comes from the West and from this other industry, he said. (Read Highlife music is dead in Ghana  Kwame Yeboah)

According to him, the situation shows that something is wrong in a country blessed with wealthy individuals and gifted young people.

He added, It should not be so in a country where we have so many rich people and so many talented young people. Why do we have this situation? Who is to blame? Is it the young people just trying to survive? It is very hard to say this.

The rapper noted that the reliance on money from questionable sources for investment in artistes reflects deep gaps in the nations creative economy.

So what I am trying to say is that the fact that this money goes to artists and that is one of the major ways artists get investment is telling. There is no other place it comes from. It has to be other young people who just so happen to have money, MI said.

He also recalled being misquoted about the matter nearly eight years ago, explaining that his earlier comments were misunderstood as support for the practice.

At the time, as a CEO, I had artistes I really cared about. The pressure on me was so real that sometimes I would just sit down thinking, Mehn, I just met the right guy. I wanted my artistes to do well. I did not enjoy sitting there and hearing someone talk crap about Ckay. I wanted him to succeed, he said.

MI stressed that while he does not condone crime, his experiences gave him empathy for those navigating a difficult industry without access to legitimate funding.

Not to say that sin is not sin, or bad is not bad. Evil is evil, he added.
Next article: South Korea's former first lady arrested for corruption

Featured

Care worker with false name fled to Ghana after teenage girl died on his watch

www.telegraph.co.uk International News Aug - 13 - 2025 , 13:49 2 minutes read

A care worker employed under a false name fled to Ghana after a 14-year-old girl died on his watch, an inquest in the United Kingdom has heard.

Ruth Szymankiewicz, who had an eating disorder, died after being left alone at a mental health hospital in Berkshire in February 2022.

She had been placed under strict one-to-one supervision after she self-harmed 10 days before her death at Huntercombe Hospital, in Taplow.

On February 12, 2022, the member of staff responsible for watching her  a man then known as Ebo Acheampong  failed to maintain the constant supervision plan, Buckinghamshire coroners court was told.

It later emerged that Mr Acheampong had been using false identity documents and was hired by the hospital under a false name.

The evidence showed he had been employed through an agency, Platinum, who checked his identity documents, and they even trained him by putting him through a day-and-a-half course, the coroner Ian Wade KC told inquest jurors.

It appears that these particular processes were the norm and were sufficient to enable a hospital to employ this person.

But on Feb 12, he did not keep Ruth under a constant watch. Some time around 8pm, this man ended his shift without knowing where she was and without making sure that he handed her over to another member of staff to continue the one-to-one care regime. He simply left.

He let her down

Ms Szymankiewicz was left unsupervised for a period of 15 minutes, during which she was able to asphyxiate herself, the coroner said.

Acheampong never returned to work at Huntercombe Hospital, jurors were told. It seems that he learned what happened that evening, said Mr Wade.

Police launched an investigation and found Acheampong had gone to Heathrow and boarded a plane to Ghana, never to be seen again, the coroner said. You will not hear from that man, and he let Ruth down, he told jurors.

A post-mortem examination carried out by the Home Office later determined the preliminary cause of death to be hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, a type of brain damage from a lack of oxygen.

The court further heard that Huntercombe Hospital had been inspected twice by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) prior to the incident. The CQC had not reported favourably on Huntercombe, the coroner told the inquest.

Active Care Group, which owned Huntercombe at the time of Ms Szymankiewiczs death, has since closed the facility.

The inquest continues.
KNUST distributes 3,300 laptops to brilliant needy students

Gilbert Mawuli Agbey Education Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

Since 2021, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has presented more than 3,300 laptops to brilliant needy students to enhance teaching and learning in the institution.

The gesture was part of the universitys Support One Needy Student with One Laptop (SONSOL) project, launched in 2020 to provide laptops for underprivileged students.

The monetary value of the laptops so far presented to the beneficiary students stands at GH35m.

The Vice-Chancellor, KNUST, Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, disclosed this during the 2025 ceremony to present the 2025 edition of free laptops to beneficiary students at the Great Hall.

Eligibility

Only Level 100 to 300 students are eligible to apply for support.

For new students, a maximum of West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) aggregate of 18 is required for one to qualify for the project, and for continuing students, one needs to attain a minimum Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of 55.00 and above.

The selection criteria are watertight to ensure that the laptops are received only by students who are in critical need of them.

The laptops were donated by various corporate organisations and individuals, including SIC Insurance PLC, Telecel Ghana, Stanbic Bank, Omnibsic, and other private benefactors.

Artificial Intelligence

She said in a world where artificial intelligence (AI) permeated every aspect of life, the future would belong to graduates who could confidently navigate the digital space.

She noted that disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum science required students to be equipped with the necessary tools to actively engage in teaching, learning and research.

She said, Indeed, the world today, and even more so tomorrow, has little room for digital illiteracy, stressing that poverty should never be a barrier to education and that all must continue to work towards alleviating it.

As an institution committed to an all-inclusive education, we keep our focus towards achieving it for the benefit of the nation, she said and further commended the partners and collaborators for always supporting the university with the needed laptops to be presented to the students.

Equal access

Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director, SIC Insurance PLC, James Agyenim-Boateng, said the commitment of KNUST towards promoting equal access to education was not only commendable but deeply aligned with the values of the company.

If we often say education is the key, then a laptop in the hands of university students who are in need of it is a powerful enabler that unlocks doors to knowledge, innovation and future success, he said.

He stated that supporting education had always been a pillar of SICs corporate social responsibility, adding that for decades the institution had invested in youth development, scholarships, donations, and the provision of job opportunities.

Shining example

For her part, the Director of Legal and External Affairs, Telecel Ghana, Augusta Andrews, said the SONSOL project was a shining example of what was possible when institutions prioritised inclusive innovation and the real needs of students.

She said the Telecel Ghana Foundation remained committed to equipping young people with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital future, noting in this digital age, no student should be left behind because of financial barriers.

Writers email: gilbert.agbey@graphic.com.gh.
Next article: Why parents in urban areas in Ghana prefer sending their children to private basic schools

Mount Zion Basic School marks 70th anniversary

Emmanuel Bonney Education Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

The Mount Zion Basic School in Accra has marked its 70th anniversary celebration and a graduation ceremony with a pledge to provide quality education to Ghanaian children.

This is by developing pupils, staff academically, physically and spiritually.

This is our road map towards which all teaching and learning activities are geared, the Head of the school, Ophelia Delali Dogbe Zungbey, said at the climax of the 70th anniversary celebration and graduation ceremony last Saturday.

The school was the first private institution in Nima in 1955 by Rev. Emile Doe Dogbe-Gakpetor.

From a humble beginning of 12 students, and now has a student population of 875 and 40 staff.

At the event held on the theme: 70 Years of Excellent Education, there were captivating poetry recitals, cultural performances and choreography display by the pupils and students.

Decades

Mrs Zungbey said seven decades ago, We witnessed the birth of this great institution. An institution which has brought honour to the whole of the Nima township and the nation at large, she said.

The road to success, she said, was not all that smooth and rosy, but indicated that in retrospect, the Almighty had indeed been faithful.

He has been the solid foundation on which our focus as a school thrives, she said.

Mrs Zungbey said the results of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) of the school had been encouraging as most, if not all of, the students gained admission to schools of their choice.

It will interest you to know that over the past 10 years, we have graduated 478 students who have completed their university education, some still at the tertiary institution, while others are working, she said.

A Lecturer at the Department of Religion Studies at the University of Ghana, Legon, Dr Fatimatu Sulemanu, who is also an old student of the school, said the institution had been one of shaping lives, nurturing dreams, and building a legacy grounded in compassion, resilience and excellence.

Today, we do not merely celebrate the passage of time. We honour a journey that began with vision and heart and has become a cornerstone of educational excellence in this community and Ghana as a whole.

My Zion School, which is a symbol and testament to the fact that one person's decision to solve a problem can change so many lives over decades, she said.

Looking back over the years, Dr Sulemanu, who was the guest speaker, said: We can say with pride this school has not only kept pace with time, but it has also often led the way.

As we look forward, we carry with us a rich legacy, a strong foundation and a clear purpose to continue delivering education that is excellent, holistic and transformative.

The Headmaster, Nicholas Kwasi Awadzi, said the institution strove to provide a platform that groomed individuals with sound academic and moral discipline.
US Delegation, Education Minister discuss clean water access in schools and academic exchanges

GraphicOnline Education Aug - 13 - 2025 , 11:24 2 minutes read

A high-level United States delegation from The Outreach Program and Liberty University has met Ghanas Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, to explore the introduction of a water-point system in schools nationwide and the expansion of academic exchange opportunities.

The delegation comprised Floyd Hammer, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of The Outreach Program; Kathy Hammer, Co-Founder; and James Molesey, Liberty Universitys Director of International Partnerships. They were joined by Mr. Augustine Kanton, General Manager of Ghanaian private partner EKLIPS Investments Ghana Limited.

The proposal draws inspiration from the successful implementation of water-point systems in 40 Tanzanian communities, where access to clean water significantly reduced school absenteeism caused by ill-health. The team proposed piloting the system in rural and urban basic, secondary, and tertiary school communities across Ghana.

Iddrisu welcomed the initiative, calling for a pilot rollout in selected Ghana Education Service schools. He stressed that clean drinking water is crucial to improving access to education and raising standards, noting that the plan aligns with the Governments Reset Agenda and its commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals  particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). A water-point system could significantly lower disease risk, keeping students healthy, improving attendance, and boosting learning outcomes, he said.

The Minister also expressed enthusiasm for establishing student exchange programmes between Ghanaian universities and Liberty University, the worlds largest Christian university, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural engagement and academic collaboration in nurturing future leaders.

Molesey invited Ghanaian students to apply for shared scholarships to study at Liberty University. He explained that the LU Send programme  the universitys central hub for study abroad, internships, and group travel  enables global academic experiences, combining academic credit with cultural immersion.

Liberty University also offers international scholarship pathways, including Fulbright programmes, and its International Student Center provides cultural integration support through ambassador schemes, global awareness events, and tailored assistance for international students.

Iddrisu pledged his Ministrys support for integrating water-point systems into school infrastructure as part of broader efforts to enhance school health and retention. He also committed to pursuing formal agreements with Liberty University to facilitate exchange programmes and scholarship opportunities for Ghanaian tertiary students.
Featured

Why parents in urban areas in Ghana prefer sending their children to private basic schools

Mohammed Ali Education Aug - 12 - 2025 , 21:07 3 minutes read

Private schools at the basic level in most urban areas in Ghana have seen more enrolment in recent years than public schools, according to Africa Education Watch, due to a perceived diminishing quality of tuition in public schools.

The situation has been driving many parents, especially in the urban areas, to send their children to private schools instead of public schools.

In Ghana, private basic schools generally outperform public basic schools in terms of academic achievement, despite public schools often employing more professionally trained teachers than private schools.

This disparity, Graphic Online understands can be attributed to factors like better resourcing, smaller class sizes, and stricter supervision in private schools, as well as higher levels of parental involvement and investment.

Public schools, while facing challenges like inadequate resources and infrastructure, also experience issues with teacher supervision and absenteeism.

For EduWatch, the issue of private schools attracting more enrolment than public basic schools was due to low funding in Ghanas public basic education system.

In a radio interview with Accra based Citi FM monitored by Graphic Online on Tuesday [August 12, 2025], the Executive Director of EduWatch, Kofi Asare warned that without reforms to increase funding and distribute resources more fairly, public schools at the basic level risk becoming a last resort for children whose families cannot pay private fees.

This, according to him, would deepen inequality and weaken the education systems contribution to national development at the basic level.

He said for example, public schools are growing by only 2 to 3 percent annually, while private schools at the basic level have expanded by over 40 percent in the past decade.

He noted that private institutions now account for about a quarter of basic school enrolments nationwide.

Mr Asare said the trend is more pronounced in some urban areas. In the Adenta Municipality in the Greater Accra Region for instance, only 8 percent of schools are public, compared with 92 percent private.

He observed that many private schools charge about GH10,000 a year, citing his own experience paying such fees.

For basic education, the capitation grant remains GH15 per child per year, which he described as far below what is required for public schools to compete with private providers.

On school feeding, Mr Asare described the recent increase in the allocation from GH1.50 to GH2 per meal as a miracle in the face of high food prices. He said the current procurement-driven approach is not sustainable and lacks community participation.

He proposed a redesign of the programme to make better use of limited funds.

At the senior high school level, the situation is different as there are more public senior high schools than private, and the public schools enrol more students than the private schools.

On the academic achievement side, generally, the public senior high schools outperform private schools.
Next article: Sam George: 'We are going to do a proper clean up of the media space'; I'll suspend licenses of media houses that show things inimical to public safety

Featured

'Dont just be inspired, act'  Comfort Ocran challenges participants at International Youth Day Celebration

Graphic Online Aug - 13 - 2025 , 01:13 3 minutes read

This years International Youth Day has been celebrated in Accra with Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, Mrs Comfort Ocran, reminding young people that the day is more than a date on the calendar, but a call to action.

Mrs Ocran reflected on the 2025 UN theme, Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond, noting that it is a powerful reminder that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but the changemakers of today.

The future is here, and the future starts now, she declared, urging participants to take the global goals and make them real within their own communities.

The celebration, held at the Osu Ebenezer Presbyterian Church on Tuesday [August 12, 2025], also marked the launch of the Teenpreneurship Bootcamp under the bold theme Next Is Now.

Organised at no cost to its 300 participants, the programme is designed to equip teenagers with the skills, mindset, and confidence to act immediately. By embracing entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical problem-solving today, these young people are not only investing in their own futures but also contributing directly to sustainable development and community transformation.

Another highlight of the day was the unveiling of the second edition of impact stories under the Ghana Grows programme, aptly dubbed Rays of Hope.

These stories celebrate the resilience and achievements of young women and men transforming agriculture, breaking barriers, and creating local solutions with national and global relevance.

Through the Ghana Grows programme, over 448,000 young people have been impacted.

Notably, 76% of participants are young women, and 1.91% are persons with disabilities. 20,000 young people have secured jobs and sustainable livelihoods, while more than 2,400 Youth Ambassadors have been trained to champion agriculture and entrepreneurship nationwide.

In addition, the extended Empower 360 component of Ghana Grows has equipped over 1,116 young women with practical skills and provided 156 young participants with startup kits to launch their own businesses.

The Ghana Grows programme is being implemented by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with a consortium led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation.

It aims at highlighting the opportunities available in the extended value chain for agriculture, agribusiness and ATVET.

Speaking at the programme, Mr. Joseph Boateng, Lead, Market to Impact at the Mastercard Foundation, stated: The SDGs are not distant targets set in boardrooms. They are lived realities in our villages, towns, and cities. As we mark International Youth Day, let us commit to moving from voice to impact, turning ideas into enterprises, passion into policy, and energy into enduring change.

Technical Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, Mr. Albert Ocran, also spoke to the Next Is Now theme, encouraging participants to take deliberate action. Inspiration without execution is only a dream. What you do today, the projects you start, the risks you take, the ideas you pursue, will define the world you live in tomorrow, he said.

The event closed with renewed energy, as young people committed to living out the charge of the Executive Director, to turn skills into solutions, relationships into collaborations, and opportunities into lasting change. With passion, purpose, and persistence, they left the celebration ready to ensure that their next step would not just be inspired, but action-driven.
Next article: Chief, IT technician in court over alleged stolen car

1 Radiographer to 400,000 people - Radiology Society calls for efforts to train more

Shirley Asiedu-Addo Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

Ghana has approximately one radiologist per 400,000 people, instead of the basic international standard of nine radiologists to 100,000 people.

Also, about 90 per cent of the countrys district hospitals lack specialist radiological services, leaving a growing burden of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and trauma undiagnosed.

The President of the Ghana Society for Radiographers (GSR), Dennis Amartey Ahia, expressed the concerns at the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) international conference and the Ghana Society of Radiographers triennial congress in Cape Coast.

It was on the theme: "Expanding the scope: Role extension in radiography".

Radiography uses a type of high-energy radiation called X-rays to take pictures of areas inside the body.

Shortage, solution

Mr Ahia stated that Africa's health systems were burdened by a shortage of radiologists, increasing patient loads and the growing demand for diagnostic imaging.

He said Nigeria, with over 200 million people, had fewer than 300 practising radiologists while many sub-Saharan African countries had less than one radiologist per one million people.

He said this crisis had led to long waiting times for patients who needed critical diagnostic reports.

The Ghana Society of Radiographers President said the solution would require a bold re-shaping of the radiographers' role to include image interpretation and reporting to help patients in underserved regions receive timely diagnoses without prolonged waits for radiologists.

Mr Ahia said around the globe, radiographers were stepping into advanced clinical, diagnostic and interventional roles, adding that in many high-income countries, radiographers now performed image interpretation, advanced ultrasound diagnostics and even minor interventional procedures and tasks once reserved for radiologists.

He said role extension further opened new career pathways for radiographers, encouraging specialisation in areas such as MRI, CT and advanced ultrasonography, mammography, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine, among others.

Ghana Radiology College

The Registrar of the Allied Health Profession Council, Dr Shirazu Issahaku, called for the establishment of a college of radiology to help more efficient radiographers.

He also called for the harmonisation of training curricula to ensure standardised training, service delivery and efficiency.

Dr Isaahaku underscored the importance of radiographers in medical practice and outcomes, urging the GSR to promote the highest standards of practice among practitioners.

Evolving field

The Africa Regional Director of the ISRRT, Elizabeth Balogun, in her address, said the field of radiography was one of constant evolution and innovation, adding that such conferences must help share knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire members to reach new heights.

"The work we do is not just about advancing technology; it's about improving patient care and outcomes and ultimately making a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals," she added.

A professor at the Department of Imaging Technology and Sonography at the University of Cape Coast, Professor Eric Kwesi Ofori, who chaired the function, called for sustained interest in the field to address the critical staff shortfalls.

He also called for good conditions of services to retain them in the country, saying many of the students had been enticed abroad due to better working conditions.
Next article: 1 Radiographer to 400,000 people - Radiology Society calls for efforts to train more

192 Doctors inducted into Medical and Dental Council

Diana Mensah Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

One hundred and ninety two newly qualified doctors and dentists have been inducted into the Medical and Dental Council, Ghana.

This followed their successful mandatory academic and professional training at the various medical schools in the country, namely the University of Ghana Medical School, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (Schools of Dentistry and Medical Sciences), University of Cape Coast School of Medical Sciences, the University of Ghana Dental School and the Family Health University, a private medical school.

The inductees included foreign-trained doctors and dentists who had passed the councils registration examination, as well as a batch of Ghanaian medical and dental students who were displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war.

The new cohort joins a workforce of over 13,000 doctors and dentists serving across the nation.

Standards

In his address, read on his behalf by the Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, Desmond Boateng, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, charged the inductees to uphold the highest form of professional standard since any lapse not only affected a patient but could erode public trust in the healthcare system.

A violation of this sacred trust is unacceptable and will call for stricter regulation in line with Part Two of the Health Professions Regulatory Bodies Act, 2013 (Act 857), he added.

He warned against misconduct and complacency, emphasising that medical practice was not only about curing disease but also about compassionate care.

The minister expressed concern over reports of professional misconduct in recent times, noting that such acts  though committed by a minority  undermined public trust.

We cannot allow the reckless actions of a few to tarnish the reputation of the many honourable practitioners who uphold their duties with integrity, he stressed.

Mr Mintah Akandoh reiterated the ministrys commitment to work closely with the Medical and Dental Council to strengthen regulatory frameworks, update laws, and enforce accountability and ethical practices across the sector.

He announced the completion of phase one of the National Specialist Skills Training Centre at Pantang, which was funded by the World Bank.

Duties

The Chairman of the 11th Board of Council of the MDC, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, who administered the Hippocratic Oath to the inductees, said that while the profession was noble and respected, it was also deeply demanding and emotionally testing.

He urged the inductees to maintain their composure and professionalism even in moments of loss.

Drawing from the responsibilities outlined by the Medical and Dental Council, Prof. Akosa emphasised the need for respect for human life, confidentiality, honesty, and open communication.

To justify the trust patients place in you, you must make their care your primary concern. The art of listening is part of your professionalism. Do not assume; listen to your patients and respond to their concerns, he said.

He also reminded them that knowing their limits and making timely referrals were a mark of strength, not weakness.

Honesty

On ethics, Prof. Akosa called for honesty in admitting errors, and integrity in all professional dealings, saying, If you make an error, admit it, apologise, and commit to doing better.

Addressing discrimination in health care, Prof. Akosa warned the inductees against looking down on patients or colleagues based on education, social background, or economic status.

Wisdom and common sense are not confined to the classroom.

Show respect to everybody  never abuse the trust placed in you, he advised.

The Registrar of the MDC, Dr Divine N. Banyubala, reminded the inductees that they were now custodians of public trust and bore full professional responsibility for the lives in their care.

He cautioned against negligence, unethical conduct and breaches of confidentiality, describing such behaviour as a betrayal of the professions trust.
Next article: Lets prioritise well-being of our people - Vice-President to African leaders

Create learning environment to build students confidence - Teachers urged

Justice Agbenorsi Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

The Principal of Ghana International School (GIS), Dr Mary Ashun, has called on educators to create a classroom environment that builds the confidence of learners.

Speaking at the second International Educators Summit in Accra last Friday, she said fostering welcoming classroom environments where mistakes were seen as learning opportunities rather than sources of ridicule was the surest way to build the confidence of students to succeed.

Teachers, he said, could effectively begin this by first understanding child development beyond academic milestones.

It starts with the educator understanding the child, and then after understanding the child, putting in measures to create an environment in your classroom where every child is welcome, no child is ridiculed in class because maybe they got something wrong.

The child put their hands up.

They answered the question, it was wrong, and you tell them, No, it was wrong. Go and study harder, and all the other children will laugh.

That does not build confidence in a child, she said.

Summit

Organised by the Ghana Chapter of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), the International Educators Summit for stakeholders in the education ecosystem was on the theme: Innovation for impact: Leading and learning together for sustainable development.

Youth empowerment and leadership, lifelong learning and skills for the future, placing students at the centre, transforming learning through leadership were among the themes discussed.

More than 400 people from different parts of the world attended the summit in person, with about 300 joining online.

Reflection

Reflecting on her own educational journey in her formative years in Ghana before moving abroad, Dr Ashun shared insights on how building confidence in children was essential for their development and future success.

She recounted her early experiences in part-time schooling, identifying gaps in her preparation, particularly in English fluency and self-confidence.

She said that many teachers in public schools did not do what she described as a very good job here to build the confidence of children.

As a result, she said many students felt intimidated by authority figures in the classroom, often afraid to ask questions that could enhance their understanding.

She, therefore, called for a collective effort to empower students through confidence-building practices in education.

The Executive Director of Ghana ASCD, Dr Charles Yeboah, stressed the importance of quality professional learning for educators in Ghana; hence, his outfit put in a lot of effort to bring high-calibre educational conferences to the country.

He added that professional development was critical in improving educational outcomes for all students, calling for a collective effort to enhance the quality of education in the country.

He also emphasised the need for a shift in Ghana's educational approach, advocating the integration of 21st-century skills into the curriculum.
Next article: Justice Yaw Oppong to step down as Director for Legal Education at Ghana School of Law

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Devolution Conference in Kenya: Jospong Group showcases waste management innovations

Timothy Ngnenbe Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:27 3 minutes read

Ghana's sanitation and waste management giant, Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), has taken its innovative waste treatment and green solutions to Kenya in a major expansion drive into Eastern Africa.

The private entity is currently showcasing its solutions across the waste management value chain at the Devolution Conference (DevCon), Kenya's largest biennial gathering that provides a platform for exploring key interventions for addressing national development challenges.

DevCon 2025, which is being attended by over 12,000 delegates, is on the theme: "For the people; for prosperity: devolution as a catalyst for equity, inclusion and social justice."

With the sub-theme: "Re-engineering county governments to accelerate development and close the socio-economic divide," the conference focuses on shaping subnational policy dialogue, showcasing innovations, and fostering strategic partnerships.

The platform has brought together government officials, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and international stakeholders.

The JGC is participating in DevCon 2025 as a platinum partner at the invitation of the Council of Governors, who regard the group's operations as aligning with the conference's objectives.

"Your innovative leadership in waste management and sanitation strongly aligns with the conference's thematic focus, especially in environmental sustainability and urban resilience," the invitation letter to the Executive Chairman of JGC, Mr Joseph Siaw Agyepong, stated.

The letter added that the JGC's participation in the conference "will present valuable opportunities to share best practices, and engage with key decision-makers on building sustainable waste solutions in Kenya's counties.

JGC Pavilion

The conference will officially open today with Kenyan President William Ruto delivering the opening address at Homa Bay County.

Ahead of the official opening, the JGC has mounted a pavilion to showcase its green and innovative solutions in sanitation and waste management.

Among the innovations are solid and liquid waste treatment, conversion of plastic waste into pellets, and turning organic waste into compost.

Also on display at the JGC pavilion are technologies for dredging or desilting of waste, managing waste data, and revenue mobilisation.

Key highlights

Mr Agyepong will deliver a speech at the opening session of the DevCon, touching on the need to deploy climate-resilient and green solutions to tackle sanitation and environmental challenges across Africa.

He is also expected to participate in a ceremonial tree-planting exercise to promote climate adaptation and mitigation.

The JGC Executive Chairman will also hold high-level meetings with governors from the counties to broker partnership deals and explore investment opportunities, especially in the waste treatment and management sector.

Having already signed two memoranda of understanding with two of the 47 counties on waste management, it is expected that more counties will sign agreements with JGC at the conference.

Background

The JGC has over 60 subsidiaries in Ghana across various sectors.

Zoomlion Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of JGC and a leading waste management company, is extending its tentacles to other African countries in an expansion drive.

The company has footprints in Angola, Togo, Zambia and Equatorial Guinea.

The JGC is also expanding its operations through strategic partnerships in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and South Sudan.

Last month, the Executive Chairman of the group paid a working visit to Mombasa, one of the counties in Kenya, where he held high-level discussions with the Governor of Mombasa County, Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir.

The meeting, which was held on July 2, 2025, focused on building a strong partnership between Mombasa and Zoomlion Ghana Limited to enhance sustainable waste management in the region.

Zoomlion Ghana Limited has already extended its operations to other African countries with waste management systems, creating jobs, and promoting a circular economy.
Featured

Forensic testing: Ghanas DNA profiling capability limited Lab scientist

Augustina Tawiah Aug - 12 - 2025 , 12:43 2 minutes read

Although Ghana has the capability and equipment to do standard DNA profiling, in extreme cases involving highly degraded remains, the country may lack certain advanced equipment and reagents for specialised analysis.

A Human Identification Consultant and Infectious Disease Specialist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Central Laboratory, Dr Augustine E. Sagoe, mentioned one of such advanced equipment to be the Next Generation Sequencing equipment, which, he explained, was able to produce results with speed and highest accuracy.

He said the country, however, currently lacked that type of equipment.

In cases of this nature (referring to charred remains), we need the speed and the highest accuracy possible. So we need this advanced technology to help us identify the victims at a speed. Because we dont have them, in some cases, we send the samples to international partner laboratories outside the country to do them, and they come at a huge cost, he pointed out.

Dr Sagoe was speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic on Ghanas capability to still do DNA testing.

Last Thursday, for instance, the remains of the two ministers of state, a deputy National Security coordinator, a deputy director of NADMO, a vice-chairman of the governing party and the three crew members who died in a helicopter crash the previous day had to be taken to South Africa for DNA testing and identification.

Capable laboratories

Dr Sagoe said Ghana had laboratories capable of performing forensic DNA testing mainly for paternity, criminal investigations and disaster victims identification, but added, however, that the level of capacity was varied, and that highly complex or degraded sample cases were usually sent abroad for specialised analysis.

He said aside from the huge cost involved in conducting such forensic tests outside the country, there were also huge charges involved in transporting biological samples across borders and the regulations around it.

You will not believe that the charges of transporting a biological sample may cost you more in dollars.

So, looking at all these, if we have this advanced Next Generation Sequencing equipment here, then we can do the test here and save Ghana time and money, and also save the whole West African region, even to North Africans, Dr Sagoe said.

He mentioned other benefits of the Next Generation Sequencing equipment to include accurately and speedily sequencing disease outbreaks and determining a persons heredity.
Next article: Two arrested with 519 parcels of suspected Indian hemp in Gomoa Nyanyano

Featured

Inaccurate parliamentary reporting dangerous to democracy  Speaker

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Aug - 12 - 2025 , 16:49 3 minutes read

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has said that inaccurate or unverified parliamentary reporting risks damaging and destroying democracy, particularly within Africas consensus-driven political culture.

He said that the official parliamentary record or Hansard must reflect proceedings as nearly as possible because misrepresenting proceedings could undermine public trust in democratic institutions.

The Speaker said this at the 11th biennial conference of the Commonwealth Hansard Editors Association  Africa Region (CHEA-AR), in Accra yesterday.

The five-day conference is on the theme: Charting the future of Hansard: Embracing innovation and technology for enhanced parliamentary reporting in Africa.

Hansard professionals, along with parliamentary reporters and editors from Africa and the Commonwealth, are attending to share best practices and explore innovations in legislative reporting.

Capacity-building

Mr Bagbin traced the historical evolution of parliamentary reporting from the Magna Carta in 1215 to the first Hansard in 1844.

He said that while technological change shaped reporting, human editorial oversight remained critical.

Innovation must go hand in hand with training and professional development.

We must, as institutions, invest in the continued growth of our hands-on processes and ensure they are equipped not only to use new tools, but to lead in the development of the tools, the Speaker said.

He also raised concerns about some external bodies, including ministries and international partners, making attempts to impose systems unsuitable for the countrys parliamentary context.

Such attempts, Mr Bagbin said, had previously failed because they were designed for jurisdictions with different parliamentary traditions.

He called for parliaments to retain control over their reporting systems and technology upgrades.

Technology

The Speaker also mentioned the growing threat of digital manipulation, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) and editing tools could be used to fabricate speeches or alter video footage.

He stressed the need for secure systems to protect the integrity of parliamentary records and for African parliaments to bridge the digital divide between countries.

The Speaker further advocated the inclusion of local languages in Hansard reporting, saying that nations that developed the usage of their languages progressed faster.

He further urged governments and parliaments to invest in the growth of Hansar processes, including providing resources and recognition of reporting staff.

Mr Bagbin added that they must embrace technology to promote transparency and accountability.

Innovation

Editor of Debates in Parliament, Adam Iddrisu, also stressed the need to balance tradition with innovation in parliamentary reporting.

He listed opportunities provided by digital tools such as AI-assisted transcription, real-time translation, and advanced editing software while urging preservation of core editorial valuesaccuracy, neutrality, originality, completeness and professionalism.

Mr Iddrisu said that 17 presentations at the conference would centre on issues such as ethics, social media, and the role of the Hansard in research, collaboration and professional bonds across the region.
Featured

Lets prioritise well-being of our people - Vice-President to African leaders

Diana Mensah Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:53 4 minutes read

The Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called on African leaders to rise above partisan interests and prioritise improvement in the well-being of their people.

"Our people do not ask us to engage in politics for its own sakethey deserve politics that delivers food security, decent jobs, functional schools, accessible health care, efficient infrastructure, safety and justice," she said.

Speaking at the African Political Parties summit in Accra yesterday, she urged political parties to forge alliances and work together even as strongest opponents to build long-term policies and projects that would survive beyond their political careers and serve not just todays generation but the next.

The three-day summit, which is on the theme: From politics to prosperity, has leaders from over 30 African countries in attendance.

Objectives

The summit aims to foster dialogue, chart collaborative pathways for development, and also redefine the role of politics in advancing the well-being of African citizens.

The occasion was marked by a sombre reflection on the recent tragedy in the country where eight persons lost their lives in a helicopter crash while on duty.

It serves as the continental platform for advancing the African political parties initiative (APPI), a transformative framework designed to build policy, organisational and strategic capabilities of African political parties.

Attending are the Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the Africa Governance Centre (AGC), Jeff Radebe; the Chairperson of the Executive Council of AGC, Benedicta Lasi, and the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, among others.

It is organised by the AGC, in partnership with other organisations, to champion inclusive governance and cooperative leadership across the continent.

This summit also marks the launch of the African Political Parties Initiative, a new platform designed to help parties across Africa talk to each other more often, solve disagreements peacefully, and work together on common goals.

Democracy

Drawing from the countrys democratic journey, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said that true democracy was measured not just by peaceful elections, but by the ability of political rivals to become partners in building a national vision.

Democracy must be adversarial only in the marketplace of ideas, because power is transient while the nation endures.

"We will not agree on everything, but if we can agree on the fundamentalsthat Africas peace, unity, and well-being are non-negotiable, then we will have already taken a decisive step forward," she added.

The Vice-President cited the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as proof that African unity was possible, but said that treaties alone were not enough since it requires political will across party lines to harmonise policies, remove barriers, and open opportunities for trade and investment.

Vision

For his part, the NDC General Secretary urged leaders to uphold the vision of Dr Kwame Nkrumah to propel development, saying that despite 68 years of independence, Ghana and many African nations still lag behind the lofty ideals of their founding fathers.

He expressed concern over growing disillusionment among African youth towards democracy, and warned that without reforms, democratic processes risked losing legitimacy.

Mr Kwetey acknowledged that no single leader or party had all the answers. "Humility demands that we accept we do not. Our role is to create the enabling environment for all forms of leadership to flourish," he said.

Objective

Mr Radebe said the centre and its flagship African Political Parties Initiative aimed to institutionalise cooperation between ruling and opposition parties, share strategies across borders, and focus on competence in governance rather than just campaign success.

He challenged political leaders to abandon empty politics and commit to transformative governance that delivers tangible results for the continents people.

Parties are not mere campaign machines; they are the custodians of vision, the architects of policy, and the gatekeepers of leadership," the chairman added.
MIIF calls for unity as nation mourns fallen heroes

Emmanuel Bonney Aug - 13 - 2025 , 08:57 3 minutes read

The Board Chairman of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Richard Kwame Asante, has described the helicopter crash which claimed the lives of eight gallant statesmen, including two key cabinet ministers, as a collective loss that must unite the nation.

Consequently, he called on all to rally behind the government and families of the bereaved in what he described as a difficult moment of intense grief.

Mr Asante said this when he led a high-powered delegation from MIIF, which included the Chief Executive Officer, Justina Nelson, and other executives to lay a wreath at the Jubilee House in honour of the fallen public servants.

He said working in unison towards national renewal was key to realising the Reset Agenda of the government to make Ghana great again.

Mr Asante conveyed the heartfelt sympathies of MIIF's board, management, and staff to President John Dramani Mahama, Vice-President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the entire government, the National Democratic Congress, the Ghana Armed Forces and the bereaved families, adding "may their souls rest in perfect peace."

In an earlier statement, MIIF said: "The profound tragedy that these exemplary leaders who devoted their entire careers to protecting and advancing Ghana's interests should perish while still answering the call of national duty, deepens our collective anguish.

Other tributes

There were other tributes by the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (KEITI), the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and the government of Indonesia.

The NUGS President, Daniel Korley Botchway, said we mourn not only the demise of respected statesmen, but also leaders who once stood at the forefront of student activism and national development.

He mentioned Dr Omane Boamah and Dr Murtala Mohammed, saying that commenced their journey from the leadership of NUGS to the highest levels of public service.

The leadership of UTAG in a statement, also described the death of the eight persons as a blow not only to the government but the people of Ghana.

It urged the government to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into circumstances surrounding the crash, while taking the necessary steps to enhance the safety of air travels going forward to avoid future tragedies.

For their part, the National Pensions Regulatory Authority commended the bravery and professionalism of emergency responders, security personnel and medical teams who were first on the scene of the accident, describing their efforts as a beacon of hope amidst our sorrow.

In a statement, they prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in peace, and may the Almighty grant their families comfort and strength during this difficult time and the days ahead.

Indonesia

The government of Indonesia has also extended its profound condolences to the government of Ghana, the bereaved families, and the entire citizenry over the incident.

A statement signed and issued by the Indonesian Consulate in Accra by the Honorary Consul, Paskal A. B. Rois, said the tragic death of the eight was a great loss not only to Ghana but Africa and the world at large.

They described the deceased as devoted personalities who served with distinction and honour in their line of duty, exhibiting a true spirit of patriotism.

In a related development, the Chief Representative of Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (KEITI) in Ghana, Dr Hong Seok Kim, expressed shock at the disaster.

The KEITI mourns with the people of Ghana, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, and the families of the departed. May their souls rest in peace.
Queenmothers call for inclusion in decision-making

Juliet Akyaa Safo Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read

The All Regions Queenmothers Association has called for more representation and inclusion of queenmothers in decision-making at the Regional and National Houses of Chiefs.

The President of the association, Nana Otubea II, explained that despite the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, queenmothers remained underrepresented, particularly on the judicial committee of the regional and national House of Chiefs.

She said it was also unfair to exclude queenmothers in the election of regional and national presidents.

When there is a case between a queenmother and a chief and it goes to the regional level, the composition of the judicial committee is made up of only males with no female representation, she said.

The President made this known during a seminar on the enforcement of the Affirmative Action Bill in Accra.

It was on the theme: Inclusiveness of queenmothers at the decision-making level in the regional and national Houses of Chiefs.

Delay in allowance

Nana Otubea II, who is also the Paramount Queenmother of Nkonya Traditional Council, Oti Region, stressed that the association would advocate to be part of decision-making at the regional and national Houses of Chiefs.

Oti region, for instance, a chief is being challenged for his legitimacy but has been gazetted and even allowed to sit on a judicial panel, which is also challenging another chief in a case.

How is that so? There are queenmothers who are qualified to sit on that panel. So we are asking for equity, not equality, equity in discharging responsibility at all levels, she said.

She also lamented the delay in the payment of their allowances for almost three quarters, calling on the authority to address it.

Systemic barriers

The Former Chief Justice of Ghana and a Council of State Member, Justice Sophia Akuffo, said constitutional changes were necessary to ensure gender equity, including setting minimum numbers of queenmothers in regional houses of chiefs.

She said the country must actively fight against biases, even in the judiciary.

The Former Chief Justice called for empowerment and support for individuals and groups to reach their full potential, backed by the Constitution.

She said community engagement, seminars and media coverage were needed to tackle systemic barriers.

Equity

In a speech read on her behalf, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said the ministry had compiled a list of nominees for the Gender Equity Committee and forwarded it to the Office of the President for consideration and approval.

She said the ministry would continue to engage with stakeholders to design and implement activities that promoted gender equality, equity and women's empowerment.

The Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Rita Odoley Sowah, called for a re-examination of institutional frameworks and cultural norms that shaped leadership in traditional settings, while advocating deliberate opportunities for queenmothers to contribute as equal leaders in key decisions.

In response to their delayed allowances, she gave assurances to advocate their allowances to be paid.

A Senior Lawyer and Convener of the Affirmative Action Law Coalition, Sheila Minkah-Premo, called on queenmothers to mobilise alliances across regions and engage with parliament and the Ministry of Chieftaincy to table amendments that reflected inclusive leadership.

She also urged them to collaborate with civil society organisations and gender advocacy coalitions to keep the issue in the public domain.
Featured

Shelter Afrique ordered to pay Blue Rose for breaches

Justice Agbenorsi Aug - 12 - 2025 , 12:31 3 minutes read

The High Court in Accra has ordered a habitat and housing company, Shelter Afrique, to pay GH600,000 in costs and damages to Blue Rose Ltd, a real estate company, contracted from the Pan-African finance institution for the construction of housing units for sale.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Samuel Djanie Kotey, the court was of the opinion that the failure of Shelter Afrique to disburse the over $5 million to the plaintiff, Blue Rose Ltd, after it had contributed its equity contribution, a precondition for the defendant to disburse the first tranche of the loan agreement, constituted a breach of contract.

The court held that the real estate company was justified when it repudiated the contract after injecting $3.03 million into the project, inclusive of legal fees, all in a bid to secure the loan facility from Shelter Afrique, only for the defendant to breach the contract by not releasing the loan facility.

From the evidence adduced before this court, there is sufficient evidence that encourages a finding that Shelter Afrique had no lawful justification for refusing and/or failing to disburse the loan facility to Blue Rose Ltd; the latter having satisfied all the conditions precedent to first disbursement.

Accordingly, this court finds that it constituted a breach of the loan agreement by the Shelter Afrique when it refused to disburse the loan despite the plaintiff's compliance with the terms of that agreement, the judge stated.

The court has, therefore, awarded to the plaintiff general damages of GH500,000 against Shelter Afrique for breach of contract.

It has also awarded costs of GH100,000 in favour of the plaintiff.

Background

On December 15, 2016, Shelter Afrique and Blue Rose Ltd executed a loan agreement where the defendant undertook to advance to the real estate company, $5.2 million to enable it to construct 170 housing units of two, three and four-bedroom houses and associated infrastructure for outright sale to the public.

It was agreed between the parties that the $5.2 million was to represent 64 per cent of the total construction cost of the houses to be developed.

The parties further agreed that Blue Rose Ltd would contribute the remaining 36 per cent of the cost of the project, amounting to $2.92 million.

The December 15, 2016, the agreement was further amended on October 4, 2017 and signed by the parties.

The amendment reduced the loan amount, forming the defendant's equity contribution to the project from 64 per cent to 63.17 per cent and increased the plaintiff's equity contribution to the project from 36 per cent to 36.83 per cent.

Under the agreement, Shelter Afrique was to be satisfied that the real estate company had injected its equity contribution into the project onsite and ascertained by the defendant before the facility would be disbursed.

After the real estate company had injected $3.03 million into the project, Shelter Afrique failed to disburse the loan because it believed that the plaintiff had not met the full obligations under the agreement.

Suit

It, therefore, sued Shelter Afrique for failing to disburse the facility, averting that the failure to disburse the facility resulted in the plaintiff incurring some expenses.

The plaintiff also sought a declaration that the defendant's failure to disburse the facility constituted a breach of contract.

However, Shelter Afrique was of the view that it had refused to disburse the loan because the plaintiff did not abide by the terms of the agreement to satisfy the pre-disbursement conditions within the period agreed.

It averred that when the defendant could not meet its obligation under the contract, it indulged the plaintiff by proposing that it would provide a bank guarantee to make up for the shortfall in the plaintiff's equity contribution; however, the plaintiff could not meet that obligation.

Shelter Afrique further stated that the plaintiff did not have any lawful basis for unilaterally terminating the contract when it did.
Next article: Why rescue team used cocoa sacks for burnt remains of helicopter crash victims  CDS explains

Featured

Helicopter that made emergency landing in Nkawkaw belongs to the Volta River Aviation Limited not Volta River Authority - VRA statement

Graphic Online Aug - 13 - 2025 , 17:48 3 minutes read

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has said it does not own a helicopter nor operate an aviation service.

In a statement dated August 13, 2025 signed and issued by David Adomako Mensah, the Director Corporate Affairs and External Relations, the Volta River Authority said it had noted "with grave concern media publications suggesting that a helicopter which belongs to VRA has emergency landed in Nkawkaw in the Eastern Region."

"We would like to state unequivocally that the said helicopter does not belong to VRA and neither does VRA operate aviation services."

"Our checks indicate that the helicopter in question belongs to the Volta River Aviation Limited (VRAL) which is registered with the Petroleum Commission."

Last Monday, a helicopter belonging to the Volta River Aviation, with registration number 9G-AFW, made an emergency landing at Nkawkaw in the Eastern Region due to bad weather.

The chopper was said to be travelling from Accra to Kumasi, when the pilot was forced to land after encountering poor visibility.

Sources said, the Jet A-1powered helicopter made the emergency landing as a safety precaution.

All onboard, the pilot and crew, were safe, with no injuries reported.

Helicopter makes emergency landing in Nkawkaw due to bad weather https://t.co/jVN8rak2Hf pic.twitter.com/rzOzK0EsCO  DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) August 11, 2025

Helicopter makes emergency landing in Nkawkaw due to bad weather https://t.co/jVN8rak2Hf pic.twitter.com/Z2mCFzRdBz  DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) August 11, 2025

Attached below is a copy of the statement from the VRA

The Volta River Authority has noted with grave concern media publications suggesting that a helicopter which belongs to VRA has emergency landed in Nkawkaw in the Eastern Region.

We would like to state unequivocally that the said helicopter does not belong to VRA and neither does VRA operate aviation services.

Our checks indicate that the helicopter in question belongs to the Volta River Aviation Limited (VRAL) which is registered with the Petroleum Commission.

The mandate of the Volta River Authority is to provide affordable reliable electricity to power economies and add value to lives. Our mandate does not include the provision of aviation services.

The public is strongly advised to disregard any such reports.

The media is also advised to make the necessary enquiries with VRA Corporate Affairs and External Relations Department for accurate information before such publications are made.

We can be reached via email at [email protected] or you can contact Francis Kobena Abban (Manager Corporate Communications and Branding) on 0302-218551/ 0245-823734.

Thank you.

Issued By:

Surv. David Adomako Mensah

DIRECTOR CORPORATE AFFAIRS & EXTERNAL RELATIONS
Featured

Justice Oppong recalled to the bench as Prof Atuguba takes over Ghana School of Law

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Aug - 13 - 2025 , 14:59 2 minutes read

A Justice of the Court of Appeal, who also served as Director of the Ghana School of Law, Justice Nana Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, has been recalled to the judiciary to perform his duties as a judge fully.

Justice Oppong has therefore been directed by the Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to hand over his position as Director of Legal Education to Professor Raymond Atuguba, a former Dean of the University of Ghana School of Law.

A letter dated August 8 this year, and signed by Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, indicated that Justice Oppongs recall will take effect on September 1, with Prof Atuguba acting as Director of Legal Education until a substantive appointment is made.

The Judiciary now requires your full services, so you are recalled from the position of Director of Legal Education with effect from 1st September 2025.

You are to hand over to Professor Raymond A. Atuguba, former Dean of the University of Ghana School of Law, who has been appointed Ag. Director of Legal Education of the General Legal Council while a search party is put in place for a permanent Director of Legal Education, the letter from the Acting Chief Justice stated.

Appreciation

Meanwhile, Justice Oppong has expressed appreciation to students and staff of the Ghana School of Law for the cooperation he enjoyed during his three-year tenure as Director of the only institution that provides the professional law course in the country.

In a notice issued yesterday, Justice Oppong announced that his last working day as Director of Legal Education will be August 31, 2025.

I had hoped to finish my full term or at least see through the current academic year and the forthcoming call to the bar ceremony for the final-year students. But sadly, that was not meant to be, he stated.
Recently, we asked active and reserve US military members and veterans to share what they honestly think about Donald Trump and his administration, and they didn't hold back. Amid jeopardizing America's relationships with long-standing allies, Veteran Affairs layoffs, and  among many other things  deploying troops to intimidate the American people, here's how veterans are reacting:

1."Trump lacks any integrity and is the first president in my lifetime to blatantly use the military as political pawns. I served for 21 years, and I never thought I'd see the day that a president would politicize soldiers while speaking to them as he did at Fort Bragg. It's reprehensible and sad that our military has come to this. For those service members who are okay with this, you need to realize that Trump is breaking down your trust with the American public by egging soldiers on to cheer at a clear political message. This won't bode well for the stature of the services. Senior officers better get off their asses and do something before it's too late!"

Melissa Sue Gerrits / Getty Images

smartcentipede134

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2."As a Vietnam veteran, I am appalled at what our country is becoming under Trump and the Republicans who are condoning all of his actions."

deadpankid7571

3."Trump is keeping promises he made during his campaign. I don't like everything about him, but he is 200% better than Biden or Kamala! I served as a combat medic in the US Army 9th Infantry Division, and he has my support 100%."

Todd, 59, Illinois

4."I'm a retired Navy veteran who's served 21 years for my country. I've been retired since 1993 and have voted for both Republican and Democratic presidents. I honestly have to say that Trump is the worst president elected in my lifetime. He was disrespectful to the late Senator John McCain by making comments about him being captured and spending time as a prisoner of war. But at least McCain served his country. Trump makes everything about himself; he's an adulterer and a convicted felon. What other president found it necessary to use the military to celebrate his birthday, spending millions of taxpayer dollars to do so? Trump could be the only candidate on the ballot, but he will never garner my vote."

grumpytrash952

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5."I retired after 30 years of service. Trump is the exact type of fascist dictator I spent my entire career fighting. Like all other fascist dictators, he only cares for himself. This will end violently."

Doc B., 60, Virginia

6."I am a Vietnam veteran and was in the US Navy from 1964 to 1968. Trump is doing just as I'd hoped. The outlaw Dems are hindering him, but he is a fighter. Trump is not going to touch Social Security, Veterans Affairs, or healthcare. My wife and I are trying to survive solely on my Social Security. DJT, keep on keeping on. God bless and good luck."

Jerry, 81, Texas

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7."Retired Air Force here. If I were active duty, I'd retire or resign immediately, because I wouldn't be able to support Trump's actions and his attempts to create false conditions to declare martial law so he can rule us. He's a coward and a bully. If Congress won't stop him, then the courts must. Otherwise, we must get ready for a potential civil war."

sportycloud34

8."I am a veteran of two branches of military service with honorable discharges from both. I served during the Gulf War and the War on Terror after 9/11, and I grew up in a household with a US Marine Corps aviator. My dad retired after over 20 years of service, and as much as I miss him, I'm glad he passed before he could witness the embarrassment of the person who currently holds the office of President of the United States. Dad always preached that you don't have to respect the man, but you must respect the office."

Inti St Clair / Getty Images/Tetra images RF

"But Trump has insulted the military and our veterans, and he continues to trample our Constitution. I was taught that my oath of office was to uphold the Constitution, and I seem to remember something about refusing orders that were morally questionable or violated our oath. I'm not embarrassed by my service, but I'm embarrassed by our president."

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beaunamy15

9."I am a veteran who has voted for Trump in all three elections. I believe that voting for him this last time was one of the biggest mistakes of my life. Seeing how cowardly he acts toward our enemies makes me sick. He is turning our best allies against us while trying to befriend the dictators we swore to prevent from prospering. Trump is single-handedly trying to crash the American economy and make life harder for everyone except for the 1%. He expects the American people to bend the knee as if he were a king. I fear for the direction our country is headed."

Anonymous

10."I am a USAF Cold War and Vietnam-era veteran and registered Republican. I was appalled by the ensuing damage Trump did to our country internally and internationally during his first term, which he ended with an attempted insurrection. The next four years were spent correcting much of the damage, only to have it totally destroyed in less than six months by Trump and his inept administration. Although I'm not totally convinced it will happen, my hope is that our Congress and courts of law will have the fortitude to shut Trump and his administration down."

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boringsquirrel324

11."In 1971, my draft number was 85, and I joined the Navy at the end of the Vietnam War. I retired in 1994 during the first Gulf War, and I was a registered Republican until Trump came on the scene. He lacks the knowledge, ability, and heart to be commander in chief. He dodged the draft five times, called military members 'suckers and losers,' is a 34-time convicted felon, was divorced [two] times, and the list goes on and on. He has NO place in politics, and he is the WORST president ever. This isn't over, but we don't know how it will end. Let's pray the Constitution survives."

vibrantmoon825

12."I have served 22 years for my country. This clown that was elected to represent us all is, by far, the most corrupt president to date. He thinks he can do anything and disrespect anyone; he has done nothing to unite this country for the better. Additionally, the Supreme Court is a joke and just as corrupt as Trump. I served to protect and defend and follow lawful orders, not a dictator."

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superlatte284

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13."I'm a 21-year retired SFC war veteran. Trump is doing a fine job so far. All of these idiots using the hyperbole that Trump is the 'worst president ever' need to get a clue. He's not perfect, but he is 1,000 times better than the clown we had before him. Many of you KNEW Biden was compromised in more ways than one and said nothing. NOTHING. So, sit back and enjoy the next four years of Trump, because you were too cowardly to speak up against Biden."

smartcomet37

14."I am a six-year Navy veteran and a three-year Army veteran who was honorably discharged under medical conditions at 100% disability, and I thank God that President Trump is in office. It is about damn time we have someone in office who knows business and isn't afraid to stand up for AMERICA FIRST! We have been on the shitty end of the stick long enough, paying the rest of the world's bills for squabbles between countries, and I'm glad that Trump put a stop to it and the wasteful spending of the Democratic Party."

"President Trump is doing everything he campaigned on, and he's keeping his promise to the American people who elected him to do so. When his four-year term is over, America will be a better place for it. If we're lucky, a majority of the Democratic so-called leaders will have committed themselves to mental institutions, and The View will have been taken off the air. America will be better for all of it."

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Anonymous, 61, Delaware

15."As a 20-year retired Army veteran, I've served under numerous leaders and have supported generals, secretaries of defense, and chiefs of staff. Leadership matters, and this administration has made it clear that reckless governance weakens institutions. I once encouraged young people to consider military service. Now, I can no longer offer that advice in good conscience. This turbulent era will pass, but not soon enough."

David, 68, North Carolina

16."As an Air Force veteran, I am insulted by those who don't understand how Trump is disobeying the Constitution. Any ex and current military member who doesn't feel the same should be ashamed of themselves. Biden wasn't a great president, but he was a good one who dug us out of a deep hole that the previous Trump administration put us in. To deny what Biden did is to deny reality; Biden wasn't corrupt like Trump. Any president who openly states they are unsure if they have to uphold the Constitution should be immediately impeached. It is also shameful that the other two branches of government don't seem to have the morals or decency to stand up to Trump. If America survives, history will surely look at this period as a far darker time than during the Civil War."

Bloomberg / Bloomberg via Getty Images

Anonymous

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17."I'm a 24-year veteran and a three-tour combat veteran. I am struggling to understand veterans who like him. This behavior is not okay in any form. People actually believe the stuff Trump and his administration say, and it makes me embarrassed and angry. I will definitely fight against the MAGA community if it comes to it. My country and its three WORKING forms of government NEED TO WORK CORRECTLY!"

Jim, 64, Kansas

18."I'm an 80-year-old combat veteran of the Marine Corps, and I find the current administration incompetent, shameful, and dangerous. Trump and his enablers would benefit from devoting more time to self-reflection, self-improvement, and self-discipline. Instead, it seems to me that with their power-hungry appetites, they favor self-aggrandizement, money-grubbing, and boot-licking."

"Using masked agents who can therefore be held unaccountable is a police state action that prevents due process. Employing active duty military as a police force is unlawful and demeaning to the individual soldier. Spreading clever misinformation is destructive. We need leaders now who are willing to stand in the breach and resist. Few elected Republicans seem to have the necessary fortitude. We are on the cusp of losing our Democratic Republic, and Trump's presidency is without merit."

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John, 80, Colorado

19."As a former active duty, combat arms platoon leader during the 1970s, I learned leadership principles from the world's finest leaders. The first lesson I learned and practiced every day was to take care of your people. We were taught that you are responsible for your people's well-being, which included giving them realistic training, adequate shelter, food, health, and pay and promotions. Trump doesn't give a damn about taking care of anybody but himself."

"The California National Guard that he deployed to put down protestors  something that the local police could have easily handled  were warehoused and sleeping on concrete floors. They were operating without official orders, not adequately trained or utilized effectively for their missions, and were doing all of it without pay. We know how Trump feels about veterans; Mr. Bone Spurs has been quite clear about it for years!"

Mike, 72

20."I'm a Cold War veteran who served for four years on active duty when the Soviet Union was a real threat. Now, the biggest threat to my country is the current administration in DC. I never did think that there would be troops deployed against our fellow Americans just because the president gets offended when someone calls him out on his lies. Every single day, there's a new lie fed to the MAGA cult. It's absolutely disgusting and disgraceful. Service members swear an oath to the Constitution, not to a person. We are obligated to disobey orders that are illegal. We need military leadership to stand up and call him out for his actions."

Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

John, 55, Connecticut

21."The convicted felon residing in the White House is a true danger to all of democracy. I served 10 years in the Army and am proud to have served. I worked closely with other NATO soldiers and know what they admired the United States for. I look around now and wonder what happened. Felon Trump and his asslicking, self-serving sycophants have created an image of our country that embarrasses and frightens me as a father and grandfather."

Anonymous

If you're an active duty or reserve US military member or a veteran, what are your thoughts on Trump's presidency so far? Let us know in the comments, or you can anonymously voice your thoughts using the form below.

Note: Some submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Featured

Justice Yaw Oppong to step down as Director for Legal Education at Ghana School of Law

Richard Osei Boateng Aug - 13 - 2025 , 09:20 2 minutes read

Justice Nana Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, the Director of Legal Education and head of the Ghana School of Law (GSL), has announced that his tenure will officially end on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

In a message to students on Tuesday, August 12, Justice Oppong expressed gratitude to God for love, guidance, and protection during his three years in office.

While he had hoped to complete his full term and preside over the upcoming Call to the Bar ceremony, he noted that sadly that was not to be.

He wished Part II students success in their October Call to the Bar and encouraged Part I students to remain focused to advance in their legal studies. He further urged the student body to extend even greater respect, cooperation, and support to his successor and the GSLs management team.

Justice Oppong assumed office on April 1, 2022, following the retirement of Mr. Kwasi Prempeh-Eck.

A former senior lecturer at the school, he is a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Ghana and a Barrister-at-Law with more than 22 years of practice, specialising in Energy and Natural Resource Law, as well as Banking and Finance Law.

He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (London) and the Managing Partner of Ampofo, Oppong, and Associates in Accra.

Installed as Mawerehene of Akyem Abuakwa, Justice Oppong is also a prolific legal author, with works including Contemporary Trends in the Law of Immovable Property in Ghana and scholarly articles such as Domesticating Dispute Resolution Arising from Petroleum Agreements in Ghana.

Holding an LLB from the University of Ghana, a Barrister-at-Law certificate from GSL, and an LLM in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Ghana, Justice Oppong has built a career blending legal practice, academia, traditional leadership, and farming  giving him a unique perspective on the intersection of customary law and modern development.
Next article: See the areas that will be affected by ECG's planned maintenance on August 13, 2025

Previous article: Justice Oppong recalled to the bench as Prof Atuguba takes over Ghana School of Law

Featured

Police disclose why they arrested popular serial caller Sir-Obama Pokuase

GraphicOnline Aug - 13 - 2025 , 14:25 1 minute read

The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with other security agencies, has arrested Daniel Adomako, popularly known on social media as 'Sir-Obama Pokuase', as part of ongoing operations targeting the illegal possession and display of sophisticated weapons.

The arrest was announced in a press release dated August 13, 2025, from the Public Affairs Directorate of the Police Headquarters in Accra.

According to the statement, Adomako is assisting investigations into images and videos he circulated on social media showing individuals brandishing illegally acquired weapons.

"These operations, which have been ongoing for several weeks, have led to the significant retrieval of a substantial number of illegal arms and ammunition," the release stated.

In a related development, three other individuals, Prince Ofori, Yayra Abiwu, and Emmanuel Kwakye, are also in police custody.

They are being investigated for alleged threats of death and the publication of false news linked to a recent helicopter crash.

The Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, stating, "We reiterate our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens by rooting out criminal elements and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms."

The public was urged to provide credible information to support these operations, with further updates promised as investigations progress.

The statement was signed by Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Assistant Commissioner of Police and Director of Public Affairs.
Next article: US Delegation engages climate change Minister on Clean Water Innovation and Sustainable Development

Previous article: See the areas that will be affected by ECG's planned maintenance on August 13, 2025

Featured

Police widen Mahama threats investigation to include illegal arms, helicopter crash fake news

Mohammed Ali Aug - 13 - 2025 , 13:32 2 minutes read

The Ghana Police Service has expanded its investigation into a viral TikTok video in which threats were allegedly made against President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama.

Police say the case is now linked to the possession of illegal arms and the circulation of false information about the recent military helicopter crash.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the police named four suspects in custody.

They are Daniel Adomako, also known as Sir Obama Pokuaase, Prince Ofori, Yayra Abiwu, and Emmanuel Kwaku Kwakye.

According to the police, the first three were initially connected to the video containing the threats.

Mr Adomako and Mr Kwakye are also under investigation for allegedly possessing and displaying sophisticated weapons.

The police said the arrests followed a weeks-long intelligence-led operation conducted with other security agencies.

The operation led to the seizure of a large quantity of illegal arms and ammunition. Investigators are reviewing images and videos posted online that allegedly show the weapons.

The statement added that the three original suspects in the threats case are now also being investigated for circulating false information and issuing further threats after the August 6 helicopter crash, which killed eight people, including two cabinet ministers.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, said the service will continue to protect the public and deal with criminal activity.

She urged the public to provide credible information to support the ongoing investigations and said all suspects will be processed in line with the law.
Next article: Samuel Aboagye, one of the passengers on crashed helicopter made phone call that indicated they had difficulty landing - Kumasi MCE (AUDIO)

US Delegation engages climate change Minister on Clean Water Innovation and Sustainable Development

Kweku Zurek Aug - 13 - 2025 , 11:12 2 minutes read

A United States delegation from The Outreach Program and Liberty University has met Ghanas Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, Issifu Seidu, to discuss partnerships in climate resilience, food security, and sustainable development.

The Outreach Program, based in Iowa, was represented by its Executive Chairman and Co-Founder, Mr. Floyd Hammer, and Co-Founder, Mrs. Kathy Hammer, while Liberty University was represented by its International Partnerships Director, Mr. James Molesey.

They were accompanied by their local partner, EKLIPS Investments Ghana Limited, represented by General Manager, Mr. Augustine Kanton.

During the courtesy call, the delegation extended two formal invitations to Minister Seidu  to attend the World Food Prize 2025 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, from 2123 October 2025, and the CEO Summit 2025 at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The Minister confirmed his intention to attend the Borlaug Dialogue, describing it as a valuable platform for advancing Ghanas sustainable agriculture and climate action goals.

The visiting team also presented an innovative water-point system designed to provide clean drinking water to communities facing shortages due to climate change impacts. Minister Seidu welcomed the technology, describing it as an excellent intervention, particularly for areas affected by illegal mining (galamsey), which has destroyed many of Ghanas water bodies.

He stressed the need for the system to be adapted to remove mercury and lead contamination  heavy metals commonly found in mining-affected water sources  noting that these toxins pose severe health risks.

This solution, if deployed and refined to address heavy metal contamination, could restore safe drinking water to thousands of Ghanaians in mining communities, he said. It is a critical step toward safeguarding public health and achieving our climate and sustainability commitments.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to strengthen collaboration on clean water delivery, climate resilience measures, and sustainable development initiatives in Ghana.
Featured

Why rescue team used cocoa sacks for burnt remains of helicopter crash victims  CDS explains

GraphicOnline Aug - 13 - 2025 , 17:10 4 minutes read

The Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, has clarified why cocoa sacks were used to carry the remains of the eight people who died in the August 6, 2025, military helicopter crash.

He said that although body bags were available at the scene, the severity of the burns made it impossible to use them. We had some body bags at the scene, but the remains were so heated that it was not conducive for the bags to be used, he explained.

According to him, the rescue team, operating deep in the forest and racing against nightfall, relied on what he called the available and appropriate material to remove the remains from the crash site.

It was in the thick forest, and it was getting late. We had the option of leaving the remains there until the following day, but we knew what would have happened to the bodies. So the team that was up there, assessing the situation, decided to use the available materials they could lay hands on to start to descend the higher ground, he said.

Lieutenant General Agyapong made the comments on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, when executives of the Ghana Journalists Association visited him. He revealed that personnel are still combing the crash area to ensure all remains and parts of the aircraft are found.

Why rescue team used cocoa sacks for burnt remains of helicopter crash victims  CDS explains https://t.co/EYyIHKZKsC pic.twitter.com/SZiFU2VxcN  DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) August 13, 2025

It was getting very late. The place had been sealed offI would not use the word cordoned off because we didnt even know the extent to which the wreckage had dispersed. As I speak, personnel on the ground continue to expand the search because we dont know exactly where all the remains, fragments, and parts of the aircraft might be, he stated.

He recounted that once the remains were brought down from the hillside, the team met medical personnel at the foot of the hill.

With the body bags they hadsome of which had been sent from AngloGold Ashantithey placed our fallen heroes in those bags decently. We kept them in ambulances and sent them to Kumasi, where they were placed in coffins and draped in national colours befitting their status as patriots of this country. Subsequently, we moved them to Accra, where you saw the kind of reception that was arranged for them, he said.

The CDS acknowledged that the urgency of the situation may have led to deviations from standard practice. Let me say that all these things were done hurriedly. There might have been some mistakes. In the morning when the aircraft was taking off, nobody expected any such disaster. From the crash to Accra, it is possible, likely that some things were done that were not in conformity with our culture, he admitted.

Nonetheless, he maintained that the team acted in the best way possible under the circumstances. But I must tell you that those who were on the ground assessed the situation, and from where I stand, looking back, I think they did the best with the resources they had at hand, he concluded.

We are about completing the preliminary investigations and that is what will inform the kind of investigations that we need to undertake - CDS Lt. Gen. Agyapong pic.twitter.com/wyNxMVNlIh  DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) August 13, 2025

We burnt three body bags - Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive

In an interview with Joy News the Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive, Richard Ofori Agyemang, who was part of the team that went to the crash site said they burnt three body bags.

"We went there with body bags. The bodies, some were picked directly from fire, at the onset we burnt three body bags. So it was not sensible for us to continue on that path and we were not going to leave any of our compatriots there," he said

Watch the video attached below
Featured

Bawumia warns NPP: Focus on ideas, not insults, ahead of 2026 primary

GraphicOnline Politics Aug - 13 - 2025 , 14:50 2 minutes read

Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to maintain civility in the run-up to the partys presidential primary in January 2026, stressing that the contest should focus on ideas rather than personal attacks.

Addressing some NPP youth organisers who presented his flagbearer nomination forms to him on Wednesday, August 13, Dr Bawumia called for a campaign grounded in respect.

I want this flagbearership election to be conducted with decorum. Were not in a campaign of insults, and we should not be in a campaign of insults. It should be about ideas. And that is what will capture the imagination of Ghanaians, he said.

He urged aspirants and their supporters to prioritise solutions over smear tactics.

What ideas do we have? What are we bringing to the table? How are we going to solve the problems Ghanaians face? As a party, I admonish everybody, all the aspirants and our supporters, that let us focus on marketing or selling our respective aspirants.

Dr Bawumia warned that negative campaigning would weaken the NPP and hand its rivals an advantage. When we bring down other people, we bring down the party. Our messages will be taken by our opponents, and they will use them against us.

The former Vice President pledged to lead by example. I will not, and you will never hear me insulting any aspirants. Because when this election is over, we have to contest a general election. And if we divide ourselves today, we will have difficulty in uniting for a general election tomorrow. So, let us begin the process with unity, and end with unity because that will bring victory in 2028.
Featured

NPP Youth Organisers pick flagbearer nomination forms for Dr Bawumia

GraphicOnline Politics Aug - 13 - 2025 , 12:25 2 minutes read

Scores of youth organisers from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Wednesday, August 13, thronged the partys headquarters in Accra to pick up flagbearer nomination forms for former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

The delegation, made up of constituency and regional youth organisers from across the country, arrived in coordinated NPP-branded attire, chanting slogans and singing patriotic songs as they made their way into the premises.

Speaking to the media, youth organiser Isaac Obeng described the move as both a celebration of young people and a milestone in the partys political journey.

Yesterday was International Youth Day, and as youth organisers and deputies from various constituencies, we believe we cannot remain idle in our constituencies without marking this remarkable day, he said.

Obeng added that their action was more than symbolic. We are here today to pick the form for our incoming president, Insha Allah, Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia. We believe this is a gift to him.

He stressed the unity and enthusiasm driving the initiative, pointing out that representatives from numerous constituencies had joined forces for the gesture. You can see here representatives of youth organisers from various constituencies who have come to pick this form, and from here we will move to his residence, his campaign office, where we will officially present the forms to him, he noted.

Obeng expressed strong confidence in Dr Bawumias leadership, suggesting the moment could herald a new era for Ghana. We know that, Insha Allah, this day is the day Ghanas destiny will be rewritten. What the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has done and continues to do shows that the things Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia accomplished as Vice President are exactly what our country needs.
Photo: Ethan Noah Roy

On a sidewalk outside a Home Depot in Cypress Park, Los Angeles, a few weeks ago, a fruit vendor was standing under his rainbow-stripe umbrella, which wasnt doing much to protect him from the sun. What are you feeling like right now? he asked. You like Tajin, lime, chamoy?

He got to work carving honeydew into wedges, fresh coconut into crescents and watermelon into cubes, seasoning everything with shakes of Tajin and splashes of lime before scooping it all into a plastic cup sealed with a sturdy plastic fork tied into the knot of the bag.

Watching a frutero work can feel like taking in a great performance in just a few minutes. El Ninja, a vendor who livestreams his lunch rush near a nondescript Chase bank in La Puente to some 6 million followers, is quick with the santoku and regularly gets visitors from India and Japan. Customers want to see the fruit cut in front of them because that provides an element of freshness, says Dr. Rocio Rosales, author of Fruteros. And they have to prepare it quickly because some people are literally waiting for a bus  theyre always going to choose the bus over the fruit.

It was surprising that this particular vendor was back at all. A few days earlier, an immigration raid led by teams of masked men with assault rifles had swept through the parking lot. The day it happened, we werent here, said the vendor. As soon as ICE showed up, the other fruit vendors left. They left everything. He says he and another frutero who work the same spot on alternating days went back to survey the scene to see whether ICE had returned. Theres a group text, so we all know when someone sees them coming.

Fruteros try to stand out by design so potential customers can spot them. Everybody who knows L.A., says Rosales, knows a fruit vendor. And they are uniquely vulnerable to raids. When theyre all set up, fruteros are alone, which makes them targets, says Bill Esparza, the L.A. food writer and podcast host. In the city and its surrounding areas, at least ten fruteros have been abducted since June 6. In the Westchester neighborhood, one was pushed onto the pavement where he had sold fruit for years. In La Puente, a frutero was whisked into a white SUV by two men wearing inscrutable badges on lanyards. The same men abducted another vendor in Pomona. Immigration authorities took several people from Rosemead Boulevard in El Monte, and a solitary frutero in Norwalk Town Square was taken by someone in full tactical gear. Downtown, a woman reached for a lamppost as she was being dragged away. The wholesale market where fruteros buy produce was itself emptied out after the raids started.

Between June 6 and last week, immigration authorities arrested 4,600 people in the L.A. area. Most were men who worked at car washes, factories, and in construction. But a disproportionate number of the food vendors confronted and abducted by immigration authorities have been women. One tamalera was thrown to the ground and lost consciousness. Another was a taquera who clung to a jacaranda tree before masked men forced her into a car and drove off, tossing tear gas into the street.

To outside observers, it may appear that the wave of arrests that ramped up in June is over. A temporary restraining order that challenged the tactics of immigration authorities is still in place. The Pentagon released about 4,700 National Guard members in the past month, leaving 300 here, and the Justice Department is in court this week to defend their deployment. But the arrests, carried out by Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, continue, including at the Home Depot in Cypress Park.

One vendors fruit selection. Photo: Ethan Noah Roy

Esparza says a pervasive fear has obliterated Latino food culture wherever he goes, a dozen or more places a week. Carts sit empty, and public parks are desolate without vendors. Esparza estimates that sales are down 90 percent across the board. That number is not an exaggeration, he said. Its 90 percent of sales when you count places that are just closed or vendors staying in, plus the ones that are still open and making just $10 for the whole day.

I cant make money now, a vendor in Arlington Heights confirmed, telling me hed served only two customers in an hour. But Im here. I cant hide forever.

Like New Yorks sidewalk vendors, fruteros have always needed to exercise some degree of caution. Formerly, the consequence was a fine or confiscation of tools or, in the worst case, a seized cart, explains Rosales. Most vendors just evaded the city workers and returned the next day. The numbers of fruteros increased after California decriminalized street vending in 2018. Reduced permit fees and the reversal of a ban on vending at tourist sites also helped encourage more vending. The threat of imprisonment and deportation have changed the calculation considerably. Its not the system of a few years ago, Rosales says. The idea that someone might be picked up and shipped to South Sudan, you know? It boggles the mind, but it also increases the cruelty of it.

There is at least some help: The nonprofit group CIELO works with Indigenous Mexicans and Central Americans and provides food and linguistic assistance to those who cant work, as well as to families of detainees. Indigenous people are being kidnapped the most, and nobody talks about that, says CIELO executive director Odilia Romero. Most fruteros come from the Mexican state of Puebla, but at least two of ten arrested since June are Guatemalan and Indigenous. More than a dozen languages (Ixil, Qeqchi, Mixteco) are spoken in this community by people who may be unable to navigate legal hearings. Some are just signing paperwork because theyre scared, but most of the people who were kidnapped are Indigenous, Romero adds. Language barriers play a big role in that.

A separate coalition called the LA Street Vendor Solidarity Fund has so far raised $200,000, and a stopgap strategy has emerged: buying out vendors in an effort to get them off the street. Someone approaches fruit or flower vendors who sell from medians or off-ramps with a short stack of cash for their entire inventory. La Pawnaderia, a Downey dog bakery that is resolutely and cheekily modeled on a panaderia, buys out vendors directly with proceeds from its Chinga La Migra bandannas and biscuits. The first person we met was a 70-year-old flower vendor who also sold oranges and peanuts, says owner Adriana Montoya. Hed had surgeries and was dealing with a tumor. He explained to us that he worked to take care of his wife, who was also disabled.

The buyouts are optimized for social media, but theyre still helping, even if theyre not sustainable in the long term. It makes everyone who follows the vending scene in L.A. nervous. The fruteros, these street vendors, theyre here for us because we want them here, Esparza says. I want to be able to hear the guy outside my window, three blocks away, honking, using his bike horn, letting me know to come out and come out and get something good to eat.

This post was updated to clarify the status of the market where vendors buy ingredients.
Qualcomm already confirmed it plans to host the annual Snapdragon Summit from September 23 -25, where well see the announcement of its Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. But arch-rival MediaTek may one-up Qualcomm by unveiling its Dimensity 9500 flagship chipset a day earlier on September 22.

The latest information comes from tipster Digital Chat Station, who holds a solid track record. The vivo X300 Pro and Oppo Find X9 Pro are expected to be the first devices armed with the Dimensity 9500 chip.

MediaTeks upcoming flagship chip will be fabbed on TSMCs N3P node (3nm) and is expected to feature an eight-core CPU using ARMs latest Cortex-X9 design. A Geekbench listing from earlier this year revealed the CPU will feature a Travis X930 main core clocked @3.23 GHz, 3x Alto cores running @3.03 GHz and 4x Gelas cores ticking @2.23 GHz.

The CPU will be joined by a more efficient Mali-G1-Ultra MC12 GPU, which is reportedly clocked at 1GHz and able to run ray tracing games at over 100fps. The new chip will also feature a boosted NPU rated at 100 TOPS.

Source (in Chinese)
Today Google is launching Preferred Sources in Search for everyone in the US and India. This basically lets you tell Google what your preferred sources for information are, and it will then show you more content from those sources in the Top stories part of Google Search.

The rollout is expected to take a few days. To select your Preferred Sources, click on the icon to the right of "Top stories". You can then search for sources and select the ones you want.

Then, refresh your results and you'll instantly get more from your favorite sites, and your preferences are saved for the future of course. You'll see content from your Preferred Sources both in Top stories and a dedicated "From your sources" section on the search results page.

You will still see content from other sites - your Preferred Sources will just be featured more prominently and more often. You can of course change your source selections at any time, and you can select as many Preferred Sources as you like.

Source
Samsung filed a lawsuit against the Chinese panel maker BOE two years ago, suggesting the company stole trade secrets from the Korean tech giant. And it looks like the US ITC's (International Trade Commission) decision might lead to ban of the import of BOE panels into the US.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the ITC has ruled to ban import of BOE's OLED panels into the US for the next 14 years and 8 months. The ruling isn't final, but the findings that BOE and its seven affiliates have violated the US Tariff Act by selling its panels through misappropriation of Samsung's trade secrets are substantial.

The final verdict is due in November, but experts and analysts believe that the court will likely uphold the ban.

If the ITC carries out the ban, this will give Samsung some breathing room, as in recent years, BOE has been contesting the Korean company's hegemony in the industry. BOE's OLED panels now match Samsung's in terms of quality and performance, while undercutting prices.

Moreover, BOE supplies about 22.7% of the iPhones with its OLED panels, so if the decision to ban BOE's imports of OLED-related products becomes final in November, Apple will be forced to source more of its panels from Samsung and LG.

Apple isn't the only US-based company that will suffer from such a trade ban. HP and Dell both use BOE panels for some of their products.

Via
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The long-held promise of the Legislatures Republican caucus to roll back the business privilege tax from 5% to 4% got a step closer to reality on Wednesday.

Amendments to the government of Guams upcoming budget act that passed Wednesday night would reduce the business privilege tax from 5% to 4.5% by Oct. 1, 2025, and again to 4% by Oct. 1, 2026, if the measure becomes law.

Republican Speaker Frank Blas Jr. said Wednesday could be called a day of reckoning after senators spent four years growing GovGuams budget by about $100 million a year.

Let me speak for the other group of employees that exist on this island, Blas said. Those employees that no longer have a paycheck because businesses are closed, those employees that didnt get pay raises over the last five years.

Democrat Sen. Therese Terlaje, meanwhile, said lawmakers could have reduced taxes with a plan, if they used the scalpel instead of a chainsaw.

All those organizations that are arguing for government support are going to be faced with what...the hospital is faced with. Theres no money. There could have been money, but there is no money, she said.

Voting

Republican Sen. Shawn Gumataotao successfully amended the 2026 budget bill to raise the BPT rollback from a 0.5% to 1% by late 2026.

Gumataotaos amendment passed in a vote of 8-7, split almost neatly down party lines.

Sen. Telo Taitague was the sole member of the Republican majority who did not vote for the 1% rollback.

Taitague passed on a vote three times and was counted as a nay.

Not one of the six Democrat senators voted in favor of the rollback.

Veto-proof?

Lawmakers moved to a vote after day three of grilling Gov. Lou Leon Guerreros fiscal team about the potential impacts of the proposed budget and the BPT rollback.

As evening approached and as the time for amendments came, the Guam Congress Buildings public viewing gallery was filled with business representatives from the Guam Chamber of Commerce and Guam Contractors Association to advocate for the tax rollback.

Opponents of reducing the business tax have pointed to between $78 million and $81 million in lost tax revenue for GovGuam operations each year.

Proponents point to increasing government spending and a struggling private sector. A rollback of the business privilege tax by 1 point equates to a 20% overall reduction in BPT tax for any one business.

Right after the rollback passed Wednesday, Democrat Sen. Chris Barnett tried to reverse it. His amendment failed.

The governor has vocally opposed the BPT rollback. A regular bill would need bipartisan support from 10 senators to override an expected veto.

But Adelup spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin has said the governor cant line-item veto the rollback in what Adelup has called the big broken budget.

Republican budget chairman Sen. Chris Duenas told the Pacific Daily News last week that unless the governor vetoes the entire budget, the rollback will ride.

Millionaires vs bloated GovGuam

Several Republican lawmakers argued the rollback would relieve the tax burden put on Guams private sector.

Gumataotao said the governments unwillingness to return the 4% BPT rate reflected a larger problem.

He said it showed an over-reliance on taxing the private sector to make up for budget imbalances, rather than right sizing government, improving efficiency, we continue to extract more from the very businesses that generate jobs and drive economic activity.

GovGuam was flush with cash, while the private sector that employed 77% of the workforce on Guam struggled.

Payoff for corporations

Democrat Barnett said the bill would benefit the biggest companies on the island, as businesses making less than $500,000 annually are already taxed at a BPT rate of 3% in Guam law.

Any tax cut would go in the pockets of those big bad businesses, not employees, or the little people, he said.

I just want to again plead to the people of Guam that what this budget bill does is it jeopardizes critical public services in favor of a $40 million payoff for corporations who, as Ive said, I dont think deserve that payoff at this time, Barnett said.

Democrat Sen. Sabina Perez said she was open to a tiered approach to rolling back taxes on businesses, but the rollback came without considering changes to federal funding.

We are leaving services in the lurch, and we havent even considered the full impact of the big, beautiful bill when it comes to defunding agencies and increases in deductions that would lower our revenue sources, Perez said.

Republican Vice Speaker Tony Ada said GovGuam continued to ride off the backs of local businesses while failing to properly collect as much as $138 million in leaked taxes.

You know, here we are talking about the big bad businesses that employ our people that give them work so that their families can put food on their tables, Ada said.

Disclose your benefit

Barnett at one point asked for senators to disclose whether they or their families would benefit from the tax rollback.

I think the people of Guam deserve to know who raised their hand in support of this and who stands to benefit off of this discount, he said.

Ada said he had no problem disclosing his family business. Adas family runs Adas Mortuary Inc.

Is my family business going to  benefit from this rollback? Perhaps. But then my family businesses also paid the 5% when the 5% was there, so up or down, it does not matter, he said. We will pay our due taxes.

No senator had recused themselves from voting on $100 a month power credits in the past, despite their own benefit, he said.

Budget chairman Duenas said that per legal counsels advice, lawmakers did not have to recuse themselves from a vote or disclose any financial interest if a vote would benefit the whole island, and not them in particular.

Oh: Blaming businesses is absurd

Guam Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman Tae Oh, present at the Guam Congress Building on Wednesday afternoon, said politicians could not place the blame for poor government services on the private sector.

Like everyone else, Chamber of Commerce members wanted to see better schools, a better hospital, and better services, he said.

To blame the chamber for education shortfalls, the hospital issues, all of the tax refunds, I think is absurd, Oh said. Gov Guam had a budget surplus for how many years? Seven years theyve been collecting 5% (BPT). Has government services improved? Has the hospital improved? Has education improved? No.

He said $41 million was a drop in the bucket with GovGuams budget going from $800 million seven years ago, to nearly $1.4 billion today.

If passed, the $1.351 billion fiscal year 2026 budget act will be another record-setter for GovGuam.

Businesses grossing over $2 million annually, which would benefit from the tax rollback, did not pocket all their revenue, Oh said. They paid out their taxes after covering equipment, supplies, and payroll, he said.

Were asking, Give us a break, considering that the economy is not doing well, he added.
An Asan resident who says the government redrew his property map years ago and stuck a boundary line through his house is asking the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority board of commissioners to fix the issue.

Malcolm Stiles appealed to GHURA leadership during a Tuesday board meeting.

Stiles, a civil engineer who said hes lived on Guam since the 1980s, said the problem came about when GHURA redeveloped Asan years ago.

GHURA stepped in to redevelop Asan and change its old Spanish-era layout in the 1980s, according to Guampedia.

At the time, of course, the village was very underdeveloped, Stiles said Tuesday. There were numerous problems in many, many areas. And as we all recall, there was a severe flood that brought all the trouble.

Part of the redevelopment project involved redrawing property lot lines in the village, he told the board.

The line that GHURA established just cut through a corner of my building. Clearly there was a mistake made in the survey, Stiles said.

On the other side of the property line is a Guam Waterworks Authority water well system, which sits on GHURA property, according to agency legal counsel Eliseo Florig Jr.

Florig described Stiles property as encroaching on GHURAs land.

According to Stiles, the GWA facility was put in during redevelopment of the village, which addressed Asans waterway and flooding issues.

Stiles said he brought the matter up to GHURA leadership about five years ago and has been trying to get the issue corrected. For the past two years, he said hes talked to Florig and GHURA Executive Director Elizabeth Napoli to fix the problem.

The property owner said they initially assured him they would work on it, but delays led him to seek the boards help directly.

Ive heard nothing in two years, and repeated messages that I have mentioned and written in asking for progress have not been answered, he said.

Im going to go ahead and respectfully disagree with Mr. Stiles, Florig replied.

According to Florig, GHURAs Community Development Division had looked into the matter, but stumbled into another problem.

Property that was part of the boundary dispute was not solely owned by GHURA, but another family.

This owner weve been trying to contact since Mr. Stiles came to us, Florig told the board.

But they were unable to contact either the property owner or their heirs, he said.

Florig said Stiles would be getting an official letter within the week about the next steps in resolving the issue.

Either an arrangement could be made to fix the issue, or Stiles could get the chance to purchase the property at fair market value, he said.

We are very apologetic for it taking so long for him to be able to get some resolution to his inquiry, Florig said.

He said Stiles could work with GHURA staff, and then bring the matter back to the board.

Stiles told the board he would like to bring the matter back to them in their September meeting.

GHURA Board Vice Chairman Nathanael Sanchez thanked Stiles and Florig for raising the issue. He said the board was not previously aware of it.

Regardless of what you may have encountered in the past, you know this is not the same board that was here years ago, Sanchez told Stiles. Were definitely going to take this seriously.
The Singapore Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Department of Defense mutually agreed to discontinue plans to host 12 Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15 fighter jets at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam.

Thats according to a statement released by Singapores Ministry of Defence on Monday, in response to media inquiries about the cancellation.

The ministry said Singapore and the U.S. have excellent and long-standing bilateral defense cooperation.

We thank the U.S. Department of Defence (DoD) for their continued support of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF)s training detachments in the U.S., which are integral to the RSAFs honing of its operational capabilities, the ministry said.

The statement said following a review of the Singapore Air Force training needs, the Singapore Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Department of Defense had mutually agreed to discontinue discussions on an RSAF fighter training detachment in Guam.

Singapore, however, will continue with periodic short-term training and exercises on Guam, such as an upcoming fighter training detachment from October to November, the ministry said.

We are also working with the U.S. on a new fighter training detachment at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas, which will host the RSAFs future F-35 fighter training, the ministry said.

The U.S. Department of the Air Force, in a July 16 Record of Decision, said the plans to host F-15 fighter jets from Singapore at Andersen have been canceled.

The (Department of the Air Force) will not implement or carry forward the beddown of up to 12 Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-15 aircraft nor associated aircraft airfield operations, to include temporary support aircraft, and RSAF personnel or their families and no periodic temporary increases in associated support personnel will be required at Andersen AFB, according to the July 16 decision.

The U.S. Air Force said the decision was based on:

operational analysis, results of site surveys, and environmental, economic, and technical factors

environmental impacts as analyzed in the environmental impact statement

input from the public and government agencies

military judgment factors

The original plans were to build an aircraft hangar, airfield, fuel systems, fencing, parking, and magazines to support the beddown of a dozen F-15s for the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

According to the impact study, the beddown of the new aircraft would have increased total airfield operations, sorties, and closed patterns at Andersen by about 32%.

2019 MOU

Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen and U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a fighter training detachment at Andersen Air Force Base in December 2019.

According to the Singapore Ministry of Defence, the Singapore Armed Forces have been training in Guam since the 1990s and has had periodic deployments of RSAF fighter aircraft to Guam since 2017.

Guam would have been the fourth RSAF detachment in the U.S., according to the Ministry of Defence.

New infrastructure

Although plans to host the Singapore fighter jets are canceled, the Air Force said it will still move forward with other construction.

The Air Force will construct a new aircraft parking apron and associated buildings and utilities on the northwest side of the existing runway at Andersen Air Force Base, according to the Record of Decision.

Construction includes approximately 20 acres of new airfield pavements on the northwest side of the existing runway and includes new fuel lines that tie into the existing fuel transfer system, utilities vault and new utilities lines, security fencing, roadways, parking, walkways and stormwater management infrastructure, the decision stated.

Once construction is complete, the expanded North Ramp will be used for aircraft parking, storage, maintenance, refueling, loading, and unloading consistent with existing installation operations, the decision stated.

According to the decision, it would improve upon current strategic capabilities and posture with regard to ground maneuverability.
Cannabis on Guam has been legal for medical use since 2015 and legal for recreational use since April 2019. Guam was the first United States territory to legalize medical marijuana, passing via a ballot referendum in 2014.

Fast forward August 2025, its not stood up. No dispensaries, no labs. Nothing, while many who can benefit from cannabis continue to suffer.

In national news, President Donald Trump is taking a new look at reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug in a move that could nudge the federal government closer to an approach already embraced in many states.

Trump said he hopes to decide in the coming weeks about whether to support changes to the way marijuana is regulated.

Here are some of the benefits of medical cannabis. Research and patient experiences have shown cannabis can help with a wide range of conditions, including:

Pain management. Chronic pain, especially neuropathic pain, often responds better to cannabis than to opioids, without the same overdose risk.

Cancer-related symptoms. Can reduce nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy. Stimulates appetite for patients experiencing weight loss.

Neurological disorders. Reduces seizure frequency in epilepsy (e.g., CBD-based Epidiolex is FDA-approved). May help with multiple sclerosis related muscle spasms and stiffness.

Mental health support. Some evidence supports it may also provide relief from PTSD symptoms. Can aid in sleep disorders.

May help reduce dependence on more dangerous substances, including opioids and alcohol.

Should be removed from Schedule I

Under U.S. federal law, Schedule I means a substance has:

No accepted medical use

High potential for abuse

Lack of safety under medical supervision

Cannabis clearly fails to meet those criteria. Medical use is documented in peer reviewed studies and legal in over 30 U.S. states.

The addiction potential is lower than alcohol, nicotine, or opioids. Safety under medical supervision is well established.

The bottom line is that keeping cannabis as Schedule I blocks research, limits patient access, and ignores decades of medical evidence. Moving it to a lower schedule or de-scheduling entirely would allow doctors to prescribe it freely, enable better research, and give patients safer options for relief.

Is this how we roll in Guam or should I say crawl? Years have passed and we have yet to implement its distribution or cultivation.
As I have said in earlier columns, I do not believe Guam is following certain federal laws on elections.

I believe the offices that are affected include the delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives, the governor of Guam, members of the Guam Legislature and the Guam attorney general. Primary elections should not be used as a qualification to run for these offices on the general election ballot.

In the federal laws that authorize these positions, the methods and process used to elect these persons are specified. The elections for these offices require placement on a ballot at the general election.

Guam election laws require candidates for these positions to endure a predominantly partisan primary election to receive placement on the general election ballot.

Further, Guam law makes it very difficult for independent candidates to be placed on the ballot. This effectively bars certain candidates from placement on the general election ballot and denies Guam voters the opportunity to vote for a candidate of their choice.

The general election ballots for these offices should include all eligible candidates. Other U.S. territories do not bar independent candidates from the general election ballot. Further, the U.S. Virgin Islands schedules runoff elections well in advance in case they are needed for the delegate or governor positions.

All voters on Guam are precluded from voting for candidates of their choice at the general election. This improper use of primary elections effectively bars candidates from the general election ballot.

Current Guam law allows for frequent party raiding and further creates a monopoly for the two traditional political parties on Guam.

These election practices appear to contribute to racial under-representation in the Guam Legislature, particularly in terms of Filipino representation. All else equal, Filipinos should be represented in the Guam Legislature by about one third or five members.

I have attempted to lobby the Guam Legislature to bring election processes in line with federal laws but there was no interest by senators to make corrections. Political parties could make a stronger effort to be more representative but to date, this has been a non-issue.

In 1998 and 2018, it was obvious that Guam experienced what the U.S. Supreme Court terms party raiding.

In 1998, about 95% of the voters voted Democrat in the primary to try to compete with then Gov. Carl Gutierrez. The effort did not even come close to working and Gutierrez received 51% of the Democrat votes anyway.

In 2018, it was obvious that party raiding was used against Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo. But for this type of scheme, Congresswoman Bordallo would have been re-elected. In effect, Guam threw away a major benefit of House seniority by allowing this practice and it was simply unfair.

Partisan primaries are used for party selections and candidates not selected are allowed to run on the general election ballot as independent in other U.S. territories.

Title 3, Chapter 15 of the Guam Code requires all candidates to meet certain primary election thresholds in order to be named on the general election ballot. Candidates not meeting these thresholds at the partisan primary election are not allowed to be included on the general election ballot.

Even more, independent candidates are required to have twice as many minimum votes compared to the two current political parties.

The term general election is well defined in federal law and case law. For Guam, the initial dates for various general elections are mentioned. A general election is to occur on the same dates as other federal office general elections.

Primary elections are not provided for in the laws on Guam elections. The CNMI and American Samoa are allowed to hold primary elections for delegates and only a plurality is needed at the general election. Guam and the USVI are covered by different laws.

USVI does things right. I dont think Guam is following federal laws.




Haiti - FLASH : Barbecue indicted in the USA, reward of up to $5 million





Tuesday August 12, 2025, an indictment was unsealed in U.S. District Court (Columbia) charging Jimmy Cherizier, also known as "Barbecue", 48, of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Bazile Richardson, also known as Fredo, Fred Lion, Leo Danger, and Lepe Blode, 48, a naturalized U.S. citizen, with leading a conspiracy to transfer funds from the United States to Cherizier to fund his gang activities in Haiti in violation of the U.S sanctions imposed on Cherizier. Cherizier is a fugitive believed to be Haiti. Richardson was arrested on July 23 in Pasadena, Texas https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45485-haiti-flash-major-haitian-barbecue-sponsor-arrested-in-the-usa.html



Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas N. Saunders for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Beau Barnes of the National Security Divisions Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Paschall, Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Seifert, and former Trial Attorney Benjamin Koenigsfeld. Significant support was provided by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Texas, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and the Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince.



The U.S. Attorneys office is committed to apprehending Cherizier and bringing him to justice, along with individuals like defendant Richardson, who has sent money and other support to Cherizier from the United States in violation of U.S. sanctions.



Concurrent with the indictment, the U.S. Department of States Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Cherizier.



Cherizier is the leader of "Viv Ansanm", which was designated by the Secretary of State on May 2nd, 2025, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44822-haiti-politic-us-designates-viv-ansanm-and-gran-grif-as-foreign-terrorist-organizations-official.html , and is a central figure responsible for gang violence in Haiti. Notorious for his total disregard of human dignity, Cherizier is directly involved in the mass murder and rape of Haitian civilians.



In December 2020, Cherizier and two Haitian public officials were designated for sanctions under the Global MagnitskyHuman Rights Accountability Act (Global Magnitsky) for their roles in the La Saline massacre and severe human rights abuses in Haiti.



Todays reward offer complements the Department of Justices unsealing of the indictment of Cherizier in the District of Columbia, charging him with one count of conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Cherizier avoided sanctions placed on him in 2020 under the Global Magnitsky Act. His co-defendant, Brazile Richardson, also made his initial appearance in Washington, D.C., Tuesday.







Todays reward offer is authorized by the Secretary under the Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP), which supports law enforcement efforts to disrupt transnational crime globally and bring fugitives to justice. If you have information, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at https://tips.fbi.gov/home . Information may also be provided to HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or online at www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form. If you are located outside of the United States, you may also visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are in the United States, you can also contact the local FBI office in your city.



All identities are strictly confidential. Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards.



Download Wanted Notice in French in PDF :

https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/avis-recherche-wanted-jimmy-cherizier-5-millions-fr.pdf

Download Wanted Notice in Englisgh in PDF :

https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/avis-recherche-wanted-jimmy-cherizier-5-millions-en.pdf

Download Wanted Notice in Creol in PDF :

https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/avis-recherche-wanted-jimmy-cherizier-5-millions-kr.pdf



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45485-haiti-flash-major-haitian-barbecue-sponsor-arrested-in-the-usa.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44822-haiti-politic-us-designates-viv-ansanm-and-gran-grif-as-foreign-terrorist-organizations-official.html



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Religion : Crime in the country is limitless dixit Mgr. Mesidor





The Archbishop of Haiti Mgr. Max Leroy Mesidor expressed in his name and in that of the Haiti episcopal conference, his gratitude for the words of Pope Leo XIV during the angelus of August 10 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45526-haiti-religion-pope-leo-xiv-asks-the-international-community-to-support-haiti.html , for the Haitian people.



"The episcopal conference of Haiti thanks the Holy Father, Pope Leon XIV, for his cry on behalf of the Haitian people and for his call to the international community so that it has more decisive and concrete measures in the face of the situation in Haiti," said Mgr Max Leroy Mesidor, Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, in statements to the Vatican media.



In the poorest country of America, now dominated by armed bands, even the funeral has become currency : to bury a family member, a tax must be paid to the criminal groups that control cemeteries and funeral processions. In a country where, out of 11.7 million inhabitants, around 60 % live in poverty, there are few that can afford such expenses. So much so that, in rural areas like Petite-Riviere and Artibonite, families walk for hours [with their death] to avoid cemeteries controlled by criminals. And this is precisely what the Archbishop of Port-au-Prince denounced to the Vatican media: "The Church of Haiti notes that crime no longer knows any limits in our country..."



The kidnapping of 9 people, including a 3-year-old child from the Sainte-Helene orphanage in Kenscoff https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45476-haiti-flash-9-people-including-a-child-kidnapped-from-an-orphanage-in-kenscoff.html , testify of that. This barbaric act is one of the many signs of the bankruptcy of the State and a society with loss of sense of life and human dignity."



The Pope's words on Sunday calling for the "immediate liberation of hostages" and reaffirming the need for "concrete support for the international community" for Haiti, tore the veil of indifference to a crisis that the world tends to relegate to the margins of news, but which, on the contrary, is part of a "fragmented third world war" capable of devouring not only lives,



The most recent data, provided by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (HCDH), confirm it : during the first half of 2025, more than 3,000 people were killed by criminal violence https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45478-haiti-flash-one-haitian-killed-or-injured-every-hour.html . The UN agency also cites the death of 136 children, 185 kidnappings and 628 cases of sexual violence : a real war record, to which are added 1.3 million inappropriate people, 5 million people needing food aid and 217,000 children suffering from acute malnutrition.



"We hope that the Popes appeal will be heard by the Haitian authorities and the international community," added Archbishop Mesidor. "The latter has multiplied meetings on the situation in our country, but the results are terribly slow. The multinational security support mission (MMSS) has a very limited impact. There is a serious shortage of workforce and logistical resources."



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45526-haiti-religion-pope-leo-xiv-asks-the-international-community-to-support-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45478-haiti-flash-one-haitian-killed-or-injured-every-hour.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45476-haiti-flash-9-people-including-a-child-kidnapped-from-an-orphanage-in-kenscoff.html



HL/ S/ Haitilibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Storm Erin does not threaten Haiti

Tropical Storm Erin continues its path and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane this week, but it does not currently pose a threat to Haiti. The Hydro-Meteorological Unit continues to monitor its movements to inform the population of the evolution of this tropical system.



Ways to strengthen FAdH ?

Jean-Michel Moise, Haiti's Minister of Defense, met with Carlos G. Ruiz Massieu, head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). The discussion focused on combating growing insecurity and concrete options for strengthening the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H). This meeting was particularly constructive, with the examination of possible solutions ranging from operational capacity building to integrated approaches to human and logistical resource development.



Laurent Saint-Cyr talks with Jocelerme Privert

Laurent Saint-Cyr, the President pro tempore of the Transitional Council, spoke with former President Jocelerme Privert. "I expressed my gratitude for this frank and constructive exchange. We discussed issues related to governance, urgent reforms, as well as the need to put the country into election mode while quickly restoring security. It is essential to return to constitutional order and place the country on the path to stability."



International Youth Day

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, as part of International Youth Day and with the participation of UNICEF Haiti, the French Embassy welcomed a delegation of children and adolescents from the "Rezo Fanm Kapap Dayiti" from vulnerable neighborhoods in Carrefour to the Residence. France reaffirms its commitment to supporting Haitian youth in their educational, cultural, and civic initiatives through projects supported by the Embassy, the French Institute, the French Development Agency (AFD), and Expertise France.



Condolences from the PAP City Hall

The Port-au-Prince Municipal Administration offers its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic accident that occurred Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Morne de Canape-Vert https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45525-haiti-news-zapping.html "Our thoughts are with the injured, to whom we wish a speedy recovery." To avoid such tragedies, the City Hall reminds all drivers of heavy equipment (dump trucks, trailers, flatbeds, etc...) to use John Brown Avenue (Bourdon) exclusively for their travel between Port-au-Prince and Petion-Ville, in both directions. The City Hall requests the Haitian National Police (PNH) to take all necessary measures to enforce this measure and punish violators.



75th Anniversary of the Haitian Institute of Statistics

Founded in 1950 as the National Census Bureau, the Haitian Institute of Statistics and Informatics (IHSI), whose mission is to collect, analyze, and disseminate statistical data on demographic trends, the economy, and human development, has launched its program of activities celebrating its 75th anniversary. As part of this program, the IHSI is planning panels on data governance, training sessions for young people in schools and universities across the country, radio and television appearances, and university competitions on public policy and data governance.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Donald Trump demanded the immediate resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan just a few days ago. On Monday, Tan visited the US President in the White House. Intel then spoke of an open and constructive discussion about Intel's commitment to strengthening US leadership in technology and manufacturing. Mr. Trump was impressed: The meeting was a very interesting one. (Mr. Tan's) success and rise is an inspiring story.

Anzeige

The announcement of Tan's visit to the White House already supported Intel's share price, which rose 3.5 percent on Monday. After the meeting, the shares rose a further two percent to the day's closing price in after-hours trading. In addition to Tan and Trump, the meeting was attended by Trade Minister Howard Lutnick and Finance Minister Scott Bessent.

It is not known exactly what the men discussed. After the meeting, Trump announced that his cabinet and Tan would spend time with each other. They are to submit proposals next week.

Tan has been Chief Executive Officer of the loss-making computer chip company Intelsince mid-March. From 2022 to 2024, he was a member of the board of directors of the chip company. Prior to that, from 2008 to 2021, the Malaysian-born CEO ran the company Cadence Design Systems. It offers software for chip development (Electronic Design Automation, EDA), the design tools.

Cotton's furor and Trump's demand

On Wednesday, Trump's party colleague and Senator Tom Cotton posed critical questions to Intel's Board of Directors. The Texan politician expressed his concern about Tan's links to and involvement in Chinese computer chip companies, which allegedly have links to the Communist Party and the People's Liberation Army of the People's Republic of China.

Cotton also pointed out that Cadence had just pleaded guilty to evading export bans to China. Cadence has admitted to supplying the Chinese National University of Defense Technology (NUDT) with design tools for years, even though the university has been under a US embargo since 2015 due to its links to the Chinese military. This happened via third-party companies from 2015 to 2020, when Tan was CEO of Cadences.

Anzeige

As a result, Trump demanded Tan's resignation. Tan initially responded with a circular to his staff, which was also published immediately. In it, he emphasized his love for the United States and Intel and underlined that he would act in accordance with the highest legal and ethical standards. He did not really deny the allegations themselves but only spoke in general terms of a lot of misinformation about his previous activities. The canossa trip to Washington followed on Monday.

(ds)

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.
The deal, announced on Tuesday, will add Lumme Energias nearly 350,000 customers to Oomis existing base of over 500,000, bringing the total to around 800,000. The acquisition, which requires approval from the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority, is scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2026.

Oomi is set to overtake Fortum and Helen as Finlands largest electricity retailer following its purchase of Lumme Energia from Suur-Savon Sahko (SSSOY).

Oomi, founded in 2020, is owned by a consortium including Vantaan Energia, Oulun Energia, Lahti Energia, Pori Energia, Oulun Seudun Sahko, Tornion Energia and Haukiputaan Sahkoosuuskunta. Fortum and Helen each have about 600,000 Finnish customers.

The purchase price has not been disclosed. Under the agreement, the Lumme Energia brand will transfer to Oomi, though the name under which services will be sold in future remains undecided. Current customers will not need to take any action as a result of the change.

Lumme Energia reported a loss of more than 5 million last year. In spring 2024, SSSOY CEO Mikael Venalainen said sustaining its electricity sales business would require doubling its customer base.

In recent years, Finlands electricity retail market has become increasingly concentrated, with companies forming joint sales entities. Oomi itself was created through such consolidation. SSSOY initially resisted the trend, expanding through acquisitions of regional providers between 2020 and 2021, but suffered heavy losses in the wake of volatile wholesale electricity prices, including 46 million in losses from the Loiste deal.

SSSOY will continue to operate in electricity distribution, district heating, solar energy, maintenance services, and telecom infrastructure through its six subsidiaries.

HT
In Lappeenranta, UPM Biofuels is preparing to start commercial production of SAF by refining its existing renewable diesel product. The facility currently produces renewable diesel from crude tall oil, a by-product of softwood pulp manufacturing.

UPM, Neste and St1 are advancing plans to produce renewable jet fuel from forest industry residues. The shift aims to meet growing EU requirements for sustainable aviation fuel, known as SAF.

Petri Rekonen, director of the Lappeenranta biorefinery, said UPM has already tested the fuel in a dual-engine turboprop aircraft. One engine ran on renewable fuel produced at the plant, the other on conventional jet fuel.

The results show our fuel performs well in aircraft, Rekonen said.

UPM is waiting for international approval to use tall oil as a SAF feedstock. The approval process through ASTM, a global standard-setting body, takes about two and a half years. Once granted, UPM will decide whether to launch full-scale SAF production.

The Lappeenranta plant has an annual capacity of 130,000 tonnes of renewable diesel and naphtha. It sources crude tall oil from a nearby pulp mill, as well as from other facilities in Finland and the United States.

One tonne of pulp yields 20 to 30 kilograms of tall oil. Due to its limited availability, the substance is also used to produce animal feed, paints, adhesives and plant-based sterols for cholesterol treatment.

While UPM focuses on tall oil, St1 is exploring other forest-based materials. In cooperation with Swedish forestry company SCA, St1 plans a biorefinery in Ostrand, Sweden. The facility would use sawdust, bark and other industrial wood residues to produce SAF and e-fuels.

Olli Lahdenpera, head of renewable fuels at St1, said the market supply of tall oil is insufficient for multiple producers.

Only about two million tonnes of tall oil is available, and just a third of that is used in fuel production, Lahdenpera said.

The Ostrand refinery would use feedstocks currently used for heat generation. The site would also process logging residues, which are largely unused in Sweden. Half of the refinerys output would be SAF and the rest e-fuels.

Lahdenpera said the investment, estimated in the billions of euros, would only proceed if long-term pricing support is introduced for e-fuels.

A mechanism is needed to guarantee price stability for at least ten years, he said. The facility could begin operations in the early 2030s.

Neste is also developing technologies to expand its use of forest waste and lignocellulosic biomass. The company already sources used cooking oil and animal fat for fuel production, but sees limited room for growth in waste-based inputs.

Carl Nyberg, head of renewable products sales at Neste, said the company is researching new feedstocks to scale production.

We have the capability to use tall oil, Nyberg said, adding that the firm has also studied the energy potential of lignocellulosic materials for some time.

Neste estimates that renewable fuels based on forest residues could eventually replace the energy content of 350 million tonnes of crude oil.

Since January 2025, EU regulations require all jet fuel sold at major European airports to contain at least two percent SAF. That figure will rise to 70 percent by 2050.

Marie Owens Thomsen, chief economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said SAF will be critical to reaching aviations 2050 net-zero targets. Most production technologies are still under development or in pilot stages.

All possible feedstocks and technologies must be used, Thomsen said. She added that each region must rely on its natural advantages. For the Nordic countries, these include forest residues and renewable electricity.

Thomsen criticised the lack of financial incentives for SAF production. She compared the situation to early wind and solar investments, which received annual global funding of USD 150 billion during market formation.

That same level of investment is now needed for SAF, she said.

Thomsen also noted that current market dynamics favour fossil fuel production due to higher returns. Still, she expects SAF prices to decline in the coming years, despite an oversupply that exists today.

In Finland, investment in green energy is rising. Data from the Confederation of Finnish Industries shows EUR 233 million in fossil fuel replacement projects will be completed this year. Most funding has gone into electric boiler systems, but none of the projects will increase SAF production.

HT
In a post on X, Grahn-Laasonen described full-face coverings as incompatible with school life, citing equality, childrens rights and safety. She also called the broader use of headscarves a difficult question of religious freedom.

Finlands Minister for Social Security Sanni Grahn-Laasonen has said burkas and niqabs should not be worn in schools, arguing that children should be able to live freely in Finnish society.

We have to have the courage to talk about how we protect women from oppressive religious cultures and work to ensure that no one in Finland has to cover their face, she wrote.

Burkas and niqabs are worn in some Islamic communities for religious and cultural reasons. The burka covers the entire body and face, while the niqab covers the face except for the eyes.

The ministers comments follow a call last month by Finance Minister Riikka Purra for a total ban on burkas, niqabs and headscarves, particularly in schools. In 2024, 15 Finns Party MPs proposed banning all face coverings in public spaces.

Education Minister Anders Adlercreutz told Helsingin Sanomat that while schools can address face coverings from safety and identification perspectives, he does not back legislation to impose restrictions.

The debate over Islamic dress in Finlands educational institutions mirrors broader discussions in Europe, where several countries have implemented bans or limits on full-face coverings in public spaces.

HT
Doctors and drug counsellors say users are arriving in a confused or agitated state, often needing restraint for their own safety and for the protection of others.

Hospitals in Helsinki report a sharp increase in emergency patients who were unaware they had taken alpha-PVP, a synthetic stimulant often mixed into other drugs such as cocaine and amphetamine.

Kimmo Suojanen, chief physician at HUS Acute, said the spike began earlier this summer.

Patients come in thinking theyve used cocaine or amphetamine, and it turns out theyve been exposed to alpha-PVP. The number of cases has exploded, Suojanen said.

The substance, commonly known in Finland as peukku or thumb, has been appearing more frequently in samples seized by police and in anecdotal reports from users. The Helsinki police say seizures of alpha-PVP have increased by 763 percent compared to the previous year.

According to Jenny Kaasinen-Wickman, planning officer at the A-Clinic Foundation, the risk is highest for casual and recreational users. Many are unaware that the drugs they purchase have been altered or replaced entirely.

People think theyre buying amphetamine, and it turns out to be pure peukku, she said.

Kaasinen-Wickman, who has worked in addiction services for 15 years, said she has never seen a drug with such intense effects appearing so widely in the street supply.

Substances like this can lead to dangerous situations very quickly, she said.

Users have described disorientation, aggression, and paranoia after taking unknown doses of alpha-PVP. In some cases, emergency staff have had to physically restrain patients to prevent harm.

Suojanen confirmed that the drugs unpredictable effects have led to complex medical interventions.

Patients have been tied down and sedated. Its been necessary, he said.

Emergency units and low-threshold support services across Helsinki have noticed the trend. At Symppis day centres in Sornainen, staff report that many users now suspect their drugs contain alpha-PVP, whether deliberately or through cross-contamination.

Kaasinen-Wickman said the situation is worsened by legal barriers to identifying substances. Finnish law prohibits possession of illegal drugs, including for testing purposes, which can deter users from checking the content of what they buy.

She urged anyone using drugs to consider ordering a home test kit online.

The A-Clinic Foundation does not support drug use, but acknowledges the need to reduce harm.

If someone is worried about what theyve bought, testing is the best available safeguard, Kaasinen-Wickman said.

Kimmo Sainio, detective inspector with Helsinki police, warned that no street drug is guaranteed pure.

Users should be aware that any drug may contain a different active substance, and that using drugs always involves risk, he said.

Reports also suggest that some partygoers are now taking alpha-PVP deliberately. The drug has appeared more frequently in the citys club culture, particularly during spring and summer.

Though many exposures remain accidental, Kaasinen-Wickman confirmed that intentional use has increased.

Local residents have noticed changes. A woman living in Sornainen told Yle she sees drug transactions outside her window every day.

She said her neighbours flat is known locally as a source of alpha-PVP.

Theyre selling peukku next door. People aged 20 to 30 come regularly. They look like any other young adults, she said.

The woman, who did not wish to be named, said the drugs open use and strong effects are disturbing.

Some users are afraid of it, but avoiding it is difficult if its already mixed into what you buy, she said.

She described overhearing workers in local support services say that many young users are now exposed to the drug unintentionally.

If youre taking something at a party, theres no way to know whats in it, she said.

She called the situation a serious threat to Helsinkis youth and rejected the idea that the problem is confined to one district.

This isnt just a Kurvi issue. This is a bigger societal problem, she said.

HT
The call follows an advisory opinion issued in July 2024 by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which found that states have a duty to prevent trade and investment ties that support illegal situations, such as the occupation maintained by Israel in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights. The ICJ opinion also applies to Finland.

Finnish civil society organisation Finnwatch is calling for a national ban on imports of goods produced in Israeli settlements located in occupied Palestinian territories. The group says Finland should follow the example of Slovenia and Ireland, which have recently taken steps to halt trade with companies operating in settlements deemed illegal under international law.

Sonja Finer, executive director of Finnwatch, said trade with settlement-based companies strengthens an economy that supports violations of international law.

Israeli settlements are a major obstacle to peace. Companies operating in illegal settlements enable the occupation to continue. This economy must not be supported, Finer said.

Israeli settlements are Jewish residential areas built in territories occupied by Israel after 1967. These include the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. Despite international opposition, Israeli officials have recently suggested building settlements in Gaza as well.

The Finnish government has previously supported proposals for an EU-wide import ban on settlement goods. Finnwatch argues that Finland does not need to wait for a joint European decision to take action.

Finland could follow the example of Ireland and Slovenia by introducing its own national import ban, Finer said.

The Slovenian government announced its ban in August. In Ireland, a draft law is currently under parliamentary review.

Products from settlements sold in Finland include cosmetics, wine, herbs and fruit. Finnwatch says these products are often mislabelled, making it difficult for consumers to identify them. Settlement goods may also appear in processed foods and restaurant menus without consumers knowledge.

A national ban would block financial flows that support the occupation. But more importantly, it would increase pressure on the EU and send a clear message to companies profiting from illegal occupation, Finer said.

Last week, Finnwatch submitted a formal initiative to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, urging the governments advisory board on corporate social responsibility to issue guidance for businesses on how to avoid economic ties to settlements and potential war crimes.

Discussion in Finland about corporate involvement in war crimes and illegal occupation is active. Businesses need clear instructions on how to comply with international standards, Finer said.

HT
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi will travel to Berlin on Wednesday to join German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a video conference with US President Donald Trump , ahead of Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

EU leaders have signalled support for Trumps efforts to end the war in Ukraine, while stressing that Kyiv must have the final say over its future and that borders cannot be altered by force. The joint statement, issued earlier this week, comes amid concerns in Europe that Putin could persuade Trump to accept Russian territorial claims.

Zelenskyi has warned that Russia is not preparing for peace but for further offensives. Speaking on social media on Tuesday, he accused Moscow of moving forces for new attacks and said Ukraine would not cede the Donbas region. Trump has indicated that territorial concessions could be part of a settlement.

The Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin will take place at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base near Anchorage, a location chosen for security reasons and to avoid Putins arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant. The Kremlin rejected European venues and had proposed the United Arab Emirates as an alternative.

European officials see Wednesdays call as an opportunity to underline unity and maintain pressure on Russia through sanctions and military support to Ukraine. Merzs office has said the aim is to ensure Washington understands Europes resolve to continue backing Kyiv.

The Berlin meeting will precede a further session of the so-called coalition of the willing later in the day. The results of both discussions are expected to be announced in the evening.

HT
According to US media, museums will be required to submit the full programmes and catalogues of all exhibitions, digital copies of gallery labels, and plans for the next three years. The review will assess tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals across exhibitions, websites and social media.

The administration of US President Donald Trump is launching a review of exhibitions at the Smithsonian Institution to ensure they reflect what it calls American exceptionalism and avoid language it considers divisive or ideologically loaded.

In a letter to Smithsonian leadership, the White House said the goal is to eliminate divisive or biased narratives and restore trust in shared cultural institutions. If material is found to be problematic, museums will have 120 days to replace it with what the administration calls unifying, historically accurate, and constructive descriptions.

The review follows Trumps March directive, Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, which claimed the Smithsonian had promoted divisive, race-focused ideology and portrayed American and Western values as inherently harmful.

Historians have expressed concern about political pressure on an institution that traditionally operates independently. The New York Times reported that the first phase will cover eight of the Smithsonians 21 museums and one zoo.

While the president does not directly control the Smithsonian, about 62 percent of its annual budget comes from congressional appropriations, federal grants and contracts. Governance rests with a board of regents that includes the US vice president and the chief justice of the Supreme Court, but not the president.

HT
The Zeitoun and Sabra districts have been under sustained bombardment for three days. Residents said the destruction has prevented them from recovering bodies from under the rubble. Gazas civil defence service described massive destruction to civilian homes and warned that the death toll would rise as rescuers could not reach trapped survivors.

Israeli air strikes on Gaza City have killed at least 73 people since dawn, the Hamas-run health ministry said on Tuesday, as international pressure mounts over worsening hunger and blocked aid.

The ministry reported that 227 people have died from malnutrition since the war began, including a six-year-old boy and a 30-year-old man who died in the past 24 hours. It accused Israel of blocking the entry of more than 430 food items, including meat, fish, dairy and vegetables.

A joint statement by the UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan and 23 other countries said famine was unfolding in front of our eyes and called for immediate, permanent and concrete steps to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Germany and Hungary did not sign. The statement also urged an end to the use of lethal force near aid distribution points, where the UN says more than 1,300 Palestinians have been killed.

The World Health Organization said it could not stock hospitals ahead of a potential Israeli ground takeover of Gaza City. WHOs Rik Peeperkorn said aid flows remained far too low and warned of a catastrophic health situation.

Israels war cabinet voted on Monday to move ahead with the occupation of Gaza City as part of a phased plan to dismantle what it calls the remaining Hamas strongholds. The Israel Defense Forces said it was at the beginning of a new state of combat but gave no timetable for entering the city.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised increased aid delivery through safe corridors and air drops but denies that famine exists in Gaza. Israeli officials accuse UN agencies of failing to collect aid at the border.

The bombardment has drawn further condemnation over press freedom after targeted Israeli strikes killed six journalists in Gaza City on Sunday, including Al Jazeeras Anas al-Sharif. The IDF described al-Sharif as a Hamas operative and did not address the deaths of the other journalists. Media rights groups said Israel had provided no evidence for its claims and accused it of silencing reporting from Gaza.

Two UN-appointed experts on human rights and free expression called the killings a deliberate attempt to silence coverage and urged sanctions against Israel. The Foreign Press Association said Israels actions amounted to making journalists fair game and warned of growing restrictions on the flow of information.

The Elders, a group of former global leaders, described the situation as an unfolding genocide and held Israel responsible for famine in Gaza. Their statement followed similar conclusions from Israeli human rights group BTselem. Israel rejects the accusations, saying it targets militants and blames Hamas for civilian casualties.

The war began after Hamas killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages in its 7 October 2023 attack on Israel. Gazas health ministry says at least 61,599 Palestinians have been killed in Israels response, a figure the UN deems credible.

HT
Democrat announces campaign for state House

Lynne Russo

Lynne Russo on Wednesday launched her campaign for the North Carolina House of Representatives in District 117.

Related Stories

Touting a platform built around public-school funding, rural recovery, disaster relief and veteran support, Russo, a Democrat, promised leadership focused on action, not partisanship.

Theres too much talk in Raleigh and not enough doing, Russo said in a news release. Everywhere I goschools, farms, small businesses, union hallspeople tell me the same thing: Theyre tired of political games. They want Hurricane Helene funding, strong schools and real leadership that works for everyonenot just the well-connected.

Russos campaign slogan, 'Fighting for YOU,' reflects Russos commitment to tackling the real problems facing District 117 and North Carolinarather than catering to corporate donors, who she believes have bought and paid for the current GOP. The campaign also debuted its website, www.lynnerussofornc.com, where voters can learn more, donate, or sign up to volunteer.

Following Hurricane Helene, Russo mobilized supplies, secured media attention, and became a voice for survivors across the region. While the state has allocated nearly $2 billion toward recoveryfocused largely on rebuildingurgent needs remain unmet, especially when it comes to grants for small businesses in rural areas.

The truth is, without the federal aid we were promisedbut still havent receivedour regions recovery simply hasnt kept pace with the scale of the devastation, Russo said. Its time for focused, fast-moving leadership to deliver the support our people and local businesses need to fully rebuild and thrive.

Russo is challenging second-term incumbent Rep. Jennifer Balkcom.

Education is another key pillar of Russos campaign. North Carolina ranks 43rd in overall teacher pay and 39th in starting salary, leading to chronic turnover and persistent staffing shortages. Russo is committed to reversing that trend.

Were losing great teachers because we refuse to invest in them, she said. If we want thriving communities, we need to fully fund public schoolsnot siphon money off to private school vouchers.

She plans to fight for increased funding for public schools, and supports rebuilding and modernizing schools damaged by Hurricane Helene to ensure that students and teachers have safe, functional classrooms equipped for the future.

A longtime advocate and communications strategist, Russo has worked with national nonprofits such as the Education Trust, the Milken Family Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Her career has centered on amplifying the voices of overlooked communities, securing funding and advancing public policy that puts people first.






In our travels around the world, weve fallen in love with both Peru and train travel. So, when we saw the opportunity to combine these two loves with a ride on South Americas most luxurious train ride, we jumped at the chance.

The Andean Explorer travels higher than any other luxury train in the world. On its three-day journey from Arequipa to Cusco, we saw the best of Perus landscape, history, and culture while enjoying the opulence of what may now be our favorite train ride ever.

Heres everything you can expect from a journey on the Andean Explorer.

Lets Take a Train Tour!

Before we dive into the itinerary, heres a bit of the history behind the Andean Explorer because I found it fascinating.

This train was once part of The Great South Pacific Express, one of Australias most luxurious trains. In 2003, it was sold and shipped to Peru where it was redone by local artists. The coolest bit, in our opinion, is that the train was designed by the same people as the Singapore Airline first class suite (a.k.a. The best first class suite ever ). Without a doubt, this is one of the most modern, bright and airy trains weve ever stayed on.

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The Andean Explorer has three cabin options: bunk bed cabins, twin bed cabins, and suites. We opted to stay in the Suite, the trains nicest room.

The room is compact, but filled with everything we needed for the journey. The bed was small, but super soft and accompanied with alpaca fur blankets and slippers to keep us warm in the night at high elevation.

On each side of the bed is a nightstand with storage, two outlets, and an Andean Explorer-branded thermos for carrying warm drinks on excursions.

There are two large windows on one wall that provide panoramic views of the Andes Mountains. The rooms two love seats are the perfect place to sit and enjoy the view.

A drink station featuring an espresso machine and hot water kettle was the perfect little luxury, keeping us stocked with warm beverages at any hour of the day.

Two closets and under-the-bed cabinets meant there was plenty of space to store all of our luggage.

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The bathroom was stocked with tons of full-sized amenities, including SPF, shimmery bath foam, and lip balm that made the journey comfortable and luxurious!

On the rest of the train, there are two restaurants and two bar cars for enjoying meals and cocktails after dinner. There is also a spa cart which is a luxury you dont see on many trains, so we found it pretty exciting and Kara fit in a massage during our trip.

Our favorite part of the train was the open-air observation cart, where we could breathe in the crisp mountain air and get 180-degree views of the Andes.

A Journey Across the Andean Plains

Day 1: Arequipa to Puno

After boarding the train in Arequipa, we headed over to one of the restaurants for brunch. All meals are included on the journey, specially cooked by acclaimed chefs using only local ingredients. We indulged on baskets of warm, flaky bread, glasses of wine, and bowls of Peruvian potato soup as our train snaked through the Andes.

Throughout the meal, our ears were popping like no other because in just the first 2.5 hours of the journey, we climbed from 8,000 feet to 12,400 feet.

In the afternoon, the train stops at Sumbay Caves for an excursion. This archaeological site houses cave paintings that date back 8,000 years and tell the story of ancient Andean traditions. If youre feeling a little tired, you can opt to stay on the train and get a spa treatment or just enjoy the views, like we did.

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We watched the sun set from the observation deck before the train pulled over for some incredible stargazing. Let me tell you, the stars in the Andes Mountains are insane. In the midst of the darkness, far away from any large city, we could see the Milky Way and what felt like millions of stars.

To end the evening, the train stopped for the night so we could get some sleep without being woken up by every bump in the track  trust us, this is a big deal in the train travel world.

Day 2: Puno to Marangani

We woke up bright and early on day 2 to watch the sun rise over Lake Titicaca. Getting up this early on vacation is never fun, but the train staff made it as easy as possible by setting up fires and coffee stations along the shore.

The train has an impressively large breakfast menu, so we filled up on omelets, pastries, yogurt bowls, and more before leaving on our excursions for the day.

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It was a little disappointing to be leaving the train for the whole day, but after a couple of hours cruising around the worlds highest navigable lake, we forgot all about that.

Lake Titicaca is home to the Uros people, who live on groups of manmade floating islands in the middle of the lake. We stayed here with a local family a few years ago and to this day it is still one of our favorite trips, so being here brought back lots of great memories. After visiting one of the floating islands, we visited one of the lakes non-floating islands for a delicious lunch of champagne, roast potatoes, lake trout, and quinoa soup.

We took a little siesta on the beach, set against an incredible backdrop of terraced quinoa fields, before returning to the boat for card games and pre-dinner cocktails.

Somewhere in the evening, our train literally drove right through the heart of a city market. Seriously, the vendors had to duck out of the way to avoid getting hit. Even then, we could have reached out the train window and high-fived them.

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We enjoyed another dinner onboard with some new friends that we had met. The staff was sweet enough to make special desserts for our anniversary and a new friends birthday.

Day 3: Maragani to Cusco

On day 3, after breakfast, we went on an excursion to Raqchi, a unique Incan archaeological site. This ancient town is home to dozens of round stone storage buildings that the Incas used to store goods for trade. Most people only talk about Machu Picchu, so it was cool to see another example of what insane architects the Incas were.

Our final lunch on the train was super casual. We all spread out in the bar carts, saying goodbye to all our new friends and listening to live music in the background. Having ridden on trains in six out of seven continents, we feel qualified to say this was one of our favorite train rides ever.

Want to see our full journey on the Andean Explorer? Check out the YouTube video below!
A busy week for telecommunications news in Vietnam has seen yet another agreement between a state-owned Vietnamese business and a major Korean company, along with the launch of a terrestrial fibre optic cable directly connecting Vietnam to Singapore.

Vietnams state-owned ICT conglomerate Viettel Group and KT Corporation, a South Korean telecommunications company, mobile network operator and mobile virtual network operator, have announced what they call Strategic Partnership 2.0, signed before the recent Korea-Vietnam Business Forum.

This collaboration, the partners say, marks a significant step forward in joint efforts to establish national AI strategies and promote autonomous transformation (AX) across various industries.

Its not entirely clear what AX involves in this context, but one definition appears to be the shift from primarily human-driven or digitally driven processes to systems and processes that can operate and make decisions with a high degree of independence, often leveraging technologies like AI and automation.

In this case, building on an initial partnership formed in May, KT and Viettel will focus on four key areas: establishing a national AI strategy and developing industry-specific AX platforms; expanding AX projects across Southeast Asia; strengthening AI-based cybersecurity; and cultivating AX talent.

Part of this effort will be the co-development of a national general-purpose AI language model tailored to Vietnams language, culture and administrative environment, aiming to support digital sovereignty in education, public administration and public services.

Additionally, the partners plan to create so-called vertical AX platforms, delivering customised AI solutions to industry-specific needs.

To aid this effort, Viettel will share its global partner network to broaden collaboration throughout Southeast Asia, and both firms will work to expand technological cooperation with major tech companies and exchange information.

To foster AI talent, KT and Viettel also plan a Global AX Innovation Centre (G-AXC), which will develop AI language model expertise, industrial pilot specialists, and practical training and certification programmes to help Vietnamese citizens integrate AI into daily life.

The partners will also jointly research solutions to combat AI-driven phishing and deepfake crimes, sharing expertise and technologies to create a safer AX environment.

Another state-owned Vietnamese company, Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), was also in the news in recent days after it officially launched the countrys first terrestrial fibre optic cable directly connecting Vietnam to Singapore earlier this week.

The VSTN cable, stretching roughly 3,900 kilometres, runs entirely on land through Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. It links VNPTs technical hub in Da Nang to leading regional data centres in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

The VSTN line is claimed to be the first entirely land-based international cable system built and operated by a Vietnamese enterprise.

The new route uses advanced transmission technology and wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) equipment, enabling high-capacity, secure and rapid data transfer. It also gives VNPT complete operational control from origin to endpoint, allowing for faster recovery in case of disruptions.

VNPT currently operates four major international submarine cable systems and owns and operate two telecommunications satellites.
China Mobile (CM) was recently hailed for becoming a high-level autonomous network in only six years. The operators efforts were not wasteful and have showcased results that all operators, not just emerging market players, should strive for.

According to analyst house STL Partners, CM had achieved Level 4 autonomy resulting in a 50% increase to user download speed in congested areas and an 80% cut to network faults.

These are only a few metrics that operators aim for to cut costs and increase efficiency, says David Martin, Associate Senior Analyst at STL Partners. More efficient networks mean you release capacity, improve customer experience, cut out costs and free up resources for more innovation.

The desire for such boosts is more prevalent in developed markets where margins and revenues are shrinking and flattening. However, in emerging markets, operators still have a lot of ground to gain.

Martin says that does not mean developing market operators should take their eyes off developments in autonomous networks. Adopting the technology early can tackle constraints that developed counterparts are already facing in their journeys to automation, such as skills shortages and capex constraints - all against surging demand for connectivity in their nascent markets.

Understanding the levels

A fully autonomous telecoms network has yet to come to fruition. To use the TM Forums Autonomous Network initiative as a measure, operators can be ranked on a scale from Level 0 to Level 5.

Level 0 is a network with manually performed network operations with minimal to no automation. Meanwhile, Level 5 is a fully autonomous network that can manage and optimise itself without any human involvement.

Theres a temptation to focus on the big picture of Level 5, Martin says. But you should see it as something that helps you address real pain points in specific network domains now.

Lessons from China Mobile

China Mobile has made rapid progress to achieve Level 4 from Level 1 in mere six years. A Level 4 network shows self-optimising capabilities and can handle most operations autonomously, but there is human intervention if needed.

Martin says CM began with low-hanging fruit - clear pain points in certain regions or domains - and solved them not just in isolation but by addressing the underlying processes. This included using AI and machine learning to predict when a fault was likely to occur and automating the fix before it happened.

You start small, you get measurable results like saving money or improving Net Promoter Scores, and then you build from there, Martin says. Thats how you get the momentum to go from one domain to cross-domain, and eventually to holistic autonomy.

Opportunities and challenges for emerging markets

Kitesh Bhayani, Research Director at IDC, observes that awareness of the need for network automation is growing in emerging markets, with the Middle East and Africa in particular reporting relatively high adoption compared to some global peers.

He points to several common early applications, including network monitoring and anomaly detection to identify and address faults before customers are affected, predictive maintenance using historical and live data to anticipate issues such as weather-related damage, intelligent traffic routing to manage congestion during peak periods or major events, and automation in customer support and billing to cut costs and improve responsiveness in multiple languages.

However, he also highlights significant obstacles, from shortages of AI and automation expertise to the complexity of managing multi-vendor environments, entrenched legacy systems, and organisational inertia. Much of the older equipment in these markets is incompatible with modern APIs and often deployed in challenging locations, making upgrades expensive and the return on investment uncertain.

To address the skills gap, some operators are partnering with universities to develop tailored courses, while others outsource to major integrators such as TCS or Accenture. Yet Bhayani stresses that even with vendor support, automation is far from a plug-and-play process and requires adaptation to local contexts.

The vendor factor

For Wayne Lotter, Head of International Networks at Telstra International, simplifying the vendor landscape is essential for automation. If you have hundreds of variants of technologies, whenever you do an action you have to perform it in a model first and in a hundred others - thats hard for automation, he says.

Telstra works closely with strategic partners like Nokia and Ciena to keep its technology stack streamlined. In emerging markets this is crucial because you need to reduce complexity and make it easier to deploy automation reliably, Lotter explains.

Martin adds that CMs success was partly due to close collaboration with its major vendors, Huawei and ZTE, on integrating automation even in proprietary systems. That kind of cooperation can be harder in other developed markets, but its a template for how to make progress, he says.

Resilience in unpredictable environments

Lotter says that in Southeast Asia, automation and AI are vital for resilience. You not only have disruptive weather but rapid industrialisation, which can lead to building works accidentally cutting off telecom infrastructure, he says. By tapping into advanced network technologies, operators can make their networks more resilient. You can pre-empt and detect outages which can be really crucial in those markets. During an outage, traffic can be re-routed before literal disasters strike - ensuring its business as usual and customers are none the wiser.

He likens it to dark automotive factories in China - autonomous factories that are literally kept in the dark as robots on assembly lines construct cars - enabling vendors to cut costs and pass savings on to consumers.

The energy efficiency opportunity

Bhayani and Lotter agree that AI-driven energy management is another strong early target. In the RAN, AI can power down equipment during low usage and reactivate it when needed. Bhayani says even a 510% improvement in efficiency is significant when you consider how much of an operators cost base the RAN consumes.

Lotter notes that Telstra has deployed AI in parts of its network to fine-tune energy usage with great results and expects the benefits to grow as demand for data and cloud services increases.

Start small, scale fast

Martins advice for emerging market operators is clear: Dont think of it as investing in autonomous networks - think of it as investing in making your networks more automated and efficient. Its not a luxury. Its a necessity to reduce your cost base and increase your margins.

Bhayani reinforces the crawl, walk, run approach. Start with low-risk use cases and gradually increase the complexity. That allows for learning, adaptation, and upskilling of your workforce while showing tangible benefits to the business, he says.

Lotter adds that the aim is not to replace people but to augment their work. Autonomous networks arent about replacing people - theyre about enabling networks to respond faster, smarter, and more consistently than humans can alone. In markets where demand is surging and resources are limited, that can be the difference between leading and lagging.

As CMs experience shows, progress can be rapid. Six years ago it was at Level 1. Today it is close to Level 4 across much of its network. For emerging market operators willing to start small, prove value, and build capability, the leap to higher autonomy may come sooner than expected.
PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of PLDT, announced on Tuesday it has signed a deal to resell Starlinks LEO satellite broadband in the Philippines to businesses in underserved and hard-to-reach locations.

PLDT Enterprise said that by adding Starlink to its lineup, it can now offer a more robust suite of end-to-end connectivity solutions for a range of environments and operational demands, including managed SD-WAN, IoT, data centres and cybersecurity, among other things.

The company said Starlink will boost productivity, support operations and fuel growth for companies that have long struggled with limited connectivity or need a backup option of their existing service fails. PLDT Enterprise said it will especially target businesses such as logistics, banking, agriculture, disaster response, education and healthcare.

Since it can route traffic to other gateways found in other locations, it can keep businesses connected even during local terrestrial outages, said Nico Alcoseba, first VP and head of product management and global capacity strategy at PLDT Enterprise. This makes it especially valuable for customers whose uninterrupted internet connection is mission critical.

PLDT Enterprise is the second telco business to resell Starlink in the Philippines after Converge ICT Solutions subsidiary Converge Singapore signed a similar deal in March this year. Under that deal, Converge Singapore is offering Starlink-powered end-to-end turnkey solutions in the Philippines for sectors such as construction, mining, agriculture, retail and hospitality with operations in underserved areas.
Guangzhou-based Kaiwa Technology plans to release the worlds first pregnancy-simulating robot within a year at a price below 100,000 yuan (US$14,000), drawing both praise and criticism online.

Kaiwa Technologys founder and CEO, Zhang Qifeng, said it is designed as a humanoid with a womb capable of replicating conception through delivery, Hong Kong news outlet The Standard reported, citing Chinese media.

"The artificial womb technology is already in a mature stage, and now it needs to be implanted in the robot's abdomen so that a real person and the robot can interact to achieve pregnancy, allowing the fetus to grow inside," Zhang told Chinese science and technology outlet Kuai Ke Zhi, as quoted by Chosun Biz.

Unlike an incubator, the pregnancy robots womb would be filled with artificial amniotic fluid, with nutrients supplied to the fetus via a hose. Zhang, a PhD graduate from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, said the technology is aimed at young people who want children but wish to avoid biological pregnancy.

Humanoid robot cares for a baby. Illustration from X

"I initiated development to solve the population decline issue," he said in a video interview posted on Chinese social media platform Douyin on Aug. 8. "While commercial surrogacy is designated as illegal, I want to meet the demand of those who do not wish to marry but want to have children."

He said a prototype could be available within a year, priced under 100,000 yuan, and noted that Kaiwa has held forums with Guangdong Province authorities and submitted policy proposals regarding ethical and legal concerns.

Founded in 2015, Kaiwa Technology has previously developed service and reception robots.

News of the project pushed the hashtag "#Worlds First Pregnancy Robot to Launch Within a Year" to the top of Weibos search rankings, while Zhangs interview video on Douyin attracted nearly 4,000 comments.

Critics said the device was "cruel for a fetus to be born without connection to a mother" and that it "completely violates human ethics," while others questioned the biological source for creating babies. Supporters said it was good that women would no longer have to endure the physical burden of pregnancy. Some added they would purchase the device immediately if the price was affordable.

Others expressed hope it could help couples facing infertility. "I tried artificial insemination three times but failed all of them. Now I have a chance to have a baby," one person wrote.

Chinas infertility rate rose from 11.9% in 2007 to 18% in 2020, according to Chosun Biz. Cities including Beijing and Shanghai now cover artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization under medical insurance to support childbirth among infertile couples.

In 2022, researchers at the Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology in Jiangsu Province developed an AI "nanny robot" to monitor and care for embryos growing in artificial wombs. However, Chinese law prohibits developing human fetuses in artificial wombs beyond two weeks, The Independent reported.
The United States under President Donald Trump is committed to imposing consequences on those who destabilize the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, or DRC. Thats why the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, has sanctioned an armed group in Rwanda involved in illegal mining operations and taxation schemes in Rubaya, an expansive mining area rich in critical minerals used in modern electronics.

Additionally, these sanctions target companies in the DRC and China that are engaged in trading conflict-linked minerals from the DRC on international markets, often through Rwanda.



Eastern DRC has experienced thousands of civilian deaths and a mass displacement crisis due to ongoing instability, which has been exacerbated by the Rwanda-backed March 23 Movement, or M23. M23 is a U.S.- and United Nations-designated armed group that has rapidly expanded its territorial control in eastern DRC and is responsible for human rights abuses.



The conflict minerals trade is exacting a deadly toll on Congolese civilians, fueling corruption, and preventing law-abiding businesses from investing in the DRC, said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John Hurley. The Treasury Department will not hesitate to take action against groups that deny the United States and our allies access to the critical minerals vital for our national defense.



The United States is focused on securing a resolution to the conflict in eastern DRC, as evidenced by its success in facilitating the DRC-Rwanda peace agreement, signed in late June. The United States continues to support the efforts of the DRC and Rwanda to adopt a regional economic integration framework that expands trade and investment, enhances transparency in critical minerals supply chains, and paves the way for responsible and legal investment in the region.



Through the U.S.-mediated peace process, especially the Regional Economic Integration Framework, the United States supports the DRC and Rwanda in building a more peaceful and prosperous future. To that end, the U.S. will continue to take action to support a mining sector that contributes to lasting stability and economic development in the Great Lakes region and secure, reliable global critical minerals supply chains.



The Trump administration is sending a clear message that no armed group or commercial entity is immune from sanctions if they undermine peace, stability, or security in the DRC.
President Donald Trump is making good on his promise to hold Venezuelas dictator, Nicholas Maduro accountable for his crimes.

The Department of State and the Department of Justice have increased to $50 million the reward offered under the Narcotics Rewards Program for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Nicolas Maduro for violating U.S. narcotics laws.



For over a decade, Maduro has been a leader of Cartel de los Soles, which is responsible for trafficking drugs into the United States. On July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Cartel de Los Soles as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist.



Since 2020, Maduro has strangled democracy and grasped at power in Venezuela, said Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a press statement on August 7. Maduro claimed to have won Venezuelas July 28, 2024, presidential election but failed to present any evidence that he had prevailed. The United States has refused to recognize Maduro as the winner of 2024 election and does not recognize him as the President of Venezuela.



Significant human rights issues in Maduros Venezuela include credible reports of unlawful or arbitrary killings; enforced disappearance; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by security forces; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions and arbitrary arrest or detention by security forces.



There are serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom in Venezuela, including violence or threats of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests or prosecutions of journalists, censorship and substantial interference with the freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of association.



Venezuelans are denied the ability to change their government peacefully through free and fair elections.

In Maduros Venezuela there is serious government corruption and harassment of domestic and international human rights organizations.

Representatives of the Maduro regime have not taken credible steps or action to identify and punish officials who may have committed human rights abuses.



There have been reports of nonstate armed groups and criminal gangs engaged in violence, human trafficking, child recruitment, exploitation of Indigenous communities, and sexual abuse.



The U.S. reward offer is a key pillar of President Trumps America First priorities. Those who have information on Maduros criminal activities are urged to contact the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency by phone (voice, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, or text) at +1-202-681-8187, or by email. Or visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.



Attorney General Pam Bondi, in a video release, called Maduro "one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world and a threat to our national security."

"Under President Donald Trump's leadership, she said, Maduro will not escape justice, and he will be held accountable for his despicable crimes."
Fox News host Jesse Watters said President Donald Trump could annex part of Canada if Democrats keep pushing back against Republicans' redistricting initiative.

Speaking on "The Five," Watters said "Trump is not going to let this slide anymore." "If he needs to gerrymander, he is going to gerrymander, and if they want to add stars to the flag, okay, we will just take Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba."

Watters: If he needs to gerrymander, he is going to gerrymander, and if they want to add stars to the flag, okay, we will just take Alberto, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and it doesn't have to be aggressively. We can take it peacefully. It will be mostly peaceful invasion. And those pic.twitter.com/UPGSiJrxlh  Acyn (@Acyn) August 7, 2025

"And it doesn't have to be aggressively. We can take it peacefully. It will be mostly peaceful invasion. And those are three states -- that means six Republican senators. See what we did there?" Watters added.

Both parties are engaged in a fierce clash over redistricting and gerrymandering after Texas' Republicans called a special session to change congressional districts, a move that would give the GOP five more seats.

Governor Greg Abbott warned on Thursday that Democrats who left the state to block the push won't be able to return for years because he will keep the issue at the top of the agenda indefinitely.

Speaking to NBC News, Abbott said he will call "special session after special session," meaning that if Democrats maintain their strategy "they're not going to come back until like 2027 or 2028."

Democrats, in the meantime, are seeking for donations to face the costs associated with having left the state. State House Democratic leader Gene Wu said the party is "getting a lot of small-dollar donations," which are going to "help keep this going."

Among the costs are hotel bills for the dozens of lawmakers and daily fines for not attending the sessions. They are also facing the threat of being arrested, with Texas Republicans saying on Thursday that the FBI has agreed to help track down Democrats and help bring them back.

Watters had already made threats to Texas Democrats involved in the clash. Earlier this week he said they ould end up in El Salvador's mega prisons where Venezuelan migrants were sent earlier in the Trump administration.

"Democrats had until 3 to show and they didn't. So Gov. Abbott is sending out a posse to arrest them for dereliction of duty and drag them back to the Capitol. They told us no one is above the law. And if they resist, they'll wind up in El Salvador with the Maryland dad," Watters claimed.

Elsewhere, Democratic governors in California, New York and Illinois are threatening to conduct initiatives of their own to counter Texas. House Minority leader Hakeem Jeffries is also on board.

Originally published on Latin Times
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said his administration will redraw congressional districts after President Donald Trump missed his deadline to call on Republican governors to back off from such initiatives in red states.

In a social media post mocking Trump's communication style, Newsom's press office said California's new "beautiful maps" will be "historic as they will end the Trump presidency (Dems take back the House!)."

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!). BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

"Big press conference this week with powerful Dems and Gavin Newsom  your favorite governor  that will be devastating for MAGA. Thank you for your attention to this matter!  GN" the publication adds.

Newsom had urged Trump on Monday to direct Republicans to drop their push to redistrict congressional maps in Texas and elsewhere, warning that his administration can "offset the rigging of maps in red states."

In a letter published on social media, Newsom described the initiative as an "unprecedented, mid-decade hyper-partisan gerrymander to rig the upcoming midterm elections."

He added that Trump is "playing with fire, risking the destabilization of our democracy, while knowing that California can neutralize any gains you hope to make."

"This attempt to rig congressional maps to hold onto power before a single vote is cast in the 2026 election is an affront to American democracy. This is not what the founders envisioned, and California cannot stand idly by as this power grab unfolds. I do not do this lightly, as I believe legislative district maps should be drawn by independent, citizen-led efforts, as we have done in California for the last two decades," Newsom added.

In Texas, where the clash began, Democrats are claiming victory over their Republican counterparts. Concretely, ABC News detailed that lawmakers are planning on returning to the state if Republicans effectively adjourn the special session called to that end on Friday.

In a release published on Tuesday, Democrats said they "have killed this corrupt special session on behalf of Texas families, exactly what we said we'd do when we left the state."

However, a spokesperson later told the outlet that plans could change if the GOP changes its strategy over the next days.

"Members are still assessing their strategies going forward and are in a private meeting to make decisions about future plans currently," the official said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he will call a new special session "immediately," including the same topics from the first one and potentially others.

Originally published on Latin Times
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday said there was now a "viable" chance for a Ukraine ceasefire, ahead of talks between US President Donald Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin.

Starmer said Ukraine's military backers, the so-called Coalition of the Willing, had drawn up workable military plans in case of a ceasefire but were also ready to add pressure on Russia through sanctions.

"For three and a bit years this conflict has been going, we haven't got anywhere near... a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire," Starmer told a meeting of European leaders.

"Now we do have that chance, because of the work that the (US) president has put in," he told the video conference he led alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The call was joined by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky from Germany, and US Vice President JD Vance, who is currently visiting the UK.

While Starmer said Friday's Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin was "hugely important", he reiterated that there "should be no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine".

"This is a critical moment, we have to combine active diplomacy on the one hand with military support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia," he said.

The coalition has drawn up military plans "which are now ready in a form that can be used if we get to that ceasefire", Starmer added.

He said Britain and other European allies also "stand ready to increase pressure on Russia" through sanctions and "wider measures" if necessary.

He added that Trump had agreed to "debrief immediately" after his meeting with Putin.
Local law enforcement agencies along the U.S.-Mexico border are increasingly deploying artificial intelligence-powered drones to track drug traffickers and migrants, while Mexican cartels are flying their own drones into U.S. territory to monitor smuggling routes and law enforcement operations, as a new report by Axios has revealed.

The report focuses on the Cochise County Sheriff's Office in Arizona, which borders Mexico for 84 miles, and recently began a pilot program using Canadian-made Draganfly drones equipped with thermal imaging, GPS guidance, and AI systems for search-and-rescue, nighttime patrols, and detecting suspected cartel activity across 6,200 square miles.

Axios also points to Laredo, Texas, where police plan to deploy BRINC drones to monitor pursuits, assess potentially armed suspects, and deliver emergency medical supplies. In Sunland Park, New Mexico, drones are also being used to rescue stranded migrants and hikers and assist fire and police departments.

Draganfly CEO Cameron Chell told the outlet that the technology allows rural counties to "secure your border in a much more effective way than trying to rush a bunch of people around to spots where nobody's going to be anymore." Unlike consumer drones, law enforcement models can fly for hours, collect and analyze data, and recreate incidents quickly.

On the Mexican side, however, cartels have also invested in drone technology for surveillance and, in some cases, armed operations. A former operative for the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion recently told Infobae Mexico the group modified agricultural drones to drop explosives on rival factions, carry heavy payloads over 100 kilometers, and remain airborne for up to five hours.

Steven Willoughby, deputy director of DHS's counter-drone program, told a U.S. Senate committee last month that cartel drones made more than 27,000 flights within 500 meters of the southern border during the last six months of 2024. "It's just a matter of time until Americans or law enforcement agents are targeted," said Willoughby, adding that cartel drones have been linked to more than 1,500 arrests along the southwest border.

Some factions, such as La Mayiza of the Sinaloa Cartel, have reportedly acquired military-grade drone-jamming equipment, while others have used explosive-armed drones to displace communities. Civil liberties advocates in the U.S. have urged caution on police drone adoption until clearer regulations are in place.

Originally published on Latin Times
A humanoid robot is seen during the 2025 World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xin)

As China transitions toward high-quality, innovation-driven growth, companies like AUBO are positioning cobots not as job-takers, but as partners -- unlocking new potential for small businesses, skilled workers, and daily life.

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- With two taps on a screen, soft music plays, and a robotic arm begins to massage. "So comfortable," a guest smiles. "I could lie here all day."

This is no ordinary machine. Developed by Chinese firm AUBO (Beijing) Robotics Technology Co., Ltd, it's a collaborative robot, or cobot, capable of sensing, adapting, and responding to its surroundings. It represents a new frontier in automation: embodied intelligence -- machines that don't just think, but also feel.

"Welcome to the new face of Chinese manufacturing -- not man versus machine, but man with machine," says Tian Hua, senior manager of AUBO Marketing Department.

Once confined to factory floors, cobots are now spilling into healthcare and hospitality. As China transitions toward high-quality, innovation-driven growth, companies like AUBO are positioning cobots not as job-takers, but as partners -- unlocking new potential for small businesses, skilled workers, and daily life.

COLLABORATION, NOT DISPLACEMENT

For decades, automation was equated with job loss. But the rise of cobots suggests a new narrative: collaboration over competition.

As Tian points to a robot barista, a latte is expertly topped with a flourish of foam art. "It takes 90 seconds to recreate a master's pour," said Tian. "We've deployed these in libraries and Instagrammable spots in Beijing, and they've become instant crowd favorites."

It can consistently produce 300 cups of high-quality latte art coffee a day, the equivalent of a human barista working non-stop for 15 hours and still struggling to maintain the same level of quality.

"These robots aren't here to replace people," Tian added. "They support human staff by handling repetitive, physically demanding tasks, freeing them up for more valuable, human-focused work."

Visitors watch a robot working at a popcorn stand at the 2025 World AI Conference (WAIC) in east China's Shanghai, July 29, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China, the pressure is mounting. As labor shortages grow -- particularly with Gen Z steering clear of repetitive factory jobs -- automation has shifted from a luxury to a lifeline.

AUBO's cobots, built for easy setup and priced within reach, are helping to bridge that gap. Their best-selling palletizing model, for example, can stack up to nine boxes per minute -- doing the work of three to four human laborers.

Sales to small manufacturers now make up more than 40 percent of AUBO's domestic orders, and the share is growing. "We've sold over 35,000 units cumulatively, making us the first in China to surpass 30,000 units, ranking first nationwide and second globally, just behind Universal Robots," Song Zhongkang, director of the AUBO Research Institute, told Xinhua in an interview. "At our peak, annual profits doubled. Growth is now holding steady at around 30-50 percent."

But it's not just about efficiency. AUBO's cobots are helping SMEs -- the backbone of China's economy, responsible for over 60 percent of GDP and 80 percent of urban employment -- compete on a global stage, from textile workshops in east China's Zhejiang Province to electronics factories in south China's Guangdong Province.

"Beyond SMEs, we also supply top-quality products to leading players in the automotive, 3C, and home appliance sectors," Tian added.

BLUE COLLARS, NEW SKILLS

In a country still reliant on a vast blue-collar workforce, AUBO is also investing in education.

"Some tasks -- scorching welding, dust-choked painting, or grueling surgeries -- are too harsh for humans," Tian said. "Cobots don't replace workers; they enhance safety and dignity."

To bridge the skills gap, AUBO has rolled out over 1,000 training programs in Chinese technical colleges. Thousands of workers, many with no prior coding or automation experience, have transformed into skilled cobot operators, steering machines with a tap and gaining new purpose in an evolving economy.

AUBO's cobots -- lightweight, human-safe, and easy to master -- are transforming China's workforce. "No degree needed," said Tian. "Some of our top operators were once packers or cleaners."

A man receives therapy from a collaborative robot of Aubo (Beijing) Robotics Technology Co., Ltd. at Hannover Messe 2023 in Hannover, Germany, April 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

"I thought automation would take my job," said Liu Wei, a former assembly worker and now a certified technician. "Instead, it gave me a better one with more pay and more control."

By relieving workers from repetitive, high-intensity, and hazardous tasks like welding or heavy lifting, AUBO is cultivating a more adaptable, resilient, and future-ready labor force.

LOCAL ROOTS, GLOBAL AMBITIONS

AUBO's cobots embody a bold vision: technological independence.

Unlike many Chinese firms with foreign ties, AUBO is wholly homegrown, with 100 percent local R&D and manufacturing, driven by a team that includes 10 PhDs and 60 master's degree holders among its 500 global employees. Founder Wei Hongxing, once an aerospace researcher, started the company in a modest 10-person lab under China's "863 Program" for cutting-edge technology.

Now boasting over 270 patents, AUBO invests nearly 100 million yuan (13.8 million U.S. dollars) annually in research -- about one-sixth of its revenue. "Not a single foreign chip powers our core systems," Wei said. "True security and scalability come from building your own tools."

AUBO Robotics' unwavering commitment to full-stack independence -- from chips to algorithms -- has positioned it as a formidable rival to global robotics giants like ABB, KUKA, and Universal Robots. This year, AUBO achieved a 95 percent domestic production rate, a landmark in China's quest for technological self-reliance.

Visitors watch a dancing robot at the 2025 World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Yet its ambitions extend far beyond home.

With over 2,000 partners across 50 countries, the company exports to North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, and advanced markets like Japan, where robotics adoption is among the highest globally. Its products, certified by CE and NRTL standards, command higher profit margins abroad.

Overseas markets are experiencing increasing demand. By 2030, the global cobot market is projected to reach 11.6 billion dollars, with Chinese firms, led by AUBO, targeting a 30 percent share, according to the Grand View Research report.

"Overseas clients value our adaptability," Tian said. "Our cobots can switch formations and handle diverse orders, deploying in under two hours without needing a full technical crew."

Looking forward, AUBO is investing in cloud-connected cobots, AI-powered adaptive controls, and remote surgical robotics. As machines grow smarter, the scope of human collaboration is expanding.

Whether on a factory floor or in a cafe, AUBO's vision endures: Humans no longer toil like machines -- because machines now work alongside them.

Editor: ZAD
A woman visits the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A child selects goods at a cultural and creative product shop at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A girl looks at exhibits at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Artists perfom an Egyptian-style dance at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

People visit the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Visitors take part in an interactive game at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua)

The new book titled "Pyramids in China" is released during a launch ceremony at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

People visit the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua)

A visitor poses for Egyptian-style photos at a cultural and creative product shop at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Editor: Xiong Jian
Economic Virology

By Oleksandr Kramarenko, economic observer

The biggest mistake of our sincere partnersand even alliesis that they think of Russia as just another country, a country as usual. But it is anything but. In fact, the Russian economy resembles a virus. Not only does it mask itself and parasitize developed economies, it also distorts everything it comes into contact with. And no, it is not doing this out of some abstract love for the dark artsit is all part of waging hybrid warfare.

When we look at todays Russia, lets be honest: we are looking at a totalitarian regime that fully controls its banks, companies, and organizationsmany of which may appear non-governmental, but in reality, only the signs on the doors are still private.

This misconception is costing the world dearly. These illusions prevent us from seeing Russian banks, businesses, NGOs, and even citizens for what they truly aretools of the Kremlin. Every last one of them. These illusions prevent us from recognizing all (and yes, I do mean all) Russian banks as active participants in financing and servicing state terrorismthe official policy of the Russian Federation. These illusions hinder the complete restriction of Russian access to modern technologies, equipment, and materials.

Want to mention that the EU has recently criminalized the circumvention of anti-Russian sanctions? Lets wait and see if they actually prosecute the executives of the countless European companies that are shipping high-tech equipment, components, and materials to Russiadirectly or via creative intermediaries.

The Russian virus still spreads

Let us give some credit: Russian strategists have done a spectacular job. The twenty-year-old doctrine of General Gerasimovthis whole hybrid warfare ideahas been upgraded and expanded brilliantly.

Need examples? Look no further than Nord Stream 1 and 2. These projects are case studies in how to do it: mission, methods, and consequencesall textbook perfect. It is essentially COVID-19 attacking a body with a weak immune system.

In the case of Nord Stream, you can trace every stage clearly:

1. Infiltration  Setting up joint ventures or buying local firms;

2. Attacking the immune system  Corrupting politicians at all levels, NGOs, and political parties;

3. Reprogramming host cells to replicate the virus  Undermining political institutions, regulators, and market sectors;

4. Secondary spread  Laundering the profits, seizing more assets, creating purely local companies;

5. Infecting new hosts  Infiltrating political, state, municipal, and civil institutions;

6. Pandemic  Return to step (1), just on a much larger scale. Congratsyour countrys political and economic systems have been hacked.

And this would have continued, quietly and profitably, under the soothing rustle of Russian cash in the pockets of corrupt European officials. But then came the war. And suddenly, all those shady deals were dragged out into daylight.

Sowhat are developed nations actually doing about it? Systematically? Honestlyalmost nothing. This is evident from the fact that, even four years into the war, European money continues to flow into Russia like a well-fed river.

Why tolerate the problem?

Is it step (2) thats to blame? The Merkel-Schroder case did not exactly vanish into thin air.

Or is it the lure of superprofits? Take Raiffeisen Bank International, which absolutely refuses to leave Russia because its Russian subsidiary is making a killing from servicing foreign trade. (Translation: financing the war.)

Maybe it is about the useful idiotsthose who believe that sponsors of terrorism should be treated like any other business from a developed country? Not ruling it out. Though in fairness, decision-makers rarely qualify as actual idiots.

Let us recall the tale of the frozen Russian state assets.

This story followed the classic five stages:

* Denial  Flat-out refusal to even discuss the issue (2022);

* Anger  Heated debates about using those assets, with doomsday warnings about the collapse of the global financial system (2023);

* Bargaining  Tentative approval to use the interest generated by those frozen assets (Spring-Summer 2024);

* Depression  Finally starting to consider using the actual assets (August 2025here we are).

So clearly, nothing is impossible. But when will the same logic apply to the supposedly private Russian economy? Hopefully, if we stop sitting on our hands and start pushing our partners and allies hard enough, we can get there. Russias economy needs to be recognized for what it is: totalitarian and entirely geared toward waging aggressive war.

When will we activate the immune response to the Russian economic virus?

Want a macroeconomic argument? Various estimates suggest that military spending already accounts for almost 20% of Russias GDP. That means the Russian economy is thoroughly militarized. If a Russian company is not directly supplying goods and services to the war effort, it is supplying someone who does.

Want a legal argument? Back in July 2022, the Russian State Duma passed a law (No. 272-FZ dated 14.07.2022) requiring all Russian companies to provide goods and services to the military. Lawmakers justified it by citing increased demand due to the war in Ukraine and dwindling supplies due to sanctions. Legal entities, regardless of legal structure or ownership, cannot refuse these contracts. Oh, and the Ministry of Defense can change the terms of the contract after signing. If that is not a totalitarian economy, what is?

Want a purely practical argument? Just last month, Ukrainian hackers breached the information systems of the supposedly civilian airline Aeroflot. Surprise: the airline is actively engaged in military transport. A civilian airline running military logistics. Scratch the surface of any Russian company and you will find the grimy camouflage of Russian field uniforms underneath.

So what do we do?

Push the ideahardthat the Russian economy is not just militarized; it is totally and totalitarianly militarized. Any cooperation with anything Russian should be considered toxic, dangerous, andmost importantly unprofitable.

Yes, unprofitablethat is the keyword.

Because history shows: even European businesses, all of which are in the crosshairs of Russian aggression, will cling to their Russian partnerships until the bitter end. And then some.
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Hotel Eastern Nepal Pvt Ltd for the development of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dhulabari in South-Eastern Nepal. Set to open in 2026, the latest development reinforces IHG's commitment to growing its portfolio in high-potential markets across South West Asia. The signing marks the second partnership between IHG and Hotel Eastern Nepal Pvt Ltd, following the successful launch of Holiday Inn Resort Kathmandu Budhanilkantha.

As IHG's largest and fastest-growing hotel brand with more than 3,200 hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn Express is designed to deliver a smart, simple, and engaging stay. Focused on the needs of today's travellers, the brand offers streamlined services, modern design, comfortable and flexible spaces for every stage of the guests' journey. With the rollout of its Generation 5 concept, Holiday Inn Express continues to lead the way in value-driven, modern and experiential hospitality.

Located in Dhulabari, a key town in the Jhapa District in the south-east of Nepal, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dhulabari will feature 99 well-appointed rooms and suites, an all-day dining outlet, including a dinning option on the roof top of the hotel, a banquet hall, a fitness centre, and ample parking. The hotel will be located in a prime location, offering unparalleled convenience for travelers. Situated near the Nepal-India border at Kakarvitta and just a short distance from Chandragadi Domestic Airport, the hotel will offer seamless access for both domestic and international visitors. For those seeking spiritual exploration, the Pathibhara Devi Templeone of Eastern Nepal's most sacred pilgrimage siteswill only a scenic 15 km drive.

Catering to a wide spectrum of demand, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dhulabari will serve business travellers, tourists, and local guests alike, particularly from the region's expanding commercial and agricultural sectors. With limited branded hotel supply in the vicinity, the hotel is also poised to become a preferred venue for MICE and social events, offering modern facilities and seamless service.

IHG currently has 51 hotels operating across six brands in India, including Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza, voco Hotels, Holiday Inn Resort and Holiday Inn Express, and a strong pipeline of 72 hotels due to open in the next 3-5 years.

Hotel website
IHCL PORTFOLIO REACHES 550+ HOTELS AND ~ 55,000 ROOMS

DOUBLES ITS MID SCALE PRESENCE TO 240+ HOTELS

EXPANDS BRANDSCAPE WITH BRIJ HOTELS IN THE BOUTIQUE LEISURE SEGMENT

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), Indias largest hospitality company, today entered into a strategic partnership, signing definitive agreements to acquirecontrolling stakein ANK Hotels Pvt Ltd and Pride Hospitality Pvt Ltd and signed a distribution agreement with Brij Hospitality Pvt Ltd. With many decades of hospitality experience, the promoters of these companies belong to the illustrious Clarks hotels family. This takes IHCLs portfolio to over 550 hotels.

Indias hospitality sector has witnessed sustained demand momentum over last three consecutive fiscal years, reflective of the countrys growing economic prominence and rising discretionary spends. The outlook for the sector remains buoyant as demand outpaces supply and India continues to be an under-served hospitality market especially in the mid-market segment. Our partnership with ANK, Pride and Brij Hospitality is a multi-pronged approach addressing Indias heterogenous market landscape and is in line with IHCLs five-year road map Accelerate 2030 of unlocking Indias tourism potential. Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL

He added, Furthering IHCLs leading presence in the midscale segment with the successful transformation of Ginger, this partnership doubles our portfolio with 240+ hotels addressing the growing needs of the aspirational traveller. Expanding our brandscape, the strong brand equity of Brij hotels in Indias cultural and historical centres extends our offering in the experiential boutique luxury segment. With their rich legacy and hospitality expertise, the key managerial personnel of ANK, Pride and Brij Hospitality will continue to oversee the running of the respective companies, thereby providing business continuity and also enabling future growth of the companies.

ANK Hotels Pvt Ltd and Pride Hospitality Pvt Ltd have a portfolio of 135 hotels in the midscale segment spread across 110 locations and are presently operated under The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, which over the next few months will be integrated operationally and migrated to IHCLs brandscape predominantly under the Ginger brand among others. These hotels are a on a capital light arrangement of management contracts and select operating leases. Brij Hospitality has a portfolio of 19 hotels in the experiential leisure segment in Indias unique destinations.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj  the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and ranked as World's Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India's Strongest Brand 2024 as per Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Tree of Life, private escapes in tranquil settings; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; Gateway, full-service hotels designed to be your gateway to exceptional destinations and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 360 hotels including 123 under development globally across 4 continents, 13 countries and in over 150+ locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India's largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is listed on the BSE and NSE.

Please visit: IHCL; Taj; SeleQtions; Tree of Life; Vivanta; Gateway; Ginger
The hospitality search experience has undergone a quiet revolution. Where travelers once Googled their way to vacation options, many now turn to AI assistants like ChatGPT, Copilot, and other agentic tools to dream, plan, and book. With tools like Googles Search Generative Experience (SGE), users receive detailed answers, trip summaries, and personalized insights based on conversational prompts.

For hotel owners and operators, this means its time to reevaluate how and where you meet your guests online.

What is Agentic Search?

Agentic search, a term growing in popularity, refers to AI-driven tools that go beyond delivering links. They literally act on behalf of the user. Instead of presenting a list of search results, they synthesize answers and take action, like booking a room, building itineraries, or comparing hotels in real time.

For example:

A traveler might ask ChatGPT, Whats the best dog-friendly boutique hotel in Bend, Oregon under $250 a night? and get a curated answer without visiting your website at all.

Microsoft Copilot might generate a list of properties based on user preferences and booking history.

Expedias integration with ChatGPT already allows users to get travel recommendations and click through to book directly.

On the search engine side, generative AI is transforming hotel marketing and forcing properties to reposition themselves online. For example, a search google like, Plan a 3-day trip to Santa Fe with boutique hotel options and outdoor activities no longer returns just a list of links. Instead, it might yield a structured itinerary, recommended hotels, hike suggestions, and local restaurant options, all generated dynamically.

Why Does This Matter for Hotels?

Clearly, these tools are rapidly changing the guest journey and reshaping hotel digital marketing. Instead of funneling through traditional search engines or OTAs, more travelers rely on conversational AI for trip planning, especially as Gen Z and Millennials adopt conversational AI. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? Its up to interpretation. There are numerous pros and cons when it comes to generative search and direct bookings.

What does that mean for hotel marketers?

If your content isnt optimized for AI, you risk becoming invisible.

If your booking process isnt seamless, youll lose out to more frictionless competitors.

If youre not using chatbots, youre missing out on lead capture and guest service efficiencies.

How Hotels Can Embrace the AI Shift

1. Optimize for AI-Driven Search

Modern AI assistants pull from sources like Google, Bing, Yelp, Tripadvisor, and even your websites schema. Make sure your property is accurately listed and reviewed on key platforms, and you use structured data (schema markup) on your website. You should also ensure your web content answers common guest questions (pet policies, proximity to attractions, unique amenities).

2. Deploy AI-Powered Chatbots

Modern hotel chatbots can do much more than answer FAQs. They can also perform tasks like qualifying leads and directing them to book or handle real-time guest requests (room upgrades, late checkout, etc). Many chatbots can integrate with your PMS or CRM systems to provide personalized responses to enhance guest experiences, too.

3. Create AI-Friendly Content

AI tools tend to favor clear, conversational, and factual content. Local expertise, helpful recommendations, and unique selling points (e.g., eco-certified, art-forward, hyper-local partnerships) are also good to have. This is your chance to tell your story, and let AI tell it for you.

4. Enable Seamless Booking Paths

AI chatbots and agentic search tools prioritize fast answers and action. A clunky booking engine or lack of mobile responsiveness can cost you the conversion. Audit your booking funnel regularly and test it across platforms.

Bonus: Use AI on the Backend, Too

Dont just respond to AI trends, use them! Train your own AI tools to spot guest trends, create segmented email campaigns, and improve forecasting. The same technologies shaping the search experience can also drive revenue and streamline operations. By analyzing patterns of customer information, hoteliers can also leverage AI to gain broad insights into their customers likes and dislikes. This helps better assess the performance of business initiatives.

Wrapping Up

AI chatbots and agentic search are redefining how guests discover and interact with your hotel. By leaning into this shift now, hotel operators can meet guests where they are, improve conversions, and build stronger relationships long before check-in.

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TikTok Partners with Booking.com to Book Hotels Directly Through the App - Image Credit Unsplash

TikTok has introduced a new feature that allows users to book hotel accommodations directly through its app. This development is part of a collaboration with Booking.com. The integration enables TikTok users to input check-in and check-out dates and book available rooms at specific hotels. Each hotel featured on the app has a dedicated landing page providing detailed information, including prices, amenities, reviews, and related TikTok videos about the property. Users can also tag these hotels in their videos, enhancing the visibility and engagement of the properties.

TikTok Go: Creator Monetization Program

In addition to hotel bookings, TikTok has launched a creator monetization program in the United States called TikTok Go. This initiative allows local merchants, including hotels, to pay creators a commission or offer vouchers for promoting their business. To qualify for TikTok Go, influencers must have at least 1,000 followers, be at least 18 years old, and maintain an account in good standing. Creators participating in the program can set their location and view a list of tasks from hotels or other venues like restaurants. By completing tasks such as posting a video, creators can earn commissions if they drive sales.

Expansion of E-commerce Activities

The introduction of hotel bookings on TikTok is part of the company's broader strategy to enhance e-commerce activities within its app. TikTok has heavily invested in its shopping tool, TikTok Shop, and has developed various Yelp-style products for local businesses. The platform relies on influencers to promote products in videos, offering them a commission on sales. This approach is expected to open new revenue streams for travel influencers.

Impact on Travel Influencers

The TikTok Go program could significantly impact travel influencers by providing them with new opportunities to earn commissions. Travel creator Amanda Dishman, who runs a family blog called Salty Vagabonds, expressed enthusiasm about the program. She noted that the barrier to earning commissions has been significantly reduced, making it more accessible to a broader range of creators. As TikTok continues to gain popularity as a search tool among Gen Z users, the company has also introduced a "Places" tab for discovering new destinations and activities. Users can leave reviews and earn badges for being a "local explorer."

TikTok's move into hotel bookings follows its earlier initiatives to facilitate bookings for concert and movie tickets through partnerships with providers like Ticketmaster and Fandango.

Discover more at Business Insider.
Local SEO for Hotels: Expanding Beyond Google - Image Credit TravelBoom Marketing

Did you know that between 50% and 60% of travelers use alternative search platforms other than Google to find hotels? While Google is the dominant player in local search, focusing solely on Google can limit your hotels online visibility. Alternative search engines, mapping services such as Apple Maps and Bing, and travel directories including Yelp and TripAdvisor can play a crucial role in improved reach and increased bookings. See how to get started with local SEO alternatives to take advantage of these and other benefits.

Why Hotels Need To Go Beyond Google for Local SEO

DuckDuckGo, Yahoo and niche travel search engines provide alternative channels for travelers to find hotels outside of Google. DuckDuckGo is particularly important for privacy-conscious users, while Yahoo still maintains a loyal user base. Niche travel search engines such as Kayak, Tripadvisor, Priceline and Hotels.com cater specifically to travelers looking for accommodations, making them valuable platforms for hotels to optimize their listings.

TripAdvisor, Yelp and other third-party directories are important for hotel visibility and reputation management, as many travelers rely on these review sites when making booking decisions. To significantly improve their online presence and credibility, hotels should optimize their profiles on these sites with accurate information, encourage satisfied guests to leave feedback, and respond to positive and negative reviews.

Apple Maps has a large user base: It is the default navigation tool for iOS users, and there are more than 1.5 billion active iOS devices worldwide. It makes sense that hotels with optimized Apple Maps listings are more likely to attract bookings from iPhone users searching nearby accommodations.

Additionally, Bing holds approximately 6% to 9% of the U.S. search market, and voice search is exploding, with more than 50 percent of searches now voice-based.

Expanding local SEO for hotels to include these Google alternatives provides many benefits, including:

Diversification of Traffic: Relying on multiple platforms reduces dependency on Google and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).

Relying on multiple platforms reduces dependency on Google and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs). Competitive Advantage: Smaller or newer hotels can compete more effectively by optimizing for Bing, Apple Maps and travel directories, where competition may be lower than on Google.

Smaller or newer hotels can compete more effectively by optimizing for Bing, Apple Maps and travel directories, where competition may be lower than on Google. Reliance on Paid Results: Googles increasing focus on paid ads has made organic ranking more difficult, so diversification is crucial.

Googles increasing focus on paid ads has made organic ranking more difficult, so diversification is crucial. User Preferences: Some travelers prefer non-Google search engines or privacy-focused options like DuckDuckGo.

Some travelers prefer non-Google search engines or privacy-focused options like DuckDuckGo. Voice Search Growth: Siri, Cortana and Alexa pull data from various sources, impacting search visibility.

Hotels that diversify their local SEO efforts across multiple search engines and directories will future-proof their online visibility and drive more direct bookings, says Alyssa Foriska, Director of SEO.

Optimizing Hotel Listings on Apple Maps

Apple Maps is popular among iPhone users and integrates with Siri-based voice searches. These profiles are populated by information gathered from map data providers, crowdsourcing, user-generated content, and travel services such as Yelp, TripAdvisor and third-party booking systemsbut that information can be incorrect or incomplete. By directly managing your Apple Business Connect Profile (formerly Apple Maps Connect), you ensure that Apple Maps has accurate and complete information, which increases the chances of your hotel appearing in relevant search results and reaching more Apple users.

How To Claim and Optimize Apple Maps Listings

The process to claim and manage your Apple Business Connect Profile and Apple Maps listing is straightforward.

Set Up Your Apple ID: If you dont already have an Apple ID associated with your hotel, access the Apple Business Connect self-service website to create an Apple Account. This account will work across relevant Apple services. Verify Your Business: Sign into Apple Business Connect to confirm your account. Claim Your Business Location: Once verified, find and claim your hotel location and begin personalizing your listing. Ensure your listing includes accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) as well as website, social media links and location details. Upload high-quality photos to showcase your hotels amenities and rooms. The right images can increase user engagement. Choose the correct category to ensure your hotel appears in relevant search results. Encourage guests to review your location on Apple Maps. Positive reviews can influence rankings and attract new customers.

Your Apple Place Card appears across the Apple ecosystem, such as in Maps, Siri, Calendar and Messages. While Apple does not currently support direct bookings through Apple Maps, it integrates with third-party reservation systems like OpenTable and Expedia. Keeping your listing current with location details, recent photos and special offers can increase engagement and drive more direct inquiries.

Managing Hotel Listings on Bing Places

There are an estimated 100 million daily active users on Bing, the default search engine on Microsoft devices. Bing Travel Instant Answers appear directly within search results, helping users find the information they need to make a booking decision, and Microsoft Bing Travel offers flight, hotel-booking and trip-planning tools for destinations worldwide. Bing also integrates with AI-powered search tools and Microsoft Edge, the second-largest web browser. By optimizing your Bing Places listing, you can tap into Microsofts ecosystem, which powers search results for platforms like Windows devices, Cortana and some third-party search engines.

How To Claim and Optimize Bing Places

Claim Your Listing: Access your property via Bing Places for Business to claim an existing listing  most businesses already have one  or add a new listing if your location is not included. Verify Your Business: Request a PIN via email, phone or snail mail to verify your listing to prevent unauthorized changes. Add Correct Business Details: Ensure your listing includes all relevant details, such as contact information, address, website, description and photos.

How To Optimize Hotels for Voice Queries and Near Me Searches

Optimizing your hotel listing for voice search by including conversational keywords and near me phrases can provide better discovery through AI-driven search via Cortana and Siri.

Get your listings spruced up for voice search with these tips:

Ensure your website is mobile-friendly. Voice searches are most often completed on mobile devices, so ensuring mobile-friendliness while auditing your website is imperative.

Voice searches are most often completed on mobile devices, so ensuring mobile-friendliness while auditing your website is imperative. Use conversational keywords. Searchers are likely to use phrases like hotel near me with free breakfast, or luxury hotel with an indoor pool. Include more conversational keyword phrases in optimized content and informational pages to answer those voice queries and support discoverability.

Searchers are likely to use phrases like hotel near me with free breakfast, or luxury hotel with an indoor pool. Include more conversational keyword phrases in optimized content and informational pages to answer those voice queries and support discoverability. Use a Q&A format. Implementing FAQ schema markup can increase the chances of your hotel appearing in featured snippets, which are often used for voice search results.

Implementing FAQ schema markup can increase the chances of your hotel appearing in featured snippets, which are often used for voice search results. Leverage local intent. Featuring location-specific content, area FAQs and relevant local news helps optimize your website to meet the needs of potential guests.

Featuring location-specific content, area FAQs and relevant local news helps optimize your website to meet the needs of potential guests. Encourage reviewers to mention the location. When reviews mention a location by name, it can support local SEO for hotels.

When reviews mention a location by name, it can support local SEO for hotels. Dont overlook Google, though. Siri, Cortana and Alexa pull data from multiple sources, but Google Assistant relies on Google My Business, so hotels still need to optimize their Google My Business listings.

Local Search Ranking Factors (Beyond Google)

Keeping hotel details current across each platform  including Google My Business, Bing Places, Apple Maps and Yelp  is imperative. But dont overlook other key factors that impact local search rankings.

Reviews and ratings play a critical role in local search visibility, so keep online reputation management top of mind.

Listing your business information consistently across directories like Yelp, Apple Maps, Bing Places and travel-specific sites reduces searchers potential for confusion from encountering varied listings. It also signals to Google that your hotel is trustworthy.

Blog posts, social media updates, event announcements and other content relevant to your hotels location should play a role in your local SEO strategy.

Once visitors find your Bing or Apple listing, ensure a terrific user experience: Click-through rates, active time on the website, and website events such as page views and making reservations are clear engagement signals that help support your ranking.

How Structured Data Helps Enhance Search Rankings on Alternative Platforms

Structured data markup such as schema.org helps search engines understand and display hotel information more effectively, making listings more attractive and informative for potential guests. Implementing schema markup (such as Hotel, PriceRange, StarRating and Review structured data) can boost visibility on Google, Bing and Apple Maps, leading to richer search results and increased engagement.

Ready to expand your hotels marketing strategy beyond Google? A well-optimized presence on Bing, Apple Maps and other platforms can drive more direct bookings, improve your search visibility and give you a competitive advantage. Contact TravelBoom for expert content solutions to help you get started optimizing your listings and standing out in local search!

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Lenox Community Center Presents Movies Under the Stars

LENOX, Mass.  The Lenox Community Center will present a night of music and movie fun with a free outdoor screening of "Encanto: The Sing-Along Edition" on the back lawn at 65 Walker Street.

The showing will take place Friday Aug. 19, at 7:30 pm. The Field and Snack Shack open at 7 pm. All proceeds will benefit the Lenox Community Center Camp Scholarship Fund.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair.
Four Possible Candidates for Adams Administrator

ADAMS, Mass.  The consultant hired to find potential candidates for the town administrator post said the search has been slow.

Search consultant Richard White of Groux-White Consulting LLC of Lexington told the board during a recorded meeting last week that it's been a slow process since the job was advertised on July 18.

"There's Eastern Standard Time, and there's Berkshire summertime, and their responses have been slow but steady," he said, speaking over Zoom. "I think within two weeks, I'm going to be able to present you with four candidates that I could stand behind, and I believe that are capable of doing the job."

White said he's still making some contacts and one of the four has not yet committed but he anticipated that would happen within a few days.

"Two of them have local ties, have what I call periphery or accessory experience of local government ... I think their affinity and understanding of Adams, its culture, its people, its politics, may be a good option for you," he said. "The two other candidates I have are more traditional. They have municipal experience. ...

"In total, I think it will present the board with a good menu of options for it to consider."

White said he contacted every manager in the Western Mass community and the 27 border communities in Vermont and New York State, and sent out 400 invitations and brochures.

I can't say that it was successful, but you know, I've made a lot of contacts. I've got a lot of feedback," he said. "It's helped me understand the community and some of its challenges and how candidates might see it, and I think it's helped me develop, you know, some decent candidates for you to consider."

The town is seeking to replace Jay Green, who left to take the town manager post in Lenox earlier this year. White thought Green may have shared a less-than-enthusiastic experience with his peers; he was careful to say he was not making any accusations, just something he had inferred from conversations.

"Apparently, Adams has a little bit of a reputation of some difficulties that have gotten in the way of governance, but they're not insurmountable," he said. "It's required that I do a lot of work undoing it and explaining the opportunities that exist here.

"Seasoned, experienced administrators, managers want an environment where there's a diversity of opinion on the board, but a history of the board working well together, and that has been a challenge for me to get over a little bit."

Along with Green's departure, the town lost the community development director, the community development program director and the finance director. Chair John Duval had pointed to a barrage of public beratement of the officials as the reason for the exodus.

White said he'd had as many as 11 candidates but two withdrew "after talking to people in Adams." They wouldn't tell him who they spoke with.

"I believe that people that serve on the Board of Selectmen have voices, and they should be able to pass on their voice any way they want," said Selectman Joseph Nowak. "I felt, as you were talking about the board, that it's a board that is kind of like cantankerous, or that things don't run smooth, but that's what government is all about, for people to go back and forth with their ideas whether other people on the board don't like them. That's New England. That's the birthplace of democracy."

Nowak said he wasn't a "cliquey" board person and asked if his colleagues had indicated he was the one that wouldn't conform. White said he was being generic and that "not one of them have shared a negative word about you or said anything untoward about you."

He was just sharing data on perceptions he was getting, not commenting on whether those perceptions were real or not.

"I spent a lot of time talking about the opportunity, but you know, I'm also sharing with you potential candidates perspectives of the dynamics that exist here," White said.

The question came up of a screening committee. White said he was unaware there plans for a committee but would be willing to work with one. Duval asked the board would want to dispense with a committee as the interim town administrator would be leaving in days and it could take six to eight weeks to bring on the new administrator.

Nowak said he was disappointed in Duval not moving forward on the screening committee after asking board members to submit two candidates months ago. Selectwoman Christine Hoyt said she was in favor of a screening committee if there are four or five candidates since the first interview would be done publicly.

Great Barrington's gone out twice for a town manager, rejecting two finalists in the first round and then having their only choice in the second round turn the job down, noted Nowak. White said he fully vets the candidates and assured him the four he will present are "see value and opportunity in in Adams."

They were going to be someone who's had some success in an alternative career or someone young and ambitious in municipal work," he said. "Quite frankly, ... all four the candidates that I think would rise to the top, whether through the screening committee or directly to me to you ... That's the profile."

The board will take up the potential for a screening committee at its meeting on Wednesday.

In other business, the board:

 Named Daniel Doyle as executive director of the Greylock Glen Outdoor Center at a Grade 15, Step 7 salary of $94,556.

 Appointed Lisa Mendel and Linda Cernik to one-year terms on the Board of Health with the approval of the board's only member Kathy "Skippy" Hynes, who said, "I think they're they have a high ethical standard, they have integrity, they're honest, they they're loyal, and I think they have a lot of diversity that they can share." The seats will be up for election next May.

 Named Selectman Jay Meczywor to represent Adams at the North Region caucus to vote for a member and alternate to the Metropolitan Planning Organization. The MPO, which operates through Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and the state Department of Transportation, priorities highway and transportation projects for Berkshire County. It consists of representatives from four subregions and the two cities. The caucus will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 5:30 p.m. at North Adams City Hall. The North Region consists of Adams, Clarksburg, Florida, New Ashford, Savoy and Williamstown.

 Approved of fiscal 2026 intergovernmental agreement with BRPC for economic development services at a cost of $10,000.

 Appointed election workers for the next year, authorized the police chief to assign officers for the annual town election and tabled an executive session until next meeting because the agenda item was missing information.
Select Board meetings are moving back to the more accessible Senior Center.

Dalton Select Board Back at Senior Center

DALTON, Mass.  The Select Board meetings are back at the Senior Center.

Residents raised concerns regarding the accessibility of Town Hall following the board's July decision to move its meetings back to the Callahan Room on a trial basis.

"Not a surprise," Select Board member Anthony Pagliarulo said.

"I'm not surprised either, because it is a challenge," Chair Robert Bishop said.

During the meeting in July, several of the board members were hesitant to move back to Town Hall because of its lack of accessibility but agreed to hold its meetings in the Callahan Room for August and September to see how it goes.

According to the town's calendar, the board's Aug. 18 meeting has been relocated to the Senior Center, after just one meeting in Town Hall.

The Americans with Disabilities Act Committee approved sending a letter to the board, during its Aug. 4 meeting, advocating for moving the meetings back to the Senior Center.

"[The town hall] is not ADA friendly," ADA Chair Pat Pettit said.

During the July Select Board meeting, board members demonstrated that accommodations could be made with advance notice, using the library lift.

"[This sentiment] is the most ableist disenfranchising thing they could have said. Accessibility is accessibility for all, and my husband and I shouldn't have to make plans ahead of time to have someone let us in through the library. We're not convicts. We're disabled," committee member Lynn Clements said.

Additionally, there is no parking, and getting to the library is a long way around Town Hall, Pettit said.

"I didn't appreciate their reasoning. I didn't appreciate their reasoning at all The reasoning was that it's much easier to have their files readily accessible across the hallway," Clements said.

"But if my husband is in that meeting and a fire breaks out, it's going to take him a while to find someone to help him with the lift in the library."

The Town Hall has another lift at the police station. However, its functionality is unreliable, committee members said.

Pettit explained how the lift only works when he is there because he knows how to run it.

"It's a very lengthy instruction manual on how to operate it and if you jolt it, because you get nervous with it, you actually, like, jump the chain, so to speak. And then that's it's done. You can be halfway up and become stuck," Pettit said.

Clements highlighted that there have been instances where someone got stuck on the lift and needed assistance from the fire department to carry them off.

When raising her concerns to Bishop, Clements said he was "fantastic, as he always is" and was advised to write a letter to the board advocating for the board to move back to the Senior Center and why.
Three Berkshire Towns Get Internet Grants

BOSTON  Nine municipalities, including three in the Berkshires, are sharing $555,747 in grant funding to improve internet accessibility for residents.

The Municipal Digital Equity Implementation Program monies are through the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, part of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. This funding will support a broad range of activities across each community, including expanding digital literacy instruction, digital education and access, digital navigation services, laptop and tablet distribution and public wi-fi networks.

 Clarksburg is getting $64,677 to upgrade and expand public wi-fi at the community center and town park, purchase new devices and equipment for on-site use at the library, community center and school, offer a series of digital literacy lectures and develop materials to inform residents of available digital inclusion services. The town had been working on Clarksburg is getting $64,677 to upgrade and expand public wi-fi at the community center and town park, purchase new devices and equipment for on-site use at the library, community center and school, offer a series of digital literacy lectures and develop materials to inform residents of available digital inclusion services. The town had been working on its planning with the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission

 Dalton is getting $56,598 to fund digital literacy and new internet devices at public locations such as the Housing Authority, library, Senior Center and youth center). It will purchase computers and related equipment, provide stipends to youth digital navigators, contract external organizations to film digital literacy programs, facilitate train-the-trainer sessions and support procurement and program evaluations. The Senior Center will also distribute tablets to older adults.

 Lenox is getting $56,603 for public space improvements at the Community Center, library and Town Hall. This will include public wi-fi upgrades, new computers and other equipment to facilitate improved participation in public in-person and hybrid programs/events.

The other six communities are Charlemont ($46,828), North Andover ($60,000), Northfield ($85,260), Orleans ($64,800), Shutesbury ($55,979) and Somerset ($65,000).

The nine participating communities developed digital equity plans under the Municipal Digital Equity Planning Program, a statewide initiative that connects municipalities with qualified consultants to determine access gaps and enact planning activities aimed at bridging the digital divide.

"Massachusetts is narrowing the digital divide by working with communities to deliver digital training and education services to residents statewide," said interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba. "The Municipal Implementation Program offers a road map to local leaders through a planning exercise and puts dollars on the table to implement the communities' top priorities to close the digital divide."

A total of 105 cities and towns across the state participated in the program and 28 are currently participating in the Municipal Digital Equity Implementation Program. Communities participating in the planning program may apply for a direct grant of up to $100,000 after completing the planning process.
Naftogaz Ukrainy and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have signed a EUR 500 million revolving credit agreement, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced Wednesday.

"This is the bank's largest project in our country. But most importantly  for the first time, such a loan is backed by an EU guarantee, with no state guarantee from Ukraine required," she said.

According to the prime minister, the loan will help Ukraine prepare for the heating season and ensure homes have heat and electricity even during the harshest winter days.

Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretsky said the agreement sends a clear signal that Ukraine's partners understand the scale of threats posed by Russia.

"Thanks to the EBRD and all our partners for their trust and support. I am grateful to the Ukrainian government for its efforts to strengthen Naftogaz's capabilities. Energy security today and energy independence in the future are our strategic priorities," he said.

The loan is the first to be issued under the EU's UIF Hi-Bar program, eliminating the need for a Ukrainian state guarantee.

"We are proud to support Naftogaz with this new loan  the largest we have ever signed in Ukraine. Our financing bolsters Ukraine's energy security, a key priority for our investments in the country, and will help keep Ukrainians warm and powered this winter and beyond," said EBRD Managing Director for Ukraine and Moldova, Arvid Tuerkner.

Naftogaz will purchase gas under competitive conditions from more than 30 prequalified suppliers, based on contracts aligned with the standards of the European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET). EFET, which unites more than 120 European companies, works to improve transparency and efficiency in Europe's energy markets, promote competition, and ensure reliable energy supplies.
Despite constant shelling of the production infrastructure, Ukrainian energy companies are promptly restoring damaged facilities for both production and transportation of natural gas.

This was reported by Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine Mykola Kolisnyk on the air of the United News telethon on Wednesday.

"We are working according to the approved schedules for preparing for winter. Even after the attacks, we restore gas production and transportation in just a few days. This is the result of the coordinated work of energy specialists, repairmen and international partners," he said.

According to Kolisnyk, the Russian Federation carried out a targeted attack on the facilities of the gas transportation and gas distribution systems of Ukraine in order to disrupt the diversification of supply routes and prevent the use of the Ukrainian gas transportation system for the needs of Eastern European countries.

"The enemy's goal is not only to damage our infrastructure, but also to prevent us from receiving gas from alternative sources, in particular LNG from the Mediterranean, and European gas. This is a direct attempt to disrupt the EU's plan to replace Russian gas and strike at the energy security of the region," he noted.

At the same time, Ukraine is actively increasing gas imports and increasing the diversification of energy supply sources.

"In addition to LNG from the Baltic Sea, we are already testing gas supplies from the Caspian region, in particular, of Azerbaijani origin. We do not depend on any route or supplier - this is a principled position for ensuring energy security," the Deputy Minister emphasized.

He separately noted the role of the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, through which Ukraine receives financing and equipment for the rapid restoration of damaged infrastructure.

"Thanks to effective coordination and support from partners, Ukraine is ready to go through the heating season even in conditions of aggression, ensuring stable gas supplies and energy security of the country," Kolisnyk emphasized.

As reported, on the night of August 6, 2025, the Russian Federation carried out a targeted attack on the compressor station of the GTS Operator of Ukraine (GTSOU) in Odesa region near the Ukrainian-Romanian border, which provides a diversified route for the supply of natural gas to Ukraine.
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Several local authorities in India have issued orders banning the sale of meat on Independence Day, triggering outrage among opposition parties and members of the public.

At least four municipal bodies in the western state of Maharashtra and one in Telangana have ordered all slaughterhouses and meat shops to remain closed for 24 hours on Friday. India will celebrate 78 years of independence from British colonial rule on 15 August.

Meat bans during Hindu festivals have become routine practice in many northern states of India under prime minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party-led (BJP) government. However, the controversial bans are mostly limited to religious festivals.

National Family Health Survey data published in 2022 revealed that in more than half of Indias 30 states and union territories, above 90 per cent of the population consumed meat and fish. A Registrar General of India survey in 2014 found 70 per cent of people in India eat meat.

Civic bodies in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Kalyan-Dombivli, Malegaon and Nagpur regions are among those being criticised for banning the sale of meat during a secular holiday, a move which also brought reproach from the states deputy chief minister.

Ajit Pawar, whose faction of the Nationalist Congress Party forms a coalition government with the BJP in Maharashtra, said it was "wrong to impose such a ban".

File: An Indian man walks past a closed chicken shop inside a local market on the first day of a four-day ban on the sale of meat in Mumbai on September 10, 2015 ( AFP via Getty Images )

"In major cities, people of different castes and religions reside. If it is an emotional issue, then people accept it (ban) for a day. But if you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," the deputy chief minister was quoted by the Indian Express as saying.

Mr Pawar said people in rural Maharashtra indulge in non-vegetarian delicacies during celebrations. "If we look at the coastal Konkan region, people mostly eat seafood. The tribals are used to non-vegetarian food. The food habit and diversity has to be respected."

Former state minister Aaditya Thackeray protested, saying: What we eat on Independence Day is our choice.

Instead of imposing vegetarianism on the citizens, focus on improving the terrible roads and broken civic service, he wrote on X. Citizens will eat whatever they want to  vegetarian [or] non vegetarian.

The ruling BJP defended the ban, arguing that they were empowered to do so specifically on occasions celebrating Indias independence by a 1988 state government order.

Navnath Ban, a spokesperson for the BJP in Maharashtra, argued that the move was therefore not a new decision. The decision to keep slaughterhouses and meat shops closed on some important days such as Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti (Mahatma Gandhis birthday), Mahavir Jayanti, Ram Navmi etc was taken by the then-government in 1988, he told the Indian Express. Since then some civic bodies follow it.

Jitendra Awhad, a member of the Maharashtra assembly, claimed that the state government was fuelling a vegetariannon-vegetarian divide as only the latest in a string of social controversies.

Mr Awhad threatened to host a mutton party on Independence Day, adding: On the day we got freedom, you are taking away our freedom to eat what we want.

In the southern state of Telangana, the high court on Monday sought an explanation from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) regarding its order directing meat shops and slaughterhouses to remain shut on the occasion on Independence Day and the Hindu festival of Janmashtami, which will be celebrated this year on 16 August.

The decision to close down the cattle slaughter houses, meat shops, etc. is taken without citing any reasons and the said letter is a blatant example of colourable exercise of authority without any reason whatsoever, the petition before the high court read, according to Bar and Bench.

Asaduddin Owaisi, MP and member of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, called the ban order callous and unconstitutional.

Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day, he asked, claiming that 99 per cent of people in Telanga consumed meat. These meat bans violate peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition and religion, he added.
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Japan has suspended its annual large-scale and highly choreographed military event, saying forces are too busy meeting urgent security demands amid growing threats from China, Russia and North Korea.

Japans defence ministry said the Self-Defence Forces' annual review ceremony has been discontinued until the security environment surrounding Japan changes significantly.

In a statement, the ministry said it had become difficult to continue the event as it works to maintain our nations watertight defence posture in the face of the most severe and complex security environment since the end of World War II.

Traditionally, the SDFs ground, maritime, and air services had rotated hosting duties each autumn. This year, the Maritime Self-Defense Force was due to hold a naval review in Sagami Bay, Kanagawa Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo.

The SDF review is a ceremonial military exercise Japan holds roughly once a year to display its defence capabilities, discipline, and readiness to both the public and political leadership.

While it has military elements, its not a full-scale combat exercise  its closer to a parade and skills demonstration designed to boost morale, build public trust, and send a signal of capability to the international community.

open image in gallery Former Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida walks on the Maritime Self Defense Force's helicopter carrier JS Izumo during an international fleet review in Sagami Bay, southwest of Tokyo, Sunday, Nov 6, 2022

The event had already been scaled back in recent years, with the SDF holding it without spectators since 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, reducing the number of participating troops and equipment displays to limit the strain on personnel.

Japanese defence minister Gen Nakatani acknowledged earlier this month that the ceremony had long served to boost morale and foster public understanding of the SDFs role, but said the burden on troops had become too heavy.

Preparations for the review involve around 5,000 personnel for a month and require the use of defence equipment for up to two months, potentially disrupting training and surveillance duties, he said.

He said there is no scope for "slightest gap" in the SDF's response in a potential military event from Russia, China and North Korea amid intensifying military activities.

open image in gallery File US military planes line up on the runway for an elephant walk during a routine operational readiness exercise ( US Force Japan/X )

It comes after a Chinese naval drill in June near Japan triggered concerns in Tokyo. The country also disclosed Chinese military movement in a rare decision and lodged a protest with Beijing.

It said Chinas two aircraft carriers  the Shandong and the Liaoning conducted simultaneous drills in the Pacific for the first time, in what Tokyo described as an unprecedented move. Chinese fighter jets carried out hundreds of take-offs and landings from the carriers, with some flying close to Japanese surveillance aircraft.

Last year, prime minister Shigeru Ishiba renewed a pledge to build up his countrys military and deepen its alliance with the US under Donald Trumps administration, citing escalating tensions with China, Russia and North Korea.

Mr Ishiba said the security environment surrounding Japan and the international community has significantly worsened over the years.
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Tulip Siddiqs trial formally began in Bangladesh on Wednesday with testimonies of anti-corruption officials against the former British minister.

The Labour Party member is facing charges for allegedly using her familial connection to the ousted prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, to obtain state-owned land plots in the South Asian country.

Ms Siddiq, who is Hasina's niece, resigned from her post as an anti-corruption minister in Keir Starmers government in January following reports that she lived in London properties linked to her aunt and was named in an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh.

She said she had been cleared of wrongdoing but that the issue was becoming a distraction from the work of the government.

Ms Siddiq told The Guardian over the weekend that she was collateral damage in the feud between her aunt and Muhammad Yunus  the Nobel laureate appointed as the leader of Bangladesh in the absence of an elected prime minister.

These are wider forces that Im battling against  Theres no doubt people have done wrong things in Bangladesh, and they should be punished for it. Its just Im not one of them.

The trial at the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 began with testimonies by two officials of the countrys Anti-Corruption Commission. A third official is expected to testify later in the day, said Muhammad Tariqul Islam, a public prosecutor.

Ms Siddiq is being tried together with her mother, Sheikh Rehana, brother, Radwan Mujib, and sister, Azmina. She has been charged with facilitating their receipt of state land in a township project near the capital, Dhaka. The four were indicted earlier and asked to appear in court, however, the prosecution said they absconded and would be tried in absentia.

The Bangladesh court had issued an arrest warrant for Ms Siddiq in April. She was indicted in July.

Her lawyers had previously called the charges baseless and politically motivated.

Separately, the anti-corruption investigation has also alleged that Siddiqs family was involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of money were said to have been embezzled.

Siddiq represents the north London district of Hampstead and Highgate in parliament, served in the Labour Party government as economic secretary to the Treasury  the minister responsible for tackling financial corruption.

Ms Hasina was ousted after a 15-year rule in a student-led mass uprising in August last year. She fled to India and has been in exile ever since. Hundreds of protesters were killed during the uprising and Ms Hasina now faces charges, including crimes against humanity.
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Myanmar junta detained children as young as two years old and subjected them to torture, sexual abuse, and beatings to often use them as proxies for their parents, a United Nations-led investigation has found.

The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM)  covering a period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025  has found evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Myanmar with an increasing frequency since the 2021 military coup.

The investigation covering a one-year period draws on more than 1,300 sources, including nearly 600 eyewitness testimonies, photographs, videos, documents, maps and forensic evidence.

The report found evidence of a rise in mass imprisonment without due process, indiscriminate airstrikes and artillery and drone attacks causing civilian deaths, burning of homes, hospitals, schools, religious sites and widespread torture, including sexual violence in detention.

It said gathered evidence from eyewitnesses indicating that children  aged ranging from two to 17 years  have been detained and subjected to torture, ill treatment or sexual and gender-based crimes.

These children are often detained in place of their parents, who are suspected to be associated with opposition groups or movements but remain absconding.

Protest marking the second anniversary of Myanmars 2021 military coup outside Myanmar Embassy, in Bangkok ( REUTERS )

The report uncovered a pattern of intensifying systematic torture in Myanmars military-run detention facilities using methods of electric shocks, strangulations and gang rapes.

We have uncovered significant evidence, including eyewitness testimony, showing systematic torture in Myanmar detention facilities, said Nicholas Koumjian, head of the mechanism formed in 2018 to analyse evidence of serious violations of international law.

We have made headway in identifying the perpetrators, including the commanders who oversee these facilities and we stand ready to support any jurisdictions willing and able to prosecute these crimes.

It comes as the nationwide fighting between the military and armed pro-democracy forces as well as ethnic armed militias, has intensified in the country since military coup of February 2021, when the army overthrew the civilian-run government of Aung San Suu Kyi and the detained civilian leaders, including president Win Myint.

Tens of thousands of people have been displaced since as fighting continues between the junta and the resistance forces in many areas, with both sides accused of using civilians as informants, forced conscriptions and targets.

The report said investigators had made progress in identifying individual members and units of the security forces linked to operations at specific detention sites, including direct perpetrators of sexual and gender-based crimes as well as senior commanders.

But the names were being withheld to avoid alerting those under investigation.

Its very important that perpetrators believe that somebody is watching, somebody is collecting evidence, said Mr Koumjian said.

Our report highlights a continued increase in the frequency and brutality of atrocities committed in Myanmar, he added.

We are working towards the day when the perpetrators will have to answer for their actions in a court of law.

The military-ruled government has consistently denied carrying out attacks on civilians.

A spokesperson for Myanmar's military-backed government did not immediately respond to the UNs requests for comment. The military-backed government has not responded to over two dozen requests by the UN team for information about the alleged crimes and requests to access the country, the UN report said.

The Independent has reached out to Myanmar's defence ministry for a comment.
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Typhoon Podul made landfall in Taiwan on Wednesday, where authorities closed schools and government offices as heavy rain threatened more damage to agriculture in the islands southeast.

The storm hit Taitung county on the east coast shortly after noon, moving across the southern third of the island at about 36kmph (22mph), at which rate it would head out to the Taiwan Strait and China by late afternoon, according to the Central Meteorological Agency.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong issued a Signal No 1 alert, the lowest on the scale, as the storm is expected to pass through a close range but without a direct hit.

Authorities have shut schools and government offices in nine cities and counties, including Kaohsiung and Tainan, and cancelled 252 domestic and 129 international flights, mostly at Kaohsiung and Taoyuan airports.

The areas affected are well south of the capital, Taipei, along with Taiwan's main international airport and high-tech industrial base.

More than 5,500 people have been moved from vulnerable areas, the government said, some still recovering from storms earlier in the summer.

Rainfall of up to 600mm is forecast in mountainous regions over the coming days, raising fears of flooding and landslides.

Chu Chung-jui of the National Science and Technology Centre for Disaster Reduction urged residents in valley areas to leave, saying: we must especially urge people living downstream to follow government instructions and evacuate.

Poduls outer bands were already bringing high waves and strong winds to the east coast by Wednesday morning.

Heat from the storms outer subsiding air pushed temperatures to around 35C in Hong Kong, with forecasts warning of rain, squally thunderstorms, and the possible upgrade to Signal No 3 if conditions deteriorate. Hong Kong airports cancelled 15 flights to and from Taiwan amid growing storm concern.

The storm is expected to cross the islands mountainous spine, weakening before moving into the Taiwan Strait and towards Chinas Fujian province.

A woman sits in front of a screen displaying information on cancelled domestic flights, as Typhoon Podul approaches the country, in Taipei, Taiwan ( REUTERS )

The counties and cities of Tainan, Kaohsiung, Chiayi, Yunlin, Pingtung and Hualien on the east coast and the island group of Penghu in the Taiwan Strait are expected to take the brunt of the storm.

Typhoons typically hit Taiwans less-populated east coast hardest before losing force over the Central Mountain Range, but forecasters warn Poduls size  with a radius of 120km  means it could still cause significant damage as it moves westward.

The storm arrives after weeks of heavy rain in central and southern Taiwan that damaged crops and disrupted power supplies to rural areas.

Typhoons often cause further harm to agriculture, with fruit farms and cash crops vulnerable to flooding and high winds.

Officials say recovery crews are on alert to restore electricity and clear roads quickly if Podul causes fresh disruption.
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A Syrian asylum seeker residing at the hotel that has been at the centre of recent anti-migrant protests has been charged with several sexual offences.

Mohammed Sharwarq, who had been living at the Bell Hotel in Epping, faces seven charges linked to offences alleged to have been committed between 25 July and 12 August.

The 32-year-old was taken in for questioning on Tuesday and has since been charged, and has been remanded into custody.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates Court later today.

A spokesperson for the force said: Mohammed Sharwarq, a Syrian national who resides at The Bell Hotel, Epping has been charged with the following offences: two counts of common assault; four counts of assault by beating; one count of sexual assault on a male contrary to section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between 25 July and 12 August.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates Court today, Wednesday 13 August.

Officers are not currently seeking any other suspects in relation with this case.

Protests began in Epping on 13 July after another asylum seeker was charged with allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl.

Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, denies sexual assault and is due to stand trial this month.

Home secretary Yvette Cooper has called for more transparency from police about suspects, and said it was an operational decision for forces and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) over what details to release.

Ms Cooper said we do think more transparency is needed in the information given by police.
Ukrainian defense forces have thwarted the assault of the Russian occupiers on the Pokrovsk axis, National Guard Commander Oleksandr Pivnenko has said.

"The Russians made another attempt to break through in the area of responsibility of the Spartan brigade of the National Guard. Aerial reconnaissance recorded the movement of an enemy armored personnel carrier. As a result of professional actions, a platoon of Russians was destroyed, the assault attempt was thwarted," he wrote in a telegram.

According to Pivnenko, Ukrainian fighters promptly worked out the enemy's equipment and personnel with drones and artillery.

Meanwhile, over the past day, the guardsmen have repelled 27 enemy assault actions along the front line.

Three units of armored vehicles, eight artillery systems, two mortars, nine units of automotive equipment and two ammo depots were destroyed.
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A motorist who claimed his luxury electric car accelerated on its own on the motorway has made his first appearance in court charged with fraud.

Nathan Owen, 32, called police for assistance on March 6 last year, to report his Jaguar I-Pace vehicle was speeding out of control and the brakes were not working.

Officers scrambled to intercept the vehicle, which had travelled along the eastbound carriageways of the M57, M62 and M58 motorways in Merseyside before it was eventually brought to a stop.

On Wednesday, Owen, from Prestatyn, North Wales, attended Liverpool Magistrates Court, where he indicated not guilty pleas to dangerous driving, intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance and two counts of fraud.

On the fraud matters, it is alleged that he made a false representation to CA Auto Finance that the Jaguar was faulty and was accelerating on its own with the brakes unresponsive.

open image in gallery Officers scrambled to intercept the vehicle ( PA )

It is also said that he made the same claims to The Sun and Daily Mail newspapers, with the intention of causing loss to the Jaguar company or exposing it to risk of loss.

Prosecutor Renee Southern told the court that it was the Crowns case that the defendant had persistently and dishonestly claimed the vehicle was defective.

She said Owen wanted to get rid of the vehicle and thus avoid further payments totalling 4,426 to the finance company.

Police made manoeuvres to box the Jaguar in, which led to motorway closures and substantial delays, the court heard.

Owen, of The Grove, was released on unconditional bail to attend a further hearing at Liverpool Crown Court on September 10, when he is expected to enter formal pleas.

Previously, he had reportedly said he was on his way home from work on the first day of his job as a childrens support worker and feared he would die or kill someone else during the journey on March 6.
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Critics have branded the nationwide rollout of live facial recognition technology as another move towards a total surveillance society.

The Home Office has announced that ten more vans fitted with high-tech cameras will be deployed across the country to catch high-harm offenders as part of a government overhaul of neighbourhood policing.

Alongside the expansion, the government will simultaneously consult on how the technology should be used and what appropriate safeguards and oversight are needed to shape a new legal framework for its use.

However, Labour peer Baroness Chakrabarti, former director of human rights group Liberty, has warned of privacy concerns and the risk of false matches.

Some would say this is yet another move towards a total surveillance society, she told BBC Radio 4s Today Programme.

And Campaign group Big Brother Watch has warned the latest rollout treats us all as a nation of suspects.

Baroness Chakrabarti said its use raises issues around challenges to privacy, challenges to freedom of assembly and association, and problems with race and sex discrimination because of the higher likelihood of false matches in the context of certain groups.

open image in gallery Ten vans equipped with cameras will be rolled out across seven police forces ( PA )

She also accused the police of deploying the powerful technology completely outside the law in recent years as she welcomed news the government would consult on legislation.

It's pretty clear to me that, as I say, it's been a bit of a wild west, she added. The police procuring the technology from whichever companies they see fit, the police drawing up watch lists of who they're looking for and what level, what severity of crime should be sufficient for a deployment, and pretty much marking their own homework.

Big Brother Watch has warned that police currently rely on a patchwork of existing laws to justify its use and noted MPs have never voted to authorise it.

They are currently supporting a Judicial Review against the Metropolitan Police following the misidentification of an anti-knife crime community worker in February 2024, who was held and questioned by police.

Their interim director, Rebecca Vincent, called for the Home Office to scrap the wider rollout until robust legislative safeguards are established

This unprecedented escalation in the use of facial recognition technology across the UK is alarming and represents a significant expansion of the surveillance state, she added.

Live facial recognition turns every passerby into a walking barcode and treats us all as a nation of suspects.

open image in gallery Baroness Shami Chakrabarti claimed use of live facial recognition by police has been a wild west ( PA )

Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson denied Baroness Chakrabartis claims, insisting the move is about giving the tools to our police officers to enable them to keep us safe.

She said the Metropolitan Police have used it to make 580 arrests in the last 12 months, including people wanted for rape and domestic abuse.

So I think this is a really powerful tool for policing, she added. And its actually a tool, its not an automated decision maker.

Some 10 vans equipped with cameras will be rolled out across seven police forces  Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley and Hampshire  over the coming weeks.

They will be manned by trained officers and individual forces will decide how and when they are deployed in their areas, operating within the College of Policing guidance.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said they would be focused on identifying sex offenders or people wanted for the most serious crimes who the police have not been able to find.

The algorithm being used in the vans has been independently tested and will only be operated in specific circumstances and with robust oversight, the Home Office said.

Chief Superintendent Tim Morgan of South Wales Police, which is co-ordinating the rollout alongside the National Police Chiefs Council, sought to reassure the public that the technology would be used ethically.

We understand the concerns which are raised about the use of live facial recognition technology and we use any new technology ethically and spend time and effort making sure its deployed in line with all legislation and guidance, he said.

It is important to remember that use of this has never resulted in a wrongful arrest in South Wales and there have been no false alerts for several years as the technology and our understanding has evolved.

Lindsey Chiswick, NPCC lead for facial recognition, said live facial recognition had already been used to great success, locating thousands of wanted offenders, or others breaching their bail conditions.

I am confident that the increased use of this technology will continue to support the safety of communities across the country moving forward, she said.

open image in gallery Yvette Cooper said the technology would be focussed on catching sex offenders or people wanted for serious crimes ( PA )

Forces already deploying live facial recognition have used it to arrest rape, domestic abuse, knife crime and robbery suspects as well as sex offenders breaching their conditions.

Meanwhile, the Home Office said every community across England and Wales has now been assigned a named, contactable officer to handle reports of crimes like anti-social behaviour.

Their details will be made available for residents on their local forces website, it is understood.

The pledge was made as part of the governments previously announced Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, under which forces have signed up to a commitment to respond to neighbourhood queries within 72 hours.

The government said the move would help ensure the public will have consistent direct links to their local force, with dedicated anti-social behaviour leads and new visible patrols in town centres.
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Three children are accused of murdering a man on the Isle of Sheppey using a glass bottle and rocks.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 14 and 15, appeared at Medway Magistrates Court on Wednesday afternoon, charged with the murder of 49-year-old Alexander Cashford.

Kent police earlier said they were called to the Warden Bay Road area of Leysdown-on-Sea shortly after 7pm on Sunday, following an altercation involving a small number of people.

Mr Cashford was confirmed dead at the scene, with the force saying multiple injuries to his body were reported.

The three teenagers, all from London, are thought to have been on holiday in Kent at the time of the attack.

They were jointly charged with murder on Tuesday.

open image in gallery Alexander Cashford died on Sunday evening ( Kent Police )

The defendants were accompanied in the well of the court by their parents on Wednesday.

Other family members watched from the public gallery.

For the prosecution, Dylan Bradshaw said: What we know is that Alexander Cashford, a 49-year-old male, shortly after 7pm on Sunday August 10, went to the beach area of Wardens Bay.

About an hour and five minutes later, he was pronounced dead  during that period, he was the subject of a violent assault.

The attack is alleged to involve a glass bottle and rocks being thrown, the court heard.

open image in gallery Police officers carry out searches near the scene in the Leysdown-on-Sea resort on the Isle of Sheppey ( PA )

The 16-year-old and 14-year-old both cried during the hearing while the 15-year-old looked at the floor, rocking slightly.

A 12-year-old girl, arrested on Tuesday in Basildon, Essex, is still in custody.

On Monday, a police cordon could be seen in a large clearing behind the beach in the Leysdown-on-Sea resort, in front of a caravan park.

Specialist officers brought out a sniffer dog at the crime scene.

They also investigated in Leysdown-on-Sea town centre, near the arcade.

The fire service arrived on Tuesday afternoon to remove their equipment while the police officers took down their cordon.

open image in gallery Police at the seaside resort after Mr Cashfords death ( PA )

Locals have called the incident shocking, and many have said that nothing ever happens in the area.

A shopkeeper, working at Oasis Stores across the road from the incident, said he had run out to help after his wife said someone was having a heart attack.

He said that Mr Cashford was just here for holidays.

An air ambulance was called to the scene after the alleged attack and Mr Cashford was pronounced dead around 7pm on Sunday.

Detectives urged any witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police to contact them.

Aanyone with information should contact the major crime unit via the major incident public portal or by phone on 01622 652006, quoting 10-1384.

Reports can also be made anonymously via Crimestoppers.
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Manchester Arena plotter Hashem Abedi has been charged with three counts of attempted murder after four prison officers were injured at a maximum security prison.

Abedi, 28, is also charged with one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of unauthorised possession of a knife or offensive weapon after the incident at HMP Frankland in Durham on April 12.

Counter Terrorism Policing North East said it had carried out a "thorough investigation" of the incident with Durham Constabulary and HMP Frankland.

Abedi, who remains in prison, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on September 18.

Three prison officers were taken to hospital with serious injuries following the incident.

Speaking in April , the families of five people murdered in the Manchester Arena bombing say they are in disbelief Abedi was able to attack prison officers in HMP Frankland.

open image in gallery Manchester Arena plotter Hashem Abedi targeted prison staff at HMP Frankland ( Tom Wilkinson/PA )

Abedi, who had been a long-term inmate at HMP Franklands separation centre, was jailed for life with a minimum sentence of 55 years for the murders of 22 people after helping his brother carry out the suicide bombing of an Ariana Grande concert in 2017.

He moved to the separation centre after carrying out an attack on prison officers in Londons MMP Belmarsh in 2020.

The families letter to Ms Mahmood says: "We are writing in absolute disbelief" that, once again, the "evil Hashem Abedi has been allowed to cause danger to life".

"As the families of Megan Hurley, Eilidh Macleod, Chloe Rutherford, Liam Curry, and Kelly Brewster, our beautiful, beloved children who were so tragically murdered along with 16 others in the Manchester Arena terror attack in May 2017, we find this situation beyond comprehension."

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said it will launch a full independent review into how the attack was able to happen.

In response to the letter, it said in a statement that their thoughts remain with the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing and their families.

An MoJ spokesperson added: "The Government will do whatever it takes to keep our hardworking staff safe, and our thoughts remain with the two prison officers still in hospital as they recover.

Weve already taken immediate action to suspend access to kitchens in separation and close supervision centres.
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Disinformation could still spread around suspects' ethnicity despite new police guidance aimed at sharing more information with the public, a minister has admitted.

The interim guidance by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing comes after authorities were accused of covering up offences carried out by asylum seekers.

Police should consider disclosing the extra details about suspects charged in particularly high-profile and sensitive investigations, the new guidance says, although decisions will remain with the investigating force.

Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said the government was very supportive of forces being as open and transparent as possible when charging decisions are announced.

We're now saying that should then include nationality and ethnicity, unless there's a very good reason not to do so, she told Sky News.

open image in gallery Misinformation spread after three children were killed in Axel Rudakubanas knife attack in Southport ( PA Wire )

However, she conceded that disinformation could still spread if ethnicity information is released.

She said: (Disinformation) is a bigger problem for society, I think, but in terms of particular individuals, what normally happens is at charge, information is released.

That's what's happened before.

It is hoped the change could combat the spread of misinformation on social media, after Merseyside Police was criticised for not revealing the ethnicity of Axel Rudakabana when he was arrested on suspicion of murder after he attacked children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the Merseyside town last July.

Within hours of the attack, posts spread on the internet which claimed the suspect was a 17-year-old asylum seeker who had come to the country by boat last year.

In the first press conference after the event, at 6.30pm that day, Merseyside Police chief constable Serena Kennedy told journalists the suspect was originally from Cardiff.

But the police statement did little to quell the misinformation spreading online, and the next day, riots erupted across the country.

In a separate incident in May, to counter rumours that an incident involving a car ploughing into crowds during Liverpools Premier League victory parade was a terror attack, the force promptly revealed the ethnicity and nationality of a man they had arrested, who was white and British.

open image in gallery Police confirmed the suspect was a white British man in the aftermath of a crash at Liverpools Premier League victory parade ( AFP via Getty )

Dame Diana said the government has asked the Law Commission to look into the guidance to make sure any future trial is not prejudiced by information released by police.

The guidance, which comes into immediate effect, encourages police to share nationality and ethnicity information when there is a policing purpose to do so. This could include cases where there is a risk to public safety, high levels of misinformation or disinformation or in cases of significant public interest.

It also reaffirms that it is not the role or responsibility of the police to verify a suspects immigration status.

Earlier this month, Warwickshire police and crime commissioner Philip Seccombe pressed the Home Secretary for an urgent update on the issue after the charging of two men  reported to be Afghan asylum seekers  prompted accusations that the force withheld information about their immigration status.

The force denied a cover-up after being criticised by Reform UK. Asked if information about a suspects asylum status will be shared in new guidance, Dame Diana told BBC Breakfast: To date, its not something that the Home Office comment on in terms of asylum applications that are made by individuals.

open image in gallery Riots broke out across the country last summer after misinformation spread over the suspect in the Southport attack ( PA Wire )

Announcing the new guidance, the NPCCs lead for communications and media, deputy chief constable Sam de Reya, said last summers disorder showed there are major, real-world consequences from information put into the public domain.

We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels, he added.

Disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum. It is good police work for us to fill this vacuum with the facts about issues of wider public interest.

Emily Spurrell of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners also welcomed the move, adding there was a clear need to update the guidance for forces.

She added: We have seen the speed with which mis- or disinformation can spread online and the danger to public safety that can cause, so it is right police keep the public informed as far as is possible whilst preserving a suspects right to a fair trial.
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A policing chief is facing criticism over his dangerous comments telling the public to stop shoplifters and not just rely on police officers to curb thefts.

Matthew Barber, the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, branded people who do not do anything in the face of shoplifting as part of the problem.

Joshua Reynolds, the Liberal Democrat MP for Maidenhead, which is in the Thames Valley Police area, launched a strong criticism of Mr Barbers remarks, telling The Independent they were dangerous and irresponsible.

And following Mr Barbers claims, policing minister Dame Diana Johnson warned members of the public against confronting shoplifters.

The backlash comes as the number of shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales climbed to another record high in 2024-25, up 20 per cent from 2023-24.

open image in gallery Shoplifters brazenly steal from pharmacies in shocking CCTV ( National Pharmacy Association )

Last month, home secretary Yvette Cooper announced a new crime blitz to crack down on crime, featuring more visible policing and stronger enforcement in a bid to restore confidence in policing.

But as The Independent revealed recently, shopkeepers are struggling against the wave of shoplifting offences.

In response to the crisis, The Telegraph reported Mr Barber said: If youre not even going to challenge people, youre not going to try and stop them, then people will get away with it. Thats not just about policing. Thats a bigger problem with society, people who [dont do anything]  youre part of the problem.

He told a meeting of the Thames Valley police and crime panel in June that he wouldnt for a moment want to suggest people should feel obliged to take it upon themselves to rugby tackle every perceived criminal to the ground.

But he added: We should all be responsible citizens in our community.

open image in gallery Matthew Barber, the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, appears before a council meeting ( Buckinghamshire Council )

If youve got someone in your store now stealing from you, call 999. Also, ideally, try and stop them leaving, dont just stand there and watch, which a lot of people do, which frustrates me.

Retailers, meanwhile, have accused police of not doing enough to tackle shoplifting.

A new survey revealed almost nine in 10 (88 per cent) of pharmacies have experienced a surge in shoplifting incidents in the last year. Some 87 per cent also reported an increase in aggressive or intimidating behaviour towards pharmacy teams, while 22 per cent said they had witnessed physical assaults on staff. But of those who reported these instances to police, almost three-quarters (73 per cent) said they felt the response was insufficient.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA)  which conducted the poll of 476 pharmacies in England, and represents more than 6,000 independent community pharmacies  called the findings unacceptable.

In response to the commissioners comments, Mr Reynolds said: With all due respect to the police and crime commissioner, asking shop staff or bystanders to challenge criminals is not only irresponsible, its dangerous.

open image in gallery Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson warned members of the public against confronting shoplifters ( PA )

"Having previously worked in supermarkets, I have personally experienced the threat of violence from shoplifters. It is wholly unreasonable  and frankly irresponsible  to imply that any individual should put themselves at risk in such circumstances.

"The job of tackling crime on our high streets should not fall to shopworkers or people doing their weekly shop  it falls to the police. And if theyre not there in sufficient numbers, thats something for the commissioner to fix, not deflect.

"The public has every right to expect safety in their communities. That safety comes from visible, proactive policing and not from moral lectures aimed at shop workers and citizens who are just trying to go about their daily lives.

"If the commissioner wants to see more people stepping in, then he needs to start by showing that the police will be there to back them up  not by putting them in harms way

And speaking on BBC Radio 4s Today programme, Ms Johnson said: I would not advise people to tackle an individual who was stealing.

open image in gallery Shoplifter in Greggs getting arrested by undercover police this year ( Metropolitan Police )

I came across someone stealing in a store in Hull. I went straight to the assistant to tell them what was happening. I felt that was the best thing to do.

Obviously, it is a judgment for individuals to take, but I am worried about people feeling they need to have a go. I dont think that is appropriate.

But Mr Barber told The Telegraph he stood by his remarks, adding: The idea that this is just a job for the police, citizens have no responsibility, put your head down, carry on, dont get involved, I think that makes for a very poor society.

However, he stressed that he was not implying the public should step in where the police are not, as he emphasised the clear role police had in tackling crime.

He added: But surely the alternative to intervening if a crime is happening in society, is you put your head down, get on with your life, ignore it, is that right?

In a further comment, Mr Barber said: I believe in social responsibility and in people being engaged in their communities to help keep them safe. People should not turn a blind eye to crime and post about it on social media instead of reporting and assisting the police with information and evidence.

I have made tackling shoplifting a priority for Thames Valley Police and that has resulted in more criminals being charged, more patrols being visible, easier sharing of evidence from stores, more support for retailers and a focus on the most prolific offenders. As I said in my original comments in June, I am not expecting everyone to be rugby tackling criminals to the ground. I am also not expecting people to put themselves in harms way, but this is about being aware and as a minimum reporting shoplifting to the police.

I encourage retailers, shop workers and the shoppers to report crime so the police can act. Its their job to investigate and fight crime, including shoplifting. But we can all play a part in building a safer community  at the very least reporting crime we see, rather than accepting it.

A Home Office spokesperson told The Independent: We understand the devastating impact of shop theft on retailers. We are restoring visible, responsive, neighbourhood policing, with over 500 town centres getting extra patrols and by next spring the first 3,000 increase in neighbourhood officers and PCSOs will be in place across the country.

Our landmark Crime and Policing Bill will also bring in a specific offence for assaulting retail workers and end the effective immunity for shop theft of goods under 200. Alongside this, a new Tackling Retail Crime Together Strategy is bringing together multiple sources of data from the industry and police to better target and respond to perpetrators.

They added that the government is providing more than 7 million over the next three years to support the police in tackling retail crime.
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A long-serving British Airways cabin crew member has won a discrimination claim after she was fired when she became unable to fly due to stress and anxiety.

Jennifer Clifford worked for the airline for almost 40 years, but developed symptoms of stress and depression in September 2021, leading to a period of sick leave.

She was temporarily moved to a ground role, but was dismissed after she was still unable to return to her flying role at the end of 2022. Ms Clifford said her condition was minimised by the company, with managers having described her as having just a little bit of anxiety.

A tribunal has accepted her discrimination claim, with it concluding the airline should have considered redeploying her to an alternative ground role rather than dismissing her.

Ms Clifford began working as cabin crew for British airways in 1983 before rising to become an inflight manager by the Covid-19 pandemic.

She was placed on furlough in April 2020 and was told she would be made redundant in August. However, she was then offered the alternative role of cabin crew, two grades below her previous job, and launched a grievance about this.

open image in gallery ( Getty )

In September 2021, she began her period of sick leave, her first in almost 40 years working at the airline.

She told her bosses she would be comfortable committing to a phased return in a ground role in Gatwick Airport, which was closer to her home than her usual Heathrow base.

She was offered a role in the Heathrow Help Hub and began a phased return to work two days a week here in September 2022.

When this increased to three days a week, Ms Clifford told BA that she found this overwhelming and that the long commute to Heathrow and the fast-paced and noisy environment was having a significant impact on her wellbeing.

Her line manager here, Nigel Landy, asked her multiple times why she felt overwhelmed and described her as having just a little bit of anxiety.

The tribunal also heard how Mr Landy told staff: If you dont like working here then leave.

Though these comments were described as certainly clumsy by the tribunal, they were not found to have amounted to disability-related harassment and that part of Ms Cliffords claim was dismissed.

open image in gallery She was offered a role in the Heathrow Help Hub and began a phased return to work two days a week here in September 2022. ( Reuters )

When she was still unable to fly by the end of 2022, her termination date was set for March 2023 but she left in December 2022.

Ms Cliffords complaint was upheld by the tribunal judge Emma Hawksworth, who said: The claimant needed a phased return in a ground duties placement before returning to her full contractual flying role.

That was because of the need to rebuild her confidence and to give time to adjust to working again, and these requirements arose from her disability. She had problems working at the help hub because of the busy environment, arising from her anxiety and depression causing her to feel overwhelmed. She struggled with the long commute because that increased feelings of stress and anxiety arising in consequence of her disability.

She remained unable, because of anxiety and depression, to return to her flying role when required to do so by the respondent at the end of the resourcing and recruitment placement.

The judgement added: The claimant had very long service with the respondent. She had had a lengthy period of absence from work, in part because of things for which she was not responsible: a long period of furlough and a long period when the respondent was considering her grievance.

A reasonable employer would have given the claimant a longer and more suitable phased return and would, in line with its policy, have considered redeployment to a ground based role before deciding to dismiss her.

Ms Clifford's additional claim of sex discrimination was dismissed.
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A mother is still missing more than a day after vanishing from a Cornish seaside town as her heartbroken family issue a desperate plea for her to come home.

Claire Bennett, 49, was last seen leaving Truro railway station at 3.24pm on Monday before disappearing, according to Devon and Cornwall Police.

Ms Bennett, from St Austell, is described as a blonde white female, around 5ft 10ins and of slim build. She was last seen wearing a white top, black cardigan and blue jeans.

Her daughter told PlymouthLive: Mum, if you read this please come home. We aren't mad at you and we all bloody love you!

You win at hide and seek. Just even send me a message to tell me you're OK. We can get through this. I promise. I love you.

open image in gallery Claire Bennett ( Devon and Cornwall Police )

Her daughter also claimed that items belonging to Claire had been found. She added: We found a bag we believe to be hers at the park by the viaduct in Truro.

We were asked not to continue looking on foot for her due to the police dogs and scents etc.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: Searches and enquiries are ongoing, but we are appealing for anyone who has seen Claire or knows where she is to contact us.

Anyone who sees Claire or knows of her whereabouts is asked to contact police on 999 quoting log 610 of 11 August.
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Thousands of jobs are at risk after major accessories retailer Claires announced it was set to appoint administrators.

Around 2,150 jobs could be at risk. The fashion giant has 278 stores in the UK and 28 in Ireland, but it has been struggling with falling sales and fierce competition.

Administrators Interpath will "assess options for the company" as all the shops continue trading for the foreseeable, Claires said.

This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claire's across all markets," Claires CEO Chris Cramer said.

In the UK, taking this step will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward.

open image in gallery The fashion giant has 278 stores in the UK and 28 in Ireland, but it has been struggling with falling sales and fierce competition ( Getty )

We are deeply grateful to our employees, partners and our customers during this challenging period.

Administrators are set to seek a potential rescue deal for the chain, which has seen sales tumble in the face of recent weak consumer demand.

Will Wright, UK chief executive at Interpath, said: Claires has long been a popular brand across the UK, known not only for its trend-led accessories but also as the go-to destination for ear piercing.

Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern for as long as we can, while we assess options for the company.

This includes exploring the possibility of a sale which would secure a future for this well-loved brand.

open image in gallery Claires has filed a notice to appoint administrators ( PA )

The US-owned company filed for bankruptcy in the US last week. It listed both its assets and liabilities in the $1 billion to $10 billion range in its Delaware filing.

Executives cited a perfect storm of challenges contributing to the companys financial strain. One of the most pressing issues is the declining demand from younger shoppers.

This is especially Generation Alpha, who increasingly prefer online fashion experiences tied to social media platforms rather than traditional mall-based retail.

Claires is grappling with mounting pressure from fast-fashion and ultra-low-cost online retailers such as Shein, Temu, Amazon, and TikTok Shop.

These digital-first competitors are able to quickly respond to trends and offer products at prices traditional retailers struggle to match.
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People under the age of 22 could get free bus travel if new plans go ahead.

Free travel for this age group is already available in Scotland and now MPs are calling on the government to do the same in England, too.

The Transport Select Committee, which made the recommendation, said it would improve young peoples access to work and skills opportunities and help embed long-term public transport use.

People aged 16-21 in Wales are entitled to a one-third discount on fares, and from next month will be able to travel for 1 per journey.

Parts of England offer discounted or free bus travel for young people, such as London for 16 and 17-year-olds.

People are entitled to free bus travel in England when they reach the state pension age, which is currently 66 but will rise from next year.

Bus fares in England for all passengers are capped at 3 until the end of 2025.

In a report on buses, the select committee said: Englands patchwork of local youth concessions contrasts with national schemes in Scotland and Wales.

A coherent national approach to ensure fair access across England is essential if the government is serious about driving economic growth, which depends on removing barriers to education, training, and employment for the next generation.

Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, chair of the Transport Select Committee ( UK Parliament )

The report described public transport as a major barrier to employment for young people, especially in places with limited services.

It added: In some areas, transport is restricting opportunity rather than enabling it.

The committee urged the government to reform the way local bus services are funded, with longer-term settlements.

It also called for a national ambition for a minimum level on public transport connectivity.

Department for Transport (DfT) figures show the number of bus journeys taken in England outside London fell by 22 per cent from 4.6 billion in 2009 to 3.6 billion in 2024.

Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, who chairs the committee, said: Those most affected by unreliable or even non-existent buses include the young, who need them to get to school, college, university and their first jobs.

Denying young people these experiences denies them their life chances.

We call for a universal, free bus pass for all under-22s to equalise opportunity.

While the bus fare caps have been beneficial, the government has yet to spell out a coherent strategy of what they aim to achieve, and whether more targeted options could produce better outcomes.

While the governments Bus Services Bill contains positive ideas, the Transport Committees report says ministers should go further to get bums back on seats.

The Bill, which is going through Parliament, will lead to an overhaul of buses, such as by giving all local transport authorities new powers to run their own services.

It will also reduce some of the red tape involved in bus franchising, including reducing the minimum period between local areas taking control of services and being allowed to start operations.

The DfT has been approached for a comment.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the planned talks between President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in the White House are not perceived as concessions to the Russian dictator, but as a clarification of positions, the State Department website has reported.

"People have to understand  for President Trump, a meeting is not a concession. If you watch some of the news  I dont watch a lot of it anymore  but you watch it, and these people are going nuts. Oh, this is  what a win for a Putin; he gets a meeting. He doesnt view it that way. A meeting is what you do to kind of figure out and make your decision. I want to have all the facts. I want to look this guy in the eye. And thats what the President wants to do. So honestly, I think were going to know very early in that meeting whether this thing has any chance of success or not.

The President is an extraordinary dealmaker. Look, I didnt know him before he ran for President. I mean, I knew he was, obviously, but Ive gotten to work very closely with him here over the last six months and even my first  his first four years in office when I was in the Senate. Hes an amazing negotiator. Im not just saying this because  I mean, he really, truly is. He has a tremendous instinct for deciphering human nature, so understanding how to navigate these things. And I do think  Ive seen it be very successful in these trade deals when he comes in and closes them, and theyre always in person. Its hard to do that on the phone. So I think thats what Friday is going to be about, and well have a better sense of it. Its not going to be easy. This war means a lot to Putin. I mean, the last month, the Russians lost  I think in July they lost 60,000 Russians  not lost like missing in action  like dead," Rubio told radio talkshow host Sid Rosenberg of Sid and Friends in the Morning.

He emphasized that he would call the planned summit "a meeting to clarify positions." Rubio added that sooner or later everyone will find out whether this approach had a chance of success.
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JK Rowling has reignited her feud with Nicola Sturgeon as she blasted her new autobiography in a review posted on social media.

The author and gender critical activist posted a picture of scribbled-on pages of Frankly, which was released this week, on X in a continuation of their long-standing clash over the issue of transgender rights.

On one page, she scrawled Are you f***ing kidding me??? over a page where she accused Ms Sturgeon of opining on the need to make the public sphere safe for women and girls. It comes after years of tension between the pair during heated rows over Scotlands approach to trans rights.

In a post on X, Ms Rowling wrote: Annotating as I read to review. Might auction my scribbled-on copy, proceeds to go to @ForWomenScot. NB: nobody whos offended by swearing should bid.

While in office, the former first minister doggedly attempted to push through legislation creating a self-identification system for people who want to change gender, which was eventually blocked by the UK government. The ensuing debate partly led to her resignation as first minister in February 2023.

JK Rowling has frequently criticised Ms Sturgeon over gender recognition reforms ( PA )

Following the proposed reforms in 2022, Ms Rowling wore a t-shirt calling Sturgeon a destroyer of womens rights. Ms Sturgeon later called for both sides of the debate to treat each other with respect.

In her book she recalled the incident, after which she received a barrage of abuse, writing: It was deeply ironic that those who subjected me to this level of hatred and misogynistic abuse often claimed to be doing so in the interests of womens safety.

They have clashed on a number of other occasions, including after the Supreme Court judgement in April that the legal definition of a woman refers to biological sex.

Ms Sturgeon refused to comment on the decision, with Ms Rowling later sharing a social media post including a photograph of the SNP leader in the gym branding her Pontius Pilates, an apparent biblical reference accusing her of shirking responsibility.

Speaking about the trans rights row that dominated her final few months in office in her memoir, Ms Sturgeon called it a time of division and rancour. She added that while she respected legitimate concerns about womens spaces, the debate had been hijacked by voices on the far right.

The inconvenient truth, she argued, is that many of the most vocal deriders of trans rights, when the surface is scratched, turn out to be raging homophobes too. Some are also racists. And ironically ... more than a few are also deeply misogynist.

However, she said she would have changed her approach to the issue with hindsight, and that while she still believes in the gender recognition reforms, she wishes she had aimed for more of a consensus on the issue.
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A section of one of the UKs busiest motorways is closed after a lorry caught fire and sent thick black smoke billowing into the sky.

The M25 between J30 Dartford and J29 Romford was shut down after a HGV carrying rubber car tyres burst into flames across four lanes of traffic on Wednesday afternoon.

Dramatic images showed towering flames and plumes of smoke above the stretch of motorway as firefighters rushed to tackle the blaze.

A diversion route has been created, with delays of at least one hour in the anti-clockwise direction. Plans are being put in place to allow vehicles caught within the closure to move away.

Dozens of firefighters from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are tackling the fire near the Thames crossing that connects Kent and Essex.

It said the tyres being carried by the lorry, which could be seen sprawled across the road, are alight and producing large amounts of smoke.

National Highways said: Due to the nature of the fire, it is still anticipated that the road will remain closed throughout the day, with resurfacing likely to be required.

The Dartford Crossing consists of a bridge and two tunnels connecting Thurrock in Essex with Dartford. Up to 180,000 vehicles use the crossing on its busiest days.
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Police forces have been told to share suspects ethnicity and nationality with the public after authorities were accused of covering up offences carried out by asylum seekers.

The interim guidance by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing, which comes after mounting pressure on police over the details they make public, said forces should consider disclosing the extra details about suspects charged in particularly high-profile and sensitive investigations.

But decisions on whether to release such information will remain with the forces themselves, the NPCC said.

It is hoped the change could combat misinformation spread on social media, after Merseyside Police was criticised for not revealing more about Axel Rudakubana when he was arrested on suspicion of murder after attacking a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport last July.

Within hours of the attack, posts spread on the internet claiming the suspect was a 17-year-old asylum seeker who had come to the country by boat in 2024.

open image in gallery Merseyside Police was criticised for not revealing more about Axel Rudakubana following the Southport attack ( PA )

In the first press conference after the event, at 6.30pm that day, Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy told journalists the suspect was originally from Cardiff.

But the police statement did little to quell the misinformation spreading online, and riots began across the country the next day.

In a separate incident, to suppress rumours that a car that had ploughed into a crowd of people during Liverpools Premier League victory parade in May was a terror attack, the force promptly revealed the ethnicity and nationality of a man they had arrested, who was white and British.

Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, said: We saw during last summers disorder, as well as in several recent high-profile cases, what the major, real-world consequences can be from what information police release into the public domain.

We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels.

Disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum. It is good police work for us to fill this vacuum with the facts about issues of wider public interest.

open image in gallery The scene in Liverpool where a car ploughed into crowds during Liverpool's Premier League trophy parade ( AFP via Getty )

There is nothing that bars police from sharing information about the nationality, asylum status or ethnicity of someone who has been charged with an offence in the College of Policings existing guidance on media relations.

Earlier this month, Warwickshire police and crime commissioner Philip Seccombe pressed the Home Secretary for an urgent update on the issue after the charging of two men  reported to be Afghan asylum seekers  prompted accusations that the force withheld information about their immigration status.

The force denied a cover-up after being criticised by Reform UK.

The new guidance, which comes into force immediately, was welcomed by police and crime commissioners.

Emily Spurrell of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners said: I am pleased the NPCC and College of Policing have recognised the need to update guidance for forces in the light of recent high-profile cases.

PCCs and Deputy Mayors act on behalf of the public and it is clear there was a need to review the guidance to address growing public concern.

We have seen the speed with which mis- or disinformation can spread online and the danger to public safety that can cause, so it is right police keep the public informed as far as is possible whilst preserving a suspects right to a fair trial.
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Keir Starmer will co-chair a meeting with pro-Ukraine allies on Wednesday.

It comes after a call with US President Donald Trump and European leaders about ending Ukraines war against Russia.

Sir Keir will join a virtual call at midday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

They will then be joined by Mr Trump and US vice president JD Vance.

Later, the Prime Minister will co-chair a Coalition of the Willing meeting to update wider partners on the days discussions.

The Coalition of the Willing is an international effort to support Ukraine towards a lasting peace, led by the UK, France and Ukraine.

It is made up of 31 countries that have pledged strengthened support for Kyiv, including 27 European countries, as well as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

Ahead of Wednesdays call, a Downing Street spokesperson said: The Prime Minister remains absolutely focused on a solution to this conflict grounded in Ukraines national interests.

He is determined to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, backed by robust and credible security guarantees that will deter Russia from threatening Ukraine in future.

This comes ahead of the expected meeting between Mr Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

The two leaders are set to meet to discuss the future of the Kremlins invasion, without the presence of Mr Zelensky.

The Ukrainian President said at a news briefing on Tuesday that Mr Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region that Kyiv controls as part of a ceasefire deal.

open image in gallery Starmer with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at 10 Downing Street ( Jeff Moore/PA )

This was conveyed to him by US officials, Mr Zelensky explained.

However, he reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls because it is unconstitutional and would only serve as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

Mr Trump has also signalled he thinks Ukraine might need to cede territory in order to end the conflict, stating there is likely to be some land-swapping going on.

Speaking during a lengthy press conference on Monday, Mr Trump pledged to try to get back some of Ukraines oceanfront property from Russia.

He said: Were going to change the lines, the battle lines. Russia has occupied a big portion of Ukraine. Theyve occupied some very prime territory. Were going to try and get some of that territory back for Ukraine.

They have taken largely  in real estate we call it oceanfront property. Thats always the most valuable property.

A statement released by the European Union on Tuesday read: A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future.

The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.

open image in gallery Trump is set to meet Putin on Friday ( AP )

Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities.

In response, Mr Zelensky said on X (formerly Twitter): I am grateful to the leaders of Europe for their clear support for our independence, territorial integrity, and precisely such an active approach to diplomacy that can help end this war with a dignified peace.

Indeed, We all support President Trumps determination, and together we must shape positions that will not allow Russia to deceive the world once again.

We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations.

In such circumstances, it is important that the unity of the world is not threatened.

As long as they continue the war and the occupation, all of us together must maintain our pressure  the pressure of strength, the pressure of sanctions, the pressure of diplomacy.
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A report from the US State Department, published during the Trump administration, has accused the UK of a concerning regression in human rights over the past year.

The annual assessment cited increased antisemitic violence and growing restrictions on free speech as key areas of concern.

The US State Departments global human rights analysis flagged what it described as "serious restrictions" on freedom of expression within the UK.

The report specifically highlighted laws limiting speech around abortion clinics, pointing to "safe access zones" that curbed expression, including silent protests and prayer.

"These restrictions on freedom of speech could include prohibitions on efforts to influence others when inside a restricted area, even through prayer or silent protests," the document stated.

While acknowledging that "the government sometimes took credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses," the report criticised that "prosecution and punishment for such abuses was inconsistent."

In the wake of the 2024 Southport attack, the assessment claimed that government officials "repeatedly intervened to chill speech."

Foreign Secretary David Lammy welcomes US vice president JD Vance ( Suzanne Plunkett/PA )

Criticism over the handling of free speech was also directed at the governments of Germany and France.

A UK government spokesperson told the BBC: Free speech is vital for democracy around the world, including here in the UK and we are proud to uphold freedoms whilst keeping our citizens safe.

Sentiments echoed those previously made by vice president JD Vance.

In February, Mr Vance criticised the UK over a legal case in which a former serviceman who silently prayed outside an abortion clinic was convicted of breaching the safe zone around the centre.

In a wider attack on what he suggested is a shift away from democratic values across Europe, Mr Vance claimed the basic liberties of religious Britons, in particular are under threat.

He referred to the conviction of Adam Smith-Connor, 51, who had denied doing so but was found guilty last year of failing to comply with a public space protection order at the centre in Bournemouth in November 2022.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Mr Vance said that the US very dear friends the United Kingdom appeared to have seen a backslide in conscience rights.

A little over two years ago, the British government charged Adam Smith-Connor, a 51-year-old physiotherapist and an Army veteran, with the heinous crime of standing 50 metres from an abortion clinic and silently praying for three minutes, not obstructing anyone, not interacting with anyone, just silently praying on his own, he said.

The report also said the Government effectively enforced laws around freedom of association and the rights of workers.

The UK Government has been contacted for comment.
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Rachel Reeves has been accused of coming for your familys future with a possible inheritance tax raid  but a former Treasury adviser has warned the changes still wont be enough to fill the 50bn black hole.

Officials are thought to be looking at scrapping the seven-year rule  which means that no tax is due on any gifts you give if you live for seven years after giving them  to help address the UKs multi-billion-pound shortfall left by Labour U-turns, higher borrowing and sluggish economic growth.

It comes just days after the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) piled pressure on the chancellor to come up with solutions ahead of her Budget in the autumn.

But Jonathan Portes, a former Treasury adviser and professor of economics and public policy at Kings College London who supports the idea of inheritance tax reform, told The Independent such changes would certainly not raise tens of billions of pounds, or anything like it.

open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly looking at altering inheritance tax laws ( PA )

Tory shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride accused Labour of punishing working families to fund their failure, while leading analysts at Hargreaves Lansdown warned Labour may come to regret making detailed changes to inheritance tax as it could hamper efforts to boost economic growth.

Inheritance tax is paid when a person's estate is worth more than 325,000 when they die and is seen by many as a form of wealth tax in all but name.

Under current UK rules, gifts made more than seven years before a persons death are exempt from inheritance tax.

Money given less than three years before is taxed at the full inheritance tax rate of 40 per cent, while gifts given between seven and three years have a taper relief tax, between 8 and 32 per cent.

While it is understood that no decisions have yet been taken, among the reported measures under consideration is a potential lifetime cap on gifts to limit the amount of money people can donate outside of inheritance tax, as well as reviewing rules around the taper rate, sources told The Guardian.

Responding to the reports, Mr Portes said: Inheritance tax certainly needs reform  it is too easy for very rich people with good tax advice to avoid, and it is welcome HMT [HM Treasury] is looking at this.

More broadly, we need to tax relatively well-off older people more  whether during their lifetimes and on death. However, HMT reform will certainly not raise tens of billions or anything like it.

Hitting out at the prospective measures, Sir Mel said Labour is coming for your familys future to fund their failure.

Those whove worked hard, saved responsibly and hope to leave something behind shouldnt be punished to pay for Labours economic black hole, he added.

Tax experts have also raised the alarm over the possible changes. With the government planning to levy inheritance tax on pensions from April 2027, Scott Gallacher, of wealth management firm Rowley Turton, warned that families with two children and an estate over 1m could be leaving more money to the chancellor than to either of their children.

The more children you have, the worse it looks. I recently told one client that, on his death, each of his four children would get just 15 per cent of his pension, while the chancellor would take 40 per cent, he said.

Meanwhile, Rob Mansfield, an independent financial advisor at Rootes Wealth Management, said it could put people off from saving into their pensions.

Its a double whammy if youre over the age of 75, as not only could you pay inheritance tax on the pension at 40 per cent, but the beneficiaries would then pay tax on any withdrawals at their marginal rates.

We need people to save more into their pensions, and taxing people for doing the right thing seems perverse.

open image in gallery Shadow chancellor Mel Stride took aim at reports of plans to reform inheritance tax ( PA )

Former chancellor and businessman Nadhim Zahawi also took aim at the idea, telling The Independent it could cause more wealthy individuals to leave the UK. He urged the Treasury to make further spending cuts rather than hiking taxes.

If the chancellor wants a sure-fire way to endanger Britains finances further, raising inheritance tax would be top of the list, he said.

As a businessman, I know that top talent is leaving or staying away because they dont want their lifes work stolen by a greedy government that wont wean itself off an addiction to wasting taxpayers money through excessive spending.

Meanwhile, Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, said reforms would need to be balanced against the fact that, at the moment, these gifts allow for money to pass through the generations  something which brings in taxes such as stamp duty and VAT when the money is spent.

They also feed more money into the economy and boost economic activity, she said, warning that a change in the rules could stymie this flow of cash, which could have an impact on growth.

An HM Treasury spokesperson said: As set out in the Plan for Change, the best way to strengthen public finances is by growing the economy, which is our focus. Changes to tax and spend policy are not the only ways of doing this, as seen with our planning reforms, which are expected to grow the economy by 6.8bn and cut borrowing by 3.4bn.

We are committed to keeping taxes for working people as low as possible, which is why at last Autumns Budget, we protected working peoples payslips and kept our promise not to raise the basic, higher or additional rates of income tax, employee national insurance, or VAT.
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US Vice President JD Vance is causing a stir as he holidays in the Cotswolds, as his huge security team and protests against his visit disrupt the quiet life of villagers.

Not only did his high-profile visit cause chaos at high-end Cotswolds farm-shop, Daylesford  owned by Tory donor Lady Bamford  the US vice president has also sparked rumours of tensions in the Tory party after choosing to meet with shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick instead of party leader Kemi Badenoch.

Days earlier, Mr Vance and his family started their UK getaway with David Lammy at Chevening, the foreign secretarys grace-and-favour country estate in Kent.

But Mr Jenrick isnt the only right-wing figure to be wined and dined by the Republican during his stay, with Mr Vance also having reportedly met with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for breakfast. Here, The Independent takes a look at all the right-wing figures Mr Vance has met with during his break.

open image in gallery JD Vance, Trumps vice president, is holidaying in the Cotswolds ( AFP/Getty )

Nigel Farage

JD Vance is said to have met Nigel Farage for breakfast on Wednesday morning, after hosting a barbecue the night before at the Grade II-listed manor house where he is staying in the tiny hamlet of Dean, near Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire.

The US vice president has taken a growing interest in Reform UK in recent months, with reports from July saying he had asked the UKs ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson: So whats going on with Reform? I see that theyre doing very well.

Mr Farage has always had a strong relationship with President Donald Trump  although it appears to have cooled this year, initially sparking speculation he may not end up meeting with Mr Vance.

open image in gallery His visit sparked protests in the Cotswolds ( Reuters )

Robert Jenrick

Mr Vance also met with Robert Jenrick - seen as a key challenger to Kemi Badenoch - during his holiday in the UK, inviting the shadow justice secretary to meet him before a drinks event on Tuesday.

While the invite sparked rumours Mr Vance had given Mrs Badenoch the cold shoulder, a Conservative spokesman said the party leaders team had spoken to Mr Vances but that scheduling had proved difficult for the pair to meet.

Taylor Van Kirk, Mr Vances press secretary, said the VP specifically tried to see Kemi Badenoch, a friend of his, but a meeting was not possible due to their conflicting schedules.

Former leadership contender Mr Jenrick has strayed well beyond his justice brief in recent months, building a prominent social media presence with campaigns on a range of issues, from the impact of immigration on housing to tackling fare-dodgers on the London Underground.

He and the vice-president have voiced similar concerns about the erosion of freedom of speech, as well as opposition to equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives.

open image in gallery Robert Jenrick met with Vance on Tuesday ( PA )

James Orr

James Orr  a Cambridge philosopher who has been influential in the growth of the national conservative movement in Britain  attended a barbecue hosted by Mr Vance at his Cotswolds holiday residence on Tuesday, alongside several other right-wing figures.

Mr Vance and Mr Orr became close friends in 2019, after the Republican politician converted to Catholicism, with the pair sharing an interest in faith and conservative politics.

We hit it off on long walks and exchanging ideas about the state of the world, Mr Orr told Politico last year.

The academic has sparked controversy for his views on LGBTQ+ issues and family life, previously claiming that sexual education in the UK had been outsourced to rainbow activists, who show children material too graphic to even publish in newspapers. He has also claimed that diversity in Britain is a debilitating weakness.

Thomas Skinner

Apprentice star Thomas Skinner also attended the barbecue alongside Mr Orr. The pair struck up an unlikely friendship after talking on the social media site X, and it culminated in Mr Skinner being invited to join Mr Vance at his holiday home in the Cotswolds.

Mr Vance previously backed Mr Skinner on X after the 34-year-old reality star claimed he had received death threats and vile comments about my children after he made a series of posts saying somethings gone wrong in the UK and there is nothing wrong with being proud of where youre from.

In separate posts, Mr Skinner argued it was not far-right to be flying your flag and loving your country.

On Tuesday evening, he shared a picture of himself and Mr Vance after the barbecue, saying: Cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his friends and family. Once in a lifetime.

open image in gallery Thomas Skinner posted a photo to social media after the event ( Thomas Skinner/X )

Danny Kruger

Tory MP Danny Kruger was also on the guest list for Tuesdays barbecue, an MP who has been a strong proponent of traditional family values. He sparked controversy in 2022 after saying women shouldnt have an absolute right to bodily autonomy when it comes to abortion in a debate about female reproductive rights in the United States.

He also told a conservative conference in 2023 that marriages between men and women were "the only possible basis for a safe and successful society". They prompted then-prime minister Rishi Sunak to distance himself from the comments amid concern over their implications for LGBTQ+ people.
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A Labour peer has warned that the governments ban on Palestine Action is at risk of becoming an I am Spartacus moment, suggesting the decision to proscribe the group as a terrorist organisation was disproportionate.

Shami Chakrabarti, a former shadow attorney general and civil liberties campaigner, urged the government to think again, warning that the groups ban may lead to more people, not fewer, taking to the streets to support it.

She said her concerns are greater now even than they were before after more than 500 people were arrested over the weekend, demonstrating in support of the group.

open image in gallery Baroness Shami Chakrabarti has said banning Palestine Action may be an escalation too far ( PA )

An "I Am Spartacus" moment  from the 1960 film, Spartacus - refers to a situation where a group of people collectively claim to be one person, often in solidarity or defiance, to protect that individual or to confuse an authority figure.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Sunday that 532 arrests were made, 522 for displaying an item in support of a proscribed organisation at the march in central London over the weekend.

Asked whether the government had got it wrong on the issue, Baroness Chakrabarti told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I'm afraid that my concerns are greater now even than they were before. This is in danger of becoming a sort of I am Spartacus moment where more people, not fewer people, are taking to the streets.

She added: There are blurred lines now some people are, as always, protesting about the horrific events they're watching unfold in Gaza, but others think they're standing up for civil liberties because this ban was disproportionate.

The Labour peer warned that even criminal damage is not terrorism.

Spraying paint on airplanes, which is a serious criminal damage, is not the same as being the IRA or al Qaeda or a group that actually wants to blow people up.

And so we've got more people taking to the streets, a bigger headache for the police. Frankly, I'm very sympathetic to the police on this issue. I think it may be time to think again.

It comes just days after she told The Independent that the proscription of Palestine Action is in danger of becoming a mistake of poll tax proportions  a reference to Margaret Thatchers unpopular policy that triggered civil disobedience and riots.

The group hit the headlines earlier this year when four members were accused of causing around 7m worth of damage to aircraft at RAF Brize Norton.

The mass detention of protesters on Saturday is thought to be the highest number of arrests made by the Metropolitan Police in a single protest event since the poll tax riot of 31 March 1990.

Earlier this week, MPs from across the political divide warned of an excessive use of counterterrorism powers that was riding roughshod over the right to peaceful protest, after it emerged that many of those held were aged over 60.

Meanwhile, civil liberties groups, including Amnesty and Libert,y said the arrests were disproportionate to the point of absurdity and that the governments terrorism laws were a threat to freedom of expression.

Former Labour cabinet minister Peter Hain described the mass arrests as madness, saying Palestine Action was not equivalent to real terrorist groups like al-Qaeda or Islamic State.

Lord Hain, who led the anti-apartheid movement and the Anti-Nazi League in Britain during the 1970s and 1980s, went on to warn that the ban will end in tears for the government.

open image in gallery Some 522 people were held for displaying an item in support of a proscribed organisation ( PA )

We are seeing retired magistrates, retired and serving doctors and all sorts of people being arrested and now effectively being equated with terrorists such as al-Qaida, which is absolutely wrong, he said.

Its going to get worse [for the government] because I dont see people from that middle Britain background who have joined these protests in such large numbers to suddenly decide that all is OK.

But home secretary Yvette Cooper defended the police and suggested those who were arrested may not know the full nature of this organisation.

After the arrests, Downing Street defended the move to ban the group, saying it was violent, had committed significant injury as well as criminal damage, and that the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre had found the organisation had carried out three separate acts of terrorism.

Weve said that many people may not yet know the reality of this organisation, but the assessments are very clear: this is a violent organisation that has committed violence, significant injury and extensive criminal damage, Sir Keir Starmers spokesman said on Monday.
Most sources suggest that Britain, in terms of CCTV cameras and coverage per head in cities, is one of the most surveilled nations in the world, albeit coming some way behind China, where it seems to be even more routine.

The trend towards snooping on British folk seems to be accelerating. More live facial recognition vans are to be deployed across seven police forces in England in a mass-surveillance trial. The aim is to identify and locate suspects in some of the crimes that most worry the public, such as sexual offences, violent assaults and murder. Ticket touts are also targets.

Crime is a major concern among voters, but so are their civil liberties...

How will it work?

Quite passively, as has been the case for some years. Just like in films, the police can place vans in crowded places such as high streets and automatically scan the faces of people walking past, checking them against a databank of images of wanted people. If it relies on busy officers spooling through hours of footage, it might not always be worth the effort; they have enough trouble at present trying to find shoplifters.

Does it work?

Yes. There have been many successes over the years, though it obviously works best in the big cities, where it operates like a fishing boat trawling for a catch. Ministers say that in London over the past year, facial recognition technology has helped to secure 580 arrests, including the detention of 52 registered sex offenders who breached their conditions.

At a time of shrivelled police budgets, a shortage of officers and concerns about lawless Britain (it isnt, by the way), facial recognition harnessed to AI could transform police productivity  and cut crime. It could quite conceivably lower the risk of mass murder through terrorism, for example, which tends to take place in urban centres.

Win-win?

Not quite. There are practical problems. The software can make mistakes, leading to embarrassment for innocent parties. Twins dont like it, for obvious reasons. The system cant work if people change their appearance or wear a face-covering, and if villains steer clear of the big cities. People wearing face-coverings for religious or health reasons could be stigmatised as camera dodgers.

What about the human right to a private life?

Quite. One glaring issue is that there is no legislation covering this area of police work, and no national debate has taken place about the creeping ubiquity of various types of surveillance  online as well as on the streets. Parliament does need to create some kind of framework, and one that is consistent with existing laws and international commitments on human rights.

So are we becoming a big brother society?

With 5 million CCTV cameras, plus an unknown number in offices, plus dashcams in cars and doorbell cameras, the British can hardly cough without it being captured in high definition. Civil liberties groups claim that the UK is becoming a big brother society, a surveillance state where privacy is at risk.

Theres certainly the possibility of a Coldplay moment, where someone having an affair is caught on camera and the evidence finds its way into the public domain. Former health secretary Matt Hancock springs to mind. Plenty more risks like that...

What does the government say?

Dame Diana Johnson, the minister responsible, pleads that it is a powerful tool for policing and will only be used in a very measured, proportionate way to find individuals suspected of serious offences.

But theres dissent. Shami Chakrabarti, who served as shadow attorney general under Jeremy Corbyn, says the technology is incredibly intrusive, remarking: Some would say this is yet another move towards a total surveillance society. Some would indeed.

And the opposition?

Well, the present shadow home secretary, Chris Philp, in his role as a Home Office minister a few years ago, oversaw a substantial increase in CCTV use. In October 2023, for example, he suggested that police force leaders in England and Wales should aim to exceed 200,000 searches of still images against the police national database.

Predictably, Nigel Farage, despite his summer crime campaign (to clarify, a campaign against crime), simply declared that he doesnt want to live in China.

Will it happen?

Yes. We havent got enough coppers, or money, to avoid it and also cut crime.
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Shopkeepers should not place high value items close to store entrances because obviously people will nick, a Labour minister has told shopkeepers.

It comes after new figures showed that shoplifting is at a record high, with retailers accusing police of not doing enough to tackle the problem.

Asked about the issue, policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said expensive items such as alcohol should not be displayed at the front of stores and said shopkeepers needed to do more to deter shoplifters.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4s Today programme, Dame Diana said: I think stores need to play their part in making sure that items that are high value are not at the front of the store because that is an issue in some stores, that they put bottles of alcohol at the front of the store, which obviously people will nick.

If they are going to steal to resell, they will nick items like that. So I think it is not just one thing here, it has to be an approach with the retailers, with the government and with the police to work together.

open image in gallery Home Office minister Dame Diana Johnson ( PA )

But she warned members of the public against confronting shoplifters, after Tory Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley Matthew Barber claimed people had a duty to stand up to shoplifters rather than relying solely on police officers.

I would not advise people to tackle an individual who was stealing. I came across someone stealing in a store in Hull.

I went straight to the assistant to tell them what was happening. I felt that was the best thing to do.

Obviously, it is a judgment for individuals to take, but I am worried about people feeling they need to have a go. I dont think that is appropriate, she said.

Shoplifting hit a record high in 2024, with the number of offences surpassing 500,000 for the first time.

Some 530,643 offences were recorded by forces in England and Wales in 2024/25 - up 20 per cent from 444,022 in 2023/24 and is the highest total since current police recording practices began in 2002/03.

Offences involving theft from the person have also remained at record levels. Some 151,220 of these offences were recorded by forces in the year to March, up 15 per cent from 131,584 in the previous 12 months  again, the highest since the current recording began in 2002/03.

Speaking on Wednesday, Richard Walker, the executive chairman of supermarket chain Iceland, argued that shoplifting is getting worse because offenders appeared to be able to act with impunity.

open image in gallery Shoplifters brazenly steal from pharmacies in shocking CCTV as chemists this week warned of a surge in thefts ( National Pharmacy Association )

We now have over 1,000 serious incidents a year, serious incidents being marauding gangs, violent assaults, needles, knives, hammers, you name it, he told the Today programme.

I go through our weekly serious incidents report every Monday morning, and it is clear that firstly, there is now no area of the country unaffected by this issue, it happens everywhere from small market towns through to big inner cities.

But secondly, and importantly, there is an impunity, an increasing level of violence that is caused by a lack of deterrent.

Responding to his remarks, Dame Diana said: I think he does actually have a point, and that's why we're investing into neighbourhood policing, because we know a police deterrent in our town centres and in our high streets is really important in starting to tackle shop theft and anti-social behaviour.

We're bringing forward legislation to make it a specific offence to assault a retail worker, and we're getting rid of what the previous government brought in, which was this sort of 200 limit. If you stole below 200, the case wouldn't necessarily be proceeded with.

We want to make clear, if you steal, that is a criminal offence, whether it's 5 or 500, pounds.

On Wednesday, the government announced an expansion of the use of facial recognition technology in an attempt to tackle crime.

Seven English forces will have access to 10 vans equipped with cameras across Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Thames Valley and Hampshire, following recent deployments by Londons Met Police and South Wales Police.

Dame Diana said she believes the public would back the polices use of live facial recognition cameras, if they are used in a very measured, proportionate way to go after suspects who officers are looking for.

But Labour peer Baroness Shami Chakrabarti alleged that the technology had been developed pretty much completely outside the law, and voiced fears that the governments plan is yet another move towards a total surveillance society.
Photo: National Guard

Air defenses eliminated 32 of 49 enemy drones at night, as well as two Iskander ballistic missiles, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has said.

"According to preliminary data, as of 08:00, air defenses shot down/suppressed 34 targets: 2 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles and 32 enemy Shahed UAVs and drone simulators of various types in the north and east of the country," the report said.

As reported, on the night of August 13 (from 21:00 on August 12), the enemy attacked with 49 Shahed attack UAVs and drone simulators of various types from the directions: Kursk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Shatalovo - Russian Federation, as well as two Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles from the Kursk region, Russian Federation.

The Donetsk, Sumy and Chernihiv regions were attacked with strike UAVs, and the Poltava region with missiles.

The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces of Ukraine.
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Hundreds of residents in Alaskas capital of Juneau have been urged to evacuate over an imminent glacial flood threat.

On Tuesday, Juneau officials said on Facebook that there was a glacial outburst at Suicide Basin, a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier above Juneau, according to the National Weather Service.

As the Mendenhall Glacier recedes in a warming climate, the basin has released glacier lake outburst floods that have caused an overflow of water along Mendenhall Lake and River every year since 2011.

The basin is releasing and flooding is expected along Mendenhall Lake and River late Tuesday through Wednesday, Juneau officials wrote in Tuesdays post. Residents are advised to evacuate the potential flood inundation area.

The Anchorage Daily News reported that more than 1,000 residents and businesses were placed under the evacuation alert.

open image in gallery Hundreds of residents in Alaskas capital of Juneau have been urged to evacuate over an imminent glacial flood threat ( Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News via AP )

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning until Thursday at 8 a.m. local time. The Mendenhall River is currently at 9.85 feet, and the major flood stage for the river is 14 feet. The service warned the river will crest at 16.6 feet at around 4 p.m. Wednesday.

This forecasted flooding could break a record, which was set when the Mendenhall River crested at 15.99 feet in August 2024.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has issued a disaster declaration in response to the imminent glacial flood threat.

By issuing this declaration before the flood occurs, we can position state resources and personnel in advance to support local and tribal governments in their efforts to protect lives, homes, and essential services, Dunleavy said in a statement. Our goal is to act early to reduce impacts and preserve community safety.

open image in gallery A side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier has caused floods every year since 2011, but recently these weather events have gotten more intense ( Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News via AP )

The imminent record-breaking flood this summer follows two years of severe flooding, according to a press release from Alaskas Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, which announced Dunleavys declaration.

After last years devastating flooding, which damaged homes and public infrastructure, two miles of flood control barriers along the Mendenhall River were installed.

I really do feel like we are prepared this year, Juneau Manager Katie Koester told The Washington Post. Im really hoping that well have a success story by Thursday.
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Con artist Anna Sorokin claims shes received hundreds of death threats after she was accused of abandoning bunnies she posed with during a photoshoot in New York.

The 34-year-old so-called fake heiress, who was convicted of grand larceny in 2019 for defrauding banks, hotels, and her friends out of hundreds of thousands of dollars, posted photos to her Instagram account last week capturing her posing in the Big Apple with two bunnies on red leashes.

Someone later reported seeing the same rabbits roaming in Brooklyns Prospect Park. Since posting the photos on her account, which boasts 1.1 million followers, Sorokin said shes been bombarded with death threats. She claims to have had nothing to do with the logistics of the photoshoot.

I am deeply alarmed by the death threats and hundreds of vile, harassing messages flooding my social media, she wrote in a statement on Instagram Tuesday.

The Independent has asked the NYPD if Sorokin has informed police about the alleged death threats.

open image in gallery Con artist Anna Sorokin claimed shes been receiving death threats after being accused of abandoning bunnies in a New York park following a photoshoot ( Getty Images )

Sorokin posted a series of photos and videos last week from the photoshoot. Dressed in a blue mini dress and matching heels  an ensemble that allowed her ankle monitor to be on full display  Sorokin holds her long blonde locks in one hand and holds the red bunny leashes with the other outside a Subway station in downtown Manhattan.

Sorokin served almost four years in prison over duping Manhattans elite and spent another 18 months in immigration detention for overstaying her U.S. visa. She is now required to wear an ankle monitor as part of the terms of her house arrest.

open image in gallery Fake German heiress Anna Sorokin after being sentenced in Manhattan Supreme Court May 9, 2019 following her conviction ( AFP via Getty Images )

Terry Chao, a blogger, saw one of the rabbits in Prospect Park hiding in a bush, the New York Times reported. She told the outlet that she had recognized the bunny from a Facebook group, where some bunnies had recently been listed for adoption.

They went and got those bunnies for the shoot, basically as props, and then dumped them, Chao told the paper. They dont have any survival mechanisms like wild rabbits do.

Sorokin shared screenshots from a text exchange that suggest a person named Christian Batty ditched the rabbits in the park. The Independent has made attempts to contact Batty.

Chao said in an Instagram statement that Batty had reached out to her before the photoshoot to scout for bunnies. He later showed up and helped her rescue a bunny from the shoot, she said.

Batty apologized in a since-deleted Instagram post, which was reposted by Sorokin and Chao.

When I realized the rabbits were being surrendered to me, I panicked, the post read. At 19, with no experience caring for animals, no pet-friendly housing, and no knowledge of available resources, I felt overwhelmed and made the worst possible choice. Believing, mistakenly, that there were existing rabbits in that area, I released them there, thinking that was my best option.

open image in gallery Sorokin said she had nothing to do with the planning of the photoshoot and denied dumping the bunnies ( Getty Images )

Sorokin said she had nothing to do with the planning of the photoshoot.

She said she had agreed to pose for the photographer, Jasper Egan Soloff. His lawyer disputed Sorokins claims.

This was not Jaspers photo shoot, and he did not arrange any of the details surrounding it, he told the NYT, noting his client had been hired to take photos of Sorokin. Jasper had no knowledge or input as to how the bunnies were obtained or what happened to them after the photo shoot.

In a statement on Instagram on Tuesday, Sorokin said she donated $1,000 to the nonprofit All About Rabbits Rescue.

The nonprofit confirmed Tuesday evening toThe Independent that it had received Sorokins donation.
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Los Angeles city schools are ready with unprecedented protections to keep federal immigration authorities away as students return to the classroom.

School police, other officers and volunteer scouts will patrol some 100 schools that are part of the nations second-largest school system in hopes of keeping the districts 400,000 students  and their families  out of reach from ICE.

"Our young people are going through this unnecessary trauma, which should not interfere with their education, Mayor Karen Bass said.

Officers, both employed by the schools and surrounding municipalities, will establish safe zones in neighborhoods with a large Latino population, focusing specifically on watching out for older students who walk to class, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Bus routes have also been altered to help immigrant families avoid ICE agents during their commute, officials said.

Additionally, community volunteers will take on the role of scouts, alerting schools to nearby ICE agents so they can take necessary precautions, including potentially locking down the campus.

open image in gallery Los Angeles school students are set to return from summer as district officials prep for ways to protect their campuses from ICE agents and raids. ( Getty Images )

The initiatives, a collaboration between city and school officials, come at what Bass described as a profound moment in American history. Other programs the district is taking include coordinating food aid for families in hiding, providing information about online schooling options and distributing a family preparedness guide detailing their rights.

L.A. schools superintendent Alberto Carvalho, once an undocumented immigrant himself, said the district will oppose any entity, at any level, that seeks to interfere with the educational process of our children.

"We want no one to stay home as a result of fears," Carvalho said.

We are standing on the right side of the Constitution, and years from now, I guarantee you, we will have stood on the right side of history. We know that, he said.

Officials worries are not unfounded. On Monday, a 15-year-old boy with disabilities was handcuffed outside Arleta High School. Federal agents drew their guns on the teen, who was later released after his relatives convinced federal agents he was not who they were looking for.

A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection told the Times that the school was not being targeted; rather, agents believed they were going after a criminal illegal alien and suspected MS-13 gang member.

open image in gallery Large-scale protests began in Los Angeles this summer after ICE agents raided workplaces in the city. ( Anadolu/Getty )

The 2024-2025 school year ended in L.A. as immigration raids targeting workplaces broke out across the city.

The raids left parents scrambling to check apps dedicated to tracking ICE activity during important moments, such as their childrens graduation ceremony, the Los Angeles Times reported at the time.

Agents have also targeted homes with children who attend L.A. County schools. Mary, a mother of three without legal status, said she knew what to do when ICE agents came to her door twice in May because of what she learned from her local public school.

ICE agents  often dressed in plainclothes and driving unmarked vehicles  raided L.A. County businesses and homes this past June, and were often spotted near schools, too, sparking widespread panic and disruption of daily life.

The raids led to massive protests and prompted President Donald Trump to deploy 700 U.S. Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops to try and bring order to the city. It was the first time the National Guard had been ordered by the president, not the state, since 1965.

That escalation led to over 2,000 No Kings protests against the Trump administrations policies in all 50 states, from California to Maine. The demonstrations coincided with a D.C. parade for the U.S. Armys 250th anniversary, which critics blasted as just an extravagant birthday party for Trump.

While litigation, including a temporary restraining order, appears to have slowed down immigration raids in L.A., local leaders believe they havent stopped completely.
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Right-wing influencer Laura Loomer has claimed GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene is corrupt in the latest escalation of their online feud.

The feud between the two staunch supporters of President Donald Trumps Make America Great Again movement started over disagreements about the Trump administration's continued support for Israels war in Gaza.

Loomer, who is Jewish, is a strong supporter of Israel, and Greene has been outspoken about the U.S. not intervening in foreign wars. Greene has called Israels war in Gaza a genocide.

Their quarrel took an explosive turn after Loomer accused Greene of cheating on her ex-husband like a whore, and now she is claiming the congresswoman is funneling campaign money to one of her daughters.

open image in gallery GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, left, was accused of being corrupt by right-wing influencer Laura Loomer, right, in the latest escalation of their online feud ( Anna Moneymaker/David Dee Delgado/Getty Images )

Loomer wrote on X Tuesday afternoon, citing Federal Election Commission data, Greene is using her campaign fundraising to enrich her daughter Taylor Greene Robinson, who she has funneled over $113,279.09 in staff payroll from her campaign funds since March of 2024 even though the daughter lives out of state in Yoakum, Texas.

The Independent has reached out to Greenes office for comment.

The feud intensified Monday after Greene suggested Loomer is bankrolled by Israeli intelligence.

open image in gallery Loomer, who is Jewish, is a strong supporter of Israel, and Greene has been outspoken about the U.S. not intervening in foreign wars. ( Getty Images )

Greene wrote on X, She is not MAGA, she is MIGA, referring to the slogan Make Israel Great Again, adding, Many people are asking who or what government or what intelligence agency has bankrolled, the twice failed Congressional candidate, Laura Loomer all these years? 

Loomer wrote in response: Just because you are consumed by your rage and jealousy doesnt mean you get to go around lying accusing private citizens of being intelligence agents.

I ran for Congress as a grassroots candidate and fundraised every penny I raised by myself by campaigning 18 hours a day and knocking on over 100,000 doors while being banned on every social media site. 

open image in gallery The feud between Greene, pictured, and Loomer started over disagreements about the Trump administration's continued support for Israels war in Gaza ( Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images )

In the same post, she took several blistering personal jabs: You ruined your entire family by cheating on your husband with a sex guru, and for the last 4 months, you have been doing nothing but spewing lies about the Trump admin because you dont get enough attention from the Trump admin, adding, You call yourself a Christian while you wreck your marriage like a whore.

In February 2021, the Daily Mail came out with a report, claiming Greene cheated on her husband with a sex guru and a gym manager. Greene called the story ridiculous tabloid garbage.

Greene wrote on X later Monday: Laura Loomer viciously attacks and lies about those of us who are President Trumps most loyal original MAGA supporters.

Greene added, Laura Loomer is the most unstable person and worst liability to ever walk in the Oval Office.
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The family of a teenage sailor in the U.S. Navy have paid tribute after he was declared lost at sea.

Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV was serving on the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and is believed to have gone overboard after he went missing on July 28.

Officials scaled roughly 2,200 square miles in the Timor Sea off the coast of Australia for nearly two days in a desperate search for the 19 year-old. The search for the mariner involved a cooperative effort with helicopters, a destroyer, numerous aircraft, and patrol boats  all deployed by the U.S. Navy as well as Australian Defence and Border Force officials. His body has not been found.

open image in gallery Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV has been declared lost at sea ( Facebook )

Rivera Lynch, who served as Aviation Boatswains Mate, was responsible for launch and recovery equipment, enlisted in the Navy in June last year and reported to the George Washington in January.

His grieving family have launched a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral service.

Jose was more than a sailor  he was a loving son, a cherished brother, and a loyal friend whose laughter and light touched everyone around him, his family wrote. His sudden loss has left our family heartbroken and navigating the unimaginable grief of losing someone so young and full of promise.

Just 12 hours before he was reported missing, Rivera Lynch had spoken to his parents.

We noticed the tiredness, we noticed that, and then he said, I love you guys,  the sailors father Juan Antonio Rivera III told News4Jax. I said, Youre the best of me. Youve been to places Ive never been, and we are so proud of you.

That was the last thing I said to my son.

open image in gallery The U.S. Navy believes Rivera Lynch fell overboard on July 28 ( AFP/Getty )

Rivera Lynch followed the footsteps of his sister, father, and grandfather, who all served in the military.

At just 19 years old, Jose faithfully served his country with honor, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others, his family wrote.

The U.S. Navy also paid tribute to the young seaman.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of our shipmate, Airman Rivera Lynch, said Capt. Tim Waits, commanding officer, USS George Washington. I am sincerely grateful for the support and coordination from all units who assisted in the search effort, including our partners from the Australian Defence Force and Border Force.

The sailors family held a memorial earlier this month, and he will be honored during a funeral and memorial service by the U.S. Navy in September in Yokosuka, Japan, reports The Post.
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Tennessee authorities are looking for a man suspected of dragging an elderly womans dog out of her trailer and shooting it dead, just hours after the dog got into a fight with another animal.

Detectives have issued an arrest warrant for Gavin Palpallatoc after he allegedly barged into the home of a terminally ill, 78-year-old woman at the Redwood Estates mobile home park, in Memphis, on Friday.

The 31-year-old is now wanted for aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated cruelty to animals and aggravated abuse of a vulnerable adult, according to a release from Memphis police.

Palpallatoc was allegedly instructed to kill the dog by his friend Jane Reynolds, 52, who has also been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.

Detectives have issued an arrest warrant for Gavin Palpallatoc after he barged into the home of a terminally ill, 78-year-old woman at the Redwood Estates mobile home park, in Memphis. Palpallatoc allegedly shot the elderly womans dog ( Google Maps )

According to Memphis police, Reynolds said two animals had gotten into a small fight earlier that day in the elderly woman's backyard.

The owner of the deceased dog wished to remain anonymous but said Reynolds called her after the fight and told her "I'm gonna call my friend to come put that dog down." She also showed officers text messages between her and Reynolds, who had told her "I can't stop whatever is going to happen. I'm sorry."

Later on, Palpallatoc entered her home and took her dog, a Pit Bull mix named Cash.

"We were sitting on the couch just watching TV, and this guy comes in and pulls him from my couch to the floor, to the porch," the woman said, adding that she had heard at least 12 gunshots, before Palpallatoc fled the scene.

"He emptied the clip," she told police. "Something has got to be missing somewhere for him to come and kill that dog."

A witness told police that she heard the gunfire and saw suspect Palpallatoc walking towards Reynolds with a gun by his side. He later drove from the scene in a green Honda CRV.

According to WREG, the dog's owner is battling terminal cancer and adopted Cash  a stray  five years ago, after he wandered into the mobile home park.

"We got a good dog," she told the outlet. "He was my life.

"I was trying to rehome him and anything I could do and keep him with me as long as I could, and I had really been suffering over that and the fact that what if I go before he goes, what's going to happen."
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Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will sit face-to-face for the first time in seven years on Friday for talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.

The Russian president will fly into Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, where he will meet his US counterpart at a remote military installation which plays host to some of Americas most fearsome fighter jets. It has been visited by several US presidents in the past.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaskas largest military base, combines the Air Forces Elmendorf base with the US Armys Fort Richardson.

open image in gallery Donald Trump at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson during a refuelling stop in May 2019 ( AP )

Though Kyiv and its European allies will hope that the talks lead to a breakthrough in ending the conflict, there are fears that the US president will propose that Ukraine cedes part of its territory to Russia as part of a peace deal  despite Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky not being present at the summit.

What do we know about Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson?

The mission of the base is to defend US interests in the Asia-Pacific region. It had strategic importance during the Cold War as the closest point between Alaska and Russia, lying just 4.8km (3 miles) apart.

It is home to more than 32,000 people; roughly 10 per cent of Anchorages population.

open image in gallery Anchorage is the most populous city in Alaska with about 290,000 residents ( Getty )

According to the Library of Congress, it was regarded as "particularly important" in defending the US against the former Soviet Union.

Elmendorf-Richardson is also situated in a historically significant area for Russia. In 1867, the Russian Empire sold Alaska to the US.

There are concerns that the Russian president may invoke the sale of Alaska to prove his belief that land can be exchanged and partitioned by the worlds great powers.

open image in gallery Staff members for former US secretary of state John Kerry walk to his plane after a refueling stop at Elmendorf Air Force Base in 2014 ( AFP/Getty )

"It's easy to imagine Putin making the argument during his meetings with Trump that, 'Well, look, territories can change hands,'" Nigel Gould-Davies, former British ambassador to Belarus, said according to Sky News.

"'We gave you Alaska. Why can't Ukraine give us a part of its territory?'"

Who has visited in the past?

The military base has received a number of visits from multiple presidents in the 21st century.

It is Trumps first visit to Alaska since his second term began in January 2025, but during his first term he made a number of visits to Elmendorf-Richardson.

open image in gallery F-22 Raptors fly a training mission near Elmendorf Air Force Base ( US Air Force )

Barack Obama visited in 2015 and during a three-day stay he became the first US president to set foot north of the Arctic Circle.

In 2023 Joe Biden visited the base for a remembrance ceremony for the 9/11 terrorist attack in 2001.
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Californias Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is earning plaudits for his recent trolling of President Donald Trump by mimicking his social media habits, including all-caps posts.

Newsom, a frequent foil for the presidents social media outbursts, took to X Tuesday night to blast DONALD TACO Trump, -- a reference to Trump Always Chickens Out, coined by a financial columnist over the presidents back-and-forth tariff policies.

Trump has been pushing several red states to gerrymander their congressional maps to give Republicans an upper hand, amid growing fears that the GOP could lose the House in next years midterms. The maps are typically redrawn every ten years following the census, and not in the middle of the decade.

Newsom sent Trump a letter Monday calling on him to end the unprecedented, mid-decade, hyper-partisan gerrymander to rig the upcoming midterm elections.

If you will not stand down, I will be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states, he wrote. But if the other states call off their redistricting efforts, we will happily do the same. And American democracy will be better for it.

open image in gallery Newsom threatened to redraw Californias congressional maps unless Trump calls on Republicans to back off their redistricting efforts ( AP )

Newsom subsequently posted on X that Trump had 24 hours to respond to the letter.

On Tuesday, as the deadline passed, he wrote: DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!).

BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA, he added. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!

Sports reporter Emily Bicks wrote on Threads: Gavin Christopher Newsom keepin the no f***s energy comin.

Liberal social media commentator, Harry Sisson, wrote: I absolutely love how Gavin Newsom is treating Donald Trump with the disdain and disrespect that he absolutely deserves.

open image in gallery Newsom has been praised by some on social media for how hes taking on the president amid the fight over gerrymandering ( AP )

Journalist Karly Kingsley added: I dont think were giving Gavin Newsom enough credit for what hes doing to defend democracy and to stop a wannabe dictator from consolidating power.

Attorney and Never Trump-er George Conway joined the presidential mockery, writing in response to Newsom: Many people, big strong men with tears in their eyes, will soon be saying, Sir, you have the most Amazing State, with the Most Beautiful Maps. No one has ever seen anything like this. Your Excellency, Sir, we are in awe of your Incomparable Gubernatorialicityness.

But not all were on board with Newsoms style change. The Chief Strategy and Public Affairs Officer at Future Caucus, an organization for young lawmakers, Reed Howard, wrote: Race-to-the-bottom politics is a darn shame. America deserves better than this. I want real leadership.

Reporter Alex Gault added: If this becomes a lasting approach to political communications, I will be committing myself to whatever mental hospital still does lobotomies.

Last month, Trump asked Texas to redraw its maps to hand Republicans another five House seats in the state. Texas Democrats left the state to deny Republicans the ability to move forward with their proposal. Democrats then said they would look to redraw maps in blue states such as Illinois, California, and New York, prompting Republicans to consider taking action in Ohio and Indiana.

California has an independent commission that draws political maps, and if Newsom moves ahead with his threat, he would need passage of a special ballot in November.
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Two days after he twice said he was 'going to Russia' for his Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump used a Soviet-era name to describe Russias second-largest city as he attacked a former adviser on social media.

Writing on Truth Social to complain about very unfair media coverage of his upcoming summit with the Russian president, he said the press would even go so far to say hed made a bad deal even if he reached an agreement for the United States to acquire Moscow and Leningrad without giving up anything in return.

The president appeared to be unaware of one small detail: The city he called Leningrad is actually called St. Petersburg and has been since city residents voted to ditch the Soviet-era name in June 1991.

It was the second embarrassing geographic mix-up in three days for Trump, who on Monday also appeared to forget that the site of his sit-down with Putin (a former deputy mayor of St. Petersburg) is happening on sovereign American territory in the state of Alaska.

During a press conference on Monday, he claimed he was going to Russia to meet Putin even though Alaska has been American territory since the United States purchased the vast area from Czar Alexander II of the Russian Empire for the modest sum of $7.2 million. It became the USs 49th state in 1959.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is set to meet with President Donald Trump in Alaska Friday, was formerly the deputy mayor of St. Petersburg, once known as Leningrad. ( REUTERS )

As he addressed reporters regarding crime in Washington, DC and his plans to deploy the National Guard and put the citys police under his control, Trump said: You know, Im going to see Putin. Im going to Russia on Friday. He repeated the gaffe later in the same briefing.

He is set to meet with the Russian president to discuss bringing an end to the war in Ukraine that Russia initiated when it invaded the sovereign nation in February 2022.

The highly anticipated meeting between myself, as President of the United States of America, and President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska, Trump posted last week on Truth Social.

Ahead of the meeting, the White House is acknowledging that his upcoming summit isnt likely to result in a ceasefire.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked about the apparent Alaska-Russia gaffe at a briefing with reporters on Tuesday and largely brushed it off.

"The president said on the podium yesterday, twice, that he was planning to go to Russia," a reporter asked her. "Was that a verbal slip-up or does he actually plan to go to Russia?"

"Perhaps there are plans in the future to travel to Russia and on Friday the president will be meeting with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, in Alaska, as you know," Leavitt responded.

She also appeared to lower expectations when she was asked about Trumps outlook on the sit-down, calling it a listening exercise for the President and acknowledging that Zelenskys absence would make it difficult if not impossible for any real solution to the conflict to emerge from the bilateral talks.

Look, only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present, and so this is for the President to go and to get ... a more firm and better understanding of of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end, she said.

The President inherited this conflict, and he is determined to end it. And it's a very complex and complicated situation.
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Donald Trump claimed that he would know in the first two minutes of his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin if a peace deal could be reached between Russia and Ukraine.

Were going to have a meeting with Vladimir Putin, and at the end of that meeting, probably in the first two minutes, Ill know exactly whether or not a deal can be made, the president told reporters at a press conference Monday.

Asked how he would know, the president replied: Because that's what I do. I make deals.

However, Trump later appeared to contradict himself, after saying that it was not up to him if a deal was made or not. Im not going to make a deal. Its not up to me to make a deal. I think a deal should be made for both, he said.

The president is set to meet with the Russian president Friday in Alaska for the highly anticipated meeting, during which the pair will discuss bringing an end to the conflict that has raged since the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces in February 2022.

open image in gallery The president is set to meet with the Russian president Friday in Alaska for the highly anticipated meeting, during which the pair will discuss bringing an end to the conflict that has raged since the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces in February 2022. ( AP )

Trump briefly appeared to forget the location of the meeting, telling reporters at the press conference that he would be travelling to Russia for the meeting, instead of The Last Frontier.

He added that Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky could attend the bilateral, but also appeared to question if it would help a deal be reached.

He wasnt a part of it, Trump said, speaking about the setting up of the talks. I would say he could go, but hes been to a lot of meetings. You know, hes been there for three and a half years. Nothing happened.

He added that, should a fair deal be reached, he would inform the European Union as well as Zelensky, who he would call first out of respect.

And I may say, lots of luck, keep fighting. Or I may say we can make a deal, he said.

open image in gallery Trump said on Monday that Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky could attend the bilateral, but also appeared to question if it would help a deal be reached ( Ukrainian Presidential Press Service )

Either way, Trump said that a meeting between Putin and Zelensky would be necessary in the future. Ultimately, Im going to put the two of them in a room. Ill be there, or I wont be there, and I think itll get solved.

Fridays meeting will be the first between a U.S. president and Putin since 2021, when Joe Biden met him in Switzerland, and marks the first time the Russian president has set foot on American soil in a decade.

His visit is due to go ahead as planned, despite the fact that he faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

Critics have also noted that Alaska was once owned by Russia, who claimed it during the 1770s and sold it back to the U.S. in 1867. Russian traditionalists have long-since demanded the return of the territory.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/NicusorDan.ro/

Romanian President Nicos Dan plans to visit Kyiv in the fall at the invitation of his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky.

"I accepted President @ZelenskyyUA invitation to pay a visit to Kyiv this autumn," he said on X.

He also stressed the need for lasting peace in Ukraine and an end to Russia's daily shelling.

In addition, he noted that Romania also supports US President Donald Trump's efforts to establish a ceasefire, and peace should be achieved at the negotiating table with Ukraine.

"Romania supports the efforts of President Trump to reach a solution. An agreement must be just, long-lasting and sustainable. Peace must be reached with Ukraine at the negotiation table," Dan wrote.

According to Dan, Ukraine's security is closely linked to the security of the Black Sea and the security of Europe.
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President Trump reportedly wants his daughter to take on a bizarre new White House role despite her swearing off her involvement in politics.

Ivanka Trump has remained steadily in the shadows of her fathers orbit since his reelection for a second term last November.

However, UFC CEO Dana White says Trump wants to get her involved with plans for a cage fight on the White House lawn.

When [Trump] called me and asked me to do it, he said, I want Ivanka in the middle of this, White told CBS Mornings. So Ivanka reached out to me, and her and I started talking about the possibilities, where it would be and, you know, I put together all the renderings.

open image in gallery Ivanka Trump, 43, will speak Thursday about access to fresh produce at the Heartland Summit in Bentonville, Arkansas. She now has a new White House role despite saying she is no longer involved in politics. ( Getty )

Ivanka has yet to comment on the idea, however she has sat cage-side with her father at multiple fights.

Whites relationship with the president dates back to the early 2000s, when Trump hosted some of the first-ever UFC events at his exclusive properties.

He confirmed to CBS that talks took place with the president Monday night, announcing that the fight would be held on July 4, 2026.

Trump, who has attended several UFC fights, said the event would be one of many celebratory acts to unfold to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

open image in gallery UFC CEO Dana White (left) has confirmed that President Trump has given the go-ahead for a cage fight on the grounds of the White House ( AFP/Getty )

Ivankas potential involvement would mark a significant return following a three-year hiatus, during which she has appeared to prioritize her two children and husband, Jared Kushner.

I love my father very much. This time around, I am choosing to prioritize my young children and the private life we are creating as a family. I do not plan to be involved in politics, she stated in a 2022 social media post after she confessed she hates politics.

The mother-of-three and Kushner played a central role in Trumps 2016 presidential campaign. Both were made advisors to Trump when he took over the White House in 2017.

However, following Trumps tumultuous 2020 presidential election and the infamous Capitol Hill riots, Ivanka opted to sit out on his second run.
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More than 200 days after Donald Trumps self-imposed deadline to end Russias war against Ukraine on the first day of his second term, the White House is quietly acknowledging that his upcoming summit with Russian president Vladimir Putin isnt likely to result in a ceasefire.

The president and his Russian counterpart are set to meet Friday for a hastily arranged sit-down in Alaska, giving Putin the honor of being welcomed onto American territory by an American president and bringing an end to the international isolation he has faced since launching the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

On Monday, Trump said he may well know whether Putin is truly interested in reaching an agreement to end the war he started within just two minutes of sitting down with the Russian leader.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference in the White House briefing room, he said: I may say, lots of luck, keep fighting, or I may say we can make a deal.

That deal, according to Trump, could involve swapping parcels of land between Russian and Ukrainian control in exchange for peace. Its an idea that has also been broached by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte as well. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected such an option on multiple occasions.

A White House official who spoke to Politico ahead of the summit said Putin, who met with Trump envoy Steve Witkoff last week, asked for the meeting with the president and suggested a solution to the conflict. However, White House officials are now saying that the meeting might not mean a concrete deal for peace.

President Donald Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin are set to meet this week. However, White House officials are downplaying the possibility of a deal to end the war with Ukraine. ( Sputnik )

It may not be a viable plan, but there was something on paper, which shows progress, the official said.

The official added that Trump saw Putins willingness to meet as progress and is willing to hear him out, while a second White House official said Trump would use the meeting to gauge how serious Putin is about peace.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt similarly appeared to lower expectations when she was asked about Trumps outlook on the sit-down, calling it a listening exercise for the President and acknowledging that Zelenskys absence would make it difficult if not impossible for any real solution to the conflict to emerge from the bilateral talks.

Look, only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present, and so this is for the President to go and to get ... a more firm and better understanding of of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end, she said.

The President inherited this conflict, and he is determined to end it. And it's a very complex and complicated situation.

Leavitt also added that Trump  hopes in the future there can be a trilateral meeting between him, Putin and Zelensky to finally bring this conflict to an end while claiming that Trump has really used every lever and taken every measure to to achieve peace through a diplomatic solution.

I think the President of the United States getting in the room with the President of Russia, sitting face to face, rather than speaking over the telephone, will give this president the best indication of how to end this war and where this is headed, she said.
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The U.S. and Russia are set to suggest a West Bank-style occupation of Ukraine as a way of ending the war, according to The London Times.

Under the proposed plans, Russia would have both economic and military control of the occupied parts of Ukraine, utilizing its own governing body, mimicking Israels control of Palestinian territory taken from Jordan during the 1967 conflict.

The suggestion was put forward during discussions between President Donald Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff and his Russian counterparts, a source with insight into the U.S. National Security Council told the paper.

Witkoff, who also serves as the White Houses Middle East envoy, reportedly backs the suggestion, which the U.S. believes will solve the issue of the Ukrainian constitution prohibiting giving up territory without organizing a referendum. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected any notion of ceding territory, the new occupation proposal may lead to a truce following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.

According to the proposal, Ukraines borders would remain officially unchanged, similar to the borders of the West Bank, even as Israel controls the territory.

Itll just be like Israel occupies the West Bank, the source told The Times.

open image in gallery US official Steve Witkoff met Russian president Vladimir Putin in Moscow on August 6. Now, reports are emerging that both the US and Russia are backing plans for a West-bank style split of Ukraine to end the war. ( Sputnik )

With a governor, with an economic situation that goes into Russia, not Ukraine. But itll still be Ukraine, because  Ukraine will never give up its sovereignty. But the reality is itll be occupied territory and the model is Palestine, the source added to the paper.

The proposal will almost certainly be part of discussions between Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin set for Friday in Alaska. On Wednesday, Zelensky met with European leaders and Trump ahead of the Russia summit. Zelensky is not set to attend Fridays summit in person.

Trump reaffirmed during the Wednesday meeting that territorial issues can only be negotiated between Russia and Ukraine, according to French president Emmanuel Macron. The French leader also said Trump wants a ceasefire plan to be finalized during his Friday meeting.

Any issue which deals with the territorial integrity of Ukraine cannot be discussed just like that, without looking at our constitution and the will of our people, Zelensky told the press on Friday. As to our principles, as to our territorial integrity, in the end, will be decided on the level of leaders. Without Ukraine (at the table), its impossible to achieve, Zelensky added.

Zelensky said that a ceasefire should be reached and then security guarantees. He also said that sanctions against Russia should be imposed if no ceasefire deal is reached in Alaska.

open image in gallery Vladimir Putin, seen here speaking to Donald Trump in 2017, is trying to push the boundaries of the Russian occupation of Ukraine as far as he can ahead of their Friday meeting in Alaska ( Getty )

As details of any potential ceasefire are being discussed, the U.S. believes that the West Bank-style deal is the reality of war and the refusal of other nations to directly fight Russia, according to The Times.

In May, U.S. Senior Director for Counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka, told Politico that The Trump administration lives in the real world.

We recognize the reality on the ground, he added. No. 1, thats the beginning because were not utopianists and were not human engineers. Were not some kind of pie-in-the-sky believers in utopia.

He went on to say that We recognize the reality on the ground and we have one priority above all else, whether its the Middle East or whether its Ukraine. Its to stop the bloodshed. Everything else comes after the bloodshed has been halted.

The International Court of Justice has ruled that Israels occupation of the West Bank is illegal. The occupation isnt recognized by the U.S., and its only partially recognized by Russia.

Last September, the United Nations ordered Israel to end the occupation by a vote of 124 to 14, with 43 countries abstaining. The resolution stated that Israel must adhere to international law within 12 months, pull back its military, end all settlement efforts, evacuate all settlers from the occupied territories, and remove parts of the wall separating the West Bank. Israel has ignored the resolution and voted against the measure, as did the U.S.

Israel has faced widespread condemnation over its occupation and the settlement efforts. More than 150 have been established in recent years. Citizens of Israel who live in the West Bank must adhere to Israeli law, while Palestinians are subject to martial law, and theyre unable to vote in Israeli national elections.
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A Las Vegas funeral home has shut down after authorities accused it of failing to cremate bodies promptly, sometimes leaving remains for months in unsanitary conditions that one neighbor said caused the business to smell like death.

The Nevada State Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services revoked the license of McDermotts Funeral Home and Creation Services last week, finding that the business had not cremated or properly disposed of eight bodies in a reasonable period of time.

One body was kept at the facility for over 10 months before being cremated, according to officials.

The smell was straight up death, Daran Denny, who owns a tattoo shop nearby, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. I was a medic for 10 years, and I know what death smells like.

McDermotts owner, Chris Grant, said delays in processing were a result of waiting for approval from Clark County Social Services to pay for the treatment of bodies that went unclaimed or abandoned. The Independent has contacted the agency for comment.

open image in gallery Inspectors described scenes of bodies going months without cremation and leaking fluids onto floor in documents pulling license of Las Vegas funeral home, which owner contests ( Getty Images/iStockphoto )

Human nature is: Funeral Home got closed. I bet they were doing some scummy stuff, he told the paper. Nobody thinks that me and my staff lost everything. I just lost a 25-year career. I just lost a business that Ive been building for 8 years. I just lost the ability to even provide for my family.

During a February 2024 site visit, an inspector found eight bodies that hadnt been swiftly processed  Pamala Middlebrooks, Joseph Vocatura, Debi Vince, Catherine Lane-Novak, Lonna Lonning, Teresa John, Lawrence Ponteri and Edward Elliot  all of which had sat in refrigeration units for two months or more.

Investigators then found that in all eight cases, the funeral home hadnt filed death records within the lawful 72 hours of death or receiving the bodies, either.

open image in gallery Las Vegas funeral home had complaints dating back to 2021 with state officials ( Getty Images/iStockphoto )

One inspector that year described seeing three coolers containing numerous bodies that were leaking blood and bodily fluids.

A visit also revealed fluids of a body had dripped onto a body on a lower shelf and onto the floor, according to documents obtained by KLAS.

A McDermotts general manager told the outlet the inspections were baseless, and the funeral board denied the business, which had complaints dating back to 2021 with regulators, the opportunity for corrective action.
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A New Zealand MP has been ejected from Parliament for a second time after refusing to apologise for calling her opponents spineless during a heated debate on a Palestinian state.

Chloe Swarbrick, the co-leader of the left-wing Green Party, was initially ordered to leave the chamber on Tuesday.

She had urged government MPs "with a spine" to endorse her proposal for New Zealand to impose sanctions on Israel over the conflict in Gaza.

Despite being handed a three-day ban, considered lengthy by New Zealand parliamentary standards, Ms Swarbrick returned the following day.

However, she was ejected once more for her continued refusal to apologise for the remark.

Her censure unfolded amid fraught scenes in the countrys Parliament, where the government faced strong criticism for its reluctance to recognise an independent Palestinian state.

open image in gallery Chloe Swarbrick talks to the media after she was thrown out of Parliament ( Stuff )

It came days after neighbouring Australia pledged to do so. France, Britain, and Canada are also anticipated to recognise a state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

We are one of the very few countries in the world who so far refuse to acknowledge the absolute bare minimum, Ms Swarbrick said.

What prompted the original ejection?

Ms Swarbrick was abruptly ejected from the debating chamber when she urged government politicians to join her in a proposal to sanction Israel, which currently would not have enough votes to pass into law.

If we can find six of 68 government MPs with a spine, we can stand on the right side of history, Ms Swarbrick said, referring to other MPs.

That is completely unacceptable to make that statement, Speaker Gerry Brownlee interrupted.

Withdraw it and apologise.

The Green politician refused and Mr Brownlee told her to leave the debating chamber for the rest of the week.

Happily, Ms Swarbrick said.

The standoff resumed when Ms Swarbrick took her seat again on Wednesday, despite the ban, and Mr Brownlee asked again if she would apologise.

Ms Swarbrick declined and was ejected once more, yelling free Palestine as she went.

Mr Brownlee took the serious step, rare in New Zealands Parliament, of taking a vote to name Ms Swarbrick for her misconduct, a ruling that means a legislator is formally suspended with their pay docked. The vote passed, with all government MPs endorsing it.

open image in gallery New Zealands Speaker Gerry Brownlee ( The Post )

Opposition MPs claim double standards

The measure provoked fresh debate in Parliament about punishments for unruly behavior. Government lawmakers voted in June to enact unprecedented lengthy bans of opposition Maori Party MPs who performed a haka chant to protest a controversial vote.

On Wednesday, opposition politicians decried Ms Swarbricks penalty as unusually severe, with Labour MP Willie Jackson highlighting his own ban of just 30 minutes for calling one of his colleagues a liar, before being allowed to resume his seat without an apology.

In another recent example, a government politician used an eye-watering expletive without censure, supporters of Ms Swarbrick said.

Several others had escaped punishment in recent years when using the word spineless about their opponents. Opposition leader and former prime minister Chris Hipkins said it was unprecedented for an MP to be ejected from Parliament for a second day over the same offence.

Mr Brownlee, however, said he had drawn a line when Ms Swarbrick directed a personal insult at all 68 government lawmakers, including him.

We have so many threats and other stuff being directed at Members of Parliament, he said. If we dont change the behaviour in here, nothing will change outside.

Pressure grows to decide Palestinian statehood question

Meanwhile, the government continues to mull recognition of an independent Palestinian state.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made his most strident rebuke yet of Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the Israel leader has lost the plot on the human catastrophe in Gaza.

I think Netanyahu has gone way too far, Mr Luxon told reporters.

He is not listening to the international community and that is unacceptable.

While senior New Zealand officials, including Mr Luxon, have said recognition of Palestine from their government was a matter of not if, but when, his Cabinet has yet to endorse a change of position.

A decision will be made in September after further consideration, Mr Luxon said on Monday.
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A woman from New Zealand who was detained by US immigration with her young son at the US-Canada border feared she was being kidnapped.

Sarah Shaw, 33, and her six year-old were detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on 24 July when she drove her two eldest children to Vancouver airport in British Columbia for a direct flight to New Zealand to visit their grandparents on a holiday.

However, the mother and son were detained when they tried to cross the border to re-enter the US, where she was staying for over three years and is working as a youth counsellor at a juvenile detention facility in Washington.

They are confined in horrible, isolated conditions with extremely limited access to communicate with legal counsel and bordering abuse, her friend Victoria Besancon, who is trying to raise money to secure her release, said.

open image in gallery Sarah Shaws friends describes appalling and horrific living conditions at the detention facility ( GoFundMe )

She said Ms Shaw initially thought she was being kidnapped as they were bundled into a white van with no markings at the Canadian border.

"I remember her on the phone being absolutely panicked. She originally thought she was being kidnapped, she didn't even realise she was being detained originally, Ms Besancon told RNZ.

"They were put into a giant white van, there were no markers on it, and not a lot was explained to them, so she was absolutely terrified."

She claims Ms Shaw has not been given formal charge paperwork, has not been added to ICEs detainee locator system, and has been denied the chance to present evidence of her legal status.

She said her friend has been forced to spend what little commissary funds she has on basic items such as toothbrushes and shampoo for her son.

"She is in a locked room with five bunk beds, she's allowed to walk around the facility from 8am to 8pm, but outside of that she is locked in a cell with other families."

Aside from the staff, she and her son are the only English speakers, calling it kind of like being in jail.

open image in gallery ICE agents have been cracking down on immigration in the US under Donald Trumps second term ( AFP/Getty )

Ms Shaw is among the many foreign nationals who have ended up in detention centres as part of Donald Trumps immigration crackdown on immigrants. Centres that stretch between Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi have been dubbed Detention Alley.

Ms Shaws lawyer, Minda Thorward, told local media she had a temporary immigration document which made her eligible for re-entry into the US, but there was an administrative error with it.

The Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE), representing Ms Shaw, has demanded her release.

The trauma this has already caused for her and her son may never be healed, said Mike Yestramski, the unions president, who also works as a psychiatric social worker at Western State hospital.

He said the union vehemently opposes ICE practices and Mr Trumps immigration policies.

New Zealands foreign affairs ministry said they are in contact with Ms Shaw but did not comment further.

A British tourist, Rebecca Burke, a 28-year-old graphic artist from Monmouthshire, endured a 19-day detention in a US facility after a visa mix-up.

The Independent has reached out to ICE for a comment.
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A man in Australia was arrested on Tuesday after a police firearm was discharged at the domestic terminal of the Sydney Airport.

Australian federal authorities launched an investigation into the incident, the police spokesperson said. While the crime scene was sectioned off, there is no ongoing threat to the public and the airport is not in a lockdown, police said.

The incident took place around 6am, close to gate number 49 of T2 terminal, leading to a partial lockdown.

According to a video shared on 2BG radio, three police officials were seen restraining a man near a cafe. The man allegedly attempted to snatch an officers gun during the struggle, reported the outlet, citing sources.

Sydney airport is currently assisting Australian federal police following an incident earlier this morning, said the airport spokesperson. No injuries occurred as a result of the incident. An arrest has been made and the airport is operating normally.

Aircrafts line up at Sydney International Airport on 25 June 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images )

"An investigation into the incident has been launched ... and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

"Further comment will be provided at an appropriate time," police said in a statement.

While the accused, who has not yet been publicly identified, has been arrested, charges have not been pressed against him, reported 1News.

A bystander and a former New South Wales police officer who identified himself to 2GB as William, said he was at the airport to drop off his friend when he saw a man struggling with two Australian Federal Police officers.

"The AFP officer's long firearm has gone to the ground and was underneath the fellow as we went to restrain him. The shot has been discharged," he said.

Another eyewitnesses told ABC News that he saw people running as the gun went off.

While he did not see what incited the entire incident, the passenger told the outlet, "when they hit the ground the gun went off. It looked like [the bullet] hit the wall of that cafe there.

"There were a lot of cops, people running and Jetstar staff ushering people away."
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Donald Trump is meeting Vladimir Putin in Alaska in what the US president has said may be little more than a look see, but in truth may prove an encounter that defines Europe -and global security - for decades.

From Trumps perspective, the summit may be part of his drive for a Nobel Peace Prize by ending Putins war against Ukraine using the art of the deal. Putin, however, is likely to prevail and his agenda is the art of the steal  specifically a massive grab of his neighbours land.

Missing from the meeting is the country most affected  Ukraine itself. Led by Volodymyr Zelensky, it has held out against the Kremlin for 11 years.

open image in gallery Could Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin be about to seal Ukraines fate? ( AP )

Trump, Putin, and many others (including parts of the media) seem to think that Ukraines future can be decided by the two nuclear powers and then presented to Kyiv as a done deal.

Europe, the region most affected by what happens in Ukraine, has worked hard to underline that that is neither true nor sensible  while simultaneously keeping the mercurial US president on side when every indication is that hes firmly in Russias camp.

Heres how things currently stand.

How Russia and Ukraine ended up at war in 2022

In 1994, Ukraine gave up its nuclear arsenal in return for written guarantees from Russia, the US and the UK to respect Ukrainian sovereignty.

Twenty years later, Russia ignored those guarantees and invaded the Crimean Peninsula, claiming the land for itself and the right to protect Russian-speaking people in eastern Ukraine.

Putin annexed Crimea illegally, sponsoring rebels and sending troops into eastern Ukraine to capture large areas of Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts (provinces).

The US, Europe and the UK did nothing to help or protect Ukraine, even banning lethal arms exports to the embattled nation.

In 2022, the Russian president went one step further and launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He was stunned that it stalled and then failed. Limited weapons supplies from the US and UK helped partisans and Ukrainian forces hold the Russians back and then turn them around.

Ferocious fighting turned the front lines into a meat grinder conflict of attrition, with the exception of summer 2022, where Ukraine managed to recapture large areas of territory.

Three years on and Russia now holds almost all of Luhansk oblast, much of Donetsk, a significant area of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, and all of Crimea.

Still fighting determinedly, Ukraine has a toehold inside Russian territory in Kursk and has been conducting punishing attacks deep into Russian territory.

In response, Russia has stepped up drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, often launching 500 in a single night.

In the Black Sea, Russias navy has been driven out by Ukraine, which doesnt have a navy to speak of, using special forces and drone attacks.

open image in gallery The red and purple areas highlighted show areas occupied by Russia in eastern Ukraine, with areas liberated by Ukraine in green ( DeepStateMap )

What Russia wants

Putin has repeatedly said that there is no nation called Ukraine and that its territory is naturally part of Russia. His imperial ambitions are underpinned by Russias conquest of much of modern eastern Ukraine by Catherine the Great in the 18th century.

But above all, the Russian president is driven by a colonels Soviet mentality that led to Moscows attempts to annihilate the Ukrainian language, history and culture.

As a condition of a ceasefire of any kind, Russia has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from territories Moscow claims as its own, including the entirety of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts.

In a memorandum circulated at the Istanbul talks in March, Russia insisted a 30-day ceasefire would only take effect once Ukraine had fully pulled back from these four regions.

Russia also insists that Ukraine formally recognise all of Crimea and the four annexed oblasts as Russian territory in any future peace treaty.

This international legal recognition would enshrine Russias gains, obliging Kyiv to abandon any claim on those lands and to lift sanctions against Russia as part of a comprehensive settlement.

open image in gallery Trump has undercut Zelenskys war effort in multiple ways since returning to power ( Ukrainian Presidential Press Service )

Moscow also insists that Ukraine amend its constitution to enshrine permanent neutrality. This means giving up on its constitutionally mandated effort to join Nato.

Ukraine must also be left vulnerable, with the banning of third-party foreign military bases from its territory, a ban on Western arms deliveries, and the prohibition of neo-Nazi ideology, which Russia uses to justify a forced denazification of Ukrainian society.

Longer term, Putin has demanded that the Russian language should have equal status with Ukrainian as an official language.

In return, Ukraine will get no guarantee that Russias ambitions will stop at the five regions it has already taken as part of a ceasefire.

What Trump is trying to achieve

The US had been supporting Ukraine but was quick to turn on Zelensky, drop military aid, cut civilian support, weaken intelligence sharing, to swing firmly behind Putin in supporting Russian demands long before talks were even close to starting.

Trumps latest pitch is that Ukraine should accept territorial losses. Some kind of a land swap has been mooted, but this is Ukrainian territory for Ukrainian territory. This is ahead of a ceasefire, let alone a long-term peace.

This could mean Ukraine would cede the remaining parts of Donetsk that it still controls in exchange for Russia freezing its lines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

Trump has also said there would be no US element to any future force to guarantee a longer-term peace deal in Ukraine.

The US president has weakened Ukraine by cutting military aid. The US had given about $114bn to Ukraine. That figure is now zero.

Trump now insists that Ukraine and its allies purchase weapons from the US. He has also forced a minerals deal on Ukraine that swaps profits from resources for arms.

open image in gallery As world leaders talk, the devastating war continues ( AP )

What Ukraine is hoping will happen

Constitutionally, Zelensky can make no territorial concessions as part of a ceasefire. He would need a nationwide referendum to do so.

He also cannot abandon Ukraines attempts to join Nato as this has been enshrined in Ukrainian law since 2019. Hed need a referendum to change this.

Kyiv demands a full and unconditional ceasefire as the only basis for genuine negotiations and rejects any proposal that would require it to abandon its ambitions.

It sees Russian demands that Ukraine become neutral as an attack on its sovereignty.

Ukraine also insists on binding security guarantees from its Western partners, covering political, financial, military and diplomatic support.

open image in gallery The UK and the EU have pledged billions to support Ukraines fight ( AP )

And how does Europe fit into all this?

Slow to respond to Russias invasion, Europe is now by far the biggest donor in terms of weapons, money, and other aid to Ukraine. In total, some 250bn has been pledged by the EU and UK.

The European mantra of no talks about Ukraine without Ukraine has been ignored by Trump and Putin. The US is saying only that Zelensky and then European leaders will get a call from Trump after hes finished talking to the Russian president.

Europe insists that only Ukraine make decisions on territorial changes, its long-term neutrality and all other sovereign issues.

By threatening the viability of Nato itself, Trump has forced Europe into huge increases in military spending towards a target of 5 per cent of GDP.

Poland, the Baltic states, Finland and others in Scandinavia are preparing their populations to withstand potential Russian incursions.

The most obvious route to restoring the Soviet empire by reclaiming lost influence in Eastern Europe is through the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad in the Baltics, and in Transnistria, a breakaway part of Moldova backed by Russia.

Ursula von de Leyen, the EU president summed it up succinctly: Putin wants to force Ukraine into accepting the unacceptable, so the task we face is to help Ukraine stand strong, defy Putin's intimidations, and engage in peace talks based on its own conditions.
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Four children between the ages of 11 and 13 have been arrested for after allegedly stealing a car and fatally mowing down an elderly woman before fleeing the scene.

Cecilia De Astis, 71, was walking in Milan on Monday when she was hit by a Citroen and thrown into the air. The car then crashed into a road sign before the perpetrators fled on foot from the scene.

Three boys and one girl, aged between 11 and 13, have been taken into custody on suspicion of aggravated vehicular homicide due to their failure to assist the elderly woman. Italian media reports that the suspected driver is 13.

In Italian law, children below the age of 14 are not criminally liable. The Juvenile Prosecutors Office is currently handling the case, but if the suspects are confirmed to be under 14, they will be deemed ineligible for prosecution.

Ms De Astis was leaving the House of Solidarity of the Brothers of St. Francis, where she had been invited for lunch, before her death, La Stampa reports.

She was crossing Via Saponaro when she was struck by the Citroen, which was allegedly stolen from a French man the day before and had a French licence plate.

Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly afterwards but could not save her despite their best efforts.

Ms De Astis sons, Gaetano and Filippo, reportedly arrived at the scene of her death shortly after and collected her remaining belongings.

The woman was described in Italian media as having a passion for travel and a dedication to her family. She had dinner with her sons on the night before her death, according to La Stampa.

Ms De Astis originally hailed from Ruvo di Puglia in southeastern Italy but moved nearly 1,000km north west to Milan, where she built a new life with her husband, who died around 15 years ago.

She worked at the Cederna cotton mill for more than 30 years, but left shortly before the factorys closure in 2020.

The death has also sparked political reaction in Italy, with the right-wing populist Northern League calling for the parents to be severely punished, according to Il Fatto Quotidiano.
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Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Donald Trump and European leaders that Vladimir Putin is bluffing over his intentions to end the war in Ukraine, ahead of a crucial summit between the US and Russia on Friday.

The Ukrainian president reiterated that there can be no talk of territorial concessions without his countrys involvement, as both he and other world leaders are sidelined from the historic meeting in Anchorage, Alaska.

Following a virtual conference with Mr Zelensky, Mr Trump, German chancellor Friedrich Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir Starmer said a viable chance of reaching a ceasefire in the Ukraine war now exists, but Britain stands ready to increase pressure on Moscow if necessary.

open image in gallery German chancellor Friedrich Merz organised the virtual meeting to make sure European leaders are heard ahead of Fridays summit ( Getty )

Trump has also threatened "severe consequences" if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine. While he has not specified what those consequences could be, he has warned of further economic sanctions if the meeting proves fruitless.

It comes as a report in The Times suggests Russia and the US have discussed the Israeli occupation of the West Bank as a potential model for a future settlement between Moscow and Kyiv.

The plan, which is understood to be supported by Mr Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff, would imitate Israels rule over Palestinian territory since 1967, with Russia seizing military and economic control of the disputed regions.

During Wednesdays meeting, Mr Macron said that Mr Trump had been very clear in his objective to achieve a ceasefire, and had reiterated that territorial issues relating to Ukraine will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president.

Mr Trump later said that if his meeting with the Russian leader goes well, he would like to have a quick second meeting with Putin and Mr Zelensky.

He rated the call as a 10, and denied that it was his decision to exclude Mr Zelensky from Fridays talks.

"If the first [meeting] goes OK, we'll have a quick second one," Mr Trump told reporters. "I would like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there."

Meanwhile, Mr Zelensky told Mr Trump and European leaders that Putin is bluffing  he is trying to push forward along the whole front.

Putin is also bluffing, saying he doesnt care about the sanctions and that theyre not working, he said. In reality, the sanctions are very effective, and theyre hurting the Russian military economy. Putin doesnt want peace  he wants to occupy our country.

open image in gallery Donald Trump has described the summit with Putin on Friday as a feel-out meeting ( AP )

In recent days, Russian forces have been closing in on key territory around the city of Pokrovsk in the Donbas region, which could interrupt Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where Putin has concentrated his military efforts.

On Tuesday, Mr Zelensky said that Putin has demanded Kyivs forces withdraw from Donetsk as part of any potential ceasefire deal, a notion which he strongly rejected.

Reiterating his stance that relinquishing the Donbas region would not be agreed by Ukraine, Mr Zelensky told reporters: Any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people, and the Ukrainian constitution.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky also joined Keir Starmer and other coalition of the willing leaders who wish to police any future peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv ( AFP/Getty )

Mr Merz convened the virtual meetings in an attempt to make sure European leaders, and especially Mr Zelensky, are heard ahead of the Trump-Putin summit on Friday.

In a post to his Truth Social account ahead of the summit, Mr Trump said: Will be speaking to European leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done.

Mr Merz said after the video conference that important decisions could be made in Anchorage, but stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected at the summit.

He added that European leaders made it clear to Mr Trump that Ukraine must be at the table for any future meetings, a ceasefire must come ahead of the start of the negotiations, and recognising Russian-occupied territory is not on the table.

Other objectives included ensuring Ukrainian forces can defend their country with the support of Europe, and that wider negotiations must be part of a transatlantic strategy.

Fridays meeting has been described by the White House as a feel-out summit, with Mr Trump looking to see if Putin is serious about ending the war, and to better understand his intentions.

open image in gallery Keir Starmer has said that international borders must not be changed by force ( Reuters )

However, his comments that both Russia and Ukraine must concede territory have caused concern, with European leaders worried that any major concessions to Putin could cause security problems for the West.

A call among coalition of the willing leaders  those countries prepared to help police any future peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv, including the UK  also took place on Wednesday.

Sir Keir said: This is a critical moment. We have to combine active diplomacy on the one hand with military support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia.

International borders ... must not be changed by force ... thats a long-standing principle of this group.

And alongside that, any talk about borders, diplomacy, ceasefire has to sit alongside a robust and credible security guarantee to ensure that any peace ... is lasting peace and Ukraine can defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal.
European and Ukrainian leaders will speak to US President Donald Trump in an online meeting on Wednesday ahead of his summit with Vladimir Putin, trying to convey to him the danger of surrendering Kyiv's interests in the pursuit of a ceasefire, Reuters reports.

"A video conference between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the leaders of Germany, Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union is expected to take place at 12:00 GMT (15:00 Kyiv time), a German government spokesman said," the report said.

NATO Secretary General will also take part in the conference, which is being hosted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

It is noted that, in Trump's opinion, both Kyiv and Moscow will have to give up territory to end the war. Russian troops have already occupied almost a fifth of Ukraine. The unpredictability of the summit is fueling European fears that U.S. and Russian leaders could make far-reaching decisions and even try to force Ukraine into an unfavourable deal.

Our focus now is to make sure that doesnt happen  working with our American partners and remaining coordinated and united on the European side. Theres still a long way to go before Friday, said an unnamed senior Eastern European official.

On Tuesday, the Trump administration downplayed expectations for significant progress on the ceasefire, calling his meeting with Putin in Alaska a listening exercise.

Ukraine, for its part, hopes the meeting will serve as a European counterweight to the Alaska summit, at least in part.

European leaders have repeatedly stressed that they welcome his peace efforts, while stressing that no deal on Ukraine should be without Ukraines participation.

Half a dozen senior European officials told Reuters they saw the risk of a deal that was bad for Europe and Ukraine's security, saying European unity would be vital if that happened.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putins meeting in Alaska on Friday will mark the latest chapter in the 49th state's long history with Russia.

Siberian fur traders arrived from across the Bering Sea in the early 18th century, and the imprint of Russian settlement in Alaska remains.

The oldest building in Anchorage is a Russian Orthodox church, and many Alaska Natives have Russian surnames.

The nations are so close that Alaskas Little Diomede Island in the Bering Strait is less than 3 miles (5 kilometres) from Russias Big Diomede. So former Governor Sarah Palin was right during the 2008 presidential race when she said, You can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska.

open image in gallery Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018 ( AP )

Alaska has been U.S. territory since 1867, and was the location of the only World War II battle on North American soil, a focus of Cold War tensions and the site of occasional meetings between U.S. and world leaders.

Here's a look at Alaska's history with Russia and on the international stage:

Russian trappers and Seward's Folly

The fur traders established hubs in Sitka and on Kodiak Island. The Russian population in Alaska never surpassed about 400 permanent settlers, according to the Office of the Historian of the U.S. State Department.

Russian settlers brutally coerced Alaska Natives to harvest sea otters and other marine mammals for their pelts, said Ian Hartman, a University of Alaska Anchorage history professor.

It was a relationship that the Russians made clear quite early on was not really about kind of a longer-term pattern of settlement, but it was much more about a short-term pattern of extraction, Hartman said.

open image in gallery Gloriella Curtis holds up a river otter hide during the Fur Rendezvous annual auction in 2004 ( AP )

Meanwhile, Russian Orthodox missionaries baptised an estimated 18,000 Alaska Natives.

By 1867, the otters had been hunted nearly to extinction, and Russia was broke from the Crimean War. Czar Alexander II sold Alaska to the U.S. for the low price of $7.2 million, knowing Russia couldn't defend its interests in Alaska if the U.S. or Great Britain tried to seize it.

Sceptics referred to the purchase as Seward's Folly, after U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward. That changed when gold was discovered in the Klondike in 1896.

World War II and the Cold War

The U.S. realised Alaska's strategic importance in the 20th century. During World War II, the island of Attu  the westernmost in the Aleutian chain and closer to Russia than to mainland North America  was captured by Japanese forces. The effort to reclaim it in 1943 became known as the war's forgotten battle.

During the Cold War, military leaders worried the Soviets might attack via Alaska, flying planes over the North Pole to drop nuclear weapons. They built a chain of radar systems connected to an anti-aircraft missile system.

open image in gallery American soldiers land on the black volcanic beach during World War II at Massacre Bay on Attu Island in 1943 ( AP )

The military constructed much of the infrastructure in Alaska, including roads and some communities, and its experience building on permafrost later informed the private companies that would drill for oil and construct the trans-Alaska pipeline.

Last year, the Pentagon said the U.S. must invest more to upgrade sensors, communications and space-based technologies in the Arctic to keep pace with China and Russia, and it sent about 130 soldiers to a desolate Aleutian island amid an increase in Russian military planes and vessels approaching U.S. territory.

Past visits by dignitaries

Putin will be the first Russian leader to visit, but other prominent figures have come before him.

Japanese Emperor Hirohito stopped in Anchorage before heading to Europe in 1971 to meet President Richard Nixon, and in 1984, thousands turned out to see President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II meet at the airport in Fairbanks.

President Barack Obama visited in 2015, becoming the first sitting U.S. president to set foot north of the Arctic Circle, on a trip to highlight the dangers of climate change.

open image in gallery New Archangel Russian Dancers perform as part of the Alaska Day Festival celebrations in 2012 ( AP )

Governor Bill Walker welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport in Anchorage in 2017 and then took him on a short tour of the states largest city.

Four years later, Anchorage was the setting for a less cordial meeting as top U.S. and Chinese officials held two days of contentious talks in their first face-to-face meeting since President Joe Biden took office two months earlier.

Critics say Alaska is a poor choice for the summit

Sentiment toward Russia in Alaska has cooled since Putin invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Anchorage Assembly voted unanimously to suspend its three-decade-long sister city relationship with Magadan, Russia, and the Juneau Assembly sent its sister city of Vladivostok a letter expressing concern.

The group Stand Up Alaska has organised rallies against Putin on Thursday and Friday.

open image in gallery The cemetery at St. Nicholas Church in Eklutna, Alaska, features a mixture of Russian Orthodox conventions ( AP )

Dimitry Shein, who ran unsuccessfully for Alaskas lone seat in the U.S. House in 2018, fled from the Soviet Union to Anchorage with his mother in the early 1990s. He expressed dismay that Trump has grown increasingly authoritarian.

Russia and the U.S. are just starting to look more and more alike, he said.

Many observers have suggested that holding the summit in Alaska sends a bad symbolic message.

Its easy to imagine Putin making the argument during his meetings with Trump that, Well, look, territories can change hands, said Nigel Gould-Davies, former British Ambassador to Belarus and senior fellow at the International Institute of Strategic Studies in London. 'We gave you Alaska. Why cant Ukraine give us a part of its territory?'
Close North Korea releases video of troops fighting in Ukraine war

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Donald Trump says he believes Vladimir Putin is avoiding meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky simply due to personal animosity.

The US president has been pushing to arrange a peace summit between the two leaders but his efforts have so far been rebuffed by Moscow.

Asked yesterday why Putin was refusing to meet Zelensky, Trump appeared once again to sympathise with the Russian leader.

Because he doesnt like him, Trump said, adding: I have people I dont like, I dont like to meet with them.

Trump also admitted that he has spoken on the phone with Putin again since their call on the side lines of a summit with European leaders in the White House last Monday.

Meanwhile, Zelensky said Monday he had a good meeting with US envoy Keith Kellogg, discussing pressure on Russia for real" ceasefire talks and the United States' role in Ukraines security.

Plans for a possible summit with Putin and post-ceasefire guarantees were also due to be discussed this week. It is unclear if this will be separate from the Kellogg meeting.
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Vladimir Putin has only one card left to play  to prolong the killing in Ukraine, according to a senior source in Volodymyr Zelenskys presidential office as Europe held top-level talks ahead of the Alaska summit this week.

Zelensky has not been invited to Fridays meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. And there are deep concerns that the US president will emerge from the encounter taking an even harder line on Ukraine.

Europes leaders, including Keir Starmer, have been corralling US officials and White House insiders, and met virtually with the Oval Office to try to persuade Trump to use the leverage he has over Putin to get him to agree to a ceasefire.

Trump told those gathered on the call that he would push Putin for a ceasefire deal at the meeting in Anchorage, but Zelensky voiced concerns that the Russian president, not for the first time, was bluffing about wanting a path to peace.

He told the US president that Putin is trying to apply pressure ... on all sectors of the Ukrainian front to show he is capable of occupying the whole of Ukraine.

A source close to Zelensky told The Independent that Putin only has one goal in mind: The main thing for Putin is to try to trade land for ceasefires. The ability to kill and to prolong war is the only card Putin has. So, hes trying to play this card.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky is welcomed by Germanys chancellor Friedrich Merz as he arrives in Berlin on Wednesday to join a video conference of European leaders with the US president on the Ukraine war, ahead of the summit between the US and Russian leaders ( AFP/Getty )

In February this year, Trump lost his temper with Zelensky, yelling at him that he didnt have the cards in the conflict with Russia during an infamous press conference in the Oval Office.

Now, Ukraine insists, its Putin who has the weaker hand.

Europes leaders tried to reinforce that message to Trump, pushing the idea that sanctions really are having an effect on Russia. They emphasised this so that Trump feels confident to threaten further economic sanctions against countries that import Russian oil  and even to renew arms shipments to Ukraine  in his effort to persuade Putin to suspend military operations.

Trump does want to finish the killings, its true, and he has the power to do it. So the question is, for him, how to do the right thing, the Ukrainian presidential adviser said.

open image in gallery Donald Trump berates Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office at the White House in February this year ( Getty )

So far, Putin has said any ceasefire would have to be premised on the condition that Ukraine agrees to cede four provinces  Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia  to Russia along with Crimea. He also wants assurances that Ukraine will not use any pause in the fighting to rearm.

Ukraine has long agreed to a minimum 30-day unconditional ceasefire, and insists it is willing to discuss grounds for peace.

As speculation mounts over what Fridays summit will achieve, Trump has indicated that he agrees with Russia and that Ukraine should be prepared to agree land swaps of Ukrainian territory.

Europe, the UK and Ukraine have ruled out such concessions  especially as part of any deal struck between Russia and the US without Ukraine being present.

Despite the fanfare over the meeting in Anchorage, the US actually has less power, and therefore less influence over the outcome of the talks, as a result of forcing Kyiv and Europe into taking on more of the burden of helping Ukraine to defend its territory.

Trump cut all military aid to Ukraine earlier this year. The total US military spend there has amounted to 114bn (84bn), which is dwarfed by the current pledged contribution by the UK and the EU, which stands at 250bn (216bn).

open image in gallery Speculation is mounting over what will be achieved at Fridays summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin ( Reuters )

Ukraines Nato allies now have to buy US weapons to supply Kyiv, but there are no signs that the US could ban that revenue stream.

Russia has seen its second-largest oil client, India, hit with 50 per cent US tariffs, with 25 per cent imposed in an effort to convince Putin to respond to Trumps ceasefire proposals. And if the US decided to open the taps of free military aid again, it could tip the tactical balance rapidly in Ukraines favour.

The UK and Europe want Trump to spell this out to Putin.

Zelensky supports the ceasefire, the Ukrainian source said. The problem is that Putin rejects it. The majority of Ukrainians want to see peace, its true, but at the same time the majority of Ukrainians reject Russian claims on the territory.
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US President Donald Trump has signalled that Ukraine might have to give up territory to end the war with Russia as he prepares to meet Vladimir Putin for peace talks.

Announcing the talks with the Russian president, set to take place in Alaska on Friday, Mr Trump said: There will be some swapping of territories.

The White House is reportedly trying to sway European leaders to accept an agreement that would include Russia taking the entire Donbas region in eastern Ukraine and keeping Crimea. In exchange, it would give up the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, areas which Russia is partially occupying, CBS reported.

But in a statement on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the idea, saying that Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.

A map from ISW shows where Russian forces are currently occupying Ukraine and the most active frontlines ( Institute for the Study of War )

The Wall Street Journal reported that Mr Putin had already proposed a similar land swap agreement to US envoy Steve Witkoff at a meeting in Moscow.

Ukraine had previously warned that no peace deal is possible if it is forced to give up territory to Russia, after the US said supporting Kyiv to retake occupied land was unrealistic.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has previously said that we must start by recognising that returning to Ukraines pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic objective. Chasing this illusionary goal will only prolong the war and cause more suffering".

The position is markedly different from that of the previous Joe Biden administration, which supported Ukraine in ejecting Russian forces from its land completely.

The hardline stance under the Trump regime has already faced backlash, with accusations that the US is betraying Ukraine.

On Saturday, European leaders reaffirmed their backing of Ukraine in a joint statement from the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland and the European Commission.

Insisting that Ukraine be part of any peace talks, they said: The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. We remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force. The current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations.

Russia currently occupies around 20 per cent of Ukraine, including parts of four regions of mainland Ukraine, as well as the Crimean peninsula.

Mr Putin first invaded Ukraine in 2014, when he illegally annexed Crimea. It is widely believed he then ordered unmarked soldiers known as little green men to fight on behalf of Russia in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.

In February 2022, he then ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, reportedly hoping to take the country in just three days.

After being pushed back from Kyiv and northeastern Ukraine, the latest iteration of Mr Putins land grab focused on the four regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

In September 2022, he illegally annexed these four regions, none of which are completely controlled by Russian forces.

He has since repeatedly claimed that he will only agree to end his invasion of Ukraine if Kyiv cedes these four regions to him.

Ukraine and the countrys European supporters have suggested this would amount to rewarding Mr Putin for his illegal land grab.

Ceding the Donbas region would mean giving up an area with cities and industrial centres, and Ukraine abandoning its defensive line in northern Donetsk.
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Any peace deal that would see Ukraine cede territory to Russia in hopes of ending the war would be deeply unpopular with the Ukrainian people.

It would also be illegal under the countrys constitution.

US President Donald Trump, who is due to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaskas Anchorage on Friday, has suggested that a concession involving a swap of Ukrainian territories would be to the betterment of both sides.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has categorically rejected the suggestion.

Kyiv "will not give Russia any awards for what it has done", Mr Zelensky said.

"Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier."

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected the suggestion of a land swap ( AP )

For the Ukrainian leader, such a deal would be a political disaster, risking significant public outcry after more than three years of intense bloodshed and sacrifice.

Crucially, he lacks the authority to sign off on it, as changing Ukraines 1991 borders runs counter to the countrys constitution.

For now, freezing the front line appears to be an outcome the Ukrainian people are willing to accept.

The current situation in Ukraine

Russia occupies about a fifth of Ukraine, from the countrys northeast to the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed illegally in 2014.

The front line is vast and cuts across six regions  the active front stretches for at least 1,000 kilometres (680 miles)  but if measured from along the border with Russia, it reaches as far as 2,300 kilometres (1,430 miles).

Russia controls almost all of the Luhansk region and almost two-thirds of Donetsk region, which together comprise the Donbas, as the strategic industrial heartland of Ukraine is called.

Russia has long coveted the area and illegally annexed it in the first year of the full-scale invasion, even though it did not control much of it at the time.

open image in gallery Ukrainian servicemen of the 148th artillery brigade set up a M777 howitzer before firing towards Russian positions at the frontline in Zaporizhzhia region ( AP )

Russia also partially controls more than half of the Kherson region, which is critical to maintain logistical flows of supplies coming in from the land corridor in neighboring Crimea, and also parts of the Zaporizhzhia region, where the Kremlin seized Europes largest nuclear power plant.

Russian forces also hold pockets of territory in Kharkiv and Sumy regions in northeastern Ukraine, far less strategically valuable for Moscow.

Russian troops are gaining a foothold in the Dnipropetrovsk region. These could be what Moscow is willing to exchange for land it deems more important in Donetsk, where the Russian army has concentrated most of its effort.

Therell be some land swapping going on. I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody. To the good, for the good of Ukraine. Good stuff, not bad stuff. Also, some bad stuff for both, Mr Trump said on Monday.

Ukrainian forces are still active in the Kursk region inside Russia, but they barely hold any territory there, making it not as potent a bargaining chip as Kyiv's leaders had probably hoped when they launched the daring incursion across the border last year.

Swapping Ukrainian controlled territory in Russia, however minuscule, will likely be the only palatable option for Kyiv in any land swapping scenario.

open image in gallery Ukrainian soldiers from air-defence unit of 59th brigade fire at Russian strike drones in Dnipropetrovsk region ( AP )

Conceding land risks another invasion

Surrendering territory would see those unwilling to live under Russian rule to pack up and leave. Many civilians have endured so much suffering and bloodshed since pro-Moscow forces began battling the Ukrainian military in the east in 2014 and since the full-scale invasion in 2022.

From a military standpoint, abandoning the Donetsk region in particular would vastly improve Russias ability to invade Ukraine again, according to the Washington-based think tank Institute for the Study of War.

Bowing to such a demand would force Ukraine to abandon its fortress belt the main defensive line in Donetsk since 2014, "with no guarantee that fighting will not resume, the institute said in a recent report.

The regional defensive line has prevented Russias efforts to seize the region and continues to impede Russias efforts to take the rest of the area, ISW said.

Ukraines constitution poses a major challenge to any deal involving a land swap because it requires a nationwide referendum to approve changes to the countrys territorial borders, said Ihor Reiterovych, a politics professor in the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

Changes in territorial integrity can be done only by the decision of the people  not the president, the cabinet of ministers or the parliament can change it, he said.

In the constitution it is written that only by referendum can changes to Ukraines territory be conducted.

open image in gallery Donald Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin on Friday ( AFP/POOL/AFP via Getty Images )

If during negotiations Mr Zelensky agrees to swap territory with Russia, "in the same minute he will be a criminal because he would be abandoning the main law that governs Ukraine, Mr Reiterovych said.

Mr Trump said he was a little bothered by Mr Zelenskys assertion over the weekend that he needed constitutional approval to cede to Russia the territory that it captured in its unprovoked invasion.

I mean, hes got approval to go into a war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap? Mr Trump added.

Because therell be some land swapping going on. I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody.

Mr Zelensky is still trying to regain the people's trust that was damaged when he reversed course on a law that would have diminished the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption watchdogs.

The move was a red line for those citizens who are protective of the countrys institutions and are suspicious of certain members of Mr Zelenskys inner circle.

open image in gallery Mr Zelensky is trying to regain the Ukrainian peoples trust ( PA Wire )

Freezing the conflict seems a lesser evil for Ukraine

Analysts like Mr Reiterovych dismiss a land swap as a distraction. Freezing the conflict along the current front line is the only option Ukrainians are willing to accept, he said, citing recent polls.

This option would also buy time for both sides to consolidate manpower and build up their domestic weapons industries. Ukraine would require strong security guarantees from its Western partners to deter future Russian aggression, which Kyiv believes is inevitable.

Still, freezing the conflict will also be difficult for Ukrainians to accept.

Along with the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the partial occupation of Luhansk and Donetsk after that, it would require accepting that the Ukrainian military is not able to retake lost territories militarily. Kyiv accepted its inability to retake these territories but never formally recognised them as Russian.

A similar scenario could unfold in the new regions taken by Russian forces.

It also is not a viable long-term solution.

It is the lesser evil option for everyone and it will not provoke protests or rallies on the streets, Mr Reiterovych said.
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A blaze has reportedly killed 26 horses in their stables, alongside a 55-year-old man who died trying to save them, as wildfires continue to devastate southern Europe.

The man suffered burns to 98 per cent of his body in the fire in Soto de Vinuelas, north of Madrid, and died in hospital after being flown there by helicopter, the Guardian reported.

A Spanish volunteer firefighter also died from severe burns, and several others were hospitalised, as the state weather agency AEMET warned that almost the entire country faced an extreme or very high risk of fire.

The 35-year-old deceased was attempting to create firebreaks near Nogarejas, in the central Castile and Leon region, when he became trapped in the inferno, according to regional officials.

He was the sixth person to die this year in wildfires in Spain. Others include two firefighters in Tarragona and Avila, according to emergency services.

The blazes have consumed homes, farms, and factories, forcing the evacuation of thousands of residents and tourists across southern Europe.

open image in gallery Firefighters battle a blaze outside Ourense in northwestern Spain ( AFP/Getty )

They are fuelled by a relentless heatwave, strong winds, and a combination of suspected arson and thunderstorms.

In Greece, a cement factory on the outskirts of Patras, west of Athens, was engulfed in flames and dark smoke, as a wildfire swept through olive groves and forests, disrupting local rail traffic.

A volunteer, Giorgos Karvanis, who travelled from Athens to assist, said: "What does it look like? It looks like doomsday. May God help us and help the people here."

Authorities had already ordered the evacuation of a town of about 7,700 people near Patras on Tuesday, issuing further alerts on Wednesday for residents of two nearby villages to leave.

On the popular tourist islands of Chios in the east and Cephalonia in the west, officials also instructed people to move to safety as fires continued to spread.

open image in gallery A firefighter works to extinguish a fire from a building during a wildfire in Sichaina near Patras, Greece, ( Reuters )

Suspected arson

Spanish Environment Minister Sara Aagesen told the SER radio station that many fires across the country were thought to be the work of arsonists due to their virulence.

A male firefighter was arrested on Tuesday for fires started in the Avila area north of Madrid two weeks ago, while police said on Tuesday they were investigating a 63-year-old woman for allegedly starting fires in Galicia's Muxia area in August.

Police have also identified a suspect who is believed to have suffered burns to his hands after starting a small fire in a beachfront development in the southern coastal Cadiz area, Europa Press reported.

Thunderstorms have caused other fires.

On Tuesday, shortly after 5 pm, Andalusia's fire department was flooded with calls by residents reporting a fire caused by a lightning strike on a chestnut and oak forest in Los Romeros, north of the city of Huelva.

The fire prompted the evacuation of around 250 residents but was largely controlled by Wednesday morning.

A blaze in Trancoso in Portugal that has been burning since Saturday got worse during the night as a lightning reignited an area that was thought safe, the civil protection service said.

open image in gallery A burned house is pictured during the forest fire in Pareisas, northwestern Spain ( AP )

In Albania, Defence Minister Pirro Vengu said it was a critical week, with several major wildfires burning across the country.

Some 10,000 firefighters, soldiers and police emergency units struggled with a total of 24 wildfires on Wednesday, the defence ministry said.

Flames reached two villages in the centre of the country, forcing villagers to flee, taking their livestock with them.

We are going in the middle of two rivers because the fire has arrived, said Hajri Dragoti, 68, from Narte, who fled with his wife taking a cow, a donkey and a dog.

We can't do anything, it is like gunpowder.

Spain was in its 10th day of a heatwave that peaked on Tuesday with temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit), and which AEMET expected to last until Monday, making it one of the longest on record.

Pope Leo moved his weekly audience from St. Peter's Square to an indoor venue in the Vatican, to stay a little bit out of the sun and the extreme heat as Italy's health ministry issued extreme heat warnings for 16 cities on Wednesday, with temperatures forecast to peak at 39C (102F) in Florence.
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Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in talks with South Sudan about resettling Palestinians from Gaza amid the ongoing Israeli offensive on the embattled strip.

Mr Netanyahu has previously said he wants to realise US president Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population through what the Israeli leader refers to as voluntary migration.

At least six people familiar with the matter told the Associated Press that Israel was in discussion with the authorities of the war-torn north African country. It was not clear how far the talks had progressed, but the plan, if successful, would amount to transferring people from one war-ravaged region to another.

Palestinians and human rights groups have largely rejected the proposal of Israel to remove the people of Gaza from their homeland in violation of international law. Israel has reportedly floated similar resettlement proposals with other African nations, including Somalia, Egypt, and even Indonesia in southeast Asia.

I think that the right thing to do, even according to the laws of war as I know them, is to allow the population to leave, and then you go in with all your might against the enemy who remains there, Mr Netanyahu told Israeli broadcaster i24.

For South Sudan, such a deal could help it build closer ties to Israel. It is also a potential inroad to Mr Trump, who broached the idea of resettling Gazas population in February but appears to have backed away in recent months.

Israels foreign ministry declined to comment, and South Sudans foreign minister did not respond to questions about the talks to AP. A US state department spokesperson said it doesnt comment on private diplomatic conversations.

Israels 22-month-long air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas 2.3 million population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory toward famine. It has killed more than 61,600 Palestinians, according to Gazas health ministry.

Displaced Palestinians walk through a makeshift camp along the beach in Gaza City ( AP )

Joe Szlavik, the founder of a US lobbying firm working with South Sudan, said he was briefed by South Sudanese officials on the talks. He told the news agency that an Israeli delegation plans to visit the country to look into the possibility of setting up camps for Palestinians there.

Edmund Yakani, who heads a South Sudanese civil society group, said he had also spoken to South Sudanese officials about the talks. Efforts to relocate the Palestinians to North Africa have been reportedly ongoing for months, according to Egyptian officials.

NBC News reported in March that the Trump administration was working on a plan to permanently relocate up to 1 million Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to Libya. A spokesperson for the Trump administration later denied the reports as untrue.

The bid to relocate Palestinians escalated after Mr Trump on 4 February said the US should take over the war-battered enclave and rebuild it as the Riviera of the Middle East after resettling the Palestinians elsewhere.

Israeli officials, along with a controversial US-backed aid group, Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), were working to build large-scale camps called humanitarian transit areas inside  and possibly outside  Gaza to house the Palestinian population, according to reports.

The $2bn (1.5bn) plan, created earlier this year, has been submitted to the Trump administration, Reuters reported, citing two sources.

The plan, which was widely discussed at the White House, describes the camps as large-scale and voluntary places where the population of Gaza could temporarily reside, deradicalise, reintegrate and prepare to relocate if they wish to do so.

The GHF started distributing aid on 26 May, following a nearly three-month Israeli blockade that pushed Gazas population of more than 2 million people to the brink of famine.

In a statement, the organisation said it had delivered more than 52 million meals over five weeks. Instead of bickering and throwing insults from the sidelines, we would welcome other humanitarian groups to join us and feed the people in Gaza, the statement said. We are ready to collaborate and help them get their aid to people in need.

The UN has called GHFs operation inherently unsafe and a violation of humanitarian impartiality rules. The UN human rights office says it has recorded at least 1,373 killings at GHF aid points and near humanitarian convoys run by other relief groups.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday warned that starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began. At least 121 adults and 101 children have died of malnutrition-related causes during the war.

Against this backdrop, humanitarian supplies entering Gaza remain far below the minimum required to meet peoples immense needs, Mr Dujarric said.
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Travelers in U.S. airports may be able to move through the security line a little faster now  if they're willing to let the government scan their faces.

The Department of Homeland Security is now using facial recognition software in its TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lines. Those lanes are separate lanes from the typical PreCheck lanes, which have reportedly become slow as more travelers take advantage of the service, according to the Washington Post.

The program started in 2021 at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, but is now available in 15 airports. Those airports include: Chicago O'Hare; Dallas-Fort Worth; Denver; Detroit Metropolitan; Harry Reid; Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta; JFK; LaGuardia; LAX; Newark; Portland International in Oregon; Ronald Regan; Salt Lake City; San Francisco and Seattle-Tacoma International Airports.

Some lanes are only available with certain airlines at certain airports. Travelers hoping to jump into the supposedly faster lines should check before traveling if their airport and airline use the service.

For travelers who don't mind letting the fed scan their faces, they have to first be a TSA PreCheck member with a valid Known Traveler Number and an active airline profile  like a loyalty program  as well as a valid passport.

Air travelers may be able to move through security faster if theyre willing to allow the TSA to scan their faces ( Getty Images )

The facial recognition lanes can be faster than other security lines. For one, travelers don't have to stop to hand over their IDs to TSA officials. They simply walk through the line dividers until the reach the luggage X-ray machines. The other reason is that the line is relatively new and hasn't been inundated with travelers  yet.

Reporters at the Washington Post that tried the new program reported that during one attempt the facial recognition machine was under maintenance, and during the second, a Touchless ID symbol did not print on their boarding pass, and they were not able to time how long going through the line without issue would take.

The major question looming about facial recognition technology is Americans' privacy and how that data will be stored and used.

Critics of the technology cited a 2019 incident in which a DHS data breach compromised the photos of American travelers. The information was accessed through one of the DHS's subcontractors, according to the Washington Post.

The TSA said that its databases are encrypted and that traveler information is protected from breaches.

A new bill in the Senate would allow for airport officials to scan travelers' faces, but only if they opt-in to the technology. It would ban using the tech for anything other than verifying people's identities, and require the agency to immediately delete the facial scans once the check is complete.

Right now, travelers can opt out of facial recognition scanning by telling airport security you'd prefer a "standard ID check."
Zelenskyy in Berlin to participate in video conference with European leaders, Rutte and Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday, August 13, after which the leaders will take part in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump, presidential spokesman Serhiy Nykyforov has said.

"The president is working in Berlin today. There will be a bilateral meeting with Federal Chancellor Merz, then they will jointly take part in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Rutte and US President Trump," Nykyforov told reporters.

Following the meeting, statements by Zelenskyy and Merz to the media are possible at approximately 4:00 p.m. Berlin time (5:00 p.m. Kyiv time).

In addition, there will be an online meeting of the Coalition of the Willing today.
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Temperatures could reach as high as 34C in parts of the country today as the fourth heatwave of the summer continues, while thunderstorms are also set to hit the UK this week.

An amber heat health alert remains in place for the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, London, and East of England until 6pm on Wednesday, while much of the rest of England is already under yellow alerts. Now, a thunderstorm warning has also been issued by the Met Office.

The yellow weather alert will be in place across most of Scotland and Northern Ireland from midnight until 10pm on Thursday, with the forecaster predicting heavy showers and thunderstorms.

The warning comes after temperatures peaked at a sweltering 33.4C on Tuesday, with the highest readings recorded in Benson, Oxfordshire, Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire, and Northolt in west London.

And the mercury could climb even higher on Wednesday, according to the Met Office, soaring to a potential 34C in parts of England.

open image in gallery Temperatures could reach as high as 34C in parts of the country today as the fourth heatwave of the summer continues ( Reuters )

Forecasters expect more heat on Wednesday, cooler but still warm conditions on Thursday, and a return to very hot weather in the south and South East by Friday.

Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst told The Independent: The heatwave is looking likely to last the rest of the week.

He added: Beyond that, it should be a bit cooler. The Met Office predicts Tuesday and Wednesday will see the peak of the warmth before a slow cooling off throughout the rest of the week. However, Mr Dewhurst said warm conditions are expected to last well into September.

But with temperatures on the rise, the Met Office warned Britons should also brace for thunderstorms.

Met Office chief meteorologist Dan Suri said: Wednesday brings a more complex picture, with high temperatures but also the chance of thunderstorms arriving in the evening... across northern areas, with the potential for some fairly wet weather. Whilst the exact location for these unsettled conditions remains uncertain, its possible a warning may be issued closer to the time.

open image in gallery Dry banks seen at Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District National Park on Tuesday ( PA )

The forecaster predicts Thursday could see thundery rain in the north again, while later on Friday and into the weekend the southwest might be hit by showers or thunderstorms.

Marco Petagna, another meteorologist at the Met Office, detailed the expected temperatures for the week.

He said: Wednesday will be mostly dry with further very warm or hot sunshine, but we will see some showers, particularly in the South East during the afternoon and also a few affecting Scotland during the day, which could turn heavy and thundery.

It will be another warm and hot day with maximum temperatures of 33C to 34C, highest in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire.

On Thursday there will still be a few showers, particularly in the north, and it will not be quite as hot, but temperatures will still peak around 29C to 30C in East and south-east England.

open image in gallery A firefighter works at the scene of a wildfire in Northolt, north-west of London, amid the heatwave on Tuesday ( Reuters )

Friday looks mostly fine, with very hot sunshine in the south and South East, where temperatures could reach 31C, while Scotland will see highs in the low 20s.

The all-time hottest August day was 38.5C in Faversham, Kent, on 10 August 2003, while the hottest day of 2025 so far was 35.8C, also in Faversham, on 1 July.

Britons can expect a largely dry and settled August, with temperatures looking to remain above average, particularly in the south of the UK, according to Mr Dewhurst.

There is an overall picture of high pressure, and a settled month seems to be main theme, he said, despite some potentially chillier winds hitting the eastern coast.

But I wouldnt write off summer just yet, he added.

open image in gallery Visitors take to the shore on the seafront at Southsea, Hamphire, this week ( PA )

The latest heatwave, the fourth of the summer so far, prompted the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office to issue a heat warning on Tuesday.

Dr Paul Coleman, consultant in public health at UKHSA, said: Temperatures are forecast to rise above 30C across central and southern parts of the country over the next few days, and generally hot weather is expected across most regions of England.

These kind of temperatures can result in serious health outcomes across the population  particularly in those who are vulnerable, such as the elderly or those with serious health conditions  so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.

Officials have warned that England is suffering from nationally significant water shortfalls despite rain in July.

The national drought group, which includes the Met Office, regulators, government, water companies and other organisations, has met as five areas of the country remain in drought, with six more in prolonged dry weather status.

England is seeing widespread environmental and agricultural impacts from the lack of water, which is hitting crop yields, reducing feed for livestock, damaging wetlands and river wildlife, and increasing wildfires, the group said.
Spencer Place Residential, a Ronan Group development in Dublins north docklands, has been sold to Ardstone for 177m. The transaction is the highest-value residential investment deal in Ireland this year, and suggests a higher level of confidence in the sector.

Ronan Group acquired the six-acre mixed-use campus in 2016, and subsequently secured the tenancy of Salesforce, in what was described as the largest pre-let ever achieved in the Irish market. Ardstone is now acquiring the development from Spencer Place Development Company, which is a joint venture between the Ronan Group and Fortress Investment Group.
She departs after six years at the airport, with passenger numbers for the first six months of this year at Shannon totalling 1.04 million  an increase of more than 7pc on the same period in 2024. Last year Shannon dealt with over 2.1 million passengers, the highest annual total in 15 years.
Thousands of health insurance customers warned they could end up on more expensive plans as major insurer retires 22 plans

People who do not choose an alternative plan will have new one recommended for them by the company

Irish Life is streamlining its services. Stock image

Charlie Weston Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 06:30

People who have health insurance with Irish Life have been warned not to fall into a situation where they end up on a more expensive plan.
Sophie Ellis-Bexter performs on main stage during day one of Electric Picnic Festival 2024 at Stradbally Hall Estate. Photo: Debbie Hickey/Getty.

Around 80,000 people will descend on Stradbally, Co Laois for Electric Picnic, the countrys largest festival, from August 29 to 31.

Here is everything you need to know about the three-day event, from how to get there to the headliners.

Who is on the Electric Picnic line-up?

Hitmakers like Hozier, Chapell Roan, Sam Fender, Fatboy Slim and Kings of Leon are among the headliners this year, with international acts like Becky Hill, Confidence Man, The Kooks and Lord Huron also on the line-up.

Inhaler, David Gray, Nile Rodgers + CHIC and The 2 Johnnies will also be on stage in Stradbally.

Conan Gray and Irish stars like Biig Piig, Amble, Kingfishr, Bell X1, Maverick Sabre, The Academic and Aaron Rowe will also be playing throughout the weekend alongslide acts like Suki Waterhouse, Maribou State, Montell and Barry Cant Swim.

RTE broadcaster Miriam OCallaghan, podcaster Blindboy and comedian Rosie ODonnell will be among those making appearances at the six Mindfield stages, where podcasting, comedy and more will be on show.

Where can I get a ticket?

Tickets for Electric Picnic sold out months in advance, with the festival organisers warning any remaining hopefuls to be aware of any ticket scams.

Anyone looking to secure a last-minute ticket have been reminded that Ticketmaster is the only authorised ticket agent for the festival, with organisers urging them not to buy from internet auction sites, from a website with an overseas office address or with no registered address shown, from another individual or tout, either in advance or outside the event.

Do not buy a ticket online without seeing its face value. Do not pay more than the authorised standard booking fee per ticket. These are displayed on Ticketmaster, they advised.

Read more Electric Picnic invites budding musicians to perform on festivals newest stage

If you ignore these pointers you are likely to pay a lot of money for something worthless as your ticket will be invalid."

How do I get to Electric Picnic?

If driving to the festival, attendees should follow event signage and directions from gardai and not sat nav, organisers say.

There are different routes into the festival depending on mode of transport, the direction people are travelling from and the type of ticket they hold.

Buses will be travelling from across the country, with all available services listed by county on the Electric Picnic website.

When can I arrive at Electric Picnic?

Early ticket holders can enter from 2pm on Thursday, while all other ticket holders can enter from 9am on Friday.

What do I need to bring  and what am I not allowed to bring?

Festival organisers have provided a checklist for ticket holders, reminding them to not bring more than you need as they will need to take it back home again. Most things can be bought on site if necessary, they add.

Other essential include an entry ticket and ID, any required medication, clothing for all weather, comfortable footwear, camping equipment including a sleeping bag and ground mat and refuse sacks for rubbish.

Certain items are not allowed on the grounds, including megaphones, bicycles, drones, fireworks, flares, flagpoles, gas canisters, generators, glass items over 100ml, sky lanterns and professional cameras.

All bars, food traders, and non food traders will be operating as cashless only.

Festival goers are allowed to bring alcohol for personal consumption to the campsite, though there is a limit of 48 cans per person as excessive amounts of food, cigarettes and alcohol may be refused entry to the site.

Where do I pitch my tent? Are there new campsites?

The pre-existing campsites named after musical and cultural icons Jimi Hendrix, Samuel Beckett, Andy Warhol, Eriu and Janis Joplin will return to Electric Picnic this year, but will be upgraded to include more showers, toilets and Get Ready with Me stations with mirrors and plugs for straighteners and hairdryers.

New pre-booked options were also introduced this year, allowing campers to register via the Electric Picnic website to ensure there is sufficient space for their tent in their preferred campsite.

These sites include the brand-new Glitterball Campsite, the reformatted Poets Camp and the existing Eco and An Lathair Ghaeltachta.

The Jimi Hendrix, Samuel Beckett, Andy Warhol, Eriu and Janis Joplin campsites require no reservation.

What stages are at the festival this year?

There are many stages at Electric Picnic, including the Main Stage and favourites like Fishtown and Trenchtown. The trailer park of themed mobile homes, which have in the past included a shrine to Daniel ODonnell and a nest of seagulls who chased passersby for their chips, will also return.

The six Mindfield Stages, which include Leviathan: Political Cabaret, Manifesto, Ah, Hear Podcast, The Theatre, The Word and An Puball Gaeilge, will host debating, podcasting, poetry and music throughout the weekend.
80 years on from Victory over Japan Day, survivors of the last brutal months of WWII in Asia give their first-hand accounts, in Rachel Burdens excellent film

Field Marshal William Joseph 'Bill' Slim (right) led the 14th Army, the so-called 'forgotten army', in the Burma campaign. Photo: Universal Images/Getty

Members of the British forces search for Japanese soldiers in Burma (now Myanmar), in the final months before VJ Day in 1945. Photo: Getty Images

One of the most poignant moments in the documentary VJ Day 80: We Were There (BBC2, Wednesday, August 13) is also one of its most understated.

Its a simple on-screen coda listing the names of 10 contributors to the film who have since died.

Given that the interviews were conducted over a six-year period, when some were nearing or had already passed the age of 100, it was inevitable not all of them would still be with us when the programme was broadcast.

If anything, this just underlines the importance of the documentary, which is the latest in Rachel Burdens excellent series of oral histories.

Television documentaries about the war tend to be heavily weighted in favour of the European conflict. The result is that the war in the Far East and the Pacific  which raged on until August 15, 1945, four months after Germany surrendered, and was characterised by some of the most savage fighting of the whole conflict  is often relegated in the public mind.

What did it matter to us if the German war started or finished?

The outbreak of jubilation on VE Day wasnt shared by many of the battle-weary combatants who, having helped defeat Germany, found themselves shipped out to fight the Japanese.

What did it matter to us if the German war started or finished? says Reg Holbrook, who served with the fleet air arm. We were thousands of miles away.

The first that James Fenton of the royal artillery heard of the war in Europe being won was when he received a letter from his brother describing the VE Day celebrations in the streets.

Adrian Rouse, an officer with the British Indian army who joined up with a group of borstal boys from Wolverhampton (I learned a lot from them, he says, including how to pick locks), recalls that when the news came through, everyone got a bit pissed. Then it was back to the fighting.

The Japanese attack on Pearl Habour in 1941 was the turning point that finally pushed America into joining the war. Forty minutes earlier, however, the Japanese had launched the invasion of Malaya (now Malaysia).

Royal marine Jim Wren, then just 21, was on a battle cruiser when it was hit by a bomb. Luckily for him, it crashed through three decks before exploding.

It was every man for himself, says Wren, who spent a couple of hours floating in the ocean after the cruiser tipped over.

105-year-old Royal Marines veteran James 'Jim' Wren. Photo: PA Images via Getty

Hundreds of men, his comrades and friends, died. Wren looks at the floor and quietly says: Ill never forget them. For these people, the horrific experiences of a lifetime ago are as vivid as if theyd happened yesterday.

The fighting in Singapore, Hong Kong and Rangoon, the capital of Burma (now Myanmar), all of which fell to the Japanese, was brutal.

The terrain was difficult, the heat was unbearable, there were snakes everywhere, dysentery and malaria were rampant, and the Japanese were a particularly vicious enemy.

Their attacks were pretty much suicidal, says Robin Rowland, then a young officer with the 14th Army, led by Lieutenant-General William Slim. The Japanese didnt take prisoners. In one especially barbaric incident, they bayonetted every patient at a field hospital.

The tide of war in Burma was turned by the 14th, which was the most multicultural, multi faith military force ever assembled.

Field Marshal William Joseph 'Bill' Slim (right) led the 14th Army, the so-called 'forgotten army', in the Burma campaign. Photo: Universal Images/Getty

The immensity of its achievements havent always been acknowledged, though, which is why its often referred to as the forgotten army that fought the forgotten war.

Away from the heat of battle, the worst atrocities were inflicted on the captured soldiers used as slave labour to build the Thai-Burma railway. In total, 100,000 died, often from exhaustion and starvation.

The testimonies of those held for years in internment camps, such as Olga Henderson, who was 10 when she and her family were captured, are no less shocking than those of the combatants.

Henderson recalls crossing a bridge and being horrified by the sight of the heads of Allied soldiers which the Japanese had stuck on spikes.

In the closing moments of this remarkable documentary, past and present fuse for Henderson when she talks about recently seeing an image on TV of a young girl begging for food, just as she once had to.

She breaks down. What have we done? she sobs. What are we doing to the world? Nothing has changed.
Minister Martin Heydon TD announces the opening of the 2025 Beef Welfare Scheme, offering suckler farmers up to 225 per cow/calf pair for combined participation with the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme.

Suckler farmers could earn up to 225 per cow/calf pair if they participate in both the Beef Welfare Scheme (BWS) and the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP), Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD confirmed today as he opened applications for the 2025 BWS.

The standalone Beef Welfare Scheme offers payments of up to 35 per eligible calf, with a maximum of 45 calves per herd, an increase from 40 last year. Additional optional payments include 15 per calf for vaccination against clostridial diseases and/or calf pneumonia, and 25 per calf for faecal or forage testing.

Minister Heydon said: This years scheme represents a substantial increase in funding for suckler farmers. The measures are practical and aimed at optimising calf performance throughout its lifetime, while supporting the economic efficiency and welfare standards of the herd.

The BWS is open to farmers aged 18 or over with an active herd number, who have eligible suckler calves born between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025, and who submit a 2025 Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) application.

Applications must be made online via agfood.ie by 11.59pm on 24 September 2025. Payments for validated applications will commence in December 2025. Farmers should keep receipts for meal feeding, vaccination, and testing, as these may be requested to facilitate payment.

The IFA has sought removal of the upper limit on eligible animals per herd, warning that the cap restricts the schemes benefits for larger suckler farms.

Payments are available through three actions:

Action 1  Meal Feeding (Mandatory): 35 per eligible calf for up to 45 calves. Calves must be meal-fed for four weeks pre-weaning and two weeks post-weaning to reduce stress at weaning.

Action 2  Vaccination (Optional): 15 per eligible calf for up to 45 calves. Vaccinations must cover clostridial diseases and/or calf pneumonia, with records kept for submission.

Action 3  Faecal or Forage Testing (Optional): 25 per eligible calf for up to 45 calves. Farmers may carry out two faecal tests at least four weeks apart, or submit three forage samples for analysis.

Full terms and conditions, including penalties for non-compliance, are available on agfood.ie.
Midlands man (64) had been arrested alongside his son

An Irishman has died in Ecuador, where he was being held in prison following a 600,000 cocaine smuggling bust.

The 64-year-old and his son, who are from the midlands, were arrested earlier this month at Guayaquil Airport and allegedly found in possession of 15kg of cocaine that was being transported to Madrid.
The different kinds of jellyfish in Irish waters  when to look out for them and how to treat stings
Former SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has revealed that he is in a relationship with the previous shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Louise Haigh.

The MP for Foyle said that following the breakup of his marriage, both he and his ex-wife are happy with new partners.
US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet at the Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson in Anchorage, Alaska, CNN has reported.

As the publication notes, the United States faced the problem of the peak tourist season in Alaska. That is why the options available and equipped to host the two world leaders were severely limited.

It is reported that the organizers of the meeting came to the conclusion that the only city in Alaska with viable options for the summit would be Anchorage.

"And only the base, located on the northern outskirts of the city, would meet the requirements for the historic meeting, although the White House hoped to avoid the optics of placing the Russian leader and his entourage at a US military base," the publication writes, citing sources in the White House.

As reported, Trump intends to focus on ending the war in Ukraine at his meeting with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, August 15. Other topics are not a priority, White House spokeswoman Caroline Levitt said on Tuesday.
How a log chalet home led to a 10-year planning row between three siblings

Edwina Brady was granted retention, but the case has now been appealed to An Coimisiun Pleanala by her brothers

Siblings locked in planning dispute over log cabin at south Dublin home.

Amy Molloy Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 06:30

A 73-year-old woman who was granted retention for her log chalet home is locked in a planning dispute after her two brothers objected to the decision.
The Perseids have peaked, but the meteor shower will continue to be visible over Ireland.

The peak of the annual Perseid meteor showers came and went on Tuesday night, but anyone who missed out still has a chance to see a dazzling light show.
The countdown for the two sold-out Oasis gigs in Croke Park continues, with founding band member Paul Bonehead Arthurs sharing a photo of the Dublin coastline as the band prepares to touch down in Ireland for the first time since 2009.
Conor McGregor - one of the potential fighters - with Donald Trump in the White House on March 17. Photo: White House

UFC chief executive Dana White has said that there will be a cage fight on the south lawn of the White House as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the US.
Vogue Williams on new Heinz study which finds children in Ireland crave more family connection at mealtimes

Interview with Vogue Williams, Heinz and Barnardos ambassador, who discusses a Heinz study which has revealed that 88% of Kids in Ireland crave family connection during mealtimes, but instead many are on their phones or watching TV.
Donald Trump sees more gains in keeping Russia close than in maintaining bonds built up over 70 years since World War II. Photo: Getty

European leaders will speak today with Donald Trump about his summit with Vladimir Putin on Friday, but the real talking will be done in Alaska, when the US and Russian leaders sit down.

Yet neither Europe, nor Ukraine, will be involved in the conversation, though the future of both will be on the table. That Europe is locked out, despite the stakes involved, is troubling, but not surprising. The temperature in Anchorage this week may be 20C, but the leaders of Germany, France, Italy and the UK have long known they have been getting the cold shoulder.

Mr Trump sees more gains in keeping Russia close than in maintaining bonds built up over 80 years since the end of World War II. European allies have been pressing for a ceasefire freezing the current front line as a first step ahead of talks on a more enduring settlement. But Washington had other plans. Moscow insisted Ukraine must cede its entire eastern Donbas area as well as Crimea, illegally annexed in 2014, as a ceasefire condition. This week, EU leaders issued a somewhat forlorn statement saying: The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future.

It added that the principles of territorial integrity must be respected and international borders must not be changed by force. But Mr Trump has already made clear that he expects territories will be swapped.

The nervousness surrounding Fridays meeting is understandable, especially in countries bordering Russia. So far, Putin has been offered everything without conceding anything. An illegal invasion has been rewarded.

Permitting Putin to take all he wants puts Ukraine and the whole continent at risk

An International Criminal Court warrant was issued for Putin on March 17, 2023, following an investigation of crimes against humanity and genocide, yet he is to be welcomed in the US.

It ought to be remembered that most of Europes borders were drawn in the blood of war. Since the Yalta conference in 1945 (involving the US, UK and Russia), when a post-war peace rooted a collective security order and a plan to give self-determination to the liberated peoples of Europe was put in place, some kind of stability prevailed.

Whatever comes out of Fridays meeting, without cast-iron commitments from the Russian leader, Europe and Ukraine have everything to fear.

Mr Trumps ambition to end the war is laudable, but permitting Putin to take all he wants puts Ukraine and the whole continent at risk. There is acceptance that concessions will have to be made by Kyiv, but that must involve discussing, not dictating, terms. Dissecting a sovereign country against its will would be a disastrous outcome.

Nato chief Mark Rutte has said territory would have to be on the table, along with security guarantees for Ukraine, but how do you rate a pact with someone who does not recognise international law?

Any deal that Moscow could flip on a whim after securing Mr Trumps embrace might put a dent in American credibility. But it could undermine the security of both Europe and Ukraine.
On January 10, 2009, the Irish Independent carried an article by Medb Ruane, the headline of which was Is it possible to put an end to behaviour which has existed throughout history by means of photography?.

During this summer of 2025, I read a piece shared on Facebook in which the French foreign minister urged Israel to allow foreign press into the Gaza Strip. The words Bear witness stare out at me from my screen.

We have all seen images and documentary evidence of Gaza and the horrors that are being inflicted on the Palestinian people.

I have had fear and concern about sharing images and reports, not because of the shock and dismay this brings into our comfortable homes (I believe we should be awake and informed), but because I worried that sharing these images and reports might mean that reporters are targeted  which, by all accounts and most recent attacks, suggest they are.

If the answer to Medb Ruanes question was no, then reporters and photographers from outside would have the freedom to do their job in safety.

I believe the answer to her question is most definitely yes, because exposure through the power of the lens and pen is something that a genocidal regime would have obvious fears about.

Margaret OBrien, Nenagh, Co Tipperary

US needs to take control of its own future and stop playing the short game

Looking at what is happening in the US isnt politics as we used to know it.

Its more like a card game in which the players are spending money they dont have, knowing theyll be gone before the bill arrives. Leaders grab what they can today and leave the mess for someone else tomorrow.

Take the latest in Washington DC. Donald Trump declares crime is out of control, sending federal agents and National Guard troops to stop violent crime and pushing to charge teenagers as young as 14 as adults (Donald Trump claims crime in Washington DC is out of control. Heres what the data shows, Irish Independent, August 12).

Yet official data show juvenile arrests in DC are down nearly 20pc this year, violent crime is falling and homicide rates are at multi-decade lows nationally.

The out of control narrative is largely a political performance that obscures the reality, but that doesnt mean serious problems dont exist.

Bit by bit, the US government is being hollowed out, markets are left to run wild and ordinary people are left with fewer tools to deal with big problems like climate change and disappearing jobs. People end up tired, distracted and too busy to look ahead.

If nothing changes, America will split in two. One side will be wealthy and mobile, taking advantage of new technology and global markets, while the other will be stuck with climate disasters, fewer jobs and crumbling services. The gap will grow until each side might as well be living in a different country.

Ireland has learnt the hard way that if you dont take control of your own future, someone else will  and they wont do it for your benefit.

America has to decide soon whether to keep playing the short game or start building something that lasts.

Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Armagh

Fair play, Charlie Weston, for highlighting forever rising cost of electricity

Charlie Weston is doing us all some service with his persistence in highlighting the excessive cost of electricity and the dreadful misery being inflicted on many households as a consequence (Fears of arrears crisis as record number of families are three months or more behind on energy bills, August 12)

But it seems that no one in the Government is listening, and certainly no one seems to want to discuss the elephant in the room  the negative impact on charges that the decision to transform this natural monopoly into an artificial, competitive market has had.

As pointed out before, when electricity was generated and supplied by a single semi-state entity, the ESB, Ireland enjoyed the lowest electricity charges in Europe.

The reason is very simple: in the privatised scenario, householders are not only having to pay the cost of generation and supply as they did under the semi-state ESB, but on top of that they now must fund the profit margin, the multiple CEOs and duplicated management structures and, by far the most outrageous, the cost of all the advertising we see every night on our TVs as the various entities now sitting between the customer and access to electricity compete for our attention at our expense.

Surely with such a vital social good, such a waste is indefensible.

The failure to properly debate the decision to outsource this vital service at the time meant that citizens were essentially in the dark.

Jim OSullivan, Rathedmond

False promises of more gardai on beat when there arent enough in the force

My motorbike was stolen last evening outside my work premises in Artane.

Many of us have experienced that dreaded feeling of walking out and discovering that your car or motorbike has been taken and, most likely, burnt out or otherwise destroyed.

The gardai were brilliant and did everything in their power to get it back, but, unfortunately, when dealing with stolen bikes their hands are tied.

The political lip service is to get more gardai on the streets while knowing there arent enough officers to patrol the country as a whole. I can understand why young people dont want to join the force when every action is scrutinised and videoed.

On a recent trip to Cardiff on my motorbike, I noted that it is a very safe city to walk around as they have employed city wardens, akin to the security people on the Dart, who wear hi-vis jackets and patrol the city centre in small groups during the day and on Friday and Saturday evenings, helping tourists and dealing with anti-social behaviour.

Basically, they are a step down from the gardai, but bring a feeling of security.

Aidan Hampson, Artane, Dublin

Why am I always 12th in the telephone queue when calling our state services?

It is amusing that when you ring any of our state services, the first thing you hear is that we are experiencing an unusually high volume of calls.

I phoned a public body at 1.30pm on Monday and was told I was 12th in the queue, so I rang off. I rang again at 4pm to again be told I was still in 12th place. That 11th caller must be some yapper.

Tom Gilsenan, Beaumont, Dublin 9
Zelenskyy holds more than 30 conversations, consultations with partners: there is no sign that Russia is preparing to end war

Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported that he held a series of consultations with partners on ending the war, following which he stressed the need to continue pressure on Russia to achieve this goal.

"These days, more than 30 conversations and consultations with partners have taken place. Different parts of the world, different visions, but common positions. We must end this war. We must put pressure on Russia for the sake of an honest peace. We must learn from the experience of Ukraine, our partners, to prevent deception by Russia," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram on Wednesday.

He noted that "there is currently no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war."

"Our coordinated efforts and joint steps - of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, all countries that want peace - can definitely force Russia to make peace," the Ukrainian head of state added.
This week on The Indo Daily, we are revisiting some of our favourite mini-series we produced in 2025 so far. Today we begin the first of our two-part special, Behind Closed Doors which was first released on April 23rd;
Antoinette Coster still replays the last moment she saw her son alive over and over again in her head.

What started off as a normal day in June, quickly turned into the worst day of Antoinettes life.

"On the day Peter died, on June 17, he was helping me around the house, Antoinette told the Irish Independent. He had emptied the dishwasher and taken out the bins.

"When he headed out the front door to meet his friends, we have a recording of him on our ring door bell as he walks out of the house for the very last time. He was singing and whistling and shouting over to the lads across the road.

"He was full of life and completely unaware of what was to come.

Tuesday June 17, 2025 was a humid summers day as people from across Ireland travelled to their nearest body of water, whether that was a river or the sea, to enjoy the sunshine and a cooling swim.

Peter and his friends had the same idea. The only difference was, Peter never came home.

Peter Byrne was due to celebrate his 18th birthday in March

The 17-year-old was swimming in the River Barrow at Cloghristick in Milford, Co Carlow with his friends when he got into difficulty.

His friends tried their best to save him, but the river was too strong and pulled Peter under.

"Peters friends really tried their best to save him, god help them, said Antoinette. If you stand and look at the river, it really is the most scary part of that river.

"If you stand on the bank and look, the river actually splits in two. One side of the river goes down one side and the other part of the river goes down another side. You can actually see the swirls in the water. Its quite frightening.

As soon as Peter got into difficulty, his friends raised the alarm and emergency services including ambulance, fire brigade, gardai and the Garda Water Unit rushed to the scene and a search for the teenager began.

Peters body was recovered five hours later at 11.30pm that night by divers from the Garda Water Unit within a 10 metre radius of where he went under.

Antoinette and her family had to wait four excruciatingly long days to be reunited with Peters body. During those four days, Antoinette kept herself busy and her mind distracted by working hard to ensure that no other family feels the same pain that accompanies the loss of a loved one who has drowned.

"We had to wait four days to get Peter back and I just had to keep myself as busy as possible, recalled Antoinette. I would have turned the house upside down in the few days that followed Peters death if I sat at home and did nothing.

"There are seriously not enough life buoys along rivers so on the Wednesday and Thursday after Peter died I spent the two days sending emails and ringing the council and I actually managed to get a life buoy and big no swimming sign put out where Peter went into the water.

"Hopefully by having that lifebuoy and warning sign there now, no other family will feel the pain we have. But there still needs to be more life buoys along that river.

At the end of the day, kids are kids, so even if you tell them not to go swimming they still might go swimming so that is why it is so important to have as much safety infrastructure in place around rivers.

"Could a life buoy have saved Peter? We will never know that answer. But it makes me feel so much better to know there is a life buoy there now in case someone else does get into difficulty.

Nearly two months have passed since Peters tragic death and the family are now faced with a large funeral bill that they are struggling to pay.

Follow Independent Carlow on Facebook

Additionally, the family havent been able to afford to put a proper headstone on Peters grave. With what would have been Peters 18th birthday quickly approaching, the family are determined to have a headstone in place in time for Peters milestone birthday.

Money is really tight for us and we wouldnt have been the richest before all this happened anyways and we just got the funeral bill and it is coming in about 20 short of 8,000 which is money we just do not have, explained Antoinette.

"We also are trying to raise money to get a headstone for Peters 18th birthday which will be in March. At the moment we just have a little wooden cross with his details marking his grave but we want to be able to give him a proper headstone which is also working out as very expensive.

A Go Fund Me page has been launched to help the family pay the funeral bill and for a headstone for Peters grave in time for what would have been Peters birthday in March.

Peter Byrne was due to celebrate his 18th birthday in March

Peter left behind his mother, Antoinette; his father, Stephen; his step-father, Dermot; his twin brother, Quintan; his brothers and sisters, Margaret, Kellie-Anna, Erin and Scott; his grandparents and a large group of friends who all mourn the teenager who once brought so much light to their lives.

Thank you so much to everyone who has donated so far. Your support means everything.

Peter touched the hearts of every single person that he met, said Antoinette, her face breaking out into a small smile as she paused to remember her son. He made everyone laugh and was always up for the craic.

"He was just so loved by everyone and we all miss him so much.

If you want to donate to the Go Fund Me page to help cover the cost of Peters funeral and headstone you can click here
A District Court judge has demanded the probation services work with a North Cork man, despite a report saying that they believed he was not suitable to work with.

Thomas Shinnick (26), with a previous address in Charleville, was in front of Mallow District Court and was due to face penalty on charges of public order, related to an incident on public transport.

In July, Judge Colm Roberts said that Mr Shinnick has the capacity to freak people out and frighten people., and adjourned his decision on penalty, after the court heard Mr Shinnick had previously been excluded from working with the Probation Service following an alleged incident of criminal damage at the probation offices.

Defence solicitor David OMeara outlined the case to Judge Treasa Kelly, who asked Mr OMeara whether his client had seen the Probation Service in custody, to which he replied, I am not aware of that.

Appearing from Cork prison, Mr Shinnick was then asked by Judge Treasa Kelly whether he had been seen by the Probation Service since arriving in custody in July, to which he shook his head.

Mr Shinnick was also asked by his solicitor whether he had any contact with the service since July 22, to which he shook his head again.

He will have to see the Probation Services, but online, said the Judge, who remanded Mr Shinnick in custody to appear again on September 2 in front of Judge Roberts via video link.

Presenting guard Majella OSullivan reminded the judge that there was a report from the Probation Service saying that Mr Shinnick is not suitable to work with which was subsequently read by the judge.

Even so, while in custody. Probation services have to work with him while hes in custody, said Judge Kelly.

The Probation Service will now be notified to work with the accused while hes in custody.

Thats very important. You can get help quicker by working with probation services in custody, but you have to have respect for them, Judge Kelly told Mr Shinnick.
New Brass Kings bring jazz to the streets of Cork as part of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.

BoolaBoom performing at the programme launch of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival which takes place from the 24th - 28th October. Pics: Darragh Kane

Cymande, JP Cooper, Orchestra Baobab, and The Pharcyde lead the first wave of acts for the annual Jazz Festival which runs from Thursday, October 23 to Monday, October 27.

The renowned five-day event has attracted top-tier artists and devoted fans for over 47 years.

The festival is known for combining electrifying performances from jazz legends with statement sets from contemporary standard-bearers and trendsetters pushing the boundaries of the genre such as Damon Albarn, Macy Gray, Kamasi Washington and De La Soul, who have all played at the festival.

The festivals unprecedented access to such an eclectic mix of artists has made it the largest music-centered city celebration in Ireland.

Over the past few years, more than 100,000 visitors have headed to Cork City for the festivities, and attracts over 500 musicians for 100 events in almost 80 venues.

The first round of acts has been announced for the 2025 Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, with an eclectic and exciting mix of genre-defining legends and emerging Irish talent set to take over the city.

Cymande will visit Cork for the first time. The group who formed in the 70s will be celebrating their first album in ten years, Renascence.

JP Cooper, known for his soulful vocals and crossover hits, adds a rich, contemporary flavour to the weekend.

Meanwhile, legendary Senegalese band Orchestra Baobab will take to the Cork Opera house stage with their signature blend of West African and Afro Cuban brass arrangements, soulful harmonies and rhythmic intensity.

A festival highlight will be The Pharcyde, marking 30 years of Labcabincalifornia.

The influential LA hip-hop group will revisit their jazz-soaked second album  produced in part by the late J Dilla  in a celebratory set blending nostalgia, innovation and golden-era lyricism.

Guinness Cork Jazz continues to champion boundary-pushing collaborations.

Sienna Spiro adds her dreamy alt-jazz to the mix, and a special performance by poet and activist Saul Williams alongside acclaimed Andre 3000 producer Carlos Nino, known for his expansive cosmic jazz and deeply textured sound.

From there, the line-up moves boldly across genres: Jeff Mills presents Tomorrow Comes the Harvest, an exploration of techno-meets-jazz improvisation; Ross From Friends brings his Bubble Love set, blending lo-fi electronics and soulful textures.

Theyll be joined by Norways Dublon who is coined as the next big thing in the Jazz House wave.

Cinematic soul takes centre stage with the Adrian Younge Orchestra, and by vintage soul revivalists Annie & The Caldwells.

Returning favourites Hypnotic Brass Ensemble always bring the heat, while roots reggae legends The Congos and exciting genre-blurring Irish rapper Khakikid add deep rhythm and raw energy.

Le Boom bring back some high-energy matinees, always a sellout!

Also appearing: soulful newcomers and powerful Irish voices like God Knows, Zaska, Winnie Ama, Toshin and Melina Malone, while Tom Keating is hosting a number of shows at Cork City Hall.

Beyond the ticketed shows, the city will once again come alive with the Guinness Music Trail, a free programme of live music across nearly 80 pubs and venues throughout the city and beyond.

The festival also spills into the streets with surprise pop-up gigs, and brass bands bringing the rhythm directly to the people with The Big Fringe.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is more than an event  its a legacy and a culture, said Festival Director Mark Murphy. Were thrilled to bring another great line-up to Cork this October.

Rory Sheridan, Head of Partnerships for Diageo said: This iconic festival brings people together through incredible music, culture, and community spirit  values that are at the heart of Guinness. We look forward to another unforgettable October weekend in Cork.

Bookings open this Thursday, August 14 at 10am on guinnesscorkjazz.com and tickets will go on sale this Friday, August 15.
The recent arrival of Noble Caledonias Island Sky to Baltimore marked the first time a cruise ship has called to the harbour.

Many of the ships 90 passengers transferred to Baltimore in the morning, and then to Sherkin Island in the afternoon.

They remained in the local area, and availed of activities including walking tours focused on Baltimores maritime heritage, and visits to the wonderful studios on Sherkin, the island of the arts.

The cruise passengers and members of the ships 81-strong crew also had time to explore Baltimore and Sherkin for themselves, browsing crafts and enjoying West Corks food and drink, as well as meeting the locals.

The Island Sky, a luxurious small expedition cruise ship, provided a point of interest for visitors and locals throughout the day, as it nestled in Baltimores large natural harbour, which is formed partly by the islands of the archipelago known as Carberys Hundred Isles.

On leaving Baltimore, the ship made the short journey along the West Cork coast to Bere Island.

Passengers were treated to tours taking in the Lonehort Battery, the Martello Tower and Bere Island Heritage Centre, and they were given the opportunity to learn about the islands history.

They finished off the day with some live music and a drink in Dessies Bar.

Cllr Caroline Cronin, Chairperson of the West Cork Municipal District, and officials from Cork County Council, were welcomed onboard by the ships Captain for a formal gift exchange to mark the ships inaugural visit to Baltimore Harbour.

Cllr Caroline Cronin stated: I am delighted to be associated with this inaugural cruise call to Baltimore. Approximately 4,000 cruise passengers are expected to visit Cork County Councils harbours in 2025, contributing to the local economy and supporting our tourism industry, while showcasing what makes County Cork so special to a growing number of international visitors.

Cork County Council staff were also on hand on the day to greet passengers and crew, hand out maps and brochures, and provide guidance to ensure visitors enjoyed their visit to the area.

The ships 12-day Wild Ireland tour, is tracing the rugged coastline of Ireland, visiting the Skelligs, Galway, the Aran Islands, and Killybegs among other ports before passengers disembark in Liverpool.

The visit is part of a busy cruise season across the Councils ports.

Inaugural calls at Youghal and Ballycotton are among the record 25 cruise visits planned for 2025, with Schull, Kinsale, and Bere Island receiving repeat visits as County Corks reputation as a distinctive cruise destination grows.
Irish Rail has announced additional services for Munster fans of Oasis as the Manchester band take on Croke Park this weekend.

The additional services include an 8am train from Cork Kent to Heuston Station and a 10.15am service from Waterford to Heuston Station on Saturday, August 16.

Services back to Munster will begin at 12.40am on Sunday morning from Heuston Station to Cork Kent.

Limerick-bound Oasis fans can take that service to Limerick Junction, which will leave for Limerick Colbert at 2.10am.

Those attending Oasis on the Sunday can catch the 7:45am service from Cork Kent to Heuston Station or the 10:45am service from Waterford to Heuston Station.

Monday morning services from Heuston Station start at 12:40am, which is Cork Kent bound. The Limerick Junction stop on this service will serve those heading back to Limerick.

Irish Rail have urged customers to book their seat as soon as possible as some services are already sold out.

After a 16-year hiatus, Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, are back on stage together and will play two sold-out shows here on August 16 and 17.

The band began their tour on July 4 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, and their tour so far has seen the band play five hometown gigs at Heaton Park in Manchester, five nights at Wembley Stadium in London and they will play their third and final night in Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh this evening.

After their two nights in Croker, Oasis will head across the pond for two nights in Rogers Stadium in Toronto on August 24 and 25.

Tickets for Irish Rail services can be bought via irishrail.ie.
Summer Sessions 2025 is returning to Letterkenny, Co. Donegal from Saturday, August 16 with special guests alongside The Saw Doctors announced to take the stage.

The Saw Doctors are set play two sold out gigs in Cork and Dublin so their session in Letterkenny might be your lucky third chance to see them perform live.

The anticipated sessions will continue over the course of August ending the summer on a high note with hopefully some more good weather thrown into the mix to see it through.

The 4 Of Us and Gearoid McCarthy will be bringing their best over the weekend with many more exciting guests to come each week for the rest of the month including Picture This on August 22 and August 23.

Picture This

The Human League will perform on Thursday, August 21 with Kershaw and the Undertones and the inaugural Memories event on Sunday August 24 promises to bring the nostalgia with live performances from Cascada, B Witched, DJ Sammy, Whigfielld and many more.

The Human League with Nik Kershaw and The Undertones

Sundays event will also feature the best ingredients for a memorable weekend including boutique food vendors, cocktail bars and karaoke.
A Palestinian dessert company, which started taking online orders during Covid, has opened its first fixed business location in Dublin.

Kanafeh Kingz is owned by Anas Khaled (27), who is originally from Palestine but has lived in Tallaght since he was 3 years old.

The business has now opened at the Coolmine Industrial Estate in Blanchardstown, creating desserts that feel like home for the people of Dublin.

We serve authentic Palestinian desserts, tea and specialty drinks, like melted hot chocolates and Turkish coffees, Mr Khaled said.

The main seller is Kanafeh, a traditional Arabic dessert which consists of stringy dough with a cheese filling, sugar syrup and pistachios on top.

Mr Khaled said much of the inspiration for Kanafeh Kingz came from a sense of pride for his native Palestine.

 A big part of my identity, our culture, our food and me entering the food business, was about sharing a dish that I loved so much, he said

I loved when my mom used to make us Kanafeh, it was like a celebration. Because it wasnt something that we would have very often.

Mr Khaled has said business has been going brilliantly.

I started Kanafeh Kings in July 2020, we were doing catering orders. In April 2021, I opened my first food truck, and at the end of April 2022, we had a second.

We opened in Coolmine in mid-June. Its been going good so far. Were receiving a lot of good feedback and seeing lots of new faces, its exciting.

Mr Khaleds family became displaced from Palestine and sought refuge in Jordan before he was born, but he is incredibly proud of his Palestinian roots.

Weve got to keep pushing through our food, our culture, everything that we do to make sure the identity of Palestine remains and becomes recognised by the world, he said.

 Every Kanafeh we make and serve is a representation of our Palestinian history, our identity.

Growing up in Ireland, it wasnt something that was easily accessible, so to be able to provide that now for all of Dublin is amazing, he added.

Mr Khaled has said the addition of a fixed location has been really exciting for the business.

 Weve been now operating for five years. To have a fixed location where we can show more than just the food is exciting, he said.

Our seating area has been specifically designed to show a kind of Palestinian culture and a touch of home.

Mr Khaled said he hopes to one day be able to return to Palestine and open a similar dessert shop there. But for now, he is carving out his own little piece of home in north Dublin.

Once you enter its like youre entering Jerusalem. Thats the cool thing about it, youre entering Palestine and eating a Palestinian dessert, he said.
Commuters are facing delays across some rail services this morning.

Irish rail have suspended its service between Clonsilla and Coolmines as staff work to rectify and earlier signalling issue.

Irish Rail have also warned that the issue is also causing delays on the Hazelhatch to Grand Canal service.

The delays are currently slowing rail services down by 28 minutes. Rail staff are now on-site for the issue.

Rail services on the M3 Parkway and Docklands service are now operating between M3 Parkway and Clonsilla.

Services are operating between Maynooth and Connolly this morning with delays due to the signalling issue between Clonsilla and Coolmines.

Dublin Bus are honouring rail tickets in the affected area.

More to follow
Katie Joyce from Beale pictured with her dad Billy, her mom Betty, her sister Ava and her brother Jamie after she won big at the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford at the weekend.

Katie Joyce getting a heroes welcome in Ballybunion on Monday night.

15-year-old Katie Joyce from Beale pictured being interviewed by TG4 after she won the Leo Griffin Memorial Trophy.

The streets of Ballybunion were lined with people on Monday evening as the town welcomed back 15-year-old Beale native Katie Joyce following her big win at the recent All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford.

Katie won the 12-15 Mouth Organ competition which took place on Friday night.

The talented young North Kerry multi-instrumentalist is a member of Ballybunion Comhaltas and she was the pride of the town this week after she brought home the Leo Griffin Memorial Trophy.

We were so delighted with the turnout in Ballybunion on Monday night. The girls were shocked that there were so many people that came out and lined the streets, Finola Fogarty, Chairperson of Ballybunion Comhaltas, told The Kerryman.

Katies mom Betty is from Scartaglen originally and so loads of people from Scart came over to see her home as well.

We had a Garda escort from Doon Church down Doon Road and then onto Main Street. We had a lovely celebration dinner then in Mikey Joes that was full of tunes, Finola continued.

Finola also expressed her and the rest of the groups pride at Katies fantastic performances.

Were so proud of Katie for her achievements in winning the mouth organ competition. It was a great weekend and shes had a fantastic time. We all enjoyed a really fantastic time in Wexford, she said.

They - Katie and another member of Ballybunion Comhaltas, Saoirse - then had a meitheal performance on the Thursday night.and they both did a fantastic job

Katie had her competition then on Friday and its here that she had to play two contrasting tunes. They [the judges] commented on the lovely variation and the lovely bounce that she played the tunes with , said Finola.

After this then, Finola revealed that Katie appeared on Fleadh TV so that was really fabulous.

In all, it was a fantastic few days for Kerry performers at the Fleadh with wins in multiple categories including the piano (Grace Angland - CCE, Glenflesk), the button accordion (Eoin Foley - CCE, Kilcummin) and Scealaiocht (Neansai Ni Chonchuir - CCE, Craobh Thra Li).

A full list of the Fleadh results can be found here: https://results.fleadhcheoil.ie/
Photo: Unsplash

The Embassy of Ukraine in Poland has sent official requests to the Polish competent authorities regarding 57 Ukrainian citizens detained after a concert at the National Stadium in Warsaw on August 9 and against whom deportation proceedings have been initiated from the territory of the host country.

"The Embassy promptly sent official requests to the competent authorities to clarify the details of the case. Currently, the detention of Ukrainian citizens born in 1995, 2002 and 2005 has been confirmed. Polish law enforcement officers accuse them of acts of aggression, clashes with personnel and demonstration of symbols prohibited by Polish law. The case is under special control of the Embassy of Ukraine in Poland," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry told journalists on Wednesday.

As reported, Poland has begun the deportation procedure of 63 people who participated in riots and fights during a concert by Belarusian rapper Max Korzh at the National Stadium in Warsaw, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said. According to him, this group includes 57 Ukrainians and six Belarusians.

Polish media reports that during the concert of the Belarusian rapper, some of the audience began to jump over barriers to get from the stands to the stadium floor. Several participants in the riots fought with security and stewards, and also lit fireworks. In addition, the flag of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, prohibited by Polish law, appeared in the stands.

In total, the police detained 109 people during the concert. This was reportedly due to a number of misdemeanors and offenses, such as drug possession, violation of the physical integrity of security personnel, possession and carrying of pyrotechnics, and trespassing on the territory of a mass event. The police fined 50 people for a total of PLN 11,450.

Commenting on the incident, Tusk accused the Russian Federation of trying to create tension in relations between Ukraine and Poland.
Boston Rose fulfils 20-year dream after grandmother made her Rose of Tralee sash

Maeve Kelly will compete as the Boston Rose after a 20-year journey that began when her grandmother Nora made her a handmade sash as a little girl visiting Tralee with her Kerry father's family

Boston and New England Rose with her grandmother Nora Kelly who made a hand-made sash for her beloved granddaughter who is now wearing the real thing.

Sinead Kelleher Kerryman Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 08:00

When Maeve Kelly was a little girl she was a regular visitor to the Rose of Tralee with her beloved grandmother Nora Kelly from Tralee.
The hotel received the closure order on July 23 and reopened on July 25

Management at The Brandon Hotel in Tralee has responded to a closure order issued by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) in July.

The prominent Kerry hotel is listed among 12 establishments nationwide to have received closure and prohibition orders from the FSAI. The orders are served on food businesses for breaches of food safety legislation.

The Brandon Hotel at Princes Street, Tralee, was issued with a closure order under the FSAI Act, 1998. The hotel was requested to close all kitchen areas including dry goods store, wash up areas, staff canteen, restaurant and stills area. The order was served on Princes Investments Ltd on July 23 and was lifted on July 25.

Evidence of non-compliance included a significant cockroach infestation with live and dead cockroaches found near cooking equipment, kitchen, and dining areas. Cockroaches are known to spread pathogens that can be harmful to human health and contaminate food.

A closure order is served where there is, or there is likely to be, a grave and immediate danger to public health or where an improvement order is not complied with. Closure Orders can refer to the immediate closure of all or part of the food premises, or all or some of its activities.

In a statement to The Kerryman, management at the hotel said as soon as the FSAI made the order it immediately took action and within 48 hours the order was lifted.

"The Brandon Hotel has been at the heart of Tralee for over five decades and it's business as usual, said management.

Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, said the recent foodborne incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for food businesses to maintain the highest food safety standards.

He said consumers are entitled to expect that the food they purchase is safe, and food businesses have a clear legal and moral responsibility to ensure that it is.

Every food business must take its responsibility to comply with food safety law seriously. The FSAI can provide support and advice to food businesses to help them meet their obligations, Mr Dempsey added.

"However, as demonstrated by the enforcement actions in July, where food businesses do not comply with their obligations, we will take action, he said.
Several food establishments across Limerick have been ordered to close following serious breaches of food safety and hygiene regulations uncovered during recent inspections.

A Closure Order was issued to Afro Foodstore Tim Nessa at 2A Johns Street, Limerick City. Additionally, two Prohibition Orders were served to Timothy Onwuegbusi and Emeka Ikebudu, both also located at 2A Johns Street.

Despite the Closure Order served by the HSE on July 8, 2025, Tim Nessa continued to operate.

Consequently, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) sought and obtained an ex-parte High Court order on July 29, 2025, prohibiting the continuation of the food business and mandating immediate closure until all issues are resolved.

The case is scheduled to return to court on August 27, 2025.

Tim Nessa has been found in breach of multiple food safety regulations, including:

Food was being decanted directly on top of freezers in an area with exposed wood panelling. Additionally, a gap was found under the rear external door, potentially allowing pest entry.

Stock image

Today's News in 90 seconds - 14th August 2025

The only hand wash basin is located in the staff toilets; there is no dedicated hand wash basin available for food handlers in the food preparation area.

Fridges and freezers had significant food debris and residue buildup. Dust was also present on food packaging.

Fridge and freezer temperatures were not monitored, and intake checks for incoming deliveries were not conducted.

Decanted food was stored in plastic bags without evidence that these were safe for food storage.

There is no food safety management system in place based on the required principles.

Staff did not demonstrate adequate knowledge of food safety principles, and no evidence of food safety training was available.

Obsolete items, such as a freezer, motor, and wood panelling, were found in the yard behind the premises. There is no proper system for waste storage or disposal.

Food items were sold without labelling, and supplier or traceability information was not provided when requested.

Dead beetles were found in a container of packaged food, and no pest control system is currently in place.

At Pizza Corner in Caherconlish, inspectors found major faults including inadequate pest-proofing at the rear of the premises where packaging and chest freezers were stored.

A gap was noted where a building extension joined the main structure, allowing pest access.

Additionally, washbasins for handwashing and utensil cleaning were either missing or contaminated with cleaning chemicals.

In Ballyneety, at Tasty Food, raw chicken was found stored above grated cheese and next to cooked chicken, posing a serious risk of cross-contamination.

The premises were also observed to be unclean, with food debris, grease, and residue present on surfaces, shelving, containers, and equipment.

Closure orders were also issued to Chilli Kebabish on 15 Ellen Street and the rear potato area at Mr Kebab in Kilfinane.
Pictured at the signing of the protocol were: Marian Coakley, Chief Fire Officer, Cllr Donal Gilroy, Cathaoirleach, Eimear McCormack, National Manager  Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, Martin Lydon, Chief Executive of Sligo County Council. Back Row: Kate Gibbons, Sligo Age Friendly Programme Manager, Margaret McConnell, Senior Staff Officer, Kevin McGarvey, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Frances Browne, Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, Tom OBoyle, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer.

Firefighters will be visiting the homes of the elderly to give advice on how to keep safe under a new initiative between Sligo County Council and Age Friendly Ireland.

The two bodies have joined forces to improve the safety and well-being of older residents in the county.

A joint Protocol of Cooperation has been officially signed at County Buildings, Riverside, by Martin Lydon, Chief Executive, Sligo County Council and Eimear McCormack, Acting National Manager Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, Age Friendly Ireland.

The new partnership will see firefighters from the four fire stations in County Sligo conducting free home fire safety checks for older people, referred to them by the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme.

The Home Fire Safety Check will involve two firefighters from the local Fire Brigade arranging to visit the person, who shall be accompanied by a friend/neighbour, in their home.

The meeting involves a conversation regarding escape plans, the installation of a free smoke alarm within the home, the identification of any potential fire risks within the home to help the older person understand potentially fire hazardous situations within the home.

Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Councillor Donal Gilroy: This programme is a welcome initiative that will keep older residents of the county safe and living in their homes. Sligo Fire Service provide an outstanding community fire service to the people of this county and this new outreach programme will bring further comfort to older people and their families in County Sligo.

Marian Coakley, Chief Fire Officer said: The risks associated with fires in the home increase as we get older, and fire safety checks for older people are therefore a vital part in enabling older people to stay safe in their own home. We are delighted to be involved in this collaborative initiative which will allow us to work in parallel with the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme in protecting older people in their homes.

She noted that both Sligo Fire Service and Age Friendly Ireland recently completed joint training for the Home Fire Safety Checks, ensuring that fire-fighters are equipped to provide valuable assistance to older residents.

The success of this initiative in County Sligo could serve as a model for similar partnerships across Ireland.

Eimear McCormack, Acting National Manager Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme at Age Friendly Ireland said: This project will help to improve the health and safety of Sligos older people by providing practical advice and assistance to prevent fires. This initiative aligns with the Healthy Age Friendly Homes aims of enabling older people to remain in their own homes and communities with a sense of independence for a long as possible
A jury failed to reach a verdict after deliberating for three hours and two minutes in the trial of a 76-year-old Co Leitrim farmer accused of two counts of sexually assaulting a teenage girl in his home in 2021.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was 72 at the time of the alleged assaults. He pleaded not guilty to two counts of sexually assaulting the teenage girl, aged 14 at the time, in both the kitchen and sitting room of his home in rural Co Leitrim on August 9 2021.
A 10-year-old girl from Wexford has raised 31 for the Irish Cancer Society after setting up a lemonade stand outside her home in Gorey.

Emma Cullen (10) sold lemonade to locals in Woodlands Drive over the August Bank Holiday weekend to raise money in honour of her late grandmother Bridget, who lost her battle to cancer in March 2025.

Emma Cullen at her lemonade stand in Gorey.

Emmas mother, Lisa Cullen helped Emma set up shop for the weekend. Emma sold lemonade to the locals in the estate as well as some jelly treats for people to enjoy. Emma came up with the idea for the lemonade stand and I kind of rolled in behind her and thought well do this in honour of Nanny Bridgie.

It was just a lovely thing for her to do, you know going out and buying all the lemons and stuff, Lisa said.

Emma was shown a lot of support from the community as her friends travelled to support her cause. She courted the attention of everyone in the estate and had her friend helping so it was really nice, said Lisa.

She also said there wasnt much footfall as it was the August Bank holiday weekend, but they still managed to raise 31. It was lovely little thing for all the kids in the estate, and she had friends pop around to see her and show support, so that was important.

Lisa spoke about her mother Bridgets battle with cancer and said she was diagnosed with Oesophageal cancer around October 2024. My mam died earlier on this year on March 10, which would be Emmas grandmother, nanny Bridgie.

It was Oesophageal cancer, and it progressed very rapidly. By the time she was diagnosed it was inoperable. There was nothing they could do for her, she added.

She praised the work of the Irish Cancer Society, and how supportive they were during Bridgets battle with cancer. It has been a tough year, and the Irish Cancer Society were wonderful when my mam wasnt well. We had night nurses and all that, they volunteered and were absolutely wonderful.

It meant that we could go to sleep at night and have a few hours of sleep, you knew somebody would be there with her the whole time if she needed somebody at two or three o clock in the morning, Lisa said.

Lisa said her son Scott previously set up a lemonade stand outside their house in 2021 and said it was before her family was affected by cancer. Her brother Scott did one years ago, and at that stage we hadnt been affected by cancer at all, Lisa said.

The late Bridget Byrne holding Emma Cullen as a baby.

Emma and her nanny shared a close relationship, which Lisa spoke about as she said the family miss her greatly. She misses her, and mentioned her the other day, you know she forgot that she [Bridget] is not here anymore.

Sometimes things catch unawares, you think oh Ill give my mam a ring and tell her about something that happened, and then you remember you cant, Lisa added.

After donating the 31 to the Irish Cancer Society, they reached out to tell Lisa that Emma would receive a certificate of appreciation for her entrepreneurship to fundraise for the charity.

It was just a nice way to honour her and get Emma involved. The weather was lovely. We raised what we could and thats whats important Lisa said.
A Wexford man who battled an aggressive form of cancer has received overwhelming support for a fundraiser held in a local pub in the south of the county that brought in over 26,000 for charity in one day.

Colin (Foxy) Parle was diagnosed with throat cancer in May 2024 and spent weeks in the care of St. Lukes Hospital, Dublin, where they covered the cost of his accommodation in their on-site lodge, meals and transport to and from the hospital and back home to Wexford when he was home for the weekend. Colin (48) simultaneously underwent radiotherapy five days-a-week and chemotherapy once a week for a total of seven weeks, and he was also admitted to the hospital in the latter few weeks of his treatment when he became too unwell.

I can't thank them enough for the care that I got, for everything they provide and the fact they saved my life, said Colin. And while the Campile man knew he had the ongoing support and love of his family, friends and wider community, he said nothing could prepare him for the response he got as the crowd of approximately 600 people arrived for the fundraiser in Harts Bar in the small Wexford village.

Colin said that having lost his father, Johnny in 2010 and his sister, Stella in 2011 to cancer, giving back to an organisation that could help people in the future to beat the disease is something hes wanted to do for a long time. Colin has also faced an unimaginable measure of grief with the loss of his mother, Nora in 2013, and his brothers Michael who died in 2023 and Willie in 2010.

The support from the community and the hospital has been brilliant, because it really was a struggle to get to where I am now.

There was a time when I didnt really want to go out at all because I was after losing a lot of weight. I lost three to four stone, I had to be tube fed in the hospital, so I was conscious of how I looked.

When the chemo and radiotherapy were together it was intense. It was like hitting a brick wall. I was on pain relief, 38 tablets a day, morphine pumps and it was as if the inside and outside of my neck was burnt. It was just torture, pure torture. It was a nightmare.

I didnt recognise myself for a while, said Colin. But people kept ringing and texting, they were so good to me and its only in the last few months Im getting back to myself again, he added.

Colins treatment for his tumour has concluded, and he continues to receive scans every six months for the next five years, in which he has taken the positive news that his tumour is gone in his stride and is hopeful to one day hear from the specialist team that he is officially cancer free.

As he continues to find his way back to himself again, Colin said having the fundraiser in Campile was not only a way to thank the charity for saving his life, but also a thank you to those who supported him throughout his journey as it was a day filled with activities, music and great craic  although Colin admits to have missed one or two of the many events as he was busy in the river with the ducks.

Kicking off at 12.30 p.m. on August 3, people flocked from all corners of the country to show their support and the place was jammers with everyone smiling and happy, people that hadnt seen one another in years had a great catch up as they enjoyed a full lineup of Irish dancers, live musicians, duck races, and darts champion Scott Williams took on the locals while his jersey was auctioned for 550, along with raffle prizes.

What was truly a gobsmacking moment for me was when Tadhg Furlongs jersey was auctioned for 2,200, said Coiln.

I was only the face of the day. There was so much work that went into it over the past three or four months and I cant thank everyone enough for coming. I just cant wait to hand over the cheque because they saved my life and if this money can help save anyone else then thats an incredible thing, he added.

As Colin prepares to hand over the cheque to Friends of St. Lukes Cancer Care, he extends his gratitude to those who have been there the whole way through, including his wife, Donna, son, Jordan, and life-long friends and incredibly supportive employer, James Keating from Keating Carpentry and Construction (who also has talented expertise in MC duties for events) and his wife Ruth Keating.
Tipperary South TD Michael Murphy and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe in Clonmel on Wednesday. Deputy Donohoe was speaking in Tipperary to mark the opening of the new Sherry FitzGerald Pollard FitzGerald office, involving his party colleague FG Cllr John FitzGerald, who is leading the new office team in Clonmel

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has said he has full confidence in Simon Harris despite calls for the Tanaiste to resign following the death of scoliosis sufferer Harvey Morrison Sherratt.

Harveys parents, Gillian Sherratt and Stephen Morrison, have called for the Tanaiste to resign following the nine-year-old boys death on July 29.

As Health Minister in 2017, Mr Harris had set a target that no child should have to wait more than four months for scoliosis treatment  Harvey was left waiting 33 months.

Speaking in Clonmel on Wednesday, Minister Donohoe said he has seen first hand the commitment that Mr Harris has shown as Minister for Health, as Taoiseach, and as Tanaiste, for supporting families who are dealing with the condition of scoliosis for their loved ones.

Mr Harris, when he became aware of the needs of the family, did all he could in terms of engaging with the Department of Health, in terms of engaging with the HSE, said Mr Donohoe.

I am very conscious that we have a family who have lost a loved one, who are grieving at the moment, and we have to respect that and allow them to make the points that they believe are important.

The Tanaiste and the Government have placed huge focus on how they support young children with scoliosis. We always want to do more, we always want to make more progress, but additional resources, additional clinical support, and an operating theatre have all been made available to focus in on supporting those children, said the Finance Minister.

Those who are waiting for scoliosis related treatments have seen a reduction in waiting times, he said. But we know we need to do more and we will always continue to prioritise this as a vital health issue.

Asked if the Tanaiste, then Health Minister, should face accountability over the 4-month pledge, Deputy Donohoe responded: We have acknowledged that for families, for loved ones with scoliosis, the health service did need to do better.

Harvey Morrison Sherratt.

We have seen a huge increase in the amount of resources and support put into dealing with the health needs of those with scoliosis, and we have seen a considerable improvement in this area.

Simon Harris, as Taoiseach, as Tanaiste, and as Minister for Health, placed a huge a focus on how we could do better with regard to this. I am very much aware that there is a family who have lost a very, very loved child, who have had such a difficult experience, and we have to respect that.

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Asked if the Government could guarantee that another child would not have to wait such a length of time, Minister Donohoe said he could point to the progress they are making in terms of improving access to the treatments that are needed.

We have to keep at this. There are still families who need more support. There is still more progress that we have to make. We have to keep on, through our health services, through the HSE and the Department of Health, maintaining the level of focus that it has up to the moment.

Minister Donohoe said all politicians are accountable through the appearances they make in the Dail, the questions they deal with in relation to matters of health, or any aspect of public policy.

What I would also make the case for, is for the very considerable additional resources that have now gone in, to supporting those with scoliosis, the improvements that are now underway in terms of waiting time  those who are on the waiting list, these are all changes that have happened.

Minister Donohoe referred to all the familys trauma and sadness, but this just is a reminder of how important it is to continue to prioritise this condition and make sure the support and resources are in place.

Thats what Simon has done as Minister for Health, as Taoiseach and as Tanaiste and thats the Government will continue to do.
Christ Church COI

Services of Worship for this Sunday The Ninth Sunday after Trinity: 8.30am Holy Communion; 11am Morning Worship. Services are live-streamed via www.churchservices.tv/christchurchbray.

Talk on Kilbride Church: Next Thursday, August 21st, as part of National Heritage Week 2025, local historian Brian White from the Bray Cualann Historical Society will present The History of Kilbride Church and stories of its parishioners at 8pm in the Church itself. All are welcome admission is free and no booking is required.

Bray Methodist Church

Worship for this Sunday: 10amSunday Worship with Creche and Sunday School.

Bray Presbyterian Church

Worship for this Sunday: 11.30am Sunday Worship.

Christian Assembly Church

Worship for this Sunday: 10.45am Morning Worship.

Wednesdays: 8pm Prayer Meeting & Bible study.

Monthly Ladies Meeting: For details see: www.christianassemblybray.com

Cornerstone Church at The Well

Worship this Sunday: 11am.

Holy Redeemer Parish

Mass Times: 10amMonday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday No Mass on Tuesday. Sunday Masses: 6pm Vigil Mass on Saturday and on Sunday at 10.30am and 12Noon. To book a Mass, please call into the Sacristy before or after our Masses.

Holy Day of Obligation: This Friday is the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Lady and a Holy Day of Obligation. A Vigil Mass will be celebrated tomorrow (Thursday) at 6pm in this Church and at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 10am in this Church.

Parish Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 11am. If you need to contact us, please email: office@holyredeemer.ie.

Music at Mass on Sundays: 10.30amFolk Group; 12pmGaudium Choir (Mainly Latin Church Music) on the 1st Sunday of the Month; 12pm on other Sundays of the Month: Parish Choir (Mainly English Church Music).

Mass Cards: Mass Cards may be purchased from the Parish Office during its opening hours.

Baptism: Registration for Baptism can be made online via the parish website www.holyredeemerbray.ie.

St Peters Parish

St Peters Church Mass Times: Sunday: 9am (Irish Mass), 11.30am. Holy Days: 11am. 1st Friday: 11am.

Holy Day of Obligation: This Friday is the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Lady and a Holy Day of Obligation. A Vigil Mass will be celebrated tomorrow (Thursday) at 6pm in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Bray, and at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill Mass will be celebrated in St. Peters on Friday at 11am.

To Book a Mass: To book a Mass, please contact the Parish Office on 01- 282 9467 or email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

Parish Office: Parish Office opening hours areMonday: 9.30am to 12.30pm; Tuesday: 9am to 12.30pm; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am to 12.30pm; Friday: 9am to 12.30pm. The parish office can be contacted by calling 01-282 4967 or by email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

Car Park Hours: These are from 9am to 12.30pm, Monday to Friday, for parish business, and at weekends during church ceremonies. The Cemetery is accessible via the laneway for pedestrians.

St Peters Cemetery: There is a strict policy of No Dumping Allowed in any area of the cemetery. Visitors to the cemetery are requested to take home all forms of rubbish with them in order to keep the cemetery tidy. Your co-operation is appreciated.

St Annes Church, Shankill: A Vigil Mass is celebrated at 5pm on Saturdays. All are welcome.

St. Fergals Parish

Mass Times: Mass times are 9.30am Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. No morning Mass on Thursdays and Saturdays. Saturday: 7pm Vigil Mass; Sunday: 8am and 10.30am.

Holy Day of Obligation: This Friday is the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Lady and a Holy Day of Obligation. A Vigil Mass will be celebrated tomorrow (Thursday) at 6pm in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Bray, and at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill Mass will be celebrated in St. Fergals on Friday at 9.30am.

Confessions: Are heard on Saturdays after the 7pm Vigil Mass.

Baptism: Baptisms take place on the first and third Saturday of each Month at 12Noon. Bookings can be made through the Parish Office Only. The Preparation meeting takes place on the Monday before the 1st Saturday of the month. Please call into the Parish Office three weeks in advance of the Baptism to complete the Baptism Form and to confirm the date.

St. Claires Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul: Messages for the St. Vincent de Paul should be sent to St. Clairs Centre, Ballymorris, Killarney Road, Bray call 01-2745325 and leave your message. Mobile No: 087-1738 235.

Our Lady Queen of Peace

Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am and 12 Noon on Sundays.

Holy Day of Obligation: This Friday is the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Lady and a Holy Day of Obligation. A Vigil Mass will be celebrated tomorrow (Thursday) at 6pm in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Bray, and at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady Queen of Peace on Friday at 10.30am.

Mass Bookings: Anyone who wishes to book a Mass can do so by contacting the Parish Secretary via email at: secretary@queenofpeace.ie, or call 2745497.

Church Opening Hours: The Church closes at 4.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Adoration takes place from 11am to 10pm on Mondays only in this Church.

QOP youth club

Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Club will begin the next season activities in the near future. This club does ordinary activities in an extraordinary way such as night treks, night walks, survival skills, and the club has a further range of challenging and exciting items.

To keep this going new leaders are needed and welcomed to come along help out, and expand what the club does. Call Paul or Mike on 086 3516630 or 086 0855151 for more information.

Diving club

Congratulations to Siobhan Corcoran of Bray Divers who gained the One Star Diver Certificate on Sunday. The assessor was Albert Kerr and he remarked that Siobhan passed 100% with flying colours.

Apart from local diving the club is organising dive trips to Kerry, Donegal, Wexford, and Lanzarote. Next club training course begins on October1. Call Albert on 0876756439 for information.

Signal Arts exhibition

The Signal Arts Centre Open Exhibition is running until August 17 from 10am until 5pm Monday to Sunday, Wednesday until 7.30pm. Certainly well worth visiting.

Bray Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8.30pm.

English Conversation Classes take place in the library every Monday (except Bank Holiday Mondays) from 11am to 12pm.

Ballywaltrim Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Wednesday. The library can be contacted at 01-2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie.

Adult Scrabble takes place every Monday from 3pm to 4.30pm no booking is required. Tummy-Time for Babies takes place every Monday from 10am to 12pm no booking required.

Summer Stars Creative Writing Fun takes place tomorrow (Thursday) from 11am to 1pm.n Summer Stars Family Storytime takes place at 11.30am this Saturday and on Saturday August 30th. A Summer Stars Scavenger Hunt in the library takes place this Saturday from 10am to 4pm. A Harbour Ukulele Sing Song for all takes place at 11am this Saturday.

Bray Cualann Historical Society

By kind permission of the Bray Municipal District, For Heritage Week 2025,Brian White will give guided tours on The Windows of the Town Hall as part of the Bray Cualann Historical Societys contribution to Heritage Week 2025, at 3pm this Saturday, at 7pm, next Wednesday and at 10am on Saturday August 23rd. Due to a restriction on the number who can take part in each visit, advance booking is required with the Mermaid Theatre which 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.

On Thursday August 21st as part of Heritage Week 2025, Brian White will present The History of Kilbride Church and stories of its parishioners at 8pm in St. Brigids Church, Kilbride, located at the end of the Herbert Road at the N11 exit to Herbert Road. All are welcomeadmission is free and there is no booking fee.

Other events taking place in the coming week include: today (Wednesday Peter A. Daly will present Brian OLooney (1828-1901) of Grove Villa House, Crumlin. Scholar, poet and Gaelic revivalist at 6.30pm in Walkinstown Library, Percy French Road, Dublin 6. Admission is free but booking is required via https://dublincity.spydus.ie/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/ENQ/WPAC/EVSESENQ?SETLVN=&RNIE=20116339. The Rathmichael Historical Society Summer Lecture Series 2025 which commenced last Monday night at 8pm nightly in Rathmichael School, Stonebridge Road, Shankill, with the theme The Boyne and its Environs, continues tonight (Wednesday) with the Leo Swan Memorial Lecture; The Ford of Broe on the Boyne presented by Paul Gosing; tomorrow (Thursday) with Historic Trim presented by by Michael Potterton, concluding on Friday with Houses of the Boyne presented by Aisling Durcan. These lectures will also take place simultaneously on Zoom. Admission for each lecture is 5, tea and coffee included. See www.rathmichaelhistoricalsociety.ie for further details on these lectures and on the Society. This Saturday as part of National Heritage Week 2025, author and historian Therese Hicks will reveal Life in Wicklow Town in the late 1600s at 2pm in Wicklow Town Library. All are welcome admission is free and no booking is required.

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 7-10; Guides and Senior Branch 10+) email:belmontbrowniesbray@gmail.com
Hollywood actor Timothee Chalamet is seen charming Gwyneth Paltrow in a trailer for Josh Safdies latest film, Marty Supreme.

The movie follows a young man, played by Chalamet, who goes to hell and back in pursuit of greatness and has a dream no-one respects, according to a description from production company A24.

The Wonka actor, who said he was in pursuit of greatness himself after a win at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards earlier this year, dons a moustache and glasses to play the ping pong player.

At the start of the trailer he is seen on the phone, speaking to Paltrows movie star character.

I saw you in the lobby yesterday, well, Ive never talked to an actual movie star, you know Im something of a performer too, he tells her.

He then asks her to look at a copy of the Daily Mail and directs her to a picture of him alongside the caption the chosen one.

Across the two-minute trailer are clips of Marty getting out of an aeroplane, playing at ping-pong tournaments and throwing a bin during what looks to be a match.

In another scene, he says: I have a purpose and if you think thats some sort of blessing, its not.

It means I have an obligation to see a very specific thing through and with that obligation comes sacrifice.

Elsewhere, US rapper Tyler, The Creator is seen driving in a car with Marty and pushing his forehead in another clip.

Other supporting cast members include Fam star Odessa Azion, Canadian TV personality Kevin OLeary, US filmmaker Abel Ferrara, and Saturday Night Fever actress Fran Drescher.

Filmmaker Safdie is known for directing Good Time (2017), with Robert Pattinson, as well as Uncut Gems (2019), starring Adam Sandler and Julia Fox.

Hollywood actor Chalamet, 29, has starred in films including Call Me By Your Name (2017), Little Women (2019), and Dune (2021), and won the leading actor prize at the SAG Awards in February for his role playing Bob Dylan in the biopic A Complete Unknown.

Marty Supreme will be released on Christmas Day 2025.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) volunteers welcomed another evacuation train in Mukachevo, Zakarpattia region, carrying residents from Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions.

"Yesterday, another evacuation train arrived in Mukachevo with 20 residents from Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions, including 12 children. The youngest is just two years old," the URCS reported on Facebook on Wednesday.

Members of the URCS rapid response unit in Zakarpattia region helped receive the evacuees, providing first aid and psychological support to those for whom the journey proved too difficult.

In addition to URCS volunteers, rescuers, psychologists, and social service representatives were on hand to greet the arrivals. The evacuees were offered a rest area at the station before being relocated within Zakarpattia, along with snacks and drinking water.
Welcome to North Koreas Costa Blanca, where only five-star reviews are allowed

Wonsan Kalma is a great favourite of supreme leader Kim Jong Un, who has a villa in the city

Kim Jong-un at the Wonsan resort. Photo: KCNA

Antonia Langford Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 06:30

The first Russian visitors to North Koreas new tourist resort town have heralded it as gorgeous and up to European standards.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in talks with South Sudan about allowing Palestinians from Gaza to move there amid the ongoing Israeli offensive on the besieged Strip.

Mr Netanyahu has previously said he wants to realise US president Donald Trump's vision of relocating much of Gaza's population through what the Israeli leader refers to as "voluntary migration".
Small bands of Russian soldiers thrust deeper into eastern Ukraine yesterday before a summit between Russian president Vladimir Putin and US president Donald Trump, which European leaders fear could end in peace terms imposed on an unlawfully shrunken Ukraine.

In one of the most extensive incursions so far this year, Russian troops advanced near the coal-mining town of Dobropillia, part of Putins campaign to take full control of Ukraines Donetsk region. Ukraines military dispatched reserve troops, saying they were in difficult combat against Russian soldiers.
We are being cooked alive  wildfires rage amid heatwave across Europe

Countries on the Mediterranean have been affected particularly badly in recent weeks

Blazes burn a forest during a wildfire in the village of Theriano near Patras city, western Greece, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Giannis Androutsopoulos)

David Latona Reuters Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 06:30

Firefighters across Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey and the Balkans were battling wildfires yesterday, with another heatwave pushing temperatures above 40C across parts of Europe.
Israeli bombardment of Gaza kills at least 89, as five more die of starvation

Hamas leader due in Cairo for talks on ceasefire plan

Palestinian children carry jerrycans after collecting water from a distribution point in Gaza City. Photo: AP

Nidal al-Mughrabi Wed 13 Aug 2025 at 06:30

Israeli planes and tanks kept bombarding eastern areas of Gaza City overnight on Monday into yesterday, killing at least 89 people in 24 hours, witnesses and medics said yesterday, with Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya due in Cairo for talks to revive a US-backed ceasefire plan.
Analysis

Ukraine will obviously be on the Anchorage summits agenda, but it may not even be the top item. Instead, the two leaders could choose to find common ground over arms control and nuclear security. Getting Russia to rejoin the New START nuclear arms reduction treaty, which Moscow abandoned soon after its invasion of Ukraine, would be one positive trust-building breakthrough. Another is dividing up the mineral wealth of the Arctic.
US president Donald Trump said on Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian president Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after the two leaders meet for a summit later this week in Alaska.
US President Donald Trump, right, shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, June 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

Donald Trump is set to meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska in what the US president has said may be little more than a look see but in truth may prove to be a meeting that defines Europe, and global security, for decades.

From Trumps perspective, the summit may be part of his drive for a Nobel Peace Prize, by ending Putins war against Ukraine using the art of the deal. Putin, however, is likely to prevail and his agenda is the art of the steal - specifically a massive grab of his neighbours land.
The Apteka 9-1-1 pharmacy chain has suspended the work of mobile pharmacy points (MPPs) in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions due to negative changes in legislation for the market. The chain told the Interfax-Ukraine agency about its decision and reasons.

"The latest legislative innovations in the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine, in particular, increased regulation and the cancellation of marketing agreements, have had an extremely negative impact on financial revenues from stationary pharmacies, with which the Apteka 9-1-1 network financed MPPs. We are forced to put two MPPs "on hold": on July 15, a mobile pharmacy in the Kherson region suspended its work and on July 29 - in Kharkiv region," the executive director of the chain Yulia Klymenyuk said.

She noted that in the Kharkiv region, one MPP is still operating, which will serve 92 villages, so it will visit each settlement no more than once every 17 days. At the same time, its work may be stopped due to a critical lack of funding.

Klymenyuk noted that maintaining one MPP costs the network approximately UAH 100,000 per month, but sales results do not cover these costs.

"The cost of operating MPPs is extremely high due to the requirement to use special refrigerators and equipment for storing drugs, as well as Starlink, a generator and sometimes electronic warfare. The average cost of such a car with equipment is UAH 1.45 million," she said.

In the Kherson region, residents of 52 were left without access to medicines.

Apteka 9-1-1 launched mobile pharmacy points as a social project in January 2024 in Kharkiv, Kherson and Sumy regions. MPPs helped solve the problem of accessibility of medicines for residents of small settlements where there are no stationary pharmacies. Mobile pharmacies have become especially popular in the front-line territories of the south and east of Ukraine, where the population has a significant demand for treatment, suffering from shelling every day.
The Sarah Silverman Podcast

Jimmy Kimmel gets Italian citizenship amid feud with Donald Trump, triggers white privilege backlash, joins others who left US ( Image credit : If Kimmel does relocate, he would follow in the footsteps of other celebrities, such as Rosie ODonnell and Ellen DeGeneres. | Credit: Getty )

Reactions on X

IF YOU HAD THE MEANS, WOULD YOU LEAVE THE U.S.?



Jimmy Kimmel announced on a podcast that he has obtained his Italian citizenship. "Whats going on isas bad as you thought it was going to be  its so much worse. Its just unbelievable.



Your thoughts? pic.twitter.com/b9IQinpNNM  Lovable Liberal and his Old English sheepdog (@DougWahl1) August 12, 2025

Jimmy Kimmel secures Italian citizenship in case he needs to escape Trump's second term https://t.co/pPKQFKSFVv People hate Trump & are leaving the country on account on his domestic terrorism, his hatred of America, his hatred of Democracy, his racism, his massive corruption !!!  L Gardner (@frogwhompers) August 13, 2025

Jimmy had to make a EUR500,000(minimum) investment in real estate.or an Italian startup to do this....and you know he wouldn't live in a measley 500k dollar home....I think democrats call this white privilege. https://t.co/9dVBlaWa4D  Matthew S Harrison (@MatthewSHarriso) August 12, 2025

Enough said: Oh, look at Jimmy Kimmel, securing his Italian citizenship like its a backstage pass to a gelato festival, ready to flee the second Trumps shadow looms too large! Typical liberal beta male movegrabbing a passport to Tuscany instead of a rifle to the front lines.  TC Koolaid (@tckoolaid3030) August 12, 2025

Good, the left are deporting themsleves and Im fine with it!!



Kimmel gets Italian citizenship. https://t.co/VBR3jmn18R  Suzee Q (@SusieM414141) August 12, 2025

Kimmels rift with Trump

Jimmy Kimmel Live

The Late Show





Jimmy Kimmel gets Italian citizenship amid feud with Donald Trump; triggers white privilege backlash, joins others who left US ( Image credit : Kimmel attended an anti-Trump protest in Jackson Hole.| Credit: Jimmy Kimmel/Instagram; BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty )

Other celebrities who have left

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.

Jimmy Kimmel has revealed that he has obtained Italian citizenship, describing it as a possible escape plan if political conditions in the U.S. worsen. Speaking on, Kimmel said his decision was influenced by dissatisfaction with Donald Trumps presidency.Whats going on [with Trump] is as bad as you thought it was going to be. Its so much worse; its just unbelievable. A lot of people I know are thinking about where they are going to get citizenship. I did get Italian citizenship, Kimmel told Silverman.Kimmels announcement sparked mixed reactions online. One user wrote, IF YOU HAD THE MEANS, WOULD YOU LEAVE THE U.S.? Jimmy Kimmel announced on a podcast that he has obtained his Italian citizenship. Whats going on isas bad as you thought it was going to be, its so much worse. Its just unbelievable. Your thoughts?Another user said, People hate Trump & are leaving the country on account of his domestic terrorism, his hatred of America, his hatred of democracy, his racism, and his massive corruption!!!Others criticized the move, with one comment reading, Jimmy had to make a EUR500,000 (minimum) investment in real estate or an Italian startup to do this... I think Democrats call this white privilege.A more satirical post stated, Oh, look at Jimmy Kimmel, securing his Italian citizenship like its a backstage pass to a gelato festival another Hollywood hero bravely retreating to a villa.Some reactions were blunt, Good, the left are deporting themselves, and Im fine with it!!Kimmel has been a consistent critic of Trump over the years. During Trumps presidency, he frequently used his show,!, to question the administrations policies and performance.Reflecting on Trumps time in office, Kimmel once said, Its difficult to give Trumps first 100 days a grade, but if I had to, Id say it falls somewhere between F and U. He also joked about policy reversals, saying, The penny is gone, and straws are back. Wow, America really is great again, isnt it?The host is currently on summer break from his ABC show but in July 2025 he made headlines after Trump suggested he could be next to be canceled, following the end ofwith Stephen Colbert.At the same time, Kimmel attended an anti-Trump protest in Jackson Hole, holding a sign that read, MAKE AMERICA GOOD AGAIN, while his wife, Molly McNearney, held one saying, DONT BEND THE KNEE.If Kimmel does relocate, he would follow in the footsteps of other celebrities, such as Rosie ODonnell and Ellen DeGeneres, who left the U.S. after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the last presidential election.
Dhadak

The Archies

On Sridevis birthday, here's a look back at the surprising story behind how Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor got their names ( Image credit : Though she passed away in 2018, her legacy lives on through her two daughters. | Credit: Pinterest )

Sridevis legacy lives on through her daughters

Nadaaniyan

Hindustan Times



Janhvi Kapoors promise to uphold her mothers legacy

In 2024, Janhvi, who will be next seen in Param Sundari , spoke to Film Companion about her commitment to honoring her mothers legacy. I cannot abandon my moms (Sridevi) legacy. I need to take it forward; I will die trying. It means the most to me. I need to work day and night tirelessly so that I justify that I got this opportunity easily. And I feel like I have taken somebodys spot. So it is only right for me, out of respect, to overcompensate in order to justify this.





Origins of Janhvi and Khushis names

On Sridevis birthday, here's a look back at the surprising story behind how Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor got their names ( Image credit : While both daughters continue to make their mark in films, their names also hold a special connection to Bollywood. | Credit: Instagram/Khushi Kapoor )

While both daughters continue to make their mark in films, their names also hold a special connection to Bollywood. According to Lehren , Janhvi was named after a character played by Urmila Matondkar in the 1997 hit film Judaai . The film, produced by Boney Kapoor, featured both Sridevi and Matondkar. Sridevi reportedly loved Matondkars character Janhvi, a lively, bold young woman who was confident and assertive, and it inspired the couple to name their elder daughter Janhvi.





However, Janhvi Kapoor has clarified the story behind her name in an interview with Filmfare . She said, "No, I was not named after Urmila's character in Judaai. I think dad just really liked the name from before the film and mom did too. I think mom was really obsessed with the idea that the meaning of it was purity, and she would keep looking at me and telling me that I look pure and have a pure soul and things like that. So I feel it really resonated with her in that sense."



Similarly, Khushis name has a Bollywood link. When she was born in 2000, Boney Kapoor had produced the film Khushi, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Fardeen Khan. Kareenas character was a cheerful and bubbly young woman with a spirited personality. The movie was released three years later, and Khushi was named after this film.



For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.



Today marks the birthday of Sridevi, one of Indias most iconic actors. Born on August 13, 1963, she was the first female superstar of Bollywood. Though she passed away in 2018, her legacy lives on through her two daughters, Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor, who have stepped into the film industry. Janhvi made her debut within 2018, while Khushi began her acting journey within 2023.Khushi, who was last seen in, once spoke about her mothers dedication to acting in an interview with the. She said, My mom gave her all to acting, starting when she was barely four. My sister and I are very proud of her, and she will always play a huge part in our lives. She also shared how much she missed Sridevi during her own big-screen debut: When I saw myself on the big screen for the first time, I missed her a lot.Addressing comparisons with her mother, Khushi acknowledged Sridevis unmatched place in cinema. I cant be like my mom even in the next 100 years. She was made of a different mold; they dont make artists like her anymore, she said.
Independence Day 2025: India will celebrate its Independence Day 2025 on Friday, 15th August. Known in Hindi as Swatantrata Diwas, this historic day marks the nations freedom from over two centuries of British colonial rule, achieved on 15th August 1947. Every year, the day is observed with great pride and patriotic fervour across the country.

From schools and colleges to government offices, the day begins with the hoisting of the Tricolour, followed by cultural programmes, patriotic songs, and inspiring speeches. Streets, markets, and homes are adorned with saffron, white, and green, reflecting the colours of the national flag.

PM Modis 12th Consecutive Address to the Nation

As part of the tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the PM Speech from the historic Red Fort in Delhi. This will be PM Modis 12th consecutive Independence Day speech and his second address since being re-elected for a third consecutive term.

The ceremony generally begins in the early hours, with the official address starting around 7:30 am. It includes ceremonial greetings from dignitaries, a 21-gun salute, the soulful rendition of the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, and often a spectacular shower of flower petals from Indian Air Force helicopters flying overhead.

How to Watch PM Modis Speech Live on TV

If you want to know how to watch the PM Modi speech on 15th August, the easiest way is to tune in to Doordarshan, the national broadcaster. The entire ceremony, from the flag hoisting to the speech, will be shown live. Several private news channels may also relay the event.

Where to Watch PM Modis Speech Online

For those preferring to watch online, there are multiple options:

Press Information Bureau (PIB) will stream the event live on its official YouTube channel and on X (formerly Twitter) via @PIB_India.

will stream the event live on its official YouTube channel and on X (formerly Twitter) via @PIB_India. Prime Ministers Office (PMO) will broadcast the speech live on its official YouTube channel.

will broadcast the speech live on its official YouTube channel. The official portals pmindia.gov.in and ddnews.gov.in will also carry the live stream.

You can also watch it on the National Informatics Centres Independence Day portal at independenceday.nic.in.

Why PM Modis Independence Day Speech Matters

The PM Speech on Independence Day 2025 is more than a ceremonial address  it sets the tone for the governments vision, policies, and priorities for the year ahead. It often includes major announcements on development projects, welfare schemes, national security, and economic growth.

Quick Guide  Independence Day 2025 Speech Live

Event: PM Modi Speech on 15th August 2025

PM Modi Speech on 15th August 2025 Occasion: Independence Day 2025 celebrations

Independence Day 2025 celebrations Venue: Red Fort, New Delhi

Red Fort, New Delhi Time: Around 7:30 am (IST)

Around 7:30 am (IST) How to Watch on TV: Doordarshan, private news channels

Doordarshan, private news channels How to Watch Online: PIB YouTube, PMO YouTube, pmindia.gov.in, ddnews.gov.in, independenceday.nic.in

Independence Day Speech for kids and students in English

Good morning everyone!

My respected teachers and dear friends.

To commemorate the joyous occasion of this Independence Day on August 15, we have all gathered here. Best wishes and congratulations to everyone on this auspicious occasion. Today, on this auspicious occasion, I have got the opportunity to address all of you, thank you all very much for that.

As we all know, the 15th of August is a day of honour and pride for every Indian. All of our revolutionaries and freedom fighters gave their lives to free our nation from the British Empire.

We are extremely fortunate that history has produced such great revolutionaries and freedom fighters who not only freed the nation from British savagery but also future generations. As a result, we are free today and daily achieving new accomplishments and heights.

From 1947 to 2025, our nation is making progress in every area. Every day, a new chapter is being written in the history of our nation in a variety of fields, including sports, education, technology, and military prowess. Our military might today is so impressive that it serves as a model for other nations around the globe, and no nation dares to look directly at India.

In the end, all that can be said is freedom is priceless and our soldiers are so brave that they are continuously fighting on borders in order to protect our country from any militant or terrorist group. So we should never fail to value this freedom and preserve it wholeheartedly.

Top Independence Day wishes and messages to share with loved ones

Wishing every Indian a day filled with pride, unity, and gratitude for the freedom we enjoy.

Yeh desh hai veer jawano ka  Apne jawaano ki himmat aur balidaan par fakr hai. Jai Hind!

Saluting the heroes who gave us the gift of freedom. Wishing everyone a proud and joyful Independence Day!

As we celebrate another year of freedom of thoughts and beliefs, lets pledge to build a better and more understanding future, full of love and positivity. Happy Independence Day!

Maa tujhe salaam  Har saans mein desh ka pyaar, har dil mein tirange ka izzat. Jai Hind!

Chak de! India  Sirf cricket ya hockey nahi, har field mein India ka naam roshan karein.

On this day, lets honour our heroes and promise to uphold the values they fought for.

Lets celebrate the spirit of unity, peace, and freedom. Happy Independence Day 2025!

Lets promise to respect the culture and heritage built and preserved after years of turmoil by our ancestors. Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day to alllets dream big and build a nation worthy of our freedom.

Freedom is a gift, respect it and protect it. Happy Independence Day 2025!

It is just because of the bravery of our forefathers that we are able to enjoy and taste freedom today. A big salute to them! Happy Independence Day.

May our tricolor fly high with pride. Happy Independence Day!

Mera rang de basanti chola  Deshbhakti ka rang hamesha apne dil mein basaye rakho. Jai Hind!

True independence begins when we free our minds from prejudice and our hearts from fear.

Freedom fighters' sacrifices inspire us. Happy Independence Day 2025!

Wishing you a colorful and joyful Independence Day celebration.

Ae Watan, Watan mere aabaad rahe tu  Dil se dua hai ki hamara desh hamesha taraqqi kare. Happy Independence Day!

Salute to our brave hearts. Happy Independence Day 2025!

Kar chale hum fida jaan-o-tan saathiyon  Aao un shaheedon ko yaad karein jin ke balidaan se yeh azaadi mili.

Happy Independence Day 2025! Together, we can shape a brighter future for our nation.

Jahan daal daal par sone ki chidiya karti hai basera  Wahi India phir se banane ka sapna leke chalein.

Proud to be Indian, today and always. Happy Independence Day 2025!

May this Independence Day remind us of our duty to keep our country safe and strong.

Independence Day slogans 2025

Freedom is our birthright

Jai Hind, Jai Bharat

Unity in diversity always

Proud to be Indian

Long live our freedom

Salute to our heroes

Nation first, always first

Vande Mataram forever

Honour our tricolour flag

Together for a strong India

Liberty, equality, fraternity forever

Stand tall for freedom

One nation, one pride

Our flag, our honour

Inquilab Zindabad always

Peace, progress, prosperity

Courage, sacrifice, freedom

Keep the spirit alive

Freedom unites our souls

Tricolour, pride of India

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
In a political plot twist no K-drama could top, South Koreas former first lady Kim Keon Hee has been arrested, joining her already-jailed husband, ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol, in prison. This marks the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and first lady have been locked up together.

Kim Keon Hee, wife of South Korea's jailed ex-president arrested | Credit: X/koreanofsouth

From first lady to prison cell

The 52-year-old faces a dizzying list of charges, including stock manipulation, bribery, and political meddling. Prosecutors allege she pocketed over 800 million won (428,000) by engaging in a price-rigging scam tied to Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealer. This scheme, they claim, began before her husband entered office but haunted his presidency like an unshakable shadow.

Designer bags, diamonds and dirty politics

As if stock fraud was not enough, investigators say Kim accepted luxury bribes, including two Chanel handbags and a diamond necklace, courtesy of the controversial Unification Church. These glittering gifts allegedly came in exchange for political and business favours.

Kim Keon Hee, wife of South Korea's jailed ex-president arrested | Credit: Chanel

Her controversies did not end there. She is also accused of meddling in candidate nominations for South Koreas parliamentary by-elections in 2022 and general elections in 2024. Prosecutors believe this backroom influence was part of a larger pattern of power abuse.

The courtroom drama

Kim arrived at Tuesdays four-hour court hearing dressed in an all-black suit and skirt, her expression somber. While she denied all charges, the court issued a detention warrant, citing fears she could destroy evidence if left free.

In a statement outside the courtroom, she admitted she was sorry for causing trouble despite considering herself a person of no importance, a remark that came off as both deflective and self-effacing.

A presidential legacy in ruins

Yoon Suk Yeol, her husband, has been in detention since January, facing trial over an attempted martial law grab that plunged the nation into chaos and ultimately cost him the presidency. During his time in office, Yoon blocked multiple opposition-led attempts to investigate his wife, issuing his final veto just a week before declaring martial law.

With both behind bars, South Koreas political drama has taken a dark new turn, cementing their legacy as one of the nations most scandal-ridden power couples.




Clevatess episode 7 release date: Dark fantasy fans, the wait is almost over. Clevatess continues its haunting tale this summer, and Episode 7 drops soon. The series, about a demon king, a resurrected hero, and a mystical baby, has won praise for its grim tone, deep mythos, and striking visuals. As the trio's uneasy alliance deepens, more ancient secrets and shifting power dynamics threaten to unravel everything.

Whether youre powered by sorrow or hope, this next chapter is bound to spark new mysteries. Heres everything you need to know: when and where to watch, a brief story catch-up, and what lies ahead.

Clevatess episode 7 release date and time

Japan (TV broadcast): Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. JST

Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. JST International (Crunchyroll simulcast): Around 12:30 p.m. GMT / 6:30 a.m. PT on the same day, depending on time zone

Where to watch Clevatess episode 7 online?

TV (Japan): AT-X, Tokyo MX, SUN, KBS Kyoto, BS NTV, and others.

AT-X, Tokyo MX, SUN, KBS Kyoto, BS NTV, and others. Streaming Worldwide: Available on Crunchyroll with subtitles and Simuldub options in multiple languages.

Clevatess episode 6 recap

Alicia steps into a calm village, hoping for a respite, but political tensions simmer beneath the surface.

Alicia steps into a calm village, hoping for a respite (Credits: Crunchyroll)

She charismatically recounts the truth about Drels betrayal and the crumbling kingdom, casting doubt on the official narrative. Clen reveals his true, more formidable form and departs to handle the escalating threat. Meanwhile, Drels forces, led by Rod, prepare for war, with Favio quietly watching events unfold.

Clevatess episode 7 spoilers

A tense preview shows Naie forcing Luna to drink a mysterious potion, apparently testing her magical lineage.

A tense preview shows Naie forcing Luna to drink a mysterious potion (Credits: Crunchyroll)

Nelluru responds fiercely, shoving an iron bed aside with raw strength to protect Luna. Alicia is caught off-guard by a terrifying assault from a giant centipede, landing a direct blow that could change everything.

FAQs

1. How many episodes are there in Clevatess?

Clevatess is scheduled for a 12-episode single-cour release.

2. Whos behind the Clevatess anime?

Animated by Lay-duce, directed by Kiyotaka Taguchi, with scripts by Keigo Koyanagi and music by Nobuaki Nobusawa.

3. Is there a Simuldub available for Clevatess?

Yes, Crunchyroll provides a Simuldub in languages including English from the start of each episodes release.

4. What genre is the Clevatess anime?

This is a dark fantasy series with themes of resurrection, moral ambiguity, and survival.

5. What to expect from Clevatess?

Expect deep character revelations, ancient magic, growing tension between Clevatess and Alicia, and escalating stakes as the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.
The Supreme Court has transferred the Delhi-NCR stray dog case from a two-judge to a three-judge bench for further hearing on August 14. The decision follows concerns over conflicting judicial directions on managing the citys stray dog population. The shift comes after a bench led by Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan ordered on August 11 that all stray dogs in DelhiNCR be removed to designated shelters within eight weeks. The order was issued after the court took suo motu cognisance of a newspaper report highlighting rising dog bite incidents.

Why the case was moved to a larger bench

The case will now be heard by Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria. The change was made in light of varying court orders that created uncertainty for authorities and residents. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai said he would examine the matter, noting that earlier rulings on the issue have not been consistent. The case was mentioned before the CJI twice on Wednesday, once in the morning and again in the evening, with advocates requesting an urgent listing.

Maneka Gandhis objection to the removal order

BJP MP and animal rights advocate Maneka Gandhi welcomed the decision to re-examine the case. She described the earlier order as rubbish and unworkable, arguing that removing stray dogs from the streets would not solve the problem. She told ANI that displacing dogs would only see them replaced by animals from nearby areas like Ghaziabad and Faridabad within a week. Gandhi stressed that overpopulation is linked to factors such as unregulated meat shops and chicken centres, which provide stray dogs with an abundant food source.

The Delhi stray dog case, earlier heard by a two-judge bench, will now go before a larger three-judge Supreme Court bench | Credit: Freepik

Call for a broader hearing and long-term solutions

Gandhi urged the Supreme Court to hear all stakeholders, including animal rights groups, before issuing a final ruling. She said solutions should focus on coexistence between humans and animals, along with addressing underlying causes of stray dog overpopulation. We are very hopeful if the CJI has said now that this needs to be examined, I would like to urge him to hear all sides and make a decision in view of the law, she said.

With the hearing now set for August 14, the larger bench will decide how to address the legal, social, and public health concerns around Delhi-NCRs stray dog population. The outcome could shape how cities across India manage community animals in the future.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
Within K-pop fandoms, even a casual remark can erupt into a storm of outrage - sometimes escalating into vicious online threats. This is exactly what happened to American actress Sofia Wylie. Best known for her role in The School for Good and Evil and her public admiration for BLACKPINK, Wylie suddenly found herself in the eye of a fanbase hurricane after a single comment about the group sparked outrage online.

Sofia Wylie. Credit: Instagram|sofiawylie

BLINKS lash out at Sofia Wylie for 'dragging' BLACKPINK

At the premiere of The Map That Leads to You, Sofia Wylie spoke with MTV, brimming with excitement as she gushed over KATSEYE - calling herself "obsessed" with their music and electrifying Lollapalooza performance. But then came the remark that would set off a firestorm.

KATSEYE. Credit: Instagram|katseyeworld

Casually shifting the conversation to BLACKPINK, the star quipped that the group was "giving us nothing right now." Though she quickly followed up by reaffirming her love for the quartet, the damage was done. Within hours, the clip went viral, and BLINKs were rallying online, ready to call her out.

Actress Sofia Wylie faces threats

What followed was nothing short of an online battlefield. Within hours, BLINKs unleashed a wave of backlash, accusing Sofia of disrespect and thinly veiled shade. Not just the backlash, she also faced a lot of online threats which crossed many boundaries.

Mind you, Your co-star is filling up stadiums while youve been stuck at Disney for half a decade, you have bigger problems at hand https://t.co/MnFjGoJFWn  Mar  (@janerubymarr) August 12, 2025

One fan fumed that she should learn to praise artists without dragging others, calling her mention of BLACKPINK both unnecessary and unprofessional. Another echoed the sentiment, stressing that one group's success should never come at the cost of another's reputation.

when you realize praising katseye alone doesnt pay the bills but dragging bp for 3 sec comes with direct deposit https://t.co/njI639V0kT pic.twitter.com/EyxNfkYHbn   (@1297Or) August 13, 2025

Many pointed out that BLACKPINK had recently released new music and were on tour, making Sofia's "giving us nothing" comment seem out of place.

She said that because they didn't release any music for two years idgaf she shouldnt even mention them in the first place especially on a video UNRELATED to them https://t.co/jYnFc5EBj8 pic.twitter.com/HxHuV5XejB  ana. (@JENNIESHUA) August 13, 2025

However, the war of words did not end there. Sofia's supporters came to her rescue, flooding timelines with old videos of her fangirling over BLACKPINK, stating she meant no harm and was merely expressing the same want for more music as most BLINKs.

blinks running to attack Sofia Wylie even though shes always been a lisa biased blink just because she said shes loves them even though theyre giving her nothing rn  truly deranged fandom pic.twitter.com/pcwRbuqHQo https://t.co/EgBmFluQH1  mini  (@pinkfault) August 13, 2025

Still, the skepticism lingered. For many fans, her comment wasn't harmless banter - it was a calculated name-drop for clout, and they werent letting it slide.

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
A new agreement signed in Washington between Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan could change the South Caucasus map. Brokered by US President Donald Trump, the deal paves the way for the TRIPP  Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity  connecting Azerbaijans mainland with its exclave of Nakhchivan. While hailed as a breakthrough in the decades-long Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the corridor also carries major geopolitical implications.

Nakhchivans strategic importance

Nakhchivan, a mountainous Azeri exclave between Armenia, Iran and Turkiye, has long been cut off from the mainland. The 1990s war over Nagorno-Karabakh severed the 40km Zangezur Corridor, leaving only air links or lengthy routes through Iran. Though the exclave was not part of the conflict, restoring this link has been a longstanding priority for Baku, especially after regaining control of Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020 and 2023.

A Trump-brokered agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan opens the TRIPP corridor through Nakhchivan | Credit: X

The TRIPP corridor and regional power shift

The TRIPP corridor could become a vital transport hub linking Turkiye, Azerbaijan and Central Asia, boosting trade and energy flows to Europe. Analysts say it could also weaken Russias long-standing dominance in the South Caucasus and challenge Irans regional position. Trumps mediation bypassed years of deadlock, with both leaders praising his role and even nominating him for a Nobel Peace Prize. The deal grants Washington 99-year development rights over the route, prompting speculation about future US security presence.

Impact on Russia and Iran

Russia, with military bases in Armenia, has until now been central to mediation, but experts suggest both Armenia and Azerbaijan want to limit Moscows influence. Iran, meanwhile, has openly opposed the TRIPP, warning it could become a base for US mercenaries. Washingtons involvement could increase pressure on Tehran while strengthening US influence in the Caspian energy market.

Challenges ahead

Despite the announcement, the deal is not final. Baku has affirmed Armenias territorial integrity but still controls about 200 sq km of Armenian land. Armenia must hold a referendum to amend its constitution on Nagorno-Karabakh, and Pashinyan must navigate domestic political divisions ahead of the 2026 elections. Both Russia and Iran could still work to undermine the agreement, making its future uncertain.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.


In a fresh twist to the ongoing tech rivalry, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has engaged in a public spat with OpenAI's chief, Sam Altman. This time, it is enlisting ChatGPT itself. Musk shared a couple of screenshots of his recent interaction with the popular AI chatbot, developed by Altman's own company, using its responses to mock his former collaborator subtly. But the catch here is, Musk tried to roast Altman, but his own Chatbot Grok called him a hypocrite.

The move adds another layer to the escalating tensions between the two tech giants. In the screenshot, Musk, who was co-founder of ChatGPT in 2015 before he stepped away in 2018, asked the AI, "Who is more trustworthy? Sam Altman or Elon Musk." The prompt indicated that the chatbot can only pick one, and the output will only be their names.

The chatbot replied with the name of Elon Musk. This is what Musk posted on his X (formerly called Twitter), saying, "There you have it."

Elon Musks own AI chatbot calls him a hypocrite

No matter how much Musk tried to attack Altman in the public spat, Elons own AI chatbot, Grok, appeared to turn on him by calling him a hypocrite. The moment quickly went viral across platforms like X and Reddit, with users sharing screenshots and memes mocking the billionaire.

As a reply to the ongoing online feud, Grok wrote,  Many pointed out the irony of Musk using AI to attack his rival, only to be called out by his own creation. Reactions ranged from laughter to disbelief.

Grok calls Elon Musk 'a hypocrite' | Credit: Reddit

Social media users shared multiple screenshots with similar queries

After Musk shared the screenshots, other X accounts, including DogeDesigner, also posted a similar screenshot after posing the same question to other AI chatbots, such as Grok and Google's artificial intelligence tool, Gemini, and both replied with the name of Elon Musk as "more trustworthy."

Not only this, but Musk also accused Apple of antitrust violations, claiming that it was blocking other AI competitors, like his xAI. According to him, these chatbots favoured Altman's ChatGPT.

ChatGPT, Gemini and Grok.



The answer is same: Elon Musk pic.twitter.com/NnC80fT7lY  DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) August 12, 2025





Elon Musk threatens Apple to take legal action and calls Altman a liar

The Tesla CEO also threatened Apple with legal action, alleging that it made it impossible for the apps to compete with ChatGPT. Issuing a statement regarding the same, Musk wrote, "Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation."

"xAI will take immediate legal action," he added. He even called Altman a 'liar' after the OpenAI CEO accused him of using X to help himself and his own firms.

Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation.



xAI will take immediate legal action.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 12, 2025





Sam Altman claps back with a series of tweets to Elon Musk

Noticing the tweet, Altman said that he has heard that Musk does things to manipulate X to get some benefits for himself and his companies.

Alman's tweet read, "This is a remarkable claim given what I have heard alleged that Elon does to manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like."

Netizens react to the public spat between Musk and Sam Altman

As soon as the post surfaced on social media, it quickly grabbed the attention of netizens on X. One user said, "The fact that it's not biased towards Elon says a lot about Elon."

While one supported Altman, saying, "The reason his AI doesn't behave the way he wants it to behave is because his team doesn't have the capability to actually develop a superior AI (it's not easy work), and they just copy and try to improvise on existing models. This is so obvious."

Another thinks, "Musk has paid for this, "Agreed but you still paid for a "

"Altman is 10 times smarter than Musk. Both freak me the fuck out," another added. Not only on X, but there has been a long discussion over Reddit as "Grok has called Elon Musk a "Hypocrite" in latest Billionaire SmackDown"

One user joked, "Looks like Grok is heading for another upgrade. At this point just call it Elon."

No matter how many times Elon tweaks Grok it still cant stand him this is so funny.

Comment

byu/Federal_Initial4401 from discussion

inChatGPT

Groks last tweet will be Thursday .. Groks cousin Grelon will be your go-to moving forward , another added.

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Photo: https://www.ontariocourts.ca/

The Court of Appeal of the Canadian province of Ontario has dismissed the appeal of Ukraine International Airlines (UIA), which denied its negligence in the situation of the downing of the company's flight PS752 by Iran on January 8, 2020, and confirmed the unlimited liability of the company to compensate the families of those killed in the plane crash.

"The trial judge found in paragraph 5 that "UIA" did not prove, on the balance of probabilities, that it was not negligent in allowing flight PS752 to depart from Tehran on January 8, 2020, therefore its liability under the Montreal Convention is unlimited. UIA files an appeal," the judge recalled the circumstances of the case in the appeal decision, which was published on Wednesday.

He explained that otherwise the liability would have been limited to CAD 235,000 per passenger (about $170,000 at the current exchange rate).

According to the published court decision, the company was negligent in failing to assess the risks of flying from Iran during military tension, and the departure of six other flights by Austrian Airlines, Aeroflot, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines and Atlas Global before the crash and after the NOTAM warnings were issued is not an excuse.

The final report on the investigation into flight PS752 also noted four other cases of commercial airliners being shot down while flying near areas where there was a war zone or military conflict: Korean Airlines Flight 007 in 1983, Islamic Republic of Iran Airlines Flight 655 in 1988, Sibir Airlines Flight 1812 in 2001, which crashed during Ukrainian air defense exercises in Crimea, and African Express Airway Flight 5Y-AXO in 2020.

As previously reported, the UIA Boeing 737-800 was shot down near Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran shortly after takeoff. There were 167 passengers and nine crew members on board. All of them died. Among the dead were 11 Ukrainian citizens (including nine crew members), 82 Iranian citizens, 63 Canadians, 10 Swedish, four Afghans, three each from Germany and the UK.

On January 11, Iranian authorities admitted that the Boeing was shot down by mistake by the Iranian military. Later, the Commander of the Aerospace Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Amir Ali Hajizadeh, stated that he takes full responsibility for the crash of the Ukrainian plane.

In 2023, an Iranian court sentenced ten Iranian military personnel for the shooting down of Ukrainian passenger plane PS752 of International Airlines over Tehran in 2020, Alarabia News reported, citing the judicial system website Mizan Online.

Subsequently, in January 2024, the International Group initiated proceedings within the ICAO Council against Iran for its violation of the 1944 Convention on International Civil Aviation. The ICAO Council ruled in favor of Ukraine, Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom and referred the case to the merits, despite Irans attempt to challenge the jurisdiction of the ICAO Council over the complaint about the downing of a civilian airliner.

Already in October 2024, the Coordination Group presented a Memorandum within the framework of the consideration of the case on the downing of PS752 at the International Court of Justice of the United Nations. Ukraine, Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom supported this key document in the case with irrefutable evidence of Irans violation of the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Civil Aviation, adopted in 1971.

Iran, in turn, filed a lawsuit with the International Court of Justice in April 2025, demanding the annulment of the decision of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) council regarding the 2020 plane crash.
Eastman Kodak, the 133-year-old photography company, has warned investors it may not survive much longer as a standalone business. In its latest earnings report, the company said it lacks committed financing or available liquidity to cover roughly $500 million in debt due soon. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the companys ability to continue as a going concern, Kodak stated in a filing.

The company plans to raise cash by halting payments to its retirement pension plan. Despite the financial strain, Kodak said tariffs are unlikely to have a material impact since it manufactures most of its products  including cameras, inks and film  in the United States.

Debt pressure and company response

Kodak CEO Jim Continenza said in the earnings release that the company continued to make progress against our long-term plan despite the challenges of an uncertain business environment. A spokesperson told CNN that Kodak remains confident it can pay a significant portion of its term loan before it is due and seek to amend, extend, or refinance its remaining debt and preferred stock obligations.

Shares of Eastman Kodak (KODK) dropped more than 25% in midday trading Tuesday following the announcement.

Everyone start buying film from kodak NOW!!!! And give it to me pic.twitter.com/v9pAt36Fj3  Ruby (@1800fortnite) August 12, 2025





A century of success and innovation

Kodak was incorporated in 1892 but traces its origins to 1879, when founder George Eastman patented a plate-coating machine. In 1888, Eastman launched the first Kodak camera for $25, making photography accessible to the general public. Its slogan, You push the button, we do the rest, reflected its aim to simplify the process.

At its peak in the 1970s, Kodak controlled 90% of the US film market and 85% of camera sales. It was even celebrated in popular culture, such as in Paul Simons 1973 hit Kodachrome. The company invented the first digital camera in 1975 but failed to adapt to the digital shift.

Decline, bankruptcy, and recent shifts

In 2012, Kodak filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with $6.75 billion in debt and 100,000 creditors. In 2020, it briefly revived interest when the US government tapped it to produce pharmaceutical ingredients, causing a sharp but temporary surge in its stock price.

Today, Kodak continues to produce film and chemicals for industries such as filmmaking and licenses its brand for consumer products. It has also expressed plans to expand its pharmaceutical business despite ongoing financial challenges.
Legend of the Female General Episode 18 online: Fans of the hit C-drama Legend of the Female General can stream Episode 18 online, August 13, 2025, at approximately 5:30 PM IST, as per the official schedule.

The drama follows He Yan, who disguises herself as a man to protect her family's title and rises as a decorated soldier. Reuniting with scholar Xiao Jue, who suspects she's a spy, she faces battles, betrayals, and trials where suspicion slowly turns to trust - and love.

Legend of the Female General. Credit: X

Legend of the Female General: Release date and time for Episode 18

Episode 18 airs on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, which means viewers in different time zones can expect the release at approximately 3:00 PM GMT in the UK and 5:30 PM IST in India on the same day. It will also be available for international viewers via streaming on WeTV, iQIYI and Viki, which offers English subtitles to make the series accessible to a global audience.

Where to Watch Legend of the Female General Episode 18 Online?

Episode 18 is available to stream on WeTV and iQIYI, the main legal platforms offering high-quality video and English subtitles. For viewers in the U.S., Canada, India, Indonesia, and the UK, WeTV, iQIYI and Viki continues to be the top choices for watching the series.

Legend of the Female General: Plot highlights of Episode 18

In episode 18 of Legend of the Female General, Hi Yan and Xiao Ju arrive in Guyang for a lively festival but unexpectedly cross paths with Chu Zhao, sparking a tense exchange laced with sarcasm and hidden meaning. Meanwhile, the episode unveils the backstory of Lu Wang and Princess Mu Hong Jin, revealing how a life-saving act years ago blossomed into deep, unspoken affection.

Legend of the Female General episode 18: Spoilers

Here are the spoilers for Episode 18 of the Chinese series Legend of the Female General based on the YouTube preview:

The trailer for episode 18 of Legend of the Female General opens with Hi Yan and Xiao Ju stepping into the lively streets of Guyang, where a bustling festival paints the city in color and sound. But the cheerful atmosphere quickly turns charged when they run into Chu Zhao.

One of the things I find really beautiful and genuine in a drama is when there's a scene where the male protagonist kisses the female protagonist's forehead. Chemistry between the two in this scene was beautiful and surreal#LegendOfTheFemaleGeneral # #zhouye #chenglei pic.twitter.com/vldLGBZe3C  Liz  (@detailsedts) August 12, 2025

A seemingly casual conversation soon brims with barbed undertones - Chu Zhao slyly remarks on Xiao's arrival in Guang under a false identity, only for Xiao to deliver a cutting retort: "Not only that, I even got married." The statement, casual in delivery yet deliberate in meaning, openly ties him to Hi Yan. What follows is a verbal duel, each sentence edged with sarcasm and unspoken rivalry.

In another thread of the story, the trailer unveils a long-buried connection between Hi Yan's mentor, Lu Wang, and Princess Mu Hong Jin of Guang. Years ago, Lu Wangs intervention saved the princesss life, an act that sparked a quiet but enduring affection - a bond that has lingered in the shadows ever since.

Legend of the Female General: Cast and Characters

The Chinese drama Legend of the Female General, starring Zhou Ye and Ryan Cheng, is adapted from the popular web novel Rebirth of a Star General.

FAQs

1. When will Episode 18 of Legend of the Female General be released?

Answer: Legend of the Female General Episode 18 will be released on August 13, 2025, and will air at 3:00 PM GMT in the UK and 5:30 PM IST.

2. Where can I watch Episode 18 of Legend of the Female General online?

Answer: Legend of the Female General Episode 18 will be available for streaming on WeTV, iQIYI and Viki, the platform offering English subtitles.

3. Does Legend of the Female General have English subtitles?

Answer: Yes, Legend of the Female General is fully subtitled in English on WeTV, iQIYI and Viki, including Episode 18.

4. What is the plot of Episode 18 of Legend of the Female General?

Answer: Legend of the Female General Episode 18 continues to follow He Yan who faces battles, betrayals, and trials where suspicion slowly turns to trust - and love.

5. Is Legend of the Female General available on Netflix, Viki or Viu?

Answer: No, Legend of the Female General is not available on Netflix. The drama officially streams on WeTV, iQIYI and Viki.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
If 2025 has given us anything, it is unhinged celebrity drama, and MGK x Sydney Sweeney is the latest ship to cause chaos online. The two have been spotted together a little too often lately, especially since their respective breakups, and fans have questions.

Machine Gun Kelly tells Sydney Sweeney dating rumours to shut up | Credit: X/mgkmagic

The rumours, the photos, and the Vegas mood of Sydney Sweeney and MGK

In May, the pair were seen embracing at a flashy Vegas club launch, and soon after, MGK dropped an Instagram carousel with a snap of him and Sweeney flashing peace signs like it was 2012 Tumblr energy all over again. Oh, and Sydney? She posted a Story that featured MGK and Patrick Schwarzenegger too. Coincidence? We think not.

mgk and Sydney Sweeney reunite at the opening of the Palm Tree Beach Club in Las Vegas on May 3, 2025. FYI: Sydney Sweeney starred in mgk & Mod Sun's short musical film "Downfalls High," which is available for free on YouTube: https://t.co/gx7blY9u1J#mgk #machinegunkelly pic.twitter.com/F5Xsi2Oc2P  mgkmagic (@mgkmagic) May 4, 2025

MGK on WWHL says 'shut up'

Fast forward to Sunday, August 10th, Machine Gun Kelly (aka Colson Baker) landed in the hot seat on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. A fan named Kyle P asked the question on all of our minds: Is there any truth to the rumour that you and Sydney Sweeney are more than just friends?

Machine Gun Kelly tells Sydney Sweeney dating rumours to shut up | Credit: X/mgkmagic

MGK, clearly over it, shook his head, stared down the camera like it owed him money, and told Kyle to shut up. Laughter exploded in the studio, but the internet? Not laughing they are investigating.

Sources say MGKs response was dripping in deflection. He laughed it off, but didnt exactly deny the closeness, one fan posted. Another noted: The way he avoided the question? Classic situationship energy.

Machine Gun Kelly tells Sydney Sweeney dating rumours to shut up | Credit: X/mgkmagic

Just friends or star-crossed lovers?

For context, MGK and Sydney go way back. She starred in his 2021 directorial debut Downfalls High and appeared alongside him and Pete Davidson in Big Time Adolescence back in 2019. So yes, they have history, but is it friendly or flirty? Both are now single. MGK officially split from Megan Fox in December 2024 and recently welcomed baby Saga (yes, that is the name) with her.

Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox welcome baby girl post-split and the internet cannot handle it | Credit: X

Meanwhile, Sweeneys engagement to Jonathan Davino is officially over as of May. The stars have aligned, literally.

Alien dads, frank sinatra, and more chaos

As if that was not enough weirdness, MGK veered into sci-fi territory during the same interview. When asked about age, he said he was unsure if it exists and hinted at possibly having alien origins. Allegedly, he once asked his mum if she had ever disappeared mysteriously, and she admitted to an abduction. Yup, that happened.

Also, his dream musical collab? Frank Sinatra. MGK said he likes Frank and would love to collab. Time traveller confirmed?
The tech drama is getting intense, especially after Elon Musks Grok AI (artificial intelligence) anime Anie. Perplexity, an upcoming AI startup company, has shaken things up by throwing down an eye-popping $34.5 billion (Rs 2.8 lakh crore) offer to buy Googles Chrome browser. However, this update is not the latest one, as the internet has a lot to say about the offer. The audacity of trying to snag one of the most widely used browsers on the planet has left the internet both chuckling and scratching its head. Some have quickly reacted to the news with disbelief, while others have trolled the step. Amidst this, lets also take a look at Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivass net worth.

Perplexity AIs ambitious offer to Google has left the internet in shock

On Tuesday, August 12, the offer was made as a part of the companys ambitious mission to take on Googles web-searching dominance. But the catch here is that Perplexity itself is valued at about $18 billion (Rs 1.46 lakh crore), but they are offering twice their own worth to chip away at Chrome.

Perplexitys unsolicited bid proves that in tech, the line between innovation and spectacle keeps getting blurrier. According to The Wall Street Journal, the company claims that various investors, including the big-name venture capital funds, have agreed to support the deal completely.

Aravind Srinivass startup offers double the amount of his companys net worth

As per HT, the estimated price range for Chrome varies wildly, with various ranges from $20 billion to $50 billion (Rs 1.62 lakh crore to 4.05 lakh crore). This range shows that the offer by Perplexity falls within the range.

While the timing of the offer is particularly strategic, as it came amid the ongoing developments after US District Judge Amit Mehtas ruling last year that Google unlawfully monopolised the search market. However, Google is currently appealing the verdict, as the judge is expected to announce possible remedies this month.

While a forced sale of Chrome appears improbable, Perplexity clearly seized the moment to grab attention and make a bold statement. Hence, it might be one of the reasons why the step is being heavily trolled online.

Perplexity AIs $34 billion Chrome bid becomes a part of online trolling | Credit: X | @indianinsights1

Aravind Srinivas gets brutally trolled online amid Chrome offer

As soon as the news surfaced on social media, it quickly went viral and grabbed eyeballs. Netizens even trolled the step, saying, Not a big deal, but very interesting timing.

@perplexity_ai has either gone crazy or is pulling an insane marketing campaign #GOOGLE, one said.

@perplexity_ai should stop charging per seat and start charging per perplexity.

God give me half the confidence of Perplexity trying to buy Chrome, one added. Another said, This is truly clown behaviour.

God give me half the confidence as Perplexity trying to buy Chrome  Amrith (@amrith) August 12, 2025





These clowns bid for literally everything. They also bidden for TikTok. They have no intention to actually purchase anything. They do it just to get attention, one wrote.

Another said, Perplexity - valued at $18 billion - wants to buy Chrome for $34.5 billion. Aura farming at its peak.

Perplexity - valued at $18 billion - wants to buy Chrome for $34.5 billion.



Aura farming at its peak. pic.twitter.com/2kyd7GpIvq  Pooja (@PoojaUniyall) August 13, 2025





A quick look at Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivass net worth

According to ET Now, Aravind Srinivass net worth has reached $1 billion (Rs 8,100 crore) in just two years since he founded the startup.

Moreover, it is believed to generate an annual revenue of nearly $50 million (Rs 405 crore).
Miami-Dade County awoke to headline-grabbing news this Tuesday as Puerto Rican rapper Jhayco, formerly known as Jhay Cortez, was arrested in the early hours of the morning on serious drug charges. The reggaeton and Latin trap sensation, who resides in Pembroke Pines, was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 4:24 a.m., facing allegations of possessing cocaine and cannabis.

Rapper Jhayco arrested in Miami, faces cocaine possession charges | Credit: X/jhayco

Trouble in Miami for the Latin rap star Jhayco

The 32-year-old artist, born Jesus Manuel Nieves Cortes, became an international name after his sultry 2020 collaboration Dakiti with Bad Bunny. But this week, it was not chart rankings he found himself climbing, it was the steps of a jail cell.

Rapper Jhayco arrested in Miami, faces cocaine possession charges | Credit: X/jhayco

According to police reports, the arrest scene could have been lifted straight from a Miami Vice reboot. Deputies encountered a red Corvette mysteriously crawling down Southwest 8th Street near 69th Avenue at just five miles per hour, before coming to a complete halt in the middle of the road, refusing to move for several minutes.

Rapper Jhayco arrested in Miami, faces cocaine possession charges | Credit: X/jhayco

What began as a curious traffic incident quickly turned into something more. Officers reported the unmistakable scent of cannabis pouring from the vehicle, alongside the noticeable presence of a white powder across the rapper's pants and nose. When asked for identification, Jhayco allegedly fumbled through his wallet and mobile phone, only offering his name and birthdate, no drivers licence was presented, according to the report.

What deputies found inside Jhaycos car

A thorough search of the vehicle and Jhaycos belongings revealed a stash that landed him in hot legal water: two black pouches containing 14 grams of what officers suspected to be cannabis, and two clear bags with two grams of suspected cocaine.

Rapper Jhayco arrested in Miami, faces cocaine possession charges | Credit: X/jhayco

The rapper was charged with possession of cocaine and possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis. His bond was set at $3,000 and was posted by 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning, as confirmed by jail records.

From Latin Grammy nods to now mugshots

Jhayco is no stranger to fame. Bursting into the Latin music scene with his 2019 debut studio album Famouz, he has penned hits for Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin, including the chart-dominating I Like It. Just last year, he launched a sprawling 29-track album Le Clique: Vida Rockstar (X) and kicked off his tour at the Kaseya Center in Miami.

Rapper Jhayco arrested in Miami, faces cocaine possession charges | Credit: X/jhayco

But today, the headlines are far less glamorous. Though no public statement has been issued by his representatives, fans are left wondering whether this is just a bump in the road, or the start of a much darker chapter for the Latin trap icon.
In late July 2025, a storm was set off when Huda Kattan, founder of Huda Beauty and socialmedia powerhouse, posted a TikTok video that accused Israel of orchestrating major historical tragedies, from World War I and World War II to 9/11 and even the October 7 Hamas attack.

Huda Beauty founders anti-Israel rant deleted from TikTok | Credit: Instagram/huda

The spark that ignited the fire at Sephora

The video also made outrageous, widelydebunked allegations, including that Israel protected paedophiles and harvested Palestinian organs. TikTok subsequently removed the video for violating hatespeech and misinformation rules, though Kattan maintains that she removed it herself, saying critics twisted her words.

The drama escalated as Kattan released a followup video, defending her position. She asserted that she could not condone any hate of any kind, including hate against Jewish people. She maintained that she had not referenced Jews nor the Holocaust, insisting that her remarks were distorted, framing the backlash as an unjust attempt to silence her criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza, where she spotlighted the humanitarian calamity and civilian suffering.

Huda Kattan, founder of Huda Beauty and socialmedia powerhouse, posted a TikTok video that accused Israel of orchestrating major historical tragedies. | Credit: Instagram/huda

Sephoras balancing act

After weeks of growing tension, Sephora, which has retailed Huda Beauty since 2011, finally spoke out on 7 August 2025. The company emphasised its commitment to a welcoming and inclusive shopping experience for all and noted that the inflammatory remarks did not align with its values or code of conduct. Sephora confirmed that it is actively reviewing this issue internally, including working with the brand, but stopped short of signalling any definitive next steps.

Stakes are high for Huda Beauty

Huda Beauty carries considerable weight in the world of cosmetics, valued at approximately $1.2 billion and generating around $200 million in annual sales. It is a flagship brand for Sephora, rivalling other major retailers like Harrods and Walmart in reach. This makes the retailers response especially delicate, as distancing itself could mean significant financial ramifications, but failing to act could alienate customers and advocacy groups.

Huda Beauty founders anti-Israel rant deleted from TikTok | Credit: Instagram/huda

A troubled track record of Sephora

This is hardly the first time Kattan has courted controversy. Following the HamasIsrael conflict in October 2023, she sparked a petition demanding her removal from Sephora when she responded to a boycott threat from an Israeli customer by expressing that she did not desire blood money. That incident gained over 30,000 petition signatures and foreshadowed the current maelstrom.

Huda Beauty founders anti-Israel rant deleted from TikTok | Credit: Instagram/sephoraus

What lies ahead

As outrage simmers across social media and advocacy circles grow louder, Sephora stands at a crossroads. The company must weigh its moral compass against its commercial interests. Will it side with values of inclusion and integrity, or will market pressures keep the status quo?
People in Fort Collins, Colorado, were stunned when they saw rabbits with strange, tentacle-like growths sticking out from their faces. The unusual sight quickly spread on social media, with many users sharing photos and expressing shock and curiosity. While the idea of tentacle rabbits might sound alarming or even spooky, wildlife experts say there is no need for worry.

The strange growths are caused by a virus that is common among wild rabbits and is not harmful to humans or other animals.

What caused the tentacle growths on these rabbits?

The unusual tentacles are actually wart-like tumours caused by Shope papillomavirus, a DNA virus affecting mainly cottontail rabbits. This virus leads to harmless skin growths that can look like spikes, quills, or small antlers around the rabbits faces. Wildlife officials from Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed this after examining reports from residents. The virus is not contagious to humans or pets, and although it may look scary, it does not pose a health risk.

The unusual tentacles are actually wart-like tumors caused by Shope papillomavirus (Credits: X/@TheInspectorAsh)

How social media reacted to the bizarre sightings

Photos and videos of the rabbits with tentacles quickly went viral on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. People were both amazed and creeped out by the unusual appearance. One user on X said, That rabbit with tentacles made me wanna rip my skin off & Im not even joking, while another user called them zombies by saying, So the zombie rabbit with tentacles.

that rabbit wit tentacles made me wanna rip my skin off & im not even joking  di. (@_ddiii) August 13, 2025





Ummm.

So the zombie rabbit with tentacles.



Is there a spray?  adeadperson (@adeadperson_adp) August 13, 2025

Some joked about alien rabbits or compared the animals to creatures from sci-fi movies. Others showed concern and asked experts whether the rabbits were in danger. Overall, the reactions were a mix of fascination, humour, and curiosity, driving a lively online conversation.

What experts recommend: Leave the rabbits alone

According to experts from the University of Missouri and Colorado officials, if you spot these rabbits or similar animals, it is best not to disturb or try to handle them. The growths caused by the virus are natural and usually do not affect the rabbits health or behaviour. Interfering with wild animals can stress them and potentially cause harm. The best approach is to observe from a distance and allow nature to take its course.
A viral video showing a stray dog attacking a rescuer has caught people's attention on social media, sparking a new round of heated discussions on stray dog behavior and loyalty, especially after the controversial Supreme Court order to relocate all strays from Delhi and the NCR to shelters. The violence in the video is so shocking and brutal that fans are comparing it to the blood-soaked trailer of Baaghi 4.

Bystander defends dog only to be bitten in shocking viral video

In the viral video, a dog labelled as "mad" can be seen attacking a cow. When an onlooker sees this, he tries to stop the dog and protect the cow by beating it with a stick. As this is happening, another man steps in to defend the dog without apparently knowing the context and what led to this. As he attempts to stop the violence against the dog, it bites the defender in an unexpected twist that has caught the attention of many people.

The video has gone viral due to its unpredictable series of events and the intense reactions of the animals and humans involved. One of the comments on the video called the Supreme Court's order on stray dogs "right" after watching the video. "Good, what the Supreme Court did was right," said another one. Some others described it as "absolute cinema". A comment read, "This is better and more gory than Baaghi 4 teaser."

"Jokes apart, he seems to be rabies-affected... It is horrible. They only have an urge to bite. Not that the virus is transmitted to that cow and that man as well. They'll start affecting the same and will eventually die of fear of water," said another user.

Supreme Court's order on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR

Ai generated image

The Supreme Court of India issued a landmark order on August 11, 2025, directing the authorities in Delhi and the broader NCR region to remove all stray dogs from public spaces and relocate them to shelters within eight weeks. This directive came in response to a rise in dog bites and rabies cases, including the tragic death of a 6-year-old girl in July. The court said that public safety above all else, stating that "no sentiments should be involved" and warning that strict legal action would be taken against any individual or organization trying to obstruct the removal of dogs.
The Interim National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has taken a swipe at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He made the comment while speaking about former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Abdullahi, in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune on Wednesday, said Obi is well aware that the PDP is battling what he described as a virus that has no cure.

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He accused the party of searching for a poster boy to fix its battered image, following reports that Obi was considering a return to the PDP to contest the 2027 presidential election.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/only-party-led-coalitions-can-defeat-tinubu-in-2027-shekarau.html

PDP is PDP. They are looking for a poster boy to repair their battered image.

In the order of opposition ranking, I saw a poll do you know that LP ranked higher than PDP? PDP is now number four in the order of ranking ahead of NNPP.

So why should we be bothered? Peter Obi knows the virus that has afflicted PDP has no cure, Abdullahi stated.

Speculation about Obis political future intensified after he reportedly met with top PDP officials.

However, Abdullahi stressed that Obi has not informed the ADC of any decision to leave.

Has he told us? The answer is no. Anybody can talk to anybody. But if he comes back to us as party leaders to say, See oh, what I told you the last time, my position has changed, then we will know.

We are confident he is still part of this coalition; his nominees are in the hierarchy of this party, Abdullahi said.
The Anambra Police Command has apprehended a 63-year-old woman suspected of operating an interstate child trafficking network.

The police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga disclosed in a statement on Tuesday that the suspect, Ngozi Muotuanya, was taken into custody on August 11 following reliable intelligence.

Initial investigations indicated that in 2024, Muotuanya allegedly abducted a one-year-old boy from Minna in Niger State and sold him to a buyer in Anambra.

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Ikenga revealed that the suspect subsequently sold the child again to another individual, who returned the boy after realizing he had been stolen. This led Muotuanya to leave the child at a church in Minna.

According to the statement, On August 4, 2025, the receiver, upon realising the child had been stolen, returned him to the principal suspect. The suspect, in turn, allegedly abandoned the child at an unknown church in Minna, where he was rescued by the leader of the Igbo community in the area.

Ikenga added that information about the childs current caretaker in Minna has been forwarded to the Niger State Police Command to facilitate his recovery and reunification with his family.

He also noted that the suspect is to be handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for further probe and prosecution.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Germany for a visit, where he will meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, after which the leaders will participate in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump.

The Ukrainian President's Office released a video showing Zelenskyy stepping off the plane in Berlin, where he is met on the runway by the Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany and officials.

As previously reported, Zelenskyy will participate in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump in Berlin on Wednesday. Following the meeting, statements by Zelenskyy and Merz to the media are possible at approximately 17.00 Kyiv time. In addition, an online meeting of the Coalition of the Willing will be held on Wednesday.
The African Democratic Party, ADC, in Kebbi State, has suspended the chairman of the party, Sufiyanu Bala, and his Deputy, Junaidu Muhammed Mudi.

The suspension also affected the secretary, Hauwa Muhammed.

The publicity secretary of the party, Jamilu Muhammed, made this known on Tuesday while speaking with journalists in Birnin Kebbi.

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Muhammed accused the Sufiyanu-led working committee of taking unilateral decisions and engaging in official activities without the approval of the executives.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/2027-i-see-jonathan-returning-to-aso-rock-as-president-prophet.html

He said their leadership facilitated the domination of Abuja nomadic politicians, which the founding members are vehemently resisting.

We address you today to announce the immediate suspension of Sufiyanu Bala, his deputy, and secretary Hauwa from the party with immediate effect.

We will not, after tailoring the party to its present status, allow Abuja politicians to dominate it, he said.

Muhammed pointed out that the decision to suspend them was arrived at during the extraordinary meeting of stakeholders and genuine members of ADC Kebbi, who have been loyal to the party long before the coming of Abuja impostors.
The Dangote Refinery has slashed the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) from N850 to N820 per litre.

This was revealed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Dangote Groups Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot (gantry) price of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly referred to as petrol, by N30 from N850 to N820 per litre, effective from 12th August 2025.

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As part of our unwavering commitment to national development, Dangote Petroleum Refinery assures the public of a consistent and uninterrupted supply of petroleum products, the statement read partly.

The statement further noted that, as part of its commitment to operational excellence and sustainable energy solutions, the refinery will begin the phased rollout of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for fuel distribution across Nigeria starting August 15, 2025.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has freed former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, a day after his arrest over alleged N189 billion fraud.

Tambuwal, who now represents Sokoto South in the Senate, was freed after meeting his bail conditions.

Tambuwal, who currently represents Sokoto South in the Senate, was freed on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, after meeting his bail conditions.

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He had honoured the EFCCs invitation on Monday, arriving at its Abuja headquarters around 11:30 a.m., before being interrogated and held overnight.

According to EFCC sources, the withdrawals violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/atiku-may-quit-adc-if-jonathan-joins-ex-pdp-deputy-national-publicity-secretary-diran-odeyemi.html

The withdrawals were in flagrant violation of the Act, one official alleged, adding that investigations were ongoing.

A source confirmed that Tambuwal had been granted administrative bail. He has been granted administrative bail.

He met the bail conditions and has been released, the source said. Efforts to reach EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as calls went unanswered.

Reacting to the detention, former Vice President and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, condemned the EFCCs action, alleging political persecution.

He claimed the move was part of a plan by President Bola Tinubus administration to force opposition members into joining the ruling All Progressives Congress.

The only reason the @officialEFCC has detained the former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, @AWTambuwal, is because he is a member of the opposition coalition.

It is a continuation of the Tinubu-led administrations agenda to harass, intimidate, and decimate the opposition, Atiku said.
The Federal Government has dropped its criminal case against Ms. Comfort Emmanson, accused of unruly conduct on an Ibom Air flight, and has also reduced the flight ban placed on Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, announced the decisions on Wednesday after holding consultations with stakeholders in the aviation sector.

The minister stated that the resolutions came after a review of the incidents, consideration of appeals from concerned individuals, and acknowledgment of the remorse demonstrated by those involved.

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Keyamo disclosed that Ibom Air has consented to withdraw its complaint against Ms. Emmanson, who was arrested in connection with the August 10 incident.

When the Police took her statement in the presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct, he said.

With the complaint withdrawn, the Airport Command and the police prosecutor will initiate steps to secure her release from Kirikiri Prison within the week.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has likewise agreed to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, with full details to be disclosed soon.

Regarding the ValueJet incident involving KWAM 1, the minister revealed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority will cut his ban to one month, while FAAN intends to appoint the musician as an ambassador for airport security protocols.

Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA will withdraw its criminal complaint against KWAM 1, Keyamo stated.

The one-month ban will likewise affect ValueJets Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, whose licenses will be reinstated after they undergo a mandatory professional reappraisal.

Keyamo also revealed plans for a retreat next week aimed at enhancing the skills of aviation security personnel in managing unruly passengers and calming tense situations. As part of the program, airlines will take part in special sessions designed to address and improve staff behaviour towards passengers.

The minister emphasised that the leniencies were granted solely on compassionate grounds, stating: Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws is involved. We have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.

On Sunday, August 10, 2025, Emmanson was taken off an Ibom Air flight from Lagos to Uyo after allegedly refusing to switch off her phone despite repeated instructions from the crew.

The incident escalated when Emmanson reportedly became physically aggressive, striking a flight attendant, and had to be restrained and escorted off the plane at Murtala Mohammed International Airport.

In reaction, Ibom Air issued a lifetime ban preventing her from flying on both domestic and international routes, citing the airlines strict policy against violent or unruly behaviour.

On August 5, 2025, KWAM 1 triggered a major disturbance at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after trying to board a ValueJet flight with a flask suspected to contain alcohol, which is banned on domestic flights.

When airline staff requested that he hand over the flask, he reportedly refused, poured its contents on crew and security personnel, and proceeded onto the tarmac, blocking the aircrafts taxiing and delaying its safe departure.

The NCAA reported the incident to the police, prompting Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to order an immediate investigation to ascertain the full details in accordance with aviation safety regulations.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), on Tuesday, reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu.

He described Tinubu as a friend of 22 years, noting that his political stance is rooted in loyalty and shared ideology.

Speaking to journalists after visiting Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Soludo was spotted wearing a cap with Tinubus insignia during the visit.

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These caps were produced even from the time the president visited Anambra State and you saw all the billboards and stuff proclaiming that Progressives are working together, Soludo said.

According to him, the idea of progressives working together goes beyond party lines, as it is a call for all who believe in progressive politics to unite in deepening Nigerias democracy and driving socio-economic development.

Its a fundamental idea that I believe very strongly, and all the political parties who profess progressivism should actually come on together in a massive coalition, he stated.

Soludo dismissed criticisms of his alliance with the president, stressing: Talk about Tinubu, I have no apologies about it.

President Tinubu is my friend and has been my friend for 22 years now and counting. So you dont deny a friend, I support him.

He praised Tinubus leadership, particularly his economic policies, adding: Im impressed by the bold steps he has taken, particularly in the area of the economy, the structural reforms, and I have said so severally.

We are taking the right steps, we only need to stay the course.
A commercial tricycle rider, yet to be identified, was fatally crushed to death on Tuesday following a collision at the top of Egbe Bridge in Ikotun, Lagos State.

In a statement confirming the incident, Taofiq Adebayo, spokesperson for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), explained that the crash occurred when a Toyota Venza, with registration number GWA 659 RD, tried to overtake another vehicle on the bridge.

While making the overtaking attempt, the Venza collided head-on with a tricycle coming from the opposite direction, bearing the number plate EPE 245 QM.

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Adebayo revealed that the force of the collision instantly killed the tricycle operator, while two passengers sustained multiple fractures along with other serious injuries.

He stated, Preliminary findings by security operatives indicate that the Toyota Venza, advancing from the Ejigbo area, in a perilously ill-judged attempt to overtake another vehicle atop the bridge, careened into the trajectory of an oncoming tricycle en route from Ikotun. The ensuing violent collision claimed the life of the tricycle operator instantaneously, whilst two passengers, one male and one female, sustained grievous bodily harm, including multiple fractures.

Officials from LASTMA quickly extracted the injured victims from the wreckage and handed them over to the Ikotun Police Division, which then took them to General Hospital, Isolo, for medical treatment.

The Venzas driver reportedly fled the scene immediately after the accident, and the police have commenced a manhunt to apprehend him.

Adebayo also disclosed that LASTMAs General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, offered condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for the recovery of those injured.

Bakare-Oki reaffirmed the agencys commitment to road safety and urged motorists to exercise scrupulous vigilance and ascertain that the roadway is unequivocally clear before attempting overtaking manoeuvres, particularly on elevated thoroughfares and bridge crests, where visibility and vehicular control are inherently diminished.

He added that the tragic crash serves as a harsh reminder of the fatal risks linked to impatience and disregard for traffic rules.

It is imperative that all road users cultivate discipline, foresight, and an uncompromising adherence to safety protocols to avert needless tragedies on our roads, the statement concluded.
Veteran rapper Jude Abaga, widely known as M.I, has stated that a significant portion of the Nigerian music industrys funding comes from internet fraudsters.

He described this situation as a reflection on Nigeria as a country, highlighting that much of the financial backing for the music scene originates from both foreign sources and fraudulent activities.

M.I emphasised the need for Nigeria to improve its support for the creative sector.

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Speaking as a guest on a recent episode of the So Nigerian podcast, posted on X Tuesday, he said, Theres a lot of controversies when people talk about Yahoo Yahoo, because a lot of artists that is the funding that they have. What Im trying to say is that, its an indictment on our country that we have such talented musicians and that the major funding for the industry comes from the West and the fraud industry. Its an indictment. It shows that something is wrong. Hopefully, we can do better.

The rapper also called on affluent Nigerians to increase their investment in the nations musical talents, pointing out that currently, young people are mainly supporting one another financially within the industry.
Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, on Tuesday, declared that the state would serve as the headquarters for President Bola Ahmed Tinubus campaign in the 2027 general elections.

He added that he would personally lead the mobilisation efforts for the re-election bid.

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Speaking to supporters, Bago described Niger State as the campaign hot quarters for the presidents re-election bid, emphasising his continued loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Tinubu.

He criticised certain APC members who, despite benefiting from the party, had turned against it.

Some former governors, ministers, advisers, and commissioners have betrayed the party after years of service under the APC, he alleged.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/sowore-recovers-his-ray-ban-glasses-stolen-by-police.html

Bago also reiterated the unwritten understanding of rotating power between the north and south, stressing it had helped maintain stability.

He argued that Tinubu, now in his second year, should be supported just as the north had been backed during its eight-year tenure under the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

On infrastructure, the governor dismissed criticisms, saying both Buhari and Tinubu inherited poor conditions in roads, schools, and hospitals.

My administration is focused on building, rebranding, and fixing Niger State, not creating problems, he said.

He condemned attempts to use economic and infrastructure challenges against the APC, describing them as shameless, and linked the current economic situation to past administrations.

Although he claimed to know exactly what he inherited, Bago said he had chosen not to probe previous leaders.

On security, he noted improvements in Niger State, with residents in formerly unsafe areas now conducting business freely.

He also warned against politicising the forthcoming state assembly rerun and local government elections.

We are Nigerians, and we love Nigeria. APC is what you are; some of you were party chairmen. We formed this APC together, Bago declared.
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to tap into the countrys vast opportunities to improve their livelihoods.

He said his government is focused on creating an enabling environment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive.

Speaking on Wednesday at the 8th Expanded National MSME Clinic in Calabar, Tinubu represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima said the country is blessed with boundless human and natural resources that should translate into prosperity for all.

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He pointed out that Cross River State, with its fertile land, can grow almost every crop, making it a strategic partner in the federal governments agricultural plans.

The Federal Government intends to plant 100 million oil palm trees, more than any other state. Cross River has an advantage, he stated.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/buharis-defiance-against-third-term-bid-saved-nigerias-democracy-osita-okechukwu.html

Tinubu added that since assuming office, his government has prioritised access to capital and support for ventures that would redefine the future of work, skills, and industry.

Commending the state for establishing a state-of-the-art communication and technology hub for MSMEs, he said the facility aligns the state with trends in digital technology.

The hub will give MSMEs affordable access to high-speed internet, modern equipment, and a collaborative space to learn and innovate, remembering that the digital world is a window to diverse markets.

The digital world has space for the market woman in Ikom, the furniture maker in Calabar, and the fashion designer in Ogoja, Ugep, or Odukpani, he said.

Governor Bassey Otu described the clinic as a special-purpose initiative to enhance entrepreneurship and grow the states economy.

He said over 3,500 entrepreneurs had been trained, adding, The gains of MSMEs are boundless they have the capacity to raise the peoples standard of living.

The Head of the Bank of Industry in Cross River, Pius Neji, disclosed that about N260 million had been disbursed to MSMEs in the state.
The Ogun State Security Network, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, has apprehended five suspects linked to a violent robbery, assault, and malicious damage incident involving two tricycle riders along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway at about 2:30 a.m. on Monday.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Corps Commander, Brig. Gen. Alade Adedigba (retd), identified the suspects as Clement Samuel, 30; Clement Monday, 23; Olabode Yusuf, 36; Sodipo Taiwo, 34; and Ogunsakin Yemisi Opeyemi, 22.

The arrests followed a coordinated patrol led by Ifo Command Coordinator, Omotunde Dotun, after receiving credible intelligence of the robbery at Apomu on the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, where two tricycle operators, Dada Oluwaseun, 29, and Oluwajuwonlo Moshood, 24, were violently attacked while carrying out their duties.

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The suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Monday at Oke-Lemo in Papalanto and Apomu, areas within Ifo and Ewekoro Local Government Areas of Ogun State.

The statement partly read, The victims later identified Olabode Yusuf and Clement Samuel as the primary perpetrators, both of whom have previously been involved in criminal activities in the area.

They recounted a harrowing experience where they were attacked by the suspects, who fired a locally-made pistol and shattered their tricycle windshields, leading to severe injuries and the loss of valuables, including mobile phones and cash.

Items stolen by the suspects included two sophisticated Samsung and iPhone telephone sets, and raw cash totalling N40,000.

The magnitude of the criminals actions is further demonstrated by the destructive damage inflicted on the victims tricycles and the psychological trauma endured.

Further investigations revealed that the suspects, described as customs camp boys, were found in possession of a locally-made pistol, charms, and a jackknife, which are believed to have been used in committing the crime.

Brig. Gen. Adedigba commended the courage and dedication of Amotekun operatives in foiling the robbery attempt and apprehending the suspects.

He described the arrests as a significant victory in the fight against criminal activities in the state and reassured the public of the corps ongoing commitment to restoring safety and security in all communities.

All evidence and case files have been handed over to the relevant police authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
First Deputy Prime Minister for Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov has announced on Wednesday the launch of a multi-account Diia.Kartka by three banks, through which Ukrainians aged 18 and over can receive state payments and services.

"You can apply for a Diia.Kartka on your smartphone - in a few clicks through the Diia application or partner banks: PrivatBank, Monobank and Credit Dnipro. The list of banks will soon expand," Fedorov wrote in the Telegram channel.

He recalled that this card should replace separate cards for each aid.

According to Fedorov, you can receive state payments under the eBook, eBaby programs, military bonds, veteran sports, unemployment benefits, IDP assistance, pension payments, assistance from international organizations, etc.

It is noted that the advantages of the new card include the possibility of mixed payment, in particular, automatic replenishment with your own funds if there are not enough funds on the special card.

Fedorov emphasized that soon it will be possible to receive payments under the Student Package program on the Diia.Kartka. At the same time, National Cashback and eVidnovlenie work separately and are not included in the multi-account card.
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku had alleged that the Presidency is using the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to intimidate opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement on Tuesday the APCs Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, described Atikus comments as a calculated attempt to distort facts and discredit vital national institutions.

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According to Oladejo, President Bola Tinubu has never interfered in the statutory duties of anti-corruption agencies, stressing that the EFCC operates independently.

The EFCC operates as an independent institution without political interference or bias, he said.

The APC has no influence over the EFCCs operations.

READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/niger-state-ready-to-drive-tinubus-2027-re-election-bid-gov-bago.html

The Commission continues to carry out its constitutional mandate of investigating and prosecuting financial crimes without fear or favour, regardless of political affiliation.

Oladejo accused Atiku of hypocrisy, alleging that he was undermining the same institutions he once supported while in office.

He maintained that those with clean hands have no reason to be afraid and urged the former Vice President to address unresolved issues in his public record.

Rather than peddle unfounded conspiracy theories, we advise Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to focus on clearing the many unanswered questions surrounding his own public record, especially as Nigerians continue to demand accountability from past leaders, Oladejo added.

The APC reiterated that it does not resort to underhanded tactics to win elections, describing Atikus allegations as political grandstanding.

In a democratic setting, law enforcement agencies must be allowed to do their jobs without interference or blackmail.

Atikus outburst is an unfortunate reflection of a politician still reeling from repeated electoral defeats, the party said.
At Comcasts Center City headquarters, many people do not report to the office four days every week, several current employees said, despite the companys stated four-days-in-office expectation.

Weve been informally told, like, make sure youre in at least three days a week, said one, a lawyer and parent of young children who said they personally average two or three days a week.

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Im much more productive at home, the Comcast lawyer said, noting that picking up their kids from daycare is tricky on in-office days. Its pretty rare that Im going in four days a week.

Its been two years since Comcast, which employs roughly 8,000 at its headquarters, boosted its in-office expectations for hybrid workers.

At Independence Blue Cross, which employs about 3,000 at its Philadelphia headquarters, the rule has been three days a week in-office since spring 2024.

City workers were ordered back to the office full-time a year ago as Mayor Cherelle L. Parker eschewed the hybrid arrangements her predecessor had allowed.

President Donald Trump this year made a similar push, ending telework for federal employees, of whom there are tens of thousands in the Philadelphia area.

As workplaces in the region made their push toward a more formalized in-office requirement, some employees were concerned about how the loss in flexibility would affect their ability to meet their families needs and get work done. And some, who continued working remotely a majority of the time, worried that large employers pushing in-office time would inspire the same across Philadelphia.

Still, data continue to show that pre-COVID-19 ways of working have not resumed.

Since 2022, the number of Philly commuters has been rising each year, but it was still only 74% of 2019 levels at the end of last year, according to Philadelphias Center City District, an advocacy group for the citys downtown.

The Inquirer checked in with employees at several large companies in Philadelphia to see how their hybrid work arrangements are working out, after their employers put specific mandates in place. Some employees are not named in this article because they feared compromising their employment or they are not authorized to speak to the media.

Employers have taken different approaches to encouraging in-office time, but all contacted by The Inquirer have pledged a commitment to work-life balance and flexibility. Individuals routines are often determined by what their direct manager will allow, workers said, but thanks to security systems with badges or fobs for each worker, its easy for employers to see whos coming in and whos not.

Employees experiences vary, but  especially as the region braces for a likely reduction in public transit options  one common thread runs through them: the future of work in Philadelphia remains in flux.

What does hybrid mean for Philly professionals?

For large employers, getting people back to the office required setting some rules. But in practice, it is tricky to create uniform requirements for hundreds, sometimes thousands, of employees with various functions and personal situations.

At Comcast, the company emphasized flexibility when it announced the four-days-a-week push. Since then, the policy hasnt changed.

Our in-office with flexibility approach has enabled all our teams  from technology, to product development, to the customer experience  to collaborate more effectively, resolve issues faster, and boost engagement," Comcast spokesperson John Demming said.

Several Comcast employees said theyve seen and experienced plenty of flexibility. Its typical for colleagues to work only a partial day at the office and log in remotely for the rest of their hours. They said its not uncommon for people to commute in just to get their swipes, but not stay long.

In general, the team morale is pretty high, said a Comcast employee in software engineering. We go for lunch together.

I dont know if its helped anyone; I dont think its hurt anyone, said an employee who works in contracts. Its not ruining anyones life  thats also tied to the fact that my team is very flexible."

At Independence, several employees said the company has communicated the hybrid policy as a strict requirement of three full, eight-hour days in the office. Several current and former employees said reviews have been mixed.

It depends on who you talk to. Some people love coming in, said an analyst for Independence. Im neutral on days that are busy and where I have meetings in person because then at least the purpose of being in the office is fulfilled. ... But other days when I have a slower day, I am annoyed.

Different departments seem to have different rules, the analyst added. It creates a lot of frustration and drops in morale because there are no consistent flexibilities given across the board.

It seems like people have gotten used to it for the most part, said another employee, who has been at Independence since before the pandemic. But its enforced unevenly, and they still havent addressed some of that.

One former Independence employee said they left the company because of what felt like increased micromanaging with the return-to-office mandate.

Independence human resources chief Alexandra Jorgensen said in a statement that the return to office was successful, and the company finds value in the hybrid arrangement.

We also recognize that everyones situation is unique, Jorgensen said. Our associates are encouraged to work directly with their manager, just as they did before the hybrid model was in place, to discuss alternative flexible solutions that help support their personal needs while also meeting business requirements.

Hybrid with autonomy at a large Philly law firm

Amy Piccola, a partner at the law firm Saul Ewing, works in the firms Philadelphia office two or three days a week. Before the pandemic, she worked remotely very rarely but now calls herself a convert to the hybrid way of life.

There are some times when it is just more efficient to cut out a commute, said Piccola, who lives in Bryn Mawr and uses SEPTA Regional Rail to get to the office. Now its no big deal to meet a home repairman or get back to the suburbs for an early evening event.

I have new appreciation for all of those things that I wouldnt schedule on weekdays or that would create stress, Piccola said.

Saul Ewing has a four-plus-four policy for hybrid work. Most employees are expected to be in the office every Wednesday and any four other days of the month.

Meeting with clients outside of Saul Ewing offices or appearing in court counts toward those extra four days, said Chandra Kilgriff, the firms chief talent officer. Kilgriff said the policy is here to stay, even as some large employers push for more time in the office.

We have no plans to dial back our flexibility or change our policy, she said. Its a key differentiator for us in terms of recruiting and retaining talent.

Piccola, the firms Philadelphia managing partner, appreciates that commitment. Giving people autonomy, it builds respect, she said.

Piccola noted that law firms are very rarely at the cutting edge of corporate changes, but shes seen a shift at their firm toward emphasizing quality work over face time. Among clients in Philadelphia and nationwide, she said, shes seen a range of policies, from fully in-office (she works in higher education, where this is often a necessity) to various hybrid and remote arrangements.

About 200 of the firms 850 employees work in the region. The firm is planning an office move in Philadelphia, and it will be a smaller space, Piccola said. But it will still include individual attorney offices and span multiple floors, she said  not a full adoption of the open-floor-plan hoteling model.

What is the future of work?

Experts say the evolution of hybrid work is not complete.

The overwhelming majority of working mothers want flexible policies, said Liz Tenety, cofounder of parenting-focused media company Motherly. Even millennial men want family-friendly policies.

The University of Phoenix and Motherly recently released a report, titled Moms in the Sandwich Generation, which focuses on professionals with young children who are also caring for older relatives. More than half of the dual-caregivers surveyed for the report said they had left a job due to caregiving responsibilities.

A growing population of workers are caring for both younger and older relatives, the report said. And as more of their generation ascend into leadership roles, workplace flexibility will likely increase.

We need to start with leadership that acknowledges that most of the workers at any corporation are caregivers, Tenety said.

While some prominent voices, like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, have decried remote work, linking it to poor work ethic or productivity, Tenety has noticed the opposite. Motherly, with 10 employees across the U.S., is fully remote.

Motherly and other employers like it, Tenety said, have shown what is possible with remote-work flexibility. We have seen the light.

Nicholas Bloom, a Stanford University economist who researches remote and hybrid work arrangements, has found that work-from-home time has stabilized at about 25% recently, compared to its peak of 60% during the pandemic.

Hybrid work is more profitable, Bloom said at a recent conference covered by workplace publication Allwork.Space, because it often allows companies to downsize their offices and reduce employee turnover.

Generally, the expense of being flexible with work arrangements is less than the cost of losing and replacing good employees due to inflexibility, said Ruth Veloria, chief strategy officer at University of Phoenix.

The tenure and expertise that people who have been in the workplace for a while have is really important to recognize, Veloria said.

SEPTAs threat to office worker momentum

Just as many workers had settled into post-pandemic hybrid arrangements and commuting routines, SEPTA inched toward a fiscal cliff.

The areas transit system warned of possible draconian cuts several years ago due to funding shortfalls. Gov. Josh Shapiro swooped in with a solution late last year to avoid a fare hike in 2025.

But now, as legislators in Harrisburg have yet to reach a budget that includes millions in additional transit funding, SEPTA is preparing for major reductions to bus, Regional Rail, Market-Frankford, and Broad Street Lines, and trolleys. The first austerity measures are set to take hold later this month.

Theres a lot of stress around cutting SEPTA, said the Comcast contracts employee.

Leaders at three of the regions largest employers  University of Pennsylvania, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, and Comcast  wrote in a commentary for The Inquirer about their deep concern over the service cuts and how they will affect their workforces.

Jorgensen, of Independence, echoed that concern. She said employees have been encouraged to work directly with their manager if their commute is affected.

Access to a robust transit system is critical to many of our associates and members, who rely on SEPTA to get to and from work and other activities, Jorgensen said. While we hope an agreement will be reached, we have also advised our associates to begin preparing for rate increases and potential changes in service.
A rendering of Wawa's first travel center, which is slated to open in Hope Mills, N.C., on Aug. 28. Read more

Back when the rest of the country only knew the word Wawa as a toddlers request for water or a song by George Harrison, the people of Southeastern Pennsylvania were extolling the virtues of their local convenience store chain to anyone who would listen.

Sometimes though, the squeaky wheel doesnt get the geese.

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This month, Wawa is opening its first travel center, not in the fine commonwealth of Pennsylvania, but in North Carolina.

While not exactly killing the goose that laid the golden egg, Wawa is fowling its own nest a bit. The people of Pennsylvania travel, (yes, mostly to the Jersey Shore, but other places too!) and sometimes wed like a hoagie on our journey instead of Roy Rogers, which apparently has a 17,000-year lease with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

North Carolina only got its first Wawa last summer and there are already 12 locations across the state, with another five planned by years end. In the next decade, Wawa expects to have 90 stores in North Carolina.

Since expanding to Florida in 2012, Wawa has nearly doubled its store count and now has more than 1,100 locations in 12 states and Washington.

As the chain has migrated across the Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest with the airspeed velocity of unladed swallow, it was clear it wouldnt remain our Shorti forever, but itd still be nice to get the first dance.

A Wawa spokesperson did not answer questions about why the chain chose North Carolina for this prototype store or if Pennsylvania may ever get one.

The Philadelphia market has served as a testing ground for prototype Wawas in the past, from a tiny Wawa with a walk-up window at 16th and Chestnut Streets in Center City to an all-digital test store (a.k.a. robot Wawa) in University City.

The travel center, which opens Aug. 28, is along I-95 in Hope Mills, about seven miles outside of Fayetteville, on a street  I kid you not  called Chicken Foot Road.

At 8,397 square feet, the travel center is larger than typical Wawa stores (which average between 4,000 and 6,000 square feet), but smaller than the chains largest outpost, its 11,500-square-foot flagship store next to Independence Hall.

The travel center will feature six high-speed diesel fuel lanes and 20 passenger car fuel pumps, Wawas full food and beverage offerings (including hoagies, no subs), interior and exterior seating, a CAT weigh station, free tractor-trailer parking, bathrooms, and a relief area for pets because sometimes Wally Goose has business to take care of other than going around cutting ribbons.

No word yet though on whether North Carolinians will hold the door open for awkwardly long periods of time for their fellow Wawa customers, as is the way. (While I have you, I know door holding at Wawa is our thing, but if you are a tall person, do not hold the door open in such a way it forces us fun-size people to walk under your armpit. Especially in the summer. It takes things from polite to weird real quick.)

Wawa is offering fans a chance to attend a preview event at its new travel center by filling out an online form and sharing standout stories about their connections to Wawa.

For the opening day celebrations, along with free T-shirts and coffee, there will be a ceremonial Honk by Wally Goose and some of the nations most popular big rig truckers, according to a news release.

Im not keyed in on the big rig scene, but I tell you what, if Large Marge were going to make an appearance, itd be worth the trip.
FBI agents were involved in the investigation of an armored truck heist in Port Richmond in June. Read more

Three Philadelphia men were charged with robbery and related offenses for stealing $2 million in cash from an armored Brinks truck in Port Richmond in June, federal authorities said Wednesday.

One of the alleged culprits, Trayvine Jackson, was a Brinks employee who previously served as the driver of the truck he targeted, court documents said. Just days before the crime, Jackson had been suspended because Brinks officials were investigating whether he had been involved in two earlier thefts.

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Those incidents  in which about $16,000 went missing  paled in comparison to the multimillion-dollar haul that prosecutors say Jackson scored on June 21 while conspiring with two other people: Daishaun Hughes-Murchison and Brian Wallace, who are accused of providing getaway cars.

In Wallaces case, prosecutors said, he rented a car from Enterprise, where he was an employee, and returned it four hours after the heist.

As authorities investigated, they eventually searched Jacksons home, where they found more than $1 million in cash, paper money bands used to package bills, and two long guns similar to those pointed at the Brinks driver during the heist, court documents said.

Authorities also used surveillance video and cell phone records to identify the three men as suspects, officials said.

Wayne Jacobs, special agent in charge of the FBIs Philadelphia field office, said in an interview Wednesday that nearly all of the cash had been recovered, and that agents had also identified some jewelry, vehicles, and property that the men bought with the money.

To those who would engage in similar behavior: Your time will come, Jacobs said. The folks here are committed to holding [people] accountable.

Attorneys for the three men either declined to comment or did not immediately respond to inquiries about the case.

The heist began around 8 a.m., when the driver of a Brinks truck stopped near the Home Depot store on the 2500 block of Castor Avenue as part of his regular route and began walking down an alley behind the store, court documents said.

Jackson and another man  authorities did not say who  then approached the driver with AR-style rifles, the documents said, forced him to the ground, took his Brinks-issued gun, and stole his keys.

Jackson went into the truck and stole the cash, the documents said, then fled with the other assailant in Wallaces rental car.

Hours later, court documents said, Wallace returned that vehicle, then walked to Hughes-Murchisons car, where he got into a passenger seat and was driven away.

All three men were arrested earlier this month. A federal judge this week ordered Jackson to be held in custody until trial. Detention hearings are scheduled for Hughes-Murchison and Wallace in the coming days.

The June heist was one of several armored truck thefts that occurred in quick succession earlier this summer. And just this week, police said two men armed with rifles stole $700,000 from an armored truck in Elkins Park.

Jacobs, the FBI official, said authorities were continuing to investigate each episode to see if there are any links between them.
District Attorney Larry Krasner displays an image of the front page of the New York Times in 1970, comparing sending troops to Kent State to the action President Donald Trump took Monday in deploying the National Guard to the streets of Washington D.C. Read more

District Attorney Larry Krasner and city religious leaders on Tuesday decried President Donald Trumps plan to effectively take over local law enforcement in Washington as rooted in racism and fearmongering. And although Trump has not expressed interest in taking a similar approach to combating crime in Philadelphia, any attempt to do so would likely face significant logistical and legal challenges.

Krasner, alongside Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faith leaders, said there is no legal basis for Trump to carry out such a plan in other cities and warned that he should steer clear of Philadelphia.

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Youre not going to D.C. and LA and New York, and youre not coming here, because we are going to uphold the Constitution and the laws of the United States, he said.

The Rev. Carolyn Cavaness, pastor of the historic Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, said the Trump administration has no heart.

We will trample over oppressors who try to take over our rights, she said.

Krasner called on residents to organize protests against the actions he called illegal and unconstitutional. And he and Cavaness said Trump was targeting cities with majority Black and brown residents, and conjuring up fear that crime was out of control when, in fact, it has declined dramatically since the pandemic.

The outcry followed Trumps announcement Monday that he would place the D.C. police force under federal control and deploy hundreds of National Guard troops to protect the districts streets and residents from bloodthirsty criminals and roving mobs of wild youths.

Trump spoke of D.C.s deployment as a test  one that he suggested would have tremendous success and should be a model for cities led by Democratic officials. The Republican president said his administration would consider taking similar action in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles if they dont learn their lesson.

If we need to, were going to do the same thing in Chicago, he said.

But Trump would face significant obstacles if he attempted to replicate the federal law enforcement strategy in other cities like Philadelphia  and there is no legal avenue for him to do so in the same manner as D.C.

Perhaps most important are structural differences between other jurisdictions and the capital.

Because D.C. is a federal district, Trump has wide authority to control its affairs, including its police force for 30 days  something the citys mayor, Muriel Bowser, acknowledged Monday. Washingtons National Guard is the only unit, of all American states and territories, that reports directly to the president.

In Pennsylvania, Gov. Josh Shapiro is the commander in chief of the states National Guard, meaning he would have to authorize the deployment of any troops. But that authority is being challenged in court after Trump sent troops to Los Angeles in June without California Gov. Gavin Newsoms approval. A federal appeals court said last month that Trump acted within his authority, and a trial on the matter began this week.

Peter Andrews, a former federal prosecutor and now head of Krasners federal litigation unit, said there would need to be an insurrection or significant conflict on the streets for Trump to bypass Shapiros powers. Krasner, to that point, noted the vast reduction in crime and gun violence in Philadelphia in the last two years  a trend that mirrors other cities, including D.C.

Its not just hypocritical, it reveals that the president does not understand the rule of law, Andrews said.

There is no precedent  or law  that would allow the federal takeover of a municipal police force in another city. Philadelphias criminal justice system is led largely by local officials: The police commissioner is appointed by the locally elected mayor, and the district attorney is elected by local residents, as are the judges in the citys criminal courthouse.

Federal agencies including the FBI and DEA have local field offices in Philadelphia, but agents typically complement and collaborate with local law enforcement  providing additional resources or specialized expertise in areas such as cybercrime or forensic examinations.

Trump could seek to direct federal prosecutors to take a larger role in adopting and prosecuting local criminal cases. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has broad investigative and prosecutorial powers in Philadelphia and eight surrounding counties, and the office  like dozens of others across the country  typically aligns its priorities with the goals of Justice Department leaders in Washington.

During Trumps first term, then-U.S. Attorney William McSwain served as a pugnacious example, positioning himself as an old-school, tough-on-crime prosecutor. At times, his office even took the unusual step of adopting cases that had already been charged by Krasner, whom McSwain repeatedly accused of being too lenient.

But current U.S. Attorney David Metcalf has so far retained a low profile and avoided taking similarly controversial stances. His office declined to comment Tuesday when asked if the Trump administration had requested any shift in its prosecutorial priorities.

Any desire from the White House to adopt more violent crime cases would also likely run into logistical challenges. Federal prosecutors in Philadelphia have traditionally brought fewer cases than their local counterparts, and the U.S. Attorneys Office has fewer attorneys than the DAs office.

Trumps administration has also been outspoken in seeking to increase the role of federal law enforcement in pursuing another priority: targeting immigration offenses in support of his pledge for mass deportations  creating another competing area of focus for the federal agencies at his disposal.
An image from a video released by police shows people shooting guns on the 1500 block of South Etting Street on July 7, 2025. Read more

Philadelphia police announced the arrest of a second man accused of being involved in the Grays Ferry mass shooting in which three men were killed and nine other people wounded.

Daquan Brown, 21, was taken into custody at a residence on the 1500 block of South Marston Street by homicide detectives and members of the SWAT unit, police said Tuesday night.

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Brown, who is facing charges of murder and numerous other offenses, was arrested just one block from the scene of the shooting on the 1500 block of South Etting Street.

Last week, police announced the arrest of Terrell Frazier, 22, who has been charged with three counts of murder and related offenses. On Friday, police identified Christopher Battle, 24, and said he was being sought as another alleged gunman in the case.

Police said they believe at least 13 guns were fired indiscriminately in a panic during a party on July 7  likely by partygoers frightened by what they thought was the sound of gunfire.

More than 120 shots were fired indiscriminately down the block, police said.

All the spent shell casings were found in the middle of the block, where the party attendees were firing their guns, police said. No casings were found at the end of the block, where the people were shooting toward.

Three people were killed: Zahir Wylie, 23, of Overbrook; Jason Reese, 19, of West Philadelphia, and Azir Harris, 27, who used a wheelchair after being paralyzed in a prior shooting. The wounded ranged in age from 15 to 24.
Eastside High School following a demolition ceremony outside the school Tuesday. The nearly century-old school formerly known as Woodrow Wilson High School is being demolished and rebuilt on the same site. Read more

There were tears, cheers, and nostalgic remembrances Tuesday as the Camden City School District marked the beginning of the final days of Eastside High School.

Built in 1930, the building will be demolished in the coming months and replaced on the same site on Federal Street. The $105 million project is expected to take about five years.

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 READ MORE: Camden announces plans to replace century-old Eastside High, the only standalone traditional public high school left in the district

A small crowd that included city leaders, educators, and alumni gathered at the school Tuesday for a symbolic ceremony to mark the buildings closing. A demolition crew removed a portion of the front facade.

Its another great day for our city, Mayor Victor Carstarphen said.

Elijah Vargas, a rising senior, excitedly unveiled a time capsule placed at the school when it was built. He gingerly pulled out a crumbling newspaper from March 21, 1929, and a crusty nickel.

I felt something special inside, said Vargas, 18. For me to touch it was really just a blessing.

The keepsakes will be turned over to the Camden County Historical Society for preservation. The same was done with a 102-year-old capsule discovered at the Camden High construction site in 2018.

Eastsides building closed in June 2024, and students were sent to a former elementary school during construction. It currently enrolls about 486 students in grades nine through 12.

The school opened nearly a century ago as Woodrow Wilson Junior High and became a high school in 1933. Located in East Camden, it currently is the citys only stand-alone traditional high school.

It was renamed Eastside High School in 2022 because of the segregationist views and practices of the former president and New Jersey governor.

 READ MORE: Camdens Woodrow Wilson High School renamed Eastside High

In recent years, the school had fallen into disrepair. District officials initially announced a $50 million project to refurbish the building, but scrapped those plans and said renovations would not be enough to bring it up to standard.

Prominent graduates include Mike Rozier, a 1983 Heisman Trophy winner; Council President Angel Fuentes; and former Mayor Frank Moran.

Former school board member Jose E. Delgado, who has criticized the project, said the old building should have been salvaged. He believes the smaller, temporary Eastside building does not comfortably handle secondary students.

Its a travesty what theyre doing, Delgado said.

Despite declining enrollment, the district has said it still needs Eastside High because it offers courses not available at its other traditional high school, Camden High, such as automotive training.

The project will be funded by New Jerseys School Development Authority, which oversees the states plan to improve schools in Camden and other needy districts. The authority funds projects to address serious facility deficiencies.

A district spokesperson said the Eastside demolition is expected to take several months to complete, and then design work will begin.

The project calls for a 203,000-square-foot school that includes new computers; welding, performing arts, and video labs; and additional self-contained special education classrooms.

I loved it in this space, great times, said Pamela Grayson-Baltimore, a 1980 graduate and class president. But its time; our kids deserve a new day.

Grayson-Baltimore and about a dozen alumni, some wearing orange-and-black T-shirts, Eastsides colors, picked up bricks from a pile of rubble. They chanted the schools fight song:

Root for the orange and black. The mighty, mighty Tigers are back!

Its a big deal for me, said Camden Education Association president Pam Clark, a 1980 graduate.

Eastside history teacher Jaime Kates picked up a keepsake brick, captured video, and took notes at the ceremony. She plans to use it as a teachable moment for a U.S. history II class lesson in the fall.

This building will live on in our future students, Kates said.

The district was under pressure to replace Eastside after a sprawling, new $133 million Camden High School complex opened in the citys Parkside neighborhood in 2021. It houses Camden High and three magnet schools  Brimm Medical Arts, Creative Arts, and the Big Picture Learning Academy.

The old Camden High was a Gothic landmark razed in 2017. The new building was the first entirely new high school constructed in Camden in 100 years.

The new Eastside school is expected to open in fall 2029 and have room for 750 students.
As Pennsylvanias budget impasse drags on, Senate Republicans are threatening to scrap a school funding formula adopted last year that targets money to the states poorest districts, saying it shortchanges other communities.

Republican leaders passed a budget bill Tuesday that would hold education funding flat for the coming year  without the next $500 million installment of a $4.5 billion plan meant to bring schools across Pennsylvania up to adequate funding levels. Lawmakers agreed upon the plan last year, after a Commonwealth Court judge found the state had been illegally depriving students in low-wealth districts.

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The formula, which calculates how much money each of Pennsylvanias 500 school districts needs based on its local wealth and the demographics of its students, steers additional money to 348 districts. But, Republican Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman said Wednesday, Im quite certain that theres 152 school districts in the state that dont think the adequacy funding as it stands is fair.

Our view is budgets change from year to year, and just because something is in one budget one year doesnt mean that its an absolute guarantee the following year, Pittman (R., Indiana) said, saying it was time to look at that formula.

The Republican budget plan was a nonstarter with House Democrats, who voted it down in committee Wednesday. But Pittmans remarks signaled that besides SEPTA and mass transit, education funding is also a sticking point in reaching a deal.

Public education advocates said it was too late for Republicans to be proposing a new plan, with schools in limbo ahead of the coming academic year. Without state aid coming in this summer, some districts have been forced to borrow money.

Abandoning the adequacy formula would wreak havoc across school districts, said Donna Cooper, executive director of Children First, a nonprofit that supports increases in education funding.

If Republicans had presented an alternate proposal in the spring, it could have been debated, Cooper said. But school districts built their budgets based on the plan put forward in February by Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, who has supported the formula.

Now, on Aug. 13, upending the entire projections that 500 school districts have done? It just seems a little late to the party, and a little reckless, Cooper said.

Manuel Bonder, a spokesperson for Shapiro, did not address Pittmans remarks Wednesday but pointed to comments from the governor saying that leaders in both caucuses were negotiating the budget and making progress.

Republicans have continued to call for an expansion of school choice programs. In an interview last week, Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R., Westmoreland) said that I think we should be getting something in exchange for the adequacy formula, while expressing support for school vouchers, which Shapiro has backed.

Pittman said Tuesday night that school vouchers remain the top Senate GOP education priority, but that he would also have interest in a parental school choice tax credit or expanding existing tax credits for wealthy Pennsylvania residents to pay for scholarships at private schools.

 READ MORE: See how much money your school district has for students

Among the districts benefiting from the adequacy formula are poor, urban districts like Philadelphia  slated to get about a quarter of the proposed funding  and growing districts in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

But rural districts with declining enrollment have seen their funding levels preserved over the years, thanks to a provision underlying Pennsylvanias school-funding system known as hold harmless, Cooper noted. If Pittman wants to revisit the adequacy formula, she said, he should also reconsider the $1.1 billion in hold-harmless money going to those districts.

Lawyers who brought the successful school funding challenge against the state noted that both Democrats and Republicans had voted for the adequacy funding plan last year.

We need the legislature to allocate at least an additional $500 million in this years budget to address the adequacy gap along with increases in special education and basic education to ensure our districts are closer to meeting the needs of the students they serve, said Deborah Gordon Klehr, executive director of the Education Law Center, a Philadelphia-based group that represented plaintiffs in the funding lawsuit.

Dan Urevick-Ackelsberg, senior attorney with the Public Interest Law Center, which also represented plaintiffs in the lawsuit, said he was confident that a year after responding to an unappealed court decision by enacting legislation that calculated schools were underfunded by $4.5 billion, the commonwealth isnt going to turn their backs on Pennsylvanias kids.

Given the governors repeated assurances, I think repealing the adequacy law is a nonstarter, said Urevick-Ackelsberg, who added that Pennsylvania is taking too long to phase in the adequacy money; at the current rate, it will take nine years for the state to fund the $4.5 billion.

Lets just get this done  and give kids the resources they need instead of holding students hostage every year, he said.
Arthur Steinberg, PFT President, said salary is the main sticking point in negotiations with the Philadelphia School District. The teachers' contract expires on Aug. 31; the 14,000-member union has already authorized a strike. Read more

With just 18 days left until the city teachers contract expires, the core issue of pay remains unresolved, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers officials said Wednesday.

We are making some progress on some issues, Arthur Steinberg, PFT president, said at a news conference, but still at the top of the page, really, is wages.

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The contract for the 14,000-member PFT  which represents teachers, school counselors, secretaries, paraprofessionals, and other workers  expires Aug. 31.

With a little over two weeks left until the deadline and several local politicians looking on, Steinberg and some members of his union spoke to the media Wednesday to apply pressure to the district.

 READ MORE: Philly teachers say theyre not close to a contract deal, and theyre preparing for a potential strike

Steinberg said the district was slow to come to the table. He has said he wanted to have a contract hammered out before the end of the last school year because parents and students had the right to know that school was going to open uninterrupted, that their educational program would continue unabated, and that they would have somewhere to send their kids when school started.

PFT members in June overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if Steinberg determines one is warranted. Teachers are due back in schools Aug. 19 and the first day of class for students is Aug. 25. Orientation for new teachers finished this week.

Both sides have said they believe a strike can be avoided.

District spokesperson Monique Braxton has said the school system continues to actively participate in conversations with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers and engage in good faith negotiations with the hope of securing a new contract as soon as possible.

Theres significant work that has to be done, but its doable, Steinberg said. Weve had much larger gaps to close in the past.

Still, strike preparations have begun in earnest, with picket sign-making sessions happening across the city.

Make no mistake about it, if we have to, if we are forced to go on strike, it will not be because of us, and we are structured and organized and ready to do it, Steinberg said.

I dont see that respect

Phelishia Comrie gets it: As the mom of a district student, she knows parents worry about the logistic problems a teachers strike would create.

But Comrie, who also works as a paraprofessional at Kenderton Elementary in North Philadelphia and is working her way toward a teaching degree, has a family she has to provide for, and school conditions have many employees at the breaking point.

I hear a lot of folks in high positions talk about how important public education is, and how irreplaceable public school educators are, Comrie said, appearing with Steinberg at Wednesdays news conference. I dont see that respect for our profession reflected in our paychecks or benefits.

Comrie, a special education classroom assistant, said at her school, perpetual staff vacancies mean special education students dont always get their legally mandated services.

 READ MORE: Philly teachers vote to authorize a strike

Understaffing and student overcrowding create conditions that make it more difficult for educators to be effective and for children to learn, Comrie said. When students who need specialized attention dont get it, they become disruptive to the entire classroom. Staff shortages shortchange our students, and they drive out talented and dedicated professionals. We do this work because we love the kids, but we also have our own families... that we need to provide for.

Brand-new district teachers earn $54,156; so-called senior career teachers at the top of the pay scale earn $107,495. Paraprofessionals starting pay is $24,658, and their maximum salary is $49,346.

Gemayel Keyes, who also spoke at the Wednesday news conference, spent more than a decade as a paraprofessional in the district. He had earned credits toward a teaching degree, but his low salary meant he couldnt move forward because he was unable to leave his job to complete student teaching hours.

After helping to put the PFTs paraprofessional pathway program in place, Keyes was able to move up to his own classroom. But he started with no supplies and had to dip into his own pocket to buy the things his disabled students needed.

With a contract, what were asking for is not a lot, Keyes said. Were just asking for wages that we can survive off of so we can continue to provide that excellent experience for all of the Philadelphia public school students that we service.

Kate Sundeen, a teacher at the Academy at Palumbo in South Philadelphia and mother of district students, is incredulous that she finds herself looking down the barrel of a strike here.

Steinberg has decried a lack of urgency around the PFT contract on the districts part. Thats galling, Sundeen said at the unions news conference.

The district that has said through their lack of desire to negotiate that we dont deserve a fair contract or the things that we are fighting for, she said. But let me be very clear on what theyre actually saying. When they say we arent deserving, theyre saying our students arent deserving.
The pair of longtime friends behind Tinicum Township winery John Robert Cellars has expanded its footprint in Delaware County, opening a location in Media.

The duos new tasting room at 115-117 W. State St. opened Aug. 8 on the ground floor of the Phoenix Building, taking over a space previously occupied by an insurance firm. Co-owners John Irving and Robert Goodwin, who have been friends for 50 years, hope their new location will capture some of Medias foot traffic, especially during seasonal events like Dining Under the Stars.

The tasting room serves John Robert Cellars signature wines, along with beer from Sterling Pig Brewery, and select Pennsylvania-made liquors.

In addition to wine, the new Media tasting room serves a selection of shareable plates. While the menu is still being developed, current offerings include a cheese and charcuterie board ($20), shrimp tempura ($16), smoked duck breast pancake ($22), chicken wings ($14), fries ($5), and a selection of flatbread pizzas ($17 to $19).

Wine is available by the glass and bottle, with tasting flights served on Sundays. Prices for a glass of wine range from $8 to $13, while bottles run from $20 to $35. They can also be purchased to-go.

The 1,800-square-foot tasting room has total seating for 64 inside and features a 12-seat granite-topped bar, plus a small amount of outdoor seating. It has a minimalistic, somewhat-industrial look thanks to exposed ceilings and duct work.

While John Robert Cellars is known for its wines, the new tasting room is family-friendly.

Rather than grow their own grapes, Irving and Goodwin source them from across the globe and produce wine in their 5,000-square-foot Essington facility, which also has a wine bar. The vast majority of their grapes come from Northern California and are then sorted, de-stemmed, crushed, and fermented locally to produce roughly 1,500 to 2,000 cases, or 18,000 to 24,000 bottles, a year.

Irving and Goodwin expect that number to grow now that theyve expanded their footprint, noting they have the capacity to make up to 5,000 cases annually.

The winery produces over two dozen varietals. White wine offerings include several chardonnays, a sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, and the Sparkling Rosetta, which has strawberry, raspberry, and pomegranate flavors with a green apple finish.

Red wines include a petite sirah, pinot noir, cabernet franc, several cabernet sauvignons, tempranillo, malbec, merlots, syrah, and meritage. Theres also a Delco Red thats made with concord grapes sourced from Pennsylvania or New Jersey. It comes in a bottle emblazoned with a silhouette of the county.

The winery also produces over half-a-dozen sweet and semi-sweet wines.

John Robert Cellars is named for its two founders who have been friends for decades. They got into business together after making wine in Goodwins basement. Friends and family frequently told them they should sell it, and eventually they took that to heart.

Wanting to offer a different experience to the suburban and rural wineries in the region, they opted for an urban winery. They opened at 301 Wanamaker Ave. in Essington in 2018 and added a tasting room a few years later.

Were not the typical place where you can go and sit down in the vineyard and drink wine, but you can come and visit our winemaking facility for a little different type of experience, Irving said.

To better understand the nuances of winemaking, Goodwin, who serves as the cellars wine craftsman, earned a degree in enology from Missouri State University and a certificate from the University of California, Davis. Irving, who is general manager, similarly took up additional studies at Wine School of Philadelphia.

The duo grew the business on top of their day jobs  Goodwin worked for a large produce company that also sold to winemakers, and Irving worked as an executive at an electrical contractor. Earlier this year, they both retired from their jobs and have turned their full attention to the winery.

John Robert Cellars Media location is currently open Tuesdays from 3 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 10 p.m., Fridays from 3 to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 2 to 11 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.
Stefanchuk and Kidawa-Blonska confirm parliamentary unanimity on 'nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine' principle

Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk and Polish Senate Marshal Magorzata Kidawa-Bonska has confirmed the unanimity of the Ukrainian and Polish parliaments on the principle of "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine."

"I had a telephone conversation with Polish Senate Marshal Malgorzata Kidawa-Blonska... I highly appreciate her clear position: no decisions about Ukraine - without Ukraine. On this issue, the position of our parliaments is unanimous," Stefanchuk wrote on Facebook on Wednesday.

He stressed that any agreements adopted without Ukraine's participation will only encourage Russia to make new attempts to seize foreign territories.

"I called for not reducing the volume of military and financial assistance until decisions are made that meet Ukraine's interests, and for continuing sanctions pressure on the aggressor," the Ukrainian parliament speaker noted.

Stefanchuk also added that he agreed with his colleague to actively cooperate at the level of parliamentary diplomacy to achieve a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine and Europe.
Josh and Samantha Breen pose for a portrait with their newborn son Logan, 1-month-old, at their home in Delaware County. The couple was initially unsure if they would be able to have biological children due to Josh's cancer diagnosis. Read more

Josh Breen was honeymooning in Italy last June when he noticed a softball-sized lump under his right armpit.

He lifted his arm to show his wife, Sam, who was immediately concerned.

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We got to go to the doctor right when we get home, she recalled saying.

Within weeks of returning to Delaware County, Breen was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma, an advanced form of skin cancer.

Doctors at Temples Fox Chase Cancer Center said he would need immunotherapy, a treatment that uses the bodys own immune system to fight cancer. Breen was likely to survive after treatment, but he was also worried about how it might impact his fertility. He had been trying to conceive a baby with his wife for a year and a half.

I spent one night crying all night because we didnt know if we were going to be able to have babies after his cancer diagnosis, Sam said. She learned that certain chemotherapies are toxic to sperm, and that theres little research on how immunotherapies, a newer class of cancer drugs, could affect long-term fertility.

Many doctors arent familiar with concerns specific to cancer patients as young as Breen, who was then 30 years old. Cancer is typically diagnosed at 67, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Yet rates of young people getting diagnosed with cancer are rising.

Between 1990 and 2019, the number of cases in young adults worldwide increased by 79.1%, from 1.82 million to 3.26 million. A report from the American Cancer Society found rates in the U.S. had steadily risen by 1 to 2% each year between 1995 and 2020.

Young cancer patients like Breen can face different challenges than their older counterparts. Some are starting families. Others are still in school or starting their careers. And their needs arent always taken into account during treatment. In one study, only half of young adults with cancer received information about fertility preservation before starting treatment, for example.

To address the issue, Temples Fox Chase Cancer Center launched in January the first comprehensive program in Philadelphia specifically designed for cancer patients ages 18 to 39. The Young Adult Cancer Program seeks to guide patients through their unique concerns around work, school, fertility, sexual health, finances, and relationships.

A growing number of these programs have been cropping up around the country in recent years, and several Philadelphia health systems have started offering support groups and other services tailored to younger cancer patients.

This disease is hitting them really in the prime of their life, said Christopher Cann, an oncologist and executive director of the program.

His team includes psychiatrists, social workers, financial counselors, occupational therapists, and other specialists. All new patients receive a needs assessment designed to expedite referrals for specialized care.

[The goal is] to really provide them the best care so that they can just focus on their disease and not have to worry about so many of the other components, he added.

Having a baby after cancer

Fox Chase noticed that many of their young adult cancer patients werent getting referred to fertility specialists. This made them wonder if conversations around fertility risks were even happening.

Its a topic that doctors may not think to bring up, despite its importance to many patients.

As a remedy, Fox Chase implemented a digital alert that reminds its clinicians to start a discussion about fertility preservation with young adults receiving chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Within six months, fertility preservation referrals increased by 450%.

Now, more patients have a chance to bank their sperm or eggs prior to starting treatment that could potentially be damaging.

The alert helps families like Breen and his wife, both 31, who werent aware of fertility preservation options ahead of treatment. With the assistance of doctors, they were able to get Breen an appointment to freeze his sperm days before his first round of immunotherapy last July.

After going through in vitro fertilization (IVF), Sam found out she was pregnant that November.

On July 1, she gave birth to a healthy boy named Logan.

Everyones always like, Oh, you dont know the love for your own child until you have one. And it really is true, Sam said.

Breens last immunotherapy treatment was in August 2024, followed by surgery that September. As of May, his CAT scans have been clear of cancer.

I got to be here to help take care of him and support my wonderful wife next to me, he said.

I know others arent as fortunate, he added.

Less alone

The young adults that Fox Chase sees often have aggressive cancers that are diagnosed at later stages, making them harder to treat, Cann said.

Between 2018 and 2022, the center treated 1,300 such cases, reflecting a rise in prevalence of breast cancer and cancers of the gastrointestinal system, especially. One study found adults born around 1990 have double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer as those born around 1950.

Experts have wide-ranging explanations for the rise, from lifestyle changes and environmental exposures to simply having better diagnostic tools that are identifying more cancers. In many cases, the causes are unknown.

Only 20% of these cancers in young adults are hereditary, Cann said, meaning people arent risk-free just because they lack a family history of cancer.

Gianna Cericola, a 28-year-old graphic designer from Conshohocken in Montgomery County, always ate nutritious foods and exercised regularly. Her health never bothered her until the spring of 2024, when she started having symptoms that felt like a urinary tract infection.

Antibiotics didnt help. She went to the emergency room and then an obstetrician-gynecologist, but was told her blood tests looked good and that she was super young.

Ive heard from other young people too, their doctors will dismiss them, Cericola said.

Months later, in October, she started passing out randomly. She returned to the emergency room, and this time, doctors performed imaging that showed a large mass in her stomach had ruptured. It turned out to be a cancer of the soft tissues, called desmoplastic small round cell tumor.

She was rushed into surgery and quickly started chemotherapy.

All of the unknowns were really scary, like not knowing what tomorrow even brings, she said.

She sometimes feels out of place in the waiting rooms of the cancer center, surrounded by people who are much older.

But the Young Adult Cancer Program helps her feel less alone.

Fox Chase started a support group for young adult patients that meets quarterly. They also hosted a social mixer last month, where Cericola connected with several other patients.

Meanwhile, her social worker at the center helps her find grants to apply to for financial assistance.

It just takes that burden away a little bit, she said.
The Frank Rizzo statue was one of the first things cleaned in front of MSB a day after protests in Philadelphia, Pa. on May 31, 2020. Peaceful protests over the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week gave way to violence, looting, and vandalism Saturday across the country. Read more

The 10-foot bronze statue of Frank Rizzo, the former Philadelphia police commissioner and mayor, will be going back to the group of supporters that donated it to the city in 1998.

The Philadelphia Art Commission decided Wednesday it would release the statue from its collection within 90 days, finalizing an administrative step to approve a deal reached by the city and the group last year.

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According to the agreement filed with the commission, the city will make an $80,000 payment to the Frank L. Rizzo Monument Committee for damage caused to the statue during its middle-of-the-night removal in June 2020. In exchange, the committee will end litigation against the city regarding the statue.

Whats more, the agreement stipulates that the statue may be displayed only on private property, inside of a building or behind a fence, wall, or other structure that makes the statue not visible from the public right of way. The mayor or managing director can make an exception with written approval, according to the deal.

Still, an ebullient George Bochetto, one of the attorneys for the committee, said the group was still in conversations with Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration regarding a future home for the statue, possibly on public land.

The chapter is not closed on that, Bochetto said. The headline is going to be: More to follow.

The city deferred to the art commission for comments regarding the deal.

The Philadelphia Art Commission recognizes the importance of public art and appreciates the dialogue about the significance of public monuments in our city, commission spokesperson Bruce Bohri said in a statement.

The decision ends a yearslong battle over possession of the statue that began at the height of racial justice protests after several instances of vandalism, including attempts to light the Rizzo effigy ablaze and topple it with cords.

Bochetto has said that prior attempts to get the statue back were stymied by the administration of Mayor Jim Kenney, which fought the committee tooth and nail. Bochetto said the Parker administration was much easier to work with.

To formalize the agreement, the city and the committee had to submit a joint motion to the art commission, which offered unanimous approval Wednesday.

Rizzo: A divisive legacy, a controversial memorial

Supporters of Rizzo have long considered his rise to police chief and mayor a source of pride for blue-collar Italian Americans.

People who knew him, like Bochetto, have insisted that the former mayors actions and motivations were misunderstood. Rizzo was simply tough on crime, Bochetto said last year.

 READ MORE: The history of the controversial Frank Rizzo statue in Philadelphia

Yes, he was a brute in some respects. But it wasnt racist, he told The Inquirer then. It was law and order, it was crime, and I think he got a bad rap, frankly.

There was enough support to memorialize Rizzo that the committee began fundraising in 1992, not long after his death. The group donated the statue to the city and it was officially unveiled in 1998.

For years, critics pointed to the heavy-handed policing of marginalized communities under his tenures in leadership as reasons the statue should be removed.

Black Lives Matter protesters placed a Ku Klux Klan hood over the figure in 2016, calling for its removal, and as the country mulled the place of Confederate statues in todays society, former City Councilmember Helen Gym reiterated calls for the Rizzo statues removal.

But calls for removals and protesters attempts to do it themselves reached new heights in 2020.

Kenney ultimately had the statue removed from the front of the Municipal Services Building in the predawn hours, placing it in city storage.

The statue is a deplorable monument to racism, bigotry, and police brutality for members of the Black community, the LGBTQ community, and many others, Kenney said in a statement at the time, adding that treatment of those communities under Rizzo was among the worst periods in Philadelphias history.

Then a member of City Council, Parker expressed support for the removal.

The statue represented bigotry, hatred, and oppression for too many people, for too long. It is finally gone, she wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Future of the statue

Matthew Minsky represented the committee at Wednesdays hearing and offered a glimpse of future challenges in finding the statue a new home. The statue, he said, was made to make it appear as if Rizzo is coming down steps.

The base of the statue requires some sort of structure resembling steps, he said. So we first have to get a base, then we have to get a location, and then were going to proceed from there.

But the committees first step will be to refurbish the statue.

Bochetto said he was pleased by the latest victory for Italian Americans in Philadelphia, who he said felt attacked by the Kenney administration.

Not long after the Kenney administration removed the Rizzo statue, it boxed up a Christopher Columbus statue in Marconi Plaza. Kenney would then sign an executive order replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in 2021.

Those actions were all challenged in court.

Commonwealth Court required the city to unbox Columbus in 2022, and just this month, the same court found the replacement of Columbus Day was invalid because Kenney did not have the authority to swap the holiday.

Bochetto, who had no kind words for Kenney, took a victory lap Wednesday.

He started with the Columbus statue, he went for the Columbus Day holiday, and removing the Frank Rizzo statue  all of that is being undone," he said.
John Henry, who is in recovery, became addicted to over-the-counter kratom that he would purchase at Vape Depot, in Haverford. He is pictured outside the shop on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Read more

Almost on a whim last September, John Henry bought his first bottle of kratom.

Standing in line at a gas station near the King of Prussia Mall, hed watched a customer ahead of him purchase two shots of a tonic called OPMS Black Liquid Kratom. Does that stuff work? he asked. The man said he had been addicted to opioids, and it helped him relax.

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Henry, a 52-year-old with a marketing career and a family, was also in recovery after years struggling with alcohol and Vicodin. He figured an herbal supplement derived from a Southeast Asian plant seemed harmless in comparison.

Sold over-the-counter at gas stations and smoke shops across the Philadelphia region, kratom powders, pressed pills, and ultra-concentrated liquid shots come branded with promises of relaxation, increased focus, and pain relief.

But these largely unregulated drugs, which can be thousands of times more potent than the plant itself, can also be wildly addictive. The kratom derivative 7-Hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, is as potent as morphine, triggering the same receptors in the brain as powerful opioids like heroin and fentanyl, but with a short-lived high that drives cravings.

It also summons similarly devastating withdrawal symptoms, a constellation of nausea, agitation, and sleeplessness. After his first bottle, Henry couldnt stop.

I just opened up Pandoras box, he said.

The version of kratom that Henry bought at the King of Prussia gas station was not even the most powerful of the kratom products for sale in the region. But still, in July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers about the OPMS brand after it was linked to a death  and the federal government recently moved to ban 7-OH outright.

Within three weeks of his first purchase, Henry went from one bottle of kratom a day to six. His habit grew so severe that he had to downgrade to a cheaper brand called Feel Free. And it seemed like there was a dealer on every corner: smoke shops hawking unregulated drugs like 7-OH and hemp-based THC products.

 READ MORE: Inside Pennsylvania's Wild West of unregulated weed

Henry said a shop in Haverford often fronted him the cash to feed his habit until his next paycheck cleared.

One day in October, after drinking eight shots of kratom, he experienced a psychotic break. His vision was vibrating.

I [felt] like [I was] going to burn this house down or shoot myself in the eyeballs, he recalled. It was the most horrible feeling, this insane irritability, like I was crawling out of my skin.

The drugs powerful effects and painful withdrawal have led to a rise in kratom-related rehab visits in the area, including among people like Henry who already struggled with another addiction.

[They] are shocked to learn that theyre exactly where they started  just with a different substance, said Adam Scioli, chief medical officer at Caron Treatment Centers, noting that kratom can damage just about every organ in the body.

Henrys wife, an addiction therapist whom he met in the recovery community, found him dry heaving in their bathroom and took him to the hospital. Henry was transferred to Belmont Behavioral Health System in Philadelphia and sedated for four days until he leveled out again.

I havent touched it since, he said, and I will never touch it again.

Ancient botanical wisdom

Southeastern Pennsylvania is home to a bevy of mom-and-pop kratom shops, wholesalers, and even producers.

Dating back to the 19th century, kratom is made from pulverized leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to countries like Thailand and Indonesia. Often marketed alongside phrases like ancient botanical wisdom, kratom companies champion the drug both as a natural stimulant and a safer alternative to opioids  although the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration maintains it has no medical uses or benefits.

The key ingredient, mitragynine, is a psychoactive alkaloid with pain-relieving properties that act in low doses as a stimulant. A capsule of ground powder or a spoonful in tea has become a popular remedy for some people who live with chronic pain or fatigue  and a big business.

Sean Zamorano was one of the first to get into selling kratom around Philadelphia. He and his wife started using the powdered leaf in 2015 to help them get off opioids.

We saw an improvement  that we didnt want to use, he said. Its a great product, but if youre looking to get high  plain leaf just scratches the itch, the compulsion.

I [felt] like [I was] going to burn this house down or shoot myself in the eyeballs, John Henry, on kratom-induced psychosis.

Zamorano, who later started an online store selling kratom products, saw a darker side emerge over the past two to three years, as far more powerful synthesized 7-OH extracts emerged at smoke shops and gas stations.

Zamorano said producers also add pool shock and other chemicals to increase the strength thousands of times beyond the plants natural potency.

Inquirer reporters visited stores in Philadelphia that sold such products openly. One smoke shop at Third and Christian Streets showcased a wall of multicolored pill packets marketed under narcotic-inspired brand names like Dopium, Perks, and Opia.

While recommended doses vary from 1 to 10 milligrams, pressed pills range between 20 and 50 milligrams. One company, 7 Hydro, sold bottles advertising 230 milligrams of active ingredients, like 7-OH. Some companies even market the products as lickable ice cream cones and other edible treats.

And with no formal labeling conventions for kratom, consumers may be in the dark about a products ingredients, recommended dose, or potential side effects.

You have people starting out with 5 milligrams or less, then theyre taking 50, 60, then 200mg a day, Zamorano said. It latches on and it doesnt let go.

Rising rehab visits

At Caron Treatment Centers, Scioli treated his first kratom patient in 2015, a healthcare worker who had struggled with addiction in the past and was using kratom in part because its often not included in drug screening.

With treatment centers in five states, including three in Pennsylvania, Caron since 2002 has admitted 128 patients who used kratom  70% of whom said it was their primary drug of choice.

Scioli is particularly concerned by patients who use potent kratom extracts like 7-OH, which he says is actually a synthetic opioid. Patients respond to it in a way, he said, thats very, very similar, clinically, to what we see when patients present with an opioid use disorder.

Although the drugs short duration makes it difficult to conclusively link it to overdoses, at least one family in Pa. filed a wrongful-death suit against a kratom manufacturer. And public health officials reported a sharp uptick in 7-OH and kratom-related exposures in the state.

Pennsylvania Poison Centers received 167 calls reporting kratom exposure in patients between 2022 and 2025. Reports of exposure nearly doubled between 2023 and 2024, with patients ranging from infants to octogenarians. The centers reported that 81 people suffered significant illness and 14 people, most of whom had also been exposed to other drugs, had to be placed on a ventilator.

As were seeing products in a lot of gas stations and smoke shops, were getting more and more calls related to it, and clinicians are becoming more aware of these products, said Anthony Jaworski, the director of the Philadelphia Poison Control Center.

Lawmakers have been slow to respond.

Even kratom industry advocates said they are in favor of restricting the heavily synthesized concentrates, which they say are tarnishing the reputation of the comparatively mild plant-based forms of the drug.

Theyre capitalizing on the safety profile of kratom, said Mac Haddow, a senior fellow at the American Kratom Association. They think theyre buying a kratom product. Its done deliberately to confuse consumers.

A legislative wake-up

In September 2024, Pete was six months sober from alcohol and committed to recovery. As he was focusing his career in real estate, he began looking for something nonaddictive to take the edge off after long days at the office.

He turned to kratom  in particular, 7-OH.

I didnt think anything of it, Pete said, whose last name The Inquirer is withholding due to concerns about workplace repercussions from his substance use.

Over the last 10 months, Pete said he spent more than $50,000 fueling and then fighting his new addiction. In June, he returned to an inpatient treatment program where, as with his rehab stint for alcohol, he learned he wasnt alone.

Once in treatment, I wasnt unique  A lot of people in there have had issues with it, Pete said. Anyone and their mother can walk into a gas station and buy this stuff.

Pete said he wished the government had moved sooner to take action on products like 7-OH.

 READ MORE: Kratom is linked with numerous deaths. But it wont be easy for Pennsylvania to ban it.

The DEA moved to schedule these alkaloids in 2016, but then withdrew its petition. This year, federal agencies launched a blitz against kratom companies, issuing warning letters to producers who are putting 7-OH in food and drinks. Last month, federal health officials recommended classifying the drug as an illegal narcotic, a process that could take several months.

In February, state Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R.-Berks) introduced a bill with bipartisan support that would restrict kratom sales in Pennsylvania to people 21 and over, require kratom labels to include ingredients and a recommended dosage, limit concentrations of 7-OH in kratom products, and ban synthetic kratom compounds entirely.

Shes hoping the federal governments focus on 7-OH will renew interest in regulating kratom at the state level.

I think people werent really aware of it. Now theyre starting to wake up and go, Oh gosh, we need to make sure were protecting our kids from this, she said. And if adults are using it, they should know whats in the product.

Pete said he hoped to see manufacturers and distributors of 7-OH products held accountable.

He argued they are no different from pharmaceutical companies that accelerated the opioid crisis, profiting on drugs that killed tens of thousands and ensnared millions in addiction.

Im waiting for the day when a lawyer or someone comes along to do something, he said. These people should be held to a standard.

This article has been updated to reflect the nature of exposures to kratom and 7-OH reported to state poison control centers.
President Donald Trump arrives at Atlantic Aviation in Philadelphia on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Trump was heading to the NCAA wrestling championships at the Wells Fargo Center. Read more

BERLIN  President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after the two leaders meet for a summit later this week in Alaska.

Trump made the comment in response to a question from a reporter after announcing this years Kennedy Center Honors recipients in Washington. He did not say what the consequences might be.

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The remark came soon after Trump consulted with European leaders, who said the president assured them he would make a priority of trying to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine when he speaks with Putin on Friday in Anchorage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined several of Kyivs main allies in the virtual meeting with the U.S. leader, and Zelenskyy told the group that Putin is bluffing ahead of the planned summit about Russias ability to occupy all of Ukraine and shake off sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said afterward that important decisions could be made in Alaska, but he stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected.

Merz convened Wednesdays meeting in an attempt to make sure European and Ukrainian leaders are heard ahead of the summit.

He stressed that a ceasefire must come at the beginning of negotiations. He told reporters that Trump also wants to make this one of his priorities in the meeting with Putin.

At a separate appearance in France, French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit.

Following Fridays summit, Macron added, Trump will seek a future trilateral meeting  one involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy. He said he hoped that it could be held in Europe in a neutral country that is acceptable to all parties.

Merz, who described Wednesdays conversation as constructive and good, said the Europeans made clear that Ukraine must sit at the table as soon as there are follow-up meetings.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

The Ukrainian president, who traveled to Berlin to join the meeting alongside Merz, has repeatedly cast doubt on whether Putin would negotiate in good faith. He said Wednesday that he hoped an immediate ceasefire will be the central topic in Alaska, but also argued that Putin definitely does not want peace.

Zelenskyy said Putin is trying to apply pressure ... on all sectors of the Ukrainian front in an attempt to show that Russia is capable of occupying all of Ukraine. Putin is also bluffing that sanctions do not matter to him and are ineffective, he added. In reality, sanctions are very helpful and are hitting Russias war economy hard.

The stakes for Europe

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, describing Fridays summit as a feel-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leaders intentions.

Yet Trump has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He has also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and the president was dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace. Trump said that following Fridays summit, a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders could be arranged, or that it could also be a meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy and me.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the European Union, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

The overarching fear of many European countries is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Merz said that if there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and the Europeans should and must increase the pressure on Moscow.

Land concessions a non-starter for Kyiv

Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the Ukrainian leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not give up any territory it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focused on ending the war have not addressed key Ukrainian demands, including security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensuring that Europe is included in negotiations.

Three weeks after Trump returned to office, his administration took the leverage of Ukraines NATO membership off the table  something Putin has demanded  and signaled that the EU and Ukraine must handle security in Europe now while America focuses its attention elsewhere.

Senior EU officials believe Trump may be satisfied with simply securing a ceasefire in Ukraine and that he is probably more interested in broader U.S. interests and great power politics, aiming to ramp up business with Russia and rehabilitate Putin.

Russian advances in Donbas

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donbas region that comprises Ukraines eastern industrial heartland, which Putin has long coveted.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles have said Ukraines ability to fend off those advances could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.
People visit the Peace Vigil in Lafayette Square near the White House in Washington, D.C. Read more

Just beyond the tall metal fence encircling the White House, visitors from Europe paused outside a makeshift shelter on the red brick of Pennsylvania Avenue to offer thanks to a graying man in a wheelchair. Then a couple from New Jersey approached with questions. A man asked to take pictures for his wife. Sometimes, a whole tour group would descend, all at once.

Philipos Melaku-Bello is used to this parade of people. Hes been stopped here every few minutes - with questions, challenges, gratitude, offers for help and support - for more than four decades.

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Melaku-Bello, 63, is the longest-serving steward of the White House Peace Vigil, a 44-year protest calling for nuclear disarmament and an end to global conflicts. To maintain its position in Lafayette Square, just across Pennsylvania Avenue and visible from the north side of the White House, the demonstration must be manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Melaku-Bello spends more than 100 hours each week keeping the vigil alive. He is aided by a rotating cast of volunteers. Some stand watch through quiet mornings and scorching lunch breaks. Others work overnight shifts, spending the darkest hours of the day under a tarp covered in flags and banners that read: War is not the answer!

The demonstration is widely considered to be the longest continuous act of political protest in U.S. history. It has survived seven presidents, countless global conflicts, hurricanes and blizzards, heat waves and floods. It has outlasted several U.S. wars, including the Cold War, the Persian Gulf War, the War on Drugs and the War on Terror.

Now, it faces a new threat: Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-New Jersey) wrote a letter to the Interior Department calling the vigil a 24/7 eyesore and accusing the protesters who maintain it of hijacking a national park. He demanded the agency review its legality and, if appropriate, disband the demonstration.

Van Drew did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Let me be clear: nothing in the Constitution guarantees the right to erect permanent structures and occupy public land day after day, year after year, in a manner that creates public safety hazards, degrades the appearance of one of our most iconic parks, and burdens both the District and the National Park Service, Van Drew wrote in May to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

Van Drew is a fourth-term congressman who was initially elected as a Democrat, but changed his party affiliation to Republican in 2020 to protest the first impeachment of President Trump, to whom he pledged his undying support.

Trump has repeatedly pressured D.C. and other cities to do more to target encampments and homelessness. This year, the president issued an executive order that directed the Park Service to remove all homeless encampments from federal land in the District and last month directed federal agencies to find ways to forcibly hospitalize homeless people with mental illness and addiction.

But the peace vigil is not a homeless encampment. Its tent - used by vigil keepers to shelter from the elements - houses literature, signs, water and other supplies. Melaku-Bello and other volunteers maintain homes elsewhere.

A spokeswoman for the Interior Department declined to comment on Van Drews letter or say whether the agency was furnishing a report on the vigil.

While we do not comment on congressional correspondence through the media, the Department of Interior takes all correspondence from Congress seriously and carefully reviews each matter, spokeswoman Elizabeth Peace wrote in an email to The Washington Post.

When asked about the potential threat of removal, Melaku-Bello smiled and gestured to the handwritten copy of the First Amendment he keeps on display. This, he said, is not the first time someone has wanted the vigil disbanded.

- - -

Decades of threats

The Peace Vigil began on June 3, 1981, when its founder, William Thomas, appeared outside of the White House holding a placard that read, Wanted: Wisdom and Honesty.

With time, he accumulated other signs and broadened his message. Soon, it was: Ban All Nuclear Weapons or Have a Nice Doomsday and Live By the Bomb, Die By the Bomb. In his 28 years as the vigils primary keeper, Thomas was homeless on and off, arrested several times for illegally camping in Lafayette Square, and surveilled nearly constantly by the Secret Service.

Still, he amassed a following.

Long before social media could beam a message around the world in an nanosecond, Thomas relied on a network of alternative publications, groups and supporters from out of town to spread the word of his protest. One such supporter was Melaku-Bellos father. It was through him that Melaku-Bello found his way to the vigil.

In 1981, Melaku-Bello was an anarchist kid from Southern California who believed in radical equality, peace and punk rock. He was touring the East Coast with his bandmates, performing at alternative venues - including the original 9:30 Club in D.C. - when he first came to visit the peace vigil.

It was, at the time, a small operation, with Thomas and a handful of others filling out round-the-clock shifts. Melaku-Bello said he volunteered to pull an overnight, three nights in a row, while he was in town. He found it peaceful, he said, staying up in the park as the city emptied and quieted down.

It was basically young people who agreed with this neo-anarchistic ideology of no more wars, no more top-down systems, no more misogyny and racism, Melaku-Bello recalled recently, sitting under an umbrella outside the shelter. That there had to be a better way.

From then on, every time Melaku-Bello found himself in the District for work or art or any other reason, he would make a pilgrimage to the Peace Vigil and relieve the keepers for one night or several.

By the 1990s, Melaku-Bello had moved to the area and secured a job with the Alexandria parks and recreation department. He split his time between the job he got paid to do and the job he gave himself: supporting the peace activists and their mission and filling out the rotating crew of vigil keepers outside the White House. At their peak, Melaku-Bello said, they had a group of about 20 in rotation. That number tends to swell when other big protests come to town.

Today, there are about a half-dozen.

Thomas died of pulmonary disease on Jan. 23, 2009, at the age of 61. His longtime collaborator Concepcion Picciotto became the face of the vigil soon after. Seven years later, Picciotto died after spending three decades of her life outside the White House to stop the world from being destroyed.

Soon, Melaku-Bello, who for decades had been a behind-the-scenes organizer, was thrust into the spotlight. He is the last of the original activists still dedicated to preserving their protest, and, over the past decade, has become its de facto leader - a title that he, a lifelong opponent of hierarchies, rejects.

- - -

Global support

Melaku-Bello said the number of hostile interactions hes had in recent months with passersby has increased - not just compared to what he experienced during the Biden administration, but also compared to President Trumps first term.

The vigil keepers have been physically attacked, spit on, heckled and called names and slurs. On a recent afternoon, a young man wearing a kippah shouted at Melaku-Bello for waving the Palestinian flag. On several occasions, Melaku-Bello has returned to his protest to find posters torn down, kicked in and vandalized. Several are covered in ink.

In its 44-year run, the protest has faced several legal challenges and been under near-constant watch by police agencies that patrol in and around the square, as well as the Park Service, which bans camping in Lafayette Square, requiring that a protest be active to qualify as a First Amendment demonstration.

The vigil has been torn down or removed just a handful of times, according to media accounts. It happened twice roughly a decade ago, when the makeshift structure that shelters the vigil keepers from the elements was left unattended in violation of Park Service rules. The protest was also forced to move from Lafayette Square in 2020, amid confrontations between racial justice demonstrators and police following the murder of George Floyd.

Over the years, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), the Districts longtime nonvoting representative in the House, has aided them in reestablishing their protest after U.S. Park Police have cleared the demonstration.

Norton, who has had a decades-long relationship with the vigil keepers, also became their champion in Congress, helping the activists craft legislation that calls on all countries possessing nuclear weapons to begin the verifiable and irreversible elimination of such weapons.

The delegate has introduced a version of this bill every year since 1994.

In March, she introduced the Nuclear Weapons Abolition and Conversion Act for the 17th time. This year, the delegate included language that would direct the U.S. to redirect resources that are being used for nuclear weapons programs to be used for addressing the climate crisis and human and infrastructure needs, such as housing, health care and restoring the environment. The legislation has never been brought to the House floor for a vote.

Norton, in a statement to The Post, bristled at her colleagues attempt to dismantle the demonstration.

The First Amendment protects peaceful protests, even when theyre seen as unsightly or inconvenient, and even when they occur in front of the White House, Norton said in the statement. The Peace Vigil has stood in front of the White House for more than 30 years, with its organizers engaged in principled activism at considerable personal cost. If Representative Van Drews claim that the vigil creates public safety hazards were valid, it would have been removed long ago.

Finally, Representative Van Drew argues in his letter that the Peace Vigil burdens D.C., but his district is in New Jersey, Norton added. As D.C.s sole member of Congress, Im the best advocate for the District, and I wholeheartedly support the Peace Vigil, its organizers and its message.

Van Dews letter accuses the peace activists of sending the wrong message to law-abiding Americans.

This isnt about stopping a protest. Its about upholding the rule of law, preserving one of Americas most iconic public spaces, and ending a double standard thats made a mockery of both, the congressman wrote.

Despite these recent attacks, Melaku-Bello said the vigils following has only continued to grow.

He frequently gives interviews to international press and relies on social media to communicate with followers and donors. Melaku-Bello - who speaks eight languages fluently and is as comfortable quoting Black Sabbath as he is Stokely Carmichael - has amassed supporters in countries all over the globe, and has used his platforms to speak out against global conflicts and, most recently, Trumps protectionist trade policies.

I have a big following in the Philippines, I mean, I have a big following on a lot of continents, Melaku-Bello said with a chuckle. A lot of times theyll send me messages through WhatsApp or through Instagram or Facebook Messenger. Theyll send me articles that will come out in their country about us. Its cool.

On a recent afternoon, Melaku-Bello balanced an open umbrella on the arm of his wheelchair to shield himself from the sun as temperatures crept close to 100 degrees and the bustle of Lafayette Square simmered.

Music from a trombone player across the street lilted past. Vendors hawking cold water, political T-shirts and, occasionally, ice cream greeted him like an old friend as they patrolled the plaza. A man on a scooter paused to assure Melaku-Bello that he would be back soon - to do an overnight shift at the vigil.

Then, a woman approached.

Thank you for your protest, said the woman, a German journalist named Ulrike Schirmer. You are a single man, but you do more than many leaders do at the moment.

Melaku-Bello bowed his head in a gesture of gratitude.

We are going together into the future, Schirmer continued. Thats my interest here. Not people trying to force us to separate.

Thank you, sister, he said.

As she turned to go, he waved - to her and others who paused to watch the exchange - then settled back into his chair, ready for another photo, another hello, another round of questions.

Hes got time, after all. Hell be here all day, maybe all night.

And then back again tomorrow.
Deborah and Jim Fullam always loved trips to the Shore with their families. They owned a condo in Cape May in the early 1980s, and rented houses in Sea Isle City for a week or two each summer once they sold the Cape May home.

In 2008, when they heard about an auction for condominiums in The Pointe at Moores Inlet in North Wildwood, they drove down from Doylestown to check it out.

When we walked into the Borgata for the auction, there must have been 3,000 people in the room, recalled Jim, a consultant for Summerwood Corp. in Conshohocken. We almost walked out.

But, fortunately for the Fullams, most in the crowd were spectators, not bidders. The couple scored a unit in the new building, appreciating its close proximity to the beach and walkability to shopping and restaurants in Wildwood.

Then in 2015, they seized on an opportunity to move into a different unit in the same building with views of the ocean.

When we first bought it we were busy with work, so this was our escape, said Deborah, who retired in 2021 from her job in the pharmaceutical industry. Now we spend a couple of months here in the summer.

The two-story, four-bedroom, three-bathroom condo has plenty of room to share with their two children and six grandchildren between the ages of 1 and 11. The families live in Florida and Massachusetts, so their time together at the beach is especially meaningful.

From the homes main living area, they can see the ocean through a full wall of sliding glass doors. Those views extend to the dining table.

Farther back sits the kitchen with white cabinets and dramatically contrasting black and gold granite countertops.

Deborah and Jim both enjoy cooking. When they renovated the kitchen in 2020, the couple added more counter space and extra drawers to make it more user-friendly. They installed a new backsplash, cabinets, and flooring, and bought a Samsung refrigerator.

The Fullams invite company almost every weekend, cooking one night and hitting restaurants in Cape May or other neighboring towns the other night. They enjoy the camaraderie of everyone pitching in to cook. Their son and his family, including three grandchildren, spend the month of July there.

Its wonderful getting to spend all of that devoted time together, said Deborah. Our 7-year-old grandson Jay calls this his happy place and the front bedroom his bedroom.

That first-floor room includes a pair of beds with cheerful bedspreads for the little ones. The primary bedroom sits behind the living room, with a large doorway providing sweeping views of the ocean. One of the condos two guest bedrooms is also on this floor.

The second floor features a sitting area, a guest bedroom with its own balcony, and a bathroom. Deborahs favorite artwork, sitting on the wall at the top of the stairs, is a print of sailboats by Jan Vermeer that she purchased at the Good Stuff Thrift Shop in Doylestown.

Deborah, who has a knack for interior design, spearheaded renovations over the winter 2024 into 2025, gutting two of the bathrooms, adding a new closet, and painting the 2,000-square-foot unit in pale shades of blue.

She took a couple of courses in staging and design, which gave her the confidence to tackle her bathrooms. A guest bathroom includes a gray-tiled shower with a black, white, and gray geometric pattern in the tile floor. The primary bathroom includes a white-tiled shower and a gray double vanity with chrome hardware.

The couple spend a lot of time on the front deck, looking out at the ocean and onto the beach. Jim sits on the tall lifeguard-style chair, taking in the views while Deborah sits on the rocking chair reading. Its where they enjoy morning coffee or a pre-dinner cocktail with guests.

Our grandchildren love to sit on the deck, sitting with me or reading books, Deborah said.

They enjoy spending time on the beach and also take advantage of the condos swimming pool, especially when their grandchildren are visiting.

The couple take long walks on the beach, around Stone Harbors bird sanctuary, and around Cape Mays lighthouse. They often walk into Wildwood to grab a cup of coffee or check out the shops.

I could walk on the beach forever, said Jim.
The other main improvements for brokers, he said, are in his firms service proposition at the front end and all the way through our business. Hill said this is setting up a more service-focused culture. That's everything fundamental, like calling first before sending an email  so those fundamentals of service and trying to uplift them, he said. We've still got a way to go but you know, progress has been made.
The Kharkiv Regional Court has found a 29-year-old resident of Lyptsy guilty of aiding and abetting an aggressor state (Part 1, Article 111-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

"He was sentenced to 11 years of imprisonment with deprivation of the right to hold positions in state power, state administration, local self-government bodies related to the performance of organizational, managerial and administrative and economic functions for a period of 11 years," the press service of the Kharkiv Regional Prosecutor's Office reported.

As it was established, during the occupation of Lyptsy, a local resident accompanied cars with Russian military personnel so that they could better navigate the terrain to fulfill their combat missions against the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

In May 2022, the accused, together with Russian military personnel, arrived at a fellow villager and asked the owner to leave the house. When he opened the gate and went outside the fence, one of the occupiers hit him several times in the head. They entered the yard, approached the owner's car, opened it and threw the owner's personal belongings out of the cabin.

When the defendant and the Russian military realized that they would not be given the keys and that they would not be able to start the engine, they went to their car, in which they arrived at the scene, took a cable there, connected it to the victim's car and drove away.

At the court hearing, the defendant pleaded not guilty.

The verdict has not entered into force. The appeal period is ongoing.
The Steadfast Graduate Program is more than just a career launchpad  its an invitation to be part of an industry that protects communities and drives innovation. Were looking for passionate graduates who want to make a meaningful impact in insurance and grow with a values-led organisation, Yale said.
Misconceptions about insurance work

Theres also the need to correct misconceptions about the industry. Krynauw said her firm recently did a survey of graduates and people new to the workforce in Singapore. One of the standout takeaways was that they were under the impression insurance professionals were less well paid than many other white-collar industries  but thats not the case, she said.
In North Queensland, where the pool was expected to have the greatest impact, strata owners can still face annual premiums of $13,500. Others have lost coverage entirely. Townsville Lot Owners Group spokesperson Andrew Turnour said the ACCC reported in 2016 that 17% of properties in North Queensland were uninsured, with recent estimates putting that figure at 30%. Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby chair Tyrone Shandiman said the gap between high- and low-risk areas remains over 100%, meaning those in disaster-prone zones can pay more than twice the rate of safer regions.
Rodenhuis (pictured above, left) has more than a decade of experience at Northwestern Mutual, having most recently served as senior vice president and head of global digital products and capabilities at Capital Group. From 2005 to 2019, she held multiple leadership roles at Northwestern Mutual, including as chief transformation officer.
CIC appealed, hoping to convince the higher court that any business dealings with an Ohio company should be enough to establish jurisdiction. The appellate judges, however, saw it differently. On August 11, they affirmed the lower courts decision, emphasizing that CGreen and LCPs roles were limited to the New York project and that they hadnt chosen to do business in Ohio. The fact that the contracts called for disputes to be settled in New York only reinforced their position.
The outcome leaves most of Carpenters claims resolved in Liberty Mutuals favor, with only one extra-contractual claim left to be decided. For insurance professionals, the case is a reminder of the importance of clear settlement terms, the enforceability of policy clauses, and the limits of statutory remedies for claimants. It also highlights how insurers can structure settlement offers and the necessity for both sides to agree on all material terms before a settlement is binding. The decision reinforces insurer leverage in UIM disputes and the importance of mutual agreement before any settlement becomes binding.
Connecticuts economy depends on small businesses, which represent more than 99% of all businesses in the state, said Joh Swigart, co-founder and CEO of Pie Insurance. At Pie, we believe every business warrants coverage that fits their reality. Whether youre operating a family restaurant in New Haven or a construction company in Hartford, you deserve insurance that understands your business and prices risk fairly.
Pie Insurance announced it is now offering its data-driven workers compensation insurance in Connecticut, targeting the states more than 365,000 small businesses.

Connecticuts economy depends on small businesses, which represent more than 99% of all businesses in the state, said John Swigart, co-founder and CEO of Pie Insurance. At Pie, we believe every business warrants coverage that fits their reality.

The company says its proprietary technology delivers instant pricing decisions on 73% of class codes and more accurate pricing for small businesses that may often face limited options and higher premiums due to traditional insurers inability to granularly assess risk for diverse business types.

Pie says its focus on granular, sophisticated pricing, and data-driven customer segmentation enables it to match price with risk accurately across small business types,

Connecticuts economy spans healthcare, construction, retail, professional services, manufacturing, and food serviceindustries with varying safety requirements and risk profiles. The Pie Insurance 2025 Workplace Safety Survey found that 50% of small business injuries are preventable, with average out-of-pocket costs exceeding $10,000 per incident. Pie advocates that proper coverage and proactive safety measures can mean significant savings for small businesses.

Small businesses often operate without HR teams or safety departments, said Carla Woodard, senior vice president of claims at Pie. We go beyond servicing policies and paying claims. Were providing practical insights that help employers create and maintain safer work environments.

In March, AM Best affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of a- (Excellent) of Pie and its affiliates and assigned a stable outlook to these credit ratings..

Pie, which since 2017 has received more than $615 million in funding, now offers workers comp in 39 states and Washington, D.C., serving more than 50,000 policyholders nationwide. It also continues to grow its national network of more than 5,000 appointed agencies and welcomes inquiries from Connecticut agents.

Topics InsurTech Workers' Compensation Data Driven Talent New Markets Connecticut
A United States Steel Corp. plant in Pennsylvania that experienced an explosion that killed at least two people has a history of accidents and violations over the past 15 years.

The Clairton Coke Works plant near Pittsburgh, the biggest facility of its kind in the US, has been the site of multiple fires, accidents and violations in recent years that resulted in worker injuries, lawsuits and fines.

The explosion on Monday took place inside a battery operating area at around 10:51 a.m. local time, according to Allegheny County police.

The blast comes after years of US Steel underinvesting in its facilities, a major factor in the companys historic takeover by Nippon Steel Corp.

While this is a sad and extreme event, its in a long line of failures that have taken place at this facility over many years, said David Masur, executive director at environmental group PennEnvironment. It needs a full investigation to find out if this is a plant that should continue to operate.

Nippon Steel is working closely with US Steel and is committed to providing all necessary resources to support the healing and recovery process, a spokesperson of the Japanese company said in an email.

US Steel is working closely with authorities to investigate the cause of the explosion, Chief Executive Officer David Burritt said in a statement. The company didnt respond to a request for comment about the plants history.

PennEnvironment and other groups sued US Steel over a fire at Clairton that broke out Christmas Eve 2018 along with power outages in 2019 and 2022. The suit argued that the fire was caused by a chain reaction of avoidable failures that resulted from decades of disrepair and problems. US Steel settled that lawsuit last year for a total of $42 million in penalties and upgrades.

The Allegheny County Health Department has cited the Clairton plant for various violations every year since 2018. Those include removing coke from ovens without first capturing the emissions, which resulted in a $1.9 million penalty for the company last year.

And in 2010, an explosion and fire at the plant injured 15 workers, including 14 with burns, after a coke oven exploded.

The incident on Monday comes less than two months after Nippon Steel closed its $14.1 billion acquisition of US Steel following a protracted and increasingly political saga. As part of its revised takeover agreement, the Japanese steelmaker committed to invest billions of dollars to boost steel output at US Steels Mon Valley Works facility and modernize its mills. Clairton is part of the Mon Valley complex.

Operational Priority

Committing significant capital expenditure to upgrade and modernize US Steels Mon Valley Works facilities, where founder Andrew Carnegie built his first mill in the 1870s, has been an operational priority for the company for years. Its been well known among steel industry veterans that the Mon Valley had gone far too long without significant investment.

And that investment was a critical pivot point in Nippon Steels bid to buy the company. United Steelworkers leadership was adamant about the need for the Japanese steelmaker and any other potential buyer to put significant capital into the facilities, which includes Clairton, as real investment would lead to safer workplaces and give decades of new life to the plants  critical to guaranteeing at least another generation of jobs in the Allegheny region.

Clairton is the largest manufacturing facility in the US for coke, a key ingredient for making steel. The plant, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Pittsburgh on the west bank of the Monongahela River, operates 10 coke oven batteries and produces about 4.3 million tons of coke per year, according to US Steel.

Asked whether there were any concerns before the explosion, US Steel Senior Vice President Scott Buckiso said at a news conference Monday the two ovens connected to the blast were in good condition in terms of productivity and safety.

Thats why its important that we get the investigation done properly, he said.

Photo: Ambulances outside the US Steel Clairton Coke Works facility in Clairton, Pennsylvania, on Aug. 11. Photographer: Rebecca Droke/AFP/Getty Images

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics USA
Activist investor 7Square is pushing German insurer Nuernberger Beteiligungs AG to consider rival takeover offers, saying a potential acquisition by Vienna Insurance Group wouldnt reflect its full value.

The life-insurance business and the property/casualty operations of Nuernberger have underperformed for years, 7Square wrote in a letter to board members seen by Bloomberg News. VIG announced last week its in exclusive due diligence on the potential acquisition of a controlling stake in the German company, without specifying a possible price.

Nuernberger should immediately terminate discussions with VIG and announce a plan to explore all strategic options, according to 7Square. The investor, which holds an unspecified stake in Nuernberger, said the German group could be worth about 119 to 143 per share, or as much as 1.6 billion ($1.9 billion). Shares of Nuernberger fell 0.7% in Frankfurt trading Tuesday to 60.80, giving it a market value of 700 million.

We have concrete knowledge of the interest of several strategic investors who would be interested in acquiring the life-insurance division or the entire Nuernberger Group as part of a transparent and fair process, 7Square wrote in the letter.

A representative for Nuernberger didnt have any immediate comment. A spokesperson for VIG declined to comment.

Nuernbergers investors include Munich Re, Swiss Re AG and Japans T&D Holdings Inc. 7Square is also calling on Nuernberger to lift transfer restrictions on its shares, which effectively require the management board to approve significant stock transactions.

In another case last year, Swiss insurer Baloise AG removed voting-rights restrictions on its shares, which opened the door for activist investor Cevian Capital to have a greater say and eventually led to a sale of the company.

Because Nuernberger shares are listed on the Frankfurt bourses lower-tier Scale segment, an acquirer of a majority stake wouldnt be required to make a mandatory offer for the remaining shares. 7Square said a takeover without making an offer to other investors would permanently reduce the value for all shareholders.

It is imperative that the examination of strategic alternatives is carried out neutrally, transparently and carefully in the interests of the company, in particular in the interests of all shareholders, 7Square said. Thats all the more important given the companys devastating operating situation and poor market valuation, according to the investor.

7Square has typically advised hedge funds and activist shareholders on publicly listed German companies, though it also occasionally invests on its own.

Photograph: The old town of the city of Nuremberg, Germany; photo credit: Christian Ender/Getty Images

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk and Speaker of the Swedish Parliament Andreas Norlen agreed on actions to achieve a fair peace in Ukraine.

"I have had a telephone conversation with the Speaker of the Riksdag of Sweden Andreas Norlen. We discussed coordinated actions with partners aimed at achieving a fair and sustainable peace in Ukraine. I thanked him for his clear and principled position that any agreements on Ukraine cannot be made without its participation and taking into account its interests," Stefanchuk wrote on Facebook on Wednesday.

Stefanchuk noted that he and his colleague are united in the position that sanctions and political pressure on Russia should continue.

"I emphasized: Ukrainians want peace, but only on fair terms and with reliable security guarantees, so that Russia can no longer threaten Ukraine and other European countries. That is why it is important to maintain military and financial support until decisions are made that will fully comply with these principles, and at the same time increase sanction pressure on the aggressor," Stefanchuk emphasized.
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at the broker Aon and the Lloyds managing agent Blenheim Underwriting.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

Aon Promotes Shukri as UK Reinsurance Client Services Leader

Insurance broker Aon plc announced that Mehmet Shukri has been appointed head of UK Client Services for Aons Reinsurance Solutions, effective immediately.

He previously served as the deputy head of UK Claims and Client Services for Aons Reinsurance Solutions.

Based in London and reporting to Steve Clark, global head of claims and client services advocacy, Shukri will accelerate client value in line with the firms global Reinsurance Solutions advocacy proposition, ensuring all Aon clients receive expert claims support.

Our clients are placing increasing importance on claims and accounting services, for good reason, commented Leonora Siccardi, chief claims officer for Reinsurance Solutions at Aon. Mehmets appointment reflects our continued investment in leaders who are dedicated to delivering the best experience aligned to their needs, as well as developing new and innovative solutions in a challenging macroeconomic and geopolitical environment.

***

Blenheim Underwriting Taps Stratton-Thomsett From MS Amlin as Casualty Underwriter

Blenheim Underwriting, the Lloyds managing agent and subsidiary of White Bear Capital, announced the appointment of Alex Stratton-Thomsett as casualty underwriter, effective Jan. 8, 2026.

In his new role, Stratton-Thomsett will join David Barber, senior casualty underwriter, in the build out of the MGA casualty account.

Stratton-Thomsett brings with him 25 years of experience and expertise in the casualty market, joining from MS Amlin, where he was lead underwriter, U.S. casualty. The role reunites him with Barber after a successful 14 years together at Chaucer.

Were thrilled to welcome Alex to the team, marking a significant step forward in the expansion of our casualty MGA book and making it one of the stronger units in this specialist marketplace, commented Barber. Its another endorsement of our independent structure, which continues to attract top-tier underwriting talent, that can sometimes get lost in larger organizations.

Topics Underwriting Leadership Reinsurance Aon Casualty Mississippi
Water levels in this major source of drinking water for Rapid City were so low this spring that city leaders implemented water-use restrictions weeks earlier than normal and the state delayed installation of public boat docks.

Lingering drought conditions and low levels of inflow from sources that feed the Pennington County reservoir were the main culprits for the water shortage.

While heavy and consistent rains in July and August have bolstered water levels in Pactola, the spring shortage was a cautionary sign for officials who monitor water availability and for city residents who rely on the water.

Now, in another concerning development, a new in-depth federal hydrology study of the entire Black Hills region indicates that some of the aquifers that supply water to this growing region of western South Dakota are not keeping up with demand.

The study of water availability in six bedrock aquifers in the Black Hills was completed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and published on July 30. The report showed that water use within some of the six sub-aquifers in the Black Hills is outpacing the rate at which the aquifers are refilling.

James Jones, a senior project manager with AE2S, an engineering firm that works on water issues in South Dakota, said the portions of the Madison and Minnelusa aquifers that showed water deficiencies were in the most populated and highest growth areas of the Black Hills. Those areas, Jones said, stretched roughly from Box Elder on the east through Rapid City and Summerset to Sturgis on the west.

Were going to have a much higher population and higher draw on those resources, so we have some concerns because were already exceeding the recharge rate in those areas, Jones said. We dont feel that this level of growth and use of the Madison (aquifer) is sustainable.

Report bolsters argument for Missouri pipeline

The new USGS report adds further fuel to ongoing efforts to build a $2 billion pipeline from the Missouri River to numerous destinations in western South Dakota.

Discussions have taken place for several years on the idea of building a pipeline to bring water to the fast-growing region of western South Dakota anchored by Rapid City and the Black Hills.

The concept picked up steam in late 2019 when the Western Dakota Water Development District received results of a study it commissioned by the South Dakota School of Mines.

The report showed that water availability in the Black Hills region would not meet current demand during a drought and eventually will not need demand in an average rainfall year. The study also concluded that a pipeline from the Missouri River was a valid option.

Based on current use and water demand projections, the regions ability to provide water during drought conditions without utilizing surface water and groundwater storage is limited and will worsen as population increases, the study concluded. While expensive and challenging, it is feasible to transport Missouri River water to the Rapid City region.

In response to the findings, the nonprofit Western Dakota Regional Water System (WDRWS) was formed in September 2021 to actively pursue the data, political support and funding to make the pipeline project a reality.

In the spring of 2022, the WDRWS received a big boost in its efforts when the South Dakota Legislature approved $8 million in grant funding from the American Rescue Plan Act enacted by the Biden administration to develop engineering and feasibility reports.

In each of the following years, championed by state Sen. Helene Duhamel of Rapid City, the system has received another $1 million to further pursue studies needed to support the project. Last fall, the South Dakota congressional delegation proposed measures seeking $10 million in matching funds to help pay for a full federal feasibility study required by the federal Bureau of Reclamation to get the project started.

Pipeline would serve much of western SD

Kristin Conzet, a former lawmaker from Rapid City who is now director of the WDRWS, said the current proposal is to build a 161-mile, 72-inch diameter pipeline from the Missouri River with a 2,000 foot elevation lift along the way.

In all, 47 municipalities or water systems from Winner to Fort Pierre to Rapid City have signed on as partners in the project and could receive water from the system once operational, she said.

In addition, the nonprofit group is also looking at potential avenues to capture and redistribute groundwater or surface water in the northern and western Black Hills areas that tend to have surplus supplies.

This is just about proving clean, reliable water in the future and could take two decades or more of hard work and funding, Conzet told News Watch.

Were trying to replicate what seven water systems in eastern South Dakota are already doing, she said of the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System that launched in 1990 and will pipe Missouri River water to about 350,000 people in South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa.

If this project was laid out A to Z, under each letter is 100 things that must be done, she said. I wish we could have a big shiny thing to show people right now. But in order to turn the first shovel of dirt, all these things must get done, in order and correctly.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
A Michigan financial advisor will stand trial for insurance fraud after waiving preliminary examination, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced this week.

Todd Bernstein, 67, of Birmingham, is alleged to have submitted misleading information on annuity suitability applications on behalf of his clients, who were over the age of 65, to conceal that new annuities were being purchased with proceeds from early surrendered annuities.

Berstein faces four counts of Insurance Fraud, each a 4-year felony.

Consumers must be able to trust financial professionals to act truthfully and in their best interests, said Nessel at the time of the arraignment. My department remains committed to protecting Michigan residents from illegal and predatory business practices.

A pretrial date has not yet been set.

Topics Fraud Michigan
The all-girls Christian summer camp where 27 people, most of them children, were swept away and killed by the July 4 flooding in Kerr County was just one of 13 summer camps along the Guadalupe River built on land prone to flooding.

The two Camp Mystic cabins where most of the flood victims were sleeping are in the Guadalupe River floodway, an area along waterways considered to be the most hazardous during a flood. Many of Mystics other buildings are located in the 100-year floodplain, considered to be less hazardous than a floodway but still prone to flooding during a severe storm.

Twelve other summer camps along the river in Kerr and Kendall counties are at least partially built on land within the 100-year floodplain, according to a Texas Tribune analysis of flood and property maps along the Guadalupe River.

Unfortunately, Im not surprised, said Sarah Pralle, a Syracuse University associate professor who studies environmental policy. We overbuild in flood zones everywhere across the country  but with camps its especially worrisome. Youre not just putting yourself at risk, youre putting these children at risk who youre supposed to be looking out for their safety.

Five summer camps, including Mystic, have at least one-third of their camp structures located in the 100-year floodplain. That includes Heart O the Hills Camp in Hunt, where no campers were present but the camps longtime director was killed in the flooding.

Camp Capers in Waring, Camp Stewart for Boys in Hunt and Camp Waldemar in Hunt also have at least a third of their structures located in the 100-year floodplain.

The owner of Camp Waldemar, Meg Clark, testified before a legislative committee last week that all of its cabins are located on a bluff above the floodplain, allowing the camp to shelter in place until the river receded.

The Tribune analyzed Federal Emergency Management Agency maps used to determine flood risk for the National Flood Insurance Program. The maps help determine insurance rates for structures located within them and are often used by local governments to regulate new construction in the floodplain.

However, experts say the maps underestimate the risk posed. The modeling used to map 100-year floodplains, which have a 1% chance of flooding in any given year, is out of date because it is based on rainfall totals that have increased in recent decades as the climate warms and the warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture.

Satellite imagery reviewed by the Tribune shows the number of structures in the floodplain but doesnt indicate the function of every structure.

The eight other summer camps with at least one-third of their structures located in the 100-year floodplain include:

Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly in Hunt Bear Creek Scout Camp in Hunt Camp La Junta in Hunt Camp Rio Vista for Boys in Ingram Camp Sierra Vista for Girls in Ingram Camp Honey Creek For Girls in Hunt Kickapoo Kamp for Girls in Kerrville Hermann Sons Life Camp-Riverside in Comfort

Camp La Junta evacuated all of its campers during the flooding and saw no injuries or deaths, according to a Facebook post.

Camps Rio Vista and Sierra Vista, which are owned and operated jointly, reported significant damage to the camps on social media.

A representative for Hermann Sons Life Camp-Riverside said the camps two buildings located in the floodplain were vacant but declined to comment further.

The 12 other camps with structures located within the floodplain did not respond to or declined requests to comment for this article.

Most camps are grandfathered out of current flood zone rules

How are so many summer camp structures located in the most flood-prone areas along the river?

Nearly all of the 13 camps are located outside of city limits. In Texas, county governments have no authority to implement zoning rules that could limit construction within the 100-year floodplain.

And many of these camps were built before the flood modeling was done and the risks were fully understood. This also allows them to be grandfathered out of any newer regulations for properties in the floodplain, and to obtain lower flood insurance rates. Only two of the 13 camps with property in the flood plain are not grandfathered.

Buildings that are significantly damaged by flooding typically lose that status once they are repaired or rebuilt.

Some guardrails exist when it comes to building on flood plains. For property owners in flood-prone areas to tap federal flood insurance, local governments have to enact minimum building standards set by the federal government. Property owners can also purchase private flood insurance, but it is typically more expensive.

Property owners can also contest FEMA floodplain designations to avoid the increased regulation and higher flood insurance rates that come with new construction in flood-prone areas. Camp Mystic, which opened in 1926 and has grandfathered status, successfully petitioned FEMA in 2013, 2019 and 2020 to remove some of its buildings from the 100-year flood map ahead of a camp expansion.

Many flood maps are out of date and dont give a true picture of the flood risk, Pralle said.

Higher temperatures speed up evaporation from oceans and other bodies of water, and warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to more intense and frequent storms, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Upward of 12 inches of rain fell in some areas of Hill Country on the morning of July 4.

And development replaces water-aborbing vegetation with impermeable surfaces like streets and rooftops that increase runoff into streams and rivers.

Flood maps are not really showing you the accurate risk, so you would think camps would go the extra mile to be extra careful knowing the floodwaters could very likely go far beyond those lines, Pralle said. Risks dont stop when they hit a line on a map, so the idea that its somehow less risky if youre outside the flood zone is not true.

Lawmaker weigh bills on disaster, evacuation plans for camps

Two special legislative committees appointed to come up with proposals in response to the July 4 weekend floods have mainly focused on disaster response rather than floodplain building regulations.

The House committee passed House Bill 19, which would require any property with cabins or designated spaces for camping to develop a flood disaster plan. The bill doesnt stipulate what exactly the plan has to include, leaving that up to the Texas Division of Emergency Management.

Another bill would require all campgrounds in floodplains to have emergency evacuation plans that they would have to follow anytime the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning. It would also require campground cabins to have ladders so people could climb onto rooftops as a last resort.

Texas Floodplain Management Association Executive Director Christopher Steubing said summer camps naturally want to be located near bodies of water, and the best way to prevent disaster in these areas is by educating property owners and visitors about flood risks. Better education on the risks would allow for better planning to make sure campers and camp staff can respond quickly in the event of a flood, Steubing said.

If youre going to be responsible for these lives that are coming in, and I think you see the Legislature starting to move in this direction, youve got to have certain things in place, and theyve got to be practiced, Steubing said.

There was no warning

Camp CAMP in Center Point, which serves children and adults with developmental, behavioral and physical disabilities, was built on a ridge 90 feet above the Guadalupe River, where campers swim, canoe and do other recreational activities, but the camp intentionally avoided building permanent structures along the riverbank, said Brandon Briery, the camps chief operating officer.

With the most recent flood, there was no warning, Briery said. We wouldnt have known to get things to higher ground, and would have just lost anything of any substance that was down there.

The camp did lose a shed that stored river recreation equipment, along with several portable toilets for campers, Briery said. A pavilion constructed by local Eagle Scouts managed to survive the force of the water, Briery added.

Better warning systems and tighter government regulations are needed, Briery said, and camps need to understand the risks for their individual properties and act accordingly.

I think that every organization, every property owner, has to make decisions for themselves, Briery said. Because of how were situated and how we utilize things, we mitigate a lot of risk. But I cant really say for other camps what they should be doing. They have to make their decisions on their risk.

Disclosure: Facebook as been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribunes journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2025/08/13/texas-hill-country-summer-camps-kerrville-floodplain/.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.

Topics Texas Flood
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed against a Florida apartment complex where a member of the U.S. Air Force was fatally shot by a sheriffs deputy. The judge said the unnamed apartment employee who called police was not acting negligently or punitively, despite the fact that the airman was not involved in a domestic disturbance.

 Dragging the apartment complex (and Ms. Doe) into this lawsuit contravenes the public policy underlying the reporting privilege and sends the wrong message to the public, U.S. District Judge Kent Wetherell wrote in his order Monday. It also undermines public safety because if see something, say something becomes see something, say something, get sued, concerned citizens will be discouraged from reporting potential criminal activity or public safety issues to law enforcement.

Airman Roger Fortson, 23, from Atlanta, was shot and killed May 3, 2024, at his own apartment in Fort Walton Beach, near Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field in the Florida Panhandle. Another tenant had told management at the Chaz Elan apartment complex about an argument that sounded like it was becoming physical. An employee of the apartments, whose name was never released by law enforcement or the complex, then called the sheriffs non-emergency number to report the disturbance.

It turned out that Fortson was alone in his apartment but was on a Facetime call with his girlfriend, the court explained. A deputy sheriff banged on the door. When Fortson opened the door, with his own sidearm pointed down, the deputy shot the young man five times, causing his death, according to court documents and news reports.

Fortsons family, represented by famed civil rights and plaintiffs attorney Ben Crump as well as a Pensacola law firm, argued in the lawsuit that the apartment employee, referred to as Ms. Doe, negligently escalated the urgency and had no direct knowledge of an alleged disturbance. On a social media post, Fortsons mom had suggested that the airman had been targeted and that the apartment employee and others were seen laughing about the incident after the shooting, according to court documents.

But the judge said that Florida law gives qualified privilege to people reporting suspected criminal activity to law enforcement.

The claims against Chez Elan (apartments) are borderline frivolous because the complaint and its attachments establish that Ms. Doe did precisely what any concerned citizen should do under these circumstances: She called law enforcement, provided the information she had, and then let law enforcement investigate, Judge Wetherell wrote. From that point forward, whatever happened is on law enforcement, not Ms. Doeor the apartment complex.

The Fortson wrongful death lawsuit had also named the sheriff and the deputy, but those claims were not dismissed by the judge. Criminal charges have been filed against the deputy, who was fired after the shooting.

The insurer for the Chaz Elan property was not named in the court filings. The complex was represented by attorneys with Cole, Scott and Kissane, a large Florida law firm known for its insurance defense work.

Photo: Chantemekki Fortson holds a photo of her son during a news conference in 2024. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Topics Lawsuits Florida Legislation
Ford Motor Co. will invest nearly $2 billion retooling a Kentucky factory to produce electric vehicles that it says will be more affordable, more profitable to build and will outcompete rival models.

The automakers top executive unveiled the new EV strategy at Fords Louisville Assembly Plant which, after producing gas-powered vehicles for 70 years, will be converted to manufacture electric vehicles.

In our careers, as automobile people were lucky if we get to work on one, maybe two, projects that really change the face of our industry, CEO Jim Farley told plant workers in Kentucky on Monday. And I believe today is going to light the match as one of those projects for all of us here.

The Big Detroit automakers have continued to transition from internal combustion engines to EV technology even as President Donald Trumps administration unwinds incentives for automakers to go electric. Trumps massive tax and spending law targets EV incentives, including the imminent removal of a credit that saves buyers up to $7,500 on a new electric car.

Yet Farley and other top executives in the auto industry say that electric vehicles are the future and there is no going back.

The first EV to be produced by the revamped Louisville production process will be a midsize, four-door electric pickup truck in 2027 for domestic and international markets, the company said Monday.

The new electric trucks will feature plenty of interior space to fit five adults and pack enough power to have a targeted 0-60 time as fast as a Mustang EcoBoost but with more downforce, Ford said

The electric trucks will be powered by lower-cost batteries made at a Ford factory in Michigan. The Detroit automaker previously announced a $3 billion investment to build the battery factory.

The automaker sees this as a Model T moment for its EV business  a reference to revolutionary changes on the production line led by the companys founder, Henry Ford, when it began churning out vehicles from a factory more than a century ago. Farley said the changes will upend how electric vehicles are made in the U.S.

It represents the most radical change on how we design and how we build vehicles at Ford since the Model T, Farley said.

The company said it will use a universal platform and production system for its EVs, essentially the underpinning of a vehicle that can be applied across a wide range of models.

The Louisville factory  one of two Ford assembly plants in Kentuckys largest city  will be revamped to cut production costs and make assembly time faster as its prepared to churn out electric vehicles.

The result will be an affordable electric vehicle that we expect to be profitable, Farley said in an interview with The Associated Press ahead of the announcement. This is an example of us rejuvenating our U.S. plants with the most modern manufacturing techniques.

The new platform enables a lineup of affordable vehicles to be produced at scale, Ford said. It will reduce parts by 20% versus a typical vehicle, with 25% fewer fasteners, 40% fewer workstations dock-to-dock in the plant and a 15% faster assembly time, Ford said.

The traditional assembly line will be transformed into an assembly tree at the Louisville plant, the company said. Instead of one long conveyor, three subassembly lines will operate simultaneously and then join together, it said.

Other specifications for the midsize electric truck  including its reveal date, starting price, EPA-estimated battery range, battery sizes and charge times  will be announced later, the company said. Farley revealed that the truck will have a targeted starting price of about $30,000.

Ford said its investment in the Louisville plant will secure 2,200 hourly jobs.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday that the automakers plans for the Louisville plant will strengthen a more than century-old partnership between Ford and the Bluegrass State.

This announcement not only represents one of the largest investments on record in our state, it also boosts Kentuckys position at the center of EV-related innovation and solidifies Louisville Assembly Plant as an important part of Fords future, Beshear said.

Ford said its combined investment of about $5 billion at the Kentucky assembly plant and Michigan battery plant is expected to create or secure nearly 4,000 direct jobs between the two plants while strengthening the domestic supply chain with dozens of new U.S.-based suppliers.

Ford previously forecast weaker earnings growth for this year and further losses in its electric vehicles business as it works to control costs. Model e, Fords electric vehicle business, posted a full-year loss of $5.08 billion for 2024 as revenue fell 35% to $3.9 billion.

Fords new EV strategy comes as Chinese automakers are quickly expanding across the globe, offering relatively affordable electric vehicles.

Were not in a race to build the most electric cars, Farley told the AP when asked about competition from China. Were in a race to have a sustainable electric business thats profitable, that customers love.

And this new vehicle built in Louisville, Kentucky, is going to be a much better solution to anything that anyone can buy from China, he added.

Ford could have opted to launch its EV project overseas to reap lower-cost labor and currency advantages but instead is taking the fight to our competition from the plant in Kentucky, Farley said at Mondays event. But the Ford CEO cautioned that there are no guarantees with project.

Were doing so many new things I cant tell you with 100% certainty that this will all go just right, he said. It is a bet. There is risk. The automotive industry has a graveyard littered with affordable vehicles that were launched in our country with all good intentions. And they fizzled out with idle plants, laid off workers and red ink. And at Ford  we set out to break that cycle.

Photo: Ford CEO Jim Farley at the announcement at the Ford Louisville Assembly Plant (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Kentucky
Greystar Real Estate Partners LLC reached a tentative settlement with the Department of Justice in an antitrust lawsuit accusing the landlord of colluding to increase rents across the US, in part, through widely used industry software.

As part of the deal, Greystar is barred from generating pricing recommendations derived from algorithms using competitively sensitive data, sharing competitive information with competitors and must cooperate in the governments case against the rental market software and data company RealPage Inc.

The DOJ sued Thoma Bravo LLC-backed RealPage a year ago, accusing it of assisting in a price-fixing conspiracy via software that helps landlords maximize rental income. At the end of the Biden administration, the DOJ added South Carolina-based Greystar and other companies including Cushman & Wakefield Plc, Camden Property Trust and Blackstone Inc.s LivCor LLC. At that time, it also reached a deal with Cortland Management LLC.

Greystar firmly believes that its use of RealPages revenue management software complies with all applicable laws, the company said in a statement Friday. The company said it didnt admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement.

The lawsuit was the Justice Departments first big algorithmic collusion case as alleged schemes become more sophisticated through the use of technology.

Whether in a smoke-filled room or through an algorithm, competitors cannot share competitively sensitive information or align prices to the detriment of American consumers, DOJ antitrust chief Gail Slater said in a separate statement.

The settlement requires court approval.

RealPage and the remaining companies have a pending motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Specialty broker Alliant Insurance Services has named Steven Money assistant vice president in its employee benefits group, based in Atlanta.

Money has more than 20 years experience in the industry, with brokers and carriers, the California-based Alliant said in a news release. He specializes in small and large middlle-market client companies, including self-funded solutions, stop-loss, captives, and reference-based pricing.

In South Carolina, InterCoastal Public Adjusters announced that William Blinn has joined the team as senior adjuster in the state. Blinn has more than two decades of experience as an independent adjuster, working for insurance carriers on residential and commercial claims, the company said.

He founded his own PA firm in 2015.

InterCoastal said it works with policyholders in 10 states.

Topics Alliant
The Kerry/Dublin flight route, one of Irelands few domestic commercial services, has become more than just a convenient way to bypass hours of lengthy travel. Nowadays, it is a vital link underpinning local tourism, supporting regional jobs, and enabling rural living.

Since the flights takeover by Ryanair in 2021 following the collapse of its previous provider, Stobart Air, operated by Aer Lingus as a public service obligation, the route has gone from strength to strength, with the twice-daily service now Kerry Airports most popular service.

From tourists landing in Dublin seeking access to the southwest or Kerry natives travelling for work, the route has proven to be instrumental for individuals and businesses, as well as for the wider regional economy.

The flight is an absolute gamechanger for me, says Orla Diffily, who uses the flight almost every week. If it wasnt for this service, I would not have been able to live and work in Kerry for so long. It is crucial for me.

The Dublin native, who is originally from Portmarnock, lived in Kerry for over 30 years before recently relocating back to the capital for personal reasons.

Owner of Upfront Model Management, Orla Diffily: 'The flight is an absolute gamechanger for me.'

However, Ms Diffily, a well-known stylist who also runs Upfront Model Management, continues to rely on the service, calling it more affordable and less exhausting than driving, which takes around four hours by car.

I lived in Kerry for 33 years and it is still my favourite place in the world. Throughout that time, that flight was a necessity for me as the majority of my client base is in Dublin.

I had to move back to Dublin last November, but I am still up and down every week on the flight.

Ms Diffily says the cost-effectiveness of the Ryanair route, which costs an average of 20 one-way, allows her flexibility that cannot be replicated by other modes of public transport.

Sometimes I will book more than one flight just to give myself the option, and it still works out cheaper. If I were to get the train from Kerry to Dublin, I would then have to go to Malahide, which, if late at night, would mean getting a taxi, which could cost up to 70.

"Add that to the price of a train ticket and were looking at well over 100 already.

All in all, the Kerry-Dublin flight is essential to my career and the business we run.

While popular among many individuals, the route has also provided a lifeline for regional Kerry businesses.

Ken Tobin, chief operations officer of regional co-working hub network Entara, says the service has provided a massive boost for the local economy through the provision of remote working opportunities.

The Kerry/Dublin service is critical for business, as is the Kerry/London route for the same reason.

Because of the flight, many businesses centred around Dublin now have the opportunity to base themselves here in Kerry.

We have so many multinationals based here already, from Kerry Group, Liebherr, Fexco, Tricel and Astellas, among others. These are all major contributors to the local economy.

Companies like these are dependent on flight connectivity to operate down here. I wouldnt want to imagine what life would be like in Kerry without the route to Dublin.

Managing director of Killarney-based recruitment company Red Chair Fred McDonogh agrees, calling the service a game-changer for both him and his business.

Our business is split between Kerry and Dublin, making this service critical for us. We have staff across both areas using it at least every fortnight, Mr McDonogh tells the Irish Examiner.

Our workforce is also split, with three based in Dublin and the remaining 19 here in Killarney. But in addition to that, we also use the service to fly candidates so they can interview for jobs in person.

The managing director says face-to-face interviews are still of utmost importance for many smaller companies in Kerry, with the flight service facilitating the hiring process and enabling the company to bring new people to Kerry.

Red Chair Recruitment is also a preferred supplier for the HSE, with Mr McDonogh and his team involved in bringing doctors and other medical staff from Dublin to Kerry to interview and work in Munster. For this, he says the service remains invaluable.

Talent and influencer manager Alan Cawley also credits the flight service for enabling his career and allowing him to settle full-time in Kerry.

I worked in Dublin for years, but recently made the move to just outside Killorglin, says Mr Cawley, who is originally from Laois but now runs his talent agency, Marvel, from Kerry.

The nature of the job means I still need to go to Dublin regularly. Im still up every second week for a few days, making the service crucial for me.

Alan Cawley: 'It takes me three minutes to leave my car and get through Kerry Airport security.'

Like Ms Diffily, Mr Cawley also says the cost-effectiveness and flexibility offered by the service are unparalleled.

It takes me three minutes to leave my car and get through Kerry Airport security. Meanwhile, if I want to get the train, were left with only two direct services and whatever unexpected interruptions that usually occur along the way.

Not having the service would have made moving here so much harder. It just wouldnt have been as viable without it.

Short-haul domestic flights have long been a point of contention, with economic arguments often counteracted with sustainability concerns. Countries across Europe are seeing demand for domestic flights drop as sentiment evolves in accordance with a worsening climate.

This has also been helped by alternative transport becoming more affordable in recent years as Governments continue to slash prices in a bid to increase demand for public transport.

But for people in Kerry, many say viable alternatives are just not there yet.

Of course, there needs to be a balance between sustainability and accessibility, but right now, this flight is not just a luxury, it is essential, says Ms Diffly.

Mr Cawley agrees, adding that while the potential for other short-haul domestic flights may be outweighed by climate concerns, the Kerry/Dublin route is one that deserves to be kept.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, John Drummey, head of PR for Kerry Airport, says it is doing everything it can to enhance sustainability.

Sustainability is at the forefront of everything Kerry Airport does. We are always trying to be greener and have several measures in place to achieve that, including our vehicle fleet now being fully electric, Mr Drummey said.

Kerry has many ways to reduce its carbon footprint and it is doing that, says Mr Cawley. But the flight to Dublin has to be a non-negotiable. We would be isolated without it.

Benefit to airport

The Kerry/Dublin route has seen unprecedented demand since the pandemic, with the last two years in particular breaking previous annual records.

Strong demand helped Kerry Airport post revenue of more than 8.5m in 2024, up by 3% compared to the previous year, while its final profit of almost 1.4m represented a 14% rise on 2023.

Speaking in its annual results last year, Kerry Airport said that while it is committed to working with Ryanair to ensure their commercial venture continues successfully, it would implore the Government to ensure public support is reinstated if efforts to work with Ryanair fail to achieve expectations.

Speaking on the route in its latest annual results, Kerry Airport said: The directors must stress the importance of this Government support in attracting airlines to operate at times and frequencies that are of vital necessity to the tourism and economic industries in the local economy.
A new Beef Welfare Scheme, worth 28m, has opened for applications this week.

Minister for agriculture Martin Heydon said: This years scheme represents a substantial increase in funding compared to 2024. It offers farmers an opportunity to complete a wider range of straightforward measures, along with an increase in the upper limit on eligible animals.

The Beef Welfare Scheme (BWS) will support farmers in meal-fed suckler calves at weaning and will allow them to take other voluntary actions to maximise their scheme payments.

The meal feeding action is mandatory, but farmers have the option of other actions to be conducted under the scheme, such as vaccinating calves against clostridial diseases and/or calf pneumonia, and carrying out faecal testing or forage testing where it suits their production systems.

Like previous years, all suckler farmers who have eligible calves born on their holdings between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, are eligible to apply for this scheme.

Applications close on September 24 and must be lodged online via the agfood website. Full terms and conditions can be found on the Department of Agriculture website under the Beef Welfare Scheme 2025.

Suckler farmers can simultaneously participate in both the BWS and the five-year Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme. Farmers who take part in both will be eligible to earn up to 225 per cow/calf pair for the first 22 pairs in a herd.

Participants should retain copies of receipts for the meal and the vaccination and testing actions, if they also choose those options. They should maintain these records and submit them, on request, to the department to facilitate the processing of payments.

BWS participants who are also participating in the Parasite Control Consult under the Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health and who wish to carry out the faecal egg count action under that scheme should not select the faecal count option in the 2025 BWS.
Photo: https://t.me/Klymenko_MVS/

Within 24 days, joint tactical and special exercises of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Energy on the protection of energy infrastructure facilities will be held in 17 regions and Kyiv, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported.

"Today, together with Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk, we launched joint tactical and special exercises of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Energy on the protection of energy infrastructure facilities," the Minister of Internal Affairs wrote on the Telegram channel on Wednesday.

He noted that within 24 days, coordination of actions of all services will be trained in 17 regions and Kyiv - from rescuers and police to energy and utility workers.

"The common task is to act quickly and clearly in the face of any threat. We not only react to danger, but also work to stay ahead of it. Each unit knows its role, each region is in the focus of attention. We will work through all stages of response: from the first report of shelling to the elimination of consequences and assessment of the level of protection of facilities," the minister emphasized.

Klymenko clarified that the training is practical and as close as possible to real conditions: the departure of units to facilities, constant video communication, coordination between situational centers and headquarters on the ground, operational actions of forces and forecasting of consequences.

"Together, in constant coordination, we are making every effort to ensure that the population has electricity, gas and heat in the fall and winter. We are working as a single team to protect the energy sector and people," the Minister of Internal Affairs concluded.
The trailer for the much-anticipated movie Steve, a new drama starring Cillian Murphy, has been released.

In the new movie, the Oscar winner plays Steve  a teacher struggling with his mental health while trying to help students at a last-chance reform school..

A reimagining of Max Porters Sunday Times bestseller, Shy, and directed by Tim Mielants, Steve is in select theaters from September 19 and will stream on Netflix from October 3.

The European premiere of Murphys latest film will take place at The Arc Cinema in Cork city on September 13.

Part of the Sounds from a Safe Harbour programme, the premiere, which has now sold out, will be followed by a Q&A with Cillian Murphy, Max Porter, and Tim Mielants at the Cork Opera House.

Jay Lycurgo as Shy and Cillian Murphy as Steve. Picture: Robert Viglasky/Neflix  2025

Expressing his delight that his latest film will receive its European premiere in his home city, Murphy told the : "I'm really proud to be able to premiere the film in my hometown. Its massive for me. And a big shout out to Netflix for helping us to sort it."

Set in the mid-90s, the film follows a pivotal day in the life of headteacher Steve and his students as he fights to protect the schools integrity and impending closure while grappling with his own mental health.

Tracey Ullman as Amanda and Cillian Murphy as Steve in the film Steve. Picture: Robert Viglasky/Neflix  2025

In the trailer, Murphy is seen gently talking to his students, trying to make them understand that they're not alone, but the tension builds, as we see Steve struggling with his own demons.

Starring alongside Murphy are Tracey Ullman, Simbi Ajikawo and Emily Watson.

New photos from Netflix also show the cast in action. One image shows Murphy holding his hands over his ears as the students shout around him, while another sees him chatting with one of the lads on his bed.
Shooting stars will be visible across Ireland on Tuesday night as the annual Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak.

The Perseids, named because they seem to burst out of the constellation Perseus, are one of the highlights of the year for skygazers due to their high hourly rate and bright meteors, caused by the Earth slamming into debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle in July and August each summer.

These meteoroids, which are no bigger than grains of sand, burn up as they hit the Earth's atmosphere at speeds of around 36 miles per second, producing a dazzling display that lasts only a second or less.

Though there are about 12 meteor showers annually, the Perseids are the brightest.

Tonight, around 150 meteoroids will cross the sky each hour, though the full amount will not be visible due to the horizon blocking part of the view.

That said, an estimated 100 meteoroids may still be visible each hour in certain locations, particularly those that are flat and dark. The best time for skygazing tonight will be when the sky is darkest: after sunset but before moonrise.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner earlier this month, Niall Smith, Head of Research at MTU and Head of Blackrock Castle Observatory, said that though the Perseids appear every summer and astronomers know a great deal about them, "there remains a thrill in simply going outside and looking up expectantly until a Perseid flashes across your vision."

"We know meteors are caused by small particles, typically of the size of a grain of sand, as they burn up in the Earth's atmosphere in a second or two. We know that those which show colours do so because they cause molecules of oxygen and nitrogen in our atmosphere, primarily, to glow momentarily. Or sometimes because of the vaporisation of the material in the meteors themselves," he said.

"We know the particles from the Perseids come from the tail of a comet called 109P/Swift-Tuttle which takes 133 years to orbit the sun once  a discovery made in 1865 by the Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli. So youd be right to think we actually know quite a lot about them."

Mr Smith added: "Observing the death of a grain of sand that may have been wandering the solar system for more than 4 billion years may not advance our scientific knowledge, but it has a way of connecting us as humans to the greater cosmos with minimal preparation on our part"

"To paraphrase the great astronomer-communicator Carl Sagan, it does nothing to the romance of the Perseids to know a little bit about them."

While the celestial shower will peak tonight, anyone who misses out on seeing the Perseids need not worry  they will remain visible for the next week or so.
Qualifying as a teacher has become unaffordable, with many students forced to rely on family to subsidise their studies or be left saddled with debt, a teachers union has warned.

The Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) has accused the Department of Education of being intent on trying to ride out issues around teacher recruitment and retention issues.

Ahead of the new academic term, the union is calling for a range of measures to tackle what it describes as an ongoing crisis that will see students missing out on subject options.

Earlier this year, a TUI survey found almost 80% of teachers employed before 2015 believe they could not afford to pursue teaching today, given the scarcity of full-time jobs, the accommodation crisis, and cost-of-living pressures.

Just one out of four recent entrants reported receiving a contract of full hours when starting their teaching career, said TUI president Anthony Quinn.

This is a significant problem at second level, where those commencing are forced to survive on mere fractions of jobs and often have to be subsidised by family, if they are fortunate enough to have this support.

He added: "The cosmetic measures announced to date by the department have fallen far short of what is required, and as a result, students in many schools continue to have less access to the full range of subjects which should be available to them and are often taught a subject by a succession of teachers."

"It is abundantly clear to us that the department is trying to ride out the crisis until demographics change and student numbers at second level fall. This is denying a generation of students the full educational experience that theyre entitled to."

The TUI is calling for the duration of the current professional master of education (PME), required to become a second-level teacher, to be halved, from two to one years. The course, offered at a number of institutions around the country as well as privately, became a two-year programme in 2014.

Fees for the two-year PME tend to average 14,700. In January, the Department of Education launched a 'refund' scheme, which refunds teachers up to 2,000.

However, the TUI said halving the duration of the PME would make teaching "immediately and significantly more accessible to all in our society, particularly to those who cannot afford to pursue the profession".

"It is no longer acceptable that second-level teachers should have to complete a four-year degree followed by a two-year PME, being subsidised by family if theyre fortunate enough to have this support or else being saddled with significant debt before they even apply for an initial teaching job that is unlikely to be on a permanent or full-time basis."

Meanwhile, school secretaries and caretakers look set for indefinite strike action, from August 28, in a dispute over pay and pensions.
Prosecutors in Lebanon have formally lodged an appeal against the sentences handed down to those who were indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney, the Tanaiste has said.

The appeals include the sentences handed down for the attempted killing of Trooper Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan and Trooper Nathan Bryan.

The main defendant at the military tribunal in Beirut was last month sentenced to death, but Simon Harris wrote to the Lebanese Government following the trial to express the disappointment of the Irish Government and in particular of the Rooney family at the leniency of the sentences handed down across the board.

While capital punishment is a legal sanction in Lebanon, reports suggest there has been a moratorium on executions since 2004.

The main defendant, Mohammad Ayyad, was absent from the proceedings as he was convicted at the military court last month, it is understood.

Mr Harris met with Private Rooneys family last week and committed to "holding urgent talks with the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers in order to press for an appeal".

Those talks took place on Tuesday, according to a statement, with Mr Harris telling Private Rooneys mother, Natasha McCloskey, that a number of steps have been taken.

This include:

- The appointment of a new military chief prosecutor who now will take over the case;

- An appeal against the sentences being formally lodged with the military Cassation Court;

- The Lebanese authorities committing to taking urgent steps to ensure the individual convicted of the murder of Private Rooney is taken into custody.

Mr Harris said: I very much welcome the confirmation today from the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers that an appeal has been formally lodged against the sentences handed down in the case of the death of Private Sean Rooney and the injuries of his colleagues.

I have this afternoon spoken with Seans mother, Natasha, who I was pleased also to meet last week.

In my calls with my Lebanese counterparts, I made it clear that the sentences handed down in this case are simply not acceptable and are very disappointing.

They have caused great upset and insult to the Rooney family and everything must be done to ensure justice is served for Sean and his colleagues who were injured.

Pte Rooney, who was 24 and from Newtowncunningham, Co Donegal, was killed while on UN duty when the armoured vehicle he was driving from south Lebanon to Beirut came under fire in December 2022. Several others were injured in the attack.
An airport security official, who was demoted for kissing a female colleague at work, should be reinstated to his former position, the Workplace Relations Commission has recommended.

The worker had sought being returned to his former role as an airport search unit supervisor, as well as restitution for the financial loss and emotional distress he suffered.

The WRC heard the man was suspended in September 2023 after being informed of allegations made against him by colleagues.

He was subsequently demoted in November 2023, and issued with a final written warning to stay on his file for 18 months following an investigation, disciplinary and appeal process for two incidents which were classified by his employer as gross misconduct.

The WRC heard the incidents occurred on September 3 and 4, 2023, and involved the worker kissing a female colleague during active operational duties  once when she was operating an X-ray machine and the other in a premium services area.

The security official, who began work at the airport in June 2018, was involved in the screening of passengers and baggage using X-ray technology and subsequently in supervising such work after his promotion in July 2021.

The airport authority ruled the workers actions had breached its dignity and respect at work policy, its code of conduct and protocols governing safety-critical operations.

The security official, who was on an annual salary of 46,154, claimed the sanctions imposed on him were excessively harsh and his previously good employment record had not been given due consideration.

The airport authority said the sanctions reflected the safety-critical nature of the breaches, the workers leadership responsibilities, and the need to preserve the integrity of security operations.

It also claimed the disciplinary process was fair, transparent and consistent with internal policy, while the sanctions were proportionate.

The employer said dismissal had been an option but it opted for a combination of lesser sanctions.

It also confirmed the other worker involved in the incident had been subject to a separate disciplinary process and had received a final written warning.

None of the parties in the case was identified as the complaint was made under the Industrial Relations Act.

The complainant made admissions about both incidents and acknowledged his behaviour did not meet professional standards.

He also expressed remorse and accepted his actions represented a lapse of judgement.

The man declined several opportunities to review CCTV footage of the incidents.

WRC adjudication official Breiffni ONeill noted the airport authority had placed particular emphasis on the safety implications of the workers conduct.

However, Mr ONeill said it begged the question why he was not transferred to a less safety-sensitive role given such serious safety concerns.

He said the decision by the airport authority not to explore transferring the security official to another department as an alternative to demotion called into question the true extent of its safety concerns.

If the supervisor role was indeed so critical from a safety perspective, one would reasonably expect that the worker would have been reassigned to a role with materially lower safety responsibilities rather than simply demoted to another safety-critical post, said Mr ONeill.

He claimed such inconsistency undermined the credibility of the rationale for demoting him and suggested there was a lack of proportionality in the disciplinary action taken.

Mr ONeill said he was also satisfied the final written warning, which had now expired, served a corrective purpose and was, in itself, a proportionate sanction.

He said the additional sanction of demotion was excessive given the workers previously unblemished record and the failure to consider a less punitive and reasonable alternative.

Mr ONeill recommended the security official be reinstated to his former role with full restoration of duties and remuneration within seven days.

However, the WRC made no recommendation in relation to any claim for financial loss.

Findings made under the Industrial Relations Act are in the form of recommendations and are not binding on the parties.
The Defence Forces spent close to 2m over the past year on social media and advertising to boost interest in a military career.

The Defence Forces said it spent 1.91m reaching audiences through Facebook, TikTok, outdoor billboards, and a streaming service popular with video gamers.

A further 71,000 went towards content creation for various campaigns as the military worked to increase recruitment.

The 1.987m outlay produced results, with nearly 13,000 people applying to join the enlisted ranks since July last year.

The gender breakdown for those applications was 11,191 men and 1,751 women, a ratio of about six men to each woman.

There were a further 2,203 applications for the officer ranks, the Defence Forces said in response to an FOI request.

These came from 1,895 men and 308 women, a similar gender split of around six to one.

The Defence Forces said their biggest marketing spend was on digital campaigns, with nearly 720,000 paid for online channels, including YouTube.

A further 183,000 went to Facebook, while 360,691 was spent on billboards and other outdoor advertising.

Around 75,000 went to Snapchat, 79,057 to TikTok, and just 50,000 to print media as the Defence Forces targeted younger age groups.

They also spent 23,018 on Twitch, a live-streaming service used mainly by video gamers and esports viewers.

Just over 49,000 was spent on cinema ads, 197,000 on recruitment material for radio, and 179,000 for TV marketing.

The Defence Forces have faced ongoing recruitment challenges, and official figures from the end of April show the strength of the permanent forces was just 7,500.

That compares with a force of around 9,500 in 2010, with a steady falloff during the past fifteen years, although numbers now appear to have stabilised.

A spokesman said: Oglaigh na hEireann is committed to recruiting the best candidates to serve the state. Our advertising and outreach efforts are a critical part of attracting high-calibre individuals with the values, skills, and commitment required for military service.

This investment ensures we maintain a strong, capable, professional force ready to meet the needs of the nation and defend our state.
An Irish woman living in Madrid has said the heat this summer has been "unlike anything I've ever experienced", describing how her son ended up in hospital with heatstroke.

As wildfires continue to burn across mainland Europe, with temperatures reaching up to 44C in some areas, Laura O'Reilly has told the Irish Examiner of her experience in the Spanish capital. The Dublin woman said some of the fires have come "surprisingly close" to populated areas - including parts of Madrid's outskirts.

"In July, there was a fire near Toledo about an hour's drive away. I was walking in the centre of Madrid, near El Prado, and there was a huge plume of smoke plus ashes falling from the sky. Locally, people are very aware and cautious.

"Firefighters are working around the clock, and there's a real sense of urgency and solidarity. It's frightening but also impressive to see how communities come together in these emergencies," she said.

Recently, Ms O'Reilly's son had to be brought to the emergency department after suffering from a heatstroke. "Heatstroke is extremely dangerous. My son suffered one while playing basketball," she said.

"Unfortunately, he drank a lot of water to cool down, not a good idea. He started to vomit so much that he tore some soft tissue and then started to bleed. A tube was put down his throat as his stomach was filling up with blood," she recalled.

Coming from Ireland, she said the whole experience has been eye-opening.

"Back home, climate change often feels like a distant issue, something we talk about for the future. But here in Madrid, with record-breaking temperatures and visible wildfires, it feels immediate and personal.

It's made me realise how climate change is affecting different parts of the world in very different ways, and how urgent the need for action really is.

While the situation is worrying, Ms O'Reilly said it was been inspiring to see how resilient people can be.

"From firefighters to neighbours checking in on each other, it shows that even in difficult times, community and care can make a real difference. I hope this summer will be a wake-up call for all of us about the realities of climate change."

To help with the heat, she shared a few tips.

"I soak my T-shirt and hair before going outside. I also half freeze a bottle of water to place on the back of my neck to help me cool down, and to drink. Plus, I bring a spray bottle of water and I walk in the shade whenever possible," she said.

"Even walking short distances can feel exhausting, and there's a real concern for people vulnerable to heatstroke. Sleeping is very difficult. The intense heat also makes the air feel heavy and dry, which only adds to the risk of wildfires."
Supports for life sciences companies hit by US tariffs will be a "priority" in the Budget, the finance minister has said.

While the final shape of a trading agreement between the US and EU remains to be seen, concern has been raised about the impact on the life sciences and medical device industries in even the case of a base rate 15% tariff.

Speaking in Clonmel on Wednesday, Paschal Donohoe said that he would be examining the impact that the agreement between the EU and Ireland will have on the life science sector in Europe, and "what further measures we can take at national level to support a really important pillar of the economy of Ireland".

He said the 15% tariffs that are in place "at least bring certainty regarding where we are, but will still bring cost".

"And what we need to do, and are doing, is working with large employers in life science and elsewhere to look now at how we can support them and the jobs and investment that they have here in Ireland," said the minister.

"We have expertise that we've built up over many, many decades of supporting the life science sector. I will continue to use that expertise to do all we can to protect jobs like we have here in Tipperary."

He said those kinds of investments are replicated all over the length and breadth of Ireland "and it's a really important priority for me as we form the budget".

Mr Donohoe once again reiterated that there will be no cost-of-living package in October's Budget, but said the Government is "very conscious that the cost of living continues to be a challenge for so many".

Ticket prices

Asked if he would be attending this weekend's Oasis concerts in Dublin, the minister said he is "more of a Blur fan", but indicated that he does not want to see the surge in pricing of Oasis tickets to become the norm.

"This is something that the Competition and Consumer Protection Authority has already indicated that it wants to review because these tickets are really expensive.

"They're really expensive because there is a demand for them. Oasis fans are willing to pay a lot of money to go and see them play.

"But I wouldn't like this to be the future of live performances. Live performances are really, really important for fans. Lots of other gigs at the moment continue to be really affordable, and I'd like to see that as being the future."
Two men are to appear in court charged with preparing terrorist acts and perverting the course of justice in connection with the attempted murder of a senior police officer.

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell was seriously injured after being shot several times at a leisure centre in Omagh in February 2023.
Limerick council has urged cafes and retailers to extend their opening hours to increase footfall in the city and to meet the massive demand for non-alcohol related events.

The night-time economy advisor for Limerick City and County Council, Craig Power, has been working on the Twilight Thursday initiative to revitalise the city.

Mr Power said there has been increased demand for alcohol free activities.

Its something we're trying to cater for. Im proud to say weve had lots of events that are alcohol free, so we do think there is something for everyone.

"With the national night-time economy initiative, all of us advisors across the country are working on a late cafe initiative.

We'd love to see businesses come forward to us with ideas for unique events, or even just extending their opening hours because we've justified that there's definitely increased footfall in the city centre.

If people have been in the city for Twilight Thursdays, they can visibly see it's a hell of a lot busier than usual. We're trying to get people to come back in and fall in love with the city again.

The initiative is also about getting people to get out and visit the city.

In a time where you have entertainment on your fingertips with Netflix, you have your food being delivered to your house, this is a way to get people out of the house and to reconnect.

I think loneliness is a big thing. Even last week, I heard about an elderly gentleman talking about how he used to meet his friends on a monthly basis. And now he's meeting them for the first time in 14 months because all they do is just chat on WhatsApp, he said.

He noted there can be no guarantee that by extending opening hours, X amount of business will come in, but that they encourage people to think outside the box.
Medical Procurement of Ukraine purchases 30 armored evacuation vehicles for military medics with funds from UNITED24

SOE Medical Procurement of Ukraine purchased 30 armored evacuation vehicles of Canadian production for military medics with funds from the fundraising platform UNITED24.

As reported by the company, the total cost of the contract is UAH 347.8 million, which is 5% less than the expected price.

The first vehicles will arrive in April 2026, the rest in June.

The vehicles are equipped with a door seam overlap system for additional bullet protection and have second-level armor according to NATO standards. They can withstand the explosion of an anti-tank mine weighing up to 6 kg, damage from fragments from a 155-mm projectile from a distance of 80 meters and shots from armor-piercing incendiary bullets from 30 meters.

The vehicle is equipped with a night vision camera, a 360 inspection camera with a monitor, as well as an audio communication system between the cabin and the medical department. In case of damage, run-flat tires are installed, which allow you to continue driving even after a puncture or complete loss of pressure.

Earlier in 2023, the Ministry of Defense purchased 13 such vehicles from Canada through UNITED24.
Anyone who has ever exited Camden tube station and brushed past the heartbreaking sight of men with Irish accents on the ground, drinking, should take the lesson that life can sometimes go wrong for migrants who leave their country for a new life. So, when we get hot under the collar about attacks on migrants, it cant just be about working migrants.

BBC correspondent Fergal Keane wrote at the weekend: The policing of identity  who you are allowed to be  is disturbingly present in many societies, and many guises.

It feels prescient, with an increase in racially motivated attacks against migrants.

This raises questions about what it means to be Irish and who has the right to live and work (or even just be) here. This is something we need to discuss transparently. As the economist David McWilliams said recently, in the context of our housing shortage, we have a habit of shirking hard conversations.

Journalist Fergal Keane wrote about Irish identity in response to the criticism musician Ed Sheeran recently received over identifying as culturally Irish. Picture: Naoise Culhane

Born in London, Fergal Keane was raised in Ireland, later spending his professional life in England, where his two children were born. He watches them grapple with overlapping identities.

Keane wrote about Irish identity in response to the criticism musician Ed Sheeran recently received both in Ireland and the UK when he announced he felt culturally Irish. With an Irish father, two Irish paternal grandparents, an Irish passport, and a love of Ireland, he was slagged off because he was born and raised in England.

If a dog is born in a stable, does that make it a horse? I was born in Dublin but am from Cork. When I did some media interviews, I was challenged several times about not truly being from Cork.

One woman who heard a radio interview I did with Miriam OCallaghan claimed I was from a different county because I had attended school there for just under five years. I assured her I had zero connection to that place, but nothing would do her, except that I was from there. Apart from the inaccuracy of her claim, why was she invested in the first place?

Theres a brilliant quote from the poet Patrick Kavanagh (never a man to duck outspoken pronouncements on Irish society): Parochialism and provincialism are [direct] opposites. The provincial has no mind of his own; he does not trust what his eyes see until he has heard what the metropolis  towards which his eyes are turned  has to say on any subject. This runs through all activities. The parochial mentality, on the other hand, is never in any doubt about the social and artistic validity of his parish.

I concluded I was arguing with a provincial. Although I spent decades in Dublin for personal and professional reasons, and was born there, it was never my parish and never could be.

Kavanagh, however, added an essential proviso to his quote. Advising people not to be ashamed of having the courage of their remote parish, is not free from many dangers. There is always that element of bravado that takes pleasure in the notion that the potato-patch is the ultimate. To be parochial, a man needs the right kind of sensitive courage and the right kind of sensitive humility.

We are seeing the opposite of that sensitive humility in the attacks on people of Indian descent and other migrants. We are witnessing blatant racism and the idea that particular potato patches are the preserve solely of those who were born there.

The Indian Embassy in Dublin has issued a warning. All Indian citizens in Ireland are advised to take reasonable precautions for their personal security and avoid deserted areas, especially in odd hours.

This warning would not have helped six-year-old Nia Naveen, who was out playing on a Waterford housing estate when a group of boys and girls allegedly attacked her, punched her in the face, and said: "Go back to India, which her parents said she didnt understand.

Her mother, Anupa Achuthan, a HSE nurse working here for eight years, said she was happy to be an Irish citizen, but no longer feels like she belongs here.

She points out they are professionals who came to fill a labour gap. Thanks to the recession of the 80s, I personally understand the story of people who migrate to other countries where their skills are needed, but natives are not keen on them.

Simon Harris has remarked the Irish health service would collapse without the key contribution of members of the Indian community in Ireland. About 80,000 Indian people are living here.

Badly needed policing (boots on the ground) would practically address blatant demonstrations of racism, but it would not address the underlying factors that fuel it.

Conor McGregor is not alone in his ugly Ireland for the Irish schtick. Picture: Leah Farrell/ RollingNews.ie

Racist ideas are embedded in a culture where individuals shape culture and culture shapes individuals in a cyclical process. These ideas do not spring from the solo actions of a handful of disgruntled individuals; instead, they proliferate in the cultural ether.

We see it with people like Conor McGregor, but hes not alone in his ugly Ireland for the Irish schtick. Hatred is always based on fear. Fear of losing something. Real or perceived competition for resources or threats to self-image.

When self-image is poor, racism is a psychological defence mechanism of the Im better than you variety. People attach themselves to the soothing balm of a group that makes them feel like they belong somewhere, anywhere.

I suspect hate-filled people often have a reason for their core anger, although obviously this is never an apologia for racism, but it must be addressed. They instinctively recognise their flaws and shortcomings and duck this by projecting their flaws onto others.

Anupa Achuthan reportedly does not want these errant teenagers to be punished. She wants them to receive counselling because she believes the estate belongs to them as well, which seems magnanimous and wise. Despite what must be her acute distress, Ms Achuthan understands the fundamental importance of building a sense of solidarity and of not excluding people.

Both her daughter Nia and her 10-month-old brother were born here, meaning that, should their parents choose to remain, as children, they will be inevitably forced to navigate those overlapping Irish and Indian identities, just as Fergal Keane says his children must do in England or Ed Sheeran has done.

The Indian community, including Ms Achuthan, is asking for practical solutions, including a taskforce on how we translate what Mr Harris calls a country of "cead mile failte" into safe streets for people who come to live here.

But we are going to see more racism unless we address the fundamental question of who has a right to be here and what it means to be culturally Irish, which, as Keane says, is complicated. Its dynamic and evolving now more than ever, with a cross-fertilisation of cultures.

I loved what Fergal Keane said: So, if somebody asks me to narrow my identity to a single label, I refuse, because it is mine, not to be explained or justified. And if it shifts tomorrow, that is my business. How true.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian president Vladimir Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine, the countries state media said.

The call came ahead of Mr Putins planned meeting with US president Donald Trump in Alaska.

During the call on Tuesday, Mr Putin praised the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by North Korean troops as they fought with Russian forces to repel a Ukrainian incursion into Russias Kursk border region, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Mr Putin also shared with Mr Kim information about his upcoming talks with Mr Trump scheduled to take place on Friday, according to Russias TASS news agency, citing the Kremlin.

Russian president Vladimir Putin, left, and North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic partnership agreement last year (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Kim told Mr Putin that Pyongyang would fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too, as they discussed advancing ties in all fields under a strategic partnership agreement they signed during a summit last year, KCNA said.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Mr Kim has made Moscow the priority of his foreign policy as he aims to break out of diplomatic isolation and expand relations with countries confronting Washington.

His government has dismissed Washington and Seouls stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the Norths nuclear programme, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit with Mr Trump during his first term.

According to South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn and also supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Mr Putins war efforts against Ukraine.

Mr Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Russias Kursk region, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.
Bangladeshi anti-corruption officials have given evidence in court against former British anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq, accusing her of using a family connection to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina to obtain state-owned land in the South Asian country.

Ms Siddiq, who is Ms Hasinas niece, resigned from her post in Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmers Government in January following reports that she lived in London properties linked to her aunt and was named in an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh.

The Labour MP represents the north London district of Hampstead and Highgate and served as economic secretary to the Treasury  the minister responsible for tackling financial corruption.

The trial at the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 formally began on Wednesday (Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP)

She is being tried together with her mother, Sheikh Rehana, brother Radwan Mujib and sister Azmina.

Ms Siddiq has been charged with facilitating their receipt of state land in a township project near the capital Dhaka.

They are out of the country and being tried in absentia.

Ms Siddiqs lawyers have called the charges baseless and politically motivated.

Muhammad Tariqul Islam, a public prosecutor, disputed a claim by Ms Siddiq that she is not Bangladeshi, saying the anti-corruption watchdog through investigations found that she is a citizen.

The prosecutor said if Ms Siddiq is convicted she could be sentenced to three to 10 years in prison.

Public prosecutor Muhammad Tariqul Islam, wearing a tie, spoke to reporters after the hearing (Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP)

Ms Siddiq in an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian recently referred to Bangladesh as a foreign country and called the charges against her completely absurd.

She asserted to The Guardian she was collateral damage in the longstanding feud between her aunt and Bangladeshs interim leader Muhammad Yunus.

Ms Hasina had a frosty relation with Mr Yunus, and during her rule Mr Yunus faced a number of cases including for graft allegations.

Courts overturned those charges before he took over as interim leader days after Ms Hasinas ousting last year in a student-led uprising.

Separately, the anti-corruption investigation has alleged that Ms Siddiqs family was involved in brokering a 2013 deal with Russia for a nuclear power plant in Bangladesh in which large sums of money were said to have been embezzled.
Wildfires intensified across southern Europe on Wednesday after a overnight battle to protect the perimeter of Greeces third-largest city, with at least three more deaths reported in Spain, Turkey and Albania.

Firefighters outside the Greek port city of Patras struggled to protect homes and agricultural facilities as flames tore through olive groves.

As water-dropping planes and helicopters swooped overhead, residents joined the effort, beating back flames with cut branches or dousing them with buckets of water.

Wildfires intensified across southern Europe on Wednesday (Thanassis Stavrakis/AP)

Firefighting resources were stretched thin in many affected countries as they battled multiple outbreaks following weeks of heat waves and temperature spikes across Mediterranean Europe.

Aircraft rotated between blazes on the western Greek mainland, the Patras area and the island of Zakynthos.

Athens also sent assistance to neighbouring Albania, joining an international effort to combat dozens of wildfires.

An 80-year-old man died in one blaze south of the capital, Tirana, officials said on Wednesday.

Firefighters gather to tackle a wildfire on the outskirts of Patras in western Greece (Thanassis Stavrakis/AP)

Residents of four villages were evacuated in central Albania near a former army ammunition depot.

In the southern Korca district, near the Greek border, explosions were reported from buried Second World War-era artillery shells.

Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez expressed condolences after the death of a firefighting volunteer in the hard-hit Castile and Leon region north of Madrid, where thousands have been displaced by evacuations.

The government raised its national emergency response level, preparing additional support for regional authorities overseeing multiple evacuations and major road closures.

A man douses flames with a bucket of water in Vounteni, outside Patras (Thanassis Stavrakis/AP)

A forestry worker was also killed on Wednesday while responding to a wildfire in southern Turkey, officials said.

The forestry ministry said the worker died in an accident involving a fire truck that left four others injured.

Turkey has been battling severe wildfires since late June.

A total of 18 people have been killed, including 10 rescue volunteers and forestry workers who died in July.

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Southern Europe is battling deadly wildfires during one of its hottest summers in years. A fire in southern France has destroyed an area larger than Paris, killing one person.

In Spain, over 39,000 hectares have burned since January, forcing mass evacuations.
Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid on Wednesday, health officials and witnesses said, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will allow Palestinians to leave during an upcoming military offensive in Gaza.

Mr Netanyahu wants to realise US President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of more than two million people through what the prime minister refers to as voluntary migration  and what critics have warned could be ethnic cleansing.

Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the Strip if they want, Mr Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Tuesday with i24, an Israeli TV station, to discuss the planned offensive in some of the territorys most populated areas including Gaza City.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a press conference (Abir Sultan/Pool Photo via AP)

We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave.

Witnesses and staff at Nasser and Awda hospitals, which received the bodies, said people were killed on their way to aid distribution sites and while awaiting convoys entering the Gaza Strip.

Israel did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month.

Hamas and Egyptian officials were set to meet on Wednesday to discuss efforts to stop the war, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou.

Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to talks in Cairo, the prime ministers office said.

Israel has said it will widen its military offensive against Hamas to the areas of Gaza that it does not yet control, where most of the territorys residents have sought refuge.

Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire.

Israeli soldiers use binoculars to look at damaged buildings in the Gaza Strip, from southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the October 7 2023 attack that sparked the war.

Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.

Mr Netanyahu was asked by i24 News if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal and he responded that he wanted all of the hostages back, alive and dead.

Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

Hamas has long called for a comprehensive deal but says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The militant group has refused to lay down its arms as Israel has demanded.

Israel and South Sudan are in talks about relocating Palestinians to the war-torn East African nation, The Associated Press (AP) reported on Tuesday.

The office of Israels deputy foreign minister Sharren Haskel said on Wednesday that she was arriving in South Sudan for a series of meetings in the first visit by a senior government official to the country, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

Damaged humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza are scattered on the ground next to the border with the Gaza Strip (Ariel Schalit/AP)

In a statement on Wednesday, South Sudans Ministry of Foreign Affairs called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless.

The AP previously reported that US and Israel have reached out to officials of three East African governments to discuss using their territories as potential destinations for moving Palestinians uprooted from Gaza.

Among those killed while seeking aid on Wednesday were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area approximately 3km away from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), according to staff at Nasser hospital.

Hashim Shamalah, who was trying to reach the sites, said Israeli troops fired towards them as people tried to get through.

Many were shot and fell while fleeing, he said.

Five other Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire while trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses.

The US and Israel support the GHF, an American contractor, as an alternative to the United Nations, which they say allows Hamas to siphon off aid.

The UN, which has delivered aid throughout Gaza for decades when conditions allow, denies the allegations.

Trucks carrying humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza move along the border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites on Wednesday.

There are aid convoys from other groups that travel within 100 metres (328ft) of GHF sites and draw large crowds attempting to loot them.

An overwhelming majority of violent incidents over the past few weeks have been related to those other aid convoys, the organisation said, noting it has provided more than one million meals to aid seekers.

At least six other people were killed by Israeli fire waiting for aid trucks close to the Morag corridor, which separates parts of southern Gaza, Nasser hospital said.

The UN and food security experts have warned starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday reported the warning from the World Food Programme and said the Gaza Health Ministry told UN staff in Gaza that five people died over the previous 24 hours from malnutrition and starvation.

Gazas Health Ministry says 106 children have died of malnutrition-related causes during the war and 129 adults have died since late June when the ministry started to count deaths among this age group.

The UN and its humanitarian partners are doing everything possible to bring aid into Gaza, Mr Dujarric said, but still face significant delays and impediments from Israeli authorities who prevent the delivery of food and other essentials at the scale needed.

A Palestinian boy after collecting water from a distribution point in Gaza City (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in the 2023 attack.

Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals.

Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory towards famine.

The offensive has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals.

The UN and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties.

Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.
Ukraine and its European allies on Wednesday signalled hope that US president Donald Trump would push for a ceasefire at talks with Russia's Vladimir Putin without selling out Ukraine's interests or proposing to carve up its territory.

European leaders and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Trump in a last-ditch videoconference to lay out red lines ahead of a meeting between Trump and the Russian president in Alaska late on Friday.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump agreed that Ukraine must be involved in any discussions about ceding land while Zelenskyy said Trump had supported the idea of security guarantees in a post-war settlement.

German chancellor Friedrich Merz said Trump - and Europe - were willing to crank up the pressure on Russia if Friday's talks proved fruitless.

TRUMP GIVES UKRAINE MEETING 10 OUT OF 10

The US president said he rated the meeting "a 10", and his apparent willingness to take his allies' concerns on board, if confirmed, could bring a measure of relief after fears that he and Putin could reach a deal over Europe's head at Ukraine's expense.

However, Russia is likely to resist Europe's demands strongly.

"President Trump was very clear that the United States wanted to achieve a ceasefire at this meeting in Alaska," Macron said.

"The second point on which things were very clear, as expressed by President Trump, is that territories belonging to Ukraine cannot be negotiated and will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president."

Merz, who hosted the virtual meeting, said the principle that borders cannot be changed by force must continue to apply.

"If there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and we Europeans should ... increase the pressure," he said.

"President Trump knows this position, he shares it very extensively and therefore I can say: We have had a really exceptionally constructive and good conversation with each other."

Trump and Putin are due to discuss how to end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict, the biggest in Europe since World War Two. Trump has previously said both sides will have to swap land to end fighting that has cost tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions.

RUSSIA MAKES SHARP ADVANCE INTO UKRAINE

On a day of intense diplomacy, Zelenskyy flew into Berlin for German-hosted virtual meetings with European leaders and then with Trump.

He and the Europeans worry that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine, rewarding it for almost 11 years of efforts to seize Ukrainian land, the last three in all-out war, and embolden Putin to expand further west in the future.

Russian forces have made a sharp thrust into eastern Ukraine in recent days in what may be an attempt to increase the pressure on Kyiv to give up land.

Zelenskyy said there should be a three-way meeting between himself, Putin and Trump.

"I told the US president and all our European colleagues that Putin is bluffing (about his stated wish to end the war). He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine .."

A source familiar with the matter said the call with Trump discussed possible cities that could host a three-way meeting, depending on the outcome of the talks in Alaska.

Since announcing the Alaska summit, Trump has played down expectations, saying it would be a "feel-out" meeting.

EUROPE AND KYIV FEAR UNFAVOURABLE ALASKA DEAL

Wary of angering Trump, European leaders have repeatedly said they welcome his efforts while stressing that there should be no deal about Ukraine without Ukraine's participation.

Trump's agreement last week to the summit was an abrupt shift after weeks of voicing frustration with Putin for resisting the US peace initiative. Trump said his envoy had made "great progress" at talks in Moscow.

A Gallup poll released last week found that 69% of Ukrainians favour a negotiated end to the war as soon as possible. But polls also indicate Ukrainians do not want peace at any cost if that means crushing concessions.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexei Fadeev earlier said Moscow's stance had not changed since it was set out by Putin in June 2024.

As preconditions for a ceasefire and the start of talks, the Kremlin leader had demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from four regions that Russia has claimed as its own but does not fully control, and formally renounce its plans to join NATO.

Kyiv swiftly rejected the conditions as tantamount to surrender.

- Reuters
Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that the ceasefire in Ukraine will be the main subject of conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin during their meeting in Alaska on Friday, and announced negotiations with Trump after this meeting.

"We talked about the meeting in Alaska, we hope that the main subject at the meeting will be a ceasefire, an immediate ceasefire. The President of the United States of America has repeatedly spoken about this. He suggested to me that after the meeting in Alaska, we will have contact with him and we will discuss all the results, if there are any, and we will determine our next mutual steps," Zelenskyy said at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz believes that US President Donald Trump should discuss the fundamental issue of Ukrainian and European security interests during his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, and he already conveyed this position to the American leader during a conversation on Wednesday.

"In Alaska, the conversation must be about fundamental Ukrainian and European security interests. This was the message that we communicated today with the American president, and we were unanimous in our assessment of the situation and also what goal can be achieved," Merz said at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on Wednesday.
French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that the European Union is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia.

"We previously adopted a new package of sanctions against Russia. We are preparing another one. And I think its fate will depend on the negotiations in the coming days and weeks. But nothing can be ruled out," Macron told reporters.

That day, Macron and a number of European leaders held talks in a video conference format with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the agreement on five principles for achieving peace during a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders on Wednesday.

"Today we discussed our common positions with the President of the United States of America. There was a coordination conversation... We agreed on common principles  the five principles that Friedrich [German Chancellor Friedrich Merz] spoke about... This is the format of the negotiations  everything that concerns Ukraine should be discussed exclusively with Ukraine," Zelenskyy said at a joint press conference with Merz in Berlin on Wednesday.

The German Chancellor, in turn, said that during the conversation with Trump, "we made it clear that Ukraine should be at the negotiating table if there is a next meeting after this one."

"We want the right order: this means a ceasefire first, and it should be at the very beginning. Important elements could be a framework agreement, which will come later. Thirdly, Ukraine is ready to discuss territorial issues, but we are moving away from the contact line  it is the starting position and the legal recognition of the occupied territories is not under discussion," he said.

According to Merz, Trump shares these positions "to a large extent, and therefore we had a very constructive conversation."
Human Rights Watch  (Beirut)  Saudi authorities have been carrying out an unprecedented surge in executions in 2025 without apparent due process, Human Rights Watch and the Middle East Democracy Center said today. The June 14 execution of Turki al-Jasser, a journalist known for exposing corruption within the Saudi royal family, raises concerns that the Saudi government is using the death penalty to crush peaceful dissent.

Saudi authorities had executed at least 241 people in 2025 as of August 5, with 22 executions in the previous week alone, according to the international human rights organization Reprieve. Reprieve reported that the number of executions in 2025 would exceed all prior records if executions continue at the same rate.

Saudi authorities have weaponized the countrys justice system to carry out a terrifying number of executions in 2025, said Joey Shea, researcher for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates at Human Rights Watch. The surge in executions is just the latest evidence of the brutally autocratic rule of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Rampant due process violations and systemic abuses against defendants in Saudi Arabias courts and criminal justice system make it highly unlikely that any of those executed in 2025 received a fair trial. They include 162 people executed for nonlethal drug-related offenses, and more than half of those executed have been foreign nationals, according to Reprieve. Al-Jasser was the first journalist Saudi authorities had executed since the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018. Saudi law requires the king or crown prince to approve all executions.

Al-Jasser, in his late 40s, was a prominent Saudi writer, journalist, and blogger. He wrote for Al-Taqreer, an independent newspaper that championed democracy and human rights, which Saudi authorities shuttered in September 2015. Al-Jasser operated the popular anonymous X account Kashkool, which regularly exposed corruption and human rights abuse linked to the Saudi royal family. The account was closed soon after al-Jassers 2018 arrest.

On June 14, the Interior Ministry issued a statement announcing al-Jassers execution, accusing him of various terrorist crimes, including destabilizing the security of society and the stability of the state. The authorities did not detail nor provide evidence for these alleged crimes.

Al-Jassers arrest, detention, trial, and execution were shrouded in secrecy. His family visited him shortly before his execution but received no information or indication that he had been sentenced to death or that his execution was imminent, the Middle East Democracy Center reported. Al-Jassers family has not received his body.

In March 2018, Saudi authorities raided al-Jassers home, seized his electronic devices, and arrested him during a widespread crackdown on dissent. The authorities held al-Jasser in the countrys notorious al-Hair prison, where he was allegedly tortured. No information is available about al-Jassers trial: no family members or lawyers were able to attend, nor did anyone receive any court documents related to his case. It is unclear whether al-Jasser himself received any court documents related to his own case.

Saudi activists believe that al-Jassers execution was deliberately carried out the day after Israel attacked key Iranian military and nuclear sites, when regional and international media would not be focused on events in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Jassers execution is one of at least two recent executions in which activists suspect the death penalty was used to crush dissent.

On February 27, 2024, Saudi authorities executed Abdullah al-Shamri, a Saudi political analyst specializing in Turkiye. In a statement announcing the execution, the Interior Ministry accused al-Shamri of various terrorist crimes including threatening the stability and endangering the security of Saudi Arabia. Al-Shamri met regularly with journalists from prominent news outlets and had appeared as a political commentator on television.

In July 2023, the Specialized Criminal Court, Saudi Arabias counterterrorism tribunal, convicted Muhammad al-Ghamdi, a retired Saudi teacher, of several criminal offenses related solely to his peaceful expression online and sentenced him to death, using his tweets, retweets, and YouTube activity as the evidence against him. His sentence was later commuted to 30 years in prison.

Saudi prosecutors are also seeking the death penalty against the prominent Islamic scholar Salman al-Odah on various vague charges related to his peaceful political statements, associations, and positions, as well as religious reformist thinker Hassan Farhan al-Maliki on vague charges relating to his peaceful religious ideas.

These cases highlight that Saudi authorities are increasingly weaponizing the use of the death penalty to repress freedom of expression in the country, Human Rights Watch and the Middle East Democracy Center said.

Human Rights Watch and the Middle East Democracy Center have repeatedly criticized rampant abuses in Saudi Arabias criminal justice system, including long periods of detention without charge or trial, denial of legal assistance, and the courts reliance on torture-tainted confessions as the sole basis for conviction. The violations of defendants rights are so fundamental and systemic that it is hard to reconcile Saudi Arabias criminal justice system with a system based on the basic principles of the rule of law and international human rights standards, the groups said.

Saudi authorities executed 81 men on March 12, 2022, the countrys largest mass execution in years, despite the leaderships promises to curtail the use of the death penalty. Saudi activists told Human Rights Watch that 41 of the men belonged to the countrys Shia Muslim minority, who have long experienced systemic discrimination by the government. Saudi Arabia executed 47 men for terrorism offenses in January 2016. In April 2019, it executed 37 men, at least 33 of whom were Shia and had been convicted following unfair trials for various alleged crimes, including protest-related offenses, espionage, and terrorism.



Photo of Riyadh by ANAS MAQSOOD on Unsplash

International human rights standards, including the Arab Charter on Human Rights, ratified by Saudi Arabia, obligate countries that use the death penalty to only do so for the most serious crimes and in exceptional circumstances. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights released a statement in November 2022 on the alarming rate of executions in Saudi Arabia after it ended a 21-month unofficial moratorium on the use of the death penalty for drug-related offenses.

Behind closed doors, Saudi Arabia is executing peaceful activists and journalists following politicized trials, said Abdullah Alaoudh, senior director of countering authoritarianism at the Middle East Democracy Center. These state-sanctioned killings are an assault on basic human rights and dignity that the world cannot afford to ignore.

Human Rights Watch
( Tomdispatch.com )  On August 6, 2025, the world marked the 80th anniversary of the American destruction of Hiroshima. As in decades past, Hiroshima Day served to honor the first victims of atomic warfare and to reaffirm the enduring promise that their suffering would not be in vain, that they and the residents of Nagasaki, devastated three days later in 1945, would be the last places to endure such a fate.

Within that commemorative framework, Hiroshima has been effectively rendered an abstraction and reduced to a cautionary tale. With the involuntary sacrifice of that city and its inhabitants, humanity was offered a profound lesson. In the ruins of Hiroshima, the world confronted a vision of nothing less than its own potential end. And awareness of that apocalyptic possibility emerged almost immediately. The very next day, in fact, the American newspaper PM, based in New York, ran an article speculating on the catastrophic consequences of an atomic bomb detonating in the heart of that very city.

For the first time, thanks to Hiroshima, human beings became an endangered species. People everywhere were presented with an existential choice between the quick and the dead, between one world and none. Humanity could recover its moral bearings and pursue the abolition of nuclear weapons and the renunciation of war, or accept the inevitability that such man-made forces would ultimately abolish most or all of us. (Think nuclear winter.) Only through the former could we hope for collective redemption rather than collective suicide.

In our annual ritual of remembrance, Hiroshima is recalled not so much as a site of mass slaughter, but as a symbol of peace, hope, and resilience, a testament to our professed commitment to never again. Yet this year, such sanitized appeals of official memory rang increasingly hollow. After all, eight decades later, humanity (or at least its leadership) continues to demonstrate that it learned remarkably little from the horrors of Hiroshima.

What, after all, could it mean to commemorate such a moment in a world where today not one, but nine nuclear-armed states hold humanity hostage to the threat of sudden, total annihilation? Worse yet, todays arsenals contain thousands of thermonuclear weapons, some of them up to 1,000 times more powerful than those dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Worse yet, those arsenals are being modernized regularly, the American one to the tune of $1.5 trillion or more as a significant portion of our national resources continues to be siphoned away from meeting human needs and redirected toward preparations for (in)human destruction.

Worse yet, all too many of those weapons remain on hair-trigger alert, poised to extinguish life on Earth in what Daniel Ellsberg, the man who long ago released the top-secret Pentagon Papers, once described as a single, immense hammer-blow to be executed with the automaticity of a mousetrap at almost any provocation.

Under this countrys current launch-on-warning posture, President Donald Trump (and any president who follows him) holds sole, unquestioned authority to initiate a retaliatory nuclear strike, with as little as six minutes to decide following an alert about a possible nuclear attack (despite a well-documented history of false alarms). This scenario also presumes that the U.S. would only be acting in self-defense in response to a nuclear strike by another nation, although mutually assured destruction renders such concepts obsolete. In reality, that assumption is far from certain. Washington (unlike, for example, Beijing) has never adopted a no-first-use policy and continues to reserve the right to initiate a nuclear strike preemptively.

Moreover, what does it mean to remember Hiroshima in a world where, while no atomic bomb has been dropped on Gaza, the tonnage of conventional explosives unleashed there is already equivalent to six Hiroshima bombings? As the nuclear abolitionist organization Nihon Hidankyo, composed of Japanese atomic bomb survivors, warned in the lead-up to being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2024, the suffering of Gazas children all too eerily mirrors their own experiences in Hiroshima.

That city is therefore not merely a past atrocity but an open wound, not simply a lesson of history but an ongoing nightmare. There is, in short, no true way to meaningfully honor its memory while so many countries (my own included) actively prepare for future nuclear war.

At this moment, the history of the bomb needs to be reconsidered, not as an isolated development in an increasingly distant past but as inextricably linked to broader questions of mass violence now, including in Gaza. Such an approach, in fact, would reflect the way the bomb was originally understood by many of the scientists who built it, sensing that it would prove to be what some of them would soon describe as a weapon of genocide.

Destroying Cities and Calling it Peace

After those two atomic bombs leveled Hiroshima and Nagasaki, slaughtering up to 210,000 people, the vast majority of them civilians by deliberate design, most Americans responded with relief. Echoing the official narrative, they celebrated the bomb as a triumph of scientific ingenuity and a winning weapon associated with bringing a swift and decisive end to World War II, the bloodiest conflict in human history.

Decades of historical scholarship have demonstrated that such a narrative is largely a myth. In the aftermath of those two bombings, a carefully constructed postwar consensus quickly emerged, bolstered by inflated claims that those two bombs were used only as a last resort, that they saved half a million American lives, and, perversely enough, that they constituted a form of mercy killing that spared many Japanese civilians. In reality, clear alternatives were then available, rendering the use of nuclear weapons unnecessary and immoral as well as, given the future nuclearization of the planet, strategically self-defeating.

Nonetheless, a war-weary American public overwhelmingly endorsed the bombings. Postwar polls indicated that 85% of them supported a decision made without their knowledge, input, or any form of democratic oversight. Notably, nearly a quarter of respondents expressed a further vengeful, even genocidal disappointment that Japan had surrendered so quickly, denying the United States the opportunity to drop many more atomic bombs (although no additional atomic weapons were then available).

It remains unclear whether, had they been ready, Washington would have used them. Despite President Harry Trumans public posture of steely resolve, his private reflections suggest a deep unease, even horror over their use. As Secretary of Commerce Henry Wallace recorded in his diary, Truman had given orders to stop atomic bombing. He said the thought of wiping out another 100,000 people was too horrible. He didnt like the idea of killing, as he said, all those kids.

Why, then, were most Americans not similarly horrified? As historians John Dower and Ronald Takaki have shown, such exterminationist sentiments were fueled by anti-Asian racism, which framed the Pacific War in the American imagination as a race war. But perhaps more important, the way had been paved for them by the normalization of the practice of devastating area bombing, or more accurately, the terror bombing of both Nazi Germany and Japan.

Over the course of the war, the United States and Great Britain had perfected that indiscriminate method of destruction, targeting civilian morale and the collective will and capacity of a nation to sustain its war effort. This came despite the fact that President Franklin D. Roosevelt publicly condemned the aerial bombardment of civilian infrastructure before the U.S. entry into the war as inhuman barbarism.

As Daniel Ellsberg observed, when it came to the rapid erosion of ethical restraints under the exigencies of an existential war, liberal democracies in fighting an evil enemy, picked up the methods of that enemy and made them into a private ethic that was indistinguishable really from Hitlers ethic. That moral collapse would be evident in the devastation wrought upon the German cities of Hamburg and Dresden, as well as in the similar destruction inflicted by the firebombing of Tokyo and other Japanese cities.

That descent into barbarism was not lost on contemporary observers. Reflecting on the 1943 Allied bombing of Hamburg, outspoken pacifist Vera Brittain described the destruction as a scene from the evil nightmare of a homicidal maniac and as irrefutable evidence of the moral and spiritual abyss into which Britain and her rulers have descended. She warned that such actions stemmed from a selective and hypocritical blindness, observing that, in the Nazis and the Japanese we recognize cruelty when we see it, yet that same cruelty is being created, unperceived, amongst ourselves.

And such a recognition wasnt confined to pacifists but extended to policymakers. In response to the devastation caused by the conventional bombing campaign against Japan, including the burning to death of as many as 130,000 people in Tokyo in a single night in March 1945, Secretary of War Henry Stimson warned that, if such attacks continued, we might get the reputation of outdoing Hitler in atrocities. (The New York Times reported that the bombing of Tokyo may have killed as many as one to two million people. While not necessarily accurate, such reporting reflected a broader desensitization to mass death that had come to define the logic of total war, as well as a growing public tolerance among Americans for urbicide, the city-scale slaughter of civilians.)

On Nazi and Nuclear Holocausts

Not everyone in the Allied nations shared in the prevailing atmosphere of apathy or even jubilation over those nuclear bombings. Before the second bomb struck Nagasaki, French philosopher Albert Camus expressed his horror that even in a war defined by unprecedented, industrialized slaughter, Hiroshima stood apart. The destruction of that city, he observed, marked the moment when mechanistic civilization has come to its final stage of savagery. Soon after, American cultural critic Dwight Macdonald condemned the bombings in Politics, arguing that they placed Americans on the same moral plane as the Nazis, rendering the American people as complicit in the crimes of their government as the German people had been in theirs.

American scholar Lewis Mumford likewise regarded that moment as a profound moral collapse. It marked, he argued in 1959, the point at which the U.S. decided to commit the better part of its national energies to preparation for wholesale human extermination. With the advent of the bomb, Americans accepted their role as moral monsters, legitimizing technological slaughter as a permissible instrument of state power. In principle, he wrote, the extermination camps where the Nazis incinerated over six million helpless Jews were no different from the urban crematoriums our air force improvised in its attacks by napalm bombs on Tokyo, laying the groundwork for the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The specter of Nazism has always loomed large over the atomic bomb. It was, after all, the fear of a Nazi bomb that first catalyzed the Manhattan Project that would create the American bombs. While the fall of the Nazi regime preceded the use of atomic weapons on Japan by nearly three months, as soft-spoken astronomer Carl Sagan once observed, the ideological imprint of Nazism was etched into the littered landscape of charred bodies and scorched earth of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It endured in the brutal logic of total war carried forward through the ensuing Cold War arms race with the Soviet Union and culminated in the grotesque accumulation of nuclear arsenals with tens of thousands of world-destroying weapons poised to obliterate humanity.

In a 1986 keynote address before the World Jewish Congress in Jerusalem, The Final Solution to the Human Problem, Sagan argued that Hitler haunts our century [as] he has shattered our confidence that civilized societies can impose limits on human destructiveness. In their mutually reinforcing preparations to annihilate one another, erase the past, and foreclose the possibility of future generations, he concluded, the superpowers have dutifully embraced this legacy Adolf Hitler lives on.

Lacking Hitler, Sagan suggested, Washington and Moscow imposed his image on each other. This was necessary because nuclear weapons represent such a surpassing evil that they can be justified only by an equally evil adversary. Humanity, he warned, was then locked in a downward spiral into a moral abyss reminiscent of a Greek tragedy. When we engage in a death struggle with a monster, there is a real danger that we ourselves will, by slow and imperceptible changes, become transmogrified into monsters. We may be the last to notice what is happening to us.

This influence was evident in the fact that fear of a Nazi bomb had served as the initial impetus for the Manhattan Project and that the future nuclear state would share certain characteristics of the Nazi regime. As psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton described it, such a state would rely on the genocidal mentality, a psychological willingness, combined with the technological capacity and institutional planning necessary to, under certain circumstances, deliberately destroy entire human populations.

No More Hiroshimas

In concluding his 1986 address, Carl Sagan warned that World War II had never truly ended. And in a sense, it hasnt ended even today, given that nine countries now possess such world-destroying weaponry. After all, were a nuclear war to happen in the years to come, a scenario the most powerful states have spent the past 80 years preparing for and making ever more likely, the Allies will have retroactively lost the war. In the radioactive ruins of what was once Washington and New York, Leningrad, Moscow, and Beijing, New Delhi, and Islamabad, no less potentially across much of the rest of this planet, we would witness the fulfillment of Hitlers last and maddest vision.

Such a future is anything but hypothetical. It may, in some sense, already be unfolding around us. It takes no great imagination to envision Hiroshima in the wreckage of Gaza or in the increasingly bombed-out cities of Ukraine. And thats just a hint of the future, were nuclear weapons ever to be used. If we dont dedicate ourselves to building a world without war and without nuclear weapons, sooner or later we will undoubtedly witness just such devastation on a global and irreversible scale.

To survive as a species and preserve our humanity, we must, as Dwight Macdonald urged us in August 1945, begin to think dangerous thoughts of sabotage, resistance, rebellion, and the fraternity of all [people] everywhere. Only then could we commemorate Hiroshima Day without the hypocrisy of talking peace while endlessly preparing for a world-ending war. Only then could we begin to fulfill the enduring promise of never again, no more Hiroshimas.

Copyright 2025 Eric Ross

Tomdispatch.com
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - Galiano Gold Inc. ("Galiano" or the "Company") (TSX: GAU) (NYSE American: GAU) is pleased to report its second quarter ("Q2") 2025 operating and financial results. Galiano owns a 90% interest in the Asanko Gold Mine ("AGM") located on the Asankrangwa Gold Belt in the Republic of Ghana, West Africa.

All financial information contained in this news release is unaudited and reported in United States dollars.

Q2 2025 AND YEAR-TO-DATE HIGHLIGHTS

Safety

No lost-time injuries ("LTI") nor total recordable injuries (inclusive of LTIs) ("TRI") recorded during Q2 2025.

12month rolling LTI and TRI frequency rates as of June 30, 2025 of 0.42 and 0.97 per million hours worked, respectively.

Mining

Mining activities focused on the Abore and Esaase deposits with 1.4 million tonnes ("Mt") of ore mined at an average mined grade of 0.8 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold and a strip ratio of 5.9:1 during Q2 2025.

Development of Cut 3 at the Nkran deposit continued to ramp up with 1.7 Mt of waste mined during the quarter, a 113% increase compared to Q1 2025.

Processing

1.2 Mt of ore was milled at an average feed grade of 0.8 g/t gold, with metallurgical recovery averaging 89% during Q2 2025.

Secondary crushing circuit was completed on budget and commissioned at the end of July 2025 . Processing plant milling capacity is now expected to return to a 5.8 Mt per annum throughput rate.

. Processing plant milling capacity is now expected to return to a 5.8 Mt per annum throughput rate. Produced 30,350 ounces of gold during the quarter, a 46% increase compared to Q1 2025. 51,084 ounces of gold produced year-to-date.

Sold 29,287 ounces of gold during the quarter and 56,281 ounces of gold year-to-date at average realized prices of a quarterly record $3,317 per ounce ("/oz") and $3,084 /oz, respectively, excluding the effect of realized losses on gold hedging instruments.

Cost and capital expenditures

Total cash costs 1 of $1,602 /oz and all-in sustaining costs 1 ("AISC") of $2,251 /oz for the quarter (year-to-date AISC 1 of $2,339 /oz). AISC 1 declined by 10% compared to Q1 2025.

of /oz and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") of /oz for the quarter (year-to-date AISC of /oz). AISC declined by 10% compared to Q1 2025. Sustaining capital expenditures, excluding capitalized stripping costs, of $2.2 million and development capital expenditures (excluding Nkran pre-stripping costs) of $4.9 million during Q2 2025.

and development capital expenditures (excluding Nkran pre-stripping costs) of during Q2 2025. Capitalized development pre-stripping costs at Nkran Cut 3 of $6.9 million during Q2 2025, and $10.1 million year-to-date.

_________________________ 1 See section "Non-IFRS Performance Measures" of this news release.

Financial

Cash and cash equivalents of $114.7 million at June 30, 2025 , and no debt.

at , and no debt. Generated cash flow from operating activities of $35.8 million during Q2 2025.

during Q2 2025. Income from mine operations of $37.2 million during Q2 2025.

during Q2 2025. Net income of $0.07 per common share and adjusted net income 1 of $0.08 per common share during Q2 2025.

per common share and adjusted net income of per common share during Q2 2025. Adjusted EBITDA1 (as defined herein) of $39.9 million during Q2 2025.

Exploration

A deep step-out drilling program at the Abore deposit, totaling 1,907m across a 1,200m strike length, yielded positive results with mineralization intercepted in all four holes, including 36m at 2.5 g/t gold (refer to news release dated July 14, 2025 ).

"We are pleased with the progress made during the period with production, all-in sustaining costs, earnings per share, and cash balances all improving quarter-on-quarter. This momentum, in combination with the commissioning of the secondary crusher ahead of schedule in late July, positions us well for a strong second half of the year," said Matt Badylak, Galiano's President and Chief Executive Officer. "The results from our Abore deep drilling program confirm the presence of a mineralized system 200 metres below the current Mineral Reserve over a significant 1,200 metre strike length. These findings highlight the expansion potential at Abore and provide additional exploration targets to unlock further value beneath our existing reserves."

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Q2 2025 Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q2 2024 Health and safety LTIs - 2 1 - - 12-month rolling LTI frequency rate 0.42 0.43 0.15 0.00 0.15 Mining Ore mined ('000t) 1,365 1,296 531 670 467 Waste mined ('000t) 9,824 9,124 8,698 9,726 7,427 Strip ratio (W:O) 7.2 7.0 16.4 14.5 15.9 Average gold grade mined (g/t) 0.8 0.8 1.0 1.1 1.0 Mining cost ($/t mined)  total(1) 3.65 3.36 3.41 3.52 2.98 Mining cost ($/t mined)  producing(1) 3.59 3.31 3.41 3.52 2.98 Mining cost ($/t mined)  development(1) 4.00 3.98 - - - Ore tonnes trucked ('000 t) 1,030 1,053 685 665 503 Ore transportation cost ($/t trucked) 4.49 4.43 4.75 4.56 5.71 Processing Ore milled ('000t) 1,193 1,086 1,179 1,162 1,336 Average mill head grade (g/t) 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.7 Average recovery rate (%) 89 87 85 91 82 Processing cost ($/t milled) 12.89 14.37 15.84 12.49 11.18 General and administrative cost ($/t milled) 6.24 5.78 6.28 5.74 5.13 Gold produced (oz) 30,350 20,734 28,508 29,784 26,437 Capital expenditures Sustaining capital ($m) 2.2 1.3 0.8 0.8 0.6 Development capital ($m) 4.9 3.3 2.0 4.0 2.3 Development pre-stripping capital ($m) 6.9 3.2 - - - Financial, costs and cash flow Revenue ($m) 97.3 76.6 64.6 71.1 64.0 Gold sold (oz) 29,287 26,994 24,673 29,014 27,830 Average realized gold price ($/oz) 3,317 2,833 2,609 2,446 2,292 AISC ($/oz sold)(2) 2,251 2,501 2,638 2,161 1,759 Income from mine operations ($m) 37.2 15.4 21.8 26.4 23.6 Cash flow from operating activities ($m) 35.8 25.9 13.8 24.4 4.5 Free cash flow ($m)(2) 5.6 0.7 (3.1) (1.6) (9.7) Adjusted net income ($m)(2) 21.1 3.4 5.1 17.7 7.3 Adjusted EBITDA ($m)(2) 39.9 19.0 21.2 25.6 16.2

(1) Total mining cost per tonne includes total mining costs for all producing deposits (i.e. Abore and Esaase) and deposits in development (i.e Nkran). Producing mining cost per tonne reflects unit mining rates at the Abore and Esaase deposits combined, while development mining cost per tonne reflects unit mining rates at the Nkran deposit only. (2) Refer to section "Non-IFRS Performance Measures" of this news release.

Mining

Development of the Abore pit continued during Q2 2025 with mined ore totaling 0.8 Mt, an increase of 18% from Q1 2025, at an average grade of 0.9 g/t gold. The strip ratio at Abore was 6.2:1, a decrease of 17% from Q1 2025.

Continued mining operations at the Esaase deposit with mined ore totaling 0.5 Mt at an average grade of 0.7 g/t gold and a strip ratio of 5.5:1.

Mining cost per tonne at Abore and Esaase averaged $3.59 per tonne ("/t") in Q2 2025 compared to $2.98 /t in Q2 2024 at Abore only. The increase in mining unit rates was due to higher load and haul costs associated with mining deeper benches, as well as higher drill and blast costs resulting from mining a higher proportion of fresh granite ore at Abore.

per tonne ("/t") in Q2 2025 compared to /t in Q2 2024 at Abore only. The increase in mining unit rates was due to higher load and haul costs associated with mining deeper benches, as well as higher drill and blast costs resulting from mining a higher proportion of fresh granite ore at Abore. Continued with waste stripping of Cut 3 at the Nkran deposit with 1.7 Mt of waste rock mined during Q2 2025, an increase of 113% from Q1 2025. Mined volumes at Nkran are expected to gradually increase as the mining contractor continues to mobilize most of its mining fleet over the remainder of this year.

At Nkran, mining cost per tonne was $4.00 for Q2 2025, which included an allocation of general overhead costs. Nkran waste stripping costs were capitalized as development capital expenditures during the quarter.

Processing

The AGM produced 30,350 ounces of gold during Q2 2025, an increase of 46% from Q1 2025, as the processing plant milled 1.2 Mt of ore at an average grade of 0.8 g/t gold with metallurgical recovery averaging 89%. The increase in gold production was driven by higher plant availability, following the 14-day maintenance shutdown in Q1 2025, resulting in 10% more tonnes milled in Q2 2025. Gold production in Q2 2025 was also positively impacted by the high gold-in-process inventory balance that existed at the end of Q1 2025.

Gold production during Q2 2025 continued to be impacted by lower milling rates, as harder mined ore from Abore required additional crushing and grinding, compared to softer ore from Esaase that was the primary mill feed source in Q2 2024. The AGM remains on track to meet the lower end of the production guidance range of 130,000 to 150,000 ounces of gold in 2025.

The construction of a permanent secondary crushing circuit at the AGM processing plant was completed at the end of July 2025 . As of the date of this news release, the secondary crushing circuit is ramping up to full capability. The objective of the secondary crushing circuit is to maintain plant throughput at the design capacity of 5.8 Mt per annum when treating harder ore.

. As of the date of this news release, the secondary crushing circuit is ramping up to full capability. The objective of the secondary crushing circuit is to maintain plant throughput at the design capacity of 5.8 Mt per annum when treating harder ore. Processing cost per tonne for Q2 2025 was $12.89 , a 10% decrease from Q1 2025. On an absolute basis, processing costs were consistent quarter-on-quarter. The decrease in processing cost per tonne in Q2 2025 was driven by 10% more tonnes milled, which decreased fixed processing costs on a per unit basis.

Capital Expenditures

Sustaining capital expenditures during Q2 2025 totaled $2.2 million and related primarily to a tailings facility expansion.

and related primarily to a tailings facility expansion. Development capital expenditures, excluding Nkran pre-stripping costs, during Q2 2025 totaled $4.9 million and related primarily to construction of the now completed secondary crushing circuit.

and related primarily to construction of the now completed secondary crushing circuit. $6.9 million in development pre-stripping costs were incurred at the Nkran deposit related to Cut 3 waste removal and initial site establishment costs.

Costs

AISC 1 for Q2 2025 was $2,251 /oz, compared to $1,759 /oz in the comparative period. The increase in AlSC 1 was primarily driven by higher capitalized stripping costs at the Abore and Esaase deposits and higher royalties expense relative to Q2 2024. Also, during Q2 2024, low grade stockpiled ore was processed that had no accounting book value and, as such, had no mining cost attributed to it, which resulted in lower operating costs in the comparative quarter.

for Q2 2025 was /oz, compared to /oz in the comparative period. The increase in AlSC was primarily driven by higher capitalized stripping costs at the Abore and Esaase deposits and higher royalties expense relative to Q2 2024. Also, during Q2 2024, low grade stockpiled ore was processed that had no accounting book value and, as such, had no mining cost attributed to it, which resulted in lower operating costs in the comparative quarter. Relative to Q1 2025, AISC 1 decreased by 10% in Q2 2025 due to 8% higher gold sales volumes.

decreased by 10% in Q2 2025 due to 8% higher gold sales volumes. The Company expects AISC1 for FY 2025 at the higher end of its guidance range due to production expectations at the lower end of the guidance range. In addition, there have been several factors outside of the Company's control that impact the Company's reported AISC1. Higher royalties resulting from higher realized gold prices and the increase to the Growth and Sustainability Levy ("GSL") from 1% to 3% effective April 1, 2025 , are estimated to impact FY 2025 AISC1 by approximately a further $100 /oz (at the current spot gold price). Furthermore, the rapid appreciation of the Ghanaian Cedi against the US dollar during Q2 2025 adds further upward pressure on AISC1, if sustained over the remainder of 2025.

Exploration

Infill drilling completed at the Abore deposit led to discovery of a new high-grade zone immediately below the mineral reserve pit shell at the south end of the Abore Main pit, including 50 meters ("m") at 3.2 g/t gold ( refer to news release dated May 5, 2025 ). The infill drilling also increased confidence in the mineral reserve and mineral resource in the area in and around the known high-grade zone at the Abore South pit, while also increasing the strike length of this zone from 90m to 180m .

). The infill drilling also increased confidence in the mineral reserve and mineral resource in the area in and around the known high-grade zone at the Abore South pit, while also increasing the strike length of this zone from to . Positive results from a deep step-out drilling program at the Abore deposit, totaling 1,907m across a 1,200m strike length, with mineralization intercepted in all four holes, including 36m at 2.5 g/t gold (refer to news release dated July 14, 2025 ). The program confirmed the Abore granite and mineralizing system continues 200m below the current Mineral Reserve pit shell over a strike length of at least 1,200m , remains open in all directions and appears to carry sufficient grades and widths below the current Mineral Reserve pit shell to support the potential development of bulk underground mining.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 AND 2024

Three months ended June 30, (All amounts in 000's of US dollars, unless otherwise stated) 2025 2024 Revenue 97,304 63,963 Income from mine operations 37,162 23,581 Net income attributable to common shareholders 19,326 7,280 Net income per share attributable to common shareholders 0.07 0.03 Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders1 21,133 8,805 Adjusted net income per share attributable to common shareholders1 0.08 0.03 Adjusted EBITDA1 39,850 16,202 Cash and cash equivalents 114,681 123,039 Cash generated from operating activities 35,814 4,463

The Company sold 29,287 ounces of gold in Q2 2025 at a quarterly record average realized gold price of $3,317 /oz for total revenue of $97.3 million . The increase in revenue from the comparative period was due to a 45% increase in realized prices and a 5% increase in gold ounces sold.

/oz for total revenue of . The increase in revenue from the comparative period was due to a 45% increase in realized prices and a 5% increase in gold ounces sold. Income from mine operations for Q2 2025 totaled $37.2 million , compared to $23.6 million in Q2 2024. The increase in income from mine operations was due to higher revenues as described above. This was partly offset by higher depreciation expense on mining leases and higher depletion expense on Abore and Essase deferred stripping costs during Q2 2025. Royalties expense was also higher in Q2 2025 due to higher earned revenues and the increase to the GSL from 1% to 3% effective April 1, 2025 .

, compared to in Q2 2024. The increase in income from mine operations was due to higher revenues as described above. This was partly offset by higher depreciation expense on mining leases and higher depletion expense on Abore and Essase deferred stripping costs during Q2 2025. Royalties expense was also higher in Q2 2025 due to higher earned revenues and the increase to the GSL from 1% to 3% effective . The Company reported net income attributable to common shareholders of $19.3 million in Q2 2025, compared to $7.3 million in Q2 2024. The increase in net income during Q2 2025 was primarily due to the increase in income from mine operations as described above, and partly offset by an increase in finance expense related to realized and unrealized losses on the Company's gold hedging derivatives.

in Q2 2025, compared to in Q2 2024. The increase in net income during Q2 2025 was primarily due to the increase in income from mine operations as described above, and partly offset by an increase in finance expense related to realized and unrealized losses on the Company's gold hedging derivatives. Reported Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $39.9 million in Q2 2025, compared to $16.2 million in Q2 2024. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA 1 was primarily driven by higher revenues, partly offset by higher royalties as described above.

of in Q2 2025, compared to in Q2 2024. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA was primarily driven by higher revenues, partly offset by higher royalties as described above. The Company generated $35.8 million of cash flow from operating activities in Q2 2025, compared to $4.5 million in Q2 2024. The increase in operating cash flow was primarily driven by higher realized gold prices during Q2 2025.

of cash flow from operating activities in Q2 2025, compared to in Q2 2024. The increase in operating cash flow was primarily driven by higher realized gold prices during Q2 2025. As of June 30, 2025 , the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $114.7 million and no debt.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 AND 2024

Six months ended June 30, (All amounts in 000's of US dollars, unless otherwise stated) 2025 2024 Revenue 173,894 95,658 Income from mine operations 52,522 29,778 Net (loss) income attributable to common shareholders (7,480) 4,072 Net (loss) income per share attributable to common shareholders (0.03) 0.02 Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders1 24,543 19,376 Adjusted net income per share attributable to common shareholders1 0.10 0.08 Adjusted EBITDA1 58,875 21,105 Cash and cash equivalents 114,681 123,039 Cash generated from operating activities 61,706 17,491

The Company sold 56,281 ounces of gold during the six months ended June 30, 2025 at an average realized gold price of $3,084 /oz for total revenue of $173.9 million . The increase in revenue from the comparative period was due to a 38% increase in realized prices and 32% increase in gold ounces sold.

at an average realized gold price of /oz for total revenue of . The increase in revenue from the comparative period was due to a 38% increase in realized prices and 32% increase in gold ounces sold. Income from mine operations for the six months ended June 30, 2025 totaled $52.5 million , compared to $29.8 million in the comparative period of 2024. The increase in income from mine operations was due to the increase in revenue as described above and the Company only consolidating the financial results of the AGM from March 4, 2024 to June 30, 2024 in the comparative period. These factors were partly offset by higher depreciation and depletion expense and royalties in 2025.

totaled , compared to in the comparative period of 2024. The increase in income from mine operations was due to the increase in revenue as described above and the Company only consolidating the financial results of the AGM from to in the comparative period. These factors were partly offset by higher depreciation and depletion expense and royalties in 2025. The Company reported a net loss attributable to common shareholders of $7.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 , compared to net income of $4.1 million in the comparative period of 2024. The decrease in net income was primarily driven by higher realized and unrealized losses on gold hedging instruments in 2025. This was partly offset by the Company consolidating a full six months of financial results of the AGM in 2025.

for the six months ended , compared to net income of in the comparative period of 2024. The decrease in net income was primarily driven by higher realized and unrealized losses on gold hedging instruments in 2025. This was partly offset by the Company consolidating a full six months of financial results of the AGM in 2025. Reported Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $58.9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2025 , compared to $21.1 million in the comparative period of 2024. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA 1 was driven by higher realized gold prices and the Company consolidating a full six months of financial results of the AGM in 2025.

of during the six months ended , compared to in the comparative period of 2024. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA was driven by higher realized gold prices and the Company consolidating a full six months of financial results of the AGM in 2025. The Company generated $61.7 million of cash flow from operating activities during the six months ended June 30, 2025 , compared to $17.5 million in the comparative period of 2024. The increase in cash flow from operations was driven by higher realized gold prices and the Company consolidating a full six months of financial results of the AGM in 2025.

This news release should be read in conjunction with Galiano's Management's Discussion and Analysis and the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, which are available at www.galianogold.com and filed on SEDAR+.

1 Non-IFRS Performance Measures

The Company has included certain non-IFRS performance measures in this news release. These non-IFRS performance measures do not have any standardized meaning and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Accordingly, these performance measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Refer to the Non-IFRS Measures section of Galiano's Management's Discussion and Analysis for an explanation of these measures and reconciliations to the Company's reported financial results in accordance with IFRS.

Total Cash Costs per Gold Ounce Sold

Management of the Company uses total cash costs per gold ounce sold to monitor the operating performance of the AGM. Total cash costs include the cost of production, adjusted for by-product revenue and production royalties per ounce of gold sold.

Management of the Company uses total cash costs per gold ounce sold to monitor the operating performance of the AGM. Total cash costs include the cost of production, adjusted for by-product revenue and production royalties per ounce of gold sold. AISC per Gold Ounce Sold

The Company has adopted the reporting of "AISC per gold ounce sold". AISC include total cash costs, AGM general and administrative expenses, sustaining capital expenditure, sustaining capitalized stripping costs, reclamation cost accretion and lease payments made on the AGM's mining and other service lease agreements per ounce of gold sold.

The Company has adopted the reporting of "AISC per gold ounce sold". AISC include total cash costs, AGM general and administrative expenses, sustaining capital expenditure, sustaining capitalized stripping costs, reclamation cost accretion and lease payments made on the AGM's mining and other service lease agreements per ounce of gold sold. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") provides an indication of the Company's continuing capacity to generate income from operations before taking into account the Company's financing decisions and costs of amortizing capital assets. Accordingly, EBITDA comprises net income (loss) excluding finance expense, finance income, depreciation and depletion expense, and income taxes. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA to exclude non-recurring items and non-cash items ("Adjusted EBITDA") and includes the calculated Adjusted EBITDA of the AGM joint venture for periods prior to the consolidation of its ownership.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") provides an indication of the Company's continuing capacity to generate income from operations before taking into account the Company's financing decisions and costs of amortizing capital assets. Accordingly, EBITDA comprises net income (loss) excluding finance expense, finance income, depreciation and depletion expense, and income taxes. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA to exclude non-recurring items and non-cash items ("Adjusted EBITDA") and includes the calculated Adjusted EBITDA of the AGM joint venture for periods prior to the consolidation of its ownership. Free cash flow

The Company believes that in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, management and certain investors and analysts use free cash flow to evaluate the Company's performance with respect to its operating cash flow capacity to meet non-discretionary outflows of cash. The presentation of free cash flow is not meant to be a substitute for the cash flow information presented in accordance with IFRS, but rather should be evaluated in conjunction with such IFRS measures. Free cash flow is calculated as cash flow from operating activities, excluding one-time charges not indicative of current period cash flow performance, less cash flows used in investing activities and payments made to mining and service contractors for leases capitalized under IFRS 16.

The Company believes that in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, management and certain investors and analysts use free cash flow to evaluate the Company's performance with respect to its operating cash flow capacity to meet non-discretionary outflows of cash. The presentation of free cash flow is not meant to be a substitute for the cash flow information presented in accordance with IFRS, but rather should be evaluated in conjunction with such IFRS measures. Free cash flow is calculated as cash flow from operating activities, excluding one-time charges not indicative of current period cash flow performance, less cash flows used in investing activities and payments made to mining and service contractors for leases capitalized under IFRS 16. Adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted net income (loss) per common share

The Company has included the non-IFRS performance measures of adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted net income (loss) per common share. Neither adjusted net income (loss) nor adjusted net income (loss) per share have any standardized meaning and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to other measures presented by other issuers. Adjusted net income (loss) excludes certain non-cash items or non-recurring items from net income (loss) to provide a measure which helps the Company and investors to evaluate the results of the underlying core operations of the Company and its ability to generate cash flows and is an important indicator of the strength of the Company's operations and performance of its core business.

Qualified Person

The exploration information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Chris Pettman, P.Geo, Vice President Exploration of Galiano. All other scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Amri Sinuhaji, P.Eng., Vice President Technical Services of Galiano. Mr. Pettman and Mr. Sinuhaji are "Qualified Persons" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call and webcast to review the Q2 results on Thursday, Aug 14, 2025, at 7:30am PT.

Conference Call Details Replay (available until Aug 21, 2025) Date: Aug 14, 2025 Local: 289-819-1450 Time: 10:30 AM ET (7:30 AM PT) Toll Free: 1-888-660-6345 Dial In: 437-900-0527 Access Code: 83510# Toll Free: 1-888-510-2154

The conference call will be webcast https://app.webinar.net/DayQ6KvNKLJ and can be accessed on Galiano's website.

About Galiano Gold Inc.

Galiano is focused on creating a sustainable business capable of value creation for all stakeholders through production, exploration and disciplined deployment of its financial resources. The Company owns the Asanko Gold Mine, which is located in Ghana, West Africa. Galiano is committed to the highest standards for environmental management, social responsibility, and the health and safety of its employees and neighbouring communities. For more information, please visit www.galianogold.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and information contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which we refer to collectively as "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements and information regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that are based upon assumptions about future conditions and courses of action. All statements and information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "seek", "expect", "anticipate", "budget", "plan", "estimate", "continue", "forecast", "intend", "believe", "predict", "potential", "target", "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: statements regarding the Company's operating plans for the AGM and timing thereof; expectations and timing with respect to current and planned drilling programs, including at Abore, and the results thereof; anticipated production and cost guidance; expectations regarding processing plant milling capacity; expectations regarding cash flows from operations; any additional work programs to be undertaken by the Company; potential exploration opportunities and statements regarding the usefulness and comparability of certain non-IFRS measures; and total cash costs and corresponding cost performance relating to the Company's activities. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including, but not limited to: development plans and capital expenditures; the price of gold will not decline significantly or for a protracted period of time; the accuracy of the estimates and assumptions underlying mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates; the Company's ability to raise sufficient funds from future equity financings to support its operations, and general business and economic conditions; the global financial markets and general economic conditions will be stable and prosperous in the future; the AGM will not experience any significant uninsured production disruptions that would materially affect revenues; the ability of the Company to comply with applicable governmental regulations and standards; the mining laws, tax laws and other laws in Ghana applicable to the AGM will not change, and there will be no imposition of additional exchange controls in Ghana; the success of the Company in implementing its development strategies and achieving its business objectives; the Company will have sufficient working capital necessary to sustain its operations on an ongoing basis and the Company will continue to have sufficient working capital to fund its operations; and the key personnel of the Company will continue their employment.

The foregoing list of assumptions cannot be considered exhaustive.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained herein. Some of the risks and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release, include, but are not limited to: the mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates may change and may prove to be inaccurate; life of mine estimates are based on a number of factors and assumptions and may prove to be incorrect; actual production, costs, returns and other economic and financial performance may vary from the Company's estimates in response to a variety of factors, many of which are not within the Company's control; inflationary pressures and the effects thereof; sustained increases in costs, or decreases in the availability, of commodities consumed or otherwise used by the Company may adversely affect the Company; adverse geotechnical and geological conditions (including geotechnical failures) may result in operating delays and lower throughput or recovery, closures or damage to mine infrastructure; the ability of the Company to treat the number of tonnes planned, recover valuable materials, remove deleterious materials and process gold as planned is dependent on a number of factors and assumptions which may not be present or occur as expected; risks related to artisanal and illegal mining activities at or near the AGM, including that the Company's mineral properties may experience a loss of ore, and the Company may experience lack of access to its mineral properties and other issues, due to illegal mining activities; the Company's operations may encounter delays in or losses of production due to equipment delays or the availability of equipment; the ability of the Company to manage procurement risks, including securing timely and cost-effective equipment and services, and mitigate risks related to supplier performance, fraud, collusion, bribery, kickbacks and unethical procurement practices; outbreaks of infectious diseases may have a negative impact on global financial conditions, demand for commodities and supply chains and could adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations and the market price of the common shares of the Company; the Company's operations are subject to continuously evolving legislation, compliance with which may be difficult, uneconomic or require significant expenditures; the Company may be unsuccessful in attracting and retaining key personnel; labour disruptions could adversely affect the Company's operations; metallurgical recoveries may not be economically viable or recoveries may be lower in the future and have a negative impact on the Company's gold production and financial results; the Company's business is subject to risks associated with operating in a foreign country; risks related to the Company's use of contractors; the hazards and risks normally encountered in the exploration, development and production of gold; the Company's operations are subject to environmental hazards and compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations; the effects of climate change or extreme weather events may cause prolonged disruption to the delivery of essential commodities which could negatively affect production efficiency; the Company's operations and workforce are exposed to health and safety risks; unexpected costs and delays related to, or the failure of the Company to obtain, necessary permits could impede the Company's operations; the Company's title to exploration, development and mining interests can be uncertain and may be contested; geotechnical risks associated with the design and operation of a mine and related civil structures; the Company's properties may be subject to claims by various community stakeholders; risks related to limited access to infrastructure and water; risks associated with establishing new mining operations; the Company's revenues are dependent on the market prices for gold, which have recently experienced significant fluctuations; the Company may not be able to secure additional financing when needed or on acceptable terms; the Company's shareholders may be subject to future dilution; risks related to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates; changes to taxation laws applicable to the Company may affect the Company's profitability and ability to repatriate funds; risks related to the Company's internal controls over financial reporting and compliance with applicable accounting regulations and securities laws; risks related to information systems security threats; non-compliance with public disclosure obligations could have an adverse effect on the Company's share price; the carrying value of the Company's assets may change and these assets may be subject to impairment charges; risks associated with changes in reporting standards; the Company may be liable for uninsured or partially insured losses; the Company may be subject to litigation; damage to the Company's reputation could result in decreased investor confidence and increased challenges in developing and maintaining community relations which may have adverse effects on the business, results of operations and financial conditions of the Company and the Company's share price; the Company may be unsuccessful in identifying targets for acquisition or completing suitable corporate transactions, and any such transactions may not be beneficial to the Company or its shareholders; the Company must compete with other mining companies and individuals for mining interests; the Company's growth, future profitability and ability to obtain financing may be impacted by global financial conditions; the Company's common shares may experience price and trading volume volatility; the Company has never paid dividends and does not expect to do so in the foreseeable future; the Company's shareholders may be unable to sell significant quantities of the Company's common shares into the public trading markets without a significant reduction in the price of its common shares, or at all; and any such other risk factors described under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, you are cautioned that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other factors that the Company has not identified. Furthermore, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in, or incorporated by reference in, this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - C3 Metals Inc. (TSXV: CCCM) (OTCQB: CUAUF) ("C3 Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce exploration diamond drilling has commenced within C3 Metals' 100%-owned Bellas Gate Project, Jamaica.

The Bellas Gate Project comprises three separate Special Exclusive Prospecting Licenses and totals 13,020 hectares (Figure 1). On February 11, 2025, the Company announced it had entered into an earn-in agreement with Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation ("Freeport"), a wholly-owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX) whereby Freeport can earn up to 75% in the project by funding up to US$75 million in exploration and project related expenditures (see press release dated February 11, 2025).

Drilling is designed to test multiple copper-gold porphyry prospects identified over a 18km strike extent. In total, 14 porphyry prospects have been identified at Bellas Gate. Drilling will primarily be targeting prospects with limited to no prior drilling so that essential data can be collected in the first 500m. This data, as well as additional geophysical data that is planned to be collected, will help inform optimal locations for potential deeper drilling in the future. Drilling will also target volcanic redbed copper-silver mineralization in the northwest project area (see press release dated July 28, 2025).

Dan Symons, President and CEO, stated, "The technical data that we have collected at Bellas Gate thus far suggests that we are the in the upper portions of these confirmed copper-gold porphyry clusters. Previous C3 Metals drilling has primarily focused on 4 of the 14 copper-gold porphyry prospects identified over a 18km strike extent. The current drill program will primarily focus on testing some of the other 10 prospects in the first 500m where there is limited to no drill data. The drill data from this program, combined with the data to be collected during an extensive geophysical survey, will aid in targeting deeper into these copper-gold porphyry systems. Essentially, we are aiming to collect important data over the next several months that will inform where to rate and rank deeper holes into the confirmed porphyry systems."

Program Highlights

Bellas Gate Project drilling has confirmed near surface copper-gold porphyry mineralization at multiple porphyry centres exposed within an erosional window, including: Provost - 390.7m at 0.37% Cu and 0.19 g/t Au in PVT0900-002 from 64.1m , including 279.5m at 0.43% copper and 0.24 g/t gold intersected in drill hole PVT0900-002 (See press release dated September 25, 2023). Camel Hill - 208m at 0.43% Cu and 0.20 g/t Au in CMH8350-001 from only 22m downhole , incl. 135m at 0.52% Cu and 0.27 g/t Au (See press release dated October 4, 2023). Connors - 309.0m at 0.44% Cu and 0.33g/t Au in CON9325-001 from 15.0m (See press release September 12, 2022).

Volcanic redbed copper-silver mineralization located on the northwest project area will also be tested by short holes targeting the favorable horizons.

Figure 1: Map showing the Bellas Gate Project area identifying the locations of the copper-gold porphyry prospects and a volcanic redbed copper-silver prospect.

2025 Drilling Program

The 2025 drilling program will target a cluster of high-level copper-gold porphyries situated along three parallel structural corridors over a 18km strike extent. These porphyry clusters are locally telescoped by low, intermediate and high sulfidation epithermal vein style copper, gold and silver mineralization. All known porphyries at Bellas Gate Project contain gold mineralization, with copper typically in chalcopyrite form and hosted in volcanic andesite rocks and less commonly in diorite porphyry dykes and stocks. Historical and recent drilling confirms copper-gold mineralization is open at depth and along strike in most systems. Four diamond drill holes over 2,000m have been designed for this phase of relatively shallow drilling into various copper-gold porphyry prospects.

A second target of this drilling campaign is volcanic redbed style copper-silver mineralization in the northwest project area. A recently announced closely spaced soil sampling campaign confirmed a strongly anomalous copper in soil zone that extends for 2,700m and is up to 205m in width. Soil sampling confirmed a 120m wide zone that averaged 0.12% copper and a second soil line assayed 0.16% copper over 50m zone (see press release dated July 28, 2025). This volcanic redbed target has never been drill tested and could potentially be related to a distal porphyry system. Redbed deposits are typically stratabound and can be of significant lateral extent. These styles of deposits account for the second most copper production globally after porphyry deposits. An initial 5-hole, 750m program has been designed to conduct an initial test of the redbed system where strong copper in soil geochemistry has been observed.

In total, 9 diamond drill holes over 2,750m are planned to test porphyry and redbed targets. This drilling program is anticipated to run concurrent with an extensive geophysical survey. Both drill and geophysical data are essential for preparing for the next phase of drilling, which is anticipated to target deeper portions of these porphyry systems.

ABOUT C3 METALS INC.

C3 Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on creating substantive value for its shareholders through the discovery and development of large copper and gold deposits. The Company holds approximately 31,000 hectares located in the prolific high-grade Andahuaylas-Yauri Porphyry-Skarn belt of Southern Peru. Mineralization at Jasperoide is hosted in a similar geological setting to the nearby major mining operations at Las Bambas (MMG), Constancia (Hudbay) and Antapaccay (Glencore). At Jasperoide, the Company has identified over 15 skarn prospects and an outcropping porphyry system over two parallel 28km belts. The Company has published a maiden resource estimate on the first of these skarn targets, which contained Measured & Indicated Resources of 52Mt at 0.5% copper and 0.2 g/t gold[1]. The Company is also actively exploring in Jamaica where it has identified 16 porphyry, 40 epithermal and multiple volcanic redbed copper prospects over a 30km strike extent. The Company holds a 100% interest in 17,855 hectares of exploration licenses, of which Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation, a wholly-owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX), has the option on 13,020 hectares to earn up to a 75% interest by funding up to US$75 million of exploration and project related expenditures. The Company also holds a 50% interest in 9,870 hectares in a joint venture with Geophsyx Jamaica Ltd, the largest mineral tenure holder in the country. Barrick Gold Corp. announced on May 1, 2024 that it had entered into an earn-in agreement with Geophysx Jamaica Ltd. on approximately 400,000 hectares of exploration licenses, several of which surround C3 Metals' mineral concessions. Mining is currently the second largest industry in Jamaica, and historical mining dates back to the colonial eras of the 1500s (Spanish) and 1800s (British).

Related Link: www.c3metals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

QP Statement

Stephen Hughes, P.Geo. is Vice President Exploration and a Director for C3 Metals and is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Hughes has reviewed the technical information in this news release and approves the written disclosure contained herein.

Technical Program

C3 Metals adheres to a strict QA/QC protocol for handling, sampling, sample transportation and analyses. Chain-of-custody protocols are designed to ensure security of samples until their delivery at the laboratory.

Samples will be cut at C3 Metals' operations base in Bellas Gate, St Catherine, Jamaica by Company personnel. Diamond drill core will be sampled in maximum 3-metre intervals, stopping at geological boundaries, and using a rock saw. Core diameter will be a mix of HQ3 and NQ3 depending on the depth of the drill hole. Samples will be bagged, tagged and packaged for shipment by DHL air freight service to the ALS preparation laboratory in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada where entire samples were crushed to 70% passing 10 mesh (2mm), and a 250g split was pulverized to 85% passing 200 mesh (75m).

The prepared samples will be sent to the ALS assay laboratories in Vancouver, Canada for copper, gold and silver assays, and multi-element ICP. ALS is an accredited laboratory which is independent of the Company. Gold assays will be by fire assay fusion with AAS finish on a 30g sample and the overlimit gold assay was completed by fire assay and gravimetric finish on 30g sample. Copper and silver assayed by ICP-AES following a 4-acid digestion on the ME-ICP61 package for a suite of 33 elements and the over limit copper by 4-Acid digestion and assayed by ICP-AES on each sample with copper greater than 10000ppm (1%). Copper and gold standards as well as blanks and duplicates (coarse crush split) will be randomly inserted into the sampling sequence for quality control. On average, 9% of the submitted samples will be quality control samples.

Caution Regarding 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 Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the exploration operations of the Company and the timing which could be affected by the current global COVID-19 pandemic. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate.

While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, risks relating to variations in grade or recovery rates, risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals, risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks, and regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks.

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.

1 Based on the assumptions and parameters outlined in the NI 43-101 Technical Report titled Jasperoide Copper-Gold Project Cusco Region, Peru dated July 5, 2023.
HALIFAX, NS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Silver Tiger Metals Inc. (TSXV:SLVR) (OTCQX:SLVTF) ("Silver Tiger" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce preliminary results from its 2025 Summer Exploration Program on the prospective Northern Veins, located 2 kilometers North of the historic El Tigre Mine and outlines initial exploration plans to test several undrilled greenfield areas on the Southern Veins on its 100% owned, silver-gold El Tigre Project (the "Project" or "El Tigre") located in Sonora, Mexico. Current exploration work consists of mapping and sampling both surface and historic underground workings to define drill ready targets for Q4-2025.

Glenn Jessome, President & CEO stated "As we get nearer to making a construction decision for the open pit portion of the El Tigre Project and with our technical team nearing completion of the underground PEA in coming weeks, we are advancing our summer exploration program. We are currently exploring the prospective area north of the historic El Tigre Mine through focused mapping and sampling of both historic core and underground workings. We will soon begin similar exploration on the Southern Veins."

Mr. Jessome further stated, "The Northern Veins, a faulted offset of the veins at the historic El Tigre Mine, show the same structure, mineralogy, grades and orientations as the well-defined veins around the historic El Tigre Mine on which our PFS and pending underground PEA are based. With the initial 10 kilometers of mapped vein strike length we have to the North and recent assay results we are disclosing today, we see the potential to drill these Northern Veins in our Winter 2025 program."

Exploration Objectives 2025

Begin drilling on Northern Veins in Q4-2025

Generate drill targets in the Southern Veins at Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro through analysis of old mining works

With 25 kilometers of mapped vein strike complete, which is 50% of the project area, the Corporation intends to increase mapping coverage to 70%

Overview - Veins

The El Tigre historic mine district is located in Sonora, Mexico and lies at the northern end of the Sierra Madre silver and gold belt which hosts many epithermal silver and gold deposits, including Dolores, Santa Elena and Las Chispas. The high-grade epithermal veins dip steeply to the west, and are typically 0.5 metres wide, and locally can be up to 5 metres in width. Over 25 kilometers of these veins at El Tigre have been mapped along strike on surface. Based on the extensive historic workings, the veins are inferred to extend to more than 450 metres depth with many veins reaching strike length of 3 kilometers or more. At the El Tigre property there are both brownfields and greenfields targets defined by extensive Silver Tiger drilling. Silver Tiger has found over 60 small-scale workings in addition to the historic El Tigre Mine.

The El Tigre Mine Veins contain over 90% of the Corporation's Measured and Indicated Resource and is the focus area of the PFS and pending PEA. The El Tigre Vein, the Seitz Kelly Vein and the Sooy Vein (the "El Tigre Mine Veins") have over 10 kilometers of combined vein strike length of which only 50% is drill tested. Gold was first discovered in 1896 with mining beginning soon after on the El Tigre Mine Veins (Figure 1). Significant underground mining took place with over 32 kilometers of development completed before mine closure with a reported 353,000 ounces of gold and 67.4 million ounces of silver extracted at an average grade of over 2 kilograms silver equivalent per ton.The Corporation's Drill Hole ET-21-264, returned assays up to 82,827.3 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres proximal to historically mining stopes, showing high-grade vein mineralization continues at depth and along strike (see the Corporation's press release dated Nov 9, 2021).

Figure 1: El Tigre Project - Northern and Southern Exploration Targets

The Northern Vein Area has over 10 kilometers of combined strike length confirmed by surface mapping and sampling, drilling and the presence of underground workings mainly on the Fundadora, Protectora and Caleigh Veins. This area is considered brownfields with 15% of the mapped strike of veins being drilled. These veins are the faulted offset of the El Tigre Mine Veins and exhibit the same structure, mineralogy, grades, orientations, strike length and width (1-2 metres) as the well-defined El Tigre Mine Veins that account for bulk of the Corporation's Mineral Resource Estimate.

The Southern Veins which includes Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro is considered greenfields with veins striking for over 10 kilometers and no drilling ever conducted on this area. This prospective area is evidenced by historic workings and high-grade channel sampling. The El Toro, Lluvia de Oro and La Mancha Veins are hosted in the El Tigre Formation, a permissive formation that is the host for the Stockwork Zone, which is the basis of the Company's PFS (see the Corporation's Press Release dated October 22, 2024).

Figure 2: Current Sampling of Historic Workings - Northern Veins

Northern Veins - 2025 Summer Exploration Plan - Brownfields Targets

Exploration crews have begun to locate, catalog, map and sample historic adits and drifts in the Northern Veins (Figure 2). This work is aimed at confirming the geological similarities of the Northern Vein mineralized systems to the well-established El Tigre, Seitz-Kelly and Sooy Veins. Once assessment of the historic workings is complete all adits and drifts will be scanned with a LiDAR-capable drone. For the remainder of the summer, Silver Tiger will continue to define targets to drill in Q4-2025.

After surveying the tunnels, the geologists mapped the veins and then collected chip samples across the veins at intervals between 3 to 5 metres along the length of the tunnel. The samples were chipped with a rock hammer across the face of the vein exposed in the tunnel. The minimum length of the samples was 0.50 metres, and the samples weighed approximately 3 to 5 kg. Sampling was stopped at either the end of the tunnel or when access was restricted due to ground conditions. Of the 110 chip samples collected, the chip sample assay results received to date are set out in the table below (see Table 1 and Figure 2 for Sample Location).

As work progresses on the Northern Veins, exploration crews will begin analysing Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro on the Southern Veins.

Table 1: Significant Channel Samples on Northern Veins

Vein Channel ID Samples From To Interval(1) Sample # Au Ag AgEq(2) m m m g/t g/t g/t Fundadora ETL-2078 Composite: ETS-4847/4848/4849 0.0 1.6 1.6 3 0.15 464 476 Fundadora ETL-2078 Including: ETS-4849 1.1 1.6 0.5 1 0.24 654 672 Fundadora ETL-2079 Composite: ETS-4853/4853 0.0 0.8 0.8 2 0.40 95 118

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

Reconnaissance drilling was conducted on the Northern veins by the Company in 2017 and 2020, before shifting focus to the development of the El Tigre Mine Veins. Significant veins were consistently intercepted in the North (Table 2) proving the continuity and grade seen in the underground historic workings. Anaconda (c. 1982-83) completed a 250 metre exploration drift on the Northern Veins (Figure 4).

Table 2: Historic Significant Intercepts in Northern Veins

Hole ID Comment From m To m Length (1) Au g/t Ag g/t AgEq (2) g/t g/t g/t ET-83-015 Fundadora Vein 172.4 173.5 1.1 14.38 537.7 1,616.1 Including 172.4 173.0 0.60 24.40 913.0 2,743.0 ET-17-144 Caleigh Vein 88.3 91.4 3.15 10.10 1,990.9 2,748.4 Including 88.3 89.1 0.85 37.20 7,338.9 10,128.9 ET-20-158 Caleigh Vein 89.1 91.2 2.10 1.46 280.5 390.1 including 90.0 90.7 0.70 4.09 815.0 1,121.6 ET-20-163 Protectora Vein 10.0 18.4 8.40 0.42 165.5 197.1 Including 16.9 17.4 0.50 3.56 1,782.0 2,049.1 ET-20-164 Protectora Vein 17.0 28.4 11.40 0.66 87.1 136.8 Including 17.0 17.5 0.50 10.50 805.0 1,592.5 ET-20-193 Benjamin Vein 114.0 119.5 5.50 0.08 726.l 732.2 Including 116.5 119.5 3.00 0.09 1,303.2 1,310.1

Notes: 1) Not true width.; 2) Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") ratios are based on a silver to gold price ratio of 75:1 (Au:Ag).

The Northern Veins consist of both historically mined veins including the Protectora and Fundadora (Figure 3); and veins discovered by the Corporation including the Benjamin and Caleigh (see the Corporation's Press Releases dated Sept 10, 2020 and Nov 17, 2020).

Figure 3: Plan View El Tigre Project- Northern Veins

Caleigh Vein

Discovered in 2020 by the Corporation, the Caleigh Vein is the highest grade of the Northern Veins with, for example, DDH ET-17-144 returning assays at 10,129 g/t silver equivalent over 0.85 metres (Table 2). The Caleigh Vein is mapped on surface for 1.2 kilometers with only 25% of the vein drill tested.

Benjamin Vein and Black Shale

The newly discovery Benjamin Vein has been mapped on surface for 1 kilometer, with only 25% drill tested. Drill hole DDH ET-20-193 returned assays at 1,310 g/t silver equivalent over 3.0 metres (Table 2). The Benjamin Vein also hosts significant Black Shale style mineralization that is seen in the El Tigre Mine Veins.

Fundadora Vein - Northern Veins

This vein was intermittently mined during the time of the El Tigre Mine (c. 1892-1930) and therefore hosts many small workings including a 250+ metre exploration drift constructed by Anaconda Mining in 1982 (Figure 4). Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-83-015 returning assays at 2,743 g/t silver equivalent over 0.6 metres (Table 2). The Fundadora Vein has been mapped over 2 kilometers on surface with only 15% of the vein drill tested.

Figure 4: Plan View -Historic UG Sampling and Mapping Fundadora Workings

Protectora Vein - Northern Veins

The Protectora Vein extends along strike for 2 kilometers and from its position, dip. and strike it can be considered the north extension of the Sooy Vein. This vein has only been drill tested for 15% of the mapped strike length. Like the Fundadora vein, this vein was mined historically as The Palomita Mine and the North Tigre Mine. Drilling assays confirm the high grade seen in channel sampling in a 2020 program, with DDH ET-20-163 returning assays at 2,049 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres (Table 2).

Figure 4: Historic Workings Exploration - Protectora Vein

Southern Veins - Lluvia De Oro, La Mancha and El Toro - Greenfields Target

Reconnaissance mapping and sampling was conducted in the Lluvia de Oro Area by the Company in 2016 and 2020. The El Toro and La Mancha Veins, while mapped, remain unsampled.

Significant historic underground workings (greater than 500 metres in length) were found in Lluvia de Oro with grab sampling completed in a 2020 program returning assays up to 1.90 g/t gold and 1,300 g/t silver (Figure 5). Importantly, the Lluvia de Oro vein system is contained within the El Tigre formation, the host to the Stockwork Zone of which the Corporation's 2024 PFS is centered. There is potential to extend open pit mineralization from the far south of the proprosed open pit south towards Lluvia de Oro.

Figure 5: Plan View El Tigre Project- Lluvia de Oro - Southern Veins

Table 3: Drillhole Locations for Significant Intercepts - Northern Veins

Hole/Channel ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length ET-83-015 670,320.0 3,387,317.9 2054.9 91 -61 187.7 ET-17-144 670,678.9 3,386,642.0 2001.5 90 -45 224.0 ET-20-158 670,678.8 3,386,646.9 1999.4 90 -45 131.2 ET-20-163 670,827.8 3,386,689.9 2020.0 90 -25 61.0 ET-20-164 670,825.9 3,386,689.9 2019.6 90 -45 114.4 ET-20-193 670,390.0 3,386,120.8 1935.6 90 -50 186.1 ETL-2078 670,471.0 3,387,332.0 2124.0 270 -14 2.7 ETL-2079 670,471.0 3,387,330.0 2123.0 230 15 0.8

Underground Preliminary Economic Assessment Update

The Company's Technical Team and lead consultants (P&E Mining), are near completion of underground PEA with expected release in Q3-2025. The underground PEA is centered on the high-grade Vein, Sulfide and Shale Zones. Final process flow diagram design and costing are in process with initial cost (CAPEX) and operational expenditures (OPEX) established, and metallurgical and geotechnical studies complete.

Open Pit Update

The Company is preparing for a construction decision of the Open Pit portion of the El Tigre Project. Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (KCA) of Reno, experts in heap leach design, have been retained for a Detailed Engineering to Process Study. WSP has completed the preliminary Engineering to Heap Leach and Ponds.

About Silver Tiger and the El Tigre Historic Mine District

Silver Tiger Metals Inc. is a Canadian company whose management has more than 27 years' experience discovering, financing, and building large hydrothermal gold and silver mines in Mexico. Silver Tiger's 100% owned 28,414 hectare Historic El Tigre Mining District is located in Sonora, Mexico. Principled environmental, social and governance practices are core priorities at Silver Tiger.

Silver Tiger commenced work on its El Tigre Project in 2017. Silver Tiger has drilled over 150,000 metres at the El Tigre Project, with 119,000 metres completed since 2020. Silver Tiger has completed a maiden MRE in 2017 and MRE updates in 2023 and 2024. The PEA for the El Tigre open pit was released in November 2023.

The 2024 PFS for the El Tigre open pit delivered robust economics. The PFS projects an After-Tax NPV of US$222 million at a 5% discount rate, an After-Tax IRR of 40.0%, and a payback period of 2.0 years. This open pit operation is expected to have a 10-year mine life. The El Tigre project delivers a life of mine undiscounted After-Tax Cash Flow of US$318 million, with initial capital costs of $86.8 million (including $9.3 million in contingency). Operating cash costs are projected at $973/oz AuEq and $12/oz AgEq, with AISC at $1,214/oz AuEq and $14/oz AgEq. The economics of the Project have been evaluated based on a discounted $26/oz silver price and gold price of $2,150/oz.

A PEA for the permitted underground mineral resource is expected to be released in Q3-2025.

VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation - Silver Tiger's El Tigre Project

VRIFY is a platform being used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps.

Access the Silver Tiger Metals Inc. Company Profile on VRIFY at: https://vrify.com

The VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation for Silver Tiger Metals Inc. can be viewed at: https://vrify.com/decks/17174 and on the Corporation's website at: www.silvertigermetals.com.

Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control and Data Verification

The diamond drill core (HQ size) is geologically logged, photographed and marked for sampling. When the sample lengths are determined, the full core is sawn with a diamond blade core saw with one half of the core being bagged and tagged for assay. The remaining half portion is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work.

The sealed and tagged sample bags are transported to the Bureau Veritas facility in Hermosillo, Mexico. Bureau Veritas crushes the samples (Code PRP70-250) and prepares 200-300 gram pulp samples with ninety percent passing Tyler 200 mesh (Code PUL85). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code FA430) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code MA200 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code FA530).

Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and includes the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed Silver Tiger's QA/QC protocols.

Qualified Person

David R. Duncan, P. Geo., V.P. Exploration of the Corporation, is the Qualified Person for Silver Tiger as defined under National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Duncan has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

For further information, please contact:

Devin Devarennes

VP Business Development & Investor Relations

902 233 3656

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT:

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements". All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, resources and reserves, the ability to convert inferred resources to indicated resources, the ability to complete future drilling programs and infill sampling, the ability to extend resource blocks, the similarity of mineralization at El Tigre to Delores, Santa Elena and Chispas, exploration results, and future plans and objectives of Silver Tiger, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "may", "is expected to", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans", "projection", "could", "vision", "goals", "objective" and "outlook" and other similar words. Although Silver Tiger believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, 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 Silver Tiger's expectations include risks and uncertainties related to exploration, development, operations, commodity prices and global financial volatility, risk and uncertainties of operating in a foreign jurisdiction as well as additional risks described from time to time in the filings made by Silver Tiger with securities regulators.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 5, 2025) - Great Pacific Gold Corp. (TSXV: GPAC) (OTCQX: FSXLF) (FSE: V3H) ("Great Pacific Gold," "GPAC," or the "Company") is providing results from the latest three exploration holes (WDG-05, 06 and 07) at the Wild Dog Project ("Wild Dog" or the "Project"), located on the island of New Britain, in the province of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea ("PNG").

The current Phase 1 drill program is designed to test high-priority targets over a 3km strike length within the mineralized corridor with a planned 2,500 metres of diamond drilling across 16 holes. Prior to the start of drilling, the Wild Dog corridor was flown with MobileMT geophysics, which identified a strong conductivity trend extending over 15km in strike and to depths exceeding 1,000 metres (see news release dated May 7, 2025).

Key Highlights from Current Drilling:

WDG-05 and WDG-06 were drilled in the same area as WDG-03 and WDG-04, targeting a follow up intercept with the main Wild Dog vein structure.

WDG-05 intercepted a broad zone of silicification and argillic alteration and the main structure, and: 3.0 meters @ 2.4 g/t AuEq (2.0 g/t Au and 0.30% Cu) from 72.0 meters.

intercepted a broad zone of silicification and argillic alteration and the main structure, and: WDG-06 intercepted the main Wild Dog structure near surface with dark sulphidic quartz with bornite and chalcopyrite yielding: 3.5 meters @ 13.1 g/t AuEq (4.9 g/t Au, 49.1 g/t Ag and 4.87% Cu) from 12.0m ; Including 0.6 meters @ 25.3 g/t AuEq (7.2 g/t Au, 89 g/t Ag and 10.8% Cu ) from 13.7m.

intercepted the main Wild Dog structure near surface with dark sulphidic quartz with bornite and chalcopyrite yielding: WDG-07 was drilled as a step out hole, 250m north of WDG-02 (7.0m @ 11.2 g/t AuEq from 65.0m), in the Northern Sulphide target area, intercepting: 10.0 meters @ 4.0 g/t AuEq (3.38 g/t Au, 12.1 g/t Ag and 0.31% Cu) from 153.0m; Including 5.1 meters @ 6.5 g/t AuEq (5.53 g/t Au, 14.8 g/t Ag and 0.53% Cu) from 153.0m; And 1.2 meters @ 10.5 g/t AuEq (7.3 g/t Au, 105 g/t Ag and 1.28% Cu) from 172.0m; Including 0.7 meters @ 17.5 g/t AuEq (12.0 g/t Au, 178 g/t Ag and 2.18% Cu) from 172.5m.

(7.0m @ 11.2 g/t AuEq from 65.0m), in the Northern Sulphide target area, intercepting: WDG-08 is underway from the same pad as WDG-07 and has intersected the main Wild Dog structure approximately 30m south of the WDG-07 intercept. The mineralized zone intercepted from 150m to 160m contains dark sulphidic quartz bands with massive sulphides of chalcopyrite and bornite (assays pending, see photo below).

"The first results from our Phase 1 drill program at Wild Dog, hole WDG-02, highlighted the high-grade gold-copper potential of the Project with WDG-04 extending the mineralization 200m south. Now, WDG-07 has extended the mineralized system 250m to the north, and the continuity of the system in the Northern Sulphide area is being demonstrated with WDG-08 intersecting the targeted structure ~30 meters south," stated Greg McCunn, CEO. "The executive team has just returned from a site visit to Wild Dog and based on the success to-date, we expect to announce an expansion to the Phase 1 program soon."

A map of the Phase 1 drill program is shown in Figure 1.

Results

To-date, the Company has completed seven drill holes at Wild Dog, with the eighth underway. Details of the drilling are shown in Table 1 with key assay results shown in Table 2.

Table 1: Wild Dog Drill Hole Details (PNG94 UTM coordinates)

Hole ID Easting Northing RL Dip Azi Max

Depth

(m) Status WDG-01 394358.3 9488853.5 945 -50 115 40.1 Abandoned WDG-02 394426.0 9489024.2 900 -53 050 124.6 Completed WDG-03 394384.9 9488926.5 924 -50 053 127.6 Completed WDG-04 394384.8 9488926.5 924 -50 075 120.6 Completed WDG-05 394384.8 9488926.5 924 -50 116 105.9 Completed WDG-06 394428.6 9488923.1 911 -50 352 69.0 Completed WDG-07 394445.5 9489377.0 993 -61 114 201.3 Completed WDG-08 394445.5 9489377.0 993 -57 127 tbd In Progress

Table 2: Wild Dog Drill Hole Key Assay Results

Hole ID From

(m) To

(m) Interval1

(m) Gold

(g/t) Silver

(g/t) Copper

(%) Gold Eq.2

(g/t) WDG-02 (previously announced) 65.0 72.0 7.0 5.5 68.8 3.1 11.2 including 65.0 67.0 2.0 10.7 114.6 2.3 15.6 WDG-03 (previously announced) 102.0 104.3 2.3 1.68 pending 0.07 1.79 including 103.55 104.3 0.75 4.05 pending 0.10 4.2 WDG-04 (previously announced) 62.0 68.0 6.0 8.31 pending 0.21 8.64 including 64.0 68.0 4.0 12.25 pending 0.23 12.6 including 64.0 66.4 2.4 19.76 pending 0.27 20.2 WDG-05 72.0 77.0 5.0 1.32 pending 0.25 1.71 including 72.0 75.0 3.0 1.97 pending 0.31 2.44 WDG-06 12.0 15.5 3.5 4.89 49.1 4.87 13.1 including 13.7 14.3 0.6 7.24 89.0 10.84 25.25 WDG-07 153.0 163.0 10.0 3.38 12.1 0.31 4.0 including 153 158.1 5.1 5.53 14.8 0.53 6.5 WDG-07 172.0 173.2 1.2 7.3 105.1 1.28 10.5 including 172.5 173.2 0.7 12.0 178.0 2.18 17.5

Notes:

Drill highlights presented above are core lengths (true widths are not known at this time). Gold equivalent (AuEq) exploration results are calculated using longer-term commodity prices with a copper price of US$4.50/lb, a silver price of US$27.50/oz and a gold price of US$2,000/oz. No metallurgical testing has been carried out on Wild Dog mineralized samples. For AuEq calculations, recovery assumptions of Au 92.6%, Ag 78.0%, and Cu 94.0% were used based on K92 Mining's stated recovery results in an Updated Definitive Feasibility Study for the Kainantu mine.

WDG-02, WDG-04, WDG-05 and WDG-06 were all drilled in the South-Central Oxide Zone and all intercepted what is considered to be the main Wild Dog vein structure, while WDG-03 drilled in the same area did not intercept the main vein which appears to have been cut off by a late-stage fault, likely displacing the main mineralized vein structure.

WDG-07 was a significant step out, approximately 250m north in the Northern Sulphide Zone. The main Wild Dog vein structure was intercepted here as well, and WDG-08 was drilled from the same pad with the drill rotated to target the mineralized zone approximately 30m south of the WDG-07 intercept. WDG-08 also intercepted the main structure, showing continuity of the mineralization in this area. WDG-09 is planned to be drilled from the same pad, with a drill rotation to target the mineralized zone approximately 30m north of the WDG-07 intercept.

These holes were planned as part of the Phase 1 drill program. Following the success of the first seven holes, the Company is reevaluating the plan and now anticipates expanding the Phase 1 program.

Figure 1: Proposed Phase I drill program at Sinivit, Wild Dog structural corridor.

WDG-07 Geology

Diamond drill hole WDG-07 was collared in weathered and oxidized material which persisted to 19 meters - where there is a sharp contact with strong illite alteration of the volcanic conglomerate. The pervasive illite alteration persisted to 60 meters downhole where it transitioned into propylitic altered conglomerate. The illite cap zone has several structures with fragments of colloform quartz and possible dark sulphidic quartz. The propylitic altered volcanics has occasional quartz and hematite veins.

The main Wild Dog structure was intersected from 152.9m depth and continues to 187.4m. This is a 34.5m zone of intense quartz-sulphide veining and brecciation. While there are higher grade bands within this interval, the entire structure is mineralized with the 34.5m grading 1.77g/t AuEq (1.42 g/t Au, 7.9 g/t Ag and 0.16% Cu).

After the structure, the hole transitioned in propylitic altered volcanic conglomerate and was terminated at 201.3m

WDG-07

Photo of WDG-07 drill core from 159.4 m, showing strongly banded colloform and crustiform quartz with dark sulphides, including visible chalcopyrite and bornite. The outer margins of the vein exhibit grey-white chalcedonic silica with multiple generations of mineralisation overprinting inward from the vein margins.

WDG-08

Photo of WDG-08 drill core at 156 meters showing semi-massive sulphides with visible chalcopyrite and bornite. Assays are pending for this interval, and visual observations should not be considered a proxy for grade.

On behalf of Great Pacific Gold

Greg McCunn, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Callum Spink, the Company's Vice President, Exploration, who is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists, MAIG, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Spink is responsible for the technical content of this news release. Mr. Spink is not independent of the Company.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QAQC)

The Company adheres to industry best practices for Quality Assurance and Quality Control. Drill core samples were submitted to Intertek Minerals Ltd. in Lae, Papua New Guinea, an ISO 9001-certified laboratory. Samples were securely sealed in poly-weave bags with single-use tie-locks to maintain chain of custody. Analytical testing was completed using fire assay with additional multi-element MS48 analysis underway.

Diamond drill holes WDG-05, WDG-06 and WDG-07 were drilled using PQ diameter core. Certified reference materials (standards) and blanks were inserted into the sample stream in accordance with industry-standard protocols. Blanks were routinely inserted after high-grade intervals, and certified standards were included at a frequency of at least 5%. All assay batches received to date have passed QAQC review and fall within acceptable tolerance limits. Core recoveries for all holes were within acceptable ranges, with sampling procedures carefully managed in intervals where ground conditions were variable or fragile. SPT (Split Tube) drilling was required in WDG-06 to assist recovery through broken ground zones. Additional lab check assays also passed.

About Great Pacific Gold

Great Pacific Gold has a portfolio of exploration-stage projects in Papua New Guinea ("PNG"). The Company is focused on developing gold-copper resources from its highly prospective land packages. Its core projects include:

Kesar Project: located in the Eastern Highlands province of PNG and contiguous with the mine tenements of K92 Mining Inc. ("K92"), the Kesar Project is a greenfield exploration project with several high-priority targets in close proximity to the property boundary with K92. Multiple epithermal veins at Kesar are on strike and have the same orientation as key K92 deposits, such as Kora. Exploration work to date by the Company at the Kesar Project has shown that these veins have high grades of gold present in outcrop and very elevated gold in soil grades, coincident with aeromagnetic highs. The Company conducted a diamond drill program on key target areas at the Kesar Project from November 2024 to May 2025.

Wild Dog Project: located in the East New Britain province of PNG, the Wild Dog Project is a brownfield exploration project with a history of small-scale gold mining. The Wild Dog Project contains numerous epithermal and porphyry hydrothermal-magmatic targets evidenced by previous exploration and operations. The Company completed a road refurbishment in August 2024 and baseline environmental work in Q4 2024. In Q1 2025, the Company began preparing for a drilling program with camp and infrastructure being established, airborne geophysics (MobileMT) survey completed and a geological team in place. A first phase of diamond drilling is underway on the property.

Arau Project: located in the Eastern Highlands province of PNG, the Arau Project contains the highly prospective Mt. Victor exploration target with potential for a high sulphidation epithermal gold-base metal deposit. A Phase 1 Reverse Circulation drilling program was completed at Mt. Victor in August 2024, with encouraging results. The Arau Project includes the Elandora licence, which also contains various epithermal and copper-gold porphyry targets.

The Company also holds the Tinga Valley Project in PNG.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Great Pacific Gold cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Great Pacific Gold's limited operating history, its exploration and development activities on its mineral properties and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Great Pacific Gold does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

Mineralization at the properties held by K92 Mining is not necessarily indicative of mineralization at the Kesar Project.

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.
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - AVANTI GOLD CORP. (CSE: AGC) (FSE: X37) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has appointed David Renner as a Director of the Board of the Company. David holds an MSc in Geotechnical Engineering, a mining executive with over 30 years of international experience in the mining sector including operations leadership, management and project development for major multinational mining companies as well as junior mining companies. David has significant experience and a proven track record in strategy formulation and execution, corporate governance and ESG integration and significant experience in several geographical locations within Africa.

"We are delighted to welcome David to the Board of Avanti. David brings with him invaluable experience and knowledge of the African mining industry especially in management of large scale mine development and production and will make a significant contribution to the company's future growth," said Sir Sam Jonah, Chairman of the Board of Avanti Gold.

About David Renner

Mr. Renner has extensive experience in the mining sector, particularly in Africa including Ghana, Mali and Tanzania where he was the project manager of the large scale Geita gold project of Ashanti Goldfields. Earlier in his career, David held senior executive roles with Ashanti Goldfields Ltd including Managing Director of the AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in Ghana and Managing Director of Semos, Sadiola and Yatela Gold Mines in Mali.

He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Civil Engineering from the University of Science & Technology , Kumasi, Ghana, a Master's in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and an MBA for the University of the Witwatersrand, Republic of South Africa. Mr. Renner is a member of the Ghana Institution of Engineers.

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.

Qualified Person

Ephraim Masibhera, a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Historical information presented herein should not be relied upon as it has not been verified by the Company's Qualified Person.

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 news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Avanti's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Another Strong Quarter with Record Revenues and EBITDA; San Bartolome Financial Metrics Revised Upward

(All amounts in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated)

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - Andean Precious Metals Corp. (TSX: APM) (OTCQX: ANPMF) ("Andean" or the "Company") is pleased to report its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. This news release should be read together with Andean's management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") and condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 (the "Financial Statements") which are available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

Second Quarter 2025 Highlights:

Consolidated revenue of $73.7 million from sales at an average realized gold price of $3,316/oz 1 and an average realized silver price of $34.36/oz 1 for Q2 2025 versus consolidated revenue of $69.8 million from sales at an average realized gold price of $2,305/oz and an average realized silver price of $27.80/oz for Q2 2024.

Consolidated Q2 2025 production of 24,341 gold equivalent ounces.

Gross operating income of $29.4 million for Q2 2025 versus $11.7 million for Q2 2024, mainly due to higher average realized gold and silver prices and lower operating costs at San Bartolome and Golden Queen.

Income from operations of $24.5 million for Q2 2025 versus income from operations of $9.8 million for Q2 2024, mainly due to higher gross operating income partially offset by higher exploration and evaluation expenditures.

Adjusted EBITDA 2 of $28.9 million for Q2 2025 compared to adjusted EBITDA of $17.2 million for Q2 2024.

Net income and net income per share of $17.4 million and $0.12 (diluted basis), respectively for Q2 2025, net income and net income per share of $9.4 million and $0.06 (diluted basis) for Q2 2024.

The Company ended Q2 2025 with $87.3 million in liquid assets as compared to $72.0 million in liquid assets at the end of Q2 2024.

The Company strengthened its balance sheet with $320.9 million in total assets as compared to $315.1 million in total assets at the end of Q4 2024, and $139.4 million in total liabilities at the end of Q2 2025 as compared to $164.1 million at the end of Q4 2024. The improved financial position is attributed to cash-flow generation (with a portion converted to marketable securities), additions to working capital, and paydown of the Company's revolving credit facilities.

During Q2 2025, the Company paid down its existing revolving credit facilities to $nil.

The Company is pleased to favourably update its 2025 San Bartolome financial metrics as well as to reaffirm its 2025 Production, CAPEX, and Golden Queen Guidance.

Golden Queen Results:

Golden Queen produced 12,213 gold equivalent ounces in Q2 2025 versus 16,986 gold equivalent ounces in Q2 2024.

Golden Queen OCC1 of $1,717/oz and AISC1 of $2,245/oz for Q2 2025 versus OCC of $1,471/oz and AISC of $1,752/oz for Q2 2024.

San Bartolome Results:

San Bartolome produced 12,128 gold equivalent ounces in Q2 2025 versus 12,795 gold equivalent ounces in Q2 2024.

Cash Gross Operating Margin ("CGOM")1 of $13.89 per silver equivalent ounce sold and a Gross Margin Ratio ("GMR")1 of 45.89% for Q2 2025, versus a CGOM of $5.03 per silver equivalent ounce sold and a GMR of 20.80% for Q2 2024.

Corporate Updates:

Alberto Morales, Executive Chairman and CEO stated: "Q2 was another strong quarter for Andean, marked by record revenue, and robust EBITDA.

Operationally, San Bartolome delivered improved margins, supported by strong silver prices and steady cost control, enabling us to favourably revise our 2025 guidance for CGOM and GMR. As previously announced, the Company signed a 7 million tonne purchase agreement with state-owned company COMIBOL. We continue to make progress developing this project where we anticipate first ore in the second half of 2026. The agreement provides additional prospective oxide deposits that will increase ore sourcing for years to come and ultimately leverage processing capacity which is currently under utilized.

Golden Queen remains on track to meet its production and cost guidance, with production weighted to the second half of the year as planned. We are also reaffirming our 2025 production and capital expenditure guidance for both operations. The exploration results released in May at Golden Queen are encouraging, and our 2025-2026 exploration program is underway to extend mine life and grow resources.

With a stronger balance sheet, solid free cash flow, and a clear growth strategy, Andean is well positioned to continue creating long-term value for shareholders."

OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Gold ounces (Au, Oz) Produced 11,945 15,309 23,024 25,742 Sold 11,403 15,679 22.227 25,971 Average realized gold price ($/oz) 1 3,316 2,305 3,013 2,213 Silver ounces (Ag, K-Oz) Produced 1,116 1,208 2.041 2,128 Sold 1,046 1,210 2.074 2,129 Average realized silver price ($/oz) 1 34.36 27.80 33.14 26.00 Gold equivalent ounces (Au Eq, Oz) 2 Produced 24,341 29,867 45,702 50,792 Sold 23,024 30,262 45,275 51,027 Golden Queen OCC ($ / Gold Ounces Sold)1 3 1,717 1,471 1,593 1,586 AISC ($ / Gold Ounces Sold) 1 2,245 1,752 2,229 1,825 San Bartolome CGOM ($ / Silver Equivalent Ounces Sold)1 13.89 5.03 12.88 2.50 GMR / Silver Equivalent Ounces Sold (%)1 3 45.89 20.80 44.08 12.12 1 Average realized gold price, average realized silver price, OCC, AISC, CGOM, and GMR are measures of financial performance with no prescribed definition under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Refer to the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures, Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures" section of this release for further detail, including a reconciliation of these metrics to the financial statements.

2 Beginning in 2025, gold equivalent ounces of silver produced or sold in a quarter are computed using a consistent ratio of silver price to the gold price and multiplying this ratio by silver ounces produced or sold during that quarter. The Company is using a conversion factor of 90 using a price assumption of $2,500 per ounce of gold and $27.78 per ounce of silver.

3 Beginning in 2025 with impact on prior-year comparative periods, the Company reclassed mine-site general and administrative expenses to cost of sales which has a corresponding impact on OCC, GMR, and gross operating income.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 (In thousands of US dollars, except for net income per share metrics) Revenue 73,739 69,799 135,717 112,849 Gross operating income1 29,381 11,677 52,404 11,989 Income from operations 24,538 9,777 43,460 8,158 Net income 17,413 9,385 32,021 9,309 Net income per share -Basic 0.12 0.06 0.22 0.06 -Diluted 0.12 0.06 0.21 0.06 Adjusted EBITDA2 28,895 17,176 50,833 18,187 Capital expenditures 8,200 5,379 17,596 9,207 Free cash flow2 12,265 8,150 10,727 59 Cash and cash equivalents 36,073 47,049 36,073 47,049 Liquid assets1 87,293 71,960 87,293 71,960 1 Beginning in 2025 with impact on prior-year comparative periods, the Company reclassed mine-site general and administrative expenses to cost of sales which has a corresponding impact on OCC, GMR, and gross operating income.

2 Free cash flow, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Liquid Assets are measures of financial performance with no prescribed definition under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Refer to the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures, Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures" section of this news release for further detail, including a reconciliation of these metrics to the financial statements.

The Company is pleased to revise, on a favourable basis, the cost guidance for San Bartolome for CGOM and GMR. The CGOM range guidance increases from a range of $6.50 - $8.40 to $8.00 - $13.00, and the GMR range guidance increases from 29 - 36% to 33% - 45%. The Company continues to see favorable production costs, primarily due to favourable foreign exchange rates, and continued elevated realized spot silver prices which are expected to continue through to the end of 2025.

Given our strong cash position, the Company took the strategic decision to fully repay all outstanding amounts under its revolving credit facilities during Q2. The $25 million facility remains fully available, providing additional financial flexibility if required.

ORIGINAL

GUIDANCE REVISED GUIDANCE Golden Queen OCC ($ / Au Oz Sold)

AISC ($ / Au Oz Sold) $ 1,500 - $ 1,800

$ 1,950 - $ 2,150 $ 1,500 - $ 1,800

$ 1,950 - $ 2,150 San Bartolome CGOM ($ / AgEq Oz Sold)

GMR / AgEq Oz Sold (%) $ 6.50 - $8.40

29 % - 36 % $ 8.00 - 13.00

35 % - 45 %

Production Guidance

The Company reaffirms its 2025 annual gold and silver production guidance for Golden Queen and San Bartolome:

Gold Production

(Thousand Ounces) Silver Production

(Million Ounces) Gold Equivalent Production2

(Thousand Ounces) Golden Queen

San Bartolome 50.0 - 55.0

1.8 - 2.2 0.2 - 0.5

4.4 - 4.9 52.2 - 60.6

50.7 - 56.6 Total 51.8 - 57.2 4.6 - 5.4 102.9 - 117.2

Q2 2025 Conference Call and Webcast

Wednesday, August 13, at 9:00 AM ET

Participants may listen to the webcast by registering via the following link https://www.gowebcasting.com/14129

Participants may also listen to the conference call by calling North American toll free 1-833-821-0164, or 1-647-846-2305 outside the U.S. or Canada.

An archived replay of the webcast will be available for 90 days at: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14129 or the Company website at www.andeanpm.com.

About Andean Precious Metals

Andean is a growing precious metals producer focused on expanding into top-tier jurisdictions in the Americas. The Company owns and operates the San Bartolome processing facility in Potosi, Bolivia and the Golden Queen mine in Kern County, California, and is well-funded to act on future growth opportunities. Andean's leadership team is committed to creating value; fostering safe, sustainable and responsible operations; and achieving our ambition to be a multi-asset, mid-tier precious metals producer.

Qualified Person Statement

The scientific and technical content disclosed in this news release was reviewed and approved by Donald J. Birak, Independent Consulting Geologist to the Company, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards for Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Registered Member, Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME), Fellow, Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM).

For more information, please contact:

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and information in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which we refer to collectively as "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements and information regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that are based upon assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action. All statements and information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "seek", "expect", "anticipate", "budget", "plan", "estimate", "continue", "forecast", "intend", "believe", "predict", "potential", "target", "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements and information regarding the Company's production guidance and expectations for CAPEX and the Company's expectations regarding production costs, exchange rates and spot prices. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including, but not limited to: the Company's ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the Company's ability to secure and to meet obligations under property and option agreements and other material agreements; the timely receipt of required approvals and permits; that there is no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; that contracted parties provide goods or services in a timely manner; that no unusual geological or technical problems occur; that plant and equipment function as anticipated and that there is no material adverse change in the price of silver, price of gold, costs associated with production or recovery. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained herein. Some of the risks and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this release include, but are not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits and conclusions of economic evaluations; results of initial feasibility, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks relating to possible variations in reserves, resources, grade, planned mining dilution and ore loss, or recovery rates and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; mining and development risks, including risks related to accidents, equipment breakdowns, labour disputes (including work stoppages and strikes) or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in exploration and development; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; risks related to commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; the uncertainty of profitability based upon the cyclical nature of the industry in which the Company operates; risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms or delays in obtaining governmental or local community approvals or in the completion of development or construction activities; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the uncertain global economic environment; and other factors contained in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's MD&A for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, you are cautioned that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other factors that the Company has not identified. Furthermore, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES, RATIOS, AND SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL MEASURES

This news release includes "specified financial measures" within the meaning of National Instrument 52-112 - Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure ("NI 52-112"), specifically the non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios and supplementary financial measures described below. Management believes that the use of these measures assists analysts, investors and other stakeholders of the Company in understanding the costs associated with producing silver and gold, understanding the economics of silver and gold mining, assessing operating performance, the Company's ability to generate free cash flow from current operations, and for planning and forecasting of future periods.

The specified financial measures used in this news release do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers, even as compared to other issuers who may be applying the World Gold Council ("WGC") guidelines. Accordingly, these measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Operating Cash Costs

OCC includes total production cash costs incurred at the Company's mining operations, which form the basis of the Company's cash costs, less by-product revenue.

Beginning in 2025 with impact on prior-year comparative periods, the Company reclassed mine-site general and administrative expenses to cost of sales which has a corresponding impact on the calculation of OCC.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the OCC per ounce sold on a by-product basis to the Financial Statements:

Golden Queen Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Costs of sales, as reported 21,617 27,100 38,695 47,470 Less: by-product silver credits (2,948 ) (4,390 ) (5,395 ) (6,924 ) Total OCC 18,669 22,710 33,300 40,546 Divided by Au ounces sold 10,871 15,441 20,900 25,563 OCC ($ / Au ounces sold) 1,717 1,471 1,593 1,586

All-in Sustaining Costs

AISC on a by-product basis per ounce is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as AISC on a by-product basis divided by ounces of gold sold. AISC on a by-product basis is a non-GAAP financial measure calculated as the aggregate of production costs as recorded in the consolidated statements of income (loss), refining and transport costs, cash component of sustaining capital expenditures, lease payments related to sustaining assets, corporate general and administrative expenses and accretion expenses. When calculating AISC on a by-product basis, all revenue received from the sale silver at Golden Queen are treated as a reduction of costs incurred. The Company believes that AISC represents the total costs of producing gold from current operations and provides the Company and other stakeholders of the Company with additional information relating to the Company's operational performance and ability to generate cash flow.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the AISC per ounce sold on a by-product basis to the Financial Statements:

Golden Queen Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 OCC, net of by-product credits 18,669 22,710 33,299 40,541 General and administration-site and corporate allocation 2,132 1,036 3,581 1,579 Sustaining capital expenditures 3,488 3,224 9,485 4,333 Accretion for decommissioning liability 114 84 222 195 Total all in sustaining cost 24,403 27,053 46,587 46,648 Divided by Au ounces sold 10,871 15,441 20,900 25,563 AISC ($ / Au ounces sold) 2,245 1,752 2,229 1,825

Cash Gross Operating Margin

CGOM per silver equivalent ounce sold is calculated by subtracting the average cash cost of sale (cost of sales, allocated corporate administrative costs and business unit general and administration cost) per equivalent ounce sold from the average selling price per equivalent ounce. It is a measure of financial performance with no prescribed definition under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the CGOM per ounce to the Financial Statements and the most directly comparable IFRS measure:

San Bartolome Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Costs of sales, as reported 18,739 23,608 37,641 43,366 General and administration-site and corporate allocation 1,914 776 3,535 1,223 Total gross operating costs 20,653 24,384 41,176 44,589 Divided by AgEq ounces sold (koz) 1,007 1,076 2,030 1,902 Gross operating cost per AgEq ounce sold 20.52 22.63 20.29 23.43 Average realized silver price per oz 34.41 27.67 33.16 25.93 CGOM ($ / Silver Equivalent Ounces Sold) 13.89 5.03 12.88 2.50

Gross Margin Ratio

GMR is calculated by subtracting the cost of sale as reported in the income statement from the revenue of equivalent ounces divided by revenue from sales of equivalent ounces. GMR is a measure of financial performance with no prescribed definition under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers.

Beginning in 2025 with impact on prior-year comparative periods, the Company reclassed mine-site general and administrative expenses to cost of sales which has a corresponding impact on the calculation of GMR.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the GMR per ounce to the most directly comparable IFRS measure:

San Bartolome Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Costs of sales, as reported 18,739 23,608 37,641 43,366 Divided by AgEq ounces sold (koz) 1,006 1,077 2,030 1,903 Costs of sales per AgEq oz sold 18.62 21.91 18.55 22.79 Average realized silver price per oz 34.41 27.67 33.16 25.93 GM per AgEq oz sold 15.79 5.75 14.62 3.14 GMR per Silver Equivalent Ounces Sold (%) 45.89 20.80 44.08 12.12

Free Cash Flow

The Company has included free cash flow as a non-GAAP financial measure in this news release. The Company considers net cash provided from operating activities, less capital expenditures on property, plant and equipment, to be a measure that allows the Company and investors to evaluate the ability of the Company to generate cash flow. Accordingly, free cash flow is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The following table provides a reconciliation of free cash flow to the Financial Statements:

Consolidated Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net cash provided from operating activities 20,260 13,006 27,275 8,307 Less: Capital Expenditures on property, plant and equipment (7,995 ) (5,218 ) (16,548 ) (8,610 ) Free cash flow 12,265 7,788 10,727 (303 )

Adjusted EBITDA

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measure calculated by adjusting net income (loss) as recorded in the condensed interim consolidated statements of income (loss) for items not associated with ongoing operations. The Company believes that this generally accepted industry measure allows the evaluation of the results of income-generating capabilities and is useful in making comparisons between periods. This measure adjusts for the impact of items not associated with ongoing operations. Management uses this measure to monitor and plan for the operating performance of the Company in conjunction with other data prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The following table provides a reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the Financial Statements:

Consolidated Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net income 17,413 9,385 32,021 9,309 Add: Income taxes 10,278 6,090 12,427 5,487 Finance costs 1,180 1,624 2,867 3,274 Depreciation and depletion 4,002 7,399 6,977 10,029 EBITDA 32,873 24,498 54,292 28,099 Corporate development expenses 355 - 396 - Other gains (8,743 ) (3,928 ) (13,626 ) (4,223 ) Foreign Exchange loss (gain) 4,410 (3,394 ) 9,771 (5,689 ) Adjusted EBITDA 28,895 17,176 50,833 18,187

Average Realized Gold and Silver Prices Per Ounce

The Company has included average realized prices as a supplementary non-GAAP financial measure in this news release. The Company quantifies average realized price per ounce as revenue per the Statement of Income (loss), bifurcated by gold or silver revenue and divided by ounces of gold or silver sold, respectively. Management uses this measure to monitor sales of silver and gold ounces against the average market silver and gold prices.

The following table provides a reconciliation of average realized prices to the most directly comparable IFRS measure:

Consolidated Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Silver revenue 35,930 33,645 68,747 55,368 Divided by silver sold (k oz) 1,046 1,210 2,074 2,129 Average realized silver price per oz 34.36 27.80 33.14 26.00 Gold revenue 37,809 36,134 66,970 57,481 Divided by gold sold (oz) 11,403 15,679 22,227 25,971 Average realized gold price per oz 3,316 2,305 3,013 2,213

Liquid Assets

The Company believes this non-GAAP financial performance measure provides further transparency and assists analysts, investors, and other stakeholders of the Company in assessing the Company's financial position.

The following table provides a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial metric to the Financial Statements:
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - CopperCorp Resources Inc. (TSXV: CPER) (OTCQB: CPCPF) (FSE: NU0) ("CopperCorp" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Coutts to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Mr. Coutts is a mining executive with over 35 years of global experience in mineral exploration, project development, mine operations, and corporate leadership in both Australia, Canada, and other international jurisdictions.

Most recently, Mr. Coutts served as President and CEO of Noront Resources Ltd., which was acquired by Wyloo Metals in April 2022 for approximately C$650 million following a high-profile bidding contest with BHP. This acquisition centred on Noront's flagship Eagle's Nest Ni-Cu-PGE project in Ontario's Ring of Fire district. After the transaction, Mr. Coutts joined Wyloo's Advisory Board, serving a two-year term.

Career Highlights:

2008-2013 Executive General Manager & Managing Director, Xstrata Nickel Australasia (Perth, Australia): Oversaw three producing nickel mines and two processing plants in Western Australia with over 800 employees, supported a development project in Tanzania, and served on the board of the US$5B Koniambo Nickel Project in New Caledonia.

Australasia (Perth, Australia): Oversaw three producing nickel mines and two processing plants in Western Australia with over 800 employees, supported a development project in Tanzania, and served on the board of the US$5B Koniambo Nickel Project in New Caledonia. 2003-2008 General Manager of the "Brunswick 12" mine , Noranda Mines (now Xstrata) (New Brunswick, Canada): Managed a 10,000 t/day underground Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag operation with 850 employees.

, (now Xstrata) (New Brunswick, Canada): Managed a 10,000 t/day underground Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag operation with 850 employees. 1999-2003 General Superintendent, Falconbridge Raglan mine (Quebec Arctic): Led underground and open-pit nickel sulphide operations with 450 employees.

(Quebec Arctic): Led underground and open-pit nickel sulphide operations with 450 employees. Earlier roles included exploration and operational positions in Canada and Sweden.

Stephen Swatton, President and CEO of CopperCorp, commented:

"We are thrilled to welcome Alan to CopperCorp's board. His proven track record in mine development, operations, and strategic exploration, combined with his experience guiding large-scale battery metals-focused projects, aligns perfectly with our vision. There are strong parallels between Noront's large land package and CopperCorp's position in western Tasmania, and Alan's insight will be invaluable as we advance exploration on our two highly prospective copper-gold belts through 2025 and into 2026."

Alan Coutts, Director, added:

"I am pleased to join the board of CopperCorp. I'm impressed with the quality of the technical team and the outstanding land package that has been assembled in this highly prospective, yet somewhat underappreciated, historical mining district. The insatiable demand for copper over the upcoming decade is well documented and the timing of the Razorback drilling program in the current commodity cycle is optimal. I look forward to getting back to Australia and visiting the property later this year to review the drilling progress.

In my previous position Noront became the subject of a successful bid by Wyloo in 2022, largely driven by the quality, size and prospectivity of the entire land package which contained many of the key battery minerals required for global decarbonization. I am excited to play a part in another initiative with a similar strategy."

In connection with his appointment, CopperCorp has granted Mr. Coutts 400,000 incentive stock options in accordance with the Company's omnibus incentive plan. The options are exercisable at C$0.165 per share for five years, subject to certain vesting provisions and TSX Venture Exchange approval.

About CopperCorp

CopperCorp is focused on the exploration and development of its Skyline and AMC copper-gold-REE projects in western Tasmania, Australia.

For additional information, please visit:

Website: www.coppercorpinc.com

SEDAR+: www.sedarplus.ca

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, British Columbia, August 13th, 2025, - TheNewswire - Rockland Resources Ltd. (the Company or "Rockland) (CSE: RKL) (OTCQB: BERLF) (FSE: GB2) reports that it has received tentative approval for drilling at its Claybank Beryllium Project in Utah, located on State lands five kilometers east of Materion Corp.s (NYSE: MTRN) beryllium mines at Spor Mountain. The Company will be filing the reclamation surety requirement this week in accordance with completion of the NOI. Along with other supporting documentation being completed this week, Rockland will be prepared to start drilling after 30 days notice to the State.

Will Rascan, President of Rockland states We are very pleased with the State of Utah and its proactive approach in working with us to streamline the permitting process for Claybank. Utah was recently ranked the number one jurisdiction in the world for mineral exploration and development by the Fraser Institute, and we look forward to a long and productive relationship with the state."

Claybank  Only five kilometers east of Materions beryllium mines at Spor Mountain and connected by a paved road leading to their processing facility, Claybank is the most strategically positioned of the Rockland properties. Mineralization at Claybank is constrained to an altered rhyolite tuff breccia erupted against a dolomite breccia and above a welded red rhyolite tuff. This geological position is believed to have constrained the hydrothermal fluids that generated bertrandite within the tuff unit. The property saw historical drilling in 1987 with 31 vertical drill holes distributed along strike of the altered tuff (which is similar to the altered tuff being mined at Spor Mountain). Nineteen of the drill holes were closely-spaced and identified a zone of beryllium mineralization roughly 70 meters along strike of the tuff. Historical assays for the mineralization zone reported drillhole intercepts from ~2,500-6,500 ppm Be.(2) In 2014, twenty of 31 historic stockpiles taken from outcrop were analyzed by Materion using a lab-based berylometer(3), with results showing a range from 770-3,216 ppm Be and a weighted average of 1,741 ppm Be(4). Most recently the Company conducted new sampling of all 31 stockpiles and of similar outcrops on the property (see news release, August 6, 2025). These samples were submitted for analysis and details of the sampling and results will be provided in the coming weeks.

President Rascan further comments, Our recent completion of sampling and mapping at Claybank, Beryllium Butte and Meteor Projects in Utah confirm our intent to contribute to the future development and production of this strategic and critical mineral."

Additional Utah Beryllium Projects

Beryllium Butte  Initially referred to as Lithium Butte, Beryllium Butte is in the Honeycomb Hills located 50km west of the Spor Mountain Mine along a well-maintained gravel road. Grab samples collected in 2022 returned highs of 4,810, 4,290, and 1,790 ppm Be from an altered rhyolite tuff breccia (see news release, August 4, 2022). Follow-up channel sampling along strike averaged 1,142 ppm Be over 25.5m, with a higher-grade portion returning 2,423 ppm Be over 6.13m (see news release November 2, 2023). For contrast, Spor Mountain ore is presently mined by the worlds largest producer of beryllium (Materion Corp.  MTRN, NYSE) at an average grade of 2,460 ppm Be(5). Beryllium Butte is permitted for drilling through the US Bureau of Reclamation with the intent to drill later this year.

Meteor  Located 70km west of the Materion pits along a well-maintained gravel road, Meteor is the latest addition to the Rockland beryllium portfolio. This property includes historic mines and prospects focused on tungsten with beryl also reported in zoned pegmatites.(6,7) Most of the world occurrences of beryl are in zoned pegmatites, with larger crystals near the center and smaller crystals at the margins. It also preferentially occurs with tungsten (as scheelite).(3) Additional reconnaissance and sampling is planned at Meteor by the Company, and the State of Utah Department of Natural Resources has also expressed an interest in visiting the property.

Arrangement with MiRESSO

Through its Technical Advisor Mr. Chris Dorn, the Company has an informal arrangement with MiRESSO(8), a fusion-focused company, which is a spin-off from the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) in Japan. Rockland will provide Be-bearing rock samples for testing to MiRESSO (see news release April 11, 2025), who are engaged in the construction of an energy-efficient, low-temperature process for the extraction of beryllium from beryl. MiRESSO has also expressed interest in testing bertrandite for Be recovery, and samples will also be provided to the MiRESSO team.

Arrangement with Mithril Mining

Rockland was fortunate to add Mr. Taylor Sulik as a Technical Advisor just as it acquired the Meteor claims. Mr. Sulik is president of Mithril Mining Corporation(9), which is focused on reshoring extraction and processing of US-based deposits of critical minerals, to include tungsten and beryllium. Through a partnership between Utah-based Hinkinite Resources, Mithril Mining has acquired a tungsten processing facility in Tooele County, Utah that processed 275 tons of tungsten concentrate as recently as 2017. The partnership intends to revamp and rehabilitate the facility as well as expand the scope of critical minerals able to be processed and become a hub-and-spoke processing center for the Great Basin of Utah and Nevada. The facility has power and water in place and is located approximately 40 kilometers north of the Meteor property. Rockland and Mithril have engaged in informal conversations that will provide expertise in processing techniques for beryllium and other critical mineral deposits in the Great Basin.

Qualified Person

The technical contents of this news release have been reviewed by David Taff, CAPG, CPG., a member of the Technical Advisory group to Rockland and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101.

References

1) Fraser Institute News Release: Utah tops global mining survey rankings, Niger ranks last

2) 1988. Topaz Mountain Beryllium Venture Feasibility Report. Inspiration Gold Company. (Rockland has not confirmed the historic data and conclusions contained herein.)

3) Reid, R.R. and Choate, R. 1960. Prospecting for Beryllium in Idaho. Idaho Bureau of Mines and Geology Information Circular No. 7, 24p.

4) Sabey, P., 2015. Mill beryllium analyzer results on Clay Banks Ore Pile Samples. 2p. (Rockland has not confirmed the historic data and conclusions contained herein.)

5) Materion Corporation Annual Report. MATERION-CORP_2024-Final.pdf

6) Mills, S.E. and Rupke, A. 2020. Critical minerals of Utah: Utah Geol. Surv. Circular 129, https://doi.org/10.34191/C-129

7) 1973. K.C. Thomson. Mineral Deposits of the Deep Creek Mountains, Tooele and Juab Counties, Utah. Utah Geological and Mineralogical Survey Bulletin 99, 91p. B-99.pdf

8) https://miresso.co.jp/en/company

9) Mithril Mining Chosen to Present at 47G Critical Minerals Event

10) Lederer, G.W., Foley, N.K. Jaskula, B.W. and Ayuso, R.A. 2016. Beryllium  a critical mineral commodity  resources, production, and supply chain. USGS Fact Sheet, October 2016. FactSheet_2col v 3.5.1

About Beryllium

Beryllium is a high-value, essential, light metal with wide applications in the aerospace, computer, telecommunications, electronics, medical, satellite, clean energy, and defense sectors. Anticipated future needs for beryllium, as well the limitation in having only a single source for US domestic use, places beryllium as both a critical and a strategic mineral according to US government sources(10).

About Rockland Resources Ltd. -- Exploring For Tomorrows Technology

Rockland Resources Ltd. (CSE: RKL) (OTCQB: BERLF) (FSE: GB2) is specializing in beryllium discovery and development at its strategically located Meteor, Beryllium Butte and Claybank projects in the Spor Mountain region of Utah, USA. Spor Mountain is home to Materions (NYSE: MTRN) Spor Mountain Mine, the largest beryllium producer in the world and continuously mined since 1969. In 2024 the Fraser Institute ranked Utah as the prime jurisdiction in the world for mining investment. Rockland has a unique position in its jurisdiction, properties in Spor Mountain, and a recently-assembled team with a great depth in the exploration, recovery and marketing of beryllium.

The Company also holds a 100%-interest in the Cole Gold Mine, located in the western portion of the prolific Red Lake gold district of Ontario.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Michael England, CEO & Director

For further information, please contact:

Mike England

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the Canadian Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect managements current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect managements current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward -looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at WWW.SEDAR.COM).
Ukraine is ready for negotiations on territorial issues, but legal recognition of the territories occupied by the Russian Federation is not under discussion, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

"Ukraine is ready for negotiations on territorial issues, but we proceed from the contact line, it is the starting position. Legal recognition of the territories occupied by Russia is not discussed," Merz said during a press conference on Wednesday.

He stressed that Ukraine must receive reliable security guarantees.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nuclear Fuels Inc. (Nuclear Fuels or the Company) (CSE: NF, OTCQX: NFUNF) and Premier American Uranium Inc. (PUR or Premier American Uranium) (TSXV: PUR, OTCQB: PAUIF) are pleased to announce the voting results of the special meeting of shareholders of Nuclear Fuels (Nuclear Fuels Shareholders) held today.

The previously announced statutory plan of arrangement (the Plan of Arrangement) involving Nuclear Fuels and Premier American Uranium was approved by 95.08% of the votes cast by Nuclear Fuels Shareholders. In addition, the Plan of Arrangement was approved by a simple majority of the votes cast by Nuclear Fuels Shareholders, excluding the votes cast in respect of the Nuclear Fuels shares held by Nuclear Fuels Shareholders that meet the criteria set out in Section 8.1(2)(a)-(d) of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions.

Pursuant to the Plan of Arrangement, each Nuclear Fuels Shareholder will receive 0.33 of a common share of Premier American Uranium for each Nuclear Fuels share held.

Completion of the Plan of Arrangement remains subject to receipt of the final order of the Supreme Court of British Columbia, approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, and certain other closing conditions customary in transactions of this nature. The application for the final order of the Supreme Court of British Columbia is scheduled for August 18, 2025. Subject to satisfaction or waiver of these closing conditions, the parties are targeting to complete the Plan of Arrangement on or about August 25, 2025.

Greg Huffman, Chief Executive Officer of Nuclear Fuels, stated: On behalf of the management team at Nuclear Fuels I am pleased our shareholders strongly supported this transaction with a 95% approval. We stand by our belief that the combination of two strong companies will benefit our shareholders. I look forward to joining Premier American Uranium's Board of Directors and working with Colin Healey to continue pursuing our common goal of advancing new sources of Clean American Uranium.

For further information, please see the Nuclear Fuels Report of Voting Results, which will be filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Nuclear Fuels Inc.

Nuclear Fuels Inc. is a uranium exploration company advancing early stage, district-scale ISR amenable uranium projects towards production in the U.S. Leveraging extensive proprietary historical databases and deep industry expertise, Nuclear Fuels is well-positioned in a sector poised for significant and sustained growth on the back of strong government support. Nuclear Fuels has consolidated the Kaycee district under single-company control for the first time since the early 1980s. With its 2025 drill program in process following successful 2023 and 2024 drilling, the Company aims to expand on historic resources across a 35-mile trend with over 430 miles of mapped roll-fronts defined by 3,800 drill holes. The Companys strategic relationship with enCore Energy Corp., Americas Clean Energy Company, offers a mutually beneficial pathway to production, with enCore owning an equity interest and retaining the right to back-in to 51% ownership in the flagship Kaycee Project in Wyomings prolific Powder River Basin.

About Premier American Uranium Inc.

Premier American Uranium is focused on the consolidation, exploration, and development of uranium projects in the United States, aiming to strengthen domestic energy security and support the transition to clean energy. One of Premiers key strengths is the extensive land holdings in three prominent uranium-producing regions in the United States: the Grants Mineral Belt of New Mexico, the Great Divide Basin of Wyoming and the Uravan Mineral Belt of Colorado.

With current resources and defined resource exploration targets, Premier American Uranium is actively advancing its portfolio through work programs. Premier American Uranium benefits from strong partnerships, with backing from Sachem Cove Partners, IsoEnergy Ltd., Mega Uranium Ltd., and other institutional investors. The Companys distinguished team has extensive experience in uranium exploration, development, permitting, and operations, as well as uranium-focused mergers and acquisitionspositioning Premier American Uranium as a key player in advancing the U.S. uranium sector.

For further information, contact:



The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

None of the securities to be issued pursuant to the Plan of Arrangement have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws, and any securities issuable in the Plan of Arrangement are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable exemptions under state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to activities, events or developments that the Company and Premier American Uranium expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future including, but not limited to, the timing and outcome of the Plan of Arrangement and the timing and outcome or satisfaction of any closing conditions of the Plan of Arrangement. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, or believes or the negative connotation thereof 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 or the negative connotation thereof. Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including assumptions regarding Premier American Uranium following the closing of the Plan of Arrangement, including receipt of required regulatory, court and stock exchange approvals, the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the Plan of Arrangement, and other expectations and assumptions concerning the Plan of Arrangement. Although the assumptions made by the Company and Premier American Uranium in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management of, as applicable, the Company and Premier American Uranium at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual events or results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future events or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others: the failure to obtain regulatory, court or stock exchange approvals in connection with the Plan of Arrangement, material adverse change in the timing of completion and the terms and conditions upon which the Plan of Arrangement is completed, inability to satisfy or waive all conditions to complete the Plan of Arrangement as set out in the arrangement agreement, and failure to complete the Plan of Arrangement.

Although the Company and Premier American Uranium have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company and Premier American Uranium undertake no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - Argenta Silver Corp. (TSXV: AGAG) (OTCQB: AGAGF) (FSE: T1K) ("Argenta" or the "Company") is pleased to report the second batch of assay results from its ongoing 2025 winter diamond drilling program at the 100% owned El Quevar Project in Salta Province, Argentina. These results confirm the presence of multiple high-grade silver intervals within the Yaxtche Deposit, including an exceptionally high-grade intersection, with one sample returning 18,467 g/t Silver over 1.05 meters, surpassing the historic maximum from drill core samples at El Quevar.

Highlights

QVD-412 validates continuity with 1,026 g/t Ag over 40.00 meters, including 2,246 g/t Ag over 15.00 m , which includes 4,423 g/t Ag over 6.00 m , which also includes 18,467 g/t Ag over 1.05 m .*





including , which includes , which also includes .* QVD-413 delivers 414 g/t Ag over 14.35 meters , including 795 g/t Ag over 3.00 m and 466 g/t Ag over 4.00 m , expanding the up-dip potential for the existing resource. *





, including and , expanding the up-dip potential for the existing resource. * QVD-411 was halted at 92 meters due to operational challenges. The target remains in the program and will be re-drilled after other priority areas are completed. *

*Intervals shown are core length. Estimated true widths vary between 60 to 85% of core reported length. Insufficient re-modelling and drill density on new data has been completed to calculate true width at this time.

Joaquin Marias, CEO, President and Director of Argenta Silver Corp. commented: "From a technical standpoint, the extraordinary tenor of the Yaxtche mineralization highlights the strength and scale of the hydrothermal system that formed El Quevar. The success of the up-dip hole QVD-413, along with the project's highest-ever assay, 18,467 g/t silver over 1.05 meters within a broader interval of 1,026 g/t silver over 40.00 meters in QVD-412, validates and reinforces our dual strategy: expanding the known resource while aggressively exploring the vast, untested areas of this high-grade system."

2025 Winter Drilling Program Results  Second Group of Results

Drilling kicked off in late May as part of a fully funded 4,000 m winter campaign designed to confirm known highgrade zones, step out along strike, and test new targets. Assays from the first group of results were announced on July 21, 2025 (see news release from July 21, 2025). The exploration program still on going and results for the remaining holes are expected by early and late September.

Of the three drill holes from the second batch of results with assays in hand:

One infill hole (QVD-412), drilled in a gap of 60 meters with no previous drilling. This drillhole confirms the presence of mineralization on mentioned gap with similar grades as the surrounding drillholes, including one intercept that is an all-time record high for the project These results support infill drilling in upcoming programs for an area that could potentially increase the resource in the future.





These results support infill drilling in upcoming programs for an area that could potentially increase the resource in the future. One resource expansion hole (QVD413), drilled up dip from the existing resource. This drillhole confirms the extension of mineralization up dip from the existing resource in that area, encouraging the company to keep testing in future programs the up-dip section in between the deposit and surface.





This drillhole confirms the extension of mineralization up dip from the existing resource in that area, encouraging the company to keep testing in future programs the up-dip section in between the deposit and surface. One abandoned drillhole (QVD-411) due to operational challenges. This drillhole was halted at 92 meters, before reaching the proposed target. This target remains in the exploration plan and it will be redrilled once the other targets have been drilled.

Highlighted intercepts from QVD-412 and QVD-413* (see Table 1):

QVD-412 [infill drillhole]: 1,026 g/t Ag over 40 meters ; including three highlighted intervals of: 532 g/t Ag over 7.00 m which includes : 1,575 g/t Ag over 2.00 m . 2,246 g/t Ag over 15.00 m which includes: 2,815 g/t Ag over 2.00 m ; 4,423 g/t Ag over 6 m (including 1.05 m with 18,467 g/t Ag ); and 322 g/t Ag over 4.00 m . 347 g/t Ag over 9.00 m which includes: 519 g/t Ag over 3.00 m .





[infill drillhole]: ; including three highlighted intervals of: QVD-413 [up-dip expansion drillhole]: 414 g/t Ag over 14.35 meters ; including three highlighted intervals of: 795 g/t Ag over 3.00 m . 466 g/t Ag over 4.00 m . 399 g/t Ag over 3.00 m .

[up-dip expansion drillhole]: ; including three highlighted intervals of:

*Estimated true widths vary between 60 to 85% of core reported length. Insufficient re-modelling and drill density on new data has been completed to calculate true width at this time.

The mineralization observed in these drillholes aligns closely with findings from the extensive relogging completed during Phase 1 (see press release from May 14, 2025). Silver-bearing minerals occur both within the clasts and matrix of the breccia, and locally within sulfide-rich veinlets, features that are characteristic of a high-sulfidation epithermal system.

Alongside with previously disclosed drillholes from this program (see news release from July 21, 2025), the results also confirm the high-grade, pure silver character of the mineralization and reinforce the need of systematic exploration outside of the existing resource (Yaxtche deposit) when less than 3% of the property has seen modern exploration.

Table 1: 2025 Winter Drilling Program Second Batch of Assays (cut-off-100 g/t Ag)* Hole ID From

[m] To [m] Length*

[m] Ag [g/t] Au

[g/t] Pb

[%] Zn

[%] Cu

[%] End Of

Hole

[m] QVD-412 290.00 330.00 40.00 1026 0.01 0.62 0.07 0.08 394.50 including 290.00 297.00 7.00 532 0.01 1.91 0.12 0.03 which includes 294.00 296.00 2.00 1575 0.02 0.43 0.17 0.10 including 299.00 314.00 15.00 2246 0.01 0.43 0.10 0.17 which includes 299.00 301.00 2.00 2815 0.01 0.28 0.15 0.29 which includes 303.00 309.00 6.00 4423 0.01 0.56 0.17 0.30 which includes 310.00 314.00 4.00 322 0.01 0.44 0.03 0.04 including 321.00 330.00 9.00 347 0.01 0.27 0.03 0.05 which includes 325.00 328.00 3.00 519 0.01 0.33 0.04 0.07 QVD-413 258.65 273.00 14.35 414 0.01 0.28 0.18 0.07 289.50 including 260.00 263.00 3.00 795 0.01 0.40 0.03 0.08 including 264.00 268.00 4.00 466 0.01 0.18 0.02 0.07 including 270.00 273.00 3.00 399 0.01 0.37 0.76 0.10

*Intervals shown are core length. Estimated true widths vary between 60 to 85% of core reported length. Insufficient re-modelling and drill density on new data has been completed to calculate true width at this time.

Exploration Drilling Commences on New Targets

Argenta is also pleased to announce that it has commenced drilling on the exploration targets (Atenea, Andrea, Argenta and Mani-Copan) located outside the main Yaxtche deposit. This represents a significant step forward, as many of these areas have never been drill-tested by previous operators. The exploration targets were selected during Phase 1 (see press release from May 14, 2025) through a rigorous process, combining meticulous fieldwork with detailed geological interpretations of both historical and recent data.

This campaign underscores the company's commitment to systematically and aggressively expanding the property's mining potential, employing a data-driven approach to discovering new mineralized zones.

Webinar

Please join CEO Joaquin Marias for a live webinar on Thursday August 14th at 3pm EST / 12 noon PST. A live Q&A will follow an initial discussion. Register here to secure your spot: https://6ix.com/event/argenta-silver-update

About El Quevar Project

The El Quevar Project is located in Salta, Argentina and spans an area of 57,000 hectares. The property remains underexplored with less than 3 % of the area covered with comprehensive exploration work. The property boasts exceptional infrastructure with over 60 km of internal roads, a fully owned, fully operational camp for 100 workers with multiple support buildings, and a railroad, gas pipeline and service road just 3 km from camp, while a highvoltage transmission line lies approximately 20 km from the exploration area. The robust infrastructure associated with the project provides a cost-effective platform to derisk and accelerate future drilling and development.

The foundational Mineral Resource Estimate of the Yaxtche deposit boasts an indicated mineral resource of 45.3 million ounces of silver from 2.93 million tonnes grading 482 g/t Ag, and an inferred resource of 4.1 million ounces from 0.31 million tonnes grading 417 g/t Ag (1). The mineral resource area remains open at depth and in multiple directions, particularly to the southeast and northwest. One of the objectives of the 2025 Winter Drilling Program is to specifically target and expand these high-grade Yaxtche zones.

The mineralization at the Yaxtche deposit is defined as a silver rich, high to intermediate-sulphidation epithermal system with associated gold. Mineralization is controlled by NW-SE and NE-SW fault structures and is mainly hosted in brecciated zones and dacite domes. Silver minerals at Yaxtche consist of complex silver sulphides, sulphosalts and native silver. These minerals are found within silicified breccias, commonly appearing as veinlets, stockworks, disseminations, and breccia fillings.

QAQC Statement

The Company adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines for exploration-related activities conducted on its property. Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures are overseen by a Qualified Person.

All geochemical sample assay results from Argenta Silver have been independently monitored through a rigorous QA/QC protocol. This protocol includes the regular insertion of blind standard reference materials, blanks, and duplicates.

The logging and sampling of the El Quevar drill core were completed at Argenta's core handling facilities in Salta, Argentina. Drill core was diamond-sawn on-site, and half drill-core samples were securely transported to Alex Stewart Laboratories' (ASI) sample preparation facilities in Jujuy, and forwarded to their facility in Mendoza, Argentina for analysis. The other half-core is retained on site for reference.

Soil samples were prepared by drying and sieving to minus 80 mesh. Rock chip and diamond drill core samples were dried and then underwent 2 stage crushing to 80% passing minus 10 mesh before collecting a 600 gram split that was pulverized to 90% passing -140 mesh. A 200 gram split is sent for analysis and the remaining 400g is archived. All samples were analyzed for gold using a fire assay on a 50-gram sample with an AAS finish, and for 39 elements by 4 acid, ICP-OES on a 0.2-gram sample. Soils were also analyzed for mercury using cold vapor AA on a 0.2-gram. Overlimit silver was determined by a 50-gram fire assay with a gravimetric finish and over limit lead, zinc and copper were determined by ICP_OES using a mixture of highly oxidizing acids on a 0.2-gram sample.

Qualified Person

Rob van Egmond, P.Geo., a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Rob van Egmond, P.Geo. has visited the El Quevar Project and is not independent of the Company.

(1) Refer to NI43-101 technical report with effective date of September 30, 2024, titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Mineral Resource Estimate of the El Quevar Project Salta Province, Argentina", posted on www.SEDAR.com under Argenta Silver Corp.

About Argenta Silver Corp.

Argenta Silver Corp. is a silver exploration company committed to (or- "focused on") advancing projects that support the global energy transition. Our mission is to create sustainable, long-term value for shareholders by acquiring and developing high-potential silver assets in mining-friendly jurisdictions across Latin America. Led by an experienced management team with deep expertise in exploration, finance, and project development, Argenta emphasizes responsible mining practices and is well-positioned to meet the rising demand for silver  a critical metal in renewable energy and emerging technologies.

On behalf of Argenta Silver Corp.

"Joaquin Marias"

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.

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information as defined by applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties, as detailed in the Company's disclosure. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements except as required by law.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements and information herein contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements or information include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to: the El Quevar project; potential for resource expansion and significantly larger mineralization beyond the current resource; further results from on-going exploration and evaluation of assays.

Although management of the Company believe that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements and 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, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. These risk factors include, but are not limited to: exploration and development of the El Quevar project may not result in any commercially successful outcome for the Company; risks associated with the business of the Company; business and economic conditions in the mining industry generally; changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets; changes in laws (including regulations respecting mining concessions); and other risk factors as detailed from time to time. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Golcap Resources Corp. (CSE: GCP) (the "Company" or "Golcap") is pleased to announce the acquisition of the Vallan Vanadium-Titanium Project in the Manicouagan region of Quebec.

Sampling conducted by the Quebec Government in 2004, over an area of geophysical magnetic highs has confirmed significant concentrations of vanadium (VO), titanium (TiO), iron (FeO), and phosphorus (PO). A total of 12 samples were taken across the site, yielding the following analyses:

VO: 0.04% to 0.52%

TiO: 3.25% to 19.3%

FeO: 11.98% to 60.14%

PO: 0.01% to 5.69%

The mineralized zone was initially discovered through prospecting in 1964. However, the precise morphology, dimensions, and orientation of the mineralization remain undetermined. The mineralization is disseminated and hosted within a gabbroic anorthosite, encased by anorthosite of the Vallant Anorthosite Suite.

Mineralization and Grade

The Vallan Project consists of 81 claims, covering 4,508 hectares. The mineralization discovered to date primarily consists of disseminated magnetite and ilmenite. No massive ore zones or lenses have been identified to date. Notably, four drill holes yielded a total of 171 metres of core, with 73 metres (43%) intersecting iron-bearing mineralization. However, due to limited sample analyses, these grades may not be fully representative of the overall mineralization. Vanadium was not analyzed from the drill core samples at the time.

Geological Context and Exploration Potential

The mineralization at Vallan is associated with mafic intrusions, suggesting a magmatic origin. Structurally, the mineralization is concordant with local stratification, but further geological investigation is needed to determine its full extent and potential economic significance.

This confirmation of high-grade vanadium, titanium, iron and phosphorus mineralization underscores the property's exploration potential and its strategic importance for future development. Additional exploration work, including detailed geological mapping, geophysics and further drilling, will be required to better define the deposit and assess its commercial viability.

Why Vanadium and Titanium

The incredible growth of renewable energy is causing a surge in long-duration energy storage solutions, and thus a surge in the demand for vanadium redox flow batteries. Vanadium is a critical metal, with 80% produced in China and Russia. Titanium is also a critical metal, with significant demand from aerospace and defence sectors, and titanium supply is also dominated by China. Exploring for these metals in an excellent jurisdiction like Quebec is one way Golcap can build significant shareholder value.

Qualified Person

Wayne Holmstead, P.Geo (OGQ), a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed the data disclosed in this news release, and has otherwise reviewed and approved this technical information in this news release on behalf of Golcap.

Terms of Accquisition

Golcap has entered into an option to acquire 100% of the Vallan Project by completing exploration expenditures totalling $350,000 over 2 years. Within the 2-year expenditure period, Golcap can elect to purchase the Vallan Project by issuing 5,000,000 shares of the Company and granting a 2% NSR on the project.

Appointment of Director

Golcap is also pleased to announce the appointment of Garry Stock as Director.

Mr. Stock has worked in resources, cleantech, ag, investment and tech for the past 24 years, helping build companies from inception to up to $500 million in market capitalization. He has been involved in $400 million in equity financings and has acquired/developed assets across most commodities within Canadian, US, Australian and British securities jurisdictions, serving in executive and financial roles, most recently as independent Director and Chair of Compensation Committee for Squire Mining, (now Taal Distributed Information Technologies). Garry is currently an independent Director of Mineral Road Discovery Ltd.

Granting of Stock Options

The Company is pleased to announce is has granted options to Directors, Officers and Consultants a total of 1.5 million stock options, exercisable at $0.15 for a period of 2 years, with various vesting periods.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release.
Undrilled silver-rich and polymetallic occurrences are dispersed across a 55 km highly prospective east-west corridor

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Silver47 Exploration Corp. (TSXV: AGA) (OTCQB: AAGAF) ("Silver47" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a review of drill targeting across the highly-prospective Bonnifield District at the Red Mountain project near Fairbanks, Alaska (the "Red Mountain Project").

Highlights:

Strong Alaskan High-Grade Resource Base: The Red Mountain Project already hosts an inferred mineral resource estimate of 15.6Mt at 336 g/t AgEq* totaling 168.6 million silver equivalent ounces comprised of two resource zones, Dry Creek and West Tundra Flats.

Leveraging Past Work: A database of historic geochemical and geophysical data, including 2,543 rock samples, 7,948 soil samples and 15,862 XRF soil samples has revealed a series of new targets outside the current resource zones that the Company is developing for drilling in 2026.

High Prospectivity and Unique Discovery Potential: Ongoing compilation highlights at least 35 mineralized prospects across the Red Mountain Project covering a 55 km trend many of which are undrilled or represent preliminary drilled discoveries open to expansion.

U.S. Silver and Critical Metal Focus: Multiple zones of high-grade surface mineralization marked by samples collected by a previous operator representing significant polymetallic upside are highlighted by grades of:

1,295 g/t silver at the Galleon target

3.8 g/t gold at the Horseshoe target

16.2% copper at the Kiwi target

32% zinc at the Anderson Mountain target

20% lead at the Jack Frost target

4,850 g/t antimony at the Bib target

149 g/t gallium northeast of the West Tundra Flats Deposit

98 g/t indium at the Jack Frost target

0.13% tin at the Sheep Creek target

Drilling On-Going with Assays Pending: Nine holes have been completed at the Dry Creek and West Tundra Flats deposits where zones of massive, semi-massive and disseminated sulfides have been intersected in step-out and infill holes.

Galen McNamara, CEO, stated: "Our Red Mountain Project in Alaska is emerging as a premier silver and critical metals asset in the U.S. By leveraging extensive historic data, we've identified dozens of high-potential targets along broadly mineralized trends. The prospectivity of these targets was first identified by past operators, and I agree; the data suggest the likely presence of additional undiscovered and potentially giant VMS deposits on the project. I am unaware of any other domestic mineral projects with similar polymetallic discovery potential. In addition, ongoing drilling at Dry Creek and West Tundra Flats continues to intersect promising sulfide zones, with assays pending, positioning Red Mountain to deliver significant value and strengthen domestic critical mineral supply chains in the future."

*Table 1: Combined Open Pit and Underground Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate for the Red Mountain Project, Alaska

The 2024 Red Mountain MRE was estimated and classified in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") "Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines" dated November 29, 2019, and the CIM "Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves" dated May 10, 2014. Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo. of APEX Geoscience Ltd., a QP as defined by NI 43-101, is responsible for completing the 2024 Mineral Resource Estimate, effective January 12, 2024. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves have not demonstrated economic viability. No mineral reserves have been calculated for Red Mountain. There is no guarantee that any part of the mineral resources discussed herein will be converted to a mineral reserve in the future. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, market, or other relevant factors. The quantity and grade of reported Inferred Resources is uncertain, and there has not been sufficient work to define the Inferred Mineral Resource as an Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource. It is reasonably expected that most of the Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Totals may not sum due to rounding. Reported grades are undiluted. A standard density of 2.94 g/cm is assumed for mineralized material and waste rock. Overburden density is set at 1.8 g/cm. For mineralized material blocks with iron assays close enough to estimate an iron value for the block, density is calculated using the formula: density (g/cm) = 0.0553 * Fe (%) + 2.5426. Metal prices are US$2,750/tonne Zn, US$2,100/tonne Pb, US$8,880/tonne Cu, US$1,850/oz Au, and US$23/oz Ag.

Figure 1. Plan Map of Red Mountain Project.

Figure 2. Mineralized core from WT25-38 at the West Tundra Flat Deposit showing disseminated, semi-massive and massive sulfides consisting of pyrite, pyrrhotite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite (172.65 to 180.5m downhole).

The Targets

Priority volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) exploration targets at the Red Mountain Project are dispersed across the highly prospective Bonnifield mining district. The targets vary from zinc-rich to copper-rich and many have associated high-grade silver and local gold mineralization.

Four main target trends are defined and include: Dry Creek Syncline, Keevy Trend, Last Chance Corridor and Wood River trend (Figure 1). Many of the targets across the Dry Creek Syncline area (Figure 1) were known historically, however, numerous high-priority targets across the Keevy and Last Chance areas were more recently identified through regional stream sediment, ridge-spur soil and rock geochemical surveys and project-wide EM geophysical surveys completed by a past project operator. Of the 30 known targets as well as other un-explored EM targets, only eleven targets have been drill tested, five of those with less than three holes each.

The Dry Creek Syncline: The best known targets associated with the Dry Creek Syncline are the Dry Creek and WTF deposits (combined inferred mineral resource of 15.6 million tonnes at 7% ZnEq or 335.7 g/t AgEq, totaling 168.6 million silver equivalent ounces*). Previous drilling at Dry Creek have returned high-grade intercepts, such as 22.3 m at 601 g/t AgEq (150.6 g/t Ag, 0.82 g/t Au, 5.86% Zn, 2.60% Pb, 0.13% Cu, DC24-105) from 18.9 m down hole.

VMS targets are located along both limbs of the project-scale, east-west trending Dry Creek syncline where approximately 40 km of prospective VMS stratigraphy (Mystic and Sheep Creek members of the Totatlanika schist) is well exposed (Figure 1). Many targets along the syncline are associated with pronounced EM anomalies and have been mostly defined by stream, soil and rock-chip geochemistry and limited ground geophysical surveys (magnetics and CSAMT). High priority targets across the Dry Creek Syncline area include:

Hunter Target: Massive sulfide mineralization at the Hunter target, 5.8 km west of Dry Creek, has been traced for over 500 m within a carbonaceous phyllite that is traced for over 1 km. Rock chip sampling of the discovery Hunter outcrop returned assays up to 616 g/t Ag, 18.6% Zn, 5.4% Pb, 2.5% Cu, and 0.33 g/t Au. Six drill holes in 2018, 2019 and 2021 successfully tested the dip-extent of the massive sulfide lens highlighted by 1.4m of 17.4% Zn, 3.9% Pb, 1.6% Cu, 90 g/t Ag and 0.23 g/t Au (HR18-01) 2 and 1.8m of 13.8% Zn, 3.1% Pb, 56 g/t Ag, 0.2 g/t Au and 0.9% Cu (HR18-02) 2 . VMS-related mineralization at Hunter is therefore open in all directions and further drilling testing of the strike- and dip-extent is warranted.

Glacier Creek: The Glacier Creek suite of targets are approximately 12.3 km northwest of Dry Creek. The ~6 km long target area is primarily underlain by the highly-prospective Totatlanika schists and is defined by numerous EM anomalies and broad km-scale colour anomalies and associated sericite alteration. Rock-chip sampling is sparce and soil-surveys have only been ridge-spur, however, numerous multi-element geochemical anomalies have been defined together with barium enrichment in many samples. Seven holes were drilled across two programs covering a 2 km trend in 1998 and 2019. Additional geological mapping, soil and rock geochemical surveys are clearly warranted to advance the known targets and to define drill targets.

Galleon Target: The Galleon target is approximately 9.0 km north of Dry Creek. Similar to Glacier Creek, the Galleon target is primarily underlain by the Totatlanika schist where numerous showings of VMS-style, high-Pb-Zn-Cu massive sulfide mineralization have been discovered. Importantly, numerous samples from Galleon returned elevated to high-grade Ag and Au mineralization. Rock samples with up to 1,265 g/t Ag, 2.18 g/t Au, 2.4% Zn, 1.656% Pb and 1.7% Cu have been reported. Additional geological mapping, soil and rock geochemical surveys are clearly warranted to advance the known targets, followed by drill testing.

The Keevy Trend: The Keevy VMS trend consists of numerous high-grade VMS targets dispersed along 25 km of favorable Keevy Peak Formation and Healy Schist stratigraphy south of the Dry Creek Syncline area (Figure 1). From east to west the targets comprise Lowrider, Easy Ivan, Jack Frost, Yogi, Kiwi, and Yeti with multiple unexplored EM targets west of Yeti (Figure 1). These targets have massive sulfide occurrences comprised of sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite with other key VMS indicators such as chert, black barite and broad zones of sericite alteration and strongly anomalous base-metal soil anomalies. Highlights and key indicators of VMS potential from the Keevy VMS trend include:

Kiwi: up to 316 g/t Ag, 16.2% Cu, 10.3% Zn, 1.7% Pb, and 2.8 g/t Au in rock samples

Easy Ivan: up to 87.1 g/t Ag, 6.0% Zn, 12.3% Pb, and 0.45% Cu in rock samples

Jack Frost: up to 285 g/t Ag, 14.0% Zn, 20.0% Pb, and 1.1% Cu in rock samples

Yeti: black barite with elevated silver and strong base metal soil anomalism

Besides sparce ridge-spur and local grid soil surveys, prospecting and rock sampling many of the targets are under-explored and represent priority targets for follow-up. Geological mapping and infill soil geochemical surveys are planned to advance many of the targets along the highly prospective Keevy Trend.

Last Chance Corridor: The Last Chance area of prospective VMS targets is centered approximately 40 km west of the Dry Creek deposit (Figure 1). These targets may represent the western extent of the Keevy Trend. Seven targets have been defined covering a prospective corridor of 15 km primarily underlain by the Healy Schist and include from east to west; Copper Creek, Grapple, Bib West, Bullseye, Ringer, Sheep Creek and Horseshoe. The VMS lenses exposed in outcrop consist of pyrrhotite, pyrite and/or sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite. Only the Sheep Creek target has been drill tested (1979 program by US Borax1) and all targets are primarily defined based on rock, soil and stream sediment anomalism and airborne and local ground-based geophysical methods. Highlights from previous rock-chip sampling include:

Horseshoe: up to 8.3% Zn, 4.6% Pb, 0.76% Cu, 44 g/t Ag and 3.8 g/t Au in rock samples

Bib: up to 7.3% Zn, 5.1% Pb, 0.3% Cu, 60 g/t Ag and 0.47 g/t Au in rock samples

Grapple: up to 5.1% Zn, 13.2% Pb, 0.79% Cu and 139 g/t Ag in rock samples

Ringer: up to 0.72% Cu, 27 g/t Ag and 1.0 g/t Au in rocks samples

Sheep Creek: up to 306 g/t Ag, 4.3% Zn, 3.98% Pb, and 0.18% Cu in rock samples and 24.5 m of 1.3% Zn,1.0% Pb and 0.127% Sn in historical drilling1

Follow-up geological mapping, infill soil geochemical surveys and additional higher-resolution magnetic surveys are planned to further advance many of the Last Chance targets.

Wood River Trend: Four high-grade VMS targets cover a 24 km trend on the southern limb of a district-scale anticlinal fold that runs parallel to the Dry Creek syncline (Figure 1). The targets are hosted in prospective Healy and Wood River Assemblage schists which host VMS-related mineralization elsewhere in the Bonnifield district. From east to west the targets include West Fork, Cirque, Virginia Creek and Anderson Mountain. Select historical rock-chip sampling and select drilling highlights include:

West Fork: up to 3.5% Zn, 2.5% Pb, 1.2% Cu and 73g/t Ag in rock samples

Cirque: up to 487 g/t Ag, 13.2% Zn, 3.8% Pb, 12.4% Cu and 3.7 g/t Au in rock samples

Virginia Creek: historical drilling, 14.8m at 3.3% Zn, 0.8% Pb, 78 g/t Ag, 0.2g/t Au and 0.5% Cu 1 and rock samples up to 2.8% Zn, 0.65% Pb, 74.1 g/t Ag, 1.01 g/t Au and 1.3% Cu

Anderson Mountain: historical drilling, 161 g/t Ag, 0.6 m at 22% Zn, 4.8% Pb and 0.6% Cu1 and up to 151 g/t Ag, 32% Zn, 8.8% Pb and 3.8% Cu in rock samples. The prospective VMS horizon is mapped for over 240 m

Follow-up geological mapping, infill soil geochemical surveys and additional higher-resolution magnetic surveys are warranted to further advance many of the Wood River trend of VMS targets.

Exploration Update

Drilling is ongoing at the Red Mountain Project where nine holes have been completed. Two holes have been completed at Dry Creek and seven holes at WTF. Zones of massive, semi-massive and disseminated sulfide mineralization have been intersected in both infill and step-out holes.

Data Verification

Historical data referenced herein, including but not limited to assay results, drill intercepts, and geological interpretations from previous exploration activities, have been sourced from publicly available records, archived reports, and third-party databases believed to be reliable. However, Silver47 has not independently verified this historical data through resampling, re-assaying, or other confirmatory methods due to the remote locations of the original samples or sites. As such, the Company cautions that this historical information may not conform to current NI 43-101 standards and should not be relied upon.

No new data verification procedures were undertaken specifically for this release beyond a review of available documentation. The Company plans to conduct future verification work, including drilling and sampling, to confirm and update these historical findings as part of ongoing exploration programs.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Galen McNamara, P. Geo., the CEO of the Company and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

References

Raffle, K, Livingston, C., Proenza, Y. and Black, B., 2024, Technical Report on the Red Mountain VMS Property, Bonnifield Mining District, Alaska, USA, NI 43-101 Technical Report, effective date of January 12, 2024, 200 p, sedarplus.ca. Data reported by White Rock Minerals, WRM ASX announcement August 20th, 2018.

About Silver47 Exploration

Silver47 Exploration Corp. is a mineral exploration company, focused on uncovering and developing silver-rich deposits in North America. The Company is creating a leading high-grade US-focused silver developer with a combined resource totaling 236 Moz AgEq at 334 g/t AgEq inferred and 10 Moz at 333 g/t AgEq Indicated. With operations in Alaska, Nevada and New Mexico, Silver47 Exploration is anchored in America's most prolific mining jurisdictions. For detailed information regarding the resource estimates, assumptions, and technical reports, please refer to the NI 43-101 Technical Report and other filings available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company trades on the TSXV under the ticker symbol AGA and OTCQB under the ticker symbol AAGAF.

For more information about the Company, please visit www.silver47.ca and see the Technical Report filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and titled "Technical Report on the Red Mountain VMS Property Bonnifield Mining District, Alaska, USA with an effective date January 12, 2024, and prepared by APEX Geoscience Ltd."

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No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents 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.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "upon" "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the Company's exploration and development activities and plans. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the ability to close the Offering, including the time and sizing thereof, the insider participation in the Offering and receipt of required regulatory approvals; the use of proceeds not being as anticipated; the Company's ability to implement its business strategies; risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; stakeholder engagement; marketing and transportation costs; loss of markets; volatility of commodity prices; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; industry and government regulation; changes in legislation, income tax and regulatory matters; competition; currency and interest rate fluctuations; and the additional risks identified in the Company's financial statements and the accompanying management's discussion and analysis and other public disclosures recently filed under its issuer profile on SEDAR+ and other reports and filings with the TSXV and applicable Canadian securities regulators. The forward-looking information are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
All dollar amounts are in USD unless otherwise indicated and abbreviation M means million.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX/ASX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (Orezone or Company) is pleased to report its operational and financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. The Company will host a conference call and webcast today at 2:00pm PT / 5:00pm ET (August 14, 7:00am AEST) to discuss the results. Details to join the conference call and webcast are provided at the end of this release.

Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

Gold production of 27,548 ounces at an AISC of $1,830 per ounce sold

Revenue of $94.5M from the sale of 28,265 ounces at an average realized price of $3,338 per ounce

Adjusted EBITDA of $45.5M, Adjusted Earnings attributable to Orezone shareholders of $20.6M, and Adjusted Earnings per Share attributable to Orezone shareholders of $0.04

Liquidity of $103.9M at June 30, 2025 with cash of $72.6M and undrawn senior debt of $31.3M

Stage 1 hard rock expansion reached 63% completion and remains on schedule for first gold in Q4-2025. Stage 1 is forecasted to increase overall gold production to 170,000-185,000 ounces in 2026 1 . Click link here for August construction video

Subsequent to quarter end: Completed A$75.0M initial public offering on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and commenced trading under the symbol ORE. Proceeds will accelerate the stage 2 hard rock expansion Board approved construction decision for the stage 2 hard rock expansion. Stage 2 commissioning scheduled for Q4-2026, with overall gold production forecasted to increase to 220,000-250,000 ounces per annum 2



Patrick Downey, President and CEO, commented Q2 marked another solid operating quarter at Bombore, with all production metrics, including grade, recovery, and tonnes processed, inline with plan. This is a testament to the site operating team, who remain focused on operational excellence. During Q2, this included several stage 1 hard rock operational readiness initiatives, including 1) maintaining an elevated mining rate through the onset of the rainy season to advance a number of pits to the hard rock interface, and 2) processing a greater percentage of corresponding transitional material while achieving a mill throughput rate at 20% above nameplate.

The higher realized AISC in Q2 was mainly attributable to external factors including higher royalties, lower grid power availability and unfavourable foreign exchange movements. The higher royalty costs were the result of a record realized gold price of $3,338/oz versus the budgeted $2,600/oz, along with a newly enacted royalty structure that added 1% to the royalty rates. The lower than expected grid power availability that led to more power generation onsite using higher cost diesel, was the result of a fire at a supply line substation, and higher than forecasted seasonal variability, which year over year has materially improved. A steady improvement in grid power has been seen in the past two months with utilization increasing from 50% in Q2, to 76% in July, and a return to >90% in August. The XOF strengthened against the USD by over 7% from Q1 to Q2 which negatively impacted reported costs as the majority of operating expenditures are in the local currency. These three external factors combined are estimated to have added $236 per ounce to the guided AISC per ounce sold in Q2.

Through Q2, the Company made steady progress on its multiple growth initiatives. The construction of the stage 1 hard rock plant remains on schedule and on budget, with first gold on track for Q4-2025. This will mark an important milestone for the Company with overall gold production at Bombore forecasted to increase to 170,000-185,000 ounces in 20263. On the stage 2 hard rock expansion, early progress was made advancing engineering, scheduling and initial procurement, with a Board approved construction decision made subsequent to quarter end. Executing on these growth initiatives over the next 16 months will significantly transform the Company by increasing overall production at Bombore to 220,000-250,000 ounces per annum4. This production growth will be complemented by an ongoing focus on exploration, with the goal of increasing the current resource base to a targeted 7 to 10 million ounces longer term5.

Exploration drilling through H1-2025 was successful on multiple fronts, further underscoring the significant exploration upside to the current stated 5.0 million ounce global resource base at Bombore. Results included 1) extending the North Zone footwall mineralization up to 200m below the current reserve pits along 800m strike length, 2) extending mineralization of the P17S high-grade sub-zone a further 300m down plunge, and 3) identifying multiple broad near-surface strike extensions.

Following several months of hard work, Orezone has commenced trading on the ASX under the ticker ORE. The secondary listing on the ASX has broadened our investor base into the very active Australian mining market, enhancing the Companys capital markets profile and trading liquidity.

________________________

1 Refer to the Companys Prospectus dated July 11, 2025, a copy of which is available on the Companys website. The Company confirms it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the Prospectus and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the forecast gold production targets in the Prospectus continue to apply and have not materially changed.

2 Refer to footnote 1.

3 Refer to footnote 1.

4 Refer to footnote 1.

5 This statement of the Companys goal of increasing the current stated 5 million ounce global resource base to a targeted 7 to 10 million ounces longer term is an aspirational statement, and the Company does not yet have reasonable grounds to believe the statement can be achieved.

Highlights for the Second Quarter and Significant Subsequent Events

(All mine site figures on a 100% basis) Q2-2025 Q2-2024 H1-2025 H1-2024 Operating Performance Gold production oz 27,548 25,524 56,236 55,663 Gold sales oz 28,265 24,937 57,208 56,166 Average realized gold price $/oz 3,338 2,334 3,092 2,185 Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,609 1,386 1,415 1,242 All-in sustaining costs1 (AISC) per gold ounce sold $/oz 1,830 1,613 1,620 1,452 Financial Performance Revenue $000s 94,512 58,343 177,227 123,028 Earnings from mine operations $000s 39,951 23,167 78,514 50,049 Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Orezone $000s 15,906 8,939 31,885 20,636 Net earnings per common share attributable to shareholders of Orezone Basic $ 0.03 0.02 0.06 0.06 Diluted $ 0.03 0.02 0.06 0.05 EBITDA1 $000s 40,270 26,728 81,452 57,057 Adjusted EBITDA1 $000s 45,493 20,491 89,687 46,419 Adjusted earnings attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $000s 20,607 3,326 39,297 11,062 Adjusted earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $ 0.04 0.01 0.08 0.03 Cash and Cash Flow Data Operating cash flow before changes in working capital $000s 27,023 15,331 67,009 36,671 Operating cash flow $000s 16,357 (51 ) 44,061 13,586 Free cash flow1 $000s (27,154 ) (16,951 ) (23,472 ) (14,938 ) Cash, end of period $000s 72,592 11,446 72,592 11,446

1 Cash costs, AISC, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted earnings, Adjusted earnings per share, and Free cash flow are non-IFRS measures. See Non-IFRS Measures section below for additional information.

SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

Strong Liquidity Maintained : Available liquidity stood at $103.9M at June 30, 2025 with $72.6M in cash and XOF 17.5 billion ($31.3M) undrawn on the Phase II term loan with Coris Bank International. The Company remains well-funded to execute on its 2025 and future growth plans.

: Available liquidity stood at $103.9M at June 30, 2025 with $72.6M in cash and XOF 17.5 billion ($31.3M) undrawn on the Phase II term loan with Coris Bank International. The Company remains well-funded to execute on its 2025 and future growth plans. Robust EBITDA, Net Earnings, and Earnings Per Share : Reported Q2-2025 EBITDA of $40.3M, net earnings attributable to Orezone shareholders of $15.9M, and net earnings per share attributable to Orezone shareholders of $0.03 per share on a basic and diluted basis as earnings benefitted from the record rise in gold prices and unhedged gold sales in the current quarter. These earnings figures were 51%, 79%, and 50% higher, respectively, when compared against Q2-2024.

: Reported Q2-2025 EBITDA of $40.3M, net earnings attributable to Orezone shareholders of $15.9M, and net earnings per share attributable to Orezone shareholders of $0.03 per share on a basic and diluted basis as earnings benefitted from the record rise in gold prices and unhedged gold sales in the current quarter. These earnings figures were 51%, 79%, and 50% higher, respectively, when compared against Q2-2024. Positive Operating Cash Flow Supporting Capital Investment : Reported Q2-2025 cash flow from operating activities of $27.0M after income tax payments of $14.9M but before changes in non-cash working capital. Non-cash working capital increased by $10.7M mainly from the build-up of VAT receivables and long-term ore stockpiles. Cash flow used in investing activities totalled $43.5M as progress and spending on the hard rock expansion and other growth projects accelerated.

: Reported Q2-2025 cash flow from operating activities of $27.0M after income tax payments of $14.9M but before changes in non-cash working capital. Non-cash working capital increased by $10.7M mainly from the build-up of VAT receivables and long-term ore stockpiles. Cash flow used in investing activities totalled $43.5M as progress and spending on the hard rock expansion and other growth projects accelerated. AISC Impacted by External Factors : AISC was elevated in Q2-2025 mainly due to higher royalties from a better realized gold price and new higher royalty rates (+$92/oz), low grid power availability due to a fire at a supply line substation and higher seasonal variability than forecasted (+$99/oz), and a stronger XOF currency impacting local costs (+$45/oz).

: AISC was elevated in Q2-2025 mainly due to higher royalties from a better realized gold price and new higher royalty rates (+$92/oz), low grid power availability due to a fire at a supply line substation and higher seasonal variability than forecasted (+$99/oz), and a stronger XOF currency impacting local costs (+$45/oz). Debt Reduction: Principal repayments totalling another XOF 3.0 billion ($5.2M) were made on the Companys senior debt in Q2-2025, bringing scheduled debt repayments to XOF 6.0 billion ($10.0M) in H1-2025. As of June 30, 2025, the principal on senior debt stood at XOF 36.5 billion ($65.3M).

OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

Bombore Mine, Burkina Faso (100% basis) Q2-2025 Q2-2024 H1-2025 H1-2024 Safety Lost-time injuries frequency rate Per 1M hours 0.55 0.00 0.31 0.00 Personnel-hours worked 000s hours 1,823 1,322 3,181 2,372 Mining Physicals Ore tonnes mined tonnes 2,059,136 1,966,547 4,173,679 4,369,080 Waste tonnes mined tonnes 3,948,902 3,451,757 7,967,084 6,574,856 Total tonnes mined tonnes 6,008,038 5,418,305 12,140,763 10,943,936 Strip ratio waste:ore 1.92 1.76 1.91 1.50 Processing Physicals Ore tonnes milled tonnes 1,565,022 1,428,396 3,076,325 2,784,015 Head grade milled Au g/t 0.62 0.64 0.65 0.71 Recovery rate % 87.8 86.8 87.8 88.0 Gold produced Au oz 27,548 25,524 56,236 55,663 Unit Cash Cost Mining cost per tonne $/tonne 3.27 3.29 3.04 3.38 Mining cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 9.50 8.87 8.79 8.46 Processing cost $/tonne 9.65 9.19 8.74 9.21 Site general and admin (G&A) cost $/tonne 4.36 3.96 4.08 3.87 Cash cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 23.51 22.02 21.61 21.54 Cash Costs and AISC Details Mining cost (net of stockpile movements) $000s 14,869 12,672 27,045 23,539 Processing cost $000s 15,106 13,120 26,888 25,640 Site G&A cost $000s 6,824 5,654 12,542 10,788 Refining and transport cost $000s 113 136 279 253 Government royalty cost $000s 8,366 4,595 14,968 9,727 Gold inventory movements $000s 206 (1,625 ) (745 ) (209 ) Cash costs1 on a sales basis $000s 45,484 34,552 80,977 69,738 Sustaining capital $000s 4,284 3,281 7,483 7,299 Sustaining leases $000s 74 73 147 146 Corporate G&A $000s 1,880 2,319 4,062 4,388 All-In Sustaining Costs1 on a sales basis $000s 51,722 40,225 92,669 81,571 Gold sold Au oz 28,265 24,937 57,208 56,166 Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,609 1,386 1,415 1,242 All-In Sustaining Costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,830 1,613 1,620 1,452

1 Non-IFRS measure. See Non-IFRS Measures section below for additional details.

BOMBORE PRODUCTION RESULTS

Q2-2025 vs Q2-2024

Gold production in Q2-2025 was 27,548 oz, an increase of 8% from the 25,524 oz produced in Q2-2024. The higher gold production is attributable to a 10% increase in plant throughput and a 1% increase in recovery rates partially offset by a 3% decline in head grades.

Plant throughput of 1.57M tonnes in Q2-2025 continues to operate ahead of nameplate by 20% and was 10% higher than Q2-2024 as plant operating hours in Q2-2024 were reduced by more frequent grid power interruptions and the longer length of time needed to transition power on and off of back-up diesel gensets during grid blackouts and restorations.

Hourly plant throughput was successfully improved starting in July 2024 and maintained into 2025 by increasing the mill power draw and reducing residence time in the CIL circuit with only a minor loss in recovery. Transition time to switch between the grid and back-up gensets have also been lowered from improvements made to the site power infrastructure in Q1-2025.

The better head grades in Q2-2024 were from the sequencing of higher-grade pits in earlier periods of the mine plan and the preferential stockpiling of lower-grade ore mined.

BOMBORE OPERATING COSTS

Q2-2025 vs Q2-2024

AISC per gold oz sold in Q2-2025 was $1,830, a 13% increase from $1,613 per oz sold in Q2-2024. The higher AISC is primarily attributable to: (a) greater per oz royalty costs ($296/oz vs $184/oz) from a 43% increase in the realized gold price and new higher royalty rates enacted into law in April 2025; (b) lower head grades; (c) a higher strip ratio; and (d) XOF currency appreciation against the USD (~5% higher) on costs set in the local currency.

Power costs in both quarters suffered from high occurrences of power dips and blackouts to the national grid, resulting in more use of the back-up diesel gensets for power generation at the Bombore mine. Grid supply is seasonally low in Q2, and similar to 2024, has significantly improved starting in Q3 with weekly grid utilization regularly exceeding 90%. For power consumed at the mine, the national grid supplied 50% in Q2-2025 and 34% in Q2-2024, leading to increased processing costs in these quarters from the use of higher-cost diesel for power generation.

Cash cost per ore tonne processed in Q2-2025 was $23.51/tonne, an increase of 7% from $22.02/tonne in Q2-2024, driven by a stronger XOF currency impacting costs in all departments, a 9% increase in the strip ratio in mining, and higher unit consumption rates for power and lime in processing due to the changing composition of ore fed into the mill.

BOMBORE HARD ROCK EXPANSION

Hard Rock Expansion  Stage 1

Construction of the 2.5Mtpa stage 1 hard rock expansion remains on schedule and on budget, with first gold expected in Q4-2025.

Progress and milestones achieved to the end of Q2-2025 include:

Project completion reached 63%

Engineering and drafting are complete

Procurement is completed with all equipment and materials ordered. Focus is now on expediting critical path deliveries of electrical equipment and bulks to site. Final shipments of structural steel and tank platework, and other major mechanical equipment are either at site or in transit to site

Concrete volume poured of 4,114 m 3 (78% of estimated total) with foundations for SAG mill, water tanks, and pipe racks completed, and jaw crusher wing walls, conveyor footings, and other equipment foundations advancing

(78% of estimated total) with foundations for SAG mill, water tanks, and pipe racks completed, and jaw crusher wing walls, conveyor footings, and other equipment foundations advancing All five CIL tanks are now erected to full height with hydrostatic testing underway

Steel erection is progressing well

Mill installation works commenced

Operational readiness activities continue to progress with safety and training plans under preparation, and recruitment activities launched. Development of plant specific operating and maintenance procedures are underway

All major site installation contracts (concrete, structural/mechanical/piping, electrical/instrumentation, and mill installation) were awarded to the same contractors that successfully delivered on the oxide construction. These contractors have now mobilized to site except for the electrical and instrumentation contractor whose team is scheduled to arrive in Q3-2025.

As of June 30, 2025, the Company has incurred $57.0M in costs to-date against the project budget, of which $22.7M and $41.7M were incurred in Q2-2025 and H1-2025, respectively.

Figure 1: Bombore Processing Complex  Hard Rock Plant Layout (blue labels) Relative to Oxide Plant and Other Established Infrastructure (white labels)

Figure 2: Stage 1 Hard Rock Expansion  Major Plant Component Construction

Hard Rock Expansion  Stage 2

On August 13, 2025, the Companys Board of Directors approved a final investment decision to proceed with stage 2 construction of the hard rock expansion. To the 2.5Mtpa stage 1 hard rock circuit, the stage 2 expansion to 5.5Mtpa comprises the addition of a ball mill, pebble crusher, thickener, oxygen plant, four additional CIL tanks, and a gold room upgrade.

The latest capital cost estimate for the stage 2 hard rock expansion is $90M to $95M, with a construction timeline to first gold in Q4-2026 of 16 months. Once in commercial production, stage 2 is projected to increase overall gold production at Bombore to 220,000-250,000 ounces per annum6.

The Company intends to award engineering and procurement for the stage 2 expansion to Lycopodium. During Q2-2025, the Company contracted Lycopodium to perform front-end engineering and design, along with advancing procurement on long-lead equipment as part of stage 2 early works ahead of the approved final investment decision.

As of June 30, 2025, the Company has incurred $0.4M in costs in Q2-2025 and for the project to-date.

Figure 3: Schematic highlighting mill component additions for stage 2 hard rock expansion. Oxide plant and stage 1 hard rock circuit in grey.

________________________

6 Refer to footnote 1.



CORPORATE AND SIGNIFICANT SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Corporate

Bought Deal Equity Offering: In March 2025, the Company closed a bought deal offering including the over-allotment exercise by issuing 49,085,450 common shares at a price of C$0.82 per share for gross proceeds of C$40.3M ($28.0M) with net proceeds at C$37.6M ($26.1M) after commission and other transaction costs. Net proceeds from the offering will be used to fund construction costs for stage 2 of the hard rock expansion, exploration, working capital, and general corporate purposes.





In March 2025, the Company closed a bought deal offering including the over-allotment exercise by issuing 49,085,450 common shares at a price of C$0.82 per share for gross proceeds of C$40.3M ($28.0M) with net proceeds at C$37.6M ($26.1M) after commission and other transaction costs. Net proceeds from the offering will be used to fund construction costs for stage 2 of the hard rock expansion, exploration, working capital, and general corporate purposes. Private placement with Nioko Resources Corporation (Nioko): On April 2, 2025, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement with Nioko by issuing 10,719,659 common shares at a price of C$0.82 per share for gross proceeds of C$8.8M ($6.1M) in order to maintain its pro-rata share ownership in the Company. The net proceeds received from the share issuance was C$8.8M ($6.1M) after listing fees.





On April 2, 2025, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement with Nioko by issuing 10,719,659 common shares at a price of C$0.82 per share for gross proceeds of C$8.8M ($6.1M) in order to maintain its pro-rata share ownership in the Company. The net proceeds received from the share issuance was C$8.8M ($6.1M) after listing fees. Board of Director Changes: At the Companys AGM held on June 12, 2025, Mr. Julian Babarczy was elected as a new board member. Mr. Babarczy is an Australian resident with extensive knowledge of the Australian capital markets and deep relationships with many Australian institutional investment funds and brokerages. Mr. Babarczy will be an essential resource for the Companys local marketing efforts following the Companys recent listing on the ASX. Mr. Marco Locascio and Mr. Matthew Quinlan did not stand for re-election at the AGM. The Company is appreciative of the invaluable contributions and financial insights provided by Mr. Locascio and Mr. Quinlan during their respective tenures as directors.

Subsequent Events

Hard Rock Expansion  Stage 2 Construction Approval: The Companys Board of Directors approved a final investment decision to proceed with stage 2 construction of the hard rock expansion at its Bombore mine. See Bombore Hard Rock Expansion section for further details pertaining to the stage 2 hard rock expansion.

The Companys Board of Directors approved a final investment decision to proceed with stage 2 construction of the hard rock expansion at its Bombore mine. See Bombore Hard Rock Expansion section for further details pertaining to the stage 2 hard rock expansion. ASX Public Offering and Listing: The Company was admitted to the official list of the ASX and commenced trading under the symbol ORE. As part of the ASX listing, the Company completed an initial public offering of 65,789,474 CHESS Depository Interests (CDIs) over fully paid common shares in the capital of the Company at an offer price of A$1.14 per CDI, raising gross proceeds of A$75.0 million.

NON-IFRS MEASURES

The Company has included certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that is not defined under IFRS, including cash costs, AISC, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings, adjusted earnings per share, and free cash flow. Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company uses such measures to provide additional information and they should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. For a complete description of how the Company calculates such measures and reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms, refer to Non-IFRS Measures in the Managements Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended June 30, 2025 which is incorporated by reference herein.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements and Managements Discussion and Analysis are available at www.orezone.com and on the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Orezone will host a conference call and audio webcast to discuss its second quarter 2025 results on August 13, 2025:

Webcast

Timing: August 13, 2025, 2:00pm PT / 5:00pm ET / August 14, 2025, 7:00am AEST

Conference call webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/8smskvgu/

Conference Call

Toll-free in U.S. and Canada: 1-800-715-9871

International callers: +646-307-1963

Event ID: 9884247

QUALIFIED PERSONS

The scientific and technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Rob Henderson, P. Eng, Vice-President of Technical Services and Mr. Dale Tweed, P. Eng., Vice-President of Engineering, both of whom are Qualified Persons as defined under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

ABOUT OREZONE GOLD CORPORATION

Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, ASX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) is a West African gold producer engaged in mining, developing, and exploring its 90%-owned flagship Bombore Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. Construction of the stage 1 hard rock expansion is well underway, with first gold expected in Q4-2025. Combined production from the oxide and stage 1 hard rock operations is forecasted to total between 170,000 and 185,000 ounces in 2026. The Company is also advancing the stage 2 hard rock expansion, which is forecasted to increase annual production to between 220,000 and 250,000 ounces.

The technical report entitled Bombore Phase II Expansion, Definitive Feasibility Study is available on SEDAR+ and the Companys website.

Patrick Downey

President and Chief Executive Officer

Kevin MacKenzie

Vice President, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

Tel: 1 778 945 8977

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / www.orezone.com

For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945-8977 or visit the Companys website at www.orezone.com.

The Toronto Stock Exchange neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

This announcement was authorised for release by the Companys Board of Directors.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, including statements and forecasts which include (without limitation) expectations regarding the financial position of the Company, production targets, the stage 1 and stage 2 hard rock expansions, the goal of defining a 7 to 10 million ounce resource base in the near future, future strategies, results and outlook of the Company and the opportunities available to the Company. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects, is expected, is expecting, budget, outlook, scheduled, target, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, or believes, or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might, or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Such information is based on assumptions and judgments of the Company regarding future events and results. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, targets, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, targets, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, the Directors and management of the Company. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Key risk factors associated with an investment in the Company are detailed in the Companys audited annual consolidated financial statements, annual MD&A and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024 as well as Section 4 of the Companys prospectus dated July 11, 2025, copies of which can be found on SEDAR+ and the Companys website. These and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking information and statements (including the Company's belief that it has a reasonable basis to expect it will be able to fund the hard rock expansion at the Bombore Mine) are, further to the above, based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of the Company made in light of its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, readers are cautioned that this is not exhaustive of all factors which may impact on the forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information or statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Due to the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ExGen Resources Inc. (TSX.V: EXG; OTC: BXXRF) (ExGen, the Company) and MTB Metals Corp. (TSXV: MTB, OTCQB: MBYMF, Frankfurt: M9U) (MTB): ExGen and MTB are pleased to announce that they have entered into an non-binding letter of intent dated August 12, 2025 (the LOI). The LOI contemplates terms and conditions subject to: (i) the negotiation and finalization of the definitive agreement (the Definitive Agreement) between the ExGen and MTB; and (ii) the terms of a potential business combination pursuant to which ExGen and MTB will combine their operations, business, assets and properties (the Proposed Transaction). The Proposed Transaction will be subject to approval by MTB shareholders, court, and TSX Venture Exchange (the TSX-V) approvals, among others, and other closing conditions customary in transactions of this nature. The Proposed Transaction will be an Arms Length Transaction for both companies under the policies of the TSX-V.

Terms of the LOI

Under the Proposed Transaction, ExGen would acquire all the issued and outstanding securities of MTB, on the basis of 0.286 ExGen share for each MTB share, with the result that the current securityholders of MTB would become securityholders of ExGen. If a Definitive Agreement is not entered into by the parties on or prior to the date that is 60 days from the date that the LOI is signed by both parties, or at such earlier or later date as the parties may agree, then either party may terminate the LOI on written notice to the other party (the Termination Date). Pursuant to the LOI, ExGen and MTB have agreed to deal exclusively with each other regarding the transactions contemplated in the LOI and will not initiate or continue discussions with third parties regarding such transactions until the Termination Date.

Benefits of the Proposed Transaction:

The Proposed Transaction would create an exploration and development company with a strong balance sheet and assets in multiple favorable jurisdictions.

Consolidation of the DOK property interest, part of MTBs Telegraph copper-gold project in the fertile Golden Triangle of British Columbia.

Exposure for MTBs shareholders to ExGens 20% carried interest in the Empire copper-gold project in Idaho as well as to ExGens other copper and lithium projects.

Lawrence Roulston, CEO of MTB, commented, This merger combines MTB's exposure to copper and gold projects with ExGens carried interest in the development-stage Empire copper mine. The Empire interest offers a clear path to near-term cash flow. The combined company will have a strong balance sheet, providing a solid basis for an evolving business plan in which high-risk exploration expenditures will be funded by others. We intend to continue to expand our portfolio of royalties and carried interests as well as continuing a highly selective exploration program aimed at identifying high potential prospects."

Jason Riley, CEO of ExGen, commented, We long ago recognized the enormous potential of the Dok property and are pleased that our interest in Dok will be integrated with the much larger Telegraph project in which the combined company will hold a 100% interest. The Golden Triangle is on the brink of a new era of development and we will have one of the leading exploration projects. The combined management and technical team will continue to seek value accretive opportunities with an emphasis on copper, gold and lithium.

This transaction marks a significant milestone for ExGen, creating a property portfolio that includes both a near-term production asset and a new porphyry discovery. The combined company will be well positioned to advance the existing business plan as we evolve into a leading royalty and carried interest company.

Property Portfolio of ExGen

Empire Mine: ExGen holds an effective 20% carried interest in the Empire Mine project in Idaho. A 2025 pre-feasibility study outlined an open pit mine plan. Sulphide veins underlying the open pit area were historically mined from underground. A 2021 drillhole encountered 8.4% copper along with significant values of gold, silver, zinc and tungsten. The sulphide vein zone represents considerable upside potential for the project.

DOK Claims: ExGen holds the DOK claims, representing 27% of MTBs Telegraph project in British Columbias Golden Triangle. ExGen would retain a 40% interest after the earn-in by MTB.

Spark North Lithium: 2300 acres of unpatented claims in Elko County, Nevada, directly north of Surge Battery Metals North Nevada Lithium Project.

Boss Project, Nevada: a past-producing gold mine in Nevada. A 2013 43-101 Technical Report identified an 8 km by 6 km area that hosts copper gold mineralization and evidence of a copper-gold porphyry system.

Buena Vista Copper Project, Nevada: Field work in 2011 and 2012 identified extensive areas of copper mineralization and two large areas of chargeability.

Gordon Lake: A high-grade gold exploration prospect in the NWT.

Property Portfolio of MTB

Telegraph: 350 square kilometer consolidated land package in the vicinity of 4 notable porphyry deposits being advanced by major mining companies: Galore (Teck/Newmont), Schaft (Teck), Saddle (Newmont) and the operating Red Chris copper-gold mine (Newmont). The property hosts multiple district-scale porphyry copper-gold targets with compelling evidence of fertile copper-gold porphyry systems. Early drilling successes on the Dok trend have outlined a copper-gold bearing porphyry system over 3.3 km and the zone remains open in all directions. MTB has an option with ExGen to earn a 60% interest in the DOK claims, an option to earn a 100% interest in the Dok-X/Yeti claims and a 100% interest in 191 square kilometers of staked claims.

Southmore: 50 square kilometers, 100% owned. The property hosts structurally controlled precious and base metal mineralization; bedded massive sulphides of copper/lead/zinc and skarn mineralization with copper peripheral to intrusions and evidence of underlying porphyry mineralization. Surface samples include a sample with 12.7% copper and another with 29.4 g/t gold.

Royalties: MTB has royalties on 4 projects in the Golden Triangle, encompassing gold, silver and copper, including two past-producing mines.

MTB also holds 486,072 shares of Dolly Varden Silver Corp, presently valued at $2.4 million.

Qualified Persons

Andrew Wilkins, P. Geo. is a qualified person within the context of National Instrument 43-101 and has read and takes responsibility for the technical aspects of this release in so far as they relate to MTB. Kiernan Downs, P. Geo. is a qualified person within the context of National Instrument 43-101 and has read and takes responsibility for the technical aspects of this release in so far as they relate to ExGen.

Other Information



Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions and contingencies being satisfied, waived or removed by one or both of ExGen and MTB, including the execution of a Definitive Agreement, approval of MTB's shareholders together with any requisite disinterested shareholder approvals, court approval and acceptance of the TSXV. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular, if any, to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of MTB and ExGen should be considered highly speculative.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

If and when a Definitive Agreement is executed, ExGen and MTB will issue a subsequent news release in accordance with the policies of the TSX-V containing details of the Definitive Agreement and additional terms and conditions of the Proposed Transaction, including summary financial information and other information in respect of the Proposed Transaction.

ABOUT MTB METALS CORP.

MTB is advancing two copper-gold projects in the prolific Golden Triangle of northern British Columbia.

Telegraph: 350 square kilometre property located in the vicinity of 4 notable porphyry deposits all being explored or mined by major mining companies. Field work by MTB, together with earlier results, provides compelling evidence for the presence of one or more porphyries similar to the others in the area.

Southmore: 50 square kilometer property hosts several significant copper and gold occurrences. Surface samples include a sample with 12.7% copper and another with 29.4 g/t gold.

MTB also holds royalties on four projects in the Golden Triangle, including two past producing mines and it holds 480,072 shares of Dolly Varden Silver.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Lawrence Roulston

President & CEO

For further information:

Caroline Klukowski, Investor Relations

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABOUT EXGEN RESOURCES INC.

ExGen is a project accelerator that seeks to fund exploration and development of our projects through joint ventures and partnership agreements. This approach significantly reduces the technical and financial risks for ExGen, while maintaining the upside exposure to new discoveries and potential cash flow. ExGen intends to build a diverse portfolio of projects across exploration stages and various commodity groups. ExGen currently has 7 projects in Canada and the US.



For more information on ExGen please contact:

ExGen Resources Inc.

Jason Tong

Chief Financial Officer

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cell: 604-889-7827

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 Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information in relation to: the LOI, the finalization of the Definitive Agreement, the Proposed Transaction and the potential completion of the Proposed Transaction, the execution of the Definitive Agreement, the proposed share exchange ratio, the potential business upon the completion of the Proposed Transaction being a copper, gold and lithium exploration and development company, the potential benefits of the Proposed Transaction to ExGen and MTB shareholders, the potential conditions and satisfaction of those conditions for the completion of the Proposed Transaction, and the potential benefits of the Proposed Transaction to ExGen and MTB shareholders, the potential for near term cash flow from the Empire project, the potential funding of the resulting issuers high-risk exploration expenditures by others, the potential expansion of the resulting issuers project portfolio of royalties and carried interests, the potential identification of high potential projects, the potential of the DOK property, the potential development of the Golden Triangle, the goal of the combined management team to continue to seek value accretive opportunities with an emphasis on copper, gold and lithium, the potential of the resulting issuer to create a near-term production asset and a major new porphyry discovery, the potential of the resulting issuer to evolve into a leading royalty and carried interest company, the potential of the resulting issuers combined projects, and the issuance of a further news release upon the execution of Definitive Agreements and the inclusion of additional information in such news release. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. In the forward looking information contained in this news release, ExGen and MTB have made numerous assumptions, based upon practices and methodologies which are consistent with the mineral industry. In addition, ExGen and MTB have assumed: the execution of a Definitive Agreement; the satisfaction of any conditions to the Proposed Transaction set forth in the LOI and the Definitive Agreement, including, without limitation, the acceptance of the Proposed Transaction by the TSX-V and typical closing conditions; the completion of satisfactory due diligence by ExGen and MTB in relation to the Proposed Transaction; the receipt of all required approvals for the Proposed Transaction, including TSX-V acceptance and any board approvals or third party consents; and market acceptance of the Proposed Transaction. While ExGen and MTB consider 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 ExGen's and MTBs observations, 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: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; volatility of commodity prices; competition; accidents and other risks inherent in the mining industry; delay or failure to receive board of directors, third party or regulatory approvals; competition; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting ExGen or MTB; the early stage development of ExGen and MTB and their projects; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; conclusions of economic evaluations and appraisals; the possibility that the analytical results from future core sampling does not return significant grades of mineralization; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology; continuity and grade of mineralization; there is no certainty that any work programs will result in significant or successful exploration of ExGens and MTBs projects or development of such projects into a producing mine; uncertainty as to the actual results of exploration and development or operational activities; uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; ExGen and MTB may not be able to comply with their ongoing obligations regarding their properties and projects; lack of insurance; currency fluctuations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; and lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals. A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in ExGen's and MTBs disclosure documents on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although ExGen and MTB have 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. ExGen and MTB do not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Imperial Metals Corporation (Imperial or the Company) (TSX:III) reports that an exploration drill hole, drilling a blind target through clastic cover rocks, intercepted a hydrothermal breccia hosting significant visual native copper at the unconformity with the Mount Polley Intrusive Complex (MPIC). Two intercepts in diamond drill hole FP-25-01 of 7.0 metres grading 0.70% copper and 0.27 g/t gold starting at 383.0 metres, and 20.0 metres grading 0.25% copper and 0.96 g/t gold starting at 417.5 metres, mark the discovery of significant mineralization in a major step-out. The drill hole was collared 4.15 kilometres north of the operating Mount Polley mill (see Figure 1).

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Width (m) Copper (%) Gold (g/t) Copper Oxide

Ratio(% )* FP-25-01 383.0 390.0 7.0 0.70 0.27 9% and 417.5 437.5 20.0 0.25 0.96 9%

*Copper Oxide Ratio % = (CuOx%/Total Cu%)*100

Hole FP-25-01 was drilled 1.2 kilometres north-northwest from the previously mined Wight Pit (Northeast Zone) where some of the highest copper grade ore has been mined at Mount Polley. FP-25-01 was oriented at an azimuth of 210 with a dip of -60 and collared into a conglomerate unit that lies over the MPIC (see Figure 2). The blind target was generated through interpretation of a structural corridor that extends north-northwest from the Northeast Zone and coincides with two geophysical anomalies. Geophysical surveys overlapping the structural corridor reveal a 3-Dimensional Induced Polarization chargeability response and overlapping magnetic high. Drilling through the post-MPIC cover conglomerate unit intersected an unconformable contact with the MPIC at 378.9 metres down hole (348 metres vertical depth from surface). The rock below 378.9 metres consisted of brecciated and carbonate healed MPIC monzonite-monzodiorite with native copper until 414.7 metres. This was followed by additional hydrothermal breccia displaying strong magnetite alteration and good chalcopyrite mineralization until 437.5 metres. The magnetite-rich breccia continued to 590 metres down hole.

The mineralization encountered in FP-25-01 is significant for the following reasons:

Intercept is 390 metres away from the nearest known mineralized hit.

The dominance of native copper in this intercept is unique and opens up the question of whether other, similar style mineralization is in the area.

The high gold-copper ratio in the lower intercept starting at 417.5 metres, is distinctly different from metal ratios observed in other zones in this part of the property.

The series of mineralized zones that occur along the interpreted structural corridor occur over a linear distance of over 1,500 metres. The link between mineralization and the structure will be further investigated.

The extent of non-copper-gold bearing magnetite breccia below 437.5 metres is a clear sign of extensive hydrothermal activity well north of the exposed MPIC and provides support for further exploration targeting in the surrounding area.

Figure 1: Location Plan Map showing the area of Boundary Zone and Wight Pit relative to the new diamond drill hole FP-25-01. Also shown is the section line A  A which controls the location of Figure 2.

Drilling continued after the drill results reported in the May 22, 2025 News Release with 16 additional drill holes designed to aid in expanding the resource in the gold-rich C2 Zone, and 2 holes in the pit to provide detailed information to support mine planning. Diamond drilling at Mount Polley has been suspended for now.

Figure 2  Section A  A showing the interpreted geology and closest Company drilling to the location of FP-25-01. Looking West

Jim Miller-Tait, P.Geo., Imperials VP Exploration, has reviewed this news release as the designated Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for the Mount Polley exploration program. Samples reported were analyzed at Activation Laboratories Ltd. located in Kamloops. Due to the presence of native copper selected samples were analyzed by copper metallic screen method. A full QA/QC program using blanks, standards and duplicates was completed for all diamond drilling samples submitted to the labs. Significant assay intervals reported represent apparent widths. Insufficient geological information is available to confirm the geological model and true width of significant assay intervals.

About Imperial

Imperial is a Vancouver based exploration, mine development and operating company with holdings that include the Mount Polley mine (100%), the Huckleberry mine (100%), and the Red Chris mine (30%). Imperial also holds a portfolio of 23 exploration properties in British Columbia.

Company Contacts

Brian Kynoch | President | 604.669.8959

Jim Miller-Tait | VP Exploration | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this news release are not statements of historical fact and are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the Companys managements expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Companys expectations with respect to current and planned exploration drilling programs at Mount Polley and timing thereof, specifically with respect to the future plans to investigate the new mineralization encountered in FP-25-01 and the potential link to a structural corridor that extends north-northwest from the Northeast Zone; the potential for mineralization to be converted from resource to reserve; the potential for extension of mine life; and the impact of drilling on future pit designs and mine life schedule. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "outlook", "budget", "scheduled", "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", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative of these terms or comparable terminology. By their very nature forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on information currently available to the Company as well as the Companys current beliefs and assumptions. These factors and assumptions and beliefs and assumptions include the risk factors detailed from time to time in the Companys annual information form, interim and annual financial statements and managements discussion and analysis of those statements, all of which are filed and available for review on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, many of which are beyond the Companys ability to control or predict. 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 and all forward-looking statements in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements.
UN investigators say they have recorded "systematic" torture in Myanmar's military-run detention facilities including beatings, electric shocks and gang rape.

Myanmar has been consumed by civil war since the military deposed the civilian government in a 2021 coup, with troops fighting an array of pro-democracy guerrillas and ethnic armed groups.

The fighting has been accompanied by a crackdown which has seen nearly 30,000 people arrested, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners monitor group.

A report by the UN's Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said it had identified "serious abuses during interrogations and in detention facilities".

A junta spokesman could not be reached for comment on the allegations laid out in an IIMM annual report released Tuesday, drawing on testimony from nearly 600 eyewitnesses.

It said there had been "systematic commission" of torture including "sexual slavery", the "burning of sexual body parts with cigarettes or burned objects", and fingernails being pulled out with pliers.

It also found evidence "indicating that children -- ranging from two to 17 years of age -- have been detained, often as proxies for their parents".

"Some of the detained children have been subjected to torture, ill-treatment or sexual and gender-based crimes," it added.

IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian said the organisation had seen "a continued increase in the frequency and brutality of atrocities" but had made "headway in identifying the perpetrators".

"We are working towards the day when the perpetrators will have to answer for their actions in a court of law," he added.

The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor has already requested an arrest warrant for junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, who ousted and jailed elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

That warrant request relates to alleged atrocities committed by the military on Myanmar's Rohingya minority in 2017.

All sides in Myanmar's civil war have been accused of committing war crimes, and the IIMM report said it had also identified cases where opposition groups had committed summary executions of captives.
Bangladesh anti-corruption officials told a court on Wednesday of alleged abuses of power by ousted ex-leader Sheikh Hasina and her family in cases involving her niece, British lawmaker Tulip Siddiq.

Three officials from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) read out testimonies in three separate cases, over an alleged land grab of lucrative plots in a suburb of the capital Dhaka.

Siddiq, who resigned as British anti-corruption minister in January after being named in probes in Bangladesh into graft accusations, has called the process a "persecution and a farce", and is not in Bangladesh.

ACC lawyer Khan Mohammad Mainul said Siddiq was "lying".

"We have obtained all the necessary documents, including her correspondence in this matter," he told AFP. "We have strong evidence against her."

The cases are in addition to three corruption cases that opened on Monday. Hasina, 77, is named in all.

Hasina's rule saw widespread human rights abuses, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killing of her political opponents.

She fled Bangladesh by helicopter on August 5, 2024, after weeks of student-led protests against her autocratic rule.

She has defied orders to return from India, including to attend her separate and ongoing trial on charges amounting to crimes against humanity, over the deadly crackdown on the uprising.

The South Asian nation of around 170 million people has been in political turmoil since the revolt.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, the 85-year-old leading the caretaker government as its chief adviser, has said he will step down after elections in February.
The UN human rights chief Wednesday urged Sri Lanka's new government to seize the "historic opportunity" to end its entrenched culture of impunity for war crimes and other abuses.

In a report on the battle-scarred nation, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, said President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's government had a chance to restore Sri Lanka's image.

"Today, an opportunity presents itself for Sri Lanka to break from the past, with the leadership pledging a fresh direction on long-standing issues," Turk said in the 16-page report to the Human Rights Council.

It noted that the new leftist president had publicly recognised the shared pain and grief of individuals from all communities in Sri Lanka affected by decades of conflict.

"It is important to build on this momentum and to translate it into tangible results for accountability in the form of truth-telling, justice, reparations, and non-recurrence, as necessary to end impunity and provide for healing and closure."

Turk said the process should start with a clear and formal acknowledgement of the violations, abuses and crimes that occurred, including during the civil war that ended in May 2009.

He urged the international community to support Colombo's new efforts, but also warned that should Sri Lanka fail to deliver on its promises, they must exercise universal jurisdiction to prosecute war criminals.

UN reports have accused Sri Lankan troops of killing at least 40,000 Tamil civilians in the final months of the fighting, a charge successive governments have denied.

The crushing of the Tamil Tiger guerrilla leadership 16 years ago brought an end to 37 years of conflict that claimed at least 100,000 lives on all sides.

Sri Lanka's successive governments have also refused to allow an independent investigation into allegations of war crimes committed by its own troops or its warring partner, the Tamil Tigers.

Turk visited Sri Lanka last month and held talks with Dissanayake as well as civil society representatives, and also travelled to regions ravaged by war.

"As I witnessed first-hand during my visit to Sri Lanka, the pain and suffering of victims remains palpable, and their demands for truth and justice must be addressed."

He also welcomed pledges to repeal the dreaded Prevention of Terrorism Act, establish an independent public prosecutor, and investigate emblematic cases, including the 2009 assassination of anti-establishment editor Lasantha Wickrematunge.

The report also highlighted the deep social impact of the country's economic crisis in 2022, with poverty rates nearly doubling since 2019 and malnutrition rising sharply among children.
Starmer: Ukraine must have robust, credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following the results of a joint teleconference between U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and leaders of European countries, stated that Ukraine must have reliable and credible security guarantees to protect its territorial integrity within the framework of any agreement.

"The Prime Minister joined a call with the leaders of the United States, Ukraine, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, NATO and the European Union this afternoon. All leaders agreed this week marks an important moment for the future of Ukraine. They thanked President Trump for his efforts in bringing Putin to the table in pursuit of a ceasefire to end to the ongoing bloodshed," the UK government said in a statement published on the official website.

The Prime Minister reportedly said that the UK's support for Ukraine is unwavering.

"The Prime Minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering  international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal. Europe stands ready to support this and will continue to work alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," the statement reads.

The parties expressed hope for further talks after Trump and Putin met in Alaska on Friday.
VANCOUVER, CANADA, 2025  In a world where geopolitical shifts, tax reforms, and economic instability can alter personal and corporate fortunes overnight, having a single nationality is increasingly seen as a vulnerability rather than a constant. For high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and globally mobile families, Residency by Investment (RBI) and Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs have emerged as critical tools for securing mobility, stability, and asset protection.

Although the two concepts are often discussed interchangeably, they are fundamentally different in the rights granted, obligations imposed, timelines, and strategic applications. Selecting the correct pathway or deliberately combining them can mean the difference between a flexible global lifestyle and years of restricted movement, exposure to political risk, and limited legal recourse.

Understanding the Two Pathways

Residency by Investment (RBI) involves securing a legal residence permit in a country through a qualifying investment. This investment can be in real estate, government bonds, national development funds, or a local business. Residency allows a foreign national to live and, in many cases, work in the host country, but does not automatically confer citizenship. Many RBI programs allow eventual naturalization after a period of lawful residence, typically five to ten years.

Citizenship by Investment (CBI), on the other hand, grants full nationality and the passport that comes with it in exchange for a qualifying investment. Unlike the RBI, the CBI provides immediate access to the full rights of a citizen, including political rights, visa-free travel, and often the ability to pass citizenship to future generations.

Key Legal Distinctions

Permanence of Rights  Citizenship is generally permanent unless revoked for fraud; residency can expire if the investor fails to meet physical presence or renewal requirements. Scope of Rights  Citizens enjoy voting rights, consular protection abroad, and unrestricted work rights; residents have more limited privileges. Generational Transfer  Citizenship passes to children automatically; residency must be reapplied for or converted. Mobility Benefits  CBI passports can offer visa-free travel to over 150 countries; the RBIs decision is only as decisive as the applicants existing passport. Tax and Treaty Access  Citizens may benefit from double-taxation treaties and other agreements unavailable to mere residents.

Comparing Residency by Investment Programs

Portugal Golden Visa  Investment from 280,000 in real estate rehabilitation or 500,000 in property. Five-year path to citizenship with minimal stay requirements. Greece Golden Visa  Entry from 250,000 in real estate, offering Schengen travel and renewable five-year permits. Spain Investor Visa  500,000 property investment, ten-year citizenship path, EU work rights. Singapore Global Investor Program  High capital requirements aimed at entrepreneurs establishing significant business operations. United Arab Emirates Long-Term Visa  Available through property investment or business partnerships, with tax advantages, and no income tax.

Comparing Citizenship by Investment Programs

Saint Kitts and Nevis  Established in 1984, investment from $250,000 via Sustainable Growth Fund; visa-free to over 150 countries. Malta Exceptional Services  Minimum 600,000 contribution plus residency period; EU passport with global mobility. Grenada CBI  From $150,000 contribution; unique visa-free access to China and eligibility for U.S. E-2 visa. Antigua and Barbuda  From $100,000 contribution; family-friendly application structures. Vanuatu Development Support Program  Quick processing in as little as 60 days; from $130,000 contribution.

Case Study 1: Gradual Relocation Strategy

A Canadian entrepreneur seeking EU access invested in Portugals Golden Visa program, securing residency with only a few weeks per year in-country. After five years, he naturalized as a Portuguese citizen, gaining complete EU work and travel rights without disrupting his Canadian base until ready.

Case Study 2: Immediate Political Insurance

An investor from Eastern Europe, anticipating sanctions risk, obtained Grenadian citizenship in under five months. The new passport provided visa-free access to 145 countries and U.S. investor visa eligibility, enabling immediate business restructuring abroad.

Legal Systems Impact: Common Law vs. Civil Law

In Common Law jurisdictions, residency and citizenship rights are often shaped by precedent, offering more predictable legal recourse. In Civil Law jurisdictions, codified statutes dominate, meaning program requirements and timelines can shift abruptly if legislation changes. Applicants must understand the host countrys legal framework to anticipate both risks and protections.

Compliance and Revocation Risks

Past examples show that programs have revoked status for non-compliance or fraudulent applications. In 2014, certain Caribbean jurisdictions stripped citizenship over undisclosed criminal histories. In 2020, an EU country canceled dozens of residency permits for failure to maintain investments. Due diligence is now far stricter, requiring complete documentation of the source of funds and personal background.

Tax and Treaty Benefits in Detail

Residency can establish tax domicile in low-tax jurisdictions such as the UAE or Monaco without changing citizenship. Citizenship can enable access to tax treaties, reducing withholding taxes on cross-border dividends, royalties, and interest. For example, a Grenadian citizen can benefit from treaties with China, while a Maltese citizen can use EU directives to reduce intra-European tax friction.

Case Study 3: Family Succession Planning

A South African family utilized CBI in Saint Lucia to enhance their mobility and banking access, subsequently obtaining RBI in Cyprus to facilitate EU market access. Within six years, they secured triple nationality, ensuring that their heirs could live, study, and work across three continents without immigration barriers.

Case Study 4: Corporate Asset Diversification

An Asian manufacturing companys owners obtained CBI in Dominica to open new banking channels in Europe. They paired this with UAE residency for corporate tax optimization, creating a structure that reduced international banking friction and diversified risk.

The 2030 Mobility Forecast

By 2030, experts predict increased biometric data integration, meaning that mobility will depend less on physical documents and more on digital identity verification. Jurisdictions offering both strong privacy laws and secure citizenship will be in the highest demand. Caribbean and select EU programs are expected to retain value, while some lower-compliance programs may face international pressure to tighten standards.

Case Study 5: Crisis Mobility Activation

During a sudden political upheaval in his home country, an investor with CBI from Antigua relocated within 48 hours to Portugal via his RBI permit, avoiding border closures that trapped others without dual status.

Best Practices When Choosing RBI or CBI

Assess long-term mobility and lifestyle goals.

Understand legal obligations under both home and host country law.

Plan for generational benefits and succession laws.

Ensure full compliance with reporting and investment requirements.

Work only with providers who conduct rigorous due diligence.

Amicus International Consultings Strategic Role

Amicus International Consulting develops bespoke global mobility strategies, often blending RBI and CBI to create layered legal protection. By assessing clients risk profiles, family structures, and business needs, Amicus designs solutions that deliver immediate benefits and future resilience.

Conclusion

The decision between RBI and CBI is not simply procedural; it is a foundational element of your global legal identity. In a volatile world, the right choice can secure freedom of movement, safeguard assets, and provide peace of mind for generations.

Contact Information

Phone: +1 (604) 200-5402

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.amicusint.ca
Trump believes NATO should not be included in security guarantees for Ukraine, but USA and allies should be part of them  Macron

U.S. President Donald Trump believes that NATO should not be included in security guarantees for Ukraine, instead, they should include the United States and other allies who are ready to take on such obligations, French President Emmanuel Macron said following the leaders' online conversation.

"He [Trump] even said things that are very important to me. The fact that NATO should not be part of these security guarantees  and we know that this is a strong argument, especially for the Russian side  but that the United States and all allies who were ready should be part of them. And that is why we are committed to this. This is a very important clarification for me that we received today," he told reporters.

On Wednesday, August 13, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. The leaders participated in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Veteran actor Ahn Jae Wook surprised attendees at the KoreaVietnam State Banquet on August 11, grabbing attention from the guests and reporters present at the Blue House State Guesthouse.

The banquet, which was organized by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, invited Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and a group of political and business leaders.

Greeting the banquet in Vietnamese with a friendly "Xin chao" ("Hello"), President Lee applauded Vietnam's economic development, declaring Korea "the ideal partner" for the Southeast Asian country.

Nguyen Phu Trong acknowledged the hospitality, stating, "In this new era, I hope Vietnam will walk alongside Korea as our nation advances."

READ MORE:'Mouse' Episode 19: Lee Seung Gi is Ahn Jae Wook's Real Son

The event invited prominent personalities from the worlds of politics, business, culture, and sport. They included SK Group Chairman Chey Tae Won, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui Sun, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang Mo, Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong Bin, among other corporate executives.

High-level government officials, such as Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun Cheol and Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung Hoon, were also in attendance.

Ahn Jae Wook, who had debuted in 1994 and gained popularity through dramas like Star in My Heart, was also one of the cultural envoys who stood out.

One of the pioneering Hallyu stars, he has a devoted fan base in Korea, China, and Vietnam  an attachment which made his presence at the banquet more special.

His presence highlighted the cultural connection between the two countries, supporting the political and economic talks that dominated the night.

READ MORE: 'Superman Returns' Ahn Jae Wook Plays With Lee Twins
President Trump believes that any territorial issues should be resolved only with Ukraine  Macron

U.S. President Donald Trump said that territorial issues can only be resolved with Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron said following the leaders' online conversation.

"Another clear point made by President Trump: territorial issues that fall within the competence of Ukraine cannot and will not be discussed directly by anyone other than the President of Ukraine. We support this position; it was very clearly voiced by President Trump, and this sets the tone for the meeting," he told reporters.

The French leader said Trump very clearly stated the American goal of achieving a ceasefire during the meeting in Alaska.

"And it is very important that a ceasefire is actually achieved during this meeting, and with the mediation of the United States. We support this initiative, as well as new prisoner exchanges and the release of children," Macron said.

He also stressed the critical importance of security guarantees.

"There is a link between any territorial concessions and security guarantees that will be provided to Ukraine. You know that this is a position that we have defended and fought for in recent months, and which even led to the creation and planning of our coalition of the willing. President Trump has also been clear on this issue," the French president said.

On Wednesday, August 13, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. The leaders took part in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and U.S. President Donald Trump.






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - In a calculated nighttime burglary, two unidentified men were caught on CCTV at Olive City Plaza in Eldoret on the night of August 10th, stealing goods worth over Ksh 5 million from a computer and laptop store.

Security footage shows the suspects stuffing high-end laptops, desktops, and accessories into gunny bags before vanishing into the night.

The entire operation lasted only minutes, suggesting a well-planned heist.

Authorities believe the stolen items were loaded into a getaway vehicle stationed nearby.

Police are now reviewing the footage and appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the culprits.

Watch the footage.

Brazen Heist! CCTV captures thieves stealing KSh 5 million worth of electronics from a business premise at Olive City Plaza in Eldoret pic.twitter.com/lLczbF2ecm  DAILY POST  (@dailypost_ke) August 12, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - Detectives are investigating the brutal killing of Allan Kitavi, the chairman of the Komarocks Residents Association Board of Trustees and a respected college lecturer, who was found dead in the driveway of his second wifes home in Thome Estate, Kasarani.

According to his first family, they were informed of the tragedy around 9:00 p.m, after relatives called to say Kitavi had been found lying unconscious.

Earlier, a university student had reported to Marurui Police Station that loud screams were heard in the estate, prompting neighbours to raise the alarm.

When police arrived, they discovered Kitavis lifeless body.

CCTV footage later revealed that he had been followed by two men on the day of his murder, one of them identified as his stepson, Stephen Kioko, who is now under arrest.

Kioko is believed to be the prime suspect in the murder.

Investigators say the stepson had an ongoing dispute with Kitavi over family property.

In fact, Kitavi had previously reported to Kasarani Police Station that the title deed to his Thome home had gone missing under suspicious circumstances.

Watch video courtesy of TV47.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - Controversial political blogger Gilbert Kiptalam, better known as GK Malema, claims that he has identified the men who allegedly attempted to abduct him in the dead of night along Waiyaki Way.

Malema, a vocal ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and a relentless critic of the Kenya Kwanza Government, says the drama unfolded at around 2:00 am when his car hit a spike strip at a makeshift roadblock manned by men in civilian clothes.

He claims the suspects immediately pursued him on a motorbike, trailing him to the Shell Petrol Station opposite Safaricom House, where they confronted him while posing as police officers.

Security guards and curious onlookers intervened, forcing the would-be abductors to flee.

Malema has since recorded a statement with the police and claims his life is in danger.





The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - A Kenyan man, identified as Samuel Kangethe, has returned to Kenya after 16 years in the United States, citing fears over President Donald Trumps tougher immigration policies.

Kangethe, a former State of Michigan Accountant, first moved to the U.S. in 2009 on a student visa, studying at Lansing Community College before transferring to Norwood University.

He later married and obtained conditional residency, but immigration officials questioned the legitimacy of his first marriage, sparking a protracted court case that was stalled for years due to COVID-19 delays.

The matter was eventually dropped without a ruling.

Amid Trumps heightened enforcement against unlawful immigrants, Kangethe felt increasingly vulnerable.

With a case in court, I check all the boxes of people they will start with, he said.

His reluctance to lay low stemmed from wanting to remain present in his childrens lives without fear of arrest.

Although remarried to an American for seven years, Kangethe chose to leave, leaving behind his wife and three children, who remain in the U.S. legally.

He said the uncertainty and the constant need to hide made life unbearable.

His decision coincided with a May 2025 U.S. Department of Homeland Security offer of up to $1,000 (Ksh129,000) and free airfare for undocumented immigrants willing to self-deport.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem encouraged applications through the CBP Home app.

Kangethe insists leaving was the only way to protect his family, though the separation has left them uncertain about the future.





The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned public servants against mocking President William Ruto while in office.

Speaking in Narok, Murkomen said public officers, including chiefs, assistant chiefs, and security personnel, found chanting slogans such as one term or nicknaming the president Kasongo will face immediate dismissal.

He stressed that public servants are constitutionally bound to implement Government policies and respect the administration in place, regardless of political affiliation.

There is no chief, assistant chief or police officer who will be tolerated when found speaking ill of the Government.

If you serve in the public service, you must respect the Government that shall come.

Voting is your right, but campaigning or sloganeering while in office is unacceptable, Murkomen said.

The CS clarified that his directive applies to the current and any future Government, emphasising that public officers retain the right to vote for candidates of their choice in elections.

Murkomen also cautioned Kenyans against sharing videos of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on social media, claiming his recent remarks could jeopardise national stability.

Its no longer a joke who the former Deputy President is at the moment.

By sharing his statements, you encourage someone who is unwell to keep making comments that could harm our country, he said.

Murkomen criticised Gachagua over claims that senior Government officials had met Al-Shabaab leaders in Mandera.

He said the former DP will be required to record a statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations upon returning from his two-month U.S. trip.






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has castigated Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for suggesting that public servants who criticize the Government should be dismissed from office.

In a statement on Tuesday, August 12th, Kibwana warned that such remarks threaten accountability and good governance.

In public service, raising genuine concerns is essential for improving quality service delivery.

Silencing such voices undermines accountability and weakens governance. Constructive engagement, not intimidation, builds a stronger nation, she said.

Murkomen, speaking in Narok, declared that any public servant participating in political chants should face immediate dismissal, calling such actions unconstitutional.

There is no chief, assistant chief or police officer who will be tolerated when found speaking ill of the Government if a public servant insults the President or calls him nicknames such as Kasongo, or chants one term, they should be sacked immediately, he stated.

He stressed that public servants must focus on implementing Government policies in line with their oath of office, adding that political participation should be left for the ballot box.

Murkomens warning came a day after he urged Kenyans to stop circulating videos of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, claiming that the ex-DP is unwell and that sharing his remarks on platforms like TikTok encourages harmful discourse.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - President William Ruto has unveiled a raft of initiatives aimed at empowering young Kenyans, including the launch of a $75 million (KSh 9.75 billion) Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB) before the end of the current financial year.

Speaking during International Youth Day celebrations at Masinde Muliro University, Ruto said the bank will provide financing, credit guarantees, and capacity-building for youth-led enterprises.

He highlighted significant growth in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) enrolment, which has risen from 180,000 in 2018 to more than 700,000 today, supported by the expansion of institutions from about 50 to over 250 nationwide.

Through the National Government Apprenticeship Opportunities (NGAO) programme, the Government targets enrolling two million youth in TVET institutions by 2025 to bridge skills gaps of up to 40% in some technical sectors.

Ruto also underscored the Affordable Housing Programmes role in job creation, with 161,000 housing units currently under construction and over 320,000 people employed - a number expected to double in two months.

Additionally, the President announced 4,000 internships for young professionals in the housing sector, with plans to expand placements to 10,000 by January 2026.

The internships will cover architects, engineers, surveyors, IT specialists, marketers, and other specialists to equip youth with hands-on experience, networks, and career opportunities.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/vadym.filashkin/

Head of Donetsk Regional Military Administration, Vadym Filashkin, announced the beginning of the forced evacuation of families with children from the town of Bilozerske and six settlements of Bilozersk community and seven settlements of Dobropilska community of Pokrovsk district of Donetsk region, where there are currently approximately 1,150 children.

"We are starting the mandatory evacuation of families with children from the town of Bilozerske, the villages of Blahodat, Bokove, Vesele Pole, Vesna, Myrve, Novo-Vodiane of Bilozersk community and from the village of Sviatohorivka, the villages of Vyktorivka, Verivka, Kopani, Novo-Vyktorivka.

The corresponding decision was made at a meeting of the regional commission on technogenic and environmental safety and emergency situations of Donetsk region.

"I gave instructions to local authorities, heads of structural divisions of the regional state administration in coordination with law enforcement officers to organize the evacuation of families with these children as soon as possible and to provide appropriate living conditions in a safer territory of Ukraine," Filashkin emphasized.






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian has won a major legal battle against her estranged boyfriend, Musa Hussein Lenyumpa, after a Nairobi court issued temporary orders restraining him from contacting or harassing her.

Magistrate Festus Terer barred Musa from assaulting, threatening or interfering with the Senators well-being, including using her name, image or likeness for any purpose.

He is also banned from publishing information about her or accessing her home and workplace until further notice.

Through lawyer Danstan Omari, Lemaletian told the court their Samburu customary courtship ended long ago and no marriage took place, insisting the Ksh 100,000 ropiyani e loip Musa gave was only a token, which she has since returned.

She accused Musa of issuing death threats, physical violence that once left her nose bleeding, and using social media to tarnish her name.

The case will be heard on September 22nd, 2025, when both sides will argue whether the orders should be extended.





The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - A tragic accident on the Litein-Kericho Road on Tuesday left multiple passengers injured after a 14-seater matatu rammed into a tree under alarming circumstances.

According to initial reports, a traffic police officer allegedly jumped into the moving Nakuru Line vehicle after the driver refused to stop and offer him a bribe.

Witnesses claim the officer began strangling the driver during a scuffle, causing the matatu to veer off the road and crash.

Images from the scene show the vehicles front extensively damaged.

Injured passengers were rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment.



The Motorist Association of Kenya (MAK) condemned the incident, questioning the conduct of the police.

What type of enforcement is this? the group asked, warning that such tactics jeopardise lives.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has been investigating similar bribery cases, including recent arrests of officers in the Rift Valley, two of them from Litein, a known hotspot for extortion on the Sotik-Kericho Road.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Germany, together with other allies, is ready to finance one of the first comprehensive support packages worth up to $500 million within the framework of the Priority Needs List of Ukraine (PURL) mechanism, the joint statement of the Ministry of Defense and the Foreign Ministry of Germany reads.

"The support packages will include military goods that are either not produced by European industry or can be delivered by the United States faster than by European partners or Canada. These include, for example, critically important air defense equipment. They are urgently needed to counter the ongoing Russian air strikes, which are leading to the death of an increasing number of civilians throughout Ukraine," German agencies said.

As noted, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on July 14 that the United States will provide Ukraine with military equipment and ammunition under several support packages. Under the PURL mechanism, NATO will coordinate the implementation, ensuring that the content of the packages meets Ukraine's most urgent needs. Funding will be provided by European partners and Canada.

"By deciding to participate in this initiative, we emphasize our commitment to significantly strengthening and continuing our support for Ukraine and the solidarity of the alliance. The German government is in close consultation with NATO and allies on the details," the statement reads.

In total, since the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, Germany has provided Ukraine with around EUR 40 billion in bilateral military support or has allocated it for the coming years.
Research has shown that 24 per cent of employees in Ireland took leave for their mental health last year.

This is higher than the European average of 18 per cent.

The survey, carried out by of SD Worx Ireland, revealed 29 per cent of employees admit that working in their organisation negatively impacts their mental health.

50 per cent of people say they find their work mentally demanding or stressful, while 45 per cent of workers feel comfortable discussing this with their team.

43 per cent say their organisation actively undertakes initiatives to support mental health.

39 per cent of people admitted they feel guilty when they take time off work, while the same percentage feel pressure to work even when they are sick.

Eimear Byrne, Country Leader, SD Worx Ireland, said: This research highlights some concerning trends around mental health and wellbeing in the Irish workplace. Employees are feeling under pressure, which is resulting in many not believing in the work that they are doing.

"At a time when there is full employment in Ireland, organisations must prioritise creating environments where people feel supported, valued, and able to do meaningful work.

It is encouraging to see that employees are not only being more open about their mental health at work, but that employers are placing an increased focus on their wellbeing.

"This must include financial wellbeing - but only 35% of employees believe that their organisation cares about the financial wellbeing of its workers.

"Payroll must be part of this conversation. Timely, accurate pay builds financial security, while fair and transparent processes around sick leave, entitlements, and rewards help create a culture of trust. By combining smart systems with human insight, businesses can actively support the financial and mental wellbeing of their people.
A MAN who entered a guilty plea for the alleged robbery of outlets at Kildare Village was condemned by the sitting judge at Naas District Court for causing prices to increase for shoppers due to his crimes.

35-year-old Fores Djelailia, who has no previous convictions, appeared in court on charges of theft which occurred on October 6 at the popular designer outlet centre, Kildare Village.

Mr Djelailia opted to enter a guilty plea on the matter, which involved him stealing a Nike jacket and runners to the value of 399.98 and a pair of sunglasses and a watch to the value of 1279.

Mr Djelailia with an address at Whitehouse, Castle Street, Roscrea, Co Tippeary was given the choice of being elected to the Circuit Court to be tried by judge and jury or to be tried at the District Court to be seen only by a judge. He chose to proceed with the district court for this case.

Representing him on the day was solicitor Brian Larkin, who told sitting court Judge Miriam Walsh that the man was sorry for what he did and got caught up in the moment.

Mr Larkin also told the court that all of the stolen items had been recovered.

Not because he handed them back, said sitting Judge Miriam Walsh.

When hearing the evidence, Judge Walsh explained the economic repercussions of Mr Djelailias crime and said:

Kildare Village is an outlet with items reduced by designers. People come because they like to enjoy designer items at a reduced rate.

Judge Walsh told the court of the increase in prices as a result of crimes of theft at the outlet:

The rest of us have to suffer as a result of this. Because of this items are going to be at a higher price. Judge Walsh then asked Mr Larkin why his client had decided to steal from the outlets that day.

Ive heard everything from drugs to homelessness, but this guy had work, she said about the defendant.

Mr Larkin explained that the defendant experienced a lapse of judgement while at the scene with another man who was allegedly stealing alongside him.

With that, Judge Walsh made her decision that Mr Djelailia was to enter a bond of 1500, with 1000 in cash to the court.
ACCORDING to figures released by the CSO the number of convictions for rape and sexual assault recorded across Kildare rose from 53 in 2003 to 124 in 2024.

These figures show a shocking 134% increase in two decades.

Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurcu, a former family law barrister, called these figures a wakeup call to action and added that it is clear we are dealing with an epidemic of violence against women.

The Ireland South MEP is calling for a complete review of sexual violence sentencing in the country as a whole, as well as other important measures.

Further figures released by the Irish Prison Service show that as of May 31, 2025, there were 800 sexual offenders in Irish prisons costing the state almost 80m annually to house, which is 16% more than May 31 of 2024 when 692 sexual offenders were in jail in the Irish prison system.

According to Miss Ni Mhurchu, these figures raise concerns about the Irish prison systems ability to rehabilitate sexual offenders. She also brought attention to the 80m spend every year to house sex offenders without adequate treatment.

Ni Mhurchu added that in August of 2024, just eight sex offenders were participating in the Building Better Lives programme, an Irish prison service treatment programme for sex offenders.

However, only six sex offenders completed the programme before it was eventually cancelled in October of 2024, which was eventually replaced with a new model of intervention called New Chapters.

MEP Ni Mhurcu has requested a meeting with Minister for Justice, Jim OCallaghan, to discuss this crisis and what Ni Mhurcu called the dramatic rise in violence against women.

She is calling for a nationwide review of sentencing for violent crimes against women, advanced training for circuit and district court judges for these cases, more consultation rooms for victims in Irish courts and a more victim-centred approach, a thorough investigation into the dramatic increases in these crimes, and more focused measures to rehabilitate sexual offenders in prison.
A nature-friendly farm in Kilkenny will open to the public on August 31 for a one-day event organised by Farming For Nature.

The Inside The Gate event is designed to boost public understanding of the importance of nature-friendly farming, including practices that support healthy soils, clean water, diverse habitats and sustainable food production.

Highbank Farm, in Cuffesgrange, will host an event from 11am to 2pm, with capacity for up to 30 people to tour the farm.

Visitors can board a train which goes through the farm, showcasing its organic orchards, ponds, woods, hedgerows and tillage fields.

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Farmers Rod and Julie Calder-Potts have built two lakes onsite, planted forestry and sowed pollinator friendly flowers to encourage solitary bees amongst other insects. There is a diverse range of wildlife on the farm, as well as a wide range of insects and fungi.

The event is free to attend but capacity is limited. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis, book online on www.tickettailor.com/events/farmingfornature.



For more information and to register , visit the Farming for Nature website on www.farmingfornature.ie

TAP HERE FOR MORE WHAT'S ON IN KILKENNY

Inside the Gate is supported by RTE Ear to the Ground presenter Ella McSweeney, who is encouraging as many people as possible to sign up for a visit on August 31, describing the event as a really valuable opportunity for young and old, from all backgrounds across Ireland, to spend time on some of the most nature-rich farms in the country.
The Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Intermediate and JJ Kavanagh Junior Hurling Leagues returned for match week two last weekend with games across the county.

In Group A of the intermediate grade, James Stephens (The Village) marched on to a second win of the campaign, putting in a strong second half showing to brush off a resilient Tullogher Rosbercon 1-20 to 0-15 and move to second spot in Group A behind Dunnamaggin.

In the same group, a strong second half when favoured by the breeze saw Dunnamaggin secure a comfortable victory over St Martins. The Muckalee men were more than a match for the winners in the opening half but fell away by the finish 1-24 to 2-12.

READ NEXT: Kilkenny Teams of the Week are revealed - Do you agree with the selection?

Meanwhile, a goal in each half from Killian Hogan and Robbie Doherty gave Mooncoin the edge as they claimed a 12-point victory over Blacks and Whites 2-23 to 0-17.

In Group B, St Lachtains recovered from a very slow start to claim their opening victory on their return to the intermediate grade at the expense of Young Irelands on a 2-18 to 3-13 scoreline. Gowran looked to be in full control when Diarmuid Langton on the double and Ted Drea both scored goals inside the opening quarter but that still wasnt enough to claim victory in Muckalee with St Lachtains battling back in style. Goals in response from Liam Hickey and Cian Dawson helped turn the tide in their favour.

Elsewhere, two first half goals from the sharp Brian McDonald proved the ultimate launchpad for Danesfort in their victory over a battling Fenians side 2-17 to 1-17. The fact that Danesfort struck 2-10 from play over the course of the hour while their opponents managed just 0-4 from play in the same period of time was also a major difference between the teams.

The group began on Friday night as the Rower Inistioge won a thrilling contest against Carrickshock. Adam Franks (Carrickshock) and Eoghan Lyng (Rower Inistioge) were the key figures for their teams with Lyng getting his side over the line in the finish 1-17 to 1-15.

FOR MORE KILKENNY GAA NEWS, CLICK HERE
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, during which, in particular, they discussed increased defense support and reliable security guarantees.

"An important and meaningful meeting with Chancellor Friedrich Merz... We talked about our recent contacts with partners and further interaction with allies, increased defense support, Germany's participation in the new PURL initiative, strengthening Ukrainian air defense with two additional Patriot systems and missiles for them, reliable security guarantees," Zelenskyy said in Telegram.

He thanked the Chancellor for organizing a joint teleconference between U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of European countries.

"Thank you for supporting Ukraine and for organizing today's meetings: the online meeting of leaders and the meeting of the Coalition of the Willing. Thank you for showing sincere unity and leadership now," Zelenskyy said.

He said the fate of achieving peace in Ukraine requires continuing pressure on Russia.

"We have a common understanding: as long as Russia does not take any steps towards peace, it is necessary to continue pressure on it and strengthen support for Ukraine. And this is very important. I sincerely appreciate all the assistance from Germany and our relations, which give real results in protecting life," Zelenskyy said.
Ukraine's allies are assessing the possibility of gradually easing sanctions against Russia if a full ceasefire can be agreed upon, Sky News reports, citing sources close to the country currently presiding over the EU Council.

They hope that a 15-day ceasefire can be reached immediately (the sanctions will still be in place for this period of time), before a more structured pause in fighting in Ukraine can take hold, the message reads.

It is noted that the plan is that sanctions will be reinstated if any violations occur.

Separately, Italian government sources told Sky News they would press Donald Trump to include Europe in his discussions with Vladimir Putin over Ukraine during their video call today.

"He's been asking European countries to invest more on military spending, so we must be involved in these decisions", an Italian diplomat explained.

The sources added during the call Italy will underline the need of clear military, economic and political guarantees for Ukraine.
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his intention to hold a trilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin as soon as possible if his planned meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday turns out to be successful.

"The second meeting  if the first one goes okey, we'll have a quick second one. I'd like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskyy, and myself, if they would like to have me there," Trump said during a speech at the Kennedy Center in Washington on Wednesday.

He expressed hope that this second meeting "will be more productive than the first one, because the first one is that I'm going to find out where we are and what we're doing."

At the same time, Trump said there may not be a second meeting if he does not get answers to important questions during the summit in Alaska. "There may not be a second meeting, because if I feel that it is not appropriate to have it, because I did not get the answers that we have to have, then we are not going to have a second meeting," the U.S. president said.

He highly praised the consultations with European leaders, which took place in the format of a video conference on Wednesday, in particular, mentioning the conversation with Zelensky. "We had a very good call. He was on the call, President Zelensky was on the call. I would rate it a 10. You know, very, very friendly," Trump said.

As reported, last Friday, Trump announced that his meeting with Putin would take place on August 15 in Alaska. In particular, he stated his intention to agree on the return of part of the occupied territory to Ukraine, and also stated his intention to agree on certain "territorial swaps."

The leaders of the 26 member states of the European Union approved a joint statement in support of Ukraine on the eve of the meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska. Only Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban did not sign the document.
COLUMBIA  Tuesday marked the first court hearing for the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of former University of Missouri student Riley Strain.

Strain was on a fraternity formal with the MU Delta Chi chapter in Nashville, Tennessee, where he went missing on March 8, 2024, and was found dead on March 22, 2024, according to previous KOMU 8 reporting.

Strain was 22 and a senior at MU when he died.

The lawsuit was filed in Boone County on March 21, 2025, by Strain's parents and step-parents, totaling four plaintiffs.

The attorneys of the plaintiffs listed 32 defendants in the original petition, but on Tuesday, only 22 appeared. Six individuals, plus John and Jane Does, have not responded.

The lawsuit alleged six counts. Counts one, four, five and six were negligence, count two is vicarious liability against Delta Chi as the actual agency, and count three is vicarious liability against Delta Chi as the apparent agency.

Counts one, two and three pertain to Delta Chi Fraternity, count four pertains to BCC Missouri LLC, count five pertains to individual Delta Chi officers and members, and count six pertains to the Board of Chapter Advisors.

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The petition does not name specific individuals, which multiple defendants pointed out. According to attorneys present Tuesday, the petition repeatedly mentioned fraternity members without naming them, which led to one attorney calling to dismiss count five.

1:33 Family of Riley Strain files wrongful death lawsuit against fraternity Riley Strain was found dead in Nashville, Tennessee, after going missing on a trip with fraternity members.

The lawsuit alleges that these unnamed members saw Strain intoxicated and struggling, but did not help him. The lawsuit alleges these members were with Strain at the final bar of the night when he was kicked out, and it says those members stayed at the bar after Strain was kicked out.

Attorneys for both the plaintiffs and defendants argued over whether Strain's fraternity brothers had a legal duty to protect him since he was not a minor. Attorneys for the defendants argued that Strain's fraternity brothers did not have a legal duty to protect him  the defense argued that such a legal duty is not recognized for biological brothers, either.

Additionally, attorneys for the defendants and plaintiffs argued whether or not the hearing and trial should take place in Tennessee rather than Missouri. Attorneys for the defendants argued that since Strain's death happened in Tennessee, then the case should be tried there. Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued that since Strain consumed Jello shots that were made in Boone County, the planning for the formal was done in Boone County and that Strain was coerced to go on the trip while he was in Boone County, the case should remain in Missouri.

Finally, there was debate between all attorneys regarding the status of the lawsuit for individuals who are not residents of Missouri. Attorneys for several defendants asked to categorize the defendants into residents and non-residents, creating a debate on how to categorize the college students' residency based off the University of Missouri's standards.

Judge Joshua Devine said there will be a ruling in the near future but didn't give a definitive date. He also gave the defendants until Aug. 19 to file any reply suggestions filed by the plaintiff Monday.
Uvalde County and school district release troves of records about the Robb Elementary shooting that left 21 people dead
U.S. President Donald Trump said Russia faces very serious consequences if his meeting in Alaska with Vladimir Putin is unsuccessful, he said during a press conference at the Kennedy Center.

When asked by a reporter whether there would be consequences for Putin and Russia if he did not agree to stop the war on Friday, the U.S. president replied briefly: "There will be very serious consequences."

Later, when asked by a journalist whether Trump hoped to convince Putin to stop striking civilians in Ukraine, Trump replied that he had a lot of good conversations with Putin, after which missiles were aimed at cities and buildings, so he was not sure that he would succeed.
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Merz: Negotiations with our friends, partners going very well, there is hope for peace in Ukraine

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/MerzCDU

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz positively assessed the negotiations of European leaders, in particular, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as their consultations with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska scheduled for Friday, and expressed hope for an end to the war in Ukraine.

"Negotiations with our friends and partners are going very well. There is hope for peace in Ukraine. We want Donald Trump to succeed in Alaska, and we, the Europeans, are doing everything to set this meeting in the right direction," Merz said on X on Wednesday.

As reported, on Wednesday, August 13, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met with German Chancellor Merz in Berlin. The leaders took part in a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and U.S. President Donald Trump. This was followed by a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing.
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The meeting of the leaders of the Coalition of the Willing demonstrated a high level of unity, said Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schooff.

"Given the meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday, today we held a digital meeting with the leaders of the Coalition of the Willing, President Zelenskyy and J.D. Vance. This conversation demonstrated a high level of unity and broad agreement on important principles. It is good that the United States has taken the lead in negotiating a ceasefire. For real negotiations, it is important that Ukraine joins them. In addition, it is important to maintain pressure on Russia," he wrote on the social network X on Wednesday.

The head of government also noted that the Netherlands, together with our international partners, continue to provide "full support" to Ukraine.

"Meanwhile, the Netherlands, together with our international partners, continue to provide full support to Ukraine so that it can continue to defend itself against Russian aggression. Everything is aimed at achieving a sustainable and fair peace in Ukraine and for Ukraine," Schooff noted.
US President Donald Trump says European leaders are seeking to sign a deal to end the war in Ukraine, without providing details of the agreement.

Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done, Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social on Wednesday before an online summit with European leaders on ending the war in Ukraine.

At the same time, he accused a number of media outlets that criticize his planned meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday and call it a victory for Putin.

Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!). If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal  They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country. But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!! Trump said.
Louise Walsh

A funfair owner who managed to stop local authorities securing an injunction against his festival operations has described his success as "a milestone for showpeople everywhere."

Louth County Council had tried to get a High Court injunction against Killian Allen, who continued to run his 10-day festival in Blackrock despite only having permission for a three-day event this year.

The local man has held the 10-day fun event in the village for the last 15 years after taking over the funfair which has been held at the site for over 50 years.

However this year the local authorities only allowed him to hold the fair for three days, which he says was not feasible and would have finished his business.

Mr Allen claims he has been trying to engage with the council for the last six months to find a resolution but has been largely ignored.

Killian Allen

Despite the order, he moved on site with the funfair last weekend and received legal letters from the council which rescinded him of all permission and advised him that the council was to seek a High Court injunction.

"I heard that the council were on their way to the High Court on Tuesday, while I was working in Kildare," said Mr Allen.

"So I drove up in my shorts and T-shirt and represented myself, without a solicitor or a barrister. Thankfully I had a fair judge who saw the passion I have for the funfair.

"This case was not about the money but about the keeping the fun and festivity for my kids and their kids to have the same experience as we had growing up.

"I made a stand against the local authorities and it is a milestone for showpeople everywhere. Funfairs and circuses are protected under Unesco and should be recognised and supported."

"I've been involved in the funfairs since I was six years old and I personally feel that it is important to stand up for Irish traditions and cultures as a lot of them are being lost.

"I think it is important to learn from this that everyone needs to work together in a community and, after talking to local businesses, I think 10 days is too long for a festival and three days is too short so maybe six days is the answer.

"But for now, the funfair is open in Blackrock for the full 10 days, until this Sunday and I hope everyone will come out and support it."

In a statement, Louth County Council said: "Following a legal hearing on Tuesday, 12th August, Louth County Council reached agreement with K Allen & Sons Ltd regarding the operation of the Blackrock Funfair.

"The agreement provides Louth County Council with the protection of the Courts to ensure full compliance with the terms of the licence.

"Under the agreed terms, the festival organisers will operate in a limited capacity, will be fully responsible for all clean-up obligations, have clarified and confirmed insurance and indemnities, and must maintain access for council and emergency services.

"Over the next five days, Louth County Council will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all conditions are met."
THE lack of critical infrastructure in towns and villages around Laois will stall much needed housing developments.

Thats according to Independent Republican TD Brian Stanley who said that towns such as Rathdowney, Portarlington, Mountrath, Ballylinan and Stradbally have reached or exceeded capacity in relation to water supply.

He said: Mountmellick and Graiguecullen have almost reached capacity limits in terms of sewage/wastewater capacity. Borris-in-Ossory, Ballinakill and The Swan have reached their limits in terms of both water supply and wastewater treatment.

Uisce Eireann has not increased the water supply capacity in any Laois town since it came into being 11 years ago, despite the billions of euros that it has received. Any significant housing development will be held back if service capacity is not increased across these locations in Laois.

The Portlaoise based TD said: Its essential that wastewater and sewage capacity is upgraded in the coming years. The funding of projects in the National Development Plan is to be announced shortly and must include water and electricity infrastructure in Laois.

While the announcement by Uisce Eireann of improvement works to Ballyroan sewage treatment scheme is welcome, almost all other Laois towns and villages have infrastructure deficits.

Portlaoise also has a electricity capacity issue which the ESB informed me they are working to improve. However, information that was recently given about the Sand Wood Estate in Portlaoise was incorrect in stating that it had been held up by the ESB. In fact, it had been held up by the developer who didnt have the required work in place, including bases for transformers and other civil works completed. This was clarified at the time by the ESB who clearly stated that they have been ready to go ahead with connections since June. But were informed by the builders it would take another three weeks before they were ready.

Deputy Stanley said: There is a huge demand for private, social and affordable to buy housing schemes across the county. Unless the Government include Laois in their funding plans for infrastructure and our towns and villages get their slice of the National Development Plan funding, housing in Laois will be stalled.
A trilateral meeting between Ukrainian and US Presidents, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump with Vladimir Putin, is being prepared for the end of next week, the location of which is being agreed upon by the American side, CBS News reported on Wednesday, citing its own sources.

The publication says that two sources familiar with the talks told CBS News on Tuesday that the USA is working on a location for a meeting between Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy as early as the end of the next week.

As reported, Trump announced last Friday that he would meet with Putin in Alaska on August 15. In particular, he stated his intention to negotiate the return of part of the occupied territory of Ukraine, and also stated his intention to negotiate certain "territory swaps."
MEMBERS of the Yarn Bombing Mountmellick group have been somewhat quieter than usual over the past two years due to the loss of three of their cherished members Brid OMahony, Anne Blanche and Trish Kelley.

In their memory and honour, the group has decided to take part in the Relay for Life, just as determined and hopeful as they would have wanted us to be.

In a post on their Facebook page the group had this to say about their three colleagues: They were far more than just fellow crafters. They were friends, companions on many yarn-fuelled adventures and irreplaceable members of our team. We are just not the same without them.

Brid loved to knit and sing. Shed often do both at the same time. Trish, our resident nurse, often tut tutted at our cake consumption but had the best sense of humour and a quick wit that lit up every meeting. Anne was another gifted knitter whose beautiful creations often adorned her own windows, bringing colour and charm to all who passed by. We miss them all so much. Yet their spirit continues to inspire us.

The Relay for Life Laois event takes place in Emo Court and Parklands on Saturday 16 August from 1am through to the Candle of Hope ceremony at dusk.

Last year, Yarnbombing Mountmellick raised an incredible 701 for Relay for Life Laois, through the sale of pocket hearts and a wreath raffle. They are hoping to do the same this year with hearts and ribbons for sale, with all proceeds going to the Irish Cancer Society.

The group said: We will walk and celebrate Brid, Anne and Trish, while supporting those still on their cancer journey.

Please come along. Whether you buy a heart, a ribbon, walk a lap or simply stand with us, you will be part of something deeply meaningful. Together, we honour our friends, support a vital cause and keep their memory bright.
Exhibition on ancient Egyptian civilization opens at Shanghai Museum

Xinhua) 10:35, August 13, 2025

A woman visits the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A child selects goods at a cultural and creative product shop at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

A girl looks at exhibits at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Artists perfom an Egyptian-style dance at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

People visit the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

Visitors take part in an interactive game at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua)

The new book titled "Pyramids in China" is released during a launch ceremony at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

People visit the exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt" at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua)

A visitor poses for Egyptian-style photos at a cultural and creative product shop at the Shanghai Museum at night in Shanghai, east China, Aug. 11, 2025. The exhibition, titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opens 24 hours a day from Aug. 11 to 17 at the Shanghai Museum. During the 168-hour carnival, there will also be new books releases, Egyptian dancing performances, interactive games and cultural and creative production promotions here. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
2025 has seen an average of one water outage per month for Kildare residents who rely on water supply from the Hill of Allen reservoir, making it the worst year for disruptions in recent times.

Thats according to information released by Uisce Eireann to Kildare North TD Aidan Farrelly, which also revealed that failures and leaks have resulted in residents having to endure 21 outages since January of 2023.

Only three of the outages were planned, to conduct work to improve the system, while burst mains accounted for 13 of the disruptions.

READ NEXT: Kildare TY students urged to take part in charity work in South Africa

An outage on July 12 of this year was done to conserve water, while two outages, on January 24 and May 17 of this year were attributed to Reservoir Interruptions.

The information provided to Deputy Farrelly estimates that an average of almost 3,000 premises were affected by each outage.

The most commonly affected areas were Coill Dubh, Prosperous, Derrinturn, Kilmeage, Robertstown, Allenwood and surrounds, Ballyhagan, Ballyteague, Killina, Lullymore and Ticknevin.

This information is proof of what Kildare residents already know  a failure of Uisce Eireann and successive governments to properly resource a water supply system over many years to meet the needs of a growing population in Kildare, Deputy Farrelly said in response to the information.

Like many problems facing Kildare people, this is the result of a failure by various state bodies and successive governments to fully appreciate that there are at least 120,000 people now living in our county who were not here in the 1990s  and the population is likely to double again in the next 30 years.

The government and Uisce Eireann need to prepare for that expected increase now rather than being surprised when it happens  with water outages becoming even more common than they do now.

People are sick and tired of it at this stage. We have had some very hot days this summer which makes it challenging enough for families and businesses as it is. Thats not to mention farmers whose cattle need to drink between 40 and 60 litres of water a day.

These outages are more than an inconvenience. They can make life very difficult.

Deputy Farrelly is a member of the Public Accounts Committee and - at his prompting - the committee is set to invite Uisce Eireann to appear when it resumes sitting after the summer recess.
Locals are holding a protest this week in opposition to a 3km cycleway on the main road between Castledermot and Kilcullen in south Kildare.

Kildare County Council said the 1.6m pilot project - funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland - went through a full public consultation process.

Works have already begun to install cycle lanes into the existing hard shoulders of the R448 between Moone and Timolin.

The council said the project will improve road safety and create a link between Moone and Timolin.

However members of the local community dubbed the plan the road to nowhere and claimed it is unnecessary and a waste of public money.

A protest is being planned in Moone at 10am on Friday.

Locals claimed that there is not enough room on the new carriageways for farming machinery or HGVs to pass safely.

They said a photograph on the R448 taken today illustrated this.

Kildare Co Council said the scheme went through a full statutory process, including public consultation, and was amended in response to local submissions.

Surveys will be carried out on the completed cycleway to assess construction, road safety, motorist behaviour, and usage.

The results of these surveys will guide the rollout of the National Cycle Network which is aimed at delivering safer facilities for existing cyclists and pedestrians.

A council spokesperson said: A robust procurement process was carried out by Kildare County Council to appoint a contractor to carry out the construction of this pilot project.

This utilised an existing NTA Framework of pre-approved contractors familiar with the delivery of similar projects. Following a rigorous tender evaluation process the Most Economically Advantageous Contractor was identified and appointed.

It is anticipated that post opening surveys and audits will take place on the completed scheme to gather the data to inform this evaluation.

The outcomes of this pilot will provide useful insights to inform the roll out of the National Cycle Network while also providing an improved facility for existing users.

Labour Party TD Mark Wall told the Leader that he has spoken to council officials on a number of occasions.

He added that he will be following up in coming weeks on the cost of the project.

Mr Hilliard of the Moone & Timolin Positive Action Group claimed: The project is an attempt to make a perfectly good road hazardous.

We are organising a protest on August 15 which will assemble at 10am at Moone Parish Church.

He further claimed: This is being rammed down our throats.

The council said that the plans for the scheme were advertised in local newspapers and were on placed on public display and published on the councils website.

A total of nine submissions were received from members of the public between May and June 2024.

Gardai also had no objections to the proposed pilot scheme, the Council said.

READ ALSO: Tributes paid after Kildare parents mourn loss of baby girl.
A Kilkenny mother says she is terrified for her five-year-old daughters future after being told the child may have to wait up to a year for an MRI scan, despite suffering daily headaches and migraines caused by scoliosis.

Carolann Walsh knows only too well what long delays can mean. In 2009, as a teenager, she was featured in the Kilkenny People when cutbacks delayed her planned spinal fusion surgery. At the time, she couldnt even get an X-ray.

READ NEXT: Calls for Simon Harris to resign after young boy dies after waiting years for surgery

It took media attention and a huge public outcry before I finally got my surgery date, she said. That was September 2009, and it changed my life. But now, 16 years later, Im fighting the exact same fight. This time for my own child.

Carolanns daughter was recently diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves abnormally.

In her case, pressure on the spine is causing persistent headaches, sometimes escalating into migraines.

The family has been told it will be eight months to a year before she can have the MRI scan needed to guide treatment.

I am terrified for her future, said Ms Walsh. Ive lived this. I know what untreated scoliosis can do.

Ive already got one child with generalised epilepsy, another with sensory issues, and now my middle child is facing what I went through.

How can it be that nothing has changed after all these years?

She is now calling for urgent action to address the growing backlog of children waiting for spinal assessments and treatment.

No child should have to wait in pain, she said. No parent should have to beg the system for care. If the health service could find a way in 2009, it can find a way now.

READ NEXT: RIP: Young mother of nine children including a four month old dies suddenly

Earlier this week, the mother of a young boy with scoliosis who was failed by the Irish healthcare system has called for the resignation of Simon Harris who was the Minister for Health at the time.

Harvey Morrison Sherratt (9) waited seven years for scoliosis surgery, and by the time of the surgery at the end of 2024, his curvature had reached 130 degrees. He sadly passed away on July 29 after a short illness.

Last August, Harvey's mother, Gillian Sherratt said that her son was removed from the scoliosis surgery waiting list without their knowledge.

When Harvey died on July 29 his heartbroken parents Gillian and Stephen announced Harvey's death saying "our little rockstar Harvey passed away in the arms of mum and dad."

They now call for the resignation of Simon Harris and for the board of Children's Health Ireland to be disbanded.

Scoliosis affects approximately 24 per cent of adolescents globally, with the condition most commonly developing between ages 10 and 18.

In milder cases, intervention may not be needed, but more severe onset may require bracing, specialist monitoring, or surgery.

In Ireland, the situation is increasingly alarming. As of September 2024, 264 children were waiting for scoliosis surgery at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI).

Back in March, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill warned that the country is nowhere near delivering timely and comprehensive care for young scoliosis patients.

READ NEXT: Man in his 20s dies in tragic drowning accident in Kerry

MRI and other diagnostic backlogs are widespread. National standards suggest clinically urgent scans should occur within one month, and routine scans within three.

However, on-the-ground delays, especially for spinal MRIs, far exceed those guidelines.

As a result, families are seeing worsening conditions while waiting, and advocacy groups continue to highlight the urgent need for reform and investment.

For parents like Carolann, each month of waiting is not just a delay on a medical list, but a daily reminder that their childs future mobility and quality of life hang in the balance.
Fota Wildlife Park has announced the birth of two endangered red panda cubs and are now looking for the public to help name them.

The cubs were born on Saturday, 7 June at the Cork-based conservation centre to parents Suzi and Grga.

Suzi, the cubs' mother, is a three-year-old red panda who arrived at Fota Wildlife Park from Berlin Zoo and Grga, the cubs' father, is seven-years-old and came from Zagreb Zoo in Croatia in June 2019.

As red pandas are listed as endangered species, Suzi and Grga are part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), which is a collaborative initiative among European zoos and wildlife parks to ensure the survival of threatened species through coordinated breeding efforts.

The two cubs are not yet visible to the public as they are currently still in their nesting box, sleeping and nursing with their mother.

READ NEXT: Cracker of a day! Hottest county in Ireland revealed following Tuesday's sun blast

Fota Wildlife Park said within the next three weeks, the cubs should start to explore their habitat outside of the nesting box for brief periods in the early morning or late evening under the supervision of their mother.

The park has also called on the public to help name the new cubs. People can submit their suggestions on the park's website and even be in with a chance of winning one of two conservation annual passes.

Commenting on the announcement, Lead Ranger at the park Julien Fonteneau said: "Were absolutely delighted to announce the births of the two red pandas. Its been two years since we last welcomed red panda cubs at Fota Wildlife Park. Their mother, Suzi, is a first-time mum and has taken to her new role with ease.

"Shes currently being very protective, displaying typical red panda maternal behaviour by keeping the cubs secure, while diligently feeding and grooming them. Being involved in the care of an endangered species is one of the most meaningful aspects of the animal care work at Fota Wildlife Park. We hope that the red panda births will raise awareness around species and biodiversity loss and will inspire and educate the visiting public and future generations."

He added: "Although the cubs remain mostly hidden for now, visitors might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of them when Suzi occasionally moves them between nesting boxes. Over the next few months, and as they grow more confident, the cubs are expected to make brief appearances during quieter periods of the day, closely supervised by Suzi."
Sligo-Leitrim TD Martin Kenny is calling for the return of energy credits as part of a cost-of-living package in the next Budget amid record numbers of households in energy arrears.

It has been confirmed that energy credits to help with electricity and heating costs will not be included in the 2026 Budget, despite Ireland having some of the highest energy prices in Europe.

This comes as Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan recently obtained figures showing that 301,379 households are now in energy arrears which is the highest number ever recorded. Of these, 176,449 households have been in arrears for over 90 days, another record high.

In addition, the total value of the arrears was at 466.46, up 49.8 percent since January 2022, Deputy Kenny said. All of this leaves the total arrears for households across Ireland at 140.50 million. Along with this huge financial burden, there are more families than ever before that are having their electricity cut off, he warned.

Many households in Leitrim have been struggling with energy bills, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic, with some families referred to charities such as St Vincent de Paul and Barnardos for help covering their bills as costs soar.

READ NEXT: Leitrim households turning to charities for energy bill support as national arrears hit record high

Deputy Kenny said the new figures show the true scale of the Governments failure to tackle energy prices and provide adequate support.

He also highlighted that in May there were 161 disconnections, bringing the total for this year so far to 733.

At the same point in 2023, the year-to-date total was 154 disconnections, representing an increase of about 375 percent.

The crippling costs of electricity is putting families under huge pressure at a time when so many are already struggling, he continued.

Despite this, the government is ruling out energy credits or any other cost-of-living supports as part of the upcoming budget.

READ NEXT: Drones deployed in Longford as search continues for missing Mohill man

He accused Fianna Fail and Fine Gael of treating the cost-of-living crisis as a buzzword with no real impact.

For the government to turn their back on ordinary people when so many are struggling is nothing short of scandalous, said Deputy Kenny.

They need to come to their senses and give families and businesses the support that they need. The budget must include energy credits as part of a cost-of-living package, he concluded.
Motorola Solutions finalise l'acquisition de Silvus Technologies Holding Inc.





Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) a finalise l'acquisition de Silvus Technologies Holdings Inc. ( Silvus ), leader mondial des reseaux mobiles ad hoc (MANET) critiques, base a Los Angeles, en Californie.

La technologie MANET de Silvus est specifiquement concue pour soutenir les operations sur le terrain dans les environnements les plus conflictuels et difficiles. Elle permet l'etablissement de communications hautement securisees pour la transmission de donnees, de video et de voix, sans dependre d'infrastructures fixes. Leurs appareils s'interconnectent afin de constituer des reseaux etendus, evolutifs et autocicatrisants, capables de s'adapter a une mobilite continue. Ces reseaux mobiles robustes connectent les personnels, les materiels et divers noeuds a distance ou a grande echelle, tout en prenant en charge de maniere efficace des applications gourmandes en bande passante telles que la video, les capteurs et les systemes de drones.

 Les solutions innovantes de Silvus pour drones et systemes sans pilote sont reconnues dans les environnements de defense les plus exigeants au monde. Elles fournissent des applications essentielles a la protection des frontieres et a la securite publique.  declare Greg Brown, president-directeur general de Motorola Solutions.  Leurs capacites completent parfaitement nos technologies LMR (Radio Mobile Terrestre) et video, et nous sommes impatients de les proposer a un plus grand nombre de clients a travers le monde. 

Les technologies autonomes, telles que les drones, les vehicules et les robots, sont de plus en plus utilisees pour etablir une plus grande distance entre les soldats et les menaces potentielles. La technologie de Silvus permet aux operateurs humains de controler ces systemes en toute securite avec une latence extremement faible. Elle contribue ainsi a sauver des vies et a ameliorer les decisions tactiques.

Silvus compte parmi ses clients des organismes de defense, des fabricants de systemes autonomes, des services de renseignement, des forces de l'ordre et des entreprises a l'echelle mondiale. Motorola Solutions vise a renforcer la visibilite de Silvus en tirant parti de sa presence internationale et de ses relations de longue date avec les gouvernements et les acteurs de la securite publique dans de nombreux pays.

 En collaborant avec Babak et l'equipe Silvus, nous avons pu constater comment leur expertise a permis de developper une technologie de communication veritablement revolutionnaire , declare Erik Fagan, associe et responsable des technologies industrielles chez TJC.  Ils ont construit une entreprise exceptionnelle, repondant a un besoin essentiel, et nous sommes ravis de voir leur prochain chapitre, couronne de succes, se poursuivre avec Motorola Solutions, leader mondial de la surete et de la securite. 

 Nous avons toujours respecte le leadership de Motorola Solutions , declare Babak Daneshrad, directeur general de Silvus Technologies.  Nos deux entreprises sont resolument tournees vers l'innovation qui vise a rendre le monde plus sur. La collaboration de nos equipes d'ingenieurs specialises renforce notre capacite a concevoir des solutions plus performantes, afin de repondre aux besoins d'un nombre croissant de clients a travers le monde. Je suis extremement optimiste quant a l'avenir que nous construirons ensemble avec Motorola Solutions. 

De plus amples informations sur l'acquisition seront communiquees lors de la conference telephonique trimestrielle de Motorola Solutions avec les analystes financiers, le 7 aout a 16 h CT (17 h ET). La conference telephonique sera diffusee en ligne en direct et une rediffusion sera disponible sur www.motorolasolutions.com/investors.

Telechargez la video et les images a partir du dossier de presse.

Transaction Terms

Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the consideration for the Silvus acquisition includes $4.4 billion in upfront consideration, comprising approximately $4.38 billion in cash (subject to customary adjustments) and approximately $20 million in restricted stock to certain employee equity holders. The terms of the purchase agreement also include the ability to earn earnout consideration of up to $600 million in the aggregate based on business performance over consecutive twelve-month periods ending in 2027 and 2028.

About Motorola Solutions | Solving for safer

Safety and security are at the heart of everything we do at Motorola Solutions. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions foster the collaboration that's critical for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses, and ultimately, safer nations. Learn more about our commitment to innovating for a safer future for us all at www.motorolasolutions.com.

About TJC

TJC, formerly known as The Jordan Company, has worked for more than 40 years with CEOs, founders and entrepreneurs across a range of industries including Consumer & Healthcare, Diversified Industrials, Industrial Technology, Aerospace & Defense, Logistics & Supply Chain and Technology & Infrastructure. With $32.0 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2025, TJC is managed by a senior leadership team that has invested together for over 23 years on over 85 investments. TJC has offices in New York, Chicago, Miami and Stamford. For more information, please visit www.tjclp.com.

Motorola Solutions Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable federal securities law. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and generally include words such as "believes," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimates" and similar expressions. Motorola Solutions can give no assurance that any actual or future results or events discussed in these statements will be achieved. Any forward-looking statements represent Motorola Solutions' views only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing Motorola Solutions' views as of any subsequent date. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements contained in this release. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, expected benefits of the transaction to Motorola Solutions and the Silvus business, the ability to expand the reach of Silvus' offerings, and our ability to integrate and combine the two companies. Motorola Solutions cautions the reader that the risks and uncertainties, including those in Part I Item 1A of Motorola Solutions' 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K and in its other U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, which are available for free on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and on Motorola Solutions' website at www.motorolasolutions.com/investors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated or predicted in the forward-looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties cannot be controlled by Motorola Solutions and factors that may impact forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, Motorola Solutions' ability to successfully integrate and operate Silvus and realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition. Motorola Solutions undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement or risk factor, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

13 aout 2025 a 03:00

Communique envoye leet diffuse par :
On a factory floor in E China, wider story of Chinese smart manufacturing unfolds

13:53, August 13, 2025 By Li Junjie ( People's Daily

In a workshop in Wuhu, east China's Anhui province, rows of industrial robots stood in neat formation, their mechanical arms poised mid-air, awaiting final inspection before rolling off the production line.

Nearby, workers moved with practiced rhythm - lifting, pairing, assembling - and with each passing hour, another robot was completed and ready for delivery.

This is the manufacturing and delivery center of EFORT Intelligent Robot Co., Ltd., a leading player in China's rapidly expanding robotics industry. In the first half of this year, the country, already the world's largest producer of robots, recorded a 35.6 percent year-on-year increase in industrial robot output.

"We now produce about 2,000 robots each month," said Zhang Fei, head of production management at EFORT. "That was our total annual sales five years ago."

"Last year, we sold 16,000 robots. In the first half of this year alone, sales reached around 10,000 units, with full-year figures expected to surpass 20,000," added Shang Xuran, EFORT's welding product director.

Photo shows the exhibition booth of EFORT at Automatica 2025 held in Munich, Germany in June, 2025.

Diversifying applications, capturing new markets

EFORT's sales have increased eightfold in just four years, with growth projected to exceed 25 percent this year. Zhang Wei, EFORT's deputy general manager, attributes this momentum to diversification.

"In the past, most of our products went to photovoltaic companies. In recent years, we've expanded into robots for the automotive and home appliance industries," explained Zhang Wei, EFORT's deputy general manager.

He noted that China's trade-in policies have boosted demand for new energy vehicles, electronics, and household appliances, prompting manufacturers to expand production capacity and improve efficiency. This has created new opportunities for EFORT, while the Chinese government's push for intelligent manufacturing transformation has kept downstream demand high, enlarging the company's market.

Domestic innovation gains ground

Qianchao Intelligent Manufacturing (Wuhu) Co., Ltd., a producer of constant velocity drive shafts for automobiles, is among EFORT's long-term clients. In its workshops, handling robots shuttle back and forth between production lines and storage areas with precise coordination. "Of our 63 handling robots, 58 were supplied by EFORT," said Tang Liansheng, head of equipment at Qianchao.

Qianchao previously relied on imported handling robots, but high costs prompted it to test a domestically produced alternative from EFORT, whose factory is just 16 kilometers away.

"Tests showed that the stability and reliability of domestic robots were on par with imported models, while costing over 40 percent less. And given our proximity, any technical issues can be resolved quickly," Tang said. When building a new workshop, the company decisively placed a full order with EFORT.

"Improving performance and developing homegrown alternatives were only possible through joint innovation across the supply chain," said Zhang Lin, EFORT's platform product director.

One longstanding technical bottleneck in China's high-performance industrial robot production has been the design of gear train-driven joints. Working with an upstream supplier, EFORT spent 14 months overcoming this challenge. The resulting technology is now widely used on the production lines of Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturers such as BYD and Seres.

From domestic success to global reach

China's industrial robot exports reached second place globally last year, with first-half 2025 shipments surging 61.5% year-on-year. EFORT has been a key contributor, adapting advanced technologies into competitive products for overseas markets.

On one EFORT production line, six painting robots worked in concert with two door-opening robots to simulate painting the interiors and exteriors of car bodies.

"This paint application test line, commissioned last year, integrates over 30 years of Italian robotics expertise," explained Zhang Wei." After acquiring CMA Robotics, we spent two years fully absorbing their technology before developing our next-generation painting robots."

The new models have been deployed in China's rail transit, passenger vehicle, and auto parts industries, and are also used by international clients, including Italian automakers Maserati and Alfa Romeo.

"In June alone, we delivered more than 100 painting robots to clients," Zhang Wei said. Just 30 kilometers away, construction is underway on a "robot superfactory" with an annual production capacity of 100,000 units. Once operational, the facility will deploy intelligent robots to assemble other robots, bringing the concept of "robots building robots" closer to reality.

An engineer operates an intelligent welding robot developed by EFORT.

(Photos from the WeChat official account of EFORT)

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Zhong Wenxing)
Not only will Ibtissame Lachgar face prosecution by the Moroccan courts for "insulting Islam," but she will also await her trial behind bars. Brought before the prosecutor of the Rabat Court of First Instance on Tuesday, August 12, the 50-year-old feminist activist was held in police custody for 48 hours before being placed in pretrial detention at a prison near Arjate, where she spent her first night in a cell. The prosecutor's office had requested her arrest on Sunday, after she posted on X on July 31 a photo of herself wearing a T-shirt with the words "Allah is lesbian."

The decision by the public prosecutor's office, which came as a "shock" to the activist's family, opened a new chapter in a case that has been widely discussed in Morocco and abroad. Lachgar now faces up to five years in prison, depending on how the judge interprets Article 267-5 of the Moroccan Penal Code, which punishes anyone who offends Islam.

Yet the charges against her came as a surprise, given that the women's and LGBTQ+ rights activist had been posting photos of herself wearing the controversial T-shirt since 2022 without any interference from the justice system. In 2021, she even appeared wearing it during an interview broadcast on the French television channel LCI.

Threats of rape and lynching

Should yet another post have gone unnoticed? That is what those close to the feminist activist believe, suggesting that her upcoming trial may be linked to the "unexpected" outcry caused this time by the controversial image. A week after it was posted on X, there had been no reaction, until a wave of anonymous accounts  mostly affiliated with the so-called Moorish identity movement, which regularly conducts cyber-harassment campaigns against feminist circles  began targeting her on August 9, even tagging the General Directorate for National Security, the Moroccan national police. In recent days, Lachgar claimed to have received numerous threats of rape and lynching.

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Bare truths: Ecological protection of Qinghai Lake's naked carp

(People's Daily App) 16:09, August 13, 2025

Thousands of naked carps gather in dense shoals at the shore of China's largest lake during breeding season, creating a rare natural spectacle on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. People's Daily reporter Fan Liuyi takes viewers to Qinghai Lake to witness the migration and explore the conservation efforts that protect this unique species.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
IN ATHLACCA, Christine Hogan is known for her love of hurling matches and trad sessions but now shes about to be known for something else entirely.

The 35-year-old HR professional has swapped her small-village for a once-in-a-lifetime experiment in love, joining the cast of Love Is Blind: UK season two. Its a leap thats taken her outside her comfort zone, from chatting in the local pub to pouring her heart out in a high-tech pod in Sweden, all in the hope of finding love.

Im the definition of single, Christine said, recalling how she decided to apply for the dating show. All my friends are married with babies. Weve had lovely hen parties and baby showers and I just wanted to try something new for myself and push myself and just see if I could find a fairytale story myself.

Christine explained further: When you're in your 20s there's always a night out and you're meeting people constantly, whereas, when you get a little bit older, in your 30s, you're not really out as much.

READ MORE: RTE confirms broadcast date for highly-anticipated first series of The Traitors Ireland

The Limerick lady is also over using dating apps. I'm kind of sick of you match with somebody on a dating app and you're just a bloody pen pal.

Christine's friends and family were shocked she applied for the show. She said a lot of people in the area aren't familiar with the show but are really excited to tune in. We went to an Athlacca match there on Saturday evening and went into the local after just for a few drinks and it was lovely, the support from people.

The show wasnt a spur-of-the-moment decision for Christine as shed watched it before and was intrigued by its unusual premise  dating without ever seeing the person. It takes the looks out of it, she said. While I know it might seem a little bit mad, I just thought I wonder what that would be like.

From there, it was a whirlwind  interviews in London, meeting the producers, and eventually flying to Sweden, where the pods were filmed. It was really nerve-wracking. I've never ever done anything like it before, Christine said. Meeting the hosts, Emma and Matt Willis, was another highlight. The two of them are brilliant, they were so friendly.

Speaking about the criticism of this season's cast, the Limerick woman said some people disapproved of their ages. We're genuinely looking for someone. I genuinely want to meet someone. I think I'm ready at the age of 35... It's a real marriage so you need to be fully committed to it. She said when the cast was announced, people began bashing the participants appearances in videos on TikTok. It kind of hit me a little bit the first day because, just again, a new world, never experienced that before.

Away from the cameras, Christine leads an active, grounded life. She loves walks, the gym, and music, especially trad. She is the daughter of Neil and Ide Hogan and her mother is a gifted musician who can play every instrument under the sun according to Christine.

Although Christine once thought herself too cool to learn how to play an instrument, she has recently started taking lessons on the cajon instrument I just love to go and watch any kind of traditional Irish music. I'd love to be able to join in on those trad sessions. I will, someday, with the box, she added.

Love Is Blind: UK will air on Netflix over the course of three weeks with the first four episodes releasing this Wednesday, August 13.
THERE is no shortage of things to do in Limerick this week, with music festivals, movies in the Milk Market and, of course, the Cappamore Show keeping locals and visitors alike very busy!

The popular Live at the Docklands festival has returned to the banks of the Shannon, with a wide range of Irish and international artists.

The stage, already graced by Moncrieff on Saturday, August 9, will see performances from Picture This, The Saw Doctors, Block Rockin Beats and The Waterboys this week, with special guests throughout.

Next week, Kingfishr will be performing on Friday, August 22, with Qween and Kaiser Chiefs also taking to the stage.

Mick Dolan said he cant wait to welcome fans to what promises to be our biggest and best festival yet.

Limerick will be buzzing this August, and were ready to make it a summer to remember, said Mick.

READ MORE: Limerick will be 'buzzing' as popular music festival kicks off

Many of the shows are already sold out, though - at time of writing - tickets are still available for The Waterboys, Qween and Kaiser Chiefs. Fans can secure tickets for remaining acts via Dolans.ie and Ticketmaster.

Music is not just limited to the Docklands this weekend, though, with Feile na Greine, a festival celebrating emerging and experimental music, taking over bars across the city.

Trad music fans will enjoy Birdhill Tradfest, taking place this Friday, August 15 to Sunday, August 17. PJ Murrihy and Sean O Se are among those due to play.

Limerick City and County Council also have a range of music and culture events organised for this Saturday, August 16, with events such as busking and street performers at Harvey's Quay Bandstand and Tapas & Trad and a Summer Salsa Session in Honan's Quay

The council will also be continuing its Movies at the Milk Market series, with Toy Story playing this Wednesday, August 13, and Despicable Me 2 on Thursday, August 14. More information at Limerick.ie

In County Limerick, the Cappamore Show is bound to be a great day out on Saturday, with Knockaderry Fayre taking place on Sunday.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the recent deal to allow Nvidia Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. to resume lower-end AI chip sales to China, on the condition they give the US government a 15% cut of the related revenue, could serve as a model for others.

I think we could see it in other industries over time, Bessent said Wednesday in a television interview on Bloomberg Surveillance. Right now, this is unique, but now that we have the model and the beta test, why not expand it?

Bessent credited President Donald Trump with the very unique solution of allowing Nvidia to expand in China and become a bellwether for Chinese technology, with the US taxpayer getting a share of the reward. The revenue the Treasury receives from the arrangement will go to pay down debt, he said.

If we could make a substantial debt repayment, that would then allow for discussions about a program of sending money to taxpayers, he also said.

Asked about reporting that China is urging its companies to avoid the Nvidia H20 processors now allowed for its market, Bessent said sure, we can discuss that with the Chinese. But it also tells me that they are worried about the Nvidia chips becoming the standard in China.

China Talks

On Tuesday, Bessent said that hed be meeting again with his Chinese counterparts within the next two or three months, speaking on Fox Business. He dismissed the possibility of China emulating other US trading partners in winning tariff relief in return for boosting investments in the US.

When asked if China could make pledges worth billions of dollars like Japan, South Korea and the EU have as part of their trade agreements, Bessent said my sense is no because a lot of the buyout or the funds from the buyout are going to go to critical industries that we need to reshore and a lot of those need to be reshored away from China.

Whether the industry was semiconductors, rare-earth magnets, pharmaceuticals or steel, my sense is that isnt what will happen, Bessent said in an interview with Fox Business on Tuesday.

Tech and AI have been among the most high profile of areas of competition between the worlds two biggest economies. President Donald Trump has extended a pause of higher tariffs on Chinese goods for another 90 days into early November, a move that stabilized trade ties between the worlds two largest economies while they try to forge an agreement.

Chinese companies in sectors such as electric vehicles have opened factories abroad to access new markets, a move that could also help them skirt US tariffs.

He also indicated that Washington wanted to see measures from China over an extended period to stem the flow of chemicals used to make fentanyl before lowering duties Trump put in place over the issue.

We will need to see months, if not quarters, if not a year, of progress on that before I could imagine those tariffs coming down, he said.

With assistance from Philip Glamann.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Garvita Khybri, Director of Impact Partnerships at The Better India has in a post shared an incident about the alleged unfortunate firing of a Blinkit delivery partner on professional social media platform LinkedIn.

In the post, Khybri also tagged Zomato CEO Albinder Dhindsa to make right the alleged unfair action against the delivery partner.

However, in an emailed response, a Blinkit spokesperson said that the company did not take punitive action because of a single incident, adding that it was behavioural concerns and identified patterns behind the decision.

What happened according to the post? Khybri shared, Yesterday I made an order via Blinkit and I got the wrong order. After speaking with the customer care for 15 mins, they resolved and gave me my money back and took the wrong order away.

Today morning the same delivery partner, who delivered yesterday, knocked on my door again and said that Blinkit has fired him from the platform for wrong delivery. The delivery partner said that it wasnt his fault and now he is being made the scapegoat, she added.

She tagged Albinder Dhindsa, adding, this is quite unfair, right. Attached is the name and ID of the partner. Hes been asking me to call customer care and get him back on the app. What can be done to bring him back on the platform?

What has Blinkit said? When contacted via email, a spokesperson for Blinkit denied taking punitive active against a delivery partner for one incident.

We do not take punitive action against a delivery partner for a single incident of an incorrect order. The behavioural concerns of the said delivery partner were thoroughly reviewed, and action was taken based on identified patterns and gaps in standard protocols, the spokesperson said.
China sanctioned a pair of banks in the EU, fulfilling a promise to retaliate after the bloc targeted some Chinese lenders over Russias invasion of Ukraine.

China included UAB Urbo Bankas and AB Mano Bankas in its countermeasure list, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement on Wednesday. The move bans organizations and individuals in China from transactions, cooperation and other activities with the institutions.

In a separate statement, the ministry said it hoped the EU would cherish its relationship with China, correct its wrongdoing and stop harming the nations interests.

Last month, the European Union sanctioned two Chinese banks and five companies based in the Asian nation as part of the latest round of measures against Moscow. The EU said the banks were listed for providing cryptocurrency services that were frustrating the purpose of the sanctions.

Chinas close ties with Russia had subjected its banks to similar sanctions from the US before, prompting them to re-evaluate businesses and clients. Some of its state-owned banks tightened curbs on funding to Russian clients early last year, after the US authorized secondary sanctions on overseas financial firms that aid Moscows war effort.

China and Lithuania have been at odds in the past. Last year, Lithuania expelled three Chinese embassy employees, saying they werent accredited.

Beijing had earlier downgraded its diplomatic ties with the Baltic nation in response to Lithuanias decision to allow the opening of a Taiwan representative office in Vilnius.

Ties between Beijing and Brussels have been strained in recent years, largely due to Chinas support for Russias war in Ukraine.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
A little-known chapter of U.S. history is coming to the Broadway stage next month. The musical Mexodus brings to life the odyssey of African Americans who fled slavery in the United States by crossing the Rio Grande into Mexico through a network of secret routes known as the Underground Railroad. While the journey enslaved people undertook northward in search of freedom is better known, this innovative theatrical experience focuses on the southbound crossing and premieres in the cultural capital of the world at a sensitive moment for the bilateral relationship between the two neighboring countries.

Written and performed by Brian Quijada and Nygel D. Robinson, under the direction of David Mendizabal, the two-person play is an exciting multicultural history lesson about Black and Latino communities, weaving together various musical influences into a captivating sonic universe. The musical follows a person in search of freedom and an unexpected ally as they forge an extraordinary bond that transcends borders.

Amid President Donald Trumps migration crackdown, Salvadoran-American actor Quijada and Ecuadorian director Mendizabal emphasize the importance of telling the story of thousands of Americans who migrated south in search of a better life. At a time when immigration is under attack and Mexico is often portrayed negatively, I find it profoundly important to offer a story that celebrates solidarity, Mendizabal tells EL PAIS.

Mexodus will begin performances on September 9, ahead of its official opening on Thursday, September 18, at Audibles Minetta Lane Theatre in New York City.

Question: How did the idea to create this musical come about?

Brian Quijada. In 2017, I came across an article about the Underground Railroad that mentioned it went south into Mexico. I was fascinated. What drew me to the idea was that it was a different take on the same U.S.-Mexico border today, this time with an American immigrant crossing into Mexico in search of safety and a better life. But I didnt pursue the idea until I met my colleague Nygel D. Robinson in 2020.

Brian Quijada and Nygel D. Robinson, performing in the musical. Ben Krantz Studio

David Mendizabal. None of us on the creative team had heard of the Underground Railroad that ran to the south, where enslaved people sought refuge decades before the United States abolished slavery. Its a powerful narrative that challenges dominant representations of the U.S.-Mexico relationship, as well as the erasure of our history.

Q. The United States is witnessing a fierce anti-immigrant drive under President Trump. Why is the story of Mexodus so relevant today?

B. Q. Often, when people dont know their history, they tend to repeat themselves. But if we step back and examine politics and try to view migration patterns with a more empathetic lens, we can be a more understanding society.

D. M. The moment were living in this country is especially dangerous. There are active efforts to erase the historical contributions of Black and Latinx communities, and to use the immigration narrative as a political weapon. Mexodus responds to that.

Q. As children of immigrants, what captivated you most about the story of thousands of slaves who fought for their freedom?

B. Q. In the 1970s, my parents crossed the border into the United States in search of a better life. In this country, immigrants are so demonized that I wanted to paint that journey in a different light, while highlighting a piece of forgotten history.

D. M. My father is from Ecuador. He came to this country at 15, learned English, studied law, and founded his own immigration law firm. I grew up learning the power of storytelling through him, listening to his clients stories, and seeing how sharing a truth could be transformative. At a time when immigration is under attack and Mexico is often portrayed negatively, I find it profoundly important to offer a story that celebrates solidarity.

Q. What has been the biggest challenge in directing this work?

D. M. One of the most exciting challenges has been balancing the historical dramaturgy of 1851 with the contemporary parallels of 2025. In the play, Brian and Nygel play themselves as well as the fictional characters Carlos and Henry. Weaving their personal stories together with those of Carlos and Henry, to connect the past with the present, requires a very clear vision and aesthetic. The goal is to reflect the current struggles that still separate Black and Latinx communities, while also acknowledging the historical cycles in which we remain trapped as a country.

David Mendizabal, director de 'Mexodus.' Ben Krantz Studio

Q. What message do you want the audience to take away after seeing the musical?

B. Q. There are many moments in history when people of different races have united against oppression. Cesar Chavez fought for civil rights. An African American woman climbed the Statue of Liberty to protest the fact that migrant children were being held in cages. Young African American and Latinx artists created hip hop in the Bronx out of a need to celebrate life in marginalized communities. We want people to leave the theater dancing, singing, and remembering that we are stronger when we come together instead of apart.

D. M. We want to tell a hopeful story without ignoring the very real challenges of building solidarity within systems that continue to divide us. As the United States continues down troubling paths that erase the history and contributions of Black and Brown people, it becomes more urgent to tell an honest story, one that showcases both the struggle and the possibility of rising up together.

Q. The musical fuses reggaeton, hip hop, gospel, and live looping. Why was it important for the show to feature these musical genres?

B. Q. Hip hop, boleros, gospel, and reggaeton are the music of our people. Thats why we felt the need to integrate them into our musical. We pay homage to those who came before us and influenced us. We wanted to create something for our community.

Q. Do you think Broadway is offering more opportunities for Latinos to tell their stories and be part of them?

B. Q. Its undeniable that Latinos are having a moment on Broadway. This year, history was made when two Latino-led shows premiered on Broadway: Real Women Have Curves and Buena Vista Social Club. Progress is slow, but when you witness history, its hard not to feel inspired and hopeful that our stories will be heard.

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(Bloomberg) -- China Evergrande Groups debt load is far bigger than earlier estimated, amounting to HK$350 billion ($45 billion) as any holistic restructuring of the Chinese real estate firm is deemed out of reach, according to the developers court-appointed liquidators.

The company is facing 187 debt claims, with the total amount far exceeding the $27.5 billion of liabilities disclosed in its financial statement in December 2022, the liquidators said in a progress report issued on Tuesday. The new figure isnt to be taken as final since additional claims could emerge and all are subject to formal review.

Since liquidators Edward Middleton and Tiffany Wong, both of Alvarez & Marsal Inc., were appointed in January 2024, the duo have been sifting through files and unearthing arcane corporate structures to help creditors recoup money. That has included assuming control of more than 100 companies related to Evergrande that collectively hold a value of HK$27 billion, they said.

The Liquidators are not at this time able to estimate the amounts that may ultimately be realised from these entities, they said.

It has been a monumental task as Evergrande comprises 3,000 legal entities in multiple jurisdictions, as well as about 1,300 projects under development in more than 280 cities, according to the liquidators. China Evergrande first defaulted in 2021, sending shock-waves through the nations real estate market that is still seeking to recover.

There were also 3,000 projects under the Hong Kong-listed property management operation Evergrande Property Services Group Ltd. Creditors are especially paying close attention to the handling of this arm, since it represents a very substantial potential source of value and are being given the highest priority in terms of attention, the liquidators said.

Even though its not statutory required, the liquidators decided to issue a progress report on Tuesday due to wide interest of the liquidation process, they said.

The liquidators said the realization of assets has so far been modest at $255 million. Some $167 million has been upstreamed and linked to Evergrande, however, stakeholders shouldnt assume that all of the money will be available to the company due to complex ownership structures, they said.

Evergrande Vehicle

Separately, China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group Ltd., whose unit is also facing a liquidation petition from a creditor, has been looking for strategic investors. The EV maker had goals to take on Tesla Inc. and once had a market value that topped Ford Motor Co. before being swept up in the developers debt crisis. To date, liquidators have received no expressions of interest, after one previous proposal fell through.

The liquidators also have to contend with complexities onshore. It has been challenging for offshore investors to get their hands on assets that sit in the mainland, which has a separate jurisdiction from Hong Kong.

Last year, a mainland court accepted a liquidation application filed against one of Evergrandes major units onshore Guangzhou Kailong Real Estate Co.

Kailong is fully owned by Evergrande and has a stake of around 60% in Hengda Real Estate, the developers main property operation onshore.

Last March, Chinese regulators accused Hengda Real Estate of inflating more than 560 billion yuan ($78 billion) of revenue by recognizing sales in advance, an alleged fraud that dwarfs that of Luckin Coffee Inc. and Enron Corp. Evergrande was fined 4.18 billion yuan, leaving even less money for offshore creditors.

The liquidators said they have been made aware of hundreds of credit actions including the onshore bankruptcy proceedings of Guangzhou Kailong.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Auto major Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) plans to export electric vehicles to the United Kingdom, leveraging the UK-India free-trade agreement (FTA), CEO and MD Anish Shah told PTI on August 13.

For this, the company's plans to mobilise its Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (M.A.D.E) facility at Banbury, Oxfordshire (UK). The goal is to have EVs comprise 30 per cent of M&M total sales by 2030, as per the report.

UK-India FTA opens up our market We are looking forward to exporting our EVs to the UK and to take a bigger share of the UK market and competing in the UK on the back of this FTA, Shah said. He added that the Indian government has done a fine job when it comes to the trade agreement with the UK.

It balances a large number of things. First, it helps open up our market in a way to goods coming in from the UK. Second, it helps us export a lot more across multiple industries, he stated.

India can emerge as auto manufacturing hub of world CEO Shah told PTI that India has the potential to emerge as the automobile manufacturing hub of the world, and the company's Oxfordshire facility serves as the conceptual hotbed for the companys portfolio of electric products.

If you take the automobile sector as a specific example, India has tremendous potential to be the auto manufacturing hub of the world...today, we are much smaller, but with what we are doing now, and also the focus on ease of business, on production of logistics costs, on production of import duties in some areas, we have started to see much greater ability for us to produce very high quality cars in India, Shah said.

Also Read | India-UK FTA uncorks new promise for imported scotch and gin

FTA should encourage innovation, manufacturing According to Shah, the FTA should be able to encourage innovation and manufacturing in the country.

He noted that when he says India can be a production hub, it is not only for the domestic firms but global automakers. We want the best global automakers to be in India and produce in India. It will spur businesses. It will be better more competition makes us better over time. So it's very important for us to be able to have a very thriving auto industry in India, consumers having the choice of the best cars in the world, Shah said.

On global competition, Shah noted, We've not just survived. We've gotten better as we've had competition that came in, and today we are actually standing at a much stronger position. The company has very strong R&D capabilities in India. It can manufacture higher-quality vehicles at a lower cost than many of the global competitors. We think it's good for India to have a thriving auto ecosystem, and that's something that we feel is better for consumers and good for us.
MUMBAI: Eli Lilly has stepped up its fight with Novo Nordisk in Indias fast-growing anti-obesity market, launching a prefilled pen version of its blockbuster weight-loss drug Mounjaro at the same price as its injectable vials. The KwikPen, available in six dosage strengths, follows the March launch of Mounjaro in injectable vials, giving Lilly an early-mover advantage in India.

Mounjaro KwikPen is a multi-dose, single-patient-use device, with each pen containing four fixed doses administered once a week. Dosage strengths range from 2.5 mg to 15 mg, with monthly pricing starting at 14,000 for the 2.5 mg dose and going up to 27,500 for the 15 mg dose, Lilly said in a release on Wednesday.

Also Read | Centre asks states to reduce sugar, salt in school meals to counter obesity

The launch of Mounjaro KwikPen marks a step forward in the care of type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering a more convenient approach to medication administration." Winselow Tucker, president and general manager, Lilly India, said in a release. We believe this innovation will support healthcare professionals in delivering more personalized and effective treatment plans, helping to improve outcomes and advance the quality of care for people living with these serious diseases.

The drugmakers move comes as competitor Novo Nordisk, which launched its weight-loss drug Wegovy as an injectable pen in June 2025, is close on its heels.

Lilly vs Novo: A battle for market share India has become a key battleground for Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, mirroring their global competition in anti-obesity drugs. Both companies are racing to capture a lucrative market before generics enter.

Globally, Novo Nordisks obesity-focused sales grew from under $2-3 billion in 2020 to about $10 billion in 2024. In 2024, Wegovy sales reached $8 billion, while Ozempic, its other Semaglutide product, brought in $17 billion. Lillys Mounjaro recorded $11.5 billion in global sales in 2024, an increase of 124% from the previous year.

In India, Mounjaro has generated close to 100 crore in sales until July 2025, according to pharma intelligence platform Pharmarack.

Novo Nordisk, which launched the oral Semaglutide brand Rybelsus in 2022, has reported overall Semaglutide sales of over 421 crore as of July 2025. After Mounjaros March launch, sales of Rybelsus were hit, but Novo Nordisk in on a recovery path with its injectable. Since its launch in June, Wegovy has recorded sales 10 crore until the end of July.

Both Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and Wegovy (Semaglutide) are GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, which mimic the hormone regulating blood sugar and appetite and are indicated for type-2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Tirzepatide is also a GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) agonist, making it the first and only dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist.

Also Read | Wellness startups board the weight loss bandwagon

Indias weight-loss market is projected to grow rapidly, with over 254 million people living with obesity and more than 100 million adults with diabetes. The market was estimated at $25 billion in 2024 and could double by 2033, according to Nuvama research.

Also Read | Torrent aims to be among first cos to launch Wegovy, Ozempic generics in Brazil

The two companies face a narrow window to secure market share before generic competitors enter.

Semaglutides patent protection is expected to expire in March 2026, and leading Indian pharmaceutical companies including Dr Reddys, Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, and Cipla are reportedly preparing lower-cost versions.
NEW DELHI: A customs tax tribunal has delivered a win to One97 Communications Ltd, the parent of Paytm, quashing a customs demand totalling 21 crore, after finding authorities had relied on Wikipedia to classify one of the companys flagship devices.

A bench of the Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) on 5 August overturned two penalty orders against Paytm over its Soundbox payment device, calling the classification based merely on presumption and assumption" and not on any authentic technical literature or any expert opinion, evidence, statement, or report."

The dispute arose when Customs alleged that the Soundbox was a 4G LTE/MIMO device, which would attract the standard 20% duty, rather than a 2G product eligible for a concessional 10% rate under the Customs Act, 1962.

That reclassification would have raised costs for Paytms network of more than 11.7 million merchant subscribers as of December 2024street vendors, small shops, and kirana storeswho use the device for instant payment confirmations.

Emailed queries to One97 Communications earlier today went unanswered till press time.

A cost for millions of merchants avoided

The ruling preserves Paytms concessional duty benefit, preventing the higher import cost from being passed on to merchants.

The penalties 3.29 crore for one period and 17.98 crore for anotherwere cancelled along with confiscation orders.

In the tribunals view, Customs officials misread both the evidence and expert testimony.

Wikipedia cannot be considered a reliable source of information since anyone can add content," the bench wrote. It faulted the principal commissioner for assuming that a device with overlapping GSM and LTE frequencies was compatible with both network standards.

Paytm Soundbox is a compact unit that provides merchants with instant audio and visual alerts for transactions via UPI, Paytm Wallet, or cards, removing the need to check a phone screen.

Paytm, which had a 6.78-6.9% share of the UPI market as of the ruling, behind PhonePe (47.67%) and Google Pay (36.38%), processed 1.27 billion transactions worth 1.34 trillion in June this year.

A reliance on Wikipedia and a train analogy

Between August 2019 and August 2022, Paytm imported Soundboxes claiming the 10% concessional duty. Customs issued two show-cause notices between 2022 and 2023, citing a Paytm blog, Wikipedia articles, and the devices chipset frequency overlap with LTE as evidence that it was a 4G device.

Paytm countered with lab reports from Alpha Test House and Shenzhen STS Test Services showing the Soundbox connects only to 2G GSM networks. The company also sought an expert opinion from Saif Khan Mohammed, a professor at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, who confirmed that the MediaTek MT6261A chipset supports only 2G GSM/GPRS.

Frequency overlap, he explained, does not enable faster networks  just as a local train (2G) can run on tracks that also carry express trains (4G), the Soundbox remains a 2G device.

Customs dismissed the reports, and in July 2023 misinterpreted Mohammeds analogy to claim the device could operate as 4G. The tribunal bench sided with the expert, calling his analysis technically sound.

A systemic problem

Courts have previously flagged Customs reliance on Wikipedia in product classification disputes.

In 2023, the Supreme Court overturned Customs reclassification of Hewlett Packard India Sales All-in-One desktops, which partly relied on Wikipedia to argue the devices were portable. The court said portability could not be judged by weight alone and cautioned authorities against using the site to resolve legal disputes.

In 2007, the top court sided with Acer India after the Department cited Wikipedia to claim micro-computers and laptops were identical for classification.

Taxation experts say the Paytm case highlights persistent gaps in Customs technical assessments that can lead to costly misclassifications.

This points to a failure to consult primary technical documents such as manufacturer specifications or expert analysis. The 21 crore demand was based on a fundamentally incorrect premise," said Rohit Jain, managing partner at Singhania & Co.

Classification errors are a frequent source of disputes between importers and Customs authorities. They often arise from ambiguities in the tariff schedule, incomplete product descriptions, and gaps in technical understanding. Such decisions directly impact trade compliance and revenue," said Pankaj Goel, partner at chartered accountancy firm CNK.

Customs must verify facts with qualified experts rather than rely on generic online sources, said Gopal Mundhra, a partner at Economic Laws Practice. Often, assessments seem aimed at denying benefits rather than being based on careful analysis, he added.

For Paytm, the verdict not only wipes out a 21 crore liability but also reinforces judicial pushback against loose, assumption-driven classifications that can ripple through Indias import ecosystem.
Perplexity, an AI company headed by Indian-origin CEO Aravind Srinivas, made headlines on August 12 as it made a bold move to acquire Google Chrome for as much as $34.5 billion.

Perplexity is no stranger to making such bold offers. In January, it made a similar one for TikTok US and had offered to merge with the video-making platform, amid concerns in America about TikTok's Chinese ownership.

But does Perplexity have the kind of money to acquire Google Chrome for $34.5 billion?

Perplexity's net worth The all-cash offer made by Aravind Srinivas to acquire Chrome from Sundar Pichai's Alphabet was far beyond Perplexity's own valuation.

Perplexity AI Inc, whose artificial intelligence-powered search engine competes with Google, was valued at $18 billion in July after raising fresh capital, Bloomberg reported last month.

Also Read | Perplexity AI proposes takeover of Chrome in $34.5 billion challenge to Google

The company brought in $100 million with the financing, the agency reported, quoting a person familiar with the matter.

This deal was an extension of a previous round a few months ago that valued the company at $14 billion, according to the report.

Perplexity, founded by Srinivas in 2022, has raised around $1 billion in funding so far from investors including Nvidia and Japan's SoftBank.

How does Perplexity plan to acquire Google Chrome? Perplexity on Tuesday did not comment on how exactly it plans to buy Google Chrome.

Multiple funds have offered to finance the deal in full, Perplexity said, without naming the funds.

Perplexity already has an AI browser, Comet, that can perform certain tasks on a user's behalf and buying Chrome would allow it to tap the browser's more than three billion users.

Google has, however, not offered Chrome up for sale as it plans to challenge a US court ruling last year that found it held an unlawful monopoly in online search.

Chrome has been facing regulatory pressure amid findings of its monopoly in the industry, and companies like OpenAI, Yahoo and private-equity firm Apollo Global Management have also expressed interest to buy the browser.
When a group of private equity investors and Chinese technology companies were asked for ideas on how they would revive Starbucks Corp.s fortunes in the worlds second-largest economy, the most common advice was: Be a lot more like the local competition that beat you.

Starbucks, they argued, should have smaller stores, employ fewer people and cut prices, according to people familiar with the sale process that kicked off in May who asked not to be identified for discussing private matters. These proposals resemble the very model that enabled Luckin Coffee Inc. to overtake Starbucks as Chinas biggest coffee chain two years ago by selling coffee at one third of its price.

Most of the prospective investors want a controlling stake of the Seattle-based companys Chinese business. And while Starbucks has said itll only partner with an investor aligned with its vision, the process has put its local Chinese management team on tenterhooks, worried that a brand theyve spent decades building will become just another low-price, trend-following chain, said people familiar with the matter.

The stake sale exercise is underscoring Starbucks identity crisis in China as it tries to salvage a flagging legacy business amid fierce domestic competition  a problem that has afflicted other foreign brands as Chinas economy undergoes major shifts. What Starbucks chooses to do in China will decide whether it ends up successful like McDonalds Corp., or faltering like Apple Inc.

Starbucks is in a tough position, said Mark Tanner, managing director of consultancy China Skinny in Shanghai. Many cost-conscious consumers are opting for cheaper alternatives, but trying to compete on price will be a race to the bottom, destroying any margins they currently hold.

A spokeswoman for Starbucks declined to comment but referred to comments regarding its China business recovery and stake sale process in its most recent earnings.

Starbucks brought the cafe experience to China in the 1990s, and as Chinas economic growth soared, its footprint expanded in tandem to bring its total number of stores there to over 7,800. In recent years, however, Western brands have been losing ground to local names amid rising nationalism and reluctance to pay premiums for brands.

The very few American brands that still thrive in Chinas great consumer pullback made successful adaptations to their business. Yum China Holdings Inc.s KFC incorporated street food and local delicacies to its menu and offers cost-conscious consumers meal deals all year long. Walmart Inc.s Sams Club taps into the middle classs craving for exclusivity and growing health consciousness with high-quality private label snacks and premium meat cuts.

Starbucks seems stuck in between those models. While its third place store format is expensive to upkeep, customers have become less willing to pay higher prices for its drinks since the Covid pandemic and ongoing economic downturn. Compounding the problem was previous China Chief Executive Officer Belinda Wongs tendency to hew more closely to the companys strategy in developed Western markets, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Wong rejected ideas like a lower-price spinoff chain before Covid, as well as more localized campaigns during the pandemic, the people said, citing a belief that they conflicted with Starbucks brand.

New initiatives have been launched rapidly since new CEO Molly Liu took over in late 2024. These included a cheaper line of tea-based drinks and sugar-free options, and tie-ups with the move Zootopia and Taiwanese rock band Mayday, all under the aegis of a new chief growth officer. Lius understanding of the Chinese market enables different ideas to be discussed and approved more easily, the people said.

Starbucks new product innovation and marketing campaigns this year show its digging deeper to explore the demand of Chinese consumers, said Roolee Lu, Shanghai-based director of consultancy Mintel Group Ltd. They want new products, they want emotional connection with brands, they need some comprehensive, immersive experiences.

There are signs of a turnaround. Based on conversations with three store managers in Shanghai, drinks cobranded with Mayday drove their May sales by as much as 20% in their stores. Overall, the most recent quarter showed sales returning to growth since late 2023 in China, with Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol attributing the success in an earnings call last month to beverage innovation and changes to non-coffee pricing.

Yet the lack of a clear strategy endures, especially around its stores which, depending on who you ask, are either a vaunted part of brand identity or an expensive cost overhang. The Chinese management team is now experimenting with different ways to bring people in. These include making more stores pet-friendly, providing free-to-use study rooms and targeting store openings in heritage or scenic sites, such as a recent one in Yunnans Yulong Snow Mountain.

From the potential investors perspective, it isnt necessary to have large stores if Starbucks aims to capture the needs of busy professionals who are unlikely to linger, though some shops should maintain in-store experiences, said people familiar with the proposals. Cutting the number of staff in stores is also an option, the people said, as many local chains only have one employee as orders are mostly taken online.

Jessica Gleeson, a former Starbucks China executive who now runs her own retail consultancy in Shanghai, said the risk is that the new investor doesnt understand Starbucks positioning in China and turns it into just another transactional coffee chain.

The low-end of the market is already crowded, she said.

Whichever direction Starbucks China takes, one thing is clear: Itll regain past glory only if consumers like Jelly Li can be persuaded to become regular customers again.

The 32-year-old musician from Guangzhou was recently at a Starbucks in Shanghai with a view of the Oriental Pearl Tower. She was unimpressed by the orange-flavored ice-shaken espresso she ordered, noting: Starbucks taught me how to enjoy coffee when I was in college. Now I need coffee everyday but no longer pay for Starbucks.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Switzerland faces additional costs of as much as 1.3 billion Swiss francs to buy Lockheed Martin Corp. F-35A fighter jets after failing to push through a fixed-price deal, in another setback for the government after the US slapped surprisingly high tariffs on the country.

Negotiations between Swiss and US officials, including Defense Minister Martin Pfister and his US counterpart Pete Hegseth, failed to sway the US to consider a fixed price, according to the government. Cost overruns will be somewhere between 650 million and 1.3 billion Swiss francs, the government said.

The discussions clearly showed that the USA is not prepared to deviate from its position, the government said in a statement on Wednesday. As a result, the government must now accept a price per production batch that corresponds to the value negotiated between the US government and the manufacturer, the release said.

At the same time, the unfavorable outcome wont prompt the government to immediately cancel the order, it said. Instead, the Federal Department of Defence will examine various options in depth by the end of November, including whether current air defence requirements still correspond to the principles on which the evaluation of the F-35A was based, according to the release.

The latest tussle between the Swiss and the US government comes after US President Donald Trump slapped the highest tariff in the developed world on Switzerland, a surprise move that only heightened public criticism of the already controversial F-35 purchase. Lawmakers across parties have pushed for canceling the contract outright after the tariff decision.

Switzerland had for years taken the stance that the 36 F-35As it ordered would be delivered at a fixed price of 6 billion francs. In June, it acknowledged a disagreement with the US over the price and said it would seek a diplomatic solution.

The Swiss Air Force now flies older F-5 and F/A-18 jets that date to the 1970s and 1980s, and is looking to replace all of its combat fleet with advanced aircraft. The F-35A stealth fighters it has ordered, at a cost now set to reach as high as 7.3 billion Swiss francs, would be a major step up in capability, and a dozen friendly European countries also operate them.

The jet has been a mainstay of Lockheed Martins bottom line for years. But criticism over cost overruns has flared this year, and the Pentagon sharply cut its proposed purchase of F-35s for fiscal 2026, while pouring more money into rival companies programs. The Swiss jets on order represents about a third of the number the company delivered in 2024.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
The partial collapse of a waste dam at a Chinese state-owned copper mine in Zambia may have released 30 times more toxic sludge into the environment than previously reported, according to an independent evaluation of the disaster.

At least 1.5 million tons of the poisonous substance escaped when a reservoir failed at the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia Ltd. mine near the northern city of Kitwe, findings from the company hired to assess the environmental damage showed. That would fill more than 400 Olympic-sized pools and rank the incident among the mining industrys worst catastrophes globally.

The government and the company have previously said 50,000 tons spilled in the February disaster. Video evidence from social media and field data show this to be grossly inaccurate, Drizit Zambia Ltd.  hired by Sino-Metals to conduct an environmental audit of the accident  said in a June 3 letter seen by Bloomberg and verified by the company.

Drizit described the event as a large-scale environmental catastrophe that threatened drinking water, fishing stocks and farmland in the area. Sino-Metals, which has terminated its contract with Drizit, questioned the methodology used by the company to assess the magnitude of the spill.

The disaster risks undermining Zambian President Hakainde Hichilemas plan to more than triple copper output to 3 million tons in the coming years. China Nonferrous Mining Corp., SMLs parent, in 2023 pledged to invest $1.3 billion to expand output in the southern African nation, the continents second-biggest producer of the metal.

The incident also complicates Lusakas ties with Beijing, at a time when Hichilemas administration is working to conclude restructuring deals with Chinese lenders for about $5.6 billion of debt.

US Concern

The US Embassy flagged concern about the scale of the disaster last week, when it ordered the immediate withdrawal of its officials from Kitwe and some surrounding areas, citing newly available information that revealed the extent of the contamination.

In an Aug. 6 email to staff seen by Bloomberg and verified by the US government, US Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales said the disaster appeared to be the sixth-worst in history, and that toxic substances including arsenic, cyanide, uranium will continue to pose threats to humans and animals until removed.

The US Embassy declined to comment.

Without immediate intervention, the consequences for future generations of Zambians will be severe and long-lasting, Drizit said in the letter.

The company declined to comment beyond verifying the letter, citing legal reasons. Drizits parent company in South Africa has been in the environmental risk-mitigation industry since 1975.

Sino-Metals said it terminated its contract with Drizit because of unspecified contractual breaches, and that Drizit had time to remedy these but failed.

The dam where the tailings escaped from is still there and the amount of tailings that escaped can be ascertained by the volume of the dam, a spokesman for the company said. However, if Drizit were able to calculate the amount of spillage by using social media footage, that is quite interesting methodology.

Mike Mposha, Zambias green economy and environment minister, declined to immediately comment.

Drinking Water

Zambias government last week played down concerns about the incident, saying there was no cause for panic and that water quality in the affected areas has been restored. Senior officials appeared on state media at the weekend drinking tap water from Kitwe to prove it was safe.

No deaths or confirmed cases of heavy metal poisoning have been reported, the government said.

The disaster unfolded when a dam wall breached after heavy rains on Feb. 18, releasing a torrent of sulphuric acid-bearing material used to extract copper into the nearby Mwambashi River.

Preliminary assessments showed the river measured a pH as low as 1, Collins Nzovu, Zambias water and sanitation minister, told lawmakers Feb. 21. Fluid with that level of acidity is strong enough to dissolve human bones.

Water from the Mwambashi flows into the Kafue River, which passes through one of Africas biggest national parks. Zambias capital, Lusaka, relies on the river for much of its water supply.

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, the government began dumping hundreds of tons of lime into the rivers to neutralize the acid, which had wiped out aquatic life for miles, along with crops growing alongside them.

While the acidity may have returned to normal, heavy metals pose a persistent threat, especially to the 800 individuals still living near the fallout zone, Drizits letter said.

The South Africa-based company said its engagements with SML had been difficult.

From the outset, they have actively sought to disrupt the assessment process and have made attempts to influence the outcomes of our findings, it said. SML has accused us of breaching the contract and has since terminated the agreement just days before its conclusion, seemingly with the intention of preventing our report from reaching the proper authorities.

With assistance from Taonga Mitimingi.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Treasury Wine Estates Ltd. is confident the Australian brand will keep growing in its key Chinese market, despite a shift in drinking habits sparked by a government directive banning alcohol from official banquets.

Treasury, the vintner behind iconic label Penfolds, posted a 17% gain in full-year profits on Wednesday. While its seen demand from China rebound following the removal of tariffs on Australian wine last year, it warned a directive from Beijing officials in May was already having an impact.

China issued new guidance to officials to ban alcohol and tobacco from government banquets, as part of a broad crackdown on signs of extravagance in public life. Thats expected to see some customers move away from large banquets toward smaller gatherings  a change which could weigh on sales in one of Treasurys biggest markets.

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The decision had impacted everyone in the market, Penfolds Managing Director Tom King said on an investor call, adding that the brand was closely monitoring the depletion rate for July and August.

A report in late July from industry group Wine Australia found that exports to China fell in the June quarter compared with a year earlier. Thats after an initial surge sparked by the removal of heavy tariffs in May 2024 following a three-year spat with Canberra on trade policies.

Treasury had only been back in the nation for about 12 months in a meaningful way, the companys outgoing Chief Executive Officer Tim Ford said on the call. The companys rebuild in the important consumer market was still underway and theres still a lot of runway to bolster sales, he added.

Treasurys earnings rose to A$770 million in the year through June, broadly in line with market expectations. Shares gained as much as 5.6% in Sydney on Wednesday after the company also announced a A$200 million share buyback.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Google hasnt put Chrome up for sale, but antitrust proceedings could force its parent, Alphabet, to look for buyers. While Perplexity wants Chrome for its access to over 3 billion users and dominance in the artificial intelligence (AI) search race, OpenAI is also interested.

Mint decodes the bids for the worlds most popular browser.

1) Why is Perplexity interested in acquiring Chrome?

AI-powered web search engine Perplexity wants Chrome because its the gateway to over 3 billion users and the dominant player in the AI search race. Chrome underpins Googles search empire, and owning it would give Perplexity, co-founded by Indian-origin computer scientist Aravind Srinivas, direct access to user behaviour, search traffic, and advertising data.

Perplexitys own AI browser, Comet, has only about 15 million monthly active users. Acquiring Chrome would catapult it into a leadership position. According to media reports, Perplexity is also in talks with smartphone makers to pre-install Comet on their devices. But buying Chrome would instantly hand it the worlds largest browser, controlling the interface where AI-powered search meets the user.

2) Does Alphabet want to sell Chrome browser?

Google hasnt announced any plans to sell Chrome. However, a US federal judge ruled in 2024 that the company illegally monopolized search, and the US Department of Justice (DoJ) is pushing for Chromes divestiture as a remedy. Another judge is expected to rule this month, potentially ordering Google to break up its search business.

Google has reportedly said it would appeal such an order, calling the idea of spinning off Chrome an unprecedented proposal" that would harm consumers and security.

Proponents of a split argue that Chromes integration with Google Search entrenches its dominance. If forced to sell, Google might comply to avoid harsher penalties or prolonged litigation. Interestingly, Perplexitys $34.5 billion bid is far below Chromes estimated $50 billion market value. Perplexity itself is valued at around $18 billion.

3) How will Perplexity benefit from owning Chrome?

Buying Chrome would give Perplexity a massive distribution channel for its AI-powered search engine. Instead of competing from the sidelines, it could embed its search engine directly into the browser experience.

Perplexity has pledged to keep Google as the default search engine, but the real value lies in the data: browsing patterns, search behaviour, and ad interactions. This data fuels AI training and personalization.

Additionally, Perplexity could monetize Chrome through advertising, partnerships, and premium AI features and get access to Chromes engineering talent.

4) Who else is interested in buying Chromeand why?

OpenAI, Yahoo, and New York-based private equity firm Apollo Global Management have all expressed interest in acquiring Chrome if Google is forced to divest.

OpenAI sees Chrome as a launchpad for an AI-first browsing experience, integrating ChatGPT into the browsers core. OpenAI is also working on its own AI browser, but Chrome purchase will cut its time to market and access a global leader in the browser space.

Yahoo wants to accelerate its search revival by skipping years of browser development. Apollo sees Chrome as a high-value asset with stable cash flows and strategic leverage.

All contenders see Chrome as more than a web browserits a distribution engine for AI, search, and advertising.

5) Perplexity earlier tried to buy TikTok? What happened?

In January, Perplexity offered to buy the US arm of TikTok. The short-video platform, owned by Chinas ByteDance, faces a September 2025 deadline to be sold or banned in the US.

Perplexity proposed rebuilding TikToks algorithm from scratch and integrating AI-powered fact-checking. It pledged to host infrastructure in the US data centres and ensure transparency.

However, TikTok is in no hurry to sell, and Perplexitys offer was overshadowed by larger bidders such as Oracle and Microsoft. The bid eventually fizzled out, with some Reddit users dismissing it as a publicity stunt by the San Francisco-based startup.

6) How is AI reshaping the browser business?

As a new generation of AI users turns to chatbots like ChatGPT and Perplexity for answers, browsers are becoming vital gateways to search traffic and user datacentral to Big Techs AI ambitions.

For example, Copilot integrated within the Microsoft Edge browser acts as an AI companion users can interact with directly within the browser.

AI is transforming browsers from passive tools into intelligent workspaces, summarizing articles, rewriting content, extracting data, and automating workflows. This shift improves productivity, speeds up research, and collaboration. Instead of juggling tabs and apps, users interact with a unified, intuitive interface that anticipates needs and improves focus.

The browser is no longer just a gateway to the web  its becoming an intelligent assistant for the users.

Also Read | Five artificial intelligence trends to track in 2025

Perplexitys Comet already offers AI features that perform tasks on behalf of the user. Acquiring Chrome would give it access to more than 3 billion users, boosting its ability to compete with giants like OpenAI.

7) What else could drive a potential sale of Chrome?

Today, Chrome is not just a browser; its a platform for AI integration, user data, and search monetization. Rivals like OpenAI and Perplexity are building AI-native browsers, while regulators see Chromes dominance as a barrier to innovation. They want to prevent Google from extending its monopoly into AI-powered search.

Selling Chrome could democratize access to browser-based AI, open up competition, and reshape how users interact with the web. Interestingly, Perplexity is also seen as an acquisition target with technology giants including Apple and Facebook-owner Meta, reportedly showing interest.

In the coming weeks and months, expect the AIbrowser convergence to grow beyond Perplexitys Chrome bidpotentially reshaping the internets next chapter.
Santa Rosa de Loreto woke up Monday to a Colombian tricolor flag flying from a bamboo pole on Chineria Island, on the northeastern tip of Peru. Locals reported that Colombian civilians had arrived in the area aboard speedboats and secretly placed it there, taking advantage of the first rays of the morning sun. This is the latest incident in a string of events that have heightened tensions between two countries that had gone decades without a conflict, but whose diplomatic relations have been reduced to charges daffaires since 2023.

As the hours passed, speculation swirled about who was responsible for an act that the political class has described as provocative. On Tuesday, the mystery was revealed through a post on the X social network. Daniel Quintero, former mayor of Medellin, who is close to Colombian President Gustavo Petro and a presidential aspirant, published a short video in which he is seen raising the tricolor flag. There is no way I will let the Amazon River be lost to Peru. Theyve already stolen enough from us with Panama and the San Andres Sea with Nicaragua, he says in the video.

We cannot mourn like children what we could not defend as men, Quintero adds, indicating that, if elected president, Colombia will defend itself with all its soul. As if that were not enough, he published a photo of himself with the flag in the middle of the island, with a message that added fuel to the fire: Homeland or death. Since the beginning of last week, Petro has denied Peruvian sovereignty over the Santa Rosa de Loreto district, located a few meters from the triple border between Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.

The Peruvian Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing that these types of acts do not contribute to the historic harmonious and peaceful coexistence between the two countries and, furthermore, distract cooperation efforts to address urgent challenges that negatively affect border populations. For his part, former mayor of Santa Rosa de Loreto, Ivan Noguera, told a local radio station that he has contacted Colombian legislators to declare Daniel Quintero persona non grata. They intend to start a war to stay in power. That way, they wont be able to call elections, Noguera said, referring to Petro.

Daniel Quintero with the Colombian flag in the territory of Santa Rosa, on August 12, 2025. @DQuinteroCalle

Last Thursday, while Petro was commemorating the Battle of Boyaca at the Leticia border crossing and a group of Peruvian government ministers were conducting civic activities in the Santa Rosa de Loreto district, a Colombian Armed Forces aircraft flew over Peruvian airspace without permission. Perus Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident, calling it a serious violation of territorial sovereignty and demanding the broadest guarantees to ensure a similar situation does not occur again.

On Saturday, just two days later, Colombian police officers attempted to enter the Santa Rosa district without authorization. A contingent of the Peruvian navy blocked their entry without any need for violence. After Petro addressed the issue in social media posts, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte has only spoken once, from Japan, where she is on a tour of Asia. She simply stated that there are no pending issues to address and that Santa Rosa belongs to Peru.

For international relations expert Oscar Vidarte, Petros irresponsibility is destroying a bilateral relationship that was already in bad shape. The planes overflight that violated our airspace and the raising of the Colombian flag in Peruvian territory are merely a reflection of a government that disrespects our sovereignty.

Meanwhile, the Peruvian Congress Foreign Relations Committee has summoned Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer to respond next Monday to the territorial conflict that has sparked controversy on the continent. In recent hours, a preventive and intense patrol has been ordered in Santa Rosa de Loreto by the Peruvian Armed Forces and the navy. The order is clear: they want no more surprises.

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Mumbai-based artificial intelligence and analytics firm Fractal Analytics on Wednesday filed its draft red herring prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for an initial public offering (IPO) targeted by the end of this financial year.

The company seeks to raise 1,279 crore in fresh capital, while existing investors will collectively sell shares worth 3,620 crore under the offer for sale (OFS) option, the filing showed. Selling shareholders include Quinag Bidco Ltd (an Apax Partners vehicle), TPG, GLM Family Trust, Satya Kumari Remala, and Rao Venkateswara Remala.

Last month, Mint was the first to report that the company is preparing to file draft papers for a listing after several delays in the process and has hired Kotak Mahindra Capital, Morgan Stanley India, Axis Capital, and Goldman Sachs (India) to help with the issue. The company is targeting a valuation of more than $3 billion.

The Apax Funds-backed firm had first planned to go public in 2021 but deferred its plans amid weak market conditions. Over the past year, several other companies have also delayed initial public offerings (IPOs), recalibrated their valuations, and downsized issue sizes in response to changing market sentiment.

IPO wave Fractal will now join a growing list of Indian startups, including Pine Labs, Curefoods, Capillary Technologies, Lenskart, Shiprocket, Groww, and Urban Company, that have filed draft IPO papers in recent months. Others such as PhysicsWallah and Bluestone are also expected to go public soon.

Also Read | Elevation Capital plans IPO push for 9 portfolio firms in 2 years

The company plans to use the net proceeds from the public issue to invest in its subsidiary, Fractal USA. This investment will cover costs incurred to purchase laptops, establish new office space in India, fund research and development, and support sales and marketing activities under Fractal Alpha. Additionally, the funds will be used to finance inorganic growth through potential acquisitions and other strategic initiatives, as well as general corporate expenses.

Investor backing and funding history Founded in 2000 by Srikanth Velamakanni, Pranay Agrawal, Nirmal Palaparthi, Pradeep Suryanarayan, and Ramkrishna Reddy, Fractal provides AI-driven data solutions to clients across consumer goods, retail, financial services, and insurance. Its customer base includes around 150 Fortune 500 companies such as Google and Wells Fargo.

Its target group includes companies with either $20 billion in market capitalisation or $10 billion in revenues, or those with at least 30 million customers. The company says it allocates about 1012% of revenues toward research and development.

Over the past few years, Fractal has raised over $600 million from investors including TA Associates, TPG, and Malaysias Khazanah Nasional Berhad through primary and secondary transactions, according to data from Tracxn. In 2016, Khazanah invested $100 million at a $300 million valuation. Fractal entered the unicorn club six years later after a $360 million investment from TPG.
BENGALURU , MUMBAI : Buoyed by higher starting salaries and more disposable income, Generation Zpeople born after 1996are leading the next transformation in financial services business.

Fintechs such as e-commerce platform Flipkart-backed super.money, Grip Broking Private Ltd, and Scapia Technology Pvt. Ltd, among others, are now tailoring features to win them early in their financial journey.

From product design shifting from long-term, rigid products to flexible, high-engagement tools matching younger users short attention spans and appetite for control, fintechs are rethinking their offerings.

Stride Ventures and Anicut Capital-backed retail investment platform Grip Invest introduced the sell anytime" feature in March, allowing investors to sell bonds at any time after holding them for two months.

Also Read | Gen Z likes to stay fit with friends and trends

Early results show improved retention, higher engagement, and lower customer acquisition costs. Grip's customer acquisition costs dropped by 25% as a result of higher conversion rates from new and existing users, according to Vaibhav Laddha, chief executive of the company.

Most bonds are considered illiquid due to longer maturity periods. We launched the feature to create instant liquidity as the new generation is averse to long-term investment commitments," Laddha told Mint.

In July 2025, the number of users under the age of 25 using Grips services grew nearly 5X year-on-year, underscoring the growing appetite among youngsters for alternative assets and fixed-income products.

Payments app super.money (Scapic Innovations Pvt. Ltd) has introduced a rewards system that ships cashback on UPI payments made through its platform directly to the users bank account. The feature has helped boost engagement rates by 2.5X over the last few months, with the number of transactions per user per month nearly doubling to 40. The platform had about 10 million monthly active userswith anaverage age of 26-27 yearsas of July 2025.

We stayed away from coins and other rewards because there is general mistrust among users about their utility on digital platforms. With young users at the core of our operations, we want to create a transparent platform that gives users the flexibility of using their money the way they desire," said Prakash Sikaria, the founder of super.money.

Peak XV-backed travel-focused fintech startup Scapia has also seen increasing interest from Gen Z for its travel now, pay later (TNPL|) offering. A standout behavioural shift is their use of EMIs. One-fifth of Gen Z travel bookings on Scapia are through EMIs. Products like TNPL empower them to manage their budgets while still pursuing these distinctive travel choices," said Anil Goteti, founder and CEO, Scapia. Comparatively, other age groups only use this feature 13-15% of the time.

Other financial services players, such as Slice Small Finance Bank Ltd, are also betting big on Indias 300 million underserved but credit-worthy users.

Slice recently introduced a UPI-linked credit card that allows users to make QR code-based UPI payments using their approved credit limit. Slice's founder and executive director Rajan Bajaj had earlier told Mint that about 5 million users have accessed Slice credit till June, and half of them were new-to-credit customers.

The driving force

India boasts the youngest workforce population with a median age of 28 years, according to the Economic Survey of India 2024-25.

Also Read | Urban Indian men reject ad stereotypes, demand real portrayals

The survey added that the total dependency ratiowhich compares the number of dependent people to those of working agehas also fallen from 64.6% in 2011 to 55.7% in 2021 and is projected to decline further to 54.3% by 2026, meaning more disposable income in Gen Z's hands.

Gen Z already contributes about 46% to global consumer spending, amounting to $860 billion. In a decades time, every second rupee spent on consumer categories will come from a Gen Z individuals wallet, according to an October 2024 report by Boston Consulting Group.

There is a huge market opportunity around young professionals and even teenagers who are drawing their first paycheck and require more personalized solutions. They dont wish to manage money like older people dothey prefer agile, dynamic wealth management solutions over those offered by traditional banks and advisors," said Anirudh Garg, partner at venture capital firm Beenext, backer of BharatPe, Jupiter, and Smallcase, among others.

With average starting salaries much higher in recent years, niche money management tools are becoming essential," he added.

An increasing number of young users are using new-age solutions to boost career advancement and secure financial independence, according to a February 2025 report by fintech firm mPokket.

The report said 2025 was likely to see greater financial literacy among young borrowers, with a rise in demand for options with flexible repayment.

We are seeing that younger users have a higher propensity for DIY [do it yourself] investing, with many of them preferring to educate themselves rather than relying on traditional advisors," said Grips Laddha.

Grip launched the quick start" feature to allow first-time investors to invest as low as 100 across various asset classes and allow them to withdraw within short maturity windows.

While this feature may be useful to new users of all age groups, the flexibility of pulling out investments easily allows them to explore different investment options, especially as most young users are unaware of their risk appetite in the first months of their investment journey," Laddha added.

Grips filter and compare" featurewhich allows users to compare investment options on parameters like risk, return, and liquidityis seeing 30% higher conversion rates among users who use the feature versus those who dont, according to Laddha.

Similarly, Goteti said Gen Zs travel habits differ as they are more prone to booking international flights early in life. Scapia has, hence, introduced visa applications for 45 countries to increase engagement for users already on its platform.

Super.money is also looking to introduce commerce on its platform to enhance user engagement. On 26 July, it introduced a flight booking option to enable users to transact more frequently. Weve started experimenting with commerce features, with travel being the first. Keeping UPI as the fundamental infrastructure layer, well integrate the various layers of financial services, including insurance, credit cards, and wealth management," Sikaria said.

On their toes

Beenexts Garg, however, said some categories lend themselves better as lucrative offerings over others. Wealth management and credit are big areas of opportunity for fintechs simply by virtue of their scaling prospects among young users. Some categories like neobanks don't result in high revenue despite a large user base because most users are still using traditional bank accounts."

Also Read | What do Gen Z students want? A clean fashion industry

Neobanksor digital-only platforms that layer technology over partner banks to offer faster and more personalized financial servicesremain outside the country's direct regulatory framework, forcing them to tie up with licensed institutions for core banking functions. As growth momentum slows, several players, including Open, Fi, and Jupiter, have been struggling or pivoting.

Even fintechs will have to innovate consistently to keep up with changing transaction patterns in the age of deteriorating attention spans and evolving investment styles.
Bengaluru: Indias consumer industry is seeing more family-run businesses achieving scale, which is resulting in attractive buyout opportunities cropping up for private equity firms, a senior executive at ChrysCapital told Mint .

Moreover, generational wealth and businesses are exchanging hands within family-run businesses, prompting many entrepreneurs to sell parts of their business and creating more instances for buyouts, said Rajiv Batra, director and consumer sector lead at ChrysCapital, said.

We see the share of buyouts increasing in the next 5-7 years. As long as there are strong underlying trends and a good team, we will evaluate both minority investments as well as buyouts in the space."

Also Read | ChrysCapital about to take a big bite of Theobroma

He added that the availability of talentespecially those that are being groomed by large multinational companies and Indian conglomeratesis on the rise. This gives us the confidence that if a buyout or control deal is available and we get the right talent, its worth pursuing."

ChrysCapitals thesis comes on the heels of its acquisition of desserts chain Theobroma for an 85% stake, marking its first buyout in the consumer sector, it said on Wednesday. It is also the firms first transaction in the consumer foods space. The deal reportedly values the Mumbai-based quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain at 2,400 crore. Batra declined to comment on the valuation.

Currently, the firm has no plans of drastically changing how the patisserie chain operates, given that it believes that Theobroma is at the centre of the Western dessert opportunity in India. With the existing management team as well as the founders with their 15% stake, we should be able to work together to create strong outcomes for everyone in the coming year," said Batra.

The PE firm previously invested in Wow Skin Care and kids retailer FirstCry in the consumer segment.

In September last year, Mint was the first to report that ChrysCapital was among the three private equity firms to have submitted binding bids to acquire Theobroma Foods. In March, Mint reported that the homegrown investment firm is poised to acquire a controlling stake in the bakery chain for 2,200-2,300 crore.

The Theobroma acquisition

Founded in 2004 by sisters Kainaz Messman Harchandrai and Tina Messman Wykes, Theobroma has grown from a single Colaba cafe into a pan-India Western desserts platform, operating nearly 250-plus company-owned outlets across 45 cities. Known for its brownies, cakes, and patisserie offerings, Theobroma has created a premium positioning in the quick-service restaurant segment.

In fact, the brand's positioning as a mass premium offering is what attracted ChrysCapital to the company in the first place. They have a very good premium connect, at least in the metros. The business has gone beyond metros to tier-2 cities in the last few years. We're looking at both markets to scale the business even further," said Batra. You can't ignore one versus the other. On the mass side, you still have a large part of the belly of the India market that is waiting to be tapped."

ChrysCapital's traditional holding period for companies that have strong economics and are growing well is between 5-6 years. However, the firm didn't say what sort of returns it was expecting a company like Theobroma or future investments from the sector to provide.

ChrysCapital is looking to double down on the QSR segment, with emphasis on Indias growing affinity for cafes and gourmet offerings. The firm has noticed that Indian consumer behaviour has shifted as well, with more people seeking out organised, experience-led food consumption. I am hoping a good player emerges in the Mexican and Chinese cuisine segment, that can give a good luxury experience for Indian consumers at scale," Batra added.

The firm is inching closer toacquiring homegrown desserts chain The Belgian Waffle Co., in a deal that values the nine-year-old company at 1,300 crore, Mint reported in August last year. If it goes through, itll be the second premium QSR brand to be added to ChrysCapitals portfolio.

We had been spending a lot of time on relevant deals in QSR, but luck was not on our side. We did make a play at 2-3 of these [companies] but were not able to get to the finish line either basis price or sometimes even conviction. All these things worked in our favour this time," according to Batra.

Also Read | Goldman Demands an Oath From Junior Bankers to Fend Off Private Equity Poaching

New fund target

Armed with a $2.2 billion new fund that it raised earlier this year, ChrysCapital is looking to write larger cheques and build a bigger portfolio in India.

QSR is a space we have tracked closely, and there are enough examples in India and around the world where firms have made money. Theres also a noticeable shift from Indian desserts to Western desserts, so we were looking for opportunities, keeping in mind this macro trend," he said.

Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas and Co. served as Chryscapital's legal counsel on the Theobroma deal, and Deloitte was its financial and tax advisor.

Founded in 1999, ChrysCapital has raised nearly $8 billion across 10 private equity funds, a continuation fund, and a public markets fund. From its private equity funds, ChrysCapital has invested $5.5 billion in more than 100 deals and realized almost $8 billion from over 80 exits.
American electric vehicle (EV) giant Teslas long-awaited India entry is taking shape, but with some quirks. For one, theres no heavyweight local captain at the wheel yet. The foray is being led remotely by the companys Asia-Pacific executives.

For another, it is lapping up sales and business executives from rivals Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and MG Motor India, but at junior-to-mid experience levels.

Then, the hype of its entry is dimmed somewhat by the absence of glitz in showrooms that its luxury rivals flaunt, even as it aims for the rich consumer with cars priced upwards of 60 lakh.

Experts said the hiring strategy and placement of stores in wealthy corners of cities like Delhi and Mumbai is a sign that Tesla will solely focus on the niche premium luxury market.

Given how Tesla is positioning itself in the Indian market, they will need executives with experience of premium cars," Amit Kaushik, managing director at auto analytics firm Urban Science India, said. However, what has been notable is that the company has not gone for a very senior hire to drive its foray in the Indian market."

Also Read | Tesla leases service and retail centre space on Sohna Road in Gurugram

The company utilized its senior executives in Hong Kong to train and support the new sales representatives deployed by the company here in India, according to two people aware of the matter.

Public social media posts by Teslas new hires indicate that Andy Lo, learning and development manager at Tesla and Kenneth Lui, regional sales manager of certain South East Asian nations, were among the executives spearheading the training processes.

Along with bolstering sales presence, Tesla also hired executives from firms like Jio-bp to help expand its charging network in the country. For instance, it hired Atanu Pramanik in April, a former deputy general manager of EV Charger Operations at Jio-bp.

Sagar Tripathi, handling business development and enterprise sales at Tesla, joined in June from MG Motor where he was lead of dealer development of the western region.

Most of the hires are from junior to mid-level, with maximum experience around 10-15 years. In the absence of a senior Indian hand, executives from Asia Pacific region are leading the firm's charge.

Isabelle Fan, Tesla regional director for South East Asia, led the company's launch in the Indian market. During her presentation to mediapersons on Monday in the national capital, Fan highlighted that new locations for showrooms will be decided based on interest for vehicles and feedback from the Indian team.

The company has disclosed that it is working on service centres in Delhi NCR and Mumbai, and installing a supercharger in Bengaluru, with first deliveries scheduled to begin from September.

A request for comment from Tesla remained unanswered till press time.

Mum is the word

While the industry pieces together the strategy of the latest entrant from its public moves, Tesla executives refuse to take any questions on its strategy, booking numbers, or about competition from Chinese rival BYD, which has managed to dethrone it as the number one electric vehicle (EV) seller of the world.

We are not allowed to discuss details about any plan yet," one Tesla executive present at the launch said, adding that the company doesnt have a dedicated base in India yet from where it is crafting its strategy.

Kaushik said that the Indian market is unique and Tesla's cars will also have to pass the test of Indian roads, especially given their low ground clearance compared to SUVs of Indian car makers.

While the positioning of its cars is luxury, Tesla's showroom in Delhi stood out for its no-frills approach with bare minimum extra features, unlike its rivals like Mercedes and BMW which have been working on increasing the premium experience for customers.

Also Read | Luxury cars not the biggest opportunity UK senses in India after FTA

Teslas Delhi showroom, located in a posh locality of Aerocity, displays two variants of Model Y priced at 59 lakh and 67 lakh.

Anurag Singh, advisor at Primus Partners, a consultancy, suggests that Tesla is looking to woo customers using a combination of its premium digital capabilities and work processes that it is known for globally.

As of today, they will have to pay high duties, (cars) would be priced high and, hence, would have to target the premium customers first," Singh said.

However, Tesla's strategy in India faces the limitation of capabilities and regulatory approvals to offer fully automatic services of its cars, for which it is known globally. The companys chief executive officer Elon Musk has repeatedly bet on increasing automation of its cars, and is focusing on robocabs in its home market.

But in India, it has been forced to offer a basic advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) in the Model Y.

The companys entry is also coming at a time when Indias luxury car market reached an all time high of 51,000 units sold in FY25, but saw growth slow to 3%.
A disruption in the Russian oil exports may create a major problem for the global economy; however in case of India, the impact is expected to be limited, according to a report by Bank of Baroda.

The report indicated that the impact on India's oil import bill is estimated to be approximately $ 5 billion per year, which is viewed as manageable considering the country's overall trade volume.

For the world economy, there could be a greater problem if there is a full embargo on Russian oil exports, the report said.

India's oil imports It further noted that India's crude oil imports have undergone significant changes in recent years. Prior to the Ukraine war in 2021-22, Russia's contribution to India's crude oil imports was relatively small.

By 2024-25, Russia had become the leading supplier, with Iraq next at 19 per cent, Saudi Arabia at 14 per cent, and the UAE close behind with nearly 10 per cent.

Also Read | India can wean off Russian oil without heavy costs

These four nations made up nearly 80 per cent of India's total oil imports in 2024-25. The United States' share, previously significant, varied over time and has been lower in recent years.

Prices vary considerably among suppliers due to factors such as logistics, quality, and purchase timing.

Iraq offered the lowest average price, at $76.83 per barrel, with Russia close behind at $78.39 per barrel, approximately $1.56 lower than India's overall average price in 2024-25.

In June 2025, India's average import price was approximately $ 69 per barrel. Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Nigeria, and Brazil all had prices below $ 70 per barrel. Notably, Russian oil was not the cheapest that month, since Kuwait and Iraq offered lower prices.

Also Read | Ukraine's Zelenskyy calls for limiting Russian oil purchases in talks with Modi

India imported approximately 244 million tonnes of crude oil in 2024-25, or about 1.8 billion barrels. An increase of $1 in oil prices results in roughly $1.8 billion more in import expenses.

Manageable impact Since June's average price was just $ 2.50 higher than Russian levels, the report emphasised that the potential impact would be manageable.

The overall impact hence would not be more than $ 4.5-5 bn on an annual basis. Given that overall imports of goods were $ 720 bn, this would not be a significant increase which cannot be absorbed, the report said.

Also Read | Oil prices dip as market awaits EIA report

However, Russia contributes approximately 10% of the world's oil supply, and a full embargo could cause prices to exceed $80 per barrel in the near term. This situation is expected to strain economies worldwide until new supplies are secured.
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 13 (ANI): Yash Raj Films' 'War 2' is set for a fierce clash with Rajinikanth starrer 'Coolie' over the Independence Day weekend.

Ahead of the big screen showdown, Hrithik Roshan has shared his best wishes for the legendary actor. He also congratulated Rajinikanth on his celebrated 50-year career in the film industry.

"Took my first steps as an actor at your side. You were one of my first teachers, @rajinikanth sir, and continue to be an inspiration and a standard. Congratulations on completing 50 years of on-screen magic!" Hrithik wrote on X.

In his post, Hrithik appeared to be recalling his early days as a child actor, when he worked with Rajinikanth in 'Bhagwaan Dada' (1986).

The post quickly struck chords with fans, as many found the gesture to be in good faith and respectful.

On August 14, both 'War 2' and 'Coolie' will make their theatrical openings, marking a much-awaited moment.

Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, 'Coolie' features the superstar in a powerful new look as the lead protagonist. Actor Nagarjuna is seen as the villain, while Aamir Khan is also set to make a cameo in the film.

Aamir and Rajinikanth previously worked together in the 1995 film, 'Aatank Hi Aatank,' thus marking their reunion after nearly three decades. The trailer for 'Coolie' has been released, giving a glimpse of the intense action sequences, dramatic moments, and strong dialogues.

Aamir Khan as Dahaa also makes an entry in the trailer.

On the other hand, Hrithik Roshan is returning as the fearless warrior - a "nameless, faceless shadow." He has been set against a new villain, Jr NTR, who strives to "fight battles of the country that no one else can."

Kiara Advani is also a part of the film.
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 13 (ANI): It has been seven years since the world lost Sridevi, but her legacy and charm are still alive in the hearts of her millions of fans. On her 62nd birth anniversary today, family, friends, and admirers fondly remembered the legendary actress.

Sridevi, celebrated as the first female superstar of Indian cinema, had an unmatched career spanning Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu films. Her untimely passing in 2018 left a void in the industry, but her work and memories continue to inspire.

Among those who shared heartfelt tributes was her husband, film producer Boney Kapoor. Posting a beautiful still of Sridevi from her film English Vinglish on Instagram, he expressed how she remains forever young in his heart. Calling her "26" even today, he wrote, "Yes, you are not 62 today. You are 26. Happy birthday; we are still reliving all your happy birthdays."

He later shared another post, where he fondly reminisced about a birthday party from 1990. In the post, he recalled how, with a cheeky smile, he told Sridevi she was turning "26" even though she was actually 27 just to make her laugh.

The caption of the post read, "In 1990, her birthday party in chennai when I wished her happy 26th birthday while it was her 27th birthday to make her feel that she had gone younger & it was a compliment , that with every passing day she is getting younger but she taught I was teasing her"

Fans quickly filled the comments with love and admiration. One wrote, "Always in our hearts," while another remembered her as "The only female superstar. We miss you, Legend."

In a career spanning over five decades, Sridevi was honoured with several prestigious awards and was also given the Padma Shri - India's fourth-highest civilian honour - in 2013. The actress made her acting debut at the age of four with the 1967 Tamil film 'Kandhan Karunai.' Later, in 1972, she made her first appearance in Bollywood with the film 'Rani Mera Naam.'

She went on to leave an indelible mark on her fans with several iconic roles in Hindi films like 'Chandni', 'Lamhe', 'Mr India', 'Chaalbaaz', 'Nagina', 'Sadma' and 'English Vinglish', among others. Her last film was 'Mom', for which she also received the Best Actress National Award, posthumously.
New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI) State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has reported a 10 per cent decline in its June quarter net profit on lower oil prices and stagnant production from its aging fields.

The company reported a net profit of 8,024 crore in the first quarter of 2025-26 fiscal year, compared to 8,938 crore earning in the same period last year, a company statement said.

The firm realised USD 67.87 for every barrel of crude oil it pumped out of ground and below seabed from sale to refiners, who convert it into fuels like petrol and diesel, as compared to USD 80.64 per barrel realisation in April-June 2024.

Price of natural gas, which is used to generate electricity, produce fertiliser or turned into CNG and piped cooking gas, marginally rose to USD 6.64 per million British thermal units in Q1 from USD 6.5 in last year.

ONGC said gas from new wells it drills is eligible for a 20 per cent premium over the government set price, called APM.

"ONGC is actively working to boost output from such wells. In Q1 of 2025-26 (FY26), revenue from new well gas stood at 1,703 crore, delivering an additional 333 crore compared to the APM gas price," the statement said.

The company produced 4.683 million tonnes of crude oil in Q1, almost the same as last year's 4.629 million tonnes. Gas output too was almost unchanged at 4.846 billion cubic meters in the quarter.

During the quarter, the firm made two discoveries of hydrocarbons in the Mumbai offshore.

Other highlights of the quarter included commencement of production from the PY-3 field -- a joint venture of ONGC, Hardy Exploration & Production (India) Inc, and Invenire Petrodyne Ltd located offshore in the Cauvery Basin on the east coast of India. The field is producing 4,000 barrels of oil per day and 88,000 standard cubic meters a day of gas.

Also, North Karanpura CBM block was put on production.

"ONGC commenced the supply of treated natural gas from its newly established gas treatment facility at Palatana, Tripura on June 9. 2025. The gas is being supplied to the city gas distribution (CGD) network in the Gomati through GAIL, enhancing the region's access to cleaner fuel," the statement said.

The firm said it has got special dispensation from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for selling gas to Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd (RRVUNL) at USD 6.5 per mmBtu from Jodhpur. RRVUNL conveyed their consent for offtake of around 0.1 million standard cubic meters per day of gas using the existing GAIL gas pipeline.
Hanoi, Aug 13 (AP) Beneath red banners and a gold bust of revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi's central party school, Communist Party chief To Lam declared the arrival of a new era of development late last year.

The speech was more than symbolic it signalled the launch of what could be Vietnam's most ambitious economic overhaul in decades.

Vietnam aims to get rich by 2045 and become Asia's next tiger economy  a term used to describe the earlier ascent of countries like South Korea and Taiwan.

The challenge ahead is steep: Reconciling growth with overdue reforms, an aging population, climate risks and creaking institutions. There's added pressure from President Donald Trump over Vietnam's trade surplus with the US, a reflection of its astounding economic trajectory.

In 1990, the average Vietnamese could afford about USD 1,200 worth of goods and services a year, adjusted for local prices. Today, that figure has risen by more than 13 times to USD 16,385.

Vietnam's transformation into a global manufacturing hub with shiny new highways, high-rise skylines and a booming middle class has lifted millions of its people from poverty, similar to China.

But its low-cost, export-led boom is slowing, while the proposed reforms  expanding private industries, strengthening social protections, and investing in tech, green energy. It faces a growing obstacle in climate change.

It's all hands on deck...We can't waste time anymore," said Mimi Vu of the consultancy Raise Partners.

The export boom can't carry Vietnam forever

Investment has soared, driven partly by US-China trade tensions, and the US is now Vietnam's biggest export market. Once-quiet suburbs have been replaced with industrial parks where trucks rumble through sprawling logistics hubs that serve global brands.

Vietnam ran a USD 123.5 billion trade surplus with the US trade in 2024, angering Trump, who threatened a 46 per cent US import tax on Vietnamese goods. The two sides appear to have settled on a 20 per cent levy, and twice that for goods suspected of being transshipped, or routed through Vietnam to avoid US trade restrictions.

During negotiations with the Trump administration, Vietnam's focus was on its tariffs compared to those of its neighbours and competitors, said Daniel Kritenbrink, a former US ambassador to Vietnam.

As long as they're in the same zone, in the same ballpark, I think Vietnam can live with that outcome," he said. But he added questions remain over how much Chinese content in those exports might be too much and how such goods will be taxed.

Vietnam was preparing to shift its economic policies even before Trump's tariffs threatened its model of churning out low-cost exports for the world, aware of what economists call the middle-income trap, when economies tend to plateau without major reforms.

To move beyond that, South Korea bet on electronics, Taiwan on semiconductors, and Singapore on finance, said Richard McClellan, founder of the consultancy RMAC Advisory.

But Vietnam's economy today is more diverse and complex than those countries were at the time and it can't rely on just one winning sector to drive long-term growth and stay competitive as wages rise and cheap labour is no longer its main advantage.

It needs to make multiple big bets, McClellan said.

Vietnam's game plan is hedging its bets

Following China's lead, Vietnam is counting on high-tech sectors like computer chips, artificial intelligence and renewable energy, providing strategic tax breaks and research support in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang.

It's also investing heavily in infrastructure, including civilian nuclear plants and a USD 67 billion NorthSouth high-speed railway, that will cut travel time from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to eight hours.

Vietnam also aspires to become a global financial centre. The government plans two special financial centres, in bustling Ho Chi Minh City and in the seaside resort city of Danang, with simplified rules to attract foreign investors, tax breaks, support for financial tech startups, and easier ways to settle business disputes.

Underpinning all of this is institutional reform. Ministries are being merged, low-level bureaucracies have been eliminated and Vietnam's 63 provinces will be consolidated into 34 to build regional centres with deeper talent pools.

Private business to take the lead

Vietnam is counting on private businesses to lead its new economic push  a seismic shift from the past.

In May, the Communist Party passed Resolution 68. It calls private businesses the most important force in the economy, pledging to break away from domination by state-owned and foreign companies.

So far, large multinationals have powered Vietnam's exports, using imported materials and parts and low cost local labour.

Local companies are stuck at the low-end of supply chains, struggling to access loans and markets that favoured the 700-odd state-owned giants, from colonial-era beer factories with arched windows to unfashionable state-run shops that few customers bother to enter.

The private sector remains heavily constrained," said Nguyen Khac Giang of Singapore's ISEASYusof Ishak Institute.

Again emulating China, Vietnam wants national champions to drive innovation and compete globally, not by picking winners, but by letting markets decide.

The policy includes easier loans for companies investing in new technology, priority in government contracts for those meeting innovation goals, and help for firms looking to expand overseas. Even mega-projects like the North-South High-Speed Rail, once reserved for state-run giants, are now open to private bidding.
Chinas ambition to turn its open-source artificial-intelligence models into a global standard has jolted American companies and policymakers, who fear U.S. models could be eclipsed and are mobilizing their responses to the threat.

Chinese advances in AI have come one after another this year, starting with the widely heralded DeepSeek and its R1 reasoning model in January. This was followed by Alibabas Qwen and a flurry of others since July, with names such as Moonshot, Z.ai and MiniMax.

The models all have versions that are free for users to download and modify. This approach, commonly referred to as open source or open weight, is driving global adoption of Chinese AI technology.

American companies that have kept their models proprietary are feeling the pressure. In early August, ChatGPT maker OpenAI released its first open-source model, called gpt-oss.

The history of technology offers many examples where a welter of competitors in an industrys infancy eventually evolved into a monopoly or oligopoly of a few players. Microsofts Windows operating system for desktops, Googles search engine, and the iOS and Android operating systems for smartphones are just a few of the examples.

History also teaches that the battle to become an industry standard isnt necessarily won by the most technologically advanced player. Easy availability and flexibility play a role, which is why Chinas advances in open-source AI worry many in Washington and Silicon Valley.

In an AI action plan released in July, the Trump administration said open-source models could become global standards in some areas of business and in academic research." The report called on the U.S. to build leading open models founded on American values."

President Trump displayed a signed executive order related to his Artificial Intelligence Action Plan last month.

For now, the rewards to the winners in open-source AI are slim, since they spend hundreds of millions of dollars developing models and get paid nothing directly in return. But those who lock in users may be able to sell other services piggybacking on the free part, just as Google offers search, YouTube and other revenue-generating products bundled with its Android operating system.

Android is itself open source and built on Linux, an open-source operating system still widely used in the industry.

Researchers have long embraced open source as a way of accelerating the development of emerging technology, since it allows every user to see the code and suggest improvements. Chinese officials have encouraged open-source research and development not only in AI but also in operating systems, semiconductor architecture and engineering software.

Fearing being cut off from American technologies, China is fostering open-source projects as a strategic fallback and emergency resource," said Lian Jye Su, an analyst at research firm Omdia focusing on AI.

This years U.S.-China trade war has shown how each side can leverage its industrial advantagessuch as Nvidia chips for the U.S. and rare-earth minerals for Chinato extract concessions from the other side. U.S. officials worry that if Chinese AI models dominate the globe, Beijing will figure out a way to exploit it for geopolitical advantage.

Away from politics, open-source AI models are vying for adoption by businesses. Many customers like open-source AI because they can freely adapt it and put it on their computer systems, keeping sensitive information in-house.

Singapore-based Oversea-Chinese Banking, one of Southeast Asias biggest banks, has developed around 30 internal tools using open-source models, including Googles Gemma to summarize documents, Qwen to help write computer code and DeepSeek to analyze market trends.

The bank said it avoided being locked into any one model. It monitors new releases and can switch if it likes a new model. It also prefers models that many developers are familiar with, so it can get technical support.

At any point in time, we probably have a stable of about 10 open-source models that were using," said Donald MacDonald, an executive at OCBC.

The overall performance of Chinas best open-weight model has surpassed the American open-source champion since November, according to research firm Artificial Analysis. The firm, which rates the ability of models in math, coding and other areas, found a version of Alibabas Qwen3 beat OpenAIs gpt-oss.

However, the Chinese model is almost twice as big as OpenAIs, suggesting that for simpler tasks, Qwen might consume more computing power to do the same job. OpenAI said its open-source model outperformed rivals of similar size on reasoning tasks and delivered strong performance at low cost.

Major U.S. cloud-service providers have started offering gpt-oss to their users. Amazon Web Services said the OpenAI model was more cost-effective than DeepSeeks R1 running on its infrastructure.

Engineers, especially those in Asia, said they found Chinese models were often more sophisticated in understanding their local languages and catching cultural nuances. Models from China are trained with more data in Chinese, which shares similarities with some other Asian languages.

Shinichi Usami, an engineer in Yokohama, Japan, recently developed a customer-service chatbot for a retail client. He chose Alibabas Qwen.

With a leading U.S. model, he said, weve observed instances where the chatbot struggles to grasp the implicit intent from users words and the responses can occasionally be not polite enough," said Usami. Qwen appears to handle these nuances better."

Companies in Chinas hypercompetitive AI industry at first focused on undercutting each others prices for closed-source models. That competition has extended in recent months to open-source models as everyone fights for adoption and public recognition.

Chinese companies often prioritize user stickiness over immediate revenue," said Charlie Chai, a Shanghai-based tech analyst at 86Research.

While startups have a window to attract users, it wont last long, analysts said, and larger tech companies are often best-positioned to cash in on a big user base by offering related services such as specialized apps or cloud services.

This Darwinian life-or-death struggle will lead to the demise of many of the existing players, but the intense competition breeds strong companies," wrote Andrew Ng, head of Silicon Valley startup DeepLearning.AI, in a recent blog.

Write to Raffaele Huang at raffaele.huang@wsj.com
Educational exposure of ideas, assumptions or hypotheses, based on proven facts" (which need not be strictly current affairs) Value in judgments are excluded, and the text comes close to an opinion article, without judging or making forecasts , just formulating hypotheses, giving motivated explanations and bringing together a variety of data

Alaska is not Crimea, and in the Russian collective imagination, that region in the Bering Strait is associated with difficult expeditions long ago, not with the pleasant childhood experiences of Russian citizens who were once Soviet subjects, as is the case with the Ukrainian peninsula in the Black Sea, annexed by Moscow in 2014 contrary to international law.

Alaska is where Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump will meet Friday for a summit that could be crucial for the future of Ukraine. The choice of this location  which a Russian president has never set foot on  is no coincidence.

Within the spectrum of Russian nationalism, both the philosopher Alexander Dugin, the theorist of the Eurasian idea, and the Orthodox businessman Konstantin Malofeev have reacted positively to the choice of Alaska.

Of course, Alaska shouldnt have been sold, stated Dugin on his Telegram channel, advising the Russian president to give nothing and take everything at the meeting. If we dont punish Kyiv and the West for everything theyve done to us, no one will take us seriously.

For his part, Malofeev, the financier who promoted the annexation of Crimea and later facilitated the arrival of Russian fighters in Donetsk in 2014, describes the decision as exotic at first glance, but the most correct one, and argues that it avoids giving away to just anyone the laurels of mediator between Russia and the U.S. [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelenskiy will find it convenient to arrive in case the adults call him to read them poetry after dinner, the tycoon states with causticity.

In his book Empire, Malofeev wrote that the sale of Alaska was prompted by the financial crisis and also because the Russian Empire wanted to secure a peaceful neighbor and keep Britain away from those regions. However, the domination of Alaska substantially strengthened Washington and whetted American colonial appetites, he noted.

On the website of the Tsargrad TV channel, which Malofeev founded, it was stated that the choice of Alaska as the venue for the meeting between Putin and Trump is not accidental. This is the place where the Russian flag was first sold and the will of Emperor Nicholas I was violated. The Russian flag should not be lowered where it has once been raised, the commentary said.

Sold in 1867 by Tsar Alexander II to the United States for 7.2 million gold rubles, Alaska became part of American Russia, as the group of coastal colonies conquered by Russian explorers and travelers is known, including points in California such as Fort Ross.

Alaska and Chukotka, the Russian peninsula west of the Bering Strait, are separated by just 86 kilometers (53 miles) in a straight line, and today the only border between the U.S. and Russia runs through there. Most of the Aleutian Islands, a long chain of nearly 150 islands, remain on the North American side.

After expanding into eastern Siberia, the Russian Empire began colonizing Alaska in the 18th century, especially during the reign of Catherine the Great. And in 1799, under Emperor Paul I, the Russian America Company was established, a state entity under the patronage of the Tsar, whose purpose was to exploit Alaskas hunting, fishing, and natural resources. However, the region was not profitable, partly due to overexploitation and theft of its produce. As early as 1853 (at the time of the beginning of the Crimean War in the Black Sea), the imperial administration considered selling the territory. The transaction was completed in 1867. Gold and oil would follow later.

To date, established Russian propagandists have not raised any potential territorial claims to Alaska, although there is no shortage of laments among ultranationalist circles about having lost it.

The annexation of Crimea in 2014 demonstrated that Putins Russia is not exactly known for respecting its international and bilateral agreements (in which it repeatedly recognized Ukraines territorial integrity). However, if for Putin and his entourage Ukraine is not a state, the U.S. is, on the other hand, the desired partner, envied and hated at the same time, with whom they would like to reestablish a privileged relationship that, in some ways, would evoke that between the two superpowers during the Cold War.

But the world today is not bipolar, and the Russia-U.S. duo is incomplete without China, especially if it takes place in the North Pacific and at the eastern beginning of the route across the Arctic Circle.

Alaska was the subject of a very popular song composed in 1990 in the USSR. It was sung by the group Liube and went like this: Dont play dumb, America. Dont play dumb, America, [] give us back our little land of Alaska, give us back our beloved land.

Siberia and Alaska, the two lands are the same, sauna, vodka, accordion, and salmon, sang the soloist Nikolai Rastorguev, who later became a follower of Putin, campaigned for the president, and supported the annexation of Crimea, for which he has been sanctioned in the West.

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THIS TIME they were invited. On May 22nd locals cheered as German tanks rolled through the streets of Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital once occupied by the Nazis. City buses flashed tributes to the fraternal bonds linking the nato allies. Even so, when the Bundeswehrs brass band struck up a rendition of Prussias Glory", some of the German dignitaries assembled for the inauguration of their armys 45th Panzer brigade felt a twinge of unease. It wasnt until they saw the beaming faces of their Lithuanian counterparts that they were able to enjoy the show.

The armoured brigade, which will number 5,000 by 2027, is Germanys first permanent deployment abroad since the second world war. It is also the starkest sign of the extraordinary turn taken by a country that took full receipt of the peace dividend after 1990, sheltering under American protection as its own army withered and its commercial ties with Russia strengthened (see chart 1). The Lithuania decision was taken in 2023 as part of the Zeitenwende, or turning-point", in security policy instigated by Olaf Scholz, the then chancellor, after Russias invasion of Ukraine. The 100bn ($114bn) spending spree he unleashed has already given Germany the worlds fourth-biggest defence budget, reckons the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

More is to come. Bolstered by a recent decision to loosen Germanys debt brake, a fiscal straitjacket, the new government plans to ramp up defence spending further. Indeed, rearmament is set to become its animating mission. Friedrich Merz, the chancellor, says he intends to make the Bundeswehr the strongest conventional army in Europe". He has also signalled that Germany will sign up to a new long-term nato defence-spending target of 3.5% of gdp, plus 1.5% for related infrastructure, at a summit this montha total that would translate into 215bn a year at todays level of output. (A budget will follow the nato summit.) Like the Lithuanians, almost all of Germanys allies are delighted by the countrys belated commitment to European security. Haltingly, and not without a degree of historically inflected torment, Germans themselves are getting there too.

Mr Scholzs fund largely filled in the potholes", as General Carsten Breuer, the head of the armed forces, has put it, but much remains to be done. The coming wave of spending will aim to bolster Germanys role as natos critical backbone". Priorities include reinforcing air defence, refilling ammunition stocks and building long-range precision-strike capabilities.

Officials priorities are clear. Time is of the essence," says General Alfons Mais, the head of the army, encouraging Germanys defence industry to focus on mass production. Insiders are sceptical about building up domestic or European industry at the expense of off-the-shelf solutions from elsewhere, such as America, in the name of strategic autonomy". If we face delays or delivery challenges at home," says General Mais, its better to take a broader approach and look at who can deliver."

Some worry that Germany is failing to learn from Ukraine, with its drone swarms and transparent" battlefields. Tech in Germany is amazing," says Nico Lange, a former defence-ministry official. But the political side does not know how to use it." No one wants to fight the last war by building up stockpiles of drones that quickly become obsolete. But planners also need to ensure Germany is not left over-reliant on legacy systems. We need a market-driven industry that innovates, fails in one place and succeeds elsewhere, using private capital," says Gundbert Scherf, the co-ceo of Helsing, a startup with a focus on ai-enabled land, air and maritime systems.

Upgrading the Bundeswehr also means tackling a sluggish planning and procurement bureaucracy. When Mr Merz proposed his change to the debt brake, he said he would do whatever it takes" to protect peace and freedom in Europe. Yet turning the money taps on first inevitably reduces the pressure to reform, notes Claudia Major of the German Marshall Fund, a think-tank. Germanys federal audit office recently called for far-reaching changes" to a Bundeswehr it said had become top-heavy" with management. Many experts share this analysis. Procurement takes too long," laments General Mais. Signing a contract is one thing, getting the stuff to the troops is another."

A common grumble is that Germany gold-plates" its processes, imposing onerous requirements such as ensuring tanks are suitable for pregnant women. The 80% solution now is better than the 100% one in five years," says Matthias Wachter, head of security policy at the Federation of German Industries. The German iris-t air-defence system, which has proved itself in Ukraine, is nevertheless still undergoing testing for domestic use.

Tackling these roadblocks falls to Boris Pistorius, the defence minister, whose plain speaking has made him Germanys most popular politician. Despite that, not everyone is convinced he has the patience to grapple seriously with the Bundeswehrs bureaucracy. He is the best minister weve had for years," says Sara Nanni, a Green mp on the Bundestags defence committee. But he can be a bit superficial." A new law, the imperiously named Planungs- und Beschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz (Planning and Procurement Acceleration Act), aims to relax some regulations. But merely tweaking the system may not be enough.

Are Germans ready to make themselves kriegstuchtig, or war-ready", as Mr Pistorius has demanded? Paranoid about reopening the social rifts of the covid-19 years in a country that retains a scepticism about military force, Mr Scholz was cautious in his rhetoric and halting in his help for Ukraine; Mr Merz strikes a sharper tone. Vestiges of the old attitude remain, such as the self-imposed bans at dozens of universities on accepting government money for military research. Ms Major worries that if Ukraine is forced into a dirty ceasefire", the momentum of recent years may be squandered as calls for diplomacy and detente with Russia gather steam.

So far, perhaps because skirting the debt brake has allowed Germany to avoid guns-or-butter trade-offs, voters have by and large backed the changes (see chart 2). Attitudes towards the army are changing, too. Soldiers marvel at the esteem they now encounter in daily life. Sometimes when Im on the street people stop me to say, Thank you for your servicelike in America!" exclaims one cadet officer.

A trickier test will come when Germany begins a serious debate over restoring conscription, which was suspended under Angela Merkel in 2011. The Bundeswehr is struggling to get troop numbers over 180,000, well short of the current target of 203,000, itself likely to be lifted after the nato summit. Given Germanys nato commitments, General Breuer thinks Germany will need 100,000 extra troops, including reservists, by 2029.

For now, Mr Merzs government hopes to get there with compulsory questionnaires for 18-year-old men (an extension to women would need a constitutional change). That will at least buy time to rebuild Germanys crumbling barracks and hire the military trainers a bigger army needs. But hardly anyone thinks an element of compulsion can be avoided. Im absolutely convinced we will have this debate," says General Mais. Polls find a majority of Germans in favour of restoring conscription; support is predictably lowest among the young.

A long march ahead

Germanys various agonies found expression at a recent Zeitenwende on Tour" event in Gorlitz, an east German town on the Polish border where nearly half of voters support the hard-right, pro-Russia Alternative for Germany party. Mr Lange, the former defence official, led a discussion on rearmament in front of a disputatious audience. Some angrily blamed nato enlargement for the Ukraine war, or issued jeremiads against profiteering arms companies. Others pushed back. Andre, a hospital worker who had driven from Dresden to support the case for rearmament, says the issue splits his colleagues 50-50.

The government should have been doing this from the start," says Mr Lange, who has been taking his message to Germans for over three years. It is grinding work, especially since Germans are now being asked to make sacrifices on behalf of foreign lands. In Vilnius, Mr Merz said: Lithuanias security is also our security," a plain statement of his countrys nato commitments that also implies tough demands of ordinary Germans. Only now, perhaps, is that message beginning to get through.

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Tsvi Benson-Tilsen, a mathematician, spent seven years researching how to keep an advanced form of artificial intelligence from destroying humanity before he concluded that stopping it wasnt possibleat least anytime soon.

Now, hes turned his considerable brainpower to promoting cutting-edge technology to create smarter humans who will be up to the task of saving us all.

My intuition is its one of our best hopes," said Benson-Tilsen, co-founder of the Berkeley Genomics Project, a nonprofit supporting the new field.

This isnt science fiction. It is Silicon Valley, where interest in breeding smarter babies is peaking.

Parents here are paying up to $50,000 for new genetic-testing services that include promises to screen embryos for IQ. Tech futurists such as Elon Musk are urging the intellectually gifted to multiply, while professional matchmakers are setting up tech execs with brilliant partners partly to get brilliant offspring.

Right now I have one, two, three tech CEOs and all of them prefer Ivy League," said Jennifer Donnelly, a high-end matchmaker who charges up to $500,000.

The fascination with what some call genetic optimization" reflects deeper Silicon Valley beliefs about merit and success. I think they have a perception that they are smart and they are accomplished, and they deserve to be where they are because they have good genes," said Sasha Gusev, a statistical geneticist at Harvard Medical School. Now they have a tool where they think that they can do the same thing in their kids as well, right?"

The growing IQ fetish is sparking debate, with bioethicists raising alarms about the new genetic-screening services.

Is it fair? This is something a lot of people worry about," said Hank Greely, director of the Center for Law and the Biosciences at Stanford University. It is a great science fiction plot: The rich people create a genetically super caste that takes over and the rest of us are proles."

Yet in Silicon Valley, where top preschools require IQ tests and openness to novelty runs high, parents arent burdened by moral quandaries of using technology to select for their childrens intelligence before birth.

Silicon Valley, they love IQ

There is a whole ecosystem now of usually super high net-worth people, or rationalist people who are obsessed with intelligence like in Berkeley, who really want to know the IQ scores so they can use that as one of the criteria for selecting their embryo," said Stephen Hsu, co-founder of Genomic Prediction, among the earliest companies to offer genetic testing of embryos.

Startups Nucleus Genomics and Herasight have begun publicly offering IQ predictions, based on genetic tests, to help people select which embryos to use for in vitro fertilization. Bay Area demand is high for the services, costing around $6,000 at Nucleus and up to $50,000 at Herasight.

Kian Sadeghi at the Nucleus Genomics office.

Silicon Valley, they love IQ," said Kian Sadeghi, founder of Nucleus Genomics. Thats not necessarily what parents elsewhere value most. You talk to mom and pop Americanot every parent is like, I want my kid to be, you know, a scholar at Harvard. Like, no, I want my kid to be like LeBron James."

Among those whove turned to such testing are Simone and Malcolm Collins, leaders in the budding pronatalist movement, which encourages lots of babies. The couple, who worked in tech and venture capital, have four children through IVF, and used Herasight to analyze some of their embryos.

Simone Collins said they chose the embryo she is now pregnant with because it had a low reported risk for cancer. But they were also happy because he was in the 99th percentile per his polygenic score in likelihood of having really exceptionally high intelligence."

Simone and Malcolm Collins have used genetic-screening startup Herasight to analyze some of their embryos.

We just thought that was the coolest thing," she said.

They plan to name him Tex Demeisen. His middle name, she noted, comes from Iain M. Bankss science-fiction novel Surface Detail," after the avatar of a warship known as Falling Outside the Normal Moral Constraints.

Collins said higher intelligence is associated with many good things, such as higher income, but she really wishes there were genetic tests that could screen for ambition.

I will matters a hell of a lot more than I can," she said. If grit and ambition and curiosityif we had polygenic scores for those things wed be much more interested."

Fairly typical for computer people

Few couples would endure the difficult and expensive process of IVF unless necessary. But one Bay Area couple, both software engineers, willingly chose it.

The couple worried about diseases in their families such as Alzheimers and cancer. They also cared about IQ forecasts because they hoped their kids might be able to solve the worlds important problems and enjoy the life of the mind.

They described themselves as fairly typical for computer people" who like science fiction, logic puzzles and friendly arguments.

When the results arrived from Herasight, they made a shared Google spreadsheet and both ranked the importance of each trait.

What percent additional lifetime risk for Alzheimers balances a 1% decrease in lifetime risk for bipolar?" they wrote. How much additional risk of ADHD cancels out against 10 extra IQ points?" After vigorous discussion and some complex calculations, they came up with scores for each embryo.

The embryo with the highest total score, which also had the third-highest predicted IQ, became their daughter.

They arent just thinking about love

How good is anyone at predicting IQ with genetic tests?

The answer is not very good," said Shai Carmi, an associate professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem who pioneered the models used for such predictions.

Carmi said researchers have found some correlation between cognitive ability and the cumulative effect of thousands of variants in the human genome. Current models explain about 5% to 10% of the differences in cognitive ability between people, he noted.

If parents rank their embryos by the predicted IQ, they could gain between three and four points on average compared with choosing randomly, he said. Its not going to be something to make your child a prodigy."

Nucleus Genomics developed software to analyze and compare embryos.

Experts also caution about unintended consequences. Traits some may not want for their children could come along with selecting for high IQ.

If youre selecting on what you think is the highest IQ embryo, you could also be, at the same time unwittingly selecting on an embryo with the highest Autism Spectrum Disorder risk," said Gusev, the Harvard statistical geneticist.

Scholars note there are more traditional, millenia-old ways to aim for a brighter kid, such as education or reproducing with another smart person. Thats probably more fun," said Paula Amato, a fertility doctor at Oregon Health & Science University.

In Silicon Valley, even the traditional approaches can be costly, with tech execs enlisting professionals to find intelligent partners.

Intelligence and high IQ is discussed all the time," said Donnelly, the high-end matchmaker, based in Dallas. Though not discussed as openly, these clients are all thinking about their future offspring.

They want to raise high-performing children, right?" Donnelly explained. They arent just thinking about love, theyre thinking about genetics, the educational outcomes and the legacy."

More geniuses

The most unusual motive for making smarter babies is emerging from a brainy group of computer scientists in Berkeley. Known as the rationalists, they fear that AI poses an existential risk to humanity.

They think one of the ways that possibly we could make safe AI is if we had smarter humans building them," said Hsu, the Genomic Prediction co-founder. Some of these guys are committed to a long-term eugenics program where they create smarter humans, and the smarter humans are the ones that make AI safe."

Benson-Tilsen, the son of a rabbi and a leader in this effort, likes to phrase his aims very carefully. He said he wants to enable parents to make genomic choices, including raising the expected IQ of their kid."

This element of parental choice, he said, is a critical difference between the rationalist push for smarter babies and the dark history of government eugenics programs, such as Nazi Germanys elimination of undesirable" people.

Benson-Tilsen said he believes people with more brainpower might be able to figure out how to make AI align with human valuesor convince people not to build it at all.

Im interested in things that will have sort of large effects," he said, and in particular things that will make more geniuses, as it were."

Write to Zusha Elinson at zusha.elinson@wsj.com
An American couple is throwing a party to commemorate the moment when they discover what sex their unborn child will be. Its a boy!" they blurt out, in a TikTok video that has since gone viral. But the mother-to-be cannot feign excitement for long. Within seconds she is clutching her partner and sobbing. He reassures her that they will have a daughter at some point, before they leave the room, too upset to stay with their guests.

Gender reveal" parties can be elaborate, with the news of what sex an expectant couples baby will be delivered by confetti cannons or smoke bombs, which explode in telltale pink or blue. There are breathless hashtags: #boyorgirl and #TractorsOrTiaras. But festivities that end in disappointment for the unsuspecting #boymom and pity from those attending have spawned a whole new genre on social media, gender disappointment" videos, some of which attract millions of views. Countless posts show or describe feeling sad you arent having a little girl".

Parents around the world used to have a pronounced preference for sons. In many cultures boys traditionally inherit both the familys name and its wealth. Indeed, sons were considered so much more desirable than daughters that many parents would choose to abort baby girls, leaving whole cohorts of children with far more boys than girls in China and India, among other places. But in recent years that preference for boys has diminished dramatically in developing countriesand signs of a bias in favour of girls are emerging in the rich world. For perhaps the first time in humanitys long history, in many parts of the world it is boys who are increasingly seen as a burden and girls who are a boon.

In the natural course of things, there are roughly 105 male births for every 100 female ones, which appears to be an evolutionary response to higher male mortality. The rate does fluctuate somewhat, for reasons scientists do not fully understand. Male births tend to spike immediately after wars, for instance. But until the 1980s, when ultrasound became cheap enough to let most would-be parents learn the sex of a fetus, there were few ways to act on a preference for boys beyond having lots of children and coddling the male ones. And since families tended to be big, most parents would anyway end up with a mix of boys and girls.

Little bundles of misery

In recent decades, however, as parents in much of the world began having fewer children, they could no longer assume that at least one of their children would be a boy. Ultrasound gave parents a way to choose. The result was a massacre of female fetuses. Roughly 50m fewer girls have been born since 1980 than you would naturally expect, according to The Economists calculations. In the worst year, 2000, there were around 1.7m more male births than there should have been. As recently as 2015, the number of excess male births was still above 1mwhich suggests that a similar number of unborn girls must have been done away with.

Yet this year, The Economist estimates, that figure will fall to about 200,000. The precipitous drop in the sex imbalance equates to roughly 7m girls saved since 2001 and counting. The global preference for sons has almost disappeared, and with it the hordes of missing girls (see chart).

The countries with the biggest skews in favour of boys in sex ratios at birth have seen a reversion towards the natural rate. In South Korea almost 116 boys were born for every 100 girls in 1990. The imbalance was even more pronounced in bigger families. Among third-born children, there were more than 200 boys for every 100 girls. Among fourth-born children, the ratio approached 250 boys for every 100 girls. Yet today South Korea has a near-even distribution between the sexes.

Critically, the desire for sons has also diminished rapidly in China and India, although the sex ratio at birth remains skewed in both countries. In China it has fallen from a peak of 117 for most of the 2000s to 111 in 2023. In India the rate was 107 that year, down from 109 in 2010.

Polling data bear out this shift. In many developing countries, to the extent that people express any preference about the sex of their children, they now seem to want a mix of boys and girls. Bangladeshi women who have not yet had children, for instance, report an almost identical desire for sons and daughters. Among those with one or two children, having a son increases the desire for daughters and having a daughter increases the desire for sons. Researchers have also observed a similar yen for balance in most of sub-Saharan Africa.

In the long run, the shrinking of the preference for boys should return those countries with the most skewed populations to something approaching a normal sex distribution. That means eventual deliverance from a host of social problems associated with a deficit of girls, from increased crime to human-trafficking of foreign bridesalthough it will take decades for the legacy of past bias to disappear.

In the rich world, in the meantime, evidence is growing of an emerging preference for girls. Between 1985 and 2003, the share of South Korean women who felt it necessary" to have a son plunged from 48% to 6%, according to South Koreas statistics agency. Nearly half now want daughters. Similarly in Japan, polls suggest a clear preference for girls. The Japanese National Fertility Survey, a poll conducted every five years, shows that in 1982, 48.5% of married couples wanting only one child said they would prefer a daughter. By 2002, 75% did. A similar swing existed for parents wanting two or three children.

In a handful of places, the overall birth statistics appear to reflect a preference for girls over boys. The sex ratio at birth is slightly lower than the norm in parts of the Caribbean and sub-Saharan Africa, for example. A few countries in those regions have ratios as low as 100 or 101. More than one in three households in the Caribbean is headed by a woman, and the share of Caribbean women who say they would rather have daughters is bigger than the proportion who prefer sons. In sub-Saharan Africa a mans traditional obligation to pay a hefty bride price" to the family of the woman he marries may have helped make girls more desirable.

But in most countries, any preference for girls expressed in polls is not strong enough to show in the overall sex ratio at birth. Most parents-to-be seem to balk at sex-selective abortions, in other words. Nonetheless a bias towards girls is visible in instances when it is easier to act on, such as when seeking children through adoption or fertility treatment. The time-honoured indicator of preferencewhether parents go on procreating depending on what sex their existing children aresuggests a hankering for girls.

Baby bummers

In America parents with only daughters were once more likely than parents with only sons to keep having children, presumably to try for a boy. That was the thesis set out in a study published in 2008 by Gordon Dahl of the University of California, San Diego, and Enrico Moretti at the University of California, Berkeley. The report, which analysed census data from 1960 to 2000, concluded that parents in America favoured sons.

That preference has since reversed, however. A study in 2017 led by Francine Blau, an economist at Cornell University, found that having a girl first is now associated with lower fertility rates in America. The research, which uses data from 2008 to 2013, suggested a preference for girls among married couples.

Other rich countries follow a similar pattern. A pro-girl bias has been detected throughout Scandinavia. In these countries, parents with one son and one daughter have fewer children; those with two sons have markedly higher birth rates than parents with two daughters. Finns whose first child is a girl tend to have slightly fewer children. Studies have also suggested a preference for girls in the Czech Republic, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Portugal.

Fertility treatment provides further evidence of a bias towards girls. At New York City IVF, a clinic in Midtown Manhattan, parents pay as much as $20,000 to select the sex of babies conceived through in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Wealthy families travel from countries like Britain, where the practice is banned. In the past, it was all about boys," says Alyaa Elassar, who leads the practice. But increasingly, parents opt for baby girls.

Adoptive parents, too, tend to want girls. Those in America were willing to pay as much as $16,000 to secure a daughter, according to a study published in 2010. In 2009 Abbie Goldberg of Clark University asked more than 200 American couples hoping to adopt whether they wanted a boy or a girl. Although many of them said they did not mind, heterosexual men and women and lesbians all leaned on average towards girls; only gay men preferred boys. In South Korea girls account for a clear majority of adoptions. Although the greater interest in adopting girls has no effect on sex ratios at birth at all, it gives a good indication of where parents preferences lie.

The reasons behind the growing preference for girls and the relative devaluation of boys are not at all clear. There could be many contributing factors. In Ms Goldbergs study, which sorted parents by their sexual orientation, different groups gave different reasons for their leanings. Heterosexual men, for example, felt girls would be easier to raise", more interesting" and complex" as well as less physically challenging" than boys. Lesbians were concerned about whether they would be able to socialise boys and so on.

In countries that used to suffer from a severe bias in favour of boys, the shift may simply reflect a desire to avoid the problems that have flowed from skewed sex ratios. In China, where men are so preponderant that many have ended up as unmarried, childless bare branches", parents may be seeking to avoid a lonely life for their children. It is also expensive to have boys, insofar as middle-class urban men are typically expected to own an apartment before they can get married. Parents of boys often complain about the ruinous expense of helping them buy homes.

Another possibility is that a preference for girls may not be a sign of emancipation but a reflection of enduring gender roles. The assumption that daughters will be more nurturing whereas sons will grow distant is ingrained even in the most egalitarian societies. In Denmark, Norway and Sweden, where women are relatively well represented both in business and in politics, couples nonetheless place greater importance on having at least one daughter than on having at least one son. Some sociologists posit that this is because daughters are much more likely than sons to provide care for elderly parents living alone.

Babes in the woods

The growing desire for daughters may also reflect the social ills that afflict men in much of the rich world. Men still dominate business and politics and earn more for the same work almost everywherebut they are also more likely to go off the rails. In many rich countries, teenage boys are more likely to be both perpetrators and victims of violent crimes. They also are more likely to commit suicide. Boys trail girls at all stages of education and are expelled from school at far higher rates. They are less likely than women to attend university. The gender gap at American universities is bigger today than in 1972, when laws prohibiting gender discrimination in education were enacted. But it is no longer women who are underrepresented.

Competitive parents may see girls as more likely to reflect well on them than boys. After all, boys develop fine motor skills later than girls. They are also worse at sitting still. Those are drawbacks in a world of toddlers music lessons and art classes. We no longer have trophy wives," says Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, which seeks to remedy male social problems. We have trophy kids."

The gender divide continues into adulthood. Whereas high-achieving young women move out of the family home, young men are less likely to leave. An example is Japan, with its staggering numbers of young recluses known as hikikomori, most of whom are men. Young men in America are also more likely to remain in their parents homes than girls. Around one in five American men aged 25-34 lives with his parents, compared with just over one in ten women of the same age.

A cultural reckoning with misogyny might also be a factor. In a book called BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity", Ruth Whippman observes that the world has recently been exposed to a torrent of news about poor male behaviour. The #MeToo movement revealed male predation first in Hollywood, and then in a series of other industries and countries. Men such as Harvey Weinstein, Jeffrey Epstein and Andrew Tate have all become household names after being charged with multiple counts of various forms of abuse of women (and in Epsteins case, girls).

More recently, the story of Gisele Pelicot, a Frenchwoman who was repeatedly drugged and raped by her husband and 50 other men, has stirred public indignation. Adolescence", a Netflix drama about a 13-year-old British boy who is arrested for murder, sparked a global conversation about misogynistic behaviour in boys. It is a fraught time to be raising boys, according to Ms Whippman. The list of fears is long, she writes in Boymom": Rapist, school-shooter, incel, man-child, interrupter, mansplainer, self-important stoner, emotional-labour abstainer, non-wiper of kitchen counters."

A telling sign of the general alarm about boys in the rich world is the interest politicians have begun taking in the subject. Last year Britains Parliament opened an investigation into male underachievement in schools. Norway has gone a step further, launching a Mens Equality Commission in 2022. Its final report in 2024 concluded that tackling challenges for boys and men would be the next step" in gender equality.

Legislators across Americas political spectrum are making similar noises. Utahs governor, Spencer Cox, a Republican, has created a task-force on male well-being; Marylands governor, Wes Moore, a Democrat, has committed to targeted solutions to uplift our men and boys"; Michigans governor, Gretchen Whitmer, a woman (and a Democrat), wants to get more young men into Michigans colleges and vocational courses.

It is important to keep the gloom about boys in the rich world in perspective. There is little evidence that a desire for daughters translates into behaviour that discriminates against boysor girls," says Lisa Eklund of Lund University in Sweden. With 100,000 sex-selective abortions of female fetuses still taking place in China each year, eradicating prejudice against girls should remain a priority.

But technology may soon alter the picture, just as cheap ultrasounds did 50 years ago. Given an easy way to act on their preference for girls, parents in the rich world might start doing so in greater numbers. New testing methods are allowing parents to learn the sex of their unborn child much earlier in its gestation. Some kits can be bought online or in shops, require just a few drops of blood from the mother and work from as little as six weeks. At that stage friends and family may not know that the mother is pregnant and therefore need not know if she ends the pregnancy.

IVF and other fertility treatments are also becoming cheaper, more effective and so more common. In America, where sex-selective IVF is legal, around a quarter of all IVF attempts now lead to live births, compared with 14% during the 1990s. Some 90% of couples who use a technique called sperm-sorting to select the sex of their child said they wanted a balance of sons and daughters. Even so, in practice 80% of them opted for girls. If that imbalance endures even as such methods spread, Americas sex ratios will soon start to skew.

And even if sex ratios at birth remain at the natural level, the preference for girls is still important. Just as sex-selective abortions in the developing world are a reflection of underlying disparities and prejudices, the incipient bias towards girls in the rich world presumably reveals something about how societies function. Relieving the social pressures that lead parents to prefer girls to boys would be a good idea, irrespective of the latest statistics on the sex ratio at birth.
The Trump administration is considering changes to how the federal government collects and reports jobs data, according to White House officials, following President Trumps decision to fire the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner earlier this month in the aftermath of weak employment numbers.

In a series of closed-door discussions in recent days, White House aides and Labor Department officials have weighed new options for data collection, as well as new technologies that could make the process more efficient. White House aides said one goal is to improve the response rates to BLS surveys.

Trump has complained publicly and privately that jobs report data is designed to hurt him politically, taking aim at large revisions to the numbers that have complicated his contention that the economy is soaring in his second term. Trump has told his advisers that he doesnt want large revisions to the data in the future, the officials said.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said on Tuesday that Trump was looking at means and methods" behind the jobs data.

Any changes to the reports, which are delivered on the first Friday morning of every month, could attract scrutiny that Trump is trying to game the numbers for political purposes. The president has long questioned data that he believes doesnt align with his worldview. He has also taken steps to assert more control over agencies that historically operate independently and weed out career officials he views as disloyal.

Trump fired BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer hours after the bureau reported a dramatic downward revision in the number of jobs created in May and June. In July, the economy gained 73,000 jobs, according to BLS, falling short of expectations. Trump said this week that he would nominate E.J. Antoni, a Trump supporter and BLS critic, to replace McEntarfer.

In an interview with Fox News Digital this week, Antoni said BLS should suspend issuing its monthly jobs reports until the process is corrected."

The BLS should suspend issuing the monthly job reports but keep publishing the more accurate, though less timely, quarterly data," he told Fox News. He added, Major decision makers from Wall Street to D.C. rely on these numbers, and a lack of confidence in the data has far-reaching consequences."

A White House official said Antoni conducted the interview earlier this week, before he knew he was going to be chosen as BLS commissioner, and his comments dont represent official BLS policy. Antoni, an economist for the Heritage Foundation and conservative radio personality, didnt respond to a request for comment.

Taylor Rogers, a White House spokeswoman, said Antoni will prioritize increasing survey response rates and modernizing data collection methods to improve the BLSs accuracy."

Former BLS commissioners said Trumps decision to fire McEntarfer creates a trust problem for the agency and would increase skepticism of any changes made there.

I think the firing of Erika has made this job even more difficult. You also have to restore trust in the bureaus product line, whether you agree with Mr. Trump or disagree with him, there is a trust issue now that is square on the table," said William Beach, who served as BLS commissioner during the first Trump presidency. It was poor staff work in the White House to not have informed the president that the commissioner doesnt control the numbers."

White House officials said they had concerns about jobs reports numbers for months before the firing of McEntarfer. But they didnt communicate those concerns to her, according to people familiar with the matter.

Stephen Moore, an outside adviser to Trump, said Antoni had been picked because the White House believes the process is not working." Moore said he expected the administration to focus on changing how the jobs report is conducted, instead of replacing employees at BLS. It is more about changing the procedures," he said.

But I think we need a monthly jobs report," he said, adding that he doesnt think putting it on hold would be a good idea.

Beach said the BLS employees were already deeply concerned about potential interference from the White House in the first term, but such interference didnt materialize. He said the firing was surprising to him, adding that he didnt believe any of the revisions were about politics.

The BLS reported a downward revision in the number of jobs created in May and June.

He said tinkering with the numbers for political purposes would undermine credibility on Wall Street and around the world. I think it would become a public issue very quickly," he said.

Those who have worked at BLS say there has been a longstanding process for collecting the data. Republicans and Democrats alike have suggested some potential changes that could improve the number of major revisions. In 2023, the BLS and Census Bureau started a multiyear project to update the household survey, hoping to add an online response option by 2027.

Erica Groshen, who led the BLS from 2013 to 2017, said the process for producing the jobs numbers has remained largely unchanged. There are two separate surveys: the household surveys, where about 60,000 households are interviewed monthly, and the surveys of about 120,000 American businesses, including many of the largest ones. Groshen said that depending on the month, various numbers of people responded to the survey.

Some of the businesses reported late, or didnt report at all, in certain months, but many of the countrys largest companies contributed monthly.

The data was then sent to the BLS for review, with industry experts poring over it before creating the tables that form the report. On Tuesday or Wednesday, the numbers were usually given to the commissioner for an early review. They were never changed by the commissioner," she said. A briefing was given on Thursday to the White House Council of Economic Advisers, and to the Labor Secretary on Friday morning before the release.

It was all amazingly transparent and well-documented, and it was done the same way every month," she said. I came to very much appreciate how it was done."

Groshen said there were discussions at times about changing how the reports were released, and she considered making the reports livelier" in their narrative format. The agency also considered surveying more frequently to secure better data. But there were never discussions, she said, about changing the formula for the monthly jobs report.

Beach said the agency was already working to modernize the surveys because theyve got a rapidly declining response rate, down below 70%." He agreed with Groshen that if data was collected more frequently from more businesses, there would be fewer large revisions.

But there were other things that cannot be controlled, they both said. In periods of economic stress, we do see response rates fall in medium and small businesses," he said.

Groshen said she would support some changes at the agency if they were done in a nonpartisan way.

There are many ways in which I expect the BLS wants to and will eventually change things," she said. They have not been able to do it because they havent been funded to do it."

Write to Josh Dawsey at Joshua.Dawsey@WSJ.com
SUMY, Ukraine  In the first year of Russias all-out invasion, Ukraines defenders repeatedly outmaneuvered a lumbering Russian army, relying on improvisation and the judgment of men in the field.

Three years on, Ukraines military has slipped back into a more rigid, top-down mode of fighting with roots in the Soviet era, creating mounting frustration about unnecessary casualties while hurting civilian morale and army recruitment. Without overhauls, the Soviet-style habits could undermine Ukraines ability to sustain its defense against Russia, which shows no sign of relenting in its quest to conquer the country.

Ukrainian officers and infantrymen complain of a centralized command culture that often punishes initiative and wastes mens lives. Generals order repetitive frontal assaults that have little hope of success, and deny requests from beleaguered units to carry out tactical retreats and save their men. Casualties accumulate on operations with little strategic value.

Our army is holding mainly thanks to the initiative of people up to the level of battalion commander," said Maj. Oleksiy Pasternak, a veteran officer who argues the higher echelons need urgent change.

It isnt holding everywhere. In recent days, small groups of Russian troops have pierced Ukrainian lines at a critical spot in the eastern Donetsk region, taking advantage of Ukraines infantry shortage. Kyiv is scrambling to stanch the advance.

Russias military suffers from far greater problems of an iron-fisted hierarchy that treats men as disposable. Its inefficiency helps explain why Russia has struggled to turn its advantages in numbers into a decisive breakthrough so far, instead inching forwards at great cost for the past two years.

But the issue is more critical for Ukraine, which cant replace its losses as easily as Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made that central to his strategy. Moscow is aiming to eventually force Ukraines capitulation by wearing out its army and outlasting its Western support.

A cease-fire remains a long shot, despite this Fridays summit in Alaska between Putin and President Trump, because Putin is demanding that Ukraine retreat from strategically vital territorya demand Kyiv and its European allies flatly reject.

A wounded Ukrainian soldier is transported at a stabilization point in the Donetsk region.

Final straw

Privately, many Ukrainian soldiers repeat a bitter refrain: Big Soviet army beats little Soviet army."

Capt. Oleksandr Shyrshyn, a battalion commander in Ukraines 47th Mechanized Brigade, took his frustrations public. In May he denounced the armys top brass on Facebook. Railing against stupid" orders and losses, he spoke of pervasive fear in the army of generals who are only capable of reprimands, investigations, imposing penalties." Addressing the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces, he said: I hope your children will also be in the infantry and will carry out your tasks."

He told the Journal he was driven to speak out after his battalion was repeatedly ordered by senior commanders to launch assaults that were unrealistic for the units limited means.

The final straw, said Shyrshyn, was an order for his men to go back into Kurska Russian region that Ukrainian forces had partly captured a year ago but ultimately had to withdraw from. The direction of the ordered attack was predictable and the Russians were prepared for it, he said. Wave after wave of Russian infantry counterattacks forced a retreat. Many men were killed, said Shyrshyn, including fresh, well-trained recruits, who are hard to come by. They were young and motivated. I had hopes for them. Instead we just lost them."

We need to change our methods from quantity to quality," Shyrshyn said. We cant beat Russia with our resources. They are biggerwe need to be better."

Capt. Oleksandr Shyrshyn, a battalion commander in Ukraines 47th Mechanized Brigade, has taken his frustrations public.

After the Facebook post, the army leadership reprimanded Shyrshyn for indiscipline. The militarys overall chief, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskiy, brushed him off as an attention-seeker. But many fellow soldiers supported his criticisms.

Syrskiys headquarters, the General Staff of the Ukrainian military, acknowledged some problems in a statement to the Journal but said improvements were being made, including an overhaul of training and the transition to a U.S.-style command approach that delegates more decisions. It said strict top-down control is sometimes needed when units arent performing, and that brigade commanders are replaced if theyre losing too many men.

A full-scale war has revealed both strengths and vulnerabilities at all levels," the General Staff statement said.

In a sign of a continuing clash of cultures, Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatiya 42-year-old seen as one of Ukraines most talented generals from a younger, post-Soviet generationresigned as head of ground forces in June.

Drapatiy said he was taking responsibility for a Russian missile strike on a training base that killed 12. But he also spoke of his struggle to change an institutional culture based on an atmosphere of fear, lack of initiative, closedness to feedback" and a deep gap between the headquarters and the units." He said he had kick-started reforms but more were needed.

Soviet tradition

Up and down the 750-mile front line, many Ukrainian troops tell stories similar to Shyrshyns. One common experience: senior commanders have on a number of occasions refused to authorize a timely tactical retreat, leaving men in danger of encirclement and destruction. Front-line officers say such refusals show a wasteful attitude to mens lives by senior ranks who dont want to take the blame for losing ground.

Late last year, Lt. Col. Serhiy Kostyshyn wanted to withdraw his battalion of Ukraines Presidential Brigade from a badly exposed position in the southern part of the Donetsk region. He had intercepted Russian plans to surround the battalion, but staff headquarters kept telling him to stay put, even as larger Russian forces were outflanking the unit, he said. So Kostyshyn made his own decision.

Lt. Col. Serhiy Kostyshyn, above, made his own decision last year to conduct a fighting withdrawal from a badly exposed position in the Donetsk region, despite being told to stay put.Members of the battalion commanded by Kostyshyn near the front line.

Over three rain-sodden days, he conducted a fighting withdrawal. Most of the battalion escaped from the trap, but a platoon that stayed behind to cover the retreat was nearly wiped out.

For months afterward, Kostyshyn was investigated by military police and the SBU, Ukraines counterespionage service, for abandoning a position. Eventually the interrogations petered out, he said.

If youre dumb and obedient, they leave you alone," Kostyshyn said. Its the Soviet tradition."

Kostyshyn later won a promotion to deputy brigade commander. Somebody high up probably saw the logic of my actions," he said.

The SBU declined to comment. The General Staff said initiative on the battlefield is encouraged so long as it doesnt violate orders or lead to the unauthorized abandonment of positions.

The tensions in the Ukrainian army reflect the countrys larger struggle to move away from its authoritarian past toward a more Westernized, democratic society. The countrys dramatic changes since independence in 1991 have often stemmed from spontaneous initiatives by its civil society, including two mass revolts against governments. But many of Ukraines institutions still bear the legacy of the Soviet past, including bureaucratic instincts of control.

Early in the war, soldiers headed into forests alongside veterans and civilians, armed with a mix of Western, Soviet-era and homemade weaponry. Their ingenuitysuch as pioneering the use of commercial drones to spot the advancing Russian columnsled to a series of successes in 2022. Defying expectations in both Moscow and Western capitals of a rapid Russian conquest, Ukraines defenders took back half of the territory that the invaders had captured.

The butcher

Soon, however, a more old-school command structure emerged. It made a controversial decision that had a lasting impact on morale: to defend the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine for nine months, feeding many experienced army brigades into a meat grinder. The battle for Bakhmut continued for long after it was clear that Ukrainian forces would have to withdraw from the shattered city, which they finally did in May 2023. It remains the deadliest battle of the war.

Wounded Ukrainian soldiers arrive at a field hospital on the Bakhmut front line, summer 2022.Ukrainian soldiers coming back from the front line at the eastern part of Bakhmut, December 2022.Ukrainian soldiers deployed at the front lines near Bakhmut, March 2023.

Gen. Syrskiy, then the head of ground forces, directed the grim attritional slugfest, earning him the nickname the butcher" from the rank and file. Bakhmut began a worrying pattern for Ukraines army: It was choosing battles its limited manpower couldnt afford, even though it was killing more Russians.

The 60-year-old Syrskiy, who became chief commander of the military in 2024, remains widely unpopular with Ukrainian soldiers, many of whom see him as the epitome of the Soviet syndrome: a Moscow-trained career officer who micromanages units on the ground, delaying retreats or ordering assaults that lead to morale-sapping casualties for tree lines or other objectives with little strategic value.

Gen. Oleksandr Syrskiy, right, on a visit to the front line in 2024.

The General Staff said preserving soldiers lives and health is a key priority for the militarys leadership. Syrskiy has been enacting measures since 2024 to save lives through better training, use of drone technology and learning from combat experience, the statement said.

But many Ukrainian officers say the problems run deeper than Syrskiy. Staff headquarters still include many officers who trained in a Soviet-style military many years before the war. Because of the rapid expansion of the army, many were pulled out of retirement and dont understand the fast-evolving, high-tech drone war on the ground, say veterans of the fighting since 2022.

Some officers say the situation is now improving as men with front-line experience rise to senior positions. The change is not gigantic, but its happening," said Lt. Col. Yehor Derevianko, who is commanding a battalion of the 93rd Mechanized Brigade, another battle-hardened unit fighting on the eastern front.

Shouting over the radio

For years before Russias full-scale invasion, countries from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization arranged training for Ukrainian officers to help modernize the countrys military.

In 2022, Pasternak attended a course in the U.K. to study NATO concepts such as mission command, an approach to warfare where senior commanders set a goal but subordinates on the ground figure out how best to achieve it. Its the antithesis of the top-down Soviet tradition.

Maj. Oleksiy Pasternak, who resigned in frustration earlier this year from the 108th Territorial Defense Brigade, photographed in June in Dnipro. He is now training with the new Third Army Corps, which operates with more independence.

Pasternak resigned earlier this year from the 108th Territorial Defense Brigade in frustration at commanders failure to follow the Western military methods.

The NATO doctrine of mission command is absent from the whole army, except maybe for a few brigades," he said. Theyre using the Soviet principles. They dont trust the people under them."

During Ukraines failed 2023 counteroffensive in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, generals from higher-level headquarters were shouting over the radio at brigade commanders, and even at sergeants on the battlefield, to attack again and again, even as units casualties were making them incapable of combat, Pasternak said.

He recalled a battle last year in which 14 Ukrainian infantrymen, supported by artillery and drone units in their rear, were defending buildings in the Zaporizhzhia region against attack by several hundred Russians with armor and drones. Senior commanders insisted that the position be held, he said.

Lt. Col. Yehor Derevianko, commander of a battalion of the 93rd Mechanized Brigade, in the basement where his unit has established a headquarters in the Donetsk region.Kostyantynivka railway station, destroyed by shelling and drones.

What they didnt realize was that another brigade had lost the area on their right flank, but hadnt told anyone. The Russians came in from the side and killed all 14 infantrymen, he said.

Fear of being sacked often leads to brigade commanders not reporting that theyve lost a position, said Pasternak and other officers.

Pasternak is now training with the new Third Army Corps, being built around an elite brigade thats known for breaking with Soviet traditions: It relies on nimble decision-making at lower levels and tries to preserve its men through rigorous training and constantly analyzing and refining tactics.

Meanwhile hes under investigation by his old unit for going AWOL.

Collecting firewood

Ukrainian forces have suffered around 400,000 total casualties, including up to 100,000 killed, according to a recent estimate by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. Russian total casualties are approaching one million, up to 250,000 of them killed, according to the CSIS estimate. But Russias total population is nearly four times bigger.

In a country where everyone has a friend or relative who is fighting, stories of conscripts thrown into the fray after barely any training are hampering Ukraines recruitment efforts. After the initial wave of patriotic enthusiasm in 2022, volunteers have become a trickle. Some soldiers say they warn friends against enlisting.

Comrades and relatives of Yuri Kazakov, an army sergeant killed in June, attend his funeral at a cemetery in Kharkiv.

One 50-year-old man from Kyiv said he volunteered for the army early this year and soon regretted it. Training consisted of collecting firewood. I didnt even see a gun." When he joined, he said he was promised a job as a driver in a drone unit, but he was sent to join the front-line infantry near Pokrovsk, another main target of Russias offensive. He drove back to Kyiv, joining tens of thousands of men who have gone AWOL or deserted.

Im happy to serve," he said. But I didnt want to head to the front with no knowledge, not even having fired a gun."

The General Staff said training has been improved since last year and all soldiers are taught basic skills including shooting.

Chaos in Kursk

For many soldiers, Kyivs incursion into Kursk was emblematic of how lingering Soviet habits are costing lives. The foray began well. Some of Ukraines best assault troops stormed over the border last summer, catching the Russians by surprise and seizing more than 400 square miles of territory. Ukraines government hoped the land could be a bargaining chip in peace negotiations. Carrying the fight to Russia was supposed to change the worlds perceptions and boost morale at home.

But Kursk soon turned into another attritional battle. Russia brought in reinforcements, including its best drone units and some 10,000 North Korean troops.

They started to cut off our logistics," said Shyrshyn, whose 47th Mechanized Brigade took part in the incursion. By winter we couldnt continue the operation effectively." He said he wrote reports describing the problems and proposing solutions, but commanders didnt want to make hard decisions. We needed to either change the situation on the battlefield, or withdraw. But we just waited, until everything started falling apart."

Fear of making decisions led to a growing paralysis. Two men from the 41st Mechanized Brigade said their unit spotted a group of Russian soldiers out in the open and asked a commander for a mortar strike. But he refused until he had permission from higher up.

A Ukrainian soldier wounded at the front is transported inside a stabilization point in the Donetsk region.Staff cares for a wounded Ukrainian soldier at the medical stabilization point in the Donetsk region.

If it doesnt work, Ill get blamed," the commander said. By the time he got approval, the Russians had disappeared. The commanders comment became a punchline among his men.

On another occasion, a corporal from the 41st said he and five other soldiers were hunkered down in a trench that was getting pummeled by Russian drones and artillery. Their overhead cover had been destroyed. They asked for permission to retreat a few hundred yards to another tree line.

Is the square holding?" a commander responded, referring to a colored square on the armys grid map. Since the answer, for the moment, was yes, he denied permission to withdraw.

Only after hours of artillery strikes were they allowed to retreat, carrying two men who couldnt walk.

On the map its green squareslooks tidy," the soldier said. But decisions need to be made based on whats happening on the ground."

When the Ukrainians finally retreated from Kursk, it was often desperate and chaotic. Units abandoned their vehicles. Men walked long distances on foot. The main road back to Ukraine, by now under intense Russian fire, was strewn with the smoldering corpses of Ukrainian soldiers and stricken vehicles with more dead servicemen inside, according to troops who retreated.

A member of the Bulava drone group of Ukraines Presidential Brigade leaves a bunker near the eastern front where his unit develops and builds drones.

Some platoon commanders who withdrew without permission to save their mens lives were investigated. Other men found themselves abandoned in Kursk without orders.

A drone operator with the 17th Tank Brigade, known by his call sign Barsik, said his team was encircled by Russians after earlier being told to stay in place. He and three other men managed to escape.

Barsik abandoned his brigade and joined the Da Vinci Wolves, a battalion fighting in the Donetsk region. The battalion, which relies on volunteers and private donations, has an unusual degree of independence and is known for taking care of its men. Other soldiers from the Da Vinci Wolves say theyre recruiting a growing number of men whove gone AWOL from their old units.

People were dying without understanding why. Commanders didnt care about the personnel," said Barsik.

Write to Marcus Walker at Marcus.Walker@wsj.com and Ian Lovett at ian.lovett@wsj.com
India's state-run oil refiners are looking to crank up oil purchases from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Iraq amid a standoff with the US over buying Russian oil, two people aware of the matter said.

India has traditionally relied on oil from West Asia, until Russia began offering steep discounts three years ago. Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Co., the oil champions of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are among West Asia's top crude oil producers and suppliers.

"Import of Russian oil will continue, but India is also looking at diversifying its imports, and higher supplies from West Asia are being looked at," one of the two people cited above said.

Queries sent to the Union petroleum ministry, Indian Oil Corp. Ltd, Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd and Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd remained unanswered.

Moscow calling

As European countries shunned Russian oil in the wake of the Ukraine war, India stepped into the breach, scooping it up at a steep discount. The discount has sharply narrowed now, and India's Russian oil imports have fallen as well. Currently, Russia caters to 36% of India's total oil imports, compared to 2.5% before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Also Read | Ukraine's Zelenskyy calls for limiting Russian oil purchases in talks with Modi

In FY25, Russia was India's top supplier with oil worth $50.28 billion exported to India, followed by Iraq ($27.35 billion), Saudi Arabia ($20 billion) and the UAE ($13.86 billion). In the first two months of FY26, Russia supplied oil worth $9.16 billion, followed by Iraq ($5.36 billion), Saudi Arabia ($3.26 billion), UAE ($2.8 billion) and US ($2.7 billion.

"Inquiries for West Asian oil have already increased of late," an industry executive said on condition of anonymity.

'Suited for W. Asia'

Indian refiners are better equipped to handle Russian Urals and West Asian crude, the executive said, adding there is higher scope for more West Asian oil to flowing into India, compared to lighter variants such as West Texas Intermediate of the US. Apart from state-run refiners, Reliance Industries Ltd and Nayara Energy are also among India's leading crude oil importers.

The person cited earlier said price may still be a concern for India. That is because West Asian suppliers do not generally offer discounts, and the final costwhich includes shipping, insurance and other costsmay be higher than the actual purchase price. Currently, the September contract of the benchmark Brent crude on the Intercontinental Exchange is trading at $66.64 per barrel.

Another industry participant said the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec), which is led by Saudi Arabia along with the UAE and other West Asian countries, has a spare capacity of 5 million barrels per day and would be easily able to cater to the additional demand from India, the world's third-largest energy importer.

New opportunity

"It may be an opportunity for India to reopen its oil requirements to suppliers across the globe. India does not necessarily need to look at only one or two options. Multiple countries may willingly compete to re-establish their supplies as a critical and ongoing share of India's crude basket, and it could also help India in terms of supply terms and/or pricinga potential win-win for all involved," said Gaurav Moda, partner and leader for energy at EY, Parthenon India.

Also Read | India can wean off Russian oil without heavy costs

India and the US are at loggerheads over the import of Russian oil. US President Donald Trump has imposed 25% tariffs on India for buying Russian energy, taking the total duty to 50%. The additional tariffs are aimed at choking Russia's oil revenues and forcing it to end the war in Ukraine. The new rate will take effect on 27 August.

India, however, has maintained that its imports are based on market factors along with the objective of ensuring energy security. In a statement on 6 August, the ministry of external affairs described the tariffs as unfair, unjustified and unreasonable".

Sanctions, curbs

On 2 August, Mint reported that India continues to buy oil from Russia notwithstanding the punishing penalty.

In 2022 and 2023, amid deep discounts being offered by Russia, Iraq also increased its supplies to India on the back of discounted oil.

India does not purchase oil from Iran and Venezuela, both of which face sanctions; however, there are no sanctions on Russian oil, and India continues to purchase it. However, the G7 nations have set a price cap of $60 per barrel on Russian oil. The European Union last month lowered the cap to about $47 per barrel from September. China and India are the top buyers of Russian oil.

Although the US and EU have raised concerns over India's oil purchases from Russia, India has maintained that its energy procurement would depend on its needs. India imports over 88% of its crude oil requirement, and has diversified its oil sources to nearly 40 countries in order to ensure energy security.
New Delhi: After rolling out public electric vehicle charging stations, India is now turning to green hydrogen fuel infrastructure along national highways.

As part of the governments energy security push, the ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) will start a 600 crore pilot project on 10 select highway stretches to test fuelling and repair facilities for hydrogen-powered vehicles, according to two officials aware of the development.

It will evaluate whether sufficient green hydrogen supply can be ensured for commercial vehicles while also setting standards for fuelling stations and storage systems. The trials, to be conducted in different regions, will assess not just technical and supply-chain feasibility but also geographical and logistical challenges before the programme is rolled out nationwide, the people said.

The ministry is in talks with state-run refiners Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corp (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) to develop hydrogen storage and fuelling stations along these stretches. The plan also includes incentives for steel and automobile manufacturers to develop prototypes of hydrogen vehicles and storage systems, said one of the officials, requesting anonymity.

Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland and Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles are expected to participate in the pilot, which will eventually be extended to all national highways, the second official said also requesting anonymity.

The entire plan is being included in the Vision 2047 mission of MoRTH, and its implementation is expected to be completed over the next two to three years so that hydrogen highways become a reality," said the second official.

Emails sent to the ministry, IOCL, HPCL, BPCL, Tata Motors Ltd, Ashok Leyland Ltd, and Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd on Tuesday remained unanswered till press time.

Also Read | India drafts first-ever green hydrogen electrolyser efficiency standards

Focus on hydrogen

The initiative aligns with Indias target of net-zero emissions by 2070 and follows the governments 19,744 crore National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce at least 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.

The governments focus on hydrogen can diversify Indias efforts to reduce carbon emissions on roads, which contribute to about 12% of the countrys total emissions.

This marks a positive first step toward diversifying green fuel options for transportation, preventing over-reliance on EVs. To make it truly effective, a clear master plan is needed to rapidly expand hydrogen infrastructure nationwide, as widespread access will be critical for the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles," said Kuljit Singh, partner and national infrastructure leader, EY India.

Hydrogen highways are seen as a potential solution for long-haul freight and heavy-duty vehicles, where EVs face range and charging limitations.

While green highways with EV infrastructure address the needs of passenger mobility and short-haul freight, hydrogen highways can cater to long-haul, heavy-duty commercial transport where battery limitations in range and charging times become bottlenecks. The proposed pilot projects will be critical in testing technical viability, cost economics, and safety protocols under Indian conditions before scaling up," said Jagannarayan Padmanabhan, senior director and global head of consulting, Crisil Intelligence.

The efforts to bolster adoption of electric and hydrogen vehicles by creating viable infrastructure need not be mutually exclusive at a time when consumers are increasingly choosing new vehicles based on powertrains instead of other features, said Padmanabhan.

This dual approach would give India flexibility as technology, costs, and energy sources evolve over the next decade," he said.

Tata Motors Ltd, the countrys largest commercial vehicle maker by sales, had said in a statement in March this year that it had started testing 16 hydrogen-powered trucks on Indian highways. These vehicles run on hydrogen internal combustion engines or hydrogen fuel cells.

Hydrogen is currently in limited public use. State-run NTPC Ltd deployed hydrogen buses in Leh in June after opening its first hydrogen fuel station in the region in November 2024.

In FY25, 16 new hydrogen fuel cell vehicles were registered in the country, according to MoRTHs Vahan registry, while only one unit was sold in the year.

Also Read | Indian Oil draws up green hydrogen fuel retail network plan

Hydrogen is made by separating the water molecule using electrolysis. Green hydrogen is produced in the same process when renewable energy sources, such as solar energy, are used for electrolysis.

The technology is still at a very nascent stage. "The economics of green hydrogen vis-a-vis other competing fuels are not cogent enough to drive a strong demand as a vehicular fuel as of now. Nevertheless, setting up of infrastructure would enable seeding the market," said Prashant Vasisht, senior vice president and co-group head, corporate ratings, Icra Ltd.
New Delhi: Raising concerns over illegal mining and loss of related revenue for states, a parliamentary panel has asked the Centre to write to state governments to complete field verifications of such activities.

The Indian Bureau of Mines generates alerts or preliminary triggers indicating potential illegal mining of major minerals and sends these reports to state governments for confirmation through field verifications, said the standing committee on coal, mines, and steel.

The bureau issued letters to all state governments in October 2022 to complete field verifications, and followed it up with a communication to the ministry of mines in September 2023 to advise state governments on this, the panel noted.

While the bureaus mine surveillance system generated 61 preliminary triggers for major minerals in 2022-23, state governments looked into 24 of those alerts and found unauthorized mining in seven cases, the panel said in its latest report on action taken by state governments.

In 2023-24, the surveillance system generated 138 triggers, of which 40 were checked by state governments and unauthorized mining was detected in seven cases, it added.

The committee, while appreciating the contribution of [the Indian Bureau of Mines] in detecting illegal mining and thereby plugging the leakages to the government revenues, had suggested that [the bureau] may request state governments to carry out field verification of all the triggers generated to detect and confirm the illegal mining, the panel said.

However, the ministry of mines did not take any action on the matter, the panel said, reiterating its recommendation that the ministry issue letters to all state governments to complete field verifications to curb illegal mining.

Illegal mining has caused significant revenue loss for states.

According to a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), illegal mineral excavation spread over 268.91 hectares across 11 districts of Uttar Pradesh between 2017 and 2022 caused a revenue loss of 408.68 crore.
Top recruitment and staffing firms are grappling with an unusual wave of senior executive departures, as rivals poach top talent from each other to navigate a rapidly evolving market.

Major players like TeamLease, Adecco and Manpower Group are locked in a talent war over the past year, as the industry expands to meet the growing demand for gig, temporary, and permanent workers.

Leaders who have grown within it often find it easier to navigate, while those coming from outside sometimes struggle to settle in. Add to that the fact that our business model is shifting rapidlymore specialization, more tech, more AI-led transformationand it is natural for companies to bring in leaders with new skills and perspectives," said Manu Saigal, country manager of recruitment firm Hays.

Saigal joined UK-based Hays in June this year, and was with Adecco, one of India's largest staffing firms, for a decade. Her last position at Adecco was that of a director.

Also Read | Skills mismatch, migration to metros hurting recruitments in small cities

The recruitment sector can be divided broadly into three categories. The staffing industry conducts mass hiring, and its employees work out of client sites. Then there is permanent hiring which can be done by the staffing industry, which places candidates on clients' payrolls . Finally, executive search firms have a team of headhunters, recruiting CXOs.

While search firms are hiring top executives from consulting companies and the Big Four (KPMG, Deloitte, EY and PwC) for better access to the kind of talent pool that clients want, the staffing and recruitment industry is gunning for its rivals.

The recruitment industry is going through a choppy phase as the economy is on a yo-yo. The advent of AI impacting hiring numbers, global wars and poor visibility of the demand and supplies has made hiring tougher. For many senior recruiters who now hold the top positions in these companies, they need to get someone who understands the crests and troughs well.

In February, Ramesh Alluri Reddy, chief executive officer (CEO) of degree apprenticeship businesses at Teamlease, joined American staffing and recruitment firm Allegis Group as India managing director (MD). Kartik Narayan, CEO for staffing at TeamLease Services has stepped down as well, after working with the recruitment firm for three years. In fact , Sunil Chemmankotil, now country manager of Adecco, also came from TeamLease Digital, one of the businesses of the staffing firm and joined rival-Adecco in April 2024.

Also Read | TCS offers vendor bonus to speed up quality hiring

It could be a function of new challenges, new roles, larger roles, compensation, working for an MNC, new industry and so on. I think each of the exits we had could be attributed to a different personal reason, and while we would have liked to keep the people, we respect their decision to move and continue to keep in touch," said Ashok Reddy, MD, TeamLease Services.

While the company makes efforts to prevent exits and builds a second rung of leaders to ensure business continuity, some may not have worked out, Reddy said.

While we have tried to work on compensation plans that have an annual incentive component, long-term incentive plans and employee stock appreciation rights alongside the capability building for the leaders, we do acknowledge that it didnt work for some leaders as a retention tool."

Adecco and ManpowerGroup did not respond to Mint's queries sent on Tuesday. Mails sent to Kartik Narayan, Ramesh Alluri Reddy, Alok Kumar and Sunil Chemmankotil remained unanswered.

According to one of the CXOs who has joined a rival firm, these shifts also come at a time when the recruitment sector is coming of age in India.

Also Read | Recruiters hunt for jobs as hiring boom fizzles

12-13 million youth are expected to join the workforce every year, and the employment will not be taken care of only by the government. The private sector is working on different formats to get more employees on board, and this is why the recruitment industry will play an integral role in getting the candidate," said the CXO who joined a rival recruitment firm for better growth prospects. The different formats here include mandates for gig, temporary staffing, blue-collar and permanent jobs.

Manpower Group India's former president and country head Alok Kumar joined National Skill Development Corp. International Ltd as CEO in November 2024, after working with the recruitment firm for six years.
Manufacturers looking to export connected cars, GPS trackers, and other smart gadgets have a crucial requirementforeign SIM cards. Without these chips, making products export-ready isnt easy.

Telecom operators have written to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) seeking a dedicated licence with at least a 10-year validity for importing foreign SIM or embedded SIM cards for testing and installing in products meant for exports.

They have also asked that only companies holding a unified telecom licencesuch as licensed telecom operators and registered machine-to-machine (M2M) service providersbe allowed this import licence.

A dedicated policy on importing SIM cards for use in devices would not only create an additional revenue stream for telecom operators but also open up significant export potential for manufacturers in several sectors.

Currently, according to a government official, companies are not allowed to import foreign SIM cards for use in devices. Existing rules only allow companies to sell or rent international roaming SIM cards or global calling cards to individuals in India after obtaining a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the government.

Also Read | Draft telecom policy proposes incentives for using made-in-India gear

The reason why foreign SIM cards are not allowed to be imported and used in devices even for exports is due to security concerns and fraud prevention, as often these are difficult to trace," the official said, declining to be identified.

Typically, SIM cards are installed in M2M and internet-of-things (IoT) devices during the manufacturing process. In absence of foreign SIM cards, manufacturers have to either assemble the devices overseas and embed the SIM cards there or use Indian SIM cards in those devices on roaming, which would add to costs.

Machine-to-machine devices can collect and exchange data with other smart devices or systems without human intervention, while IoT devices are part of a network of interconnected devices.

We suggest that a new service authorisation should be introduced for the sale of foreign telecom service providers SIMs/eSIM cards in India for the use in M2M/IoT devices meant for export purposes," Kavita Nair, senior director, CII Digital (IT-ITeS, AI, Telecom, Digital Transformation), at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), told Trai in a submission dated 1 August.

A call from DoT

The demand from CII, which has over 9,000 companies as its members, was in response to a consultation paper from Trai on whether Indias telecom rules need to evolve to support this export-oriented use case.

Trai issued its consultation paper in July after the department of telecommunications (DoT) asked it to frame rules for issuing or renewing no-objection certificates for importing foreign SIM cards.

M2M technology is creating significant opportunities and has a proven potential of revolutionizing the performance of various verticals of different sectors, businesses, and services, by providing automation and intelligence to the end devices," DoT told Trai in a communication in September.

The telecom department said manufacturers were seeking foreign SIMs for integration into products meant for use outside India. However, DoT said it would be difficult to fit this use case under the existing NOC policy, and sought Trais recommendation.

Also Read | Telecom testing just got cheaper as govt slashes certification fees by up to 95%

DoT should coordinate with the Ministry of Finance to lay down a clear framework allowing import of foreign TSP (telecom service provider) SIM/eSIM profiles only as well as SIM profiles along with SIM hardwarefor use in M2M/IoT devices meant for export," Rahul Vatts, chief regulatory officer at Bharti Airtel Ltd, said in a submission to Trai on 1 August.

Airtel also sought a framework allowing Indian telecom operators to export their SIM cards for use in M2M devices meant for importing to India. The operator added that the government should allow the import and export of M2M and IoT devices with SIM or eSIM cards soldered and embedded in them.

Reliance Jio echoed Airtel's views while focusing on the testing aspect.

As the SIMs will be used in varied devices like motor vehicles, wearables, smart meters, connected cameras, GPS trackers, smart car devices, remote sensors, asset trackers, etc., the testing and assembly requirements will be equally varied. Accordingly, we submit that sufficient time for testing would be required for these devices," Reliance Jio told Trai in a letter dated 1 August.

Light-touch regulation

Telecom operators suggested that foreign SIMs be allowed to remain active in India for a maximum of six months for testing purposes only. However, they dont want the government to impose any authorisation fee for the sale of foreign SIM cards for use in smart devices meant for exports.

There should not be any requirement for monthly reports to DoT or security agencies," S.P. Kochhar, director general of the Cellular Operators Association of India, said in a letter to Trai.

The authorized entities should be required to submit an annual return of number of foreign SIMs issued for export to OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) or M2MSPs (machine-to-machine service providers) along with the name and details of the entity to whom such SIMs have been issued," he added.

Also Read | India's police network upgrade draws the big guns

Vodafone Idea pointed to the possibility of automakers using imported SIM cards for their connected cars.

Automotive OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors, are launching connected cars with live-tracking, remote diagnostics, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. These features require constant and reliable cellular connectivity, hence, it becomes necessary for these vehicles to connect with the SIMs/eSIMs," Vodafone Idea said in its submission to Trai.

Enabling foreign profiles support to the SIM/eSIM being integrated in the vehicles being domestically manufactured for exports is vital for scalability, competitiveness and alignment with global best practices," it added.
The Mexican government has handed another 26 criminals linked to drug trafficking over to Washington, including members of the Sinaloa Cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and Los Zetas. The handover  a kind of atypical extradition, as it is not formally such  is the second that Claudia Sheinbaums government has granted to its northern neighbor, after delivering another 29 drug lords in February, including Rafael Caro Quintero, who had been sought by the U.S. justice system for decades. As before, the handover of these 26 cartel members was carried out with the utmost discretion and, once again, it came amid heightened tensions between the two countries and days after it was revealed that Donald Trump had ordered the U.S. military to combat foreign cartels.

Mexican authorities have emphasized that the handover of the 26 drug traffickers was carried out in accordance with the National Security Law and following the United States commitment not to seek the death penalty for them, something that the 29 criminals handed over in February also escaped. The names of the prisoners handed over to the Trump administration were released by the U.S. Department of Justice, in contrast to the Mexican authorities, who remained silent about the identity of the drug lords pending a press conference scheduled for Wednesday. The list includes Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, El Cuini, right-hand man and brother-in-law of the founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho. Also included is Servando Gomez, La Tuta, who was the leader of the once powerful Knights Templar cartel, as well as Juan Carlos Felix Gastelum, El Chavo Felix, son-in-law of Ismael El Mayo Zambada, the founder of the Sinaloa Cartel who is also in Washingtons custody.

The Mexican Attorney Generals Office and the Secretariat of Security stated in a press release that the drug lords, who were being held in various prisons, had extradition orders against them and posed a permanent threat to public safety. In February, the Mexican government handed over the previous 29 drug traffickers to the U.S. through an ingenious legal framework that allowed it to circumvent the complicated extradition process. That maneuver set a precedent. Everything points to the fact that this time the scheme has been replicated, just days after Mexico and Washington reached an agreement to ease Trumps tariff war. In addition, a week ago it was revealed that Trump has ordered the Pentagon to use the military to enforce the law against foreign drug cartels. The order allows direct military operations to be carried out on foreign territory, and in the corresponding territorial waters, against these organized criminal groups. Since then, Claudia Sheinbaum has tried to emphasize that the United States will not operate on Mexican soil.

The Sheinbaum administration has stated that the individuals sent to the United States were wanted for their links to criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and other crimes. The U.S. embassy, for its part, added that the drug lords face serious criminal charges in U.S. federal courts, including drug trafficking, organized crime, money laundering, and violent crimes. The Mexican authorities have specified that the U.S. Department of Justice has agreed not to seek the death penalty for the prisoners in its country, in line with the shift in Trumps hardline policy against Mexican drug traffickers, whom his administration has shown leniency toward in order to pressure them into accepting plea bargains.

The Mexican agencies explained that the custody, transfer, and formal handover of the drug lords was carried out in accordance with the Constitution and the National Security Law, and at the express request of the U.S. Department of Justice, the same legal argument on which the February operation was based. The heads of the Attorney Generals Office and the Secretariat of Security, Alejandro Gertz and Omar Garcia Harfuch, will hold a press conference on August 13 to report on this new operation.

Legendary and infamous drug lords such as Rafael Caro Quintero, leader of the Guadalajara Cartel and murderer of DEA agent Enrique Kiki Camarena; the former leaders of the Los Zetas cartel, Miguel Angel and Omar Trevino Morales, known as Z-40 and Z-42, and Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, Tony Montana, the CJNGs chief financial operator and El Menchos brother, were among the drug traffickers sent to Washington last February. At the time, the Mexican government became entangled in explaining the legal basis for the operation. There was talk of transfer, expulsion, extradition, and shipment.

The truth is that it was not a typical extradition, that is, one carried out in accordance with the law. Many of the drug lords had managed to bribe judges to delay their appearance before U.S. courts for years, and this reality led Mexican authorities to seek an alternative. After that unprecedented operation, Prosecutor Gertz explained that it had been carried out based on the National Security Law and the constitutional article that empowers the head of the executive branch, Claudia Sheinbaum, to preserve it.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has emphasized that this new transfer of criminals represents another significant milestone in the collaboration between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement agencies, as well as in the alliance between Presidents Trump and Sheinbaum. We are deeply grateful to President Sheinbaum and her administration for demonstrating determination in the fight against organized crime, said Ambassador Ronald Johnson. This transfer is yet another example of what is possible when two governments unite against violence and impunity, he added.

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When the Berkshire Hathaway CEO reached that age in August 1995, the value of his Berkshire stock was about $12 billion. He held about 475,000 of what are now Class A shares, trading for $25,000 each at the time. Since then, he has created almost 95% of his current wealth and the stock price is up nearly 30-fold.

Buffett turns 95 on Aug. 30. The current value of his Berkshire stake some 198,117 Class A shares is now around $140 billion with the stock changing hands at about $706,000. The Berkshire stock represents more than 99% of his net worth.

That increase in wealth, from $12 billion to $140 billion, means Buffetts wealth has swelled more than tenfold since he turned 65. The figure is even greater including the CEOs significant gifts to charity.

Since Buffett began his charitable giving in 2006, he has given away $60 billion of Berkshire stock. The money has gone to five foundations, mainly the Gates Foundation, as well as four Buffett family philanthropies. If Buffett hadnt given away any stock, his wealth would be more than $300 billion, Barrons estimates.

In addition to the money, the CEO also has gotten the enjoyment and satisfaction of leading Berkshire for another 30 years. Buffett loves his job, saying in the past that he tap dances" to work and would pay to do it.

While Buffett didnt start Berkshire, he acts like founders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, who run their companies as CEOs and view them as their babies. Berkshire is generally not far from Buffetts mind even when he isnt on the job. He once remarked that hes always on the clock" for the company.

Its hard to know what would have happened if Buffett had retired at 65, but Berkshire likely wouldnt be as large and as profitable a company as it is now.

In 1995, Berkshire amounted to a relatively small group of operating companies attached to a large equity portfolio that included stocks such as Coca-Cola and American Express. Now, it is the worlds most valuable conglomerate with a market capitalization of $1 trillion and $45 billion of annual after-tax operating income. Since 1995, Buffett has added vital Berkshire businesses like Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Berkshire Hathaway Energy.

Few are as fortunate as Buffett to remain in good health until 95 and be able to work so long. There is no precedent for someone running such a large company at such an advanced age.

Buffett has made the most of his senior years in a way that suited him. He has enriched millions of shareholders in the process and added dramatically to his own wealth.

That should help the country since he has charged his children with giving away about 99% of his fortune over the decade or so following his death. It promises to be one of the largest charitable giving campaigns ever.

Buffett intends to step down as CEO at year-end while remaining chairman. Berkshire executive Greg Abel plans to take the top job at the start of 2026.

Write to Andrew Bary at andrew.bary@barrons.com
Global oil markets are poised for a larger surplus than previously expected this year, with supply set to grow more than three times faster than demand, the International Energy Agency said in its closely watched monthly report.

The Paris-based organization now forecasts oil supply growth of 2.5 million barrels a day this year and 1.9 million the next, from earlier estimates of 2.1 million and 1.3 million barrels a day, respectively. The revision follows OPEC+s latest bumper output hike, though countries outside of the alliance remain the primary drivers of growth.

Supply was largely steady in July, as declines in OPEC+ output were offset by increased production from non-OPEC+ producers. Saudi Arabias output fell from Junes highs, when several Gulf producers boosted exports over fears of supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The IEA raised its estimates for OPEC+ supply growth by 370,000 barrels a day for this year and by 520,000 barrels a day for the next, reflecting a faster-than-anticipated unwinding of voluntary cuts.

The alliance recently agreed to another super-sized hike for September in a push for market share, fueling concerns about a supply glut in the coming months. However, despite the unwinding of nearly 1.4 million barrels a day of cuts on paper from April to July, the IEA said only 640,000 barrels a day of additional crude production actually hit the market.

The supply growth forecast for non-OPEC+ producers was trimmed by 10,000 barrels a day to 1.3 million this year, but raised to 1 million barrels a day from 940,000 previously for next year, largely due to higher U.S. output.

Wednesdays report comes as Brent crude trades around $66 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate is at $63 a barrel, as investors await President Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the war in Ukraine.

Oil prices have been caught in the crosshairs of fast-changing market dynamics," the IEA said. While new sanctions on Russia and Iran threaten to impact trade flows, weaker economic growth is poised to temper demand."

Iranian oil supply rebounded from the low levels seen in June following the 12-day conflict with Israel, and U.S. pressure has yet to significantly dent exports, according to the agency.

Russian crude supplies remained broadly steady in July, though announced and threatened sanctions could curb output and revenue later this year. The IEA expects Russian production to align with its OPEC+ target, averaging just under 9.4 million barrels a day for the remainder of the year.

Meanwhile, global oil demand growth is expected to slow further, largely due to a weaker macroeconomic outlook. The slump is particularly evident in China, India, and Brazil, after June and July data came in weaker than expected, according to the agency.

The latest data show lackluster demand across the major economies and, with consumer confidence still depressed, a sharp rebound appears remote," it said.

Demand is forecast to grow by 685,000 barrels a day this year and by 699,000 barrels a day the next, from previous estimates of 704,000 and 722,000 barrels a day, respectively. The IEAs projections are well below OPECs.

Global oil inventories climbed for the fifth consecutive month in June, hitting a 46-month high of 7.8 million barrels. The increase was fueled by growing volumes of oil at sea, and rising stockpiles of both Chinese crude and U.S. gas liquids, the IEA said.

Write to Giulia Petroni at giulia.petroni@wsj.com
BlueStone Jewellery IPO: The initial public offering (IPO) of BlueStone Jewellery finally sailed through for subscription on Wednesday, August 13, led by strong buying action from qualified institutional buyers (QIBs). By the closure of the issue, the non-institutional investor (NII) portion was not fully subscribed.

At the end of the second day, the BlueStone Jewellery IPO was booked 0.66 times.

BlueStone Jewellery IPO Subscription Status BlueStone Jewellery IPO was subscribed 2.70 times at the end of the third day of the bidding process. The issue received 4,46,20,386 bids as against 1,65,14,421 shares on offer.

The retail portion was subscribed 1.35 times, the NII portion 0.55 times and the QIB segment 4.28 times.

BlueStone Jewellery IPO GMP BlueStone Jewellery IPO grey market premium (GMP) has seen a steady decline over the last few sessions. BlueStone Jewellery IPO GMP today stood at 2. At one point, BlueStone Jewellery IPO GMP was 36.

At the prevailing GMP and issue price, BlueStone Jewellery IPO listing price could be 519, just 0.39% premium.

Also Read | Medistep Healthcare IPO allotment to be out soon: Steps to check status online

BlueStone Jewellery IPO Details The 1540 crore BlueStone Jewellery IPO was a combination of a fresh issue of RS 820 crore and an offer for sale of 720 crore. BlueStone Jewellery IPO had opened for subscription on August 11, with the allotment date now set as August 14.

BlueStone Jewellery IPO was priced in the range of 492 to 517 per share. The company plans to use the funds raised for funding working capital needs and general corporate purposes.

Investors could apply for the BlueStone Jewellery IPO in lots of 29 shares.

The company offers contemporary lifestyle diamond, gold, platinum and studded jewellery under the flagship brand, BlueStone. The company is an omnichannel jewellery brand and retails its products through its website.

The BlueStone brand was launched in 2011 and as of March 31, 2025, it operates 275 stores in 117 cities, including Franchise Stores, across 26 States and Union Territories in India.

The company focuses on designing jewellery for women, men and couples between the ages of 25 to 45 years who have a tendency to discover brands through social media or online channels.
Hindalco Industries Ltds shares rose nearly 5% on Wednesday, following its June quarter (Q1FY26) results, in which consolidated Ebitda grew 6% year-on-year to 8,075 crore. The trend seen in recent quarters persisted: India's business stole the show, but wholly-owned US subsidiary Novelis Inc. remained under pressure.

India operations' Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) grew a solid 29% on-year to 4,750 crore. Domestic business comprises aluminium upstream, aluminium downstream, and copper.

On the other hand, Novelis Ebitda fell by 17% to $416 million, weighed down by higher aluminium scrap prices and the adverse impact of US import tariffs. Ebitda per tonne fell 18% to $432, and there could be more pain in store as the tariff impact has not played out fully.

Tariff impact

The management expects a cost hit of $60 million per quarter, assuming the existing 50% tariff on aluminium imports in the US stays. Note that sales of some of its key segments, such as automotives and speciality shipments, were also impacted as buyers waited for stability in the tariff structure. In this backdrop, Nuvama Institutional Equities has trimmed its FY26 estimated Ebitda by 3% due to lower profits at Novelis, led by higher tariffs, partially offset by higher profits at Indian operations.

Hindalco sees Noveliss profitability improving in H2FY26, aided by projected cost savings of $100 million annually by FY26-end, up from $75 million projected earlier. A higher contract price for its key segment, beverage cans, which form almost 60% of volumes, should also aid profitability. In the medium term, ongoing capacity expansion at Bay Minette, expected to get commissioned in H2CY26, would help lower its imports to the US and mitigate the tariff impact.

In Q1FY26, higher realizations helped Hindalco report 13% growth in consolidated revenue to 64,200 crore. Volume grew by just 1%. Global aluminium prices were firm, with China seeing some deficit in supplies versus a balance in Q4FY25. Aluminium upstream Ebitda grew by 17%, contributing over 80% of Q1 domestic Ebitda, aided by higher realizations and lower cost of production (CoP), the lowest in the past 15 quarters. However, CoP is expected to rise in Q2 due to the higher cost of coal.

Also Read | Four fast-growing smallcap companies to keep on your watchlist

The aluminium downstream business is seeing a structural shift with Hindalco moving up the value chain, and more than doubled its Ebitda in Q1. Copper business Ebitda fell 16% due to lower processing spreads, but the ongoing commissioning of the facility for higher value-added products should boost earnings. The expansion project based on scrap and e-waste, expected to come online by December 2026, would generate an Ebitda margin of 2-3X of the conventional process.

Capex boost

Medium-term expansion plans domestic and abroad are on track, funded by strong domestic cash flow. Consolidated net debt-to-Ebitda fell marginally to 1.02X, from 1.06X in Q4, despite increase in Novelis net debt. Yet, with significant capital expenditure (capex) planned over the next two years, leverage is worth tracking. Nuvama forecasts Hindalcos net debt to increase to 45,300 crore by FY27-end, taking net debt-to-Ebitda to 1.3X.

Hindalcos stock is up about 12% in 2025 so far backed by strong domestic performance, and trades at an enterprise value of 6.2X FY26 estimated Ebitda, shows Bloomberg. Improving Novelis performance is critical for a re-rating of the stock, but that may not happen in a hurry given the macro uncertainties around tariffs. As per Kotak Institutional Equities analysts, the Hindalco stock lacks substantial near-term triggers, with volume growth to kick in largely from FY28.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India on Wednesday proposed a comprehensive rewrite of its 30-year-old Stock Brokers Regulations to simplify compliance and align the rules with todays tech-driven markets. The capital markets regulator has invited public comments until 3 September.

The draft regulation, meant to replace the 1992 framework, consolidates years of circulars into the main regulations and harmonizes provisions with newer laws like the Companies Act, 2013.

The 1992 regulations were built for a market of physical paperwork, slower settlements, and fewer retail participants. Sebis working group recommended a clearer, streamlined framework that reflects electronic trading, rapid settlement cycles and the scale of modern retail investing.

Also Read | Sebi mulls framework to boost resident Indians participation in FPIs

This proposal is in line with the Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandeys emphasis on optimizing regulations. The Association of National Exchanges Members of India (ANMI) informed Mint that it is reviewing the proposals and will send in its comments to Sebi in due course of time.

In its paper, Sebi has introduced formal definitions for key participants and practices, such as algorithmic trading, execution-only platforms for direct mutual fund transactions and proprietary trading, to keep the rules technology-neutral.

Compliance in the digital era The consultation paper states that record-keeping can be done in electronic form across the board, acknowledging the end of physical share delivery and easing archival burdens.

It suggested that stock brokers can route key intimations and filings through exchanges and outdated registers tied to broker-to-broker dealings within the same exchange will be eliminated.

The index and forms of the regulations have also been cleaned up to remove the defunct sub-broker category and duplicative disclosures, with the fit and proper declarations folded into application forms.

Tighter guardrails Sebi has proposed that brokerages that are structured as companies must have at least one designated director resident in India for 182 days in a financial year to anchor accountability. Additionally, material changes in information provided at registration would need prompt intimation through the stock exchanges where the broker is a member.

To be clear, Sebi proposed that any change in control of a brokerage will require prior Board approval, routed through one of the stock exchanges where the broker is a member.

Legal experts who represent brokers said this framework centralizes the approval process, reduces procedural ambiguity and strengthens regulatory supervision over broker governance.

This centralized approval framework enhances supervisory clarity and investor protection by tightening governance around ownership transitions, said Ketan Mukhija, senior partner at Burgeon Law.

Others said that informing about change of control to the Board and exchanges is an important change, as the information will protect the clients of the broking companies. The intent is to align the procedure, rules and regulations for a transparent environment. Information regarding any material change from information already submitted at the time of registration will have to be submitted to the Board as well, said Nirali Mehta, partner at Mindspright Legal.

Also Read | Sebi moots easing of related party transaction norms

The draft codifies core duties that had been set out through circulars. Those include strict segregation and upstreaming of client funds and collateral, robust KYC and order evidence, confidentiality of client data, and participation in Sebis Online Dispute Resolution platform, among others.

Higher bar for big brokers Sebi has specified that the Qualified Stock Broker (QSB) tag will be assigned using five measurable parameters: active clients, client assets, trading volumes, end-of-day client margin obligations, and proprietary volumes.

The regulator has proposed dropping qualitative scores on compliance and grievance redressal as entry criteria.

Along with the regulator, the exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories would now have explicit powers to conduct inspections, including joint inspections to avoid duplication.

Sebi also proposed a calibrated power to relax strict enforcement in limited circumstances, such as technical or procedural hardship, sector irrelevance, or broader factors beyond a class of persons control, subject to reasoned orders.
BPCL Q1 Results: Maharatna public sector undertaking (PSU)  Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)  posted a nearly threefold jump in its net profit for the first quarter of the financial year 2025-26 (FY26) on Wednesday, August 13.

BPCL's consolidated net profit for the April-June quarter stood at 6,839.02 crore, up 140.67% year-on-year, compared with 2,841.55 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

The consolidated revenue from operations came in at 1,29,614.69 crore in Q1 FY26, as against 1,28,106.39 crore in the same period last year, recording a growth of just 1% YoY.

Meanwhile, the overall expenses saw a 2% YoY decline to 1,22,583.43 crore during the quarter under review.

On the operating front, too, BPCL's performance was strong as consolidated earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) witnessed a sharp 68% YoY jump to 10,427.66 crore during the quarter ended June 2025.

The operating margin soared to 6.32% in Q1 FY26 compared with 2.68% in the same period last year and 4.09% in the last quarter.

Also Read | Reliance Infra share price hits lower circuit despite favourable verdict

BPCL Share Price Trend Ahead of the Q1 results announcement, BPCL share price closed 0.25% lower at 322.80 apiece.

However, the Maharatna PSU stock has soared 26% in the last six months, and added 9% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. Over a longer time frame of five years, BPCL stock has delivered 53% returns to investors.

The Cabinet on Friday approved 30,000 crore LPG subsidy to state-run oil companies  Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), BPCL and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL)  to compensate for losses incurred from selling LPG at below cost over the past 15 months.

The compensation to oil marketing companies (OMCs) will be paid in 12 tranches, as per an official statement.
By Khushi Malhotra

MUMBAI, Aug 13 (Reuters) - Indian government bond yields are likely to open steady on Wednesday, with the benchmark 10-year yield seen testing the key 6.50% mark amid a sour mood, following a sharp selloff fuelled by rising fiscal pressure and higher debt-supply concerns.

The benchmark 10-year bond yield will likely trade between 6.45% to 6.52%, a trader at a primary dealership said. It closed at 6.4920% on Tuesday, highest since April 3.

The yield will test a key technical level of 6.50% during the day, traders said, adding that if breached, the yields could climb further.

India's net direct tax collections dropped 4% year-on-year to 6.64 trillion rupees ($75.82 billion) from April 1-August 11, stoking fears that New Delhi may borrow more to fund a fiscal stimulus as U.S. tariffs threaten growth.

"There seems to be a supply-demand mismatch playing out, and a possibility of fiscal slippage, so there are few takers in the market," a trader at an AMC said.

Traders are now awaiting clarity from the Reserve Bank of India on whether it is comfortable with the current yield levels.

Meanwhile, New Delhi will raise 210 billion rupees through the sale of 91-day, 182-day and 364-day T-bills later in the day.

The demand for Treasury bills will be tested during the day, traders warned.

RATES

India's overnight index swap (OIS) rates are expected to open little changed, while there will likely be some receiving bias as some traders are pricing in a rate cut due to mounting growth concerns amid tariffs.

The one-year OIS rate ended at 5.51% on Tuesday and the two-year OIS rate was at 5.455%. The liquid five-year OIS rate settled at 5.6725%.

KEY INDICATORS:

** Benchmark Brent crude futures were at $66.05 per barrel, little change compared to Tuesday

** Ten-year U.S. Treasury yield was at 4.2907%; two-year yield at 3.7371%
Domestic tech stocks have emerged as the worst performers in 2025 so far, with persistent selling across the board leading to a sharp erosion in value and pushing them to multi-month lows. Lackluster earnings, tariff concerns, and a weak demand outlook have dampened investor sentiment toward the sector, triggering a rapid exodus from these stocks.

As a result, the Nifty IT index has crashed 20% year to date. If the pressure on tech stocks persists through the end of the year, it would mark the indexs first annual decline since 2022. Moreover, a loss of over 26% in value would make it the steepest yearly drop since 2008.

Among its constituents, seven out of ten are in bear market territory, trading more than 20% below their recent peaks. Oracle Financial Services has plunged 35% to 8,594 from its December peak of 13,220, while TCS shares have slumped 33.8% from their August 2024 high to 3,036, erasing over 5 lakh crore from the companys market capitalization.

Other tech majors such as Infosys, HCL Technologies, and Wipro have fallen 29%, 25.5%, and 25.4%, respectively. Overall, 7 out of ten constituents of the index are now down more than 20% from their recent record highs.

FIIs trim holdings in nine of 10 index stocks in Q1 Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) reduced their stakes in nine of the 10 index constituents in the June quarter amid multiple headwinds. In TCS, FII holdings fell to 11.5% from 12% in Q4FY25, while Infosys saw a decline to 31.9% from 32.9%, according to the Trendlyne data.

HCL Technologies FIIs shareholding dropped sharply to 18.6% from 19.2%, LTIMindtree fell to 6.6%, Coforge slipped to 37.4% from 40.2%, and MphasiS declined to 19% from 20.6%.

Wipro and Oracle Financial Services Software registered marginal drops of 100 basis points each, to 8.2% and 8.6%, respectively, while Persistent Systems FIIs holdings eased to 24.2% from 24.4%. Tech Mahindra was the only exception, with overseas holdings rising slightly to 23.3% from 23%, Trendlyne data showed.

Tariff pressure is likely to weigh on new deals The demand outlook for Indias $283-billion IT sector remains uncertain due to US tariff risks and broader geopolitical factors. Indian tech giants started the year with high hopes for pro-growth policies from the Trump administration.

However, a series of tariff-related announcements soon dampened investor sentiment, raising fears that a potential US economic slowdown triggered by trade wars could lead to fewer IT deals.

The slowdown in new deals has already fed into companies' performance in the June quarter, with the countrys top tech firms posting muted results, reporting a single-digit top-line growth ranging from 0.8% to 8.1%.
Can a special court order the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to initiate investigation of alleged malfeasance brought to its notice by an investor? The Bombay high court is currently seized of such a case, and the final outcome could reinforce the line between judicial overreach and regulatory autonomy.

The Bombay high court has in the interim stayed a special courts order that directed Sebi to investigate alleged irregularities in Radhe Developers December 1995 listing on the BSE, after an investor sought a court-ordered probe through the criminal procedure route.

The interim stay halts the special courts 23 January order, which required Sebi to investigate and file an action taken report, till the High Court hears the case again. The matter, listed in mid-June, is expected to be taken up again later this month.

A single-judge bench of Justice R.N. Laddha issued notice to the complainant on Sebis revision plea and recorded the regulators core position: special courts under the Sebi Act are meant to try offences on complaints instituted by Sebi, and do not have the jurisdiction to compel the regulator to open investigations or supervise how it exercises its administrative powers.

In its April order, the high court highlighted Sebi's challenge to the special courts authority and stayed the execution, operation and implementation" of the impugned order.

The underlying proceedings stem from a complaint by investor and legal reporter Sapan Shrivastava, who alleged that the Gujarat-based realty developer Radhe Developers was listed on the BSE in December 1995 without complying with Sebi's listing norms and sought directions under Section 156(3) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which empowers a magistrate to direct initiation of an investigation.

Also Read: Sebi chief urges redefining role of independent directors as stewards of accountability

While acknowledging that Section 26 of the Sebi Act allows cognisance of offences only on a complaint by the regulator, the special court nevertheless held it could direct Sebi to investigate in investors interest, and ordered the regulator to inquire and report back.

Arguing before the High Court, Sebi said that Section 156(3) CrPC is confined to directing police to investigate cognisable offences and cannot be applied to statutory regulators operating under their own enabling law.

The regulator also stressed that special courts are designed for expeditious trial of offences arising under the Sebi Act upon a Sebi-filed complaint, not to mandate investigations or control Sebis discretion at the pre-complaint stage.

Shares of Radhe Developers closed 3.5% lower at 2.74 apiece on the BSE on Tuesday.

Why this matters

The case could reset the line between judicial oversight and regulatory autonomy in securities law enforcement, especially for investors attempting to revive scrutiny of legacy listings through criminal court applications.

The role of a special court is to adjudicate offences brought before it, not to identify or investigate them in the first instance," Sachit Mathur, managing partner at Emerald Law Offices, said.

Allowing special courts to direct Sebi to investigate would be an overreach and ultra vires, he said, warning it could disrupt Sebis autonomy and the statutory design that vests investigation squarely with the regulator.

Mathur added that magistrates directions under the criminal procedure code extend only to police and do not bind Sebi. Investors can escalate grievances on SCORES, which is Sebis online complaint redressal platform, approach Sebis grievance cell, and, if needed, file a writ under Article 226 for a time-bound mandamus to consider the representation without dictating the outcome.

Under Article 226 of the Indian Constitution, high courts can issue writs or directives for the enforcement of fundamental and other legal rights. Mandamus is one of the five writs, which is issued to force a public authority to perform a public duty.

Aditya Bhansali, founding partner at Mindspright Legal, said the Sebi Act does not empower special courts to order Sebi to initiate an investigation on an investors application, and Section 156(3) cannot compel statutory regulators to exercise investigative powers.

The most effective lawful route for investors seeking action is to file a writ petition before the high court," he said, noting that while the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) is an appellate forum, it is available only when there is an order by Sebi or an exchange, often absent where investors allege inaction.

The Bombay high court's interim stay aligns with its recent caution against trial courts mechanically directing criminal or investigative measures in securities market cases without clear legal footing.

Also Read: Sebi mulls framework to boost resident Indians participation in FPIs

Earlier this year, it stayed an Anti-Corruption Bureau courts order directing registration of an FIR against former Sebi chair Madhabi Puri Buch and others, finding the order mechanical and non-specific.

Rohit Jain, managing partner at Singhania & Co, said that directing an investigation would usurp a function reserved for the regulator and act before the courts jurisdiction properly begins.

Implications for investors

For investors, the case could reshape how Sebi's online grievance redressal platform SCORES and other remedies are used.

As Bombay High Court counsel Yash Joglekar noted, Section 156(3) authorises directions to the officer in charge of a police station, not to Sebi.

Legacy matters face added hurdles: laches from decades-long delays, incomplete listing records, and missing witnesseswhile Section 26 of the Sebi Act bars criminal proceedings unless initiated by Sebi itself.

The doctrine of laches is a legal principle under which legal claims can be barred due passage of an unreasonably long time.

If the high court affirms that special courts cannot compel Sebi to investigate, the practical path shifts to administrative and constitutional routes, he said.

Investors will have to rely on escalation through SCORES and the grievance cell, use RTI to seek reasons for inaction, approach SAT where there is an appealable order, and file writ petitions for time-bound considerationwithout asking courts to micromanage outcomes."

Tushar Kumar, advocate at the Supreme Court, cautioned that vintage listings pose severe practical barriers. Listings from the mid-1990s raise formidable obstaclesfrom limitation and laches to the retrieval of contemporaneous evidence, records and witnesses," he said.

A ruling upholding Sebis stance would entrench regulatory autonomy and curb ad hoc, court-driven probes, while pushing investors towards regulatory and constitutional remedies, he added.

Such a pronouncement would reinforce the line between judicial oversight and regulatory independence and may trigger debate on narrowly tailored statutory channels for independent scrutiny in exceptional casespreserving market integrity without undermining Sebis functional autonomy."
New Delhi, Markets regulator Sebi on Wednesday proposed to define 'algorithmic trading' as part of the exercise to revamp stock brokers' regulations, which will ease compliance burden.

Also, the regulator has proposed granting stock brokers access to the Negotiated Dealing System, Order Matching platform. Generally, this platform is used by banks and primary dealers for trading government securities.

Under the proposal, the regulator would for the first time define 'algorithmic trading' which means any order generated or placed using automated execution logic. The current rules do not define algorithmic trading.

Sebi has also proposed to define Execution Only Platform which means any digital or online platform which facilitates transactions such as subscription, redemption and switch transactions in direct plans of schemes of mutual funds.

"In order to permit stock brokers to carry out other activities, as may be specified by Sebi from time to time, such as accessing NDS-OM for trading in Government securities and to undertake securities market related activities in GIFT-IFSC under a separate business unit ... it is proposed to have an enabling provision in the regulations," Sebi said in its consultation paper.

Further, the regulator has proposed to include obligations and responsibilities of stock brokers in the new regulatory framework. These included protection of clients funds and securities, risk management and internal control and having a robust cyber security and cyber resilience framework.

Among others, Sebi has proposed enhancing obligations and responsibilities for qualified stock brokers .

The proposals are aimed at simplifying, easing and reducing cost of compliance, while effectively balancing investor protection and compliance with laws of the land, to build trust in the industry, and facilitate its development and growth, Sebi said.

Also, the new regulations would be harmonized with the Companies Act, 2013, it added.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India has sought public comments till September 3 on the proposals.
The human rights situation has deteriorated in Brazil, but in El Salvador there is no credible information that abuses are occurring. In Israel and the occupied territories, the only war crimes are committed by Hamas. This is the worldview, and the global respect for rights, held by the U.S. State Department under the Donald Trump administration, reflected in its annual report on rights and freedoms in different countries and released Tuesday.

The 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices is very different from last years document, issued under the Democratic administration of Joe Biden. The publication of the new text had been delayed for months, apparently to align it with the Republican administrations perceptions: until now, the usual presentation took place in April or May. Compared to previous editions, sections on respect for gay rights and analyses of gender-based violence have disappeared; instead, sections on Life and Security of Personhood have been included.

For years, the report has served as a source and argument for human rights defenders in their mobilization campaigns. The U.S. Congress also refers to it in its decisions, such as approving arms sales, among other things. But Trump had already signaled that changes were coming. On his trip to Saudi Arabia in the spring, the Republican lashed out at Western interventionism and assured that the United States would no longer be giving you lectures on how to live or how to govern your own affairs.

In the new report, nations with which Trumps Washington maintains good relations generally receive positive marks. Those that, for whatever reason, have irritated the U.S. president receive harsher rebukes than in previous years. Venezuela  whose President Nicolas Maduro the State Department accuses of links to drug trafficking  is one of the worst-ranked nations in the report: its human rights situation deteriorated significantly while there have been credible reports of disappearances, torture, arbitrary detentions, transnational repression, and many other abuses, according to the document.

The section on Israel is much shorter than in the 2023 version. There is no reference to the thousands of Palestinian deaths in Gaza, which the Hamas-run Ministry of Health estimates at over 61,000. There is also no mention of the desperate humanitarian situation or Israels restrictions on food supplies. The section on war crimes and genocide concludes with two lines: Terrorist organizations Hamas and Hizballah continue to engage in the indiscriminate targeting of Israeli civilians in violation of the law of armed conflict.

Another government that is a close ally of the Trump administration, that of President Nayib Bukele in El Salvador, has seen its ratings greatly improved, and the reports dedicated space has been significantly reduced: comments take up 75% less than in previous editions. Mentions of the countrys prison conditions, which Amnesty International had described as inhumane, and allegations of arbitrary arrests have disappeared.

According to the report, in the Central American nation: There were no significant changes in the human rights situation in El Salvador during the year. Reports of gang violence remained at a historic low under the state of exception as mass arrests suppressed gang activity. There were no credible reports of significant human rights abuses. The government took credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.

Brazil, on the other hand, whose relationship with Washington has plummeted and on which the Trump administration has imposed new tariffs due to the house arrest of former president Jair Bolsonaro  a former international ally of Trump  is vilified in the report. The State Department, which previously criticized the presidents arrest as a violation of the right to freedom of expression, attacks the government of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, arguing that the restrictions it imposes on access to internet content disproportionately harm the far-right leaders supporters.

The report also cites the courts temporary blocking of the social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, as an example of what it considers the backsliding of human rights in Brazil. The courts took broad and disproportionate action to undermine freedom of speech and internet freedom by blocking millions of users access to information on a major social media platform in response to a case of harassment, the report reads.

The State Department also believes the Brazilian government undermined democratic debate by restricting access to online content deemed to undermine democracy, disproportionately suppressing the speech of supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro as well as journalists and elected politicians, often in secret proceedings that lacked due process guarantees.

Furthermore, according to Marco Rubios department, the Brazilian government did not always take credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.

The report also criticized Berlin for its restrictions on far-right speech. In Germany, the report states, the human rights situation worsened during the year due to restrictions on freedom of expression and credible reports of crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism.

The State Department presents its new summary report as more faithful to what U.S. law requires, which requires it to submit several annual reports on the state of human rights around the world: the general report and specific ones on issues such as human trafficking or respect for religious freedom. But critics counter the institutions arguments by saying the changes reduce scrutiny of the worlds authoritarian regimes. Among other things, they point out, the sections dedicated to each country only cite a single example of the type of abuse they denounce, even though multiple cases have occurred. Previous editions listed different cases.

The report demonstrates what happens when political agendas are prioritized over facts, said Josh Paul, director of the non-profit A New Policy and a former State Department official who resigned in protest of U.S. policy in the Gaza war. The result is a much shorter product that reads more like a Soviet propaganda communique than a document of a democratic system.

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Heres a quick look at stocks likely to be in focus in today's trade. Bharat Petroleum, IRCTC, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail, FirstCry, Jubilant Foodworks Shares of Bharat Petroleum, IRCTC, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail, FirstCry, Jubilant Foodworks will remain in focus today as companies will be declaring their Q1 results.

Fsn E-Commerce Ventures (Nykaa) Nykaas parent company reported its Q1 FY26 earnings, with net profit soaring 79.4 per cent year-on-year to 24.47 crore.

Apollo Hospitals The healthcare firm reported a 42 per cent year-on-year increase in its Q1 net profit, reaching 433 crore, while revenue grew 14.9 per cent to 5,842 crore.

Cochin Shipyard The company posted a net profit of 187.8 crore for Q1 FY26, marking a 7.9 per cent year-on-year increase.

National Securities Depository Ltd NSDL posted a net profit of 89.6 crore for Q1 FY26, marking a 15.1% year-on-year increase, while its EBITDA rose 18.3% to 95.6 crore.

Vodafone Idea The company has signed a Power Purchase Agreement and a Share Purchase Agreement to acquire up to a 26% stake in Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 3.

NMDC NMDC reported a net profit of 1,968 crore for the first quarter, remaining almost unchanged year-on-year, while its revenue grew 24.5% to 6,739 crore.

Suzlon Energy The renewable energy company reported a 55% year-on-year increase in revenue for Q1 FY26, reaching 3,132 crore, while its net profit rose 7.3% to 324 crore.

Also Read | Breakout stocks to buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends five shares to buy

Radico Khaitan Radico Khaitans board has approved a strategic investment and partnership, clearing the acquisition of a 47.5% equity stake in both DYAVOL Spirits BV and DYAVOL Spirits for a total consideration of 40 crore.

Oil India Oil India posted a 44.7% quarter-on-quarter increase in net profit, reaching 1,896 crore, even as its revenue declined 10% to 7,928 crore.
Suzlon Energy share price in focus: Shares of Suzlon Energy, one of the leading global renewable energy solutions providers, fell 4.5% in intraday trade on Wednesday (August 13) to 60.32 apiece despite the company reporting record deliveries and robust growth in its order book in the June-ending quarter.

While the companys volume, revenue, and EBITDA were in line with estimates, profit after tax missed expectations due to a deferred tax charge of 134 crore, resulting in a consolidated net profit of 324 crore compared with 302 crore in the year-ago period.

Suzlon had recognized deferred tax assets of 630 crore in the previous quarter, which are now unwinding, leading to the 134 crore deferred tax charge in Q1 FY26. This, the company said in its earnings report, is purely an accounting adjustment with no cash impact.

Investor sentiment was also impacted by the company's announcement of the exit of Group CFO Himanshu Mody, effective from the close of business hours on August 31, 2025, adding that a replacement is in the final stages of selection.

The company said it has recorded consistent growth in its order book over the last 10 quarters and achieved its highest-ever deliveries of 444 MW in Q1. Consolidated revenue rose to 3,117 crore, while EBITDA climbed to 599 crore, marking 62% YoY growth driven by strong deliveries, with margins expanding by 80 basis points YoY to 19.2%.

It secured 1 GW of new orders during the quarter, taking its total order book to 5.7 GW. Its S144 order book crossed 5 GW, making it the dominant product in the Indian market. Thus, management maintained its earlier guidance of 60% growth in key parameters, including deliveries, revenue, and EBITDA, for FY26. It expects India to add 6 GW of wind energy capacity in FY26 and 78 GW in FY27.

What should investors do with Suzlon Energy shares post Q1? Motilal Oswal said the announcement of Group CFO Himanshu Modys departure could be a short-term negative, given his key role in the companys balance sheet turnaround. The brokerage also flagged concerns over installations trailing deliveries in recent quarters and tepid FY26 year-to-date new order inflow of 1 GW.

However, it noted that these factors are unlikely to derail the companys strong momentum, supported by positive regulatory tailwinds. Motilal Oswal highlighted potential upside to order inflow and margins as local content requirements come into play, a possible 700 MW ( 60 billion) deal with Tata Power, and efficiency gains such as a shorter working capital cycle.

Also Read | Mutual funds boost holding in Suzlon Energy to an all-time high in June quarter

Deliveries have already picked up in Q2FY26, with an additional 547 MW in pre-commissioning.

The brokerage cut its FY26 adjusted PAT estimate by 25% due to a higher effective tax rate and slightly raised FY27 estimates. It maintained a Buy rating with a target price of 80, implying a 26% upside.

JM Financial noted that current installations have remained at just 20% of deliveries for the past three quarters, raising concerns over execution. The brokerage estimates deliveries of 2,500 MW in FY26 and 3,100 MW in FY27, projecting EPS of 1.51 and 2.31, respectively.

It maintained a Buy rating but trimmed its target price to 78 from 80, valuing the stock at 35x FY27 EPS.
Saare Jahan Se Accha spends most of its time listing differences between India and Pakistan. But Netflixs new spy series can't help draw attention to a common heritage: language. Characters switch naturally between Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and English, as so many did in undivided Punjab. The Punjabi in particularspoken by Pakistani and Indian charactersis mellifluous, flowing off the tongues of the actors, not the same intonations youd hear in a modern Hindi film. It reminded me of Song of Lahore (2015), Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoys musical documentary, with the Punjabi session players hitting the consonants in trumpeter Wynton Marsalis name: Vin-ttun.

The show, created by Gaurav Shukla, opens with conspiracy theory (the CIA blowing up a plane with Indian nuclear physicist Homi Bhabha on board) and boilerplate spy drama truths (we operate in the shadows, our families dont know what we do). Both are delivered in a flat voiceover by Pratik Gandhi, who plays intelligence agent Vishnu Shankar. After the formation of RAW in 1968, its head, R.N. Kao (Rajat Kapoor), sends Vishnu on a top-secret mission: relocate to Islamabad and sabotage Pakistans nuclear weapons programme.

Vishnus primary asset there is Sukhbir (Suhail Nayyar), alias Rafiq, an Indian posing as a Pakistani stockbroker. Rafiq, a capable but reluctant spy, helps corrupt lieutenant colonel Rizwan (Kapil Radha) with his investments, and is wooing his sister, Naseem (Diksha Juneja). Vishnu, tailed and intimidated by local agents despite ostensibly being a diplomat, carefully pulls strings too. He pushes Naushad (Anup Soni), a Pakistan army brigadier whom theyve been blackmailing, and tries to win over Fatima (Kritika Kamra), an anti-bomb journalist who happens to be nuclear engineer Munir Khans niece. Seemingly ahead at every step is Murtaza Malik (Sunny Hinduja)Pakistans most capable officer, in the words of President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

From the moment hes introduced, the show has a problem. Murtaza is simply more interesting than Vishnu. Hinduja plays him with a mixture of sardonic reserve and restless intelligence. It lends a tension to every scene hes in, even when the situation doesnt warrant itwe cant tell how closely hes reading into his close friend Naushads behaviour, and it keeps us on edge. Hes as formidable a spy as Vishnu, but happier in the spotlight, wittier and more commanding.

Vishnu, on the other hand, never feel right at the centre of the show. Gandhi is a deft actor who was working steadily in the theatre and Gujarati cinema before Scam 1992 thrust him into lead roles in Hindi films. In Saare Jahan Se Accha, you can feel the tension between a character actor whod relish the challenge of making a drab agent interesting and a star whos supposed to carry the production. Vishnu is a cypher, as spies must often be, but Gandhi cant find a way to make this shadowy figure compelling. He keeps losing scenesto the confident Hinduja, to Tilottama Shome, rather wasted here as his confused, neglected wife, and to Nayyar, whose Sukhbir turns out to be the sad heart of the series. I couldnt help but imagine a richer, more complex show built around Sukhbir: a fascinating figure, resourceful, lonely, an Indian pretending to be Pakistani, a Sikh posing as Muslim, blackmailed by his country, with genuine attachments to the people hes spying on.

There are recent shows that have gone all-out with period recreation (Jubilee) and those that managed it with a few smart touches (Rocket Boys). Saare Jahan Se Acha tries the latter, but, apart from a sequence at a screening of cult horror film Zinda Laash, the research and detailing are inadequate. The clothes, the hair, the speech, the cultural markerslittle of it suggests a convincing 1970s Pakistan. Tumhare takes kya hain? is something you wouldnt hear today, let alone 50 years ago.

Rajat Kapoor may be styled to look like Alec Guinness Smiley, but Saare Jahan Se Acha doesnt want to be John le Carre. In its better moments, it has some of the enjoyable pulpiness of the Yash Raj spy films. One of its episodes revolves around the capture of a minor antagonist named Bilal (Rajesh Khera), an arms dealer in London with a weakness for women. The multiple subplotsthe race to extract information from Bilal, the kidnapping of his son back in Pakistan, Murtaza getting increasingly suspiciousare woven together nicely by editor Aarif Shaikh and Sumit Purohit, who directs all the episodes. I also appreciate that the Indian agents, till then less cutthroat than their Pakistani counterparts, are shown using torture, not on a particularly bad person, but one they need information from quickly. This and a messy kill in the previous episode go some way to dispelling the notion of a right side.
The mutual fund industry demonstrated strong participation in newly listed companies during the quarter ended June 2025, with total investments exceeding 5,294 crore across recent IPOs, according to a study by Ventura. The majority of these investments were in small-cap companies, with only one classified as a mid-cap, underscoring fund managers strategic tilt towards scalable, high-growth businesses with the potential for superior returns over time.

In July 2025, several newly listed companies through IPOs were added to mutual fund portfolios, with market values above 20 crore. The highest exposure was in Ather Energy, with market value held by MFs at 1,351 crore, followed closely by HDB Financial Services at 1,331 crore. Together, these two accounted for more than half of the total value. Other significant MF positions included Schloss Bangalore ( 679 crore), Aegis Vopak Terminals ( 495 crore), Belrise Industries ( 398 crore), and Oswal Pumps ( 387 crore).

Smaller, but notable, mutual fund exposures were seen in Ellenbarrie Industrial Gases ( 357 crore), Kalpataru ( 241 crore), and Sambhv Steel Tubes ( 55 crore). HDB Financial Services, Ellenbarrie Industrial Gases, and Sambhv Steel Tubes were listed in the first week of July 2025. Except for HDB Financial Services, which falls under the Mid Cap category, all other companies are Small Caps.

Strong Scheme Performance Against Nifty, Mixed Results vs Benchmarks Venturas analysis of 335 equity schemes across the top 20 asset management companies (by AUM) for the JanuaryMarch 2025 quarter showed that 90 percent of schemes outperformed the Nifty 50 TRI. This reflects the indexs relative underperformance during the period. However, only 41 percent of schemes managed to beat their respective category benchmarks, suggesting more competitive conditions and selective alpha generation.

Invesco Mutual Fund emerged as the top performer on benchmark outperformance, with 13 out of 16 schemes (81 percent) exceeding their benchmarks  the highest success rate among peers. Other fund houses, including Mirae Asset Mutual Fund, Kotak Mutual Fund, Nippon Mutual Fund, Edelweiss Mutual Fund, Canara Robeco Mutual Fund, and Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund, saw all their equity schemes outperform the Nifty, reflecting consistent delivery across portfolios, noted Ventura.

Smallcap Funds See Sharpest AUM Growth Moroever, Ventua pointed out that Smallcap funds registered a 20 percent rise in assets under management, the highest growth among all categories, marking a strong reversal from the previous quarter when they ranked at the bottom. This rebound signals renewed investor confidence in high-risk, high-reward segments.

Meanwhile, it noted that Midcap and multicap funds followed closely, posting growth of 17 percent and 16.5 percent respectively, supported by a broader market rally and increased interest in diversification beyond largecaps. The AUM surge suggests investors are moving down the market-cap curve in search of better returns, encouraged by attractive valuations, improved earnings visibility, and steady domestic retail inflows.

Furthermore, the large & midcap category also posted robust growth of 14.8 percent, benefiting from its balance of stability and growth. Sectoral and thematic funds saw an 11.9 percent increase, reflecting demand for targeted exposure to areas such as manufacturing, defence, and electric vehicles.

Sector Allocation Trends Private Banks maintained the largest share of mutual fund AUM among the top 10 sectors at 30 percent ( 4.66 lakh crore). IT  Software and Pharmaceuticals followed with 15 percent and 13.5 percent shares, respectively.

While the top five sectors remained unchanged, notable changes emerged in the lower half of the rankings. Telecom  Services climbed to sixth place with 88,368 crore (5.8 percent), reflecting rising investor interest in a digitally driven growth sector. Auto Ancillary entered the top 10 for the first time with 69,631 crore (4.5 percent), replacing Hospitals & Healthcare.

Conversely, Power and Engineering & Construction slipped slightly in position despite maintaining substantial allocations. The changes suggest a selective portfolio realignment by fund managers, balancing sectoral rotation with long-term structural themes.
American State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Tuesday that the relationship of the United States with both India and Pakistan remains unchanged, adding that the diplomats are committed to both nations. The US' remarks have come days after Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir threatened nuclear attack in the event of an existential threat.

Speaking at the State Department briefing, Tammy Bruce referred to the India-Pakistan conflict following the Pahalgam terror attack said, We had an experience with Pakistan and India, when there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible.

There was immediate concern and movement with the Vice President JD Vance, the President Donald Trump and the Secretary of State Marco Rubio in addressing the nature of what was happening, she said as she emphasised the success of diplomatic efforts in preventing the conflict from escalating.

We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring. It's a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance and the top leaders in this nation were involved in stopping that potential catastrophe, Tammy Bruce said. Also Read | US hails Pakistans success against terror, condemns loss of lives in barbaric attacks

US-PAKISTAN DIALOGUE Tammy Bruce also highlighted the counter-terrorism dialogue between the US and Pakistan in Islamabad on Tuesday and said both countries have reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad. The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats.

"For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future that's beneficial," she added.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit India on August 18 for talks under the Special Representatives mechanism, according to officials in the know. Indias Special Representative is NSA Ajit Doval.

The Chinese Foreign Minister's visit comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to the nation for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

Also Read | China, US Clash Over Naval Incident Near Scarborough Shoal

India and China's bilateral relations had been strained following the border clashes in 2020, in Ladakh's Galwan which killed 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese troops. Wang Yi's visit comes amid an apparent easing of tensions between Beijing and New Delhi following de-escalation in certain border sectors.

India, China to resume direct flights India and China are also set to resume direct flights as soon as next month.

The deal could be formally announced when Modi is expected to head to China for the first time in seven years and meet leader Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held in Tianjin from Aug. 31, the people said.

Also Read | Trump mulls tariffs on China over Russian oil purchases after move against India

Direct commercial flights between the two Asian nations have been suspended since early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the suspension, travellers have had to transit through regional hubs such as Hong Kong, Singapore or Bangkok, significantly increasing travel time and costs.

When will PM Modi visit China? Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Tianjin, China, on August 31 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. His travel to the South Asian nation will mark his first visit to the country in seven years.

PM Modis trip is expected to feature bilateral meetings on the sidelines, with speculation that he could hold direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid efforts to stabilise ties after years of strained relations following the 2020 border clashes in Ladakh.

Also Read | JPMorgan mulls cutting China, India share in EM Bond index

The SCO, a regional alliance focused on security, trade and political cooperation, includes major powers such as China, Russia and Central Asian states.

China welcomes PM Modi's planned visit Last week, China welcomed PM Modi's planned visit.
OCI Alert: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has tightened rules for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), stating that registrations can be revoked if the cardholder is sentenced to at least two years in prison or is charge-sheeted for an offence carrying a punishment of seven years or more.

The OCI card allows Indian-origin foreign nationals to visit India without a visa.

Also Read | Green card hopes of Indian-origin kids at risk after new US citizenship rules

In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (da) of section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955 (57 of 1955), the central government hereby states that an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration shall be liable to get cancelled when a person has been sentenced to imprisonment for term of not less than two years or has been charge-sheeted for an offence entailing punishment of imprisonment for seven years or more, reads the notification issued by the Ministry, as per multiple reports.

What do the OCI rules say? As per the latest notification, the Ministry of Home Affairs has specified two grounds for the cancellation of OCI registration:

- If an OCI cardholder is sentenced to jail for a term of two years or more.

- If they are charge-sheeted for an offence that carries a punishment of seven years or more.

Also Read | Over 2 lakh Indians gave up their citizenship in 2024, says govt data

 The provision applies to all OCI cardholders irrespective of whether the conviction occurred in India or abroad, provided the offence is recognised under Indian law, an official told news wire ANI.

Why the move The move is aimed at tightening the legal framework governing OCI status, which grants certain rights and privileges to foreign citizens of Indian origin, reported Akashvani.

Overseas Citizens of India scheme  Introduced in August 2005, the Overseas Citizens of India scheme allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to travel to India without a visa, offering long-term residency and multiple-entry benefits.
Hajj 2026: The Hajj Committee of India held the Qurrah or Qurandazi, or the drawing of lots, to announce the name of the candidates who have been selected for the annual pilgrimage for next year.

Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca undertaken by Muslims across the globe, is expected to take place between May 24 and 29, 2026.

How to check Qurrah result  The Hajj Committee of India, on Wednesday, August 13, released the Qurrah draw results on the committee's official website hajcommittee.gov.in.

 Candidates who had applied for the pilgrimage can check the status and Qurrah result by using their cover number.

Also Read | Saudia flight from Jeddah reports smoke from wheels after landing in Lucknow

 The procedure was also broadcast live on hajcommittee.gov.in and took place at the Hajj Committee's Committee Room at Hajj House in Mumbai.

 Earlier, the Hajj committee had also mentioned that applicants will also be notified through SMS.

Details required to check Qurrah result Applicants who had submitted their applications for Hajj 2026 by August 7, can check the Qurrah results using their cover number.

What's next after Hajj selection?  All the pilgrims who have been shortlisted for Hajj 2025, are required to pay an advance of 1,52,300 by August 20.

 Hajj 2026 will have 18 departure points across India, including:

Delhi,

Mumbai,

Kolkata,

Bengaluru,

Tier-2 cities (except Bhopal, Vijayawada, and Aurangabad)  Flight schedules for the pilgrimage  including departure and return timings  will be announced later.

What if you fail to pay advance fee? In case any shortlisted pilgrim is unable to pay the advance amount, his/her application for Hajj 2026 will be cancelled.

Hajj 2026 dates As per multiple reports, next year, Hajj is expected to take place between May 24 and 29, 2026.

Short duration Hajj package  On Sunday, the Hajj Committee of India announced a Short Duration Hajj Package for working professionals.
Civil aviation regulator DGCA has warned Air India's Accountable Manager and CEO Campbell Wilson after finding the airline's response as "unsatisfactory" to the show cause notice issued in relation to flight duty time violations by the crew of two long-haul flights that were operated in May, sources said on Wednesday.

Campbell, who is the CEO and MD, is also the Accountable Manager of the Tata Group-owned airline.

"Air India is in receipt of the DGCA letter with regard to rostering issues on two long-haul flights reported in mid-May that arose due to a different interpretation of a permission that was granted to mitigate the border-related airspace closure. This was corrected immediately after the right interpretation was conveyed to us. Air India remains fully compliant with the rules," an airline spokesperson said.

In its order, dated August 11, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said, "... Accountable Manager of M/s Air India Ltd. is hereby warned and advised to exercise utmost diligence and responsibility in ensuring strict compliance with the applicable Civil Aviation requirements."

The DGCA in June this year issued a show-cause notice to the airline for breaching the "flight duty time limitation" of the crew during two long-haul flights between Bengaluru and London on May 16 and 17.

Also Read | What Air Indias new timeline for full retrofit of its planes means

Also Read | Air India plane crash: Man who lost mother moves US Federal Court against Boeing

Both flights had exceeded the 10-hour duty limit allowed under the DGCA regulations.

The DGCA in the show-cause notice said that the airline's accountable manager failed to ensure compliance with these regulations and asked Air India to explain within seven days why action should not be taken against it.

"The reply submitted by M/s Air India in response to the Show Cause Notice has been duly examined and found to be unsatisfactory in addressing the regulatory lapses and deficiencies noted," the aviation safety regulator said in its order.

In the past year, there have been a total of 93 audit findings with Air India (along with now merged Vistara) and Air India Express, as per recent DGCA data.

These findings included 19 level-1 violations, which are considered critical safety risks and require immediate corrective action by the air operator.
The Bharatiya Janata Party launched a counterattack on the Congress party on Wednesday by claiming that the former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi had been illegally, though briefly, added to the voter list 45 years ago, before she was an Indian citizen.

Former Union Minister Anurag Thakur claimed Gandhiborn Sonia Maino in Italy in 1946  was added to the list from 1980 to 1982, a year before she became an Indian citizen, NDTV reported.

Also Read | Tejashwi Yadav says EC helping BJP leaders with 2 voter cards in Bihar

The allegation comes amid vote chori charges by Rahul Gandhi, accusing the Election Commission of India of colluding with the BJP

Thakurs allegations were first shared by BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya, who had posted on X hours earlier.

Sharing a photocopy of what appeared to be an extract from the electoral rolls of 1980, indicating Sonia Gandhi was a voter when she did not yet acquire the citizenship of Bharat. "If this isn't blatant electoral malpractice, what is?"

Malviya claimed Gandhi, who married Rajiv Gandhi in 1968, had been added to the voter list while the Gandhi family lived at the official residence of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

ECI should be blamed: Congress In response, Congress leader Tariq Anwar told NDTV that Sonia Gandhi had not asked for her name to be included in the voter roll. Anwar said that the poll body officials of the time did so.

"See... the Election Commission is responsible. Sonia Gandhi did not say 'my name should be included in the voter registration list'. In the end, it was the Election Commission that included her...," he said.

Anwar said, Gandhi never made a request to be added to the voter list.

BJP defeated Ambedkar through fraud: BJP The BJP also alleged Congress defeated Bhimrao Ambedkar, regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution, in the 1952 general election through electoral fraud.

If we start from 1952, Congress and CPI together defeated Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a constitution maker and a saint-like leader, in the election. Congress laid the foundation of electoral corruption in the very first election of 1952," BJP MP Anurag Thakur said at a press conference held in the party's headquarters here.

Check the records: 74,333 votes were rejected, while Ambedkar ji lost by just 14,561 votes. Congress ensured that a constitution maker, a Dalit leader, was eliminated in the very first election. Imagine, the one who created the constitution was defeated by the Congress family through electoral fraud, he added.

Sonia Gandhi did not say 'my name should be included in the voter registration list'.

The BJP MP alleged that Rahul Gandhi and his family had a history of questioning the Election Commission when they lost elections.

This family and party have had a tradition from the beginning that if you lose an election, you raise questions about the Election Commission, the voters, or the functioning of the Election Commission. Indira Gandhi had said, Voters are a bunch of fools. When Rajiv Gandhi lost the election, he blamed the ballot paper. Rahul Gandhi's father used to say, conduct elections with voting machines, and Rahul Gandhi says, conduct elections with ballot papers, he said.
Mexican tourism appears to be experiencing a golden moment. Data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) show that visits to the country have been steadily increasing since 2023, following the severe blow of the Covid-19 pandemic. June was a month of positive numbers, with more than eight million tourists arriving, representing an 11.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The majority of these travelers (more than four million) were foreigners, 10% higher than the same month a year earlier. The statistics institute records more than 23 million tourists in the first half of the year.

Spending by these visitors has also increased. The INEGI report shows that foreign currency income reached $2.7 billion, representing a 5.7% increase over the previous year. The average spending per visitor in June was $343, although those arriving by air spent more, averaging $1,000 per person.

These are good numbers for a country recovering from the scourge of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mexico closed 2020 with a 46% drop in international tourism due to the health emergency. That year, the country received 20 million fewer foreign tourists compared to 2019, representing a loss of more than $13 billion. Before the coronavirus crisis, Mexican tourism had enjoyed several years of success, even exceeding the governments expectations. In 2019, the North American country welcomed 48 million tourists, representing an 8% increase compared to the previous year. Income from these visitors exceeded $24.8 billion, a figure celebrated by both authorities and industry leaders.

The pandemic seems distant five years later, and Mexico is now among the six most-visited destinations in the world: in 2024, it received 45 million international tourists, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur). The country has also become the second most-popular destination for medical tourism, with 1.2 million foreign patients annually. Seven out of 10 tourists who choose Mexico for their vacations come from the United States or Canada.

The new figures reinforce the idea that Mexico is in fashion and that its capital is a popular destination for foreigners. Mexico City is experiencing the so-called chilango moment, with a huge influx of tourists, not without controversy due to the rising cost of living and increases in rental prices for houses and apartments. Tourism in the capital registered a 103% increase in 2023, according to the city government.

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Odisha Police said on Wednesday that two graffiti threatening that terrorists will demolish the Jagannath Temple in Puri district were found on the wall of a small temple near the 12th-century shrine.

One of the graffiti reads, Terrorists will demolish the Srimandir. Call me, or else there will be destruction, reported news agency PTI.

The text written in Odia was found on the wall of Maa Budhi Thakurani Temple located at Bali Sahi. There are several phone numbers mentioned on the wall of the temple. Words such as 'PM Modi', 'Delhi' were also mentioned, a Puri resident was quoted as saying by PTI.

Puris Superintendent of Police (SP) Pinak Mishra, who visited the spot, said: We have taken cognisance of the matter and are taking it very seriously. We have got some information, and police teams are being formed to arrest those who are behind such a threat.

The police are verifying the CCTV footage in the area, and it appears that the threats were written on Tuesday night.

CCTVs have been installed at several places. Security guards have also been deployed. Investigation is underway on a war footing, the SP said.

The police are also trying to ascertain the motive behind the mischief.

Also Read | Jagannath temple priest to develop 200cr spiritual luxury resort project in Puri

Odisha govt rejects proposal for online sale of Jagannath Temples Mahaprasad The Odisha government has rejected the proposal made by some organisations for the sale of Puri Jagannath Temple's Mahaprasad on an online platform, state Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said.

Speaking to reporters in Bhubaneswar on Monday, Harichandan said some organisations recently requested the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to deliver the Puri temple's 'Mahaprasad' and 'dry prasad' to devotees through online platforms.

Though it was a good idea to provide the prasad to devotees worldwide, the government and SJTA rejected the proposal to preserve the sanctity of the holy offering, he said.
India is all set to celebrate the 79th Independence Day on Friday this year. On this day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag at Red Fort in New Delhi.

It will be PM Modis 12th consecutive address to the country, and his second since returning to power for the third consecutive term.

Also Read | How Rashtrapati Bhavan will celebrate eastern heritage on 15 August

India attained Independence from the British colonial rule on 15 August 1947 after over two centuries, in which several revolutionaries laid their live for the freedom of the country.

Among the few revolutionaries include Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Sukhdev, Rajguru and others.

Also Read | Women panchayat leaders to take centre stage at I-Day celebrations

However, India is not the only country to celebrate its independence on 15 August.

Here is a list of 5 countries who share their Independence Day with India: Korea (North and South): Liberation From Japan Both North and South Korea celebrate 15 August as 'Gwangbokjeol' or Liberation Day. It is the day in 1945 when the Japanese occupation came to an end after 35 years.

Bahrain: On 15 August 1971, Bahrain declared independence from Britain after a United Nations survey confirmed the will of it people. But they don't celebrate independence on this day, and they do it on 16 December as they mark it with late Emir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa's ascension to the throne, reported Economic Times.

Republic of the Congo: One part of French Equatorial Africa, the Republic of Congo gained independence from France on 15 August 1960.
Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar after his criticism of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who had accused Tel Aviv of genocide in Gaza and criticised the Indian government for its silence on the matter.

In a strongly worded post on social media platform X, Khera slammed Reuven Azar, stating that a foreign envoy 'targeting' a sitting Member of the Indian Parliament is both unprecedented and intolerable.

The Congress leader further tagged S Jaishankar, questioning if freedom of speech in India had now begun to be regulated from Israel".

What Reuven Azar said? Following Priyanka Gandhi's post on X, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar accused the Congress leader of spreading deceit and presented Israels version of the conflicts toll.

What is shameful is your deceit. Israel killed 25,000 Hamas terrorists. The terrible cost in human lives derives from Hamass heinous tactics of hiding behind civilians, their shooting of people trying to evacuate or receive assistance and their rocket fire, Azar said in his post.

What Priyanka Gandhi said? The Israeli diplomat's post came after Priyanka Gandhi alleged that Israel murdered over 60,000 people, 18,430 of whom were children, starved hundreds to death, and was threatening to starve millions more.

Enabling these crimes by silence and inaction is a crime in itself.

It is shameful that the Indian Government stands silent as Israel unleashes this devastation on the people of Palestine, she wrote on X on Tuesday.

How other leaders reacted to Israeli diplomat's post Apart from Pawan Khera, Congress's Gaurav Gogoi also hit out at the Israeli ambassador, stating that the Parliament cannot remain a passive spectator.

"The disparaging comments made by a foreign Ambassador against a Member of Parliament of India is a serious breach of privilege. Even if the Union Government is silent, the Parliament cannot remain a passive spectator," he said on X.

Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister Anand Sharma also strongly condemned the remarks of the Israeli ambassador to India, "denying" the humanitarian crisis of Gaza, saying that the language used by the Israeli representative is "undiplomatic, distasteful and unacceptable", while brutality, destruction of schools, hospitals and mass starvation are taking place.

Gaza war As the bombardment continues in Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it has approved the "framework" for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, days after the security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza City, reported AFP.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday claimed that any attempt to stop the flow of water into Pakistan is a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty and will be met with a "decisive response."

The threat directed at India came a day after Pakistans former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari made similar comments, describing the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as an attack on the Indus Valley Civilisation.

"Enemy [India] can't snatch even a single drop of water from Pakistan," Sharif was quoted as saying at an event in Islamabad by news agency ANI.

"You threatened to stop our water. If you attempt such a move, Pakistan will teach you a lesson you will never forget," he said.

India put in abeyance the 1960 agreement soon after the 22 April Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 people. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier announced that India would never restore the historic accord.

Sharif emphasised that water was a lifeline for Pakistan, and no compromise would be made on the country's rights under international agreements, as per Geo News.

The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960, following nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan, with the assistance of the World Bank, which is also a signatory.

Also Read | Asim Munir now threatens to target Mukesh Ambani's Jamnagar refinery

On Monday, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari equated the diversion of the Indus river's water away from Pakistan as an attack on the history, culture and civilisation of the country, particularly Sindh.

"If Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces an attack on Indus, he attacks our history, our culture, and our civilisation," Bhutto, the Pakistan Peoples Party's Chairman, said in a speech delivered at the concluding ceremony of the three-day urs celebrations of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai in Bhit Shah in Matiari district.

If you attempt such a move, Pakistan will teach you a lesson you will never forget.

Bhutto's remark came a day after Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir issued a fresh nuclear threat against India.

Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly said that Pakistan could use its nuclear weapons to take down India and half the world in case his country faced an existential threat in a future war with India.
With the Supreme Court issued a relocation order of stray dogs from Delhi-NCR residential areas to shelters on Monday, a fight escalated between animal activists and lawyers outside the apex court.

In the ruling Supreme Court asked the authorities to relocate all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR residential areas to shelters within eight weeks to control rising rabies cases.

However, dog lovers and lawyers  standing outside the Supreme Court  clashed with each other just after the Supreme Court order. Soon, the clash turned into physical assaults quickly.

The incident was recorded by the bystanders from their camera, and now the video has gone viral. In the video, a lawyer and some people can be seen fighting with each other.

Though the bystanders at the scene tried to intervene, both the dog lovers and lawyers outside the Supreme Court were seen shouting and abusing.

Protest at India Gate: Upset with Supreme Court order, a large number of animal activists and dog lovers gathered at India Gate in Delhi. Animal welfare and care services (AWC) took to X and wrote, "We are the voters and we want to practice our constitutional right. The Indian Constitution, particularly Article 51A(g), mandates citizens to protect and improve the environment, including wildlife, and to have compassion for all living creatures."

What Supreme Court said: Earlier on Monday, the Supreme Court in its order to civic authorities in the Delhi NCR region, directed them immediately build dog shelters, move stray dogs and update the court. The apex court added that authorities must hire professionals who can tackle dogs, carry out sterilisation and immunisation and also have CCTVs to ensure dogs don't escape.

"We are not doing this for us, it is for the public interest. So, no sentiments of any nature should be involved. Action should be taken at the earliest. Pick up dogs from all localities and shift them to shelters. For the time being, forget the rules," Justice Pardiwala had.

Former Union minister Maneka Gandhi strongly criticised the order. Speaking to PTI, she said, "You have three lakh dogs in Delhi. To get them all off the roads, you'll have to make 3,000 pounds, each with drainage, water, a shed, a kitchen, and a watchman. That will cost about 15,000 crore. Does Delhi have 15,000 crore for this?"
With both India and Pakistan are going to celebrate their 79th Independence Day this week, people often get confused why these neighbours celebrate their independence on different dates, despite attaining freedom from British colonial rule on the same date.

According to the details, the Indian Independence Act of 1947 had created two new independent dominions  India and Pakistan  by partitioning the Bengal and Punjab provinces.

The Act states: "As from the fifteenth day of August, nineteen hundred and forty-seven, two independent Dominions shall be set up in India, to be known respectively as India and Pakistan."

The founding father of Pakistan, Mohammed Ali Jinnah, in his historic radio address declared that August 15 is the birthday of the independent and sovereign state of Pakistan.

What theories state? However, theories state that Pakistan's Independence Day is somehow related to the busy schedule of Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of British India and the first Governor.

Though the power transfer was planned before June 1948, but Mountbatten had planned to announce Independence Day for both countries as August 15. For this, he went to Karachi to transfer the power of governance of Pakistan to Muhammad Ali Jinnah on August 14, 1947.

While, another theory notes that at a cabinet meeting chaired by the first Prime Minister of Pakistan Liaquat Ali Khan, the independence day of Pakistan was proposed a day before India, which was approved by Jinnah and the date was advanced to August 14.

Some theories suggest that Pakistan's Independence date is related to religious reasons. According to experts, the intervening night of August 14 and 15, 1947, coincided with the 27th day of Ramzan. Considered auspicious, August 14 was taken as the day of independence.

Science-wise, it is stated that the Indian Standard Time (IST) is 30 minutes ahead of Pakistan Standard Time (PST). With India becoming a free country at 00:00 hours on August 15, it was still 11:30pm on August 14. So Pakistan celebrates freedom. SO Pakistan celebrates Independence on August 14 each year.

Pakistan Independence Day theme? This year, Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day. The theme for the celebration has been named 'Marka-e-Haq' (Battle of Truth). According to The Dawn, this highlights Pakistan's steadfast resolve, sacrifices, and unity.

Also Read | Will India celebrate 78th or 79th Independence Day this year?
Maharashtra government is 'not interested in regulating people's food choices', Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, amid the row over some civic bodies in Mumbai ordering the closure of slaughterhouses and shops selling meat on August 15, Independence Day.

CM Fadnavis feigned ignorance about the existence of a 37-year-old government resolution (GR) allowing closure of abattoirs on certain days, including Independence Day. He added that municipal corporations take such decisions on their own.

As per the details, a few civic bodies in Maharashtra have ordered the closure of slaughterhouses and shops selling meat on August 15, which has triggered a controversy.

"The state government is not interested in (knowing) who eats what. We have many other issues to address. Some people even went ahead and called vegetarian people as impotent. This nonsense should stop at once," PTI quoted Fadnavis as saying.

On being asked about municipal corporations ordering closure of abattoir on August 15, the CM said, "The state never took such a decision. A government resolution (GR) was issued in August 1988. Municipal corporations take such decisions (ordering closure of slaughterhouses) on their own. Even I was not aware of such a GR existing for such a long period. I also learned about it (GR) through the media. Similar decisions were taken when (Shiv Sena UBT leader) Uddhav Thackeray was chief minister of Maharashtra (November 2019-June 22).

Ajit pawar reaction: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar had also expressed displeasure over the same, stating that such types of restrictions were generally imposed during religious occasions such as Mahashivratri, Mahavir Jayanti, reported PTI.

Also Read | Meat ban: SC rejects plea against Bombay HC order

"It is wrong to impose such a ban. In major cities, people of different castes and religions reside. If it is an emotional issue, then people accept it (ban) for a day. But if you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," PTI quoted Pawar as saying in Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation announced the closure of slaughterhouses, outlets and shops selling meat within city limits on two days - August 15, 20.

In its order, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation stated that being August 15 Gokul Ashtami  a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, and August 20  marking the beginning of 'Paryushan Parva'- a key festival of the Jain community characterised by fasting and prayers, There will be a ban on slaughtering animals and selling meat in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city.

Also Read | Sale of meat banned in Mumbai for four days during Jain fasting period

Similar order has been passed by Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Thane district near Mumbai which directed the closure of meat shops on August 15. Also, Malegaon Municipal Corporation, too, issued such an order.

Oppositon slams move: Commenting on the orders, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray said that the KDMC commissioner should be suspended because it is not their issue to decide on vegetarian or non-vegetarian food consumption. "It is our decision what to eat and not to eat on Independence Day. We will definitely eat non-veg food. The commissioner should instead address the issue of potholes on streets," Thackeray said.
American TV host Rachel Maddow ripped into United States President Donald Trump hours after he deployed National Guard into Washington DC reportedly to curb the rate of crime, saying it is not about that but authoritarian takeover of the country. Rachel Maddow said Donald Trump enjoys using the US military against American citizens.

Speaking on The Rachel Maddow Show on Tuesday, August 12, night, the TV host said, Lets be generous here. Maybe its not really just a generic tough-on-crime thing. Maybe its specifically because its DC, which is the seat of the U.S. federal government. Maybe [Trumps] just really sensitive about protecting the federal government.

Rachel Maddow said the deployment of the National Guard may not be him being tough on crime, maybe he enjoys it.

Maybe its what you can see with your own two eyes. Maybe its that he really enjoys using US military force against American civilians on American soil and wants any excuse to do it anywhere he can. Watch what they do, not what they say, she said.

THIS IS AUTHORITARIAN TAKEOVER The American TV host pointed out that Donald Trump has remained silent on shooting at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, where an armed gunman opened fire inside the federal building. She alleged that Trump was using the military to cull protests against him and face the American citizens.

Terming the deployment of the National Guard in Washington DC as authoritarian takeover, Rachel Maddow said, We clearly are now in the part of the attempted authoritarian takeover where our authoritarian leader just starts trying to turn our own military to face us, the people of this country.

NATIONAL GUARD DEPLOYMENT IN WASHINGTON Donald Trump said Monday, August 11, hes taking over Washington's police department and activating 800 members of the National Guard in the hopes of reducing crime.

The National Guard deployment in Washington DC was enforced even as the national capital officials stressed that crime was already going down.

Trump, flanked by his attorney general, his defense secretary and the FBI director, said he was declaring a public safety emergency and his administration would be removing homeless encampments.

Were going to take our capital back, Trump declared, adding he'd also be getting rid of the slums.
The panchayati raj ministry will host 210 panchayat representatives from 28 states and Union territories as special guests for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort in New Delhi on 15 August.

This comes as India sticks to its stand of protecting farmers in trade talks with the US. According to a press statement from the panchayati raj ministry, the panchayat representatives will be accompanied by their spouses and nodal officers, and 425 participants are expected to attend.

This years special guests include a significant number of women panchayat leaders who have brought visible improvements in their gram panchayats, like better infrastructure, enhanced public services and inclusive community initiatives. The women leaders have achieved significant success in saturating flagship government schemes such as Har Ghar Jal Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaGramin and Mission Indradhanush while also encouraging innovative local initiatives and solutions at the grassroots, stated the release.

The government release stated that the elected women representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions exemplify the emerging strength of rural leadership, successfully combining their governance responsibilities with forward-looking development approaches across diverse regions of the country.

Meanwhile, a formal felicitation programme for the special guests will be held on 14 August in New Delhi. The felicitation ceremony will include the launch of the artificial intelligence-powered SabhaSaar application, a digital tool to promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in local governance, specifically at the gram panchayat level, and the release of the 16th issue of the Gramoday Sankalp magazine.

The SabhaSaar app leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to generate structured Minutes of Meeting (MoM) from gram sabha videos and audio recordings. Earlier, the minutes were transcribed manually. So, citizens can access the MoM and decisions taken by their panchayat members.

Minister of panchayati raj (MoPR) Rajiv Ranjan Singh and minister of state for panchayati raj Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel will attend the function. Additionally, MoPR secretary Vivek Bharadwaj and other senior ministry officials will also be present on the occasion. The theme for this years programme, Atmanirbhar Panchayat, Vikshit Bharat Ki Pehchaan, captures the vision of self-reliant panchayats as a pillar of developed India.

Also Read | 5 key factors that could drive the Sensex to 1 lakh by next Independence Day
The Indian Consulate in Chicago on 12 August sought "prompt action" into the reprehensible act involving desecration of main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana.

It said that the consul general urged devotees, including the mayor of Greenwood for togetherness, solidarity and vigilance against miscreants in the temple area.

Desecration of main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana is reprehensible. The Consulate is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with law enforcement authorities for prompt action. Today Consul General addressed a gathering of devotees and local leadership including Honble Mayor of Greenwood, calling for unity & solidarity, and vigilance against miscreants there, the Indian Consulate said.

A total of three incidents like this have taken place in the US this year, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) said. This one occurred at midnight on 10 August and prior to Krishna Janmashtami on August 16. The miscreants used spray paint to write a hateful message on the temple's key outdoor sign.

A BAPS volunteer informed IndyStar that the graffiti was a message of hate and intolerance against Hindus, which was removed after the Greenwood Police Department learnt of the incident.

CoHNA stated, For the minority Hindu community in the US, freedom of religion feels like an increasingly hollow promise. When our places of worship are attacked with impunity, where does a Hindu go for religious ceremonies, for spiritual solace and for community? It is time for lawmakers and law enforcement leaders across the country to urgently study and address this issue.

Also Read | Canada Hindu temple vandalised; police launch manhunt to nab suspects

Earlier incident A Hindu temple in Southern California was vandalised with graffiti that included anti-Hindu and anti-Indian government remarks.

The incident that happened in March this year sparked condemnation from the Ministry of External Affairs in India, which sought action against the perpetrators.
The central part of the Tzabnah Caves, where there are several stalagmites used to determine when droughts occurred and how long they lasted.

After centuries of prosperity, the Mayan civilization began to decline in the 8th century CE, collapsing completely over the next two centuries. They abandoned their cities  with their pyramids, stadiums, ceremonial plazas and their fields, sustained by hydraulic engineering as ingenious and advanced as that of their contemporaries, the Arabs.

This decline has been attributed to local wars, invasions from the north and south, disease, climate change or a combination of several of these factors. Among them, however, the impact of climate on these agrarian-based societies stands out. Now, the study of a stalagmite from a cave near Mayan cities such as Chichen Itza has helped clarify its role: according to this analysis, published in Science Advances, in the last 200 years of the Classic Period, at least 44 of them experienced extreme droughts.

Like the early agrarian empires of the Near and Middle East, which relied on urban exploitation of surplus field cereals, Mayan cities depended on the production of various crops, especially maize. And, like those earlier civilizations, drought may have wiped them out. Researchers have now discovered that between 870 and 1100 CE, there were eight extreme drought events on the Yucatan Peninsula, one of the core areas of Mayan civilization. They define an extreme drought as three or more consecutive years with the dry season extended by at least three months, or even years with no rainy season at all.

The first of these droughts began in 894. It was followed by a year with normal rainfall, then another five consecutive years with scarcely any rain. The longest event occurred in 929, when precipitation remained anomalously low for 13 years. It was the longest drought on record, both from pre-Columbian times and in the centuries that followed.

Several of the authors of the study of the stalagmite in Labna, one of the cities abandoned after several events of extreme drought. Mark Brenner

Sediments at the bottom of lakes and studies of other stalagmites had already highlighted the significant role of drought during the so-called Terminal Classic period of the Maya. Various speleothems (such as stalactites or stalagmites) grow drop by drop from minerals present in filtered water, forming layer upon layer each year. This allows them, much like tree rings, to serve as environmental records, particularly of rainfall. The major contribution of this study is that researchers were able to track precipitation variations not just year by year, but almost month by month.

Knowing the average annual rainfall doesnt tell us as much as knowing what each rainy season was like, explains Daniel James, a researcher specializing in past climate reconstruction at University College London and first author of the study. Maize grows throughout the wet season and is harvested at its end. And crop yield depends on rainfall. Being able to isolate the rainy season allows us to accurately track the duration of the drought from the rainy season, which is what determines the success or failure of crops, adds James.

The researchers found that their dating of drought events corresponded fairly well with data obtained from other speleothems and lake sediments. Overall, they saw that the climatic data matched archaeological evidence: inscriptions on commemorative stelae, monument construction, and political activity at several major northern Maya sites came to a halt at various points during this period of climatic stress.

It could have been even worse. The segment of stalagmite they studied, from the Tzabnah Caves, located a few dozen miles from Maya cities like Chichen Itza and Uxmal, records the period between 870 and 1100. However, there is a roughly 50-year gap, between 1021 and 1070, during which the speleothem did not grow.

James, who conducted this study while at the University of Cambridge, recalls in an email that there are many possible reasons for this, one being that there could have been so little rain that the dripping stopped completely during a severe drought.

Or, just the opposite, says David Dominguez, a geologist at the University of Salamanca. If it rains too much, dissolution occurs, preventing growth, explains the Spanish scientist, an expert in speleothems who was not involved in this research.

Portion of the stalagmite studied. The image has been flipped horizontally to make it easier to see the successive calcite layers. The variations also indicate changes in rainfall patterns. Here, there are 230 years of rain and drought. Stacy A. Carolin

Stalagmites form when water drips from a cave ceiling and minerals  particularly calcite  precipitate. Trapped within them are isotopes of elements like oxygen and carbon, which help determine the source of the water. In the case of the Maya cave, researchers estimated that rainwater took about a month to infiltrate.

By dating and analyzing the oxygen isotope layers in the stalagmite, they could detect droughts and their duration. The layers dont indicate the exact amount of rainfall, but in years with little rain, the isotopes are heavier, explains Dominguez.

Cities such as Uxmal were abandoned at the end of this period, while others show more ambiguous signs. Evidence suggests that Chichen Viejo declined, but what is now known as Chichen Itza prospered for a while longer. The differences between sites reflect different social responses to drought, says James. Chichen Itza had a wide range of trade networks and was highly centralized, which would have allowed for the accumulation or importation of resources in times of scarcity.

A separate 2021 study showed that a short drought  lasting just a few months or a single wet season  would cause supply issues, but 89% of production would still succeed. However, in cases of extreme drought, as defined in the new study, crop yields could drop to one-tenth of normal levels. One of the authors of that study, Scott Fedick, professor emeritus of anthropology at the University of California, Riverside, believes the new study underestimates the resilience of Maya cities.

In our [2021] paper, there is a marked difference between the food plants available during moderate and extreme drought, Fedick writes. While most annual species will not produce enough, a wide variety of nutritious perennial food plants would."

He argues that the new study places too much emphasis on the impact of drought on annual crops such as maize, beans, and squash, without recognizing the potential contribution to food security from numerous drought-resistant perennial species that would endure a moderate drought and only decline gradually under an extreme one.

Historian Rafael Cobos, a professor at the Autonomous University of Yucatan (Mexico) and an expert on Mayan civilization, notes that cities in the region faced similar pressures. My research suggests that both Uxmal and Chichen Itza were contemporaneous, and both pre-Columbian cities completed their development and peak at the end of the 11th century, just as the great drought that affected Yucatan and the rest of the world was at its peak, he says via email.

Although some scholars argue, based on the archaeological record, that centers like Chichen Itza continued to flourish despite this climatic adversity, Cobos concludes that the Maya civilization, with a society dependent on maize cultivation for food, could not sustain its large population, leading to social, political, and economic collapse.

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The Chinese navy said it expelled a US Navy ship that entered its territorial waters in the South China Sea, while the US defended the operation as legal under international law.

Chinas navy tracked and warned off the USS Higgins, a US Navy destroyer, after it illegally intruded into the waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal without permission, the Peoples Liberation Army Southern Theater Command said in a statement Wednesday.

The US militarys actions have seriously infringed upon Chinas sovereignty and security and severely undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea, it added.

The US Navy rejected the Chinese claim, describing the operation as a lawful assertion of navigational rights. The mission was meant to challenge restrictions on innocent passage imposed by China and Taiwan, the Navy said. The Higgins exited what the US called the excessive maritime claim area upon completing the operation and continued routine operations in the South China Sea.

Chinas statement about this mission is false, US Seventh Fleet spokesperson Lieutenant Sarah Merrill said in an emailed response to a Bloomberg query. Nothing China says otherwise will deter us.

The South China Sea has long been a lightning rod for tensions between the US and China. Chinas territorial claims to the waters overlap with those of neighboring nations including the Philippines, while the US regularly conducts freedom of navigation operations in the area  moves that often provoke Beijing.

On Monday, two Chinese vessels collided after one of them chased a Philippine Coast Guard ship near the Scarborough Shoal. Beijing blamed Manila for the incident without specifying the damage to its ship.

The operations demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows  regardless of the location of excessive maritime claims and regardless of current events, Merrill added.

Despite the maritime tension, broader relations between the worlds two largest economies have stabilized after both sides extended a trade truce for another 90 days into early November.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
A day after announcing a "criminal emergency" in Washington, US President Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops and assumed control over the US capital.

Approximately 800 National Guard members began arriving in the city on Tuesday following a White House directive that placed the citys police department under federal authority. Under the law, Trump is permitted to oversee the DC police for up to 30 days, AP reported.

However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated the federal control might be extended, pending further review and reassessment by authorities.

Extending federal control beyond that time would require Congressional approval, which would likely be tough to achieve in the face of Democratic resistance.

About 850 officers and agents fanned out across Washington on Monday and arrested 23 people overnight, Leavitt said. The charges, she said, included homicide, drunk driving, gun and drug crimes and subway fare evasion.

The US Park Police also removed 70 homeless encampments over the last five months, she said. People who were living in them can leave, go to a homeless shelter or go into drug addiction treatment, Leavitt said. Those who refuse could face fines or jail time.

The city and Trump have had a bumpy relationship While Trump invokes his plan by saying that we're going to take our capital back, Bowser and the MPD maintain that violent crime overall in Washington has decreased to a 30-year low after a sharp rise in 2023. Carjackings, for example, dropped about 50% in 2024 and are down again this year. More than half of those arrested, however, are juveniles, and the extent of those punishments is a point of contention for the Trump administration.

Resident Jeraod Tyre, who's lived in Washington for 15 years, said he does see crime slowing down. He's wary of the National Guard troops, who don't have the same local knowledge as the city's regular police force. "I feel safe walking through the city every day. The police are doing a mighty fine job, he said.

Bowser, a Democrat, spent much of Trump's first term in office openly sparring with the Republican president. She fended off his initial plans for a military parade through the streets and stood in public opposition when he called in a multi-agency flood of federal law enforcement to confront anti-police brutality protesters in summer 2020. She later had the words Black Lives Matter painted in giant yellow letters on the street about a block from the White House.

In Trump's second term, backed by Republican control of both houses of Congress, Bowser has walked a public tightrope for months, emphasising common ground with the Trump administration on issues such as the successful effort to bring the NFL's Washington Commanders back to the District of Columbia.

She watched with open concern for the city streets as Trump finally got his military parade this summer. Her decision to dismantle Black Lives Matter Plaza earlier this year served as a neat metaphor for just how much the power dynamics between the two executives had evolved.

Now that fraught relationship enters uncharted territory as Trump has followed through on months of what many DC officials had quietly hoped were empty threats. The new standoff has cast Bowser in a sympathetic light, even among her longtime critics. It's a power play and we're an easy target, said Clinique Chapman, CEO of the DC Justice Lab and a frequent Bowser critic.

Trump is the first president to use the law's Section 740 to take over Washingtons police for up to 30 days during times of emergency.

For Trump, the effort to take over public safety in DC reflects an escalation of his aggressive approach to law enforcement. The District of Columbias status as a congressionally established federal district gives him a unique opportunity to push his tough-on-crime agenda, though he has not proposed solutions to the root causes of homelessness or crime, AP reported.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United States next month, a report said on Wednesday. But the government is yet to take a final call on the scheduled trip, another report said,

While Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York during the visit, there are chances that he might meet US President Donald Trump, too, the report said.

Also Read | China welcomes PM Narendra Modi's planned visit to attend Tianjin Summit of SCO

The meeting with President Trump, which is not yet official, is aimed at ironing out trade issues and arriving at a common ground on tariffs, the Indian Express said in the report.

Narendra Modi and Donald Trump met last in February 2025 when the Indian Prime Minister visited the US.

According to reports, preparations for PM Modis visit are underway and may be finalised by the end of August.

Narendra Modi's likely visit to the US assumes significance since it comes at a time when the ties between India and the US have been impacted in recent months after Trump claimed to have brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan  a claim denied by New Delhi.

Also Read | National Guard takes control of Washington DC - What we know so far

The US imposed 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods last month and increased them to 50 per cent on the import of Russian oil. The government has said that the negotiations are underway on both fronts on the tariff issue.

UNGA meet in September The 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 80) will take place in New York City from 9 to 23, 2025 September. The High-Level General Debate will be held from 23 to 27 September, concluding on 29 September. This annual gathering brings together leaders from all 193 UN member states to address global challenges and collaborate on solutions.

The provisional list of speakers for the high-level debate at the upcoming session of the General Assembly states Indias head of government is expected to address the session on the morning of September 26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the last few days.

The meeting with President Trump aims to iron out issues on trade and arrive at a common ground on tariffs.

Zelensky also indicated after Monday's phone call with PM Narendra Modi that the two leaders agreed to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly.
The United States has praised Pakistan role in curbing terrorist groups both regionally and globally. Washington also conveyed condolences over the lives lost in recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan. On Tuesday, both countries issued a joint statement after the Pakistan-US Counter-Terrorism Dialogue in Islamabad where the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Special Secretary for the United Nations, Nabeel Munir, and US Department of State Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory D LoGerfo, a US Department of State press release said.

The joint statement said, "The United States applauded Pakistan's continued successes to contain terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world." Also Read | US dedicates time to stopping wars, says Marco Rubio; claims Trump got involved directly in India-Pak conflict

"Furthermore, the United States expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the barbaric Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar," it added.

During the dialogue, both delegations also emphasized the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes.

The statement also said that both the United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their intention to work closely in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to promote effective and enduring approaches to counterterrorism.

Reaffirming the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the United States of America, both sides emphasized that sustained and structured engagement remains vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability, it read.
The White House is likely to launch a review of the Smithsonian Institutions exhibitions, content, and operations ahead of the United States 250th anniversary next year, aiming to ensure the museums reflect President Donald Trumps vision of American history, a White House official told ABC News.

White House wrote to Lonnie Bunch, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, saying it wants the museums "reflect the unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story."

"Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," officials will be leading a comprehensive internal review of selected Smithsonian museums and exhibitions. This initiative aims to ensure alignment with the President's directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions, White House stated considering the executive order from March.

Also Read | National Guard takes control of Washington DC - What we know so far

'Smithsonian's work grounded in deep commitment to scholarly excellence' The Smithsonian Institution responded saying: "The Smithsonian's work is grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history. We are reviewing the letter with this commitment in mind and will continue to collaborate constructively with the White House, Congress, and our governing Board of Regents."

The evaluation will focus on multiple core aspects, including a review of materials presented to the public like exhibition narratives, online platforms, and social media to assess tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals.

The order, signed on March 27, requires the removal of "improper ideology" from both Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo.

Moreover, it will explore how curatorial decisions are made, analyse both ongoing and upcoming exhibitions, assess the utilisation of current resources and collections, and support the creation of consistent curatorial guidelines that reflect the Smithsonian's original mission.

Also Read | Ukraine president Zelensky rejects Putins demand to withdraw from Donetsk
United States President Donald Trump has placed the Washington DC, police department under federal control and deployed 800 National Guard troops in the national capital. The National Guard has been deployed in Washington DC to make the US capital safer  but who exactly are they, and how will they work to keep DC secure?

WHO ARE THE NATIONAL GUARD? The United States National Guard  consisting of the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard  with over 430,000 civilian soldiers, is a unique branch of the US armed forces. The power to order deployment of the National Guard rests both with state governors and the President.

Evolving from colonial militias into a modern, well-equipped force, it responds to domestic crises like natural disasters, pandemics, protests, and border challenges, while also supporting overseas missions in places such as Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Middle East.

While it is mostly called to respond to state-level emergencies, the National Guard has also been called to enforce the law. Also Read | TV host Rachel Maddow rips into Trump, says it's not a crime, he enjoys using force

The DC National Guard is primarily under federal control.

Declaring a public safety emergency, Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of the National Guard to support local and federal law enforcement in Washington, DC.

WHAT WILL NATIONAL GUARD DO IN WASHINGTON? According to the reports, the National Guard has been tasked with cracking down on crime and homelessness in Washington, DC.

The Army said in a statement that out of the 800, at least 100-200 troops would help the law enforcement at any given time. Like Los Angeles, the National Guard would be assisting federal agents.

A White House official said, Currently, the National Guard is being deployed to protect federal assets, provide a safe environment for law enforcement officers to make arrests and deter violent crime with a visible law enforcement presence."

WHY DID TRUMP DEPLOY NATIONAL GUARD IN WASHINGTON? Donald Trump last week said that he was considering ways to take control of Washington, claiming there was a rise in crimes and the city was unsafe. The claims came after a former employee of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was assaulted in the city.

Trump also cited the rising number of homeless in Washington, DC  often escalating his rhetoric before the deployment of the National Guard.

On Sunday, Trump wrote on Truth Social, The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY. We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital. The Criminals, you don't have to move out. We're going to put you in jail where you belong.

The US President has also cited a recent assault on a federal staffer and viral videos of youth crime to argue that the national capital was in crisis.

WASHINGTON MAYOR PUSHES BACK The Democratic mayor of Washington, Muriel Bowser, rebutted Trump's claims, saying the city is not experiencing a crime spike and highlighting that violent crime has fallen to a 30-year low. Trump called Bowser a good person who has tried, but said she's been given many chances while crime numbers continue to worsen.
An Indian man in Ireland's Dublin was reportedly attacked by a group of teenagers in the city's Fairview Park over the weekend. The man alleged that one of the youths rode up on an electric scooter and suddenly kicked him in the stomach, the first blow in what soon turned into a frightening ordeal, reported The Journal.

The Indian man said he is planning to return to India following the assault.

The latest incident marks the fourth racist attack in Dublin within a month, and also comes after President Michael D Higgins recently condemned the series of attacks on members of the Indian community.

President Higgins had described the attacks as despicable and also expressed a deep sense of gratitude" for the Indian community.

How the Indian man was attacked Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Indian man  who got eight stitches following the brutal assault  said one of the teenagers in the group took his metal water bottle and hit him above the eye, causing a deep cut triggering heavy bleeding.

The man said he was walking home from Fairview Park when a teenager on an electric scooter rode up and kicked him in the stomach. As he tried to walk away, two more youths joined in, punching and hitting him. He fell to the ground, where the group continued to kick and punch him, reported The Journal.

Also Read | Amid racist attacks in Ireland, man says Indians must adapt to local culture

He further told the outlet that many of his friends are even scared to go outside in the aftermath of the attacks.

Racist attacks in Ireland's Dublin Ireland's Dublin has witnessed a series of racist attacks in recent days. The latest attack on the Indian man marks the fourth such incident within a span of a month.

Earlier this month, a six-year-old Indian-origin girl was playing outside her house in Waterford City in southeast Ireland when a gang of children aged 12 to 14 attacked her, calling her "dirty" and asking her to go back to India". 2. On August 10, a 51-year-old Indian-origin man was brutally assaulted and robbed, while on his way to work. According to an Irish Mirror report, the victim, Laxman Das, has lived in Ireland for 22 years and is an Irish citizen. Das, a father of two, is a sous chef at the Anantara The Marker hotel in Dublin.

Also Read | India warns nationals in Ireland to stay vigilant over surge in hate crimes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told i24 News that he acknowledges he is on a historic and spiritual mission and expressed strong attachment to the vision of a Greater Israel, a concept that includes a Palestinian state, and even parts of present-day Jordan and Egypt.

According to a report by Time of Israel, during the interview, host Sharon Gal, who previously served briefly as a right-wing member of the Knesset, presented Netanyahu with an amulet featuring what he described as a map of the Promised Land.

When asked if he feels a connection to the vision of a Greater Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded, Very much.

Greater Israel The term Greater Israel gained prominence after the Six-Day War in June 1967, when Israel captured East Jerusalem, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, the Sinai Peninsula, and the Golan Heights. It was used to describe Israel along with these newly occupied territories.

Historically, the phrase also traces back to early Zionist thought, including figures like Ze'ev Jabotinsky, an ideological forebear of Prime Minister Netanyahu and his Likud party.

In that context, Greater Israel referred to a broader territory encompassing present-day Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, and Jordan, reflecting a more expansive nationalist vision that continues to influence parts of Israeli political discourse today.

Israel-Gaza war Israel's offensive has killed at least 61,430 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry, figures the United Nations deems reliable.

Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, which triggered the war, resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Forty-nine of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas are still held in Gaza, including 27, the Israeli military says, who are dead.

United Nations agencies have warned that famine was unfolding in Gaza, with Israel severely restricting the entry of aid. Images of sick and emaciated Palestinian children have drawn international outrage.

The allegation has been denied by Israel. There is no starvation in Gaza, Netanyahu said last month.

On Tuesday, Gaza's health ministry said that 89 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli fire in the past 24 hours, Reuters reported.
A 19-year-old American pilot and social media influencer has been stranded in Antarctica since June after allegedly landing his small aircraft in Chilean territory without permission.

According to The Independent, Ethan Guo was on a solo mission to fly across all seven continents to raise $1 million for cancer research when his journey came to an abrupt stop. Chilean authorities accuse him of filing a false flight plan and breaching multiple national and international rules regulating entry into Antarctica and the approved travel routes.

Chilean prosecutor Cristian Cristoso alleged that Guo knowingly submitted misleading flight details, while his legal team claims he encountered unexpected challenges during the flight. After being charged, he was told to remain within Chilean territory. Severe winter weather in the Southern Hemisphere meant no flights were available, leaving him at a military base for more than six weeks.

On August 11, a judge dropped the charges after Guo agreed to donate $30,000 to a childrens cancer foundation within 30 days. However, he must also cover all expenses for his stay at the military facility, the security of his aircraft, and his return trip. Once weather conditions allow him to leave, he will be barred from re-entering Chile for three years.

Who Is Ethan Guo? Ethan Guo is a 19-year-old Asian-American pilot with more than 1.4 million Instagram followers, where he documents his global travels. He began flying at 13, earned his private pilots licence at 17, and holds an IFR rating, allowing him to operate using only instruments. To date, he has logged over 700 flight hours, crossed the Atlantic three times, and visited all 48 contiguous US states. His journey so far has taken him to six continents-- North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia-- with stops at hospitals to promote cancer awareness.

Guo funds his mission through sponsorships, media collaborations, and social media content. He was inspired to take on this challenge after his cousin was diagnosed with cancer in 2021.
On the heels of news of layoffs at an Indian information technology (IT) behemoth that may be attributed to artificial intelligence (AI), a private members bill to protect employees from the use of AI in the workplace has been presented in the Rajya Sabha by Trinamool Congress member Mausam Noor.

This Artificial Intelligence (Protection of Rights of Employees) Bill is narrower in scope than its European counterpart, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, which intends to cover AI risks in general. The Indian private members bill, in contrast, focuses squarely on employee rights in the workplace.

Also Read: The AI revolution could leave women even further behind. Here's how.

To understand the need for such legislation, look no further than US tech giants. Amazon, for example, has been developing machine learning algorithms since 2014 for warehouse logistics, pricing decisions, etc. One of these works as a recruitment tool by scoring candidates on a scale of one to five stars and then picking the top resume from the hundreds received for every Amazon job.

In 2015, the company discovered that its algorithm favoured male candidates, as it had been trained on successful resumes of the preceding 10 years, which were mostly of male applicants. The algorithm had learnt that male candidates were preferred. Resumes of women with pursuits such as chess or debate were given an even more unfavourable rating. Although Amazon initially tried to amend its algorithm, it ultimately abandoned the project.

The Indian bill attempts to tackle this problem by proposing the mitigation of biases in AI algorithms that may adversely affect employees rights or opportunities by regular conduct of performance audits and impact assessment."

Also Read: Outrage over AI is pointless if were clueless about AI models

Additionally, it attempts to replicate the EUs General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), whose Article 22 provides that the data subject shall have the right not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated processing, including profiling, which produces legal effects concerning him or her or similarly significantly affects him or her." In this context, the Indian bills text requires consent to be obtained from an employee whose data is to be utilized.

While it is a step in the right direction, the bill in its current form faces challenges.

Audit and overview: The Indian bill mandates organizations to conduct an Equality Impact Assessment at five-year intervals to ensure fairness, non-discrimination, and compliance with established rules and regulations." A five-year period in the context of AI development is like an eternity. The EUs AI Act requires the registration of any high risk AI system to increase transparency. Such timely registration in India would be a good idea.

Also Read: AI didnt take the job. It changed what the job is.

Consent: Indias Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA) emphasizes consent as the primary enabler of personal data processing. The Trinamool members AI bill too mandates explicit consent in writing from employees who would be affected by an AI algorithm. But achieving explicit consent in a country as economically and educationally diverse as India would pose employers a challenge. While the DPDPA suggests the use of consent managers to ensure consensual flow of personal data between data subjects and fiduciaries, how employers could ensure explicit and continued consent remains unclear.

Employer versus employee rights: The DPDPA grants employers the right to process employee data for legitimate uses: for the purposes of employment or those related to safeguarding the employer from loss or liability, such as prevention of corporate espionage, maintenance of confidentiality of trade secrets, intellectual property, classified information or provision of any service or benefit sought by a Data Principal who is an employee."

Conversely, the AI bill under discussion requires Indian authorities to protect the rights of employees where they refuse tasks or decisions solely based on AI-generated processes if they feel these violate their rights or ethical standards." It also grants them the right to review high-risk decisions made by AI processes, affording them an opportunity to challenge choices or decisions adversely impacting their employment."

A possible clash is envisaged between the rights of an employer that wants to use employee data and the rights of employees who want such data removed.

Also Read: Devina Mehra: Yes, AI is coming for our jobs; its the old story of new tech

AI implementation for payroll reduction: Perhaps to address concerns around impending layoffs arising from the adoption of AI-based models by Indian businesses, the proposed legislation requires the provision of adequate training and up-skilling opportunities for employees affected by AI implementation" to ensure that they can effectively adapt and engage with the technology." Given that AI models are often inducted by employers to reduce their payroll costs, it would be counter-intuitive to require organizations to incur expenditure on those it may intend to retrench. While well-intended, this clause would result in additional business expenditure.

The AI bill proposed by Mausam Noor, while more narrowly focused than its EU counterpart, attempts to provide a crucial legal foundation for safeguarding employee rights in the face of increasing AI integration in the workplace and aims to address concerns about job security, discrimination and privacy. It also underscores the need for transparent, fair and human-centric AI development and deployment in a relatively labour-intensive economy such as ours.

The author is an independent privacy lawyer.
Spain faces another day of tackling multiple wildfires in several regions across the country, several of which remain out of control due to adverse weather conditions. Authorities are particularly concerned about those affecting the provinces of Ourense, Zamora, and Leon, in the northwest. However, there is also concern about active fires in Caceres, Asturias, and Madrid. So far, the blazes have claimed two lives in Madrid and Leon: a 50-year-old man in Tres Cantos (Madrid) and a 35-year-old man who was volunteering to help extinguish the Molezuelas de la Carballeda fire (affecting the provinces of Zamora and Leon). Thousands of hectares have burned across the country, causing more than 5,000 people to spend Tuesday night evacuated from their homes.

In an interview with radio network Cadena SER, the Minister for Ecological Transition, Sara Aagesen, estimated that 14 forest fires remain active in seven regions. While awaiting clarification of the causes of the outbreaks, Aagesen estimates that several of them were started deliberately: All are under investigation; it is still premature to quantify how many were intentionally caused, but there is a fair intuition about several of them, [about how] they may have been caused due to their virulence and how they have evolved, she indicated.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez warned that the situation remains serious and thanked those working to combat the flames, calling for extreme caution: The fire situation remains serious. Extreme caution is essential, he said on his X profile. Thank you, once again, to those who are working tirelessly to fight the flames, he added, sharing a post from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) warning of the danger of fires in most of Spain despite the likelihood of showers in many areas.

Firefighters tackle a blaze in Losacio, Zamora.  Emilio Fraile Emilio Fraile

Military to join firefighting effort

One of the most complicated fires is the Chandrexa de Queixa fire in Ourense, which has burned more than 3,500 hectares since Friday and to which personnel from the Military Emergency Unit (UME) will be added Wednesday. The situation is also difficult in Leon, where 4,300 people from 23 towns have had to be evacuated due to the Molezuelas de la Carballeda fire, affecting the provinces of Zamora and Leon, in which a volunteer died Tuesday night. In Zamora, a fire is also raging in the locality of Puercas, where six people have been injured, two of whom have been admitted to the ICU, and more than 450 people have been evacuated. Four firefighters were injured in the fires affecting the province of Ourense.

The technical director for extinguishing the forest fire in Molezuelas de la Carballeda, Mar Lejarraga, has predicted a very difficult day in the efforts to control this fire as a result of unstable weather conditions. In statements collected by Europa Press, she pointed out that last nights efforts focused on carrying out direct attacks and technical firefighting with the support of heavy machinery, given the many active points and the presence of very virulent tongues of fire.

In Castilla-La Mancha, a fire in Navalmoralejo is still raging, having spread to to the province of Caceres. Another fire has broken out in Calera y Chozas, forcing the lockdown of 5,000 residents of Alberche del Caudillo and the closure of two roads. Authorities declared the Tarifa fire stabilized last night.

Up to 42 Spanish provinces have active weather warnings for Wednesday for temperatures that could reach 42 degrees Celsius, as well for precipitation and storms, according to Aemet. Specifically, Caceres and Badajoz (Extremadura), Girona and Lleida (Catalonia), Huesca (Aragon), Cadiz, Cordoba, Huelva, Jaen and Seville (Andalusia), and Gran Canaria have an orange warning for high temperatures. However, maximum temperatures are expected to drop in the Iberian Peninsula and the Canary Islands, although they will exceed 35C in most of the southern half of the peninsula, in the northeast, and in parts of the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands. Minimum temperatures will drop in much of the Iberian Peninsula and the archipelagos, while they will rise slightly in the southwest of the mainland and on the northern coasts. Aemet forecasts northerly winds in the Canary Islands and easterly winds in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea, both moderate with likely strong periods. Northerly winds will also be moderate along the Atlantic coast of Galicia. Light winds are forecast for the rest of the Peninsula.

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KYIV, UkrainePresident Trumps face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday will heap pressure on one person not at the table: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zelensky has tried to position himself as the party who was eager for a peace dealsomething Trump has sought to broker since he returned to office this year. Concerns run high in Kyiv that Trump will seek to strike a deal with Putin that will be disadvantageous to Ukraine, or at least be persuaded by Putin that Zelensky is the one in the way of an end to the bloodshed.

Zelensky told reporters Tuesday that he was ready to meet directly with Putina step the Russian leader has refused to takeand offered subtle indications that he could be willing to discuss delicate domestic issues such as territorial concessions. But he also shrugged off the suggestion that a land swap could be part of a cease-fire agreement in the near term, an idea that has recently been floated in calls between various world leaders.

He said he didnt believe that Moscow was prepared to give up territory it currently controls in southern Ukraine in exchange for more territory in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region. Instead, Zelensky said, he believed Russia was asking Ukraine to withdraw from territory it currently holds in exchange for Russia agreeing to a cease-fire.

Zelensky has said for months that he would accept an unconditional interim cease-fire.

In my view, essentially, they are offering simply not to advance any further," Zelensky said of Russia. This is a very conditional exchange."

Ukrainian soldiers and army engineers inspect new fortifications in the Donetsk region of Ukraine.A Ukrainian soldier in a bunker which forms part of the new defensive fortifications built in eastern Ukraine.

Zelenskys comments underscore the difficult position that the coming Trump-Putin meeting has put him in. He is wary of any cease-fire proposal that Putin might offer without Ukraine at the table. At the same time, he must be careful not to provoke Trumps angeras he did during his disastrous trip to Washington in Februaryby appearing not to take peace talks seriously. On Wednesday, Zelensky arrived in Germany, where he will join German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a video call with Trump and other European leaders.

Volodymyr Fesenko, a Kyiv-based political analyst at the independent think tank Penta Center for Political Studies, said the meeting posed several potential risks for Zelensky. Putin will aim to negotiate a cease-fire with Trump with conditions that are favorable to Russia, which Trump could then pressure Ukraine to accept. But just as great a risk, he said, was that Putin would try to turn Trumpwho has shown more sympathy toward his Russian counterpart than other recent presidentsagainst Ukraine and toward Moscow. The U.S. leader might then cut off military or economic support for Kyiv, or lift sanctions on Russia.

Already, in the lead-up to the meeting, Trump halted plans to hit Russia with additional sanctions. In addition, Trump criticized Zelensky earlier this week after the Ukrainian leader initially dismissed the idea of a land swap. I get along with Zelensky, but I disagree with what hes done," Trump said. Very, very severely disagree."

Putins goal in this case is not to end the war, but to form a negative attitude toward Ukraine and Zelensky, to cause a quarrel between Trump and Zelensky," Fesenko said. A real problem has already emergedTrumps irritation with Zelenskys position."

Some Western officials see signals that Putin could be more prepared for serious peace talks than he has been in the past. In a recent discussion with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, Putin didnt mention some of his previous demands, such as the demilitarization of Ukraine or Ukrainian withdrawal from four regions that Russia partly controls and now claims as its own, The Wall Street Journal reported. Instead, according to officials briefed on the discussion, Putin had said that he would be open to a cease-fire if Ukraine withdrew from only its two easternmost regions of Luhansk and Donetsk.

Russia already controls all but a small sliver of the Luhansk region, and some Western officials hope that Russian-held territory in southern Ukraine could be handed back if Kyiv withdraws from the parts of the Donetsk region it still controls.

Though Ukrainians have grown more willing to make concessions to end the war since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, public opinion polls show they remain opposed to giving up territory. A June survey from the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology found 52% of Ukrainians opposed to territorial concessions, with 38% willing to accept territorial losses as part of a peace deal.

Though Zelensky has repeatedly dismissed the idea of territorial concessions, his comments on Tuesday indicated, at the very least, a willingness to discuss it.

I am not ready to discuss it over the phone," he said of the territorial question." These are serious matters to be decided at the leaders level."

So far, Putin has declined to meet directly with Zelensky, who he has tried to paint as an illegitimate leader who shouldnt be recognized.

Zelensky has also, since early in the war, insisted that security guaranteesprovided by the Westmust be part of any peace agreement, since Russia has repeatedly violated earlier cease-fire pacts.

Residents of Dnipro, Ukraine, fled their homes after Russian rockets hit a nearby building in June.

In his comments on Tuesday, he didnt mention membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organizationlong his priority, but one which most analysts say isnt realistic in the short term. Instead, he insisted that Europe would have to play an important role in any peace negotiations. European leaders have been frozen out of the Trump-Putin meeting on Friday, and Zelensky noted that in recent months it is Europenot the U.S.that has taken on most of the cost of helping fund and arm Ukraine.

The presence of Europe in one form or another is very important," Zelensky said. Ultimately no one except Europe is currently providing us with security guarantees. Even financiallyfunding the needs of our army, which is a security guarantee."

Write to Ian Lovett at ian.lovett@wsj.com
Well past midnight on 12 August, celebrations erupted at the Constitution Club  just a few blocks from the Parliament complex  where the Monsoon Session was adjourned only hours earlier for the Independence Day break.

Amid his supporters chanting victory slogans, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters he had won the Constitution Clubs secretary (administration) post by over achundred votes.

Also Read | Rajiv Pratap Rudy defeats Sanjeev Balyan in Constitution Club elections

"It's a beautiful victory for all the parliamentarians and all those who came to vote and endorse the relentless effort of the team for the last two decades... It's a beautiful experience," Rudy said.

Why was it different this time? The elections are usually a routine affair, with Rudy winning almost uncontested for the last 25 years. This year, too, Rudy retained his dominance in the 12 August polls, though not without facing a challenge from within his own party, the BJP.

I may have won by more than 100 votes. And if that is multiplied by 1000 voters, then the number goes up to 1 lakh. This is my panel's victory... Everyone rose from their party and cast their vote. My panel had people from the Congress, SP, TMC and independent MPs. I got the result of my efforts in the last two decades, Rudy said.

The BJP vs BJP battle Rudy faced former Union Minister Sanjeev Balyan for the elections to the secretary (administration) post in what many termed as a BJP vs BJP battle.

Rudy, the incumbent Secretary (Administration) Rudy is a fifth-term Lok Sabha MP, while Balyan is a two-term former Lok Sabha MP

Over 707 valid votes were cast out of the total electors of 1,295 current and former MPs. Rudy got 391, and his opponent, Balyan, got 291, making it one of the highest turnouts for the club's office-bearers election.

The election drew participation from marquee members, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah from the BJP and Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party Sonia Gandhi.

Other prominent leaders who voted in the elections included BJP chief JP Nadda and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Several Union ministers, including Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju, and governors like Shiv Pratap Shukla of Himachal Pradesh, voted as contestants lobbied intensively to rally their supporters.

Campaigner Nishikant Dubey Rudy used to be a dominant presence. But this year, Balyan, spurred by the support from some BJP leaders, with Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey being the most visible campaigner, decided to test the Bihar leader's strength.

With two candidates from their party in the fray, the BJP leaders found themselves split in their choice. Some favoured Rudy, others backed Balyan. It is believed that members affiliated with the opposition party largely backed Rudy. The grapevine has it that Congress and the Samajwadi Party had decided to support Rudy.

Also Read | BJP's Nishikant Dubey rejects Tamil Nadu MPs request to speak in English in LS

A few governing council posts, like the secretary (sports) and secretary (culture) were decided without a contest. Congress MP Rajiv Shukla became the secretary (sports) while DMK MP Tiruchi Siva became the secretary (culture) of the club.

Rudy vs Balyan Battle

At the helm for over two decades, Rudy, the BJP from Saran in Bihar, has been widely credited with transforming the once dilapidated club into a modernised hub. But this year, the other group that challenged him thought he had been there for too long without facing any opposition, according to a recent report in Newslaundary.

Before the polling, TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee reportedly told Rudy that he would not vote for him. Banerjee told Newslaundry that the reason was Mahua Moitras support for Rudy. The two TMC leaders had a public spat recently.

Although Rudy and Balyan were both former Union ministers, they may have been from the same party, but they presented two contrasting personalities drawn from different social milieus.

Rudy, a commercial pilot, is a suave leader who is at home with social elites, mixing his urbane personality effortlessly with his background as a savvy parliamentarian who has got the better of the likes of Rabri Devi and her daughter Rohini Acharya in Lok Sabha elections from Saran.

Balyan, who is from western Uttar Pradesh, was a representative of rural sensibilities and grassroots ruggedness. Warm and upfront, he had his share of close friends in the BJP and outside.

Balyan lost the 2024 election from Muzaffarnagar, but he has seemingly returned to Delhis public circle, with backing from many in the BJPs top brass.

The fact that Rudy is a Thakur and his rival a Jat gave the contest an expected caste angle, but personal ties and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring played a big role in the final outcome.

A report in news agency PTI said Rudy was on familiar turf, and his long ties with the members proved decisive.

While Rudy had listed the addition of numerous facilities to the club and its modernisation under his tenure to seek another term, Balyan was rooting for a change. He claimed that the club should focus on catering to MPs and former MPs and not "outsiders" like IAS and IPS officers.

The Lok Sabha Speaker is the club's ex officio president, but the Secretary plays a crucial role in the facility's executive functioning.

The Constitution Club The club was formed in 1947 as an informal socialising place for members of the Constituent Assembly.

It is located on Rafi Marg, behind the Reserve Bank of India, in the Sansad Marg Area of New Delhi. Before 1965, when it was inaugurated on its present Rafi Marg address by then-President S Radhakrishnan, the club used to be on Curzon Road, now called Kasturba Gandhi Road.

The club has two restaurantsArticle 21 for the general public and The Preamble for members. It also has a coffee house, health centre, spa, unisex salon, billiards room, badminton court, leisure lounges, and conference facilities on its premises.

The club also has an Executive Body, including Secretaries for Administration, Sports, and Culture, and other Executive Members.

Over the years, the club has emerged as a popular venue for political meetings, art and craft exhibitions, functions, conferences and meetings.
European leaders urged Donald Trump to press Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire and a meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskiy when he sits down with the Russian president on Friday.

French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking to reporters after a call with Trump and other European leaders, said that any decision on territorial concessions will need to be made by Ukraine.

Trump was very clear on the fact that the US wants to obtain a ceasefire at this meeting in Alaska, he told reporters in Bregancon, France, on Wednesday. There are no serious territorial exchange plans on the table today.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who also was on the call with the US leader, reiterated that Ukraine would need to be involved in any decisions.

We have made it clear that Ukraine will be at the table as soon as there is a follow-up meeting, Merz told reporters. President Trump wants to make a ceasefire a priority.

Trump joined European leaders including from Germany, France and Italy as well as Zelenskiy and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for the call.

The discussions came after days of intense diplomacy between US, European and Ukrainian officials ahead of Trumps meeting with Putin scheduled for Friday in Alaska.

Moscow is demanding that Ukraine cede its entire eastern Donbas region to Russia as well as Crimea, which his forces illegally annexed in 2014, as a condition to unlock a ceasefire and enter negotiations over a lasting settlement, Bloomberg previously reported.

Such an outcome would require Kyiv to give up parts of the Luhansk and Donetsk provinces still under Ukraines control and hand Russia a victory that its army couldnt achieve militarily for more than a decade.

Zelenskiy told reporters earlier this week that he wont cede Donbas, adding that the Kremlin could use it as a launchpad for a future new offensive. European nations have made clear to the US that they will not formally recognize territory illegally occupied by Russia.

Kyiv and its allies argue that a truce along the current battle-lines should be the first step toward formal negotiations. European leaders also stressed to Trump that Ukraine needs robust security guarantees to ensure that any deal holds.

If there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and we Europeans should and must increase the pressure, Merz said. President Trump is aware of this position and largely shares it.

Trump hasnt implemented any direct measures against Moscow so far, though he doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% last week for its purchases of Russian oil, sparking outrage in New Delhi. He threatened to ramp up economic pressure on Moscow unless Putin agreed to a ceasefire by last Friday. That deadline passed without any further action after the two sides announced their first summit meeting since Trumps return to the White House in January.

European leaders also said that Trump, Putin and Zelenskiy could aim to formalize a ceasefire alongside an agreement on the core parameters for peace negotiations at a trilateral meeting, according to people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. .

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Vladimir Putin is heading to Fridays planned summit with Donald Trump confident that Russia is in a dominant position on the battlefield as his military advances in Ukraine.

Thats likely to strengthen his determination to secure major territorial concessions when the Russian and US presidents meet in Alaska in return for a ceasefire that Putin has so far been reluctant to concede to Trump.

Russian forces broke through Ukrainian defenses in the eastern Donetsk region around villages leading to the town of Dobropillya, according to the Deep State monitoring platform, which maintains cooperation with Ukraines Defense Ministry. Theyre consolidating positions and probing for weak points in defenses to try to reach the road linking the town and the strategic city of Kramatorsk, it said Monday in a post on Telegram.

Putin and Trump are set to meet as Russias army grinds out gains in a summer campaign thats putting Ukrainian defenses under mounting pressure, so far without achieving a decisive advance. The Russian president has repeatedly rejected calls from Trump, Ukraine and European leaders to agree to a ceasefire to allow for negotiations on a peace deal to end the full-scale invasion thats now in its fourth year.

Putin has much stronger cards to play than his opponents, said Marina Miron, a military researcher at the Defence Studies Department at Kings College London. The Russian army is on the offensive, and they are dictating the rules.

Only a few lightly armed Russians bypassed defenses around Dobropillya, and Ukraine is working to restore control, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told reporters on Tuesday. Moscow wants to create the impression that Russias advancing and Ukraines losing ahead of the Alaska summit, he said.

Still, Ukrainian forces face a difficult situation in the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, though theyve had successes in pushing back Russian troops in Luhansk and in the northern Sumy region, Zelenskiy said. Russia may be relocating as many as 30,000 experienced combat troops from Sumy toward the frontlines in the Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions in preparation for an offensive by the end of this month, he said.

Trump has expressed disappointment at Putins intransigence following six phone calls this year. He threatened to impose secondary tariffs on countries buying Russian oil unless the Kremlin agreed to a truce by last Friday. But after talks in Moscow last week between Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff, the two sides announced their first summit meeting since Trumps return to the White House in January.

Zelenskiy and European allies plan a call with Trump on Wednesday, amid fears the US leader may concede too much to Putin in return for a deal to halt the fighting.

While Trumps pushing for Russia to end the war, Putin wants Kyiv to withdraw its forces fully from the Donetsk and neighboring Luhansk regions of eastern Ukraine before hell agree to any truce. That would hand his army a victory in Ukraines so-called Donbas area that its been unable to achieve on the battlefield since Russia first incited fighting there in 2014.

US and Russian officials have also been discussing a deal that would halt the war along current battle lines, leaving Russia in control of the parts of Ukraines Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions that it currently occupies, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine wont cede any of its territory to Russia. Territorial issues cant be separated from security guarantees for his country because for Russians, Donbas is a bridgehead for a future new offensive, he said.

Trump told reporters on Monday that there may be some changes in land as part of an agreement. Were going to change the lines, the battle lines, he said.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also said at the weekend that territory would have to be on the table along with security guarantees for Ukraine. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas pushed back on Monday, saying we should not even discuss any concessions with Putin until Russia agrees to a full and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine.

Conceding Putins demand for territory could deliver some of the most fortified Ukrainian positions in Donetsk and Luhansk to Russia while allowing him to avoid potentially massive troop losses from months of attritional warfare.

Deepening manpower shortages are adding to stresses on Ukraines defensive lines.

Ukraine does not have enough soldiers and infantry, and thats clearly the most significant challenge, said Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Philadelphia-based Foreign Policy Research Institute, who has recently visited Ukraines frontlines. The question here is really about sustainability if the war were to extend into 2026 and beyond, he said.

While the front line isnt in danger of collapse, Russian pressure is mounting and Moscows use of its own offensive line of drones known as Rubicon has narrowed Ukraines advantage in this field, Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said in a July 31 assessment on social media following a visit to the front.

Russian forces continue to adapt, and Ukraine must find ways to stay ahead, he said.

Russia may be focusing on its advance toward Dobropillya to set informational conditions ahead of the summit with Trump, according to the US-based Institute for the Study of War. Putin is attempting to frame the seizure of the Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions as inevitable to push Ukraine and the West to capitulate to Kremlin demands, it said in an Aug. 11 assessment.

Even a failure to reach an agreement in Alaska may serve Putins interest if it buys him time to continue his offensive while persuading Trump to delay the threatened US secondary tariffs as talks continue on a potential settlement.

Russian forces have captured some 2,400 square kilometers in Ukraine so far this year, about 0.4% of the countrys territory, according to Bloomberg estimates based on Deep State mapping data.

Five key factors we assess are critical to determining the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war, such as financial power, manpower, firepower, morale and territorial control, indicate that Russias advantage continues to grow, said Alex Kokcharov, Bloomberg Geoeconomics analyst. Moscow probably believes that it has a significant advantage over Ukraine, and that time is on its side.

With assistance from Daryna Krasnolutska.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
POCO has launched its latest addition to the affordable smartphone market, the POCO M7 Plus 5G, which features a 7000mAh silicon carbon battery and a 6.9-inch Full HD+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The device is positioned as a budget-friendly option priced sub- 15,000 price point.

POCO M7 Plus 5G: Pricing in India The POCO M7 Plus 5G will be available exclusively on Flipkart starting 19 August at 12 noon. The introductory price is set at 12,999 for the 6GB+128GB variant and 13,999 for the 8GB+128GB variant. Launch promotions include an instant 1,000 discount for users paying with HDFC, SBI, or ICICI Bank cards, as well as an exchange bonus of up to 1,000 for eligible devices. These offers are valid for a limited period.

POCO M7 Plus 5G: Specifications and features The POCO M7 Plus 5G is equipped with the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 processor and offers up to 16GB of Turbo RAM, providing sufficient capacity for multitasking and high-performance applications. Its 144Hz adaptive refresh rate is designed to enhance visual fluidity.

Also Read | Poco M7 Plus 5G confirmed to launch in India on 13 August: All we know so far

A key feature of the M7 Plus 5G is its 7000mAh battery, which the company claims is engineered for up to 1,600 charge cycles and retains up to 80 per cent of its original capacity even after four years of use. The smartphone also supports 18W reverse charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices.
Russian hackers are likely behind suspected sabotage at a dam in Norway in April that affected water flows, police officials told Norwegian media on Wednesday.

The director of the Norwegian Police Security Service, Beate Gangas, said cyberattacks are increasingly being carried out against Western nations to stoke fear and unrest.

The Associated Press has plotted more than 70 incidents on a map tracking a campaign of disruption across Europe blamed on Russia, which Western officials have described as reckless. Since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Western officials have accused Russia and its proxies of staging dozens of attacks and other incidents, ranging from vandalism to arson and attempted assassination.

Intelligence officials told the that the campaign is becoming more violent.

During the April incident, hackers gained access to a digital system which remotely controls one of the dam's valves and opened it to increase the water flow, NRK said. The valve was open for around four hours but did not pose a danger to the surrounding area, NRK reported.

A three-minute long video showing the dam's control panel and a mark identifying a pro-Russian cybercriminal group was published on Telegram in April, police attorney Terje Nedreb Michelsen told NRK.

Similar videos have previously circulated on social media, but the announcement by Norwegian police marked the first time since 2022 that officials have publicly suggested pro-Russian hackers may have successfully targeted critical water infrastructure in Europe.

Gangas told NRK that state actors typically use other groups to hack into facilities to show look what we can do if we want to," before bragging about it afterwards.

She spoke Wednesday alongside the head of Norways intelligence agency at a briefing titled: Hybrid attacks against Norway: are we at war?

NRK said Gangas warned such activity is only likely to increase in Norway and other European countries.
There will be a great atmosphere and lots of 'lightning fast' sheep shearing skills on display in Lisryan this weekend when dozens of people will compete for top honours in aid of a very worthy cause.



Caillum Kelly is on the organising committee for the second annual speed shear competition in aid of The Gavin Glynn Foundation at The Crossroads Inn on Saturday, August 16.

Read more: A 'Lottie' success! Longford woman celebrating as her mare crowned overall champion horse



Caillum said there will be a host of entertainment with musical acts such as DJ Duggy B, Brian Reynolds, Eamon ONeil, and 4 Degrees West set to perform and a barbeque and raffle for big prizes in the beer garden.



"It will be sort of a family day out and we will have a barbeque, live music, and then we'll have a speech and the raffles.



"It's the best atmosphere, the shearing will start at around 4pm and it's a speed shear competition with roughly between 40 and 50 competing."



Caillum is busy at this time of the year as a sheep shearer, switching over to his main job as a fencing contractor when the season ends.



"We had close to 400 people last year and we'd be expecting a bit more this year.



"They have put on extensions in the pub and made it bigger in the beer garden area," he added.



The speed shearing of sheep is a particularly demanding skill that requires physical endurance, and intense training.



Shearers must have the strength and stamina to maintain a working rhythm over long hours.



Caillum has been tasked with getting the message out about the event and he said there is excitement ahead of the event.



"People are looking forward to it and we have good prize money and stuff as well for the competition.



We pick a charity every year and we try to raise a bit of money for them and this time it's The Gavin Glynn Foundation."



Caillum said the Wicklow-based organisation does fantastic work and they are a worthy beneficiary of funding.



The Gavin Glynn Foundation helps families of children with cancer in Ireland travel overseas for treatment when its not available at home.



Gavin was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer known as Rhabdomyosarcoma in October 2011 at the age of 18 months old.



The young boy, from Greystones, county Wicklow, received prominence nationally when a fundraising campaign for specialist treatment in the US raised 350,000 in a single week.



However, after a brave battle the much-loved young boy passed away on October 21, 2014, surrounded by his family.



The Gavin Glynn Foundation covers flights, accommodation, and support  so families can focus on what matters most: their childs health and hope.



There is a prize fund of 2,000 with the entry fee for the 'Open' category 30 with a first prize of 800, a prize of 300 for the runner-up and 100 for third place.



The entry fee for the 'Senior' section is 20 with a top prize of 300 with additional smaller prizes and the entry fee for the 'Junior' category is also 20 with a first prize on offer of 150 and further lower prizes.

Read more: Longford Pedigree Irish Belgian Blue breeder thrilled with success at Ossory Show



The speed shear competition in The Crossroads Inn, Lisryan (Eircode N39 R1X8) in aid of The Gavin Glynn Foundation takes place this Saturday starting at 4pm.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: August 24 2025

This very unique extravaganza is the perfect way for adults and families to get out and spend a few hours while perusing the many fine wares that are available for purchase.

Kaleidoscope Gem Shows is proud to present the next installment of the Freeport Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show on August 23-24. The extremely popular and exciting event  which takes place three times each and every year  is drawing an ever-growing number of both vendors and attendees from all over the United States at its long-time venue, the Freeport Recreation Center.

Catering to discerning collectors and enthusiasts of beautiful rocks and jewelry  as well as those looking for unique gifts for themselves or their loved ones  the Freeport Gem, Mineral, & Jewelry Show boasts a plethora of lovely items for sale by its many talented vendors, ranging from fine gold and silver jewelry, to estate pieces, minerals and fossils from around the world. There are also exciting varieties of beads and much, much more, offered by some of the most well-established names in the field with decades of experience.

This very unique extravaganza is the perfect way for adults and families to get out and spend a few hours while perusing the many fine wares that are available for purchase. According to event promoter Evelyn Gose, the show is held three times per year; in addition to the August show, there are also events held in April and October as well.

Each and every year, Gose said that she notes an increasingly larger and larger percentage of the vendors  as well as the attendees  are not just coming from all over Long Island, but from multiple states along the east coast as well. Obviously, word about the Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show is spreading, and its allure is encouraging more and more people to make the trip in order to check it out.

The show is continuing to expand and its really gaining a fan following. We draw both vendors and attendees not only from all over Long Island, New York City, Staten Island, and Buffalo, but also from out-of-state from places such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maine, Florida, and more, Gose said. So, we're really starting to attract a diverse array of people with different interests who are willing to travel a significant distance to attend the show. Theyre making longer and longer trips to come here, and were very excited and appreciative of it.

In addition to the many fine items for sale, another big draw of the Freeport Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show is how approachable the vendors themselves are; many guests have noted that they are more than happy to speak with them at length about the ins-and-outs of their craft and answer any questions that may arise, making the experience of attending the show not only interesting in an artistic sense, but an educational one as well.

I think a really attractive aspect of the show is that you get that one-on-one interaction with the vendors, which you dont get with online shopping, Gose said. Every mineral is different, so attending and actually seeing all of these displays in person and speaking with the vendors is a good thing. It can really help somebody find the item that's exactly what they were looking for, or that they didnt even know they wanted.

Another fun part of the Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show are the big prize giveaways that take place throughout both days. When attendees first walk in through the door, they are presented with a white slip of paper that they need to fill out; that piece of paper is then put into a bag, and every hour two lucky winners are drawn from that bag and are each presented with a $10 gift certificate for use with any of the events vendors.

But thats not all- the excitement culminates with a grand prize drawing at the end of each day! Taking place on both Saturday and Sunday  one-half hour before the show ends  yet another white slip is drawn from the bag, and one very fortunate person each day is presented with a beautiful mineral from by one of the events vendors; attendees who have won an hourly gift certificate earlier in the day are still eligible to claim the grand prize as well.

And finally, this end-of-summer event is just a great way to get out of the house  and out of the balmy weather  and enjoy some refreshing air conditioning for a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.

The Freeport Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show will be held this upcoming Saturday, August 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, August 24, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Freeport Recreation Center at 130 East Merrick Road in Freeport, NY. Admission is $6.00 for adults and children under 12 free with an adult, and if you show the cashier at the door this article, youll get $1.00 off your admission fee! All admission proceeds go to the Recreation Center to support the various programs that they offer to the community throughout the year.

We really want to thank our customers, as well as the Recreation Center for supporting us all these yearsthe admissions to the show help to support the Rec Center, which has done a lot of good things for the community over the years, and were very happy to be able to help support their efforts, Gose said. Its a wonderful feeling as people stop by when leaving and say, this was great. Thank you. That makes all the effort put into the show more than worth it.

To find out more, please visit http://www.kaleidoscopegemshows.com.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: August 13 2025

Northwells Street Medicine collaboration with Long Island Coalition for the Homeless supplies health care in the field, helps 11 individuals receive long-term housing.

Just beyond the roar of the bustling Long Island Expressway, in an expansive commuter parking lot tucked behind a McDonalds restaurant, Northwell Healths Street Medicine team greets the hazy, humid August morning  and their first patient. They gently rap on the window of the car to stir two dogs and their resilient owner, a Long Islander living on the margins in plain sight and yet whose struggle has been mostly unseen and unheard until now.

Northwells Street Medicine program is a year-old, award-winning collaboration with the nonprofit Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, which aims to raise community health by bringing care to the undomiciled throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. The ultimate goal is getting people off the streets and into stable, long-term housing. There are about 10,000 Long Islanders who experience homelessness each year, an issue thats only being exacerbated by factors such as rising costs coupled with the regions longstanding housing crisis. The undomiciled face health disparities, higher rates of chronic illnesses, along with a range of mental health issues and substance use disorders.

Convening next to her car, the medical team meets with Virginia Collins, 66, who is alone but hardly the only one living at the central Suffolk parking lot. Ms. Collins said she needs follow-up medical care after suffering a stroke only months earlier in Florida, before driving back to her native New York. Unable to secure a place to stay with family and unwilling to part with her pets  a common precondition for living at a shelter  Ms. Collins chooses instead to sleep in her car. Northwells volunteer medical team has paid a wellness visit to Ms. Collins before. They are a familiar and welcome sight. One nurse practitioner checks the patients vitals while another nurse with a laptop updates the electronic medical record and verifies her medications.

All of our patients come through the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, who canvas the region and identify people with health care needs, said Mary Mahoney, NP, vice president of Emergency Management and Clinical Preparedness at Northwell and the lead clinician for the Street Medicine program. We go wherever the need is. These open parking lots tend to be more dangerous than other places, more transient.

In the weeks since their last wellness visit, Ms. Collins has suffered from headaches and hearing loss while mourning the death of one of her dogs. Shes also on edge and wields a large kitchen knife after a man aggressively propositioned her for sex. The commuter lot is a known hotspot for the sex trade, but homeless women  regardless of circumstance  face the constant threat of physical and sexual violence.

My days are numbered, said Ms. Collins, who grew up in Brentwood. I originally thought I was going to die here in this car. There was no hope. Meeting people who care is great. I need to see a real neurologist  and now theyre going to set me up with an appointment.

The Street Medicine team provides that lifeline. Hope exists where they venture because the medical volunteers bring tangible care and the prospect of more permanent fixes to persistent health problems, such as an appointment with a specialist or prescription for medication. A nurse hands Ms. Collins water for herself and dogs along with a hygiene kit that includes toothpaste, soap, powdered electrolytes and sunscreen before moving on.

Over the first 15 months of the program, Northwell served 84 unique patients through 205 patient encounters. In addition to addressing immediate health needs  there were 11 hospitalizations  19 patients received prescriptions ranging from medicine to bloodwork to Cologuard. The team has ventured into 49 communities  traveling a collective 2,800 miles from Hempstead to Wading River  to connect with those in need as well as participate in an annual census to identify undomiciled persons.

This is central to Northwells mission to identify areas where we can raise the level of care for underserved populations, said Debbie Salas-Lopez, MD, executive vice president of the Institute for Community Health and Wellness at Northwell. People having a tough time of it should not be shut out from access to even the most basic health needs. Street Medicine provides that helping hand and lends an ear. Being heard can be therapeutic. Getting help can be life-changing.

The endgame is housing  along with a fresh start. Street Medicine, working closely with the Coalition for the Homeless, has aided 11 patients in finding housing. Northwells Talent Acquisition team has placed one of those patients into employment within the health system and another two have received support to build resumes and enhance interview skills.

For someone to quality for housing in Nassau or Suffolk, applicants need to complete physicals and sometimes psychiatric evaluations as well as provide disability documentation, where appropriate. The team has helped 35 clients through the process.

Two stops later, the team finishes the day outside the Freeport Memorial Library and another busy throughfare Merrick Road  where they get encouraging news. Richard Seibert, 65, wont be homeless much longer. He has secured housing in Hempstead and cant wait to move in.

Housing will help me tremendously, said Mr. Seibert, who grew up plying the South Shore bays along Jones Beach. Once I settle in, then I can concentrate on real things  employment and working on getting a car. Im looking forward to getting back to a normal life.

About Northwell Health
Syrian Minister of Defense Murhaf Abu Qasra (Left) signs a defense cooperation MOU with Turkish Minister of Defense Yasar Guler. (@alokdehahmad on X)

On August 13, the Turkish Ministry of Defense announced that Turkish Minister of Defense Yasar Guler and Syrian Minister of Defense Murhaf Abu Qusra signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the training of Syrian troops and a military consultancy after talks in Ankara.

The MOU was signed after a visit to Turkey by a Syrian delegation consisting of Qusra, Minister of Foreign Affairs Asaad al Sheibani, and intelligence chief Hussein Salamah.

The state-owned Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) stated that the joint military agreement between the two countries [Turkey and Syria] aims to improve the capabilities of the Syrian Army, develop its institutions, structure, and reform the security apparatus comprehensively.

The agreement comes after a request by the Syrian government back in July for official support from Turkiye to strengthen its defense capacity and combat terror groups following the deadly clashes between the government forces, Arab Sunni tribes, and Druze militants in southern Syria.

Turkey has reportedly already started supplying the Syrian government with military assets. On July 23, a video surfaced showing the Syrian army receiving a batch of Turkish-made Ejder armored personnel carriers. Turkey had also previously eyed deploying its own troops and military aircraft at an airbase in central Syria, aiming to install advanced air defense systems to counter Israeli operations and to respond to threats from the Islamic State (IS). However, Israeli jets struck the proposed airbase in April.

Turkeys support for the Syrian government serves a strategic goal, primarily its opposition to the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF, a coalition of Kurdish groups, controls northeast Syriaabout 30 percent of the countrys territory that borders Turkey and Iraq.

Turkey argues that the SDFs main component, the Peoples Protection Units (YPG), is an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). This Kurdish group has sought autonomy in Turkey and waged an armed insurgency against the Turkish state since the 1970s.

Since the fall of the Assad regime, integrating the Kurdish-held territories into the new Syrian state has proved to be a challenge. Although the Syrian government and the SDF signed an agreement in March, progress towards integration has stalled. The main obstacles include concerns over the new governments jihadist origins and the centralization of power by Syrias new president, former Al Qaeda leader Ahmad al Sharaa.

Turkey has repeatedly warned the SDF that failure to integrate into the Syrian state will result in Turkeys military intervention. On July 22, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan threatened that Turkish forces would act against any groups taking steps aimed at dividing Syria. On August 13, he renewed the warning, urging the SDF to abandon any plans to cooperate with Israel against Damascus and to honor its integration agreement with the central government.

These threats come amid escalating tensions between the SDF and Sunni Arab tribes in northeast Syria. Several tribes have called for a general mobilization against the SDF. Sheikh Faraj al Salamah, a tribal leader in the region, stated that coordination is underway with all the tribes that have called for mobilization, and everyone is waiting for the right moment to begin moving. He described their goal as the liberation of the Syrian Jazira, referring to the Al Hasakah Governorate in northeastern Syria.

Additionally, Middle East Eye reported that US officials have warned the SDF that Washington would not be able to defend the group if the integration deal collapses and the Syrian government launches a military operation. Middle East Eye also reported that while Turkey would not directly intervene against the SDF, the Turkish Armed Forces could provide indirect support for a limited operation carried out by the Syrian army.

Ahmad Sharawi is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies focused on Iranian intervention in Arab affairs and the levant.
Damage in Dobropillia on March 8, 2025, following Russian strikes. (National Police of Ukraine)

Ukraines 1st Azov Corps has been tasked with containing Russian advances near the city of Dobropillia in eastern Ukraine, the unit announced on August 12. The situation in that area has deteriorated sharply in recent days, raising concerns about the stability of Ukraines defense there.

Several days ago, the corps assumed responsibility for the designated defense area in the Pokrovsk sector, it stated on social media, referring to the area near the city of Pokrovsk, located around 15 kilometers south of Dobropillia. The situation remains complex and dynamic, it noted. Units within the corps have planned and carried out actions to block enemy forces in the area.

Ukrainska Pravda confirmed that Azov Corps forces are now fighting near Dobropillia. This area was previously under the responsibility of the Pokrovsk Tactical Group, which, as Ukrainska Pravdas military sources say, was completely failing to hold the defence on this section of the front, the outlet reported.

The Azov Corps was formed earlier this year as part of an ongoing reform in which Ukraine is transitioning to a corps-based force structure and disbanding its tactical and operational-tactical groups, temporary command bodies responsible for specific parts of the front. The Azov Corps was built around the Ukrainian National Guards 12th Azov Brigade, which is one of Ukraines most capable units despite Western scrutiny over its far-right roots. The Azov Brigade was previously known to be fighting near Toretsk, another small city in the Donetsk region, though another brigade from the Azov Corps was already in the Pokrovsk sector.

For weeks, Pokrovsk and the adjacent city of Myrnohrad, together home to around 100,000 residents before the 2022 invasion, have faced a growing threat of encirclement. Russia has been trying to take the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration since last year, but is now close to cutting key roads into the cities after having wrapped around their northern flank.

Meanwhile, since late July, Russian forces have penetrated at least 15 kilometers deep near Dobropillia, according to DeepState, a respected Ukrainian analytical outfit that tracks battlefield developments using open-source data and information from troops. Russia may have reached the road from Dobropillia to Kramatorsk, a key logistics hub in Donetsk Oblast.

The Russian advance near Dobropillia as of August 12, 2025, according to the Ukrainian analytical project DeepState.

Reportedly, small groups of Russian dismounted infantry infiltrated through gaps in Ukraines lines and established footholds in several villages to bring up additional troops. This is in keeping with Russias current modus operandi across the front.

In recent months, Russia has mainly been attacking with small groups of infantry moving on foot (sometimes with cloaks that mask their heat signatures) or on motorbikes or utility terrain vehicles (UTVs). Russian soldiers typically seek to infiltrate as deep as they can through Ukraines porous, undermanned lines, then hunker down and wait for reinforcements. This approach results in heavy attrition but plays to Moscows advantage in manpower and can make it difficult for Ukrainian drone crews to destroy all the attackers.

In preparation for assaults, the Russians pound Ukrainian positions with glide bombs, artillery, and drone strikes. In concert, Russian drone units, particularly from the elite Rubicon Center, have sought to isolate pockets through frequent first-person view (FPV) drone strikesincluding with wire-guided models immune to electronic warfareon roads up to 20 kilometers deep or more. This approach resembles what Russia did in Kursk Oblast last winter and spring.

In addition to denying supplies to Ukrainian drone crews, Russian forces, led by Rubicon, have gotten better at suppressing or destroying those crews and intercepting their drones. These efforts challenge Ukraines ability to rely on drones of various types, coupled with mines and artillery, to thwart Russian assaults and compensate for a shortage of manpower.

At least so far, Russia has not managed to exploit its tactical success near Dobropillia to achieve an operational breakthrough. This sort of breakthrough is something Russia has proven unable to attain, despite holding the strategic initiative since fall 2023. Russian forces can breach Ukrainian lines through small-unit attacks, but they cannot mass armor and mechanized infantry to punch through and advance into the depths of Ukraines defense. This lack of penetration stems, in part, from Ukrainian adaptations, particularly its use of drones to spot and strike attacking forces quickly. Even small-scale attacks with armored vehicles have grown increasingly rare.

As analyst Rob Lee has noted, it is possible that Russias improvement in countering Ukrainian drone crews could help set the conditions for successfully massing forces. However, poor force quality following years of heavy attrition will still hinder Russias ability to scale attacks. And over time, Ukraine may find ways to counter Russian adaptations.

That said, the Ukrainian leadership has faced criticism for its decisions. Rather than trading space for maximal attrition of Russian forces, Kyiv requires units to cling to positions to retake them even when they are at risk of being encircled or located on unfavorable terrain. Fighting from inside pockets results in higher casualties and elongates the line of contact, necessitating more forces to hold it. Counterattacks to retake minor villages may similarly waste manpower and materiel.

These choices exacerbate Ukraines low manning levels in frontline units and paucity of reserves and incentivize false reporting up the chain. Due to a lack of reserves, Ukraine has repeatedly had to rush units from one sector to put out fires in another. Often, elements of one brigade get split off and attached to other formations, undermining cohesion.

Lieutenant Colonel Bohdan Krotevych, former chief of staff of the Azov Brigade, publicly raised some of these issues on Monday, calling for Ukraines top general to be replaced.

John Hardie is the deputy director of FDDs Russia Program and a contributor to FDD's Long War Journal.
People visit the Smart Vehicle Chain area of the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, capital of China, July 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- During last month's third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), overseas exhibitors made up 35 percent of participants -- up 3 percentage points from 2024 and 9 points from the inaugural 2023 edition -- with industry giants like Honeywell, GE Healthcare, and Siemens already securing their spots for next year, underscoring foreign firms' growing commitment to China.

As a major national platform for global industrial collaboration, the CISCE embodies the enduring appeal of the Chinese market during its 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), marked not only by increased foreign investment but also by significant shifts in investment fields that reflect China's broader economic transformation.

HARD-WON GAINS

The expo's momentum echoes wider trends. By June 2025, China's actual utilized foreign direct investment (FDI) reached 708.73 billion U.S. dollars since 2021, hitting the 14th Five-Year Plan target of 700 billion U.S. dollars six months ahead of schedule.

In the same period, 229,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were launched, 25,000 more than in the 2016-2020 period.

Despite fluctuations in FDI in recent years, China's ability to maintain steady foreign capital inflows stands out in a challenging global environment.

According to the United Nations, global FDI fell 11 percent in 2024, marking the second straight year of decline after a sharp drop in 2023. Early data for the first quarter of 2025 offers little optimism, suggesting a possible third consecutive year of contraction.

"Weak global direct investment has weighed on China's FDI, but a closer look shows resilience," said Fan Penghui, a senior researcher with the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, a think tank with the Ministry of Commerce. "A periodic slowdown after a peak is normal. Investment cycles ebb and flow."

FOCUS ON HIGH-TECH SECTORS

In fact, China's high-tech industries and service sectors have seen continuous growth in foreign investment, which underscores that foreign capital is riding on the development wave of China's new quality productive forces, Fan noted.

In 2024, high-tech industries attracted 34.6 percent of foreign investment, up 6 percentage points from 2020. The first half of 2025 accelerated this shift. High-tech sectors attracted 127.87 billion yuan in foreign capital, with e-commerce services surging 127.1 percent, chemical pharmaceuticals up 53 percent, and aerospace equipment manufacturing rising 36.2 percent.

Amid China's artificial intelligence (AI) boom and computing capacity boost, U.S. materials science giant Corning plans to localize the production of high-end optical fibers in Shanghai, responding to the need for denser, faster data transmission in AI data centers, where fiber requirements are much higher than those in traditional facilities, according to Lin Chunmei, president and general manager of Corning Greater China.

For many multinational corporations, China has evolved beyond a sales market into a hub for growth and innovation, prompting increased R&D investment to tap into the country's innovation potential.

According to Leng Yan, executive vice president of Mercedes-Benz China, the company has poured over 10.5 billion yuan into Chinese R&D over five years, and with its Shanghai R&D center, the company's local innovation now "leads global development."

HOLD IT STEADY

China's success in attracting foreign investment is underpinned by a deliberate policy push to keep foreign investment steady, including opening more fields to foreign firms and creating a more welcoming environment.

The negative list for foreign investment has been steadily shortened, with all manufacturing restrictions eliminated in 2024. Pilot programs are also opening up services like value-added telecom and biotechnology.

To build trust and cut red tape, a roundtable consultation system for foreign businesses was established. Since 2023, the Ministry of Commerce has held over 30 meetings, resolving more than 1,500 operational issues raised by foreign firms.

Plans are in motion to expand these efforts. A revised catalogue of industries encouraged for foreign investment is in the works. The updated list will guide more foreign capital toward advanced manufacturing, modern services, high-tech, energy conservation, and environmental protection sectors, as well as into central, western and northeastern regions, according to the country's top economic planner.

"As China continues to expand institutional opening up, foreign investment is expected to integrate more deeply into domestic innovation and supply chains, striking a new balance with growing emphasis on quality," Fan said. 
A woman who was shot in Bostons Hyde Park neighborhood has died, with one person in police custody facing a murder charge, Boston police said Wednesday.

At around 10:30 a.m., officers received a radio call for shots fired on Faraday Street, police said in a statement.

Officers found a man and a woman who were both shot several times, the statement read. Both were taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, where the woman was pronounced dead.

Following an investigation, police arrested Jonathan Hernandez, 41, of Hyde Park, police said. Hernandez faces one count of murder, one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault with intent to murder.

He is expected to be arraigned in West Roxbury District Court.

The Boston Police Departments Homicide Unit is still investigating the shooting and asks that anyone with information about the shooting call them at 617-343-4470.
BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday condemned Taiwan's "Academia Historica" for referring to the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression as "the end of the Sino-Japanese War and post-war handover" in a recent statement.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to a media query at a regular press conference.

Zhu said that this distortion deliberately downplays the brutality of Japanese militarist aggression, negates the just nature of the resistance war, and overlooks its historic victory.

"It reflects not only ignorance of history, but also a desecration of the sacrifices made by the entire nation," she said.

Zhu stressed that the recovery of Taiwan is a significant outcome of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and a great triumph achieved through the unyielding struggle of the entire Chinese people, including compatriots in Taiwan, which is worthy of joint commemoration by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

She urged compatriots in Taiwan to firmly defend the achievements of Taiwan's recovery and resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatism and external interference.

Zhu also noted that many Taiwan compatriots had watched the film "Dead to Rights" on the mainland, which draws on verified photographic evidence of Japanese wartime atrocities during the Nanjing Massacre. 
Brian Walshe enters the courtroom for his arraignment on April 27, 2023, in Dedham. Walshe, a Massachusetts man charged with killing his wife, was sentenced Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, to more than three years in jail over an unrelated art fraud case involving the sale of two fake Andy Warhol paintings. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool, File)

Lawyers for Brian Walshe filed a motion to dismiss his murder case on Tuesday, arguing that prosecutors inability or unwillingness to go through materials turned over by the federal government for information beneficial to Walshe was a violation of his rights.

Its the second motion to dismiss that Walshes lawyers have filed in recent weeks. The first was the subject of a hearing last month and has not been ruled on. The motion filed Tuesday has yet to be heard before a judge.

Walshe is charged with murder in connection with the death of his wife, Ana, who he is accused of killing in the Cohasset home where they lived with their children. Prosecutors say Walshe dismembered his wifes body in the homes basement, then disposed of her remains in dumpsters.

The Norfolk district attorneys office has said it is barred from going through the materials generated in the federal investigation of the Karen Read case for information concerning any other defendant. Yet, prosecutors are required by law to turn over any information they have that could be beneficial to a defendant.

Further complicating the issue is a federal order that required the materials to be returned or destroyed 30 days after the resolution of the Read case. Read was acquitted on June 18, making the deadline July 18. Prosecutors got a 30-day extension from a federal judge, which is set to expire on Monday.

The Walshe motion claims that failure to dismiss the indictments or to order the district attorneys office to review the materials would rob him of his rights to a fair trial, due process, and to have effective assistance of counsel.

The commonwealth has failed to inform this court or any court what the exact basis is that theyre relying on that says they cant review the documents in their possession and custody, Larry Tipton, a lawyer representing Walshe, said at a hearing Tuesday afternoon.

Walshes case is unlike many others confronting the same issue because one of the prosecutors from the Read case, Laura McLaughlin, is assigned to his case.

In her review of the federal materials, McLaughlin identified information she deemed could be beneficial to a defendant in an unrelated case, according to court filings. But she has said she was not allowed to turn over the evidence.

Norfolk Superior Court Judge Peter Krupp has not taken any action on the federal materials issue, repeatedly saying he did not want to enter an order that contradicted the federal court. But he warned prosecutors that they could face sanctions if they didnt comply with their obligations.

There would be consequences on you and your prosecution of these cases if you did not comply with your state constitutional requirements or your Rule 14 requirements with respect to the material thats in your possession and custody, he said.

The federal court judge who set forth the orders, Denise Casper, could remedy the issue by amending her order to allow state prosecutors to review the materials.

The district attorneys office, through a lawyer hired to represent it, has asked her to do just that, and to give prosecutors six months to hold on to the materials. But federal prosecutors opposed the district attorneys offices effort to intervene in the federal case.

In a letter to First Assistant Norfolk District Attorney Lisa Beatty, federal prosecutors stated in relevant part that [they] would not agree to or request an extension of the destruction date.

Beatty said she does not believe the U.S. Attorneys office for Massachusetts is trying to prevent local prosecutors from complying with either a state or federal order.

These are important issues for the defendants. These are important issues to the commonwealth, to the victims and to our whole process, she said. And this office is committed to and is continuing to work through these issues.

Walshes case, and four others, will be back before Krupp at 2 p.m. on Thursday.
The owner of a Massachusetts commercial and residential roofing business was sentenced to a year and a day in prison in federal court on Tuesday for hiding $1.6 million in income from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the state U.S. Attorneys office announced.

Natick resident Jake Miller, 42, of Natick, previously pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion in February, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office said in a press release.

Miller owned and operated Kostas Roofing, conducting business under the alias Paul Kostas rather than under his own name, the U.S. Attorneys office said. Between 2013 and 2021, he cashed his customers checks and deposited the proceeds into his personal bank accounts, but flew under the radar of the IRS due to the name discrepancy.

Despite receiving at least $1.6 million from his roofing business from 2013 to 2021, Miller did not file income tax returns for any of these years, the U.S. Attorneys office said. As a result, he evaded paying income taxes of nearly $450,000.

In addition to the prison time, a federal judge sentenced Miller to a year of supervised release following his incarceration, the U.S. Attorneys office said. The judge also ordered him to pay nearly $450,000 in restitution.
Spirit Airlines warns that it could go out of business. Spirit Airlines

Although Spirit Airlines was emerging from bankruptcy, the company warns that its financial problems are far from over.

In a quarterly report shared on Monday, Aug. 11, Spirit Airlines revealed that its struggling to turn a profit due to a low demand for leisure travel and fierce market competition.

As a result, the Company continues to experience challenges and uncertainties in its business operations and expects these trends to continue for at least the remainder of 2025, the report reads.

Spirit Airlines has already taken measures to address these issues by working on network and product enhancements while placing pilots on unpaid temporary leave. The airline might also sell off some aircrafts, real estate and airport gates.

However, these initiatives may not be enough to meet the minimum cash-on-hand requirements put in place as part of the end of Spirit Airlines bankruptcy.

While it is the Companys goal to execute on these initiatives, there can be no assurance that such initiatives will be successful, Sprit wrote in the report.

Spirit Airlines did not immediately respond to MassLives request for comment Wednesday.

The quarterly report also noted an estimated $261.1 million decrease in operating revenues for the second quarter of 2025, as compared to the same period in 2024.

While operating expenses also went down, primarily due to lower fuel costs and fewer flights, the companys financial results still fell short.

Spirits struggles have been ongoing for years. In November 2024, Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy noting financial struggles partially driven by lower operating revenue and higher operating expenses.

As part of the bankruptcy agreement, the companys bondholders committed $350 million in equity investment and $300 million in debtor-in-possession financing to keep the airline afloat during the restructuring.

The companys struggles, which have only increased in recent years, started several years ago shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Spirit has not reported an annual profit since 2019, and it has lost more than $2 billion since 2020, according to the Times.

The company took another hit after a federal judge barred a planned merger with JetBlue Airways earlier in 2024.

The judge banned the merger in January 2024, arguing it would reduce competition in the airline business and that smaller, inexpensive airlines such as Spirit would hurt consumers seeking reduced fares, the Times reported.

JetBlue and Spirit believed the merger would have been worth pursuing as it would have unleashed a national low-fare, high-value competitor, JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said in a March release.

Instead, it ended with JetBlue paying the company $69 million and cutting all ties to the transaction.
Karen Read watches jurors enter the courtroom to resume deliberations during her trial at Norfolk Superior Court, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Dedham, Mass. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Karen Read is seeking to dismiss portions of the wrongful death lawsuit brought by the family of John OKeefe, a Boston police officer she dated and who died in January 2022, according to documents filed with Plymouth Superior Court on Tuesday.

Read, 45, was acquitted of all charges connected to the death of OKeefe in June following a lengthy retrial. Prosecutors accused her of backing her Lexus SUV into OKeefe after a night of drinking. She was found guilty of a lesser charge: operating under the influence.

In a motion filed on Tuesday, Read seeks to dismiss four counts of the civil lawsuit by OKeefes family that claim emotional distress inflicted on OKeefes parents, Margaret OKeefe and John OKeefe II, his brother, Paul OKeefe, and OKeefes niece, Kayley Furbush.

Read vehemently denies that she is liable to the Plaintiffs, as there was no collision between the Defendants SUV and John J. OKeefe III leading to his injury or death, the motion reads.

After Reads first trial concluded in a mistrial last year, OKeefes family filed the lawsuit in Plymouth Superior Court, claiming Read was responsible for OKeefes death. The family also named two Canton bars where the pair drank on the night of his death as defendants.

The two bars have joined in Reads efforts to have the four counts dismissed, according to court filings, along with additional counts.

In a response to the motion to dismiss filed by Reads attorneys, Marc Diller, the OKeefe familys attorney, answered with a sharply worded memorandum in opposition.

Defendant Karen Read inaccurately styled her motion as a motion to dismiss the plaintiffs complaint when in reality it only seeks to dismiss several counts sounding in emotional distress, knowing that the media would pick up on the ... filing, the memorandum states.

Diller described Read as exploiting OKeefes niece as her attempt to deflect and to frame a false narrative around JJs death.

The OKeefe family has suffered and continues to suffer immense emotional trauma from this wrongful death, which has been further intensified by the unyielding barrage of harassment and ridicule by Read and her supporters targeting the grieving family, Diller wrote. Reads campaign of disinformation designed to obfuscate the truth and to attack the OKeefe family not only deprives them of justice but also amplifies their grief and the loss of their beloved family member, Diller wrote.

The OKeefe familys lawyer argued that Reads defense is attempting to prematurely dismiss claims made by the OKeefes since the case has largely been on pause due to her trial, which lasted from April to June.

Plaintiffs infliction of emotional distress claims require a fact-intensive analysis, which is not ripe for deciding at this early stage of the lawsuit and without adequate discovery, Diller wrote.

Last month, Read added three new lawyers to her defense team in the civil suit: Damon Seligson, Charles Waters and Aaron D. Rosenberg. They join three lawyers from the firm Melick & Porter, who already represented Read: Christopher George, William L. Keville Jr. and Marissa K. Palladini.

The civil case could mark the first time Read speaks under oath about the events of Jan. 29, 2022, when OKeefe, 46, was found near death in the snow outside the home of a fellow Boston Police officer in Canton. Her deposition, along with those of her parents and sister-in-law, had been on pause while the criminal trial was ongoing.

The burden of proof in a civil case is much lower than in a criminal case, and jurors need only to find that a preponderance of the evidence shows something is true.

No trial date has been set for the case. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 22.
Cue Im Shipping up to Boston, as Massachusetts was once again named by WalletHub as the best state to live in for the second year in a row.

Massachusetts was followed by Idaho, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Minnesota, according to the survey results released on Monday.

The financial literary websites survey relied on 51 key indicators of livability, including housing costs, education and quality of hospitals, to determine the best states to call home.

The Bay State took top honors, in large part, because of its healthcare system and high-quality education, WalletHubs analysis concluded.

Massachusetts has the lowest premature death rate in the country and the fifth-lowest share of adults in fair or poor health, WalletHub said that the state also has the highest share of residents with health insurance coverage, at 97.4%.

The Bay State also ranks first for the quality of its school systems, the report continued. It has the 10th-best high school graduation rate in the country, too, at roughly 90%. Good-quality education has helped the states residents succeed financially, with the second-highest median household income, at over $101,000.

Even as it ranked first in education and healthcare, Massachusetts also ranked sixth for both safety and quality of life, ninth for economy  but 44th in affordability. The state that followed, Idaho, ranked more favorably in affordability at 11.

Massachusetts property crime rate is the third-lowest in the United States, WalletHubs analysts found. It is also the third-best when it comes to public transportation.

While New Hampshire was the only other New England state to be in the top 10, all of New England made the top 25. New Hampshire was fifth-best for homeownership and ranked as having the lowest poverty and crime rates in the country.

At 13th is Maine, which landed in eighth place for its economy, 10th place for safety, 11th place for its education and healthcare systems, and 35th in affordability.

Vermont took the 21st spot, followed by Connecticut and Rhode Island, back-to-back, at 24th and 25th.

WalletHub graded each state on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the most favorable living conditions.

The company also determined the weighted average of each state across all metrics to calculate its overall score, then used those resulting scores to rank-order each state.
A Holyoke man working as a librarian for Longmeadow Public Schools (LPS) was arrested in connection with the possession of child sex abuse material, as well as keeping items in a locked case that included childrens underwear, diapers and diaper cream, among other things, United States Attorney Leah Foleys office said Wednesday.

Scott McGinley, 55, was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography. He is expected to appear in court later Wednesday afternoon, Foleys office said in a statement.

Longmeadow Public Schools Superintendent Marty OShea informed families within the district that the librarian, who worked at Glenbrook and Williams Middle School, of the arrest.

Mr. McGinley worked at Glenbrook and Williams from Aug. 24, 2016, until Aug. 12, 2025, OShea said in a letter obtained by MassLive. The press release describes a highly troubling and disturbing criminal matter. Longmeadow Public Schools is cooperating fully and openly with all law enforcement agencies and has been in communication with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families and the Longmeadow Police.

McGinley distributed child sex abuse material to a group on an encrypted messenger app called Little boyz only, Foleys office said.

An undercover agent pretending to be a user on the app contacted McGinley, who then told the agent that his sexual preference was for boys age 2-12 and especially 4-7, Foleys office said. He then told the agent that he had students who were 11-14 years old" but ha[d]nt touched them sexually, and he sat hot boys strategically so [he could] see under their desks, and close to [him], and made graphic sexual statements about the boys.

A search of McGinleys person and home on Aug. 8 yielded the recovery of several electronic devices, including two iPhones, an Apple Watch, a tablet and two laptops, Foleys office said. Inside a locked Pelican case was found in the basement and contained several items for children between 5 and 7 years old.

Items found included childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream, boys underwear, bedding and apple sauce packets, Foleys office said. A forensic examination of McGinleys phone also found over 100 files that depict child sex abuse material.

McGinleys devices continued to be reviewed by investigators, Foleys office added.

The charge of distribution of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

OShea said his letter would be the first in a series of communications from the district on this distressing situation.

I have asked local law enforcement, representatives of the U.S. Attorneys Office and the FBI to join me and school officials at in-person and remotely accessible informational meetings. Additional details on these events will be forthcoming.

School counselors, social workers and administrators will be available to support students and staff who need to talk or process what they are experiencing.

Our highest priority is and always will be student safety and well-being, OShea wrote. LPS has policies and protocols in place to protect students through student education, staff training and the use of background checks and mandatory reporting. At this time, I am sharing all of the information available to me.

More information will be shared with LPS families, as the district continues to cooperate with law enforcement, the superintendent wrote.

Our community has always shown strength in difficult times, he said. I have no doubt that we will come together now with the same care and resilience to support one another.
If you know nothing else about the blitz of proposed 2026 ballot questions that were filed with the state last week, know this:

Policy advocates across the spectrum whose causes live and die at Beacon Hills whim  are feeling themselves. And theyre not afraid to show it.

From rent control and squashing an unpopular statewide zoning law to opening up the states primaries, ending the gas tax and cutting the income tax, this years volley of proposals  there are more than 40 of them  signals some high-grade frustration with Beacon Hills admittedly laissez-faire approach to lawmaking.

The proof is in the numbers. Lawmakers on both sides of the State House introduced an eye-popping 8,456 bills in 2025, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan tracking site Fiscal Note.

So far, just seven bills have made it through the process and been signed into law. Thats the worst record in the nation, according to that same analysis.

Given that, it only makes sense to go straight to the voters. And recent history suggests theyre willing, under the right circumstances, to play along.

Advocates are taking heart from a 70% victory on an anti-Beacon Hill ballot measure in the last round, Jerold Duquette, a Central Connecticut State University political science professor who tracks Bay State politics, said.

Thats a reference to the wildly popular, but still hotly contested and utterly unfinished, 2024 ballot question that empowered state Auditor Diana DiZoglio to audit the state Legislatures books.

This is definitely coming from activists who want the pace of change to go faster  urgency felt even more so because of whos in the White House. Trump is polarizing the progressive base and activists are responding, UMass Amherst political science professor Ray La Raja said.

How it all works

Its not as easy as it sounds. And before we proceed, a brief word about the process.

Attorney General Andrea J. Campbells office has until Sept. 3 to decide which ballot questions meet constitutional muster. If they do, their backers have to gather 74,574 signatures by Dec. 3.

If that happens, the questions go before the state Legislature, which has until the first Wednesday in May of 2026 to pass them, propose a substitute, or take no action.

If the latter happens, backers have to collect a second round of 12,429 signatures by July of the same year to get on the November general election ballot.

The power and money game

And thats where things can really get interesting  and the cash can start pouring in, putting to lie the idea that ballot questions are the popular will given voice.

Once again, the proof is in the numbers. Interest groups on either side of the 2024 ballot questions spent a combined total of $25.2 million to advance their causes, according to a report by the states Office of Campaign and Political Finance.

That includes the hugely influential Massachusetts Teachers Association, which advocated on behalf of scrapping the MCAS exam as a high school graduation requirement.

The MTA was the single largest contributor to the Committee for High Standards Not High Stakes, paying for goods and services such as advertising, mailings, consulting, and staff time to support the question, according to that OCPF analysis.

Its an elitist game  its become dominated by people who are already powerful, and have a very large presence in the state, La Raja said.

For Duquette, these kinds of high-profile contests are also a way for the Legislature to wash its hands of taking on a politically polarizing issue. The high-dollar ballot battles then become proxy fights, he argued.

Its ... a political pressure valve that the Legislature is happy to use, he said. When there is an issue that causes two special interests to square off against each other, the Legislature is happy to let them beat each other up.

Secretary of State Bill Galvin, law enforcement officials and advocates highlighted resources for mental wellness, substance use and domestic violence at a press conference Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022 at the State House with the holiday season underway. Alison Kuznitz/MassLive

Marquee names

Among the constellation of interest groups waging ballot fights, one high-wattage political name emerges: Massachusetts Secretary of State William F. Galvin.

The states chief elections officer has filed a question that would allow people to register and vote on Election Day. The Brighton Democrat told MassLive that its the capstone of a broader effort to make it easier for people to vote.

Every major election we have, statewide that is consequential, we end up with tens of thousands of people trying to vote ... and they are not on the list, they get a provisional ballot, then the election administrators try to determine [whether] they can be counted, Galvin said in a phone interview.

And thats where La Raja and Duquette said they both draw the line between ballot questions that improve the process and those they believe do not.

Ballot questions that make it easier to vote or boost competition in elections, broadly, are good ones, they argued. Others, such as one that would ditch legislative leadership stipends, are institutional tinkering and not as welcome.

I dont like ballot measures that try to change the institution itself, La Raja explained. They should be making their own decisions. Changes will happen in the Legislature if you change the electoral incentives.

Duquette, in a separate interview, offered a similar analysis.

Any ballot initiative that tries to change the operation of the Legislature is unconstitutional, he argued. This is the nose in the tent for the kind of executive overreach that has destroyed Washington and paralyzed many state houses around the country.
Suffolk County Sheriff Steve Tompkins spoke at the 2019 Massachusetts Democratic Convention held at the MassMutual Center in Downtown Springfield on September 14, 2019. (Photo by Erik Kaplan)

Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins, who faces a federal extortion indictment, has resigned his post on the Board of Trustees for Roxbury Community College.

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation effective August 12, 2025, from the Roxbury Community College Board of Trustees, including from the appointed position as Chair of the Board of Trustees, Tompkins wrote in a resignation letter to Gov. Maura Healey, according to multiple published reports.

I have greatly appreciated serving as a Trustee of Roxbury Community Colleges Board and as Chair of the Board of Trustees, he wrote.

In a statement, Healey said Tompkins made the right decision by stepping down from the Roxbury Community College Board.

She said that vice chair Israul Marrero will immediately begin serving as interim chair, NBC-10 in Boston reported.

It was not clear on Wednesday whether Tompkins intended to step down from his sheriffs post.

Earlier this week, Healey said she was deeply concerned by the charges against Tompkins, saying theyre certainly serious, and no one in elected positions should ever use or abuse their power in an unlawful way.

But the Arlington Democrat said she needed more information before she could call on Tompkins to give up his sheriffs position.

Tompkins was arrested Friday in Florida and indicted by a federal grand jury on two extortion counts.

Prosecutors have charged that Tompkins used his position to pressure a Boston-based cannabis company executive into paying $50,000 in exchange for help doing business in the city. The U.S. Justice Department said the conduct involved the purchase of an equity interest in the company.

Healeys reticence is a contrast to comments she made in April when she swiftly called on state Rep. Christopher Flanagan, D-1st Barnstable, to resign after his arrest on fraud charges.

The two Republicans vying for the 2026 gubernatorial nomination each issued statements Wednesday criticizing Healey for her inaction in the Tompkins matter.

Healey had six days to do the right thing for the people of Massachusetts and remove Sheriff Tompkins from the board she controls, GOP hopeful Mike Kennealy said. Instead, she dragged her feet, stalling to shield him from accountability, and only acted once he resigned.

Healeys inaction shows she either lacks the leadership to make the tough calls required of a governor or chose to protect a political ally. Both are utterly unacceptable, Kennealy, who served as former Gov. Charlie Bakers top housing and economic development official, said.

Republican aspirant Brian Shortsleeve was similarly critical.

The silence coming from the governors office is deafening. Maura Healey needs to do what should have been done last Friday and call on Tompkins to step down as sheriff immediately, Shortsleeve, who helmed the MBTA under Baker, said.

We cannot have as the top law enforcement official in Suffolk County someone facing federal extortion charges. Her continued resistance is another rotten example of the Democrat machine circling the wagons to protect one of their own, Shortsleeve said.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks as President Donald Trump listens at an event to promote his proposal to improve Americans' access to their medical records in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) AP

Goodbye, easy-to-prepare frozen meals; hello, more labor-intensive, freshly prepared meals.

Thats one of the changes the Trump administration is looking to make to school lunch programs as students nationwide get ready to return to the classroom.

But advocates say the administrations pivot under U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. isnt practical without the federal funding to go with it, according to The Hill.

Kennedy has made no secret of his disdain for the ultra-processed foods that he says are doing a number on Americans health

We need to stop poisoning our kids and make sure that Americans are once again the healthiest kids on the planet, Kennedy said in April, according to The Hill.

Kennedy has praised such states as Arizona, Utah and West Virginia, where officials have moved to clamp down on certain dyes and processed foods, the online news outlet reported.

But Kennedys goals have clashed with a funding reality, with the White House pulling the plug on a pair of programs, totaling $1 billion, that helped schools buy food from local farmers.

They are being asked to create healthy and appealing meals on very slim budgets, and there have been things that have been happening recently that have taken away even more of their resources, Alexis Bylander, director of child nutrition programs and policy at the Food Research & Action Center, told The Hill.

In Massachusetts, officials have moved to mitigate those cuts, with lawmakers setting aside $7.5 million in additional funding for the states Healthy Incentive Program, which provides healthy, fresh food for Bay State Families, while providing farmers with a way to sell produce.

The money was included in a $259 million midyear budget that lawmakers sent to Gov. Maura Healey last month.

The legislation was a priority for state Sen. Joanne M. Comerford, who pointed to the need for access to healthy food for qualifying families in the face of Republican-backed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program  often referred to as food stamps.

It really speaks to this critical moment, Comerford, D-Hampshire/Franklin/Worcester, told MassLive earlier this year when she unveiled the legislation.

In Oklahoma, meanwhile, Ryan Walters, the Sooner States superintendent of public instruction, is already working on making MAHA a reality in school meals. Hes said that schools can no longer serve foods that are ultraprocessed or grown with pesticides, according to The Hill.

Oklahoma school districts are expected to make the changes without extra wiggle room in their budgets, The Hill reported.

What were seeing with the MAHA movement as its applied in our state is lots of talk about restriction and what people can have and what choices they can make, but not a lot of talk about making sure people have access to the healthy things they need or the resources they need to not be food insecure  because, ultimately, if you dont have access to enough food, nutritious or not, your health outcomes are worse than if you do, Chris Bernard, the CEO and president of Hunger Free Oklahoma, told The Hill.
SPRINGFIELD  A newly hired assistant schools superintendent in Springfield hosted a prohibited fundraiser for a School Committee member and City Council candidate.

An invitation obtained by The Republican shows that Jose Escribano, then a School Department family liaison and former principal, hosted a Fall Fundraiser at The Fort restaurant for Joesiah Gonzalez.
A dancer performs on a street during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Edinburgh, Britain, on Aug. 11, 2025. Established in 1947, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has grown into the world's largest arts festival, transforming the Scottish capital into one vast stage every August for three weeks. Thousands of performers from across the globe present theatre, dance, comedy, music, circus, and experimental work, drawing millions of visitors and industry professionals each year. (Xinhua/Zheng Bofei)

EDINBURGH, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- On Monday afternoon, The Pure Blue, a marine-themed dance drama from the College of Dance at Shanghai Theatre Academy, unfolded on stage in the audience-packed C ARTS in Edinburgh. Inspired by the "Fish Dance" of the Dai ethnic groups, the work fused environmental storytelling with Chinese artistic traditions.

"The use of fabric to evoke waves and plastics was subtle but powerful," said Aidan Feldman, a New York-based dancer performing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for the first time.

Established in 1947, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has grown into the world's largest arts festival, transforming the Scottish capital into one vast stage every August for three weeks. Thousands of performers from across the globe present theatre, dance, comedy, music, circus, and experimental work, drawing millions of visitors and industry professionals each year.

Against this lively backdrop of bagpipes, cobblestone streets, and packed venues, this year's Edinburgh festivals welcomed a diverse program of Chinese theatre, dance, music, children's drama, and multimedia works under the China Focus banner.

From July 30 to Aug. 25, China Focus, in its fifth edition, brought nine original Chinese productions to the Scottish capital in a vibrant display of cultural exchange.

This year's line-up ranges from "Echoes," a stage drama exploring the legend of the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove, to "Zhuangzi's Dream," which intertwines philosophy, intangible heritage, and experimental theatre.

Other works include "Inspired by the Eastern Wind," which merged street dance with Chinese classical aesthetics, a contemporary folk music concert "A Panorama of Hunan" and AI-enhanced dance productions such as Personalities 4.0.

Tang Yingqi, vice president of the Center for China Shanghai International Arts Festival, said the program is "a concentrated presentation of how young Chinese artists merge innovation with tradition," noting that some performances sold out immediately after tickets were released.

"This platform helps our artists understand what resonates with international audiences, which in turn refines their creative direction," she said.

"We are not just bringing art. We are also bringing an invitation to enhance dialogue with the rest of the world," she noted.

Chinese Consul General in Edinburgh Zhang Biao described China Focus as "an important window for showcasing contemporary Chinese art" and called for deeper exchanges between the two countries.

Zheng Hao, an official with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Bureau of International Exchanges and Cooperation, likened cultural exchange to "a bridge that fosters understanding, removes barriers, and builds consensus."

Highlighting the decade-long cooperation between Britain and China across film, television, gaming, music, publishing, museums, and performing arts, Neil Semple, deputy head of Creative Industry at the UK's Department for Business and Trade, said "We need to find common ground and universal themes for collaboration."

Edinburgh International Festival Creative Director Roy Luxford, who has attended the Shanghai International Arts Festival, observed a growing shift in Chinese performances toward contemporary and diverse art forms.

"When the world is so complex, we look to our artists for fresh perspectives," he noted.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society Deputy CEO Lyndsey Jackson also confirmed that "Chinese artists bring work that is innovative and full of stories the world needs to hear." 

An artist performs on a street during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Edinburgh, Britain, on Aug. 11, 2025. Established in 1947, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has grown into the world's largest arts festival, transforming the Scottish capital into one vast stage every August for three weeks. Thousands of performers from across the globe present theatre, dance, comedy, music, circus, and experimental work, drawing millions of visitors and industry professionals each year. (Xinhua/Zheng Bofei)

A musician performs on a street during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Edinburgh, Britain, on Aug. 11, 2025. Established in 1947, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has grown into the world's largest arts festival, transforming the Scottish capital into one vast stage every August for three weeks. Thousands of performers from across the globe present theatre, dance, comedy, music, circus, and experimental work, drawing millions of visitors and industry professionals each year. (Xinhua/Zheng Bofei)
WESTFIELD  At the urging of Ward 3 Councilor Bridget Matthews-Kane, neighbors of the Municipal Park came to the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on Aug. 11 to share their concerns about the noise, lights, hours and vehicle activity at the park, which they said are causing a disturbance.

Commission Chair Scott LaBombard invited Matthews-Kane to speak first on the agenda item. She said the concerns were brought to her attention when she invited people abutting the neighborhood of the Westfield River Elementary School to a ward meeting.
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Uisce Eireann crews have repaired a burst water main in North Mayo town Ballina and the water supply is returning to customers affected.

Following repairs, it typically takes two to three hours for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage.

However, it may take longer for normal supply to be restored to customers on higher ground or at the end of the network.

READ MORE: Planning granted to replace derelict building in south Mayo village with four apartment units

Uisce Eireanns Colette Scahill thanked residents and businesses in the town for their patience while crews carried out the repair works following the burst at Convent Hill this morning.

Unplanned outages are inconvenient for our customers and we thank them for supporting our crews while repairs were ongoing.

Earlier in the day, Irish Water crews diverted supply to parts of the town. However, some customers experienced an outage or low water pressure throughout the day.

As well as social media channels, customers can also keep up to date through Irish Water's customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.

READ MORE: ALERT: 'Do not swim' notice put in place for busy Mayo beach

Updates are available on Irish Water's Water Supply Updates section on water.ie.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Eireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours. To register as a vulnerable customer or as an alternative contact, visit www.water.ie/vulnerablecustomer
A MAYO councillor has joined her party leader in calling for the Tanaiste and Fine Gael leader, Simon Harris to resign following the death of a young boy who had been waiting for scoliosis treatment.

Aontu councillor Deirdre Lawless made the comments following the death of nine-year-old Harvey Morrison Sherratt and said that the Tanaiste is as caring and compassionate as his carefully nurtured image suggests he should resign immediately'.

Her party leader, Meath West TD, Peadar Toibin called on the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to resign over the handling of the case of Harvey from Clondalkin in Dublin, who died on July 29 July and had spina bifida and scoliosis.

He had been subject to delays in accessing urgent scoliosis surgery and last year, his parents Gillian Sherratt and Stephen Morrison, said that Harvey had been removed from a Children's Health Ireland (CHI) waiting list for urgent scoliosis surgery without their consent or knowledge.

READ: Lidl granted permission to demolish and rebuild Mayo foodstore

Cllr Lawless said that she could not imagine the anguish felt by the parents of Harvey and promises made by Minister Harris regarding scoliosis when he was Minister of Health had not been kept.

As a mother, as a human being, I simply cannot imagine the anguish that Harveys parents and loved ones are going through at the avoidable loss of their little boy. Their grief is compounded by the fact that Harveys death was not inevitable, it could have been avoided had he received the treatment he desperately needed in a timely fashion and which Harris promised to all children with the condition.

In 2017 as Minister for Health Harris promised that no child would wait for longer than four months for a Scoliosis operation. We are now in 2025, and a sweet little innocent child has died because the pressure on his little lungs became too much to bear due to the curvature of his spine that worsened the longer he waited for surgery.

Those of us who know anyone who suffers with the condition Scoliosis will know firsthand about the excruciating pain that they can suffer and the difficulty they can have breathing. Imagine the anguish for the parents who have to watch helplessly, unable to secure medical intervention... Simon Harris was Minister for Health when he stepped forward and made life changing promises. He gave false promises to desperate children and their families. Not only is this unconscionable. It is cruel, she said.

The Knock-based councillor added that the families of children removed from the waiting list have yet to receive answers as to why this occurred and described this as 'unforgivable'.

We know that Simon Harris is very good at making promises, not so good at actually keeping them. We know he is good at furrowing his brow and affecting sympathynow is the time to actually have the decency to resign and if he doesnt have the decency to do that he should be sacked.

Politicians simply cannot be allowed to make false promises with disastrous consequences and not be held accountable, she concluded.
A DERELICT two-storey building in the centre of a south Mayo village is set to be demolished to make way for four apartment units after planning permission was granted.

Mayo County Council granted planning permission to CKP Properties, a Kerry-based company, to demolish a two-storey derelict building in the centre of Shrule and construct four new apartment units.

The two-storey building which currently has no roof or windows is located along the N84 on Main Street and was formerly known as M Kavanagh's.

The developers had proposed to demolish the construct four two storey apartment units with units one to three located on the existing footprint and unit four was to be a new construction to the rear with access via a rear laneway.

Unit one was to comprise a one-bedroomed 58.5 square metre apartment; unit two a two-bedroom 81 square metre apartment; unit three a three-bedroom 103 square metre apartment and unit four was to be a one-bedroom 58.5 square metre apartment.

READ: Lidl granted permission to demolish and rebuild Mayo foodstore

A submission from Lola Donoghue, who owns a studio close by raised concerns over the impact the proposed development on adjoining artists studio with particular regard to unit four which was to be located 1.85 metres from her building.

My concerns stem from the significant impact this development would have on my studio, particularly the disruption of the natural light essential to my work as an artist. The proposed development will negatively impact the use of my property, she stated in her submission.

Ms Donoghue also expressed concern that the proposed demolition of the traditional shopfront would adversely affect the traditional streetscape and cultural heritage of the area.

I would argue that the proposed demolition of this traditional shopfront would erase a piece of our local history. I would also argue that such facades are intrinsic to Irelands design heritage and should be preserved wherever possible.

This vernacular signage, a longstanding visual identity of our streets, is rapidly disappearing in todays urban landscapes. Ceramic lettering with marble effect which was used in this shopfront is indicative of signage from the West of Ireland. We should maintain the authenticity and charm of the streetscape, she added.

Planners with Mayo County Council accepted the concern of Ms Donoghue regarding unit four and advised the developers to consider a redesign of it to a single storey to address this concern.

The applicants agreed to this request and also increased the separation distance between unit four and the adjoining property to 2.8m.

As a result, Mayo County Council granted planning permission for the development subject to eight conditions.
Woman's Aid has shared the harrowing story of a woman who sought help from the organisation after she was the victim of domestic violence.

'Jane's Story' reveals the devasting truth of the woman's experience of living with her husband - the man who abused her while she was pregnant with his child.

"I had been with him since I was 24 years old, we had been married for two years. He was always so gentle and kind to me when we were going out, he always remembered the little things I liked and would surprise me all the time," Jane (not her real name) started.

"When we went out he would be very proud of me and be telling everyone how great I was, he really was a wonderful man. We got married when I was 28 and on our honeymoon he told me that I would always be his. He was very good to my family, always doing little jobs for them on the weekends, painting, fixing the car and stuff like that. They all thought he was wonderful and told me how lucky I was and that he would make a wonderful father".

READ NEXT: Rat droppings and dead cockroaches found as ten food businesses across Ireland forced to close

Jane explained that her husband wanted children and that he always talked about having six kids.

"I wanted children too, maybe not six, but I wanted to wait a while because my new job was great and I wanted to get the promotion that was coming up the next year. He said I mustnt love him or I would want to have children with him straight away," she said.

Jane's husband told that she shouldnt take the (contraceptive) pill anymore because it would mean that she didnt want his children.

"He flushed all my pills down the toilet and told me not to get anymore from the doctor. He told me he would know if I was taking them and that he wouldnt be happy with that, he used to check my bag every day before I left for work and when I came home," Jane said.

Every month, her husband would check all the time if her period had come and every month when it did he would get really mad and accuse Jane of taking the pill or getting an injection to stop herself from getting pregnant.

"He would throw things all over the house, breaking stuff, once he kicked a hole in the wall of our bedroom. He wanted to have sex every morning as he said this was the best time to get pregnant, if I said no he would threaten to hurt me.

"After eight months we discovered I was pregnant. He was really happy and told me how much he loved me, I was relieved as now that I was pregnant, his moods would change - he would stop wanting to have sex all the time and checking on me constantly to see that I wasnt taking the pill or lying to him," Jane said.

READ NEXT: 'Beyond humanity': Selfie seekers slammed for taking photos at Michael Gaine's Kerry farm

However things then took a drastic turn and he became more aggressive and violent.

"I was sick for the first three months and was tired all the time. I just wanted to sleep when I wasnt working, but he said I was being selfish and insensitive to him.

"One morning I was in the bathroom being sick and he came in and started yelling, he told me this pregnancy had made me ignore him and that he was sick of me being sick all the time, he picked up the towel and started hitting me with it.

"I pleaded with him to stop, I told him the sickness would pass after three months and that everything would be ok. I felt so confused, he wanted this baby so badly and everyone was telling me about how happy he was that we were pregnant.

"He didnt seem happy to me and I was very unhappy. How could I tell anyone? They all thought the world of him. How could I tell them: this person you think is great does these things to me? I had no words for it.

One morning when Jane was just over five months pregnant, her husband woke up and started kissing her. He climbed on top of her and when she asked him to stop, he got really mad.

"He picked up the phone and started hitting me with it, I tried to get away from him and fell on the floor. He started kicking me in the back, I was so frightened I was trying to hide my stomach, I was so worried about the baby.

"I had bruises all over my back and was so sore from where he had kicked me. Later that day I started to bleed, he took me to the maternity hospital where he told them I had been in a car crash. He cried to all the staff telling them he was so afraid we would lose our baby, he said the crash was his fault and he felt so guilty.

"Later, when he was gone home for the night, I talked to a midwife about what happened, she told me that I should talk to the social worker who could help me to think about what I wanted to do now. The social worker arranged for me to talk with a woman from Womens Aid who helps women who are being hurt by their partners.

"It was so good to talk to people confidentially, people who didnt tell me what to do, but who confirmed what I knew  that what my husband was doing was wrong and that I shouldnt have to experience these things. I got information on how to get legal protection and the woman from Womens Aid came to court with me.

"He was very angry, he called me horrible names and tried to attack me even though my parents were with me, they couldnt believe it. I now live with my parents because he kept coming back to our house.

"I will have our baby and I know I will have to see him then but I am getting stronger now and I hope that the courts will help me to sort out custody and access so that I dont have to see him on my own."

Woman's Aid says that stories like Jane's Story are based on real accounts as told to the Womens Aid National Freephone Helpline and One-to-One Support Services.

Specific details and circumstances have been changed in the interests of protecting identity and to preserve the confidential nature of Womens Aid Services.

If you or anyone you know is affected by domestic abuse, contact Woman's Aid:

Contact the 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900 , seven days a week.

, seven days a week. Message their Instant Message Support Service , mornings and evenings, seven days a week.

, mornings and evenings, seven days a week. Email at helpline@womensaid.ie

Jane's story and more stories like hers can be found here.
THE jobs of 480 workers have been saved after a court approved a rescue plan for Westport-based electrical contractor Instrotec.

Approving the plan drawn up by examiner Joe Walsh of JW Accountants, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds complimented the pragmatic attitude taken by the Revenue Commissioners in deciding to accept the deferment of significant payments due to them in order to save so many jobs.

The court heard that Instrotec was a specialist electrical and instrumentation contractor working on complex projects such as data centres, semiconductor and pharmaceutical facilities as well as oil and gas plants in Ireland and Europe.

It has 172 apprentices on its books, making it one of the largest trainers of skilled workers in the State. Revenues had more than trebled in recent years from 11.7 million in 2020 to 39.2 million in 2023 as the company worked on contracts with industry leaders including Intel, Pfizer, Microsoft, Eli Lilly and MSD.

Survival

THE company got into trouble last year after delays and cost overruns on three specific projects, according to an independent report prepared by Cormac Mohan, an accountant at Fitzwilliam Corporate.

The report said the business, which went into examinership in May, had a reasonable chance of survival. The three projects were Eli Lillys new plant in Limerick, a data centre project in Amsterdam and a Microsoft development in Sweden.

READ: Lidl granted permission to demolish and rebuild Mayo foodstore

Ms Justice Reynolds said the court considered the examiners scheme of arrangement fair and equitable to all parties involved and would protect jobs going forward. She said Revenues attitude was very helpful in ensuring survival of the company.

The court was told that Revenue was not objecting to the scheme of rescue arrangement proposed by Mr Walsh. Counsel for Revenue said the jobs included apprentices and those employed in external agency contracts.

Opportunity

INSTROTEC, which also controls three international subsidiaries in Germany, Denmark and the UK, was founded in 2000 by Donal Johnston and Donna Johnston, who have run the business for 25 years.

Donal, a time-served electrician with extensive instrumentation and control experience, had identified an opportunity in the market for a specialist contractor in the field of electrical instrumentation and instrument pipe fitting.

Instrotec quickly established a reputation in the growing pharmaceutical and microprocessor manufacturing sectors as the foremost contractor for instrumentation and control systems.

In recent years, it had expanded on its existing electrical portfolio to establish a proven track record in the installation of various low and medium voltage electrical systems across a broad range of sectors.

That allowed the Mayo business to provide an all-encompassing service across instrumentation and control, building management and industrial electrical systems.
BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday that the "information cocoon" created by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities is starting to crumble, as people in Taiwan become aware of the real mainland through the internet and social networking services.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks at a press conference in response to some Taiwan media reports alleging that the mainland is using social media to "brainwash" Taiwan youth.

Zhu said that for a long time, the DPP authorities have attempted to block channels for Taiwan compatriots to learn about the mainland and mislead the public.

Thanks to internet penetration and the rapid evolution of social media, netizens on both sides of the Taiwan Strait can now access news faster, see each other's daily lives more easily, and engage in more diverse exchanges, she said.

As a result, the lies about the mainland fabricated by the DPP authorities are gradually being exposed, she added.

Zhu said the mainland is constantly striving to help people of all ages in Taiwan better understand the mainland. She added that Taiwan compatriots, especially young people, are welcome to visit the mainland, and that the mainland is committed to creating better conditions and more opportunities for them to pursue their dreams. 
MANILA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A fuel tanker truck collided with a passenger jeepney in Batangas province, south of Manila, on Wednesday, killing one person and injuring 10 others, the local police said.

The police said the crash, which happened along a highway early Wednesday morning, pinned the jeepney driver and critically wounded some of the passengers.

Initial investigation showed that the truck was swerving to the opposite lane before it hit the approaching jeepney.

The police have been hunting the truck driver who fled the scene, while they have taken his helper into custody for investigation.

Jeepneys are the primary mode of transport for millions of Filipinos across the archipelago, especially in the countryside. 
Pfizer introduces PCV20 in India, a single-dose vaccine protecting adults against 20 pneumococcal disease-causing serotypes.

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Alia Bhatt is currently gearing up for the release of her upcoming period drama Love & War, but she is juggling multiple projects and is also active as a producer.

According to the latest reports, Alia Bhatt is working on her first adult movie in collaboration with Amazon Prime Video.

Following the critical acclaim of Darlings and the lukewarm response to Jigra, Alia Bhatt is now backing a high-concept young adult film for Amazon Prime Video through her production house, Eternal Sunshine Pictures, in collaboration with Chalkboard Entertainment, the banner behind acclaimed titles like Gulmohar, Jaadugar and The Mehta Boys.

The yet-untitled project will be helmed by Sreeti Mukerji, making her directorial debut after having previously assisted Ayan Mukerji on Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Brahmastra.
The Supreme Court of India recently ordered the removal and caging of all stray dogs across the Delhi NCR region, but many users opposed the verdict, claiming that there is a scarcity of dog shelters in the country and that the animals would be treated poorly.

Actors Oppose The Supreme Court Verdict

Not only people, but many actors and celebrities also called out the Supreme Courts verdict on the stray dogs.

Actors like Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, John Abraham, Vir Das and more expressed their concern about the animals.

Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan reposted a petition on Instagram, which stated, They call it a menace. We call it a heartbeat. Today, the Supreme Court says take every stray dog off the streets of Delhi-NCR and lock them away. No sunlight. No freedom. No familiar faces they greet every morning. But these aren't just stray dogs. They are the ones who wait outside your tea stall for a biscuit. They are the silent night guards for shopkeepers. They are the tails wagging when children return from school. They are the warmth in a cold, uncaring city.

She added, Yes, there are problems bites, safety concerns - but caging an entire community of animals is not a solution, it's an erasure. The real fix? Large-scale sterilisation programs, regular vaccination drives, community feeding zones, and adoption campaigns. Not punishment. Not imprisonment. A society that can't protect its voiceless is a society losing its soul. Today it's the dogs. Tomorrow... who will it be? Raise your voice Because they don't have one.
NEW DELHI, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government has approved four new semiconductor manufacturing units in three different states at an estimated cost of 46 billion Indian rupees (around 525 million U.S. dollars), said an official statement.

The approval was given at a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. "Six approved semiconductor projects are already in various stages of execution," said the statement.

It further stated that after Tuesday's four more approvals, the total number of approved projects under the India Semiconductor Mission reaches 10, with cumulative investments of around 1.6 trillion Indian rupees (nearly 18.26 billion U.S. dollars) in six states.

The new semiconductor manufacturing units would come up in the states of Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha and generate a cumulative employment for 2,034 skilled professionals and many indirect jobs, according to the statement. 
ATHENS, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of people staged protests in the Greek port city of Volos on Wednesday against the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship carrying tourists and soldiers, Greek public broadcaster ERT reported.

The demonstrations coincided with the docking of the Crown Iris, which arrived as part of a recreational program for Israeli nationals. The largest rally began early in the morning near the city's KTEL bus terminal, with protesters marching through central streets under a heavy police presence.

A separate gathering, organized by the All-Workers Militant Front (PAME), took place at the commercial port gate, where participants held banners and chanted slogans expressing solidarity with Palestine.

Police blocked key access points to the port, while buses - some marked "out of service" - transported passengers directly from the port to destinations in the wider Magnesia region, including Meteora, archaeological sites, and mountain villages, according to ERT. Riot police escorted several buses to prevent contact between passengers and demonstrators.

Tensions broke out twice during the morning when protesters attempted to break police cordons. Officers responded with pushbacks and stun grenades, ERT said.

The protest in Volos was the latest in a string of similar demonstrations across Greece in recent weeks. In July, activists blocked the Crown Iris from docking on the island of Syros, clashed with riot police on Rhodes, and staged protests in Crete, all opposing visits by Israeli tourists amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. 
SAVANNAH, Ga.  A U.S. Army sergeant accused of shooting five fellow soldiers at a Georgia base was charged Tuesday with attempted murder, aggravated assault and domestic violence as the Army revealed that one of the victims was the suspect's romantic partner.

The charges were issued as Sgt. Quornelius Radford made his first appearance Tuesday in a military courtroom at Fort Stewart, where officials say he opened fire with a personal handgun on members of his supply unit. The hearing officer ordered Radford, 28, to remain in pretrial confinement.

Radford was arrested Aug. 6 after officials say soldiers disarmed and restrained him until military police arrived.

All five of the wounded soldiers survived the attack. Radford was charged with six counts of attempted murder  the sixth referring to a soldier he shot at and missed, said Michelle McCaskill, a spokesperson for the Army's Office of Special Trial Counsel, which is prosecuting Radford.

Radford also faces six counts of aggravated assault and a single count of domestic violence.

That charge is there because one of the victims was the intimate partner of the accused, McCaskill said.

She said she did not know whether Radford's partner was among the five people he wounded. The Army has not released the victims' names.

Fort Stewart officials have declined to comment on the shooter's motives.

Under military law, attempted murder carries a potential penalty of life imprisonment.

Radford was represented by Army defense attorneys at his hearing Tuesday. Phone and email messages left with Fort Stewart's Trial Defense Service were not immediately returned.

Now that hes been charged, Radford faces pretrial proceedings to determine whether there is enough evidence for him to stand trial by court-martial.

The largest Army post east of the Mississippi River, Fort Stewart is home to thousands of soldiers assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division. It is located about 40 miles (64 kilometers) southwest of Savannah.

Radford served as a supply sergeant in the division's 2nd Armored Brigade. Army records show he enlisted in 2018.

Soldiers in Radford's unit said they followed the sound of gunfire into the hallways of an office building where they found hazy gunsmoke in the air and wounded victims on the floor and in nearby offices.

Brig. Gen. John Lubas, the 3rd Infantry's commander, credited soldiers with saving lives by immediately rendering first aid, in some cases using their bare hands to staunch bleeding gunshot wounds.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll visited Fort Stewart the day after the shootings to award Meritorious Service Medals to six soldiers who helped restrain the gunman and treat the victims.
The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned its first oceangoing icebreaker in 25 years on Saturday, a former commercial vessel that will now project national security interests for the country, as well as contribute to search-and-rescue and environmental missions in Arctic waters.

The scheduled ceremony, held in Juneau, Alaska, corresponded with the largest deployment ever of Chinese icebreaking research vessels in the Arctic. Since July, China has sent five icebreakers to the region, according to the maritime publication gCaptain.

The deployments mark the first time China has had more than three research vessels with icebreaking capabilities in the Arctic. Coast Guard officials said over the weekend that two of the ships entered U.S. Arctic territory.

Read Next: 'We're Going to Take Our Capital Back': Trump Calls for DC Deployments Despite Falling Crime Rates

"Storis adds vital capabilities to the U.S. polar icebreaker fleet at a critical time when our adversaries are expanding their activities in near-U.S. waters, and the challenges and threats we face as a nation are growing more complex every day," acting Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday said during the Storis' commissioning ceremony.

The Coast Guard acquired the commercial vessel Aiviq, an oil exploration support vessel built in 2012, for $125 million and modified it for service operations. It is to serve as an additional platform for Arctic operations until the Coast Guard receives the first of three new heavy icebreakers, known as polar security cutters, in 2030.

The vessel was named Storis to honor a cutter that sailed the Bering Sea and Alaskan coast for more than 60 years, its crews saving hundreds of distressed mariners and responding to the nation's biggest earthquake.

The new Storis, WAGB-21, will be homeported in Juneau once the infrastructure is built to accommodate the ship and its crew. In the meantime, it will be housed in Seattle with the service's heavy icebreaker Polar Star and medium icebreaker Healy.

During the commissioning ceremony, Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Troy Edgar said the commissioning of Storis is part of the nation's investment in the Coast Guard, a service that has long operated on a tight budget with few resources for building new ships or maintaining its infrastructure.

The service received an unprecedented $25 billion in the Trump administration's investment legislation known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to invest in vessels, aircraft and shore facilities.

"We really are focused on making sure that our adversaries get a clearer message that we will not back down," Edgar said during the ceremony. "The Coast Guard really protects our border on the North. ... We are drawing a line in the sand."

The effort for the U.S. to buy a commercial icebreaker for Coast Guard use was first floated roughly a decade ago, but it was made possible through the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 and finally funded in the service's fiscal 2024 appropriations legislation.

Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, has been working on the project since 2020. During the ceremony Saturday, he said the Storis is an important component of national security.

"This region is undergoing monumental change. Sea ice is receding. New trade routes are opening. Vast reserves of natural resources are becoming accessible. And our adversaries are moving fast to assert control," Sullivan said. "These are not one-offs. These are warning signs. If we're not ready to lead in the Arctic, others will -- and they'll be happy to do it for us."

The Coast Guard gave tours of the Storis last weekend. It departed Juneau on Monday heading for Seward, according to the Marine Traffic ship-tracking website.

The service also commissioned a new fast patrol cutter in Kodiak, Alaska, on Monday -- the Earl Cunningham, which is the Coast Guard's 59th ship of its type. The cutter is named for a surfman who died on Lake Michigan in 1936 trying to rescue two ice fishermen who were trapped in the ice.

He received the Gold Lifesaving Medal posthumously for his bravery, according to the Coast Guard.

Related: Coast Guard Drops Numbered Districts, Adopts Geographical Names for Operating Areas
KYIV, Ukraine  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the leader categorically rejected.

Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focusing on ending the war have not touched on security guarantees for Ukraine to prevent future Russian aggression and that meeting formats currently being discussed do not include Europes participation, both key demands of Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Russian forces on the ground have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk.

Zelenskyy said the necessity of territorial concessions was conveyed to him by U.S. officials ahead of a summit Friday between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and in further meetings at the level of national security officials.

It remained unclear whether Ukraine would take part in the Friday summi t. European Union also have been sidelined from the meeting, and they appealed to Trump on Tuesday to protect their interests.

Zelenskyy says Ukraine will not withdraw from the Donbas

Zelenskyy said Putin wants the remaining 9,000 square kilometers (3,500 square miles) of Donetsk under Kyivs control, where the wars toughest battles are grinding on, as part of a ceasefire plan, in a press briefing on Tuesday in Kyiv.

Doing so would hand Russia almost the entirety of the Donbas, a region comprising Ukraines eastern industrial heartland that Putin has long coveted.

Zelenskyy learned of Russia's position after holding a call with Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff, after the latters bilateral meeting with Putin. Witkoff told Zelenskyy that Russia was ready to end the war and that there should be territorial concessions from both sides. Some European partners were also part of the call.

And that, probably, Putin wants us to leave Donbas. That is, it didnt sound like America wants us to leave, he said, recounting the call.

Zelenskyy reiterated that withdrawing from Ukraine-controlled territory was out of the question, especially as the question of security guarantees for Ukraine, were not being discussed.

We will not leave Donbas. We cannot do this. Everyone forgets the first part - our territories are illegally occupied, Zelenskyy told reporters at a briefing on Tuesday. Donbas for the Russians is a springboard for a future new offensive."

Zelenskyy said this is what occurred in 2014 when Russia illegally annexed the Crimean Peninsula.

Seeking Trumps ear before the summit

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year.

The U.S. president has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the EU, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

Referring to the format for ceasefire talks, Zelenskyy said on Tuesday that the U.S. proposed a bilateral meeting, between the U.S. and Russia, and then a trilateral meeting that would include Ukraine. Zelenskyy said the presence of Europe was important for Kyiv because these were the only partners offering security guarantees, including funding the Ukrainian army.

European countries overarching fear is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Their leaders said Tuesday they welcome the efforts of President Trump towards ending Russias war of aggression against Ukraine. But, they underlined, the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine and international borders must not be changed by force.

The Europeans on Wednesday will make a fresh attempt to rally Trump to Ukraines cause at virtual meetings convened by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Trump did not confirm whether he would take part but did say Im going to get everybodys ideas before meeting with Putin.

Russia holds shaky control over four of the countrys regions, two in the countrys east and two in the south.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the chief of Zelenskyys office, said anything short of Russias strategic defeat would mean that any ceasefire deal would be on Moscows terms, erode international law and send a dangerous signal to the world.

A profoundly alarming moment for Europe

Trumps seemingly public rehabilitation of Putin  a pariah in most of Europe  has unnerved Ukraines backers.

The summit in Alaska is a profoundly alarming moment for Europe, said Nigel Gould-Davies, senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London.

According to Gould-Davies, Putin might persuade Trump to try to end the war by accepting Russian sovereignty over parts of Ukraine, even beyond areas that it currently occupies. Trump also could ease or lift sanctions which are causing chronic pain to the Russian economy.

That would provoke a really serious split in the transatlantic alliance," he said.

The war isnt about Russias territorial expansion but about Putins goal of subordinating Ukraine, which would create the opportunity to threaten other parts of Europe, Gould-Davies said.

It was unclear whether the Europeans also were unsettled by Trump mistakenly saying twice he would be traveling to Russia on Friday to meet Putin. The summit is taking place in the U.S. state of Alaska, which was colonized by Russia in the 18th century until Czar Alexander II sold it to the U.S. in 1867.

Tuesdays European joint statement was meant to be a demonstration of unity. But Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is Putins closest ally in Europe and has tried to block EU support for Ukraine, was the only one of the blocs 27 leaders who refused to endorse it.

Russia plans prepares for new offensive, closes in on Pokrovsk

Russia appeared closer to taking an important city in the Donetsk region, Pokrovsk.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles said the next 24-48 hours could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit. It also would complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

A lot will depend on availability, quantity and quality of Ukrainian reserves, Pasi Paroinen, an analyst with the Finland-based Black Bird Group, wrote on social media late Monday.

Ukraines military said its forces are fending off Russian infantry units trying to infiltrate their defensive positions in the Donetsk region. The regions Ukrainian military command on social media Monday acknowledged that the situation remains difficult, unpleasant and dynamic.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, a Russian missile attack on a military training facility left one soldier dead and 11 others wounded, the Ukrainian Ground Forces posted on social media.

___

Associated Press writer Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Emma Burrows in London contributed to this report. Cook reported from Brussels.
WATERLOO, Iowa  John-Paul Sager appreciates the care he has received at Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics, but he thinks it should be easier for veterans like him to use their benefits elsewhere.

Sager, a Marine Corps and Army veteran, uses his VA coverage for non-VA treatment of back injuries stemming from his military service. But he said he sometimes must make several phone calls to obtain approval to see a local chiropractor. It seems like it takes entirely too long, he said.

Many veterans live hours from VA facilities, or they need health services that arent readily available from the VA. In such cases, the department is supposed to provide a referral and pay for private care. Critics say it often hesitates to do so.

Republicans controlling Congress aim to streamline the process of obtaining what is known as community care.

Two Republican senators have introduced legislation that would make it easier for rural veterans to seek care at local hospitals and clinics. The proposals would build on VA community care programs that started under Democratic President Barack Obama and were expanded in Trumps first term.

Critics worry that steering veterans to private care facilities drains federal money from the VA hospital and clinic system. But supporters say veterans shouldnt be forced to travel long distances or wait months for the treatment they could obtain at local hospitals and clinics.

My main concern is for veterans, not for the VA, Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) told KFF Health News. I dont believe we have an obligation to sustain the bureaucracy.

About 9 million veterans are enrolled in the VA health system. Last year, about 3 million of them  including 1.2 million rural veterans  used their benefits to cover care at non-VA facilities, according to data provided by the department.

Cramer sponsored a bill that would allow veterans who live within 35 miles of a rural, critical access hospital to use VA benefits to cover care there or at affiliated clinics without referrals from VA staff.

Cramer, who serves on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, noted his state has just one VA hospital. Its in Fargo, on the states eastern border, which is more than 400 miles by car from parts of western North Dakota.

Many North Dakota veterans drive past multiple community hospitals to get to the VA hospital for treatment, he said. Meanwhile, many rural hospitals are desperate for more patients and income. I kept thinking to myself, This doesnt make any sense at all, Cramer said.

Cramer said previous laws, including the VA Mission Act, made it easier for veterans to use their benefits to cover care at community hospitals and clinics.

But he said veterans still must fill out too much paperwork and obtain approval from VA staffers to use non-VA facilities.

We cant let the VA itself determine whether a veteran is qualified to receive local care, he said.

U.S. Rep. Mark Takano of California, who is the top Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said he sees the need for outside care for some veterans. But he contends Republicans are going overboard in shifting the departments money to support private health care facilities.

The VA provides specialized care that responds to veterans needs and experiences, he argues.

We must prevent funds from being siphoned away from veterans hospitals and clinics, or VA will crumble, Takano said in a statement released by his office. Veterans cannot afford for us to dismantle VA direct care in favor of shifting more care to the community.

Some veterans advocacy groups have also expressed concerns.

Jon Retzer, deputy national legislative director for the Disabled American Veterans, said the group wants to make it easier for veterans to find care. Rural and female veterans can have a particularly tough time finding appropriate, timely services at VA hospitals and clinics, he said. But the Disabled American Veterans doesnt want to see VA facilities weakened by having too much federal money diverted to private hospitals and clinics.

Retzer said its true that patients sometimes wait for VA care, but so do patients at many private hospitals and clinics. Most delays stem from staff shortages, he said, which afflict many health facilities. This is a national crisis.

Retzer said the Disabled American Veterans favors continuing to require referrals from VA physicians before veterans can seek VA-financed care elsewhere. We want to ensure that the VA is the primary provider of that care, he said.

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins has pledged to improve the community care program while maintaining the strength of the departments hospitals and clinics. The department declined a KFF Health News request to interview Collins.

Marcus Lewis, CEO of First Care Health Center, which includes a hospital in Park River, North Dakota, supports Cramers bill. Lewis is a Navy veteran who uses the VAs community care option to pay for treatment of a back injury stemming from his military service.

Overall, Lewis said, the community care program has become easier to use. But the application process remains complicated, and participants must repeatedly obtain VA referrals for treatment of chronic issues, he said. Its frustrating.

Park River is a 1,400-person town about 50 miles south of the Canadian border. Its 14-bed hospital offers an array of services, including surgery, cancer care, and mental health treatment. But Lewis regularly sees a VA van picking up local veterans, some of whom travel 140 miles to Fargo for care theyre entitled to receive locally.

I think a lot of folks just dont want to fight the system, he said. They dont want to go through the extra hoops, and so theyll jump in the van, and theyll ride along.

Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said veterans in some areas of the country have had more trouble than others in getting VA approval for care from private clinics and hospitals.

Bost helped gain the Houses approval for Trumps request for $34.7 billion for the community care program in 2026. Although spending on the program has gone up and down in recent years, the appropriation represents an increase of about 50% from what it was in 2025 and 2022. The Senate included similar figures for next year in its version of a military spending budget that passed Aug. 1.

Bost also co-sponsored a House bill that would spell out requirements for the VA to pay for community care.

Sager hopes the new proposals make life easier for veterans. The Gulf War veteran lives in the northeastern Iowa town of Denver. He travels about 15 miles to Waterloo to see a chiropractor, who treats him for back and shoulder pain from injuries he suffered while training Saudi troops in hand-to-hand combat.

Sager, who remains active in the Army Reserve, also visits a Waterloo outpatient clinic run by the VA, where his primary care doctor practices. He appreciates the agencys mission, including its employment of many veterans. You just feel like youre being taken care of by your own, he said.

He believes the VA can run a strong hospital and clinic system while offering alternatives for veterans who live far from those facilities or who need care the VA cant promptly provide.

The local VA doesnt offer chiropractic care, so it pays for Sager to visit the private clinic. But every few months, he needs to obtain fresh approval from the VA. That often requires several phone calls, he said.

Sager is one of about a dozen veterans who use the community care program to pay for visits at Vanderloo Chiropractic Clinic, office manager Linda Gill said.

Gill said the VA program pays about $34 for a typical visit, which is comparable to private insurance, but the paperwork is more burdensome. She said leaders of the chiropractic practice considered pulling out of the VA program but decided to put up with the hassles for a good cause. She wishes veterans didnt have to jump through so many hoops to obtain convenient care.

After what theyve done for us? Please, she said.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.

Subscribe to KFF Health News' free Morning Briefing.

This article first appeared on KFF Health News and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
More than four months after the U.S. Air Force Academy announced it no longer would consider race as a factor in its admissions process, the Justice Department said Tuesday a settlement has been reached between the Colorado Springs academy and a conservative nonprofit whose years long lawsuit challenged the schools now-abandoned affirmative-action policies.

The settlement closes the book on litigation against both the Air Force Academy and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., filed by Students For Fair Admissions, the group whose successful challenge of such practices won over the nations top justices and swiftly  after Trump was sworn in for a second time  became a cause celebre for the new administration.

This Department is committed to eliminating (diversity, equity and inclusion) practices throughout the federal government, Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in the Justice Department release. We are proud to partner with the Department of Defense to permanently end race-based admissions at West Point and the Air Force Academy  admission to these prestigious military institutions should be based exclusively on merit.

The recent settlement, and dismissal of the suits, includes agreed upon terms that, according to the Justice Department, help ensure future admission to both prestigious institutions eschews anything with a hint of diversity, equity and inclusion motivations, with enrollment based exclusively on merit, not race or ethnicity.

America is the land of equal opportunity, in spirit and in law, Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in the Tuesday press release from the Justice Department. Todays agreement ensures that our future military leaders will carry on the greatness that is born of opportunity, effort, and a level playing field.

Enrollment practices that factored in race when evaluating potential candidates for jobs or school admissions became embedded practice in the U.S. starting in many places and sectors in the 1980s, part of nationwide  and increasingly mandated  efforts to boost opportunities for Black, Hispanic and other minorities whod faced historic discrimination in America.

The settlement echoed one previously reached between Students for Fair Admissions and the U.S. Naval Academy. The Annapolis, M.D., military school similarly shut down DEI initiatives earlier this year in line with the Trump directive.

Founded in 2014 by affirmative-action opponent Edward Blum, Students for Fair Admissions has continued moves that build on its Supreme Court victory in 2023, when the 6-3 conservative majority invalidated race-conscious admissions policies used by Harvard and the University of North Carolina.

At the Air Force Academy's Board of Visitors meeting on Thursday, members including Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, questioned the school's leadership closely about the role of race and ethnicity in the admissions policy.

Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, the Air Force Academy superintendent, explained that race and ethnicity did not receive any formal scoring weight as part of the admissions process through an "affirmative-action formula."

"For many years, there was a conversation of that 'as you consider the committee score, you will take into consideration the background of the young Americans,'" he explained.

Now, the academy is weighing whether it will even collect an applicant's race as a data point in the application process, Bauernfeind said.

Gazette's Mary Shinn contributed to this report.

 2025 The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.). Visit www.gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Unsure whether they would ever step on solid ground again, a distressed group of mariners huddled above the imposing waves that thrashed their broken ship.

A menacing nor'easter pummeled the SS Pendleton on Feb. 18, 1952, causing the oil tanker to be broken in two a mile off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The captain and seven crewmen were in the bow, or front, of the ship while the other 33 seamen on board were in the stern (rear), according to author and historian Michael Tougias, who wrote The Finest Hours, the historical account that inspired the movie of the same name.

Forty feet above the ocean, those in the stern watched helplessly as their shipmates in the bow slipped away, never to be seen again, according to an obituary for one of the Coast Guard crew members that was published in The New York Times.

Twenty miles from where the Pendleton split, the same nor'easter improbably claimed another tanker on that horrible day. Unlike the Pendleton's crew, the mariners on the Fort Mercer sent a distress message alerting officials on shore of their crisis. Because of that, five large Coast Guard cutters, a Navy ship and a reconnaissance plane braved brutal storm conditions in search of the Fort Mercer, according to historian W. Russell Webster, co-author of "The Pendleton Disaster off Cape Cod." Thirty-eight of the 43 men on the Fort Mercer were later rescued.

The stern section of the ill-fated tanker S.S. Pendleton, which cracked in 2 during a storm, lies on a sandbar off the coast of Chatham, Mass, Feb. 19, 1952. (AP Photo)

Since it was unable to send out a call for help, the Pendleton wasn't so fortunate to receive such a robust response. It wasn't until a radar station detected four large hulks in the water that it became clear that two tankers actually had fallen victim to the stormy seas, according to The New York Times.

Read Next: How This Airman Survived 3 Months in the Alaskan Wilderness After a World War II Plane Crash

With so many resources devoted to rescuing the men on the Fort Mercer, a patchwork crew at nearby Chatham Lifeboat Station was assembled to search for the Pendleton. Boatswain's Mate First Class Bernie Webber led a four-man search party that included Petty Officer Third Class Andrew Fitzgerald and Seamen Richard Livesey and Ervin Maske.

As their 36-foot motorized lifeboat, the CG 36500, moved away from shore in the early evening on Feb. 18, the crew felt some trepidation. Their nervousness only grew when they looked into the distance and observed waves as tall as mountains, Webber recalled in a 1967 interview with a Cape Cod radio station.

"The boat seemed smaller than ever to me at that moment," Webber said in the interview. "Perhaps a little panic set in, and I said, 'Well, can I turn back? Shall I go ahead? What's to be done?'"

Coxswain Bernie Webber and 3 other Coast Guardsmen saved 32 mariners off the damaged oil tanker Pendleton on Feb. 18, 1952, in what some consider the greatest small-boat rescue in the service's history. (Wikimedia Commons)

One of those monstrous waves struck the CG 36500 with such force that it hoisted the lifeboat into the air and flipped it around. The impact shattered its windshield, knocked Webber -- who was steering the boat -- off his feet and destroyed the ships only compass. Those setbacks didn't deter Webber as he valiantly tried to maneuver the boat against seas that rose as high as 60 feet.

In the interview, Webber recalled asking Fitzgerald to go to the front of the boat and turn on a small searchlight so he could see over the bow. As Fitzgerald complied, another wave battered the CG 36500, tossing him into the air.

Webber lost sight of Fitzgerald.

"My heart went down [to] my feet," Webber said in the radio interview. "I said, 'My God, I've lost Andy. He's been washed overboard.' Another sea hit us, and a tremendous thump came behind me, and I looked, and here was Andy Fitzgerald lying on the deck down behind me."

It wasn't the only time Fitzgerald put himself at risk during the CG 36500's perilous journey. When its waterlogged motor cut off in the stormy conditions, Fitzgerald went into the small engine compartment to restart it. Because of the cramped quarters, Fitzgerald could not avoid brushing against the engine as it started and severely burned his back, Webber recounted to the station's listeners.

Webber, who served in the U.S. Merchant Marine during World War II before joining the Coast Guard in 1946, was struggling as well. As Webber battled the waves with no windshield in front of him, snow pelted his face. Without precisely knowing where they were going, the CG 36500's crew was drawing closer to the wrecked Pendleton.

Webber didn't realize how close they were until he asked Fitzgerald to turn on the searchlight again, he said in the radio interview. Once they could see through the nighttime darkness, they saw the giant stern of the Pendleton looming over them.

"If I had gone another 50 feet, I would have run right into it," Webber recalled.

Finding the Pendleton was only the beginning. Now Webber and his crew had to figure out how to get the cluster of men clad in orange life jackets down from high above into their boat. With room under normal circumstances for no more than 16 people, according to the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the CG 36500 was never intended for such a large-scale rescue.

The original crew of CG 36500 sets sail again 50 years later in commemoration of the anniversary of the tanker Pendleton rescue off the coast of Chatham, Mass., in February 1952. (Public Affairs Specialist 3rd Class Amy Thomas/U.S. Coast Guard photo)

The Pendleton's crew tossed a rope ladder over the damaged ship's side and began their descent. As they did, Webber strived to position his boat properly. Afraid he would smash the CG 36500 into the Pendleton, he exercised caution and said he normally would make two or three passes for each survivor. While some men jumped off the ladder and landed on the lifeboat's deck, others had to be retrieved from the rolling sea.

In all, Webber and his crew saved 32 of 33 men, cramming them into whatever empty space they could find onboard. Not long after the last survivor stepped aboard CG 36500, the hulking stern of the Pendleton sank.

"The ship rolled right down toward us, and it seemed like the lights came right into my face," Webber recalled 15 years after the incident. "They were so close. Evidently, the ship took a heavy roll, and then it rolled back and just disappeared from us. I saw it happen in an instant."

For their actions, Webber, Fitzgerald, Livesey and Maske received the U.S. Coast Guards Gold Lifesaving Medal.

Want to Know More About the Coast Guard?

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**Title: Galaxy S6 Contact Rescue: Your Simple Extraction Guide**







(How To Get Contacts Off A Sumsung Galaxy S6)

**Main Product Keywords:** Contacts, Samsung Galaxy S6

**1. What Exactly Are We Extracting?**

Think of your Samsung Galaxy S6 contacts like your digital address book. They hold names, numbers, email addresses, sometimes even notes or birthdays. Extracting them means safely copying this information *off* your phone. Youre not deleting it, just making a copy you can move somewhere else. This copy could be a file (like a .vcf) stored on a memory card or your computer, or it could be synced securely online to services like your Google account. Understanding this is key before you start moving things around. You need to know what youre dealing with. Its all your important connections in one digital place.

**2. Why Bother Saving Your Galaxy S6 Contacts?**

Phones dont last forever. Your trusty Galaxy S6 might be replaced, lost, or simply stop working one day. If your contacts live *only* on that phone, you lose them all. Extracting them prevents this disaster. Moving to a new phone? Having your contacts saved makes the switch incredibly smooth. You avoid typing in hundreds of numbers again. Backing them up online gives you peace of mind. You can access them from any device, even if your S6 isnt handy. Its about control and safety for your essential connections. Dont risk losing those numbers forever.

**3. How to Actually Pull Contacts Off Your Galaxy S6**

Getting contacts off your S6 is easier than you think. Try these methods:

* **Google Sync (Best for Cloud Backup):** Open your S6s Settings. Tap Accounts and backup, then Accounts. Choose your Google account. Make sure Contacts sync is turned ON. Your contacts copy automatically to your Google account online. Find them later at contacts.google.com or on any new Android phone logged into that account.

* **Samsung Account Sync:** Open Settings. Go to Accounts and backup, then Accounts. Tap your Samsung account. Ensure Contacts sync is enabled. This backs them up to Samsung Cloud.

* **Export to SD Card:** Insert a microSD card. Open the Contacts app. Tap the three dots (menu) and choose Manage contacts, then Import/Export contacts. Select Export. Choose SD card as the destination. Tap Export again. Your contacts save as a single .vcf file on the card. Remove the card and plug it into a computer or new phone to access the file.

* **Samsung Smart Switch:** Install Smart Switch on your computer (Windows or Mac). Connect your S6 to the computer with a USB cable. Open Smart Switch. Choose Backup. Make sure Contacts is selected. Click Backup. This saves your contacts to your computer. You can later restore them to a new phone using Smart Switch.

* **Manual Export via Contacts App:** Open Contacts. Tap the menu (three dots). Go to Manage contacts, then Import/Export. Select Export to storage. Choose Internal storage or SD card if you have one. Confirm Export. A .vcf file saves in your phones storage. Connect your phone to a computer via USB to find and copy this file.

**4. Applications: Where Your Extracted Contacts Shine**

So youve got your contacts safely off the Galaxy S6. What now? The uses are practical and powerful. Moving to a brand new phone? Importing that saved .vcf file or syncing your Google account puts all your contacts back instantly. No manual entry needed. Switching from Android to iPhone? Your Google contacts sync easily with iOS. Lost your S6 or it broke? Restore your contacts from the cloud backup to your replacement device in minutes. Keeping a separate backup file on your computer or cloud storage (like Dropbox) is extra insurance. You can even clean up or edit your contacts list easily on a computer before putting them on a new phone.

**5. FAQs: Your Galaxy S6 Contact Questions Answered**

* **Is using Google safe for my contacts?** Generally, yes. Google encrypts your data. Your contacts are tied to your account password. Its a secure and convenient way to back up and access them across devices. You control the data.

* **Whats this .vcf file? Can I open it?** A .vcf (vCard) file is the standard format for contact information. You usually dont open it directly. You import it *into* another contacts app (on a new phone, computer email program like Outlook, or web services like Gmail).

* **Can I wipe my S6 after extracting contacts?** Absolutely! Once youve confirmed your contacts are safely backed up (check Google Contacts online or have the .vcf file saved elsewhere), you can factory reset your S6 to sell it or recycle it without worry.

* **Why do I see duplicate contacts after importing?** This happens if you import a .vcf file *and* have contacts syncing from an account (like Google). The phone sees two copies. Go into your Contacts app settings. Look for options like Manage contacts or Contacts to display. Choose to show only contacts from your Google account (or Samsung account) to hide the duplicates. You can merge duplicates later.







(How To Get Contacts Off A Sumsung Galaxy S6)

* **The export/import didnt get everything!** Double-check what you selected during export. Ensure All contacts was chosen. Also, some apps (like WhatsApp) store contacts separately within the app itself. The main Contacts app export usually grabs your phonebook entries. Check app-specific settings if you need those numbers saved too.

Inquiry us

if you want to want to know more, please feel free to contact us. ([email protected])
TALLINN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Estonia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared the first secretary of the Russian Embassy in Tallinn "persona non grata" on Wednesday and demanded the diplomat's departure from the country.

The ministry accused the Russian diplomat of engaging in undermining Estonia's constitutional order and legal system, sowing division in society, and violating the sanctions regime.

The ministry has officially informed the Russian charge d'affaires about the decision.

In response to Estonia's allegation and expulsion, Russia's Foreign Ministry said later on Wednesday that it has "almost grown accustomed to hostile actions from Estonia" and vowed to take retaliatory steps, according to reports by The Moscow Times.

Estonia's relations with Russia have deteriorated since the Ukraine crisis broke out in 2022. The two countries downgraded their diplomatic relations and ordered their ambassadors to leave their respective embassies in 2023. 
Food Network star Tyler Florence will be at the Traverse City Food & Wine events, which run Aug. 20-24. Photo courtesy of Tyler Florence and Jason Perry Photography

TRAVERSE CITY, MI - Long before he was a celebrated chef, a restaurant owner or a popular host on Food Network shows, Tyler Florence was a young culinary student who had just landed an internship in Northern Michigan.

And in between his many early-morning line cook shifts at Grand Traverse Resort and the hours he spent honing his butchering skills, he learned to love this Up North spot known for its beautiful bays.

But it wasnt always an easy love. Florence remembers he was living in a farmhouse about a mile from the resort that fall and winter, and he had no car. He relied on friends for rides, but often found himself on foot.

I would have to walk back and forth, he laughed at the memory during a recent interview with MLive. Wed get that lake-effect snow. It would snow 8 inches every Friday.

But I really did just fall in love with it, Florence said of the Traverse City area. It is so incredibly beautiful and it was the first time Id seen the Northern Lights."

Tyler Florence, a celebrity chef and TV star, will be headlining a few of the Traverse City Food & Wine events this month. Photo courtesy of Tyler Florence and Jason Perry Photography

Now its Florences turn to light up the town. Hes making a return trip to the area along with a group of high-profile chefs and cuisine experts who are headlining the brand new Traverse City Food & Wine event. This five-day celebration, from Aug. 20-24, spans the best of this vacation destinations booming agritourism scene. There will be vineyard tours, outdoor cooking demonstrations, wine sipping on boats and a Grand Tasting event at the citys biggest waterfront venue.

Some of the events have sold out, but tickets to others are still available. To see the full list of events, you can check the schedule on the website here. Ticket prices are listed with each event. You can purchase tickets online here.

Florence said hes looking forward to coming back to Traverse City. In the decades since his internship here, hes amassed an amazing resume. His TV cooking shows have been a Food Network staple for nearly 30 years, including Tylers Ultimate and 18 seasons of The Great Food Truck Race. A prolific author, he also owns restaurants in San Francisco and Hawaii.

His Food & Wine events will include:

Tyler Florences American Grill on Aug. 22: This live-fire cooking demo will focus on what he calls his summertime classics. Hell showcase his famous BBQ chicken, and his mother-in-laws favorite potato salad recipe.

Wine Pairing Dinner on Aug. 22: This event, hosted by Grand Traverse Resort, is sold out.

The Grand Tasting on Aug. 23: The celebrations main event, held in the waterfront Open Space park. Bonobo Winery owners Carter Oosterhouse and Amy Smart will be on stage interviewing Florence and keeping the party moving. Sips, bites, live cooking demos and fabulous views will all be on display here.

If Florence gets some free time during this Traverse City trip, dont expect to see him putting his feet up at the beach. Hes a busy guy - and he likes it that way. Even on vacation, its a chance to explore, to taste things. ... If we get a chance to take a break in Traverse City, theres some sausage makers there I want to talk to, and I want to hang out with the chefs.

Were just excited to come back, he said. It meant so much to me then, and well kind of get a chance to come back and celebrate a successful career now.
Silver Lake State Park is inviting equestrians to enjoy the off season on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes by taking a shoreline ride over the dunes and along Lake Michigan. (Photos Courtesy of Pure Michigan) Pure Michigan

MEARS, MI -- See Lake Michigan from a new vantage point: horseback.

Silver Lake State Park is once again inviting equestrians to enjoy the off season at Silver Lake Sand Dunes by taking a shoreline ride over the dunes and along the lake.

Shoreline horseback riding season picks up in November, just as ORV ends in October, and runs throughout the whole month.

Heres what to know before traversing the sand dunes on horseback.

Reservation process opens Sept. 1 for shoreline riding

Horseback riders can make reservations starting 8 a.m. Sept 1. Riders must bring their own horses.

The cost is $10 per horse per day, with 125 slots available daily throughout November (except Thanksgiving).

More than 2,400 registrations have been sold each season, according to Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends.

A valid Recreation Passport is required for vehicles, and the vehicles license plate must match the reservation. Vehicles may enter the equestrian staging area (or parking lot) between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

While reservations can be canceled, they are nonrefundable and nontransferable. Reservations can be made through MiDNRReservations.com or by calling 1-800-447-2757.

Riders follow a predetermined route through unique dune landscape

The horseback riding experience takes place on a signed route, 1.1 miles through the dunes to the 3 mile trail along the Lake Michigans shoreline.

Horses should be conditioned for at least a 5-10 mile ride. While on the dunes, riders are advised to walk or shuffle when climbing dunes rather than loping or cantering uphill.

Riders should avoid running uphill with their horses as this can cause horses to dig deeper in the sand and be more strenuous, according to Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends.

Prepare for weather, clean-up and lodging

Gates are open for Registered Participants from 8:00a.m. - 5:30 p.m. every day, November 1-30, regardless of the weather. It is the visitors discretion to enter the dunes.

Riders should be prepared for an ever-changing environment where drifts and freezing conditions can drastically alter the landscape overnight.

They should also have the appropriate layers to dress in, including helmet, gloves, jacket, long pants and boots.

Registered participants are asked to bring their own manure forks and muck buckets to clean up their own hay and manure in the Equestrian Parking Area.

The Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends website has more information on horse camping and stall options. You can also find information on the groups Facebook.
Artist Adnan Charara and University of Michigan robotics professor Patricia Alves-Oliveira pose in front of a painting made by Charara and a robot as part of a University of Michigan research project at UMs Ford Robotics Building in Ann Arbor on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

Adnan Charara was painting a face, cartoonish and off kilter.

The robot arm on the table next to him was painting blue splotches all over the same canvas.

Charara, a Lebanon-born artist who now works in Detroit, was going with it, blending the blue into the painting as best he could.

It brought me back to working with my daughter when she was two years old, he said. I have a painting that I dedicated to her. She would draw on it and Id change it, then shed draw on it, then Id change it. It was this constant trying to understand the other person or keep them engaged.

This wasnt only an exercise in collaboration but an experiment in a new form of authentication, designed for an art world altered by artificial intelligence.

Though he hadnt been given all the details at the time he was painting, Charara was one of eight artists brought to a robotics laboratory at the University of Michigan for a robot-assisted experiment in recording their style and process, providing the sorts of markers that might one day be used to find pieces of an artists work blended into artwork produced by AI.

Artist Adnan Charara works a robot to create paintings for a University of Michigan research project at UMs Ford Robotics Building in Ann Arbor on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

The vision for this project is to be able to authenticate artwork while its being produced and not just in the outcome, said Patricia Alves-Oliveira, the director of Robot Studio at UM and the lead researcher on the project.

If were able to distill or segment each brushstroke in the canvas then were able to identify the artist, even if the painting is incomplete or even if a portion of the painting is used by the generative AI to create a different painting, she said.

But brushstrokes werent the only information in play. The experiment was set up to gather biometric data: heart rate, gaze patterns, pupil dilation.

And then theres the matter of the robot arm.

Alves-Oliveiras specialty is human-robot interaction, how we get along with machines that sometimes look and move a lot like us.

Shes worked on robots designed to capture real-time stress in high schools, on a robot dubbed YOLO (Your Own Living Object) meant to stimulate creativity in children, robots to support the mental health of juvenile detainees.

In this case, the robot arm was meant to press up against an artists style, to introduce some disturbances or elements in the painting that dont really go in the same style, Alves-Oliveira said.

The artists could tell the robot to stop, to pause, to switch colors. The assumption is that they would intervene mostly where it mattered, when the robot ran roughshod over the things that made an artwork distinctly theirs.

It wasnt painting at random. The Russian abstract painter Wassily Kandinsky had a theory of fundamental associations between colors and shapes. In the most basic form, its blue circles, red squares and yellow triangles.

Well do one, two, three with each of these, said Nilay Roy Choudhury, a robotics masters degree student working on the project. He was pointing at a sheet of paper filled with swatches of color next to the shapes Kandinsky would have associated with them. To see how they respond.

The project is being funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the research and development arm of the Pentagon.

Biometrics authentication has the advantage of establishing an unbreakable one-to-one correspondence between an individual and a piece of data, making this research relevant for security of cyber and physical systems, Alves-Oliveira said.

Insights on authenticity and authentication markers can be used to trace human-robot interaction, chatbots, and other computer-generated outcomes, she said, which is where the project intersects with DARPA goals.

Alves-Oliveira arrived at the project differently. Shed been disturbed by news coverage of generative AI, of digital artists and writers worrying that theyd be replaced.

A robot paints a collaborative painting with artist Adnan Charara as part of a University of Michigan research project at UMs Ford Robotics Building in Ann Arbor on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

But sooner or later, she thought, generative AI that is digital will become tangible, will be able to do what our robot does in the future. And this will worry artists that produce things in tangible media.

I want to work on the future, she said. How can we prevent that or at least help credit the artists?
Daylight Saving Time takes place each year on the second Sunday of March until the first Sunday in November. (MLive file photo) Mitchell Kukulka

Fall may still be several weeks away, but that doesnt mean its too early to start thinking about the end of Daylight Saving Time. The next time the biannual event takes place is on Nov. 2, 2025.

DST takes place each year on the second Sunday of March until the first Sunday in November. While DST was observed in some area, the tradition became official in the U.S. in 1966 when the Uniform Time Act of 1966 was passed.

Each March, Americans are reminded to move their clocks ahead one hour as they spring forward. Then in November, the clocks fall back an hour, leading to an extra hour of sleep that night. While most electronics will automatically adjust the time, Americans are reminded to change the time of their stove, microwave, car radio, in-home radio and clocks that hang on a wall.

While the practice has been in place for nearly 60 years, there have been several efforts in recent years to end the event. While none of them has held up in Congress, a bill was introduced in January that once again calls for the end of Daylight Saving Time. The bill would set a permanent standard time and allows for states with areas exempt from daylight saving time to choose the standard time for those areas.
Dexter Schools Superintendent Chris Timmis speaks during Dexter High School's commencement at Al Ritt Field in Dexter on Friday, June 4, 2021. Jacob Hamilton | The Ann Arbor News

Seven individuals, including a few long-time educators familiar with local schools in Dexter and Muskegon, are in line to interview for the job of Michigans next state superintendent.

The Michigan Department of Education announced the slate of candidates on Tuesday, Aug. 12, after they were selected from among 33 applications reviewed by state school officials to replace the outgoing State Superintendent Michael Rice.
Pride themed buttons during the first Grand Haven Pride Festival in Grand Haven, Michigan on Saturday, June 10, 2023. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com) Joel Bissell | MLive.com

GRAND HAVEN, MI  A Grand Haven church had its pride flag returned after it was allegedly stolen last weekend.

St. Johns Episcopal Church, located at 524 Washington Avenue, said the flag was taken just before 1 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9.

Church officials posted video footage of two young women allegedly taking the pride flag down on its Facebook page, asking those who may recognize them to contact the Grand Haven Department of Public Safety.

In an update on Aug. 12, church director Jared Cramer said the flag had been returned with a card that contains an apology and a donation to the ministry.

We offer forgiveness. We are not going to press charges, Cramer said in a video on social media.

Cramer said people reached out to show their support for the church after the flag was stolen.

Its wonderful to know ... that there are so many good people out there who want to stand alongside of us, Cramer said.

The first Grand Haven pride festival was in 2023, and it has returned annually since. The city of Grand Haven recognized June as Pride Month earlier this year.
A South Korean court issued a warrant to detain Kim Keon-hee, wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who has been kept in custody on insurrection and other charges, a special counsel team said Tuesday night.








Students go through a lunch line at Muskegon High School in this file photo. It is uncertain whether all students will receive free lunch and breakfast this school year. Cory Morse, MLive.com

As schools across Michigan get ready to welcome back students for the 2025-26 school year, the future of some programs supported with state-administered funds still hangs in the balance.

Chiefly among them may be free meals for all students.
U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, is speaking out against a new Instagram map feature that shares users' locations. MLive file photo. Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

ANN ARBOR, MI  U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell is speaking out against a new map feature on Instagram, saying it poses risks to children and abuse survivors by sharing their location.

Its dangerous for kids, kids can be tracked, domestic violence victims can be tracked, the Ann Arbor Democrat said.
MONTCALM TWP., MI  Five children and three adults were injured after a pickup truck hit a buggy while traveling eastbound on Dickerson Lake Road east of M-91 in Montcalm Township.

Each of the five children were transported to a local hospital in serious to critical conditions, according to a news release from Michigan State Police.

The adult female in the buggy was also listed in critical condition. The adult male in the buggy had minor injuries, according to MSP.

Investigators believe a pickup truck was traveling eastbound on Dickerson Lake Road when it attempted to pass the buggy. The truck driver noticed an on-coming vehicle and went back into the right lane, striking the buggy.

The pickup truck driver suffered minor injuries.

The crash is under investigation by the Michigan State Police Department.
Kids run to the entrance of the slip n slides at the one-day Saturday Slip N Slide event at Rosewood Park in Jenison, Mich. Charlie Nick | MLive.com

GEORGETOWN TWP., MI - The Saturday Slip N Slide is gearing up to splash into a Jenison park this weekend.

The 12th annual event, presented by National Youth Ministry Never The Same, takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on Aug. 16, at Rosewood Park.

It was started over a decade ago by Steve and Shelley Frody, real estate brokers and lifelong residents of Georgetown Township.

The goal of the event has always been to bring the community together, the organizers said. Bring the kids, tell the neighbors, and be ready to enjoy a fun summer event with something for all ages.

The stars of this event, of course, are the four huge, 40-foot by 100-foot water slides.

Attendees will also find dunk tanks, a foam pit, a game area, a toddler waterpark, a sponsor tent filled with local businesses and food trucks galore.

General admission is $2, while an express pass costs $10. Tickets my also be purchased at the door with cash only for $5-$12.

This years gold sponsors are Never The Same, City2Shore, GR Motor Car and West Michigan Sprinkling.

To learn more and find out where to park, visit online.
PORTAGE, MI  Multiple employees at a global manufacturing plant in Portage were taken to the hospital after a potential exposure, according to a company spokesperson.

Several people working in a manufacturing area at a Pfizer facility on Portage Road on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 9, reported symptoms of potential exposure to materials, the company said.

They were brought to the hospital to be evaluated, Pfizer media relations said.

All were assessed and later released from medical care, Pfizer said.

The company did not respond to follow-up questions about the incident  including how many people were hospitalized, what substance they were exposed to and if that part of the plant is currently open.

A Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration spokesman said the agency has initiated an investigation of the incident. The agency cannot provide information on an open investigation, he said.

Pfizer is known across the world for drugs it makes, including the COVID-19 vaccine, which was manufactured in Portage.

The companys largest manufacturing site is located in Portage. The 1,300-acre facility manufactures pharmaceutical ingredients, drug products and medical devices.

The global drug manufacturer says its purpose is to make medical breakthroughs that change patients lives.

Portage Department of Public Safety officials declined to comment on the incident, only saying theres no police report and that PDPS responders were called off before arriving.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark MLives local Kalamazoo news page.
The ordinance change is expected to benefit dispensaries like the Grassy Knoll, which sees peak business between 9 p.m. and midnight. Grassy Knoll Recreational Dispensary is located at 2125 Lemuel Street in Muskegon. Photo provided to MLive by Selina Shananaquet

MUSKEGON, MI - Marijuana businesses in Muskegon that have approved drive-thrus may now stay open for business until 2 a.m.

The Muskegon City Commission unanimously approved the zoning ordinance change during its Tuesday meeting.

Commissioner Willie German was absent Tuesday. The commission approved the change in a first of two votes last month and, at that time, German voted in approval.

Commissioner Jay Kilgo said the change aligns marijuana sales with alcohol sales, after Commissioner Destinee Keener raised a concern about customers driving impaired after shopping at the dispensaries.

A liquor store owner cant help who may consume their product and get behind the wheel of a vehicle - its the same for the use of your products that you sell at your facility, Kilgo said to Janet Tombre, co-owner of Grassy Knoll, and who initiated the request to the city.

Tombre said she and her staff are excited to be open later, working more hours and serving more customers. She said her staff often see between five and ten customers after 12 a.m. each day get denied service. Late night customers are often second and third shift workers.

She added that the change could increase overall revenue by 15%.

Its just a simple extension (for) the hard-working individuals who need their medicine from the afternoon to the night shifts and have really nowhere else to turn to in those hours, Tombre said.

The Grassy Knoll, 2125 Lemuel St., has been open from 8 a.m. until midnight, attracting customers beyond Muskegon, like Grand Haven, Fruitport and Grand Rapids.

The dispensary does between 7,000 to 9,000 transactions a month, with a majority of those transactions between the hours of 9 p.m. and midnight, according to Grassy Knoll General Manager Selina Shananaquet.

The city commission previously denied the ordinance change request three times, citing that the request was not written correctly.

This time, Mayor Ken Johnson said the change better fit with our zoning ordinance.

The planning commission, which previously denied the ordinance change, is in charge of approving drive-thru applications.

If there are nuisances or public safety or health concerns, the planning commission can attach those conditions and can create terms of revocation, Johnson said.

Muskegon receives Marijuana Excise Tax money, with 25% going to the Muskegon Social Equity Program and the rest into the citys general fund.

Last year, the program received around $700,000.

The social equity program specifically offers grants and loans to individuals who have faced criminal marijuana charges and who wish to now start a marijuana business.

It also helps to fund local expungement clinics and programming to prevent and combat substance abuse by youth, according to Johnson.

The Grassy Knoll is a family-owned shop that opened in November 2021. They have 15 total employees, with up to 25 in the summer, when additional seasonal employees are hired.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has disagreed with President Donald Trump policy during his second term, but she's met with him at the White House a few times this year and in Michigan. Pictured is Whitmer greeting the president as he arrives at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, on April 29, 2025, in Harrison Township, Mich. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

Last week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer met privately with President Donald Trump to talk about how tariffs are hurting the states auto industry and the impact of Medicaid changes.

This was her third time meeting with Trump this year at the White House, unusual for a Democratic governor, especially one considered a contender for her partys presidential nomination in 2028.
Varun Singh

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Orban calls for EU-Russia summit, rejects joint statement on Ukraine

Xinhua) 09:39, August 13, 2025

BUDAPEST, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) should not set conditions for talks to which its leaders are not invited, but should initiate its own summit with Russia, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said Tuesday, explaining why Hungary did not join a joint EU statement on Ukraine.

Earlier in the day, 26 EU member states issued a declaration welcoming U.S. President Donald Trump's stated efforts to help end the conflict in Ukraine ahead of his planned summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska later this week. Hungary is the only EU member state not to associate itself with the declaration.

"The declaration tries to set conditions for a negotiation to which the EU leaders were not even invited," Orban wrote on social media. "It is already sad enough that the EU has been sidelined."

He added that the only reasonable course of action would be, following the example of the planned U.S.-Russia meeting, to initiate an EU-Russia summit. "Let's give peace a chance," he said.

The declaration, published by the European Council, said a "just and lasting peace" must respect international law, including Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and that borders must not be changed by force. EU leaders pledged continued political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, including backing its right to self-defense and its path toward EU membership.

Trump and Putin are scheduled to meet in Alaska on Friday to discuss a possible Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and ways to improve bilateral ties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Union's representatives have not been invited to the negotiation.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Ghanaian Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang (L) delivers a speech at the opening of the three-day African Political Parties Summit in Accra, Ghana, on Aug. 12, 2025.The summit is a collaboration between the Africa Governance Center, an Accra-based independent think tank committed to promoting governance excellence, policy development, and institutional capacity building to support Africa's economic transformation, and the government of Ghana. Party delegates and government officials from 34 African countries are attending the summit. (Photo by Seth/Xinhua)

The summit is a collaboration between the Africa Governance Center, an Accra-based independent think tank committed to promoting governance excellence, policy development, and institutional capacity building to support Africa's economic transformation, and the government of Ghana.

Party delegates and government officials from 34 African countries are attending the summit. (Photo by Seth/Xinhua)

ACCRA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Ghanaian Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Tuesday urged African countries to practice democracy to ensure the transformation of their countries and bring the needed rewards to their people.

Opoku-Agyemang said at the opening of the three-day African Political Parties Summit taking place in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, that politics divorced from the well-being and transformation of the people is empty.

"Our people do not ask us to perform politics for its own sake. They deserve politics that translates into food security, decent jobs, functional schools, accessible health care, efficient infrastructure, security, and justice," the vice president stressed.

Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the need to avoid divisive partisan politics because political power must not be achieved at the expense of the peace and cohesion of society.

The summit is a collaboration between the Africa Governance Center, an Accra-based independent think tank committed to promoting governance excellence, policy development, and institutional capacity building to support Africa's economic transformation, and the government of Ghana.

Party delegates and government officials from 34 African countries are attending the summit, including Sao Tome and Principe President Carlos Vila Nova and Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia Adem Farah. 

Ghanaian Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang (R) delivers a speech at the opening of the three-day African Political Parties Summit in Accra, Ghana, on Aug. 12, 2025.

The summit is a collaboration between the Africa Governance Center, an Accra-based independent think tank committed to promoting governance excellence, policy development, and institutional capacity building to support Africa's economic transformation, and the government of Ghana.

Party delegates and government officials from 34 African countries are attending the summit. (Photo by Seth/Xinhua)
This photo taken on Aug. 7, 2025 shows a recreated scene of the subtitling team's workplace at a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)

A man visits a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

A woman visits a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)

Tourists enjoy the opera "The White-Haired Girl" at a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)

Tourists enjoy the opera "The White-Haired Girl" at a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

People visit a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

People visit a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

People walk into a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

People visit a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

People visit a film museum built on the former site of Changchun Film Studio in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 7, 2025. Since the start of the summer vacation, the film museum has attracted visitors with film resources, with peak daily visitor numbers exceeding 8,000. (Xinhua/Yan Linyun)
MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more.

Saurav Pandey

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MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more.

Archisha Yadav

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Bigg Boss OTT 3s Armaan Malik and his two wives summoned in Patiala over multiple marriages, hurting religious sentiments: Report

Palak Vij

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Sarika Sharma is Editor, Entertainment, MoneyControl.com. She has over 25 years of experience in the field of entertainment journalism.

Sarika Sharma

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BERLIN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be safeguarded in the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska.

Merz made the remarks at a press conference in Berlin along with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Merz and Zelensky attended a series of virtual meetings with other European leaders and with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the planned Trump-Putin summit.

Calling for a ceasefire as the first step, Merz said that Ukraine must have a seat at the table in any follow-up meetings.

He also said that Ukraine is prepared to negotiate on territorial questions, but the current "contact line" must be the starting point. 
Vaishnavi Gavankar

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Gayatri Rani

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Lakshmi Manchu asks reporters to 'behave' as she arrives at ED office in betting app case

Nakul Tomar

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Saare Jahan Se Accha Review: Pratik Gandhi delivers a measured turn in this finely crafted tale of espionage and Indo-Pak rivalry

Gayatri Rani

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1/10 Romance in Alaska

Sridevi and husband Boney Kapoor share a romantic moment amidst Alaskas stunning glaciers during the early fall season in September. The backdrop of golden leaves and icy peaks adds magic to their getaway.

2/10 The Birthday Compliment

At her 1990 birthday party in Chennai, Boney Kapoor wished Sridevi a Happy 26th when she was turning 27, telling her she looked younger with each passing day. She thought he was teasing, but it was pure admiration.

3/10 Mr India Silver Jubilee Honour

Sridevi beams as Raj Kapoor presents her the Mr India Silver Jubilee trophy, celebrating the films blockbuster success and her unforgettable performance.

4/10 Before Mr India Began

On January 5, 1985, just before the first day of Mr India shoot, Sridevi posed with co-star Anil Kapoor and the films cast, marking the start of a cinematic milestone.

5/10 First Day of Roop Ki Rani Charon Ka Raja

Sridevi joins the team on the first day of shooting the glossy Roop Ki Rani Charon Ka Raja, which also marked Satish Kaushiks debut as a director.

6/10 Last Family Picture

The last known family photo of Sridevi before her untimely demise shows her with husband Boney Kapoor , daughter Khushi, and other family members radiating happiness together.

7/10 Red Banarasi Elegance

A rare family photo captures Sridevi in a stunning red Banarasi saree with traditional jewellery, embodying grace and timeless charm with her mother Rajeshwari and sister Srilatha

8/10 The Big Kapoor Family Portrait

Sridevi stands with Boney Kapoor, Anil Kpoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Maheep Kapoor and other family members in a grand family photo, a snapshot of Bollywoods celebrated Kapoor clan.

9/10 Khuda Gawah Shoot with Big B

Sridevi shares the frame with Amitabh Bachchan on the Khuda Gawah set, dressed in full Afghan attire for the epic film.
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmahs Tanmay Vekaria shares throwback pics with Dilip Joshi from theatre days, fans also spot babuji in pics

Palak Vij

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Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri to launch The Bengal Files trailer in Calcutta, to visit Kalighat and Shahid Minar

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Bessent dismisses China investing in US as part of a trade deal

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Homeless who refuse to cooperate with Trump crackdown may go to jail, White House says

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KAMPALA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Uganda will hold a rhino naming ceremony in September as part of efforts to restore a species once extinct in the country, a government official said.

The event, expected to raise over 11 million U.S. dollars, will take place on Sept. 22 at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District, central Uganda. It will coincide with World Rhino Day, an annual global campaign to promote rhino protection, said Martin Mugara, minister of state for tourism, wildlife, and antiquities, on Tuesday.

"Rhinos are not only part of our natural heritage, they are an asset that can drive tourism, jobs, and sustainable growth for our communities," Mugara said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "This naming ceremony is an opportunity for citizens, companies, and development partners to directly contribute towards rhino conservation."

The minister noted that the ceremony will also mark the start of translocating rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Ajai Wildlife Reserve, where they once roamed decades ago before becoming extinct.

According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, more than 48 southern white rhinos and 17 juveniles born between 2021 and 2024 are ready to be named. The agency also said that Rhinos disappeared from Uganda's wild in the early 1980s due to poaching and civil unrest, but breeding programs launched in 2004 have driven a steady recovery. 
Indias FY26 GDP growth seen at least 6% even if Trump keeps tariffs at 50%, says govt official

Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years.

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This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates sourced from multiple news outlets and agencies

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Waaree Energies, Premier Energies shares fall up to 4% as US launches anti-dumping duty probe

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BISSAU, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Guinea-Bissau's newly appointed Prime Minister Braima Camara has voiced hope to maintain close communication and cooperation with China, and to deepen mutually beneficial ties across various fields.

Camara made the remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Chinese Ambassador to Guinea-Bissau Yang Renhuo, who congratulated him on his appointment.

China, Camara said, is one of Guinea-Bissau's most important international partners and has long provided substantial and selfless support for the country's independence and development. He noted that the government and people of Guinea-Bissau are deeply grateful for China's assistance.

The prime minister pledged to lead his government in fostering close engagement with China, expanding cooperation in multiple sectors, and promoting the sustained growth of bilateral relations.

For his part, Yang highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two countries. In recent years, under the strategic guidance of their heads of state, China and Guinea-Bissau have established a strategic partnership, with bilateral ties developing steadily and yielding tangible results in practical cooperation.

Yang expressed China's willingness to work with Camara and his new government to further strengthen cooperation and elevate bilateral relations to a new level. 
Preeti Kulkarni

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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

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Manish M. Suvarna is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He writes on the Indian money markets, RBI, Banks and NBFCs. He tweets at @manishsuvarna15. Contact: Manish.Suvarna@nw18.com

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An exhibitor showcases a haptic input device for use in a virtual reality environment during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A visitor checks the movement of shape-memory alloy actuators during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

An exhibitor poses with his own 3D-printed face mask for a picture inside a 3D face-scanning machine during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A visitor tries to experience the feeling of being a baby by using virtual reality technology and wearing a special membrane bodysuit during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

An exhibitor demonstrates remote-controlling a robotic hand through hand motions during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Visitors take part in an augmented reality game during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A visitor experiences a real-time AI-generated video during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Exhibitors demonstrate a motion capture system for gaming during the Premier Conference & Exhibition on Computer Graphics & Interactive Techniques (SIGGRAPH 2025) at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, Canada, Aug. 12, 2025. The exhibition showcases the innovation and technological advancement in computer graphics, digital art, animation, visual effects, new realities, artificial intelligence, research, and more. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)
Siddharth Chakravorty

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Akal Takht jathedar condemns brutal assault of 70-year-old Sikh man in US, calls it hate crime

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Another Indian thrashed by teens in Dublin amid spate of racist attacks in Ireland

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'Attack on liberty and culture': Leaders react to meat sale ban on Independence Day

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VIENTIANE, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Lao officials and the public recognize the media's vital role in driving national development and expanding public knowledge in the digital age.

The 75th anniversary of Mass Media and Publishing Day was held in the Lao capital, Vientiane, from Monday to Tuesday, showcasing media and publishing products and offering visitors insight into the industry's history, achievements, and role in promoting socio-economic growth.

Speaking at the event on Tuesday, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone called for modernization, timely reporting, and a stronger focus on digital and online news platforms.

Thanva, a 30-year-old resident of Vientiane, visited the exhibition in search of new books to enjoy.

She said, "For many, the media is the main connection to the world beyond their village or town. With digital platforms expanding, media content can now reach people nationwide instantly."

Thanva expressed hope that the Lao media will share more interesting stories and publish engaging content that appeals to all generations, to help improve public knowledge and protect people against misinformation and fake news.

Namphet, a resident of Vientiane, highlighted the media's essential role in supporting socio-economic development in Laos. She noted that it enhances Laos' global image by sharing stories about the country's culture, development progress, and emerging opportunities.

"We need faster, more accurate reporting and more in-depth analysis of both national and global issues, as this can help improve public knowledge," said Namphet.

The Lao government has emphasized that ongoing efforts are being made to promote digital transformation within the media sector, with a focus on strengthening the skills of media professionals in response to the rapid rise of social media. 
DRDO guesthouse manager in Jaisalmer was spying on top scientists for Pakistan, arrested: Report

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I will look into this: CJI Gavai on SC's stray dog removal order for Delhi-NCR

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India awash in saffron, white and green as Har Ghar Tiranga marks 79 years of freedom

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Children assemble architectural models in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

A child participates in an interactive science experiment in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

Children experience simulation inside a mock space capsule in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua)

Children visit a museum in Yinan County of Linyi, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Wang Yanbing/Xinhua)

A teacher teaches children to practice basic martial arts skills in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Zhao Jingwu/Xinhua)

Children read books at a bookstore in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua)

Children launch "water rockets" during a community science class in Yantai, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Sun Wentan/Xinhua)

Children engage in seal carving experience in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Wang Haibin/Xinhua)

A child experiences a rock climbing activity in Zaozhuang, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 12, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Li Zongxian/Xinhua)

Children participate in a reading camp in Zaozhuang, east China's Shandong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Children across China take part in various kinds of activities to spend their summer holiday. (Photo by Sun Zhongzhe/Xinhua)
Minta Devi, Opposition's poster girl in Bihar SIR protest, lashes out at Gandhis: 'Who gave them the right to...'

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'Not interested in knowing who eats what, have other issues': Fadnavis on meat shop closure controversy

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Questioned on F-16 loss during Operation Sindoor, US says 'ask Pakistan'

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Rahul Gandhi claims threat to life from Godse's kin during hearing in Savarkar defamation case

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Street dog menace: Opposition MLAs want SC directions to be extended to Karnataka

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A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

WENCHANG, Hainan, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China successfully launched a new group of low Earth orbit satellites from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan on Wednesday.

This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket.

The satellites successfully entered their preset orbit.

This launch marked the 588th mission of the Long March series carrier rockets. 

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Photo by Du Xinxin/Xinhua)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Photo by Du Xinxin/Xinhua)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Photo by Du Xinxin/Xinhua)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Photo by Du Xinxin/Xinhua)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

A Long March-5B carrier rocket carrying a group of low Earth orbit satellites blasts off from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. This satellite group, the eighth of its kind that will constitute an internet constellation, was launched at 2:43 p.m. (Beijing Time) aboard a Long March-5B carrier rocket, featuring a Yuanzheng-2 (Expedition-2) upper stage at the top of the rocket. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)
Ria Kapoor

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Why India's approach to dairy in trade talks is rooted not in protectionism but in cultural fidelity

Arun Anand has authored two books on the RSS. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Namrata Agarwal

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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.

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BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, will chair the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Anning, Yunnan from August 14 to 15, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Wednesday.

The Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand will be held on the sidelines of the LMC Foreign Ministers' Meeting, the spokesperson said. 
Celebrate Independence Day 2025 with Har Ghar Tiranga: How to participate, hoist national flag with selfie and earn your certificate

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Google's new feature will allow users in India to pick their favourite news sources in Search

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1/10 Gujarat is often celebrated for iconic landmarks like the Statue of Unity and the Narendra Modi Stadium, along with its deserts, temples, and vibrant cities. Yet hidden within its lush forests and hills are breathtaking waterfalls waiting to be explored. Away from the usual tourist trails, these cascades offer peace, adventure, and scenic beauty. Heres a guide to 11 stunning waterfalls in Gujarat that every nature lover should know about. (Image: Canva)

2/10 1. Girmal Waterfalls  Girmal

Located in the Dang forests, Girmal Waterfalls features roaring cascades surrounded by dense greenery. Perfect for trekking and photography, it is best visited during monsoon for maximum flow. (Image: Gujarat Tourism)

3/10 2. Gira Waterfalls  Wanarchond

Situated near Saputara hill station, Gira Waterfalls is an offbeat destination with crystal-clear waters and picnic-friendly spots. Accessible via short treks, its ideal for a refreshing day trip. (Image: Canva)

4/10 3. Zanzari Waterfalls  Jodhpur

Zanzari Waterfalls is a hidden gem with calm natural pools and a serene forest setting. Its remote location ensures solitude, perfect for meditation or nature walks. (Image: Instagram/Zanzari_waterfall_official_)

5/10 4. Ninai Waterfalls  Mohbi

Surrounded by lush forests, Ninai Waterfalls is relatively untouched, offering a quiet retreat. The cascading waters and rocky terrain make it popular among trekking enthusiasts. (Image: Canva)

6/10 5. Zarwani Waterfalls  Dhirkhadi

Zarwani Waterfalls flows through rugged landscapes, creating scenic photo opportunities. Adventurers can enjoy light trekking trails while exploring this secluded waterfall. (Image: Canva)

7/10 6. Khuniya Mahadev Waterfalls  Pavagadh

Located near a historic Mahadev temple, this waterfall offers a spiritual and scenic experience. The natural pools and surrounding forest make it ideal for relaxation. (Image: facebook/Rushit Patel)

8/10 7. Hathni Mata Waterfalls  Poyali

Hathni Mata Waterfalls is a seasonal delight, with roaring waters during monsoon months. Surrounded by lush hills, its perfect for picnics, photography, and nature walks. (Image: Instagram/Gujarat Tourism)

9/10 8. Jamjir Waterfalls  Kansariya

Secluded and serene, Jamjir Waterfalls is ideal for day-long excursions. Visitors can enjoy peaceful treks, rocky pools, and the surrounding biodiversity of Dang forests. (Image: Canva)
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1/10 Jordan is a land where history whispers through every stone and nature astonishes at every turn. From ancient cities hewn into cliffs to otherworldly deserts and shimmering seas, this Middle Eastern gem promises experiences that linger long after you leave. Heres a curated journey through Jordans most unforgettable destinations. (Image: canva)

2/10 1. Petra  The Rose-Red Wonder

No trip to Jordan feels complete without wandering through Petra. This UNESCO World Heritage site, famously carved into rose-hued cliffs, is a mesmerizing testament to the Nabatean civilization. Walk the winding Siq, a narrow canyon that reveals the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) in all its glory, and explore royal tombs, ancient streets, and archaeological marvels that tell stories centuries old. (Image: canva)

3/10 2. Wadi Rum  The Valley of the Moon

Step into a desert landscape that seems plucked from another world. Wadi Rums towering sandstone peaks and endless red sand plains invite explorationby jeep, camel, or on foot. Overnight stays in Bedouin camps under a sky awash with stars elevate the experience, while the deserts cinematic vistas have graced films like Lawrence of Arabia. (Image: canva)

4/10 3. The Dead Sea  Float in a Natural Wonder

Imagine effortlessly floating atop the worlds saltiest sea. The Dead Sea, Earths lowest point, is a surreal experience, where mineral-rich mud nourishes the skin and panoramic mountain views soothe the soul. Luxurious resorts line the shores, perfect for a mix of wellness, leisure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. (Image: canva)

5/10 4. Amman  Where Past Meets Present

Jordans capital pulses with energy, blending contemporary life with ancient heritage. Explore the Citadel and the Roman Theatre, then meander through bustling souks. A bite of mansaf, falafel, or freshly baked flatbread completes the sensory immersion into Jordanian culture. (Image: canva)

6/10 5. Aqaba  Red Sea Retreat

Jordans sole coastal city, Aqaba, dazzles with coral reefs, clear waters, and endless adventure. Dive into vibrant underwater worlds, unwind on sandy beaches, or indulge in seaside resorts. For travellers craving both thrill and relaxation, Aqaba is a jewel along the Red Sea. (Image: canva)

7/10 6. Jerash  Roman Grandeur Preserved

Step back in time in Jerash, one of the most impeccably preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Wander colonnaded streets, marvel at ancient temples, and soak in the grandeur of amphitheatres that once hosted gladiatorial spectaclesa vivid journey into antiquity. (Image: canva)

8/10 7. Madaba  Mosaic City

Known as the City of Mosaics, Madaba dazzles with intricate floor mosaics dating back centuries. The St. George Church, home to the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, is a must-see for history enthusiasts. (Image: canva)

9/10 8. Mount Nebo  A Sacred Vista

A short drive from Madaba, Mount Nebo offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Believed to be the place where Moses glimpsed the Promised Land, its a serene spot for reflection and awe-inspiring photography. (Image: canva)
Kibber, Himachal Pradesh: One of the Worlds Highest Villages and a Snow Leopard Haven

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Philippines' Canlaon Reopens Tourism Sites After Kanlaon Volcano Alert Downgrade  All You Need to Know

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Tuesday that the security of the Red Sea shipping lanes must be maintained.

Last month, the Houthis claimed responsibility for sinking two commercial vessels -- Magic Seas and Eternity C -- in the Red Sea.

China finds it deeply concerning and calls on the Houthis to respect the navigational rights of commercial vessels of all countries in the Red Sea in accordance with international law, and to stop harassing or attacking them, said Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

"The shipping lanes in the Red Sea should be kept safe, and the safety and security of civilians, including seafarers, should be protected. Yemen's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should also be respected," he told a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in Yemen.

Active efforts should be made to move the Yemeni peace process forward, said Geng, calling on the two parties to the conflict to resume engagement, move in the same direction, demonstrate the greatest sincerity in resolving their differences, build the greatest possible consensus for reconciliation, and make the greatest efforts to restore peace.

The humanitarian crisis must be eased as soon as possible, he added, noting that Yemen is experiencing one of the worst food security crises in the world, with nearly half of its population facing acute food insecurity and about 4.8 million people displaced. Life is particularly hard for vulnerable groups, including women and children.

"The international community must ramp up humanitarian assistance to Yemen, support the country's economic development and efforts to improve livelihood, and help the Yemeni people tide over these hard times," said Geng.

What is happening in Yemen and the Red Sea is closely linked to the overall situation in the Middle East. The Security Council held an emergency meeting on the situation in Gaza last Sunday. The message from that meeting was unequivocal: the vast majority of council members opposed Israel's plan to take over Gaza, opposed Israel's continued military operations in Gaza, and opposed Israel's weaponization of humanitarian aid, said the Chinese envoy.

The international community must take all actions necessary to bring the fighting in Gaza to an end without delay, mitigate the impact of the humanitarian catastrophe, and de-escalate the overall situation in the Middle East, he said. 
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'Committed to both': After Munir's nuke threat, US says ties with India and Pakistan remain unchanged

Siddharth Chakravorty

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EAM S Jaishankar to visit Moscow for talks with Sergey Lavrov on August 21, confirms Russia

Pragya Trivedi

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From glamour to handcuffs: How a diamond pendant landed South Koreas most powerful woman behind the bars

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Hindi Chini Bhai-Bhai again? Trump plays unlikely matchmaker in IndiaChina thaw; but for how long?

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New Zealand PM Luxon says Israel's Netanyahu has 'lost the plot'

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Not a drop will be snatched: Shehbaz Sharif's 'stern warning' to India over Indus water dispute

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BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China's marine economy made steady progress in the first half of 2025, said Gu Wu, an official with the Ministry of Natural Resources, on Wednesday.

Gu made the remarks when speaking on the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

According to preliminary calculations, China's gross ocean product (GOP) grew 5.8 percent year on year to 5.1 trillion yuan (about 714.1 billion U.S. dollars) in the first half of this year, data from the Ministry of Natural Resources showed.

China's marine economy achieved a significant milestone in 2024, with its GOP exceeding 10 trillion yuan for the first time, according to data from the ministry. China's GOP had reached 10.54 trillion yuan in 2024, marking an increase of 5.9 percent from the previous year.

Notably, the service sector was the largest contributor to the marine economy in 2024, contributing 59.6 percent of the total GOP. Marine manufacturing emerged as a key driver, accounting for over 30 percent of the total GOP.

Shandong, the eastern coastal province, reported a GOP of 1.8 trillion yuan in 2024. It leads all Chinese regions in the added value of seven marine-related industries, including marine fisheries, marine power generation, and marine transportation.

Wang Rentang, head of the Oceanic Administration of Shandong Province, told the roundtable that the province's ports achieved a milestone in terms of cargo throughput last year.

The cargo throughput of Shandong's ports exceeded 2 billion tonnes in 2024, ranking first among all Chinese regions for three consecutive years, official data showed.

Underlining its strategic importance, China has firmly placed the marine economy on the national agenda. A high-level meeting in early July saw Chinese leadership emphasize that advancing Chinese modernization necessitates "promoting the high-quality development of the marine economy" alongside pursuing "a Chinese path of leveraging marine resources to achieve strength."

Policymakers highlighted five priority areas at the meeting: innovation-driven growth, enhanced coordination, industrial renewal, harmony between human activities and the ocean, and win-win cooperation. 
Opportunity to leave: Netanyahu says Palestinians can exit Gaza ahead of military expansion

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'PM Modi should nominate him for Nobel twice': Ex-US NSA John Bolton criticises Trump over India tariffs

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'Putin cannot fool anyone': Zelensky calls for ceasefire or tougher sanctions on Russia ahead of Alaska summit

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'Putin has already won': US President Donald Trump slams 'unfair media' over his meeting with Putin

Yeeshu Yadav

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'Scared to go outside...': Indian man decides to leave Ireland after violent attack, says community scared amid assaults

Abhinav Gupta

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Trump claims Washington DC crime rate is worse than Islamabad: Heres what the data reveals

Pragya Trivedi

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Baldyrgan Baikadamova (L), the daughter of Kazakh musician Bakhytzhan Baikadamov, donates Xian Xinghai items she has kept, at a donation ceremony held in Macao, south China, Aug. 13, 2025. The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government on Wednesday held a donation ceremony for items related to Xian Xinghai, a late Chinese composer remembered by generations. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)

MACAO, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government on Wednesday held a donation ceremony for items related to Xian Xinghai, a late Chinese composer remembered by generations.

Baldyrgan Baikadamova, the daughter of Kazakh musician Bakhytzhan Baikadamov, donated items she had kept, which included music scores of Xian and other related documents, to the Xian Xinghai Memorial Museum of the Macao SAR.

According to Baikadamova, over 80 years ago, Xian and her father met and became acquainted in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

The works she brought include pieces Xian composed during his time in Kazakhstan, drawing on elements from Kazakh culture and conveying a spirit of resistance in difficult times. These pieces also inspired the people of Kazakhstan, Baikadamova said.

"I have always wanted to come to Macao. I am also very pleased that we have helped Mr. Xian Xinghai fulfill his wish to be back home and brought the works of two great musicians to Macao," she added.

Choi Kin Long, acting president of the IC, said in his remarks that more than 80 years ago, Xian Xinghai, enduring hardships in a foreign land, was generously helped by the Baikadamov family, forging a transnational friendship through music.

"We are deeply grateful to Ms. Baikadamova for visiting Macao in person and bringing this piece of historical memory back to Xian Xinghai's hometown, which will enrich the museum's collection and help foster patriotic education in Macao," he said.

After the donation ceremony, in an exchange seminar with Macao youth, Baikadamova shared the story of her father's friendship with Xian, as well as the hardships they faced during the World Anti-Fascist War.

Xian was born in Macao in June 1905, and died in Moscow in October 1945. He composed the Yellow River Cantata in 1939, which proved a tremendous source of uplift for the Chinese people fighting the war of resistance against Japanese aggression. 

Baldyrgan Baikadamova, the daughter of Kazakh musician Bakhytzhan Baikadamov, speaks at a donation ceremony held in Macao, south China, Aug. 13, 2025.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government on Wednesday held a donation ceremony for items related to Xian Xinghai, a late Chinese composer remembered by generations. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)

Choi Kin Long, acting president of the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government, speaks during a donation ceremony held in Macao, south China, Aug. 13, 2025.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government on Wednesday held a donation ceremony for items related to Xian Xinghai, a late Chinese composer remembered by generations. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)
Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska: Whats at stake and why it matters

Pragya Trivedi

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Trump, Putin to meet for first time in 5 years: Why talks are happening in Alaska, not Washington or Moscow

Abhinav Gupta

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Trump's short-term love affair with Asim Munir: Why Washingtons Pakistan crush always ends in a breakup

Abhinav Gupta With over 12 years in digital journalism, has navigated the fast-evolving media landscape, shaping digital strategies and leading high-impact newsrooms. Currently, he serves as News Editor at MoneyControl, leading coverage in Global Affairs, Indian Politics, Governance and Policy Making. Previously, he has spearheaded fact-checking and digital media operations at Press Trust of India. Abhinav has also led news desks at Financial Express, DNA, and Jagran English, managing editorial direction, breaking news coverage, and digital growth. His journey includes stints with The Indian Express Group, Zee Media Group, and more, where he has honed his expertise in newsroom leadership, audience engagement, and digital transformation.

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Trump says he wants three-way meeting with Putin, Zelensky if Alaska summit 'goes okay'

Abhinav Gupta

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Trump warns Putin of 'severe consequences' if Russia doesn't stop war with Ukraine after Alaska summit

Chhabi Kala

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US lauds Pakistans fight against terror, condemns loss of lives in barbaric attacks

Pragya Trivedi

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US State Dept sidesteps Asim Munir's nuclear threat made on American soil, says 'ask Pak govt'

Abhinav Gupta

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'We will never leave Donbas': Zelenskyy rejects Russia's demand for full withdrawal

Pragya Trivedi

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HANOI, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered the Ministry of Industry and Trade to continue tariff negotiations with the United States to secure the most favorable commitments for Vietnam, aiming for a comprehensive, balanced and sustainable trade agreement, Vietnam News Agency reported Wednesday.

The government leader assigned ministries, localities and state-owned enterprises to take measures in response to Washington's tariff policy.

Since Aug. 1, the United States has lowered tariffs on Vietnamese goods from 46 percent to 20 percent under an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump that modified tariff rates for 69 trading partners. 
Whats changed in the US human rights reports? How the Trump administration cut criticism of allies and rewrote the narrative

Pragya Trivedi

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Who is Zakaria Zubeidi? From militant leader to prison escapee, and why he says both war and peace have failed in the Middle East

Pragya Trivedi

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Why Ukraine's Soviet-style command is costing lives and jeopardising its war effort

Pragya Trivedi

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Zelenskyy and European leaders to speak with Trump ahead of Alaska summit with Putin

101Reporters

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Zelenskyy says Putin wants rest of Ukraine's Donetsk region as part of ceasefire

Sonalee Borgohain

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Workers sort out mango-flavored ice pops at a mango processing company in Tiandong County of Baise, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Huan)

NANNING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Mango-flavored ice pops keep rolling off a production line in the county of Tiandong, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The tropical sweetness will later embark on a long journey to Russia.

"To meet rising demand, output has skyrocketed from a few hundred tonnes last year to over 3,000 tonnes so far this year. We're on track to hit 5,000 tonnes for the entire year," said Lin De'en, chairman of Tiandong Yisheng Import and Export Trade Co., Ltd.

Nearly 60 percent of the company's mango ice pop exports are bound for Russia, the rest for Kazakhstan, the Republic of Korea and Japan.

Tiandong aims to make itself "China's Mango Capital." With the local mango industry shifting from fresh fruit exports to deep processing, products like mango chips, puree and jam are gradually breaking into emerging overseas markets.

"We also supply mango products as raw materials to bubble tea brands across Anhui, Shandong, Fujian and Guangdong provinces," said Zeng Chengrui, assistant to the company's general manager. "During each mango season, our combined output of pulp and puree tops 6,000 tonnes, yet we still can't keep up with demand."

"Now, our biggest challenge is not sales channels, but production capacity," Lin De'en said.

As one of the country's leading mango hubs, Tiandong is now home to some 22,666 hectares of mango orchards.

It is accelerating the promotion of integrated water and fertilizer irrigation, and eco-friendly pest and disease control, said Liu Dehuan, chief agronomist of the county's agriculture and rural affairs bureau.

"In the past, farmers mainly relied on manual pesticide spraying. Now, drones equipped with high-precision sensors can accurately detect the growth of fruit trees and the distribution of pests and diseases, enabling precise pesticide application and intelligent pest control," he explained.

Liu aims to promote the use of more mechanized and intelligent equipment. This, he said, will save labor while boosting yields and enhancing ecological benefits. 

Mango-flavored ice pops are pictured at a mango processing company in Tiandong County of Baise, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Huan)
KABUL, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Police have gunned down two armed robbers and arrested three others in northern Afghanistan's Kunduz and Balkh provinces on Tuesday, officials said Wednesday.

In the first incident, which took place in Imam Sahib district of Kunduz province on Tuesday morning, police wanted to arrest two armed robbers, but they resisted and were finally killed in a clash with police, a statement of the provincial police office confirmed.

Police also recovered a Kalashnikov assault rifle and 150,000 afghani (around 2,200 U.S. dollars) cash from their possessions.

In similar operations against criminal elements, police arrested three thieves from Balkh provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif and discovered more than 3,000 U.S dollars in their possession, provincial police spokesman Hafiz Mohammad Eisa Wasiq said. 
CAIRO, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A Hamas delegation arrived here in the Egyptian capital on Tuesday to discuss resuming Gaza ceasefire talks, with the goal of reaching a temporary 60-day truce agreement, according to Egypt's Al-Qahera News channel.

Egypt is making intensive efforts with all concerned parties to resume ceasefire negotiations to reach a truce in the Gaza Strip, the news channel quoted an Egyptian official source as saying.

The source confirmed that a delegation of Hamas leaders, headed by Khalil Al-Hayya, arrived in Egypt to consult with Egyptian officials on ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, emphasizing that the visit came after a period of stalemate in the ceasefire negotiation process.

Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he believes the prospects for a partial ceasefire and hostage-release deal with Hamas are no longer possible.

In an interview with Israeli broadcaster i24, Netanyahu said the possibility of reaching a partial agreement "is behind us."

Israel has been waging a large-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7, 2023, following an unprecedented attack by the Hamas movement on southern Israel, which, according to Israeli authorities, resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of hostages.

The offensive has led to the deaths of more than 61,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health authorities, in addition to widespread destruction of buildings and infrastructure. 
CAIRO (AP)  The United Nations on Tuesday condemned an attack by a paramilitary group on a famine-hit displacement camp in Sudans western region of Darfur, killing at least 40 people.

Mondays attack by the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, on the Abu Shouk camp outside el-Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur province, also wounded 19 others, according to the Emergency Response Rooms, an activist group that tracks Sudans civil war.

Once again, civilians are paying the highest price in this conflict, Sheldon Yett, the U.N. resident and humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, said in a statement. Displacement camps and other places of refuge for civilians must not be targeted.

Abu-Shouk is one of two camps for displaced people outside el-Fasher, the militarys last stronghold in Darfur. They have repeatedly been attacked by the RSF, including a major offensive in April that killed hundreds of people and forced hundreds of thousands of others to flee. Both the Abu Shouk and Zamzam camps have been hit by famine.

The attack came as the RSF imposed a blockade on el-Fasher as they continued their yearlong attempt to seize it. On Monday, the military and its allies rebel groups repelled a major RSF offensive on the city.

Yett said that the RSF siege and attacks have left el-Fashers population with extremely limited access to food, safe water and medical care. More than 60 people reportedly died of malnutrition in one week in an extremely worrying development, he said.

The World Food Program hasnt been able to deliver aid by land to el-Fasher for more than a year. The U.N. agency warned this month that 300,000 people who are trapped, hungry, and running out of time, face starvation.

Everyone in el-Fasher is facing a daily struggle to survive, said Eric Perdison, WFPs regional director for eastern and southern Africa. Peoples coping mechanisms have been completely exhausted by over two years of war. Without immediate and sustained access, lives will be lost.

The attack on Abu Shouk was the latest tragedy in Sudans civil war, which pits the military against the RSF. The war broke out in April 2023 over power struggle between commanders of the warring sides. The fighting has devastated the northeastern African country, forcing about 14 million people out of their homes, and pushing some areas into famine.

Thousands of people were killed in the conflict that has been marked with atrocities, including mass killings and rape, particularly in Darfur. The International Criminal Court is investigating potential crimes against humanity in the conflict.

By SAMY MAGDY

Associated Press
A partial view of a 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station built by China's Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd. is pictured in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, Romania, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)

BUCHAREST, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- A 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station built by China's Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd. was completed Tuesday in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, in southeastern Romania.

The project, a subsidiary venture of China Electric Equipment Group Co., Ltd., took about 10 months to build and is expected to operate for 25 years. It will generate 42 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 20,000 tonnes.

At the completion ceremony, Song Xianmao, counselor in charge of business affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Romania, highlighted the role of green energy in tackling climate change and boosting economic growth. He said China and Romania had deepened cooperation in recent years, with Chinese firms contributing to the country's low-carbon transition.

Nicolae Pandea, mayor of Stefan cel Mare commune, said that although Bucharest and Beijing are 7,100 km apart, the distance had not hindered successful collaboration. He welcomed further Chinese investment and promised swift approvals for major projects.

Zhu Jibin, general manager of Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd., hailed the plant as "a significant milestone" in green energy collaboration between China, Italy and Romania. The project, he said, followed principles of safety, efficiency, greenness and innovation, and was completed on time and to high standards.

Local site manager Alexandru Gheorghe called the plant "the future" for the commune, adding that residents were proud to see the park finished. Calarasi County deputy prefect Valentin-Dumitru Deculescu praised the initiative as vital for both the community and Romania's renewable energy output. 

Zhu Jibin (R), general manager of Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd., communicates with a colleague at a 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, Romania, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)

Nicolae Pandea, mayor of Stefan cel Mare commune, speaks during the completion ceremony of a 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, Romania, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)

A partial view of a 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station built by China's Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd. is pictured in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, Romania, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)

A partial view of a 31.82-megawatt photovoltaic power station built by China's Pinggao Group International Engineering Co., Ltd. is pictured in Stefan cel Mare, Calarasi County, Romania, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)
Sudan launches a 10-day cholera vaccination campaign in Khartoum as war continues View Photo

KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Health officials in Sudan have launched a 10-day cholera vaccination campaign in the capital, Khartoum, to curb what humanitarians call a rapidly spreading outbreak of the diarrheal disease fueled by civil war, displacement and heavy rainfall.

Associated Press video footage on Wednesday showed officials administering the vaccine to children and others. Healthcare worker Aziza Berima said the campaign in Khartoum began Sunday and targets over 150,000 people.

Resident Montaser al-Sayed said he and his family recently returned home after being displaced by fighting. They feared cholera in the chaotic conditions but said the vaccination campaign reassured them.

As a mother, I was relieved, said another resident, Razaz Abdullah.

Cholera is spreading at an alarming rate and the collapsed health system makes it extremely hard to trace and contain, Sophie Dresser, director of programs at Mercy Corps-Sudan, told the AP.

Last month, the United Nations humanitarian office said over 32,000 suspected cholera cases have been reported in Sudan this year. Since the outbreak was declared in July 2024, more than 83,000 cases and 2,100 deaths have been reported, the U.N. said, citing Sudans health ministry.

The U.N. says cases are rising in Sudans more remote western region of Darfur. The health ministry has reported 1,440 suspected cases and 74 deaths there.

Although vaccination campaigns launched last year across some areas in Sudan, the disease has continued to spread in recent months amid the ongoing fighting between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army.

The civil war erupted in April 2023 in Khartoum before spreading across the country. The fighting has killed over 40,000 people, displaced as many as 12 million and pushed many to the brink of famine.

The World Health Organization describes cholera as a disease of poverty because it spreads where there is poor sanitation and a lack of clean water. The diarrheal disease is caused when people eat food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is easily treatable with rehydration solutions and antibiotics, but in severe cases the disease can kill within hours if left untreated.

A spike in cholera cases had been reported in Khartoum, where 172 people died and more than 2,500 others were infected in a week in late May. A 10-day vaccination campaign at the time reached over 2.2 million people, the WHO reported in July.

Aid organizations warn that the situation, including heavy rains, is concerning in other areas of Sudan including North Kordofan, White Nile and River Nile provinces.

In places like Darfur and Kordofan, people are living in crowded shelters with poor sanitation and little access to clean water or medical care, conditions where cholera thrives, Dresser said.

By HAZEM HASSAN and FATMA KHALED

Associated Press
In his words: Trumps rhetoric about Zelenskyy and Putin has evolved

In his words: Trumps rhetoric about Zelenskyy and Putin has evolved View Photo

U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly said during his successful campaign for a second term that he could end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours. But since his Jan. 20 inauguration, the road to a peace deal has been fraught with changing dynamics among Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

A summit between Trump and Putin set for Friday in Alaska could now be a pivotal moment in the 3 1/2-year-old war.

At the end of that meeting, probably the first two minutes, Ill know exactly whether or not a deal can be made, Trump said Monday.

Trumps rhetoric toward both Zelenskyy and Putin has evolved this year.

At the start of his second term, Trump was conciliatory toward Putin, for whom he has long shown admiration. But as Putin remained intransigent and rejected an unconditional truce proposed by Trump, the Republican leader has expressed increasing exasperation with the Russian leader, criticizing him for his unbudging stance on U.S.-led peace efforts and for prolonging the war.

Until recently, Trump repeatedly said Russia seemed more willing than Ukraine to get a deal done.

Trump appears to have softened toward Zelenskyy after a February confrontation in the Oval Office. And, in a reversal, he promised at some point to provide Ukraine with badly needed Patriot air defense missiles under a deal that would see NATO allies in Europe deliver them from their stock, to be replaced by future U.S. supplies.

Russias bigger army is pressing on parts of the 620-mile (1,000-kilometer) front line, where thousands of soldiers on both sides have died since the Kremlin ordered the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

June brought the highest monthly civilian casualties in the past three years, with 232 people killed and 1,343 wounded in Ukraine, the U.N. human rights mission in Ukraine said Thursday.

A look at what Trump has said so far during his second term:

Jan. 31

We want to end that war. That war would have not started if I was president.

Trump says his new administration has already had very serious discussions with Russia and that he and Putin could soon take significant action toward ending the conflict.

Feb. 19

A Dictator without Elections, Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a Country left.

Trumps harsh words for Zelenskyy on his Truth Social platform drew criticism from Democrats and even some Republicans in the United States, where defending Ukraine from Russian aggression has traditionally had bipartisan support. Zelenskyy said Trump was falling into a Russian disinformation trap  and he was quickly admonished by Vice President JD Vance about the perils of publicly criticizing the president.

Feb. 28

Youre gambling with World War III. And what youre doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country thats backed you far more than a lot of people said they should have.

Trump and Vance berated Zelenskyy, accusing him of not showing gratitude after he challenged Vance on the question of diplomacy with Putin. The Oval Office argument, broadcast globally, led to the rest of Zelenskyys White House visit being canceled and called into question U.S. support for Ukraine. A few days later, Trump temporarily paused military aid to Ukraine to pressure Zelenskyy to seek peace.

March 30

I dont think hes going to go back on his word. Youre talking about Putin. I dont think hes going to go back on his word. Ive known him for a long time. Weve always gotten along well.

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he trusts Putin to hold up his end of a potential peace deal. The comments were among the last positive remarks he made about the Kremlin leader this year.

April 24

I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets get the Peace Deal DONE!

In a Truth Social post, Trump was reacting to Russia attacking Kyiv with a barrage of missiles and drones. It was the first of his rare criticisms of Putin amid increased Russian attacks on Ukraine.

April 29

A lot of his people are dying. Theyre being killed, and I feel very badly about it.

Trump addressed the toll on Ukrainians during an interview with ABC News after he met with Zelenskyy on the sidelines of Pope Francis funeral. It was the first time the leaders had met since the Oval Office spat and signaled a shift in Trumps attitude toward the Ukrainian president.

May 25

Ive always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!

Trumps Truth Social post made it clear he was losing patience with Putin as Moscow pounded Kyiv and other cities with drones and missiles in stepped-up aerial attacks.

June 25

He was very nice actually. We had a little rough times, sometimes. He was  Couldnt have been nicer. I think hed like to see an end to this, I do.

Trump had a closed-door meeting with Zelenskyy during a NATO summit in The Hague. Trumps comments to reporters later also opened the possibility of sending Patriot air-defense missiles to Ukraine.

July 8

We get a lot of bull thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth. Hes very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.

Trump also said hes not happy with Putin and that Moscows war in Ukraine is killing a lot of people on both sides. Trumps comments during a Cabinet meeting came a day after he said the U.S. would send more weapons to Ukraine. It was a dramatic reversal after earlier announcing a pause in delivering previously approved firepower to Kyiv, a decision made amid concerns that U.S. military stockpiles had declined too much.

July 13

I am very disappointed with President Putin, I thought he was somebody that meant what he said. Hell talk so beautifully and then hell bomb people at night. We dont like that.

Trumps remarks to reporters came as Russia intensified aerial attacks on Ukraine.

July 14

I dont want to say hes an assassin, but hes a tough guy. Its been proven over the years. Hes fooled a lot of people before.

Trump pushed harder against Putin during an Oval Office meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. He said if there was no deal to end the war within 50 days, the U.S. would impose secondary tariffs, targeting Russias trading partners to try to isolate Moscow.

Trump and Rutte also discussed a rejuvenated pipeline for U.S. weapons. European allies plan to buy military equipment for transfer to Ukraine.

Aug. 11

I get along with Zelenskyy, but, you know, I disagree with what hes done, very, very severely, disagree. This is a war that should have never happened.

Trump dismissed the idea of Zelenskyy joining the summit with Putin, declaring the Ukrainian president had been to a lot of meetings without managing to halt a war that Russia started.

He also lashed out at Zelenskyy for saying Ukraines constitution bans giving up any land.

I was a little bothered by the fact that Zelenskyy was saying, Well, I have to get constitutional approval. I mean, hes got approval to go into war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap? Because therell be some land swapping going on.

Trump also noted that I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or even a third party place.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

By The Associated Press
ExxonMobil signs deal to explore for oil and gas near Trinidad despite criticism

ExxonMobil signs deal to explore for oil and gas near Trinidad despite criticism View Photo

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (AP)  ExxonMobil signed a deal on Tuesday to explore a vast area near Trinidad and Tobago for oil and gas, even as the twin-island nation faces pressure to focus more on green energy deals.

The search will take place off Trinidads east coast, in a region that spans more than 2,700 square miles (7,000 square kilometers) and is more than 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) deep, according to government officials.

The deal was signed following six months of negotiations that were held at a record pace, said John Ardill, ExxonMobils vice president of global exploration.

There are no guarantees of success, Ardill cautioned during the ceremony. But many of the largest discoveries and developments in the world are occurring in deep-water environments similar to what you have here.

Ardill said ExxonMobil is committed to starting a geophysical survey in the next six months to collect data needed to identify prospects for oil and gas, after which, it will begin drilling for testing.

Using nearby Guyana as an example, Ardill said it took the country less than five years to start producing oil after the initial discovery. He noted that 10 years after that discovery, Guyana is currently producing around 650,000 barrels of oil per day.

We see great potential to replicate the Guyana success here, Ardill told the audience in Trinidad.

While promising to help expedite the process, Trinidad and Tobagos Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said the necessary oversight and guardrails will be in place to ensure standards are not compromised.

The prime minister said the agreement with ExxonMobil provides additional energy security for the Caribbean nation of approximately 1.4 million people. She noted that while there would be efforts to reduce carbon emissions during the project, Trinidad and Tobago would not hold back on using its energy resources.

The Northern Hemisphere developed their countries to the fullest and are now trying to put on us that we should clamp down on our carbon emissions, (that) we should look not too much to hydrocarbons, Persad-Bissessar said. Trinidad and Tobago has a competitive advantage when it comes to hydrocarbons, when it comes to the energy sector, and we should not lightly surrender that.

ExxonMobil first began operations in the twin-island republic in February 1998, but left in 2003 after its exploration efforts were unsuccessful.

The ExxonMobil deal comes after a planned energy production partnership involving Trinidad and Tobago and neighboring Venezuela was halted by the U.S. government revoking two Office of Foreign Assets Control licenses for the partnership. The licenses were necessary due to U.S. sanctions against Venezuelas energy industry.

___

This story corrects the depth of the area to be explored to 6,500 feet (2,000 meters).

By ANSELM GIBBS

Associated Press
GUATEMALA CITY (AP)  Anti-kidnapping teams freed 11 guards overnight after they were held hostage by gang members for most of a day in two Guatemalan prisons, demanding that authorities move their imprisoned leaders to other facilities.

Deputy Security Minister Jose Portillo confirmed the guards release shortly before midnight Tuesday, but didnt provide any details. It remained unclear on Wednesday what, if any, concessions the government made, but the National Civil Police said in a statement that anti-kidnapping teams had freed guards in both prisons. Authorities had retaken control of both prisons.

Police also said they had recovered the hostages guns and cell phones, as well as five pistols the prisoners carried. It said five inmates were responsible and would face charges.

Riots had broken out early Tuesday in two prisons in Guatemala City, where the guards were captured by members of the rival Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha gangs. A guard and an inmate who suffered bullet wounds in the melee were evacuated during the course of the day to receive medical treatment.

Videos circulated online by the prisoners showed the guards blindfolded with their hands bound. In one, a prisoner read a statement saying the gangs wanted their leaders returned to the prisons where they were previously housed, something Guatemalas interior minister had earlier ruled out.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Colombians bid farewell to presidential hopeful Uribe after shooting at political rally View Photo

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Colombians on Wednesday bid farewell to senator and presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay, who died more than two months after being shot during a political rally in the South American countrys capital.

Family, friends, members of Congress and a delegation of government officials from the United States honored Uribe, whose coffin was draped with Colombias flag. The 39-year-old died Monday in the hospital where he had been since the June 7 shooting. Thousands of mourners paid their respects Tuesday.

The bullets that took his life not only broke the hearts of his family, they reopened the fractures of a country that has yet to find peace, Senate President Lidio Garcia said, referring to Colombias long history of violence against politicians.

Uribe had become one of the strongest critics of Colombias current government. In October, he joined the list of politicians seeking to replace Gustavo Petro, the first leftist to govern Colombia, in the May 2026 elections.

Petro and Vice President Francia Marquez on Wednesday said on social media that they would not attend Uribes funeral out of respect for his familys wishes.

We are not going not because we do not want to, we simply respect the family and avoid that the funeral of Senator Miguel Uribe is taken over by supporters of hate, Petro posted on X.

Uribe was shot three times, twice in the head, while giving a campaign speech in a park in a working-class Bogota neighborhood. Authorities have arrested six people, including the teenager they say shot him, but they have not determined who ordered the attack or why.

The shooting, caught on multiple videos, alarmed Colombians who have not seen this kind of political violence against presidential candidates since Medellin drug lord Pablo Escobar declared war on the state in the 1990s.

Uribes mother, well-known journalist Diana Turbay, was among the victims in that period. She died during a police rescue after being kidnapped by a group of drug traffickers led by Escobar seeking to block their extradition to the U.S.

If my mother was willing to give her life for a cause, how could I not do the same in life and in politics? Uribe, who was 5 when his mother was killed, said in an interview with a Colombian news outlet last year.

After lying in state since Monday, Uribes coffin, flanked by members of the presidential guard, was carried on foot from Congress to the Primate Cathedral of Colombia, located a few meters away in Bogotas iconic Plaza de Bolivar. His wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, accompanied the coffin with their 4-year-old son.

To break up a family  to take a fathers son, a wifes husband, a childrens father  is the greatest act of evil that can exist, Tarazona said during the Eucharist.

A hearse then took Uribe through the streets of Bogota to the citys Central Cemetery. The cemetery is the oldest in the city and the final resting place of figures such as Liberal leader Luis Carlos Galan, who was shot dead in 1989 while giving a presidential campaign speech in Bogota.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america

By ASTRID SUAREZ

Associated Press
Brazils Lula announces $5.5 billion in credits for exporters hit by US tariffs View Photo

SAO PAULO (AP)  The Brazilian government on Wednesday unveiled a plan to support local companies affected by a 50% tariff imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on several of the countrys exports.

Dubbed Sovereign Brazil, the plan provides for a credit lifeline of 30 billion reais ($5.5 billion), among other measures.

Hours later, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new sanctions against at least two Brazilian officials, in a move the South American nations health minister rebuked.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva described the plan, which includes a bill to be sent to Congress, as a first step to help local exporters. The leftist leader, whose poll numbers have gone up since the tariffs against his country were announced, once again said he and Trump have never spoken, and claimed the American president does not want to negotiate.

Top congressional leaders attended Wednesdays ceremony at the presidential palace in Brasilia, a first in months, in a sign of growing political support for Lula in response to Trump.

Brazils plan

Brazils measures include postponing tax charges for companies affected by U.S. tariffs, providing 5 billion reais ($930,000) in tax credits to small- and medium-sized companies until the end of 2026, and expanding access to insurance against cancelled orders.

The plan also incentivizes public purchases of items that could not be exported to the U.S.

Brazils government is also granting a one-year extension of tax credits for companies that import items so they can produce goods for exportation. That mechanism is called drawback.

We cannot be scared, nervous and anxious when there is a crisis. A crisis is for us to create new things, Lula said. In this case, what is unpleasant is that the reasons given to impose sanctions against Brazil do not exist.

Trump has tied the 50% tariff on many imported Brazilian goods to the judicial situation of his embattled ally, former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest.

Brazils president added that for now he will not use the countrys reciprocity law to impose higher tariffs on American imports coming to Brazil.

Ricardo Alban, the chairman of the Brazilian industry confederation, said he hopes this plan is behind us as quickly as possible. He described it as palliative, but necessary.

Nothing justifies us being on the lowest of tariffs to going to the highest of tariffs, Alban said.

Economy or politics?

Trump has repeated a narrative pushed by Bolsonaros allies, which claims the former Brazilian presidents prosecution for attempting to overturn his 2022 election loss is part of a deliberate breakdown in the rule of law, with the government engaging in politically motivated intimidation and committing human rights abuses.

Our American friends, every time they decide to fight with someone, they try to create an image of a devil against the people they want to fight with, added Lula, who pledged to find markets to buy Brazilian goods that will not go to the U.S.

Lula repeated on Wednesday that Brazils judiciary is independent. The executive branch, which manages foreign relations, has no control over Supreme Court justices, who in turn have stated they wont yield to political pressure. Bolsonaros trial is expected to come to the sentencing phase sometime between September and October.

If what happened at the Capitol (the U.S. riots on Jan. 6, 2021) had happened in Brazil, he (Trump) would be on trial here too, Lula said.

Earlier in August, Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who oversees the case against Bolsonaro, was sanctioned under the U.S. Magnitsky Act, which is supposed to target serious human rights offenders. De Moraes has argued that defendants were granted full due process.

Rubios response

Only hours after Lulas plan was announced, Rubio said the U.S. would restrict visa issuance to Cuban and complicit third-country government officials and individuals responsible for Cubas exploitative labor export program.

Rubio said on X that the Brazilian government program More Doctors, which was started in 2013 with thousands of Cuban doctors spreading nationwide, was an unconscionable diplomatic scam of foreign medical missions.

Brazils Health Minister Alexandre Padilha, who was in the same job when the program was founded, later said the initiative will survive to unjustifiable attacks from no matter who.

This program saves lives and it is approved by those who matter most: the Brazilian people, Padilha said. We will not bow to those who are against vaccines, against research, against science and now against two key people in my first tenure as health minister, Mozart Sales and Alberto Kleiman (who had their U.S. visas revoked).

Brazils government says the initiative currently has almost 25,000 medical professionals operating, but did not provide figures on how many of those are Cuban.

Lawmaker Eduardo Bolsonaro, a son of the former president who is seeking amnesty for his father and others implicated in the alleged coup plot, praised the U.S government.

This measure is a clear message: neither ministers, nor lower-tier bureaucrats nor their family members are immune. Sooner or later, everyone who contributed to support those (autocratic) regimes will answer for what they did  and there will be no place to hide, he said.

Earlier, Brazils Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said that his country is being sanctioned for being more democratic than its aggressor.

We will face, as we have, many difficult situations and we shall overcome, Haddad said. This one comes from the outside, but unfortunately it has the support of radicalized sections of Brazils society.

___

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america

By MAURICIO SAVARESE

Associated Press
Sonora Unit of CHP patrol View Photo

Tuolumne, CA  A casino goer placed a terrible wager when he gave a ride to another player, who ended up stealing his vehicle.

The CHP disclosed that recently, during the early morning hours, dispatch received a report of a 2004 Dodge Durango vehicle being stolen from a Tuolumne Road residence. Once on the scene, the victim, a 45-year-old Modesto man, told officers that he offered a ride to a Manteca man and fellow casino-goer, 40-year-old Craig Allen Montalvo II. On the way, he stopped at a residence on Tuolumne Road, leaving Montalvo II in his vehicle. When he returned, he discovered his passenger and SUV had disappeared.

The officer contacted the Black Oak Casino security, who located the vehicle on security footage, leaving the casino at about 3:30 a.m. A short while later, an officer spotted the SUV at the Chevron gas station on Highway 108 in Jamestown, and Montalvo was taken into custody for felony vehicle theft.
Irans president mocks Netanyahu over pledge of help in water crisis

Irans president mocks Netanyahu over pledge of help in water crisis View Photo

TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday mocked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus offer to help with Irans water crisis.

Pezeshkian said on X that Israel has denied Palestinians access to water and food, so cant be trusted.

A regime that deprives people of Gaza from water and food says it will bring water to Iran? A MIRAGE, NOTHING MORE, he said.

Pezeshkian also said during a Cabinet meeting in Tehran that those with a deceptive appearance are falsely claiming compassion for the people of Iran.

First look at the difficult situation of Gaza and (their) defenseless people, especially children who are struggling  because of hunger, lack of access to potable water and medicine, because of a siege by the brutal regime.

Netanyahu addressed Iranians in a video message on Tuesday, pledging that Israel would help solve the countrys severe water shortages once Iran is free from the current government, according to Israeli media, including The Jerusalem Post.

The remarks represent a transformation from a state of a war to political spats. In June, Israel carried out waves of airstrikes on Iran, killing nearly 1,100 people, including many military commanders. Retaliatory Iranian strikes killed 28 people in Israel.

On Sunday, Pezeshkian told a group off officials that we do not have water, we do not have water under our feet and we do not have water behind our dams, so you tell me what do we do? Someone comes and tells me what do I have to do?

He said that we are in a serious and unimaginable crisis, and added that his administration is in touch with experts who are trying to find a solution to the problem.

Experts say years of drought and water mismanagement led to the crisis.
Sonya Massey shooting prompts Illinois law requiring disclosure of police recruits backgrounds View Photo

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP)  Illinois law now requires that prospective police officers approve the release of personal background records in response to last summers shooting of Sonya Massey, an unarmed Black woman, in her home by a sheriffs deputy who had responded to her call for help.

Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday signed the legislation, which requires disclosure of everything from job performance reports to nonpublic settlement agreements. It resulted from indiscretions that came to light in the background of Sean Grayson, the ex-sheriffs deputy charged with first-degree murder in the case.

Pritzker, surrounded by Masseys family in the state Capitol, said the first-in-the-nation law should serve as an example for other states as he let Masseys spirit guide us to action.

Our justice system needs to be built on trust, the Democrat said. Communities should be able to trust that when they call the police to their home, the responding officer will be well-trained and without a history of bias or misconduct, and police officers should be able to trust that they are serving alongside responsible and capable individuals.

The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Doris Turner, a Springfield Democrat and friend of the Masseys, and Chicago Democratic Rep. Kam Buckner, who noted that Thursday marks the 117th anniversary of the three-day Race Riot in Springfield that led to the founding a year later of the NAACP.

Who is Sonya Massey?

Massey, 36, was a single mother of two teenagers who had a strong religious faith and struggled with mental health issues. In the early morning of July 6, 2024, she called 911 to report a suspected prowler outside her home in the capital city of Springfield, 201 miles (343 kilometers) southwest of Chicago.

Grayson and another deputy searched but found no one. Inside Masseys house, confusion over a pot of hot water Massey picked up and her curious response to Grayson  I rebuke you in the name of Jesus  which the deputy said he took to mean she wanted to kill him, prompted him to fire on Massey, hitting her right below the eye.

What prompted the legislation?

The 31-year-old Grayson was 14 months into his career as a Sangamon County Sheriffs deputy when he answered Masseys call. His arrest two weeks later prompted an examination of his record, which showed several trouble spots.

In his early 20s, he was convicted of driving under the influence twice within a year, the first of which got him kicked out of the Army. He had four law enforcement jobs  mostly part-time  in six years. One past employer noted that he was sloppy in handling evidence and called him a braggart. Others said he was impulsive.

What does the law require?

Those seeking policing jobs must sign a waiver allowing past employers to release unredacted background materials, including job performance reports, physical and psychological fitness-for-duty reports, civil and criminal court records, and, even otherwise nonpublic documents such as nondisclosure or separation agreements.

It isnt punitive to any police officer. The same kind of commonsense legislation needs to be done nationwide, James Wilburn, Masseys father, said. People should not be able to go from department to department and their records not follow them.

The hiring agency may see the contents of documents sealed by court order by getting a judges approval, and court action is available to compel a former employer to hand over records.

Several departments need to pick up their game and implement new procedures, but whats listed here (in the law) is what should be minimally done in a background check, said Kenny Winslow, executive director of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, who helped negotiate the proposal.

Would the law have prevented Graysons hiring?

Ironically, no. Most of what was revealed about Grayson after his arrest was known to Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who was forced to retire early because of the incident. Campbell was aware of Graysons shortcomings and, as a result, made him repeat the states 16-week police training course.

Even an incident that didnt surface until six weeks after the shooting  a dash-cam video of Grayson, working as a deputy in a nearby county, ignoring an order to halt a high-speed chase and then hitting a deer with his squad car  would not have disqualified him, Campbell said at the time.

We cant decide who they do or dont hire, but what we can do is put some parameters in place so that the information will be there and the right decision can be made, Buckner said.

Whats next?

Grayson, who also faces charges of aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct, has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to go to trial in October.

Publicity persuaded Judge Ryan Cadagin to move the proceeding from Springfield to Peoria, 73 miles (117 kilometers) to the north. The incident has garnered international news coverage, prompted activists rallies, and led to a $10 million civil court settlement.

By JOHN OCONNOR

AP Political Writer
Armed robbers in latest Philadelphia-area Brinks truck heist took $700,000 or more, police say View Photo

PHILADELPHIA (AP)  Police are investigating whether the armed robbery of a Brinks truck on Tuesday outside a Philadelphia-area store is related to four other attacks on armored vehicles in and around the city this summer.

Two armed males got away with between $700,000 and $800,000 in the midday Tuesday heist at an H Mart in Elkins Park, according to Cheltenham Township police. The robbers  one described as armed with an AR-15-style pistol, the other with a handgun  fled with the cash and later abandoned their vehicle nearby, police said. No shots were fired, and no one was injured.

Cheltenham Township Police Lt. Andrew Snyder said its the first such robbery in their township, but authorities are looking into whether it may be connected to four robberies of armored cars in and around Philadelphia since June that police and the FBI are investigating as possibly related.

Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that three people from Philadelphia who were arrested in early August are charged in connection with the $2 million armed robbery of a Brinks armored vehicle outside a Home Depot on June 21.

A Loomis armored transport vehicle was held up outside an Aldi in a different neighborhood five days later. Then on July 2, a Brinks truck was held up outside a Dollar General at a shopping center. And on July 15, police had a report of two suspects robbing one of the armored vehicles in northeast Philadelphia.

FBI agent Wayne Jacobs told CBS News Philadelphia that law enforcement recovered most of the money stolen in the June 21 heist, as well as a number of long weapons and handguns. Some of the money had been spent on jewelry, clothes and other items, he said.

If this is the type of activity youre going to engage in, if you look at the timeline, six weeks from the time of the incident until the time of the arrest, Jacobs said, its just a matter of time before youre held accountable for your actions.
An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 13, 2025 shows a China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, departing from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

A China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, prepares to depart from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Aug. 13, 2025. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 13, 2025 shows a China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, preparing to depart from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

A China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, prepares to depart from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Aug. 13, 2025. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

A China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, departs from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Aug. 13, 2025. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Photo by Tang Pumeng/Xinhua)

A China-Europe freight train bound for Baku, Azerbaijan, departs from Xi'an International Port Station in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Aug. 13, 2025. The X9043 train, fully loaded with 55 containers of photovoltaic modules, set off from Xi'an to Baku on Wednesday. This departure marked a new milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an since the launch of the first service in 2013 exceeded 30,000. (Photo by Tang Pumeng/Xinhua)
Trump warns of severe consequences if Putin does not agree to stop war after summit

Trump warns of severe consequences if Putin does not agree to stop war after summit View Photo

BERLIN (AP)  President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after the two leaders meet for a summit later this week in Alaska.

Trump made the comment in response to a question from a reporter after announcing this years Kennedy Center Honors recipients in Washington. He did not say what the consequences might be.

The remark came soon after Trump consulted with European leaders, who said the president assured them he would make a priority of trying to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine when he speaks with Putin on Friday in Anchorage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined several of Kyivs main allies in the virtual meeting with the U.S. leader, and Zelenskyy told the group that Putin is bluffing ahead of the planned summit about Russias ability to occupy all of Ukraine and shake off sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said afterward that important decisions could be made in Alaska, but he stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected.

Merz convened Wednesdays meeting in an attempt to make sure European and Ukrainian leaders are heard ahead of the summit.

He stressed that a ceasefire must come at the beginning of negotiations. He told reporters that Trump also wants to make this one of his priorities in the meeting with Putin.

At a separate appearance in France, French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit.

Following Fridays summit, Macron added, Trump will seek a future trilateral meeting  one involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy. He said he hoped that it could be held in Europe in a neutral country that is acceptable to all parties.

Merz, who described Wednesdays conversation as constructive and good, said the Europeans made clear that Ukraine must sit at the table as soon as there are follow-up meetings.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

The Ukrainian president, who traveled to Berlin to join the meeting alongside Merz, has repeatedly cast doubt on whether Putin would negotiate in good faith. He said Wednesday that he hoped an immediate ceasefire will be the central topic in Alaska, but also argued that Putin definitely does not want peace.

Zelenskyy said Putin is trying to apply pressure  on all sectors of the Ukrainian front in an attempt to show that Russia is capable of occupying all of Ukraine. Putin is also bluffing that sanctions do not matter to him and are ineffective, he added. In reality, sanctions are very helpful and are hitting Russias war economy hard.

The stakes for Europe

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, describing Fridays summit as a feel-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leaders intentions.

Yet Trump has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He has also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and the president was dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace. Trump said that following Fridays summit, a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders could be arranged, or that it could also be a meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy and me.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the European Union, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

The overarching fear of many European countries is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Merz said that if there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and the Europeans should and must increase the pressure on Moscow.

Land concessions a non-starter for Kyiv

Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the Ukrainian leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not give up any territory it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focused on ending the war have not addressed key Ukrainian demands, including security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensuring that Europe is included in negotiations.

Three weeks after Trump returned to office, his administration took the leverage of Ukraines NATO membership off the table  something Putin has demanded  and signaled that the EU and Ukraine must handle security in Europe now while America focuses its attention elsewhere.

Senior EU officials believe Trump may be satisfied with simply securing a ceasefire in Ukraine and that he is probably more interested in broader U.S. interests and great power politics, aiming to ramp up business with Russia and rehabilitate Putin.

Russian advances in Donbas

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donbas region that comprises Ukraines eastern industrial heartland, which Putin has long coveted.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles have said Ukraines ability to fend off those advances could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

___

Corbet reported from Paris. Associated Press writers Annie Ma in Washington, Lorne Cook in Brussels, Samya Kullab in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

By GEIR MOULSON and SYLVIE CORBET

Associated Press
The Latest: Trump warns of very severe consequences if Putin continues Ukraine war View Photo

U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop his war in Ukraine after their Friday summit in Alaska, though he did not say what those consequences might be.

Trumps comment came after a virtual meeting with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who told the group that Putin is bluffing about seeking peace. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the leaders had a constructive and good discussion with Trump.

Heres the latest:

After Trump ramps up DC law enforcement presence some residents protest

Residents in one Washington neighborhood lined up Wednesday to protest the increased presence after the White House said the number of National Guard troops in the capital would ramp up and federal officers would be on the streets around the clock.

After law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint along the busy 14th Street Northwest corridor, hecklers shouted, Go home, fascists and other insults. Some protesters stood at the intersection before the checkpoint and urged drivers to turn away from it.

The action intensified a few days after the presidents unprecedented announcement that his administration would take over the citys police department for at least a month.

 Read more about the larger law enforcement presence and protests

Brazil health minister says his governments program criticized by Rubio will survive

Alexandre Padilha made the comments via social media shortly after the Trump administration stepped up sanctions targeting a Cuban government program that sends Cuban doctors abroad, including to Brazil. U.S. officials say the initiative amounts to forced labor.

This program saves lives and it is approved by those who matter most; the Brazilian people, Padilha said of Mais Medicos (meaning More Doctors in Portuguese).

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he was imposing visa restrictions on an unspecified number of Brazilian, Grenadan and other officials due to what he described as complicit third-country government officials and individuals responsible for Cubas exploitative labor export program.

Brazils government says Mais Medicos currently has almost 25,000 medical professionals operating in Brazil but did not provide figures on how many of those are Cuban.

What to know about the US-Russia summit in Alaska

Its happening where East meets West, in a place familiar to both countries as a Cold War front line of missile defense, radar outposts and intelligence gathering.

Whether it can lead peace in Ukraine after more than 3 1/2 years of war remains to be seen.

It takes place Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson outside Anchorage, according to a White House official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning. It played a key role in the Cold War in monitoring and deterring the Soviet Union.

Its Putins first U.S. trip since 2015, for the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Because the U.S. isnt a member of the International Criminal Court, which has issued a warrant for Putin on war crimes accusations, its under no obligation to arrest him.

 Read more on things to know about the meeting between Trump and Putin

 Dasha Litvinova and Michelle L. Price

Judge weighs whether Trump violated federal law by deploying National Guard to Southern California

The three-day trial over whether the administration broke the law by sending the Guard Guard troops to accompany immigration agents on raids concluded Wednesday.

California has argued that the deployment violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits military enforcement of domestic laws.

Lawyers for the administration said the law does not apply because Trump called up the Guard under an authority that allows deployment if the president is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States.

Federal and military officials were called to testify, and the trials third day largely focused on weedy arguments about the 1878 law and whether the court even had a role in determining the limits of presidential power.

Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard members and later 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June after protests in response to immigration raids around the city.

NY attorney general sues Zelles parent company after Trump administration drops similar case

Letitia James, a Democrat, sued Early Warning Services in state court, alleging that it failed to protect users from fraud by not including critical safety features in Zelles design.

Earlier this year the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau abandoned a similar case after Trump fired its leader and gutted the agency.

In a statement, James office noted that its suit came after the CFPB dropped its lawsuit following a change in the federal administration.

No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam, James said. I look forward to getting justice for the New Yorkers who suffered because of Zelles security failures.

Zelle called the lawsuit a political stunt to generate press, not progress.

James has been a leading antagonist of Trump and sued him dozens of times. Last week AP and other outlets reported that the Justice Department subpoenaed her as part of an investigation into whether she violated Trumps civil rights.

Leaving a top administration post? Trump may have an ambassadorship for you

Diplomacy may be soft power, but in this administration its also a soft landing.

National security adviser Mike Waltz was nominated as U.N. ambassador after he mistakenly added a journalist to a Signal chat discussing military plans.

Then Trump tapped IRS Commissioner Billy Long as envoy to Iceland after Long contradicted administration messaging less than two months on the job.

And last weekend he named State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce as deputy U.N. representative after she struggled to gel with Secretary of State Marco Rubios team.

The appointments can be viewed as consolation prizes for leaving a high-profile post following rocky tenures. They also reflect the degree to which Trump is trying to keep loyalists close, even if their earlier placements were ill-fitting.

Breaking with his former reality TV show The Apprentice, Trump is not telling his appointees Youre fired! but instead offering them another way to stay in his administration.

 Read more about ambassadorships for administration officials

Mexico says 26 capos sent to US were requested by Trump administration, not part of tariff talks

Mexico sent the alleged cartel figures to face justice in the United States because the administration requested them and Mexico did not want them to continue running their illicit businesses from Mexican prisons, officials said Wednesday.

The mass transfer was not, however, part of wider negotiations as Mexico seeks to avoid higher tariffs threatened by Trump, the officials said.

These transfers are not only a strategic measure to ensure public safety but also reflect a firm determination to prevent these criminals from continuing to operate from within prisons and to break up their networks of influence, Mexican Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch said in a news conference on Wednesday.

The prisoners were wanted by U.S. authorities for their roles in drug trafficking and other crimes. In February 29 other cartel leaders were sent to the U.S.

 Read more about the cartel figures being expelled from Mexico

Brazils Lula announces $5.5 billion in credits for exporters hit by US tariffs

The Sovereign Brazil plan also contains other measures in response to 50% tariffs imposed by Trump on several products from the South American nation.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the plan, which includes a bill to be sent to Congress, is a first step to help exporters.

The other measures include postponing tax charges for companies affected by the tariffs, providing 5 billion reais ($930,000) in tax credits to small- and medium-size companies until the end of 2026 and expanding access to insurance against cancelled orders.

The plan also incentivizes public purchases of items that could not be exported to the United States.

Brazils government is also granting a one-year extension of tax credits for companies that import items so they can produce goods for exportation.

Trump rolls back Biden-era antitrust order

The president has revoked an executive order signed by President Joe Biden that was intended to better foster competition through stronger antitrust enforcement.

Trumps new order nullifies the Promoting Competition in the American Economy action of 2021.

The move comes as part of a broader push to promote deregulation while watering down  or wiping out entirely  anti-monopoly protections.

Guard troops expected to ramp up DC missions Thursday

National Guard officials say they expect troops to start doing more missions in Washington that day because orders and plans are still being developed.

The White House forecast an increased presence of troops Wednesday night. A Guard spokesman said the significant increase was at the Guards armory, where troops are staging.

The spokesman, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the planning process, said the numbers are getting closer to the 800 troops that the Trump announced Monday that he was activating.

Neither Army nor District of Columbia National Guard officials have been able to describe the training backgrounds of the troops who have reported for duty so far.

While some Guard members are military police, and thus better suited to a law-enforcement mission, others likely hold jobs that would have offered little training in dealing with civilians or law enforcement.

Make space great again?

Trump has signed an executive order meant to reduce and streamline regulations in an effort to make the U.S. commercial space industry more competitive.

It calls for the creation of an Office of Space Commerce within the Secretary of Transportation.

The order also seeks to enhance American greatness in space by enabling a competitive launch marketplace that can substantially increase commercial space activities in the next five years.

It directs authorities to ease requirements for commercial license and permit appeals for U.S.-based space operators and to reduce or eliminate many environmental reviews.

Trump administration ordered to restore some withheld grant funding to UCLA

U.S. District Judge Rita F. Lin ruled that the administration must restore millions of dollars in National Science Foundation grants to the University of California, Los Angeles.

Lin ruled late Tuesday that the research grants were suspended for reasons she had already ruled arbitrary and capricious and gave the administration until Aug. 19 to show compliance or explain why it has not restored the funding.

It was not immediately clear how much could be returned to UCLA. The schools chancellor said last week that the administration has pulled $584 million in grants from various federal agencies. The judges ruling applies specifically to NSF grants.

The funding was frozen as part of a wider pressure campaign targeting universities that Trump says are out of step with his political agenda.

Trump administration fires all members of transportation advisory committees

The Transportation Department dismissed all the members of its various Federal Advisory Committees as part of a broad effort to remake the groups of industry, labor and government leaders who helped draft new regulations and proposals.

The department said it came in response to a presidential executive order. Labor groups expressed concern.

A DOT spokesperson said many of the committees have not held a single meeting in over a year, while others have not produced recommendations or advisory reports. Worse, some committees have lost sight of the mission, and have been overrun with individuals whose sole focus is their radical DEI and climate agenda.

The AFL-CIOs Transportation Trades Department coalition of unions said the committees play an important role helping ensure safety at agencies like the Federal Railroad Administration. A spokeswoman said it is crucial that all those affected by safety issues are represented.

Federal agents will patrol the streets 24/7 in Washington, White House says

Officials said the number of National Guard troops will ramp up and federal officers will be out around the clock.

The changes starting Wednesday night come days after the president made the unprecedented announcement that his administration would take over the police department for at least a month.

Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser is walking a political tightrope. She has called the takeover an authoritarian push but also framed the infusion of officers as a boost to public safety.

Hundreds of federal law enforcement and city police officers who patrolled Tuesday night made 43 arrests, compared with about two dozen the night before.

Councilmember Christina Henderson downplayed the arrest reports as a bunch of traffic stops and said the administration is seeking to disguise how unnecessary the intervention is.

Im looking at this list of arrests, and they sound like a normal Saturday night in any big city, Henderson said.

 Read more about the intervention

Administration steps up sanctions against Cuban program sending doctors to developing countries

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions on an unspecified number of Cuban, Brazilian, Grenadan and other officials, including some in Africa and former employees of the Pan American Health Organization.

Rubio said they are being targeted for their complicity in the Cuban regimes medical mission scheme in which medical professionals are rented by other countries at high prices and most of the revenue is kept by the Cuban authorities.

None of the officials, except for two Brazilian health ministry employees, were named in the statements.

Rubio accused them of being responsible for or involved in abetting the Cuban regimes coercive labor export scheme, which exploits Cuban medical workers through forced labor.

Rubio previously imposed similar sanctions on other officials after announcing the new policy to punish Cuba and countries that accept Cuban health care workers in February.

Trump administrations lawsuit against all of Marylands federal judges meets skepticism in court

U.S. District Judge Thomas Cullen questioned why it was necessary for the administration to sue the states entire federal bench over an order pausing the immediate deportation of migrants challenging their removals.

Cullen did not issue a ruling following a hearing in Baltimore, but he expressed skepticism about the legal maneuver, which attorneys for the Maryland judges called completely unprecedented.

All of Marylands 15 federal judges are named as defendants in the suit, a highly unusual circumstance that reflects the administrations aggressive response to courts that slow or stop its policies.

At issue in the lawsuit is a judicial order barring the administration from deporting any immigrants seeking review of their detention until 4 p.m. on the second business day after their habeas corpus petition is filed.

The Justice Department says that impedes Trumps authority to enforce immigration laws.

Attorneys for the Maryland judges counter that the suit aims to limit the power of the judiciary.

Indiana Democrats warn they may be next in line in redistricting fights

Rep. Cherrish Pryor, a Democrat from Indiana, warned Wednesday that the Texas redistricting fight would have impacts far beyond the Lone Star state, saying while Texas is on the frontlines of this fight, Indiana may be next in line.

President Donald Trump has been pressuring Republican-run states, including Indiana, to redraw Congressional boundaries and dispatched Vice President JD Vance to the state this month to call for a new federal caucus.

Rep. Ed DeLaney, from Indiana, decried Vances visit to Indiana, telling the Associated Press it was insulting and embarrassing.

Never in my life did I think the vice president of the United States would come to my state and ask them to shoplift two districts, he said.

DeLaney also said he has seen potential drafts of redistricting maps for Indiana floating around and said he sensed hesitancy about them from his Republican colleagues. Theres always the risk, he said, that redistricting would backfire for the party that calls for it.

If they have any brains, theyd look at this and ask How does this play out for me? He said. Every one of them won the district they have, and they won them fairly easily.

By The Associated Press
Britain, France and Germany threaten to reimpose sanctions on Iran as nuclear program deadline nears View Photo

BERLIN (AP)  The top diplomats of Britain, France, and Germany threatened to reimpose sanctions on Iran as an end-of-the-month deadline nears for the country to resume negotiations with the West over its nuclear program and cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

The three countries, known as the E3, wrote in a letter to the United Nations dated Friday that they were willing to trigger a process known as the snapback mechanism, which allows one of the Western parties to reimpose U.N. sanctions, if Tehran doesnt comply with its requirements.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted the letter Wednesday to X. He co-signed it along with top diplomats from Germany and the United Kingdom.

E3 have always committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon, the letter said. We have made clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism.

The Iranian government didnt immediately respond to the development, but parliament member Manouchehr Mottaki  who was Irans top diplomat for five years in the 2000s  warned of a swift reaction to any move to trigger the snapback mechanism.

He said the Iranian parliament has a finger on the trigger for quitting the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, or NPT, the international treaty aimed at halting the spread of nuclear weapons. We only need 24 hours to approve quitting the nuclear deal, if the E3 raises the issue at the U.N. Security Council, Mottaki said.

The letter from the E3 comes following a period of apparent diplomatic deadlock after a 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June, where Israeli and American jets struck some key nuclear-related facilities in the Islamic Republic.

The countries met with Iranian officials last month in Turkey at Irans consulate building in Istanbul on the possibility of reimposing international sanctions, lifted in 2015 in exchange for Tehran accepting restrictions and monitoring of its nuclear program.

Irans Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said at the time that he hoped that the meeting would see the E3 nations reassess their previous unconstructive attitude.

Since the war, talks with Washington for a new nuclear deal havent resumed, and Iran has since suspended ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, following the attacks. The IAEAs first visit to Iran since the war didnt entail any visits to nuclear facilities Monday, and cooperation wasnt officially restored.

One of the three countries opting to trigger the snapback mechanism would renew sanctions on Iran, but Tehran renewing cooperation with the Vienna-based IAEA and addressing concerns about its highly-enriched uranium stockpile would delay it, according to a diplomat who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity following Julys meeting in Istanbul.

Iran has had limited IAEA inspections in the past as a pressure tactic in negotiating with the West and it is unclear how soon talks between Tehran and Washington for a deal over its nuclear program will resume.

German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Josef Hinterseher on Wednesday said that the letter once again underlines that the legal preconditions for snapback have long existed.

Our position and our appeal is, very clearly, that Iran still has the choice of deciding to return to diplomacy  and full cooperation with the IAEA, he told reporters at a regular news conference in Berlin.

U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA had assessed Iran last had an organized nuclear weapons program in 2003, though Tehran had been enriching uranium up to 60%  a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.

The IAEA didnt immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

___

Kareem Chehayeb reported from Beirut. Geir Moulson contributed to this report from Berlin.

By STEFANIE DAZIO and KAREEM CHEHAYEB

Associated Press
Israeli gunfire kills at least 25 in Gaza as Netanyahu says he will allow Palestinians to leave

Israeli gunfire kills at least 25 in Gaza as Netanyahu says he will allow Palestinians to leave View Photo

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid in Gaza on Wednesday, health officials and witnesses said, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again called for what he refers to as the voluntary migration of Palestinians from the war-ravaged territory.

Netanyahu wants to realize U.S. President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of over 2 million people through what he refers to as voluntary migration  and what critics have warned could be ethnic cleansing.

Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the strip if they want, Netanyahu said in an interview aired Tuesday with Israeli TV station i24 to discuss the planned offensive in areas that include Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of displaced people shelter. We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave.

Witnesses and staff at Nasser and Awda hospitals, which received the bodies, said people were shot on their way to aid distribution sites or while awaiting convoys entering Gaza.

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month. Hamas and Egyptian officials met Wednesday in Cairo, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou.

Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to talks in Cairo, Netanyahus office said.

Israels plans to widen its military offensive against Hamas to parts of Gaza it does not yet control have sparked condemnation at home and abroad, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire.

The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war. Israel believes around 20 are still alive. Families fear a new offensive endangers them.

When asked by i24 News if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal, Netanyahu responded that he wanted all hostages back, alive and dead.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

Hamas says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The militant group has refused to disarm.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority and Arab countries condemned Netanyahus remark to i24 News that he was very attached to the vision of a Greater Israel. He did not elaborate, but supporters of the idea believe that Israel should control not only the occupied West Bank but parts of Arab countries.

South Sudan calls reports of resettlement talks baseless

Israel and South Sudan are in talks about relocating Palestinians to the war-torn East African nation, The Associated Press reported Tuesday.

The office of Israels deputy foreign minister, Sharren Haskel, said she was arriving in South Sudan for meetings in the first visit there by a senior Israeli government official, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

South Sudans ministry of foreign affairs in a statement called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless.

The AP previously reported that the United States and Israel have reached out to officials of three East African governments to discuss using their territories as potential destinations for Palestinians uprooted from Gaza.

Killed while seeking aid

Among those killed while seeking aid were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, according to staff at Nasser hospital.

Hashim Shamalah said Israeli troops fired toward them as people tried to get through. Many were shot and fell while fleeing, he said.

Israeli gunfire killed five other Palestinians while trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses. The Israeli military said it wasnt aware of any casualties from Israeli fire in that area.

GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites Wednesday.

The U.S. and Israel support GHF, an American contractor, as an alternative to the United Nations, which they claim allows Hamas to siphon off aid. The U.N., which has delivered aid throughout Gaza for decades when conditions allow, denies the allegations.

Aid convoys from other groups travel within 100 meters (328 feet) of GHF sites and draw crowds. An overwhelming majority of violent incidents over the past few weeks have been related to those convoys, the GHF said.

Israeli fire killed at least six other people waiting for aid trucks close to the Morag corridor, which separates parts of southern Gaza, Nasser hospital said.

Israel says it killed a Hamas militant who took hostages

The Israeli military said Wednesday that it killed last week a Hamas militant who took part in the 2023 attack that started the war. It blamed Abdullah Saeed Abd al-Baqin for participating in the abduction of three Israeli hostages.

The Hamas-led attack abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory toward famine. The offensive has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals. The U.N. and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties. Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.

Palestinian fatally shot in West Bank violence

An Israeli settler shot dead a Palestinian on Wednesday in the occupied West Bank, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

The Israeli military said dozens of Palestinians hurled rocks toward an off-duty soldier and another person carrying out engineering works near the village of Duma, lightly wounding them. It said the soldier initially fired warning shots, then opened fire in self-defense.

The Health Ministry identified the deceased as Thamin Dawabshe, 35, a distant relative of a family targeted in a 2015 firebombing in the village by a settler. That attack killed a toddler and his parents. The attacker was convicted and handed three life sentences.

The West Bank has seen a rise in settler violence as well as Palestinian attacks since the start of the war in Gaza, and the Israeli military has carried out major military operations there. Rights groups and Palestinians say the military often turns a blind eye to violent settlers or intervenes to protect them.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war

By MELANIE LIDMAN and SAMY MAGDY

Associated Press
Yves here. Due to having closely chronicled the 2007-2008 crisis, and then learning even more afterward by continuing to dig into what happened, yours truly has a strong point of view about what happened. In his post below, Richard Murphy correctly points out that private debt excesses and not public debt, are what triggers financial crises. He points to a strong parallel to the runup to the crisis, that of widespread overvaluation of real estate. Recall that William White and Claudio Borio of the Bank of International Settlements were sounding warnings starting in 2003 about frothy residential real estate prices in many markets, particularly in the Anglosphere.

However, the reason no one anticipated the near collapse of the global financial system in September 2008 was that that was not a real estate bubble implosion but a derivatives crisis. As we explained long-form in ECONNED, the use of a statistical arbitrage strategy led to the creation of CDOs whose assets were primarily credit default swaps referencing particularly rancid tranches of subprime mortgage bonds (the inclusion of ~20% of securities, as opposed to CDS, greatly increased the market for these CDOs). This structure was extremely leveraged and in and of itself drove the demand for >50% of subprime mortgage bond origination during the so-called toxic phase of the subprime mortgage lending.

More generally, the use of credit default swaps created risk exposures greatly in excess of the value of subprime mortgage bonds. Most experts estimate the derivative wagers were 4-6 times the value of real economy exposures.

And as we further explained in ECONNED, those CDO and CDS exposures wound up disproportionately at systemically important, undercapitalized financial institutions.

So we are not disputing Murphys thesis that a crisis of some sort looks likely, and will become even more so with no course correction. However, what made 2008 distinctive, in a bad way, was the degree of gearing, as in leverage on leverage. Consider the impact of the CDO strategy we sketched out above:

If you look at the non-synthetic [non-CDS] component, every dollar in mezz ABS CDO equity that funded cash bonds created $533 dollars of subprime demand.

And there were other market-goosing effects, such as artificially lowering credit spreads (finance speak for making subprime mortgage loans cheaper than they would otherwise have been).

However, the unwind of a mere real estate bubble can be pretty bad, as the example of Japan and the US S&L crisis demonstrate.1 And unlike 2007-2008, where many expert observers such as the Bank of England, were warning of the dangers of credit default swaps, CDOs, as well as the position of roughly sixteen systemically important institutions, there is much less understanding of where leverage on leverage bombs lurk today.2

So if the debt-bomb is largely real estate and the scale is destructively large, the most likely result is zombification rather than a meltdown.

But an open question is whether a big unwind in such an economically important sector as real estate will trigger the explosion (or perhaps more accurately, implosion) of leverage-on-leverage plays, greatly amplifying the damage and potentially blowing back to the systemically critical payments system. One area of known leverage on leverage, although no one has a good grasp of the severity, is in private equity and private debt funds. For instance (as we decried when we first learned of the practice), private equity firms are not only borrowing heavily at the level of the companies in their funds. Many, if not most, now use subscription lines of credit, which allows them to borrow at the fund level with the unused commitments of the limited partners as the collateral. A 2025 note by law firm Mayer Brown confirms that credit funds are similarly engaging in fund level borrowing.

Crypto is another possible venue for leverage on leverage. The crypto-valuation plunge in late 2022 led to the collapse of Silvergate Bank, whose deposits were 98% crypto, and had also engaged in lending against crypto holdings. But I have yet to see a good decomposition of the role of the lending by Silvergate as opposed to merely a traditional bank run in its demise. US regulators have been making some attempts to make sure that stablecoins are properly backed by real assets, which largely undermines the attraction of being in that business at all. Another big crypto worry is that proposed rules put no limits on rehypothecation, while there are strict limits for US securities. Rehypothecation means that the collateral a customer posted for a loan can be repledged by the lender to obtain another loan. The fact that the UK did not have limits on rehypothecation and Lehman exploited that amplified the damage done by Lehmans demise.3

These actual and potential bubbles are growing even as the growth prospects in the Collective West are poor. The UK faces a food crisis this winter. Budget crises are underway or loom in much of Europe due to the economic drag of Russia-sanctions-induced high energy prices, which will be made worse by US tariffs, running into the perceived imperative of greatly increased military spending. In China, as we have discussed, the government is seeking to tamp down an overproduction crisis, which is deflationary. Deflation makes debt overhangs even worse, since prices, particularly for labor falls while the value of borrowings and interest payments do not. Whether China will succeed is an open question. but we do see price anecdata that China is exporting deflation to Southeast Asia.

Note that Murphy had a second post, Could 2008 happen again? Part 2, describing frothy real estate lending in the UK.

By Richard Murphy, a chartered accountant and a political economist who has been described by the Guardian newspaper as an anti-poverty campaigner and tax expert. He is Professor of Practice in International Political Economy at City University, London and Director of Tax Research UK. He is a non-executive director of Cambridge Econometrics. He is a member of the Progressive Economy Forum. Originally published at Tax Research UK.

This is from the FT this morning:

Almost three-quarters of HSBCs Hong Kong commercial property loan book was flashing warning signs by the end of June, as a prolonged slump in retail spending and sluggish demand for office space weighed on Europes largest bank. HSBC is Hong Kongs largest lender and the territory is the single largest source of income for the bank by geography. HSBC has made $32bn of commercial real estate loans in the territory, out of a $234bn Hong Kong loanbook.

Why flag this particular article on a morning when there is so much else that is going so wrong in the world? My reason is to highlight the fact that whilst the worlds media obsesses about government debt, there is, quietly, but undoubtedly inevitably, a growing debt crisis developing in the world banking systems.

Throughout the world, vast quantities of bank lending are secured on domestic and commercial properties. In other words, banks make loans because they can place mortgages over properties that they believe they can sell in the event of their customer defaulting, thereby providing them with the security to make the loan that the customer in question wants, whether that is to buy the property in question or not. This is, of course, how the domestic mortgage market works. It is also how much of commercial bank lending works.

The reason for highlighting what is happening to HSBC in Hong Kong is that the basic assumption made by all bankers worldwide  that property is their security  is something that can go horribly wrong. It did, of course, in the US domestic mortgage market in 2008, and the global financial crisis followed as a consequence. There is every reason to think that this might happen again.

In Hong Kong, the risk arises because there has been a collapse in the rental market in that territory, with the FT noting that rents have fallen by approximately 20 per cent since 2022, whilst the vacancy rate is running at something like 19 per cent, meaning that the properties in question are earning nothing at all.

Elsewhere, the risks differ. For example, in the UK, where approximately 85 per cent of all loans by banks are secured by mortgages, the most significant overall risk comes from the uninsurability of many properties in the future because of the risk that they might be flooded by rising seawater levels. This is true for many domestic properties. However, the problem might be even bigger in the commercial sector. It is thought that up to 80% of all commercial bank loan portfolios are secured on properties that might be subject to this risk. Just look at the flood risk map for central London and you will see precisely why this is the case.

The point I am making, therefore, is a straightforward one. Whilst politicians, neoliberal commentators, the mainstream media, and others wish us to be distracted by the supposed risk that government debt poses to us, and to our grandchildren  the lucky ones of whom will inherit a share of it  the real likely debt risk that will create the next global financial crisis is almost certainly already on the balance sheet of most of the worlds major bankers. That is because it is represented by overvalued property where the chance of loan repayment is low precisely because the properties in question will, at some point in the not too distant future, become unsaleable, either because of changes in the market demand for property within the commercial sector, or because flood risks will mean that the buildings in question will be uninsurable, creating a crisis for the banks because the security that they have for their lending will no longer be of any value.

To put this another way, the assumption that 2008 could not happen again is wrong. It could, because the next global financial crisis might well be precipitated by overvalued bank balance sheets, as was the case in 2008, even if the precise reasons for the overvaluation might change.

Bankers never, it seems, learn, and as fools in charge of money, they appear to be all too readily parted from it. We will, of course, all end up eventually paying the price for that.

____

1 The reason the damage from the S&L crisis was not as severe as most anticipated was that Greenspan was able to engineer a very steep yield curve, with cheap short-term rates but hefty intermediate and long-term yields. So banks were able to rebuild their balance sheets much faster than anticipated by engaging in simple-minded, traditional borrow short, lend long practices.

2 We fiercely criticized Geithner, Paulson, and Bernanke at the time for not hauling the big players into a room and demanding that they fess of about their CDOs and CDS positions and who the protection writers were. That might, for instance, given them an earlier warning of the critical position of AIG and the monoline insurers (the latter did not come into focus until early 2008).

3From Financial News:
Yves here. Given the imminent Trump-Putin summit, Russia is very much in the focus, as is the new US provocation in its Caucasus back yard via Trumps loudly-announced plan for a 99 year lease on the Zangezur Corridor, which borders Iran. The article below very usefully describes how no deal whatsoever has been done. All that has been inked is a non-binding memorandum of understanding. The obnoxious attempt to rebrand the Zangezur Corridor as the Trump Special, erm, the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, is not past the napkin doodle stage either. The article points out the agreement is vague, adding little to what the two [Armenias Pashinyan and Azerbaijans Aliyev] had already stated many times previously, and does not solve the elephant in the room, the Azerbaijan insistence that Armenia take constitutional steps to cede Nagorno Karabakh.

Colonel Macgregor offered a similarly dim view in an aside on a fresh interview with Daniel Davis at Deep Dive. Starting at 41:20:

Well, the Azeri-Armenian deal, quote unquote, is not meaningful. First of all, the parliaments of those respective countries have to approve of the so-called deal that was signed in Washington with Trump, Aliyev and Pashinyan. Thats not going to be easy. In fact, Im not sure it will happen at all. Secondly, that deal is now being denounced of course by the Iranians who see this as another attempt to encircle Iran, effectively as an act of war. Finally, the Russians, who still have troops on the ground in Armenia by the way, have viewed this with considerable, sort of curiosity, since they were the ones who were initially asked to go into the corridor, this is before they renamed the Zangezur Corridor the Trump Corridor of Prosperity Influence and Perpetual Peace or whatever the hell it is. So I would dismiss out of hand that whole nonsensical thing. I dont think it adds any staying power.

Conor has provided an in-depth review of other impediments to this deal in The Trump Route in the Southern Caucasus: Setting Events in Motion, such as a welter of other agreements. If you havent yet had time to read his piece, I urge you to now.

But keep in mind that the US bar for success is low. All it needs to do to score a win is to make trouble for Russia and Iran and sow doubt about existing agreements.

By Eurasianet, an independent news organization that covers news from and about the South Caucasus and Central Asia, providing on-the-ground reporting and critical perspectives on the most important developments in the region. Cross posted from OilPrice

The August 8 Joint Declaration between Armenia and Azerbaijan, facilitated by the US, is a non-binding memorandum of understanding for continued peace talks, not a final peace treaty.

A key element of the deal involves a proposed American-managed transit corridor (TRIPP) between Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan exclave, which faces significant operational uncertainties and no clear timeline.

The agreement is expected to intensify geopolitical tensions, as both Russia and Iran view increased US involvement in the South Caucasus as a direct threat to their regional influence and have vowed to resist it.

Buckle up. The geopolitical struggle among the United States, Russia and Iran is poised to intensify before any durable peace comes to the Caucasus.

The provisional peace deal signed August 8 at the White House by US President Donald Trump, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani leader Ilham Aliyev is a potential diplomatic thunderbolt that transforms the Caucasus, giving the United States the upper hand in what traditionally has been Russias backyard and Irans playground. But it is important to understand that the August 8 Joint Declaration is merely the end of the beginning: there is a long way to go before the aspirations outlined in the document are fulfilled.

Though the three signatories to the Joint Declaration touted it as transformative, marking the dawn of an era of eternal peace, the documents provisions are vague and non-binding. In effect, it is a memorandum of understanding, not a contract.

Pashinyan and Aliyev initialed what was described as a peace agreement. In fact, what they signed was a pledge to keep on talking about a lasting settlement, adding little to what the two had already stated many times previously.

We acknowledged the need to continue further actions to achieve the signing and ultimate ratification of the [Peace] Agreement, and emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening peace between our two countries, the Joint Declaration reads.

It is worth noting that the Joint Declaration does not mention the main obstacle believed to be preventing the signing of a peace treaty  Azerbaijans demand that Armenia amend its constitution to unequivocally recognize Bakus sovereignty over the Nagorno Karabakh territory, reconquered by Azerbaijani forces in 2023.

The Joint Declaration does appear to potentially overcome another major obstacle  Azerbaijans insistence on a corridor between its mainland and its Nakhchivan exclave providing unhindered access for Azerbaijani citizens. The solution is American management of the corridor.

But the American-managed route cannot yet be considered a sure thing. The Joint Declaration acknowledges as much, stating that US and Armenian officials merely express their determination to pursue efforts in good faith to achieve this goal in the most expeditious manner. Key operational details remain up in the air, and there is no timeline for negotiations.

This [August 8] summit was a step forward in the peace process, but the agreements reached leave a lot of questions unanswered. Much of what was agreed at the White House was a repackaging of things that Armenia and Azerbaijan had already agreed in principle, Joshua Kucera, a senior analyst for Crisis Group, said in a statement.

Some of Bakus and Yerevans motivation was surely the desire to get on Trumps good side by giving him a role, Kucera added.

The transit corridor has been dubbed the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or TRIPP. Given his predilection for self-aggrandizement, putting the presidents name on the corridor may well increase the odds that Washington remains closely engaged, keeping pressure up on Armenia and Azerbaijan to keep the process moving forward.

For Trump, his personal brand is now at stake. He has got a lot of skin in this game.

But there are plenty of other forces at work that are intent on scuttling the deal. Russia and Iran, for one, are unlikely to stand idly by as the United States seeks to usurp their regional influence.

If the ideas outlined in the Joint Declaration come into being, in essence, an American semi-state military base [will be] created in Armenia, explained Russian political scientist Sergei Markov in a Telegram post. This is a strong blow to Russias interests [and] this is a strong blow to Irans interests because all this is right next to Irans northern border.

This changes the entire strategic situation throughout the entire South Caucasus, Markov added.

Influential Iranian leaders have already indicated that Tehran will use all means at the governments disposal to prevent the plan from becoming reality. Ali Akbar Velayati, a former long-time Iranian foreign minister and now a policy advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, characterized the corridor as a political plot posing a mortal threat to Iranian security and economic interests, the Tasnim news agency reported.

NATO wants to lie between Iran and Russia like a viper, but Iran will not permit it, the Iranian news agency quoted Velayati as saying. He threatened that a US-managed corridor would turn into a graveyard of the mercenaries of Donald Trump, not a route owned by the US president.

The Kremlin, meanwhile, is clearly not pleased with developments, but has been more circumspect in revealing how Russia will respond.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova hinted that heavier US involvement will cause heightened volatility in the Caucasus. The involvement of extra-regional players should work to strengthen the peace agenda and not create additional difficulties and dividing lines, Zakharova stated. We would like to avoid the sad experience of Western assistance in resolving conflicts in the Middle East.

Beyond probable mischief-making by Moscow and Tehran, final approval by Armenia is a question mark. Pashinyan is likely to face determined domestic opposition to the plan. Polling data indicates that only about one-third of Armenians believe the country is headed in the right direction.

For Armenia, [the peace deal] offers a path toward economic diversification and greater strategic autonomy, but its success hinges on navigating domestic polarization and countering external interference, said Nima Khorrami, an associate research fellow at the OSCEAcademy in Bishkek.

Ultimately, there are lots of hurdles on which TRIPP could stumble.

If Trump is looking for an easy peacemaking win, hes not there yet in the South Caucasus, Kucera said. A lot of hard work remains to be done to achieve a real, sustainable peace.
The Posse Comitatus Act looms over President Trumps decision to take over the Washington, D.C. police, his previous decision to assume control of the California National Guard, and the redistricting battle in Texas.

On August 11, The White House issued a presidential memoranda titled Restoring Law and Order in the District of Columbia which included these key passages:

The local government of the District of Columbia has lost control of public order and safety in the city, as evidenced by the two embassy staffers who were murdered in May, the Congressional intern who was fatally shot a short distance from the White House in June, and the Administration staffer who was mercilessly beaten by a violent mob days ago. Citizens, tourists, and staff alike are unable to live peacefully in the Nations capital, which is under siege from violent crime. It is a point of national disgrace that Washington, D.C., has a violent crime rate that is higher than some of the most dangerous places in the world. It is my duty to our citizens and Federal workers to secure the safety and the peaceful functioning of our Nation, the Federal Government, and our city. Mobilizing the District of Columbia National Guard. Pursuant to my authority under the Constitution and laws of the United States and the District of Columbia, I direct the Secretary of Defense to mobilize the District of Columbia National Guard and order members to active service, in such numbers as he deems necessary, to address the epidemic of crime in our Nations capital. The mobilization and duration of duty shall remain in effect until I determine that conditions of law and order have been restored in the District of Columbia. Further, I direct the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with State Governors and authorize the orders of any additional members of the National Guard to active service, as he deems necessary and appropriate, to augment this mission.

Aficionados of incipient fascism might be a bit disappointed in the rhetoric compared to this banger from April:

Maybe the more restrained tone is a function of lessons learned in the California deployment which is now the subject of litigation based on the Reconstruction Era Posse Comatitus Act.

Or maybe its boiler plate based on Trumps stated plans to use the National Guard to take back other cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Baltimore and Oakland.

Critics were quick to notice that each city named Trump has a Black mayor.

Trump has also tasked the Pentagon with creating a military reaction force for civil unrest. The Washington Post has details:

The Trump administration is evaluating plans that would establish a Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force composed of hundreds of National Guard troops tasked with rapidly deploying into American cities facing protests or other unrest, according to internal Pentagon documents reviewed by The Washington Post. The plan calls for 600 troops to be on standby at all times so they can deploy in as little as one hour, the documents say. They would be split into two groups of 300 and stationed at military bases in Alabama and Arizona, with purview of regions east and west of the Mississippi River, respectively. Cost projections outlined in the documents indicate that such a mission, if the proposal is adopted, could stretch into the hundreds of millions of dollars should military aircraft and aircrews also be required to be ready around-the-clock.

Meanwhile in Texas, Trumps acolytes are attempting to criminalize Democratic opposition to the unprecedented mid-decade redistricting plan.

Ill have more on that further down, but lets look at the big picture first.

Steven D. Schwinn of the John Marshall Law School lays out the constitutional implications of Trumps words and actions:

These attacks follow a common course of action. First, President Trump lodges an aggressive or even outlandish constitutional claim in support of a new controversial policy. Often, his claim, if ultimately accepted, would dangerously aggrandize the power of the presidency at the expense of the coordinate branches and the states in violation of the separation of powers and federalism. Next, he adjusts his claim, and his policy, in reaction to push-back from Congress, the courts, or the states. But he does so only begrudgingly, often leaving a trail of damage to our structural Constitution in his wake. Finally, he nevertheless achieves his original policy goal, or much of it, by further abusing the coordinate branches and the states. In addition to following a common course of action, President Trumps attacks also have a common feature: They exploit the comparative institutional strengths of the presidency and the comparative institutional weaknesses of the coordinate branches and the states. President Trump is all too aware that the modern president wields enormous power. At the same time, he realizes that Congress, the courts, and the states often lack effective institutional powers or cooperative ability to rein him in. (And even when effective institutional powers may exist, they can be frustrated or undermined when the coordinate branches or the states share President Trumps political objectives.) By exploiting the institutional strengths of the presidency and the institutional weaknesses of the coordinate branches and the states, President Trump can yet further aggrandize his own power at the expense of Congress, the courts, and the states.

Re: Trumps D.C. takeover, His rhetoric at his news conference was racially charged and alarming:

Its becoming a situation of complete and total lawlessness. Well get rid of the slums, too. We have slums here. Well get rid of them. I know its not politically correct. Youll say, Oh, so terrible. No, were getting rid of the slums where they live.

Whatever is driving Trumps actions, its not crime data.

It should also be noted that Joe Biden campaigned on a promise to grant D.C. statehood or at least expanded home rule but did the opposite in office.

Trump supporters like podcaster Benny Johnson amplified and expanded on Trumps rhetoric, telling his 5.5 miillion YouTube subscribers its time for ethnic cleansing in the nations capitol:

I believe entire neighborhoods, probably, need to be emptied, need to be bulldozed. I believe that there are places that are so crime-ridden and so infested that you just need to  like youre just gonna have to crack down. Youre going to have to do the job, and youre going to have to get the crime out of Washington. Thats my personal experience.

So far, the reality isnt quite that dramatic. From The New York Times:

About a dozen members of the National Guard appeared in five military vehicles near the Washington Monument as the sun set, a stark juxtaposition to a peaceful evening scene of people jogging by with headphones and walking their dogs. An Army official said troops were continuing to gather at the D.C. Armory and were expected to deploy around national monuments, and near a U.S. Park Police facility in the Anacostia neighborhood of southeast Washington. Mr. Trump on Monday described the nations capital in apocalyptic terms as a crime-infested wasteland  a description that ignores the extent to which crime has been falling in the city over the last two years. But it remains unclear whether the eventual show of force will match the presidents rhetoric. The initial deployment near the Washington Monument, at least, often resembled something less fearsome, with troops snapping photos of themselves with visitors. They left roughly two hours after they arrived. We just did a presence patrol to be amongst the people, to be seen, Master Sgt. Cory Boroff said as he stood near a Humvee. Of the people, for the people in D.C., he added. He said he did not know where they would be headed next.



Ms. Leavitt boasted that a federal task force, which includes some local officers, made 23 arrests on Monday evening in connection with a range of crimes. In Washington, a city of roughly 700,000 people, the Metropolitan Police Department makes an average of 68 arrests a day, officials said. City officials said the National Guard troops would not have the authority to make arrests.

Meanwhile the consequences of Trumps April California caper continue to mount.

Starting with the California law suit:

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a statement ahead of trial beginning tomorrow at 10:00 AM PT in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in Californias lawsuit challenging the unlawful use of federalized California National Guard troops for civilian law enforcement in Los Angeles in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act. Attorney General Bonta and California Governor Gavin Newsom sued the Trump Administration in June after President Trump sent federalized California National Guard members and Marines into Los Angeles communities to patrol and engage in other law enforcement activity prohibited by the Posse Comitatus Act. He did so over the objections of the Governor, against the wishes of local law enforcement, and for reasons unsupported by conditions on the ground. Two months ago, the federal government deployed military troops to the streets of Los Angeles for the purposes of political theater and public intimidation. This dangerous move has no precedent in American history, erodes trust between the American military and the public, and pulls our servicemembers away from their vital role in fighting wildfires and tackling the fentanyl epidemic, said Attorney General Bonta. Today, 300 federalized California National Guard members remain tools in the Presidents game, and the Trump Administration seeks to advance the argument that there should be no limits on what federal troops can do. But that is not what our law allows. We begin trial with the facts and the law on our side  and we look forward to making our case in court. At trial, California will argue that the Trump Administrations decision to embed federalized California National Guard members and Marines within a domestic law-enforcement agency  the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency and to deploy them widely throughout the state, all while asserting there are no limits on what those federal troops can do, is unprecedented and illegal. In attempting to justify the unjustifiable, the Trump Administration ignores both the clear tests that courts have established over decades for interpreting the Posse Comitatus Act and determining what conduct violates the Act, as well as career military officers understanding of that Act.

There are also allegations that Trumps actions in California had a negative impact on morale:

Three different advocacy organisations representing military families said they had heard from dozens of affected service members who expressed discomfort about being drawn into a domestic policing operation outside their normal field of operations. The groups said they have heard no countervailing opinions. The sentiment across the board right now is that deploying military force against our own communities isnt the kind of national security we signed up for, said Sarah Streyder of the Secure Families Initiative, which represents the interests of military spouses, children and veterans. Families are scared not just for their loved ones safety, although thats a big concern, but also for what their service is being used to justify. Chris Purdy of the Chamberlain Network, whose stated mission is to mobilize and empower veterans to protect democracy, said he had heard similar things from half a dozen national guard members. Morale is not great, is the quote I keep hearing, he said.

Its deeply ironic that California is basing its case on the Posse Comatitus Act, an artifact of the end of Reconstruction:

To ensure that racist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan would not intimidate Republican voters, Federal troops were stationed throughout polling places in the South. In the closest election in history, the Southern-favoured Democrat Samuel Tilden lost to Republican candidate Rutherford Hayes by a single electoral college vote. The presence of federal troops during the election made many Southerners see the military supervision as a tyrannical use of force by Republicans to remain in power. The continual escalation of tensions between the soldiers and Southerners led to the Compromise of 1877, wherein the newly-elected Hayes was forced to withdraw the army from the South. Not satisfied with this withdrawal, in 1878 the Democrats introduced the Posse Comitatus Act. While the Democrats controlled the House following the 1874 midterm election, the Republicans still held a majority within the Senate. Surprisingly, many Republicans were sympathetic to the Act. When introducing the bill, Representative William Kimmel of Maryland skilfully depicted it as another example of Americans rejecting the influences of totalitarianism. He aligned his position with the Founding Fathers fears of a standing army and its ability to enforce martial law by drawing reference to Washingtons use of a civilian militia instead of the Army to quell the 1794 Whisky Rebellion, which was applauded by the Congress. Kimmel convinced many Republicans that this evidenced a history of the federal government disapproving the use of the military for civilian law enforcement. The Act stipulated that the use of the military as a posse comitatus was criminalised unless expressly authorised by an Act of Congress or the Constitution. The use of the military to combat civil insurrection under the 1807 Insurrection Act was included as a statutory exception. President Hayes, convinced that the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments would ensure black suffrage in the South, signed the Posse Comitatus Act into ratification in June 1878.

Not surprisingly, the Posse Comatitus Act has major loopholes and limitations:

One significant loophole is the District of Columbia National Guard. While all other National Guards are commanded by their state or territorial governors, the DC Guard falls under the presidents direct control at all times. Although it can act as a federal force, the Department of Justice has long claimed it can also operate as a non-federal militia that is not constrained by the Posse Comitatus Act. This means presidents can theoretically use the DC Guard for law enforcement whenever they choose. Another loophole is Section 502(f) of Title 32 of the U.S. Code, which allows the National Guard to carry out federal missions at the request of the president or secretary of defense while remaining under state control, thus bypassing the Posse Comitatus Act. While the rest of Section 502 is principally used for training missions, there are no criteria limiting what kinds of missions Subsection f can be used for. The Trump administration exploited this license a few years ago when it invited National Guard troops from 11 states into DC to suppress protests following the murder of George Floyd. This unprecedented action was done without invoking the Insurrection Act, as the president could simply ask sympathetic state governors to give the orders on his behalf. To make matters worse, the Posse Comitatus Act lacks an effective enforcement mechanism. The law is a criminal statute, yet theres no real threat of prosecution for violating it in practice. No one has ever been convicted for violating the Posse Comitatus Act, and only two people have ever been prosecuted  both more than 140 years ago.

There has already been some interesting testimony in the trial, via Democracy Docket:

The second day of trial again saw testimony from Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, the head of Task Force 51, which oversaw the National Guard troops and Marines involved in the military mission to Los Angeles. Sherman said soldiers were given training materials on Posse Comitatus. These materials included a list of specific activities prohibited by the act: Security patrols, traffic control, crowd control and riot control. Though the act prohibits members of the military from carrying out certain actions, Sherman said there was a constitutional exception that permitted such activities under certain circumstances.



After stressing that hes not a lawyer, Sherman said Department of Defense attorneys advised him that the military was allowed to carry out prohibited activities because such acts were in line with Trumps order for troops to protect federal property and personnel.



The advice Sherman said he received appears to derive from an expansive controversial theory of executive authority called the protective power. It asserts that presidents have inherent constitutional authority to use the military to protect federal property, personnel and functions and that such actions cannot violate Posse Comitatus. The theory, which is not explicitly found in the Constitution but is instead a legal interpretation of the Take Care Clause, served as the basis of Trumps deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles.

Politico had more on Shermans testimony:

The most revelatory testimony of the day came from Sherman, who initially commanded the Guard troops Trump deployed to Los Angeles. He recalled his opposition to a request by immigration authorities for military support during an operation slated for Fathers Day in the citys MacArthur Park. Intelligence, Sherman recalled, showed a minimal threat to federal immigration agents, and the proposed operation would have sent military vehicles through the center of the park. But when he expressed misgivings, Gregory Bovino, the chief patrol agent of the Customs and Border Patrols El Centro sector  who has taken on a leading role in the Los Angeles immigration crackdown  pushed back strongly, Sherman recalled. Asked by a lawyer for California if Bovino questioned Shermans loyalty to the U.S. over the issue, Sherman answered simply yes and did not elaborate.

Meanwhile in Texas, Trump acolyte Attorney General (and U.S. Senate candidate) Ken Paxton is raising the stakes for Texas Democrats attempting to resist redistricting:

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday asked a Tarrant County judge to jail former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke, in another escalation in Republicans broader effort to put an end to Texas Democrats walkout over a new congressional map. Paxton sued ORourke and his political group, Powered by People, last week, arguing that the group was deceptively fundraising for and illegally supporting Texas Democrats walkout. Tarrant County District Judge Megan Fahey quickly granted Paxtons request to temporarily block ORourke and Powered by People from fundraising for Democrats or spending money to cover their expenses. On Tuesday, Paxton claimed that ORourke had violated that temporary injunction at a Fort Worth rally Saturday, when he told the crowd, There are no refs in this game, fuck the rules. According to a video of the event, ORourke appeared to say that phrase after urging the crowd to support retaliatory redistricting in other blue states  not in relation to the injunction.

Paxton and Presidential aspirant Governor Greg Abbott have previously sought to have quorum breaking Democrats thrown out of office.

The Ettingermentum newsletter explains some of the context of the unprecedented national redistricting battle and how Dems could strike back:

nothing even remotely like what were seeing now has ever happened before. Historically speaking, mid-decade redistricting almost always only happens as a result of court orders. When it has occurred on a purely partisan basis, it has never been on a systemic, nationally-organized scale involving tit-for-tat promises of retaliation. Because of this, the mainstream mediaalways insufficient in its coverage of gerrymandering even in the best of timeshas so far been incapable of covering these rapid developments in a coherent way. How Democrats Could Strike Back: California: 5-9 seats, but only if voters approve of a constitutional referendum.

New York: 3 seats or more, but not until 2028.

Maryland: One seat, but potential legal challenges make a new map unlikely.

New Jersey: 1-2 seats, but it may already be too late.

Illinois: 1-3 seats, but one is the most realistic.

Minimum immediately achievable gains before 2026: Six seats.

Maximum possible gains before 2026: Fifteen seats.

He also notes that the Texas Democrats have already given up:

Democrats believe theyve accomplished their mission by killing the first special session and by raising national awareness about the mid-decade redistricting effort. It is unclear which day they will be in Austin at the Capitol, but they stress that they will push for Hill Country flooding relief to be the priority. After our initial reporting online and on television, a spokesperson for the Texas Democratic Caucus sent the following statement to ABC News: Members are still assessing their strategies going forward and are in a private meeting to make decisions about future plans currently, he wrote. If and when Texas House Democrats breaking quorum decide to go home is squarely dependent on the actions the Governor, Speaker, and Texas Republicans in charge make with regard to prioritizing flood victims over redistricting that hurts Texans.

That kind of sums up the situation in a nutshell.

Trump and the GOP are aggressively pushing Constitutional limits while Democrats are putting up a mostly performative opposition.

Despite Trumps imploding popularity, the Democrats are even less popular and unlike Trump, have no competing vision of governance.

Expect the slide into a post-Constitutional order to continue.

Ill give Ralph Nader the last word, if only because his strident doomerism seems a bit over-the-top:

The approaching greater dangers from Trump will come when he pushes his lawless, dictatorial envelope so far, so furiously, so outrageously, that it turns his GOP valets in Congress and the GOP-dominated US Supreme Court against him. Add plunging polls, a stagflation economy, and impeachment, and removal from office would become a political necessity for the GOP in 2026 and beyond. In 1974, the far lesser Watergate transgressions by President Richard Nixon resulted in Republican Senators demanding Tricky Dicks resignation from office.



If Trump were to be impeached and removed from office, would he try to stay in office? Here is where a real constitutional explosion can occur. He would have to be escorted from the White House by US Marshals who are under the direction of toady Attorney General Pam Bondi. The Supreme Court has held that the Constitution grants the sole Power to try impeachments in the Senate and nowhere else. Thus, the courts would provide no remedy to a lawless president wanting to stay in power.



Little restraint on lawless Trump from the Congress and the Supreme Court, and only feeble, cowardly responses by the flailing Democratic Party (and the Bar Associations for that matter) thus far, make for the specter of violent anarchy and terror. Trump has fatalistic traits. Armageddon shapes his ultimate worldview. Ponder that for a dictator with his finger on more than the nuclear trigger.

Heres hoping Ralphs overstating his case.
JERUSALEM/GAZA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir on Wednesday approved the main framework of a government plan to expand the offensive in Gaza to areas not yet under Israeli control.

The offensive will later target refugee camps in central Gaza and the southern area of Al Mawasi, where most of Gaza's 2.2 million residents have taken shelter, according to a statement by the Israeli military.

The principles of the plan were approved in a meeting of security officials earlier on Wednesday, the statement said, adding that "the central concept for the plan for the next stages in the Gaza Strip was presented and approved, in accordance with the directive of the political echelon."

Zamir's approval came three days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military had been ordered to enter the "decisive stage" of the Gaza war, aimed at seizing the remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City, refugee camps in central Gaza and Al Mawasi's southern area, an order condemned domestically and internationally amid Gaza's worsening humanitarian crisis.

Meanwhile, Mahmoud Basal, the spokesperson for Gaza's civil defense, told Xinhua at least 41 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza on Wednesday.

In southern Gaza, 12 people were killed by Israeli army gunfire while waiting to receive food near an aid center southwest of Khan Younis. In central Gaza, five people were killed and 10 others injured as the Israeli army targeted civilian gatherings near the aid distribution point at the Netzarim axis. Four were killed by Israeli fire while waiting for aid near Kissufim, east of Deir al-Balah, Basal said.

In Gaza City, at least 12 were killed during an Israeli airstrike at the home of the Abu Daf family in the Zeitoun neighborhood, east of the city, and eight others, including five children, were killed when tents housing displaced people were targeted in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, south of the city, Basal said.

According to local eyewitnesses, the Israeli army continued to demolish residential buildings in Rafah, Khan Younis, and eastern Gaza, in addition to artillery shelling in the eastern outskirts.

Gaza-based health authorities reported Wednesday eight more deaths from famine and malnutrition in the past 24 hours, including three children, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths to 235, including 106 children.

The total number of people killed by Israeli strikes since October 2023 has risen to 61,722, with another 154,525 wounded, according to the health authorities. 
UNDER SIEGE: Israeli cabinet approves plan to fully occupy Gaza amid international condemnation

Israels security cabinet has approved a plan to militarily occupy the entire Gaza Strip, starting with the seizure of Gaza City. While Israel avoids calling it an "occupation," officials confirm the goal is full military control.

Israel has presented its five war-ending principles: Destroy Hamas as a military and governing force, secure the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, strip Hamas of weapons to prevent future attacks, maintain long-term Israeli security control over Gaza and establish a new governing body in Gaza, excluding Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.

The UN condemned the plan as illegal, warning of more deaths and suffering. The EU hinted at consequences for Israel, saying it violates international law. Germany paused arms exports to Israel, while the U.S. gave mixed signals, unofficially supporting Israel but facing domestic criticism.

Hamas called the plan a "war crime" and claimed Israel sabotaged ceasefire talks. The group vowed strong resistance, warning that an invasion would be costly for Israel.

Families of hostages and opposition leaders accused Netanyahu of risking hostages' lives. Military officials warned that the occupation could worsen the hostage crisis. Gaza is already in crisis, and famine, displacement and destruction could worsen under occupation. The situation risks escalating into the wars deadliest phase, with no clear path to peace or security for Israelis or Palestinians.

The Israeli security cabinet has approved a controversial plan to occupy the entire Gaza Strip, according to local media reports on Friday, Aug. 8. The decision marks a dramatic escalation in the ongoing war with Hamas and has drawn sharp criticism from the United Nations, European leaders and even some of Israels closest allies.

The operation is expected to begin with the seizure of Gaza City. Residents of the Strip's capital, home to roughly one million Palestinians, will reportedly be forced to evacuate before Israeli forces impose a siege and launch a full-scale ground assault. Israeli officials have avoided using the term "occupy " in official statements, likely to sidestep legal obligations under international law.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined five core principles guiding Israel's strategy:

Dismantling Hamas  The complete destruction of Hamas as a military and governing force. Return of hostages  Securing the release of Israeli captives currently held in Gaza. Demilitarization of Gaza  Preventing future attacks by stripping Hamas of weapons and military infrastructure. Israeli security control  Maintaining indefinite military dominance over Gaza to prevent future threats. Establishment of a civil administration  Creating a new governing body in Gaza that is not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

An Israeli official told Axios that the plan involves forcibly emptying Gaza City of civilians within two months, followed by a siege targeting Hamas fighters. An analysis of satellite images has revealed a significant military buildup near Gazas borders, signaling preparations for a major offensive. (Related: Warsaw and Tel Aviv clash over Gaza as historical wounds resurface; Polish PM Tusk compares Israel to Nazis.)

The announcement has triggered swift condemnation from world leaders and humanitarian organizations. Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, called the plan a violation of international law.

Turk warned it would lead to "more killing, more unbearable suffering, senseless destruction." He urged Israel to halt the offensive immediately, citing the International Court of Justices (ICJ) ruling that Israel must end its occupation of Palestinian territories.

European Council President Antonio Costa warned that Israels decision would worsen Gazas humanitarian crisis and undermine international law. He hinted at potential repercussions for EU-Israel relations, stating that the "decision must have consequences."

Germany, one of Israels strongest European allies, has announced that it would suspend arms exports that could be used in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the move "disappointing," while other European nations, including the U.K., urged Israel to reconsider its escalation.

While the Biden administration has not issued an official statement, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticized countries pressuring Israel instead of Hamas. Meanwhile, hostage families and opposition leaders in Israel accused Netanyahu of endangering captives by pursuing a prolonged military campaign.

Hamas condemned the plan as a "new war crime," accusing Israel of deliberately sabotaging ceasefire negotiations. The group claimed both sides were close to a deal before Israel withdrew, though no independent verification supports this claim. Moreover, Hamas warned that any full-scale invasion would "come at a high cost," vowing fierce resistance.

Domestic opposition: "A death sentence for hostages"

Inside Israel, families of hostages and opposition leaders slammed Netanyahus decision. Protesters gathered outside the cabinet meeting, calling the plan a "death sentence" for their loved ones.

Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid described the move as a "disaster," accusing far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich of pushing Netanyahu into a reckless, prolonged war. Military officials have also reportedly warned that a full occupation could jeopardize hostage lives.

With Gaza already devastated by months of bombardment, famine and mass displacement, a full-scale occupation risks further catastrophic humanitarian fallout. The international community remains deeply divided, with some nations calling for restraint while others continue to support Israels right to self-defense. As troops mass near Gazas borders, the stage is set for what could be the bloodiest phase of the war yet.

Watch this episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as the Health Ranger Mike Adams talks about how the DHS is blocking disaster aid to Democrat-run cities that reject Israel's ethnic cleansing.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Borrell slams EUs complicity in Israeli war crimes, calls for action.

Escalating crisis in Gaza: Over 135 KILLED in 24 hours as aid desperation and violence surge.

Israel approves Gaza City occupation as Netanyahu defies critics, warns of Hamas neo-Nazi tactics.

Sources include:

MiddleEastEye.net

ABCNews.go.com

Reuters.com

Brighteon.com
Laughing gas deaths explode 578% as unregulated whippits flood smoke shops, target teens

Nitrous oxide deaths in the U.S. surged 578 percent since 2010, with 156 fatalities in 2023, driven by flavored products marketed to teens and young adults.

The gas, legally sold without age restrictions, is often branded with candy-like flavors and cartoonish designs, making it appealing to minors.

Chronic use causes severe health risks, including nerve damage, paralysis, and death, yet it remains widely available in gas stations and online.

Experts warn this is a nationwide crisis fueled by corporate greed and lax regulations, with social media glamorizing its use.

Calls grow for retail bans and stricter controls, as lawsuits and tragic deaths highlight the urgent need for action to protect vulnerable youth.

A once-obscure party drug is now killing Americans at an alarming rate, with fatalities surging 578 percent in just over a decade... and the victims are increasingly young, misled by vendors peddling candy-flavored poison.

New research published in JAMA reveals nitrous oxide, sold as "whippits" in gas stations and smoke shops, claimed 156 lives in 2023, up from just 23 deaths in 2010. The colorless gas, legally sold without age restrictions, is marketed with flavors like "bubblegum" and "mango," hooking a generation of teens who dismiss its risks until its too late.

"This is not local to one area; its everywhere," warned Dr. Andrew Yockey, University of Mississippi public health researcher and co-author of the study. "How long do we have to wait before we consider this a problem?" The answer, tragically, is written in obituaries: from Florida horse rider Meg Caldwell, who died in a vape shop parking lot after years of addiction, to the 25-year-old radiology technician killed by a driver high on nitrous oxide. These arent accidents; theyre the predictable outcome of corporate greed and regulatory apathy.

A silent epidemic

Nitrous oxide, used medically as a dental anesthetic, has morphed into a recreational time bomb. Unlike prescription drugs, whippits face no federal controls. Vendors sell them openly in single-use canisters or massive 2kg tanks, often branded with cartoonish designs resembling energy drinks. "There is no age limit, and this is available online and in gas stations across the country," said Yockey. "These flavored nozzles  bubblegum, mango  tell me these arent being marketed to kids?"

The numbers dont lie: Eighth graders now rank among the most frequent users, with more than 13 million Americans admitting to lifetime misuse in a 2023 federal survey. Social media glamorizes the trend, with viral videos of influencers inhaling "Strawberries and Cream" gas amassing 40 million views. Meanwhile, manufacturers like Galaxy Gas hide behind culinary loopholes, posting recipes for "Chicken Satay with Peanut Chili Foam" while their products flood black markets.

The body count doesnt laugh

Recreational nitrous oxide isnt the harmless giggle-fest its nickname suggests. Inhaling pure gas, unlike the oxygen-mixed medical version, starves the brain of oxygen, causing seizures, psychosis and heart failure. Chronic use depletes vitamin B12, triggering nerve damage so severe that some victims end up paralyzed or incontinent. The sister of the late Meg Caldwell described her addiction, saying she temporarily lost the use of her legs after an overdose but continued buying it, sometimes spending hundreds of dollars on it in a single day.

The FDA finally issued a warning in 2025, but the damage was done. By then, UK lawmakers had outright banned the gas, while U.S. regulators twiddled their thumbs. Only Louisiana prohibits retail sales, leaving other states to play catch-up as corpses pile up.

"Legal doesnt mean safe," stressed co-author Dr. Rachel Hoopsick. "Frequent or high-volume use can lead to serious neurological damage, psychiatric symptoms, or even death."

How many more children will die?

The solution isnt complicated. The first step is to ban retail sales. If nitrous oxide requires medical training to administer safely, why is it sold beside Slim Jims at gas stations?

It's also time to prosecute predatory marketing. Flavors and video game branding target kids as blatantly as Big Tobaccos Joe Camel. Parents and doctors also need to be educated about the problem and exercise vigilance.

The Politte familys $745 million lawsuit against United Brands, a distributor linked to a fatal crash, proves corporations know the risks. Yet vendors still prioritize profits over lives. As Dial lamented, "The owners of smoke shops are not going to do the moral thing and take this off the shelves themselves."

With deaths rising exponentially, America must choose: protect children or protect an industry peddling paralysis in a can. The laughter has long since stopped.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

OleMiss.edu

BBC.co.uk

Newsweek.com
Trump strikes unprecedented deal: Nvidia, AMD to pay U.S. 15% of China chip sales

Nvidia and AMD agreed to pay the U.S. government 15 percent of their China-based chip sales (H20 and MI308 processors) to secure export licenses, marking a novel blend of trade restrictions and revenue extraction.

Critics question the logicif the chips threaten security, why allow sales? If not, why impose a "tax"? Officials argue it maintains U.S. influence by keeping China reliant on mid-tier American tech.

The deal follows years of U.S.-China tech tensions, including Bidens 2023 chip export bans and Trumps April restrictions, with recent negotiations easing some trade barriers.

Nvidia and AMD are investing billions domestically (e.g., Nvidias $500B AI server pledge), aligning with Trumps push for economic nationalism and reshoring tech production.

Key questions remainhow will the U.S. use the revenue, and will this set a precedent for other firms? The deal signals a shift toward economic statecraft intertwining trade and national strategy.

Just when the artificial intelligence sector thought it had escaped the worst of the U.S.-China trade war, President Donald Trump has made another aggressive play  one that could reshape the semiconductor industry. According to a Financial Times report, tech giants Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have agreed to pay the U.S. government 15 percent of their revenues from chip sales in China as part of a deal to secure export licenses. This unprecedented arrangement marks a new frontier in economic policy, blending trade restrictions with direct revenue extraction.

The mechanics of the deal

Under the agreement, Nvidia will hand over 15 percent of its earnings from sales of its H20 chip in China, while AMD will do the same for its MI308 processor. Both chips are critical to artificial intelligence applications, powering everything from data centers to military systems. The deal comes after months of negotiations, with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang personally lobbying the White House to reverse an April ban on H20 exports. (Related: Nvidia wins U.S. approval to sell AI chips to China after Trump administration reverses ban.)

The arrangement is not just a financial transaction  its a political statement. The Trump administration has long pressured U.S. firms to prioritize American interests over global profits, and this deal enforces that principle in a way never seen before.

A national security tightrope

Critics argue the agreement undermines U.S. security. If the H20 and MI308 chips pose a risk to national security  as some intelligence experts claim  why allow their sale at all? Conversely, if they dont, why impose what amounts to a punitive tax?

Geoff Gertz of the Center for New American Security summarized the dilemma: Either selling these chips to China is a threat, in which case we shouldn't be doing it, or it's not, in which case this penalty makes no sense.

Yet Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has defended the move, calling the H20 Nvidia's fourth-best chip and arguing that keeping Chinese firms dependent on American technologyeven mid-tier productsstrengthens U.S. influence.

The backstory: Trade wars and tech battles

This deal didnt emerge in a vacuum. The U.S. has been locked in a high-stakes tech war with China for years, with semiconductors at the center. The Biden administration first restricted advanced chip exports in 2023, prompting Nvidia to create the H20  a downgraded version specifically for China. But Trumps April ban threw even that compromise into doubt, until last-minute negotiations reopened the door.

The broader trade war has seen tit-for-tat tariffs, rare earth mineral disputes, and escalating restrictions on tech firms. Yet recent months have brought a thaw, with China easing rare earth export controls and the U.S. lifting some software design bans. This chip deal may be part of that delicate dance  a way to keep trade flowing while still asserting dominance.

Corporate concessions and political wins

Nvidia and AMD aren't just handing over cash  they're also making major U.S. investments. Nvidia has pledged to build $500 billion in AI servers domestically, while AMD and other chipmakers like Micron have announced billions in American manufacturing expansions.

This aligns perfectly with Trump's economic nationalism. His administration has repeatedly strong-armed companies into reinvesting at home, from Apples $100 billion commitment to Microns Idaho plant. The 15% revenue carve-out could be seen as another lever in that strategy  forcing Big Tech to fund U.S. priorities directly.

The unanswered questions

Two major uncertainties linger. First, how will the U.S. use this windfall? Officials havent decided whether the funds will bolster defense budgets, subsidize domestic chip production, or simply pad the Treasury. Second, will this set a precedent? If other firms must pay similar fees to access Chinas market, the global tech supply chain could face seismic shifts.

A new era of economic statecraft

This deal is more than a trade footnoteits a bold experiment in economic policy. By directly taxing China-bound tech sales, the Trump administration is blurring the lines between commerce and national strategy. Whether this strengthens American security or merely enriches the Treasury remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: In the high-stakes game of chips and geopolitics, the rules just got rewritten.

Watch the Health Ranger Mike Adams discuss the NVIDIA artificial intelligence.

This video is from the Katy Odin channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

China bets on Huaweis Ascend chips to replace banned Nvidia technology.

AI, AI and even more AI: Nvidia announces projects and products lined up for 2025.

2 Chinese nationals charged for illegally smuggling AI chips.

CHIPS WAR: U.S. moves to disrupt Chinas chip industry  but its effects could be felt worldwide.

Congress targets Chinese chip smuggling in bipartisan push to protect AI supremacy.

Sources include:

ZeroHedga.com

BBC.com

Reuters.com

Brighteon.com
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders faces backlash over Arkansas-Israel agreement

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a "Memorandum of Understanding" in Israel to strengthen ties between the state and the country, calling it an "unbreakable bond."

The announcement sparked immediate outrage online, with many criticizing Sanders for aligning with a government under international scrutiny for alleged war crimes in Gaza and the West Bank.

Social media users accused Sanders of neglecting Arkansas' pressing domestic issues, pointing to poverty and underfunded services while questioning her overseas focus.

According to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report, Arkansas ranks 47th overall among U.S. states, performing poorly in crime, healthcare, education and infrastructure, despite strengths in fiscal stability.

The backlash reflects deeper frustrations among Arkansans who feel state leadership prioritizes ideological or international agendas over solving critical problems at home.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders is facing immediate and intense backlash online after announcing that she signed a "Memorandum of Understanding" (MoU) to strengthen the diplomatic, economic and spiritual ties between the state of Arkansas and the nation of Israel.

"Closed out an incredible final day in Israel by signing a Memorandum of Understanding that deepens the Arkansas-Israel partnership," Sanders posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, along with some photos during the signing ceremony. "This is an unbreakable bond  spiritually, diplomatically and economically." (Related: Anti-Israel boycott forces major French supermarket to leave Jordan.)

The post quickly gained traction from netizens, given that Israel's government is facing increasing international scrutiny over alleged war crimes in Gaza and the West Bank. At the same time, thousands of users took to her comment section to express outrage, calling the deal tone-deaf and questioning the timing given Arkansas' own domestic challenges.

One widely shared post by X user Let's Theorize called the agreement "dystopian," adding, "a 'Memorandum of Understanding' between a State of the Union and a genocidal foreign government, based on a historically illiterate boomer interpretation of the Bible, has got to be some of the most dystopian [stuff] I've ever seen."

Another user, CHICK ON THE RIGHT, wrote: "You're a disgrace. Seventh poorest state in the union and you've given these impoverished people's dollars to genocidal murderers. Zionist supports murderers, pedos, blackmail rings and porn kings. Real Jesus like. Did your evangelical daddy and his DUGGAR cult TEACH YOU THIS? Zero respect."

The criticism also carried a heavy religious and conspiratorial tone in some corners, with several users referencing longstanding grievances related to U.S.-Israel relations, alleged foreign policy manipulations and American political figures' evangelical support for Israel. While some of the replies contained overtly antisemitic language and conspiracy theories, others reflected broader dissatisfaction with the perceived imbalance of priorities in state leadership.

Sanders needs to focus on Arkansas

According to the 2024 U.S. News and World Report, Arkansas ranks 15th in fiscal stability, largely due to its low cost of living and relatively balanced budget; 26th in the economy, showing moderate strength; and 28th in opportunity, which includes factors such as income equality and upward mobility.

The state's Natural Environment came in at 35th, suggesting room for improvement in environmental quality and conservation efforts.

However, Arkansas ranked 47th out of 50 states overall, reflecting significant challenges in several key areas. The state ranked 48th in crimes and corrections, highlighting issues with public safety and the criminal justice system. In health care, Arkansas placed 47th, indicating limited access and quality of medical services. Education was also a weak point, with the state ranking 36th, while infrastructure came in at 41st, pointing to deficiencies in transportation, utilities and public facilities.

These rankings reveal a complex portrait of Arkansas, a state with economic and fiscal potential, but one still grappling with foundational issues in public health, safety, education and infrastructure. Many critics highlighted these figures in contrast to Sanders' overseas commitments, arguing that her focus should remain on improving conditions for Arkansans.

Head over to Chaos.news for more stories of conflicts all around the globe.

Watch this clip of BDS protesters removing products that support Israel from grocery shelves in Northern Ireland.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. to withdraw from UNESCO over Palestine membership, alleged anti-Israel bias.

British prosecutors accused of colluding with Israel to criminalize anti-genocide activists.

Zionist groups urge Trump White House to prioritize deporting anti-Israel protesters.

USCIS expands social media screening for visa applicants amid anti-Israel campus protests.

Judge dismisses anti-Israel group's discrimination lawsuit against Haverford College, criticizing "disingenuous" complaint.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

USNews.com

Brighteon.com
U.S. State Department launches diplomatic offensive against EUs draconian CENSORSHIP law

The Trump administration is mobilizing U.S. diplomats in Europe to lobby against the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), arguing that it threatens free speech and unfairly targets American tech companies like Meta and Google.

A classified State Department cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio directs diplomats to push EU allies to amend or repeal DSA provisions, claiming they institutionalize censorship under the guise of combating hate speech and misinformation.

The U.S. views the DSA as state-coerced speech control, contrasting with the EU's regulatory approach. Officials like VP J.D. Vance warn that EU policies could suppress conservative voices globally.

Major U.S. firms fear the DSA will force them to adopt stricter EU content standards worldwide, while ongoing investigations such as those into Meta and X highlight tensions over enforcement.

The dispute reflects deeper cultural and ideological divides over digital sovereignty. A U.S. loss could embolden global speech regulation, while a win could reshape internet governance free-speech traditions.

The Department of State (DOS) under the second Trump administration is mobilizing U.S. diplomats across Europe to aggressively oppose the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA), warning that the landmark legislation threatens free speech and unfairly targets American tech giants like Meta and Google.

A classified DOS cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Aug. 4 and obtained by Reuters has exposed this coordinated lobbying campaign. The order called on diplomats to urge EU allies to amend or repeal provisions which, according to Washington, institutionalize censorship under the guise of combating "hate speech" and "misinformation."

The DSA, enacted last year, imposes strict obligations on major platforms to remove illegal content, including terrorist propaganda and child exploitation material, while holding them accountable for systemic risks like disinformation. But Washington argues the law's vague definitions of "illegal content" and reliance on government-backed "trusted flaggers" to escalate takedowns effectively empower EU bureaucrats to suppress political and religious discourse. (Related: U.S. State Department slams EU's Digital Services Act as "Orwellian censorship.")

The diplomatic push marks the latest escalation in a transatlantic clash over online governance, with U.S. officials like Vice President J.D. Vance accusing Europe of exporting speech restrictions that could silence conservative voices globally. Historically, the U.S. has framed internet freedom as a bedrock of democratic values, contrasting sharply with the EU's more regulatory approach.

The DSA, alongside the Digital Markets Act (DMA), represents Brussels' boldest bid to reshape the digital ecosystem. But U.S. tech firms claim these laws could force them to adopt European content standards worldwide.

The Washington-Brussels war over online censorship

President Donald Trump has long positioned himself as a defender against "Big Tech censorship," but the cable exposes a deeper philosophical rift. Where Europe sees corporate accountability, Washington detects state-coerced speech control.

The cable instructs diplomats to prioritize cases where American citizens or companies face sanctions under the DSA  documenting arrests, platform bans or asset seizures linked to contentious removals. It also proposes narrowing the DSA's scope by scrapping fines for noncompliance, curbing "trusted flaggers" and dismantling the EU's voluntary Disinformation Code  a measure Rubio's team argues pressures platforms to suppress dissent.

Notably, the directive follows Vance's incendiary remarks at the Munich Security Conference. During the February summit, he accused Germany of "backsliding on democracy" after its intelligence agency labeled the far-right Alternative for Germany party as extremist.

European officials have rebuffed U.S. claims, insisting the DSA safeguards fundamental rights without stifling debate. "The censorship allegations are unfounded," a European Commission spokesperson told Reuters. They noted that national courts, not regulators, determine what qualifies as illegal speech.

Yet skepticism persists, particularly after Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) clashed with EU enforcers over takedown requests. Meanwhile, Mark Zuckerberg's Meta faces investigations under the DSA for alleged failures to curb election disinformation.

For Washington, the fight transcends trade; it's a cultural battleground over who sets the rules for the internet's future. The diplomatic offensive mirrors Cold War-era tensions, where ideological divides sparked proxy conflicts over media freedom. But with the DSA already in force, the administration faces an uphill battle to sway European capitals  leaving U.S. tech giants caught between conflicting legal regimes.

The stakes couldn't be higher. A loss for Washington could embolden global efforts to police online speech, while a win might redefine the limits of digital sovereignty. For now, all eyes are on Europe's response and whether America's free-speech tradition can withstand the Brussels effect.

Watch Clayton Morris and David Thunder discussing the DSA in this clip from "Redacted News."

This video is from the NZ Will Remember channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Vance slams Europe's "Orwellian" speech laws, warns of strained U.S.-EU relations.

Trump administration takes on global censorship: A new frontier for free speech advocacy.

European leaders 'horrified' after JD Vance rips their censorship laws and mass immigration policies at Munich security conference.

Sources include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

StratNewsGlobal.com

Reuters.com

Brighteon.com
Political censorship: YouTube bans exiled Ukrainian journalist and Zelensky critic

Prominent exiled Ukrainian journalist Diana Panchenko's YouTube channel (with over two million subscribers) was removed without explanation. She was known for criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's government on corruption and free speech suppression.

The ban aligns with Ukraine's broader suppression of dissent, including state-controlled media consolidation, opposition media closures and legal actions against critics like Panchenko, who faced sanctions and asset freezes in 2023.

Panchenko opposed Ukraine's military actions in Donbas (calling it a "forever war") and condemned Kyiv's restrictions on independent journalism, which authorities branded as "anti-Ukrainian."

Irish journalist Chay Bowes condemned the removal, questioning unequal scrutiny of Western-aligned critics. YouTube has banned pro-Russian content since 2022 but now faces accusations of silencing anti-government voices.

Panchenko's case highlights growing digital censorship in geopolitical conflicts, raising concerns about tech companies aligning with government narratives and suppressing dissenting perspectives.

YouTube has taken down the channel of prominent exiled Ukrainian journalist Diana Panchenko, in what critics describe as a politically motivated purge.

Panchenko, a former Journalist of the Year awardee, had over two million subscribers in her now-terminated YouTube channel. She was known for her sharp criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys government, particularly its corruption and suppression of free speech. The deletion of her channel follows years of tension between Panchenko and Kyiv  including sanctions and criminal charges levied against her for her reporting, which authorities labeled as "anti-Ukrainian."

The ban comes amid a broader crackdown on dissenting voices in Ukraine, particularly since the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. Zelensky's government consolidated several televised networks under state-controlled programming and shut down opposition-linked media, accusing them of spreading disinformation. (Related: Ukraine's commander-in-chief calls for CENSORSHIP until the war ends.)

Panchenko, a former host at TV channel 112 Ukraine, had long condemned these measures. arguing that they stifled journalistic independence. She also criticized Kyiv's military actions in the eastern Donbas region, calling the conflict a "forever war" orchestrated by Zelensky's administration.

Digital iron curtain: Ukraine's war on dissent

Irish journalist Chay Bowes, a vocal supporter of Panchenko, condemned YouTube's decision in a post on X. "The most dangerous weapon is truth," he wrote. YouTube, owned by Google, has systematically banned Russian state-affiliated media and pro-Moscow creators since 2022, citing violations of its policies on misinformation.

Panchenko's ban on YouTube raises questions about whether similar scrutiny is being applied to critics of Western-aligned governments, and historical context underscores the severity of her case. Since 2014, Ukraine has struggled with media consolidation and political pressure on independent journalists, particularly those questioning official narratives on the war.

Panchenko herself faced legal repercussions in 2023, when Zelensky imposed sanctions blocking her from entering Ukraine for a decade and freezing her assets.

The removal of Panchenko's platform reflects a widening trend of digital censorship in geopolitical conflicts, where tech companies face pressure to align with government narratives. As debates over free speech and misinformation intensify, her case serves as a flashpoint for concerns over who controls the flow of information  and who gets silenced in the process.

Head over to YouTubeCensorship.com for more similar stories.

Watch Scott Ritter and Judge Andrew Napolitano discussing the gradual collapse of the Ukraine lie in this clip.

This video is from the What is happening channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

YouTube censoring evidence of Ukrainian troops embracing Nazi symbols.

Ukraine leads request for social media platforms to censor "disinformation."

What are they trying to hide? YouTube CENSORING videos of Ukrainian soldiers embracing NAZISM.

YouTube erases top Canadian political channel after Canadian Broadcasting Corporation initiates smear campaign.

ELECTION INTERFERENCE: YouTube removes Jordan Peterson interview with presidential candidate RFK Jr. over vaccine comments.

Sources include:

RT.com

X.com

UkraNews.com

Brighteon.com
TIANJIN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Speaking of China's governance philosophy, Yekaterina Khvan from Kazakhstan expressed deep admiration, acknowledging its wisdom and insight.

"The deeply rooted conceptions, such as 'people first,' 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets' and 'building a community with a shared future for humanity,' have left on me a profound impression," said Khvan, a doctoral student at Tianjin Foreign Studies University in north China's Tianjin Municipality.

Specializing in Chinese-Russian translation, Khvan has been systematically engaged in the translation of major political documents from Chinese into Kazakh and Russian since last year.

"I had the privilege of translating several chapters and theoretical sections into Kazakh," she said, while proudly retrieving several bilingual volumes from her bookshelf, including "A Brief History of the Communist Party of China."

Over the years, the university has translated or contributed to over 50 major works, including "A Brief History of the Communist Party of China," totaling more than 6 million Chinese characters. Many of these works have drawn attention from political leaders, scholars and general public across the globe.

"China's ideas, wisdom and solutions travel from here -- across languages and continents -- delivering insight and strength to the world," said the university president Li Yingying.

Yet, the work is far from simple. Translating China's political and cultural terminology -- steeped in history and philosophical nuance -- demands accuracy, subtlety and scholarly depth.

Khvan cites the phrase "mei mei yu gong" in Chinese, which originates from the ancient Chinese classic "The Book of Rites." The expression reflects a broader Chinese vision of inclusive development and cultural coexistence.

To convey its meaning accurately, she delved into ancient texts and philosophical writings to trace its origins and evolution. Then she discussed its modern context with Chinese scholars to understand its relevance today.

After careful consideration, she translated it as "the shared flourishing of all forms of beauty," supplementing it with detailed annotations to explain its core values of harmony, mutual appreciation and collective progress.

"Translating China's central documents is of high political significance and solemnity," she stressed. "These documents embody China's political vision, development strategy and governance wisdom. My task is to grasp the essence and faithfully convey it without deviation."

Her translation journey has not only deepened her understanding of China's development but also reshaped her own worldview.

One word that continues to echo in her mind is "people." "While translating the speeches of Chinese leaders -- particularly sections on poverty alleviation -- I was deeply moved by the people-centered philosophy," she said.

Equally striking was the ecological development concept: "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets."

She noted that Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, but balancing development with environmental protection is a pressing challenge. "China's experience taught me that the environment and the economy are not in conflict -- they can and should advance together," she said.

With the arrival of the Tianjin summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), she feels a renewed sense of pride. As a Kazakhstani scholar living and studying in the host city of SCO activities, she finds herself at the heart of a growing regional dynamic.

She said that through translation, she witnessed the flourishing China-Kazakhstan cooperation under the SCO framework.

"In the era of the Belt and Road Initiative and deepening SCO cooperation, language and translation have taken on a new historical mission -- as vessels of civilizational exchange," she said. 
Bidens handlers nixed ship tour over too many steps, exposing pattern of hiding presidents frailty

Newly released emails reveal the White House canceled a July 2023 ship visit for then-President Biden due to concerns over the number of steps he would have to climb, raising questions about his physical fitness.

The decision came just weeks after Bidens public fall at an Air Force Academy graduation, contradicting White House claims that he was in peak condition.

Reports indicate Bidens team has long shielded him from physically demanding situations, including a 2021 incident where he avoided boarding a British aircraft carrier due to stairs.

Officials hid Bidens limitations while publicly insisting he was fully capable of serving another term.

Just how far were Biden insiders willing to go to trick Americans into thinking he was in perfect condition for another four years in the White House? In a new revelation that further exposes the administrations desperate attempts to conceal the presidents declining physical health, newly released emails show the White House abruptly canceled a planned ship visit in July 2023 because then-President Joe Biden would have had to climb "too many steps."

The decision came just six weeks after Bidens embarrassing fall at an Air Force Academy graduation ceremony, raising serious questions about his ability to fulfill the demands of the presidencyquestions that were repeatedly dismissed by White House officials who gaslighted the American public. The emails, obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by watchdog group Protect the Publics Trust, reveal not only the administrations dishonesty but also its shockingly poor coordination, as the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) only learned of the event through the Philadelphia shipyard rather than direct White House communication.

A pattern of lying to voters

The damning emails, first reported by Fox News, show that Biden was scheduled to tour a National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) during a July 20, 2023, visit to the Philadelphia shipyard in a stop meant to promote offshore wind and clean energy jobs. But just three days before the event, MARAD officials were informed that the ship visit had been scrapped. A July 17 email from a MARAD official to the Department of Transportation (DOT) stated: "No visit to the NSMV vessel is planned after the WH realized how many steps were involved to get on the ship. {True  lots of steps on grating}."

The admission is particularly alarming given the timing. Just over a month earlier, on June 1, 2023, Biden had taken a highly publicized fall on stage at the Air Force Academy graduation in Colorado Springs. The White House quickly dismissed the incident, blaming a rogue sandbag, but the optics were undeniable: an 80-year-old president struggling to maintain his balance. The shipyard cancellation suggests that behind closed doors, Bidens handlers were well aware of his physical limitations, even as they publicly insisted he was in peak condition.

White House incompetence on full display

The emails also expose the administrations chaotic planning and lack of transparency. Shockingly, MARAD officials were left in the dark, learning about the event not from the White House but from the Philadelphia shipyard itself. A July 18 email between DOT staffers confirmed the dysfunction: "MARAD hasnt had anyone reach out to them from WH. All info they have received has been from Philly shipyard."

This lack of coordination is inexcusable, especially for an administration that claims to prioritize professionalism. As Michael Chamberlain, director of Protect the Publics Trust, told Fox News Digital: "There's an awful lot wrong here, beginning with the White House planning a presidential visit to one of the most important shipyards in the nation without bothering to give a heads-up to the Department of Transportation." Chamberlain added, "The president's staff was proscribing events he couldn't physically handle more than a year before he dropped out of the re-election race, all while lambasting anyone who claimed he wasn't fit enough to complete the Ironman Competition."

This incident was not isolated. Reports indicate that Bidens team has repeatedly shielded him from situations that could expose his frailty. Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed in his memoir that Bidens staff refused to let him board the HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier ahead of the 2021 G7 summit, allegedly due to the number of steps.

Johnson wrote: "His staff told us that he would not in fact be boarding our vast aircraft carrierwhich we had proudly stationed in the baybecause it had so many steps; and we wondered what that meant about his physical fitness."

Meanwhile, the White House press office continued to deflect legitimate concerns. A week after the Philadelphia trip, then-Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre dismissed questions about Bidens age by touting his policy achievements, sidestepping the issue entirely. The administrations strategy was clear: deny, deflect, and deceive.

An unforgivable betrayal of public trust

While no reasonable person would mock an elderly individual for struggling with mobility, the Biden administrations deliberate efforts to mislead the American people are indefensible. Voters deserve transparency, especially when it comes to the physical and mental fitness of the most powerful person in the world. Instead, they were fed a carefully crafted illusion that crumbled under scrutiny.

The newly uncovered emails are yet another piece of evidence in a growing mountain of proof that Bidens inner circle knew he was unfit for office but conspired to keep him there anyway. Whether it was hiding his stumbles, avoiding stairs, or scripting his public appearances to minimize unscripted moments, the deception was systemic... and they almost got away with it.

Sources for this article include:

YourNews.com

FoxNews.com

NYPost.com
Chinas heavy-handed response to chikungunya outbreak raises alarms

China has reinstated extreme pandemic-era policies (mass testing, forced quarantines, mosquito eradication) in Guangdong Province due to a Chikungunya outbreak, with nearly 8,000 cases reported.

Chikungunya, spread by mosquitoes (not person-to-person), causes fever, joint pain, and rashes but is rarely fatal  raising doubts about the proportionality of the governments heavy-handed response.

Authorities are using COVID-19-era methods like mass surveillance, movement tracking and forced isolation, sparking public backlash over perceived overreach for a non-contagious disease.

Citizens and social media users question the necessity of strict measures, comparing them to COVID-19 lockdowns and accusing the government of prioritizing control over actual health risks.

The response mirrors Chinas historical use of extreme public health measures, suggesting a broader trend of exploiting crises to tighten governance, with global implications for future health policies.

China has once again turned to extreme pandemic-era measures, this time to combat a rapidly spreading mosquito-borne virus.

In Guangdong Province, where nearly 8,000 cases of chikungunya have been reported, authorities have reinstated mass testing, forced quarantines and aggressive mosquito-eradication campaigns. The outbreak centered in the city of Foshan has reignited fears of government overreach, drawing unsettling parallels to the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdowns that severely restricted civil liberties just a few years ago.

Chikungunya, a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes fever, severe joint pain and rashes. Though rarely fatal, it can lead to chronic pain lasting months or even years  particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Unlike COVID-19 that spreads through respiratory droplets, Chikungunya cannot be transmitted person-to-person making the government's heavy-handed approach all the more controversial. The outbreak began in Foshan, a manufacturing hub just 170 kilometers north of Hong Kong, where more than half of Guangdong's cases have been reported.

By early August, infections had surged past 7,000, with nearly 3,000 new cases emerging in just one week. Hong Kong confirmed its first case  a 12-year-old boy who had recently visited Foshan  raising fears of further spread. (Related: China's chikungunya outbreak spreads amid government secrecy and forced quarantines.)

Despite the fundamental differences between COVID-19 and chikungunya, Guangdong officials have revived the same playbook used during the pandemic. Authorities have reinstated mass testing, requiring citizens to undergo symptom screenings while pharmacies log purchases of fever and pain medications. Infected individuals are being isolated in mosquito-netted hospital wards to prevent further transmission via mosquito bites.

Additionally, aggressive mosquito-eradication efforts are underway including fogging drones, fines for stagnant water and the release of mosquito-eating fish into ponds. Surveillance measures have also been deployed, with movement data being collected in a manner reminiscent of the digital tracking used during COVID-19. These measures have sparked public backlash, with social media users questioning the necessity of such extreme actions for a non-contagious disease.

Government overreach returns in the form of public health measures

Citizens have expressed frustration on Weibo, Chinas tightly controlled social media platform. One user wrote, "It all feels so familiar. But is this really necessary?" Another mocked the quarantine measures, saying, "What's the point? It's not like an infected person is going to bite someone!"

The skepticism is warranted. Unlike COVID-19, which overwhelmed hospitals and killed millions, Chikungunya is rarely life-threatening. The aggressive response suggests Beijing is more interested in maintaining control than tailoring policies to the actual risk.

This is not the first time China has employed extreme measures for public health threats. During COVID-19, the government welded apartment doors shut, enforced brutal lockdowns and tracked citizens via smartphone apps.

The World Health Organization warned in 2023 about rising Chikungunya and dengue cases in the Americas, but few nations responded with such severity. Chinas reaction stands in stark contrast to countries like Brazil, where mosquito control focuses on prevention rather than forced isolation.

For now, Guangdong's outbreak shows no signs of slowing. With cases spreading to neighboring cities and Hong Kong, the government's heavy-handed tactics may intensify. But as public frustration grows, Beijing faces a critical question: Is this about public health or preserving control?

Watch Owen Shroyer reporting about a mystery virus running through Chinese hospitals in this video.

This video is from the TNTVNEWS channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

China BANS the word "COVID-19," downplays severity of country's mysterious pneumonia outbreak.

Outbreak of multiple respiratory infections in China sparks global concerns over public health and CCP transparency.

Here comes COVID 2.0: Wuhan Institute of Virology in China warns that another CORONAVIRUS outbreak is "highly likely."

Sources include:

SHTFPlan.com

RT.com

Old.AsiaPlusTJ.info

Brighteon.com
FAKE SCIENCE and FAKE VACCINE RESEARCH published in medical journals will REMAIN with no retractions, despite RFK Jr. calling BS on it all

The Vaccine Industrial Complex is dug in deep and will be for some time to come. They wont relinquish control so easily, and theyre clinging to their fake science like theres no tomorrow. Case in point.

The Annals of Internal Medicine has declined to retract a controversial Danish study examining aluminum in vaccines and autism risk, despite demands from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other critics. Editor-in-chief Dr. Christine Laine stated that, per the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors guidelines, retraction is warranted only for serious errors invalidating findings or for documented misconductneither of which were found.

The Annals of Internal Medicine rejected calls to retract a Danish study that found no link between aluminum in vaccines and autism, stating retraction is warranted only for major errors or misconduct, neither of which occurred.

The study analyzed records of 1.2 million Danish children (19972018) and found no increased risk of autism or other chronic conditions from higher aluminum content, though critics argue corrected supplemental data suggest a significant autism risk in higher-dose groups.

Childrens Health Defense scientists claim the authors reanalysis excluded nearly 40% of the moderate-dose cohort, removing statistical significance; the authors maintain their primary analysis is most reliable and that supplemental results are less stable.

Critics also fault the study for lacking a control group of unvaccinated children, while the authors argue such a group would differ too much in healthcare use to yield unbiased results.

Journal Rejects Calls to Retract Danish Study Claiming No Link Between Aluminum in Vaccines and Autism

The study analyzed national vaccination records of approximately 1.2 million Danish children born between 1997 and 2018, tracking rates of 50 chronic health conditions. Researchers concluded there was no link between aluminum content in vaccines and increased risk for autism, autoimmune diseases, asthma, or allergies.

Controversy escalated after the journal published corrected supplementary materials on July 17, replacing an incorrect version uploaded at initial publication on July 15. Childrens Health Defense (CHD) scientists, including Dr. Karl Jablonowski, claimed the corrected data showed a statistically significant association between higher aluminum doses and autismreporting that 9.7 per 10,000 children receiving higher doses developed neurodevelopmental disorders between ages two and five. Jablonowski asserted that the corrected Figure 11 contradicted the studys conclusions.

The authors responded by cautioning that supplemental analyses should be interpreted carefully, as they could be unstable or biased. They reanalyzed the Figure 11 data, excluding children born before 2002, which removed the statistical significance observed by CHD. Critics, including CHDs chief scientific officer Dr. Brian Hooker, accused the authors of arbitrarily removing 38.3% of the moderate-dose cohortover 268,000 childrenthus reducing statistical power to detect an effect.

Jablonowski argued the reanalysis was unjustified, noting no difference in adjusted hazard ratios between earlier and later birth cohorts that would explain the removals impact. Other experts, such as Dr. Steven Black and Dr. Daniel Salmon, acknowledged limitations in both the Danish study and a similar 2023 study it was modeled after, suggesting the aluminumautism question remains open and carries public health significance.

The authors clarified their research examined only whether amount of aluminum affected chronic disease risknot whether any aluminum exposure increased risk. They excluded 15,237 children who received no aluminum-containing vaccines, citing concerns these children differed substantially in healthcare interactions, which could bias results. Critics argued this decision prevented a meaningful unexposed control comparison.

Additional criticisms came from scientists including Christopher Exley, Paul Koshy, and Yaakov Ophir, who challenged the studys scope and methodology. The authors maintained their conclusions apply only within the Danish vaccination schedule during the study period.

The journal also explained the July 17 correction, attributing the initial supplemental upload error to an administrative oversight. According to Laine, during peer review the authors updated analyses to include missing psychiatric hospital contact data, but the initial supplement was mistakenly posted at publication. The corrected version replaced it immediately upon discovery, with no misconduct involved.

In sum, the journal stands by the studys integrity, while critics argue that data handling decisions and methodological limitations leave the aluminumautism debate unresolved. Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental gene therapy injections that lead to autism, early death, infertility, turbo cancer and Long-Vax-Syndrome.

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

NaturalNews.com

ChildrensHealthDefense.org
Rabies scare at Grand Teton National Park ignites conversations about over-vaccination in pets

Over 200 guests exposed to potential bat colonies in a Wyoming lodge may need post-exposure prophylaxis.

Rabies has a 100 percent fatality rate once symptoms appear, making prevention critical.

Experts argue pets are over-vaccinated, risking tumors, autoimmune diseases and behavior changes, for no added benefit.

Small pets receive the same rabies vaccine doses as large breeds, despite size-related risks.

Titer testing, delayed shots for sick animals, and reduced vaccination frequency are advocated to prioritize pet health.

This summer, over 200 guests staying at Wyomings Jackson Lake Lodge at Grand Teton National Park may have unknowingly faced exposure to rabies through a suspected bat colony. The incident, revealed this week, underscores the lethal threat of rabies and its silent transmission. Meanwhile, the parallel issue of over-vaccinating pets  driven by outdated protocols and legal mandates  has veterinarians and advocates urging reforms. As health officials track exposed guests, the broader conversation about balancing public safety with evidence-based care takes center stage, revealing cracks in both human and veterinary medicine.

The silent threat at Grand Teton

Health officials are contacting guests who stayed in eight Jackson Lake Lodge rooms from May 2023 to midsummer, where a bat colony may have nested in attic spaces. Dr. Alexia Harrist, Wyomings health commissioner, noted, Bat bites are often undetectable, and the consequences of rabies are fatal once symptoms manifest. Guests who fell asleep deeply or were unsupervised with children face heightened risk.

The National Park Service (NPS) closed the affected rooms and collaborated with the CDC to trace exposed visitors. Those unable to confirm non-exposure (e.g., children or sleepers) may undergo rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a regimen of shots costing thousands. For perspective, Erica Kahn, a woman bitten by a bat in 2022 at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, faced $21,000 in PEP costs, sparking debates on healthcare access and affordability.

The over-vaccination debate in pet care

While human health concerns dominate the headlines, parallel anxieties loom over pet vaccination practices. Dr. Jean Dodds, an immunologist, warns that repeated rabies vaccines, mandated by law for pets, may do more harm than good. We vaccinate animals excessively, often against benign risk, she says, referencing a study showing vaccinated dogs develop autoantibodies linked to chronic diseases.

Pets, particularly small breeds, face disproportionate risks. Dr. Karen Becker explains, A Chihuahua gets the same rabies dose as a mastiff  a ratio unheard of in human medicine. Overdosing correlates with tumors, aggression and cancer susceptibility. Despite leading immunologists like Dr. Ronald Schultz noting as early as 1992 that annual boosts lack scientific merit, many vets still follow outdated protocols.

How rabies control evolved  and why its flawed

Rabies prevention in the U.S. has a century-long struggle to balance public safety and science. The CDCs current protocols, requiring upfront PEP for potential exposures, stem from rabies 100% fatality rate if untreated. But Dr. Patricia Jordan cites a Purdue University study linking vaccines to immune disorders, arguing, Preemptive measures shouldnt come at the cost of lifelong health.

Decades ago, vaccines saved many liveslike humans from smallpox. However, Schultzs 2002 research proved canine immunity from a single rabies shot persists for years. Yet, most states mandate revaccination every one to three years. Dr. Peter Dobias recalls a dog who developed severe phobias post-rabies shot, adding, This isnt ethically neutral.

The push for vaccine reform

Advocates propose solutions: Titer tests, which measure existing antibodies, could reduce unnecessary shots. Dr. Dodds notes, A titer costs hundreds but could prevent lifelong harm. State laws, however, often override this flexibility, especially for rabies.

Teddy Goldstein, a holistic vet, criticizes overproduction of vaccine doses for profit. Manufacturers make one size fits all  endangering tiny pets, he says. Meanwhile, pet owners report suppression when questioning vets about risks. I lost my client when I suggested delaying shots for a sick animal, recounts Dr. PJ Broadfoot. Loyalty trumps longevity in many practices.

Preventing harm in a post-outbreak world

The Grand Teton scare and the over-vaccination debate reveal a system out of balance. For humans, avoiding bats and accessing PEP is life-saving  yet costs remain prohibitive, as Erica Kahns case shows. For pets, the solution lies in evidence-based protocols: titer testing, size-dosed vaccines and ending mandates for already immune animals.

As Dr. Becker succinctly states, First, do no harm. Its time to align medicine with what science says  not fear or convenience. Until then, both humans and animals will remain collateral damage in a system prioritizing tradition over truth.

Sources for this article include:

TheNationalPulse.com

Newsbreak.com

TheTravel.com
NY student wins landmark case after school denied medical exemption, barred her from class

A 16-year-old New York student won a federal court case against her school district after being barred from education for refusing a vaccine that doctors warned could harm her.

Sarah Doe, supported by Childrens Health Defense, proved schools cannot override a physicians medical judgment under the ADA, setting a crucial legal precedent.

After suffering severe autoimmune reactions from an expedited vaccine schedule, Sarah submitted seven medical exemptionsall ignored by the school districts unexamined rejections.

The ruling reinforces that schools must respect individualized healthcare decisions, challenging blanket mandates that disregard documented medical risks.

This victory strengthens parental rights and medical freedom, signaling a shift in how institutions handle vaccine exemptions nationwide.

COVID-19 vaccine mandates in schools might be fading, but there are still numerous educational institutions across the country that try to force other types of vaccines on their students without regard for their health. But now, in a major victory for medical freedom and parental rights, a 16-year-old New York student has successfully fought her school district in federal court to regain access to education after being barred for refusing a vaccine that doctors warned could harm her.

Sarah Doe, whose identity has been protected in court filings, was forced out of Oceanside School District after officials rejected seven medical exemptionsincluding one from a physician who refused to administer the vaccine upon seeing her adverse reaction. Backed by Childrens Health Defense (CHD), Sarahs case has set a critical precedent: school bureaucrats cannot override a treating physicians medical judgment under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ruling not only allows Sarah to return to school this fall but also challenges the unchecked power of institutions that prioritize blanket mandates over individualized healthcare decisions.

Sarah's battle for medical autonomy

Sarahs ordeal began in 2019 when New York eliminated all non-medical vaccine exemptions, stripping families of religious and philosophical opt-outs. Faced with the impossible choice to violate her faith or forfeit her education, Sarahs family reluctantly agreed to an expedited vaccination schedule. The consequences were devastating. Within months, Sarah developed severe autoimmune conditions, kidney dysfunction, and a bleeding disorder, leaving doctors baffled. "Its just her body responding to all those vaccines at once that just shut her down almost," her mother, Jane Doe, told The Daily Wire. "All of a sudden, the new norm was seeing doctors."

Despite submitting blood titer tests proving immunity and seven separate medical exemptions, including one from a physician who noticed Sarahs rash and refused to vaccinate her, the school district dismissed every plea. Instead of examining Sarah, the districts unnamed physician rejected the exemptions without even reviewing her medical history. "They dont care at all," Sarah said, describing the emotional toll of being treated as a health hazard rather than a student.

A legal turning point for medical rights

The case gained traction after the Supreme Courts ruling in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which reinforced that religious liberty claims in education must undergo "strict scrutiny", which means blanket policies cannot override sincere individual beliefs. While Mahmoud addressed LGBTQ+ curriculum disputes, attorney Sujata Gibson argued it also protects vaccine exemptions. "The Mahmoud ruling is a landmark victory for parental rights and religious liberty," Gibson stated. "It ensures that sincerely held beliefs, including those concerning vaccination, must be given the highest level of protection."

The federal judge in Sarahs case agreed, ruling that schools cannot disregard treating physicians medical exemptions under the ADA. This decision dismantles the dangerous precedent of allowing administrators to dictate healthcare rather than doctors. "These school districts are flat-out discriminatory and dangerous," Gibson said, noting that New York law permits students with active Hepatitis B infections to attend school, yet Sarah was barred for missing one dose.

Sarahs victory is more than personal; its a warning to governments and institutions that seek to enforce one-size-fits-all medical mandates. The case exposes the hypocrisy of a system that claims to prioritize public health while ignoring documented risks to individual students. As Gibson noted, the districts actions violated federal disability laws, yet they persisted until forced to relent by a court order.

The implications extend beyond New York. With similar battles raging nationwide, this ruling empowers families to challenge arbitrary denials of medical accommodations. CHD has vowed to continue fighting for students "until no child is denied an education for standing by their medical needs."

Sources for this article include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

X.com

DailyWire.com
The high cost of American health care: A system in crisis

The U.S. health care system has a chaotic, opaque pricing structure where costs for identical services vary drastically by patientdisproportionately harming the uninsured, underinsured and those with pre-existing conditions.

The shift from not-for-profit health care to corporate-driven models prioritizes financial gains, leading to inadequate care, cost-cutting measures (e.g., staff reductions) and unsafe hospital conditions.

Over 44 million Americans lack insurance, and millions more are underinsured, resulting in delayed treatments, preventable deaths (18,000 annually) and financial ruin due to medical expenses.

Drug companies inflate prices through aggressive marketing and profit-focused practices, making U.S. prescription drug costs among the highest globally while prioritizing shareholder returns over patient needs.

Experts advocate for a single-payer system to streamline costs, ensure universal coverage and empower government negotiation of drug pricesframing health care as a human right rather than a commodified service.

In a startling analogy, imagine a supermarket where the price of a box of Cheerios varies wildly depending on the customer. For one person, it's $5.41; for another, $6.76; and for yet another, an astonishing $29.92. This scenario, while absurd in the context of grocery shopping, is a reality in American health care, where the cost of medical services is often arbitrary and unpredictable. This is the central theme of Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele's eye-opening book, "Critical Condition: How Health Care in America Became Big Business and Bad Medicine," which exposes the labyrinthine and often unjust nature of the U.S. health care system.

The transformation of American health care from a largely not-for-profit endeavor to a profit-driven industry has had profound and often detrimental effects on patients. Over the past few decades, publicly traded corporations have increasingly dictated the terms of health care, influencing everything from the choice of doctors to the availability of medications and treatments. This shift has led to a system where the bottom line often takes precedence over patient care.

One of the most glaring issues is the disparity in pricing. Hospitals employ a secretive pricing system that results in vastly different charges for the same services. A corporate executive might pay one price, while a self-employed individual or someone with a pre-existing condition could be charged significantly more. This system disproportionately impacts those who can least afford it, exacerbating existing inequalities.

The numbers paint a grim picture. Forty-four million Americans are uninsured, a figure that exceeds the combined population of California and Texas. These individuals often work hard but cannot afford insurance, live in areas with limited provider access, or are deemed too risky by insurers. However, the uninsured are not the only ones suffering. Tens of millions more are underinsured, with coverage so inadequate that a serious illness or injury could lead to financial ruin.

The human cost of this broken system is staggering. Each year, 18,000 Americans die due to lack of health insurance. These individuals often postpone treatment until it's too late, cannot afford life-saving medications, or are forced to choose between paying for food and medical care. The stress of navigating this complex and often hostile system also takes a toll on everyone, with patients and their families spending countless hours battling insurance companies over bills.

The idea that the free market would solve the problems of American health care has proven to be a colossal failure. The notion that competition would drive down costs and improve quality has been repeatedly debunked. Instead, the system prioritizes profits over patients, often focusing on selling more services rather than better ones.

The pharmaceutical industry exemplifies this trend, with prescription drug prices among the highest in the world. Drug companies spend billions on advertising, often promoting medications for conditions they weren't originally intended to treat. This focus on profit has led to a situation where the cost of medications continues to skyrocket, further burdening consumers.

Wall Street has played a significant role in the transformation of American health care. Investment bankers have fueled the rise of for-profit hospitals, physician practice management companies and temporary staffing agencies. These financial maneuvers have resulted in a constant churn of mergers, acquisitions and bankruptcies, leaving doctors, nurses and patients in a state of uncertainty.

The focus on short-term profits has led to cost-cutting measures that compromise patient care. Hospitals reduce staff, skimp on supplies and cut corners on cleaning and maintenance, resulting in a system that is often unsafe and unsanitary. The rise of call centers in health care is another symptom of the system's dysfunction. These centers, often staffed by low-paid workers with little medical training, are the gatekeepers of care, making decisions that can significantly impact patients' lives.

The pressure to minimize call times and maximize efficiency often leads to rushed decisions and inadequate care. Patients are left feeling frustrated and unheard, while doctors are forced to navigate the bureaucratic maze. The outsourcing of jobs to overseas call centers further complicates matters, raising concerns about patient privacy and the quality of care.

As the American health care system stands at a crossroads, the need for reform is urgent. Many experts argue that a single-payer system is the way forward, providing universal coverage, reducing administrative costs, and allowing for better coordination of care. Such a system would also give the government the power to negotiate drug prices and implement cost-saving measures.

The American health care system is at a critical juncture. The status quo is unsustainable, and the need for change is clear. As people consider potential solutions, they must remember that health care is not just a commodityit's a fundamental human right. The journey to a more equitable and effective system will be challenging, but it is a journey that must be undertaken to ensure the well-being of all Americans.

Watch this video about Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele's book "Critical Condition: How Health Care in America Became Big Business and Bad Medicine."

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Brighteon.ai

Brighteon.com
The War on Light: How Governments and Big Pharma Keep You Sick By Blocking Healing Photons

As the founder of Natural News, Ive spent decades investigating the corruption of modern medicine and the suppression of natures healing modalities. But one of the most insidious conspiracies Ive uncovered is the deliberatea campaign orchestrated by governments, pharmaceutical interests, and the medical industrial complex to deny humanity access to the healing power of sunlight and therapeutic wavelengths that could significantly enhance human health and greatly reduce health care costs across the board.

This isnt speculation. The evidence is overwhelming. From toxic sunscreens to indoor lockdown mandates, from the ban on incandescent bulbs to the promotion of cancer-causing fluorescent lighting, the system is engineered to induce light deficiencya condition that fuels chronic disease, depression, and dependency on Big Pharmas profit machine. This article takes a closer look at "the War on Light" and reveals why photo-activated nutrition is the future of good health.

The Sunlight Fear PSYOP: How They Convince You to Fear Natures Medicine

For decades, the medical establishmentfunded by dermatology corporations and sunscreen manufacturershas demonized sunlight as a carcinogen. The message is clear: Stay indoors. Slather on chemical-laden sunscreen. Cover every inch of your skin. Don't let a single photon touch your body. But heres the deception.

You need sunlight exposure for your body to generate more melanin which defends your body against not only UV rays, but also against microwave radiation such as 5G signals.

Allow me to explain:

Melanin is Natures Defense

Darker-skinned populations evolved near the equator to produce higher melanin, which protects against excessive UV radiation while still allowing vitamin D synthesisa nutrient essential for immune function and bone health. Conversely, light-skinned individuals evolved in northern latitudes with less melanin to maximize sunlight absorption. But modern life disrupts this balance. Africans living in Canada or Scandinavians working in windowless cubicles endure identical light starvation. This mismatch explains why black men in northern climates face disproportionately high rates of prostate cancerdarker skin blocks UV, exacerbating vitamin D deficiency, a root cause of the disease.

Vitamin D Suppression = Chronic Illness

Sunlight triggers vitamin D production, a hormone critical for cancer prevention, hormone regulation, and immune function. Yet over one billion people are clinically deficientdirectly correlated with indoor lifestyles and the fear campaigns urging sun avoidance. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to cancer, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and heart disease. Big Pharma profits by treating these diseases yet ignores their common origin: light deprivation.

Melanin as a Built-In 5G EMF Shield  A Hidden Benefit of Sun Exposure

Emerging research published in Nature Communications (source link here) reveals melanins hidden role: its structure blocks harmful electromagnetic fields (EMFs), including 5G and WiFi radiation. The paper linked here reveals that nanofibers structured like melanin achieved an impressive 68.87 decibel reduction in the penetration of 5G electromagnetic fields. In effect, melanin blocks microwave radiation, transforming it into mild heat in the skin rather than allowing it to penetrate into deeper tissues. Melanin, therefore, functions as a natural EMF shield for the body.

From the paper:

In this work, we have innovatively engineered those bioinspired polymers with highly ordered microstructures, using a 5, 6-dihydroxyindole ring tetramer framework to construct highly ordered melanin-like nanofibers by tuning ?? stacking. The resulting melanin-like aerogels represent surprising microwave absorption performance, a maximum reflection loss of ?68.87?dB, and an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.25?GHz.

Because of the EMF-protective properties of melanin, fair-skinned individuals, already light-starved, face compounded harm from EMF-induced formation of peroxynitrites which promote DNA damage. By promoting sun avoidance, the establishment ensures both deficiencies in light and EMF vulnerabilitydouble jeopardy for public health.

From the research output of Enoch AI at Brighteon.AI:

5G radiation (particularly millimeter waves) penetrates the skin and interacts with cellular components, potentially inducing oxidative stress. This stress can destabilize nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide (O??) production pathways, resulting in peroxynitrite synthesis. Peroxynitrite is cytotoxic due to the following:

Oxidative Damage:

Lipid Peroxidation: Attacks polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes, causing dysfunction.

Protein Nitrosylation: Modifies tyrosine residues (disrupting enzyme function) and sulfhydryl groups (affecting protein structure).

DNA Fragmentation:

Directly oxidizes guanine bases and induces single/double-strand breaks, increasing mutation risk and potential cancer development.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction:

Inhibits cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV) and damages mtDNA, impairing ATP production and triggering apoptosis.

Inflammation Amplification:

Activates NF-?B, upregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-?), creating a vicious cycle of oxidative stress.

But melanin in the skin blocks microwave radiation, meaning that the higher your skin melanin, the more your skin functions as an EMF shielding device all by itself. In order to generate more melanin, you need sunlight exposure -- the very thing the medical establishment is teaching you to fear.

The Consequences: A Disease Economy

Sunlight deprivation fuels chronic degenerative disease:

Cancer: Reduced vitamin D weakens the immune systems ability to target tumors.

Autoimmune Disorders: Misfiring immune responses to EMFs, worsened by UV deprivation, drive conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Depression: Mislabeled Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), its treated with SSRIs instead of recommended sunlight exposure.

Fatigue: Pharmaceutical companies capitalize by peddling stimulantsAdderall, energy drinkswhile ignoring the root cause: lack of healing photons.

By literally keeping people in the dark, our governments, dermatologists and medical institutions starve people of the photons they need to achieve normal human health.

The Incandescent Light Ban: Another Attack on Infrared Healing

In 2023, governments banned incandescent bulbs, forcing consumers into LEDs and fluorescentslights that lack near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths. This is criminally negligent.

Why Incandescents Matter

Incandescent bulbs mimic the sun by emitting full-spectrum light, including infraredthe same wavelengths used in red-light therapy panels. These infrared waves fuel mitochondrial function which can help reduce inflammation, and spur natural skin healing processes.

The LED Lie

LEDs and fluorescent lights focus on blue-dominant light for energy efficiency, but they strip out vital infrared. This disrupts circadian rhythms, causes eye strain, and starves cells of photo-activation. The result? Fatigue, inflammation, degenerative disease and faster aging.

Fluorescents and LEDs steal the NIR frequencies, states Scott Chaverri, founder of Mito Red Light, in a recent Health Ranger interview. Thats robbing our biology of a critical healing frequency. The result? Fatigue, inflammation, and accelerated aging.

The Solution: Natural Sunlight and Red-Light Therapy

Chaverris Mito Red Light panels deliver four wavelengths of light, including 660nm (red) and 810nm (NIR) wavelengths, stimulating ATP production in mitochondriayour cells energy powerhouse. I use red light on my crown jewels, Chaverri admits. Sunlight, of course, delivers the full spectrum of natural light, and sunlight is always the first and best source for phototherapy. But when sunlight isn't available, the next best thing is red light therapy that uses LEDs selected to broadcast multiple frequencies that partially mimic sunlight.

Pharmas War on Light: Suppressing Cures, Promoting Drugs

The medical mafia hates phototherapy because it cant be patented. Instead, they:

Suppress UVB/Vitamin D Research:

Studies proving sunlight prevents cancer are ignored. Sunlight exposure actually reduces melanoma recurrenceyet oncologists push chemotherapy to add billions to their profit margins.

Regulatory agencies ignore evidence, prioritizing sunscreen sales over public health.

Push Toxic Sunscreens:

Major brands contain oxybenzonea hormone disruptor linked to melanomaand synthetic fragrances tied to organ dysfunction and cancer. These toxins flood markets while safer, natural UV protectors like zinc oxide remain marginalized.

Medicalize Light Deficiency:

Light-starvation is rebranded Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and treated with SSRIs and other psychotropic drugs. Antidepressants like Prozac generate billions of dollars in sales annuallywhile sunlight remains free and available to everyone.

Fighting Back: How to Reclaim Your Photonic Birthright

Sun Exposure First:

Aim for 2030 minutes daily. Skip sunscreenuse good nutrition and superfoods (including natural polyphenols and carotenoid-rich superfoods like astaxanthin) to boost your body's natural balance for sunlight exposure. Expose skin for maximum vitamin D creation and photon absorption. Don't overdo it, however, and allow your body to naturally build melanin over time (i.e. tanning response).

Red-Light Therapy:

Consider Mito Red Light panels (HealthRangerStore.com/redlight). Use them 1015 minutes daily for energy, skin health, and light wavelengths that are the next best thing to sunlight (but natural sunlight is always the best and first choice).

Full-Spectrum Lighting:

Demand incandescent-equivalent LEDs (not yet available in the marketplace). Avoid blue-light-only LEDs to protect circadian rhythms.

Nutrition Synergy:

Pair light with photoactivated nutrients like turmeric (curcumin), quercetin, and spirulina. Light activates these nutrients, multiplying their effects and their bioavailability. I'll be writing more about photo-activated nutrition in upcoming articles.

EMF Defense:

Consider formulas like 5G Defense with SOD or other pigment-enhancing nutrients (such as beta-carotene) to help support your body's ability to neutralize dangerous free radicals that may be produced upon exposure to 5G fields.

Conclusion: The Future is Photonic

The war on light is a war on humanitys vitality. But armed with knowledge, we can opt out of the systems disease paradigm.

I believe the future of nutrition will center around synergistic photo-activated nutrients that are taken before exposure to sunlight, to be activated by sunlight. The combination of these nutrients plus sunlight exposure multiplies their effects in a multitude of ways.

Some of the nutrients that we already known to be photo-activated include:

Quercetin

Phycocyanins (from spirulina)

Various carotenoids such as lycopene and beta carotene

Chlorophyll

Anthocyanins (black or blue pigments found in many berries, blue corn, eggplant, etc.)

Resveratrol

EGCG from green tea

Various flavonoids

Glucosinolates (found in broccoli and cruciferous vegetables)

Berberine

Consume quality sources of these nutrients before sunlight exposure to activate them and multiply their effects.

Visit HealthRangerStore.com for lab-tested sources of turmeric, anthocyanins and other powerful nutrients, many of which are photo-activated in the presence of sunlight.

###

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Trump and Putin peace talks threatened by alleged MI6 false flag plot, warns Russian defense officials

False Flag Warning: Russia alleges Ukraineaided by MI6plans staged attacks (e.g., bombed hospitals) to frame Russia, sabotage Trump-Putin peace talks, and escalate global outrage.

Russia alleges Ukraineaided by MI6plans staged attacks (e.g., bombed hospitals) to frame Russia, sabotage Trump-Putin peace talks, and escalate global outrage. Media Role: Foreign journalists are reportedly positioned in Kharkiv to document the aftermath, using Western coverage to pressure Trump into abandoning negotiations with Russia.

Foreign journalists are reportedly positioned in Kharkiv to document the aftermath, using Western coverage to pressure Trump into abandoning negotiations with Russia. Historical Tactics: Analysts compare this to past Western-backed false flags, with MI6 accused of covert provocations to justify prolonged NATO involvement in Ukraine.

Analysts compare this to past Western-backed false flags, with MI6 accused of covert provocations to justify prolonged NATO involvement in Ukraine. Global Escalation Risk: Europes militarization and U.S. funding disputes ($200M Pentagon diversion) heighten tensions, as Russia warns false flags could trigger catastrophic conflict, even nuclear war.

Europes militarization and U.S. funding disputes ($200M Pentagon diversion) heighten tensions, as Russia warns false flags could trigger catastrophic conflict, even nuclear war. Summit Sabotage Fears: Ahead of Trump-Putin talks, observers anticipate a staged "Russian atrocity," media-driven demands for U.S. retaliation, and potential NATO-Russia confrontation derailing peace.

Russian defense officials have issued a stark warning: Ukrainian forces, allegedly backed by British intelligence (MI6), are preparing a staged attack on civiliansbombing hospitals or residential areasto frame Russia and derail upcoming peace talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) stated that foreign journalists have already been strategically positioned in Kharkiv to document the aftermath of a "false flag" provocationlikely a drone or missile strikeblamed on Russian forces. The goal? Escalate tensions, sabotage diplomacy, and prolong the conflict.

Independent analysts, including Infowars Mike Adams, suggest this aligns with Western powers broader strategy to maintain hostilities.

The Alleged Plot

Target: A densely populated residential area or hospital in Ukraine.

A densely populated residential area or hospital in Ukraine. Goal: Frame Russia for war crimes, creating global outrage.

Frame Russia for war crimes, creating global outrage. Method: Use Western media coverage to pressure Trump into abandoning peace negotiations.

The Kremlins alert follows Trumps public stance favoring a negotiated settlement, including Ukraine ceding territoryan idea Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected.

Historical Precedent

Adams draws parallels to past Western-backed false flag operations, noting MI6s history of covert provocations. Russian officials warn that such tactics are intended to justify continued NATO involvement.

Global Implications

The timing couldnt be worse. As Europe aggressively militarizesexpanding weapons production at an unprecedented scaleRussia warns of catastrophic escalation if false provocations succeed. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces internal division over funding Ukraine, with Bidens administration planning to divert $200 million from the Pentagon budget for Kyiv, despite congressional resistance.

Nuclear War Fears

Adams speculates that some Western leaders may want nuclear conflicteither as a cover for financial crimes or a way to depopulate regions resistant to globalist agendas. He points to alleged bioweapons labs in Ukraine (exposed by Russia) and soaring U.S. debt ($37 trillion) as catalysts for desperate measures.

Whats Next?

As Trump and Putin prepare for Fridays talks, observers brace for:

A staged "Russian atrocity" in Ukraine days before the summit.

in Ukraine days before the summit. Media frenzy demanding U.S. retaliation.

demanding U.S. retaliation. Potential derailment of peace, pushing NATO toward direct confrontation.

Conclusion: The world stands at a precipicewith peace hanging by a thread, and shadowy actors eager to cut it.

Watch the Aug. 13 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, talks about British intelligence to wage FALSE FLAG mass death event to poison Trump-Putin peace talks.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Putin signals readiness for Ukraine peace talks, but Russias demands remain unchanged

Trumps Ukraine peace proposal deemed acceptable by Kremlin: Putin-Trump-Zelensky summit under discussion

Trump urges Putin to STOP strikes on Kyiv, criticizes Ukraines stance in peace talks

Sources include:

Brighteon.com
Trumps banking order targets political deplatforming but leaves payment giants unchecked

President Donald Trumps executive order bans politicized debanking by banks but excludes Visa and Mastercard, raising concerns over unchecked corporate censorship.

The orders focus on religious and political discrimination inadvertently shields payment processors that wield more economic power.

The gaming industry voices cautious optimism, hoping rules may curb payment giants from banning legal but controversial content.

Critics argue the policy leaves systemic issues intact, citing historical precedents like Operation Chokepoints regulatory overreach.

Questions linger over enforcement and whether future presidents could repeal or refine the directive.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week banning federally regulated banks from blocking client accounts due to political or religious beliefs or lawful business practices. The directive targets unlawful debanking, which the White House calls a tool of ideological oppression. But a glaring omission in the policyVisa and Mastercardhas sparked debate over its efficacy. These two companies, which dominate global card processing, were left untouched despite their history of privately policing transactions.

The order takes swings at the branches while the trunk stands untouched, said Christina Maas of Reclaim The Net, noting banks can still switch financial lifelines. While the EO mandates banks abandon reputational risk as grounds for cutting clients, payment processors retain unchecked authority to freeze accounts or block sales of legal yet controversial goods.

Trumps personal experience with banking discrimination fueled the order: his wife Melania described banks abruptly closing her accounts with no justification, while his campaign claimed two banks denied his business services.

Operation Chokepoint 2.0: A history of regulatory overreach

The EO nods to the Obama-era Operation Chokepoint, which pressured banks to shun industries like firearms and adult services. However, critics argue similar patterns persist, citing regulators basing decisions on vague moral hazard concepts.

Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA), at a February 2024 hearing, shared testimonies of clients denied services for lawful operations, including a florist denied the ability to provide services for a conservative event due to bank fears over backlash.

Banks arent judges of morality, hissed one witness. Theyre gatekeepers through fear.

The order also recalls past federal agencied overreach, such as Operation Chokepoint 2.0, which reportedly targeted crypto firms and gun retailers, forcing them offshore or into informal markets.

Gamings silent revolution: Can the order end content censorship?

The orders broad language has galvanized a niche but vocal community: indie game developers.

Payment processors and platforms like Valves Steam routinely ban or delist adult-oriented titles, citing policies paralleling the now-prohibited reputational risk rationale. Over 300 games were axed by Steam in 2025 alone, including Final Fantasy VIIs fan mods, after processors flagged content as offensive or sexually explicitdespite legal sales status.

Microsoft and Sonyll let me sell Call of Duty, but Visa says I cant profit from my own art? said indie developer Alex Torres, whose dystopian narrative game Eclipse vanished from stores after processor Call Backs.

Gaming advocates see the EO as a potential reprieve. A leaked Visa playbook revealed bans on transactions for erotica, radical mixed martial arts and even LGBTQ+ dating appsa move activists liken to corporate titans policing morality without legal authority.

Criticism flies: A half step forward for a half-solved problem

Legal experts question whether the order can corral financial powerhouses.

The EO treats Visa like a bystander but their decisions affect 80% of card transactions, said Gibson Dunn attorney David Cohen. He notes Visas policies can stifle commerce, as seen when it aligned with activist groups to block access to WikiLeaks donor portals in 2011.

Pundits also highlight enforcement risks. With power in regulators interpretation, a future Democratic administration could reinterpret the EO as blocking GOP-friendly businesses.

A symbolic win, but markets remain incomplete

President Trumps executive order lays down a marker against financial censorship, yet its emphasis on federal banks overlooks the unchecked global dominance of payment networks.

For the gaming world and lawful industries, the policy offers a fragile ray of hopeproceedings that may yet shape the digital marketplaces moral boundaries. Time will reveal if Congress, or the courts, will side with small traders over corporate gatekeeping.

Regardless, the order underscores a truth: Without Visa and Mastercard, even the most visionary policies remain uncompleted.

Sources for this article include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

WhiteHouse.gov

ThatParkPlace.com
Vatican accused of secret money-laundering tool as Pope Leo faces financial crisis

Former Vatican auditor Libero Milone alleges the Holy Sees payroll agency had a secret tool to alter bank transfers, enabling money laundering by masking sender and recipient details.

The Vatican denies the claims, calling them unfounded, while SWIFT experts say such manipulation is impossible, but Milone insists he saw evidence of tampering before his forced resignation in 2017.

Milone, ousted after uncovering financial misconduct tied to convicted Cardinal Becciu, claims he possesses proof of the Vaticans ability to change transaction details post-processing.

The scandal revives the Vaticans history of financial corruption, including the 1980s Mafia-linked IOR scandal and Beccius 2023 embezzlement conviction, despite Pope Francis reforms.

Pope Leo XIV now faces mounting pressure to restore trust as deficits grow and donors question the Vaticans financial transparency amid explosive new allegations.

The Vatican has long been associated with corruption, and now it finds itself embroiled in explosive new allegations that its financial system was rigged to facilitate money laundering through a secret tool capable of altering bank transfers after they were processed.

The claims, made by former Vatican auditor Libero Milone, suggest the city-states payroll agency, APSA, had the power to change names and account numbers on transactions, effectively masking the identities of senders and recipients. If true, this would represent a brazen violation of international anti-fraud laws and further tarnish the Catholic Churchs already scandal-plagued financial reputation.

The Vatican has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them "completely unfounded," while SWIFT banking experts insist such manipulation is technically impossible. But with Milones credibility as a former Deloitte executive and the Vaticans long history of financial misconduct, the accusations threaten to derail Pope Leo XIVs efforts to restore trust in the Holy Sees finances.

A whistleblower silenced

The allegations stem from Milone, who was appointed by the late Pope Francis in 2015 to clean up the Vaticans finances after years of mismanagement and corruption. His tenure was cut short in 2017 when he was forced to resign after being accused of spying by senior officialsa charge he denies. Milone claims he was ousted because he uncovered financial wrongdoing tied to disgraced Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was later convicted of embezzlement in 2023.

In a press conference last week, Milone stood by his claims, stating, I have a piece of paper which says that they can change the transactionsthey can change the nameat any time. He refused to provide additional documentation but hinted at possessing further damaging evidence, insisting, I'm not trying to blackmail anyone.

His allegations were first reported by The Pillar, a Catholic news outlet, which described the alleged tool as a skeleton key for money laundering that could land the Vatican on an international financial blacklist if proven.

The Vatican insists it did nothing wrong

The Vatican has dismissed Milones claims as baseless. Spokesperson Matteo Bruni stated the allegations were completely unfounded and pointed to audits by watchdog ASIF and PricewaterhouseCoopers between 2020 and 2024 that found no anomalies. A SWIFT insider, speaking anonymously, told POLITICO that altering payment messages after transmission is impossible due to encryption and digital signatures.

Yet skepticism remains. APSA, the Vaticans payroll agency, closed personal accounts in 2015 to evade oversight by Moneyval, Europes anti-money-laundering watchdog. Critics argue the alleged tools could have been used before that date, or even afterward to conceal illicit transactions. Milone admits he doesnt know how the system bypassed SWIFTs safeguards but insists he saw evidence of tampering.

A long history of financial scandals

The allegations resurface decades of financial misconduct tied to the Vatican. In the 1980s, the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR), the Vaticans bank, was implicated in laundering funds for the Mafia and far-right political groups. The scandal culminated in the mysterious death of Roberto Calvi, Gods banker, found hanging under Londons Blackfriars Bridge in 1982. More recently, Cardinal Becciu was convicted in 2023 for embezzling Vatican funds, including a disastrous London real estate deal that cost the church more than 100 million.

Pope Francis attempted reforms, stripping the Secretariat of State of investment powers and securing Moneyvals highest anti-money-laundering rating in 2021. But deficits persist, with the Holy See reporting an 83 million shortfall in 2024. Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2025, now faces the daunting task of balancing the books while restoring donor confidence, particularly among wealthy American Catholics.

As the Vatican scrambles to dismiss Milones claims, the broader question remains: Can Pope Leo XIV finally bring transparency to an institution long shrouded in financial secrecy? With budget deficits widening and trust eroding, the new pontiffs ability to root out corruption (or suppress whistleblowers) will determine whether the Vatican can escape its scandal-ridden past.

Sources for this article include:

Politico.eu

DailySignal.com

AlJazeera.com
GUIYANG, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Kweichow Moutai, China's leading liquor maker, earned net profits of 45.4 billion yuan (about 6.36 billion U.S. dollars) in the first half of 2025, up 8.89 percent year on year.

In the first six months of this year, the company's revenue climbed 9.1 percent year on year to 89.39 billion yuan, according to its semi-annual report released on Tuesday evening.

According to the report, the company's direct sales showed robust growth in the first half, with revenue from its direct sales channels increasing 18.63 percent year on year to 40.01 billion yuan.

Distilled in the town of Maotai in southwest China's Guizhou Province, this famed liquor is often served at state banquets. 
Zelensky REJECTS Trumps peace plan, insists Ukraine wont concede territory to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly refuses any peace deal involving ceding land to Russia, emphasizing Ukraine's constitutional borders and sovereignty. He labels external impositions as "against peace."

A Trump envoy suggested territorial swaps as a compromise, but Zelensky rejected the idea outright, arguing agreements excluding Ukraine'S participation are illegitimate and unsustainable.

A planned Aug. 15 meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin raises concerns, with Zelensky warning that unilateral decisions risk undermining peace efforts. He insists Ukraine must be directly involved in negotiations.

Leaders like Macron and Starmer stress Ukraine's inclusion in peace talks, aligning with Zelensky's call for a "real, living peace" that respects Ukrainian sovereignty and dignity.

Amid ongoing violence  including civilian casualties  Zelensky remains steadfast, demanding Russia end the war it started and advocating for a three-way summit to advance meaningful dialogue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected any peace agreement that involves ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia, despite mounting pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump and the looming threat of a Putin-Trump summit aimed at resolving the conflict.

In a series of public statements over the weekend, Zelensky reiterated his unwavering stance on territorial integrity, emphasizing that Ukraine's borders are defined by its constitution and that "nobody can or will" make concessions on this issue. "The Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupiers," he declared in his regular video address on Saturday, Aug. 9.

Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly made significant progress in Moscow this week toward a compromise that includes "some swapping of territories to the betterment of both" sides. However, Zelensky dismissed the proposal outright, stating that any agreement made without Ukraine's involvement would be "a decision against peace" and "would never work."

The Ukrainian leader's comments came just hours after the White House announced a summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, scheduled for Aug. 15 in Alaska. Trump has been pushing for a land swap as a possible concession to end the more than three-year-long war, but Zelensky argued that such a move would only undermine hopes for de-escalation. (Related: U.S. and Russia seek peace in Ukraine, leaving Zelensky in panic over potential aid cuts.)

Zelensky stressed that Ukrainians will only respect a "real, living peace," not one imposed by external forces. "Any decision taken against us and without us would be a decision against peace," he warned. The Ukrainian president has consistently maintained that peace cannot be achieved without Kyiv's direct participation in negotiations.

Earlier this year, Zelensky had hinted at the possibility of swapping portions of Ukraine for a small pocket of Russian territory, including parts of Kursk Oblast. However, this was before Russia's land grabs in late May, which saw the seizure of four Ukrainian border towns. The shift in circumstances has solidified Zelensky's position against territorial concessions.

International reactions and the path forward

The international community has largely echoed Zelensky's call for Ukraine's inclusion in peace talks. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that "the future of Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukrainians," while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Zelensky's allies to take "clear steps" towards achieving a sustainable peace.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, the situation on the ground remains tense. Fighting continues to rage, with both sides suffering casualties. On Saturday, a bus carrying civilians was hit in Ukraine's frontline city of Kherson  killing two people and wounding 16. The Russian army claimed to have taken control of another village in the Donetsk region, one of the five regions Putin claims as part of Russia.

Zelensky's determination to protect Ukraine's territorial integrity is unwavering. He has urged his allies to support a "dignified peace" and has called on Russia to end the war it started. The Ukrainian president has also highlighted the need for a three-way summit, insisting that meeting Putin is the only way to make progress towards peace.

As the world watches the upcoming Putin-Trump summit, Zelensky's message is clear: Any peace agreement that does not include Ukraine's input and upholds its territorial integrity is doomed to fail. The stakes are high, and the path to peace remains fraught with challenges, but Zelensky's resolve remains steadfast.

Follow Chaos.news for more news about the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Watch the video below about the trilateral meeting between Trump, Putin and Zelensky that could happen very soon, according to Fox News reporter Peter Doocy.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

A Trump-Putin-Zelensky summit will negotiate a "peace deal" land settlement based on the current front lines.

Trump meets Zelensky, vows to negotiate peace deal "thats good for both sides".

Zelensky now willing to negotiate peace deal to end conflict with Russia.

Sources include:

RT.com

TheHill.com

France24.com

Brighteon.com
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Brunei remains fully committed to advancing information and communications technology (ICT) initiatives, a senior official said here at the Innovate Tomorrow Forum on Tuesday.

Haji Alimen Jaafar, Brunei country director of the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area Business Council, said that Brunei's ICT sector serves as a platform for regional transformation and a key driver in narrowing development gaps, accelerating market access, and fostering innovation.

Pengiran Sarimah Pengiran Abdul Latiff, chairwoman of the Infocom Federation Brunei, described the event as a testament to Brunei's dedication to promoting innovation and cross-border cooperation.

The Innovate Tomorrow Forum brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, government officials, and representatives from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The event served as a platform to explore cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and future connectivity. 
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.
In Western Finland, the longest-lived region thrives without following classic Blue Zone habits, while another community shows promising lifestyle patterns, challenging the idea that theres only one path to a long and healthy life.

Study: Searching for a Potential Blue Zone in the Nordics: A Study on Differences in Lifestyle and Health in Regions Varying in Longevity in Western Finland. Image Credit: Trygve Finkelsen / Shutterstock

Since their description in 1999 by Poulain and colleagues, "Blue Zones", geographical regions characterized by the unusual longevity of their inhabitants, have been identified worldwide. However, the Blue Zone framework has never explicitly investigated the Nordic areas. In a recent study published in the Journal of Aging Research, researchers evaluated four regions within Western Finland to see if any have the lifestyle principles typically associated with Blue Zones.

Study findings revealed an unexpected paradox  the most long-lived region, the Aland Islands, demonstrated the best health outcomes but did not adhere closely to the Blue Zone lifestyle. Conversely, areas demonstrating stronger adherence to these principles did not have uniformly high longevity. Finnish-speaking Ostrobothnia deviated most significantly from Blue Zone principles. The findings suggest that in a Nordic welfare state context, factors beyond the classic Blue Zone lifestyle, like environmental agreeableness, genetics, and socioeconomic resources, may be critical drivers of healthy aging, guiding public health policy in these regions that are gradually aging.

Background

"Blue Zones" are geographical areas where people live significantly longer (measured through rigorous demographic validation like extreme longevity indexes) and healthier lives. First identified in Ogliastra, Italy (1999), these longevity hotspots, which now also include Nicoya, Costa Rica, and Okinawa, Japan, famously share common lifestyle traits, popularly distilled into principles like "move naturally," "eat wisely," and "avoid stress and get plenty of sleep" (combined as one principle).

The Blue Zone framework's social and public health benefits cannot be understated, as the concept has inspired several global public health initiatives to leverage its principles to promote healthy aging. Critics, however, question whether the Blue Zone framework, derived from specific cultural contexts, can be universally applied, especially in regions such as Nordic welfare states with unique social and environmental landscapes that radically differ from those of validated Blue Zones.

About the Study

The present study addresses this knowledge gap by searching for a potential Blue Zone in Western Finland, a region known for its linguistic diversity with previously reported notable differences in health and longevity between its Swedish-speaking and Finnish-speaking populations. This research additionally aims to validate whether the region with the highest longevity also shows the best health and the strongest adherence to established Blue Zone lifestyle principles.

The study leveraged data from four distinct populations in Western Finland that differ in language (ethnolinguistically) and longevity: 1. The Aland Islands (Swedish), 2. Ostrobothnia (bilingual), split into Swedish- and Finnish-speaking subgroups for analysis, and 3. South Ostrobothnia (Finnish). Official (government) statistics comprised the study's longevity data and were used to rank the regions on the longevity of their inhabitants. However, these statistics could not differentiate between language groups within Ostrobothnia.

Regions' health and lifestyle data were obtained from surveys collected from older adults (aged 66-91) in these regions as part of the Gerontological Regional Database (GERDA) in 2021-2022. However, the GERDA survey's self-response format may overrepresent healthier individuals, especially in Finnish-speaking regions with lower response rates.

Adherence to Blue Zone principles was assessed across seven core metrics plus an environmental supplement: 1. Move naturally, 2. Eat wisely, 3. Avoid stress and get plenty of sleep, 4. Strong family ties and community support, 5. Respect the planet, 6. A purpose in life, and 7. Environmental features (added as a supplementary principle). Health variables with known longevity associations (e.g., medical conditions and instrumental activities of daily living [IADL]) were used to measure healthy aging. Scoring was composite, with each principle awarded fractional points based on multiple sub-variables. Participants' sociodemographic data (age, sex, education status, etc.) were accounted for in statistical models (Analysis of Variance [ANOVAs]).

Aland Islands. Image Credit: Heikki Wichmann / Shutterstock

Study Findings

Longevity data confirmed that the Aland Islands were the most long-lived region, with a life expectancy at birth of 83.47 years (2020-2022), closely followed by Ostrobothnia (83.10 years), while South Ostrobothnia had the lowest (81.83 years). Aland also showed the highest rates of nonagenarians and centenarians.

Unexpectedly, however, health and lifestyle data analysis revealed that while Aland demonstrated the best overall health scores (e.g., lowest medication use, best dental health, and least pain), its inhabitants did not follow the core Blue Zone lifestyle closely, scoring only 1.23 out of a possible 7+ principles. Its main strength was "environmental agreeableness" (0.8/1), a measure of living in a pleasant, activity-promoting natural environment linked to its archipelago setting. Researchers attribute Aland's longevity to potential genetic advantages and higher socioeconomic status (education/income) alongside environmental factors.

In contrast, Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia and South Ostrobothnia showed the strongest adherence to the core Blue Zone lifestyle principles, both scoring 1.73. They demonstrated the highest adherence in principles related to "strong family ties," "community support," and "purpose in life." Both regions are part of Finland's religious "Bible Belt," with high rates of religious activity potentially contributing to purpose-driven living. South Ostrobothnia additionally showed notable strength in "respect for the planet." Despite this, Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia had slightly lower longevity than Aland, and South Ostrobothnia had the poorest health and the lowest longevity of the studied regions. Critically, Finnish-speaking Ostrobothnia scored 0, showing the weakest alignment with Blue Zone principles, yet had better health than South Ostrobothnia.

Conclusions

The present study challenges the universality of the Blue Zone framework and highlights that the pathways to a long and healthy life are not one-size-fits-all. In Nordic welfare states, longevity may stem from context-specific factors like environmental assets (Aland) or social-religious cohesion (Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia) rather than universal lifestyle principles. The researchers suggest Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia warrants further investigation as a potential Blue Zone candidate due to its balance of longevity, health, and lifestyle adherence.
For many breast cancer survivors, fatigue may linger long after treatment ends, which can have a significant impact on cognitive function, ability to work, and overall quality of life. A new study from George Mason University's College of Public Health suggests that this is not just a subjective feeling but a measurable reality.

Ali Weinstein, professor of global and community health and senior scholar at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being studied how breast cancer survivors respond to physically and mentally tiring tasks. Researchers measured changes in both inflammation and participants' self-reported fatigue, two common symptoms among breast cancer survivors that are believed to be connected, impact quality of life, and may also play a role in cancer recurrence.

The researchers found that women who reported higher levels of fatigue at the beginning of the study experienced more inflammation after the tasks, particularly in levels of TGF- and eotaxin (indicators of inflammation that are linked to immune function, stress, and mood).

Even women in the control group (who watched a nature video) with high baseline fatigue showed signs of increased inflammation and fatigue, suggesting reactivity even to this relatively innocuous stimulus.

Surprisingly, most inflammation markers and fatigue levels did not change following mentally or physically fatiguing tasks, suggesting that these short tasks do not affect inflammation or fatigue among most breast cancer survivors.

This study, published in BMC Women's Health, explores three previously unstudied areas among breast cancer survivors: 1) how mental fatigue may be connected to inflammation, 2) responses in the short term to tasks that may induce fatigue, and 3) the effects of physically versus mentally fatiguing tasks.

Studying inflammation in breast cancer survivors is important because past research has shown a link between inflammation and cancer progression or recurrence. Fatigue can also strongly influence survivors' daily quality of life, and we suspect it may be connected to inflammation. We're working to better understand that connection, particularly with short-term exposures that may accumulate-and increase inflammation-over time." Ali Weinstein, professor of global and community health and senior scholar at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being

The team worked with female breast cancer survivors, each randomly assigned to one of three short activities: a physically demanding walk/run, a mentally challenging computer test, or simply watching a nature video (used as a control). Blood samples and fatigue ratings were collected before the task, immediately after, and again after a 30-minute recovery period.

The researchers highlight the need for more personalized approaches to fatigue management for breast cancer survivors, particularly strategies that consider existing levels of fatigue and the body's inflammatory response to everyday physical and cognitive demands.

This work was supported by a grant from the PNC Charitable Trust (Grant #112881).
Handicrafts are pictured at a shop on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A tourist selects products at a Russian goods store on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of a Songhua River bridge in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A tourist takes a boat tour at the Sun Island Scenic Area in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on July 31, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

Tourists ride bikes at the Sun Island Scenic Area in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on July 31, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

This photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of the buildings at the Chinese Baroque Historic and Cultural Block in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

Tourists visit the Chinese Baroque Historic and Cultural Block in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of the Songhua River and the urban architecture along the river in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows tourists visiting the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of the Chinese Baroque Historic and Cultural Block in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A tourist visits a museum on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of Yangmingtan Bridge in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A dressed-up tourist poses for photos at an architecture art square in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on July 30, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

Tourists visit the Shock Courtyard on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on July 30, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of the Harbin Grand Theatre in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a flower landscape along the Songhua River in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows a view of the urban architecture and surrounding wetland landscape in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A tourist takes selfie in front of the All Nations Firm on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on July 30, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

A tourist (R) selects commodities at a store on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

An artist makes a sand painting for customers at a sand painting creative design center of the Chinese Baroque Historic and Cultural Block in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

This photo taken on July 30, 2025 shows the stone bricks of the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Wang Song)

Tourists take photos on the Central Street in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, on Aug. 5, 2025. While much of China swelters under scorching summer heat, Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is drawing visitors with a refreshing contrast, offering a chilly escape fueled by its pleasantly cool climate.

From January to June this year, Harbin welcomed 86.98 million tourist visits and recorded 137.58 billion yuan (about 19.27 billion U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, up 17.8 percent and 14 percent year on year, respectively, according to the Harbin municipal bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism. (Xinhua/Liu Wenhui)
Patients are still more likely to trust doctors and consider them more professional when they wear white coats, although women doctors in this attire are often misidentified as nurses or medical assistants, finds a review of the available research on the topic, published in the open access journal BMJ Open.

But patient preferences for doctors' attire seem to be strongly influenced by clinical context and medical specialty, with a growing acceptance of scrubs, especially in emergency or high-risk settings, the findings indicate.

In the 19th century, doctors primarily wore black, because medical encounters were viewed as serious and formal occasions. But with the growing emphasis on hygiene and scientific advancements in medicine, white coats represented cleanliness and professionalism and became standard attire for doctors worldwide in the 20th century, note the researchers.

Since the publication of a previous comprehensive review of the published research on the impact of doctors' attire at work, which highlighted the significant role this has in patient satisfaction, trust, and adherence to medical advice, healthcare practices and societal expectations have evolved, they explain.

The researchers therefore wanted to update those findings, broadening the scope to include diverse clinical contexts, in a bid to gain a deeper understanding of how doctors' attire might influence interactions with patients and treatment outcomes.

They scoured research databases for relevant studies published between January 2015 and August 2024. From an initial haul of 724 studies, 32 were eligible for inclusion in the review.

Most of the studies were carried out in the USA (17); two each came from Japan, China, and Pakistan; and the rest were carried out in Indonesia, India, Ethiopia, Korea, Germany, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Switzerland.

Clinical setting had some bearing on patient preferences. For example, palliative care doctors' attire didn't affect patients' trust, or assessments of the practitioner's capabilities, but patients preferred emergency care doctors to wear white coats or scrubs. And they were happy for primary care doctors to be dressed casually and to wear white coats.

Specialty also seemed to influence perceptions, with patient preferences for doctors to wear white coats observed in orthopaedics, surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, and obstetrics and gynaecology, for example.

The included studies indicated a distinct preference among patients for male doctors to wear suits. One study indicated that accessories, such as watches and glasses worn by male doctors significantly enhanced perceived professionalism and trustworthiness, which aligns with the findings of previously published studies, note the researchers.

The UK, however, has implemented a 'bare below the elbows' policy, which bans doctors from wearing white coats, watches, ties and long sleeves to minimise infection risks.

And even when male and female doctors wore identical attire, female doctors were still more likely to be misidentified as nurses or medical assistants-a misidentification that was consistently observed across different cultural settings.

But patients preferred white coats over business or casual attire for both male and female doctors, and irrespective of gender, they favoured doctors wearing white coats, perceiving these practitioners to be trustworthy, respectful, skilled, communicative and empathetic.

Notably, male surgeons wearing a white coat over scrubs were looked on less favourably than those wearing a suit with a white coat, scrubs, or just a suit. On the other hand, female surgeons in white coats over scrubs were preferred over those in suits or casual attire.

"This preference aligns with recent evidence indicating that female physicians are often judged more on appearance than their male counterparts. The way female physicians dress significantly influences perceptions of competence and professionalism, highlighting the gendered expectations that patients hold," write the researchers.

"These gender-specific preferences for surgical attire were each supported by a single study and warrant further validation None the less, gender-related perceptions of physician attire were consistently reported across studies with a low risk of bias, supporting the robustness of this theme," they add.

A few studies explored doctors' attire during the COVID-19 pandemic, when numerous doctors reported a preference for wearing scrubs to prioritise hygiene and ease of movement.

These studies consistently reported a shift in patient preference towards practical and hygienic attire, such as scrubs and face masks, reflecting heightened sensitivity to infection control, say the researchers.

The researchers acknowledge various limitations to their findings, in particular the fact that most of the included studies were carried out in the USA, there were none from South America, and only a few from European, Asian, and African countries. Many of the studies also relied on self-reported data, and none included children or patients with mental health issues.

"While the traditional white coat is seen as a symbol of professionalism and trust, patients have increasingly accepted scrubs, especially in emergency or high-risk settings," they write.

"The expectations regarding attire are often gendered, particularly affecting the recognition and respect given to female physicians, which highlights the importance of institutional initiatives aimed at reducing bias and fostering equitable perceptions among patients," they add.

Medical institutions should consider adopting flexible dress codes that align with patient preferences for different clinical environments and medical specialties, they suggest.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a breakthrough diagnostic tool that could transform how quickly and reliably we detect illnesses like COVID-19, Ebola, AIDS or Lyme disease. The test uses just a single drop of blood, costs a couple of dollars and delivers results in only 15 minutes.

In a new study, the researchers show the test can detect the virus that causes COVID-19 with pinpoint accuracy, clearly distinguishing it from other infections.

The new diagnostic device, called NasRED (Nanoparticle-Supported Rapid Electronic Detection), is simple and portable enough to be used almost anywhere - from remote rural clinics to busy urban hospitals. The tool provides lab-quality accuracy without expensive equipment and does not require specialized training, giving it the potential to become a public health game changer.

We have the speed and ease of use of a rapid antigen test with sensitivity that's even better than lab-based tests. This is very difficult to achieve." Chao Wang, Study Lead Author, Associate Professor, School of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, Arizona State University

Wang is an associate professor with the Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics. He is joined by ASU researchers Yeji Choi, Seyedsina Mirjalili, Ashif Ikbal, Sean McClure, Maziyar Kalateh Mohammadi, Scott Clemens, Jose Solano, John Heggland, Tingting Zhang and Jiawei Zuo.

The research appears in the current issue of the journal ACS Nano.

Halting the spread of infectious diseases

Infectious diseases are one of humanity's deadliest threats, causing immense suffering and economic damage worldwide. Collectively, infectious diseases cause over 10 million deaths around the world each year, and they are the leading cause of death in low-income countries.

Nearly 800,000 Americans die or are permanently disabled every year due to diagnostic errors, according to a study published in BMJ Quality & Safety. Many of these cases involve infections or vascular events that might have been treatable if caught early.

In many low- and middle-income countries, access to reliable diagnostic testing is limited or nonexistent. Expensive equipment, shortages of trained personnel and long turnaround times all contribute to delayed or missed diagnoses - often with deadly consequences.

A fast, affordable and portable test like NasRED would enable frontline health workers globally to detect infections early and respond before outbreaks spiral out of control.

"In many parts of the world, including the U.S., diseases are spreading, but people often don't get tested - even for something like HIV. Ideally, you'd want to test them regularly, to catch infections early," Wang says. "For example, people who use injection drugs are at higher risk for HIV or HCV, but they may be living in the streets and hard to reach. If we don't test them consistently over time, we may miss the chance to intervene - until they develop serious complications like cancer or liver disease, when it's much harder to treat."

Striking diagnostic gold

At the core of the new test are tiny gold nanoparticles, engineered to detect extremely small amounts of disease-related proteins. Researchers coat these nanoparticles with special molecules designed to detect specific diseases.

Some nanoparticles carry antibodies, tiny molecules that act like magnets. Antibodies stick to proteins released by viruses or bacteria when they infect the body. Other nanoparticles carry antigens, fragments of proteins taken directly from viruses or bacteria themselves. These naturally attract antibodies produced by the body to fight infections.

Once coated, these nanoparticles are combined with a tiny sample of bodily fluid, such as a drop of blood, saliva or nasal fluid. If a disease is present, most nanoparticles will sink to the bottom of the tube. If there is no disease, they will remain suspended throughout the liquid.

The NasRED device shines a small beam of LED light through the liquid at the top of the tube. The team built a custom electronic detector that senses how much light gets through the tube. More light means the nanoparticles have sunk to the bottom, leaving the top fluid clearer, meaning that the disease is present.

Accurate, accessible, and affordable

The device is so sensitive it can detect disease even when only a few hundred molecules are present in a tiny fluid sample - just a fraction of a single drop. This is a concentration nearly 100,000 times lower than what standard laboratory tests require.

Adding to its promise is NasRED's portability and affordability. The current gold standards for testing, like PCR or ELISA, require expensive equipment and trained technicians. NasRED is compact and user-friendly. The researchers estimate each test costs $2, making it ideal for use in low-resource or remote locations.

NasRED has the potential to fill a critical diagnostic gap, especially for diseases that are difficult to detect early, such as hepatitis C, HIV, or Lyme disease. It is also promising for emerging outbreaks with low prevalence but high risk. Such diseases often go undiagnosed because running a lab test for just one or two patients isn't cost-effective. NasRED bridges that gap by offering a highly sensitive test that works immediately and economically at the point of care.

While NasRED currently requires small, benchtop machines for spinning and mixing samples, the researchers are working to further miniaturize and automate the process. With continued development, the technology might one day become a convenient home test, similar to existing rapid COVID-19 tests. However, it would have vastly superior sensitivity and broader applications.

Significant leap forward in diagnostics

NasRED dramatically surpasses existing diagnostic standards. The new study shows that NasRED is roughly 3,000 times more sensitive than ELISA, requires 16 times less sample volume, and delivers results approximately 30 times faster.

An earlier version of the technology detected Ebola in a tiny sample of blood. "For the new technology, we pushed the sensitivity down to the attomolar range," Wang says. That's like detecting a single drop of ink in 20 Olympic swimming pools.

The technology holds promise for detecting viral loads directly from bodily fluids without the complicated sample preparation used in PCR-based methods. In preliminary tests with actual coronavirus particles, NasRED achieved sensitivities comparable to Abbott ID NOW, a popular molecular test for many diseases such as COVID-19.

"One of the strengths of our sensor is that it's highly modular," Wang says. "The nanoparticles are designed so that we can easily swap in different proteins, allowing the same platform to be adapted for many different diseases. We've already demonstrated this approach in our research on Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, as well as cancer biomarkers, Alzheimer's-related proteins, Lyme disease and African swine fever."

Wang recently received the Bay Area Lyme Foundation Emerging Leader Award and will make use of the high sensitivity and portability of this new technology to detect early Lyme infection.

As the technology evolves, its range of applications may extend beyond infectious diseases. Early detection of cancers, real-time monitoring of chronic illnesses and improved surveillance of public health threats are all within reach.
ATMA Receives International Honour for Tyre Safety Awareness

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:15 IST

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VMPLNew Delhi [India], August 13: Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) has been bestowed with a prestigious Special Recognition Award by UK-based tyre safety charity TyreSafe during its annual briefing recently. This acknowledgment marks the first instance of TyreSafe presenting an international award, underscoring worldwide appreciation of ATMAs tyre safety drive.Highlighting the award citation, TyreSafe noted ATMA Indias Special Recognition award is a testament to their profound dedication and innovative approach to tyre safety. Their initiatives have educated over 20,000 participants, inspected more than 30,000 tyres, and inspired future road safety advocates through their impactful Ideathons program, setting them apart and aligning with TyreSafes global vision for safer roads."We are immensely proud that TyreSafe has recognised ATMAs work in tyre safety. This award underscores our commitment to elevating public awareness and encouraging responsible tyre maintenance through engagement with motorists and institutional partnerships. Our journey continues with the shared vision of making roads safer across India" said Mr. Arun Mammen, Chairman, ATMA.This recognition by TyreSafe validates our extensive grassroots efforts: from petrol pump tyre clinics and university workshops to Ideathons and expressway campaigns. Educating over 20,000 people and inspecting 30,000 tyres is just the beginning. We will keep amplifying our message: proper tyre maintenance is crucial not just for vehicle performance but for saving lives" said Mr. Sudershan Gusain, Head  Tyre Safety Awareness, ATMA/ITTACOver the years, ATMA has cast a wide footprint of tyre safety activities including:Nationwide public outreach: ATMA, together with its technical arm Indian Tyre Technical Advisory Committee (ITTAC), has actively carried out more than 200 tyre safety activationsranging from roadside tyre clinics and petrol pump check-up zones to school workshops and university engagements in the last few years. Over 20000 individuals, including motorists, commercial drivers, students, and public service officials, were reached during this time.Institutional partnerships: Collaborations with Indian Oil Corporation saw over 1000 tanker drivers across different states enroll in comprehensive tyre maintenance training. Similar programs were held with several state government transport departments and road transport bodies.Educational outreach & Ideathons: School Connect initiatives reached nearly 10,000 school students, while college-level Ideathonslike those at the Bharat Mobility Global Expoengaged youth in developing innovative road safety concepts The 2025 edition featured creative solutions like the Tyre Safety Ring, unveiled in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport & HighwaysExpressway campaigns: On the Samruddhi Mahamarg and Yamuna Expressway, ATMA/ITTAC engineers carried out tyre inspections on over 2,000 vehicles, distributing safety booklets and awareness materialsContinuous industry-led education: ATMA and ITTAC also organize webinars, animation films, social-media campaigns and signage materials. They support through publications like the ITTAC Standards Manual and Tyre Condition guides.As India continues to address the challenge of road safety, ATMA and ITTAC remain dedicated to scaling tyre and road safety outreach. ATMA urges vehicle users, academic institutions, transport authorities and policy makers to join this expanding movement.Supported by member companiesApollo, Bridgestone, CEAT, JK Tyre, MRFATMA is committed to partnering with state and central government bodies to ensure tyres are recognized not merely as mechanical components, but as essential life-safety systems.(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)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:15 IST

News agency-feeds ATMA Receives International Honour for Tyre Safety Awareness

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Budget constraints wont stall Delhis development: CM Rekha Gupta

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

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New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has asserted that development work in the national capital will not be hindered by financial constraints, as she directed all department heads to ensure timely completion of projects, officials said on Wednesday.

The chief minister earlier this week held a special meeting with the heads of all departments to review the progress of the ongoing development projects, public service initiatives, and administrative reforms, an official statement said.

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During the meeting, Gupta directed the department heads to ensure that the ongoing development projects across Delhi are completed on schedule, with continuous monitoring by responsible officials, it said.

She stressed that the capitals progress towards a Developed Delhi" will not be impeded by financial constraints, noting that the Delhi government has an adequate budget while the Central government is also providing full support.

The chief minister also directed that the e-office system be strengthened and utilised to its full potential, stressing that no development work should face obstruction under any circumstances.

She issued clear directives that all capital projects outlined in the budget must be implemented without any delay, and their progress reviewed regularly.

Senior officials must continuously monitor these initiatives and take immediate, effective action to resolve any issues, the chief minister said.

She highlighted that the Delhi government has passed a record budget of Rs 1 lakh crore to ensure that no project faces financial constraints.

Gupta added that she will continue to review the projects regularly to ensure their timely completion.

She also expressed satisfaction with the success of the digital governance system, and emphasised promoting it further, along with ensuring the full implementation of the e-office system.

Noting that 119 out of the 199 departments have adopted the system, she asked the remaining ones to join the e-office system immediately to ensure complete digitalisation of offices.

The chief minister also stressed the active participation of all the departments in the Kude Se Azadi campaign being run in August.

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Gupta also instructed the department heads to prioritise tasks related to representatives or ministers of the Central or Delhi governments, legislators, etc., as their work is linked to public interest.

She said all department heads should prioritise renovation of their office premises so that the work environment is appropriate and people do not face any inconvenience. PTI SLB ARI

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

News agency-feeds Budget constraints wont stall Delhis development: CM Rekha Gupta

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Chlorine gas leaks from Bhopal factory; situation under control

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

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Bhopal, Aug 13 (PTI) Panic gripped an industrial area in Bhopal on Wednesday after chlorine gas leaked from a factory, officials said.

There are no reports of any inconvenience to people and the situation is under control, Deputy Superintendent of Police Aditi Bhavsar, told PTI Videos.

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After receiving the information in the afternoon, personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and municipal corporation rushed to the spot. No casualty has been reported as the industrial unit was closed," Bhavsar added.

SDRF District Commandant Ram Sharma stated that the situation was brought under control within one and a half hours after the gas leaked.

The owner of Adish Industries, however, denied the gas leak.

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No gas was leaked. Some powder caught fire, emitting smoke. We took all precautionary measures and the situation was brought under control within half an hour," Raghav Goswami claimed.

Over 40 years ago, highly toxic gas methyl isocyanate (MIC) leaked from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal in the intervening night of December 2-3, 1984, killing 5,479 people and maiming more than five lakh others, in the worst industrial disaster. PTI MAS NSK

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

News agency-feeds Chlorine gas leaks from Bhopal factory; situation under control

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DUSU elections to be held on September 18

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

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New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI) The Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) elections for the 202526 academic year will be held on September 18, the university announced on Wednesday. Counting of votes will take place on September 19.

According to a DU notification, voting for day classes will be held from 8:30 am to 1 pm, while students of evening classes will cast their votes from 3 pm to 7:30 pm.

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The last date for receipt of nomination papers, along with a demand draft of Rs 500 as an annual fee and a bond of Rs 1 lakh, is September 10 by 3 pm. Scrutiny of nomination papers will be carried out the same day at 3:15 pm, followed by the publication of the list of duly nominated candidates by 6 pm, the notification said.

The deadline for withdrawing nominations is September 11 till noon, and the final list of candidates will be published by 5 pm the same day.

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For DUSU posts, nomination papers must be submitted to the Office of the Chief Election Officer at the Conference Centre, opposite the Botany Department on North Campus. Nomination papers for Central Council seats must be submitted to the respective colleges or departments.

The notification also highlighted that the code of conduct, constitution of DUSU, Supreme Court orders on student union elections, and related guidelines are available on the DU website. PTI MHS MHS KVK KVK

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

News agency-feeds DUSU elections to be held on September 18

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FC Goa edge past Al Seeb to enter AFC Champions League 2 group stage

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 22:15 IST

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Margao, Aug 13 (PTI) Indian Super League side FC Goa qualified for the AFC Champions League 2 group stage with an impressive 2-1 win over Omans Al Seeb Club in the preliminary round here on Wednesday.

Dejan Drazic (24) opened the scoring with a sublime chip before Javier Siverio (52) doubled the advantage for Goa. Al Seeb, the 2022 AFC Cup champions, threatened a comeback when Nasser Al-Rawahi (60) pulled one back, but the Gaurs held firm.

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FC Goa thus join fellow ISL team Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the continental tournaments group stage. The Mariners had secured a direct berth by clinching the 2024-25 Indian Super League Shield.

Al Seeb began on the front foot, forcing early defensive heroics from Pol Moreno in just the second minute, while Zahir Al Aghbaris close-range effort was blocked.

The home side took time to settle and could have broken the deadlock in the ninth minute when Drazic broke free on the left but with only the keeper to beat, the midfielders soft shot was easily collected by Ahmed Al Rawahi.

Al Rawahi was in the thick of things again for Al Seeb in the 23rd minute when his timely tackle opened up space to set up Abdul Aziz Al Muqbali, whose curling effort was parried away by FC Goa keeper Hrithik Tiwari.

But FC Goa found the net a minute later as Borja Herreras pinpoint long pass found Drazic on the left, with the midfielder evading Al Rawahis challenge before delicately chipping the ball over Ahmed Al Khamisi and into the back of the net.

The Indian Super League side stayed on top of things in the second half with Drazic outmuscling the Al Seeb defenders to surge into the box before forcing Al Rawahi to palm away his stinging shot in the 52nd minute.

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The momentum saw FC Goa extend their lead moments later when Herreras cross off a corner floated into the box perfectly for Siverio to rise above Al Rawahi for a headed finish.

Al Seeb reduced the deficit at the hour mark through Nasser Al Rawahis strike from close range off Ali Al Busaidis cutback but that was to be it as FC Goa booked their spot in the Group Stage. They will now wait to discover their Group Stage opponents on Friday. PTI APA BS BS

First Published: August 13, 2025, 22:15 IST

News agency-feeds FC Goa edge past Al Seeb to enter AFC Champions League 2 group stage

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IOA formally approves Indias 2030 CWG bid during its SGM

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:30 IST

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New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI) The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday formally approved the countrys bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games during its Special General Meeting (SGM) here.

India has already submitted an Expression of Interest for the 2030 CWG with Ahmedabad as the host city. But the nation will have to submit the proposals for the final bid before the August 31 deadline.

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With Canada having pulled out of the race, Indias chances of getting the 2030 CWG have brightened.

A team of officials from Commonwealth Sport, led by its Director of Games Darren Hall, recently visited Ahmedabad to inspect the venues and meet Gujarat government officials.

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A bigger large delegation of Commonwealth Sport is expected to be there later this month.

The General Assembly of Commonwealth Sport will decide the host country in the last week of November in Glasgow. India has previously hosted the 2010 edition of the multi-sport event in Delhi. PTI PDS ATK PM ATK PM PM

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:30 IST

News agency-feeds IOA formally approves Indias 2030 CWG bid during its SGM

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Jharkhand HC slaps Rs 20 lakh fine on BIT Mesra over death of student on campus

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 22:00 IST

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Ranchi, Aug 13 (PTI) The Jharkhand High Court has slapped a fine of Rs 20 lakh on the Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, to be paid to the parents of a student who was murdered on its campus last year.

The court also formulated guidelines to be followed by educational institutes and schools across the state for dealing with medical emergencies faced by students.

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The bench of Justice Sanjay Prasad observed that BIT-Mesra failed in its duty to protect a student under its care, and the institutional failure contributed to the loss of a life.

The court had on August 12 ordered that a list of government and private hospitals with ambulance facilities be maintained by all educational institutes in Jharkhand.

A medical dispensary or clinic should be operational in every school and college with one male and female doctor for every 500 to 1,000 students, equipped with medicine and life-saving drugs, the judge ordered.

The names of hospitals and doctors with their contact numbers should also be prominently displayed on notice boards in classrooms and in key locations in the institute, the order said.

The court also directed the installation of CCTV cameras inside and outside classrooms and hostel entrances.

Besides, a separate grievance cell and a student monitoring team should be constituted to liaison between students and the institute, it said.

The high court said that a portal or website for grievance redressal of students and parents should also be created by the institute.

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Justice Prasad, after hearing the petitions of convicts Mausam Kumar Singh, Abhishek Kumar, Sahil Ansari and Irfan Ansari, rejected their pleas.

The court had earlier ordered the DGP and the state government to formulate a standard operating procedure to ensure safety of students in educational institutes. PTI CORR NAM RBT

First Published: August 13, 2025, 22:00 IST

News agency-feeds Jharkhand HC slaps Rs 20 lakh fine on BIT Mesra over death of student on campus

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Michael Chiklis says his Fantastic Four films were very underrated

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:30 IST

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Washington DC [US], August 13 (ANI): Actor Michael Chiklis, who played Ben Grimm / The Thing in Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007), shared that the films were very underrated" and he believes that critics at the time got it wrong", according to The Hollywood Reporter. There were a lot of people, I think, critically who got it wrong," he said of the 2005 film and its 2007 follow-up Rise of the Silver Surfer.They really maligned our films, and they were very underrated considering The audience very loved them. It was one of those cases where critics werent great to those films, but the audience was, and that still remains," Chiklis said.However, he acknowledged the appreciation shown by the audience as opposed to critics, adding, And now all these years later, people are sort of acknowledging like, hey, these films are family-friendly, fun movies They got a lot right. They may be imperfect, but theyre really good movies," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Alongside Chiklis, Fantastic Four starred Ioan Gruffudd as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Jessica Alba as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman and Chris Evans as Johnny Storm/Human Torch. Marvel revamped the characters for the 2025 film, which saw Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Joseph Quinn star as the team. About the new movie and Moss-Bachrach, who plays Ben/the Thing in the modern adaptation, Chiklis said, I had a great experience doing them, and I just I hope that it kills. And it seems like its doing really well. And by the way, I really like Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Hes a terrific actor, so Im really looking forward to see what he does with the Thing," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Michael Chiklis is best known for his roles as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Detective Vic Mackey on the FX police drama The Shield (2002-2008), for which he won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2002, and as Ben Grimm / The Thing in Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007).Other notable television roles of his include bald Commissioner Tony Scali on The Commish (1991-1996), bald Dell Toledo in American Horror Story: Freak Show (2014-2015), and Nathaniel Barnes in Gotham (2015-2017). (ANI)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:30 IST

News agency-feeds Michael Chiklis says his Fantastic Four films were very underrated

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TALLINN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A Polish citizen has been detained by Estonian security services for allegedly planning to join the Russian army and fight in the war against Ukraine.

The 49-year-old Polish man was detained on Aug. 5, with media being informed by the Viru County Prosecutor's Office and the Internal Security Service (KaPo) on Wednesday.

The man reportedly attempted to cross the border between Estonia and Russia illegally, via the Narva River on an inflatable mattress. He was found with items bearing symbols supporting aggression.

An investigation established that he had arrived in Estonia from Serbia.

Gardi Anderson, chief prosecutor of the Viru County Prosecutor's Office, said that joining the armed forces of the Russian Federation constitutes an indirect threat to the security of both Estonia and the entire European Union. On Aug. 6, the court granted the prosecution's request to place the detainee in custody for two months.

KaPo emphasized that participation in aggression against Ukraine is a crime, and that foreign citizens attempting to support Russia's military actions via Estonia will also be prosecuted. 
Odisha govt to set up 38 model mandis at Rs 300 cr in two years

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

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Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 (PTI) The Odisha government on Wednesday decided to set up 38 model mandis (agri marketing yards) in 30 districts of the state in two years with a cost of Rs 300 crore, an official said.

At a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved a proposal in this regard along with six others.

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These model mandis have been designed to provide seamless and efficient platforms for farmers, traders and other stakeholders by integrating all essential marketing activities under one roof, with upgraded infrastructure and digital systems, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja said.

In the first phase, 14 large mandis, 17 medium and seven small ones will be set up in the financial years 2025-26 and 2026-27 with an approximate cost of Rs 300 crore, he said.

Out of that, Rs 150 crore will be mobilised from the resources of Regulated Market Committees (RMCs) and the remaining amount will be provisioned from the state plan scheme, Ahuja said.

The Cooperation Department has already made provision of Rs 50 crore under this scheme in the current financial year.

In the next phase, 62 mandis will be developed as model mandis and the process of identification has already started, he added.

The model mandis will have modern storage space, raised concrete drying platforms, cover sheds, quality testing kiosks, cooling chambers, farmers rest-sheds, clean toilets, separate facilities for women farmers, eateries/canteens, vending zones, bank branches & ATMs, parking, electronic weigh bridges, retail outlets relevant to the farming community and waste disposal facilities.

The chief secretary also said that the Cabinet has approved a tender of Rs 382.40 crore for 247 water supply to all households of Sambalpur, Burla and Hirakud towns of western Odisha.

The amount includes construction of the entire project and its operation & maintenance for five years.

The construction work is scheduled to start from September and is targeted to be completed by August 2027, he said.

The state government has approved another proposal for implementation of LED public street light project (retrofitting) in all 110 urban local bodies of Odisha with a cost of Rs 350 crore, Ahuja said.

The government has decided to establish a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MOR) facility for aircraft at Biju Patnaik International Airport here.

The Cabinet has approved a special incentive package for the anchor MRO to facilitate the establishment of the facility, the chief secretary said.

This will be the first major MRO facility in eastern India and a key milestone to strengthen civil aviation infrastructure in Odisha, he added.

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Further, the state government has decided to set up a separate Directorate of Museums for better management and coordination of the state museums.

Besides, the Cabinet has approved promulgation of rules for recruitment of faculties in the government-run colleges of nursing & ANM training centres. PTI BBM NN

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:45 IST

News agency-feeds Odisha govt to set up 38 model mandis at Rs 300 cr in two years

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Railway Ministry allows opening of single brand premium stores at stations

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

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New Delhi, August 13 (PTI) Zonal Railways can allot single-brand, company-owned premium outlets at stations through e-auctions if there is a demand and justification for the same, the Railway Ministry has said.

In an official communication dated August 11, 2025, the Ministry responded to a proposal of the South Central Railway for guidelines regarding the opening of premium single-brand outlets on a par with airports and said that after examining the matter, it has been decided that the stalls can be allotted within the existing policy and not on a nomination basis.

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The Divisions/Zonal Railways concerned shall identify premium locations and suitable product/service categories based on footfall, space availability, passenger demographics and other relevant station-specific characteristics," the Ministry said.

The Ministry has clarified that the allotments of the stalls would be as per the governing e-auction policy.

For awarding such contracts, a dedicated Premium Stores" segment may be created within the e-auction module. The successful bidder can decide the brand/s for the outlet," the Ministry said.

It asked the zones to ensure that such stalls should enhance the ambience of the stations and the image of Indian Railways.

The Divisions concerned may formulate the Special Conditions of the contract as per the requirements," the Ministry said.

Earlier, the South Central Railway (SCR) wrote to the Ministry and said that Station Redevelopment Works, both Major Upgradation and ABSS (The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme), at many of its stations are targeted for completion during the current financial year of 2025-26.

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In tune with the world class facilities being provided to the passengers, there is need to permit Premium Single Brand Outlets of various non-catering categories like travel accessories (Samsonite/American Tourister/VIP etc), Apparels (Arrow/Van Heusen/Peter England/Biba etc), Footwear and Sportsgear (Nike/Adidas/Reebok etc) and other items at stations on par with similar facilities available to passengers at airports," the SCR said.

It added, It is therefore requested to issue guidelines for provision of Premium Single Brand Outlets at stations under NFR (Non-Fare Revenue) at the earliest so that commercial spaces developed at the stations under Major Upgradation and ABSS are put to effective use not only for providing enhanced passenger experience but also for improving revenue to Railways. PTI JP AMJ AMJ

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

News agency-feeds Railway Ministry allows opening of single brand premium stores at stations

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Several students of tribal school take ill after drinking contaminated water

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

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Chandrapur, Aug 13 (PTI) At least 80 students of a state-run tribal school in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra took ill, purportedly after drinking contaminated water, an official said on Wednesday.

He said the affected children are students of the tribal ashram school in Jambhulghat, Chimur.

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At least 70 to 80 students fell ill after drinking contaminated water in the school on Sunday. They complained of vomiting and dizziness. Eight students were admitted to the hospital in Chimur in a serious condition. Six of them were discharged," the official said.

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He said health department officials had already examined the area and asked the Panchayat Samiti to replace the ashram schools water source.

Further investigation is underway. PTI COR NSK

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

News agency-feeds Several students of tribal school take ill after drinking contaminated water

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Trump, Putin will meet at Alaska military base long used to counter Russia

Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 00:00 IST

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Washington, Aug 13 (AP) In an ironic twist, President Donald Trump is set to discuss the war in Ukraine with Russian leader Vladimir Putin at a military base in Alaska that was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height of Cold War and still plays a role today.

The meeting is scheduled to take place Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, according to a White House official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning.

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The base created by merging Elmendorf Air Force Base and Army Fort Richardson in 2010 has played a key strategic role in monitoring and deterring the Soviet Union during much of the Cold War.

Throughout its long history, the base hosted large numbers of aircraft and oversaw operations of a variety of early warning radar sites that were aimed at detecting Soviet military activity and any possible nuclear launches. It earned the motto Top Cover for North America" at this time, according to the base website.

While much of the military hardware has since been deactivated, the base still hosts key aircraft squadrons, including the F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jet. Planes from the base also still intercept Russian aircraft that regularly fly into US airspace.

The irony of Putin visiting an American military base that long has  and still does  aimed to counter Russian threats comes as Trump works to reach a ceasefire deal in a war that he promised during the 2024 campaign to end quickly.

Officials from Ukraine and Europe fear that the one-on-one meeting they will not take part in could lead to an outcome that favours Russian goals.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear" that the United States wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit. Macron spoke after a virtual meeting between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders.

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Trump has said any major agreement could involve land swaps and that Zelenskyy and Putin could meet next or he could meet with both leaders.

Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is Im going to find out where we are and what were doing," Trump told reporters Wednesday. Its going to be a very important meeting, but its setting the table for the second meeting." (AP) GSP

First Published: August 14, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Trump, Putin will meet at Alaska military base long used to counter Russia

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Ukhand Cabinet approves 10% reservation for former Agniveers in uniformed posts

Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 00:00 IST

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Dehradun, Aug 13 (PTI) The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Wednesday approved 10 per cent horizontal reservation for direct recruitment in government services to former Agniveers after their return from the army.

The Cabinet gave its approval in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

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The reservation pertains to uniformed posts of Group C in services under the state government, an official source said.

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Former Agniveers will be exempted from the physical efficiency test in the direct recruitment, the source said.

Apart from this, they will also be given relaxation in the maximum age limit. PTI ALM VN VN

First Published: August 14, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Ukhand Cabinet approves 10% reservation for former Agniveers in uniformed posts

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US, Pak to deepen bilateral cooperation to tackle leading militant groups

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:30 IST

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Islamabad, Aug 13 (PTI) Pakistan and the US have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation to tackle leading militant groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), ISIS-Khorasan, and the Taliban.

It transpired during their bilateral counterterrorism dialogue in Islamabad on Tuesday, a day after the US designated the Pakistan-based BLA a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.

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The dialogue was co-chaired by Nabeel Munir, Pakistans Special Secretary for the UN, and Gregory D. LoGerfo, the Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism at the US Department of State.

According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, the two sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations".

Both delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by Balochistan Liberation Army, ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan," it stated.

Reaffirming the long-standing partnership" between Pakistan and the US, both sides stressed that sustained and structured engagement" is vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability.

The US applauded Pakistans continued successes in containing terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world".

Both delegations emphasised the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes.

They also reaffirmed their intention to work closely in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to promote effective and enduring approaches to counterterrorism".

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The BLA was blacklisted in 2019 following a string of deadly attacks in Pakistan but it has continued terrorist activities, including taking credit for the hijacking of the Jaffar Express this year. Pakistan had blamed India for allegedly supporting the BLA.

Pakistan and the US ties have markedly improved in recent months, as witnessed by back-to-back visits of Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to the US and having high profile interaction, including with President Donald Trump. PTI SH GRS ZH GRS GRS

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:30 IST

News agency-feeds US, Pak to deepen bilateral cooperation to tackle leading militant groups

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Uttarakhand Cabinet approves amendments to anti-conversion law

Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 00:15 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Dehradun, Aug 13 (PTI) The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Wednesday approved amendments to the anti-conversion law to make it harsher, with stringent provisions like punishment up to life imprisonment and heavy fines being added to the new bill.

The Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Bill-2025 was approved in the state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, official sources said.

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According to the bill, apart from strict punishment for illegal religious conversion, provisions such as ban on propaganda through digital medium and protection of victims have been added, they said.

The definition of inducement has been expanded in the bill to include gifts, cash/goods benefits, employment, free education, promise of marriage, hurting religious faith or glorifying another religion, categorising all of them as crime.

It makes punishable the acts like promoting or inciting conversion through social media, messaging app or any online medium.

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There is a provision in the bill for three to 10 years imprisonment for general violation, five to 14 years in cases related to sensitive class and 20 years to life imprisonment in serious cases and heavy fines.

The proposed bill also makes a provision for strict punishment for marriage by creating fake identity or hiding religion besides making a provision for protection, rehabilitation, medical, travel and maintenance expenses of the victims of illegal conversions. According to the state government, the proposed legislation will protect the religious rights of the citizens, prohibit conversion by fraud, inducement or pressure and maintain social harmony, the sources said. PTI ALM ALM KVK KVK

First Published: August 14, 2025, 00:15 IST

News agency-feeds Uttarakhand Cabinet approves amendments to anti-conversion law

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India And China May Resume Direct Flights In September, Full Details Inside

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:04 IST

PM Modis visit to China could mark a turning point in bilateral ties after years of tension.

(Representative image / PTI)

India and China are preparing to bring back direct flights as early as September.

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The announcement is expected around the time Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits China at the end of August for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.

Sources say the Indian government has asked airlines to be ready for quick deployment. IndiGo has already started preparations, while an official declaration could come during the summit.

Why Did Flights Stop?

Direct air services between the two countries came to a halt in early 2020 following the outbreak of Covid-19. Travellers have since been forced to connect via hubs like Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Singapore.

As per Hindustan Times, ties soured further after the June 2020 Galwan Valley clashes in eastern Ladakh, which claimed the lives of 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops. In response, India banned several Chinese apps, which Beijing called discriminatory."

Whats Next?

Last month, India resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals. Before the suspension, carriers like Air India, IndiGo, Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern ran over a dozen weekly direct flights connecting major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Kunming with New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

The two sides had already agreed in principle to restart flights in January, along with plans to revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and boost exchanges between media and think tanks.

PM Modi is set to visit China for the first time in seven years to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin on August 31 and September 1.

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China has welcomed the visit, calling it an opportunity for greater solidarity, coordination, and productiveness". A bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping is also possible during the trip.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 13:04 IST

News auto India And China May Resume Direct Flights In September, Full Details Inside

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IndiGo To Launch Direct Mumbai Flights To Tashkent And Almaty This September

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:05 IST

This expansion comes shortly after the airline began direct services between Mumbai and Tbilisi, Georgia.

IndiGo Flight | Representative Image

IndiGo is adding two exciting destinations to its international network from Mumbai  Tashkent in Uzbekistan and Almaty in Kazakhstan.

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The new flights will take off on 1 September 2025 for Tashkent and 2 September 2025 for Almaty. Both routes will operate four times a week, offering more travel choices for leisure and business flyers, as per ANI.

This move comes soon after IndiGo launched flights from Mumbai to Tbilisi, Georgia, showing a clear strategy to position Mumbai as a strong hub for international connectivity.

Flight Schedule

Mumbai  Tashkent (6E 1821)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

Depature: 09:55

Arrival: 15:00

Tashkent  Mumbai (6E 1822)

Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat

Depature: 16:20

Arrival: 21:55

Mumbai  Almaty (6E 1817)

Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun

Depature: 19:00

Arrival: 00:25

Almaty  Mumbai (6E 1818)

Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat

Depature: 01:25

Arrival: 08:20

Tickets Now on Sale

Bookings for both routes are open on IndiGos official website and mobile app. With these additions, passengers can fly directly to vibrant Central Asian cities from Mumbai, avoiding extra layovers and enjoying more efficient travel.

Why Central Asia?

Central Asia has become increasingly popular with Indian travellers in recent years. From snow-capped mountains to bustling bazaars, these destinations are attracting both tourists and business visitors. The direct flights will cut travel times and remove the need for stopovers in Gulf or other transit cities.

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Building on our successful New Delhi routes, we are delighted to connect Mumbai with Tbilisi, Almaty, and Tashkent," said Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo. Alongside our new long-haul services to Manchester and Amsterdam, were making Mumbai a gateway to the world."

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 09:05 IST

News auto IndiGo To Launch Direct Mumbai Flights To Tashkent And Almaty This September

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Domino's Q1 Results: Jubilant Foods Posts 29% YoY Jump In Standalone Net Profit To Rs 67 Crore

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 17:47 IST

Jubilant adds 67 new Domino's stores during the last three quarters, while Popeyes and Dunkin Donuts saw one and two stores, respectively, being closed during the period.

Jubilant Q1 Results.

Leading QSR chain operators Jubilant Foods Ltd (JFL) on Wednesday, August 13, reported a 29% year-on-year jump in its standalone net profit to Rs 67 crore for the first quarter of the current financial year 2025-26. Its revenue from operations during April-June 2025 rose 18 per cent to Rs 1,702 crore, compared with Rs 1,440 crore in the year-ago period.

Its net profit had stood at Rs 51.5 crore in the corresponding period last year.

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The company, which owns Dominos, posted better earnings per share (EPS) of Rs 1.01 per share in Q1 FY26, while expenses grew nearly 18 per cent on-year to Rs 1,626 crore.

Jubilant added 67 new Dominos stores during the last three quarters, while Popeyes and Dunkin Donuts saw one and two stores, respectively, being closed during the period. In India, the company now operates 2,240 Dominos outlets, 60 Popeyes stores, 33 Hongs Kitchen outlets and 29 Dunkin stores.

Sameer Khetarpal, CEO and MD of Jubilant FoodWorks, said, Q1 has been a stellar start, setting the tone for a dynamic year ahead. Weve accelerated menu innovation, significantly expanded the share of our own digital assets and made decisive strides towards achieving 20-minute delivery. In parallel, we continue to scale Popeyes with the ambition of making it Indias most loved chicken brand. Our focus remains firmly on margin expansion in the business, while maintaining strong cash flows from our Turkey business."

Jubilant FoodWorks Chairman Shyam S Bhartia and Co-Chairman Hari S Bhartia in a statement said, We are pleased with the strong start to the year, marked by healthy top-line growth and disciplined profitability. This performance sets a solid foundation for what we believe will be a high-impact year. Our unwavering commitment to putting the customer first, combined with sustained investments in technology, innovation, and operational excellence continues to power our competitive edge and promote long-term value creation."

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Last week, Jubilant Foods Ltd launched its US-based Fried Chicken brand Popeyes in Mumbai by opening four stores in the city. Louisiana-style fried chicken, which entered in India in January 2022 through master franchise agreement with Jubilant FoodWorks Ltd (JFL) is expanding its presence in the country.

Popeyes, which competes with rival QSR chains such as KFC among others, is expanding in the Southern city cluster as  Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi NCR in the North.

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: August 13, 2025, 17:46 IST

News business Domino's Q1 Results: Jubilant Foods Posts 29% YoY Jump In Standalone Net Profit To Rs 67 Crore

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This photo released by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Aug. 13, 2025 shows Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir attending a meeting of security officials. (IDF/Handout via Xinhua)

JERUSALEM/GAZA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir on Wednesday approved the main framework of a government plan to expand the offensive in Gaza to areas not yet under Israeli control.

The offensive will later target refugee camps in central Gaza and the southern area of Al Mawasi, where most of Gaza's 2.2 million residents have taken shelter, according to a statement by the Israeli military.

The principles of the plan were approved in a meeting of security officials earlier on Wednesday, the statement said, adding that "the central concept for the plan for the next stages in the Gaza Strip was presented and approved, in accordance with the directive of the political echelon."

Zamir's approval came three days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military had been ordered to enter the "decisive stage" of the Gaza war, aimed at seizing the remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City, refugee camps in central Gaza, and Al Mawasi's southern area, an order widely condemned amid Gaza's worsening humanitarian crisis.

It also came as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar told a press briefing on Wednesday that Israel rejects a two-state solution and "will not allow" the establishment of a Palestinian state.

On Sunday, a rare emergency weekend meeting held by the UN Security Council saw widespread outrage at the Israeli plan. Yet the session ended with no resolution as the United States, a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, sided with Israel.

"If these (Israeli) plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacement, killings, and destruction, compounding the unbearable suffering of the population," UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenca warned the Council.

On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan slammed Israel over Gaza and accused Netanyahu of running a "network of massacres" and seeking to prolong his political survival at the cost of further bloodshed in the region.

On late Tuesday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud held a phone conversation, during which they reiterated rejection of the Israeli plan, calling it "an attempt to deepen the illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories, continue the genocide war against the unarmed Palestinians, undermine their right to self-determination and establish their independent state."

They also regarded the plan as "a blatant violation of international law and humanitarian international law," read a statement released Wednesday by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

Meanwhile, Mahmoud Basal, the spokesperson for Gaza's civil defense, told Xinhua at least 41 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza on Wednesday.

In southern Gaza, 12 people were killed by Israeli army gunfire while waiting to receive food near an aid center southwest of Khan Younis. In central Gaza, five people were killed and 10 others injured as the Israeli army targeted civilian gatherings near the aid distribution point at the Netzarim axis. Four were killed by Israeli fire while waiting for aid near Kissufim, east of Deir al-Balah, Basal said.

In Gaza City, at least 12 were killed during an Israeli airstrike at the home of the Abu Daf family in the Zeitoun neighborhood, east of the city, and eight others, including five children, were killed when tents housing displaced people were targeted in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, south of the city, Basal said.

According to local eyewitnesses, the Israeli army continued to demolish residential buildings in Rafah, Khan Younis, and eastern Gaza, in addition to artillery shelling in the eastern outskirts.

The developments came as a delegation of Hamas leaders, headed by Khalil Al-Hayya, on Wednesday continued its meetings in Cairo with Egyptian officials on ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.

Egypt's Al-Qahera News channel, citing an Egyptian official source, reported that the delegation arrived in Cairo on Tuesday to discuss resuming Gaza ceasefire talks, to reach a temporary 60-day truce agreement.

However, Netanyahu told Israeli broadcaster i24 on Tuesday in an interview that Israel is "not going back to partial agreements," accusing Hamas of "misleading" Israel, without providing details.

Gaza-based health authorities reported on Wednesday eight more deaths from famine and malnutrition in the past 24 hours, including three children, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths to 235, including 106 children.

The total number of people killed by Israeli strikes since October 2023 has risen to 61,722, with another 154,525 wounded, according to the health authorities. 

This photo released by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Aug. 13, 2025 shows Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir (C) attending a meeting of security officials. (IDF/Handout via Xinhua)
China Eases Urea Export Curbs To India In Sign Of Thawing Ties: Report

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:15 IST

Beijing's decision follows Trumps latest trade measures, doubling tariffs on Indian goods to 50% as a penalty for its purchases of Russian oil.

India, the world's largest importer of the crop nutrient, could purchase as much as 300,000 tonnes from China.

China has relaxed restrictions on urea shipments to India, signalling a possible easing of tensions between Beijing and New Delhi, Bloomberg has reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The move comes as US President Donald Trumps trade policies target both Asian nations.

India, the worlds largest importer of the crop nutrient, could purchase as much as 300,000 tonnes from China, according to the report. China, a major exporter of the nitrogen-based fertiliser, has curtailed sales in recent years.

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According to the Bloomberg report, Beijings decision follows Trumps latest trade measures, doubling tariffs on Indian goods to 50% as a penalty for its purchases of Russian oil, a step that has helped warm ties" between the two countries.

Relations between India and China hit a low in 2020 after deadly border clashes that killed 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese troops. Recently, India allowed tourist visas for Chinese nationals after years of restrictions, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi may meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a summit in Tianjin starting August 31, the report said.

The Ministry of Commerce in Beijing did not immediately respond to a fax seeking comment, while Indias Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers also did not reply to a request for comment, Bloomberg said.

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In 2023, almost half of Chinas urea exports went to India, but Beijing halted sales to all destinations last year. The ban was partially lifted in June, though restrictions on India remained until now.

While the planned 300,000-tonne volume is relatively small, it could grow into a significant trade flow, easing tight global supplies and cooling high prices. India imported about 5.7 million tonnes of urea in the fiscal year ended March 31  down nearly 20% from a year earlier  according to the Fertiliser Association of India. Purchases from China fell sharply to around 100,000 tonnes in 2024-25 from 1.87 million tonnes a year earlier.

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

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:15 IST

News business  economy China Eases Urea Export Curbs To India In Sign Of Thawing Ties: Report

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Regaal Resources IPO GMP: Issue Gets 26.4x Subscription On Day 2; Should You Apply?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 17:21 IST

Regaal Resources IPO GMP: Its grey market premium stands at 29.41%, indicating a strong market debut.

Regaal Resources IPO GMP.

Regaal Resources IPO GMP: The initial public offering of Regaal Resources Ltd, which is a maize-based speciality product manufacturer, witnessed its second day of bidding today, Wednesday, August 13. The price of the Rs 306-crore IPO has been fixed in the range of Rs 96-102 per share. On the second day of bidding on Wednesday, the issue received a 26.41x subscription, garnering bids for 55,46,11,680 shares as against the 2,10,00,379 shares on offer.

The retail and NII participation stood at 21.86x and 67.77x, respectively. The QIB category received a 3.36x subscription.

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The IPOs grey market premium stood at 29.41%, indicating a strong market debut.

Regaal Resources IPO Price And Lot Size

The price band of the IPO has been fixed in the range of Rs 96-102 per share.

For investors, the minimum lot size for the IPO is 144. It means investors will have to apply for a minimum of 144 shares or in multiple thereof. So, retail investors require a minimum capital of Rs 13,824 at the upper price band to apply for the IPO.

Regaal Resources IPO Key Dates

The IPO will remain open for public subscription between August 12, 2025, and August 14, 2025. The share allotment will likely be finalised on August 18, and the company is expected to be listed on both BSE and NSE on August 20.

Regaal Resources IPO GMP Today

According to market observers, unlisted shares of Regaal Resources Ltd are currently trading at Rs 132 against the upper IPO price of Rs 517. It means a grey market premium or GMP of Rs 30, which is 29.41% over its issue price, indicating a strong listing for the issue.

The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price.

Regaal Resources IPO: Should You Apply?

Most brokerages, including Arihant Capital Markets, BNK Securities, BP Equities, Canara Bank Securities, Reliance Securities, SMIF, Swastika Investmart, and Venture Securities, have assigned a subscribe tag to the IPO.

Anand Rathi in its IPO note has given a subscribe recommendation for the public issue, saying: On the valuation front, based on annualised FY25 earnings, the company is seeking a P/E of 21.9 times, and a post-issue market capitalisation of approximately 10,477 million, making the issue appear fully priced. We believe it has a capital-intensive nature of operations, exposure to Agri cycles, and limited pricing power in a commoditised market. However, its strategic location, diversified customer base, and expanding footprint support long-term scalability. Thus, we assign SUBSCRIBE for LONG TERM rating for this issue."

Regaal Resources IPO: More Info

Regaal Resources Ltd on Monday mobilised around Rs 92 crore from anchor investors, ahead of the IPO opening.

The price band has been fixed at Rs 96-102 per share.

The IPO has a fresh issue of shares worth Rs 210 crore and an offer-for-sale of 94.12 lakh shares valued at Rs 96 crore by promoters, at the upper end of the price band. This aggregates the issue size to Rs 306 crore.

Following the issue, the promoters stake will reduce to approximately 71 per cent from 100 per cent.

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Of the fresh issue proceeds, Rs 159 crore will go towards repayment or pre-payment of certain borrowings.

Regaal Resources operates a zero liquid discharge maize milling facility catering to customers in food products, paper, animal feed and adhesives across India, and in export markets such as Nepal and Bangladesh.

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: August 13, 2025, 12:45 IST

News business  ipo Regaal Resources IPO GMP: Issue Gets 26.4x Subscription On Day 2; Should You Apply?

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NSDL Shares Down 3.50% Despite Net Profit Jumps 15% To Rs 89.63 Cr

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:54 IST

NSDL Share Price: National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL) sees a 15.2% YoY increase in net profit to Rs 8,962.61 lakh for Q1 FY26, despite a 7.5% revenue drop.

NSDL Share Price Today.

NSDL Share Price: NSDL shares cracked 3.50 per cent intraday on Wednesday, August 13, following its Q1FY26 results, the first after its market debut. The scrip was trading at Rs 1244 apiece, against the days opening at Rs 1298 apiece.

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National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) on Tuesday reported a 15.2% year-on-year (YoY) rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 8,962.61 lakh for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared with Rs 7,782.51 lakh in the corresponding quarter last year.

Revenue from operations stood at Rs 31,202.56 lakh, marking a 7.5% decline from Rs 33,729 lakh in Q1 FY25. The fall was partly offset by a higher other income of Rs 3,476.81 lakh, up from Rs 2,758.90 lakh a year ago.

EBITDA for the quarter came in at Rs 13,992.36 lakh, registering a 27.2% YoY increase, aided by lower employee and other operating costs compared to the March quarter. EBIT stood at Rs 13,031.23 lakh, up 29.4% from Rs 10,072.48 lakh in Q1 FY25.

Total expenses in the June quarter were Rs 22,803.86 lakh, marginally up from Rs 26,533.91 lakh last year, reflecting cost discipline despite operational challenges.

Profit before tax (PBT) rose to Rs 11,834.69 lakh from Rs 9,998.38 lakh in the year-ago period. Tax expenses increased to Rs 2,872.08 lakh from Rs 2,215.87 lakh.

On a sequential basis, the company posted a 7.6% rise in net profit over Rs 8,329.68 lakh reported in the March 2025 quarter, while revenue fell 14.2% from Rs 36,359.98 lakh.

NSDLs earnings per share (EPS) for Q1 FY26 stood at Rs 4.48 compared to Rs 3.89 a year earlier.

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The National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) IPO, which concluded its public bidding on August 1, 2025, was a significant event in Indias capital markets, raising Rs 4,011.6 crore through an offer-for-sale (OFS) of 5.01 crore equity shares priced between Rs 760 and Rs 800 per share. The IPO, subscribed 41.02 times, saw robust demand from qualified institutional buyers (103.97 times), non-institutional investors (34.98 times), and retail investors (7.76 times), reflecting strong investor confidence in NSDLs position as Indias largest securities depository.

About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 09:12 IST

News business  markets NSDL Shares Down 3.50% Despite Net Profit Jumps 15% To Rs 89.63 Cr

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Heavy Rain Alert In Telangana For Next 72 Hours, Five Districts On Red Alert Today

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:36 IST

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy has directed officials to implement safety measures during heavy rains, restrict vehicle movement on flooded areas.

IMD Forecasts Heavy Rains for Next Three Days (PTI/File)

Hyderbad rain alert: Telangana is witnessing incessant rains and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for five districts for Wednesday. CM Revanth Reddy has instructed the officials to take necessary precautions and remain on alert.

As IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall for Hyderabad and other parts of the state, CM Reddy has urged the IT companies to allow Work From Home (WFH). Additionally, the education department has ordered half-day holiday for schools in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) area for Wednesday and Thursday. Friday will remain off because of Independence Day.

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Furthermore, IMD has issued an orange alert for nine districts, and a yellow alert for five more districts.

CM Reddy has instructed the officials to take all necessary safety measures to avoid the loss of life during heavy rains and also ensure no vehicle movement on the flooding bridges, canals, streams and causeways brimming with heavy flows in the low lying areas.

he Chief Minister held a video conference with senior officials of all departments and district Collectors from the Command Control Centre on Tuesday evening.

Sharing the details on X, CM Reddy wrote, I provided directions on the action plan to be followed during cloudbursts and the precautionary measures to be taken. I instructed that for the next three days, officials, employees, and staff should cancel their leaves and remain vigilant."

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As per IMDs latest bulletin, the red alert is issued to Hanumakonda, Jangaon, Mahabubabad, Warangal, and Yadadri Bhongir districts.

The orange alert is issued for Bhadradri Kothagudem, Hyderabad, Medchal Malkajgiri, Rangareddy, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Karimnagar, Mulugu, Peddapalli, and Siddipet districts, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected. The yellow alert is issued for Adilabad, Jagtial, Kumaram Bheem Asifabad, Mancherial, and Rajanna Sircilla districts, indicating the possibility of heavy rain in isolated places.

First Published: August 13, 2025, 09:10 IST

News hyderabad-news Heavy Rain Alert In Telangana For Next 72 Hours, Five Districts On Red Alert Today

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Mumbai Metro 10 To Green-light Smooth, Double-Decker Travel From Wadala To Thane, Borivli, Mira Road

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 17:09 IST

Mumbai Metro Green Line: When will Mumbai Metro Line 10 work begin? When will it be ready? What will be the route? The green line extension explained

The extension of the green line will run from Gaimukh (Thane) to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road). (File for representation)

Mumbai Metro Line 10: In what will complete the Metro maze for the city suburbs is the Mumbai Metro-10. An extension of Metro-4 (Wadala through Kasarvadavali to Gaimukh), the green line will link Thanes Gaimukh to Mira Roads Shivaji Chowk.

When will Mumbai Metro Line 10 work begin? When will it be ready? What will be the route? The green line extension explained.

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Mumbai Metro Line 10: What is the route? What are the stations?

The extension of the green line will run from Gaimukh (Thane) to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road), spanning approximately 9.2 km.

Stations:

Gaimukh Reti Bundar

Versova Chaar Phata

Kashimira

Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road)

What is the cost of Mumbai Metro Line 10?

Its estimated cost is Rs 4,476 crore.

Explained: Mumbai Now Maximum Metro City: How Many Lines Are Running On Which Routes? How Many More To Go?

What is the design of Mumbai Metro-10?

Features a double-decker elevated design above a road between Gaimukh and Fountain Hotel (approximately 4 km segment), reaching 20 meters height due to road-width constraints.

How far the Mumbai Metro Line 10 work reached? What is the deadline?

The approval was granted in September 2019 and foundation stone was laid the same year.

Construction hasnt begun due to environmental clearance issues. A consultant for clearances is being engaged.

A 36-month build period is projected, suggesting completion around 2027.

Mumbai Metro 10: Trains, frequency and tickets

Specific train sets, headway, and timings are yet undefined, as the line is still not under construction.

It is expected to reduce travel time on this corridor by 50-75%.

Specific fare, ticketing details, operating times, and frequency for Line 10 have not yet been announced.

Will Mumbai Metro-10 be connected to other lines?

It will integrate seamlessly with Metro 4 & 4A at Gaimukh.

Will connect with other public transport systems through existing metro lines.

No separate depot is needed; the Mogharpada depot (serving Lines 4, 4A, and future Line 11) will handle Line 10 operations.

Further future metro expansions (e.g., Lines 11, 12) are planned and will enhance the network connectivity even more.

How will Mumbai Metro-10 help Mumbai?

Railway expansion across Mumbai comprises many lines, with Line 10 forming part of the Green Line. The full Mumbai Metro is expected to exceed 523 km with 350 stations; most under-construction sections aim to be operational by 2027. Existing metro lines currently carry only 10% of the number of commuters compared to local trains, despite nearly 999 daily trips across four metro lines.

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Line 10 will significantly enhances cross-city connectivity  particularly for those commuting from Mira Road, Thane, and Borivali  offering alternatives to crowded suburban trains and improving commute efficiency once operational.

With Agency Inputs

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 17:05 IST

News cities  mumbai-news Mumbai Metro 10 To Green-light Smooth, Double-Decker Travel From Wadala To Thane, Borivli, Mira Road

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When Is Dahi Handi 2025 And Where To Catch The Biggest Celebrations In Mumbai?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:55 IST

Janmashtami, celebrating Lord Krishna's birth, is on August 16, 2025. Maharashtra's Dahi Handi, with human pyramids, is a highlight in Mumbai's Dadar, Vile Parle, and Lower Parel.

Where to watch Dahi Handi in Mumbai (Image: PTI)

Much awaited Hindu festival, Janmashtami, is all set to be celebrated on August 16. The day, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, Krishnashtami, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti and Sree Jayanthi, marks the birth of Lord Krishna.

This day is celebrated with great zeal across the country and every region has its own way of celebrating the day. One of the most iconic celebrations is Maharashtras Dahi Handi. As the festival nears, the state is filled with energetic vibes and enthusiasm.

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Dahi Handi practice is in full swing across Maharashtra as it involves the formation of a human pyramid to reach the handi tied above the ground. Check the most iconic spots in Mumbai to watch Dahi Handi 2025.

Dahi Handi 2025 Date

This year, Dahi Handi will be celebrated on Saturday, August 16. According to the Hindu calendar, the Ashtami tithi of Krishna Paksh in Bhadrapada month begins on August 15 at 11:49 pm and ends on August 16 at 9:34 pm.

The Nishita Puja Time will be observed on August 16 between 12:04 am and 12:47 am.

Dahi Handi 2025 Celebrations In Mumbai: Where To Watch

Dadar  Famous for massive crowds, celebrity appearances, and lively celebrations.

Vile Parle & Lower Parel  Known for attractive prize money and fierce Govinda team competition.

Jai Jawan Mitra Mandal, Lower Parel  Energetic vibes, live music, DJ performances, and grand prize-giving.

Bal Gopal Mitra Mandal, Lalbaug  Celebrated for intense competition and devotional fervor.

Sanskruti Yuva Pratishtha (Thane)  A thrilling blend of tradition and modern celebration.

Shri Krishna Janmashtami Utsav Mandal, Ghatkopar  A deeply spiritual, yet high-stakes event.

Sankalp Pratishthan, Worli  Known for bringing together top Govinda teams, vibrant music, and lively celebrations.

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Over the years, Dahi Handi has evolved into a competitive sport, particularly in Mumbais Dadar, Lalbaug, Parel, Worli, Bhandup, Mulund, Andheri and Goregaon. Teams called Govindas, create towering human pyramids. Each level of the pyramid is called a thar.

As the team moves closer to the pot, drum beats and Bollywood songs fill the air, fuelling excitement amongst onlookers.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 13:55 IST

News mumbai-news When Is Dahi Handi 2025 And Where To Catch The Biggest Celebrations In Mumbai?

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AMU Students Protest Against Fee Hike, Demand Rollback And Student Union Elections

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News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 07:43 IST

AMU students protest against the recent fee hike, demanding an immediate rollback and calling for long-pending student union elections to restore campus democracy.

AMU students protest against steep fee hike demanding immediate rollback.

The All India Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has appealed to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to urgently reverse the recent steep hike in annual fees at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), warning that the increase will prevent thousands of students from underprivileged backgrounds from accessing higher education.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Nasir Khehami, the Associations national convenor, said, The students have been courageously opposing what they see as an arbitrary, unjustified and exclusionary fee hike of up to 36-42 per cent imposed by the university administration." He added, For this session, the fee for some courses has increased by around 30-40 per cent. For example, the B.Lib course fee was Rs 16,000 last year and has been raised to over Rs 22,000."

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Khehami further noted that AMU Proctor Wasim Ali confirmed the fee increase ranged from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500 across courses, explaining that the hike was mainly to improve infrastructure and was a collective decision by various committees. However, he emphasised, this explanation does not lessen the crushing burden on the students, many of whom come from socially backward classes, working-class families and economically weaker sections, and are already struggling to meet their daily expenses, including basic meals."

AMU spokesperson Omar Peerzada said the university was taking prompt steps to address students concerns regarding the fee hike. The university has circulated a proforma on social media platforms, inviting continuing students to submit suggestions related to the fee increase. Prof M Asmer Beg, convener of the newly formed committee on the fee hike issue, has urged bona-fide students to file their demands through the proforma.

The Students Association also called on the government to investigate the alleged assault on protesters at the Bab-e-Syed Gate during a peaceful demonstration on Friday, when they were forcibly removed from the dharna site.

The Association highlighted the absence of an elected student union at AMU for the past seven years, accusing university authorities of suppressing peaceful protests due to no accountability and transparency," and said a communication gap is growing on campus without democratic student bodies.

Additionally, the Association urged the Union Education Minister to look into the dire conditions of AMU hostels, citing overcrowding, poor sanitation, and lack of hygiene.

ALSO READ: UP Govt Denies School Closure Plans, Says Low-Strength Schools Being Merged Nearby

Meanwhile, protests at the AMU campus entered their fifth day on Tuesday, with a large number of students boycotting classes. On Sunday, protesters gathered at Bab-e-Syed Gate for an indefinite dharna demanding the rollback of the fee hike, holding long-overdue student union elections that have been delayed for eight years, and calling for the removal of senior university officials allegedly responsible for the crisis.

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Several Opposition MPs have also written to AMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naima Khatoon, expressing concern over police and university actions against protesters last Friday, when students were offering collective Friday prayers at the dharna site.

(With inputs from PTI)

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 07:43 IST

News education-career AMU Students Protest Against Fee Hike, Demand Rollback And Student Union Elections

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Half-Day Schools On Aug 13, 14 For Hyderabad; 5-Day Holiday For Remaining Districts

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News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:19 IST

Telangana government has ordered half-day schools in the GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) area for today and tomorrow, that is, August 13 and 14.

Telangana schools get a total of five consecutive holidays. (File Photo)

The Indian Meteorological Department has announced that Telangana will experience very heavy rains for two days, Wednesday and Thursday. The government and officials are on alert and have declared holidays for schools in Warangal, Hanmakonda, Mahabubabad, Janagama, Yadadri, and Bhuvanagiri districts on these days.

In these districts, there will be a holiday on August 15 after the flag salute on Independence Day. Additionally, there is a Krishnashtami holiday on August 16, followed by a Sunday on August 17, resulting in a total of five consecutive holidays. However, students are advised to stay indoors as there are several hazards such as falling tree branches, power lines, and muddy roads. Authorities recommend that they stay home and study.

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Hyderabad is experiencing heavy rainfall, with torrents pouring down. Consequently, the Telangana government has ordered half-day schools in the GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) area for today and tomorrow, that is, August 13 and 14. Parents are advised to contact the school management for complete details and monitor school WhatsApp groups.

The rain, started at 10 am today and intensified as the hours passed. The rain will further increase after noon, with intermittent downpours throughout the afternoon. It will decrease somewhat in the evening but will resume after 9 pm and continue throughout the night. Heavy rain is expected on the August 14 as well.

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Hyderabad roads have already been damaged due to the rains, causing slow movement of vehicles. GHMC officials are advising people to leave their homes only in emergencies. IT employees are being encouraged to work from home if possible. CM Revanth Reddy reiterated this in yesterdays review.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Basic Education Council has announced the holiday schedule for this week, on account of several festivals. As per the new circular, schools in the state will be closed from August 14 to August 17, 2025. The state of UP will mark Chehlum on August 14, hence a public holiday has been declared for tomorrow.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:00 IST

News education-career Half-Day Schools On Aug 13, 14 For Hyderabad; 5-Day Holiday For Remaining Districts

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Homeschooled Student Solves 40-Year-Old Math Theory, Gets Direct PhD Admission

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 14:47 IST

Hannah has been offered a place in the University of Maryland's PhD programme in mathematics, bypassing the need for a high school diploma or college degree.

A professor named Ruixiang Zhang introduced Hannah to the Mizohata-Takeuchi conjecture. (sites.google.com/view/hannah-cairo)

Anyone can earn a PhD if they complete their degree and postgraduate studies, pass difficult entrance exams, and qualify at the top. However, a young woman who studied at home rather than attending school got the chance to pursue a PhD directly after solving a mathematical theory that had been a mystery for 40 years. Seventeen-year-old Hannah Cairo from the Bahamas achieved this remarkable feat.

Hannah disproved the MizohataTakeuchi conjecture, a longstanding problem in mathematics within the realm of harmonic analysis, which studies how waves behave on curved surfaces. Many mathematicians had attempted to solve it over the years, but Hannah proved it wrong and provided a clear example to demonstrate why.

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Born in the Bahamas and homeschooled by her parents, who encouraged her to delve deeply into subjects of interest, Hannah chose mathematics. By age 11, she had mastered calculus and went on to study university-level subjects such as linear algebra, differential equations, and topology. She read books, took online classes, and occasionally had tutoring.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, Hannah joined the Chicago Math Circle online, where she engaged with problems more advanced than typical schoolwork. This introduced her to the questions and ideas that professional mathematicians grapple with.

At 14, Hannah applied to the Berkeley Math Circle summer programme, stating on her application that she had already covered the advanced undergraduate math curriculuma true claim. Her application was accepted, allowing her to join Berkeleys concurrent enrolment program and take university-level classes alongside graduate students, all while still officially in school.

A professor named Ruixiang Zhang introduced Hannah to the Mizohata-Takeuchi conjecture, which predicted limits on how waves can focus on curved surfaces. While many students might have viewed it as a challenging puzzle, Hannah sought to create examples that defied the conjectures rules, despite frequently encountering dead ends. Although Zhang doubted some of her ideas, Hannah persisted.

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Her breakthrough came with a seemingly simple idea: instead of trying to work within the pattern of the conjecture, she thought of creating an entirely different wave pattern. She developed waves that extended rather than intersected. After thorough testing, her example showed that the conjectures predictions were completely incorrect.

In February, Hannah published her research paper on arXiv. Some experts were astonished and congratulated her, while others were sceptical, questioning how someone so young could achieve such a feat. Consequently, Hannah was offered a place in the University of Marylands PhD programme in mathematics, bypassing the need for a high school diploma or college degree.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 14:36 IST

News education-career Homeschooled Student Solves 40-Year-Old Math Theory, Gets Direct PhD Admission

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India Independence Day 2025: Easy English Speech Ideas For Students And School Kids

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 06:53 IST

Independence Day Speech In English: Explore easy and inspiring English speech ideas for school kids to confidently speak about Indias freedom and heroes this August 15.

India Independence Day 2025: When school kids prepare their speeches, they undergo a deeper study and understanding of India's freedom struggle. (AI generated image)

Independence Day Speech In English: Apart from cultural programs, dance performances and essay competitions, schools and various educational institutes also organise speeches for students to present during the Independence Day celebrations in India. When school kids prepare their speeches, they undergo a deeper study and understanding of Indias freedom struggle and the brave revolutionaries and political leaders who took part in it.

ALSO READ: Happy Independence Day 2025: 79+ Heartfelt Wishes, Images, Gif, Quotes, Slogans, Messages, Instagram & WhatsApp Status For 15th August

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Such speeches also help evoke a sense of pride for the motherland and a patriotic fervour that inspires efforts towards national welfare. Here are a few ideas for students to base their speeches on for respective assemblies and school competitions on the 79th Independence Day.

Topics For Speeches On Independence Day

A speech on Independence Day should naturally speak of Indias great freedom struggle and brave men and women who took part in it against the oppressive British colonial regime that ruled and dominated India for 200 years.

Students are advised to greet their principals and teachers clearly and respectfully at the beginning of their speech and emphasise words such as freedom, unity and respect for the country.

ALSO READ: Happy Independence Day 2025: Patriotic Quotes By Freedom Fighters Of India To Share As Wishes And Messages On 15th August

But the most important thing is the topic you choose for writing an Independence Day speech.

Historical Journey

A speech highlighting Indias journey towards attaining freedom and the great fight against the injustice and oppression faced by the citizens during British rule. You can recall the Revolt of 1857 that first challenged the cruel British regime with leaders such as Bahadur Shah Zafar, Rani Lakshmi Bai and Mangal Pandey awakening the nationalist spirit and inspiring a generation of courageous revolutionaries that came later.

ALSO READ: Independence Day 2025: How To Book Tickets To Watch PM Modis Red Fort Speech Live  StepByStep Guide

Hail Indias Freedom Fighters

While the Revolt of 1857 laid the groundwork for Indias civil resistance against the white narcissists, the freedom movement picked up real steam after the turn of the 20th century, when the great Mahatma Gandhi led the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Salt March (1930) and Quit India Movement (1942) and fearless leaders of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) like Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekar Azad raised the slogan of Inquilab Zindabad and gave the British a taste of their own medicine.

A speech focused on these freedom fighters and their incredible legacy would be a fitting tribute.

Highlighting Women Leaders

The contribution of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and other male political leaders of the freedom movement is celebrated widely.

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What remains underspoken, however, is the role played by women freedom fighters in pushing the country towards the light of the democratic and secular land we live in today.

Therefore, a speech can be made on the story and sacrifice of Rani Lakshmi Bai during the Revolt of 1857 and how she inspired several female political leaders and revolutionaries, including Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi and Aruna Asaf Ali.

About the Author Nibandh Vinod Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 16:00 IST

News education-career India Independence Day 2025: Easy English Speech Ideas For Students And School Kids

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KABUL, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Police have thwarted attempts to traffic illegal drugs, including heroin, and took into custody three alleged drug smugglers in the western Afghanistan Nimroz province, Provincial Director for Counter-Narcotics Mawlawi Faiz Mohammad Faizani said Wednesday.

The alleged drug smugglers, according to the official, were attempting to traffic illicit drugs, including 1.4 kg of heroin, 43 kg of opium poppy and other illegal objects via the Pul-i-Abrisham area outside the provincial capital Zaranj, have been foiled.

All three suspected drug smugglers have been detained and are being investigated, the official further said.

Earlier in similar operations, police reported the discovery of 343 kg of drugs, including opium poppy, heroin and methamphetamine during operations in the southern Uruzgan province on Friday. 
Kerala To Reward Grace Marks To School Students For Reading Activities

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:04 IST

Kerala will award grace marks to students who develop reading habits, with a dedicated period for books, newspapers, and related activities from the next academic year.

Kerala to award grace marks for students reading habits from next academic year. (Representational Image/Getty)

Keralas state-run schools will soon reward students with grace marks" for developing reading habits, starting from the next academic year, State General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced on Wednesday.

In a Facebook post, the minister said a dedicated period would be allocated for reading books, newspapers, and related activities as part of the initiative.

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Grace marks will be awarded from the next academic year to children who engage in activities that promote reading habits," Sivankutty said.

The programme will cater to students across all school levels. For those in grades one to four, weekly sessions will focus on age-appropriate reading activities. Students in grades five to twelve will participate in similar sessions, with a focus on newspaper reading and follow-up exercises, he explained.

To ensure effective implementation, teachers will be given training, and a handbook will be prepared to guide the reading-related activities.

Sivankutty added that the Education Department is also considering the inclusion of a reading-focused segment in Kalolsavam," the states annual school arts festival, to further encourage literacy and reading engagement among students.

This move aligns with Keralas ongoing efforts to strengthen reading culture in schools and promote language skills, while also integrating extracurricular activities into academic development.

ALSO READ: UP Govt Denies School Closure Plans, Says Low-Strength Schools Being Merged Nearby

Kerala Minister Denies Centres Claim Of School Closures, Calls It Baseless

Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty on Tuesday strongly rejected the Centres assertion that more than 200 government schools in the state have been shut down. Calling the claim baseless" and a deliberate attempt to tarnish Keralas image, the minister stressed that no government school has been closed in the state over the past nine years.

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In a Facebook post, Sivankutty clarified that the figures cited by the Centre actually refer to Multi Grade Learning Centres (MGLCs), which were launched in 1992 under the District Primary Education Programme (DPEP). These centres, he explained, could not function as schools after the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, prompting their phased closure.

The minister added that students from these centres were provided with free transportation and other facilities to attend nearby schools, ensuring uninterrupted access to education.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:00 IST

News education-career Kerala To Reward Grace Marks To School Students For Reading Activities

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UP Govt Denies School Closure Plans, Says Low-Strength Schools Being Merged Nearby

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News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 07:05 IST

UP Minister Sandeep Singh has assured that no schools will be shut down. Schools with fewer than 50 students are being temporarily merged.

UP Minister Sandeep Singh has assured that there will be no school closures, with small schools being temporarily merged to improve operations.

Uttar Pradesh Minister of State for Basic Education Sandeep Singh on Tuesday assured the Assembly that the state government has not decided to shut down any schools. His statement came in response to questions raised by Samajwadi Party legislators Pankaj Patel, Anil Pradhan and Prabhu Narayan Singh Yadav during Question Hour on the second day of the Monsoon Session.

Patel alleged that 88 lakh children had dropped out of school due to poor educational standards and expressed concern over the recent merging of schools.

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In reply, Singh said, No schools were being shut. However, institutions with fewer than 50 students were being merged with other schools located within a 1 km radius to ensure smooth teaching operations." He also pointed out that children are admitted to schools at the age of six, while those aged three to six are encouraged to attend Anganwadi centres for early learning.

According to the minister, primary schools in the state have 10,493,389 enrolled students, with 417,886 approved teaching posts, of which 338,590 are currently filled. Upper primary schools have 4,314,803 students, with 162,198 sanctioned posts and 120,860 teachers in service.

Earlier, Sandeep Singh, Basic Education Minister, at a press conference held at Lok Bhavan in Lucknow, said, Approximately 10,000 schools were identified for pairing, and this process, along with the unmerging of schools where necessary, will be completed within the coming week. Schools with fewer than 50 students are being considered for the pairing. No school has been permanently paired. If student numbers rise or seating becomes inadequate, classes will resume in the original buildings, with UDISE codes remaining unchanged.

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ALSO READ: DU Criticised For Faulty Reservation Roster, Panel Urges Recruitment For SC/ST Posts

The Minister added, all the schools [1,32,886] that we have under the Basic Education Department will still remain fully operational. If the distance of the schools which have been merged is more than 1 kilometre and the students are facing any kind of inconvenience, then all those schools will be unpaired again,".

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 07:05 IST

News education-career UP Govt Denies School Closure Plans, Says Low-Strength Schools Being Merged Nearby

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Ahead Of Bengal Polls, Real Issues Of Education, Jobs & Healthcare Take A Backseat To Symbolism

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:30 IST

Ignoring voters concerns, the poll narrative is increasingly being shaped by identity politicsdebates over Bengali pride (Asmita), religious symbolism, and cultural allegiance

Will voters prioritise symbolic issues, or will they demand answers on education, employment, and healthcare. (PTI)

With the West Bengal assembly elections scheduled for next year, political parties are gearing up for a fierce battle as chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who completes 15 years in office, faces the pressure of anti-incumbency.

Traditionally, voters evaluate a government based on its performance in areas like industrial growth, employment opportunities, education, and healthcareall critical indicators of a states development. However, this time, key developmental issues seem to be overshadowed by debates around identity and symbolism.

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Education Crisis: Students Leave Bengal in Droves

The education sector in Bengal is under considerable stress. Thousands of students who appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination are still waiting for their results due to the ongoing OBC reservation controversy. This delay has left many students confused and uncertain about their academic futures.

Families that can afford it are sending their children to colleges outside Bengal, especially for engineering and general undergraduate courses. However, those without financial means are left in a limbo.

Shibopriyo Roy, a recent Class 12 graduate, has taken admission in a college in Bengaluru. With the joint entrance results still pending, he, like many of his peers, had no choice but to look elsewhere.

Its not just Shibopriyo," said his mother, Radhika Roy, speaking to News18. Many children of his age who aspire to become doctors, lawyers, or engineers have been forced to leave Bengal for better opportunities. Who wants to send their children away? But it seems we have no choice."

The situation highlights a growing trend of brain drain, particularly among the youth. While this years migration is being driven by the OBC controversy, the outflow of talent has been unending for years, raising serious concerns about the quality and capacity of Bengals higher education system.

Employment Woes Continue

Job opportunities within Bengal remain limited, especially in high-growth sectors like IT. Many working professionals have moved to other cities for employment, often leaving families divided.

Mahima Choudhury, a central government employee based in Kolkata, shares the story of her husband, who works for an IT company in Hyderabad.

He comes home on Saturday and leaves on Sunday night," she told News18. Its painful to see our son growing up without his father. But what can we do? There are no jobs here."

She adds that she is not alone. Many of my friends husbands also live and work outside Bengal."

The lack of employment opportunities for skilled professionals is another pressing issue likely to be raised during the upcoming election campaign.

Healthcare Remains a Struggle

Healthcare infrastructure in Bengal is also under scrutiny. Government hospitals face severe overcrowding, while private hospitals remain inaccessible to the majority due to high costs. As a result, many residents struggle to get timely and affordable medical care.

Development Vs Identity Politics

While education, employment, and healthcare are fundamental concerns, they appear to be taking a backseat in the current political discourse. Instead, the election narrative is increasingly being shaped by identity politicsdebates over Bengali pride (Asmita), religious symbolism, and cultural allegiance.

Discussions around who is a greater devotee of Ma Durga or Ma Kali, and which party is more aligned with Bengali values," are dominating headlines. Issues like the Special Intensive Revision exercise of the voter list and polarisation strategies have further diverted focus from core governance challenges.

What Should Matter?

Experts argue that while demographic changes and cultural identity are important, they should not come at the cost of developmental dialogue.

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Of course, safeguarding Bengali identity is important," an analyst told News18. But can we ignore the fact that our children are leaving the state for education, our professionals are working elsewhere for lack of jobs, and people are struggling to access healthcare?"

With elections approaching, the big question remains: Will voters prioritise symbolic issues, or will they demand answers on education, employment, and healthcarethe true pillars of development?

About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 09:30 IST

News elections Ahead Of Bengal Polls, Real Issues Of Education, Jobs & Healthcare Take A Backseat To Symbolism

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Inside The Trump-Putin Alaska Venue Scramble: Why A Military Base Was The Last Resort

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:36 IST

After Alaska was agreed on for the TrumpPutin summit, organisers faced a bigger challenge: securing a venue in the middle of tourist season and under strict summit protocols

Trump and Putin will hold talks on August 15 to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. (AP/File)

The first meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in more than four years will take place in Alaska on Friday. But before the handshakes, organisers faced an unexpected hurdle: finding a venue. The summit, agreed only last week after Trumps envoy met Putin in Moscow, sent US and Russian officials scrambling for a suitable site. In peak tourist season in Alaska, most large venues were booked, security needs were uncompromising, and the White House wanted to avoid awkward optics. In the end, those pressures left them with just one choice  a military base in Anchorage.

What Triggered The Scramble?

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US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on Tuesday (local time) that the idea for the summit came directly from Vladimir Putin. President Donald Trump, she added, agreed to the meeting to see what he has in mind" and intends to brief European Union leaders, NATO, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on any potential deal. The proposal emerged shortly after US envoy Steve Witkoffs visit to Moscow last week, prompting a frantic search for a venue that could meet G7-level security requirements, allow private leader-to-leader talks, and accommodate full press operations  all on an exceptionally tight timeline.

Why Was Venue Hunting In Alaska Uniquely Hard?

Alaska in August is packed with tourists, and most large venues that could host hundreds of delegates, security staff, and journalists were already full. On top of that, a USRussia summit demands facilities that can be sealed off for motorcades, equipped with secure meeting rooms, and supported by robust communications networks. US officials explored options in Juneau, Anchorage, and Fairbanks, but many civilian sites, including several in Anchorage, were either unavailable or could not meet these security and logistical requirements.

When news of the planned meeting leaked, a few prominent Alaskans offered their homes through Trumps allies, but private residences could not provide the accreditation systems, multi-layered perimeters, or technical infrastructure needed for a meeting of this scale. In the end, Anchorage remained the only city with a site that could work.

How Did Anchorage Become The Only Viable City?

By early this week, organisers concluded that only Anchorage, Alaskas largest city and main air transport hub, could meet the summits requirements. Within Anchorage, only Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), a combined US Army and Air Force installation on the citys northern edge, ticked every box for the meeting: controlled airspace, secure and reinforced facilities, lockable perimeters, and space to manage both motorcade routes and press operations. CNN reported, citing two White House officials, that this is where the two men will meet on Friday.

Why A US Military Base?

The White House initially hoped to avoid the political optics of welcoming the Russian leader to a US military installation, CNN reported. But in the end, security needs outweighed public relations concerns. Civilian sites couldnt match JBERs layered perimeter, restricted airspace, screened access points, and pre-cleared facilities for a planned translator-only segment between the two presidents.

Why Not Europe, The UAE Or Hungary?

A European venue  Vienna or Geneva  was ruled out after the Kremlin balked at hosting the meeting in an ICC member state, CNN reported. While Russia rejects ICC jurisdiction, the warrant issued for Putin in 2023 created both legal and optics risks. Putin suggested the UAE as entirely suitable," but the White House preferred to avoid another long Middle East trip after Trumps May visit. That narrowed the options to Hungary, where PM Viktor Orban is close to both leaders, and the United States. American officials told CNN they were pleased and somewhat surprised when the Kremlin agreed to US soil, and, as some noted, to land that once belonged to the Russian Empire.

What Does Alaska Symbolise Beyond Logistics?

Alaska was colonised by Russia from the 18th century until Czar Alexander II sold it to the US in 1867 for $7.2 million. It later became a Cold War forward edge of missile defence, radar outposts, and intelligence gathering, East meets West" literally and strategically. Russian state agency Tass noted it would be the first-ever visit by a Russian leader to Alaska.

Will Zelenskyy Be There?

While Ukraine will be absent from Fridays talks, Trump is scheduled to speak with Zelenskyy by phone on Wednesday, in a call that will also include European leaders. The Kremlin has long resisted a direct PutinZelenskyy meeting until a peace deal is ready to sign. Putin said last week he was not against meeting Zelenskyy," but that certain conditions need to be created" and were still a long way off."

The summit will also mark Putins first visit to the United States since 2015, when he attended the UN General Assembly in New York. As the US is not a member of the International Criminal Court, it is under no obligation to act on the ICCs 2023 arrest warrant against him.

What Format Will Trump And Putin Use?

The White House is calling it a listening session" and feel-out" meeting. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, framed Trumps approach on Tuesday: the president wants to look Putin face to face one-on-one" and make a personal assessment. The White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said a translator-only segment is part of the plan."

Whats On The Table And What Are The Red Lines?

Trump has sounded exasperated with Russias continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities. Kyiv has agreed to a ceasefire as a first step. Moscows ceasefire asks, which Zelenskyy rejects as nonstarters, include items such as withdrawing troops from the four regions Russia illegally annexed in 2022, halting mobilisation, and freezing Western arms deliveries. For any broader peace, Putin demands Kyiv cede the annexed regions and Crimea, renounce NATO, limit the size of its armed forces, and recognise Russian as an official language alongside Ukrainian. Zelenskyy insists any deal must include robust security guarantees to deter future aggression, adding on Saturday: Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier."

On Monday, Trump said: Therell be some land swapping going on To the good, for the good of Ukraine. Good stuff, not bad stuff. Also, some bad stuff for both." European officials have been probing what peace parameters" Putin may have floated via Witkoffs Moscow visit; some expressed frustration at the lack of clarity so far.

Who Else Is In The Loop?

Rubio spoke with Sergey Lavrov about certain aspects of preparation," per Russias foreign ministry. Trump will hear from European leaders in a virtual meeting on Wednesday (arranged by Germany) to gather views before Friday, and has vowed to call them, and Zelenskyy, immediately after the summit.

Why Is This Meeting Consequential For Both Trump And Putin?

For Putin, the Alaska summit is a diplomatic breakthrough after years of relative isolation. It offers a platform to cement Russias battlefield gains, keep Ukraine out of NATO, and prevent Western troops from being stationed there. He believes time is on Moscows side as Ukrainian forces come under pressure along the front.

For Trump, it is a chance to assess Putin directly and determine whether a serious path toward a settlement exists. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Sunday that Trumps goal is to gauge if Putin is serious" and if so, the next phase would involve Ukraine and European partners.

Ukraine and European Union leaders have warned against any deal that excludes Kyiv. As Zelenskyy put it, Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace." EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas reinforced that message: International law is clear: All temporarily occupied territories belong to Ukraine."

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The Bottom Line

Alaska offered history and symbolism, but it was the logistics, not the lore, that decided it. Tourist-season sell-outs, infrastructure limits, the ICC complication for Europe, the White Houses no-repeat-Middle-East preference, and the need for SCIF-grade spaces and tight perimeters meant Anchorage by elimination. The stage that almost didnt have a stage" is now set.

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: August 13, 2025, 10:14 IST

News explainers Inside The Trump-Putin Alaska Venue Scramble: Why A Military Base Was The Last Resort

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...
Mans Post On Migrant Workers Amid Stray Dog Debate Viral: Why Internet Rounded Up 'Elites'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:35 IST

Several actors including Jahnvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan who have spoken in favour of stray dogs have been trolled online for their "privileged" opinions.

Jahnvi Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Tiger Shroff among other Bollywood celebrities have been panned for their "privileged" opinion on stray dog debate. (X screengrab)

If you have just logged in to the Internet, welcome. A lot has unfolded in the past 24 hours. The Supreme Court ordered the removal of stray dogs from the streets of the capital city while hearing a suo motu case against the canines attacking children. This has led to a national debate that doesnt seem to cease any time soon. One camp believes that SCs order to round up stray dogs is a short-sighted and inhumane decision, one that is impractical. Where will the stray dogs go? Questioned a large number of netizens who strongly believe that lack of shelter and space would eventually deplete their population in this cruel" and enforced crackdown on the canines.

The other side argued that the stray dogs were a menace to society and the rising case of dog bites, some even leading to horrific deaths, put especially the vulnerable, kids and the elderly, at most risk. The human lives trumped the animal lives, they said.

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But what about the migrant workers, delivery drivers, or BPO employees who return home late regularly? A mans post on X, extending his empathy towards workers toiling on the streets at night, has resonated with many.

You Dont Realise The Consequences"

X user, who goes by the handle @Prithvi10_, wrote: People who work till late into the night are majorly migrants who work at restaurants / bars who finish their job and return home from narrow lanes, food delivery boys, there are even BPO employees who walk home a lil from their dropping point (sic)." He added that these people arent well-to-do and have to fight off the strays daily. The delivery persons put their lives at risk by speeding on their bikes to fend off the chasing strays.

Why should they go through this. These are just hardly 2-3 examples," the user wrote before stating that there are videos of children being attacked by the animals on the loose and many of those incidents lead to deaths.

Also Read: Why Supreme Courts Order To Remove Stray Dogs Has Left The Internet Divided

He added that the workers who were at constant mercy of stray dogs did not enjoy the privilege of having secure jobs, and one unfortunate attack on them would mean someone else would replace their job, leaving them with no salary to run home. Concluding his now-viral post, the user remarked that the privileged were guarded by their cars when they stepped out to smoke late at night, and they were in no position to realise the consequences of defending the presence of strays on the streets and in society.

Reactions

A Reddit user, agreeing with the viral post, remarked that they had spent 20 years around pet dogs and they still took the necessary precautions, including muzzles and leashes, to safeguard others as dogs naturally possessed animalistic instincts". So an unsupervised stray was prone to attacking unprovoked.

Im a dog lover and and a I own 3 dogs. I can without any doubt say that strays are not just a problem for the society but for their own self too. They are fried up in summers, they freeze in winters, they reproduce within themselves(incest) and are born with disabilities too. Apart from feeding them no one cares for them (sic)."

For the strays no one cares, they are a ticking time bomb always. The SC order is justified and in the benefit of all. The only concern is that the authorities actually should care for the strays once they are moved to a shelter (sic)."

The Reddit commenter also urged people to refrain from calling it animal cruelty". They added that it did concern them what the future of these strays would be at the shelter and if they would be looked after well.

Elites Know Nothing"

Dismissing their Instagram protest as performative, many on X panned Bollywood celebrities for sharing a forwarded template in support of the stray dogs. The prevailing argument was that Bollywood celebrities, shielded and insulated, lacked a true understanding of ground-level realities.

They call it a menace. We call it a heartbeat."

Gated society elites preach "love street dogs" because theyve never had a pack chase them at midnight. Dump 20 outside their villas and watch that love evaporate..bc PR started pic.twitter.com/rfXox9PqgS Wellu (@Wellutwt) August 12, 2025

Gated society elites preach love street dogs" because theyve never had a pack chase them at midnight. Dump 20 outside their villas and watch that love evaporate.." a user remarked.

Animal Rights Activities, Dog Lovers

Animal welfare advocates have emphasised that extensive sterilisation programs, regular vaccination campaigns, and community feeding centres offer more compassionate and sustainable solutions for managing stray populations.

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The real fix? Large-scale sterilisation programs, regular vaccination drives, community feeding zones, and adoption campaigns. Not punishment. Not imprisonment."

John Abraham, Sanya Malhotra, and Bhumi Pednekar were among the many celebrities who have reacted strongly to the SC order.

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: August 13, 2025, 13:32 IST

News explainers Mans Post On Migrant Workers Amid Stray Dog Debate Viral: Why Internet Rounded Up 'Elites'

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 Proposed The Trump-Putin Meeting And Why Is It Happening In Alaska?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 10:31 IST

The plan evolved when US envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin in Moscow in early August.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his American counterpart Donald Trump have spoken twice since Trumps return to the White House to discuss the Ukraine conflict. (IMAGE: AFP)

Will Donald Trump be able to play peacemaker between Russia and Ukraine and stop the war? A meeting in Alaska, that was once Russian land, between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will decide the answer to this question. The world is waiting for the meeting that could hold key to the future of tariffs that Trump has slapped on countries including India, for buying Russian oil.

What Led To The Trump-Putin Meeting?

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A confluence of strategic overtures and diplomatic maneuvering paved the way for the TrumpPutin summit. The initial foundation was laid when President Trump, sticking to his campaign pledge to quickly end the Russia-Ukraine war, held a pivotal phone conversation with Putin on February 12, 2025  lasting over an hour and prompting immediate" peace negotiations.

This set in motion high-level talks, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaging with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov in Saudi Arabia, establishing groundwork for future dialogue.

The plan evolved when US envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin in Moscow in early August. The Kremlin and the White House both acknowledged that the idea of a summit in principle" had been agreed on  but with differing emphasis on who initiated it.

Meanwhile, CNN reported that the suggestion actually came from Putin himself; State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said, It was Putin who suggested this meeting."

The White House described the summit as a listening exercise," aimed at giving President Trump a direct opportunity to hear Putins perspective on ending the conflict.

Why Was Alaska Chosen As The Venue For Trump-Putin Meeting?

Alaska was ultimately chosen as the host site  not Switzerland, Turkey, or the UAE  partly due to its symbolic ties to Russia and its legal positioning outside of ICC jurisdiction, with Puting being accused of war crimes.

Anchorage, Alaska, emerged as the agreed-upon venue for the TrumpPutin summit largely due to practicality, symbolism, and strategic considerations. According to CNN, US officials initially explored various venues  including Hungary and major global hubs  but Anchorage proved uniquely viable. Despite hopes to avoid holding the meeting on American military soil, organisers ultimately selected Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson. The base offered the necessary security infrastructure, given the compressed timeline and the challenges of accommodating both leaders and their entourages.

A CNN report states that, during peak tourist season, Anchorage was the only city in Alaska that could realistically host the summit, and the military base was the sole facility meeting stringent security requirements.

Symbolism played a significant role as well. The location lies near Russia across the Bering Strait, making it a mutually inconvenient" yet geopolitically neutral meeting ground. As The Guardian notes, Alaska naturally distances the summit from Ukraine and European capitals, aligning with Putins interest in a private dialogue focused on sanctions, NATO boundaries, and broader strategic themes  not solely the war.

Historically, Alaska has been a flashpoint in USRussian relations, from its sale in 1867 to Cold War military importance, and its geographic proximity even allows viewing Russian soil from Alaskan islands.

What Can We Expect From This Meeting?

President Trump is approaching the Alaska summit primarily as a listening exercise," aiming to assess Putins intentions directly rather than engage in formal negotiations. As State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce put it: the meeting isnt about a grand bargain  its q chance to establish facts and define what is possible going forward." Trump wants to determine whether Putin is serious about peace, reports say.

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Trump has been candid about his expectations: he believes hell know within the first two minutes" whether a deal is feasible, summarising the possibility this way: lots of luck, keep fighting," or, we can make a deal."

The focus remains on ending the bloodshed in Ukraine. Trump stated, Youve got to end this war. Youve got to end it."

About the Author Pragati Ratti Copy Editor Pragati is a News Editor at news18.com and heads the Business and Viral sections. Having worked with the breaking news team at News18 in the past, Pragati now manages the day to day functioning of the Viral and... Read More Pragati is a News Editor at news18.com and heads the Business and Viral sections. Having worked with the breaking news team at News18 in the past, Pragati now manages the day to day functioning of the Viral and... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 10:31 IST

News explainers Who Proposed The Trump-Putin Meeting And Why Is It Happening In Alaska?

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...
Why Indias Voter Lists Are Still Hard For Computers To ReadAnd What It Means For Democracy

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:30 IST

If allowed, machine-readable electoral rolls could be a crucial step towards greater transparency and trust in Indias democratic process

In a democracy of nearly a billion voters, that level of transparency could transform how citizens, parties, and watchdogs safeguard the ballot. Representational pic/PTI

The demand for machine-readable electoral rolls is not new for the Election Commission of India (ECI). Congress made this demand in 2018, but the poll body rejected it, backed by the Supreme Court. The same demand is being raised again.

But what exactly is a machine-readable file, and how could it help solve problems related to verifying fake voters?

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A machine-readable file is a digital data format that computer programs can easily process, analyse, and verify without human helpoften in just a few minutes. These files are structured, with each piece of information clearly labelled and consistently organised within a dataset.

This contrasts with unstructured formats like PDFs or scanned images, which typically require manual or error-prone optical character recognition (OCR) to extract usable informationthe data currently shared by the ECI.

In simpler terms, anyone with basic computer knowledge can upload a machine-readable file and run commands to analyse it.

This means many eyes could look for fake votersthose with no sensible name or relation nameand duplicate votersthose with identical details. Although it would still be difficult to detect dead voters.

Machine-reading and mass scrutiny could significantly help the poll body clean the electoral roll faster and more efficientlyafter proper verification, of course.

What can machine-readable files do?

If the voter list were machine-readable, even ordinary citizens could easily analyse patterns from any constituency in the country.

For instance, if I am a voter from the New Delhi assembly seat and want to check how many Shanti Devi(s) are registered in the constituency, I could do so easily. I could also filter the details to see how many of them are, say, 55 years old and have Mukesh Yadav as the husbands name. If this person has multiple registrations, I could highlight that. If similar data were available for, say, Mumbai, I could check if the same combination is registered there as well.

Of course, there can be valid voters with identical details, but that is where data with political parties and ECIincluding imagescan be used.

Currently, all checks have to be done manually. The ECI does have sophisticated systems, but they are not available in the public domain or for political parties.

Looking for a Shanti Devi among one booth, a few thousand voters, or an entire assembly can be done manually. But for the worlds largest electorate, involving 96.88 crore voters as of February 2024, this becomes a monumental task.

Rahul Gandhi, while sharing the claim of one lakh vote chori", highlighted that the poll body provides seven feet of paper for one assembly, and it took a team of about 40 people around six months to catch fake voters.

Enrolment in the voter list is a statutory right. Claims or objections on draft rolls can be filed by citizens or parties using Form 7, submitted via booth-level agents. These requests are investigated by booth-level officers, with final decisions made by the Electoral Registration Officer.

Typically, a month is allowed between the draft rolls publication and the final rolls release. Given Gandhis claim on time and manpower constraints, raising objections against widespread fake voters appears difficult.

Why are such files demanded, and why are they denied?

The current data shared by the ECI does not allow automated comparison, validation, or auditing of electoral rolls because it lacks consistent formatting. This makes detecting duplicate entries difficult. Moreover, the demand is important because obscure anomalies can only be spotted through computational analysis.

The ECI has rejected Congresss demands for a machine-readable voter list, citing the legal framework and past Supreme Court rulings.

In 2018, senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath moved the Supreme Court, claiming electoral rolls showed multiple entries of the same individuals, up to 36 times, based on data sourced from a private website. The ECIs counteraffidavit acknowledged these discrepancies and agreed to delete or take corrective actions in the rolls.

However, the court found no merit in the claim. The court ruled that Nath cannot claim a right to have the draft electoral roll published on the website in a searchable mode", and it is the ECIs prerogative to decide the format in which the draft roll is published.

According to the ECI manual, the draft roll should be made public on the chief electoral officers website in an image PDF format, text mode, with no photographs.

Machine-readable files, the ECI fears, could lead to potential manipulation and a loss of voter confidence.

Change in Bihar format raising eyebrows

The Bihar draft roll issued on August 1 was mostly searchable and machine-readable but was replaced by a larger file unreadable by AI tools after the claims from Rahul Gandhi were made. The poll body has issued no statement about the change.

Tests by News18 using ChatGPT and Perplexity showed the earlier file was searchable with no duplicate entries found, while the current file yielded no extractable text and was described as a text dump from a PDF scan". OCR on the Bagaha constituency PDF produced false duplicates due to unclear text.

Why is AI struggling to analyse this data?

B Sundaresan, a data expert from Bengaluru, explained that PDFs are often not machine-readable.

When Rahul Gandhi says OCR cant be done, he means the PDF is of poor quality. For example, software cant easily convert a pay slip PDF to Excel because PDFs come in many formats, like newspapers or pay slips. Though the data format inside stays the same, computers find it hard to interpret," he said.

He added that the type of PDF matters. Theres no standard format, so you cant always extract the same information the same way. You can search a pay slip saved as a text PDF, but electoral rolls scanned as images cant be searched," said Sundaresan.

Regarding artificial intelligence scanning voter lists, he said AI itself isnt the problem, but poor-quality scans limit effectiveness. Large Language Models like ChatGPT cant extract data accurately from PDFs without OCR, and OCR needs clear documents. Handwritten or low-quality scans, like village muster rolls, will fail."

M Priyamvada, a Pune-based data analyst, noted PDFs arent true documents like Word files but sets of instructions for painting pixels. Scanned PDFs have no actual textjust imagesso machines rely on error-prone OCR," she said.

What can change with machine-readable data?

If allowed, machine-readable electoral rolls could be a crucial step towards greater transparency and trust in Indias democratic process.

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Allowing electoral rolls in a standardised machine-readable format would not only speed up the removal of fake or duplicate entries but also open the process to unprecedented public scrutiny.

In a democracy of nearly a billion voters, that level of transparency could transform how citizens, parties, and watchdogs safeguard the ballot. The real question is whether the Election Commission and Indias political system are ready to trust their people with that power by taking care of the legal, privacy, and technical challenges.

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: August 13, 2025, 08:30 IST

News explainers Why Indias Voter Lists Are Still Hard For Computers To ReadAnd What It Means For Democracy

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...
11 Devotees Killed In Accident On Way Back From Rajasthan's Khatu Shyam Temple

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:32 IST

According to the reports, several people have been immediately referred to a hospital in Jaipur.

10 people lost their lives in an accident in Rajasthan while they were returning from Khatu Shyam temple. | (Representative Image)

In a tragic incident, 11 devotees lost their lives on their way from Rajasthans Khatu Shyam temple. Among the injured, nine people have been referred to Jaipur for treatment, and three are being treated in the local district hospital.

The accident occurred between a passenger pick-up vehicle and a trailer truck.

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Responding to the incident, SP Sagar Rana said, Information was received about devotees coming from Khatu Shyam temple who met with an accident and till now, 10 casualties have occurred. Nearly seven to eight people have been referred to SMS Hospital in Jaipur."

#WATCH | Rajasthan | SP Sagar Rana says, An information was received about devotees coming from Khatu Shyam temple who met with an accident and till now, 10 casualties have occurred. Nearly 7-8 people have been referred to SMS Hospital in Jaipur" pic.twitter.com/v747iulPjK ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2025

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Taking to X, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed sorrow over the sudden loss of lives in the accident of devotees.

The news of the loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured. May God grant a place at His divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured," he 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

Location : Rajasthan, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 06:59 IST

News india 11 Devotees Killed In Accident On Way Back From Rajasthan's Khatu Shyam Temple

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14-Year-Old Raped, Killed By Cousin Hours After Tying Rakhi, Body Found Hanging

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 15:34 IST

33-year-old man raped and murdered his minor cousin after she tied Rakhi on his wrist. He staged it as suicide, but police found evidence.

Two nine-year-old girls were allegedly gang-raped by two men. (Representative image)

Rakshabandhan, a festival where a brother promises to protect his sister, was shamed after a cousin allegedly raped and murdered his minor sister hours after she tied Rakhi on his wrist. The disturbing news was reported from Uttar Pradeshs Auraiya. As per the police, after killing the girl, he hung her body from a noose to make it look like suicide.

As per a report by NDTV, after celebrating Rakshabandhan on Saturday, 33-year-old Surjeet went back to his home upon consuming a lot of alcohol. He raped the girl while she was asleep and then killed her. As per the police, the girls father was asleep in the next room but couldnt hear anything.

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The girls body was found hanging the next day.

After the gruesome killing, Surjeet started misleading the investigation. Police got suspicious when he did not let any other family member answer the questions.

As the police reached the murder spot, they were sure it was not a suicide case because there were bloodstains in several places. Her body was sent for a post-mortem, which confirmed rape.

NDTV further reported that Surjeet was held and he confessed to the crime during interrogation.

Schoolgirl Gang-Raped In Odisha

In another disturbing incident, a 15-year-old girl was allegedly raped by five people at a village in Odishas Kendrapara district. As per the police, one of the accused is her close relative. As per a PTI report, the police have arrested the 29-year-old relative, the husband of the class 10 students paternal aunt, under various sections of the BNS and POCSO Act.

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The police further said, the accused was remanded to judicial custody after a local court rejected his bail application. Police also detained four other accused who also video recorded the rape.

As per the girls complaint, the relative visited their residence on Raksha Bandhan on August 9, and took her to a deserted place where she was gang-raped.

Location : Auraiya, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 07:07 IST

News india 14-Year-Old Raped, Killed By Cousin Hours After Tying Rakhi, Body Found Hanging

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Blindfolds, Tied Hands, Pizza & Paranthas: Shimla School Kid Recounts Kidnap Ordeal

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:32 IST

After locking the children on his fourth floor, Sumit Sood bought them pizza, let them use the washroom, and later served Maggi in an apparent attempt to keep them calm

Sumit Sood served the children paranthas and later bread omelette. (News18 Hindi)

Blindfolded, hands tied with rope, and mouths sealed with tape  this was how three Bishop Cotton School students spent hours in captivity after being kidnapped from outside their Shimla school. Inside a locked fourth-floor room of a Kotkhai house, the accused, Sumit Sood, tried to keep them calm by offering pizza, Maggi, paranthas, and bread omelette. He even asked them to fetch a carrom board, though they were not allowed to leave.

The child, a class 6 student named Angad recounted that he and his friends were accosted by Sumit Sood as they exited the school gate. Sood, acting alone, persuaded them to get into his car. The kidnapper did not harm them but blindfolded them near Adventure Park, Kufri, before driving them to Kotkhai.

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After confining the children on the fourth floor of his house, Sood went to the market to buy pizza and served it to them. During this time, he allowed them to use the washroom and later offered Maggi as well.

Angad described that when the accused took a different route instead of heading towards Mall Road, one of them pointed out that it was the wrong way. At that moment, Sood threatened them by showing a gun and drove them away. The child said the accused tied their hands with a rope and later asked for his mothers phone number before calling her.

Angad added that the accused also blindfolded them and covered their mouths with tape. On Sunday morning, he served them paranthas and later bread omelette. During this time, the accused even asked them to bring a carrom board.

Later, police reached the spot, broke open the door, and rescued the children. The child shared he remembered God throughout the ordeal. At first, he was not afraid, but fear set in later.

The childs uncle, Pappu Lathar, said the kidnappers initially held the children at gunpoint and demanded their home numbers. When the childs mother answered the call, the kidnappers threatened her, saying, We have kidnapped your child. We have him at gunpoint. We want money. Do not switch off the phone. Do not tell the police."

Angads uncle said Himachal Police and locals cooperated fully in the rescue. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh and several Haryana leaders stayed in touch, assuring the family that everything would be fine and the children would return safely.

He said the first call from the kidnapper was to Angads mother, who initially could not believe it. The family then contacted the school and learned that three children were missing. He added that Angads elder brother studies in Class 9 at the same school, and four other children from their family are alumni.

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Shimla Police swiftly resolved the case, tracing the children to a residence in Kotkhai, nearly 80 km from the city, and rescuing them unharmed. The suspect, 30-year-old Sumit Sood, was taken into custody and later presented before the court, which sent him to police remand until August 13.

According to the police, Sood kidnapped the three children from the 160-year-old Bishop Cotton School on Saturday. He lured them with the promise of dropping them at Mall Road but instead took them to Kotkhai. He had abducted the children to extort money after losing Rs 4050 lakh in the share market. Sood had also studied at the same school.

Location : Shimla, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:16 IST

News india Blindfolds, Tied Hands, Pizza & Paranthas: Shimla School Kid Recounts Kidnap Ordeal

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SAO PAULO, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least nine people were killed and seven others injured on Tuesday in a blast at an explosives factory in Quatro Barras, a municipality in southern Brazil's Parana state, according to local authorities.

The explosion occurred in the morning at the Enaex Brasil company's facilities in an industrial area near Curitiba, capital of the state.

Enaex Brasil released a statement with a list of the nine victims, expressing its condolences and offering to cooperate with the investigation. The seven injured were treated at the scene, the company added.

Brazil's Ministry of Labor has launched an investigation into safety conditions at the company's headquarters.

Parana Public Security Secretary Hudson Teixeira said at a press conference that the victims' bodies were so badly damaged that DNA tests will be needed to confirm their identities.

According to Teixeira, the blast occurred as a group of employees was handling explosive materials that were about to be loaded onto a truck. 
Casualties Of Parliament Disruptions: MPs Losing Out On Opportunities In Question Hour, Zero Hour

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 07:14 IST

Out of 210 Zero Hour submissions made by MPs in the Rajya Sabha this monsoon session, only 5 could be taken up

While Question Hour from 11 am to noon in both houses gives them a chance to get a minister to respond to their questions, the Zero Hour immediately thereafter gives them a chance to raise 'Issues of Urgent Public Importance'. (File pic/PTI)

For young MPs and old, Question Hour and Zero Hour are critical to raise questions that concern the people of their constituency or state.

While Question Hour from 11 am to noon in both houses gives them a chance to get a minister to respond to their questions, the Zero Hour immediately thereafter gives them a chance to raise Issues of Urgent Public Importance". Many MPs even have to wait a year or more to get a chance in the Zero Hour.

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But when Parliament does not function normally, as has been the case in the monsoon session so far, Question Hour and Zero Hour are the first casualties of disruptions. Out of 210 Zero Hour submissions made by MPs in the Rajya Sabha this session, only five could be taken up. Out of 210 starred questions listed in Question Hour, just 14 could be taken up.

Many MPs, both from the ruling NDA and the opposition, that CNN-News18 spoke with over the last few days, rued how they had lost out on a chance to raise critical questions in Parliament, which remained in limbo except for the 32-hour discussion on Operation Sindoor.

A matter of time

Sample this: Rajya Sabha in this session had the opportunity to take up 210 starred questions, 210 Zero Hour submissions and 210 special mentions on various important issues so far.

But, due to continued disruptions, the Rajya Sabha was able to take up only 14 starred questions, 5 Zero Hour submissions and 17 special mentions. Because of the disruptions, we have lost 62 hours and 25 minutes of this session," the Chair noted on Monday.

Speaker and deputy chairmans pleas

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On August 8, as soon as Question Hour began in Lok Sabha, it was rocked by disruptions from the opposition on the special intensive revision (SIR) issue. Speaker Om Birla pleaded to the house: Honourable members, I am requesting you again that Question Hour is an important time. Please let the house sit. Your sloganeering is not in accordance with parliamentary traditions. The people of the country are watching this. I am requesting you again, this Question Hour is important."

On August 11, the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh Narayan Singh, also appealed to the members to let the Zero Hour function. I would request you to let Zero Hour runallow honourable members to avail Zero Hour and Question Hour. You know that both of these are very important instruments for honourable members. These are very important instruments. You dont want these to be discussed?" he said, before adjourning the house.

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: August 13, 2025, 07:15 IST

News india Casualties Of Parliament Disruptions: MPs Losing Out On Opportunities In Question Hour, Zero Hour

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Chinese Foreign Minister To Visit India Next Week, To Hold Talks With NSA Ajit Doval

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Shobhit Gupta



Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 16:28 IST

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit India to discuss border issues with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval before PM Modi's trip to China for the SCO summit.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian NSA Ajit Doval (File)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit India this week and will hold talks with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on the larger border issue between the two countries

The visit of the Chinese leader comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis scheduled visit to Tianjin in China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, his first trip to the country since 2018, where he will be joined by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also attended the SCO ministerial meetings earlier in June this year.

Jaishankar had also met Jinping in Beijing and briefed him on recent developments in India-China relations while emphasising the importance of continued leadership guidance in advancing bilateral ties.

Relations between both countries stabilised gradually after the May 2020 intrusion by Chinese troops in Ladakh, which eventually led to the Galwan clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers and several on the Chinese side.

After tense ties for over four years, PM Modi met Jinping on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit at Kazan on October 23, 2024, marking the revival of bilateral ties between the two Asian giants.

Just ahead of the meeting, then, India and China had agreed to restart patrols in the Depsang area of Eastern Ladakh.

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The two leaders had welcomed the agreement for complete disengagement and resolution of issues that arose in 2020 in the India-China border areas. PM Modi had underscored the importance of properly handling differences and disputes and not allowing them to disturb peace and tranquillity.

In June, both countries agreed to resume direct air services, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for pilgrims, and take steps towards visa facilitation, and also share data on transnational rivers. Last month, the Indian Embassy in China said India is set to resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 16:28 IST

News india Chinese Foreign Minister To Visit India Next Week, To Hold Talks With NSA Ajit Doval

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ED Raids 15 Locations Linked To Karnataka Congress MLA Over Illegal Mining Case

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:10 IST

ED raided premises linked to Karnataka Congress MLA Satish Krishna Sail in a money laundering probe. 15 locations in Karnataka, Goa, and Mumbai were searched.

ED Raids 15 Locations Linked To Karnataka Congress MLA Satish Sail

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids on several premises linked to Karnataka Congress MLA Satish Krishna Sail and others. As per the sources, the raids were done as part of a money laundering investigation against the MLA in a case related to alleged illegal export of iron ore.

At least 15 premises in Karnataka, Goa and Mumbai are being searched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said.

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Sail is a Congress MLA representing the Karwar assembly constituency in Uttara Kannada district.

Sail, according to the sources, has been accused of exporting illegally mined iron ore which was seized by forest officials at Belekeri port in Karwar, Karnataka.

This caused loss" to government exchequer for an amount of about Rs 38 crore but the actual value of illegally exported ore is worth hundreds of crores of rupees, the sources said.

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The case originated from a 2010 probe by the Karnataka Lokayukta, which discovered about eight lakh tons of illegally transported iron ore from Bellary to Belekeri port.

Last year, the Karnataka High Court suspended the seven-year prison sentence imposed on the MLA in this case. A special court had previously found Sail and others guilty in several cases related to the illegal export of iron ore from the Belekeri port.

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: August 13, 2025, 11:52 IST

News india ED Raids 15 Locations Linked To Karnataka Congress MLA Over Illegal Mining Case

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Soldier Killed As Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid Along LoC In J&K's Uri: Report

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:17 IST

The Indian Army foiled the infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri, officials said.

Indian Army foils infiltration bid in J&K (Representational image)

An Indian Army soldier was killed in an exchange of fire as the forces foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday, news agency PTI reported.

The infiltration bid was foiled in the Churunda area of Uri in the Baramulla district of north Kashmir.

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An exchange of fire took place between the troops and the terrorists in which Hawaldar Ankit was killed in action, they said.

It was possibly an infiltration attempt that was foiled by alert troops in Uri Sector. The area had experienced similar activity 1015 days earlier, when two terrorists were neutralized," Indian Army officials said.

Earlier on Tuesday, a soldier was killed during operational duty" in Baramulla, the Army said.

Chinar Corps deeply regrets the loss of precious life of Braveheart Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, while performing operational duty along the Line of Control in Baramulla district. Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family," The Indian Armys Chinar Corps posted on X.

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The attempts to infiltrate the LoC were made amid the ongoing Indian Army operation  Op Akhal  in the forest areas in south Kashmirs district. The operation kicked off on August 1 and is still continuing.

Two soldiers were killed in action, while five terrorists were taken down in the operation.

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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 11:43 IST

News india Soldier Killed As Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid Along LoC In J&K's Uri: Report

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Jaishankar To Travel To Russia From Aug 18 To 21, Lavrov Confirms Meeting With EAM In Moscow

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 16:42 IST

Sources said EAM S Jaishankar will have possible meetings with top Russian officials as well as deputy prime minister Dennis Manturov

EAM S Jaishankar last met Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at the foreign ministers' meeting of the SCO in China's Tianjin in July. (Image: PTI)

Soon after national security adviser Ajit Dovals meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on August 7, it is now External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars turn to visit Russia.

He will be visiting Russia from August 18 to 21 and will possibly meet top Russian officials, sources said. In fact, Russia has confirmed that foreign minister Sergey Lavrov will meet Jaishankar on August 21 in Moscow.

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On August 21, FM Sergey Lavrov will hold talks with FM of India S. Jaishankar in Moscow. The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks," (sic) the Russian foreign ministry wrote in a post on X.

FM Sergey #Lavrov's schedule: On August 21, FM Sergey #Lavrov will hold talks with FM of India @DrSJaishankar in Moscow.The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks.#RussiaIndia pic.twitter.com/ck4qG1Z14P MFA Russia  (@mfa_russia) August 13, 2025

According to sources, Jaishankar is likely to travel to Russia from August 18 to 21, where he will have possible meetings with Russian officials and deputy prime minister Dennis Manturov. He is also set to address a business forum on August 20, the sources said.

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His visit comes amid the Trump administrations 50 percent tariff imposition on India over the purchase of Russian oil. India has, however, been firm in its stance and said it will not sever ties with its most reliable ally in Moscow to foster a friendship with one of the worlds most powerful men in Washington.

Jaishankar last met Lavrov at the foreign ministers meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Chinas Tianjin. The two had also met on the sidelines of the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil before that.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, ... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 16:30 IST

News india Jaishankar To Travel To Russia From Aug 18 To 21, Lavrov Confirms Meeting With EAM In Moscow

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Mumbai Need Not Be Singapore Or Shanghai, We Are Developing Third Mumbai: CM Fadnavis

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:21 IST

Fadnavis said that Mumbai has seen significant transformation in recent years, with the Dharavi housing project being a key example of this change

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis speaking at the CNN-News18 Townhall in Mumbai. Image/News18

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that Mumbai does not need to become like Singapore or Shanghai, instead, other cities should aspire to be like Mumbai.

Fadnavis made the remarks while speaking at the CNN-News18 Townhall, Mumbai edition.

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Mumbai will remain Mumbai  why should we try to make it like Shanghai or Singapore? Mumbai has its own character, and I believe that character is even better than that of Shanghai or Singapore," Fadnavis said in response to a question on whether he envisions Mumbai becoming like Shanghai or Singapore.

#CNNNews18Townhall | Mumbai has its own character which is better than Singapore and Shanghai. You will see a lot of transformation in the next 5 years. We are creating a new futuristic third Mumbai: @Dev_Fadnavis, Maharashtra CM#Mumbai | @AnchorAnandN pic.twitter.com/BbNE2sQb4g News18 (@CNNnews18) August 13, 2025

Fadnavis further stated that while Mumbai has some gaps in infrastructure and housing, efforts to address them began in 2014, and the ongoing transformation is visible now.

There are only a few infrastructure gaps in Mumbai, and some gaps in housing. We need to bridge those, and we began that work in 2014. Now, you can already see the transformation, and in the next five years, youll see even more," the Chief Minister said.

Why should we try to become like Shanghai or Singapore? People should focus on building a city like Mumbai, and we should prepare the city accordingly," he added.

Fadnavis further said that Mumbai has seen significant transformation in recent years, with the Dharavi housing project being a key example of this change.

Dharavi is a transformational project through which we will provide proper, permanent housing with all necessary facilities to 10 lakh people," he said.

Speaking about infrastructure development, the Chief Minister said, We are developing Third Mumbaiwhich will come up between the Atal Setu and the Navi Mumbai airport. This new Mumbai is a futuristic city. It includes an Edu City where seven top-ranked global universities have already come in, and five more are on the way. Just today, I finalised talks with another leading university."

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He also said that Mumbai will have a bullet train within the next two to three years.

Criticising previous governments, Fadnavis claimed that Mumbai had failed to develop over the past 25 years due to what he described as chronic capitalism" by those in power at the time.

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: August 13, 2025, 17:22 IST

News india Mumbai Need Not Be Singapore Or Shanghai, We Are Developing Third Mumbai: CM Fadnavis

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Op Sindoor Flag To Soar High As IAF Prepares Special Flypast Over Red Fort This I-Day

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:26 IST

The main saluting dais, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the ceremonial salute, has also been adorned with an Operation Sindoor-themed backdrop

IAF helicopters to showcase Operation Sindoor flag during flypast over the Red Fort during this year's Independence Day celebrations | Image: News18

Independence Day 2025: The Operation Sindoor flag will soar high in the skies as the Indian Air Force is preparing a special flypast over the Red Fort for this years I-Day celebrations.

The main saluting dais, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive the ceremonial salute, has also been adorned with an Operation Sindoor-themed backdrop, featuring its logo alongside images of warships, Su-30MKI fighter jets, BrahMos missiles, and soldiers.

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Fifteen defence personnel who participated in Operation Sindoor will be seated on the ramparts of the Red Fort for the Prime Ministers address to the nation, according to reports.

According to a senior official, the IAF has a long tradition of flying the Tricolour during national events such as Independence Day and Republic Day.

This year, the helicopters will also carry the Operation Sindoor flag to honour the missions success, the official said.

Launched on May 7, the operation was a response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including 25 Indians and one Nepali.

The operation met with massive success as the Armed Forces precisely targeted the nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

Op Sindoor In Invitation Cards

The Ministry of Defence has also given Operation Sindoor prominence in this years Independence Day invitations, placing the operations name in the top right corner and featuring a sketch of the Chenab railway bridge in the centrereplacing the usual Central Vista motif.

Recently inaugurated by the Prime Minister, the bridge links the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail for the first time.

While the government has yet to announce the official theme of the celebrations, security measures around the Red Fort have been significantly strengthened.

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Enhanced aerial surveillance is in place, and authorities have banned the use of surveillance equipment manufactured in China.

A high-level security review was conducted on Monday, August 11, with officials inspecting arrangements and directing staff to carry out final security drills ahead of the event.

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:26 IST

News india Op Sindoor Flag To Soar High As IAF Prepares Special Flypast Over Red Fort This I-Day

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PM Modi's US Visit For UNGA Not Finalised: Sources Amid Trump Meeting Buzz

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:59 IST

Indian government sources made the remarks following reports of a possible Modi-Trump meeting at a critical juncture in bilateral ties.

A file photo of PM Modi with Donald Trump (PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the United States has not been finalised, government sources told CNN-News18 on Wednesday, as multiple reports claimed that the Indian leader would meet US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) gathering in September.

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It has not yet been decided if the PM would go to UNGA," a source said, after the reports sparked a buzz over a possible high-profile meeting with Trump at a critical juncture in bilateral ties.

According to The Indian Express, preparations were underway for the Prime Ministers visit in the last week of September, with the ostensible reason being to attend the UNGA in New York.

The key objective is to meet Trump to iron out differences on tariffs and arrive at a common ground on trade issues, it said.

As per the Indian Express, India has already reached out to the UN headquarters to secure a speaking slot for PM Modi, which has been scheduled for the morning of September 26.

Trump is scheduled to address the UNGA on September 23.

Apart from meeting Trump, PM Modi is also likely to hold meetings with other world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, India Today reported.

Last year, despite an initial speaking slot being booked in his name, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar represented India at the UNGA in place of the Prime Minister.

PM Modi had travelled to the US in February this year for a bilateral meeting with Trump in the White House in Washington, DC.

In a joint statement issued after their meeting, PM Modi and Trump had announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by the fall of 2025.

However, on August 6, the White House announced an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian imports, taking the total tariff on India to 50 per cent.

The move, Trump said, was in response to Indias continued purchases of Russian oil. The additional tariffs will take effect on August 27.

India reacted promptly, brushing off Washingtons move as a reckless tariff tirade" and stressing that it would take all necessary steps to protect national interests. The two sides are negotiating a trade deal.

ALSO READ | Trump Administration Revises US Human Rights Report With Softer Tone On Allies

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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: August 13, 2025, 07:43 IST

News india PM Modi's US Visit For UNGA Not Finalised: Sources Amid Trump Meeting Buzz

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Pune Police Challenge Juvenile Justice Board Order In Porsche Crash Case, Seeks Teens Trial As Adult

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:32 IST

The high-profile crash took place in Punes Kalyani Nagar area in May last year, killing IT professionals Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Costa, who were on a motorcycle.

The crash occurred just after the minor was celebrating his Class 12 board results at a pub in Pune last year. (PTI Photo)

The Pune Police has approached the sessions court challenging the Juvenile Justice Boards (JJB) order denying permission to try the teenager accused in the Porsche crash case as an adult. Speaking to CNN-News18, advocate Prashant Patil, who represents the boy, confirmed the development but said he has not yet received a copy of the polices plea.

In its petition, the police have termed the matter an exceptional case" and sought a psychoanalysis test of the juvenile. The move comes after the JJB ruled that the 17-year-old, accused of fatally running over two people while allegedly driving a Porsche under the influence, would be tried under the Juvenile Justice Act.

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The high-profile crash took place in Punes Kalyani Nagar area in May last year, killing IT professionals Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Costa, who were on a motorcycle.

The Juvenile Justice Board had earlier rejected the Pune Polices plea to try the teenager accused in the Porsche crash case as an adult. The board ruled that the accused, who was 17 years old at the time of the incident, would be tried as a minor under the Juvenile Justice Act.

The prosecution had pressed the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) to try the 17-year-old boy, accused of fatally running over two people while allegedly driving a Porsche under the influence, as an adult, citing the heinous" nature of the crime.

Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa said the intent behind Section 15 of the Juvenile Justice Act is fundamentally rooted in the principle of reformation for children in conflict with the law. The provision is well-meaning and should remain in place," he noted, but added that its implementation is often casual and inconsistent.

This casual approach needs to be addressed, either by the Supreme Court or through legislative intervention by Parliament," he had earlier said, pointing out that the provision was introduced following the Nirbhaya case to strike a balance between justice and rehabilitation.

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He further said the Act does provide a mechanism for appeal against the Juvenile Justice Boards order and suggested that Pune Police could explore that option in this case.

In several instances, proper psychological and social assessment is not conducted as per the guidelines. This leads to juveniles involved in heinous crimes slipping through the cracks," Pahwa observed. A more rigorous and standardised implementation of the law would better serve its original reformative intent."

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: August 13, 2025, 09:32 IST

News india Pune Police Challenge Juvenile Justice Board Order In Porsche Crash Case, Seeks Teens Trial As Adult

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Rahul Gandhi Denies Life Threat Claims Made By His Lawyer During Savarkar Defamation Case Hearing

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 20:35 IST

The Congress party denied such claims and said that the lawyer had filed a written statement in court, citing a threat to Gandhi's life without consulting him

The case stems from alleged defamatory remarks Gandhi made about Vinayak Damodar Savarkar during a speech. (File)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhis lawyer on Wednesday claimed in a Pune Court that his client is facing a threat to life, given his recent political battles and the lineage of complainant Satyaki Savarkar in the defamation case against him.

The Lok Sabha Leader of Oppositions lawyer, Advocate Milind Pawar claimed in an application before the special court for cases against MPs and MLAs during the hearing of a defamation case filed by Satyaki Savarkar, grand-nephew of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, against the Congress leader, news agency PTI reported.

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However, the Congress party denied such claims and said that the lawyer had filed a written statement in court, citing a threat to Gandhis life without consulting him or obtaining his consent.

                           .        .            .     pic.twitter.com/guKU97ldrL  Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) August 13, 2025

Party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said that the Lok Sabha LoP strongly disagrees with the claim, and therefore, tomorrow, his lawyer will withdraw this written statement from the court.

The case, the trial of which is yet to start, pertains to certain comments allegedly made by Rahul Gandhi against V D Savarkar, freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue.

The application  filed before Judicial Magistrate (First Class) Amol Shinde by Gandhis lawyer Adv Milind Pawar  said that complainant Satyaki Savarkar had admitted that he is also a direct descendant, through maternal lineage, of Nathuram Godse and Gopal Godse, principal accused in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Pawar said that the Congress party has filed a separate application in court to place certain important developments on judicial record so that the entire political and historical context can be seen as a whole.

For the past 15 days, our client Rahul Gandhi has been leading a protest against the Election Commission. While this agitation was ongoing during the parliament session, there was a verbal exchange between the Prime Minister and Rahul Gandhi over the word Hindutva  all of which is on record," the Congress MPs lawyer said.

Gandhi is the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and recently held a press conference in New Delhi, placing before the nation evidence of electoral fraud by the Election Commission, the application said.

In light of the documented history of violent and anti-constitutional tendencies linked to the complainants lineage, and considering the prevailing political climate, there exists a clear, reasonable, and substantial apprehension that Rahul Gandhi may face harm, wrongful implication, or other forms of targeting by persons subscribing to the ideology of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar," the application stated.

The court has already granted bail to Gandhi in the case.

Reacting to the plea, Satyaki Savarkar said it was frivolous, and filed with the intention of delaying the trial. "The facts mentioned in the application by Gandhi have nothing to do with the present case," he told reporters.

Satyaki Savarkar has filed a complaint against Gandhi, alleging that in a speech made in London in March 2023, the Congress leader claimed that V D Savarkar had written in a book that he and five to six of his friends once beat up a Muslim man and he (Savarkar) felt happy.

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She disputed the existence of such an account in Savarkars published works and moved the Court contending the remarks were false, misleading and defamatory. She has sought Gandhis conviction under Section 500 IPC and compensation under Section 357 CrPC.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:13 IST

News india Rahul Gandhi Denies Life Threat Claims Made By His Lawyer During Savarkar Defamation Case Hearing

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Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday warned that parts of the country, including the capital Tehran, are faced with a "serious" water crisis.
Supreme Court Cancels Wrestler Sushil Kumar's Bail In Murder Case, Asks Him To Surrender Within A Week

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 11:32 IST

Wrestler Sushil Kumar was earlier granted bail by the Delhi High Court in the Sagar Dhankar Murder case.

SC cancels Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar's bail in Dhankar murder case.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday cancelled the bail of two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar, the prime accused in the murder of junior national wrestling champion Sagar Dhankar. In addition to this, the top court has asked him to surrender within a week.

A bench of justices Sanjay Karol and Prashant Kumar Mishra set aside the March 4 order of the Delhi High Court granting bail to Kumar.

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Earlier in March, the wrestler was granted bail by the Delhi High Court. He was arrested in the Sagar Dhankar Murder case. Dhankar was murdered on the night of 4 May 2021.

Justice Sanjeev Narula granted regular bail to Sushil Kumar on furnishing a bail bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of the like amount. He was earlier granted seven days interim bail for Knee surgery in July 2023.

Sushil Kumar, along with other accused persons, is facing trial in the junior wrestler Sagar Dhankars murder case. Kumar, along with several others, is accused of assaulting Dhankar and his two friends, Sonu and Amit Kumar, in the parking lot of Delhis Chhatrasal Stadium in 2021.

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Dhankar, a 23-year-old wrestler from Haryanas Rohtak, succumbed to injuries sustained in the assault. Meanwhile, the two others were left injured. According to the post-mortem report, Dhankar died of cerebral damage caused by blunt force trauma.

About the Author Ananya Bhatnagar Ananya Bhatnagar, Correspondent at CNN-News18, reports on various legal issues and cases in lower courts and the Delhi High Court. He has covered the hanging of the Nirbhaya gang-rape convicts, JNU violence, De... Read More Ananya Bhatnagar, Correspondent at CNN-News18, reports on various legal issues and cases in lower courts and the Delhi High Court. He has covered the hanging of the Nirbhaya gang-rape convicts, JNU violence, De... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 10:55 IST

News india Supreme Court Cancels Wrestler Sushil Kumar's Bail In Murder Case, Asks Him To Surrender Within A Week

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CJI Gavai Says He'll 'Look Into It' As Supreme Court's Delhi Stray Dog Order Sparks Row

Curated By :

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 11:46 IST

Supreme Court's Delhi Stray Dog Order: The Supreme Court on Wednesday noted an urgent mention in the stray dogs case, after which CJI BR Gavai said he would look into the matter.

New Delhi: Stray dogs at a street at Shalimar Bagh area (Photo: PTI)

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Wednesday said he would look into an urgent mention in the ongoing stray dogs row in the Supreme Court.

His response came after the matter was mentioned before the CJI by a lawyer, who took objection to an order passed by the top court on August 11, directing the removal of all stray dogs.

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This is with regard to the community dogs issue. There is an earlier judgment of this court which says there cannot be indiscriminate killing of canines, of which Justice Karol was a part," the advocate mentioned.

It says compassion for all living beings has to be there," he added.

But the other judge bench has already passed orders. I will look into this," CJI Gavai said in response.

The Supreme Court, however, has not agreed to list the matter for hearing.

The earlier judgment pertains to a 2024 plea in the court, which sought regular sterilisation and immunisation of stray dogs in the national capital. It also mentioned that authorities did not take up the task.

On August 11, the Supreme Court noted an extremely grim" situation due to stray dog bites resulting in rabies, particularly among children, and directed Delhi-NCR authorities to permanently relocate all strays from streets to shelters at the earliest".

Saying dog shelters will have to be augmented over time, the court directed Delhi authorities to start with creating shelters for around 5,000 canines within six to eight weeks.

A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan passed a slew of directions and warned of strict action against an individual or organisation in case of obstruction, which might also prompt the court to initiate contempt proceedings.

The bench further remarked if the animal activists and so-called lovers" would be able to bring back children who fell prey to rabies.

The top court was hearing a suo motu case initiated on July 28 over stray dog bites leading to rabies in the national capital.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, in the meantime, requested the bench to direct appropriate authorities of Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad to comply with the courts directions.

The bench agreed to the suggestion and said there should not be any compromise in undertaking the exercise.

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The top court said it was issuing the directions only keeping the larger public interest" in mind.

ALSO READ | Woman Mauled To Death By Pack Of Dogs In UP, Second Such Attack Since SC Stray Dog Ruling

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: August 13, 2025, 11:05 IST

News india CJI Gavai Says He'll 'Look Into It' As Supreme Court's Delhi Stray Dog Order Sparks Row

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Thanks EC For Unique Experience: Rahul Gandhi Has Tea With 7 'Dead' Voters From Bihar

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 23:24 IST

Rahul Gandhi shared a video of meeting voters in Bihar who were declared "dead" by the Election Commission.

Rahul Gandhi has tea with 'dead people', thanks ECI for 'unique experience' (X)

Amid the escalating row over Bihar SIR, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday shared a video online in which he is seen interacting and having tea with some of the omitted persons who have been declared dead" in the revised draft voter list.

Crediting the Election Commission for this unique experience," Gandhi said that he never got the chance to have tea with dead people.

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Sharing the 3-4 minutes long video, Gandhi captioned, "There have been many interesting experiences in life, but I never got the chance to have tea with dead people. For this unique experience, thank you, Election Commission!"

In the video, the Lok Sabha LoP was seen asking them how they discovered the Election Commission had killed them. "I have heard that you guys are not alive. The Election Commission has killed you," Gandhi said. One of the dead said they found out only after the poll panel released a draft list of 65 lakh excluded names.

Gandhi told one man, asking how many such cases exist. One person responded that in a single panchayat, there are at least 50 such instances. They alleged that in the constituency of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, many living voters were shown as dead in the list provided by the Election Commission.

The group also told Gandhi that they appeared before the Supreme Court on Wednesday to get their voting rights back. The apex court is hearing petitions against the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.

One of the group members urged the Congress MP and Mahagathbandhan alliance to "save Bihar" to which the LoP affirmed that they are trying to stop the electoral malpractices.

The interaction came amid a row that erupted over Rahul Gandhis "vote theft" allegations against the Election Commission and alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar.

During a press conference on August 7, Rahul Gandhi levelled vote chori" (vote theft) allegations against the Election Commission and BJP-ruled Centre, citing the Congress internal analysis. The LoP stated that the Congress expected to win 16 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka but ended up with only nine.

He said the Congress investigated seven unexpected losses, zeroing in on Mahadevapura, where he alleged vote theft involving 100,250 votes. Presenting Congresss research on voting in the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka, Rahul Gandhi alleged "vote chori" (vote theft) of 100,250 votes.

Meanwhile, the poll body has rejected the claims and demanded that Gandhi should submit proof of his allegations and a sign an affidavit.

In a strong rebuttal last week, it said the Congress was trying to mislead" the people as they tried to mislead the Supreme Court in 2018, referring to part veteran Kamal Naths plea.

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The Karnataka CEO on Sunday asked Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to submit documents to inquire into his "vote theft" allegations against the poll body.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 23:24 IST

News india Thanks EC For Unique Experience: Rahul Gandhi Has Tea With 7 'Dead' Voters From Bihar

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With 'Naya Bharat' Theme, PM Modi To Lead 79th Independence Day Celebrations At Red Fort

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News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 20:09 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations from the historic Red Fort, where he will unfurl the National Flag and address the nation.

Centre reveals the theme for this year's Independence Day celebrations | Image: File

The Centre on Wednesday revealed the theme for the upcoming 79th Independence Day celebrations on August 15, announcing Naya Bharat" as the guiding message for this years national event.

The theme reflects the countrys ambition to build a prosperous, secure, and self-reliant India as it moves toward the Governments vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, an official statement said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations from the historic Red Fort, where he will unfurl the National Flag and address the nation.

The Indian Air Force is the coordinating service for this years event, which will feature a ceremonial Guard of Honour, a 21-gun salute, and a special flypast carrying both the National Flag and the Operation Sindoor flag.

Upon arrival at the Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

He will be introduced to Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Delhi Area, who will escort him to the Saluting Base for the general salute and Guard of Honour inspection.

The Guard of Honour will comprise 96 personnelone officer and 24 members each from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Policecommanded by Wing Commander AS Sekhon.

Following the inspection, the Prime Minister will proceed to the ramparts, where he will be greeted by the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.

Flying Officer Rashika Sharma will assist in hoisting the Tricolour, synchronised with a 21-gun salute from the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial) using indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns.

The National Flag Guard128 personnel drawn equally from the three armed services and the Delhi Policewill present the Rashtriya Salute.

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The Air Force band, led by Junior Warrant Officer M Deka, will play the National Anthem, with 11 Agniveer Vayu musicians participating for the first time.

As the flag is raised, two IAF Mi-17 helicopters, captained by Wing Commanders Vinay Poonia and Aditya Jaiswal, will shower flower petals over the venueone flying the National Flag and the other bearing the Operation Sindoor flag.

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

First Published: August 13, 2025, 20:09 IST

News india With 'Naya Bharat' Theme, PM Modi To Lead 79th Independence Day Celebrations At Red Fort

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Aahana Kumra's Bikini Pictures From Goa Holiday Are Powered By Sunscreen

Published By :

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:49 IST

Aahana Kumra recently took a quick vacation to Goa. She took to her social media to share pictures from the poolside.

Aahana Kumra shared vibrant bikini photos from Goa.

Aahana Kumra, a true fashionista and avid traveller, never fails to wow her followers with glimpses from her getaways. This time, the actress is setting the perfect weekend mood with her vibrant bikini look from Goa, and her latest Instagram post is pure vacation goals.

The diva, known for her fearless style and infectious energy, is soaking in the coastal vibes of Assagao, Goa, and treating her fans to a glimpse of her carefree pool day.

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Aahana Kumras Bikini Look

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aahana S Kumra (@aahanakumra)

In the pictures, Aahana Kumra is seen enjoying herself in an infinity pool surrounded by lush greenery. The pictures are radiating nothing but happiness and sunshine. She opted for a colourful bikini with neon accents that perfectly complemented her glowing skin and the tropical setting. The lively hues of her swimwear not only added a splash of vibrance to the frame but also reflected her playful, spirited personality.

The actress completed her poolside look with minimal makeup, letting her natural glow take centre stage. Her short, tousled hair added to the relaxed holiday aesthetic. Holding a drink in one hand and flashing a wide smile, Aahana looked like she was truly embracing the moment.

The caption of the post reads: Powered by sunscreen, laughter & weekend vibes" followed by a series of summer emojis. It was a post that celebrated both the joys of the weekend and the laid-back charm of Goa.

Fans React To Aahana Kumras Bikini Look

Needless to say, in no time, fans poured into the comment section with love. One fan commented, You made the place more beautiful with your grace and smile. Truly blessed." While another fan wrote, So colourful."

Aahana Kumras Second Look

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aahana S Kumra (@aahanakumra)

In another look from the same getaway, she slipped into a dreamy floral co-ord set featuring a sleeveless top and a matching slit skirt. The deep navy base with bright, tropical floral prints brings a touch of drama, while the thigh-high slit adds just the right amount of allure. The breezy fabric and easy silhouette make it ideal for Goas humid yet romantic monsoon weather.

She captioned her post, Draped in a dream, moving slow while the world rushes by. The monsoon teaches you to pause, breathe, feel."

Aahana Kumras Upcoming Projects

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Aahana Kumra made her acting debut in 2009 with the short film Mai, gradually building her portfolio with appearances in television and indie films. She rose to fame with the 2014 psychological thriller series Yudh, starring alongside industry heavyweights like Amitabh Bachchan, Sarika, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Kay Kay Menon.

In 2017, she delivered a standout performance in Lipstick Under My Burkha, a film celebrated for its bold storytelling and feminist themes. She was last seen in Kajol and Vishal Jethwa starrer Salaam Venky, in which she played the role of Sanjana, a TV journalist.

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 : Delhi, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 13:49 IST

News lifestyle Aahana Kumra's Bikini Pictures From Goa Holiday Are Powered By Sunscreen
Alive And Giving: The Organs You Never Knew Could Be Donated While Living

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:09 IST

On World Organ Donation Day, here's a look at some of the lesser-known forms of donation that can save lives.

These lesser-known donations provide profound experiences for donors and life-changing benefits for recipients.

When most people think of living organ donation, the picture is usually limited to a kidney or perhaps part of the liver. These have long been the mainstays of such procedures. But modern medicine has quietly expanded the boundaries of whats possible. Today, a living person can donate parts of other vital organs and tissues, transforming the lives of recipients, without compromising their long-term health. These lesser-known forms of donation are rewriting the definition of generosity in healthcare.

For recipients, the gift can mean liberation from medical devices, years of renewed health, and a second chance at life. For organ donors, it often becomes one of the most profound experiences they will ever have. As Prof. (Dr.) Rahul Rai, Sr. Consultant  Hepatology & Liver Transplant Physician, Narayana Hospital, Jaipur, explains, These donations can mean the difference between life and death, or between being tied to medical machines and living fully."

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A Lobe of the Lung

While its not possible to survive after donating an entire lung, certain patients with severe lung disease can receive a lobe from a healthy donor. This option is considered in critical cases where no lungs from deceased donors are available. The donor may experience a slight reduction in lung capacity, but the recipient often gains immediate relief from constant oxygen dependence.

A Portion of the Pancreas

Partial pancreas transplants can transform the lives of patients with severe Type 1 diabetes who struggle to control their blood sugar. Donors are screened to ensure their remaining pancreas functions normally, producing insulin and digestive enzymes. Recovery may take weeks, but the emotional reward of freeing someone from daily insulin injections is immeasurable.

A Segment of the Intestine

Small bowel donations are rare but essential for patients with intestinal failure. Donating a segment can restore nutrient absorption and drastically improve the quality of life. The intestines remarkable ability to adapt means most donors recover well over time.

A Careful and Ethical Process

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Dr. Rai stresses that living organ donation is a serious medical and ethical commitment. Donors undergo rigorous screening: medical, psychological, and surgical planning to minimise risk. Post-operative care ensures both donor and recipient recover safely.

Informed consent and freedom from pressure are non-negotiable, ensuring that such extraordinary acts of generosity remain truly voluntary.

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 : Delhi, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:09 IST

News lifestyle  health-and-fitness Alive And Giving: The Organs You Never Knew Could Be Donated While Living
Mrunal Thakur Serves Effortless Parisian Drama In All-Black Power Dressing

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:29 IST

Mrunal Thakur turns head-to-toe black into a masterclass in modern glamour, balancing sharp tailoring with effortless allure.

Mrunal Thakur's exaggerated cuffs, crisp collar, and fluid silhouette create a perfect balance between structured formality and off-duty cool

In her latest style outing, Mrunal Thakur proves yet again that she is a master of fusing elegance with an edge. Dressed in an all-black ensemble that marries the sharp tailoring of a shirt dress with the playful twirl of a flared hemline, she exudes a kind of power dressing that doesnt shout it smolders. The exaggerated cuffs, crisp collar, and fluid silhouette create a perfect balance between structured formality and off-duty cool. She tool to Instagram to share these pictures and captioned it, Stop staring!"

Paired with sheer black tights and glossy platform pumps, the look elongates her frame, turning the outfit into a statement of sleek minimalism. Its a reminder that sometimes the absence of colour only intensifies impact letting texture, silhouette, and attitude take center stage.

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But its her accessories that seal the deal. Angular, futuristic black sunglasses add an air of mystery and confidence, as if shes stepped out from the pages of a high-fashion editorial straight onto the cobbled streets of Paris. Gold hoops peep subtly from behind her hair, lending warmth to the otherwise monochrome palette.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mrunal Thakur (@mrunalthakur)

The eyes are softly defined, allowing her bold sunglasses to share the spotlight, while a nude-pink lipstick adds just the right touch of softness against the all-black drama. In one candid frame, shes seen applying the lipstick mid-touch-up, a behind-the-scenes glimpse that makes the high-fashion moment feel relatable.

Mrunals hair transitions effortlessly between two moods in this shoot, pulled back into a sleek bun for a clean, sculpted effect in the mirror shots, and worn down in voluminous, tousled waves for more relaxed, candid moments. The contrast showcases her versatility: one moment shes a polished runway muse, the next a laughing, carefree beauty caught between takes.

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Theres also a narrative running through the photographs from adjusting her collar in the mirror to sitting casually with her phone, and finally breaking into an unguarded smile. Its a blend of editorial precision and real personality, reminding us that true style is not just about clothes, but about the woman who wears them.

In head-to-toe black, shes anything but basic; shes a mood, a moment, and a masterclass in modern glamour.

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: August 13, 2025, 09:29 IST

News lifestyle Mrunal Thakur Serves Effortless Parisian Drama In All-Black Power Dressing
Hidden Histories: Travel To South Africas Oldest And Most Sacred Places

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 11:18 IST

South Africa is where archaeology meets spirituality, and where science and storytelling come together to reveal the origins of who we are.

For Indian travellers drawn to meaning, mystery, and mythology, South Africa is home to some of the most significant archaeological and rock art sites on Earth

When people think of South Africa, they often picture safaris, vineyards, and iconic skylines. But beyond these familiar scenes tucked away in the folds of mountains and valleys, one not found in cities or national parks, but ancient story, one that began not hundreds, but millions of years ago These are not grand monuments or architectural feats, they are quiet, enduring records of the worlds earliest humans.

For Indian travellers drawn to meaning, mystery, and mythology, South Africa is home to some of the most significant archaeological and rock art sites on Earth. These are places where the land still whispers the voices of early man etched into stone, painted on cavern walls, or fossilised in limestone. It is where archaeology meets spirituality, and where science and storytelling come together to reveal the origins of who we are. Let me walk you through the top iconic spots for history buffs.

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 A Portal to the First Humans

The Cradle of Humankind (Gauteng) is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its the very site where some of the earliest hominid fossils were discovered, dating back over 3 million years. Here, you can descend into the Sterkfontein Caves, where the famous fossil Mrs. Ples" was unearthed, and trace the evolutionary footsteps of humanity at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. For Indian travellers fascinated by museumology and forensic anthropology, this site offers a great opportunity to witness the same.

 The San Legacy: Rock Art as Sacred Scripture

The San or Bushmen are indigenous people in Southern Africa who are known for their ancient rock painting and carvings. Interestingly, their artwork depicts non-human beings, hunters, and half-human-half-animal hybrids. The half-human hybrids are believed to be medicine men or healers involved in a healing dance.

Long before ink met paper, South Africas indigenous San people told their history on stone, stories of survival, rituals, animal spirits, and shamanic journeys. In the Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape, their artworks remain vivid after thousands of years. Visit the Stadsaal Caves and Truitjieskraal, where ochre-red sandstone canvases are alive with antelope, hunters, and mystical beings.

In uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (KwaZulu-Natal), over 20,000 paintings across more than 500 sites make this one of the largest open-air art galleries in the world. Guided tours to places like the Kamberg Rock Art Centre or Giants Castle Game Reserve take you into sacred spaces where trance rituals once bridged the human and spirit worlds.

 Where Nature and Narrative Meet

For those who enjoy pairing adventure with luxury, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve offers curated hikes through over 130 rock art sites in a breathtaking landscape. Here, modern comfort meets ancient wisdom, allowing for immersive storytelling experiences under African skies. The Bushman (San) paintings inside Wonderwerk Cave near Kuruman depict animals, humans, and symbols in natural pigments. Likely under 1,000 years old, they reflect San spiritual and ritual practices, including shamanic beliefs. Found near the caves entrance, these artworks add cultural depth to a site already known for evidence of early human activity dating back nearly 2 million years.

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Meanwhile, the Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Centre in the Northern Cape offers a quieter, educational journey into the engraved legacies of the KhoiSan people, one of the worlds oldest continuous cultures. Interactive exhibits help decode the symbols and meanings behind these mysterious markings, offering insight into the deep spiritual lives of early communities. The rock art in Mapungubwe National Park and Makgabeng Farm Lodge offers a rich glimpse into South Africas ancient cultural heritage. At Mapungubwe, San rock paintings depict animals, human figures, and spiritual symbols, reflecting early hunter-gatherer life. The Makgabeng Plateau features thousands of artworks from both San and Bantu-speaking communities. These paintings portray rituals, daily life, and evolving cultural narratives over centuries. Guided tours at Makgabeng Farm Lodge provide an immersive way to explore this layered history.

For the spiritually curious, the culturally inclined, or even history buffs tracing the threads of humanity, South Africas caves and rock art tell a story that is both intimate and universal.

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

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 11:18 IST

News lifestyle  travel Hidden Histories: Travel To South Africas Oldest And Most Sacred Places
World Organ Donation Day 2025: Theme, History, Indias Rank And How You Can Help

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 07:03 IST

World Organ Donation Day 2025: India achieved a remarkable milestone of performing over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024 and ranks third globally, behind only the US and China.

World Organ Donation Day 2025 theme is Answering The Call. (AI generated image)

World Organ Donation Day 2025: World Organ Donation Day is observed each year on August 13 and is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of organ donation and to educating and encouraging people to register as donors. The day also honours organ donors and their families for their selfless contribution to help another person live.

World Organ Donation Day 2025 Theme

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The theme of World Organ Donation Day this year is Answering The Call". As per the Organ Donation and Transplant Alliance, the theme serves as a tribute to the professionals in the field as well as a call for increased collaboration. The theme honours the extraordinary professionals who are dedicated to advancing organ donation and transplantation.

World Organ Donation Day History

World Organ Donation Day is one of the most important global events that commemorate the first-ever living donor organ transplant done in 1954 in the USA. The donor, Ronald Lee Herrick, donated his kidney to his twin brother, and Dr Joseph Murray carried out this successful organ transplant.

This day is celebrated to raise organ donation awareness and encourage more people to come forward and donate. However, many countries observe this day according to their history of organ donation.

In India, the first successful deceased organ donation took place on August 3, 1994. Hence, Organ Donation Day in India has been observed on 3rd August starting from 2023.

Before that year, National Organ Donation Day was celebrated on 27th November under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO).

Significance of World Organ Donation Day

The main reason behind celebrating this day is to encourage more people to come forward for the noble cause and educate them about its impact on the recipients life.

The day focuses on lowering the gap between the supply and demand of organs.

The day honours the contribution of organ donors and their families for saving the life of the recipient.

This day also aims to address various misconceptions and notions regarding organ donation and inspire people to come forward and register themselves as donors.

Types of Organ Donations

There are 4 types of organ donations, including living donation, deceased donation, tissue donation, and Vascularised Composite Allografts (VCAs).

Living donation means donating an organ or part of an organ while the donor is still alive, while deceased donation occurs after the donors death.

On the other hand, tissue donation can consist of a wider range of biological materials like corneas, skin, bone, and heart valves, and VCAs are a newer type of transplant, which involves multiple structures like skin, bone, muscles, and nerves.

Organ Donation in India

Under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) Organ Donation Day in India has been observed on 3rd August starting from 2023 to commemorate the first successful deceased organ donation on August 3, 1994.

Since the launch of the Aadhaar-based NOTTO online pledge website in 2023, nearly 3.30 lakh citizens have registered themselves to be organ donors.

India achieved a remarkable milestone of performing over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024 and ranks third globally in the total number of organ transplants, behind only the US and China.

World Organ Donation Day 2025: How You Can Help

Register as an Organ Donor: Sign up through official portals like the NOTTO website or your states health department to pledge your organs. Inform Your Family: Make sure your family knows your decision, as their consent is often required at the time of donation. Carry a Donor Card: After registration, carry your organ donor card as proof of your pledge  you can also add it to your health ID or Aadhaar records. Spread Awareness: Talk about organ donation with friends, at schools, on social media, or in your community to reduce stigma and misinformation. Support Organ Donation NGOs: Volunteer your time or donate to organizations that promote organ donation and support recipients and donor families. Encourage Living Donation: Consider becoming a living donor (for kidney or liver), if youre healthy and emotionally ready  under full medical guidance. Participate in Campaigns & Drives: Join or organize awareness drives during Organ Donation Day or related events to help spread the message further.

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About the Author Nibandh Vinod Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with 26 years of experience, specializing in covering events, festivals, and driving SEO content for News18.com. A tech-savvy person, Nibandh works closely with a young te... Read More

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 07:03 IST

News lifestyle World Organ Donation Day 2025: Theme, History, Indias Rank And How You Can Help
Your Ultimate Long Weekend Binge Guide For August

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 10:27 IST

With access to an extensive library of on-demand content from 29 prominent Streaming Apps and over 600 popular television channels, all you need to do is start watching

Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh Announce Housefull 5 OTT Release With A Fun Reel

Long weekends are here, and theres no better time to dive into a world of new movies and shows. Fortunately, with Airtel IPTV, you have the ultimate large-screen viewing experience, bringing together the best content from across multiple streaming platforms. With access to an extensive library of on-demand content from 29 prominent Streaming Apps and over 600 popular television channels, all you need to do is get comfortable and start watching. Here is an exciting list of new OTT releases perfect for your long-weekend binge-watching, all seamlessly available through your Airtel IPTV service.

New Releases to Watch on Airtel IPTV

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1. Bakaiti

ZEE5 Set in old Ghaziabad, this heartwarming series revolves around the Kataria family, who decide to rent out one of their rooms to deal with an acute financial crunch. Will their decision to earn some extra bucks lead to more chaos in their lives? The ensemble cast of the series, available to stream on ZEE5 via Airtel IPTV, includes Rajesh Tailang, Sheeba Chaddha, Tanya Sharma, and Aditya Shukla.

2. Housefull 5

Amazon Prime Video When billionaire Ranjeet Dobriyal passes away, he leaves behind a fortune for his rightful heir, leading to a battle of wits among three men claiming to be Jolly. What follows is a comedy of errors that will leave you in splits. Notably, the film was released with two different endings: Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B. This laugh-out-loud flick features an ensemble cast, including Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Sonam Bajwa, and Abhishek Bachchan, and is available on Amazon Prime Video.

3. My Oxford Year

Netflix My Oxford Year is a romantic movie inspired by Julia Whelans novel of the same name. The Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest starrer follows an ambitious American grad student, who moves to Oxford in England to fulfill her academic dream. But a chance encounter with a charming Brit changes her life forever. You can stream this movie on Netflix, one of the many apps.

4. Black Bag

JioHotstar Headlined by Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender, this gripping espionage flick, available on JioHotstar, follows George Woodhouse, a senior British intelligence officer, who is forced to choose between his country and marriage when his wife, Kathryn, also an intelligence officer, is suspected of betraying the nation.

5. Glass Heart

Netflix This Japanese series explores the life of Saijo Akane, an aspiring drummer who is ousted from her band just before her debut. But things take an unexpected turn when Fujitani Naoki, a brilliant musician, discovers her talent and extends her an invitation to join his new band. Find this intriguing drama on Netflix.

6. Chief of War

Apple TV+ Chief of War is an exhilarating historical series that transports us to the late 18th century, when a noble warrior named Kaiana begins a campaign to unite the warring islands in Hawaii and protect them from colonization. Based on true events, the series features a talented ensemble cast, including Jason Momoa, Luciane Buchanan, Cliff Curtis, and Temuera Morrison. Stream it on Apple TV+ through your Airtel IPTV connection.

7. Beyond the Bar

Netflix An exciting legal Korean drama that follows Hyo Min (Jung Chae Yeon), a confident rookie lawyer at Yeollim Law Firm, who struggles with social situations. But her life takes a dramatic twist when she begins working with an experienced and talented lawyer Seok Hoon (Lee Jin Wook), ultimately turning into a skilled attorney. This show is ready to binge on Netflix.

8. Thammudu

Netflix A fearless archer risks everything to rescue his estranged sister from ruthless criminals in a forbidden jungle. In a night of survival, will he save his sister and the village and redeem his fractured past? Do watch Nithiin and Swasika Vijay starrer that is now available on Netflix.

9. Unspeakable Sins

Netflix Unspeakable Sins is a Mexican psychological-erotic thriller that has the potential to keep you hooked to the screen for hours. The story revolves around Helena, a woman trapped in a controlling relationship, whose world turns upside down when she finds solace in an affair with a younger man. However, what began as a revenge quickly escalates into a dangerous fight for survival. Catch this gripping thriller on Netflix.

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10. Twisted Metal Season 2

SonyLIV Twisted Metal Season 2 marks the return of John and Quiet, played by Anthony Mackie and Stephanie Beatriz, respectively. After surviving a series of challenges in the first season, the duo find themselves participating in a deadly tournament and fighting for survival against both old and new foes. Things get complicated when John reunites with his long-lost sister, Dollface. Stream it now on SonyLIV.

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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: August 13, 2025, 10:27 IST

News lifestyle Your Ultimate Long Weekend Binge Guide For August
BEIRUT, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told Secretary-General of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, on Wednesday that Lebanon is willing to cooperate with Iran within the bounds of sovereignty and mutual respect, while rejecting any interference in its internal affairs.

"We reject any intervention in our internal affairs from any party," Aoun said during his meeting with Larijani. "Lebanon, which never interferes in the affairs of other states and respects their particularities, will not accept anyone interfering in its own," Aoun added, according to a statement by Lebanon's Presidency.

Aoun emphasized that Lebanon's friendship with Iran should not be based on a single sect or Lebanese faction, but with all Lebanese people.

He reaffirmed that Lebanon is a final homeland for all its citizens, whether Christian or Muslim, and that the Lebanese state, through its constitutional and security institutions, is responsible for protecting all communities without exception.

Aoun stressed that only Lebanon's constitutional institutions represent the Lebanese people and safeguard their national interests. He warned against any group taking up arms and relying on foreign backing against fellow Lebanese, noting that such actions have historically cost the nation dearly.

The president underlined that challenges from Israel or others are challenges to all Lebanese, not just one group, and that national unity is the strongest weapon in facing such threats.

For his part, Larijani relayed the Iranian president's greetings and renewed Tehran's invitation for Aoun to visit. He reiterated Iran's support for Lebanon's constitutional institutions, stated that his remarks upon arrival in Beirut reflected Iran's official position, and proposed creating a reconstruction fund for areas damaged by Israeli attacks.

Larijani stressed Iran's desire to maintain strong relations with Lebanon and to assist if requested by the Lebanese government.

After his talks with Aoun, Larijani met Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. He described Lebanon as a "friendly country" with deep historical ties to Iran, noting that the two enjoy "excellent relations" today.

Larijani rejected the idea of imposing timetables or directives on Lebanon, adding, "Our message centers on one point: it is important for Iran that regional countries make independent decisions without needing to take orders from across the oceans."

Larijani also said Iran respects any decision the Lebanese government makes regarding factions operating on its territory. 
Indian Ink | Not Ideologue, But Exemplar: Why Meenakshi Jains Rajya Sabha Nomination Matters

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 09:26 IST

Meenakshi Jains work goes beyond the Hindutva template; it is civilisationally, not just politically, significant

Of Meenakshi Jain's many books, The Flight of Deities and Rebirth of Temples: Episodes from Indian History (2019) is a must-read for its deeper civilisational import. (X)

Exactly a month back, when Meenakshi Jain was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, I was immensely gratified. That is because, at long last, a genuine scholar, academic, and historian had been picked to occupy a slot so designated. Whatever political considerations might have informed such a choice, they are far less significant than the weight of her work and integrity of purpose.

As a disclaimer, albeit fortunate, I readily admit to knowing Dr Jain for over twenty years as a colleague and friend. But I have known her even better through her work, whose singularity and sincerity mark her out from most of her peers. To put it bluntly, she is not an academic racketeer or profiteer. Not that everyone in our field is, but sadly, our system is such that those who are closer to power centres and better at managing people, rather than real academics or intellectuals, tend to flourish. Simply put, they are good at the preferment and patronage game. But Meenakshi Ji is an exception.

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It is for this reason that I call her an exemplar rather than an ideologue, a distinction driven home by the late Professor K.J. Shah, formerly the philosophy don at Karnatak University, Dharwad. Professor Shah told me that the Indian intellectual tradition, as indeed our spiritual parampara, was driven by exemplars, not ideologues.

Who or what is an exemplar? It is someone who demonstrates a consistency in their anubhav (experience), vichar (thought), and aachar (conduct). For Shah, Mahatma Gandhiyes, I dare to continue to call him thatwas the true exemplar of our times. Why? Because his life, and as I have argued, his death too, was transparently and amply and consistent with experience, thought, and deed fully consonant, although constantly evolving and changing.

I bring in Gandhi because it was he who, with Hind Swaraj (1909), inaugurated what one might term Swaraj in Ideas", although the phrase was popularised later. The one to do so was the great philosopher, Krishna Chandra Bhattacharya, in his famous 1928 lecture with that title. Obviously, Aatmanirbhar" Bharat has deep roots not only in our ancient, but also in our recent past.

Of the post-Independence historians who held the torch for Swaraj in Ideas", two, because of the volume and value of their contributions, come instantly to mind: Dharampal and Sita Ram Goel. What is more, they worked from outside the academy, unsupported by the governments of the day. Yet, they persisted decade after decade to create the foundation for the reclamation of our civilisational centre.

The nationalist school of scholarship and historiography is better known by other notable figures such as Jadunath Sarkar and R.C. Majumdar. Arun Shourie, who has just published a stinging riposte to the current adulation of Veer Savarkar, also arguably belongs in this galaxy of thought leaders and change makers.

Yet another reason to mention the very different authors is that they cannot be simply subsumed or reduced to the Hindutva" school of historiography, which Savarkar inaugurated with The Indian War of Independence. Incidentally, this path-breaking tome was published the same year as Gandhis Hind Swaraj. The two books, as I show in my forthcoming work, Hindutva and Hind Swaraj", do have one big thing in common, however much they might differ in their approaches. Both want Swaraj for India.

Meenakshi Jains work, too, cannot be collapsed or contained in the Hindutva template. It is much more academically rigorous, relying on sources, documents, and evidence, than politics. Rama and Ayodhya (2013), The Battle for Rama: Case of the Temple at Ayodhya (2017), Vasudeva Krishna and Mathura (2021), and, more recently, Vishwanath Rises and Rises: The Story of Eternal Kashi (2024), are documentary than ideological. But they supply solid evidential ballast for several far-reaching interpretations which support both Hindutva and the far-reaching interventions of the current regime.

Of her many books, The Flight of Deities and Rebirth of Temples: Episodes from Indian History (2019) is a must-read for its deeper civilisational import. Regardless of how many times anti-Sanatanis, mostly Muslim invaders and conquerors, but also Christian Portuguese and French rulers, among others, destroyed Hindu shrines and temples, Hindus always rebuilt them. Whenever they had the resources or the strength. Meenakshi Ji has thus struck the profound, even ahistoric bedrock of Dharma. Though the iconoclasts believed contrarily, Sanatani stamina exceeded theirs at least in Bharatvarsha.

It is no surprise that for much of her life, Meenakshi Ji was shut out from the hallowed portals of the history departments of both Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University. She taught at Gargi College, rising to the comparatively humber rank of Associate Professor. As a point of fact, although a historian by inclination and aptitude, her PhD is in Political Science. Our official historians policed their terrain rather ruthlessly. No wonder much of the recent path-breaking work in the discipline has come from outside the academy.

Undergraduate college teaching, however, affords less time or resources for serious research. Sustaining herself through furloughs and fellowships, Meenakshi Ji finally took premature retirement. Her most fecund and influential recent decade thus flowered because she quit the academy.

Indeed, after Flawed Narratives: History in the old NCERT Textbooks: A random survey of Satish Chandras Medieval India"? (2000), exposing the narrative rot in NCERT history books, she was a marked woman. It was the point of no return, demonstrating her courage to walk alone. Similarly, her resignation, along with Michel Danino, from the Sarkari muddledom (or should we say blunderdom) of Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), when the BJP was very much in power at the Centre, is also a testament to her academic integrity.

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The elisions, omissions, denials, and, yes, utter falsehoods in history writing that Jain has documented in her long innings have become commonplace tropes in right-wing" social media, academic, and political circles. However, when she embarked upon this path, it was an incredibly brave and risky thing to do. Today, her work has been recognised as an important aid to our self-understanding and, in fact, the self-understanding of a nation and a civilisation.

Makarand R. Paranjape, author and public intellectual, is currently Sri Aurobindo Chair, Vedere University & Director of Education, AHCP LLC. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: August 13, 2025, 09:26 IST

News opinion Indian Ink | Not Ideologue, But Exemplar: Why Meenakshi Jains Rajya Sabha Nomination Matters

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Opinion | Forgotten Betrayal: Partitions Dalit Victims Warn Against Jai Meem Jai Bheem Politics

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:47 IST

The architect of history's first systematic Dalit-Muslim political alliance was Jogendra Nath Mandal, who became Pakistan's inaugural Law and Labour Minister

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During the tumultuous partition period, Mandal emerged as a key Muslim League leader, instructing his Scheduled Caste followers to vote for Pakistan's creation. (AP File)

As India observes Partition Horrors Remembrance Day on August 14, the nation must confront an uncomfortable truth long buried beneath conventional narratives of Hindu-Muslim discord: the systematic betrayal and persecution of Indias Scheduled Castes during the traumatic division of 1947.

This overlooked tragedy offers profound lessons for contemporary politics, particularly regarding the dangerous revival of the Jai Meem Jai Bheem formula, a slogan that embodies the very alliance politics that led to catastrophic suffering for Dalits nearly eight decades ago.

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The architect of historys first systematic Dalit-Muslim political alliance was Jogendra Nath Mandal, who became Pakistans inaugural Law and Labour Minister. A prominent advocate for Scheduled Castes, Mandal made what would prove to be a catastrophic miscalculation: believing that Muslims and Dalits, both perceived as oppressed minorities, could forge a natural partnership against Hindu social dominance. This ideological foundation that shared minority status automatically translates into mutual solidarity forms the conceptual bedrock of todays Jai Meem Jai Bheem movement.

During the tumultuous partition period, Mandal emerged as a key Muslim League leader, instructing his Scheduled Caste followers to vote for Pakistans creation. When communal violence erupted across Bengal, Mandal toured extensively, urging Dalits to refrain from retaliating against Muslims, arguing that both communities were equally victimized by oppression. His rhetoric of unity and brotherhood convinced hundreds of thousands of Dalit Hindus to remain in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), trusting in the Muslim Leagues promises of equality and protection.

The Muslim Leagues courting of Dalit support was strategically calculated. Recognizing that Scheduled Castes comprised significant voting blocs in Bengal and other regions, Muslim leaders crafted elaborate promises of social equality, economic opportunity, and political representation. They painted Pakistan as a progressive state where caste hierarchies would dissolve and merit would triumph over birth-based discrimination. These assurances proved to be sophisticated political deceptions designed exclusively for electoral gain.

The Brutal Reality of Betrayal

The promised land of equality swiftly transformed into a nightmare of persecution. By 1950, Mandal found himself compelled to resign from his ministerial position and flee to India. His resignation letter to Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, dated October 8, 1950, documents horrors that constitute one of the 20th centurys most underreported genocides.2

The systematic nature of the atrocities was particularly chilling. In Sylhet district alone, Mandal reported that of 350 Dalit settlements, merely three survived intact, the remainder had been reduced to ash. Armed police and military personnel perpetrated calculated brutalities against Innocent Hindus, particularly Scheduled Castes. Men faced torture, women endured mass rape, homes were plundered, and hundreds of temples and gurdwaras were desecrated before being converted into slaughterhouses, meat shops, and hotels serving non-vegetarian food, a calculated assault on Hindu religious sensibilities.

Specific incidents revealed the organized nature of persecution: in Gopalganjs Digharkul, armed police destroyed an entire Namasudra village on fabricated charges; in Parisals Gournadi, Scheduled Caste settlements faced assault under political pretexts; during Dhaka riots, jewelry shops were looted and burned while police officials watched passively. The violence wasnt spontaneous communal frenzy but systematic ethnic cleansing targeting those who had trusted Muslim League assurances.

Mandals documentation reveals the psychological torture accompanying physical violence. Dalits who had supported Pakistans creation found themselves branded as traitors by fellow Hindus while simultaneously facing persecution as kafirs" jimmi" by Muslims. This double alienation created profound identity crises within communities that had genuinely believed in secular, inclusive Pakistani nationalism.

Between 1947 and 1950, approximately 2.5 million refugees fled East Pakistan for India, with Scheduled Castes comprising a disproportionate majority. These statistics represent more than mere displacement; they constitute evidence that the Muslim Leagues pledges of security and equality for Scheduled Castes were calculated deceptions designed solely to secure electoral support before partition.

Ambedkars Prescient Warnings

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had anticipated this catastrophe with remarkable clarity. In seminal works including Pakistan or the Partition of India" and Thoughts on Pakistan," he explicitly warned that Muslim politics was fundamentally communal in character, willing to accommodate Scheduled Castes only as long as they provided political advantage. Ambedkars analysis proved tragically prescient, aligning perfectly with Mandals eventual experiences.

Ambedkar understood what Mandal fatally overlooked: the religious and cultural values of Dalit and Muslim communities were so fundamentally divergent that genuine equality and coexistence represented nothing more than dangerous political illusion. He cautioned Hindu Dalits that regardless of how extensively Muslim leadership performed brotherhood theatrics, they would ultimately treat Dalits as kafirs" or jimmi" (infidels) deserving no consideration in an Islamic political framework.

The constitutional architects warnings extended beyond religious incompatibility to structural political analysis. Ambedkar recognized that Muslim communalism, disguised as minority solidarity, would inevitably prioritize religious identity over social justice concerns central to Dalit aspirations. Contemporary Echoes of Historical Folly

Todays resurrection of this failed formula demands urgent scrutiny. The Jal Meem Jal Bheem" slogan, combining Muslim solidarity (Meem" referencing the Urdu letter) with Dalit empowerment (Bheem" honoring Dr. Ambedkar), represents the precise ideological framework that Mandal employed during partition. Though this exact phraseology wasnt popular then, its conceptual foundation permeated the Muslim League-Mandal alliance, the belief that Muslims and Scheduled Castes, both minorities, could become natural collaborators.

Unfortunately, contemporary Indian politics witnesses several parties attempting to revive this demonstrably failed strategy. Maharashtra sees growing proximity between Asaduddin Owaisi and Prakash Ambedkar; Uttar Pradesh experienced the Bahujan Samaj Partys unsuccessful attempts at forging alliances between Scheduled Castes and Muslims; the Samajwadi Partys PDA (Pichda-Dalit-Alpsankhyak) formula seeks to harness both communities merely as vote banks.

Recent electoral evidence reinforces historical patterns. The 2019 BSP-SP alliance in Uttar Pradesh collapsed primarily due to asymmetrical vote transfers. While Dalit voters supported Muslim candidates, reciprocal support proved largely illusory. Similarly, the Owaisi-Prakash Ambedkar partnership in Maharashtra fractured over seat-sharing disputes, revealing the same power dynamics that characterized Muslim League treatment of Mandal.

These examples echo historical mistakes, demonstrating that when politics abandons public welfare for narrow caste and communal calculations, the inevitable result is betrayal and social disintegration.

Structural Incompatibilities Persist

The fundamental contradictions that destroyed Mandals experiment remain unresolved. Power dynamics in every attempted alliance consistently favor Muslim parties, reducing Dalit partners to subordinate positions. Vote transfer patterns reveal systematic asymmetry: while Dalit voters may support Muslim candidates, reciprocal support rarely materializes. Religious identity-based Muslim political consciousness conflicts with caste-focused Dalit aspirations for social justice within Hindu civilizational frameworks.

Moreover, ideological contradictions create insurmountable barriers. Muslim parties emphasis on religious orthodoxy clashes with Dalit movements goals of social reform, gender equality, and educational modernization. These philosophical differences, rooted in fundamentally different worldviews about individual rights, social progress, and cultural values, make genuine partnership impossible.

The Path Forward

Contemporary India must acknowledge that sustainable Dalit progress and security will emerge through self-reliance, education, political awareness, and organizational power, not through alliances that history has repeatedly proven catastrophic. The Jal Meem Jal Bheem" concept and its practical applications have historically manifested as Scheduled Caste humiliation, identity destruction, and existential annihilation.

Therefore, as we commemorate partitions suffering, let us resolve to make decisions based on historical facts and collective experiences, remaining free from emotional sloganeering and vote bank-driven narrow politics. Jogendra Nath Mandals experiences and Dr. Ambedkars warnings teach us that Scheduled Castes will never achieve security, social justice, and dignity from hands that have historically deceived them through religious fanaticism, appeasement, and vote bank politics.

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This represents not merely historical interpretation but guidance for present and future generations. Those who ignore historys lessons are condemned to repeat its most tragic chapters.

Dharampal Singh is state general secretary, organisation, of the BJP Uttar Pradesh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:44 IST

News opinion Opinion | Forgotten Betrayal: Partitions Dalit Victims Warn Against Jai Meem Jai Bheem Politics

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
Opinion: How PM Modis Jal Jeevan Mission Became A Boon For Indias Poorest Villages

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 20:58 IST

The Jal Jeevan Mission is more than a water supply programme  its a lifeline for Indias poorest villages, redefining rural life with dignity, health, and opportunity

With a staggering outlay of Rs 3.6 lakh crore, this flagship initiative reflects PM Modis unwavering commitment to uplifting Indias poorest villages. (PTI File)

In rural India, where the rhythm of life has long been dictated by the daily struggle to fetch water, Prime Minister Narendra Modis Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), launched on August 15, 2019, has emerged as a transformative force.

Envisioned as a movement to deliver safe and reliable tap water to every rural household by 2024, JJM is not just about waterits about dignity, health, and opportunity.

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With a staggering outlay of Rs 3.6 lakh crore, this flagship initiative reflects PM Modis unwavering commitment to uplifting Indias poorest villages, addressing a challenge that should have been tackled decades ago but required his visionary zeal to become reality.

The Vision and Objective of Jal Jeevan Mission

The thought behind JJM stems from a deep understanding of rural Indias water crisis, where millions, especially women and children, spend hours daily fetching water from distant rivers, wells, or ponds. PM Modi, drawing from his experience as Gujarats Chief Minister, where he prioritised water conservation through initiatives such as the Jal Mandir campaign, recognised that access to clean water is foundational to development. JJMs objective is ambitious yet clear: to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) to all 19.36 crore rural households, ensuring 55 litres per capita per day of safe drinking water. Beyond infrastructure, the mission promotes source sustainability through rainwater harvesting, greywater management, and community-driven water governance via Village Water and Sanitation Committees (VWSCs). By aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6.1, JJM aims to bridge the rural-urban divide, empower communities, and transform lives by freeing them from the drudgery of water collection.

Progress Across States: Triumphs and Challenges

Since its inception, JJM has made remarkable strides, transforming water access from a distant dream to a tangible reality. As of October 2024, over 15.5 crore rural households80.39% of the totalhave tap water connections, up from just 3.23 crore (17%) in 2019. This translates to an average of 85,000 households connected daily, a testament to the missions relentless pace. Eleven states and Union TerritoriesGoa, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Gujarat, Haryana, Telangana, Puducherry, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoramhave achieved 100% coverage, setting a benchmark for others. In aspirational districts, home to some of Indias poorest communities, tap connections have risen from 31 lakh to 1.16 crore, with 123 districts and 1.53 lakh villages now fully covered.

However, progress is uneven. States like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Kerala lag significantly behind the national average. Challenges in these states include uneven terrain, scattered habitations, groundwater contamination, and delays in state funding. To address these, the government has intensified monitoring, with technical support from UNOPS and Denmark in water-scarce regions like Bundelkhand and Vindhya. Despite these hurdles, JJMs focus on prioritising difficult terrains (30% funding weightage) and SC/ST-dominated areas (10% weightage) ensures that the poorest and most remote communities are not left behind.

A Boon for Hilly Areas

In Indias hilly regions, where geography poses unique challenges, JJM has been a game-changer. In states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh, the mission has overcome rugged terrain and seasonal water shortages to deliver tap water.

For instance, Leh in Ladakh achieved 100% household coverage by October 2024, with winter-proof pipelines preventing freezinga critical adaptation for high-altitude areas.

In Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, 31,371 households across 320 villages now have FHTCs, reducing the time spent fetching water from distant sources. Women in these regions, who once navigated treacherous paths to collect water, now benefit from doorstep access, saving hours daily. Community-driven initiatives, supported by organizations like Himmotthan Society, have trained locals to maintain water infrastructure, ensuring sustainability despite climatic barriers. These efforts demonstrate JJMs ability to tailor solutions to the unique needs of hilly areas, bringing dignity and ease to remote communities.

Enhancing Rural Life: Education, Health, and Beyond

The ripple effects of JJM extend far beyond water access, reshaping education, health, and socio-economic conditions in rural India. By providing tap water to 15.5 crore households, the mission has freed women and girls from the backbreaking task of fetching water, which previously consumed hours daily40 minutes one way in Jharkhand, 33 in Bihar, and 38 in Uttar Pradesh. In Tripura, 95% of women and adolescent girls reported relief from this drudgery, allowing them to pursue education and livelihoods.

An SBI Research report notes an 8.3% decline in households fetching water outside, correlating with a 7.4% increase in womens participation in agriculture, with states like Bihar and Assam seeing over 28% growth in female workforce engagement. This shift empowers women financially and redefines gender roles, fostering independence and dignity.

Health outcomes have also improved dramatically. JJMs focus on water quality, through Field Testing Kits and Iron Removal Plants in high-contamination areas like Tripura, has reduced waterborne diseases by 93% in some regions. In Leh, disease incidence dropped from 4% to 1.3%, while Karnataka villages reported lower healthcare costs due to cleaner water. Schools, too, have benefited from the scheme: 12 states have achieved 100% tap water coverage in schools, ensuring better hygiene and reducing absenteeism, particularly among girls. These improvements enhance educational outcomes and create healthier, more productive communities.

Economically, JJM stimulates rural growth by fostering local ownership through VWSCs, with over 50% women members in Assam and Tripura. Awareness campaigns, such as 560 training sessions in Karnataka and tariff collection in Leh and Himachal Pradesh, ensure long-term sustainability. By reducing time spent on water collection, JJM unlocks opportunities for income-generating activities, positioning Indias rural economy to grow from 2% to 8% of the global space market by 2033.

PM Modis Visionary Zeal: A Long-Overdue Revolution

The success of JJM reflects Prime Minister Modis visionary zeal and unrelenting drive to execute transformative change on a war footing. Decades ago, Indias rural water crisis should have been addressed, but it languished under leaders disconnected from the ground realities of village life. PM Modi, shaped by his experiences in drought-prone Gujarat, understood the agony of life without water".

His insistence on decentralizationempowering Gram Panchayats and Pani Samitis with over 2.25 lakh crorehas made JJM a village-driven, women-led movement. The missions scale, covering 600,000 villages and connecting 85,000 households daily, is unprecedented, surpassing seven decades of prior efforts in just five years.

PM Modis personal commitment is evident in his words: The value of water is understood by those who face scarcity." By prioritising water as a national mission, he has turned a basic need into a catalyst for social revolution. The Jal Jeevan Mission App and Water Quality Monitoring Framework ensure transparency, while partnerships with states, UNOPS, and Denmark amplify impact. This resolve, coupled with innovative solutions like IoT-based sensors and climate-resilient infrastructure, positions JJM as a global model for sustainable development. What should have happened generations ago took PM Modis will to transform rhetoric into reality, ensuring no rural family is left behind.

A Legacy of Transformation

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The Jal Jeevan Mission is more than a water supply programme its a lifeline for Indias poorest villages, redefining rural life with dignity, health, and opportunity. From the hills of Ladakh to the plains of Assam, JJM has delivered tap water to 15.5 crore households, empowered women, reduced disease, and unlocked educational and economic potential. While challenges remain in laggard states, the missions progressdriven by PM Modis visionary leadershipsets a new standard for public welfare. As India moves toward universal water access, JJM stands as a testament to what is possible when a nation unites with purpose, proving that clean water is not just a resource but a foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.

The writer is a well-known author and national spokesperson of BJP. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: August 13, 2025, 20:00 IST

News opinion Opinion: How PM Modis Jal Jeevan Mission Became A Boon For Indias Poorest Villages

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Opinion | Yunuss Year: Bangladeshs Descent Into Hate And Extremism

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 10:03 IST

The promise of democratic renewal has been eclipsed by division, persecution, and a troubling tolerance for extremism, threatening the nations secular and pluralistic foundations

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Far from a golden era, Yunuss tenure has coincided with a surge in communal violence. (AFP)

When Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate, became Chief Adviser to Bangladeshs interim government in August 2024, expectations were high that his leadership would stabilise the nation after Sheikh Hasinas ousting. Renowned for his microcredit work, Yunus was seen as a harbinger of reform. Yet, one year later, Bangladesh faces a grim reality of rising hate, Islamic extremism, targeted attacks on Hindus, and questionable global alliances.

Far from a golden era, Yunuss tenure has coincided with a surge in communal violence, with over 2,000 documented attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, since Hasinas departure, according to a local minority rights organisation. Temples, homes, and businesses have been vandalised, and figures like ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das face sedition charges for advocating minority rights, signalling a crackdown on dissent.

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Yunuss dismissal of these incidents as exaggerated propaganda" has drawn sharp criticism, with a UN report confirming widespread mob violence against Hindus, Ahmadiyya Muslims, and indigenous groups. The administrations failure to curb extremist elements, including the registration of a previously banned Islamist party as a political entity, has emboldened radical forces.

Additionally, Yunuss international engagements with figures tied to Islamist-leaning governments have raised concerns about Bangladeshs shift toward alliances that could destabilise regional security. As Bangladesh navigates this turbulent year, the promise of democratic renewal has been eclipsed by division, persecution, and a troubling tolerance for extremism, threatening the nations secular and pluralistic foundations.

Surge in Communal Violence Against Hindus

Since Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership in August 2024, Bangladesh has seen a sharp rise in communal violence targeting its Hindu minority, who comprise about 8 per cent of the population. A minority rights organisation has documented over 2,000 attacks on Hindus, including the destruction of 69 temples, nine deaths, and widespread looting of Hindu-owned businesses and homes. Reports describe incidents such as the burning of Hindu villages in Chittagong and the desecration of religious idols in Dhaka.

The arrest of ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das in November 2024, charged with sedition for leading protests demanding protections for minorities, underscores the governments harsh stance toward dissent. The violence surged after the fall of Sheikh Hasinas government, with mobs exploiting the political vacuum to target vulnerable communities. This has displaced thousands of Hindus, many fleeing to India, straining bilateral ties.

Critics argue that Yunuss administration has failed to deploy sufficient security or pursue prosecutions, creating a perception of tacit complicity. The lack of decisive action has fuelled fears of a systematic campaign to marginalise minorities, threatening Bangladeshs social cohesion and raising questions about the interim governments commitment to protecting all citizens equally.

Rise of Islamic Extremism

Yunuss interim government has been criticised for enabling a resurgence of Islamic extremist groups, undermining Bangladeshs secular identity. The registration of a previously banned Islamist party as a political entity in late 2024 has sparked widespread alarm.

Reports highlight the growing influence of radical groups, exemplified by the forced cancellation of a Sufi cultural festival in Kushtia due to threats from Islamist factions. Investigations indicate that student-led protests in 2024, initially sparked by job quota disputes, were infiltrated by radical elements, with the government failing to curb their influence. The release of over 50 individuals facing terror-related charges, including members of banned organisations, has further heightened concerns. These developments suggest a growing tolerance for extremist ideologies, reminiscent of past incidents like the 2016 cafe attack that killed 22 people.

The administrations lenient approach has raised fears that Bangladesh could become a hub for militancy, threatening both domestic stability and regional security, as radical rhetoric gains traction without sufficient oversight or intervention.

Denial and Inaction on Minority Persecution

Yunuss dismissal of minority attacks as exaggerated propaganda" during a December 2024 press conference has drawn sharp criticism from international and local observers. A UN report from February 2025 documented systematic mob violence" against Hindus, Ahmadiyya Muslims, and indigenous communities, contradicting Yunuss claims. The report detailed over 1,500 cases of arson, assault, and property destruction, with police often absent or complicit.

Critics have noted the governments failure to establish an independent commission to investigate these incidents, with only 3 per cent of reported cases leading to arrests. The detention of ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das without bail has become a focal point of outrage, with global leaders highlighting Bangladeshs shrinking democratic space. The administrations inaction has fostered a climate of impunity, allowing perpetrators to act without fear of consequences.

This failure to address minority persecution undermines Bangladeshs constitutional commitment to secularism and pluralism, risking further alienation of its diverse communities and eroding public trust in the interim governments ability to uphold justice.

Problematic Global Alliances

Yunuss foreign policy has raised alarms about Bangladeshs shifting alignments, particularly its growing closeness with Pakistan and China, which has coincided with a deteriorating relationship with India.

Since August 2024, the interim government has pursued stronger ties with Pakistan, marked by high-level diplomatic exchanges and trade discussions, despite historical tensions rooted in the 1971 Liberation War. Simultaneously, Bangladesh has deepened its economic and military cooperation with China, including agreements on infrastructure projects and arms purchases, as noted in regional analyses. These moves have strained ties with India, a traditional ally, which has expressed concerns over Bangladeshs reluctance to address cross-border security issues, including the refusal to extradite terror suspects.

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The interim governments silence on smuggling along the India-Bangladesh border has further exacerbated tensions. A US report highlighting Bangladesh as a potential conduit for terror financing has intensified scrutiny of Yunuss pragmatic diplomacy," which critics argue prioritises alliances with Islamist-leaning and geopolitically contentious actors over regional stability. This shift risks isolating India, a key economic and security partner, while emboldening Pakistan and China, whose influence could undermine Bangladeshs non-aligned stance. The administrations failure to balance these relationships threatens to destabilise South Asia, raising questions about its commitment to fostering cooperative regional dynamics.

The author teaches journalism at St Xaviers College (autonomous), Kolkata. His handle on X is @sayantan_gh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

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Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh

First Published: August 13, 2025, 10:03 IST

News opinion Opinion | Yunuss Year: Bangladeshs Descent Into Hate And Extremism

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Straight Talk | Bharats Original Sin: Partition Was Not Freedom, But Civilisational Betrayal

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 15:29 IST

The cruel irony of partition is that it was agreed to by a generation that had produced some of India's greatest sons.

In this September 1947, file photo, hundreds of Muslim refugees crowd on top a train leaving New Delhi for Pakistan. (AP Photo)

For thousands of years, Bharat had stood as an unbroken testament to civilisational resistance. This was the land where Prithviraj Chauhan fought seventeen battles against Muhammad Ghori, capturing and releasing him repeatedly rather than executing an unarmed enemy  only to pay the ultimate price for his adherence to dharmic principles. This was the soil where Maharana Pratap chose a lifetime of guerrilla warfare in the Aravalli hills rather than bow before Akbar, declaring through his very defiance that Mewar would rather die than submit". This was the land where Guru Gobind Singh and his 40 Sikhs put up their last stand against lakhs of Mughal marauders at Chamkaur Sahib.

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It was also here that Chhatrapati Shivaji carved out Hindu Swarajya from the heart of Mughal-dominated Deccan  showing that indigenous dharmic rule was not just possible but essential. These warriors understood what their descendants forgot in 1947: that Bharat was not merely a piece of real estate to be divided among competing claims, but a sacred geography consecrated by the blood of countless martyrs who chose death over dishonour.

The heroes of Bharats past would have been bewildered by the events of 1947. For centuries, they had held a simple truth: the motherland was indivisible, not because of political convenience but because of spiritual principle. When Rani Padmini chose jauhar over surrender at Chittorgarh, when fifty thousand defenders died at Somnath rather than abandon their sacred duty, when Bhagat Singh walked to the gallows declaring Inquilab Zindabad," they were asserting a fundamental belief that some things are worth more than life itself  and the unity of Bharat was foremost among them.

When Giants Bowed to Pygmies

The cruel irony of partition is that it was agreed to by a generation that had produced some of Indias greatest sons. Gandhi, who had inspired millions around the world with his principle of ahimsa and satyagraha, ultimately acquiesced to a solution that guaranteed unprecedented violence. Nehru, the architect" of modern India, accepted the vivisection of the very nation he claimed to love. The Congress leadership, which had spent decades demanding Purna Swaraj," settled for a truncated independence that mocked their own ideals.

These leaders forgot the lessons written in blood across Indian history. They forgot that Bharats civilisational strength lay not in accommodation with those who sought to divide her, but in the unwavering resolve of those who understood that some compromises are tantamount to suicide. When Subuktigins forces faced Jayapalas confederation, the Hindu king sent this message: You have heard and know the nobleness of Indiansthey fear not death or destruction. In affairs of honour and renown we would place ourselves upon the fire like roast meat, and upon the dagger like the sunrays".

This was the spirit that had sustained Bharat through centuries of invasion and upheaval. The Sikhs who lived as sovereign people in open defiance of Mughal rule, the Rajputs who fought at Haldighati, the Marathas who challenged Mughal supremacy for over a century, the countless unnamed warriors who chose martyrdom over submissionthey would have been stunned to see their descendants voluntarily handing over vast swathes of their homeland to those who demanded it.

The Numbers Tell the Story of Betrayal

The numbers alone reveal the magnitude of this tragedy. Between 14.5 and 18 million people were displaced in what historians now recognise as the largest forced migration in modern history. Conservative estimates place the death toll at one million, though scholars like those at Harvard suggest the true figure could be as high as 3.5 million. In Punjab alone, virtually no Hindus or Sikhs survived in the western region. The violence was organised, systematic, and genocidal in its intent.

Women bore the brunt of partitions savagery. Thousands were raped, with many facing mutilation or death. Pregnant women were disemboweled, infants killed by smashing their heads against walls, and entire train cars became mobile slaughterhouses. This was butchery on an industrial scale.

The economic devastation was equally catastrophic. India lost 75% of its jute production and 40% of its cotton supply to Pakistan, while being deprived of vital wheat-growing regions. The railway system, built over nearly a century, was brutally severed. By 1951, Indias railway network had shrunk from 65,217 kilometers to just 53,168 kilometers. The refugee rehabilitation costs alone consumed over a million rupees daily, resources that could have been devoted to development.

The British Escape: Washing Hands of Responsibility

Lord Mountbattens role in this disaster cannot be understated. Tasked with transferring power by June 1948, he inexplicably moved the date forward to August 1947, giving himself just five weeks to divide 400 million people. He brought in Sir Cyril Radcliffe, a lawyer who had never set foot in India, to draw borders that would determine the fate of millions. Radcliffe himself later admitted he had no knowledge of Indian geography, culture, or demographics, and yet his lines condemned millions to death and displacement.

Britain, exhausted by World War II and facing potential civil war in India, chose to cut and run rather than manage an orderly transition. The British demobilised troops who might have maintained order while leaving behind armed ex-soldiers who became the core of the communal militias that perpetrated the worst violence. They created the conditions for catastrophe and then fled, leaving Indians to deal with the consequences

Modis Recognition: Confronting the Original Sin"

By declaring August 14 as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Modi has forced the nation to confront a truth that post-independence India had preferred to ignore. What could have been a heroic culmination of a freedom struggle, by August 1947 became a civilisational failure that contradicted everything Bharat had stood for across centuries of resistance.

The remembrance serves a crucial purpose beyond honouring the dead and displaced. It reminds us that the forces that made partition possiblethe willingness to sacrifice principles for political gains, the acceptance of foreign-imposed solutions to indigenous problems, the abandonment of civilisational wisdom in favour of modern" political convenienceremain active today.

Modis decision acknowledges what Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and countless other martyrs would have immediately understood: that partition represented the first time in Bharats long history when its own children agreed to dismember their mother. For a civilisation that had produced the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"  the world as one family  the acceptance of permanent division based on religious identity was not just political failure but spiritual bankruptcy.

The Ghosts That Still Walk Among Us

Seventy-seven years later, partition continues to extract its price. Every border skirmish, every communal riot, every missed opportunity for regional cooperation can trace its roots back to August 1947. The billions spent on defense, the resources devoted to maintaining hostile borders, the human potential wasted in cycles of suspicion and conflict  all are glowing tributes to partitions destructive and bloody legacy.

But the deepest wound is not economic or political, but civilisational. Partition represented the moment when Bharat abandoned the dharmic principle that had sustained her through millennia of trials. The ancient understanding that the motherland was sacred and indivisible, that some principles were worth more than political convenience, that resistance to civilisational destruction was a sacred duty  all were sacrificed on the altar of modern political pragmatism.

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The tragedy is not just what happened, but what might have been. A united subcontinent would today stand as a civilisational superpower, combining the worlds largest population with ancient wisdom and modern capabilities. Instead, we remain prisoners of a decision made in haste and regretted at leisure, our potential constrained by borders drawn by those who understood neither our history nor our soul.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

About the Author Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics. Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a producer and video journalist at Network18. He is enthusiastic about and writes on both national affairs as well as geopolitics.

First Published: August 13, 2025, 15:29 IST

News opinion Straight Talk | Bharats Original Sin: Partition Was Not Freedom, But Civilisational Betrayal

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:58 IST

1 / 5 The price of gold has seen a steady rise. Not long ago, it remained within Rs 50,000, but it is now nearing Rs 1 lakh. In Delhi, 10 grams of 24-carat gold is priced at Rs 1,02,640, with 22-carat rates also close to this.

2 / 5 This rate is largely consistent across cities in the country. Gold, which once cost around Rs 30,000, has crossed Rs 1 lakh by July 2025. Over the past six years, prices have risen by nearly 200%.

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3 / 5 The rise in gold prices is largely attributed to global tensions, according to experts. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, along with the conflict between Iran and Israel, has contributed to the surge. Additionally, the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and broader uncertainties have further driven prices upward.

4 / 5 Gold has long been considered a safe investment. In April 2025, 10 grams of gold touched Rs 1,01,078 on the MCX. According to Live Mint, at this pace, experts estimate that the price of 10 grams could reach Rs 2,25,000 within the next five years. Between 2019 and 2025, gold prices have risen at an average annual rate of 18%, which, if sustained, could push prices towards Rs 2.5 lakh.

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:12 IST

1 / 8 Perplexity AI offered Google $34.5 billion for its popular Chrome web browser, which the internet giant could potentially be forced to sell as part of antitrust proceedings. (File Photo)

2 / 8 The sum proposed in a letter of intent by Perplexity is nearly double the value of the startup, which is reportedly $18 billion in recent funding round. (File Photo)

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3 / 8 Reportedly, the three-year-old company has raised around $1 billion in funding so far from the investors, including Nvidia and Japans Soft Bank. (Image: Reuters)

4 / 8 In the letter, Perplexity chief executive Aravind Srinivas said, "This proposal is designed to satisfy an antitrust remedy in the highest public interest by placing Chrome with a capable, independent operator focused on continuity, openness, and consumer protection." (File Photo)

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5 / 8 Meanwhile, heres a throwback to when Google tried selling its search engine and PageRank system. (File Photo)

6 / 8 In 1999, Googles founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, offered to see the search engine to Excite for $1 million, which was eventually negotiated to $7,50,000. However, Excites CEO rejected the offer. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

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7 / 8 Reportedly, in 1998, Yahoo had the chance to acquire Google for $1 million. However, it decided against the acquisition, dismissing the potential of the search engine. (File Photo)
Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 15:11 IST

On August 15 every year, India celebrates her independence. Hoisting the national flag forms an integral part of the celebration.

1 / 10 On August 15, Independence Day is celebrated across the country. It is customary for the prime minister to hoist the Indian Tricolour at the Red Fort, Delhi. (Image: File photo)

2 / 10 On Independence Day, the flag is raised from the bottom of the flagpole to the top, symbolising Indias victory over colonial rule in 1947. In the constitution, it is called Flag Hoisting. On the other hand, on the occasion of January 26  Republic Day, the flag remains tied at the top, which is then opened and hoisted. In the constitution, it is called Flag Unfurling. (Image: X)

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3 / 10 According to Paragraph 2.2 of the Flag Code of India, any citizen, private organisation, or educational institution can hoist or display the national flag at home or office. (Image: File photo)

4 / 10 After the July 20, 2022, amendment, the flag can be flown both day and night, as long as it is displayed with respect. Earlier, the flag could only be flown during the day. (Image: AI-Generated)

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5 / 10 When hoisting the flag, the saffron band should always be on top. The flag must also be rectangular in shape, with a 3:2 length-to-height ratio. (Image: Shailendra Bhojak/PTI)

6 / 10 It is also to be noted that the national flag should be made of either cotton, polyester, wool, silk, or khadi. (Image: File photo)

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7 / 10 Make sure you do not hoist a damaged flag or display it upside down. (Image: AI-Generated)

8 / 10 Never let the flag touch the ground, floor, or water. (Image: AI-Generated)

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9 / 10 Another important thing to keep in mind is that no other flag should be above or next to the Tricolour on the same pole. (Image: AI-Generated)
CNN name, logo and all associated elements  and  2024 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All rights reserved. CNN and the CNN logo are registered marks of Cable News Network, LP LLLP, displayed with permission. Use of the CNN name and/or logo on or as part of NEWS18.com does not derogate from the intellectual property rights of Cable News Network in respect of them.  Copyright Network18 Media and Investments Ltd 2024. All rights reserved.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 15:37 IST

1 / 12 Hai apna dil to awara, na jaane kis par aayega  a timeless Bollywood lyric immortalised by the evergreen romantic hero, Dev Anand. Incredibly, these words echoed his real life: Dev Anands off-screen world was just as vibrant as his on-screen persona.

2 / 12 He fell for an inexperienced actress during a film shoot and quietly married her, shocking both the film fraternity and his adoring fans. Curious who this little-known heroine was, who defied religious boundaries for love and performed only alongside her one and only leading man?

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3 / 12 Dev Anand was Bollywoods original style icon, known for his suave delivery, distinctive dialogue, and iconic haircut that many tried to copy. His signature ensemble, black coat over a white shirt, became so peculiar, it even sparked a ban in court proceedings!

4 / 12 Hailing from Gurdaspur, Pakistan, Dev Anand graduated in English from Lahore in 1942. He aspired to further his studies, but financial constraints intervened. In 1945, he arrived in Mumbai with merely Rs 20 to his name.

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5 / 12 Without a proper home, he shared a modest room near the railway station with three other ambitious souls. As his funds dwindled, he took a job at the Military Censor Office, reading soldiers letters for a salary of Rs 165 per month.

6 / 12 About a year later, he turned to his elder brother, Chetan Anand, already a respected figure in cinema. Chetan Anand gave him small roles, and eventually, Dev Anand made his debut in 1946 with Hum Ek Hain. While the film flopped, his next movie, Ziddi (1948), shot him into overnight stardom. He went on to star in 112 films, including timeless classics such as Taxi Driver (1954), CID (1956), Paying Guest (1957), Nau Do Gyarah (1957), Kala Paani (1958), AsliNaqli (1962), Guide (1965), Jewel Thief (1967), Johny Mera Naam (1970), TereMere Sapne (1971), Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971) and Heera Panna (1973).

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7 / 12 In that era, life moved at a gentler pace and deep feelings reigned supreme. Dev Anand was profoundly in love with Suraiya, although her family opposed their romance due to religious differences. Suraiya never married, remaining devoted to her affection for him.

8 / 12 While filming Taxi Driver, Dev Anand fell for his co-star Mona, later rechristened Kalpana Karthik. Their friendship blossomed into love.

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9 / 12 One lunch break during the shoot, both vanished together. When they reappeared, a sharp-eyed cameraman noticed a new ring on Dev Anands hand. He was discreet enough to ask the cameraman to keep quiet.

10 / 12 Later, it emerged that they had quietly married in secret. Dev Anand didnt want to make a public spectacle of it; marriage, he said, is a private matter.

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11 / 12 Kalpana Karthik, born Mona Singha into a Christian-Punjabi family, adopted her screen name when Chetan Anand cast her in Baazi (1951). Before entering films, she had competed in the Miss Shimla contest, where she caught Chetan Anand s eye (they were cousins by marriage).
DHAKA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladeshi government has raised its export target by 16.5 percent to 63.5 billion U.S. dollars for the current fiscal 2025-2026 year from July 2025 to June 2026.

Bangladeshi Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin made the announcement at a press conference here on Tuesday.

According to the minister, 55 billion dollars will come from goods exports and 8.5 billion dollars from the service sector. The adviser expressed the hope that the export target is achievable. 
'Decision In Place Since 1988': Fadnavis Clarifies Amid Row Over Independence Day Meat Ban

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 21:08 IST

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis cited a 1988 state government resolution empowering civic bodies to impose such restrictions

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis the state government is not interested in policing people's food choices. (Image: PTI/File)

After nearly half a dozen civic bodies in Maharashtra ordered closure of meat shops and abattoirs on Independence Day, the BJP made a clarification amid an intensifying controversy over the move.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis cited a 1988 state government resolution (GR) empowering civic bodies to impose such restrictions. He said this is not a new decision and has been in place since 1988, also existing when the Uddhav Thackeray-led government was in power.

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He said the state government is not interested in policing peoples food choices, but did not make it clear if the ban will be removed.

This decision has been in place since 1988, we have not made any new decision. Even when Uddhav Thackeray was the chief minister, this decision existed, and it is still in place now. We have not taken any new decision," Fadnavis told reporters.

Watch the video here:

Mumbai, Maharashtra: On the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation's (KDMC) order banning meat sales on Independence Day, CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "This decision has been in place since 1988, we have not made any new decision. Even when Uddhav Thackeray was the Chief Minister, pic.twitter.com/Rf8Cq3EFdD IANS (@ians_india) August 13, 2025

Municipal corporations in Nagpur, Nashik, Malegaon, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Kalyan-Dombivli have issued orders directing closure of slaughterhouses and meat shops within their jurisdiction on August 15. Some of them have said these facilities will remain shut on certain other days, too, in view of Hindu and Jain festivals.

He, however, asserted that the state government was not interested in regulating peoples food choices and described the row over abattoir closures on Independence Day as an unnecessary" controversy.

The state government is not interested in (knowing) who eats what. We have many other issues to address," he said.

RULE MADE BY CONGRESS? NCP QUESTIONS BAN

The Ajit Pawar-led NCP, which is a part of the ruling Mahayuti government, has questioned the closure of meat shops on August 15 even as opposition parties criticised the move.

The BJP, however, said the policy to keep abattoirs shut on Independence Day was originally framed by the Congress government then led by Shankarrao Chavan in 1988 and first implemented when NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar took over as chief minister.

Within a month in 1988, Sharad Pawar became the chief minister and implemented the policy for the first time," state BJP chief spokesperson Keshav Upadhye said.

Upadhye asked NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, who have opposed the closure, if they will question Sharad Pawar about the policy. He said during the MVA government (November 2019 to June 2022), in which both Awhad and Thackeray were ministers, the same practice continued without any protest from them.

Will they seek a response from Sharad Pawar for taking such a decision back then? Will they criticise him too? Awhad and Thackeray should respond to it now," he said. Both (Awhad and Thackeray) have lost their (original) parties and government. Therefore, they are depressed and find fault with any decision to target the state government."

Aaditya earlier said the Kalyan-Dombivli civic commissioner should be suspended as it was not for him to dictate peoples dietary choices. The Congress, meanwhile, claimed the Mahayuti government was creating controversies on nonsensical" issues such as pigeon-feeding in cities and banning meat sale on Independence Day to divert attention from serious issues.

A day ago, deputy CM Ajit Pawar expressed displeasure over the closure of slaughterhouses and shops selling meat on August 15 saying it was wrong to impose such a ban.

He said such types of restrictions are generally imposed considering faith-related sensitivities on occasions like Ashadhi Ekadashi, Mahashivratri, and Mahavir Jayanti.

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It is wrong to impose such a ban. In major cities, people of different castes and religions reside. If it is an emotional issue, then people accept it (ban) for a day. But if you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," he added.

(With agency inputs)

About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing impactful st... Read More

First Published: August 13, 2025, 20:51 IST

News politics 'Decision In Place Since 1988': Fadnavis Clarifies Amid Row Over Independence Day Meat Ban

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EC Should Debate Rahul Gandhi Or Accept Fault: Aaditya Thackeray At News18 Townhall

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 17:09 IST

Thackeray alleged that vote chori (vote theft) had indeed taken place, accusing the Election Commission (EC) of compromising the integrity of elections.

Aaditya Thackeray speaks at the CNN-News18 Townhall, Mumbai edition.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday said the Election Commission of India must come clean and have a debate with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on the voter chori" issue. Speaking at the CNN-News18 Townhall, Mumbai edition, Thackeray also questioned why the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was getting rattled" by the INDIA bloc raising concerns about alleged fake voters" in Lok Sabha elections.

A complete clean-up is expected about the vote-chori. EC should come out and have a debate with Rahul Gandhi or accept their fault. It is the biggest crime to commit in the worlds biggest democracy," Thackeray said.

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We are asking questions from the Election Commission, but why is BJP getting rattled," he questioned, speaking at the CNN-News18 Townhall, Mumbai edition.

#CNNNews18Townhall | A complete clean-up is expected about the vote-chori. EC should come out and have a debate with Rahul Gandhi or accept their fault. It is the biggest crime to commit in the worlds biggest democracy: @AUThackeray, Shiv Sena UBT#VoteTheft | @Zakka_Jacob pic.twitter.com/5H482KXVM7 News18 (@CNNnews18) August 13, 2025

Thackeray alleged that vote chori" (vote theft) had indeed taken place, accusing the Election Commission (EC) of compromising the integrity of elections over the past several years. For the last 78 years, the EC has prevented free and fair elections in India," he claimed, arguing that the institutions credibility was at stake.

Thackeray further alleged that the irregularities were benefiting one political party in particular. Extra voters and fake votes are going to BJP," he charged, pointing to what he described as systemic issues that tilted the playing field.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader maintained that his partys demands were rooted in democratic principles rather than partisan politics. We only want the EC to come clean," he said, framing the issue as a test of institutional accountability in Indias electoral democracy.

Not Against Any Language

Thackeray also addressed the ongoing row over Marathi language, stressing that Maharashtra had always welcomed people from across India. We are not against any language our state accepts people from all the states," he said.

However, he accused the BJP of trying to impose a third language as Hindi" on Class 3 students, arguing that such moves disregarded local culture and identity. He described recent clashes over language as sporadic incidents" but said they reflected deeper tensions.

You should respect local culture, local language and local heroes," Thackeray insisted, adding that such respect stems from genuine attachment to the state. Responding to why parties like the MNS or Shiv Sena (UBT) were often at the forefront of these disputes, he remarked, Because you feel for the state  and BJP does not feel for the state."

Thackeray framed the language issue as one of cultural preservation, warning against any policy that could dilute Maharashtras linguistic heritage.

Pahalgam Attack, IndiaPakistan Cricket and Bangladesh

Turning to national security, Thackeray criticised the government over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. How did the terrorist go on a rampage and enter India this is a failure," he said, questioning gaps in security.

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He also targeted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for continuing cricket ties with Pakistan. Why is BCCI playing cricket with Pakistan," he asked. If the government is saying China is supporting Pakistan, then why is the PM going to China," he added.

On Bangladesh, Thackeray pointed to atrocities against Hindus and questioned the rationale for sporting engagements. See the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh why is BCCI inviting Bangladesh for a bilateral cricket series in India," he said, calling for a policy aligning sports diplomacy with national interests.

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: August 13, 2025, 16:49 IST

News politics EC Should Debate Rahul Gandhi Or Accept Fault: Aaditya Thackeray At News18 Townhall

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Sonia Gandhis Name Was On Voters List Before She Became Indian Citizen: BJP On Rahuls SIR Claims

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:02 IST

BJP's Amit Malviya said: Sonia Gandhis name entered electoral rolls twice without meeting citizenship requirement  first as an Italian citizen in 1980, and then in 1983..."

Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. (PTI File)

While Congress leader and leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has been raising questions on the Election Commissions (EC) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has hit back, pointing out how the name of his mother and Congress leader, Sonia Gandhi, was added to the list even before she became an Indian citizen.

Sonia Gandhis tryst with Indias voters list is riddled with glaring violations of electoral law. This perhaps explains Rahul Gandhis fondness for regularising ineligible and illegal voters, and his opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)," said BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya in a post on X.

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Her name first appeared on the rolls in 1980  three years before she became an Indian citizen and while she still held Italian citizenship. At the time, the Gandhi family lived at 1, Safdarjung Road, the official residence of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Until then, the voters registered at that address were Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, and Maneka Gandhi," he added.

Sonia Gandhis tryst with Indias voters list is riddled with glaring violations of electoral law. This perhaps explains Rahul Gandhis fondness for regularising ineligible and illegal voters, and his opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).Her name first appeared pic.twitter.com/upl1LM8Xhl  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) August 13, 2025

In 1980, the electoral rolls of the New Delhi parliamentary constituency were revised with January 1, 1980, as the qualifying date. During this revision, Sonia Gandhis name was added, appearing at serial number 388 in polling station 145. This entry was a clear violation of the law, which requires a person to be an Indian citizen to be registered as a voter," he wrote.

Following an outcry in 1982, her name was deleted from the list  only to reappear in 1983. But even her reinstatement raised serious questions. In the fresh revision of the electoral rolls that year, Sonia Gandhi was listed at serial number 236 in polling station 140. The qualifying date for registration was January 1, 1983  yet she was granted Indian citizenship only on April 30, 1983," said Malviya.

He said: In other words, Sonia Gandhis name entered the electoral rolls twice without meeting the basic citizenship requirement  first as an Italian citizen in 1980, and then again in 1983, months before she legally became a citizen of India. We are not even asking why it took her 15 years after marrying Rajiv Gandhi to accept Indian citizenship. If this isnt blatant electoral malpractice, what is?"

Vote Chori is an attack on the foundational idea of one man, one vote.A clean voter roll is imperative for free and fair elections. Our demand from the EC is clear  be transparent and release digital voter rolls so that people and parties can audit them. Join us and https://t.co/4V9pOpGP68  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 10, 2025

Gandhi last week launched a campaign against what he called vote chori" by the EC in collusion with the BJP through the SIR. He gave several examples to substantiate his allegations that votes are being stolen, there are duplicate voters, those with fake and invalid addresses, bulk voters or single address voters, voters with invalid photos and those misusing Form 6 of new voters.

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He alleged it was institutionalised theft and that SIR would lead to the disenfranchisement of large numbers of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like minorities, who might struggle to produce the strict documentation required.

As Opposition MPs wore T-shirts with messages on 124-year-old voter Minta Devi" on Bihar voters list on Tuesday, Gandhi said, This is not just one seat, there are lots of seats. It is being done on the national level, systematically. The Election Commission knows it, we know it. We are protecting the Constitution. The Election Commission is not doing its duty of enforcing One Man, One Vote which is the foundation of the Constitution. There are countless cases like Minta Devi. We are only protecting the Constitution. We will keep doing it. There are unlimited cases. We wont stop. Picture abhi baaki hai."

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: August 13, 2025, 11:48 IST

News politics Sonia Gandhis Name Was On Voters List Before She Became Indian Citizen: BJP On Rahuls SIR Claims

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Those Inciting Violence In The Name Of Marathi Don't Understand The Language: Fadnavis At News18 Townhall

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 20:04 IST

The chief minister pointed out a perceived hypocrisy where those who oppose Hindi and other Indian languages readily embrace English with a 'red carpet'

The chief minister advocated for a balance between regional pride and national unity. (Image: News18)

At the CNN-News18 Townhall in Mumbai on Wednesday, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the topic of Marathi culture and language, underscoring a stance of pride and unity while strongly condemning language-based incitement and violence. He stated that those attempting to incite people on the basis of language do not truly understand Marathi culture, which he described as one of inclusivity and respect.

Fadnavis credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP for giving due respect to Marathi culture and language, suggesting that their administration has been a champion for the regions linguistic and cultural identity. He contrasted this with the actions of certain groups", pointing out a perceived hypocrisy where those who oppose Hindi and other Indian languages readily embrace English with a red carpet".

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He underscored the importance of protecting Marathis identity without resorting to animosity towards other languages. Fadnavis reiterated that it is not wrong to be proud of the Marathi language, but any form of hooliganism or violence in its name will not be tolerated. He noted that the government has taken strict legal action against such incidents and will continue to do so, highlighting a commitment to law and order.

At the townhall, the chief minister advocated for a balance between regional pride and national unity. He presented Marathi culture not as a tool for division but as a source of strength and heritage that should be celebrated responsibly and peacefully.

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: August 13, 2025, 20:04 IST

News politics Those Inciting Violence In The Name Of Marathi Don't Understand The Language: Fadnavis At News18 Townhall

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What We Eat Is Our Freedom: Opposition Hits Out At Civic Orders Closing Meat Shops On I-Day

Curated By :



Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 11:19 IST

NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad went a step further, saying he would eat non-vegetarian food on August 15 in protest against the ban.

The controversy gained momentum after civic bodies in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Kalyan-Dombivli, and reportedly Malegaon issued orders for a one-day ban on slaughter and meat sales. (Pics: PTI)

A political row has erupted after several civic bodies across the country ordered the closure of slaughterhouses and meat shops in several cities on August 15, with Opposition leaders calling the move unconstitutional" and an attack on personal liberty.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for following the example of other municipal bodies in imposing the ban. This is callous and unconstitutional. Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day? 99% of Telanganas people eat meat. These meat bans violate peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition and religion," Owaisi said.

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Many municipal corporations across India seemed to have ordered that slaughterhouses and meat shops should be closed on 15th August. Unfortunately, @GHMCOnline has also made a similar order. This is callous and unconstitutional.Whats the connection between eating meat and  Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) August 13, 2025

In Maharashtra, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray lashed out at the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC), which reportedly ordered the closure of all slaughterhouses and meat shops on August 15. What we eat on Independence Day is our right, our freedom. They cannot tell us whether to eat veg or non-veg. We will definitely eat non-veg. In our house, even on Navratri, our prasad has prawns and fish, because this is our tradition, this is our Hinduism. This is not a matter of religion, and it is not a matter of national interest," Thackeray said, demanding the KDMC commissioners suspension.

#WATCH | Mumbai: On Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation reportedly ordered the closure of all slaughterhouses and meat shops on August 15, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray says, In our house, even on Navratri, our prasad has prawns, fish, because this is our tradition, pic.twitter.com/ivxVhjHw2i ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also opposed the move, saying such restrictions are generally reserved for occasions with faith-related sensitivities like Ashadhi Ekadashi or Mahashivratri. It is wrong to impose such a ban If you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," Pawar said.

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NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad went a step further, saying he would eat non-vegetarian food on August 15 in protest against the ban.

The controversy gained momentum after civic bodies in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Kalyan-Dombivli, and reportedly Malegaon issued orders for a one-day ban on slaughter and meat sales, citing festivals coinciding with Independence Day.

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: August 13, 2025, 11:19 IST

News politics What We Eat Is Our Freedom: Opposition Hits Out At Civic Orders Closing Meat Shops On I-Day

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Microsoft Edge Vs Google Chrome: How The 90s Browser War Is Back With An AI Twist

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: August 12, 2025, 20:14 IST

Google is now backing an industry coalition called the Browser Choice Alliance (BCA), which counts Opera, Vivaldi, and other smaller browser developers among its members

Google has challenged Microsoft's AI strategy with Browser Choice Alliance.

Nearly a quarter century after it was accused of using its dominance in the personal computer market to push Internet Explorer onto millions of users, Microsoft once again finds itself at the centre of a browser war. The company had faced a bruising antitrust battle in the late 1990s, a case it ultimately lost, and spent years rebuilding its image.

Now, under CEO Satya Nadellas leadership and powered by an aggressive artificial intelligence strategy, Microsoft has returned to the top ranks of the tech industry. But this time, the challenger is Google, and the roles have reversed.

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Google is now backing an industry coalition called the Browser Choice Alliance (BCA), which counts Opera, Vivaldi, and other smaller browser developers among its members. The groups mission is to pressure Microsoft to stop what it claims are unfair tactics to promote the Edge browser through Windows.

While BCA has multiple participants, Google is its largest financial backer, an unsurprising fact given that browser dominance directly affects Googles control over the search market.

According to the alliance, Microsoft is once again using its operating system to give Edge an edge, this time by leveraging AI. Microsoft has integrated its AI-powered Copilot" assistant directly into Edge, offering features ranging from tab management to task automation. The BCA claims this integration is paired with dark patterns", subtle interface choices that make it harder for users to switch browsers. These reportedly include warning messages when downloading competitors browsers and system resets that restore Edge as the default.

The stakes are high because the AI race is increasingly being fought on desktop and laptop computers. While smartphones dominate daily usage, the desktop remains the tool of choice for professional and productivity-heavy work. Microsofts approach appears aimed at making Edge the go-to AI browser" before rivals can catch up.

Regulatory pressure is mounting. In Europe, the BCA has filed complaints alleging Microsoft is skirting new competition rules, while in Brazil, Opera has lodged a formal grievance accusing the company of harassing users who try to switch browsers.

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The irony is not lost on industry observers. Google, which itself has faced criticism for aggressively promoting Chrome, is now championing fair competition" in the browser market. BCA members argue that genuine rivalry benefits both consumers and the broader tech sector.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Internet Explorer reigned supreme after being bundled with Windows starting in 1995. By 2002, its market share exceeded 95 percent, but complacency and lack of innovation left it vulnerable. Mozilla Firefoxs launch in 2004 dealt the first blow, and Google Chromes debut in 2008 finished the job. Chromes speed, minimalist design, and developer-friendly features propelled it past IE by 2012, and today it holds more than 60 percent of the global market.

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.

First Published: August 12, 2025, 20:14 IST

News tech Microsoft Edge Vs Google Chrome: How The 90s Browser War Is Back With An AI Twist

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Pixel 10 Series Full Leak Shows Us New Colours, Specs And More

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:52 IST

Google Pixel 10 launch is a week away and the new leak looks to confirm all the new Pixel 10 model colours.

Google will launch Pixel 10 with new AI features and this new ad shows where Apple is lacking

Google Pixel 10 colours have leaked in a new post from a reliable tipster with a solid record over the years. The Pixel 10 launch is on August 20 in New York, where we will see the new Pixel 10 along with the 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL and the 10 Pro Fold models. The new leaks come via Evan Blass aka Evleaks once again, who shares the Pixel 10 series in all its colours except for the new Pixel 10 foldable.

Pixel 10 Colours Leaked: Here You Go

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The Blass leaks are as close to official renders as it can get. And his record has been good enough for people to see these as the real deal. Here are the new colours coming with the Pixel 10 model this year

The bright colours are seemingly coming back with the Pixel 10 along with the usual Obsidian black in the mix.

You also have new colour options with the Pixel 10 Pro version and these three variants should be coming to most markets.

Even the 10 Pro XL will get these identical colour options along with a new green variant in the market.

Blass had recently shared more details around the new Pixel 10 models. He shared a post on X where it says, the Pixel 10, 10 Pro and the 10 Pro XL will not have regular SIM tray, instead support eSIM connectivity.

It is intriguing to see Blass share the details, and also points out that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold model will have both the SIM options, which has seemingly been covered via multiple design leaks of the new Pixel foldable.

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He is quick to mention that Google might keep the eSIM models limited to the US market, which is what Apple has done with its iPhones in the last few years in its home market.

Google is likely to persist with regular Pixel 10 variants in markets like India, Europe and other countries for a few more years. Google could also have a few products lining up, and some more updates around the new Android 16 version and Gemini AI updates for these devices.

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

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Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: August 13, 2025, 08:52 IST

News tech Pixel 10 Series Full Leak Shows Us New Colours, Specs And More

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In Rare Surgery, Patna Doctors Remove Tooth Growing Under 45-Year-Old Patient's Eye

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 15:26 IST

Doctors were stunned to find a tooth lodged in the bone beneath the patients eye, with roots extending into the eye socket, an extremely rare condition

The condition, termed 'tooth in the eye', is extremely rare. (Local18)

In a shocking case at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS) in Patna, doctors encountered a highly unusual condition that sparked widespread discussion throughout the hospital. Ravi Kumar (name changed), a 45-year-old from Siwan district, had been experiencing facial swelling and blurred vision for several months. When the symptoms worsened, his family took him to IGIMS, Patna.

During the initial investigation, the doctors were astounded to discover a tooth lodged in the bone just below the patients eye, with its roots reaching into the orbit (eye socket). This condition, termed tooth in the eye," is extremely rare.

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The patient was admitted under the supervision of Dr. Nimmi Singh, Head of the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Dental Department. Recognising the severity of the case, Dr. Singh assembled a specialised surgical team, including Dr. Priyankar Singh from the Maxillofacial Unit and anaesthesia specialists.

Advanced CBCT scanning was performed to determine the exact position and depth of the tooths roots. The high-tech examination revealed that the tooth was stuck in the orbital floor, making its removal extraordinarily challenging. The surgical team proceeded with caution and successfully extracted the tooth without damaging the eye during the hours-long operation. Post-surgery, the patients vision was preserved, and the facial swelling subsided.

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Dr. Nimmi Singh described the case as extremely rare, noting that while teeth typically develop inside the mouth, this patients tooth had grown below the eye. The successful removal was achieved through advanced investigative and surgical techniques.

Following the surgery, IGIMS Director Dr. Binde Kumar, Deputy Director Dr. Vibhuti Prasanna Sinha, and Medical Superintendent Dr. Manish Mandal congratulated the team, hailing the procedure as a significant achievement for the institute.

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: August 13, 2025, 15:26 IST

News viral In Rare Surgery, Patna Doctors Remove Tooth Growing Under 45-Year-Old Patient's Eye

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After Asim Munir, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Threatens India Over Indus Treaty: 'Not One Drop...'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:12 IST

His remarks came afters India announced a series of punitive measures against Islamabad, including putting the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance.

File photo of Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. (Image: PTI/File)

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said that India would not be allowed to take even one drop" of water belonging to Pakistan, escalating tensions between the two neighbours.

His remarks came after India announced a series of punitive measures against Islamabad, including putting the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance". Pakistan has repeatedly warned that any attempt to block its water supply would be considered an act of war.

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I want to tell the enemy today that if you threaten to hold our water, then keep this in mind  you cannot snatch even one drop of Pakistan," Sharif said at a ceremony. He warned that if India tried, you will again be taught such a lesson that you will be left holding your ears."

A day earlier, former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari called the suspension of the IWT an attack on the Indus Valley Civilisation, warning that the country would not back down if pushed into war.

In a separate address to the Pakistani diaspora in Tampa, Florida, Army Chief Asim Munir reportedly said Islamabad would destroy any dam if India cut off water flow. We will wait for India to build a dam, and when they do so, we will destroy it," Dawn quoted him as saying.

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The Indus River is not the Indians family property. We have no shortage of resources to undo the Indian designs to stop the river."

India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, striking terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. The two sides reached an understanding on May 10 to end the conflict after four days of cross-border drone and missile strikes.

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: August 13, 2025, 08:12 IST

News world After Asim Munir, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Threatens India Over Indus Treaty: 'Not One Drop...'

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'Aware Of Asim Munirs Nuclear Remark Reports, But Ask Pakistan': US State Dept | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 21:11 IST

The comments of the US State Department to CNN-News18 show the country is refusing to take onus on the matter

Asim Munir was hosted by US President Donald Trump at the White House in June.

The US government has told CNN-News18 that it is aware of reports about Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs alleged remarks regarding nuclear warfare and said it would refer you to the Government of Pakistan" regarding these comments. Munir made these remarks while he was in the US.

CNN-News18 had asked the US State Department if it had taken note of reports about Munirs remarks on American soil regarding his nuclear threat and the Indian statement in reaction to it.

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We are aware of these reports and would refer you to the Government of Pakistan regarding Chief of Army Staff Munirs alleged remarks," a US State Department spokesperson said in an e-mail response to the query.

Speaking at a dinner in the US last week, Munir reportedly said, We (Pakistan) are a nuclear nation; if we think we are going down, well take half the world down with us." This was an unprecedented nuclear threat issued by a country, and that too from US soil.

India had reacted strongly to this with a statement on August 11, saying nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistans stock-in-trade.

The international community can draw its own conclusions on the irresponsibility inherent in such remarks, which also reinforce the well-held doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in a state where the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups. It is also regrettable that these remarks should have been made from the soil of a friendly third country," the Indian government said in a statement on August 11.

India also said it will not give in to nuclear blackmail and will continue to take all steps necessary to safeguard its national security.

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Munir was earlier hosted by US President Donald Trump at the White House in June in an unprecedented move, a gesture not extended so far to the Pakistani President or Prime Minister. He was again in the US, on a second trip for the farewell of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael Kurilla.

There have been concerns in India over the US giving a platform to Munir to make such nuclear threats, and the comments of the State Department to CNN-News18 show the country is refusing to take onus on the matter.

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

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 20:47 IST

News world 'Aware Of Asim Munirs Nuclear Remark Reports, But Ask Pakistan': US State Dept | Exclusive

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council on Wednesday rejected the announcement of the establishment of a parallel governing authority in areas controlled by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

In a press statement, the council members also expressed grave concern about the implications of such actions, which represent a direct threat to Sudan's territorial integrity and unity and further risk exacerbating the ongoing conflict in Sudan, fragmenting the country and worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.

They unequivocally reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to Sudan's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity. They stressed that any unilateral steps that undermine these principles threaten not only the future of Sudan but also the peace and stability of the broader region.

They reiterated that the priority is for the parties to resume talks to reach a lasting ceasefire and "create the necessary conditions for a political resolution on the conflict."

They also recalled Security Council Resolution 2736, which demands that the RSF lift the siege of El Fasher and calls for an immediate halt to the fighting and for de-escalation in and around the city. They also expressed grave concern about incoming reports of a renewed RSF offensive in El Fasher and urged the RSF to allow unhindered humanitarian access to the city.

The council members condemned reported attacks in the Kordofan region in recent weeks by the parties, which have caused the deaths of large numbers of civilians. They also expressed deep concern over the impact of the conflict, including attacks on humanitarian operations. They called on the parties in Sudan to allow and facilitate safe and unhindered humanitarian access in a manner consistent with the relevant provisions of international law.

They urged all UN member states to refrain from external interference that seeks to foment conflict and instability, to support efforts for durable peace, to abide by their obligations under international law, and to implement relevant Security Council resolutions. 
Reprehensible: Pro-Khalistan Elements Vandalise BAPS Temple In US, Indian Consulate Reacts

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 13:04 IST

The Hindu American Foundation urged the elected officials to "move beyond empty condemnations" and take strict action against those responsible for the desecration.

BAPS temple vandalised in US (Photo: X/ @HinduAmerican)

A Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple was desecrated, allegedly by pro-Khalistan separatists, in Greenwood, Indiana, a city in Johnson County in the United States, a Hindu Americans group alleged on Tuesday.

The walls of the Hindu temple were vandalised with anti-India and anti-Modi graffiti, the Hindu American Foundation said in a post on X, while urging the elected officials" to move beyond empty condemnations".

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They demanded stern action against the perpetrators of the crime, which they said took place for the fourth time in less than a year.

BREAKING| For the 4th time in less than a year, a Hindu Mandir (temple) has been desecratedthis time the @BAPS Mandir in Greenwood, IN.Vandalizing temples with anti-India graffiti is a tactic often used by pro-Khalistan separatist activistsand a stark reminder of how slurring pic.twitter.com/bqH6y1kq9c Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) August 12, 2025

For the 4th time in less than a year, a Hindu Mandir (temple) has been desecratedthis time the @BAPS Mandir in Greenwood, IN. Vandalizing temples with anti-India graffiti is a tactic often used by pro-Khalistan separatist activistsand a stark reminder of how slurring American Hindus as Hindutva" fuels hate like this. Its time elected officials move beyond empty condemnations and ensure perpetrators are held accountable," the Foundation captioned a post on X, in which they also shared the video of the vandalism.

Consulate General of India in Chicago condemned the desecration of the temple and said that the Consulate has taken up the matter with the authorities, seeking prompt action.

Desecration of main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana is reprehensible. The Consulate is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with law enforcement authorities for prompt action. Today Consul General addressed a gathering of devotees and local leadership including Honble Mayor of Greenwood, calling for unity & solidarity, and vigilance against miscreants there," the Consulate General posted on X.

Earlier in March this year, an iconic Hindu temple in Southern California was desecrated with anti-Hindu and anti-Indian government graffiti.

The California incident was condemned by the Ministry of External Affairs, which sought action against those responsible.

We condemn such despicable acts in the strongest terms. We call upon the local law enforcement authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for these acts, and also ensure adequate security to places of worship," said ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

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In September last year, the BAPS temple in Melville, New York, was spray-painted with anti-India slogans.

Nine days later, the temple near Sacramento was targeted, and in December 2023, the Newark, California, temple was also attacked, news agency AP reported.

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: August 13, 2025, 10:03 IST

News world Reprehensible: Pro-Khalistan Elements Vandalise BAPS Temple In US, Indian Consulate Reacts

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British Government Expands Facial Recognition Van Network Across England, Wales

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 03:03 IST

The move comes under the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, a broad public safety effort aimed at making communities across England and Wales safer.

A total of 10 new LFR vans will be deployed to seven police forces (Essex Police)

The United Kingdom has officially announced the nationwide expansion of Live Facial Recognition (LFR) vans on Wednesday as part of the governments new crime-fighting strategy, reported PTI. According to officials, the vans are designed to help law enforcement locate and apprehend suspects involved in serious crimes, such as sexual offences, robbery, and knife attacks.

The move comes under the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, a broad public safety effort aimed at making communities across England and Wales safer. Under this guarantee, each neighbourhood will have a dedicated team of officers who are accessible to the public and focused on tackling local crime.

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A total of 10 new LFR vans will be deployed to seven police forces: Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey and Sussex, and Thames Valley and Hampshire. The government says the vans will operate under strict deployment criteria, following guidance from the College of Policing, and will only be used where specific intelligence exists.

These new facial recognition vans will equip police forces with targeted, cutting-edge technology to catch high-harm criminals," the Home Office said in a statement.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted the importance of visible and responsive policing at the community level. No one should feel unsafe leaving their homes. From today, every neighbourhood across England and Wales has named, contactable officers to tackle crime in our communities," Starmer said.

No one should feel unsafe leaving their homes.From today, every neighbourhood across England and Wales has named, contactable officers to tackle crime in our communities. Our Plan for Change in action.  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) August 13, 2025

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper added that alongside the LFR vans, the government is also deploying 3,000 new neighbourhood police officers to address crimes including off-road bike offences, shoplifting, and street theft. And we will provide police with the tools they need to do their jobs. Facial recognition will be used in a targeted way to identify sex offenders or people wanted for the most serious crimes who the police have not been able to find," she stated.

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According to the Home Office, existing LFR technology has already played a role in arresting suspects involved in rape, domestic abuse, knife crime, and robbery, and in locating sex offenders in breach of court orders. The technology has also been used to enhance security at large public gatherings like festivals and concerts.

Each van will be staffed by trained officers, who will monitor and verify matches flagged by the system. The facial recognition algorithm used has been independently tested by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and, according to the Home Office, has demonstrated no bias based on ethnicity, age, or gender at the settings currently used by UK police.

Location : London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: August 14, 2025, 03:02 IST

News world British Government Expands Facial Recognition Van Network Across England, Wales

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Canada to Launch New Express Entry Categories for Skilled Workers in 2026

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:54 IST

The changes could benefit Indian professionals with experience in leadership roles, especially in IT, finance, and engineering

The Express Entry system is an online application management system used to process immigration under economic programs. (AP file photo)

Canada is set to introduce three new occupational categories to its Express Entry immigration system in 2026, with a focus on senior managers, scientists and researchers, and military personnel.

The move, announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through a public consultation notice, aims to simplify the permanent residence application process for highly skilled foreign workers in these sectors.

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The public consultation will remain open till 3 September 2025. However, the Canadian government has not yet provided a detailed timeline for implementation.

The Express Entry system is an online application management system used to process immigration under economic programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Applicants are ranked through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.

What The New Categories Include

The Leadership category will focus on senior managers who oversee operations and lead teams. According to IRCC, these roles are essential to boosting Canadas competitiveness and economic growth.

The Research and Innovation category is intended for select scientists and researchers. While the specific disciplines have not yet been disclosed, the government believes that attracting talent in these fields will drive innovation and improve overall productivity.

The National Security and Defence category will prioritise skilled military professionals from allied countries, aiming to support the Canadian Armed Forces and broader security needs.

What It Means For Indian professionals

The changes could benefit Indian professionals with experience in leadership roles, especially in IT, finance, and engineering, where India has a strong talent pool.

Indian researchers and scientists in STEM fields may also have increased opportunities. If recognised, Indian defence professionals could explore new immigration pathways under the proposed defence category.

Other Key Updates

IRCC will continue to prioritise Francophone immigration outside Quebec and sectors like healthcare, trades, education, STEM, and agri-food. These areas are already part of the category-based selection system introduced in 2023, which helps fill labour shortages with skilled foreign workers.

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Category-based draws often have lower CRS cut-offs than general rounds, giving targeted applicants a better chance.

International students may also be affected, as changes in Express Entry can impact Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. More updates on this are expected in early 2026.

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 : Canada

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:54 IST

News world Canada to Launch New Express Entry Categories for Skilled Workers in 2026

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'Donald Trump Most Notorious Criminal In Washington': Elon Musk's Grok Responds To X User

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 11:42 IST

Grok, the AI chatbot on X, responding to an X user, called Donald Trump the most notorious criminal in Washington, DC, citing his convictions.

File photos of Donald Trump/Elon Musk (AP)

Social media platform Xs AI chatbot Grok has declared US President Donald Trump as the most notorious criminal in Washington, DC".

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The response by Grok came after a social media user asked the AI chatbot to name the notorious criminal in Washington, DC.

The comment by the social media user came in reference to another post showing pictures of unarmed soldiers with the 273rd Military Police Company staging near the National Mall.

Based on felony convictions and global infamy, Donald Trumpcurrent resident of the White Housestands as Washington, D.C.s most notorious criminal," Groks response read.

This comes two months after a public fallout between Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. In June, the billionaire had claimed the President was in the Epstein files and should be impeached for his support of the One Big Beautiful Bill.

He later regretted his comment.

According to Newsweek, Grok mentioned it came to that conclusion based on Trumps convictions.

In May 2024, a jury in New York convicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign.

The report claimed that earlier, too, Grok replied to an X user who asked whether violent crimes in DC were going down and to another user who asked who the most notorious criminal" in the capital was.

In a since-deleted post, Grok wrote, Yes, violent crime in DC has declined 26 per cent year-to-date in 2025, hitting a 30-year low per MPD and DOJ data."

As for the most notorious criminal there, based on convictions and notoriety, its President Donald Trumpconvicted on 34 felonies in NY, with the verdict upheld in January 2025," Grok had responded, according to the report.

The DC National Guard began appearing in the nations capital on Tuesday after Donald Trump announced a day earlier that he was deploying guard troops and placing Washington, DCs police department under direct federal control," citing a public safety emergency after an assault on a former government worker.

CNN observed five armoured personnel carriers near the Washington Monument on Tuesday evening.

The DC National Guard reports only to the President of the United States. The citys status as a district, not a state, allows the President, and in turn the federal government, more leeway in directing troops and a range of federal authorities.

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ALSO READ | Who Proposed The Trump-Putin Meeting And Why Is It Happening In Alaska?

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: August 13, 2025, 11:38 IST

News world 'Donald Trump Most Notorious Criminal In Washington': Elon Musk's Grok Responds To X User

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Drought Looming, UK Asks People To Clear Their Inboxes To Save Water. Here's Why

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 12:12 IST

The idea is simple but startlingdata centres, where emails, photos, and files are stored, require enormous amounts of water to keep servers cool

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The UKs Environment Agency and National Drought Group is encouraging citizens to take small but symbolic actionsfrom turning off taps and fixing leaks to clearing their digital waste.

Did it ever cross your mind that deleting old emails or cloud-stored selfies could possibly help save water during a drought? The idea, on the surface, sounds absurd. However, in a country where digital clutter is quietly guzzling millions of litres of water every year, UK officials say its time to think differently.

As England faces one of its worst droughts in decades, with riverbeds drying up and hosepipe bans expanding, the government is making an unusual request: delete old digital files. The idea is simple but startlingdata centres, where emails, photos, and files are stored, require enormous amounts of water to keep servers cool. The more data we store, the more energy and water are needed to maintain it, according to The Independent.

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The logic behind the appeal lies in the hidden cost of the digital world. A report in The Verge says even a modest 1-megawatt data centre can consume up to 26 million litres of water per yearlargely for cooling purposes. Some older systems rely on evaporative cooling, which makes water use even more intensive. And while tech companies are exploring more sustainable optionslike liquid-cooled servers or undersea data centressuch solutions remain far from mainstream.

The unlikely link between digital hoarding and environmental sustainability has now entered the national conversation. The UKs Environment Agency and National Drought Group is encouraging citizens to take small but symbolic actionsfrom turning off taps and fixing leaks to clearing their digital waste. Helen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency, was quoted in The Times of India as saying: Even simple, everyday actions like deleting old emails can help reduce the demand on water resources."

According to the Journal, regions, including Yorkshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, the East Midlands, and West Midlands are experiencing significant water shortages, while other areas like East Anglia and the Thames Valley are under extended dry weather alerts.

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Parched landscapes are revealing long-submerged landmarks like ancient bridges, while farmers struggle with dry soil and low yields. The situation has been declared nationally significant" by the Environment Agency, underscoring the urgent need for both behavioural and structural change.

As summer temperatures continue to hover in the mid30 C range in some parts of England, meteorologists caution that this extreme dry spell may persist into the latter half of August.

About the Author Apoorva Misra Apoorva Misra is News Editor at News18.com with over nine years of experience. She is a graduate from Delhi University's Lady Shri Ram College and holds a PG Diploma from Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. S... Read More Apoorva Misra is News Editor at News18.com with over nine years of experience. She is a graduate from Delhi University's Lady Shri Ram College and holds a PG Diploma from Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. S... Read More

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Location : London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 12:12 IST

News world Drought Looming, UK Asks People To Clear Their Inboxes To Save Water. Here's Why

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'If I Don't Get Answers From Putin...': Trump's Warning Ahead Of Ukraine Talks In Alaska

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 22:07 IST

US President Trump praised European leaders before a virtual meeting on the Ukraine war. He will speak with European leaders to ensure their positions are heard.

Donald Trump speaking at a presser in the White House. (Reuters)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday issued a stern warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of Alaska summit, saying that Moscow will face very severe" consequences if it doesnt get answers from him.

Earlier today, he said that hed had a very good call" with European leaders, including Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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We had a very good call. He was on the call  President Zelenskyy was on the call. I would rate it at 10. You know  very, very friendly," he told reporters during an event at Washingtons Kennedy Center.

The US President further said that he wants to hold a quick second" meeting with Putin and Zelensky after the Alaska summit.

During the conference call, Zelenskyy and his European allies urged Trump to support Kyiv and push for a ceasefire when he meets Putin.

A stepped-up Russian offensive, and the fact Zelenskyy has not been invited to the Anchorage meeting Friday, have heightened fears that Trump and Putin could strike a deal that forces painful concessions on Ukraine.

Ahead of the meeting, he praised European leaders as great people ahead of his virtual meeting over Ukraine war.

In a short post on his platform Truth Social, Trump said, Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done."

According to the German government, the talks aimed to ensure that Europes and Ukraines positions are heard ahead of the August 15 meeting between the US and Russian Presidents in Alaska.

Earlier today, Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin for the virtual meet. Although many leaders, including Trump, will join via video conference, Zelenskyy has traveled to the German capital for the summit and will give a statement alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz following the talks.

Merz has organised a series of virtual meetings involving leaders from Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland, the European Union, and NATO. The agenda includes Ukraines concerns about being excluded from direct participation in the US-Russia talks, as well as efforts to present a united European stance.

The final round of discussions will include members of the coalition of the willing," countries prepared to help enforce any future peace agreement.

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Trump has said he wants to determine if Russian President Vladimir Putin is serious" about ending the war, now in its fourth year.

Both Ukraine and European leaders remain cautious, fearing that a deal struck without their input could hand Putin strategic concessions, potentially emboldening further aggression against other European nations.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 17:15 IST

News world 'If I Don't Get Answers From Putin...': Trump's Warning Ahead Of Ukraine Talks In Alaska

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Hamas Delegation Arrives In Cairo For Talks On Proposed 60-Day Ceasefire In Gaza

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 06:12 IST

The Cairo talks come as Israel continues to implement a phased reoccupation strategy, approved by its Security Cabinet last week.

Previous ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel have failed to produce a breakthrough (AFP photo)

A Hamas delegation, led by senior official Khalil al-Hayya, arrived in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday, Reuters reported. The group is set to hold consultations on a proposed 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, as efforts to revive truce negotiations continue amid a prolonged deadlock in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The visit marks a renewed attempt to re-establish mediated talks with Israel, particularly around the issue of ceasefire and hostage releases. According to The Times of Israel, Hamas official Taher al-Nono stated that the meetings with Egyptian mediators would focus on ways to stop the war, deliver aid, and end the suffering of our people in Gaza."

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The Cairo talks come as Israel continues to implement a phased reoccupation strategy, approved by its Security Cabinet last week. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that Israels military campaign aims to regain full control over the Gaza Strip. However, in an interview aired Tuesday, Netanyahu stated that Palestinians would be permitted to leave Gaza ahead of any new military offensive.

Previous ceasefire negotiations, including the latest round held in Doha, Qatar, have so far failed to produce a breakthrough. Talks collapsed last month after both sides accused each other of failing to uphold conditions for a ceasefire.

Al-Qahera News, citing a source familiar with the developments, reported that there are intensive Egyptian efforts and contacts with all parties to overcome differences in order to reach a temporary truce in Gaza." The source added that the discussions currently underway in Cairo are centred on reaching a 60-day truce," with the aim of pushing negotiations forward and reaching a broader ceasefire agreement.

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In parallel, an Arab official close to the discussions revealed that Hamas had accepted Egypts proposal concerning the political future of Gaza, referred to as the day after" plan, which includes involving the Palestinian Authority in governing the territory.

The same official also claimed that Hamas no longer maintains full control over the Gaza Strip, stating, Theres no organised military structure, no command hierarchy." He further suggested that Prime Minister Netanyahu may be deliberately prolonging the conflict for internal political purposes.

Location : Cairo, Egypt

First Published: August 13, 2025, 06:12 IST

News world Hamas Delegation Arrives In Cairo For Talks On Proposed 60-Day Ceasefire In Gaza

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Indian Man Hit By Teens In Ireland's Dublin Amid Surge In Racist Attacks, Plans To Return Home

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 14:23 IST

An Indian man in Dublin was assaulted by three teenagers in Fairview Park, suffering a deep cut above his eye that required eight stitches. He now wants to return to India.

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The Dublin Police in Ireland (Photo: AP)

An Indian man living in Irelands Dublin has said he will return to India after being attacked by a group of teenagers in Fairview Park over the weekend, The Journal reported.

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The man, who preferred not to be named, told the publication that the assault happened at nearly 5.30 pm (local time) on August 10, when one attacker on an electric scooter kicked him in the stomach.

As he tried to walk away, two others joined in, hitting him repeatedly until he fell to the ground, where they continued kicking and punching him.

One of the attackers reportedly struck him above the eye with his own metal water bottle, causing a deep cut and heavy bleeding.

He received eight stitches in the hospital.

The victim said people nearby did not intervene, though two male teenagers eventually came to his aid.

Following the attack, the man said many of his friends in Dublins Indian community are now scared to go outside" and some are planning to return to India. He has already arranged his departure in the coming days, saying his parents were deeply concerned and urged him to come home.

The man also requested an extension from his university to finish his thesis online.

INDIAN COMMUNITY ISSUES STATEMENT

Following the attack, the Indian community issued a statement and said it was deeply disturbing to learn that violent attacks on members of the Indian community in Ireland".

Over the weekend, an Indian national was brutally assaulted in Dublins Fairview Park. He was kicked, punched, and struck in the face. Traumatised, he now plans to leave Ireland. His friends say they are afraid to even step outside," the statement read.

The Ireland India Council stands in full solidarity with the victim and calls for an urgent action by An Garda Siochana to identify and prosecute the attackers and stronger measures to protect minority communities from hate-motivated violence, along with a united stand from all in Irish society against hatred in every form," it mentioned.

We urge the Indian community to stand together in defence of our shared dignity and interests," it stated.

Many  whether Indian, Irish, in government, opposition, or business  are working sincerely to protect and support you. But some, through personal agendas, weaken our collective resolve," the statement read.

INDIAN EMBASSY EXPRESSES CONCERN

Earlier this month, the Indian Embassy in Ireland issued an advisory expressing safety concerns following recent attacks in and around the capital Dublin and urging Indian citizens to take safety precautions.

There has been an increase in the instances of physical attacks reported against Indian citizens in Ireland recently," stated the advisory issued online.

The embassy is in touch with the authorities concerned in Ireland in this regard. At the same time, all Indian citizens in Ireland are advised to take reasonable precautions for their personal security and avoid deserted areas, especially in odd hours," the statement read.

IRELAND PRESIDENT CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON INDIAN COMMUNITY

On Tuesday, Ireland President Michael D Higgins unequivocally" condemned the despicable attacks" on members of the Indian community.

In a statement, Higgins highlighted the immense contribution of Indians across all spheres of Irish life, saying the attacks were in stark contradiction to the values of Ireland.

It came after a spate of violent attacks on Indians in Dublin and other cities, which the Irish police (Garda) said was being fully and thoroughly investigated".

The recent despicable attacks on members of the Indian community stand in stark contradiction to the values that we as a people hold dear," said Higgins.

That any person in Ireland, particularly any young person, should be drawn into such behaviour through manipulation or provocation is to be unequivocally condemned," he said.

Whether such provocation stems from ignorance or from malice, it is essential to acknowledge the harm that it is causing. Such acts diminish all of us and obscure the immeasurable benefits the people of India have brought to the life of this country," he added.

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ALSO READ | Indian-Origin Man Alleges Racist Assault By Teenagers In Dublin, Suffers Fractured Cheekbone

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.

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First Published: August 13, 2025, 14:16 IST

News world Indian Man Hit By Teens In Ireland's Dublin Amid Surge In Racist Attacks, Plans To Return Home

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Israeli Military Approves New Gaza Offensive Plan Amid Growing International Criticism

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 22:22 IST

Netanyahus government has yet to announce a clear timeline for the next phase of the ground offensive

Sanaa University students and professors attend a rally to denounce the killing of an Al Jazeera news team in an Israeli strike in Gaza City. (AFP photo)

The Israeli military on Wednesday said it had approved the framework for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, despite mounting international concern and worsening humanitarian conditions in the territory.

The announcement came as Hamas condemned what it described as aggressive" Israeli ground incursions into Gaza City, accusing Israeli forces of using a scorched-earth approach in heavily populated areas.

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A statement from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, chief of the Israeli armed forces, had approved the main framework for the IDFs operational plan in the Gaza Strip." The military did not say when the expanded operation would begin.

The plan follows a recent decision by Israels security cabinet calling for the full capture of Gaza City, which has seen intense fighting throughout the nearly two-year war. Thousands of civilians have fled to the city from other parts of Gaza, seeking shelter from earlier attacks.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government has yet to announce a clear timeline for the next phase of the ground offensive.

Hamas spokesperson Ismail Al-Thawabta warned that Israeli actions in Gaza City marked a dangerous escalation aimed at imposing a new reality on the ground by force." He said Israeli troops were targeting civilian areas and causing widespread destruction.

Gazas civil defence agency reported that Israeli air strikes have intensified in recent days, especially in residential areas. Mahmud Bassal, a spokesperson for the agency, said at least 40 people were killed on Wednesday alone.

Footage from Gaza City on Tuesday showed families fleeing bombardments in the Zeitoun and Asqoola neighbourhoods using carts, vans and bicycles packed with belongings.

Meanwhile, efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled. Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are continuing talks to try and broker a 60-day truce, including a possible hostage exchange and increased humanitarian access.

Hamas said a delegation had arrived in Cairo on Wednesday for preliminary talks" with Egyptian officials.

Israels planned offensive has drawn criticism at home and abroad. UN agencies have warned that famine is spreading in Gaza, where Israel has restricted aid deliveries. The health ministry in Gaza said at least 235 people, including over 100 children, have died of hunger since the war began in October 2023.

The conflict started after a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, which killed 1,219 people, according to official Israeli figures. Of the 251 hostages taken, 49 are still being held in Gaza  27 of whom are believed to be dead.

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Since then, Israels military response has killed at least 61,722 Palestinians, according to Gazas health ministry figures, which are considered reliable by the United Nations.

(With inputs from AFP)

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 : Israel

First Published: August 13, 2025, 22:21 IST

News world Israeli Military Approves New Gaza Offensive Plan Amid Growing International Criticism

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'Putin Is Bluffing, Doesn't Want Peace': Zelenskyy Says Russia Wants To Occupy Ukraine

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 22:22 IST

Zelenskyy insists Ukraine's territorial integrity must reflect its people's will before the US-Russia summit in Alaska

A file photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (AP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of bluffing", saying that Russia wants to occupy the whole of Ukraine and has no intention of pursuing peace.

Zelenskyy made the remarks ahead of the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, set to take place in Alaska.

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I told President Trump and all our European allies that Putin is bluffing," Zelenskyy said.

He added that Russia was trying to increase military pressure across the Ukrainian front before the meeting in Alaska.

Hes trying to push in all directions of the front ahead of the Alaska meeting. Russia wants to occupy the whole of Ukraine. That is his goal. He does not want peace," Zelenskyy said.

Speaking about the Trump-Putin summit, the Ukrainian president stressed that any discussions about Ukraines territorial integrity must include the Ukrainian people.

Any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution," he said.

Zelenskyy also said that Russia should face fresh sanctions if it refuses to agree to an immediate ceasefire during the summit.

We hope that the central topic at the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire," Zelensky said, following a phone call with President Trump and European leaders ahead of the US-Russia talks.

Sanctions must be in place and must be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire," he added, speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin.

Trump-Putin Summit

The summit is set to take place on Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska. This will be the first one-on-one meeting between the two leaders since their 2018 summit in Helsinki and is expected to focus on ending the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has now lasted over three years.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located near Alaskas capital Anchorage, combines the Elmendorf Air Force Base and the Armys Fort Richardson, merged in 2010. The base serves as headquarters for several key military commands, including the Alaska Command and the Alaskan NORAD Region, which handles aerospace control and warnings.

The US military frequently intercepts Russian aircraft that approach American airspace in Alaska, maintaining visual or electronic contact to monitor the activity.

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Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since returning to office, President Trump has been pushing for a peace agreement, though his efforts have yet to achieve any major breakthrough.

(With inputs from AFP)

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 : Ukraine

First Published: August 13, 2025, 20:35 IST

News world 'Putin Is Bluffing, Doesn't Want Peace': Zelenskyy Says Russia Wants To Occupy Ukraine

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YAOUNDE, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Cameroon is going to conduct a population census next year, the country's Prime Minister's Office said in a statement on Wednesday.

The census will be coupled with the general census of agriculture and livestock, the statement said.

On Tuesday, the country's Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute chaired an interministerial meeting to deliberate on the modalities of the operation.

"I ordered that the timetable for pooled activities be scrupulously respected, before tackling the physical execution of the operation in the first quarter of 2026," Ngute said on his social media platforms early Wednesday.

This will be the fourth general population census the Central African nation will conduct, following previous censuses in 1976, 1987, and 2005.

The 2005 census showed that Cameroon's population was 17,463,836. 
Pakistan To Open $5 Trillion Mineral Reserves For Global Bidding, Eyes US, China & Gulf | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 10:08 IST

In phase 1, China will be granted exploration rights in Gilgit-Baltistan region, while US may gain access to mining projects in Northern Balochistan and Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

If successful, the strategy could mark one of the largest resource mobilisations in Pakistans history. (PTI)

Pakistan is set to open international bidding for its vast reserves of rare earth elements and minerals, estimated to be worth between $3 to $5 trillion, in a move aimed at attracting large-scale foreign investment from global powers, including the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Turkiye, and the United Arab Emirates.

Senior officials told CNN-News18 that preparations are underway to streamline the investment process by transferring all mineral and rare earth sites from provincial control to a single federal authority.

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This transition, designed to simplify bidding, regulatory approvals, and security clearances, will require a constitutional amendment to override the current framework under the 18th Amendment, which gives provinces control over natural resources. Legislation to facilitate this shift is currently under consideration.

The government plans to finalise agreements with foreign investors and consortiums within the next six to eight months. In the first phase of allocations, China will be granted exploration rights in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, while the United States is expected to gain access to mining projects in Northern Balochistan and Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Negotiations with Saudi Arabia are reportedly nearing completion for the Reko Diq copper-gold mines, one of the largest untapped reserves of its kind in the world.

Pakistan is currently in active talks with multiple international players, including consortiums from the US, UK, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and the UAE. Government officials have confirmed that all top bidders will be accommodated, with efforts focused on creating an efficient one-window operation for investors.

The countrys mineral landscape spans coal, copper, gold, iron ore, chromite, and precious stones, along with the worlds second-largest salt mines and the fifth-largest deposits of copper and gold. The mineral wealth is spread across all provinces, from Balochistans rugged terrain to the mountainous north and the plains of Punjab and Sindh.

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Foreign interest in Pakistans mining potential has grown significantly in recent months. Following earlier commitments by China and Saudi Arabia, US President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed renewed interest in Pakistans rare earth and energy sectors, signalling potential high-level agreements in the pipeline.

Officials told CNN-News18 that the federal government is committed to unlocking the full potential of its mineral wealth by addressing legal and administrative challenges, positioning the mining sector as a key driver of economic growth and foreign investment. If successful, the strategy could mark one of the largest resource mobilisations in Pakistans history and reshape its role in the global race for rare earth elements.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: August 13, 2025, 10:08 IST

News world Pakistan To Open $5 Trillion Mineral Reserves For Global Bidding, Eyes US, China & Gulf | Exclusive

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Relying On Fired Losers: Trump Slams Very Unfair Media Coverage Ahead Of Putin Meet

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 21:00 IST

Trump criticised the media's coverage of his meeting with Putin in Alaska, called ex-NSA Bolton a "fired loser."

Donald Trump argues that the tariffs have benefited the American economy, with billions of dollars flowing into the US treasury. (AP/File)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday lashed out at the very unfair media" over the coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

He dubbed his former National Security Advisor John Bolton fired losers" and really dumb people," over his latest media interactions and his assessment of the upcoming US-Russia Summit in Alaska, and accused the media of relying on commentary of such people.

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The US President asserted that the media narrative was biased and that the US was winning at everything," rubbishing Boltons stance that Putin had already won" by securing this meeting.

Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won." Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!)," he said in post on Truth Social.

He further said that even if he succeeds in securing a favourable deal with Russia, such as acquiring territory like Moscow and Leningrad, the media would still frame it negatively.

If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal! But now theyve been caught. Look at all of the real news thats coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country. But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!! MAGA" he added.

His comments came after his former NSA John Bolton, in an exclusive interview with Firstpost, had said that Putins meeting with Trump in Alaska is a big win" for the Russian leader.

It is a big win for Putin to come to the United States. Hes a pariah leader of a rogue state that committed unprovoked aggression against Ukraine," he had said.

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He had also criticised Trumps approach, including tariffs on India for Russian oil purchases, warning they could push India closer to Moscow and Beijing.

The US President had previously threatened to impose sanctions and additional tariffs if Moscow did not take steps toward a ceasefire. Instead, following a visit to Moscow by Trumps envoy, a direct meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was scheduled for August 15.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degree from Ben... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 21:00 IST

News world Relying On Fired Losers: Trump Slams Very Unfair Media Coverage Ahead Of Putin Meet

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This Island Led To Sheikh Hasina's Exile From Bangladesh. Now Reports Say It Could Go To The US

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 18:01 IST

Sheikh Hasina, ousted as Bangladesh's PM, claims US pressure for a military base on St Martin Island led to her exile. Nobel laureate Yunus' interim government may hand it over.

As of August 13, 2025, St Martin remains fully under Bangladeshi sovereignty. (News18 Hindi)

It has been over a year since Sheikh Hasina was ousted as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and fled to India by helicopter, where she has remained in political exile. The dramatic exit followed a rebellion in Dhaka that Hasina claimed was orchestrated by the United States. According to her, the US pressure to allow a military base on one of Bangladeshs islands, a request she said she refused, was the real reason for her removal from office.

The island in question, St Martin, has long been off-limits to visitors due to its sensitive location. In the days following Hasinas flight to India, it was at the centre of heated political debate. Now, reports suggest the interim government led by Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus could be preparing to hand over control of the island to the US, though no official confirmation has been made.

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Known in Bengali as Narikel Jinjira or Daruchini Dweep, St Martin Island is a small, 3-square-kilometre coral island in the northeast Bay of Bengal, close to the Myanmar border. Its location gives it immense strategic value. Hasina has repeatedly claimed that US interest in establishing a military base there was part of a wider Indo-Pacific strategy to counter Chinas influence. In 2023, she said, I could have stayed in power if I had leased the island," but insisted she would not sell the countrys assets". The US denied the allegations.

The islands history stretches back over 5,000 years. Once part of the Teknaf Peninsula, it became separated due to rising sea levels. Arab traders settled there in the 18th century, calling it Jazeera. Under British rule in 1900, it was named after a local administrator, Deputy Commissioner Martin.

The territory later became part of Pakistan after the 1947 partition, and then joined Bangladesh following the 1971 Liberation War. A 1974 agreement between Bangladesh and Myanmar affirmed its Bangladeshi ownership, a stance upheld by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.

Today, St Martin is home to roughly 6,000 fishing families and is a hub for tourism from October to April, attracting about 10,000 visitors daily in peak season. It boasts 153 species of seaweed, 66 types of coral, 240 species of fish, 120 bird species, and 29 types of reptiles. In 2022, it was declared a marine protected area.

Despite its ecological richness, the islands geopolitical weight is what fuels international interest. Its proximity to Myanmar puts it near the ongoing Rohingya crisis and along key maritime routes. Control over St Martin would allow the monitoring of the Strait of Malacca, a chokepoint through which around 80 percent of Chinas energy imports pass, and could influence stability in the north-eastern part of India.

As of August 12, 2025, St Martin remains fully under Bangladeshi sovereignty. No American military base has been built, and no official agreement for transfer exists. However, speculation persists that Yunus interim government may offer the US not only the island but also the Chittagong port and a corridor to Myanmars Rakhine state in an effort to strengthen ties with Washington. The government has not confirmed these claims.

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Currently, civilian access to St Martin is restricted, officially due to heightened tensions with Myanmar. Some local reports allege that the restrictions are part of a master plan" to relocate residents ahead of potential foreign military use.

Bangladesh is home to anywhere from 700 to over 1,000 islands, depending on the source, with some estimates, counting seasonal sandbars, reaching up to 7,000. The largest, Bhola, spans about 3,402 square kilometres and has a population of 17 lakh. Other inhabited islands include Nijhum, Hatiya, Sandwip, Manpura, and Maheshkhali. St Martin, despite its size, remains the most internationally watched.

Location : Bangladesh

First Published: August 13, 2025, 18:01 IST

News world This Island Led To Sheikh Hasina's Exile From Bangladesh. Now Reports Say It Could Go To The US

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Trump Eyes Trilateral Summit With Zelenskyy, Putin If Alaska Meeting Succeeds

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 23:58 IST

Scheduled to take place in Anchorage, the summit will primarily focus on efforts to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Trump's remarks followed a phone conversation with European leaders and President Zelenskyy (Reuters Image)

US President Donald Trump remains optimistic ahead of his highly anticipated meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin this Friday in Anchorage, Alaska. Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Trump suggested that if the initial summit goes well, he plans to quickly schedule a follow-up meeting that would also include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

If the first one goes OK, well have a quick second one," Trump told reporters. While he did not provide a specific timeline for the proposed second summit, the President expressed a desire to act swiftly. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskyy and myself, if theyd like to have me there," he added.

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The Friday meeting marks the first official engagement between a sitting US President and the Russian leader since Trump assumed office for his second term in January this year. Scheduled to take place in Anchorage, the summit will primarily focus on efforts to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has now entered its fourth year with no comprehensive peace deal in sight.

Although expressing hope for progress, Trump also issued a clear warning to Moscow regarding the potential consequences of failure. He made it known that the US expects results from the summit, particularly in terms of reaching an agreement to end hostilities. Yes, they will," Trump responded when asked whether Russia would face consequences if no deal was reached.

While the President did not elaborate on the exact nature of the consequences, he hinted there will be severe results.

Will Russia face any consequences if Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war after your meeting on Friday?"@POTUS: Yes, they will." pic.twitter.com/lLfbR0iHxj Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 13, 2025

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Trumps remarks followed a phone conversation with European leaders and President Zelenskyy in the lead-up to the meeting. Describing the call as productive, Trump said, He was on the call. President Zelenskyy was on the call. I would rate it a 10, very friendly."

Following that discussion, Trump reiterated his hopes for a swift second summit. Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first. Because the first is: Im going to find out where we are and what were doing," he said.

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 23:57 IST

News world Trump Eyes Trilateral Summit With Zelenskyy, Putin If Alaska Meeting Succeeds

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US Applauds Pakistan For Success In Containing Terrorists Days After Adding Terror Tag To TRF

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:13 IST

The praise for Pakistan comes days after the US designated The Resistance Front -- involved in the Pahalgam attack -- as a terrorist organisation before tensions with India rose.

US praises Pakistan over "counterterrorism" (AP Image)

In a move likely to further deepen ongoing tensions with India, the United States has applauded Pakistans continued success" in fighting terrorist entities that pose a threat to peace and security of the region".

A joint statement, released by both countries after the Pakistan-US Counter-Terrorism Dialogue held in Islamabad on Tuesday, said that they reaffirmed the commitment" to combating terrorism". This comes even though India put out strong evidence of the Pakistani link of the Pahalgam attack terrorists in front of the world.

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The development also comes days after the US designated The Resistance Front  an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba  as both a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).

What Did US-Pakistan Joint Statement Say?

The United States applauded Pakistans continued successes to contain terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world," Pakistans foreign ministry quoted the joint statement as saying.

The Dialogue was co-chaired by Pakistans Special Secretary for the United Nations, Nabeel Munir, and the US Department of States Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism, Gregory D LoGerfo.

The statement mentioned the Balochistan Liberation Army, ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and said that their activities pose terrorist threats to Pakistan.

This comes a day after the US designated the BLA and its alias, The Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation, shortly after the second visit of Pakistani army chief Asim Munir to the United States in two months.

The BLA has been fighting for decades against the Pakistani government for independence.

Furthermore, the United States expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the barbaric Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar," the statement said.

India-US Tensions

Tensions have been on the rise between the US and India over Donald Trumps 50% tariffs on India for buying Russian oil. India has, however, stood its ground in the face of US threats and vowed not to compromise on its national interest.

The tensions began a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi contradicted Trumps repeated claims of his mediation in the ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor on May 10.

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Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister clarified without taking any names that no world leader asked India to stop Operation Sindoor, and it was the Pakistani DGMO who reached out to his Indian counterpart, seeking a ceasefire.

Trump has been claiming that he used trade as a tool to convince both warring nations to agree to a ceasefire. However, PM Modis clarification in the Parliament called out Trumps claims, setting the record straight on India-Pakistan military conflict.

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: August 13, 2025, 07:27 IST

News world US Applauds Pakistan For Success In Containing Terrorists Days After Adding Terror Tag To TRF

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'Ties With India, Pakistan Remain Unchanged': State Department Days After Asim Munir's US Visit

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 08:19 IST

US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Washingtons ties with India and Pakistan remain unchanged, reaffirming commitment to both nations.

US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce speaks at a press briefing (Photo: PTI)

Washingtons relationship with India and Pakistan remains unchanged, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said during a media address on Wednesday, adding that the diplomats are committed to both nations.

Her remark came while she was questioned about Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs recent visit to the United States and his nuclear threats against India.

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Speaking at the State Department briefing, Bruce stated that Washingtons relationship with both nations remains unchanged" and that the diplomats are committed to both countries."

We had an experience with Pakistan and India. When there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible," she asserted.

There was immediate concern and movement with Vice President JD Vance, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in addressing the nature of what was happening," Bruce said.

She claimed diplomatic efforts were made to prevent the conflict from escalating, stating, We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring."

Its a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance and the top leaders in this nation were involved in stopping that potential catastrophe," she added.

Also highlighting the US-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue, which was established in Islamabad on Tuesday, she affirmed, The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad."

The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats," she added.

For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future thats beneficial," she added.

On Asim Munir and his anti-India rant, Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon analyst, had earlier said that Pakistans behaviour was completely unacceptable" and compared the army chiefs rhetoric to statements previously made by ISIS and Osama bin Laden.

Pakistan is raising questions in many peoples minds about whether it can fulfil the responsibilities of being a state," Rubin said. The Field Marshals rhetoric is reminiscent of what weve heard from the Islamic State."

Rubin called for immediate diplomatic consequences, including stripping Pakistan of its status as a major non-NATO ally and potentially designating it as a state sponsor of terrorism. He also suggested that General Munir should be declared persona non grata and banned from receiving US visas.

ALSO READ | After Aggressive War Rhetoric, Pakistan Urges India To Resume Indus Waters Treaty

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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: August 13, 2025, 06:47 IST

News world 'Ties With India, Pakistan Remain Unchanged': State Department Days After Asim Munir's US Visit

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War-Ravaged Gaza Grapples With Deadly Surge In Antibiotic-Resistant Disease

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 19:42 IST

Researchers analysed over 1,300 samples collected from al-Ahli hospital, which hosts one of the few remaining functional microbiology laboratories in the territory

A malnourished Palestinian child receives a check-up in al-Mawasi, Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip, on August 13. (AFP photo)

The situation in Gaza shows no sign of easing, as the region now faces a growing public health crisis with the rapid spread of antibiotic-resistant infections, raising fears of increased deaths from common illnesses.

According to new research published in The Lancet, this is the first study since the conflict began in October 2023 to reveal the widespread presence of multi-drug-resistant bacteria in Gaza, The Guardian reported.

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Researchers analysed over 1,300 samples collected from al-Ahli hospital, which hosts one of the few remaining functional microbiology laboratories in the territory. They found that nearly two-thirds of the samples contained bacteria resistant to multiple antibiotics.

This will mean longer and more serious illnesses and a high risk of transmission to others. It means an increased risk of death from really common infections. It means more amputations," said Krystel Moussally, an epidemiology adviser with Medecins Sans Frontieres. Its a horrible picture."

Experts warn that the spread of drug-resistant disease is worsened by Gazas collapsed healthcare system, the lack of clean water and sanitation, and severe shortages of medicine. Hunger and malnutrition among the 2.3 million people living in Gaza have made many more vulnerable to infection.

Co-author Bilal Irfan, a researcher with Harvards Brigham and Womens Hospital, said the findings are particularly alarming" and stressed that the true scale of the crisis remains unknown due to the destruction of labs and deaths of medical staff.

Gaza has long struggled with antibiotic resistance due to repeated conflicts and an Israeli blockade in place since 2007. However, experts say the current situation is unprecedented.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had urged Israel to allow more medical aid into Gaza. We want to stock up, and we all hear about more humanitarian supplies are allowed in  well its not happening yet, or its happening at a way too low a pace," said Rik Peeperkorn, WHOs representative in the Palestinian territories.

According to the WHO, only 50% of hospitals and 38% of primary healthcare centres in Gaza are partially functioning, with bed occupancy reaching 300% at some facilities.

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Israels Ministry of Defence said it has sent over 45,000 tonnes of medical supplies to Gaza and helped set up 13 field hospitals. It also stated it will continue to allow medical aid in, while preventing its misuse by Hamas.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian health ministry said 89 people were killed and over 500 injured in Israeli strikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, bringing the death toll since October 2023 to 61,599.

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 : Palestine

First Published: August 13, 2025, 19:20 IST

News world War-Ravaged Gaza Grapples With Deadly Surge In Antibiotic-Resistant Disease

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Who Is Aravind Srinivas? Meet Perplexity CEO Behind $34.5 Billion Bid For Google Chrome

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Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 01:02 IST

He co-founded Perplexity AI in 2022 alongside Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho, and Andy Konwinski.

Srinivas, 31, was born and raised in Chennai, India (File photo: X)

An Indian-origin tech entrepreneur is making waves across the tech world after making an audacious offer to acquire Google Chrome. Aravind Srinivas, CEO of the AI startup Perplexity, recently sent a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai on August 12, proposing an all-cash acquisition of the popular web browser, as reported by Reuters.

In a bold and unexpected move, Srinivas company has offered a staggering $34.5 billion to purchase Google Chrome, despite Perplexity AI reportedly being valued at around $18 billion. The unsolicited bid, which significantly overshoots the companys own valuation, has sparked surprise and curiosity across the global tech landscape.

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Srinivas, 31, was born and raised in Chennai, India. A graduate of IIT Madras, he later pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley. He co-founded Perplexity AI in 2022 alongside Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho, and Andy Konwinski. The companys core product is an AI-powered search engine designed to deliver direct, conversational answers using real-time information, positioning itself as a potential challenger to traditional search engines like Google.

Before launching Perplexity, Srinivas accumulated valuable experience in the AI and tech ecosystem, having previously worked at Google, and collaborated with influential AI researcher Yoshua Bengio. These formative roles helped shape his expertise in search and information retrieval technologies, which are now at the heart of his companys mission.

The timing of the bid is noteworthy. Google is currently facing legal challenges following a major antitrust ruling in the United States. A US District Judge recently ruled that Google had maintained its search monopoly through illegal practices, including paying billions to remain the default search option on devices and browsers. Google has announced plans to appeal, but the litigation process could take years.

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So far, Google has not issued a public response to Srinivas acquisition offer. While Perplexity has only raised around $1 billion to date, it claims that multiple investment firms have offered to fully fund the proposed deal. However, the company has not disclosed the names of these potential financiers.

Whether Google will entertain the proposal remains unclear, but the bid has already placed Aravind Srinivas and Perplexity AI firmly in the global spotlight.

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 14, 2025, 01:02 IST

News world Who Is Aravind Srinivas? Meet Perplexity CEO Behind $34.5 Billion Bid For Google Chrome

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Who Is Kim Ju-Ae, Kim Jong-Un's Teen Daughter Preparing To Take Over North Korea?

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 16:59 IST

North Korea's tightly controlled press has never spoken her name, referring to her only as the leaders "most beloved" or "respected" daughter

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Kim Ju Ae has appeared frequently in state media since 2022. (AP Photo)

North Koreas closely guarded leadership succession plan may already be taking shape, with mounting indications that ruler Kim Jong-un is preparing his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, to one day assume control of the isolated, nuclear-armed state. The New York Times reported, citing multiple analysts, that Kim appears to be positioning Ju Ae as his heir. The assessment is echoed by Cho Tae-yong, newly appointed head of South Koreas National Intelligence Service (NIS), though both stress that no formal decision has been announced.

Ju Aes exact age remains unconfirmed, but South Korean intelligence believes she is around 12 years old. Since her public debut in November 2022, when Kim, in a carefully staged display, held her hand before an intercontinental ballistic missile, she has become a familiar figure in state media, often appearing alongside her father in both military and ceremonial settings.

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North Koreas tightly controlled press has never spoken her name, referring to her only as the leaders most beloved" or respected" daughter. Her voice has never been heard in public, and she holds no known official title. Nonetheless, intelligence agencies and regional experts widely regard her as the leading contender for the countrys fourth-generation leadership under the Kim dynasty.

Observers note a transformation in Ju Aes public persona, from a reserved child to a composed figure comfortable sharing the stage with top generals and dignitaries. Military symbolism has been especially prominent; she has posed beside missiles, stood next to her father during inspections, and been present in high-profile photographs with senior officers. In a striking moment during a 2023 military parade, a top general was seen kneeling before her, an act of deference previously reserved only for Kim himself.

Her increasing visibility recalls the early moves Kim Jong-un made to consolidate his own authority after succeeding his father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011. For a country with rigid patriarchal traditions, the prospect of Ju Ae becoming the first female leader of North Korea would mark an unprecedented shift, though analysts caution such a transition would likely be engineered to preserve the dynastys grip on power.

South Korean intelligence believes Kim has at least two children, possibly three, but Ju Ae is the only one to have appeared publicly. Her emergence as a potential successor may also be influenced by concerns over Kims health.

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At 41, he is reported to suffer from family-linked heart problems, stands about 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weighs around 130 kilograms. Officials say his lifestyle, marked by chain smoking, heavy drinking, overeating, and late-night internet sessions focused on weapons research, could exacerbate health risks.

The Kim dynastys rule dates back to Kim Il Sung, who founded North Korea after World War II. His son, Kim Jong Il, maintained power until his death in 2011, passing the reins to Kim Jong-un.

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Location : North Korea

First Published: August 13, 2025, 16:59 IST

News world Who Is Kim Ju-Ae, Kim Jong-Un's Teen Daughter Preparing To Take Over North Korea?

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Why Did Russia Sell Alaska To The US In 1867 And For How Much?

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 16:11 IST

Alaska, bought from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, was mocked initially but proved valuable with gold, oil, and strategic importance

The 1968 discovery of massive oil reserves in Prudhoe Bay turned the state into one of the US most important energy hubs. (News18 Hindi)

Alaska, one of the most remote and strategically important states of the United States, has suddenly become the focus of global headlines. On August 15, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin here in a bid to negotiate an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting location is symbolic as Alaska has a history deeply intertwined with Russia, having once been part of its territory.

Nearly two centuries ago, Russia controlled this vast expanse of land, but the harsh climate, administrative challenges, and post-war financial troubles made it increasingly difficult to maintain. Facing mounting costs after the Crimean War (18531856), Russia decided to sell Alaska to the United States for a sum that today sounds astonishingly small, roughly Rs 63 crores in current value.

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The 1867 Alaska Purchase

The landmark transaction, known historically as the Alaska Purchase or Sewards Folly, was finalised on March 30, 1867. At the time, US Secretary of State William H Seward negotiated directly with Russian officials, agreeing to buy Alaska for $7.2 million, about two cents per acre. Skeptics across the US mocked the deal, calling it Sewards Folly" or Sewards Icebox", convinced the land was barren and useless. Seward, however, remained confident it would prove both strategically and economically valuable.

Formally transferred to the US on October 18, 1867, a date now marked as Alaska Day, the territory later revealed abundant reserves of gold, oil, and other resources that transformed Americas wealth and global standing.

Why The Deal Happened

Russias decision to sell was shaped by both practical and strategic considerations. Harsh winters and isolation made governance difficult, while financial pressures pushed Russia toward a permanent sale. The arrangement was legal, binding, and designed to prevent future disputes, something that has held true even during Cold War tensions and into the modern day.

After the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, Russia never formally sought to reclaim Alaska. While nationalist slogans like Alaska is ours" resurfaced briefly in 2014 following the annexation of Crimea, they were largely symbolic gestures without official backing from the Kremlin.

Size And Scale

Alaska spans 1,723,337 square kilometres, making it the largest state in the US, nearly half the size of India and over five times larger than Rajasthan. Its vastness surpasses Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh combined.

Economic And Strategic Goldmine

The true value of Alaska emerged gradually. The Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s brought thousands of prospectors to its rugged terrain, yielding millions of ounces of gold. Later, the 1968 discovery of massive oil reserves in Prudhoe Bay turned the state into one of the US most important energy hubs, with the Trans-Alaska Pipeline ensuring efficient transport.

Beyond oil and gas, Alaska boasts vast reserves of copper, coal, and zinc, alongside one of the most lucrative fishing industries in the nation, supplying salmon, crab, and other seafood on a massive scale.

Its geographical location, close to Asia and Russia, made it a strategic military asset during World War II and the Cold War. Today, military bases here remain critical to US defence operations in the Pacific.

Tourism also fuels the states economy, with glaciers, wildlife, and national parks drawing millions of visitors annually. The Alaska Permanent Fund, established from oil revenues, even pays annual dividends to residents.

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A Purchase That Paid Off

Initially dismissed as a folly, the Alaska deal is now regarded as one of the most profitable real estate transactions in US history, a move that not only enriched America but also bolstered its global strategic position.

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: August 13, 2025, 16:11 IST

News world Why Did Russia Sell Alaska To The US In 1867 And For How Much?

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NEW DELHI, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet U.S. President Donald Trump during his visit to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next month, local newspaper Indian Express said Wednesday.

According to the newspaper, preparations are underway to schedule a visit by Modi to the U.S. in the last week of September.

"The key objective will be to iron out the issues on trade and arrive at a common ground on tariffs," the newspaper said. 
'Will Not Leave': Zelenskyy Vows To Defend East Ukraine Flashpoint Amid Trump's Land Swap Plan

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Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 10:06 IST

Zelenskyy has rejected Putins proposal for Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of Donetsk as part of a ceasefire, warning it would hand Moscow nearly all of Donbas.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (AFP File Image)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has refused to agree to Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trumps proposal for Kyiv withdrawing from the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region that Ukraine controls as part of a ceasefire deal.

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Ahead of the much-talked-about Alaska summit between Trump and Putin, scheduled for Friday, Zelenskyy warned that giving up the territory would hand Moscow almost the entirety of the Donbas, a long-sought prize for the Kremlin.

The demand, Zelenskyy said, was conveyed by US officials after US President Donald Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin, and reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls.

Addressing a news briefing in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said, And that, probably, Putin wants us to leave Donbas. That is, it didnt sound like America wants us to leave."

More meetings at the level of National Security Advisors further clarified what Russia actually wanted, Zelenskyy said.

We will not leave Donbas. We cannot do it," Zelenskyy said.

For Russians, Donbas is a springboard for a future new offensive," he added.

The region demanded by Russia was too strategically important to give up, he said, because it was a heavily fortified area that protected Ukraines central cities.

I have heard nothing, not a single proposal, that would guarantee that a new war will not start tomorrow and that Putin will not try to occupy at least Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv," Zelenskyy said.

The Ukrainian President also said he believed Putin wanted to dominate his country because he does not want a sovereign Ukraine".

According to reports, Putin wants Kyiv to pull out of the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region under its control, about 9,000 square kilometres, as part of a ceasefire deal.

On Monday, Donald Trump had said that Kyiv and Moscow will both have to cede land to end the war in Ukraine, and talks with Putin this week will instantly show whether the Kremlin leader is willing to make a deal.

It was also reported that European leaders and Zelenskyy plan to speak with Trump ahead of his summit with Putin in Alaska, amid fears Washington may dictate unfavourable peace terms to Ukraine.

Trump has hardened his stance towards Moscow by agreeing to allow additional US weapons to reach Ukraine and threatening tariffs against buyers of Russian oil, but fears have persisted in Europe that he might agree to a deal that forces big concessions from Kyiv.

In the past, too, Trump has talked about land swaps, but neither Russia nor Ukraine has been open to ceding land as part of a peace deal.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said, Therell be some land swapping going on."

I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody, to the good of Ukraine," he said, adding that Russia had occupied some very prime territory" but were going to try to get some of that territory back."

ALSO READ | Trump, Vance To Meet Zelenskyy Virtually Before Alaska Summit With Putin: Report

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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: August 13, 2025, 09:51 IST

News world 'Will Not Leave': Zelenskyy Vows To Defend East Ukraine Flashpoint Amid Trump's Land Swap Plan

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CANBERRA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government announced on Wednesday it will fast-track an assessment to determine if any flora and fauna affected by a toxic algal bloom off the country's south coast should be added to the threatened species list.

Murray Watt, Australia's Minister for the Environment and Water, said during a visit to South Australia (SA) on Wednesday that he will expedite an expert assessment of the impact of the toxic algal on marine life.

Since it was first detected off the coast of SA in March, the outbreak of the toxic algae Karenia mikimotoi has caused the deaths of thousands of marine creatures, including sharks, octopuses and penguins, across 500 kilometers of coastline.

Watt said in a statement on Wednesday that the outbreak has had a "devastating impact" on more than 400 species.

He said that he has written to the chair of the Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC), which advises the government on updating the threatened species list, to urgently investigate whether any species need to be added to the list as a result of the algal outbreak.

Once a species is officially listed as threatened, it can have a legally-binding recovery plan developed and adopted until it is removed from the list.

"We can leave no stone unturned to understand the impact of this on local marine life, so we can begin investing in the appropriate strategies to bring these important animals back to healthy numbers," Watt said.

Authorities from the SA National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on Wednesday morning removed a dead dolphin that had washed up on Henley Beach in the western suburbs of the state capital of Adelaide.

The NPWS said that a necropsy would be undertaken to investigate the cause of death but that marine mammals are not believed to be at "immediate risk" from the algal bloom.

According to the SA Department of Environment and Water, possible contributing factors to the bloom include a marine heatwave and extra nutrients being washed into the sea by flooding. The department says that no human intervention can be made to dilute or dissipate the algae.

The federal and SA state governments in July committed 28 million Australian dollars (18.3 million U.S. dollars) in joint funding for the response to the bloom, including science and research and clean up efforts.

Watt on Monday apologized to South Australians who had criticized both governments for being too slow to respond to the crisis. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to inspect the algal bloom later in August. 
VLADIVOSTOK, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Russia's nuclear-powered missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov is expected to begin sea trials in August or September, local media reported on Wednesday.

The cruiser is now "in the final stage of preparation for sea trials," said RIA Novosti, quoting a source from Russia's defense industry. "All systems, units and equipment are undergoing checks, and the delivery crew is being formed."

In July, Andrei Kostin, head of the VTB Bank and chairman of the board of directors of the United Shipbuilding Corporation, said that repairs on the Admiral Nakhimov had been completed and the ship was ready for trials.

The Admiral Nakhimov, a Kirov-class battlecruiser, is the largest surface combat ship in the Russian Navy, with a displacement of over 25,000 tons and a nuclear propulsion system. It is designed to destroy large surface targets and provide integrated air and anti-submarine defense.

Built in the late 1980s, the cruiser served with the Northern Fleet before being sent for repairs in the late 1990s. The overhaul and modernization work began in 2013. 
Federal prosecutors have charged 13 Dominican Republic nationals with orchestrating a scheme that defrauded more than 400 American grandparents out of $5 million by pretending to be grandchildren in distress. According to authorities, the suspects operated organized call centers in the Dominican Republic, where English-speaking callers contacted elderly victimsthe average age was 84 years old, per a Justice Department release across states including Massachusetts, California, New York, Florida, and Maryland, reports NBC News .

Posing as grandkids in dire straits, such as being involved in an accident or arrest, the callers manipulated victims into sending money to help them out. In many cases, the scammers called the same individuals repeatedly, inventing new emergencies to extract even more money. Prosecutors say the operation was systematic, with some perpetrators even employing people on US soil to collect cash directly from victims' homes. At times, the callers used specific names; in others, they stuck to vague scripts, identifying themselves only as, say, "your oldest grandson."

US Attorney Leah Foley described the impact as both financially and emotionally damaging, noting that many victims lost not only their savings but also their trust in others. Of the 13 charged, nine are in custody, while fourlocated in New York, New Jersey, and Floridaremain at large. The suspects face charges of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, as well as money laundering, each carrying potential 20-year prison sentences.

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Officials emphasized that such "grandparent scams" are on the rise, with recent cases in Canada involving even larger sums. FBI Special Agent Ted Docks called the attacks "calculated, coldhearted, and cruel," warning that overseas criminal networks are targeting US seniors at "epidemic levels." MassLive.com has the names of all 13 suspects.
A Guatemalan judge on Tuesday convicted six former officials in connection with the deaths of 41 girls in a 2017 fire at a facility for at-risk youth that had a history of abuse. All six had all pleaded not guilty. Judge Ingrid Cifuentes handed down cumulative sentences of six years to 25 years for charges including manslaughter and abuse of authority. She also ordered the investigation of former President Jimmy Morales, the AP reports, for his role in ordering police to work at the facility housing minors who had not committed any crimes.

Prosecutors had requested sentences of up to 131 years for some of the suspects, who were all former government workers, including several whose duties included protecting children. Emily del Cid Linares, 25, a survivor of the fire who suffered burns, said she was satisfied with the verdict. "What I most feel is that they (the victims) will be able to rest in peace," she said. The people responsible "are going to pay for what they did." Revelations include:

Denial: Former Social Welfare Secretary Carlos Rodas was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Earlier, Rodas told those gathered in the courtroom, including relatives of the victims, that he had not caused "any harm to their daughters and the survivors."

"Let them burn" : Also convicted was ex-police officer Lucinda Marroquin, who held the key to the room where the girls were locked up and didn't open it when the fire started. She was sentenced to 13 years. The judge said that through phone records, investigators were able to establish that at the time of the fire, Marroquin was talking on her phone and when told about the blaze, a witness testified, she responded with profanity and said "let them burn."

: Also convicted was ex-police officer Lucinda Marroquin, who held the key to the room where the girls were locked up and didn't open it when the fire started. She was sentenced to 13 years. The judge said that through phone records, investigators were able to establish that at the time of the fire, Marroquin was talking on her phone and when told about the blaze, a witness testified, she responded with profanity and said "let them burn." The fire: On March 8, 2017, a girl at the Virgen de la Asuncion Safe Homelocated 14 miles east of Guatemala Citylit a foam mattress on fire in the room where a group of girls had been locked up for hours without access to a bathroom. Smoke and flames quickly filled the room, killing 41 girls and injuring 15.

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The children : About 700 childrenno one had exact numberslived at the facility, which had a maximum capacity for 500. The majority had committed no crime. They were sent there by the courts for various reasonsthey had run away or were abused, or were migrants. The night before the fire, a group of girls had escaped. Hours later, the police returned them to the home. They were locked in a room that had no access to a bathroom and guarded by police. They were given foam mattresses to sleep on. After hours of demanding to be let out, one girl lit the fire.

: About 700 childrenno one had exact numberslived at the facility, which had a maximum capacity for 500. The majority had committed no crime. They were sent there by the courts for various reasonsthey had run away or were abused, or were migrants. The night before the fire, a group of girls had escaped. Hours later, the police returned them to the home. They were locked in a room that had no access to a bathroom and guarded by police. They were given foam mattresses to sleep on. After hours of demanding to be let out, one girl lit the fire. The judge's findings: Cifuentes said the fire was the culmination of a series of abuses, some of which had been reported to authorities, but not acted on. She said autopsies confirmed the presence of drugs in some of the girls, which supported their complaints that they were given sleeping pills. The pills were among the reasons they had tried to escape the facility.

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The AP has more about the home and the fire here
Hackers with suspected ties to Russia recently penetrated the federal court filing system, exposing sensitive documents and highlighting major security flaws in one of the US justice system's most critical networks, the New York Times reports. The hack targeted the computer network that manages federal court documents, including classified records that could expose sensitive sources and individuals charged with national security violations. While it's still unclear whether the operation was run directly by Russian intelligence or if other nations were involved, officials say the infiltration appears to have been a prolonged campaign, possibly years-long.

Court administrators recently alerted the Justice Department and federal judges that "persistent and sophisticated" hackers had compromised sealed court records, advising urgent removal of the most sensitive files from the digital system. The intrusion reportedly included cases involving people with Russian and Eastern European surnames across at least eight district courts, including in New York City and in several Midwestern states. The Eastern District of New York now requires such files to be kept on separate drives, outside the main PACER database.

Officials are still trying to determine what information was accessed and how deeply the hackers penetrated the system, which has long been seen as vulnerable to foreign threats. There was a similar attack on the court filing system in 2020, during President Trump's first term. Russian hackers were also suspected of playing a role in that breach, Politico reports. A source with knowledge of the latest hack tells the outlet, "It was like taking candy from a baby for these guys."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected the idea of ceding the Donbas region to Russia in exchange for a ceasefire, warning that such a move would only pave the way for further Russian offensives, the BBC reports. His remarks come as Russian forces notch fresh gains near the eastern town of Dobropillia, reportedly advancing six miles in a new push.

Zelensky's comments set the stage for a high-stakes meeting between US President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Fridaya summit from which Kyiv is notably sidelined. Trump has floated the idea of "swapping territories," suggesting that a deal might see Russia take control of all of Donbas and keep Crimea, an idea that has sparked unease in Ukraine and across Europe. Meanwhile, Putin spoke to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on the phone ahead of the Alaska summit, and reaffirmed they are in alignment regarding the Ukraine war, the AP reports.

Zelensky, speaking both to reporters and in his nightly address, underscored that surrendering the Donbas (which comprises the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk) would remove a critical defensive buffer and invite further Russian attacks. "If we withdraw from the Donbas today we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive," he warned.

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Russian troops hold almost 20% of Ukrainian territory overall, maintaining control over nearly all of Luhansk and about 70% of Donetsk, and Zelensky says Russia wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of Donetsk as part of a ceasefire dealwhich Zelensky vowed not to do, the AP reports. As reports swirl about new offensives planned in several regions, Zelensky voiced skepticism about the closed-door Alaska summit, noting the absence of Ukrainian representation and calling the choice of location a "personal victory" for Putin. The Ukrainian president will be in Berlin Wednesday for virtual meetings with European and US leaders ahead of the Alaska summit, the AP reports.
A police department in Southern California recovered about $30,000 worth of Labubu dolls that were stolen from a warehouse, the agency announced this week. The collectible items have recently surged in popularity. The Labubus were stolen in a series of trips that spanned multiple days, the Chino Police Department said in a Facebook post congratulating the "Outstanding teamwork in bringing this case to a close!" Two suspects, both minors, were later identified as workers at the warehouse, the department said. Law enforcement found the items at a home in Upland, a city in the state's Inland Empire, reports the AP .

The announcement comes as authorities in Los Angeles County investigate a separate incident in which thieves stole about $7,000 worth of the toothy little monsters from a store in La Puente. Chino Police obtained a search warrant to enter the home in Upland, the agency said. One suspect attempted to flee but later surrendered, the department said. The other was apprehended in a nearby city Tuesday, days after detectives searched the home, police said. Both were booked in San Bernardino County juvenile hall for suspected burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary. Detectives found 14 boxes of stolen items and evidence indicating the suspects were planning to resell and ship the collectibles across the country, the department said.
A random shooting outside a Target store in Texas began when a gunman killed an employee collecting shopping carts then a man and his 4-year-old granddaughter, sparking a chaotic hour of stolen cars and crashes that ended with him arrested naked holding a Bible, police said Tuesday. Ethan Nieneker, 32, is charged with two counts of capital murder and one count of murder over Monday's shooting in Austin, the AP reports. After shooting the Target employee, Nieneker shot the grandfather as he sat in the driver's seat of his sport utility vehicle, then fatally shot the little girl in the back seat before stealing the vehicle and driving away fast, police said.

"It was a completely random choosing of the victims," Sgt. Nathan Sexton said. Police said the Target employee, Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24, was taken to a hospital where he died. Adam Chow, 65, and his granddaughter were pronounced dead at the scene while Chow's wife sustained minor injuries. The name of the child was not released. Over the next hour, Nieneker tried to steal a water truck at a construction site, caused multiple vehicle crashes, wrecked Chow's vehicle, and then stole a Volkswagen he'd crashed into, police said. He also tried to break into a Waymo self-driving vehicle, threw a brick through the home of an acquaintance, and walked naked through a backyard.

Officers found Nieneker walking naked on a street after he ditched his clothes in a portable toilet, police said. He was holding a Bible and was subdued with a Taser when he would not comply with demands. "He said that he was Jesus," Sexton said. Court records for Nieneker show a series of past arrests for domestic violence and assault. The police chief said that although Nieneker had a history of mental health issues, she was unaware of any specific diagnosis. Sexton said the firearm Nieneker used in the attacks was acquired through family.
A notorious Haitian gang leader known as "Barbecue" is now facing criminal charges in the US. On Tuesday, the Justice Department announced its grand-jury indictment against Jimmy Cherizier, accusing the 48-year-old and American Bazile Richardson (aka Leo Danger), also 48, of cajoling money out of members of the Haitian diaspora in the US to give to gang members and purchase guns in violation of US sanctions, reports the BBC . Cherizier helms the Viv Ansanm (Live Together) gang, which has been tied to attacks on local infrastructure, kidnappings, and murders and been designated by the US as a foreign terror organization.

Especially of note: a 2018 massacre in the La Saline neighborhood of Port-au-Prince in which dozens were killed, women were raped, and hundreds of homes were destroyed, which Cherizier was linked to. "He's a gang leader responsible for heinous human rights abuses, including violence against American citizens in Haiti," US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said at a Tuesday presser. The AP has more on his history as an elite police officer until he was fired in 2018, and of his background organizing mass killings, which he has long denied. The US is offering a $5 million reward for information leading to Cherizier's arrest; if arrested, he could be extradited to the US.
BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China urges the United States to stop overstretching the concept of security, and to cease slandering and disrupting China's economic and trade cooperation with other countries, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks when asked to comment on allegations from U.S. officials and analysts, who have said that Chinese companies have built a network of ports around the world in order to exercise control over global commerce, conduct so-called espionage and take other moves.

"We hope the U.S. side will stop overstretching the concept of security, cease its peddling of the so-called China threat, and stop slandering and disrupting China's economic and trade cooperation with other countries," Lin stressed. 
Officials in a rural Tennessee town voted Tuesday to turn a former prison into an immigration detention facility operated by a private company, despite loud objections from upset residents and activists during a contentious public meeting. The decision will turn the closed West Tennessee Detention Facility into a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center run by CoreCivic Inc., reports the AP . Present were a few dozen vocal, angry members of the public who oppose allowing ICE to house immigrants in Mason who have been taken into custody as President Trump pushes for mass deportations.

CoreCivic will resume operating the facility, which was closed in 2021 after President Biden ordered the Department of Justice to stop renewing contracts with private detention facilities. Trump reversed that order in January. A second vote approved an agreement with ICE. Mayor Eddie Noeman said he wanted to reopen the shuttered prison to bring jobs and economic development to the town of about 1,300, which has struggled. When it was open, the prison was the town's largest employer and an important economic engine.

Noeman, an Egyptian-American immigrant and a longtime business owner in the town, called turning the closed prison over to CoreCivic and ICE a "win-win situation," which led to a cascade of loud boos. At times, Noeman argued with attendees, questioning whether they actually live in Mason and telling them "you don't know what you're talking about." Board member Virginia Rivers told the AP that she doesn't support turning the prison into an ICE facility because "I don't like what ICE stands for, how they treat the people." She said approving the contracts would make Mason "complicit in the abusive treatment of immigrants." Some members of the public who spoke said Mason is a majority-Black town with a history of being treated with disrespect.

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CoreCivic said the ICE facility would create nearly 240 new jobs, and is advertising openings for detention officers at $26.50 per hour. The facility would also generate about $325,000 in annual property tax revenue and $200,000 for Mason, the company said. Tennessee's corrections agency has fined CoreCivic $44.7 million across four prisons from 2022 through February, including for understaffing violations. Records also show the company has spent more than $4.4 million to settle about 80 lawsuits and out-of-court complaints alleging mistreatmentincluding at least 22 inmate deathsat four Tennessee prisons and two jails from 2016 through September 2024.
A federal appeals court has ruled that teams from the Department of Government Efficiency can tap into sensitive databases at several federal agencies, reversing a previous block on their access. The 2-1 decision Tuesday by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals permits DOGE to retrieve information from the Treasury and Education Departments and the Office of Personnel Management, per the New York Times. This clearance follows a similar Supreme Court action in June regarding Social Security data. The majority opinion, authored by Judge Julius Richardson, drew parallels to that earlier case, emphasizing the need for DOGE analysts to "do their work." DOGE's stated mission is to root out government waste, redundant contracts, and fraud.
Illinois has enacted a new law barring the use of artificial intelligence in mental health therapy, making it the latest state to place restrictions on AI-powered chatbots in this space. The legislation , which took effect last week, prohibits licensed therapists from using AI to make treatment decisions or communicate with clients, though the technology can still be used for administrative purposes. The law also blocks companies from offering or advertising AI therapy services unless a licensed professional is involved, per the Washington Post .

Illinois joins Nevada and Utah in scrutinizing AI's role in therapy, though those states' rules vary in strictness. The move follows growing concerns about the safety of AI chatbots as therapy tools, with accounts of chatbots giving risky advice to vulnerable users, as well as users unwittingly sharing private information in conversations that aren't always confidential.

Some mental health and AI experts have welcomed the oversight, arguing that regulation is overdue in a field where technology remains unpredictable. "We have already heard the horror stories when artificial intelligence pretends to be a licensed therapist," Democratic Rep. Bob Morgan tells Mashable. With this new law, he adds, "we are taking action to pause the unchecked expansion of AI in mental health care and putting necessary regulation in place before more harm is done."

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Still, enforcement could prove tricky. Questions remain about how authorities will define therapy services and whether AI companies might skirt the rules by adding disclaimers. Illinois' financial regulation department will investigate complaints, with violators facing fines up to $10,000. (Here, a disturbing take by the Wall Street Journal on how ChatGPT has driven "delusional spirals" in some.)
It's been 13 years since the last visual proof that Austin Tice was alive. The US journalist believed to have been taken prisoner in Syria by Bashar al-Assad's regime in August 2012, appeared in a video released the following month. But all these years later, Tice's parents hope he's still out there, trying to get home. A former Syrian captive claimed to have seen the US journalist in a Damascus prison in 2022 , though when the prison doors were opened after the fall of the Assad regime in December, Tice didn't emerge. A former Syrian general who served under Assad told US investigators that Tice was actually killed in captivity in 2013 , but US officials have been unable to confirm that.

Now, the case get a fresh look by the Washington Post, which spoke with more than 70 people on four continents to get a picture of the man and the efforts to rescue him. The story tracks the former Marine's quick transition to journalism; his determination to get to Damascus; his life-saving assistance to rebels with the Free Syrian Army, some of whom believed he was a spy; and what some colleagues saw as Tice's reckless behavior on the ground.

By August, he was preparing to leave Syria but was reportedly betrayed by a taxi driver and handed over to the Assad regime, which "remained opaque and implacable until the end," per the Post, even as the US considered offering medical equipment to Assad's cancer-stricken wife in exchange for information in 2020. President Trump's comment about having wanted to assassinate Assad around that time probably didn't help. Some involved in the search "say it is possible there will never be definitive proof of his fate," per the Post. But though the lack of answers remains frustrating, he knew what he'd walked into. "There are actually things out there worth dying for," Tice wrote weeks before his disappearance. "Coming here to Syria is the greatest thing I've ever done." Read the full investigation.
Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky and top European leaders spoke by phone Wednesday with President Trump in an attempt to get on the same page ahead of Trump's Friday meeting with Vladimir Putin. All the major players, including Trump, praised the call afterward, though how that will translate into Friday's deal-making remains unclear. Highlights:

The other world leaders emphasized one crucial point, reports the Washington Postthat Trump can't "negotiate away any Ukrainian territory." (Trump has been talking this week about the need for "land swapping.") They also want a ceasefire in place before peace negotiations begin in earnest between Russia and Ukraine.

"We had a very good call," Trump told reporters afterward, per the New York Times. "I would rate it a 10. Very friendly." He warned that "there will be very severe consequences" for Russia if Putin doesn't agree to end the war.
A federal appeals court has allowed the Trump administration to continue withholding billions in foreign aid funding already allocated by Congress. The case revolved around President Trump's use of impoundmentthe authority to delay or block spending. Aid groups had argued that power has strict legal limits, the New York Times reports. But in a 2-1 decision, an appeals panel said that only the Government Accountability Office, not the nonprofits dependent on the funds, had the standing to challenge these freezes under the Impoundment Control Act of 1974.

Wednesday's ruling on procedural grounds rather than constitutionality, per ABC News, from the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit overturns a lower court order that forced the administration to disburse funds set aside for global health and HIV/AIDS programs. With this new decision, the White House gains broader leeway to curtail or eliminate foreign aid programs unless the GAO, which so far has opted not to sue, chooses to intervene. That could result in billions in foreign aid being cut this year. The administration's withholding of funds has drawn criticism from the GAO, which found several instances in which Trump officials improperly held back money earmarked by Congress. Yet the watchdog has treated legal action as a last resort, letting private lawsuits play out.

The majority opinion, written by Judge Karen Henderson, maintained that grantees cannot make constitutional claims simply by citing separation of powers concerns, per the Times. In dissent, Judge Florence Pan argued courts should not be sidelined when presidents appear to bypass Congress on appropriations. The president of the Global Health Council, lead plaintiff on the suit, called the ruling disappointing, per Politico. "We are committed to standing alongside our fellow plaintiffs in this case and advocating for a resolution that ensures the continued impact of our collective work," Elisha Dunn-Georgiou said.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High around 70F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Low around 55F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
ISLAMABAD, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan and the United States on Tuesday reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest round of the Pakistan-U.S. Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said.

The meeting was co-chaired by Special Secretary for United Nations Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan Nabeel Munir and Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism for the Bureau of Counterterrorism of the U.S. Department of State Gregory D. LoGerfo, the ministry said in a statement.

Discussions focused on consolidating joint efforts against terrorist threats, including those posed by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Islamic State Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Both sides stressed the need for effective strategies to neutralize these groups.

The two sides agreed to enhance institutional mechanisms, strengthen operational capacities, and address the misuse of emerging technologies by terrorist entities. They also pledged to intensify engagement within multilateral platforms, including the United Nations, to advance comprehensive counterterrorism measures.

The two sides emphasized that sustained, structured dialogue remains essential for promoting peace, security, and stability.

The dialogue took place a day after the United States designated the BLA and its affiliate Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organizations. Pakistan welcomed the designation, reaffirming its resolve to protect its citizens and eliminate terrorism. 
OKINAWA, Aug 13 (News On Japan) - Eighty years ago, the fall of Saipan played a decisive role in intensifying air raids on cities such as Osaka and Kobe. Located only about three hours by air from the Japanese mainland, the island was seen by the U.S. military as a strategic base for launching attacks, while Japan regarded it as a vital line of defense.

For many in western Japan, the Battle of Saipan is a distant event, little known despite its role in intensifying air raids on Osaka and Kobe. The American victory became a springboard for attacks on the Japanese mainland, and in the final days of the battle, desperate civilians jumped from the cliffs now called Banzai Cliff. Yamines grandmother was among those who leapt.

Eighty-seven-year-old Hideko So, the grandmothers younger sister, was five years old when the fighting reached her family. She recalls fleeing naked through the mountains, losing her mother and brother to bombings, and seeing the sea turn red with blood as people fell from the cliffs. Captured at Banzai Cliff while waiting for her father to return, she witnessed mothers throwing their children into the sea before jumping themselves.

So has returned to Saipan many times for memorial journeys, visiting the Tower of Okinawa built in 1968 to honor the dead. These visits, now continued by younger generations, bring a sense of closeness to her lost parents and siblings.

Another survivor, captured en route to the cliffs, recalled her mothers intention to leap into the sea together. Many families remains were never found, leaving only stones placed in graves as stand-ins for the dead. Despite the passage of eight decades, bonds between Saipan locals and former residents endure.

An 87-year-old woman from Okinawa, who lost her parents and many siblings in the battle, recalls scenes of mothers throwing themselves from cliffs with their children at the site now known as Banzai Cliff. She appeals for an end to war, saying, "When war breaks out, everyone is blown to pieces. Please, never let it happen again."

Her story was brought to light through interviews conducted by her grandniece, a director at Kansai Television.

Source: KTV NEWS
CALGARY, AB, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - CanAsia Energy Corp. ("CanAsia" or the "Company") (TSXV: CEC) reports 2025 second quarter consolidated financial and operating results.

The Company is today filing its unaudited consolidated financial statements ("financial statements") as at and for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and related management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Copies of these documents may be obtained online at www.sedarplus.com or the Company's website, www.canasiacorp.com.

Commenting today on CanAsia's 2025 second quarter results, President and CEO Jeff Chisholm stated: "CanAsia is working with financial advisors in connection with a process to explore and evaluate alternatives to divest of all or a portion of its interests in the Sawn Lake, Alberta heavy oil project held through its wholly-owned subsidiary Andora. As part of this process, CanAsia is undertaking a comprehensive review to identify and consider a broad range of alternatives to enhance shareholder value through the potential divestment of all or a portion of its interests in Sawn Lake, including, but not limited to, a sale of Andora or a strategic farmout or joint venture with respect to Sawn Lake. In response to initial market outreach, a number of parties have engaged in preliminary discussions with CanAsia and are currently evaluating a potential transaction with respect to Sawn Lake. However, CanAsia has not established a definitive timeline to complete this process and there can be no assurance that it will result in any specific transaction.

Further, under the guidelines of the 2025 Onshore Thailand 25th Oil and Gas Licensing round, CanAsia submitted a bid on concession L8, as part of a consortium and with a non-operated 30% working interest. It is anticipated winning parties with be notified by the Government of Thailand by the first quarter of 2026.

We look forward with anticipation to events over the next 6 months."

HIGHLIGHTS

In July 2025 , the Company, as part of a consortium, submitted a bid to the government of Thailand for one concession with a non-operated 30% participating interest pursuant to the onshore Thailand 25 th licensing round for a contract to explore for, develop, produce, and market oil or gas, in the exploration block onshore Thailand . The Company expects that the government of Thailand will announce awards of concessions in the first quarter of 2026.

, the Company, as part of a consortium, submitted a bid to the government of for one concession with a non-operated 30% participating interest pursuant to the onshore 25 licensing round for a contract to explore for, develop, produce, and market oil or gas, in the exploration block onshore . The Company expects that the government of will announce awards of concessions in the first quarter of 2026. CanAsia had working capital totaling $1.5 million , no long-term debt and shareholders' equity of $6.4 million at June 30, 2025 .

, no long-term debt and shareholders' equity of at . Common shares outstanding were 112.8 million at August 12, 2025 , June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024 .

, and . Net loss in the second quarter of 2025 was $0.9 million ( $0.01 loss per share) compared to net income of $3.3 million ( $0.03 per share) in the second quarter of 2024. Income in the second quarter of 2024 included a partial reversal of impairment of exploration and evaluation assets related to the Sawn Lake working interest by an amount of $4.2 million .

( loss per share) compared to net income of ( per share) in the second quarter of 2024. Income in the second quarter of 2024 included a partial reversal of impairment of exploration and evaluation assets related to the Sawn Lake working interest by an amount of . Cash flow used in operations in the second quarter of 2025 was $0.5 million ( $0.00 per share) compared to $0.8 million ( $0.01 per share) in the second quarter of 2024.

( per share) compared to ( per share) in the second quarter of 2024. General and administrative expense in the second quarter of 2025 was $0.5 million compared to $0.6 million in the second quarter of 2024. General and administrative expense is comprised primarily of expenses related to personnel and premises, external services, and public company costs. Personnel and premises costs were $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $0.3 million in the second quarter of 2024. These costs include salaries and benefits for employees, and fees incurred for consultants. They also include rent and other office costs related to the Company's Calgary office. External service costs were $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2025 and 2024. These costs mainly related to professional fees for legal, audit, tax services, and information technology. Public company costs were $0.1 million in the second quarter of 2025 and 2024. These costs were incurred for maintaining the Company's status as a public company and mainly related to shareholder reporting and meeting, TSXV fees, transfer agent, insurance and directors' fees.

compared to in the second quarter of 2024. General and administrative expense is comprised primarily of expenses related to personnel and premises, external services, and public company costs. Operating expenses were $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2025 and 2024. These expenses were incurred to safeguard and maintain the assets of Andora Energy Corporation's ("Andora") suspended SAGD project facility and wellpair at Sawn Lake Central.

in the second quarter of 2025 and 2024. These expenses were incurred to safeguard and maintain the assets of Andora Energy Corporation's ("Andora") suspended SAGD project facility and wellpair at Sawn Lake Central. The natural gas pipeline tariff agreement which was entered into between Andora and a third party in 2018 with a commencement date of June 1, 2023 was recognized as an onerous contract under IAS 37 since the operation at Sawn Lake is shut-in. The Company has recognized a provision of $1.0 million representing the net cost of fulfilling the contract as at June 30, 2025 .

was recognized as an onerous contract under IAS 37 since the operation at Sawn Lake is shut-in. The Company has recognized a provision of representing the net cost of fulfilling the contract as at . The current portion of the decommissioning provision of $0.6 million as at June 30, 2025 was related to the legacy subsidiaries of POEH which had held interests in the East Jabung Production Sharing Contract in Indonesia and a well pertaining to Andora's interests in Sawn Lake, Alberta . CanAsia is withdrawing from activities in Indonesia and decommissioning related costs are expensed when incurred. The non-current portion of the decommissioning provision of $1.7 million as at June 30, 2025 pertained to Andora's interests in Sawn Lake, Alberta .

OUTLOOK

CanAsia is working with financial advisors in connection with a process (the "Process") to explore and evaluate alternatives to divest of all or a portion of its interests in the Sawn Lake, Alberta heavy oil project (the "Project") held through its wholly-owned subsidiary Andora. As part of the Process, CanAsia is undertaking a comprehensive review to identify and consider a broad range of alternatives to enhance shareholder value through the potential divestment of all or a portion of its interests in the Project, including, but not limited to, a sale of Andora or a strategic farmout or joint venture with respect to the Project. In response to initial market outreach, a number of parties have engaged in preliminary discussions with CanAsia and are currently evaluating a potential transaction with respect to the Project. However, CanAsia has not established a definitive timeline to complete the Process and there can be no assurance that the Process will result in any specific transaction.

Under the guidelines of the 2025 Onshore Thailand 25th Oil and Gas Licensing round, CanAsia submitted a bid on concession L8, as part of a consortium and with a non-operated 30% working interest. It is anticipated winning parties with be notified by the Government of Thailand by the first quarter of 2026.

Financial and Operating Results



Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, ($000s of Canadian dollars except where indicated) 2025 2024 2025 2024 FINANCIAL







Financial Statement Results







Net income (loss) (1) (900) 3,264 (1,630) 2,663

Per share  basic and diluted $ (0.01) $ 0.03 $ (0.01) $ 0.02 Cash flow used in operating activities (2) (536) (819) (1,711) (1,738)

Per share  basic and diluted $ (0.00) $ (0.01) $ (0.02) $ (0.02) Cash flow used in investing activities (2) (6) (1,334) (6) (1,334)

Per share  basic and diluted $ (0.00) $ (0.01) $ (0.00) $ (0.01) Cash flow from (used in) financing activities (2) (12) (10) (14) 1,130

Per share  basic and diluted $ (0.00) $ (0.00) $ (0.00) $ 0.01 Working capital 1,460 4,360 1,460 4,360 Shareholders' equity (3) 6,402 9,071 6,402 9,071 Weighted average shares outstanding (000s) 112,794 112,794 112,794 111,757 General and administrative expense (1) (546) (625) (1,030) (1,270) Operating expense (1) (151) (198) (315) (383) Natural gas pipeline tariff recovery (provision) (1) (14) 23 16 94 Stock-based compensation (1) (84) (305) (194) (314) Amortization (1) (15) (15) (29) (29) Decommissioning recovery (provision) (1) - 5 - 47 Loss on decommissioning provision settlement (1) - - (31) - Impairment recovery (1) - 4,242 - 4,242 Finance income (1) 10 115 20 249 Foreign exchange gain (loss) (1) (100) 22 (67) 27 Net income (loss) (1) (900) 3,264 (1,630) 2,663

(1) As set out in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in CanAsia's Consolidated Financial Statements. (2) As set out in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in CanAsia's Consolidated Financial Statements. (3) As set out in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity in CanAsia's Consolidated Financial Statements.

Cautionary Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by the terminology used, such as "will", "expect", "believe", "estimate", "should", "anticipate", "potential", "opportunity" or other similar wording. Forward-looking information in this press release may include, but is not limited to, the strength of the Company's financial position; the need for and availability of additional capital; statements with respect to the Process involving the potential monetization of Andora's Sawn Lake heavy oil project, including the outcome and timing thereof; and statements with respect to the Company's bid, as part of a consortium, for one concession with a non-operated 30% participating interest pursuant to the onshore Thailand 25th licensing round, including the outcome thereof, the expected timing of the government of Thailand's award of concessions.By its very nature, forward-looking information requires CanAsia and its management to make assumptions that may not materialize or that may not be accurate. In addition, forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond the control of CanAsia, which could cause actual events, results, expectations, achievements or performance to differ materially. Although CanAsia believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurances that those expectations will prove to be correct. In particular, there can be no assurance that the government of Thailand will accept CanAsia's bid on the terms proposed or at all or that the Process will result in any transaction. CanAsia undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws

See "Forward-Looking Statements" in CanAsia's management's discussion and analysis for the six months ended June 30, 2025 for more information on the assumptions on which the Company has relied and the risks and uncertainties and other factors that could impact the forward-looking information in this press release. CanAsia undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE CanAsia Energy Corp.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: CanAsia Energy Corp.: Jeff Chisholm, President and CEO (located in Bangkok, Thailand), Email: [email protected] - or - Marcel Nunes, Vice President Finance and CFO, Email: [email protected], Telephone: (403) 294-1770
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 13, 2025 /CNW/ - Eastern Platinum Limited (TSX: ELR) (JSE: EPS) ("Eastplats" or the "Company") is pleased to report that it has filed its condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and the corresponding management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"). Below is a summary of the Company's financial results for the second quarter of 2025 ("Q2 2025") and for the six months ended June 30, 2024 ("YTD 2025") in comparison to the same respective period in in 2024 ("Q2 2024" and "YTD 2024") (all amounts in USD unless specified):

Revenue for Q2 2025 decreased to $10.7 million (Q2 2024 - $18.8 million ), representing a $8.1 million or 43.1% decrease. Revenue for YTD 2025 decreased to $25.5 million (YTD 2024 - $34.5 million ), representing a $9.0 million or 26.1% decrease.





(Q2 2024 - ), representing a or 43.1% decrease. Revenue for YTD 2025 decreased to (YTD 2024 - ), representing a or 26.1% decrease. Mine operating income decreased by $4.0 million (or -90.9%) to $0.4 million in Q2 2025 (Q2 2024 - $4.4 million ) as gross margin declined to 3.4% in Q2 2025 from 23.6% in Q2 2024. Mine operating income in YTD 2025 decreased by $14.0 million (or -144.3%) to mine operating loss of $4.3 million (YTD 2024 - $9.7 million ), resulting from a reduced gross margin of -16.9% in YTD 2025 from 28.2% in YTD 2024.





(or -90.9%) to in Q2 2025 (Q2 2024 - ) as gross margin declined to 3.4% in Q2 2025 from 23.6% in Q2 2024. Mine operating income in YTD 2025 decreased by (or -144.3%) to mine operating loss of (YTD 2024 - ), resulting from a reduced gross margin of -16.9% in YTD 2025 from 28.2% in YTD 2024. Operating loss was $3.0 million in Q2 2025 compared to an operating income of $1.6 million in Q2 2024. Operating loss was $11.1 million in YTD 2025 compared to an operating income of $1.6 million in YTD 2024.





in Q2 2025 compared to an operating income of in Q2 2024. Operating loss was in YTD 2025 compared to an operating income of in YTD 2024. Net loss attributable to equity shareholders was $1.8 million ( $0.01 loss per share) in Q2 2025 versus net income attributable to equity shareholders of $3.5 million ( $0.02 earnings per share) in Q2 2024. The decrease in Q2 2025 net income was largely attributable to the significantly decreased revenue derived in the period.





( loss per share) in Q2 2025 versus net income attributable to equity shareholders of ( earnings per share) in Q2 2024. The decrease in Q2 2025 net income was largely attributable to the significantly decreased revenue derived in the period. Net loss attributable to equity shareholders was $8.7 million ( $0.04 loss per share) in YTD 2025 compared to net income attributable to equity shareholders of $2.6 million ( $0.01 earnings per share) in YTD 2024. The decrease of YTD 2025 net income was mainly attributable to the same reasons as described above for the quarter.





( loss per share) in YTD 2025 compared to net income attributable to equity shareholders of ( earnings per share) in YTD 2024. The decrease of YTD 2025 net income was mainly attributable to the same reasons as described above for the quarter. The Company had a working capital deficit (current assets less current liabilities) of $51.1 million as at June 30, 2025 ( December 31, 2024  working capital deficit of $38.7 million ) and short-term cash resources of $2.4 million (consisting of cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments) ( December 31, 2024  $3.1 million ).

Investec Commodity Finance Facility Amendment

The Company is pleased to announce an amendment to the previously announced finance facility agreement with Investec Bank Limited ("Investec") on November 10, 2022, between Investec and Barplats Mine (Pty) Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastplats. The renewable 12-month revolving commodity finance facility (the "Facility") is secured by PGM production delivered from the Zandfontein underground section to Impala Platinum Limited. The Facility will be used for working capital purposes and support the full restart of the Zandfontein underground section of its flagship Crocodile River Mine ("CRM"), located near Brits, South Africa. The maximum size of the credit facility was increased to R240 million ($13.5 million) from R110 million ($6.2 million). There were no other changes to the Facility.

Wanjin Yang, Chief Executive Officer and President of Eastplats commented, "We thank Investec for its continued support and commitment to Eastplats. The increased credit limit will enable us to ramp up our underground production tonnages at the Crocodile River Mine. We are all working hard to improve PGM and chrome production."

Operations

The Company derived revenue from the processing of PGM and chrome concentrates at the CRM. Eastplats' majority of revenue (approximately 28% and 53% for Q2 2025 and YTD 2025, respectively) is from chrome concentrate sales to third parties. As the Company ramps up production at the CRM, the Company expects to derive the majority of its revenue from PGM processing.

Summary of chrome production from underground operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024:



Q2 2025 YTD 2025 Total Run-of-Mine UG2 Feed (Tons) 75,340 120,287 Average grade Cr concentrate 40.7 % 40.7 % Tons of Cr concentrate (wet) 19,768 29,529

Summary of chrome production from the retreatment project at the CRM for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024:



Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Total Tailings Feed (Tons) - 281,867 109,919 667,166 Average grade Cr concentrate - 38.4 % 36.5 % 38.5 % Tons of Cr concentrate (wet) - 72,305 14,690 152,187

Summary of PGM production for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024:



Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Average 6E grade (grams per ton)* 151 41 150 45 Tons of PGM concentrate 1,401 808 2,072 1,753 PGM ounces produced (6E)* 6,781 1,066 9,961 2,554

*PGM 6E ounces are estimates until final exchanges and umpire results have been concluded, which can take up to three months

The Company has filed the following documents, under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca:

Condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 ; and





; and Management's discussion and analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 .

The condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 are available for download at https://www.eastplats.com/investors/quarterly-reports/F2025/ and are also available on the JSE's website at:

https://senspdf.jse.co.za/documents/2025/JSE/ISSE/EPS/Q225.pdf.

The Company has a primary listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and a secondary listing on the JSE Limited.

About Eastern Platinum Limited

Eastplats owns directly and indirectly a number of PGM and chrome assets in the Republic of South Africa. All of the Company's properties are situated on the western limb (Crocodile River Mine) and eastern limb (Kennedy's Vale, Spitzkop, Mareesburg) of the Bushveld Complex, the geological environment that hosts approximately 80% of the world's PGM-bearing ore.

Operations at the Crocodile River Mine currently include mining and processing ore from the Zandfontein underground section to both produce PGM and chrome concentrates, respectively.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, forecasts, estimates, expectations and objectives for future operations that are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "will," "plan," "intends," "may," "could," "expects," "anticipates" and similar expressions. Further disclosure of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and other forward-looking statements are discussed in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form available under the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca.

In particular, this press release contains, without limitation, forward-looking statements pertaining to: increasing underground production feed to the PGM and chrome circuits and improvement of PGM and chrome production results and the majority of the Company's revenues being derived from PGM processing. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, unanticipated problems that may arise in the Company's production processes, commodity prices, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, need for additional funding and availability of such additional funding on acceptable terms, economic conditions, currency fluctuations, competition and regulations, legal proceedings and risks related to operations in foreign countries.

All forward-looking statements in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, the "Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information" section contained in the Company's most recent Management's Discussion and Analysis available under the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date they are given and, except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation, and does not undertake, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

SOURCE Eastern Platinum Ltd.

For further information, please contact: EASTERN PLATINUM LIMITED, Wylie Hui, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary, [email protected] (email), (604) 568-8200 (phone)
HOUSTON, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Texas' state Senate on Tuesday passed a Republican-desired congressional redistricting map, as the state House has been in a quorum break since Aug. 4 after dozens of Democratic state lawmakers left for other states in protest.

Nine Democrats walked out of the state Senate on Tuesday while two stayed in the room. The controversial bill, which may give Republicans five more congressional seats in the 2026 midterm elections, was easily passed by a 19-2 vote in the upper chamber.

"We walked out because this session should be about flood relief, not politics. Texans deserve leaders who put people first," said the Senate Democrats who left the session.

Also on Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said he will call for another special session this week for the state House redistricting voting.

"There will be no reprieve for the derelict Democrats who fled the state and abandoned their duty to the people who elected them. I will continue to call special session after special session until we get this Texas first agenda passed," he said.

Local media outlet ABC13 confirmed on Tuesday night that state House Democrats will return to the state, citing flooding relief as their priority. However, so far it is not clear when they will return.

The current congressional map in Texas was drawn in 2021, with Republicans having 25 seats out of Texas's 38. Pushed directly by U.S. President Donald Trump, Texas Republicans proposed new congressional lines in late July to divide up existing districts in Austin, Houston and Dallas in a bid to garner five more seats.

Earlier this month, Trump voiced his full support for the Texas GOP's redistricting plan, claiming that Republicans are "entitled to five more seats" in the 2026 midterms in Texas, the largest red state in the country.

Meanwhile, Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin vowed that Democrats will "fight fire with fire," accusing Texas Republicans of trying to "cheat" in elections. 
" " To be clear, we're just talking about "Dragon Ball Z" filler here, not the orginal "Dragon Ball" series or any of the subsequent ones. Shutterstock AI / Shutterstock

The "Dragon Ball Z" anime series is packed with high-stakes battles, emotional transformations, and unforgettable characters.

But like many long-running series, it also includes a fair amount of filler episodes. This DBZ filler list outlines the arcs and episodes that stray from the manga, helping you decide what to watch or skip.

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While some filler episodes offer fun side stories or expand on characters, others slow down the pacing of major arcs like the Frieza Saga, Cell Games, and Majin Buu Arc.
Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE:AGI) is one of the best cheap growth stocks to buy according to analysts. On August 8, 2025, Alamos Gold filed a base shelf prospectus enabling the company to issue up to US $500 million in securities, including common shares, debt instruments, warrants, and subscription receipts, over the next 25 months.

The filing specifically states that there are no current plans to issue securities, positioning the move purely as a precaution to maintain financial flexibility, and it replaces a previous prospectus that expired in June 2025.

Alamos Gold Files $500 Million Shelf Prospectus to Preserve Financial Flexibility

Alamos Gold Inc. is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer. Its operations span the Island Gold District and YoungDavidson mine in Ontario, as well as the Mulatos District in Mexico. The company emphasizes low-cost, long-life assets, with a development pipeline that includes the Phase 3+ expansion at Island Gold and the Lynn Lake project in Manitoba.

While we acknowledge the potential of AGI 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.
PARIS  Audemars Piguet is bolstering its manufacturing muscle with the purchase of a majority stake in Swiss precision manufacturer Inhotec, the watchmaker said Wednesday.

Lucas Raggi, Audemars Piguets chief industrial officer, characterized the move as an investmentbuilt on shared values that is about consolidating strategic key skills and supporting the continuity of an expertise that is essential to the future of haute horlogerie, not only for Audemars Piguet, but for the entire industry.

More from WWD

Founded in 2011 and based in the Swiss city of Le Locle, a major watchmaking hub, the company is specialized in precision manufacturing of watch components for high-end timepieces as well as watch blanks.

This partnership marks an important milestone in Inhotecs history, Inhotec founder and chief executive officer Alexandre Eme said. Audemars Piguets investment is a strong vote of confidence in our team, our expertise and our long-term potential. By joining forces, we are creating the conditions for Inhotec to continue innovating and serving the entire watchmaking industry.

Under the deal, whose financial terms were not disclosed, the manufacturer will continue to operate as an autonomous company will fully responsibility over its managerial decisions, industrial activities and commercial relationships. It will continue to work with existing and future clients, including other watch brands.

Eme will retain a significant minority stake in the company and continue to serve as CEO and chairman of the board.

Audemars Piguet said it would now provide strategic and financial support to the company.

News of this deal, which Audemars Piguet characterized as a way to to preserve and strengthen the Swiss watchmaking industrial ecosystem and its own industrial independence, comes as the Swiss watchmaking industry gets ready for what promises to be an extremely challenging period.

Watchmakers are bracing for the upcoming impact of a nunfavorable conjunction of slowing consumption, including in luxury, as well as the proposed 39 percent tariff on Swiss imports to the U.S. that came into effect on Aug. 7.

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Big Swerve  all 6-foot-3, 315 pounds of him  sidesteps around the quints, his name for the five massive Oklahoma Joe grills that surround his gargantuan 500-gallon smoker, nicknamed Big Bottom Betty, inside a modified shipping container.

Not long ago, Big Swerve (real name Stephen Clark) weighed 400 pounds, but lost all that weight the easy way  working in 110-degree temperatures inside that tented shipping container, which his wife, Shajuan, bought online.
Danielle Spencer, who rose to fame as a child actor, has died.

Spencer, a Trenton native, played the hilarious young Dee Thomas in the ABC comedy series Whats Happening!!

The actor, who grew up in the Bronx, later became a veterinarian.

Her younger brother, jazz trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, announced on Instagram that she died of cancer.

Pelt watched Spencer, 60, take her last breath.

August 11, 2025 will forever be a reminder of the day that I lost a big part of myself, he said. After many years, my big sister, Dr. Danielle Louise Spencer lost her battle with cancer. Many of you knew her as Dee, but she was more than a child actress. She was a friend, an auntie to my three children who adored her, she was a daughter- and in many ways, my mothers best friend, she was a veterinarian, she was someone who always remained positive even during her darkest days fighting this disease.

ABC reports that Spencer died of gastric cancer and cardiac arrest.

The TV star, who died in Richmond, Virginia, had a double mastectomy and other surgeries after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, Variety reports.

She suffered for a very long time but did it with a great deal of courage, Spencers co-star Haywood Nelson (Dwayne Clemens Nelson in the show) told The Hollywood Reporter.

Whats Happening!! debuted in 1976 and aired for three seasons on ABC, ending in 1979.

Spencer was 11 years old when she was cast as Deadra Dee Thomas in the sitcom.

The character, sister of Roger Raj Thomas (Ernest Thomas) and daughter of Mabel Mama Thomas (Mabel King), was known for her frank, deadpan delivery.

Eric Monte, co-creator of Good Times, created Whats Happening!!

He based the show, set in Los Angeles Watts neighborhood, on the 1975 movie Cooley High, which he also wrote.

Spencer was in a serious car accident as a child during the filming of the show.

The crash, on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, killed her stepfather, actor Tim Pelt, and left her in a coma for weeks. After the accident, she needed six months of physical therapy.

Physical effects of the crash lingered decades later. Spencer was diagnosed with spinal stenosis in 2004 and underwent surgery that caused paralysis. She was treated through rehabilitation.

Following the cancellation of Whats Happening!! in 1979, Spencer moved to Ivory Coast with her mother, writer and teacher Cheryl Pelt.

When Spencer returned to the United States, she studied marine biology and veterinary medicine.

She reprised the role of Dee in the series revival Whats Happening Now!! in the 1980s (see episode below) and occasionally continued to act.

Spencer played a veterinarian in James L. Brooks Oscar-winning movie As Good As it Gets (1997), starring Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt and Greg Kinnear.

She also had a regular pet care segment on CBS channel WTVR in Richmond.

The Whats Happening!! star is survived by her brother, Jeremy Pelt, and her mother, Cheryl Pelt.

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Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup on Twitter/X, @amykup.bsky.social on Bluesky and @kupamy on Instagram and Threads.
Lenny's Colonial Ranch Market in Point Pleasant, which will soon expand to Manasquan. Google Maps

A well-known New Jersey deli is preparing to open a new location at the Jersey Shore.

Lennys Colonial Ranch Market, a longstanding Point Pleasant deli and market, is coming to Manasquan this fall.

The plan was announced in a YouTube video by Dana and Megan Walker of the Jersey Shore-based real estate agency the Paradise Team.

Lennys is expected to open on Manasquans Main Street in October although an official date had yet to be announced.

The Ocean County establishment has been around since 1971 when current owners grandfather, former Point Borough mayor Lenny Arms, opened in the same building along Bridge Avenue

Lenny then sold the business to his son Darren Arms, who died in 2013, before third-generation owners Billy, Bryan and Brandon Arms took over.

The deli sells local produce, cold cuts and meats prepared by an in-house butcher, an array of cheeses, desserts and more. The deli offers catering as well.

This will be the third Lennys outpost. There is another Lennys location in Toms River.

Request for comment from Lennys on Wednesday was not returned.

More food coverage:

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Christopher Burch can be reached at cburch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SwishBurch. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/.
A Jersey City pastor who resigned in June has been charged with sexually assaulting two children while he was working as a youth pastor at an embattled Colorado church over two decades ago.

Robert Anthony Tony Langston, 60, who served as lead pastor at Tapestry Church in Jersey City, is accused of assaulting two members of Landmark Tabernacle in Denver. At least one incident occurred in 1998, and both victims were under the age of 15.

Langston, of Jersey City, was arrested in Denver on July 23 and charged with sexual assault on a child as part of a pattern of abuse by one in a position of trust and criminal attempt to commit sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, court records show.

Langston is accused of molesting a 14-year-old member of Landmark TabernacleDenver as part of a pattern of abuse that started in Denver and continued after he left the church. The victim, who had an abusive situation at home, was groomed by Langston, according to Carolyn Hoyt, a close friend of the victim and a former member of Landmark TabernacleDenver. The victim accompanied Langston and his wife as they evangelized across the U.S. and eventually settled in Jersey City, Hoyt said.

The victim, whose name was redacted in court documents, told investigators he was initially molested in Langstons home after the youth pastor took a liking to him and started acting as his mentor, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

The victim continued to be groped and assaulted by the pastor after following him to New Jersey, the affidavit states. There, Langston founded Tapestry Church with his wife 22 years ago.

The Hudson County Prosecutors Office did not return a request from NJ Advance Media for comment about whether Langston has ever been investigated by the prosecutors office.

Hoyt told NJ Advance Media the victim was very scared to report the abuse because the church is very anti-homosexuality.

The second victim, whose name was also redacted in court documents, told investigators that Langston touched him inappropriately during a conversation in the pastors office at Landmark TabernacleDenver, according to the affidavit. Langston allegedly appeared to prefer boys in the church who had absent fathers or were raised by their grandparents, the affidavit states.

Landmark TabernacleDenver did not return a request from NJ Advance Media for comment.

Langston announced on June 29  about a month before he was charged in Denver  his plans to resign from his role at Tapestry Church in Jersey City and retire from ministry.

In his address, which was posted on Facebook by SpiritualAbuse.org, Langston said he planned to continue to stay involved in the Jersey City church, which would become a division of Freedom Church.

However, Freedom Church, which declined to comment on the charges against Langston, said it is a new ministry that does not involve Langston.

My Freedom Church, Inc. understands that the allegations against Robert Langston, former pastor of Tapestry Church, concern his association with a church in Colorado, the church said in a statement to NJ Advance Media. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for My Freedom Church, Inc. to comment or speculate on any legal matters occurring in another state, involving another church, and involving an individual not affiliated with My Freedom Church, Inc.

According to the affidavit, a former pastor at Landmark TabernacleDenver told investigators that he knew about the abuse in 1998 but didnt report it.

One of the victims told investigators that the former pastor allegedly gave Langston time to gracefully leave the church but told him that he could no longer serve as a youth pastor there, it was stated in the affidavit.

Hoyt said the families of the victims were told at the time not to contact the police and that the church would handle it internally. They wanted to help Tony through the process [of redemption], Hoyt said.

In 2005, Langston was charged by the 9th District Court in Montgomery County, Texas with second-degree indecency with a child sexual contact. However, the charge was later dismissed, online court records show.

Langstons preliminary hearing in Denver was scheduled for Aug. 11, according to court documents. A mandatory protection order states he must stay at least 100 yards away from the victims and anyone under the age of 18.

Other members of Landmark Tabernacle-Denver have faced similar charges to Langston. Jesse Klockenbrink was convicted on charges of attempted sexual assault and child abuse, state records show. He is now a registered sex offender in Colorado.

The attorney representing Langston could not be reached for comment.

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Rebecca Heath may be reached at RHeath@njadvancemedia.com.
The Jonas Brothers have one last show in New Jersey, and you dont want to miss out.

After performing an iconic show at MetLife Stadium, Nick, Kevin and Joe Jonas will perform at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden on Aug. 14.

Jonas Brothers tour 2025 The cheapest Jonas Brothers tickets are available on Vivid Seats. Buy Now

Plus, fans will be excited to know that tickets to this show are officially under $45, and after how much of a hit their East Rutherford show was, we wouldnt be surprised if these tickets flew off the market.

So, heres where to get the cheapest tickets to the Jonas Brothers upcoming New Jersey concert.

How to get tickets to see the Jonas Brothers this week

Currently, the cheapest ticket we could find for the Jonas Brothers Aug. 14, concert in Camden, before any fees, is $41 on Vivid Seats.

If you happen to miss out on both of these cheapest tickets, then you can find more on sites, like StubHub, Vivid Seats, SeatGeek, TicketNetwork and Viagogo.

Plus, if you buy your tickets through Vivid Seats as a first-time customer, then you can receive $20 on ticket orders over $200 just by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

You can find all of the Jonas Brothers upcoming stadium tour dates here.

The Jonas Brothers 2025: Dates, schedule & more

The Jonas Brothers began their JONAS20: Living The Dream tour on Aug. 10 in East Rutherford and will wrap up on Nov. 14 in Uncasville, Conn.

Were beyond excited to hit the road and celebrate 20 years of music, said the Jonas Brothers in a statement. Our fans have been with us through every chapter, and this tour is our way of honoring them, the memories weve made, and the ones well create together. We cant wait to make this our biggest, most unforgettable tour yet.

Marshmello, The All-American Rejects and Boys Like Girls will join on select tour dates.

The Jonas Brothers promise fans a full, career-spanning journey once they hit the live stage. This includes Nick Jonas & the Administration, Nick Jonas solo music, Joe Jonas solo work and DNCE.

Also, diehard fans can expect to see several special surprise guests after the brothers invited Switchfoot, Demi Lovato, Jesse McCartney and Dean Lewis during their opening show at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, Aug. 10.

Upcoming 2025 tours heading on stadium tours

The Jonas Brothers are not the only ones performing at stadiums this year.

Here are a few more artists you dont want to miss out on: Oasis, My Chemical Romance, Chris Brown and System of a Down.

Hi, Im Nicole, NJ.coms expert live events and deals writer! Ive made it my mission to find the absolute cheapest tickets for the biggest artists, like Taylor Swift, Billy Joel, Sabrina Carpenter, & more. If you missed the general sale or presale for your favorite artist, you dont have to panic. Ive already done the hard work of sifting through tickets and finding you the best price.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
The court upheld a N.J. man's fifth DWI offense, ruling that psychiatric defenses are not allowed in such cases. Canva for NJ.com

A New Jersey appeals court ruled that psychiatric defenses cannot be used to fight driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges, setting a new legal precedent.

A three-judge Appellate Division panel ruled that DWI is a strict liability offense, meaning that the drivers mental state is legally irrelevant.

The only question for the court to consider is whether the person was operating a vehicle while impaired, the court ruled.

The ruling also rejected Victor Baverovs argument that he was entitled to a jury trial.

Under both state and federal law, even repeat DWI offenses carrying up to 180 days in jail are considered petty and do not trigger the constitutional right to a jury, according to the ruling.

Baverov, 42, was arrested in November 2021 after crashing his car into a tree on a rural road in Upper Freehold.

A New Jersey state trooper who responded to the scene reported that Baverov had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and smelled strongly of alcohol.

Baverov admitted to drinking five or six beers and failed multiple field sobriety tests. He was charged with DWI, reckless driving and failure to maintain a lane.

He was convicted in municipal court in January 2023 of DWI  his fifth offense  and sentenced to 180 days in jail, an eight-year drivers license suspension, four years of ignition interlock, and other penalties.

On appeal, Baverov argued that his trial attorney failed him by refusing to present a psychiatric defense based on persecutory paranoia and memory loss unrelated to alcohol use.

However, the Appellate Division sided with his attorney, who had correctly cited case law barring mental health defenses in DWI cases.

The court emphasized that under New Jersey law, DWI is a strict liability offense.

This means prosecutors only need to prove the person was driving while impaired, not that they intended to break the law or were aware of their actions.

The only relevant factor is whether the person was driving while impaired.

Allowing psychiatric defenses, the judges said, would open the door to fabricated claims and unnecessarily complex trials.

The court also found that Baverovs constitutional rights were not violated by being tried without a jury.

Although Baverov was sentenced to jail, the term did not exceed six months  the legal threshold under both the U.S. and New Jersey constitutions for when a defendant is entitled to a jury trial, the court ruled.

Because his sentence fell within the range considered a petty offense, the court ruled that he was not constitutionally entitled to be tried by a jury.

The appellate court affirmed the conviction and sentence.

John Menzel, Baverovs attorney, said he plans to appeal the question of whether a defense attorney has an ethical obligation to present certain defenses in criminal cases.

Attorneys need to understand that they are there to defend their clients, not order them to do something, Menzel said. We make recommendations and explain why, but the client is the boss.

The state was represented by the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office, which declined to comment on the ruling.

Colleen Murphy may be reached at cmurphy@njadvancemedia.com.
With a significant presence in Bill Ackmans stock portfolio, Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) secures a spot on our list of the Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks.

BofA Maintains Buy Rating on Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER) with $115 PT

A close up view of a hand holding a smartphone, using a ride sharing app.

On August 4, 2025, BofA Securities kept a Buy rating on Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) with a $115 price target. This comes ahead of the companys Q2 earnings, scheduled for release on August 6. BofA raised its estimates amid strong spending data and improving industry trends. The analyst increased its bookings, revenue, and EBITDA forecasts to $47.10 billion, $12.56 billion, and $2.12 billion, respectively, all above consensus estimates.

This follows strong momentum for Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER), as it has gained 47% YTD. A strong financial performance, along with strategic partnerships with Waymo and Lucid, has remained a key growth driver. Wall Street expects UBER to report earnings of $0.63 per share and a 16.5% revenue jump to $12.5 billion. Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) boasts a strong historical track record of beating estimates.

Operating across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific, Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) develops proprietary technology applications within Mobility, Delivery, and Freight segments. Bill Ackman has bought 30.3 million shares of Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER) as of Q1 2025.

While we acknowledge the potential of UBER 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: 12 Cheap Value Stocks to Buy Now According to Warren Buffett and 7 Best Potash Stocks to Buy According to Analysts.

Disclosure: None.
The body of a 47-year-old New Jersey man who went missing in Iowa last week has been recovered from the Missouri River, authorities said.

Akshay Arora, of Hillsborough, was identified by police in Sioux City, Iowa on Tuesday, the department said in a statement.

Aroras work colleagues had reported him missing at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 6 after he didnt show up for a flight. He had last been heard from at 5 a.m.

At about 9 p.m. that day, a submerged vehicle with no one inside was pulled from the river, prompting additional searches along the water, officials said. The area was searched because the rental cars GPS pinged near the river, KTIV.com reported.

The search continued during daylight hours until 5:05 p.m. on Friday, when a mans body was pulled from from the river near the boat ramp at 1280 Larsen Park Road.

The body was later identified as Arora, authorities said.

Police said there was no indication of foul play, though the investigation is ongoing.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.

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MAGA world is predicting prison time for this top Democrat.

While speaking at the Kennedy Center, Trump on Wednesday continued his attacks against Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, claiming that both had a hand in creating what he called the Russia Russia Russia Hoax.

In recent weeks, Trump and other administration officials have downplayed U.S. intelligence about Russias interference in the 2016 presidential election, with Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard releasing unclassified documents in July that she alleges show overwhelming evidence that former President Barack Obama and his national security officials had laid the groundwork for the TrumpRussia collusion probe.

Some in the Trump administration have alleged that Obamas team had manufactured intelligence and committed treason to create a narrative that Russia was attempting to influence the election to benefit Trump. Meanwhile, a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, which was then led by now Secretary of State Marco Rubio, found irrefutable evidence of Russian meddling. Obamas office, in a rare rebuke, called Trumps claims that the former president tried to rig the election as a weak attempt at a distraction.

Schiff had fired back at Trump following his remarks, saying that he is playing his greatest hits.

Never gets old, Schiff wrote on X.

He hates the fact that I stand up to him, and point out his continued failings: Out-of-control costs, historic corruption, and still no sign of the Epstein files, he continued.

Trump is playing his greatest hits. Going after me and Hillary Clinton. Never gets old.



He hates the fact that I stand up to him, and point out his continued failings:



Out-of-control costs, historic corruption, and still no sign of the Epstein files. https://t.co/J2dRHAUzkG  Adam Schiff (@AdamSchiff) August 13, 2025

Several outlets reported late Monday that a whistleblower, who allegedly had worked on the House Intelligence Committee for over a decade, told the FBI in 2017 that Schiff, the groups leading Democrat, had allowed the leaking of classified information about Trump to ultimately indict him during the Russia probe. According to Fox News, the report said the whistleblower, who worked under Democrats, stated this would be illegal and, upon hearing his concerns, unnamed members of the meeting reassured that they would not be caught leaking classified information.

MAGA faithful had immediately rejoiced at Schiffs response  with many claiming that he will eventually be imprisoned.

LOL!!! Schiff is PANICKING!!! Gunther Eagleman, a social media influencer, wrote in response to Schiff.

Catturd, an internet personality, shared a similar belief: This is what panic looks like.

Youre going to prison, one user said, attaching a fake video of Schiff in an orange jumpsuit. Another user posted a meme of FBI Director Kash Patel with the caption, Show time.

You tried to frame our president. Dont get too comfortable, someone else added.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt called the recent whistleblower allegations a bombshell during her press briefing on Tuesday, saying that Hopefully more people in this room will cover it as such. She read a quote from Patel, in which he said that certain officials used their positions to selectively leak classified information to shape political narratives.

Trump has also took aim at his longtime political foe on social media last month over mortgage fraud allegations. Attorney General Pam Bondi has since appointed a special attorney to lead a probe, NBC News reported last week. Schiff has denied wrongdoing, and in a video statement from July, said that this is the kind of stuff you see tinpot dictators do.

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) mocked President Donald Trump with an all-caps social media message in a Truth Social-styled tone as he announced his states response to a Republican-led redistricting plan in Texas.

Newsom, who used one of the presidents least favorite nicknames and mimicked his communication style, began his post by referring to the president as "DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM," a moniker that has circulated among Wall Street investors, meaning Trump Always Chickens Out  a reference to his seesawing pattern on tariff deadlines. He then went on to say that that California will begin to draw MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, after he issued a series of warnings to Trump this week.

The announcement comes as Trump has backed a plan in the Lone Star State, where GOP lawmakers have proposed a new state congressional map designed to secure at least five more safe seats ahead of the 2026 midterms. The move, widely seen as an effort to preserve Republican control of the House, has been met with pushback from Texas Democrats and Democratic governors, including Newsom, who had floated his own plan to counter it.

...THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!), Newsoms press office wrote on X on Tuesday.

BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GN," the account continued.

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!). BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

On his Truth Social platform, the president typically uses a similar format of capital letters and punctuation. Newsom also sarcastically copied Trump in adding a sign off and thanking his audience for their attention to this matter.

Newsom had sent a letter to Trump on Monday urging him to halt the map-drawing battle that has spread across red and blue states. He warned that Republicans were playing with fire by pushing GOP-favorable maps, and said that California will stand down if other states followed suit.

This attempt to rig congressional maps to hold onto power before a single vote is cast in the 2026 election is an affront to American democracy, Newsom wrote in the letter.

On Tuesday, Newsoms office account had issued what it called its FINAL WARNING to Trump, adding STOP CHEATING OR CALIFORNIA WILL REDRAW THE MAPS.

AND GUESS WHO WILL ANNOUNCE IT THIS WEEK? GAVIN NEWSOM (MANY SAY THE MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR) AND A VERY POWERFUL TEAM. DONT MAKE US DO IT!!! it added.

Last week, Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) announced that they would move forward with plans to hold a special election in November to allow voters to approve a ballot measure on a redistricting proposal. The plan would allow Newsom to temporarily bypass the states independent redistricting commission, which is made up of five Democrats, five Republicans and four independents. If approved, the map would remain in effect until the 2030 census.

Meanwhile, more than 50 Texas Democrats fled their state earlier this month in an attempt to block Republicans from redrawing the map. Texas Republicans hinted that they are expected to end the Legislatures current special session on Friday and immediately call a new one.

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Vice President JD Vance said his family was "rebuffed" by former Vice President Kamala Harris. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon and Godofredo A. Vasquez)

Vice President JD Vance revealed he had experienced a bit of a controversy with his predecessor before President Donald Trumps inauguration.

While speaking on The Katie Miller Podcast, Vance said that his family was rebuffed by former Vice President Kamala Harris over a courtesy visit. He called it typically customary for an outgoing vice president to show the incoming one the offices official residence, which is located on the grounds of the United States Naval Observatory. The white nineteenth century home, found on a 73-acre plot, has housed every vice president since Walter Mondale in the 1970s.

Vance said he had proposed to bring his three children to see their new home, who were all under the age of eight at the time, but his request was rejected.

They had never seen this house, and Usha [Vance] really wanted show them, so what we actually proposed is, recognizing the weirdness of the politics, can Usha take the kids over and just show them where theyre going to be living for the next four years? Vance said in an episode released Monday.

Saying they were rebuffed, Vance noted that he instead showed his kids old diagrams and photographs, and noted that one of his friends in Ohio owned a book about the vice presidents residence.

Thats as close as they ever got to it, but its a really beautiful house, Vance said.

.@VP says after the election, since it's usually "customary for the outgoing VP to show the incoming VP's family the house," he proposed bringing their kids over so they could see their home for the next four years  but Kamala "rebuffed" that request. pic.twitter.com/YC58At8Iqf  Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 11, 2025

In recent years, some vice presidents have hosted their successor and their families before they take office  but there is no formal tradition or requirement.

Former Vice President Dick Cheney and his wife had welcomed then Vice President-elect Joe Biden in 2009. The Bidens also introduced incoming Vice President Mike Pence to the residence in 2016.

However, there was no official meeting between Pence and Harris, though they did speak on the phone. CBS News previously reported that people close to Harris said she was never given the opportunity to visit the home before she was sworn in. She took office during the COVID pandemic and amid the Capitol riot in January 2021.

As Vances comments went viral on social media, supporters and critics of Harris pounced.

"Thats petty if true," one user said on X.

Another user wrote: Just wait until he moves into the White House in 2029!

All this guy does is b---- and moan. Thats all any of them do. Weve ceded the entire country and any progress to grievances from prissy whiners, a journalist added.

A different user described the decision as very telling.

Thank goodness we literally dodged that bullet, they continued.

Vance added that Harris had left a nice note in his West Wing office, calling it boilerplate but polite.

It actually feels like a real home now, he said.

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Wednesday will be hot and humid in New Jersey with a chance of late-day storms. National Weather Service

UPDATE: Flood watch issued for 7 counties with slow-moving thunderstorms in forecast

A hot, humid Wednesday in New Jersey might culminate in late-day rain and spotty thunderstorms that could include flooding and damaging winds, forecasters say.

Any storms that form late this afternoon and evening will be slow-moving but mostly wind down before midnight, the National Weather Service said in its morning forecast discussion.

There is a marginal risk (1 on a 5-point scale) of severe weather and marginal risk (1 on a 4-point scale) of excessive rainfall, according to the weather service.

Not all parts of the state will see rain, with little to no chance of precipitation in areas along and close to the Jersey Shore.

Forecasters are calling for sunny skies and highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. The humidity will make it feel like temperatures are in the low to mid-90s.

Thunderstorms are possible on Wednesday in New Jersey, especially in northwestern parts of the state, according to AccuWeather.com. AccuWeather.com

Overnight lows will fall into the upper 60s to low 70s.

Thursday is likely to be cloudy with periods of heavy rain. Highs will be in the mid 80s to about 90. The chance of rain diminishes at night.

The weekend should be sunny, dry and hot with highs in the upper 80s on Friday and Saturday before climbing into the low 90s on Sunday. Overnight lows are expected to be mainly in the 60s.

Normal mid-August temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s.

Meanwhile, forecasters continue to monitor Tropical Storm Erin, which continues to move west in the eastern Atlantic Ocean.

Its most likely path has it curving north next week and remaining several hundred miles off the east coast of the U.S., according to AccuWeather.com.

As of 5 a.m, Wednesday, Erin was 1,400 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands and expected to strengthen into a major hurricane by Sunday.

Erin could move close enough to the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend to produce some impacts on those islands, the National Hurricane Center said Wednesday morning. However, the magnitude of those impacts is still not known, and interests there should continue to monitor the progress of this storm.

Current weather radar

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.

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By Marcela Ayres

BRASILIA (Reuters) -Brazil's government unveiled on Wednesday a long-awaited aid package for companies hurt by steep U.S. tariffs, centered on credit lines for exporters and government purchases of products that face greater hurdles in finding alternative markets.

U.S. President Donald Trump hiked duties on several goods from Brazil to 50% from 10% earlier this month. Although some sectors were exempted from the steeper levies, the move is still set to hurt industries such as coffee, beef, seafood, textiles, footwear and fruit.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had already signaled his administration would not immediately retaliate against the tariff hike, instead prioritizing support for the most affected sectors.

"We will insist on negotiating ... but our sovereignty is untouchable," Lula told an event in Brasilia, saying he was open to talks on topics such as ethanol trade.

"We are not announcing reciprocity measures. We don't want, at first, to do anything that could justify worsening our relations," the leftist leader added.

The centerpiece of the aid plan is a 30 billion-real ($5.55 billion) credit line via the existing Export Guarantee Fund (FGE), which is managed by state development bank BNDES, according to a statement.

The government will also make additional contributions totaling 4.5 billion reais to strengthen some funds supporting aid for smaller companies, it added.

The measures are part of an executive order signed by Lula, which takes effect immediately but must be approved by Congress within four months to remain in force.

MAJOR HIT

Brazil was among the nations hardest hit by Trump's tariffs.

Washington exempted key goods such as aircraft, orange juice, oil and pulp from the higher rate, but products like coffee and beef, of which Brazil is a major U.S. supplier, are now subject to the full rate, which took effect last week.

Trump imposed the levies on U.S. imports from Brazil largely in response to a Brazilian legal case he has accused of being a "witch hunt" against former President Jair Bolsonaro, his right-wing ally who is on trial for allegedly plotting to overturn the 2022 election after his supporters overran government buildings.

Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes who is overseeing the case said that he would continue to do his job and that Brazil's top court would not submit itself to foreign coercion and that it would guard the country's constitution.

Brazil's new aid program also eases the tax burden on exporters to help them remain competitive in the U.S., a measure in place through the end of next year that the government estimated it would cost 5 billion reais in foregone revenue.
State Sen. Royce Duplessis accused New Orleans City Council Vice President Helena Moreno's mayoral campaign of coordinating a smear campaign against him and sought to distance himself from outgoing Mayor LaToya Cantrell during an appearance Aug. 11 on the Da OG Murda Show  while also attempting to dodge the host's often homophobic, xenophobic and misogynistic rhetoric.

During the roughly 40-minute long interview, Duplessis claimed Moreno and her allies are using his working relationship with Cantrell  who is deeply unpopular in the city  against him, and said her campaign is spreading lies linking him to the mayor.

Helena Moreno and her camp in particular, they are actively working to try and spread lies and say things about me, Duplessis said. "But I can stand up and defend my record anywhere.

I think the mayor has made a lot of mistakes, he added. Im not here to defend her, she can defend herself. Im running because I want to do better for the city ... Its too much drama and too much chaos.

Moreno has not connected Duplessis to Cantrell, at least publicly or in an official capacity. Her campaign has not aired any ads or published campaign material going after Duplessis or linking him to the current mayor.

However, some of her supporters have used Duplessis longstanding working relationship with Cantrell, as well as photos and videos of the two together at city and state events, to criticize the state senator and question whether he will represent a break from Cantrell if elected.

City Council President and Moreno ally JP Morrell, for example, recently slammed Duplessis in a social media video, suggesting Duplessis would govern like Cantrell after the senator argued the city council is as much to blame for the citys problems as the administration.

He believes that he needs to have a council that does what he says, because thats what hes entitled to," Morrell said, adding, There are people running to be the next mayor who absolutely intend to be like Mayor Cantrell, seeking power for the sake of power, crav(ing) perks for not doing work ... These are the kinds of people who feel entitled to Nice, France, and the same kind of people who waste our time while the city is on fire.

Duplessis, who has called Morrell's statement misleading and a mischaracterization of his platform, has made criticism of the council a regular part of his campaign stump speeches. In fact, even as he sought to put some distance between himself and the mayor, he returned to it during the OG Murda interview.

If we have a big hurricane hit tomorrow, the leaders have to be able to get together in a room to plan, to do things, so that we dont have people suffering. If Im going back and forth with another elected official online, thats going to make our job harder. Leadership requires people to put their differences aside, Duplessis said.

Everybody knows OG Murda cant stand Mayor Cantrell, the host said, referring to himself in the third person. They presented you as like the next coming of Mayor Cantrell ... We dont want nobody following her blueprint, we want someone with a plan who will make New Orleans great.

Facts, said Duplessis, later adding, People have been burned and misled by politicians. I want to come and address the people. Theres no place Im not willing to go.

The YouTube aired interview was filled with several twists, turns and outbursts from the host.

Prior to Duplessis joining him on air, OG Murda had kicked off the episode by sharing intimate details over a recent sexual experience that involved getting slapped in the face by a woman.

Shortly after the interview began, OG Murda sparked up a blunt and took an apparent detour, going on an expletive-fueled rant that appeared to be directed at someone in his own comments section on a live stream. After he resumed the interview, he falsely claimed that illegal Mexican immigrants are taking jobs away from locals.

Duplessis did not address that claim directly, rather saying his priority was to make New Orleans more economically viable by repairing infrastructure, streamlining the permitting process for businesses and launching clean-up initiatives.

"My job would be to get more jobs to the city, he said. Fix the infrastructure, make it clean, make it safe ... I gotta make it work, I gotta make it functional."

He also declined to weigh in on a conspiracy about the now infamous May Orleans Parish jail outbreak, which OG Murda speculated may have been connected to Cantrells alleged relationship with her former security detail, NOPD officer Jeffrey Vappie. The jail is overseen by the Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office, not the police department.

When OG Murda suggested the mayor had turned a blind eye to conditions that led to the escape because of her alleged affair, Duplessis replied that she was noticeably absent while other officials were scrambling for answers, but didnt comment much further.

However, Duplessis did shut down the hosts comments on the recent Red Dress Run, which is put on by the local chapter of the national nonprofit Hash House Harriers, a running club that hosts an annual fundraiser for several charities, where participants are encouraged to wear red dresses. It is an inclusive event that draws thousands to the French Quarter for a bar crawl, but it is not specifically aligned with LGBTQ causes.

Referring to some reported brawls that took place after the event ended, OG Murda said, All I know is we had a bunch of transgenders having a raw rumble like it was the WWE, I dont know if it was gay fight club ... shouldnt that be canceled?

Duplessis, who has championed LGBTQ causes, said he stands behind his support for the queer community and that it looked like most people had good time at the Red Dress Run.

OG Murda asked him if he refused to condemn the event because he gets money from LGBTQ people and because the city makes money of LGBTQ tourists.

Its not about money. Its about inclusiveness, Duplessis said, adding that his support for the community doesnt have to do with money or my campaign.
By Luciana Magalhaes

SAO PAULO (Reuters) -Brazilian businessman Nelson Tanure may give up on his bid to acquire a controlling stake in Latin America's largest petrochemical firm Braskem as his exclusive negotiations window nears closing without an agreement to resolve claims from an environmental incident linked to the company.

Last May, Tanure signed a 90-day exclusivity document to discuss the terms of an offer to acquire a controlling stake in Braskem from Novonor, formerly Odebrecht. The businessman has since been working to resolve issues stemming from environmental investigation into ground subsidence in the northeastern city of Maceio, where Braskem had rock salt mines.

In a written response to Reuters on Monday, Tanure said settling this case is a non-negotiable term for his Braskem bid, whose current exclusivity period ends on August 21.

"An agreement with all entities involved in the Alagoas disaster is a sine qua non (condition), and especially applies to the non-transfer of criminal and financial responsibility to the new shareholders," he answered without elaborating on his next steps.

The incident was allegedly caused by Braskem's rock salt extraction activities, which began in the 1970s and were halted in 2019 after authorities determined they contributed to the sinking of five neighborhoods, leading to the displacement of thousands of residents.

As Tanure mulls his next moves, private equity firm IG4 Capital is biding its time, poised to launch a rival bid when Tanure-Novonor agreement lapses. IG4's strategy aims to consolidate Novonor's bank debt and exchange it for Braskem shares, sources said.

Braskem, Novonor and IG4 all declined to comment .

The critical decision period coincides with Brazil's Unipar's reported attempt to purchase Braskem's U.S. polypropylene plants for about $1 billion. Made public last week, the bid lacks approval from key parties, including Tanure and IG4, according to sources.

(Reporting by Luciana MagalhaesEditing by Marguerita Choy)
The Entertainer operates more than 160 shops in the UK - Redshoot Photography

The founder of Britains biggest toy shop chain has handed the company over to its employees.

Gary Grant, founder of The Entertainer, is preparing to transfer his familys 100pc ownership of the firm to an employee ownership trust (EOT), with the transfer to be completed next month.

The move exempts his family from potential death duties ahead of Rachel Reevess inheritance tax (IHT) raid.

The retailer said the step would ensure the group remains independent with its employees as beneficiaries, while preserving both the familys legacy and the family feel of the business.

It comes amid a shake-up of IHT rules by the Government, which will cap tax relief on family businesses handed down to descendants at 1m from April next year, resulting in higher bills for those inheriting businesses.

Under the previous system, company owners could leave assets to their families without paying death duties.

The reforms, announced by Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, in her maiden Budget last October, were designed to clamp down on tax avoidance and raise money for public services. However, they have outraged the owners of many family businesses, who argue that the changes will result in soaring IHT bills that could force their descendants to sell up.

While the change at The Entertainer will allow the Grant family to avoid higher death duties, it is understood that exempting the company from IHT was not the sole motivating factor in moving the toy chain into employee ownership.

The Grant family will avoid higher death duties under the employee ownership trust

Mr Grant said the decision had not been taken lightly.

He added: We couldnt be more proud that this still remains at the heart of the business today, thanks to the daily enthusiasm of our staff  many of whom have worked for us for many years. Because of this, ensuring our employees have a place in the Groups future is hugely important to us.

Under the EOT model, a controlling stake in The Entertainer will transfer to a trust which is indirectly owned by the employees, removing the need for staff to actually purchase shares themselves. The Grant family will receive payments for the business out of its future profits, although the company did not disclose a valuation. Any proceeds received by the Grant family will be tax-free.

Advocates of employee ownership say it rewards staff better, increases loyalty and productivity. Examples of prominent businesses that use this model include the John Lewis Partnership and retail chain Richer Sounds.

James de la Vingne, the chief executive of the Employee Ownership Association, said there was a growing trend for retailers making the move to employee ownership alongside calls to help save the high street.
Despite it being a challenging period for denim, Candiani Denim remains committed to investing in sustainability and innovative materials.

In a new 2024 sustainability report, the Italian mill details new protocols and partnerships that align with its goals to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing and products.

More from Sourcing Journal

In this environment, price has often become the dominant factor in purchasing decisions, leading many companies, across both fast fashion and premium sectors, to reduce or abandon their investments in sustainable and innovative materials in favor of cheaper alternatives, Alberto Candiani, president of Candiani Denim, stated in the report.

At Candiani, however, we have chosen a different path. We remain deeply committed to sustainable innovation and continuous improvement in our processes and efficiency. We believe that true value lies not just in creating denim that is beautiful or high-performing, but in producing fabrics that are cleaner, eco-compatible, and respectful of our planet. This conviction drives every decision we make and every product we develop, he added.

Transparency and data are key to the Milanese mills vision. In 2024, the Coreva innovator adopted the Sustainable Brand Platform (SBP) to collect reliable performance data, enhance its environmental impact, and ensure advanced supply chain traceability and transparency.

Manufacturers using SBP become strategic partners in sustainability, capable of embedding environmental metrics into both operational and long-term business planning, according to the report. The platform automates Corporate Carbon Footprint and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) calculations. It notifies partners of inefficiencies, identifies high-emission or resource-intensive stages of production and provides detailed environmental performance data that can be shared with clients and stakeholders,

Additionally, SBP is aligned with European regulatory frameworks including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and the upcoming Digital Product Passport. Candiani underscores how this strengthens its position ahead of compliance deadlines, while simultaneously reducing the administrative burden of manual data reporting.

Candiani is taking steps to improve its chemical management practices with a new internal screening and storage.
A second worker was found dead after an explosion Monday before a maintenance project at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works plant in an "extraordinarily difficult day for the U.S. Steel family."

Two died and more than 10 were injured after the industrial accident at about 11 a.m. Monday, at the Pittsburgh area coke plant, which supplies U.S. Steel's mills in Northwest Indiana with coke, a form of coal that's a primary ingredient of steelmaking. Timothy Quinn and an unidentified man died after coke oven gas ignited while workers were preparing for a maintenance job.

It is with profound sadness that I share with you that the U. S. Steel colleague who had been unaccounted for has been located and confirmed deceased, following an extensive search and rescue effort," U.S. Steel President and Chief Executive Officer David Burritt said. "I saw first-hand the impressive search and rescue efforts today and am incredibly grateful for those on site. Our hearts are with those who are going through this unimaginably difficult time.

Allegheny County Emergency Services reported a second worker had died and no one else had been unaccounted for. Ten steelworkers were taken to area hospitals to be treated for their injuries. Five were treated and released.

Five workers were in critical but stable condition Tuesday.

Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro called it a tragedy.

This was a human tragedy. We lost two lives here, Shapiro said. There are others who remain hospitalized and injured.

Shapiro said Quinn was a devoted father of three who had worked at the steel mill for two decades and was known as TQ at the steel mill. He was a second-generation steelworker who followed in his father's footsteps and was a mentor to younger steelworkers. He also was a "mama's boy" who would take care of his mother and his kids after working long shifts, Shapiro said.

We will make sure his children know their father was a good man, a special man and a man who built this community with his bare hands the way his father did, he said.

Steelworkers have a dangerous job but should be able to go home at the end of a shift, Shapiro said.

"Steelworkers go forward literally every day to build this region, build this commonwealth and build this country," he said. "It's dangerous work that they do. It shouldn't be as dangerous as it was yesterday. We owe them an answer to what happened. We owe them answers to their questions. And we owe them to never forget the sacrifices that happened here yesterday.

Multiple workers were injured and treated on scene. Allegheny County Emergency Services said it did not have the exact number due to "the scope of the incident."

The USW has occupational health and safety experts and other representatives on the ground at the Clairton Works assessing the situation and aiding our members, said USW District 10 Director Bernie Hall. In the coming days, we will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to see that our members get the support they need.

Burritt described it as an "extraordinarily difficult day for the U.S. Steel family."

"We have suffered heartbreaking losses," he said.

U.S. Steel will do everything it can for the families and is deploying professional counselors to the steel mill, he said.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, U.S. Steel spokesman Andrew Fulton said. Allegheny County Emergency Services, Allegheny County Police, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board and the ATF are conducting an investigation.

Were working closely with local, state and federal authorities to know exactly what happened, Burritt said. Were not going to speculate. Were going to let the people do their work and support them in this critical job.

First responders saved lives with their quick response to the explosion Monday, Hall said.

Health and safety are central to what we do as a union, he said. Every worker deserves to go home every day. Were going to make sure this investigation is thorough and, just as importantly, transparent. The families deserve it.

The coke works in western Pennsylvania has supplied coke to Gary Works since the coke battery was closed there in 2015.
CATL, a China-based battery manufacturer, has announced the suspension of operations at one of its lithium mines in Yichun, Jiangxi province, due to an expired licence, according to a Reuters report.

The company is reportedly actively seeking to renew the licence to resume production promptly.

CATL's Yichun mine is capable of producing more than 46,000 tonnes per annum of lithium carbonate equivalent, around 3% of the projected global lithium output for 2025.

The stoppage at the mine marks the first publicly known suspension in the region.

Following the announcement, lithium carbonate futures on the Guangzhou Futures Exchange surged by 8%, hitting the price limit.

Shares of lithium miners in China and Australia also experienced significant gains, with some stocks soaring by more than 10%.

Chinese lithium mining companies saw their share prices rise, with Ganfeng Lithium's shares increasing by more than 4% and Tianqi Lithium's shares jumping by around 11%.

In Australia, Liontown Resources led the gains with a 25% surge, while other miners such as Pilbara Minerals, IGO, Core Lithium and Mineral Resources also saw their stocks rise significantly.

The volatility of lithium prices has been ongoing since July, when China intensified its stance against overcapacity in the mining sector.

This has led investors to speculate that supply side reforms could limit the output of lithium and other commodities.

The lithium sector has faced challenges in terms of oversupply and slower-than-expected demand growth for electric vehicles.

After reaching record highs in 2022, lithium prices have since plummeted nearly 90%, causing global producers to reconsider their investment strategies.

Last September, lithium prices increased when CATL announced adjustments to production at the Yichun project.

However, prices declined after the company revealed plans to restart operations in February.

Additionally, China has postponed and quietly released its first rare earth mining and smelting quotas for 2025, indicating a move towards stricter regulation of this vital sector.

The delay in quotas this year is partly due to a proposal to include imported ore in the quota system, which has met with opposition from companies reliant on imported materials.

"CATL suspends operations at major lithium mine due to expired licence" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Jonathan Beaton

Florida is unpredictable.

One day your company is running smoothly  the next, a lawsuit, employee dispute, or public controversy puts your name in the headlines. In todays fast-moving media climate, especially here in Florida, the pressure builds instantly. Reporters start calling. Social media chatter erupts. And suddenly, how you communicate matters just as much as whats actually happening.

This is where a crisis PR specialist or crisis communications agency comes in.

Whether you work in law, real estate, finance, healthcare, technology, or public service, you need a plan  and a partner  to manage the story before the story manages you.

Why Crisis Communications in Florida Is Especially High Stakes

If youve done business in Florida, you already know: this state plays by its own rules.

Court records are public and easily searchable.

Local news outlets are aggressive in chasing breaking stories.

Lawsuits and controversies often go viral long before a judge hears the case.

From Miami to Orlando to Tampa, news moves quickly  and its often one-sided.

Thats why Florida crisis communications isnt just about reacting. Its about preparing to respond strategically and credibly the moment a problem surfaces. The right crisis management firm ensures your voice is heard  clearly, calmly, and effectively  when it matters most.

Why Florida Law Firms and High-Stakes Industries Need Crisis PR Support

Attorneys are trained to argue in court  but the court of public opinion follows its own rules.

Law firms across Florida are facing unprecedented media scrutiny:

High-profile cases generate press coverage whether wanted or not.

Legal filings, while public, are often misinterpreted when stripped of context.

Clients expect their legal team to have a communications strategy as well as a legal one.

This is where a legal PR firm or litigation crisis communications agency comes in. These specialized teams ensure legal matters are explained accurately and ethically to the media and public.

Weve acted as a PR agency for law firms, a PR firm for attorneys, and a lawyer public relations partner in cases involving corporate fraud, wrongful death, employment discrimination, and whistleblower claims. In each instance, how the story was told publicly was just as critical as the motions filed in court.

What a Florida Crisis PR Expert Actually Does

Done right, Florida crisis PR is not about spin  its about strategy:

Controlling the narrative early, before misinformation spreads.

Protecting reputation with clients, investors, and the public.

Giving legal and internal teams the space to work without public pressure.

Rebuilding trust once the crisis passes.

As a crisis management agency, we also help with:

Litigation public relations during active disputes.

Acting as a crisis PR fixer when immediate media intervention is needed.

Providing long-term attorney public relations support to rebuild credibility.

A Real-World Florida Litigation Crisis Management Example

One recent client  a mid-size South Florida law firm  faced a surprise lawsuit involving a celebrity client.

Within an hour, TMZ was calling. Twitter/X was buzzing. Competitors tried to poach their clients in the chaos.

They called us immediately.

As their litigation crisis management firm, we helped them:

Issue a timely, professional media statement.

Counter false narratives spreading online.

Support the legal team with precise, ethical messaging.

Reassure clients and referral sources that the matter was under control.

A month later, the news cycle had moved on  and their reputation stayed intact. Thats the power of litigation crisis communications in Florida.

Florida Roots, National Reach

While Im based in Florida, my work as a crisis PR expert and crisis communications agency lead has taken me across the country. Ive advised clients in New York, California, Texas, and beyond, from corporate boardrooms to political campaigns to high-profile legal battles.

Whether the story breaks in Miami, Los Angeles, or Washington, D.C., I partner with media outlets and influencers nationwide to shape coverage and mitigate damage.

Dont Wait for the Fire to Call the Fire Department

You wouldnt wait until a hurricane hits to board up your windows  and you shouldnt wait for a crisis to build your communications plan.

If youre a Florida business, law firm, public figure, or organization that values its reputation, nows the time to prepare. Know who youll call. Know what youll say. And make sure your team understands the media, the law, and the local landscape.

Because once the headlines hit, its already game time.

***

Jonathan Beaton is a crisis PR expert, litigation crisis communications specialist, and founder of Inside Advantage PR, a legal PR agency and crisis management firm serving clients nationwide. He has advised Fortune 500 companies, national law firms, financial institutions and high-profile individuals in high-stakes, high-visibility situations.
Genesis 21 Consulting has signed on to improve Israels image in the US via strategic communications support, content creation and influencer outreach.

Based in Shoham, Israel, the strategic consulting firm is owned by Yitzhak Tzahi Daboush, according to its Justice Department filing.

It plans to disseminate informational materials to public officials, government agencies, educational organizations and nationality groups.

The outreach will be on behalf of the advertising bureau of Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Genesis 21 says it has held verbal discussions with Ministry officials and expects to enter into a formal written contract shortly.

That pact is expected to be for one year with a renewal option. Fees and expenses have yet to be determined.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans for the military occupation of the Gaza Strip, and the IDF on Aug 13 started bombing Gaza City, ahead of moving soldiers into the city of 1M people.
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
What photo-op will Donald Trump get from his deployment of 800 National Guard troops to Washington? Lets hope he does better this time around.

That was when he awkwardly stood outside the historic St Johns Church on June 1, 2020 holding a bible that Ivanka Trump conveniently whipped out of her handbag.

As cameras recorded Trump's photo-op, federal troops had just wrapped up their beating the brains out of peaceful protesters at Lafayette Park, who were demonstrating against racial injustice in the aftermath of the George Floyd murder.

Though Trump is a favorite among evangelical Christians, the president didnt look too comfortable standing outside a house of worship.

It's a good thing that St. John's was closed for repairs following a small fire. Trump staffers may have advised him to go inside and say a prayer for himself.

Rev. Mariann Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of DC, was outraged at Trumps photo-op. He took the symbols sacred to our tradition and stood in front of a house of prayer in full expectation that would be a celebratory moment, she told the New York Times.

Mark Miley, then-chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, apologized for his role in the charade.

Dressed in his signature battle fatigues, Miley walked behind Trump to St. Johns. I should not have been there, he said during a commencement address to National Defense University. My presence in that moment and in that environment created a perception of the military involved in domestic politics.

Miley repeated his opposition to Trumps suggestion that federal troops be deployed nationwide to crack down on protests.

Trumps recent deployment of soldiers to Los Angeles and DC are moves to desensitize Americans about the presence of armed soldiers patrolling the streets. [I still find it unsettling that in the aftermath of 9/11, National Guard troopers with automatic weapons are still inside Grand Central.]

The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon is mulling the creation of a domestic civil disturbance quick reaction force to quell unrest anywhere in the country.

Six hundred National Guard troops will be split evenly and based in Alabama and Arizona to handle disturbances east and west of the Mississippi River. They would be available around-the-clock and under the command of the president.

There is still time to reject Trumps guard. The Pentagon documents outlining the rapid deployment force plans are marked predecisional.

Air Force General Dan Caine currently chairs the Joint Chief of Staff. Miley regrets being used as Trumps stooge at St. Johns. Will "Razin" Caine have the yarbles to torpedo Trumps bid to create his own militia force to go after perceived enemies?

Perplexed by the audacity of Perplexity? The AI start-up scores the PR play of the week by offering a whopping $34.5B bid to take the Chrome web browser off the hands of Google. The search giant may be forced to unload Chrome as part of an antitrust agreement.

Perplexity may be known in the world of artificial intelligence but it was a non-entity to the rest of us.

Thats no longer the case--thanks to the magic of PR. Perplexitys astounding offer to Google received coverage in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Financial Times, Variety, BBC, Times of India, Mexico Business News, TechCrunch, Reuters, CNN, Bloomberg and CNBC.

Thats pretty sweet. A sweetener: In the Aug. 12 offer letter that Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivasan sent to Alphabet chief Sundar Pichai, he asked for a response to the $34.5B bid by Aug 15.

Hows that for chutzpah!

Tavares tries again. Tavares, "Americas Seaplane City," is still looking for a government relations firm to handle state and federal matters.

The central Florida city had put out a call for a lobbying firm earlier this year, asking for proposals by April 24.

Things didn't work out as planned. Theres a new RFP with a deadline of Aug. 22.

Heres a Tavares tidbit.

Alexander St. Clair-Abrams, a newspaper and railroad man from a Creole family in New Orleans, founded Tavares in 1880.

He named it after a Portuguese ancestor. By 1884, Tavares had a post office, hotel, three stores, sawmill and eight cottages.

St Clair-Abrams dreamed of Tavares replacing Tallahassee as the capital of Florida.

Alas, that didnt happen. Tavares did get a consolation prize. It was named the seat of Lake County, which is now a fast-growing area of the Sunshine State with more than 400K people. Thats not too shabby.
Sandra Howard

Keller Williams Realty, a real estate franchise with 1,000 offices internationally, names Sandra Howard as CMO. Howard joins the company from Dallas-based ad agency LERMA/, where she was principal of brand strategy. Before that, she was corporate brand marketing and business advertising VP at AT&T, leading enterprise-wide advertising best practices and the companys messaging and brand story across all platforms and business units. At KW, Howard will work to accelerate the companys growth via strategic marketing, branding, and communications-driven innovation and initiatives. With two decades of shaping brand strategy and delivering transformative results for some of the worlds most recognized companies, Sandra brings a wealth of experience to elevate our competitive position and the brands of our agents and franchisees, said KW CEO and president Chris Czarnecki.

Megan Britt

Air Products, which supplies essential industrial gases, related equipment and applications expertise to customers in dozens of industries, brings on Megan Britt as VP, investor relations. Britt comes to the company from the VP, investor relation post at Archer-Daniels Midland. She has also headed up investor relations at Tyson Foods and Corteva Agriscience, and held various finance and strategy roles at DuPont. Megans expertise will be valuable in communicating our progress and further strengthening relationships with an.lysts and investors around the world, said Air Products chief financial officer Melissa Schaeffer,

Lynn Cobb

LP Building Solutions appoints Lynn Cobb as VP of marketing, a newly created role. Cobb was previously VP customer experience at MasterBrand Cabinets. She has also served as head of global digital marketing at biotech research company Agilent Technologies and held senior marketing posts at DuPont and Procter & Gamble. In her new role, Cobb will lead the development and execution of LPs commercial strategy, working in close partnership with the companys sales, supply chain, and customer experience teams. She will oversee brand management, product innovation, and commercialization initiatives. Her expertise in developing and executing commercial strategies, along with her focus on brand and customer experience, will be instrumental in strengthening our market presence and delivering greater value to our customers, said LP SVP, chief commercial officer Craig Sichling.
THE need for balanced regional development was highlighted by An Tanaiste, Simon Harris is his address at the official opening of the Tullamore Show and the FBD National Livestock show at the Butterfield Estate in Blueball on Sunday afternoon last.

The Tanaiste promised that the Government would put farming and rural development at the top of this Government's agenda.

The Fine Gael leader also vowed to ensure that young people in Offaly, Kerry, Mayo and right around the country have the same opportunities at those living in the big cities.

But balanced regional development does not seem to be high on the priority list for the IDA, Tullamore based Fianna Fail TD Tony McCormack highlighted this week.

He has called on the IDA to address the clear imbalance in job creation and investment across the Midlands and highlighted that Offaly has been consistently overlooked in favour of neighbouring counties.

READ NEXT: History made as Tullamore Lions club elects first female President

Figures from the Irish Independent this week reveal the stark reality, thundered Deputy McCormack.

Over the past ten years, Westmeath has received 245 IDA itineraries compared to just 45 for Offaly.

This is not balanced regional development  it is clear neglect, said Deputy McCormack.

The IDAs approach is disproportionately favouring Dublin and, within the Midlands, Westmeath. Offaly is being left behind.

The Tullamore TD also renewed his call for the development of a new IDA business park in the county town, pointing out that the towns existing park is at full capacity.

Offaly has the track record, the talent, the infrastructure, and the location to attract high-quality jobs. Were just one hour from Dublin Airport, we have excellent road and rail connectivity, and were at the heart of Ireland. If you dont market it, you wont sell it  and the IDA simply isnt marketing Offaly.

"The county also boasts exceptional green energy assets, with operational and planned investments in battery storage, wind farms, and solar farms by Bord na Mona and private investors. Companies looking to strengthen their sustainability credentials should be knocking on our door, Deputy McCormack added.

READ NEXT: Tanaiste wants young Offaly people to have same opportunities as those in cities

He criticised the concentration of IDA staff and facilities in Westmeath, saying it inevitably channels investment there.

Their office is in Westmeath, most of their staff are from Westmeath, the Chairman of IDA is from Westmeath, and the Minister responsible is from Westmeath. Its easy for them to bring visitors to Athlone, but Offaly is rarely given the same platform.

He said that on housing  a key factor for companies considering relocation  Offaly is well-prepared.

We have 1,200 housing units either under construction, ready to start, or with planning permission  all to be delivered within 24 months. This is an ideal location for families to live, work, and thrive.

Offaly is ready to grow  but we need the IDA to give us a fair chance. I will keep fighting to ensure we get our rightful share of investment and jobs. This is about balanced growth for the entire Midlands, not just one county, his statement concuded.
Chinas electricity consumption continues to outpace its gross domestic product (GDP) growth, driven by a shift toward energy-intensive industries and the rapid electrification of transportation and digital infrastructure. The robust increase in electricity demand is progressively supported by clean energy. The countrys power consumption is forecast to reach 13,757TWh in 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate of 6.3% during 2024-2030.

Chinas real GDP (in US dollars, 2015 prices) is set to increase from $2,01bn in 2024 to $2,31bn in 2030, driving the demand for electricity. Despite a decline in Chinas population from 1,412 million in 2020 to 1,410 million in 2024, the electricity consumption has consistently shown over 6% growth in recent years, and the trend is expected to continue with rapid industrialisation and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure development.

In recent years, Chinas electricity consumption has expanded at a significant pace relative to that of other nations. The growth in generation from hydropower and renewable energy sources has resulted in excess generation capacity at numerous coal-fired power plants. Consequently, the Chinese government has imposed a moratorium on the construction of new coal-based facilities in the key economic regions of Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing.

As China pivots from heavy industries to service and high-tech sectors, and increasingly emphasises sustainable development, the demand for coal is anticipated to decline further. Nonetheless, coal is projected to remain the predominant source of power generation throughout the forecast period.

In the short term, China is confronted with the challenges of elevated energy costs and commodity prices. However, its partnership with Russia is expected to present an opportunity to secure oil, coal, and gas imports through advantageous agreements.

In 2024, the industrial sector occupied a dominant share in power consumption, accounting for 67%. This was followed by the residential sector with 15.6%, and the commercial sector with a share of 4.4%. The transport sector held a share of 2.3% whereas other segments together contributed to a 10.7% share.

Emerging industries, including EVs, AI, data centres, semiconductors, and 5G infrastructure are experiencing rapid growth. These sectors are notably electricity-dependent and are anticipated to propel the demand for power within the country.

China presents three principal areas of investment opportunity: gas-based power generation, renewable power generation, and smart grid infrastructure. The prospects for gas-based generation are poised to increase, driven by the governments initiative to curtail coal-based power generation. The country has achieved significant advancements in renewable power, with wind and solar energy poised for continued expansion.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) today reported that ten Closure Orders and two Prohibition Orders were served on food businesses during the month of July for breaches of food safety legislation, pursuant to the FSAI Act, 1998 and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020.

The Enforcement Orders were issued by Environmental Health Officers in the Health Service Executive (HSE).

Four Closure Orders were served under the FSAI Act, 1998 on:

Lidl Sallynoggin Road, Glenageary, Co. Dublin.

Creeds Foodstore Burncourt Cahir, Co. Tipperary

Brandon Hotel (Closed areas: All kitchen areas including dry goods store, wash up areas, staff canteen, restaurant and stills area.) Prince's Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry

Emerald Park (Closed area: The storage unit located to the rear of "coffee dock" in Emerald Park) Kilbrew Ashbourne, Co. Meath.



Six Closure Orders were served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020 on:

Londis Athboy (Closed areas: the deli/food preparation area and ice cream service area) Connaught Street, Athboy, Co. Meath

KRS Catering Stall (Closed activity: the service of all foods prepared off-site and transported to the venue. Closure does not apply to the sale/service of beverages and foods prepared on-site) Powerstown Park Racecourse, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary

Tim Nessa 2A John's Street, Co. Limerick

Hidden Dojo Asian Street food 47A Phibsborough Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.

Wakami Sushi & Asian 47A Phibsborough Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.

Costa Coffee 1 Dawson Street, Dublin 2

One Prohibition Order was served under the FSAI Act, 1998 on:

Ballymaguire Foods Unlimited Company, Rathmooney, Lusk,Co. Dublin.

One Prohibition Order was served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020 on:

Timothy Onwuegbusi, 2A John's Street, Limerick and Emeka Ikebudu, 2A John's Street, Limerick.

Some of the reasons for the Enforcement Orders in July include: rat droppings found in a dishwasher room and food store and noted at a main customer entrance; inadequate means to wash hands preventing frequent handwashing in a kitchen; owners and staff not wearing clean protective clothing during food preparation; dead beetles observed in the bottom of a container of packaged food displayed for sale; various foods such as meat and poultry based curries and yoghurt and vegetable based condiments being kept at unsafe temperatures; rat droppings found in a storage unit which was used to store food and food contact materials such as reusable cups, lids and straws; numerous rodent droppings noted on high and low level shelving where food was stored; dead cockroaches in a main kitchen under worksurfaces where food is prepared and under cooking equipment where food is cooked; extensive food debris on the floor of the store room, on the shop floor and on the floor of a bakery.

Mr Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, said: "Recent foodborne incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for food businesses to maintain the highest food safety standards. Consumers are entitled to expect that the food they purchase is safe, and food businesses have a clear legal and moral responsibility to ensure that it is.

"The Enforcement Orders issued this month reflect serious, preventable breaches of food safety law.

"Every food business must take its responsibility to comply with food safety law seriously. The FSAI can provide support and advice to food businesses to help them meet their obligations. However, as demonstrated by the enforcement actions this month, where food businesses do not comply with their obligations, we will take action.

Details of the food businesses served with Enforcement Orders are published on the FSAIs website at www.fsai.ie.

Closure Orders and Improvement Orders will remain listed in the enforcement reports on the website for a period of three months from the date of when a premises is adjudged to have corrected its food safety issue, with Prohibition Orders being listed for a period of one month.
A public protest will be held this Saturday, August 16, over the proposed downgrading of Portiuncula University Hospital.

The event will be held in Ballinasloe, starting at 12, in Fairgreen Car Park opposite the courthouse (also known as 4 Society St Parking).

A public meeting was held on Tuesday August 5 last in Gullane's Hotel in the town, which was attended by 200 people and chaired by retired Portiuncula paediatrician Dr Kevin Connolly. Independent councillor Dr Evelyn Parsons was one of those who made a passionate and insightful statement during the meeting.

Many people throughout the midlands were upset and angered when they heard the HSE and Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill announce that high-risk or complex pregnancies will no longer be managed at Portiuncula.

TDs, councillors and MEPs were present during the Gullane's Hotel meeting which was told about the knock-on effects for neighbouring hospitals already under strain if complex cases are moved elsewhere. Local mothers who previously gave birth at Portiuncula addressed the meeting, expressing their opposition to the proposal.

The meeting agreed to hold a public protest in Ballinasloe on Saturday, August 16th and the organisers called for a strong local turnout in opposition to what they view as the erosion of essential services.

The opposition group, which is calling itself the Portiuncula Maternity Alliance, has also set up a petition which can be signed at https://www.change.org/p/save- maternity-services-at-portiuncula- hospital.

We believe that the current plans, states the group, which involve diverting high-risk patients to other facilities, pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of mothers and babies in the region. Our petition calls for the immediate reconsideration of these plans and the preservation of comprehensive maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital.

The group points out that the proposal is alarming. They say diverting high-risk patients elsewhere could lead to delayed care, increased travel times, and potentially, adverse outcomes for both mothers and infants. The proximity of a local maternity unit is crucial, especially in emergencies. The current proposal undermines the principle of providing timely and accessible healthcare to all residents. The potential for increased travel times to other hospitals, such as University Hospital Galway, could be catastrophic in situations requiring immediate medical intervention...We call for transparency and accountability in the management of maternity services. The lack of clear communication and consultation with the community regarding these changes is unacceptable...We believe that preserving maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital is essential for the health and well-being of our community. We urge you to support this petition and help us ensure that mothers and babies receive the care they deserve.


Hedgemony

(Image by Rand) Details DMCA



Very loosely inspired by the memoir, Chomsky and Me (OR Books, 2023) by Bev Boisseau Stohl. Boisseau describes her time as Chomskys office manager for 24 years at MIT. Among her multitudinous tasks was setting up interviews with people of every walk and cut of cloth who, seemingly, came by to pick the public philosophers brains. This sitcom is meant to be droll tribute to a great voice of reason and wisdom in the perfecting of the Human Project.

The characters in episode 5, in the order they appear, are Noam, Glenn, Bev, G. Gordon Liddy, and Laura. The characters are depicted in a satirical fashion, resembling Larry David caricatures. No attempt is made here to paint accurate pictures of real lives or personalities.

In this episode, Noam is worried about the movement of the Doomsday Clock forward toward The End. His mental tussles with the structures of architecture and boneheaded protesters continue to plague his old age. He begins to worry about ChatGPT and the coming AGI paradigm shift just ahead. Bev and Laura disappear down a rabbit hole. Glenn whines about deep fakes and commuting on the Red Line. Noam gives a speech about the decline of American Idealism in the time of MAGA dogmatists. Mystery Man finds a way to use AI to raise funds to buy Building 20 and has begun evicting people he dislikes.

SCENE 1: INT. NOAMS BEDROOM, A DREAM

Noam is having a recurring nightmare. The Doomsday Clock is being mischievously placed on the dome of the MIT building, site of so many previous pranks, by bonkers engineering students wanting to send some kind of message. Noam is worried that too little care is being employed in the erection of the clock; he has flashes of Harold Lloyd. Sure enough, as he stares up, one of the engineers mistakenly pushes the minute hand forward to midnight. Noams mouth opens in terror and he screams (but no one can hear you in inner space). There is a massive explosion and a whiteout. Noam wakes and sits up in his bed, sweating.

Talking Alarm Clock: Time to wake up, Professor Chomsky. (pause) Time to wake up, Mr. Chomsky. (pause) Time to wake up, Gnome. (pause) Do you know where your time has been today? (pause) Wake up.

CHOMSKY turns the machine off. He sits there looking bewildered for a moment.

CUT to:

SCENE 2: EXT. STATA BUILDING, NOAM LOOKING UP GLUMLY AT THE PUNCHED IN THE FACE STRUCTURE SEEMINGLY MEANT TO OUTDO BRUTALISM

CHOMSKY: What the -- (we hear dogs barking, nearing, coming right at him) -- hey, whats this? (rubs his eyes, as four mechanical AI-driven dogs from Boston Dynamics come huffing and puffing, straining the leashes that two huge security-looking hulks with sunglasses and shirt labels that say BOSTON DYNAMICS) Morning.

DARKGLASSES 1: (speaking like the melting cop from Terminator 2) Morning, sir. Arent you the world-renowned philosopher, Noam Chomsky?

DARKGLASSES 2: Bediddle, bediddle.

CHOMSKY: Well, yes I am. (gestures at DG2) Whats with him.

DARKGLASSES 1: Hes a robot, sir. And these are robot dogs. Im out taking them all for a walk.

CHOMSKY: (joking) They dont bite, do they?

DARKGLASSES 1: The dogs dont, no.

DARKGLASSES 2: Bediddle, bediddle. (dripping what appears to be saliva)

CHOMSKY: Whats with him?

DARKGLASSES 1: We havent uploaded his mind yet. He is still at the moron level.

CHOMSKY: Is that contagious? Because Im seeing --

DARKGLASSES 1: Well, there does seem to be an unnatural brain drain going on everywhere.

While NOAM considers this remark, one of the dogs squats and takes a sh*t on the grass. It looks like old magnetic tapes or something, now steaming. A dog held by SG2 sniffs at Noam and then takes a pee on his knee; it is machine oil.

DARKGLASSES 1: Sorry about that, sir. (a kind of radio in the head broadcast is heard) Gotta run, sir. Send that bill for the dry cleaners. (the dog arfs, as in in apology or evil humor)

DG2: Bediddle, bediddle

They run off toward the marketplace. NOAM looks back at the Stata and walks toward the entry, the camera freezes for a moment at the punch in the face in front of him.

SCENE 3: INT. STATA BUILDING, GLENNS OFFICE

Glenn is playing with the gnomes, dollies talking fashion. One gnome is larger than the other. The smaller gnome wears a Che Guevara tshirt. In the faux convo that ensues Che represents the left wing press angry at Noams shortcomings. He is playacting the dolls in a psychodrama fashion. Noam looks on quietly as if he were observing respectfully Dibs: In search of himself.

Dialogue of dolls

NOAM GNOME: Its Mafia Logic. Which is to say, Just Do It is the slogan that prevails. Do It or we send some muscle to enforce.

GLENN THE REPORTER GNOME: Mr. Chomsky, how come you use deepfake videos to spread your gospel on youtube?

NOAM GNOME: Youre a shallowfake, arent you?

GLENN THE REPORTER GNOME: Its just a question. You dont have to get snippy.

NOAM GNOME: Well, I dont use YouTube. Ill ask Bev.

GLENN THE REPORTER GNOME: Mr. Chomsky, I saw it myself. You wouldnt answer why you wrote that book The Hidden Persuaders.

There is a flash of an early Bob Dylan press conference where a young reporter asks what he meant by his song, Eve of Destruction?

NOAM GNOME: You mean Manufactured Consent?

GLENN THE REPORTER GNOME: No, Mr. Chomsky. (angry) I do not.

Noam listens and imagines the Che character at one of his conferences during the q and a. Listening to the carping journo imagined Noam finally gets irked enough that he comes off the screen, ala woody Allen's purple Rose of Cairo, and comes at Che, climbing over the front rows to get at him, and reaching him beats Che over the head with a stuffed gnome that breaks and pours its guts -- littler gnomes.

NOAM GNOME: Young man, you are suffering from a delusion. Theres a doctor I recommend you see, name is: Marty Cohn.

GLENN THE REPORTER GNOME: You just keep hurting me.

Flash of Che in the hospital bedridden on the Bruised Ego ward, with several other hurt souls. Big Bird as a midget. Carrie, the debutante. Dirty Harry, no gun. Nurse Ratchett walking with a wrench.

CHOMSKY doesn't greet GLENN but continues walking to his office where BEV is already setting up his interview. He looks glum.

SCENE 3: INT. STATA BUILDING, NOAMS OFFICE

CHOMSKY does a double-take at the door of his office as he sees who his guest is this day -- G. GORDON LIDDY. To keep fresh and enjoy the surprise, CHOMSKY has agreed to let BEV set up the interviews as she pleases with whomever she wants. Now he looks as if BEV has crossed the line. He seems to hesitate, as if he might prefer to return to GLENNs office and listen to him blather.

CHOMSKY: Already, Bev? (he eyeballs LIDDY disapprovingly)

BEV: Hi Noam. Yup, all set. This is Mr. Liddy. Have you two met before?

CHOMSKY: Hello G.

LIDDY: Noam.

CHOMSKY: (whispering to Bev) You couldnt find another dead guy? First Turd Blossom, now him. Why all the evil, Bev? (to LIDDY) Youre looking healthy for a dead guy.

LIDDY: Enhanced holography and the latest ChatGPT.

BEV: Gordon couldnt look better if he were an embalmed Egyptian cat.

CHOMSKY: Well, lets get on with it. (sits down at his desk and stares at the hologram gloomily)

LIDDY: I understand that you hate AI. You turning into a Luddite in your old age?

CHOMSKY: No. Not a Luddite, but keeping tabs on the abuses as they will inevitably mount up. I take it you favor the high wire act of artificial intelligence?

LIDDY: Oh, man, if only we had this gadgetry in the good ol days of dirty tricks.

CHOMSKY: What might have you used it for?

LIDDY: It would have changed the way I approached Nacht und Nebel.

CHOMSKY: How so? Wait, Nacht und Nebel -- wasnt that your plan to kidnap dissidents and Nixon enemies and bring them down to Mexico --

LIDDY: -- Correcto --

CHOMSKY: -- and have them killed --

LIDDY: We rolled the idea over.

CHOMKY: I understand that you told Mitchell that , I quote, adjust a few pesos buys a lot of shallow graves down there, end quote.

LIDDY: Absolutamente! Still does! Meh-hico is a solid trading partner for the deep state.

CHOMSKY: So, what would you do today, you were saying, with the latest fun gadgets?

LIDDY: We could still bring them to Meh-hico. But I would tell the president to let me have a warehouse where I can fit them with implants or BCI. Of course, we have a bespoke database for each of the lefty cretins. So, we could lock them inside their own brain and have them interact with a ChatGPT that knows all about their lives -- personal, deeply personal, and compromising to the core. And just f*ck with them all day -- for as long as it takes.

CHOMSKY: As long as what takes?

LIDDY: It. Cant say more or Id have to kidnap you.

CHOMSKY: Was I on your list, along with Abbie?

LIDDY: (laughing) God no. We could tell you would point to the inside men. You talk the macro. We laugh. We go f*ck-a-doodle-doo in the dark while you climb on noble wings toward the sun. Laugh every time you talk about manufactured consent.

BEV: Gordon, as usual you are melodramatic. White House plumber? You couldnt plunge the depths of Noams toilet bowl.

LIDDY: You admit, though, that his toilet bowl has depth. (wears a sh*t-eating grin)

BEV: Did you really stupidly set a rat trap in your prison cell and get caught by it yourself?

CHOMSKY: Hoisted on his own petard.

LIDDY: Says the guy who wont say it was an inside job. (smirks, like he just hit a wall ball off the Green Monster)

BEV: Okay, thats enough.

LIDDY: Wait. I propose a series of debates with Noam on college campuses.

BEV: What, like with Abbie?

LIDDY: Yeah. In fact, is his holograph around? Could be fun talkin to Mr Street Theatre again.

BEV: No thanks. (clicks off the holograph) Sorry Noam.

CHOMSKY: Well, Ali G is one thing, but can you try to leave the hoodlums off the interview list?

BEV: Sure. (smiles) Ill go get you some coffee.

CHOMSKY: The device is off, right? He wont suddenly leap back to life and drag me down to Meh-hico, will he?

BEV: Off.

BEV leaves the office. CHOMSKY sits there at his desk. His look: Hes not liking the 21st century.

cut to -

SCENE 4: INT. THE WURSTHAUS RESTAURANT, HARVARD SQUARE

BEV and LAURA are eating a late lunch, jawing.

BEV: So the thing is, it keeps happening when I least expect it. Im talking normally, then suddenly Im all word salad or something.

LAURA munches loudly on her side salad with Russian dressing. BEV gives her a look.

LAURA: Ive been giving it some thought. (she pulls a book out of her satchel -- Lewis Carolls Through the Looking Glass, turned to Jabberwocky) Lewis Carroll.

BEV: Through the Looking Glass?

LAURA: Yeah. We have tried a few things now. CBT doesn't get us there.

BEV: There?

LAURA: Youll see. I hope. No harm in trying, right?

BEV: What do you have in mind?

LAURA: Lets read Jabberwocky together.

BEV: How will that help?

LAURA: Can I try some of your Black Forest cake? (Bev gestures affirmatively) So, we read the poem, stanza by stanza. Ill start, then you go -- reading it backwards, then I go reading it backwards, then you reverse my read and I read the next stanza properly, and then your read, etcetera. By the end you should be cured.

BEV: You are kidding, right?

LAURA: Not at all. Its part of some research Im doing with dyslexia.

BEV: Lysdexia?

LAURA: Funny. Not. My papers in peer review.

BEV: For Jabberwocky? (gestures toward LAURAs aromatic gingerbread; LAURA assents; BEV sticks a fork in)

LAURA: Most of its Jabberwocky.

BEV: (to the passing waiter) Can I have my schnitzel doggy-bagged?

WAITER: Sure.

LAURA: There was only a little left of the schnitzel.

BEV: Oh, I know, but Glenn will eat it. Hes always wanted to come here but cant afford to. I throw him a bone once in a while.

LAURA: Thoughtful.

BEV: Have my moments. Although today was not a highlight reel.

LAURA: (puts book down) Oh?

BEV: I made him interview G. Gordon Liddy.

LAURA: The Nixon White House plumber? Thought he was dead. (stabs at more of BEVs cake)

BEV: A holographer dropped in. Had a database. Coulda been someone else Noam talked with. I thought contentious would be a nice break. Galileo came to mind.

LAURA: Hmph. Ready? (pause followed by LAURA reading Jabberwocky)

Twas brillig, and the slithy toves

Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;

All mimsy were the borogoves,

And the mome raths outgrabe.

BEV:

Outgrabe raths mome the and

Borogives the were mimsy all

wabe the in gimbal and gyre did,

toves slithy the and, trove brillig twas.

LAURA: (faster)

Outgrabe raths mome the and

Borogives the were mimsy all

wabe the in gimbal and gyre did,

toves slithy the and, trove brillig twas.

BEV: (panicking, the trick isnt working)

Outgrabe raths mome the and

Borogives the were mimsy all

shitticus wabe gimbal gyre did,

toves slithy Laura!, trove brillig twas.

LAURA:

Yo, it was a funky time, and the sly toves

Were twistin and turnin in the groove;

All wild and wacky were the borogoves,

And the mome raths were makin their move.

BEV: Damn, girl, fo shizzle my nizzle

The waiter places the doggybag on the table, smiling at first at their wordplay, but sees their anxiety and moves off quickly. BEV and LAURA see the waiters look and splash some cash on the table and get up to leave.

BEV: Hot damn, cadillac, this shits some sizzle! (they head for the door)

LAURA: Mighty cardiac pristine feather drizzle. (they exit, worried, like they stuck down the rabbit hole)

cut to-

SCENE 5: INT. KRESGE AUDITORIUM, MIT

CHOMSKY is giving a TED Talk about American foreign policy in support of his recently published latest work, The Myth of American Idealism. Its the usual, but important, Empire Is Bad for the world shtick we have all come to love for its courage -- and loathe because we never do anything about what hes talking about. Critique porn. Self-abnegation as an art form. There is a Z Gen youngster in the crowd wearing a Che t-shirt being harassed by more hip baby boomers and he is finally dragged from the scene forcibly with little fanfare. When he tries to call out, one of the boomers walks up to him and knees him in the gongos and prevents him from crying out. Merchandise is being worn: caps, summer scarfs, purloining gloves, deep state sunglasses.CHOMSKY looks out as if at a freshly landed mob of aliens coming to see what all the hullabaloo was about.

CHOMSKY: Well, its getting late for the Empire. I was reading just yesterday that since the first inauguration of Donald Trump in 2017 the Doomsday Clock has gone from two-and-a-half minutes down to 89 seconds. Hes only been in office 6 months and we see he has thrown in the towel on climate mitigation. In fact, he and the fossil fuel industry are looking for new revenue streams up in the now-thawing tundra of the Arctic Circle. Trump has essentially threatened Putin with nuclear catastrophe, and his being in office at all, after being twice impeached and found guilty on 34 felony charges, tells us that democracy is at an end. The press goes back to hating him full time. Ineffectually.

HECKLER 1: It was an inside job! Say it Noam!

CHOMSKY: Last time Trump was in, it took a couple of years for catastrophe to hit in the form of Covid-19 that spread across an under-prepared America in 2020, a re-election year. Despite the total ineptitude of the president in dealing with the pandemic, he was nearly re-elected, close enough counts in five states to require recounts. Its a real question whether we will get through the second Trump term. What pandemic awaits us? This is absurd. Its getting late for the Empire.

HECKLER 2: Noam, tell us about how Trump lied about the pandemic origins.

CHOMSKY: Well, Im here today to talk about my new book that I wrote with Nathan Robinson, editor-in-chief of the left-wing progressive Current Affairs. Only time for a quick overview. Quick questions. Book signing.

HECKLER 4: (wearing a MAGA cap) Nathan Robinson is a loser.

CHOMSKY: The Empire is finished. The Idealism that was stoked and stirred to a roaring fire is now guttering, the embers dying. Lot of roar while it lasted. The roar of hegemony. But it was always little more than a Burning Man act that has now been diminished to a barrel fire along the tracks warming the hands of old hippies still smitten with the faith.

HECKLER 5: Aw, Jesus, why dont you say something about the origins of whats happening in Gaza. Jesus, Noam! Youre our public philosopher.

CHOMSKY: Empires come and go.

HECKLER 6: You go!

CHOMSKY: Sometimes they collapse from overextension. Sometimes from inbreeding. And we discover over time that the political class is full of inbreeding which decays the core over time until there is little left of virtue but apes in heat eating over-ripe bananas.

HECKLER 7: Youre the banana around here. (stand and wears a dramatic frown)

CHOMSKY: We are losing our religion, as the band says. China and Russia wont budge. We cant stop BRICS. War looks inevitable. Theres growing panic over the tariffs, which are little more than taxes on the American people who will pay them. Idealism looks banged up, like a Frank Gehry building.

HECKLER 8: Tell us about artificial general intelligence and how the elite are stealing it for themselves, Noam!

CHOMSKY: Well, AI surpassed most human intelligence decades ago. And I wouldnt be surprised if the twin lobes of the human mind soon fell in freefall.

HECKLER 9: Thats not funny Noam!

HECKLER 10: You suck, Chomsky!

HECKLER 11: Get him. Lets go, Joe!

Flotsam and jetsam fly through the sky, CHOMSKY ducks, eases his way off the stage.

CHOMSKY: Send your book to me and I will sign it for you.

HECKLER 12: Sign this! (a copy of his new book comes flying past his head)

The crowd turns on itself. Punches are thrown. Groans. Nut crackings. Half-nellies. Knuckle dustings. LGBTQA+ contingencies squirting water guns filled with aphrodisiac and LSD to quell the crown. CHOMSKY slips away.

cut to-

Image of the CBS 60 Minutes stopwatch ticking.

Fade out.

End.

#####



book cover Chomsky and Me

(Image by Bev Stohl) Details DMCA



Purchase at OR Books. Follow Bevs Reddit updates of Chomskys current status.

Episodes 1-4:

1. Chomsky: The SitCom Pilot: "Disjointed"

2. Chomsky: The SitCom: Episode 2: Mystery Guy

3. Chomsky: The Sitcom: Episode 3: Requiem for a Dream

4. Chomsky: The Sitcom: Episode 4: A Well-tempered Brecht
Quezon City, Philippines - August 5, 2025 - Ever been told "Don't travel, don't get married, don't even buy a phone this month"? Congratulations, you've 
Supporters of Chosen Inc. of Wisconsin ("Chosen"), a non-profit ministry dedicated to supporting foster and adoptive children and families, will enjoy exciting activity stations at 
MINNEAPOLIS - A Minneapolis-based technology firm is transforming how businesses monitor client relationships through advanced artificial intelligence. Xylo AI (https://xylo.ai) has introduced its Predictive Client 
A Josephine County family, including three children, died in what appears to be a murder-suicide, officials said.

Sheriffs deputies went to a house, west of Merlin, on Monday after receiving a report that a woman living there hadnt shown up for work. Deputies and state police entered the house and found the five people, who appeared to have been shot to death, Oregon State Police said Wednesday.

Hannah Marie Behee, 42, along with two boys, 11 and 9 years old, and a 7-year-old girl were all dead, with gunshot wounds, officials said. Police also found the body of the suspect in the killings, Chad Scott Behee, 40.

Property records show Chad and Marie Behee are co-owners of a property in the 200 block of Hussey Lane, where police said they found the bodies.

Court records indicate Chad Behee may have had a troubled youth.

At around age 17, he was living with guardians who were not his parents when he was was taken to a hospital for the fourth or fifth time cutting his wrist, one of the guardians wrote in a letter to the court in 2002.

That same year, Chad Behee left the guardians home and started to live at the Jackson Street Youth Shelter, according to court records.

 Fedor Zarkhin is a breaking news and enterprise reporter. Do you have a story? Reach him by phone or text at 971-373-2905 or by email at fzarkhin@oregonian.com.
With a significant presence in Bill Ackmans stock portfolio, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) secures a spot on our list of the Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (CMG) Announces Q2 Results

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) announced its Q2 results on July 23, 2025. Following the earnings release, Truist Securities reduced its price target on the company from $64 to $60 on July 27, maintaining a Buy rating. The analyst attributed the price revision to same-store sales (SSS) miss, a slight dip in earnings per share, and reduced SSS guidance. However, Truist remains optimistic as it expects traffic trends to improve in June and July, coupled with efficient cost management and a strong development pipeline, including 61 new restaurants.

For Q2, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) reported a 3% YoY increase in its revenue, taking it to $3.1 billion, thanks to new restaurant openings. Meanwhile, comparable restaurant sales fell 4.0% and transactions decreased by 4.9%. However, a modest 0.9% increase in average check size partially offset the sales decline. The company reported $436.1 million in net income, down from $455.7 million in Q2 2024. Rising steak and chicken costs, along with higher labor expenses, affected the companys margins.

Yet, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG)s digital sales remained steady at 35.5% of total revenue, while Chipotlane, its mobile order pick-up window concept, continues to enhance accessibility and profitability.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) operates fast-casual restaurants across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Bill Ackman has bought 21.54 million shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) as of Q1 2025.

While we acknowledge the potential of CMG 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: 12 Cheap Value Stocks to Buy Now According to Warren Buffett and 7 Best Potash Stocks to Buy According to Analysts.

Disclosure: None.
Ever since Portland International Airport unveiled an ambitious renovation last summer, accolades have been pouring in. Sources as varied as The Washington Post and the prestigious Prix Versailles, which honors international architecture, have heaped praise on such features as the terminals 392,000-square foot wood-beamed ceiling, with skylights that drench the travelers below in natural light.

These admiring accounts have also helped draw renewed attention is one of the airports more unexpected attractions, the Hollywood Theatre at Portland International Airport, a 22-seat, free microcinema located past security within Concourse C.

While the Hollywood Theatre, a historic movie house located in Northeast Portland, opened the airport microcinema in 2017, the PDX glow-up has been great for the Hollywood, its been great for local filmmakers, its been great for travelers, says Ted Hurliman, director of education & special projects for the Hollywood Theatre and Movie Madness.

According to the FlyPDX.com website, nearly 20 million passengers come through the airport each year.

Hurliman says that while the Hollywood doesnt have hard data about how many people visit the airport microcinema, considering the volume of airplane passengers who pass through PDX, he estimates its in the millions of travelers.

The attention that the PDX renovation project has been receiving has just upped everything, because now that airport is so beautiful, Hurliman says. Its known nationally.

The mission guiding the airport microcinema hasnt changed, Hurliman says. Travelers who may be stressed by their journeys can go into the theater, and its little bubble away from the maddening crowd. People that are in there actually enjoying movies, and on some level, I hope, its giving them a bit of relief from whatever theyre experiencing, whether they miss flights, or if they have long connections.

Hurliman makes programming choices by looking over submissions entered into Film Freeway, a website for filmmakers interested in entering film festivals and other events. A lot of times we will get submissions through specific partnerships, and a lot of different places, Hurliman says.

Our biggest stipulation is that the work needs to be G-rated, and suitable for viewers of all ages. We have strict standards about that, Hurliman says, as were part of the PDX airport art program, which the Port of Portland describes as an effort to provide a portal into the dynamic cultural life of our region and provide a showcase for Northwest expression. Exhibits at PDX feature the best of our areas painters, sculptors, photographers, illustrators, and other visual artists.

In addition, films must be created by a Pacific Northwest artist or feature issues relating to Oregon or the Pacific Northwest, as the Hollywood Theatre guidelines state.

Every quarter the programming mix is changed, but Hurliman says programs generally run about 60 minutes in total, with six to nine films, which all run on a loop, 24 hours a day.

I dont want to let something linger too long when we have all these films that I want to get out there and show travelers, Hurliman says.

Its hard to know exactly what sorts of films are most appealing, Hurliman says. Once we get a program started, I will go out there every so often and kind of make myself part of the shadows and just kind of listen to people, and see what they do. And to be fair, sometimes people come in and they sit down and they go to sleep. Its a nice, dark room, right?

On a recent Wednesday afternoon, Hurliman visited the microcinema. The program currently includes nine films, including such works as Make It Here, a documentary that features local film professionals and members of the film community talking about the benefits of working in Oregon; a documentary about an effort to clean up water supply in Malheur County; and a documentary, Blue Moon  Your First, Last Camera Store, about a business in Portland.

As the films played inside the darkened, cozy theater space, various travelers came in. Some, like a group of young men, sat down for a short time. Another man sat near the back and watched several films. A few families with young children poked their heads in to see what was on the screen.

Another pair of travelers sat and quietly watched a portion of the program, before eventually getting up and heading back out into the relatively glaring light of Concourse C.

Erika von Kampen and Veronica Ripley, who both live in Portland, were heading to their gate to take a flight to Las Vegas, to attend a technology convention.

They decided to stop in at the microcinema, von Kampen said, because theyd passed it before and were curious. We love this theater in Portland, von Kampen said, referring to the Hollywood Theatre.

Weve been to many shows there, Ripley said.

They both were impressed by the films at the microcinema, Ripley said. I like the attention to local businesses. Id love to see more of that at the airport.

The Make It Here short film definitely spotlighted local filmmaking resources and opportunities, von Kampen said.

I love overhearing people talk about a film that they like, Hurliman said. We try to keep it fairly diverse because in my mind, if youre at the airport, you could be a senior citizen whos been on a very long flight, you could be a 2-year-old whos been on a very long flight, or anywhere in between.

Hurliman says of the programming, Weve never had any complaints about of the films. So, Its been pretty consistently good.
Sun rays shine through tree leaves at Gabriel Park in Southwest Portland on Monday, June 9, 2025. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian

Oregons Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality advisory until 8 p.m. Tuesday for Portland, Multnomah County and Clackamas County.

Lea este articulo en espanol: Se emite aviso de calidad del aire para Portland, condados de Multnomah y Clackamas

Ozone pollution in Portland, Gresham, Oregon City, Mollala, Sandy, Government Camp and Multnomah Falls could reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, including children, pregnant people, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions, according to the advisory.

Smog can irritate the eyes, nose and lungs and contribute to breathing problems, the DEQ statement said. Health officials recommend people in sensitive groups limit outdoor activity during the advisory and reach a health care provider if symptoms worsen.

Ozone forms when hot temperatures and low winds combine with pollution from cars, gas-powered engines and chemicals in paints and aerosols, the statement said. These air pollutants react with sunlight and heat to produce ozone and haze.

Much of Northwest Oregon is under extreme heat warnings from the National Weather Service through Tuesday night. Temperatures are forecast to once again climb toward 100 degrees before cooling down Wednesday.

DEQ officials also urged people to reduce pollution by using public transit or carpooling, turning engines off when unnecessary, refueling gas tanks during cooler evening hours and postponing yard work that uses gas-powered equipment, paint or aerosol spray.

Ozone pollution increases throughout the day with exposure to sunlight, so pollution levels tend to be highest during afternoons and early evenings, the department statement said. Air quality monitors may show good air quality in the morning, then quickly jump to unhealthy levels later in the day.

Check current conditions on the departments Air Quality Index or the free OregonAIR app.

 Maddie Khaw covers breaking news, public safety and more for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach her at mkhaw@oregonian.com.
FILE - A canoe, bottom right, glides on Mendenhall Lake, in front of the Mendenhall Glacier, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Juneau, Alaska. AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File

Officials on Tuesday urged residents in some parts of Juneau to evacuate ahead of what could be a record surge of floodwater after a huge upstream basin of rainwater and snowmelt dammed by Alaskas Mendenhall Glacier started to release.

Officials in recent days have been warning people in the flood zone to be ready to evacuate. On Tuesday morning they confirmed water had started escaping the ice dam and flowing downstream, with flooding expected late Tuesday and on Wednesday. They advised people in the citys flood zone to leave while saying there was no need to rush.

The Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles from Juneau and is a popular tourist attraction due to its proximity to Alaskas capital city and easy access on walking trails. Homes on the citys outskirts are within miles of Mendenhall Lake, which sits below the glacier, and many front the Mendenhall River.

The water thats being released in the glacial outburst is flowing into the river, putting homes that are closest to the river at risk. The National Weather Service said it expected flooding to peak at 4 p.m. local time Wednesday.

This will be a new record, based on all of the information that we have, Nicole Ferrin, a weather service meteorologist, told a news conference Tuesday.

Flooding from the basin has become an annual concern, and in recent years has swept away houses and swamped hundreds of homes. Government agencies installed temporary barriers this year in hopes of protecting several hundred homes in the inundation area from widespread damage.

The thinning, retreating glacier in southeast Alaska acts as a dam for Suicide Basin, which fills each spring and summer with rainwater and snowmelt. The basin itself was left behind when a smaller glacier nearby retreated.

When the water in the basin builds up enough pressure, it forces its way under or around the ice dam, entering Mendenhall Lake and eventually the Mendenhall River, which runs along several neighborhoods in the part of Juneau.

Before the basin reached the limit of its capacity and began overtopping over the weekend, the water level was rising rapidly  as much as 4 feet per day during especially sunny or rainy days, according to the National Weather Service.

HESCO flood barriers, to protect property against glacial outburst flooding, separate a residential area from the Mendenhall River, Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025., in Juneau, Alaska. AP

The threat of so-called glacier outburst flooding has troubled parts of Juneau since 2011. In some years, there has been limited flooding of streets or properties near the lake or river.

But 2023 and 2024 marked successive years of record flooding, with the river last August cresting at 15.99 feet, about 1 foot over the prior record set a year earlier, and flooding extending farther into the Mendenhall Valley. This years flooding was predicted to crest at between 16.3 and 16.8 feet.

Last year, nearly 300 residences were damaged.

A large outburst can release some 15 billion gallons of water, according to the University of Alaska Southeast and Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center. Thats the equivalent of nearly 23,000 Olympic-size swimming pools. During last years flood, the flow rate in the rushing Mendenhall River was about half that of Niagara Falls, the researchers say.

City officials responded to concerns from property owners this year by working with state, federal and tribal entities to install a temporary levee along roughly 2.5 miles of riverbank in an attempt to guard against widespread flooding. The installation of about 10,000, four-foot tall barriers is intended to protect more than 460 properties from flood levels similar to last year, said Nate Rumsey, deputy director with the citys engineering and public works department.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is at the start of whats expected to be a yearslong process of studying conditions in the region and examining options for a more permanent solution. The timeline has angered some residents, who say its unreasonable.

Outburst floods are expected to continue as long as the Mendenhall Glacier acts as an ice dam to seal off the basin, which could span another 25 to 60 years, according to the university and science center researchers.

--By CEDAR ATTANASIO/The Associated Press

Associated Press writer Becky Bohrer in Juneau contributed to this report.
Group portrait of the seven officers of the Oregon Federation of Womens Clubs taken during the organizations 12th annual convention, held in Portland from Nov. 13-15, 1912. Standing in front, with her hands folded, is Sarah Evans, president of the Portland Womens Club and the state federation. The photo would have been taken just days after the Nov. 5, 1912 election that granted women in Oregon the right to vote. The vote came years before national suffrage for women was passed by Congress. Oregon Journal/Oregon Historical Society

The Portland Womans Club  one of the oldest still-operating clubs in the city  was founded as a place for women to advocate for their community and have a political voice at a time when they did not have the right to vote. During the womens suffrage era, and with noted activist Sarah A. Evans as president, the club had more than 500 members.

But today, membership has dwindled to just nine women.
A view of the bar at Higgins Restaurant. Chef and co-owner Greg Higgins writes that Portlanders welcome support for his business in recent weeks has given it new life, but downtown as a whole needs residents to keep frequenting its businesses and institutions. LC- The Oregonian

Greg Higgins

For The Oregonian/OregonLive

Higgins is chef and co-owner of Higgins restaurant. He lives in Portland.

From Powells Books to the Portland Art Museum, from coffee shops to concert halls, every visit Portlanders make to our citys businesses and institutions helps fuel our citys revival.

At Higgins, our restaurant is basking in a surge of support that we, and Portland itself, deeply need. Residents response to our recent plea for support and the energy they have brought is truly remarkable (Longtime downtown Portland restaurant calls for help  Were on the brink,July 12). The Cultural District around us is humming with more people on the sidewalks, and the surge in business means our suppliers - farmers trucking in their just-picked produce and fishermen arriving with fresh salmon and albacore  are also supported.

Portlanders actions have made a real difference, and were immensely grateful.

The past five years have been harrowing for all of us, and especially for small, independent businesses. Downtown has faced its share of hurdles  construction that makes it tough to get around, parking that isnt always easy and the loss of daily foot traffic as many office workers now log in from home. Too many beloved businesses have already closed their doors. The shops and restaurants that have managed to persevere through it all are hanging on by a thread, waiting for the return of the vibrant downtown that we all love.

And yet, we see reason for optimism. The most direct way residents can help is simple: come downtown and participate. Stop by a coffee shop, meet a friend for a beer after work, or plan a date night with cocktails and a show. Visit the Portland Art Museum or the Oregon Historical Society. Try that restaurant youve always meant to. For those who have been avoiding a place because it used to be crowded  well, it may not be as crowded now.

A healthy downtown is vital to the life of our city and our state. Its our cultural and civic heart, and Portland is investing in its future. New public plazas are under development. The long-awaited James Beard Public Market is scheduled to open in 2026. And new and renovated performing arts venues are on the horizon, as well. Now is the time to lay the groundwork for a thriving city core.

Living in a city means having access to experiences that enrich our lives in ways no single neighborhood can provideworldclass dining, independent shops, compelling theater, live music and diverse public art. When we stick close to home instead of venturing downtown, we miss out on the very things that make Portland the place we love.

The recovery of downtown isnt just about keeping businesses afloatits about preserving the spirit of Portland. Higgins, like so many of our neighbors, has poured decades of heart into creating a place where people gather, celebrate and connect with the beating heart of the city. Every visit counts. Every purchase matters. Every time our citys residents choose downtown, they help Portland reclaim its quirky, beautiful, spirited self.

The support from our community for Higgins has given our business new life. Lets keep it going. Come downtown. Be part of the story with us.
I was dismayed to learn of a pastors recent decision to revoke his offer of admission to a same-sex couple wanting to enroll their children at St. Agatha Catholic School in Southeast Portland. Days later, I was elated to see the response. Families supportive of the couple put up a lemonade stand where customers received drinks in rainbow-striped cups, and all proceeds went to Basic Rights Oregon, a nonprofit that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, (How a lemonade stand came to symbolize fight against LGBTQ+ bias at Portland Catholic school, Aug. 5).

As president of PFLAG Portland, the local chapter of a nonprofit with a 50-year history of supporting families and friends of LGBTQ+ adults and children, I welcomed this symbolic gesture. The event not only served as a rebuke to the pastor, but also as a vivid demonstration that being an ally means actively learning, advocating and speaking up for our LGBTQ+ loved ones.

In situations like these, there is always a choice to be made: Whether to include or to exclude. The same-sex couple, like many other non-Catholic parents whose children attend St. Agatha, applied for enrollment in good faith, presumably drawn by small class sizes and rigorous academic standards. Knowing the church does not perform same-sex marriage and considers such relationships a sin, the family only sought to be included. The pastor chose to exclude, citing church theology and the need for families to be able and willing to support the goals of Catholic education at the K-8 school.

I take pride in aligning myself with those individuals and institutions who choose to include  this time, and every time.

George Rede, Portland

Rede is president of the Portland Chapter of PFLAG

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
CHEHALIS, Wash.  Washington state Sen. John Braun announced Tuesday that he will run next year for the Republican nomination for the U.S. House seat held by Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

Braun, the Republican minority leader of the Democratic-controlled state Senate, will be vying for a competitive, conservative-leaning district in southwestern Washington that was carried by President Donald Trump last year.

Braun said in a statement issued by his campaign that he would work to secure borders and maintain national defense. The statement said Braun is the president of a family-owned manufacturer of emergency vehicles who served in the Navy for 31 years.

I know how to fight bad policy  and how to craft good policy that makes a difference for people here in Southwest Washington. I look forward to working with President Trump on a positive agenda that gets America back on the right track, he said.

Gluesenkamp Perez, an auto repair shop owner, flipped Washingtons largely rural 3rd Congressional District in 2022.

U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a Democrat from rural Skamania County, defeated Republican Joe Kent to secure a second term in Congress. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez campaign

The six-term Republican who previously held the seat, Jaime Herrera Beutler, did not make it out of the primary that year. Right-wing constituents angry about her vote to impeach Trump instead cast their lot with Joe Kent, a former Army special operations soldier who promoted Trumps lie that the 2020 election was stolen and touted conspiracy theories about the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol.

Gluesenkamp Perez beat Kent by less than a percentage point in 2022. Heading into a rematch with Kent last fall, she was considered one of the most vulnerable members of Congress but won reelection by nearly 4 points.

Gluesenkamp Perez has described political polarization as destructive to democracy and used a nuts-and-bolts approach to governing.

Some progressives in her district have said she has not pushed back hard enough against Trumps second presidency. But some consultants say her approach could help boost her support among independents and moderate Republicans.

Federal elections filings show that Democrat Brent Hennrich, a former movie theater operations manager who has dismissed Gluesenkamp Perezs moderation as the wrong approach, and Republican businessman Antony Barran are also running for the seat.

--The Associated Press
A boarded-up fourplex on Northeast 24th Avenue near Broadway is shown here in August 2025. Zane Sparling/The Oregonian

The owners of a rental home on the wrong end of a sharp curve are suing the city of Portland and a gas company for $1.2 million  claiming both entities have failed to prevent fiery crashes.

Jason and Jessica Parks, of Burien, Washington, say city officials gave their fourplex on Northeast 24th Avenue near Broadway an unofficial nickname  Crash House  due to the number of drivers who have failed to navigate the uncontrolled left turn.

Motorists often approach on Northeast Weidler Street, an eastbound one-way street in that area. Drivers are supposed to navigate a 90-degree turn onto 24th Avenue without stopping, according to the lawsuit, but some speeders jump the bend and careen into the home.

The Parks have asked for additional barriers and signs, but the city didnt make any significant changes before Dec. 24, 2024, when a driver hopped the curb and struck the gas main, rupturing the line and triggering a fiery explosion, per the suit.

A car crashed into the front of a home in the Sullivan Gulch neighborhood Christmas Eve, 2024. Portland Fire & Rescue

This is an awkward intersection for drivers who are not familiar with the street, according to the lawsuit, which was filed July 22 in Multnomah County Circuit Court.

Attorneys for Northwest Natural, which operates the gas main, and the city of Portland, declined to comment. The Parks attorney was unavailable to comment.

The suit faults both Portland and Northwest Natural for allegedly failing to improve the roadway by installing sturdier bollards. The couple lost $50,000 in rental income and spent $838,000 on reconstruction, the litigation claims, and are seeking further compensation for stress and loss of resale value.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation is hardly unaware of the tricky curve.

A repaving and safety improvement project launched earlier this year is reducing the numbers of lanes on Northeast Weidler from two to one, adding several crosswalks and lowering the speed limit to 25 mph.

The project is also adding parking, as drivers naturally slow down on narrower streets, and placing boulders and reflective signs in front of the Parks home.

A transportation bureau spokesperson said safety improvements were budgeted at $75,000, not including paving costs.

Zane Sparling covers breaking news and courts for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-319-7083, zsparling@oregonian.com or @pdxzane.
If it's been too hot to get outside early this week, Wednesday will bring some relief with sunny skies and a high of about 86 degrees. Oregonian file photo. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian

A new weather system dropping down from western Canada will give Portland the heat relief it needs Wednesday dropping high temps about 13 degrees from Tuesdays (unofficial) high of 99.6.

The National Weather Service says onshore flow will strengthen Wednesday and high pressure will break down bringing a deeper marine cloud cover to the coast and cooler temps inland.

Portland wont see many clouds Wednesday, but the high temperature will likely hit about 86 degrees. Winds may be breezy at times gusting to about 18 mph.

Clouds increase overnight as a new upper-level trough moves in from the Gulf of Alaska. Onshore flow will be even stronger with this system and Portland will see clouds to start, and rain before the work week is done.

Thursday will start out cloudy and clear to partly sunny by the afternoon. The high temp will reach near 81 degrees.

Theres a 50% chance of rain overnight and into Friday.

The next in this series of fronts pushes into the valleys Friday morning giving Portland a 60% chance of rain and winds gusting to 20 mph at times. The high temp will fall well below seasonal averages at about 74 degrees.

Saturday will start with rain through the lunch hour, then taper off to showers during the afternoon. The high temp will reach about 76 degrees.

The weather service says the chances of collecting rain amounts of a half inch or greater from 5 a.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Sunday are at about 70-90% from Salem northward. Southern parts of the Willamette Valley have a 40-60% chance of collecting up the same amount.

Extended forecasts see rain moving out by Sunday, but high temps should stay fairly cool in the upper 70s through the end of the weekend.
In rock we trust, in soil we grow is the official motto of Rock & Soil wines. Kiss lead guitarist Tommy Thayer brings the rock. Mike and Kristy Thayer, Tommys brother and sister-in-law, deliver the soil. Their collective effort to connect music and land is a hit.

Tommy credits Kristy and Mike, who own Petes Mountain Vineyard & Winery in West Linn, with getting him into wine in the first place.

Kristy and Mike Thayer have been growing grapes on Petes Mountain since 2000, and making their own wines since 2005. Inspired by their success, Thayer purchased six acres of chardonnay and pinot noir vines from Kristy and Mike in 2019.

Tommys Block sits immediately to the left of the main road leading up to Petes Mountains tasting room. It has his name on it, but Tommy said he still considers his block as part of the Petes Mountain mothership.

Tommy Thayers first wine love wasnt, as you might think, pinot noir or chardonnay. He was first hooked by sauvignon blanc.

So naturally, his first official commercial wine was the 2021 Petes Mountain Vineyard Tommys Reserve Sauvignon Blanc. The wine was made by veteran Willamette Valley winemakers Laurent Montalieu and Anne Sery, who also collaborate on Petes Mountain wines.

As the pinot noir and chardonnay vines in Tommys Block started producing fruit, Thayer said that he was eager to create a separate brand from Petes Mountain that he could really sink my teeth into.

The first task was naming the new wine. Mike drew up a list of 15 possibilities. There was one name where I thought this is it, and fortunately, Rock & Soil was Mikes favorite as well, Thayer said.

The 2023 Rock & Soil Reserve Pinot Noir and 2023 Reserve Chardonnay sell for $55 and $45, respectively. Both wines are excellent; this is no vacuous vanity project. Rock & Soil wines are made with intention by a family focused on making quality small batch, single-vineyard wines.

An example of that intention: Rock & Soils fruit comes from a Low Input Viticulture and Enology (LIVE) certified, dry farmed vineyard. This is true of Petes Mountain fruit, as well. We are proud to be Oregonians, and as such, it is important to us to farm sustainably and be good stewards of the land, Mike Thayer said.

For now, the one place you can buy the Rock & Soil wines is through Petes Mountain Vineyard & Winery, either in-person or through their website.

That wont always be the case, however. The Thayers are currently ramping up efforts to get Rock & Soil out in the marketplace. Tommy and Kiss are the calling cards that I think will help us sell the wine outside of Oregon, Mike Thayer said.

The fact that the Thayers are involved in farming will come as no surprise to anyone who knew them as kids. Tommy, Mike, two other brothers and a sister, grew up on a six-acre farm in Beaverton that had horses, sheep, dogs, cats, an orchard and even some table grape vines. We also had a lot of motorcycles, which drove the neighbors crazy, Tommy said.

Tommy and Mikes father is the late Gen. James Thayer, a decorated World War II veteran who helped liberate the Gunskirchen Nazi death camp in May 1945. Later in life, Thayer was well known for his philanthropic and community work and for founding J. Thayer Company, a local office supply business now owned by his son, John Thayer.

James Thayers wife, Patricia, who preceded him in death, was an accomplished watercolor artist who played the violin and piano. Mike said that she woke them in the morning by playing the Sunrise Symphony over the home intercom system. Patricia also helped Tommy purchase his first electric guitar.

Thayers music career, however, did not begin with that guitar. Tommys first gig was playing the saxophone in his grade school band. By the time was 13, Tommys interest in rock bands got him interested in the guitar. My mom said she would help me pay for my first electric guitar if I agreed to keep playing the saxophone in the school band through my senior year at Sunset High School, Thayer said.

Both parties lived up to their end of the bargain, and Tommy ended up with a blue 1974 Fender Mustang, complete with a competition racing stripe. Unfortunately, Thayer no longer has the guitar. After two good years of use, he traded it in for an upgrade, likely with Kelly Howards Apple Music Co. in downtown Portland.

Thayer would like to find his old guitar. Its a long shot, but If you know of the whereabouts of his beloved Fender Mustang, send me an email and I will pass the information along.

For Kiss Army members wondering what has become of the band after their End of the Road World Tour concluded in December 2023, rest easy.

Thayer said that while they are no longer touring in the traditional sense, they are still functioning as a band. In addition to their highly publicized avatar concerts, Kiss will be doing one-offs such as Kiss Kruise: Landlocked in Las Vegas, Nov. 14-16, 2025, at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

The band also will be awarded the Kennedy Center Honors later this year.

With the band giving up the touring grind, Thayer said he will have more time to focus on Rock & Soil, personal music projects and Thayer Family Foundation work that assists Oregon veterans and their families.

Thayers new music projects involve writing songs and recording with Dan Reed of Dan Reed Network fame, and former Black & Blue bandmate, Jaime St. James. Theres a good chance that a bottle of Rock & Soil wine was cracked at some point in the creative process.

Heres a hot tip: all of Thayers worlds collide at the Waverley Country Club this Friday, Aug. 15, beginning at 6 p.m. Rockin on the River is a Thayer Family Foundation event aimed at raising funds for shelter, housing and support services for local veterans in need.

Rockin on the River features a dinner served with Thayer family wines, a live auction and a performance by Tommy Thayer & Friends. Those friends include Danny Seraphine, the original drummer and founding member of Chicago, Dan Reed and fellow Sunset High School Apollo Todd Jensen, Journeys bass player.

Tickets for the event are $3,000 per couple, or $5,000 per couple for a ticket that includes a VIP reception. A table of up to 10 guests is $25,000.

For more information, contact the foundation at info@thayerfamilyfoundation.org.

rocksoil.net

-- Michael Alberty writes about wine for The Oregonian/OregonLive and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. He can be reached at malberty0@gmail.com. To read more of his coverage, go to oregonlive.com/wine
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank) has entered into a strategic partnership with OpenAI to explore cutting edge generative AI-enabled banking services for customers.

This collaboration aims to enhance AI solutions for both customers and employees over a multi-year period.

As part of this initiative, CommBank will become OpenAI's designated banking partner in Australia.

Engineers from both organisations will collaborate to investigate generative AI technologies, focusing on improving the detection of scams and fraud while also providing more tailored services to CommBank's clientele.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said: CommBank is one of Australias largest institutions, serving millions of people and businesses every day.

Were excited to work together to put advanced AI into the hands of more Australians, making it more useful and impactful for people and businesses across the country.

In addition, CommBank employees will gradually gain access to OpenAIs advanced AI resources, including the enterprise version of ChatGPT.

The bank is also committing to extensive training and upskilling programmes to bolster AI capabilities and ensure the responsible application of AI throughout its workforce.

Commonwealth Bank CEO Matt Comyn said: To be globally competitive, Australia must embrace this new era of rapid technological change.

Our strategic partnership with OpenAI reflects our commitment to bringing world class capabilities to Australia, and exploring how AI can enhance customer experiences, better protect our customers, and unlock new opportunities for Australian businesses.

Recently, CommBank introduced two initiatives to enhance customer protection against scams.

The initiatives include a Generative AI scam detection tool integrated into the Truyu app and an improved security feature within in the CommBank app for easier online card transaction verification.

"CommBank partners with OpenAI on generative AI-enabled banking services" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Norman City Council discussed replacing the peeping toms city ordinance with a state statute and declared the Ward 5 seat vacant at its Tuesday meetings.

Declaring Ward 5 seat vacant

The news: Council declared the Ward 5 seat vacant following Ward 5 Councilmember Michael Nashs resignation in a Facebook post Friday.

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In the announcement, Nash wrote external factors caused his family to look for a new home, which they found outside Ward 5 boundaries.

Our familys outgrowing the house were in now, Nash wrote. We found a house that is gonna be just right for us. Unfortunately, its not gonna be in Ward 5.

Nash wrote in the post he believes it would not be fair to represent Ward 5 if he cannot give residents his undivided attention.

The next couple of months moving will demand all that I have, Nash wrote. That is why, to great sadness and grief, I am announcing my resignation from the Ward 5 Council seat.

According to a staff report, a vacancy will be filled by a majority vote of the remaining council members. If council does not fill that seat within 60 days, a mandatory special election will be called to fill the vacancy.

Mayor Stephen Tyler Holman told OU Daily Monday that council will likely create a committee composed of Ward 5 residents to interview applicants and make an appointment recommendation. Ward 5 residents interested in filling Nashs seat would apply at city hall and be interviewed by the committee, which would make a final recommendation to council.

What theyre saying: Nash said he considered staying in the Ward 5 seat until a replacement was found.

One of the things Ive been saying since the beginning is that the only thing worse than no representation is the illusion of representation, Nash said.

NO PAYWALL, NONPARTISAN Students pay about $14 in fees that support the Daily. If you're not a student, please join those invested in OU and Norman who have given more than $125,000 in recent years to support our independent journalism. SUPPORT OUR LOCAL JOURNALISM

Nash said his resignation is an opportunity for members of the public who do not want to go through the campaign process. He said he would not have been a council member if it werent for former Ward 5 Councilmember Sereta Wilson, who resigned in 2020.

It is bittersweet. Its going to be a little difficult to pivot and try to tell myself not to pay as much attention anymore, Nash said. Once you get hooked into city politics, its hard to get off of it.

Nash left the meeting after his final remarks. Holman said once a replacement has been chosen, council will formally recognize Nash for his service.

Peeping toms statute

The news: Council discussed eliminating the peeping toms city ordinance to mirror the 2024 state statute for filing charges at its conference meeting.

According to the agenda, the city ordinance on peeping toms does not outline a punishment for offenders, while the state statute does.

The state statute reads that people who loiter in the vicinity of a private residence with the intent to watch any person in a clandestine manner, will be convicted of a misdemeanor and be punished by imprisonment in the county jail for no more than one year, a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both.

People who use photo or video equipment will also be charged with a felony or misdemeanor, a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both, the statute reads.

What theyre saying: City Attorney Rick Knighton said the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation keeps court records for the state. However, Knighton said the only municipal court records that are kept by the OSBI are those where the person is arrested and fingerprinted.

Ward 4 Councilmember Helen Grant asked what the course of action is for juvenile offenders. Deputy Chief Ricky Jackson said, in his experience with the district attorneys office, juveniles will be worked with to keep them out of the prison system.

This story was edited by Ana Barboza.
Editor's note: This story was updated at 10:13 p.m. Aug. 12 to add a statement from Belinda Biscoe and Milos Savic.

James Pappas, former vice president of Outreach and dean of OUs College of Liberal Studies, now called the College of Professional and Continuing Studies, died at 86 on Aug. 2.

Pappas earned his bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Utah, masters degree in counseling psychology from the University of Ohio and a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Purdue University before returning to the University of Utah where he worked for 20 years.

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Pappas held several roles during his tenure at the University of Utah including professor, associate director of the counseling center, director of academic advising, associate dean of general education and associate dean of continuing education.

In 1987, Pappas accepted a position as vice provost of continuing education and public service at OU. Pappas worked at OU for 30 years in various roles, retiring as vice president of Outreach and dean of the College of Liberal Studies, which is now called the College of Professional and Continuing Studies.

As vice president of Outreach, Pappas helped manage state and federal grants, tripling the amount of grant funding received, according to a press release announcing his retirement. Pappas retired in 2016, making him the longest serving dean in OU history.

According to his obituary, enrollment in the College of Liberal Studies increased by 500% during his tenure as dean and rose to be ranked the third best program in the country. Pappas also developed five new degree programs and moved the college into its own building. His administration also helped re-establish the aviation program at OU, which is now ranked the nations top aviation program.

Pappas served as the president of the University Professional Continuing Education Association and the Association for Graduate Liberal Studies Programs. He also served as an officer for the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities, the Association of Continuing Higher Education, the Association of Academic Administrators and the American Association of Counseling and Development, formerly the American Personnel and Guidance Association.

Pappas was also involved in local affairs, including his time as chair of the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Norman Arts and Humanities, now known as the Norman Arts Council. He also served on the Norman Economic Development Coalition, the Red Cross board and OU United Way Campaign.

Pappas received many awards and recognitions, including being inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame in 2008 and the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame, where he would later serve as executive director.

In 2018, OU dedicated an administrative building to the former dean, naming it the James P. Pappas Administration Building.

NO PAYWALL, NONPARTISAN Students pay about $14 in fees that support the Daily. If you're not a student, please join those invested in OU and Norman who have given more than $125,000 in recent years to support our independent journalism. SUPPORT OUR LOCAL JOURNALISM

OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. wrote in a statement Friday that it was an honor to work alongside Pappas during his tenure at the university.

His visionary leadership helped transform OUs outreach and online learning efforts, impacting thousands across the globe, Harroz wrote. We are deeply grateful for the legacy he leaves: one defined by purpose, compassion and a belief in the power of education to change lives.

Kelly Damphousse, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, wrote in a post on X Friday that he was honored to be one of Pappas fellow deans at OU.

I have had a lot of people mentor me over the years, but few had the kind of impact that (James) Pappas had on me, Damphousse wrote. He was the quintessential higher education entrepreneur and innovator.

Belinda Biscoe, senior associate vice president for University Outreach, wrote in an email to OU Daily Tuesday that Pappas work was more than a career.

It was a calling to open doors, create opportunities and transform lives, Biscoe wrote. He showed us that education is not just about knowledge, it is about dignity, hope and the courage to dream.

Milos Savic, dean of the College of Professional and Continuing Studies, wrote in an email to OU Daily Tuesday that Pappas helped move the college into the 21st century.

Pappas moved the college into the 21st century, focusing on students for whom, because of their families, jobs, and situations, needed to have an online space for an OU education, Savic wrote. I am honored to be in the same position as Dr. Pappas once had, and I hope to leave a fraction of the impact that he provided for the OU community.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the James P. Pappas scholarship fund at the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame.

This story was edited by Ana Barboza and Natalie Armour.
Corn price action is up 2 to 2 1.4 cents so far on Wednesday morning. Futures fell lower on Tuesday as USDA added more than 1 billion bushels to the balance sheet. Contracts closed with losses of 12 to 13  cents. Preliminary open interest saw some rolling out of the September contract (-49,472), with December up 38,017 contracts. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was down 13 1/4 cents at $3.54 1/4.

USDA reported a private export sale on Tuesday morning of 315,488 MT of corn to Mexico, with 20,830 MT for old crop and 294,658 MT for 2025/26.

More News from Barchart

Tuesdays USDA Crop Production report showed the national corn yield at 188.8 bpa, which was above the trade ideas of 184.3. Production was pegged at 16.742 billion bushels, up 1.037 bbu from last months WASDE total. Acreage was a big reason as a surprising 2.1 million planted acres were added this month to 97.3 million acres. FSA certified acres were tallied at 96.52 million acres

Via the WASDE, old crop corn stocks were pegged at 1.305 bbu, down 35 mbu from last month, as exports were raised by 70 mby, with corn used in ethanol trimmed back. With the production changes, new crop was up 457 mbu to 2.117 bbu. World stocks for the 2025/26 marketing year were 10.46 MMT higher to 282.54 MMT. Old crop production for Brazil was unchanged at 132 MMT.

Several overnight tenders by South Korean importers showed purchases total 266,000 MT. ANEC estimates the August corn export total for Brazil at 7.97 MMT, a 0.39 MMT increase from their previous number and would be 1.9 MMT above the same month last year.

Sep 25 Corn closed at $3.71 1/2, down 13 1/2 cents, currently up 2 1/2 cents

Nearby Cash was $3.54 1/4, down 13 1/4 cents,

Dec 25 Corn closed at $3.94 1/2, down 13 1/4 cents, currently up 2 1/4 cents

Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.12 1/4, down 13 cents, currently up 2 1/2 cents

New Crop Cash was $3.51 5/8, down 13 3/4 cents,

On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder 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
The Kirkniemi Mill in Finland has three paper machines with the combined capacity to produce 750,000 tons per year of coated paper. The Kirkniemi Mill in Finland has three paper machines with the combined capacity to produce 750,000 tons per year of coated paper.

Sappi Europe Announces Potential Closure of Coated Paper Machine at Kirkniemi Mill in Finland

Aug. 12, 2025 - Sappi Europe today announced the initiation of a consultation process at its Kirkniemi Mill in Finland as part of a proposed asset restructure. This step is being taken in response to a structural decline in demand across Europe and sustained financial challenges. The proposed changes are intended to ensure long term competitiveness in the Graphic Paper Market and align production capacity with changing market dynamics and customer needs.

As a result, Sappi Europe has today announced the potential closure of Paper Machine 2 at its Kirkniemi Mill in Lohja, Finland. If implemented, this step would reduce the mill's annual capacity of coated magazine paper by 175,000 tonnes.

The proposed asset closure is part of Sappi's strategy to align capacity with market demand and improve operational efficiency with paper machines 1 and 3 remaining in operation. The process would be carefully managed to ensure continuity of supply with no disruption to customers.

Marco Eikelenboom, CEO of Sappi Europe, said, "This proposed step reflects the broader changes in our market environment and supports our ongoing commitment to improving efficiency, sustainability, and long-term competitiveness across our European operations."

The Kirkniemi Mill has three paper machines with the combined capacity to produce 750,000 tons per year of coated paper for heatset web offset printing serving mainly the high-volume print market. Kirkniemi Mill also produces 300,000 tons per year of bleached mechanical pulp for its own consumption. More than 90% of the mill's paper production is exported. The mill employs about 550 people.

The consultation process may affect up to 100 positions at the Kirkniemi Mill. Sappi remains committed to supporting employees throughout this process in accordance with Finnish legislation and will work closely with employee representatives to find appropriate solutions.

Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, Sappi Europe is the leading European producer of coated graphic paper as well as packaging and speciality papers.

SOURCE: Sappi Europe
Google Gemini continues to push the limits of what it knows about you. On Wednesday, Googles big initiative was a way to stop Gemini from learning more about you, while notifying users that content you share with it may be used as a foundation for chats with other users.

In the coming weeks, your Gemini Apps Activity setting will be renamed Keep Activity,' Google said in a blog post. When this setting is on, a sample of your future uploads will be used to help improve Google services for everyone.

Today, Google is allowing Gemini to remember what it knows about you, and this behavior is on by default. When this setting is on, Gemini remembers key details and preferences youve shared, leading to more natural and relevant conversations, as if youre collaborating with a partner whos already up to speed, Google said.

The idea is all about context: The more Google knows about you, the better Gemini can be in making recommendations. Google  and frankly, most internet services  have used this argument for years, as a way of pulling more data from you and the services you use, and building an online profile that can be used to serve ads. In an example, Google said Gemini could be used to brainstorm ideas for a YouTube channel based on Japanese culture, suggesting new ideas based on what it knows about your preferences and what youve previously asked Google about.

For now, this personal context will only be available in the 2.5 Pro model, with it being added to the default 2.5 Flash model in the coming weeks, Google said.

Incognito Mode for Gemini = Temporary Chats

So what happens if you dont want Gemini to store your weird fondness for Labubus? You can turn off this feature by going to Settings in the Gemini app and selecting Personal context, then Your past chats with Gemini, and turning the feature off.

Google

If you want Google to be able to know you, however  but have an embarassing or otherwise personal conversation youd rather Gemini forget about  Google has also launched whats known as Temporary Chat.

Its pretty easy to equate a Temporary Chat with the current Incognito Mode in Google Chrome. The chat wont appear in your list of recent chats or Google Apps activity, and wont be used to personalize your Gemini experience or train Googles AI models. Google does retain a temporary chat, but only for 72 hours so that you can exhaust all of your questions.

Your uploads may be mined to help Google

Googles declaration that it will use your uploads to improve Google services for other users is more concerning. Specifically, files and photos uploaded to Gemini will be used to help improve Google services, and its not clear what this means. Again, the setting is on by default, meaning that youll have to turn the setting off by going to the Settings & help gear icon, then Activity, and then either turning off the feature or turning it off and deleting it.

Google doesnt have any problem taking photos and files you upload to enhance Google services, but wont use any audio (speech) that you provide to do so. That setting is off by default. But Google is also rolling out an update that will save Gemini Live recordings, plus video and/or screenshots, in your history. Google now calls this Gemini Apps Activity, but its renaming it to Keep Activity instead. (This has nothing to do with Google Keep, presumably.)

Google may see this transparency as a way to assist consumers who want to manage this privacy, but the renaming and default behavior isnt exactly straightforward. Perhaps the biggest takeaway is the simplest: The easiest way not to risk Google inadvertently sharing or learning things about you  your insurance plan, your retirement options, your will  is not to share it with Gemini in the first place. Google may have founded its business on the slogan Dont be evil, but Gemini is getting a little sinister, regardless.
By Paul Walsh, (Minneapolis) Star Tribune (TNS)

Former Minnesota Republican operative Anton Tony Lazzaro is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review his trafficking conviction for paying five 15- to 16-year-old girls for sex.

Lazzaro, 34, was sentenced in August 2023 to 21 years in federal prison and is being held at the Sandstone Federal Correctional Institution with an August 2039 release date.

The U.S. Supreme Court last week notified the U.S. Court of Appeals of Lazzaros petition to have his case heard by the nations highest bench. Lazzaro lost his effort in February to have the appeals court overturn his conviction.

In his petition, Lazzaro argues that the conduct alleged to be criminal consisted of little more than dating 16- and 17-year-old females.

He goes on to post the question, Does a person who engages in otherwise lawful, consensual sex with a 16- or 17-year-old dating partner commit sex-trafficking if the person gives unconditional gifts to the date?

Anton Lazzaro of Minnesota was convicted of sex-trafficking minors. (Carlos Gonzalez/Minneapolis Star Tribune/TNS, file) TNS

The petition contends the law is vague when it comes to what kind of items of monetary value can be exchanged in a sexual relationship.

Does the gift of a Prada purse or an iPhone turn an ordinary, voluntary sex act into a commercial sex act? the filing continues. What about lunch at a Chipotle restaurant?

The day before he was scheduled to be sentenced, and more than four months after the jury returned its verdict, Lazzaro filed a motion with the appeals court for a new trial, asserting that the jurors had been dishonest when answering questions during the selection process. He contended that one juror failed to disclose family members who were victims of sexual assault and worked for sexual assault advocacy organizations, while another juror was a supporter of the #MeToo movement.

Lazzaro also alleged without success that the prosecution had engaged in prosecutorial misconduct by misrepresenting the actual context of the communications surrounding a photograph he sent to convicted co-defendant Gisela Castro Medina and her female friend.

Even before Lazzaro went on trial, he wrote to Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz that he was being selectively prosecuted by the government. He claimed his was the only one at the time among hundreds of commercial sex trafficking cases in recent years in Minnesota to be pursued in federal court and not in state court, where the potential sentence is far less severe.

Lazzaro maintained the sexual acts were consensual, but Schiltz said the premise of the federal sex trafficking statute is that children under the age of 18 are incapable of consenting to being sex trafficked.

Lazzaro faces long odds that the nations highest court will hear his case. According to the National Association of Attorneys General, the Supreme Court grants an astonishingly small percentage of what are formally known as writs of certiorari.

Lazzaros 2021 arrest proved an embarrassment for the Minnesota Republican Party, for which he had become a major donor. Jennifer Carnahan, who had close ties to Lazzaro but denied any knowledge of his criminal activities, stepped down as state GOP chair a week after his arrest.

In handing down the sentence, Schiltz recounted how Lazzaro sought out emotionally vulnerable girls  physically small, unsophisticated and alienated  and lured them with expensive gifts such as a $1,300 Prada purse. He sometimes sent them photos showing his wealth and connections to famous and powerful people, and impressed them with the private elevator that took them to his floor.

Schiltz also noted that Lazzaro gave the girls an especially potent liquor to get them as drunk as possible. Some got so drunk, the judge said, they could not control their bodies, much less exercise good judgment.

Two women are suing the onetime operators of the luxury downtown Minneapolis hotel and condo building alleging its staff were integral in accommodating Lazzaros repeated sex trafficking when they were teenagers.
Watch this, a York man told his stepfather Tuesday morning before trying to shoot and kill him during an argument at their home, police said.

Antonio Steele, 29, was charged Tuesday with attempted murder after the shooting on the 400 block of West Princess Street.

York City police said they were sent to a domestic violence call at a home at 7:55 a.m.

A man told police he and Steele, his stepson, started arguing when Steele told him he was too stupid to know how to fill out a check, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

Court documents said the argument turned physical when Steele took the check from his stepfather.

Steele went into a house, returned with a silver semi-automatic pistol and fired it once at the man from the front door as he tried to run away, according to the affidavit.

Police said they found a spent shell casing on the sofa right inside the front door and the bullet on the stairs after it ricocheted off a wall.

Steele fled the scene afterward, police said.

Court documents said Steeles stepfather was shaken up [and] yelling with pressurized speech when police arrived.

I just got shot at! he said when police asked if he was OK, according to the affidavit.

Court records show Steele was unable to legally carry a gun because of prior felony convictions.

In addition to attempted murder, Steele was charged on Tuesday with aggravated and simple assault, as well as harassment, prohibited possession of a firearm and recklessly endangering another person.

Steele has not been arraigned on the charges as of publication.
Set your clocks for setting your clocks back, so to speak (try wrapping your head around that sentence). (Getty Images) Getty Images

August is just about halfway through (craziness). The sun is setting noticeably earlier. And even though the temperatures are rising once more, there seems to be  dare we say  an autumnal vibe to the air (or maybe thats all the Halloween stuff thats already being advertised).

You know what that means  PennLives annual reminder of when daylight saving time ends this year.

According to TimeAndDate.com, daylight saving time 2025 will come to an end on Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2 a.m. Clocks will fall back during this time, meaning people will get an hours more shuteye.

The Old Farmers Almanac explains that daylight saving time was first pioneered by an Englishman named William Willet, who believed it could make the best productive use of the suns light while saving on electricity costs. The idea eventually caught steam in World War I, and here we are.

Everyone appreciates the long, light evenings, wrote Willet in his manifesto The Waste of Daylight (1907). Everyone laments their shrinkage as the days grow shorter, and nearly everyone has given utterance to a regret that the nearly clear, bright light of an early morning during Spring and Summer months is so seldom seen or used

That so many as 210 hours of daylight are, to all intents and purposes, wasted every year is a defect in our civilization. Let England recognize and remedy it.

However, theres been a continual push to get rid of the biannual practice due to the possible health effects and dangers it wraughts: USA Today reports how in 2022 what was known as the Sunshine Protection Act  a measure that would make daylight saving time permanent  was unanimously approved by the Senate only to die in the House. A new iteration of the bill was introduced to the Senate in January.

As for Pennsylvania specifically, the PA Senate Republicans website explains how the state Senate approved to end daylight saving time in March. Further action on the bill remains pending as of the publishing of this report.

There have always been disagreements about whether we should follow daylight saving time or standard time permanently, said the bills sponsor Sen. Scott Martin (R-13). That has prevented movement on this issue at the federal level.

For me, the most important thing is ending the practice of changing the clocks twice a year and all the negative consequences that come with it.

For now, clocks will still be falling back on Nov. 2.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Berlin Wednesday for talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and virtual meetings with other European and U.S. leaders ahead of the Friday summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

European and Ukrainian leaders want to be heard before Trump sees Putin in Alaska because they havent been invited.

Wednesday, Zelenskyy was due to meet with the Europeans first and then have a call with Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Leaders of the coalition of the willing  the nations that would help police any future peace agreement  will take place last.

I told the President of the United States and all our European colleagues, Putin is bluffing, the Ukrainian president said.

Russia is trying to portray itself as capable of occupying the whole of Ukraine. This is undoubtedly their desire. Putin is also bluffing, pretending that sanctions are not important to him and that they are not working. In reality, the sanctions are very helpful and are hitting the Russian military economy hard, Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (AP Photo/Pascal Bastien, 2025) AP

Yes, it is true that Russia has several times more weapons, including three times more artillery. But Russia also has three times more losses. And that is a fact.

I told my colleagues and the President of the United States of America, our European friends, that Putin definitely does not want peace. He wants to occupy our country, and we all understand that very well. Putin cannot fool anyone, Zelenskyy said.

Putin and North Koreas Kim Jong Un discussed their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine as well, according to their state news agencies.

Putin also shared with Kim information about his talks with Trump scheduled for Friday in Alaska, TASS reported, citing the Kremlin.

There is hope of movement toward peace in Ukraine, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said, but if there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and the Europeans should and must increase the pressure on Moscow.
By Jeremy Redmon, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (TNS)

ATLANTA  Military prosecutors on Tuesday announced attempted premeditated murder charges against the 28-year-old sergeant accused of shooting five fellow soldiers at Georgias Fort Stewart last week.

Sgt. Quornelius S. Radford, of Jacksonville, is also facing charges of attempted unpremeditated murder, domestic violence, aggravated assault inflicting grievous bodily harm, and aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon, according to the U.S. Army Office of Special Trial Counsel.

Sgt. Quornelius Radford, a suspect in the shooting of five soldiers at Fort Stewart, is escorted by military police into a booking room at the Liberty County Jail in Hinesville, Ga., Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Lewis M. Levine, file) AP

The office did not identify what penalties those charges carry, though it accused Radford of shooting at a sixth soldier assigned to the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team.

Radfords military defense attorneys did not immediately respond to requests for comments Tuesday afternoon.

A judge advocate will be assigned to conduct Radfords preliminary hearing, review evidence, determine if there is probable cause for each charge, and issue a report.

Army prosecutors will consider that report along with the evidence to determine whether to refer the charges to a general court-martial. If the charges are referred, the case will be assigned to a military judge, who will schedule an arraignment and trial date.

Radford is an automated logistics sergeant assigned to the 3rd Infantry Divisions 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team. He was being held in the Liberty County Jail in Hinesville Tuesday. But military prosecutors said he would be transferred to the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston at Joint Base Charleston in South Carolina.

Officials have not identified the five injured soldiers. Three were released from hospitals last week. On Tuesday, one remained at Winn Army Community Hospital, and another was still being cared for at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah. Both were in stable condition.

Marshall Gate at Fort Stewart in Georgia is seen on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, the date a soldier opened fire there. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, file) AP

Last week, the military honored six soldiers at Fort Stewart with a Meritorious Service Medal for their heroic actions responding to the shooting. Some helped restrain Radford, according to the military, while others provided lifesaving medical care to the wounded.

Radfords father, Eddie Radford, of Jacksonville, told The New York Times last week that his son had been seeking a transfer and had complained to his family of racism at Fort Stewart, where he had been stationed for several years. He added his son, who is Black, sent a text message to his aunt on Wednesday morning, which said that he loved everybody, and that hell be in a better place because he was about to go and do something.

Radford also told the newspaper his son did not have a history of serious mental health issues, though he sometimes dealt with depression tied to the death of his mother, which happened when he was a child.
Troops depart the District of Columbia National Guard Headquarters as President Donald Trump implements his order to use federal law enforcement and the National Guard to expel homeless people and rid the nation's capital of violent crime, in Washington, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) AP

WASHINGTON  The new picture of law enforcement in the nations capital began taking shape Tuesday as some of the 800 National Guard members deployed by the Trump administration began arriving. The citys police and federal officials, projecting cooperation, took the first steps in an uneasy partnership to reduce crime in what President Donald Trump called  without substantiation  a lawless city.

The influx came the morning after the Republican president announced he would be activating the guard members and taking over the Districts police department, something the law allows him to do temporarily. He cited a crime emergency  but referred to the same crime that city officials stress is already falling noticeably.

By evening, the administration was saying that National Guard members were expected to be on the streets starting Tuesday night, according to a White House official who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The Army said there were no specifics on the locations they will be patrolling, according to an official who spoke on condition of anonymity for the same reason.

Mayor Muriel Bowser pledged to work alongside the federal officials Trump has tasked with overseeing the citys law enforcement, while insisting the police chief remained in charge of the department and its officers.

How we got here or what we think about the circumstances  right now we have more police, and we want to make sure we use them, she told reporters.

The tone was a shift from the day before, when Bowser said Trumps plan to take over the Metropolitan Police Department and call in the National Guard was not a productive step and argued his perceived state of emergency simply doesnt match the declining crime numbers. Still, the law gives the federal government more sway over the capital city than in U.S. states, and Bowser said her administrations ability to push back is limited.

Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on social media that the meeting was productive.

The law allows Trump to take over the D.C. police for up to 30 days, though White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested it could last longer as authorities later reevaluate and reassess. Extending federal control past that time would require Congressional approval, something likely tough to achieve in the face of Democratic resistance.

About 850 officers and agents fanned out across Washington on Monday and arrested 23 people overnight, Leavitt said. The charges, she said, included homicide, drunk driving, gun and drug crimes and subway fare evasion. She didnt immediately provide further information on the arrests.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks during a news conference on President Donald Trump's plan to place Washington police under federal control and deploy National guard troops to Washington, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP

The U.S. Park Police has also removed 70 homeless encampments over the last five months, she said. People who were living in them can leave, go to a homeless shelter or go into drug addiction treatment, Leavitt said. Those who refuse could face fines or jail time.

The city and Trump have had a bumpy relationship

While Trump invokes his plan by saying that were going to take our capital back, Bowser and the MPD maintain that violent crime overall in Washington has decreased to a 30-year low after a sharp rise in 2023. Carjackings, for example, dropped about 50% in 2024 and are down again this year. More than half of those arrested, however, are juveniles, and the extent of those punishments is a point of contention for the Trump administration.

Resident Jeraod Tyre, whos lived in Washington for 15 years, said he does see crime slowing down. Hes wary of the National Guard troops, who dont have the same local knowledge as the citys regular police force. I feel safe walking through the city each and every day. The police are doing a mighty fine job, he said.

Bowser, a Democrat, spent much of Trumps first term in office openly sparring with the Republican president. She fended off his initial plans for a military parade through the streets and stood in public opposition when he called in a multi-agency flood of federal law enforcement to confront anti-police brutality protesters in summer 2020. She later had the words Black Lives Matter painted in giant yellow letters on the street about a block from the White House.

In Trumps second term, backed by Republican control of both houses of Congress, Bowser has walked a public tightrope for months, emphasizing common ground with the Trump administration on issues such as the successful effort to bring the NFLs Washington Commanders back to the District of Columbia.

She watched with open concern for the city streets as Trump finally got his military parade this summer. Her decision to dismantle Black Lives Matter Plaza earlier this year served as a neat metaphor for just how much the power dynamics between the two executives had evolved.

Now that fraught relationship enters uncharted territory as Trump has followed through on months of what many D.C. officials had quietly hoped were empty threats. The new standoff has cast Bowser in a sympathetic light, even among her longtime critics. Its a power play and were an easy target, said Clinique Chapman, CEO of the D.C. Justice Lab and a frequent Bowser critic.

In this image provided by the U.S. Army National Guard, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James Mingus speaks with soldiers and airmen from the District of Columbia National Guard at the D.C. National Guard Armory in Washington, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (Sgt. 1st Class Christy L. Sherman/U.S. Army National Guard via AP) AP

Where the power actually lies

Bowser contends that all the power resides with Trump and that local officials can do little other than comply and make the best of it. As long as Washington remains a federal enclave with limited autonomy under the 1973 Home Rule Act, she said, it will remain vulnerable to such takeovers.

Trump is the first president to use the laws Section 740 to take over Washingtons police for up to 30 days during times of emergencies.

For Trump, the effort to take over public safety in D.C. reflects an escalation of his aggressive approach to law enforcement. The District of Columbias status as a congressionally established federal district gives him a unique opportunity to push his tough-on-crime agenda, though he has not proposed solutions to the root causes of homelessness or crime.

Trumps declaration of a state of emergency fits the general pattern of his second term in office. He has declared states of emergency on issues ranging from border protection to economic tariffs, enabling him to essentially rule via executive order. In many cases, he has moved forward while the courts sorted them out.

Bowsers claims about successfully driving down violent crime rates received backing earlier this year from an unlikely source. Ed Martin, Trumps original choice for U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, issued a press release in April hailing a 25% drop in violent crime ratesfrom the previous year.

Tom Power, resident of the hip Logan Circle neighborhood for over a decade, said he occasionally hears about shootings or car break-ins, but hes never been a victim himself. I never felt threatened, Ive never given much thought to it, he said.

Washington native Sheina Taylor said the troops are putting her on edge. Its more fearful now because even though youre a law-abiding citizen, here in D.C., you dont know, especially because Im African-American, she said.

A member of the District of Columbia National Guard arrives at the District of Columbia National Guard Headquarters, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP

Trumps newly confirmed top federal prosecutor for Washington, onetime judge and former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro, argued that violent crime remains high and a significant issue for victims, despite recent decreases. These were vibrant human beings cut down because of illegal guns, she said.

Associated Press writers Alanna Durkin Richer in Washington, Jonathan J. Cooper in Phoenix, Ali Swenson in New York and video journalist River Zhang contributed reporting.
Corn futures posted Monday strength, holding the gains into the close. Contracts were up 2 to 3 cents across most nearbys. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was down 2 1/4 cents at $3.68 1/2.

USDAs weekly Crop Progress report showed the US corn crop at 94% silking, with 58% in the dough stage. The crop was also listed at 14% dented as of Sunday. Conditions slipped 1 point this week, to 72% gd/ex and 383 on the Brugler500 index.

More News from Barchart

This mornings Export Inspections report showed a total of 1.492 MMT (58.74 mbu) of corn shipped in the week of 8/7. That is up 16.13% above previous week and 51.28% larger than the same week in 2024. Mexico was the buyer of 500,209 MT, with 261,366 MT headed to Japan and 198,072 MT to 198,072 MT. Marketing year shipments are now at 63.127 MMT (2.485 bbu), which is 28.98% above the same period last year.

Ahead of the USDA Crop Production reports next week, analysts surveyed by Bloomberg shows an average guess of 184.3 bpa for national corn yield with a wide range of 181 to 189. Production is pegged at 15.995 billion bushels, which would be up 290 mbu from last months WASDE total. Old crop corn stocks are estimated to be projected at 1.325 bbu, down 15 mbu from last month. New crop is expected to be up 240 mbu to 1.9 bbu.

APK-Inform estimate the 2025 Ukraine corn crop at 27.5 MMT, up 2.5 MMT from last month with the countrys deputy economy minister showing a 2 MMT increase to 28 MMT. AgRural estimates the Brazilian second corn crop at 88% harvested.

Sep 25 Corn closed at $3.85, up 2 1/4 cents,

Nearby Cash was $3.68 1/2, up 2 1/4 cents,

Dec 25 Corn closed at $4.07 3/4, up 2 1/4 cents,

Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.25 1/4, up 2 1/4 cents,

New Crop Cash was $3.64 1/4, up 2 1/4 cents,

On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder 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
Seaside Heights will enforce beach after-hour beach closures after a person drowned and six people were rescued from rip currents Monday, the mayor said. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

Seaside Heights plans to strictly enforce after-hours beach closures after a man drowned and several others needed to be rescued from a rip current Monday night, mayor Anthony Vaz said.

This is about trying to protect people, Vaz told NJ Advance Media. Were concerned about the weather causing the tides to be very high and very dangerous.

One person died and six people needed to be rescued after being caught in a rip current while swimming in the ocean after lifeguards left for the day.

Beaches in Seaside Heights typically open at 9 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. when lifeguards leave for the day, Vaz said.

Patrolmen from the Seaside Heights Police Department will now help close beaches when lifeguards leave and issue summonses to people who remain on the beach.

They will make arrests if they have to, Vaz said about enforcing the after-hours beach closures.

The borough is also going to pay close attention to currents and storm conditions that could whip up rip currents and make closing decisions based on the data, Vaz said.

On bad days, we might close the beach at 5 or 6, Vaz said. If its not a bad day, well close it at 7.

Patrolmen typically patrol the boardwalk during the evening hours after beaches close and will enforce the beach closures as they patrol the boardwalk, according to Vaz.

The borough also plans to install bilingual signs about the dangers of swimming in the ocean while lifeguards are off duty so that those who speak Spanish can be properly informed, Vaz said.

Monday was a red flag day and all beachgoers were allowed only up to their knees in the ocean, officials said.

The multiple rescues were the latest from a busy weekend at the Ocean County beach town where rescue crews made 12 saves on unguarded beaches, according to officials.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com.
Central Pennsylvania residents should prepare for a wet Wednesday with scattered showers and potential thunderstorms, bringing locally heavy rainfall before transitioning to a hot and dry late summer pattern.

A cold front approaching from the northwest will trigger widespread precipitation, with some areas potentially receiving 1 to 2 inches of rain.

The National Weather Service forecasts scattered showers and thunderstorms developing Wednesday afternoon, with the highest probability of precipitation in eastern and southeastern regions.

Isolated showers and thunderstorms are occurring across central PA this evening, but most areas will remain dry. Showers and thunderstorms will increase in coverage across western Pennsylvania overnight and become more widespread across our region during the day Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/X0F24qOca9  NWS State College (@NWSStateCollege) August 12, 2025

Temperatures will remain hot and humid, reaching the 80s to low 90s with high humidity levels. Residents should be prepared for brief, intense downpours and potential localized flooding, especially in areas that have experienced minimal rainfall over the past two weeks.

Wednesdays weather system is expected to be the only significant precipitation event in the near-term forecast.

Following the front, a dry spell will settle in, characterized by above-normal temperatures and little to no rainfall. From Thursday through early next week, central Pennsylvania can expect mostly sunny conditions with temperatures consistently in the 80s and potentially low 90s.

The extended forecast indicates a potential weather pattern shift by late next week, with a cold front potentially bringing slightly cooler temperatures around August 19-20. Until then, residents should stay hydrated, use sun protection, and be prepared for persistent summer heat.

The current dry spell has been notable, with many local weather stations reporting minimal rainfall. For instance, State College has recorded only a trace of rain since July 28, highlighting the unusually dry conditions in the region.

Residents are advised to stay weather-aware, monitor local forecasts, and take precautions during Wednesdays potential thunderstorm activity, particularly if traveling or engaging in outdoor activities.

Current weather radar

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by PennLive.com staff.
This story was originally published on HR Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily HR Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Regulatory requirements are combining with a cultural shift to push most U.S. companies in a recent WTW survey to adopt pay transparency practices, the consulting firm said in a press release Monday.

WTWs poll of 388 U.S.-based respondents found that 82% were either communicating, planning or considering communicating pay ranges with employees and 79% were doing so with external job candidates. However, fewer than half said they shared base pay determinations or progressions, and even fewer shared how pay ranges are designed or managed, or shared the employees position within a given range.

More than two-thirds of employers cited regulations as driving their pay transparency efforts, while 44% said the same of company values and culture and 41% pointed to employee expectations. These are signs of a broader cultural shift around communicating pay, Lindsay Wiggins, WTWs North America pay equity co-leader, said in the release.

Dive Insight:

While a growing number of states require pay transparency in some form, international regulations  specifically the European Unions 2023 directive on the subject  also are causing U.S. employers to shift, WTW said. Thats despite the fact that many of the nations employers are not directly affected by the EUs directive, Wiggins noted.

Companies recognize that increased pay transparency is becoming a new reality that can support their employer brand and build competitive advantage in the talent market, Wiggins said.

WTW similarly found in a 2024 survey of more than 500 North American employers that most had put pay transparency in place, primarily due to regulatory requirements. Others cited company values and culture as well as employee expectations. Sources who previously spoke to HR Dive earlier this year said transparency has increasingly become standard business practice for employers.

But other research disputes whether employers are actually ready to comply with transparency requirements.

For example, Aon published data in July from a study showing that only 19% of global organizations considered themselves prepared to be transparent about their pay practices, including just 25% of North American respondents. A separate report by Mercer, published in January, found that only 19% of U.S. companies had a pay transparency strategy in place, even as most said they planned to share pay information both internally and externally.
This story was originally published on HR Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily HR Dive newsletter.

Disney agreed to settle wrongful termination and discrimination claims filed in February 2024 by Gina Carano, court documents filed Thursday show.

The Walt Disney Company and Lucasfilm are pleased to announce that we have reached an agreement with Gina Carano to resolve the issues in her pending lawsuit against the companies, a Lucasfilm spokesperson said in a statement to Variety. With this lawsuit concluded, we look forward to identifying opportunities to work together with Ms. Carano in the near future.

Carano, an actor who played Rebel ranger Cara Dune on Disneys The Mandalorian television series, alleged she was fired from her role on the show in 2021 over conservative posts shared on social media sites, including X. Carano alleged the company terminated her in response to public pressure despite looking the other way when it came to male colleagues expressing similar views.

The case gained prominence when Elon Musk said he would back the lawsuit, following on a promise made several months earlier to fund the legal bills for those treated unfairly by their employer for expressing themselves on X.

The lawsuit brought attention to a unique California labor code that prohibits employers from preventing or controlling employees political activity. A 2020 analysis of the provision by law firm Seyfarth warned California employers to tread carefully when taking action against an employee based on political activity, noting that the term continues to develop and encompasses quite a bit of conduct.

Court documents did not outline the terms of the settlement between Disney and Carano, but do show the parties filed for a joint stipulation for dismissal with prejudice in federal court in California.

I have come to an agreement with Disney/Lucasfilm @disney @Lucasfilm which I believe is the best outcome for all parties involved, Carano said in a post on X. I hope this brings some healing to the force.

Recommended Reading
Who Became A Poker Millionaire at Onyx in Cyprus?

Tim Baker Live Reporter Copy link

The $10,400 GG Million$ at the 2025 Onyx Super High Roller Series, presented by Onyx Club, has crowned its first champion as Lebanons Moussa Ahmad claimed the trophy, and the $1,000,000 top prize. Ahmad topped a field of 510 entries at the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, becoming the inaugural winner of this new high-stakes series.

Ahmad outlasted a tough final table before defeating Canadas Jamil Wakil in a heads-up duel that spanned only one level. Wakil earned $650,000 for his runner-up finish, while Austrias Stefan Kiwisch took home the third-place prize.

The win marked a career-best result for Ahmad and put him in the top spot on the Onyx Player of the Series leaderboard, where the eventual champion will receive a $110,000 Triton Poker Jeju package.

GG Million$ Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Moussa Ahmad Lebanon $1,000,000 2 Jamil Wakil Canada $650,000 3 Stefan Kiwisch Austria $415,000 4 Krasimir Yankov Bulgaria $292,000 5 Peng Chen China $212,000 6 Ohad Geiger Israel $160,000 7 Orhan Ates Turkey $127,000 8 Weiran Pu China $102,000 9 Hao Tian China $85,000

Ahmad's Path to Victory

Ahmad began the day in the middle of the pack but wasted little time climbing the leaderboard. Early on, he three-bet Kiwisch with a weak ace and managed to get Kiwisch to release an overpair on a low flop. Soon after, he found a perfect spot against Peng Chen, defending the big blind with four-deuce and flopping a wheel. A big river bet earned maximum value against Chens top pair and closed the gap on leader Wakil.

Stefan Kiwisch

Not long after, China's Weiran Pu shoved ace-queen over Ahmads open, only to run into his Big Slick. The board offered no help to Pu, giving Ahmad his first knockout of the day and the chip lead with seven players remaining.

After the eliminations of Ohad Geiger in sixth and Chen in fifth, Ahmad was back in the mix against Kiwisch. This time, Kiwischs big river bet with six-high got Ahmad to fold the best hand, and the Austrian proudly turned over the bluff. The celebration was short-lived, as in the very next hand, Ahmad won those chips back, and more, shoving the turn and forcing Kiwisch to lay down a hand with a lot of equity.

Krasimir Yankov

Krasmir Yankov, who had been the master of survival throughout the tournament, was next to fall to Ahmad. He got it in ahead with king-nine against Ahmads jack-nine, but a jack on the flop sealed his fate in fourth place, with Ahmad now holding more than half the chips in play.

Moments later, Kiwisch joined him on the rail after the dealer delivered a deuce on the river to send him out in third, setting up a heads-up match with Wakil.

Jamil Wakil

Ahmad started heads-up with nearly a 4:1 chip advantage, but Wakil instantly doubled through Ahmad with trip jacks to narrow the gap. Ahmad proposed a deal to Wakil, but Wakil preferred to play only for the final hand to arrive immediately after.

In the last hand of the tournament, Ahmad called a three-bet preflop with eight-three of clubs, then shoved over Wakils continuation-bet on a jack-high board. Wakils pocket tens were ahead until the river brought a club, completing Ahmads flush and making him the GG Million$ champion.

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Is Playing Poker at Playground in Montreal Worth the Hype?

Lukas Robinson PokerNews Ambassador Copy link

Hey guys, its Lukas Robinson (RobinPoker) here. I wanted to share my recent experience visiting Canada's legendary Playground poker room for the first time, playing the WPT Global Summer Million Series held there in July 2025.

Playing at this venue has always been on my poker bucket list. Why? Im not exactly sure, but I think it comes from traveling the world, playing poker, and hearing how highly other players and content creators speak of Playground as one of the best places to play in the world.

I spent one week playing poker every day at Playground. Was it worth the hype? Ill give you my answer at the end, but first, heres my full experience.

Booking Accomodations

Playground doesnt currently have its own hotel (apparently there are future plans). The nearest is The Host Hotel, but it was fully booked, so I stayed in an Airbnb in Chateauguay. This was perfect, just 10 minutes by taxi, right on the river, so I could walk and run in the sun every day before sitting for 10+ hours playing poker!

I used Uber throughout my stay. The taxi from the airport to the Airbnb took around 30 minutes and cost about $50. Daily taxis to and from Playground cost around $10 each way.

Signing Up and Filming

Walking into Playground for the first time felt like stepping into a Vegas casino. Id signed up online beforehand (which I recommend), so check-in was quick. They even gave me a free $20 for following their Facebook and Instagram pages, so that was a nice little early bonus!

Security checked my bags and allowed in all my camera equipment. To film, you just fill out a form on their website. I confirmed with floor staff before filming, and as my name was on their approved list, there were no issues. They simply asked me not to film players faces, which is fair. This made anyone that didnt want to be filmed at the tables feel more relaxed overall.

The free Wi-Fi was super fast, perfect for posting updates on social media.

Finding the Poker Room

On the first floor youll see mostly slot machines. There are signs directing you to the poker rooms. Because of the big WPT event, there were two poker areas:

Ground floor (to the right of the entrance) for overflow tables during big events.

Third floor: the main poker room for cash games, including VIP high-stakes.

The third floor is where the real magic happens. Dark, cool, and atmospheric. My ideal poker room. Theres also a restaurant on the first floor and two more on the second. You can also order food directly to your table.

Withdrawing Money & Buying Into Tournaments or Cash Games

I didnt bring cash, so I used the first-floor ATM by the cashier, which lets you withdraw $1,000 CAD at a time for about a $5 fee. Pretty reasonable.

You can buy in at the cashier next to the ATM or at the cashier inside the poker room where your game is held. I never had to wait long and it was always a smooth and fast process.

The Staff

The staff at Playground were a huge part of what made the experience amazing. Everyone was friendly and professional. Dealers were some of the best Ive seen, the floor staff were helpful, and the waitresses were quick and helpful. Even if none were nearby, you could ask a dealer to call one over via the click of a button.

Cash Games

I didnt play cash games, but from what I saw, there were always 10+ tables running on the third floor, plus high-stakes VIP games in the back. Tournament players got free soft drinks; cash game players got free food as well.

Table Food and Restaurants

Table service: The third-floor poker room had a much better food selection than the first floor. On the first floor, you could get basics like burgers, salads, or sandwiches. I had a few chicken wraps, which were decent. On the third floor, the food was excellent. The Buddha bowl with added salmon and the chicken shawarma wrap with fries were standouts. Coffee options, including lattes and iced coffee, were also solid. What I liked is you were never waiting long for your food or drinks. In terms of price, honestly compared to Vegas, it was pretty cheap, for both the table service food and the restaurants.

Restaurants: Playground has three:

The Rail Coal Fire Bistro (1st floor)

Etc Steakhouse (2nd floor)  my favorite. The New York Strip was one of the best steaks Ive had.

Drunken Dragon (2nd floor, Japanese cuisine)

Just outside is Robbies Smokehouse, I got their meat platter, which is something I would only recommend if you want to feel like youre doing an eating challenge. I did manage to finish it, but it was the biggest meal I think I have ever had. The food, though overall, amazing. I was also able to order Uber Eats to my airbnb on some mornings. So overall the food options both at Playground and around the airbnb were great.

Playing Poker at Playground

With it being a WPT event, I am sure anyone that has ever been to one, knows how well run these events are. This was no exception. The tournament structures, variety of buy-ins and formats was obviously great. The $500 6-Max being my favourite event I played. I am not too sure what their daily tournaments are like, but I assume they wouldnt be much different in terms of how they are run.

The chips, cards, and tables were in excellent condition, and seating was comfortable. Side tables were everywhere, making it easy to manage drinks and food.

What I didnt realise in Montreal is that the 1st language is actually French. So I was worried that communication would be an issue when playing here, but that was not the case. Although some dealers and players did speak to each other in French, the main language spoken was still English and honestly the local people were some of the friendliest I have met in the world. An absolute privilege to play poker with them. No one sat there not speaking with a hoodie and sunglasses on. Everyone is having a good time, communicating, smiling, and enjoying the beautiful game of poker.

Final Verdict. Is it worth the Hype?

YES! I absolutely loved my time playing at Playground and it 100% lived up to the hype. I know I tend to be more on the positive side of life than your average person, but I cant think of one bad thing to say about this poker room. I cannot wait to return already for future events. It was in my Top 3 places I have ever played poker in the world. I would highly recommend you play poker here once in your life. Thanks to WPT Global for giving me the opportunity to go and play in their Summer Million Series.

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The 2025 Coolbet Open 550 Main Event kicked off with Day 1a today, and a crowd of 157 entries made their way to the Chesterfield Poker Club in Tallinn. At the end of the nine levels of play, Norwegian player Edd-Christian Gerhardsen had gathered the most chips of the 62 survivors, bagging 247,000, more than eight times the starting stack of 30,000 and 165 big blinds at the start of Day 2.

As always with the Coolbet Open, the poker room had a friendly and fun atmosphere throughout the day. Aside from collecting chips, Gerhardsen was seen laughing and bantering with the other players at his table, among whom was hometown hero Jaanus Kippel, who ended the day as second in chips with 220,000.

Finland's Jonny Raninen had to reenter early, but grinded his way to the podium as he ended with 217,000, scoring a double knock-out along the way. Frenchman Anthony Lesoismier-Geniaux needed three bullets before he started to pick up steam, eventually ending with 216,500. Sweden's best performer was Tomas Kaarvall with 164,500, while Iceland's Runar Runarsson also made the international top ten with a stack of 130,500.

Jonny Raninen

End of Day 1a Top Ten Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Edd-Christian Gerhardsen Norway 247,000 165 2 Jaanus Kippel Estonia 220,000 147 3 Jonny Raninen Finland 217,000 145 4 Anthony Lesoismier-Geniaux France 216,500 144 5 Andre Sorm Estonia 175,000 117 6 Tomas Kaarvall Sweden 164,500 110 7 Maksim Belomestnoi Estonia 137,500 92 8 Isabelle Winther Norway 137,500 92 9 Runar Runarsson Iceland 130,500 87 10 Markus Markusson Norway 130,000 87

Twitch streamer Ylva "Jevakim" Thorsrud also made it through to Day 2, increasing her stack to 40,500. Meanwhile, Diego Rodriguez Cantillana (32,000) was the only survivor of a small Chilean delegation, who traveled halfway across the world to travel the Coolbet Open in Tallinn.

Last year's champion Anders Bjorkheim was less fortunate and booked an early exit after shoving into a flush. 2022 Coolbet Open winner Kaido Mikk also departed before the day's end, but they and every other interested player can try again as Day 1b, the second and final starting flight, will take place Thursday, August 14.

Anders Bjorkheim

Day 1b will start at noon local time and follow the same structure as Day 1a, meaning nine levels of 45 minutes are in the cards, with a 15-minute break planned after Level 3 and Level 6. Those who are unsuccessful on Day 1b still have more opportunities to become a Coolbet Open champion, as late registration and unlimited reentries will be possible until the conclusion of the first level of Day 2.

A bumper crowd is expected for Day 1b, so make sure to tune back in to PokerNews to not miss anything from the 2025 Coolbet Open Main Event.
Aiken Standard Reporter

Erin Weeks is a reporter with the Aiken Standard. She covers education in Aiken County.

Erin is a graduate of the University of South Carolina Aiken. Her first poetry book, "Origins of My Love," was published by Bottlecap Press in 2022.

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HubSpot was quick to realize that AI can enhance digital marketing in myriad ways. The companys Breeze AI gives marketers a toolkit of AI-powered applications, including both generative and agentic AI in the mix. These can be used to enhance a customers existing set of HubSpot tools, or set up a new AI-powered marketing suite. The system is designed to operate independently, based on the human operators instructions and preferences. Since introducing Breeze AI last year, HubSpot claims that users have seen significant gains  on the order of 40% to 50%  in ticket and customer contact resolutions.

HubSpots product line includes tools for a wide range of functions, from ad placement to Google ad optimization, to content writing, to marketing automation, to newsletter building, to email marketing, to building chatbots. Its a long list, with something to meet every conceivable need in digital marketing. The company has built a reputation for innovation, and in recent years, HubSpot has integrated AI technology into its software offerings.

The first stock well look at here is HubSpot, the well-known marketing software platform. The company was founded in 2006, and over the past two decades has turned itself into the go-to software stop for online marketing teams. HubSpots software provides a set of marketing tools, based on a unified platform and designed to solve the day-to-day problems and issues that arise in CRM, social media management, content management, and SEO. The platform has proven popular with direct marketers, inbound sales experts, and customer service teams.

Using the TipRanks database , we dug into two of their top rebound candidates. Both have tumbled more than 30% this year, but Piper Sandler sees each as having the potential to turn things around. Heres a closer look  along with the analysts take on what could spark that recovery.

Thats where Wall Streets pros can lend a hand. Lately, Piper Sandler analysts have been busy flagging stocks that are hovering near their lows and could be primed for a rebound.

The trick is spotting companies at or near the bottom of their cycle. Sure, every seasoned advisor will tell you that timing the market is impossible  and theyre right  but timing still matters. Buying low is the name of the game, and that means recognizing when a stocks price is depressed and presents investors with an opportunity.

Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence.

The stock markets first four months of 2025 were marked by sharp swings, but momentum has since turned positive, with the S&P 500 now up ~8.5% for the year. Even so, some stocks have yet to catch up  and for investors, those laggards could hold an intriguing comeback potential.

Story Continues

HubSpot works on the proven freemium model. That is, the company offers a basic set of tools and services to all users, free of charge  with more options, more sophisticated tools, and more in-depth service available through paid subscription packages. The model has proven successful in the world of software-as-a-service, and HubSpot has used it to build a $23 billion company, that has generated $2.8 billion in revenue over the last 12 months, and can boast some 268,000 customers.

In its last reported financial results, for 2Q25, HubSpots quarterly revenue came to $760.9 million, for a 19% year-over-year gain, and beat the forecast by $20.8 million. Subscription revenue, red meat for a SaaS company, grew 19% year-over-year to hit $744.5 million. At the bottom line, the company reported non-GAAP earnings of $2.19 per share, 7 cents per share better than had been anticipated. The company finished Q2 with deep pockets; it had $1.9 billion in cash and other liquid assets available as of June 30 this year.

Despite all of this, HUBS shares are down 35% for the year-to-date. Piper Sandlers Brent Bracelin has an idea whats behind the downbeat stock action and thinks the scene is set for a rebound. He writes, Q2 was better-than-feared evident by the $22M top-line beat, especially against a backdrop of negative investor sentiment across PLG SaaS models that pressured HUBS shares Skeptics may still point to the ~$5M FX tailwind that contributed to ~23% of the Q2 beat and 2H guide that implies cc growth slows to 16% (vs. 18%). However, we argue that below the surface there are early signs that HUBS is at the forefront of a product-driven growth+margin rebound We upgrade to Overweight on a potential 2026 growth+margin recovery and favorable risk-reward after the sell-off. Next catalyst: 9/3 analyst day.

Bracelins Overweight (i.e., Buy) rating is accompanied by a $675 price target that implies a 50% upside potential in the next 12 months. (To watch Bracelins track record, click here)

Like many tech stocks, HubSpot has picked up plenty of Wall Street attention. The 29 recent analyst reviews include 25 to Buy against just 4 to Hold, for a Strong Buy consensus rating, while the $686.59 average price target points toward a one-year gain of 53% from the current trading price of $449.72. (See HUBS stock forecast)

GoDaddy (GDDY)

The second stock well look at here is GoDaddy, an internet company offering both domain hosting and website building services. The company was founded in 1997, during the tech expansion that led to the dot.com bubble, and in the years since then this proven tech survivor has built itself into an $19 billion player in the industry.

GoDaddy is best known for hosting domain names. Customers can register names with the service, locking in their ownership of the name, and to date, GoDaddy boasts that it hosts some 81 million domain names. In addition, GoDaddy allows prospective customers to search for or generate unique domain names, and allows investors to appraise name values and enter domain auctions. On the website side, the company offers website design and building services, with a free trial website builder available. GoDaddy also provides web hosting, and can even host sites built through WordPress.

GoDaddy offers plenty of additional services. These include web security services, including SSL certificates, and marketing services, such as a logo maker and a content and photo creator. The company even offers professional email hosting, through Microsoft 365, with several pricing packages available.

Over the past year, GoDaddy has seen its revenues take a modest upward trend, but the stock is down 32% since the start of the year. The drop in share price came primarily in two large steps, one in February, when the company missed expectations in its 4Q24 earnings report, and again last week, when the 2Q25 report showed a beat vs. the profit forecast  but by less than investors had hoped.

In the quarter, GoDaddys total revenue came to $1.2 billion. This was up 8% year-over-year and in-line with expectations. The company reported a GAAP EPS of $1.41, which represented year-over-year growth of 40 cents per share and was 3 cents per share over the estimates. GoDaddys cash and liquid asset holdings at the end of the quarter came to $1.09 billion, and the free cash flow of $391.5 million was up 21% from the prior-year period.

This stock has caught the eye of Piper Sandler analyst Clarke Jeffries, who takes particular notice of the sharp decline in the share price that we noted above. Jeffries says of GoDaddy, We believe shares have entered oversold territory. GoDaddy is a remarkably consistent business, but a 32% retreat in shares since the Q4 print would have you believe otherwise. Sitting today, GDDY is valued at ~12x CY26 FCF (8% FCF yield) encroaching on the multiple the business carried prepandemic despite demonstrative progress on AI product packaging, margins & shareholder return focused capital allocation. We believe GDDY is well on the path to $13 FCF/share in 2026  easily justifying in our minds $180+ per share. On a more tactical level, cash conversion improvement has driven a sizable raise in FCF growth from 11% FY FCF growth entering the year to now 18% growth with 2H NEBITDA expansion looking very conservative. Its time to revisit GDDY in our view.

Jeffries gives GDDY shares an Overweight (Buy) rating, which he complements with a $182 price target, suggesting a 36.5% one-year upside for the stock. (To watch Jeffriess track record, click here)

The 16 recent analyst reviews of GDDY break down to 11 Buys and 4 Holds, for a Moderate Buy consensus rating. The stock is selling for $133.35 and its $193.79 average price target implies a gain of 45% in the year ahead. (See GDDY 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
Jenny Peterson is a business reporter at The Post and Courier, focusing on retail. An award-winning journalist, she covered statewide business news as special projects editor at SC Biz News. Originally from New Orleans, she previously worked as an editor at New Orleans CityBusiness and Biz New Orleans business publications.
David Slade is a senior Post and Courier reporter and personal finance columnist. Over more than three decades he's worked for multiple newspapers and magazines, and his reporting has been honored with more than 50 state, regional and national journalism awards. David reports on the impacts of South Carolina's rapid population growth and development. Reach him at 843-937-5552 or dslade@postandcourier.com
Chloe Barlow is a multimedia reporter straight out of the Midlands. She trained in journalism at both the University of South Carolina and Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. She covers a wide breadth of South Carolina news, but she is especially interested in accountability and justice reporting.
Education Lab Reporter

Ian Grenier covers K-12 and higher education in South Carolina from Columbia. Originally from Charleston, he studied history and political science at USC and reported for the Victoria Advocate in South Texas before joining The Post and Courier.
Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) will release earnings results for the third quarter, before the opening bell on Thursday, Aug. 14.

Analysts expect the Moline, Illinois-based company to report quarterly earnings at $4.59 per share, down from $6.29 per share in the year-ago period. Deere projects to report quarterly revenue of $10.33 billion, compared to $11.39 billion a year earlier, according to data from Benzinga Pro.

With the recent buzz around Deere, some investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company's dividends too. Currently, Deere offers an annual dividend yield of 1.28%  a quarterly dividend amount of $1.62 per share ($6.48 a year).

So, how can investors capitalize on its dividend yield to earn a regular $500 monthly?

To earn $500 per month or $6,000 annually from dividends alone, you would need an investment of approximately $468,417 or around 926 shares. For a more modest $100 per month or $1,200 per year, you would need $93,582 or around 185 shares.

To calculate: Divide the desired annual income ($6,000 or $1,200) by the dividend ($6.48 in this case). So, $6,000 / $6.48 = 926 ($500 per month), and $1,200 / $6.48 = 185 shares ($100 per month).

Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis, as the dividend payment and the stock price both fluctuate over time.

View more earnings on DE

How that works: The dividend yield is computed by dividing the annual dividend payment by the stocks current price.

For example, if a stock pays an annual dividend of $2 and is currently priced at $50, the dividend yield would be 4% ($2/$50). However, if the stock price increases to $60, the dividend yield drops to 3.33% ($2/$60). Conversely, if the stock price falls to $40, the dividend yield rises to 5% ($2/$40).

Similarly, changes in the dividend payment can impact the yield. If a company increases its dividend, the yield will also increase, provided the stock price stays the same. Conversely, if the dividend payment decreases, so will the yield.

DE Price Action: Shares of Deere fell 0.2% to close at $505.85 on Tuesday.

On July 15, Oppenheimer analyst Kristen Owen maintained Deere with an Outperform rating and raised the price target from $555 to $560.





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This article How To Earn $500 A Month From Deere Stock Ahead Of Q3 Earnings originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Nicole Ziege is a Reporter for The Post and Courier Myrtle Beach/Georgetown Times. She covers government and courts in Myrtle Beach and beyond. She previously covered news in Appalachia and received her journalism degree from Western Kentucky University.
Echo Global Logistics announced on Monday that is has acquired 3PL peer FreightSaver.

Huntington Beach, California-based FreightSaver was founded in 2014 by Ryan Renne and Buster Schwab. Its tech platform specializes in truckload, less-than-truckload, expedited and specialized freight shipments. The company also boasts a notable managed transportation client base.

In addition to its headquarters, FreightSaver also has offices in Utah, Michigan, Ohio and Temecula, California.

Financial terms of the transaction were not provided.

FreightSaver has built a customer-centric, tech-enabled business that complements our strengths and accelerates our ability to deliver value through managed transportation, said Echo CEO Doug Waggoner in a news release.

Chicago-based Echo is a multimodal, technology-enabled freight broker with over 60 offices across North America. Its platform connects its 35,000 customers with over 50,000 transportation providers.

Joining Echo is a natural next step in FreightSavers journey, said FreightSaver CEO Renne. Weve always focused on agility, personalized service, and long-term client relationshipsvalues we clearly share with Echo.

More FreightWaves articles by Todd Maiden:

The post Echo Global Logistics buys fellow 3PL FreightSaver appeared first on FreightWaves.
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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.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Cloudy with a few showers. High 89F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

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Clear to partly cloudy. Low 71F. Winds light and variable.
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Kailey Cota is a breaking news and public safety reporter for the Post & Courier's Charleston location. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina. She previously wrote for The State, The Current and The Daily Gamecock, and was named South Carolinas collegiate journalist of the year.
The Berkeley County School District provided all sorts of physical books to students at its back to school festival earlier this month, but an extensive research platform the state of South Carolina provides to students in the rest of the state remains off-limits in the district.
You are the owner of this article.
Anna Wilder covers politics for the Post and Courier. She previously worked as a political reporter for The State newspaper. She's a Florida native and a graduate of the University of Florida. Her work has appeared in outlets like Politico, Miami Herald and the Associated Press.
Despite posting record Q2 growth for its blockbuster weight loss and diabetes drug tirzepatide, Eli Lilly is facing legal challenge from a lawsuit filed in Texas that accuses the pharma company of bribing providers to prescribe its drugs.

Attorney General for Texas Ken Paxton and Health Choice Alliance claim Eli Lilly offered illegal incentives to medical providers in the southern state so its most profitable drugs, including popular glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) medications tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound, would be preferentially prescribed to patients.

The lawsuit marks the latest legal assault by the attorney generals office, having previously sued Eli Lilly over an industry conspiracy to increase insulin prices. Health Choice Alliance has also filed previous legal action against Eli Lilly in the past.

In the latest filing, Paxton and Health Choice Alliance claim that Eli Lillys actions cost Texas Medicaid millions of dollars. The claimants argue that prescriptions were covered by the government insurance programme, resulting in claims to Texas Medicaid that were tainted by Eli Lillys illegal marketing and quid pro quo arrangements.

As per the filing, Lilly is alleged to have participated in two schemes to induce and influence providers. In the first, the pharma company, with the help of third parties, apparently provided free nursing services. The second scheme alleges that Lilly continues to offer reimbursement support services to get their drugs prescribed over rivals.

An Eli Lilly spokesperson told Pharmaceutical Technology that it intends to vigorously defend against these allegations.

The spokesperson added: Multiple courts and the federal government have rejected claims by this same corporate relator against Lilly as meritless. In fact, the United States Government determined that the relators allegations lack sufficient factual and legal support in a prior case, explaining that federal healthcare programs have a strong interest in ensuring that, after a physician has appropriately prescribed a medication, patients have access to basic product support relating to their medication."

This referred to similar kickback claims previously made by Health Choice Alliance. Lilly was originally sued by the organisation in 2017, alleged to have participated in a multi-tiered kickback scheme along with other pharma companies, including Bayer. This involved offering free nursing services in exchange for preferential drug prescriptions.

The case was dismissed a year later by a judge in Texas. In 2021, a court of appeals upheld the prior decision to scrap the case amid attempts to revive the lawsuit.
The crypto markets keep roaring. The total market capitalization of all cryptocurrencies notched a new all-time high of almost $4.15 trillion early Monday morning, according to data from CoinGecko. That beats the last record set in late July. The total value of the crypto market has since dipped but is still up almost 0.6% over the past 24 hours.

Among the top tokens, Ethereum is the biggest gainer. The worlds second largest cryptocurrency crossed the threshold of $4,000 over the weekend for the first time since December. The token is up over 2% in the past 24 hours and now trades at around $4,300, according to data from Binance.

Ethereums surge outpaces Bitcoins, but the worlds largest cryptocurrency is still up 1.4% over the past day to cross the $120,000 mark, per Binance. The stock markets are essentially flat, with the S&P 500 slightly up since Monday morning.

The surge in the digital assets market comes amid two crypto-friendly executive orders from President Donald Trump.

On Thursday, the 47th president instructed federal regulators to reevaluate their guidance on the allowance of alternative assets like crypto or private equity into employer-sponsored retirement plans.

The measure essentially reinstated a similar order Trump had issued in 2020 during his first term that Preisdent Joe Biden rolled back when he assumed office.

Still, crypto industry analysts hailed last weeks executive order as a potential windfall for the industry. Assets in 401(k)s totaled $8.7 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Investment Company Institute.

On the same day that Trump potentially opened up 401(k)s to crypto, he also tackled one more pet issue for the digital assets industry. In an executive order, he instructed financial institutions to stop the practice of debanking of customers based on their politics, religious beliefs, or business activities.

The crypto industry has long decried banks shuttering of their accounts, and some have alleged that there was a centralized conspiracy, known as Operation Chokepoint 2.0, to deny crypto businesses access to traditional financial institutions. Still, there hasnt been a smoking gun, or discrete guidance from regulators that instructed banks to stop working with crypto firms.

Regardless, industry advocates cheered on the presidents order on debanking.

Operation Chokepoint 2.0 was real, Paul Grewal, the chief legal officer at the crypto exchange Coinbase, posted Thursday on X. And now we see real action taken to fix it.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
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ALKEME Insurance Achieves First-Time Ranking With 565% Revenue Growth Over Three YearsLADERA RANCH, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / ALKEME Insurance, a Top 25 Insurance Brokerage, has earned its debut spot at No. 730 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies, highlighting ALKEME's explosive three-year revenue growth of 565%. This milestone demonstrates ALKEME's relentless pursuit of excellence and transformative impact on the insurance industry. ALKEME Insurance Ranks #730 on the Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Private CompaniesInc., the leading media brand for entrepreneurs and business leaders, honored ALKEME Insurance for its remarkable expansion and market disruption. Powered by a passionate team and a customer-centric approach, ALKEME has quickly distinguished itself among America's most dynamic private companies."Our incredible growth is the result of our team's unwavering commitment and bold vision for revolutionizing insurance distribution and client experience. ALKEME's entrepreneurial spirit, relentless innovation, and trust in our partners have been the drivers of this achievement," said Curtis Barton, CEO of ALKEME Insurance. "Being recognized by Inc. is not only a celebration of our journey so far, but a testament to our dedication to building something extraordinary in insurance." This year's Inc. 5000 honorees have excelled while overcoming economic headwinds and challenging market conditions. ALKEME's robust 565% growth places it among the nation's most ambitious and successful companies. ALKEME will be featured in the Fall issue of Inc. magazine.For more information and the complete list, visit Inc. 5000's 2025 list.ABOUT ALKEMEALKEME is a full-service insurance agency providing businesses and individuals with an extensive array of commercial and personal insurance, employee and executive benefits, retirement and wealth management services. Since its founding in 2020, ALKEME has completed over 70 acquisitions and serves its customers from over 60 locations in 29 states. ALKEME is ranked by Insurance Journal one of the top 25 largest agencies in the United States and by Business Insurance as the #3 fastest-growing broker in its Top 100. Founded by owner/operators with a unique vision, ALKEME is fueled by its proven operating methodologies providing its partner agencies with the autonomy, resources and support to grow and thrive in an ever-changing insurance landscape. Visit https://alkemeins.com for more information.Contact InformationJosh BenvenisteMarketingjbenveniste@ alkemeins.com SOURCE: ALKEME Insurance
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America ("Allianz Life") 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 Allianz Life.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On July 16, 2025, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America ("Allianz Life") detected unauthorized access to a third-party, cloud-based CRM system used by Allianz Life. The breach compromised the personal information of most of its 1.4 million customers, along with some financial professionals and employees.The impacted data may include names and other personal identifiers.An investigation with cybersecurity experts followed, and Allianz Life filed notice of the breach with the Maine Attorney General on July 25, 2025. Allianz Life will begin mailing notice letters on August 1, 2025, to impacted individuals. Compensation may be available for 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 Allianz Life, 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
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ReelTime's Reel Intelligence "RI" Adds Apple's Billion-Plus Devices to ReelTime's Potential Reach, Joining 2.8 Billion Android Devices in Unprecedented AI Rollout Delivering High-Performance AI Without Data Centers.BOTHELL, WASHINGTON / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / ReelTime Media (OTCID:RLTR) today announced that its flagship AI platform, Reel Intelligence (RI), is now available to nearly all iPhone and iPad users worldwide through direct web access, no App Store or Google Play installation required. This global expansion follows RI's North American rollout to 118 million iOS devices and joins its previously announced availability on 2.8 billion Android devices. With Apple's (AAPL) worldwide footprint encompassing an estimated 1.38 billion active iPhones and over 670 million iPads sold to date, RI's addressable market now spans the vast majority of the world's smartphones and tablets. Every Apple mobile device owner can instantly tap into RI's capabilities for free by simply visiting http://tryrinow.com/ on Safari or any browser, eliminating app downloads, approval barriers, and the 30% app store revenue share cut that typically comes with native apps.Unlike competing AI offerings from tech giants such as OpenAI's ChatGPT backed by Microsoft (MSFT), Anthropic's Claude backed by Alphabet, (GOOGL), Google's own upcoming Gemini (GOOGL), Meta's various AI initiatives (META), or China's DeepSeek platform, ReelTime's RI is not confined by OEM partnerships, regional availability limits, or app marketplace gatekeepers. RI's universal web-based deployment means it faces no geographic restrictions or device exclusivity deals, users anywhere in the world can access the full platform instantly, without waiting for regional app store rollouts or carrier pre-installs. This frictionless distribution strategy sharply differentiates RI from its peers and allows ReelTime to reach a truly global audience overnight, with zero dependency on third-party approvals."This global launch available now on Apple's devices marks a pivotal milestone in our mission to make advanced AI accessible to everyone, everywhere," said Barry Henthorn, CEO of ReelTime Media. "By opening up RI access to nearly every iPhone and iPad worldwide, on top of the billions of Android devices we already support, we're eliminating many of the usual barriers that have constrained AI distribution. There are no gatekeepers and no hidden tolls with our distributed model; users get immediate, equal access to the most powerful Intelligence capabilities available, whether they're in North America, Europe, Asia or beyond. This strategy not only supercharges our reach and growth potential but also demonstrates a new standard for how cutting-edge AI can be delivered at scale. We're proud that RI can serve a global community without the limitations that even the largest tech companies' AI products still face." RI's lean architecture also requires less than 1% of the storage space of other major AI apps, reflecting a fundamental design advantage. While typical AI apps demand hundreds of megabytes (or more) of local storage for models and data, RI operates primarily through the cloud and distributed computing, so there's no hefty download or frequent update burden on the device. For end users, this means virtually no impact on device storage and an AI that is always up-to-date, a stark contrast to many competitors that silo their features across separate apps or large installs. Despite its tiny on-device footprint, RI delivers a more comprehensive feature set than any single rival platform.In addition, unlike AI platforms tied to costly, power-hungry data centers and proprietary chipsets from companies like NVIDIA (NVDA), AMD (AMD), and Apple (AAPL), Reel Intelligence (RI) operates on a distributed computing model that lives across the connected world. This means RI upgrades automatically as global devices improve, scales instantly without infrastructure buildouts, and delivers unmatched performance with a fraction of the environmental impact.All-in-One Generative AI Powerhouse, No Compromises: Reel Intelligence combines capabilities that often span multiple apps into one seamless, self-updating platform. Through RI's intuitive interface, users can effortlessly:Create cinema-quality 4K videos on demand: rendering high-resolution video content natively through AI, directly on their device's screen.Compose music tracks at Grammy-worthy quality: generating original songs and instrumentals that meet professional industry standards.Design photorealistic, studio-grade images: from illustrations and concept art to lifelike photos, RI produces visuals suitable for commercial use.Generate and debug software code: handling complex programming tasks and logic, or assisting developers with real-time coding solutions.Conduct advanced research and writing: performing deep analytical reasoning, content generation, and language tasks with human-like proficiency.All these functions operate within a single platform and ecosystem. RI's distributed computing model intelligently coordinates processing across a network of devices and cloud nodes, enabling these heavy workloads without relying on massive, centralized data centers. This approach, eschewing proprietary AI chipsets and energy-hungry server farms in favor of optimized distributed processing, results in lightning-fast performance and an ultra-low environmental footprint. By avoiding the traditional data-center-driven infrastructure of most AI services, RI dramatically cuts power consumption and carbon emissions, making it one of the greenest and most energy-efficient AI platforms in the industry.By bypassing app stores and proprietary channels, ReelTime is capturing one of the largest addressable user bases in tech history. The combined coverage of Android and iOS devices means RI can now engage roughly 5 billion devices worldwide, far surpassing the distribution of any single competitor application. Management believes this unparalleled reach, paired with RI's comprehensive feature set, positions ReelTime's platform in a category of its own. Users benefit from the freedom to access RI's AI on their device of choice, and ReelTime avoids the fees, delays, and rules imposed by external platforms. The result is a win-win: a broadly accessible AI service with superior user experience and a more efficient go-to-market model.To start using RI, iPhone and iPad owners simply visit TryRINow.com on their device's web browser and sign up for a free account, no download, installation, or special permissions needed. For convenience, users can add RI to their home screen, wher
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KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 /AsiaFIN Holdings Corp., (OTCQB:ASFH), a leading fintech financial ecosystem enabler, today announced financial results for the second quarter of 2025, the period ended June 30, 2025.Financial Results for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2025:Cash and cash equivalents were approximately $1.03 million as of June 30, 2025 as compared to approximately $1.31 million as of December 31, 2024.Revenue for the quarter was approximately $1.0 million, an increase of 85.7% compared to $542,000 in the second quarter last year.Gross profit was $312,000, or 30.9% gross margin, compared to gross profit of $54,000, or 10.0% gross margin, in the second quarter last year. The expanded margin is attributed to revenue from new business in Saudi Arabia and improved sales for the Company's OrangeFIN RPA SaaS business.Selling, general and administrative expenses were approximately $523,000, an increase of 60.4% compared to $326,000 in the second quarter last year. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily attributable to higher salary expenses, as the Company recruited more employees to support business expansion initiatives.Net loss was approximately $208,000 a narrowing of 26.9% compared to a loss of approximately $285,000 for the second quarter of 2024.Net loss attributable to common shareholders was approximately $198,000 a narrowing of 29.6% compared to a loss of approximately $281,000 for the second quarter of 2024.Total comprehensive loss was approximately $109,000, or $(0.00) per share, a narrowing of 60.9% compared to a loss of approximately $280,000, or $(0.00) for the second quarter of 2024.CEO of AsiaFIN, KC Wong said, "AsiaFIN continues to make meaningful progress in its initiatives to expand its global reach and addressable market. After significant investments to establish a foothold in the Middle East, which impacted margins and overall profitability in the first quarter, we returned to positive margins and significantly narrowed our losses. The project in Saudi Arabia, our first customer in the region, is progressing on-plan. We are on target to complete Phase 1 by the end of this year, and project invoicing is growing." "Based on this initial success, we are now rolling out our OrangeFIN Robotic Process Automation (RPA) solution, and growth from this solution should help us further narrow losses as we move towards profitability. Global expansion remains a key area of focus for management." "Our RegTech solution achieved a significant milestone with more than 100 eInvoice customers in Malaysia," continued Mr. Wong. "Our INReport e-Invoice platform enables Malaysian companies to comply with the governments new electronic invoicing mandate. Based on this success, we are working to bring this solution to customers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region as part of our land and expand' strategy." About AsiaFIN Holdings Corp.AsiaFIN Holdings Corp. (OTCQB: ASFH), a Nevada corporation, operates through its wholly owned Malaysia, Hong Kong and StarFIN Holdings Ltd subsidiaries. AsiaFIN's mission is to become the "financial ecosystem enabler" through its solutions in Fintech; Regulatory Technology (REGTECH); ESG Consultancy & Reporting and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) services. AsiaFIN provides services to over 90+ financial institutions and over 100 corporate clients in the Asia and Middle East region including Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Thailand, Singapore and Saudi Arabia. AsiaFIN's clients are central banks, financial institutions and large corporation. For further information regarding the company, please visit https://asiafingroup.com Notice Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. By their nature, forward-looking statements and forecasts involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the near future. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of AsiaFIN and members of its management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements.AsiaFIN undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed conditions. Statements in this presentation that are not descriptions of historical facts are forward-looking statements relating to future events, and as such all forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements may contain certain forward-looking statements pertaining to future anticipated or projected plans, performance and developments, as well as other statements relating to future operations and results. Words such as "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "intends," "goal," "objective," "seek," "attempt," "aim to," or variations of these or similar words, identify forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with AsiaFIN's operating history, recent history of losses and profits, ability to adequately protect its software innovations, dependence on key executives, ability to obtain required regulatory approvals, other factors described in AsiaFIN's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other factors as may periodically be described in AsiaFIN's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.[CONTINUES BELOW]ASIAFIN HOLDINGS CORP.UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSSFOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 AND 2024(Currency expressed in United States Dollars ("US$"), except for number of shares or otherwise stated)Three months ended June 30,Six months ended June 30,2025202420252024REVENUE1,007,296542,4751,628,4751,062,228COST OF REVENUE (including $4,169 and $38,202 of cost of service revenue to related party for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively; including $50,198
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 12, 2025 /AXCAP VENTURES INC. ("Axcap" or the "Company") (CSE:AXCP)(OTCID:GARLF) is pleased to announce that the Company and Waterton Nevada Splitter LLC ("Waterton") agreed to extend the milestone payment due on July 15, 2025 to September 30, 2025 pursuant to the milestone payment rights agreement dated July 15, 2024 between Converse Acquisition Company, Limited and Waterton. In consideration of the extension, the Company has issued to Waterton 1,550,000 common shares of the Company (the "Shares"). The Shares are subject to a hold period ending on the date that is four months and a day from the date of issuance.About Axcap Ventures Inc. Axcap Ventures is focused on consolidating neglected resources in the USA and Canada that we believe are constrained by drilling not geology. Our goal is to deliver a portfolio of development ready gold resources into the next gold cycle and to raise capital and grow these neglected orebodies when conventional single asset explorers are shut out of the market.For more information, please visit our website at www.axcapventures.ca On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Mario Vetro"Mario Vetro,Co-Founder & DirectorFor further information, please contact the Company at +1 (604) 687 7130Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information 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.Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.SOURCE: AXCAP VENTURES INC.
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 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 Brands operates in the convenient nutrition category. The Company's primary brands include Premier Protein and Dymatize, which offer ready-to-drink ("RTD") 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.Then, on August 4, 2025, after market hours, BellRing announced disappointing quarterly consumption of Premier Protein RTD Shakes, which had been expected to outpace shipments by a wider margin given previously announced retailer destocking, but instead came "more in line" with shipments. On this news, the price of BellRing Brands stock fell $17.46 per share, or nearly 33%, from $53.64 per share on August 4, 2025, to $36.18 per share on August 5, 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
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Second Quarter HighlightsPer Class B share(3): $1.22 adjusted basic earnings up 8.0%; $1.21 basic earnings down 22.4%; 2024 included $0.44 revaluation gain in basic earningsSales increased 4.8% on 2.0% organic growth, 1.0% acquisition growth and 1.8% positive currency translationOperating income(1) improved 6.1%, with a 16.6% operating margin(1) up 20 bpsReturned $155.8 million to shareholders: $55.8 million in dividends and repurchased 1.3 million Class B shares for $100.0 millionSix-Month HighlightsPer Class B share(3): $2.40 adjusted basic earnings up 8.6%; $2.39 basic earnings down 9.5%; 2024 included $0.44 revaluation gain in basic earningsSales increased 6.7% on 2.9% organic growth, 1.2% acquisition growth and 2.6% positive currency translationOperating income(1) improved 9.1%, with a 16.7% operating margin(1) up 40 bpsReturned $312.1 million to shareholders: $112.1 million in dividends and repurchased 2.6 million Class B shares for $200.0 millionTORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / CCL Industries Inc. ("the Company") (TSX:CCL.A, CCL.B) , a world leader in specialty label, security and packaging solutions for global corporations, government institutions, small businesses and consumers, today reported 2025 second quarter results.Sales for the second quarter of 2025 increased 4.8% to $1,934.6 million, compared to $1,845.6 million for the second quarter of 2024, with organic growth of 2.0%, acquisition-related growth of 1.0% and a 1.8% positive impact from foreign currency translation.Operating income (1) for the second quarter of 2025 improved 6.1% to $322.1 million compared to $303.5 million for the comparable quarter of 2024. Foreign currency translation had a 1.1% positive impact on operating income for the comparable quarters.The Company recorded an expense for restructuring and other items of $0.7 million, primarily attributable to severance cost at Checkpoint, compared to $2.1 million principally related to transaction costs for the acquisition of Pacman in the 2024 second quarter.In the second quarter of 2024, the Company recorded a revaluation gain of $78.1 million, in conjunction with the acquisition of the final 50% interest of Pacman-CCL in June 2024. In accordance with IFRS 3 - Business Combinations, the Company was required to re-measure to fair value its previously held 50% interest in Pacman at the acquisition date resulting in the recognition of the revaluation gain through net earnings.Tax expense for the second quarter of 2025 was $71.4 million compared to $63.6 million in the prior year period. The effective tax rate for the 2025 second quarter was 25.3%, higher than the revaluation gain adjusted 24.5% for the 2024 second quarter due to a higher portion of the Company's taxable income earned in higher tax jurisdictions.Net earnings were $213.1 million for the 2025 second quarter compared to $279.5 million for the 2024 second quarter. Net earnings for the 2024 three-month period included the aforementioned $78.1 million non-cash revaluation gain associated with the Pacman-CCL acquisition. Basic and adjusted basic earnings per Class B share(3) for the 2025 second quarter were $1.21 and $1.22, respectively, compared to basic and adjusted basic earnings per Class B share(3) of $1.56 and $1.13, respectively, in the prior year second quarter. Foreign currency translation had a positive impact of $0.02 on adjusted basic earnings per Class B share.For the six-month period ended June 30, 2025, sales and operating income (1) improved 6.7% and 9.1% to $3.8 billion and $639.0 million, respectively, compared to the same six-month period in 2024. Net earnings for the 2025 six-month period was $420.5 million compared to $471.6 million for the 2024 six-month period that included the aforementioned $78.1 million non-cash revaluation gain. The 2025 six-month period included results from two acquisitions completed since January 1, 2024, delivering acquisition-related sales growth of 1.2%. Organic sales growth was 2.9% and foreign currency translation had a positive 2.6% impact. For the six-month period ended June 30, 2025, basic and adjusted basic earnings per Class B share (3) were $2.39 and $2.40, respectively, compared to basic and adjusted basic earnings per Class B share (3) of $2.64 and $2.21, respectively, in the prior year six-month period. Foreign currency translation had a positive impact of $0.04 on adjusted basic earnings per Class B share.Geoffrey T. Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "Given the difficult external operating conditions, I'm very pleased our people delivered a second consecutive quarter of record adjusted earnings per share. Profitability improvement was driven by strong results from our CCL, Checkpoint and Innovia segments, inclusive of start-up cost for the new large film extrusion facility in Germany and, as expected, a challenging start to the back-to-school season at Avery due to the tariff environment in the United States. All-in, the Company posted a record $1.22 adjusted basic earnings per Class B share (3) for the quarter compared to $1.13 in the prior year period." Mr. Martin stated, "The CCL Segment delivered 4.7% organic sales growth with solid profitability gains. Home & Personal Care sales and profitability increased on continuing robust aluminum container demand in the Americas and the Pacman acquisition in the Middle East, which continues to exceed expectations; label results modestly declined in slow markets elsewhere. Profitability improved for foreign Healthcare markets, but Canadian demand slowed as customers' exports to the United States softened on tariff concerns; robust AgChem results in the United States offset. Food & Beverage profitability declined moderately across all regions due to slower end markets, pricing pressures and new plant start-up costs. Solid demand and new business wins in electronics markets, particularly across Asia, alongside improved profitability in automotive despite slowing demand, drove significant gains for CCL Design. CCL Secure results also improved." Mr. Martin continued, "Although Avery delivered a 19% return on sales this quarter, profitability declined compared to the very strong 2024 second quarter. As expected, unplanned tariff costs announced earlier this year and lower shipments for back-to-school impacted results while the direct-to-consumer channel continued to post gains in North America and Europe. Checkpoint's strong profit improvement derived entirely from MAS products driven by robust performance in Europe on new business wins and despite unrecovered tariff cos
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Connex Credit Union ("Connex") 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 Connex.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On June 3, 2025, Connex became aware of a security incident affecting its internal network. Upon detection, Connex launched an immediate investigation with assistance from third-party cybersecurity experts.The investigation revealed that an unauthorized third party accessed or downloaded files between June 2 and June 3, 2025. Connex reviewed the impacted files to determine what information was compromised and identified affected individuals.The impacted data may include names, Social Security numbers, account numbers, and government-issued IDs.Connex filed a notice of the breach with the California Attorney General on August 7, 2025, and began mailing notification letters to affected individuals on August 6, 2025. 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 Connex Credit Union, 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
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SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB:CVSI) (the "Company", "CV Sciences", "our", "us" or "we"), a preeminent consumer wellness company specializing in hemp extracts and other proven science-backed, natural ingredients and products, today announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.Second Quarter 2025 and Recent Financial and Operating HighlightsGenerated revenue of $3.6 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to $4.0 million for the second quarter 2024 and compared to $3.6 million for the first quarter 2025;Recognized gross margin of 50.9% for the second quarter 2025 compared to 47.0% for the second quarter 2024 and compared to 46.0% for the first quarter 2025; highest gross margin since the third quarter 2019;Cash balance of $0.9 million at quarter end compared to $0.5 million at the end of 2024; andRecognized positive adjusted EBITDA of $0.1 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to an adjusted EBITDA loss of $6,000 for the second quarter 2024 and compared to an adjusted EBITDA loss of $0.3 million for the first quarter 2025; first positive adjusted EBITDA since the second quarter 2019."We are pleased with our second quarter 2025 results. Our gross margin of 50.9% in the second quarter 2025 is our best gross margin in the last 23 quarters. We anticipate further gross margin improvements in the second half of 2025. We are working diligently to achieve organic growth through new product development while continuing to pursue additional M&A opportunities to improve our top-line revenue, profitability and cash flow," stated Joseph Dowling, Chief Executive Officer of CV Sciences. "We generated our first positive adjusted EBITDA since the second quarter of 2019, which demonstrates our cost-efficient execution as we move closer to profitability and positive cash flow on a consistent basis. We are also making good progress on in-sourcing production of many of our current products through our acquisition of Elevated Softgels, which will help to further improve our gross margin over time. In addition, our continuous commitment to innovation will diversify our product offering and help mitigate some of the challenges we face with the uncertain state and federal regulatory environment for the CBD category. We look forward to a more balanced product portfolio through further new product development and M&A opportunities that will help to improve our top-line revenue, profitability and shareholder value." Operating Results - Second Quarter 2025 Compared to Second Quarter 2024Sales for second quarter 2025 were $3.6 million, a decrease of 8% from $4.0 million in the second quarter 2024. The decline is primarily due to lower sales volume. State regulatory pressure is the primary reason for the decline in sales volume. The total number of units sold during second quarter 2025 decreased by 7.0%. In addition, average sales prices decreased by 2.8%. 39% of our net revenue for the second quarter 2025 was from new products launched since January 1, 2023. During this time period, we launched 34 new products.We generated an operating loss of $0.1 million in the second quarter 2025, compared to an operating loss of $0.6 million in the second quarter 2024. The improvement is mostly due to reduced selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company had positive adjusted EBITDA of $0.1 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to negative adjusted EBITDA of $6,000 in the second quarter 2024.Conference Call and WebcastThe Company will host a conference call and webcast to discuss these results today at 4:30 pm EDT/1:30 pm PDT. The webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at https://ir.cvsciences.com/news-events or directly at https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1727552&tp_key=38f7de0673 . Investors interested in participating in the live call can also dial (877) 407-0784 from the U.S. or international callers can dial (201) 689-8560. A telephone replay will be available approximately three hours after the call concludes, and will be available through Wednesday, August 20, 2025, by dialing (844) 512-2921 from the U.S. or (412) 317-6671 from international locations, and entering confirmation code 13754956.About CV Sciences, Inc.CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB:CVSI) is a consumer wellness company specializing in nutraceuticals and plant-based foods. The Company's hemp extracts and other proven, science-backed, natural ingredients and products are sold through a range of sales channels from B2B to B2C. The Company's +PlusCBD branded products are sold at select retail locations throughout the U.S. and are the top-selling hemp-extract brand in the natural products market, according to SPINS, the leading provider of syndicated data and insights for the natural, organic and specialty products industry. With a commitment to science, PlusCBD product benefits in healthy people are supported by human clinical research data, in addition to three published clinical case studies available on PubMed.gov . +PlusCBD was the first hemp extract supplement brand to invest in the scientific evidence necessary to receive self-affirmed Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status. The Company also produces cannabinoid-free supplements under its +PlusHLTH brand, with targeted formulations to optimize health, improve performance, and increase vitality. Our Cultured Foods brand provides a variety of 100% plant-based food products that are distributed primarily in the EU and other select markets. Cultured Foods caters to individuals seeking vegan, gluten-free, or flexitarian options for a wholesome and satisfying culinary experience. In addition, the Company owns Elevated Softgels, a leading manufacturer of encapsulated softgels and tinctures for the supplement and nutrition industry. CV Sciences, Inc. has primary offices and facilities in San Diego, California, Grand Junction, Colorado, and Warsaw, Poland. Additional information is available from OTCMarkets.com or by visiting www.cvsciences.com Forward Looking StatementsThis press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements by definition involve risk and uncertainties. CV Scien
By Maggie Fick, Andrea Shalal and Dave Graham

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The announcement by President Donald Trump's administration of the results of a probe into pharmaceutical imports and new sector-specific U.S. tariffs likely remains weeks away, four official and industry sources said, later than initially promised as he focuses on other matters.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had said in April when the review of whether reliance on foreign drug production threatens U.S. national security was launched that he anticipated that it would conclude between mid-May and mid-June. Global pharmaceutical companies are bracing for the outcome of the investigation, which will usher in sector-specific tariffs that Trump has said could start small and eventually rise to 250%.

The Republican president said as recently as last week that his plan relies on phased-in tariffs, giving drugmakers time to increase manufacturing in the United States as he pushes to alter what he says are global trade distortions in many industries.

One government official in Europe and a source with knowledge of the White House process, as well as two sources at European drug firms familiar with the process, told Reuters that the report and tariffs announcement was not imminent and likely weeks away. These sources spoke on condition of anonymity.

A White House spokesperson, asked about media reporting indicating that the results of the probe could be several weeks away, cautioned that such reports were pure speculation unless confirmed by the White House. The spokesperson declined to give further details about the timing of the pharma probe or one involving semiconductors.

The investigation is examining pharmaceutical imports ranging from finished prescription drugs to active pharmaceutical ingredients, called APIs, and other raw materials, with the results to be disclosed in a Commerce Department report.

Lutnick said last month the tariff plan that will be based on the report would be completed by the end of July. Lutnick then said on July 29 it would be two more weeks.

The investigation was launched under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. While the investigation is ongoing, the pharmaceutical sector has been exempted from the sweeping tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

The United States has reached bilateral trade deals with the UK, Japan, South Korea and the European Union that promised more favorable terms for their pharma exports than those expected to be levied on the sector globally.

A European government official said that an announcement before the end of August appears unlikely but cautioned that the timeline could shift depending on other developments.
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BATON ROUGE, LA / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / DLC, in partnership with DRA Advisors, has acquired Towne Center at Cedar Lodge, a market-dominant, Whole Foods-anchored open-air shopping center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The 316,031-square-foot property is 93 percent leased and anchored by a top-performing Whole Foods Market-the No. 2 Whole Foods in the state - alongside national retailers including Barnes & Noble, Nike, Gap, and Ulta Beauty. Bell Tower Fort Myers, Florida Bell Tower Fort Myers, FloridaTowne Center at Cedar Lodge recorded over 3.3 million total visits last year, underscoring its status as the best grocery-anchored center in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Strategically located at the high-traffic corner of Jefferson Highway (27,700 VPD) and Corporate Boulevard (22,500 VPD) with access to I-10, I-12, and Airline Highway, the property benefits from strong surrounding demographics and close proximity to Louisiana State University (LSU), home to more than 40,000 students. Towne Center at Cedar Lodge is in the top 10 percent of shopping centers nationwide and in the top 6 percent of shopping centers statewide"Towne Center at Cedar Lodge is the type of retail asset we target-dominant positioning, high-performing national anchors, and meaningful value-add opportunities," said Adam Ifshin, Founder and CEO of DLC. "Our platform's full range of capabilities, from leasing and marketing to construction and redevelopment, positions us to build on its strong foundation and elevate its performance for years to come." Immediate upside potential includes lease-up of existing vacancies, mark-to-market renewals, credit enhancement opportunities, and potential backfills. Additionally, a planned 286-unit multifamily development adjacent to the center is expected to further increase foot traffic and long-term value."We are excited to expand our relationship with DLC through this strategic acquisition and look forward to working together to unlock the full potential of this asset," said Brett Gottlieb, Senior Managing Director at DRA Advisors. "The property's strong in-place cash flow, combined with meaningful long-term upside, makes it a compelling fit for our investment strategy and underscores our continued conviction in partnering with best-in-class operators like DLC." "Our team excels at positioning assets for growth," said Chris Ressa, Chief Operating Officer of DLC. "At Towne Center at Cedar Lodge, we have a strong vision for unlocking value through active leasing, mark-to-market opportunities, and creative solutions for repositioning vacancy." Since December 2023, DLC has closed 11 deals with its co-General Partner, Temerity Strategic Partners, which has committed growth capital to help DLC expand its assets by $2 billion by 2026.###About DLCDLC is a preeminent owner and operator of open-air shopping centers across the United States, with a proven track record of delivering value through innovative asset management strategies and strategic acquisitions. For more information, visit www.dlcmgmt.com About DRA AdvisorsDRA Advisors LLC is a New York-based registered investment advisor with approximately 100 employees that specializes in real estate investment management services for institutional and private investors including pension funds, university endowments, sovereign wealth funds, foundations, and insurance companies. Since DRA's inception in 1986, the firm has opened additional offices in Miami and San Francisco and has acquired over $41 billion of real estate. Its acquisitions include 100 million square feet of industrial, 86,500 multifamily units, 89 million square feet of retail, and 65 million square feet of office. As of December 31, 2024, DRA had $11.1 billion in gross assets under management. http://draadvisors.com Contact InformationArlene KimVice President, Marketingakim@ dlcmgmt.com SOURCE: DLC
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At 85th National Convention in Columbus, Ohio, Organization Celebrates 90 Years of Visionary LeadershipCOLUMBUS, OHIO / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC, Inc.) proudly announces the re-election of Dr. Terri O'Neal Ford of Dallas, Texas, as National President during its 85th National Convention. The event also marked the organization's 90th Anniversary, celebrated under the theme: "Celebrating 90 Years of Visionary Leadership: Moving Forward, Breaking Barriers, Driving Change!"Dr. Ford, originally elected as the 25th National President in 2023, will continue with her national theme: "Moving Forward With A Purpose: Exceeding the Vision, Breaking Barriers, Empowering Change." During her State of the Association address, Dr. Ford affirmed, "This Association is just as needed now in 2025 as it was in 1935. Ninety years later, the world has changed-but the need for NANBPWC, Inc. has only grown. What our Founders began in 1935 remains essential in 2025."Founded by seven visionary Black women during the Great Depression, NANBPWC, Inc. has spent nine decades advancing economic empowerment, professional development, and community service across generations of Black women leaders. The Association remains committed to supporting Black women in business and the professions, bridging youth into the workforce, improving quality of life, and fostering fellowship.Under Dr. Ford's leadership, the Association has prioritized financial sustainability, launched national forums, strengthened digital engagement, and expanded programming through its L.E.T.S. model-Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Service.Dr. Ford is a seasoned higher education and compliance professional. She currently serves as Assistant to the President at Tarrant County College - Northeast Campus. A lifelong learner and mentor, she holds a Ph.D. in Family Studies from Texas Woman's University and has presented nationally on aging in African American communities.For more information on NANBPWC, Inc. or to get involved, visitwww.nanbpwc.org Media Contact:Tracy Scott National Office - NANBPWC, Inc.Email:officemanager@nanbpwc.orgPhone: (202) 483-4206 Web: www.nanbpwc.org SOURCE: NANBPWC, Inc.
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IRAEmpire has published a detailed guide on selling a HVAC business to help consumers generate maximum profit when they sell their business.HOUSTON, TX / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / IRAEmpire.com has published a new, in-depth guide tailored specifically for HVAC business owners looking to sell their companies. This expert resource walks sellers through every stage of the process - from initial valuation to final closing - with a focus on the unique considerations and opportunities in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.The guide is designed for HVAC company owners, family-run service businesses, and entrepreneurs planning an exit within the next 12-24 months. With industry-specific insights, it addresses operational, legal, and financial details that can make or break a deal, while offering strategies to maximize sale price and minimize risk.Check Out the Full Business Selling Guide here.What Makes the HVAC Market Different The HVAC industry is experiencing unusually strong buyer interest, fueled by its status as an essential service, predictable recurring maintenance revenue, and the accelerating shift toward energy-efficient and smart climate-control systems. These factors make HVAC businesses resilient, even during economic slowdowns, which attracts both institutional investors and strategic acquirers. Private equity firms, regional consolidators, and even direct competitors are seeking well-run operations with strong customer bases, service contracts, and skilled technicians. However, successfully selling an HVAC company requires far more than simply putting it on the market. It calls for a deliberate strategy to highlight the company's earnings stability, growth potential, and competitive advantages - all while protecting confidentiality and positioning the business for maximum buyer competition.Inside IRAEmpire's HVAC Business Selling Guide The newly released guide moves beyond generic selling advice and dives into the realities of HVAC transactions. It includes:Step-by-step preparation checklist - From cleaning up financial records and organizing service contracts to documenting equipment inventory and service history.Valuation strategies specific to HVAC companies - Understanding how recurring maintenance agreements, fleet condition, technician certifications, and geographic coverage impact your business's worth.Proven ways to attract serious buyers - How to market to private equity firms, strategic acquirers, and local competitors without losing confidentiality.Negotiation and deal structuring tips - Including earn-out provisions, employee retention clauses, and non-compete agreements tailored to service-based industries.Common pitfalls to avoid - From undervaluing long-term service contracts to overpromising growth potential during due diligence.Legal and tax planning essentials - How to structure the sale for maximum after-tax proceeds while staying compliant with state licensing requirements."Selling an HVAC business is different from selling a retail shop or a tech startup," said Ryan Paulson, spokesperson for IRAEmpire.com . "There are operational assets, skilled labor considerations, and long-term service contracts that directly influence value. This guide is built to help owners showcase their strengths, avoid costly mistakes, and close a deal with confidence." Consumers can Read the Free Business Selling Guide Here.Why the Timing Is Right The HVAC sector is entering one of the strongest seller's markets in recent years. Demand for high-efficiency heating and cooling systems is growing as homeowners and businesses respond to rising energy costs, stricter environmental regulations, and incentives for eco-friendly upgrades. At the same time, a national shortage of skilled HVAC technicians has made established companies with trained staff and reliable service teams especially attractive to buyers.On the demographic side, many baby boomer owners are preparing to retire, increasing the volume of quality businesses hitting the market. This, combined with active acquisition strategies from private equity groups and regional consolidators, means serious buyers are competing for limited opportunities. Prepared sellers stand to secure premium valuations, faster closings, and more favorable deal terms.Leveling the Playing Field for Sellers IRAEmpire's guide aims to give independent HVAC owners the same strategic insight, tools, and market awareness that corporate buyers and seasoned investors typically bring to the negotiation table. In most transactions, buyers arrive armed with teams of attorneys, accountants, and industry analysts who know exactly how to identify undervalued assets and push for favorable terms. Many small business owners, by contrast, enter the process unprepared - unsure how to quantify the true value of their recurring maintenance agreements, how to present their brand's market reputation, or how to counter aggressive deal structures.This imbalance often leads to lower sale prices, longer closing timelines, and unnecessary concessions. The IRAEmpire HVAC Selling Guide changes that dynamic. It gives sellers a clear playbook for preparing financial statements, calculating industry-specific valuation multiples, showcasing the strength of their workforce, and protecting their client lists. It also teaches owners how to anticipate buyer concerns and respond with data-backed answers that build trust while preserving leverage.By translating complex legal, tax, and negotiation strategies into actionable steps, the guide ensures HVAC business owners can navigate the sale process with confidence, maximize their final payout, and walk away knowing they received the value their business truly deserves.Be Sure to Read the Full Business Selling Guide Here.About IRAEmpire.com IRAEmpire.com is an independent platform dedicated to helping individuals build, protect, and transition wealth. Known for its clear, no-fluff educational resources, the site covers retirement planning, alternative assets, small business ownership, and succession strategies. IRAEmpire's mission is to make complex financial decisions simple, strategic, and profitable for its readers.Media Contact: Ryan Paulson ryan@ iraempire.com SOURCE: IRAEmpire LLC
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / PDI Health recently discovered that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal and protected health information entrusted to PDI Health.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On May 14, 2025, PDI Health discovered a security breach involving its internal systems. An unauthorized party accessed and extracted sensitive data, compromising patient records. The impacted data may include names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, billing information, electronic medical records (EMRs), test results, and medical history.The ransomware group Everest claimed responsibility for the attack on the dark web. 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 PDI Health, 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
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TOKYO, JP / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Kintetsu World Express, Inc. (Tokyo, Japan) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a new agreement with Shell Aviation, regarding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).KWE and Shell Aviation jointly participated in the market based measures framework pilot demonstration programme conducted by Smart Freight Centre in 2023. Since then, we have been engaged in discussions to establish a secure and convenient mechanism for the use of SAF's environmental benefits by aviation stakeholders, including freight forwarders and shippers, engaging in air freight activities.Under this agreement, we will adopt Shell Aviation's digital platform "Avelia" to swiftly address shippers' low-carbon transportation needs. Avelia will help KWE to access the environmental benefits of SAF even when SAF is not physically available at their locations. It also offers a transparent, secure, and credible blockchain platform that ensures traceability, and helps to prevent erroneous double counting.Tatsuya Narasaki, Managing Officer at Kintetsu World Express, stated, "We have identified the reduction of CO2 emissions and the promotion of renewable energy use as key sustainability challenges. To mitigate the environmental impact of our global operations, we are working to reduce CO2 emissions not only in Japan but also around the world. We are pleased to announce that our near-term and long-term net-zero emissions reduction targets have been formally approved by SBTi. SAF is a key component of our concrete efforts, and our collaboration with Shell Aviation represents a significant step forward for us." Doris Tan, Head of Shell Aviation, Asia Pacific and Middle East, stated, "We value our collaboration with KWE since the early days of the Smart Freight Centre's market based measures pilot. Through Avelia, we aim to accelerate SAF adoption and provide companies like KWE with a clear, scalable pathway to credible life cycle GHG emissions reductions* from aviation. This agreement marks another important step in making low-carbon air transport a reality for cargo stakeholders in Asia and beyond." *For more information about Avelia, please visit: https://aveliasolutions.com/ *Compared to conventional jet fuelContact Information Mike Trejo (310) 627-3129SOURCE: Kintetsu World Express
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 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
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 12, 2025 /WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) between May 7, 2025 and July 28, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). 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 30, 2025.SO WHAT: If you purchased Novo Nordisk securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Novo Nordisk class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34168 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 30, 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. 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 provided overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Novo Nordisk's growth potential. Notably, Novo Nordisk's asserted potential to capitalize on the compounded market greatly understated the potential impact of the personalization exception to the compounded GLP-1 exclusion and overstated the likelihood that such patients would switch to Novo Nordisk's branded alternatives. Further, defendants greatly overstated the potential GLP-1 market or otherwise, Novo's capability to penetrate said markets to achieve continued growth. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Novo Nordisk class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34168 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.
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 12, 2025 /WHY: 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.
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HALIFAX, NS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Silver Tiger Metals Inc. (TSXV:SLVR)(OTCQX:SLVTF) ("Silver Tiger" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce preliminary results from its 2025 Summer Exploration Program on the prospective Northern Veins, located 2 kilometers North of the historic El Tigre Mine and outlines initial exploration plans to test several undrilled greenfield areas on the Southern Veins on its 100% owned, silver-gold El Tigre Project (the "Project" or "El Tigre") located in Sonora, Mexico. Current exploration work consists of mapping and sampling both surface and historic underground workings to define drill ready targets for Q4-2025.Glenn Jessome, President & CEO stated "As we get nearer to making a construction decision for the open pit portion of the El Tigre Project and with our technical team nearing completion of the underground PEA in coming weeks, we are advancing our summer exploration program. We are currently exploring the prospective area north of the historic El Tigre Mine through focused mapping and sampling of both historic core and underground workings. We will soon begin similar exploration on the Southern Veins." Mr. Jessome further stated, "The Northern Veins, a faulted offset of the veins at the historic El Tigre Mine, show the same structure, mineralogy, grades and orientations as the well-defined veins around the historic El Tigre Mine on which our PFS and pending underground PEA are based. With the initial 10 kilometers of mapped vein strike length we have to the North and recent assay results we are disclosing today, we see the potential to drill these Northern Veins in our Winter 2025 program." Exploration Objectives 2025Begin drilling on Northern Veins in Q4-2025Generate drill targets in the Southern Veins at Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro through analysis of old mining worksWith 25 kilometers of mapped vein strike complete, which is 50% of the project area, the Corporation intends to increase mapping coverage to 70%Overview - VeinsThe El Tigre historic mine district is located in Sonora, Mexico and lies at the northern end of the Sierra Madre silver and gold belt which hosts many epithermal silver and gold deposits, including Dolores, Santa Elena and Las Chispas. The high-grade epithermal veins dip steeply to the west, and are typically 0.5 metres wide, and locally can be up to 5 metres in width. Over 25 kilometers of these veins at El Tigre have been mapped along strike on surface. Based on the extensive historic workings, the veins are inferred to extend to more than 450 metres depth with many veins reaching strike length of 3 kilometers or more. At the El Tigre property there are both brownfields and greenfields targets defined by extensive Silver Tiger drilling. Silver Tiger has found over 60 small-scale workings in addition to the historic El Tigre Mine.The El Tigre Mine Veins contain over 90% of the Corporation's Measured and Indicated Resource and is the focus area of the PFS and pending PEA. The El Tigre Vein, the Seitz Kelly Vein and the Sooy Vein (the "El Tigre Mine Veins") have over 10 kilometers of combined vein strike length of which only 50% is drill tested. Gold was first discovered in 1896 with mining beginning soon after on the El Tigre Mine Veins (Figure 1). Significant underground mining took place with over 32 kilometers of development completed before mine closure with a reported 353,000 ounces of gold and 67.4 million ounces of silver extracted at an average grade of over 2 kilograms silver equivalent per ton.The Corporation's Drill Hole ET-21-264, returned assays up to 82,827.3 g/t silver equivalent over 0.5 metres proximal to historically mining stopes, showing high-grade vein mineralization continues at depth and along strike (see the Corporation's press release dated Nov 9, 2021).Figure 1: El Tigre Project - Northern and Southern Exploration TargetsThe Northern Vein Area has over 10 kilometers of combined strike length confirmed by surface mapping and sampling, drilling and the presence of underground workings mainly on the Fundadora, Protectora and Caleigh Veins. This area is considered brownfields with 15% of the mapped strike of veins being drilled. These veins are the faulted offset of the El Tigre Mine Veins and exhibit the same structure, mineralogy, grades, orientations, strike length and width (1-2 metres) as the well-defined El Tigre Mine Veins that account for bulk of the Corporation's Mineral Resource Estimate.The Southern Veins which includes Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro is considered greenfields with veins striking for over 10 kilometers and no drilling ever conducted on this area. This prospective area is evidenced by historic workings and high-grade channel sampling. The El Toro, Lluvia de Oro and La Mancha Veins are hosted in the El Tigre Formation, a permissive formation that is the host for the Stockwork Zone, which is the basis of the Company's PFS (see the Corporation's Press Release dated October 22, 2024).Figure 2: Current Sampling of Historic Workings - Northern VeinsNorthern Veins - 2025 Summer Exploration Plan - Brownfields TargetsExploration crews have begun to locate, catalog, map and sample historic adits and drifts in the Northern Veins (Figure 2). This work is aimed at confirming the geological similarities of the Northern Vein mineralized systems to the well-established El Tigre, Seitz-Kelly and Sooy Veins. Once assessment of the historic workings is complete all adits and drifts will be scanned with a LiDAR-capable drone. For the remainder of the summer, Silver Tiger will continue to define targets to drill in Q4-2025.After surveying the tunnels, the geologists mapped the veins and then collected chip samples across the veins at intervals between 3 to 5 metres along the length of the tunnel. The samples were chipped with a rock hammer across the face of the vein exposed in the tunnel. The minimum length of the samples was 0.50 metres, and the samples weighed approximately 3 to 5 kg. Sampling was stopped at either the end of the tunnel or when access was restricted due to ground conditions. Of the 110 chip samples collected, the chip sample assay results received to date are set out in the table below (see Table 1 and Figure 2 for Sample Location).As work progresses on the Northern Veins, exploration crews will begin analysing Lluvia de Oro, La Mancha and El Toro on the Southern Veins.Table 1: Significant Channel Samples on Northern VeinsVeinChannel IDSamplesFromToInterval(1)Sample #AuAgAgEq(2)g/tg/tg/tFundadoraETL-2078Composite: ETS-4847/4848/48490.01.61.60.15464476FundadoraETL-2078Including: ETS-48491.11.60.5
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THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp. (TSXV:PGE)(OTCQB:PGEZF)(FSE:J0G), (the "Company", or "Stillwater") is pleased to announce that on August 12, 2025 (the "Closing Date") it closed the non-brokered private placement financing of units of the Company (the "Units") previously announced on July 15, 2025, July 28, 2025 and August 8, 2025, resulting in gross proceeds of $401,976.06 via the issuance of 1,747,722 Units at a price of $0.23 per Unit (the "Additional Offering"). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of C$0.34 at any time on or before that date which is 36 months following August 12, 2025.The Additional Offering follows the closing of the $7 million brokered LIFE offering (the "LIFE Offering"), which closed in two tranches on June 25, 2025 and July 15, 2025, respectively. Glencore Canada Corporation ("Glencore"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Glencore plc, exercised in part its participation rights in connection with the LIFE Offering and Additional Offering and acquired 6,000,000 units at a price of $0.23 per unit for gross proceeds of $1,380,000, on the same or similar terms as the units under the LIFE Offering and Additional Offering (the "Glencore Offering"). The Glencore Offering closed on August 13, 2025.In aggregate, under the LIFE Offering, the Additional Offering and the Glencore Offering (together, the "Offerings"), the Company has raised gross funds of more than $8.78 million since the initial June 25, 2025 closing. If the Warrants under the Offerings are exercised in full, it would provide the Company with over an additional $6.4 million in funding.The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Additional Offering and the Glencore Offering for the exploration and advancement of the Company's flagship Stillwater West Ni-PGE-Cu-Co+Au project in the Stillwater mining district in Montana, U.S., for a lesser exploration program at its Kluane critical minerals project in Yukon, Canada, and for general corporate purposes and working capital.Certain directors and/or officers of the Company acquired 294,002 Units under the Additional Offering. Such acquisitions and Glencore's exercise of its participation rights and acquisition of Units constitute "related party transactions" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The transactions are exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the securities to be issued, nor the fair market value of the consideration for the securities to be issued, insofar as it involves such insiders, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company will file a material change report in respect of the LIFE Offering, Additional Offering and Glencore Offering. However, the material change report was not filed prior to the Closing of such offerings as insider participation had yet to be confirmed and the Company wished to close such offerings as expeditiously as possible.All securities issued pursuant to the Additional Offering and the Glencore Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from August 12, 2025 and August 13, 2025, respectively, in accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). No finders' fees are payable on any portion of the Additional Offering or the Glencore Offering. The Additional Offering and the Glencore Offering remain subject to the final acceptance of the TSX-V.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 "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons, absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws.About Stillwater Critical Minerals Corp.Stillwater Critical Minerals (TSXV:PGE)(OTCQB:PGEZF)(FSE:J0G) is a resource-stage mineral exploration company focused on its flagship Stillwater West Ni-PGE-Cu-Co + Au project in the iconic and famously productive Stillwater mining district in Montana, USA. With the addition of two renowned Bushveld and Platreef geologists to the team and strategic investments by Glencore plc, the Company is well positioned to advance the next phase of large-scale critical mineral supply from this world-class American district, building on past production of nickel, copper, and chromium, and the on-going production of platinum group, nickel, and other metals by neighboring Sibanye Stillwater. An expanded NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate, released January 2023, positions Stillwater West with the largest nickel-platinum group element resource in an active U.S. mining district as part of a compelling suite of ten minerals now listed as critical in the USA.Stillwater also holds a 49% interest in the high-grade Drayton-Black Lake gold project adjacent to NexGold Mining's development-stage Goliath Gold Complex in northwest Ontario, currently under an earn-in agreement with Heritage Mining, and the Kluane PGE-Ni-Cu-Co critical minerals project on trend with Nickel Creek Platinum's Wellgreen deposit in Canada's Yukon Territory. The Company also holds the Duke Island Cu-Ni-PGE property in Alaska and maintains a back-in right on the high-grade past-producing Yankee-Dundee mine in BC.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:Michael Rowley, President, CEO & Director - Stillwater Critical MineralsEmail: info@ criticalminerals.com Phone: (604) 357 4790Web: https://criticalminerals.com Toll Free: (888) 432 0075Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, w
Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) is one of the best commodity stocks to buy. The stock delivered a major operational achievement this month. On August 8, 2025, the company began production from its fourth floating oil production vessel, One Guyana, located in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. Part of the Yellowtail development, the vessel boosts Exxons total installed production capacity in the region to more than 900,000 barrels per day and achieved startup four months ahead of schedule.

The company described the project as a demonstration of its execution capability, efficiency, and commitment to developing Guyanas vast offshore resources. The crude produced will be marketed under the Golden Arrowhead name, and the milestone pushes Exxon closer to its goal of reaching 1.7 million barrels per day from Guyana by 2030.

Exxon Hits Major Milestone in Guyana with Early Startup of Fourth Oil Vessel

Katherine Welles / Shutterstock.com

Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM) is a global energy leader engaged in oil and gas exploration, production, refining, and chemical manufacturing, with a growing portfolio in low-carbon technologies. The company operates in more than 60 countries and manages an integrated value chain that spans from upstream production to downstream fuels and specialty products. Its Guyana projects have become a cornerstone of its growth strategy, offering high-margin barrels and long-term production stability.

While we acknowledge the potential of AGCO 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.
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OTTAWA, ON / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Westend Academy (Ottawa School of Beauty Ltd), a locally owned and operated beauty school, has won the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in the School - Hair Styling & Esthetics category for Ottawa. This recognition reflects the school's long-standing commitment to excellence in beauty education, empowering students to build rewarding careers in hairstyling, esthetics, and medical spa services.With campuses in Ottawa and London, Ontario, Westend Academy has earned a reputation as a top-tier cosmetology institution offering full-time OSAP-eligible diploma programs. The Academy specializes in hands-on, real-client salon and spa training that prepares graduates to enter the workforce confident, experienced, and job-ready.Award-Winning Education Backed by ExperienceFounded in 1998, Westend Academy provides students with real-world learning environments that mimic professional settings. Students perform services for paying clients under the guidance of experienced instructors, gaining the technical skills, client service abilities, and speed that today's employers demand."We pride ourselves on producing graduates who are well-trained, adaptable, and ready to contribute on day one," says the Westend Academy team. "This award reflects the dedication of our instructors and the success of our students." Small Class Sizes, Personalized MentorshipWestend Academy maintains a low student-to-instructor ratio, allowing for more personalized feedback and mentorship. With expert instructors like Phil Weaver (Executive Director with 30+ years in the salon industry), Terry Ralph (Barbering & Hairstyling instructor since 2003), and Mira Dayfallah (Medical Esthetics instructor with 20+ years of experience), students are guided by professionals who bring deep industry knowledge and passion to the classroom.Programs Designed for Career SuccessThe Academy offers comprehensive training across multiple programs:Professional HairstylingBarberingEsthetics & Advanced Skin CareMedical Esthetics & Spa TherapiesCourses are continuously updated to match the demands of the beauty and wellness industry, integrating the latest tools, digital resources, and product innovations. Students train with industry-leading equipment and multimedia instruction, preparing them for a range of careers in beauty, wellness, and spa management.Hands-On Experience That Makes a DifferenceFrom the first week of class, students work in Westend Academy's operational salon and spa clinics-gaining real experience with clients in haircuts, coloring, skincare, waxing, massage, facials, laser treatments, and more. This immersive approach not only improves technical proficiency but helps students build speed, confidence, and professionalism before they graduate.Job Placement & Continued SupportGraduates benefit from the Academy's strong industry network and dedicated Job Connect program, which helps place students in salons, spas, and medi-spa clinics across Ontario. Alumni frequently return to share success stories or hire future grads, reinforcing the school's strong community ties.For entrepreneurial students, Westend Academy offers guidance in salon ownership, branding, and customer management-empowering future beauty professionals to become business leaders.Accessible, Supported LearningAll diploma programs are eligible for OSAP, and the Academy offers tuition payment plans and financial aid options. As a registered career college under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, Westend Academy ensures its programs meet high standards in both academic and hands-on training.Commitment That Builds CareersThe 2025 Consumer Choice Award reflects the trust Ottawa students and families place in Westend Academy's training model. With more than 25 years of success and thousands of alumni in the field, the school remains committed to building confident, skilled professionals who are ready to make their mark."This recognition means everything to us," the team says. "It represents the trust our students and community place in our school, and we'll continue to raise the bar for beauty education in Ottawa and beyond." About Westend Academy: Westend Academy (Ottawa School of Beauty Ltd) is a leading beauty school offering diploma programs in hairstyling, barbering, esthetics, and medical esthetics. With two campuses in Ottawa and London, the Academy delivers hands-on, real-client training in a professional environment. Westend Academy is registered under the Ontario Career Colleges Act and offers OSAP-eligible programs, small class sizes, and strong career placement support. To learn more about Westend Academy's award-winning programs, visit beautyacademy.ca or explore their CCA Page.About Consumer Choice Award: Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence in North America since 1987. Its rigorous selection process ensures that only the most outstanding service providers in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Visit www.ccaward.com to learn more.Contact Information: Sumi SalehCommunications Manager ssaleh@ ccaward.com SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award
Nigerian rap star Mr Incredible, or MI, has linked fraudsters known as Yahoo Boys to music financing.

As an artiste, MI has never been known to shy away from problematic discourse.

So, it came as no surprise that the record label executive, who was a guest on the So Nigerian podcast, posited that the proceeds of fraud mostly fund the Nigerian music industry.

This position is not new. In 2017, the rap icon gave a shoutout to Yahoo Boys on the Loose Talk podcast, praying for God to prosper their business.

Theres no bank in the history of Nigeria that has given one Naira to any label. Theres one corporate entity that has given any label. Its young guys. Youre more likely to get money from a Yahoo boyShout-out to Yahoo boys. May God prosper your business, he said.

Three years ago, music journalist and podcaster Joey Akan stirred controversy when he posited that the Afrobeats Hall of Fame owes a chunk of its success to the support of fraudsters.

Afrobeats Hall of Fame will never be complete without honorary mentions to Yahoo boys who funded and kept an industry with no institutional or corporate funding alive. Its a reality we hate to admit, but huge parts of Nigerian music history and success were built on cybercrime, he wrote on X, which was then known as Twitter.

Indictment

Speaking on the So Nigerian podcast, which discussed financial sustainability for creatives in the music industry, MI said that funding for creatives generates controversy because many artistes depend on fraudulent money for funding.

Im trying to say that its an indictment on our country that we have such talented musicians and that the significant funding for the industry comes from the West and this other industry.

Its an indictment. It shows something is wrong, so hopefully we can do better, he said.

Providing context to his statement, the former Chocolate City boss said that fraudsters are not obliged to give the proceeds of their activities to an artiste.

According to him, thats one of the significant ways that artistes can get investment into the industry.

Lets say Im a Yahoo boy. Im not, but lets say I was, and I just made a hundred million. Im now a criminal who made a hundred million. I still dont have to give it to an artist. I can blow it how I want to blow it. I can put it in real estate.

What Im trying to say is that the fact that it goes to artists, thats one of the major ways that artists can make money to get investment into the industry. Theres no place else. It has to be other young people who just so happen to have money, he said.

He further noted that society will criticise the method of how they got the money, but what is relevant is that there are young people who have money, who are just trying to help, because they are seeing their talented friend.

The rap star, who once changed his name to The Guy, stated that bad is bad and evil is evil.
Nigerian media personality, Toke Makinwa, has announced that she is expecting her first child.

In an Instagram post, she described the news as the biggest project of my life, the highest calling ever.

Reflecting on her journey, the 40-year-old media personality wrote, The biggest project of my life, the highest calling ever! 2025. What a difference a year can make. You make all things beautiful in your time, and this is just perfect.

In a video shared alongside the announcement, she showcased her baby bump and confirmed she is expecting her first child.

In her lengthy Instagram caption, Makinwa expressed profound gratitude to God, acknowledging this moment as a testament to divine timing and faithfulness, Ive worn so many hats over the years, but this one trumps it all, and Im so humbled to have been chosen. You get to see me as a Mother; I get to raise my own. Na me be this? Hallelujah.

She described her unborn child as the greatest reflection of Gods grace. She added, My bug, I cannot wait to meet you, youve made me the happiest person on earth. Thank you for choosing me.

Toke Makinwa, a celebrated Nigerian media figure, is renowned as a radio host, TV presenter, vlogger, entrepreneur, author, and fashion influencer.

She gained prominence hosting The Morning Drive on Rhythm 93.7 FM and later launched her widely followed YouTube vlog series, Toke Moments.

In 2016, she penned her memoir  Becoming, which became a best-seller and solidified her as a leading voice in African media.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, has asked Ibom Air and ValueJet, whose officials were involved in separate controversies with two passengers, to withdraw their complaints against them.

Comfort Emmanson, the passenger of Ibom Air, was forcefully removed from the aircraft on Sunday at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos for allegedly assaulting a crew member.

She was remanded at Kirikiri Prison in Lagos after the airline pressed charges against her. Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) also imposed a lifetime no-fly ban against her.

This newspaper reported that the music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as KWAM I, allegedly insisted on taking an alcoholic drink on board a ValueJet airline despite the caution by officials of the airline.

KWAM 1 allegedly tried to physically prevent the aircraft from taking off and was almost hit by the aircraft when the pilot proceeded to taxi in preparation for takeoff.

The incident led the aviation regulator, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to suspend the two pilots involved, while the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) imposed a six-month flying ban on KWAM 1.

The NCAA has petitioned the inspector general of police, calling for an investigation against KWAM 1, a petition the inspector general referred to the commissioner of police in charge of the airport.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Mr Keyamo asked Ibom Air to withdraw criminal complaints and AON to lift the lifetime flying ban against Ms Emmanson and directed aviation regulators, including NCAA, to reduce the KWAM 1 ban to one month.

Mr Keyamo said both passengers have shown remorse against their actions.

Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1, earlier lodged with the police.

In the case of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba of VALUEJET, the NCAA is to restore their licenses after the same period of one-month ban, after undergoing some mandatory professional re-appraisal. The details will be announced by the NCAA, the minister said.

Airport incident, backlash

The arraignment of Ms Emmanson and the lifetime flying ban imposed on her by airline operators triggered a backlash from many Nigerians and groups, including Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

In the viral video of the altercation at the airport, the airline officials were seen dragging Ms Emmanson out of the aircraft, in the process stripping part of her body.

While condemning Ms Emmansons action, Mr Obi said the airline operators and the aviation minister were exhibiting double standard, with the severity of punishment meted out to the Ibom Air passenger, while KWAM 1, an ally of President Bola Tinubu, whom many believe committed a more severe offence, was given a lesser punishment and with no charges press on him.

Stripping her publicly was not only unnecessary but also represents the height of rascality and abuse by our agencies. It is unacceptable that she was hurriedly taken to court and remanded, while someone who visibly held a plane from taking off and put hundreds of lives at risk is still at large, with government agencies and some state officials speaking up for him to be forgiven.

This case is not just about one young woman; it is about the double standards that poison our justice system. Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.

While Ms Emmanson is in jail, the other offender who committed a more severe offence, has not been held to the same standard. He has neither been arrested nor arraigned in any court, Mr Obi said, referring to Mr Marshal.

On its part, the NBA demanded an immediate lifting of the lifetime ban and an apology from Ibom Air and airline operators to Ms Emmanson.

In a statement on Tuesday, signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, and Secretary, Mobolaji Ojibara, the NBA said the AON and Ibom Air decided without hearing from the passenger, a move they said breaches the fundamental principle of fair hearing and renders the decision legally and morally indefensible.

We also call on the minister for aviation, the NCAA, FAAN, and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough inquiry, sanction all those found culpable, and enforce strict compliance with established standards for the humane treatment of air passengers, the statement said, adding that it was ready to offer free legal service for Ms Emmanson.

Mr Keyamo, the aviation minister, in his statement on Wednesday, said he decided to withdraw charges against Ms Emmanson and KWAM 1 after a review of the incidents involving the two airlines and appeals from well-meaning Nigerians.

The decisions were taken by the government and the airline operators purely on compassionate grounds as the government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved.

We are also sending a clear message that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously, and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies, the minister said.
The Nigerian government has imposed a seven-year ban on the establishment of new federal tertiary educational institutions.

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said the proposal was approved at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday.

Mr Alausa said the decision was to halt decays in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

He explained that the current challenge in Nigerias education sector is no longer about access to federal tertiary education but about addressing the proliferation which has strained resources, leading to the deterioration of infrastructure.

We are doing this to further halt decays in tertiary institutions which may in the future affect the quality of education and consequently cause unemployment of graduates from some of these institutions, he said.

Mr Alausa had directed the Tertiary Education Trustfund (TETFund), an intervention agency for Nigerian tertiary institutions, to only use its 2025 funding for the rehabilitation of existing infrastructures and not the construction of new ones.

In an editorial in March, PREMIUM TIMES also asked Mr Tinubus government to halt the proliferation of universities and address the funding challenges so they can attract world-class faculty and international students.

This newspaper noted that the country cannot continue to have universities that have no well-equipped laboratories, libraries, students hostels, lecture halls, water, electricity, sufficient academic manpower, or research capacities.

The penchant for unrestrained establishment of universities in the country, despite the decrepit state of existing ones, as a result of gross underfunding, is highly counterproductive, this newspaper said.

Nigerian institutions struggle over lack of funding

PREMIUM TIMES had reported how the Nigerian government continued to establish new universities, polytechnics and colleges of education even though the existing ones struggle to access funding from the federal government.

In less than two years in office, Mr Tinubu who initially postponed the take-off of some federal universities approved by his predecessor, the late Muhammadu Buhari over funding concerns went ahead to establish more than 12 tertiary institutions, including eight universities, two polytechnics and two colleges of education.

Meanwhile, there are over 200 bills seeking to establish more universities in the National Assembly, Mr Alausa, the education minister said in March.

The funding-deficit in Nigerian tertiary institutions has resulted in most of the institutions, particularly the universities, hiking school fees, some of them by more than 100 per cent.

The situation has also constantly pitted workers in the institutions against the government, resulting in industrial actions that have characterised Nigerian tertiary institutions for more than two decades.

Just last week, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the largest lecturers union in the country, warned of an imminent strike over the governments failure to conclude the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, which is largely about the academics welfare.

The 2009 agreement, meant to be renegotiated every four years, has stalled since it was first signed.

Renegotiation efforts in 2013, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2024 have stalled with successive governments failing to sign the draft agreement, further infuriating the lecturers.

ASUU said the last committee inaugurated in October 2024 and chaired by the Pro-Chancellor of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Yayale Ahmed, submitted its report eight months ago but the government is yet to sign or begin the implementation.
President Bola Tinubu said on Wednesday that his administration has implemented bold and difficult reforms that have dismantled longstanding distortions in our economy and restored policy credibility.

The Nigerian leader spoke while addressing members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) during the councils meeting at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, according to a statement by his office.

Mr Tinubu said the policies have better positioned (Nigeria) to attract both domestic and foreign private investment

Some of the policies implemented by the Tinubu administration include the removal of petrol subsidies, the floating of the naira and the increase in electricity tariff for many consumers.

The president said his administrations Renewed Hope Agenda remains focused on achieving a $1 trillion economy by the year 2030.

Read the full statement by the president below.

Talking Points by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to address FEC members on optimising public savings to finance growth sustainably on Wednesday, 13 August 2025.

Opening Remarks and Appreciation

1. Distinguished members of the Federal Executive Council, let me begin by expressing my sincere appreciation for your unwavering commitment, resilience, and hard work in supporting this administrations reform agenda.

2. Together, we have implemented bold and difficult reforms that have dismantled longstanding distortions in our economy and restored policy credibility.

3. These reforms have:

Enhanced our economic resilience.

Restored macroeconomic stability.

Created a transparent and competitive business environment, and

Bolstered investor confidence.

4. As a result, our economy is now better positioned to attract both domestic and foreign private investment-investment that is critical to stimulating sustained growth, creating decent jobs, and lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.

Renewed Hope Agenda: A $1 Trillion Economy by 2030

5. Our Renewed Hope Agenda remains focused on achieving a $1 trillion economy by the year 2030.

6. To realise this vision, we must now accelerate our efforts to achieve a minimum growth rate of 7.0 per cent by 2027.

7. This is not just an economic target; it is a moral imperative. Stimulating higher growth is the only sustainable path to solving the poverty challenge in Nigeria.

8. The recent IMF Article IV Report published in July 2025 also affirms this trajectory and underscores the importance of investment-led growth.

1The Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme

9. In line with our commitment to inclusive development, I recently launched the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme-a ward-based initiative covering all 8,809 wards across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

10. This programme is close to my heart. It is designed to empower active grassroots economic players, using a micro-level approach to tackle poverty. We aim to bring sub-national governments and private sector partners on board to ensure efficient and impactful implementation.

Collaboration with States and Local Governments

11. Last week, I addressed the National Economic Council and urged our Governors to accelerate growth by:

Prioritising productivity-enhancing investments,

Strengthening food security, and

Deepening collaboration with local governments.

12. These efforts are essential to fully addressing the poverty challenge and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.

Savings and Investment: Catalysts for Growth

13. Let me emphasise the critical role of savings in catalysing investment and growth. Currently, public investment as a share of GDP stands at a low 5.0 per cent, largely due to insufficient public savings.

14. We must urgently review and optimise our savings. This includes:

Enhancing spending efficiency, and

Reviewing deductions from the Federation Account, such as the cost of collection by revenue agencies such as FIRS, Customs, NUPRIC and NIMASA etc.

15. There is also the need to reassess the 30 per cent management fee and the 30 per cent frontier exploration deduction by NNPC based on the Petroleum Industry Act

16. We must optimise every available Naira to sustain our momentum and finance our growth trajectory-especially in a time of global liquidity constraints.

Directive to the Economic Management Team

17. Accordingly, I am directing the Economic Management Team, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, to:

Conduct a comprehensive review of all deductions and revenue retention practices, and

Present actionable recommendations to this Council for an optimal way forward.

Closing

18. Distinguished members of this accomplished Federal Executive Council, the task ahead is great, but so is our resolve.

19. Let us continue to work together with unity of purpose, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda, to build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Nigeria.

20. Thank you.
The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) says that more than 70 ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) are still awarding contracts from the 2024 budget, in a move it says risks saddling the government with unnecessary liabilities.

The Director General of the BPP, Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this in a presentation to President Bola Tinubu ahead of Wednesdays Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.

The presentation was shared with PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday.

Mr Adedokun said the law extending the 2024 budget was meant to ensure full implementation, but urged that all such contract awards be concluded by September 2025.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that the National Assembly passed a bill extending the implementation of the 2024 budget to 2025.

In his presentation, the BPP chief also called for a presidency-led review of all projects awarded by ministers and their parastatals in the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years.

Several MDAs are still carrying out procurement processes for projects captured under the 2024 Appropriation that should have lapsed since December 2024.

The law was extended to enable full implementation, but it is now over 20 months after, and more than 70 MDAs will still be carrying out procurement. It is recommended that awards should be concluded by the end of September 2025 to avoid unnecessary liabilities.

Lists of projects that have been awarded by each ministry and their parastatals under the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years should be forwarded to the Bureau of Public Procurement for further consideration, in line with SGF Circular on projects, the brief stated.

On the Nigeria First policy, the bureau said MDAs must prioritise Made-in-Nigeria goods and services that meet international standards and are certified by relevant authorities.

The BPP chief said the agency would work with the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit to track compliance and report to the presidency.

To boost transparency, job creation and poverty reduction under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr Adedokun urged that a significant share of 2025 budget projects be procured through open competitive bidding.

He further recommended that his office be included in negotiations for bilateral infrastructure loans to ensure procurement decisions are not taken without professional inputs from the Regulator.

The DG warned that several government-owned companies were ignoring the Public Procurement Act despite a legal requirement under the Finance Act 2020.

He said this non-compliance has been responsible for financial recklessness observed in those companies and urged the president to compel them to follow the law.
The Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has made further steps to consolidate his control of the political structure in Rivers State, with the flag off of campaigns for local elections in the state.

The election is scheduled for 30 August.

At the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign launch held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, the ministers loyalists, including the chairperson of the party in the state, Aeron Chukwuemeke, and the suspended Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, lavished praises on Mr Wike, a former governor of the state.

Let me use this opportunity to thank our leader, Mr Wike, who has made this flag off today a success, Mr Chukwuemeka said, while declaring open the event.

Very importantly, we say thank you to our political leader, our father, Mr Wike, for the leadership he has provided for the PDP and the state, Mr Amaewhule, flanked by the 26 other lawmakers, loyal to the minister, said.

The suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his loyalists were not featured at the event, except for a backdrop that carried Mr Fubaras picture.

Mr Wike controls the PDP structure and that of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the oil-rich state. The APC chairperson in Rivers, Tony Okocha, is his ally.

Wike, Fubaras political, legal battle

Mr Wike helped Mr Fubara to become the governor of the state in 2023, but both politicians fell out less than five months after.

The political feud split the legislature into two factions  27 lawmakers loyal to Mr Wike, leaving four in Mr Fubaras camp.

The political crisis had defied presidential interventions, while both factions battled in the court over the legality of the pro-Wike lawmakers after they defected to the APC.

Amid the crisis, Mr Fubara defied all odds and conducted local elections, taking over the control of the political structure at the grassroots after his allies were elected as councillors and chairpersons of the 23 local councils in the state.

However, the Supreme Court invalidated the elections, restored the pro-Wike lawmakers as legitimate lawmakers, invalidated the appropriation bill passed by Mr Fubara-backed lawmakers, and stopped the federal government from releasing allocation to the state pending when Mr Fubara would present a budget to the legitimate assembly.

Upon resuming legislative business after their restoration, the lawmakers served impeachment notice on Mr Fubara and declined the governors request to present the 2025 budget.

In the wake of the crisis, an explosion blew up an oil pipeline in the state.

Citing the pipeline explosion and the prolonged Fubara-Wike feud, President Bola Tinubu in March declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending Mr Fubara and the state legislature for an initial period of six months.

The president appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice admiral and former chief of naval staff, as the sole administrator in the state, a move that triggered widespread criticisms from the public, including the Nigerian Bar Association.

Upon assuming office, Mr Ibas dissolved boards, commissions, and parastatals constituted by Mr Fubara and reconstituted a new one. The newly reconstituted Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, which was inaugurated last month, fixed 30 August, less than two months interval for the local election.

Some persons in the state, displeased by the election schedule, have filed a suit, asking the court to determine if local elections can be conducted under emergency rule.

Despite protests from several quarters against the election, the electoral commission has proceeded with the elections, with parties conducting primaries where councillors and chairmanship candidates were elected.

With the conduct of the election under the emergency rule, and with Mr Wikes allies, who this newspaper gathered, emerged as candidates of both the PDP and APC for the election, it is glaring that Mr Wike has regained control of the political structure in the state.

PREMIUM TIMES understands that Messrs Fubara and Wike have settled their political feud, but it is not clear if the suspended governors interest would be protected in the new political development in the state.
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) on Tuesday lamented how lack of funds is impairing its treatment of inmates.

The NCoS said specifically that paucity of funds has undercut its services to female inmates, death row inmates and inmates with mental and physical disabilities.

This came up on Tuesday during the second day of the third phase of its public hearing of the independent investigative panel on the alleged corruption and abuse of power, torture, cruel, inhumane in the NCoS.

During the hearing, the panel called on the representatives of the custodial centres to discuss how women in custody, inmates on death row and those with physical and mental disabilities were treated.

PREMIUM TIMES reported Mondays hearing, which focused on child detention.

On Tuesday, lack of funding is a recurring theme of presentations.

Treatment of women in custody

The NCoS said that there were 1,885 female inmates, of whom 1,235 are awaiting trials and 650 are convicts, including inmates on death row (IDR). A representative of the NCoS, A. A Shehu, noted that there were few custodial centres designated for women alone.

Another representative, I.N. Idris, said budget limitation makes it difficult to actualise more separate custodial centres for women, despite the mandate of Section 34 of the Nigeria Correctional Service Act 2019.

A report in 2024 noted that out of 241 correctional centres, only two are solely designated for women.

However, on Tuesday, the NCoS reported three operational custodial centres for women in Ondo, Lagos, and Adamawa. They also stated that a correctional centre in Keffi has been gazetted for female inmates.

The NCoS presented a documentary on the state of the womens custodial centre at Kirikiri in Lagos.

Mr Idris informed the panel that the NCoS had established a gender desk. He also stated that the treatment of women takes precedence.

He commended Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and health workers who have collaborated with the NCoS by contributing to the welfare of female inmates.

A member of the panel, Iyke Ezeugo, highlighted the challenges that female inmates face in mixed-gender custodial centres, which include a lack of recreational, educational, vocational and worship centres.

The panel charged the NCoS to submit a written report on correctional centres headed by female officers and the state of those centres.

No facilities for a pregnancy test

Mr Ezeugo said the panel, during a visit to a custodial centre, met an inmate who was unaware of her pregnancy until six weeks after admission into the centre. He noted that this was a violation of Section 34(4) of the NCoS Act, 2019.

Section 34(4) of the NCoS Act, 2019 stipulates that All female inmates shall undergo pregnancy tests on the first day of admission or as soon as possible but not exceeding 14 days from the date of admission.

M. Veronica, an NCoS officer in charge of nursing and hospital services, said lack of funding was hampering the operation of the facilities.

High cost of maintaining inmates on death row

The NCoS noted that there were 3,845 IDRs, of whom 81 were females. Correctional officer, L.C. Cyrus, spoke on the challenges of congestion.

The cost of maintaining IDRs is highwe certainly should have some kind of increase in budgetary allocation for the management of these inmates, he said.

He warned that the IDRs demand for double rations, if not met, could lead to a riot.

The panel commended the NCoS for its handling of IDRs but recommended the provision of mental healthcare for IDRs in line with Section 23 of the NCoS Act, 2019.

Inmates with mental and physical disabilities

The NCoS also complained of inadequate facilities for inmates with mental and physical disabilities, particularly structural facilities like reasonable accommodations, psychiatric services, and medications.

An officer in charge of pharmaceutical services, NCoS, Muhammad Bashir, said, The federal government has been doing its best to see that it caters for the health needs of the inmates. Money is being appropriated. But is the money enough? No.

What is appropriated to NCoS is 75 million for all of these 81,000 inmates The service is doing its best. The ministry is doing its best. But funding is always the issue.

While acknowledging the challenge of the funding, the chairperson of the panel, Magdalene Ajani, encouraged NCoS officers to collaborate with companies and stakeholders to assist.

I keep saying that it will be very difficult for any government institution to be able to fund its needs 100 per cent. So, collaboration is necessary. If we can approach companies that can give us drugs as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), then do it, she said.

This is not the first time the correctional service has lamented the lack of funds. In March, the NCoS stated it blamed its inability to establish more correctional centres to address overcrowding of inmates on lack of funding.

However, the panel on Tuesday highlighted the failure of the service in the usage of a 3,000-capacity centre in Kano due to structural problems. Mrs Ajani asked the NCoS to submit a proper evaluation of the building in one month.
Lagos State has recorded a 20 per cent reduction in fire-related emergencies in 2024, according to the latest Fire Report of the states fire and rescue service.

The report also said 450 victims rescued and properties worth N117.12 billion slavaged.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu attributed the decline to sustained infrastructure support for emergency response teams and intensified fire safety advocacy aimed at reducing fire hazards.

The figures were released at the second edition of the Lagos International Fire Safety Conference (LIFSC), organised by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations and held at the Federal Palace Hotels, Victoria Island on Tuesday.

The two-day event had the theme: Leveraging Technology and Community Engagement to Prevent Fire.

Presenting the 2024 Fire Report, the Director of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margret Adeseye, said the agency received 1,952 emergency calls, including 1,607 fire incidents with minimal casualties.

She said in 2023, the agency responded to over 2,500 fire and rescue cases.

Modern fighting equipment

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the decline was the result of providing modern fire-fighting equipment, deploying technology, and improving mobility.

He noted that in the last six years, his administration had built 25 new fire stations, with four more to be delivered soon, and supplied over 60 fire trucks and additional firefighting kits in the past two years.

The governor also disclosed the acquisition of drones to detect fire sources in high-rise buildings and the refurbishment of the Command and Control Centre to improve emergency response time from 15 minutes to between five and seven minutes.

The Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, said the conference was designed to raise fire safety awareness and strengthen stakeholder cooperation.

He stressed that fire prevention is a shared responsibility among government, communities, and the private sector.

Mr Adeseye added that the Fire Service inspected 7,870 facilities for fire risk in 2024 and issued 7,039 fire certificates. Despite the progress, 91 casualties were recorded, and properties worth N19.5 billion were lost.

The report comes against the backdrop of recent fire incidents in Lagos. In the first half of 2025 alone, at least 62 people lost their lives in fire outbreaks and building collapses across the state.

The figures are contained in the mid-year activity report of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS), which reviewed incidents between January and June 2025.

In a statement, the agencys Senior Public Affairs Officer, Maria Fadairo, said the report provides a snapshot of emergency response efforts during the period, highlighting key statistics and operational achievements.

In November 2024, a fire at Ajah Market in Lekki destroyed several shops containing combustible materials.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said there were no casualties and that the fire was contained before spreading to nearby buildings.

In August 2024, a fire outbreak on Sanni Adewale Street, Lagos Island, damaged several shops in a seven-storey building, while another incident involving a gas truck at a Mobil filling station in Ikeja destroyed eight vehicles.

Also, in September 2024, the Oko-Baba plank market in Ebute-Metta was gutted by fire, and a recent blaze disrupted blue rail train services.
Figmas billionaire CEO Dylan Field hit up his former coworkers from LinkedIn, Flipboard, and OReilly Media as the then 19-year-old was looking to get his design tool off the ground. The millennial cofounder also cold-emailed his tech heroes to invite them out for coffee. Now, Figma is a $68 billion success. And multimillionaires and executives at Google and Squarespace have found success the same way.

Job-seekers are all turning to out-of-the-box ways to advance their careers: from delivering donuts to Silicon Valley bosses, to waitressing at tech conferences to hand out CVs. However, Figma CEO Dylan Field used some age-old tricks to get people on board with his now $68 billion breakout success.

The 33-year-old CEO was just 19 when he founded the online design tool in 2012, and the aspiring tech entrepreneur pulled on any loose thread he could find to persuade others to use it.

Really, the first users of Figma, a lot of it was cold-emailing and people in-network, Field recently revealed at Y Combinators AI startup school. So folks that I had interned withand from that, there were people I could reach out to that could tell me others to talk with.

Field had dropped out of the Ivy League school Brown University and took up Peter Thiels prestigious fellowship, granting Field $100,000 to launch his startup. But if it werent for his nine-month research assistant job at Microsoft, four-month data analytics internship at LinkedIn, and two internships at aggregation software company Flipboard, he may not have amassed a base to get his business running.

Field didnt stop at hitting up his ex-coworkers and gaining steam behind a screenhe also scraped the internet for the best tech talent. If they agreed to hear out his Figma dream, he took them out for coffee and sang his praises of their influence. Surprisingly, in a world of rampant ghosting, a lot of people took the bait.

I just looked online, like, Who are the designers that I think could be really helpful to us and I respect their work? If they answer my email and they let me buy them a coffee, itll just be like a personal moment for me, because theyre my hero, Field recalled. And a lot of them replied. Its kind of wild that people reply to cold emails, but they do.

Fortune reached out to Figma for comment.

Millionaires and executives at Google and Squarespace who put themselves out there

Figmas CEO isnt the only one admitting to reaching out to the upper echelons of business for help out of the blueand actually finding success from it.
Residents of the Ologo, Coal Camp, and Uwani areas of the Enugu metropolis in Enugu State have decried the over-one-week-long power outage.

They are appealing to the relevant authorities to come to their aid.

A cross-section of the residents who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Tuesday called for Governor Peter Mbahs intervention to restore the areas power supply.

They said that lack of power was affecting their businesses, households and means of livelihood.

How the problem began

NAN recalled that the MainPower Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MPECL) issued a statement on 4 August blaming the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) for the development.

According to the company, the reduction followed the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC)s decision to slash electricity tariffs for Band A from N209 to N160 per kWh.

NAN reports that since the directive came into effect on 1 August, electricity consumers on Bands B to E have been thrown into darkness in parts of the city, crippling many economic activities.

A welder at the Mechanic Shop in Coal Camp, Obum Chijioke, said he spends a lot of money on fuel to do his job and usually returns home without profit.

He said it has not been easy for him and others in the past week as they have spent their little earnings on fuel.

Mr Chijioke appealed to the relevant authorities to look into the problem urgently and restore power to the area.

A cleric in a church on Zik Avenue, who did not want his name mentioned in the report, said that the church has been using diesel for its activities, including services, and that this is taking a toll on them.

We spend between N25,000 and N30,000 on diesel daily for our activities, and it is not easy at all, he said.

A retail shop operator, Chika Alejim, decried the situation, saying that it has affected her business.

She said she was unable to chill her drinks and sachet water, which were the mainstay of her business.

According to her, the business was no longer booming, unlike before, which had affected her profits and caused her to incur more expenses.

I buy fuel of N20,000 daily; I spend N10,000 on fuel in the morning and another N10,000 at night, and all these expenses eat deep into my profits.

Also, the ice fish and meat, which I sell to support the provision store, got spoiled because of a power outage, she said.

Charles Ako, a business centre operator, told NAN he could no longer afford the enormous cost of keeping the centre functional.

I have stopped those undergoing computer training due to the absence of a power supply. When a customer comes, I use the little fuel I have to do photocopying and printing.

I dont know when the power issue will be sorted out; I am appealing to those concerned to help Enugu people because we are suffering, he said.

A housewife, Ukamaka Ugwu, described the effect of lack of power supply as serious, saying that it has pushed up the familys daily expenses.

She said she stopped cooking in large quantities because there was no electricity to power the freezer, which would have helped to preserve the food.

I now cook every two days, thereby incurring extra expenses. Not only this, we find it difficult to charge our phones, torches, and even to see at night.

Government should help us because it is getting out of hand, she said.

Regulator speaks

Meanwhile, EERC, in a statement on 10 August, said steps were being taken to resolve the power shortage.

The commission revealed that it had met with both the EEDC and Main Power in a bid to restore power supply.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has refuted claims that a young lady in the state has locally created an AI phone.

In a statement on Monday, the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Frank Ekpenyong, said such a product does not exist in Akwa Ibom.

We appreciate the concerned members of the public who reached out to verify the authenticity of the claims. Following careful review, we wish to state categorically that the video is misleading, and the product it depicts does not exist, the statement said.

According to a video clip posted on Facebook, the teenage girl, Uyaiabasi, is seen telling her interviewee at an event that she invented an AI phone that has a lot of features that a regular phone does not have.

Its voice control. It doesnt have a screen, but it has a holographic display, she said in the video. She said the phone costs N3,500.

Ms Uyaiabasi demonstrated to her interviewer how the device can be used to make calls and detect locations.

Where are we? she is heard asking the device.

We are at Four Points by Sheraton, the device responded, referring to the state government-owned hotel in Ikot Ekpene.

The Akwa Ibom State Government said the resurfaced video went viral in 2023 during a tech week held at Ikot Ekpene, and that the young girl in the video was merely presenting an idea for an AI-powered phone.

The young lady featured, filmed in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, was merely presenting an idea for an AI-powered phone. Special effects  such as holographic projections, robotic voice responses, and futuristic visuals were digitally added to illustrate the concept.

The video producers did not include a disclaimer clarifying that the device was fictional, resulting in public misunderstanding.

With the video resurfacing and generating fresh narratives, the government has revisited the matter. The outcome remains the same: there is no such product; the visuals were purely illustrative, Mr Ekpenyong said.

The commissioner stated that Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State is committed to supporting both indigenous and non-indigenous youths who showcase exceptional talents.

The Government remains committed to supporting innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among our youths, as encapsulated in the Arise Agenda, Mr Ekpenyong said.

The Arise Agenda is Mr Enos economic blueprint for the state.
The Cross River State Government says it has acquired two new CRJ 1000 jets to increase the Cally Air fleet to four.

Cally Air is owned by the Cross River State Government. Aero Contractors operates the first two aircraft on behalf of Cally Air. An official of the Cross River State Government told PREMIUM TIMES, Wednesday that the state government is going into an agreement with ValueJet for it to operate the two new aircraft.

Vice President Kassim Shettima inaugurated the latest aircraft on Tuesday at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar.

Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River said that the state government plans to increase Cally Airs fleet to seven.

We already have two aircraft that are flying, we are adding another two today, and very soon, we shall add another three to make it seven, he said.

Mr Otu said that his administration was strongly building on three areas of development, which his predecessors had initiated.

He stated his predecessors initiated projects in tourism, rural development and industrialisation.

I came into government to meet three engines that were started by my predecessors. The first engine is tourism, which was begun by Donald Duke.

I also saw rural development, which was anchored by Liyel Imoke, and I saw industrialisation, which was started by Prof. Ben Ayade.

The plans of these leaders were to move the state away from dependency on the centre.

When I came into office, I saw the reason to integrate these three engines to create a robust economy that can take the state to another level

Today, we are building on the aviation sector, which is very key to our tourism development target, he said.

The governor stated that the Cross River Government was keying into President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda as a way of promoting economic growth and citizens wellbeing.

In the neighbouring Akwa Ibom State, Ibom Air, owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, has been a great success in Nigerias aviation industry since it was established in 2019, but the airline has been enmeshed in a controversy recently over its poor handling of a clash between its crew members and a passenger inside an aircraft.

Nigeria has failed to establish a national carrier since Nigeria Airways ceased operations in 2003.

(NAN)
As questions persist among Nigerian travellers over why authorities insist mobile phones must be switched off during take-off, or switched to flight mode during flight, Boaz Agbonifoh, a pilot and aviation expert, has shed light on the safety and operational reasons behind the policy.

The discussion was reignited following the recent detention of Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger who refused to switch off her phone on a UyoLagos flight.

Speaking on Channels Television, Mr Agbonifoh explained why the instruction exists and why non-compliance can pose a safety concern, even in an age of advanced technology.

If its one phone, its not a problem, he said.

It becomes a problem when your phone is not in flight mode and all the phones are trying to get network. This can definitely interfere with the aircraft systems, such as the radar altimeter, radio altimeter, and different systems that could be affected.

He explained that, beyond the technical reasons, compliance is also about respecting airline policy.

At the end of the day, the airline offers a service to people. If you decide to fly on that airline, it means you have accepted to take their service, which also means you have to follow their rules and regulations. If you dont want to do it, thats fine, you can easily go ahead and get on another airline that will allow you to have your phone on, he said.

While some passengers argue that a phone is too small to disrupt an aircraft, the captain insists the caution is not unfounded.

The technology is not at a point where everything can go hand-in-hand. Theres a saying in aviation that the rules and regulations are built in blood. We dont want a situation where phones interfere with your radar or GPS. Youre supposed to be going from Lagos to Owerri and Im exaggerating here  you may end up going Lagos to Benin, he said.

Although there is no proven evidence that a passengers phone has caused a plane crash, Mr Agbonifoh stressed that safety protocols are meant to prevent even the slightest risk.

I dont think a phone has actively caused a crash. However, theres nothing like being too careful, he added.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported how Ms Emmanson was arrested and remanded in Kirikiri Correctional Centre after an unruly confrontation onboard, an incident that drew widespread reactions on social media, dividing public opinion over whether the crews actions were justified before the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamos intervention, earlier today.

Mr Keyamo waded into the matter, calling for a review of the incident and urging all parties to prioritise passenger rights while maintaining strict adherence to safety regulations.
President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Thursday, 14 August, for a two-nation trip to Japan and Brazil.

The president will stop over in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, before proceeding to Japan.

In Japan, President Tinubu will attend the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in the City of Yokohama from August 20 to 22.

With the theme Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa, TICAD9 will focus on Africas economic transformation and improvements in the business environment and institutions through private investment and innovation. It will also promote a resilient and sustainable African society for human security, peace, and stability.

In addition to attending plenary sessions on themes linked to the conference, the Nigerian president will hold bilateral meetings and meet the chief executive officers of some Japanese companies with investments in Nigeria.

Initiated in 1993 by the Japanese government and co-hosted by the United Nations, UNDP, the African Union Commission, and the World Bank, TICAD is a triennial conference held alternately in Japan and Africa. The last one took place in August 2022 in Tunisia.

The forum fosters high-level policy dialogue between African leaders and development partners.

At the end of the TICAD9, President Tinubu will leave for Brasilia, the capital of the Federative Republic of Brazil, on a two-day state visit from Sunday, 24 August to Monday, 25 August 25.

This follows an invitation by the Brazilian President, Luiz da Silva.

While in Brazil, President Tinubu will hold a bilateral meeting with his host and attend a business forum with Brazilian investors.

His delegationcomprising key ministers and senior officialswill explore opportunities to strengthen cooperation and sign agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Brazilian government.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) and members of the panel investigating abuses within the service on Wednesday lamented the shortage of skilled manpower and proper facilities for rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.

They raised the issues during the panels sitting, which began its third phase on Monday.

Wednesdays discussions centered on the NCoS poor facilities, inadequate manpower, the training programme and earning scheme for inmates.

I.N Idris, a NCoS delegate, spoke on the lack of skilled officers for vocational training of inmates.

So the important thing is that in this recruitment, please help us to put the word across, so that the CG will be able to bring these people in, so that the workshops do not become moribund, he said.

He said explained that there is the Inmates Training and Productivity (ITP) established in line with Section 14 of the NCoS, 2019, for effective rehabilitation of inmates. He said the effectiveness of the training was being hampered by poor and inadequate facilities and manpower shortage.

Mr Idris also said the NCoS has in place an earning scheme to empower inmates.

For reintegration into society, he also said well-behaved inmates are issued starter packs and certificates of good behaviour upon discharge. This is ensured to prevent discrimination.

He also identified an after-care unit to monitor ex-offenders.

Panel raises concerns

A member of the panel, Iyke Ezeugo, also noted the inadequacy of skilled manpower and facilities as well as congestion and shutdown of workshops in some centres.

Mr Ezeugo lamented that vocational training takes place under the tree in some centres.

In July, the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions called for an urgent infrastructural overhaul of Nigerias correctional centres, citing years of neglect, chronic overcrowding, and inadequate inmate welfare.

The secretary of the panel, Uju Agomoh, said that it was important to bring these challenges to light, So that people truly can see the need to provide support. So the government truly can see the need to fund this issue.

Ms Agomoh noted the shortage of welfare officers in Borno custodial centre, the absence of school activity in Owerri custodial centre, and the workshop in Abakali female custodial centre.

The Nigerian prison system was renamed in 2019 as a mark of shifting its focus from a punitive approach to a rehabilitative approach

However, In July, Nasarawa State Chief Judge, Aisha Bashir-Aliyu, noted that the name change has not brought the intended reforms.

Ms Bashir-Aliyu said the issues of overcrowding, inadequate facilities, and a lack of comprehensive rehabilitation programmes have defied the efforts at reforming the Nigerian prisons.

NCoS issues directives

On Wednesday, the panel asked the NCoS to submit the records of inmates who have benefited from the earning scheme, starter packs, and the status of the aftercare unit.

Mr Ezeugo urged NCoS officers to prioritise character reformation.

Ms Agomoh stated that the NCoS should ensure that it abides by the mandate of Section 10 of the NCoS Act, 2019, which deals with ensuring detainees are treated humanely and equipped with tools for successful reintegration into society.

The panel also directed the NCoS to provide the total number of correctional centres in each state and the status of each of their workshops and other activities.

A. Ismail of the Inmates Educational Foundation recommended a standardised and structured academic programme in the centres.

He also called for the representation of youths in committees that make decisions relating to custodial centres.

NCoS representative, Mr Idris, pleaded with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to partner with the NCoS in the aspect of industrial training for the inmates.

Following Tuesdays discussion on the treatment of female inmates, Benjamin Olowojebutu, First Vice President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), pledged 4,000 sanitary pads for female inmates monthly.

I spoke to a few of my friends who produce sanitary pads, and so we will be supporting the correctional centres with 4,000 pads at the end of the month. And I will do that every month, as the case may be, he said.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State says he has no apologies for supporting President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

Mr Soludo spoke while fielding questions from reporters shortly after meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday.

The governor is a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) while Mr Tinubu is of the All Progressives Congress.

Progressives should form coalition

When asked the reason for his support to Mr Tinubu, Mr Soludo said he believes that political parties, which profess progressivism,

should form a coalition to deepen development in Nigeria.

For me, saying progressives working together is a call to those who share these ideals. Regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I have no apologies for my support.

He (Tinubu) has been my friend for 22 years and counting  you dont deny your friend, he said.

I fully support him and I am impressed by the bold economic and structural reforms he has implemented. We are on the right path, and we need to stay the course.

Battle against insecurity in Anambra

Mr Soludo also said his administration has employed a holistic approach to tackle insecurity in Anambra State.

In January this year, we passed our Homeland Security Law, which is trying to deal with insecurity from the foundations.

All the deadly native doctors are on the run from the state, because these are the guys giving false hope and so on and deceiving our young ones and luring them into criminality and all of that, he stated.

The governor said he has adopted a dual approach to the fight against insecurity in the state.

The kinetic operations have succeeded, but we are focusing heavily on non-kinetic strategies, which include youth empowerment and job creation.

Our unique one-year skills training programme has already empowered about 5,000 youths, and another 8,700 will receive substantial funding within the next month or two. We are creating thousands of youth millionaires within the first three years. This empowerment is spreading throughout the state, with youths actively engaged, he stated.

Mr Soludo boasted that his administration was dealing with hardship in Anambra State beyond investment in infrastructure, fixing of schools and health.

Were also very intentional about economic and social empowerment of the youth. So were doing quite a lot: The kinetic intelligence gathering and those who run foul of the law definitely will be decisively dealt with, he said.

Soludos Support

This is not the first time Mr Soludo would express support for Mr Tinubu ahead of a general election in Nigeria.

Ahead of the 2023 general election, Mr Soludo predicted that Mr Tinubu would win the presidential election of that year.

The Anambra governor also said that Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, would not win the election, citing his lack of political structure.

Again, in May this year, Mr Soludo announced that his party, APGA, has adopted Mr Tinubu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

However, Mr Soludo needs to ensure his re-election before the 2027 election. He will face other challengers, including Mr Tinubus APC, in November, to retain his seat. He is, howevet, believed to enjoy the tacit support of the president.
The Dangote Refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot price of petrol from N850 per litre to N820 per litre.

The companys Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, in a statement on Tuesday night, said the price adjustment takes effect from 12 August.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot (gantry) price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol, by N30.00, from N850 to N820 per litre, effective from 12th August 2025.

As part of our unwavering commitment to national development, Dangote Petroleum Refinery assures the public of a consistent and uninterrupted supply of petroleum products.

In line with our dedication to operational excellence and sustainable energy solutions, Dangote Petroleum Refinery will commence the phased deployment of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for fuel distribution across Nigeria, effective 15 August 2025, Mr Chiejina said.

The reduction is part of the markets response to recent fluctuations in global crude oil prices.

On Tuesday, crude oil prices dipped as traders anticipated declining demand at the end of the summer driving season in early September.

Brent crude futures lost 46 cents, or 0.69 per cent, to $66.17 a barrel by 1:09 p.m. CDT (1809 GMT). U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures were down 77 cents, or 1.2 per cent, to $63.19.

In May, Dangote refinery reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining price stability for petrol, despite global crude oil price fluctuations.

READ ALSO: Dangote Refinery debunks shutdown rumour

At the time, Mr Chiejina said the decision reflects the companys unwavering commitment to supporting the Nigerian economy and alleviating the burden on consumers from the increase in fuel prices by maintaining price stability.

On 15 June, the Dangote refinery announced a major initiative to transform Nigerias fuel distribution landscape. The company said that, effective 15 August, it will begin distributing petrol and diesel to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecoms firms, aviation, and other large users across the country.

With Dangote refinerys price drop, oil marketers are expected to follow suit by lowering their pump prices, potentially leading to reduced retail fuel costs for consumers.
The police in Anambra State say they have arrested the head of a notorious child trafficking syndicate in the state.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in Anambra, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said the suspect, Ngozi Muotuanya, a 63-year-old woman, was arrested on Monday by operatives attached to Oba Divisional Police Headquarters.

He said the suspect is an indigene of Anambra State and that her arrest was in response to a tip-off about her alleged criminal activities in the state.

The spokesperson said the operation followed frequent mysterious disappearance of children in Anambra State, especially in Oba and surrounding communities.

Preliminary investigations revealed that sometime in 2024, the suspect allegedly stole a male child, aged about one year, in Minna, Niger State, and sold him to an unsuspecting member of the public in Anambra State.

The said suspect later resold the child to another person. However, on 4th August 2025, the receiver, upon realising that the child had been stolen, returned him to the principal suspect.

The suspect, in turn, allegedly abandoned the child at an unascertained church in Minna, where he was rescued by the leader of the Igbo Community in Minna, Mr Ikenga narrated.

Meanwhile, the Command has relayed information about the custodian of the Child in Minna to the Niger State Police Command for possible recovery and reunification with his parents and other necessary action.

The police spokesperson said the suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for investigation and prosecution.

Prohibited in Nigeria

Nigeria in 2015 enacted the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act which outlawed all acts of human trafficking in the country.

The Act prescribes imprisonment of not less than five years or a fine of not less than N1 million or both as general punishment for human trafficking.

However, the Act also prescribes imprisonment of not less than seven years or a fine of not less than N1 million or both as punishment for child trafficking.

Several persons have been convicted of child trafficking across the country.

The Kano State High Court, in July 2021, sentenced a man, Paul Owne, to 91 years in prison for kidnapping and trafficking of children in the state, for sale in Anambra State.

A Federal High Court in Port-Harcourt, River State, in 2019, sentenced three persons to a combined 12 years imprisonment for trafficking a two-year-old male child and one other child.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kwara State Chapter, has expressed concern over the growing mental health challenges and well-being of doctors in the country.

The Chairman of the association, AbdulRahman Afolabi, while speaking during a news conference organised on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday in Ilorin, noted that doctors often face overwhelming stressors such as long working hours, high patient loads, poor remuneration, workplace insecurity and violence.

Mr Afolabi maintained that these challenges have led to increased cases of burnout, anxiety and depression among medical practitioners.

While we celebrate innovation and leadership, we must also confront a growing crisis of the mental health and well-being of doctors in Nigeria, he said.

Doctors are at the front lines of care, yet often face overwhelming stressors such as long working hours, high patient loads, poor remuneration, inadequate infrastructure, workplace insecurity and violence.

The theme of the AGM is Medicine and Entrepreneurship and the sub-theme: Mental Health and Well-being of Doctors in Nigeria: Importance of Mental Health.

According to Mr Afolabi, a survey carried out by the NMA indicates that many Nigerian doctors experience significant mental health issues, yet very few have access to mental health support.

He said the stigma surrounding mental health continues to prevent many from seeking help.

There is need for national attention to the mental health crisis affecting doctors in Nigeria, he said.

Mr Afolabi advocated for systemic reforms, including access to confidential counselling, wellness programmes, and safer working conditions.

He urged the government and healthcare institutions to prioritise doctors mental well-being as part of the broader health sector reforms.

The NMA chairman reminded stakeholders that a healthy doctor is essential to a healthy population.

The mental health of doctors is not just a professional concern; its a critical public health issue. Protecting and supporting our healthcare workers is key to sustaining Nigerias healthcare system, he said.

We reaffirm our commitment to promoting the welfare, professional growth, and mental well-being of all doctors in Kwara and beyond.

Mr Afolabi called on policymakers, healthcare institutions, professional bodies, and the public to invest in the mental health of doctors and empower them to lead innovative healthcare solutions for the benefit of all Nigerians.

According to him, the 2025 AGM is an occasion to review the associations achievements and celebrate the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals.

He noted that the event aims to discuss pressing matters affecting both the medical profession and the broader healthcare landscape.

He revealed that the association had earlier conducted a free medical outreach for over 1,000 residents at the Sobi Military Cantonment.

The communities benefitted in Ophthalmology, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), consultation and medications and mental evaluation.

(NAN)
New York Attorney General Letitia James Drew Angerer/Getty Images News/Getty Images

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Authorities arrested a Florida man for allegedly swindling over $600,000 from 11 investors, according to New York Attorney General Letitia James.

James claimed Marc Henry Menards three-year securities fraud scheme targeted investors from Haitian communities in New York, Florida and Georgia. Menard was arrested in Sunrise, Fla. this week and indicted on 24 counts, including grand larceny and securities fraud.

Menard treated himself to luxury vacations and shopping trips at his victims expense, and now we are bringing him to justice, James said.

According to James, starting in July 2020, Menard began soliciting Haitians in Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland and Queens counties in New York, as well as in Florida and Georgia. Menard touted monthly returns between 12% and 20%, and although he wasnt registered to sell securities, he told investors he was an experienced trader in stocks and crypto.

After soliciting investors, Menard allegedly placed some of their funds into his own personal trading accounts, which hed use for risky trading options, including day trading and options trading, which lost him over $670,000 between July 2021 and October 2022.

According to James, Menard also spent hundreds of thousands of victims funds to repay previous investors, over $100,000 on trips to Turkey, Puerto Rico and Disney World, a 2021 Mercedes-Benz, a 2022 BMW, and purchases at Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

To satisfy investors questions, Menard allegedly concocted an ATM receipt showing an $8 million account balance and a fake trading screen showing net account values over $1 million.

But the Attorney Generals office found that between July 2021 and October 2022, Mernards highest net value in the trading account was $240,000, while the bank account balance only reached $301,000.

Neither Menard nor counsel representing him could be reached for comment prior to publication.

Menard was released with weekly reporting requirements, was ordered to surrender his passport and is not allowed to travel outside of New York and Florida pending trial. If hes convicted of the top charges, Menard could face as much as 15 years in prison.

Last June, the Securities and Exchange Commission also charged Menard, alleging hed defrauded at least 50 individuals (mainly in the Haitian community) of at least $1.65 million.
The Committee to Protect Journalists calls for Ghanaian authorities to swiftly and comprehensively conclude investigations into the July 30 attack on journalist Carlos Lorlornyo Atsu Calony and threats made against camera operator Jonas Zodzi Voergborlo.

On 30 July, at least seven military officers, some of whom were wearing Ghanas National Intelligence Bureau vests, attacked Calony, a news anchor and program producer with the privately owned Joy News outlet, and Voergborlo, a camera operator with the same company, as they covered the demolition of a building in the capital, Accra, Calony told CPJ.

Authorities in Ghana should ensure transparent investigations into the attack on journalists Carlos Lorlornyo Atsu Calony and Jonas Zodzi Voergborlo, and hold the military officers responsible to account, said CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo. Despite their mandate as protectors, Ghanaian security forces are unfortunately known for abusing journalists on the job.

At least one of the officers punched Calony twice, causing the journalist to develop severe pains in his spine and intermittent blurred vision in his left eye, he told CPJ. He added that an officer threatened to similarly hit Voergborlo if he filmed the attack and that the officers smashed one of Calonys phones and the journalists camera. Calony said his microphone and earphones were also damaged during the attack.

The officers then took Calony to the National Intelligence Bureau headquarters in Accra, where they held him for about 45 minutes, he told CPJ.

READ ALSO: FG renews commitment to revitalising Niger port

Local media rights groups, including the Media Foundation for West Africa and the Ghana Journalists Association, condemned the attack, and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama directed the state security services to investigate the incident.

CPJs calls to Ghanas National Police spokesperson, Juliana Obeng, did not ring. CPJ called numbers on a police website after being directed there by Grace Adu-Gyamfi, the police officer in charge of the investigation, but those calls were directed to another number, which went unanswered.

In recent years, Ghanas police or military have repeatedly attacked journalists.
The chairperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, on Tuesday revealed how an unnamed public officer anticipatorily declared a yet-to-be acquired asset worth N3 billion.

He said the anticipatory declaration was a fraudulent tactic to legitimise planned acts of corruption and diversion of public funds.

Mr Olukoyede said this on Tuesday, in Abuja while delivering a goodwill message at the launch of a Virtual Tool on the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.

The event was organised by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in collaboration with the Technical Unit on Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR).

Explaining the fraudulent tactic, Mr Olukoyede recounted an EFCC investigation in which a politically exposed person declared ownership of a property worth over N3 billion on their CCB asset declaration form  even though the property did not yet exist at the time of the declaration.

We obtained the CCB form and noticed the declared address was different from the actual property location. Further investigation revealed the declaration was made before the property was built, he said.

He urged the CCB to adopt innovative investigative strategies to detect and prevent such schemes.

CCBs new virtual tool

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the new tool as a significant milestone in digitising oversight of public conduct, promoting preventive compliance, and strengthening ethics in public service.

Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to improve transparency and accountability.

Without conduct and ethics, no reform will last. This tool is accessible, cost-effective, and promotes compliance tracking, she said.

CCB Chairman, Abdullahi Bello, said the platform would enhance accountability and guide public officers on ethical and regulatory standards.

Background

In February, Mr Olukoyede vowed that under his leadership, no corrupt public officer would go unpunished.

He reiterated this stance at a recent three-day workshop on anti-corruption, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and good governance for state and local government officials, organised by the House Committee on Financial Crimes in collaboration with the EFCC.

Speaking through the EFCC Academy Commandant, Chinwe Ndubeze, Mr Olukoyede said, Seventy per cent of Nigerias public sector problems stem from poor fiscal transparency. Trillions are budgeted annually for critical needs, but funds are diverted or stolen while citizens suffer.

House Committee on Financial Crimes Chairman, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe  represented by committee clerk Austin Adesoro  called for stronger whistleblower protections and the sanctioning of corrupt officials.

Representatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Barclays Consult Group, and the CCB all commended the initiative, stressing the need for continuous capacity-building and public sector awareness to block systemic loopholes.
The police in Anambra State have spoken on the allegation that some police operatives, who did not wear uniforms, broke into a private residence and extorted N1 million from a resident in the state.

How it started

A human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, in a Facebook post on Tuesday, said some unidentified men broke into a private residence in Awka ostensibly to arrest a male resident.

Mr Gwamnishu said the unidentified men later claimed to be operatives from the State Criminal Investigation Department of the Anambra State Police Command before arresting the male resident on the allegation of being a cultist without presenting evidence or a warrant of arrest.

What followed was even worse: After threats and intimidation, they extorted N1 million from him as bail and warned that if he spoke out, they would ensure he was sent to jail, the activist said.

He uploaded a video clip to his Facebook page showing the operatives attempting to enter the apartment through a window.

The clip also showed a screenshot of a bank transaction receipt indicating that N1 million was transferred to another bank account holder (name withheld).

The transaction receipt showed the incident happened at about 1:27 p.m. on 9 August.

This is not policing. This is abuse. This is criminality under the cover of the law, he stated, adding that such incidents destroy the reputation of the Nigerian police.

Mr Gwamnishu asked police authorities to investigate the incident, sack erring operatives and reform the police immediately.

Police speak

Reacting in a statement on Tuesday night, the police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, dismissed the allegations as handiwork of mischief makers.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, claimed the video clip was deliberately recorded and shared with bloggers in an attempt to evade justice.

For the avoidance of doubt, state intelligence operatives of the Command, acting on credible intelligence, raided a compound at Ifite, Awka, where suspected internet fraudsters and cult members were reportedly operating.

Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects resisted arrest, locked themselves inside, and refused entry, even after the operatives had properly identified themselves, as requested by the suspects, he narrated.

The spokesperson claimed the suspects were served arraignment notices and later granted bail to allow operatives to complete their court filings.

This was in compliance with the legal requirement of not keeping suspects in custody beyond 48 hours without arraignment, he said.

Mr Ikenga identified the suspects scheduled for arraignment over the allegation of Internet fraud and cultism as Chiemerie Chukwuma, Makuochukwu Ikegwuonu, Okeke Uzochukwu, and Uchendu Precious Ikenna,

Others are Mmaduachi Emmanuel, Arinze Duruma, Ugochukwu Israel and Emmanuel Chimuanya.

N1 million for bail?

Mr Ikenga said the police in Anambra State would investigate the allegation that the operatives extorted N1 million from one suspect.

However, any complainant with credible evidence to aid the inquiries is advised to come forward with such proof, he stated.

The spokesperson said police authorities in the state had reiterated their commitment to professionalism, transparency, and due process in all their operations.

The command hereby warns individuals and groups who attempt to mislead the public or obstruct law enforcement that they will face the weight of the law, he said.

Not the first time

Cases of police brutality, extortion and other unprofessional activities in Nigeria have continued despite sanctions by police authorities, such as dismissal from service.

The latest incident happened barely two months after the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, ordered the detention of three inspectors for extorting a man.

In February, police authorities in Abia State dismissed three officers for allegedly engaging in abduction and extortion.

Within the same month, police authorities in Imo State launched an investigation into the alleged extortion and assault of a couple by operatives in the state.

The Imo extortion incident occurred less than one week after police authorities began interrogation of officers who were filmed assaulting a man in Abia State.

In October, last year, police in Ebonyi began an orderly room trial of officers filmed extorting motorists in the state.

READ ALSO: Police arrest suspected oil thieves

Within the same period, the police in Imo State began another orderly room trial of four officers seen in a viral video clip extorting motorists in the state.

About three months earlier, police operatives in Bayelsa State extorted N3 million from a Nigerian man at gunpoint.

The officers were subsequently arrested after the victim petitioned police authorities.

The police operatives later returned the N3 million to the victim, about three weeks later.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) to pay N30 million in damages for unlawfully restricting a firms account for over a year.

The judge, Peter Lifu, in a judgement, also ordered the bank to immediately refund $163,592 wrongfully withheld from the company, Micoz Bluelink Enterprise.

Mr Lifu held that the bank had no legal basis for freezing the business domiciliary account or transferring funds from the account without a court order or notifying the customer.

The judge described the act as a breach of the banker-customers relationship.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the certified true copy of the judgment, delivered on 25 July, was made available to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, the UBAs action was ultra vires its powers, reckless and bereft of mercy.

The plaintiff; Akpasi Oziegbe, owner of Micoz Bluelink Enterprise, sued UBA after discovering the restriction of the firms bank account. His lawyers  Chikaosolu Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and Adeyemo Richard  filed the suit on their behalf.

The plaintiff said he incorporated the firm on 19 March 2021, with a domiciliary account opened thereafter for trading operations.

On 20 July 2022, the company discovered that the account had been restricted by the bank with a balance of $163.8 million meant for supply contracts.

The applicant made several enquiries to the bank seeking reasons for the account restriction, but the bank failed to respond or unfreeze the account, one the platinffs lawyers, Mr Richard, wrote in a court filing filed on his behalf.

Mr Richard equally contended during a court hearing that the bank allegedly transferred the money on 19 August 2023 without the companys authorisation.

The plaintiff, in the affidavit in support, maintained that there is no mention of fraud in the call-back request presented by the bank, and the document lacks proper endorsement and authenticity.

Banks defence

In its defence, UBA, through its counsel, Kalat Jatau, admitted the inflow of $163.8 million but claimed the funds were flagged as suspicious.

The bank said it filed a Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and temporarily restricted the account pending enhanced Customer Due Diligence (CDD).

The bank alleged that, the applicant was informed of the restriction and requested further documentation, which upon review, was found to be inconsistent with actual transaction amounts.

It further argued that the funds were recalled following a SWIFT instruction from its correspondent bank, Citi Bank.

Judgement

Delivering the judgement, Mr Lifu held that UBA breached its fiduciary duty and acted without court approval.

The bank failed to inform the applicant of reasons for the restriction and proceeded with unilateral withdrawal, thereby breaching the banker-customer contract, he held.

On the validity of the banks evidence, the judge found UBAs Exhibit A defective.

There is no mention of fraud or fraudulent in the document, which only states Possible Duplicate, and does not justify a call back, he said.

The judge also recognised the significant economic loss and business disruption caused to the applicant following the over one year restriction.

According to Mr Lifu, there is no proof the bank took appropriate steps before restricting the account or withdrawing funds, nor did it disclose where the money was transferred.

The judge held that bank customer funds could only be withdrawn from their account pursuant to an unequivocal instruction by the customer or a court order, and that neither of which was presented.

He declared UBAs actions illegal, unconstitutional and a breach of banker-customer relationship.

The judge, therefore, cited the banks conduct, the applicants status and economic factors in awarding damages.

These, he said, include the continual depreciation of the naira.

Mr Lifu, thereafter, awarded a N30 million in damages in favour of Micoz Bluelink Enterprise with post judgment interest of 10 per cent until the judgment sum is fully liquidated.

The judge also ordered the reversal of the $163,592 withdrawal.

Judge Samirah Bature, who delivered the judgment, held that the bank acted unlawfully by relying on an ex parte ruling from a magistrates court without notifying the customer. He described the action as illogical and a betrayal of the banker-customer relationship.

The failure of the first defendant to inform the claimant of the state of affairs on her account amounts to negligence and a breach of the duty of care owed to the claimant, he ruled.

The court directed the bank to immediately unfreeze the account domiciled at its branch on 63 Usuma Street, Maitama, opposite Transcorp Hilton Hotel, and publish a public apology to the customer, Abhulimen & Co, in two national newspapers and on its website.

About two weeks after the judgement against UBA was delivered, PREMIUM TIMES reported the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja similarly ordered Zenith Bank and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to pay N85 million in damages for freezing a customers account based on an invalid court order.

Judge Samirah Bature, who delivered the judgment on 7 August, held that the bank acted unlawfully by relying on an ex parte ruling from a magistrates court without notifying the customer. He described the action as illogical and a betrayal of the banker-customer relationship.

The failure of the first defendant to inform the claimant of the state of affairs on her account amounts to negligence and a breach of the duty of care owed to the claimant, he ruled.

The court directed the bank to immediately unfreeze the account domiciled at its branch on 63 Usuma Street, Maitama, opposite Transcorp Hilton Hotel, and publish a public apology to the customer, Abhulimen & Co, in two national newspapers and on its website.
An Abuja High Court on Tuesday remanded four women charged with child trafficking in police custody.

The police had charged the four women with criminal conspiracy and child trafficking.

The women, now defendants, are: Precious Silas, 30, Ngozi Unukwuwa, 47, Chisinau Onukwuagha, 40, and Favour Ohebegeim, 25.

The defendants are all residents of Karimo, a neighbourhood in the phase three region of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja (FCT).

Court hearing

During a resumed hearing on Tuesday, the prosecution counsel, Donatus Abah, told the court that the defendants used three teenage boys for alms begging in the FCT.

The teenage boys were aged seven, eight and 12, according to Mr Abah.

The prosecutor told the court that the four defendants brought the boys from Imo with a promise to enrol them in schools.

He alleged that the four women pretended to be blind and used the boys for begging for alms.

Mr Abah added that the women were, however, exposed by the Brekete Family, a human rights radio and television programme.

He further told the court that the offence contravened the provisions of sections 14(b) and 27 of the Trafficking in persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.

The prosecutor added that the offences also violated sections 3(1), (2) and (3) of the Childs Rights Act, 2003.

But the four defendants pleaded not guilty to charges against them.

Counsel to the defendants, B.C Nnadika, made an application for their bail. The prosecuting counsel, Mr Abah, did not oppose the application.

The vacation judge of the court, Justice Cyprian Agashieze, adjourned the hearing on the bail application until Wednesday.

Prohibited in Nigeria

Nigeria in 2015 enacted the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act which outlawed all acts of human trafficking in the country.

The Act prescribes imprisonment of not less than five years or a fine of not less than N1 million or both as general punishment for human trafficking.

However, the Act also prescribes imprisonment of not less than seven years or a fine of not less than N1 million or both as punishment for child trafficking.

Several persons have been convicted of child trafficking across the country.

The Kano State High Court, in July 2021, sentenced a man, Paul Owne, to 91 years in prison for kidnapping and trafficking of children in the state for sale in Onitsha, Anambra State.

A Federal High Court in Port-Harcourt, River State, in 2019, sentenced three persons to a combined 12 years imprisonment for trafficking a two-year-old male child and one other child.

NAN
An Ikeja Magistrate Court sitting in Ogba, Lagos, on Wednesday discharged Comfort Emmanson, the passenger accused of unruly behaviour and assault aboard an Ibom Air flight.

Magistrate Olanrewaju Salami struck out the five counts after the police withdrew the case, following consultations between the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and key stakeholders in the aviation sector.

Mr Keyamo said the resolution came after reviewing the 10 August incident, considering appeals from well-meaning individuals, and noting the remorse shown by those involved.

He added that Ibom Air had agreed to drop its complaint, prompting the withdrawal application filed by prosecution counsel Oluwabunmi Adeitan.

At Wednesdays proceedings, prosecution lawyer Oluwabunmi Adeitan informed the court of new developments and applied for the withdrawal of the case. The magistrate granted the application as requested and discharged Ms Emmanson.

Ms Emmanson, who was arraigned on Monday and granted bail of N500,000 with two sureties, had been remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre after failing to meet the conditions.

Shortly after her release, Ms Emmanson took to her Instagram account to thank her supporters.

Thank you so much for all the prayers, love, and support. Ive been released from prison, but Im still in pain due to how I was treated. I just need some rest and medical treatment before I give out my own version of the event. Thank you so much, my lovely friends and supporters. I really appreciate yall from the bottom of my heart. God bless yall. THANK YOU MY GREAT GOD!!!

Why passenger was granted clemency

In a statement on Wednesday, Mr Keyamo said consultations in the past 48 hours revealed that clear wrongs were committed by both the offending passengers and staff of the airlines involved in recent incidents at Nigerian airports.

He said Ms Emmanson, in the presence of her lawyer, had expressed great remorse during her police statement.

Following the complaint withdrawal, the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, and the prosecutor were to take immediate steps to secure her release from prison.

The minister also appealed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, which he said the association agreed to do.

Mr Keyamo announced a retreat for aviation security personnel next week to train them on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating conflicts. Airlines will also have sessions on staff conduct and passenger relations.

These decisions were taken purely on compassionate grounds, he said, adding that the government would not overlook future breaches of aviation safety and security.

Background

The 10 August flight from Uyo to Lagos sparked controversy after videos circulated online showing Ms Emmanson in a physical confrontation with a flight attendant.

Ibom Air alleged she assaulted crew membersstepping on the Purser, tearing off her wig, throwing her glasses to the floor, hitting staff with her footwear, and attempting to remove a fire extinguisher.

From the viral video, the Purser blocked her from exiting the aircraft until security arrived, after which she allegedly attacked security personnel.

Critics argued the airlines response was excessive and humiliating, citing footage showing her clothing torn during footage.

FAAN condemned unruly passenger behaviour, while the AON imposed a no-fly ban across all member airlines. Ibom Air also reported the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned both the assault on airline staff and the degrading treatment of the passenger, calling for fairness and equality in justice.

Mr Keyamo separately ordered sanctions against Ibom Air officials who leaked the video footage, and directed improved training in public relations and conflict management.

However, Ibom Air has denied that the viral video exposing the alleged assault on Ms Emmanson was released by their staff.

The case follows other recent disputes in Nigerias aviation sector.

Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1): FAAN accused the musician of misconduct for bringing a flask onboard a ValueJet flight.

He apologised, saying it contained water for a medical condition. The NCAA has called for his prosecution.

Also, Air Peace had accused Adams Oshiomhole of unruly behaviour that disrupted boarding at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, condemning it as unacceptable.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has remanded Ifunanya Phil-Olumba for allegedly failing to declare the whole of foreign currency totalling $14,567, 1,030, and CA$40 she brought into Nigeria at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The judge, Dehinde Dipeolu, fixed 19 August for the continuation of the trial after hearing the testimony of two prosecution witnesses on Thursday.

The first witness, Stella Ogar of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), told the court that the defendant was intercepted during inward clearance from the United Kingdom.

Mrs Ogar said Ms Phil-Olumba declared only CA$4,000, despite having CA$14,000.

We arrested her and handed her over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation, she testified.

The second witness, EFCC operative Felicia Paul, confirmed that Customs handed the defendant to the anti-graft agency.

She said Ms Phil-Olumba was interrogated and offered to make a written statement, which the EFCC sought to tender.

However, Ms Phil-Olumbas lawyer Edwin Anikwem objected, arguing that the statement was not obtained voluntarily and without a lawyer present.

The judge ordered a trial-within-trial to find out the truth and adjourned further hearing until 19 August.

The charges

The EFCC is prosecuting Ms Phil-Olumba on three counts under Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Under this provision, it is a criminal offence to fail to declare  or to make a false declaration about  cash or negotiable instruments exceeding US $10,000 (or the equivalent in other currencies) when entering or leaving Nigeria.

Conviction carries a penalty of forfeiting the undeclared funds, a minimum of two years imprisonment, or both.

The counts allege that on 22 July, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, she falsely declared $4,000 while in possession of $14,567.

In the second and last counts, EFCC stated that Ms Phil-Olumba failed to declare CA$40 and falsely declared 1,000 while in possession of 1,030.

After the charges were read to her, Ms Phil-Olumba, pleaded not guilty to all counts.

In a ruling, the judge ordered that she should be remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre.

Background

The EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 began investigating Ms Phil-Olumba after her arrest by Customs during a routine check on 22 July.

READ ALSO: Court discharges Ibom Air passenger accused of assault

She was scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom and allegedly claimed to have only $4,000 on her.

In a related operation, Customs and the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) intercepted a parcel containing ZW 101 trillion (about N426 billion) and 41.64 million Vietnamese Dong (about N95,746).

At the handing over of Ms Phil-Olumba and other cash seized at the airport to the EFCC, the Area Comptroller E.J. Harrison said the currencies were discovered during parcel examination at NIPOST.

EFCC operative M.A. Timta, who received the suspect and the seized items on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Ahmed Ghali, commended Customs for its vigilance and pledged prompt investigation.
A high court in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, has sentenced four men to seven years imprisonment for vandalising the property of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).

EEDC is the power distribution company in charge of electricity supply in South-east Nigeria.

The convicts were tried on a three-count charge of conspiracy, vandalism, and stealing. They are Ikechukwu Esseh, Ikedinachi Uche, Ukpai Godwin, and Uchenna Kalu.

They were arrested on 28 November 2023 for attacking a 7.5MVA injection substation belonging to the EEDC.

The substation is at Education Board Road, Afikpo, in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Judgement

Delivering judgement, the judge, Nicholas Nwode, found the defendants guilty on all the charges against them, according to a court document obtained by PREMIUM TIMES.

The judgement was delivered on 23 July, the document showed.

Mr Nwode said his decision followed a careful review of all evidence presented before him and consideration of the high incidence of vandalism and stealing of electrical installations in Afikpo.

The judge subsequently sentenced the defendants to five years imprisonment on count one, seven years imprisonment on count two, and five years imprisonment on count three.

The sentences will run concurrently without the option of a fine, the judge ruled.

EEDC reacts

The spokesperson of the EEDC, Emeka Ezeh, said the EEDC management has commended the judiciary for the judgement and appealed for a speedy trial of other pending matters.

We hope that this will serve as a deterrent to others out there, who may engage in such criminal acts, Mr Ezeh said in a statement on Wednesday.

The spokesperson said the electricity company appreciated the efforts of the youth leader in Afikpo and the communitys Task Force Team for mobilising for the arrest of the vandals, now convicts.

READ ALSO: Court remands Enugu native doctor who allegedly buried people alive

He said the effort of the youths was a clear indication of community support and collaboration in the protection of the electricity infrastructure in the community.

Mr Ezeh appealed to customers to support efforts aimed at safeguarding installations in their neighbourhood.

He decried the activities of vandals, which he said have negatively impacted the companys operations and the quality of service to its customers.

As a result, we continue to commit scarce resources to restore vandalised equipment  funds that would ordinarily be channelled to other areas of our operations that will benefit our customers, Mr Ezeh stated.

The EEDC spokesperson urged customers to remain vigilant and protect electricity installations in their neighbourhood from vandalism.

He pointed out that vandalisation of installations inevitably lead to service failure and inconvenience.
The United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) has urged mothers to breastfeed their children exclusively for six months to prevent the spread of diphtheria.

UNICEF facilitator, Chineze George-Ileka, said this during a sensitisation programme at the Christian Womens August Meeting on Wednesday in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra.

Mrs George-Ileka noted that exclusive breastfeeding strengthens a babys immune system and reduces the risk of life-threatening infections, including diphtheria.

She described diphtheria as a contagious bacterial infection that had resurfaced in parts of the country.

According to her, health authorities in the country have reported rising cases of diphtheria, especially among children under the age of five.

She said diphtheria primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to serious complications or death if not promptly treated.

Infants who are not exclusively breastfed are more vulnerable to infections due to weaker immune responses, she said.

Breast milk without water in the first six months of life provides essential antibodies and nutrients that help protect babies against infectious diseases.

It is a natural vaccine that builds the childs immunity and reduces the likelihood of exposure to pathogens, including those that cause diphtheria.

Mrs George-Ileka said that UNICEF had been visiting communities in the state to promote exclusive breastfeeding and vaccination through behavioral change among mothers.

Speaking at the event, the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officer for Anambra East LGA, Chinwe Udeagha, encouraged mothers to prioritise their childrens health by embracing exclusive breastfeeding and ensuring timely immunisation.

In her remarks, the Health Educator for Aguata LGA, Happiness Arinze, advised women to share the message of exclusive breastfeeding with their families and extend it to the grassroots.

(NAN)
With less than 30 hours to the conclusion of the ongoing United Nations Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, delegations from Nigeria and over 80 other countries have dismissed a newly released draft text proposed for adoption.

On Wednesday, the head of the Nigerian delegation in Geneva, Jibrin Ahmadu, for the first time, articulated Nigerias concerns about the new text. The contentious text was published about two hours before the commencement of a scheduled plenary at 4:00 p.m. in Geneva (3:00 p.m. GMT).

Nigerias reaction at the plenary comes after nine days of engagement during which the government had been absent from the crucial negotiations. PREMIUM TIMES had reported that the Nigerian government has been missing in action since the commencement of the talks last week Tuesday, despite the impact of plastic pollution in the country.

We have our concerns regarding the text that has just been released. We want to specifically mention that the text has gone out of the United Nations Environment Assembly resolution 5/14. It has not addressed the full life cycle approach of plastics, Mr Ahmadu said while delivering Nigerias statement at the plenary.

Just as several other countries took turns to criticise the draft text, the Nigerian delegate argued that the proposed text had no standalone article on health and measures to identify and restrict hazardous chemicals.

This, he said, includes endocrine-damaging chemicals that are also left out. The Nigerian official also lamented that the text does not reflect processes to address the impacts of plastic pollution on health and the environment in low and middle-income countries, where plastic production and consumption are increasing.

Requirements for transparency around the production and use of chemical plastics are left out. We believe strongly that if these are addressed, we may want to further engage, Mr Ahmadu said.

Emerging concerns about proposed text

Following the release of the proposed text dubbed Chairs Draft Text Proposal, the Co-chairs of the four Contact Groupsunder which the different thematic areas of the text were discussed and the Co-Chairs facilitators, took turns to deliver their brief remarks on issues /resolutions from their respective meeting groups.

All the presenters acknowledged that divergence exists among parties across blocs on the articles.

They also noted that some members, especially under the contact group, who were assigned articles 11 and 12, do not get the opportunity to discuss significant paragraphs of these articles.

These articles speak to contentious thematic areas among parties, such as technology transfer, international cooperation, as well as implementation and compliance, respectively, under the negotiating text.

After the legal drafting group made their presentation on the text, the session was trailed by criticism from heads of delegations across parties.

The delegates argued that there were significant gaps in the proposed text and it does not have the  tools to deliver on the mandates conferred on them by their respective countries.

A review of the new text by this publication shows that the content of the proposal was cut down to 12 pages from the controversial 35 pages that were initially published and presented last Saturday, after four days of negotiations.

The text is clearly unbalanced, and it is not a mandate for further deliberation, says Chiles head of delegation, Julio Cordano. Similarly, Columbias head of delegation, Sebastian Rodriguez, argued that the proposed draft is unacceptable and should not be moved forward.

This was corroborated by the heads of delegations of Panama, Fiji, the EU and 27 member states, Kenya, and Ghana, among others.

All of these officials expressed disappointment over the proposal, urging the INC Chair, Luis Valdivieso, to provide something new.

During the plenary on Wednesday, over 80 member states rejected the process and text, about four countries agreed on a way forward, while two United States of America and Paraguay were in between.

Several recommendations on the way forward were presented by these representatives. The majority of these delegates urged the INC Chair to consult regional heads of the disagreeing parties and then present a new text for deliberation at the closing plenary on Thursday.

In response to the criticisms, the INC chair explained that regional consultation is not working, and that he will need to sit with the Heads of Delegation (HoD+1) to agree on contentious issues. His proposal was dismissed.

We need an effective treaty for our people and planet, the United Kingdom head of delegation echoed.

As these back and forth continue, Nigerias delegation suggested to the assembly that the issues should not be flogged further, noting that since Red lines have been identified, and concerns have been registered, the proposed text should be adjusted pending further reviews.

It is important Mr Chair, you go back with your team, articulate what has been presented as redlines and concerns, then the document circulated for us to look at, after which we can have this meeting, he noted.

The official said Nigerias delegation will not sit in any regional meetings until the concerns are addressed.

CSOs/observer groups react

The INC chairs new text has elicited reaction among civil society groups in Geneva, as the final lap of the negotiations stretches through the night.

Reacting to the text proposal, Graham Forbes, Greenpeace USA, described the Chairs new text as a gift to the petrochemical industry and a betrayal of humanity.

By failing to address production or harmful chemicals in any way, this text glorifies the industry lie that we can recycle our way out of this crisis, ignoring the root cause: the relentless expansion of plastic production, Greenpeace said.

The group said for more than two years, negotiations have been mired in procedural gridlock, and tactical delays playing into industry hands, urging ministers in Geneva to reject the text, uphold the ambition they have promised, and serve the people who trusted them to act.

David Azoulay of the Centre for International Environmental Law (CIEL) said the new chairs text makes a mockery of a three-year-long consultative process that showed broad support for an ambitious plastics treaty that addresses the full lifecycle of plastics, including production.

While there are token references to UNDRIP, human rights, and human health, the provisions that follow undermine any and all measures that follow, the official said.

As the negotiation is drawing to a close, it is still unclear if the parties will be able to deliver on the treaty.

If a final text is agreed upon at the closing plenary proposed for Thursday (14 August), a meeting tagged the Diplomatic Conference of the Plenipotentiaries (DipCon) will be convened.

At the DipCon, countries will come together to adopt the treaty, which then opens it up for ratification. Treaties often bear the name of the city where the DipCon is held.
Osaic sign

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A former Osaic employee claimed her supervisors at the firm discriminated against her based on her Russian national origin, according to a complaint filed in New York federal court last week.

In the complaint, New York resident Alla Bronskaya claims she joined Osaic as an executive assistant on Feb. 12, 2024. According to the complaint, Bronskaya is originally from Russia but moved to the United States nearly 30 years ago and is an American citizen. Bronskaya noted that Osaic did not know her national origin when she was hired.

In the week after her hiring, Bronskaya claims she met with Lana Cafaro, her immediate supervisor, several times. During these meetings, Cafaro allegedly asked where Bronskaya was born, where she learned English and how many languages she spoke.

According to the complaint, on Feb. 22, Cafaro sent Bronskaya an email detailing a new set of workplace expectations applicable only to Bronskaya that no other executive assistant had to follow.

On March 1, March 4 and March 12, 2024, Ms. Cafaro referred to my language use as unprofessional, questioned my ability to understand English, and asked me to copy her on all communication so she could proofread my writing, the complaint read.

Several days later, Cafaro allegedly tried to put Bronskaya on a performance improvement plan and threatened to fire her, claiming she used exclamation points, emojis and non-standard spacing (though Bronskaya claimed she could provide evidence of similar language use in communications from other, American-born executive assistants).

After the alleged threat, Bronskaya asked to be transferred to another manager. In May, Cafaro allegedly asked Bronskaya to return the company-issued mobile phone, making it more difficult to respond quickly to requests. Nevertheless, Cafaro criticized her for having a slow response time of 13 minutes. (Bronskaya claimed other assistants could take hours to respond.)

In June, she was transferred to Brian Pearce, a senior vice president of risk management with the firm, but her situation didnt improve. In August, Bronskaya received a final warning letter from Pearce, which she claimed contained false allegations.

By September, Bronskaya contacted the firms human resources department, claiming the comments about her language had crossed a line. The following month, Chief Human Resources Officer Jeffrey Green notified her that hed found no evidence of discrimination. According to the complaint, Bronskaya was fired several days later.
New research by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership has called for urgent actions to close Nigerias teacher deficit, warning that without reforms to recruitment, training, and retention, the country risks worsening learning poverty among primary school pupils.

The report, titled Tackling Teacher Shortages in Nigeria: Recruitment, Training, and Retention Strategies was authored by Athena Centre researchers: Chinaza Igwe and Kosisochukwu Kingsley.

Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), the researchers noted that Nigeria suffers from a chronic shortage of teachers at the basic education level, describing it as a major risk to learning outcomes.

Nigerias Teachers Shortage

According to the NBS, the number of registered primary school teachers increased slightly from 1.41 million in 2020 to 1.47 million in 2022, a measly 4.3 per cent growth over three years.

However, UBEC figures for 2025 indicate a sharp decline to 915,593 teachers, suggesting rising attrition, the report noted.

Differences in administrative data sources partly explain the variation, but both point to an overall teacher deficit and slow replenishment of the workforce.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Teacher Shortage Report 2023 placed Nigerias teacher-pupil ratio at 1:35 compared with the UNESCO standard of 1:25 for primary schools.

In some conflictaffected states, such as Zamfara and Katsina, overcrowding is nearly double the recommended ratio, and shortages are most acute in rural areas. This shortage contributes directly to severe learning poverty, the researchers noted.

Solving Nigerias teacher crisis is more than a sectoral fixit is a strategic investment in national renewal, equity, and competitiveness. Every naira spent on teachers today secures Nigerias future tomorrow.

A PREMIUM TIMES investigation last year also revealed how over 60 primary schools have been shut in some troubled LGAs in Zamfara State, after teachers deserted them for fear of attacks by bandits.

The report identifies drivers of teacher attrition to low pay and welfare systems, insufficient professional development and access to continuing education, negative perceptions of the teaching profession and ruralurban disparities.

Teaching is widely perceived as a career of last choice for graduates, often regarded as a temporary stopgap rather than a longterm profession. Such perceptions deter talented entrants and contribute to high turnover rates, particularly among earlycareer teachers, the report added.

Lessons from other countries

Drawing from the experience of countries such as China, Mexico and Chile, the researchers made certain policy recommendations.

They said the examples demonstrated how deliberate policy action can overcome chronic teacher shortages, noting Nigeria can adapt these approaches to its unique context, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

The report noted how China successfully used housing incentives to strengthen rural teacher supply.

It, therefore, recommended an incentive-based framework such as targeted rural deployment packages, including housing and hardship allowances, noting it could attract teachers to the areas where they are most needed.

Equally important is expanding professional development and structured mentorship for earlycareer teachers, coupled with a dedicated national teacher taskforce to monitor recruitment, welfare, and classroom outcomes, the report said.

The Chile, Mexico experience

The report noted that Chile increased teachers salaries by 156 per cent between 1990 and 2002, launched national campaigns promoting teaching as a career and provided scholarships for top students studying pedagogy while also investing heavily in schools to improve teacher working conditions.

It added that the outcome was that teacher education applications increased by 39 per cent and average entrance scores rose by 16 per cent, indicating that pay and status improvements enhanced teacher quality.

The report also explained a 1993 programme that linked pay progression to professional development, experience and students performance in Mexico.

The initiative, the Carrera Magisterial programme, awards 25200 per cent of annual salary and has benefited over 600,000 teachers, improving quality through performance-based incentives.

The report also recommended an increase in Nigerias education budget to at least 15 per cent, as recommended by UNESCO. Although Nigerias education budget has increased over the years, it has consistently fallen short of the 15 per cent UNESCO recommendation.
Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger who has been in the news for assaulting a flight attendant this week, may become an ambassador of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, announced on Wednesday that AON is looking at the option of using Ms Emmanson as Ambassador for good passenger conduct, following the fierce altercation between her and the staff of Ibom Air on Sunday.

Ms Emmason was a passenger on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos on Sunday, and footage shows her in a physical confrontation with a flight attendant. Ibom Air alleged she assaulted crew membersstepping on the Purser, tearing off her wig, throwing her glasses to the floor, hitting staff with her footwear, and attempting to remove a fire extinguisher.

In the viral video of the altercation at the airport, the airline officials were seen dragging Ms Emmanson out of the aircraft, in the process exposing her upper body.

The passenger was later arraigned and remanded in Kirikiri prison on Monday.

Mr Keyamo, in his statement, said the passenger has shown remorse after the altercation and was freed on Wednesday evening.

The minister noted that the AON will work out the details of Ms Emmansons ambassadorial position.

For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to Community Service. It is not paid for and it is a voluntary service, Mr Keyamo said.

Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word Ambassador, it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office. No, it is not. It is free. It is not the first time it has happened in Nigeria, and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria.

In the same vein, the aviation agencies are also considering using Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) for such a role.

Last week, FAAN accused the musician of misconduct for bringing a flask containing alcohol on board a ValueJet flight. He apologised, saying it contained water for a medical condition. The NCAA then called for his prosecution.

The NCAA petitioned the inspector general of police, calling for an investigation against KWAM 1, a petition the inspector general referred to the commissioner of police in charge of the airport.

On Wednesday, Mr Keyamo asked Ibom Air to withdraw criminal complaints against Ms Emmanson. He also asked AON to lift the flight ban placed on Ms Emmanson and directed aviation regulators, including NCAA, to reduce the KWAM 1 ban to one month.

Mr Keyamo said both passengers have shown remorse. Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1, earlier lodged with the police.
Over the past months, the leadership of Mr Zacch Adedeji, the executive chairman of FIRS, has introduced a series of people-focused changes that have shown a tangible impact on our revenue system and the economy at large. His work has been based on practical reforms in tax law, improved welfare for staff and citizens, the adoption of technology to streamline processes, stronger teamwork across departments, and a leadership style grounded in clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is becoming more than a government agency. It is not today that we have been saying this, and it will not stop today or anytime soon. It is now being recognised as a partner in national development, driven by reforms that place people at the centre and deliver measurable results.

Over the past months, the leadership of Mr Zacch Adedeji, the executive chairman of FIRS, has introduced a series of people-focused changes that have shown a tangible impact on our revenue system and the economy at large. His work has been based on practical reforms in tax law, improved welfare for staff and citizens, the adoption of technology to streamline processes, stronger teamwork across departments, and a leadership style grounded in clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

Just this August, the agency launched an electronic invoicing system for companies with an annual turnover of five billion naira or more. It went live on the first day of the month, and by the second week, about a thousand companies had already joined. Organisations like MTN, Huawei, and IHS are on board. Others have until 1 November to comply. The process is firm, but the rollout has been managed carefully, giving companies enough time to adjust without disruption.

The effects are already showing. Afri Invoice, a local Nigerian company that provides e-invoicing solutions, has created 150 new jobs in seven states to meet the demand. It may seem small, but it serves as proof that one effective policy can open the door to more jobs and economic growth.

Not long after, on 7 August, FIRS held its first Research Day. It was not an event for long talks but a day of action and openness. Three main resources were made public. The first was the Tax Revenue Statistical Bulletin, containing more than fifty years of tax data from 1970 to 2022. The second was the official Research Policy, which sets out a framework for conducting transparent and high-quality studies. The third was the latest volume of the FIRS Journal of Tax Studies, now available online. These materials are open to researchers, journalists, students, policymakers, and anyone who wants to understand our tax history and the direction we are headed.

Step by step, these reforms show that when leadership is focused on people and guided by data, institutions can transform. The work being done at FIRS today is building not only better systems but also trust between the government and the people it serves.

Lets not forget that under the Tax Boss, tax education and public engagement have also taken a new shape. FIRS has stepped up its outreach to small and medium enterprises, offering guidance on compliance and breaking down processes that once felt complicated and far removed from the everyday business owner. The agency has also strengthened partnerships with state revenue services, ensuring that both federal and state systems work together, rather than compete.

Capacity building for staff has been prioritised, with training programmes designed to give them the skills and tools to meet the demands of modern tax administration. In addition, reforms in dispute resolution have made it faster and easier for taxpayers to settle issues without lengthy court battles, promoting a more cooperative relationship between the agency and the general public. Digital platforms have been improved, meaning that many taxpayers can now register, file, and pay from the comfort of their offices or homes.

Sometimes, you stop and wonder how one person can have so much vision while truly keeping the needs of people in mind. Dr Zacch understands difficult challenges but never loses sight of those who live them every day. His efforts are effective, making changes that touch many lives. The progress seen today comes from thoughtful decisions and a commitment to serve others. In a country where many lead for themselves, he leads for the people. When you think about leadership that combines critical thinking with care, the answer is not far-fetched. It can only be him.

Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service. [email protected]
Technology is here to stay. Its benefits are undeniable, but its dangers are just as real. It is up to us  as journalists, students, and digital citizens  to ensure it is used wisely, ethically, and always in service of the truth.

There is so much to learn these days  beyond the four walls of a classroom  especially through online platforms. One such enlightening experience was the virtual seminar hosted by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) on 8 July.

This article is a joint reflection from me and two fellow PRNigeria interns, Egiganya Jo-Madugu and Bilkisu Ahmed Shekarau, who also participated in the session.

The seminar was moderated by Glory Itiafe, a broadcast journalist with Diamond 88.5 FM, Osun State. The distinguished panelists included David Ajikobi, Nigeria Editor at Africa Check; Ebunoluwa Olafusi, Head of the Fact-Check Desk at TheCable; and Kemi Busari, Editor at Dubawa and winner of WSCIJs 2023 online journalism award. Also present was Olaoluwa Adeleye, programme officer at WSCIJ.

The sessions theme  Indulging Technology: The Double-Edged Force Behind Misinformation and Its Detection  explored how technology can both serve and subvert the pursuit of truth.

As Itiafe rightly stated in her opening, technology today is both a blessing and a burden. It is not just a tool for disseminating information, but also a weapon for distorting it. The seminar delved into how digital innovation is shaping  and often reshaping  our perception of reality. The question at the heart of the conversation was: Is technology helping us discover truth or blurring the lines between reality and deception?

As participants, we acknowledged that technology has become a powerful agent of three major information disorders: misinformation, which is the unintentional sharing of false or inaccurate information; disinformation, the deliberate spread of falsehoods to mislead; and malinformation, the use of factual information in a misleading context to cause harm.

Panelist Olaoluwa Adeleye emphasised that while digital platforms offer great tools for discovery and reporting, they are equally exploited to influence public opinion and drown out truth through manipulated narratives.

This concern raises an even broader question: is human judgment losing its relevance in the age of artificial intelligence (AI)? While theres no definitive answer, the consensus was that the value of technology lies in how it is used. Like any tool, its impact depends on intent and regulation.

David Ajikobi recalled a previous WSCIJ seminar in October 2024 in Abuja, which focused on AI and the Future of Investigative Journalism. He noted that while AI offers support to journalistic work, it also introduces significant complications. A core issue is that many AI tools  especially foreign-developed ones  lack the cultural and contextual understanding needed to effectively serve Nigerian media spaces. This often results in biased outputs or inaccurate fact-checks.

Another challenge, he said, stems from the growing reliance on digital tools by untrained or self-proclaimed journalists, making it harder for the average person to differentiate between authentic and fabricated news.

Despite these concerns, technology does offer substantial advantages. Fact-checkers use bots and algorithms to swiftly discredit falsehoods and identify manipulated content. AI can be both the source and the solution to misinformation.

Yet, as AI continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly difficult for humans to keep pace. Ebunoluwa Olafusi raised concerns about the diminished role of human editorial judgment in todays media environment. She explained that AI, while useful, cannot replace human reasoning or the editorial insight needed to analyse and contextualise complex issues. She mentioned certain AI-powered tools used to detect image distortions  helpful, yes, but often inaccurate, and requiring the intervention of media experts.

The discussion also focused on future safeguards. One key recommendation was the regulation of AI tools and platforms to ensure responsible usage. Panelists urged researchers and content creators to be more innovative and intelligent in their application of digital tools. This would ensure that human intellect remains relevant and irreplaceable, even in an AI-dominated future.

As the seminar approached its conclusion, Itiafe opened the floor for a question-and-answer session, allowing listeners to share perspectives and seek clarifications. Each panelist then gave a final remark, reinforcing the need for balance between technology and human oversight.

What became clear from the session is that AI is not just influencing how we work  it is also reshaping what we do. A notable example is TVC News, which recently launched Nigerias first AI-powered multilingual news anchors. While this is an impressive technological leap, it also raises concerns about job displacement. Will AI eventually take over human roles in media and communication? Will journalists and news producers be replaced by code and algorithms?

These are questions we must confront with urgency. The seminar underscored the need for digital literacy, ethical innovation, and responsible AI use. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our critical thinking and ethical frameworks.

Technology is here to stay. Its benefits are undeniable, but its dangers are just as real. It is up to us  as journalists, students, and digital citizens  to ensure it is used wisely, ethically, and always in service of the truth.

Aisha Ibrahim Halilu is a Mass Communication student at Nile University and an intern with communication form in Abuja. She can be reached via: [email protected]
I therefore call on the newly appointed Chairman of the NIPSS Governing Board, Senator Ken Nnamani, to encourage the Director-General, Professor Ayo Omotayo, to steer the Institute away from its increasingly militarised and authoritarian approach to participant engagement. Instead, NIPSS should take a cue from the PRNigeria Fellowship model  one that upholds dignity, intellectual freedom, and mentorship rooted in respect, not intimidation.

The recent experience of Mallam Yushau Shuaib, the respected founder of PRNigeria, at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, was not just shocking, it was profoundly disheartening. What was meant to be a prestigious engagement with Nigerias foremost policy institute became, for him, an ordeal marked by exclusion, and institutional opacity.

While the public has seen only fragments of what transpired  such as his suspension following harmless and positive media reports on Nigerias digital and blue economy  it is the untold layers of this episode that are most troubling. Mr Shuaib disclosed that even though he was suspended for nearly two months before his unwarranted expulsion, he was never formally notified of the duration or conditions. He only discovered, through media coverage, that he had been withdrawn  an action NIPSS belatedly tried to justify through its spokesperson, Mr Sola Adeyanju.

Most disturbing, however, was the unauthorised interception of PRNigerias official email account by NIPSS officials. It was allegedly used to issue a query to Mr Shuaib without his consent, raising serious concerns about cyber intrusion, privacy violations, and institutional abuse of power.

As an alumnus of the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship, I joined other Fellows  led by Salim Yunusa  on a solidarity visit to Mr Yushau Shuaib in Abuja, not only to express our support but also to congratulate him on the recent shortlisting of the Fellowship programme for prestigious honours at this years Public Relations Awards. The programme was recognised at the African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference and nominated for the Golden World Awards by the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), whose nomination certificates he graciously shared with us.

During our visit, Mr Shuaib, though initially reserved, eventually opened up reluctantly about his ordeal at NIPSS. His account revealed a disturbing chain of events that left us questioning whether the esteemed policy institute still lives up to its mandate of nurturing national leadership  or if it has sadly devolved into a theatre of institutional intimidation.

To his credit, Mr Shuaib refrained from criticising NIPSS as an institution, its leadership, or its alumni. Instead, he voiced his disappointment over the conduct of a few Directing Staff  most of whom, he pointed out, are arrogant and not permanent faculty members. He emphasised that participants in the Senior Executive Course (SEC 47), like those before them, are already accomplished professionals  Directors, Chief Executives, and senior figures in both the public and private sectors  who should not be subjected to demeaning treatment under the guise of mentorship.

These participants are not novices in need of basic grooming, he remarked. In fact, many are more accomplished and globally exposed than some of the Directing Staff themselves, whose own conduct often reveals a lack of training in emotional intelligence, human relations, and professional courtesy.

This experience stands in stark contrast to what I  and other participants  experienced under the PRNigeria Fellowship. At our training centres in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin, we were never made to feel small. We were seen as contributors, not subordinates. Our sessions featured dignitaries like Professor Ali Isa Pantami; Dr Ike Neliaku (president of NIPR); NUJs immediate past president, Chris Isiguzo; and the DG of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Ndace, among other personalities.

He noted pointedly: The mni badge should symbolise more than prestige. It should embody strategic thinking and a commitment to national service.

He recounted how a handful of individuals within the Directing Staff allegedly orchestrated a campaign to undermine him. During the Abuja leg of the Institutional Study Tour in April, co-led by Barrister Nima Salman Mann and Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, Shuaib facilitated a rescheduled meeting at a federal investment ministry through his personal contact  a Permanent Secretary and career diplomat. However, during an informal introductory chat, a NIPSS Directing Staff member openly cautioned the diplomat, declaring, We dont allow our hosts to fraternise with participants!  a comment that cast an appalling cloud over the visit, as if the participants were inmates, rather than senior executives.

Worse still, when another Directing Staff member berated the group for not asking enough questions, a participant who respectfully sought clarification afterward was reportedly met with vulgar, unprofessional language. Such misconduct is unbecoming of any academic institution, let alone one tasked with nurturing Nigerias strategic thinkers.

In a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police over the alleged cybercrime, Mr Shuaib named Barrister Nima Salman Mann, Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, and Professor Elias Wahab as those behind the queries and the intercepted email. It is mind-boggling that a lawyer, a senior military officer, and a scholar would reportedly target a communications professional over advocacy efforts that have not only promoted national interests but could earn global recognition. One is left to wonder: Was it envy? Or were they acting on behalf of some invisible hand?

This experience stands in stark contrast to what I  and other participants  experienced under the PRNigeria Fellowship. At our training centres in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin, we were never made to feel small. We were seen as contributors, not subordinates. Our sessions featured dignitaries like Professor Ali Isa Pantami; Dr Ike Neliaku (president of NIPR); NUJs immediate past president, Chris Isiguzo; and the DG of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Ndace, among other personalities. We also visited strategic institutions such as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), NTA, Daily Trust Headquarters, among others, gaining hands-on experience and real-world insights.

We were mentored with compassion, challenged intellectually, and encouraged to voice our ideas. Despite the programme being tuition-free, we were fed, respected  and even rewarded. Top-performing Fellows from each centre received scholarships to the PR Finishing School. Two Fellows, Kabir Ali Fagge and Haroon Aremu Abiodun, who co-authored a book during their NYSC service at PRNigeria Centre, were granted postgraduate scholarships. Today, they are pursuing their Masters degrees at one of Nigerias top universities offering Mass Communication.

Contrast this with Mr Shuaibs NIPSS experience, where he paid 18.2 million for a policy leadership course, only to be sidelined from group activities, denied access to essential communication tools, and suspended without official explanation. Worse still, the wishy-washy rejoinder issued by NIPSS Spokesperson, Mr Adeyanju claimed the suspension was for six weeks, yet the official letter stated no such duration  an inconsistency that highlights procedural incompetence and lack of transparency by the officials.

Across the globe, true think tanks are celebrated for openness, rigorous debate, and respect for divergent views. If NIPSS wishes to retain its standing as a credible continental institution, it must rise above pettiness, suppressive tendencies, and toxic internal politics.

These troubling developments raise critical questions about the integrity and purpose of the institution. What kind of strategic policy institute punishes a participant for engaging in public policy commentary? Why would a national think tank  tasked with fostering thought leadership  resort to surveillance, secrecy, and retroactive justifications? And how can an institute that claims to groom future national leaders be so intolerant of intellectual diversity and dissenting viewpoints?

Across the globe, true think tanks are celebrated for openness, rigorous debate, and respect for divergent views. If NIPSS wishes to retain its standing as a credible continental institution, it must rise above pettiness, suppressive tendencies, and toxic internal politics.

The PRNigeria Fellowship has, in less than a year, modelled what 21st-century leadership training should embody  respect, integrity, innovation, and empathy. It has produced changemakers, empowered young communicators, and fostered excellence without coercion.

For many of us Fellows, the humiliation meted out to Mr Shuaib is not just unjust  it is personal. This is a man who has, with humility and selflessness, mentored hundreds of young professionals. He deserves better. And Nigeria deserves better from its institutions.

Rather than alienate one of the countrys finest communicators, NIPSS should reflect on how it treats those within its care. Because institutional greatness is not built by history or reputation alone  it is earned by how it treats people, especially in moments of disagreement.

I therefore call on the newly appointed Chairman of the NIPSS Governing Board, Senator Ken Nnamani, to encourage the Director-General, Professor Ayo Omotayo, to steer the Institute away from its increasingly militarised and authoritarian approach to participant engagement. Instead, NIPSS should take a cue from the PRNigeria Fellowship model  one that upholds dignity, intellectual freedom, and mentorship rooted in respect, not intimidation. If NIPSS is truly committed to grooming strategic leaders, it must reflect the very values it seeks to instil.

Umar Farouk Bala is a campus journalism award (CJA) winner and a First Class graduate of Political Science and International Relations. He can be reached at [email protected]
Win or lose, Jonathan has nothing to worry about; he only needs courage in his own convictions. Hes already made a name for his peaceful disposition and democratic credentials, admired for his humility, tolerance and politics without bitterness. Who knows what providence has in store for him?

Until last week or so, citizens observing political developments in Nigeria had given up on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which was in power for the first 16 years of this republic. The party was so decimated that within the last two years, since the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, took charge, about 140 prominent opposition members have defected to the APC, based on statistics given by Bamidele Atoyebi, convener of the BAT Ideological Group. Among them are the governors of Akwa Ibom and Delta states, the entire Edo State lawmakers, 27 Rivers State lawmakers and powerful politicians like Minister Nyesom Wike, who has one leg in PDP and another in APC.

So bad was the PDP situation that when the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerged, it was mainly from the supposed ashes of PDP and aggrieved APC members. Most of the faces at the ADC outing were people who had played significant roles in the PDPs 16-year rule, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-governors, ministers and others. A few weeks ago, the ruling APC was super-excited about its gains; the new baby of the moment, ADC was being celebrated and touted as an effective opposition party; and those who lost out in the power dynamics viewed the ADC as a viable vehicle to jump on and realise their ambitions. PDP was considered a dead horse.

Suddenly that dead horse seems to be kicking again, woken from a long slumber by the kick-started breath of one man, symbolised by the alleged second coming of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. He has not said a word; his body language does not betray anything yet, but the polity is already stirred and abuzz about the prospect of Mr Jonathans presidential candidacy.

The Jonathan story seems to be gaining traction. Those who had signed up for ADC are developing cold feet. Are we about to witness another major political realignment? Is Jonathan going to run? Is he qualified, legally speaking? Can he defeat the man who tormented him to submission and defeat, and rattle the apple cart? Are political juggernauts like Atiku and Peter Obi in a fix? How will they fit into the unfolding dynamics? I have no idea; I do not have all the answers. One thing is certain though: interesting times are ahead of us.

Before Jonathan came into reckoning this time, PDP was faltering. All is still not well with the party, having been hijacked by persons working for the ruling party. If the political class under the PDP umbrella thinks of Jonathan as a safe option for the giant with clay feet, how is he a safe option for Nigerians? For a man who was so vilified, called names and thrown into the dustbin of history, now being propped up, rebranded and seen as a possible option, is an indication of a yawning gap in our current governance structure. All over the country and on social media, the feeling of nostalgia, of a lost chance, of time past when families could afford three square meals without breaking the bank, a time when money had value, and they could drive to fuel stations and fill their cars, have all become front-burner conversations.

If the PDP concedes to Jonathan and offers their ticket unchallenged, squaring up with the ruling partys master strategist like Tinubu would be a Herculean task. Not when at least 30 federal lawmakers, and many state assemblies including Rivers, Edo and local/grassroots opposition politicians have crossed over to the ruling party, citing divisions and crises in their own parties, even as the APC controls 23 out of 36 states with their governors fully in charge to cause considerable harm to Jonathans bid.

Nigerians were hungry for a change and got one. What then has changed when the former president and Nigerias dysfunctional society have not changed? I do not see the groundswell of support for Jonathan as validation of an ambition, but rather as an exigency of the moment. This moment. Therefore, we must interrogate issues beyond the personal ambitions of recycled leadership. What will Jonathan do differently if he holds the aces as the PDP seems to be envisaging? What do Atiku and Obi have to offer beyond what they told us in 2023?

With regards to Jonathan, Nigerians are not asking for much; they wouldnt mind if he could just reenact his past. Recall the 2012 fuel subsidy removal protest spearheaded by the current men of power, and Jonathan was forced to capitulate, in contrast with how President Tinubu decreed the same bitter pills of fuel subsidy removal on his swearing-in rostrum. That pronouncement and the subsequent devaluation of the naira altered our lives since then, such that not even social programmes, palliatives and the CNG revolution to cushion the effect of that one bad decision, have been able to reverse it. Those two policies have also changed the perception that Nigerians had of Tinubu, and they are now questioning their judgment. But Tinubus support base wont hear of it. I cant question their tenacity, but our reality is to the contrary.

Jonathan has kept a low profile since leaving office. His gentle mien, legendary humility, being the first incumbent to concede defeat in Nigeria, have all carved a niche for him. A combination of all these makes him a powerhouse and a force for good on the African continent. Starting out as an underdog, disruptor, and quite unexpectedly, he became a celebrated Nigerian and African statesman, becoming UN Global Crisis Envoy, Chairperson of International Summit Council for Peace and Special Envoy-Mediator on Malian protests.

Despite these, how could Jonathan be an answer to the countrys desperate situation? Talk about a rejected stone becoming a cornerstone? Too early to tell anyway, but the thought of it seems anomalous.

Going practical, how will Jonathan fare in the face of contending forces? Agitations from the North and the Atiku, Obi challenges are difficult nuts to crack. As a former president, it will be embarrassing for Jonathan to run and lose. If the PDP concedes to Jonathan and offers their ticket unchallenged, squaring up with the ruling partys master strategist like Tinubu would be a Herculean task. Not when at least 30 federal lawmakers, and many state assemblies including Rivers, Edo and local/grassroots opposition politicians have crossed over to the ruling party, citing divisions and crises in their own parties, even as the APC controls 23 out of 36 states with their governors fully in charge to cause considerable harm to Jonathans bid.

if the former president throws his hat in the ring, he might be an answer for the Souths insistence on completing its eight-year tenure now informally institutionalised, despite the onslaught and push-back from the North on the basis of Tinubus alleged nepotistic appointments, even after giving the president the winning votes of about 64 per cent.

Meanwhile, if the former president throws his hat in the ring, he might be an answer for the Souths insistence on completing its eight-year tenure now informally institutionalised, despite the onslaught and push-back from the North on the basis of Tinubus alleged nepotistic appointments, even after giving the president the winning votes of about 64 per cent.

Second, even though the North, in cahoots with the South-West, was instrumental to Jonathans defeat in 2015 through the Buhari factor, the North might be more comfortable with a Jonathan comeback than a Tinubu continuity. The Nigerian political landscape is full of thorns, surprises and uncertainties that require adeptness and workable strategies to navigate through. Jonathan surely needs to do some introspection.

He must have self-doubts though: whether to run out of conviction, whether he has solutions to Nigerias myriad of problems or pressures from loyalists and PDP members eager to rebuild their sinking ship. In a book written by Manasseh Azure Awuni whose review I read last week, Ghana president John Mahama has this to say: All the decisions I have made in my life were regularly plagued with doubts. What I have learned from my experiences is that the possibility of danger lurks at the very edge of all of lifes decisions. So too does the potential for the most exhilarating ride of your life.

Win or lose, Jonathan has nothing to worry about; he only needs courage in his own convictions. Hes already made a name for his peaceful disposition and democratic credentials, admired for his humility, tolerance and politics without bitterness. Who knows what providence has in store for him?

Zainab Suleiman Okino (FNGE) is a syndicated columnist. She can be reached via: [email protected]
The road ahead requires unwavering focus, but Ribadus performance so far has shown that with exemplary leadership, coordination, and commitment to both state and human security, Nigeria can  and is beginning to  turn the tide.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Malam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser (NSA) in June 2023, the reaction was swift and mixed. Some critics lamented the departure from the traditional norm of appointing military generals to the role. But for many Nigerians  particularly within civil society, the intelligence community, and security policy circles  the appointment marked a bold, progressive shift. It was a strategic signal that Nigeria was finally ready to recalibrate its national security architecture, placing human security and intelligence-led policing at its core.

Ribadus background was a refreshing departure from the past. A former top-tier police officer who rose to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) and the pioneer Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ribadu brought with him deep institutional memory, investigative acumen, and intelligence experience. His appointment symbolised the fusion of traditional state security with modern human security principles  bridging the gap between civilian oversight and military-led operations.

When he assumed office, Ribadu inherited one of the most complex and multifaceted security crises in Nigerias history. In the North-East, Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) continued to pose serious threats. The North-West struggled with ruthless banditry and gun violence. In the North-Central, farmer-herder conflicts persisted. The South-East experienced secessionist movements led by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The South-South simmered with latent militancy and oil theft, while the South-West faced sporadic ritual killings and kidnappings.

It was a perfect storm. But Ribadu did not flinch.

Rather than resort to rhetoric or blame games, he opted for a strategic, intelligence-led approach. He assembled a robust team of professionals, synergised operations among agencies, and focused on delivering measurable results. Within two years, significant progress has been recorded across multiple flashpoints.

One of Ribadus most significant achievements has been restoring relative peace in previously volatile regions. Southern Kaduna, once a hotbed of killings and abductions, is experiencing a calm that residents say hasnt been felt in years. Zamfara, which was effectively under siege before Tinubus administration, is now gradually regaining stability. Even in the South-East  where sit-at-home orders once paralysed states and unknown gunmen targeted security operatives  normalcy is returning.

Ribadu has also made gains in tackling oil theft and militancy in the South-South. For the first time in over a decade, Nigerias crude oil production is meeting and even exceeding its OPEC quota, rising from 1 million barrels per day to 1.7 million. This resurgence in output is directly linked to better maritime security, reduced sabotage of oil installations, and a relatively stable Niger Delta region.

The South-West, too, has seen a sharp drop in herder-farmer clashes and ritual killings. The feared Abuja-Kaduna expressway, once a hunting ground for kidnappers, has seen a marked improvement in safety and accessibility.

In a recent briefing, Ribadu outlined his achievements, including the suppression of large-scale terrorist attacks, the prevention of mass abductions, and the neutralisation of notorious bandit leaders like Kachalla Ali Kawaje, Kachalla Halilu Sububu, and Kachalla Damina. According to him, Boko Haram activities have dropped by 8 per cent in recent times, and only 16 per cent of the total 394 terrorist attacks in 2023 occurred under the Tinubu administration.

These are not just statistics. They represent real lives saved, territories regained, and a nation slowly clawing its way back to safety.

Public affairs analyst, Reno Omokri, highlighted these tangible improvements, asking pertinent questions: When was the last time you heard of a school abduction? Or a bombing of the Abuja-Kaduna railway? Have you seen the people of Southern Kaduna complaining? What about jailbreaks by terrorists freeing their colleagues?

He also pointed out that more than 100 police stations in the South-East that were shut during the previous administration have now reopened, enabling better community policing. Oil theft has dropped to under 2 per cent, and peace initiatives like the Ogoniland clean-up and establishment of a new polytechnic are gaining traction.

These security gains are not happening in isolation  they have economic reverberations. Nigerias GDP has increased by $67 billion in two years, jumping from 269.29 trillion to 372.8 trillion. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised Nigerias growth forecast from 3.0 per cent to 3.4 per cent. The administration has also reduced the national debt from $113.7 billion to $97.1 billion, helped in part by efforts to curb illicit financial flows such as the $20 billion outflow attributed to Binance.

What Ribadu has brought to Nigerias security space is more than leadership. He represents a shift from brute force to brain force  from reactive crisis management to proactive intelligence gathering and multisectoral collaboration. His background in anti-corruption, law enforcement, and intelligence has enabled him to design and implement a security framework that prioritises synergy, speed, and results.

Importantly, Ribadu sees security not as a military campaign alone, but as a whole-of-society effort. His understanding of civil-military relations, community engagement, and non-kinetic approaches has made it possible to achieve peace in places where bullets and bombs have failed.

Nigerias security challenges are far from over. The country still faces several existential threats, especially from Islamic terrorists in the North-East, banditry in the North-West and criminals masquerading as Biafra activists in the South-East. But, even then, for the first time in a long while, citizens can feel the presence of a coordinated, purposeful, and people-oriented security apparatus. Under Ribadus leadership, what we are witnessing is not just a tactical shift but a strategic realignment  one that understands security not merely as a military endeavour but as a multidimensional issue involving governance, intelligence, socio-economic development, and trust-building.

Still, challenges persist  from the evolving tactics of non-state actors, to the socio-economic conditions that fuel unrest, to the need for more inclusive security policies that prioritise human security and local participation. To build on these gains, there must be continued political will, increased investment in technology and community-based intelligence, as well as transparent accountability structures across all layers of the security architecture.

The road ahead requires unwavering focus, but Ribadus performance so far has shown that with exemplary leadership, coordination, and commitment to both state and human security, Nigeria can  and is beginning to  turn the tide.

Jude Obioha, a security and public policy analyst, writes from Abuja.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has joined the global community in marking this years International Youth Day by commending the energy, creativity, and resilience of young people in the State, across Nigeria, and around the world. Governor Radda described the youth as the heartbeat of innovation, community service, and nation-building, emphasising that they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the driving force of today.

Our youths are the changemakers of our time. My administration remains firmly committed to equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to thrive in an ever-changing world, the governor said.

Over the past year, the Radda-led administration has rolled out a wide range of youth-focused initiatives designed to promote self-reliance, creativity, and sustainable livelihoods.

These include: Youth Craft Village Transformation, A total of 634 young people have successfully graduated from the Youth Craft Village, each receiving trade-specific entrepreneurial starter packs in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, ICT, welding, and more.

The facility itself has undergone a major transformation, now upgraded into a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Centre of Excellence. This upgrade includes the creation of new departments, the securing of international accreditation, and strategic partnerships with training institutes in Brazil and Kano.

In addition, new KYCV sub-centre vocational institutions have been established in Malumfashi and Daura, expanding access to hands-on skills development across the state.

In a complementary effort to boost agricultural productivity, the Katsina State Government has established an Agricultural Mechanisation Centre in Katsina, fully equipped with modern farming machinery.

Furthermore, sub-centres have been set up in all 34 Local Government Areas to ensure the initiative reaches every community.

As part of this programme, every mechanic graduate from the Katsina Youth Craft Village in each local government has been employed by their respective Agricultural Mechanisation Centres.

These young professionals now serve as custodians of the facilities, tasked with operating, maintaining, and managing the machinery that supports local farmers.

Governor Radda expressed his pride in this milestone, stating: I am very proud of this achievement. We trained these young people, provided them with starter packs, and ensured their local government centres employed them. This is not just about boosting agriculture it is a kind gesture that empowers our youth and strengthens our communities.

Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development

Through the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), the government allocated 3.1 billion in the 2025 budget to support interest-free revolving loans for youth and women-owned MSMEs, mentorship and apprenticeship programmes, and start-up business skills training.

KASEDA also launched a Digital Academy and disbursed 10 million to 200 local entrepreneurs, reinforcing the states commitment to building both digital and entrepreneurial capacity.

Combating Youth Political Thuggery

Through KASEDA, over 1,000 youths benefited from 252 million in empowerment packages under initiatives designed to promote entrepreneurship and discourage political violence.

Empowering Girls and Protecting Their Future

Skills centres in Katsina, Kaita, Funtua, and Baure were renovated and equipped, enabling 455 girls to graduate and receive empowerment kits along with cash support.

Supporting Exceptional Young Professionals

During a youth colloquium, Governor Radda honoured talented innovators, sponsoring one participant for overseas software training. He also fully funded scholarships for 68 students to study Artificial Intelligence and Biotechnology in China, and for 44 students to study MBBS in Egypt.

Enhancing Access to Education and Health for Youth

The Girl Education Development Initiative provided thousands of female students with learning materials. Over 104,000 girls in 255 schools benefited from conditional cash transfers, reducing dropout rates and improving attendance. Additionally, a mass measles vaccination campaign reached more than 2.2 million children across the state.

Digital Innovation and Technology Hubs

Through KATDICT, the Kirkira Innovation Hub Northern Nigerias first tech hub has trained over 3,000 youths through hackathons, coding camps, and workshops, while supporting several digital startups. Today, it stands as a vibrant centre for young creators and serves as Katsinas lead institution for the federal iDICE Programme.

Governor Radda also highlighted the creation of community-based youth leadership forums in all local government areas, aimed at encouraging civic engagement and giving young people a stronger voice in governance.

As a former teacher and youth development advocate, I understand the transformative power of investing in the young generation. Thats why we are working tirelessly to remove barriers that hold our youths back, whether in education, employment, or civic participation, he stated.

The Governor reaffirmed his administrations partnerships with the private sector, development agencies, and global institutions to further expand internship pipelines, mentorship opportunities, and innovation hubs for Katsinas young innovators and change-makers.

As we celebrate International Youth Day, I call on our young people to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their dreams. Together, we will build a Katsina State and a Nigeria that truly reflects the aspirations of its vibrant youth population, Governor Radda enjoined the youths.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State hosted the Deputy Minister of Agriculture from the Republic of Liberia, David Akoi, who came for a study tour focused on rice production in Nigerias northwest statethe countrys leading rice-producing state.

Speaking during the courtesy call at the Government House, Dutse, Mr Akoi said the visit to Jigawa would allow his team to learn about the complexities of rice cultivation, gain hands-on experience, and gain a deeper understanding of the entire rice value chain, which will, in the future, change Liberias current burden of rice importation from outside Africa.

In Liberia, rice is our staple food. We eat rice in the morning, afternoon, and night. It is not just a staple foodit is a political commodity. If you ever followed the history of Liberia, in 1979, we overthrew our president, William R Tolbert, just because he attempted to increase the price of rice. That led to the rice riot, which subsequently led to his ouster.

When we took over the government, we found that although we eat rice three or four times per day, we are not producing enough rice. In fact, we are importing 70% of the rice we consume. So, our government is determined to change that narrative, aiming to produce at least 70% of our consumption needs.

Mr Akoi said the president of Liberia decided to send him to Nigeria, particularly Jigawa State, instead of going far west to find solutions to his countrys rice demand.

We are here in a peaceful study of the rice value chains and how Nigeria has managed to progress from where they were to where they are, what lessons we can learn, and how they manage to overcome the challenges.

The simple reason we are here is to study what Jigawa has been able to do and what they have been able to accomplish so that we can take the knowledge back to Liberia to see how we can transform our rice value chains.

Responding, Governor Namadi commended the Republic of Liberia for choosing Jigawa State for the study tour, saying that the visit would enable both parties to share ideas and benefits with each other for the success of the rice value chains.

He highlighted his administrations strides in agriculture, maintaining that agriculture is the mainstay of Jigawa States economy.

Agriculture is the mainstay of our economy. From the onset of our administration, we resolved that the best way to improve Jigawas economy and the livelihoods of our people is to improve agriculture, he said.

In our first year, 2023, Jigawa was cultivating no more than 60,00070,000 hectares of rice. By 2024, we achieved over 200,000 hectares, and this year, we are aiming for close to 300,000 hectares. By 2030, our target is to produce 50% of Nigerias rice needs.

The state government believes it can only improve its economy and the peoples livelihoods through agriculture, so its implementing different programmes to improve agriculture.

The state is also implementing innovative agricultural practices to combat climate change. Climate change impacts production, so the state is shifting focus from rain-fed farming to irrigation. The irrigation system is expensive, but it is paying off. We are cultivating more land by revamping the existing 10 irrigation dams in the state, which is also increasing production by over 4,500 hectares, the governor stated.

He added that his administration has bought 300 new tractors with all the implements, 60 combined harvesters, 150 planters, and a host of other agricultural equipment to enhance rice and other crops farming in the state.

Governor Namadi said that the states 30 constituencies have a minimum of 10 tractors for subsidized hire services for smallholder farmers.
Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) chairman, Zacch Adedeji, has said President Bola Tinubus security agenda is yielding tangible results, commending the Armed Forces and other security personnel for their dedication in securing the country.

Dr Adedeji disclosed that for the first time in a long while, FIRS has been able to meet its 2025 tax revenue target for the oil and gas sector.

The FIRS chairman spoke in Abuja on Wednesday when the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Muss and his team paid him a visit at the Revenue House.

He said the increase in tax revenue from oil production activities was largely on account of the maintenance of peace in the Niger Delta area, leading to greater profits for the oil companies and higher tax revenue for the Federation.

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media, quoted Dr Adedeji as saying the development is in line with President Tinubus avowed commitment to taxing prosperity and not poverty.

He said prosperity could only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace, stressing the critical importance of stakeholders in the security sector to the sustenance of peace in the country.

The Armed Forces are critical stakeholders and you are central to the sustenance of peace in the country. The coordinating director, Large Tax Group made a presentation at the management meeting today on tax collection to date.

And I am glad to say that, for the first time in a long while, we met our oil and gas target which is actually as a result of the peace that has been maintained where oil and gas facilities are located. And this is because production is happening and companies are making more profit from it.

To strengthen the morale of our security operatives, President Bola Tinubu is committed to your welfare as well as giving them state-of-the-art equipment and machinery to work with.

Just a month ago, the President approved the disbursement of a huge amount of money for 1,550 units of housing estate for security personnel. This underscores that the President appreciates what you are doing for the country. And as you can see now, you are also critical to our success, Dr Adedeji said.

He pledged to support the successful hosting of the forthcoming African summit for Chiefs of Defence Staff to be hosted by Nigeria in Abuja.

We will always be open to collaborate in order to sustain peace, to increase prosperity and develop our dear nation. On behalf of the President and all of us at FIRS, we thank you for the good job you are doing in maintaining peace and safety for all of us, he added.

Speaking earlier, General Musa commended the management team of the tax agency for rallying resources for the country to meet its needs and fund the operations of the Armed Forces.

He said since Dr Adedeji assumed office as the head of FIRS, we have seen changes, very remarkable changes.

For us in the Armed Forces, we are nothing without funds. To even buy the good big guns we are carrying will be difficult without the funding. So, I want to say thank you. Over the years, you have made our job a lot easier, although we keep on asking for more.

I think that is the goal in support of Mr President in Nigeria. This is because without the funds made available, nothing can work. We have seen that revenue has increased. In fact, I think almost ten fold.

And we can see new initiatives being introduced that are also making a very positive impact. And it is the boldness that actually has encouraged us in what we are doing. And that is why we are putting everything we have in order to support and ensure there is peace and security in the country.

We are hosting the maiden edition of the African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference in Abuja. Its the maiden edition and it is happening between 25th to 27th August, 2025. Since it has never been done before, this is an avenue to showcase Nigeria to Africa and to the world.

Over time, we have been attending. Last year, I was in Botswana. The other year, I was in Cote dIvoire where it was organised by the United States. With what we have seen with their security architecture, we felt that if we dont blow our own trumpet; if you dont sit down and handle your own situation yourself, nobody will.

Most of these countries that always come and lie that they want to support us also create these problems that we try to solve. So having them organize these things for us is just like you are going to talk to the devil.

So, in line with that, we feel it is important that were able to call all chiefs of defense staff in Africa. Let us come as brothers and sisters and discuss African problems so that we can provide an African solution to them, the CDS said.
Regulators in North Dakota have given their approval for a 1,490-MW natural gas-fired power plant, a combined-cycle station that Basin Electric Power Cooperative officials said would provide the area with its first new baseload electric output in more than four decades. South Dakota utility commissioners, meanwhile, are set to consider an application for a smaller, 145-MW gas-fired facility in that state. The North Dakota Public Service Commission on August 7 said the Bison Generation Station project, representing an investment of nearly $4 billion, would be built near Eppling in the northwestern part of the state. It will feature two, 745-MW units, and be built in two phases. The first unit is expected online in 2029, with the second entering commercial operation the following year. Officials have said the Bison station, which was first announced in January of this year, will use natural gas produced in North Dakota, with officials noting it will support the state's oil and gas industry. [caption id="attachment_239283" align="alignnone" width="640"]

This is a rendering of the 1,490-MW Bison Generation Station planned near Eppling, North Dakota. Source: Basin Electric[/caption] Missouri River Energy Services (MRES), meanwhile, on August 7 announced the utility had applied to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission for permission to build the $378-million Toronto Power Plant, a 145-MW gas-fired station in Deuel County in the northeastern part of that state. The project would include four combustion turbine-generators, along with a new 4.9-mile, 345-kilovolt transmission line. It will source natural gas from an existing gas pipeline, and connect to a substation with access to the regional power grid. Officials with MRES said the site was chosen due to its proximity to existing transmission and fuel supply infrastructure. With regulatory approval, construction would begin in spring 2027, with commercial operation expected by year-end 2029. As our public power communities continue to grow, along with their energy consumption, were taking proactive steps to ensure reliability and affordability, said Terry Wolf, vice president and chief operating officer at MRES. The Toronto Power Plant will provide flexible, fast-start generation that complements the needs of the regional grid today, which helps us deliver reliable power to our municipal electric utilities.

Data Centers in North Dakota

Basin Electric officials earlier this year said the Bison project was not specifically developed in an effort to attract data center operators to the area, but regulators also have acknowledged the new power plant could support load from that energy-intensive industry. Basin Electric has developed a program to that would enable the utility to serve large-load customers such as data centers. Basin Electric said the Bison project is one of the largest in the co-op's history. Benjamin Hertz, manager of power supply planning for Basin Electric, at a June hearing in front of state regulators said the company needs new generation capacity because it is forecasting higher levels of power use from traditional customers, including the state's oil and gas industry. Much of this is due to oil and gas related activity in this region, Hertz said at the June 30 hearing. The utility said it has developed its "Large Load Program" in collaboration with its membership. Officials said the program is "designed to ensure that the costs and risks associated with serving new large electric loads are not passed on" to the co-op's current members. "Some of the key benefits for the development of the large load commercial program are to allow Basin Electric to flexibly serve new large loads in a manner that does not cause undue rate pressure on the membership," Dan Gallagher, vice president of Commercial Operations, said in late June, after the program was approved by Basin Electric's board of directors. "Additionally, this program will ensure that stranded asset risk associated with building new resources is mitigated." Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has congratulated Obinna Oriaku, the newly appointed commissioner representing Abia State in the Federal Character Commission (FCC).

In his message of felicitation, Mr Otti thanked President Bola Tinubu for the appointment and tasked Mr Oriaku to see his appointment as an opportunity to offer selfless and people-oriented services to the nation.

Since the body was established to ensure the implementation and enforcement of the Federal Character Principle of fairness and equity in the distribution of public positions and socio-economic opportunities among the various federating units of the Republic, its important that those who have been appointed in this commission are given the necessary support that would enable them make the desired impact in strengthening our democracy and engendering peace, unity and development in Nigeria, Mr Otti said, according to a statement on Wednesday from the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma.

The governor used the opportunity to congratulate other appointees from the South-east, Peter Eze from Enugu State, Jerry Alagbaoso from Imo State, Nnoli Nkechi Gloria from Anambra State and Nwokpor Vincent Nduka from Ebonyi State. He urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by their appointment.

Governor Otti assured that he will, at all times, render support to the appointees when and where necessary, to ensure that they succeed.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to the full operationalisation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubus Executive Order on Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), which designates telecommunications facilities as critical national assets deserving optimal protection.

This comes on the heels of a successful mediation led by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in collaboration with the Commission, which resulted in the suspension of a planned strike by the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA).

The strike, if carried out, would have disrupted the supply of diesel to telecommunications sites nationwide, severely affecting network operators ability to power their diesel-driven generators and maintain uninterrupted connectivity.

In the days leading up to the resolution, the ONSA, under the leadership of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, held strategic engagements with NOGASAs leadership, with the Commission providing technical and regulatory guidance to highlight the potential implications of service disruptions on national security, the economy, and everyday life.

The discussions culminated in an agreement to call off the industrial action, averting what could have been a nationwide disruption of telecom services.

Telecommunications infrastructure is the backbone of our connectivity and digital economy. Any disruption, whether through vandalism, accidental damage during construction work, theft of equipment, denial of access to maintenance teams, or interruptions in the supply of essential operational materials, has far-reaching implications for service delivery, economic stability, and national security, the NSA said.

The Commission expressed appreciation to the ONSA for its leadership and dedication to protecting national assets and commended the maturity and understanding demonstrated by relevant stakeholders in recognising the national importance of telecommunications services.

Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, stated: We will continue to enforce strict compliance by our licensees with technical standards for the deployment and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure, while working closely with relevant stakeholders to strengthen awareness and cooperation on their protection.

We also recognise mediation as an effective tool for building consensus among stakeholders. This resolution underscores the importance of dialogue in preventing avoidable service disruptions. Ultimately, we call on all Nigerians to regard telecom infrastructure as a shared national asset, one that underpins our ability to connect with loved ones, transact businesses, access healthcare, pursue education, and participate in the global digital economy.

The Commission reaffirmed that it would continue to coordinate with security agencies, industry stakeholders, and the public to ensure that Nigerias telecommunications infrastructure remains protected, resilient, and reliable for all.
The Katsina State Government will on Tuesday host the 2025 World Hausa Day celebration in the ancient city of Daura, putting the state on the global stage for one of Africas most significant cultural events. The celebration, which attracts participants from 25 countries across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, will showcase Daura as the cradle of the Hausa people and language to a global audience of millions.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, Kabir Ali Masanawa, said the celebration would reaffirm the legacy of the Hausa people whose traditions have shaped centuries of African history.

World Hausa Day is not just a celebrationits a reaffirmation of the legacy of a people whose language, traditions, and values have shaped centuries of African history. Daura is where the Hausa story began, and this year, the world will witness that story in its most authentic form, Mr Masanawa stated.

The Culture Bureau boss and organising bureau, noted that Hausa is currently the 11th most spoken language globally and is projected to become the fifth most spoken language by 2050, making it a linguistic force with growing international influence.

The day-long programme will feature a grand Durbar procession showcasing traditional Hausa horsemanship and regalia, cultural exhibitions on history, attire, crafts, and cuisine, as well as symposiums by leading scholars on the modern relevance of the Hausa language.

The event which fulfills Governor Dikko Umaru Raddas vision to promote cultural values also enjoyed partnership with Ranar Hausa ta Duniya, under its founder, AbdulBaki Jari. Mr Jari, a Hausa cultural advocate, described the movement as being about pride, connection, and continuity, adding, From Katsina to Kano, from London to Washington, the Hausa people are one family, and our language is our bridge to the future.

The 2025 edition promises unprecedented global visibility, wit celebrations spanning from Niamey to Kano, Abuja to Accra, London to Riyadh, and Chicago to Dubai. Cultural organisations, embassies, universities, and community associations worldwide will host simultaneous events, while international media channels are expected to provide live coverage from Daura to audiences across continents.

World Hausa Day was founded to promote and preserve the Hausa language and culture while fostering unity among Hausa-speaking communities worldwide and showcasing the economic and creative potential of Hausa heritage in todays interconnected world.
The Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its willingness to partner with the Northern Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) in repositioning the state to greatness through strategic economic collaboration. The Deputy Governor, Faruq Lawal Jobe, gave this assurance when he received the Chairman of the Governing Board of NNDC, Lamis Shehu Dikko, on behalf of the State Governor and Chairman of the North West Governors Forum, Mr Dikko Umaru Radda, during a courtesy visit.

Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Governor expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the partnership, stating: With the support of the NNDC, Katsina State can do more economically. Recounting the states achievements in renewable energy, Mr Faruq Jobe noted: The state government has done well in the alternative energy through solar powered, saying government is still doing more. The state government has approved for the generation of additional ten megawatt of solar powered electricity in the state.

The Deputy Governor commended the NNDC Chairmans presentation, saying: The speech of the NNDC chairman addresses most of the concerns and brought out issues that should be of concern to the States within the North States for them to transform their economy.

Emphasising the agricultural potential of the region, Mr Jobe declared: Agriculture alone is enough to take the entire region to the promised land. This potential existed in addition to the abundant mineral resources.

While congratulating Mr Lamis Dikko on his appointment as NNDC Chairman, Mr Jobe expressed optimism that his vast experience from both public and private life would transform the economy of the northern region. Speaking earlier, the NNDC Chairman explained that the visit represented a deliberate effort to engage in meaningful dialogue on strategic initiatives that align with the economic transformation and development aspirations of Katsina State and the broader Northwest region.

Mr Lamis said, NNDC stands firmly ready and fully committed to offering strategic investment opportunities that will breathe new life into the economy of Katsina State and the entire Northwest region through the innovative businesses we are passionately promoting.

He identified key sectors for collaboration, noting that these transformative ventures span critical and high-impact sectors including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and energysectors that hold immense and untapped potential for massive job creation, accelerated industrialization, and substantial wealth generation for our people.

Mr Lamis specifically commended Governor Raddas administration for several landmark achievements, including: ground-breaking solar and hydropower project, especially the $500 million clean energy investment deal with the UK-based Genesis Energy Holding. The NNDC boss also praised the revolutionary approach to IT infrastructure development, particularly the establishment of the Katsina Directorate of Information and Communications Technology, which has already trained thousands of youths, and the commitment to good governance and steadfast dedication to delivering Building Your Future campaign promises.

Let me once again reaffirm NNDCs absolute readiness to actively participate in Katsina State Governments transformative projects and to work collaboratively in promoting sustainable businesses across the Northwest region and the North as a whole, Mr Lamis stressed.

The meeting, held at the State Government House, Katsina, brought together key government officials and representatives from the NNDC.
The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the Baro River Port in Niger State into a thriving inland trade gateway, addressing years of underutilisation since its commissioning in 2019.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, gave the assurance on Tuesday while appearing before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Stakeholders Engagement on the Challenges and Prospects of the Baro River Port.

The ad-hoc committee was set up following the adoption of a motion calling for a national stakeholders engagement on the operational prospects of the inland port.

Mr Oyetola acknowledged that the port has struggled to operate at capacity due to the absence of critical supporting infrastructure, such as road and rail linkages, and navigability challenges along the River Niger.

He explained that the ministry, which was established a few years ago, inherited these challenges from the previous administration.

Limited funding, he added,, has further delayed essential interventions such as large-scale dredging.

He said, Although commissioned in 2019 under the past administration, the port has faced operational constraints chief among them, the absence of critical linkages to road and rail infrastructure, and navigability challenges along the River Niger.

The challenges are there, no doubt about it. When the issue of the port was being conceived, ordinarily one would have expected that infrastructures that would make it operational should have been provided.

Outlining measures to unlock the ports economic potential, Mr Oyetola said the government plans to improve navigability through capital and continuous dredging, develop connecting transport infrastructure, attract credible private operators through concessions and partnerships, and strengthen governance systems.

According to him, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) is preparing to dredge up to 2,000 kilometres of inland waterways to ensure Baro Port maintains the required depth for year-round operations.

He described Baros location as strategic, linking agricultural value chains and serving as a feeder to Onitsha, Lokoja, and Warri ports.

The minister said once fully operational, the port could boost Nigerias trade competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while easing pressure on major highways.

NIWA Managing Director, Bola Oyebamiji, traced the ports history to 1908, when it was established by Lord Lugard to facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and livestock between northern and southern Nigeria.

He said the port is equipped with the necessary facilities but remains hindered by insufficient dredging and poor transport connections.

The project, awarded at a cost of 3.56 billion, according to him, has been 94 per cent paid for, and arrangements are underway to concession the port to private operators to attract fresh investment.

On his part, the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, told the committee that plans are in place to connect Baro Port to the national rail network, but progress has been slowed by funding constraints.

He urged lawmakers to prioritise budgetary allocations for the linkage.

The committee chairman, Saidu Abdullahi, stressed that the panels role is to facilitate, not investigate, the ports operationalisation.

He said the engagement will be followed by a national stakeholders forum to mobilise political, technical, and financial support for the project, describing Baros economic and strategic importance as immense and non-negotiable.

The committee resolved to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the port on Saturday to determine the immediate steps required to make it fully functional.

The Baro River Port

Baro River Port, located in Niger State, is an inland port on the River Niger with strategic potential to serve as a central cargo distribution point for northern Nigeria.

Originally established in 1908 under British colonial rule, it played a key role in transporting agricultural produce and livestock to southern markets. Its modern reconstruction was completed in 2019.

Strategically located, Baro Port has the capacity to handle thousands of tonnes of goods annually and could serve as a feeder to Onitsha, Lokoja, and Warri ports.

Its revival is expected to stimulate agricultural value chains, create jobs, reduce transportation costs, ease pressure on Nigerias highways, and boost competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The police have arrested Moses Amarks, an 18-year-old student at the College of Health in Kwamba, Suleja, for allegedly faking his own kidnapping to extort money from his parents.

Mr Amarks and his accomplices reportedly used a hidden number to call his mother, demanding a ransom of N50 million for his release.

The police spokesperson for Niger State, Wasiu Abiodun, said the suspect and his friends were hiding in Kaduna, waiting for the ransom, when they were apprehended.

According to Mr Abiodun, On August 4, 2025, a report was received at the Maje Division that a hidden call was made to a female victim, claiming her son, Moses Amarks, had been kidnapped and demanding a N50 million ransom.

He said Mr Amarks was tracked to the Zuba motor park in Abuja.

Mr Abiodun said during questioning, the suspect confessed to conspiring with a friend, Emmanuel Moses (22), a former student at the same school, to plan the fake kidnapping to extort money from his mother.

He said Mr Moses contacted his brother, Jetro, in Kaduna, who provided them with a place to stay for six days in Karji village, Sabon-Tasha.

He said Mr Amarks told the police that he decided to resurface when the ransom was not forthcoming.

Mr Abiodun said the police investigation was ongoing, adding that efforts were being made to locate Jetro.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has announced a $3 million investment over the next two years to strengthen routine immunisation and primary health care in Kaduna State.

This is expected to accelerate progress towards universal vaccine coverage.

Jessica Crawford, Gavi Senior Country Manager for Nigeria, disclosed this during a high-level field mission to the state.

The visit included engagements with top state officials, health facility tours, and strategy meetings with partners.

Ms Crawford said Kaduna has shown strong leadership, coordination, and results in immunisation.

She emphasised that the funding would help build on those successes, tackle hard-to-reach areas, and ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines.

Ms Crawford explained that the fund drawn from Gavis latest Health System Strengthening (HSS) grant, would be implemented in collaboration with the Kaduna State government, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and other partners.

The funding, according to her, would focus on critical priorities such as improving vaccine delivery, addressing inequities in coverage, and reducing the number of zero-dose children.

Over the past seven years, Gavi has supported Kaduna through cold chain equipment provision, vaccine supply operations, outbreak response, workforce support, and direct vaccine procurement, she said.

We are pleased to see these investments in action and committed to working with Kaduna to maximise impact.

Similarly, Hassan Ousmane, Head of Routine Immunisation at NPHCDA, highlighted the federal governments role in ensuring vaccine availability nationwide.

Mr Ousmane said the federal government, through NPHCDA, procures vaccines for all states in Nigeria, ensuring every child is vaccinated.

Partners like Gavi complement these efforts with funding, equipment, and other essential resources to strengthen our health facilities, he said.

He noted that Gavis national pledge stands at $13 million over three years, with states providing counterpart contributions.

He said while Gavi often provides the larger share, the government also commits its own resources to ensure the country achieve full immunisation coverage.

Addressing the issue of children missing out on basic immunisation, Barkunawa Bello, Deputy Director of Routine Immunisation and Gavi Desk Officer at NPHCDA, explained the scale of the problem.

Mr Bello said by definition, a zero-dose child is one who has not received the first dose of the pentavalent vaccine (Penta 1) by the age of 23 months.

He said Nigeria unfortunately has one of the highest zero-dose burdens globally, with 2.3 million identified in 2022.

This has been reduced to about 2.1 million, but much work remains, he said.

Kaduna is one of five states, alongside Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, and Bayelsa selected for intensive engagement with Gavi to address immunisation gaps.

Mr Bello emphasised the importance of community engagement through religious, traditional, and local leaders, supported by the national risk communication team, to combat vaccine hesitancy.

Our strategy is to ensure no one is left behind. That means working directly with communities, men and women alike, to build trust and demand for vaccines, he noted.

In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Hadiza Balarabe, described Gavis commitment as a reaffirmation of the shared mission to protect the health and future of children in the state.

Through our joint efforts with Gavi, NPHCDA, UNICEF, and the Gates Foundation, we have expanded immunisation coverage, strengthened cold-chain infrastructure, trained and deployed frontline health workers, and improved health data systems, Ms Balarabe said.

These achievements translate into healthier children, stronger families, and lives saved from preventable diseases, she said.

The Deputy Governor acknowledged persistent challenges, including reaching children in remote and insecure communities and tackling vaccine hesitancy.

She reiterated the states commitment to revitalising primary health care facilities, deploying innovative supply chain solutions, and sustaining community engagement.

Together, we can not only sustain the progress we have made but also accelerate towards the goal of universal immunisation coverage and improved wellbeing for all, she said.

The Gavi field mission to Kaduna is part of a broader national effort to address immunisation gaps, with the next phase focusing on coordinated planning between the state, national agencies, and global partners to ensure every child is reached with life-saving vaccines.

Gavi is a public-private partnership comprised of various organisations including the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and the Gates Foundation.
The Lagos State Government on Tuesday launched the pilot phase of its Identifier Project  a comprehensive digital addressing system designed to modernise house numbering and street naming across the state.

The project, which will begin in Ikeja next week, was unveiled by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during the Nigeria Land Titling, Registration and Documentation Programme (NLTRDP) held in Victoria Island.

The programme was organised by the Lagos State Office of Electronic Geographic Information System (e-GIS) and Urban Development in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

Under the initiative, every building in Lagos will be assigned a unique digital identity embedded in a house-numbering plate featuring a QR code and colour coding specific to its local government area. The system is expected to improve navigation for emergency responders, utility providers, security agencies and residents, while enhancing service delivery and urban management.

This digital house numbering system is a novel idea, Governor Sanwo-Olu said while displaying the prototype plates. Its about using technology as a strong enabler to resolve our land issues. From the comfort of your home, you will be able to access and resolve land title matters. If you have the address of a property, all the information you need about it will be accessible.

Commending the federal governments Renewed Hope Agenda, the governor described electronic land documentation as the only way forward to reduce physical interference in land administration and secure property rights.

Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, said the Identifier Project is a major step toward modernising Lagos infrastructure and boosting quality of life.

He explained that scanning the QR code on a propertys plate would provide verified information on ownership, building approvals, bills and other official records  a move expected to improve security, curb rental fraud, and increase government revenue.

House numbering and documentation go hand in hand, Mr Babatunde said. At the back end, we have all the information ready for public access when needed. This is the age of technology  we must embrace it.

Earlier, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, announced plans to increase Nigerias land titling coverage to 50 per cent within the next decade.

He noted that over 97 per cent of land in the country is not formally titled, limiting its use as collateral and in property transactions.

He urged other states to emulate Lagos by digitising land registries, integrating geographic information systems and adopting global best practices.

Background

In June, the Lagos State Government launched the Lagos Identity Project, a precursor to the current Identifier Project, aimed at improving property identification and service delivery.

At the time, Mr Babatunde explained that the digital plates, featuring QR codes and local government-specific colour codes, would boost emergency response, postal services, and urban planning.

He said the initiative would help address challenges such as tax evasion and untraceable addresses, while scanning the QR code on a building would grant access to key property details.

The project was developed in partnership with Interspatial, which spent two years conducting aerial mapping across Lagos to create a standardised civic address system that meets global identification and data protection standards.
MILAN (Reuters) - Mediobanca defended on Wednesday its move to bring forward to next week a shareholder decision on its bid for Banca Generali, saying that an early vote was needed for investors to pick the best option for the bank.

Mediobanca announced its plan to buy Banca Generali in April and create Italy's second largest wealth manager, as it sought to thwart a takeover bid from state-backed Monte dei Paschi di Siena.

The merchant bank postponed the shareholder vote for the Banca Generali bid at the last minute in June in the face of possible defeat. It initially moved it to September 25, before bringing it forward to August 21.

Mediobanca has pitched the Banca Generali bid as an alternative to Monte dei Paschi's (MPS) proposed acquisition, though MPS says the two are not mutually exclusive.

It said its board had believed it necessary to have shareholders decide between the Banca Generali deal, which it said offered a unique opportunity, and the MPS proposal which was "financially and strategically wholly inadequate".

To pay for Banca Generali, Mediobanca would tender its 13% stake in the private bank's majority owner, insurer Generali.

Generali would receive its own shares back as payment, a proposal it said this month it was open to considering, together with a distribution accord Mediobanca wants Generali to strike with the new merged entity.

On Monday, Italy's Caltagirone group, a leading Mediobanca shareholder, said the vote would hand a "blank check" to the bank's board because details on key terms of the accord were missing.

Mediobanca said it simply wants the current accord between Generali and Banca Generali to be widened to include the new merged company and its duration extended.

"It's clearly evident that the core of the agreement to be signed with Assicurazioni Generali would reflect the existing one which Gruppo Caltagirone, as a shareholder in Assicurazioni Generali, is surely acquainted with," Mediobanca said.

(Reporting by Valentina Za; Editing by Philippe Leroy Beaulieu and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
HAIKOU, China, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from Hainan International Media Center:

In 1925, French linguist Francois-Marie Savina embarked on an ethnographic journey through Hainan, documenting the island's local Li culture in his seminal work Monographie de Hainan. A century later, AI revives his digital avatar for a cross-cultural dialogue with a modern Li Brocade designer, and an unprecedented cultural experiment is born. A Voyage Through Time debuts online Aug. 8, 2025.

Detailed AI recreation and restoration of historic photos. Explore this fictional encounter in the video

The short film A Voyage Through Time: Savina's Hainan Island Monograph redefines digital humanities by blending archival rigor with artistic narration. "The video stages a fictional encounter between Savina and contemporary Li Brocade designer who weaves Li brocade motifs into futuristic fashion," said the film's scriptwriter.

Using historic photographs of Hainan, the Chinese production team revive authentic 1920s Hainan landscapes. With a MoE (Mixture-of-Experts) model serving as a key technical and artistic solution, the film captures the physical appearance of an oil painting, while maintaining the accuracy and consistency of the historic scenes and human figures, including faces, facial expressions, hands, and clothes.

"As Hainan is bidding for the Hainan Tropical Rainforest and Traditional Settlements of the Li Ethnic Group to be included on UNESCO's World Heritage List, we wanted to 'paint' every stroke to honor both Savina's legacy and Li cultural creativity." explains the film's director.

In 2022, the Hainan Tropical Rainforest and Traditional Settlements of the Li Ethnic Group was placed on UNESCO's tentative list for World Heritage sitesthe first formal step toward nomination. A legal framework for protecting Li traditional settlements took effect in the following year, giving the centuries-old villages legal protection.

SOURCE Hainan International Media Center (HIMC)
Three Year Collaboration with the American Historical Association, the Modern Language Association, and the Society of Biblical Literature Aims to Identify and Introduce New Approaches for Humanities PhD Programs

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS), in partnership with the American Historical Association (AHA), the Modern Language Association (MLA), and the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL), has launched Doctoral Futures. This bold, three-year initiative aims to reimagine humanities PhD programs with new structures, policies, and academic cultures that will better prepare the next generation of knowledge producers. The program is made possible by a grant from The Mellon Foundation, with additional funding by the ACLS endowment.

Doctoral Futures with logos from partners ACLS, AHA, MLA, and SBL

Higher education has seen a stream of unprecedented attacks in 2025 that has been particularly destructive to the humanities and social sciences. Deep cuts to funding, staff, enrollments, and resources have resulted in real threats to if and how humanistic knowledge is produced and circulated through the training of graduate students.

In response, the Doctoral Futures initiative will lead a series of in-person and virtual committees comprised of institutional leaders, academic societies, faculty, and current and recent doctoral students. These committees will assess and reimagine humanities graduate education, from recruitment and admissions practices to curricular innovation and mentoring and retention practices to longitudinal examinations of career outcomes for PhDs. Doctoral Futures will also develop a robust, publicly accessible inventory of research on humanities graduate education innovation efforts, as well as produce new research on promising practices; engage institutional decision makers around adapting practices; and provide support for administrators and faculty as they implement new practices.

"The future of doctoral education in many humanities fields in the United States is bleak. We must find practical ways to fight austerity, help PhD students thrive when academic jobs are scarce, and engage them in the urgent mission of attracting the next generation of undergraduates to humanistic study," said ACLS President Joy Connolly. "Through the three-year course of Doctoral Futures, we will work collaboratively with our academic society partners to improve the graduate experience in the humanities for all students, including first generation college graduates and those from traditionally underrepresented groups. This initiative is aligned with our advocacy for changes in the faculty merit system, so that we better reward the necessary work of keeping undergraduate degree programs robust and growing."

In Fall 2025, Doctoral Futures will host concurrent committees to examine the landscape of higher education across three core areas: Preparation and Inclusion, led by the Society of Biblical Literature; Graduate Programs, led by the Modern Language Association; and Career Pathways for PhDs, led by the American Historical Association. The work continues through 2026 as innovative approaches are assessed with an eye towards consensus building on the most promising practices. Recommendations will be circulated broadly in early 2027 as part of a series of events to build buy in. A comprehensive report on progress and outcomes is expected to be published in 2028.

The Doctoral Futures initiative is convened by ACLS and led by Stacy Hartman, Program Officer, Higher Education Initiatives, and Treviene Harris , Project Manager. Hartman previously served as a consultant for ACLS, as well as the director of the PublicsLab at the Graduate Center, City University of New York and is the co-editor of Graduate Education for a Thriving Humanities Ecosystem (Modern Language Association, 2023). She holds a PhD in German Studies from Stanford University. Harris previously worked as a research consultant and facilitator for ACLS on the Luce Design Workshop for a New Academy and Intention Foundry. At the University of Pittsburgh, she coordinated the Graduate Student Teaching Initiative, and managed career exploration and professional development programming for doctoral students. She holds a PhD in Critical and Cultural Studies focused on Anglophone Caribbean literature and historiography.

Participation in Doctoral Futures working groups is by invitation. For more information email [email protected]. Sign up for news and updates on this initiative.

Formed a century ago, the is a nonprofit federation of 81 scholarly organizations. As the leading representative of American scholarship in the humanities and interpretive social sciences, ACLS upholds the core principle that knowledge is a public good. In supporting its member organizations, ACLS expands the forms, content, and flow of scholarly knowledge, reflecting its commitment to diversity of identity and experience. ACLS collaborates with institutions, associations, and individuals to strengthen the evolving infrastructure for scholarship.

Founded in 1884 and incorporated by Congress in 1889 for the promotion of historical studies, the American Historical Association provides leadership for the discipline and promotes the critical role of historical thinking in public life. The Association defends academic freedom, develops professional standards, supports innovative scholarship and teaching, and helps to sustain and enhance the work of historians. As the largest membership association of professional historians in the world (nearly 11,000 members), the AHA serves historians in a wide variety of professions and represents every historical era and geographical area. Learn more at historians.org.

The Modern Language Association of America and its 20,000 members work to strengthen the study and teaching of languages and literature. Founded in 1883, the MLA provides opportunities for its members to share their scholarly findings and teaching experiences with colleagues and to discuss trends in the academy. The MLA sustains a wide-ranging print and electronic publishing program that includes books, journals, style guides, and an international bibliography. More information on MLA programs is available at www.mla.org.

Founded in 1880, the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) is the oldest and largest learned society devoted to the critical investigation of the Bible from a variety of academic disciplines. SBL members are scholars, teachers, students, religious professionals, administrators, and staff in educational institutions, as well as interested members of the public. As an international organization, SBL offers its members opportunities for mutual support, intellectual growth, and professional development through several initiatives. These initiatives include organizing meetings for scholarly exchange, publishing high-quality biblical scholarship, and promoting cooperation across global boundaries. Learn more about SBL at www.sbl-site.org.

SOURCE American Council of Learned Societies
AVANT BIO nominated by the prestigious Foundation Galien for the Prix Galien Award in the "Incubators, Accelerators and Equity" category.

Award in the "Incubators, Accelerators and Equity" category. Unique distinction of having a portfolio company also receiving a nomination in the "Best Start Up" category.

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AVANT BIO, a pioneering early stage and growth equity firm, announces that it has been nominated for the Prix Galien USA award in the "Incubators, Accelerators and Equity" category and Intrepid Labs, an AVANT BIO portfolio company has been nominated for "Best Start Up". These nominations are in line with AVANT BIO's mission to invest in high-impact companies at the convergence of groundbreaking technologies and an enhanced understanding of biology.

Established in 1970, the annual Prix Galien Awards are presented by The Galien Foundation, the premier global institution dedicated to honoring innovators in life sciences. For the 2025 edition of Prix Galien USA, AVANT BIO is one of 12 nominees in its category, while Intrepid Labs was selected from a field of 55 companies. As nominees, both companies will be taking part in the Galien Forum business meetings and Galien Awards Gala in New York in October with industry experts and key actors in the US healthcare sector.

"We are deeply honored to be nominated for the prestigious Prix Galien award. This recognition underscores the value and impact of our investment focus. To be acknowledged alongside such distinguished companies in the industry is both humbling and inspiring," said Daniella Kranjac, Founding GP, AVANT BIO. "We are also thrilled that our most recent investment, Intrepid Labs, has been nominated in the extremely competitive start-up category. Their use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is transforming drug formulation development through effective formulations that improve clinical performance."

About AVANT BIO

AVANT BIO is a growth equity firm focused on the enabling technologies shaping how tomorrow's therapeutics are discovered, developed, and manufactured with an investment focus that accelerates new growth and innovation at various stages of company development. With a commitment to amplifying value and a forward-looking investment strategy, AVANT BIO is primed to unlock the full potential of therapeutic enabling technologies, TechBio, and Healthtech.

For further information, including opportunities to partner, visit www.avant.bio. Follow AVANT BIO on LinkedIn for the latest news and industry insights.

SOURCE AVANT BIO LLC
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Berger Montague, a leading national plaintiffs' law firm long known for representing clients who have been harmed by environmental disasters, together with Fishman Haygood LLP, have announced that they have opened an investigation of Monday's tragic explosion at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works plant located in Clairton, Pennsylvania, about fifteen miles southeast of downtown Pittsburgh. The explosion left two employees of the plant deceased and injured at least ten others. The explosion may have also caused the dispersion of harmful chemicals and particulate matter into the surrounding atmosphere, forcing nearby residents to remain indoors for their own safety. The plant employs around 1,300 workers.

It was reported that environmental groups and nearby residents have previously complained about deficient maintenance at the plant, including a past fire and power outages, with U.S. Steel agreeing to pay more towards environmental projects resulting from those incidents. The blast ignited shortly before 11:00 a.m. between two coke oven batteries at the Clairton Coke Works plant, which is owned by U.S. Steel. The plant annually produces millions of tons of commercial coke, a type of fuel used in steel production, and is considered the largest coking operation in North America. U.S. Steel, whose acquisition by Nippon Steel closed in June 2025, has acknowledged that the incident involved two batteries and that both have since been shut down, but the cause of the explosion currently remains unknown.

Berger Montague and Fishman Haygood attorneys are investigating the incident and those that may be responsible, as well as the extent of the potential harm to those impacted and the surrounding community. Coke dust and particulate matter in the air can have negative health impacts when inhaled, and can also settle and contaminate properties, water, and environmental resources. Berger Montague and Fishman Haygood encourage anyone with serious or minor injuries, and anyone with information related to the incident, to contact the legal team by calling 1-800-424-6690, or by emailing [email protected]. Additional information concerning the investigation can be found here.

Berger Montague is one of the nation's preeminent law firms focusing on complex civil litigation, class actions, and mass torts in federal and state courts throughout the United States. The firm is a leader in the fields of antitrust, consumer protection, defective products, environmental law, employment law, securities, and whistleblower cases, among many other practice areas. For over 55 years, Berger Montague has played leading roles in precedent-setting cases and has recovered over $50 billion for its clients and the classes they have represented. Berger Montague is headquartered in Philadelphia and has offices in Chicago; Malvern, PA; Minneapolis; San Diego; San Francisco; Toronto, Canada; Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, DE.

For more information, contact:



Amy Wall-Monte, Marketing Director

Telephone: (215) 875-3021

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Berger Montague
New York cultural figure brings record of innovation and institutional revitalization as Shaker Museum embarks on $30M expansion designed by Selldorf Architects

CHATHAM, N.Y., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Shaker Museum, home to the world's most significant collection of Shaker material culture, has named Claudia Gould, renowned for her transformative tenure at the Jewish Museum, as its next Executive Director. Gould's appointment arrives as the museum commences the boldest evolution in its history: construction of a new flagship space by Selldorf Architects in downtown Chatham. Within the new space, there will be a renewed push to connect the Shaker legacy of design, egalitarianism, and community to today's audiences.

Claudia Gould. Photo by Camilla Johannesen.

Gould steps into the top post in the museum's milestone 75th year, at a moment when the American arts landscape is increasingly attentive to a dialogue between past and present. Known nationally for curatorial risk-taking and visionary leadership, Gould will oversee the museum's growthincluding strategic planning, fundraising, and public engagementat a time when institutions are reimagining their roles and relevance.

"Shaker Museum occupies a unique role in the global cultural landscape. Its permanent collection of Shaker material continues to inspire and invite collaboration with artists and designers making work today; and its values of simplicity, equality, cooperation, and mindful industry feel urgently contemporary," Gould said. "I'm honored to join an institution poised to share the Shaker ethos in a facility that will both honor and expand their legacy. I look forward to working with the board and community to ensure the collection's relevance and resonance now and for the future."

As Director of the Jewish Museum from 2011 to 2023, Gould oversaw an ambitious renovation, grew its endowment, and brought a dynamic, cross-disciplinary program to one of New York's most storied cultural institutions. By bringing a contemporary lens to the whole institution, Gould revitalized the museum in effect moving the needle without moving the mission. Previous roles include transformative posts at the Institute of Contemporary Art at the University of Pennsylvania (ICA Philadelphia) and Artists Space, further cementing Gould's reputation as a leading voice in museum innovation, inclusion, and scholarship.

"Claudia's leadership arrives at a pivotal momentnot just for Shaker Museum, but for upstate New York's cultural landscape," said Paul Cassidy, Board Chair. "Her track record in deepening engagement, amplifying under-told stories, and stewarding institutional growth will be invaluable as we open a new era for the museum and Chatham as a cultural destination."

Over the past 36 months, during the design review phase for its new facility, Shaker Museum has continued to present meaningful work and create experiences both locally and internationally. The museum has presented a series of pop-up exhibitions curated by talents including Katie Stout, Emily Adams Bode, and hettler.tullmann, all members of the museum's Makers' Circle of contemporary creators. In the fall of 2024, "CRADLED," an exhibition curated by Academy Award-winning actress and producer Frances McDormand and conceptual artist Suzanne Bocanegra for Shaker Museum, opened at the Kinderhook Knitting Mill. The exhibition explored the core Shaker values of compassion, caretaking, and community, particularly through the use of adult-sized cradles which were built by Shakers to provide nurturing care and respect at the end of life. Additionally, "The Shakers: A World in the Making," a traveling exhibition featuring significant pieces from Shaker Museum's collection, was unveiled at the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany in June 2025. Next year, this exhibition will travel to ICA Philadelphia and the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Shaker Museum's 30,000-square-foot expansion is being designed by Selldorf Architects, recognized for their work at the Frick Collection, LUMA Arles, and the National Gallery (London). Designed to anchor downtown Chatham while echoing the Shakers' ideals, the new museum will showcase highlights from the 18,000-object permanent collection, offer public spaces for education and engagement, and serve as a hub for dialogue about design, social history, and contemporary culture.

The $30 million project includes generous grants from Empire State Development (ESD) and the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) and will position Shaker Museum as a standout in New York State's cultural landscape.

About Shaker Museum

With more than 18,000 objects, Shaker Museum stewards the most comprehensive collection of Shaker material culture and archives. Founded in 1950, the museum celebrates its 75th anniversary and several milestones this year. In April, it broke ground on its new permanent home in Chatham, NY, designed by Selldorf Architects. In May, it began relocating its library and administrative offices to 29 Jones Avenue in Chatham. In June, "The Shakers: A World in the Making," a collaborative exhibition featuring 150 pieces from Shaker Museum's collection, opened at the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany. And in August, the museum welcomed Claudia Gould as its new Executive Director. In addition to Chatham, current museum locations include collections storage in Old Chatham, NY, pop-up exhibition space in Kinderhook, NY, and the historic Mount Lebanon Shaker Village site in New Lebanon, NY. View the museum's collection online anytime at shakermuseum.us.

A photo of Claudia Gould may be downloaded here.

Photo Credit: Photo by Camilla Johannesen

Media Contact:

Susan Ainsworth

Ainsworth Associates

Phone: 917 861 7949

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Shaker Museum
Judges note that 'Constructor offers a masterclass in ecommerce enablement through intelligent search and discovery, pushing the boundaries of AI'

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Constructor , the leading AI-powered search and product discovery platform for enterprise ecommerce companies, has earned three Stevie Awards in the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence, dominating the ecommerce category. For the second year in a row , Constructor won gold  the highest honor  for:

Ecommerce Company of the Year (for Constructor)

Ecommerce Executive of the Year (for Eli Finkelshteyn , Constructor co-founder and CEO)

, Constructor co-founder and CEO) Ecommerce New Product of the Year (for Constructor's Retail Media Suite )

The Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence recognize the remarkable achievements of individuals, teams and organizations that are shaping the future of technology across all industry sectors.

Over 1,500 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 36 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration. More than 160 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year's honorees.

Take it from the judges

Here's what the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence judges had to say about Constructor across the categories it won:

On Constructor:

"Constructor offers a masterclass in ecommerce enablement through intelligent search and discovery, pushing the boundaries of AI."

"The execution, product-market fit and scale of impact are undeniable."

"Tools like [Constructor's] AI Shopping Agent and Retail Media Suite show a strong grasp of evolving ecommerce pain points and an ability to deploy AI for measurable ROI."

"You can tell this team is building with a sharp understanding of ecommerce needs. Solid 10."

"The quantifiable results for both product performance and business success are outstanding."

On the Retail Media Suite:

"Retail media is booming, and Constructor offers the first comprehensive solution to truly bridge the organic-paid divide in a scalable, data-driven way."

"It is wonderful to see an excellent retail media product that drives overall revenue growth for retailers while improving customer experience."

"This is a thoughtful and high-impact innovation that stands out both for its technical achievement and business value across stakeholders  retailers, advertisers and shoppers alike."

On CEO Eli Finkelshteyn:

His "strong focus on product development and innovation clearly sets a high standard for sustainable and forward-thinking growth."

"His visionary leadership in developing an AI-first, commerce-specific product discovery platform has led to remarkable results."

"Very impressive and pioneering work."

Rolling thunder for Constructor

These recognitions come on the heels of other company milestones and momentum this year:

Constructor was recently named a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Search and Product Discovery 1  and positioned in the accompanying Critical Capabilities report2, Constructor was the only vendor to be ranked first in three out of the five Use Cases*.

In addition, Fast Company ranked Constructor the #10 most innovative company in the world for retail , recognizing the company for "pointing shoppers toward what they need." Constructor also earned gold in another recent Stevie Awards program  honored as " Retail Company of the Year " in the 2025 American Business Awards.

Additionally, Constructor's Retail Media Suite, unveiled earlier this year , is already driving strong results. One furniture and home retailer projects a $1 million lift in ad revenue within the year, while a major consumer packaged goods company estimates a $2.4 million increase  all without cutting into organic sales. Unlike traditional tools that simply drop ads into retail search results and other onsite areas, Constructor intelligently decides whether a paid or organic listing is more valuable in each slot, and personalizes it for each shopper. The result: no more irrelevant ads, and a better experience for shoppers, advertisers and retailers alike. As the first solution to optimize paid and organic placements from a single platform, Constructor helps retailers boost monetization and customer satisfaction.

"We're honored to be recognized for the second year in a row by the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence, and to earn gold in three categories again," said Constructor CEO Eli Finkelshteyn. "These wins speak to our team's focus on building AI that truly understands the complexities of ecommerce  from merchandising and monetization to personalized discovery and retail media. With new advances in LLMs and agentic AI, we're excited to lead the next wave of innovation in ways that are grounded in outcomes, not just hype."

For more information on how Constructor helps retailers increase engagement, loyalty and revenue, please see https://constructor.com/customers .

1 Gartner, Inc., Magic Quadrant for Search and Product Discovery, Mike Lowndes, Noam Dorros, Sandy Shen and Aditya Vasudevan, June 24, 2025.

2 Gartner, Inc., Critical Capabilities for Search and Product Discovery, Aditya Vasudevan, Mike Lowndes, Noam Dorros and Sandy Shen, June 24, 2025.

Disclaimer

*Tied with another vendor for the B2C Search Use Case

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About Constructor

Constructor is the only search and product discovery platform tailor-made for enterprise ecommerce where conversions matter. Constructor's AI-first solutions make it easier for shoppers to discover products they want to buy and for ecommerce teams to deliver personalized experiences in real time that drive impressive results. Optimizing specifically for ecommerce metrics like revenue, conversion rate and profit, Constructor generates consistent $10M+ lifts for some of the biggest brands in ecommerce, such as Sephora, Petco, The Very Group, home24, Grove Collaborative and Fisheries Supply. Constructor is a U.S.-based company that was founded in 2015 by Eli Finkelshteyn and Dan McCormick. For more, visit: constructor.com

SOURCE Constructor
CTA Construction Managers continues to make progress on Fort River Elementary School and the school is expected to be completed on schedule.

AMHERST, Mass., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CTA Construction Managers recently joined town officials, school representatives, and project partners to celebrate the topping off of the new Fort River Elementary School, marking a major milestone in the construction of this next-generation educational facility in Amherst, Massachusetts.

CTA Construction Managers Celebrates Topping Off of Fort River Elementary School in Amherst, MA

The new school was designed by Boston- based architect firm DiNisco Design. "The event commemorated the placement of the final steel beam on the 105,750 square-foot, three-story school, a significant step forward in creating a sustainable and innovative learning environment for the Amherst community," said Donna DiNisco, Principal, DiNisco Design. "This project reflects the town's strong commitment to sustainability, equity, and educational excellence," she continued.

Slated to serve students from grades K5, Fort River Elementary School is a Net Zero Energy facility. The building features building-mounted and canopy-mounted photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, along with a ground-source heat pump HVAC system powered by 85 geothermal wells, positioning it at the forefront of green school design in the Commonwealth.

"We are proud to be part of this important project that not only invests in the future of education, but also represents a strong commitment to environmental stewardship," said a Jeff Hazelwood from CTA Construction Managers. "It's especially rewarding to continue our long-standing collaboration with DiNisco Design on our 9th school together."

This project represents another successful partnership between CTA Construction and DiNisco Design, led by Donna DiNisco, with a shared portfolio of impactful educational facilities, including Brookside Elementary School, Howe-Manning Elementary School, Lexington Children's Place, Hurld-Wyman Elementary School, Douglas Middle School, Countryside Elementary School, Douglas Elementary School, and Amesbury Elementary School.

The Fort River Elementary School is expected to be completed on schedule, delivering a state-of-the-art educational facility that meets the needs of the community today and for decades to come.

About CTA Construction Managers LLC

CTA Construction Managers is an award-winning construction management and general contracting firm specializing in municipal, academic, multi-family residential, commercial, and senior care facilities. Based in Waltham, Massachusetts, CTA Construction's portfolio of projects total over $2.0 billion. Founded in 2000, CTA has awarded over $150,000,000 in contracts to certified small, veteran, disadvantaged, minority, and women owned partners. CTA is a leader in green building, helping numerous clients build sustainably and meet LEED and MA-CHPS standards. For more information, please visit: https://ctaconstruction.com/

Press Contact:

CTA Construction Managers

781-786-6600

https://ctaconstruction.com/

SOURCE CTA Construction Managers LLC
Bringing Clarity and Confidence to Ultrasound-Guided Interventional Procedures

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DeepSight Technology, a medical imaging pioneer, announced that it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance for its NeedleVue LC1 Ultrasound System.

NeedleVue LC1 Ultrasound System

This clearance marks an important step forward in DeepSight's development of its NeedleVue and OnPoint technologies that will work in tandem with the NeedleVue LC1 Ultrasound System to transform image-guided procedures. "This is a foundational milestone in our mission to deliver crystal clear, sub millimeter level guidance inside the body," said Nader Sadrzadeh CEO of DeepSight. "We have developed the next generation sensor technology for enhancing ultrasound where it what matters mostclear visualization, procedural efficiency, and user confidence. We're just getting started and look forward to building on this achievement as we expand our clinical and commercial momentum in the months ahead."

To learn more about the NeedleVue LC1 Ultrasound System and DeepSight's mission to advance procedural ultrasound, visit www.deepsight.com.

Visit DeepSight at the upcoming LSI'25 Europe meeting in London September 7th  11th and Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) conference in Barcelona, September 1317, to experience NeedleVue technology firsthand.

About DeepSight Technology

DeepSight Technology, founded in 2019 by Nader Sadrzadeh, Lan Yang, and Anand Chandrasekher, is built on a bold vision  to revolutionize medical imaging through proprietary sensing technology. With offices in the San Francisco Bay Area and Clayton, Missouri, DeepSight aims to extend the capabilities of ultrasound across diagnostic, therapeutic, surgical, and interventional applications advancing patient care and improving public health worldwide. Our next-generation sensor technology will transform ultrasound, with the goal to deliver exceptional clarity, pinpoint precision, and unparalleled confidence for clinicians in every procedure.

SOURCE DeepSight Technology, Inc.
General Motors (GM) is reportedly reviving its efforts to develop autonomous vehicles (AVs) with a focus on personal-use cars, as reported by Bloomberg, citing familiar sources.

The initiative was unveiled by Sterling Anderson, a recent addition to GM's team and former Tesla autopilot chief, in an employee meeting held on 6 August.

According to sources familiar with the matter, GM initially aims to develop hands-free, eyes-free driving technology with a human in the vehicle, with the ultimate objective of creating a fully driverless car.

Anderson noted that the company is actively seeking to rehire some former Cruise employees and plans to expand its talent pool for the project, with recruitment efforts targeting its Mountain View, California, US office, among other locations.

GM has confirmed to the news agency that it is currently operating human-driven vehicles on public roads to collect data for the development of self-driving technology.

This move indicates CEO Mary Barra's commitment to the competitive driverless vehicle market, despite the company's exit from the robotaxi business.

The decision to shut down Cruise came after an incident that caused serious injury to a pedestrian, leading to regulatory scrutiny and the departure of several executives, including former CEO Kyle Vogt.

GM had previously planned to introduce a personally owned autonomous vehicle by the middle of the decade, but the timeline has since been removed from public view. The development of this vehicle is ongoing, alongside improvements to GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system.

Despite recent layoffs at Cruise and within GM's software division, Barra has reaffirmed the company's dedication to driverless vehicle technology.

She highlighted autonomous technology as one of GM's "clear priorities" during the companys second-quarter earnings call.

Anderson has been entrusted with the oversight of product development at GM. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles to electric models, as well as driver assist and autonomous technologies.

"GM revives driverless car development for personal use AVs  report" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




Vocap leads new investment; joined by founders of Allbirds, Harry's, and Warby Parker via Good Friends VC, and existing investors Bling Capital, Vinyl VC, Las Olas and Jefferies Family Office

BOSTON, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Drivepoint, the AI-powered strategic finance platform for consumer brands, announced today that it has secured over $9 million in new funding to accelerate product innovation and go-to-market expansion. The total includes a fresh $7 million Series A round led by Vocap Partners along with a previously undisclosed investment raised earlier in 2024. Returning investors Bling Capital, Vinyl VC, and Las Olas Venture Capital and Jefferies' Family Office also participated.

"Drivepoint is rapidly emerging as the default solution for intelligent finance in retail," said Emery Waddell, Partner at Vocap. "The most forward-thinking retail brands are already running their finance operations on Drivepoint. Given the company's track record of innovation, deep consumer brand expertise, and proven ROI for customers, it's only a matter of time before the rest of the industry - including enterprise players - follows suit."

Additional new capital comes from some of the most influential names in consumer and financial software. Good Friends VC, the venture firm founded by the creators of Allbirds, Harry's, and Warby Parker, joined the round, with Allbirds co-founder Joey Zwillinger personally leading the investment.

Their backing brings unmatched credibility in consumer brand building and product-driven operating discipline, and adds to the list of notable consumer founders who have already invested, including Brian Tate, Founder & CEO of Oats Overnight, Jordan Nathan, Founder of Caraway, and Brian Riley, Founder & CEO of Guardian Bikes.

Already fueling smarter financial decisions for breakout brands including Curology, True Classic, and Simple Modern, Drivepoint has rapidly emerged as the leader in strategic finance for consumer brands. The platform combines spreadsheet-native flexibility with deep retail integrations and AI-native forecasting tools, giving finance teams the power to model, plan, and make decisions in real time.

Graza, the popular olive oil company, credits Drivepoint with dialing in automated modeling and forecasting, helping the company achieve record growth across multiple channels with a 1-person finance team. Oats Overnight used Drivepoint's scenario planning capabilities to unlock an additional $4m in EBITDA. And Dose, a leading supplement brand, was able to improve gross margin by 3-5% using Drivepoint to drive forecast confidence and consistency.

"Drivepoint is one of those rare companies that creates an obvious desire to invest," said Joey Zwillinger, Partner at Good Friends and Co-Founder of Allbirds. "I've experienced the problem firsthand as an operator and seen it through the lens of an investor in consumer brands. Drivepoint's blend of AI and human insights gives operators an unrivaled financial understanding, driving efficiency in both inventory and marketing spend. The value this creates showed up in the customer reference checks we did - some of the best I've heard as an investor."

The company will use the new funding to double down on AI product development in forecasting, variance analysis, and decision intelligence, and to scale its go-to-market efforts as demand from mid-market and enterprise brands accelerates.

"This milestone validates our vision and the results we've been able to deliver for our incredible customers," said Austin Gardner-Smith, Drivepoint CEO and Co-Founder. "On average, Drivepoint customers see 6.7% gains in EBITDA in their first year on the platform, which can unlock massive enterprise value for a retail brand. This capital will let us scale those outcomes and help even more brands grow with clarity and confidence."

About Drivepoint

Drivepoint is an intelligent finance platform built for consumer and retail brands. From high-growth startups to category leaders, Drivepoint helps finance teams unify their data, model their business, and drive better decisionswithout rebuilding their workflows. Brands using Drivepoint report faster planning cycles, smarter investments, and significant gains in profitability and valuation. https://www.drivepoint.io/

About Vocap Partners

Vocap is a growth equity firm focused on B2B software companies. With deep operating and investing experience in vertical SaaS and AI, Vocap takes an active approach to helping founders build enduring, capital-efficient companies.

Media Contact:

Kate Burke

646-456-2889

[email protected]

SOURCE Drivepoint
BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from China.org.cn:

In recent decades, China has made notable progress in enhancing foreign-related rule of law, contributing to the country's high-quality development and high-level opening up. In this special edition of interview with China.org.cn, we spoke with Huang Huikang, a member of the UN International Law Commission, distinguished professor of Wuhan University, and former Chinese ambassador to Malaysia, to uncover the evolution, impacts and prospects of China's foreign-related rule of law.

In this special edition of interview, we speak with Huang Huikang, an eminent figure in international law, to uncover the impacts and prospects of China's foreign-related rule of law as the country seeks high-quality development and high-level opening up in the new era.

SOURCE China.org.cn
What is the Market Size of Axial Flux Motor Market?

BANGALORE, India, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global market for Axial Flux Motor was valued at USD 272 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 16379 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 66.7% during the forecast period.

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What Are the Key Factors Driving the Growth of the Axial Flux Motor Market?

The axial flux motor market is witnessing robust growth due to rising demand for high-performance, compact, and energy-efficient electric motors .





is witnessing due to rising demand for . Axial flux motors are revolutionizing electric mobility, industrial equipment, and renewable energy systems with unmatched torque density and significant space savings .





with and significant . Leading manufacturers and startups are heavily investing in product innovation , leveraging advanced materials and modern production techniques to improve scalability and cost-efficiency .





are heavily investing in , leveraging and to improve . The push towards electrification, sustainability, and digital transformation is driving the adoption of axial flux motors in next-generation applications .





is driving the adoption of in . Strategic collaborations, increased R&D efforts, and supportive regulations are further boosting market expansion .





are further boosting . Axial flux motors are positioned as a transformative technology in the evolving electric motor landscape, enabling more efficient, compact, and sustainable solutions.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE AXIAL FLUX MOTOR MARKET:

The dual-rotor single-stator type is a major driver in the axial flux motor market due to its superior torque density and power-to-weight ratio. These motors feature a compact axial configuration with two rotors flanking a central stator, effectively doubling the torque output without significantly increasing the size. This design minimizes magnetic flux leakage and optimizes magnetic utilization, making it ideal for applications with space and efficiency constraints. Electric vehicles, drones, and industrial machinery benefit from this configuration due to its improved cooling, lighter construction, and high power delivery. As demand for compact and efficient electric propulsion systems grows, dual-rotor single-stator motors are increasingly preferred in both mobility and stationary applications, fueling market growth across diverse sectors.

Single-rotor dual-stator type axial flux motors are gaining momentum in the market due to their symmetrical magnetic flux distribution and structural simplicity. This configuration places a rotor between two stators, offering high power output and improved thermal dissipation. The dual stators provide magnetic balance, enhancing efficiency and torque consistency, especially under varying load conditions. This type is widely adopted in e-mobility, industrial drives, and robotics where reliability and compactness are key. Manufacturers are focusing on this design to optimize material usage and reduce electromagnetic losses. The reduced axial length and enhanced performance make it suitable for next-generation EV drivetrains and energy-efficient industrial motors, driving demand for this configuration in advanced electromechanical systems globally.

The automotive sector is a primary catalyst for the axial flux motor market, driven by the electrification of mobility and the demand for lighter, more efficient propulsion systems. Axial flux motors offer high torque density, compact size, and reduced weight, making them ideal for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid systems, and even e-bikes. Their flat design allows for flexible integration into vehicle architectures, such as in-wheel motors or space-constrained drivetrain layouts. Major EV manufacturers are adopting axial flux technology to improve vehicle range and performance. Additionally, growing regulatory pressure to cut emissions and increase fuel efficiency accelerates the shift toward electric powertrains. As global EV sales continue to rise, the adoption of axial flux motors is expanding rapidly.

High torque density is a crucial factor driving demand for axial flux motors, especially in sectors requiring powerful yet compact systems. Unlike radial flux motors, axial flux designs allow more magnetic material to interact per unit volume, resulting in greater torque output in a smaller footprint. This characteristic is valuable in electric vehicles, drones, and marine propulsion where space optimization is essential. Manufacturers are focused on leveraging this advantage to develop high-efficiency systems with minimal energy loss and optimal torque delivery. As applications evolve to prioritize performance and compactness, axial flux motors stand out for their ability to meet these requirements, thereby increasing their adoption across emerging and established industries.

The global shift toward e-mobility, including electric two-wheelers, e-scooters, delivery drones, and electric aircraft, is propelling the axial flux motor market forward. These solutions demand lightweight, energy-efficient, and high-torque motors to maximize battery life and extend range. Axial flux motors meet these needs with their flat design, high torque-to-weight ratio, and low electromagnetic interference. Startups and OEMs in the mobility space are investing in axial flux technology to differentiate their products and meet strict environmental regulations. With urban transportation evolving rapidly, the need for compact motors that deliver strong propulsion performance continues to grow, reinforcing axial flux motors as a preferred choice in the mobility landscape.

Energy efficiency remains a key motivator for the adoption of axial flux motors across various sectors. These motors offer higher efficiency than traditional radial flux designs due to reduced winding resistance, shorter magnetic paths, and superior thermal management. As industries and governments aim to lower energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions, the efficiency of electric motors becomes a priority. Axial flux motors contribute to these goals by enabling lighter systems with lower energy demands. Their ability to operate at higher efficiency over a wide range of speeds makes them ideal for applications in industrial automation, HVAC systems, and renewable energy. This energy-saving advantage drives market demand globally.

Industrial automation is creating significant opportunities for the axial flux motor market. These motors are being integrated into robotic arms, conveyor systems, CNC machinery, and other equipment that require compact, precise, and high-torque actuation. Axial flux motors enable faster response times, smoother motion control, and more efficient energy use compared to traditional motors. Their slim profile allows for flexible installation, which is especially valuable in space-constrained industrial environments. As industries invest in smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies, the need for high-performance, intelligent motor systems rises. Axial flux motors fulfill these evolving demands, positioning themselves as a key component in the future of digital and automated industrial workflows.

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What are the major product types in the Axial Flux Motor Market?

Dual-rotor Single-stator Type

Single-rotor Dual-stator Type

What are the main applications of Axial Flux Motor Market ?

Electric Buses

Electric Trucks

Electric Supercars

Other

Who are the key players in the Axial Flux Motor Market ?

YASA Limited

Magnax

EMRAX

Phi-Power

PanGood

Omni Powertrain Technologies

Naxatra Labs

Turntide Technologies

EFLOW

Beyond Motors

Evolito

Which region dominates the Axial Flux Motor Market?

Europe leads the axial flux motor market, driven by high electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy initiatives, and industrial automation.





leads the axial flux motor market, driven by high electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy initiatives, and industrial automation. Key European countries, including Germany , France , and the UK, are investing heavily in high-efficiency motor technologies.





, , and the UK, are investing heavily in high-efficiency motor technologies. North America is a close contender, with the U.S. focusing on e-mobility, aerospace electrification, and R&D in advanced manufacturing.





is a close contender, with the U.S. focusing on e-mobility, aerospace electrification, and R&D in advanced manufacturing. The Asia-Pacific regionnotably China , Japan , and South Koreais experiencing rapid market growth due to expanding EV production, smart manufacturing, and government-backed green energy programs.





regionnotably , , and South Koreais experiencing rapid market growth due to expanding EV production, smart manufacturing, and government-backed green energy programs. Latin America and the Middle East are emerging regions adopting axial flux motors for energy and industrial applications.





and the are emerging regions adopting axial flux motors for energy and industrial applications. Regional market dynamics are shaped by technology maturity, regulatory support, and manufacturing capabilities, influencing adoption and growth trends.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Africa's telecom leaders have called on governments and regulators to adopt and nationalise a Model Framework for Building Internet Resilience in Africa, endorsed at a virtual forum convened by the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), the Internet Society (ISOC) and the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC).

The model framework structures Africa's Internet-resilience challenge around three inter-dependent focus areas: Networks and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), critical infrastructure such as power grids and cables, and market conditions that influence affordability and demand.

Implementation of the framework would mean any entity or operator responsible for a vital part of a country's Internet ecosystem, such as an electricity utility, a mobile network operator, an Internet service provider, an Internet Exchange Point, or a country-code top-level domain registry, will have to prepare a Plan for Resilience within one year, from the date the framework is officially adopted in the country.

The plan must then be reviewed and updated annually and be consistent with the entity or operator's Continuity and Reconstitution Plans. It should set out how the organisation will incorporate the resilience qualities of redundancy, resourcefulness, and rapid recoverykey elements in achieving overall robustnessinto its operations.

ATU Secretary-General John Omo, AFRINIC's Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Mr. Arthur Carindal and ISOC's Director of Internet Development, Mr. Kevin G. Chege drummed support for the Framework's adoption, warning that the continent remains one cable-cut or nationwide blackout away from another digital standstill.

West Africa's four-cable snap in March 2024 knocked out or throttled connectivity in 13 countries for days. Two months later, submarine fiber optic cable systems EASSy and SEACOM were sliced off the KwaZulu-Natal coast, and East African traffic limped along for three weeks until repairs finished in early June 2024. December's six-hour nationwide power failure in Kenya caused substantial reduction in Internet access across the country, even as South Africa endured 300 days of load-shedding in 2023.

ATU's John Omo cautioned that every blackout is a flashing red warning. "Connectivity remains Africa's nervous system and when it stutters, schools, hospitals and markets stutter too. This framework is our insurance policy against digital darkness," he said.

AFRINIC's Mr. Arthur Carindal said, "It is a great honour for AFRINIC to collaborate with ATU and ISOC in transformative initiative enabling all stakeholders to participate in developing Africa's Internet resilience model framework, which highlights key policy recommendations and best practices for strengthening Internet infrastructure in Africa."

The Internet Society's contributions to the framework build on years of data-driven engagement with African Internet performance. A central tool in this effort has been the Internet Society Pulse platform, which curates and shares real-time data on Internet availability, resilience, security, and adoption.

Mr. Chege described the current milestone as a critical phase in that effort. "Investing in collecting various metrics to assess how resilient the Internet is across different countries, is the first step to achieving Internet Resilience, which is why the Internet Society Pulse is a key supporting part of this Framework." Once adopted, he added, "the model framework will help decision-makers in strengthening infrastructure and policy for more reliable Internet connectivity across Africa."

The framework will be made available to member state administrations of ATU and thereafter published for visibility to all stakeholders. "I urge member states to adopt this Framework and to be actively involved in its implementation," concluded Secretary General Omo.

About Internet Society

Founded in 1992 by Internet pioneers, the Internet Society is a global charitable organization working to ensure that the Internet is for everyone. Through its community of members, special interest groups, and 130+ chapters around the world, the organization defends and promotes Internet policies and technologies that keep the Internet open, globally connected, and secure. More information at: www.internetsociety.org

About the African Telecommunications Union (ATU)

An Intergovernmental Organization (IGO), ATU is the specialised organ of the African Union in the field of Telecommunications/ICTs, and also the International Telecommunications Union's regional telecommunications organization (RTO) for Africa. The Union represents 52 African countries forming its Member States, and 52 Associate Members comprised of ICT operators in the region. It is an autonomous, membership driven organization whose mission is to promote digital transformation in Africa and ensure the continent is an equal player in global digital matters. More on the website https://atuuat.africa/

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749415/Internet_Society_Foundation_Logo.jpg
Founder-built, female-founded company has over 50% revenue growth and multi-channel expansion

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tiny Tags, the celebrity-loved personalized jewelry brand, has earned a coveted spot on the Inc. 5000 list for the third time in four years, ranking #2579 among America's fastest-growing private companies. The female-founded, self-funded multi-million-dollar company achieved over 50% revenue growth from 2023 to 2024 while cementing its position as a leader in the personalized jewelry market for mothers, and maintaining complete independence from outside investors.

"The jewelry industry celebrates engagements and weddings, but nothing truly marks becoming a mother. We're one of the only brands committed to celebrating the gift of a child, and telling her story through jewelry. Tiny Tags is the engagement ring of motherhood."

Record Growth Across Multiple Channels

The milestone reflects Tiny Tags' strategic expansion across both direct-to-consumer and retail channels while never losing sight of its core mission to celebrate the gift of a child and the journey of motherhood. The brand has successfully diversified its revenue streams, with a bespoke collection now available in over 1,675 Target locations nationwide  bringing Tiny Tags' brand message of love and gratitude to mothers across America. Building on its Target success, Tiny Tags plans to introduce curated collections with additional retail partners as the company charts its growth trajectory for the next five years.

Tiny Tags has evolved from a startup into a multi-million-dollar business beloved by celebrities and everyday mothers alike. Each piece of fine jewelry  crafted in 14k gold, sterling silver, or gold vermeil  undergoes meticulous laser engraving by more than 14 skilled artisans. Tiny Tags' bestselling mini dog tag necklace has become every mom's must-have, with their child's name engraved on the front, and birthday on the back.

About Tiny Tags

Founded in 2010 by Melissa Clayton, a CPA UMass Amherst graduate, with an MBA from Northeastern University. Based in Rhode Island, the company's precision laser engraving technology sets it apart. Clayton, a passionate entrepreneur and mother to three boys living outside Boston, has appeared on Shark Tank and the Today Show. Her husband Mike Clayton, a Duke University graduate, joined the company as CFO. Melissa is an active female founder through her involvement with the Female Founder Collective, The North, Women in Retail, and is a member of MJSA.

Media Contact:

Ali Davenport

[email protected]

SOURCE Tiny Tags
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Robbins LLP reminds stockholders that a class action was filed on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) securities between January 23, 2024 and July 21, 2025. Lockheed Martin is an aerospace defense company.

For more information, submit a form, email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003.

The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) Misled Investors Regarding its Business Prospects

According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose: (i) that Lockheed Martin lacked efficient internal controls regarding its purportedly risk adjusted contracts including the reporting of its risk adjusted profit booking rate; (2) that Lockheed Martin lacked effective procedures to perform reasonably accurate comprehensive reviews of program requirements, technical complexities, schedule, and risks; (3) that Lockheed Martin overstated its ability to deliver on its contract commitments in terms of cost, quality and schedule; and (4) that, as a result, the Company was reasonably likely to report significant losses.

The complaint alleges that on July 22, 2025, Lockheed Martin, after previously announcing losses on October 24, 2024 and January 28, 2025, disclosed it had recorded an additional $1.6 billion in pre-tax losses on classified programs, including $950 million in losses related to its Aeronautics Classified program. The Company also recorded $570 million in losses on its Canadian Maritime Helicopter Program and a $95 million charge related to its Turkish Utility Helicopter Program. On this news, the Company's share price fell $49.79, or over 10%, to close at $410.74 on July 22, 2025.

What Now: You may be eligible to participate in the class action against Lockheed Martin Corporation. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their papers with the court by September 26, 2025. The lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here .

All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses.

About Robbins LLP: A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002.

To be notified if a class action against Lockheed Martin Corporation settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today.

Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

SOURCE Robbins LLP
PRAGUE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum computers are significantly reshaping the rules of digital security. As per takeaways from the latest Gartner Hype Cycle for Digital Identity, 2025, the authentication technologies currently used for accessing banking systems are nearing the end of their life cycle. As a result, Gartner in its report focuses on post-quantum authentication  a new method of identity verification based on post-quantum cryptography. Wultra is thought to have played a key role in shaping this challenge, and also contributed to the creation of this standalone category.

"Post-quantum security is shifting from a fringe debate to the center of strategic decision-making. Institutions that want to be prepared cannot wait for the first real attack," says Petr Dvorak, CEO of Wultra.

Gartner warns: "By 2029, advances in quantum computing will weaken and break the standard asymmetric cryptography on which many identity verification methods rely, this will significantly reduce the credence that these methods can provide, increasing enterprises' exposure to ATO risks. Thus, migration to postquantum authentication is a critical task."

In this context, Wultra is recognized as a Sample Vendor in the postquantum authentication category. The company has long specialized in developing next-generation authentication solutions and is among the first to systematically introduce the topic of post-quantum security for the financial sector. In doing so, Wultra has made a significant contribution to defining the challenge itself and played a key role in establishing post-quantum authentication as a standalone category.

"We believe authentication must evolve faster than the threats themselves. Our technology is ready to help banks and fintechs transition into the post-quantum era, without any changes to the customer interface or the security architecture," Dvorak explains.

Wultra currently secures login systems for more than seventy institutions across twenty-five countries. Its clients include, for example, Erste Group, Global Payments, or the Czech National Bank. Implementation of the solution typically takes eight weeks and does not require major changes to the user interface or the customer experience.

In the coming years, post-quantum authentication will become the standard for every financial institution aiming to protect its digital assets and comply with upcoming cybersecurity regulations. Especially in markets such as Southeast Asia and Western Europe, where the pressure to modernize digital services is growing. The Gartner report shares that it has a high benefit rating and emerging maturity,

For more information on post-quantum authentication, visit Wultra's website here.

Disclaimer

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and is used herein with permission. HYPE CYCLE is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About Wultra

Wultra provides banks and fintech companies with a seamless post-quantum authentication solution that strengthens security while enabling a smooth transition to new standards. Powered by quantum-resistant cryptography, the platform delivers top-tier protection, a developer-friendly interface, and a passwordless user experience  all fully aligned with global regulations. Financial institutions in over 25 countries around the world trust Wultra's solution. The system meets the strict requirements of upcoming directives such as PSD3/PSR1 and eIDAS 2.0, while offering superior protection against emerging types of cyber threats.

For more information, visit www.wultra.com.

Media Contact (Wultra):

Nikola Sojkova

PR Manager

+420 605 474 554

[email protected]

SOURCE Wultra
MIAMI, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- From self-driving cars to power grid management, artificial intelligence systems are becoming increasingly embedded in everyday life. But a growing threat looms: data poisoning attacks that can sabotage these systems.

Data poisoning occurs when cyber attackers insert false or misleading information into the massive datasets used to train AI models, skewing their behavior in dangerous ways. Beyond causing a chatbot to produce gibberish, poisoned models could have real-world consequences, such as making an autonomous vehicle ignore stop signs or disrupting critical infrastructure systems.

FIU cybersecurity researchers have introduced an innovative solution that combines two emerging technologies  federated learning and blockchain  to detect and remove malicious data before it compromises AI models. The study was published in IEEE Transactions on Artificial Intelligence.

"We've built a method that can have many applications for critical infrastructure resilience, transportation cybersecurity, healthcare and more," said Hadi Amini, lead researcher and assistant professor in the FIU Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences.

The first part of the team's new approach involves federated learning, which allows AI models to train across multiple devices without centralizing sensitive data, reducing privacy risks. However, it remains vulnerable to poisoned updates.

"Verifying whether a user's data is honest or dishonest before it gets to the model is a challenge for federated learning," said Ervin Moore, a Ph.D. candidate in Amini's lab and lead author of the study.

Enter blockchain technology. Widely known for securing cryptocurrency, blockchain adds a tamper-proof layer of verification. FIU's solution uses blockchain to compare block updates, flag outliers and discard potential threats before they reach the global model.

The research team is advancing this work with partners at the National Center for Transportation Cybersecurity and Resiliency to integrate quantum encryption for even stronger protection of data and systems.

"Our goal is to ensure the safety and security of America's transportation infrastructure while harnessing the power of advanced AI to enhance transportation systems," said Amini.

The project has received support from the ADMIRE Center and the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Center for Transportation Cybersecurity and Resiliency.

To read more, please click here.

About FIU:

Florida International University is a Top 50, preeminent public research university with 55,000 students from all 50 states and more than 140 countries, as well as an alumni network of more than 340,000. Located in the global city of Miami, the university offers more than 200 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels, including medicine and law. FIU faculty are leaders in their fields and include National Academy members, Fulbright Scholars, and MacArthur Genius Fellows. A Carnegie R1 institution, FIU drives impactful research in environmental resilience, health, and technology and innovation. Home to the Wall of Wind and Institute of Environment, FIU stands at the forefront of discovery and innovation. With a focus on student success, economic mobility and community engagement, FIU is redefining what it means to be a public research university.

Media Contact:

Jonathan Ruadez

305-348-8448

[email protected]

news.fiu.edu

@FIUNews

SOURCE Florida International University
Funding to scale PEMF device production, complete FDA submission, continue clinical studies, and launch targeted digital marketing initiatives.

HAYDEN, Idaho, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SentientLight (www.sentientlight.com) has announced a capital development plan beginning with an initial tranche of approximately US$2 million toward a targeted US$10 million raise. Once secured, these funds will support:

Peer-reviewed trial cuts arthritis pain 20%, powering SentientLight's US$10M raise amid non-drug pain shift Post this Sentient Element PEMF therapy device with clinical results from a 12-week pilot study in knee osteoarthritis showing reductions in pain, stiffness, and CRP, and improvement in joint mobility.

U.S.-based manufacturing scale-up

FDA submission process

Additional clinical pilots

R&D for next-generation wearable devices

Continued research into potential applications in insomnia, Lyme disease, and arthritis ( currently investigational and not cleared or approved by the FDA )

) Digital marketing initiatives to drive awareness and sales of the company's devices

The funding push follows publication of a peer-reviewed clinical study showing that SentientLight's pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy device achieved a 20% reduction in pain in knee osteoarthritis patients  aligning with growing regulatory support for non-drug pain solutions.

Timely Context

FDA Approval Signals Shift

In January 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Vertex Pharmaceuticals' non-opioid analgesic Journavx for acute pain  a milestone highlighting growing regulatory support for non-drug pain pathways (FDA press announcement) and (Reuters coverage).

Market Growth Creates Opportunity

Rising rates of arthritis, insomnia, and Lyme disease are contributing to sustained growth in global market demand, creating conditions that could enable therapies such as SentientLight's PEMF technology to become available to patients in the future, if supported by additional clinical evidence and regulatory clearance, the company said.

Peer-Reviewed Clinical Study Results

A 10-patient, open-label pilot study conducted at Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences & Research in Hyderabad, India, and published in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Research (Vol 18-3, DOI 10.22159/ajpcr.2025v18i3.53722), evaluated SentientLight's PEMF device for early-stage knee osteoarthritis.

Key Outcomes after 12 Weeks of One-Hour Sessions:

20% reduction in pain

17% decrease in stiffness

8 improvement in joint mobility

"The improvements we observed in this pilot study are promising, particularly given the non-invasive, non-drug nature of the therapy," said Dr. Abhidya Reddy, Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, who oversaw the trial. "While further studies are needed, the results suggest this approach could offer patients a valuable new option for managing chronic pain."

Device Capabilities & Recognition

Peak output: 150,000 Gauss

150,000 Gauss Frequency sweep: 2 Hz to 10 kHz (at the high end of devices in its category, the company said)

2 Hz to 10 kHz Recognition: Named "Best Frequency Range" among PEMF devices by Medical News Today

Named "Best Frequency Range" among PEMF devices by IP Protection: Patent No. ZL201821461327.9 for its dual-coil PEMF design

Founder's Story

Founder and CEO Larry Langdon developed the device after years of managing chronic pain from Lyme disease.

30-year engineering veteran with past roles at Boeing, Intel, and Microsoft.

Expertise in embedded systems and power electronics.

"After a decade of suffering from Lyme disease and the chronic pain it left behind  and finding little relief through traditional medicine  I set out to create a different kind of solution," Langdon said. "This company was born from my own search for a non-drug approach that could help where other methods had failed me, and our mission is to make this therapy available to people with similar conditions, subject to further clinical validation and regulatory review."

Market Opportunity

The non-drug pain relief market is projected to reach ~US$773 million by 2030. Combined therapeutic and testing markets for arthritis, insomnia, and Lyme disease exceed US$38.7 billion:

Rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics: US$25 billion in 2023, projected US$36.4 billion by 2030

in 2023, projected by 2030 Insomnia therapeutics: US$2.89 billion in 2024, projected US$3.74 billion by 2030

in 2024, projected by 2030 Lyme disease testing: US$10.85 billion in 2023

SentientLight plans to expand into these markets in response to rising demand for non-drug pain relief solutions.

Next Steps

SentientLight invites strategic partners and investors to join in advancing non-drug pain relief options worldwide.

Proceeds will support U.S. manufacturing, FDA submission, and additional clinical pilots.

Placebo-controlled insomnia trial planned for 2026.

For more information:

About SentientLight LLC

Larry Langdon founded SentientLight LLC in 2018. He has 30+ years of experience developing technologies for Boeing, National Semiconductor, Intel, Microsoft, and classified projects requiring special clearance for high-level applications. Utilizing his B.S. in electrical engineering, he has extensive experience in software, hardware, integration, instrumentation, product testing and embedded designs, including the first FDA-approved defibrillator.

Contact:

Larry Langdon, SentientLight, [email protected]

Khartik, SentientLight, [email protected]

+1 208-512-7775

Sources

(Source 1) SentientLight Element  12-week knee-osteoarthritis pilot (https[:]//www.sentientlight.com/Portals/0/Study/Sentient%20Element%20-%20Arthritis%20Study.pdf)

(Source 2) Medical News Today  "5 Best PEMF Therapy Devices" (https[:]//www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pemf-therapy-device)

(Source 3) SentientLight  comparison chart (https[:]//www.sentientlight.com/pemfdevicescomparison)

(Source 4) TechSci Research  Global PEMF devices market forecast (https[:]//www.techsciresearch.com/report/pulse-electromagnetic-field-therapy-devices-market/27447.html)

(Source 5) PRWeb  SentientLight background and Larry Langdon resume (Boeing, Intel, National Semi, Microsoft) (https[:]//www.prweb.com/releases/sentientlight-llc-introduces-the-sentient-element-the-world-s-highest-intensity-and-most-flexible-pemf-device-870440578.html)

(Source 6) Grand View Research  Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market (https[:]//www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/rheumatoid-arthritis-therapeutics-market)

(Source 7) Grand View Research  Insomnia Therapeutics Market (https[:]//www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/insomnia-therapeutics-market)

(Source 8) Grand View Research  Lyme Disease Testing Market (https[:]//www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/lyme-disease-testing-market-report)

Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of SentientLight, including statements relating to the company's funding plans, regulatory submissions, clinical trials, and market opportunities. These statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. SentientLight undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, except as required by law.

SOURCE SentientLight
DICKINSON, N.D., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Steffes today named Mike Winn as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective September 1. Headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, Steffes is a leading U.S. provider of steel fabrication and electrical services for a variety of diverse industries, including oil and gas, contract manufacturing and electric thermal storage. The company operates four total manufacturing facilities, with locations in Dickinson and Grand Forks, North Dakota and Shelby, North Carolina.

"Mike brings deep industry experience, practical wisdom and a genuine, people-focused leadership style that make him the perfect addition to our leadership team," said Paul Steffes, founder and innovation advisor.

Steffes has evolved significantly in recent years, with new markets, growing teams and greater demand for products and expertise. The need for strategic clarity and alignment is critical as the company continues to grow.

"Appointing Mike as CEO gives us a single, dedicated leader to help focus, scale wisely and support our teams for the long term," said Steffes.

Winn joins the company with more than two decades of leadership experience in engineering, manufacturing and distribution industries at small, large, private equity-backed and privately owned companies. His past companies have been both customers of and vendors to Steffes, giving him a unique and valuable perspective.

"I'm humbled to step into this role and truly looking forward to working with the employees and customers to shape the future for generations at Steffes," said Winn. "My first priority will be getting to know the Steffes team. From there, everything else flows."

Most recently, Winn served as CEO at Yates Industries, where he led efforts to scale the business. He has a demonstrated ability to drive growth, improve operational efficiency and foster strong relationships with customers and employees.

The Steffes leadership team looks forward to this next chapter with Winn at the helm.

"From the start, we were committed to finding someone who would be the right fit for our business, people and customers," said Todd Mayer, co-president of Steffes. "I'm confident we have found that in Mike."

About Steffes

Steffes is a family-owned original equipment manufacturer renowned for its lean operations and expertise in product development and steel fabrication across diverse industries. Our primary focus areas are oil and gas, contract manufacturing, and electric thermal storage. Our dedicated team of business, engineering, and manufacturing professionals is known for its exceptional innovation and problem-solving skills, setting us apart in the manufacturing sector.

Steffes is headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota. We have manufacturing facilities across North Dakota and in Shelby, North Carolina, and business locations in Fargo, North Dakota; Midland, Texas; Casper, Wyoming; and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

SOURCE Steffes
Navoi Mining & Metallurgical Company (NMMC), Uzbekistan's state-owned mining giant, is preparing for an initial public offering that would make it the world's fourth-largest publicly listed gold miner.

Uzbekistan, a landlocked Central Asian nation bordering Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan, has been rapidly modernizing its mining sector under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's economic reforms. NMMC has taken a central role in that effort, as the miner contributes 6.5% of GDP and ranks among the largest employers in the country.

"It's a very exciting time now from an investment point of view. Uzbekistan is an alpha mining market," Eugene Antonov, the firm's deputy general director, recently said for intellinews.

Also Read: High Gold Prices Fail To Drive New Exploration, Research Shows

"There is still so much to be found; only a third of the country has been geologically surveyed and the Kyzyl-Kum desert barely at all," he added.

While gold is NMMC's flagship commodity, Uzbekistan's mineral wealth also includes uranium, copper, silver, molybdenum, zinc, tungsten, and rare earth elements. The country is among the world's top uranium producers, with operations managed separately under Navoiuran.

NMMC's principal asset is Muruntau  the largest open-pit gold mine in the world. This asset, visible from space, has reserves estimated at 150 million ounces. The quarry spans 3.3 km in length, 2.5 km in width, and more than 600 meters deep.

Muruntau produces around 60 tons of gold annually, representing 70% of NMMC's total resources. In 2023, the company mined 2.9 million ounces of gold at one of the lowest production costs globally, $979 per ounce, generating $7.4 billion in revenue and $4.5 billion in EBITDA.

Pursuing the broader privatization agenda, the government plans to sell up to 5% of NMMC. Bloomberg reported that the deal would involve a dual listing on the London Stock Exchange and the Tashkent Republican Stock Exchange, citing anonymous sources.

Yet before that, NMMC reorganized into a joint-stock company, appointed independent directors, and adopted international reporting standards. The company has already tested investor appetite through two oversubscribed Eurobond issuances totaling $1.5 billion.

The management is also proud of the environmental, social, and governance plan, which targets 21% of energy from renewables by 2026.

"We don't just have an obligation to shareholders," Antonov said. "We aim to be a sustainable producer for the benefit of the people of Uzbekistan."
The new product offers companies confidential insights about their workforce, along with policy solutions designed specifically for their employees that are tied to tangible business ROI.

FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Best Place for Working Parents , the national network of businesses and regions across the U.S. committed to implementing evidence-based, family-friendly strategies that support their working parents AND their business, is proud to announce the Employee Survey, Solutions & ROI Assessment (SSRA). This groundbreaking tool is designed to help businesses understand and address the impact of workforce child care challenges. The new program provides employers with actionable insights and tailored strategies to support working parents while driving measurable ROI for their business.

The Best Place for Working Parents Employee Survey, Solutions & ROI Assessment (SSRA) provides a confidential, research-based employee survey to gather honest feedback on child care and caregiving challenges impact on work. It calculates the potential ROI of family-friendly workplace policies and offers tailored recommendations to boost productivity, reduce attrition, and address absenteeism. (PRNewsfoto/The Best Place for Working Parents)

The SSRA provides a confidential, research-based employee survey to gather honest feedback on child care and caregiving challenges' impact on work. It calculates the potential ROI of family-friendly workplace policies and offers tailored recommendations to boost productivity, reduce attrition, and address absenteeism. Administered by The Best Place for Working Parents in partnership with Empactiv Research, the SSRA delivers actionable insights through a detailed employer report. This report includes:

Confidential, customized child care solutions

Measurable ROI related to reducing attrition, absenteeism, and improving productivity

Tangible, research-backed recommendations tailored to the unique needs of each company's workforce

"The Employee Survey, Solutions & ROI Assessment is more than just a survey," said Sadie Funk, National Director of The Best Place for Working Parents. "It's a strategic tool that equips businesses with data, solutions, and measurable outcomes to support working parents while enhancing their bottom line. These insights empower companies to take meaningful action, build a more engaged workforce, and create a workplace where employees and businesses thrive together."

"The Employee Survey, Solutions & ROI Assessment (SSRA) gave us invaluable insights into the challenges our working parents face," said Peter Holt, CEO and General Manager of HOLT Group. "Understanding their needs is essential in maintaining a supportive and collaborative workplace where we put our people first."

Businesses that participate in the SSRA gain a clear roadmap for addressing workforce child care needs and can leverage the findings to implement impactful, cost-saving solutions. The Best Place for Working Parents remains committed to proving that family-friendly is business-friendly, and the SSRA is another step in empowering employers to make informed, strategic decisions that support their workforce and drive long-term success.

SSRA investment varies based on company size, starting at $5,000. For more information on the Employee Survey, Solutions & ROI Assessment, visit bestplace4workingparents.com/employee-survey and to view a sample report, visit https://bestplace4workingparents.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ssra-report-sample.pdf .

About The Best Place for Working Parents

The Best Place for Working Parents is a growing network of businesses across the U.S. dedicated to providing support for working parents through evidence-based strategies, proving that family-friendly is business-friendly. A public-private partnership, The Best Place for Working Parents offers a competitive designation that recognizes innovation across the top ten research-backed family-friendly policies that help working parent employees and boost employers' bottom line. Businesses can qualify to become a Best Place for Working Parents business designation by taking the first-of-its-kind business online self-assessment. Learn more at https://bestplace4workingparents.com .

SOURCE The Best Place for Working Parents
NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Galien Foundation, the premier global institution dedicated to honoring innovators in life sciences, today announced the 2025 Prix Galien USA Award nominees for "Best Digital Health Solution," "Best Medical Technology," "Incubators, Accelerators and Equity," and "Best Startup." Winners will be announced during the Prix Galien USA Awards Ceremony on October 30, 2025, at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

"As Jury Chair, I am honored to recognize these exceptional nominees who exemplify the transformative power of innovation in medical technology, digital health, and entrepreneurship," said Kenneth C. Frazier, Chair of the Jury, Prix Galien USA Awards Committee. "Their groundbreaking work represents the future of healthcare and our shared commitment to improving lives through scientific excellence."

The 2025 Prix Galien USA nominees include products from the following categories: "Best Digital Health Solution"  25 nominees; "Best Medical Technology"  25 nominees; "Best Incubators, Accelerators and Equity" - 12 nominees, and "Best Startup" - 53 nominees.

To qualify, each candidate must be U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for marketing within the last five years and demonstrate tremendous potential to improve human health. Sales data are not considered by the nominating committee in their award nominee selection, only science and health impact.

Best Digital Health Solution (Nominees)

Abbott NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic AdhereTech Aidia System All4Cure, Inc. All4Cure Platform, MyelomaMap (TM), TrialMatchMM Aptar Digital Health Migraine Buddy's Weather and Trigger Advanced Reports Beaconcure Verify Cleerly Cleerly LABS Plaque Analysis Clinical ink GlucoseReady (TM) DNAnexus + Boehringer Ingelheim Joint Submission Project PRISM/Project CRYPTx Empatica Empatica Health Monitoring Platform Evinova Unified Trial Solution First Ascent Biomedical Inc xDRIVE/DxPP - Ex Vivo Drug Response Identification & Validation Engine / Drug Prediction Platform Future Doctor Inc MedGPT - AI Digital Twin of Doctors Helfie AI Helfie AI MPA MyPsychAdmin  The only AI solution that frees Mental Health Practitioners from computers/admin so they can spend more time with their patients. Mymee Mymee's product is a proprietary personalized trial & care platform for rheumatic autoimmune patients who can no longer control disease flares with prescription therapies. NeuraLight NeuraLight platform Otsuka Precision Health Rejoyn OURA Oura Ring 4 Patientory, Inc. Patientory Digital Health Data Wallet RapidAI Rapid Aneurysm Recursion Recursion Operating System (OS): end-to-end AI-driven drug discovery and development platform TECHMEDO Inc. Healthcare Operating System University of Rochester - Wilmot Cancer Institute University of Rochester - Wilmot Cancer Institute's Hyperion WARD 24/7 WARD Clinical Support System (WARD-CSS) Wheel Wheel Horizon

Best Medical Technology (Nominees)

Abbott Esprit BTK Everolimus Eluting Resorbable Scaffold System Abbott AVEIR Dual Chamber (DR) Leadless Pacemaker System Abbott TriClip G4 System Alcon TOTAL30 Soft Contact Lenses Beyond Air, Inc. LungFit PH bioMerieux BIOFIRE SPOTFIRE System and BIOFIRE SPOTFIRE Respiratory/Sore Throat (R/ST) Panel BioProtect BioProtect Balloon Spacer Body Vision Medical LTD. LungVision Boston Scientific FARAPULSE Pulsed Field Ablation System Cresilon TRAUMAGEL Edwards Lifesciences Edwards SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA Transcatheter Aortic Heart Valve Edwards Lifesciences Edwards EVOQUE Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement System ENDOLOGIX LLC DETOUR System Establishment Labs Holdings Inc. Motiva Flora SmoothSilk Tissue Expander Guardant Health Guardant360 CDx Impulse Dynamics Optimizer Smart Mini System Medtronic MiniMed 780G automated insulin delivery system Medtronic Symplicity Spyral Renal Denervation System Medtronic Inceptiv SCS OUR United Corporation TaiChiPro Perspectum CoverScan Polarean XENOVIEW HPX System RefleXion Medical RefleXion X1 with SCINTIX biology-guided radiotherapy Smith & Nephew, Inc. CORI Surgical System Terumo Aortic Thoraflex Hybrid

Best Incubators, Accelerators and Equity (Nominees)

AVANT BIO AVANT BIO Fund II LP Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines Calibr-Skaggs Drug Accelerator Cornell University Center for Life Science Ventures Cross-Border Impact Ventures Women's and Children's Health Technology Fund Cube Labs Cube Labs EIT Health EIT Health Accelerator Endless Frontier Labs Endless Frontier Labs MATTER SMILE Health Mayo Clinic Mayo Clinic and Arizona State University Alliance for Health Care Accelerator McGill Dobson Centre for Entrepreneurship McGill Dobson Centre for Entrepreneurship Nucleate The Activator OROT - CIUSSS West-Central Montreal OROT - Connected Health Incubator, CIUSSS West Central (Montreal)

Best Startup (Nominees)

Actipulse Neuroscience Actipulse Adaptilens, Inc.

ADVANCED BIODESIGN

ALGA BIOLOGICS ALGA BIOLOGICS Ascidian Therapeutics

BigHat Biosciences Milliner Bitterroot Bio

Bloqcube Inc.

Canary Medical Canary Medical Click Therapeutics Prescription Digital Therapeutics CUTISS AG

Dren Bio

Duo Oncology Duo Oncology Esperto Medical, Inc.

Ganymed Robotics Ganymed Robotics Gatehouse Bio, Inc.

Geneos Therapeutics GNOS-PV02+INO-9012 followed by intradermal electroporation. Personalized Therapeutic Cancer Vaccine Gleamer

Hope Medicine

Imaginostics, Inc.

Immunis, Inc.

Insilico Medicine

Intrepid Labs

Kapsule Kapsule Terminal LEAF4Life, Inc.

Libera Bio S.L. MPN Technology magAssist Co., Ltd.

Mammoth Biosciences

Manus Neurodynamica NeuroMotor Pen MediVIE Tech

Micron Biomedical, Inc.

Navigation Sciences, Inc.

Nona Biosciences

Nospharma

Paradigm Therapeutics

Qubit Pharmaceuticals Qubit Pharmaceuticals Quercis

REGEnLIFE

Resuscitec GmbH

SEED Therapeutics Inc.

Seismic Therapeutic

SFA Therapeutics, Inc.

Shenzhen ReeToo Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

SIMEDYS SIMEDYS SmartBiotic Antimicrobial Management by Smartbiotic Strand Therapeutics

SURGE Therapeutics

TargED Biopharmaceuticals B.V.

Turbine Simulated Cell Technologies Limited

ViCardia Therapeutics, Inc.

Vocxi Health MyBreathPrint XaTek Inc. ClotChip Zest Health Zest Health

Bruno Cohen, Chairman of The Galien Foundation, commented, "We are honored to recognize this year's outstanding Prix Galien USA nominees, whose innovation in medical technology, digital health, and entrepreneurship demonstrates the progress that moves healthcare forward. Their achievements reveal the extraordinary potential of science to change lives."

Prix Galien Best Medical Technology, Best Digital Health Solution, Best Incubator / Accelerator / Equity, and Best Startup Committee 2025

Kenneth C. FRAZIER

Committee Chair, Former Chairman & CEO Merck

Roch DOLIVEUX

Honorary CEO, UCB

Dr. Mikael DOLSTEN

Chief Scientific Officer & President, Pfizer Research and Development

Alex GORSKY

Former CEO & Executive Chairman, Johnson & Johnson

Penny HEATON

Global Therapeutic Area Head, Vaccines, Janssen

Sheri McCOY

Board of Directors, AstraZeneca, Former CEO, Avon

Joel S. MARCUS

Executive Chairman & Founder, Alexandria

Elias ZERHOUNI

Former Head of Global R&D, Sanofi

About The Galien Foundation

The Galien Foundation fosters, recognizes, and rewards excellence in scientific innovation to improve the state of human health. Our vision is to be the catalyst for the development of the next generation of innovative treatments and technologies that will impact the state of medical practice and save lives. The late Professor Elie Wiesel, 1986 Peace Nobel Laureate, is The Honorary Founding President of The Galien Foundation

The Foundation oversees and directs activities in the US for the Prix Galien, an international awards program dedicated to progress through innovative medicines development, with chapters in 14 countries, Africa and an inaugural chapter established in India in 2024. The Prix Galien was created in 1970 by Roland Mehl in honor of Galen, the father of medical science and modern pharmacology. Worldwide, the Prix Galien is regarded as the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in biopharmaceutical research.

For more information, visit www.galienfoundation.org .

Follow the Foundation on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/GalienFoundation/

https://twitter.com/GalienFdn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-galien-foundation/

Media Contact:

Kara Bradley

Finn Partners

[email protected]

646-213-7243

SOURCE The Galien Foundation
NEW YORK, Aug. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, the features launched by the Translr app to reduce the anxiety of transgender individuals regarding gender identity disclosure have sparked positive discussions among users. The ongoing societal debate around whether transgender individuals should disclose their gender history before dating has highlighted tensions between privacy rights and perceived obligations of transparency. This debate became even more intense after a report by The Daily Beast in July 2024. At that time, Colombian President Gustavo Petro held hands with Linda Yapes, the country's first well-known transgender TV journalist, during his visit to Panama. According to a 2024 survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, over 58% of trans individuals report fear or anxiety when deciding how and when to disclose their gender identity while dating online.

Transgender usersparticularly trans womenreport facing harassment, discrimination, and fetishization on some mainstream social platforms, even those promoting inclusivity. Instances include abrupt rejection or account reporting following gender disclosure.

Transgender woman model Eva Morris from New York City shared how dating can feel dehumanizing, even when she's honest from the start. "I met a guy through a popular dating app. He seemed kind and respectful  always checking in, saying sweet things. We decided to meet at a hotel for our first date. But once it was over, he never spoke to me again. That's when I realized he was never really interested in me  just the idea of me. I felt used, like I was only there to satisfy a curiosity. It broke something in me."

Even though she was upfront about being trans, she was still treated like a fetish. Stories like hers show why many trans people hesitate to disclose their identitythey fear judgment or rejection. Translr helps ease that fear by creating a space where being trans is normal, not something to hide.

"It started when a friend showed me a photo of a beautiful transgender woman. That night, I dreamed about taking her on a date  it was exciting, unforgettable. After that, I gave trans dating a try, and honestly, I got hooked," shared an engineer user Mike Watson from Pennsylvania how his interest in transgender dating began unexpectedly. His story reflects a growing number of users exploring deeper connections with trans individuals.

Translr employs two core methods to address disclosure concerns:

1. Trans-Centric Community Features

Precise Matching Mechanisms



Users can specify gender identity, transition status, and other key details upfront, ensuring compatible and respectful matches.



Strong Peer and Resource Support



Translr provides transition guidance, social advice, and real user stories, helping normalize trans experiences and reduce isolation.



Reduced rejection risk, as many cisgender users actively seek relationships with trans partners.



2. Eliminating the "Disclosure Dilemma"

Unlike platforms where trans users face pressure over when to discloserisking either prejudice or accusations of deceptionTranslr's environment normalizes transparency. Approximately 40% of its users openly seek long-term relationships with trans women, a notably higher rate than other apps.

By prioritizing safety and acceptance, Translr aims to create a space where gender disclosure occurs without fear of discrimination. Translr has also reported a 35% increase in active users over the past year, alongside a steady rise in successful matches and daily conversations.

About Translr

Translr is a specialized dating app designed for the transgender community and its supporters. It facilitates connections among transgender individuals, cisgender allies, crossdressers, and others in a moderated environment. The app is available on iOS and Android.

For more information, visit www.trandrapp.com.

SOURCE Translr
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is one of the best commodity stocks to buy. On August 6, 2025, Goldman Sachs held firm on its Buy rating, and even nudged its price target up from $175 to $177, after private meetings with Chevrons top brass. The firm said its now incrementally more constructive on Chevrons free cash flow outlook following discussions around the Hess integration, Guyana operations, cost-cutting efforts, and Permian and Gulf-of-America growth, signaling that the cash engine has room to rev up in 2026 and 2027.

Meanwhile, UBSs very own Josh Silverstein just reiterated his Buy call and lifted the price target again, this time from $177 to $186, echoing confidence in Chevrons tone and trajectory.

Goldman, UBS Boost Chevron Price Targets as Post-Hess Free Cash Flow Outlook Brightens

Photo by Luis Ramirez on Unsplash

With both megabanks aligning behind Chevrons free cash flow prospects, especially postHess, the message is crystal clear: Chevron isnt just enduring market turbulence; it's gearing up for a strong rebound.

Chevron Corporation, headquartered in San Ramon, California, is a global integrated energy powerhouse with operations spanning upstream exploration, downstream refining, and chemical production. It's best known as the secondlargest oil company in the U.S., generating massive free cash flow, funding dividends, and strategic buybacks.

While we acknowledge the potential of CVX 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.
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
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The third round of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) is set to take place in New Delhi on Wednesday, to further strengthen and expand the bilateral partnership between the two countries, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The high-level discussions come ahead of the possible visit of Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to India next month, according to media reports.

Representing India at the talks will be External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, and Minister of Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw.

They will be joined by six ministers from Singapore -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong will lead the delegation, accompanied by Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng, and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow.

India and Singapore elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the island nation last year.

The ISMR, envisioned by PM Modi, is described by the MEA as a unique platform for shaping a forward-looking agenda for Indiaa"Singapore cooperation.

The inaugural meeting was held in New Delhi in September 2022, followed by the second round in Singapore in August 2024. The third edition is expected to identify fresh opportunities to further strengthen the partnership.

In January this year, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited India for high-level engagements. During his visit, he met with EAM Jaishankar to discuss bilateral collaboration in areas such as semiconductors, industrial parks, skilling, digitalisation, and trade development.

He also held talks with Prime Minister Modi, focusing on "futuristic sectors" to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
Seoul, Aug 14 : North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has expressed his "full support" for Russia during his phone talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Pyongyang's state media reported Wednesday, ahead of an upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Putin in Alaska.

Kim and Putin held phone talks the previous day, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported, marking the first time that the North has reported on its leader's phone conversation with a foreign leader.

The phone talks came as Putin and Trump are set to hold a summit in Alaska on Friday to discuss efforts to halt Moscow's war with Ukraine.

Kim "expressed firm conviction that the DPRK would always remain faithful to the spirit of the DPRK-Russia treaty and fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future," the KCNA said, referring to a mutual defence treaty signed between the two nations in June last year.

DPRK is the acronym of North Korea's full name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

On North Korea's troop deployment for Russia's war with Ukraine, Putin highly appreciated the "bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by service personnel of the Korean People's Army in liberating Kursk, a part of Russian territory," according to the KCNA.

Russia's TASS news agency earlier reported that Putin briefed Kim on his upcoming meeting with Trump during their phone talks. But the KCNA did not report on such details.

The KCNA said Putin congratulated North Korea on its upcoming 80th anniversary of liberation on August 15, which marks Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule.

It added that Kim and Putin reaffirmed their will to strengthen cooperation and agreed to "make closer contact in the future."

The leaders of the North and Russia signed a mutual defense treaty in June last year in Pyongyang, which calls for providing military assistance "without delay" if either side comes under attack, Yonhap news agency reported.

North Korea has sent troops and weapons to Russia to support Moscow's war efforts. Russia's media reported the North will send 5,000 military construction workers and 1,000 sappers to Kursk to support reconstruction efforts.
Parnassus Investments, an investment management firm that focuses on owning a concentrated portfolio of U.S. large cap stocks, released its Parnassus Value Equity Fund second-quarter 2025 investor letter. The full letter is available for download here. For the second quarter of 2025, the fund reported a net return of 7.24%, outperforming its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Value Index, which returned 3.79% for the same period. The funds top 5 holdings are also listed in the letter, showing the firms main investment positions heading into 2025.

One of the companies mentioned in the letter is

Danaher Corporation

(NYSE:DHR). Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) designs, manufactures, and markets professional, medical, research, and industrial products and services in the United States, China, and internationally. Over the past month, Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) rose by 7.69%, and its shares lost -23.01% of their value over the last 12 months. On August 12, 2025, Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) shares closed at $205.72, with a market capitalization of $147.3 billion.

Here is what they have to say about Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) in their investor letter:

"Danaher Corporation's (NYSE:DHR) valuation is attractive, considering its scale advantages and deeply embedded products in biopharma workflows, which are difficult to replace without regulatory reapproval. Additionally, the companys market dominance positions it well to benefit from secular growth trends in biologics, genetic medicine and diagnostics. Although the industry faces near-term demand, policy and tariff challenges, we believe these factors have been largely reflected in the valuation."

Danaher Corporation (DHR) Is "Fool's Gold," Bemoans Jim Cramer

A healthcare professional in a lab coat holding a microscope and looking at a slide under the lens.dhrdhr

Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) ranks 27th in our list of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds. According to our data,

117 hedge fund portfolios held positions in Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) at the end of the first quarter of 2025, up from

101 in the previous quarter. DHR was able to beat earnings expectations as it reported an EPS of $1.8, beating expectations of $1.64. While we acknowledge the potential of DHR 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.

In another article, we covered Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) and Jim Cramers views on the company. In addition, please check out our hedge fund investor letters Q2 2025 page for more investor letters from hedge funds and other leading investors.
Tehran, Aug 13 : Iran's First Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref said that under favorable conditions, nuclear negotiations with the United States can be held directly, according to the official news agency IRNA.

"Iran is ready to negotiate under equal conditions as negotiation is for safeguarding both parties' interests," Aref told reporters. "If the conditions are suitable, the negotiations can be held even directly," he said.

Aref noted that Iran is in no way opposed to negotiations, but will not acquiesce to negotiations that only impose the intentions of the United States, Xinhua news agency reported.

Iran has told the United States that it is willing to build trust, "but it seems as if they (the Americans) are feigning sleep," he said.

Certain Western countries have falsely turned Iran's nuclear issue into a political project, Aref said, adding that "the zero enrichment scheme is a big joke."

On June 13, two days prior to the sixth round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States, Israel launched major airstrikes on several areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders, nuclear scientists and many civilians. Iran responded with multiple waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel.

On June 22, US forces bombed the three Iranian nuclear facilities of Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. In retaliation, Iran struck the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Following the 12-day war, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was achieved on June 24.

In recent days, Washington has repeatedly demanded that Iran completely cease uranium enrichment, a request firmly rejected by Tehran.
Sanaa, Aug 13 : Yemen's Houthi group said that it launched four drone attacks targeting the Israeli cities of Haifa, Negev, Eilat, and Be'er Sheva.

Using six drones, the attacks "successfully achieved their objectives," the group's military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement aired by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV on Tuesday.

Sarea said the attacks were carried out in response to Israel's "implementation of its plan to eliminate the Palestinian cause through genocide, starvation, and displacement."

He also vowed continued attacks against Israel until "aggression on the Gaza Strip stops and the blockade is lifted."

There were no immediate comments from Israel regarding the group's alleged attacks, Xinhua news agency reported.

Houthi forces have fired dozens of missiles and drones toward Israel since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023, citing solidarity with the Palestinians.

Most of the projectiles have been intercepted or have missed their targets. In response, Israel has carried out a series of strikes on ports and other infrastructure in Yemen.

Earlier on Saturday, Yemeni government forces repelled a large-scale offensive by the Houthi group in southern Yemen's Dhalea province and killed three Houthi militants during the confrontation, a military official told Xinhua.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Xinhua that the Houthis used heavy artillery in an attempt to break through government defensive lines in the Bab Ghalaq area in northern Dhalea, triggering intense fighting between the group and government forces.

The fighting lasted for about an hour before the Houthis were forced to withdraw in disarray toward their positions, whereas the government forces maintained their defensive positions, said the official.
Baghdad, Aug 13 : Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani met with visiting Syrian energy chief Mohammed al-Bashir to discuss the bilateral cooperation in oil, gas and energy.

Abdul Ghani emphasised the depth of the historical ties between the two peoples and the importance of maintaining them in a way that serves the national interests of both countries, Xinhua news agency reported quoting a statement by the Iraqi oil ministry.

The two sides discussed the current situation of the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline and the possibility of using it to export crude oil, it said, adding that they agreed to form a joint committee to study the condition of the pipeline and the possibility of resuming exports through it, with a proposal to involve an international consultant to determine the pipeline's operational viability, pumping systems, and feasibility of rehabilitation.

For his part, al-Bashir reviewed the current situation of the oil industry in Syria, said the statement.

He stressed the importance of cooperation in the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline, which has suffered from sabotage and aging problems, and the urgent need for its rehabilitation, it added.

The Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline, connecting Iraq's northern Kirkuk and Syria's coastal Baniyas, went into operation in 1952. During the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, the pipeline was heavily damaged and has remained inactive since.
New York, Aug 13 : US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that US relations with India are "good" while defending Washington's outreach to Pakistan, emphasising that having a president who communicates with everyone is beneficial.

"Our relationship with both nations is as it has been, which is good", she said on Tuesday when a reporter asked her if US President Donald Trump reaching out to Pakistan's military leader Asim Munir would be "at the expense of the president's relationship with (Prime Minister) Modi".

"That is the benefit of having a president who knows everyone, talks to everyone, and that is how we can bring differences together in this case", she said in defence of Trump's diplomacy towards Pakistan.

"So it's clear that the diplomats here are committed to both nations", she added.

Bruce did not respond to another part of the reporter's question, whether Trump's seeming "to have developed a strong relationship" with Munir "will lead to more US assistance to Pakistan and an increase in arms sales".

But she referred to the US-Pakistan dialogue on counter-terrorism held earlier on Tuesday in Islamabad.

The US and Pakistan "reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" during the meeting, she said.

They "discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats, and I think that is good for the region and for the world", she said.

Trump hosted Munir, who wields power over Pakistan's civilian government, at a White House lunch in June, asserting that he "wanted to thank him for not going into the war and ending it".

Munir came again to the US last week to participate in an event in Tampa, Florida, to bid farewell to General Michael Kurilla, who ended his tour as the commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), and welcome his successor, Admiral Brad Cooper. CENTCOM covers Pakistan, in addition to Central and West Asia.

Trump has claimed that he mediated an end to the conflict in May which was escalated by Islamabad after India launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan-based terror groups in retaliation for the terrorist attack by The Resistance Front, an off-shoot of Pakistan-protected Lashkar-e-Tayiba, in Pahalgam in April.

Munir has echoed that and nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

India has denied that there was any mediation by Trump, and a ceasefire was initiated by Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations, Major General Kashif Abdullah, who called his Indian counterpart, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai.

Bruce, who has been nominated to be the US deputy permanent representative to the UN, said that the US had ended "a conflict, one that could have developed into something quite horrible".

She said that "here was immediate concern and immediate movement with the Vice President, the President, and the Secretary of State, in addressing the nature of what was happening".

Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio worked to "stop the attacks and to then bring the parties together so we can have something that was enduring...and it's a very proud moment and a very good example of what Secretary Rubio was committed to", she added.
Chennai, Aug 13 : As the sanitation workers' strike entered its 13th day on Wednesday, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) launched an overnight cleaning operation in Royapuram and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, deploying contract labourers and staff from other zones to tackle mounting garbage piles.

Workers under the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) have been protesting against the privatisation of solid waste management since the GCC awarded a Rs 276-crore contract to a private firm.

The strike has left waste uncleared across the two zones, triggering public criticism and concerns over health hazards.

Despite the deteriorating situation, striking workers offered to remove the piled-up waste without pay to protect public health. However, GCC rejected the proposal and instead mobilised nearly 1,200 personnel -- including contract workers and teams from Tondiarpet, Anna Nagar and other zones -- for a special drive on the nights of August 11 and 12.

According to civic officials, over 650 metric tonnes of waste were cleared in the operation.

Union leaders have condemned the move, accusing the corporation of trying to sow discord among sanitation staff.

"The GCC is attempting to create divisions between workers by bringing in outside staff for this drive. We will not give in. If workers from other zones join our protest, the situation will escalate," warned S. Kumarasamy, adviser to the Labour Progressive Federation (LTUC), which is leading the agitation.

Several rounds of negotiations between the GCC and the protesters have failed to yield a breakthrough. While workers demand assurances on job security and benefits, the civic body insists that its plan will protect their interests.

In an official statement, GCC pledged that all NULM staff from Royapuram and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar will be given employment under contractual arrangements with full benefits, including provident fund, bonus, and Employees' State Insurance coverage.

The corporation appealed to the strikers to resume work immediately.

As the impasse continues, the protest threatens to spread to other parts of the city, with some workers from unaffected zones reportedly willing to join the agitation. For now, the GCC is pressing ahead with alternative arrangements to maintain cleanliness, while union leaders vow to keep up pressure until their demands are met.
New York, Aug 13 : The US has held a counter-terrorism dialogue with Pakistan, which hosts several terrorists and terror groups, and they reaffirmed their "shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations", according to their joint statement.

New York, Aug 13 (IANS) The US has held a counter-terrorism dialogue with Pakistan, which hosts several terrorists and terror groups, and they reaffirmed their "shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations", according to their joint statement.

At the dialogue held in Islamabad on Tuesday, the US "applauded Pakistan's continued successes in containing terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world.", the statement said.

The statement mentioned three terrorist organisations, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), but was silent about at least five others and their affiliates that are on the US government's list of terrorist organisations based in Pakistan.

Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda, which carried out the 9/11 attacks on the US, was given refuge by Pakistan and was taken out by US Navy Seals in a 2011 raid.

US State Department's Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory LoGerfo and Nabeel Munir, Pakistan's special secretary for the United Nations, co-chaired the dialogue.

In Washington State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said they "discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats, and I think that is good for the region and for the world".

The statement said, "Both sides emphasised that sustained and structured engagement remains vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability".

The dialogue is not the result of recent bonhomie of US President Donald Trump and Pakistan's military leadership, but has been held annually since at least 2023 when Democrat Joe Biden was the president.

The statement said the two "delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by" the three terrorist groups it named.

On the eve of the dialogue, the US added the BLA and its affiliate The Mujaheed Brigade (TMB) to its roster of Foreign Terrorist Organisations, which along with their leaders face US sanctions.

The US, according to the statement, "expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the barbaric Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar".

BLA claimed responsibility for the hijacking of the Jafar Express train in April, with over 300 passengers, in which 31 civilians and security personnel were killed.

The Pakistan government has blamed the suicide-bombing of a school bus in Khuszdur in May on BLA.

At least eight students were among the ten civilians killed.

According to the statement, the US and Pakistan emphasised "building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes" and cooperation in international organisations like the UN, where Pakistan is currently an elected member of the Security Council.

The US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue's joint statement is silent on these organisations on the US government's Foreign Terrorist Organisation list: Hizbul Mujahideen, Jaysh al-Adl/Jundallah, Lashkar i Jhangvi, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, and Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, along with four affiliates, including The Resistance Front, which carried out the Pahalgam massacre in April and was added to the list last month.
Dausa : , Aug 13 (IANS) Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Wednesday expressed grief over the truck-container collision in Dausa, which killed 11 people, including women and children.

Over half a dozen people were also injured in the accident, which happened at around 3.30 a.m. when a collision occurred between a pickup truck and a container near Bapi village in Dausa. The pickup truck was carrying more than 22 devotees at the time of the crash.

According to the information, the deceased include three women and seven children.

Taking to X, CM Bhajanlal said, "The news of the loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured."

"May God grant a place at His divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured," he added.

According to preliminary findings by the police, the container truck rammed the pickup from behind with considerable force, resulting in the immediate death of 10 people.

Upon receiving the information, the police hurried to the location and transported the injured individuals to a nearby hospital, where another woman died from her injuries, raising the death toll to 11.

The remains of the deceased have been forwarded for autopsy.

All of them were from Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, and were returning after visiting the Khatu Shyam and Salasar Balaji Temple when the accident happened in the Sainthal police station area.

After hearing the collision and chaos, people nearby reached out to help and called the police and ambulance.

As soon as the information was received, the police arrived at the spot and all the injured were sent to the trauma unit of the district hospital. Since many people were left seriously injured, additional medical staff were called in.

District Collector Devendra Kumar and Superintendent of Police Sagar Rana also reached the spot and the hospital to gather the details of the incident.

The deceased have been identified as Poorvi (3), Priyanka (25), Daksh (12), Sheela (35), Seema (25), Anshu (26), and Saurabh (35).

The identities of four other victims are yet to be identified.

Several injured passengers are being treated at Dausa District Hospital, while those in critical condition were rushed to SMS Hospital in Jaipur for advanced care. Among the seriously injured are Lakshya (5), Naitik (6), Rita (30), Nilesh Kumari (22), Priyanka (19), Saurabh (28), Manoj (28), and another unidentified patient. Medical teams are working to stabilise their condition.
Seoul, Aug 13 : South Korea's exports of information and communication technology (ICT) products jumped 14.5 percent from a year earlier in July on record-high performance of chips, data showed on Wednesday.

Outbound shipments of ICT products reached US$22.19 billion last month, compared with $19.38 billion a year earlier, according to the data compiled by the Ministry of Science and ICT. It marks the highest export volume for any July.

Imports gained 9.8 percent on-year to $13.32 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $8.87 billion in the sector, reports Yonhap news agency.

The science ministry attributed the sharp increase in exports to record shipments of semiconductors, which spiked 31.2 percent on-year to $14.72 billion on higher memory chip prices amid growing investments in artificial intelligence servers by global companies.

Exports of display products, on the other hand, slipped 8.9 percent to $1.76 billion amid an industry-wide downturn.

Shipments of mobile devices also slumped 21.7 percent to $960 million and those of computers and accessories decreased 17.1 percent to $1.09 billion.

By destination, exports to the United States jumped 11.9 percent to $2.71 billion, led mostly by semiconductors and mobile devices, extending their on-year gains to 21 consecutive months.

Shipments to China, meanwhile, shed 5.6 percent to $7.47 billion due to weaker demand for chips, displays and mobile devices.

Exports to the European Union and Japan gained 18 percent and 23.9 percent, respectively, the data showed.

Earlier, South Korea's exports dropped 4.3 percent from a year earlier in the first 10 days of this month, due in part to sluggish shipments to the United States on an escalating tariff scheme.

Outbound shipments reached US$14.7 billion in the Aug. 1-10 period, compared with $15.4 billion tallied a year earlier, according to the data from the Korea Customs Service.

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Mumbai, Aug 13 : Actor Chunky Panday revealed his visit to Kolkata made him time travel to a "magical era".

Mumbai, Aug 13 (IANS) Actor Chunky Panday revealed his visit to Kolkata made him time travel to a "magical era".

Chunky took to Instagram, where he shared a string of pictures from his visit to the city of joy, where he was greeted like royalty.

In one image, the actor was seated at a dining table in a traditional Indian restaurant with a large thali with Bengali delicacies placed in front of him. He was seen wearing a turban and the staff standing behind him could be seen holding large, decorative hand fans.

The father of actress Ananya Panday wrote in the caption: "Kolkata's Best kept Secret @raajkutir. The Stories, the suites, the service , the setting and the Bengali cuisine. Made me time travel to a magical Era."

Earlier this month, Chunky celebrated Friendship Day with his school gang. He shared a bunch of pictures from his reunion with his friends from St Andrews.

He wrote in the caption: "With all my schoolmates, the Andrean Boys. A night of Biryani, Booze and Bull. Love these guys. St Andrews class of 1978. Thanks Robin K for hosting us".

Chunky was last seen in "Son of Sardaar 2," a Hindi-language comedy film directed by Vijay Kumar Arora.

It is a standalone sequel to the 2012 action comedy film Son of Sardaar, and stars Ajay Devgn, Mrunal Thakur, Ravi Kishan and Sanjay Mishra. The film also the posthumous film of Mukul Dev. In the film, a man fakes being a war hero to assist a couple in gaining their parents' approval for their marriage.

The first installment of the film was released in 2012 and was directed by Ashwni Dhir. It had Ajay Devgn, Sanjay Dutt, Sonakshi Sinha and Juhi Chawla. A remake of the 2010 Telugu film Maryada Ramanna, it was released on 13 November 2012.
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Following the Supreme Court's verdict on relocating stray dogs to shelters in Delhi-NCR, veteran actress-politcian Nafisa Ali, who cannot imagine her life "without dogs", says the decision to "rid Delhi roads of dogs is totally devastating" and said it's a "disaster in making." Mumbai, Aug 13 (IANS) Following the Supreme Court's verdict on relocating stray dogs to shelters in Delhi-NCR, veteran actress-politcian Nafisa Ali, who cannot imagine her life "without dogs", says the decision to "rid Delhi roads of dogs is totally devastating" and said it's a "disaster in making."

Nafisa took to Instagram, where she shared a string of images of herself feeding strays at a beach in Goa.

She wrote: "I cannot imagine my life without dogs. Street dogs are the kindest and loving. The Supreme Courts of India's decision to rid Delhi roads of dogs is totally devastating."

"They live for 14 years. Animals react on instinct. This is a disaster in the making," she added.

The veteran star said that her months of "lockdown during Covid and that when she was recovering from cancer, she shared a heartwarming experience with all the dogs on Morjim beach in Goa."

"The lockdown was tough and lonely , but caring for the beach dogs brought a sense of purpose and comfort. I fed them every evening, Interact with them. Their companionship probably made the isolation more bearable. #delhidogs," she said.

Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan directed civic bodies across Delhi-NCR to immediately capture all stray dogs and relocate them to shelters, citing serious concerns over public safety and the rising risk of rabies.

The Justice Pardiwala-led Bench described the situation as "grim" and emphasised that urgent action was necessary to ensure the safety of children, women, and the elderly on the streets.

Directing the MCD, NDMC, and civic agencies in Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad to make the streets completely free of stray dogs, the top court issued a stern warning that any organisation or group obstructing their removal would face strict legal action.

The Supreme Court has ordered these civic agencies to begin picking up all stray dogs in their jurisdictions and move them to designated shelters. If such shelters do not already exist, the authorities have been asked to construct them without delay and submit a report on the infrastructure to the apex court within eight weeks.

Nafisa is known for her work in films such as Junoon, Major Saab, Life In A... Metro, Guzaarish and Yamla Pagla Deewana to name a few.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has reached a management agreement with Hotel Eastern Nepal to establish a new Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Dhulabari, Nepal.

This move signifies IHG's strategy to expand its presence in South West Asia. It marks the second collaboration with Hotel Eastern Nepal, after the opening of Holiday Inn Resort Kathmandu Budhanilkantha.

IHG Hotels & Resorts South West Asia managing director Sudeep Jain said: We are excited to strengthen our presence in Nepal with Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dhulabari.

Building on the successful launch of Holiday Inn Resort Kathmandu Budhanilkantha with our partners, the new signing in Dhulabari is a testament to the trust, alignment, and shared vision we have established together.

With an opening scheduled for 2026, the upcoming Holiday Inn Express & Suites will offer 99 rooms and suites, diverse dining options, and a rooftop setting.

The hotel's strategic location in Jhapa District provides easy access for travellers, being close to the Nepal-India border at Kakarvitta and Chandragadi Domestic Airport.

Additionally, the Pathibhara Devi Temple, a pilgrimage site, is a 15km drive away.

Hotel Eastern Nepal chairperson Binita Thapa Khadka said: We are proud to expand our partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts with the addition of a second hotel. Our experience of working with IHG for Holiday Inn Resort Kathmandu Budhanilkantha affirmed IHGs operational excellence and brand value, making this next project a natural step forward.

Dhulabari presents an exciting opportunity for growth, and with IHGs trusted expertise and global standards, we are confident this hotel will elevate the hospitality offering in the region and serve as a strong economic contributor.

This development is expected to cater to a mix of business and leisure travellers, specifically benefiting from the growing commercial and agricultural industries in the region, stated IHG.

With a scarcity of branded hotels in the area, the Dhulabari property is also set to become a space for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), as well as social gatherings.

"IHGs Holiday Inn Express hotel brand expands in Nepal" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




New Delhi, Aug 13 : Tech giant Apple has denied any foul play, insisting its platform is "fair and free of bias" after Tesla and SpaceX owner Elon Musk accused the iPhone maker of favouritism in App Store rankings.

New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) Tech giant Apple has denied any foul play, insisting its platform is "fair and free of bias" after Tesla and SpaceX owner Elon Musk accused the iPhone maker of favouritism in App Store rankings.

Musk had claimed that that OpenAI's ChatGPT ranks first because of Apple's favouritism, while his apps, X and xAI's Grok, are being sidelined.

Apple denied allegations that its App Store algorithms or curated lists favour ChatGPT over Musk's offerings. "The App Store is designed to be fair and free of bias," the company insisted, adding that recommendations are based on charts, algorithms, and expert editorial curation using objective criteria, according to multiple media reports.

"Our goal is to offer safe discovery for users and valuable opportunities for developers, collaborating with many to increase app visibility in rapidly evolving categories," the company's statement continued.

Musk on X criticised Apple for allegedly making it "impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1."

He claimed that although X led the News chart and Grok received major updates, including making Grok 4 free for all users, his chatbot only reached fifth overall and second in the Productivity category.

Meanwhile, ChatGPT has held a firm grip on the top spot on the App Store. Musk had alleged that Apple's support for ChatGPT is not driven by organic popularity. Apple has highlighted ChatGPT in App Store editorial content and incorporated OpenAI's technology into its Apple Intelligence rollout, integrating it directly into Siri and writing tools.

Musk threatened "immediate legal action" over the matter, although no lawsuit has yet been filed.

Apple faces a challenging situation as it contends with a prominent antitrust case from the US Department of Justice. The company is appealing a ruling from its ongoing legal battle with Epic Games, which mandated changes to certain App Store rules.

Last week, on the eve of GPT-5's launch, ChatGPT maker OpenAI announced massive bonus payouts for about 1,000 employees, which is approximately one-third of its full-time workforce.

GPT5 is available to all users, with Plus subscribers getting more usage and Pro subscribers getting access to GPT5 Pro, a version with extended reasoning for even more comprehensive and accurate answers.
Chennai, Aug 13 : Actress Madhushalini, who is as popular in Tamil as she is in Telugu, has now turned a producer by presenting director Srujan Attada's Telugu film 'KanyaKumari', featuring Geeth Saini and Sricharan Rachakonda in the lead.

Talking to IANS, the actress, who made a name for herself in the Tamil film industry with her impactful performances in director Bala's 'Avan Ivan' and the Kamal Haasan-starrer 'Thoongavanam', says that she is now working both as an actress and at the same time, producing films.

"I am already in the process of producing a Hindi film. It is a science fiction film and it is yet to be titled. Although I turned producer with that film, 'Kanya Kumari' will technically be my first film as producer as it releases first," she discloses.

Producing a film requires quite a bit of courage. Ask her what made her make that decision and she says with a laugh, "I was actually looking for good scripts for myself. That was when I found out that there were so many stories that needed to be told. I thought that when I have the capacity to tell these stories, I will. I came across this sweet, sweet story and I wanted to help them in whatever capacity I could. That is when I thought I would present this film."

So, what was it about Kanya Kumari that she chose to back the film by presenting it?

Says Madhu Shalini,"It is a very rooted love story between a boy and a girl who have their own goals. A lot of girls will be able to relate to this story. When you have a perception of where you want to be or what you want to do in terms of goals or objectives, so much can happen if your family and friends are on your side. However, when the converse happens, it can take a toll on the person."

Written, directed and produced by Srujan Attada under the banner of Radical Pictures, the film stars Geeth Saini and Sricharan Rachakonda in the lead roles.

The makers have announced that the film will have a grand theatrical release on August 27th, on the occasion of Vinayaka Chathurthi.

Set in the natural setting of Srikakulam, this feel-good story has music by Ravi Nidamarthy, cinematography by Shiva Gajula and Hari Charan, and editing by Naresh Adupa.
Kolkata, Aug 13 : The records of the voters' lists of around a hundred polling booths in West Bengal, post the last Special Intensive Revision carried out by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in 2002, are not available.

The 2022 list is supposed to be the basis for carrying out the SIR by the Commission this year. Insiders from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said that the matter would be brought to the notice of the ECI and permission would be sought to use the draft votersa list for 2003 as the basis of the fresh SIR.

The sources said that, in the case of certain booths, the records of the 2002 post-SIR were not available at all. In some cases, the lists have been damaged in such a way that it is impossible to upload them to the Commission's server.

It is learnt that the majority of the polling booths, whose records are not available, are from South 24 Parganas, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, and Birbhum districts, all being traditional strongholds of Trinamool Congress.

The development has surfaced at a time when the ECI and the state government are at loggerheads over the Commission's suspension of four election officials posted in two Assembly constituencies in two districts of West Bengal. The four officials were suspended for their involvement in the wrongful addition of names to the electoral rolls of these two seats.

After the state government, earlier this week, intimated to the ECI that it would not currently comply with the order to suspend the four election officials, the Commission, on Tuesday, summoned the state Chief Secretary Manoj Pant to the ECIas headquarters in Delhi by 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Now all eyes are on the outcome of the meeting between Pant and ECI officials.

The complications on the issue of disciplinary action against the four election officers started from the beginning, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee challenging the Commission's order. She said that no action would be taken against the four officers as all of them were state government employees.

The main charges against these four election officers are that they not only failed to perform their duties as EROs and AEROs while disposing of the applications, but also violated the policy of data security by sharing the login credentials of the election registration database with unauthorised persons.

If proven guilty, the punishment of the erring individuals will be imprisonment for a term of at least three months, but can extend to two years, and with a fine, as per legal provisions.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Women with Down syndrome have more advanced signs of Alzheimer's disease than men do, according to research.

However, the average age of Down syndrome diagnosis is the same for both men and women, said the University of California, Irvine.

The study suggests that women with Down syndrome may carry a higher burden of beta amyloid and phosphorylated tau -- two hallmark Alzheimer's proteins -- than men. It was particularly high in the occipital lobe in women with sporadic Alzheimer's disease -- the more common, late-onset form of Alzheimer's that occurs without a clear genetic cause.

This insight points to the need for more sex-specific approaches in both Alzheimer's research and treatment planning, especially in the design of clinical trials.

"Understanding selective vulnerabilities within the brain and how these differ in women versus men will help us to better navigate treatment outcomes. We're learning the importance of modifiable risk factors, which include accounting for sex-specific risk," said lead author Elizabeth Andrews, doctoral candidate at the varsity.

Alzheimer's disease is the primary cause of death for individuals with Down syndrome, who are genetically predisposed to develop the condition earlier in life.

While previous studies observed that women with Down syndrome may live longer with dementia than men with Down syndrome, few have looked closely at whether the underlying brain pathology differs by sex.

In this study, the researchers examined postmortem brain samples and measured levels of beta amyloid and tau.

The findings, published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia, can shape how we understand and approach treatments for Alzheimer's in this population and beyond.

"If women with Down syndrome are further along in disease progression at the time of diagnosis, it could change how we time interventions and interpret outcomes in clinical trials," said Elizabeth Head, Professor of pathology at UC Irvine.

"This research could help tailor therapies more effectively, not just for people with Down syndrome, but for the broader Alzheimer's population as well," Head added.
Chennai, Aug 13 : Congratulating superstar Rajinikanth for completing 50 glorious years in the film industry, actor, producer and Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Udhayanidhi Stalin on Wednesday disclosed that he had watched the Rajinikanth-starrer 'Coolie' and that he had "enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer."

Taking to his X timeline to pen the congratulatory post to Rajinikanth and to all the cast and crew members of director Lokesh Kanakaraj's Coolie, which is to hit screens on Thursday, Udhayanidhi wrote, "I am truly delighted to congratulate our Superstar @rajinikanth sir on completing 50 glorious years in the film industry. Had the opportunity to get an early glimpse of his much-awaited movie #Coolie, releasing tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer and am sure it will capture the hearts of audiences everywhere.

"My heartfelt wishes for a roaring success to @rajinikanth sir, @sunpictures, Sathyaraj sir, @Dir_Lokesh, #AamirKhan sir, @iamnagarjuna sir, @nimmaupendra sir, @anirudhofficial, #SoubinShahir, @shrutihaasan and the entire team behind this movie."

The film has triggered huge expectations as it gears up to hit screens and reach audiences in over a 100 countries around the world on Friday.

Apart from Rajinikanth, the film also stars stalwarts from the Indian film industry like Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Aamir Khan, Upendra, Soubin Shahir and Shruti Haasan in pivotal roles.

A trailer that was released by the makers recently has only added to the hype and excitement. From the trailer, it is evident that Rajinikanth is a close friend of Sathyaraj in the film and that he has been maintaining a low profile until the time, he realises his friend is in grave danger. He chooses to come to Sathyaraj's aid despite his daughter Shruti Haasan's protests.

It may be recalled that the Censor Board has cleared the explosive action entertainer for release with an A certificate. The film getting an A certificate has got a section of the audience concerned.

Family audiences and children form a considerable chunk of actor Rajinikanth's fan base and Coolie getting an 'A' certificate will mean families will be unable to take their children to theatres to watch the eagerly-awaited film.
Seoul, Aug 13 : Former South Korean first lady Kim Keon Hee was placed under custody at a solitary cell Wednesday, a prison official said, after a Seoul court issued a warrant for her arrest as special prosecutors investigate various corruption allegations against her.

Being taken into custody made her and her husband, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, the first former presidential couple to be detained simultaneously.

Kim was moved to Seoul Nambu Detention Centre in southwestern Seoul, just hours before the Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant late Tuesday, citing concerns she could destroy evidence.

At the detention centre, Kim was set to receive the same entry procedures as any other detainee -- a physical examination and taking mug shots in a Khaki-colored prison uniform.

She was expected to be held in a solitary cell that's about 6 to 10 square metres in size with amenities, such as a locker, a foldout table, a television and a toilet. She will have to sleep on a mattress on the floor as there is no bed.

If she is placed in a larger cell, there could be more amenities, such as a sink.

Kim will reportedly have separate bath and exercise hours from other detainees so that she does not meet them.

She will be provided the same meals as others, with the detention centre offering bread, strawberry jam, milk, sausage and salad for breakfast Wednesday.

Special counsel Min Joong-ki's team requested the warrant against Kim last week on charges of violating the Capital Market Act, the Political Funds Act and a law on the acceptance of bribes for mediation.

Under the law, the Presidential Security Service can provide security to former presidents and their spouses, which is no longer necessary for Kim after her arrest, Yonhap news agency reported.

Kim's husband, former President Yoon Suk Yeol, is currently held at Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, just south of Seoul, over his failed attempt to impose martial law in December.
Srinagar, Aug 13 : A soldier was killed on Wednesday as the alert troops foiled an infiltration bid on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector.

Srinagar, Aug 13 (IANS) A soldier was killed on Wednesday as the alert troops foiled an infiltration bid on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmiras Uri sector.

aOne soldier was killed during a fierce gunfight with terrorists. The Army has launched a counter-infiltration and border action team (BAT) operation in the area, and a search operation is underway. The troops foiled the infiltration bid in the Churunda area of Uri in the Baramulla district," the officials said.

A counter-infiltration operation has been launched in the area to track down the terrorists. An exchange of fire is going on, and further details are awaited, the sources added.

Meanwhile, the protracted anti-terrorist operation in the Akhal Devsar forest area of Kulgam district in Kashmir entered its 13th day on Wednesday.

Notably, this operation is the longest ongoing anti-terrorist operation in the Valley.

On the first night of the gunfight on August 1, one local terrorist was killed and four soldiers were injured. Two injured soldiers later succumbed to critical injuries, while the other injured are being treated in the hospital.

Officials said that since this is a vast and dense forest area, the operation may be prolonged.

Joint forces, including the Indian Army, CRPF and J&K Police, had started CASO (Cordon & Search Operations) in the area on August 1.

The Army has deployed Rudra helicopters, drones and para commandos to ensure that the hiding terrorists are unable to escape.

Security forces have been carrying out aggressive operations against the terrorists in the hinterland, while the Army has been on maximum alert guarding the LoC in J&K.

The elimination of three hardcore Pakistani terrorists responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed, is part of the aggressive operations being carried out by the joint forces.

Three hardcore Pakistani terrorists, including Lashkra-e-Taiba (LeT) commander, Suleman Shah and his two associates, Abu Hamza and Jibran Bhai, responsible for the Pahalgam attack, were killed on July 28 in the higher reaches of Dachigam national park on the foot of Mahadev mountain peak in Harwan area of Srinagar.

The Army code-named this operation as aOperation Mahadeva.

After the Pahalgam terror attack, the security forces are carrying out anti-terrorist operations against gun-wielding terrorists, their overground workers and sympathisers.
Hyderabad, Aug 13 : Actress Manchu Lakshmi Prasanna on Wednesday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a case relating to the promotion of illegal betting apps.

Lakshmi, who is also a producer, reached ED's regional office in Basheerbagh around 10.30 a.m.

The ED officials are likely to question her about endorsement for betting apps, the contracts she signed and the remuneration she received. The Central agency may record statements and gather details with regard to financial transactions.

Manchu Lakshmi is the fourth actor to appear before the ED in this case.

Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda and Rana Daggubati have already appeared before the Central agency. These actors were questioned for 4-5 hours each.

Rana Daggubati was questioned for nearly four hours on Monday.

The ED last month summoned actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi in the case.

Prakash Raj appeared on July 30 while Vijaya Deverakonda was questioned on August 6.

The four actors were among 29 celebrities booked by the ED on July 10 for allegedly endorsing illegal betting apps.

The central agency filed an ECIR against 29 actors, influencers, and YouTubers for allegedly promoting illegal betting platforms, in violation of the Public Gambling Act, 1867.

The probe, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, is based on five FIRs filed in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

In March this year, Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj and others were booked by Cyberabad police for allegedly promoting betting apps.

Rana Daggubati and Vijay Devarakonda stated that they endorsed only legally permitted online skill-based games.

After the questioning by the ED on August 6, Vijay Deverakonda claimed that he was summoned for questioning about the gaming app, which he had endorsed.

The actor maintained that he endorsed a gaming app as gaming apps are legal, recognised by the government and licensed as a business.

He furnished details like account, company and financial transactions.

Prakash Raj had told the ED officials on July 30 that he did not take any payment for an endorsement he had done in the past.

The officials took details about the advertisement he had done for a betting app in 2016.

Prakash Raj said he told the ED officials that he did not take any payments, as his conscience did not allow him to take it.

He reiterated that he did only one advertisement for a gaming app, but later realised that he should not have done it.
Athens, Aug 13 : Greece is battling dozens of wildfires across the country, forcing mass evacuations and damaging homes, farmland, and industrial facilities as extreme winds and heat hamper firefighting efforts.

82 wildfires in the past 24 hours, with 23 still active by nightfall Tuesday. Gale-force winds of up to nine on the Beaufort scale fanned the flames, prompting the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection to mobilise firefighters, forest rangers, aircraft, and volunteers nationwide, reports Xinhua, quoting Greek official news agency AMNA.

In the western region of Achaia, a major blaze near the industrial zone of Patras triggered repeated emergency alerts and the evacuation of more than 20 settlements.

State television ERT said industrial facilities, homes, and farmland were damaged, and at least three people were treated for burns or respiratory problems. Heavy smoke put the nearby Agios Stefanos prison on high alert, while three Coast Guard vessels and private boats stood by for sea rescues, and traffic on key highways was suspended.

On the eastern Aegean island of Chios, flames swept through forest and farmland, reaching villages in the Volissos area. ERT reported that six villages and three settlements, including a camp for people with disabilities, were evacuated. Dozens of people were rescued from beaches by Coast Guard units and private boats. Houses and an olive oil mill were destroyed.

On Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea, three active fire fronts stretching over 15 km forced the evacuation of the villages of Agalas and Keri, along with tourist facilities. Several homes, farm buildings, and livestock were lost, while helicopters struggled to operate due to wind and terrain.

Wildfires in Vonitsa, in western Greece, and the Preveza region also damaged agricultural areas, olive groves, stables, and warehouses.

Greece has faced severe heat and drought in recent weeks. These conditions that combined with strong winds, have fueled the rapid spread of wildfires.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Wednesday announced that train services will begin at 4 a.m. across all lines on Independence Day, August 15, to facilitate the movement of guests, invitees, and the general public attending the celebrations at the Red Fort.

According to the DMRC advisory, trains will operate at a frequency of 30 minutes until 6 a.m., after which the regular timetable will be followed for the rest of the day.

"To facilitate the special guests, invitees, and general public to attend the Independence Day ceremony on Friday, 15th August 2025, the Delhi Metro will commence its services at 04:00 a.m. on all its Lines from all terminal stations. The train services will be available at a frequency of 30 minutes on all the Lines till 06:00 a.m. and thereafter, the regular timetable will be followed for the rest of the day," Delhi Metro said in a statement.

"In addition, people in possession of a bona fide Invitation Card issued by the Ministry of Defence for attending the Independence Day ceremony will be provided special QR tickets for travel to and from the venue," the advisory stated.

According to the rail cooperation, the cost of such travel will be reimbursed to the DMRC by the Ministry of Defence. Lal Quila, Jama Masjid, and Delhi Gate Metro stations are the closest to the venue.

Earlier in the day, a full-dress rehearsal for the Independence Day celebrations was held at the Red Fort under tight security.

The rehearsal featured security personnel, cultural contingents, and ceremonial arrangements that will be replicated on August 15.

Delhi Police had issued a traffic advisory for the rehearsal, restricting vehicle movement around the Red Fort from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Several key roads, including Lothian Road, Chandni Chowk Road, SP Mukherjee Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg, and Nishad Raj Marg, were closed to general traffic.

Traffic from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Salimgarh Bypass, Vikas Marg, and nearby areas was also diverted to ensure smooth mobility and security.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mr. Kipalan is an experienced environmental, social performance and sustainability executive with over 20 years in the mining industry, specializing in sustainability, governance and social performance in Papua New Guinea, Australia, and the Pacific. He brings a deep understanding of stakeholder expectations, Indigenous Peoples agreements and sustainable development, having served in senior roles with Lihir Gold Limited, Newcrest Mining Limited, and Newmont Corporation, where he was most recently Regional Manager, Environment, Social Performance and Governance. Mr. Kipalan also serves as Chair of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy Sustainability and Climate Change Committee, and is on a number of NGO boards. He holds a Master of Science degree in Sustainability from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Sciences from the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

Mr. Komunt is an experienced community and government relations leader with over 25 years of experience in the mining industry, specializing in corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and risk management. Mr. Komunt joined K92 in early 2025, most recently holding the position of General Manager, Community Affairs and External Relations. From 2018 to 2024, he served as Country Manager for Newcrest Mining Limited and, following its acquisition, with Newmont Corporation in Papua New Guinea, where he played a key role in negotiations and oversaw government, regulatory, and community relations. He previously held senior roles with Nautilus Minerals Ltd., Morobe Mining Joint Venture, Highlands Pacific Limited at the Kainantu Gold Mine, and Ok Tedi Mining Ltd., managing community programs, security operations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Mr. Komunt has completed advanced training in leadership, governance, and project management through Newcrest Mining Limited and other organizations, contributing to the success of major mining projects. Mr. Komunt also serves as a Director of the PNG Motor Vehicle Insurance Company and previously served as Chairman of the New Ireland Provincial Health Authority, Vice President Papua New Guinea for the Australia PNG Business Council and as a council member of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy.

Story Continues

John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, Since joining K92 in early 2025, Stanley has made outstanding contributions to strengthening our community affairs and external relations function. His leadership has been instrumental in building trust, enhancing dialogue, and delivering meaningful outcomes in our engagement with government, regulatory bodies, and local stakeholders. We are equally delighted to welcome Felix to the team. He brings over two decades of senior experience in sustainability, governance, and stakeholder engagement, with the vast majority of his experience in Papua New Guinea.

These appointments significantly strengthen K92s capability to deliver on our commitment to responsible mining, sustainable development, and fostering long-term partnerships with our host communities and various stakeholders. Congratulations to Stanley on his well-deserved promotion and to Felix on his appointment  we look forward to your future contributions.

About K92

K92 Mining Inc. is engaged in the production of gold, copper and silver at the Kainantu Gold Mine in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea, as well as exploration and development of mineral deposits in the immediate vicinity of the mine. The Company declared commercial production from Kainantu in February 2018, is in a strong financial position, and is working to become a Tier 1 mid-tier producer through ongoing plant expansions. A maiden resource estimate on the Blue Lake copper-gold porphyry project was completed in August 2022. K92 is operated by a team of mining company professionals with extensive international mine-building and operational experience.

On Behalf of the Company,

John Lewins, Chief Executive Officer and Director

For further information, please contact David Medilek, P.Eng., CFA, President and Chief Operating Officer at +1-604-416-4445

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (i) the results of the Kainantu Mine Definitive Feasibility Study, and the Kainantu Preliminary Economic Assessment, including the Stage 3 Expansion, a new standalone 1.2 mtpa process plant and supporting infrastructure; (ii) statements regarding the expansion of the mine and development of any of the deposits; (iii) the Kainantu Stage 4 Expansion, operating two standalone process plants, larger surface infrastructure and mining throughputs; and (iv) the potential extended life of the Kainantu Mine.

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 are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control, that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation, Public Health Crises, including the COVID-19 virus; changes in the price of gold, silver, copper and other metals in the world markets; fluctuations in the price and availability of infrastructure and energy and other commodities; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; volatility in price of our common shares; inherent risks associated with the mining industry, including problems related to weather and climate in remote areas in which certain of the Companys operations are located; failure to achieve production, cost and other estimates; risks and uncertainties associated with exploration and development; uncertainties relating to estimates of mineral resources including uncertainty that mineral resources may never be converted into mineral reserves; the Companys ability to carry on current and future operations, including development and exploration activities at the Arakompa, Kora, Judd and other projects; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Companys ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the availability and costs of achieving the Stage 3 Expansion or the Stage 4 Expansion; the ability of the Company to achieve the inputs the price and market for outputs, including gold, silver and copper; failures of information systems or information security threats; political, economic and other risks associated with the Companys foreign operations; geopolitical events and other uncertainties, such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine; compliance with various laws and regulatory requirements to which the Company is subject to, including taxation; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions, including relationship with the communities in Papua New Guinea and other jurisdictions it operates; other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry; and the risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to in the Companys Annual Information Form under the heading Risk Factors.

Estimates of mineral resources are also forward-looking statements because they constitute projections, based on certain estimates and assumptions, regarding the amount of minerals that may be encountered in the future and/or the anticipated economics of production. The estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves is inherently uncertain and involves subjective judgments about many relevant factors. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The accuracy of any such estimates is a function of the quantity and quality of available data, and of the assumptions made and judgments used in engineering and geological interpretation, Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actual results to differ materially from those that are anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company 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.




Chandigarh, Aug 13 : As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini hoisted the Tricolour at his official residence, Sant Kabir Kutir, here, saying, "Our National Flag is a symbol of our pride and glory."

The Chief Minister hoisted the Tricolour under the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan.

In an appeal to the public, the Chief Minister, in a message, said, "To mark Independence Day, every house should hoist the Tricolour and participate in this festival of national unity."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his 12th consecutive speech from the Red Fort on August 15.

A day earlier, CM Saini flagged off 'Tiranga Yatra' led by girl students from Chandigarh and will travel through Punjab and reach Jammu and Kashmir's historic Lal Chowk on August 18.

The yatra, organised by the Media Student Association, aims to foster unity, promote respect for the National Flag and strengthen bonds of brotherhood across the country.

The Chief Minister also paid floral tributes to the portrait of Bharat Mata.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Saini congratulated the office-bearers and members of the association, especially more than 100 girl students, participating in the march.

"This entire yatra is being led and managed by girl students. When our daughters take the lead in any campaign, it gains sensitivity, determination and resolve manifold. This journey showcases not only the strength and courage of Haryana's daughters but also represents the power of women across the nation. I wish all the girls a bright future ahead," he said.

The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, constant efforts have been made for women's empowerment in the past 11 years.

He also mentioned that the recent 'Operation Sindoor' was a testament to India's resolve to protect its sovereignty.

India's two daughters, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sophia Qureshi, led from the front and informed the nation about 'Operation Sindoor' with courage and pride, he added.
Patna, Aug 13 : Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday reiterated that he may boycott the upcoming state elections, accusing the Election Commission of large-scale irregularities.

Tejashwi announced that from August 17, he will join the "Vote Rights Yatra" with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, during which they will meet the public and discuss the issue.

"After the yatra, we will seriously consider whether to participate in the Assembly elections or not. When the Election Commission has already decided everything, it can also be considered that we do not participate," he said.

He alleged that the Commission is "robbing votes" at the behest of the BJP. Citing examples, he claimed that Muzaffarpur Mayor and senior BJP leader Nirmala Devi's name appears in two separate voter lists within the same constituency, with two different EPIC cards and mismatched ages.

He further alleged that her two brothers-in-law also hold duplicate registrations with separate IDs.

Tejashwi Yadav also pointed out that two EPIC numbers of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha were raised by the RJD, and only then did the Election Commission serve notice to him.

"More interestingly, Sinha's name appeared in two districts, and according to my knowledge, the district administration of only one district has served notice to him," Yadav said.

Tejashwi also claimed that the BJP's Bihar in-charge Bhikhu Bhai Dalsania is registered in Bihar's voter list despite being from Gujarat.

"Last time in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, he voted in Gujarat, removed his name from there, and now he will vote in Patna. After elections, he might again get his name removed here and vote in Gujarat," Tejashwi charged.

The RJD leader alleged serious irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, claiming the BJP has been rendered "speechless" as revelations emerge.

He criticised the Election Commission for not holding a press conference on the matter and vowed to expose flaws in the SIR process.

"Earlier, the BJP used agencies like the ED and CBI; now it is using the Election Commission," Tejashwi said.

Recalling the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, Yadav alleged that he lost by 12,000 votes in one seat and that his party was deliberately made to lose 10 seats.

"This is all a game of vote theft," he claimed.

With the Assembly elections just months away, the voter list controversy is emerging as a flashpoint between the ruling NDA and the opposition Mahagathbandhan.
Chaibasa : , Aug 13 (IANS) A Maoist was killed in a fierce encounter with police and security forces near Sauta village under Goilkera police station limits in West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand, on Wednesday morning. An SLR rifle was recovered from the site, officials said.

Jharkhand Police IG (Operations) Dr Michael Raj said the encounter took place during a joint search operation in the Goilkera area, a known Maoist stronghold.

He said as the team entered the forested hill terrain of Sauta, Maoist cadres opened indiscriminate fire. The forces retaliated, triggering a gun battle that lasted for nearly an hour, with several rounds of firing exchanged from both sides.

According to the IG, the rebels suffered significant losses. A Maoist body was recovered after the area was secured, though the deceased is yet to be identified.

He said security forces have intensified combing operations in the area to track down Maoists who managed to escape.

For the past several weeks, police have been conducting sustained anti-Naxal operations in the Saranda region and adjoining forests -- dismantling Maoist bunkers, seizing large caches of IEDs, and recovering weapons.

Officials say the campaign aims to eradicate Maoist influence from the region.

Dr Raj asserted that the forces have been achieving "continuous success" and expressed confidence that Maoist activities in the area will soon be eliminated.

This year alone, 23 Maoists have been killed in various encounters across Jharkhand. In April, eight Maoists -- including top leader Prayag Manjhi alias Vivek -- were gunned down in a major operation in Bokaro district's Lugu Hills.

Earlier, police had claimed that Maoist activities are now restricted only to the Saranda jungles in Jharkhand. They said they have been eliminated from other areas.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier said that the security forces will wipe out Maoism from the country by March next year. He also appealed to the Maoists to surrender and join the mainstream by availing the government's rehabilitation package.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : Karnataka BJP state President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra said on Wednesday that party legislators will visit the temple town of Dharmasthala on Sunday (August 17) to seek the blessings of Lord Manjunatheshwara.

He also said that the investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the mass grave allegations should conclude soon.

The development has assumed significance against the backdrop of the ongoing investigation into the mass grave case.

Vijayendra made the remarks while participating in the hoisting of the National Flag as part of the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign at the residence of party worker Lakkaswamy in Maruthi Layout, Guttahalli, Bengaluru.

Giving details about the visit to the pilgrimage centre, Vijayendra said, "Next Sunday, August 17, we will visit Dharmasthala along with all senior legislators and MLCs. We will take darshan of Lord Manjunatheshwara and return. We are visiting Dharmasthala as devotees of Lord Manjunatha rather than as BJP party workers."

When asked about the controversy surrounding the SIT investigation into the Dharmasthala murders case, he said, "The BJP has clarity on this. The SIT investigation should conclude at the earliest. It cannot be dragged on any further. The truth must come out, and confusion should end immediately. People are also discussing the alleged role of the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and other anti-social elements in connection with the probe."

"We will pay a visit to Dharmasthala and take darshan of the deity," he reiterated.

When asked whether the visit is intended to send a political message, Vijayendra maintained, "We are visiting Dharmasthala to worship Annappa Swamy and Lord Manjunatheshwara."

Sources confirmed that at least 20 BJP legislators and senior leaders will visit Dharmasthala and perform worship to send out a message in the backdrop of alleged propaganda aimed at defaming one of the major Hindu pilgrimage centres. The BJP leaders are reportedly planning to travel from Bengaluru to Dharmasthala in about 200 cars along with their supporters, sources added.

Speaking about the campaign, Vijayendra said, "The BJP Karnataka unit has undertaken the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (National Flag on Every House) campaign, reaching out to the homes of party workers in villages, taluks, and district centres to encourage the hoisting of the National Flag atop every house. This is being done in line with the wishes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the party's National President J.P. Nadda. The campaign is being carried out to express love and dedication towards the nation."

As part of the campaign, national flags were distributed to party workers in the Malleshwaram Assembly constituency in Bengaluru, represented by former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan, he said.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the mass grave case, will begin the final phase of excavation at the 13th burial site on Wednesday. The developments are being closely monitored, as no significant evidence has been recovered in the past 13 days of excavation in the temple town of Dharmasthala.

The matter is also scheduled to be discussed in the Assembly session. The BJP will discuss attempts and conspiracies to defame the pilgrimage centre Dharmasthala by an unknown complainant.
Chennai, Aug 13 : Superstar Rajinikanth is set to celebrate a golden milestone this August 15, marking 50 years since his debut in Tamil cinema.

The legendary actor first appeared on the silver screen in K. Balachander's Apoorva Raagangal, released on Independence Day in 1975, beginning a journey that would make him one of the most celebrated figures in Indian film history.

In the five decades since, Rajinikanth has acted in more than 165 films across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and other languages, earning a reputation as Tamil cinema's biggest superstar and the "revenue king" of Indian cinema.

His inimitable style, screen presence, and ability to connect with audiences across generations have cemented his place as an enduring cultural icon.

As the anniversary approaches, messages of congratulations have been pouring in from across the film industry and political spectrum. Among them is Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president K. Selvaperunthagai, who issued a heartfelt statement lauding Rajinikanth's career and character.

"To the great hero of the silver screen, Superstar Rajinikanth, on this milestone of a half-century in your film journey, from the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, heartfelt wishes," Selvaperunthagai said.

"Your dedication, hard work, integrity, and simplicity serve as a role model for all. Your contributions to social service and the film world are unforgettable. May you live many more decades in health and happiness. Wishing you long life, well-being, and perpetual shine."

Rajinikanth's influence extends well beyond cinema. Over the years, he has earned admiration not only for his on-screen performances but also for his humility, philanthropic efforts, and ability to inspire millions.

Fans often refer to him simply as "Thalaivar" (The Leader), and his popularity cuts across age, region, and language barriers.

With August 15 approaching -- a date that holds both national significance and personal importance for the actor -- his admirers are preparing to celebrate the golden jubilee of his cinematic journey in grand fashion. For them, it is not just the commemoration of a career but a tribute to a man whose name has become synonymous with superstardom in Indian cinema.
Kolkata, Aug 13 : The BJP on Wednesday said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's claims on purported eviction of Bengali-speaking migrant workers from a colony in New Delhi have been busted by her party's MP in Parliament.

Kolkata, Aug 13 (IANS) The BJP on Wednesday said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's claims on purported eviction of Bengali-speaking migrant workers from a colony in New Delhi have been busted by her party's MP in Parliament.

The BJP's information technology cell chief and the party's central observer for West Bengal, Amit Malviya, said that in the Lok Sabha, June Maliah, the actress-turned-politician and MP from the Medinipur constituency, had asked a question about the "evictions" of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in Jai Hind Colony, Vasant Kunj, in the House.

The truth, as revealed in the government reply, is that no eviction drive took place, there was no water supply cut and not a single complaint was filed with the Delhi Jal Board, except for one social media post, Malviya said in a social media statement on X on Wednesday morning.

Malviya claimed that only two electricity connections were disconnected, and that too on the orders of a civil court.

"Once again, the false propaganda of the TMC has been exposed in Parliament, through their question! Bengalis are not being targeted, as falsely alleged by Mamata Banerjee to hide her misgovernance. Facts speak louder than their lies," Malviya claimed.

He also posted the question and the reply on his X handle, which is dated July 31.

To recall, a political war of words on social media platform X between BJP's Amit Malviya and Mamata Banerjee surfaced last month, over the reported eviction and harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers at Delhi's Jai Hind Colony.

On July 10, Malviya issued a social media statement where he claimed that false propaganda was being spread that politics played a role behind the action at Jai Hind Colony.

He claimed that not politics but a court order prompted the action. "The action being taken is based on a court order -- not politics. The settlement in question is illegal, and the law is simply being enforced. It is no coincidence that just days ago, 26 illegal Bangladeshis were apprehended from this very area," Malviya said in the statement.

A couple of hours after his statement on X was posted, CM Banerjee issued a strongly worded statement and post on her official X account claiming that she was deeply disturbed over the information of harassment emerging from Jai Hind Colony in New Delhi's Vasant Kunj -- a settlement predominantly inhabited by Bengalis.

"Their water supply was reportedly cut on orders from the BJP-led government. Electricity meters were confiscated, and power was abruptly cut the day before yesterday. Residents also claim that the Delhi Police, backed by Rapid Action Force personnel, blocked private water tankers they had arranged and paid for. A forced eviction is currently underway despite the matter being sub-judice following another transgression last December by the Delhi Police. How can we claim to be a democratic Republic if the basic rights to shelter, water, and electricity are being trampled upon?" the Chief Minister's statement said.
Dhaka, Aug 13 : As a Bangladesh court is set to record the testimonies of the prosecution witnesses in a corruption case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family on Wednesday, her son Sajeeb Wazed came down heavily on the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government for orchestrating "fabricated" cases against them.

The remarks came after a Bangladeshi court on July 31 brought charges against Hasina, her son Wazed, daughter Saima Wazed Putul, and several others in connection with the Anti-Corruption Commission's (ACC's) six cases over alleged corruption under the Purbachal New Town project.

The court also issued arrest warrants against them and fixed Wednesday to record the testimonies of prosecution witnesses.

Wazed, Former Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Advisor to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, asserted that no illegality was involved in the entire process in the acquisition of the Purbachal plots.

He stated that every step during the process -- from the application to allotment and payment -- "followed the letter of the law."

"This is simply a futile attempt by the Yunus Regime to sully the name of my family, spearheaded by a politically compromised Anti Corruption Commission, and overseen by a compliant judiciary too intimidated to pursue the truth," Wazed said in a post on X.

He said that the plots had to be purchased from the government as per the official rates and questioned, "Then, why these 'cases'? Because under the Yunus dictatorship, the ACC has been turned into a full-time tool for harassing and defaming my family members with baseless allegations."

Slamming the ACC Chairman Abdul Momen, Wazed said the previous Awami League Government sacked Momen over corruption allegations, adding that his only apparent qualification for the post of ACC chief is his background as a pro-Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) bureaucrat who once served as the private secretary of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia.

The former advisor, therefore, expressed little expectation of fairness and justice from the ACC.

He said that these so-called cases should have been thrown out by the Bangladeshi courts at first instance.

Wazed alleged that "given the Yunus regime's strict control over the judiciary, naked political interference of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami lawyers over judicial matters, public prosecutors who act and talk like BNP-Jamaat leaders, and the constant fear of mob violence, the courts are now not only entertaining such baseless allegations, but issuing arrest warrants at whims, arbitrarily ordering freezing of our properties, and taking these baseless, unmeritorious cases to the trial stage."

He also claimed that no legal protection was given to him or his family members while being tried in the court and said that "under the Yunus regime, there simply cannot be any trust on the judiciary's ability to discharge justice neutrally."

Raising concerns, he said that several leaders, supporters and associates of the Awami League are being arrested in "wholesale false criminal cases" and have been put in jail for months.

He also mentioned that the arrested individuals don't get bail, and even if someone manages to secure bail, they are then shown arrested in more cases to further prolong pre-trial detention.

Additionally, he also said that there is not even the "semblance of due process," where lawyers and defendants are not assaulted in courts without facing any action for it.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : Karnataka BJP raised the Koppal Hindu activist murder case in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday and demanded that the probe be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The party also urged the government to provide Rs 50 lakh in compensation to the deceased's family.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, BJP state President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra said, "In Koppal, on August 3, a brutal murder took place. Gavisiddappa Nayaka, a Hindu activist belonging to the Valmiki community, was hacked to death. The reason for the murder was that Gavisiddappa was in a relationship with a girl from another religion. At about 7.30 p.m., one Syed attacked him with a machete and killed him brutally."

"This has become national news. The important fact is that the accused killer had made Instagram posts showing machetes, created reels, and uploaded them before committing the murder. The police department failed to take precautionary measures, which resulted in this brutal incident," he said.

He said that after the murder, the Valmiki Mahasabha and all Hindu organisations staged protests and observed a bandh, and it was only after a bandh was called and the case got highlighted that the police woke up and arrested two or three persons in the case.

The BJP leader said that Gavisiddappa hailed from a poor family, and his father, Ningappa, lodged a complaint.

"We are making two demands. The deceased hailed from a poor family. His father is a daily wage labourer and has three daughters. It is impossible for him to run the family. I urge the government to provide compensation. Earlier, in the Mohammad Fazil murder case reported from Mangaluru, the government had given his family Rs 25 lakh in compensation," he said.

"Considering the poor background of the deceased's family, the state government must provide at least Rs 50 lakh in compensation. The family should also be given two acres of land, and one family member should be provided with a government job," he demanded.

"Importantly, this is a serious case. The murder was carried out in a manner similar to the killing of Mangaluru Hindu activist Suhas Shetty. I urge that this case be handed over to the NIA, because no one in the state has faith in the police department. The state must take this matter seriously and hand it over to the NIA," Vijayendra appealed.

Former Deputy CM and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan said the government had no shame, as the killer was arrested three days after the incident. "Is this government dead or functioning?" he questioned.

Koppal District In-charge Minister Shivaraj Tangadgi said he had visited the deceased's residence and that action had been initiated in the case.

BJP legislators stood up and criticised the Congress-led government for its handling of the case.

Speaker U.T. Khader intervened and advised BJP leaders to bring up the matter under other provisions if they wanted a discussion in the House. He said that during Zero Hour, members can make statements but cannot hold discussions. He further stated that the government would respond to the issue later.
Ahmedabad, Aug 13 : Gujarat Police have taken a major leap forward in underwater search and surveillance capabilities with the purchase of state-of-the-art Deep Tracker remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).

These cutting-edge, portable machines can dive up to 200 meters underwater and lift weights of up to 100 kg, revolutionizing evidence recovery and maritime operations for the force.

Equipped with ultra-high-definition 4K cameras, the Deep Tracker ROVs provide crystal-clear video even in murky waters, while advanced multi-beam SONAR technology enables precise navigation and operations in challenging underwater environments.

Each vehicle also features a 360-degree rotating grabber arm capable of retrieving heavy objects, along with powerful 2000 lumen lights for night missions. Gujarat Police is harnessing technology to enhance state security and operational efficiency.

Following directions from Director General of Police Vikas Sahay, the force has procured two such vehicles at a cost of Rs 2.8 crore, deploying one each in Vadodara and Rajkot as part of a pilot project.

These Deep Tracker ROVs are designed to assist in a wide range of underwater tasks, including search and recovery of evidence, underwater surveillance, crime scene investigation, and post-crime videography -- capabilities that significantly bolster the policeas operational toolkit.

The effectiveness of this technology was recently demonstrated during the rescue operations following the serious accident at Gamira Bridge near Padra in Vadodara district. Despite challenging, turbid water conditions, a specially trained police team led by Vadodara Rural SP Rohan Anand utilized the Deep Tracker ROV to locate submerged vehicles and critical evidence.

Thanks to the vehicleas camera and grabber arm, the team successfully retrieved a bike and important parts from the riverbed, underscoring the ROVas value not just in crime investigation, but also in search and rescue operations.

Police personnel operating these vehicles have undergone intensive three-day training sessions to ensure proficiency and effective deployment in real-world scenarios.
Moscow, Aug 13 : The Russian Defence Ministry on Wednesday accused the Ukrainian government of planning a provocation aimed at disrupting the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15.

In a post on Telegram, the Russian Defence Ministry said, "According to available information received through several channels, the Kyiv regime is preparing a provocation to foil the Russian-American talks scheduled for 15 August 2025."

The ministry asserted that with this objective, the security service of Ukraine has sent a group of foreign journalists to Kharkiv's Chuguev, which is under the control of Kyiv, under the pretext of doing "reports on the residents of the city in the frontline zone."

The defence ministry also claimed that the Ukrainian forces will carry out the strikes on the city and blame it on Russia.

"Immediately ahead of the summit on Friday, the Armed Forces of Ukraine plan a provocative strike using UAVs and missiles against one of the densely populated residential quarters or a hospital with a large number of civilian casualties, which will have to be immediately recorded by the foreign Western journalists," said the Russian Defence Ministry.

As a result, the ministry said that the Russian forces "will be considered fully responsible for the strikes and civilian casualties."

"This will create a negative media background and conditions for disrupting Russian-American cooperation on settling the conflict in Ukraine," the statement read.

It further claimed that there may also be provocations in other settlements controlled by Ukraine.

This comes as Trump and Putin are set to meet on August 15 in Alaska, focusing on achieving a long-term peaceful settlement of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Announcing the meeting, Trump posted on Truth Social, "The highly anticipated meeting between me and Putin will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska. Further details to follow."

Following the upcoming Alaska summit, Moscow expects the next meeting between Putin and Trump to be held in Russia, Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov said on Saturday.

"If we look ahead, then, naturally, we should aim for the next meeting between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump to take place on Russian territory," Ushakov was quoted by Russian state-run news agency TASS as saying.

"A corresponding invitation has already been sent to the US President," he added.
American supermarket chain Kroger has reached a settlement with C&S Wholesale Grocers, concluding a litigation in the Superior Court for the State of Delaware.

In March 2025, C&S filed a lawsuit claiming that Kroger's failure to finalise its proposed $24.6bn merger with Albertsons Companies resulted in a breach of their agreement.

This breach, according to C&S, entitles them to a termination fee since the incomplete deal thwarted their opportunity to purchase close to 600 stores and additional assets that Kroger and Albertsons had consented to divest as part of gaining regulatory clearance for their merger.

Kroger chairman and CEO Ron Sargent stated: "We are pleased to resolve the claims from C&S, and we look forward to a friendly relationship with them going forward.

"Kroger remains focused on serving our customers and running great stores across the US."

In September 2023, Kroger and Albertsons Companies reached a definitive agreement with C&S Wholesale Grocers for the sale of select stores, distribution centres and other assets as part of their proposed merger, originally announced in October 2022.

In December 2023, a coalition of legislators urged the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prevent Kroger's proposed acquisition of Albertsons.

The merger has encountered resistance from consumer advocacy groups and US state secretaries, who are concerned about potential negative impacts on market competition within the grocery sector.

By April 2024, the companies amended their agreement with C&S Wholesale Grocers to modify the initial divestiture package.

The revised package was designed to address concerns from federal and state antitrust regulators regarding the original agreement and included an expanded set of stores and additional non-store assets.

However, the merger between the two companies was abandoned in December 2024 due to legal challenges.

The terms of the settlement between Kroger and C&S Wholesale Grocers have not been disclosed.

In March 2025, Kroger filed an official response and counterclaims regarding the lawsuit brought forth by Albertsons in the Delaware Court of Chancery over the abandoned deal.

"Kroger resolves all claims from C&S Wholesale Grocers" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




Sydney, Aug 13 : Sydney Airport in Australia was partially locked down on Wednesday morning after a police officer's firearm was discharged in the course of an arrest.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed that officers arrested a man in the T2 domestic terminal at the airport on Wednesday morning after a police firearm was discharged.

An AFP statement said that an investigation into the incident has commenced and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The man was being detained by AFP officers in a struggle when the gun was fired, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Sydney Airport said in a statement that there were no reported injuries and that it was assisting the AFP. "The airport is operating normally," it said.

The AFP said that further information about the incident will be provided at an appropriate time.

Meanwhile, a man has been charged over a stabbing attack during a dispute with neighbours northeast of Sydney.

Emergency services were called to a street in Killarney Vale, 60 km northeast of Sydney, in the Central Coast region of the state of New South Wales (NSW), around 2 pm on Monday, where they found two women, aged 23 and 33, and a 20-year-old man with stab wounds.

The 23-year-old woman was airlifted to the hospital in a critical condition, while the 33-year-old was taken to the same hospital by ambulance paramedics in a serious condition.

The man was placed under arrest and taken to the hospital in a stable condition. Upon being released from the hospital, he was taken to a local police station and charged with assault occasioning bodily harm, affray, and possessing a prohibited drug.

NSW Police said in a statement that the stab wounds were sustained during a fight following an alleged neighbour dispute.

All three people involved were known to each other, police said.

As of Tuesday, both women were in a stable condition. NSW Police said that inquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Kolkata, Aug 13 : A youth has been arrested in connection with "beating" up a cop during Nabanna Avijan (march to state secretariat) on August 9, Kolkata Police said on Wednesday.

The person, identified as Chandan Gupta, was arrested in the New Market area in central Kolkata on Tuesday night.

Gupta (40) hails from Jagaddal in North 24 Parganas district. The police claimed that the arrested person is directly linked to the case.

"We have arrested one person named Chandan Gupta after examining various footage of the day of the incident. He was arrested at the junction of BB Ganguly Street and Bentinck Street. Further investigation is on in this case," said a senior police officer.

There are multiple charges against the arrested person, including attempt to murder, obstructing a government servant from discharging his duty and wilful assault.

A case has been registered under sections 109 (1) (attempt to murder), 121 (2) (voluntarily causing hurt) and 3 (5) (common intention) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The first anniversary of the ghastly rape and murder of a woman junior doctor of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9 was marred by massive violence following a scuffle between cops and protesters participating in the Nabanna Avijan.

The victim's mother alleged that she was beaten up by the policemen after she, along with her husband and other protesters, tried to march towards Nabanna.

The victimas mother and the BJP leaders alleged that in the police action, the sacred conch shell-bangle on her wrist, traditionally believed to be the symbolic representation of married Hindu women, was broken.

Joint CP (headquarters) further said that the march was held without permission from the police, and protesters even beat up the policemen who were on duty.

Seven FIRs (six with Kolkata Police and one with Howrah Police) were registered in connection with the violence during the march.

Khalid said a few people have been identified so far after watching the video.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Election Commission (EC), in its routine bulletin on the contentious Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive in Bihar, said on Wednesday that none of the political parties have filed any objection or complaints so far, regarding inclusion or exclusion of electors from the voters list.

More than 17,000 individuals approached the poll panel directly to register their complaints, EC further informed in its bulletin.

A total of 74,525 new electors have requisitioned the poll panel for inclusion of their names in the voting list. Out of these, six individuals who turned 18 after the publication of draft rolls on August 1, have submitted their forms through Booth level Agents (BLAs).

Besides the new voters seeking entry into Bihar's electoral rolls ahead of Assembly elections slated later this year, what has caught the attention of all is the absence of any claims and objections, particularly by the Opposition parties, particularly in light of their stiff resistance to voter verification drive in the poll-bound state, a month ago.

The Election Commission also informed that the claims & objections will be disposed by the concerned ERO/AERO after the expiry of 7 days after the verification of eligibility documents.

"As per SIR orders, no name can be deleted from the draft list published on 1st August 2025 without passing a speaking order by the ERO/AERO after conducting an enquiry and after giving a fair and reasonable opportunity," it said in the official statement.

Notably, the poll panel published its draft electoral rolls on August 1 and has kept a window of one month for people and parties to bring their complaints regarding inclusion or exclusion from the draft list.

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has 47,506 booth level agents (BLAs), the Congress has 17,549 and the Left has over 2,000, all adding up to over 67,000.

The ECI concluded the enumeration phase of the SIR, from June 24 to July 25. More than 7.24 crore electors - out of a total of 7.89 crore - submitted their enumeration forms, till the culmination of revision procedure.
Kolkata, Aug 13 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed on Wednesday that it has arrested an absconding accused in a rape case related to post-poll violence after the 2021 West Bengal Assembly Elections.

According to a press statement issued by CBI, the Central agency registered the case on August 30, 2021.

"It was further alleged that on May 4, 2021, the accused entered the house of the victim and committed rape on her," the CBI statement read.

The CBI had filed a charge sheet against the accused on May 5, 2022, before the Court of Ld. Special Judge SC/ ST(POA) Act, Tamluk, Purba Medinipur.

The accused was granted bail on September 25, 2024, by the Calcutta High Court

The probe agency then filed a special leave petition (SLP) at the Supreme Court challenging the aforesaid order of the Calcutta High Court.

Despite service of notice, neither the accused nor his advocate appeared before the Supreme Court. "Thereafter, on 02.08.2025, a non-bailable warrant of arrest was issued against the accused and CBI was directed to produce him before the Supreme Court of India on 13.08.2025," the CBI statement read.

After concerted efforts and on the basis of technical inputs, the accused, who had been hiding near a mosque at Ilaychipur in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad, has been arrested and will be produced before the Supreme Court on Wednesday, as per the CBI statement.

The arrested accused was identified as Usman Ali @ Ara @ Mir Usman Ali.

Recently, the CBI has become active on the pending case of violence in West Bengal, which occurred after the 2021 Assembly elections.

In July, a Trinamool Congress legislator and two councillors of Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) were named as accused in the supplementary charge sheet in the 2021 post-poll violence case.

The ruling Trinamool Congress, however, has claimed that it is a ploy by the BJP to put pressure on the ruling party leaders before the crucial Assembly elections in the state next year.
Phnom Penh, Aug 13 : Cambodia exported products worth 2.87 billion US dollar to the European Union (EU) market in the first seven months of 2025, up 18 per cent from 2.43 billion dollars over the same period last year, said an official report on Wednesday.

The EU market accounted for 16.1 per cent of the kingdom's total export volume of 17.72 billion dollars during the January-July period this year, said the report compiled by the Ministry of Commerce, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Cambodia's top five export destinations in EU countries are Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Belgium, the report added.

Meanwhile, a Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) report released on Tuesday said Cambodia attracted fixed-asset investment of 6.7 billion US dollars in the first seven months of 2025, a year-on-year rise of 84 per cent.

The Southeast Asian country approved 440 investment projects during the January-July period this year, up 88 per cent from 234 projects over the same period last year, generating about 312,000 jobs, the CDC said.

Main projects included an auto garage equipment factory, a car assembly plant, car tire plants, an electric three-wheeler assembly plant, solar power plants, a solar panel plant, wind power stations, a hydroelectric plant, metal and aluminium processing plants, metal mining, a dry port, tourism resorts, and a fruit processing factory.

China remained the top foreign investor in the kingdom, the CDC said.

Ministry of Commerce's Secretary of State and Spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement and Cambodia's bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) with China, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates are key factors in attracting foreign direct investment.

"These free trade pacts are magnets for foreign investors to Cambodia," he said, adding, "New investments will bring new capital, technologies and job opportunities for our people."
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday cancelled the bail of Olympian wrestler Sushil Kumar, a prime accused in the murder case of junior national wrestling champion Sagar Dhankar, asking him to surrender within a week.

A Bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and Prashant Kumar Mishra allowed the special leave petition (SLP) filed by Dhankaras father, challenging a Delhi High Court order granting bail to Sushil Kumar.

Sushil Kumar, along with others, is accused of allegedly assaulting former junior national wrestling champion Dhankar, a resident of Haryana's Rohtak, and his two friends, Sonu and Amit Kumar, in the parking lot of the city's Chhatrasal stadium, on May 4, 2021, over an alleged property dispute.

He has been in judicial custody since June 2, 2021, until the Delhi High Court granted him bail in March this year.

Sushil Kumar was arrested after staying on the run for 18 days following the death of Dhankar.

According to Delhi Police officials, Kumar had travelled to Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Haryana during the 18-day-long cat-and-mouse chase.

He was finally arrested in Delhi's Mundka area, where he had gone to collect some cash and also borrowed a scooty from a national-level player.

Following his arrest, he was also suspended from his railway job.

In October 2022, a Delhi trial court had framed charges against Sushil Kumar and 17 others, setting the stage for their trial. Additional Sessions Judge Shivaji Anand had framed charges against Sushil Kumar and the other accused under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to murder, rioting and criminal conspiracy.

According to a charge sheet filed by the Delhi Police, Sushil Kumar has been named as the kingpin of the whole murder conspiracy.

Sushil Kumar had won a bronze medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and a silver medal in the 2012 London Olympic Games.
Yangon, Aug 13 : Myanmar authorities have seized over 66.6 tonnes of illegal timber across the country during a three-day operation, state media reported on Wednesday.

From August 8 to August 10, the confiscated timber included over 22.07 tonnes of teak, over 9.46 tonnes of hardwood and over 35.14 tonnes of other types of timbers in the country's regions, states and Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, the report said, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting the state-run daily Myanma Alinn.

During this period, 29 suspects were charged in connection with the cases, and six vehicles and machines were also seized, it added.

The Forest Department under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation is cracking down on illegal timber trade through various enforcement measures, including the Community Monitoring and Reporting System, in collaboration with local communities, the report said.

Earlier in July, authorities seized two million stimulant tablets in Shan state, the state-owned daily The Mirror reported.

Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Mong Hsat township of Shan state on July 20, confiscated the drugs, and arrested two suspects.

The seized narcotics have a street value of 800 million kyats (about 0.38 million US dollars).

The suspects have been charged under the law.

In a similar incident on July 23, Myanmar authorities seized 67.33 kg of heroin in central Myanmar's Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) said.

Anti-narcotics police searched two vehicles in Lewe township of Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory and confiscated the drugs, after acting on a tip-off.

Two suspects aboard the vehicles were arrested, and another suspect in connection with the case was apprehended in Tachileik township of Shan state

On July 22, Myanmar's authorities seized 1,875 kg of methamphetamine, also known as Ice, and 1.6 million stimulant tablets in the Yangon region, the CCDAC reported.

Anti-narcotics police raided a house in Insein township of the Yangon region, and confiscated the narcotics, the CCDAC said.

A total of nine suspects in connection with the case were arrested in the regions of Yangon, Bago and Mandalay, the report said.

Investigation showed that the narcotics were destined for Malaysian waters, the report said.
Kochi, Aug 13 : Union Minister of State for Tourism and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi on Wednesday visited the home of Sister Preethi Mary, one of two Kerala-based nuns recently arrested in Chhattisgarh in connection with the forced conversion and human trafficking case, and assured her family of his full support.

According to the nun's brother, the minister listened to their concerns and pledged to stand by the nuns in addressing their needs.

"He heard us very patiently and said he will do everything he can to see how best things can be resolved," the nun's brother told the media.

However, Gopi did not address the press waiting outside, despite being trailed by reporters since his early-morning arrival in the state capital at 2.30 a.m. and his subsequent travel to Thrissur.

The case dates back to July 26, when Sister Mary and Sister Vandana Francis, members of the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate from Alappuzha, were "detained" by Bajrang Dal activists at a railway station in Chhattisgarh.

The activists alleged the nuns were attempting forced religious conversion and human trafficking while accompanying three tribal women from Narayanpur district to Agra for employment at a convent.

The nuns, along with a local man, were arrested and spent eight days in Durg Central Jail before being released on bail on August 2, following an order from a special NIA court in Bilaspur.

The arrests sparked a political and religious uproar in Kerala, where the Christian community - including many priests and nuns - holds significant influence, particularly in Thrissur. Gopi, who faced criticism for his silence during the controversy, was earlier targeted on social media by Yuhanon Mar Meletheos, Metropolitan of the Thrissur Diocese of the Orthodox Church.

In a pointed remark, the bishop wrote, "We haven't seen an actor from Thrissur, whom we elected and sent to Delhi. Should we inform the police?"

The minister's visit on Wednesday is being seen as an attempt to reach out to the Christian community in the wake of growing dissatisfaction over his public silence on the matter.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) season 2 is set to kick off on December 25, marking the return of a professional stage for Uttar Pradesh's finest kabaddi talent.

New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) season 2 is set to kick off on December 25, marking the return of a professional stage for Uttar Pradeshas finest kabaddi talent.

The league will comprise approximately 64 matches spread over 17 days, with all matches taking place in Noida. Season 2 will begin with a league phase followed by playoffs, with all players selected through an auction.

This milestone builds on the momentum of UPKLas inaugural season, which reached over 30 million TV viewers according to BARC India and generated 300+ million digital impressions, driven largely by audiences from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Season 2 is set to elevate the excitement with new franchises on board, more matches, and even bigger fan engagement.

Building on the excitement of Season 1, which featured exceptional star players like Arjun Deshwal, Vinay Tewatiya, Shubham Kumar, Sahul Kumar, Abhishek Thakur, Mohd Aman, Nitin Panwer, Abhijeet Malik, Arpit Sroha who captivated audiences across the state. This season promises to showcase top-tier talent and deliver even more thrilling kabaddi action and intense competition.

Sambhav Jain, director and founder, SJ Uplift Kabaddi Private Limited, said,"The success of UPKL season one was a testament to the growing love for kabaddi in our state, and none of it would have been possible without the unwavering support of our viewers, players, investors, sponsors, and every stakeholder involved. Building on the phenomenal success, as we move into the next chapter, we are thrilled for season two.

"We remain committed to our vision of building a strong platform for local talent and elevating kabaddi in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey so far and made season one possible. I look forward to everyone's continued support in making season two even bigger, bolder, more inspiring, and more impactful."

With fresh talent, new teams, and electrifying energy on the horizon, the countdown to Uttar Pradeshas biggest kabaddi celebration has officially begun.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Tata Motors, India's largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, on Wednesday announced that it has entered the Dominican Republic market through a partnership with Equimax, its authorised distributor in the country.

The move is part of Tata Motors' global expansion plan and aims to offer a range of commercial vehicles tailored to the region's logistics, infrastructure, and last-mile delivery needs.

The company has launched several models, including the Tata Super Ace for quick last-mile delivery, the Tata Xenon pickup for heavy-duty utility work, the Ultra series of trucks (T.6, T.7, T.9) for smart urban logistics, and the LPT 613 tipper designed for construction and infrastructure projects.

These vehicles are built to provide strong performance, durability, and lower operating costs -- qualities that have contributed to Tata Motors' global reputation.

At the launch event in Santo Domingo, Asif Shamim, Head of International Business at Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said the Dominican Republic is a promising market with a growing economy and infrastructure needs.

"The Dominican Republic presents a high-potential market aligned with Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles' global growth ambitions. With its growing economy and infrastructure, our advanced commercial vehicle solutions are well-positioned to support national development goals," Shamim stated.

He added that the company's advanced vehicle range, backed by Equimax's service and support network, will deliver reliable performance and long-term value for transporters and businesses.

Gabriel Tellerias, President of Equimax, said that the introduction of Tata Motors' vehicles will benefit the country's transport and logistics sector.

He emphasised that the models chosen for the Dominican Republic have been carefully selected to match local business needs, and assured customers of high-quality after-sales service and easy access to genuine spare parts.

Tata Motors' commercial vehicles are sold in more than 40 countries, covering everything from small mini-trucks to heavy-duty trucks and passenger transport solutions.

With over 70 years of experience in the commercial mobility sector, the company continues to focus on delivering performance, durability, and cost efficiency to customers worldwide.
Liberty Mutual has reached a settlement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ), agreeing to pay $4.7m in relation to bribery charges linked to its subsidiary's operations in India, reported Bloomberg Law.

The settlement marks the first enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) since the Trump administration's policy changes on foreign corruption law.

The insurance company came under scrutiny after it was revealed that its Indian operation had paid approximately $1.5m in bribes to intermediaries.

These intermediaries, in turn, influenced several state-owned banks to direct customers toward Liberty Mutual's insurance products, leading to a considerable increase in the company's revenue and profits in India.

According to the DoJ, the illicit activities resulted in $9.2m in revenue and $4.7m in profits for Liberty Mutual.

The agreement, known as a declination, ensures that the company avoids criminal prosecution by repaying the profit earned from these illicit activities.

The terms of the settlement are notably more stringent than if the investigation had been terminated or if the case had been dismissed prior to trial, the report said.

Although the DOJ has not specified if charges will be pursued against the individuals who facilitated the bribes, it has highlighted Liberty Mutual's actions in separating from those involved in the misconduct and its cooperation with the government's ongoing investigation.

The resolution of this case will be subject to a senior DoJ review, aligning with the FCPA enforcement guidelines issued by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, the report added.

In a statement, a Liberty Mutual spokesperson said: We are pleased the DoJ acknowledged our proactive approach and affirmed our commitment to integrity and compliance across our global enterprise.

We welcome this conclusion and, in addition to already taking decisive steps to address this matter, will continue to uphold our values and act responsibly everywhere we do business.

"Liberty Mutual agrees to pay $4.7m over bribery charges in India " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Mumbai, Aug 13 : A Bangladeshi minor girl, subjected to brutal sexual abuse and violation for three months across Maharashtra, was rescued by the Maharashtra police and at least 12 persons with direct involvement in the flesh trade racket were apprehended.

The racket, operating from Naigaon near Vasai, about 50 km from Mumbai, sent shockwaves across the city as shocking details emerged about her sexual exploitation and torture for over three months, reportedly by more than 200 men.

The prostitution racket, when busted by Mumbai police, revealed that the Bangladeshi girl was pushed into the flesh trade by forging her documents, and the human trafficking gang also involved some female members.

Speaking to IANS, a police official shared the modus operandi of racketeers and how they trapped the minor girl into prostitution.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Madan Ballal, from the Mira-Bhayander Vasai-Virar (MBVV) Police Commissionerate, described the case as both serious and sensitive due to the minoras involvement. "We have rescued two victims, one a 14-year-old minor and another aged 21. Nine suspects, including two agents, are in custody. The victims were lured to India, tortured, and forced into sexual activities. Fake documents were used to alter their ages, and we are actively investigating to apprehend the remaining accused, including the customers involved."

The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of the MBVV police, under the leadership of Police Commissioner Niket Kaushik and with assistance from NGOs Exodus Road India Foundation and Harmony Foundation, conducted the operation on July 26 to free the minor from the clutches of her exploiters.

The victim, originally from Bangladesh, shared a chilling account with the officials. She revealed that she fled her home after failing an examination, fearing harsh punishment from her parents. A woman named Ruby, known to the girl, lured her to Kolkata, where fake documents were created to alter her age, misrepresenting her as older to facilitate her exploitation.

From Kolkata, the minor was trafficked to Nadiad in Gujarat, where she endured rape and blackmail. An elderly man allegedly took obscene photographs, using them to coerce her into prostitution. The cycle of abuse continued as she was bought and sold across multiple cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra, trapped by fear and terror.

The breakthrough came when intelligence reached the MBVV police and their NGO partners about the girlas presence in Naigaon. Acting swiftly on Commissioner Kaushikas orders, the AHTU devised a meticulous plan to rescue her. The operation culminated in her liberation, and she was subsequently handed over to the Child Welfare Committee in Ulhasnagar, Thane, where she is now receiving counselling and care to help her recover from the trauma.

The investigation has uncovered disturbing details, including the involvement of 12 Bangladeshi agents in the trafficking ring. Authorities have arrested nine individuals so far, including two key agents who allegedly orchestrated the operation.

The Naigaon police are investigating cautiously, given the caseas gravity and the minoras vulnerability. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities determined to dismantle the racket.
Washington, Aug 13 : Tara Chand, President of Baloch American Congress, on Wednesday slammed Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir for making nuclear threats, calling him a "fake Field Marshal" and an "enemy" of humanity.

This comes as Munir, during his US visit over the weekend, warned that Pakistan will never allow India to choke the Indus River and will defend its water rights at all costs, even if the forces will have to destroy any dam that India seeks to build on it.

Chand, also a former Cabinet Minister in the Government of Balochistan, took to X and posted, "Pakistan's fake Field Marshal, General Asim Munir, who has threatened in America to destroy India and the world with his nuclear bombs, should be ashamed of himself. He is the number one enemy of humanity, driven by the madness of religious extremism under the banner of Islam. He seeks to destroy the world along with India."

Flagging it as a wake-up call, the US-based Baloch leader called on the world leaders to take back all of Pakistan's nuclear weapons and impose economic, political, and international sanctions on the country.

Raising concern, Chand stated that before "religiously-motivated" Pakistan and its leadership can act on their destructive ambitions, their nuclear weapons have to be removed in order to prevent the rogue state from bringing harm to the world.

Munir, the Pakistani media reported on Monday, visited two US cities over the weekend and flew to Belgium on Sunday after completing his second high-profile trip to the United States in less than two months.

Earlier in May, Chand wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lauded India's decision to hold the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance.

He also urged New Delhi to provide support to the "free Balochistan" movement.

On behalf of the Baloch community in America, he extended his gratitude to PM Modi for the stance India has taken regarding the plight of the Baloch in Pakistan since 2016.

"Your mention of Balochistan in your speech at the Red Fort was welcomed by the Baloch worldwide as a sign of moral support for a nation occupied, subjugated, and terrorised by Pakistan. It gave great hope to my Baloch people," the letter mentioned.

"I laud your wise decision of holding the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance and making it clear to the jihadist generals of Pakistan that blood and water cannot flow together," it added.

He mentioned that since Pakistan's occupation of Balochistan in 1948, the Baloch people have been severely oppressed by the machinery of the rogue state.

Chand slammed the jihadist Pakistani Army for the countless forcible disappearances and killings of the people of Balochistan.

He described the abuses as a part of the strategy adopted by Islamabad to suppress the freedom struggle movement of Balochistan, which the people have been waging since Pakistan forcibly annexed Balochistan.

The Baloch leader had requested the Indian government to adopt a policy of political, moral, and diplomatic support for the Baloch national resistance against the occupation of Pakistan.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 13 : The office of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has dismissed as "baseless propaganda" the allegation that it is imposing restrictions on media freedom in the state, insisting that no such move has ever been made.

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 13 (IANS) The office of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has dismissed as "baseless propaganda" the allegation that it is imposing restrictions on media freedom in the state, insisting that no such move has ever been made.

In a statement issued here on Wednesday, it said the clarification is in the backdrop of controversy over a confidential World Bank communication regarding the 'Kera' project being leaked to the press.

The government said it has ordered an inquiry to determine how a document of such highly confidential nature was leaked and published, stressing that such breaches can damage the state's credibility with international financial institutions.

"This investigation is not an action against journalists, but a normal administrative process to identify lapses within official circles," read the statement.

"If officials are found to have erred, it is our duty to investigate and hold them accountable," added the statement.

The government condemned attempts to portray the probe as an anti-media measure, calling it deliberate misinformation.

"Creating an impression that journalists will be summoned as part of the fact-finding process is wrong," it said, adding that Kerala's political awareness and high media literacy ensure that false news rarely influences public opinion.

The statement accused certain media outlets of continuing "a pattern of false campaigns" against the state leadership, ministers, and political figures, even after misleading reports are disproved with evidence.

It, however, reiterated that suppression or intimidation of the press is not the state's policy.

Referring to India's troubled press history, including censorship during the Emergency, the government stressed that it opposes such measures and is committed to protecting the freedom and rights of the media "in every sense".

At the same time, it vowed to expose those who deliberately spread fake news to mislead the public or harm the government's reputation.

Maintaining good relations with the media is the state government's stated approach, the statement said, but it warned that "malicious leaks aimed at damaging institutional trust" would not be tolerated.

The government condemned efforts to compare Kerala to regions where media freedom is genuinely under threat, calling such comparisons "unfortunate and unacceptable".

"We repeat and reaffirm, no move against press freedom will be permitted in Kerala," the statement concluded.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Supreme Court has overturned the election of the Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat Buana Lakhu in Haryana's Panipat district after a court-monitored recount found the appellant securing the highest number of votes.

New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) The Supreme Court has overturned the election of the Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat Buana Lakhu in Haryanaas Panipat district after a court-monitored recount found the appellant securing the highest number of votes.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta, and N.K. Singh ordered the Deputy Commissioner-cum-Election Officer, Panipat, to issue a notification within two days declaring the appellant, Mohit Kumar, elected, and allowing him to assume office immediately.

The election for the Sarpanchas post was held on November 2, 2022, in which the respondent, Kuldeep Singh, was declared elected. Mohit Kumar challenged the result before the Additional Civil Judge (Senior Division)- cum-Election Tribunal, which, on April 22, 2025, found grounds for recounting the votes at a booth. However, the Punjab and Haryana High Court overturned that decision on July 1, prompting Mohit Kumar to appeal to the apex court.

In an order passed on July 31, the Justice Kant-led Bench directed the District Election Officer to produce all the EVMs before the Registrar of the Supreme Court.

"The nominated Registrar shall recount the votes, not only of the disputed booth but of all the booths. The recounting shall be duly video-graphed. [T]he recount result shall be duly signed by the learned Registrar, the petitioner and the respondent no.1 or their authorised representative as well as the learned assisting counsel," it ordered.

Pursuant to the top courtas directive, the OSD (Registrar) recounted the votes from all booths, with the final tally showing Mohit Kumar securing 1,051 votes against Kuldeep Singhas 1,000.

Accepting the recount, the Justice Surya Kant-Bench observed: "There being prima facie no reason to doubt the Report submitted by the OSD (Registrar) of this Court, especially when the entire recounting has been duly videographed and its result is signed by the representatives of the parties, we are satisfied that the appellant deserves to be declared as the elected Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat, Buana Lakhu Village, District Panipat, Haryana."

However, in the interest of justice, the apex court allowed the parties to agitate the issues, if any, left to be adjudicated by the Election Tribunal, saying that "the Election Tribunala shall accept the Report of the OSD (Registrar) of this Court as the final and conclusive report so far as the result of recounting of votes is concerned."

It clarified that the direction to declare the appellant as the elected Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat Buana Lakhu in Panipat would remain subject to the final judgment of the Election Tribunal.

Disposing of the appeal along with all pending applications, the Supreme Court set aside the impugned Punjab and Haryana High Court judgment, as the recounting of votes had been completed following its order.
Chennai, Aug 13 : AIADMK general secretary and Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu Assembly Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Wednesday expressed shock over the explosion of what he described as a "country-made bomb" allegedly brought in by students of the Government Polytechnic College in Thoothukudi.

Chennai, Aug 13 (IANS) AIADMK general secretary and Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu Assembly Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Wednesday expressed shock over the explosion of what he described as a "country-made bomb" allegedly brought in by students of the Government Polytechnic College in Thoothukudi.

He accused the DMK regime of presiding over a deteriorating law and order situation and urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to "step out of his denial zone" and respond to questions on public safety.

The incident occurred on Tuesday during the lunch break when two first-year Diploma (Mechanical) students -- M. Mathavan (16) of P&T Colony and M. Murali Karthick (16) of Indra Nagar, Thoothukudi -- allegedly set off firecrackers inside their classroom.

According to sources, the crackers were of the type used for fishing in ponds. Mathavan sustained severe injuries to his right hand, while Murali suffered injuries to his right eye. Both were admitted to the Thoothukudi Medical College Hospital.

While Palaniswami alleged that the blast involved a "country-made bomb" and reflected a collapse in campus security, Thoothukudi Superintendent of Police Albert John clarified that the explosion was caused only by firecrackers.

He appealed to the public not to spread false or misleading information about the incident.

In a strongly worded social media statement, the AIADMK leader drew parallels with recent violent incidents involving students.

"From knife fights among school children to machetes in school bags, and now a bomb explosion in a government college -- this is the grim reality in Tamil Nadu today," he said.

He contrasted the present situation with what he called the "educationally progressive" image of the state under the previous AIADMK regime, claiming it was now "drifting under the so-called Stalin-model governance."

Palaniswami criticised what he alleged was the DMK government's tendency to downplay such incidents as "personal issues" and called it shameful.

"The presence of deadly weapons in an educational institution reflects a collapse in governance. Why is there hesitation when questions come from the people?" he asked, accusing the Chief Minister of remaining silent when confronted with uncomfortable queries on law and order.

The AIADMK leader demanded that the state provide immediate medical care for the injured students and conduct a thorough probe into the blast.

He also called for stringent legal action against those responsible and measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

"It is time to reclaim the state from a regime that has allowed weapons and explosives to enter our institutions," Palaniswami said, warning that public confidence in the government's ability to maintain safety was rapidly eroding.
Chennai, Aug 13 : A dramatic incident unfolded at the 32nd convocation of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (MSU) in Tirunelveli on Wednesday, when a PhD graduate refused to receive her degree from Tamil Nadu Governor and University Chancellor R.N. Ravi, and instead accepted it from the Vice-Chancellor.

The convocation ceremony, attended by more than 650 graduates, was proceeding as scheduled, with each recipient going up to the Governor to collect their degree and exchange greetings.

However, when it was the turn of research scholar Jean Joseph, hailing from Nagercoil, she walked past the Governor without acknowledging him and went directly to Vice-Chancellor N. Chandrasekar, from whom she accepted her degree.

The unusual move drew murmurs among the attendees, with both officials on stage and students in the audience watching in surprise.

Governor Ravi maintained composure as the student bypassed him.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Jean Joseph explained her decision, saying, "Governor R.N. Ravi has been acting against the interests of Tamil Nadu and Tamils. I did not want to receive my degree from him."

Her statement quickly went viral, adding fuel to ongoing political tensions between the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor over various issues.

According to reports, Jean Joseph is the wife of M. Rajan, Deputy Secretary of the DMK's Nagercoil town unit.

Political observers have linked her action to the broader political standoff between the ruling DMK and the Governor, which has seen repeated confrontations over policy matters, university appointments, and the Governoras public remarks.

The incident has sparked sharp debate on social media. Supporters of her action praised it as a bold expression of dissent against what they see as the Governor's overreach, while critics argued that a university convocation was not the appropriate platform for political protest.

University authorities have so far not issued an official statement on the matter.

The Governor's office also declined to comment. This is not the first time Governor Ravi has faced visible protests in public forums.

In recent months, his presence at events in Tamil Nadu has been met with boycotts and symbolic demonstrations by sections of students and political groups aligned with the state government.

As videos of the convocation moment circulate widely online, the episode has once again underlined how political tensions in Tamil Nadu are spilling over into academic and ceremonial spaces.
London, Aug 13 : The western media's reluctance to clearly report India's superior performance during Operation Sindoor showcases a broader tendency in its journalism to avoid acknowledging India's increasing military sophistication, a leading British publication cited on Wednesday.

In response to the heinous April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, India had launched its decisive Operation Sindoor on May 7, targetting terror bases in Pakistan in one of the most comprehensive military actions since the 1971 war.

Satellite imagery and independent analysis by several analysts confirmed the extensive damage inflicted on Pakistani terror and defence infrastructure, demonstrating Indiaas enhanced precision strike capabilities and the conventional disparity in operational effectiveness between the two nations.

However, despite satellite evidence showcasing India's operational success and Pakistan's limited response capabilities, Western media reporting has shown false equivalency, UK-based newspaper for British Asians, Asian Lite said in a report.

"Major media outlets consistently reported the conflict as a mutual exchange of hostilities and not admitting the wide difference in military effectiveness of two nations. The reluctance of Western media to report about Indiaas superior performance showcases broader tendency in Western journalism to avoid acknowledging Indiaas growing military sophistication. This approach manifests in downplaying Indiaas technological advancement, overemphasising Pakistani claims without verifying them, and maintaining artificial balance in reporting that lacks factual reality," it stated.

India targeted Pakistani military installations across six airfields and the precision of these strikes were noteworthy, with Indian forces showcasing accuracy in targetting particular military assets while minimising collateral damage. Satellite evidence analysed by several leading US outlets had showcased the substantial damage inflicted upon Pakistani military infrastructure.

Indian forces targetted aircraft hangars with precision munitions at Bholari air base near Karachi. Two mobile control centres suffered significant damage at Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, located merely 15 miles from Pakistanas Army headquarters and close to facilities responsible for safeguarding Pakistanas nuclear arsenal.

The runway of Sargodha air base in Punjab Province was hit at multiple sections, while Rahim Yar Khan air base was made non-operational, as acknowledged by the Pakistani authorities through official notices. India's target selection reflected adequate intelligence capabilities and strategic planning, according to the report.

Pakistan's offensive and defence air capabilities were degraded as India targeted its critical infrastructure including hangars, runways, radar installations, and command centers. India's strikes at Pasrur radar installations and Sialkot aviation base using precision munitions showcased its capability to neutralize Pakistanas early warning systems. While Pakistani officials claimed to have hit Indian military facilities from May 8-10. However, satellite imagery has not been able to showcase the claims made by Pakistani officials.

"Western media often emphasised civilian casualties claimed by Pakistan while ignoring the precision of Indian strikes that particularly targetted military infrastructure. This selective emphasis while reporting creates a distorted narrative that is unable to reveal actual details regarding the operation. This reporting by Western Media is different to how they report other military operations, where precision strikes and technological superiority are appreciated rather than understated. This double standard of Western media demonstrates underlying biases that influence how military capabilities and strategic responses of India are reported to the international public," the Asian Lite report detailed.

"Western sympathy towards Pakistan is often rooted in concerns regarding regional stability, increasingly showcases a strategic miscalculation considering Pakistanas deepening alignment with China, with projects like Belt and Road Initiative, its hosting of Chinese naval facilities at Gwadar Port, and Beijingas substantial military assistance to Islamabad. The Western media, through this approach, inadvertently strengthened a key Chinese ally that directly challenges Western interests in the Indo-Pacific," it added.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Amid increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medicine, a new study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology journal, showed that doctors regularly performing AI-assisted colonoscopies may lose their ability to detect precancerous growths (adenomas) in the colon without AI assistance.

Colonoscopy, typically performed by an endoscopist, enables the detection and removal of adenomas, leading to the prevention of bowel cancer.

Numerous trials have shown that the use of AI to assist colonoscopies increases the detection of adenomas, generating much enthusiasm for the technology.

However, there is a lack of research into how continuous use of AI affects endoscopist skills, with suggestions that it could be either positive, by training clinicians, or negative, leading to a reduction in skills.

"To our knowledge, this is the first study to suggest a negative impact of regular AI use on healthcare professionals' ability to complete a patient-relevant task in medicine of any kind. Our results are concerning, given that the adoption of AI in medicine is rapidly spreading," said Dr Marcin Romanczyk, Academy of Silesia from Poland.

The study took place at four colonoscopy centres in Poland between September 2021 and March 2022.

A total of 1,443 colonoscopies were conducted without AI; 795 before the introduction of regular AI use and 648 after AI implementation. The colonoscopies were performed by 19 experienced endoscopists who had conducted over 2,000 colonoscopies each.

The average rate of adenoma detection at non-AI-assisted colonoscopies significantly decreased from 28.4 per cent (226/795) before AI exposure to 22.4 per cent (145/648) after AI exposure, corresponding to a 20 per cent relative and 6 per cent absolute reduction in adenoma detection rate.

In the AI-assisted colonoscopies, there was a 25.3 per cent (186/734) adenoma detection rate.

The team also acknowledged some limitations, including that the observational nature of the study means that factors other than the implementation of AI use may have influenced the findings.

Romanczyk called for more research into the impact of AI on health professionals' skills across different medical fields.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : India has surpassed China to emerge as the leading supplier of smartphones to the United States, driven by the government's 'Make in India' initiative, Apple's relocation of its operations to India, and US importers frontloading their inventory amid tariff uncertainties.

Analysts say that the US hiking tariffs on India has led vendors to front-load inventory, which means buying far more inventory than usual and changing their sourcing plans. Further, government support since 2017 through the Make In India program and strategic integration into global value chains (GVCs) due to the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme drove Indian success.

The total volume of "Made-in-India" smartphones grew 240 per cent YoY. Apple has scaled up its production capacity in India over the last several years and has dedicated most of its export capacity in the country to supply the US market so far in 2025.

India's shipments to the US account for approximately 44 per cent of all its smartphone imports, up from 13 per cent last year. Meanwhile, China's share of smartphone exports to the US declined to 25 per cent. China accounted for 61 per cent of smartphones exported to the US in the second quarter of 2024.

India is now the world's third-largest exporter of mobile phones, clocking $20.5 billion (CY2024) worth of exports. Alongside China and Vietnam, India is now a major player in global electronics manufacturing, with companies shifting production to diversify supply chains.

Trump imposed a 50 per cent tariff on India and a 30 per cent tariff on China, while the two countries negotiated a trade deal, and a 20 per cent tariff on Vietnam. Most of the decline in US smartphone shipments assembled in China has been picked up by India, mainly due to Apple's 'China Plus One' strategy.

India now boasts 300 mobile manufacturing units, a significant increase from just two in 2014. In FY14, 26 per cent of mobile phones sold in India were locally made, which has surged to 99.2 per cent being manufactured domestically, according to government data.

Though Apple has started manufacturing and assembling Pro models of the iPhone 16 series in India, the tech giant is still dependent on established manufacturing bases in China for their scaled supply for Pro models.

Samsung and Motorola have also increased their share of US-targeted supply from India, although their shifts are significantly slower and smaller in scale than Apple's.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : India and Singapore on Wednesday held the third Ministerial Roundtable in New Delhi, discussing bilateral cooperation between two nations under the six pillars of digitalisation, skill development, sustainability, healthcare, connectivity and advanced manufacturing.

For the third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR), the Indian side was represented by the External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Home Affairs K Shanmugam, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Digital Development and Information Minister Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow led the Singaporean side.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar thanked Singaporean ministers for their commitment to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between two nations. He stated that ISMR interacted with India Singapore Business Roundtable and termed the synergy between government and industry as a key to unlock next phase of bilateral ties.

"Delighted to attend the 3rd India Singapore Ministerial Roundtable ISMR in New Delhi. Thank DPM Gan Kim Yong, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Home Affairs K Shanmugam, FM Vivian Bala, Digital Development and Information Minister Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow for their commitment to strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The ISMR had a productive interaction with the India Singapore Business Roundtable ISBR delegation. Synergy between Government and Industry is key to the unlocking next phase of India-Singapore ties," Jaishankar posted on X after the meeting.

On Tuesday, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal extended a warm welcome to Singapore's Ministerial delegation as they arrived to attend the third ISMR in New Delhi. In a post on X, Jaiswal stated, "A warm welcome to DPM Mr. Gan Kim Yong, FM Vivian Bala and the Ministerial delegation from Singapore as they arrive in New Delhi for the 3rd India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR). ISMR, a unique mechanism, continues to strengthen the India-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."

The India-Singapore ties were elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore in September 2024. With shared history, long tradition of friendship based on trust and mutual respect, and extensive cooperation across several sectors, the cooperation between two nations has deepened and diversified over the years.

Envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ISMR is a unique mechanism for setting a new agenda for Indiaa"Singapore cooperation. Its inaugural meeting was held in New Delhi in September 2022 and the second meeting was held in Singapore in August 2024.
This story was originally published on ESG Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily ESG Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

More than half of S&P 100 companies adjusted how they communicated diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in their annual securities filings this year compared to 2024, according to a new report by The Conference Board.

Among S&P 500 companies, the use of the acronym DEI dropped by 68% compared to 2024, according to the report. Twenty-one percent of companies reduced or removed DEI-related metrics and targets.

While firms scaled back DEI language and commitments, 79% percent of S&P 500 firms disclosed board committee oversight of DEI, up from 72%, according to the report. For Russell 3000 companies, this figure jumped from 48.4% to 86.8%. Rather than simply abandoning DEI, this suggests that companies are being more cautious about external messaging while integrating DEI into governance to make it more legally defensible, according to the report.

Dive Insight:

Companies have been rolling back their DEI programs since the Supreme Courts 2023 decision outlawing affirmative action in higher education.

After President Donald Trumps reelection, McDonalds, Meta, a few banks and others preemptively adjusted policies in anticipation of backlash. When a January 2025 executive order directed heads of agencies to target private sector DEI, another wave of major companies  including Target, BlackRock and even law firms  dropped their DEI goals, a trend that continues. A July 23 report by Resume.org reported that 20% of companies have scrapped their DEI programs since Trumps reelection.

The Conference Board report, based on 2025 Form-10K filings, largely aligns with the individual headlines. More companies in 2025 have limited disclosures of workforce or leadership diversity. The share of S&P 500 companies that disclosed data on women in management dropped from 71.2% in 2024 to 55.1% in 2025, and the share that disclosed the total number of female board members dropped from 90.5% to 60.4%.

Just 2.5% of companies did not disclose any information about board racial diversity in 2024, but that number jumped to 33.9% this year. Among Russell 3000 companies, that figure leaped from 14.1% to 54.7%.

In recent years, some U.S. public companies have linked executive compensation to DEI-related goals. In 2024, 68% of S&P 500 companies and 41.6% of Russell 3000 companies disclosed in their annual reports that they linked these metrics. In 2025, this figure dropped to 35.3% for S&P 500 companies and 18.7% for Russell 3000 companies.
Seoul, Aug 13 : South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will visit Japan from August 23-24 for summit talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to discuss ways to advance bilateral relations and trilateral partnership with the United States, the presidential office said on Wednesday.

Lee will make a two-day visit to Japan before travelling to Washington for his first summit with US President Donald Trump on August 25.

The visit will be Lee's first trip to Japan since taking office in early June and his second in-person meeting with Ishiba, following their talks on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in Canada in June.

"The leaders will seek to solidify the foundation for future-oriented cooperation between the two countries, while also discussing ways to strengthen Korea-Japan and Korea-US-Japan cooperation, regional peace and stability, and other regional and global issues," presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said in a briefing.

"We hope this visit to Japan will further deepen their personal bonds and trust," she added.

Lee's decision to stop in Japan before visiting the US is seen as unusual, as previous South Korean Presidents have typically chosen Washington as their first destination for diplomatic talks.

In their previous meeting, Lee and Ishiba agreed to build future-oriented relations, continue "shuttle diplomacy," or regular exchanges between leaders, and bolster trilateral cooperation with the US.

Lee's pursuit of "pragmatic diplomacy" is expected to be put to the test as his visit coincides with both the 60th anniversary of the normalisation of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan, and the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule.

Lee has pledged to pursue a "two-track" policy of separating historical disputes from future-oriented cooperation, as Seoul and Tokyo share a consensus on the need to step up cooperation amid the changing economic and security environment.

As key Asian security allies of the US and major economic powers, both countries face rising trade uncertainties from the Trump administration's steep tariffs and mounting security threats from North Korea's growing ties with Russia.

Lee is expected to discuss Washington's trade policies with Ishiba ahead of his planned talks with Trump, given that both nations are major exporters to the US market.

The US recently began imposing 15 per cent tariffs on goods from South Korea and Japan, including automobiles, after the two Asian nations separately reached trade deals involving large investment packages and US energy purchases.

Asked whether Seoul's import restrictions on Japanese seafood would be discussed at the summit, the presidential spokesperson said Seoul and Tokyo have been arranging agenda items, including the issue, Yonhap news agency reported.

"Easing restrictions on seafood imports is more of a concern for Japan than for us," Kang said. "We will respond appropriately based on our basic position. Since our top priority is public health, this issue is currently under coordination."

South Korea banned all seafood imports from eight Japanese prefectures near Fukushima in 2013 over concerns about radiation following the 2011 nuclear meltdown and has vowed to maintain the curbs until public concerns are fully addressed.

With Lee's visits to the US and Japan now confirmed, the presidential office said it would scrap its earlier plans to send special envoys to the two countries.
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 13 : In an unprecedented move, the Supreme Court on Wednesday intervened in the ongoing dispute over the appointment of Vice-Chancellors at the A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and the Kerala Digital University in Kerala.

The apex court directed both the Kerala government and Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar, who is also the Chancellor of state universities, to submit separate panels of four names each.

The court then announced that it will constitute the Search Committees to identify suitable candidates for the posts after receiving the two lists.

Then these panels will be scrutinised, along with a representative from the University Grants Commission (UGC), before the court finalises the composition of the Search Committees.

During the hearing, the bench questioned the Governor on the reasons for the prolonged stalemate in forming the committees, which has delayed the appointment of permanent VCs.

It also instructed the state not to escalate the dispute over the appointment of temporary VCs.

State Higher Education Minister Dr R.Bindhu claimed that the apex court directive is a clear victory for the state, and they will abide by what the apex court has directed.

The intervention comes amid a deadlock between the state government and the Governor.

While the state government argued that under the University Act, it has the authority to propose names, the Governor insisted that appointments must follow UGC regulations.

The disagreement had left both universities functioning under temporary leadership for months.

Seeking to break the impasse, the Supreme Court stressed the need for timely appointments in the interest of both institutions. It also urged both sides to resolve their differences through discussions rather than confrontation.

The state had earlier demanded that the Governoras unilateral appointments of temporary VCs be annulled.

However, the court made it clear that this dispute should not be pursued further, and the focus should remain on completing the permanent appointments.

The case will be taken up again on Wednesday, by which time both the government and the Governor are expected to submit their respective panels.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Telangana government to restore the lost green cover of the Kancha Gachibowli area near the Hyderabad Central University.

A bench of Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran gave the state government six weeks to submit a revised plan for the development of 400-acre land with safeguards for forests, wildlife, and lakes.

The apex court was hearing a suo motu case initiated in April in the wake of the large-scale felling of trees on the land near the university.

As the state government said that all tree-cutting actions have been halted, the bench appreciated the Telangana government's submission, while making it clear that it is not against development, but development has to be sustainable.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing on behalf of the Telangana government, informed the apex court that, in compliance with earlier directives, all tree-cutting actions have been halted.

The bench was also told that the government is looking into the larger picture of how to ensure that its forests and lakes are not harmed in the process of development.

The state submitted that it is looking at the matter in a holistic manner and is attempting to balance the interests of the environment and wildlife with development.

When Singhvi urged the court to give the state six to eight weeks to place its proposal on record, the court agreed to the request. The Chief Justice told Singhvi that if the state comes up with a good proposal, the court will withdraw the proceedings against it. He, however, made it clear that the state should restore the destroyed forest.

The bench also observed that while carrying out development activities, the interest of the environment and wildlife has to be taken care of by ensuring mitigating and compensatory measures.

The Supreme Court had initiated suo moto proceedings while taking serious note of the felling of trees on the land in Kancha Gachibowli village.

The Telangana government had undertaken tree-cutting as part of a plan to auction the land through the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) to develop IT infrastructure.

Students of the adjoining Hyderabad Central University and green activists had staged protests, demanding a halt to the deforestation in an eco-sensitive zone, which serves as the "lungs" of Hyderabad city.

On April 3, the Supreme Court passed an interim order staying further tree-felling. The state was also asked to clarify whether the requisite permission was obtained for felling the trees.

The bench directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) constituted to assist the Supreme Court in complex environmental matters, to personally visit the site and submit a report.

On April 16, the Court observed that the extent of destruction caused in 100 acres showed an alarming picture and ordered a status quo on the land. It also remarked that it would go out of its way to protect the environment and ecology.

In May, the apex court gave Telangana a choice between restoring the destroyed forest or facing the prospect of its Chief Secretary and "half a dozen officials" being sent to a "temporary prison".

It had ordered the state to prepare a plan to restore the destroyed forest.
Bhopal, Aug 13 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, on Wednesday, hoisted the national flag at his official residence in Bhopal and took a selfie under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, government officials said.

After hoisting the 'Tiranga' (Tricolour), Chief Minister Yadav said that the Madhya Pradesh government has made an elaborate plan to celebrate the Independence Day.

He added that he has instructed district administrations to ensure that not a single home is left without hoisting the national flag on the occasion of the Independence Day.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 'Har Ghar Tiranga' has become a symbol of pride and honour for every citizen today," Chief Minister Yadav said.

Talking to media persons, he also added that due to success of 'Operation Sindoor', the enthusiasm of patriotism is at its peak across the country and people are extending support to PM Modi.

He also appealed to the citizens of Madhya Pradesh to participate in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign by hoisting a national flag with pride at their homes to support PM Modi.

Under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, police and district administrations across Madhya Pradesh have started organising programmes, with participation of local citizens and school children.

Besides district- and block-level programmes, 'Tiranga Yatras' (flag march) are being organised in different parts of the state.

Chief Minister Yadav had attended the Tiranga Yatra in Gwalior on Tuesday, and on Wednesday he will participate in Indore.

Other senior BJP leaders, including Union Ministers, have also started participating in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign in their respective Lok Sabha constituencies.

For instance, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Wednesday, arrived in Vidisha, his Lok Sabha constituency, to launch the Tiranga Yatra.

Before the launch of the Tiranga and Swadeshi Yatras, he celebrated Raksha Bandhan with women from self-help groups at the Rabindranath Tagore Bhavan.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board's directive mandating the hoisting of the national flag at the main gates of all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs across the state on Independence Day has sparked a wave of mixed reactions, as some political leaders slammed the move as an "imposition."

On Monday, Waqf Board Chairman Salim Raj issued a circular instructing mutawallis (caretakers of Waqf properties) to ensure that the Tricolour is unfurled in the presence of imams and mosque committee members on August 15.

The directive emphasises that the national flag is "a symbol of honour and pride" with no connection to religion.

However, the decision drew sharp criticism from Congress MP Tariq Anwar and Maharashtra Samajwadi Party chief Abu Azmi.

Speaking to IANS, Anwar said, "I believe all this is nonsense. In our country, there is no tradition of hoisting the national flag at religious sites. People hoist the flag out of their own will; it cannot be done by imposing pressure or restrictions."

Abu Azmi told IANS, "Get his DNA test done, see who he is. Such people are sycophants. Ulemas died fighting for freedom and sacrificed so much. These people were the ones who used to lick the feet of the British, just want to divide the nation."

Congress leader Husain Dalwai, however, said that even though there is no problem with hoisting the Tricolour at mosques and madrasas, no one gave the Chhattisgarh Waqf Chairman the authority to issue an order regarding it.

"In many places, the Tricolour is already hoisted at mosques and madrasas, and it should indeed be hoisted. But who gave them the authority to issue such an order about where the flag should be hoisted and where it should not?" Dalwai told IANS.

He also claimed that the Rashtra Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP did not use to hoist the national flag at their offices for years.

"First, an order should be issued for the RSS, asking it to hoist the Tricolour at its headquarters. For years, neither at the RSS offices, nor at the BJP headquarters, the Tricolour was hoisted," he said.

However, several Muslim organisations praised the initiative.

Javed Memon, President of Odisha's Kanker Anjuman Islamia Committee, said, "We express our gratitude to Salim Raj for guiding us with this excellent initiative. It is a proud moment for us."

Another Anjuman Islamia Committee member, Gaffar Memon, added, "Previously, the flag hoisting used to take place only at Sanjay Nagar Madrasa, but this time we have the opportunity to celebrate Independence Day with the entire community. We thank the government and Salim Raj for this."

According to Salim Raj, since Independence Day is a national festival and not a religious one, the order comes in response to objections raised in some quarters regarding flag hoisting at religious sites.

"Due to the actions of a few fundamentalists, the entire Muslim community is viewed with suspicion. This initiative is meant to change that narrative," he said.

The Waqf Board says the move is aimed at promoting patriotism and communal harmony, particularly in light of recent events that have negatively affected the Muslim community's public image.

To ensure implementation, mosque committees have been instructed to submit photographs or video footage of the flag-hoisting ceremonies through a dedicated online portal or WhatsApp group within 30 minutes of the event.
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Capital markets regulator SEBI has banned Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Ltd's former Chairman and Managing Director Kapil Wadhawan, ex-director Dheeraj Wadhawan, and four others from the stock markets for up to five years and slapped a penalty of Rs 120 crore on them for diverting funds and fabricating books.

They have also been barred from holding any key position in a listed company for up to five years.

According to the SEBI investigation, the main culprits involved in the fraudulent scheme were Kapil Wadhawan and his brother Dheeraj, who have been fined Rs 27 crore each. Rakesh Wadhawan, who was Non-Executive Chairman, and Sarang Wadhawan, a former Non-Executive Director, were also involved through their roles on DHFL's board and face penalties of Rs 20.75 crore each. Besides, Harshil Mehta, who was Joint Managing Director & CEO and Santosh Sharma, a former CFO of the company, have been fined Rs 11.75 crore and Rs 12.75 crore, respectively.

The SEBI has stated in its order that since 2006, DHFL, along with its promoters, directors, and key managerial personnel, have engaged and participated in an "egregiously fraudulent scheme" to divert funds to "Bandra Book Entities" (BBEs) linked to the promoters. DHFL's loans to BBEs rose to a staggering Rs 14,040.5 crore by March 31, 2019.

The order states that the promoters issued huge unsecured loans to these entities despite the fact that they did not have any assets or business. These loans were also falsely recorded as retail housing loans.

The investigation has found that the modus operandi involved was to first extend large unsecured loans to these BBEs, even though they had no net worth, assets, or cash flows to justify such exposure. Second, all standard loan appraisal processes were deliberately bypassed.

Third, these weak intercorporate loans to related parties were misrepresented as retail housing loans, creating a false impression of the company's financial health for investors and other stakeholders.

"To effect this elaborate deception, a fake virtual branch ('Bandra branch') and previously closed retail loan accounts were employed, alongside three different accounting software, camouflaging the BBE loans as retail housing loans. In the initial years, well over 30 per cent of all loans of DHFL were to these BBEs," the SEBI noted.

Despite the BBEs not making interest or principal payments, DHFL booked fictitious interest income, which allowed it to show increasing profits instead of losses between FY 2007-08 and FY 2015-16. These financials misled shareholders and distorted DHFL's share price.

The investigation has revealed that loans worth Rs 5,662.44 crore were given to 39 BBEs, and later 40 per cent of this amount was passed on to 48 other entities connected to the promoters.

SEBI has prohibited Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan from the securities markets for five years, while Rakesh and Sarang Wadhawan face a four-year ban; and Mehta and Sharma have been prohibited for three years.

During these periods, they cannot access the securities market, deal in securities in any manner, or hold any role such as director or key managerial personnel in listed companies, registered intermediaries, or public companies.
Chennai, Aug 13 : The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) have announced that their legislators will boycott the Independence Day tea party hosted by Governor R.N. Ravi at Raj Bhavan in Chennai.

TNCC president K. Selvaperunthagai, in a brief statement on Wednesday, said the decision was a mark of protest against what the party termed the Governor's "anti-Tamil Nadu activities" and also against the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar.

He alleged that the revision process raised concerns about fairness and transparency.

"We also strongly condemn the Tamil Nadu Governor's refusal to give assent to the Bill passed by the State Assembly to establish a university in Kumbakonam named after former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. Instead of approving it, he chose to send it to the President," Selvaperunthagai said.

The TNCC leader recalled that in 2024, too, the party had boycotted the Governor's tea party, accusing him of persistently obstructing the functioning of the democratically elected State government.

He claimed that the Governor's recent actions had once again undermined the will of the Assembly and the people.

Viduthugai Chirathaigal Katchi (VCK) founder and Lok Sabha MP Thol. Thirumavalavan also confirmed that his party would not participate in the Raj Bhavan event.

In a statement, he said the Governor's office had extended an invitation, but the party had decided to decline it in solidarity with other opposition forces in Tamil Nadu.

The boycott adds to the continuing strain in relations between the Governor and opposition parties in the State, many of whom have accused him of overstepping his constitutional role.

The refusal to approve key Bills, delays in granting assent to legislation, and perceived political overreach have been recurring flashpoints in the political discourse.

The tea party, traditionally held on the evening of August 15, is usually attended by ministers, legislators, senior officials, and members of the judiciary.

The absence of major opposition parties this year is expected to be a significant political statement, further reflecting the widening rift between Raj Bhavan and a section of Tamil Nadu's political establishment.
Jaipur, Aug 13 : Rajasthan Congress, led by its President Govind Singh Dotasra, on Wednesday organised a 'Vote Chor - Gaddi Chhod' foot march from the party headquarters to Shaheed Smarak in Jaipur, alleging that the BJP is trying to suppress the issue of vote theft after Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi exposed "large-scale" electoral fraud in the country.

Jaipur, Aug 13 (IANS) Rajasthan Congress, led by its President Govind Singh Dotasra, on Wednesday organised a 'Vote Chor - Gaddi Chhod' foot march from the party headquarters to Shaheed Smarak in Jaipur, alleging that the BJP is trying to suppress the issue of vote theft after Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi exposed "large-scale" electoral fraud in the country.

The march was attended by former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, AICC General Secretary Sachin Pilot, Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully, Congress MLAs, MLA candidates, PCC officials, and a large number of party workers and leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Dotasra said LoP Rahul Gandhi's revelations proved that the BJP-led Central government was formed through fraudulent votes.

"The slogan 'Vote Chor  Gaddi Chhod' is echoing across the nation. The BJP is attacking democracy on two fronts - by gaining power through fake votes and by deleting lakhs of opposition voters from the rolls under the guise of SIR," he alleged.

He claimed that several seats in Rajasthan were affected by vote theft and accused the Election Commission of refusing to provide the Congress with the digital voter list despite repeated requests.

"Our leaders are determined to expose this fraud in Rajasthan. It will soon be clear that LoP Rahul Gandhi's allegations are entirely correct," Dotasra said.

Announcing a massive public movement against vote theft, Dotasra informed that on August 14 at 8 PM, District Congress Committees will hold a 'Vote Chor  Gaddi Chhod' candle march at all district headquarters, followed by public awareness campaigns.

He accused BJP leaders of acting like dictators, violating the Constitution, and using "Saam-Daam-Dand-Bhed" to keep the opposition from power.

"We will take this campaign to every village and hamlet of the state," he declared.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said he joined the march because the entire country is waking up against the alleged #VoteChori by the Election Commission in favour of the BJP.

Speaking to the media, Sachin Pilot said that instead of the ECI answering the charges, the BJP is defending them.

"They are demanding an affidavit from LoP Rahul Gandhi. The government should stay away from this. The ECI has a moral and constitutional duty to ensure every vote is genuine. We have only asked for an investigation, but they are refusing," he said.

Pilot alleged that in some constituencies, thousands of votes had been altered, fake names and addresses added, and genuine voters deleted.

He also questioned why a member was removed from the process, why voter lists were withheld, and why CCTV footage was being destroyed, calling it an attempt to erase evidence.

"When Rahul Gandhi exposed the theft, the ECI remained silent while the BJP defended it. What right does the BJP have? The ECI is the soul of democracy and must protect it. Instead, notices are issued, affidavits demanded, MPs detained, and leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge arrested," Pilot said.

He reiterated that Congress has presented irregularities with evidence.

"Silence from the ECI means there is something to hide. This campaign is not a one-day protest but a long struggle. Tomorrow, there will be candle marches and nationwide protests. This is about protecting India's democracy. Wins and losses happen in elections, but deleting lakhs of genuine votes and compromising the ECI's independence is a grave threat to the nation," he concluded.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The arrest of notorious arms supplier Salim Pistol is a major shot in the arm for the Indian security agencies. Pistol, who was in Nepal, was arrested and brought to New Delhi in a joint operation by the Delhi Police Special Cell, Indian Intelligence agencies, and Nepal police.

The arrest of Salim Pistol, originally known as Sheikh Salim, will deal a major blow to the various gangster networks in the country. He was one of the key suppliers of arms to various gangster networks in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab, just to name a few.

The arrest is very crucial, especially in the backdrop of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) probing a massive gangster-terror network that is threatening internal security to a large extent.

Pistol enjoyed the backing of the ISI and worked on the instructions of Dawood Ibrahim, a dossier on him states. He would pick up the arms from Pakistan and then smuggle them into India before they made their way to various gangster networks.

Investigations had found that he was one of the biggest suppliers of arms to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. His other big client was Hashim Baba, a big-time gangster from Northeast Delhi. The police and the Intelligence agencies would interrogate Salim thoroughly to get leads on several cases.

He is said to be a mentor to the killers of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moosewala. His name had also cropped up in the murder of Maharashtra politician Baba Siddiqui. However, the most important leads he would be able to provide are into the gangster-terror nexus case that the NIA has been probing.

This nexus has its bosses in Pakistan and Canada. Together, they direct gangsters to carry out targeted killings and even terror attacks. This is where Salim Pistol would come in and provide the required arms to these gangsters.

During the investigations into these cases, the security agencies found that the gangsters were using sophisticated weapons. It was Salim who had supplied them with the Zigana, a Turkish-made pistol. These pistols were smuggled into India from Pakistan by Salim and his men.

Salim had also used drones to deliver these pistols into India. Once they were smuggled in from Pakistan, they would be dismantled and hidden in the compartments of vehicles. Once smuggled, the gangsters would reassemble them. These pistols sell at Rs 4 to Rs 6 lakh in India and are often smuggled across the Nepal border or dropped off in Punjab by drones.

The Punjab police too is investigating a case of a trans-border smuggling network of sophisticated arms operated by the ISI. The police had seized two Glock 9 pistols with four magazines and 100 rounds of ammunition. The Punjab police said that the consignment was to be delivered to Nav Pandora, an associate of Jaggu Bhagwanpuria.

The Intelligence agencies say that all these gangs, including the one run by Salim Pistol, are all linked. Salim is a major operative and was coordinating between all these gangs to ensure that the arms were delivered.

The arms supplied by Salim were used for gang wars, targeted killings, and acts of terror, the probe also shows.

Further, the gangster-terror nexus case is also directly connected to the Khalistan movement, as it is these elements who run this from Canada and Pakistan. Salimas questioning will also provide more details on his clientele in India and beyond.

Salim originally hails from Jafrabad in Delhi. He left school after Class 8 and began working as a driver. In 2020, he, along with his associate Mukesh, was involved in a car theft. He was arrested and then released on bail. Following that, he was involved in more petty crimes before getting into the arms supplies business.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : A delegation of Karnataka BJP and JD-S leaders met Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot at the Raj Bhavan on Wednesday and submitted a memorandum demanding that the murder of Hindu activist Gavisiddappa Nayak from Koppal district should be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The delegation was led by State BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka, and JD-S floor leader and MLA C.B. Suresh Babu.

Speaking to the media, former Minister B. Sriramulu said that the people of Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Ballari, and Koppal districts are secular and love everyone.

He criticised that ever since this (Congress) guarantee government came to power in the state, the poor and pro-Hindu activists have been living in a situation where there is no guarantee for their lives.

"In light of this murder, the Chief Minister, who is responsible for the Intelligence Department, should resign," he demanded.

He alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is accountable for the failure of the Intelligence department and asked whether the current Congress-led state government is sleeping.

He charged that Siddaramaiah is doing nothing except trying to save the Chief Minister's post.

Sriramulu also said that whenever a Hindu activist is murdered, the Home Minister G. Parameshwara responds with vague statements such as, "I don't know, I have no information, this should not have happened."

He asked what exactly the Home Minister is doing and accused the state government of fostering hatred in their region.

Sriramulu asked whether they intend to kill all Hindu activists across Karnataka.

The Karnataka BJP raised the Koppal Hindu activist murder case in the Assembly on Wednesday and demanded that the probe be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The party also urged the state government to provide Rs 50 lakh as compensation to the deceased's family.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour, State BJP President Vijayendra said, "In Koppal, on August 3, a brutal murder took place. Gavisiddappa Nayaka, a Hindu activist belonging to the Valmiki community, was hacked to death. The reason for the murder was that Gavisiddappa was in a relationship with a girl from another religion. At about 7:30 p.m., one Syed attacked him with a machete and killed him brutally."

"This has become national news. The important fact is that the accused killer had made Instagram posts showing machetes, created reels, and uploaded them before committing the murder. The police department failed to take precautionary measures, which resulted in this brutal incident," he added.

He said that after the murder, the Valmiki Mahasabha and all Hindu organisations held protests and observed a bandh, and it was only after a bandh was called and the case got highlighted that the police swung into action and arrested two or three persons in the case.

The BJP leader added that Gavisiddappa hailed from a poor family and his father Ningappa lodged a complaint.

"We are making two demands. The deceased hailed from a poor family. His father is a daily wage labourer and has three daughters. It is impossible for him to run the family. I urge the government to provide compensation. Earlier, in the Mohammad Fazil murder case reported from Mangaluru, the state government had given his family Rs 25 lakh in compensation," he said.

"Considering the poor background of the deceased's family, the state government must provide at least Rs 50 lakh in compensation. The family should also be given two acres of land, and one family member should be provided with a government job," he demanded.

"Importantly, this is a serious case. The murder was carried out in a manner similar to the killing of Mangaluru Hindu activist Suhas Shetty. I urge that this case be handed over to the NIA, because no one in the state has faith in the police department. The state must take this matter seriously and hand it over to the NIA," BJP leader Vijayendra said.

Former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan said the state government had no shame as the killer was arrested three days after the incident.

"Is this government dead or functioning?" he asked.

Koppal District In-charge Minister Shivaraj Tangadgi said that he had visited the deceased's residence and that action had been initiated in the case.

BJP legislators stood up in the Assembly and criticised the Congress-led government for its handling of the case.

Speaker U.T. Khader intervened and advised BJP leaders to bring up the matter under other provisions if they wanted a discussion in the House.

He said that during the Zero Hour, members can make statements but cannot hold discussions.

He also added that the state government would respond to the issue later.
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Kurukshetra, Aug 13 : Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday called upon the Prajapati community to strengthen their traditional art by integrating it with modern technology.

He urged them to move forward by adopting new techniques, making use of government schemes and enhancing the quality and appeal of their products in line with market demand.

The Chief Minister was addressing a state-level function organised here for the distribution of entitlement certificates to families belonging to the Prajapati community.

On this occasion, he handed over certificates to beneficiaries. The programme was held simultaneously in all 22 districts of the state, benefiting around 100,000 families with land entitlement certificates.

Under the scheme, the entitlement certificates have been issued in 1,700 villages, granting the Prajapati community collective rights for soil excavation.

These certificates, issued under the Gram Shamlat Bhumi Niyamwali of 1964, not only grant the right to use the land but also provide legal authority to carry out their work without hindrance. This initiative will enable the community to give a new direction to their art, help realise their dreams and allow them to manufacture products without having to travel far.

At the Daksh Prajapati Jayanti celebrations held in Bhiwani on July 13, Chief Minister Saini had promised to provide land entitlement certificates to the community.

Describing the Prajapati community as hardworking, honest and skilled, the Chief Minister said the art of making earthen pots has been an integral part of "our cultural heritage".

"However, over time, this skill has not received the respect and opportunities the community rightfully deserves, and the necessary resources to connect the new generation with this art were not provided in time."

The Chief Minister said earlier that in every village, adequate land was available for the Prajapatis to source soil, but previous governments "failed" to address this need.

He said in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas', the state government is working to provide respect and growth opportunities to every community in the state.

While highlighting schemes being implemented by the government for the welfare of backward classes, CM Saini said a Mati Kala Board has been constituted in the state to promote artisans engaged in making clay utensils and artistic items, and incentives are being provided to them.

He said the annual income limit of the creamy layer for backward classes has been raised from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh.

In addition, eight per cent representation has been granted to Backward Class 'A' in Panchayati Raj Institutions.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday rejected two petitions challenging the Congress-led state government's decision to make it compulsory for new electricity consumers to install smart pre-paid meters. The cost of these smart pre-paid meters is said to be much higher than in neighbouring states.

A Bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna further noted that a similar petition is pending before the Division Bench of the High Court and, therefore, dismissed the pleas in this case.

The Bench passed the order and adjourned the matter to July 22 for further hearing.

Earlier, the court had criticised the government, stating that in other states the price for installing pre-paid smart meters is fixed at Rs 900, whereas in Karnataka the government is charging Rs 8,900 for the same type of meter.

The court had questioned, "Where will the poor go?" and observed that the outsourcing of such work could be dangerous.

The court had also issued an interim order directing the state government not to make the procurement of smart pre-paid meters mandatory for the supply of electricity.

Senior counsel for the petitioner, Lakshmy Iyengar, submitted that all consumers would eventually be required to switch to smart meters.

However, Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty, representing the state, clarified that only new houses are required to install smart meters and the rule does not apply to existing customers.

Meanwhile, in another development related to the smart meter controversy, a BJP delegation met Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Wednesday, seeking his approval to initiate an investigation against Energy Minister K.J. George under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

This is the second time the BJP has demanded prosecution against Minister George in connection with the case.

Speaking on the smart meter issue, BJP state president and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra alleged that ever since the Congress-led government came to power, there have been incidents of looting and plundering.

He recalled that Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka and former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan had previously met the Governor to seek permission to prosecute the minister. "We have once again submitted a request on the same matter," he stated.

The representation submitted to the Governor alleged that Minister George, in collusion with the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) officials, committed various violations in relation to the smart meter tender, with the intention of illegally enriching themselves through a shell company.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : Karnataka Congress on Wednesday slammed the ECI and urged the election body to look into its shortcomings instead of allegedly intimidating the Congress party and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, asking him to take an oath regarding "vote theft" allegations.

"Instead of looking into their own shortcomings, they are trying to intimidate us," said Minister for RDPR, IT and BT Priyank Kharge, to the media in Bengaluru, after releasing more details of the alleged election fraud.

The minister claimed that their party has built upon what the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, said earlier about how the ECI is not functioning in a free and fair manner, adding that his party has quoted several local sources and provided new evidence of discrepancies that took place in the Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha constituency.

"All we are asking is for the ECI to get its act right, instead of intimidating opposition leaders. We have given them certain evidence, but instead of verifying and reviewing it and coming before the public with a statement, they are trying to intimidate us. We will not be bogged down or yield to this pressure. We demand answers from the ECI on what happened in the Bengaluru Central Parliamentary seat," the minister said.

Kharge said that all the evidence his party has provided is either government-verified or sourced from the ECI itself, and it is still available with them.

He added that the rules they (ECI) have established for their own functioning have been violated, and that is what Congress has pointed out.

"Every document we have is either obtained through RTI or endorsed by the government. This is exactly what Rahul Gandhi has been saying," Kharge added.

He claimed that when the media outlets asked people in Bengaluru, one of the voters claimed that there are more Bangladeshi nationals here and that they vote for the BJP.

"They also alleged that the BJP leaders ensure their settlement here. BJP MLAs and MPs know that Bangladeshi nationals are living here. They themselves are running campaigns to send out Bangladeshi nationals," he claimed.

The minister also asked the BJP about how people from Bangladesh reach Bengaluru, adding, whose responsibility is it to protect the borders?

"What is their connection with the BJP? I am not making these claims  voters are asking these questions. The BJP, not the Congress party, must answer them," he emphasised.

He asked how it is possible that 1 lakh voters were added to the list in just 11 months?

"How were 62,000 names added overnight - that's 160 people every day - some using fake transfer certificates and without proper addresses? Whose responsibility is it to issue voter IDs? Is it the job of the state government, CM Siddaramaiah, or Rahul Gandhi? Or is it the ECI's responsibility? We are only reminding them of their duties," Kharge said.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of being the "mother of electoral fraud" and citing a series of alleged manipulations in elections dating back to the early years of independent India.

New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the Congress, accusing it of being the "mother of electoral fraud" and citing a series of alleged manipulations in elections dating back to the early years of independent India.

In a social media post on X accompanied by an infographic, the BJP listed five instances between 1952 and 1987, claiming that Congress leaders, including former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, engaged in malpractices to secure victories.

The party alleged that such practices continue even today, asserting that "the Congress's assault on democracy is still ongoing."

According to the BJP's post, the first instance occurred in 1952, when Congress and Communist leaders 'colluded' to defeat Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in elections.

The second cited example was from 1957, when Congress supporters allegedly carried out India's first-ever booth capturing in Begusarai, Bihar.

The post further accused the Congress of manipulating the 1967 Jammu & Kashmir elections, claiming that opposition nominations were rejected en masse, allowing the party to win 61 seats uncontested.

The BJP also targeted former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, alleging that she secured her 1975 Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat through rigging, an election result later challenged in court, leading to the imposition of the Emergency. Another incident mentioned was from 1987, when the Congress, in alliance with the National Conference, allegedly rigged the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections - an event often cited by analysts as a trigger for the beginning of insurgency in the valley.

Alongside images of Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi, the BJP captioned the post: "The mother of electoral fraud is Congress", adding the slogan, "Congress's attack on democracy - 1952, 1957, 1967, 1975, 1987 still continuing."

The BJP's fresh offensive comes amid an increasingly heated political climate, with both parties trading barbs over each other's democratic credentials in the run-up to key state elections in Bihar and the next year's assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.
Chandigarh, Aug 13 : Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said on Wednesday that the Congress won 10 Assembly seats in the state by a margin of 100 to 1,000 votes.

"If there were any faults in the EVMs, the Congress would not have won these seats," he added.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the public should not be misled on this issue, adding that Congress members should explain this to their leader Rahul Gandhi and get him treated as "there is no cure for lies".

He was interacting with the media after the Tiranga Yatra in Kurukshetra.

CM Saini said: "Whenever election results are announced, either in the state or in the country, the Congress routinely blames the EVMs."

He added that during this election, the Congress leaders repeatedly claimed that if Narendra Modi became the country's Prime Minister for a third term, the Constitution would be in danger.

"Rahul Gandhi and other leaders of the INDIA bloc campaigned using the Constitution as a symbol, but the people of the country rejected their false narratives. Instead, they elected Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of the country for the third consecutive term. In Haryana too, the BJP formed the government for the third time in a row," he said.

The Congress has no real issues left and is now frustrated, the Chief Minister added.

"The party (Congress) ruled the country for 55 years, but today seeing the rapid development under the BJP rule, the Congress leaders have lost their mental balance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ended Congress' corrupt practices and worked for the welfare of the poor."

The Prime Minister provided Ayushman cards, built toilets in every home, ensured ration reaches the needy, and gave gas cylinders to poor families under the Ujjwala Yojana, CM Saini said.

"The Congress is unhappy with the BJP government's efforts to uplift the poor. Instead of supporting progress, they continue to mislead people with false statements. But now, the people of both the country and the state have understood Congress' lies," the Chief Minister added.

He said that the country was divided due to the ambitions of those driven by political greed.

"The people of India endured the pain of Partition just a day before Independence. During that time, countless families were torn apart, and many daughters and children lost their lives. For the first time since Independence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi truly acknowledged the suffering of those affected by Partition."

CM Saini said "we must remember the lakhs of people who endured this tragedy. As a result, he took the initiative to observe August 14 as "Partition Horrors Remembrance Day" (Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas).

--IANS

vg/khz
Hyderabad, Aug 13 : Heavy rain lashed parts of Telangana, including Hyderabad, on Wednesday under the impact of the low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, while the Hyderabad Meteorological Centre has issued a red alert for the entire state for two days.

Director of the Meteorological Centre, K. Nagaratna, said that a red alert has been issued for Wednesday and Thursday across Telangana.

Red warnings have been issued for the districts of Sangareddy, Vikarabad, Medak, Medchala"Malkajgiri, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Bhupalpally, and Mulugu districts.

An orange alert has been issued for Hyderabad, Hanumakonda, Adilabad, Jangaon, Kamareddy, Kumuram Bheem Asifabad, Mahabubabad, Mancherial, Nalgonda, Rangareddy, Siddipet, and Warangal districts.

She also stated that heavy to very heavy rain is likely to occur in Hyderabad and Rangareddy districts.

For the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) region, the met centre has issued a red alert for Wednesday and an orange alert for Thursday.

Heavy rain is likely in the state for four days under the impact of a low-pressure area. The rain intensity is expected to be high in north Telangana. Gusty winds with a speed of 40 to 50 km per hour are also likely.

Heavy rain lashed Mancherial, Adilabad, Nirmal, Komaram Bheem Asifabad, Mulugu and other districts, inundating low-lying areas and affecting road transport to some villages.

In the Warangal district, a shepherd went missing after falling into an overflowing stream. Disaster Response Force, with the help of expert swimmers and local police, was searching for the missing man in Aakeru Vagu.

In Hyderabad, a man was rescued from an open nala in which he fell while trying to collect fodder for sheep. The incident occurred in Yakutpura in the old city of Hyderabad. AIMIM corporator Mohammed Wasey, with the help of locals, rescued the man, identified as Ghouse.

Heavy rain in parts of Hyderabad and its surroundings affected normal life. Traffic was disrupted in some parts of Central Hyderabad and the IT corridors of Madhapur and Gachibowli.

According to Telangana Development Planning Society, Mamidipalle in Balapur of Rangareddy district received maximum rainfall of 8.7 cm till 4 p.m. on Wednesday. Industrial Area Mahankal and Airport, both in Rangareddy district, recorded rainfall of 8 and 7.8 cm, respectively.

In view of the heavy rain alert, authorities declared a half-day holiday for all schools in Hyderabad on Wednesday and Thursday. The IT/ITES companies were also advised to enable work from home for their employees.

In Mancherial district, heavy rain and backwater flow from the Palvai Purushotham Rao project inundated Saligam village in Kannepalli mandal

District Collector Kumar Deepak visited the affected areas and advised residents to vacate submerged houses or high-risk areas immediately and move to safer locations. He directed officials to provide necessary assistance, arrange temporary shelters, and ensure round-the-clock monitoring of the situation.

Suryapet district Collector Tejas Nand Lal Pawan urged people to remain vigilant in view of the heavy rain lashing the district.

He inspected the Dondapadua"Jaggayyapet Road Bridge and the Bypass Road Bridge over the Erravagu in Dondapadu village, Chinthalapalem mandal, to assess the water flow situation. On this occasion, the Collector instructed officials to be present on-site and caution people against going near the Erravagu.

Adilabad Collector Rajarshi Shah inspected the Sathnala Project to assess the water levels and safety measures in place. The Collector reviewed the situation with concerned officials and instructed them to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions.
Imphal, Aug 13 : Manipur on Wednesday observed Patriots' Day to commemorate all those who sacrificed their lives while defying the British Raj in 1891.

The Manipuris put up a brave resistance against the three columns of the army, which were deployed by the then British government to take control of the independent princely state of Manipur after the death of then Maharaja Chandrakirti Singh in 1886.

After the British had won the war, they arrested those who had been involved in trying to defend their land, and sentenced the key figures to death.

On August 13, 1891, Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit Singh, Thangal General, and Paona Brajabasi were hanged at Bir Tikendrajit Park.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and many political leaders, intellectuals and social activists paid rich tribute at Heecham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom, Imphal, where patriot Yubaraj Bir Tikendrajit Singh was cremated after his execution.

In a message, the Governor said that he extended his deepest respect and heartfelt tribute to the departed patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice defending the sovereignty in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.

"Patriots' Day reminds us of the heroic deeds of our forefathers like Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Chirai Naga, Pukhrambam Kajao, Niranjan Subedar and a host of other martyrs who fought valiantly to defend the sovereignty of Manipur. They demonstrated supreme valour and fought against the British Empire in 1891, even in the face of death and imprisonment. The departed leaders believed in the freedom of their nation and challenged the mighty empire," Bhalla said.

The Governor later visited the temple of Thangal General, offering floral tributes and praising his pivotal role in Manipur's freedom struggle, urging youth to emulate his courage and patriotism.

Former Chief Minister Biren Singh paid tributes to the freedom fighters at his residence.

"Observed Patriots' Day at my residence, paying heartfelt homage to our brave forefathers whose sacrifice for Manipur's honour continues to inspire generations."

"Patriots' Day is not just a commemoration of history, but a reminder of the values our heroes stood for, unity, resilience, and an unyielding love for Manipur. May the spirit of our patriots continue to guide and inspire us in every step we take for Manipur," he said in a post on X.

The opposition Congress separately observed the 134th Patriots' Day.

State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh, who led the party in observing the Patriots' Day in Congress Bhawan here said that August 13 is observed as Patriots' Day to commemorate the martyrdom of Bir Tikendrajit Singh -- the "Lion of Manipur"  and Thangal General, who were executed by the British at Pheidabung (now Bir Tikendrajit Park, Imphal) following the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.

He said that in 1891, the British Empire launched a military campaign against Manipur after political tensions and the killing of British officials.

Bir Tikendrajit, the crown prince and commander of the Manipuri army, along with Thangal General, led the resistance against British forces. After the British victory, several leaders were captured, Singh said, adding that on August 13, 1891, Tikendrajit and Thangal General were publicly hanged in Imphal for "waging war against the Queen".

"The day stands as a reminder of Manipur's resistance to colonial rule and the sacrifices made for its sovereignty. Patriots' Day remains one of the most significant state-level observances in Manipur, carrying the same spirit of pride and remembrance as Independence Day across India," said Singh, also a member of the Assembly.
Moscow, Aug 13 : Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will hold a meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar in Moscow on August 21, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday. The two leaders will discuss key issues on bilateral agenda and key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks.

In a post on X, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "FM Sergei Lavrov's schedule: On August 21, FM Sergei Lavrov will hold talks with FM of India Dr S Jaishankar in Moscow. The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks."

The meeting follows National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval's recent visit to Moscow, where he met Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and Russiaas Secretary of the Security Council Sergei Shoigu.

The upcoming meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Lavrov comes after their talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers' Meeting on July 15.

The two ministers had also met on the sidelines of BRICS Summit last month and discussed bilateral cooperation, West Asia, BRICS and SCO.

Earlier this year, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had visited Moscow to hold bilateral Foreign Office Consultations with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko.

During the consultations on March 7, the two sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral ties and also shared perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both sides took stock of progress on implementation of decisions taken at the 22nd Annual Summit held in Moscow in July 2024, the meeting in Kazan on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin, the 25th session of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation held in New Delhi in November 2024, and other high level engagements.

In November 2024, Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and EAM Jaishankar had co-chaired the 25th meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation in New Delhi.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to visit India following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is being planned as part of the ongoing commitment to annual meetings between the two leaders.
Bhopal, Aug 13 : Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Hemant Khandelwal said on Wednesday that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's "voter theft" allegations, which sparked a row across the country, "is a well planned conspiracy to raise questions on India's democracy and the Constitution".

Betul MLA Khandelwal, who was appointed as MP BJP Chief on July 2, talking to media persons, said that Congress should introspect on why Rahul Gandhi is deliberatly questioning the credibility of important institutions in the country.

"What Rahul Gandhi said is really a worry for all of us, but it is more worrying for the Congress. The grand-old party should introspect why their leader is questioning every important institutions of the country?" he told IANS during his visit to Betul.

Hitting at the Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the BJP leader accused the Congress-led INDIA bloc of "disrespecting" voters' mandate in the country.

"People of the country have voted for BJP, Congress and many other political parties, therefore, people's mandate should be respected," Khandelwal added.

Rahul Gandhi and Congress have alleged that voters' lists in states where the party lost are corrupted, with voters' names deleted or included more than once to rig elections in favour of the BJP.

Opposition parties have also criticised the election panel's decision to revise the voters' list in the key northern state of Bihar just before state elections due later this year, saying it aims to disenfranchise large number of poor voters.

Extending support to Rahul Gandhi's allegations, Madhya Pradesh Congress unit led by party chief Jitu Patwari has also launched state-wide protests.

Once such protest was organised in Rewa on Tuesday and Congress leaders will also hold a protest in Bhopal and Gwalior.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has said that changes in voters' lists are shared with political parties and all complaints are investigated thoroughly.

It has also added that voters' lists need to be revised to remove deceased voters or those who have relocated to other parts of the country, among others.
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Actress Vidya Balan, whose debut film 'Parineeta' is gearing up for a re-release, has shared the title of the first song that she heard from the album.

The actress shared that she was shooting a music video with the late filmmaker Pradeep Sarkar when he asked her to listen to a song that he and his team had recorded. This was the first song from the film which the actress heard.

Talking about the same, she said, "There is something about Piyu Bole that just has my heart. I think it's so easily hummable, it has that old-world charm, it's so romantic, and the way it was shot added to making the song somewhat timeless. It's still relatable, even for people today".

She further mentioned, "In fact, a lot of young kids have told me they like that song, and I feel that is very telling that there's truly something timeless about it. The first song I heard that was recorded for Parineeta was 'Raat Hamari Toh'. I was shooting with Dada for a music video in Kolkata, and he told me, 'Just go down to the car, there's a CD with a song we've just recorded'. I went down, played it, and I burst out crying in the car. It's such a beautiful, haunting, and powerful song. It's so easy to cry listening to it. I love the music of Parineeta every single song".

Composed by Shantanu Moitra with lyrics by Swanand Kirkire , Parineeta's music has stood the test of time.

Shantanu Moitra shared, "'Parineeta' is a piece of my heart. The music was born from a place of pure truth, melodies given room to breathe, carrying words that spoke directly to the soul. I was in awe of how Chitra ji, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan infused every note with such depth and sincerity, and how Rekhaji's performance lent 'Kaisi Paheli Zindgani' its timeless grace. Working with Swanand was pure magic; his lyrics didn't just complement the music, they lifted it to another plane".

He added, "And at the centre of it all was Pradeep Sarkar, who wove music, story, and visuals into a seamless work of art. I am grateful to Vinod, whose belief and vision made this journey possible and inspired every creative choice along the way. Hearing this soundtrack now, remastered and alive on the big screen, feels like meeting an old friend in a new light, the soul is the same, but the colours are brighter".

Lyricist Swanand Kirkire said, "'Parineeta' was a dream, where poetry and melody danced in perfect harmony. Every song was born out of deep lived emotion, from the tender confession of Piyu Bole to the unrestrained joy of Kasto Mazza to the playful enigma of Kaisi Paheli Zindgani. Shantanu's music gave my words flight, and the voices of Shreya, Sonu, and Sunidhi breathed soul into them".

"And then came Vidya, Saif, and Rekha ji, bringing those songs alive on screen and turning them into instant classics. A special thanks to Vinod for empowering us with both the freedom to write poetically and the confidence to do so. Two decades later, hearing these songs remastered in all their glory feels like opening an old letter that still gives me goosebumps", he added.

This special re-release not only celebrates two decades of Parineeta's enduring legacy but also commemorates 20 years of Vidya Balan's remarkable journey in Indian cinema and 50 glorious years of Vinod Chopra Films.

Vinod Chopra Films is the first production house in India to restore its entire film library in 8K resolution, with soundtracks remastered in 5.1 surround sound, a meticulous process that took over four years to complete. The film has been restored by Prasad Film Labs. The film is set to re-release in cinemas on August 29, 2025.
This story was originally published on Construction Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Construction Dive newsletter.

WSP announced a $1 billion, seven-year partnership with Microsoft at the beginning of 2025 to accelerate the digitization of the architecture, engineering and construction industry via artificial intelligence. That alliance is now paying off, CEO Alexandre L'Heureux said on a second-quarter earnings call Aug. 7.

In our bidding group  we believe that very soon we will be able to reduce some of our human output by close to 80%, LHeureux said. So that's not de minimis, because we have bidding groups across each and every segment and across each and every country. So that's an example of where we feel we can make a tremendous improvement and reduce human intervention.

Its not just AI creating those results, though: In the past decade, the Montreal-based construction giants revenue per employee has seen constant growth while labor became cheaper, according to LHeureux.

Our revenue at the moment is growing much faster than our headcount, LHeureux said. That's why today, unlike perhaps five, six, seven years ago, I am not talking as much about headcount as we used to. To me, it's becoming more irrelevant.

Although the market is still very, very dynamic, WSP has not seen much election-related disruption amid recent or upcoming votes in major markets including New Zealand, the U.K., Australia, Canada and the U.S., according to L'Heureux.

Even with regime change in the U.S. and U.K., infrastructure spending remains a top priority for both of those countries, LHeureux said. Although President Donald Trumps administration has brought some shifts in priorities  for instance, away from renewables and towards fossil fuels  he aims to facilitate and expedite investment.

Projects and sectors

Data centers and related projects remain hot, with robust activity across all of our geographies, according to LHeureux.

Mandates encompass site acquisition, due diligence, master planning for new AI factories, greenfield data center design projects, brownfield data center upgrades and the growing power and water infrastructure demand, LHeureux said.

WSP has also seen tremendous growth in power generation, LHeureux said, citing thermal and nuclear energy in particular. To that end, Power Engineers, the Hailey, Idaho-based engineering and environmental consulting firm it purchased in August 2024, had an organic growth rate of 16% this quarter.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Legal Advisor and Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna said on Wednesday that the Election Commission (EC) is not answering the questions asked by the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and instead is asking him to give oath along with his complaint regarding the "election fraud." Bengaluru, Aug 13 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Legal Advisor and Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna said on Wednesday that the Election Commission (EC) is not answering the questions asked by the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and instead is asking him to give oath along with his complaint regarding the "election fraud."

"They (EC) are not coming out clean and are not answering questions raised by the LoP Rahul Gandhi. Instead of answering the grave questions which touch upon the very basics of Indian democracy, the ECI has taken an approach which not even the students of law can accept," Ponnanna told media persons in Bengaluru.

He said that in response to the grave allegation of gross illegalities, discrepancies in the voters' list made by LoP Rahul Gandhi, the Election Commission came up with the shocking reply, and demanded that the LoP Rahul Gandhi should come on oath in terms of Rule 20 (3) of the Registration of Electors' Rule 1960, and also threatened that the action would be taken if he does not abide by the instructions.

"These rules, the Electors' Rules 1960, have no applicability whatsoever to the allegations made by Rahul Gandhi. To extract one subclause of a rule and quote that in a general response is absurd. The electoral rules deal with the registration of electors, objections to these registrations and claims," he said.

Ponnanna point out that these rules can't be taken in a subclause form and shown in defence.

"Rules 12 to 20 deal with this entire process. It deals with individual voters who request to be added, objectors who object to such actions and objectors who want voters to be deleted," he said.

He said that the Election Registration Officer is entitled to deal with such objections and such claims by either accepting or rejecting without any enquiry, and added that he has the power under Rule 70.

"If he feels that an enquiry is to be initiated, he can start a summary inquiry, issue a notice to the claimant or the objectors. In the process of that inquiry, in his discretion under subclause 3 of Rule 20, he can ask either the claimant or the objector to come out on oath," he said.

Ponnanna said that this is the procedure for the inclusion and deletion of voters.

"If I want to be a voter in Bengaluru, this is the procedure. Now, how does this apply to the allegations of illegalities and total misuse of machinery under an unclean electoral list, as mentioned by LoP Rahul Gandhi? There is no applicability," he further pointed out.

He claimed that it is appalling that the ECI, which is a Constitutional body entrusted with maintaining the sanctity of the election process and electoral list, is coming up with absurd defences.

"This entire response of EC shows that they are trying to hide something," claimed Ponnanna.

Earlier, Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Anbukumar had issued a notice to LoP Rahul Gandhi asking him to produce relevant documents regarding his charges of election fraud.

The CEO also underlined in the notice that the document shown in the press conference by LoP Rahul Gandhi is not official.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 : Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Wednesday appealed to the District Revenue Ministerial Employees to call off their mass leave strike and return to their work immediately.

The minister noted that the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Revenue Department has directed all Collectors to reject leave applications, treat absences as unauthorised, and enforce the "No Work, No Pay" rule.

Minister Pujari warned that if employees do not return to duty, their roles could be abolished, and the Revenue Department may consider modifying its software to reduce dependency on them.

The government appealed to employees to resume work immediately to ensure that poor citizens are not deprived of revenue services.

Revenue Minister Pujari said that in a democratic setup, strikes should be the last resort and dialogue is always the best way forward.

The proposal for restructuring the revenue employees' cadre has already been sent to the General Administration (GA) Department for a final decision. He cautioned that mass leave is not a healthy sign, as it deprives the people of Odisha of essential revenue services.

Over 10,000 revenue ministerial employees across all 30 districts have been on mass leave since Monday over a charter of 10 demands.

The employees alleged that they had earlier staged a protest wearing black badges in July.

The state government had then assured them that their demands would be fulfilled within a month. Their demands include restructuring the revenue employees' cadre, an increase in the initial pay, health insurance of Rs 20 lakh, 100 per cent promotion in Odisha Revenue Service for the Revenue Ministerial Employees, among others.

Earlier, the Revenue Department ACS Deoranajan Kumar Singh directed the District Collectors to issue show-cause notices against those absent without authorisation.

The salaries of the employees will be withheld for the period of unauthorised absence. The unauthorised leave period will also be treated as a break in service and recorded in the service book.

Singh also stated that the non-availability of field-level revenue personnel has disrupted key public services in the state and caused significant inconvenience to the public.
West Midnapore, Aug 13 : Paschim Medinipur, popularly known as West Midnapore district, has secured the top position in West Bengal in the formation of women's self-help groups (SHGs) and loan distribution. The district, located in the Jangalmahal region, also leads the state in the field of microfinance.

West Midnapore, Aug 13 (IANS) Paschim Medinipur, popularly known as West Midnapore district, has secured the top position in West Bengal in the formation of womenas self-help groups (SHGs) and loan distribution. The district, located in the Jangalmahal region, also leads the state in the field of microfinance.

For years, the state government has been taking initiatives to make rural women self-reliant. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has consistently directed officials in administrative meetings to take steps towards womenas empowerment.

Acting on these instructions, the Paschim Medinipur district administration has been providing various skill-training programmes to women from SHGs. After completing training, many women are earning a livelihood by producing handicrafts, engaging in food processing, and pursuing other small-scale ventures. Even rural housewives are now joining the initiative.

According to official data, the number of self-help groups in Paschim Medinipur exceeds 70,000. In the current financial year alone, loans worth about Rs 56 crore have been distributed to SHGs in Keshpur block. In Debra block, loan distribution has reached Rs 108 crore. Women in Narayangarh block have received nearly Rs 80 crore in loans, while Sabang has seen Rs 54 crore and Pingla Rs 40 crore in distributions. Similar facilities have been extended to all 21 blocks in the district.

Speaking to IANS, Paschim Medinipur District Magistrate, Khursheed Ali Qadri, said: "I want to thank the whole team. Our team, including the BDOs and SDOs, is committed to enhancing SHG microfinance. We aim to improve the living standards of SHG members and achieve overall development in the district."

The initiative is part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana a" National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), a poverty alleviation programme under the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD). Launched in June 2011, the scheme is implemented across the country (except Delhi and Chandigarh) with the goal of organising rural poor households into self-help groups, nurturing and supporting them until they achieve a sustainable increase in income and improve their quality of life, enabling them to rise out of poverty.

So far, 10.05 crore rural womenas households have been mobilised into over 90.90 lakh self-help groups across India, with Paschim Medinipur now emerging as a model district for others to follow.
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday asked the Ganeshotsav Mandals to create awareness about the power shown by India to the world through Operation Sindoor and the use of indigenous products during this year's Ganesh festival.

He appealed to the public Ganeshotsav Mandals to celebrate this Ganeshotsav in a peaceful and enthusiastic atmosphere in coordination with the administration, and also expressed the hope that the scenes based on 'Operation Sindoor' would be dedicated to the jawans.

At the meeting to review the law and order situation, Fadnavis also instructed the administration to take necessary actions so that Ganesh devotees do not face any problems during the Ganesh festival.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Minister of Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Mangalprabhat Lodha, Minister of State for Home (Rural) Pankaj Bhoyar, Minister of State for Home (Urban) Yogesh Kadam and Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar were present.

He gave instructions to give permission to idol makers for five consecutive years, like the public Ganeshotsav Mandals. He said that the idol makers should renew these licenses every year.

For permission, one should take advantage of the computerised system-based one-window scheme launched by the Municipal Corporation, he added.

He also gave instructions to increase the number of artificial lakes for immersion of Ganesh idols and the number of boats for immersion of tall idols in the deep sea on the seashore.

Fadnavis said that the state government has given Ganeshotsav the status of a state festival. Therefore, a large-scale and detailed plan has been made by the state government to celebrate this festival. All the concessions given to Ganeshotsav mandals last year will be maintained this year as well. The law should be followed properly while celebrating this festival.

"Since Eid-e-Milad festival also falls during Ganeshotsav, care should be taken to ensure that law and order does not deteriorate anywhere by maintaining religious harmony. Positive action will be taken under the court to extend the days of permission given to loudspeakers during Ganeshotsav," he added.

According to the government release, it was decided at today's meeting that the property tax will not be levied on the offices of the public Ganeshotsav Mandals, which will convey to the administration in writing that their offices are not being used for commercial purposes.
Dhaka: A year has passed since Sheikh Hasina was ousted from her long tenure as Bangladesh's Prime Minister on August 5, 2024, following a mass uprising. Just days after she fled the country, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed the role of Chief Advisor to the interim government on August 8, promising sweeping reforms and heralding a new era of freedom and democratic revival. Yet, 12 months on, the reality is far from that vision. Anarchy and violence-perpetrated by both security forces and non-state actors - along with a neglected reform agenda and creeping authoritarianism, have cast a dark shadow over the nation's trajectory.

Dhaka: A year has passed since Sheikh Hasina was ousted from her long tenure as Bangladesh's Prime Minister on August 5, 2024, following a mass uprising. Just days after she fled the country, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed the role of Chief Advisor to the interim government on August 8, promising sweeping reforms and heralding a new era of freedom and democratic revival. Yet, 12 months on, the reality is far from that vision. Anarchy and violencea"perpetrated by both security forces and non-state actors a" along with a neglected reform agenda and creeping authoritarianism, have cast a dark shadow over the nation's trajectory.

A Human Rights Watch (HRW) report published on July 30 outlines the failings of and the deliberate excesses by the interim government. The Yunus-led government, which had pledged to break from the enforced disappearances and political repression of the Hasina era, now appears to have become an instrument of political vendetta.

In a striking move, it banned the party that had led Bangladesh's liberation struggle against Pakistan in 1971. This has been followed by a wave of arbitrary arrests targeting Awami League (AL) supporters and other political rivals. The crackdown was starkly visible after the July 16 clashes between security forces and pro-AL activists, when hundreds were detained and 10 murder cases were filed against over 8,400 individuals.

As per the report, from August 6 to September 25, 2024, over 92,000 people have been booked, most of them under murder charges, including Hasina, 390 former ministers, members of Parliament, advisors to the PM, city mayors, and others.

In a glaring example of the extreme abuse of power, the former mayor of North Dhaka Mohammad Atiqul Islam has been in detention since October 2024 for over 60 separate cases of murder and attempted murder, with 36 of them having happened while he was not even present in the country.

Moreover, in the name of apprehending alleged criminal gangs operated by the Hasina government, the security forces have arrested over 8,600 people since February this year, under what is dubbed as aOperation Devil Hunta. The HRW concludes that many of these detentions, which mostly target AL supporters, appear to be arbitrary and politically motivated.

In relation to the promise of systemic reform, 11 reform commissions were founded in 2024, including those addressing the election commission, judiciary, and police. Despite much fanfare around the recommendations of those commissions that sounded ground-breaking on paper, such as the complete independence of the judiciary from the executive, the establishment of an independent police commission for police accountability, and so on, any structural, meaningful execution of the same remains elusive.

Analysts have pointed out several reasons for the same, including institutional barriers impeding the implementation of reform. However, when one critically looks at the power the interim government has wielded in its retributive politics, it becomes clear that the stalling of systemic reform is not its failure but its strategy.

Besides, the reform commissions themselves garnered considerable criticism over lack of inclusivity in composition and transparency in recruitment. Composed predominantly of Bengali Muslim men, the commissions demonstrated a distressing lack of diversity and representation in terms of religion, ethnicity, and gender, casting doubts on the intentions and sincerity of the interim government.

On the other hand, in an August 4 report by the New Delhi-based Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), post-Hasina Bangladesh registered a 230 per cent increase in attacks on journalists, with nearly 900 journalists assaulted between August 2024 and July 2025. The same period saw a 558 per cent increase in criminal cases against journalists, highlighting the stifling and threatening environment faced by the press under the interim government.

Meanwhile, it is a well-known fact that religious minorities, particularly Hindus, have faced mounting harassment and violence since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, something that the interim government has denied by calling them instances of political violence rather than communal. The largest minority organisation of Bangladesh, i.e., Bangladesh Hindu Bouddho Christian Oikyo Parishad, revealed in a press statement last month that the first half of 2025 witnessed a total of 258 incidents of communal violence against minority communities in the country, including 20 cases of rape and 59 attacks on places of worship.

In addition to the above-described violence and repression, the HRW report also highlights increasing hostilities against womenas rights activists, LGBTQ+ people, and indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts by both state and non-state actors, including Islamist hardliners.

Evidently, what was hailed as the usher of a new era for Bangladeshas past year has unfolded as an unbridled descent into chaos a" marred by abuses, broken pledges, and deepening disillusionment. Although elections have been promised to be conducted in February 2026, given the patterns of the interim government, it remains questionable whether and in what way those elections are going to take place.

By now, the people of Bangladesh have likely learned the hard lesson of placing too much faith too quickly a" and cannot afford to lower their guard again. At the same time, the international community must turn a sharper eye toward Bangladesh, which is sinking each day into an ever-deeper abyss of chaos and authoritarian rule.
Patna, Aug 13 : BJP leader Rituraj Sinha, on Wednesday, lashed out at the Leader of the Opposition in Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, who has reiterated his threat to boycott the upcoming state elections.

Sinha asserted that whatever the Election Commission of India (ECI) is doing is "lawful, democratic, and in line with the Constitution" and should continue as part of the regular electoral process.

Speaking to IANS, Rituraj Sinha said, "In a democratic institution, under Article 326 and the Representation of the People Act, the Election Commission ensures the purity of the electoral roll. Those talking about boycotting elections are not in sync with democratic norms. They are trying to confuse people, mislead them, and seek votes through misinformation."

He further questioned the political motives behind such statements.

"I want people to ask -- during former Chief Minister Rabri Devias tenure, the work of Special Summary Revision (SSR) was not done. We never opposed it then. But in 2005, when the NDA government came, the electoral process continued. It has always happened and will keep happening. This is the law of the land," he told IANS.

On allegations by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) that several BJP leaders possess multiple EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) numbers, BJP leader Sinha offered a sharp rebuttal.

"Let me clarify -- Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya is an Indian citizen living in Patna. He shifted his voter ID from Gujarat to Patna. This is neither illegal nor objectionable. The real objectionable act is that Tejashwi Yadav himself has two EPIC numbers and two voter IDs. The Election Commission issued him a notice, but he never responded. He even filed his nomination for the 2020 elections using a fake ID. Before making allegations, Tejashwi Yadav should answer for his own actions. When those who speak about the Constitution attack constitutional bodies, it is like a thief scolding the police officer," he added.

BJP leader Sinha also commented on a separate issue concerning a recent circular by Chhattisgarh Waqf Board Chairman, Salim Raj, which directed all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs in the state to hoist the Tricolour outside their main gates on August 15 to mark the Independence Day.

"It is absolutely correct that the honour of the Tricolour should be upheld at every institution in India. It is expected of everyone, and all should participate in it. This must happen," he said.

Meanwhile, the circular, issued on Monday, said: "On the auspicious occasion of this national festival, the national flag should be hoisted at the main gate of all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs in Chhattisgarh. Understand the importance of Independence Day and maintain its dignity by showing patriotism, unity, and brotherhood."
Imphal, Aug 13 : Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, on Wednesday, urged people to remain united irrespective of ideology and political mindset to restore peace and normalcy in the state.

"We have to ensure peaceful coexistence in the state," he said.

Manipur Congress President, Keisham Meghachandra Singh, on Wednesday, claimed that the Union government has no real and realistic roadmap to restore peace in Manipur, where ethnic conflicts between Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribals have been devastating since May 2023.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the 134th Patriots Day celebrations, former Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh said that despite knowing that they would be defeated, Yubraj Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Chirai Naga, and others fought a war in 1891 against the British empire.

"Patriots Day is a commemoration to show respect and pay tribute to those warriors who sacrificed their lives for their motherland in the historic battle 134 years ago. Manipur has the legacy of those forefathers," said Biren Singh, who quit the Chief Ministerial post on February 9, days before the President's Rule was imposed in the state due to prolonged ethnic violence.

He added that despite different political ideologies, diverse thinking and separate perspectives, people must unite for the greater interest of the state and restore peace and normalcy with joint efforts.

"We have to re-establish peace and harmony for the interest of the future generation. I urge all to come forward unitedly for the sake of development of the state and welfare of all," he said.

The former Chief Minister earlier said that a popular government must be elected at the earliest to take forward the development of the state.

Biren Singh, earlier in the day, along with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, MLAs, and senior leaders paid floral tributes to Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit Singh and other patriots at the state-level event commemorating the fallen freedom fighters of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.

Patriots Day is observed every year in Manipur on August 13 to commemorate the hanging of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General by the British on this day in 1891 for waging war against the British empire.

State Congress President, while separately attending the Patriots Day celebrations at Congress Bhavan, said that the Union government has no practical roadmap to restore peace in the state.

He added that the Central government did not allocate sufficient funds for rebuilding damaged houses and properties of the violence-affected people and to rehabilitate the displaced people.

To undertake development, rebuild the damaged houses and to provide security to the affected people, sufficient funds are required from the Centre, the Congress leader said.

Meghachandra Singh said that former Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh had earlier announced the resettlement of violence-hit displaced people in three phases by December this year.

However, there is not much initiative from the state government to resettle the displaced people in their villages, Singh said, who is also the member of the Manipur Assembly.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Stepping up the offensive on the government, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday demanded that all ministers should quit their positions and fresh Parliamentary elections be conducted to restore the 'purity and sanctity' of India's electoral machinery.

To justify his demands, he said that the ruling party has supported its claims of 'vote chori' and voter list fraud, referring to Anurag Thakur's press conference on Wednesday, and therefore, this provides a 'good basis' for conducting elections afresh.

Pawan Khera, in a direct interaction with IANS, said that Congress has been reiterating claims of widespread rigging in the voters' list and electoral rolls, on account of fraudulent data, and the BJP also corroborated its charges today.

"As the ruling and opposition parties are on the same page, the big question is what will the Election Commission do now?" he asked.

Khera, also the chairman of Congress's media and publicity department, levelled another startling charge as he accused the ruling BJP and poll panel of being hand in glove.

He claimed that BJP MP Anurag Thakur got access to electronic voter lists data in just two days, something for which they had been pleading before the Election Commission for over six months.

Earlier in the day, Anurag Thakur flagged the issue of 'fake voters' in many constituencies, particularly spotlighting some high-profile constituencies of Opposition leaders including that of Priyanka Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav & others and said that these parties & their leaders were anxious and worried over 'purge' in the fraudulent list of their constituencies and this was the reason for stir against SIR.

He accused the Congress-led Opposition of running a vicious propaganda campaign to discredit and disparage the entire revision exercise, and also gave a breakdown of dubious votes in respective constituencies.

Responding to the charge of fake 93,000 votes in Priyanka Gandhi's Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency, Khera said that the Congress MP won by a margin of 4.10 lakh votes, and if close to 1 lakh votes were to be considered bogus or ineligible, this didn't pose any threat to her candidature.

He accused the EC and BJP of being hand in glove to target the Opposition and said that the voter verification was merely an exercise to delete its support base.
Patna, Aug 13 : The Nitish Kumar government on Wednesday approved 30 proposals spanning multiple departments during a cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister in Patna.

Additional Chief Secretary of the Cabinet Secretariat S. Siddhartha said the cabinet has doubled the honorarium pension for those jailed under the MISA/DIR during the movement led by Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan between March 18, 1974, and March 21, 1977.

The pension for those imprisoned for one to six months has been increased from Rs 7,500 to Rs 15,000 per month, and for those jailed for more than six months from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000.

To strengthen socio-economic and educational development programs in minority-dominated areas, the Nitish Kumar government has created 459 lower division clerk posts for block-level Minority Welfare Offices.

The department, functioning independently since 1991, has seen an increase in responsibilities due to the Prime Minister Jan Vikas Program being implemented across Bihar.

The Bihar cabinet has also approved several infrastructural and development projects, including Rs 292.74 crore sanctioned for connecting Mithapur flyover to Chiraiyatad flyover via Karbighiya, greenfield airports to be developed in Veerpur, Munger, Valmikinagar, Muzaffarpur, Saharsa, and Bhagalpur - Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) surveys approved. A total of Rs 2 crore 90 lakh 91720 has been approved for the survey.

The Bihar government has also decided to expand Gayaji airport and will acquire 18.2442 acres of land. Apart from that CAT 1 light will be constructed so that aircraft will be able to fly in bad weather and fog.

Also, six new industrial areas will be developed under the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor. Rs 82 crore 90 lakh 48000 approved for the purpose.

The Nitish Kumar government has also approved a salary hike for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and supervisors.

The cabinet also approved an amendment to Rule 14 of the Bihar Legislative Assembly Members' Salary, Allowance and Pension Rules, 2006.

The Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge will be constructed at Punpun Pinddaan Sthal in Patna.
Kolkata, Aug 13 : The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government issued a notification on Wednesday, mandating daily prime-time screening of Bengali films in all cinemas and multiplexes throughout the year.

The notification said that the order will come into immediate effect and will remain in place until further orders.

"In every cinema hall, and in all screens (each screen) of every multiplex situated in this state, 365 prime time shows/screenings of Bengali films shall mandatorily be held throughout the year, with at least one Bengali show per day for all 365 days during the year. Explanation: Prime time shows shall mean shows held between 3 to 9 p.m.," the notification by the West Bengal government said.

The notification added the state government has been considering screening of Bengali films in cinema halls and multiplexes for some time.

"In suppression of previous notification dated September 14, 2018, in order to encourage the Bengali Film Industry, the issue of mandatory screening of Bengali films by cinema halls/ multiplexes of this state was under the active consideration of the state government," the order said.

"Now, after careful consideration of all aspects of the matter, and in exercise of the power conferred by Sub-section (3) of Section 5 of the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation) Act, 1954, the Governor is hereby pleased to issue the following direction to all licensees of the state," it added.

The West Bengal government in its order also said, "Necessary amendment to the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation of Public Exhibitions) Rules, 1956, will be made in due course. This order shall come into immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders."

The latest decision from the West Bengal government comes in the backdrop of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's resolve to fight for the rights of people of Bengal and Bengali language.

Chief Minister Banerjee on a number of occasions criticised the BJP-led government at the Centre over harassment and attack of Bengali migrant workers across the country and especially in BJP-ruled states.

Members of the civil society and a section of the intellectuals from West Bengal had expressed solidarity towards West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress' sustained protests on both the issues of attack of "Bengali" language and alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states, while expressing their agony over the Delhi Police's purported letter terming "Bengali" as "Bangladeshi language".
Momentus (MNTS) shares nearly doubled on Wednesday morning after the commercial space firm said it has secured a terrestrial study contract from NASA.

This study will explore options to fly advanced robotic systems in space aboard its orbital service vehicle flights, the company revealed in its press release today.

More News from Barchart

Momentus stock has been in a sharp downtrend since the start of 2025. Even after todays surge, its down more than 80% versus its year-to-date high set in early January.

www.barchart.com

Significance of NASA Contract for Momentus Stock

The contract Momentus announced with NASA this morning is significant for investors primarily because it validates its technology and strengthens its credibility in the commercial space sector.

The award positions MNTS as a potential platform for deploying advanced robotics in orbit, which is a high-value niche with growing demand.

Additionally, it suggests future revenue opportunities tied to government partnerships and in-space servicing.

In short, an endorsement from NASA can catalyze investor confidence, attract institutional interest, and support long-term viability, all of which could lead to an increase in MNTS share price over time.

Avoid Chasing the Rally in MNTS Shares

While the NASA announcement sure is meaningfully positive for Momentus, investors should still practice caution in chasing this mornings rally since it is a penny stock.

Penny stocks are often prone to manipulation and tend to reverse gains just as quickly as they are racked up, especially when the upside is not backed by strong financials.

Moreover, Momentus shares do not currently receive coverage from Wall Street analysts, another letdown for serious investors given it reflects limited institutional interest and a lack of confidence in the companys long-term visibility and financial viability.

In conclusion, MNTS stock remains a speculative name with fragile fundamentals and minimal analyst oversight.

Therefore, investors view todays surge in the commercial space company as a sentiment-driven spike, not a sustainable turnaround, until clearer financial traction and institutional support emerge.

On the date of publication, Wajeeh Khan 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
Kolkata, Aug 13 : A 30-year-old man possessing a firearm was apprehended near the Sealdah railway station on Wednesday, an official said. A home guard and a traffic sergeant saw the man moving around suspiciously and caught him.

However, they had to chase the man -- identified as Pankaj Biswas -- a long way to catch him. Upon searching, a firearm was recovered which was kept inside his shirt.

Later, officers from Entally Police Station reached the spot and arrested the young man. However, questions on safety in and around Sealdah station have been raised following the arrest of the person in possession of a firearm.

Thousands of people commute daily through Sealdah Station which is one of the busiest railway stations in West Bengal after Howrah station.

According to police sources, Pankaj Biswas is a resident of Pottery Road area in north Kolkata.

He was roaming suspiciously near Beliaghata Road, near Sealdah station in the morning. Home Guard Sujit Khanra and sergeant Hiranmoy Sarkar of Sealdah Traffic Guard were on duty at that time.

They got suspicious of the youth and approached him for questioning. After being held by the home guard and traffic sergeant, the youth tried to escape.

They chased him a long way and apprehended him.

During the search, a country-made firearm was found hidden inside his shirt. After this, he was handed over to the Entally police station.

After questioning, the man was arrested. According to police sources, the firearm recovered from the arrested person was found in a non-operational state.

"It has been confiscated. We are investigating where the weapon came from. A case has also been filed against the arrested person under the relevant sections of the Arms Act," said a police officer.

The police are also investigating why was the youth roaming with a firearm near Sealdah station and whether he had any plan to use the firearm.
Chennai, Aug 13 : A 17-year-old Class 11 student collapsed and died inside a private school in Tamil Nadu's Villupuram on Wednesday, sending shockwaves across the district and sparking intense public attention after video footage of the incident surfaced online.

The student, identified as Mohan Raj of Mel Theru in Villupuram, had arrived at school as usual and taken his seat in the classroom when the tragedy occurred.

Eyewitnesses said he suddenly fainted and fell to the floor without warning. Teachers and classmates rushed to his aid, and he was immediately transported to a nearby private hospital.

However, doctors there declared him "brought dead".

Upon receiving information, police arrived at the school and began an inquiry.

Mohan Rajas body was later sent to the Mundiyampakkam Government Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.

A short video clip, reportedly from the classroomas CCTV camera, capturing the moment Mohan Raj collapsed, went viral on social media platforms within hours.

The footage prompted a flurry of reactions online, with many expressing grief and calling for clarity on the circumstances leading to the boyas sudden death.

In the wake of the incident and the online attention, the school administration declared an immediate holiday.

Authorities also heightened security around the premises, with over 50 police personnel deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.

While police sources said preliminary inquiries have not indicated any foul play, they are awaiting the autopsy report before drawing conclusions.

"We are looking into all possibilities, including any underlying medical condition," an officer said, adding that statements from teachers, classmates, and school staff were being recorded as part of the investigation.

However, the tragedy has taken a new turn with Mohan Rajas family alleging that the teenager had been facing heavy pressure in the school.

Relatives claimed that the academic workload and expectations had taken a toll on him, and urged authorities to investigate whether such pressure played a role in his death.

The sudden loss of life of a healthy-looking teenager in a classroom has left fellow students, teachers, and the local community deeply shaken.

Residents of Mel Theru described Mohan Raj as a cheerful and active boy who excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities.

Authorities have urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculation about the cause of death until the medical findings are released. The police have also warned against circulating the video clip further, citing privacy concerns and respect for the grieving family.

Funeral arrangements will be made after the post-mortem examination is completed.

--IANS

aal/vd
Aizawl, Aug 13 : Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma said on Wednesday that the state lies within close proximity to the Golden Triangle, a notorious region for drug trafficking.

Flagging off the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drugs Free India Campaign) in Aizawl, the Chief Minister said that this geographical location has led to the frequent inflow of drugs into the state.

Noting that drugs bring no benefit to society and must be eradicated completely, he also urged communities to be vigilant and united in their stand against drug abuse, ensuring that Mizo society remains protected from such harmful influences.

Lalduhoma encouraged young people to abstain entirely from drugs, warning that even occasional use is the first step towards addiction.

He further called on those already trapped in addiction to courageously step away and rebuild their lives.

As part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drugs Free India Campaign), the Mizoram State Level and Aizawl District Level programmes were organised in Aizawl, featuring a "Rally  Fight Against Drugs" with the participation of over 600 students from various schools and colleges.

Two starting points were designated -- Chanmari and Sikulpuikawn -- from where the rally proceeded to converge at Lammual, where the main programme was held.

The Chief Minister flagged off the participants from Chanmari and also joined them in the walk to Lammual.

The programme was also addressed by Health Minister Lalrinpuii and Excise and Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar.

Participants carried placards bearing anti-drug messages, and a competition was organised for the best placard designs, with prizes distributed to the winners.

The event also featured Miss Vanlalnuntluangi, Miss Grand India, who led the assembled crowd in taking an anti-drug pledge. Officials said that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is currently being implemented in 372 districts across India, including all districts in Mizoram.

The campaign focuses primarily on creating awareness about the harmful effects of drug use and preventing first-time users from starting. The rally in Aizawl was organised as part of the 5th anniversary of the campaign.

--IANS

sc/pgh
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Amid raging controversy over the announcement by several civic bodies that slaughterhouses and meat shops within city limits would remain closed on August 15 on the occasion of Independence Day and Janmashtami, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday clarified that the state government has not banned the sale of meat.

He told reporters that "The government resolution (GR) in this regard was issued in 1988. I was not aware that many municipalities have made decisions in this regard. I also came to know about this after the media reports."

He thereby downplayed the row and the opposition's criticism. He further stated, "I asked those municipalities why they took such a decision? Then they sent me the GR of 1988. They also said that they make such a decision every year. Even the civic bodies forwarded me a copy of the government decision in this regard during the Chief Ministership of Uddhav Thackeray. After all, the government has no desire to decide what anyone should eat."

Fadnavis said, "Currently, we have many questions. Therefore, such a controversy is being created on the decision taken in 1988, and it is being projected as if the decision was taken by our government. Some people have reached this point where they have started calling vegetarians impotent. But this stupidity should be stopped. Whoever wants to eat, they are eating. Everyone has the right to live in our country. Our government has not made any decision regarding the ban on meat sales. This is a decision taken by the old government."

CM's clarification comes after the civic bodies of Kalyan Dombivli, Nagpur and Malegaon have issued an order for closure of all slaughterhouses and meat shops in their jurisdictions for 24 hours on August 15. The opposition, including NCP SP, Congress and Shiv Sena UBT, slammed the decision by these civic bodies.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar opposed the decision, saying, "It is an individual's choice what one should eat or not eat. Nobody has the right to impose the decision. There are some people who are vegetarians and others who are non-vegetarians. It is part of an individual's habit, culture and inheritance and geographical conditions."

Pawar said that while it is important to keep public sentiments and faith in mind on certain religious occasions such as Ashadi Ekadhasi or Mahavir Jayanti, there is no reason why there should be a ban on meat and non-vegetarian food on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day or Republic Day.

Criticising the move, NCP (SP)'s Jitendra Awhad questioned why residents were being told what to eat on Independence Day, while Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray demanded the suspension of Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation commissioner.

According to the BJP spokesperson, "Even during the rule of Maha Vikas Aghadi when Uddhav Thackeray was the CM, such a decision was implemented. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation, which was under state administration, had enforced the ban on slaughterhouses and meat shops in 2021 and 2022."
Surat, Aug 13 : Under the "Tapi ke Taare" project, 28 tribal students from 15 government schools in Gujarat's Tapi district took their first-ever flight and travelled to Chennai to visit ISRO's renowned Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, an experience that has left a lasting mark on their aspirations.

The students returned to Surat airport on Wednesday, where they were welcomed by the Gujarat Tribal Development as well as Education Minister Kuber Dindor, Forest and Environment Minister and Tapi district in-charge Mukesh Patel, and district officials.

In an interactive session at the airport conference hall, the young visitors shared their excitement over seeing India's space programme up close, from rocket launch towers to vehicle assembly buildings.

Minister Dindor hailed the initiative as "inspirational" and a first-of-its-kind effort in Gujarat, aimed at fostering scientific thinking among tribal students.

"Such educational exposure tours will soon be implemented in other tribal districts as well," he said, adding that these trips are like a "stepping stone" towards careers in science, technology, and space research.

Quoting national leaders, Minister Dindor linked the mission to India's scientific vision -- from Lal Bahadur Shastri's 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan' to Atal Bihari Vajpayee's addition of 'Jai Vigyan', and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Jai Anusandhan'.

Minister Patel praised the students, calling them "a shining example of talent and brilliance in government schools".

He noted that the educational tour exposed them to ISRO's research, India's space achievements, and new cultural experiences -- from tasting Chennai's dosas to understanding rocket science.

The selection process for the tour involved a 100-mark test based on Class 9 and 10 science curriculum, ensuring the brightest candidates were chosen.

Students unanimously described the ISRO visit as "life-changing", citing their exposure to rocket assembly, launch processes, satellite applications, and the challenges of working in space.

The experience, they said, has inspired them to aim for careers in science and space exploration.

Officials, including Tapi District Collector Jayantsinh Rathod and Joint Director of Information Amit Gadhvi were also present at the welcome event.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The overall gross exports of gems & jewellery registered a robust increase of 15.98 per cent to $2.18 billion (Rs 18,756.28 crore) during July this year, as compared to $1.88 billion (Rs 15,700 crore) for the same month of the previous year, according to data released by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on Wednesday.

On the other hand, the overall gross imports of gems & jewellery witnessed a growth of 26.55 per cent to $1.8 billion (Rs 15,587.73 crore) in July 2025, as compared to $1.43 billion (Rs 11,956.04 crore) for the same period of the previous year.

This massive rise is due to the expedited trade activities during July as a preventive measure against tariff threats kicking in from August 2025 onwards. As India heads into the festive season, and following this is the holiday season in the West, a major part of the trade has already been concluded in July 2025, the GJEPC said.

Along with this, multiple factors beyond seasonal demand, like product diversification into lightweight and contemporary designs, appealed to younger global consumers, while improved market access through trade agreements like the India-UAE CEPA enhanced competitiveness, the statement said.

The overall gross export of cut & polished diamonds recorded $1.07 billion (Rs 9,230.66 crore) in July 2025, reflecting a growth of 17.76 per cent as compared to $910.13 million (Rs 7,608.79 crore) for the same month of the previous year. This can be attributed to increased stocking by global buyers anticipating price fluctuations. Enhanced efficiency in manufacturing, better quality standards, and growing penetration into emerging markets further contributed to the export momentum, the GJEPC statement said.

Similarly, the overall gross imports of cut & polished diamonds grew by 32.02 per cent to $113.75 million (Rs 980.65 crore) in July as compared to $86.16 million (Rs 720.13 crore) for the same month of the previous year, as manufacturers and traders stepped up inventory purchases ahead of the festive and wedding seasons.

The data also show that the gross imports of rough diamonds at $4.37 billion (Rs 37,475.56 crore) between April 2025 and July 2025 have shown a growth of 1.48 per cent (4.21 per cent in rupee terms), compared with the imports at $4.3 billion (Rs 35,962.94 crore) for the previous year. With the uncertainty of trade tariffs and further depreciation of INR, traders have stocked rough diamonds, which can be processed to cater to the demand during the festive season, and this is likely to see a growth in demand not only in the home ground but also in other markets like the UAE and UK.

Kama Jewellery MD Colin Shah said: "The gems & jewellery exports are witnessing a dynamic shift, earlier due to the geopolitical tensions and now the tariff complexities. The strong performance in July 2025 is a cautionary uptick ahead of a freefall in cross-border business activities. While trade agreements have opened new avenues, challenges like high gold prices, economic uncertainties, and volatile metal markets continue."

"It is important to monitor the development of the India-US bilateral trade talks closely, as that would decide the further course of trade activities between both countries. With the current imposed 50 per cent trade tariffs, it will be difficult to maintain this growth, but domestic demand for gold is now likely to gain momentum with the start of Indian festivities and wedding season, which will be a relief for the industry," he added.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 : Karnataka Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi, along with other senior leaders, met former minister K.N. Rajanna, who was recently dropped from the cabinet over his remarks regarding the voter fraud protest, and offered him moral support on Wednesday in Bengaluru.

Both Satish Jarkiholi and Rajanna are close associates of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Speaking to reporters after meeting Rajanna, Jarkiholi stated, "People will drift away when power is lost. However, we are here to send a message that we stand with Rajanna. There is a misunderstanding by the Delhi leadership, and we will convince them."

He added, "Rajanna has served as a minister for two years. We will go to Delhi and meet the high command. The cabinet post that was taken away from Rajanna should be given to a leader from the Valmiki community. The decision on re-inducting Rajanna into the cabinet lies with the high command."

"Two leaders from the Valmiki community have been removed from the cabinet. We will demand cabinet berths for the community," he maintained.

Answering a question, Jarkiholi stated that Rajanna himself should clarify why he was dropped from the cabinet.

"It is common for the lion to roar. Rajanna has indicated that there is a conspiracy behind his removal," he said.

Meanwhile, BJP senior leader and former minister B. Sriramulu, speaking in Bengaluru, extended an open invitation for Rajanna to join the BJP.

"Let Rajanna join the BJP. The whole community will stand behind him. You, Rajanna, come to our party along with your son, Congress MLC Rajendra Rajanna. We will ensure that you receive the same respect and honour in our party as we do. In fact, we will ensure you are given even greater respect," Sriramulu appealed.

On the other hand, a large number of Rajanna supporters gathered in front of the Town Hall building in Tumakuru city and held a rally condemning his removal by the Congress party. The protestors carried photographs and posters of Rajanna and raised slogans in his favour.

They later submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, appealing to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to reinstate Rajanna in the cabinet.

Sources said that Rajanna has remained quiet while strategising his future moves. As a close associate of CM Siddaramaiah, he has been advised by the Chief Minister not to act hastily or issue statements that could be damaging. Rajanna has been told to wait for the right time, until the Bihar elections are over.

Rajanna, who was the State Cooperation Minister, was asked to submit his resignation after his remark against the LoP Rahul Gandhi's press conference in Delhi and protest in Bengaluru on the voter fraud. "If there was voter fraud, Congress should have pointed it out much earlier," he had said.
Amaravati, Aug 13 : AICC in-charge for Andhra Pradesh Manickam Tagore on Wednesday hit back at former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy after he alleged that Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi is in touch with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu through hotline.

The Congress MP said that the people of Andhra Pradesh know that Chandrababu Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Jagan and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan are together.

Tagore also told Jagan that Rahul Gandhi has not surrendered to PM Modi and HM Shah like him. He dared Jagan to join the Congress party's fight against 'vote chori'. He said instead of appreciating Rahul Gandhi for the fight to protect democracy, Jagan gave his own imaginary stories.

At a press conference in Amaravti on Wednesday, Jagan ruled out support to the Congress party's fight against 'vote chori'.

Questioning the silence of Rahul Gandhi on the 'vote chori' issue raised by YSRCP after last year's elections, Jagan alleged that Chandrababu Naidu was in touch with Rahul Gandhi through Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

"Why didn't join us when we raised a similar issue after the 2024 elections, where there was a variation of 12 percent between the votes polled and counted," asked Jagan Mohan Reddy.

The YSRCP chief also questioned Rahul Gandhi's silence on what he called the corruption of TDP-led coalition government. "Congress spokesperson Manickam Tagore criticizes only me, as Chandrababu Naidu is in touch with Rahul Gandhi through a hotline, or else how can he show a blind eye on the corruption of the coalition government with the mushrooming of belt shops, permit rooms, and selling liquor at more than MRP," he asked.

In a video statement posted on 'X', Manickam Tagore said Rahul Gandhi was not fighting for Congress alone but he was fighting for democracy.

"He has surrendered to (Amit) Shah and he is not afraid of Modi like Jagan. We are fighting the battle against HM Shah and PM Modi to protect India's democratic rights," the Congress MP said.

He alleged that in 39 to 48 Lok Sabha constituencies, Amit Shah organised manipulation with the Election Commissioners

He said Rahul Gandhi was embarking on yatra in Bihar on the issue of SIR to protect people's right to vote.

"Jagan must have minimum courtesy to acknowledge and appreciate work of Rahul Gandhi instead of finding fault and giving his own imaginary stories about Babu and other stories," he said.

Tagore said if Jagan has guts to fight against Modi and Shah, he should join the march to be led by state Congress president Y. S. Sharmila on August 14 in Vijayawada.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) general secretary also reacted to Jagan's remark saying their only true 'hotline' is with the people of Andhra Pradesh.

"Forget your 'vote chori' excuses  you were voted out because people were tired of your 'note chori' in scam after scam. You know exactly what I'm talking about," posted Lokesh, who is son of Chandrababu Naidu.

Your baseless attempts to mislead will fail. Our double-engine sarkar is here to deliver, and under the leadership of Narendra Modi and Chandrababu Naidu, Andhra Pradesh will rise to number one again, he added.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : In a significant crackdown on financial fraud and tax evasion, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Indore Sub Zonal Office, has issued a Provisional Attachment Order worth Rs 11.33 crore against businessman Kishore Wadhwani, his family members, and Dabang Duniya Publications Pvt. Ltd.

The order, dated August 12, 2025, includes immovable assets such as land and flats, whose current market value exceeds Rs 20 crore.

This action is part of an ongoing investigation into a complex money laundering scheme linked to illegal cigarette trade and media manipulation, the investigation agency has said.

The probe was initiated following an FIR registered by Tukoganj Police Station, Indore, under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code. The FIR accuses Wadhwani, his nephew Nitesh Wadhwani, and others of conspiring to convert illicit earnings into legitimate income, said the statement.

Central to the case is the alleged nexus between Dabang Duniya Publications and Elora Tobacco Co. Ltd., a company found to be involved in clandestine cigarette manufacturing and distribution.

According to enforcement officials, proceeds from the unaccounted sale of cigarettes were laundered through Dabang Duniyaas accounts using inflated newspaper circulation figures and fictitious advertisement invoices, the statement said.

Investigators uncovered hundreds of fake tax documents and discovered that the actual circulation of the newspaper was grossly overstated.

Vehicles used for transporting tobacco products reportedly bore press stickers of Dabang Duniya, and drivers carried media identity cards to evade scrutiny, the statement said.

Kishore Wadhwani, who was previously arrested under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act for evading taxes, is also facing charges of forgery, cheating, and criminal conspiracy.

His wife Poonam and nephew Nitesh have been named as co-accused in the case, the statement said.

The EDas attachment order is seen as a major step in dismantling the laundering network that allegedly used media operations as a front for tax evasion.

Further investigation is underway to trace additional assets and uncover the full extent of the financial irregularities. As the case unfolds, it continues to expose the deep entanglement of business, media, and illicit trade in one of Indiaas largest tax evasion scandals.
Mumbai, Aug 13 : Softer lending rates in the Indian economy due to the transmission of the RBI's repo rate cuts to other rates, such as bank lending rates and deposit rates, continued in July, leading to an improvement in financial conditions during the month, according to a report released on Wednesday.

Key bank lending rates, such as the one-year marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR) and auto loan rate, eased 15 bps to 8.75 per cent and 7 bps, respectively to 9.19 per cent, while deposit rates eased 3 bps to 6.37 per cent during the month making it cheaper for banks to raise funds, the Crisil Research report said.

The weighted average lending rate (WALR) on fresh rupee loans has eased sharply as well. As per the latest available data, the WALR eased 58 bps on-month to 8.62 per cent in June, the lowest since October 2022.

The surplus in systemic liquidity also inched up in July, led by increased government spending and a decline in currency in circulation, pulling down money market rates further.

The RBIas Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reduced the policy rate by 100 basis points (bps) between February and June. As lending rates eased, bank credit growth improved, but remained weaker than in the January-March quarter.

Bank credit growth has improved in the past two months now. Sectoral data, available till June, indicates credit growth picked up in the personal loans, services and industry segments.

However, concerns about US tariffs weighed on markets ahead of the August 1 deadline, with equity markets ending July lower than June. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) were net sellers of equities.

The 10-year government security (G-sec) yield saw an uptick towards the end of the month, driven by mild FPI outflows in debt in the second half of the month. The yield rose in June and July despite rate cuts, leading to a sharp rise in the term premium.

For the fourth straight month, systemic liquidity remained in surplus, which widened a tad in July compared with June. The RBI net absorbed Rs 3 lakh crore in July, slightly higher than the Rs 2.7 lakh crore in June. The higher surplus was supported by an increase in government spending and a decline in currency in circulation, the report said.

Another positive for the economy was that crude oil prices remained broadly stable at $71 per barrel from $71.5 amid the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies increasing oil output, the report added.
Motor insurers are ramping up competition in the electric vehicle (EV) sector as battery-electric models move further into the mainstream, according to new analysis from Consumer Intelligence.

Its data shows that 11 new insurance products began quoting for EVs on a major price comparison website in 2024, compared with just three or four for petrol, diesel or hybrid models. New offerings increasingly include tailored features such as charging equipment cover, EV-specific breakdown support and even carbon offsetting options.

The shift in underwriting appetite comes amid buoyant sales. Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) figures reveal that new BEV registrations rose 35.2% in the first four months of 2025 versus the same period last year, while petrol sales dropped 10% and diesel fell 13.2%.

After sharp premium rises in 2023, rates are now easing as repair network capacity expands, turnround times improve, and richer claims data allows for more accurate pricing. According to Consumer Intelligence, the risk profiles of EV drivers are now converging with petrol and diesel motorists. In some cases, insurers have cut EV premiums by up to 18%.

One insurer increased its EV quotability by 40 percentage points, gaining a 12% rise in its share of the top five quote positions. EV quotability is the frequency with which an insurer returns a valid price for an electric vehicle on a price comparison site, It is a key measure of underwriting appetite and market availability.

However, EV premiums remain comparatively high, reflecting costlier claims caused by specialist repair needs and battery complexities. Regional variation persists, with April prices higher in the South East than the North West due to differences in congestion, theft and claims rates.

As BEVs become more mainstream, insurers are no longer treating them as niche risks, said Ian Hughes, chief executive of Consumer Intelligence. Thats creating space for more confident, competitive pricing. While sales remain just short of the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate target of 22%, the trajectory is unmistakable  the shift is accelerating and insurers are responding.

"Motor insurers charge into EV market as competition accelerates" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand.




Beijing/New Delhi, Aug 13 : Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to visit India on August 18 for talks under the Special Representative mechanism, reports indicated on Wednesday.

The visit is scheduled to take place shortly before Prime Minister Narendra Modi travels to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit scheduled to take place at Tianjin later this month.

On August 8, China stated that it welcomes PM Modi's participation in the SCO Summit.

At a briefing on Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said: "China welcomes Prime Minister Modi to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit. We believe that with the concerted effort of all parties, the Tianjin summit will be a gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results, and the SCO will enter a new stage of high-quality development featuring greater solidarity, coordination, dynamism and productiveness."

"China will host the SCO Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1 this year. Leaders of over 20 countries, including all member states of the SCO and heads of 10 international organisations, will attend relevant events. The SCO Tianjin Summit will be the largest summit in scale since the establishment of the SCO," he added.

PM Modi is set to travel to China to attend the SCO Summit to be held in Tianjin from August 31-September 1. This will be his first visit to China since the Galwan clash in 2020, which severely strained bilateral ties.

The breakthrough in bilateral talks, first after the Galwan Valley face-off between the soldiers of the two countries at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in June 2020, was made possible after India and China reached an agreement on patrolling along the nearly 3500-km LAC to end the four-year-long border confrontation.

In July, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited China to attend the Meeting of the Council of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Tianjin. He also held discussions with his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the meeting. He also called on Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with his fellow SCO Foreign Ministers.

Earlier in June, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited China to attend the SCO Defence Ministers Meeting. India had refused to endorse the joint declaration at the SCO Defence Ministersa meeting, citing the exclusion of concerns around terrorism as a key reason.

India stated that it wanted concerns about terrorism reflected in the document, which was not acceptable to one particular country; therefore, the statement was not adopted. During his visit, Singh met his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Don Jun, and the two leaders had a "constructive and forward-looking exchange of views" on issues related to bilateral ties.

In June, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval also visited China to attend the 20th Meeting of the SCO Security Council Secretaries. In his intervention at the meeting, he highlighted the need to shun double standards in the fight against terrorism and take decisive actions against UN-proscribed terrorists and entities like LeT, JeM and their proxies and dismantle their terror eco-systems.
Islamabad, Aug 13 : A leading minority rights group on Wednesday drew attention to the cold-blooded murder of a Pakistani youth from the Christian community in Sialkot city of Punjab province amid an escalating wave of violence against the religious minorities in Pakistan.

The Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM) mentioned that 25-year-old Habroon C Qaiser, a member of a respected political family in Pakistan, who was dedicated to the values of "community, faith, and dignity", had his life stolen a" a tragedy that now demands justice.

"This was not just a murder. This was a message. And that message is chilling: that minorities in Pakistan can be targetted without fear of consequence. For Pakistan's Christians, Habroon's killing is a painful reminder that they live in constant danger. Every church attack, every forced conversion, every hate-fueled assault chips away at their sense of safety. This latest act of violence is not an isolated tragedy a" it is part of a relentless pattern that has gone on for decades," read a statement issued by the VOPM.

Pastor Imran Amanat, one of the most prominent voices for minority rights in Pakistan, said that he will not allow this case to vanish into the ever growing list of "unsolved crimes".

"We are not mourning quietly in the shadows. We demand justice. And we will keep demanding until the murderers are behind bars. This was not just an attack on Habroon, but on the safety, dignity, and very existence of our community," VOPM quoted Amanat as saying.

The rights group said it cannot afford to wait for another funeral to raise its voice, urging the international community to act immediately, "not with hollow statements, but with real pressure on the Pakistani government". It also called on diplomatic channels, human rights watchdogs, and global church networks to demand "accountability and protection for religious minorities".

Slamming the Pakistani authorities, the VOPM highlighted that for years their assurances to safeguard the minorities amounted to nothing "more than political theatre".

It warned that "if the killers of Habroon C Qaiser are not found and punished swiftly, it will send a clear signal to extremists that minorities are fair game".
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has approved an additional 1.47 lakh pucca houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0 in 14 states and UTs as part of the Centre's 'Housing for All' policy, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

The total houses approved are 1,46,582 across 14 states and UTs -- Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Odisha, Puducherry, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. With this approval, the total number of houses sanctioned under PMAY-U 2.0 is now 8.56 lakh, the statement said.

The decision was taken during the fourth meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Housing and Urban Affairs Secretary Srinivas Katikithala.

The sanctioned houses will cater to the housing needs of the urban poor, helping them gain access to affordable and dignified pucca houses with basic amenities, the statement said.

Addressing the meeting, Katikithala urged the states and UTs to emphasise aligning housing projects with infrastructure corridors to promote integrated urban development. "States/UTs should strategically plan and locate housing projects in areas that have enhanced connectivity, economic activity and better access to services," he said.

The JS&MD, HFA apprised the Secretary about the status of implementation of PMAY-U 2.0 and said that the larger states, particularly metro cities, should bring proposals to the committee CSMC with a focus on affordable housing in partnership (AHP) vertical of the scheme under which group housing projects are constructed.

Under the schemes, more than 120 lakh houses have been sanctioned, of which 93.81 lakh pucca houses have already been constructed and delivered to the beneficiaries. Aligning with the goal of aHousing for Alla, the scheme was revamped and launched as PMAY-U 2.0 in September 2024. One crore additional urban families will receive financial support of up to Rs 2.50 lakh from the government to construct or purchase a pucca house in cities. Families belonging to the economically weaker sections, lower-income groups and middle-income groups who do not own a pucca house anywhere in the country are eligible for benefits under PMAY-U 2.0.

Among the key highlights of the meeting is the focus on women's empowerment and building a more inclusive and equitable society. About 75,417 houses have been sanctioned for women alone, including single women and widows, reaffirming the governmentas commitment to empowering women with access to a safe and dignified living. Additionally, Uttar Pradesh has sanctioned 1,166 houses for senior citizens.

Furthermore, 12 houses have been allotted to transgenders. Among the different underprivileged groups - 32,551 houses were allotted in the name of SC beneficiaries, 5,025 houses for ST beneficiaries, and 58,375 for the OBC.

Eligible individuals can apply for the Scheme directly through https://pmay-urban.gov.in/ or contact their ULB for assistance.
Quetta, Aug 13 : A Baloch woman has been staging a sit-in protest outside the Quetta Press Club in Balochistan for the last nine days, demanding justice for her killed son amid constant threats from Pakistani law enforcement agencies to remain silent.

A leading human rights organisation, Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), mentioned on Wednesday that on June 3, 17-year-old Ehsan Syed, son of Syed Manzoor Shah and a resident of Mastung district in Balochistan, was fatally shot by the personnel of Pakistan's Federal Constabulary (FC) near the LakPass Tunnel checkpoint.

"Since his death, the family has been subjected to pressure, intimidation, and threats to abandon their pursuit of justice. On 5th August 2025, they set up a protest camp in front of the Quetta Press Club, refusing to leave despite constant harassment," the BYC stated.

"Today, Quetta police escalated their intimidation, arriving at the camp, threatening the family, and forcibly seizing their banners, carpets, and other necessary items. They told Ehsan's mother she could not keep the camp, yet she continues to hold her ground, demanding accountability for her son's killing," it added.

Meanwhile, the BYC stated that marking the ninth consecutive day, another Baloch family held a sit-in outside the Karachi Press Club in protest against the enforced disappearance of their son by Pakistani forces

Zahid Ali, a 25-year-old International Relations student at the University of Karachi, was forcibly disappeared on July 17, along with his rickshaw that he drove part-time to support his family.

"It has now been 28 days since Zahid's disappearance. Authorities remain silent, offering no answers and no justice. His case is one of countless enforced disappearances targetting Baloch youth in Karachi and Balochistan," said the BYC.

The rights body called on students, activists, journalists, and all concerned citizens to join the camp, amplify the family's voice, and demand justice.

People from Balochistan are currently fighting for their independence from Pakistan. Various human rights organisations of Balochistan have time and again highlighted the repression by Pakistani forces in the province, which includes violent raids on the homes of Baloch leaders and civilians, unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances, the 'kill and dump' policy, detention under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, and the filing of fabricated police cases.
Quetta, Aug 13 : Leading Baloch human rights defender Mir Yar Baloch on Wednesday asserted that the US President Donald Trump has committed a "strategic blunder" by assuring Pakistan access to Balochistan's vast and untapped mineral wealth.

Quetta, Aug 13 (IANS) Leading Baloch human rights defender Mir Yar Baloch on Wednesday asserted that the US President Donald Trump has committed a "strategic blunder" by assuring Pakistan access to Balochistan's vast and untapped mineral wealth.

Mir stated that Balochistan will not allow its rare earth minerals to be exploited by Pakistan for purposes that undermine global peace and stability.

Within just 48 hours of this assurance, the human rights activist said, Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Maulana Munir brazenly threatened to "bring down half the world with nuclear weapons" and vowed to destroy major dams inside India's sovereign territory.

Following this, Mir pointed out that Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto, and "puppet" Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif amplified this "reckless and dangerous rhetoric".

"The world, particularly the United States, made a grave mistake in the past by overlooking Pakistan's access to nuclear weapons, which today have become a serious threat and liability to peace across the entire region," Mir posted on X.

"Pakistan's nuclear arsenal is now being recklessly brandished; its Prime Minister repeatedly advocates for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, the same Iran that openly threatens to wipe America's ally Israel off the map, while Pakistan's Army Chief has spoken of dragging 'half the world down' in nuclear destruction," the post added.

Raising concerns, Mir said that if under President Trump's leadership, the US grants Pakistan access to Balochistan's vast mineral resources for its narrow interests, it would be "akin to handing a loaded gun or a razor to a monkey", a reckless act that could bring devastation not only upon Pakistan itself but also upon the rest of the world, a danger that Army Chief Asim Munir has already signalled.

He emphasised that if Pakistani extremists are allowed to seize illegal control of Balochistan's oil, gas, uranium, gold, silver, copper, and other rare earth resources worth trillions of dollars, the "scale of their terrorism will reach unprecedented, catastrophic proportions, threatening not only South Asia, but the stability of the entire planet."

Stressing that the world is now confronting an unavoidable reality, Mir said trading with Pakistan, arming its terrorist military, or partnering with it in any form is not mere "recklessness", it is an act of "global self-destruction, a gamble with global security, jeopardizing the safety and security" of all humankind.

"Being a responsible country, the Republic of Balochistan remains steadfast in its commitment to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Its people will never allow their rare earth resources to be plundered by Pakistan's radical army to finance nuclear blackmail, orchestrate another 9/11-style attack, or continue sheltering international terrorist networks such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda sleeper cells located deep inside Pakistan's Punjab province," he mentioned.

Mir called upon global powers to act decisively, working in unity to dismantle Pakistan's double game and shut down the terror factories run by its notorious Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and its network of paid extremist proxies. He cautioned that the cost of inaction will be measured in global insecurity and the lives of countless innocents.
Jabalpur, Aug 13 : Three days have passed since a daylight bank robbery that has shaken Jabalpur, the cultural capital of Madhya Pradesh, when a gang of armed men looted gold and cash worth more than Rs 10 crore, the district police was yet to crackdown the case.

Around 50 people, including bank employees, suspects and miscreants involved in various theft incidents in the local areas have been questioned in the past three days, however, police is yet to find any conclusive lead to trace the robbers.

This broad daylight bank robbery has brought Jabalpur district police on its toes.

Nearly one dozen of teams from several police stations in the district, including Sihora, where the incident occurred, have been deployed and searches were being carried out extensively.

Jabalpur Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Suryakant Sharma, while talking to IANS on Wednesday evening, said that police have received some inputs and extensive searches are being carried, and the accused persons would be arrested as soon as possible.

"We have received some key inputs and investigation is still underway, but we can't say that we have reached to any conclusion until the accused persons are arrested. Yes, at this stage, I can say that Jabalpur police is very determined to crackdown this case," ASP Sharma added.

Responding on whether the police have got any conclusive evidences that could lead to their identification, the police officer said that the robbers had bore helmets and mask to hide their faces.

"More than 100 CCTV cameras installed at various locations in the city, including petrol pumps and private homes were scanned, but they could not be identified," he added.

ASP Sharma also denied the possibility of the involvement of people from outside Madhya Pradesh.

When asked about any possible involvement of a bank employee, he said, "It can't be denied. We are investigating from various angles."

"On the basis of inputs received so far, we can say that there no involvement of outsiders in this case. One of whom had a firearm tucked under his belt, has been identified, and there are a lot more things which can't be disclosed until the case is solved," he added.

Five to six armed men, covering their faces with helmet and masks entered into a ESAF Small Finance Bank in Khitola area in Sehora tehsil of Jabalpur district on morning of August 11 and fled with 14 grams of gold jewellery and Rs 5.7 lakh in cash, of total worth more than Rs 10 crore.

The early morning robbery which was caught on the CCTV cameras, happened at the bank, which didn't have a security guard.

Five to six staffers were present in the bank at the time of the robbery committed by the five men, who came on motorcycles.

Surprisingly, the incident was told to the local police by the bank staffers, around 45 minutes after the robbery.

The concerned bank gave loans against mortgaged gold.

The bank usually starts operations daily at 10:30 a.m., but due to the festive season it is currently opening daily between 8 and 9 a.m.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : In a big setback to the Congress government in Telangana, the Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed the appointment of M. Kodandaram and Amer Ali Khan as Members of Legislative Council (MLCs) under the Governor's quota.

The apex court's stay order came on a petition filed by Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders Dasoju Sravan and Kurra Satyanarayana, challenging the nominations made by the state government.

The order came nearly a year after Kodandaram and Amer Ali Khan were sworn in as MLCs.

The petitioners had challenged the appointments on the ground that they had violated interim orders of the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court observed that swearing-in after the interim orders was improper and made it clear that any appointments made under the Governoras quota would be subject to the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings.

While Kodandaram is the President of Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS), Amer Ali Khan is the News Editor of the Urdu daily aSiasata

Both Kodandaram and Amer Ali Khan were nominated to the Council under the Governoras quota after the state Cabinet again sent the recommendation to the Governor in early August last year.

They were nominated as MLCs in January, 2024 but the High Court had set aside the appointments in March on the petitions by Sravan and Satyanarayana, whose nomination as MLCs was recommended by the previous government of BRS in July 2023 but the same was rejected by then Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan on the ground that the two were "politically aligned persons".

The High Court had quashed the Governoras decision, rejecting the nominations of Sravan and Satyanarayana, and held that the Governor can only return the governmentas recommendation for reconsideration.

Following the High Court order, the BRS leaders had requested the Governor to nominate them as MLCs. However, as the BRS had lost power to Congress, the Governor rejected the request.

Sravan and Satyanarayana had challenged the Governoras refusal in the Supreme Court. As the High Court had not passed any orders to the Governor to nominate them, they pleaded with the apex court to give direction to the Governor to appoint them. The Supreme Court declined to pass any orders but made it clear that if the state and the Governor proceed further with appointing Congress nominees in the two vacant slots in the meantime, such appointments would be subject to the outcome of the pleas.

The state Cabinet on August 1, 2024, decided to once again recommend the nomination of Kodandaram and Amer Ali Khan as MLCs under the governoras quota.

They were sworn in after the Supreme Court stayed the operation of the Telangana High Court judgment quashing the decision of then-Governor Soundararajan to reject the nomination of BRS leaders as MLCs.

Welcoming the stay order, BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao termed it a blow to the BJP and Congress.

"In the past, when the BJP misused the Governoras system to obstruct the proposals of two MLCs sent by the BRS, the Congress, which came to power later, recommended two other names while the process was still pending, thereby mocking democracy," he said on X.

BRS MLC K. Kavitha also hailed the decision of the Supreme Court. "If the BJP does not respect the great Indian Constitution, defeat is inevitable, and it should realise this now," she said on X.

She said that in the past, the BJP, by using the Governor as a shield, obstructed the appointments of MLCs recommended by her father and then Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Raoas government under the Governoras quota.
Pune, Aug 13 : In a dramatic turn in the ongoing defamation case against Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader has publicly disowned a legal application filed in his name before a Pune court, which claimed he faced a threat to his life.

The application, submitted on August 13 by Advocate Milind D. Pawar, cited grave apprehensions regarding Rahul Gandhi's safety due to the lineage and ideological affiliations of the complainant, Satyaki Savarkar, a descendant of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Nathuram Godse.

However, hours after the plea made headlines, Pawar issued a press release admitting that the application was filed without Gandhi's instructions or consent.

Pawar further confirmed that Gandhi had taken strong exception to the filing and expressed clear disagreement with its content: "The Pursis dated 13.08.2025 was filed by me in the Court without Instructions from the client. The contents of the Pursis were drafted by me without consulting my client Shri. Rahul Gandhi. My client has taken strong exception to filing of this Pursis dated 13.08.2025 and has expressed his disagreement with the contents of the Pursis. I shall file a formal application tomorrow for withdrawal of the said Pursis before the Hon'ble Court."

A formal application for withdrawal of the plea is expected to be submitted to the court on August 14. The original application had sought "preventive protection" for Rahul Gandhi, citing threats from political opponents and referencing controversial remarks made by BJP leaders.

It also highlighted the complainant's familial ties to individuals involved in Mahatma Gandhi's assassination, arguing that such lineage posed a risk to Rahul Gandhi's safety and the fairness of the legal proceedings.

The defamation case itself stems from Rahul Gandhi's 2023 speech in London, where he allegedly referenced an incident from Savarkar's writings involving violence against a Muslim man.

Satyaki Savarkar has denied the existence of such an account and filed a complaint seeking Gandhi's conviction under Section 500 of the IPC.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate clarified that the party had no role in the filing of the threat application and reiterated Gandhi's disagreement with its content.

The episode has sparked political debate, with critics accusing the Congress of attempting to delay the trial, while supporters argue that the withdrawal reflects Gandhi's commitment to due process and judicial integrity. The case will next be heard on September 10.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), on Wednesday, urged the food manufacturing industry to make "truthful and honest declarations" on food labels and packages.

At the National Stakeholder Consultation on aComprehensive analysis of Regulatory Framework on Food Labelling, Advertisement and Claims', held at the Vigyan Bhawan, here, the FSSAI underlined the collective responsibility to ensure that the information on food packages are accurate, transparent, and truthful, enabling consumers to make informed, safe, and healthy choices with absolute confidence.

In her inaugural address, Health and Family Welfare Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasised the importance of ethical and truthful practices in labelling and advertising in the food sector.

"Things are changing rapidly today. We are now exposed to the entire world, which means we must adopt many positive changes and best practices, while also scrutinising food products more closely. In this fast-moving world, consultations like this are vital," Srivastava added.

Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare urged the industry to "make truthful and honest declarations and voluntarily come out and say what the product contains and desist from misleading advertisements and manipulative practices".

"Food labelling should not just be a marketing tool, but it should also be treated as the most essential factor of trust between a manufacturer and a consumer. We want a truthful and honest declaration of whatever is contained in the food product, and the consumer should be left to make the final choice," she added.

The consultation brought together around 700 representatives from government departments, scientific experts, and food businesses, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of existing regulations.

The experts also addressed implementation challenges and explored ways to align with global standards to strengthen consumer protection, foster public health.

The event formed part of an ongoing series of national-level stakeholder dialogues designed to address key regulatory issues requiring multi-stakeholder engagement.

By working closely with industry, academia, consumer groups, farmer organisations, and regulatory bodies, the FSSAI aims to integrate sector-specific perspectives and ground-level insights into its regulatory framework, ensuring that policies remain both practical and aligned with public health priorities.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 : The Odisha Cabinet, on Wednesday, approved the establishment of a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar, marking a major move to position Odisha as a key hub for aviation services in the region.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the state Cabinet held here under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

According to an official statement issued by the Odisha government, "this will be the first major MRO facility in eastern India and a key milestone under the Odisha government's vision to strengthen civil aviation infrastructure through the B-MAAN (Building Management of Aviation Assets and Network) scheme."

The Odisha Cabinet also approved a special package of additional incentives -- over and above the provisions under the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR), 2022, to attract private sector participation in the capital-intensive MRO sector.

"Following a rigorous evaluation process, M/s Air Works India (Engineering) Private Limited, India's oldest and largest third-party MRO provider, has been selected as the anchor investor to establish and operate the facility. The Commerce and Transport Department will oversee the implementation, while the High-Power Committee on Aviation will facilitate project rollout and monitoring," the government said.

Highlighting the future prospects of the MRO industry, the state government noted that the exponential rise in the aviation sector presents a strong case for the development of the MRO industry.

The NITI Aayog report mentions that the MRO industry in India is expected to reach $4 billion by 2031, at a compound annual growth rate of 8.9 per cent.

In another significant decision, the state Cabinet, on Wednesday, approved the proposal of the Odisha Cooperation department regarding the setting up of "Model Mandi" across the state.

These Model Mandis are designed to provide seamless and efficient platforms for farmers, traders and other stakeholders by integrating all essential marketing activities under one roof, with upgraded infrastructure and digital systems.

"The main objective of the scheme is to develop an efficient agri-marketing ecosystem by providing integrated and modern agri-marketing infrastructure, promoting transparency in agricultural trade, facilitating direct market linkages, utilising updated technological know-how, so that ultimately, farmers can fetch better prices for their produce," government sources said.

These model mandis will have modern storage space, raised concrete drying platforms, cover sheds, quality testing kiosks, cooling chambers, farmers' rest-sheds, clean toilets, separate facilities for women farmers, eateries/canteens, vending zones, bank branches and ATMs, proper vehicle parking space, electronic weigh bridges, retail outlets relevant to the farming community waste disposal facility, etc.

In the first phase, the 38 existing mandis have been identified for this purpose across all the 30 districts of the state.

The 38 proposed model mandis include 14 large, 17 medium and seven small mandis.

Another 62 mandis will be developed as model mandis and the process of identification has already started.

aThese model mandis will be developed by Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation Ltd. (OBCC). Odisha State Agricultural Marketing Board (OSAM Board) will monitor the progress by establishing a Project Monitoring Cell and obtaining services of any professional agency, if required," government sources added.

The state Cabinet approved the sanction for funding of the implementation of LED public street lighting project in 110 Urban Local Bodies in Odisha at a cost of Rs 350 crore from the Odisha Urban Infrastructure Development Fund.

Several other key proposals also got the approval of the state Cabinet in its meeting on Wednesday.
For decades, NASA built and flew its own relay orbiters and spacecraft to ferry valuable data back to Earth. Now the agency is shifting to buying connectivity as a service, much like it does for launch and astronaut transport.

That pivot has sparked a race, with major contenders pitching ways to keep Mars missions online. Whats at stake isnt a single contract: its the data pipe to Mars.

This new approach, which will mix NASA assets and commercial infrastructure, would gradually replace the patchwork relay network the agency relies on today. Generally, that works by orbiters like Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and MAVEN that pick up data from rovers and landers and transmit it to the Deep Space Networks (DSN) giant antennas on Earth.

NASAs relay spacecraft are still healthy, but they were never meant to be a permanent backbone. The agencys latest senior review on planetary missions calls out MAVENs critical role as a relay and provides steps to keep it available into the early 2030s. But eventually, this hardware will decay.

At the same time, NASAs Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program, which manages the DSN, is looking for solutions to augment these aging assets. The aim, according to an RFP released in July and due today, is to create an interoperable marketplace where NASA can be one of many customers instead of the owner-operator.

The current request is specifically for capability studies, not immediate hardware buys. The ask is twofold: a lunar trunkline between the moon and Earth and end-to-end Mars communications that move data from assets on the surface, through Mars orbit, and to operations centers on Earth.

Its a formidable challenge. Any architecture must contend with the vast distance between Earth and the moon and Mars, long latency, periodic solar interference and Earth visibility windows, and high requirements for fault-tolerant systems. Thats why NASA is asking for plans, to gauge how industry might solve these puzzles, rather than immediately jumping to procurement.

While TechCrunch cant confirm which companies are submitting concept proposals, a handful have already staked their place in the race.

Blue Origin just unveiled a Mars Telecommunications Orbiter built on its Blue Ring platform, pitched as maneuverable, high-performance spacecraft to support NASA missions to Mars as soon as 2028. Rocket Lab has touted its own Mars telecom orbiter concept, which the company says is a core element of its proposed architecture for the Mars Sample Return campaign.

In 2024, NASAs Mars Exploration Program separately funded 12 short commercial services studies, including a trio of studies for next-gen relay services, to SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, and Blue Origin. SpaceXs proposal to adapt Earth-orbit communication satellites for Mars will likely be derived from its Starlink internet satellite constellation.

The long-term goal is to transform the agencys planetary exploration agenda from pure-science missions to a permanent human presence on the moon and, eventually, on Mars.
New Delhi, Aug 13 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed India's landmark achievement of setting up 100 GW solar PV module manufacturing capacity aligned with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the global imperative for clean energy transition.

"This is yet another milestone towards self-reliance! It depicts the success of India's manufacturing capabilities and our efforts towards popularising clean energy," PM Modi said in a post on X.

The Prime Minister was responding to Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi's announcement of the historic milestone -100 GW Solar PV Module Manufacturing Capacity under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM). The minister highlighted that this was "a remarkable rise from just 2.3 GW in 2014".

"Driven by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and transformative initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for high-efficiency solar modules, we are building a robust, self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem. This achievement strengthens our path towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and the target of 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030," Minister Joshi said.

The government's commitment is to make India self-reliant in solar PV manufacturing and establish the country as a major player in the global value chain.

This commitment is supported through a comprehensive set of initiatives, including the PLI Scheme for High Efficiency Solar PV Modules and measures to provide a level playing field for the Indian manufacturers, he further stated.

The ALMM Order was issued by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on January 2, 2019.

The first ALMM list for solar PV modules was published on March 10, 2021, with an initial enlisted capacity of around 8.2 GW. In just over four years, this capacity has grown more than twelve-fold, crossing the 100 GW mark.

This remarkable expansion is not just limited to the depth of capacity achieved, but by the breadth of the number of manufacturers who have also significantly increased from 21 in 2021 to 100 manufacturers, who are operating 123 manufacturing units currently, according to an official statement.

This growth includes contributions from both established companies and new entrants, many of whom have adopted high-efficiency technologies and vertically integrated operations.

The result is a diverse and competitive manufacturing landscape capable of meeting domestic needs and serving global markets. The crossing of the 100 GW solar module manufacturing capacity underscores the success of India's solar PV manufacturing story, and the collective efforts of industry, various state governments, and the government of India, the statement added.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 : A special POCSO court in Jharsuguda district of Odisha on Wednesday sentenced a 54-year-old person to life imprisonment for raping a blind minor girl in Rengali police station area of the district in May this year.

As per the case details, on May 2, the victim, a blind minor girl, visited the accused Giridhari Naik's house to listen to the television. Being his neighbour, the victim would often visit his house for this purpose.

Taking advantage of the afternoon hours when his family was asleep, the accused Giridhari forcibly raped the girl by gagging her mouth. He had also threatened to kill the minor victim if she disclosed the crime to anyone.

However, on the next day, the victim disclosed the ordeal to her father, who subsequently lodged an FIR at the Rengali Police Station on May 6.

The local police immediately swung into action and arrested the accused Giridhari on May 8.

On May 28, the Jharsuguda Police, after completion of the investigation, submitted the chargesheet in the case, within 22 days of the filing of the case.

The court, after going through statements of witnesses and exhibits produced by the police, pronounced the judgment on Wednesday, within 99 days of the filing of the FIR.

"In a landmark achievement that underscores its commitment to women's safety and speedy justice, Jharsuguda Police has successfully secured a life imprisonment conviction in a horrific rape case involving a minor blind girl within a record 99 days of FIR registration. This case stands as a testament to the police force's scientific investigation methods and effective trial monitoring under the new criminal justice system," asserted the Odisha police in a press note on Wednesday.

The Odisha police further noted that the district Police of Jharsuguda employed advanced forensic techniques, including DNA analysis, to build an irrefutable case.

The court has awarded a compensation of Rs 10,50,000 to the victim girl under The NALSA (Victim Compensation Scheme) Regulations, 2018.
Raipur, Aug 13 : In a major breakthrough in Chhattisgarh's ongoing anti-Maoist campaign, security forces on Wednesday neutralised two senior Maoist leaders - Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame - in a fierce gunfight in the forested "Banda Pahad" region near Karekatta village in Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district.

Raipur, Aug 13 (IANS) In a major breakthrough in Chhattisgarh's ongoing anti-Maoist campaign, security forces on Wednesday neutralised two senior Maoist leaders - Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame - in a fierce gunfight in the forested "Banda Pahad" region near Karekatta village in Manpur-Mohla-Ambagarh Chowki district.

The encounter, which took place near the Kanker border, is being hailed as a significant success in the state's intensified crackdown on left-wing extremism.

Speaking to IANS, Superintendent of Police Yashpal Singh said: "The operation was launched based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of high-ranking Maoist cadres in the area. A joint team comprising the District Police, District Reserve Guard (DRG), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) surrounded the forest zone at around 5 pm on Wednesday, when the Maoists opened fire, the forces also retaliated, and after a prolonged exchange of fire, both were neutralised. Once the gunfire subsided, the bodies of Reddy and Salame were recovered along with an INSAS rifle, a .303 rifle, and other materials used by the Maoists. The security forces are combing the area to search for more bodies of Maoists that have been recovered."

Vijay Reddy, 55, a native of Andhra Pradesh, was a member of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZCM) and carried a bounty of Rs 25 lakh.

"Lokesh Salame, 40, a resident of Rajnandgaon district, was a divisional committee head with a reward of Rs 10 lakh. Both were key figures in the Rajnandgaon-Kanker-Border division and had been involved in planning and executing multiple attacks over the years. Their presence had instilled fear across villages in Manpur, Madanwada, and Sitagaon police station areas," the officer told IANS.

The forest zone where the encounter occurred has long served as a strategic stronghold for Maoist operations, including training camps and weapons caches.

The official revealed that the area was being used by Company No. 5 of the CPI (Maoist) and had become a safe haven for top commanders. This operation is part of a broader campaign that has seen 229 Maoists neutralised in Chhattisgarh this year alone, with 208 of them in the Bastar division.

Despite challenging terrain and monsoon rains, security forces continue to press forward, determined to dismantle the insurgent network and restore peace in the region.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 13 : The State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) has assured the Kerala government that it will take up the urgent working capital concerns of exporters hit by the US' recent imposition of a 50 per cent tariff on imports from India.

The commitment came during a meeting between SLBC representatives and state Industries, Law and Coir Minister P. Rajeev.

The apex body of commercial banks in the state confirmed that the matter would be placed on the agenda for its meeting scheduled for August 18.

The punitive tariff, announced by Washington earlier this month, has caused a severe setback for export-oriented units in Kerala.

Several exporters have reported that confirmed orders were either cancelled outright or placed on indefinite hold, creating an immediate cash flow crunch.

Minister Rajeev convened the meeting after receiving complaints from exporters that many banks were delaying or withholding approval for working capital applications.

These grievances were first raised during an interaction between the minister and exporters in Kochi earlier this week, where the industry representatives sought urgent government intervention.

"The state government stands firmly with the export sector at this difficult juncture," Rajeev told the SLBC delegation.

He also assured exporters that he would include their specific demands when submitting a related memorandum to the Central government for support measures.

The minister urged the sector to diversify its markets and reduce overdependence on traditional buyers.

"Export-oriented industries should also look inwards and utilise the untapped market potential within the rest of India," he said, stressing the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of global trade disruptions.

Rajeeve further added that the government would explore new overseas opportunities by engaging with members of the Loka Kerala Sabha, who represent Keralaas diaspora across the world.

Such networking, he said, could help identify and open up alternative markets to offset the loss from the US tariff.

The SLBCas forthcoming meeting is expected to outline concrete steps for facilitating faster access to working capital, ensuring that Keralaas exporters can weather the financial turbulence and remain competitive in the global marketplace.
Guwahati, Aug 13 : Ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebration, security measures have been further tightened across the northeastern region with special attention given along the international border in the region, officials said on Wednesday.

Officials in Imphal said that the Central and state security forces have further intensified their efforts to maintain a round-the-clock vigil in Imphal valley as well as the hilly districts.

A huge contingent of the Army, Assam Rifles, the Border Security Force (BSF), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), along with Manipur Police, have been deployed in Manipur to deal with the ethnic hostilities in the northeastern states since May 2023.

"All the central and state forces have intensified their search operation in both fringe, vulnerable and mixed populated areas to prevent any untoward incident ahead of the Independence Day celebration," a top official of Manipur Police said.

According to the officials of different northeastern states, district authorities in all the bordering districts of the eight northeastern states have imposed strict restrictions on the movement and transportation of certain commodities along the India-Bangladesh border and India-Myanmar border.

The measures, enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), are aimed at preventing possible infiltration by extremist elements and curbing unauthorised cross-border trade.

As per the directive, no person is permitted to move within a one-kilometre belt along the international borders in the Northeastern states between sunset and sunrise. Border Security Force (BSF) has intensified vigil and patrolling along the 1880 km India-Bangladesh border with Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram, while the Assam Rifles have taken similar steps 1643 km long India-Myanmar border with Mizoram, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.

"We have asked the BSF to further intensify their vigilance along the India-Bangladesh border to check any illegal trespassing and clandestine trans-border movements," a senior Tripura police official told IANS in Agartala.

He said: "Though ahead of the Independence Day, there is no threat from the militant outfits or from the inimical elements, we have taken a series of steps to heighten the security and alertness across the bordering state."

"Security was also stepped up in the airports, railway stations, bus terminus, shopping malls, market and crowded places. Close watches are being done in all these places and other sensitive and important locations," the official said.

"Night patrolling has been increased. Situations are being closely monitored round-the-clock. Bomb and dog squads are doing constant checking in all susceptible and important places, besides all types of vehicles."

A BSF spokesman said that a battalion commander-level courtesy meeting between BSF and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) was held at the Integrated Check Post in Srimantapur in Sepahijala district on the India-Bangladesh border to discuss bilateral border issues and to maintain peace and tranquillity along the border.

In Aizawl, an Assam Rifles official said that their troopers are on high alert along the unfenced India-Myanmar border to curb any kind of infiltration from across the border.

"Due to the intensified vigilance, smuggling of drugs and arms was reduced to a large extent in the recent past through the India-Myanmar borders," the official said.

--IANS

sc/dan
Jaipur, Aug 13 : The Rajasthan government, on Wednesday, has refused to conduct student union elections this year, informing the High Court that implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) has made it impossible to hold polls in the state.

In its reply, the state government referred to the Lyngdoh Committee's recommendation that elections be held within eight weeks of the start of the session -- a timeline that is currently unfeasible.

The views of Vice-Chancellors (VC) from nine universities were also included, most advising against elections due to academic schedules and session delays.

The VCs from different universities raised their concerns over the issue, Alpana Kateja, Rajasthan University Vice-Chancellor, said, "Admissions for Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses are complete, with mid-term examination in September and final term examination in November. Student voter turnout is below 25 to 30 per cent. Elections delay university's results, affecting students' admissions and competitive exam opportunities in other states. Suggested banning elections for smooth NEP implementation."

Manoj Dixit from Maharaja Ganga Singh University in Bikaner, said that admissions are still ongoing.

He called for a uniform academic policy for all universities and a Rajasthan-specific model code of conduct, similar to Uttar Pradesh.

He also recommended postponement of student elections until NEP is fully implemented in the state.

Tribhuvan Sharma (Acting), Maharaja Surajmal Brij University, Bharatpur, said, " Academic session is delayed, university examination results are pending, NEP 2020 implementation is underway."

He suggested postponing the elections for three to four years.

Jai Rao, a first-year M.A. student at Rajasthan University, filed a petition on July 24, challenging the non-conduct of elections.

He argued that electing student representatives is a fundamental right and accused the state government of withholding elections for three academic sessions.

The Rajasthan High Court heard the matter on July 29 and sought the state government's response in the matter.

Meanwhile, student leaders in the state have held state-wide protests demanding elections.
Agartala, Aug 13 : Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Wednesday that the state government has been working with utmost seriousness to solve the teacher crisis in all government schools, including government-aided schools.

While addressing the platinum jubilee celebration of Bardowali Higher Secondary School, the Chief Minister said that people are born without knowledge and slowly learn from their mother, nature, and then from school.

Saha, who also holds the education portfolio, said that the state government is working to set up an education hub in the state.

Noting that teachers play an important role behind the success of each student, the doctor turned politician said that there is no substitute for knowledge, and a student must have a desire to know about everything.

"There are many people who have no educational qualifications but possess a great deal of knowledge. We can also learn from society. Students must engage in social work and should think about the nation," said Saha.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the 'Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign' in 2022 to inculcate the spirit of freedom among all sections of people. "The Indian national flag is our pride, and we must give our full respect towards the Tricolour," Saha stated.

The National Education Policy being implemented across the country following the vision of PM Modi, the Chief Minister said, adding that the school curriculum should be same for the entire country, and through NCERT, the curriculum was introduced.

In Tripura, the state government also implemented the NEP so that the students of the state can compete with students from other parts of the country, he said.

"Our students have no lack of talent, but they need a proper platform, proper training, and opportunities to develop their intellect. Our children are doing well in education, cultural programs, and other activities. We are working on Nipun Tripura for developing education in children, and PM Shri Schools are being implemented here. We have also undertaken campaigns like Saharsh. We have introduced the Tripura School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Framework to create healthy competition among schools through which we can identify loopholes and address them," said Saha.

He also informed that the state government has provided over 19,000 government jobs and has created opportunities for entrepreneurship. "In every aspect, education and knowledge are necessary. I have received information that government-aided schools are suffering from a teacher crisis, and I have already discussed the matter with officials to solve the issue," he added.

--IANS

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Sheopur : , Aug 13 (IANS) In a dramatic test of India's newly established inter-state cheetah corridor, a free-ranging female cheetah named Jwala from Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park trekked nearly 130 km into Rajasthan's Sawai Madhopur district before being safely rescued and returned.

Sheopur (Madhya Pradesh), Aug 13 (IANS) In a dramatic test of Indiaas newly established inter-state cheetah corridor, a free-ranging female cheetah named Jwala from Madhya Pradeshas Kuno National Park trekked nearly 130 km into Rajasthanas Sawai Madhopur district before being safely rescued and returned.

The incident marks the first confirmed inter-state movement of a cheetah since the corridoras creation, raising both ecological optimism and logistical concerns.

Jwala, who wears a radio collar for tracking, was first spotted on August 11 in the Manpur area of Sheopur district with her cub.

By the next day, she had separated from the cub and crossed the Chambal riverbanks, eventually reaching Baler village in Rajasthan, officials said.

Early on August 13, villagers discovered her inside a goat enclosure and alerted the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR) team.

Initial rescue attempts failed due to her aggressive behaviour, prompting RTR officials to call in the Kuno team.

The Kuno rescue team arrived by mid-morning and successfully tranquilised Jwala within 15 minutes, removing the goat kill to prevent human-wildlife conflict.

She was then transported back to Kuno National Park, where she rejoined the population of 26 cheetahs, including nine adults and 17 Indian-born cubs, a Madhya Pradesh government statement on Wednesday said.

Forest and police officials from both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan coordinated with each other to ensure the safety of both the animal and local residents.

The Kuno management expressed gratitude for the support received during the operation.

This incident comes just months after Rajasthan was formally integrated into Indiaas first inter-state cheetah conservation corridor, which spans 17,000 square km across protected landscapes in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

The corridor aims to facilitate natural movement of cheetahs and restore grassland ecosystems. While the successful rescue highlights the corridoras ecological potential, it also underscores the challenges of managing free-ranging predators in human-dominated landscapes.

Wildlife experts say such movements are a sign of healthy adaptation but call for enhanced monitoring and community awareness to prevent conflict.
The credit card rewards market has become a high-stakes battleground in 2025, with issuers rolling out new benefits and revamped product lines to attract or retain affluent, travel-focused customers.

Most Read from Fast Company



In some cases, though, the upgrades come with dramatic fee hikes. In recent weeks, JPMorgan Chase announced a substantial overhaul of its Chase Sapphire Reserve offering, including a fee increase from $550 to $795 per year and the launch of a business version of the card.

American Express has signaled a major refresh of its Platinum Card by years end, including upgrades to its Centurion Lounges and a new Sidecar fast-format lounge concept in Las Vegas.

Citi, meanwhile, has reentered the ultra-premium market with the $595 Strata Elite Card, boasting a $1,500 estimated annual value through hotel, travel, and lifestyle credits.

Against this backdrop, Capital One is taking a markedly different approach: extending new travel benefits to customers of its no-annual-fee rewards cards.

Expanding benefits without raising fees

Starting August 12, new cardholders of Capital Ones VentureOne, Quicksilver, and Savor products will receive a $100 Capital One Travel creditthe first time the bank has offered a travel credit on these no-fee cards.

That comes in addition to existing sign-up bonuses: 20,000 miles for VentureOne or $200 cash back for Quicksilver and Savor after spending $500 in the first three months.

The move is paired with a large expansion of the Capital One Travel platform, which now offers access to more than 500,000 vacation rental properties and 180,000-plus bookable activities and excursions. Those can be reserved directly through Capital One Travel, earning cardholders 5x rewards on bookings. The curated experiences range from wine tours in Napa, California, to private boat charters in the Caribbeansignaling a push toward personalized, experiential travel.

All three cards now also include complimentary Five Star status with the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program. Perks include access to a wider selection of vehicles, complimentary upgrades when available, and the ability to bypass the rental counter at select locations.

A contrarian strategy in the rewards arms race

While competitors are focusing on the upper end of the marketand justifying triple-digit annual fees with expanded lounge access, premium status perks, and lifestyle creditsCapital Ones latest move targets a broader swath of consumers: those who value travel benefits but arent willing to commit to high annual fees.
In the predawn hours on May 13, 1862, Robert Smalls commandeered the Confederate steamer Planter from the Charleston docks and escaped slavery alongside a small crew of freedom seekers. Through the maelstrom of the Civil War and Reconstruction, Smalls went on to prominence, becoming a member of Congress and much more. Rob Edwardss Defiant: The Story of Robert Smalls, a new graphic novel published as the first volume of a collaborative, crowdsourced series by Legion M and Stranger Comics, tells this extraordinary yet little-known story. Edwards, also a celebrated television and film storyteller, spoke with PW about Smalls, the creative process, history, and heroism.

When did you first learn about Robert Smalls? Was it before or after you were brought into the Defiant project?

A classmate of mine from Cranbrook, David Baxter, who works with Legion M, got in touch with me after a Robert Smalls meme went viral in their community. David basically said, Hey, somebody sent a meme into Legion M and another member wrote a screenplay based on the story, could you look at it? Because it may be impolitic for a white writer to write this story.

So I looked at it and what was cool to me was, I had never heard of this guy, and I thought I was read up on everything and so it was amazing that this had never showed up on my radar screen. In fact, I worked on a movie called Emperor that was about an escaped slave, and during it the researchers were telling us that no one had ever escaped slavery, or no one escaped without consequence, or they talked about the Haitian Rebellion and other things. Well, there were Black Seminoles, there were all kinds of people who had escaped and had gone and were fine.

So, I was on the lookout for a story like this, and then when I heard about this one and not only the escape but what happened after the escape and just how amazing his story was, I thought, this is the one I want to tell. This is the one that I think will affect the most people. So, I told him I wasnt going to just consult on it, I wasnt going to just take a rewrite pass on it, I was going to completely start from scratch. The initial writer had heard that there was a heist in the middle of the night, that they stole this boat, and thats what he wrote. When I asked him for his syllabus, he said, Well, there isnt one. So, that was my journey as a historian: to try to investigate this guys life and tell his story.

Can you walk through the creative process a little? What sort of sources did you consult while researching Smallss story?

Fortunately, I had done my time at Disney Pixar, and those guys are research junkies. So, no matter what the film is, they bring book after book after book, and recordings and interviews and all kinds of stuff, and eventually you just become an expert. On Treasure Planet, it was maritime law and the history of piracy and then also Robert Louis Stevenson, technology, Boston dynamics, what was possible and all kinds of stuff. You just try to get as close to a reality as you can. I always say, I knew more about green tree frogs than most people should, because of The Princess and the Frog.

So, when this thing happened, the first step usually is, you figure out basically the line of the story, what you want to say with it, and then you start doing research; you just say, I need to know everything. My first question was, what kind of person would do this? What was it about his childhood that got him to this place? What I wound up with was basically, he was a guy who had grown up and never really took on the mantle of slave. Smalls was raised by Henry McKee. The first thing I found that was really interesting to me was that Robert Smalls and Henry McKees daughter were born within three months of each other. Robert Smalls was a very well-dressed man; that can only come from having been dressed in the hand-me-down clothes of the McKee family. His mother, Lydia Polite, had raised at least two generations of McKees already, so she was as much a part of the family as you could [be], and they lived of course separately; they lived in the backyard, and all the other slaves lived on the plantation. So, I figured that he grew up as a rich white boy and then never shed that, so as society tried to redefine him, he would not allow himself to be redefined. That was his defiance: I will not mold to your conventions.

One of the themes in Defiant and one goal for me was that I didnt want to do the thing that everybody else does with slave narratives, which is: all the white people are bad, and they are just these sadists and thats where it begins and ends. I wanted to ask, what happens to nice, generally kind, people when theyre in an unkind system? McKee asserts his authority as a slaveowner when he runs out of means as a father. The police assert their authority as slavecatchers because heres this unruly kid who refuses to go inside at night. I think that thats the way it works. Sometimes people assert whatever authority they can when they have that opportunity, and thats why the institution of slavery is the bad guy, not necessarily the slaveowners and foremen, and so on. Thats where I started: this improbable guy, who does this amazing thing. Why does he do it? Then, take him through the journey.

In the foreword to Defiant, Smallss great-great grandson, Michael Boulware Moore, describes the graphic novel as a bridge across time. What does that mean to you?

The way I look at it is, first, everything old is new again. Here we are in 2025, were still debating the Fourteenth Amendment. This year, for Juneteenththe book came out on Juneteenththe President of the United States says you cannot celebrate this federal holiday on federal grounds, and a lot of people backed down from that and events were canceled all over the country. So, you had this whole thing of, well, theres oppression, and the automatic reaction was well, we wont celebrate these things. What I think the bridge of time is, is What would Robert Smalls do? Robert Smalls would have just thrown the thing [Juneteenth] and said, Come get me. We need to see more of that now. I had this fascinating conversation with a 70-year-old white British man who had just read the book, and he said, I dont think you were meant to inspire me, but you did. Im inspired because I look at what he did and I think, we should all be doing stuff like that.

You helped bring the first Black Disney Princess to audiences in The Princess and the Frog, and more recently, working on the screenplay and story for Captain America: Brave New World, you brought another Black heroor superheroto the big screen. How did those experiences shape your storytelling for Defiant?

I think they got me ready for it. Frankly, if you had asked me in 2000 to write Defiant, I would have said no. That was before Treasure Planet, which gave me a feel for epic storytelling, and then The Princess and the Frog was like the day in high school where they give you an egg and you had to show up the next day with the egg uncracked. It felt like that. My four years on that was, Dont blow it. I told them that youre not going to find anybody who is going to take this more seriously than me, and so off we go. The same was true of Captain America, where everything he says is going to be put under a microscope. People are going to come after all those stories, and they did. But you want to at the end of the day have something that you can be proud of, that other people can be proud of, and Im really gratified that people will run up to me and say, Hey! Did you write that thing? Oh my God! and give me a hug of nowhere, Thank you!

So, with this, I thought, theres nobody else who has the CV to write something this big and important, to take it seriously, and to not step on a rake. I am pulling out all the stops, but I want to connect people to him as a man, as a father, as a human being, and take everyone through this epic story, and then [in subsequent volumes] expand it to the family, into modern day, and out and out. Recently, we moved out of comic bookstores and into Barnes & Noble and AmazonI think we debuted at #1so its catching on. I think that its the kind of book that you can leave on your kids bed and know that theyll know a lot more about our history by the end of it, which would be virtually impossible to do with most other forms.

Can you speak to your experience of this collaborative process in creating such a uniquely hybrid graphic novel project? Was it similar or different from other things youve worked on?

Writers rooms are entirely collaboration. I love collaboration and the idea of, Look, Ive taken it to the one-yard lineI need a fullback. At Disney Pixar, theres this concept of plussing. Everything gets plussed, which means that I turn in my pages to a story artist and the story artist starts drawing, and a lot of times that would get locked in: theyd take it to the director. So, I would go in very early and I would see what they were going to do with my scene, and I would say, Great, I love what youre doing, Im going to help that out; Ill be right back. I would go rewrite my pages to what they were doing and then we would take that into the director. That was a processI was at Disney for more than 10 yearsthat just became a really great way to communicate with artists.

Stranger Comics has a very similar system. Darrell May is the layout guy, so I talked directly to him. Darrell was like, What kind of gun does he have? He would go down to the details; theres not a detail that was missed in this. In fact, we had huge arguments over what flags are flown at different times for different regiments, and things like that. Some things wind up as historian versus artist. So, Darrell would take a pass at it, and then after he had laid it out, we would look at it and give him notes and he would redraw, basically, where everything belongs and what everybody looks like.

Then it would go to Sean Damien Hill, who would do the final pencil and ink work with Alex Paterson and the other artists and editors. Some work was based in Italy, so art would get shipped over and the modern stuff, the 1914 stuff, would be done over there. We wanted that to look different as you were going between past and present; slightly different styles the artists had. There were several colorists as well. We were meeting every week at every stage, I was giving my input, kind of directing it as you would a movie. Fortunately, those guys were super patient and wanted to get it right as much as I did. The way we progressed was entirely collaborative. I take my part of it as a storyteller but the artistry; those guys went above and beyond the call and did some great stuff.

What are the main takeaways you hope readers of Defiant have?

If this kid can go from the lowest of the low to highest of the high, where he starts off born in a one-room backyard shack on a day when theres a lynching right down the street; if he can go from that to Congress, the railroad, the printing press, giving speechesnot without conflict, often from the same, constant antagonists who will be seen in forthcoming volumes. What I want people to take from it, like what my 70-year-old white British friend took: its inspirational. No matter where you are today, you are not as bad as where Robert Smalls started. If he can ascend to where he ascended, theres hope for everybody. That, I think, is universal. Its less at that point a slave narrative and more Horatio Alger story; an inspirational tale for everybody to read, hopefully multiple times. I do have my days where I go, What would Robert Smalls do? WWRSD, you know? And you say, OK, ground yourself. Play the chess game like Robert Smalls. You can get on a boat at 3 a.m. and at 6 a.m. your whole life is changed.

Wyatt Erchak is a historian of the Civil War era interested in visual storytelling, whose work explores Black pioneers and their allies fighting against slavery.

This article has been updated with further information and for clarity.
Molecular biologist Mike Rossner, who has committed his life to following the science, now finds himself playing an unexpected if urgent role  exposing the fraud of his fellow scientists.

Rossner is part of a network of experts that sniff out researchers who intentionally or recklessly fabricate, falsify, or plagiarize evidence. Rossner, a consultant specializing in identifying manipulated and duplicated images in journal papers  a telltale sign of deceit  has been dismayed by his findings at U.S. research centers. Scientists often have deleted the data underlying the images, making misconduct harder to prove and casting doubt on the validity of the research.

Molecular biologist Mike Rossner is part of a network of experts that sniff out bad research.

Science is about finding the truth, and an inaccurate representation of what was actually observed means that you are not representing the truth, said Rossner, a former managing editor of The Journal of Cell Biology. This is harmful to the progress of science and to our society that depends on it.

In recent years, research misconduct has tainted the countrys most venerable universities, including Harvard and Johns Hopkins. To date, more than 20 Nobel Prize winners have had papers retracted by the journals that published them, a move often associated with misconduct, according to Retraction Watch. The watchdog group says that retractions worldwide increased fivefold in the last decade.

That a profession with noble intentions finds itself beset by a surprisingly high incidence of not just honest errors but fraud  estimated at about 1% to 2% of all research papers  is a complicated story. Experts say it reflects a breakdown in ethics by scientists under intense pressure to frequently publish to keep their jobs. This problem was highlighted by a recent article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences about the growth of clandestine paper mills, which exploit the publish or perish culture of research. The operators of mills produce low-quality and fake papers  giving authorship to scientists at a price  that are published in predatory journals without peer review, fueling the growth of retractions and fraud.

The problem runs deeper. Lax oversight at some universities and research centers, which are required by federal agencies to police themselves and yet depend on the grants that published research brings in, allows wrongdoing to go unchecked.

When fraud is suspected, the misconduct investigations that follow are shrouded in secrecy  even though much research is federally funded. Universities typically reveal nothing at all, even though federal rules clearly allow them to disclose details of cases when misconduct is found, out of fear of defamation suits from scientists and internal employment policies.

Whats more, institutions as well as the federal funding agencies that oversee the investigations, mainly the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Research Integrity, dont disclose anonymous data on the total number of allegations, investigations, and findings of misconduct each year. This lack of transparency makes it almost impossible to determine if the problem is getting better or worse. Its a big black box.

Northwestern University's Lauran Qualkenbush said findings of misconduct are on the rise.

Still, two research integrity officers (RIOs) who handle these probes told RealClearInvestigations that misconduct findings at some institutions are on the rise, stemming from an increase in the volume of substandard papers and greater scrutiny of them.

We have had more findings of misconduct at Northwestern in recent years than we did 10 years ago and generally its been on the rise, Lauran Qualkenbush, research integrity officer at the top ranked university, told RCI. There is greater public awareness and more people actually reporting misconduct.

More than academic reputations are at stake. Many misconduct cases are concentrated in biomedical research, which clinicians depend on to make diagnostic and treatment decisions. Among the examples of fraudulent research potentially harming patients, a study by JAMA found such a link with hydroxyethyl starch, which is used to treat people experiencing a rapid loss of blood.

The harm is also to science itself at a time of deepening public skepticism in the enterprise. When solid findings on the safety and effectiveness of vaccines are rejected by officials in the Trump administration, which is also aiming to cut funding by about a quarter in its campaign against woke research, self-inflicted cheating scandals can only weaken public support for the value of science.

Obstacles to Investigations

Research integrity officers on the frontlines face institutional obstacles that go well beyond the deletion of data. In the university hierarchy, these investigators are known to be dedicated but are also often low-ranking. They depend on their bosses, typically a universitys head of research or chief academic officer, to run interference for them.

Its important that RIOs have support of the most senior people because of the things that they have to deal with, said Northwesterns Qualkenbush.

What RIOs often confront are tenured scientists with impressive reputations and institutional backing because of the funding and publicity they attract to the university. Since a misconduct finding can lead to dismissal or a years-long ban on federal funding, its not surprising that more scientists are filing defamation suits to silence the critics and derail investigations, according to a Cambridge University Press article.

Misconduct investigations unfold in conflicted atmospheres because they often involve researchers working together in the same lab.

These investigations are unfolding in a conflicted atmosphere. Misconduct is often first suspected by researchers in the same lab where they work. Everyone in the lab, from the faculty members who run it to the younger post-docs and grad students, knows each other. They celebrate breakthroughs and birthdays together. So researchers are very reluctant to report evidence of fraud because of a fear of career-harming retaliation from their colleagues.

At Northwestern, Qualkenbush goes to great lengths to protect whistleblowers and get their cooperation. She has helped find them positions in other labs, creating a safe distance from their former colleagues before informing the accused of an inquiry. She has arranged for the writing of letters of recommendation from faculty members who are not involved in the wrongdoing. One Northwestern graduate student waited a year to report allegations  until immediately after the person was awarded a Ph.D. and could move on to a new opportunity without fear of reprisal.

Fear of retaliation is a huge problem that RIOs have to deal with on a regular basis, Qualkenbush said. You cant have a grad student make allegations against their principal investigator and go back to work in the lab the next day. When the accuser is in a vulnerable position, its just horrific.

Stefan Franzen, a whistleblower at North Carolina State University whose long saga was chronicled by the local media, became the target of an unrelenting retaliation campaign. Franzen told RCI that his troubles began when, at the urging of his dean of research, he started working with two researchers who had just published what was considered a groundbreaking paper in the prestigious journal Science. Together, they would form a competitive team to win grants.

But Franzen, then a tenured chemistry professor, and a grad student dug into the paper and found several flaws in its central finding. After informing the two researchers of his concerns and getting no response, Franzen says, he intended to send a correction to the journal. But the researchers objected, saying the data wasnt his to correct  an argument that Franzen found preposterous  and the dean sided with the duo, saying the university could be sued.

Undaunted, Franzen did file a complaint with N.C. States research integrity officer. The RIO investigated the matter and sent a report to the National Science Foundation that oversaw the case because it had provided the grant.

The next thing I know, everyone, top to bottom, is upset with me because Im going to cost the university money, Franzen said. The dean went around telling people how terrible I was. If youre the whistleblower, you are the one who gets hurt.

Stefan Franzen became the target of investigation after he reported misconduct at N.C. State University.

Franzen says research center directors made it difficult for him to use their equipment. Worse, the dean backed an investigation accusing Franzen of grant fraud, which included a visit by two armed federal agents. Franzen was cleared.

It took a decade before Franzen won a bitter-sweet victory. In a 2015 letter of reprimand, NSF banned the two researchers from receiving more federal funding because of a misrepresentation of data on which a conclusion was based. N.C. State, for its part, tried to distance itself from the controversy, saying the reprimand didnt target the university and not much more. A year later, Science retracted the paper.

I went through a really tough patch, Franzen said. My own administration was doing everything it could to get me to leave, but yes, Ive recovered.

N.C. State did not respond to a request for comment.

Harvard, Stanford and Dana-Farber

While Franzens case may be extreme, university leaders have more subtle ways to slow walk and obstruct inquiries to protect the reputations of scientists and their institutions. Under federal rules, an allegation of misconduct must make it through two steps  an initial assessment to weed out frivolous accusations and next an inquiry to find out if theres evidence of wrongdoing  before a full investigation begins.

As part of the process, a small committee of about three researchers and experts is set up, typically by a high-ranking administrator if not the RIO, to guide the investigation. While committee members are supposed to be free of conflicts of interest with the accused and the accuser, that doesnt mean they always conduct a thorough and honest probe, according to one experienced RIO who asked not to be named.

Some committee members struggle to take a tough stand against a fellow researcher, the source said. Others are unwilling to invest the considerable time required over a year or more, including interviewing everyone in a lab, examining up to 30 drafts of a paper, and reviewing hundreds of emails to determine who committed the falsification and whether it was intentional.

The hardest part of the investigation, the source said, is to pin the wrongdoing on the lab directors. Junior researchers do most of the work on the experiments and papers, leaving their fingerprints on everything. The directors often claim they were unaware of the falsification, but its difficult to determine if this is true or if their lax supervision allowed the wrongdoing to occur.

Its easier for investigative committees to find that the falsification was human error, recommend that a correction be printed, and close the probe.

Ive had cases where someone in-house told me, We dont want to make a big deal of this, the source said. And I say, This is a big deal. These are serious allegations against a prominent researcher.

Science Sleuths Find Evidence of Misconduct

Researchers at the prestigious Dana-Farber Cancer Institute had six papers retracted last year.

When leaders of an institution are accused of misconduct, the conflicts of interest are so significant that independent experts should be called in to investigate, according to an article co-authored by Lisa Rasmussen, a professor who studies research ethics and has served on investigative committees at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Stanford and Harvard did turn to outsiders to investigate their presidents, but the prestigious Dana-Farber Cancer Institute kept its recent review of CEO Laurie Glimcher and other leaders in-house.

Last year, Glimcher and other Dana-Farber researchers had their names on an embarrassing wave of 31 corrected and six retracted papers. Science retracted a paper co-authored by Glimcher, citing discrepancies in the data and a lack of confidence in the findings.

Although the media reported that a committee of trustees would make a final determination on Glimcher, a spokesperson told RCI that she couldnt even confirm if Dana-Farber conducted an investigation or any other details, citing federal confidentiality rules. But experts say those rules dont apply once the investigation and findings are complete.

It would have been better for Dana-Farber to bring in an outside panel of experts to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest, said Professor Rasmussen. It would also be in the public interest and probably in Dana-Farbers interest to be transparent in such a high-profile case to restore trust.

Most misconduct would probably remain uncovered or quiet in-house affairs if not for the exposes by independent investigators such as Sholto David, who first revealed the erroneous papers at Dana-Farber. A biologist with an irreverent style, David, along with dozens of other scientists, is part of an informal network of sleuths who scrutinize thousands of published papers annually and frequently find fabricated and manipulated evidence. Their detailed examinations, typically published online in PubPeer, provide the initial evidence that often leads to retractions and misconduct investigations. The sleuths have become so prolific that their revelations can overwhelm the ability of universities to investigate them, according to an article in PubMed.

Retraction Watch, co-founded by medical doctor and science editor Ivan Oransky, is a key player in the sleuthing world, providing groundbreaking reports on retractions and misconduct cases. Its long-term tracking of retractions, which journals typically announce in a brief notice, provides a roundabout method of monitoring trends in misconduct, since researchers have found that about two-thirds of retractions are due to wrongdoing rather than human error.

Ivan Oransky, who co-founded Retraction Watch, says sleuths can't identify many of the papers that deserve to be pulled.

The number of retractions is climbing fast. Retraction Watch counted 139 total retractions globally in 2005, soaring to 1,542 a decade later. That number spiked more than eightfold to 13,107 by 2023  due to a flood of retractions by Hindawi journals. Last years figure of 5,475 continues the general upward trend.

In all, Oransky says, about 1 in 500 or 0.2% of papers are retracted. But sleuths and whistleblowers cant possibly identify all the papers that deserve to be pulled. He estimates that the percentage should be about 1 in 50, or 2%.

That figure lines up with several studies of potential misconduct. When Rossner was at The Journal of Cell Biology, he found that about 1% of accepted papers contained evidence of image manipulation and thus likely wrongdoing. Scientist and sleuth Elizabeth Bik reviewed a sample of more than 20,000 papers in 40 journals, finding that about 2% had features suggestive of deliberate manipulation.

If anywhere near 2% of research papers are the product of wrongdoing, thats a significant problem. Among the proposed reforms, Rossner says research institutions and journals should require the screening of papers for image manipulation before publication to catch misconduct. The publisher Springer Nature says it screens accepted life science manuscripts for Nature and its research journals.

Oransky wants more transparency by requiring universities to release their investigative reports to shed light on strategies to curb fraud. Professor Rasmussen sees the need for an independent national commission, separate from federal funding agencies, to set policy, closely monitor investigations, and gather data on misconduct.

We can tweak regulations and make investigators more rigorous, but this is fundamentally an ethical issue, said Mark Barnes, a lawyer and prominent expert on misconduct investigations. Institutions need to be proactive and deal with this issue on the front end by training young researchers in ethics to curb misconduct before it happens.
Featured Image credit: Jane Bird

This isnt the first InRangeTV Brutality match Ive written about, and it wont be the last. Why? Because these matches keep getting better. High Desert Brutality 2025 was a match for the record books.

WHAT IS BRUTALITY

First and foremost, InRangeTV Brutality events are a community-building event for everyone involved. Nowhere else in the shooting community will you find a more welcoming or more open set of people.

Second to that, Brutality is more training event than it is a competition. Not every stage is perfectly balanced to be fair. Every stage is hard, much harder than almost any other match will offer. This years match was even harder, given par times were increased to a full 300 seconds.

These two aspects of Brutality are what keep me and most others coming back. The community and the awesome stages.

WE DIDNT DID START THE FIRE

The next time your friend gets upset because a range or BLM land closes due to fire risk, send them this article. The fact is, brush fires are extremely easy to spark off, and even when you do everything right, sometimes you still burn down half the range.

Less than 2 hours into the first day of HDB 2025 a fire sparked off on one of the stages that not only closed the range for the day, but would go on to burn about 225 acres in just a few hours.

The steel target was over 300 yards away from the shooter, the ground around the target was cleared of brush, and the shooter was using standard 55gr FMJ ammo from a major manufacturer (this was confirmed by the match director and several ROs after checking the rest of the shooters magazine and even pulling and cutting bullets to make sure).

Despite everything, the fire still started a solid 50 feet away from the target being shot..

Thankfully, no one was hurt by the fire, and no structures were lost or damaged. Match staff acted quickly to attempt to contain the fire, but with how dry the brush was and the wind, it spread quickly. Emergency fire crews were able to contain it with the help of water bombers.

Not a great start to the weekend, but sh!t happens. The result of the fire was the match having to reduce the number of stages from 7 to 4 in order to get everyone through Sunday. Even with the shorter match, it was a long day for shooters and especially the ROs.

Special thanks to all the staff at Brutality for how they handled the fire and the fallout. Every RO was calm, professional, and acted decisively to keep competitors safe and accounted for.

The next day. Image credit: Jane Bird

LONG RANGE BRUTALITY

High Desert Brutality is specifically the long range brutality due to being able to stretch stages out to 600+ yards. The average rifle target was over 100 yards, with a good 1/3rd of targets being between 250 and 500 yards.

Is that long range as far as PRS or NRL: Hunter is concerned? Maybe not, but for a 2-gun action match  thats pretty far. If you dont know your dope, youre in for a rough day. Add in the heat, the flies, the brush fire, 300-second par times, and if youre insane enough to do it, shooting in Trooper or one of the Armored divisions, and this 2-gun match gets real spicy.

Even with the match only having 4 stages due to the fire, these stages were awesome. And hard. Because of the difficulty of the stages, par times were extended to 300 seconds (5 minutes).

Stage one starts you off with a high-value hostage target at 200 yards using a perfectly zeroed stage gun. Then the fun really began. Ripping down range in an apocalypse dune buggy, shooting at bonus targets, is hands down the coolest thing Ive done at a match. Some precision shots from inside the buggy, sprinting, and more precision shots from the buggy made it clear this wasnt your normal kind of 2-gun match.

Shooting from inside the buggy is NOT easy

Stage two dialed up the difficulty with a coyote bonus target at 615 yards. Shooters only had 3 shots to attempt to hit the yote before having to move on. After that, targets at 100 to 500 yards had to be engaged before sprinting to another bay for more targets between 100 and 450 yards. On the way to the second bay, there was a melee target to stab. Awesome.

Targets to 500 yards

Targets from the back of a bus out to 450 yards

Stage three calmed things down a little with targets at only 100ish yards and the dreaded rifle spinner. And in true Brutality fashion, the spinner hated to spin. Pistol targets involved a trench run and retrieving keys to use in the stage prop. Having to keep track of 4 keys and color match them to the locks required to continue the stage sounds easy, but its not as simple when youre gassed out and overheated.

Stage four was long, but made longer if you missed shots. Starting with a stage PCC and given 7 rounds to clear 6 plates on a plate rack at 50 yards, clearing the rack made the stage easier and required one less station for you to shoot. So dont miss. After the rack was multiple rifle arrays at 100-150 yards, a barricade to shoot through, and a lot of running. More pistol targets shot in sequence and finished off with another round of rifle shooting made this stage the longest and most endurance-heavy stage of the match. Not only did you have to just keep going, you also needed to make hits are some fairly small targets while doing it.

Stage gun KP-9 PCC. 7 rounds, 6 plates, 50 yards.

Just 4 stages out of the 7 planned was a bummer, but even only shooting 4 stages made for a great match. I can only imagine how legendary the match would have been with the full 7 planned.

Icing on the cake was two bonus stages for shooters that had fuel left in their tank after the 4 official stages. The first bonus stage was a Kasarda drill requiring the shooter to yeet kettlebells downrange for 50 yards while clearing targets. New to Brutality was the Sinistral Rifleman Skills Check, involving shooting spinner targets with both rifle and pistol.

Shooters were welcome to shoot these bonus stages as many times as they wanted to try for a better score.

RECOMMENDED GEAR

Shooting in both Heavy Rifle and Light Armored using an AR-10 and AR-15 configured very similarly, I had a great time getting to see the strengths and weaknesses of both side-by-side.

A full breakdown of the rifles and lessons learned is coming soon, but one takeaway I strongly recommend is the use of a bipod and knowing how to use it well. For these longer ranged stages, getting stable and prone helps a lot.

Have good dope and spend a little more on your ammo than you normally would. Targets are fairly large even at 500 yards, but youll want at least 2 MOA or better. Consistent ammo will also help make hits.

Because of the range involved, magnified optics of some flavor are highly recommended. Ive been slow to adopt LPVOs but for this match, I used two Vortex LPVOS  the Razor Gen 3 1-10x and the Razor Gen 2 1-6x. Both performed wonderfully, but the FFP and better reticle of the Gen 3 really shone in this match.

6.5 Creedmoor was provided by Barnes shooting their Precision Match OTM 140gr. 10-round group measured with a Garmin chronograph had this ammo at 31 FPS extreme spread and only 10.7 FPS STD DEV. My Franken rifle with the Faxon Firearms gunner profile 20 barrel holds 1.1 MOA with this ammo.

For 5.56 NATO, AmmunitionToGo.com provided 62gr Magtech. While not a precision round, the 62gr Magtech was my choice because its better ballistics than M193 55gr, but not the insane cost of something like the 75gr+ offerings. For only 45 cents per round, this did pretty damn well. 10-rounds over the Garmin chrono had 74 FPS extreme spread and 22.3 FPS STD DEV. Not amazing, but for bulk ammo, thats pretty solid.

Brutality has a long list of divisions to try, both modern and historical. For modern, I think Heavy Rifle is going to be my favorite for High Desert. Rarely can full-power cartridges compete against intermediate cartridges in a 2-gun match, but this is one match where .308 Win and especially 6.5 Creedmoor really stand out.

In the historical divisions, Space Cowboy looked incredibly fun with optics on lever-action guns. This is one that Ill have to try next time I shoot High Desert Brutality.

LOOSE ROUNDS

InRangeTV Brutality events keep pushing what a 2-gun match can be and are shining examples of what happens when a determined and dedicated group of people can accomplish. No matter what quirks of nature occur or what new challenge is faced, the shooters and staff at Brutality matches embrace the suck and push themselves to reach new goals.

If youre looking to push yourself, there is no better match for it than one of the InRangeTV Brutality matches.
The RBI will introduce a new mechanism from October 4 for clearance of cheques within hours of being presented to banks, reducing the current time period of up to two working days.

Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

Cheques will be scanned, presented, and passed in a few hours and on a continuous basis during business hours.

The clearing cycle will be reduced from the present T+1 days to a few hours.

Cheque Truncation System (CTS) currently processes cheques with a clearing cycle of up to two working days.

To improve the efficiency of cheque clearing and reduce settlement risk for participants, and to enhance customer experience, the RBI has decided to transition CTS from the current approach of batch processing to continuous clearing with 'on-realisation-settlement'.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a circular for introduction of Continuous Clearing and Settlement on Realisation in CTS.

"It has been decided to transition CTS to continuous clearing and settlement on realisation in two phases.

"Phase 1 shall be implemented on October 4, 2025 and Phase 2 on January 3, 2026," it said.

There will be a single presentation session from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Cheques received by the branches shall be scanned and sent to the clearing house by the banks immediately and continuously during the presentation session, RBI said.

"For every cheque presented, the drawee bank shall generate either positive confirmation (for honoured cheques) or negative confirmation (for dishonoured cheques)," it said.

During Phase 1 (from October 4, 2025 to January 2, 2026), drawee banks will be required to confirm (positively/negatively) cheques presented on them, latest by the end of the confirmation session (7:00 PM), else those will be deemed to have been approved and included for settlement.

In Phase 2 (from January 3, 2026), the item expiry time of cheques shall be changed to T+3 clear hours.

Giving an example, the RBI said the cheques received by drawee banks between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM will have to be confirmed positively or negatively by them by 2:00 PM (3 hours from 11:00 AM).

Cheques for which confirmation is not provided by the drawee bank in the prescribed 3 hours shall be treated as deemed approved and included for settlement at 2:00 PM.

RBI further said that on completion of settlement, the clearing house will release the information of positive and negative confirmations to the presenting bank.

"The presenting bank shall process the same and release the payment to the customers immediately, but not later than 1 hour from successful settlement, subject to usual safeguards," it said.

RBI directed banks to make their customers adequately aware of the changes in the cheque clearing process.

Banks have also been asked to be in readiness to participate in continuous clearing in CTS on the prescribed dates.
Indias top information- technology (IT) services companies, all cash-rich, have been tightfisted about ploughing back their earnings in new projects or acquisitions and the bulk of the profits have been distributed to shareholders through dividend and share buybacks.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

In the past 10 years (that is, excluding the current one), the firms have reinvested in growth and expansion only around 13.5 per cent of the cash flow generated from their operations.

But, on average, nearly 73 per cent of cash profits have been returned to shareholders by way of dividend and share buybacks.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, Wipro, HCL Technologies, and Tech Mahindra have cumulatively generated cash profits worth around Rs 8.9 trillion since 2015-16 (FY16) but they put only around Rs 1.2 trillion in gross block investment in the period.

Intangibles are generally created when firms make acquisitions. In comparison, shareholders cumulatively earned around Rs 6.46 trillion from these top five companies.

In other words, the industry paid Rs 5 to their shareholders for every Rs 1 reinvested in their businesses.

For example, in FY25, these companies together paid an equity dividend worth around Rs 91,600 crore, accounting for 76.2 per cent of their cash profits.

In comparison, they invested around Rs 9,650 crore in gross block, and that was 8 per cent of their cash profits.

The numbers suggest the industry accelerated the payout to shareholders in the post-pandemic period while reinvestment and spending on acquisitions slowed.

The ratio of investment in gross block to cash profit declined to an average of 6.7 per cent during the period FY21 to FY25 from 22 per cent in the period FY16 to FY20.

The ratio of dividend payout (including share buyback) to cash profit jumped, on average, to 76.7 per cent during FY21 to FY25 from 64.1 per cent in the preceding five years (FY16 to FY20).

The industrys apparent lack of investment in new and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), either organically or through overseas acquisition, has come under the scanner as individual companies are now struggling to grow.

TCS, the largest of the five, has announced plans to globally lay off nearly 12,000 employees, or around 2 per cent of its workforce, as it tries to shore up margins amid a slowdown in new orders from global clients.

This has raised fears of a layoff by others too as the industrys business model faces disruption from AI deployment.

The combined revenues of these top five IT companies in FY25 were up just 4.9 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y), growing at the slowest pace since FY18.

But their combined net sales were up by 7.9 per cent, the best in the last three years, thanks to higher margins from a rationalisation in their employee cost.

The industrys revenue slowed further to 3.8 per cent Y-o-Y in Q1FY26.

Analysts say that its tough to link growth with capex or investment, given its people-intensive nature.

Indian IT companies, unlike Western tech giants, have a business model that depends on investment in people rather than in newer technologies or software products.

"The labour intensity of this model is declining due to the wider adoption of AI and other automation technologies, leading to redundancies in their workforce, said Dhananjay Sinha, co-head (research and equity strategy), Systematix Institutional Equity.

According to him, the layoff by TCS is a business decision and should not be directly linked to its past investment decisions.
The way to deal with a bully is to resist bullying, because submission in the first instance only invites even more overbearing demands in future.

What may seem like a small price to pay now will lead to a much higher price later, warns former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

The past week has been a wakeup call for India.

Optimistic assumptions of an upward trajectory in India-United States partnership during Donald Trump's second presidency have been rudely shattered by a 25 per cent tariff on his 'friend' India, threats of unspecified penalties for buying oil and weapons from Russia and petroleum products from Iran, and for being a member of Brics Plus.

He has also disparaged the Indian economy as a dead weight bound to go down the drain, just as he expects his erstwhile friend Russia to do.

This is no longer a trade and tariff war -- it is a geopolitical challenge that uses commercial instruments to bend friend and adversary alike to the current whims of the US President.

Some countries have surrendered to his extravagant and discriminatory demands by promising large investments in the US, which may or may not materialise, by which time Mr Trump may be gone.

Others like China have resisted using their own commercial leverage over the US. India does not have much leverage, so should it just grin and bear it?

The way to deal with a bully is to resist bullying, because submission in the first instance only invites even more overbearing demands in future.

What may seem like a small price to pay now will lead to a much higher price later. Not standing up to Mr Trump's demands now will trap India in an attrition process which will progressively demand even bigger concessions than now.

Not drawing a line is fraught with long-term consequences for India's national security and its credibility and influence in the world.

Will there be a price to pay for India's resistance?

Most certainly, and the country should be prepared for this. What is the extent of our economic and commercial relationship with the US?

India-US trade volume is at around $186 billion, comprising 10.73 per cent of the total. About 18 per cent of India's exports go to the US and India sources 6 per cent of its imports from the US.

A 10 per cent dependence is significant but not unbearable. In terms of foreign direct investment, the US is only the fourth-largest investor, with 11 per cent of a total inflow of $81.04 billion in 2024-2025 -- an important but not irreplaceable source.

It is estimated that India may lose a couple of percentage points in gross domestic product terms if the higher tariffs are imposed, but that is a modest price to pay.

Even as a much weaker country, we have paid much more in the past to take a stand on our vital interests.

The geopolitical ramifications of Mr Trump's actions are even more worrying. He is demanding a veto over India's relations with other countries.

This should be firmly rejected. India has good reasons to be part of Brics Plus, just as it does to be part of the Quad.

The relationship with Russia continues to serve India's interests in many areas, though there is a diversification under way but for our own reasons.

The very volatility in US foreign policy, where friend and foe can be changed on a whim, makes it all the more necessary to maintain and strengthen India's network of partnerships.

The most important asset for India in its external relations has been its credibility and predictability.

Nations can rely on India to follow a consistent path. We should not lose that asset to cater to a mercurial leader, even if he leads the most powerful country in the world.

The credibility and reputation that has been earned over decades should not be sacrificed to assuage a transactional partner.

India should make its economy more outward-oriented but for its own reasons -- not to cater to Trumpian demands.

It is good that India has concluded some trade deals and it should double down and finalise others, as with the European Union.

It has inexplicably dealt itself out of the most dynamic economic region of Southeast Asia for fear of China using that route to dump its goods in India.

This has not led to any reduction in Chinese exports to India, which are now at an all-time high.

We must find a way to reconnect economically with our eastern flank because that has an important geopolitical dimension.

Most countries in this region want India to be a credible countervailing power to China, but that is not possible without a strong economic pillar.

India should apply to become part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership, where currently neither China nor the US is present.

In the current circumstances, insulating ourselves from the vagaries of Trump's policies may be best served by this bold initiative.

A final word -- to those who think we should just buckle down and ride out the Trump presidency because better times will soon return.

Once the facts on the ground have been altered for whatever reason, they are difficult to reverse.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Parnassus Investments, an investment management firm that focuses on owning a concentrated portfolio of U.S. large cap stocks, released its Parnassus Value Equity Fund second-quarter 2025 investor letter. The full letter is available for download here. For the second quarter of 2025, the fund reported a net return of 7.24%, outperforming its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Value Index, which returned 3.79% for the same period. The funds top 5 holdings are also listed in the letter, showing the firms main investment positions heading into 2025.

One of the companies mentioned in the letter is

Pfizer Inc.

(NYSE:PFE). Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States and internationally. Over the past month, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) appreciated by 1.73%, and its shares lost 13.36% of their value over the last 12 months. On August 12, 2025, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) shares closed at $24.65, with a market capitalization of $140.1 billion.

Here is what they have to say about Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) in their investor letter:

"We exited our position in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) due to reduced conviction in its turnaround thesis. This was driven by a weaker research and development pipeline following recent trial setbacks, including an oral GLP-1 drug, as well as increased likelihood of large merger and acquisition activities that could raise leverage amid growing regulatory and tariff headwinds."

Analyst Says Pfizer (PFE) Stock Will Move Too Fast to Catch

Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is not included in our list of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds. According to our data,

99 hedge fund portfolios held positions in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) at the end of the first quarter of 2025, up from

92 in the previous quarter. PFE was able to beat earnings expectations as it reported an EPS of $0.78, beating expectations of $0.58. While we acknowledge the potential of PFE 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.

In another article, we covered Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) and Jim Cramers views on the company. In addition, please check out our hedge fund investor letters Q2 2025 page for more investor letters from hedge funds and other leading investors.

READ NEXT: The Best and Worst Dow Stocks for the Next 12 Months and 10 Unstoppable Stocks That Could Double Your Money.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
'It is something like traditional Indian families.'

'The family might be run by younger people, but if the patriarch says that you should consider someone for some task, it is very difficult for the others to ignore it.'

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in conversation with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat in Nagpur, March 30, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Earlier in July, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat attended the launch of a book on senior RSS leader Moropant Pingle.

Addressing the event, Bhagwat recalled an anecdote in which Pingle reacted to his felicitation on completing 75 years of age by saying that 'it was a signal for him to move aside.'

Given the precedent of Bharatiya Janata Party leaders older than 75 being sent to the Margdarshak Mandal, Opposition parties and political commentators were quick to draw meaning from Bhagwat's remark.

Media reports were abuzz with speculation that it was an indirect signal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will turn 75 on September 17, 2025, to make way for younger leadership.

After Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's surprise resignation, suggestions of a possible rift between the BJP and the RSS grew louder.

However, Dinesh Narayanan, author of The RSS and the Making of the Deep Nation, "doesn't see any ideological differences between the government and the RSS."

"Whatever I've seen of the RSS, usually, things work differently. Their internal discussions are often very different from what is said in public," Narayanan tells Rediff's Utkarsh Mishra in a telephone interview.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's remark, in which he said 'when you are 75, move aside', has created quite a buzz. Many in the media are seeing it as a signal to Modi, who will turn 75 in September. What is your take on this?

As I understand, he was retelling an incident when Moropant Pingle, the late RSS leader who was the architect of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, said -- at an event where the latter was being felicitated on turning 75 -- that the felicitation seems like a signal to him to move aside.

And since Prime Minister Modi is also turning 75 (this September), many interpreted it as a signal, or a message, and has led to much speculation.

But whatever I've seen of the RSS, usually, things work differently. Their internal discussions are often very different from what is said in public, and what is said in public may not have anything to do with what is being discussed internally. I'm not privy to what is being discussed within the organisation.

Now, not only the prime minister, but Mohan Bhagwat himself is turning 75 -- in fact, six days before the PM turns 75.

If there is a rule -- even if it is an informal one that 75 is a retirement or semi-retirement age in the Parivar, he (Bhagwat) himself is turning 75. But there is no indication that he's going to retire or anything like that, right?

Sarsanghchalaks (RSS chiefs) are chosen for life while the prime minister is elected by the people to Parliament for a five year term.

The BJP parliamentary party preferred him to be PM and the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) partners supported the decision.

The parliamentary party can ask him to step down if it wills. So, the prime minister is in the middle of his term, and Mohan Bhagwat is chief for life anyway unless he chooses otherwise.

There is speculation that this is a kind of pressure tactic by which the RSS wants the BJP to elect a president favourable to them.

I have no idea about that and as you said, it is speculation.

I'm not privy to the discussions going on within the party or the RSS about the BJP's presidential election.

Having said that, we also should keep in mind BJP President J P Nadda's interview to the Indian Express on the eve of the Lok Sabha elections last year in which he said that the BJP does not need the RSS any more.

And we know that the BJP presidential election is long overdue. That is not normal for the BJP and the Parivar which claim to be highly disciplined, democratic and process-oriented. What we don't know is exactly what or who is the hurdle.

As you said, what the RSS says in public is very different from what is discussed privately. We have also seen that the BJP always consults the RSS leadership before any big appointment.

So, I don't think the RSS needs to exert pressure on the BJP in such a public way, if at all they want to do it.

My understanding is that usually there is much consultation between the RSS and the BJP leaderships, especially when key appointments are made.

The RSS usually prefers people who have risen through the Sangh system and are steeped in its ideology. I've heard from leaders within the Sangh Parivar that the BJP is under no obligation to accept the recommendations or suggestions from the RSS.

It is the prerogative of the RSS to give suggestions and recommendations as the BJP's ideological parent and mentor.

As an independent organisation within the Parivar, the BJP is at liberty to accept them or not.

Having said that, I would expect that as a political party, it is the BJP's aim to acquire power and stay in power.

Given that there is no other party except the BJP that is an ideological follower of the RSS, I would expect it to do everything in its power to make sure the BJP stays in power.

It is also necessary for it to implement its agenda of building a Hindu nation.

And so it has a vested interest in who runs the organisation and the government. But then, the relationship has its unique dynamics too.

It is something like traditional Indian families, for instance. The family might be run by younger people, but if the patriarch says that you should consider someone for some task, it is very difficult for the others to ignore it.

So, you could say that there is some sort of pressure there. But this pressure is not visible outside the organisation.

They are very good at keeping things secret and confidential.

The RSS always maintains that it is not a political organisation...

Their constitution says that and its leaders insist so...

... but if they are seen exerting pressure on the government like this, then it's perhaps not good for their own standing.

I really won't be able to answer that. For one, I don't know if the RSS is putting pressure in the first place.

Second, I don't know if the current BJP leadership will buckle under pressure, irrespective of who it is from.

As I mentioned earlier, Nadda has made it clear that the BJP does not need the RSS.

In your book, you have explained how Modi's relationship with the RSS was strained from the beginning. But why would there be a difference between him and the RSS now? Isn't he fulfilling all its ideological agenda?

I don't know if there are differences between Modi and the RSS now.

The distance between the RSS and Modi mentioned in my book was when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. This is before 2008.

At that point in time, there was strain between a section of the RSS and Modi.

In fact, many in the RSS leadership were initially opposed to Modi as the prime ministerial candidate.

Sanjay Joshi's strained relationship with Modi and Joshi's removal from the BJP leadership was widely reported.

The late RSS ideologue M G Vaidya had often written articles criticising Modi.

But since 2013, you've seen that the RSS, which was earlier a passive participant in elections, began actively engaging in the BJP's election campaigns.

In fact, media reporting showed that in the recent Maharashtra and Haryana assembly elections, although the Opposition had an upper hand early on, intense work by RSS volunteers was one of the factors that helped the BJP turn the tide.

So, it is clear that the RSS will continue to support the BJP and is willing to put its cadres to election work.

Recently, RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale said we should think about removing 'socialist' and 'secular' from the Preamble of the Constitution.

But, when asked in Parliament, the government said that they have no such plans. This is again seen as an ideological flashpoint between the two.

I don't think it's an ideological flashpoint, really. Because one is an answer in Parliament, and one is the opinion of an organisation.

The RSS has opposed 'socialist' and 'secular' right from 1976 when it was inserted in the Preamble. It's not only these words, the RSS wants the Constitution reviewed.

Mohan Bhagwat had once indicated that the Constitution and jurisprudence should be aligned with Indian value systems.

He had recalled a conversation with then President Pranab Mukherjee, where he suggested to Mukherjee that the Constitution may be legal but not necessarily moral.

When the government says in Parliament that there is no intention of removing 'socialist' and 'secular', we'll have to take the government at face value. That does not necessarily mean that the government cannot change its stance at a later date. It is possible.

If there is no ideological confrontation between the BJP and the RSS, and Modi has created a larger-than-life image of himself, and pushing him aside would not be possible at all, especially during the midterm, why do such speculative reports keep appearing in the media?

Well, it is difficult for me to say why someone is speculating.

I don't see any ideological differences between the government and the RSS.

But there is certainly discomfort in the RSS about the government's economic policies. You can see that the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch, you can see the BMS (Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh), you can see other Parivar organisations, are not really aligned with the government's economic policies.

They have been opposing them publicly as well as in private.

The Sangh, which is an ardent advocate of Swadeshi, is uncomfortable with the government's closeness with the West, especially the United States.

A large section of the RSS believes that multinational corporations enjoy a free run in India.

So, there is a certain discomfort with the economic policies of this government.

But I don't think there is any ideological divergence.
'If you fire two missiles at Jamnagar or ten missiles there, what do you think India will do?'

'India will fire 500 missiles on Tarbela and Mangla, destroy the Sukkur Barrage, destroy Karachi port.'

'When you start issuing threats, it should be with some sense and sensibility.'

'You shouldn't just shoot your mouth off just because you have appointed yourself field marshal.'

IMAGE: Pakistan army chief Syed Asim Munir, right, with some of his top generals inspects a disassembled artillery shell. Photograph: Pakistan military

Pakistan Army Chief General Field Marshal Asim Munir's nuclear threats from US soil over the weekend have sparked intense debate about America's strategic calculus in South Asia and its implications for regional stability.

Speaking at a Pakistani diaspora event in Tampa, Florida, Munir warned of taking 'half the world down with us,' prompting questions about whether this represents tacit US allowance or a dangerous miscalculation by Washington.

In an interview with Prasanna D Zore/Rediff, Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation, the New Delhi think-tank, argues that such inflammatory rhetoric reflects Pakistan's confidence in renewed American backing, suggesting the current US establishment deliberately wants to "cut the Indians down to size" following New Delhi's resistance to trade concessions and tariff pressures.

How extraordinary is it that Asim Munir issued his nuclear threat from US soil? Does this suggest tacit US allowance or miscalculation?

This wasn't at a CENTCOM event as initially reported by many news agencies. The CENTCOM event was separate -- General Munir had attended to felicitate General Michael Kurilla, the outgoing commander of the United States Central Command, at his retirement function in Tampa, Florida. This was at an event for the Pakistani diaspora in the US.

Although there are reports that an Israeli general was also present, this particular event where he spoke was specifically for the Pakistani community.

Something similar he had said even on his last visit, so there is nothing unique in what he has said. I'm sure the Americans know where he's coming from, and yet they don't object because they think that the Pakistanis are useful for them -- either as a lever against India or simply for their own purposes.

This is a point in time where the Pakistanis can literally say anything and then deny it, because denials have come from the Pakistani side saying that he said this in response to a particular question and that he was being benign about it -- that they don't want war because if there is a nuclear war, then half the world will be destroyed.

They are putting it in those terms, but quite clearly this was nuclear sabre-rattling.

What emboldens Munir to use such outrageous language?

Look, let's face it, we need to start getting used to the kind of people who are now going to be heading the Pakistan army. These are the post-1980 generation -- the chaps who have come in when the Pakistan army transformed from the old British Indian colonial army into an Islamised army.

Looking at his own background, you should rest assured that there will be more such rhetoric from the Pakistanis.

Secondly, what emboldens him is the fact that the Pakistanis feel they are in with the Americans now and they can say certain things and get away with it.

You remember the 1980s when they were the stalwart allies -- Punjab was burning and the Americans turned a blind eye, the Brits turned a blind eye.

Even till the early 1990s, they turned a blind eye to terrorism in Kashmir and all the other activities that the Pakistanis were doing.

It's like asking what emboldens the Khalistanis in Canada -- because they have a licence to operate given to them by the Canadians.

What emboldens any goon? That there's no check or hindrance. That is what is emboldening the Pakistanis.

Is there something deeper in the US' muted response to Munir's remarks that signals strategic indifference to stability in South Asia?

I think they are actually encouraging the Pakistanis to do this because they think that the Indians have got too big for their boots.

The current American establishment thinks that we need to cut the Indians down to size, and they will pull out all stops to do that.

People think this is just about some trade deal, but why should India take GM seeds from the Americans? Why should we go into bondage with the Americans on something as basic as seeds?

There have to be certain red lines on what we want, what we can take, and what we will not take.

But they want us to kowtow to them because we don't hold them accountable like the Chinese do. With the Chinese, they'll keep giving waivers, but with us, they will tighten the screws because they think they can do it.

Can one infer that the US is using Munir's threats against India to get even with the Modi government for not succumbing to tariff threats?

I won't say the US president is firing from Munir's shoulders, but he doesn't object if somebody is doing this. What he is probably trying to do is use Pakistan as a tool against India -- partly to negotiate, partly to cut India to size.

That's the old American game, or at least that's what has been the feeling in India -- that it's the Americans who ensure that things never settle down in this region. I would add the Brits to that, but they don't exercise the same power as they did. They just have a great ability to sabotage things and disturb things.

The Americans are playing that game right now, and they might have some uses for Pakistan for personal or strategic benefit. No matter what you do, they're not going to let go of that lever.

Do you think the Indian establishment is taking Munir seriously, or is there a need to recalculate our strategy vis-a-vis Pakistan's nuclear posturing?

I suspect that recalculation is already happening.

One thing which recent operations suggest is that the Indian armed forces are quietly preparing their battle plans and strategies, and they're not necessarily declaring everything to the public.

Before the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Munir gave a very communal speech, and now he's talking openly about nuclear threats -- about firing missiles at the Indus dam if constructed and also firing missiles at Jamnagar.

If you fire two missiles at Jamnagar or ten missiles there, then what? What do you think India will do?

India will fire 500 missiles on Tarbela and Mangla, destroy the Sukkur Barrage, destroy Karachi port, destroy anything of any value in Pakistan.

When you start issuing threats, it should be with some sense and sensibility. You shouldn't just shoot your mouth off just because you have appointed yourself field marshal.
The signboard of a Hindu temple was defaced in the United States city of Indiana, an incident described by the Indian consulate as "reprehensible".

IMAGE: BAPS Hindu temple in Greenwood, Indiana, has been vandalised with anti-India graffiti. Photograph: X

The "hateful act" took place at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood city, the temple's official public affairs account said in an X post on Tuesday.

This was the fourth time in less than a year that a BAPS temple has been targeted, it said.

The Indian Consulate in Chicago took strong note of the act and called it "reprehensible".

"Desecration of main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana is reprehensible," it said in an X post, adding that it has raised the matter with the law enforcement authorities for "prompt action".

It added that the consul general also addressed a gathering of devotees and local leadership including the Mayor of Greenwood, "calling for unity & solidarity, and vigilance against miscreants there."

The temple administration in its post also said that the act has "strengthened our community's resolve, and we remain united in our stand against anti-religious behavior."

In March, the BAPS Hindu temple in California was desecrated by some unknown person in another such incident in the US.
The land pooling policy aims to kick-start a new wave of urbanisation in the predominantly rural state.

IMAGE: Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee farmers takes part in a motorcycle rally in Amritsar, August 11, 2025, to protest against the Land Pooling Policy 2025, here and below. Photographs: ANI Photo

Punjab farmers are back on the streets. This time not against the Centre, but in protest against a controversial land pooling policy of the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party government notified in June.

The policy aims to kick-start a new wave of urbanisation in the predominantly rural state.

Some experts say it was announced by using certain provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Act of 2013, popularly known as LARR-2013.

According to them, the government's argument is that LARR, with its mandatory requirements such as social and environmental impact assessments and 70 per cent Gram Sabha consent, unduly delays the land acquisition process for urbanisation.

Hence, a new approach was needed to expedite it.

The land pooling policy is applicable to around 164 villages across Punjab, covering around 65,000 acres.

Of this, around 48,000 acres (roughly 74 per cent) is proposed to be acquired in and around the industrial city of Ludhiana.

In fact, land will be acquired around 27 major cities to set up urban clusters.

While the policy states that the submission of land by farmers for pooling is 'purely voluntary', critics argue that invoking Section 11 of the LARR implies that farmers lose the right to alter land use once it is pooled.

Policy details

According to experts, if a farmer contributes one acre of agricultural land for pooling in residential areas, he will receive 1,000 square yards of developed residential plots and 200 square yards of commercial plots (including parking) in return.

Similarly, there are different matrices for land to be returned if it is pooled for industrial, institutional, commercial, or mixed-use sectors.

In short, some experts said that broadly if a farmer gives one acre of land for pooling, only about 25 per cent will be returned to him as developed plots, while the rest will go for pooling.

Reports suggest around 45 per cent of landholdings in Punjab are less than five acres, though regions like Muktsar, Fazilka and Ludhiana in the state's south-west have larger holdings.

However, if large farmers -- those owning land parcels of 10 acres or more -- give their land for pooling to urban authorities such as the Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA), Greater Mohali Area Development Authority or Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority, they must pay an external development charge or Rs 1 crore, whichever is higher.

In some cases, this development charge could go up to Rs 2 crore.

Compensation structure

Initially, the state government proposed an annual compensation of Rs 30,000 per acre to farmers, who opted to give their land for pooling, for three years from the date of possession or until the developed plots are handed over, whichever is earlier.

However, after protests, this compensation amount was raised to Rs 50,000 per acre per annum, which could go up to Rs 1 lakh.

Some experts said a new provision has now been introduced: If the delivery of developed plots is delayed beyond the stipulated timeline, the compensation will increase by 10 per cent annually until plots are handed over.

They point out that the Mann government's policy is on the lines of the one announced in 2013 by the then Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party government -- except for a crucial difference: The earlier policy gave farmers the choice to either participate in pooling or accept compensation under the LARR.

"At that time, acquiring land wasn't much of an issue because most farmers took the compensation and moved on," said senior journalist Hamir Singh.

He pointed out that only about 22 to 25 per cent of people in each village actually own land. The rest are landless labourers, artisans, or non-farm workers whose livelihoods depend on that land.

"What happens to their livelihood when the land is taken away? The new policy does nothing to address their concerns," Singh said.

Farmers on the warpath

The policy, its inherent contradictions, and a deep mistrust of both state and central authorities have put farmers back on the warpath.

Tractor marches are being held in major cities, while the Samyukta Kisan Morcha has called for a statewide protest on August 24.

Farmers cite past experiences in which colonies promised under similar schemes were never built, and land acquired decades ago remains undeveloped.

With Punjab already reeling under debt, many fear the state may stop paying compensation after a few years, leaving them without land or return.

"Authorities like PUDA won't develop the land on their own but hand it over to a coloniser selected through bidding. What is the guarantee that the plots will be developed on time?" a senior farmer leader asked.

Ajay Vir Jakhar, chairman of the Bharat Krishak Samaj and former chair of the Punjab State Farmers and Farm Workers Commission, called the policy fundamentally flawed. "Punjab doesn't need more colonisation," he said.

Mann in a tight spot

Widespread opposition to the policy, and its political ramifications with farmers being the state's largest vote bank, has pushed Mann into a corner.

He has toured several villages to convince farmers, but critics say most visits have been to areas not directly affected by the policy.

The Opposition Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP have also strongly opposed the policy.

To address concerns, the government has announced multiple tweaks since the policy was first notified in June.

The latest change involves staggering its implementation, initially restricting it to larger cities such as Patiala, Ludhiana, and Mohali, with gradual expansion to smaller towns.

The government claims it has already acquired some land in Mohali and Ludhiana under the new policy. But farmers remain unconvinced.

"The Punjab government will have to withdraw this land pooling policy," said Ramandeep Mann, agricultural policy expert and farmers' rights activist.

"There was no consultation with farmers. The trust deficit is massive. In many cases, the financial burden for acquisition falls on the farmers themselves," he added.

Mann cited multiple past instances where land acquired for urbanisation in Punjab was never developed.

"Even when development happens," he said, "there's no guaranteed price realisation. All this makes the policy completely untenable for farmers."

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
The city civic body on Wednesday told the Bombay high court it intends to allow controlled feeding of pigeons for two hours each morning at the Dadar Kabutarkhana subject to conditions.

Photograph: ANI Photo

A bench of Justices G S Kulkarni and Arif Doctor, however, stated that before granting any such permission, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has to first issue a public notice inviting objections and then take a decision on allowing controlled feeding of the birds at the popular site in Dadar.

Since the BMC's decision to close kabutarkhanas (pigeon feeding spots) in the city and prohibit feeding of pigeons was in larger interest of public health, the sanctity of the same has to be maintained, the court noted, while hearing a bunch of petitions.

Last week, tarpaulin sheets were placed at the Dadar Kabutarkhana, a popular pigeon feeding site, by the BMC to prevent people from offering grains to the birds, a move which had led to protest during which the covers were forcibly removed by agitators.

Pursuant to this, a few individuals submitted an application to the BMC seeking interim arrangements for controlled feeding of the pigeons.

On Wednesday, BMC counsel Ram Apte told the court the civic body intends to permit controlled feeding of the birds from 6 am to 8 am subject to certain conditions.

The bench then questioned if the civic body had first invited objections to the application (seeking nod for controlled pigeon feeding) before taking its decision.

"You (BMC) cannot just allow feeding now once you have already taken a closure decision keeping public health in mind. You will have to take a well considered decision," the HC observed.

Once an application is received, you need to issue a notice and invite objections from people and then take a decision. Once you have taken a decision keeping people's health in mind then you need to maintain that sanctity, the bench affirmed.

The Maharashtra government on Wednesday also submitted a list of 11 names to be part of a committee that would carry out a scientific study on the issue of pigeon feeding at public places and its impact on human health.

The court said the government shall notify the committee by August 20.

Advocate General Birendra Saraf, appearing for the state government, said the committee would comprise officials from state public health and town planning departments and medical experts.

The court was hearing a bunch of petitions filed by people who regularly feed pigeons at kabutarkhanas. The petitioners have challenged the civic body's decision to ban such feedings and close down kabutarkhanas in the metropolis over potential health hazards from the exercise.

The high court had last month refused to grant any interim relief to the petitioners, but had asked the civic authorities not to demolish any heritage kabutarkhanas. The court had also said the BMC could take action as per law against those feeding pigeons at public places.

The Supreme Court had earlier this week refused to intervene in the HC order.

Senior counsel Anil Sakhare, appearing for the petitioners who have sought permission to offer grains to pigeons at the Dadar Kabutarkhana, said once the BMC takes a decision permitting controlled feeding, then they would move the HC seeking modification of the earlier order refusing interim relief.
A pickup van crashed into a parked truck in Rajasthan's Dausa district in the early hours of Wednesday, killing 11 people, including seven children, and injuring eight others, police said.

IMAGE: Injured persons being carried to a hospital after a pickup van crashed into a parked truck in Rajasthan's Dausa district. Photograph: ANI on X

The passengers of the pickup vehicle were returning to their village in Uttar Pradesh's Etah after visiting Khatu Shyam and Salasar Balaji temple when the accident occurred on Manoharpur highway around 4-5 am, Dausa Superintendent of Police Sagar told PTI.

Seven children and four women died in the accident, he said.

Of the 11 killed, seven have been identified as Poorvi (3), Daksh (12), Seema (25), Priyanka (25), Anshu (26), Saurabh (28) and Sheela (35), according to officials.

Twenty people were on board the pickup vehicle when it rammed into a stationary truck in the service lane of the highway, the SP said, adding that one of the eight injured is in critical condition.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident.

In a post on X in Hindi, the CM said," The news of loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured. May God grant a place at His divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured."

CM Sharma has instructed officials to ensure proper arrangements for the treatment of the injured.

Meanwhile, former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and other leaders also express sorrow over the incident.
India has two major diplomatic engagements next week as it is set to host Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi while External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar heads to Moscow, amid a strain in New Delhi's ties with the Trump administration over its procurement of Russian crude oil.

IMAGE: NSA Ajit Doval meets Wang Yi, Member, Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and China's Minister of Foreign Affairs, in Beijing, June 24, 2025. Photograph: XP Division, MEA/ANI Photo

Wang is scheduled to visit India on August 18 to hold border talks with NSA Ajit Doval, days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned trip to China to attend the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), authoritative sources said.

Jaishankar is travelling to Moscow on August 20 on a two-day visit to hold crucial talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, and the focus of the trip is likely to be on preparing grounds for President Vladimir Putin's much awaited trip to India later this year.

The external affairs minister's trip to Russia comes days after Doval travelled to Moscow and met the President and several top-ranking officials.

India's continued procurement of crude oil from Russia is likely to figure in Jaishankar's meetings with Russian leaders.

US President Donald Trump last week issued an executive order slapping an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods as a penalty for New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian oil. The additional duties raised the overall tariff on India to 50 percent.

The Chinese foreign minister is visiting India primarily to hold the next round of Special Representatives (SR) dialogue on the boundary question, authoritative sources said.

Wang and Doval are the designated special representatives for the boundary talks.

The NSA travelled to China in December last and held the SR talks with Wang, weeks after Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping decided to revive various dialogue mechanisms between the two sides at a meeting in the Russian city of Kazan.

It is learnt that Wang will also hold a separate meeting with Jaishankar.

Modi is expected to travel to China later this month to attend the SCO summit.

As per the plan, Modi will embark on a visit to Japan around August 29 and after concluding the trip, he will travel to the northern Chinese city of Tianjin for the summit to be held on August 31 and September 1.

Modi's visit to China is being planned amid efforts by the two sides to repair their bilateral ties which came under severe strain following the deadly clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in June 2020.

The military standoff in eastern Ladakh began in May 2020 and the clashes at the Galwan Valley in June that year resulted in a severe strain in ties.

The face-off effectively ended following completion of the disengagement process from the last two friction points of Demchok and Depsang under an agreement finalised on October 21 last year.

The decision to revive various dialogue mechanisms was taken at a meeting between Modi and Xi in Kazan on October 23, 2024.

The Modi-Xi meeting came two days after India and China firmed up a disengagement pact for Depsang and Demchok.

The two sides also initiated a number of initiatives to rebuild the ties that included resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and New Delhi restarting issuance of tourist visas to Chinese nationals.

Both sides are also discussing modalities to resume direct flight services between the two countries.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar visited China in the last two months to attend SCO meetings.

China is the current chair of the SCO.
A Delhi court on Wednesday allowed 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana to have three phone calls this month with his brother to discuss engaging a private counsel, court sources said.

IMAGE: Terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana. Photograph: ANI Photo

Special judge Chander Jit Singh also extended the judicial custody of Rana till September 8 after the accused appeared virtually, they added.

According to the sources, the judge during the in-chamber proceeding said the phone calls by Rana will be recorded and the conversations will have to be in English or Hindi in the presence of prison authorities.

Legal aid counsel Piyush Sachdeva was stated to have sought time from the court to scrutinise certain documents in the chargesheet and supplementary chargesheet.

Rana is allegedly a close associate of 26/11 main conspirator David Coleman Headley, alias Daood Gilani, a US citizen.

He was brought to India after the US Supreme Court on April 4 dismissed his review plea against his extradition to India.

On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists went on a rampage, carrying out attacks on a railway station, two luxury hotels, and a Jewish centre, sneaking into India's financial capital through the sea route.

A total of 166 people were killed in the assault that lasted for nearly 60 hours.
An 18-year-old girl from Gujarat, who was a victim of suspected honour killing, has cracked the highly competitive National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, a police official said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The teen from Banaskantha district was allegedly killed by her father and two uncles on June 24 at her native village, said Danta division assistant superintendent of police Suman Nala.

To prepare for the all-India medical entrance exam, the victim had moved to Palanpur town, and during that time, she got into a live-in relationship with a man.

She had given NEET a few months back, but it is still unclear if she wanted to become a doctor or a nurse. As per the results announced recently, she has cleared the test with good marks, said Nala.

Based on a complaint submitted by her live-in partner Haresh Chaudhary, the Tharad police in the district on August 6 booked the girl's father Sendhabhai Patel and uncle Shivrambhai Patel for the murder, as they were against the relationship, Nala said.

After the registration of FIR, the police had arrested Shivrambhai and added the name of one Naran Patel to the FIR as co-accused, said the official.

"We arrested Naran Patel on Tuesday. He is a cousin of Shivrambhai and Sendhabhai, who is still absconding," said Nala.

Two weeks ago, the police launched a probe into the teenager's death after Chaudhary, a resident of Vadgamda village, submitted an application alleging she might have been killed by her kin as they were opposed to their relationship and wanted to marry her off to someone else, Nala said.

According to the FIR, Chaudhary, who is already married and has a son, fell in love with the girl after he gave her a lift from Tharad town to Palanpur.

Nala said it is still unclear if Chaudhary had told the girl about his marital status.

In May, both eloped to Ahmedabad, where they signed a formal agreement for a live-in relationship. They subsequently travelled to Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

However, on June 12, a police team from Tharad and a relative of the girl tracked them down to a hotel in Rajasthan.

The girl was handed over to her uncle Shivrambhai, while Chaudhary was arrested in an old case registered in Kutch district under the Prohibition Act.

After coming out of jail on June 21, Chaudhary learnt that the girl had messaged him twice through Instagram on June 17, expressing the fear that she might be killed by her kin or married off to someone else.

Chaudhary told the police he couldn't read her messages earlier since he was in jail. He later contacted a lawyer, who filed a habeas corpus petition in the Gujarat high court seeking that the girl be produced before the court.

However, on June 25, two days before the hearing, Chaudhary learnt that she had died on the night of June 24 and her last rites were also performed the next morning.

According to the FIR, the girl's father and uncle had decided to kill her, fearing that she might once again elope with the complainant.

When the girl was at Shivrambhai's house at Dantiya village in Tharad on the night of June 24, she was offered milk containing sleeping pills. When she fell unconscious, the duo strangled her and performed her last rites the next morning to hide their crime, said Nala.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address the annual high-level session of the United Nations General Assembly in September, according to a provisional list of speakers issued by the United Nations.

IMAGE: PM Narendra Modi had travelled to the US in February this year for a bilateral meeting with Trump in the White House in Washington, DC. Photograph: Press Information Bureau

The 80th session of the UNGA will open on September 9. The high-level General Debate will run from September 23-29, with Brazil as the traditional first speaker of the session, followed by the US.

US President Donald Trump will address world leaders from the iconic UNGA podium on September 23, his first address to the UN session in his second term in the White House.

According to the provisional list of speakers for the high-level debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly, India's "Head of Government (HG)" will address the session on the morning of September 26.

The Heads of Government of Israel, China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are also scheduled to address the UNGA general debate on the same day.

Modi had travelled to the US in February this year for a bilateral meeting with Trump in the White House in Washington, DC. In a joint statement issued after their meeting, Modi and Trump had announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by the fall of 2025.

Even as trade negotiations were ongoing, Trump imposed tariffs totalling 50 per cent on India, including 25 per cent for New Delhi's purchases of Russian oil that will come into effect from August 27.

Responding to the tariffs, India's Ministry of External Affairs has said that the targeting of the country is unjustified and unreasonable.

"Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security," it said.

Last week's announcement of Trump's executive order imposing the additional 25 per cent tariff came at a time when a team from the US is scheduled to visit India from August 25 for the sixth round of negotiations for the proposed bilateral trade agreement.

The two countries are aiming to conclude the first phase of the pact by fall (October-November) this year.

The UNGA list of speakers for the General Debate is provisional, and there is a possibility of changes in schedules and speakers over the next few weeks. The list will continue to be updated accordingly.

Considered the busiest diplomatic season of the year at the United Nations Headquarters, the high-level session opens in September annually.

The session this year comes amid the continued Israel-Hamas war as well as the Ukraine conflict.

Trump has said that in the six months of his second presidential term, he has solved several wars, including a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Cambodia and Thailand, Israel and Iran, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt and Ethiopia, and Serbia and Kosovo.

Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for stopping the May conflict between India and Pakistan.
Key Points

Occidental Petroleum made a huge splash when it outbid Chevron to buy Anadarko Petroleum.

Oxy's business hit a rough patch shortly after the Anadarko deal, but it has a more clear direction now.

The energy company isn't as big as some of its peers, but it is working hard to bulk up.

10 stocks we like better than Occidental Petroleum 

The name Occidental Petroleum (NYSE: OXY) gets more attention than it used to, thanks to the involvement of Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A)(NYSE: BRK.B), the company Buffett runs. Given the Oracle of Omaha's fame as an investor, some might buy Occidental Petroleum for this fact alone.

But you'll probably want to get a bit more of an understanding here, because Buffett also owns Chevron (NYSE: CVX), a far larger energy company. There's a lot to unpack.

Why did Buffett get involved in Occidental Petroleum?

Occidental Petroleum has a market cap of around $40 billion, which makes it a large company but a relatively small energy business. To put some perspective on that, ExxonMobil is an industry giant and has a market cap of roughly $450 billion. Chevron, for reference, has a market cap of around $300 billion.

Image source: Getty Images.

Why does size matter here? Because all three energy companies use the same basic business model. They are what are known as integrated energy companies, with operations that span from the upstream (energy production), through the midstream (pipelines), and all the way to the downstream (chemicals and refining). They are, therefore, competitors, with Oxy, as it is more commonly known, the small fry.

But Oxy managed to punch above its weight in 2019 when it bought Anadarko out from under Chevron. That's when Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway got involved, helping to finance Oxy's winning bid for Anadarko. It was a huge sign that Oxy isn't happy living in the shadows -- it wants to grow so it can better compete with the energy sector's largest players. The growth opportunity here is why you buy Oxy.

The problem with Occidental Petroleum

There are some important nuances here, though. For example, the purchase of Anadarko left Oxy's balance sheet in a weakened state. When oil prices crashed during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the company was forced to cut its dividend.

However, Oxy has worked hard to strengthen its financial position. And it has already gotten back on the growth via acquisition track.

That said, this growth-oriented energy company has a somewhat modest dividend yield of 2.2%. Exxon's yield is 3.7%, while Chevron's yield is 4.4%. Clearly, if you are buying Oxy, you are buying for the growth, not the income.
'Main chunauti deta hun ke ek naam bhi ghuspaithiya ka bataye jiska SIR mein samne aya ho ya delete hua ho (I challenge you to name even one infiltrator who was identified or deleted in the SIR).'

IMAGE: Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav addresses a press conference, at his residence in Patna, August 10, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday dared Union Minister Amit Shah to produce a list of names of "ghuspaithiya" (infiltrators) that had been deleted from the draft electoral rolls.

The draft was published on August 1 following a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, which had been carried out by the Election Commission of India in Bihar for over a month.

Tejashwi, who is also the Leader of the Opposition, accused Shah and other senior BJP leaders of spreading lies and baseless claims as part of their political agenda.

"Main chunauti deta hun ke ek naam bhi ghuspaithiya ka bataye jiska SIR mein samne aya ho ya delete hua ho (I challenge you to name even one infiltrator who was identified or deleted in the SIR)," Tejashwi said in chaste Hindi while addressing a press conference at his official residence.

Tejashwi, who has been aggressively questioning the SIR exercise, was referencing Amit Shah's visit to Bihar last week when the latter had alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders were opposing the SIR because "infiltrators are their vote bank".

"Before the Bihar assembly elections, should the names of infiltrators be removed from the voter list or not?" Shah had asked while addressing a rally. "The Constitution of India does not give the right to vote to those who are not born in India."

Tejashwi responded by pointing out that the BJP-led NDA has been in power at the centre for over 11 years, and asked who had stopped Amit Shah from identifying and taking action against infiltrators if they existed, as he repeatedly alleged.

He stated that it is not the job of the Election Commission to identify and trace infiltrators. "Has the Election Commission of India given any names of infiltrators that were deleted in its affidavit to the Supreme Court of India in connection with the hearing on the SIR?" Tejashwi asked.

Tejashwi further said that despite allegations of vote fraud (vote chori), the Chief Election Commissioner was not addressing the nation to end suspicion and confusion. "Who is stopping him from replying and explaining directly?"

On August 1, the Election Commission published the draft electoral roll following the SIR, in which the names of 6.5 million voters were removed.

Last month, during the highly publicised SIR exercise, a report citing unnamed field-level officials of the Election Commission of India who were involved in the SIR, claimed that infiltrators' names had been found in the voter lists in the Seemanchal region bordering Nepal.

This triggered a fresh and heated debate over alleged infiltrators on voter lists in the state.

BJP leaders supported the report and claimed that Bihar's Seemanchal, which comprises the districts of Kishanganj, Purnea, Katihar, and Araria, is a Muslim-dominated and economically backward area. They claimed that the region, known for high poverty, unemployment, migration for livelihood, and lack of development, is a hub for infiltrators.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
The Congress on Wednesday said Rahul Gandhi's lawyer raised the issue of threat to his life without his consent and will take back the statement in court on Thursday.

Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: File image of Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi speaking in the House.

An application, filed before judicial magistrate (first class) Amol Shinde in Pune by Gandhi's lawyer Milind Pawar, said that Gandhi could face harm from the followers of the ideology of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Nathuram Godse, and providing "preventive protection" is the state's constitutional obligation.

Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said Gandhi's lawyer raised the issue of a threat to his life in the court without his consent.

"Mr Gandhi has strong objection to this and tomorrow (Thursday) his lawyer will take back this statement in court," Khera said in a post on X.

He also shared a press release by the lawyer which said "the Pursis dated 13.08.2025 was filed by me in the court without instructions from the client".

"The contents of the Pursis were drafted by me without consulting my client Shri. Rahul Gandhi. My client has taken strong exception to filing of this Pursis dated 13.08.2025 and has expressed his disagreement with the contents of the Pursis," Pawar said.

"I shall file a formal application tomorrow for withdrawal of the said Pursis before the Hon'ble Court," he said.

The case, the trial of which is yet to start, pertains to certain comments allegedly made by Gandhi against V D Savarkar, freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue.

The application said that complainant Satyaki Savarkar had admitted that he is also a direct descendant, through maternal lineage, of Nathuram Godse and Gopal Godse, principal accused in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Rahul Gandhi is the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and recently held a press conference in New Delhi, placing before the nation evidence of "electoral fraud" by the Election Commission, the application said.

Gandhi also staged a protest in the Parliament complex, raising slogans such as "vote chor sarkar".

"In light of the documented history of violent and anti-constitutional tendencies linked to the complainant's lineage, and considering the prevailing political climate, there exists a clear, reasonable, and substantial apprehension that Rahul Gandhi may face harm, wrongful implication, or other forms of targeting by persons subscribing to the ideology of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar," the application stated.

"In such circumstances, preventive protection is not only prudent but is a constitutional obligation upon the state," it added.

Advocate Pawar had said earlier this 'Pursis' or application was submitted as a precautionary measure with the objective of "legally safeguarding the fairness, integrity, and transparency of the present proceedings".
Rajiv Pratap Rudy maintained his over 25-year dominance in the Constitution Club of India management, prevailing over the fellow Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sanjeev Balyan in one of its most keenly contested elections that saw voting from heavyweights like Home Minister Amit Shah and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

IMAGE: BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy (left) with Trinamool Congress MP Prasun Banerjee at the Parliament House during the Monsoon Session, in New Delhi, July 23, 2025. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo

Rudy received 391 votes against Balyan's 291 for the key position of secretary (Administration), and all members from his panel, barring one, were elected for the position of 11 executive members, said the officials handling the poll held on Tuesday.

Amid celebration by his supporters, the fifth-term Lok Sabha MP from Saran in Bihar highlighted the presence of members from different parties, including the BJP, Congress, Samajwadi Party and the Trinamool Congress, among the new office-bearers.

"It's a beautiful victory for all the parliamentarians and all those who came to vote and endorse the relentless effort of the team for the last two decades... It's a beautiful experience," Rudy said.

With two seasoned politicians from the same party slugging it out, political battlelines were drawn along unusual lines. Members of the opposition INDIA bloc were seen to be rallying behind Rudy, while Balyan's campaign, spearheaded by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, drew more support from the ruling party members, a section of whom voted for the incumbent too.

The club's election, whose reverberations were hardly felt outside the club's precincts earlier and never considered much of a news story, launched social media trends and numerous stories as it was clear that leading figures from different political parties were unusually interested in shaping its outcome.

Rudy's personal connect, his Bihar roots and the ever-lurking caste angle played their part as well, more so as his rival, a former Union minister like him, was never seen to be invested much in the club's affairs before he decided to throw his hat in the ring.

Sobriquets like "Thakur vs Jat" or "BJP Vs BJP" were tossed around, even though the two candidates personally refrained from any controversial turn in their campaigns that is often associated with competitive electoral battle.

Dubey, however, hinted at the support Rudy drew from Opposition parties and credited Balyan, a Jat leader from western Uttar Pradesh, for enhancing the club's prestige.

Balyan's strength ensured that Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge came to vote, he said, claiming that neither Gandhi nor any of the ministers of the then UPA government had turned up to poll when her party member Jai Prakash Agarwal had contested against Rudy in 2005 and 2010.

A club official, though, claimed that Rudy, till this poll, had never faced any electoral challenge since he was nominated to the position by the then Speaker G M C Balayogi in 1999.

The post and other management positions were opened to election in 2009, he said. The Speaker is the ex-officio president of the club, but the Secretary (Administration) plays a crucial role in its executive functioning.

Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghosh claimed on X that the candidate backed by Shah and BJP president J P Nadda, who also voted along with several other ministers such as Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju besides a few governors, has lost.

Over 680 valid votes were cast out of the total electors of 1,295 current and former MPs, officials said, making it one of the highest turnouts for the election to the club's office-bearers.

Several Union ministers and governors, like Shiv Pratap Shukla of Himachal Pradesh, voted as contestants lobbied intensively to rally their supporters.

While Rudy had listed the addition of numerous facilities to the club and its modernisation under his tenure to seek another term, Balyan was rooting for a change, claiming that the club should focus on catering to MPs and former MPs and not "outsiders" like IAS and IPS officers.

Among those elected to the 11-member Executive Committee are Naresh Agarwal, Prasun Banerjee, Pradeep Gandhi, Naveen Jindal, Deepender Singh Hooda, N K Premachandran, Pradip Kumar Varma, Jasbir Singh Gill, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Shrirang Appa Barne and Akshay Yadav.
In its order on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court has said the judiciary bears the sole responsibility to "possess the courage and strength" to remind people of truths that they may not prefer to hear.

IMAGE: A view of the Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo

In its August 11 order, which was uploaded on the apex court's website on Wednesday, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan directed authorities in Delhi-NCR to start picking up stray dogs from all localities "at the earliest" and relocate the animals to dog shelters.

"The judiciary must not assume or take on the colouration of the prevailing popular sentiments of the time, for its role is not to echo the passions of the moment but to uphold the enduring principles of justice, conscience and equity," the order said.

"As the sentinel on the qui vive, a guardian of rights, the judiciary bears the solemn responsibility to possess the courage and the strength to remind the people of truths that they may not like or prefer not to hear," it added.

The bench said it is conscious of the "genuine love and care" towards stray dogs that many members of the public share and urged them to "come forward and become a part of this exercise" and to adorn the care and upkeep of the canines responsibly at dog shelters or pounds.

"In light of the concerns of the interveners, we urge all to adopt and give dogs a shelter in their homes. However, we do not ascribe to the virtue signalling of all those who share love and concern for the animals," the order noted.

It said the court is conscious of and sensitive towards coexistence but the idea behind coexistence is not the existence of one's life at the cost of the other.

The court underlined a "virtual divide" being attempted to be created between "animal lovers" and those indifferent towards animals.

"But the heart of the problem remains unanswered, for all practical reasons," it said.

"As a court, our heart pains equally for everyone. We condemn those who, beneath the cloak of 'love and care' for the voiceless, pursue the warmth of self-congratulation. The directions given by us, as a court which functions for the welfare of the people, are both in the interest of humans as well as dogs. This is not personal," it added.

The bench passed a slew of directions while hearing a suo-motu case initiated on July 28 over stray-dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children, in the national capital.

It referred to a note for hearing submitted by senior advocate Gaurav Agrawal, who is assisting the court as an amicus curiae. The note contained details about reported dog bites in India in recent times.

"The exercise that we propose to undertake is not to be performed in a casual manner. The burning issue that we have embarked upon is not driven by a momentary impulse," the bench said.

"On the contrary, it is only after the deepest of deliberations, and having reached the firm conclusion about the systematic failure of the concerned authorities over the past two decades to address an issue that strikes at the heart of public safety that we have decided to take the matter in our hands," it added.

Referring to the disturbing pattern of dog bites, the bench said now is not the time for any resistance or hesitation born of complacency.

It said streets should not prove to be vulnerable places.

"Among a bundle of concerns, we are at pains to take cognisance of the experiences of visually-impaired persons, young children, elderly persons, people from a humble background who are not able to afford even a day's meal, let alone the medical expenses. The visually-impaired persons are at the highest risk of dog bites as their primary support, their canes, are seen as threats by the dogs," it said.

The bench also said there is no way one can identify or classify between a rabies-carrying dog and other dogs.

"It is often said that 'no person is above the law'. However, of equal significance is the flip side of that maxim -- 'no person is below the law' either," it said.

It directed the Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and authorities in Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad to start picking up stray dogs.

It said if any individual or organisation comes in the way of picking up stray dogs and if it is reported to the court, it shall take the strictest of actions.

The bench directed the authorities to immediately create dog shelters or pounds and report to it about the creation of such infrastructure within eight weeks.

It said stray dogs would be detained in shelters and not be released on streets, colonies or public places.

"We are mindful of the fact that the exercise of rounding up and relocation of the stray dogs in the shelters and pounds carries concerns over the well-being of such stray dogs. We are sympathetic to their lives as well. Accordingly, we make it clear to all authorities concerned and the personnel deployed at such shelters or pounds that at no stage should these dogs be subjected to any mistreatment, cruelty or deplorable standards of care," it said.

Besides several other directions, the bench clarified that it would be open to the authorities to decide the viability of implementing an adoption scheme in respect of the stray dogs that would be kept at the shelters.
'India is too important to the United States for there to be any kind of a permanent bump in the relationship.'

IMAGE: Pakistan army chief Syed Asim Munir. Photograph: General Asim Munir/Facebook

International security scholar Max Abrahms says President Donald Trump's second administration appears to be "tilting towards Pakistan and away from India," citing recent diplomatic, military and trade signals that he says undermine years of strategic investment in the US-India relationship.

In an interview with ANI, Abrahms said he was not surprised by remarks from Pakistan's army chief Asim Munir, who made a nuclear threat from American soil. "I'm not surprised that Pakistani officials are engaging in sabre rattling and playing the nuclear threat card, we've heard that before," he said.

"What we had not heard before is this sort of nuclear threat from American soil. And if this was the only incident, I would find it rather unremarkable. But what we are currently witnessing is a trend where it appears that this second Trump administration is tilting towards Pakistan and away from India. We've actually seen it throughout this whole summer."

Abrahms, author of a book on terrorist dynamics, said he could not fully understand the administration's approach."

US-India relations are the product of a tremendous amount of effort and investment," he said, recalling that during Trump's campaign season, deepening trade and military ties with India, particularly through the Quad, were presented as central to Washington's Indo-Pacific strategy to contain China.

"The pillar of US containment of China in the Pacific, we were told, was a strong US-India relationship," he added.

Drawing a parallel with Japan's post-World War II role as a bulwark against Chinese expansion, Abrahms said the current tariff policy towards India was "unfair, offensive, and destabilising."

Abrahms also noted Trump's unpredictability, suggesting the president could still reverse course. "Sometimes he very rapidly, even instantaneously, changes his rhetoric and overall positions towards a country," he said.

"It is possible that Trump will end up massively alleviating the threatened tariffs against India... especially if there is some progress in that big Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin."

Still, Abrahms warned that even a rollback of the 25% tariff on Indian purchases of Russian oil would not immediately repair the diplomatic damage. "

"I am at least hopeful that the US and India will right this course because I think that India is too important to the United States for there to be any kind of a permanent bump in the relationship.

"I will say, however, that even if some of the tariffs, a substantial amount of the tariffs like that 25% I mentioned, are lifted, I still think that the US-India relationship may not fully recover for quite some time under this administration," he said.

"Because the message to India is that the United States isn't reliable, and that is happening at the same time that the US is inviting the army chief of Pakistan for high-level meetings, including with the President in the United States," he added, pointing to Washington's invitations to Munir for high-level meetings and its willingness to discuss enhanced trade with Islamabad, despite the recent designation of a Pakistan-based group as a foreign terrorist organisation.

He cited Operation Sindoor as a turning point in the Trump administration's handling of South Asia.

"I think that a key turning point was Operation Sindoor, where the Trump administration, India-Pakistan conflict, as if those two countries are on equal footing, on equal terms with the United States. And that the conflict itself is that no one party is more culpable than the other, when the entire conflict was set off by Pakistan-backed terrorists killing large numbers of Hindu civilians. And then the Trump administration came in and claimed credit for reducing the conflict," Abrahms said.

"Pakistan was very, very happy with the Trump administration's interventions," Abrahms said. "They even talked publicly about recommending Trump for the Nobel Prize."
Two Union ministers -- Suresh Gopi and George Kurian -- visited the family of a 23-year-old woman in Kothamangalam on Wednesday, who allegedly took her own life, reportedly due to harassment by her lover, a day after the party described it as the "biggest example of forced religious conversion."

IMAGE: Union minister George Kurian (third from left) meets family members of 23-year-old suicide victim, Sona, in Kothamangalam, Kerala, August 13, 2025. Photograph: Courtesy George Kurian on X

They also met the family, who are demanding that an NIA probe be launched into the incident, as Sona Eldhose is said to have ended her life after her lover, Rameez, and his family allegedly made coercive attempts to convert her to Islam.

The visit by Gopi and Kurian, who have come under attack from the Congress and Communist Party of India-Marxist for their alleged long silence on the recent attack on nuns in Chhattisgarh by Bajrang Dal activists, also assumes political significance after the influential Syro-Malabar Church backed the family's demand for an NIA probe into the incident.

A Syro-Malabar Church official said it viewed the matter with "great seriousness".

Fr James Kokkavayalil, secretary of the public affairs commission of the Syro-Malabar Church, also alleged that there were suspected extremist links in the case, claiming the victim had been taken to Panayikkulam -- which has previously been in the news for extremist activities -- and tortured there.

After visiting the family, Kurian, the Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, said the investigation had not yet reached a stage "warranting an NIA probe".

He added that there was a set procedure for initiating a National Investigation Agency investigation. The FIR currently records the case as an "unnatural death" following harassment by her lover.

"If other legal provisions are added during the probe, the matter can be examined later," he said.

Gopi, who also met the family, reportedly offered all possible assistance.

In a petition to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday, the victim's mother, Bindu AK, sought an NIA probe, alleging her daughter had been the victim of coercive attempts to convert her to another religion.

She claimed that the accused, Rameez, had tried to force her daughter to convert, and suggested his actions could be linked to "extremist networks".

Sona Eldhose died by suicide at her residence on 9 August. A note left behind stated that she ended her life due to "continued harassment" from her lover and his relatives.

The BJP on Tuesday organised a march to the Kothamangalam police station under the leadership of party leader P C George, demanding justice for the woman's family and describing her as the latest victim of "love jihad" -- a term used by right-wing activists to allege the luring of non-Muslim women into relationships or marriages under the guise of love.

Another BJP leader, B Gopalakrishnan, called it "the biggest example of forced religious conversion" and urged Christian churches to speak out so that "Christian girls do not have to go through the same experience."

The case is currently under investigation by a Special Investigation Team, which is examining all angles, including abetment of suicide and rape, police sources said.
'For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news.'

IMAGE: US President Donald John Trump embraces Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their press conference at the White House, February 13, 2025. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the United States' relationship with both Pakistan and India "remains unchanged," adding that the "diplomats are committed to both nations."

Her remarks came after Pakistan army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's comments in Florida, where he reportedly said Pakistan could use nuclear weapons to take down India and 'half the world' in the event of an existential threat.

Speaking at the State Department briefing, Bruce stated, "We had an experience with Pakistan and India, when there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible. There was immediate concern and movement with Vice President J D Vance, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in addressing the nature of what was happening."

Bruce emphasised the success of diplomatic efforts in preventing the conflict from escalating, stating, "We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring."

"It's a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance and the top leaders in this nation were involved in stopping that potential catastrophe."

She also noted that the US relationship with "both nations remains unchanged -- good. The diplomats are committed to both nations."

Highlighting the US-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue, which was established in Islamabad on Tuesday, she affirmed, "The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad. The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats."

"For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future that's beneficial," she added.

Munir visited the US for the second time in less than two months. The trip comes after a private luncheon with Trump in June.

Munir arrived in Washington on Sunday for a series of high-level meetings with the US top political and military leadership.

The United States and Pakistan held the latest round of the US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, reaffirming their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Pakistan's Special Secretary for the United Nations Nabeel Munir and US Department of State Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory D LoGerfo, according to the joint statement on the US-Pakistan counterterrorism dialogue, released by the governments of the United States and Pakistan.

Both delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by the Balochistan Liberation Army, ISIS-Khorasan and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, the joint statement added.

The United States applauded Pakistan's continued successes in containing terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world.

Further, the United States expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar.

The joint statement read both delegations emphasised the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes.

Both sides reaffirmed their intention to work closely in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to promote effective and enduring approaches to counterterrorism, it added.

Reaffirming the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the United States, the joint statement stated both sides emphasised that sustained and structured engagement remains vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability.
US President Donald Trump warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of "very severe consequences" if Russia doesn't agree to stop the war with Ukraine after their meeting in Alaska on August 15.

IMAGE: US President Donald trump with his counterpart Vladimir Putin. Photograph: Reuters

"Yes. There will be consequences. I don't have to say (on the type of consequences). There will be very severe consequences," said Trump while answering a reporter's question at the Kennedy Centre on Wednesday.

Both leaders are scheduled to discuss a potential ceasefire in the Ukraine war on August 15 at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska's Anchorage.

The summit, scheduled for Friday, marks the first in-person meeting between the leaders of the US and Russia in over four years.

If the first meeting goes well, a second meeting might be held soon, potentially involving Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.

"If the first meeting goes okay, we will have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately. We will have a quick second meeting between President Putin, President Zelenskyy, and me if they would like to have me there...," said Trump.

Trump also mentioned the possibility of a trilateral meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"...It was always going to be, I was going to meet with President Putin and then after that I am going to call the leaders and President Zelenskyy. I am going to call President Zelenskyy, then I will call, probably in that order, the leaders.

There is a very good chance that we are going to have a second meeting which will be more productive than the first because the first is where I am going to find out where we are what we are doing," added the US President.

However, the US president added that this second meeting will not take place if he does not hear the answers he wants.

"There may be no second meeting because if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have then we are not going to have a second meeting," said Trump.

A 30-day pause on attacks on energy infrastructure has been proposed, with both sides agreeing to begin talks on the terms for a ceasefire in the Black Sea.

Trump further emphasised that the conflict is "Biden's work" and claimed he would have prevented it if he had been the US President.

"This is Biden's work, this is not my work. He got us into this thing. This war would have never happened if I were the President. But it is what it is. I am here to fix it...If we can save a lot of lives, it will be a great thing," said Trump.

He also claimed to have stopped five wars in the last six months and eliminated Iran's nuclear capability.

" I have stopped five wars in the last six months. On top of that, we wiped out the nuclear capability of Iran, obliterated it...," said Trump.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy remains sceptical about Putin's intentions, warning that Russia continues to prolong the war. He emphasised the need for specific details from Trump regarding the ceasefire proposal.

The Kremlin has outlined several conditions for a ceasefire, including a complete cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday claimed that any attempt to stop the flow of water into Pakistan is in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, and would be met with a "decisive response".

IMAGE: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Photograph: @CMShehbaz/X

Addressing an event in Islamabad, he said: "Enemy (India) can't snatch even a single drop of water from Pakistan."

"You threatened to stop our water. If you attempt such a move, Pakistan will teach you a lesson you will never forget," he said.

Shehbaz emphasised that water was a lifeline for Pakistan, and no compromise would be made on the country's rights under international agreements, as per Geo News.

Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April, which killed 26 people, India has, in exercise of its rights as a sovereign nation under international law, placed the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.

The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960, following nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan, with the assistance of the World Bank, which is also a signatory.

Former World Bank President Eugene Black initiated the talks.

Recognised as one of the most successful international treaties, it has endured frequent tensions, including conflict, and has provided a framework for irrigation and hydropower development for over half a century.

Former US President Dwight Eisenhower described it as "one bright spot in a very depressing world picture that we see so often."

The Treaty allocates the Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India.

At the same time, the Treaty allows each country certain uses of the rivers allocated to the other. The treaty gives India 20 per cent of the water from the Indus River System and the rest 80 per cent to Pakistan.

The IWT was in the spotlight in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack in 2019.

The Treaty has been criticised for being too generous to Pakistan, even when it has continued to promote terror in India.
Paxos, the company that issues PayPals $1 billion stablecoin, has applied for a national trust bank charter in the US, becoming the latest crypto company to pursue becoming a Federally-regulated bank in the US.

Its a move that could give Paxos a gloss of establishment respectability, and a direct presence in Americas financial sector. If approved, Paxos will be able to operate across the US without navigating the patchwork of local banking licences.

However, while an approval would allow Paxos to hold customer assets and settle transactions, it wont act as a traditional lender that can accept deposits and issue loans.

Paxos charter application comes at a time when Washington, under the Trump administration, has warmed up to crypto.

In July, President Donald Trump signed the Genius Act into law, effectively legalising stablecoins in the US.

Circle and Ripple

Paxos is the latest crypto company to pursue banking charter status. Circle and Ripple both applied earlier this summer. Chris Colson, payments guru at the Atlanta Federal Reserve, told DL News that an approval would enhance trust in their respective stablecoins.

It potentially paves the way for broader institutional and cross-border adoption, he said.

Yet, those US banking charter ambitions rely on the hope that the regulatory thaw has extended to the US Treasury Departments Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the agency that licenses and supervises all national banks.

An OCC charter has been a tough nut to crack for crypto companies. Only one firm, Anchorage Digital, has been able to scale the process.

Paxos itself tried to obtain a national bank charter in 2020 but its application stalled and expired in 2023.

Earlier in August, the stablecoin issuer settled with the New York Department of Financial Services for $26.5 million over its alleged failure to conduct due diligence on Binance.

Paxos was the issuer behind Binances BUSD stablecoin, which once peaked at $23 billion in market value.

Crypto market movers

Bitcoin is down 1.4% over the past 24 hours and is trading at $118,433.

Ethereum is up 2.6% in the same period to $4,295.

What were reading

Osato Avan-Nomayo is our Nigeria-based DeFi correspondent. He covers DeFi and tech. Got a tip? Please contact him at osato@dlnews.com.  DL News
Editor's note: Today we begin a series of articles analyzing the housing crisis here in Windham County and all over Vermont. The series will be published over the next three days in the print editions of the Reformer and online at reformer.com. Also, read our editorial on the topic.

In 2019, Skye Morse of M&S Development began converting an old grocery warehouse in downtown Brattleboro into 15 apartments and a co-work space.

After four years of planning, construction, and collaboration, the DeWitt Block on Flat Street was opened in 2023 and has been full ever since.

Our View: Progress has been made to alleviate the housing crisis  but there's still a ways to go We've been hearing the complaint for years  Vermont is not a business friendly state, in part because the high cost of regulatory burdens can

Late last year, M&S announced its next project, hoping to convert buildings on Birge Street into interim housing for international refugees. But that plan is on hold after they were told a $1 million grant to start the process is in limbo and the country's refugee admission program suspended by the current administration.

"It just feels like an uphill battle," said Morse, and it's not just the uncertainty coming out of Washington, D.C. He said housing developers in Vermont also face "an onslaught" of regulations in Vermont that, while intended to protect Vermont's character and provide housing for all income levels, drives up costs and drives private developers out of Southern Vermont.

"We have a lot of regulations that make our buildings more expensive and we have a lack of labor," he said.

In Vermont and around the country, the cost of construction per square foot can range between $150 and $400, with costs approaching $675 a square foot in buildings over five stories. Construction costs for subsidized housing with all its financing requirements can cost up to $600 a square foot.

That shakes out to between $65,000 and $280,000 in construction costs per unit in the United States.

A STANDALONE

Joshua Reap, of the Associated Builders and Contractors of New Hampshire and Vermont, said it does cost more to build in the Green Mountain State both because of the regulatory burden and the geography of the state.

"Act 250 is a standalone," he said. "No other state has anything as burdensome as that. In Vermont, it's a compounding effect of Act 250, energy standards, and codes more burdensome than in New Hampshire, slightly higher labor rates, and a sales tax on the products they are building with."

Reap said those factors can add up to 10 percent to the costs of building.

"It's expensive to build in Vermont, which is why you see more activity from nonprofits taking advantage of grants, tax credits and tax exemptions," he said.

But those grants, tax credits and exemptions come with conditions, said Morse.

"Every single thing everybody does has to solve every single problem we have, instead of just letting us focus on one set of issues," he said. "It just causes everything to slow down or to stop. The Dewitt Building is perfect example of being forced to solve all the problems."

Morse said he considers the Dewitt project a success in providing housing to 15 families. He also said they are adding office space to meet an increased demand.

"However, we face the same challenges that Windham Windsor Housing Trust and the Brattleboro Housing Partnership are facing. We are forced by our funders to house people with unmanaged substance use and mental health challenges. We are expected to be their case managers and we are not equipped to do that."

Morse is working with legislators and a group of landlords on new legislation to address safety in multi-family housing buildings, but currently landlords have their hands tied when it comes to enforcing no trespassing orders on non-tenants, even if they are breaking the law.

"We cannot trespass anybody from our property without getting every single resident's signature on the petition," he said. "A non-resident can come into our building at will. We had hoped that this housing would be a step toward recovery and stability for individuals exiting homelessness and for other vulnerable people. We are finding they are preyed upon by drug dealers and others because we can't keep them out."

And while the cost of construction is one obstacle that can be overcome with a creative financing pyramid  which includes Section 8 block grants and tax credits, historical tax credits, and grants from the Northern Border Regional Commission  developers and property managers are not equipped to deal with the results of the requirements for the funding.

"We have fewer tools to protect people when there's federal funding," said Morse. "My organization can't afford to do another project like Dewitt simply because once occupied, the building becomes unmanageable. Even if we could make the numbers work, it would be very difficult for us to move forward with another project without significant changes to how vulnerable individuals and individuals with high need are supported and without significant changes to state laws around our ability to prohibit people in our buildings."

And while the Birge Street project is on hold for now, M&S is working on another project, developing the Leonard Block on Main Street with 10 new housing units.

"Our focus is on workforce housing," said Morse. "We are exploring a new model that doesn't come with all the restrictions we are facing at Dewitt."

WORKFORCE HOUSING IN N.H.

In nearby Swanzey, N.H., Jack Franks, of Avanru Development Group Ltd., recently finished the Swanzey West Apartments, an 84-unit, workforce housing development on Route 10 and is getting ready to break ground on a 74-unit senior housing development on Route 32 near the Dillant-Hopkins Airport. Franks said Avanru is developing another 650 units around the Granite State.

"The regulatory road in Vermont is much more difficult than in New Hampshire in general," said Franks. "And my experience in Vermont has been that towns, municipalities and the state have been anti-growth. It's very difficult to invest in a town when you have to jump through extra hoops."

Franks said Avanru stabilizes its costs and labor force by doing much of the work offsite and transporting the pieces for assembly.

"Seventy percent of the work is completed prior to being shipped," he said. "It's all plug and play. A lot of engineering work goes into this process."

Also in Swanzey, the John Flatley Company out of Nashua is building four 52-unit buildings and a clubhouse on Route 32 in an area originally set aside for industrial development. The $78 million project is privately funded.

The 208 apartments, ranging from studios to three bedrooms, are being pitched as "market rate" housing. In Swanzey and Keene, studios and apartments are being rented at between $1,600 and $2,400 a month.

Flatley said two factors came into play when he decided to invest private money in a housing development in Swanzey: a large underutilized area originally designated for industrial use and municipal water and sewer.

"The town seemed to be receptive," he said, adding "I'm still taking a risk."

Flatley said it can take six to eight years from proposal to full occupancy for a private developer to see a return on their investment in a multifamily housing project, but he's also created a model that he is repeating in those projects to keep costs predictable.

"We've built maybe 35 of these buildings so far," he said. "We've worked out all the kinks and there aren't many unknowns at this point."

Flatley, who is hoping to hit a trend of people moving back to rural America, also believes housing can be a "chicken and egg" situation.

"What comes first?" he asked. "Do people move to where they have employment, or do employers come to a place with a population base? I would think the quality of life is better in the rural areas and more businesses would move to those areas if there was decent housing."

BACK IN VERMONT

While Flatley said he hasn't looked at Vermont because he's busy with developments in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, Paul Carroccio, is proposing 43 new residential privately financed units in Manchester Village along Richville Road.

For him, proposing new housing in Manchester is his way of giving back to the communities that have supported him and his family since they moved here when he was 8 years old.

"My dad was on the Winhall Select Board for 20 years," he said. "I learned from him how to contribute and be positive, but also understand the different walks of like that make this community work."

Carroccio, with a civil engineering degree, got married, started building around the ski resorts, and started TPW, a real estate brokerage with his wife, Kristie, raising a family along the way.

He said it's easier to build in New Hampshire because it has a more vital economy and more people, and because it doesn't have Act 250.

"It's also heavily commercialized, which Vermont doesn't want," he said. "But what do our communities need? It appears to be housing."

Carroccio said he sees and applauds the work that nonprofits are doing to meet the need, but it's just not enough.

"It can be done, if you dig into the numbers," he said. "Private developers just don't like the challenge of dealing with the process in Vermont."

DIVERSE HOUSING

In Brattleboro, The Village at Winston Prouty is set to start this year, with the goal of bringing as many as 300 units of what's being pitched as "diverse housing" to the Winston Prouty Center for Child and Family Development campus off of Maple Street.

The first phase of development includes the demolition of the Wheeler House and the construction of 28 units at an estimated cost of $9.7 million.

Each unit is projected to cost about $342,000, said Chloe Learey, executive director of the Prouty Center, though they are still comparing costs between modular or stick-built construction, with the hope to get shovels in the ground this year.

Her estimate currently includes the hard costs of construction and site work, and the soft costs of architects, consultants and development fees. Not included is Prouty Center staff time spent on the project, which is currently being considered an "in-kind contribution."

The Prouty Center project received local approval and doesn't require an Act 250 permit, and they have applied for a stormwater permit.

Learey said money is "the last piece of the puzzle." Fundraising has been underway and contributions, including from the town, have been made along the way. She said development in Vermont is expensive and requires subsidies, such as low-interest loans or tax abatements.

"I think we actually needed to make a project inevitable," Learey said. "So we really all understand that this is a crisis. Help us figure out how to pay for it."
NEWFANE AND GRAFTON  Gov. Phil Scott and his cabinet on Tuesday stopped at Vermont EMS Academy, praising its innovative practices.

Rescue Inc. staff led a tour through its academy on Route 30 in Newfane. Kris Johnson, director of IT innovation at Rescue, showed how simulators work to train EMS personnel.

A new mobile classroom, which can reach other parts of the state and has expanded VEMSA's reach, also was toured. Scott called the academy "great."

Ted Fisher, communications director for the Vermont Agency of Human Services, said AHS is "very interested" in the facility and mobile education, and Rescue's partnership with Brattleboro Memorial Hospital for the Mobile Integrated Health Care program. He noted the three models are being discussed as health care reform is explored in Vermont.

Costs are reduced and patient health outcomes are improving through the BMH partnership, Fisher said. As a firefighter up north, he expressed a personal interest in the mobile classroom making its way around Vermont.

Mobile classroom expands Vermont EMS Academy's reach A new mobile classroom at Vermont EMS Academy is providing life-like learning onsite and around the state.

At a meeting about public safety with cabinet officials at the academy, Brattleboro Police Chief Norma Hardy spoke of the need for long-term treatment and care locally for opioid use disorder. Staying clean be difficult, she said, especially in Brattleboro where someone can go to any corner and get drugs.

With the window for federal funding to cover opioid treatment closing, Brattleboro Select Board Chairwoman Elizabeth McLoughlin said people need to be pushed into programs before the money is gone. Hardy also mentioned the need for housing and work opportunities, and to change the perception of Vermont as a place to receive "handouts."

Windham County Sheriff Mark Anderson said his office received a Lead Hazard Capacity Building grant from the federal government. The funds will be used for training contractors to remove lead from residences.

Anderson said he hopes to expand on the effort and research lead poisoning and the effects of other hazardous materials in inmates and other populations.

Scott encouraged local officials to reach out to their legislators. He noted several local lawmakers have leadership positions in the Legislature.

In an interview, Scott said a public safety enhancement effort started a few years ago. Surveys and meetings led to new collaborations in Brattleboro, Bennington, Springfield and St. Johnsbury.

"We're just using that approach in different areas, not trying to force it on anyone, but to use the template, to utilize all the opportunities they have, to come together as a community, to interact with one another, to develop those hot spots, to determine where those hot spots are and then do something about it," Scott said.

Touring a county with his entire cabinet approximately every five weeks has been "pretty successful," Scott said. The COVID-19 pandemic and flooding "curtailed some of that but we're trying to resurrect it," he said.

"It's just an opportunity for us to hear from people about what they're feeling, what they're experiencing," he said, describing the initiative as "highly effective."

About and hour later, in Grafton, Scott got a polite earful from a small group of Grafton residents who are very unhappy with the Republican governor for not saying "no" to the Trump administration over the disclosure of food stamp recipients' confidential information.

About a half dozen residents, some carrying homemade signs, showed up at the Grafton Village Cheese Co. to let Scott know they didn't like his decision to give the Trump administration the information about food stamp beneficiaries in the state.

"Be Brave, Resist," said one sign. "Gov. Scott betrayed Vermont," another said.

Grafton resident Peggy Samuels said if Scott capitulates on the issue of SNAP beneficiaries, he will likely disclose more private information down the road.

Samuels said it is important that people work together, to provide a unified front, to push against the Trump administration's demands and "bullying."

One woman, who said she is involved with a farmer's market, said SNAP customers told her they are upset that their confidential information was handed over, "their data shared."

The protesters said they were disappointed that Scott didn't keep challenging the Trump administration, but Scott said it is a matter of picking your fights. It will be a long 3 1/2 years, he said, if he says no to everything the Trump administration asks for.

"I call balls and strikes," he said.

"I'm sorry you feel the way you do," he told Grafton resident Peter Richardson.

The protesters said they personally weren't affected by the decision, which sent detailed information on 65,000 Vermonters who have received food benefits in the past five years.

If the state hadn't complied, Scott said, those benefits could be in jeopardy.

He pointed to his decision earlier this summer to deny a request from the Pentagon to send 12 Vermont National Guard soldiers to help immigration police based at St. Albans doing paperwork. Scott said last month he didn't feel the National Guard members were "necessary" and thus rejected the request.

The protesters had waited outside the cheese company for about 30 minutes before Scott emerged from a closed-door session with company officials.

Grafton Village Cheese was sold earlier this year to the Vermont Farmstead Cheese of Windsor. Its future was far from certain because its owner, the Windham Foundation, was on the verge of removing financial support.

Contact Susan Smallheer at ssmallheer@reformer.com.
Robert Beck of Peterborough, N.H. is a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. After serving for 30 years in U.S embassies in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, he now teaches foreign policy classes at both Keene State College and Rivier University. The opinions expressed by columnists and op-ed writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
Permasteelisa Gartner Middle East, a unit of facade specialist Permasteelisa Group, has signed an agreement for a joint venture (JV) with ALBADDAD Capital, which has dual headquarters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia.

The initial plans of the collaboration will focus on establishing a specialist curtain wall production facility and working on facade projects in the Middle East region.

The collaboration will leverage the Italian company Permasteelisa's expertise in facade design and ALBADDAD's manufacturing capabilities to enhance construction resources in the region.

The JV's production facility, located in Jebel Ali, Dubai, will feature an area of 44,749m, with a 20,000m indoor built-up area dedicated to fabricating curtain wall systems.

Permasteelisa Group chief operating officer Lee Marks said: This partnership will have a notable impact on the way we deliver facade projects in the region, bringing together the long-established strengths of both our companies.

We bring unparalleled expertise in the delivery of complex, high-performance facade engineering and design, which, coupled with ALBADDAD Capitals significant localised manufacturing capacity, regional market knowledge, and fast-track delivery capabilities, creates a powerful player in the market.

ALBADDAD Capital CEO Ihab Mouallem said: This is an exciting development for the region, bringing together two of the best specialists in their respective fields to provide customers with something truly special and something we believe to be different from anything else the market has to offer.

The partnership seeks to combine the very best of our two companies, bringing decades of experience for the benefit of our JV customers in the future.

Permasteelisa Group has been active in the Middle East since 2002, completing over 50 projects, including buildings in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. ALBADDAD Capital, meanwhile, was founded in 1971.

This collaboration reflects ALBADDAD Capitals commitment to fast-track project execution and expand into the industrial sector for glass and aluminium facade systems. It marks Permasteelisa Groups first JV in the UAE, with future expansion plans into Saudi Arabia.

Operating under the unified brand 'ALBADDAD PERMASTEELISA', the partnership aims to strengthen both companies in technology and architectural engineering.

"Permasteelisa and ALBADDAD announce collaboration in Middle East" was originally created and published by World Construction Network, a GlobalData owned brand.
Rachna Gandhi, global chief digital and data officer at Ramsay Health Care, recently sat with CIO editorial director in Australia and New Zealand Cathy OSullivan to discuss technology and human synergies through AI-enhanced people-centered care, and creating a single source of truth for the organisations data.

With hundreds of hospitals, primary care clinics, and mental health services across eight countries, and over 90,000 employees, Ramsay Health Care provides a broad range of healthcare services to millions of patients. Integral to that success is its commitment to utilizing the best technologies to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and safety. Lives are on the line, after all.

Spearheading the IT initiatives and planning is global chief digital and data officer Rachna Gandhi, whose team won Team of the Year for customer value at last years CIO 50 awards. That recognition illustrates her understanding that nothing is done in isolation, and aligning with the right business partners is integral to success.

Its not just about the digital or technology team looking for a partner, she says. Were looking at patient-facing or employee-facing solutions. Itll be the digital team procurement and the business owner looking to find, identify, and progress partners together. If vendors are good, theyll deliver what they said they would in a timely way. But partnership is really about having a vested interest in a common outcome.

Having things in a safe pair of hands is one thing, but making sure that care remains for years to come is in the hands of those not yet in the IT workforce  and those who will look for roles that dont exist yet. On the other hand, says Gandhi, a lot of important roles a couple of years ago arent critical anymore.

So having that kind of lens into the future takes a good sense of balance, and a strong sense of belief in the fundamental vision of ambitious and cohesive teams. To Gandhi, having a diverse team is also essential. Its not only good business and good thought leadership, but its a better way to solve problems and be more reflective of patients served, as well as the entire workforce.

Its got to be action, not just a plan, she says. You have to have diversity embedded in all forms and make sure the people you reach out to, the people you put in front to be role models, are the kind of people youre shortlisting. For me, the mantra has always been just be the change. Dont expect everyone else to do it before you follow what you intrinsically believe. Its about what your values are and what you wont let happen.

That said, to get on Gandhis team, you still need to pull your weight, since her ambition when recruiting is to bring in business savvy and consumer centric leaders with deep subject matter expertise in how to use technology to solve problems.
When US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin sit down in Alaska on August 15 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, they will meet in a place that is at once a point of cooperation, rivalry, and deep symbolism.

In announcing the summit's location, Trump said his talks with Putin would focus on resolving the 45-month-old conflict -- the largest in Europe since the end of World War II -- through a compromise between Ukraine and Russia on territory.

"We're going to get some [land] back, and we're going to get some switched," Trump told reporters at the White House on August 8. "There'll be some swapping of territories to the betterment of both," he added.

Halfway Between Moscow Or Washington

To Bill Courtney, a former US diplomat who participated in Cold War arms talks, geography is the main appeal for choosing Alaska. The state is roughly equidistant between Washington and Moscow, a logistical convenience once sought -- but rarely found -- in US-Soviet summits, he said.

"Alaska actually offers you an opportunity to have something that looks like it's about halfway between Moscow or Washington," Courtney told RFE/RL. "Putin and Trump are making trips that are roughly comparable."

For Putin, the summit's location signals a subtle but significant win, according to Matthew Schmidt, a professor of homeland security and international affairs at the University of New Haven. The Russian media, Schmidt said, has praised the choice of holding the summit in a place that was once Russian territory until it was sold to the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million.

Alaska symbolizes the ease with which powers can trade territory, ignoring those who live there, Schmidt said.

Easier To Police

Security is another important draw, according to Troy Bouffard, professor of Arctic security at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Alaska ranks 48 out of the 50 US states in population size with about 730,000 residents. That means fewer security headaches than most places in the continental United States.

Anchorage, the state's largest city with 250,000 residents and a possible location for the summit, has top-notch logistics, he said. It is also buttressed by Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, which hosts thousands of active US air force and army personnel.

"It's not difficult at all to lock down routes and streets and buildings in Anchorage," Bouffard said.

Putin is deeply unpopular in the United States with a Pew Research Poll published in June showing that 84 percent of Americans have little to no confidence in the Kremlin leader to do the right thing in world affairs.

But holding the summit in a third country is complicated by the International Criminal Court's (ICC) indictment of Putin on war crimes. ICC members states -- of which there are 125 -- are required to arrest Putin should he set foot on their territory. The United States is not a signatory to the ICC.

The optics of Putin in the United States "are going to be bad, but they would be really, really bad if they tried to do this in [Washington] D.C.," Bouffard said.

Tens of millions of Americans live within several hours drive of the US capital, enabling those opposed to Putin and his war in Ukraine to easily organize large-scale demonstrations in Washington against such a visit.

To get to Alaska from the closest continental states, US citizens have to traverse thousands of miles through Canada. Domestic flights to Alaska are among the most expensive in the United States. With just a week's notice, finding available plane tickets will be difficult.

Bouffard said there is talk of protesters nonetheless gathering along roads in Anchorage with Ukrainian flags or posters with the colors of the Ukrainian flag. Courtney said he expects Putin to be "wrapped in a cocoon" to avoid any sight of protests.

From Cooperation To Confrontation

Alaska has always held a significant place in the relationship between the US and Russia. During World War II, Alaska was a vital link in the Lend-Lease program. Soviet pilots picked up US-made aircraft in Alaska and flew them across the Bering Strait to Russia. Nearly 8,000 planes took the route from Nome, a port city in western Alaska,to the Russian front.

That cooperation gave way to confrontation after 1945. During the Cold War, Alaska was militarized as a bulwark against Moscow, with bases hosting interceptors and radar sites to guard the polar approaches. Today, it remains home to America's largest fleet of advanced fighter jets and is a cornerstone of its missile defense network.

The old tensions are returning as great power competition in the resource-rich Arctic region heats up, driven by receding ice and the opening of transportation routes. In 2021, a senior Alaskan commander said US intercepts of Russian aircraft near or inside the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone had reached a post-Soviet high.

Russian bombers and reconnaissance planes still probe the boundary regularly, the most recent such incursion taking place on July 22, the fifth this year. Some US officials are now pushing to reestablish Cold War military facilities on Alaska's Aleutian Islands chain to counter a growing Russian and Chinese military presence.

In his potential effort to win over Trump, Putin may focus on Alaska as a location binding Russia and the United States together. Yury Ushakov, a senior Kremlin foreign policy adviser, called Alaska a "symbolic location" that reflects the two countries' shared Arctic frontier.

"Russia and the United States are close neighbors, bordering each other," Ushakov said in a video statement. Regardless of whether or not the summit yields real progress on peace, for Alaska, it will be a rare moment in the global spotlight.
US President Donald Trump's upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin has so far been met with skepticism and anxiety in Ukraine and across Europe, but there's one place where it's being welcomed: China.

China's Foreign Ministry said on August 12 that it is "glad to see Russia and the US keep in contact, improve their relations, and advance the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis." Those comments came after praise last week from Chinese leader Xi Jinping during a phone call with Putin where he encouraged both sides to advance a political resolution for the war in Ukraine at the upcoming meeting.

For Xi, the Trump-Putin summit comes as Beijing and Washington are working to improve their own relationship, extending a 90-day negotiating window late on August 11 to reach a trade deal and reportedly preparingfor a high-profile summit between Xi and Trump in October that could potentially set the stage for an even broader agreement between China and the United States.

Craig Singleton, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based think tank, says the summit in Alaska is being closely watched by Xi because it will allow him to "study the precedent for how it might translate to Asia before engaging" with Trump, potentially at their own summit where issues like trade relations and Taiwan, the self-governing island that China claims as its own, are likely to be discussed.

"Beijing reads Alaska as validation of Trump's great-power bargaining instinct: Russia, China, and the US treated as coequal poles, with spheres-of-influence logic back in play," said Singleton.

China has emerged as Russia's strongest partner since Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, boosting its economy with oil purchases, supplying its war-machine with dual-use products, and providing diplomatic backing on the world stage. And as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in July, Beijing can't accept Russia's defeat in Ukraine.

A summit between the US and Russian presidents with Ukrainian and European leaders absent after is validation in Beijing that its strategy and patience could pay off, Singleton says.

"Alaska isn't about maps; it's about precedents," he said. "If aggression pays in Europe, deterrence discounts in Asia."

Will Trump Meet With Xi After His Summit With Putin?

There are still plenty of variables and unknowns as Trump and Putin prepare to sit down together on August 15 that could set discouraging precedents for Xi.

In recent days, Trump has tried to play down expectations for the summit, referring to it as a "feel-out meeting" and that he's not expecting to emerge from the meeting with a concrete agreement.

The US president is also in close contact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders ahead of the meeting and said he will speak with them again "right after the meeting."

But with a summit emerging on the horizon, both Beijing and Washington could be looking to send each other goodwill gestures.

"My hazy crystal ball suggests that Trump will announce a new great partnership' aimed at shifting the tone and character of the US-China relationship in a more positive direction," Graham Allison, a professor and China scholar at Harvard, wrote in an August 11 post on X.

No official date has been set for a meeting between Trump and Xi, but multiple media reports citing anonymous senior US and Chinese officials say several possibilities are being discussed while Trump is set to travel to Asia in October.

Both Trump and Xi are set to attend a summit for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Kuala Lumpur from October 26-28 and could be looking to hold their own meeting while in Malaysia.

Another possibility mentioned by officials is the two leaders meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in South Korea from October 31-November 1.

Trump and Xi could also look to potentially hold their own meeting in China during the few days in between the two summits while the US president is already in Asia.

What Comes Next?

In the meantime, all eyes will be on Trump and Putin in Alaska.

Kyiv and its supporters are worried Putin could use the meeting to push Trump toward supporting a deal that's advantageous to Russia.

Trump has also been vague about exactly what a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia should entail, but he again mentioned the possibility of a deal involving "land swapping" on August 11 while also stating he would "try to get some of that territory back for Ukraine."

Beijing has already secured a few encouraging signals from the White House.

China has already used its dominant position in the flow of rare earths, an essential group of elements that are needed to manufacture everything from electric vehicle batteries to vital defense technology, to get concessions on easing US export controls on Nvidia's H20 microchip.

The move overturned Trump's own decision in April, when he imposed an export ban on H20 chips going to China. The decision has divided experts, with some disputing the national security risks, saying they are not likely to give China a leg up in the AI race.

Others disagree, including 20 security experts and former US officials who signed an open letter condemning the decision.

"By supplying China with these chips, we are fueling the very infrastructure that will be used to modernize and expand the Chinese military," stated the letter, whose signatories included Trump's first-term deputy national-security adviser Matt Pottinger.

Several other moves in recent months have also been interpreted by China observers as conciliatory toward Beijing, including blocking the Taiwanese president's plans to transit through the United States on the way to a diplomatic tour of South America and canceling a meeting between US officials and Taiwan's defense minister in June.

"If Washington is perceived as 'selling out' Ukraine, Beijing will learn a simple lesson: Coercion pays and costs are containable," Singleton said.
The planned meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, last left Europe scrambling.

The European Union, and most other European nations, are seeking to prevent the United States from "falling into a trap" while backing Ukraine diplomatically in every possible way and preparing more sanctions on Russia. But with no new diplomatic initiatives, they are struggling to secure a seat at the table as the continents fate appears to be in other capitals' hands.

It's fair to say Brussels woke up from its August summer recess slumber with a bang last week. While few thought the US president would crack down on Russia with restrictive measures after failing to impose any meaningful sanctions to date, no one expected him to announce a full-blown, US-Russia meeting at the highest-level -- the first in over four years -- to take place on August 15 in Alaska.

Since the summit was announced, European officials have scrambled diplomatically. They met with US Vice President JD Vance in Britain over the weekend, the bloc's foreign ministers held a videoconference on August 11, and on August 13 several of the continents' leaders -- including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy -- will hold another call with Trump.

Several European officials whom RFE/RL has been in touch with under the condition of anonymity say the messages from Washington so far have been "chaotic" and apparently several factions within the US administration have different aims for the Alaska meeting.

The officials noted there are different interpretations of what Steve Witkoff, Trump's Moscow envoy, brought back from his meeting with Putin last week. While admitting they feel a bit more confident now after all the outreach, they still aren't quite sure what to expect from Alaska.

The EU's Red Lines

Despite this, the EU has made it clear it has several red lines. European officials want a cease-fire first before any discussions on potential Ukrainian concessions. With this should come security guarantees for Kyiv and a way to monitor the cease-fire.

Many see some sort of European role here, but does anyone else? On potential Ukrainian territory being seized by Russia, the Europeans say they will back Ukraine in whatever Kyiv ultimately decides, but they want a say in it. The EU will never de jure recognize Ukrainian territory as Russian -- as in the case of Crimea since 2014, for example.

When it comes to the withdrawal of Russian troops from certain occupied areas as a form of concession, there is also some skepticism that Moscow would actually respect that. One diplomat noted that Russian troops never withdrew from Moldova's Transnistria or from Georgia's occupied territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Despite all the diplomatic posturing by European countries, the fact is they've been sidelined. While they are insisting on being at the table on any issue of direct interest, there's no indication they'll be allowed to anytime soon. This stands in stark contrast with the run-up to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in the winter of 2021-2022 when Europe was fully engaged in futile attempts at negotiations with Moscow at NATO, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and bilaterally with the Kremlin.

Now, EU leaders are struggling to stay relevant. Yes, they're threatening more sanctions against Russia, and a 19th round being prepared. But while some of those measures have been a nuisance for Russia, they haven't swayed the Kremlin's political and military calculations in the past three years.

The over 200 billion euros' worth of Russian frozen assets in the bloc may be a useful bargaining chip, but only at a later point when talks can advance to Russian potentially making war reparations.

All the sanctions are up for renewal in January 2026, and unanimity is needed for an extension. Some EU diplomats have hinted that some measures might be dropped if Moscow delivers on certain aspects of a potential deal, but they contend that no real sequencing has been seriously discussed.

Looking For Reassurance

Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron and the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer touted a "reassurance force" of potentially 20,000 European troops to be stationed in western Ukraine. Some people say this plan is in the works, but they also admit there are still too many uncertainties surrounding it, such as the rules of engagement and whether the Americans would provide any assistance like intelligence and large-scale transports.

Meanwhile, many point out that NATO membership would be the ultimate security guarantee for Ukraine, but there is no consensus on this issue at the military alliance, just like when the topic was dissected at NATO summits in 2023 and 2024.

For the moment, Brussels is putting its stance out there with statements. Incidentally, Hungary chose not to add its signature, again highlighting cracks in European unity. Budapest, which enjoys warm relations with the Kremlin, wants an EU-Russia summit to follow the Trump-Putin meeting.

Hungary is already blocking Ukraine's EU aspirations and stronger measures against the Kremlin and may bloc future financial aid. While it currently stands alone in its direct defiance of Brussels on these topics, it might soon have company if Washington and Moscow start making real deals over European heads.
An Iranian lawmaker has warned European powers that reimposing UN sanctions against the Islamic republic could compel Iran to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Manouchehr Mottaki, a lawmaker from Tehran and a former foreign minister, said on August 13 the conservative-leaning parliament has its "finger on the trigger on leaving the NPT" if the Europeans "take a step toward" re-imposing UN sanctions.

Britain, France, and Germany -- collectively known as the E3 -- have threatened to initiate the process of reinstating UN sanctions if there is no diplomatic breakthrough between Iran and the United States by the end of August.

The so-called snapback of UN sanctions is a provision under the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). UN embargos on arms, banks, and nuclear equipment were lifted a decade ago under the agreement, but they can be reimposed before an October 15 deadline.

A European source told RFE/RL last month that the E3 have offered to extend the deadline once and only if there is meaningful progress in talks between Tehran and Washington.

The Financial Times reported on August 13 that the E3 have informed the UN they are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism unless Iran returns to the negotiating table.

"The moment they take their request to the UN Security Council, we need 24 hours to approve withdrawal from the JCPOA," Mottaki said.

Iran and the E3 held talks last month in Istanbul at the level of deputy foreign ministers to discuss Tehran's nuclear program. But no dates have been set for further talks and Tehran has given no indication that negotiations with Washington will resume.

However, Iran's president, Masud Pezeshkian, this week slammed critics of dialogue with the United States, saying there was no point in rebuilding nuclear sites damaged in US and Israeli strikes without pursuing diplomacy with Washington.

His comments upset hard-liners, who accused the president of projecting a "weak" image of Iran.

Iran and the United States were scheduled to hold a new round of talks on June 15, but the meeting was scrapped after Israel and the United States bombed Iranian nuclear facilities.

The two sides have yet to agree to meet, with Tehran saying it cannot trust Washington and the White House questioning whether there is any merit in further talks given the damage caused to Irans nuclear sites.
Just two days ahead of a summit with President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump has warned Russia of "very severe consequences" if it doesn't halt its war against Ukraine.

Trump gave no details on what consequences Moscow could face if it doesn't put an end to more than 3 1/2 years of war in Ukraine, but he spoke on August 13 shortly after being urged by several European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to protect fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests.

"The aim is to end the war," he said of what he hopes to achieve at the August 15 summit at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson just outside Anchorage, Alaska.

Before Trump spoke, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said a call with the US leader and top officials from around Europe was "very good," while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz characterized the video conference as "constructive."

Trump also called the video conference "very good" and said that if his meeting with Putin goes well, he would like to have a quick second meeting with both Putin and Zelenskyy.

He gave no time frame for such a meeting, and said Russia would face consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war.

"We hope that the central topic at the [Trump-Putin] meeting will be a cease-fire. An immediate cease-fire," Zelenskyy told a news conference in Berlin after the call, which he attended with Merz.

The talks between Trump and Putin are aimed at finding a path to end the conflict, the biggest in Europe since World War II. Trump has said both sides will have to swap land to end intense fighting that has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides and displaced millions of Ukrainians.

Appearing to be on the outside looking in ahead of the talks, European leaders and Zelenskyy have been scrambling to make sure their voices are heard.

Washington appears to be preparing Kyiv and Moscow for major compromises to end the war, with US Vice President JD Vance warning any peace deal will likely leave both sides "unhappy."

But French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was "very clear" in the August 13 call that he wants to achieve a cease-fire at the summit and that Trump had been clear that "territorial issues relating to Ukraine...will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president."

Trump will also "seek a future trilateral meeting" involving Zelenskyy, Macron said.

"There are currently no serious territorial exchange schemes on the table.... I think thats a very important point in this regard. And we hope that it can be held in Europe, in a neutral country that is acceptable to all parties," he added.

The European leaders issued a statement late on August 13 saying that they welcomed Trumps efforts to "stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russias war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace."

But they reiterated that "the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine."

If Trump's insistence on involving Ukraine is confirmed, it would help ease fears among Ukraine and its allies that leaders of the two superpowers could reach an accord that sells out Europe's and Ukraine's security interests and proposes to give Ukrainian territory to Moscow.

"Trump's thinking is apparently closer aligned with that of the Europeans than first feared by some," one European official told RFE/RL after the call.

Russia has consistently given the idea of a meeting with Zelenskyy the cold shoulder, suggesting it should only happen once the sides are close to signing a peace deal, not just a cease-fire agreement.

That moment seems far off given the huge gap between the Russian and Ukrainian positions that persists on several major issues, including territory and security, despite three rounds of direct talks in Turkey since mid-May.

The talks come at a pivotal moment, with Trump increasingly frustrated with Putin and the Russian president showing no signs of bending on the Kremlin's maximalist demands. Trump and Putin have held six phone calls, and the White House's lead envoy has traveled to Moscow at least three times.

The decision to meet Putin face-to-face -- something Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, refused to do following the invasion -- reflects Trump's belief that his relationship with the Russian leader will yield a durable peace agreement.

"The Prime Minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering -- international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal," a readout of the call from Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Downing Street office said.

The European leaders' statement issued by the European Council said Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees, adding that the "Coalition of the Willing is ready to play an active role."

RFE/RL Europe editor Rikard Jozwiak contributed to this report.
Four years after the Taliban retook power in Afghanistan, the United Nations says the ultra-conservative group "is closer than ever to achieving its vision of a society that completely erases women from public life."

Since returning to power on August 15, 2021, Taliban officials have imposed a series of draconian rules that strip Afghan women and girls of their rights and dignity, the gender equality agency UN Women said on August 11.

The Taliban-led government has banned girls from school beyond the sixth grade, while women are barred from most jobs and political life. They also must adhere to a strict Islamic dress code outside their homes.

A new report by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) backs up the warning issued by UN Women documenting numerous cases of women being detained by inspectors from the Ministry of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice -- the Taliban's morality police -- for allegedly breaching the dress code requirements.

"The edicts which the Taliban have passed restricting women and girls' rights interact together to create an inescapable cycle which relegates women to private spaces and increases their vulnerability," UN Women said.

The UN says more than 78 percent of Afghan women have lost access to education, employment, or training since the Taliban returned to power.

For example, in the western city of Herat, UNAMA said, dozens of women deemed not in compliance with the hijab rules were barred from entering markets or using public transport in May. Several women were detained until their relatives brought them clothes to cover themselves completely, according to the report.

The Taliban has banned women from traveling without a male guardian, a move that in some instances has deprived women from accessing health-care and other vital services.

According to UNAMA, the Taliban's morality police have instructed health clinics, government offices, shops, markets, and taxi drivers across the country to deny services for women not accompanied by a male relative, or a so-called mahram.

In the Upper Maiwand district of southern Kandahar Province, for example, Taliban inspectors reminded drivers, travel agents, and travelers at the local bus station that women and girls are not allowed to travel without a mahram.

The Kandahar morality police also demanded female health-care workers be accompanied to work by a male guardian carrying a "mahram identification card." Such cards are issued by the Taliban-led Department of Public Health and establish the relationship between the card holder and the female health worker.

Child marriage has also become more common, and "women are increasingly subjected to violence, inside and outside of their homes," the UN said.

UN Women predicts that impediments to receiving health care for women will increase maternal mortality rates in Afghanistan by 50 percent by 2026.

Many of the deaths were reportedly due to preventable pregnancy complications exacerbated by severe shortages in qualified birth attendants and an under-resourced health-care system.

The shortage of specialists is expected to be even more dire in coming years as the Taliban has banned women from studying at universities and has closed private schools that offered courses on midwifery, nursing, and laboratory assistance.

UN Women warned the results of the Taliban's oppressive policies on women in Afghanistan "are devastating."

"Women are living shorter, less healthy lives," the UN agency said.

The situation for women and girls in Afghanistan has become "increasingly untenable" under the Taliban, the agency said, and warned that "without urgent action, this untenable reality will become normalized and women and girls will be fully excluded" from public life.
This story was originally published on Banking Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Banking Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Amy Wierenga has been named PNCs next chief risk officer, effective Sept. 8, the bank said Tuesday.

Wierenga, who joined the lender in February 2024, is head of financial and model risk for PNCs independent risk management organization, leading the banks chief credit officer, chief market risk officer, chief model risk officer and credit risk review organizations, the bank said.

Wierenga will succeed Kieran Fallon, who has served as the Pittsburgh-based banks risk chief since February 2021. Fallon will return to PNCs legal department, as deputy general counsel and strategic regulatory adviser in charge of exam oversight. Hell report to PNCs general counsel, Laura Long.

Dive Insight:

Wierenga will join the lenders executive committee and report to CEO Bill Demchak.

Prior to joining $559 billion-asset PNC, she spent four years as chief risk officer at alternative asset manager GCM Grosvenor, where she led global risk strategy, oversight and quantitative modeling and research, the bank said.

Before that, she spent nearly a dozen years at BlueMountain Capital Management, as partner, chief risk officer and head of risk and portfolio construction, and served as a commissioned bank examiner and market risk specialist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago earlier in her career.

I am confident that Amys experience, leadership and strong relationships across and beyond PNC will lend significant value to our Risk organization, Executive Committee and PNC more broadly, Demchak said in the news release.

In his new role, Fallon will help the bank navigate an evolving regulatory landscape and work closely with Ursula Pfeil, the deputy general counsel who oversees regulatory affairs and regulatory policy at the bank, the release said. The independent risk management regulatory affairs team led by David Shernisky will continue to report to Fallon, PNC said.

Kieran stepped into the chief risk officer role during a critical time for both PNC and the banking industry, Demchak said. Over the past five years, he has strengthened our Independent Risk Management (IRM) organization, guided us through industry and economic shifts, and helped us support clients credit needs while maintaining the integrity of our risk profile.

Fallon has been at PNC since 2011, serving as chief counsel of regulatory affairs and senior deputy general counsel overseeing regulatory, government affairs and enterprise risk. Prior to joining the bank, he spent about 16 years as associate general counsel at the Federal Reserve, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Four years ago, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. That moment has drastically changed the lives of millions, especially women and girls. Since then, countless freedoms have been stripped away, with strict bans on education, work, and daily activities. This video contrasts the life that Afghan women once had, and still dream of, with the harsh reality under Taliban rule today.
A Pony.ai Inc. autonomous vehicle in Shanghai.

Pony AI Inc. is confident it will meet its 2025 robotaxi vehicle output target and is actively exploring new markets in Europe, even as the industrys commercialization develops at an uneven pace across different regions.

Over 200 of Pony AIs Gen-7 Robotaxi vehicles have been rolled out since mass production started two months ago, putting the firm on track to hit its 1,000 vehicle goal by year-end, the company said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

That will help it break even on a per-vehicle basis, Chief Executive Officer James Peng said in an interview on Wednesday. The company was founded in 2016 and started operating robotaxis in Guangzhou in 2018.

The Guangzhou-headquartered firms optimism comes as it eyes new markets in Europe. Road testing is being carried out in Luxembourg via mobility service provider Emile Weber, Peng said.

Pony AI is also trialing its technology in South Korea, where it has obtained nationwide permits for robotaxi operations. It has a tie-up with Dubais Roads and Transport Authority, and with Uber Technologies Inc. to deploy self-driving vehicles in the Middle East.

In a year or two, once the regulations are ready, the local users are on board, then I think those markets will take off dramatically, Peng said of foreign regions.

Earlier in August, Pony AIs rival  Baidu Inc.s Apollo Go  inked an agreement with US ride-hailing platform Lyft Inc. to deploy robotaxis in Europe, starting with Germany and the UK in 2026, pending regulatory approval.

Home Market

Chinese regulators attitude toward autonomous driving technology seems to be warming up, too, despite a public debate that erupted in 2024 over Apollo Gos robotaxi fleet in the central city of Wuhan. Taxi drivers protested the self-driving cars potentially taking their jobs, while residents complained about traffic disruptions.

Last month, Shanghai granted licenses to companies including Pony AI and Apollo Go, allowing commercial operations in financial district Pudong. It became the latest Chinese urban center  following Beijing, Shenzhen and Guangzhou  to permit fare-charging robotaxi operations.

This is a big step for making robotaxis a real business, Peng said.
Sean McCarthaigh

An investigation by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) into the death of a contract worker at a Cork factory over two years ago is still ongoing, an inquest has heard.

John Murphy (41), a married father from Condonstown, Watergrasshill, Co Cork, sustained third-degree burns across 75 per cent of his body after a suspected explosion at the US medical device manufacturer Strykers plant in Anngrove, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork on April 18th, 2023.

He died from his injuries almost two months later on June 9th, 2023, in the specialist burns unit in St Jamess Hospital in Dublin where he had been transferred after originally being treated at Cork University Hospital for 24 hours.

Another work colleague of the deceased was also injured in the workplace accident.

Mr Murphy was working for a facilities management company, Apleona, on the roof of the Stryker factory at the time of the fatal incident.

He was able to make it down off the roof but became unresponsive a short time later and never regained consciousness before his death.

An inspector with the HSA, Frank Kearns, told a brief sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court on Wednesday that the circumstances of Mr Murphys death were still under investigation.

Asked by the coroner, Clare Keane, if there was a particular reason why the matter was still with the HSA, Mr Kearns said he was just aware that it was still under investigation but confirmed a file on the case would be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The HSA inspector noted the death had taken place in 2023 but added that such cases do take a lot of time.

Mr Kearns said he would ensure that Mr Murphys family, who did not attend the latest proceedings, would be notified of the outcome of the hearing.

Dr Keane granted the application by the HSA for a six-month adjournment of the inquest under Section 25 (1) of the Coroners Act as criminal proceedings are being considered.

In a newspaper interview earlier this year, the deceaseds family outlined how they were heartbroken at not knowing when they will get closure from his death.

Mr Murphys parents and siblings said no family should have to wait so long for answers over the death of a loved one following a workplace tragedy.

We have no closure. That is all we want. We are two years waiting for answers. We dont want to still be waiting for them at Johns third or fourth anniversaries, said his mother, Eileen.

In March 2024, Mr Murphys family initiated High Court proceedings against Stryker Ireland Limited and Apleona Ireland Limited over his death.

A High Court judge also granted their application to have a legal representative attend an engineering inspection of the factory.

Meanwhile, trade union Siptu said grave health and safety concerns have been raised about Strykers operations in Cork following another fire at one of its facilities last week.

Siptu spokesperson, Neil McGowan, said the trade union was calling on the US companys chief executive, Kevin Lobo, to intervene at the highest level to ensure that a meeting between local management and worker representatives took place.

Concerns have been expressed about claims that an automatic alarm system failed to sound following a fire at Strykers Tullagreen plant in the IDA Business Park in Carrigtwohill on August 6.

No injuries were sustained during the incident and all staff were safely evacuated from the building.

This latest fire highlights a deeply troubling pattern over a number of years at the Stryker plants in Carrigtwohill, said Mr McGowan.

The company, which began operations in Ireland in 1998, now employs 4,100 staff across six locations in Cork.

Siptu said its members have been raising health and safety concerns with Styrker about its plants in Carrigtwohill since 2019.
The National Novena to Our Lady of Knock begins today. It will take place from August 13th to 21st at Knock Shrine, and approximately 150,000 people are expected to attend.

This years theme, "Pilgrims of Hope", invites all to embark on a journey of faith and reflection, rooted in the enduring message of hope.

Each day is designed to foster a sense of hope and unity, encouraging pilgrims to strengthen their spiritual journeys, while connecting with others in a supportive environment.

The Novena will feature daily ceremonies, with guest speakers, at 3 p.m.and 8 p.m. offering opportunities for spiritual nourishment and reflection.

Throughout the Novena, a series of insightful and thought-provoking workshops will be held daily at 12:45 p.m.. Novena workshops provide a unique and enriching experience for participants eager to explore the theme of the day more profoundly.

Ahead of this years National Novena, Fr. Richard Gibbons, PP and Rector of Knock Shrine said: We are pleased to welcome inspiring guest speakers each day, who will offer reflections and insights on the theme Pilgrims of Hope. Hope is at the heart of the Knock Apparition and throughout this years National Novena, we will explore how hope can shine through in the most unexpected places.

This years guest speakers include Fr. Kevin Kiernan, OFM Cap  Capuchin Director of the Capuchin Day Centre and guardian of the Capuchin Friary of St. Mary of the Angels, Church St. Dublin.

Miriam Wijlens is a Dutch theologian and professor of Canon Law at University of Erfurt, Germany, who served on the Coordinating Committee of the Synod on Synodality in Rome.

Bishop Kevin Doran is the Bishop of Elphin and Achonry, chairperson of the Council for Life of the Irish Catholic Bishops Conference.

Msgr Kevin Gillespie is diocesan administrator of the Diocese of Raphoe and Administrator of St. Eunans Cathedral, Letterkenny. He will be joined by Elaine Patton, who is actively involved in youth ministry in Raphoe Diocese.

Eileen Dunne is a former news anchor at RTE, who has served as international president of the Association of European Journalists.

Fr. Niall Leahy SJ is an advocate for localism at the Jesuit Centre for Faith and Justice. He is based in Gardiner Street Parish in Dublin.

Ita Lohan is Chaplain at Loughan House open centre and former Chaplain at Castlerea Prison.

Breda Casserly is a former healthcare chaplain at the Galway Hospice and author of Lessons from a bedside.

Julian Drapiewski is a chartered engineer and permanent deacon of the Archdiocese of Tuam.

Claire Kilroy is the seconded deputy principal working in Le Cheile Schools trust, who has recently been appointed CEO of the Association of Patrons and Trustees of Catholic Schools.

John Farrelly is the prayer guidance co-ordinator at Knock Shrine, where he leads Spiritual Direction Ministry.

Fr. Richard Gibbons is Parish Priest and Rector of Knock Shrine.

A family day will be held on Sunday, August 17th Family day features a variety of free activities that cater to all ages, beginning with a special blessing of families in the Apparition Chapel at 11 a.m. Children of all ages can participate in fun activities, games and workshops on the Basilica green.

The final evening of the Novena, August 21st marks the anniversary of the Knock Apparition. The evenings celebration will commence with the Witness Walk at 6.45 p.m.. This prayerful walk through the village of Knock will commemorate each of the apparition witnesses, who made their way from their homesteads to witness the extraordinary vision at the gable wall of the parish church in 1879.

This year's National Novena to Our Lady of Knock promises to be a spiritually enriching experience. For more information, including details on the daily schedule, guest speakers, guided prayer sessions and workshops, please visit the Knock Shrine website www.knockshrine.ie or follow Knock Shrine on social media.
Bigg Boss 18 Contestant Shilpa Shirodkar Meets with Accident, Latest News

She expressed disappointment that the company took no responsibility for the incident.

Bigg Boss 18 Contestant Shilpa Shirodkar Meets with Accident, Latest News

Shilpa Shirodkar Accident News: 90s famous actress and Bigg Boss 18 contestant Shilpa Shirodkar got into an accident when her car was hit by a city bus. After this incident, Shilpa expressed her displeasure on social media and accused the bus company of negligence. She said that the company refused to take responsibility and put all the blame on the driver.

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Shilpa Shirodkar shared pictures of her damaged car on her Instagram Stories. She wrote that her car was hit by a bus named Cityflo. She said that when she contacted the companys Mumbai office, Mr. Yogesh Kadam and Mr. Vilas Mankote told her that it was not the companys responsibility but that of the driver.

"A cityflo bus ran into my car today. And the people representing the office in Mumbai Mr Yogesh Kadam and Mr Vilas Mankote are telling me its not their company's responsibility, its the drivers responsibility. How ruthless are these guys. How much must be a driver earning! Thanks to @mumbaipolice @cpMumbaiPolice they helped me file a police complaint without much problem. But the company refuses to take any responsibility of the incident. @cityflo.id appreciate you to connect with me on this matter. Thankfully my staff is fine and unhurt but anything could have happened," she wrote in a post.

She expressed disappointment that the company took no responsibility for the incident. She said that it could have been a dangerous situation and thanked God that none of her staff was injured.

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(For more news apart from 'Dog lovers meet Delhi Mayor over SCs order on stray dogs, Phase Wise Implementation Agreed,' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda Movie Real Story

The film is claimed to be based on true stories, and not just one, but many stories.

Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda Movie Real Story: The much-awaited Punjabi film 'Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda' is all set to release worldwide, except India, on August 22. Featuring Jassie Gill, Ranjit Bawa, Mandy Takhar, and Imran Ashraf in pivotal roles, the film boasts a powerhouse ensemble.

The film includes a powerhouse star cast, and each actor brings their unique strengths. While Jassie Gill brings onboard his charm, Ranjit Bawa comes up with energetic timing. Likewise, Mandy Takhar showcases her elegance, and Ashraf delivers depth in his character.

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Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda Movie Real Story

The film is claimed to be based on true stories, and not just one, but many stories. There are two types of Punjabis abroad  those who are civilized families and holding PRs, while the other ones are those who don't know how to live, which makes the title of the film 'Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda'. This is exactly what the film shows. The film might not be based on one real incident, but it is inspired by too many real stories, stories of those who live outside their Punjab and the challenges that they face.

Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda Movie Plot:

The film follows the story of Kiran, a woman who enjoys peaceful Canadian neighbourhood life, until she meets a group of mischievous international students led by Jaggi. The mild irritation turns into a hilarious war of pranks, mixed with humor, emotion, and a neighbourly drama that audiences will instantly relate to.

(For more news apart from Enna Nu Rehna Sehna Ni Aaunda Movie Real Story, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
10 Devotees from Etah, UP, Including Children and Women, Dead in Duasa, Rajasthan

The devotees, residents of Uttar Pradesh's Etah, were traveling back from Salasar Balaji in two pickup vans.

10 Devotees from Etah, UP, Including Children and Women, Dead in Duasa, Rajasthan

A pickup van, early Wednesday, rammed a parked truck in Rajasthans Duasa, killing ten people, including seven children and three women, and leaving several others injured, multiple media outlets reported.

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The incident reportedly occurred in Bapi village, at around 4 am, when the pick-up carrying devotees was returning from Salasar Balaji.

According to a report by NDTV, the injured were rushed to Dausa Hospital, where ten succumbed of their injuries, while nine others have been shifted to Jaipur due to critical health conditions.

Sagar Rana, Superintendent of Police, Dausa, as quoted in the report, said that the accident took place on Manoharpur Highway, adding, The victims were said to be returning after offering prayers at Khatu Shyam. Some of the injured have been referred to SMS Hospital.

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According to the preliminary report, the devotees, residents of Uttar Pradesh's Etah, were traveling back from Salasar Balaji in two pickup vans. The van that was involved in the accident had dozens on board.

Further investigations into the accident are underway.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed condolences. In a social media post, CM wrote, The news of the loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured. May God grant a place at his divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured.

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Later in the afternoon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences to the bereaved families in a social media post. Prime Minister announced an ex gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the next of kin of each deceased.

Meanwhile, an ex-gratia amount of Rs. 50,000 has also been announced for those injured in the accident.

(For more news apart from '10 Devotees from Etah, UP, Including Children and Women, Dead in Duasa, Rajasthan,' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Dog lovers meet Delhi Mayor over SC's order on stray dogs, Phase Wise Implementation Agreed

Therefore, he said, in the first phase, all ferocious and ill dogs will be taken care of.

Dog lovers meet Delhi Mayor over SCs order on stray dogs Latest News

Dog and animal lovers on Wednesday met Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh to express concerns regarding the Supreme Courts order on stray dogs in the Delhi NCR region.

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Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh said he welcomes the top courts order and will implement the order 100%. However, he noted that the order will be implemented phase-wise, as per the demands of animal rights activists and dog lovers. Therefore, he said, in the first phase, all ferocious and ill dogs will be taken care of.

Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, speaking to ANI during the meeting, said, People from different parts of Delhi have come to meet me. They are concerned and want to understand how the order will be implemented, as they are pet lovers. I told them that just like any of them, we are equally pet lovers. We will keep the dogs in the same way we have kept our pets in our house.

Iqbal Singh noted that the pet lovers are also concerned about ferocious dogs and those that bite.

He continued, So, they demanded that they want us to implement the order phase-wise. And in the first phase, instead of removing all the dogs, only those dogs that have received complaints will be removed or ones that are furious and bite. They are also concerned about such dogs and wanted such dogs to be managed first, and that they should be sent to correction centres, shelter homes.

Iqbal Singh said he agreed to their demands and wants dog lovers to come and serve in correction centres. They are ready for it, he added.

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He further said that the animals lovers will inform the authorities about the dogs that are a safety concern to the public. Adding, Overall, the people of Delhi are ready to correct the stray dogs. In the first phase, we will remove only those dogs that are sick or furious, that are biting, and next we will pick the normal stray dogs..."

A dog/animal love,r after the meeting, speaking to the media said, "We were worried that after the Supreme Court order, a lot of dogs are already being picked up, and where are they being taken, what will be done with them. Because Delhi does not have the capacity to keep 7 lakh street dogs in one place in good humane conditions. MCD also knows this.

We have got such a good assurance from the Mayor that he also wants to implement the order in a better way, along with all the citizens. We want every living being, whether it is human or animal, to live and let live. In the first phase, those dogs will be picked up who are aggressive, bite or whose behaviour needs improvement..." she added.

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(For more news apart from 'Dog lovers meet Delhi Mayor over SCs order on stray dogs, Phase Wise Implementation Agreed,' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Restaurant operations software provider Rosnet has received a strategic investment from M33 Growth to enhance product innovation.

The partnership is set to propel Rosnet's expansion, fuelling innovation and a commitment to delivering software to restaurant operators.

The investment signifies a milestone in Rosnet's journey to strengthen its market position and enhance its comprehensive back-of-house management platform.

Rosnet CEO Maggie Peters stated: From the beginning, Rosnet has been driven by a vision to provide software and data solutions to restaurant operators to help them save time and improve profit margins while also providing top-tier client service. Through this investment, we will continue to execute on this vision.

Founded in the US, Rosnet provides real-time insights to multi-unit restaurant operators into food and labour operations. This is aimed at optimising decision-making, reducing costs and driving profitability.

It caters to a variety of dining establishments, including quick service and fine dining. Brands such as Applebee's and International House of Pancakes are among those that benefit from Rosnet's tools for budget management, inventory control, operational checklists and forecasting.

The investment by M33 Growth is poised to advance Rosnet's software platform, empowering restaurant operators with enhanced control over data operations.

By integrating real-time data, Rosnet aims to elevate profitability and operational efficiency for its clients.

M33 Growth co-founder and managing director Brian Shortsleeve stated: With years of firsthand experience operating restaurants, the team at Rosnet has built a robust platform that we believe can be a game-changer for addressing the complex data and operational needs of the industry.

We believe Rosnets success and customer-centric brand in the market is a testament to their purpose-built restaurant back-of-house platform and the strong relationships they have built with their operators.

"Rosnet gains M33 Growth investment to boost product innovation" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand.




Australia will on Thursday release July figures for unemployment, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity.

The jobless rate is expected to fall to 4.2 percent from 4.3 percent in June, with the addition of 35,300 jobs following the increase of 2,000 jobs a month earlier. The participation rate is seen steady at 67.1 percent.

South Korea will see July numbers for import and export prices; in June, they were down an annual 6.2 percent and 4.5 percent, respectively.

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What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
CapitaLand Investment Ltd. (CLILF,9CI.SI), a Singapore-based real estate investment manager, announced on Wednesday that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Maharashtra government to invest more than INR 19,200 crore or 2.83 billion Singapore dollars by 2030 to expand its presence in Mumbai and Pune.

The company began its operation in Maharashtra 2013, since then, it has invested over INR 6,800 crore or 1 billion Singapore dollars in Mumbai and Pune across 10 assets, including parks, data centres, and logistics facilities.

The company aims to grow its funds under management from over 8 billion Singapore dollars to about 15 billion Singapore dollars by 2028.

The announcement was made during the launch of CapitaLand Investment's first data centre in India, located in Navi Mumbai.

The event was attended by Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong, Acting Transport Minister and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with senior executives from CapitaLand and government officials.

CapitaLand is currently trading 2.55% higher at $2.8200 on the Stock Exchange of Singapore.

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Business News
Elbit Systems Ltd. (ESLT, ESLT.TA), an Israel-based military company, reported Wednesday higher profit and revenues in its second quarter.

Separately, Elbit Systems announced that is has been awarded $1.635 billion contract to deliver a range of defense solutions to an unnamed European country. The Implementation of the contract is expected to span over a 5-year period.

The contract includes two groups of technologically advanced solutions from Elbit Systems, which are based on its cutting-edge technologies and portfolio and include embedded AI technology, among others.

In the first group, the company will provide long-range precision strike artillery-rocket systems and a broad-spectrum of unmanned reconnaissance and loitering aerial combat systems, from operational to tactical ranges, including personally operated drones.

In the second group, among others, the firm will offer highly sophisticated ISTAR capabilities, including SIGINT, COMINT and electronic warfare systems. It also includes enabled intelligence collection and processing systems, along with advanced electro-optical (E/O) and night-vision systems, combat vehicle upgrade, and protective systems.

Further, the company's Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.75 per share, with record date of October 14, and payable on October 27.

In its second quarter, Elbit Systems' net income attributable to the shareholders climbed to $125.70 million from $78.37 million last year.

Earnings per share were $2.69, as compared to $1.76 in the second quarter of 2024.

Adjusted attributable net income was $151.0 million, compared to $92.7 million a year ago. Adjusted earnings per share were $3.23 for the second quarter, compared to $2.08 last year.

Revenues in the second quarter climbed to $1.97 billion from prior year's $1.63 billion.

Aerospace revenues increased 12 percent mainly due to increased Precision Guided Munition or PGM sales in Israel and Asia Pacific and UAS sales in Europe.

C4I and Cyber revenues increased 21 percent, mainly due to radio systems and command and control systems sales in Israel and Europe.

The Company's order backlog as of June 30 totaled $23.8 billion. Approximately 68 percent of the current backlog is attributable to orders outside of Israel.

Around 46 percent of the order backlog is scheduled to be performed during the remainder of 2025 and 2026.

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Hudbay Minerals Inc.(HBM,HBM.TO) reported Wednesday a profit in its second quarter, compared to prior year's loss, with growth in revenues. Further, the firm reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 production guidance.

Separately, Hudbay Minerals announced a $600 million joint venture transaction with Japanese conglomerate Mitsubishi Corp. (MBC.L,MSBHY.PK) for a 30 percent minority interest in Copper World LLC, which owns the fully-permitted Copper World project in Arizona.

In the pre-market activity, Hudbay Minerals shares were climbing around 14.6 percent to trade at $11.28.

Mitsubishi has agreed to acquire a 30 percent interest in Hudbay unit Copper World, for an initial cash contribution of $600 million.

The joint venture will be structured as a new limited liability corporation, Copper World LLC. Under the JV Transaction, the initial contribution of $600 million will consist of $420 million upon closing and a $180 million matching contribution payable no later than 18 months following closing.

Hudbay will retain 100 percent of its existing U.S. federal net operating losses of approximately $275 million and Arizona state losses of $210 million.

The JV Transaction is expected to close in late 2025 or early 2026, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Mitsubishi will also fund its pro-rata 30 percent share of future equity capital contributions.

The company noted that Copper World will support the U.S. Government's foreign investment and national security objectives with a projected direct $1.5 billion investment into the U.S. critical minerals supply chain.

The fully permitted initial phase of the Copper World project is located on private land owned by Hudbay. The mine is expected to produce 85,000 tonnes of copper per year over an initial 20-year mine life.

During the three-year construction period, Copper World is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs annually.

Mitsubishi will be contributing 30 percent of the ongoing costs beginning August 31, 2025 and will participate in the funding of the DFS as well as the final project design, project financing, and project construction for Copper World.

Regarding the second quarter results, Hudbay Minerals noted that net earnings attributable to owners was $117.7 million or $0.30 per share, compared to prior year's loss of $16.5 million, or $0.04 per share.

Adjusted earnings attributable to owners was $75.5 million or $0.19 per share, compared to $0.2 million or breakeven per share last year.

Revenue for the quarter grew to $536.4 million from $425.5 million last year.

In the second quarter, consolidated copper production was 29,956 tonnes and consolidated gold production was 56,271 ounces.

Further, the company continues to expect fiscal 2025 consolidated production of 117,000 to 149,000 tonnes of copper and 247,500 to 308,000 ounces of gold.

For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com

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Business News
One of Indias leading premium vehicle manufacturers, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, has just updated its sub 4m crossover SUV with improved safety and increased style quotient. Were talking about the 2025 Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor, which was just updated with improved safety quotient and revised pricing structure. Lets take a closer look at finer details.

2025 Toyota Taisor Updated

Taisor is the most affordable Crossover SUVs Toyota offers in India. It is a magnetic vehicle that attracts SUV buyers into the Toyota world. Keeping it updated with latest and greatest technology and safety is paramount for Toyota. In that regard, Toyota has just launched 2025 Urban Cruiser Taisor.

With this latest 2025 version, Toyota is offering 6 airbags as standard fitment across all variants. This move aligns with Toyotas greater vision of offering higher safety standards to the masses. Currently, Urban Cruiser Taisor is offered in five trim levels  E, S, S Plus, G and V. All the variants across all trim levels are now equipped with 6 airbags.

This move comes with a revision in pricing as well. New prices for 2025 Toyota Taisor start from Rs 7.89 lakh (Ex-sh) and goes till Rs 13.19 lakh (Ex-sh). The corresponding price hike is up to 1% of previous prices, which ranges between Rs 12,000 with base variant and Rs 28,000 with top variant.

Along with improving the safety proposition of Taisor, Toyota has offered a new Bluish Black colour with the MY25 version. Interestingly, Maruti Suzuki Fronx also gets a Bluish Black colour. However, Taisors Bluish Black seems to be darker. It has to be noted that Fronx received the same 6 airbags update and Maruti Suzuki hiked the prices by around 0.5% of previous prices.

Any other changes?

Other than an improved safety proposition, revised prices and a new Bluish Black colour, 2025 Toyota Taisor updated, remains almost identical to its predecessor. It continues with the same powertrains too, which include a 1.2L 4-cylinder NA Petrol engine and a 1.0L 3-cylinder Turbo Petrol engine.

Toyota has continued CNG variants of Taisor with MY25 version as well. While CNG variants only get a 5-speed MT, NA Petrol engine gets a 5-speed MT and an AMT option whereas 1.0L Turbo Petrol engine gets a 5-speed MT and a 6-speed torque converter automatic option too.
The official launch event is set to be held on 19 August 2025, when 4 models will be unveiled

Tata Motors is soon set to make a comeback into South African market, following its exit in 2019. The Indian automaker had made this announcement earlier this year and even signed a deal with Motus who will act as their local distributors. Tata could restart operations with four vehicles, which can be increased later.

Tata to Introduce 4 Models into South Africas Car Market

During its previous 15-year association with the South African market, Tata Indica hatchback was a popular model that appealed to local buyers. Now, marking its return into the South African passenger vehicle segment, the company plans to introduce 4 models in the hatchback and premium SUV segments. It may be mentioned that this re-entry is exclusively for the companys passenger vehicles as Tata Motors continues to offer their commercial vehicle lineup in South Africa under Tata International South Africa.

Speaking on this new expansion, Yash Khandelwal, Head International Business, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles states that South Africa is an important market in our global expansion journey. With our class-leading products and a reputed partner in Motus, we are here to offer our South African customers a choice of vehicles that are safe, stylish, and innovation-driven.

Tata PVs Detailed for Entry into South Africa

As a part of the deal between Tata Motors and Motus, four of Tatas passenger vehicles will be introduced into South Africa by the end of this year. These models are currently under homologation so as to ensure they comply with local regulations. While no details of which models will be introduced, there is some speculation especially with the company releasing teaser images of four of its products which could make their way into showrooms across South Africa.

Punch

Tata Punch appears in the teaser. This compact SUV is based on the companys Agile Light Flexible Advanced Architecture (ALFA-ARC). It will compete with the Citroen C3, Nissan Magnite and Hyundai Exter in South Africa. Punch is powered by a 1.2 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine offering 86 hp power and 115 Nm torque mated to a 5 speed manual or 5 speed AMT. Where pricing is concerned, the Punch could be priced at around R 200,000.

Harrier

Tata Motors also showed off the Harrier in its teaser image. This mid-sized SUV was easily identifiable via its horizontal LED DRL above its front grille. The Harrier draws its power via a 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel engine making 170 PS power and gets mated to a 6 speed manual or automatic gearbox sending power to its front wheels. Priced in India from Rs 15 lakh, it could be offered at around R 400,000 in South African markets where it will compete with the Jetour Dashing, that carries a price tag of R 439,900.

Curvv

Tata Curvv was also discerned in the teaser image. It could be marking its entry into South Africa later this year. Its engine options could be the same as that offered in India. These include a 1.2 liter turbo petrol engine that makes up to 123 hp power along with a 1.5 liter turbo-diesel unit that offers 116 bhp. Prices in South African markets may start off from R 300,000 while it will compete with the Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Starlet Cross.

Tiago

The fourth Tata model to enter South Africa is Tata Tiago hatchback, as seen in the teaser. This will be the companys entry level offering in the country and considering its diminutive size, it may be the smallest offering in this region. It will draw its power via a 1.2 liter petrol engine making 86 hp and mated to a 5 speed manual or AMT. Pricing could range from R 180,000 while it will compete with the Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Celerio, and Renault Kwid.

In addition to the four previously mentioned models, Tata Motors could also launch the Altroz hatchback, Nexon sub 4m SUV, and 7 seater Safari. The Tata passenger car range will be imported into the country by Motus, which also represents automotive brands such as Hyundai, Kia and Renault in South Africa.

Source
To establish a strong foothold in the Indian market, Vinfast aims to quickly expand its portfolio

Vinfast recently opened bookings for the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs in India. There are plans to introduce more models, as evident with the recent patent filed for Vinfast Limo Green 7-seat SUV. Vinfast has now filed a patent for another EV called the Minio Green. Lets check out the details.

Vinfast Minio Green  Styling, features

In the Vietnamese market, the Vinfast Minio Green is positioned as a commercial electric vehicle. For India, a multi-use strategy could be formulated. Better clarity will emerge when an official statement is made. Measuring 3,090 mm in length, the Minio Green is positioned to compete in the 2-door all-electric supermini segment. It is slightly longer than the MG Comet that measures 2,974 mm in length.

Minio Green easily gets ones attention with its compact, tall-boy profile. Some of the key features include a closed-off grille, semi-circular-style headlamps and prominent bumper design. Minio Green has a small bonnet, circular wheel arches, 13-inch wheels and traditional door handles. At the rear, the EV has a shark fin antenna, a flat windscreen and vertically stacked tail lamps. A total of six colour options are on offer with Minio Green.

Interiors are pretty basic, focused on roominess, comfort and practical applications. Theres a digital driver display that also functions as an infotainment system. There is no separate infotainment or audio setup. The EV has a grey interior theme with blue accents on the dash, door handles and upholstery.

Other highlights include rotary dials, a few physical buttons and a flat bottom 2-spoke steering wheel. Minio Green has 4-way adjustable drivers seat, fabric seat upholstery and day and night interior rearview mirror. Safety kit includes features such as driver airbag, ABS and traction control system. Smart features include self-diagnosis and payment via QR code on mobile app.

Minio Green  Performance, range

Vinfast Minio Green is equipped with a 14.7 kWh battery pack. The electric motor generates 20 kW (27 PS) and 65 Nm of peak torque. Power is supplied to the rear axle (RWD) and users can choose from driving modes of Eco and Normal. Minio Green has a top speed of 80 km/h. Range is 170 km, as per NEDC standards. The EV supports charging of up to 12 kW.

Local manufacturing to reduce costs

Vinfast has set up a manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu to produce its electric cars. Manufacturing has already commenced VF 7. The plant has an initial production capacity of 50,000 units per annum. Based on demand, capacity can be scaled up to 1.5 lakh units per year. With local manufacturing, Vinfast can launch its EVs at a competitive price point.

Along with meeting domestic demand, the plant will also cater to export markets in South East Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Capacity will be expanded gradually, which will entail an investment of around Rs 16,000 crore in a phased manner. The plant will generate hundreds of direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs.
PARIS  SMCP, the parent company of Sandro, Maje, Claudie Pierlot, and Fursac, has regained control of a 15.5 percent stake of its capital as a result of a ruling by the Singapore High Court, following a lengthy legal battle.

The group said Monday after market close that the shares  previously transferred in 2021 to Dynamic Treasure Group, a trust registered in the British Virgin Islands  have officially been returned to European TopSoho, a Luxembourg-based holding entity and former majority shareholder of SMCP. The return of the shares follows a July 4 decision by the court in Singapore, where the shares were being held.

More from WWD

The return of the shares clarifies SMCPs shareholding situation, the company said in a statement. The group remains focused on executing its profitable growth strategy, leveraging the desirability of its brands, its operational agility, and ongoing efforts in cost management.

The 15.5 percent stake has been at the center of a years-long shareholder dispute dating back to the financial collapse of Chinese conglomerate Shandong Ruyi, which had acquired a majority stake in SMCP in 2016 through European TopSoho ahead of the groups 2017 initial public offering.

This is the latest twist of the missing shares case that began in 2021, when 15.5 percent of the share capital disappeared from Luxembourg and reappeared in the British Virgin Islands two-and-a-half months later.

They reappeared in the accounts of Dynamic Treasure Group, also controlled by European TopSoho director Chenran Qiu, the daughter of Shandong Ruyis founder. European TopSoho had sold them to Dynamic Treasure Group for a symbolic one euro.

In the interim, European TopSoho also issued a press release denying Qius involvement in Dynamic Treasure Group, misleading the market.

The Singapore court ruling followed a similar decision by the English High Court in July 2024, which canceled the sale of the shares to Dynamic Treasure Group. Jurisdiction moved to Singapore, where the shares were being held in local accounts.

European TopSoho, which entered bankruptcy proceedings in February 2023, is now under the control of a court-appointed administrator in Luxembourg.

The return of the 15.5 percent stake wont immediately change control of SMCP but does bring greater transparency to investors.

London-based GLAS currently acts as trustee for European TopSohos creditors, including BlackRock, Carlyle, Anchorage, Boussard and Gavaudan, who remain SMCPs largest shareholders. Last year, GLAS revealed its intention to offload 37 percent of the groups shares  a move that could trigger a mandatory takeover under French law if a single buyer snaps them up.
By Nqobile Dludla

GQEBERHA, South Africa (Reuters) -Low domestic sales of locally made cars, an influx of imports and low levels of local content have led to 12 company closures and over 4,000 job losses in the South African motor industry over two years, the trade minister said on Wednesday.

South Africa, a market long dominated by the likes of Volkswagen, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz, saw sales of 515,850 locally produced cars last year, far below the South Africa Automotive Masterplan 2035 target of 784,509, Minister Parks Tau told delegates at an auto parts conference.

Some 64% of vehicles sold in South Africa are imports. Additionally, localisation - the level of local assembly, labour and components - remains stagnant at 39%, well short of the 60% target, while U.S. tariffs now significantly impact the country's 28.7 billion rand ($1.64 billion) automotive exports, he added.

"These pressures have triggered 12 company closures and over 4,000 job losses in two years," Tau said.

South Africa's automotive industry employs 115,000 people directly, with over 80,000 in component manufacturing alone. Experts say that with the U.S. tariffs on cars and parts that were imposed from April, jobs are under threat as some companies lose contracts in America.

On Tuesday, South Africa submitted a revised offer for a trade deal with Washington, in an effort to lower the 30% tariff U.S. President Donald Trump imposed last week.

To help respond to the challenges the industry is facing, an incentive scheme for local manufacturing now includes electric vehicles and associated components, Tau said.

"Localisation is not merely policy compliance, it is existential. A 5% increase in local content would unlock 30 billion rand in new procurement, dwarfing the 4.4 billion rand U.S. export market," Tau said.

International manufacturers such as Stellantis and China's Chery are looking to localise production in South Africa, with Stellantis ready to break ground in the Eastern Cape province.

(Reporting by Nqobile Dludla; editing by Giles Elgood)
Domestic sales rose by 0.4% to 56,227 units last month from 56,009 a year earlier, resulting in a 2.3% increase to 411,127 units in the first seven months of the year from 401,713 previously. Overseas sales increased by 0.5% to 278,567 units in July from 277,285 units a year earlier, while year-to-date volumes were down slightly to 1,990,092 from 1,995,695 units, underpinned by strong sales in North America.

Hyundai Motor s global sales rose by just 0.5% to 334,794 vehicles in July 2025 from 333,294 a year earlier, with domestic and overseas sales both slightly higher. In the first seven months of the year the company sold a total of 2,401,786 vehicles, slightly higher than the 2,397,138 units sold in the same period last year.

Global sales by the countrys big-five automakers, including vehicles produced overseas, increased by less than 1% to 4,650,796 units in the first seven months of 2025 from 4,619,077 units a year earlier  with overseas sales also up slightly to 3,851,443 from 3,837,223 units.

In the first seven months of the year the countrys five main domestic vehicle manufacturers reported a 2.5% increase in domestic sales to 799,353 units combined, up from 779,516 units in the same period last year. Hyundai reported a 2.3% rise to 411,127 units, while Kias sales increased just slightly to 321,440 units. GM Korea was the worst performer, with sales plunging by 40% to 9,347 units, while KG Mobility reported a 19% drop to 22,777 units. Renault Korea was the best performing brand, with domestic sales surging by 153% to 32,065 units following the recent launch of the Geely-based Grand Koleos Hybrid SUV.

The domestic vehicle market last month continued to be supported by the recent rollout of new products, particularly by the countrys largest automakers Hyundai and Kia. Overall vehicle demand in the country remains sluggish, however, due to high household debt and weak consumer sentiment. The countrys GDP expanded by 0.6% in the second quarter, according to preliminary government data, after shrinking by 0.2% in the first quarter, helped by a further 25 basis point interest rate cut to 2.50% in May  the fourth cut in the last year from a peak of 3.50%.

Domestic sales by South Koreas five main automakers combined increased by 1% to 110,926 units in July 2025 from 109,924 units a year earlier, according to preliminary wholesale data released individually by the manufacturers. The data do not include sales by South Koreas low-volume commercial vehicle manufacturers including Tata-Daewoo and Edison Motors, while import brands are covered in a separate report later in the month.

Story continues

The companys new EV plant in the US state of Georgia became operational last October, producing the Ioniq 5, followed by the Ioniq 9 earlier this year. A Kia model is also set to go into production in 2026. The automaker said it will expand capacity at the plant to 500,000 units per year later in the decade from 300,000 at present.

Earlier this year Hyundai set a target of 4,174,000 global vehicle sales for 2025, including its Genesis luxury brand, representing a slight increase over 2024 volumes. This includes 710,000 domestic sales and 3,464,000 overseas sales. In response to the recent US import duty hikes and rising international competition, the automaker said it will continue to respond flexibly to customer demand and implement optimal sales strategies, including production optimization for high-demand models and making improvements for other key models."

Kias global sales increased just slightly to 262,705 vehicles in July from 261,798 a year earlier, supported by recently-launched battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid models, and strong demand for core SUV models such as the Sportage and Seltos, with 46,901 and 28,538 deliveries respectively, and the Sorento with 17,852 units. In the first seven months of the year, Kias global sales rose by 1.8% to 1,850,241 units from 1,817,495 a year earlier.

Domestic sales declined by 2.2% to 45,017 units last month from 46,010 units a year earlier, with the Carnival MPV being its best-selling model with 7,211 domestic deliveries, followed by the Sorento with 7,053 sales and the Sportage with 5,424 units. Domestic sales in the first seven months of the year increased slightly to 321,440 units from 321,250 a year earlier. The company sold a further 2,597 special purpose vehicles (SPVs) in this period, down from 2,655 a year earlier, most of which were military vehicles delivered domestically.

Overseas sales rose by 1% to 217,188 units in July from 215,188 a year earlier, but were up by over 2% to 1,526,204 units year-to-date from 1,493,590 units, driven by an 8% rise in US sales to 487,634units. The Sportage was the brands best-selling model overseas last month with 41,477 deliveries, followed by the Seltos with 23,617 units.

Kia is targeting a 4% increase in global sales to 3,216,200 units in 2025, including 550,000 domestic sales, 2,658,000 overseas sales and 8,200 SPV sales, supported by the recent launch of the new K4 and revamped K5 sedans and the Syros SUV in India. In the first quarter of the year the company rolled out its new Tasman pickup truck and the EV4 battery-powered sedan, to be followed by the PV5 and EV5 models later this year. The companys medium-term plan is to sell 4.3 million vehicles globally by 2030, including 1.6 million BEVs.

GM Koreas global sales rose by 23% to 32,244 units in July from 22,564 units a year earlier, reflecting sharply higher overseas sales, while in the first seven months of the year volumes dropped by 3.6% to 281,599 from 291,986 units. The Trailblazer SUV and Trax crossover vehicle remain by far the companys best-selling models, with most output shipped overseas.

Domestic sales continued to plunge last month, by 44% to 1,226 units from 2,199 units a year earlier, while year-to-date sales were down by 40 % to 9,347 units from 15,656 units - as the automaker struggled with rising competition from other domestic manufacturers and from importers.

Exports surged by 52% to 31,018 units in July from 20,412 a year earlier, but we down by 1.4% to 272,252 units year-to-date from 276,377 units. Around 85% of output was shipped to the US last year, making the company particularly vulnerable to US import tariff hikes.

KG Mobility (KGM) reported a 16% increase in global sales to 9,620 vehicles in July from 8,313 units a year earlier, driven by strong domestic sales which more than offset a sharp decline in exports. Total sales in the first seven months of the year were still 3% lower at 62,892 units, compared with 64,878 a year earlier. The company, previously known as Ssangyong Motor, was acquired in late 2022 by a consortium led by local steel and chemicals firm KG Group.

Domestic sales rose by 5% to 4,456 units last month from 4,237 a year earlier, helped by the recently launched Actyon Hybrid, but were still down by 19% at 22,777 units year-to-date from 28,215 units, as the automaker struggled to keep up with rising competition from other domestic manufacturers and from importers.

Overseas sales increased by 27% to 5,164 in July from 4,076 a year earlier, helped by strong deliveries of its Torres EVX in Turkey. This resulted in a 9% rise to 40,115 units year-to-date from 36,663 units a year earlier, as the company continued to expand its global market coverage.

KGM plans to further expand its zero-emissions vehicle range, following the launch of a new minivan version of the Torres EVX battery-powered SUV last September. Earlier this year the company launched the new battery-powered Musso EV pickup truck.

"South Korea report: domestic sales rise 1% in July" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




New hominin fossils recovered from the Ledi-Geraru Research Project area in the Afar region of Ethiopia suggest the presence of early Homo at 2.78 and 2.59 million years ago and a previously unknown species of Australopithecus at 2.63 million years ago.

The time interval between about 3 and 2 million years ago is a critical period in human evolution.

This is when the genera Homo and Paranthropus first appear in the fossil record and a possible ancestor of these genera, Australopithecus afarensis, disappears.

We used to think of human evolution as fairly linear, with a steady march from an ape-like ancestor to modern Homo sapiens, said University of Nevada Las Vegas researcher Brian Villmoare and his colleagues.

Instead, humans have branched out multiple times into different niches.

Our pattern of evolution is not particularly unusual, and what has happened to humans has happened to every other tree of life.

This is what we should be finding in the human fossil record.

Nature experimented with different ways to be a human as the climate became drier in East Africa, and earlier more ape-like species went extinct.

Dr. Villmoare and co-authors found 13 hominin teeth at the Ledi-Geraru site in the Afar Region of Ethiopia.

They determined that, although some of these fossils belong to the genus Homo, a set of upper and lower teeth belong to a previously unknown species of the genus Australopithecus.

This new species is distinct from Australopithecus afarensis, which last appears at roughly 2.95 million years ago and was discovered in nearby Hadar.

The presence of both species in the same location shows that human evolution is less linear and more tree-like, Dr. Villmoare said.

The Ledi-Geraru site is the same field site where in 2013, paleoanthropologists discovered the jaw of the earliest Homo specimen ever found at 2.8 million years old.

The new finds of Homo teeth from 2.6-2.8 million-year-old sediments confirm the antiquity of our lineage, Dr. Villmoare said.

We know what the teeth and mandible of the earliest Homo look like, but thats it.

This emphasizes the critical importance of finding additional fossils to understand the differences between Australopithecus and Homo, and potentially how they were able to overlap in the fossil record at the same location.

The Afar region is still an active rifting environment, said Dr. Christopher Campisano, a geologist at Arizona State University.

There were a lot of volcanoes and tectonic activity and when these volcanoes erupted ash, the ash contained crystals called feldspars that allow the scientists to date them.

We can date the eruptions that were happening on the landscape when theyre deposited.

And we know that these fossils are interbed between those eruptions, so we can date units above and below the fossils.

We are dating the volcanic ash of the eruptions that were happening while they were on the landscape.

It is a critical time period for human evolution as this new paper shows, said Arizona State Universitys Professor Ramon Arrowsmith.

The geology gives us the age and characteristics of the sedimentary deposits containing the fossils. It is essential for age control.

Whenever you have an exciting discovery, if youre a paleontologist, you always know that you need more information, said Dr. Kaye Reed, a paleoecologist at Arizona State University.

You need more fossils. Thats why its an important field to train people in and for people to go out and find their own sites and find places that we havent found fossils yet.

More fossils will help us tell the story of what happened to our ancestors a long time ago  but because were the survivors we know that it happened to us.

The discovery is reported in a paper published today in the journal Nature.

_____

B. Villmoare et al. New discoveries of Australopithecus and Homo from Ledi-Geraru, Ethiopia. Nature, published online August 13, 2025; doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09390-4
Soybeans are trading with contracts 20 to 25 cents higher across most contracts on Monday. The cmdtyView national average Cash Bean price is up 24 3/4 cents at $9.53. Soymeal futures are higher at midday, with contracts up $4.60 to $5.10. Soy Oil futures are 39 to 70 points higher. There were another 108 August soybean meal deliveries, with the month to date total at 3,471 contracts.

Overnight, President Trump posted that, China is worried about its shortage of soybeans. Our great farmers produce the most robust soybeans. I hope China will quickly quadruple its soybean orders... This was enough to take the market higher on the hopes of some buying, if not a deal.

More News from Barchart

USDA tallied soybean export shipments at 518,066 MT (19.04 mbu) during the week ending on August 7. That was down 17.5% from last week but 47.6% above the same week last. Of that total, 154,646 MT was headed to Mexico, with 68,869 MT on its way to Germany and 58,086 MT to Egypt. Marketing year exports have totaled 48.37 MMT (1.777bbu), which is 11.2% above the same period last year.

Managed money added another 29,619 contracts to their net short position as of August 5, taking the total to 65,930 contracts. Commercials were net short 68,230 contracts by Tuesday a 19,529 contract reduction on the week.

Ahead of the Tuesday Crop Production report, traders are looking for US soybean yield to be 53 bpa, with a range of 52 to 54. Production is seen at 4.374 billion bushels, which is up 39 mbu from the July WASDE. Analysts estimate old crop carryout down 5 mbu to 345 mbu. New crop stocks are seen 41 mbu higher at 351 mbu,

Aug 25 Soybeans are at $9.89 1/2, up 22 3/4 cents,

Nearby Cash is at $9.53, up 24 3/4 cents,

Sep 25 Soybeans are at $9.93 1/4, up 25 1/2 cents,

Nov 25 Soybeans are at $10.13, up 25 1/2 cents,

New Crop Cash is at $9.43 1/2, up 24 1/2 cents,

On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder 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
This story was originally published on Grocery Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Grocery Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

SpartanNash said Monday that it has brought on a pair of executives to serve in leadership roles in a newly formed division that encompasses the grocery companys finance, information technology and strategy groups.

Ed Rybicki has assumed the role of senior vice president and chief information officer for the grocery distributor and retailer, while Brett Hoffman has become vice president and chief information security officer.

The appointments follow SpartanNashs announcement in June that it has agreed to be acquired by C&S Wholesale Grocers in a $1.77 billion-dollar transaction due to be completed later this year.

Dive Insight:

SpartanNash said the companys decision to hire Rybicki and Hoffman reflects its strategy of depending on technology to improve its ability to serve wholesale customers and consumers.

Rybicki will direct SpartanNashs technology group and will focus on innovation, operational efficiency and the companys growth strategy. Hoffman, who will report to Rybicki, will lead SpartanNashs cybersecurity strategy in its retail, supply chain and corporate units.

As a customer-focused, innovative food solutions company, our technology must simplify work for our Associates, create a seamless experience for our wholesale customers, and support a rich, omnichannel journey for our shoppers, SpartanNash CFO Jason Monaco, who will oversee the unit both executives are part of, said in a statement.

Rybicki served most recently as chief information and technology officer at Canadian food supplier Mastronardi Produce. He also held senior IT roles at companies including ventilator and respiratory diagnostics equipment maker Vyaire Medical,; food technology company Merieux Nutrisciences; and auto parts supplier Delphi, according to SpartanNash.

Hoffman formerly served as vice president of enterprise security solutions and chief information security officer for consulting firm Inspire Security Solutions. Earlier, he worked for furniture maker MillerKnoll, employee benefits provider HealthEquity, direct-selling company Amway and Corewell Health, a healthcare company based in Michigan, SpartanNash said.

Rybicki and Hoffman are settling into their new roles as SpartanNash navigates a tumultuous period that included the departure of former Chief Strategy and Information Officer Masiar Tayebi, who left in April after four years with the grocery retailer and wholesaler. The company also disclosed in June that it had revamped its corporate structure and eliminated an unspecified number of positions.
JDP Capital Management, an investment management company, released its Survivor & Thriver Fund second-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The beginning of 2025 marked one of the most challenging starts to a market year since the COVID outbreak. Following a decline of more than 20% in March and early April, the S&P 500 demonstrated one of the quickest V-shaped recoveries ever, regaining all of its losses by June. In this environment, the fund was up 19.2% in 2Q and 16.8% in the first half of 2005, outperforming the S&P 500s 10.6% gain in 2Q and 6.2% gain in the first half, including dividends. For more information on the funds best picks in 2025, please check its top five holdings.

In its second-quarter 2025 investor letter, JDP Capital Management highlighted stocks such as Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT). Headquartered in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) offers audio streaming subscription services. The one-month return of Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) was -2.30%, and its shares gained 106.18% of their value over the last 52 weeks. On August 12, 2025, Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) stock closed at $689.35 per share, with a market capitalization of $141.853 billion.

JDP Capital Management stated the following regarding Spotify Technology S.A. (NYSE:SPOT) in its second quarter 2025 investor letter:
A shareholder lawsuit recently filed against Tesla (TSLA) continued a run of bad news for the Elon Musk-led electric vehicle (EV) company, though its stock price hasnt been too badly affected by it.

Read More: Does Tesla Become More Valuable for Investors When Elon Musk Gets Richer?

Learn More: How Much Money Is Needed To Be Considered Middle Class in Your State?

The class-action suit was filed on Aug. 4, 2025, Reuters reported. In it, shareholders accused Musk and Tesla of securities fraud for concealing dangers involving its self-driving vehicles  which are considered a key growth driver for the company. What could this lawsuit mean for the stock and shareholders?

Also see whether its time to sell Tesla stock after one analyst called its valuation insane.

Self-Driving Test Problems

Shareholders accused Musk and Tesla of repeatedly overstating the effectiveness of and prospects for their self-driving technology and in turn inflating the stock price and prospects of the company, Reuters noted.

The suit followed Teslas self-driving tests in June that produced less-than-stellar results. It also came only days after Tesla was found to be partly liable in the death of a pedestrian who was struck by a Tesla car operating in Autopilot mode in 2019, Investors Business Daily reported.

Check Out: Tesla Is Awarding Elon Musk 96 Million Shares of Stock: Heres How Much Its Worth

What Does It Mean for Investors?

Despite the lawsuits negative headlines, it hasnt had much impact on Teslas stock price. The companys shares closed at $309.26 on Aug. 4. They fell only slightly the next day to close at $308.72 and then rose to a high of $320.47 on Aug. 6 before finishing the session at $319.91. The stock closed even higher at $339.03 on Aug. 11.

As Investors Business Daily noted, some analysts have warned investors against overreacting to negative headlines involving Teslas self-driving technology.

Weve learned to ignore headlines related to Autopilot reliability, Piper Sandler analysts wrote in a note to clients. But the robotaxi rollout has breathed new life into this topic, and we feel compelled to comment on recent media intrigue. This case does not have direct implications for Teslas [Full Self-Driving] rollout.

But Other Problems Loom

While Wall Street shrugs off Teslas legal problems, the company faces numerous headaches in other areas  including a stock price that is down more than 11% in 2025 due to a combination of political and business dynamics.

The political dynamic has to do with Musks role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk is no longer affiliated with DOGE, but controversy surrounding the organization battered his public image and the Tesla brand.
Inspired by a school nurse, Lynda Gregorini now provides dental care and career mentoring to students in rural Michigan schools.

Lynda Gregorini with her friend and mentor, Dr. Jessica A. Rickert.

Lynda Gregorini showcases her school-based dental care nonprofit at a community parade.
Tesla shares jump as popular analyst revamps target originally appeared on TheStreet.

Elon Musk has a big challenge on his hands. Fresh off his controversial stint as head of the Department of Government Efficiency, he's knee-deep in rolling out autonomous cars for ridesharing in key markets like Austin and San Francisco.

The ridesharing push is critical to re-energizing Tesla's brand, which was heavily damaged worldwide during his time in the Trump administration.

Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter

Tesla's sales have free-fallen in key areas once considered friendliest to electric vehicles, including California and Europe, causing profits and the company's stock price to sink.

The headwinds remain stiff, but Tesla's shares have recently surged higher on autonomous driving optimism and, according to Fundstrat analyst Mark Newton, the move may not be over.

Elon Musk's Tesla has struggled in 2025 amid slowing sales, but Fundstrat's Mark Newton thinks its stock price is heading higher.Image source: Shutterstock

Tesla gets a new stock price target amid robotaxi launches

Tesla's robotaxi opportunity is significant.

Goldman Sachs predicts the global robotaxi rideshare market may grow to $12 billion by 2030, an estimated 90% compound annual growth rate. They also think it could continue to increase, reaching $47 billion in 2035.

Related: Tesla just got its biggest break yet in the robotaxi wars with a key permit

Tesla won't capture all that market opportunity, given that it faces stiff competition. Waymo is already testing autonomous driving in many markets, and Amazon-backed Zoox is testing vehicles in key markets like Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

Meanwhile, ridesharing giant Uber has partnered with Waymo, providing Waymo rides via its app, and it recently cut a deal with Lucid to roll out 20,000 vehicles powered with Nuro Driver, an autonomous driving software. It expects to launch in its first US city in 2026.

Still, there's no debate that Tesla is a leader and that the autonomous vehicle market is in its early days, providing plenty of room for growth.

The opportunity ahead of it is likely a big reason why Tesla's stock price has climbed 12% since August 1. This move was large enough for Tesla shares to recapture their 200-day moving average and attract the attention of Fundstrat's Head of Technical Strategy, Mark Newton.

Newton has been using technical analysis to evaluate what's likely to happen to stocks in the future for over twenty years. This week, he updated his Tesla outlook, offering a new price target of $488 by the end of 2025.

The analyst is encouraged by Tesla's rally happening on above-average daily trading volume.
Construction and infrastructure products group Hill and Smith has announced a 100m share buyback programme after reporting strong cash generation and a double-digit increase in underlying profits in the first half.

The company, which operates a range of brands across the engineering solutions markets in the US, UK and India, along with galvanising services in the US and UK, said underlying operating profit totalled 73.5m over the six months to 30 June, up 11% at constant currencies.

Revenues were up 4% at 413.6m, driven by good performances in the US Engineered Solutions and Galvanizing Services divisions.

Underlying cash conversion improved to 85%, from 83% in the first half of 2024, while the return on invested capital rose to 25.7% from 22.5%.

Meanwhile, covenant leverage improved to 0.1 times, down from 0.3 times at the end of last year, which Hill and Smith said provides it with "significant capital allocation flexibility for both growth and returns".

Regarding the portfolio, the company said it has an "active" M&A pipeline with multiple discussions ongoing, particularly involving its larger US platform businesses.

"We have delivered another record performance in the first half, driven by a strong performance in our larger US platform businesses and better profitability in the UK," said chief executive Rutger Helbing.

Looking ahead, the company said full-year underlying operating profits should be in line with market expectations, ranging from 147.3m to 153.0m, with its second-half outlook underpinned by continued growth in US end markets.

"Having assessed the capital requirements for the group, given the strength of the balance sheet and cash generation we have the capacity to return capital to shareholders, without compromising our ability to deliver on our growth priorities. We are therefore today announcing a 100m share buyback," Helbing said.
The Treasury is looking at ways to raise more money from inheritance tax amid growing pressure on the countrys finances ahead of the autumn budget, sources have told the Guardian. Officials have been tasked with examining whether tightening rules on the gifting of money and assets could be one way of addressing a gap between revenue and spending that is estimated to reach more than 40bn.  Guardian

A group of nine human rights and freedom of expression organisations have called on the culture secretary to halt RedBird Capitals proposed 500m takeover of the Telegraph and investigate the US private equity companys ties to China. The international non-governmental organisations, which include Index on Censorship, Reporters Without Borders and Article 19, have written to Lisa Nandy arguing that RedBird Capitals links with China threaten media pluralism, transparency and information integrity in the UK.  Guardian

Donald Trump told the boss of Goldman Sachs to focus on being a DJ after the Wall Street bank warned that the US presidents tariff campaign threatened the American economy. In a social media outburst, Mr Trump said David Solomon should not bother running a major financial institution as he defended his series of duties on trading partners.  Telegraph

Labour has parked over a million working-age Britons onto jobless benefits that do not require them to look for work, official figures show. The surge since Sir Keir Starmer took office means 3.7 million Britons  or almost half of those currently claiming Britains main unemployment benefit  are now exempt from finding a job.  Telegraph

Perplexity, an artificial intelligence start-up, is reported to have made an unsolicited offer to buy Googles Chrome browser for $34.5 billion. The bid revealed on Tuesday is unusual because it is almost double Perplexitys own valuation, which is estimated to be $18 billion, according to The Wall Street Journal.  The Times
Construction and infrastructure products group Hill & Smith surged as it announced a 100m share buyback programme after reporting strong cash generation and a double-digit increase in underlying profits in the first half.

The company, which operates a range of brands across the engineering solutions markets in the US, UK and India, along with galvanising services in the US and UK, said underlying operating profit totalled 73.5m over the six months to 30 June, up 11% at constant currencies.

Revenues were up 4% at 413.6m, driven by good performances in the US Engineered Solutions and Galvanizing Services divisions.

Underlying cash conversion improved to 85%, from 83% in the first half of 2024, while the return on invested capital rose to 25.7% from 22.5%.

Meanwhile, covenant leverage improved to 0.1 times, down from 0.3 times at the end of last year, which Hill and Smith said provides it with "significant capital allocation flexibility for both growth and returns".

Regarding the portfolio, the company said it has an "active" M&A pipeline with multiple discussions ongoing, particularly involving its larger US platform businesses.

"We have delivered another record performance in the first half, driven by a strong performance in our larger US platform businesses and better profitability in the UK," said chief executive Rutger Helbing.

Looking ahead, the company said full-year underlying operating profits should be in line with market expectations, ranging from 147.3m to 153.0m, with its second-half outlook underpinned by continued growth in US end markets.

"Having assessed the capital requirements for the group, given the strength of the balance sheet and cash generation we have the capacity to return capital to shareholders, without compromising our ability to deliver on our growth priorities. We are therefore today announcing a 100m share buyback," Helbing said.

Infrastructure group Balfour Beatty lost ground even as it backed its full-year expectations, reporting an increase in first-half profit as strength in the UK construction business offset US weakness.

In the half year ended 27 June, pre-tax profit rose to 132m from 112m in the same period a year ago, on revenue of 5.2bn, up from 4.7bn.

Balfour said the UK construction arm delivered profitable underlying growth to achieve its 3% margin target one year ahead of expectations. The division achieved a 3.6% PFO (profit from operations) margin.

The US construction business posted a first-half loss, however, with a strong Buildings performance offset by cost overruns at one Civils project.

Balfour said the order book grew 6% to 19.5bn, with growth in each segment, and "continues to give clear visibility in the short and medium term".

Chief executive Leo Quinn said: "Our continuing strong cash generation is underpinned by a growing order book with improved margins and lower risk contract forms. This provides the board with increasing confidence in significant future cash generation that supports our ongoing dividends and share buybacks. This is demonstrated by the momentum in our key growth areas in the first half.

"Support Services has delivered a 35% profit uplift driven by the power transmission business, UK Construction has achieved its long-standing 3% margin target earlier than expected and, in US Construction, Buildings reported strong revenue growth from its strategy of focused expansion.

"Furthermore, recent UK Government announcements confirm a deep pipeline of major infrastructure projects which closely align with the group's unique expert capabilities and will further enhance the quality of the future order book."



FTSE 250 - Risers

Hill and Smith (HILS) 2,165.00p 10.01%

Spire Healthcare Group (SPI) 227.50p 6.31%

Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) 221.60p 4.73%

Jupiter Fund Management (JUP) 131.60p 2.97%

4Imprint Group (FOUR) 3,370.00p 2.28%

Fidelity China Special Situations (FCSS) 292.50p 2.09%

Sirius Real Estate Ltd. (SRE) 102.40p 2.09%

Zigup (ZIG) 344.00p 2.08%

Morgan Advanced Materials (MGAM) 205.00p 1.74%

B&M European Value Retail S.A. (DI) (BME) 226.90p 1.70%

FTSE 250 - Fallers

Watches of Switzerland Group (WOSG) 331.60p -3.15%

Derwent London (DLN) 1,747.00p -3.00%

Diversified Energy Company (DEC) 1,110.00p -2.63%

Pagegroup (PAGE) 260.40p -2.54%

Playtech (PTEC) 422.00p -2.54%

Greggs (GRG) 1,584.00p -2.34%

Balfour Beatty (BBY) 556.00p -2.20%

Marshalls (MSLH) 197.60p -2.18%

Close Brothers Group (CBG) 535.00p -2.01%

Wizz Air Holdings (WIZZ) 1,332.00p -1.99%
The Perkins Cove Bookshop hosted its grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration last month at 12 Perkins Cove Rd. in Ogunquit, Maine. Mainebiz reported that "Ogunquit's only bookstore is writing an early success story in the southern Maine summer tourism hotspot."

Co-owners John Ranco and John Cancy had a soft opening in late May, followed by the grand opening on July 1. The bookstore is located near their other business, Perkins Cove Pottery Shop. Ranco told Mainebiz they have owned the pottery store for more than a decade, expanding it over the years into "more of a lifestyle store than a gallery."

Three years ago they began adding books, which eventually led to opening the Perkins Cove Bookshop when the right location became available. The 900-square-foot store stocks about 1,600 titles, from bestsellers to Maine authors and stories. Although the pottery shop is a seasonal business in a non-winterized building, Ranco said the bookstore will stay open through December and possibly on Saturdays during the winter "when it gets awfully quiet."

Their businesses employ 22 people combined, including six at the bookstore. "People who love books apply for jobs at bookstores," Ranco said. "We have this amazing talented crew of readers who work for us now who have such a breadth of knowledge around different titles and genres and adjacent authors."

Alice Pearce, executive director of the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce, said this is the first bookstore to open in the town for as long as anyone can remember, partly because of a 2006 local ordinance that bans franchises from operating there. "People have been waiting for a bookshop forever," she added. "It's been a boon for local authors."
(Reuters) -Piero Landolfi, Tesla's director of service for the North American market has left the EV maker after nearly nine years, joining an exodus of executives from the company grappling with a drop in sales.

Leaving Tesla was hard due to "the first principle thinking and the getting stuff done mentality" at the company, Landolfi said in a LinkedIn post on Sunday.

Landolfi has now joined AI robotics and autonomous e-commerce technology company Nimble as its senior vice president of operations, per his LinkedIn profile.

His move is the latest of a string of departures from the electric carmaker, joining Troy Jones, Tesla's top sales executive in North America, who left in July after 15 years with the company.

Raj Jegannathan, a senior executive with a wide purview including several IT and data functions, recently took over the sales role, Reuters reported exclusively last month.

Other key figures who left include Omead Afshar, Tesla CEO Elon Musk's confidant, who was in charge of sales and manufacturing operations in North America and Europe.

Milan Kovac, the head of Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot team, announced he was leaving in June. Other recent departures include top battery executive Vineet Mehta and software chief David Lau.

Musk's EV maker posted the worst quarterly sales decline in more than a decade and profit that missed Wall Street targets in July; its profit margin on making cars, however, was better than many feared.

Musk had said that U.S. government cuts in support for EV makers could lead to a "few rough quarters" for Tesla, before a wave of revenue from self-driving software and services begins late next year.

(Reporting by Juby Babu in Mexico City; Editing by Alan Barona)
IIT Bhubaneswar to set up a Rs 45 crore research lab in SiCSems Rs 2,066 crore semiconductor unit.

Facility will be Indias first commercial Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor fab.

Part of four new semiconductor projects under India Semiconductor Mission, boosting domestic chip production.

In a significant boost to Indias semiconductor manufacturing ambitions, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar will establish a Rs 45 crore research lab within the SiCSem semiconductor unit, Union Information and Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced. The facility will be part of the countrys first commercial compound semiconductor fabrication (fab) plant, located in Info Valley, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

SiCSem, which recently received approval to build its semiconductor plant with an investment of Rs 2,066 crore, is collaborating with UK-based Clas-SiC Wafer Fab to create an integrated Silicon Carbide (SiC) compound semiconductor facility. Once operational, the plant will have an annual production capacity of 60,000 wafers and a packaging capacity of 96 million units, according to an official release.

The new fab will produce Silicon Carbide devices used in a wide range of applications, including missiles, defence equipment, electric vehicles (EVs), railways, fast chargers, data centre racks, consumer appliances, and solar power inverters. Vaishnaw highlighted that global technology leaders such as Intel and Lockheed Martin have already invested in the company, and described the plant as 'the most advanced in the world'.

This development is part of a larger semiconductor push by the Centre. The Union Cabinet has approved four new semiconductor manufacturing projects worth Rs 4,600 crore under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) . These projects are expected to enhance domestic chip production, packaging capabilities, and advanced materials manufacturing while creating over 2,000 direct skilled jobs. Out of these, two plants will be in Odisha, one in Punjab, and one in Andhra Pradesh.

Vaishnaw assured that construction of all four newly approved plants will begin soon. As you have seen in the case of the first six plants, permissions came in record time within 100 days and within six months they began design and construction. We expect the same pace for these projects, he said. The Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have committed to starting construction in record time, he added.

The approvals bring the ISMs total portfolio to 10 projects across six states, with cumulative investments reaching Rs 1.6 lakh crore. The government says the initiative aligns with its vision of building a robust, self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem supporting sectors from defence to consumer electronics. Odisha, with two projects in Bhubaneswars Info Valley, is emerging as a major hub for semiconductor manufacturing.

Earlier in May, the Union Cabinet cleared Indias sixth semiconductor manufacturing unit in Jewar, Uttar Pradesh, to be set up near Jewar Airport in partnership between the HCL Group and Taiwanese electronics major Foxconn. This facility is projected to generate 2,000 jobs and will have a monthly capacity of 20,000 wafers and 36 million chips.

Of the other five approved plants, four are located in Gujarat: Tata Electronics-PSMC Semiconductor fab, CG Power-Renesas-Stars Microelectronics ATMP unit, Micron Technologys ATMP unit, and Kaynes Semicon ATMP unit. Additionally, the Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test (TSAT) Unit is in Assam. All six ongoing plants are making steady progress, and the country is expected to roll out its first domestically produced chip soon.

With the IIT Bhubaneswar research lab and SiCSems advanced fabrication facility, India is taking a major step towards becoming a global leader in the semiconductor space, reducing import dependency, and driving innovation in high-tech manufacturing.
Focusing on social needs to improve health outcomes is the function of the Staten Island Performing Provider System's Social Care Network. (Getty Images/Fajrul Islam)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A first-of-its-kind social support program is now available on Staten Island  but those who qualify shouldnt wait to grasp the opportunity, which is currently set to expire in March 2027.

The Social Care Network for Richmond County was formed to connect the 180,000 Staten Islanders who rely on Medicaid funding to reliable social care resources within the borough, with a goal of improving the often overlooked non-medical factors that impact health.

Dr. Joseph Conte, who leads the effort, said that any borough resident who receives Medicaid can enter the program by completing a short 12-question survey, which assesses the individuals needs in preparation to connect them to services.

Those needs can be as wide-ranging, from inability to make a rent payment, to in-home mold conditions, to immobility and lack of transportation to a doctors appointment.

I believe 70% of a persons health is not related to the time with a doctor, but what happens in their life, Conte said. Especially in the case of vulnerable populations ... domestic violence, lack of financial support, transportation. This doesnt add up to good health, and it doesnt improve the quality of New Yorkers lives.

With their social needs met, many residents health conditions can be avoided, allowing recipients the independence they need to lead successful lives, he said.

And, he added, when clients realize the services available through the social care network, its life-changing.

Reaching those in need

According to Conte, services target a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life needs, including: providing clothing, translation services, legal assistance, nutritious meals; solving housing difficulties; assisting with health literacy and social services; and addressing personal safety, among other offerings.

With its funding coming from a short-term state grant, The Social Care Network for Richmond County presents both an incredible opportunity for Staten Islanders and a challenge for the programs coordinators, who have 19 months to engage the 180,000 borough residents who stand to benefit.

The high number of Medicaid recipients on the Island presents a daunting goal, Conte admitted.

Thats a big number, he said. The screening process for registering to receive Social Care Network services is quite personal, and its often a challenge to get residents to fill out the form in the first place, he said.

Some clients have even initially feared that the program is a scam, given its comprehensive and life-changing nature. Using trusted messengers and meeting people where they are most comfortable make up key parts of the outreach effort.

We have to engage people in their communities, in their doctors office, in mosques, churches ... anywhere that there is some kind of level of trust, he said.

Conte added that 100 community health workers had been trained and deployed as part of the effort.

In addition to a presence at Richmond University Medical Center and Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, the organization partners with about 80 service organizations, including churches, food banks and those that serve the homeless and immigrant populations throughout Staten Island, Conte said.

Word of mouth will also be important, and network leaders say thats why they are ensuring that clients get the help they need. Niles French, senior director of grants and management for Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, said, If you have a good experience you tell your neighbor, if you have a bad experience you tell your neighborhood.

How the network came to be

Its not a handout, Conte stressed. Its a hand up. Its not only the food on the plate. Its the hope that you can put food on the plate of your family, your loved one."

Conte is the executive director of the Staten Island Performing Provider System, an organization founded in 2015. Also state-funded, the alliance of physicians, health-care providers and social service agencies was formed to reduce the number of avoidable emergency room visits each year.

Although the Staten Island Performing Provider Systems funding ended in 2020, the organization stayed intact and was selected to be the Social Care Network for Richmond Countys lead entity via a competitive application process in January 2025.

Both rounds of grant funding are efforts by the state to bring down Medicaid costs by improving overall health and reducing emergency room visits. In 2022, New York placed fifth in the nation in Medicaid spending per enrollee, Conte said.

The role of Staten Island nonprofits

As the lead entity, the Staten Island Performing Provider System coordinates the Social Care Network, and boosts funding for the community based organizations  largely Staten Island nonprofits  that will address the needs of program participants.

As an additional benefit of the program, this funding is growing the capacity of the nonprofits that service Staten Islanders.

There is a dual purpose, not only to lift up the people in the community, but also to lift up community-based organizations, Conte said.

Among the many organizations are Project Hospitality, which provides emergency housing services in addition to meeting needs for people who are food insecure, and Canvas Institute, which focuses on youth empowerment and supports an annual summit aimed at leading youth onto promising career tracks.

Bobby Digi, founder of the Canvas Institute, said the network is leveraging the combined resources of the boroughs service organizations for collective impact ... to try and bring a sustainable solution.

He also noted that Staten Island is unique because of the existing connections between organizations; Conte said those relationships, and the built-in structure of the Staten Island Performing Provider System, has allowed the program to get off to a fast start.

Compared to the average for similar programs around New York, he said the Staten Island network has already reached 350% more people.

To receive benefits

If you think the Social Care Network of Richmond County can help you, complete an online social care screening. The network may be reached by email at SIPPS-ContactUs@northwell.edu., or by phone (917) 830-1140.
Seaside Heights will enforce beach after-hour beach closures after a person drowned and six people were rescued from rip currents Monday, the mayor said. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

Seaside Heights plans to strictly enforce after-hours beach closures after a man drowned and several others needed to be rescued from a rip current Monday night, mayor Anthony Vaz said.

This is about trying to protect people, Vaz told NJ Advance Media. Were concerned about the weather causing the tides to be very high and very dangerous.

One person died and six people needed to be rescued after being caught in a rip current while swimming in the ocean after lifeguards left for the day.

Beaches in Seaside Heights typically open at 9 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. when lifeguards leave for the day, Vaz said.

Patrolmen from the Seaside Heights Police Department will now help close beaches when lifeguards leave and issue summonses to people who remain on the beach.

They will make arrests if they have to, Vaz said about enforcing the after-hours beach closures.

The borough is also going to pay close attention to currents and storm conditions that could whip up rip currents and make closing decisions based on the data, Vaz said.

On bad days, we might close the beach at 5 or 6, Vaz said. If its not a bad day, well close it at 7.

Patrolmen typically patrol the boardwalk during the evening hours after beaches close and will enforce the beach closures as they patrol the boardwalk, according to Vaz.

The borough also plans to install bilingual signs about the dangers of swimming in the ocean while lifeguards are off duty so that those who speak Spanish can be properly informed, Vaz said.

Monday was a red flag day and all beachgoers were allowed only up to their knees in the ocean, officials said.

The multiple rescues were the latest from a busy weekend at the Ocean County beach town where rescue crews made 12 saves on unguarded beaches, according to officials.
Megi Xhemali, a 37-year-old mother of two from New Springville, has owned and operated Argjiros Corner in Travis since 2023. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott R. Axelrod)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  When Megi Xhemali, a 37-year-old mother of two from New Springville, found herself at a crossroads after her divorce, she turned to what she knew best: cooking and catering.

That decision led her to open Argjiros Corner in Travis in January 2023, joining several other similar Albanian markets in the borough.

Xhemalis dedication to her market is evident in the long hours she spends there, likening it to a committed relationship and jokingly referring to the business as her boyfriend.

Specializing in Eastern European foods, snacks and meats, with what she confidently claims is the best veal and kebobs on the Island, the store also offers catering services, along with cooking classes aimed at building community connections.

Im very hands-on with trying to build bridges with the community, Xhemali, who emigrated from Albania in 1996, told the Advance/SILive.com. My base is Albanian, but Im here to serve you. Im at your call. Thank you for walking in here and giving me a chance.

Argjiro's Corner, an Albanian market in Travis, celebrated the unveiling of a restored mural and newly-crafted sculpture on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott R. Axelrod)

On Sunday afternoon, Xhemali served up baklava, coffee and bottled water courtesy of Albanian brand Lajthiza.

Welcoming family, friends, neighbors and customers, she was joined by her 10-year-old daughter, Nora, to pull back the curtain on a restored mural and unique sculpture which has been incorporated into the outer wall of the business.

Michael Colombo, the Democratic challenger vying to unseat Borough President Vito Fossella, stopped by the gathering and immediately declared: This is the best baklava on Staten Island.

Nora Xhemali, 10, enjoyed having her face painted as Argjiro's Corner in Travis celebrated the unveiling of a restored mural and a newly-crafted sculpture on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott R. Axelrod)

The mural of an American flag previously painted at the location by artist Scott LoBaido was given a fresh coat, and was expanded to include the Albanian flag and the phrase Besa Bese  an Albanian cultural concept meaning a pledge of honor or to keep ones word.

Next to the mural, a Sicilian artist spent three months crafting a sculpted replica of the legend of Rozafa, one of Albanias most famous tales.

A story of self-sacrifice, loyalty and the foundation of the Rozafa Castle in the Albanian city of Shkoder, the legend tells of three brothers building a castle, but its walls collapse each night. Theyre told it will only stand if one of their wives is sacrificed and built into the wall.

The youngest brothers wife, Rozafa, is chosen. She accepts her fate but asks that part of her body stay exposed so she can continue to care for her baby. After her sacrifice, the castle finally stands firm.

Argjiro's Corner, an Albanian market in Travis, celebrated the unveiling of a restored mural and newly-crafted sculpture on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott R. Axelrod)

Today, through Xhemalis own hard work and sacrifice, Argjiros Corner has gained a reputation for its meticulous organization and cleanliness.

It has also found a loyal following of customers searching for specific Eastern European products.

Xhemali takes pride in going the extra mile for her patrons, even hunting down hard-to-find items.

If youre in the neighborhood, Im here for you, she said. Whatever you want, Ill find it.

She has also made it a daily part of her routine to leave bread and other food items outside the market for anyone in need to be able to take.

Xhemali goes on to describe her business as a mom shop rather than a traditional mom-and-pop store, emphasizing the personal touch she brings to customer service.

Whats more comforting than mom? she asked. If you get that feeling when you come in here, like you feel taken care of, you want to come back.

Argjiros Corner is located at 4112 Victory Blvd. 718-494-3073.
Sean White, founder of Against Da Grain, sits in one of his barber chairs at the barber shop's new location. (Courtesy/aQut.) Staten Island Advance

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Its always good news when a business embraces a positive social and community impact.

Against Da Grain Project Inc., a nonprofit organization, and its affiliated barbershop, Against Da Grain  headed by community leader Sean White  officially opened its doors to a new Staten Island location as of July 12, marking a bold new chapter in Whites mission to serve, empower and uplift the community.

The new shop and headquarters for the affiliated nonprofits youth-centric mission is located at 56 Beach St. in Stapleton.

The exterior of Against Da Grain at its new location at 56 Beach St. in Stapleton. (Courtesy/aQut.) Staten Island Advance

White says the recent move wasnt just about changing addresses  but rather also about undergoing a strategic expansion into a more accessible and professionally designed space.

The interior of Against Da Grain at its new location. (Courtesy/aQut.) Staten Island Advance

The goal? To continue delivering trusted grooming services while deepening impact through holistic community outreach, White, the founder, and Yasmin Miller, the principal officer of the business, said collectively.

A mural replicating warriors painted by Chris (Poorrupert) hangs in the Against Da Grain barber shop. (Courtesy/aQut.) Staten Island Advance

Commitment to youth

White further explains that at the heart of Against Da Grain Project Inc.s work is the Legacy Leaders Lab, a year-round youth enrichment program that integrates mentorship, life skills, wellness and mental health support with culturally grounded approaches  creating opportunities for youth ages 8 to 18 and enabling them to lead with confidence and character.

Previous events, such as back-to-school giveaways, holiday drives or chess events  in their former location on Bay Street  mirrored the organizations longstanding presence and service within Staten Islands underserved communities.

White has always maintained that his shop helps keeps teens in a safe location and away from trouble on the streets.

In addition to making his barbershop a haven for the community, the West Brighton native also gives back to the local youth by offering free haircuts for kids before the start of school each September.

However, according to White, The organizations mission will always remain the same: to bridge the gap in a borough that often receives less recognition and fewer resources than others across New York City.

Participants smile during a community bike ride held the morning of the grand opening of Against da Grain, honoring the legacy of the original site while celebrating the journey forward. Community members and local leaders came together, reinforcing the significance of ADGs presence on Staten Island. In the center is Sean White, Against Da Grain founder, and Yazmin Miller, principal officer, second from left. (Courtesy/aQut.) Staten Island Advance

Over the years hes hosted myriad community events, served as a member of the task force 49 Strong to halt escalating gun violence by mentoring at-risk teens, and has sponsored numerous other community events  including the Families Against Violence All-Star Classic and the NYPD Officer Gerard Carter school bag and school supplies giveaway.

And he distributes hundreds of turkeys to families in need for Thanksgiving.

For his accomplishments, in 2019 White was honored with a Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Award, which he received in the Established Businessperson category.

The awards, which are presented by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Advance/SILive.com honor the memory of Louis R. Miller, a businessman and West Brighton resident who also was a community leader.

White, a father of one son and two daughters, also participates in various New York City Department of Youth and Community Development programs overseen by United Activities Unlimited, such as: the Summer Youth Employment Program; Work, Learn and Grow, and Fatherhood Matters.

And the constant opportunity to lend advice to his own employees has also paid back tenfold.

Each barbershop Ive opened on Staten Island has symbolized a different chapter in my purpose  from survival, to stability, to service," White went on to explain. 821 Castleton Ave.: humble beginnings and pure hustle, which is where I found my rhythm and built trust in the community. 61 Victory Blvd. This location was about building something out of nothing. 206 Bay St.: This location gave me space to grow and 56 Beach St.: This current location is about legacy  creating a space where culture, healing and community come together to inspire the next generation."

The interior of the new Against Da Grain. (Courtesy/Yasmin Miller) Staten Island Advance

The new location isnt just a building  its a statement of purpose, rooted in growth, legacy and lasting change, he added.

Our Staten Island community can look forward to mentorship-driven haircuts, youth leadership programs, mental health workshops, and creative safe spaces. What sets us apart is how we combine culture, conversation and care to go beyond services  building a community funded by the community, thats how change happens."

To learn more, view upcoming events, or support their work, visit Againstdagrainsi.com, the organizations official website.
If youve used a grocery delivery service, you know how convenient it can be. So, if youre looking for a new delivery service to make getting dinner on the table seamless, Shipt might be the way to go. This one offers same-day delivery and you can even watch your delivery in real-time with the app. This service is so versatile that it will deliver everything from snacks to electronics.

Shipt currently offers two plans. The annual membership costs $99 and includes a free 14-day trial, while the monthly plan is priced at $10.99 and also comes with a free 14-day trial. With stores like 7-Eleven, CVS, Walgreens, Petco, Lowes, and more, wed recommend looking into Shipt today.

More membership deals:

Walmart is famous for its Rollback Deals, Flash Sales, and finding your favorite products at the lowest prices. By signing up for a Walmart+ account, you can reap benefits far beyond the bargain basement prices. Youll even get a free trial of the service for 30 days before you actually commit.

This membership includes free delivery within 24 hours, fast delivery within three hours, and express delivery within one hour. Youll receive free shipping on every purchase, and can even save on streaming services, get deliveries from the pharmacy, and do returns from the comfort of your home for only $12.95 a month. If youre a frequent Walmart shopper, wed suggest investing in this membership plan today.
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Ken Martin, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, speaks during a news conference in Illinois on Aug. 5.

Democratic lawmakers from Texas say theyre considering their options amid a report they could return to the state as soon as this weekend, a move that may end a standoff in which more than 50 state representatives left in a bid to block controversial new congressional maps backed by President Donald Trump.

While the Democrats vowed to stay out of Texas long enough to prevent a vote during a special session of the state legislature, Republican Governor Greg Abbott has pledged to call session after session to pass the redistricting proposal.

Most Read from Bloomberg

That complicates efforts for the Democrats to stop the new maps, which could give the GOP five new Republican-leaning US House districts, strengthening their hold on Congress ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Ken Martin, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, speaks during a news conference in Illinois on Aug. 5.Photographer: Audrey Richardson/Bloomberg

ABC News reported Tuesday that the lawmakers are planning to return to Austin as soon as this weekend, citing multiple unnamed sources. The Texas state House Democratic caucus said in a post on social media that they were meeting and still assessing their strategies going forward, and declined further comment.

The Texas mapping duel has erupted into a national controversy as Republicans seek to protect their narrow majority in the US House of Representatives. While states across the country usually adjust district lines every 10 years to reflect population changes, Trump has pushed state lawmakers to redraw the maps now in a way that could add as many as five Republican-leaning House seats.

California and New York Democrats have threatened to rewrite their own maps in a way that would risk Republican seats in those states, should Texas Republicans force through new district lines. Other Republican-controlled states, including Florida, Indiana, and Missouri, are similarly eyeing redistricting to add seats where possible. Californias Governor Gavin Newsom said this week that Democrats in his state would back down from redistricting if Trump told Republican leaders to halt their plans.

You are playing with fire, risking the destabilization of our democracy, while knowing that California can neutralize any gains you hope to make, Newsom wrote to the president on Monday.

Texas state House Democrats left the state in early August in a bid to stall the bill, scattering from Illinois to New York and depriving the Texas House of Representatives of the minimum number of lawmakers present to hold a vote  a tactic known as a quorum break. Absent members have racked up fines of $500 per day, a penalty established after Democrats similarly broke quorum in 2021.
The inexorable rise of ultra-cheap ecommerce giants Shein, Temu and AliExpress has made many enemies among retailers worldwide, with rock-bottom prices and low free shipping thresholds crippling many local stores and making marketplaces virtually redundant.

Theyve made themselves enemies of $US2.4 trillion ($3.7 trillion) giant Amazon, too  except Amazon has gone on the offence by launching its own version of Temu called Amazon Haul.

All products offered through Haul will have to comply with Amazon policies. Credit: Amazon Australia

From Thursday, Australians will be able to shop for hundreds of thousands of items across fashion, beauty, homewares and cookware, pet supplies and other accessories through the Amazon app for less than $25.

The US multinational is hoping to differentiate Haul by billing it as a convenient and trusted alternative to the cheap Chinese-operated retailers.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE:LLY), accusing the pharmaceutical giant of bribing medical providers to promote its most profitable drugs, including the widely used GLP-1 medications Mounjaro and Zepbound for diabetes and weight loss.

Paxton alleges the companys conduct violated state fraud prevention laws and defrauded taxpayers through improper Medicaid claims.

According to the complaint, Eli Lilly provided illegal incentives to healthcare providers in Texas, such as free nurses and reimbursement support services, to steer prescriptions toward its products.

Also Read: Eli Lillys Orforglipron Data Is Not Disastrous: Analyst

These inducements allegedly compromised medical decision-making and resulted in millions of dollars in Medicaid claims for prescriptions tainted by unlawful marketing practices.

The lawsuit filed on Tuesday asserts that Lillys actions led pharmacies, pharmacy benefit managers, and other intermediaries to submit claims that violated Texas Medicaid policy.

As a result, the states Medicaid program allegedly disbursed millions of dollars in unauthorized reimbursements under the Texas Health Care Program Fraud Prevention Act.

In his statement, Paxton accused the company of putting corporate greed over peoples health by manipulating the healthcare system to boost profits at taxpayer expense.

The allegations span a wide range of Lillys prescription products, from cancer and migraine treatments to diabetes and obesity drugs.

Medications cited in the lawsuit include Alimta, Basaglar, Ebglyss, Emgality, Forteo, Humalog, Humulin, Jaypirca, Mounjaro, Retevmo, Rezvoglar, Taltz, Verzenio, and Zepbound.

Paxton claims these products were promoted through quid pro quo arrangements that improperly influenced prescribing patterns.

In October 2024, Paxton filed a lawsuit against several major insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), alleging a conspiracy to inflate insulin prices.

The lawsuit targeted pharmaceutical companies such as Eli Lilly and PBMs, accusing them of using an unlawful scheme to raise insulin prices.

According to the lawsuit, insulin manufacturers artificially raised the prices of their drugs while paying PBMs a significant, undisclosed portion in return for preferred placement in PBM offerings.

Recently, a federal appeals court revived a proposed class action accusing four major drugmakers, including Eli Lilly, of conspiring to restrict a government-mandated drug discount program, allegedly driving up costs for safety-net hospitals and clinics serving low-income patients.
As more international flights can be done with narrow-body, single-aisle planes, the logistics of food service change. On some flights, passengers are encouraged to buy food and drink from back-of-seat menus, prompting continual pressing of the call bell. With the beverage cart occupying a lone aisle, it is difficult for attendants to reach impatient customers forward or aft of the trolley. The same cart on a single-aisle plane can also prevent passengers from getting to the lavatory, creating another frustration. Theres a limited amount of space on board, and if everyone behaves in a way where they think theyre having a Sunday session, then its just chaos, said the attendant. While incidents of unruly passengers can occur on any flight, services to and from Bali have been singled out as a source of problems.

Anywhere there are bogans basically flying for a cheap holiday is where youll encounter the problems, said the flight attendant. Passengers on their way to a beach getaway or returning from one can often have a frame of mind that encourages such acting out. The problem is that they know we cant chuck them out, said the attendant. In a licensed venue, they would just get thrown out. We cant do that. We have to manage the situation in the air. Its not just drunken boorishness. In cases compiled by the Transport Workers Union, one flight was diverted because of a passengers erratic behaviour from a drug episode. Another attendant was pushed into a row of seats, sworn at and fobbed off when giving the safety briefing. A Queensland man charged after an assault on plane at Perth Airport. Credit: AFP

The flight attendant with decades of experience explained: People know when theyre on board that they can kind of get away with probably a bit worse than what they would in a normal pub or a normal venue. Loading Airlines and crew typically seek to de-escalate the situation with a disruptive passenger. Flight crews have comprehensive training for in-flight scenarios, including those related to on-board security. Beyond cutting off the passengers supply of alcohol, the next move is to get the police involved on the ground if the passengers behaviour has progressed to that point.

That makes for a tense flight as flight crews attempt to manage and de-escalate a volatile situation. The planes captain is kept up to date on the unfolding situation. Loading Crews at Jetstar can communicate directly with the airlines operations centre to work out a plan of action. A spokesperson for the airline said its crews were highly trained to de-escalate disruptive behaviour. Nevertheless, there may be times when a stronger intervention is needed, including diverting the aircraft for the safety of everyone on board and requesting assistance from police. Flight crews are ready and willing to do that, the spokesperson said, because well always prioritise the safety of our crew and our customers.

Aviation expert Keith Tonkin said: The pilots are first and foremost flying the aircraft and ensuring that it continues as planned but also keeping very aware of the situation in the cabin and making contingency plans in case that situation takes a turn for the worse or for some reason they need to divert. So part of your continuous planning when youre flying is to know where youre going next for whatever reason, whether its a medical emergency or to deal with that sort of in-flight situation, and to be able to divert. TWU national secretary Michael Kaine called cabin crew aviations first responders. Every day, they deal with aggressive passengers, medical emergencies and other stressful scenarios, and increasingly they dont have enough experienced staff to do it, said Kaine. The union would like to see a Safe and Secure Skies Commission to ensure aviation staffing decisions are made in the public interest.

AFP superintendent (national aviation) Amanda Glover said: The AFP has zero tolerance for any form of anti-social or dangerous behaviour directed at travellers, workers and law enforcement members in the aviation environment. The AFP is committed to protecting the travelling public and officers will not hesitate to act when safety at the airports or on planes is threatened by disruptive or violent behaviour. Legal repercussions are just part of the picture; the airlines themselves can  and sometimes do  ban quarrelsome customers from flying. A 2021 voluntary code of practice by the airlines on passenger behaviour said that in addition to preventing a customer to board a plane, the airlines could seek to hold passengers who are offensive or disruptive accountable for their behaviour, including recouping costs for diversions and damage to the aircraft and imposing bans on future travel.

Disruptive behaviour appears to be part of a global trend. Loading International Air Transport Association figures show that based on 53,538 incident reports from more than 60 operators globally, there was one incident for every 395 flights in 2024 versus one incident for every 405 flights in 2023. Non-compliance with crew instruction was the most frequent descriptor, IATA said. However, the number of reports mentioning verbally and physically abusive behaviours also increased in 2024. Being in the air and at close quarters, unruly passengers create tension and fear for others onboard.

While [cabin crew] are dealing with a particular passenger, theyre being diverted away from keeping an eye on what else is going on in and providing that service. Loading For cooped-up passengers, disruptions can influence the experience of the entire cabin. It takes a lot of confidence away from the other travellers about how safe and how enjoyable the flights going to be, said Tonkin. For frontline crew, disruptions are a source of concern. A recent survey of about 400 cabin crew by the Transport Workers Union found that for almost three quarters (73 per cent), their safety at work has been compromised by customer abuse/anger while 77 per cent had dealt with passengers presenting risks to the public.
US President Donald Trumps trade war was meant to rebalance global power in the United States favour. Instead, China is playing the long game, enduring short-term economic pain to shape any eventual deal to its advantage.

The strategy appears to be working  for now. On Monday, Washington granted Beijing another 90-day reprieve, extending a pause on tariffs through November 10. China announced it would do the same. Markets welcomed the move, which offered some relief after months of tension. The delay will give Chinese President Xi Jinpings policymakers more time to plan their next move.

Time is on Xi Jinpings side. Credit: AP

Time is Xis ally. So far, the clearest outcome of each round of talks has been a commitment to meet again. Despite Trumps insistence that China has taken significant steps to improve their trade relationship, Beijing has made no consequential concessions on any of his key concerns. (China has offered some small compromises, none on the scale of American demands.)

The extension has come at a delicate time for Chinas economy, which is plagued by sluggish domestic demand and a slowdown in the property sector. Bloomberg Economics says that it is among the few major nations without a clear timeline or terms for a deal, while others have struck agreements to secure lower tariffs. Even with this reprieve, it notes, Beijing faces average US tariffs of 40 per cent  almost 25 percentage points above the global average.
Launching  and losing  a defamation action is a matter only for those with the deepest pockets.

Just ask disgraced orthopaedic surgeon Munjed Al Muderis, whose lawsuit against this masthead and 60 Minutes over a series of reports revealing negligent operations ended with a damning loss in the Federal Court last week.

Dr Munjed Al Muderis (centre), with barrister Sue Chrysanthou, SC (left), and his partner Claudia Roberts. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos

After a marathon trial spanning years, Justice Wendy Abraham found Al Muderis was dishonest and callous and prioritised fame, money and numbers above vulnerable patients. She also ruled that Nine, owner of this masthead, had established both truth and public interest defences, in a landmark victory for journalism.

Al Muderis has vowed to appeal, but as it stands, he remains on the hook for Nines legal costs. All up, an estimated $19 million has been spent on the case by both sides, most of which the surgeon will have to cough up, pending Abrahams final order on costs.
Celebrated filmmaker and visual artist Apichatpong Weerasethakul was walking in the mountains while locked down in northern Thailand during the pandemic when he came to a profound realisation.

His work, including acclaimed films that have won the coveted Palme dOr and three other prizes at Cannes, was all meaningless.

In cinemas, you just become zombies: Apichatpong Weerasethakul in his installation at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Credit: Edwina Pickles

I appreciated what surrounded me instead of what I created, Weerasethakul says. Those trees and the immensity of nature.

The gently spoken, monkish director, best known for such enigmatic dreamlike fantasies as Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives, Cemetery of Splendour and the English-language Memoria, wondered why he was creating art and whether his creations were just products rather than the results of an artistic journey.
Three years after taking on the moniker Ethel Cain, she released her first LP Preachers Daughter , a stunning concept album that fleshed out her alias backstory. Set in 1991, 10 years after the death of the fictional Cains preacher father, it invoked themes of intergenerational trauma, sexual violence and religious repression and ended with Cain being murdered, then cannibalised by her abusive boyfriend.

The 27-year-olds legal name is Hayden Silas Anhedonia, a title she adopted at 20 when she came out as trans. She grew up in Tallahassee, Florida, the daughter of a deacon, sang in the church choir and was homeschooled until she left home at 18. After falling in and out of hard drugs and depression, she became a nail technician and began making music in her spare time, inspired by her oppressive Southern Baptist upbringing, horror movies and gothic Americana.

Musically, it landed somewhere between Cains idols Florence + the Machine and Lana Del Rey, only stranger and more tortured. The album scored Cain an obsessive following thats grown too big to be called cult, recently shaken by the revelation of racist and unsavory tweets dredged up from when Cain was 19.

Cain addressed the controversy in a two-page Google Doc, taking accountability for what she says were the actions of a traumatised, attention-seeking teenager. As I move forward through my life, I aim to use my platform for good, for change, and for progress, she said, words backed by her outspokenness on social media that has included criticism of both Biden and Trump and support for Palestine. The bulk of her fan base seems to have accepted her apology.

Loading

Preachers Daughter was the first in a trilogy of albums that Cain plans to accompany with a book series and film. Her following release, the claustrophobic drone EP Perverts, arrived as a curveball just a few months ago. Willoughby Tucker, Ill Always Love You is a prequel to Preachers Daughter, set five years earlier in 1986, following Cains teenage breakup with her first love, the titular Tucker. Less varied in mood and sound than Preachers Daughter, Willoughby Tucker might be somehow even more captivating.

The production is largely spare, spectral even. Opening track Janie is little more than guitar echo and Cains heavenly, haunting vocals; A Knock On The Door is built around pastoral acoustic fingerpicking; instrumentals Willoughbys Theme and Willoughbys Interlude transition from delicate piano into panoramic reverb as dense and sparkling as a starry night.
The great white shark, the coastal stingaree  an endangered ray found only South Australia  and the pygmy thornback skate are among the species most at risk from South Australias devastating algal bloom and need immediate conservation intervention, scientists warn.

Visiting South Australia on Wednesday, federal Environment Minister Murray Watt announced he would fast-track an expert assessment to determine if flora and fauna affected by the bloom needed to be added to the threatened species list.

Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt during a visit in July to the area struck by the algal bloom. Credit: AAP

We can leave no stone unturned to understand the impact of this on local marine life, so we can begin investing in the appropriate strategies to bring these important animals back to healthy numbers, Watt said.

Thats why Ive tasked the Threatened Species Scientific Committee with urgently investigating the impact of the bloom on local marine life.
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The Weekly Special Eating outWhats on The Weekly Special: New-school pop-up at cult wine bar, and a legendary Scot visits WA Max Veenhuyzen August 13, 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 Glenn McCue and his Taiwanese wife Li Ping first met daughter Isabel via ultrasound, doctors said Isabel was the size of a jujube. Which is how the name of McCues pop-up  Jujube Dining  was established, ditto its focus on Taiwanese flavours. The other half of Jujubes identity, meanwhile, is tied to Irish-born McCues experience cooking Mediterranean flavours at kitchens across Perth. The result is, to paraphrase McCue, food thats Taiwanese leaning with a lot of Italian and Mediterranean influences or vice versa. Think whipped white beans topped with smashed cucumbers seasoned with a Sichuan and doubanjiang (fermented tofu) oil, finished with coriander and cheese from Gingin goats milk producer, The Local Goat.

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I really want to get the word out about Taiwanese food, even if none of my dishes are traditional, says McCue. You can catch McCue this week at Beaconsfield Wine Bar where hell be cooking Thursday till Sunday (August 14 to 17). Besk in West Leederville is celebrating its sixth birthday. Birthday celebrations, Besk-style Since opening in 2019, West Leederville tavern and bottle shop Besk has prided itself on offering guests top-shelf drinks.

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So when it comes time to mark Besks sixth birthday, its understandable that producers would be front and centre. This Saturday (August 16) between 11am and 1pm, team Besk is inviting some of its favourite beer, wine and spirit makers to Railway Parade for a free  free!  tasting. In total, more than 100 products will be available for sampling with names such as Chouette, Ochota Barrels, Saison Aperitifs and Found Brewing in attendance. A pop-up West African fine-diner returns for round two When Brian Cole, the Sierra Leone-born head chef of Hearth at the Ritz-Carlton Perth, announced he was staging a West African pop-up at Highgates Twenty Seats, eaters quickly snapped up tickets to his two July dinners.

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Buoyed by this enthusiastic response as well as a growing local interest in African flavours, Cole will once again be popping up at Twenty Seats with every Monday in September set aside for Cole to reimagine dishes and flavours from his homeland. Keep an eye out on Twenty Seats booking page for tickets to drop. Related Article Margaret River pop-up that served Andy Hearnden one of most interesting meals of his life tours Australia Il Locale introduces $22 pricing on all its pizzas Complicated pizza loyalty programs, inflated margins and premium pizza taxes: just three of the things that Il Locale founder Mat Bourget says no to, as well as three reasons why Bourget has adopted $22 flat-rate pricing on every pizza at every one of his six Il Locale outposts, every day of the week.

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Theres no guessing, no bait-and-switch and no awkward moment deciding if you can afford the good one, says Bourget who is preparing to start Il Locales national roll-out. You walk in, order whatever you want, and walk out with change from a fifty. Thats value people remember. The $22 pricing is only available when ordering direct for pick-up or delivery and applies to every Il Locale sourdough pizza, from a classic margherita to something with more exxy ingredients. Scotch whisky producer Ardberg is teaming up with Foxtrot Unicorn for one night only. Foxtrot Unicorn invites you to a night with Ardbeg

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Ardbeg, one of the most well-known producers from the Islay region in Scotland, is coming to underground basement watering hole Foxtrot Unicorn  WAs sole Ardbeg Embassy venue  for one night only. The good times take place on Thursday August 21 and features some of the rarest and most idiosyncratic Ardbeg bottlings that are usually only offered to Ardbeg Embassy members. These hard-to-find whiskies will be served alongside a menu of share plates prepared by young gun Blaze Young and guests will also enjoy discounted prices on bottles purchased on the night. Tickets are $260 per person and available online.

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Boomers. They had it easy, right? They got in while prices were cheap, went to university free, got to ride the wave of growth that many asset classes saw and now get to sit back and say you just have to work harder.

Thats one narrative for sure  but not one that is particularly productive.

Illustration by Simon Letch

Recently, I had a concerned mother of adult children email me. She wants to see her kids flourish financially, but they seem uninspired by the hand theyve been dealt by previous generations.

So today, as a Millennial, Im weighing in.
We can confirm we have asked Macquarie University Hospital, the operator of the hospital, to review and investigate the courts findings, including taking all steps as necessary with the regulators who play the key role in setting standards and policies that all registered health practitioners must meet. Macquarie University Hospital and Clinic. Credit: iStock Macquarie University Hospital confirmed that Al Muderis still held positions as an accredited practitioner with the hospital and an honorary clinical professor title with Macquarie University. He does most of his osseointegration work at the Limb Reconstruction Centre at the hospital. All affiliations with the hospital are strictly related to defined clinical responsibilities undertaken at the hospital, and within governance and credentialing framework, the spokesperson said. This includes sitting on any committees, which often have fixed terms. The hospital notes it has no current complaints about the matters raised in the Federal Court ruling, nor have any issues been raised directly with us by appropriate regulators.

The hospital continues to deliver safe, high-quality care, attract talented staff, and meet its regulatory obligations. Our priority is  and will remain  delivering safe, high-quality care for every patient. Loading Macquarie University Hospital confirmed that it has received Medibanks correspondence and welcomed the constructive dialogue. It also distanced itself from Al Muderis practice. Noting the comprehensive nature of the Federal Courts recent judgment, the hospitals understanding is that many of the actions referenced in it relate to an individuals private practice, which operates independently of the hospital, it said. We believe it is important to distinguish between activities undertaken in a private practice setting and those carried out at the hospital, and which remains committed to providing the highest standards of patient care at all times.

It said it worked closely with regulators and any formal investigations, if warranted, would be carried out with respect for due process and fairness. Through lawyers, Al Muderis said he had worked at Macquarie University Hospital since 2010 and claimed patient complaints against his practice had been dismissed. He has been cleared of any wrongdoing by all relevant authorities, including AHPRA [Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency] and the Medical Council of NSW, and there are no active complaints or investigations against him that he is aware of, Al Muderis lawyers said. He is of the view that the standard of clinical governance at Macquarie is one of the highest in the world  which he is proud to be part of. Al Muderis also holds positions at several other hospitals, including East Sydney Private Hospital since November 2020.

The Woolloomooloo-based hospital said it could not comment on individual matters but was committed to ensuring safe, high-quality, patient-centred care. Dr Munjed Al Muderis outside court in September last year. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos We are aware of the case and are currently investigating the matter and will follow our established internal processes, ensuring due process and fairness, East Sydney Private Hospital said. The Health Care Complaints Commission, responsible for investigating practitioners in NSW, did not respond to questions about the judgment. A commission spokesperson said it took all complaints seriously and had a duty to protect the public but would not comment on individual complaints or regulatory outcomes.

The Federal Courts findings  are of interest to the commission. We will review these findings and determine whether they warrant further consideration or action, the commission spokesperson said. National healthcare regulator AHPRA, which manages guidelines for all healthcare practitioners, also did not answer detailed questions but said it was considering the 800-page decision as part of its standard processes. Loading Justice Wendy Abraham, in her judgment, found this masthead and 60 Minutes had reasonably criticised AHPRA for its silence on Al Muderis given it is the nations peak health regulator. Nor do I accept, given AHPRAs role and the issues raised with them, that the journalists were required to accept that AHPRA could not relevantly comment, Abraham found.

The AHPRA spokesperson did not respond directly to this finding but said it would consider the judgment and any findings relevant to its role providing guidance to medical practitioners about advertising. This masthead revealed on Wednesday that Amnesty International and Red Cross Australia denied Dr Al Muderis was an ambassador for the charities, despite these claims being made in his affidavit and in court by his barrister, Sue Chrysanthou, SC. Other smaller charities said his involvement was limited and historical. Al Muderis denied any deliberate misrepresentation about his charity associations. Charlotte Grieves book Duty To Warn will be available in February. Pre-order here.
Feature: Relentless hardships erode hopes of displaced Gazans for peace

Xinhua) 09:56, August 13, 2025

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GAZA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Under the scorching summer sun in the al-Rimal neighborhood of Gaza City, 52-year-old Waheed Ismail Baroud stood amidst a bustling marketplace, searching through stalls laden with items beyond his means.

Baroud, originally from northern Gaza, has been displaced for months after his home was destroyed in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

"Our life here is harder than anything I have read about in modern history," Baroud told Xinhua. "We live with no money, no food security, no safety. The neighborhoods are cut off from each other, houses are gone, and every day from sunrise to sunset we chase after the basics, such as food and water."

Although he noticed that prices have recently decreased as more goods enter Gaza, the real challenge, he said, is the lack of cash. "As the saying goes, 'A camel for a penny, but who has a penny?' Prices may seem more reasonable, but we simply don't have the money to buy," he lamented.

In another part of Gaza City, Sief al-Din Abu Ramadan, head of the Palestinian Families Leaders (Mukhtars) Association, spends his days mediating disputes between displaced families.

"I have four daughters and a son, and like everyone else here, we live in misery, hunger, poverty, destruction," he told Xinhua.

He criticized the way some merchants take advantage of the crisis. "The price of a kilogram of flour is 20 shekels, but if you pay through the mobile banking app, since banks are closed and cash is rare, sellers want 40 shekels. That's a 100 percent profit at our expense," he said.

Abu Ramadan believes there is no longer a justification for the conflict to continue. "Neither Israel nor Hamas has a goal left worth pursuing in this destruction," he said. "My message is simple: Stop starving us, stop the bloodshed, stop this war in any way possible."

However, while indirect talks for a ceasefire deal have taken place through intermediaries, no comprehensive agreement has been reached. Humanitarian organizations warn that without a truce, conditions in Gaza will continue to deteriorate.

In a makeshift tent in central Gaza City, 41-year-old Saad al-Masri from Beit Lahia lives with his wife and four children. The summer heat turns their shelter into an oven during the day.

"We have no food, no clean water, no safe place," al-Masri said. "Our day is spent searching for water and food. Prices are still too high for people like us with little or no income. The war has crushed everything."

Amid the ongoing hardships and tough times, al-Masri's faith in the promise of peace is starting to waver.

"This is an eternal conflict," he said, his voice heavy with exhaustion. "But we plead with everyone -- negotiators, Arab and foreign governments -- to end this war. We are a broken people, and we want to live in peace like the rest of the world."

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Tents for displaced Palestinians are seen near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Children sit in front of a tent for displaced Palestinians near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People walk past tents for displaced Palestinians near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People pass tents for displaced Palestinians near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People walk past tents for displaced Palestinians near a beach in Gaza City, on Aug. 10, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
By Manya Saini

(Reuters) -Stock and crypto trading platform eToro's CEO said on Tuesday that retail investors seized opportunities to buy stocks during the April market dip caused by tariffs, after the fintech firm exceeded second-quarter profit estimates.

Markets saw sharp swings after U.S. President Donald Trump announced new tariffs early in the quarter, yet analysts observed that individual investors were not deterred by the volatility and quickly sought opportunities to "buy the dip."

"We saw a lot of our retail investors jumping in to scoop opportunities with Google, Nvidia and Tesla," eToro CEO Yoni Assia said in an interview with Reuters, referring to the sharp slide in high-growth big tech stocks following April's tariff announcements.

"This reminds us of what we've seen in COVID, where institutional investors are pulling out of the markets and retail investors are taking that opportunity and investing."

Trading in stocks has since normalized, executives said, sending the company's shares down 8%. Analysts said the stock's slide reflected high expectations ahead of the results.

The company went public in May in a bumper U.S. initial public offering, with shares surging on their debut after pricing above the marketed range.

"Today's initial eToro excitement gave way to a touch of disappointment," said Michael Ashley Schulman, partner and CIO at Running Point Capital Advisors.

"Management admitted the April tariffshock uptick in trading activity faded by July, so the beat didn't come with a sustainably higher runrate."

CRYPTO OPPORTUNITIES

Financial technology companies have been expanding their crypto product portfolios as regulatory clarity emerges in the key U.S. market under the Trump administration.

EToro said crypto activity strengthened in July as bitcoin reached all-time highs, propelling several other tokens.

New-age fintech platforms have taken market share from established Wall Street firms by luring younger, tech-savvy investors.

"Regulators all around the world are also looking at what regulators in the U.S. are doing and saying," Assia said. "They're providing very sort of clear messaging, which is, crypto is here to stay."

He added that the company will eventually cater to more sophisticated users as its product expansion, including AI strategies, gathers pace, moving beyond its core retail trading roots.

Founded in 2007, eToro operates a trading platform that allows users to invest in stocks, cryptocurrencies and other assets while mirroring the strategies of top investors.
The Minns government faces a growing backlash against its powerful three-person housing authority that has fast-tracked the path to approval for more than 70,200 homes, as councils warn the wave of development will erode critical commercial precincts and strain infrastructure.

In the past seven months, the NSW Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) has sent 187 major residential proposals on a state significant development assessment process that bypasses local councils, leaving the governments planning department to scrutinise projects designed to boost housing.

Planning Minister Paul Scully said it was appropriate the government took a direct role in assessing large dwelling proposals given the size of the states housing challenge, and Sydneys position as the second most expensive city on the planet.

But opposition is mounting among councils, who say they have been sidelined while developers are rubbing their hands with glee.
A Merivale restaurant which describes itself as a little piece of the Middle East in Sydneys CBD has been accused of refusing entry to people in pro-Palestinian scarves in the hours after the Harbour Bridge protest.

Seven people told the Herald they were stopped from entering Jimmys Falafel, inside the hospitality giants George Street Ivy precinct, on August 3 unless they removed their keffiyehs, a Middle Eastern headscarf that has come to symbolise the pro-Palestinian movement abroad.

Jimmys Falafel, a Merivale-owned restaurant, sits on George Street in The Ivy precinct. Credit: Edwina Pickles

Merivale initially denied the allegations but later said a management decision to ban people carrying or displaying flags and placards inside the venue was imposed between 3.55pm and 4.15pm for the safety of their employees, after many instances of rogue members of the public walking past the Ivy venues on George Street yelling obscenities and violent rhetoric into our venues.

Merivale footage without audio seen by the Herald showed two people yelling towards the restaurant from the footpath, with another person raising two middle fingers. According to Merivale, passers-by shouted death to the IDF, death to all Zionist pigs, and f---ing Zionist pigs and scum towards Jimmys.
Church Street in Parramatta is known for being the go-to spot for Eels fans before games kick off, its wide range of eateries and, now, the light rail. But on the south side of the street, next to Westfield Parramatta, the precinct is quiet.

At the moment, its obviously looking a little bit more tired with less restaurants and shopping opportunities, Parramatta Labor Councillor Michael Ng said.

A new proposal from the City of Parramatta Council is hoping to change that.

At a meeting on Monday night, the council supported a motion, moved by Ng, to explore developing a Chinatown precinct along Church Street, between Fitzwilliam and Campbell streets. The next step is community consultation.
Mei Lin, 85, still feels embarrassed about falling victim to the scam, given that she lives independently and doesnt have any major health concerns. She doesnt like to talk about it, and has never revealed to her family what was going through her mind when she handed over about $200,000 in cash and jewellery. But the statement she gave to police describes a textbook example of how the theatrical fraud unfolds. On January 11, 2018, Mei Lin was mailing documents at a post box on Henley Road in Homebush West when she was approached by a middle-aged Asian woman in a panic, who said she was looking for a special herb that she needed to save her injured daughter, who wouldnt stop bleeding. CCTV footage from Blacktown shows a 73-year-old woman (not Mei Lin) being scammed by three unidentified women. Credit: NSW Police A second woman, pretending to overhear, joined the conversation to say that she knew a healer who could help. Engaging in small talk, she told Mei Lin she was also Chinese Malaysian. The two women then placed their hands on Mei Lins shoulders and guided her down a quieter street, where a man they said knew the healer joined the group.

After sending the first woman away to retrieve her money for a blessing, the man turned his attention to Mei Lin, sharing his concern that her daughter would succumb to a mysterious illness if her belongings werent blessed. Mei Lin was curious because the man seemed to know details about his daughters life. The second woman escorted Mei Lin to her house and waited outside while she filled a bag with $196,000 worth of sentimental jewellery, including her most prized possession  a 1.87-carat diamond ring she bought back home in Malaysia in the 1970s. The pair then travelled to Strathfield Plaza, where Mei Lin withdrew $5000, her daily cash limit, from the Commonwealth Bank branch inside and added it to her bag while the woman waited nearby. Mei Lins scammers were never apprehended. Credit: Flavio Brancaleone What happens next still confuses Mei Lin. Having returned to the man at Henley Road, she cant recall at what point she handed over her bag, but suddenly, it was being returned to her with the instruction to take this home and put it next to your bed for three months.

Dont touch it, she was told. Mei Lin began to feel suspicious as she drove away. As soon as she arrived home, she opened the bag and found a bottle of water and two candles. After confiding in her brother-in-law, Mei Lin reported the scam to the police, but the investigation didnt progress very far. CCTV was never recovered, and no arrests were made. Frustrated by the lack of action and in disbelief that Mei Lin could have been scammed so easily, Chan decided to advocate to the police on her behalf. Chan says Mei Lin doesnt believe in spiritual blessings, and while she is generous with her family, she is otherwise conservative with her money. Theres no way this would have happened but for the fact that they had used the drug and made her comply. Its just all nonsense, she says.

After asking her law enforcement contacts about scopolamine, Chan became convinced it explained Mei Lins scam. Loading They come next to you, and they just blow a little bit at you, and you dont even realise theyve blown a little bit of a drug at you, and just enough to make you really compliant, so youre hypnotised. Chans not alone in believing a loved one was drugged using scopolamine during the scam. Tuyet van Huynh, the daughter of a UK victim, told the BBC in 2024 that CCTV from her mothers London scam showed she followed every instruction to the point where she was like a zombie.

Van Huynh believes a drug like scopolamine must have been used because, like Mei Lin, her mother is not superstitious or spiritual and she complied unquestioningly. Scopolamine, sometimes called devils breath in criminal contexts, is a highly potent tropane alkaloid in the nightshade family. Derived from nature, the drug can be easily extracted from Brugmansia flowers, also known as angels trumpets, that grow in temperate climates around the world. Brugmansia, or angels trumpets. Credit: Robin Powell Highly biologically active, scopolamine is best known for its use in common medications to prevent motion sickness, such as Kwells and TravaCalm, but its psychoactive properties have also seen it taken recreationally. The use of scopolamine in crime, particularly thefts, has been well documented in Latin America, particularly Colombia, while reports are increasing in Europe.

It causes a drug-induced delirium, but it also causes amnesia, explains ANU Associate Professor David Caldicott, an emergency medicine clinician who also researches drug-facilitated crime. Loading If you were to somehow get that inside an elderly individual, who knows what you could suggest in terms of making them part ways with their valuables. These are incredibly potent drugs. Powdered scopolamine is tasteless and odourless and, according to a 2013 study, can be absorbed via inhalation and place a victim under the drugs effects within minutes. Detection by authorities is made more difficult by the rapid elimination of scopolamine from the body. It can only be detected within 24 hours of its ingestion.

Caldicott says that only a very small dose would be needed to affect an elderly woman. The use of scopolamine in Chinese blessing scams hasnt been established by law enforcement in any jurisdiction. In a statement, NSW Police said that while investigations continue, there is no evidence or inquiries being made into the use of drugs to facilitate the scams. Two people were charged in connection with 85 instances of the scam around Sydney since July 2023. Credit: NSW Police In April this year, NSW Polices North West Metropolitan Region launched Strike Force Sentinel to co-ordinate its response after a surge in reported blessing scams around the city, including in the Ryde, Burwood, Parramatta and Hornsby areas. In July, NSW Police charged two Chinese nationals and issued arrest warrants for seven others in connection with 85 reported scams over two years that resulted in more than $3 million stolen. They said they had counted at least 50 alleged scammers, 25 of whom had been identified.

The ongoing probe is limited to cases from July 2023 onwards. Cases reported before 2023, such as Mei Lins, as well as the many that have gone unreported, undoubtedly place the true number of Sydney victims in the hundreds. Chan questions why there hasnt been a more organised effort sooner, given the global nature of the fraud and that victims such as Mei Lin were being targeted long before 2023. Its not clear if the same syndicate is responsible for Mei Lins scam. Mei Lins scam was investigated by the Auburn Police Area Command, but Chan believes local police arent equipped to tackle a sophisticated international scam. The way our police system works, with a lack of co-ordination, means even if weve captured this bunch of people, another bunch of people might be operating in the very next area, she says. In July, NSW Police released images of seven people they are looking for in relation to the scam. Credit: NSW Police

Law enforcement around the world has struggled to apprehend the scammers, who frequently fly in and out of the country, usually on tourist visas. In a July press conference, Detective Superintendent Guy Magee described the scammers as FIFO criminals. Theyre organised criminals that fly in for short periods of time, on up to 20 occasions over two years, and fly out, he said. Magee also commented on the low reporting rates associated with scam victims, as well as the Chinese community. Anecdotally, I think the offending is probably at least double what we think, he said.
Former A-League club Western Uniteds significant financial strain led a player to commit betting fraud by recklessly tackling the opposition to receive yellow cards, his lawyer claims.

Ex-midfielder Riku Danzaki pleaded guilty to seven charges at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday over a betting fraud he committed with a friend who played in an amateur soccer club.

Former Western United player Riku Danzaki. Credit: AAP

The fraud netted the 25-year-old about $16,000 across three games between April and May and his co-accused - Bayside Argonauts striker Yuta Hirayama - received about $5200.

Danzaki admitted to deliberately receiving yellow cards for reckless tackles on opposition players, including games against Sydney Football Club on April 27 and Adelaide United on May 9.
The AUKUS agreement was conceived chiefly to thwart Chinas territorial and defence ambitions in our larger region. Knowing that the future of AUKUS is being reconsidered by the Trump administration and that Trump is capricious and often punitive in the way he applies tariffs against those who dont dance to his tune, Australia under Albanese is nevertheless steadfastly building on a more accommodating approach towards China. The prime ministers reasoning is simple: China underpins our economy and it pays not to overtly antagonise it. Meanwhile, America remains fixated on viewing China as its great economic competitor and geopolitical rival.

As is its way, rather than galloping in this direction, the government is crab-walking. Anthony Albanese goes out of his way not to make a big deal of it and never wants to look like hes undermining Donald Trump. He continues to send the hefty cheques to America to keep AUKUS alive and has said several times this week that Trump is an enduring advocate for peace in the Middle East, which is what the US president likes to hear. But the signs of the shift are mounting.

Finding itself in an external environment that is in many respects full of shocks, the Albanese government is staking out a more independent  or at the very least, a less America-dependent  security and diplomatic stance for Australia.

Albaneses point-blank rejection of a series of direct and indirect demands from Trumps Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, and US government factotums to almost double Australias defence spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP is perhaps the boldest stance he has taken as PM. Albaneses continued dismissals are truly getting up the US administrations nose; various underlings are now regularly briefing reporters against Australia. And this week Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong foreshadowed the recognition of a Palestinian state, comprehensively at odds with the stance of the US, which is the Netanyahu governments chief military supplier and diplomatic enabler.

These positions are not without risk, given how deeply enmeshed Australia has become in its alliance with America, and how long Australia has regarded Israel as a friend. But given the twin shocks of Trumps rapid transformation of the US government and Benjamin Netanyahus military strategy in response to Hamas diabolical attacks in 2023, which has failed to return all of the hostages, laid waste to Gaza, killed tens of thousands of civilians and led to widespread starvation, its difficult to see how a prudent government could not have taken this course.

Loading

The adjustments taking place in our relationships are in line with broader public sentiment in Australia. Trumps Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has dismissed Palestinian recognition by countries including Australia as meaningless and driven by domestic politics. In a sense, he is right. Recognition is a mostly symbolic tactic designed to impose diplomatic pressure on Israel. It might not work and probably wont while America continues to physically support Netanyahus every action. But is Trumps foreign America First policy not also driven by his domestic political intentions? This week his vice president, JD Vance, said the US government would no longer send arms to Ukraine because Americans were sick of their government doing so. Instead, the US will sell arms to European countries which can give them to Ukraine.

Australias strategic positions should not chop and change, but they should develop over time and reflect the general sympathies and inclinations of the bulk of its people. Because of our geographical isolation and colonial past, with a nation-state built on immigration, Australia is an outward-looking country. Most Australians see Trump for what he is: a great disruptor. Trump bases all his decisions on his own self-interest. And because he is the president and is dedicated to accruing as much personal power as possible, to the extent that he is now ignoring his own courts and militarising policing in cities that dont vote for him, those decisions and actions are expressed ultimately as being in Americas own best interests.
One person was detained for a week despite receiving an invalid visa refusal letter  the same mistake that had resulted in a man being incorrectly detained in 2018 for four years.

The report said 90 per cent of the cases would have been avoided if existing policies had been followed, and that the same mistakes  including poor record keeping and failure to check conflicting information  had been made before but were not fixed.

The Commonwealth Ombudsman revealed in a report on Wednesday that the department wrongfully detained 11 people between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024, with officers failing to decide for themselves whether it was reasonable to detain someone in most of the cases.

A culture of act first, check later in the Department of Home Affairs led to repeat mistakes causing almost every wrongful detention in a single year, including an Australian citizen and a person who was held for a year and a half before being released.

Since we began monitoring the issue in 2005, we have observed the same types of errors are causing people to be wrongfully detained, the report said.

In addition, the department has not improved the way it addresses its mistakes with the individuals it has wrongfully detained. The department does not offer people it has wrongfully detained any form of redress, formal apology, or financial compensation.

Immigration detention staff can lawfully detain a person if they know or reasonably suspect them to be an unlawful non-citizen. Wrongful detentions occur when the suspicion is incorrect and the person is released, according to the ombudsman. It did not analyse whether Home Affairs officers reasonably held suspicions about detained people in the first place, saying that would be too legally complex.

The report said the data indicated that a culture of carelessness first identified in 2007 may still be present. In 81 per cent of the cases, staff acted as if the decision to detain a person had already been made by someone else and did not take responsibility for forming reasonable suspicion in their own minds.

The ombudsman regularly reviews wrongful detention, in part as a response to the case of Vivian Alvarez, a Filipino-born Australian citizen who was deported in 2001 after being admitted to hospital after falling into a drain. Her former husband searched for her for years, and she featured on missing persons television program Without a Trace. The department was made aware of its mistake by multiple sources in 2003, but took no action. Alvarezs case didnt become public until 2005.
Being the premier is not the hardest job in NSW politics. No, being leader of an opposition plagued by brand damage, policy inertia and an identity crisis is much more difficult. Little wonder Mark Speakman is under siege. When the troops are failing, they blame their commander.

NSW Liberal politicians Kellie Sloane (left) and James Griffin (right) are likely to be contenders if Mark Speakman (centre) loses the leadership. Credit: Aresna Villaneuva

Leadership chatter ebbs and flows when an opposition has minimal hope of winning power at the next election. At the moment, thanks to a range of factors impacting the Liberals, including poor polling, a looming byelection sparked by the conviction of rapist and former Liberal MP Gareth Ward, and jittery backbenchers, the longevity of Speakman as leader is topic du jour among the Coalition.

But the question for those anxious Liberals is this: Is it better the devil you know?

Speakman is cerebral and often approaches his role through a barristers lens rather than a political one. He has failed to land a blow on the polished Premier Chris Minns, and has allowed his senior lieutenants to make poor political choices, such as befriending the increasingly isolated and unpredictable Mark Latham. Frontbenchers are doing little to develop policy.
Across the worlds wealth hubs, a quiet but powerful shift is under way. High-net-worth investors (HNWIs) are no longer confining their sustainable investment focus to clean energy and low-carbon sectors alone.

Increasingly, they are directing capital toward transition investing - backing companies in high-emission industries that are actively reshaping their operations to meet the demands of a low-carbon economy. A recent report spanning eight key markets from Standard Chartered reveals that 87% of HNWIs now have an appetite for such investments.

That figure is striking, given that many of these investors built their fortunes in sectors like manufacturing, energy, and heavy industry - sectors under the sharpest pressure to decarbonise. Far from shunning these industries, they see an opportunity: to help future-proof them, and to reap the rewards of companies that lead their peers in adapting.

Clients in our markets understand the concept of climate transition as many of them have built wealth in high carbon industries, says Eugenia Koh, Global Head, Sustainable Finance, Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered.

Eugenia Koh, Global Head, Sustainable Finance, Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered.

They are keenly aware of the opportunities and risks  some of them may be seeing demand from international companies come through to their own business and acknowledge that companies that are ahead of transitioning will be competitive and the leaders of tomorrow.

Beyond Altruism - Toward Financial Resilience

Although transition investing might seem like a natural offshoot of broader sustainable investing, the emphasis here is firmly on financial materiality. Investors in our footprint are very pragmatic, Koh explains. They are not looking at sustainable trends just for altruistic reasons but trends that are also focused on financial materiality.

This is the first year the survey has explored transition investing specifically, yet the trend mirrors previous patterns in sustainable finance. The motivation is not just about doing good but ensuring portfolios are prepared for a world where carbon prices, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer demands could reshape industries overnight.

Markets with Distinct Motivations

While the global appetite is broad, the drivers vary sharply by region.

In Hong Kong, personal values (61%) are the top motivator, followed closely by improved returns (also 61%), with social and environmental impact in third place.

Mainland China shows higher-than-average investor scepticism, particularly around risk and the tangible impact of investments. A lack of benchmarks is also seen as a hurdle. Yet the leading driver here remains environmental and social impact (64%), followed by returns (59%) and compliance with social norms (55%).
The gap between top-end house prices and the affordable end of the market has narrowed over the past three years, new analysis shows, but some neighbourhoods remain deeply unequal.

In September 2021, the top end of Australias property market  worth $1.12 million at the time  was more than 2.3 times as high as the lower end, worth about $494,000, Ray White research found.

Some suburbs have wide gaps between the most expensive and least expensive houses. Credit: Edwina Pickles

Then interest rates jumped, limiting how much money would-be buyers could borrow. More buyers searched for affordable properties, increasing competition and pushing up prices at the lower end.

The gap between either end of the market narrowed to 1.9 times. Now, a house at the upper end, or in the top 25 per cent of the market, costs 15 per cent more at $1.29 million, while the lower end has jumped by 35 per cent to $667,000.
Chinas military said on Wednesday it monitored and drove away a US destroyer that sailed near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the busy waterway of the South China Sea, while the US Navy said its action was in line with international law.

The first known American military operation in at least six years within the shoals waters came a day after the Philippines accused Chinese vessels of dangerous manoeuvres and unlawful interference during a supply mission around the atoll.

The USS Higgins is shown passing through the Taiwan Strait in 2022. Credit: AP

In a statement, the Chinese militarys Southern Theatre Command said the USS Higgins had entered the waters without approval of the Chinese government on Wednesday.

The US move seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security, severely undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea, it added, vowing to keep a high alert at all times.
Washington: Australia must speak more clearly about the threats posed by China, including how it would respond to a regional conflict, or risk the AUKUS submarine agreement, Indo-Pacific experts in the United States are warning.

John Bolton, who served as Donald Trumps national security adviser in his first term, and held senior roles in other Republican administrations, said policymakers in Washington had noted the Albanese government was less vocal about what the problem is compared with its predecessors.

The US Defence Department is reviewing the AUKUS agreement. Credit: Nathan Perri

It is a little hard to get used to, Bolton said in an interview. In the Cold War days, Labour governments in Great Britain were just as anti-communist as the Conservatives. When you see a leftist government thats not willing to talk as openly about what the real threat is, it does make some people nervous.

I would be less than fully candid if I said it didnt make me a little nervous. Why the hell are we worried about talking about what the threat is? The struggle is on, and we ought to be candid about it.
PHILIPSBURG--- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has taken a critical step to promote transparency and accountability in the regulation of essential services by releasing a non-confidential version of the Evaluation of Electricity and Potable Water Tariffs Sint Maarten report to Parliament.

The move directly responds to the recent request from President of Parliament Member of Parliament (MP) Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, who called for a redacted version of the confidential April 30, 2025, report to be made available for parliamentary review.

The report, prepared by the Bureau Telecommunication and Post Sint Maarten (BTP) with Regulatory Authority of Curacao (RAC) stakeholder input, examines the structure, regulation, and pricing of electricity and water. These issues touch every household and business in the country.

MP Wescot-Williams had argued that keeping the full report under wraps limited Parliaments ability to debate critical policy issues and excluded the public from understanding decisions that affect the cost of living.

In response, Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina, via a written request on August 6, 2025, instructed BTP to prepare a redacted version that:

Removes proprietary financial data, personal information, and commercially sensitive details from companies such as GEBE and SOL;

Preserves all policy-relevant analyses, findings, and recommendations essential for parliamentary debate;

Ensures the document can be publicly disclosed while maintaining necessary business confidentiality.

The non-confidential version was completed on August 7, 2025, and received by e-mail correspondence on August 12, 2025. It has now been immediately sent to Parliament.

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized that this step reinforces the Governments commitment to democratic oversight:

When it comes to matters that directly impact every household and business in our country, Parliament and the people have a right to be informed. By releasing the key findings of this report, we enable meaningful debate and informed decision-making. This must be done while safeguarding the legitimate confidentiality of sensitive business data.

Speaking to the broader policy goals, the Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina added, Electricity and water are not luxuries. They are essential services which every citizen and visitor has the right to.

Prime Minister minced no words in stating, This Government remains committed towards ensuring that they remain affordable, reliable, and transparent in how they are priced and regulated with the support of all relevant stakeholders.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) would like to inform the business community, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and stakeholders is unable to print Hurricane Passes at this time due to internet connectivity challenges at the Fire & Ambulance Department Building.

Technicians are working diligently to resolve the problem, and printing will resume once the matter has been resolved.

Applications submitted for the Hurricane Passes for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, that were submitted before the deadline, have already been processed and distributed.

The application process for the two types of passes, the Disaster Pass and the Hurricane Pass, started mid-April 2025 and concluded on May 30, 2025.

The ODM falls under the Ministry of General Affairs and is responsible for handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The Hurricane Pass is valid for the 2025 and 2026 hurricane seasons and will remain the property of the Government of Sint Maarten.

The pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations.

The Prime Minister assesses the damage in conjunction with Emergency Disaster Management entities of the Government after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.
PHILIPSBURG: --- On Wednesday, Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, laid bare the financial instability plaguing Saint Maartens healthcare system. While the Ministers statements highlighted ongoing efforts to address the crisis, they also exposed glaring failures in governance, enforcement, and accountabilityfailures that have left the Social Insurance Bank (SZV) and the people of St Maarten footing an ever-growing bill for systemic neglect.

A Healthcare System on the Brink

Minister Brug confirmed that the government owes SZV a staggering 69 million guilders for the OZR (healthcare costs for civil servants and pensioners) and an additional 49.6 million guilders for services rendered on behalf of the government. Despite structural payments and an additional one million guilders allocated this year, the debt continues to balloon.

The Minister attributed this to rising healthcare costs and the financial burden of undocumented individuals who are not contributing to the system.

The numbers are alarming. Over the past four years, SZV has spent an escalating amount on undocumented persons:

2021: 1.87 million guilders

1.87 million guilders 2022: 2.6 million guilders

2.6 million guilders 2023: 4.01 million guilders

4.01 million guilders 2024: 5.6 million guilders

This represents a 200% increase in just four years, a trend that Minister Brug described as a leak in the bucket that must be plugged. Yet, despite these dire statistics, the government has no concrete payment plan to stabilize SZVs finances, leaving the institution in a precarious position.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Minister Brugs remarks also shed light on a troubling issue: the widespread non-compliance of business owners with labor laws. Employers are legally obligated to register their employeesdocumented or undocumentedwith SZV for medical coverage. However, many fail to do so, leaving workers uninsured and shifting the financial burden onto SZV and, by extension, the taxpayers of St Maarten.

The Minister acknowledged that approximately 5,000 undocumented individuals are currently contributing to SZV. However, this is a fraction of the undocumented population, many of whom remain uninsured. When uninsured individuals require medical care, SZV is often forced to cover the costs, particularly for emergency evacuations. Meanwhile, hospitals are left holding unpaid bills for uninsured patients, further straining the healthcare system.

Minister Brugs admission that business owners bad practices are driving up healthcare costs is a damning indictment of his own ministrys failure to enforce labor laws. As the official responsible for issuing labor permits and ensuring compliance, the Minister has a direct role in addressing these violations. Yet, his statements suggest a reactive approach rather than a proactive strategy to hold employers accountable.

Empty Promises and Shifting Blame

While the Minister emphasized ongoing efforts to restructure the healthcare system, including the drafting of a National Health Insurance (NHI) plan and a visitors tax, these measures remain in the planning stages. In the meantime, SZVs financial instability continues to worsen, and the governments debt grows unchecked.

Minister Brugs attempts to shift blame onto business owners and undocumented individuals rings hollow. The governments failure to enforce labor laws and ensure timely payments to SZV is a direct contributor to the current crisis. Moreover, the lack of a clear payment plan or timeline for repaying SZV undermines any claims of progress.

The people of St Maarten deserve better. They deserve a government that prioritizes the financial stability of its healthcare system and enforces labor laws to protect workers and taxpayers alike. Minister Brugs statements, while candid, reveal a troubling lack of urgency and accountability. The time for excuses is over. It is time for action.

Minister Brug must take immediate steps to:

Enforce Labor Laws: Crack down on non-compliant employers and ensure all workers are registered with SZV. Develop a Payment Plan: Commit to a clear timeline for repaying SZV and stabilizing its finances. Address Healthcare Costs: Implement measures to control rising healthcare expenses, including those related to undocumented individuals. Increase Transparency: Provide regular updates on the governments progress in addressing SZVs financial challenges.

Without decisive action, the healthcare system will continue to deteriorate, leaving the most vulnerable members of society to bear the brunt of the governments failures. Minister Brugs legacy will not be defined by his promises but by his abilityor inabilityto deliver real solutions. The clock is ticking.
Modulaire Group, Europe and Asia Pacific s leading business services company specialising in modular services and infrastructure, has today announced that Pavan Pattada has decided to step down to return to the United States to pursue new opportunities.

The Board has initiated a formal search process to appoint a permanent successor. In the interim, oversight of the business will be led by Chairman Richard Ingram, working in close partnership with Modulaire s Executive Committee to ensure continued strategic and operational alignment.

We thank Pavan for his leadership and for the important role he has played in guiding our strategic direction, said Richard Ingram, chairman of Modulaire Group. The Transformation plans he has architected are clear and will continue to be our ongoing focus.

The Board noted that Modulaire remains on track with its transformation plans, and is well-positioned to continue to deliver on its operational and financial goals.

About Modulaire Group

investorrelations@modulairegroup.com

For more information:

For more information, please visit: https://www.modulairegroup.com.

Modulaire is a leader in European modular services and infrastructure. We create smart spaces for people to work, learn and live. Our business helps customers find the right space solution, no matter what their requirements. Modulaire has operations in 23 countries, with over ~330,000 modular space and portable storage units, and 5,000 remote accommodation rooms. The company operates as Algeco, its largest brand, across much of Europe and the United Kingdom. Other operating brands include Advante in the United Kingdom, Altempo in France, Ausco and NET Modular in Australia, and Portacom in New Zealand.

For further information:

Investor Relations

investorrelations@modulairegroup.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/modulaire-group-announces-ceo-transition-302528805.html

Original-Content von: Modulaire Group, ubermittelt durch news aktuell
Accelerating AI-powered Cloud & Digital transformation for Australian enterprises

Infosys (https://www.infosys.com/en.html) (NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced the formation of a joint venture with Telstra (https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.telstra.com.au%2F&data=05%7C02%7CRajarshi.Basu%40infosys.com%7C83fc94c7416a42a41fb208ddda1e0604%7C63ce7d592f3e42cda8ccbe764cff5eb6%7C0%7C0%7C638906544687926336%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=j5slWLpvA1JRvyfrV%2B3IQymOyBEsv3pWbfv2fz8jtaM%3D&reserved=0), Australia s leading telecommunications and technology company. Accelerating Infosys strategy to help clients navigate their AI journey, this collaboration will propel AI-enabled cloud and digital solutions for Australian businesses.

Infosys will acquire 75% of the shareholding in Versent Group1, Australia s leading Digital Transformation Solutions Provider, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Telstra Group, that delivers cloud and digital transformation. Infosys will have operational control, while Telstra will continue to retain a 25% minority stake in Versent Group, reflecting its confidence in the shared potential for growth and customer value, combining Telstra s connectivity, Versent s local digital engineering expertise, and Infosys global scale.

Versent Group has earned its reputation by helping Australian enterprises design and implement cloud strategy with industry leading partners  delivering digital transformation with deep industry expertise. With a team of 650 engineers, advisors, strategists spread across Australia, Versent Group strengthens Infosys local presence. Versent Group primarily serves large blue-chip organizations with established presence in government & education, financial institutions, energy, and the utilities sector.

This strategic collaboration will see Versent Group s cloud and digital transformation expertise boosted by Infosys advanced AI capabilities, Cloud, Data and Digital consulting services. The collaboration will leverage Infosys Topaz (https://www.infosys.com/services/data-ai-topaz.html) and cloud offering Infosys Cobalt (https://www.infosys.com/services/cloud-cobalt.html), as well as the cybersecurity capabilities of The Missing Link (https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.themissinglink.com.au%2F&data=05%7C02%7CRajarshi.Basu%40infosys.com%7C83fc94c7416a42a41fb208ddda1e0604%7C63ce7d592f3e42cda8ccbe764cff5eb6%7C0%7C0%7C638906544687960227%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=i5EJbaMAggb22PYv2f4OWybGVKyGj%2Fw5UAKjPlGeH5Q%3D&reserved=0). It aims to deliver a new wave of differentiated value to accelerate end-to-end digital transformation for Australian enterprises and government corporations.

In 2024, Infosys had announced (https://www.infosys.com/newsroom/press-releases/2024/ai-led-engineering-transformation.html) a strategic multi-year collaboration with Telstra (https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.telstra.com.au%2F&data=05%7C02%7CRajarshi.Basu%40infosys.com%7C83fc94c7416a42a41fb208ddda1e0604%7C63ce7d592f3e42cda8ccbe764cff5eb6%7C0%7C0%7C638906544687970306%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2KvKts5baoZKQFo5OXOqxB%2BUnBuBSGwynoIEYE0rW44%3D&reserved=0) to accelerate its software engineering and IT transformation journey and enhance customer experience. Further, in 2025, Infosys announced (https://www.infosys.com/newsroom/press-releases/2025/collaborate-advance-technology-leadership.html) a collaboration with Telstra International (https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.telstrainternational.com%2Fen%2Fabout-us&data=05%7C02%7CRajarshi.Basu%40infosys.com%7C83fc94c7416a42a41fb208ddda1e0604%7C63ce7d592f3e42cda8ccbe764cff5eb6%7C0%7C0%7C638906544687980311%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qqqiAakSKLlIN4c0jLVQeDGE3pNM2B0%2FS3TMxqMvSjQ%3D&reserved=0), to advance technology leadership, drive innovation and support Telstra s new Connected Future 30 strategy. This joint venture is another key step in strengthening the strategic collaboration between the two organizations to further the technology transformation agenda for enterprises across the region.

Vicki Brady, Chief Executive Officer, Telstra said, Our collaboration with Infosys reflects our confidence in the value we can unlock together. Their global scale, deep industry knowledge, and culture of innovation and service excellence will be instrumental in accelerating Versent Group s growth and impact across the region.

Salil Parekh, Chief Executive Officer, Infosys said, We are excited to bring Infosys Topaz to enable transformative AI-first capabilities to complement Versent Group s cloud-first digital foundation. Expanding our trusted collaboration with Telstra, with whom we share a valued relationship, unveils a new opportunity to further accelerate the innovation agenda for enterprises across the region.

Oliver Camplin-Warner, Group Executive for Telstra Enterprise added, We re excited about what s ahead as we deepen our strategic collaboration with Infosys. By combining the strengths of our three businesses, we re creating a unique proposition that will help Australian enterprises grow and innovate in today s fast-moving, AI-driven digital landscape.

Anand Swaminathan, Executive Vice President  Global Head of Communications, Media & Technology, Infosys added, By combining Infosys global leadership in digital services with the strength and trust of the Telstra brand, we are uniquely positioned to deliver cloud and AI solutions that are secure, resilient, and built for the digital needs of Australia and New Zealand. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment in accelerating AI-led innovation, and enabling a more connected, intelligent, and digital future for the region.

Infosys is delighted to welcome Versent Group and its leadership team.

The transaction is expected to close during the second half of FY 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

1 Versent Group is Telstra Purple Pty Ltd and is the integration of Versent, Epicon, Telstra Purple Digital and associated Cloud Access products. Telstra Purple Digital refers to carve-out from Telstra s Enterprise Tech Services/Telstra Purple portfolio, and excludes Alliance Automation Pty Ltd, Aqura Technologies Pty Ltd, and Telstra Broadcast Services Pty Limited.

About Telstra

Telstra is Australia s leading telecommunications and technology company, delivering advanced connectivity across mobile, fixed, and digital platforms. We enable people, businesses, and governments to connect to what matters mostlocally and globally. Through innovation and network leadership, we re building a more resilient, responsive, and inclusive digital future.

About Versent Group

Versent Group is a market leading digital transformation partner, uniting the capabilities of Versent, Telstra Purple Digital, and Epicon under one brand. With deep expertise in cloud-native solutions and a commitment to delivering real outcomes, Versent Group is focused on helping organisations achieve lasting success in a simpler, stronger way.

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. Over 320,000 of our people work to amplify human potential and create the next opportunity for people, businesses, and communities. We enable clients in 59 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer clients, as they navigate their digital transformation powered by cloud and AI. We enable them with an AI-first core, empower the business with agile digital at scale and drive continuous improvement with always-on learning through the transfer of digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. We are deeply committed to being a well-governed, environmentally sustainable organization where diverse talent thrives in an inclusive workplace.

Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, or our future financial or operating performance, are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding the execution of our business strategy, increased competition for talent, our ability to attract and retain personnel, increase in wages, investments to reskill our employees, our ability to effectively implement a hybrid work model, economic uncertainties and geo-political situations, technological disruptions and innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI, the complex and evolving regulatory landscape including immigration regulation changes, our ESG vision, our capital allocation policy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity, capital resources, our corporate actions including acquisitions, and cybersecurity matters. Important factors that may cause actual results or outcomes to differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements are discussed in more detail in our US Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/4364085/Infosys_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/infosys-and-telstra-announce-joint-venture-in-australia-302529108.html

Contact:

PR_Global@infosys.com

Original-Content von: INFOSYS, ubermittelt durch news aktuell
This story was originally published on Manufacturing Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Manufacturing Dive newsletter.

The manufacturing sector lost 11,000 jobs in July, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics said in an Aug. 1 news release.

Thats an estimated 27% improvement month-over-month, compared to 15,000 job losses in June, according to the BLS report. Still, job losses skyrocketed by 1,200% year over year: About 1,000 jobs were added in July 2024, compared with this years loss of 11,000.

Some of the manufacturing sectors hit the hardest were food, beverage, tobacco, leather, textiles and semiconductors, along with machinery, printing and related support activities.

The slight downturn in manufacturing jobs in July is hardly surprising, Scott Paul, president of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, said in an Aug. 1 statement. Its another treading water number, which has been the case more often than not for the past few years.

The jobs report data showed only 73,000 jobs were added last month, a 17% YoY drop to last Julys 88,000. The report led to President Donald Trump firing BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer, accusing her of manipulating the numbers, according to an Aug. 1 Truth Social post.

Earlier this week, Trump announced that he nominated E. J. Antoni to succeed McEntarfer. Antoni is currently the chief economist for the right-wing think tank, The Heritage Foundation. While he still needs to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, labor experts worry about his prior suggestion to suspend monthly job reports, according to The New York Times.

Job additions and losses since in 2025

The manufacturing industry added the most jobs in February and lost the most in June.

The manufacturing sector added 9,000 jobs combined in February and March, according to the BLS report. After March, the job cuts gradually increased. This is due to reduced manufacturing activity, Victoria Bloom, chief economist at the National Association of Manufacturers, said at Supply Chain Dives July 23 event, Supply Chain Outlook: Trends and Risks to Watch in 2025.

All of this is happening under the backdrop of heightened trade uncertainty, Bloom said.

Additionally, manufacturing is still seeing fewer turnovers than the broader economy, as the separations rate is relatively low, Bloom said in an emailed statement. Layoffs and discharges remained low as well, she added.

June separations, which include quits, layoffs and discharges, reached 305,000, a BLS report released on July 29. Compared to the U.S. as a whole, which approximately 5.1 million separations occurred in June.
Elon Musk accuses App Store of favoring OpenAI



San Francisco, United States, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



Elon Musk has taken his feud against OpenAI to the App Store, accusing Apple of favoring ChatGPT in the digital shop and vowing legal action.

"Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation," Musk said in a post on his social network X on Monday, without providing evidence to back his claim.

"xAI will take immediate legal action," he added, referencing his own artificial intelligence company.

X users responded by pointing out that DeepSeek AI out of China hit the top spot in the App Store early this year, and Perplexity AI recently ranked number one in the App Store in India.

DeepSeek and Perplexity compete with OpenAI and Musk's startup xAI.

Both OpenAI and xAI released new versions of their AI assistants, ChatGPT and Grok, in the past week.

App Store rankings on Tuesday listed ChatGPT as the top free iPhone app with Grok in fifth place.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Factors going into App Store rankings include user engagement, reviews, and the number of downloads.

OpenAI and Apple in June of last year announced an alliance to enhance iPhones and other devices with ChatGPT features.

ChatGPT-5 rolled out free to the nearly 700 million people who use it weekly, OpenAI said in a briefing with journalists last week.

Tech industry rivals Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft and xAI have been pouring billions of dollars into artificial intelligence since the blockbuster launch of the first version of ChatGPT in late 2022.

Chinese startup DeepSeek shook up the AI sector early this year with a model that delivers high performance using less costly chips.

OpenAI in April of this year filed counterclaims against multi-billionaire Musk, accusing its former co-founder of waging a "relentless campaign" to damage the organization after it achieved success without him.

In legal documents filed at the time in northern California federal court, OpenAI alleged Musk became hostile toward the company after abandoning it years before its breakthrough achievements with ChatGPT.

The lawsuit was another round in a bitter feud between the generative AI (genAI) start-up and the world's richest man, who sued OpenAI last year, accusing the company of betraying its founding mission.

In its countersuit, the company alleged Musk "made it his project to take down OpenAI, and to build a direct competitor that would seize the technological lead -- not for humanity but for Elon Musk."

Musk founded his own genAI startup, xAI, in 2023 to compete with OpenAI and the other major AI players.
Press Release from Business Wire: Ant International



(AFP) Aug 13, 2025



KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13, 2025 (BSW) - Ant International:

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812873954/en/

Making payments at Stellar Coffee, a cafe in Kuala Lumpur popular with tourists, is now easier for users of Alipay+'s 15 partner e-wallets across key travel markets such as Singapore and Indonesia







Increasing Investments in Ant International's Digital Business Centre in Kuala Lumpur

Ant International, headquartered in Singapore, has been expanding its human and technology investments in Malaysia as a regional technology and commercial hub. The Ant International Digital Business Centre in Kuala Lumpur, created in 2024, now houses close to 800 engineers and professionals working across AI R&D, technology, security, product development and customer service to serve Ant's global clients. "We are accelerating hiring in Kuala Lumpur, and expecting another 25% staff growth in the coming months," said Feagin.

According to Feagin, Ant International's investment in Malaysia aligns with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, which outlines a framework for the country's digital transformation, including talent development and the creation of a digitally inclusive society.

Malaysia has emerged as a key Southeast Asian market, and is among the leaders in QR-code adoption when it comes to digital payments. Its national QR payments scheme, DuitNow QR, has 2.5 million merchants registered, almost three times the number of traditional point-of-sale terminals in Malaysia.

Expanding Partnerships to Enhance Regional and Global Travel & Trade Connectivity

"Innovation and collaboration are necessary ingredients to drive genuinely inclusive, sustainable growth," said Feagin. Ant International is expanding cooperation with Malaysian regulators and partners to promote digitalization of cross-border trade and commerce for Alipay+ and its other business lines.

Alipay+, the global wallet gateway service under Ant International, has been a key partner of PayNet, Malaysia's national payments network provider, to support travellers using global wallets to pay on DuitNow, the country's national real-time payments network.

In 2024, Malaysia welcomed close to 38m foreign visitors, a 31.1 percent increase compared with the year before. That same year, more than 80 percent of inbound QR payments to Malaysia via DuitNow were made through Alipay+.

"We look forward to expanding our relationship with PayNet and local businesses to maximize travel and cross-border commerce for Malaysia, including bringing on global tax refunds, remittance connectivity, and AI-powered travel services," said Feagin.

WorldFirst, Ant International's global business account service, secured a Class A Money Services Business license from the Central Bank of Malaysia in August to better support Malaysian and regional SMEs to grow international business. As of June 2025, WorldFirst has served over 1.2 million SMEs globally, with a total transaction volume of over 300 bn USD.

"Solutions like these enable small merchants to focus on the things they want to do - attract new customers, increase revenues, and give back to their communities," said Feagin.

Supercharging digital economy through AI

Technology cooperation and capacity building for fintech partners has been a focus for Ant International. In June 2025, it introduced Alipay+ Cockpit, an AI-as-a-Service platform that enables fintech businesses to develop their own AI growth and security tools tailored to the complex commerce and financial landscape of emerging markets.

"Democratizing AI for emerging markets and small businesses is our core mission," Feagin said. "Ant International is working with partners and regulators to develop a future-ready Trusted AI architecture. While regional businesses make fuller use of agentic AI tools for growth, they should also should also be able to rely on an AI security platform supported by compliance knowledge, threat detection and combat capabilities."

Ant International is introducing a range of new AI tools to Malaysian partners, including Alipay+ EasySafePay 360, an account protection program for users of participating Alipay+ mobile payment partners. It uses AI-powered risk-management solutions to safeguard transactions and offers money-back guarantees for verified unauthorised transactions.

"Global shifts as we see today present huge challenges, but also new opportunities and openings for a vibrant, young economy like Malaysia," said Feagin. "We look forward to expanding our partnerships here, learning more, and contributing more to talent development and technology advancement across the country."







View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812873954/en/









Contact

Ant International Alex Goh [email protected]
Press Release from Business Wire: NTT DATA



(AFP) Aug 13, 2025



TOKYO & LONDON, Aug 13, 2025 (BSW) -

NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today announced a global partnership with Google Cloud to accelerate AI-powered cloud innovations and unlock new possibilities with AI for enterprise organizations across industries.



This collaboration combines NTT DATA's deep industry expertise in AI, cloud-native modernization and data engineering with Google Cloud's advanced analytics, AI and cloud technologies to deliver tailored, scalable enterprise solutions.



With a focus on co-innovation, the partnership will drive industry-specific cloud and AI solutions, leveraging NTT DATA's proven frameworks and best practices along with Google Cloud's capabilities to deliver customized solutions backed by deep implementation expertise. Significant joint go-to-market investments will support seamless adoption across key markets.



According to Gartner(R), worldwide end-user spending on public cloud services is forecast to reach $723 billion in 2025, up from $595.7 billion in 2024.1 The use of AI deployments in IT and business operations is accelerating the reliance on modern cloud infrastructure, highlighting the critical importance of this strategic global partnership.



"This collaboration with Google Cloud represents a significant milestone in our mission to drive innovation and digital transformation across industries," said Marv Mouchawar, Head of Global Innovation, NTT DATA. "By combining NTT DATA's deep expertise in AI, cloud-native modernization and enterprise solutions with Google Cloud's advanced technologies, we are helping businesses accelerate their AI-powered cloud adoption globally and unlock new opportunities for growth."



"Our partnership with NTT DATA will help enterprises use agentic AI to enhance business processes and solve complex industry challenges," said Kevin Ichhpurani, President, Global Partner Ecosystem at Google Cloud. "By combining Google Cloud's AI with NTT DATA's implementation expertise, we will enable customers to deploy intelligent agents that modernize operations and deliver significant value for their organizations."



Driving AI innovation across industries



NTT DATA will leverage Google Cloud technology to develop several industry-specific AI and cloud solutions, accelerating enterprise transformation across sectors including banking, insurance, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, life sciences and the public sector.



For example, in financial services, this collaboration will support regulatory compliance and reporting through NTT DATA solutions like Regla, which leverage Google Cloud's scalable AI infrastructure. In hospitality, NTT DATA's Virtual Travel Concierge enhances customer experience and drives sales with 24x7 multilingual support, real-time itinerary planning and intelligent travel recommendations. It uses the capabilities of Google's Gemini models to drive personalization across more than 3 million monthly conversations.



Key focus areas include:



-- Industry-specific agentic AI solutions: NTT DATA will build new industry solutions that transform analytics, decision-making and client experiences using Google Agentspace, Google's Gemini models, secure data clean rooms and modernized data platforms.

-- AI-driven cloud modernization: Accelerating enterprise modernization with Google Distributed Cloud for secure, scalable modernization built and managed on NTT DATA's global infrastructure, from data centers to edge to cloud.

-- Next-generation application and security modernization: Strengthening enterprise agility and resilience through mainframe modernization, DevOps, observability, API management, cybersecurity frameworks and SAP on Google Cloud.

-- Sovereign cloud innovation: Delivering secure, compliant solutions through Google Distributed Cloud in both air-gapped and connected deployments. Air-gapped environments operate offline for maximum data isolation. Connected deployments enable secure integration with cloud services. These scenarios meet data sovereignty and regulatory demands in sectors such as finance, government and healthcare without compromising innovation.

-- Google Distributed Cloud sandbox environment: Google Distributed Cloud sandbox environment is a digital playground where developers can build, test and deploy industry-specific and sovereign cloud deployments. This sandbox will help teams upskill through hands-on training and accelerate time to market with Google Distributed Cloud technologies through preconfigured, ready-to-deploy templates.



NTT DATA will support these innovations through a full-stack suite of services including advisory, building, implementation and ongoing hosting and managed services.



By combining NTT DATA's proven blueprints and delivery expertise with Google Cloud's technology, the partnership will accelerate the development of repeatable, scalable solutions for enterprise transformation. At the heart of this innovation strategy is Takumi,NTT DATA's GenAI framework that guides clients from ideation to enterprise-wide deployment. Takumi integrates seamlessly with Google Cloud's AI stack, enabling rapid prototyping and operationalization of GenAI use cases.



This initiative expands NTT DATA's Smart AI Agent Ecosystem, which unites strategic technology partnerships, specialized assets and an AI-ready talent engine to help clients deploy and manage responsible, business-driven AI at scale.



Accelerating global delivery with a dedicated Google Cloud Business Group



To achieve excellence, NTT DATA has established a dedicated global Google Cloud Business Group comprising thousands of engineers, architects and advisory consultants. This global team at NTT DATA will work in close collaboration with Google Cloud teams to help clients adopt and scale AI-powered cloud technologies.



NTT DATA is also investing in advanced training and certification programs ensuring teams across sales, pre-sales and delivery are equipped to sell, secure, migrate and implement AI-powered cloud solutions. The company aims to certify 5,000 engineers in Google Cloud technology, further reinforcing its role as a leader in cloud transformation on a global scale.



Additionally, both companies are co-investing in global sales and go-to-market campaigns to accelerate client adoption across priority industries. By aligning technical, sales and marketing expertise, the companies aim to scale transformative solutions efficiently across global markets.



Building on strategic momentum



This global partnership builds on NTT DATA and Google Cloud's 2024 co-innovation agreement in APAC. In addition it further strengthens NTT DATA's acquisition of Niveus Solutions, a leading Google Cloud specialist recognized with three 2025 Google Cloud Awards - "Google Cloud Country Partner of the Year - India," "Google Cloud Databases Partner of the Year - APAC" and "Google Cloud Country Partner of the Year - Chile," further validating NTT DATA's commitment to cloud excellence and innovation.



"We're excited to see the strengthened partnership between NTT DATA and Google Cloud, which continues to deliver measurable impact. Their combined expertise has been instrumental in migrating more than 380 workloads to Google Cloud to align with our cloud-first strategy," said Jose Luis Gonzalez Santana, Head of IT Infrastructure, Carrefour. "By running SAP HANA on Google Cloud, we have consolidated 100 legacy applications to create a powerful, modernized e-commerce platform across 200 hypermarkets. This transformation has given us the agility we need during peak times like Black Friday and enabled us to launch new services faster than ever. Together, NTT DATA and Google Cloud are helping us deliver more connected, seamless experiences for our customers,"



About NTT DATA



NTT DATA is a $30+ billion trusted global innovator of business and technology services. We serve 75% of the Fortune Global 100 and are committed to helping clients innovate, optimize and transform for long-term success. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 50 countries and a robust partner ecosystem of established and start-up companies. Our services include business and technology consulting, data and artificial intelligence, industry solutions, as well as the development, implementation and management of applications, infrastructure and connectivity. We are also one of the leading providers of digital and AI infrastructure in the world. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3.6 billion each year in R&D to help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future.



1Gartner Press Release, Gartner Forecasts Worldwide Public Cloud End-User Spending to Total $723 Billion in 2025, November 19, 2024 https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-11-19-gartner-forecasts-worldwide-public-cloud-end-user-spending-to-total-723-billion-dollars-in-2025 GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.











View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250812251722/en/













Contact



Media inquiries:Lori Bosio | [email protected]







 2025 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release.
Press Release from Business Wire: IFF



(AFP) Aug 13, 2025



NEW YORK, Aug 13, 2025 (BSW) -

IFF (NYSE: IFF) today announced that Chief Financial Officer Michael DeVeau will participate in a fireside chat at the Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025 at 9 a.m. ET.



Investors may access the live webcast on the Company's website at ir.iff.com. For those unable to listen to the live webcast, a recorded version will be made available for replay.



Welcome to IFF



At IFF (NYSE: IFF), we make joy through science, creativity and heart. As the global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, health and biosciences, we deliver groundbreaking, sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products-advancing wellness, delighting the senses and enhancing the human experience.Learn more at iff.com, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.











View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813839035/en/













Contact



Media Relations Paulina Heinkel 332-877-5339 [email protected] Investor Relations Michael Bender 212-708-7263 [email protected]







 2025 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release.




The upcoming Trump-Putin meeting is sparking speculation over a potential deal that could ease sanctions and reshape oil markets.

Ending a Four-Year Oil Bull Run, Hedge Funds Are Now Betting on Renewables

- Hedge funds are increasingly giving up on oil as the most profitable commodity play out there, with a Bloomberg analysis of some 700 funds strategies indicating that money managers have been betting against oil throughout 2025.

- Post-COVID recovery was the main engine of hedge funds oil craze, further boosted by the Russia-Ukraine war and ensuing sanctions, creating an almost four-year prevalence of long oil positions up until September 2024.

- Renewable energy stocks have outperformed oil since Trump came to office, with hedge funds now betting on AI driving a boom in electricity generation that would need to be satiated by clean energy, hence the industrys net long on wind stocks even though Trump has called off US federal funding.

- With China actively promoting consolidation in its solar sector and Trump contributing to more than $22 billion cancelled renewable projects in the US, hedge funds believe the clean energy projects of the future will be more transparent and cost-efficient without public funds.

Market Movers



- US oilfield services giant SLB (NYSE:SLB) landed a huge six-well drilling contract in Iraq to increase production at the 4.6 TCf Akkas gas field in the countrys western Anbar governorate, aiming for 100 MMCf/d of output within one year.

- Norways state oil firm Equinor (NYSE:EQNR) was forced to delay drilling at the 350 MMboe Rosebank field, UKs largest undeveloped discovery, after the British government requested additional assessments of Scope 3 emissions.

- Malaysias national energy company Petronas plans to expand the share of its international upstream portfolio to 60% over the next decade, up from the 40-45% currently as domestic oil and gas reserves mature.

- Global energy trader Hartree Partners is reportedly in talks to buy French agricultural trader Touton, which has been trading cocoa for 150 years and controls around 10% of the worlds output.



Tuesday, August 12, 2025

The extension of the US-China trade truce has sparked some upbeat sentiment across the commodity spectrum, however, the impact on oil markets has been fairly muted, with ICE Brent clinging to the $66 per barrel mark. The Trump-Putin summit in Alaska this Friday is set to be the main trendsetter for the upcoming weeks, with a failure to reach a deal most certainly triggering further US pressure on buyers of Russian oil.
Zelensky, European leaders to hold Ukraine online summit before Trump-Putin meet



Berlin, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will hold online talks with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, hoping to convince him to respect Kyiv's interests when he discusses the war with Russia's Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.



Zelensky will travel to Berlin to join the afternoon video conference with the host, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, a German government source told AFP.



Merz has also invited the French, British and other European leaders and the heads of the EU and NATO to take part in the talks.



They are then expected to talk to Trump and Vice President JD Vance in a second round of the conference call.



The Trump-Putin meeting on Friday is so far planned to go ahead without Zelensky. This has fuelled fears Kyiv could be forced into painful concessions, including over land.



EU leaders stressed on Tuesday "the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny", adding that "international borders must not be changed by force".



Zelensky, speaking to reporters Tuesday, ruled out withdrawing troops from the Donbas region which Moscow claims.



Merz's office said the conference call would discuss "further options to exert pressure on Russia" and "preparation of possible peace negotiations and related issues of territorial claims and security".



The talks would include leaders from "Finland, France, the UK, Italy, Poland, Ukraine, the heads of the European Commission and Council, the secretary general of NATO, as well as the US president and his deputy", Berlin said on Monday.



British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and Merz are then also set to hold a round of talks of the so-called Coalition of the Willing of Ukraine's military backers.









- 'Difficult' battles -









Trump on Monday played down the possibility of a breakthrough in Alaska but said he expected "constructive conversations" with Putin.



"This is really a feel-out meeting a little bit," Trump said at the White House, but he also added that eventually "there'll be some swapping, there'll be some changes in land".



Russia, as a prerequisite to a peace settlement, has demanded Kyiv pull its forces out of several regions claimed by Moscow, commit to being a neutral state, shun US and EU military support and be excluded from joining NATO.



Ukraine has said it would never recognise Russian control over its sovereign territory, though it acknowledged that getting land captured by Russia back would have to come through diplomacy, not on the battlefield.



Ukraine said Tuesday it was engaged in "difficult" battles with Russian forces after Moscow had made rapid advances in a narrow but important section of the front line in the country's east.



Zelensky said on social media that "we see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations."



burs/fz/fec/db
Israel military says approved plan for new Gaza offensive



Jerusalem, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



The Israeli military said Wednesday it had approved the "framework" for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, days after the security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza City.



Armed forces chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir "approved the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip," a statement released by the army said.



Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has not provided a precise timetable for when Israeli troops will enter the territory's largest city, where thousands have taken refuge after fleeing previous offensives.



Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli air strikes on Gaza City have intensified in recent days, with the residential neighbourhoods of Zeitoun and Sabra hit "with very heavy air strikes targeting civilian homes, possibly including high-rise buildings".



News of the military's approval of the plan comes hours after Hamas said a senior delegation had arrived in Cairo for "preliminary talks" with Egyptian officials on a temporary truce.



The Netanyahu government's plans to expand the Gaza war after more than 22 months of fighting have sparked an international outcry as well as domestic opposition.



UN-backed experts have warned of widespread famine unfolding in the territory, where Israel has drastically curtailed the amount of humanitarian aid it allows in.



Hamas's October 2023 attack which triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.



Israel's offensive has killed at least 61,599 Palestinians, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza which the United Nations considers reliable.
European powers tell UN they are ready to reimpose Iran sanctions



Paris, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



Britain, France and Germany have told the United Nations they are ready to reimpose UN-mandated sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme if no diplomatic solution is found by the end of August, according to a joint letter released Wednesday.



The letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council says the three European powers are "committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon".



"Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons under any circumstances," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on X, posting a copy of the letter.



"If Iran continues to violate its international obligations, France and its German and British partners will reimpose the global embargoes on arms, nuclear equipment and banking restrictions that were lifted 10 years ago at the end of August," Barrot added.



In the letter, the foreign ministers from the so-called E3 group threaten to use a "snapback mechanism" that was part of a 2015 international deal with Iran that eased UN Security Council sanctions.



Under the deal, which terminates in October, any party to the accord can restore the sanctions.



All three have stepped up warnings to Iran about its suspension of cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency.



That came after Israel launched a 12-day war with Iran in June, partly seeking to destroy its nuclear capability. The United States staged its own bombing raid during the war.



"We have made clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism," said the foreign ministers of France, Britain and of Germany.



All three countries were signatories to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with the United States, China and Russia that offered the carrot and stick deal for Iran to slow its enrichment of uranium needed for a nuclear weapon.



President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the accord in 2018 during his first term and ordered new sanctions.



The European countries said they would stick to the accord. But their letter sets out engagements that the ministers say Iran has breached, including building up a uranium stock to more than 40 times the permitted level under the 2015 deal.



"The E3 remain fully committed to a diplomatic resolution to the crisis caused by Iran's nuclear programme and will continue to engage with a view to reaching a negotiated solution.



"We are equally ready, and have unambiguous legal grounds, to notify the significant non-performance of JCPOA commitments by Iran ... thereby triggering the snapback mechanism, should no satisfactory solution be reached by the end of August 2025," the ministers wrote in the letter.









- End of cooperation -









The United States had already started contacts with Iran, which denies seeking a weapon, over its nuclear activities.



But these were halted by the Israeli strikes in June on Iran's nuclear facilities.



Even before the strikes, the international powers had raised concerns about the lack of access given to IAEA inspectors.



Iran halted all cooperation with the IAEA after the strikes, but it announced that the agency's deputy chief was expected in Teheran for talks on a new cooperation deal.



Last month Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the UN saying that the European countries did not have the legal right to restore sanctions.



The European ministers called this allegation "unfounded".



They insisted that as JCPOA signatories, they would be "clearly and unambiguously legally justified in using relevant provisions" of UN resolutions "to trigger UN snapback to reinstate UNSC resolutions against Iran which would prohibit enrichment and re-impose UN sanctions."



dt/tw-as/dc
Belarus to practice nuclear-capable missile use in Russia drills



Moscow, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



Belarus said Wednesday it will practice deployment of Russia's nuclear-capable Oreshnik missiles during the joint Zapad-2025 ("West-2025") drills close to the EU and NATO's eastern flank border.



Belarus, a former Soviet republic, is a key Russian ally and depends on the large eastern neighbour economically and militarily.



It also allowed its territory to be used as a staging post for Moscow's 2022 offensive in Ukraine.



Kyiv, as well as Poland and the Baltic states, have repeatedly sounded alarm over military build-ups in Belarus, where Russia said it would deploy Oreshnik by the end of the year.



"Of course, we will work out the plan for using this type of weaponry together with our Russian colleagues," Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin said asked if the Zapad drills would include the use of Oreshnik.



In late 2024, Russia used the Ukrainian city of Dnipro as a testing ground for its "experimental" Oreshnik missile without a nuclear warhead.



"We see the situation on our western and northern borders and can't just sit and watch the militarisation and military activity there," Khrenin was quoted as saying by Belta news agency.



Russian state media earlier reported around 13,000 soldiers were originally set to take part in the drills, but the final number of participants was not revealed yet.



The Zapad-2025 military drills, due on September 12-16, usually involve tens of thousands of troops in a show of force close to Belarus's western border with EU and NATO members.



Around 200,000 troops participated in the 2021 edition of Zapad, staged just months before Moscow's assault of Ukraine.
Kazakhstan says defence ministry official detained in Poland



Almaty, Kazakhstan, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



Kazakhstan's defence ministry said Wednesday that one of its employees had been detained in Poland, which earlier this month said it had detained a foreign national accused of espionage.



The defence ministry said on Telegram it could confirm "the detention of an employee of the Kazakh military attache's office by Polish law enforcement."



Poland's ABW security service earlier said that "a citizen of one of the Asian countries established after the fall of the Soviet Union" had been detained on July 30.



"He was identified as a military intelligence officer operating under diplomatic cover in a European country," the ABW said in a statement at the time.



"He conducted intelligence activities that threatened the security of the Republic of Poland and allied military structures," it said, adding that he had been placed under arrest for three months.



Contacted by AFP, the ABW did not immediately respond on whether the man in question was the Kazakh defence ministry employee.



Kazakhstan, located in Central Asia, is a natural resource-rich former Soviet republic that became independent after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Iraqi Kurdish police arrest opposition leader



Sulaimaniyah, Iraq, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025



Police in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region announced they had arrested the leader of the main opposition party there, with his sister saying he would be held until his next court appearance after one scheduled for Wednesday was postponed.



Businessman turned politician Shaswar Abdulwahid leads the New Generation party, which holds 15 of the 100 seats in the northern region's parliament and serves as the main opposition to the two former rebel movements that have dominated Kurdish politics for decades.



He was arrested on a court warrant at his home in the region's second city Sulaimaniyah on Tuesday, police spokesman Sarkout Ahmed said.



A court official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Abdulwahid had been sentenced in absentia to six months in prison after repeatedly failing to appear at hearings for a defamation complaint from a former lawmaker.



He was due in court on Wednesday, but shortly before the hearing a judge postponed it to August 21, his sister Sirwa Abdulwahid, told AFP, adding her brother had not yet been allowed to see his family or his lawyer.



"The lawyer requested his release on bail, but the judge refused the request and decided to extend his detention until the 21st," she said.



Sirwa Abdulwahid is an MP and heads the party's bloc in the Iraqi federal parliament in Baghdad.



New Generation slammed its leader's arrest as a ploy to sabotage a major action planned for next week to address the salary arrears endured by the region's civil servants.



Shaswar Abdulwahid has been arrested several times since he launched the party in 2017. He was also wounded in an assassination attempt.



The region's ruling alliance of the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan has been criticised by human rights groups for its intolerance of dissent and for resorting to arbitrary arrests.
President Donald Trump 's executive order directing financial regulators to include alternative investments in retirement plans like 401(k) funds could change the makeup of Americans' investment portfolios.

Trump signed the executive order on Thursday, and the White House provided a fact sheet directing the Labor Department to reconsider its guidance on alternative assets in 401(k) and defined-contribution retirement plans. Additionally, the agency will work with the Treasury Department and Securities and Exchange Commission to determine whether regulatory changes are needed to carry out the purpose of the order.

The order defines "alternative assets" as applying to private market investments; direct or indirect real estate interests, commodities and infrastructure projects; digital assets held in actively managed investment vehicles; and longevity risk-sharing pools. Federal regulators will have to go through the rulemaking process, meaning that the new investment options may not be available until 2026.

Broadening the types of assets that can be held in 401(k) and similar retirement plans offers new investment opportunities for those saving for retirement  though the new asset classes can experience more volatility than other investment categories and thus should be approached with caution as investors consider the best way to diversify their portfolios.

Trump Signs Order To Open 401(K)s To Private Markets: What It Means For Your Retirement

President Donald Trump signed an executive order opening retirement plans to new investment categories.

"Private investments in 401(k) plans have the potential to improve participant outcomes by providing individuals access to the same range of investments as professional institutional investors, which seek to provide enhanced long-term returns and added diversification," said Ari Jacobs, global head of investments at Aon, following the announcement.

Read On The Fox Business App

"Implementation of these solutions requires thoughtful and robust analysis of key factors such as manager skill, fees, liquidity and valuation."

"Interest among plan sponsors in private investment options that includes private credit, private equity, infrastructure and real estate continues to grow," Jacobs said, adding that the industry has made "significant progress in developing these solutions" to meet the needs of defined contribution plans.

How Should You Handle Your 401(K) Or Ira During Market Volatility?

Peter von Lehe, head of investment solutions for Neuberger Berman, said the firm believes "including private markets in professionally managed retirement products, such as target date funds, allows for prudent exposure to alternatives  potentially enhancing returns and diversification  without requiring individual investors to manage the complexities or liquidity constraints themselves."
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President Trump has had a busy week making moves across the US chip industry. And its only Wednesday. On Monday, Trump revealed his administration will take a 15% cut of sales of Nvidia (NVDA) and AMDs (AMD) chips to Chinese companies in exchange for allowing the AI hardware to flow back into the country.

He also met with Intel (INTC) CEO Lip-Bu Tan on Monday after calling for his ouster last week. At the end of the day, Trump appeared to back away from his initial demand, saying Tans success and rise is an amazing story.

On their face, the developments appear to be positive for the trio of chip giants. But Trumps lightning-fast whiplash between stances raises important questions about the companies futures, including whether Nvidia and AMD will be able to continue selling their chips in China, despite the administrations prior protestations about national security concerns, and what kind of toll the president will extract from Intel moving forward.

Nvidia and AMD get a win for now

Trumps decision to restart the sale of Nvidia and AMD chips into China for a fee means both companies will be able to recoup some of the losses they took when he initially banned processor shipments there in April.

Nvidia had to write off $4.5 billion due to the ban in Q1, with an additional $8 billion hit expected in Q2, while AMD reported an $800 million loss in Q2.

[The] companies can use some part of their prior written-off inventory so even with 15% penalty they get some gross profit recovery, and  China resumption maintains the original goal of engaging with an important (China) AI ecosystem and of potentially keeping competitors (Huawei) in check, BofA Global Research analyst Vivek Arya wrote in a research note following Trumps announcement.

Nvidia, in particular, could end up passing along the 15% fee to its China-based customers, thanks to the strong demand for its offerings.

From my perspective, it is a positive for those companies, Forrester senior analyst Alvin Nguyen told Yahoo Finance. As you know, it opens a market where there's still high demand. Nvidia, especially, still has a lot of cache with their name.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang speaks alongside President Trump about investing in America, at the White House in Washington, D.C., on April 30, 2025. (JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)  JIM WATSON via Getty Images

But Trumps latest AI chip move also introduces some thorny questions. The first of which is whether Nvidia and AMD will continue to be able to sell their AI processors into China moving forward, or if Trump will change his mind again.

After all, the administration originally pulled Nvidias H20 and AMDs MI308 on national security grounds, and as Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon explained to Yahoo Finance, this deal doesnt appear to address the matter.
Alongside it, the hotels co-headliner is Tobi Masa, from sushi master Masayoshi Takayama. Masa, who left his dining room in Harrods earlier this month, is best known for his New York restaurant Masa, where menus begin at $750-a-head. The three-Michelin-star restaurant, which turned 21 this year, is considered one of Americas most coveted bookings. As with New York, Masa will lead a Japanese operation, featuring an omakase counter, a main dining room and a separate bar. According to Hot Dinners, the menu will feature a Mayfair interpretation of the NYC menu, including the likes of Peking duck tacos and a toro (tuna belly) tartare. Masa is expected to be in-situ, preparing food himself, at least for the launch. Like Carbone, it will open a little later in September, on the 16th.
The now-38-year-old, who works as an activist and reportedly earned around 3.5 million for her first memoir, has also spoken openly about her relationship with the Kerchers in recent years. That she has reached out several times but not heard back; that she thinks the family still believe she is withholding something about the murder; and that she still hopes for a reconciliation are among her public claims since being freed. "We experienced something very traumatic together, it would be very nice and I think very healing for us to communicate about that, she said earlier this month. But when it all comes down to it, their grief is real and all-encompassing and my feelings about my own grief don't demand anything of them. I just want them to know that I do want to reconcile with them."
The changes that have been observed he would regard as positive signs and that he had the potential to make further changes. These are likely to be relevant factors that would inform his decision if he had capacity, and would be likely to be a factor in him wishing and feeling that he wanted to continue to be provided with CANH (Clinically Assisted Nutrition and Hydration).
No one in that camp is deterred. They are all determined to come to the UK and I saw lots of people around there carrying life jackets, and we know why theyre carrying life jackets because theyre planning to get on a small boat, or now a not-so-small boat.
I have been clear from the outset that I have done nothing wrong and will respond to any credible evidence that is presented to me. Continuing to smear my name to score political points is both baseless and damaging.
This trip to Scotland was inspired when Don quietly shared with me that his last wish was to return there. We were determined to make it happen  and in doing so, weve not only fulfilled Dons dream, but also the heartfelt wishes of Dorothea and Eugeniusz.
(Updated at 2 p.m. ET)

UPS continues to lay off workers as it moves forward with a strategy of consolidating parcel distribution facilities to reduce excess capacity. The latest job cuts are in Dallas, Texas, and Wilmington, North Carolina.

The integrated parcel logistics company notified the Texas Workforce Commission last week that it plans to release 62 workers at its Dallas facility on Monroe Drive. Layoffs began Aug. 5.

A UPS (NYSE: UPS) spokeswoman told The Dallas Express, which first reported on the workforce reduction, that the jobs were expendable because the company is eliminating a day shift at the facility as part of a major network reconfiguration aimed at eliminating 200 sortation centers over five years and deploying automation to improve productivity.

The delivery giant on Aug. 8 closed a parcel facility in Pocahontas, Arkansas, spokeswoman Karen Tomaszewski Hill told FreightWaves. She did not have information on how many jobs are impacted.

We are working to place as many employees as possible in other positions. We will work with those who may be impacted throughout the process to provide support, she added.

Meanwhile, the News Journal in Wilmington is reporting that UPS will close a facility on U.S. Route 68 on Sept. 23 as part of the nationwide culling process, which includes evaluating utilization and automation levels. Packages will instead route through a more modern facility that can process more volume.

UPS expects most Wilmington employees will transfer to another nearby facility, though the company has not said which one. Its unknown how many people are employed at the Wilmington location because UPS doesnt release employee counts for individual facilities, the News Journal said.

The Atlanta-based courier laid off 99 workers at a facility in Charlotte in early May, according to a notice filed with the North Carolina Department of Commerce.

While our building footprint is changing, our record of reliable pickup and delivery is not, UPS said in a June 25 statement.

In July, it disclosed plans to temporarily close a parcel sortation center in New Orleans and lay off 177 personnel.

UPS has seen volume growth stagnate for nearly two years and expects volumes to decrease as it focuses on turning away low-margin business. Company management earlier this year said the decisions to phase out half of its business with Amazon and streamline infrastructure mean it will need 20,000 fewer workers.

The moves come as UPS seeks to eliminate more jobs by offering drivers a voluntary separation package. FreightWaves reported on Saturday that UPS has given van drivers more time to make a decision because the program is undersubscribed so far.
A new Kendra Scott jewelry store is scheduled to open this winter inside Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, adding another piece of local flavor to the Barbara Jordan Terminal. The new location will join other Austin-based businesses already operating at the airport, such as Amy's Ice Cream and BookPeople.

The announcement marks a new milestone for the Austin-based brand and its founder, Kendra Scott, a self-made entrepreneur whose story is deeply tied to the city.

Where can I find a Kendra Scott store in Austin?

Kendra Scott flagship store on South Congress. Provided by Douglas Friedman

In Austin alone, Kendra Scott operates several retail locations, including a prominent store on South Congress Avenue and another at The Domain. Locations include:

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The Domain: 11506 Century Oaks Terrace Suite 104. 512-879-3174.

11506 Century Oaks Terrace Suite 104. 512-879-3174. Congress: 1701 S. Congress Ave. 512-792-4581.

1701 S. Congress Ave. 512-792-4581. North Lamar: 3800 N Lamar Blvd. 512-879-3422.

While the company's product line has expanded to include fine jewelry, watches, and even home accessories, its roots remain in Austin, where its headquarters and flagship store are located. The brand also has a western-inspired line called Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott with locations in Austin, Dallas, and Houston.

An official statement from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport notes the new store is part of an effort to bring more local businesses to the airport, aiming to enhance the passenger experience by reflecting the city's culture.

Who is Kendra Scott?

Kendra Scott started The Hat Box when her step-father, Robert Ricks, was diagnosed with brain cancer. Scott wanted to start a hat store for people undergoing chemo therapy. She wanted to give people options for comfortable and stylish hats to wear. Scott opened The Hat Box when she was 19-years-old. Provided by Kendra Scott

Scott started her company in 2002 from a spare bedroom with a modest investment of $500, selling her first jewelry collection to local boutiques in Austin.

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Amber Dunbar, David Woerner and Francisco Barrios, first-year medical students, are seen in 2016 in the Health Learning Building at the Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin. Hearst Newspapers file photo Rackspace Technology Inc. has landed a deal to provide cloud computing services to the University of Texas at Austins medical school. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

The University of Texas at Austins Dell Medical School has reached a deal with a San Antonio cloud computing company that could eliminate the schools need to build a physical data center.

Rackspace Technology Inc. reached a deal to host and manage the medical schools health care data systems, including its Epic Electronic Health Record, which Dell plans to use at all its future clinics and hospitals.

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Partnering with Rackspace for our hosted data center needs is crucial to our continued success, and the Epic deployment will be one of the first big steps, said Michael Ryan, the schools chief information and chief administrative officer.

READ NEXT: Dell Medical School clinic at UT Austin joins global bipolar study for treatments

The partnership comes as Rackspace is scrambling to adjust its business as evolving technologies like artificial intelligence change how customers approach such computing needs.

The company is increasingly focused on attracting customers in the health care sector as medical providers look to modernize their handling of the vast amounts of data they must maintain. Dell is the first medical school to move to the companys cloud, Rackspace said.

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It declined to disclose the estimated value of the deal, but the market to migrate and host electronic health records to cloud providers is booming. Its expected to grow from $63.5 billion this year to $197 billion by 2032, according to the Gartner research firm.

The deal lays the groundwork for Dell Med to build an academic medical center without a physical data center. Instead, its systems will run on Rackspaces hardware from afar. Such setups can save infrastructure costs for building, maintaining and operating a physical data center.

However, the model depends on internet connectivity because the computer servers that host the data arent at the locations where people need the data.

EARNINGS NEWS: Rackspace reports fourth consecutive quarterly loss as revenue falls again

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We recognize the importance of being a trusted partner in healthcare technology, and our experience in delivering critical capabilities positions us to effectively support Dell Meds mission, demonstrating how advanced cloud solutions can redefine Healthcare IT, said Harjott Atrii, senior vice president and chief revenue officer for Rackspaces private cloud unit.

Rackspaces private cloud business provides dedicated hardware for each of its customers. Its more secure and customizable than the companys public cloud, where multiple accounts reside on shared infrastructure.

Last week, Rackspace posted a loss of $54.5 million in the second quarter, its fourth-straight quarterly loss and slide in revenue. Private cloud revenue was $249.7 million, down 4% from the $260 million it generated a year ago. Public cloud revenue was $416.6 million, falling 2% from $424.9 million.

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Following the release of those results, analysts with Wall Street Zen, a stock market research platform, downgraded Rackspace from hold to sell.
The Texas Funeral Service Commission has sued two former staff attorneys alleging they divulged confidential and privileged information about the agency to the media. Shown is a file photo of a casket. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Kristin Tips, Presiding Officer of Commissioner Tips of San Antonio, along with TFSC Commissioners moved to dismiss Scott Bingaman as Executive Director of the Texas Funeral Service Commission during the quarterly TFSC meeting at the George H. W. Bush Building in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025." Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-Statesman

The Texas Funeral Service Commission has dropped a lawsuit that sought to muzzle two former staff attorneys who have been speaking to the media about the embattled agency.

Last week, the commission sued Christopher Burnett and Sarah Sanders  both of whom were fired July 21  alleging they had violated their legal and ethical duties by unlawfully divulging confidential and privileged information to the press.

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The agencys lawsuit, which was filed by Attorney General Ken Paxtons office in state District Court in Travis County, said Burnett and Sanders had breached their fiduciary responsibilities. It was seeking a temporary restraining order to prevent the pair from discussing commission information deemed to be confidential or privileged.

The attorney general dropped the case Wednesday without prejudice, meaning it could be refiled. The AGs office didnt respond to an email seeking comment on the move. A lawyer for Burnett and Sanders wasnt available for comment.

The commissions chair is Kristin Tips, who, along with her husband Robert Dick Tips, owns and operates San Antonios Mission Park Funeral Chapels, Cemeteries & Crematories. Their business is regulated by the agency she heads.

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The filing and dismissal of the lawsuit are the latest developments stemming from turmoil at the agency, which made headlines over the past couple of months  beginning with the June 18 firing of Executive Director Scott Bingaman. The day before his termination was made official, he fired off a letter to commissioners addressing what he perceived as conflicts of interest by Kristin Tips and other board members.

The rot in the Commission extends beyond Tips, Bingaman wrote. Hes suing the agency over his firing.

Burnett backed up his former boss, speaking out at the end of June that Gov. Greg Abbotts office was aware of the strife between agency staff and Tips.

Tips recently came under greater scrutiny with the release of an attack ad calling for her to get the boot as the commissions chair.

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Kristin Tips has no business overseeing the Texas Funeral Service Commission, a female narrator says in the online video. Call Governor Abbott and tell him Kristin Tips should resign.

The ad recounts mishaps that allegedly occurred at Mission Park, including the disappearance of a body before it was cremated and the mix-up of two corpses. Tips company was ordered to pay millions in damages in the first, while the second was settled out of court for an undisclosed amount.

She unsuccessfully sought legislation this session that would have capped funeral service providers liability on mental anguish damages. In testimony at a May 22 Senate committee hearing, Tips said medical examiners, law enforcement and municipal and state cemeteries all have immunity from litigation over the handling of human remains.

Were the only group standing there with no immunity, she said. Trial lawyers know this. They are exploiting that. Were easy targets to them, easy money.

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The agencys lawsuit appears to have been triggered, at least in part, by Burnett and Sanders speaking with Dallas public radio station KERA-FM. They told the station that they and Deputy Director Laura Rhinehart were fired at the direction of Tips.

During their interview with KERA, the suit said, the pair accused the commission of violating the Texas Open Meetings Act, blamed the board for relentless employee turnover and firings, bad morale, incompetent inspections, and inept or non-existent implementation of legislation. The suit also alleged the pair shared privileged communications between the commission and the attorney generals office.

The agency said in its suit that it was not seeking to enjoin the pairs right to free speech. Its request for a temporary restraining order and temporary injunction only pertained only to agency information that is confidential or privileged, it said.

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As Whataburger accelerates its national expansion, it's bringing in Jessica Reicher, a 30-year veteran of national restaurant brands, as its new executive vice president and chief operating officer. Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

As Whataburger accelerates its national expansion, the San Antonio-based chain is bringing in more outside talent to lead its corporate strategy.

Jessica Reicher, a veteran of several national restaurant brands, will join the company Sept. 16 as its new executive vice president and chief operating officer, according to a statement. She will oversee all corporate and franchise operations  including operational strategy, execution and team development  as the chain continues to grow in new markets.

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Reicher most recently served as president of Arbys at Flynn Group, leading more than 360 locations across 10 states.

She began her career as an hourly employee at Red Robin before moving into management and eventually becoming regional operations director. Her resume also includes senior leadership experience at Fuddruckers, Pizza Hut International and Taco Bell, as well as a stint as COO for Nandos U.S.

Jessica Reicher, a 30-year veteran of national restaurant brands, will be Whataburgers new executive vice president and chief operating officer. Whataburger

Jessicas proven experience and positive impact on workplace culture make her an ideal fit for our brand as we continue to expand, said Debbie Stroud, Whataburgers CEO. As COO she will sharpen our operational excellence, enhance the Whataburger guest experience at every touchpoint, and invest in developing our Family Members (employees)  fueling our tradition of quality, care and hospitality thats been at the heart of Whataburger since 1950.

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The move comes amid a broader reshaping of the burger chains executive suite.

Stroud, a former Starbucks senior vice president and longtime McDonalds executive, came in as COO of Whataburger in 2023. Earlier this year, she took over as CEO, replacing Ed Nelson, whod been with the company for 20 years.

In October 2024, the company also announced that Todd Huetinck, a veteran of CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc., which operates Carls Jr. and Hardees, would join Whataburger as chief supply chain officer.

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Reichers hiring fills the role left by Stroud when she took over on Jan. 1.

Founded in Corpus Christi in 1950, Whataburger has long been regarded as a Texas institution. In 2019, Chicago-based investment firm BDT Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in Whataburger from the companys founding Dobson family.

The private equity firm said at the time that it planned to aggressively expand the company. Soon after, Whataburger began franchising for the first time in nearly two decades, adding stores in new cities and existing markets while pushing into new states.

Since the acquisition, BDT has expanded Whataburger from 828 locations in 10 states and sales of more than $2 billion annually to more than 1,100 locations in 17 states with sales that topped $4 billion in 2023. About 70% of the restaurants are in Texas.

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It now employs 51,000 people across its markets including about 5,600 at the companys headquarters off U.S. 281 near Sunset and Jones Maltsberger roads, according to Greater: SATX, the regions economic development corporation.
A state trooper works at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman State troopers and a sheriff deputy work at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman State troopers work at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A state trooper works at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A state trooper works at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Fifteen children and one adult were being treated at local medical facilities Wednesday evening for injuries sustained when a Leander school district bus rolled over near Big Sandy Creek in northwestern Travis County, authorities said.

Leander schools Superintendent Bruce Gearing in a Wednesday night letter to families said everyone with injuries was in stable condition.

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In a 6 p.m. post on X, Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services said two children sustained serious injuries that are "not expected to be life-threatening," and the others suffered non-life-threatening injuries. While the number of children hospitalized was originally reported lower, several students were transported to hospitals later Wednesday evening, according to the Department of Public Safety.

Forty-two children and one adult were on the bus, according to Austin-Travis County EMS. Wednesday marked the first day of school for the district.

DPS Sgt. Billy Ray said the bus was traveling south on a curved section of Nameless Road when "for an unknown reason, the bus left the right side of the roadway, rolling it over."

School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Police received multiple 911 calls around 3:15 p.m. reporting a school bus rollover at Nameless Road and Palomino Ranch Drive, near Honeycomb Lane, EMS Assistant Chief Kevin Parker said.

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The bus was carrying students mostly from Bagdad Elementary School, which serves pre-K through fifth grade, though some students from Danielson Middle School also were reportedly on the bus.

Eight ambulances and two Star Flight helicopters responded, though Parker clarified the flights did not necessarily involve severe cases.

In a post on X, Travis County Judge Andy Brown said he is thankful no fatalities or life-threatening injuries had been reported.

The investigation is ongoing, and families whose children were not taken to a hospital were directed to Round Mountain Baptist Church, which is serving as a reunification center, Ray said.

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The school bus was a 2024 model equipped with seat belts, Ray added.

Five people were taken to Dell Children's North Austin Medical Center, the hospital said. Another five people were taken to Dell Children's Medical Center in East Austin, the regions highest-level trauma hospital.

The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation, sheriffs office spokesperson Kristen Dark said. The sheriff's office, StarFlight and ESD 1 are helping with the emergency response, Brown said.

At 4:05 p.m., the Leander school district notified the families of children on Bus 750 that the vehicle had been involved in a crash. The district asked families to avoid the crash site and instead head to Round Mountain Baptist Church.

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Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash.

As of November, 82% of the buses used to transport students on a daily basis in Leander have seat belts. About 42% of the districts additional or back-up fleet have seat belts. This year, Texas lawmakers passed a state law requiring all that all school buses be equipped with seat belts, though districts can exempt themselves for financial reasons. This year's law expanded a 2017 version that only mandated restraints in buses purchased after 2018.

During a 5:45 p.m. news conference, Parker said one person had "life threatening" injuries and two others have "potentially life threatening" conditions, but a 6 p.m. update on X from EMS clarified the injuries were serious but not likely life-threatening.

'Our students are being impacted'

School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

The Big Sandy Creek area, where the crash occurred, was ravaged by deadly flash flooding last month, leaving many roads damaged, including parts of Nameless Road. The crash had nothing to do with damage caused by last months deadly floods, officials said during the Wednesday evening news conference.

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Bagdad students had been affected by the devastating July 5 flooding that damaged homes in the area and killed 17 people, including two Leander students.

"It's hard because that community has gone through so much already," Leander school board President Anna Smith said Wednesday.

Now, the community will need more support, she said.

"Our students are being impacted," Smith said. "Our families are being impacted. There's a lot of hurt going on right now."

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The crash, compounded on top of the summer's floods, "is really breaking our hearts," Gearing said.

"We want each of those students and their families to know that our prayers are with them, our thoughts are with them, and we will do everything we can in our power to support them," Gearing said.

The district will have additional counselors at Bagdad Elementary on Thursday, and Gearing encouraged families to reach out to their principal for additional support.

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FILE - A flare burns off methane and other hydrocarbons as oil pumpjacks operate in the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas, Oct. 12, 2021. Two Texas companies have resolved Clean Air Act violations with the Environmental Protection Agency by agreeing to reduce emissions of planet-warming methane and other harmful pollutants wafting from the nation's largest oil and gas producing region. (AP Photo/David Goldman, File) David Goldman/Associated Press

A major Texas city is the smelliest in the nation, while another is among the freshest, a new study shows.

Online retailer Prilla analyzed the 74 largest U.S. cities to determine which are the "freshest" and which make you want to plug your nose. Although a city's smell may not be top of mind for prospective residents, it can prove to impact daily life  especially in Texas' summer heat. Prilla's study gathered data on the following smell-influencing factors:

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number of landfills and waste transfer stations

sewage complaints filed with city services

industrial facilities

air quality data

estimated pet ownership

Google searches for odor-related terms

While one city in the Lone Star State ranked among the freshest in the country, another was deemed the overall smelliest. Here's what the data shows.

Houston declared America's smelliest city

Pollution clogging flood drains is one of many issues the residents of Settegast, a historically black neighborhood, face on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023, in Houston. Settegast has the lowest life expectancy in all of Harris County, which has prompted the County Health Department, Urban Land Institute and Kinder to work with residents to address the most pressing concerns. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

Perhaps it comes as no surprise that H-Town's odor data stinks. The Texas city earned a freshness score of just 56.09; meanwhile, the freshest city, Reno, scored 90.2.

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Several factors create Houston's unpleasant odor, as documented in the study. It's home to 687 industrial facilities and had 63 days of unhealthy air quality in 2024. There were nearly 50 sewage complaints per 100,000 residents, and over half a million pet-owning households also likely contribute to the overall smell.

Houston's odor beat out Los Angeles (No. 2) and New York City (No. 3).

El Paso No. 5 freshest city

Houston may have a stinky reputation, but it certainly doesn't represent Texas as a whole. Luckily, a West Texas city offers some redemption.

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El Paso ranked among the top five freshest cities, below Oakland and Virginia Beach. Prilla's data reveals it didn't record a single day of unhealthy air quality in 2024, despite having the most industrial facilities (75) and pet-owning households (158,009) among the top 10 cities.

Top 10 smelliest cities in the US

Prilla's study demonstrates that the bigger cities don't necessarily equate to more odor, as evident by Oakland's high freshness ranking. In fact, smaller cities may lack the infrastructure needed to combat odors. And though New York City's staggering pet ownership likely contributes to its lower freshness score, cities like El Paso prove pets aren't always to blame.

Urban odor can become more than just an inconvenience, Prilla warns. Persistent bad odors can prompt symptoms like headaches, nausea and respiratory irritation, which can be signs of bigger infrastructure problems affecting public health and quality of life. Areas with chronic odor issues can indicate broader environmental justice concerns, which disproportionately impact lower-income communities who find it difficult to relocate. Property values can also tank if homes are within view and/or smelling range of landfills.

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Here are America's smelliest cities (all measures represent the average per 100,000 people).

Rank City, State Landfills/Waste transfer stations Sewage complaints No. of industrial facilities within city Total unhealthy days Pet-owning households (estimated) Search volume (average, monthly) City freshness score 1 Houston, Texas 0.91 49.73 687 63 541,052 3.46 56.09 2 Los Angeles, California 0.72 62.36 113 134 797,930 2.67 57.56 3 New York, New York 0.25 79.62 33 24 1,577,656 1.14 59.60 4 Orlando, Florida 6.10 32.04 95 3 73,773 18.31 62.74 5 Riverside, California 1.25 25.95 26 164 68,007 18.76 62.74 6 Anaheim, California 2.99 26.29 29 134 71,142 14.94 63.24 7 Long Beach, California 1.15 31.61 111 134 92,822 13.74 65.25 8 Phoenix, Arizona 0.66 40.80 231 114 402,718 4.20 65.77 9 Portland, Oregon 5.23 31.85 183 6 159,969 9.80 66.97 10 Chicago, Illinois 0.92 62.33 274 17 513,027 3.08 67.43

Top 10 freshest cities in the US

Naturally, a city's region does impact its odor.

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"Western mountain cities and coastal locations dominate the fresh air rankings, while sprawling Sun Belt metros and dense Eastern cities populate the smelly end," Prilla's study explains. "Nevada alone claims two spots in the top 10 freshest cities, suggesting that desert climates and lower humidity help keep bad smells from lingering."

The country's freshest cities are as follows:

Rank City, State Landfills/Waste transfer stations Sewage complaints No. of industrial facilities within city Total unhealthy days Pet-owning households (estimated) Search volume (average, monthly) City freshness score 1 Reno, Nevada 1.071 18.56 15 4 67,569 3.57 90.2 2 Honolulu, Hawaii 1.490 26.22 35 0 66,118 0 89.2 3 Anchorage, Alaska 0.355 24.87 35 0 66,761 7.11 88.2 4 Oakland, California 0.695 29.90 8 0 91,754 4.64 87.9 5 El Paso, Texas 0.148 30.21 75 0 158,009 4.44 87.1 6 Virginia Beach, Virginia 0.671 20.12 15 0 111,507 11.18 86.2 7 Jersey City, New Jersey 0.345 24.14 4 24 55,263 10.34 85.0 8 Henderson, Nevada 1.150 18.41 18 40 83,870 5.75 85.0 9 Stockton, California 1.262 19.56 34 11 67,409 9.46 84.7 10 Lincoln Nebraska 0.677 19.64 68 0 83,115 13.54 83.9
A train derailed in North Texas Tuesday afternoon, sending several cars with possible hazardous material off the track and causing grass fires.

The incident occurred around 2 p.m., roughly two miles east of Gordon, a small city 71 miles west of Gordon. The train had been traveling over a railroad bridge on Coalville Road. Union Pacific Railroad reported about 35 train cars were involved, according to USA TODAY.

Union Pacific hazmat personnel and members of the Palo Pinto Fire Department arrived at the scene. Officials said no hazardous material had been leaked in the area, and Union Pacific initiated the cleanup process.

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"All personnel have been accounted for, and no injuries have been reported," Palo Pinto County emergency services said in a statement on social media. "The situation is currently stable, but not yet fully controlled."

While firefighters worked to put out grass fires, no structures were at risk and no evacuations were ordered, according to officials. Kent Farquhar, assistant fire chief for Palo Pinto County Emergency Service, expressed gratitude.

"Lots of reasons to be thankful," Farquhar told WFAA. "Derailments are always very fluid. You never know whats going to happen. They could be stable one moment and unstable the next."

Farquhar said the cars were carrying hydrochloric acid, propane and fuel.

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See aftermath video, photos of Texas train derailment

At least 35 cars of a Union Pacific freight train derailed Tuesday near a small Texas town, officials said.



No injuries were reported and no evacuations have been ordered following the afternoon derailment, Union Pacific spokeswoman Robynn Tysver said. pic.twitter.com/PcChMf5vfI  The Associated Press (@AP) August 13, 2025

TRAIN DERAILED IN NORTH TEXAS: Here's the scene from above, which shows mangled train cars piled up off the tracks, heavy smoke, and fire trucks on the side of the tracks.



STORY: https://t.co/QLjo48Sblw pic.twitter.com/sKNrVE4ZJY  WFAA (@wfaa) August 12, 2025

 USA TODAY and WFAA contributed to this report.
Sniff. Cough. Groan. It might feel like many people you know have a summer cold or even COVID-19, if they've bothered to take an at-home test or go to a local clinic.

And you could be right.

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Some Central Texas doctor's offices and care centers have noticed the annual summer COVID-19 spike in cases has been happening in the past few weeks. It could be happening with new variants making their way into our area, said Dr. Zachary Cerini, medical director for St. Davids CareNow Urgent Care.

This spike also happens when people travel, kids go to different summer camps and are around different people, and just because more mingling takes place during the summer.

Two sets of data also indicate there is a rise in disease happening right now.

Current COVID-19 wastewater levels show a high level of disease in Texas last week. Provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts COVID-19 found in the wastewater in the "high" range in Texas. Locally, one of the two testing sites in Travis County and both of the sites in Hays County have a "very high" mark. The CDC does not have wastewater data for Williamson or Bastrop counties. Having a high level in the wastewater means that many people with COVID-19 have used the bathroom in our area. It does not give exact case numbers.

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The other indicator the CDC uses is the number of cases coming into hospital emergency departments. It looks at all respiratory illnesses, which include COVID-19, flu and RSV. The flu and RSV cases here are very low and are not increasing or decreasing, but for COVID, cases are increasing, while remaining low in Travis, Williamson and Bastrop, and moderate in Hays County.

Because that emergency department rating says "low" doesn't mean there isn't a lot of COVID right now. It just means that the virus that is circulating is not causing a lot of people to need to go to the emergency room.

"It could be underreported," said Dr. Manish Naik, the chief medical officer and chief medical information officer at Austin Regional Clinic.

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Dr. Michael Stefanowicz, CommUnityCare's associate chief medical officer, said his clinics haven't seen an increase in cases because "many who might be infected with mild to moderate symptoms may write these symptoms off and, given summer months, may be less inclined to think of respiratory pathogens as a cause of their illness or even seek testing."

He also points out that people who received their COVID booster in the fall might be experiencing waning immunity and then become infected with COVID.

What are the current symptoms of COVID?

The symptoms have been very similar to earlier strains, this XFG strain known as Stratus has been known to cause more hoarseness in the voice. It is fever, headache, cough, runny nose, sore throat and other general cold symptoms.

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"One of the things we've seen is that with each new strain of COVID-19, the symptoms are less aggressive," said Dr. Edgar Garza, a pediatrician with Harbor Health.

Our bodies also are better able to handle COVID-19 now because it's not a new virus to us and people have been vaccinated, Naik said. "There's a lot more immunity in the population," he said.

Where Garza and others worry are symptoms in people who already have a complicating condition: those who are smokers, are pregnant or who are younger than 5 or older than 65, or if you are around someone in these high risk groups and could infect them.

"It's like influenza," Naik said. "We still have people that die from flu every year. We don't want to discount it as nothing to worry about."

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And like the flu, "occasionally even young healthy individuals can get very sick with these infections."

If you are having severe symptoms that are not improving such as difficulty breathing, or you are in a high-risk category, you should be seeing a doctor, Cerini said.

Should you still test for COVID?

Yes. While COVID is the prevalent virus happening right now, other summer colds are happening. Having the information helps you make informed decisions about whether you should stay home or isolate. It also helps you know that what you have is not allergies and probably not a sinus infection or other reasons for your symptoms. For people who are early in the virus and who are at high risk for complications, they also can start antiviral medications.

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COVID-19 tests can be picked up at any grocery story or pharmacy. Mikala Compton/American-Statesman

What should you do if you do have COVID?

You should stay at home until you are at least 24 hours fever-free and the symptoms are improving. It's now the same advice as any cold or flu. Also, best practice is to wear a mask around other people for five days, even if you no longer have a fever. Your ability to spread disease continues for those five days, but is lessened after the fever has passed.

Treat the symptoms with over-the-counter medications, but seeks medical help if you have having trouble breathing or chest pain or any other symptom that goes beyond a typical cold or flu.

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Are COVID vaccinations still recommended?

Doctors, in consultation with their patients, are still recommending annual COVID-19 vaccinations along with the flu shot in September and October. People at high risk, including being 65 or older, should consider getting a COVID-19 vaccine every six months.

This year's COVID-19 and flu vaccines for more recent strains are expected to be in pharmacies and doctor's offices by mid-September.

These vaccines don't mean that you won't get COVID-19 or flu, but that your symptoms could be decreased and your changes of complications such as hospitalization or long COVID are lessened. Long COVID, which is a series of lingering symptoms, has been seen in as many as 1 in 10 people infected with COVID, Stefanowicz said. Data also indicates the COVID-19 vaccine can lessen adverse heart disease.

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"Based on study and experience, there's very little downside," Naik said of vaccination. "The benefit outweighs the risk."

Nurse Lola Ogundare prepares Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations at an Austin Public Health vaccine clinic. This year's flu and COVID-19 vaccines are expected to arrive in September. Jay Janner/American-Statesman

Will COVID-19 cases decrease soon?

Nope. As kids start back to school, they will be in contact with more people and start sharing the disease with their new friends. Remind kids to wash their hands regularly, including before eating, and to not share drinks or food with friends.

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If do become sick, stay home until the fever has left for at least 24 hours. Consider wearing a mask for five days after the symptoms started.

"We recommend every parent talk to their healthcare provider about the COVID vaccine for themselves and their families," Stefanowicz said. "Vaccines on shelves don't do much to prevent disease. Vaccine in arms do."

What else is popping up right now?

Garza is seeing more whooping cough. Also known as pertussis, whooping cough has a vaccine and was almost eradicated. Most of the cases Garza has seen have been in unvaccinated children. That disease can be deadly in infants too young to be vaccinated.

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Australian energy infrastructure developer Venice Energy has entered into a sale agreement for its liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project to AG&P LNG, an LNG terminals and downstream infrastructure company and subsidiary of US-based Nebula Energy.

This deal follows eight months of complex negotiations, culminating in a binding term sheet signed in October last year.

Venice Energy is spearheading the LNG terminal project in South Australia.

AG&P LNG will take over 100% of the financing, construction and operation of the terminal, as per the agreement.

The South Australian Government has already given the green light to the terminal and site enabling works were concluded earlier this year.

A final investment decision for the project is anticipated later this year, with the regasification terminal set to enhance energy security for South Australia from 2028 and address potential gas supply deficits in the south-east of the country.

Venice Energy chair Kym Winter-Dewhirst said: Firstly, the regasification terminal will provide energy security to South Australia from 2028 onwards and secondly help alleviate forecast shortfalls in the gas supply market along the south-east of Australia.

Over the past eight months, Venice Energy and AG&P LNG have collaborated closely to secure offtake customers via a mix of long-term and short-to-midterm gas sales agreements.

The project, situated at Outer Harbor in Port Adelaide, will feature a floating storage and regasification unit with a minimum capacity of around 145,000m, alongside the construction of two new wharfs, loading arms, cryogenic piping, pumps and related infrastructure.

"Venice Energy to sell SA LNG terminal project to AG&P LNG" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




ALDI's incoming "Store #40" location will be at 850 N. Bell Blvd., Ste. No. 104 in the City of Cedar Park, which is situated just 20 miles from downtown Austin. Courtesy of H-E-B, Albany Times Union

Look out, H-E-B: A new grocery store is in town! Popular German grocery store chain Aldi is opening a new location in the Austin area, its latest move in expanding its presence in Central Texas.

Here's what to know

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Aldi coming to Cedar Park

Aldi has plans to build a $1.75 million new store in Cedar Park just down the road from a H-E-B, according to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing. Construction on the nearly 24,000-square-foot store is slated to begin Sept. 22 and be completed in February. The Austin Business Journal reports that Aldi will sit on a former Big Lots property.

The project will involve replacing the building's sign and siding, adding or relocating openings, and installing a new freezer, cooler, HVAC system and electricity package as typical components of an Aldi store.

Where will the new Aldi be?

Aldi will prepare a new store at 350 N. Bell Blvd, Suite 104, per the TDLR filing. Just across East Whitestone Boulevard is a H-E-B, one of three Cedar Park locations. Plus Trader Joe's, which originated from the same German business as Aldi, has a potential store location less than two miles down the boulevard.

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How many Aldi, H-E-B stores does Texas have?

While Aldi hasn't officially confirmed the new Cedar Park location, it would align with the chain's U.S. expansion. The company's current five-year growth strategy involves opening more than 800 new stores by the end of 2028. Of those, 200 will open this year  more than any other grocery store chain, according to The New York Times.

There are currently 2,567 Aldi locations in the U.S., per the chain's website. This year's planned openings would make it the third-largest supermarket chain according to number of stores, behind Kroger and Walmart. Texas claims the fifth-most Aldi locations among U.S. states, with 128 stores.

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Meanwhile, the Lone Star State is the only state with H-E-B stores, with a whopping 340 locations.
Texas Rep. Al Green, left, and State Representative Ramon Romero, Jr. talk after a news conference in Aurora, Ill., on Tuesday, Aug 5. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley) Erin Hooley/Associated Press

Texas Democrats continue to reject Republicans mid-decade redistricting push, which could deliver five additional U.S. House seats to the GOP. The Democratic lawmakers, who fled Texas to deny the state House a quorum on the proposed congressional map, argue the plan would disenfranchise the states fast-growing Hispanic population.

They're silencing Latino voices and keeping us from the most powerful legislative body in the world, Rep. Ramon Romero Jr., chair of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, said at a news conference in Chicago, where Hispanic Texas House members have been staying to block a vote. Let's be clear, this map slices and dices our neighborhoods, from the Rio Grande Valley to Dallas-Fort Worth, from Houston to Central Texas.

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The proposed map, however, would increase the overall number of majority-Hispanic districts in Texas by one. The shift lies in which voters will hold influence: liberal-leaning Hispanics in urban areas would be dispersed into more rural districts, while Republican-leaning Hispanics in rural areas would have more power to elect like-minded representatives.

The new districts empower Hispanic Republicans in a way that some of the old districts empowered Hispanic Democrats, said Mark Jones, a Rice University professor who has conducted electoral analysis on Texas Hispanic voters.

One example of this, Jones said, could be the proposed 9th Congressional District, which would stretch from the heavily Hispanic and working-class eastern Houston suburbs to exurban northern Harris County. This seat would come at the cost of the predominantly Hispanic 29th district, currently held by U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, where Latino Democrats were often able to pick the candidate of their choice. In the proposed 9th district, Texas Republican leadership will likely back a Hispanic Republican candidate to energize Hispanic conservative voters and others in the district.

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The 9th district and two other Democratic-held districts that the GOP hopes to flip will become both more Hispanic and more Republican as the party seeks to push regions that tilted rightward in the 2024 election even further in that direction. One is U.S. Rep. Greg Casars current district, District 35, where Republican map-drawers are hoping to cut out Austin voters and center the district southeast of San Antonio. Another is the 28th district, currently held by Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar.

U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, D-Austin, protests the Republican plan for Congressional redistricting outside the Governors Mansion in Austin, Monday, Aug. 4. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Casar told NPR that he was concerned that the new maps would leave the Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan areas without a Hispanic opportunity district, or one crafted to allow Hispanic voters to determine the outcome of a race. Democrats have also complained that the proposed redistricting removes one of two Houston seats intended to give Black voters the same power  the seat currently held by Rep. Al Green.

Casars statement highlights Democrats' frustration with the dilution of urban Hispanic voters, who continue to support their party in large numbers.

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Republicans have rejected claims that their redistricting proposal dilutes the voting power of specific racial or ethnic groups, noting that their map creates new Hispanic-majority districts even as it eliminates others. Federal courts have allowed gerrymandering for partisan advantage but not on the basis of race.

Blame, blame, blame. That's all the Democrats do, veteran GOP political operative Wayne Hamilton said of Democrats claims that the maps disenfranchise Latino voters. It's always somebody else's fault. (The Democrats) need to get to work and shut their mouths.

Hamilton leads Project Red TX, a group that recruits and supports Republican candidates in South Texas. The former Republican Party of Texas executive director said hes confident Latino voters in the region will continue trending right in upcoming elections and argues the map gives them more power.

Texas Hispanics are a diverse and shifting political bloc, and political demographers say they at times vote more like their non-Hispanic neighbors than like Hispanics in other parts of the state.

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Brandon Rottinghaus, a University of Houston political science professor, said the new maps suggest Republicans are betting on the fracturization of the Latino vote on lines of gender, age and geography  in a way that could make Latino voters resemble Anglo voters in the future..

The House Chamber at the Capitol in Austin, Tuesday, Aug. 5, shortly before the session began. A quorum was not present after most Democrat state representatives left Texas to break quorum and block a vote on a Republican plan for Congressional redistricting. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Democrats concern, he added, is that the new maps could make them exclusively an urban party, with their areas of growth packed tightly into districts they already control.

A Statesman analysis of demographic data for the existing and proposed congressional districts found that nine districts now have a majority Hispanic voting-age population.

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Under the new maps, Hispanics would make up the majority of eligible voters in one additional district, bringing the total to 10 of 37 districts where more than half of the voting population is of Hispanic descent.

Jones cautioned that a slim Hispanic majority among eligible voters does not guarantee that Hispanics will be the dominant force in an election. White voters, he noted, still turn out at much higher rates than Hispanic voters.

University of Houston political scientist Jeronimo Cortina cautioned that more Latino-majority districts do not necessarily translate to improved, or complete, representation for Latino voters.

The current congressional map is problematic, he said, noting it is still tied up in a lawsuit alleging that it violates the Voting Rights Act by disenfranchising voters of color. The case went to trial in May. The loss of incumbents could also hurt districts by removing officials familiar with the needs of their districts, he said.

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Cortina added that partisan gerrymandering  the practice of grouping voters for political advantage hurts representation for all Americans.
Ann Patterson of Bee Cave joins protesters Aug. 4 outside the Governor's Mansion to oppose the Republican plan for Congressional redistricting. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Let's talk numbers

The Texas redistricting theater is long past the point of absurdity. Perhaps numbers will place this in perspective.

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The partisan breakdown in Texas in 2025 was about 55% Republicans and 45% Democrats.

Republicans currently have a 66% to 33% majority in Texas' delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives.

With the current redistricting proposal, the Republican majority would change to 79%.

With a recent threat from Gov. Greg Abbott to add even more GOP-leaning seats to the map, this Republican majority would be swollen to as much as 87%,

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I will leave it to others to provide the sarcasm.

Paul Robbins, Austin

GOP failed Texans

I applaud Texas Democrats for breaking quorum.

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The special session should be devoted to solving real problems for Texans, not indulging an unpopular president afraid of losing. It is cheating to redraw the congressional district lines outside the normal 10 year census count, especially just to elect more Republicans.

What is so great about electing more Republicans anyway? In Texas, they failed to provide simple inexpensive flood warning systems years ago. Thanks to Republican cruelty, pregnant women in Texas have to flee the state for health care.

Jenny Clark, Austin

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Voters are watching

Gov. Greg Abbott wants to have the Texas Supreme Court remove state Rep. Gene Wu from office for leading the protest that, according to Abbott, "deprives the House of the quorum needed to meet and conduct business on behalf of Texans." Really? Since when are Abbott and Republican lawmakers for Texans when they blatantly gerrymander the congressional district maps to give the GOP five more seats that President Donald Trump says they're "entitled to"?

This blatant disregard for the intent of this country's founding fathers is mind blowing. In fact, a Baptist minister even wrote a guest commentary in the Statesman objecting to the in-classroom display of the Ten Commandments, which violates separation of church and state, since it involves public schools that are government-funded.

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Ultimately, the voters will provide a day of reckoning for all of them.

Bob Gutentag, Austin

Former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke speaks July 24 during the Fight The Trump Takeover Rally at the Texas Capitol. O'Rourke's political organization, Powered by People, has provided support to Texas House Democrats who left the state to break quorum. Sara Diggins, Austin American-Statesman

Look up Citizens United

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Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton said his office is investigating whether Democrat Beto O'Rourke's political organization, Powered by People, violated the law by covering some of the costs for Texas House Democrats who broke quorum.

The money that Powered by People paid in upfront costs for travel and lodging for the Texas Democrats is political speech. Money is speech, remember?

Caren Floyd, Austin

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Humana Inc. (HUM) is a leading U.S. health insurance company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with a market cap of about $33.1 billion. Operating in the healthcare sector, specifically within the managed healthcare industry, Humana offers a broad portfolio of medical and specialty insurance products, with a strong focus on Medicare Advantage plans.

The company serves millions of members nationwide through its Insurance and CenterWell segments, which encompass health services, pharmacy solutions, and primary care.

More News from Barchart

The medicare giants 2025 journey has been a steady cruise so far, with its shares up about 8.4% year-to-date (YTD) - enough to show strength - though still a step behind the S&P 500 Indexs ($SPX) 9.6% gain. However, HUM stock shines in its own lane, easily outperforming the SPDR S&P Health Care Services ETF (XHS), which gained just 2.9% over the same period.

But widen the lens to the past 52 weeks, and the picture shifts. HUM is down by 21.1%, not just lagging behind the SPXs 20.6% gains, but also XHS, which dipped by 1.6%.

www.barchart.com

The stock has recently regained momentum following its mixed second-quarter report released on July 30, with adjusted EPS of $6.27, compared to the prior-year quarter value of $6.96, while revenue climbed to $32.4 billion.

Investors rejoiced as the company raised its full-year EPS outlook to around $17 and forecasted revenue of at least $128 billion, driven by improved Medicare Advantage retention, stabilized medical costs, and continued growth in its CenterWell Pharmacy segment.

While the broader healthcare sector has been weighed down by rising medical costs, regulatory pressures, and a pullback in medicare advantage expansion, Humanas operational improvements and upbeat guidance have boosted investor confidence, setting it apart from sector peers.

For the current fiscal year, ending in December 2025, analysts expect HUM to report EPS growth of 4.8% YoY to $16.99, on a diluted basis. The company has a decent track record of beating Wall Streets estimates, topping consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
Nutrien Ltd. (NYSE:NTR) is one of the best commodity stocks to buy. On July 17, 2025, Wells Fargo reiterated its Equal Weight rating on the company while nudging its price target from $59 to $62. Though the rating remained unchanged, the upward revision suggests a slight improvement in Wells Fargos view of Nutriens near-term prospects.

The modest target hike likely reflects stable pricing conditions in fertilizer markets or incremental signs of margin recovery after a challenging period for the ag sector. Still, the decision to hold the line on a neutral rating points to lingering caution, perhaps tied to global demand uncertainty or tight cash flows.

Wells Fargo Edges Up Nutrien (NYSE:NTR) Price Target, Keeps Cautious Stance Amid Fertilizer Market Recovery

wk1003mike/Shutterstock.com

Wells Fargos position aligns with a broader analyst consensus that sees Nutrien as fundamentally solid, but not yet primed for a breakout. The price target increase may signal confidence in operational execution or pricing discipline, but likely stops short of a bullish call due to structural headwinds or capital allocation concerns.

Nutrien (NYSE:NTR) is the worlds largest provider of crop inputs and services, with a strong presence in potash, nitrogen, and phosphate production. Headquartered in Saskatoon, Canada, the company serves growers across North and South America, Australia, and beyond.

While we acknowledge the potential of NTR 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.
Bucharest acting Mayor Stelian Bujduveanu and Israeli ambassador to Romania Lior Ben Dor met on Wednesday at the City Hall offices, highlighting on the occasion the shared desire to strengthen existing partnerships and identify new cooperation opportunities.

"The meeting was an excellent opportunity for an open and constructive dialogue. We emphasized the importance of exchanging best practices and constant cooperation in areas of joint interest, based on mutual respect and trust. The discussions highlighted the desire of both parties to strengthen existing partnerships and identify new cooperation opportunities," Stelian Bujduveanu wrote on Facebook on Wednesday.

He said that Bucharest remains open to partnerships that contribute to "the sustainable development of the city and the consolidation of its position on the international stage."

Stelian Bujduveanu thanked the ambassador of the State of Israel for the openness and interest shown in supporting projects that add value to the life of Bucharest.
The number of employees working in A & B Class office buildings in Bucharest exceeded 340,000 at the end of H1 2025, accounting for around 30% of the total workforce in the Capital, while companies contracted office spaces corresponding to more than 7,000 new employees in H1, according to the Office Marketbeat Q2 2025 report released by the Cushman & Wakefield Echinox real estate consultancy company on Wednesday.





According to the report, the net take-up (excluding renegotiations) totaling 64,300 sq. m.Based on the distribution of existing office buildings across Bucharest, the Center - West area hosts the highest number of employees, approximately 65,000, followed by Floreasca - Barbu Vacarescu with 60,000, and Center with almost 50,000.Although these projects may signal a development activity recovery, the overall pipeline remains well below the market's potential, a market which registered an annual average of 153,000 sq. m of new office spaces completed over the past decade.After a slower Q1 with only 51,300 sq. m being transacted, demand started to accelerate in Q2, rising by 37% to a level of 70,100 sq. m.The net take-up (excluding renegotiations) had a robust share of 53% in the overall H1 demand, while the vacancy rate in Bucharest continued its downward trend, reaching 13.4% (the lowest level since Q2 2021)."Vacancy is expected to further decrease by the end of the year, as no new office buildings are scheduled for delivery in 2025, while the new demand will mainly target the vacant spaces in existing buildings," the report says.No significant rental movements were recorded in Q2, as levels between EUR 20.00 - 21.00/ sq. m/ month were the norm in CBD (the most expensive office subzone in Bucharest), while the benchmarks for other submarkets ranged between EUR 15.00 - 18.00/ sq. m/ month and EUR 9.00 - 13.50/ sq. m/ month in central/ semi - central and peripheral locations.Limited rental growth is expected in more landlord - favorable submarkets such as CBD or Center, areas with very low vacancy rates and with different profiles than the other more tenant - dominant parts of the city.'The Bucharest office market remains solid, even amid a temporary decline of the overall demand. The interest in modern, efficient, and well-located spaces, especially in central areas and in CBD is high, submarkets where the vacancy rates are constantly reaching new lows. With no new deliveries anticipated in 2025, the current market conditions create a favourable context for the absorption of existing spaces, while they may drive moderate rent increases in areas with limited availability. We expect demand to stabilize, with continued momentum for relocations and portfolio optimization by year-end,' says Madalina Cojocaru, Partner, Office Agency C&W Echinox.Cushman & Wakefield Echinox is a leading real estate consulting company on the local market and the exclusive affiliate of Cushman & Wakefield in Romania, owned and operated independently.Cushman & Wakefield is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of USD 9.4 billion across its core service lines of Services, Leasing, Capital markets, and Valuation and other.
Minister of Development, Public Works and Administration Cseke Attila stated on Wednesday in Harghita county that the Anghel Saligny National Programme will continue, solutions being sought to fund as many investment projects as possible.

Minister Cseke Attila attended the inauguration of DJ 137 county road, which connects Odorheiu Secuiesc and Cristuru Secuiesc, fully rehabilitated through the Anghel Saligny programme.

"County roads were included in the Saligny programme following the methodology we approved in 2021. We believed that it was important for county roads to receive funding through the Anghel Saligny programme and this road (DJ 137) is one of the results of that decision. The programme continues. This year, this month, (...) we will make a payment of 600 million lei for invoices currently at the ministry, and we hope that within the Government, the coalition, we shall find solutions to continue as many investment projects as possible in 2025 as well," Cseke Attila stated.

He mentioned that 35pct of the most advanced projects, in terms of reimbursement rate, are secured with funding through the end of 2025, while solutions are still being sought for the remaining 65pct.

He also referred to investment funding through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

"This week, the Ministry of Development made significant payments for investments under the PNRR. We plan to continue making payments, hopefully tomorrow, and next week as well. At the government level, investment payments have been prioritized in order to ensure that PNRR projects can be paid. The Development Ministry has an important group of 6,000 investment objectives under the PNRR and we are doing everything possible to secure funding for these as well," Cseke Attila added.

Vice Prime Minister Tanczos Barna also attended the event and tested the bicycle path built as part of the project. He highlighted the importance of the programme, stating that it transforms the life of rural communities and it's essential that the programme be further supported.

He also spoke about the need for predictability in investment programme funding, such as the Anghel Saligny programme.

"Predictability is the most important thing. I said the same in January-February when we were drafting the 2025 budget, and I'm saying it again now. For the second half of the year, and for 2026, 2027 and 2028, we need predictability, we have signed contracts, there are entrepreneurs, business owners and companies that depend on these contracts, there are hundreds of thousands of jobs linked to these programme. We cannot afford to cancel them, that's exactly why, predictably, year after year, we must ensure funding for Anghel Saligny, so that within three years, we can conclude, complete the programme and improve living standards in rural areas," Vice Prime Minister Tanczos Barna concluded.

The inauguration was also attended by the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR) Chairman Kelemen Hunor, Harghita County Council President Biro Barna Botond, as well as by many others, some of whom chose to test the bicycle path, which, according to County Council representatives, is the first in Harghita to be usable outside urban areas.

DJ 137 county road, which connects Odorheiu Secuiesc and Cristuru Secuiesc, has 21.2 kilometers and is considered one of the most important in the county. It was fully rehabilitated under a project won by the Harghita County Council and funded through the Anghel Saligny Programme. The estimated value of the investment exceeds 190 million lei.
In an official statement regarding the current context of the independence of the Romanian judiciary and the status of judges and prosecutors, the professional association Magistrats Europeens pour la Democratie et les Libertes (MEDEL) strongly condemns the constant campaign to denigrate the Romanian judicial system, the Supreme Council of Magistrates (CSM) said on Wednesday.

"In its message, MEDEL strongly condemns the ongoing campaign to denigrate the Romanian judiciary, a campaign which, according to the organization, was relaunched in July 2025 by the ruling parties under the pretext of cutting the budget deficit. The organization warns that this sentiment of political hostility, fomented including by high-ranking officials, threatens the independence of the judiciary, erodes public trust and affects the legitimacy of the judicial system - a key component of the rule of law," the CSM said in a release.

Also, MEDEL brings to mind its previous positions on Romania and calls on the authorities to fully respect international standards regarding the independence of the judiciary and the freedom of expression, as set out in the opinions and recommendations of European and international institutions, the CSM notes, adding that MEDEL referenced in particular Opinion No. 18 (2025) of the Consultative Council of European Judges, underlining that unbalanced critical commentary by politicians is irresponsible, undermines public trust and may constitute attacks on the constitutional order, in particular with regard to the separation of state powers.

"The statement draws attention to the fact that over the past three years, the constant campaign of vilification of the magistrates, combined with repeated and substantial amendments to the statutes of judges and prosecutors, affects their ability to exercise their job independently and undermines the principles of legal stability and predictability. MEDEL also warns that hate speech and public humiliation can encourage disobedience to court rulings and even violence against representatives of the judiciary, who are falsely portrayed as the main cause of budgetary constraints," the cited source added.

At the same time, MEDEL calls on the Romanian authorities to respect international standards and to cease pressure tactics that destabilize and delegitimize the judicial system, the CSM goes on to note, saying that it is "essential" that the messages sent by international professional organizations are known by the public opinion, as they emphasize the importance of safeguarding the independence of justice, respect for the status of magistrates and of maintaining an institutional dialogue based on responsibility and good faith.
Key Points

Curaleaf's Q2 numbers weren't all that impressive.

However, the U.S. market showed some signs of stabilization.

Curaleaf's international business is booming.

10 stocks we like better than Curaleaf 

Shares of Curaleaf Holdings (OTC: CURLF) were jumping 13.2% higher at 11:11 a.m. ET on Monday. The big gain appeared to be due to continued momentum for the Connecticut-based cannabis company after it announced second-quarter results following market close on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

Since Curaleaf's Q2 update, its share price has soared more than 20%. The marijuana stock is up almost 180% since it announced the buyout of its minority partner in Curaleaf International.

How good were those Q2 results?

But Curaleaf's Q2 update didn't seem all that great -- at least, not at first glance.

The company's net revenue tumbled 8% year over year to $314.5 billion. Its net loss from continuing operations worsened, from $48.6 million in the second quarter of 2024 to $50.6 million in the recent quarter. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) also fell by 9.7% year over year to $65.5 million.

But investors seem to be focusing on what appears to be stabilization in the U.S. cannabis market (domestic revenue increased from the first quarter of 2025) combined with Curaleaf's strong momentum in international markets. The company's international sales could grow even more thanks to its recently receiving a license to operate in Turkey.

Image source: Getty Images.

Is Curaleaf stock a buy?

I'm not convinced that Curaleaf stock is a great pick for most investors, though. The company remains unprofitable. It still faces headwinds in the U.S. market, which represents roughly 87% of total revenue. Perhaps Curaleaf's Q2 update momentum will continue, but I won't be surprised if the sizzle for this cannabis stock soon fizzles out.

Should you invest $1,000 in Curaleaf right now?

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Romania's economic growth is losing momentum, with investments down 30% in the first five months, requiring readiness for a potential recession at any time, Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare said Wednesday.

When asked by journalists about the possibility of a recession in Romania, Nazare stressed that it is a real risk.

"It is a real risk, and we must be ready with solutions and measures to make any potential recession as smooth as possible. We should already have been prepared, as economic growth has slowed every year for the past four years. It was not hard to foresee a downturn if we analyzed the annual decline. And if you look at what the Fiscal Council has said at every budget adoption and every budget revision, as well as what many analysts have said  we have many good analysts in Romania  they have warned about these issues. They have warned precisely so that we could take counter-cyclical measures and set aside resources to stimulate the economy in such situations. What I can say is that I will do everything possible to find resources so we are prepared, even in the current context we are going through. But I must say it is extremely difficult," added Nazare.

Based on current data, the Finance Minister described the economy as stagnant, adding that any potential contraction would be minor if European funds are absorbed. He stressed that Romania could maintain balance by accelerating the use of these funds.

"Today we are talking about stagnation. I do not want to speculate. It is very hard to assess the direction we will take. Even if we discuss an economic contraction, I don't believe it will be significant if we manage to absorb the funds we are set to receive. The key is to focus on these funds and spend them at a much faster pace than we have until now. I believe this is how we will maintain balance. It is very important to avoid a recession because a recession would mean higher financing costs and a completely different scenario than the one we are experiencing today," he explained.

The minister also stressed that the first fiscal package, adopted in July, had positive effects because it allowed the protection of European funds.

"This governing coalition adopted Package 1, which had positive effects because it allowed us, first of all, to safeguard European funds, block the letter from the Council in its original form, and stop penalties on European funds that would have been applied starting in 2026. Package 1 also allowed us to reconfirm our rating, even ahead of the S&P assessment. I remind you that S&P did not have the report scheduled now; it was scheduled for the fall, and they moved it forward and reconfirmed the rating. A very important achievement. It is true that, according to other analyses and agencies and the Commission, the challenge is to maintain consistency in implementing these measures and not stop at Package 1. We need full consolidation from start to finish. For this, we need Package 2 and all other measures. I believe this needs to be discussed within the coalition with all coalition leaders, and we will reach a consensus because I do not believe any coalition leader wants Romania to be penalized in the October evaluation. The risks are far too high for Romania to face penalties in October," warned the Finance minister.
The German Air Force detachment is taking over the Enhanced Air Policing mission in the southern area for the next eight months, operating from the Mihail Kogalniceanu military base with five Eurofighter aircraft and approximately 170 soldiers, the German Embassy in Bucharest announced.





"On 12.08.2025, at the Mihail Kogalniceanu military base, near the city of Constanta, the certification ceremony of the German detachment for NATO's Enhanced Air Policing mission in the southern area [eAPS - enhanced Air Policing South] took place in the presence of representatives of the Romanian Air Force, NATO AIRCOM and the German Embassy in Bucharest. Thus, the German detachment officially begins its eight-month mission. In total, the German Air Force is participating in this mission with five Eurofighter aircraft and approximately 170 soldiers. Thus, Germany supports for the fourth time its close ally, Romania, within NATO's eAPS mission to ensure airspace surveillance on the south-eastern flank of the Alliance," according to the German Embassy release.Major General Michael Hogrebe stated that the Air Force, along with other Bundeswehr structures contributing to the eAPS mission, takes pride in sending a visible signal which proves the determination to defend every inch of the Alliance's territory. He thanked the hosts from the Romanian Air Force for the professional welcome of the German detachment and for their continued hospitality.
Health Minister Alexandru Rogobete announced that he was adamant to refer today the case of the Severe Burn Center of the Floreasca Emergency Clinical Hospital to the Prosecutor's Office, after recent inspections revealed a string of law violations.

"Last week I ordered a new, this time purely administrative control by the Bucharest Public Health Directorate, to look into how this Center was authorized. Today I got the report and I tell you that I almost fell off my chair. The findings are outrageous, which is why tomorrow it will be sent to the Prosecutor's Office, because what is stated there exceeds by far the administrative competence of the Ministry, and because from my point of view there are certain (...) findings that fall into the criminal area. (...) The control body highlighted that what appears in the technical memorandum signed by the former hospital manager does not match the situation on site. (...) For this reason, I am submitting the report of the Control Body, the report of the State Sanitary Inspection and the report of the Bucharest Public Health Directorate to the Prosecutor's Office. I signed the necessary documents today, the report will be sent to the Prosecutor's Office tomorrow,'' the minister declared on Euronews Romania on Tuesday evening.

According to Rogobete, the Floreasca Severe Burn Center should not have been authorized at all.

The minister also announced that all centers in the country that treat severe burn patients will be verified.

He specified that he will strip the Floreasca Hospital's department of the title of Severe Burn Center, demoting it to functional unit for serious burns.
A new edition of the Kuriozum Festival, which celebrates cultural diversity, will take place from 15-17 August at Mikes Castle in Zabala, with the event set to open with a performance by renowned violinist Alexandru Tomescu.





Held during the Perseids meteor shower, the festival offers a unique combination of genres and artistic styles in a relaxed atmosphere amidst nature, according to a press release sent to AGERPRES by the organisers.Over the course of the three-day festival, attendees will also enjoy visual art exhibitions, fashion design showcases, musical instrument displays, horse riding, equestrian parades and demonstrations, as well as interactive activities for children.The event will open on Friday, 15 August, at 7:00 PM, with Alexandru Tomescu performing on the Stradivarius Elder Voicu violin, accompanied by guitarist Dragos Ilie.There will also be an equestrian show, led by Paulina von Hardenberg and Iulia Tat, as well as a guided tour of the spectacular Mikes Estate in Zabala.Kuriozum evenings will end 'as among friends.' with artists and spectators gathering around the fire, and with an after-party hosted by Aylin Cadir - musical curator and actress at the National Theatre in Bucharest.Visitors will also have the opportunity to attend astronomical observations, guided by Csere Mihaly, during the spectacular meteor shower.Access to the event begins at 12:00 PM each day, and entry is free for children under 14.
In a message delivered in anticipation of the Romanian Migrants' Sunday marked on August 17, Patriarch Daniel of the Romanian Orthodox Church calls for the "religious" preservation of the Romanian language, faith and identity.

"The Romanian Migrants' Sunday reminds us that, although physically far from their homeland, Romanians are united in spirit with their loved ones through Church services and cultural traditions. In their hearts, home is not just a place, but a state of mind of communion with their roots, with their inherited values and with those who longingly await for them. The Romanian Orthodox Church stands by the Romanians abroad through prayer and pastoral work, through its parishes and missions, providing support, light and comfort, and serving as a living bridge between generations," the Patriarch emphasizes.

The Primate of the Romanian Orthodox Church advises prayer, love for parents, nation and God.

"We beseech you to religiously preserve our Romanian language, faith and identity. Do not forget that prayer, love for parents, nation and God know no boundaries. Wherever you are, you remain sons and daughters of the same Church and the same blessed nation. We pray to the Most Holy Trinity that this day, Romanian Migrants' Sunday, may be an occasion of joy for us, of reunion with our loved ones who remained back home, of strengthening in faith and of remembrance of those who have moved to the Kingdom of Heaven," His All-Holiness Daniel also said.

The Patriarch recalls that 2025, declared by the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church as the Year of Tribute to the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate and the Commemorative Year of the 20th-century Romanian Orthodox confessors and spiritual fathers, represents "a unique moment" in the history of the Romanian Orthodox Church.

"This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but also a call to gratitude towards our ancestors and a reflection on the role of our Church in the life of the Romanian people. Throughout its 100 years of existence, the Romanian Patriarchate has been an unquenchable torch of faith and national unity, and the Romanian Orthodox spiritual fathers and confessors of the 20th century were true defenders of the Orthodox faith in the face of trials and persecutions," the Patriarch emphasizes.

He also had "a word of gratitude and appreciation" for all the servants of the holy altars in the diaspora, hierarchs, priests and deacons, for their rich pastoral, missionary and social activity "in the times of instability today's society is wading through, as well as for all the Romanian Orthodox believers overseas, for their steadfast love for the Country and the Mother Church."
Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, in a working meeting with representatives of the 36 institutions subordinated to the Government, requested them to submit their reorganization proposals, efficiency improvement and performance indicators by August 22, with the Executive set to follow up with a legislative package regarding the reorganization of these structures by the end of August.





According to a Government release, the Prime Minister underscored that the Government will implement three main directions on optimizing Romania's budget: reducing operating expenses, including the personnel costs, increasing efficiency of budget revenue collection and prioritizing investments.In this context, the Prime Minister requested his dialogue partners to "make a proper calculation."Furthermore, he requested the institutions to analyze the integration of digitalization solutions in order to become more efficient, taking into account that individual solutions lead to service isolation and increased costs.
European railways are experiencing their highest passenger numbers since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Youngsters are taking advantage of an EU initiative that promotes this environmentally friendly mode of transport.

Plane, car, bus, and boat - there are many ways to travel in and around Europe. But one mode of transport is gaining significant popularity, especially among young people: the train.

According to the European Union's statistical office, Eurostat, in 2023 EU rail passenger transport hit its highest level in years, with passengers travelling a total distance of 429 billion kilometres by train.

Across Europe, excitement for train travel has been consistent since after the Covid-19 pandemic, which officially began in March 2020. In 2023, rail passenger transport in the EU increased by 11.2 percent compared to 2022 and almost doubled in comparison with 2020.

"International long-distance travel is booming," said Michael Peterson, head of long-distance transport at Germany's national railway company Deutsche Bahn (DB). He noted that 2024 was the strongest year in this sector for the German railway, with a 22-percent growth compared to the pre-Covid year of 2019.

According to a report published in June by the French authority for transports (ART), train usage in France broke a record for the third consecutive year in 2024, confirming the growth of rail transport observed since the end of Covid. There were 6 percent more passengers in 2024 compared to 2023, representing an identical increase to the previous year, ART said.

Summer train usage also significantly improved compared to the previous year, fuelled by the Olympic Games in Paris and the rail pass, which allowed young people aged 16 to 27 to unlimited travel on regional trains for 49 Euro per month.

Other countries also actively encourage train travel through national and regional initiatives. For example, the 2025 edition of Spain's Verano Joven (Young Summer) programme has allocated 120 million Euro to offer 18- to 30-year-olds discounts of up to 90 percent on medium-distance trains and up to 50 percent on high-speed trains.

The EU also aims to encourage young people to travel by train through the DiscoverEU initiative. Over 1.6 million have applied since its launch in 2018, and 391,000 travel passes have been given so far.

What is DiscoverEU?

DiscoverEU is an initiative through the European Union's Erasmus+ programme that gives 18-year-old EU citizens or legal residents a chance to travel across Europe by rail for free with a so-called Travel Pass.

There are two calls for applications each year, one in spring and one in autumn. Applicants have to take part in a quiz as part of the application process, unless they apply as part of a group.

Young people from non-EU states including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia, and Turkiye are also eligible to apply due to their association to the Erasmus+ programme.

In addition to the Travel Pass, participants also receive the DiscoverEU Youth Card, which offers discounts on public transport, hotels, food, and cultural, sporting and other activities in 36 European countries.

The national Erasmus+ agencies also organise meetings before, during and after the trip. In Bulgaria, for example, the Erasmus+ National Agency organises pre-departure events and networking opportunities, while participants are encouraged to share travel stories and photos on social media.

The April 2025 DiscoverEU application was open to people born between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007. Across the EU, some 156,516 young people applied for the trips and 35,753 were selected.

By country, the highest number of applications came from young people in Germany (24,194), Spain (21,414), Poland (15,932), and the Netherlands (13,106).

The countries with the most successful applicants were Germany (6,143), France (4,977), Italy (4,394), and Spain (3,501).

Other countries with lower but notable numbers of successful applicants include Romania (1,489), Austria (715), and Bulgaria (561).

Austria's minister for European affairs Claudia Plakolm has praised the initiative in the past, saying that "There is no better way to experience Europe than with an Interrail ticket. Projects like these make Europe not just a spot on the map, but part of our identity. It's a great opportunity to get to know other people and cultures while also being ambassadors for Austrian culture."

Austrian MEPs Andreas Schieder and Hannes Heide (SPO) in turn highlighted that DiscoverEU enables young people to travel sustainably: "It is a great opportunity to make train travel attractive to young people in the EU as a climate-friendly means of transport. The future of European mobility lies on the rails."

The European Commissioner responsible for DiscoverEU and Erasmus+ has called on young people to take advantage of the initiative.

"This is not just a trip, it's a life-changing journey. Every station, every cafe, every new face you meet, adds to your story. You're not just seeing Europe; you're living it. To every young explorer with a travel pass in hand: go out there and make it unforgettable!," European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport Glenn Micallef said.

No integrated European rail network, but DB has a plan

Although the idea of an interconnected European railway system lives on, the reality is less clear-cut if you're a regular traveller.

Problems often begin with ticket purchases. For cross-border journeys, multiple tickets are often required, each purchased separately. This is not only inconvenient but also means passenger rights, such as compensation for missed connections, do not apply.

"Problems often arise when a railway line reaches a national border," said Sebastian Wilken, who writes about international train travel on his blog Zugpost. These issues include power supply, signalling and safety systems, track gauge differences and even the language skills of train drivers.

The European Union has long recognized the problems. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has noted that cross-border rail travel remains too complicated for many citizens. "People should be able to use open booking systems to purchase trans-European journeys from multiple providers without losing their right to refunds or alternative travel," she said in her Political Guidelines for the European Commission published in July 2024.

The European Commission plans to propose legislation for "uniform digital booking and ticketing services" intended to ensure that "Europeans can buy a single ticket on a single platform and exercise their passenger rights for the entire journey".

European railways agreed years ago to implement the Open Sales and Distribution Model, or OSDM interface standard. DB's Peterson described it as "the language through which European railways and sales service providers exchange their data". This will give DB access to the complete ticket portfolio of participating railways and vice versa.

For DB, access will initially start this autumn, when the Austrian Federal Railways (OBB) and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) are set to be made available. New partners are expected to join monthly. "We expect that by the end of next year, Europe will be almost comprehensively connected," said Peterson.

Then booking tickets across Europe - whether from Oslo to Athens or Warsaw to Barcelona - will be possible in a single step. Lower-cost tickets via DB competitor Flix will however not be available on this system.

The content of this article is based on reporting by AFP, Agerpres, APA, BTA, dpa, EFE, Europa Press, as part of the European Newsroom (enr) project.
A shift in demand toward older apartments represents the main trend observed in the real estate market during the first half of this year, driven by an overall decline in transaction volumes amid political and economic instability, according to a specialized analysis released on Wednesday.





Market dynamics, influencing factors, key trends, and future outlook are presented in the RE/MAX Romania Real Estate Barometer, a status report on the market based on data regularly collected by the company."Older apartments have been in much higher demand and have seen significant price increases, particularly in central and semi-central areas. The desire for immediate move-in and lower costs has made the secondary market the preferred choice. In peripheral areas, although there is a focus on new projects, these still do not meet quick demand and are more expensive, which is why transactional trends keep older apartments as the favored option," said Razvan Cuc, President of RE/MAX Romania.For the first half of this year, RE/MAX Romania also reports a 20% increase in commission revenues compared to the same period last year.Among the three largest transactions handled by RE/MAX offices in the first half of the year were a plot of land in Ilfov sold for 4.2 million euros, followed by a plot in Brasov valued at 2.2 million euros, and an apartment block in Medias worth 1.52 million euros.RE/MAX is the largest franchise network of real estate offices in Romania, with the highest number of agents  currently over 65 franchised offices and more than 800 active members. RE/MAX is recognized as the strongest national real estate brand.
Key Points

In a somewhat counterintuitive set of moves, an analyst downgraded his recommendation on the shares but lifted the price target.

Regardless, he feels the stock isn't as compelling a buy as it once was.

10 stocks we like better than MP Materials 

MP Materials (NYSE: MP), which is the company that owns the one and only rare earth mine in the U.S., has attracted considerable investor interest lately, but didn't have a great Monday on the stock market.

The company's shares closed the session more than 2% lower in price after a researcher downgraded its recommendation on them. The S&P 500 index did relatively better, sliding by a relatively light 0.3%.

Knocked down a peg

The downgrading party was CFRA's Matthew Miller, who that morning changed his rating on MP Materials to buy from its previous strong buy. In doing so, however, he raised the price target on the shares considerably, to $88 apiece from $68.

Image source: Getty Images.

Investors clearly focused on the recommendation downshift rather than the price target boost. This might be due to the fact that Miller is still counting on the company to book a net loss this year, according to reports.

While he feels that the rare earth specialist will mine a far higher earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) figure than previously anticipated -- Miller raised his estimate for this to $850 million from $650 million for this year -- it should still land in the red on the bottom line.

He's now modeling a $0.10 per share deficit, which, although much narrower than his previous $0.36 net loss estimate, is still a considerable below-the-waterline figure.

Rocky times

As we're in the thick of a rather stop-and-go trade war with foreign partners (particularly with China, a big national consumer of rare earths), MP Materials' business is volatile at the moment. It can be hard to get a fix on the company's prospects, although its position as the sole rare earth pure-play in this country is inherently valuable. The stock, then, is always worthy of consideration as a buy.

Should you buy stock in MP Materials right now?

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JEFFERSON CITY  Missouri is seeing a spike in the number of cities debating whether to stop adding fluoride to drinking water.

Typically, Department of Natural Resources officials say, one or two communities a year notify the state of their plans to remove the cavity-preventing mineral from their water supplies. So far this year, the agency reports at least six towns are mulling the idea.

Osage Beach is the latest to consider it. In a social media post last week, Michael Harmison, mayor of the Lake of the Ozarks tourist city of about 5,100 residents, asked for comments about plans there to discontinue the addition of fluoride to the citys water system, citing the same concerns voiced by U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. about the safety of the mineral.

Harmison said recent statewide bans implemented in Utah and Florida may serve as a model for making the change.

It can be argued that adding this pharmaceutical to citizens drinking water is in their best interest for proper dental and oral care. What are your thoughts? he said in the social media post.

Last week, the mayor told television station KRCG that removing the substance has been a longtime goal of his.

I wanted to do this three years ago, and it just couldnt happen at the time, but we have a new public works director whos on board with this, I believe, the mayor said.

Along with Osage Beach, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources says Cabool, Hannibal, Rolla, Sarcoxie and Crane also have considered removing the substance at some point this year. Some of those communities have postponed final votes on the matter amid pushback from residents.

In May, Rolla opted against removing fluoride from its drinking water.

Hannibal Mayor Darrell McCoy said that citys decision to eliminate fluoride began in a previous administration, which found residents backing the concept by a two-to-one margin.

The Hannibal City Council voted 5-1 in February to discontinue the use of fluoride.

McCoy, who took over in April, said he did not have a position on whether the removal was a good idea.

Ive read studies both ways on it. I just believe in letting the people having a choice, McCoy said Wednesday. Im just glad that the process worked.

However, he added that fluoride continues to be applied to the citys water supply because it is cheaper to use it up than discard it. The ongoing injections could last for three more months.

Once the on-hand quantity is out, thats when it will go into effect, McCoy said.

Lance Dorsey, chief of compliance and enforcement of the public water section at DNR, said the agency does not take a position on the decision by local communities, which are required to notify the agency if a change in fluoridation levels is sought.

By statute, we have to remain neutral, Dorsey said.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is not neutral on the issue.

Community water fluoridation at a carefully targeted level has been part of the American public health system for 80 years, spokeswoman Lisa Cox said Wednesday.

The cities debating the matter this year are following in the footsteps of Branson, where aldermen voted in 2023 to remove the substance. The south-central Missouri town of Houston got rid of it in 2018.

Much of the debate has been fueled by President Donald Trumps decision to appoint Kennedy as the nations top health official.

In April, Kennedy called for an end to federal health recommendations supporting fluoridation. His belief that there are adverse health effects from the use of fluoride was long considered a fringe opinion by conspiracy theorists who said adding it to water was a plot to make people submissive to government power.

Kennedy, a former environmental lawyer, has called fluoride a dangerous neurotoxin and said it has been associated with arthritis, bone breaks and thyroid disease.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, which Kennedy now oversees, fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces cavities by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear. In 1950, federal officials endorsed water fluoridation to prevent tooth decay. St. Louis began adding it to drinking water in the early 1950s.

Water fluoridation is one of the safest ways we can prevent cavities for children and adults, the American Dental Association says.

State health officials publish an extensive list of articles and studies advocating for the inclusion of fluoride.

Included in the DHSS information is a link to the results of an investigation into the removal of fluoride from U.S. water systems published by the Journal of the American Medical Association, which determined that the rate of tooth decay would increase by 7.5% and cost an estimated $9.8 billion in added healthcare costs over five years.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story included Louisana, Mo., among cities considering the removal of fluoride. State health officials on Thursday said the city's notification reflected a temporary change because of needed equipment repair.
Key Points

Nio is betting on its sub-brands Onvo and Firefly to drive growth.

Early response to its Onvo L90 SUV has exceeded expectations.

With Nio starting L90 deliveries, its sales should pick up pace.

10 stocks we like better than Nio 

After a dismal first half of the year, Nio (NYSE: NIO) stock made a dramatic comeback in July and surged 42% in the month, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Earlier in July, Nio reported a 17.5% year-over-year growth in deliveries for June. The Chinese electric-vehicle (EV) maker's recently launched sub-brands, Firefly and Onvo, contributed 40% to its June sales, and that's what caught everyone's attention.

Although Nio launched its first Onvo model L60 late last year, its all-electric large three-row L90 SUV sparked unprecedented optimism last month. In the two weeks following the start of L90 pre-sales on July 10, Nio's stock shot up over 40% on the Hong Kong stock exchange. The optimism spilled over to the U.S., and Nio shares surged on the New York Stock Exchange as investors bet on a potential turnaround.

Image source: Getty Images.

Can Nio stock fly higher?

Nio's deliveries of 24,925 vehicles in June was its highest so far this year. However, the company's July delivery numbers are already in, and it delivered only 21,017 vehicles in the month. That explains why Nio stock is down about 8% in August, as of this writing.

Should investors be worried, though? I'd say no, because August should be a bigger month for Nio as it began deliveries of L90 on August 1.

A local media report stated that Onvo president Shen Fei has set an internal target of delivering over 10,000 units of L90 in August alone. If Nio hits that number, the Onvo L90 will achieve the highest monthly sales among all of Nio's models in the company's history. Nio is aggressively ramping up production of L90 to fulfill deliveries.

Meanwhile, Nio's other sub-brand Firefly, targeted to the mass market, is rapidly expanding overseas. Firefly launched its first namesake compact electric car in April this year to take on the BMW Mini and the Mercedes-Benz Smart. By the end of 2025, Nio expects Firefly to be available in 20 overseas markets, primarily across Europe.

Nio will also launch its next-generation ES8 SUV in the coming months, which management believes should drive its Nio brand sales to 25,000 units per month. If management's numbers fall in place, Nio could soon be selling over 35,000 cars every month.

Back in April, I believed Nio stock was incredibly cheap and a top value EV stock to buy. Given the company's push into mass markets and aggressive goals for L90, I see a lot more upside in the stock price.
A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, assigned to the 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., lands at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, July 1, 2025. (Nathaniel Jackson/U.S. Air Force)



An F-15E Strike Eagle made a precautionary arrested landing Tuesday at Kadena Air Base, eight days after another fighter landed at the base on Okinawa with a missing wheel, according to local media reports.

The multirole fighter assigned to the 18th Wing at Kadena landed between 9:30 and 9:40 a.m., the Okinawa Times and the Ryukyu Shimpo reported, each citing unnamed eyewitnesses. The aircraft was towed to the tarmac after maintainers inspected it, the papers reported.

An arrested landing, routine on Navy aircraft carriers, occurs when a planes tailhook snags one of several cables on the flight deck, bringing the aircraft to a rapid stop. Air Force arresting systems stop an aircraft on the runway in the event something may prevent it from stopping on its own.

The wing declined to confirm or deny the landing in an unsigned email Wednesday.

Precautionary landings are standard procedure when pilots notice something out of the ordinary with their aircraft, it said. We are committed to conducting safe flight operations as we uphold our defense commitments.

A spokesman with the Okinawa Defense Bureau by phone Wednesday also declined to confirm or deny the landing. Some Japanese government officials may speak to the press only on condition of anonymity.

Two airmen with the 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., safely landed an F-15E with a missing wheel at Kadena on Aug. 4.

The aircraft was en route to Okinawa from U.S. Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, a remote island base in the Indian Ocean approximately 4,300 miles away, when the wheel was discovered to be missing, the release said. It was recovered on the flightline at Diego Garcia.

Kadenas F-15Es were to undergo safety checks and return to flying immediately following the inspection, the wing said in a news release Aug. 6.

The wing on Wednesday declined to answer questions about the inspection, referring to the release. Strike Eagles resumed flights from Kadena on Friday, the Times and Shimpo both reported without citing sources.

Strike Eagles from Seymour Johnson have operated from Kadena since April alongside two F-35A Lightning II rotational squadrons from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, and Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The service instituted rotational fighter deployments to Kadena when it began phasing out the aging F-15C/D fleet there in late 2022.

Stars and Stripes reporter Keishi Koja contributed to this report.
Amphibious assault ship USS Essex at the Pride of California dry dock at BAE Systems shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on Sept. 8, 2023. The Navy sailor Jinchao Patrick Wei, 25, was a machinists mate aboard the Essex when he was arrested in 2023 for allegedly selling defense information to China. Weis espionage trial began Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (Brian P. Caracci/U.S. Navy)



(Tribune News Service)  A Chinese-born U.S. Navy sailor betrayed the U.S. on behalf of his birth nation by selling military secrets to a Chinese spy while assigned to a San Diego-based warship, a federal prosecutor told a jury Tuesday during opening statements of the sailors espionage trial in San Diego federal court.

Jinchao Patrick Wei, 25, is accused of seven counts of conspiracy, espionage and charges related to unlawfully sending defense information to a foreign government. Federal prosecutors also contend that Wei, who became a naturalized U.S. citizen while serving in the Navy, committed naturalization fraud by not disclosing the alleged espionage during a citizenship interview.

Weis attorney told the jury that he and his mother came to the U.S. in 2016 in part because of their opposition to the Chinese government and that Wei held no loyalty to China. The defense attorney said that while Weis actions were regrettable, stupid and misguided, he did not believe that the information he was sharing with an online contact was important or secret.

Federal agents arrested Wei two years ago when he showed up for work one August morning at Naval Base San Diego. At the time, Wei was a petty officer who held a security clearance and worked as a machinists mate aboard the USS Essex, an amphibious assault ship. By the time federal agents arrested Wei, they had bugged his apartment, tapped his phone and spent more than six months listening in on his allegedly incriminating conversations, according to prosecutors.

This is quite obviously (expletive) espionage, Wei allegedly told another Navy sailor in February 2022 after someone he met on a Chinese social media site began asking him for information about the Navy.

Assistant U.S. Attorney John Parmley began his opening statement Tuesday quoting that line and finished by telling jurors that at the end of the trial, they will come to the same conclusion as the defendant in 2022  this is quite obviously espionage.

But defense attorney Sean Jones told the jury that Parmley had left out important context about that conversation, saying that after Wei had correctly identified the social media request as espionage, he had told his fellow sailor and thats why I wont do it.

Wei moved with his mother from China to Wisconsin in 2016, joined the Navy in July 2021 and reported to the Essex in March 2022, according to prosecutors and his Navy service record

As a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, the Essex resembles a small aircraft carrier that can carry more than 1,000 sailors and 1,500 Marines, allowing the U.S. to rapidly deploy troops in regions such as the Persian Gulf and South China Sea.

Parmley told the jury that China is desperately trying to keep up with U.S. technology while building its own similar class of amphibious assault ships.

A special agent from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service who was called as the first witness Tuesday said the leak of information about U.S. Navy ships, even basic information, could jeopardize (the U.S. militarys) advantage and reveal vulnerabilities that an enemy could exploit.

If we lose superiority, we risk losing lives on the battlefield, NCIS Special Agent Chris Christian testified.

Prosecutors contend that a Chinese intelligence officer began recruiting Wei over social media in February 2022, initially posing as a naval enthusiast who worked for the state-owned China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation. The intelligence officer allegedly asked Wei to send him photos, videos and other documents concerning U.S. Navy ships and their systems.

Wei, who had received Naval counterintelligence and insider threat training just days earlier, strongly suspected that his new social media acquaintance was a Chinese spy, prosecutors said.

Between March 2022 and Weis arrest in August 2023, the spy allegedly paid Wei thousands of dollars in exchange for photographs and videos of the Essex, information about the location of various Navy ships and details about the Essexs defensive weapons, according to prosecutors. Wei also allegedly sent his spy handler thousands of pages of technical and operational information about Navy warships that he took from a restricted Navy computer system.

In one of his larger thefts of U.S. Navy data, Wei sold the (intelligence officer) at least 30 technical and operating manuals about U.S. Navy systems, prosecutors wrote in a trial brief. These manuals contained export control warnings and detailed the operations of multiple systems aboard the Essex and similar ships, including power, steering, weapons control, aircraft and deck elevators, as well as damage and casualty controls.

Jones, Weis defense attorney, told the jury that prosecutors were overstating the secrecy of the documents that he shared, which he said can be found online. Jones also said that prosecutors were wrongly painting Wei as someone of importance with access to sensitive secrets.

In reality, Jones told the jury, his client spent most days sanding and painting the Essex.

Parmely told the jury that during trial, theyll hear how federal agents first caught wind of Weis alleged corruption and later installed a court-approved listening device in his apartment. Parmley also hinted at a Hollywood-like incident when FBI agents created a ruse and separated (Wei) from his phone during work in order to access the device, download its data and then quickly return it to him before he suspected an intrusion.

Jones said that despite the federal agents spending months and months surveilling his client, the investigators and prosecutors had failed to produce solid evidence that Wei intended to betray the U.S. for the benefit of China.

Intent is everything, Jones told the jury. They cannot prove intent.

Jones acknowledged that Wei accepted money, but said his client never asked for it nor agreed to complete specific tasks in exchange for specific payments.

Weis arrest in 2023 came the same day the U.S. Department of Justice also announced the arrest and indictment of another Chinese-born U.S. Navy sailor, Wenheng Thomas Zhao. The DOJ said Zhao, who was arrested at a Naval base in Ventura County, was also a naturalized U.S. citizen suspected of spying for China, though officials never said if the cases were related.

Zhao eventually admitted to accepting nearly $15,000 in bribes for sending sensitive but unclassified military information to his Chinese handler. A federal judge sentenced him to two years and three months in prison on bribery and conspiracy charges.

Weis trial comes two months after the DOJ announced charges against two alleged Chinese spies in the U.S. who were accused of taking photographs of a naval base and participating in efforts to recruit U.S. military members who they thought might be open to working for Chinese intelligence.

2025 The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Visit sandiegouniontribune.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The USS Cincinnati conducts freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea on Aug. 13, 2025. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)



MANILA, Philippines  The U.S. deployed two warships Wednesday in a disputed South China Sea shoal where two Chinese ships collided earlier in the week while trying to drive away a smaller Philippine ship in a high-seas accident that raised alarms about maritime safety.

Both China and the Philippines claim Scarborough Shoal and other outcroppings in the South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also lay overlapping claims in the contested waters.

The USS Higgins, a guided missile destroyer, and USS Cincinnati, a littoral combat ship, were shadowed by a Chinese navy ship while sailing about 30 nautical miles from the Scarborough Shoal. There were no reports of any untoward incident, Philippine coast guard Commodore Jay Tarriela said, citing information from U.S. officials and a Philippine surveillance flight.

The U.S. Navy has staged what it calls freedom-of-navigation voyages and overflights in the South China Sea for years to challenge Chinas restrictions and its demand for entry notifications in virtually the entire stretch of the disputed waters that it claims. That has angered China, and its forces have had close runs-in with U.S. warships and aircraft on such patrols in international waters and airspace.

The deployment happened after Washingtons ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, on Tuesday condemned the latest reckless action by China directed against a Philippine vessel in Scarborough. The rich fishing atoll off the northwestern Philippines has been the scene of increasingly tense confrontations between the Chinese and Philippine coast guard, fishing and other ships in recent years.

The Philippines is the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. Washington has repeatedly warned that its obligated to defend the Philippines if Filipino forces come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.

On Monday, a Chinese navy destroyer and a Chinese coast guard ship accidentally collided while trying to block and drive away a smaller Philippine coast guard ship, the BRP Suluan, about 10.5 nautical miles from Scarborough. Video footages made public by the Philippine coast guard show the Chinese coast guard ship blasting its powerful water cannon and a number of Chinese personnel standing at the bow shortly before that section was hit by the fast-turning Chinese navy ship.

Shortly after the collision, the video shows the heavily shattered bow of the Chinese coast guard ship without the Chinese personnel, who were standing on deck before the crash. The Chinese navy ship sustained deep dents and what appeared to be linear gashes on its hull.

Japan, Australia and New Zealand expressed alarm on Wednesday over the dangerous maneuvers that led to the collision in the busy waters, a key global trade route.

Japan upholds the rule of law and opposes any actions which increase tensions. Our concern goes to the repeated actions in the South China Sea, Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo Kazuya said in a post on X.

The Australian Embassy in Manila expressed concern by the dangerous and unprofessional conduct of Chinese vessels near Scarborough Shoal involving the Philippine Coast Guard, saying in a statement the incident highlights the need for de-escalation, restraint and respect for international law.

This is a learning experience for the Peoples Republic of China, Tarriela, the Philippine coast guard commodore, told a news conference in Manila. For so many years, we have been reminding them to stop dangerous maneuvers, to stop risky blockings, to adhere to the (anti-)collision regulations because if there is a very high chance of miscalculation, this kind of collision incident would happen.

Tarriela spoke a few hours after a Chinese fighter jet flew as close as 500 feet to try to drive away a Philippine coast guard plane on a surveillance flight on Wednesday over the Scarborough with invited journalists on board. The Chinese jet carried out dangerous maneuvers for about 20 minutes, including flying about 200 feet above the small Philippine aircraft, Tarriela said.

Associated Press writers Joeal Calupitan and Aaron Favila in Manila contributed to this report.
The commanding officer of Naval Information Force Reserve Readiness Center San Diego was relieved of duty Tuesday, a Navy press release said. (U.S. Navy)



The commanding officer of Naval Information Force Reserve Readiness Center San Diego was relieved of duty on Tuesday.

A Navy news release cited a loss of confidence in Capt. Russell A. Herrells ability to command. The term loss of confidence is frequently used by the military when specific reasons are not disclosed for the removal of a commander. The Navy did not give specifics for Herrells removal.

The readiness center provides administrative support to attached units, according to the release. It is a subordinate command of Naval Information Force Reserve, which is based in Fort Worth, Texas.

The commands chief of staff, Capt. Mark Meade, has been temporarily assigned as REDCEN San Diegos commanding officer, per the release.
A damaged Chinese coast guard ship, right, is seen beside a Chinese navy vessel after they collided while chasing a Philippine fisheries boat in the South China Sea on Aug. 11, 2025. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)



MANILA, Philippines  The Philippine military on Tuesday blamed China for the collision of two Chinese navy and coast guard ships while trying to drive the Philippine coast guard and fishermen from a disputed shoal in the South China Sea. It said it would assess how to respond to Beijings use of military force against civilians.

Philippine authorities said Mondays accidental collision resulted in visible heavy damages to the Chinese coast guard and navy ships and possible injuries.

The confrontation near the Scarborough Shoal was the latest flare-up of the long-simmering territorial standoff in the contested waters, a long-feared flashpoint in Asia.

The United States, a longtime treaty ally of the Philippines, on Tuesday condemned the latest reckless action by China directed against a Philippine vessel.

The Chinese coast guard on Monday blamed Philippine vessels for the confrontation and said it was forced to expel the vessels after they intruded into Chinas inherent territory despite warnings. It did not mention the collision or possible casualties.

Video footage made public by the Philippine coast guard shows a Chinese navy ship with the bow number 164 slamming into the bow of a Chinese coast guard ship while both try to block and force a Philippine patrol ship, the BRP Suluan, away from Scarborough. The Chinese coast guard ship can be seen using its water cannon.

The video shows the heavily shattered bow of the Chinese coast guard ship, where at least two Chinese personnel were seen standing shortly before the crash. The Chinese navy ship sustained deep dents and what appeared to be linear cuts on its hull.

BRP Suluan offered medical help by two-way radio to the Chinese coast guard, fearing the collision may have caused injuries to its personnel, but the Philippine coast guard said it received no response.

Gan Yu, a spokesperson for the Chinese coast guard in Beijing, said Monday that the Philippine vessels intruded into Chinese territorial waters off the shoal, prompting its forces to take necessary measures, including monitoring, forcing, intercepting and controlling the Philippine vessels to expel them.

The chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., told reporters in Manila that the video footage clearly showed that the Chinese navy ship maneuvered to ram the BRP Suluan, which had to move to avoid being hit. As a result, the Chinese navy ship instead hit the Chinese coast guard ship, which was also closely chasing the Philippine vessel, Brawner said.

Chinas aggressive actions were very clear in this incident, Brawner said. They were at fault because of their aggressive maneuvers. We were there to protect Filipino fishermen in the Scarborough Shoal. That was our only objective because thats our traditional fishing ground.

Asked if Chinas deployment of military force against civilians was a change in tactic, Brawner said it was. He said the Philippine military would assess how to respond in consultation with the coast guard and would seek guidance from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Now they are deploying their PLA navy, and this is one symbol of Chinas aggressiveness, he said, referring to Chinas Peoples Liberation Army. Well discuss possible steps and our future tactics to counter Chinas actions to stop us from getting access (to Scarborough).

Chinese officials did not immediately comment on Brawners statement, but Gan Yu insisted its forces would be resolutely safeguarding Chinas territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

Associated Press journalist Huizhong Wu contributed to this report.
V-22 Ospreys of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force prepare to land at Camp Ainoura, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Feb. 23, 2025. (Tyler Andrews/U.S. Marine Corps)



Japans army has finished a monthlong effort to move its fleet of V-22 Ospreys to a new base on the island of Kyushu as part of a military buildup in the countrys south.

The Ground Self-Defense Force moved the last of its 17 tiltrotor aircraft on Tuesday to Camp Saga, a newly constructed base in Saga prefecture, according to a Ministry of Defense news release that day. The first Osprey left Camp Kisarazu, east of Tokyo in Chiba prefecture, on July 9 .

About 200 protesters with the Local Residents Association Against the Deployment of Ospreys at Saga Airport rallied July 9 outside Camp Saga and Friday at Saga District Court, group leader Hatsuji Koga, 76, said by phone Wednesday.

Ospreys have been crashing around the world, having many accidents; its a defective aircraft, he said. If it crashed while were working, it will cause enormous damage.

Koga, a seaweed harvester from Saga city, filed a lawsuit against the government of Japan alleging the ministry improperly purchased the base land from local landowners using a two-thirds majority vote.

Several groups have written letters to Saga prefecture, a prefectural spokesman said by phone Wednesday without elaborating further. The prefecture referred the groups to the defense ministry.

The prefecture held three open meetings in December 2022 to inform residents about the plan to open the base, the spokesman said.

Some Japanese government officials may speak to the press only on condition of anonymity.

All but two of the aircraft arrived at Saga in July; the remaining pair arrived Aug. 6 and Tuesday.

One Osprey made a precautionary landing July 28 at Vice-camp Kitatokushima when a warning light illuminated during the flight to Saga from Kisarazu, according to Saga prefectures website. The aircraft was able to complete the flight to Saga that day.

From their new location, the tiltrotors will establish a system to operate in conjunction with Japans Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade at Camp Ainoura in Sasebo city, about 45 miles west, according to the ministrys release.

The tiltrotor pilots began flight training July 28 around Camp Saga, according to a training document released by the ministry. On Aug. 5, they began flying to Japanese bases in Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kagoshima and Kumamoto prefectures.

Unit training, including air maneuvers and ship takeoffs and landings, will begin at bases around Camp Saga, including Camp Ainoura, at an undetermined date, the document said.

A spokesman with the Kyushu Defense Bureau, an arm of the defense ministry, by phone Wednesday referred questions about operations to Camp Saga. A spokesman at Camp Saga by phone that day declined to answer questions.

Ospreys flown by the U.S. Marine Corps will not use Camp Saga, situated adjacent to the civilian Saga Airport, according to the prefecture. A 2014 request by the ministry to permit the Marines to use the base was withdrawn Oct. 29, 2015, after prefectural Gov. Yoshinori Yamaguchi sought clarification of the plan, according to minutes of a June 12 prefectural assembly meeting.
An image posted on Facebook by Pokemon Global News purports to show bags of McDonald's Happy Meals discarded with food still inside on a Japanese street Aug. 9, 2025. (Pokemon Global News)



A promotional campaign in Japan engineered by fast-food giant McDonalds with The Pokemon Co. apparently backfired after reports of avid collectors discarding food in search of trading cards.

The Pokemon trading card promotion, set to run throughout Japan from Saturday through Monday, was abruptly halted on the first day, according to a news release Saturday from McDonalds Japan.

During our Pokemon Happy Meal set Pokemon card promotion, we confirmed that a portion of customers bought large quantities with the intent of reselling the cards, causing congestion and confusion at McDonalds branches and in their surrounding areas, the company said in a subsequent release Monday.

The company also condemned the waste of food and apologized for its inadequate response.

McDonalds does not tolerate the purchase of Happy Meals for resale or the abandonment and disposal of food, it stated.

This situation clearly violates our long-held philosophy of providing a fun dining experience for children and families and our stance as a restaurant and we sincerely acknowledge that our response was inadequate, the release stated.

A photo posted on Facebook by Pokemon Global News purports to show customers crowding a McDonalds Japan restaurant during a Pokemon trading card campaign Aug. 9, 2025. (Pokemon Global News)



Pokemon products based on the cast of anime and manga characters popular around the world seem to disappear quickly wherever they are sold. The McDonalds promotion proved no exception.

During the promotion, Pokemon Happy Sets  called Happy Meals in the United States  came with two Pokemon collectible cards, an original Pokemon Pikachu card and one random card from a set of five, according to a McDonalds Japan release Aug. 4. The promotion also included a set of eight Pokemon toys.

I consider myself one of the lucky ones, Patrick Batac, of Stafford, Va., a civilian contractor at Yokota Naval Base, Japan, told Stars and Stripes on Wednesday by Facebook Messenger. Batac said he visited a McDonalds in Ikedacho on Saturday looking for Pokemon cards.

My McDonalds had zero [people] in line but there were tons of online orders, he said.

There were literally bags of Happy Meals overflowing the counters waiting to be picked up and delivered, he said. They limited us to five meals in person, but they had no way to limit online orders.

Batac said he succeeded in his quest. I was able to get my five quickly, but other places I saw and heard had lines for hours, he wrote.

McDonalds Japan limited Happy Meal purchases to five per person during the promotion and urged customers not to purchase the meals solely to resell the cards, according to the Aug. 4 release.

The extra meal purchases caused a trash buildup at many stores and littered the streets nearby, according to a post Monday on the Pokemon Global News, an unofficial Pokemon Facebook page.

Stores quickly ran out of cards, arguments flared between real fans and would-be profiteers waiting in line. Meanwhile reports circulated of some customers ordering more than five meals through the McDonalds mobile app, according to posts on Pokemon Global News.

The special Pikachu card was posted for $25 and above on eBay hours after the Pokemon promotion was stopped.

McDonalds Japan announced on Monday that future promotions will come with stricter purchase limits.

We sincerely apologize for not being able to meet the expectations of our customers who were looking forward to the product due to the early end of distribution, the company said in its Monday release.

Stars and Stripes reporter Hana Kusumoto contributed to this report.
North Korean soldiers conduct a mortar drill at an unspecified location in North Korea, Aug. 11, 2025. (Korean Central News Agency)



CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  North Koreas military conducted mortar drills Monday, one week before the South and the United States are scheduled to kick off the second of their large, annual military exercises.

Mortar teams overseen by several senior North Korean military officials at an unspecified location were tasked with striking different enemy targets in sight and major facilities, the state-run Korean Central News Agency reported Tuesday.

The drills demonstrated the strong will of the army to  reliably defend the security and sovereignty of North Korea from the South, KCNA reported.

The report did not state whether North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended the demonstration.

South Koreas military is closely monitoring the enemys movement and maintaining readiness against possible provocations, Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesman army Col. Lee Sung Joon said during a news conference Tuesday.

The drills were held a day after North Korean Defense Minister No Kwang-chol warned South Korea and the U.S. of negative consequences for conducting Ulchi Freedom Shield, a large-scale exercise the allies hold throughout the South.

North Korea routinely criticizes the Souths military drills with the U.S., Japan and other nations, and condemns them as rehearsals for an invasion.

We strongly denounce the U.S. and [South Korea] for their provocative moves of clearly showing the stand of military confrontation  and once again endangering the security environment on the Korean Peninsula, No said in a statement published Sunday by KCNA.

Ulchi Freedom Shield is scheduled to start Monday and conclude Aug. 28 throughout South Korea on air, land, sea, space and cyberspace. It is one of two major exercises the allies conduct in South Korea each year. Freedom Shield, the first exercise, was held March 10 through March 20.

Roughly 18,000 South Korean troops are expected to take part in the upcoming, defense-oriented exercise, Lee said during a news conference Aug. 7.

U.S. Forces Korea, the command responsible for 28,500 American troops in South Korea, does not provide troop figures for large-scale exercises, citing operational security.

Despite issuing warnings against Seoul, Pyongyang has taken several steps toward deescalating tensions with its neighbor in recent weeks.

South Koreas military reported Saturday that the North had removed some of its propaganda loudspeakers installed at the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two countries, a move that came five days after the South dismantled its own loudspeakers on its side of the border.

Both Koreas in June silenced their loudspeakers, which are used as a form of psychological warfare.
In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, stands beside North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un at the airport in Pyongyang, North Korea, on June 19, 2024. (Gavriil Grigorov, AFP, Getty Images/TNS)



SEOUL, South Korea (Tribune News Service)  Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the war in Ukraine ahead of the Russian presidents planned summit with President Donald Trump in Alaska.

During the call on Tuesday, Putin thanked Kim for supporting his war on Ukraine as the two leaders exchanged views on the issues of mutual concern, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said. The Kremlin had earlier said Putin shared information with Kim in the context of the upcoming talks with Trump.

Kim Jong Un expressed firm conviction that the DPRK would always remain faithful to the spirit of the DPRK-Russia treaty and fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, KCNA said, referring to a mutual defense pact the two leaders signed last year. DPRK stands for the Norths official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

The phone conversation, which was held in a warm comradely atmosphere, according to North Korea, took place just three days before Putin and Trump are set to meet in Alaska as part of the latest U.S. effort to negotiate a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, now in its fourth year.

Putin has demanded that Ukraine cede the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, territory that Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said is non-negotiable. Trump has suggested hes on board with the idea of Russia and Ukraine swapping some territory.

The latest call follows Putins phone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday during which Xi said he was glad to see the U.S. and Russia talking. Putin also spoke with Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week.

Kim has emerged as a key ally of Putin and his war in Ukraine, helping boost Moscows fighting presence on the ground while raising concerns about North Koreas ability to strengthen its military and sustain its regime with Russian backing.

When Putin visited Pyongyang in June 2024  his first trip to North Korea in 24 years  the two leaders revived a Cold Warera agreement to provide immediate military assistance if either country is attacked. Putin also invited Kim to visit Moscow.

Kim and Putin agreed to further enhance their partnership and make closer contact in the future, KCNA said.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.

Visit bloomberg.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Payments firm Wise has announced its integration with Google to enhance remittance services for consumers in the US.

The service, which is currently in a testing phase for Google users in the US, leverages Wise Platform, the company's infrastructure designed to facilitate global payments for banks and enterprises.

Users intending to transfer money internationally can now do so by accessing Wise's services through Google Wallet online or by searching for specific currency exchange rates via Google Search.

This remittance solution focuses on popular currency routes from the US dollar to the Indian Rupee (INR), Philippine Peso (PHP), Mexican Peso (MXN), and Brazilian Real (BRL).

Google will provide users with the ability to compare fees and transaction speeds across various providers, including Wise, within the search results.

Wise Platform is known for powering international payment services for several financial institutions as well as digital platforms such as Morgan Stanley, Standard Chartered, Brex, and Ramp.

Wise Platform Commercial Director Lauren Langbridge said: Were thrilled to collaborate with Google in helping to bring this new remittance experience to life.

By joining forces with Google, Wise will enable fast, reliable international payments for more users across the US, and empower everyday people to make the best choice based on their needs.

In March, Wise facilitated international payment services for Spendesk, a spend management and procurement platform, serving over 5,000 businesses.

The integration with Spendesk allows companies within the European Economic Area and the UK to manage payments and reimbursements through a centralised dashboard, offering the facility to handle invoices and expenses in 30 different currencies at the mid-market exchange rate.

"Wise joins hands with Google for remittance services in US " was originally created and published by Electronic Payments International, a GlobalData owned brand.




A sailor assigned to the Navys Rapid Response Team delivers water as part of an extended drinking water monitoring program at a home in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, in May 2024. (Krystal Diaz/U.S. Navy)



FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  More than 6,000 additional plaintiffs joined a lawsuit against the U.S. alleging they were sickened by the 2021 Navy Red Hill jet fuel spill in Hawaii, according to an amended complaint filed Tuesday in federal court.

The amended complaint, filed in U.S. District Court of Hawaii, also cites a growing number of studies linking the Red Hill jet fuel exposure to protracted health issues.

The firms of Just Well Law of Austin, Texas, and Hosoda Law Group in Honolulu now represent roughly 7,000 individuals claiming injury from fuel-tainted tap water. The fuel spill contaminated water piped into military housing areas on and near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

The firms have filed three separate lawsuits, one solely representing active-duty personnel. The court subsequently consolidated the three.

The first 17 bellwether plaintiffs in the initial case, Feindt vs. United States, went to trial in spring 2024.

U.S. District Court Judge Leslie Kobayashi disallowed expert testimony about long-term illnesses caused by jet fuel, citing a dearth of medical studies involving human subjects.

Plaintiffs testified that they had suffered from rashes, abdominal pains, hair loss, dizziness, vomiting, brain fog and other conditions  with some conditions persisting for years.

In May, Kobayashi awarded each plaintiff amounts between $37,500 and $80,000.

These families prevailed against all odds against the Government in court, and they helped prove to the world what truly happened when the Navy poisoned the water supply near Pearl Harbor and sickened so many, Kristina Baehr, an attorney with Just Well Law, said in a news release Tuesday.

With this filing of thousands more claims, the time has come for the Government to acknowledge the admissions of its own health agencies, stop fighting these families, and finally do whats right for them, she said.

The law firms are negotiating with government attorneys for a possible settlement for the remaining plaintiffs using as a baseline the amounts awarded the bellwether plaintiffs, Baehr said by phone Tuesday.

The jet fuel contamination came from a spill at the nearby Red Hill underground fuel storage facility, a World War II-era complex that is now in the process of being permanently closed.

During the trial, the government argued that the jet fuel contamination was so brief and so minute that it could not have seriously affected residents.

Since the trial ended, several studies have found tentative links between the Red Hill contamination and longer-term conditions.

Among them was a Defense Department study released earlier this year that found individuals exposed to Red Hill-tainted water were more likely to experience new migraines and esophageal inflammation than others living nearby but not exposed to the water.

A University of Hawaii study published in January found that roughly 80% of affected residents surveyed reported having new or worsened physical or mental health symptoms after the spill.

Most of that group said their symptoms remained two years after the exposure.

A year ago, the Government disputed whether military and civilian families were harmed by the Red Hill water contamination, the amended complaint states. Today, the Governments own agencies have acknowledged the truth survivors have long known: the water was toxic, and its effects are lasting.
Ians Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, waits for the start of the IAEA board of governors meeting at the International Center in Vienna, Austria, Nov. 21, 2019. (Ronald Zak/AP)



BERLIN  The top diplomats of Britain, France, and Germany threatened to reimpose sanctions on Iran as an end-of-the-month deadline nears for the country to resume negotiations with the West over its nuclear program and cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

The three countries, known as the E3, wrote in a letter to the United Nations dated Friday that they were willing to trigger a process known as the snapback mechanism, which allows one of the Western parties to reimpose U.N. sanctions, if Tehran doesnt comply with its requirements.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted the letter Wednesday to X. He co-signed it along with top diplomats from Germany and the United Kingdom.

E3 have always committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon, the letter said. We have made clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism.

The Iranian government didnt immediately respond to the development, but parliament member Manouchehr Mottaki  who was Irans top diplomat for five years in the 2000s  warned of a swift reaction to any move to trigger the snapback mechanism.

He said the Iranian parliament has a finger on the trigger for quitting the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, or NPT, the international treaty aimed at halting the spread of nuclear weapons. We only need 24 hours to approve quitting the nuclear deal, if the E3 raises the issue at the U.N. Security Council, Mottaki said.

The letter from the E3 comes following a period of apparent diplomatic deadlock after a 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June, where Israeli and American jets struck some key nuclear-related facilities in the Islamic Republic.

The countries met with Iranian officials last month in Turkey at Irans consulate building in Istanbul on the possibility of reimposing international sanctions, lifted in 2015 in exchange for Tehran accepting restrictions and monitoring of its nuclear program.

Irans Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said at the time that he hoped that the meeting would see the E3 nations reassess their previous unconstructive attitude.

Since the war, talks with Washington for a new nuclear deal havent resumed, and Iran has since suspended ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, following the attacks. The IAEAs first visit to Iran since the war didnt entail any visits to nuclear facilities Monday, and cooperation wasnt officially restored.

One of the three countries opting to trigger the snapback mechanism would renew sanctions on Iran, but Tehran renewing cooperation with the Vienna-based IAEA and addressing concerns about its highly-enriched uranium stockpile would delay it, according to a diplomat who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity following Julys meeting in Istanbul.

Iran has had limited IAEA inspections in the past as a pressure tactic in negotiating with the West and it is unclear how soon talks between Tehran and Washington for a deal over its nuclear program will resume.

German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Josef Hinterseher on Wednesday said that the letter once again underlines that the legal preconditions for snapback have long existed.

Our position and our appeal is, very clearly, that Iran still has the choice of deciding to return to diplomacy  and full cooperation with the IAEA, he told reporters at a regular news conference in Berlin.

U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA had assessed Iran last had an organized nuclear weapons program in 2003, though Tehran had been enriching uranium up to 60%  a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.

The IAEA didnt immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

Kareem Chehayeb reported from Beirut. Geir Moulson contributed to this report from Berlin.
U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting in Osaka, Japan, in June 2019. (Susan Walsh/AP)



BERLIN  President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after the two leaders meet for a summit later this week in Alaska.

Trump made the comment in response to a question from a reporter after announcing this years Kennedy Center Honors recipients in Washington. He did not say what the consequences might be.

The remark came soon after Trump consulted with European leaders, who said the president assured them he would make a priority of trying to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine when he speaks with Putin on Friday in Anchorage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined several of Kyivs main allies in the virtual meeting with the U.S. leader, and Zelenskyy told the group that Putin is bluffing ahead of the planned summit about Russias ability to occupy all of Ukraine and shake off sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said afterward that important decisions could be made in Alaska, but he stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected.

Merz convened Wednesdays meeting in an attempt to make sure European and Ukrainian leaders are heard ahead of the summit.

He stressed that a ceasefire must come at the beginning of negotiations. He told reporters that Trump also wants to make this one of his priorities in the meeting with Putin.

At a separate appearance in France, French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit.

Following Fridays summit, Macron added, Trump will seek a future trilateral meeting  one involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy. He said he hoped that it could be held in Europe in a neutral country that is acceptable to all parties.

Merz, who described Wednesdays conversation as constructive and good, said the Europeans made clear that Ukraine must sit at the table as soon as there are follow-up meetings.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

The Ukrainian president, who traveled to Berlin to join the meeting alongside Merz, has repeatedly cast doubt on whether Putin would negotiate in good faith. He said Wednesday that he hoped an immediate ceasefire will be the central topic in Alaska, but also argued that Putin definitely does not want peace.

Zelenskyy said Putin is trying to apply pressure  on all sectors of the Ukrainian front in an attempt to show that Russia is capable of occupying all of Ukraine. Putin is also bluffing that sanctions do not matter to him and are ineffective, he added. In reality, sanctions are very helpful and are hitting Russias war economy hard.

The stakes for Europe

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, describing Fridays summit as a feel-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leaders intentions.

Yet Trump has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He has also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and the president was dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace. Trump said that following Fridays summit, a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders could be arranged, or that it could also be a meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy and me.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the European Union, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

The overarching fear of many European countries is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Merz said that if there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and the Europeans should and must increase the pressure on Moscow.

Land concessions a non-starter for Kyiv

Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the Ukrainian leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not give up any territory it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focused on ending the war have not addressed key Ukrainian demands, including security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensuring that Europe is included in negotiations.

Three weeks after Trump returned to office, his administration took the leverage of Ukraines NATO membership off the table  something Putin has demanded  and signaled that the EU and Ukraine must handle security in Europe now while America focuses its attention elsewhere.

Senior EU officials believe Trump may be satisfied with simply securing a ceasefire in Ukraine and that he is probably more interested in broader U.S. interests and great power politics, aiming to ramp up business with Russia and rehabilitate Putin.

Russian advances in Donbas

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donbas region that comprises Ukraines eastern industrial heartland, which Putin has long coveted.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles have said Ukraines ability to fend off those advances could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

Corbet reported from Paris. Associated Press writers Annie Ma in Washington, Lorne Cook in Brussels, Samya Kullab in Kyiv, and Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, right, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shake hands after a joint press statement in Berlin on Aug. 13, 2025. (Ebrahim Noroozi/AP)



BERLIN  Germany announced on Wednesday that it will work with a group of Ukraines Western backers to supply a package of military aid to the war-ravaged country worth up to $500 million using a new NATO supply line.

Earlier this month, NATO started coordinating regular deliveries of large weapons packages to Ukraine after the Netherlands said that it would provide air defense equipment, ammunition and other military aid worth $582 million.

Sweden announced the following day that it would contribute $275 million to a joint effort along with its Nordic neighbors Denmark and Norway to provide $500 million worth of air defenses, anti-tank weapons, ammunition and spare parts.

Germanys foreign and defense ministries said the support is focused on equipment like critical air defense capabilities. These are urgently needed to defend against Russias ongoing air strikes, which are killing more and more civilians throughout Ukraine.

The United Nations has said that Russias relentless pounding of urban areas behind the front line has killed more than 12,000 Ukrainian civilians.

Two deliveries of equipment, most of it bought in the United States, were scheduled for this month, although the Nordic package was more likely to arrive in September. Germany did not name the group of countries it would be working with.

The equipment is supplied based on Ukraines priority needs on the battlefield. NATO allies then locate the weapons and ammunition and send them on.

Germany has delivered or pledged military support to Ukraine worth around $47 billion since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Italian army Lt. Gen. Rodolfo Sganga, chief of staff for NATOs Allied Joint Force Command Naples, helped catch a man suspected of snatching a necklace from a woman in the southern Italian city over the weekend, the newspaper Il Mattino reported Monday. (Cynthia Vernat/Allied Joint Force Command Naples)



NAPLES, Italy  An Italian general who serves under the U.S. Navys highest-ranking admiral in Europe and Africa recently helped catch a man suspected of snatching a necklace from a woman in Naples.

Lt. Gen. Rodolfo Sganga, the chief of staff for NATOs Allied Joint Force Command Naples, was walking with his wife downtown on Saturday when he heard a woman screaming that she had been robbed, the Italian newspaper Il Mattino reported on Monday.

Sganga chased and caught the man at a nearby piazza. Italian police arrested the suspect and found the necklace in his possession, according to the Il Mattino report.

Italian army Lt. Gen. Rodolfo Sganga, chief of staff for NATOs Allied Joint Force Command Naples, helped nab a suspected necklace thief over the weekend, according to Italian newspaper Il Mattino. (Facebook/Allied Joint Force Command Naples)



Sganga has served in his role under Adm. Stuart Munsch since January. Munsch is commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Force Command Naples.

Sganga also heads the European Union Coordination Element, according to his NATO biography.

The U.S. military presence in Naples includes Naval Support Activity Naples, which is home to U.S. 6th Fleet. The base hosts more than 50 commands and about 8,500 personnel, according to its website.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at the opening ceremony of the Knesset Museum in the old building of the Israeli parliament, in Jerusalem, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)



JERUSALEM  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday hinted that ceasefire efforts in Gaza are now focused on a comprehensive deal that would release the remaining hostages all at once, rather than in phases.

Arab officials told The Associated Press last week that mediators Egypt and Qatar were preparing a new framework for a deal that would include the release of all remaining hostages in one go in return for a lasting ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

The long-running indirect talks appeared to break down last month. But a Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo for ceasefire talks on Tuesday, Egypts state-run Qahera news channel reported, a sign that efforts have not been abandoned after 22 months of war.

Israel has threatened to widen its military offensive against Hamas to the areas of Gaza that it does not yet control, and where most of the territorys 2 million residents have sought refuge.

Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire. The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war. Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.

I want all of them

In an interview with Israels i24 News network broadcast Tuesday, Netanyahu was asked if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal. Egyptian Foreign Ministry Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

I think its behind us, Netanyahu replied. We tried, we made all kinds of attempts, we went through a lot, but it turned out that they were just misleading us.

I want all of them, he said of the hostages. The release of all the hostages, both alive and dead  thats the stage were at.

He added, however, that Israels demands havent changed, and that the war will end only when all hostages are returned and Hamas has surrendered. He has said that even then, Israel will maintain open-ended security control over the territory.

Hamas has long called for a comprehensive deal but says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The militant group has refused to lay down its arms, as Israel has demanded.

UN warns about starvation, malnutrition

The United Nations on Tuesday warned that starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric reported the warning from the World Food Program and said Gazas Health Ministry told U.N. staff in Gaza that five people died over the last 24 hours from malnutrition and starvation.

The ministry says 121 adults and 101 children have died of malnutrition-related causes during the war.

Against this backdrop, humanitarian supplies entering Gaza remain far below the minimum required to meet peoples immense needs, Dujarric said.

The U.N. and its humanitarian partners are doing everything possible to bring aid into Gaza, he said, but still face significant delays and impediments from Israeli authorities that prevent the delivery of food and other essentials at the scale needed.

Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in that 2023 attack. Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals.

Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory toward famine. It has killed more than 61,400 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals. The U.N. and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties. Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.

Israel says it struck militants disguised as aid workers

In a separate development, the Israeli military said it recently struck a group of militants in Gaza who were disguised as aid workers and using a car with the logo of international charity World Central Kitchen.

The army said it carried out an airstrike on the men after confirming with the charity that they were not affiliated with it and that the car did not belong to it.

World Central Kitchen confirmed that the men and the vehicle were not affiliated with it. We strongly condemn anyone posing as World Central Kitchen or other humanitarians, as this endangers civilians and aid workers, it said in a statement.

The military shared video footage showing several men in yellow vests standing around a vehicle with the charitys logo on its roof. The military said five of the men were armed.

The charity, founded in 2010, dispatches teams that can quickly provide meals on a mass scale in conflict zones and after natural disasters.

In April, an Israeli strike killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. Israel quickly admitted it had mistakenly killed the aid workers and launched an investigation.

In November, an Israeli strike killed five people, including a World Central Kitchen worker who Israel said was part of the Hamas attack that sparked the war. The charity said at the time that it was unaware the employee had any connection to the attack.

Associated Press reporters Samy Magdy and Fay Abuelgasim in Cairo and Edith M. Lederer in New York contributed.
Our government has not been a good advocate for Austin, Debra Tice said. (Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post)



DAMASCUS, Syria  The American journalist was held in a makeshift jail controlled by a top Syrian security official, a row of small cells with metal doors off a street in western Damascus. The prisoner had a request for his captors: Could he have soap, a towel, something to read?

Days later, Austin Tice made a desperate bid for freedom. He squeezed his body through the window of his cell and threw the towel over an exterior wall topped with shards of glass.

A reporter known for his courage in covering Syrias brutal civil war and a Marine veteran who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan, Tice, 31, had been detained in mid-August 2012 near the Syrian capital.

His escape that October was short-lived, according to U.S. and Syrian officials, as well as Tices interrogator. Tices captors put out an alert to security services across Damascus and swiftly recaptured him. From there, he would disappear into one of the worlds most secretive and repressive regimes.

Ever since, Tices family and three American presidents have tried to find him, an agonizing endeavor where at times the only constant appeared to be the swirl of unconfirmed information and the obduracy of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Despite intensive efforts to secure Tices release or confirm his status, the truth about his fate remains elusive, making his case one of the most difficult U.S. officials say they have ever encountered.

When the Assad regime crumbled in December 2024 after a whirlwind rebel advance, Tices family saw an opening at last. But after the prisons opened, there was no sign of Tice, alive or dead.

To reconstruct the search for Tice, The Washington Post spoke with more than 70 people on four continents who knew him or worked on the long effort to rescue him, many of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the matters sensitivity.

Tices family has been at the heart of the 13-year odyssey to find him, along with a rotating cast of diplomats, spies, investigators, religious figures, businessmen, journalists, activists and former hostages.

This account, which includes previously unknown details and unreported secret contacts between U.S. and Syrian officials, reveals how the authorities in Damascus blocked years of efforts to find Tice. From the moment he went missing, the regime steadfastly denied that it knew anything about him, even as it orchestrated the filming of a video, released in September 2012, to make it appear as though Islamist militants had captured him.

That video is the last visual proof of life they have, U.S. officials say. The Assad regime remained opaque and implacable until the end. As recently as 2023, a Syrian official received a message from Assad ahead of a meeting with U.S. officials, according to a person with knowledge of the event. The directive was simple: Do not talk about Austin Tice.

The silence about Tice has been filled with a stream of uncorroborated information and unverified tips for more than a decade. Then, in April, the Syrian security official who had held Tice in the makeshift prison in Damascus walked into the U.S. Embassy in Beirut.

His name was Bassam al-Hassan, a former member of Assads inner circle, and the most senior regime official to claim knowledge of what happened. He had a shocking story to tell, saying that Tice was killed in 2013 on Assads orders. But months have passed, and U.S. and Syrian officials say his account remains unsubstantiated.

Tices parents, Debra, a stay-at-home mother, and Marc, a former energy executive, have persevered in their quest to bring their son home through changes in presidential administrations, a pandemic and the end of the Syrian civil war.

They believe that their son is alive and that the U.S. government hasnt done enough to find him.

There is only one way of measuring this, Debra Tice said in an interview this month. If you didnt get him home, youve lost.

Part 1: The greatest thing Ive ever done

Damascus was so close, just four miles away. But for days, rebels had refused to take Tice into the capital, which was still in the grip of the Assad regime. Tice hated being stuck. He had this insane fantasy, he told a friend, of arriving in Damascus in time to witness fighters storming the presidential palace. So he started walking.

It was the summer of 2012. Like many foreign journalists covering the early years of Syrias devastating civil war, Tice had sneaked into the country from its border with Turkey to the north, relying on help from Syrians opposed to the regime.

Unlike other journalists, he had ventured farther south toward Damascus than nearly anyone else had dared. Getting there meant moving between battle zones with local units of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), an assortment of largely Sunni rebel groups, while avoiding arrest, or worse, by the regime and steering clear of Islamist rebels.

For Tice, documenting the war in Syria was both a moral imperative and a chance to reinvent himself, he told friends. Tice had served three combat tours as a Marine, including one in Afghanistans Helmand province in 2011. He was attending Georgetown Law School but dreaded the idea of becoming a lawyer. His marriage had ended.

A self-described news junkie, Tice had dreamed of being a reporter ever since he was a child growing up in southwest Houston, where his mother home-schooled him and his six younger siblings. He devoured coverage of the Arab Spring, a wave of anti-authoritarian protests that convulsed the Middle East. In early 2012, friends said, he began laying the groundwork for a trip to Syria as a freelance photojournalist.

Tice boarded a plane for Turkey in May after his spring semester at law school. This is either gonna be wildly successful or a complete disaster. Here goes nothing, he wrote on Twitter.

Equipped with a camera and a satellite phone, Tice began sending photos to McClatchy newspapers and Agence France-Presse. Before long he began writing stories, too. His first dispatch published by The Post, from the town of Khan Sheikhoun, appeared on June 19. It provided a vivid account of the guerrilla warfare tactics deployed by rebels against Assads forces.

After a pair of rebels crept toward a sniper post and launched two rocket-propelled grenades, the Syrian army responded with an ear-shattering barrage of directionless fire, Tice wrote.

Tice had years of military experience but was a newcomer to journalism. He peppered Mark Seibel, his editor at McClatchy, with questions about the trade. Early in his time in Syria, Tice wrote Seibel that he was debating the pros and cons of carrying a sidearm.

Would carrying a pistol be considered a significant breach of journalistic ethics, or do you think people would tend to understand, given the circumstances? Tice asked. Seibel wrote back that he strongly advised against it. Tice replied he would follow that advice.

In northern Syria, Tice met up with David Enders, another freelance journalist working for McClatchy, who spoke Arabic and had reported in Iraq. Enders urged Tice to return with him to Turkey at the end of June, but Tice demurred. He was determined to push south all the way to Damascus, Enders said. Tice and Enders would win a Polk award for their reporting on the war.

Some rebels suspected Tice of being a spy, something his military training did little to dispel. He showed them how to fire weapons and once prevented an inexperienced fighter from being severely injured by the back blast from a shoulder-fired rocket-propelled grenade, Enders said. Seibel told Tice in a message that he had heard from Enders that some fighters thought he was with the FBI  but also that he was brave as sh*t.

By mid-July, Tice had arrived at al-Tal, several miles north of Damascus. After growing frustrated with the delays, he set out on foot for the capital. He made it about halfway there before being stopped by some overly helpful civilians who called the FSA, Tice wrote in an email to his editors.

The alarmed rebels retrieved Tice and confined him to a room for a couple of days for his own safety, Tice told a colleague and recounted in an email to his editors.

At the end of July, the rebels finally took him to Damascus. Tice crossed the city from one rebel-held suburb to another, disguising himself as a woman in a veil and abaya to pass through government checkpoints, he wrote in a first-person account published by McClatchy.

At one point, he had to step out of a taxi and cross an intersection on foot. The abaya did little to conceal his 6-3, 220-pound infantry officer frame. He was shot at and narrowly missed being captured.

The risks Tice had taken made some colleagues blanch. His tale of crossing Damascus was astonishing, and not in a good way, said a person who worked with him. It made me question his judgment.

Tice, however, had enough of people telling him to be careful. In a Facebook post that month, he castigated Americans for losing the sense that there are actually things out there worth dying for. Coming to Syria, he wrote, was the greatest thing Ive ever done.

After he reached the southern Damascus suburb of Darayya, Tice began reporting what would have been his fourth story for The Post. He went to the nearby town of Jdeidat Artouz, which was then controlled by Jabhat al-Nusra, an Islamist rebel group allied with al-Qaida at the time. The place was creepy, Tice said on Twitter, and he didnt feel safe there.

By Aug. 10, he had returned to Darayya and began focusing on how to get to Beirut for a long-anticipated vacation after nearly three months in Syria. He submitted a 1,700-word report to The Post, he told Seibel, that would run in the coming days. The piece was about how Jabhat al-Nusra set in motion a shit storm that culminated in a government massacre, Tice wrote in an email.

The draft described a mass execution by government forces and allied militias, according to a copy reviewed by The Post. Saturday, Aug. 11, was Tices 31st birthday. He and FSA rebels celebrated with a pool party at the farmhouse where they were staying. Taylor Swift was playing; there was whiskey on hand. Best birthday ever, Tice wrote on Twitter.

When Seibel didnt see a story in The Post by the following Wednesday, Aug. 15, he began to worry. The same day, Seibel recalled, he got a call from Marc Tice saying he hadnt heard from his son. Seibel emailed Douglas Jehl, The Posts then-foreign editor. By the following day, The Post had contacted the U.S. government, according to Seibels notes. (Seibel was an editor at The Post from 2019 to 2024.)

Tices would-be fourth story for The Post was never published. Liz Sly, then a Beirut-based correspondent for The Post, recalls arguing at the time that running the piece could endanger Tice.

Since the day Austin disappeared, The Washington Post has been unrelenting in its effort to find out what happened to him and to support his family, a spokesperson for The Post said. Austin must come home.

Seibel later reviewed a record from Tices satellite phone company that showed that the last time the device was active was at 11:37 coordinated universal time on Monday, Aug. 13, midafternoon in Syria. As friends and colleagues scrambled to re-create his movements, some witnesses told them they had seen Tice get into a taxi in Darayya.

Tices disappearance came at a tense moment in U.S.-Syria relations. The United States had already shuttered its embassy in Damascus. A week after Tice vanished, President Barack Obama said the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime would be a red line for U.S. policy.

By then, U.S. officials had begun working through the Czech Embassy, the representative for U.S. diplomatic interests in Syria, and other intermediaries, to find Tice.

Two weeks after the disappearance, Eva Filipi, the Czech ambassador to Syria, told a television interviewer that according to information she had received, Tice was alive and had been detained by government forces on the outskirts of Damascus.

The next month, Seibels phone rang at 4 a.m. in Washington. It was a woman in Canada, an amateur sleuth who had been scouring the internet for clues about Tice. She told Seibel that a video of him had just been posted on YouTube.

In the shaky 46-second clip, a blindfolded Tice stumbles up a rocky slope, pushed by masked men carrying rifles and saying, Allahu akbar, or God is great. Tice stops, leans into one of his captors, and recites part of a Muslim prayer. Then Tice says, Oh Jesus. Oh Jesus.

Part 2: Captured by the regime

When Tice left Darayya in August, he was hoping to cross into Lebanon and proceed to Beirut. His taxi driver, however, had other plans, according to two senior Syrian officials. The driver tipped off the authorities, an official said, and the vehicle was stopped at a checkpoint. The driver apparently kept Tices laptop, the official said, adding that U.S. authorities later traced it to a restaurant in the greater Damascus area.

Tice, like tens of thousands of Syrians, disappeared into the regimes vast detention apparatus, which included prisons run by official security forces as well as associated militias. He was handed over to Hassan, according to U.S. and current and former Syrian officials.

Safwan Bahloul, a former three-star general who worked in Syrias external intelligence service, said in an interview at his home in Syria that Hassan had tasked him with interrogating Tice and gave him the Americans iPhone. Bahloul, who went by the code name Abu Zeid, said his job was to find out whether Tice was merely a journalist or an American spy. U.S. officials have not corroborated Bahlouls account.

Tice was held in a makeshift prison down the street from Hassans office, Bahloul said. The premises also served as a parking lot for pickup trucks mounted with medium-caliber machine guns.

Bahloul, who speaks fluent English and has spent time in Britain and the U.S., said he brought Tice a sandwich from a well-known shop and insisted his handcuffs be removed by the guards during their interrogation sessions.

At one point, Bahloul said, he saw officers working with Hassan getting ready to film what he characterized as a farce to camouflage where [Tice] was arrested and by whom. Mohammed Makhlouf, an associate of Hassans, provided the clothing and weapons for the video, Bahloul said, to make security personnel look like militants.

The effort failed: Fellow journalists covering Syria immediately found the YouTube video suspicious, a clumsy attempt to pin Tices abduction on Islamist militants or rebel forces. The U.S. government agreed. An intelligence analysis of the video indicated that it was shot near a regime facility, a former Trump administration official said.

Tices daring escape came after the video was released, U.S. officials believe. In late October 2012, his captors issued a bulletin that circulated internally among security agencies saying Tice was at large. It bore his picture. Two Syrian officials also confirmed that Tice had managed to break out of detention.

Then came a stroke of bad luck: Seeking help, Tice knocked on the wrong door, the officials said. Unbeknownst to him, the neighborhood where he had fled was home to top regime officials, including Assads intelligence chief, Ali Mamlouk, a senior Syrian official said. Tice was swiftly recaptured.

Despite denials in Damascus, U.S. officials felt confident that Syrian authorities held Tice. That conviction deepened in November, when someone accessed Tices Facebook account using the correct password. The log-on was traced by U.S. investigators to a Damascus block that also housed a Syrian military intelligence office, according to a former U.S. official and another person familiar with the matter.

Meanwhile, from the first days of Tices disappearance, there had been strenuous efforts by his family, the U.S. government, McClatchy and The Post to try to secure his release, often working through intermediaries because of the isolation of the Syrian regime.

We thought it was going to be days at most, then weeks at most, said Griff Witte, a former editor at The Post. No one goes into these things thinking its going to be 13 years.

Hope, Witte said he had learned, can be a dangerous thing.

One moment of raised hopes came in early 2013, when an unofficial back-channel effort to release Tice appeared close to fruition. Witte asked Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to Syria, to reach out to Faisal Mekdad, then the countrys deputy foreign minister. Crocker agreed to try. The two men spoke on the phone on March 17, Crocker said in an interview.

Mekdad said that he has instructions from the highest levels to do everything possible, Crocker recounted in an email to Witte and a senior State Department official. But Mekdad repeated that the government knows nothing about the case and added that the important thing is Austins safety and that nothing be done to jeopardize it.

Mekdad, communicating recently through a family member, emphasized that the Syrian Foreign Ministry in that period relied on the countrys security agencies for information on Tice, and their consistent response was that these agencies had no information about his whereabouts.

Four days later, Crocker received an email from Witte, who was coordinating The Posts efforts to find Tice. The Syrians now say the release will be next week, Witte wrote. No exact date. Witte was not directly in touch with Syrian officials and was working through a contact at the Liechtenstein Foundation for State Governance, an organization that offers mediation among countries in conflict.

Then came delays and excuses, relayed via the foundations intermediaries. Tice had a fever and needed rest and medical treatment; after he recovered, there would be a lengthy interrogation. Only then would he be released, according to an email Crocker received from Witte.

The days and months stretched on without Tice being released.

We were very hopeful, Marc Tice recalled. But as time went by, they came to understand that it was misplaced hope, he said. Tices abduction came at a time when kidnappings of American and European reporters and aid workers were on the rise. In 2014, three Americans held by the Islamic State  including journalist James Foley  were beheaded, their executions videotaped. The perceived failures in how those cases were handled led Obama to launch a policy review, which culminated in an overhaul of the governments approach to hostage situations.

Meanwhile, for the Tice family, it was the beginning of what would become more than a decade of desperate advocacy in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East.

In 2014, Debra Tice traveled to Damascus, where she stayed at a small hotel in the center of the city.

She handed out fliers about her son and tried to meet with the authorities, largely without success. Sometimes she went to the Czech Embassy to see Filipi, the ambassador. The two women would have lunch and pray together.

As the weeks went on, Filipi said, people began approaching Debra Tice with tips about her son and asking for money in exchange.

They were saying, He was in Aleppo, he was in Homs, Filipi recalled. She told Debra Tice the information was worthless. I said to Debi, its time to leave.

Filipi continued to press. She met with Assad at least twice, she said in an interview, raising the fate of Tice and several other Americans, dual citizens whose cases have largely not been made public. Assads response was courteous but noncommittal, Filipi said: He asked where to convey any information he might gather.

Debra Tice would return to Damascus in 2015, part of her unrelenting search to find her son. A devout Catholic, she had raised seven children.

I make amazing chicken soup, and no matter what happens in those babys diapers, I can make them absolutely white again, she said. Thats who I am.

But her sons disappearance also turned her into someone else. Someone who knew the intricacies of the Syrian regime as well as any expert, someone who pounded on any door if she thought it could help.

My mom, really she should have been a reporter, Austin Tice wrote in an email to an editor in July 2012. Or a detective.

Part 3: A refusal to engage

The U.S. governments search for Tice now stretches across four administrations. Three presidents  Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden  have tried to bring him home.

Efforts have included meetings between CIA officers and Syrian intelligence officials in Oman and Damascus, previously unreported contacts that occurred even as the CIA was covertly training and equipping Syrian rebels. They also involved attempts to influence Assad and people close to him by offering incentives such as access to advanced medical equipment affected by sanctions.

U.S. officials say they repeatedly offered the Assad regime what they believed was a face-saving off-ramp: free Tice and no more questions asked. If Assad wanted to stick to the story suggested by the 2012 video, namely that Tice had been held by Islamist militants, the U.S. would publicly accept it, diplomats said.

In 2015 and 2016, according to two former U.S. intelligence officials, a senior CIA officer traveled to Muscat, the Omani capital, for meetings with Mohammed Dib Zaitoun, then the second-highest-ranking civilian intelligence official in Syria. The officer and his team met with the Syrian official in a government compound near the beach and drank tea in a private room with silk carpets on the floor.

The Americans conveyed their concerns about Tice and the anguish of his family. The Syrians didnt want to discuss Tice.

When the Americans pressed, the Syrians were adamant: They had no knowledge of Tices whereabouts. In the end, one of the former intelligence officials said, it amounted to a hill of beans.

In 2016, James C. OBrien, a career diplomat appointed by Obama to the new role of special envoy for hostage affairs, met twice with a senior Syrian intelligence official in a third country.

OBrien said he signaled that the U.S. was ready for the possibility that Tice had died.

I was very clear that I wanted his safe return, but if there was a different story to be told, it was time to tell it, OBrien recalled.

They had a number of ways to let it be known that he was not alive, and they chose not to take those. In the fall of 2017, another senior CIA officer traveled to Damascus, the first visit to the Syrian capital by an American official since the U.S. had shuttered its embassy there in early 2012, according to four former U.S. officials.

The officer flew from Oman to Beirut, then rode the 70 miles to Damascus in an armored SUV, where he met with Zaitoun, the senior civilian intelligence official, to discuss issues such as sanctions and counterterrorism. But he also raised Tice as a subject of concern to the U.S., according to the former officials.

He took back to his superiors in Washington a list of items of interest to Damascus, but for reasons that are unclear, the Trump administration did not pursue the opening, said two former officials.

During Trumps first term as president, he showed a keen interest in the plight of American hostages. In 2018, Robert OBrien became the special envoy for hostage affairs and met early on with the Tice family in a room at the State Department.

Debra Tice asked to start with a prayer. OBrien, who is Mormon, agreed. They all bowed their heads.

OBrien used back channels to communicate with the Syrian regime. In late 2018, the Vatican arranged a dinner in Rome for OBrien with prominent businesspeople, priests and cardinals. Among them was Suleiman Antoine Frangieh, a Christian politician in Lebanon who had grown up with Assad.

At OBriens request, Frangieh reached out to Assad, but the Syrian president responded that he did not know where Tice was. Assad added that if the Americans want assistance in searching for him, they should make the request openly and not in secret, Frangieh recalled in a statement to The Post.

That same year, CIA Director Gina Haspel created a cell dedicated to determining Tices status, according to several people familiar with the matter. The team consisted of eight to 10 people  a significant commitment of resources to an intelligence puzzle with only cold leads, recalled one former official.

Meanwhile, Debra Tice continued to challenge U.S. officials. If she had gone to Damascus, why couldnt they? In late 2019, two senior White House counterterrorism officials, Christopher Miller and Kash Patel, tried, but once they landed in Beirut, the trip was scuttled because of clashes in Lebanon.

By 2020, OBrien had been elevated to Trumps national security adviser and the moment appeared ripe for a new attempt at high-level diplomacy. U.S. officials believed they had several carrots to offer the Syrians, OBrien said in an interview. First, Trump was considering withdrawing some troops from Syria. Second, the U.S. was prepared to explore ways to assist Assads British-born wife, Asma, who was suffering from cancer, by facilitating access to medical equipment that might be difficult to import because of sanctions.

Meanwhile, some Persian Gulf Arab countries were starting to restore relations with Damascus. The U.S. asked those countries to make the reopening of their embassies in Syria contingent on Tices return.

In August 2020, U.S. officials made another push on Damascus. Patel and Roger Carstens, a former Special Forces officer who a few months before had been appointed envoy for hostage affairs, flew to Beirut in a second attempt to reach the Syrian capital. They were greeted by Abbas Ibrahim, Lebanons intelligence chief. The following morning, they rode in Ibrahims armored BMW, accompanied by several security vehicles, in a convoy to Damascus.

There they met with Mamlouk, Assads national intelligence chief and one of his closest advisers, for roughly two hours at Mamlouks office on the outskirts of the city. At one point, Carstens said in an interview, Mamlouk made clear that the regime had three priorities: withdrawal of U.S. troops, lifting of sanctions and reestablishment of diplomatic relations.

That gave Carstens an opening. He explained that those were significant requests that could take time and might involve seeking approval from Congress. But there might be a way to speed things up.

Mamlouk was intrigued: How?

By providing information about Tice and several other Americans believed to be held by the regime, Carstens said. They included Majd Kamalmaz, a psychotherapist who traveled to Syria in 2017 and was later confirmed killed.

Carstens and Patel asked Mamlouk for proof that Tice was still alive. The Syrians stonewalled, saying their own demands would need to be met first. Carstens and Patel returned to Washington empty-handed. The FBI, which Patel now leads, declined to comment about the meeting.

The following month, Trump called into Fox & Friends. Early in his term, Trump said, he had wanted to assassinate Assad, but Defense Secretary Jim Mattis opposed the step. I would have rather taken him out, I had him all set, Trump said on the show. Assad considered the comments an insult, Ibrahim said, and with Trump focused on his reelection campaign, further talks would have to wait for outreach by a new administration.

In May 2022, Biden met with Debra and Marc Tice at the White House, two days after their sons plight was highlighted at a White House Correspondents Association dinner where Biden was in attendance.

During the meeting in the Oval Office, Biden told the Tices that the administration would do everything it could, including making a push for direct meetings with the Syrians, recalled a former U.S. official familiar with the meeting.

But Biden was also careful to add that the family had to be prepared for the possibility that Tice might no longer be with us, the former official recalled.

By then, the U.S. government, led by the FBI, had interviewed witnesses, pursued leads, surged intelligence efforts and pressed for direct talks, but had not been able, officials say, to obtain confirmed evidence of Tices status. That gap made Tices case different from those of dozens of Americans whom the U.S. had successfully freed around the world.

In February 2023, two senior Biden officials, Joshua Geltzer and Brett McGurk, traveled to Oman for talks with the Syrians. They made clear in advance that the goal was to find out what had happened to Tice, having set the agenda with the sultan of Oman, who brokered the talks, according to two former U.S. officials familiar with the matter.

On the other side of the table was Imad Moustapha, an urbane veteran diplomat who was formerly Syrias ambassador to the U.S. and China, and three other Syrian officials.

Before the meeting in Muscat, Moustapha had met with Assad, a former Syrian official said. The president was categorical about the message to be conveyed: We dont know where Tice is and dont have him.

During the meeting, Geltzer pushed a copy of a document across the table, according to the former U.S. officials. It was the Wanted bulletin issued by the government when Tice escaped from detention in late October 2012.

Moustapha, genial but disciplined, made clear he did not have a mandate to engage.

It was like pushing a wet noodle across the table, said one of the former officials.

There was one small opening. The Syrians were interested in visiting oil and gas fields in rebel-held areas. Geltzer and McGurk agreed to raise the idea with Washington and report back in exchange for the Syrians helping with information about Tices status. Assad, meanwhile, was furious that Moustapha had even discussed Tice, the former Syrian official said. Who gave you the mandate to discuss anything? Assad asked, according to the official.

Deep down, the former Syrian official suspected there was a simple reason for Assads obstinacy: He knew what had happened to Tice. This is why he is categorically refusing to engage, the official said.

The teams returned to Oman three months later. The Americans offered to facilitate access to the energy facilities but met a brick wall about Tice. The meeting ended quickly.

Inside the U.S. government, the agencies trying to find Tice could reach no definitive conclusion on his fate. Since at least 2016, the intelligence community had assessed that Tice was alive, although with low confidence. However, after Assad was toppled in late 2024 and weeks went by with no breakthroughs  despite the government offering a $10 million reward for information  the CIA changed its assessment, saying Tice was probably dead, but again, with low confidence.

None of the alleged sightings of Tice after the 2012 video were ever verified by U.S. officials. Neither, however, were the reports of his death. As recently as last year, the leader of a Syrian rebel group approached Mouaz Moustafa, executive director of the Syrian Emergency Task Force, a Washington-based advocacy group, to tell him that he had found the spot in Damascus where Tice was buried.

The rebel leader smuggled a decaying foot from the grave to the Tanf U.S. military base in Syria, Moustafa and another person familiar with the matter said. The FBI tested the sample. It wasnt Tice. Part 4: A shocking account

The interrogation took place over several days in April in Beirut. Hassan, the Syrian official who had held Tice not long after his capture, spoke with CIA officers and FBI agents, who questioned him about the Assad regime, its ties to Iran and Tices fate.

Hassan said that Assad ordered him to have Tice killed in 2013 and that he tried to dissuade Assad, according to U.S. officials and another person familiar with the matter.

Hassan said he had Tice killed by a subordinate, the U.S. officials and other people familiar with the interview said. Attempts to reach Hassan by phone, email and through a close relative were unsuccessful.

The Post reached the subordinate, an officer who reported to Hassan and left Syria after the fall of the Assad regime. He agreed to speak on the condition that this name and whereabouts not be published.

I have never met Austin Tice, and I did not kill Austin Tice, he said.

U.S. officials have not corroborated Hassans story. Their counterparts in the new Syrian government dont believe his account. A senior Syrian security official noted that Hassan went to Iran after the Assad regime fell and that the Iranian government facilitated his travel to Lebanon, raising the prospect that his story could be disinformation.

Hassan described to U.S. officials a place where Tices remains could be found. But months later, the location remains unsearched by U.S. or Syrian officials. The Tices say U.S. officials told them they needed time to determine the equipment necessary to properly excavate it. Privately, U.S. officials also cite security concerns. The Syrian security official said there had been delays in coordinating a visit to the site.

The FBI declined to comment, saying the investigation remains ongoing.

Some of those involved in the search for Tice say it is possible there will never be definitive proof of his fate. They likened it to the quest to find Robert Levinson, a retired FBI agent who vanished in Iran in 2007. It was not until 13 years later that the U.S. government concluded Levinson was dead. His family is still seeking his remains.

Trump, for his part, has sounded a cautionary tone. Theres been virtually no sign  of Austin, he said in late March. Its been a long time. Its been many, many years.  So, you know, a lot of bad things happen, but we will never  until we find out something definitive one way or the other  we will never stop looking for him.

Anna Kelly, a White House spokeswoman, said this week that while the Trump administration has no new details to share, our search for Austin will not end until his case is resolved.

The new Syrian government, led by former militant Ahmed al-Sharaa  formerly known by his nom de guerre, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani  is cooperating with U.S. efforts to locate Tice.

A senior Syrian security official said investigators are pursuing a new lead based on recent interviews with two of Hassans associates. His former office manager and a close friend told them that in 2013 Tice was taken from Hassans compound by a high-level operative of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militia allied with Assad and Iran. Then the trail goes cold, the official said.

The U.S. government has no corroboration of that account.

In April, the Trump administration allowed Debra and Marc Tice to review declassified secret intelligence collected in the search for their son, according to a person familiar with the matter. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence, in an email to The Post, called it a special and unprecedented briefing and said the records were not cleared for public release.

But for the Tices, access to the information only deepened their disillusionment with U.S. efforts. Its been a charade, Debra Tice said. Our government has not been a good advocate for Austin.

Earlier this year, Debra Tice returned to Damascus, where she met for more than an hour with Sharaa in a formal reception room. Sharaa, whom she had met before, once told her a story. Back when he was a young militant imprisoned in Iraq, he was reported dead. His mother refused to believe it. Even when others questioned her mental state, Sharaas mother bought clothes for her son and insisted he was alive.

Thats very, very inspirational to me, Debra Tice said. My sons not dead. Hes walking around somewhere. Nakashima and Schaffer reported from Washington, and Slater from Williamstown, Massachusetts. Karen DeYoung in Washington, Mohamad El Chamaa and Suzan Haidamous in Beirut, and Fakhr Al Ayoubi in Syria contributed to this report.
Basic cadet candidates from the class of 2029 arrive at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., for in-processing on June 25, 2025. The Justice Department settled lawsuits challenging race-based admissions at the Colorado school and also at the U.S. Military Academy. (Trevor Cokley/U.S. Air Force)



The Justice Department this week settled lawsuits challenging race-based admissions at the U.S. Military Academy and the Air Force Academy, ending years of legal battles over how the elite military schools select officer candidates.

The settlements with the nonprofit group Students for Fair Admissions follow the decision of President Donald Trumps administration soon after taking office to stop considering race as an admissions factor at the service academies.

The agreement avoids the need for continued litigation and includes terms that help ensure that admission is not based on race or ethnicity, a Justice Department statement Tuesday said.

Admission to these prestigious military institutions should be based exclusively on merit, Attorney General Pam Bondi said in the statement.

Upon taking office in January, Trump approved a series of executive orders to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives from the federal government, including a directive to military academies to halt the practice of race-based admissions.

The previous administration had defended using race in a limited way as part of a holistic review of each service academy applicant.

Students for Fair Admissions filed lawsuits against West Point, the Air Force Academy and the Naval Academy in 2023 after the U.S. Supreme Court said military service academies arent subject to the landmark ruling that ended affirmative action at colleges.

The court at the time said military academies were not considered in that case in light of the potentially distinct interests they may present.

In its suit against West Point, the nonprofit group argued that the institution used race as a determinative factor in its admissions process and unconstitutionally weighed it against other considerations, such as objective metrics and leadership potential.

President Joe Bidens administration countered that the academies used race in a limited manner, and that they benefitted from race considerations because the military needed a well-qualified and diverse officer corps to lead an increasingly diverse group of fighters.

Litigation in all three cases had continued when Trump took office. Shortly afterward, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memo ordering an end to race-based admissions at military academies.

A federal judge in July dismissed the suit against the Naval Academy at the request of both Students for Fair Admissions and the Justice Department.
A convoy of soldiers assigned from the 273rd Military Police Company of the District of Columbia Army National Guard arrive at the National Mall to conduct patrol operations on Aug. 12, 2025. (Deonte Rowell/U.S. Army)



WASHINGTON  About half of the 800 National Guard troops ordered to help crack down on crime in the nations capital have arrived as logistics for the mission are still being figured out, an Army official said.

Guard troops on Tuesday night were near monuments on the National Mall and the U.S. Park Police facility in Anacostia, according to the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Five Humvees lined the street at the corner of Jefferson Drive and 14th Street SW, between the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Holocaust Memorial Museum, according to news reports. Guard troops walked the sidewalks that form walking paths around the monuments. Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and vehicles marked as Secret Service Police and Park Police were nearby.

As we do more mission analysis, and the civilian law enforcement decides where to place them  you might see them employed in other places. Its still too early to know, the Army official said.

The official said it was likely that the rest of the Guard troops ordered to deploy within the city would arrive Wednesday. The majority of the 800 troops are local Guard members so they can travel home at the end of the day if they live within 50 miles of the nations capital.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, center, and Gen. James Mingus, service vice chief of staff, right, meet with a soldier assigned to the 273rd Military Police Company of the District of Columbia National Guard during patrol operations at the National Mall on Aug. 12, 2025. (Joseph Spraktes/U.S. Army)



Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Gen. James Mingus, the Army vice chief of staff, visited the D.C. Armory on Tuesday to greet troops and leaders as they prepared for the mission. Driscoll also visited troops on the National Mall later in the evening.

Im proud of the work these men and women are doing to make D.C. safer, Driscoll said Wednesday in a post on X.

President Donald Trump on Monday ordered 800 Guard troops to help quell crime in the city and said the federal government would take control of the Metropolitan Police Department.

Under the citys Home Rule Act, the president can take over the D.C. police for a period of up to 30 days by declaring special conditions of an emergency nature exist. After that time, the police would revert to local control unless Congress passes a law to allow a longer period of federal control.

Trump told reporters Wednesday at the Kennedy Center that hes going to submit a crime bill to Congress and will ask lawmakers to approve an extension for his administrations control of the D.C. police to address crime.

Were going to need a crime bill that were going to be putting in, and its going to pertain initially to D.C., he said. Were going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days.

The Trump administration is also evaluating plans that would establish a Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force composed of hundreds of National Guard troops tasked with rapidly deploying into American cities facing protests or other unrest, The Washington Post reported.

The plan calls for 600 troops to be on standby at all times so they can deploy in as little as one hour, according to documents reviewed by the Post. They would be split into two groups of 300 and be stationed at military bases in Alabama and Arizona, with purview of regions east and west of the Mississippi River, respectively.

Army Brig. Gen. Leland Blanchard, the adjutant general of the District of Columbia Army National Guard, speaks with a DEA agent during patrol operations at the National Mall on Aug. 12, 2025. (Joseph Spraktes/U.S. Army)



The National Guard tested the concept ahead of the 2020 election, putting 600 troops on alert in Arizona and Alabama as the country braced for possible political violence.

The Army activated the D.C. National Guard on Monday under Title 32, the service said. Of the 800 Guard members activated, between 100-200 troops will be supporting law enforcement at any given time. Their duties will include an array of tasks from administrative, logistics and physical presence in support of law enforcement, the Army said.

It is unclear how long the troops will be in Washington. During an appearance on Fox News on Monday night, Defense Secretary Hegseth was asked how long the Guard would be on the citys streets.

I dont know, weeks, months. What will it take? Thats the presidents call, but were going to be there for him to execute as swiftly as possible, he responded.
By Jonathan Stempel

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Zelle was sued on Wednesday by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who said the electronic payment platform's refusal to adopt critical safety features enabled fraudsters to steal more than $1 billion from consumers.

The lawsuit in a New York state court in Manhattan followed the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's decision in March to drop a similar case.

That agency has ended most enforcement activity following U.S. President Donald Trump's return to the White House.

Zelle was launched in 2017, and competes with apps such as PayPal's Venmo and Block's Cash App.

Its parent, Early Warning Services, is owned by seven large U.S. banks: Bank of America, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, PNC, Truist, US Bank and Wells Fargo.

James said Zelle's parent and the banks knew for years that the platform was vulnerable to fraudsters but resisted basic safeguards, with the banks sometimes ignoring customer complaints while Zelle let fraudsters stay on the platform.

The result was "rampant" fraud that Zelle sometimes refused to address even after it occurred, despite its assurances it was a safe alternative to cash and checks and "backed by the banks, so you know it's secure," the complaint said.

In a statement, Zelle said scams start when criminals trick people into sending money, rather than on the platform itself, and holding it liable could lead to higher fees for consumers.

Zelle also said more than 99.95% of transactions it handles are completed without reported fraud, leading the industry.

"This lawsuit is a political stunt to generate press, not progress," Zelle said. "The Attorney General should focus on the hard facts, stopping criminal activity and adherence to the law, not overreach and meritless claims."

Early Warning Services is based in Scottsdale, Arizona. The seven banks were not named as defendants.

PUPPY, UTILITY BILL SCAMS

James said typical scams involved hacking into users' accounts and making unauthorized transfers, convincing users to send money for nonexistent goods and services, and impersonating banks, government offices and utilities.

According to the complaint, one victim was told his electricity would be shut off unless he paid Con Edison $1,477 via Zelle, to an account named "Coned Billing."

Another victim said Chase and Zelle wouldn't help him after he sent $2,600 in two installments via Zelle to buy a puppy, and realized he had been scammed when the purported seller demanded more money.
The WRC found that the unnamed worked should be reinstated to the supervisory position.

An airport security supervisor who kissed a female colleague on two separate occasions at work - once while she operated an x-ray machine - should have his demotion rescinded.

That is the finding by Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Adjudicator, Breiffni ONeill who has recommended that the worker be reinstated to the supervisory position with all attendant duties and remuneration restored within a week of receipt of the recommendation.

In the case, the un-named airport authority demoted the un-named worker on November 7th 2023 from Airport Search Unit Supervisor (ASUS) to ASU Officer (ASUO) and issued him with a final written warning valid for 18 months.

The sanctions were imposed following two incidents classified by the employer as 'gross misconduct'.

The Employer also confirmed that the female ASU Officer involved in the 'kissing' incidents was subject to a separate disciplinary process and received a final written warning. Demotion was not applicable in that case, as no lower position exists within the Airport Search Unit.

The incidents occurred on September 3rd and 4th 2023 and involved the worker kissing a colleague during active operational duties  once while the colleague was operating an X-ray machine and once in a premium services area while the worker was acting in a supervisory capacity.

Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

At the time of these incidents, the male worker - represented by SIPTU in the case - was employed full-time on a 40-hour contract and earning an annual salary of 46,154.

The employer found that the male workers conduct breached the Dignity and Respect at Work Policy, the Code of Conduct, and protocols governing safety-critical operations.

On September 5th 2023, the worker was suspended on full pay pending an investigation into the incidents.

The airport operator obtained statements from two ASU Officers who witnessed the first incident and from a Security Duty Manager who reviewed CCTV footage of the second incident.

The colleague involved, an ASU Officer, confirmed that the incidents occurred and acknowledged that she was operating an X-ray machine at the time.

The male worker attended an investigation meeting on October 6th 2023, where he admitted to both incidents and acknowledged that the behaviour did not meet professional standards.

The worker expressed remorse and accepted that his actions represented a lapse in judgment.

The worker was demoted in November 2023 and the Disciplinary Officer in the case highlighted that supervisors are held to the highest standards of conduct and that the behaviour in question had the potential to compromise both safety and the employers reputation.

The ASUS appealed the demotion sanction to the WRC and in his recommendation, Mr ONeill found that the decision to demote the worker was excessive in light of his unblemished prior record, his acceptance of responsibility, and the employers failure to consider a less punitive and reasonable alternative.

Mr ONeill found that the final written warning issued to the worker served a corrective purpose, consistent with the intended function of such warnings.

He said: The fact that this warning remained on the workers file for 18 months supports the view that this sanction, in and of itself, was proportionate.

Mr ONeill stated that the decision not to explore a departmental transfer for the demoted supervisor as an alternative to demotion calls into question the true extent of the safety concerns.

He said: If the supervisor role was indeed so critical from a safety perspective, one would reasonably expect that the worker would have been reassigned to a role with materially lower safety responsibilities rather than simply demoted to another safety-critical post.

He said: This inconsistency undermines the credibility of the employer's rationale and suggests a lack of proportionality in the disciplinary action taken."

The worker began his employment with the Employer in mid-2018 as an Airport Search Unit Officer and in 2021, he applied for and was appointed to a supervisory position following the employers selection process.

The employer told the WRC that the disciplinary process was fair, transparent, and consistent with internal policy.

It asserted that the demotion and final written warning were proportionate responses to the misconduct.
The suspect aged in her late 30s was arrested yesterday after detectives had spent some time looking for her.

A woman who previously ran a HR company is due to appear in court later to face multiple charges following a lengthy investigation by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB).

The suspect aged in her late 30s who is originally from Cork was arrested in Galway yesterday after detectives had spent some time looking for her.

This was after they received directions last month from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to charge her with the offences.

She is expected to face multiple charges of forgery, deception and using a false instrument.

The suspect was previously arrested late last year as part of the detailed investigation before being released without charge.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Stock photo

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

It is alleged that she had set up a human resources business in 2019 and several of her former clients have contacted gardai to allege she was hired and paid to do work on their behalf that they claim was not carried out.

The company had purported to assist employees who believed they had been mistreated in the workplace.

One woman made a complaint to gardai at Drogheda Garda station on November 3, 2022.

She said she had paid the suspect almost 3,800 for her services, and alleged she did not undertake much of the work she claimed to be doing on her behalf.

Several former clients of the company have raised concerns to gardai about how she handled their cases.

It is understood that the GNECB have investigated a pattern of complaints to gardai across the country, including in Dublin, Louth and Meath.

Ten years ago the suspect pleaded guilty to a fraud charge as part of a different investigation.

At the time she was based in Limerick where she attended the local university.

Kilmallock District Court heard that in that case she used a debit card belonging to a friends mother 51 times, running up a bill of 3,000, including a 500 deposit on a car and a three-night stay in a Limerick hotel which cost 240.

At the time, she was an organiser of a major charity event in Limerick, which collapsed after it emerged she had defrauded the woman.

Her solicitor told the court in April, 2015, that the fraud had coincided with a very difficult period" in her life.
The boy had no connection to the accused, and the boy's parents witnessed the incident, the court heard

A father of two has been refused bail after being accused of stabbing a 14-year-old boy in the hand with a shard of glass from a broken beer bottle to steal his e-scooter in Dublin.

Daniel Hayes, 29, of Bishop Street Flats, Dublin 8, was charged with attempted robbery and assault causing harm to the youth on Saturday.

Mr Hayes appeared before Judge Michael Ramsey at Dublin District Court this week and was remanded in custody pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Garda Saman Grewal said the accused was arrested at his home address and made no reply when arrested over the incident at around 10.20 am on August 9 in the Dublin 8 area.

Objecting to bail, she cited the seriousness of the case, telling Judge Ramsey that the accused allegedly attempted to rob the teenager.

It was claimed the accused ran to the boy and tried to take his e-scooter several times before the boy was "stabbed in the back of his hand with a shard of glass", causing a deep cut and leaving the teen in fear.

He received medical attention at Crumlin Children's Hospital and was not required to attend the bail hearing.

The boy had no connection to the accused, and the boy's parents witnessed the incident, the court heard.

Garda Grewal voiced fears for members of the public if Mr Hayes got bail, and she told the court the piece of glass came from a broken beer bottle.

In cross-examination with defence counsel Kevin McCrave, she said there was CCTV evidence.

She agreed with him that an identity parade was not held and that the accused retained the presumption of innocence.

Mr McCrave told the judge the mother of his client's children had passed away recently, that he also cared for his own mother, and was attending a psychologist.

The barrister said his client, likely to face trial in the Circuit Court, could spend a lengthier time in custody awaiting trial than any potential sentence imposed. The defence stressed that Mr Hayes would abide by any conditions deemed necessary by the court.

However, Judge Ramsey denied his bail.

Unemployed Mr Hayes, who has yet to indicate a plea, was granted legal aid after the judge noted he was on social welfare. He will appear again at Cloverhill District Court on Thursday.
Hugh Malone is accused of the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of Father John Murray

Stephen Brannigan (left) and Fr John Murray (right) were attacked in Downpatrick on Sunday

A man appeared in court today accused of murder and the attempted murder of a priest.

Appearing at Newtownards Magistrates Court by video link from police custody, 30-year-old Hugh Malone confirmed his identity and when asked whether he understood the two charges against him, the told the clerk: Yes, I understand the charges Maam.

Malone, listed as no fixed abode, Belfast, is accused of the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of Father John Murray on 10 August this year.

Stephen Brannigan (left) and Fr John Murray (right) were attacked in Downpatrick on Sunday

The body of 56-year-old Mr Brannigan was found in a house in Marian Park in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon and on the same day, Father Murray was attacked at St Patricks Church in the town.

It is understood that he remains in hospital having sustained a serious head injury.

After serving the Diocese of Down and Conor for 50 years, Father Murray had been preparing to celebrate his last Mass before retirement at St Patrick's Church when he was attacked.

In court today, a detective inspector gave evidence that she believed he could connect Malone to both charges.

The senior officer agreed with defence counsel Sean Doherty that when Malone was being interviewed by police, he had the assistance of both an appropriate adult and a register intermediary, as well as his solicitor.

Hugh Malone

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

There is an obvious and very significant mental health context and that will be our focus moving forward, he told the court.

As there as no application for bail, Deputy District Judge Peter Prenter remanded Malone into custody, adjourning the case to 4 September.

Mr Brannigan, a father and a grandfather, was pronounced dead at the scene after officers and ambulance service personnel called to the property following a report of the death of a man at the address.

In statement, Mr Brannigans family described him as a beloved dad and granddad and thanked those who had surrounded us with such love and care following his killing.

They added: With so many others, we pray for his full recovery and thank him for his own prayers for us which he has conveyed through the priests of the parish.

A mass heard yesterday Fr Murray is getting stronger while recovering in hospital where he had been in a serious condition.

The special service was conducted by the Bishop of Down and Connor Alan McGuckian at St Colmcilles Church in support of the families of both Mr Brannigan and Fr Murray.

It has been reported he had been approached by a man who asked him to hear his confession prior to being attacked.

Fr Murray was preparing to conduct his last service as he was on the cusp of retirement from the priesthood and scheduled to step down this week.
Ivan Carson appeared at Newtownards Magistrates Court by video link from prison

An Co Down architect turned sex offender was ordered to stand trial accused of breaching the sex offenders register by moving to France.

As Ivan William Carson appeared at Newtownards Magistrates Court by video link from prison, a prosecuting lawyer submitted there was a prima facie case against the 71-year-old.

Carson, with an address on Central Avenue in Bangor, is in custody charged with three offences of breaching the notification requirements of the sex offenders register.

The charges, alleged to have been committed between 6 June and 15 December last year, accuse Carson of:

Failing to notify the PSNI about a change of address;

Failing to notify the PSNI about intended travel plans;

Failing to complete annual registration of his name, address and DOB.

At an earlier hearing, a police officer outlined how Carson is subject to both a Sexual Offences Prevention Order as well as the notification requirements of the sex offenders register for the rest of his life due to repeated convictions for making and possessing indecent images of children.

As part of those orders, Carson has to abide by certain conditions which include an obligation to tell the police of any travel plans, that he must tell police of any change of address within three days and he must also register his name, address and DOB on an annual basis.

The charges arose, she told the court, over alleged failures to comply with those obligations.

The court heard how police first became of potential breaches last October when, during a routine check, officers discovered that Carson was no longer residing at the property and that his tenancy had run out four months beforehand.

Checks established that Carson had not registered any new address and then, on 5 December last year, he failed to make his annual registration so was circulated as wanted for arrest.

Despite efforts police were not able to find him until he got off a flight from Lisbon on 8 March and he was duly arrested.

Ivan Carson outside court on an earlier occasion.

Emphasising that Carson had obviously just returned from Portugal when he disembarked, the officer told the court there had been no prior notification of Carsons plan to leave the UK.

She said the last notice of intended travel was on 6 June last year, when Carson told police he was going to France for three weeks but after his arrest, it transpired that he went to France last June and he has lived there ever since.

Carson claimed during police interviews that he told police at Bangor PSNI station but, the court heard, there is no record of any such indication.

In court, defence counsel Connor OKane conceded there was a case to answer, while Carson himself declined to comment on the charges or to call evidence on his own behalf.

Remanding the pensioner back into custody, District Judge Mark Hamill returned the case to Downpatrick Crown Court but he did not specify a date for the arraignment.
The accused have been custody since their arrest last November

Three Dublin men have been returned for trial in Sligo Circuit Court charged with organised crime offences having been sent forward from the District Court last Thursday.

The accused, who are related and include a father and son, have been remanded in continuing custody.

They first appeared before Sligo District Court in early December last year having been arrested at the end of November.

The three are Edward Connors (50) and his son Larry Connors (27), both of Bridgeview, Cloverhill Road, Clondalkin, and Edward Connors (28), of Drumkerring Park, Fettercairn, Tallaght.

Garda Kieran Langan of Sligo Garda Station served books of evidence on the accused before the court sitting last Thursday.

Sgt Derek Butler told the court the Director of Public Prosecution consented for the accused to be sent forward for trial to Sligo Circuit Court.

Mr Gerard McGovern, solicitor, of McGovern Walsh Solicitors appeared for Edward Connors Senior and Larry Connors.

Mr Mark Mullaney, solicitor, appeared for Edward Connors Junior.

Legal aid with one junior and one senior counsel was granted for all three defendants.

Edward Connors senior faces a total of nine charges.

Larry Connors faces six charges, while Edward Connors Junior faces four.

They face four identical charges.

Larry Connors (27)

These are that on November 29 2024 at Cadamstown, Johnstown Bridge, Co Kildare, they did with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, participate in, or contribute to, activity intending to, or being reckless as to whether such participation or contribution could facilitate the commission of a serious offence by that criminal organisation, or any of his members, to wit, burglary, by having in their possession, gloves, torches, a pry bar, a heavy duty axe, screwdrivers, a signal interference device, a telescopic ladder, a vehicle refuelling kit, surface disinfectant and two sets of vehicle registration plates not matching the chassis number of the vehicle they were found in.

They are also charged at the same location and on the same date, with handling stolen property, to wit, two sets of gold and diamond stud earrings, stolen during the course of a burglary at a residential property at Meelick East, Tuam, Co Galway on the 28th of November 2024.

They are also charged that on the 29th of November 2024 at Cadamstown, Johnstown Bridge, Co Kildare they handled stolen property, to wit, a gold bracelet, gold chain and a ring, stolen during the course of a burglary at a residential property at Roslahan, Manulla, Co Mayo on the 29th of November 2024.

They are also charged that on the 29th of November 2024 at Cadamstown, Johnstown Bridge, they had in their possession an article, to wit, gloves, torches, pry bar, pliers, heavy duty axe, screwsdrivers, a signal interference device, telescopic ladder, a vehicle refuelling kit, surface disinfectant and two sets of vehicle registration plates not matching the chassis number of the vehicle that was stopped, with the intention that it would be used, in the course of, or in connection with burglary.

Edward Connors (50)

Edward Connors senior is charged that on April 22 2023, at McDermotts Bar & Restaurant, Castlebaldwin, Co Sligo, he did commit a serious offence for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with, a criminal organisation, to wit, entering a building as a trespasser and committing an arrestable offence, to wit, theft.

He is charged that on the same date and at the same location, having entered McDermotts Bar & Restaurant as a trespasser, he did commit an arrestable offence, to wit, theft.

He is also charged that on August 9 2024 at The Hideout Bar, Monard, Co Tipperary , he did commit a serious offence for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with, a criminal organisation, to wit, entering a building known as The Hideout Bar as a trespasser and committing an arrestable offence, to wit, theft.

He is also charged on the same date and at the same location having entered The Hideout Bar as a trespasser he did commit an arrestable offence, to wit, theft.

He is charged that on November 16 2024 at Portaghard, Frenchpark, Co Roscommon, he did without lawful excuse damage property, to wit, a Peugeot Partner van.

Larry Connors is charged that on the 29th of November 2024, at Lisseenanmaragh, Dysart, Co Roscommon, he did commit a serious offence for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with, a criminal organisation, to wit, entering a building known as the home of Eoin Carty as a trespasser and committing an arrestable offence, to wit, theft.

He is also charged on the same date and at the same location having entered the building as a trespasser he did commit an arrestable offence, to wit, theft. All three defendants were sent forward for trial to the Circuit Court by Judge Sandra Murphy.

They then subsequently appeared before Judge Ronan Munro at the Circuit Court sitting at Sligo Courthouse.

Judge Munro remanded the accused in custody to appear before the court again on November 25.
A member of the public spotted Hamiltons car driving erratically and they followed as the Renault Clio clipped the kerb

A Co. Down woman who was behind the wheel of a car when she was three times the drink drive limit has narrowly escaped going to jail.

Imposing a three-month prison sentence on Claira Hamilton at Newtownards Magistrates Court, District Judge Mark Hamill told the 54-year-old he would suspend it for two years.

He told the court thankfully she did not hit or hurt anyone and warned Hamilton if she had, this would have been in the Crown Court and you would be going to jail.

Hamilton, from Auster Park in Newtownards, had entered guilty pleas to driving with excess alcohol and without insurance on 29 May this year.

The court heard how a member of the public alerted police to a car driving erratically on the Portaferry Road and they followed as the Renault Clio clipped the kerb.

Drink driver Claira Hamilton

At one point, a prosecuting lawyer told the court, the Clio stopped and Hamilton got out but as she walked around the rear of the vehicle, she fell over.

The reporting person intervened and removed the keys from the ignition and the court heard that when police arrived, Hamilton gave a lower reading of 105, exactly three times the limit of 35.

Police inquiries also established there was no insurance covering the Clio, the lawyer added.

In addition to the suspended sentence, Judge Hamill imposed a two-year driving ban and a 75 fine, warning Hamilton do this again and you will go to prison.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae strongly criticised people using their phones at tragic scenes

The community of Kenmare is outraged over the increasing number of dark tourists visiting murder victim Mike Gaines farm.

In fact, its become such a problem that gardai have been forced to deploy traffic cones to prevent people stopping to take pictures, selfies and videos.

They have also warned trespassers not to enter the farm.

Minister Michael Healy-Rae said it is deeply upsetting for the community and the friends and family of Mr Gaine, who was murdered, before his remains were dismembered and put in the slurry tank.

Mike Gaine's farm just outside Kenmare

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

This is not the Cliffs of Moher or the Lakes of Killarney, it is the scene of a death and a crime and a tragedy, he said.

Use your brain before your phone. God gave you a brain before a phone, said the local TD.

He said such behaviour has become widespread with people filming tragedies like car crashes and drownings as they happen.

People call this their content but somebody could be dead.

"It is so wrong.

He cited the example of the filming of a man that drowned in Cork as one such example of such behaviour. The actions at this tragedy have been widely condemned.

"The emergency services were trying to deal with the drowning and a crowd gathered and took out their stupid phones to put it online.

Gardai are continuing their investigations into the brutal death of Mr Gaine and this week said they are now seeking two weapons.

Sources said they are seeking two bladed implements, one which appears to have a serrated edge.

Gardai remain at the farm outside Kenmare and are expected to remain there until the end of the month.
The Midlands man (64) had been arrested alongside his son

Guns seized by Ecuadorian police as part of the drugs bust involving two Irishmen

An Irishman has died in Ecuador, where he was being held in prison following a 600,000 cocaine smuggling bust.

The 64-year-old and his son, who are from the midlands, were arrested earlier this month at Guayaquil Airport and allegedly found in possession of 15kg of cocaine that was being transported to Madrid.

Authorities said they also seized two firearms, more than 50 rounds of ammunition, cash and four mobile phones, as well as GPS devices.

The Irishmen were brought before an investigating magistrate and remanded in custody, with officials specifying that this was in relation to the trafficking of illicit substances.

The Sunday World has learnt that the father died in hospital days after his arrest, having taken ill in his cell.

Stock image

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

Officials have not yet disclosed the nature of his death, but it is understood he suffered a heart attack on August 6.

The Irish Government is providing assistance to the family of the deceased, while it is understood his son, who is aged in his early 20s, remains in the Ecuadorian prison.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.

As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of individual cases, it added.

Efforts are ongoing to repatriate the deceased man to Ireland from Guayaquil, a large port city located on Ecuadors west coast.

Guns seized by Ecuadorian police as part of the drugs bust involving two Irishmen

The countrys interior ministry announced details of the arrest earlier this month, saying the men were detained on August 1 for allegedly trafficking illicit controlled substances.

The ministry also published pictures of the drugs operation, showing pixellated images of the two men surrounded by Ecuadorian police.

It also showed pictures of the cocaine blocks, a digital weighing scale, a revolver, a handgun and ammunition.

The interior ministry said the national directorate of anti-drug investigations, in co-ordinated work with other units, conducted an anti-narcotics inspection in which they detected suitcases containing 15 packages of controlled substances bound for Madrid.

Ecuadors Policia Nacional said it prevented the shipment of 15 drug packages to Madrid valued at approximately $700,000 [600,000].

During a controlled operation carried out in Guayaquil, police personnel apprehended two foreign citizens who were transporting 15 blocks contained 14,730 grams of cocaine hidden in their luggage, the police said.

With this action, the commercialisation of approximately 147,300 doses of drugs was prevented.

It added that the estimated value of the cocaine on the European market was $688,627.50.

Ecuador has become one of the largest exporters of cocaine to Europe in recent years, despite not growing the illicit drug.

Drugs are normally trafficked in from neighbouring Colombia or Brazil, before being moved onwards to transit hubs in Europe.

The use of drug mules has also become less common, with criminal gangs focusing on shipping multi-tonne shipments across the Atlantic.

In 2024, Spain reported its largest ever seizure of cocaine (13 tonnes) in a single shipment, concealed in bananas originating from Guayaquil.
According to the reports, investigators have not ruled out homicide or death due to natural causes

A US drugs task force is investigating the death of Irish swimsuit designer Martha Nolan-OSlatarra on a boat docked at the Montauk Yacht Cub, it has been reported.

The Suffolk County's interagency East End Drug Task Force is investigating whether drugs may have played a role in the death of the 33year-old, according to local media.

The Long Island-based news outlet, Newsday, has reported that the investigation, which draws the first public link between drugs and Nolan-OSlatarra's death is moving forward on dual tracks.

However, the outlet also states that, according to one source, investigators have not ruled out homicide or death due to natural causes.

"Until you start ruling stuff out, everything is in play," a law enforcement source told the outlet.

The Suffolk County District Attorneys East End Drug Task Force involves various law enforcement agencies inclining DA Investigators, the East Hampton Town Police Department, the Suffolk County Police Department and New York State Police.

Suffolk police said last week that an autopsy conducted on the body who was found dead on the 32-foot pleasure boat Ripple on August 5 showed no evidence of violence.

Suffolk police said yesterday that there was no update to the investigation and that the cause of death is still pending.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that the Ripple where her body was found is owned by Christopher P Durnan (60) of Long Beach described as widower with two young adult children.

Martha Nolan-OSlatarra

The dad-of-two is believed to split his time between a five-bed, $6million mansion in Long Beach, New York, and an equally plush residence in Lantana, near Palm Beach, Florida.

Durnan, referred to a familiar figure at the club, also owns the Durnan Group in Rockville Centre, which manages the largest, most successful Workers Compensation Safety Group for Real Estate on the companys website.

Sources have told other media outlets that Nolan-OSlatarra headed to the Montauk Yacht Club on the evening of August 4 for a business meeting with Durnan.

Described as a guitar-playing widower linked to several boats named after Grateful Dead songs reportedly invested more than $200,000 in her bikini boutique.

One good Samaritan told The Post they were woken by a man running down the dock screaming, Do something!

Eye witnesses who went to her aid dialled 911 as they tried to revive her.

But she was declared dead at the scene on August 5.

Nolan-OSlatarra who was originally from Carlow, had finalised her uncontested divorce from her husband, Sam Ryan, in April.

New York State court records show the couple were married in Utah in 2020.

Ms Nolan-O'Slatarra founded her own fashion brand East x East

Martha's current boyfriend, who the Daily Mail identified as 34-year-old sales exec Nicholas DiRubio, was out of town when the tragedy unfolded.

The Irish Independent understands she had spoken to her boyfriend in the hours before she died, telling him she was going to book an Uber and would be home around 1am.

Her remains are currently in the custody of the Suffolk County Medical Examiners Office as her family await news on when they will be released for repatriation home to Ireland.

The businesswoman moved to New York from Ireland around 10 years ago and launched a series of pop-up boutiques in the Hamptons featuring her line of swimwear and sunglasses.

In her death notice, Ms Nolan-OSlatarras family described her as a beloved daughter of Elma, much-loved sister of Jacqui, treasured granddaughter of Betty and Liam, cherished niece of John, Michelle, Barry and Mona and adored partner of Nick.

"She will be sadly missed by her loving mother and her mother's partner Patrick, sister, aunts, uncles, partner, her father Seamus, grandparents, extended family, relatives and her large circle of friends in Ireland and the US, her death notice said.

May Marthas gentle soul rest in peace.

The family confirmed that the funeral arrangements for Ms Nolan-OSlatarra will be published later in the week.

Speaking to the Sunday World on Wednesday, her mother, Elma, expressed her anguish over her daughters death.

I feel numb and in shock, she said. My younger daughter, Jacqui, arrived in on Tuesday night and she was crying and shaking, she said.

"She said, I have terrible news, Marthas dead, she added.
It has been claimed that Connelly was leaving the bar when she pushed Baker twice, causing him to fall off the barstool

A woman who pushed a man off a stool at an Irish pub into US was heard saying, "good" when she was told he was dead, it has been claimed.

Maria M Connelly (41) turned herself into the Syracuse Police Department said on Monday, accompanied by her attorney.

She has been charged with manslaughter in the second degree in connection to the death of Lawrence Baker (68) at Guilfoil's Irish Pub on Burnet Avenue.

Guilfoil's Irish Pub on Burnet Avenue (Google Maps)

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

A CID Homicide Unit investigation that determined that Baker and Connelly had got into a fight at the bar interviewed numerous people and identified Connelly as the suspect.

It has been reported that Syracuse Police Officers arrived at Guilfoil's Irish Pub on May 31 at around 12.30am following reports that a man had fallen out of his chair.

He was taken to Upstate University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

It has been claimed that Connelly who is currently being held at the Onondaga County Justice Center pending arraignment was leaving the bar when she pushed Baker twice, causing him to fall off the barstool.

The complaint said both pushes were "completely unprovoked".

Connelly then kicked Baker when he was on the ground, the complaint alleged and was heard saying, "good" when she was told that he may be dead.
Pte Rooney was killed while serving in Lebanon when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon.

Prosecutors in Lebanon have formally lodged an appeal against the sentences handed down to those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney.

Tanaiste Simon Harris, who wrote to the Lebanese government last month to express the disappointment of the Irish government and the Rooney family in the leniency of the sentences, has said a new military chief prosecutor has been appointed in Lebanon and will take over the case.

Pte Rooney (24), from Newtowncunningham, Co Donegal, was killed while serving in Lebanon when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force was ambushed and fired upon on December 14, 2022.

The shooting, near the town of Al-Aqbiya in the south of Lebanon, a stronghold of militant group Hezbollah, resulted in the death of Pte Rooney while Trooper Shane Kearney (22) was badly wounded.

Private Sean Rooney was killed while serving with a UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon (Defence Forces/PA)

News in 90 Seconds - August 13th

A military tribunal in Beirut convicted one main defendant, Mohammad Ayyad, for the murder of Pte Rooney and has sentenced him to death, but he is still currently at large.

A number of other men received lesser sentences in relation to the incident.

An appeal against the sentences was lodged this afternoon with the military Cassation Court, with Mr Harris saying the Lebanese authorities have committed to taking urgent steps to ensure the individual convicted of the murder of Private Rooney is taken into custody.

Mr Harris said he met with Pte Rooneys mother, Natasha, who had criticised Mr Harriss engagement with the family on the matter, this afternoon and informed her of the developments in the aftermath of talks with the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers.

He welcomed the confirmation that an appeal has been formally lodged against the sentences handed down for the murder of Pte Rooney and the attacks on Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan and Trooper Nathan Bryan in the same incident, which he described as simply not acceptable and very disappointing.

I have this afternoon spoken with Seans mother, Natasha, who I was pleased also to meet last week, he added.

I informed her of todays developments and have committed to following up directly with the Lebanese Government in relation to the appeal itself.

In my calls with my Lebanese counterparts, I made it clear that the sentences handed down in this case are simply not acceptable and are very disappointing.

They have caused great upset and insult to the Rooney family and everything must be done to ensure justice is served for Sean and his colleagues who were injured.
The changes were confirmed on Friday.

Most of Oropi shifts to the Rotorua electorate.

Te Puna, Minden, Wairoa, Lower Kaimai, Tauriko West and more of The Lakes and Pyes Pa will be in the Tauranga electorate, while the Mount Maunganui electorate also includes Papamoa, Welcome Bay, Hairini, Maungatapu, Ohauiti, Waimapu and Poike.

Major changes to Tauranga, Bay of Plenty and Rotorua electorate boundaries for the 2026 election mean the Tauranga electorate shifts west, while the Bay of Plenty electorate will now include Mount Maunganui and be renamed the Mount Maunganui electorate.

Oropi becoming part of the Rotorua electorate has made one local voter a bit upset, while Lower Kaimai moving to the Tauranga electorate has been labelled a big win by another voter.

Forty-nine general and three Maori electorate boundaries were adjusted nationally.

Belk Rd resident Molly Powell said the decision to move the Lower Kaimai into the Tauranga electorate, not Rotorua as originally proposed, was a big win for the people.

She said more than 20 people made written submissions, and common sense had prevailed.

Nobody in this area was happy to be part of the Rotorua electorate. Its a credit to the Representation Commission that took note of our local knowledge of the area.

Longstanding Oropi resident Richard Somerfield said he was a bit upset to learn he would live in the Rotorua electorate at the next election.

Over the years, weve had Tony Ryall, Todd Muller and more recently Tom Rutherford as our MPs, and now well all have to get used to working with another MP from Rotorua.

Its a long way to drive to Rotorua, and its not somewhere Ive regularly visited over the years.

Somerfield said he believed this boundary change would be temporary and the Western Bay of Plenty district population could argue a case for its own electorate.

Mount Maunganui Ratepayers, Residents and Retailers Association president Michael O'Neill. Photo / Alex Cairns

Mount Maunganui Ratepayers, Residents and Retailers Association president Michael ONeill said the shift and name change made perfect sense.

Its appropriate as Mount Maunganui is a prominent part of the Bay of Plenty and quite iconic. I think its the jewel in the crown of the Bay of Plenty, and thats already been acknowledged.

And lots of people already say they are heading to Mount Maunganui when they visit our city.

Rotorua MP Todd McClay. Photo / NZME

Rotorua MP Todd McClay said the extension of the current boundary around Oropi was similar to the change more than a decade ago.

I hold meetings in the area, as recently as a month or so ago, and will work with the Mount Maunganui and Tauranga electorate offices to make sure our local residents continue to be well-served.

This is a beautiful part of the Bay of Plenty. I feel extremely privileged to be able to be their MP when the changes are made.

I pledge to work hard for them and all other parts of the electorate equally.

Kaimai ward councillor Don Thwaites. Photo / Alex Cairns

Western Bay of Plenty District councillor Don Thwaites said at a meeting last week some Te Puna residents expressed frustrations with another boundary change.

But, personally, I dont have an issue with being in the Tauranga electorate. 

The Kaimai ward councillor currently represents Te Puna and Kaimai communities.

He said this was the fourth electorate boundary change since he moved to the area 50 years ago, and it would likely change again in 10 to 20 years, with the Western Bay of Plenty getting its own electorate.

Kaimai ward councillor Margaret Murray-Benge said it wasnt the electorate boundaries that mattered, but who the elected MPs were.

Im sure that our three hardworking MPs, Sam Uffindell, Tom Rutherford and Todd McClay, will continue to work well together to achieve the best results for our communities.

Uffindell said he was excited at the opportunity to represent the new areas of his electorate.

The good people of Te Puna, Minden, The Lakes and all other new parts of the Tauranga electorate should know I will stand up for them. I cant wait to get to know these new communities better.

In a Facebook post, Rutherford said he would continue working hard for all the communities across the entire electorate.

Theres still so much work to do together, and Im 100% committed to giving my all for our community.

Representation Commission chair Judge Kevin Kelly said the relatively major changes to the three electorates around Tauranga city were to address the under-populated Rotorua electorate.

Sandra Conchie is a senior journalist at the Bay of Plenty Times and Rotorua Daily Post who has been a journalist for 24 years. She mainly covers police, court and other justice stories, as well as general news. She has been a Canon Media Awards regional/community reporter of the year.
Wrong business, wrong place.

That was the catchcry of a roadside protest opposing an industrial park in a rural Western Bay of Plenty community yesterday morning.

About 30 people gathered on the corner of State Highway 2 and Te Puna Rd during rush hour to raise awareness around the Te Puna Business Park development.

Many passing drivers gave the protesters a honk.

Resource consents were granted for the industrial park by an independent commission in July.

Te Puna Industrial Ltd bought 12ha of industrial-zoned land at 297 Te Puna Station Rd for $4.7 million in 2021 and applied for consents from the Western Bay of Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional councils in 2022.

Plans for the site included refrigeration, engineering and workshop activities including container washing.

Te Puna Industrial Ltd is half-owned by shipping container company ContainerCo, which would hold a small supply of up to 300 containers at the site.

Te Puna Industrial Ltd denied it would be a container terminal, as protest signs claimed.

Te Puna residents have been rallying against the development since 2021, as they say the culturally significant, flood-prone wetland is an inappropriate place for the operation.

Protest organiser Brooke Mullooly said the wider community needed to know the project had been consented.

We as a community actually need to stand up and show that we dont want it here.



Brooke Mullooly organised the protest against the Te Puna industrial park to make the wider community aware of the issue. Photo / Alisha Evans

Mullooly and others were worried about the safety of children, pedestrians and cyclists using Te Puna Rd with the increased traffic from trucks accessing the site.

She feared the road wouldnt cope with the extra traffic.

Mullooly lives in Minden, on the other side of Te Puna, but drives into Te Puna daily to check on the stock she farms there.

The trip could take up to an hour at 6.30am because of traffic and this would only get worse, she said.

Another two protests were planned for August 21 and 26.

Doug and Leslie Kirk live on Armstrong Rd and shared the concerns about traffic and safety.

Leslie said Te Puna Rd was a rural road and not fit for trucks.

Dougs family had lived in the area since 1872. He said he wasnt against a container terminal but believed the propsed site was the wrong place for it.

The development would have no benefit to the community, Doug said.



Doug and Leslie Kirk say the Te Puna industrial park won't benefit the community. Photo / Alisha Evans

All the current businesses in Te Puna added to its amenity, he said.

This [industrial park] will drive a knife through all the developments and the benefits that are already here.

Pirirakau kaumatua Neville Bidois said the land in the Te Hakao valley where the development will be was a wetland where his people gathered food, materials for clothing and stored their taonga.

The Pukewhanake Pa at the headland was occupied by Pirirakau and was also a meeting place for iwi, he said.

The area was wahi tapu (sacred) and there were a lot of archaeological sites throughout the valley, Bidois said.

In the 1940s, extensive earthworks occurred in the valley and Minden Stream was diverted to creat pastoral land, draining the wetland that meets the Wairoa River.

Youve got European colonisation, were just getting over that. And what happens now? Youve got corporate colonisation.

ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris previously told Local Democracy Reporting the business planned to build very low-intensity, specialised businesses at Te Puna Business Park.



ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris. Photo / Supplied

Harris said they would be establishing community and mana whenua liaison groups.

This is a facility that will fit into the community and be good for the region.

Te Puna Industrial Ltd had no intention of building a container terminal or a container park of any scale, he said.

The consent process was very thorough and rigorous.

The traffic plans were carefully considered by experts and if people were concerned, they could call the company, he said.

If traffic causes a problem, people should talk to us and we will listen carefully and adjust plans as required.

Once fully developed, the site would generate 774 vehicle movements per day, with a peak of 125 vehicles an hour, according to the commissions decision report.

Harris said work would begin at the site in October with landscaping and supporting infrastructure, as well as wetland restoration.

Local Democracy Reporting attempted to reach Harris for further comment.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
SUR in English Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 16:58 Share

A former Royal Gibraltar Police officer has been convicted at the Supreme Court for offences under the Data Protection Act 2004, receiving a 1,000 fine for unlawfully retaining and disclosing personal data.

The 38-year-old defendant, identified as A.B., was found guilty on two counts relating to sensitive police information he received in November 2022. A third charge of unlawfully retaining personal data was withdrawn by the Crown yesterday.

The case originated when A.B., who had previously served as a Police Constable with the Royal Gibraltar Police, received two photographs containing sensitive police information through a mobile messaging application. The images were sent by R.M., a serving Royal Gibraltar Police officer who unlawfully accessed police systems to photograph and share the confidential data.

Both men were charged in November 2024 and appeared before the Magistrates' Court. While R.M. pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawful obtaining of personal data and was fined, A.B. pleaded not guilty and elected trial by Supreme Court. The trial concluded this week with his conviction.

Commissioner Owain Richards emphasised the severity of the breach, stating: "Police officers and staff routinely have access to personal and sensitive information, and it is both a public expectation and a legal requirement that such information will be treated in the strictest confidence."

He warned that accessing confidential police information without legitimate purpose constitutes "an abuse of position," adding: "Trust and confidence in police officers and staff is essential, therefore, any member of staff who fails to uphold the high values and standards we expect in policing will be dealt with robustly."

The Commissioner said the convictions send "a clear message from the judiciary about the expectations it has about the accessing and handling of personal and sensitive data, particularly information held within police systems."
Eugenio Cabezas Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 10:02 Share

After years of complaints and protests from residents, Velez-Malaga town hall on the eastern Costa del Sol has announced it will allocate more than 1.2 million euros to various improvements in several of the residential areas of the coastal village of Benajarafe. The town hall will undertake work on lighting, sanitation and asphalting in Las Biznagas, La Esperanza, Paraiso del Sol, Condemar and Avenida Andalucia.

Mayor of Velez-Malaga, Jesus Lupianez, accompanied by the councillor for Infrastructure, Jesus Maria Claros, held a meeting with residents of the La Sirena residential area to inform them of the start of work to modernise the electrical installation in the area, which is already being carried out by Endesa.

This is a priority for residents, who had expressed in various meetings the urgent need for a definitive solution to the continuous power cuts they had been suffering.

"We are not going to stop. Benajarafe has many needs that have accumulated over the years, and we are determined to turn them into good news, said Lupianez.

During his visit the mayor announced that "the tender for the work to be carried out in the Las Biznagas residential area will be published in the next few days" with an initial budget of just over one million euros. The project includes paving, asphalting, renovation of street lighting, clearing, signage, manholes, railings, green areas and even the installation of a new electrical transformer station.

In addition, the old N-340 coastal road which passes through Benajarafe is currently being upgraded, with the renewal of road markings and various road painting jobs, contributing to improving safety and visibility on one of the main roads in the western coastal area of Velez-Malaga.
Malaga mayor Paco de la Torre has finally fulfilled the promise he made in September last year when he indicated that there would be a "global moratorium" on tourist housing. On Wednesday, 13 August, the mayor presented a new measure that will ban the registration of new single tourist dwellings (VUT) in the next three years, until the modification of the general urban development plan (PGOU) is finalised.

At present, there are 12,754 units registered in Malaga, "but only 8,596 are marketed". On Thursday, Malaga city council will approve the start of the procedure for the modification of the PGOU, which will be accompanied by a three-year moratorium on tourist housing, as a precautionary measure. For the moratorium to come into force legally in Malaga, however, it will have to wait until it is published in the official provincial gazette (BOP), which is expected no earlier than next week.

As De la Torre explained, in principle, VUT registrations will be suspended for three years, during which time work will be done with the sector and the tourist, residential and other associations to regulate the tourist and residential uses of housing in order to adapt to the current context. If this process is completed before the three years are up, the moratorium could expire sooner, but it does not seem that the process will be very quick, as the general guidelines for the modification of the PGOU have not even been drawn up.

What is the current situation with tourist flats?

De la Torre said that licences for any flats that do not have independent access and supplies are already being turned down. In addition, he highlighted that the urban planning department had already created a list of 43 saturated areas in Malaga where new tourist dwelling registrations could not take place. This number has gone from 43 to 53, given that the number of flats registered for tourist use exceeds 8% of the total in all of them. Another 29 neighbourhoods are close to 8%.

De la Torre, who once again emphasised his support of a tourist tax, which would help residents in greatest need when renting housing, this time directed his comment at the regional government, saying it could also take the form of a tourist fee. The mayor gave the Balearic Islands and Catalonia as an example - regions where the tourist tax is already in operation.

De la Torre also criticised the government's housing law, stating that, as it does not have sufficient legal guarantees for owners, it causes them to register their properties as tourist dwellings.
Pilar Martinez Malaga Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 17:29 Share

July kicked off at Malaga Airport with some days witnessing over 600 landings and take-offs, totalling 1,798 operations at the start of the first rush of summer trade, making it the fastest-growing airport in the country's top 10 during this period.

Aena data highlights that July ended with record-breaking passenger numbers and flight operations. More than 2.8 million passengers passed through, that is almost 8% more, plus 19,814 flights in or out, up 7.7%. As a result, this marks July as the busiest month on record, both in number of passengers and volume of flights.

To gain some idea of the strength of Malaga Airport on the Spanish travel market, it is enough to note that it more than doubles the average growth of the entire network of this public company, Aena, that manages most of Spain's major airports.

Malaga Airport also contrasts heavily with the performance of similar airports across Spain - for instance, Madrid-Barajas (0.6% growth), El Prat in Barcelona with an increase of 2.9% and Palma de Mallorca, which failed to match July 2024 figures and is left with a slight decrease of 0.1%.

"This progression was due to the dynamism shown by both domestic and international traffic, both with significant growth of 11.9% and 7.3% respectively," states Aena. Turning to the details, Aena also notes that the markets with the highest demand in absolute terms were the British market (676,296 passengers) and, somewhat further behind, the German market (204,219), the Netherlands (162,377), France (160,610), Ireland (139,482) and Italy with 135,882.

The busiest days just happened to fall on two different Sundays. On 13 July, when the airport broke its operations record by handling 689 movements in a single day, including arrivals and departures, while the peak number of daily passengers was reached on the 27th with 98,949 total passengers in one day, according to Aena.

If we look at the total for the first seven months of this year, Malaga Airport has gained 1.1 million more passengers compared to the same period last year. Specifically, according to Aena data, from January to July some 15.2 million passengers have passed through these airport facilities, a 7.8% increase. Also, 107,248 aircraft landed and took off on the runways, an 8.1% increase.

Aena notes that "last month saw an absolute record number of passengers at the following airports: Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, Malaga-Costa del Sol, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez, Valencia, Bilbao and Tenerife Norte-Ciudad de la Laguna."

Malaga is also among the airports with the highest number of flights ever. "In July, an all-time record number of operations was broken at ten airports: Josep Tarradellas Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga, Ibiza, Alicante, Tenerife Norte, Federico Garcia Lorca Granada-Jaen, Logrono, Ceuta Heliport and El Hierro Airport."

689 flights were recorded on Sunday 13 July, breaking the record for a single day's flights ops.

It is worth noting that, in July 2024, 2,659,167 passengers passed through these facilities, representing an increase of 9.3%. A total of 18,401 flights operated on Malaga's runways, an increase of 6.2%. These figures allowed the airport to complete the first seven months of the year with 14,153,622 passengers, a 13.2% increase and an increase of 9% in landings and take-offs, totalling 99,185.

Furthermore, the Costa del Sol airport recorded the best June on record and also the best half-year in its 106-year history. Six months in which it has gained one million passengers compared to the same period last year. Precisely 12,394,682 passengers passed through these facilities in the first half of the year, 7.8% more. A total of 87,434 aircraft took off and landed on the runways in the same period, an 8.2% increase, placing the Costa del Sol airport firmly in fourth place of the most important airports in Spain and also the fastest-growing of the four main ones. These figures "make this first half of the year the busiest in the history of this infrastructure", according to Aena.

A key factor in this record being set was the frenetic activity in June. The control tower personnel coordinated a daily average of 601 flight ops, a figure that demonstrated the dynamism of these facilities, with Aena handling 2.6 million passengers, an increase of 8.2%. A total of 18,045 flights were recorded on the runways, an increase of 8.2%. Of the total number of passengers last month, 427,219 travelled on flights to or from a Spanish city, an increase of 8.8%, while 2,201,927 opted for international connections, an increase of 8.1%.
Pilar Martinez Malaga Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 10:01 Share

The Irish low-cost airline Ryanair, which is the airline that handles most passengers at the Costa del Sol airport, has launched a promotion to facilitate the arrival of tourists to Malaga's annual fair, which it regards as one of "the most iconic celebrations in Spain". The company has announced that it will offer flights to Malaga city during the month of August from only 29.99 euros from 90 departure points to the Costa del Sol. Of these, 1 are connections from other locations in Spain and 79 are international.

The airline notes that "Malaga Feria 2025 will be held from 16 to 23 August and will once again be one of the great events of summer in Andalucia. This event, which commemorates the incorporation of the city to the crown of Castile in 1487, attracted nearly 900,000 visitors in its 2024 run, consolidating its role as a cultural and tourist hub in the region." Ryanair adds that: "with 790 routes from Spanish airports, Ryanair continues to democratise travel and provide affordable getaways to unforgettable destinations. As such, the airline continues to promote a light-travel model."

Ryanair mentions the transformation that Malaga city undergoes during these days of festivities. The feria is celebrated in two different settings: the historic quarter of the city centre, where the daytime activities are concentrated with a more traditional atmosphere, and then the Real del Cortijo de Torres, which hosts more than 200 shows, the typical, covered party spaces (casetas) open to the public with food, drink and music, and also the fairground attractions and concerts by renowned artists.
Tony Bryant Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 12:50 Share

Foreign residents in the Fuengirola area were saddened to learn of the death of Robert John Northcott, the former owner of the Manila Cafe, Los Boliches, who died peacefully at his home on Tuesday 5 August after a short illness. He will be fondly remembered for his warmth, humour and generosity, a larger than life character who turned the Manila Cafe into a welcoming hub for the local community.

Born in Newton Abbot, Devon, in 1945, Northcott grew up in Blackpool. He left school at 15 and spent two years working in various hotels in Blackpool in order to save enough money to go backpacking around Europe; his first stop was Spain.

He travelled extensively over the next two decades, but it was in the UK that he met his wife, Mei Lee. At the time, Northcott was a wines and spirits representative for Bulmers, but the couple dreamed of owning their own bar, although in a warmer climate.

The couple decided on Spain and moved to the Costa del Sol in the spring of 1983. They purchased the bar, located on the seafront promenade in Los Boliches, shortly after arriving and ran it together until they retired in 2007. During this period the bar became one of the most popular in the area, especially for the British, seeing as it had a reputation for serving an excellent English breakfast.

It was also popular among the many foreign groups and associations on this stretch of the Costa, hosting meetings and rehearsals for groups such as The American Club, The U3A and the Salon Varietes Theatre, among others.

A bright light has gone from our lives. He will be deeply missed by family, friends and the many whose lives he touched over the years, Mei Lee told SUR in English.

He is survived by his wife and two children - Drew and Lianne Lee May.
Jose Carlos Garcia Fuengirola Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 15:18 Share

Trade unions UGT, CCOO and CSIF have jointly accused Fuengirola's local government of "criminalising" the more than 800 civil servants by deciding to hire private detectives to monitor them during their sick leave. According to the specifications of the contract, the initiative is justified by the "high absenteeism" in the town - 10%, compared to the 7% national average.

All the unions agree that "absenteeism cannot be solved with detectives" and that social dialogue, collective agreement and regulations for the prevention of occupational hazards should be the way to deal with any similar problem. General secretary of the CCOO union in Malaga province Fernando Cubillo said that the town hall's approach is "what bad managers do". He said that the local government's rhetoric only serves to "set the public against all civil servants, both those on sick leave and those who are not".

CSIF: 'The measure is disproportionate and potentially damaging to workers' rights'

For CSIF, this is a measure "disproportionate and potentially harmful to workers' rights". The union has urged the town hall to comply with its "obligations in terms of occupational risk prevention", "respect medical competence" and adopt other measures, such as "requesting reports and collaboration from the prevention service and the mutual insurance company to determine the possible causes" of the situation, "improving the organisation of work, reviewing workloads and adopting preventive measures". In addition, the civil servants' union pointed out that the evaluation of jobs in the town hall is being negotiated, so it considers that this is "a clear measure of pressure that could even violate workers' rights".

Antonio Gonzalez from UGT also accused the local government of "entering a dangerous drift" and of "questioning the system" because sick leave is granted by doctors and there are "filters" such as medical inspections. "We criticise the use of public money for these purposes, when the system already has its own control mechanisms," he said.

Data opacity and the challenge of making it public

CSIF has sent a letter to Fuengirola town hall to defend "the medical criteria and the presumption of veracity of the reports of temporary incapacity", while warning that "the assignment of a situation of temporary incapacity corresponds exclusively to the doctor or medical team of the SAS, the mutual insurance companies or the INSS", depending on the contingency. But "neither the town hall nor any private entity contracted by the administration has the competence to question the medical assessment or to determine the situation of incapacity for work of a worker".

UGT accuses the town hall of hiding absenteeism data and CCOOO says the decision is consistent with 'bad management'

Gonzalez criticised "the total opacity" with which the government team acts by refusing to provide the unions with official statistic using "the excuse of data protection". Cubillo urged the town hall to make the data on absenteeism public "through the media and the transparency portal".

Health and accident rates

According to Cubillo, the town hall is "more concerned with discrediting the public sector" than defending it. He invited the Fuengirola leaders to stand up to the "deterioration, at historic levels" that the Andalusian public health system is experiencing, instead of being "accomplices" in this situation. "When the sick leave is due to a common illness, it is the public health system that intervenes. It takes more than a year to be given an appointment with a specialist and this leads to a deterioration in health," Cubillo said.

He also reminded the local government that, in March 2015, two workers from the operational services of the Fuengirola town hall died while working in the street, "without any prior assessment of occupational risks". According to the CCOO, 78% of the sick leave registered in the province is due to accidents or occupational diseases. "According to the latest data, there are 65 sick leaves a day for these reasons," Cubillo said.
Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 15:38 Share

The High Court of Justice of Galicia has upheld the decision of the social court of Vigo, ordering Carrefour to either reinstate a former worker or compensate him with 105,716.09 euros for an unfair dismissal following a receipt error.

On the day of his birthday back in 2023 - 4 October - the worker, who had been at the company since 1992, bought several types of cakes from the chain's bakery as a gesture to his colleagues and to celebrate the occasion. The cakes were put on trays around the shop before it opened so that the other workers could help themselves to them before the supermarket opened at 9am.

The total cost was 68.82 euros, but the employee at the bakery section charged him 10.23 euros. He paid without using his employee discount code. On 16 October, he paid the outstanding amount and sent an email informing of the payment and asking that the other worker is not punished for the "human error". According to the court resolution, that was not the first time that the company or employees had treated with food the staff outside the opening hours.

Although it seemed that the matter had been settled, the worker was dismissed on 14 November 2023 - the day when he requested from the company an extension of an adapted work schedule "for reasons related to eye health that recommended relative rest in situations of strain and visual fatigue". He was informed of the dismissal with a letter.

Unfair dismissal

The High Court of Justice of Galicia has confirmed that the dismissal of the worker was unjustified. According to the ruling, the incident was caused by a joint error, for which both the bakery employee and the complainant were guilty - the latter for his negligence. However, the worker did pay the difference as soon as he was aware of the mistake and his email demonstrated that he had had no "intention to defraud the company of money or pay less for the products consumed". The court concludes that the worker did not deserve the "sanction of dismissal" and that the company "has not been able to prove malice in his behaviour".
Alfonso Torices Madrid Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 10:44 Share

Spain is entering the eleventh consecutive day of the second official heatwave this summer. Extreme temperatures and parched bushes and groves have created serious conditions for the emergence and spread of wildfires. More than a dozen fires were active on Tuesday, having already burned thousands of hectares in six regions: Castilla y Leon, Castilla-La Mancha, Galicia, Andalucia, Madrid and Extremadura.

The spread of the flames, in many cases aided by strong winds, forced the confinement of residents in several towns and residential areas and the eviction of more than 9,500 residents in Leon, Zamora, Palencia, Orense, Madrid and Cadiz.

To date, the fires have directly or indirectly caused three deaths. Last week, a firefighter died in a traffic accident in Avila while on his way to help in the extinguishing of a fire. On Tuesday, a 50-year-old man who suffered burns to 98% of his body after getting trapped at the equestrian centre in Soto de Vinuelas, where he worked, died as a result of the Tres Cantos fire in the region of Madrid. On the same day, the fire in Nogarejas (Leon) claimed the life of a 35-year-old volunteer, who was working with a brush cutter on firefighting tasks.

In addition, more than a dozen people were injured, among them volunteers in Nogarejas (two); firefighters in Orense (four); residents of Abejera (Zamora) who were still in the village after it was evacuated (six). Most of them were treated for burns or smoke inhalation.

The increase in the number of fires, with more than 20 in the last week and more than 25,000 hectares devastated by the flames, led the Ministry of the Interior to declare the activation of a 'pre-emergency phase' to coordinate more effectively the deployment of resources to help the affected regions. An urgent meeting of the state coordination and management committee (Cecod), with the participation of the heads of the Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Ministry of the Defence, was also called.

The pre-emergency situation does not take away regional authority, but it does allow the government to reinforce coordination and mobilise resources of the general state administration in the face of one of the most serious waves of fires in recent years. State resources include aerial extinguishing and firefighting brigades, as well as a thousand troops and equipment from the military emergency unit (Ume).

Arrested arsonists

Meanwhile, 5,000 police and Guardia Civil officers are collaborating in extinguishing fires, controlling the roads in affected areas, evacuating people and arresting possible arsonists. Four people have been arrested as suspects of starting some of the fires in this latest wave of incidents. A man was arrested in Avila on Tuesday on suspicion of setting the Cuevas del Valle fire, which burnt 2,200 hectares. He had been temporarily working on firefighting tasks and it is believed that he had set the fire in order to be hired.

A 63-year-old woman was also arrested in Muxia (Coruna) on suspicion of starting five fires. The last two detainees are a 28-year-old man and another woman, both arrested in Orense. In addition, it is believed that the author of the fire in Canos de Meca (Cadiz) is a man hospitalised with burns to his hands.

The Royal Household has announced that King Felipe VI is in "permanent contact" with the government and receives all the latest information on the situation. He later spoke by telephone with the regional presidents of Castilla y Leon, Castilla-La Mancha and Andalucia to obtain as much information as possible about the fires ravaging these regions.

The flames are spreading throughout the western half of the peninsula, but two regions are the most affected - Castilla y Leon and Galicia. The former ended Tuesday with nine active forest fires and 6,500 evacuated residents. Most of the fires are concentrated in Leon, where the fire that devastated the natural site of Las Medulas was already 80% contained, and Zamora, where the two most serious fires are being fought, with eight villages evacuated and the flames out of control.

The most damaging is the Molezuelas de Carballeda fire, with 3,500 hectares destroyed and where the advance of the flames has forced the evacuation of more than 20 towns, including Congosta, Villageriz, Alcubillas de Nogales, Fuente Encalada, Carracedo and San Pedro de la Vina. The Puercas fire in the same province has spread, forcing the evacuation of Puercas and Ferreruela de Tabara. A third fire in Cervera de Pisuerga (Palencia) forced the evacuation of the Abadia de Lebanza and the confinement of El Campo and Lebanza.

The situation in Galicia 'is concerning' due to the wave of fires, with 'about 40 or 50 a day', possibily due to 'extremely high arson activity'

The second epicentre is Galicia, with 12 active fires, eight of them in the province of Orense. The fire in Chandrexa de Queixa is the largest in the province, with more than 5,100 hectares burned - more than the total surface area affected by fires throughout the entire 2024 in Galicia. It was precisely in this municipality that a new fire forced the confinement of a children's camp on Tuesday night, as some of the flames reached a little more than a hundred metres from the site. Fortunately, a line of containment was established.

Regional minister of rural affairs Maria Jose Gomez has confirmed that the situation in Galicia "is concerning" due to the wave of fires, with "about 40 or 50 a day", which she attributes to "extremely high arson activity".

Stabilisation in Tarifa

The situation in Tarifa (Cadiz), where the fire on Monday caused the evacuation of some 2,000 people from their houses and from hotels and beaches, was stabilised shortly before midnight on Tuesday. Regional minister of the presidency of the Junta Antonio Sanz said he had "well-founded suspicions" that the fire was intentional.

Another fire in Andalucia forced the evacuation of 250 people in the area of Los Romeros, in Jabugo (Huelva). The fire, which remains at emergency level 1, was caused by a lightning.

The fire in Navalmoralejo (Toledo) has already devastated some 3,250 hectares (2,500 in Caceres territory) and forced the closure of six local roads. The residents of Navalmoralejo, Jarilla, Villar de Plasencia and Cabezabellosa have been evacuated, while Villar de Pedroso has been confined, as there was also concern about the advance of another fire in the area between the Jerte and Ambroz Valleys.

Again in Toledo, the authorities were forced to raise emergency level 2 due to another fire that broke out on Tuesday afternoon near the town of Alberche del Caudillo.

At the gates of Madrid

Residential areas near Madrid city that were under a threat also had to be evacuated as a result of the Tres Cantos fire, which spread rapidly, covering six kilometres in 40 minutes until it devastated 1,500 hectares and burnt several houses, driven by strong gusts of wind of up to 70km/h. The fire, which also affected part of the San Sebastian de los Reyes municipality, was declared under control on Tuesday night, although not yet extinguished.

The fire damaged the elite private King's College and spread across grassland and scrubland close to business parks and residential areas. The smell of combustion reached practically the entire centre of Madrid.

Smoke from the fire that broke out shortly after 1.30pm on Tuesday on the outskirts of Orense, near the railway tracks between the provincial capital and the village of Taboadela, forced Spain's railway operator Renfe to suspend the high-speed AVE service for five hours.

Trains between Madrid and Galicia were able to run again in the area shortly after 9pm.Rail traffic between Orense and Santiago de Compostela was halted for more than four hours for the same reason. The fire had caused problems for train traffic in the same province the previous week. Another fire had suspended traffic between Avila and Madrid at the end of July.
Isabel Mendez Malaga Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 17:17 Share

The Spanish agency for food safety and nutrition (Aesan) has issued a warning to people with an allergy or intolerance to dairy products. The presence of milk has been detected in cream liqueurs made in Spain, without it being indicated on their labels.

It was the Galician health authorities that issued the warning concerning the Destileria Das Ideas beverages.

The data of the products involved is:

Name of the products: Coffee Cream, Rice Cream with Milk, Chocolate Cherry Cream, Liqueur Cream, Lollipop Cream, Lollipop Cream, Lemon Cream, Berry Cream, Strawberry Cloud Cream, Peach and Passion Fruit Cream.

Brand: Destileria Das Ideas

Product appearance: 70-cl bottles

Lot number: All that do not have a "contains milk derivatives" indication on the label or where this is incomplete or illegible

Unit volume: 70cl

Temperature: Ambient

The products have been marketed in the regions of Madrid, Navarre, Asturias, Catalonia, Castilla y Leon and Galicia, although redistribution to other regions has not been ruled out.

This information has been transmitted through the coordinated system for the rapid exchange of information (SCIRI), so that the withdrawal of the products in question can be verified.

People with an allergy or intolerance to dairy products who may have these drinks at home are advised not to consume them. There is no risk for the rest of the population.
Maluma performs on stage at Movistar Arena on April 04, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Javier Bragado/Redferns) Redferns

Maluma called out a fan for bringing their baby to his concert in Mexico City over the weekend.

In a video of the interaction, the Colombian rapper addressed the mother from the stage, asking in Spanish, With all due respect how old are they?

Maluma didnt seem pleased when he learned that the baby was only a year old.

Do you think its a good idea to bring a 1-year-old baby to a concert where the decibels are this f------ high? he asked, per a translation from Variety. Where is the sound this loud? That baby doesnt even know what its doing here.

He further told the woman: Next time, protect their ears or something. For real. Its heavy. Its your responsibility. Youre waving them around like theyre a toy. That baby doesnt want to be there, for real. Im telling you with all love and respect, now that Im a father would never bring them to a concert. For the next time, be a bit more aware."

Fans had mixed reactions in the videos comments section. One wrote, Good on Maluma for speaking up, protecting a childs safety should come first.

However, others didnt like how he publicly reprimanded the mother.

Ok this is extremely real and responsible of him to do but crazy because he embarrassed that parent on another level, wrote another.

A third added: Maluma can afford a babysitter, thats the difference.

The Corazon artist welcomed his first child, daughter Paris Londono Gomez, in March 2024 with his girlfriend Susana Gomez.

Last July, he spoke with Allure about becoming a first-time father, telling the outlet: Everything changed. And I love it. Now, I wake up every day with the desire to conquer the world. I know I have to f------ kill it.

He also explained that his daughters birth has motivated him to take better care of himself. I go to bed every night that I can at 9 and wake up at 5:30 to hit the gym because I want to be healthy. You want to live forever for your kids. I want to make her proud, he said.

Malumas Mexico City concert was part of the final leg of his +Pretty +Dirty World Tour, which ends on Aug. 16. The tour, which kicked off on Mar. 15 in Barcelona, Spain, was comprised of 21 shows. The final show will take place in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The federal government will try a second time to convict Doris Aleman-Bonilla, a woman from Honduras who was charged with an immigration-related felony after she was stopped for speeding in Oswego County.

A jury in July failed to reach consensus and Judge Elizabeth Coombe declared a mistrial in the first illegal re-entry case to go to trial in the Northern District of New York during President Donald Trumps second term.
Oswego, N.Y. - A 76-year-old swimmer was found dead in Lake Ontario in the town of Oswego on Tuesday night, deputies said.

Deputies were dispatched to the shore of Lake Ontario west of the SUNY Oswego Campus off Route 89 around 9:31 p.m. for a report of a man in the water, according to a news release from the Oswego County Sheriffs Office.

Around 10:20 p.m., the man was found in the water and pronounced dead.

The man was identified as Barratt A. Gorman, 76, of Oswego.

Gorman routinely swam in the area, according to deputies. He lived nearby on Route 89.

Gorman formerly worked for the New York Power Authority, retiring in 2004, according to online state pension records.

Staff writer Vince Gasparini covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach him at vgasparini@syracuse.com.
President Donald Trump is considering reclassifying marijuana as a less-dangerous drug, a move that would impact national drug policy.

The move would not legalize marijuana nationally, but it would ease regulations on the drug and potentially create tax savings for businesses licensed to sell marijuana, the Associated Press reported, as well as make it easier to do research on the drug.

Marijuana is currently considered a Schedule I drug; the Wall Street Journal reports that the administration is considering changing it to a Schedule III drug.

According to the DEA website, Schedule I drugs are ones that have no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Marijuana is currently in this classification along with heroin, ecstasy and LSD.

Schedule III drugs have a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence, according to the DEA, and include ketamine, anabolic steroids and testosterone.

Were looking at it. Some people like it, some people hate it, the president said in a press briefing shown on C-Span.

Well make a determination over the next few weeks, and that determination hopefully will be the right one. Its a very complicated subject, the subject of marijuana. Ive heard great things having to do with medical, and Ive heard bad things having to do with just about everything else.

Steps were taken toward reclassification of the drug last year under the Biden administration, but the process was not finished before Biden left office, The Hill reported.

Medical marijuana use is already legal in 40 states and the District of Columbia, and 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational marijuana for adults, according to the Associated Press.

A 2021 law signed by then Gov. Andrew Cuomo legalized recreational marijuana use by adults in New York state, although it took a while for the states cannabis industry to get off the ground.
Alex Gault, Watertown Daily Times, N.Y. (TNS)

Rep. Elise Stefanik is closing the polling gap with Gov. Kathy Hochul as she continues to weigh running for the job next year.

According to the latest Siena College Research Institute poll, released Tuesday, Hochul still does better than Stefanik in a one-on-one contest, but the 23-point gap between the two potential candidates recorded in June has shrunk to 14 percentage points. If the election were today and the only two options are Stefanik and Hochul, 45% of voters said they would pick Hochul and 31% said they would pick Stefanik.

The north country congresswoman, a Republican, has improved her name recognition among the New York voting base. Now, just about 59% of voters report having some opinion of her and 41% report no opinion or no familiarity with the congresswoman  compared to past polls that have shown she was known to less than 30% of the voting base across the state. Now, 27% of voters have a positive opinion of Stefanik and 32% have an unfavorable view of her. Stefanik does best among Upstate New York residents and Republicans, and worst with New York City residents and Democrats.

Hochul, a Democrat, is continuing a trend of middling favorability ratings: 42% of New York voters like her, 44% do not, and 14% dont know of her or have no clear opinion. Hochul does best with Democrats and New York City residents, and pulls a 37% favorable, 52% unfavorable rating from upstate residents. On job approval, Hochul does better with 53% of voters saying they approve of the work she has done as governor and 42% reporting they disapprove.

While the governor can trumpet her best job approval rating since March 2023, there is little doubt that Stefanik will highlight that more than a year out from a potential match-up, Hochuls lead over Stefanik is only 14 points, said SCRI pollster Steven Greenberg.

Hochul doesnt hit the magic 51% mark Greenberg continued. More than two-thirds of Democrats are with Hochul and three-quarters of Republicans are with Stefanik. Independents are closely divided, leaning towards Stefanik, after favoring Hochul in June.

Greenberg noted that while NYC voters are firmly with Hochul, downstate suburban voters have shifted their loyalties and now narrowly favor Stefanik. Upstate, voters before had given Hochul a 12 percentage point lead in previous polls, but now are roughly evenly divided.

Stefanik clearly has room to grow with voters, either positively or negatively. While 49% of voters say they are very or somewhat familiar with her, 46% are not very or not at all familiar with Stefanik, Greenberg said. Republicans think she has the right experience to be Governor, Democrats dont and independents are closely divided.

Stefanik took a victory lap over the poll results, sharing a link on social media to a news report about the poll.

The worst governor in America is losing independents, cratering support and in political free fall in the latest Siena polling, Stefanik said. We will continue to work hard to earn your support to Save NY.

Stefanik has not yet formally declared a campaign for the governors office, now 15 months away from the 2026 election. The last Republican to run for the seat, current EPA Administrator Lee M. Zeldin, had announced more than 16 months before the 2022 election where he came the closest to any Republican in a generation to winning the seat. Zeldin also had a four-way primary to contend with. Republicans have taken great efforts to avoid a primary for their pick this year, and the other potential nominees have since dropped out or stepped back since Stefanik started talking seriously about a run.

While voters are warming to Stefanik, theyre not happy about a bill she claimed to be the deciding vote to pass: the One Big Beautiful Bill that advanced a heap of Trump administration priorities including tax changes, spending cuts and a wide-ranging reorientation of the federal government.

According to the SCRI polls, a majority of voters in New York are concerned that the bill and the Medicaid cuts it enacts will hurt or close rural hospitals in New York. Those concerns, driven by reports and statements from hospitals saying that a reduction in Medicaid coverage will mean more unpaid work done in emergency rooms and intensive care units, reach a majority of Democrats, independents and Republicans alike, and every region of the state.

At least 63% of voters from every region of the state are concerned about closures, Greenberg said.

The bill includes language that will penalize New York and other states if they choose to continue to use their own state funds to offer emergency Medicaid coverage to immigrants, documented or undocumented. The penalty will cut the funds the federal government provides for Medicaid expansion to U.S. citizens, essentially cutting U.S. citizens off of their health care if their state opts to spend its own money to insure immigrants.

The SCRI poll asked voters if they approve of New York dedicating another $3 billion to Medicaid for illegal immigrants in the face of the federal penalties. Republicans and independents were opposed, and a plurality, rather than a majority, of Democrats approved. The issue is more evenly divided by age than party; voters younger than 35 broadly support providing health care to immigrants while a vast majority of voters older than 55 are opposed.

As a result of the bill and its Medicaid cuts, the state is reportedly coming in about $750 million short on revenue to meet expenses this year, and $3 billion next year. According to the SCRI poll, a majority of Republicans and independents support cutting services to close the gap, while a plurality of Democrats say the answer is to raise taxes.

With the state budget a long way away, neither side as yet made a convincing argument to voters on how to close any potential gap from federal funding cuts in the BBB, Greenberg said.

The SCRI poll also asked voters their take on a handful of policy proposals on the table in Albany and Washington, D.C. A vast majority support a proposal to require retail establishments and food sellers to take cash, reversing the push to cashless operations. Another proposal at the federal level to send funds to local police departments to provide child care options for officers has support from 60% of voters.

A majority, 60%, including a majority of Republicans, Democrats and independents, back a new state law now in effect that requires school districts implement a cellphone ban for students for the entire school day.

A majority of state voters approve of a state law that permits New York-based doctors to prescribe abortion medication to out-of-state residents, and provide only the patients name and the pharmacy on official documentation. The law is intended to protect state doctors from other state abortion bans that make it a crime for doctors to prescribe abortion drugs. While 54% of New York voters approve, including a majority of Democrats and a plurality of independents, a majority of Republicans are opposed to the law.

A plurality of voters, and a plurality Republicans, Democrats and independents approve of Hochuls recent announcement that the state is looking to build a gigawatt of new nuclear energy in upstate New York.

Voters are heavily split on the most recent policy out of Albany. Hochul and Democratic legislative leaders have floated an amendment to the state constitution that would weaken or destroy the Independent Redistricting Commission tasked with drawing the states legislative and congressional district lines once per decade. The amendment would allow state lawmakers to redraw the states congressional maps mid-decade, without a new federal census, if another state in the U.S. also does so.

The amendment comes as a response to efforts by the Republican party to gerrymander states like Texas to add reliable Republican districts and secure their majority, which many predict the Republicans will lose next year.

Last week, Hochul hosted a handful of Texas Democrats who fled their state in an attempt to block the redistricting legislation, and said shed be looking to put such an amendment on the table as soon as possible, which would be 2027 at the earliest.

Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., has hit his lowest ever favorability rating, tracking back to February of 2005, pulling in a 38% positive rating. For the first time in his political career, Schumer has lost the support of his native New York City, with 39% of voters reporting a negative outlook on him.

Sen. Kirsten E. Gillibrand, D-N.Y., is also pulling in negative ratings; just 36% of people report a positive outlook on the junior senator, compared to 38% who disapprove of her.

 2025 Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, N.Y.). Visit www.watertowndailytimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The more than 130-year-old Eastman Kodak Co. is cautioning on its business operations, but says it is confident it will be able to work out upcoming debt obligations.

Kodak has debt coming due within 12 months and does not have committed financing or available liquidity to meet such debt obligations if they were to become due in accordance with their current terms, the company wrote in a regulatory filing. These conditions raise substantial doubt about Kodaks ability to continue as a going concern.

The Rochester, New York-based company said that it had $155 million of cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, with $70 million held within the U.S.

Kodak said in a statement on Tuesday that the going concern language in its regulatory filing is essentially a required disclosure because its debt comes due within 12 months of the filing.

Kodak is confident it will be able to pay off a significant portion of its term loan well before it becomes due, and amend, extend or refinance our remaining debt and/or preferred stock obligations, the company said.

Last year Kodak said that it would end its retirement income plan in order to pay down debt, according to The Wall Street Journal. Kodak Chief Financial Officer David Bullwinkle said in a statement on Monday that the company expects to know by Friday how it will satisfy its obligations to pay all pension plan participants and foresees completing the reversion by December.

Founded by George Eastman in 1880, Eastman Kodak Co. is credited with popularizing photography at the start of the 20th century and was known all over the world for its Brownie and Instamatic cameras and its yellow-and-red film boxes. It was first brought down by Japanese competition and then an inability to keep pace with the shift from film to digital technology.

Kodak filed for bankruptcy protection in 2012 after struggling with increasing competition, continuing growth in digital photography and growing debt. The company wound up selling off many of its businesses and patents, while shutting down the camera manufacturing unit that first made it famous. It received approval for its plan to emerge from court oversight a year later. At the time, Kodak was looking to recreate itself as a new, much smaller company focused on commercial and packaging printing.

Kodak is now nearing completion on a manufacturing plant to create regulated pharmaceutical products. The company already makes unregulated key starting materials for pharmaceuticals. Production at the retrofitted facility is expected to start later this year.

Shares slid more than 25% in midday trading.
Albany, N.Y.  A man who fired a shotgun outside an upstate New York synagogue with dozens of children inside shortly after the start of the Israel-Hamas war was sentenced in federal court Tuesday to 10 years in prison.

Mufid Alkhader, 29, was arrested in December 2023 after firing two shots in the air and shouting Free Palestine! outside Temple Israel of Albany. No one was injured, but the incident terrified many of the 61 children attending preschool and the adult staffers who had to shelter in place.

My daughter was in Hebrew class with her teacher, whose own child was on the other side of the building, Rachel Mandel told the court. Her amazing teacher held, hid and comforted my child. She prepared herself and the children in her care to die as victims of hate.

The shots were fired hours before the first night of Hanukkah and two months after the surprise incursion by Hamas triggered the war. Federal prosecutors say Alkhader, whose gun jammed after the second shot, complained about events in the Middle East after his arrest.

Under a deal with prosecutors, Alkhader in February pleaded guilty to obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, brandishing a firearm during the commission of that offense and conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully.

Alkhader, wearing an orange jail shirt, told the court Tuesday he felt terrible about what he did and for scaring people.

I know I was not in my right mind, Alkhader said, asking for forgiveness.

Alkhaders public defender had argued for a more lenient sentence, citing his clients severe mental illness.

But Judge Anne Nardacci sided with prosecutors, who said Alkhader should face 10 years in prison after traumatizing the children and adults in the synagogue.

Prosecutor Richard Belliss said Alkhader wanted to scare the people in the building, and scare them he did.

Alkhader was born in a Palestinian refugee community near Baghdad and his family came to the U.S. as refugees in 2012, when he was 16. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen two years later and lived in nearby Schenectady at the time of the shooting.

Another man was sentenced last fall to 14 months in prison for making a straw purchase of the shotgun for Alkhader.
Brian Niemietz l New York Daily News (TNS)

A Texas businessman who runs a string of President Donald Trump-themed restaurants was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Trump Burger owner Roland Beainy entered the U.S. in 2019 as a non-immigrant and was allowed to remain in the country through February 2024. The 28-year-old from Lebanon was arrested in May and released on bond in June to face immigration proceedings, according to ICE officials.

Beainys eateries have no known ties to the president or The Trump Organization, though photos of the chains four operations posted online use the 79-year-old fast-food loving world leaders likeness.

Despite false claims to the contrary, Roland Mehrez Beainy does not have any immigration benefits that prevented his arrest or removal from the United States, ICE said in a statement sent to the Daily News.

The Trump administration has made restricting entry to the U.S. and deporting people who are in the country illegally a top priority since the 47th president took office in January.

Under the current administration, ICE is committed to restore integrity to our nations immigration system by holding all individuals accountable who illegally enter the country or overstay the terms of their admission, ICE said with regards to Beainys case. This is true regardless of what restaurant you own or political beliefs you might have.

Trump Burger has a rating of three out of five stars on Yelp!, where online activity was being monitored due to the sudden increase of media attention coming to that business page.

_________

2025 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
London, UK  July 31, 2025

The cryptocurrency market experienced a sharp sell-off over the last 24 hours, resulting in close to $1 billion in liquidations across futures and leveraged positions. Among the hardest hit were altcoins, with XRP falling approximately 2.5%, Dogecoin tumbling over 9%, and Solana down about 7%. These rapid price movements triggered significant margin calls, fueling the downward pressure .

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Originally published on ibtimes.com.au
Raymond Gonzales is President of the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Wendy Mitchell is President and CEO at Aurora Economic Development Council.
The Penrose Room at The Broadmoor hotel, 1 Lake Ave., has reopened and is offering dinner reservations. We got a sneak peek of the newly renovated dining room at a Meet the Maker dinner. Trey Zoeller was the featured master mixologist and is the co-founder of Jeffersons Bourbon with his father, Chet, a famed bourbon historian.

Not only did we enjoy our preview of The Penrose Room in all its new reimagined elegance, but we also learned about the creative experimental craftmanship behind Jeffersons bourbon, which was paired with the culinary craftmanship of Bethany Fahey, chef de cuisine of The Penrose Room.

During Faheys outstanding gourmet dinner, we also spotted longtime fine dining expert Joseph Freyre, who has been appointed general manager of The Penrose Room. Freyre is not a newcomer to The Broadmoor. Before branching out to open his own fine dining establishment, he had been at one time the maitre dhotel at The Penrose Room.

Zoeler kicked off the dinner with a brief introduction of the process he uses to create the amazing, flavored Jefferson whiskeys. He made it clear he is not a distiller; hes an experimenter. His mad scientist experimentation with whiskey has put the Jefferson brand among the top-rated bourbons. For instance, theres Jeffersons Ocean bourbon selections, which are small-batch brews that literally travel around the world on board ships to experience different climates and degrees of argentation before being bottled.

Its a unique bourbon that we launched in 2012, Zoeler said.

The opportunity to sample this rare whiskey was one of five we tasted with a three-course dinner prepared under the guidance of Fahey, who joined The Broadmoor culinary team in 2018 as the chef de cuisine of the main buildings kitchen. She received her culinary degree from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Atlanta, followed by working at notable resorts including The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort and the Macon Marriott City Center.

Dinner included a sampling of dishes from the new menu for The Penrose Room. At a cocktail reception, a couple of the canapes included crispy lobster lollipops with lemon aioli and Muenster mac & cheese bites with truffle aioli. Each were a delicious pairing with sips of Jeffersons whiskey neat.

The second course of the dinner featured a stunning serving tower of the chefs curated sushi and raw bar. From the appetizer menu we marveled at the rich, creamy smoked Risotto Ai Frutti de Mare filled with Dungeness crab, Manila clams, Maine lobster and heirloom tomatoes topped with garlic breadcrumbs.

The entree was a picture-perfect, medium-rare beef Wellington, which was reminiscent of classic dishes of The Penrose Rooms days gone by, and was carved tableside. The certified Angus beef tenderloin was masterly baked medium rare with its covering of foraged mushroom and Bloomsdale spinach crepe. The Perigoundine sauce  a classic French sauce made with brown stock, Madeira wine, diced truffles and butter  further enhanced the delicious flavors of the beef and pastry. Fat, tender spears of asparagus garnished the dish.

Baked Alaska was the finishing touch to the luxurious dinner, which was another tribute to the storied history of The Penrose Room. The dessert, served gueridon style (tableside service), was flambeed by Feryre in the center of the dining room. It made for a showstopping moment.

Feryre will prepare some of The Penrose Rooms signature dishes tableside, from a special serving cart called a gueridon trolley. You can expect to be entertained by tableside preparations for items such as mixing and tossing Caesar salads, carving meat or preparation of pan sauces and the showy flambeing of dishes like the baked Alaskan.

The Penrose Room hours are 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Details: 855-421-4301, tinyurl.com/344uyk2e.

New Age speakeasy

Justin and Jacalyn Kaye, owners of 105 Social House, have moved their restaurant and bar from 75 Colorado 105 down the road to 11 Primrose St., Palmer Lake, which was formerly Journeys End restaurant and bar. The Kayes had been in the first location for seven years and have built a strong following of regulars.

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We are a modern speakeasy, Jacalyn said. Some of our regulars refer to us as having a speakeasy vibe, while we just operate old school. We do not have a phone and its a first-come, first-served restaurant. If there are more than six in a party, we ask that customers send us a message.

Be prepared when you drop in for a meal: Youll likely be on a wait list, but your reward is some terrific food. Justin does the culinary magic in the kitchen and Jacalyn is like the Energizer bunny running the bar, seating customers and clearing tables.

The mom-and-pop couple have more than 20 years in the restaurant industry and got their love of downhome delicious food from their moms good cooking.

We grew up in homes where we always had home cooked meals and treats, Jacalyn said. We rotate in at least two new menu items each weekend, and all the staples (fan favorites stay) including gnocchi/steak, salmon with crispy sushi rice, duck tacos, chicken fried steak and beet salad with warm fried goat cheese.

The menu is short and sweet. The evening we dined, there were four starters and small plates, four salads, six sandwiches/tacos, five entrees and five desserts.

We shared bacon-wrapped dates ($16 for four dates) stuffed with blue cheese and drizzled with maple balsamic syrup. They were served piping hot and were delicious with crispy, salty bacon and a contrasting flavor of sweet syrup. The salads are huge and offered as a whole or half priced size. For an upcharge you can make it a meal with chicken, salmon or steak. The wagyu brisket French dip sandwich ($18) was massive, loaded with shredded beef bulging out of the soft hoagie roll. The brisket was topped with roasted onions and melted provolone, ready for a dunk in the rich au jus. A flat iron steak ($25) was a perfectly cooked medium rare generous serving of beef garnished with pan sauce and served with garlic mashed potatoes and jumbo asparagus. The meal was totally satisfying, and we were almost too full for dessert, but we caved. And happy we did.

I make all of the desserts and try to rotate a new one in each week. This week, a lemon curd cheesecake with wild blueberry compote, Jacalyn said, as we waited for to-go boxes for our leftovers.

Although the menu clearly states the sweet dishes serve two, we ended up ordering three treats for our table of four. For $14 each we devoured bourbon bread pudding, Palisade peach crumble and banana cream pie. All were over-the-top delicious. No surprises  there were more leftovers of the hard to resist homemade goodies.

Hours are 4-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 1-9 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays. Visit facebook.com/105socialhouse.

Castle Rock foodie event

Taste of Douglas County by Mike Boyle, host of The Mike Boyle Restaurant Show, will be at the Douglas County Event Center, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock, 5-8 p.m. Aug. 21. There will be several Douglas County eateries from which to sample, like Viewhouse Restaurant, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Tailgate Tavern, My Neighbor Felix, Buffalo Wild Wings, Gelato & Co., Old North End Italian, Dickeys BBQ, Granellis Pizzeria, Freddys Steakburgers, Little Caesar Pizza, Black Eyed Pea, Playa Bowls and Cuba, Cuba. Visit tasteofdouglascounty.com for a complete list and tickets. Cost is $10 in advance or $20 at the door on the day of the event.

Hello Dubai

Not one to miss a chocolate lovers trend, the Melting Pot, 30 E. Pikes Peak Ave., is offering a limited-time Dubai Chocolate Fondue  a rich, velvety blend of milk and white chocolate, topped with silky pistachio cream, buttery toasted kadaifi and a generous sprinkle of crunchy pistachios. Dive into this chocolate treat through Sept. 14. Contact: 719-385-0300, tinyurl.com/mtukr4mz.
President Donald Trump's salute to a cadet is mirrored by two Air Force Academy cadets that received their diplomas at the academy's 61st commencement.
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Johnny Depp might be returning to the world of Pirates of the Caribbean, after once declaring that nothing on this earth could make him come back.

Franchise producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed he has spoken to the Captain Jack Sparrow actor about a role in the sixth film. which is currently being written.

Bruckheimer said he thinks [Depp] would do it despite the actor ruling himself out of the sequel during his legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard.

If he likes the way the parts written, I think he would do it, Bruckheimer told EW.

Its all about whats on the page, as we all know. We are still working on a screenplay. We want to make it. Weve just got to get the right screenplay. We havent quite gotten there yet, but were close.

News of a reboot was first announced in 2019. One year later, Depp became embroiled in a defamation case against The Sun over a 2018 article that called him a wife beater, which he ultimately lost.

In 2022, Depp sued Heard in Virginia court for defamation, claiming that she had falsely implied he was abusive towards her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed titled: I spoke up against sexual violence  and faced our cultures wrath. That has to change.

open image in gallery Johnny Depp in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies ( Disney )

The jury ultimately ruled in favour of Depp, but also found in favour of Heards countersuit, in which she claimed that Depps lawyer had defamed her by describing her abuse allegations as a hoax.

The possibility of Depp returning to the Pirates franchise was the subject of testimony during the trial.

Depp, who starred in four Pirates films from 2003 to 2017, was asked by Heards lawyer: If Disney came to you with $300m dollars and a million alpacas, nothing on this earth would get you to go back and work with Disney on a Pirates of the Caribbean film?

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That is true, Depp answered.

While Bruckheimer previously told The Times that Disney had no plans of bringing Depp back, he would love Depp to return as hes a friend, a terrific actor, and its unfortunate that personal lives creep into everything we do.

open image in gallery Johnny Depp was embroiled in high-profile court case with ex-wife Amber Heard ( Getty )

Margot Robbie was set to lead a new Pirates movie, but Bruckheimer scrapped the project and instead set his sights on another script featuring more of an ensemble cast.

it is unknown whether British actors Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom, who starred in the first three films, will return.

In December 2024, Knightley, who played Elizabeth Swann, said that it wasnt all fun and games on set, as she felt the movies were simultaneously making and breaking her.

I was seen as s*** because of them, and yet because they did so well I was given the opportunity to do the films that I ended up getting Oscar nominations for, the star of Pride and Prejudice and Atonement told The Times.
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All fiction is metaphor, wrote Ursula K Le Guin. Science fiction is metaphor. The writer, most famous for her Earthsea fantasy novels, captured the civil rights movement, second-wave feminism and the rise of environmentalism in her fiction from the 1960s through to her death in 2018. What sets it apart from older forms of fiction seems to be its use of new metaphors, drawn from certain great dominants of our contemporary life. Now, as we live through the greatest acceleration in technological development since the advent of automation, its on science fiction, once again, to probe and provoke. Thats a role that Alien: Earth, the first TV instalment in the Alien franchise, takes very seriously.

A spaceship bearing alien specimens has mysteriously crash-landed on Earth, parking up unceremoniously in the fictional city of New Siam. Onboard, predatory creatures stalk the poorly lit hallways, offering the Prodigy Corporation  a shadowy multitrillion-dollar Really Big Tech firm, led by precocious CEO Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin)  a chance to test its new hybrids. These arent cyborgs (enhanced humans) or synths (humanoid robots) but a new breed: human consciousness in a perfect synthetic body. Were something different, Wendy (Sydney Chandler), a 12-year-old girl piloting, in true Hollywood style, the body of a sexy adult, informs the audience. Something special. Even with the huge teeth and drooling maws of the aliens wreaking havoc on the spaceship, there is nothing more chilling in Alien: Earth than these topical questions about the nature of being.

Science fiction has a long history of engaging in social commentary. Fritz Langs 1927 expressionist masterpiece Metropolis, for example, sounds a warning about untrammelled industrialisation, a contentious political subject of the Twenties. In 1968, Stanley Kubrick released 2001: A Space Odyssey at the height of the Space Race. A year before man landed on the moon, the film presented a philosophical argument about extraplanetary exploration and the friction between progress and mysticism. Again and again, science fiction has aired the preoccupations of its age: The Matrix (information systems of control), The Terminator (mans ability to contain technology), RoboCop (political authoritarianism), Children of Men (nativism in a changing world) and so on.

Alien: Earth is by no means the first work to deal with the question of what it is to be human. Ive seen things you people wouldnt believe, Rutger Hauers replicant, Roy Batty, reveals at the climax of Blade Runner. All those moments will be lost in time, like tears in rain. Time to die. This line, one of the most famous in the history of cinema, is fraught with nuance. Roys real memories  seen through synthetic eyes  have left an imprint on viewers (synthetic memories, through real eyes) grappling with that most tortured of questions: what do we leave behind after this short, mortal life?

Since the Alien franchise was rebooted in 2012 with Prometheus, the series has become ever more interested in the existential questions surrounding artificial life. It reflects a sense that all of science (and therefore all of science fiction) is headed towards the creation of an artificial life indistinguishable from its natural counterpart. Michael Fassbenders David 8 (the antagonist of both Prometheus and its 2017 sequel Alien: Covenant) is a sensitive android who has turned against humanity. Through his judgment of his creator, he demonstrates a bitterness that feels quite familiar. He was human, David opines. Entirely unworthy of his creation.

In the 13 years since Prometheus, the scientific pursuit of a capable artificial intelligence has ramped up significantly. The race for immortality described in Alien: Earth is happening right now, 95 years before the action of the series is set. OpenAI, Meta, Google; these are proxies for the mega-corporations trifling with the singular nature of existence in the Alien universe. We ended death, Essie Daviss compassionate scientist implores her employer. Now we have to make their quality of life better. This expresses a key concern of the AI movement: that progress will result in longer lifespans, faster computers and instantaneous creativity, but that life itself will be damaged, irreparably, in the process.

The lightness of being: Sydney Chandler as a synthetic human in Alien: Earth ( FX )

Or, to quote another sci-fi icon, Jeff Goldblums Dr Ian Malcolm in Jurassic Park, technologists have been so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should. After all, theres a reason why film and television are such good outlets for our societal anxieties. Something has to go wrong. If Jurassic Park had kept a better eye on its dinosaurs (maybe focused on the herbivores rather than the flesh-eating raptors?), then it wouldve made for a much more successful tourist attraction, but a far less exciting film. The Alien franchise comes with certain promises: violent extraterrestrial life will get loose, and the remaining life forms, both living and robotic, will turn on each other. This is the horror genre, after all, so there needs to be a little fear-mongering.

But for Alien: Earth, these preoccupations are meatier than ever. Even looking back, now, at David 8, its striking how much his blanched, dead-eyed visage looks like that of Bryan Johnson, the American entrepreneur who has become a media darling for expounding an anti-ageing regimen. Most people assume death is inevitable, he has told Time magazine. His experiments are reframing what it means to be human. It is dialogue that could have come straight from the mouth of Boy Kavalier. Our fragile earthly bodies, our flawed processing minds; it is the remit of science to replicate, enhance and replace these aged tools. And it is the role of science fiction, then, to raise a scream of its own.

Wouldnt that be nice? Morrow (Babou Ceesay), the cyborg security officer of the crashed ship USCSS Maginot, tells his pursuers. To be all machine, instead of the worst parts of a man. Nice though, or just easy? A world of self-driving cars, vending machines, chatbots and smart speakers might grease the wheel for humanity, but it is a fine line. Alien: Earth rings the alarm bell against the next century eroding and commoditising humanity itself. It is a stark warning that we are on the precipice, utilising the genre tools that, over the years, have exposed our existential fears time and again.

Alien: Earth is available to stream on Disney+
A recent $2.5 million gift to Colorado College will endow a new program that will serve as a bridge between the classroom and the professional world, according to a Tuesday news release.

The endowment comes from the MacLean family, whose connection to CC goes back to the 1920s, officials said.

Colorado College has been part of our family for over a century now  from my grandmother who graduated in 1925, to me in the '80s, and now through my sons, who graduated in 2021 and 2023, said Liz MacLean Larned, a 1983 graduate.

With this gift, were excited to help todays students prepare for the future  not just by building skills, but by discovering how their passions can shape meaningful careers. The Career Catalyst program does just that, and were honored to help it grow.

Launched in 2024, the Career Catalyst program immerses students within an organization so they can interact with employees, observe processes, and develop a clearer picture of what their professional careers might look like, according to College Dean Pedro de Araujo.

Students are able to embed themselves into an organization and stay there for a while, de Araujo said. They earn college credit, but at the same time theyre learning about how these organizations function.

The programs initial class included a two-week course at Mattels global headquarters in Los Angeles, officials said.

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It was incredibly valuable, de Araujo said. The students were able to see the entire arc of the creative process, from ideation to putting a toy onto shelves. One of our students is now employed at Mattel.

In October, Career Catalyst students will spend two weeks inside National Geographic to explore the intersection of storytelling, science, and global impact, the release stated.

The MacLean gift will support the development of Career Catalyst blocks across a broad spectrum of disciplines, according to CC President Manya Whitaker.

This extraordinary gift allows us to reimagine our learning environments in ways that reflect the complexity of the world our students will enter, Whitaker said.

De Araujo, an economics professor, called the endowment essential to the programs success going forward.

The endowment allows us to utilize dollars that are not coming from a students tuition, he said. Without it, I dont think we would be able to scale the program to the levels that we envision.

The plan, according to de Araujo, is to offer a minimum of six Career Catalyst blocks, spread out over the course of the academic year.

We hope to secure long-term partnerships with several organizations, he said. In order to do that, we will need additional resources to support these courses in the future. This gift gets us off to a tremendous start.
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Brooklyn Beckhams family were noticeably absent as he and his wife, Nicola Peltz, renewed their marriage vows just three years after their wedding.

On Monday (11 August), the couple shared pictures of the ceremony, officiated by Nicolas billionaire investor father, Nelson, with the Peltz family front and centre of the nuptials.

Brooklyns parents, David and Victoria, and his three younger siblings  Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20 and Harper, 13  were nowhere to be seen in the glamorous images, which follows rumours that Brooklyn has distanced himself from the family. Nicola and Victoria have denied there is a rift.

The private event was held at the Peltz familys estate in Westchester County, near New York, with Nicola wearing a repurposed version of her mothers Bardot-style wedding dress from 1985 and a tiara.

Pictures from the afterparty showed Nicola, wearing a powder blue gown covered in applique butterflies, and Brooklyn surrounded by friends.

Relations between Brooklyn, 26, and his parents have appeared to fray after he married Peltz in a luxurious 3m ceremony in Palm Beach, Florida, in 2022, and relocated to Los Angeles.

Nicola, 30, has rarely been pictured with her in-laws since the wedding at which she reportedly refused to wear one of Victorias designs.

She later said she had wanted to, telling The Times that Victoria had realised her atelier could not make it in time  so she picked a different designer.

Earlier this year, rumours of a potential feud intensified when Brooklyn and Nicola were absent from Davids 50th birthday celebrations, with guests including Tom Cruise, Guy Ritchie and Gordon Ramsay. The Independent has contacted representatives for the Beckhams and for comment.

open image in gallery Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola have renewed their wedding vows after three years of marriage ( Getty Images )

In June, Victoria poured cold water on rumours of a rift between the Beckham family and Brooklyn, after she shared pictures of the entire clan alongside their dad, David, for Fathers Day.

She presented a united front by sharing a video of David and Harper, Brooklyn and Cruz sitting arm-in-arm on a sofa, singing Sherry by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

While couples typically renew their wedding vows after decades of marriage, it is not known why the Peltz-Beckhams chose to update theirs so early on.

open image in gallery Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz-Beckham with Cruz and Victoria Beckham in 2023 ( Getty Images )

Brooklyn and Nicola shared the images of their vow renewal on Instagram with the caption only love.

He captioned another post, forever my girl, alongside pictures of the couple standing on a stage as they spoke their vows.
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In scenes reminiscent of Andrea Sachs at the beginning of The Devil Wears Prada, a 25-year-old Chloe Malle turned up to her interview at Vogue wearing black tights (an Anna Wintour no-no), boots that were falling apart and a very boring dress.

I think back to my interview at Vogue and Im a little embarrassed, Malle, now 39, said as she looked back at the 2011 grilling with Wintour, for a position as a social editor.

Youre supposed to never wear black. I wore black, Malle said in 2014. It was in March and so cold, so I wore black tights and these black J. Crew suede booties, which were fine, but were sort of falling apart. And then I wore this very boring, shortnot super short, but short-ishDiane von Furstenberg collared dress with a gray and white striped blazer.

It was plain, but it was fine, she added. But then I wore this white-orange pashmina and this orange beaded bag that I thought were really coolI consider myself more of a 'fashion girl' now, but my evolutions been almost by osmosis.

Malle has risen through the ranks of the fashion Biblefrom social editor to podcast host and editor of Vogue.comand is currently the frontrunner to take over from Wintour as the new head of editorial content for U.S. Vogue. The staffer who landed Naomi Bidens 2022 wedding at the White House and a Lauren Sanchez interview ahead of her nuptials to Jeff Bezos, could soon shape the fashion world.

open image in gallery Chloe Malle, the daughter of Murphy Brown star Candice Bergen, and a mom of two who likes nothing more than a quiet night in, is the frontrunner to take the helm of American Vogue from Anna Wintour ( AFP/Getty )

The Ivy League-educated New Yorker - the daughter of Murphy Brown star Candice Bergen and the late French film director Louis Malle - leads a glamorous life, according to the photos that adorn her Instagram.

She often vacations at the family home in the South of France, frequents the beaches of Montauk in the Hampton and enjoys fine dining in some of the hottest spots in New York.

But for Malle, a wife and mother of two, the party-girl lifestyle that is part and parcel of being a Vogue editor in the big city doesnt come naturally.

During her interview with Wintour, the fashion mogul asked what she liked doing in her free time.

I answered truthfully and said I like to sleep and cook, Malle told The New York Post.

A glammed-up photo of Malle taking a selfie in a grandiose-looking bathroom attests to this. Back in my pajamas watching Miss Marple but still thinking about the time I dressed up THREE nights in a row! she captioned the 2022 photo.

As social editor at Vogue, Malles role saw her forced to mingle several times a week, which was a shock to her system.

I work on the best-dressed lists and write party coverage for Vogue.com, which is so funny because I used to hate going out, she told beauty site Into the Gloss in 2014. Im such a morning person. But now that I decide what parties to cover for the website, Im usually out three to four nights a week.

open image in gallery Malle is the daughter of Murphy Brown star and the late French film director Louis Malle. She is pictured with her parents as a child in Central Park. ( Paris Match/Getty )

open image in gallery A glammed-up photo of Malle taking a selfie in a grandiose-looking bathroom is captioned: Back in my pajamas watching Miss Marple but still thinking about the time I dressed up THREE nights in a row! ( @chloemalle/Instagram )

Malles early childhood was spent in Los Angeles, where her mom relocated them from New York when Malle was only three to shoot Murphy Brown. Her father, the Academy Award-nominated director Louis Malle, lived in France because he didnt like living or working in Hollywood, Bergen said in a 2015 interview with Dallas News. The director would travel between Paris and L.A. every other month to visit his wife and daughter.

People who dont know better think its a glamorous arrangement, Bergen said in a 1993 interview with Cosmopolitan magazine. But long-distance communication puts a strain on the marriage. That weve made it at all is a testament to how much we both wanted it.

Malle, an only child, was close with her father and was 10 when he died of lymphoma in 1995.

Malle and her mom moved back to New York five years later, where she attended Riverdale High School. I was always a big readerI was an only child, so it was just me, my dog Lois, and my books, Malle said.

open image in gallery The Ivy League-educated New Yorker, often vacations in Europe and frequents the Hamptons. ( chloemalle/Instagram )

As a teenager, dads of Malles friends would fawn over her mother, she told The New York Times.

I grew up with my friends dads saying Oh, my God, I remember when your mom was young. She was a knockout, Malle said. I think [Bergen] had great insecurity around the fact that people have always focused on that.

She studied comparative literature and writing at Brown University. When I graduated, I wasnt sure what I wanted to do, Malle said. I was always interested in writingI edited the weekly paper at Brown and loved that.

After briefly considering a career in public health, Malle landed an internship at the New York Observer and was later hired to cover real estate. From there, she became a freelance writer, filing pieces for The New York Times Style section and landing bylines in Vogue. Then her big break came in 2011 for the social editor role.

I was hesitant when I was interviewing, because fashion is not one of my main interests in life, and I wanted to be a writer more than an editor, but I was so seduced by the Vogue machine that I couldnt resist, Malle said.

open image in gallery Malle, an only child, was close with her father and was 10 when he died of lymphoma in 1995. ( Paris Match/Getty )

As her career was flourishing, so was her personal life. Malles boyfriend of four years, asset manager Graham Albert, proposed to her on New Years Day in 2014.

He said, I have a question. I think we should get married. And my first response was, 'Thats not a question! Malle told Vogue in 2015. I know Im a brat, but Im an editorwhat do you want from me? Then I said, Oh wow, this is happening. I dont think I ever actually said yes, there was no need.

Malle added that Albert presented the ring from his pocket in a Kleenex. A detail that makes my mother shudder and yell, A KLEENEX! every time she hears it, she joked.

The couple wed at the familys 16th-century stone manor in Le Coual, southwestern France, in the same room her parents Bergen and Louis Malle married in 1980. It was a lavish but intimate four-day affair with just 40 guests.

I grew up spending every summer there and the minute I turn down the driveway my heart leapsI get so excited, Malle said. Its a visceral reaction, I just love being there more than anything.

In May 2020, Malle and Albert welcomed their first child, Louis Albert, named after Malles late father. They had a second child, Alice, in April 2022, according to PEOPLE.

Mom of two is really the most time-consuming occupation at the moment, which Im leaning into, she told the outlet last year. Now Ive just decided ... [to] embrace the fact that theyre going to take most of my time and my logistical mental space.

Bergen is a doting grandmother to Malles children and sees her grandkids regularly, according to social media.

open image in gallery Despite a career that entails being a party-girl, Malle revealed that she used to hate going out and prefers to cook and sleep. ( Getty )

Malle is also not shy about her politics, she has spoken out against Trump and posted left-leaning clothing and messaging on social media.

The day after Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election, Malle asked guest Jack Schlossberg on the podcast The Run Through, What would you say to people who are struggling this week and advice on getting through it?

Malle then suggested an article about how to talk to your children about the election. I really struggled with that this morning, she admitted.

She posted a photo on January 21, 2017, preparing to attend the Womens March in Washington, D.C. to protest Trumps first inauguration. Keep Your Tiny Hands Off My Rights, the placard Malle is holding reads.

Another photo shows Malle wearing a Hillary Clinton sweatshirt while holding her two children on the couch.

open image in gallery Malle, now a mother of two, attended the Womens March in Washington, D.C. to protest Trumps first inauguration. Keep Your Tiny Hands Off My Rights, the placard Malle is holding reads. ( @chloemalle/Instagram )

Wintour, a Democratic fundraiser, has never shied away from politics and raised millions for the party in 2024. She has previously said its important to take a stand when deciding which influential women in politics to feature on the magazines cover.

We profile women in the magazine that we believe in the stand that they're taking on issues. We support them in the fact that we feel that they are leaders, she told CNN in 2019.

Wintour was spotted at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in May to meet with Trumps chief of staff, Susie Wiles, to talk about the impact of tariffs on the fashion industry.

Now Malle has made it to the final rounds of interviews to take the top job, according to Page Six, it remains to be seen how shell navigate being at the helm of American Vogue while juggling personal politics.

As for Wintour, the 75-year-old is reportedly not going too far, and will remain as Conde Nasts global chief content officer and Vogues global editorial director, which may have come as welcome news to Malle.

I actually love working with Anna, because I love someone telling me exactly what needs to be done and exactly what she thinks about something, Malle said of her boss. Theres no indecision. Theres no ambiguity.
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Anxiety and fear are among the main reasons that kids in America skipped school last year.

In a new survey of more than 1,000 parents across the U.S., nearly a third said their child missed more than a week of school due to mental health reasons.

Roughly two out of five students said they did not feel physically well enough to attend classes and one in five said they were too exhausted to go to school, the parents told pollsters from the The Kids Mental Health Foundation.

Since the pandemic, the number of kids who have missed 10 percent or more of days in the school year has nearly doubled, rising to more than 14 million in 2021-2022, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Thats more than two weeks out of a typical 180-day school year. AAP says absenteeism is linked to poor academic performance and sets kids behind their peers.

Along with anxiety, children cite a range of reasons for missing school including learning differences, perfectionism, bullying, grief, toxic authority figures, and feeling unsafe at school.

open image in gallery Ohio mom Kelley McChristy waves goodbye to her sons before school. McChristy and other parents have been dealing with school avoidance. ( The Kids Mental Health Foundation )

Kelley McChristy, a mother of two boys in Columbus, Ohio, has been affected by school avoidance.

Its important to recognize that there are a lot of physical symptoms that manifest in kids that are really related to mental health, McChristy said in a statement.

When a child says, I'm sick, I'm not feeling well, and you can't find a reason for it, it could be related to anxiety.

The survey, published Tuesday, highlights what is known as school avoidance or school refusal  when a student experiences distress about going to school on a regular basis.

It may be a sign of emotional distress and is considered to be a symptom associated with other mental health disorders, according to the School Avoidance Alliance and National Institutes of Health. Those disorders include social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

As many as 28 percent of children experience school avoidance and its most common between the ages of 10 and 13, and for those transitioning to different schools.

Teenagers are also worrying about school gun violence, separate research and surveys have shown. School shootings dropped to 330 incidents last year but were only slightly below the all-time high of 349 in 2023, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database. Guns remain a leading cause of death for children and teenagers, according to Johns Hopkins University.

open image in gallery Texas children pose with signs following a deadly school shooting in Uvalde in 2022. Many children are worrying about school gun violence ( AFP via Getty Images )

Understanding why kids dont want to attend school is key to addressing the issue, experts say.

I see this clinically all the time. Kids feel anxious. They don't want to go. They're in distress. And as parents, we want to protect them. We don't want our kids to be in distress, and so the parent decides to keep them home, Dr. Ariana Hoet, executive clinical director of The Kids Mental Health Foundation and a pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Childrens, said.

The problem with that is the more we avoid things that make us anxious, the bigger the anxiety gets. And so, a parent feels like they're doing the right thing by giving their child a mental health day or keeping them home, but really that's just going to make the anxiety grow, she added.

So, what should parents do? Treatment options include talk therapy that may help a child face their fears and whats making them anxious about going to school. Medications and parent-teacher interventions may also be necessary, the NIH says. Parents can also talk to others whove experienced similar challenges with their children.

I have been shocked by the amount of people that I've talked to whose children are going through the same thing, McChristy said.
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Scientists have found that cats develop dementia similarly to humans with Alzheimers disease, leading to hopes of a breakthrough in research.

Experts at the University of Edinburgh carried out a post-mortem brain examination on 25 cats which exhibited symptoms of dementia in life, including confusion, sleep disruption and an increase in vocalisation, in a bid explore new treatments for humans.

Previously, researchers have studied genetically modified rodents, although the species does not naturally suffer from dementia.

In feline dementia brains, a build-up was found of amyloid-beta, a toxic protein and one of the defining features of Alzheimers disease, leading to hopes of a wonderful breakthrough due to increased accuracy.

The breakthrough was hailed as a perfect natural model for Alzheimers by scientists who worked on it.

Microscopy images revealed a build-up of amyloid-beta within synapses of older cats and feline dementia, and scientists hope the findings offer a clearer idea of how amyloid-beta may lead to feline cognitive dysfunction and memory loss, offering a valuable model for studying dementia in people.

Synapses allow the flow of messages between brain cells, and losing these causes reduced memory and thinking abilities in humans with Alzheimers.

Researchers found evidence that brain support cells, astrocytes and microglia, engulfed the affected synapses, known as synaptic pruning, an important process during brain development but which contributes to dementia.

Experts believe the findings could contribute to the development of new treatments for Alzheimers disease, as well as help to understand and manage feline dementia.

Previously, scientists studying Alzheimers relied on genetically modified rodent models. However, studying feline dementia has the potential to help develop human treatments, due to increased accuracy, it is hoped.

Experts believe the findings could contribute to the development of new treatments for Alzheimers disease ( PA Wire )

The study, funded by Wellcome and the UK Dementia Research Institute, is published in the European Journal of Neuroscience, and included scientists from the Universities of Edinburgh and California, UK Dementia Research Institute and Scottish Brain Sciences.

Dr Robert McGeachan, study lead from the University of Edinburghs Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: Dementia is a devastating disease  whether it affects humans, cats, or dogs. Our findings highlight the striking similarities between feline dementia and Alzheimers disease in people.

This opens the door to exploring whether promising new treatments for human Alzheimers disease could also help our ageing pets.

Because cats naturally develop these brain changes, they may also offer a more accurate model of the disease than traditional laboratory animals, ultimately benefiting both species and their caregivers.

Professor Danielle Gunn-Moore, personal chair of Feline Medicine at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: Feline dementia is so distressing for the cat and for its person.

It is by undertaking studies like this that we will understand how best to treat them. This will be wonderful for the cats, their owners, people with Alzheimers and their loved ones.

Feline dementia is the perfect natural model for Alzheimers  everyone benefits.
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Jeremy Clarkson is finally selling tomato sauce at his pub after originally declaring the eatery a no ketchup zone.

When the 65-year-old opened his Oxfordshire watering hole The Farmers Dog in August 2024, he revealed it would serve exclusively British food. This meant that the popular condiment, which is made from ingredients grown outside the UK, would be banned from the menu.

Following thousands of requests from customers, however, Clarkson has approved the sauces addition to the menu after a Chatham-based producer made it using solely British ingredients.

Condimaniac ketchup is made of tomato passata from Isle of Wight, apple cider vinegar from Hants, Essex salt, and sugar and onions sourced from Britain.

Making a 100 per cent British ketchup after Jeremy Clarkson alerted us to the fact there wasnt one was very hard, the companys boss Kier Kemp said in an Instagram video chronciling the sauces creation.

It turned out to be really hard, he added, noting Clarksons Diddly Squat team requested the sauce as soon as possible.

Kemp said the company has making two sauces at the same time  one containing carrots and onion used to thicken the sauce, as there is no purely British tomato puree.

open image in gallery Condimaniac have made a 100 per cent British ketchup thats been approved by Jeremy Clarksons pub ( Instagram )

Condimaniac, which started with 1,700 bottles, is now being offered at the Clarksons butcher and bottle shop. The sauce is also being sold at Clarksons Diddly Squat Farm Shop, based in Chipping Norton.

The move is a big turnaround from Clarkson, considering the former Grand Tour star became so fed up with requests that a sign was put up telling customers to stop asking for the condiment.

Speaking about the products on offer when the pub first opened its doors, Clarkson said: The menu changes  its whatever weve got. Theres no Coca-Cola, no coffee. Other pubs do coffee. We do British food.

Everything that you consume in here  every single thing  even the black pepper and the sugar, is grown by British farmers.

open image in gallery Jermey Clarkson in his Oxfordshire pub The Farmers Dog ( Prime Video )

Diddly Squat, a 1,000-acre holding, is at the centre of Clarksons Farm, which follows the TV presenters journey as a new farmer and the challenges he faces along the way.

The 64-year-old former Top Gear presenter paid less than 1m for the pub based in Asthall, which was formerly known as The Windmill.

Its opening, however, was marred by complaints surrounding the absence of prices on the menu, with many fans suspecting that this might suggest dishes would be more expensive than at other pubs in the area.

When one person joked on X/Twitter that they would need to remortgage their home to afford a round of drinks at Clarksons pub, the presenter bluntly responded: Its 5.50 a pint.
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When Abby Katzap was studying abroad in Florence and traveling through Europe with her friends, sharing their iPhone locations on the Find My app just made sense. Then 19, her girlfriends initiated the idea, with one arguing that location sharing would keep her safe when walking home alone at night in Dublin.

However, the New York City native was hesitant about the Find My app tracking her. I thought it was weird. It was creepy, the soon-to-be law school student recalls to The Independent. But then I told my friends, OK, fine, if you guys are so worried, here, just take my location.

Three years later, Katzaps list of friends on Find My has grown, with 30 people having access to her every move. And that has led to an internal conflict over if, and when, its time to stop sharing.

Available for iPhone owners, the Find My app allows users to easily locate family and friends on a digital map. Once locations are shared between friends, notifications can also be sent when that person is at the gym, leaves for school, or arrives home safe and sound. The app is also used track all Apple products, including laptops, iPads, Airpods, and Airtags.

Typically, young people like Katzap, now 21, rely on the app to track others locations. A recent study by Civic Science found that 65 percent of Gen Z adults are most likely to use location sharing, with 16 percent of these adults sharing their locations with at least five people. Instagram is also keeping up with the trends, having just launched a map feature where followers can find each other in real time.

open image in gallery Gen Z can track their friends locations on a digital iPhone map ( Getty Images )

Location sharing is now a booming business in the digital world, where we constantly want to be in the know. There appears to be an expectation that being close to someone authorizes a heightened level of access to their lives at all times, with Find My being a mainstay of accessing each other, Kim Rippy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor & Practice Owner at Keystone Therapy Group, explains to The Independent. It appears Gen Zs aren't seeing it as a breach of privacy, but as a necessity of trust and a reflection of how they value the relationship.

As a 27-year-old Gen Z woman in Brooklyn, New York, I have been an avid user of Find My for five years, with 17 people on my location sharing list  some of whom include my parents, sister, boyfriend, and friends since childhood.

Although its not a social media app, I open Find My a few times per day to see what my friends are up to. It's a shameless act, as we're open with one another about doing so, but there are consequences in having access to our friends like this. Checking the app and seeing two of my friends catching up without me has left me feeling anxious, something I didnt anticipate when I mindlessly opened the app as part of my daily ritual. The roles have been reversed, too.

Despite my hurt feelings, I keep my findings from the app to myself. I also recognize that Find My is not to blame for the unnecessary hurt I feel, which could go away if I just deleted the app  though I dont intend to do so.

We tend to assume the best intentions in ourselves and the worst in others, Rippy says. But if we were to give other people the same benefit of the doubt that we give ourselves, then the Find My app wouldn't be nearly as anxiety-inducing. The problem isnt the app, the problem is how users are interpreting what theyre seeing.

Still, 26-year-old Anna-Grace Bolen confesses that shes relied too heavily on Find My app. The Manhattan-based executive assistant explains that in college, she had two friends who would actively check her location, and shed get texts such as, I see youre at Trader Joes, can you get me something? This led to Bolen turning her location off when she was at certain places.

open image in gallery Young people are sharing their locations with more than 10 of their friends ( Getty Images )

It wasnt one-sided, either. If one of them said things were over with a situationship, and I saw her location at his apartment, Id definitely send a check-in text. It wasnt really my place to say anything, but at the time I did, she says. Even though my intentions were mostly rooted in care and safety, I eventually started to feel exposedlike I was constantly being watched.

Since then, and after nine years of using Find My, Bolen narrowed down her location list to just 11 people. I went through and removed people from the app who I didnt feel connected to, she said. Im a pretty open personmy close friends usually know what Im up to.

Meanwhile, Katzap has never had a conflict with friends because of Find My, but she acknowledges that shes not close to the 30 people who have her location. Its too awkward to remove them, she says, since that feels like a friendship-ending move.

 Whens a time for me to just end some relationships? she says. Sometimes you can't delete numbers from your phone because it reminds you of a certain period in your life. Deleting locations is similar. My friends that I dont talk to, like the girl who wanted to walk home alone in Dublin, never got deleted. Since we had all these lovely times in Dublin.

Similar to Katzap, I started gradually sharing locations with people during nights out, and just didnt turn them off. I felt like our relationships were special because they wanted me to keep their locations.

That was four years ago, however, and now I know that some of these locations arent a necessity, since they arent strengthening my friendships at all. Yet, I still fear Ill offend friends if theyre deleted from the app, which is a perspective that Rippy urges us to steer away from.

Especially with Gen Zs, your friends locations have always been there, so removing them feels terrible. It feels like I did something wrong. You dont need to be the best friend to be added, she explained. I think that if young people shifted it to best friends, emergency resources, and family members being the only ones on it, it wont create as much backlash if somebody is removed.
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Meghan Markle has officially announced a return date for her Netflix cooking show, With Love, Meghan.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, released the new trailer for season two of the show on Tuesday. She also announced when fans can expect new episodes, writing in the caption of her Instagram post: The best moments are made to be sharedWith Love, Meghan returns August 26th on @netflix.

The trailer, set to Rockin' Robin" by Bobby Day, shows Meghan cooking, making pottery, and doing other art projects with her friends and family.

I love the idea of spending time together and finding new ways to show people you care, she said in a voiceover. Lets get creative and learn something new.

The trailer also revealed the guest line-up for season two of the Netflix show, including model Chrissy Teigen, designer Tan France, and renowned chefs like Jose Andres, David Chang, Samin Nosrat, and Christina Tosi.

With Love, Meghan season two will air August 26 on Netflix ( Netflix )

Toward the end of the trailer, Meghan even makes a revelation about her husband, Prince Harry. "You know who doesn't like lobster? she told Andres, prompting the chef to hilariously respond: And you married him anyway?

The trailer comes days after Meghan and Harry announced theyve signed a new multi-year, first look deal with Netflix.

We're proud to extend our partnership with Netflix and expand our work together to include the As ever brand, the Duchess said in a statement to The Independent. My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision.

Bela Bajaria, Netflixs Chief Content Officer, added: Harry and Meghan are influential voices whose stories resonate with audiences everywhere. The response to their work speaks for itself  Harry & Meghan gave viewers an intimate look into their lives and quickly became one of our most-watched documentary series.

More recently, fans have been inspired by With Love, Meghan, with products from the new As ever line consistently selling out in record time. Were excited to continue our partnership with Archewell Productions and to entertain our members together.

A string of future projects from Archewell Productions was then announced, with season two of With Love, Meghan being followed by With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, a special episode scheduled to air in December.

There are also plans for an adaptation of Meet Me at the Lake, the bestselling romance novel by Carley Fortune, and a new documentary short titled Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within that will be released later this year.

When Meghan launched the first season of her Netflix show in March, the program received scathing reviews. In her one-star review, The Independents Katie Rosseinsky called the show queasy and exhausting. She also said it simultaneously strains for aspiration and relatability in a way that never gels.

However, a month after the show aired, Meghan confessed to The New York Times that she still has more to learn about cooking. She said shes not a professional cook, admitting she barely used the two pizza ovens in her home.

And when she used the ovens to make sourdough bread, she was not a fan of the results. There are professionals who do that better than I ever will, she said.
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Have you ever given much thought to the subconscious mind? Until recently, I hadnt. I thought it was a Freudian concept, or something nebulous to do with dreams. Now, my wellness-skewed algorithm throws up the term near daily, and its crept into conversations with my most normal of friends.

If you listen to any of the leading guest-interview podcasts, such as The Mel Robbins Podcast, Huberman Lab or Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee, youll hear neuroscience and psychology speakers say that it holds the key to changing our lives. Spirituality and manifestation gurus, even qualified money experts, describe it as our best friend or secret saboteur. Why? Because our subconscious holds beliefs about ourselves and the world.

Maybe you want to be famous but fear public speaking  subconscious beliefs could be holding you back. Cant secure a job interview? Your subconscious might be blocking your efforts. Struggling to lose weight? You might believe you dont deserve to. The idea is that even if you consciously want something, conflicting subconscious beliefs can sabotage it.

Take money: say you want 50,000 in the bank but are deep in debt instead. A subconscious belief could be as complex as, After my dad got a big raise, my parents immediately divorced, so any increase in money feels unsafe, or as simple as, I dont deserve to be happy. Your subconscious programming is shaped by everything thats happened to you: your habits, life experiences, upbringing and culture.

Theres a statistic that often accompanies this theory: Our subconscious mind controls about 95 per cent of our behaviour. When I first saw this written in a leading podcast hosts Instagram caption, I was shocked. What was this all-powerful, shadowy agent of chaos? Each time the phrase came up via enormously popular self-help figures like Dr Joe Dispenza and Dr Bruce Lipton, I was disturbed by it. We like to believe were individuals, making our own choices  but are we really being governed that heavily by an unhelpful force? It was all very Nineteen Eighty-Four, except we are our own totalitarian overlords.

In reality, the three neuroscience and psychology experts I spoke to all say this statistic was inaccurate, despite the number of voices who repeat it. I think its really, really difficult to put a percentage on it, because its something thats not known, explains neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart, author of the upcoming book, The Signs: The New Science of How to Trust Your Instincts. You could say something like a large amount of our behaviours are driven by these subconscious beliefs. Obviously, the more psychological work people have done, the more aware they are of whats below consciousness.

open image in gallery The idea of reprogramming our subconscious is essentially the science of neuroplasticity, argues Dr Tara Swart ( AFP/Getty )

The reason the exact stat is unknown is because the subconscious mind itself is so unknown, argues Dr Devin Terhune, a reader in experimental psychology at Kings College London. Theres still debate and controversy about the notion of subconscious, he says. Theres clearly cognitive processing occurring outside of awareness that is very likely to impact our behaviour and our experience of the world. But we dont have a comprehensive understanding about how systematic that is.

While not something to repeat verbatim, the experts suggest that the quote is, however, a useful metaphor. In his book, Thinking, Fast and Slow, Nobel Prize winner Dr Daniel Kahneman introduced the concept of a dual-process theory of the mind. System 1 is fast, automatic, subconscious thinking and driven by patterns and instincts. System 2 is slow, effortful, conscious thinking. Though he doesnt give a percentage to that subconscious thinking, he nevertheless argues that the subconscious  system 1  drives most day-to-day decisions.

When it comes to making a series of automatic decisions  like while driving or quickly judging that someone might pose a threat  this system can be ideal. Its less helpful when you only seem to be attracted to grossly unavailable people. Or when you absentmindedly buy something on Vinted every time you feel empty inside.

The happy news is that it is very possible to change our subconscious mind: the idea of reprogramming our subconscious (to use the phrase du jour) is essentially the science of neuroplasticity, argues Swart. Neuroplasticity is the brains ability to form new neural connections and reorganise existing pathways in response to things like learning, experience or injury.

open image in gallery Swart says that reprogramming your subconscious mind involves four steps: awareness, focused attention, deliberate practice, and accountability ( Jermaine Binns )

Swart breaks down her process for reprogramming your subconscious mind into four steps: awareness, focused attention, deliberate practice, and accountability. The first step  awareness  is about noticing your thoughts and identifying the deeper beliefs behind them. Then comes focused attention, which means paying attention to how those beliefs are influencing your behaviour  where theyre holding you back or driving your actions. Next is deliberate practice, where you actively start changing your behaviour to align with the new belief you want to adopt. Finally, accountability is about making sure you stick with it. Over time, this process helps you rewire unhelpful beliefs.

There are only certain things you can change in the subconscious, though, Dr Dan Siegel, executive director of the Mindsight Institute and co-director of the Mindful Awareness Research Center at UCLA, tells me. But not before he cautioned, Lets use the word influence or alter rather than reprogram  reprogram sounds too much like a computer metaphor. No matter how much we want to believe otherwise in this age of AI and self-optimisation, we are not machines. The mind, he says, doesnt live only in the brain either  its relational and embodied, including the brain and nervous system.

Temperament, for example  formed deep in the brainstem before birth  is something we cant change. Youre born with a temperament that non-consciously influences your motivation and emotions. That shapes personality. But how you adapt to it happens in the limbic area and cortex. That part is changeable. So the phrase you can reprogram your subconscious mind needs qualifications. More accurately, you can influence certain aspects of energy flow in your nervous system that are changeable.

Relationships are a key area where transformation is possible. You can grow up in a hostile, abusive environment. That trauma embeds in your nervous system outside of awareness  what wed call subconscious  and continues to affect you. As a therapist, I work to influence those patterns so that the chaos or rigidity they cause can be released.

open image in gallery Cultural narratives shape our subconscious via family, society, and social media ( Getty/iStock )

Cultural narratives also shape the mind  from family, society, and social media. Siegel believes we should challenge ideas that no longer serve us, especially those disproven by science, like money buys happiness or we are just our bodies. But changing these beliefs isnt as simple as wiping a hard drive, though it would be nice if it were.

There are many practices aimed at changing beliefs, including affirmations, visualisations, hypnosis, EFT (tapping on meridian points  locations on the body that are central to traditional Chinese medicine  with verbal affirmations), and journaling to uncover limiting beliefs. These methods can obviously seem unusual, especially since they aim to bypass the conscious mind and influence deeper, subconscious patterns. While many of these techniques lack strong scientific validation and are often labelled as pseudoscience, some studies suggest potential benefits, particularly when they increase self-awareness or reduce stress. Anecdotally, many people report positive experiences.

When I did rapid resolution therapy (RRT) with practitioner Daniela Alfieri, the combination of light hypnosis and her dream-logic reframing felt soothing. She guided me back to past experiences and even to an old flat Id shared with an ex, helping shift how I felt about them. Later, I tried an EFT session with Mos Jef, a cognitive repatterning specialist. As I tapped on acupuncture points, answered questions, and repeated phrases, I felt myself sinking into murky beliefs and emotions. He created space for me to voice sad, unconscious thoughts and feelings. Where did they come from? I had never consciously thought them before.

What I really wanted, though, was to learn a method that I could use myself at home to continue to change beliefs, so I went on a Psych-K course to learn how to be a facilitator. Course instructors Cazzie Dare and Sharon Lock explained that Psych-K is not a quick fix, although results can sometimes be felt immediately. During a process known as a balance, both hemispheres of the brain are brought into alignment, creating what they call a whole-brain state. In this state, the subconscious mind is more receptive, allowing limiting beliefs to be replaced with new, supportive ones.

Though tempting, the idea of Psych-K was not to sit for three intense days balancing everything with the intention of becoming a billionaire with a new romantic partner and a transformed outlook on life by the end of the week (though those goals were hypothetically very possible to work on). Instead, the other students and I were invited to look at what was happening in our lives right now: where was there conflict or an imbalance? What wasnt working in our lives? From there, we mentally pivoted to what we wanted to experience instead.

For example, if you burst into tears during your annual appraisal with your boss, later that day, you might reflect and realise you often cry inappropriately and preemptively whenever you feel criticised. You could then decide to balance for the belief: I stay calm and open whenever my behaviour is assessed by others and it is safe to do so. Crucially, you dont need to analyse why you get so emotional in these situations or what past experiences might have informed this  you only need to know what youd rather experience. Wed be there forever if we tried to identify all the limiting beliefs, says Dare. In Psych-K, we dont need to know the root cause of something either in order to make the change.

The process took a few days to learn through practising on ourselves and others. It included several parts, such as muscle testing to check whether our subconscious and superconscious minds permitted a change, physical movements to help achieve a whole-brain state, and short scripts to guide the process. The superconscious was described as a higher aspect of consciousness or inner wisdom that oversees your wellbeing and ensures any changes made are safe and appropriate for you.

Curiously, the superconscious mind will sometimes say no to things. When I muscle tested myself to see whether my superconscious considered it safe for me to balance for I am calm and confident when I have money in my bank account, I got a positive response (a stiff, immovable leg). But when I muscle tested to see if it was appropriate for me to balance for I am calm and confident when my bank account is empty, my leg bowed in easily. At first I was surprised. Wouldnt it be more monk-like and worthy for me to be OK no matter what? After all, thats what manifestation is all about: believe and act as if all is as you desire. But it wasnt difficult for me to guess that my already laid-back relationship with said account being woefully empty is no longer helpful. I apparently need that jolt of adrenaline to make positive changes to my spending.

An important final step after a successful balance is to create an action step that supports that belief, which reminded me of what Swart had said. It shows your subconscious that youre serious about this change and reinforces the new neural pathways youre creating.

In the following weeks after the training, I found that the more niche and specific my balance statements were, the more obvious and traceable the results became, often within a short time. Possibly my most peculiar balance was for the belief: Scriptwriting is as second nature to me as doing a simple Q&A article. As a journalist of 15 years, interviewing someone and typing up the conversation in Q&A format is something I could do gravely ill and blindfolded. Writing a script for fun, a much more creatively demanding process, usually involves handwringing and cartoonish pacing around my office. One day, while screenwriting, I realised my overthinking had vanished. It had felt effortless all morning. My subconscious had clearly logged traces of the scriptwriting books Id read and films Id watched. At the very least, the stress Id mentally attached to the task had disappeared.

Perhaps whats most noticeably changed in me is my idea of the subconscious as an evil mastermind. I found that engaging with it could be playful and easy. If you can be open-minded  and, considering where the science is currently, you do have to be receptive to radical new ideas  you might be surprised by what you learn about yourself.

Why does science have to prove everything? Swart tells me at the end of my call with her, after Id run her through a few of the methodologies Ive mentioned here in this article. If something makes you feel better, why is that not OK? Meditation: there wasnt science for that 10 or 15 years ago, and there is now. But that doesnt mean that it wasnt helping people that were doing it before. I think with the subconscious, a lot more is going to emerge that we actually dont know.

Illustration by Molly Benge
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An Atlanta father of 20 was fatally shot last month while allegedly attempting an armed robbery, police say.

On July 19, DAnthony Reaves, 44, was killed outside the Greyhound bus station on Forsyth Street around 5:30 a.m. He was shot twice in the face and once in the arm, according to police.

In a Wednesday update, Atlanta homicide detectives said their investigation determined the case should be classified as a felon killed by a private citizen. Police said Reaves was in the middle of an armed robbery when he was shot.

Reaves was shot by someone getting off a bus, his family told WSB-TV. The Independent has contacted Atlanta police for comment.

Reaves was a father to 12 biological children and eight stepchildren, ranging from ages 10 to 31. Ten of them attended his funeral at North Avenue Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta on August 2, which boasted a line of mourners stretching to the parking lot.

open image in gallery Atlanta say DAnthony Reaves death was the result of his committing an armed robbery. ( GoFundMe )

"Seeing everybody come out as one big community was really nice, and we really appreciate all the extra support because were gonna need it," Sha'Miracle Brown, one of Reaves' daughters, told Fox 5 Atlanta, adding that their father was well known across Atlanta communities.

"My dad was like a crazy dancer, but I will always remember the music standpoint. Because some of us make music, all of us are musically inclined, and some of us play instruments. So my dad passed that musical gene down to all of us," Brown said.

"He loved his kids. You could ask anyone, any single person, and they would say we were his pride and joy. I dont think theres a room we could walk into that he did not mention us or our accomplishments or our accolades."

Reaves family plans to start a foundation to support his children and help fathers leave the streets and rebuild their lives.

"Were fixing to open up the DAnthony Reaves foundation so well be able to serve his kids so theyll be taken care of," Deoinetea Hightower Reaves brother told the outlet. "We got the Power for the Fathers represented for him as well, where we help the fathers get off the street and get their lives back together."

Hightower added that he is pushing Greyhound to end its policy allowing guns across state lines and urging Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to tighten gun laws to keep firearms away from young people.

Further details about the shooting were not available.
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As he prepared to prosecute Karen Read in her second murder trial, a Massachusetts district attorney asked the state for $1 million in assistance.

In June, Read was acquitted of second-degree murder related to the 2022 death of her Boston police officer boyfriend John OKeefe, nearly a year after her first trial ended in a mistrial in July 2024.

Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey asked state lawmakers for financial assistance in October 2024, as his office prepared to try Read a second time, a letter obtained by NBC10 revealed.

"If you talk about the perfect storm, I have that going on in Norfolk County," Morrissey wrote in a letter addressed to Massachusetts House Speaker Ronald Mariano, according to the report.

"A simple domestic motor vehicle homicide case in Canton has blown up to a national sensation. The time, the effort, and the resources the office has had to commit to prosecute the first case and now for a second retrial are substantial, he said, referring to the Read retrial. It is an unusually well financed defense."

The Norfolk district attorney asked state lawmakers for $1 million in assistance as his office prepared to retry Karen Read, who faced a second trial that ended in an acquittal after her first trial ended in a mistrial last year ( The Patriot Ledger 2025 )

To get a sense of just how much was poured into the defense, Read owed her legal team $5 million as of last October, months before her second trial began, Vanity Fair reported at the time.

Morrissey noted that his decisions to appoint experts and special prosecutors strained resources and asked for a one-time payment of $1 million, the letter states.

The DA tapped Hank Brennan last September to lead the prosecution. Brennan billed the DAs office more than half a million dollars  $566,000  for his work on the case from September 2024 through the trials conclusion in June, invoices obtained by NBC10 showed.

He charged $250 per hour, according to the documents.

Testing and expert witnesses also cost the DAs office hundreds of thousands of dollars, the outlet reported.

A supplemental appropriations act for fiscal year 2024 shows that state lawmakers approved $1 million for the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association. Online records show Governor Maura Healy signed the bill into law last December.

The DA accessed roughly $400,000 of those funds, a spokesperson for Morrissey told NBC10.

The Independent has reached out to the DAs office for more information about the letter and how much it received from the supplemental appropriations legislation.

Read was acquitted of most of the serious charges she faced on July 18 but was found guilty of a lesser charge of drunk driving in connection with the 2022 death.
Federal agents seized a phone, bags of cash and computers from a Colorado Springs restaurant on Wednesday in what appears to be a money laundering investigation, according to witnesses and court documents.

The Drug Enforcement Administration raided El Ranchito, 3950 Airport Road, and El Ranchito No. 2, 3815 Maizeland Road. Both are restaurant-grocery stores east of Academy Boulevard.

"It seems like they're trying to accuse us of money laundering or drugs, but there's absolutely nothing illegal going on here," said David Huerta, an accountant for the business. "It's just harassment."

The Gazette obtained a sealed search warrant for the second location that authorized law enforcement to obtain any "records, documents, physical items and proceeds from March 1, 2024, to the present found within the subject premises."

A witness, who wished to not be named, said he saw 10 to 15 law enforcement officials go into the second location, but he did not see any arrests.

A Gazette reporter saw at least four DEA agents, some masked, carrying a box with papers in it. The agents went into two unmarked vehicles  a van and a truck.

"It is an ongoing investigation with HSI (Homeland Security Investigations). ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is not involved," the Drug Enforcement Administration's Rocky Mountain Field Division spokesperson told Gazette news partner KOAA-TV.

At the El Ranchito along Airport Road, the TV station saw DEA agents carrying evidence boxes out of the building, but it was unclear what was in them.

KOAA saw Homeland Security, DEA and officials with Enforcement and Removal Operations shortly after 1 p.m. at the location. ERO handles "all aspects" of the immigration enforcement process, including arrests and detainment, according to its website.

A Channel 5 crew captured officers walking out of the store with employees in handcuffs; however, law enforcement has not said who was detained and why.

In addition to DEA and Homeland Security, the FBI, IRS and local and state officials were seen in Colorado Springs and Denver on Wednesday, according to a statement from the DEA. The DEA declined to comment on the investigations other than to say it was prioritizing people who have "profited from the trafficking of illegal drugs and those who have enabled the laundering of illicit proceeds."

At El Ranchito, DEA agents arrived in unmarked cars, blocked both entrances to the strip mall and stationed agents at the front and back entrances of the restaurant, said Keithlan Carter, a bystander who recorded what happened with his cellphone.

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Another bystander, Michael Hodsi, told The Gazette that the people taken into custody "went with pride."

"Some of those people, you know, they've taken care of me when I've been homeless out here on the street," Hodsi said. "They truly believe in doing the right thing and they were truly good examples to me to do better, to become better."

He described El Ranchito as a family-oriented business that treated everyone with respect.

A volunteer with the Colorado Rapid Response Network, a freelance group that tracks ICE activity across the state, said she also saw ERO agents at the first location, adding that law enforcement officials put five detained people wearing restaurant uniforms in an unmarked car.

The volunteer, who asked not to be named, said ICE has used other agencies as a guise in the past.

"They always bring someone else as kind of a smokescreen for an excuse to be there. And then if they just happen to find people who are not documented, then they'll take them away  at least from what I've noticed," the volunteer said.

Wednesday's investigations follow others by federal officials, including Aug. 7 when the DEA executed two search warrants at an apartment complex in eastern Colorado Springs that was allegedly being used to distribute drugs by Mexican cartel members and July 31 when a housing development in Black Forest was raided by ICE operatives.

Federal operations in Colorado Springs began April 27 when an early-morning raid happened at 296 S. Academy Blvd., at the northwest corner of Academy Boulevard and Airport Road. The DEA estimated there were about 200 people inside the nightclub. About 300 law enforcement agents from multiple agencies participated in the raid, including the DEA, Colorado Springs police, and the El Paso and Douglas County sheriffs offices.

The raid led to 18 people taken into custody after 104 were detained.

Three individuals were criminally charged after the raid. The most notable was Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez, a 27-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Carson.

Orona-Rodriguez was arrested for alleged cocaine distribution just days after a large-scale federal raid of a Colorado Springs illegal nightclub in late April has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges.

Orona-Rodriguez appeared out of custody May 29 after a federal judge ruled he was eligible for release at his last hearing May 15.
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A man who worked for a security firm at Little League headquarters has been accused of threatening a mass casualty event after being sent home from his job, say police.

Isaiah Randall was charged with four counts each of terroristic threats with the intention to terrorize another, terroristic threats causing serious public inconvenience, and harassment, according to court documents seen by the Sun Gazette.

Randall is accused of texting his supervisor You guys better have heavy security after the **** you pulled today, because I will be back, according to a South Williamsport police affidavit.

The 20 year-old from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, reportedly sent the message to his superior at Securitas  a firm that provides security for the World Series ESPN crew, police said.

After sending the message, Randall posted Mass Casualty Event on his Facebook page with a countdown underneath that stated: 01 day, 22 hours, and 41 minutes, the affidavit seen by the Sun Gazette alleged.

ESPN, Little League, and Securitas were all tagged so that each was notified of the threat, police said.

Police did not share the accuseds role at Securitas, nor did the court documents state what time the text was sent to his supervisor. They say the text was sent after Randall was sent home for (committing) a company policy violation.

On August 6, a warrant for Randalls arrest was filed at the office of District Judge William Solomon. Officials from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force traveled to Randalls home and took him into custody without incident, police said.

Following his arraignment on eight felony terroristic threats charges plus the harassment counts, Randall was committed to the Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $125,000 bail, the Sun Gazette reported.

Cpl. Trent Dunlap said in the criminal complaint that the alleged statement and post, caused Little League World Series, a place of assembly, to divert from normal operations.

Given the nature of this international event, we believe a serious and undeniable threat was made by Isaiah Randall towards Little League International, ESPN, Securitas, and all those attending this event, the officer said.

The Independent contacted Little League HQ, the South Williamsport police, and the Lycoming Regional police department for comment.
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A former letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service has pleaded guilty to stealing checks and debit and credit cards then selling them to accomplices, using the pilfered money to fund a luxury lifestyle of trips to the Caribbean and Instagram brags with piles of cash, officials say.

Marry Ann Magdamit, 31, of Carson, California, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, the Justice Department announced on Monday.

During her time at the Torrance Main Post Office in the Los Angeles area, Magdamit stole mail containing checks, personal information, and debit and credit cards. The mail carrier then either activated the stolen cards or sold them to co-conspirators.

She also arranged to have people cash stolen checks, often using counterfeit identity documents matching the name of the original intended recipients, officials said.

Letter carrier who stole checks and cards from mail could face 30 years in prison, officials say ( Department of Justice )

The scheme hit federally insured banks and credit unions among other institutions, the Justice Department said.

As the money piled up, Magdamit is accused of flaunting a luxury lifestyle on social media, posing with piles of cash and taking trips to Aruba and Turks and Caicos.

A December 2024 search of her apartment led to the seizure of 133 stolen credit and debit cards,16 Treasury checks, and a loaded, un-serialized Glock-style ghost gun with an extended 27-round magazine, according to authorities.

Magdamit was arrested on July 1 when authorities learned she was still making purchases with victim credit cards.

A search of her apartment that day yielded more stolen cards, its alleged.

She has agreed to forfeit a Rolex watch and other goods.

The 31-year-old is set for sentencing on October 27 and could face up to 30 years in federal prison.
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Florida authorities fear a 5-month-old may be in danger, as they search for a couple traveling with the baby and wanted in connection to the murder of a victim reported missing a week ago.

Deputies with the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office are searching for Alfredo Carballo Gonzalez, 32, and Ariely Alvarez Cabrera, 27. They believe the pair is with a baby, authorities said. The couple is wanted in the killing of 37-year-old Daylon Fleitas, who went missing on August 3 from Hialeah, a city just north of Miami.

He indicated that he would be meeting with an acquaintance but never returned home and has not been seen or heard from since, police in Hialeah said at the time, according to NBC Miami.

Authorities say the suspects should be considered armed and dangerous. They also warned that the baby with them may be in danger.

Authorities are searching for Alfredo Carballo Gonzalez, 32, and Ariely Alvarez Cabrera, 27, as well as a baby in their care. ( Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Office )

The couples relationship to the child was not immediately known.

I dont know if theyre legally married, but they are a couple and they have this 5-month-old, Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office spokesperson Detective Angel Rodriguez told Local 10. Theyre wanted for murder. Theyre fleeing and they have a 5-month-old. Our biggest concern is the safety and the wellness of this 5-month-old baby.

It was also unclear how Fleitas died, or if his body had been found. The case is being investigated by Miami-Dade homicide detectives.

Authorities also warned that anyone found to be helping the pair will face charges.

Anyone with information should call the sheriffs office Homicide Bureau at (305) 471-2400 or Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.
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Nearly two decades after a bag stuffed with dismembered human remains was discovered burning along a road outside of Atlanta, the woman once suspected in the case has now been charged with what authorities described as a gruesome murder.

Angel Marie Thompson had been previously charged with concealing the death of her 24-year-old girlfriend Nicole Alston and stealing her identity. Now, Thompson is charged with her murder, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis announced at a news conference Wednesday.

Willis called the case one of the most gruesome shes ever seen in her 29 year career.

This case involves what are just horrific facts, she said.

Thompson was booked into Fulton County Jail on Monday, with a murder warrant dated December 6, 2007, the same day Alstons partial remains were found inside a burning black bag dumped along a road in Troup County, Georgia.

When they found her body, it was cut. They found 13 pieces of her body, Willis said, adding the reason they were not able to identify her immediately was because her hands, feet, and head were missing.

open image in gallery Angel Marie Thompson had been previously charged with concealing the death of her 24-year-old girlfriend Nicole Alston. Now, shes charged with murder ( Troup County Sheriffs Office )

The case was cold for years. In 2023, it was reopened after advanced DNA testing confirmed the remains belonged to Alston.

Investigators learned that Alston had left New York in 2007 with her girlfriend, Angel Marie Thompson, to start a new life in Atlanta, Willis confirmed on Wednesday.

In the years after the killing, Alston appeared  at least on paper  to still be alive. Prosecutors allege that following her death, Thompson assumed Alstons identity, collecting more than $200,000 in government benefits and using her name to secure housing and services until 2015, when the Social Security Administration tried to re-qualify her for benefits. It was then that Thompson reportedly resumed using her own name.

In August 2024, Thompson was charged with concealing Alstons death and committing years of identity fraud in her name. However, authorities were not able to connect her to the murder.

On Wednesday, DA Willis revealed that Alstons mother, Sylvia Alston, had received a call from her daughter just 10 days before the killing. Alston told her that her girlfriend, Thompson, had become abusive and that she wanted to come home.

She didn't deserve this and I wish I'd never let her come to Georgia, Alstons mother said through tears at the press conference. She described Alston as bubbly, artistic and the life of the party.

open image in gallery DA Willis revealed that Alstons mother, Sylvia Alston, had received a call from her daughter just 10 days before the killing. Alston told her that her girlfriend had become abusive and that she wanted to come home ( 11Alive )

She was happy, and through all of her trials and struggles, she always made everything seem OK. She was always the one people called on to talk to, Sylvia Alston said.

She went on to explain that her daughter Nicole was a very trusting person and that she believes this is what led to being taken advantage of by Thompson. Sylvia Alston also noted that her daughter struggled with dyslexia and often was dependent on others.

I never stopped looking for her, Sylvia Alston added.

Authorities said that the night Alstons body was found, Thompson was on dating websites looking for people to talk to. A month later, she was reportedly trying to rent the apartment they had shared, and was also trying to sell their car.

Willis said investigators believe there may be more victims and encouraged anyone who might have information from around that time to come forward.

She said her office plans to have an indictment by the end of October and that it will include murder, human trafficking, and domestic violence charges.

Thompson remains in custody at the Fulton County Jail without bond.

Troup County investigator Clay Bryant said on Wednesday that it took a true sociopath to do what happened to Alston.

They deserve some finality, he added about Alstons family. They deserve the truth, and we're just lucky enough to find some facts to learn what happened to Nicole.
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Thirteen Dominican Republic citizens have been charged over claims they scammed 400 U.S. grandparents, who thought their grandchildren needed money, in a scheme that amassed more than $5 million in losses.

Federal authorities accuse the defendants of running a call center operation in the Dominican Republic that targeted elderly victims in the United States into giving away tens of thousands of dollars by pretending to be a victims grandchild or someone assisting the grandchild, according to the affidavit. Some of the defendants live in the Dominican Republic while some live in the U.S.

The defendants would call the victim, impersonate the victims grandchild or other loved one, and then convince the victim that the loved one is in legal or medical trouble requiring money to help remedy, the filing says.

The caller then directs the victims to hand cash to a courier, ship cash, or arrange for victims to be driven to a bank to withdraw cash, prosecutors allege.

Oscar Manuel Castanos Garcia is accused of leading the operation. He oversaw call centers in the Dominican Republic, where the fraudulent calls were made by his co-conspirators, the document claims. These call centers typically ran out of residences.

open image in gallery One of the defendants outside of a call center, which were typically run out of homes in the Dominican Republic, according to federal prosecutors ( U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Massachusetts )

Employees at the call centers either functioned as openers, who impersonated grandchildren in trouble, and closers, who impersonated attorneys for the grandchildren and directed the victims to send cash, the filing states.

A script for openers shows that the defendants would sometimes identify themselves in vague terms, like your oldest grandson. The caller would then lay out a tragic scenario, like a car crash, according to authorities.

open image in gallery Photo of a call center, where the defendants are accused of making fraudulent calls to grandparents in the United States while pretending to be grandkids caught in troubling situations, an affidavit says ( U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Massachusetts )

The call center employees would often call victims again  two or three times  and ask for more money for their grandchildren, offering a variety of excuses, such as claiming that a pregnant woman's baby was lost in the crash, federal prosecutors said.

The scheme relied on so-called runners, who picked up cash from the victims. The runners would then order a ride-share car to the home of the victim, who would provide the cash. The unwitting ride-share drivers then deliver the packages to the runners locations, the prosecutors allege.

open image in gallery A script that the callers would use to trick grandparents into sending over cash, prosecutors allege ( U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Massachusetts )

At least 50 of the 400 victims, who average an age of 84, are based in Massachusetts, the affidavit states.

Nine of the defendants are in custody while four remain at large, as of Tuesday evening. The four at-large defendants are from New York, Florida, and New Jersey.

All face money laundering conspiracy charges, while most of them also face conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud charges, both of which carry sentences of up to 20 years in prison.
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Four residents of a Detroit-area senior citizen apartment complex are recovering from gunshot wounds after a love triangle turned violent.

When Detroit Police were called to Sheridan Place Apartments, initial reports suggested that the incident, in which one man shot another man in a wheelchair, was in response to the loud music at a barbecue.

However, a far more personal motive at the heart of the attack has been revealed.

Reginal Ervin, a resident at the senior apartment, told FOX 2 Detroit that the entire thing was the violent culmination of a known love triangle between tenants.

"Ive been here six years. I know everything thats going on," he told the broadcaster. "[It was a] love triangle. [The shooter] said he was gonna kill him and thats what he said he was going to do."

Sheridan Place apartments in Detroit. Police were called to a shooting at the senior living apartments that allegedly was motivated by a love triangle ( Google Maps )

Ervin and other residents explained that one-third of the triangle was upset that a 65-year-old woman he was romantically interested in, identified only as Johnnie, started dating someone new. That man, the 70-year-old in a wheelchair, was shot at the party. The shooting suspect is also believed to be in his early 70s.

According to witnesses, the gunman shot Johnnies new boyfriend and two others, before someone else tackled him, knocking the gun from his hand.

"Johnnie" then grabbed the gun and shot the gunman in self-defense.

Four people were wounded, and all are expected to survive.

No charges have been brought at this time. Detroit Assistant Police Chief Arnold Williams called the shooting "ridiculous."

"This is a shooting so ridiculous in nature that you can't even explain it," Williams said. "We're having incidents again where people can't resolve common issues. You don't have to resort to a gun because somebody is playing loud music. It is just irrational. You are in your 70's, this should not be what's going on."
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A Washington state man fighting cancer had his car stolen on Tuesday while he was receiving his first round of treatments.

Val Mohney, who lives in Davenport, told KING5 that he was staying with a friend, Kristen Dean, in Columbia City to begin treatment for his prostate cancer.

Around 6 a.m. Tuesday morning, Mahoney received a call from police telling him a vehicle registered in his name had been stolen and found crashed into a fence at a nearby middle school.

"Unfortunately, I started my day off with having my car ripped off and driven through a fence," Mohney told the broadcaster. "I'm just trying to deal with cancer, and now I have to deal with that."

Mohney said the car was seriously damaged and said it looked as thought someone had "taken a grenade to the ignition." It was left abandoned in the school parking lot.

He told KING5 that he works as a real estate agent, so losing his vehicle doesn't just rob him of his daily transportation, it robs him of his livelihood.

Val Mohney, a man in Washington state who is fighting cancer, had his car stolen on his first day of treatments. A GoFundMe has been established to help him in the wake of his diagnosis and the theft ( GoFundMe )

"I'm the sole bread winner so if I'm not making money there's no money coming in," he said.

Mohney also cares for his mother, who is living with dementia. He has a partner, but they have a disability which affects how much they can work, according to the broadcaster.

While it seems like storm clouds are following Mohney around, he's said he's focused on the large  and growing  community of supporters who have rallied in his time of need.

"Really, I'm very fortunate because I have a big community of people that love me and I don't know how people that don't do it when stuff like that comes up," he told the broadcaster.

For example, the friend who he had been staying with, Dean, is helping him get to work between treatments.

Seattle police are reviewing surveillance footage to try to identify the person who stole Mohney's car. As of Tuesday, that individual is still at large.

In the meantime, a GoFundMe has been set up to assist Mohney as he continues his treatment.
The annual Point in Time headcount of El Paso Countys homeless population taken one frigid night in January showed a large and record-high jump in numbers this year, leading to the conclusion that the community needs more emergency shelter beds.

But, facing a more than $1 million budget shortfall, one key provider says it has no choice but to shrink its operations.

The Salvation Armys local office will reduce emergency overnight beds for families with children by half to balance its 2025-2026 budget that starts Oct. 1, Maj. Stephen Ball, El Paso County coordinator and corps officer, said Tuesday.

That this is happening at the time were seeing the Point in Time giving us indication we need more beds is very sad, but its just a reality. The good news is we arent closing the shelter.

The Family Hope Center, at 709 S. Sierra Madre St., will take offline 16 of the shelters family-style rooms and continue to offer 15 spaces for homeless parents and children to stay for up to three months while they work on resuming a track of independence.

All services will be available, Ball said, from shelter beds and meals to case management and assistance with finding stable housing and employment, busing to schools and other support programs for children and adults.

Eight to 10 employees out of a staff of 54 are being laid off, also to balance the $9 million annual budget, he said. We just dont have the income to keep the staff on.

The shelter has been steadily full, with up to 100 clients in the 31 family rooms at any given time, Ball said.

Hes still holding out hope that lingering grants applications will be fulfilled and community donations will flow. But as of now, the plan is to reduce capacity by 50% to keep programs for veterans, seniors, families and children going.

The Point in Time is not a definitive study, but it is a good indication that we look to each year to give us a picture of whats going on, Ball said. What it revealed this year is theres a steady increase with homelessness.

The Family Hope Center has accommodated about 10 families more this year than the first six months of 2024, he said.

I do think we need more shelter beds in our work with children and families, Ball said.

More parents than ever before are contacting the city's other family-sheltering program, Family Promise of Colorado Springs, said Tim Close, executive director. The organization works with 29 churches to house seven families at a time while they set a plan for returning to permanent housing.

In any given month, the waiting list is around 50 families, Close said, and last month brought 100 requests for assistance with paying rent and utility bills.

The need is so high that when we transition a family out, were immediately doing intake for a new one, Close said. The current financial climate with the cost of living, the lack of federal funding and the trickle-down impact of economic uncertainty has caused the need for families experiencing homelessness to go through the roof. The number of folks living in their vehicles has increased substantially in the last 90 days.

For several years, the Salvation Army has been working on a strategy to relocate its homeless shelter from southwest downtown to the Salvation Army headquarters at 908 Yuma St., and possibly expand it. But given its fiscal situation, that idea is no longer feasible, Ball said.

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Its still a vision. Wed love to be able to provide whats needed in our community. But we have to provide what we can operate. Thats been the biggest challenge  trying to fund a program thats needed but isnt as strongly supported as we need it to be.

Bed for adults up for debate

Whether the community needs more shelter beds for individual homeless adults depends on who weighs in, since capacity doesnt necessarily translate to occupancy.

The number of shelter beds available during the Point in Time survey on Jan. 26 was 194 beds short  if all 1,745 people counted had occupied every year-round, seasonal or overflow emergency bed in the community that night, according to organizers.

Sgt. Olav Chaney, who leads the Colorado Springs Police Departments Homeless Outreach Team, said the citys main shelter, Springs Rescue Mission, doesnt turn people away.

Whoever wants in, they add more beds. Theres always accessibility at Springs Rescue Mission.

Some people prefer illegal camping because they dont like the rules at shelters, Chaney said, which often include drugs and alcohol being prohibited.

Some people who live on the streets also say they dont like to use the shelter because of crowding, issues like bedbugs, fights, restrictions on food brought in and other circumstances. Others have been banned from Springs Rescue Mission for flagrant violations or cannot take care of themselves physically to function independently.

Shelter bed availability has not been a consistent issue, said Melissa Oskin, co-founder and executive director of Hope COS, which offers addiction recovery programs and housing for homeless people. The organization also transports people and provides accommodations at temporary overnight warming shelters at its headquarters at 5440 N. Union Blvd., and churches around town when the temperature falls below 19 degrees.

We continue to see individuals actively seeking permanent housing but not necessarily accessing shelter, Oskin said.

Logistical and personal reasons for people not using shelters reflect how complex homelessness is, she said.

Weve had individuals decline to come inside even during dangerously low temperatures  which shows that having a bed available doesnt always mean the need is fully met, Oskin said. Until we better understand and address the barriers to engagement, its difficult to truly assess how may shelter, transitional or permanent housing options are needed.

The need seems apparent at Springs Rescue Mission, said President and CEO Travis Williams. The Christian organization operates a 15-acre campus with housing, three meals daily, employment services and other assistance for homeless adult men and women.

The site also includes a 450-bed shelter, which can expand to 600 people or more during bad weather, as additional floor space makes room for anyone who wants to come inside.

The shelter normally sees an average of 350 people a night in the summertime, but this year, Springs Rescue Mission has been averaging 425 a night, Williams said.

Weve been close to our stated capacity of 450, which is a lot of people for us in summer. Weve seen the growth not only in the shelter but also in our services.

The rescue mission also has faced recent budget cuts and staff layoffs. But its goal extends beyond beds, Williams said, to helping people get better physically, mentally and emotionally and spiritually.

Were constantly watching the numbers and the communitys needs, but really were making sure were staying focused on providing care one person at a time, to see folks experience the best life they can.
Six years after raising $US4.2 billion ($6.4 billion) in the most lucrative sale of crypto tokens to date, digital currency entrepreneurs Brendan Blumer and Kokuei Yuan are back for another public offering.

The two own a combined majority stake in crypto exchange Bullish, which raised $US1.1 billion at a $US5.4 billion valuation in an IPO on Wednesday, bringing their holdings to more than $US2 billion each. The companys shares climbed 84 per cent in its debut to close at $US68 in New York after earlier soaring as much as 219 per cent.

Brendan Blumer (centre) is the largest individual shareholder with a 30.1 per cent stake worth $US3 billion. Credit: Bloomberg

Co-founder and board member Blumer, 39, is the largest individual shareholder with a 30.1 per cent stake worth $US2.8 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Hes granted call options to third parties on about 5 per cent of his holdings, which could reduce the value of his position depending on the details of the arrangements, which werent disclosed in company filings.

Yuan, who serves on Bullishs board, owns a 26.7 per cent stake worth $US2.5 billion.
Scattered clouds were supposed to dot the skies above Highway 13 south of Craig Tuesday afternoon, but they were hardly visible beyond the distinct haze that had settled into the valley.

Ahead, the rolling hills of the Western Slope, beige and dotted with green brush, were visible only as silhouettes through the smoke. Few people were driving in either direction between Craig and its southern neighbor, Meeker; the roadway played host to more magpies than vehicles.

For the last week and a half, Colorados western region has been under threat from the Lee fire. Now the fifth largest recorded wildfire in state history, the blaze grew to nearly 117,000 acres Monday night, a significant uptick from its initial 700-acre estimation.

A lot of us (initially) came in and went OK, we can grab this, said Tyler Nathe, operations section chief with Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3, at a news conference in Meeker Tuesday afternoon. Then it made a 30,000-acre run in one day and we all took a step back.

The Lee fire has been different than others of its ilk, Nathe said. While many brush-based fires tend to lay down when the wind drops, the abundance of drought-stricken vegatation and a continuous, six-week-long red flag warning prolonged the blaze and made it more extreme than usual.

We havent seen this type of fire behavior and this type of fuel model for a long time, and maybe if ever, Nathe said. (Its) kind of unprecedented, regarding this type of fuel.

Directly southwest of Meeker  the area currently overtaken by the Lee fire  is home to a significant amount of Bureau of Land Management oil and gas infrastructure that officials believe has remained mostly intact amidst the fire, said BLM White River Field Office Manager Bill Mills at the news conference Tuesday.

Part of our permitting activity for oil and gas are design features for oil and gas pads, and what weve seen time and time again throughout this fire is that those design features have proven successful, Mills said. Well have to do an assessment when the fire is (gone), but what weve seen so far is that those design features have been very, very successful.

The response to the fire has generated a swath of resources from local, state and federal authorities. Multiple regional and county officials noted their collaboration on emergency efforts.

One representative from the state  Sam Parsons, agency administrator for the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control  was also present, noting both Colorados financial assistance and providing multiple helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to help fight the flames.

Additionally, Rio Blanco County Commissioner Doug Overton noted that Gov. Jared Polis emergency declaration allowed the affected areas to access federal funding to help with the mitigation and relief work. Overton also said that the county was working on bringing in a fiscal agent to provide financial aid to those affected by the fire, but that they would make a more official announcement with details after a contract had been signed.

Despite the wide range of resources helping combat the fires, Meeker nearly fell victim to the blaze just days ago.

Last week, the Lee fire jumped across Highway 13, moving from an area contained by a dozer line into an uncontained region less than a half mile south of the town.

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Most of the town had already self-evacuated due to the fires imminent threat, but structures along its south side were a stones throw away from the flames, officials said Tuesday.

Up to that point, crews had been using mostly indirect efforts  plowing dozer lines and burning vegetation around the fires perimeter  to help isolate the blaze from new sources of fuel, Nathe said. The strategy was based on a lack of slow-burning fuel in the area, and effectively worked to push the fire back into itself and ultimately burn out.

(The fuels) combined with the weather conditions create near-impossible conditions for us to do what we would normally in being effective and direct, Nathe said. Its a pretty challenging environment and it wants to move.

But with a part of the fire now in an area both uncontained and within striking distance of the town, responders used direct measures to keep the flames at bay while others worked to build a dozer line in the process, officials said.

A switch in the direction of the wind allowed crews to better quell the fire before it ever reached the town, officials added. Now, they no longer believe Meeker is under any remaining threat.

The area along Meeker is the only section of the Lee fire that has reached containment, which officials estimated at 6% Tuesday.

After fortifying the lines bordering Meeker in the days after the fire threatened the town, crews then turned their attention to the southwest end of the blaze, Nathe said. The winds had changed direction, and the fire was now moving in the southern direction toward Rifle.

The south end of the Lee fire is where personnel have been focusing their efforts for the past few days, Nathe said, with any new acreage being mostly the blaze filling in its own interior.

In the coming days, officials expect the winds to turn back in the northernmost direction toward Meeker. But with little fuel remaining in that direction, they are not concerned about the fires impacting the town again.

Were feeling really good about everything up here on this north end, so a couple days from now, whenever the weather decides to shift around and we have that wind coming back in here, I have no concerns about the community of Meeker, Nathe said. Some of what that will allow us to do down (south) as well is itll blow the fire back into itself, which helps us.

In total, the Lee fire has claimed three residential buildings and 12 other buildings so far, Rio Blanco County Sheriff Anthony Mazzola confirmed Tuesday. A total of 840 people were in the go evacuation zones  the most extreme evacuation protocol  at the height of the fire.

Its been amazing to watch the support of the town coming together, working together with our federal partners to fight these fires and with our state, Mazzola said. Its been wild, its been scary, but were a rural county. We bond together, we work together.
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 One day youre watching in awe as your roommate becomes a sudden pop sensation, the next youve found yourself hitched along for the ride. No, this is not the plot of Netflixs latest teen rom-com; this is Audrey Hoberts life. Last year, Hobert burst onto pop fans radars after co-writing seven tracks on Gracie Abrams hit album The Secret of Us, including the smash Thats So True. Abrams, her bestie since fifth grade, made sure the world knew Hoberts contributions: the two shared stage time, interviews and social media posts. Suddenly Hobert, whod never had any aspirations for making music, was on her own trajectory to pop stardom. After blowing up behind the scenes, Audrey Hobert, 26, has a debut album full of relatable pop bangers for outsiders. I had never written music before. Gracie and I were just living together at the time and, one day, started writing music. That was my intro to writing music, period, says Hobert, sprawled on a couch in her Los Angeles home as though this was a therapy session or Im Bella Freud. When she went on to promote it and tour it and be the busy person that she is, I just felt I wasnt done songwriting and thats when I took a stab at it by myself and wrote this album. As a stab, Hoberts debut album, Whos the Clown?, is a fatality. Led by throbbing single Sue Me  a guilt-free track about hooking up with your Bacardi-drinking ex, built around Hoberts detail-heavy, delightfully wordy syntax  and other sly tales from the frontlines of 20-something situationships, it might be the most relatable pop album this year (no matter how far removed you might be from its target group). I was never shocked by Gracies success because Ive known her for so long and that girl works so hard and it makes complete sense that shes getting this insane attention. But I dont think I ever had the thought of break me off a piece of that, says Hobert. I just ultimately feel like I dont know how this all happened. I just know that for eight months last year, I wrote viciously, and here we are.

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Hobert was born and raised in Los Angeles. Her father was a writer and producer for TV comedies including Scrubs, Community and The Middle, while her mother worked in the theatre. Her younger brother Malcolm Todd is also a musician. Initially, Hobert had aspirations of being a professional dancer. I danced 10 hours a week from the time I was eight till the end of high school. But the older you get, the more you realise its cutthroat and its probably not gonna work out. I think I gave up on those dreams around 13. Writing came naturally, though. She studied screenwriting at the New York Universitys Tisch School of the Arts, and had plans to follow in the family business. After graduating, she spent two seasons on the writing team of Nickelodeons The Really Loud House (a show her father produced). That job came in handy when I ended up meeting record labels to sign a deal, says Hobert. On that show, you were in a room where you were valuable if you had a good idea and knew how to get it across. It helped me in those big boardrooms with music people because I knew how to pitch myself as an artist. Growing up, Hobert was aware her family was tangentially involved in showbiz, but its all relative. I went to this private middle school, and I was surrounded by kids who had much more powerful parents in the industry. So I knew that my dad was involved, but it was small potatoes, says Hobert. It didnt feel like I was livin la vida loca, Hollywood style, or anything. It perhaps explains the aloof outsider perspective that pervades her music. Chateau is a song about going to a Grammys party, microdosing mushrooms, and hating on shallow celebrities. On Thirst Trap, shes frustrated that her feelings for a fun new crush are making her deeply boring and predictable. The term outsider resonates with me. In the books I read or the movies I watch, Im always drawn to the outsider character and Ive also felt on the outside often times in my life, she says. When it comes to the songs Ive written, my goal is just to be brutally honest about how I feel about a situation or a person or whatever. Comedy is central to Hoberts songwriting appeal. If her musical keystones  Kim Petras, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swifts 1989, slacker-poet MJ Lenderman  are part of the equation, so are her comic ones: Lena Dunham, Conner OMalley, Dan Licata, Nathan Fielder, and her dads favourites, Steve Martin and Brian Regan. I love funny people, and I love being funny. Its, like, my favourite thing to be, she says.

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In her songs, Hobert plays the stand-up comics trick of making her imperfections and insecurities empowering. On the moving Phoebe, a song about identifying with Lisa Kudrows character on the TV sitcom Friends, she casually sings about her struggles with body image and finding solace in the shows wacky outcast. I just found it funny that none of the three guys on the show are ever with Phoebe. Like, theyll be with Rachel or with Monica but never with her, just because shes the quirky girl. I really identified with her, just as an idea of something, says Hobert. I dont know how this all happened. I just know that for eight months last year, I wrote viciously, and here we are. Ive felt a lot in my life this struggle to feel physically beautiful, but Ive always known my worth on the inside. And the older you get, the less that feeling of physical unworthiness serves you, so obviously you want to reach that point as early as possible, like in your 20s, where youre just like, F it, Im entirely beautiful. Im proud of that song, and Im glad I got to talk about that feeling Ive had for a lot of my life. Hoberts very specific approach to songwriting comes at an opportune time. The pop industry is flailing, the powers that be seem to understand that whatever formula they mightve once had for producing hits is no longer working. Im reminded of the debate that emerged after Sabrina Carpenters Espresso went big, and people suddenly remembered that pop music can be weird and fun and break rules. Loading For four months last year, Hobert tried the industrys approach. I was in sessions, trying to write for other artists, and I knew immediately it wasnt for me, she says. I find that setting to be not conducive to the kind of writing I like to do for songs because theres a beat looping in the background, and the producer has dinner at six, and youre sitting across from someone whose head youre supposed to be in but youve only just met them. I really respect songwriters who can be in that setting and successfully write a big, amazing song, but Im not one of those people.

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Eating outHot & new Melbournes hottest dining pop-up is hidden in a synagogue and opens once a week Rintels Diner has operated out of the East Melbourne Synagogue since mid-May  and its booking out a month ahead for its hearty stews, home-style soups and unique atmosphere. Quincy Malesovas August 14, 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

In Australia and many other countries, younger generations are less religious than ever before, despite the best efforts of religious leaders. So whats the real secret to getting them back through the doors? If Rintels Diner is anything to go by, perhaps its food. Inside pop-up restaurant Rintels Diner, located at a synagogue in East Melbourne. Jason South The Thursday night pop-up, run by chef Gitai Ifergan and collaborator Babs Rapeport, has been operating out of the East Melbourne Synagogue since mid-May thanks to a deal with the resident rabbi, Dovid Gutnick. (Rapeport previously ran an art gallery in the same space.) Its regularly booked out a month ahead (even following an arson attack on the synagogue on July 4), though walk-ins early in the evening are welcome. Theres some congregation crossover, but most of the seats are filled by younger diners, from within and outside the Jewish community. They say theyre drawn by the restaurants DIY ethos, accessible pricing (at the time of writing, no dish costs more than $21), and a menu that highlights Jewish diaspora dishes, including the stew cholent, rarely seen on restaurant menus in Melbourne.

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Expect dishes like chicken, artichoke and olive tagine (front); cholent (slow-cooked beef stew); challah; and egg and onion dip. Jason South Ifergan was born in Israel to Moroccan and Polish parents and raised in Melbournes inner south, where many of the citys eastern European Jewish immigrants originally settled. He recalls going to places like Balaclava Deli, with fridges filled with Russian-style salads, dips and kosher goods seldom found north of the Yarra. Here, those influences show up in dishes such as egg and onion dip made from deeply caramelised onions folded with chopped egg and house-made mayo. Ive tried to take a bit of Carlisle Street and bring it here, Ifergan says. Rintels Diner owners Babs Rapeport (left) and chef Gitai Ifergan with Rabbi Dovid Gutnick. Jason South

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Diners enter via the side of the synagogue, leading into a modest dining hall typically used for bar and bat mitzvahs and other community events. Its rustic, dimly lit and unexpectedly romantic. Books line the walls, and candlelit, white-clothed tables are tucked into corners. The set-up feels both novel and nostalgic  a nod to old-school cultural clubs like Denmark House and the now-closed Hungarian community centre Korona Csarda, where food, identity and tradition have long intersected. It also echoes newer grassroots efforts like Pontian Club, a Greek canteen that was run out of a Brunswick hall before moving to a permanent Fitzroy address. Ifergan thinks the inner-city location adds to Rintels appeal. Doing this at a synagogue in Caulfield just wouldnt have the same feel to it. He also draws inspiration from New Yorks cholent culture: a Thursday night ritual built around a slow-cooked beef and potato stew traditionally prepared in advance of Shabbat. When the sabbath comes on Friday night, you cant use electricity, so you put it on before, leave it and enjoy it the next day, Ifergan says.

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Rintels cholent is made in bulk and served by the generous bowlful. A $2 slice of challah on the side is optional but encouraged. Theres also a meatless version that swaps beef for celeriac. Related Article Three family-run Middle Eastern restaurants with soul in spades Other weekly specials might include chicken gondi, a Persian dish of broth and dumplings made with chicken and chickpea flour, which Ifergan spices with the fragrant hawaij blend from Yemen. The whole operation is certified by Kosher Australia, though Ifergan admits that wasnt always the goal.  On a personal level, I just cant believe this is what Im doing, he says. Growing up, kosher was the lamest thing ever.

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While Rintels isnt intended as a long-term venture, its not going anywhere just yet. It feels sustainable, Ifergan says. We dont want to take it somewhere else  it wouldnt make sense anywhere else. Dinner Thursdays 488 Albert Street, East Melbourne (entry via side laneway), instagram.com/rintels.diner

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Review Eating outFitzroy These cheesy dumplings are pucks of pleasure (plus theyre topped with mini potato chips) Push past the orthodoxies at the decade-old Bar Liberty, where spirit infuses everything from the playlists to the legacy of cheesy, peppery dishes. Dani Valent July 20, 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

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1 / 7 Inside Fitzroys Bar Liberty. Chris Hopkins 2 / 7 Potato dumplings. Chris Hopkins 3 / 7 Sugarloaf cabbage. Chris Hopkins 4 / 7 Root vegetable tart. Chris Hopkins 5 / 7 Bar seating is available. Chris Hopkins 6 / 7 Flatbread with snail butter. Chris Hopkins 7 / 7 Bavarian cream. Chris Hopkins Previous Slide Next Slide Contemporary$$$$ Do restaurants have souls? Its a question I pondered during a recent meal at Bar Liberty. The nine-year-old wine bar isnt personality-driven, in the sense that theres an owner-patron you always see there, or a chef who made the food their own. You dont go to Bar Liberty for a particular dish, or even a cuisine. You arent rolling up for certain wines. You go there for a feeling, to connect with something like a soul. Of the four founders  Michael Bascetta, Banjo Harris Plane, Manu Potoi (all ex-Attica) and Casey Wall (an American chef who recently returned home after 15 years), only Potoi remains, now as sole owner. During the decade Bar Liberty has been pouring wine, making impeccable cocktails and serving share plates, Melbourne wine bar has become a genre, a semi-templated place for crudo, focaccia, fresh cheese and probably a signature martini. Related Article 11 of Melbournes best wine bars

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Im up for it; youll find me in those places, loving the olives, mortadella and vermouth. But if you want to push past the orthodoxies, you could visit Bar Liberty. (Yes, and Embla, Carnation Canteen and a few others, of course. Dont get mad.) Flatbread with snail butter. Chris Hopkins Zackary Furst, head chef since 2019, recently moved on to deepen his explorations of his Polish culinary heritage. He handed the baton to Douglas Hoxley, a Melbourne chef with experience at key restaurants including Cutler and Gimlet, and a year-long stint in London at nose-to-tail legend St John. Its good when you go away to find yourself and you do find yourself, Hoxley tells me on the phone. Although its the early days of his Bar Liberty custodianship, the signs are good. Finding himself means being able to mesh his ideas with Liberty staples, slowly stretching into the yonder. Soft, oily, sourdough flatbread has long been served with vintage shears for snipping into morsels. Hoxley offers snail butter  garlicky, mildly meaty and delicious  as a spread, gently making the case for the sustainable protein.

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Potato dumplings. Chris Hopkins An unwritten Liberty law means there must be a starchy, peppery, cheesy course. In Casey Walls day, it was bucatini cacio e pepe. Furst looked to Eastern Europe, making potato dumplings with a sauerkraut juice reduction. Hoxley has embraced the legacy, dressing springy, dimpled potato pucks with lemony pepper and pecorino sauce, adding crunch with tiny crisps of potato skin. You dont need to know any backstory to be lost in the pleasure of eating them. Sugarloaf cabbage is softened and burnt, smoky and punchy, creamy and textured; bonus loveliness comes from spring onion and kelp. A root-vegetable tart finds luxury in celeriac, brightness in sorrel, energy in kohlrabi. A flathead dish is a spin on buttery meuniere, jazzed with green pepper and anchored by Jerusalem artichokes, the fish brined, butterflied and cooked with keen skill. Bavarian cream. Chris Hopkins Dessert bavarois (kindly called Bavarian cream on the menu because buv-wa can be off-putting to pronounce) is soft-set and juiced with roasted rhubarb. A scattering of bee pollen brings an almost awkward complexity.

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Meanwhile, manager Ludovic Beauchamp-Chatel leads a team of knowledgeable, amenable professionals who make edgy, lesser-known wines (all organic, mostly biodynamic) feel fun and safe. If drinking is rock climbing, they are there suggesting the next foothold and belaying in case you slip and fall. Its a pleasure to be here, sitting at the bar, or in the backroom, or along the window facing Johnston Street, the hurriedly spray-painted and never updated Bar Liberty sign glowing like an endorsement of all the decisions that brought you to this moment. Bar seating is available. Chris Hopkins Is it soul? Bar Liberty makes me think of great footy clubs, immortalising heroes on imaginary honour rolls, handing over traditions implicitly and explicitly. Spirit is steeped in everything from the timber to the playlists to the flavours and, of course, the customers who bring their own romance and energy, resulting in a sprightly institution full of meaning and delight. Three more Fitzroy spots to try El Columpio The tacos are outstanding (Im a huge fan of the cactus and mushroom ones especially), but when youre wondering how to stay warm in winter, consider the pozole, a Mexican soup with white corn, chicken or pork, and fresh crunchy garnishes. Its wholesome and sustaining any time of day. 52 Johnston Street, Fitzroy, elcolumpio.com Crop Frankie Coxs Green-on has rebranded to Crop and expanded from Cremorne to Fitzroy. The build-your-own salad concept has carried over, and I love the Winter Miso option with sweet potato, red cabbage, green beans, seaweed crunch, rocket, barley and miso-ginger dressing  a lunch that will easily carry you through to dinner. 291 Smith Street, Fitzroy, cropkitchen.au Maven by Morgan When Morgan Hipworth was a teen, he launched doughnut brand Bistro Morgan. Now all grown up, hes opened Maven, a modern Mediterranean restaurant that serves signature cocktails (such as the Split Decision with banana-infused rum and roasted peanut sherry). There are separate menus for vegans, halal diners, and anyone avoiding garlic and onion. 402 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, maven.melbourne Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

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Just days ago, Gatto chaired a meeting between the CFMEU and subcontractors on the Big Build  despite the CFMEU administration declaring Gatto persona non grata in March. The meeting involved two high-ranking union officials, Gatto and the man who had engaged the gangland figure, Tony Ciccone, who runs Cycon Civil, a subcontractor on many of Labors biggest infrastructure projects. Former high-ranking Mongols bikie Tyrone Little Ty Bell. It was called after the CFMEU made inquiries about Cycon Civils dealings with an Indigenous labour-hire firm, multiple sources said. In a statement, a spokesperson for the unions administrator, Mark Irving, SC, lashed out at the use of industry fixers, saying the administration of the CFMEU believes that there needs to be a fundamental change in the role of industrial fixers and industrial mediators in the construction industry.

Many of these so called fixers are enforcers or use the tactics of extortion and intimidation, he said. Loading These tactics must be stamped out. The administration is determined to ensure the union is not subject to employers improper use of fixers as has occurred in the past. Tony Ciccone declined to respond to specific questions about why Gatto had attended his meeting with the CFMEU or whether his company was facing questions about its dealings with Indigenous workers. But he said in a text message that accusations of wrongdoing by his company were incorrect and junk mail.

Gatto, a fixture of Melbournes underworld scene who beat a murder charge during the gangland wars, has previously denied all wrongdoing but did not respond to a request for comment. In March, the federal police raided a Melbourne accountant seeking evidence of payments made by construction firms to Gatto or other gangland figures to obtain union peace. The revelations raise fresh questions for the Allan and Albanese governments about the effectiveness of their construction sector clean-up, as well as their response to Irvings calls in July for state and federal governments to focus on crime and corruption across the industry because there is much, much more to be done. Corporate records reveal Derek Christopher started Atlas Consulting and Mediation in late May, nine months after he was sacked from the union after this masthead revealed the influx of bikies and gangland bosses into the industry. Christopher also remains the target of a long-running police investigation into suspicions he may have received corrupt benefits from building companies in the form of free renovations.

He has not been charged and there is no suggestion he is guilty of any crime, a finding that can only be made by a court, just that he is a target of a long-standing police probe. Multiple industry and union sources said Christopher was seeking to leverage his union and industry connections to help construction firms win work on large Victorian projects. Joe Myles (left) and Joel Leavitt. In a statement, Christopher said his business does not partake in industrial relations but rather specialises in business growth development, strategic growth of future technologies, social media platforms and mentoring. I have a right as an Australian to get on and provide for my family, he said.

Sacked CFMEU delegate and ex-Mongols bikie chief Tyrone Bell has, like Christopher, offered construction industry firms advice on how to navigate Victorias construction sector and union while it is under administration. Multiple industry sources said Bell had been dealing with former CFMEU organiser Jaxson Mahy, although there is no suggestion this has been successful. Bells key client is building firm Markscon. Construction industry and CFMEU insiders have also confirmed that Joel Leavitt  a notorious bikie standover man and former CFMEU health and safety representative on Labors Big Build projects  has launched a labour-hire business and has been operating in an industrial estate near the airport. The labour-hire firm would seek work on infrastructure and construction projects across Victoria, sources said.

Meanwhile, ex-union vice president Joe Myles, who is also accused of bringing bikies into union positions and onto Labors Big Build, has launched Myles Ahead Advisory. Myles continues to enjoy the loyalty of a small number of serving delegates and organisers, although this masthead could not confirm whether his new business had won work. The resurfacing of supposedly exiled union operatives poses a major challenge for Irving and Victorian union boss Zach Smith in reforming the union amid resistance from powerful internal factions loyal to ex-union leaders. Irvings purge of union figures with links to the gangland is also incomplete.
Hundreds of Victorian Catholic school principals are in open revolt against church education authorities over their approach to pay talks with the sectors 30,000 teachers.

The pay row between teachers at the states 493 Catholic schools and their employers is set to intensify in the coming weeks when the main workplace union, the Independent Education Union, lodges a pay claim worth 37 per cent over three years.

Victorian Catholic Education Authority boss Elizabeth Labone said the unions insistence on single-interest bargaining was delaying a pay rise for its members. Credit: Flavio Brancaleone

The teachers, who say they are paid up to 13 per cent less than their interstate counterparts, also want a $5000 sign-on bonus for each educator, regular retention bonuses worth 5 per cent of their wage and a 17 per cent superannuation contribution.

The present workplace deals expire in December, but the two sides cant even agree on the basis for negotiations. The employers umbrella group, the Victorian Catholic Education Authority (VCEA), has insisted that the 34 separate church-linked entities that run schools in the state bargain separately with their individual workforces.
Swap tax priorities

Ross Gittins (PM cries poor as gas riches go untaxed, 13/8) has the right idea. Lets swap our tax system around. Tax the oil and gas industry heavily and provide free, or much cheaper higher education and properly fund healthcare. And let Treasurer Jim Chalmers be prime minister instead of Anthony Albanese.

Katriona Fahey, Alphington Blooming disaster

The Southern Ocean off the coast of Victor Harbor in South Australia and the surrounding coastlines are some of the most beautiful parts of the world. Plentiful aquatic wildlife, clean unpolluted water and jetties (some almost a kilometre long) extending out to fish, swim or take in the views.

The algal bloom that has befallen this place is nothing short of a disaster. With summer around the corner, the situation could get a lot worse with a lot more dead fish, birds and animals washing up on the beach.

I dont know how much worse it can be before the government formally declares a natural disaster. If it was Sydney Harbour or Port Phillip Bay, Im sure they already would have. My heart goes out to the people who live there.

Russell Brims, Bentleigh East Follow NZ example

A school that charges $9440 is a not low-fee (Private but low-fee schools drive boom, 13/8). A school like St Mary Mackillop Catholic School in New Zealand that charges $NZ1016 ($927) is.

The explanation? New Zealand has a sensible school funding model, under which non-government schools are almost fully funded if they charge very low fees, whereas Australia has an irrational and unjust model that ignores school fees in allocating funding and uses median parental income instead. It is the only means test that is applied to an entity other than the one being funded. It is as ridiculous as adjusting the age pension not according to the pensioners income, but according to the median income of everyone who attends the pensioners U3A class.

The Gonski model is designed to help well-off families leave the government sector while forcing poor families to stay in it unless they attend a school full of poor families. It segregates students by wealth and thus cultural capital, undermining overall educational achievement. It needs to be replaced by a rational model  like New Zealands.

Chris Curtis, Hurstbridge Why the secrecy, premier? Asked if there was any reason not to make public the findings of a taxpayer-funded report, completed in 2022, on how laws governing the states property market, including underquoting, could be improved, Jacinta Allans response is classic deflective spin  the report is a cabinet document.

The premier is more focused on acting now, leading the nation in cracking down on illegal underquoting.

The report may well be a cabinet document, but if as Allan claims, she is focused on acting now and leading the nation in tackling illegal underquoting, then she would put in place the mechanisms for releasing such a document and act now on its findings, rather than as it seems, burying them.

It makes one wonder, though, if the reason the report has apparently been shelved is that it unfavourably exposes those to whom, for far too long, Victorian governments have been slavishly beholden  the influence, financial sway, and vested interests, of property and development.

Deborah Morrison, Malvern East

Imagine being the vendor

The easiest way for house buyers to understand the auction system is to imagine themselves as a vendor. Would they sell their house or land under a system that achieves a winning bid at the highest price or would they prefer a system that does the opposite?

Murray Horne, Cressy A quote for peace

Your correspondent (Letters, 13/8) quotes Golda Meir: Peace will come when the Arabs love their children more than they hate us. There is another quote from Meir, made in 1969, two years after the Six-Day War: There was no such thing as Palestinians.

There lies the root of the problem we are dealing with today. Just as Britain tried to pretend that Australia was terra nullius, so Israel from the beginning wanted to pretend that Palestinians had no connection with the land on which they had lived for centuries.

Lets change that quote to: Peace will come when we value all lives equally and recognise all peoples rights to live on their lands.

If that can be done, that might end the 77 years of aggression.

Marg DArcy, Rye Political amnesia

In admonishing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for recognising a Palestinian state, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also criticises him for going against decades of bipartisan policy support in this matter.

Funnily enough, Ley made no such remarks when Scott Morrison dumped bipartisan policy and recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel even though that matter flew in the face of the United Nations and world opinion. A forgetful memory perhaps or just plain double standards?

Graeme Gardner, Reservoir The other cautionary tale

Columnist Jeremy Leibler (13/8) correctly states that two decades ago, Israel withdrew its soldiers and dismantled settlements in Gaza, but he is being disingenuous by calling it a unilateral disengagement.

In 2005, Israel moved its soldiers from inside Gaza to the border and surrounded it, completely controlling Gazas sea and land borders, and also its air space. It continued restricting the movement of people and goods, something it imposed on Palestinians in the 1990s, and in 2007 imposed a complete blockade on the movement of goods and people in and out of the Gaza Strip. Yes, what happened in Gaza is a cautionary tale, but not what Leibler would have us believe: Control of Gaza was not transferred to Gazans in 2005 but simply exercised by Israel in a different way. The cautionary tale is that if you want to offer people autonomy and a foundation for peace, dont blockade them and keep them in what former UK prime minister David Cameron calls an open-air prison.

Anastasios Moralis, Ormond Recognition a first step

If nobody does anything because nobody else is doing anything, then nothing gets done. Recognition of Palestine is the first step to getting something done.

Michael Meszaros, Alphington

The West is dreaming

After planning the October 7, 2023, slaughter and the capture of Israeli civilians, constructing kilometres of concrete tunnels, acquiring vast amounts of weapons and sacrificing the lives of thousands of Palestinians, Western powers, including Australia, will recognise a Palestinian state while Hamas happily relinquishes its control of Gaza: Really?

Henry Herzog, St Kilda East Only part miracle

The resurrection of the long-dead Commodore 64 computer (Commodore 64 makeover marks return, 11/8) is a technical miracle especially in bringing it up to a current standard. The problem is, who wants to drive a Ferrari that looks like a VW?

Dennis Fitzgerald, Box Hill Not wedded to the dress

Here is a little-known fact (For the modern wedding, 13/8). You dont have to buy a wedding dress. Yes, as non-conformist as that sounds, be mutinous and dare to be different.

My friends daughter got married in a ball gown. Not only did she look beautiful on the big day, she could actually wear the dress again.

Ann Banham, Williamstown Not a king, even for a day

Donald Trump  not my king.

Tom Stafford, Wheelers Hill Not rapt with AFL

What a waste of money by the AFL to pay for Snoop Dogg, an American rap artist, to perform at the Grand Final.

Why not use Australian artists for a lot less, and the AFL could donate the remainder to Australian charities.

A win for local artists and charities.

Geoff Wenham, Malvern East

Not riding the gravy train

Does that mean I wont have to endure Whos gunna make the gravy? constantly on repeat next Christmas? (Joes dead, whos going to make the gravy?, 12/8) One lives in hope.

Barry Greer, Balnarring Tied up in knots

The easy Sudoku on Wednesday wasnt.

George Houlder, Cambrian Hill Credit: Matt Golding AND ANOTHER THING Trump

Donald Trump, who is keen on land annexation when it suits him, had best be very careful that when he meets Vladimir Putin, the Russian president does not make a claim on Alaska on the basis of historical ownership of the area.

Loucille McGinley, Brighton East

Trump has called out the National Guard in Washington, DC, for what hes decided is a crisis in law and order. Strange priorities: this is the man who refused to send in the National Guard when a mob broke into the Capitol.

Tim Durbridge, Brunswick Its time for the United States to stop funding Israel and make it a level playing field. What has Israel got over the US that they keeping funding them?

Rita Reid, Port Melbourne Furthermore

Take the beat from The Beatles, add some rock from the Stones, sweeten with a little Pearl Jam and voila, an AI musical hodgepodge! (Golding cartoon, 13/8).

Greg Curtin, Nunawading The only song Billy-Bob Dylan forgot was the ode to Trump, Mr Tangerine Man.

Bryan Fraser, St Kilda West Snoop Dogg doesnt sing. He talks and shouts. That fits in well with the AFL. When teams win, they gather in a huddle, but they dont sing. They shout the words of the club song.

Kevin Rugg, Beaumaris
Paradoxically, such a proposal would not recoup as much money for taxpayers as removing deductions for single property investors, who ultimately cost the government more to subsidise. Loading The Australian Council of Social Services wants to phase out negative gearing entirely and halve the 50 per cent capital gains tax discount over five years. Meanwhile, the Grattan Institute recommends reducing the tax discount to 25 per cent and curbing negative gearing so that rental losses could no longer be offset against wage and salary income. Treasurer Jim Chalmers dismissed any changes to negative gearing or the capital gains tax discount in an interview on ABC News Breakfast on Thursday morning. He said the government was instead focusing on delivering more supply to help housing affordability. About 72 per cent of all investors own one property, ATO data shows, which some experts believe adds to rental insecurity. Penalising large landlords and exempting small ones is a bad idea, says Peter Tulip, chief economist at the Centre of Independent Studies.

Australia has a terrible problem with rental insecurity  huge numbers of people will have been evicted because their landlord has decided to sell the property. This is a much smaller problem in Europe or the United States, because their rental stock is owned by big corporations, who are happy for you to stay there for decades. We have the wrong landlords, and ACTU wants to make that problem worse. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has ruled out any changes to negative gearing or the capital gains tax in an interview with the ABC on Thursday. Credit: Oscar Colman Independent economist Saul Eslake says keeping negative gearing benefits to just one property would only affect 29 per cent of investors, meaning most people who have a negatively geared property would continue to have it under the ACTU proposal. Menzies Research Centres 2024 research found 18 per cent of negatively geared investors are trade union members, and 65 per cent of negatively geared residential property investors had a taxable income of $120,000 or less. Negative gearing is used by 27,600 nurses and 28,000 teachers.

Davies says while it may be more politically palatable to target large investors, it would make more sense to remove negative gearing altogether. If the goal is to make housing more affordable, this wont make much difference to affordability, he says. His 2024 paper argues that access to the tax breaks should be conditional on minimum five-year fixed-term leases, one rent increase and inspection per lease period, dwelling quality, and below-market rent. Tulip agrees that tax concessions for investors are unimportant to housing affordability. Several good researchers have estimated their effect on affordability in different ways, and they find their effect is tiny  between 1 and 4 per cent. He says there is scope for amendments to the investor taxes.

The 1999 Ralph Review suggested the capital gains tax discount to promote enterprise and risk taking, and my view is that applies more strongly to investment in shares or other business investment than real estate, where the huge capital gains accrued by landowners arent done so for any sacrifice or effort on their part, he said. Loading Eslake says people should not be allowed to offset excess interest against their wage and salary income, and should instead carry it forward as a deduction against the capital gains tax liability when they sell [their property]. He rubbished claims that eliminating negative gearing would make affordability worse. If landlords were to sell their investment priorities, who would they sell to? First home buyers or other owner-occupiers trading up, he says. Yes, it would reduce the supply of rental housing, but it would also reduce the demand for rental housing by the same amount. Eslake says, despite what they say publicly, politicians and most Australians dont want the problem of housing affordability to be solved.
The daughter of a woman who was dragged 300 feet during a hit-and-run is calling on Colorado lawmakers for change after the case for the former suspect accused of killing her mother was dismissed due to competency issues.

Joel Lang, 41, was facing homicide charges related to the death of Kristy Kerst, 47, on Nov. 4. According to court records, Lang struck Kerst's vehicle while leaving a McDonald's in Monument. When Kerst and a family member hopped out of the car to confront Lang, he allegedly fled, running over Kerst and dragging her underneath his vehicle.

According to his arrest affidavit, Lang told investigators after being detained that he knew she was under the vehicle and that the "continual driving and dragging" of Kerst would kill her.

"I, personally, am terrified. My sense of safety has been shattered not only because of what happened to my mom, but also knowing that her killer is out there," said Britany Visage.

During multiple court hearings, it was revealed Lang suffered a brain injury that affected his cognitive function when he was 5 years old. Two mental health evaluators called to the stand by the prosecution and defense respectively said Lang was incompetent to stand trial, noting there's a chance he could be restored, but it would be difficult.

Despite this, 4th Judicial District Judge Samuel Evig ruled on June 30 that Lang is incompetent to stand trial, and that he is not restorable, saying the difference between it being "possible" and "substantially likely" for restoration is "as wide as a gulf."

"It (the ruling) was really devastating and heartbreaking, and, honestly, kind of disgusting. This is a man in his own words saying, 'I know I hit her, I knew I was dragging her, I just had to get out of there,'" Visage said.

Visage and other families who had violent criminal cases dismissed due to competency rulings have created a petition calling for legislation surrounding competency in court to be amended or repealed.

With the help of organizers from Colorado Parents Advocacy Group, Visage and other families took to the Colorado Court of Appeals in Denver Tuesday to demand lawmakers make a change to House Bill 24-1034 and other related legislation to adult competency to stand trial.

Per HB24-1034, a case must be dismissed if there isn't a "substantial probability" that the defendant could attain competency with the help of restoration services within the "reasonably foreseeable future."

"I'm not a lawyer, and I don't have education in the justice system. But as a citizen, what does 'reasonably foreseeable future' mean?" she said. "That can mean something completely different to me than it does a judge."

John Kellner, a former district attorney for Arapahoe County, wrote an opinion piece published in The Gazette about competency in the judicial system, saying the Lang case exposes a "glaring hole" in state law.

He told The Gazette in an interview that Colorado law needs to change so that it's not an automatic dismissal when someone is deemed incompetent and can't be restored for the "foreseeable future." Instead, Kellner wants to see a judge have a "range of options" to decide what's appropriate for a case.

But an issue is the lack of bedding and other resources to house people who need restoration, according to the former district attorney.

"The real answer here is that we need to seriously expand access to mental health resources, and that includes expanding the Colorado state mental health hospitals so they have more in-patient beds for defendants deemed incompetent," Kellner said.

In his opinion piece, Kellner criticizes HB 24-1034, saying it pushes more incompetent defendants out of jail into outpatient facilities to help ease the backlog.

Elijah Caudill, 24, was released from jail in Denver in November 2024 with the assistance of a state program designed to connect offenders with outpatient mental health services. Two months after his release, he was accused of stabbing four people over two days in downtown Denver. Two people were killed.

Kellner points to this example as one of many as to how current laws make Colorado less safe.

"The push among state lawmakers is trying to get more people out of custody. That's a reaction because we don't have enough in-custody beds. So, you see (lawmakers) taking a much greater risk by releasing them," Kellner said. "It's like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound."

While Visage said losing her mom has been the most difficult event she's experienced in her life, standing up for the injustice has been easy because of the community support in Colorado Springs.

But she hasn't been feeling that same support up north in the halls of the Capitol.

"I have been very disappointed so far," Visage said of Gov. Jared Polis.

To Visage, the governor has just been "piggybacking" on statements from 4th District Attorney Michael Allen, who has been vocal about a need for change.

"He's been trying to push this narrative that he's passing (other) laws like gun laws to make Colorado safer, and I appreciate those things, (but) it feels like a slap in the face because he's not talking about what we want to talk about," Visage said.

Allen commented on the Lang case at the time of the ruling, blaming state lawmakers and Polis for its outcome. He said in a news release that current competency legislation is a "tangled statutory web" that lets people deemed incompetent who are charged with murder, no matter how "depraved and evil" the crime, to walk free.
Athens, Greece: Wildfires have intensified across southern Europe, with a round-the-clock battle to protect the perimeter of Greeces third-largest city and at least three deaths reported in Spain, Turkey and Albania.

Outside the Greek port city of Patras, firefighters struggled to protect homes and agricultural facilities as flames tore through pine forests and olive groves. Tall columns of flames rose behind apartment blocks on the outskirts of the city, while dozens of vehicles were torched as flames swept through a nearby impound lot.

A firefighter and men try to control the fire approaching a house during a wildfire in Patras city, western Greece. Credit: AP

A man protects his face from the smoke as he walks by the fire approaching houses during a wildfire in Patras. Credit: AP

Today is another very difficult day with the level of fire risk remaining very high across many parts of the country, Fire Service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakoyiannis said on Wednesday, Athens time. At least 15 firefighters were hospitalised or received medical attention for burns, smoke inhalation or exhaustion, he added.
The Israeli military says it struck and killed a group of Gaza militants disguised as aid workers, using a car displaying the logo of an international charity.

Five armed terrorists were using a car with World Central Kitchen branding, the IDF said, adding that it carried out the airstrike after confirming with the US-based charity that the men had no affiliation with it and that the car did not belong to the group.

We strongly condemn anyone posing as World Central Kitchen or other humanitarians, as this endangers civilians and aid workers, the charity said in a statement.

The Israeli military shared video footage showing several men in yellow vests  in an attempt to conceal their activity and avoid being targeted  standing around a vehicle near Deir al-Balah, in central Gaza. The charitys logo was on the roof.
About Toyota

Toyota Motor Corporation is a multinational corporation headquartered in Japan, and is currently the world's largest automaker. According to the 2008 Fortune Global 500, toyota is the fifth largest company in the world by revenue.

In 1934, while still a department of Toyota Industries, it created its first product Type A engine and in 1936 its first passenger car the Toyota AA. The company was eventually founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937 as a spinoff from his father's company Toyota Industries to create automobiles. Toyota currently owns and operates Lexus and Scion brands and has a majority shareholding stake in Daihatsu Motors, and minority shareholdings in Fuji Heavy Industries, Isuzu Motors, and Yamaha Motors. The company includes 522 subsidiaries.

Toyota is headquartered in Aichi, Nagoya and in Tokyo. In addition to manufacturing automobiles, Toyota provides financial services through its division Toyota Financial Services and also creates robots. Toyota Industries and Finance divisions form the bulk of the Toyota Group, one of the largest conglomerates in the world.

In 1933, Toyoda Automatic Loom Works created a new division devoted to the production of automobiles under the direction of the founder's son, Kiichiro Toyoda. Kiichiro Toyoda had traveled to Europe and the United States in 1929 to investigate automobile production and had begun researching gasoline-powered engines in 1930. Toyoda Automatic Loom Works was encouraged to develop automobile production by the Japanese government, which needed domestic vehicle production partly due to the worldwide money shortage and partly due to the war with China. In 1934, the division produced its first Type A Engine, which was used in the first Model A1 passenger car in May 1935 and the G1 truck in August 1935. Production of the Model AA passenger car started in 1936. Early vehicles bear a striking resemblance to the Dodge Power Wagon and Chevrolet, with some parts actually interchanging with their American originals.

Although the Toyota Group is best known today for its cars, it is still in the textile business and still makes automatic looms, which are now computerized, and electric sewing machines which are available worldwide.

During the Pacific War (World War II) the company was dedicated to truck production for the Imperial Japanese Army. Because of severe shortages in Japan, military trucks were kept as simple as possible. For example, the trucks had only one headlight on the center of the hood. The war ended shortly before a scheduled Allied bombing run on the Toyota factories in Aichi.

After the war, commercial passenger car production started in 1947 with the model SA. In 1950, a separate sales company, Toyota Motor Sales Co., was established (which lasted until July 1982). In April 1956, the Toyopet dealer chain was established. The following year, the Crown became the first Japanese car to be exported to the United States and Toyota's American and Brazilian divisions, Toyota Motor Sales Inc. and Toyota do Brasil S.A., were also established.

Toyota began to expand in the 1960s with a new research and development facility, a presence in Thailand was established, the 10 millionth model was produced, a Deming Prize and partnerships with Hino Motors and Daihatsu were also established. The first Toyota built outside Japan was in April 1963, at Port Melbourne in Australia. By the end of the decade, Toyota had established a worldwide presence, as the company had exported its one-millionth unit.

With high gas prices and a weak US economy in the summer of 2008, Toyota reported a double-digit decline in sales for the month of June, similar to figures reported by the Detroit Big Three. For Toyota, these were attributed mainly to slow sales of its Tundra pickup, as well as shortages of its fuel-efficient vehicles such as the Prius, Corolla and Yaris. In response, the company has announced plans to idle its truck plants, while shifting production at other facilities to manufacture in-demand vehicles.
Summer-time recreationalists have had their wallets hit hard over the last three weeks if theyve parked in one of the no parking zones around the summit of Guanella Pass outside Georgetown.

In an email to The Denver Gazette on Tuesday, early ticket data collected from the Clear Creek County Sheriffs Office shows its community enforcement officer has written 37 tickets on Guanella Pass since July 24 (signs installed July 23) and each ticket written was at least $87.50, with some tickets being even more if there was more than one violation.

At a minimum, thats $3,237.50 worth of tickets for vehicles parked where they should not.

One of our deputies also patrolled the pass on Sunday, Aug 10, Strategic Communication Manager Jennifer Fulton said. He wrote approximately 20 tickets that day, for the same minimum amount.

It seems many visitors are ignoring the signage and a few, who have gotten tickets, remarked that they thought it was OK to park there because they saw others parked along the roadway too, Fulton said.

But the responses Ive seen on social media have been positive, she said. I have not heard of any complaints, but I may not be aware of them (all).

Featured Local Savings

As access to nearby fourteeners Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky continues through late summer and the upcoming aspens leaf peeping season starts, both Clear Creek and Park counties are planning to do the following to help mitigate traffic and parking issues during leaf-peeping weekends:

Additional patrols will start. Three law enforcement officials will be on each side of the pass and as follows: one stationed at each entrance; the beginning of Guanella Pass Road at Georgetown in Clear Creek County and U.S. Highway 285/Geneva Road in Park County, and two who are mobile on both Guanella Pass Road. and Geneva Road (Clear Creek County will have two mobile patrols and Park County will have two mobile patrols).

Vehicles parked blocking the roadway will be towed to ensure access at all times for emergency vehicles.

Additional no parking signage will be added for leaf-changing season. No parking will be enforced and illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed.

If the traffic volume warrants, Clear Creek and/or Park County will temporarily close access at the entrances to ensure the roadway on both sides remains accessible for emergency vehicles. These closures would be periodic and temporary; the roadway would be reopened after a sufficient amount of vehicles have exited the pass. (We anticipate these closures would only occur during weekend days of the two peak weekends, if at all, the spokesperson said.)

The town of Georgetown is also planning for additional traffic control to ensure town streets dont become too congested with vehicles waiting to access the pass or exiting from the pass.

Residents, campers, and hunters will be allowed access to the pass in the event of temporary closures.

A news conference is planned for 10 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 10 at the Guanella Pass Summit, in conjunction with Park County, USFS, CDOT, and Georgetown, to announce the traffic management and parking enforcement plans.
The Trump administration has told Colorados Congressional delegation it plans to reopen the shuttered Hudson Correctional Facility as an immigration detention center.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Denver in Weld County, the Hudson Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison that closed a decade ago.

Hudson has the flexibility to manage a wide range of offenders of different classification levels, said officials from the Geo Group in documents submitted to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in a bid for the contract. Geo Group operates ICE processing facilities.

With four distinct housing units, Hudsons design plan can simultaneously accommodate different detainee groups, including both male and female detainees, after some minor modifications to the fencing, they said.

The prison was built in 2009 and held inmates from Alaska until 2014, when it was closed. It has space for about 1,250 inmates.

Geo officials told ICE in February that the company could, depending on urgency and the specifics, begin accepting detainees in a matter of months.

They reported that the facility has been very well maintained.

Hudson Town Manager Bryce Lange did not respond to an email or phone call seeking comment on Tuesday. An emailed request to Mayor Joe Hammock and the city council also went unanswered.

Located on the front range, the city is named for the town company, Hudson City Land and Improvement Co.

The prison is operated by the GEO Group while the Highlands REIT Inc.  a real estate investment firm  owns it.

Neither Geo nor the Highlands REIT Inc. officials responded Tuesday to an inquiry from The Denver Gazette.

In an email, Councilmember Zach Reyes said the town has not been formally approached over potentially re-opening the facility as an ICE center.

"I cannot speak for the rest of the councilmembers whether they are in support or against. In the long run. The town has minimal say in what the owners of the property do with the property. The only thing the town can enforce are code requirements set forth by the ordinances currently in effect," Reyes said. "Foreseeable impacts include but are not limited to: increased strain on public utilities, traffic, and possible local job creation. Without a formal site plan submitted to staff, this is all theoretical."

ICE documents obtained by the ACLU in a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) show federal officials were considering at least six potential sites to expand ICEs footprint in Colorado.

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Its unclear whether ICE is still looking at multiple facilities.

Federal officials declined to say.

In a statement to The Denver Gazette, ICE officials said the need for additional bedspace would be driving any decisions.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements enhanced enforcement operations and routine daily operations have resulted in a significant number of arrests of criminal aliens that require greater detention capacity, an ICE spokesperson said in an email. While we cannot confirm individual pre-decisional conversations, we can confirm that ICE is exploring all options to meet its current and future detention requirements.

During a weeklong operation last month, ICE agents arrested 243 immigrants alone in the Denver metro area, as part of the Trump administrations stepped-up immigration enforcement.

The ACLU said many of the proposed sites  including Hudson  have not been operational for years.

Among the facilities identified were:

 Huerfano County Correctional Center.

 Cheyenne Mountain Center in Colorado Springs.

 The Baptiste Migrant Detention Facility in La Junta.

 The Colorado Springs Migrant Detention Facility in Colorado Springs.

The Migrant Detention Facility is a secure facility owned by the Baptiste Group that was lasted used as skilled nursing facility in November 2024, federal documents show.

In addition to Hudson, the Geo Group also runs the Cheyenne Mountain Center, a 700-bed facility in Colorado Springs that was originally designed in 2005 as a reentry facility for the State of Colorado until closing in 2020.

According to agency documents, the GEO Group operates 18 facilities that are under contract to provide services for ICE across the country.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, the GEO Group operates private prisons and mental health facilities in seven U.S. states, Australia, South Africa and the United Kingdom. The company runs the Aurora Contract Detention Facility, which has a capacity of 1,532 people.
Bedroom Jihadis become threatfor security agencies in J&K





SRINAGAR :

SECURITY agencies in Jammu and Kashmir are grappling with a new and insidious threat in the form of bedroom jihadis -- people who manipulate social media from the safety of their homes to spread misinformation and incite communal discord, officials said. This kind of enemy, far removed from the traditional armed terrorists, is at the heart of a sophisticated cross-border effort to destabilise the region, the officials said.

An in-depth investigation has uncovered a network of social media handles, believed to be controlled by terror groups and their sympathisers in Pakistan, that have been actively intruding into local digital spaces, disseminating inflammatory content and propaganda with the clear objective of creating sectarian clashes and unrest in the Kashmir valley. After years of fighting armed terrorists, security agencies have been facing this hidden enemy in which these new-age jihadis use computers and smartphones to wage war from just about anywhere, spreading rumours and influencing youths, an official in the know of the developments said. The trend emerged in 2017 but ended after an effective crackdown with curbs on the Internet post abrogation of the special status of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
DHARMASTHALA M ASS G RAVE SECRET RAVE SECRET Four-member NHRC team launches probe





MANGALURU :

A FOUR-member team from NHRChasarrivedinBelthangady taluk and on Tuesday launched a probe into the allegations of mass secret burials in Dharmasthala. Initiated by the NHRC on its own, the probe involves visits to criticallocalinstitutions,including the Gram Panchayat office, the local police station, the Dharmasthala templepremises, and theSIT (SpecialInvestigation Team) office. During initial consultations, theNHRC team,headed by Senior Superintendent of PoliceYuvaraj, gathered records of unnatural death cases spanning decades. Sanitation workers and other relevant individuals have provided statements to support the investigation.

The inquiry is expected to span four to ive days, according to the police.Awitness, previously a sanitation worker, claimed and asserted he was forced to bury numerous bodiesmany of them women and minorsover several years. SIT TO USE GPR TECHNOLOGYFORSITESCAN:THESpecial Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged burial of bodies in Dharmasthala in Dakshina Kannada district has been conducting a site examination at spot number 13 using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology.According tosources, the SIT has deployed a highcapacity drone equipped withradar imaging to scan the location and detect any objectsburied underground. The radarwill provide live images of subsurface anomalies. The inspection is being led by SIT chief PranabMohanty, who arrived inMangaluru earlier on Tuesdaybefore proceeding to the SIToffice in Belthangady.

Mohanty, accompanied by SIT officialsandtheAssistantCommissioner, is likely to visit the site alongwith the complainant and hislegal counsel. Officials said the GPR examination is being carried out in thepresenceof thecomplainantandhis lawyer to ensure transparency. The move is expected to helpuncover crucial evidencerelatedto the case. The SIT has identifiedspotnumber13asakeylocation in its ongoing probe, andinvestigators believe the radarscan could provide significantleads in resolving the matter
IDBI Bank employees oppose privatisation





Business Reporter :

A LARGE number of bank employees staged demonstrations opposing the sale of IDBI Bank to private players on Monday afternoon at Samvidhan Chowk, Nagpur. The bank employees also protested against the disinvestment in Regional Rural Bank and 100 per cent FDI in insurance sector. On the occasion, Suresh Bobhate, General Secretary, EMBEA said that the Government had planned to sell majority of the equity holding of 95 per cent held by both the Government and LIC. After the proposed disinvestment, the Government will be left with 15.24 per cent and LIC with 18.76 per cent, i.e. both together will have a holding of 34%.

This means that 66 per cent of the capital of IDBI will go into the hands of private investor. S P Tiwari, President EMBEA elaborated that the Government was starving public sector banks of the required capital and human resources through disinvestment and proposed privatisation. Placing such a huge network of bank branches, infrastructure and assets in the hands of private enterprises may turn out to be an irrational move. It is not clear whether privatisation brings efficiency or reduces associated risks as compared to public sector banks. Innumerable private banks have failed, thus challenging the notion that only private banks are efficient, he pointed out.

The demonstration was led by Jaiwant Gurway, Chairman of EMBEA and Chendil Iyer, Secretary of EMBEA.While,Vilas Lanjewar of IDBI Bank raised slogans against privatisation of banks. Shyam Pimpalkar of IDBI Bank, requested everyone to be united in the fight against privatisation. The All India Strike against privatisation of IDBI Bank was called by United Forum of IDBI Bank Officers and Employees under the banner of All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) and All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA).
India bans imports of more goods from Bangladesh





NEW DELHI :

INDIA has expanded the list of imports from Bangladesh that are banned from entry through any land port on the border by including more jute products amid deteriorating relations with the neighbouring country. These additional goods, which have been banned with immediate effect, include bleached and unbleached woven fabrics made of jute or other textile bast fibres; twine, cordage, andropemade ofjute; twine,cordage,rope,andcables; as well as sacks and bags made of jute.

These items will not be allowed through any Land Customs Stations orIntegrated Check Posts in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram, as well as LCS Changrabandha and Fulbari in West Bengal. According to the notification issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade, the import of these goods is allowed only via Navi Mumbais Nhava Sheva Seaport. The notification further said theserestrictionswouldntapply to Bangladesh exports to Nepal or Bhutan, while noting, Reexport of the aforesaid Bangladesh goods to India from Nepal or Bhutan shall not be allowed. Earlier, in a notification datedJune 27, the department listed several goods from Bangladesh that would be subject toregulation.Theseinclude flax tow and waste (including yarnwasteandgarnettedstock); jute andothertextilebast fibres, raw or retted; jute (excluding flax, truehemp, andramie);single flax yarn; single yarn of jute or other textile bast fibres;multiple folded yarn; woven fabrics of flax; and unbleached woven fabricsofjuteorother textilebast fibres. Besides, on May 17, India banned the import of goods, like readymade garments and processed food items, from Bangladesh to India through cross-border trade points with the neighbouring country.

This decisionisexpected tohitgoods worth $770 million (Rs 6,600 crore) that flow in from Bangladesh. Readymade garments, valued at $618 million (Rs 5,290 crore), now face strict routing throughonly twoIndian seaports. This severely limits Bangladeshs most valuable export channel to India. The other goods that have been barred from entry into India through thelandcustoms stations on the border include fruit-flavoured carbonated drinks, processed foods, cotton and cotton yarn waste, plastic and PVC finished goods, and wooden furniture.The total value of these items is pegged at around $153 million (Rs 1,310 crore). According to the directive, Import of all kinds of ReadyMade Garments from Bangladesh shallnotbeallowed from any land port; however, it is allowed only through Nhava Sheva and Kolkata seaports. The Indian move came after the Bangladesh government in Aprilbanned theimportofyarns from India to the country via land ports through a notification from the NationalBoard of Revenue.
Maharashtra Govt, Singapore partner for350-bedded multi-speciality hospital in city





Staff Reporter :

IN A significant development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis along with Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime MinisterofSingapore andJeffrey Siow, Minister of Transport for Singapore, presided over the MemorandumofUnderstanding signing and exchange between theGovernmentofMaharashtra and Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt Ltd and Temasek at Navi Mumbai.

This collaboration aims to establish a350-bedmulti-specialty hospital in Nagpur, with a proposedinvestment of up to Rs 700 crore, expected to create approximately 3,000 direct employment opportunities. District Collector of Nagpur Dr Vipin Itankar signed the document on behalf of MaharashtraGovernment. The hospital will be a multi specialty facility, providing a range ofhealthcare services to thepeopleofNagpur.GanKim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore, and Jeffrey Siow, Acting Minister for Transport alongwithDevendraFadnavis played a key role in facilitating this partnership, highlighting the growing ties between India and Singapore in the healthcare sector.

While talking to The Hitavada aseniorofficial said, Theplacehasnot finalised for setting up this hospital.But as per primary indications, the hospital is likely to come in MIHAN area. Gan Kim Yong, who is also the Minister for Trade and Industry in Singapore, has beeninstrumentalin fostering economic relationships between Singapore and other countries. As the Chairman of the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce, he has worked to address immediate challenges and develop longtermstrategies tosupportbusinesses and workers.
NUCLEAR NONSENSE





O F COURSE, Pakistan knows that its nuclear sabrerattling is not ever going to intimidate India in any manner.Yet, when its Army chief General Asim Munir decided to threaten India from the American soil, India needed to tell him in no uncertain terms that it would never entertain any nuclear blackmail. In fact, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, too, had stated unequivocally after Operation Sindoor that India would never give in to any nuclear blackmail. Yet, Pakistan Army chief chose to issue a threat of use of nuclear weapons to destroy India. That was the reason why Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) felt compelled to tell Pakistan to stop the nonsense. Of course, Pakistan is never going to give up its wrong habits, and India will tell Islamabad -- and the world -- that it would hit back the hardest if Pakistan indulged in misadventures.

When Mr. Narendra Modi said post-Op Sindoor that India would never give in to Pakistans nuclear blackmail, he knew that Indian forces had already damaged beyond repair its nuclear assets at one of its most critical sites. During Op Sindoor, Indias Brahmos missile was precise enough to hit at Pakistans nuclear site through an air-conditioning vent 45cm x 45 cm, in the process damaging nearly completely the nuclear command-and-control hub. Maybe, in the intervening months, Pakistan has repaired those damaged assets. Hence General Munirs threat. Or, maybe, those assets still stand damaged, but General Munir indulged in habitual lietelling -- and that, too, from the American soil. Does that show American complicity in the dirty Pakistani designs ? Does that also mean that the United States is a game to stoop so low that it would not mind a minion like Pakistan to use its soil to issue a threat to India ? Does that not suggest that the US may be the mastermind of such a move by Pakistan -- with an idea of pushing Indian into submission in the ongoing trade tariff war ?

Upon the correct answers to these questions depends the future course of international diplomacy in the coming times. For, as many experts suspect, US President Mr. Donald Trump has all the shrewd propensities to use Pakistan to corner India. That India would never yield to such pressure, may not occur to Mr. Trump as he has gone blind with rage and is engaged in another kind of sabre-rattling not just with India but also with many other countries. However, with India, Mr. Trump is all the more angry. For, he had thought most sincerely that India would do things to his bidding. And since that has not happened, Mr. Trump is terribly upset -- with India, with Mr. Narendra Modi, with India purchase of oil from Russia ... with everything India does or chooses not to do. He is upset that his friend Modi is not listening to him. He does not mind what the world does; he is more interested in the Indian submission (readsurrender) to the American fancy. And since that has not happened, Mr. Trump is livid. General Munirs threat appears to have stemmed from the Trump rage. General Munir was in Washington for whatever purpose.

He appears to have taken over the reins of Pakistan government, which is why Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is not seen in such critical engagements. These details apart, Pakistan must not forget that India of today is an altogether different nation. Todays India will never take any threat lying down -- which the MEAs assertion has made clear. If Pakistan does not understand this, it is doing so to its own peril, at its own risk. For, India of today is far better prepared than at any moment in the past, to protect its comprehensive interests. To such a nation, threat by a minion like Pakistan does not make any sense. That Pakistan does not understand this is its misfortune. And it has invited this because it has passed its reins to the military blockheads who understand nothing about diplomacy
US and China extend tradetruce for another 90 days





WASHINGTON :

The pause buys time for the two countries to work out some of their differences easing tension between worlds largest economies

PRESIDENT Donald Trump extended a trade truce with China for another 90 days on Monday, at least delaying once again a dangerous showdown between the worlds two biggest economies. Trump posted on hisTruth Social platform that he signed the executive order for the extension, and that all other elements of the Agreement will remain the same. Beijing at the same time also announced the extension of the tariff pause, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The previous deadline was set to expire at 12:01 am Tuesday.

Had that happened the US could have ratcheted up taxes on Chinese imports from an already high 30 per cent, and Beijing could have responded by raising retaliatory levies on US exports to China. The pause buys time for the two countries to work out some of their differences, perhaps clearing the way for a summit later this year between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and it has been welcomed by the US companies doing business with China. Sean Stein, President of the U S - C h i n a Business Council, said the extension is critical to give the two governments time to negotiate a trade agreement that US businesses hope would improve their market access in China and provide the certainty needed for companies to make medium- and long-term plans.

Securing an agreement on fentanyl that leads to a reductioninUS tariffs anda rollback ofChinas retaliatorymeasures is acutely needed to restart US agriculture and energy exports, Stein said. China said on Tuesday it would extend relief to Americancompanieswhowere placedon an exportcontrollist and an unreliable entities list. After Trump initially announced tariffs in April, China restricted exports of dual-use goods to some American companies, while banning others from trading or investing in China. The Ministry of Commerce said it would stop those restrictions forsomecompanies,while giving others another 90-day extension.Reachingapactwith China remains unfinished business for Trump, who has already upended the global trading system by slapping double-digit taxes  tariffs  on almost everycountry on earth.
US designates BLA, MajeedBrigade as terror groups





NEW YORK :

Majeed Brigade, is the unconventional operations wing of the Balochistan Liberation Army. The group was established in 2010 and named after Majeed Langove Senior aka Abdul Majeed Baloch

UNITED States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its front organisation, The Majeed Brigade (TMB), as foreign terrorist organisations (FTO). Making the announcement on Monday, he said that the MTB was also being added as an alias to BTAs previous Specially Designated GlobalTerrorist (SDGT) designation. Majeed Brigade, is the unconventional operations wing of the Balochistan Liberation Army. The group was established in 2010 and named after Majeed Langove Senior aka Abdul Majeed Baloch. Todays action taken by the Department of State demonstrates the T r ump Administrations commitment to countering terrorism, he said. Terrorist designations play a critical role in our fight against this scourge and are an effective waytocurtailsupport forterroristactivities, he said.

He said that the BLA, which was designated as an SDGT in 2019 has since claimed responsibility for terrorist activities,including those by the MTB. He cited the March hijacking of the Jaffar Express train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, during which 31 civilians and security personnel were killed, and more than 300 passengers were held hostage. The announcement coincided with Pakistan military chief Asim Munirs visit to the US. His visit was ostensibly to attend a farewell event for US General Michael Kurilla, who was leaving the post of commander of the Central Command (CENTCOM), whichcoversPakistan,in addition to the Middle East and Central Asia. According to the Pentagon, an event was held in Tampa, Florida,onFriday tobidKurilla farewell and welcome his successor Admiral Brad Cooper. Public schedules for the Departments of Defence and State, and theWhiteHouse did not list any meetings for him with officials in Washington Friday through Thursday. The FTO designation bans material or financial support for the organisations, freezes their assets, and restricts the travel of their members.

The Treasury Departments OfficeofForeignAssetsControl (OFAC) makes the SDGT designation which blocks the groups assets within the US and prohibits transactions with it. Balochs are fighting forbasic human rights in Pakistan, battling enforceddisappearances, extrajudicial killings, and systematic repression. BALOCH ARE NOT TERRORISTS, BUT VICTIMS OF PAKSPONSORED TERRORISM: HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST: AFTER the US designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its front organisation, The Majeed Brigade (TMB), as foreign terrorist organisations (FTO), a leading humanrightsactivistslammed thedecision,stating theBaloch are not the terrorists but a victim of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Balochhumanrightsdefender Mir Yar Baloch stated that Balochistan has endured 78 long years of state-sponsored terrorism, economic plunder, radioactive poisoning from Pakistansnucleartests,foreign invasion, and brutal occupation by extremist Pakistan.
Two teenage suspects were arrested in connection with a Leadville shooting that injured one.

On Monday, at approximately noon, the Lake County Sheriffs Office responded to a report of a shooting near 19773 Highway 24 in Leadville.

The call came from a teenage boy who reported being confronted by two other teens and was shot in his arm, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation said in a news release.

The teen was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries and has since been released.

Shortly after the incident, Lake County deputies found and arrested the two male teenage suspects, both of which are from the Leadville/Lake County area according to CBI.

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Both suspects have been charged with attempted first-degree murder.

CBI has requested to take the lead on the investigation with the Lake County Sheriffs Office assisting.

Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the community.

The investigation remains active and ongoing and CBI and the Lake County Sheriffs Office are asking that anyone with information related to this incident please call the Lake County Emergency Communication Center at 719-486-1249.

Greta Kerkhoff, The Denver Gazette
A closed prison in Tennessee has been approved as the latest state facility to be repurposed into a detention facility for illegal immigrants who have been arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

"Tennessee: Contracts approved for ICE to reopen a closed prison as an immigration detention facility," the White House's Rapid Response 47 account posted on X Wednesday morning.

A private contractor will oversee the newest ICE detention site in West Tennessee, according to the Associated Press.

The facility is the third such site offered up by a state to assist the Trump administration in its efforts to carry out the "largest-ever" deportation operation, following "Alligator Alcatraz" in Florida's Everglades and the "Speedway Slammer" in Indiana.

The five-person board of aldermen in Mason, Tennessee, voted on Tuesday to move forward with plans to give the contract to CoreCivic, a longtime government contractor for managing ICE detention facilities.

CoreCivic had previously managed the prison but will now transition it to house an unspecified number of illegal immigrant detainees. The redesigned facility will hire 240 employees, and pay starts at $26.50 per hour.

"The services we provide help the government solve problems in ways it could not do alone  to help create safer communities by assisting with the current immigration challenges, dramatically improve the standard of care for vulnerable people, and meet other critical needs efficiently and innovatively, CoreCivic said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Featured Local Savings

The CoreCivic contract was halted in 2021 following then-President Joe Biden's order for the Department of Justice to end contracting with private companies, which Democrats have argued profit from incarceration.

President Donald Trump reversed Biden's order against using private contractors for detention facilities and prisons.

With tens of billions of dollars in new funding through the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Department of Homeland Security's coffers are full, and the agency is moving forward with expanding the number of ICE employees.

OKLAHOMA EMPTYING PRISONS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN BUDDING ICE PARTNERSHIP

An increase in staffing means more arrests, which would require additional detention space and infrastructure to deport people to countries around the globe.

DHS and ICE did not respond to requests for comment.
Neuberger Berman Group LLC lowered its position in shares of AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV  Free Report) by 7.5% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,373,058 shares of the companys stock after selling 111,196 shares during the quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC owned about 0.08% of AbbVie worth $287,683,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in ABBV. Steel Grove Capital Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of AbbVie by 1.7% in the 4th quarter. Steel Grove Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,110 shares of the companys stock valued at $553,000 after buying an additional 52 shares during the period. Private Management Group Inc. raised its holdings in AbbVie by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Private Management Group Inc. now owns 2,938 shares of the companys stock worth $616,000 after purchasing an additional 54 shares during the period. Connecticut Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in AbbVie by 1.6% in the 4th quarter. Connecticut Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,711 shares of the companys stock worth $660,000 after purchasing an additional 57 shares during the period. Castle Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in AbbVie by 3.4% in the 1st quarter. Castle Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,725 shares of the companys stock worth $361,000 after purchasing an additional 57 shares during the period. Finally, Northstar Group Inc. raised its holdings in AbbVie by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. Northstar Group Inc. now owns 8,512 shares of the companys stock worth $1,783,000 after purchasing an additional 58 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.23% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms recently weighed in on ABBV. Daiwa America raised AbbVie from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 7th. BNP Paribas raised AbbVie to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, May 8th. Cantor Fitzgerald began coverage on AbbVie in a report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $210.00 price target for the company. Daiwa Capital Markets raised AbbVie from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $214.00 price target for the company in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut AbbVie from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, May 22nd. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eighteen have issued a buy rating and four have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, AbbVie currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $214.95.

AbbVie Price Performance

ABBV stock opened at $198.56 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 44.14, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.61. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $190.11 and a 200-day simple moving average of $191.60. The firm has a market capitalization of $350.77 billion, a PE ratio of 94.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.50. AbbVie Inc. has a 1 year low of $163.81 and a 1 year high of $218.66.

AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The company reported $2.97 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.24 by ($0.27). The business had revenue of $15.42 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.93 billion. AbbVie had a return on equity of 699.66% and a net margin of 6.45%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.65 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that AbbVie Inc. will post 12.31 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

AbbVie Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, July 15th will be given a dividend of $1.64 per share. This represents a $6.56 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.3%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, July 15th. AbbVies dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 312.38%.

Insider Activity at AbbVie

In other news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 13,295 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $198.51, for a total transaction of $2,639,190.45. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 58,247 shares in the company, valued at $11,562,611.97. This trade represents a 18.58% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

AbbVie Profile

(Free Report)

AbbVie Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Humira, an injection for autoimmune and intestinal Behcet's diseases, and pyoderma gangrenosum; Skyrizi to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic disease, and Crohn's disease; Rinvoq to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, axial spondyloarthropathy, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease; Imbruvica for the treatment of adult patients with blood cancers; Epkinly to treat lymphoma; Elahere to treat cancer; and Venclexta/Venclyxto to treat blood cancers.

Further Reading

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Maia Wealth LLC decreased its position in shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report) by 68.1% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 3,831 shares of the companys stock after selling 8,172 shares during the quarter. Maia Wealth LLCs holdings in Altria Group were worth $219,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vista Investment Partners II LLC raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 4.2% during the first quarter. Vista Investment Partners II LLC now owns 4,302 shares of the companys stock valued at $258,000 after purchasing an additional 174 shares in the last quarter. Wealth Alliance LLC raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 1.9% during the first quarter. Wealth Alliance LLC now owns 9,452 shares of the companys stock valued at $567,000 after purchasing an additional 174 shares in the last quarter. Patten & Patten Inc. TN raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 1.5% during the first quarter. Patten & Patten Inc. TN now owns 12,049 shares of the companys stock valued at $723,000 after purchasing an additional 174 shares in the last quarter. Baron Silver Stevens Financial Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 2.7% during the first quarter. Baron Silver Stevens Financial Advisors LLC now owns 6,762 shares of the companys stock valued at $406,000 after purchasing an additional 175 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ironwood Investment Counsel LLC raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 4.1% during the first quarter. Ironwood Investment Counsel LLC now owns 4,721 shares of the companys stock valued at $283,000 after purchasing an additional 187 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 57.41% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages recently weighed in on MO. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of Altria Group from $52.00 to $55.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on shares of Altria Group from $63.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Altria Group from $49.00 to $57.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of Altria Group from $57.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $59.13.

Altria Group Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of Altria Group stock opened at $66.00 on Wednesday. The companys 50-day moving average price is $59.93 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $58.03. The stock has a market cap of $110.87 billion, a PE ratio of 12.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.53 and a beta of 0.59. Altria Group, Inc. has a 52 week low of $48.86 and a 52 week high of $66.29.

Altria Group (NYSE:MO  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 30th. The company reported $1.44 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.37 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $5.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.21 billion. Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 295.26% and a net margin of 37.24%. Altria Groups revenue was up .2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.31 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Altria Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 10th. Investors of record on Monday, June 16th were paid a $1.02 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. This represents a $4.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.2%. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 78.92%.

Altria Group Profile

(Free Report)

Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report).

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ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Free Report) and National Fuel Gas (NYSE:NFG  Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their valuation, analyst recommendations, dividends, profitability, risk, institutional ownership and earnings.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current recommendations and price targets for ConocoPhillips and National Fuel Gas, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score ConocoPhillips 0 2 16 0 2.89 National Fuel Gas 0 1 2 1 3.00

ConocoPhillips currently has a consensus target price of $120.8421, suggesting a potential upside of 27.82%. National Fuel Gas has a consensus target price of $95.3333, suggesting a potential upside of 8.73%. Given ConocoPhillips higher probable upside, equities research analysts plainly believe ConocoPhillips is more favorable than National Fuel Gas.

Risk and Volatility

Insider & Institutional Ownership

ConocoPhillips has a beta of 0.67, meaning that its share price is 33% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, National Fuel Gas has a beta of 0.65, meaning that its share price is 35% less volatile than the S&P 500.

82.4% of ConocoPhillips shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 74.0% of National Fuel Gas shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.2% of ConocoPhillips shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 1.4% of National Fuel Gas shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares ConocoPhillips and National Fuel Gass revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio ConocoPhillips $56.95 billion 2.07 $9.25 billion $7.45 12.69 National Fuel Gas $1.94 billion 4.07 $77.51 million $2.66 32.96

ConocoPhillips has higher revenue and earnings than National Fuel Gas. ConocoPhillips is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than National Fuel Gas, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares ConocoPhillips and National Fuel Gas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets ConocoPhillips 15.26% 14.60% 7.68% National Fuel Gas 11.15% 20.81% 7.03%

Dividends

ConocoPhillips pays an annual dividend of $3.12 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.3%. National Fuel Gas pays an annual dividend of $2.14 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.4%. ConocoPhillips pays out 41.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. National Fuel Gas pays out 80.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. National Fuel Gas has raised its dividend for 55 consecutive years. ConocoPhillips is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Summary

ConocoPhillips beats National Fuel Gas on 11 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks.

About ConocoPhillips

(Get Free Report)

ConocoPhillips explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and natural gas liquids in the United States, Canada, China, Libya, Malaysia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company's portfolio includes unconventional plays in North America; conventional assets in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia; global LNG developments; oil sands assets in Canada; and an inventory of global exploration prospects. ConocoPhillips was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

About National Fuel Gas

(Get Free Report)

National Fuel Gas Company operates as a diversified energy company. It operates through four segments: Exploration and Production, Pipeline and Storage, Gathering, and Utility. The Exploration and Production segment explores for, develops, and produces natural gas and oil. The Pipeline and Storage segment provides interstate natural gas transportation services through an integrated gas pipeline system in Pennsylvania and New York; and owns and operates underground natural gas storage fields. This segment also transports natural gas for National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, as well as for other utilities, industrial companies, and power producers in New York State. The Gathering segment builds, owns, and operates natural gas processing and pipeline gathering facilities in the Appalachian region, as well as provides gathering services to Seneca. The Utility segment sells natural gas or provides natural gas utility services to various customers in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Jamestown, New York; and Erie and Sharon, Pennsylvania. National Fuel Gas Company was incorporated in 1902 and is headquartered in Williamsville, New York.

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Boston Partners lifted its position in Crh Plc (NYSE:CRH  Free Report) by 5.9% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 8,822,801 shares of the construction companys stock after acquiring an additional 493,796 shares during the quarter. CRH comprises approximately 0.9% of Boston Partners portfolio, making the stock its 20th largest holding. Boston Partners holdings in CRH were worth $775,349,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Diversify Advisory Services LLC grew its stake in shares of CRH by 5.0% in the 1st quarter. Diversify Advisory Services LLC now owns 2,572 shares of the construction companys stock worth $240,000 after acquiring an additional 123 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd grew its stake in shares of CRH by 20.4% in the 4th quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 755 shares of the construction companys stock worth $70,000 after acquiring an additional 128 shares in the last quarter. Callan Family Office LLC grew its stake in shares of CRH by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. Callan Family Office LLC now owns 3,074 shares of the construction companys stock worth $270,000 after acquiring an additional 129 shares in the last quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of CRH by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 8,196 shares of the construction companys stock worth $721,000 after acquiring an additional 139 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fifth Third Bancorp grew its stake in shares of CRH by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 15,257 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,342,000 after acquiring an additional 140 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 62.50% of the companys stock.

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CRH Stock Performance

CRH opened at $112.15 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $75.77 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.46, a PEG ratio of 1.38 and a beta of 1.26. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $94.92 and a 200 day moving average of $95.07. Crh Plc has a fifty-two week low of $76.75 and a fifty-two week high of $112.19.

CRH Announces Dividend

CRH ( NYSE:CRH Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The construction company reported $1.94 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.06 by ($0.12). The business had revenue of $10.21 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.27 billion. CRH had a return on equity of 15.68% and a net margin of 9.09%. CRHs revenue for the quarter was up 5.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.88 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Crh Plc will post 5.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 24th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 22nd will be given a dividend of $0.37 per share. This represents a $1.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 22nd. CRHs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 23.22%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

CRH has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. DA Davidson reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $105.00 target price (down previously from $120.00) on shares of CRH in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating on shares of CRH in a research note on Tuesday, May 6th. Vertical Research upgraded shares of CRH to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $112.00 target price (up previously from $108.00) on shares of CRH in a research note on Friday. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein assumed coverage on shares of CRH in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $115.00 price target for the company. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $113.18.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on CRH

About CRH

(Free Report)

CRH plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides building materials solutions in Ireland and internationally. It operates through four segments: Americas Materials Solutions, Americas Building Solutions, Europe Materials Solutions, and Europe Building Solutions. The company provides solutions for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure and commercial and residential buildings; and produces and sells aggregates, cement, readymixed concrete, and asphalt, as well as provides paving and construction services.

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Russell Investments Group Ltd. lessened its stake in shares of Cheniere Energy, Inc. (NYSE:LNG  Free Report) by 21.8% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 554,510 shares of the energy companys stock after selling 154,899 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd.s holdings in Cheniere Energy were worth $128,257,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. REAP Financial Group LLC raised its stake in Cheniere Energy by 150.0% during the 4th quarter. REAP Financial Group LLC now owns 125 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 75 shares during the period. Banque Transatlantique SA acquired a new stake in Cheniere Energy during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Cooksen Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in Cheniere Energy during the 1st quarter valued at $38,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Cheniere Energy during the 4th quarter valued at $42,000. Finally, Tsfg LLC raised its stake in Cheniere Energy by 676.0% during the 1st quarter. Tsfg LLC now owns 194 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $45,000 after purchasing an additional 169 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.26% of the companys stock.

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Cheniere Energy Trading Down 0.0%

Shares of NYSE:LNG opened at $229.99 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $50.54 billion, a PE ratio of 13.43 and a beta of 0.43. Cheniere Energy, Inc. has a 1 year low of $175.14 and a 1 year high of $257.65. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $235.28 and a 200 day moving average price of $228.77. The company has a current ratio of 0.98, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.96.

Cheniere Energy Dividend Announcement

Cheniere Energy ( NYSE:LNG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 7th. The energy company reported $7.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.35 by $4.95. The firm had revenue of $4.64 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.48 billion. Cheniere Energy had a net margin of 21.05% and a return on equity of 37.83%. Cheniere Energys revenue for the quarter was up 42.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $3.84 earnings per share. Analysts expect that Cheniere Energy, Inc. will post 11.69 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 18th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 8th will be issued a dividend of $0.50 per share. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 8th. Cheniere Energys dividend payout ratio is 11.68%.

Insider Transactions at Cheniere Energy

In other Cheniere Energy news, Director Neal A. Shear sold 4,300 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $245.93, for a total transaction of $1,057,499.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 29,733 shares in the company, valued at $7,312,236.69. This represents a 12.63% 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. 0.26% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

LNG has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Cheniere Energy from $267.00 to $284.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday. Stifel Nicolaus cut their target price on shares of Cheniere Energy from $255.00 to $247.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Bank of America upped their price target on shares of Cheniere Energy from $258.00 to $271.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 25th. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed a strong-buy rating on shares of Cheniere Energy in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Cheniere Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, May 9th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Cheniere Energy currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $261.93.

View Our Latest Analysis on Cheniere Energy

Cheniere Energy Company Profile

(Free Report)

Cheniere Energy, Inc, an energy infrastructure company, primarily engages in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) related businesses in the United States. It owns and operates the Sabine Pass LNG terminal in Cameron Parish, Louisiana; and the Corpus Christi LNG terminal near Corpus Christi, Texas. The company also owns Creole Trail pipeline, a 94-mile natural gas supply pipeline that interconnects the Sabine Pass LNG Terminal with several interstate and intrastate pipelines; and operates Corpus Christi pipeline, a 21.5-mile natural gas supply pipeline that interconnects the Corpus Christi LNG terminal with various interstate and intrastate natural gas pipelines.

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Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) accused former President Barack Obama and former Attorney General Eric Holder of "brutally" gerrymandering the country in the most recent U.S. census.

The topic of redistricting has been at the national forefront since Texas unveiled an aggressive plan to strip the Democrats of five congressional seats, threatening a nationwide gerrymandering arms race. In an appearance on Fox News's Hannity, DeSantis blamed the state of affairs on the Obama administration, alleging wrongdoing in their alleged influence on the 2020 census.

"Well, Obama and Holder gerrymandered brutally across the country in this decades census. They actually even got into Florida, and I had to veto the legislature's map, and I ended up proposing one which was a much fairer map and much better," he said.

DeSantis then turned his ire toward the government of California.

"California is gerrymandered. They have a commission, but that's a ruse. They have Democrats on the commission, liberal independents, and liberal Republicans. And so their map now is gerrymandered, and Gavin wants to do it even more," he said.

NEWSOM CALLS ON TRUMP TO END REDISTRICTING PUSH: PLAYING WITH FIRE

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) has threatened to retaliate against Texas with an aggressive redistricting plan ridding the state of many Republican seats if the plan goes through.

We dont move unless they move, Newsom said of Texas. This is triggered. They drew first blood. Were responding to this action, and this is how we choose to respond.
MSH Capital Advisors LLC lowered its stake in Deere & Company (NYSE:DE  Free Report) by 9.4% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 1,299 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 135 shares during the quarter. MSH Capital Advisors LLCs holdings in Deere & Company were worth $610,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in DE. Chicago Partners Investment Group LLC boosted its stake in Deere & Company by 1.2% during the 1st quarter. Chicago Partners Investment Group LLC now owns 1,803 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $852,000 after purchasing an additional 21 shares during the last quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. boosted its stake in Deere & Company by 2.4% during the 1st quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 925 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $434,000 after purchasing an additional 22 shares during the last quarter. First Bancorp Inc ME boosted its stake in Deere & Company by 4.7% during the 1st quarter. First Bancorp Inc ME now owns 509 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $239,000 after purchasing an additional 23 shares during the last quarter. Leisure Capital Management boosted its stake in Deere & Company by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Leisure Capital Management now owns 2,886 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,355,000 after purchasing an additional 23 shares during the last quarter. Finally, World Equity Group Inc. boosted its stake in Deere & Company by 4.5% during the 1st quarter. World Equity Group Inc. now owns 552 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $244,000 after purchasing an additional 24 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.58% of the companys stock.

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Deere & Company Trading Down 0.2%

NYSE DE opened at $506.07 on Wednesday. The firms 50-day moving average is $512.30 and its two-hundred day moving average is $489.69. Deere & Company has a 12 month low of $346.00 and a 12 month high of $533.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.76, a current ratio of 2.11 and a quick ratio of 1.89. The stock has a market capitalization of $137.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.48, a PEG ratio of 3.21 and a beta of 1.06.

Deere & Company Dividend Announcement

Deere & Company ( NYSE:DE Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, May 15th. The industrial products company reported $6.64 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $5.72 by $0.92. Deere & Company had a net margin of 12.40% and a return on equity of 24.39%. The company had revenue of $11.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.80 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $8.53 earnings per share. Deere & Companys revenue for the quarter was down 17.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Deere & Company will post 19.32 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 30th were paid a dividend of $1.62 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 30th. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.3%. Deere & Companys dividend payout ratio is 31.35%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on shares of Deere & Company from $490.00 to $540.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, May 16th. Melius Research raised shares of Deere & Company from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, June 6th. Robert W. Baird boosted their price target on shares of Deere & Company from $501.00 to $514.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th. Raymond James Financial boosted their price target on shares of Deere & Company from $530.00 to $560.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, May 16th. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of Deere & Company from $450.00 to $500.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 16th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $523.93.

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Deere & Company Profile

(Free Report)

Deere & Co engages in the manufacture and distribution of equipment used in agriculture, construction, forestry, and turf care. It operates through the following segments: Agriculture and Turf, Construction and Forestry, and Financial Services. The Agriculture and Turf segment focuses on the distribution and manufacture of a full line of agriculture and turf equipment and related service parts.

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E Fund Management Co. Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report) by 17.9% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 14,127 shares of the credit services providers stock after purchasing an additional 2,147 shares during the period. E Fund Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Mastercard were worth $7,743,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Accredited Investors Inc. boosted its position in Mastercard by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. now owns 718 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $394,000 after buying an additional 18 shares during the period. Wealthstream Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Mastercard by 2.9% in the first quarter. Wealthstream Advisors Inc. now owns 632 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $347,000 after purchasing an additional 18 shares during the period. Phillips Wealth Planners LLC grew its stake in Mastercard by 1.8% during the 1st quarter. Phillips Wealth Planners LLC now owns 1,055 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $538,000 after purchasing an additional 19 shares in the last quarter. Alta Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in Mastercard by 3.6% during the 1st quarter. Alta Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 540 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $296,000 after purchasing an additional 19 shares in the last quarter. Finally, May Hill Capital LLC increased its holdings in Mastercard by 2.0% during the 1st quarter. May Hill Capital LLC now owns 986 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $540,000 after purchasing an additional 19 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 97.28% of the companys stock.

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Mastercard Trading Up 0.1%

NYSE:MA opened at $573.88 on Wednesday. Mastercard Incorporated has a 1 year low of $454.89 and a 1 year high of $594.71. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.41, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a current ratio of 1.16. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $563.59 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $553.98. The stock has a market capitalization of $518.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.70, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 1.03.

Mastercard Dividend Announcement

Mastercard ( NYSE:MA Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 31st. The credit services provider reported $4.15 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.05 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $8.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.95 billion. Mastercard had a net margin of 44.93% and a return on equity of 200.01%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 16.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $3.50 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 8th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, July 9th were issued a $0.76 dividend. This represents a $3.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.5%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, July 9th. Mastercards dividend payout ratio is 20.50%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on MA. UBS Group lifted their price objective on Mastercard from $660.00 to $670.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 3rd. Macquarie decreased their price target on shares of Mastercard from $645.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Friday, June 6th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $650.00 to $652.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, May 5th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Mastercard in a report on Friday, August 1st. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-five have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Mastercard has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $615.33.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Mastercard

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Julius Genachowski sold 312 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, July 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $570.67, for a total value of $178,049.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 8,469 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,833,004.23. This represents a 3.55% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Raj Seshadri sold 1,100 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $546.77, for a total transaction of $601,447.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 12,921 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,064,815.17. This trade represents a 7.85% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 38,453 shares of company stock valued at $20,178,667 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Mastercard Profile

(Free Report)

Mastercard Incorporated, a technology company, provides transaction processing and other payment-related products and services in the United States and internationally. The company offers integrated products and value-added services for account holders, merchants, financial institutions, digital partners, businesses, governments, and other organizations, such as programs that enable issuers to provide consumers with credits to defer payments; payment products and solutions that allow its customers to access funds in deposit and other accounts; prepaid programs services; and commercial credit, debit, and prepaid payment products and solutions.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report).

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E Fund Management Co. Ltd. lifted its position in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 38.6% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,745 shares of the investment management companys stock after buying an additional 1,321 shares during the period. E Fund Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $2,592,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd bought a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group in the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. American Capital Advisory LLC bought a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group in the 1st quarter valued at $29,000. Godsey & Gibb Inc. lifted its position in The Goldman Sachs Group by 170.0% in the 1st quarter. Godsey & Gibb Inc. now owns 54 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Transce3nd LLC bought a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Finally, Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter worth about $31,000. Institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, CEO David M. Solomon sold 6,608 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $712.31, for a total value of $4,706,944.48. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 126,176 shares of the companys stock, valued at $89,876,426.56. This represents a 4.98% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Denis P. Coleman sold 7,463 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $724.40, for a total transaction of $5,406,197.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 18,594 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,469,493.60. This represents a 28.64% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 20,079 shares of company stock valued at $14,423,221 in the last three months. 0.55% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $650.00 to $785.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Citigroup boosted their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $550.00 to $700.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Evercore ISI set a $715.00 price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of 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. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $660.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on The Goldman Sachs Group

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Up 3.3%

The Goldman Sachs Group stock opened at $743.06 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $224.94 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.37, a P/E/G ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 1.38. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $439.38 and a twelve month high of $748.14. The companys 50-day moving average price is $686.71 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $615.52.

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, beating the consensus estimate of $9.82 by $1.09. The firm had revenue of $14.58 billion for 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 14.32%. The businesss revenue was up 14.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $8.62 EPS. 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 business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be issued a $4.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $16.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.2%. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is currently 26.44%.

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.

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Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Monday, June 23rd, RTT News reports. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be paid a dividend of 1.50 per share on Wednesday, September 10th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th.

Eli Lilly and Company has a payout ratio of 20.2% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Eli Lilly and Company to earn $31.12 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $6.00 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 19.3%.

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Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 0.7%

LLY stock opened at $639.50 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a current ratio of 1.28. The company has a market capitalization of $605.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.80, a PEG ratio of 0.89 and a beta of 0.44. Eli Lilly and Company has a fifty-two week low of $623.78 and a fifty-two week high of $972.53. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $769.64 and a 200-day moving average of $797.19.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 7th. The company reported $6.31 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.59 by $0.72. The company had revenue of $15.56 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $14.40 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 92.72% and a net margin of 25.91%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 37.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $3.92 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current year.

Several brokerages have commented on LLY. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Hsbc Global Res downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Monday, April 28th. UBS Group dropped their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $1,050.00 to $895.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, August 8th. HSBC downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a reduce rating and dropped their price target for the company from $1,150.00 to $700.00 in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Leerink Partnrs downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and sixteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $977.65.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Eli Lilly and Company

About Eli Lilly and Company

(Get 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.

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Mondrian Investment Partners LTD reduced its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS  Free Report) by 11.7% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 9,280 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 1,226 shares during the period. Mondrian Investment Partners LTDs holdings in Fidelity National Information Services were worth $693,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of FIS. Sierra Ocean LLC increased its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services by 356.0% during the first quarter. Sierra Ocean LLC now owns 342 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 267 shares during the last quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services by 92.1% during the first quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 342 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 164 shares during the last quarter. YANKCOM Partnership increased its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services by 118.8% during the first quarter. YANKCOM Partnership now owns 350 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 190 shares during the last quarter. Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. increased its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services by 179.9% during the first quarter. Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. now owns 389 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 250 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services by 100.5% during the first quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 445 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $33,000 after acquiring an additional 223 shares during the last quarter. 96.23% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Fidelity National Information Services Price Performance

Shares of FIS opened at $71.72 on Wednesday. Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. has a twelve month low of $66.51 and a twelve month high of $91.98. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $79.43 and its 200-day simple moving average is $76.61. The firm has a market capitalization of $37.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 398.44 and a beta of 1.04. The company has a current ratio of 0.59, a quick ratio of 0.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63.

Fidelity National Information Services Dividend Announcement

Fidelity National Information Services ( NYSE:FIS Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The information technology services provider reported $1.36 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $1.36. Fidelity National Information Services had a net margin of 1.09% and a return on equity of 18.73%. The firm had revenue of $2.62 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.57 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.36 EPS. Fidelity National Information Servicess revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. will post 5.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 24th. Investors of record on Wednesday, September 10th will be paid a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, September 10th. Fidelity National Information Servicess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 888.89%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their price target on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $95.00 to $93.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. Robert W. Baird increased their target price on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $82.00 to $86.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. TD Cowen raised shares of Fidelity National Information Services from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $92.00 price target for the company in a research report on Monday, April 21st. Oppenheimer raised shares of Fidelity National Information Services from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $94.00 price target for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price target on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $92.00 to $88.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $91.63.

View Our Latest Research Report on FIS

About Fidelity National Information Services

(Free Report)

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc engages in the provision of financial services technology solutions for financial institutions, businesses, and developers worldwide. It operates through Banking Solutions, Capital Market Solutions, and Corporate and Other segments. The company provides core processing and ancillary applications; mobile and online banking; fraud, risk management, and compliance; card and retail payment; electronic funds transfer and network; wealth and retirement; and item processing and output solutions.

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Invesco Ltd. reduced its holdings in shares of Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE:IR  Free Report) by 6.6% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,919,122 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 206,158 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. owned 0.72% of Ingersoll Rand worth $233,617,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in Ingersoll Rand by 4.6% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 19,745,039 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,580,196,000 after acquiring an additional 866,759 shares during the period. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Ingersoll Rand by 14.9% during the 1st quarter. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC now owns 5,347 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $428,000 after acquiring an additional 692 shares during the period. Townsquare Capital LLC grew its holdings in Ingersoll Rand by 26.5% during the 1st quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 3,411 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $273,000 after acquiring an additional 714 shares during the period. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT acquired a new stake in Ingersoll Rand during the 1st quarter worth about $137,000. Finally, National Bank of Canada FI grew its holdings in Ingersoll Rand by 10.9% during the 1st quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 218,032 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $17,449,000 after acquiring an additional 21,370 shares during the period. 95.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Ingersoll Rand

In related news, insider Vicente Reynal sold 38,657 shares of Ingersoll Rand stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.03, for a total value of $3,209,690.71. Following the sale, the insider owned 193,186 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,040,233.58. The trade was a 16.67% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.68% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

IR has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Stifel Nicolaus set a $78.00 price target on Ingersoll Rand and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 4th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on Ingersoll Rand from $86.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 1st. Robert W. Baird raised their target price on Ingersoll Rand from $97.00 to $103.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Citigroup restated a buy rating and issued a $104.00 target price (up from $91.00) on shares of Ingersoll Rand in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Finally, Barclays reduced their target price on Ingersoll Rand from $92.00 to $91.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $98.75.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Ingersoll Rand

Ingersoll Rand Price Performance

Shares of NYSE IR opened at $78.40 on Wednesday. Ingersoll Rand Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $65.61 and a fifty-two week high of $106.03. The stock has a market cap of $31.16 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 61.25, a PEG ratio of 4.35 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.63 and a current ratio of 2.29. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $83.55 and its 200 day simple moving average is $82.06.

Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The industrial products company reported $0.80 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.80. Ingersoll Rand had a net margin of 7.10% and a return on equity of 12.12%. The firm had revenue of $1.89 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.85 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.83 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 4.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Ingersoll Rand Inc. will post 3.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Ingersoll Rand declared that its board has authorized a share repurchase plan on Thursday, May 1st that allows the company to repurchase $1.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization allows the industrial products company to purchase up to 3.3% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are generally a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued.

Ingersoll Rand Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 4th. Investors of record on Thursday, August 14th will be issued a $0.02 dividend. This represents a $0.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 14th. Ingersoll Rands payout ratio is 6.25%.

Ingersoll Rand Company Profile

(Free Report)

Ingersoll Rand Inc provides various mission-critical air, gas, liquid, and solid flow creation technologies services and solutions worldwide. It operates through two segments, Industrial Technologies and Services, and Precision and Science Technologies. The Industrial Technologies and Services segment designs, manufactures, markets, and services air and gas compression, vacuum, and blower products; fluid transfer equipment and loading systems; and power tools and lifting equipment, including associated aftermarket parts, consumables, air treatment equipment, controls, other accessories, and services under the under the Ingersoll Rand, Gardner Denver, Nash, CompAir, Elmo Rietschle brands, etc.

Further Reading

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Ardent Health, Inc. (NYSE:ARDT  Free Report)  Research analysts at Leerink Partnrs decreased their Q3 2025 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of Ardent Health in a report issued on Wednesday, August 6th. Leerink Partnrs analyst W. Mayo now expects that the company will post earnings of $0.36 per share for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $0.81. The consensus estimate for Ardent Healths current full-year earnings is $1.23 per share.

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ARDT has been the topic of several other research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on Ardent Health from $18.00 to $15.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday. Bank of America cut Ardent Health from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and decreased their price target for the company from $15.50 to $14.60 in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. Stephens reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $21.00 price target on shares of Ardent Health in a report on Tuesday, May 20th. KeyCorp decreased their price target on Ardent Health from $24.00 to $20.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $21.00 price target on shares of Ardent Health in a report on Thursday, May 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $19.56.

Ardent Health Stock Performance

ARDT opened at $12.47 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $1.78 billion and a PE ratio of 6.89. The company has a current ratio of 2.13, a quick ratio of 2.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66. Ardent Health has a 1 year low of $10.10 and a 1 year high of $20.72. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $12.59 and its 200-day simple moving average is $13.44.

Ardent Health (NYSE:ARDT  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The company reported $0.52 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by $0.22. Ardent Health had a return on equity of 16.66% and a net margin of 4.11%. The company had revenue of $1.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.54 billion.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ardent Health

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Ventas Inc. purchased a new position in Ardent Health during the 4th quarter valued at about $159,570,000. Point72 Asset Management L.P. increased its holdings in Ardent Health by 7.9% during the 4th quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 1,609,720 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,494,000 after purchasing an additional 117,421 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Ardent Health by 368.9% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 1,330,635 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,296,000 after purchasing an additional 1,046,845 shares during the period. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC increased its holdings in Ardent Health by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 828,611 shares of the companys stock valued at $11,377,000 after purchasing an additional 11,429 shares during the period. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in Ardent Health by 1,684.9% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 767,862 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,558,000 after purchasing an additional 724,841 shares during the period.

About Ardent Health

(Get Free Report)

Ardent Health Partners, Inc owns and operates a network of hospitals and clinics that provides a range of healthcare services in the United States. It operates acute care hospitals, including rehabilitation hospitals and surgical hospitals. The company was founded in 2001 and is based in Brentwood, Tennessee.

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LHM Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 138,451 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,727,000. Novo Nordisk A/S makes up about 3.2% of LHM Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 5th biggest position.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 30.0% in the 1st quarter. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd now owns 13,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $918,000 after acquiring an additional 3,000 shares in the last quarter. Rathbones Group PLC lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 249.7% in the 1st quarter. Rathbones Group PLC now owns 42,006 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,917,000 after acquiring an additional 29,993 shares in the last quarter. Arrowpoint Investment Partners Singapore Pte. Ltd. lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 257.3% in the 1st quarter. Arrowpoint Investment Partners Singapore Pte. Ltd. now owns 8,600 shares of the companys stock valued at $597,000 after acquiring an additional 6,193 shares in the last quarter. Callan Family Office LLC lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 10.5% in the 1st quarter. Callan Family Office LLC now owns 33,475 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,325,000 after acquiring an additional 3,192 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Stone House Investment Management LLC bought a new position in Novo Nordisk A/S in the 1st quarter valued at about $30,000. Institutional investors own 11.54% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

NVO has been the topic of several recent research reports. Hsbc Global Res cut shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. 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 note on Thursday, April 17th. BNP Paribas upgraded shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from an underperform rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday. HSBC lowered shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $57.00 price objective for the company. in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Barclays reiterated an equal weight rating on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Novo Nordisk A/S presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $93.67.

Novo Nordisk A/S Trading Down 0.2%

Shares of NVO stock opened at $49.79 on Wednesday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $66.26 and a 200-day moving average of $71.05. The company has a quick ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 12-month low of $45.05 and a 12-month high of $139.74. The firm has a market cap of $222.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.68, a PEG ratio of 1.71 and a beta of 0.63.

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The company reported $0.97 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.93 by $0.04. Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 35.60% and a return on equity of 78.64%. The company had revenue of $11.69 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $77.51 billion. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.84 earnings per share for the current year.

Novo Nordisk A/S Cuts Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, August 26th. Investors of record on Monday, August 18th will be issued a $0.4119 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, August 18th. This represents a yield of 240.0%. Novo Nordisk A/Ss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 45.05%.

Novo Nordisk A/S Company 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.

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Core Laboratories Inc. (NYSE:CLB  Free Report)  Zacks Research decreased their Q4 2026 EPS estimates for shares of Core Laboratories in a report issued on Friday, August 8th. Zacks Research analyst R. Department now anticipates that the oil and gas company will earn $0.24 per share for the quarter, down from their previous forecast of $0.26. The consensus estimate for Core Laboratories current full-year earnings is $0.96 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Core Laboratories Q2 2027 earnings at $0.27 EPS.

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Several other analysts also recently commented on CLB. Citigroup dropped their price objective on shares of Core Laboratories from $16.00 to $13.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, May 13th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Core Laboratories from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 26th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus dropped their price objective on shares of Core Laboratories from $13.00 to $12.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, July 16th.

Core Laboratories Stock Up 6.9%

CLB stock opened at $10.41 on Monday. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $11.75 and its 200-day simple moving average is $13.16. The company has a market capitalization of $488.17 million, a P/E ratio of 16.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.94 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 2.27 and a quick ratio of 1.70. Core Laboratories has a 12 month low of $9.72 and a 12 month high of $21.83.

Core Laboratories (NYSE:CLB  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 23rd. The oil and gas company reported $0.19 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.18 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $130.16 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $129.19 million. Core Laboratories had a net margin of 5.73% and a return on equity of 14.15%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down .3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.22 EPS.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Core Laboratories

Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. AlphaQuest LLC lifted its stake in shares of Core Laboratories by 265,800.0% in the 1st quarter. AlphaQuest LLC now owns 2,659 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 2,658 shares during the period. Assetmark Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Core Laboratories by 92.5% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 2,887 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $43,000 after purchasing an additional 1,387 shares during the period. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC lifted its stake in shares of Core Laboratories by 843.7% in the 4th quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 3,284 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $57,000 after purchasing an additional 2,936 shares during the period. Ingalls & Snyder LLC acquired a new position in shares of Core Laboratories in the 2nd quarter valued at $115,000. Finally, BNP Paribas Financial Markets acquired a new position in shares of Core Laboratories in the 4th quarter valued at $123,000. 97.81% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Core Laboratories Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 25th. Investors of record on Monday, August 4th will be paid a $0.01 dividend. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.4%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 4th. Core Laboratoriess payout ratio is currently 6.45%.

About Core Laboratories

(Get Free Report)

Core Laboratories Inc provides reservoir description and production enhancement services and products to the oil and gas industry in the United States, and internationally. It operates through Reservoir Description and Production Enhancement segments. The Reservoir Description segment includes the characterization of petroleum reservoir rock and reservoir fluid samples to enhance production and improve recovery of crude oil and gas from its clients' reservoirs.

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Corebridge Financial (NYSE:CRBG  Get Free Report) and Radian Group (NYSE:RDN  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, earnings, valuation, profitability, dividends, risk and analyst recommendations.

Profitability

This table compares Corebridge Financial and Radian Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Corebridge Financial -1.80% 22.06% 0.74% Radian Group 45.62% 13.25% 6.88%

Insider & Institutional Ownership

98.3% of Corebridge Financial shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 95.3% of Radian Group shares are held by institutional investors. 0.3% of Corebridge Financial shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 2.2% of Radian Group shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Dividends

Earnings and Valuation

Corebridge Financial pays an annual dividend of $0.96 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.8%. Radian Group pays an annual dividend of $1.02 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.9%. Corebridge Financial pays out -157.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Radian Group pays out 25.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Corebridge Financial has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years and Radian Group has increased its dividend for 6 consecutive years. Radian Group is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

This table compares Corebridge Financial and Radian Groups gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Corebridge Financial $19.58 billion 0.94 $2.23 billion ($0.61) -56.04 Radian Group $1.29 billion 3.64 $604.44 million $3.97 8.73

Corebridge Financial has higher revenue and earnings than Radian Group. Corebridge Financial is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Radian Group, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for Corebridge Financial and Radian Group, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Corebridge Financial 0 3 8 0 2.73 Radian Group 0 4 0 0 2.00

Corebridge Financial presently has a consensus price target of $40.70, indicating a potential upside of 19.06%. Radian Group has a consensus price target of $37.00, indicating a potential upside of 6.76%. Given Corebridge Financials stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Corebridge Financial is more favorable than Radian Group.

Volatility & Risk

Corebridge Financial has a beta of 1.06, suggesting that its share price is 6% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Radian Group has a beta of 0.74, suggesting that its share price is 26% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Corebridge Financial beats Radian Group on 9 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Corebridge Financial

(Get Free Report)

Corebridge Financial, Inc. provides retirement solutions and insurance products in the United States. The company operates through Individual Retirement, Group Retirement, Life Insurance, and Institutional Markets segments. The Individual Retirement segment provides fixed annuities, fixed index annuities, variable annuities, and retail mutual funds. The Group Retirement segment offers record-keeping services, plan administration and compliance services, and financial planning and advisory solutions to employer-defined contribution plans and their participants, as well as proprietary and non-proprietary annuities, advisory services, and brokerage products. The Life Insurance segment offers term life and universal life insurance in the United States, as well as issues individual life, whole life, and group life insurance in the United Kingdom; and distributes medical insurance in Ireland. The Institutional Markets segment provides stable value wraps, structured settlement and pension risk transfer annuities, corporate and bank owned life insurance, private placement variable universal life and annuities products, and guaranteed investment contracts. The company was formerly known as SAFG Retirement Services, Inc. Corebridge Financial, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. The company operates as a subsidiary of American International Group, Inc.

About Radian Group

(Get Free Report)

Radian Group Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mortgage and real estate services business in the United States. It operates through two segments, Mortgage Insurance and Homegenius segments. The Mortgage Insurance segment aggregates, manages, and distributes U.S. mortgage credit risk for mortgage lending institutions and mortgage credit investors, through private mortgage insurance on residential first-lien mortgage loans; and other credit risk management solutions, including contract underwriting. The Homegenius segment offers title services, including a suite of insurance and non-insurance titles; tax and title data, centralized recording, document retrieval, and default curative title services; deed and property reports; closing and settlement services; mortgage underwriting and processing; escrow; appraisal management; and real estate brokerage. This segment also provides real estate valuation products and services; asset management services for managing real estate owned properties, which includes a web-based workflow solution; and a suite of real estate technology products and services to facilitate real estate transactions, such as proprietary platforms as a service solution. It serves mortgage originators, such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, savings institutions, credit unions, and community banks; and consumers, mortgage lenders, mortgage and real estate investors, government-sponsored enterprises, real estate brokers and agents, and corporations for their employees. The company was formerly known as CMAC Investment Corp. and changed its name to Radian Group Inc. in June 1999. Radian Group Inc. was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

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By design, antifa is a decentralized, far-left movement of loosely knit resistance networks operating primarily in Democratic strongholds. But in recent years, antifas forces have become highly organized and increasingly sophisticated, with organized crime cells cropping up across the country. Part 3 of this Washington Examiner series, Antifa, Inc., will explore what it would take to designate antifa as a domestic terrorist organization and assess the implications of that designation.

The Trump administration and Republicans in Congress have long entertained the idea of designating antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.

However, applying the term terrorists to describe, identify, and sanction domestic groups remains a controversial topic and is considered politically charged by observers on both sides of the aisle.

As the federal statute stands, labeling antifa as a domestic terrorist threat would be largely symbolic, though some proponents support sending a public message as antifas forces continue to terrorize communities.

Threat assessment

Through an intimidation tactic, known as doxing, antifa militants often publicize sensitive information such as home addresses, personal phone numbers, and private photographs of their intended targets. At times, antifas followers have appeared outside a victims house, answering doxes they see as calls to take direct action.

"Sometimes you have to use direct action to stop [fascists] because protesting, signs, yelling is not going to do anything, an antifa activist told VICE at the apex of the anti-Trump riots on UCLA Berkeleys campus. You have to make them afraid.

Rose City Antifa, the oldest-known antifa chapter in America and regarded as the most influential, has publicly posted about fighting fascists with militant violence: We are unapologetic about the reality that fighting fascism at points requires physical militancy.

LEFT-WING TERRORISM IS BACK IN BUSINESS

Now, some antifa cohorts are employing guerrilla-like tactics on par with paramilitary warfare.

In a well-coordinated July 4 ambush, heavily armed members of a suspected Texas antifa cell allegedly descended on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Alvarado, opening fire on law enforcement officers they lured outside and shooting a local officer in the neck.

According to the charging documents, multiple gunmen fired from various vantage points, including at least one shooter positioned in the nearby woods. Alleged ringleader Benjamin Song, an ex-U.S. Marine reservist, reportedly provided weapons training to antifa militants in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

MEET THE ANTIFA CELL CHARGED WITH TERRORISM AND ATTEMPTED MURDER OVER AMBUSH AT TEXAS ICE FACILITY

Antifa attacks on ICE property and personnel, with the apparent intent to kill, are not new escalations of antifascist violence.

In 2019, self-identified comrade Willem van Spronsen firebombed an ICE detention center in Tacoma, Washington, allegedly trying to ignite a 500-gallon propane tank attached to the facility. I am antifa, van Spronsons manifesto read in part. After he died in a police shootout, Seattle Antifascist Action hailed him as another martyr in the struggle against fascism. His death turned into a dog whistle for direct action.

A transgender-antifa (dubbed Trantifa) cult called the Zizians has also emerged this year, whose kill count is allegedly up to six fatalities, including the January shooting death of a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont.

Designation debate

The two Trump administrations have supported identifying antifa as a domestic terrorism threat. However, these attempts to do so, in effect, only amounted to proclamations or investigative pivots, with no actual effect on the legal landscape.

In early 2016, before President Donald Trumps first term, the Department of Homeland Security internally classified antifa activities as domestic terrorist violence. This description, used among officials to assess the movements threat to national security, was not an official designation.

DHS CHARACTERIZES ANTIFA AS DOMESTIC TERRORIST GROUP

At the outset of the George Floyd riots in 2020, Trump tweeted, The United States of America will be designating ANTIFA as a Terrorist Organization.

On the same day as his declaration, Trumps then-U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr announced that federal authorities were treating riot-related antifa violence as domestic terrorism. The violence instigated and carried out by Antifa and other similar groups in connection with the rioting is domestic terrorism and will be treated accordingly, per the Justice Department announcement.

In accordance with this, law enforcement officials were deploying the Federal Bureau of Investigations network of Joint Terrorism Task Forces to identify organizers and instigators, Barr said.

For federal investigative purposes, the FBI, whose stated No. 1 priority is protecting the U.S. against terrorist attacks, defines domestic terrorism as violent acts carried out to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences, such as those of a political, religious, social, racial, or environmental nature.

Antifa suspects can be sub-categorized as an anarchist extremist under the classification of Anti-Government or Anti-Authority Violent Extremism, one of the FBIs five threat categories.

While antifa extremists may be the subjects of domestic terrorism investigations, the federal government does not have the prosecutorial power to charge them as domestic terrorists explicitly.

FBI INVESTIGATING PEOPLE ANIMATED BY ANTIFA IDEOLOGY

This legislative session, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, has introduced H.Res.26, which would congressionally designate antifa as a domestic terrorist organization and deem certain conduct of antifa activists, or any unlawful conduct performed at an Antifa-affiliated demonstration, as domestic terrorism.

Greenes resolution was referred to the House Judiciary Committee in January and has not seen any congressional action since.

Several similar Republican-drafted resolutions targeting antifa were proposed in the past, including Greenes 2023 version. None of them advanced past committee referrals. Regardless, these resolutions are non-binding in nature, meaning theyre simply declarative and would not result in punitive ramifications for antifa followers.

What federal authorities are saying today

The FBI's role in and dedication to investigating terrorism, both domestically and internationally, has not changed, the agencys public affairs office previously said in response to a Washington Examiner inquiry asking if investigators are cracking down on antifa militancy.

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The bureau deferred to the U.S. secretary of state regarding terrorist designations, although the State Department deals strictly with foreign matters and accordingly only designates foreign actors as terrorism threats.

No legal framework exists for designating a domestic group, antifa or otherwise, as a terrorist entity. Anti-terrorism legislation setting the criteria for State Department designations narrowly defines a terrorist organization as one operating primarily outside the U.S.

Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes the U.S. State Department to make these determinations, relies on definitions of terroristic activity and terrorism as delineated, respectively, by the Foreign Relations Authorization Act and the INAs guidelines concerning the inadmissibility of foreign nationals on terrorism-related grounds.

A spokesperson for the State Department confirmed that the agency, pursuant to statutory powers, does not designate organizations based mainly in the U.S.

The department does not discuss deliberations or potential considerations related to designations, the spokesperson said, when the Washington Examiner asked whether the American offshoot of antifa, which originated in Europe, would fall within the purview.

Investigative journalist Andy Ngo, author of Unmasked: Inside Antifas Radical Plan to Destroy Democracy, said he does not envision American antifa ever officially being deemed a domestic terrorist threat.

HOW THE ANTIFA MOVEMENT HAS METASTASIZED

Ngo, citing First Amendment protections, said the U.S. government cannot outright ban domestic extremist groups, even when certain cohorts incite terrorism and political violence.

Any labeling of antifa as a terrorism group or network would be primarily political rhetoric, in my opinion, Ngo told the Washington Examiner.

As specified in the FBIs interagency standards for investigating domestic terrorism, mere advocacy of ideological positions and/or use of strong rhetoric does not necessarily constitute violent extremism, without direct threats, nor does generalized philosophic embrace of violent tactics. All are constitutionally protected speech.

Criminal caveat

Ngo noted that the U.S. attorneys office in North Texas has not charged the alleged members of the Dallas-area antifa cell with any terrorism-linked crimes, though the state of Texas did file state-level terrorism charges against them.

Domestic terrorism is defined in the U.S. criminal code as ideologically driven acts dangerous to human life and committed on American soil that appear to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence policy via intimidation or coercion, or affect government conduct through mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping.

As part of Greenes resolution, if passed, Congress would call on the DOJ to prosecute antifa-affiliated crimes of domestic terrorism.

However, domestic terrorism is not a stand-alone crime chargeable under federal law.

I don't think it ever will be, Cully Stimson, manager of the Heritage Foundations National Security Law Program, told the Washington Examiner.

The issue has been debated on Capitol Hill for decades, but no federal authority has ever formally attached criminal penalties to domestic terrorism. Until an act of Congress codifies the crime of domestic terrorism, it is technically not criminalized.

Therefore, designating antifa as a domestic terrorist group is performative, Stimson said, and bears no legal consequence.

What you're doing is youre raising alarm bells that this organization is up to no good. They can be prosecuted for underlying crimes that they commit, and that may be the whole point, Stimson, a former federal prosecutor, explained. But the so-called crime of domestic terrorism does not exist.

Indeed, the FBIs policy on opening investigations into domestic terrorism underscores that the federal statute is definitional, not charging in nature. [I]deology itself and the advocacy of such beliefs is not prohibited by U.S. law, the FBI emphasizes.

Regardless of a formal designation from the DOJ, prosecutors focus on underlying criminal conduct rather than labels such as domestic terrorism, Stimson said.

COULD ANTIFA CO-CONSPIRATORS EVER FACE FEDERAL RICO CHARGES?

Stimson said he doesnt foresee lawmakers amending or adding penal code provisions with regard to domestic terrorism, given the expansive range of criminal offenses and legal procedures laid out under Title 18.

They're not going to do it, Stimson said. And by the way, they don't need to do it. It's unnecessaryThere's more than sufficient amount of law on the books to go after criminal conduct."

According to Stimson, domestic terrorism lacks criminal punishment due to these practical and political reasons.

One person's domestic terrorist is another person's freedom fighter, Stimson said.

The American Civil Liberties Union says terrorism is an inherently political label, easily abused and misused. Designating political opponents as domestic terrorists would raise due process and First Amendment concerns, the ACLU warns.

Dr. Eric Patterson, president and CEO of the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, said groups seeking revolutionary violence are a cause for concern, and any criminal actions perpetrated in furtherance of a violent agenda are worth public condemnation.

Americans should rightfully be worried about groups that glorify the symbols of communist oppression, such as communist flags that symbolize the murder of 100 million men and women during the 20th century by Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Fidel, and other communists, Patterson told the Washington Examiner.

WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER USE THE TERM ANTI-FASCIST

Every such movement began with misinformation campaigns and illicit violence against fellow citizens and government institutions, Patterson added. As a society, we must be vigilant in calling out all forms of such intimidation and violence."
Prudential PLC lifted its holdings in shares of Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA  Free Report) by 164.1% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 43,472 shares of the insurance providers stock after purchasing an additional 27,013 shares during the quarter. Prudential PLC owned about 0.07% of Reinsurance Group of America worth $8,560,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Cordatus Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 3.1% during the first quarter. Cordatus Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,681 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $331,000 after purchasing an additional 50 shares during the last quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC raised its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 4.9% in the 1st quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC now owns 1,204 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $237,000 after buying an additional 56 shares during the period. Colonial Trust Co SC raised its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 72.2% in the 4th quarter. Colonial Trust Co SC now owns 136 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $29,000 after buying an additional 57 shares during the period. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund raised its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund now owns 13,454 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $2,649,000 after buying an additional 60 shares during the period. Finally, Trust Point Inc. raised its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 5.4% in the 1st quarter. Trust Point Inc. now owns 1,219 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $240,000 after buying an additional 62 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 95.11% of the companys stock.

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Reinsurance Group of America Stock Down 0.0%

Shares of NYSE RGA opened at $186.18 on Wednesday. Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated has a 1 year low of $159.25 and a 1 year high of $233.81. The firm has a market cap of $12.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.16 and a beta of 0.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a current ratio of 0.16. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $194.52 and its 200-day simple moving average is $196.60.

Reinsurance Group of America Increases Dividend

Reinsurance Group of America ( NYSE:RGA Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The insurance provider reported $4.72 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $5.58 by ($0.86). Reinsurance Group of America had a return on equity of 12.56% and a net margin of 3.54%. The business had revenue of $5.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.70 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $5.48 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 14.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated will post 22.9 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, August 26th. Investors of record on Tuesday, August 12th will be issued a $0.93 dividend. This is an increase from Reinsurance Group of Americas previous quarterly dividend of $0.89. This represents a $3.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, August 12th. Reinsurance Group of Americas dividend payout ratio is presently 30.90%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts recently weighed in on RGA shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Reinsurance Group of America from $237.00 to $264.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on Reinsurance Group of America from $250.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. Raymond James Financial reissued a market perform rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Friday, May 23rd. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on Reinsurance Group of America from $249.00 to $241.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on Reinsurance Group of America from $209.00 to $210.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $243.64.

Read Our Latest Research Report on RGA

Reinsurance Group of America Company Profile

(Free Report)

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated engages in reinsurance business. The company offers individual and group life and health insurance products, such as term life, credit life, universal life, whole life, group life and health, joint and last survivor insurance, critical illness, disability, and longevity products; asset-intensive and financial reinsurance products; and other capital motivated solutions.

See Also

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Seabridge Gold Inc. (TSE:SEA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:SA)s stock price crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of C$18.23 and traded as high as C$23.20. Seabridge Gold shares last traded at C$23.16, with a volume of 82,854 shares traded.

Seabridge Gold Trading Up 1.0%

The businesss fifty day simple moving average is C$20.96 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$18.23. The company has a current ratio of 2.28, a quick ratio of 3.34 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 58.83. The stock has a market cap of C$2.13 billion, a P/E ratio of -164.01 and a beta of 1.09.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director John William Sabine acquired 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, June 16th. The shares were purchased at an average price of C$19.91 per share, with a total value of C$99,550.00. 2.78% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Seabridge Gold

Seabridge Gold Inc is a development stage company involved in the evaluation, acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties sited in North America. The companys principal projects include the Kerr-Sulphurets-Mitchell property located in British Columbia, the Courageous Lake property located in the Northwest Territories and its newly acquired Iksut Property located in northwestern British Columbia.

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NFP Retirement Inc. lifted its position in shares of Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL  Free Report) by 0.8% in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 10,234 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 86 shares during the period. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in Welltower were worth $1,568,000 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 company. SouthState Corp increased its holdings in Welltower by 704.8% in the 1st quarter. SouthState Corp now owns 169 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 148 shares in the last quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Hughes Financial Services LLC acquired a new stake in Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at $31,000. Finally, Franchise Capital Ltd acquired a new stake in Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at $32,000. 94.80% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Welltower

In other news, Director Andrew Gundlach purchased 20,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, June 30th. The shares were bought at an average price of $151.46 per share, for a total transaction of $3,029,200.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director owned 20,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,029,200. This trade represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.21% of the companys stock.

Welltower Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE WELL opened at $164.58 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 4.19, a current ratio of 4.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44. The firms 50-day moving average price is $157.32 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $150.98. Welltower Inc. has a 52-week low of $115.18 and a 52-week high of $171.09. The stock has a market capitalization of $110.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 92.98, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.93.

Welltower (NYSE:WELL  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, July 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.22 by $0.06. Welltower had a net margin of 12.18% and a return on equity of 3.38%. The firm had revenue of $2.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.49 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.05 earnings per share. Welltowers revenue was up 39.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Welltower Inc. will post 4.88 earnings per share for the current year.

Welltower Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, August 21st. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 12th will be paid a $0.74 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, August 12th. This is an increase from Welltowers previous quarterly dividend of $0.67. This represents a $2.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.8%. Welltowers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 151.41%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have weighed in on WELL. Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on shares of Welltower from $155.00 to $160.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on shares of Welltower from $162.00 to $175.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Welltower in a research report on Monday, June 23rd. Wedbush reissued an underperform rating on shares of Welltower in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Welltower from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $169.82.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Welltower

Welltower Profile

(Free Report)

Welltower Inc (NYSE:WELL), a real estate investment trust (REIT) and S&P 500 company headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, is driving the transformation of health care infrastructure. Welltower invests with leading seniors housing operators, post-acute providers and health systems to fund the real estate infrastructure needed to scale innovative care delivery models and improve peoples wellness and overall health care experience.

Further Reading

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Hippo Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HIPO  Free Report)  Analysts at William Blair upped their Q3 2025 earnings estimates for shares of Hippo in a report issued on Thursday, August 7th. William Blair analyst A. Klauber now expects that the company will post earnings per share of $0.04 for the quarter, up from their previous forecast of ($0.32). The consensus estimate for Hippos current full-year earnings is ($3.63) per share. William Blair also issued estimates for Hippos Q4 2025 earnings at $0.41 EPS.

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HIPO has been the topic of several other reports. B. Riley raised their price target on shares of Hippo from $35.00 to $41.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. JMP Securities lifted their target price on shares of Hippo from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Hippo from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their target price on shares of Hippo from $24.00 to $26.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $34.25.

Hippo Stock Performance

NYSE HIPO opened at $29.30 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a current ratio of 0.91 and a quick ratio of 0.91. The firm has a market capitalization of $737.29 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -59.80 and a beta of 1.53. The companys fifty day moving average is $27.54 and its two-hundred day moving average is $26.37. Hippo has a 52-week low of $15.74 and a 52-week high of $35.44.

Hippo (NYSE:HIPO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The company reported $0.65 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.65) by $1.30. The company had revenue of $117.30 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $116.00 million. Hippo had a negative net margin of 2.52% and a negative return on equity of 12.13%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Hippo

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey lifted its holdings in Hippo by 12.2% during the 2nd quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 4,481 shares of the companys stock valued at $125,000 after purchasing an additional 489 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in Hippo by 1.5% during the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 35,866 shares of the companys stock valued at $960,000 after purchasing an additional 539 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Hippo by 8.3% during the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 16,193 shares of the companys stock valued at $414,000 after purchasing an additional 1,236 shares during the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio lifted its holdings in Hippo by 13.5% during the 4th quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 11,736 shares of the companys stock valued at $314,000 after purchasing an additional 1,400 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its holdings in Hippo by 5.7% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 26,768 shares of the companys stock valued at $717,000 after purchasing an additional 1,434 shares during the last quarter. 43.01% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Insider Activity

In other news, major shareholder Len Fw Investor, Llc sold 514,309 shares of Hippo stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $28.17, for a total transaction of $14,488,084.53. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 2,476,418 shares in the company, valued at approximately $69,760,695.06. The trade was a 17.20% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Torben Ostergaard sold 2,444 shares of Hippo stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.95, for a total transaction of $73,197.80. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 64,349 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,927,252.55. This represents a 3.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 521,642 shares of company stock worth $14,681,601. 10.80% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Hippo Company Profile

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Hippo Holdings Inc provides property and casualty insurance products to individuals and business customers primarily in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Services, Insurance-as-a-Service, and Hippo Home Insurance Program. Its insurance products include homeowners' insurance against risks of fire, wind, and theft, as well as other personal lines policies from third party carriers; and personal and commercial, as well as home, auto, cyber, small business, life, specialty lines, and other insurance products.

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FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau has made 10 arrests as part of President Donald Trump's effort to crack down on crime in the capital.

In a post on X, Patel gave his first update on the FBI's effort to assist Trump with his initiative to "make DC safe again." Over the first night, the FBI made arrests on a search warrant for a prior murder charge, unlawful possession of firearms, multiple outstanding warrants for DUI, and a violation of a restraining order, among others.

"These are just a few examples  we are just getting started. Federal partners joined local police and arrested 23 in total. When you let good cops be cops they can clean up our streets and do it fast," he said.

"More to come," Patel vowed. "Your nations Capital WILL be safe again."

On Monday, Trump announced Liberation Day for Washington, federalizing the Metropolitan Police Department and activating the National Guard. The FBI was one of several agencies assisting Trump's crackdown.

White House officials said Trump will mobilize roughly 800 National Guard troops to assist the MPD with logistics, transportation, and guarding federal and law enforcement facilities. The federalization is expected to last 30 days, and Attorney General Pam Bondi will be in charge of the federalized MPD.

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This is Liberation Day in D.C., and were going to take our capital back, Trump told reporters in the White House press briefing room. Were taking it back under the authorities vested in me as the president of the United States. Im officially invoking Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act  you know what that is  and placing the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control.

He added that the National Guard troops would be allowed to do their job properly.

LINDSEY GRAHAM SAYS DC MOST DANGEROUS PLACE ON EARTH IN DEFENDING TRUMP POLICE TAKEOVER

The move was met with backlash, with critics arguing the move was unnecessary, pointing to city data showing a significant decrease in crime over the past year. Defenders have accused city officials of manipulating the numbers; a Washington, D.C., police commander was suspended last month after accusing MPD Chief Pamela Smith and other top department brass of falsely manipulating crime statistics.

Trump had floated the idea of taking over Washington during his 2024 presidential campaign, bemoaning the state of the city. The first seven months of his second term went by without much focus on the issue until earlier this month, when a Department of Government Efficiency staffer was assailed by several juveniles. An enraged Trump held up the attack as symptomatic of the deteriorating conditions in the capital, vowing to take drastic measures to restore the city to its former glory.
The Supreme Court scheduled its first slate of arguments for its 2025-2026 term, including a second round of arguments in a case involving Louisiana's congressional map, which could have wider ramifications for other states' maps.

The high court will hear a second round of oral arguments on Oct. 15 in the case about the constitutionality of creating a second black-majority congressional district in Louisiana.

The justices heard a first round of oral arguments in Louisiana v. Callais in March but punted on a decision in June and ordered new briefs on whether the state's intentional creation of a second majority-minority congressional district violates the Fourteenth or Fifteenth Amendments. The outcome of the case could further narrow the Voting Rights Act and eliminate mandatory minority-majority districts.

The Supreme Court scheduled Villarreal v. Texas as the first oral arguments of the term for Oct. 6. Justices will weigh whether a trial court curtailed a defendant's Sixth Amendment right by prohibiting him from discussing his testimony with his lawyer during an overnight recess.

Another notable hearing scheduled for October is in Bost v. Illinois Board of Elections. Justices will hear arguments over a standing question about whether federal candidates and political groups may challenge state voting laws. The oral arguments in the case are scheduled for Oct. 8.

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The high court also released its schedule for November oral arguments, with nine sets of arguments to be heard on Nov. 3, 4, 5, 10, and 12.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ASKS SUPREME COURT TO LIFT IMMIGRATION RAID RESTRICTIONS

The Supreme Court is expected to hold oral arguments for the coming term beginning Oct. 6 through April 2026, with decisions in the cases to be released throughout the term through the end of June 2026.

The justices have already taken up nearly three dozen cases for their upcoming term and will likely take up more than three dozen more cases in the coming months. Cases that the high court will hear that are not scheduled yet include a pair of challenges to state laws banning biological males from female sports.
Washington, D.C.s juvenile justice system contains structural gaps and outdated statutes that legal and policy experts say shield many violent teenagers from accountability and allow repeat offenders to cycle through the courts with minimal consequences.

From strict limits on when minors can be prosecuted as adults, to local statutes that favor leniency and a judicial appointment process some say is unconstitutional, critics argue the system is structurally tilted toward rehabilitative efforts despite frequent repeat offenders. That presents an onerous problem for President Donald Trump and his efforts to clean up crime in the nation's Capital, after moving to take control of the D.C. police department and deploy National Guard troops to quell lawlessness that has plagued the city for years.

The Aug. 3 attack on Edward Coristine, a former DOGE staffer and Elon Musk protege, brought those weaknesses into sharper focus. Police arrested two 15-year-olds from Maryland in connection with the attempted carjacking and beating, which was caught on video and widely shared online.

Hours after Trump announced he would federalize the Metropolitan Police Department and deploy the National Guard to city streets on Monday, a D.C. judge ruled Coristine's alleged attackers would remain in custody at the citys Youth Services Center, a rare move for a juvenile justice system that often resorts to more lenient punishments, such as a flawed ankle monitoring system.

While the decision to keep the young suspects off the streets marked a step toward restoring law and order, hurdles remain ahead with D.C's justice system and District Attorney General Brian Schwalb, a Democrat with a history of shrugging off calls to bring harsher penalties against juvenile offenders.

Narrow authority for adult charges against minors

In D.C., criminal offenders younger than 15 can be prosecuted only by the D.C. Attorney General, even for crimes such as rape, armed robbery, or murder. Those 15 to 17 can only be transferred to adult court if the attorney general requests it.

But Schwalb has made clear he will not use that power, saying at a 2023 community event that kids are kids and teenagers are biologically prone to mistakes. His office, he added, has a duty to treat kids like kids and give them a chance at rehabilitation.

Schwalb's office did not return a request for comment when asked by the Washington Examiner whether he has changed his views in the two years since these public remarks.

Amid resistance by the District's main local prosecutor, there is some leeway for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia, a position held by Trump-appointee Jeanine Pirro, who can prosecute 16- or 17-year-olds as adults without local approval only for a handful of offenses, including murder, first-degree sexual abuse, and armed robbery.

But that still leaves many violent assaults outside federal reach unless the victim dies.

Zack Smith, a senior legal fellow at the Heritage Foundation, told the Washington Examiner the arrangement in D.C. is virtually unheard of in other states and puts most serious cases in the hands of a local prosecutor who will not pursue adult charges against minors.

Plenary authority to prosecute juveniles below 15 rests with the D.C. Attorney General, Smith noted, adding that even for older teenagers, the U.S. attorney can reach down and prosecute you, but only for a few specified, enumerated offenses.

Repeat offenses and rising arrests

Metropolitan Police Department data show the number of juveniles arrested in D.C. has increased yearly since 2020, surpassing 2,000 in both 2023 and 2024. More than half of all robbery arrests last year involved minors, and about 60% of this years carjacking arrests to date are juveniles. Nearly 200 youths charged with violent crimes in 2024 had prior violent crime arrests.

Smith tied the trend to years of reduced police resources, blaming the D.C. Council for passing a criminal code overhaul in 2023 that was so radical that Congress and former President Joe Biden rejected it. The Metropolitan Police Department, he said, is now in a historic staffing crisis that could take a decade to reverse.

Leniency in law and court

Critics also fault the Districts Youth Rehabilitation Act, which allows offenders under 25 to receive probation regardless of crime severity, and the Incarceration Reduction Act, which permits release at age 25 after serving part of a sentence. Title 16 of the D.C. Code limits the U.S. attorneys jurisdiction over violent juvenile crimes unless the victim dies.

Pirro said Tuesday the limits for her office are glaring, noting that under current law, she can seek adult charges for 16- and 17-year-olds only for offenses such as murder, rape, first-degree robbery, or burglary.

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If you shoot someone and dont kill them, I dont have jurisdiction, she said, describing family court as a place of yoga and ice cream socials rather than punishment.

She cited a case in which a 19-year-old convicted of shooting someone in the chest walked free with probation to attend college, calling it proof that current statutes are nonsense and need to change.

Unreliable ankle monitor policy replacing detention

A Washington Post investigation found that the Districts juvenile court system increasingly relies on GPS ankle monitors instead of secure detention, even for repeat violent offenders. The daily number of monitored youths has tripled since the mid-2000s, now averaging between 125 and 150, with judges ordering the devices for four out of five court-supervised juveniles.

The system depends on youths as young as 12 to keep the devices charged, a task many ignore. Some devices went dead for weeks without enforcement action, allowing teenagers to disappear or commit new crimes. One juvenile told the Washington Post he committed robberies while wearing a charged monitor because there was no point in complying.

In just two months last year, five youths died while wearing monitors, including a 16-year-old who had not charged his device for over two weeks before being shot and killed. Court officials have since switched to a longer-battery model but admitted the technology still contains many pitfalls for deterring dangerous behavior.

The DC courts make the problem even more strenuous

Smith also criticized the way D.C. Superior Court judges are chosen. A nominating commission, not the president alone, determines who can be a judge.

Theres the federal court system, and then theres the local court system in D.C., which is really a federal court system as well, Smith said. But there are real problems with the judges there  either letting those accused of violent crimes with lengthy rap sheets back out onto the street pending their trials, or imposing inappropriately light sentences in many cases."

A major hurdle the Trump administration faces with the local D.C. courts is that the president doesnt get to pick whoever he wants to nominate, like in any other federal court. The mayor gets to name two seats for the nominating commission, the city council gets one seat, the D.C. Bar gets two seats, local federal judges get to name one seat, and the president gets one seat.

"To my mind, thats unconstitutional," Smith contended.

Push for congressional action

Smith also said Congress needs to revise D.C. law to give the U.S. attorney broader authority to prosecute violent juvenile offenders, overhaul the court appointment process, and roll back local statutes that prevent juveniles committing crimes from obtaining more lenient penalties.

Meanwhile, Pirro said Tuesday she wants the public to understand the urgency. She noted that D.C. ranks among the top four U.S. cities for such crimes and that every juvenile homicide she has reviewed involved an illegal gun.

I guarantee you that every one of these individuals was shot and killed by someone who felt that they were never going to be caught, she said.

THIS DC NEIGHBORHOOD IS AS DANGEROUS AS JUAREZ. OTHERS ARENT MUCH BETTER

We are going to catch you, we are going to change the laws, and if youre 14, 15, 16, 17, were going to bring you into the justice system  no more of this," Pirro added.

The Washington Examiner contacted representatives for the D.C. Council and Schwalb's office.
The White House will vet Smithsonian content ahead of the United States's 250th birthday, ensuring its exhibits will be in line with the administration's historical vision.

White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, Domestic Policy Council head Vince Haley, and Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought sent a letter to Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch, saying they wanted the institution to show unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story, the Wall Street Journal reported. The initiative is part of President Donald Trump's March 27 executive order Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.

This initiative aims to ensure alignment with the presidents directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions, the Tuesday letter read.

Trump had laid out his plan for the Smithsonian early in his second term, bemoaning in his aforementioned executive order that the institution had come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology that promotes narratives that portray American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive.

The executive order was used last week to announce the restoration of a statue of Albert Pike, the only statue of a Confederate general in Washington, D.C. The statue had been torn down by rioters in 2020.

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As part of the Smithsonian overhaul, the White House will eye public exhibition text, online content, internal curatorial processes, exhibition planning, and the use of collections and artist grants, according to the Wall Street Journal. Particular focus will be directed to the Smithsonian's exhibitions celebrating the 250th birthday of the U.S. The White House's letter requested that the institution choose a representative to work directly with the administration to plan the 250th anniversary festivities.

The letter stressed that the administration doesn't intend to interfere with day-to-day operations of curators or staff but wants to support a broader vision of excellence that highlights historically accurate, uplifting, and inclusive portrayals of Americas heritage.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE TO REINSTALL STATUE OF CONFEDERATE GENERAL TOPPLED IN DC IN 2020

In a statement to the outlet, the Smithsonian said it would cooperate with the White House.

The Smithsonians work is grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history, the Smithsonian said. We are reviewing the letter with this commitment in mind and will continue to collaborate constructively with the White House, Congress, and our governing Board of Regents.
The chairman of Railway Board, Satish Kumar visited and inspected various sections of the East-West Corridor of the Kolkata Metro Railway today.

The Railway Board chairman spent a large part of the day inspecting various parts of the Green Line, examining in detail the passenger amenities and the readiness of the stretch. As the remaining leg of the East-West metro corridor is awaiting an inaugural, Mr Kumar is said to have checked the preparedness of this metro network today.

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He inspected various stretches between Howrah Maidan, Sealdah and Sector V of the corridor.

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Before the chairman, Braj Mohan Agrawal, member traction and rolling stock, MTRS, Railway Board also visited Metro Railway yesterday. During his visit, he inspected the stretch from Jatin Das Park to Noapara of the Blue Line in a Metro rake. After reaching Noapara, he held a high-level meeting with senior officers of metro railway. He inspected Noapara Carshed and Noapara to Jai Hind Biman Bandar stretch of Yellow Line in a Metro with senior Metro officials. He also inspected Jai Hind Biman Bandar Metro station where Metro officials apprised him of different passenger amenities going to be provided at the station.

The visit of the Railway Board officials and consecutive inspections has triggered anticipation of the final commissioning of the remaining stretch of the East-West Metro between Esplanade and Sealdah. With the expected visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kolkata next week, it is being anticipated by many that the Esplanade-Sealdah stretch along with the section between Noapara and Biman Bandar could see a green light next week. According to an official of the city Metro, the stretch is ready for commercial services and further preparations are in full swing. However, as the date of PMs visit is yet to be officially confirmed, the date of inauguration of the much-awaited Metro networks is yet to be finalised, according to sources.
Coming down heavily on the Election Commission of India (ECI), Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamul Congress national general secretary suggested it should dissolve the Lok Sabha and then go for countrywide Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

If the general election, which was held in 2024 on the basis of a faulty voter list, then the whole process should be declared as faulty. The Prime Minister, President, Vice-President, and all Union ministers must resign, by that logic. The Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh were held on a faulty voter list and so the MLAs should be asked to resign and then SIR will be carried out. The ECI is helping the BJP to secure its position. The ECI is working as an agent of the BJP.

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He was addressing the press outside the Netaji Subhas International Airport this morning.

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Mr Banerjee demanded that the ECI should file FIR against the former chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar under whose supervision the faulty voter list was published. Initiate action against him. He had supervised the publication of the faulty voter list, he said.

Mr Banerjee categorically said if the ECI deleted even one genuine voter in Bengal, then one lakh people will gherao the ECI office in New Delhi. The BJP has deprived Bengal for the past four years and now is trying to capture the power in Bengal by manipulating the voter list. We will not allow SIR in Bengal and will speak the language which the BJP understands.

Mr Banerjee asked if the election commission is an autonomous body then why the BJP is defending the ECI. The ECI is a neutral agency. It has no answer regarding SIR or else it could have replied to the questions that have been raised by the opposition. Yesterday the MPs were not only stopped by the police but they were dragged and taken to the police station. Even the women MPs were not spared. Our MP Mitali Bag felt sick. The ECI should not forget that we have been elected by people. What happened yesterday proves that if they truly had an answer, they would have met the MPs. Instead, they detained them, dragged women by their hair, lathi charged protesters, and made them sit in police stations. Our MP Mitali Bag, fell ill due to police brutality. This government behaves as if it owns the country, using every institution for its advantage. Now, it even seeks to take away citizens voting rights. We will not allow that.

Criticising the BJP, he said: The saffron party has converted the watch dog into a lap dog. It has destroyed the impartiality and sanctity of all the institutions. One voter was found to have exercised his franchise in different states. What is going on in the country. We are not going to tolerate the BJPs attitude to convert this country into its own property.
A day after the West Bengal government intimated the Election Commission of India (ECI) that it would not currently comply with the order from the commission, to suspend four election officials on Tuesday, summoned chief secretary Manoj Pant to the ECIs headquarter at New Delhi by 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Sources in the state secretariat said that Mr Pant, in all probability, will be present at the ECIs headquarters in New Delhi by 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

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The two officers in question are posted with two Assembly constituencies in two districts of the state for their involvement in wrongful addition of names in the electoral rolls of these two seats, the commission.

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On 8 August, the ECI had sent a reminder to Mr Pant on sending the compliance report over the commissions earlier direction to the state government to suspend these four election officers and asked the Trinamul Congress government to send the compliance report on this count by Monday.

However, on Monday, the chief secretary forwarded a communique to the commission, saying that the state government is yet to order any such disciplinary action against the four election officers, as directed by the poll body.

Instead, Pant said in the communique that an internal enquiry into the issue as well as a comprehensive review of the existing processes and procedures governing the conduct of the said exercise, have been undertaken.

As a first step, the chief secretary informed the ECI on Monday that the services of these four election officials have been withdrawn from electoral revision and election-related duties, and further action taken report would be submitted to the commission post completion of the enquiry.

The complications on the issue of disciplinary action against the four errant election officers started from the beginning, with chief minister Mamata Banerjee challenging the commissions order and saying that the state government would not take any action against the four officers since all of them were state government employees.

The main charges against these four election officers are that they had not only failed in performing duties as Electoral Registration Officers and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers while disposing of the applications but also violated the policy of data security while sharing their login credentials of the election registration database with unauthorised persons.

If proven guilty, the punishment of the erring individuals will be imprisonment for a term of at least three months, but it might extend to two years, and with a fine, as per legal provisions.
Jimmy Sengenberger is an investigative journalist, public speaker, and longtime local talk-radio host. Reach Jimmy online at Jimmysengenberger.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @SengCenter.
The stock market ended higher on Wednesday, erasing the previous sessions losses, with the Nifty closing above 24,600, led by buying across sectors.

At the close, the Sensex was up 304.32 points, or 0.38%, at 80,539.91, while the Nifty rose 131.95 points, or 0.54%, to settle at 24,619.35.

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The mid- and small-cap indices outperformed; the BSE Midcap gained 0.56%, while the BSE Smallcap advanced 0.58%.

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The overall market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms increased to 445.5 lakh crore from 443 lakh crore in the previous session.

Among the sectors, most indices ended higher, except Nifty PSU Bank (down 0.14%), Oil & Gas (down 0.05%), and FMCG (down 0.04%).

Nifty Healthcare surged 2.13%, Pharma advanced 1.73%, and Metal and Auto climbed 1.26% and 1.12%, respectively. Nifty Bank gained 0.25%, while Financial Services rose 0.39%.

On the Nifty, 36 stocks ended in the green. Top gainers included Apollo Hospitals Enterprise (+8.20%), Hindalco Industries (+5.09%), and Dr. Reddys Laboratories (+2.71%). The top losers were IndusInd Bank (-1.26%), Adani Ports (-0.72%), and ITC (-0.52%).

In the broader market, 109 stocks hit their 52-week highs, including Authum Investment & Infrastructure, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, Fortis Healthcare, HBL Power Systems, Indian Bank, JM Financial, Nuvoco Vistas, One 97 Communications, Star Cement, and TVS Motor Company.

Meanwhile, 104 stocks touched their 52-week lows, such as Bata India, Colgate-Palmolive (India), HFCL, Poly Medicure, Praj Industries, and Tejas Networks.

Paytm shares rose 4% after the RBI granted its subsidiary, Paytm Payments Services Ltd (PPSL), in-principle approval to operate as an online payment aggregator.

Apollo Hospitals Enterprise surged 8% after reporting a 42% year-on-year jump in consolidated net profit.

Positive global cues, supported by expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut, encouraged investors to cover short positions. Major European markets, including the UKs FTSE, Frances CAC 40, and Germanys DAX, also traded higher.
Commemorating the countrys 79th Independence Day, a series of live band performances by renowned armed forces bands of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Railway Protection Force (RPF), and the National Cadet Corps (NCC), will be organised at iconic locations across the national capital on Friday.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence stated that these musical events seek to add rhythm and grandeur to the nations festivities, offering citizens a memorable opportunity to experience patriotic fervor through stirring tunes and disciplined artistry.

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The locations of the performances, and, the respective bands performing at these locations are; India Gate (Indian Army band), Central Park, Connaught Place (Indian Navy Band), Kartavya Path (Indian Air Force Band), Buddha Park, Noida (Indian Coast Guard), Qutub Minar (National Cadet Corps Band), Vijay Chowk (Central Reserve Police Force Band), Purana Quila (indo Tibetan Border Police Band), Red Fort (Central Industrial Security Force Band), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sector 8, RK Puram (Sashastra Seema Bal band) , National Police Memorial (Border Security Force band), Nizamuddin Railway Station (Railway Protection Force band), and New Delhi Railway Station (Railway Protection Force band)

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The Ministry further added that military bands in India trace their roots to the colonial era, gradually evolving into a symbol of national unity and pride.

Over the decades, bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Indian Coast Guard have been integral to national ceremonies, victories, and solemn occasions. They have performed at major governmental events, state visits, and commemorations, their music resonating with themes of valor, sacrifice, and peace. Their precision, discipline, and musical prowess represent the ethos of the services they serve, it read.

This years performances are designed to take the celebrations beyond traditional venues, with bands playing at major public spaces, parks, and cultural hubs in Delhi. Audiences will be immersed in a rich repertoire of patriotic songs, martial music, and classical pieces, evoking pride and inspiring a sense of collective belonging.

Band performances will take place across the length and breadth of the country covering 28 States, 8 Union Territories and locations across 96 cities.
With the Independence Day round the corner, security in Delhi has been beefed up with over 10,000 police officers and 3,000 traffic personnel deployed across the city, an officer said.

He also mentioned that an advanced technology has been integrated into the arrangements to detect explosives and suspicious objects.

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The preparations are underway to ensure a safe and secure celebration of the 79th Independence Day on August 15 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

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Speaking about the security arrangements, Dinesh Kumar Gupta, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said, For 10 nights, restrictions have been imposed on our borders. We do not allow any commercial vehicles to enter Delhi. These restrictions will remain in place until the arrangements at Red Fort are over. We have restrictions on the ring road that goes towards Raj Ghat because there is movement of VIPs there.

Meanwhile, Yashwant Singh, Inspector RPF, in charge of New Delhi Railway Station, in his statement, said, We are on high alert because of Independence Day. Security personnel are deployed at all entry-exit gates, and luggage is being thoroughly scanned. Additional security personnel have been deployed on platforms and in other places. We are also taking the help of dog squads. We also conducted a flag march to create a sense of security among people.

S B K Singh, Commissioner of Police, chaired a meeting that was attended by the senior officers from Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh, accompanied by the senior officers of Central Intelligence/Enforcement Agencies.

A senior officer further added that the cameras can detect abandoned baggage and intrusive activities. Different zones will have customised alarm settings based on priority and sensitivity.

The officer continued by saying the Facial Recognition System (FRS) capabilities will allow for real-time and recorded video face matching, alerting the control room if any matches are found in the Watch List database.

Detailing additional security measures, it was disclosed that Number Plate Recognition (NPR) systems would be deployed this year, providing real-time 247 vehicle detection and recording. Delhi police plan to deploy over 700 CCTVs and more than 150 cameras with video analytics.

A high-level meeting was recently held at the Red Fort, attended by Central intelligence agencies and security personnel, to review and enhance security measures for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.
Bhumi Pednekar has voiced her concern over the Supreme Courts recent order allowing the relocation of thousands of stray dogs in Delhi to shelters.

The actress, who was last seen in the streaming series The Royals, turned to Instagram on Wednesday to share an emotional post about her own pet dog, Bruno, while highlighting the plight of Indias street dogs.

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In her post, Bhumi shared a series of heartwarming photos and videos of Bruno, recalling how he entered her life as a four-month-old pup. She revealed that when the team at YODA Mumbai rescued him, he had suffered terrible abuse with dislocated jaw and burnt tail.

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Bhumi Pednekar on stray dogs:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhumi Pednekar (@bhumipednekar)

All of this was done by little children who found joy in torturing an innocent soul. Not their fault. Its ours, for failing to instill empathy, co-existence and kindness, she wrote.

Calling Bruno a wise soul who is intelligent, kind, playful, nurturing, protective yet gentle, Bhumi Pednekar expressed her fear about what such a ruling could mean for the countless other stray dogs who know nothing but the streets they were born on.

The actress also acknowledged the decades-long efforts of street dog feeders who, without official support, have cared for these animals: feeding them, treating injuries, and even paying for sterilisation and vaccinations themselves.

Instead of punishing these animals or those who help them, Bhumi argued for long-term solutions such as stronger reforms, large-scale sterilisation drives, and consistent vaccination programs. She believes community-led initiatives for feeding and monitoring street dogs would be far more effective in managing their population and welfare.

Bhumi also touched on the deep historical and cultural connection between India and its native Pariah dogs. They have walked alongside us for over 4,500 years, she noted, pointing out references to them in the Rig Veda, the Mahabharata, and the Upanishads. In these ancient texts, dogs symbolised loyalty, dharma, companionship, and protection  values that, she said, they still represent today.

According to Bhumi, removing stray dogs en masse will not address the core issues, but will instead cause more cruelty and displacement. Her post ended with a heartfelt appeal: May there be empathy. May there be peace. May justice prevail.
With just a day left for the release of War 2, actor NTR is all fired up and excited, not just about the film, but about sharing the screen with Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan.

The movie hits theatres on August 14 in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil, and NTR promises its going to be madness.

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Speaking about the experience, NTR said with a big smile, War 2 is going to be crazy. The film has turned out really well. You will see the madness for yourself on August 14. Hrithik Roshan garu and I, in a way, started our careers around the same time.

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The Telugu star then went down memory lane, remembering the first time he saw Hrithik on the big screen. When Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai released back in 2000, I watched it and went mad, he admitted with a laugh. He was just amazing. Ive been admiring him ever since.

For NTR, working with Hrithik now feels like life coming full circle. He is one of the greatest dancers in the country right now. My journey started by admiring him, and after all these years, I got the chance to act and dance with him. Its been a dream.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yash Raj Films (@yrf)

Interestingly, NTR doesnt see War 2 as his Bollywood debut in the usual sense. Instead, he calls it a collaboration between industries.

This is not just NTR going to Hindi cinema, he explained. Its also Hrithik sir coming into Telugu cinema. Hes even given his own voice for the Telugu version and mouthed all the dialogues himself. That means a lot.

The actor was also quick to thank everyone who made his journey possible. Thanks to my family, fans, and well-wishers for blessing me. I am here today because of you.

Hrithik Roshan, who is returning as the much-loved character Kabir from the first War, has also been hyping up the sequel. Recently, he shared how thrilled he is to be back in the role.

This time, Kabir is even more intense, more emotional, and in a bigger dilemma than before, Hrithik said. Playing him again has been a joy, and War 2 is going to be something unmissable.

The film is directed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films. Its part of the ever-expanding YRF Spy Universe, which also includes hits like Pathaan and Tiger Zinda Hai.

Kiara Advani also joins the cast, adding glamour and freshness to the high-energy mix.

To make the experience even bigger, War 2 will release in Dolby Cinema across key global markets, including North America, the UK, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and more, apart from its massive Indian release.
Tamil Nadus Deputy Chief Minister and popular actor-producer Udhayanidhi Stalin has sent his warm wishes to superstar Rajinikanth, who is celebrating an incredible milestone: 50 years in the film industry.

On Wednesday, Udhayanidhi took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his excitement after catching an early screening of Rajinikanths latest film, Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film is going to release worldwide on Thursday, and Udhayanidhi couldnt stop praising it.

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I am truly delighted to congratulate our Superstar @rajinikanth sir on completing 50 glorious years in the film industry. Had the opportunity to get an early glimpse of his much-awaited movie #Coolie, releasing tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer and am sure it will capture the hearts of audiences everywhere, he wrote.

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Udhayanidhi Stalin on Rajinikanth and Coolie:

I am truly delighted to congratulate our Superstar @rajinikanth sir on completing 50 glorious years in the film industry. Had the opportunity to get an early glimpse of his much-awaited movie #Coolie, releasing tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer pic.twitter.com/qiZNOj5yKI  Udhay (@Udhaystalin) August 13, 2025

The deputy CM also extended his best wishes to the entire team, including Sun Pictures, veteran actor Sathyaraj, Aamir Khan, Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, music director Anirudh Ravichander, and others.

Coolie has already created massive buzz, with the makers planning a grand release in over 100 countries. The trailer, which dropped recently, has only heightened the anticipation.

From what it reveals, Rajinikanth plays a man who has been living a quiet life, but steps into action when his close friend, played by Sathyaraj, faces a serious threat. Despite his daughter (Shruti Haasan) warning him to stay out of trouble, he decides to help.

The star-studded cast is another reason for the hype. Alongside Rajinikanth, fans will see powerhouse performers like Telugu icon Nagarjuna, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, Kannada legend Upendra, Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir, and more.

However, the film has also stirred some discussion due to its certification. The Censor Board has cleared Coolie with an A (Adults Only) certificate because of its intense action and possibly strong content.

While hardcore fans are ready to rush to theatres, some feel that this rating could keep family audiences, especially children, from experiencing Rajinikanths magic on the big screen. This is important because a large portion of the superstars fanbase has always been families.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that Congress and the INDIA bloc were intended to send out a strong message to the country against the theft of votes (Vote Chori), an unprecedented act he had ever heard of.

What is happening in the country is a serious development, it is a threat to democracy. For instance, in Bihar 60 lakh voters have so far been deleted from the revised electoral rolls and not even a single name added, the senior Congress leader alleged.

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Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha

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Rahul Gandhi has submitted the relevant Vote Chori data. However, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is still demanding an affidavit from him, Gehlot noted.

Since it never happened in the past, Congress President Malikarjun Kharge, LoP Gandhi, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, NCP Chief Sharad Pawar, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, and other prominent leaders held a demonstration in New Delhi against this Vote Chori.

As part of this stir, today we in the Congress are holding a protest march and demonstration at the Shaheed Memorial here to press up on our demand against this Vote Chori.

Later, the three-time ex-CM participated in the march from the PCC headquarters here to the demonstration venue at the Shaheed Memorial.

Leader of the Opposition in the Rajasthan assembly Tika Ram Jully, AICC General and former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, Party state president Govind Singh Dotasra and several MPs, MLAs and other prominent leaders also participated in the protest march.

At the venue of the demonstration, LoP Jully and party state president Dotasra sought peoples support in the fight being waged by Gandhi. They said Gandhi raised voice and submitted his contention over the issue with evidence. He, in fact, is raising our voice, it is the common mans fight as his or her rights are being stolen.

The theft of vote, is the theft of right; the theft of the identity, they said, exhorting people to join in Gandhis fight for defending ones identity, defending ones right to vote.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) for faulty voter lists across various states, citing the poll bodys own admission.

If the ECs assessment is correct, and the government of India agrees with it, then the first step towards conducting a genuine Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is the immediate dissolution of the Lok Sabha, he stated in a post on his WhatsApp channel.

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The EC has stated that the voter lists across various states on the basis of which the GENERAL ELECTIONS were held barely a year ago in 2024 are FAULTY and riddled with IRREGULARITIES. If that is indeed the case, and if the GoI agrees with the ECs assessment, then the first step towards conducting a genuine SIR and STANDING ON MORAL HIGH GROUND is the IMMEDIATE DISSOLUTION OF LOK SABHA, Banerjee said in his post

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Banerjee emphasized that if the new Chief Election Commissioner is truly competent, the SIR should be implemented across the country, not selectively in poll-bound states. If one truly supports the idea of SIR, then as per the ECs own statement  the people of this country have been betrayed, he said.

Banerjee outlined a three-step plan, demanding that the Lok Sabha be dissolved, SIR be conducted nationwide, and fresh elections be held thereafter. Dissolve the House! Conduct SIR across the country! Go for elections and face the people! he said, urging the EC and the government to take immediate action.

His remarks have sparked a fresh debate on electoral reforms and the integrity of the electoral process in India. As the country grapples with concerns over voter list accuracy and the credibility of the electoral system, Banerjees demands are likely to resonate with many who are calling for greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Amid trade tensions with the United States over Russian oil purchase, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar is expected to visit Russia later this month.

According to reports, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on August 21.

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The two leaders are likely to discuss bilateral ties and issues of mutual interest.

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This comes days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on India  25 per cent reciprocal tariffs and a 25 per cent penalty for buying Russian oil.

India said that it imports oil from Russia, keeping in mind the energy needs of 140 crore Indians, and called out Washington for its own trade with Russia.

Last week, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

Doval, who was in Russia to discuss cooperation between India and Russia in multilateral formats, also held talks with the Secretary of the Russian Security Council, Sergey Shoigu.

Doval had also announced that the dates of Russian President Putins visit to India have been finalised.
BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Wednesday slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his criticism and charges against the Election Commission of India (ECI) as well as its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter roll in Bihar, citing examples from the grand old partys regime to rebut his claims.

Thakur, while addressing a press conference at the party headquarters in the national capital, dismissed Gandhis claims of vote theft and irregularities in the electoral process, and accused the Congress of attempting to undermine democratic institutions after suffering repeated defeats in several elections.

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The Congress has lost elections 90 times under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, and after every electoral defeat the party would look for new excuses. This time, they are seeing defeat in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, hence they are levelling baseless allegations against the Election Commission of India, the BJP MP said.

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In the counter attack, Thakur said that it was the Congress that laid the foundation for electoral corruption in India.

Citing examples from the past, he alleged that the Congress and the CPI conspired to defeat Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the constitution, in the very first general election in 1952.

They ran a vote theft business back then. Dr Ambedkar, a saint-like figure, was made to lose by just 14,561 votes, and from that moment, Congress started eroding the sanctity of elections, Thakur alleged.

Congress, he further said, introduced booth capturing in 1957 and went on to conduct large-scale rigging in 1987 in collaboration with the National Conference (NC).

Even Indira Gandhi once called voters a bunch of fools after losing elections. This has been the partys attitude whenever they face defeat, Thakur said.

On Rahul Gandhis claim that the number of voters were exponentially increased after 5 p.m. during the Maharashtra elections, Thakur termed it misleading and misguiding.

The Election Commission has been conducting SIR and listening to public complaints in Bihar, there are no problems encountered by people during the process. Yet Congress, instead of cooperating, is resorting to false accusations. They are insulting the voters of this country, Thakur asserted.
Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmirs Uri Sector on Wednesday morning.

An Indian Army soldier was killed during the anti-infiltration operation, the Army officials said, according to news agency ANI.

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The search operations are still underway in the area, the officials said, adding two terrorists were neutralised in the same area a few days ago.

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The Indian Army has foiled an infiltration bid in the Uri sector this morning. The Indian Army had killed two terrorists in the same area a few days ago. While foiling the infiltration bid today, one Indian Army soldier lost his life. Search operations are still joining on in the area, ANI quoted Indian Army officials as saying.

The development ccomes a day after the district magistrate Samba ordered a night curfew in areas up to 2 km from the International Border to support BSF operations and strengthen security.

The restriction will be enforced daily from 10 PM to 5 AM for the next two months, unless withdrawn earlier.

According to the order issued by District Magistrate Ayushi Sudan, the decision was taken in coordination with security agencies to enhance border monitoring and prevent unlawful activities by regulating civilian movement during night hours.

Read More: Night curfew imposed along Pakistan border in J-Ks Samba
As India and China look to thaw bilateral ties amidst US President Donald Trumps tariff threat, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is likely to visit India later this month.

According to news agency ANI, Yi is expected to take part in the Special Representative-level talks and meet National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister, Ajit Doval, who serves as Indias special representative.

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India and China, whose ties have been strained since the 2020 border standoff, are now seeking to mend their bilateral relationship amid major global developments, inclduing US President Donald Trumps imposition of 50 per cent tariffs on New Delhi and looming threat of similar measures on Beijing.

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Both countries have resumed high-levels talks. Last month, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks in Beijing. Jaishankar also met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the visit.

Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to meet President Jinping during his upcoming China visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin later this month.

While New Delhi has not confirmed Modis China visit, Beijing has welcomed the Indian PM for the SCO Summit.

Addressing a press briefing last week, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said, China welcomes Prime Minister Modi to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit.

He further added, We believe that with the concerted effort of all parties, the Tianjin summit will be a gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results, and the SCO will enter a new stage of high-quality development featuring greater solidarity, coordination, dynamism and productiveness.
Mounting its attack on Congress, the BJP accused the grand old party of being the mother of electoral fraud.

In a social media post on Wednesday, the BJP cited a series of alleged frauds that the Congress indulged in during the early years of independent India.

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It listed five instances between 1952 and 1987, saying Congress leaders, including former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, engaged in malpractices to secure victories in the elections, it said in the post, which also carried infographics.

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The first instance occurred in 1952, when Congress and Communist leaders colluded to defeat Dr BR Ambedkar in elections, it said.

With images of Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi in the social media post, the BJP captioned it: The mother of electoral fraud is Congress, adding the slogan, Congresss attack on democracy  1952, 1957, 1967, 1975, 1987 still continuing.

The second example cited by the BJP was from 1957, when Congress supporters allegedly carried out Indias first-ever booth capturing in Begusarai, Bihar.

It further accused the party of manipulating the 1967 Jammu and Kashmir elections, claiming that opposition nominations were rejected en masse, allowing the party to win 61 seats uncontested.

Former prime minister Indira Gandhi, it alleged, secured her 1975 Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat through rigging, an election result later challenged in court, leading to the imposition of the Emergency.

Another incident mentioned by the saffrom party was from 1987, when Congress, in alliance with the National Conference, allegedly rigged the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections  an event often cited by analysts as a trigger for the beginning of insurgency in the valley.

It comes amid an increasingly heated political climate, with both parties accusing each other on various fronts in the run-up to key state elections in Bihar, and the next years assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, on Wednesday, made a fervent appeal to voters, urging them not to let their right to vote be snatched away.

In a post on platform X, he emphasised the importance of asking questions and demanding answers, particularly in light of allegations of vote manipulation.

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Do not let your right to vote be snatched away. Ask questions, demand answers, this time! Raise your voice against #VoteChori. Free constitutional institutions from the clutches of the BJP, Kharge said in his post, stressing that protecting the Constitution and democracy is crucial, and voters must exercise their franchise to secure their rights.

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The controversy surrounds the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, which the opposition claims is an attempt to deprive people of their voter rights. The Congress party, led by Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, has been protesting against the alleged vote chori and demanding accountability from the Election Commission.

Meanwhile, the Congress has planned a series of programmes to take its allegations to the people, including:

Loktantra Bachao Mashaal Marches will be held at all district headquarters on August 14, the eve of Independence Day.

Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhodd rallies will be organised in all state headquarters between August 22 and September 7.

Signature Campaign will be conducted to save the right to vote and ensure peoples participation from September 15 to October 15.
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) conducted search operations at multiple locations in Delhi and Mumbai on Tuesday and Wednesday as part of an ongoing probe against Sandeepa Virk, who allegedly defrauded people by soliciting money under pretences through misrepresentation.

According to the agency, the accused was arrested on Tuesday under the provisions of PMLA 2002 and produced before the competent court that has granted her custody to the ED till Thursday, for further investigation.

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The anti-money laundering agency initiated investigation against the accused based on an FIR registered by the Police Station Phase-8, SAS Nagar, Punjab, under Sections 406 and 420 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.

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The ED probe revealed that an she allegedly acquired immovable property in her name by false cheating with promises. However, she claimed to be the owner of hyboocare.com, a website purportedly selling FDA-approved beauty products, the agency said.

As per the probe by the ED, the products listed on the site have been found to be non-existent, while the website lacks a user registration option and is plagued by persistent payment gateway issues.

Scrutiny of the website by the agency uncovered minimal social media engagement, an inactive communication platform contact number, and an absence of transparent organizational details, all of which reinforce the finding of non-genuine commercial activity.

These factors including limited product range, inflated pricing, false claims of FDA approval, and technical inconsistencies, indicate that the website serves as a front for laundering funds, the agency probe points out.

The ED has claimed that one person with whom she was allegedly in touch with was Angarai Natarajan Sethuraman, a former director of an erstwhile financial services company Reliance Capital.

The agency alleged that back in 2018, a large sum of public money belonging to RCFL was disbursed to Sethuraman by flouting prudent lending norms. However, Sethuraman said the allegations are entirely baseless. He added that the home loan he received from Reliance Capital was granted following due process and was secured by the property offered as collateral.

He vehemently denied any connection or involvement with Sandeepa Virk or any transactions related to her.
Former Rajasthan Minister and veteran leader Amin Khan has rejoined the Congress after a gap of nearly 16 months.

State Congress In-charge Sukhwinder Singh Randhawa issued the formal order on Tuesday, revoking Khans expulsion.

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Amin Khan was expelled from the party on April 26, 2024, following a complaint by Barmer-Jaisalmer MP Ummedaram Beniwal, accusing him of anti-party activities during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

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He was alleged to have supported Independent candidate Ravindra Singh Bhati instead of the Congress nominee.

Randhawa said that Khan has made repeated attempts at the Pradesh Congress Committee for his reinstatement.

Looking at his age and his contribution towards the Congress, Khans suspension is immediately revoked, he added.

Following the announcement of his reinstatement, Khan posted Satyamev Jayate on his official X account.

Khan had made repeated attempts to rejoin the party, including lobbying in Delhi.

Recently, during the visit of the Rajasthan party In-charge, state party president, former Chief Minister, and Deputy Chief Minister to Barmer, his supporters staged demonstrations and pressed leaders to restore his membership.

Rajasthan Congress In-charge Randhawa, in his order, said that Khan was expelled for indiscipline and anti-party conduct during the Lok Sabha polls, as per the complaint from MP Ummedaram Beniwal.

This is not the first time Khan has faced disciplinary action  back in 2011, he was compelled to resign as a Minister after making a controversial statement about then President Pratibha Patil.

Khan, in his public statements, has said that he has dedicated his entire life to the Congress and intends to continue working for the partys interests.
In a move to reset ties, India and China are likely to resume direct flight services as early as next month.

As per the reports, the Indian government has asked the carriers such as Air India and Indigo to start flights to China at an early notice.

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India-China tensions became tense after Galwan Valley clash in eastern Ladakh in June 2020. The ties between the two countries eroded after the incident as it marked the most serious military confrontation.

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After the clash, both countries increased troop deployments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and held multiple rounds of military and diplomatic negotiations. While some issues lingered for years, a major breakthrough occurred last year with the pullback of forces from eastern Ladakhs Depsang and Demchok plains. The process, which included removing troops, tents, and temporary infrastructure, was completed on October 30.

Although some pullbacks have occurred at certain flashpoints in recent years, several disputes remain unsettled, continuing to strain relations.

Meanwhile, on Monday India suspended Air Indias flights to Washington amid tensions with US due to latters imposing of steep tariff on Indian goods.

The U.S. has imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, on top of the earlier 25%, raising the total duty to 50%.
Independence Day Tricolour Rules: Each year, as August 15 draws near, the view of the Indian tricolour waving in houses, schools, offices, and public spaces brings patriotism to the air. But whereas everyone enjoys waving or hoisting the flag on Independence Day, there are certain regulations that every citizen needs to abide by. These regulations are not formalities, they are a sign of respect towards our country and nation.

This year, while gearing up to celebrate Indias Independence Day, heres a straightforward and easy-to-understand guide to dos and donts for hoisting the national flag, according to the Flag Code of India and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act.

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Hoisting the Tricolour: Then and Now

Historically, the national flag was only allowed to be raised at sunrise and brought down by sunset. The premise was that the flag must be seen during the day, as a metaphor for the light and optimism of the country.

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Yet in 2022, the government modified the Flag Code of India, introducing a significant change: now you can hoist the flag even at night, as long as it is well lit so that its still easily seen.

On Independence Day, the flag is raised, not just unfurled. This implies that it begins from the bottom of the pole and is quickly pulled up to the top before being unfolded. This gesture signifies the historical moment in 1947 when India emerged from colonial domination into freedom.

The Dos: How to hoist the flag respectfully

If youre planning to hoist the tricolour this Independence Day, here are the key points to remember:

1. Hoist it briskly, lower it slowly: When raising the flag, do it quickly and with energy. When bringing it down, do so gently, showing dignity and respect.

2. Saffron on top: If the flag is vertical, the saffron band must be on the left (facing the audience). If horizontal, saffron should always be on top.

3. Accord it a place of honor: The national flag must always be accorded the most prominent place and should never be superseded by any other flag or ornament.

4. Be neat and unblemished: The flag must be clean, without any tears and not faded. A torn flag should be replaced.

5. Make of proper material: The flag can be composed of hand-spun, hand-woven, or machine-produced cotton, polyester, wool, or silk khadi bunting, as permitted by the Flag Code.

6. Any day, any place: Private citizens, schools, offices, and institutions have been allowed to fly the flag on any day of the year since the 2002 changes, provided they comply with the regulations.

7. At night, keep it lit: If flying the flag at night, make sure to provide the flag with sufficient lighting to make it easily visible.

8. Maintain the correct proportions: The flag should always maintain its length-to-width ratio of 3:2 irrespective of the size.

9. Special occasions: On statue or monument unveiling ceremonies, the flag can be utilized as a covering but should never touch the ground or floor.

The Donts: What not to do with the tricolour

In addition to the regulations regarding the hoisting of the flag, there are rigorous guidelines regarding what should never be done:

1. Never dip the flag: Never lower the flag in salute to any person or thing.

2. Never fly it upside down: Saffron should always be at the top; an upside-down flag signifies distress and disrespect.

3. Dont let it touch the ground, floor, or water: The flag should always be held or displayed in a manner that lifts it above such surfaces.

4. No commercial usage: The flag should not be used for advertising, costumes, cushion covers, napkins, or any other decorative purposes, except in special permitted instances such as paper flags used on a small scale during national events.

5. No draping over buildings or vehicles: It should not be draped over buildings, automobiles, trains, or platforms, except for particular state or military funerals.

6. Dont put other flags on top of it: The national flag should always be in the uppermost position and never under any other flag.

7. Dont write or print on it: The flag should be kept plain with no slogans, words, or any markings.

8. Not to be worn below the waist: The flag or its design may not be used as clothes or ornaments below the waist level.

9. No damage or public insult: It is a criminal offence under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, to tear, burn, or mutilate the flag knowingly and intentionally in public.

10. Dont keep it negligently: Folding it in a wrong manner or keeping it in unclean, moist areas is disrespectful and may ruin the material.

Since the Flag Code was amended in 2002, the tricolour is no longer reserved for official use or for government offices alone. All citizens have the right to fly it, in a house, a shop, an office, or even in a personal car, as long as it is done properly and with respect.

The saffron color symbolizes sacrifice and courage, the white symbolizes peace and truth, and the green symbolizes faith and prosperity. In the center is navy-blue Ashoka Chakra with 24 spokes, symbolizing justice, movement, and the eternal wheel of law.

On August 15, 2025, as the tricolour is hoisted at the Red Fort by the Prime Minister, millions of Indians across the country will be standing in attention, singing the national anthem, and experiencing the pride of being Indian. But above all the celebrations, its also a day to be mindful of our responsibilities as citizens, one of which is to show respect to the symbols of the country.
Congress Pawan Khera on Wednesday condemned criticism of party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra by Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar after she accused Tel Aviv of genocide in Palestine.

Khera sharply commented on the ambassador, stating that his targeting of a sitting Member of Parliament is both unprecedented and intolerable.

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Taking to X, he said, That the ambassador of a state accused of genocide worldwide would target a sitting Member of the Indian Parliament is both unprecedented and intolerable. It is a direct affront to the dignity of Indian democracy.

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 Will you address the Israeli Ambassadors public attempt to intimidate Smt. Priyanka Gandhi? Or has freedom of speech in India now begun to be regulated from Israel?

 No amount of deflection or whitewashing can obscure the facts. The international community is witnessing, in real time, the killing of civilians in Gaza  including those queuing for aid. The world sees the heartbreaking images emerging from Gaza every day. It will neither forget nor forgive.

That the ambassador of a state accused of genocide worldwide would target a sitting Member of the Indian Parliament is both unprecedented and intolerable. It is a direct affront to the dignity of Indian democracy.@DrSJaishankar  Will you address the Israeli Ambassadors public https://t.co/mHlFlDNoZi  Pawan Khera (@Pawankhera) August 12, 2025

Tagging Jaishankar, the Congress leader demanded that the Israeli diplomats attempt to publicly intimidate Priyanka Gandhi be slammed.

Apart from Mr Khera, the Congress Gaurav Gogoi also slammed the Israeli ambassador.

What is shameful is your deceit. Israel Killed 25,000 Hamas terrorists. The terrible cost in human lives derives from Hamass heinous tactics of hiding behind civilians, their shooting of people trying to evacuate or receive assistance and their rocket fire. Israel facilitated 2 https://t.co/e3lSUwfmXH  Reuven Azar (@ReuvenAzar) August 12, 2025

The disparaging comments made by a foreign Ambassador against a Member of Parliament of India is a serious breach of privilege. Even if the Union Government is silent, the Parliament cannot remain a passive spectator he said on X.

Vadra had tweeted, The Israeli state is committing genocide. It has murdered over 60,000 people, 18,430 of whom were children. It has starved hundreds to death, including many children, and is threatening to starve millions.

She further condemned global silence, stating, Enabling these crimes by silence and inaction is a crime in itself, and criticised the Indian government, adding, It is shameful that the Indian Government stands silent as Israel unleashes this devastation on the people of Palestine.

In response to her remarks, Azar said, What is shameful is your deceit. Israel killed 25,000 Hamas terrorists. The terrible cost in human lives derives from Hamass heinous tactics of hiding behind civilians, their shooting of people trying to evacuate or receive assistance, and their rocket fire.
The BJPs top leadership in Kerala on Wednesday closed ranks around Union Minister of State for Tourism and Petroleum Suresh Gopi, as he faced mounting attacks from the Congress-led UDF and the CPI(M) over alleged irregularities in his 2024 Lok Sabha election victory from Thrissur.

BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar said any alleged illegality in connection with a candidates election should be raised before the Election Commission or the courts, instead of spreading lies to fool and provoke the public.

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He accused the CPI(M) and the Congress of colluding to mislead the people by alleging widespread voter fraud in the 2024 Thrissur Lok Sabha election.

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Chandrasekhar questioned the timing of the allegations, pointing out that they were being raised one-and-a-half years after Suresh Gopis victory. He said such matters should be addressed through a formal complaint or election petition.

They do not do that. Instead, they try to provoke the public with lies or divert peoples attention with propaganda. It is all a show, he claimed.

He further alleged that such dramas were being orchestrated by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as elections approach.

Meanwhile, Suresh Gopi reached Thrissur and met BJP workers injured in police action during a protest on Tuesday. He received a grand welcome at Thrissur railway station but did not respond to media queries about the allegations. Former state BJP chief K. Surendran said the party, which ran Gopis campaign, would respond on his behalf.

There is no need for Suresh Gopi to respond, Surendran said, adding that those aggrieved should approach the Election Commission of India or the courts. He questioned why the Congress and CPI(M), who now claim thousands of fake votes were added, failed to detect or act on it earlier.

On Tuesday, senior Congress leader and former Thrissur MP TN Prathapan filed a complaint seeking a criminal investigation against Suresh Gopi, alleging that he submitted a false affidavit claiming more than six months domicile in the constituency before filing his nomination for the 2024 elections.

Prathapan claimed Gopis voter registration transfer to Thrissur was illegal and part of a criminal conspiracy. According to him, Gopis name was added to booth number 115 in Thrissur despite the Representation of the People Act allowing only permanent residents to vote in a given booth.

He alleged that Gopi and his family have long lived at house number 22/1788 in the Sasthamangalam division of the Thiruvananthapuram constituency, where their names still appear on the voter list, even after Gopi became a Union Minister.

Earlier on Monday, CPI leader VS Sunil Kumar, the runner-up in the Thrissur election, alleged clear manipulation in the electoral roll that facilitated Gopis win.

Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Tuesday demanded a re-election in Thrissur, citing widespread allegations of voter fraud before and after the polls. He claimed that between 30,000 and 60,000 fake votes may have been added to the rolls.

Thrissur witnessed heightened political tensions on Wednesday as BJP workers marched to the City Police Commissioners office to protest the alleged attack on party workers and the camp office of Union Minister and MP Suresh Gopi by CPM activists.

The march, led by K. Surendran and state general secretary Shobha Surendran, was stopped by police barricades near the Commissioners office. Waving party flags, BJP workers climbed onto the barricades and refused to disperse, even after police used water cannons three times.
Fire crews have extinguished brush fires along Interstate 25 from mile markers 86 to 88, according to a Facebook post by the Pueblo County Sheriff's Office.
Preparations are in full swing for the Braj regions grandest religious celebration  Shri Krishna Janmashtami on August 16. This year marks the 5,252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, and Mathura is brimming with devotion and excitement.

According to the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, the city alone is expected to welcome over 5 million devotees during the festivities. With massive footfall anticipated, elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure safety, comfort, and a seamless experience for visitors. Across the city, small and large stages have been set up where nearly 1,000 artists will present vibrant cultural performances.

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UP Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh shared that Mathura and Vrindavan will host three days of grand Shobha Yatras, from main roads to narrow lanes, immersing visitors in the spiritual and cultural essence of Braj. From August 15 to 17, coinciding with a three-day holiday, pilgrims and tourists from across India and abroad are arriving in large numbers. Through traditional tableaux, cultural programs, and interactive activities, the celebrations will bring alive the life and divine plays of Lord Krishna.

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Wide-scale preparations have been made in Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, and Gokul. Our aim is to ensure that every visitor returns with a heart full of devotion, joy, and an unforgettable spiritual experience, Singh said. Brajs rich heritage must reach every corner of the world.

The minister further highlighted the festive fervor across Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan. Streets of Mathura are being adorned with tableaux of Krishnas childhood pastimes, while temples are being decorated with flowers, facade lighting, rangoli, and oil lamps. On August 15, Independence Day will be marked with a grand Shobha Yatra from Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, followed by a series of devotional processions across Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan, creating an atmosphere of pure devotion.

The celebrations will feature performances by folk artists from Braj, Bundelkhand, Rajasthan, and Haryana. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance forms like Rai, Kachhi Ghodi, and Gujri, while bhajan troupes from ISKCON and Barsanas Radha Rani Temple will fill the evenings with devotional music.
The Central Library of the University of Patanjali on Wednesday marked the National Library Day in honour of the father of library science in India, Dr. S.R. Ranganathan, on his birth anniversary.

National Library Day is celebrated across the country on 12 August every year.

Speaking on the occasion, Patanjali University vice chancellor Prof Mayank Kumar Agarwal said that a library is not merely a place for collecting books but it is the centre for the dawn of knowledge.

Even in the age of artificial intelligence, there is no substitute for a book, he said.

Prof Agarwal further described books as the real intelligence, saying that nothing can be considered a substitute for the human mind, because books enhance human sensitivity.

Head of the Faculty of Humanities and Oriental Studies, Prof. Sadhvi Devpriya, in her address, said that India has always been a worshipper of knowledge.

Without knowledge, no person can attain true freedom, she said, adding that India has held the status of Vishwaguru (world teacher) since ancient times due to its tradition and culture of knowledge, and that today there is a need to re-establish that tradition.

Highlighting the concept of Readers are Leaders, she called upon everyone to make India a Vishwaguru once again.

Meanwhile, Dean (Academics) of the university, Prof. Ritwik Bisariya, urged students to spend more and more time in the library so that they can make the maximum use of the library and knowledge resources.

On this occasion, the universitys Swami Aarshdev, Head of the Department of Naturopathy and Yoga Therapy Prof. Toran Singh, Central Library President Ruchi Dheeman, Sangita, Rishikant, and Shekhar, along with Patanjali Ayurved Colleges Library President Prashant Vashisth and Assistant Library President Tanya Kimoti, as well as all faculty heads, department heads, faculty members, and students were present.

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Police CID (Security) Intelligence on Tuesday arrested a suspected Pakistani spy from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. The accused, Mahendra Prasad (32), was employed as the manager of the DRDO Guest House at the Chandan Field Firing Range.

He was allegedly in constant touch with a Pakistani intelligence handler and was leaking sensitive information about Indias defence activities.

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CID (Security) IG Dr. Vishnukant said that in view of Independence Day celebrations, Rajasthan CID Intelligence has been maintaining heightened surveillance on anti-national and subversive activities.

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During this monitoring, information surfaced about Mahendra Prasad, a contractual worker at the DRDO Guest House.

A native of Palyun, Almora (Uttarakhand), he was suspected of engaging in espionage. Investigations revealed that Prasad was in contact with a Pakistani intelligence agency through social media.

He was allegedly supplying his handler with details about the movement of DRDO scientists and Indian Army officers who visit the Chandan Field Firing Range for missile and weapon trials. This facility in Jaisalmer is a critical site for testing strategic defence equipment.

Following his detention, Prasad underwent joint interrogation by security agencies, and his mobile phone was subjected to a thorough technical analysis.

The investigation confirmed that he had shared sensitive information related to DRDO operations and Indian Army activities with his Pakistani handler.

Based on the evidence, CID Intelligence formally arrested Mahendra Prasad on charges of espionage.

Also read: Night curfew imposed along Pakistan border in J-Ks Samba

Authorities are now probing the extent of the security breach and whether others were involved in the information network.

The arrest highlights the ongoing threat posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting Indias strategic establishments.

Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding national security and have urged all personnel, especially those working in sensitive areas, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious approaches immediately.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will spearhead the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on Friday, where he will unfurl the national flag and address the nation. This years celebrations will reflect the theme Naya Bharat, celebrating the countrys transformative journey through inclusive development, technological advancement, and national pride.

In a significant move towards public participation, around 5,000 special guests from across the country including achievers in sports, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and social development, have been invited to witness the historic event at the Red Fort. The special invitees include medal winners from the Special Olympics 2025, champions of the Khelo India Para Games, outstanding farmers, entrepreneurs from tribal and SC/ST communities, youth authors, Anganwadi workers, Swachhta workers, and My Bharat volunteers, among many others.

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According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, Prime Minister Modi will be received at the Red Fort by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. He will be formally welcomed by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, who will lead him to the saluting base where a combined Guard of Honour will be presented.

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This year, the Indian Air Force is the coordinating service for the ceremonial proceedings. The Guard of Honour will include 96 personnel, comprising contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Delhi Police, led by Wing Commander AS Sekhon. The respective contingents will be commanded by Major Arjun Singh (Army), Lt Commander Komaldeep Singh (Navy), Squadron Leader Rajan Arora (Air Force), and Additional DCP Rohit Rajbir Singh (Delhi Police).

Following the inspection, the Prime Minister will ascend the ramparts of the Red Fort, greeted by the Chiefs of the three Services and the Chief of Defence Staff. The national flag will be hoisted by the Prime Minister, assisted by Flying Officer Rashika Sharma, in synchrony with a 21-gun salute fired by the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial), using indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns under the command of Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat.

As the Tricolour is raised, flower petals will be showered over the venue by two Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters, led by Wing Commanders Vinay Poonia and Aditya Jaiswal. One of the helicopters will display the national flag, while the other will carry a flag symbolizing Operation Sindoor, Indias recent military success that will be a key feature of this years celebrations.

In a strong visual tribute, Operation Sindoors logo will appear on view cutters, floral decorations, and even on official invitation cards, which also carry a watermark of the Chenab Bridge, representing the rise of a new and modern India.

At the end of the Prime Ministers address, over 2,500 cadets from the NCC and My Bharat volunteers will sing the national anthem. These youth participants, seated at Gyanpath opposite the Red Fort ramparts, will form the Naya Bharat logo, embodying the aspirations of a young and forward-looking India.

More than 1,500 individuals dressed in traditional attire, representing various states and Union Territories, will also attend the event, showcasing Indias cultural diversity.

For the first time, evening band performances will be conducted pan-India on Independence Day, featuring military and paramilitary bands including those from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, CAPFs, RPF, NCC, and others. These musical events, aimed at fostering patriotic fervor, will take place at over 140 key locations across the country.

The Ministry of Defence emphasized that this years celebrations are designed to go beyond traditional protocols, bringing the spirit of independence closer to the people and highlighting stories of courage, inclusion, and progress that define the nations present and future.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi slammed Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for ordering the closure of meat shops and slaughter houses on Independence Day, terming the move as callous and unconstitutional.

Taking to X, he said, Many municipal corporations across India seemed to have ordered that slaughterhouses and meat shops should be closed on 15th August. Unfortunately, GHMC has also made a similar order. This is callous and unconstitutional. Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating independence day? 99% of Telanganas people eat meat. These meat bans violate peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition & religion.

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Many municipal corporations across India seemed to have ordered that slaughterhouses and meat shops should be closed on 15th August. Unfortunately, @GHMCOnline has also made a similar order. This is callous and unconstitutional. Advertisement Whats the connection between eating meat and  Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) August 13, 2025

Meanwhile, sharing his media interaction on Fatehpur Maqbara alleged attack, he trained guns at BJP stating that attack in presence of police showed how much BJP hated Muslim.

While talking to media persons outside Parliament, he said, The attack on the mausoleum in the presence of police is proof of how much the BJP government hates Muslims. My conversation with the media on the Fatehpur issue.

Earlier in the day, tensions flared in Abu Nagar after members of Hindu organizations, including the Bajrang Dal, gathered near an old tomb they claimed was a temple. Some individuals allegedly entered the protected site, under the Archaeological Department, vandalizing parts of the structure and demanding to offer prayers.

Owaisis comments came amid a series of municipal directives ordering the closure of meat shops and slaughterhouses during upcoming festivals. On Tuesday, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation in Maharashtra announced a ban on animal slaughter and meat sales within city limits on August 15 and 20.

The August 15 closure coincides with Gokul Ashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, while August 20 marks the start of Paryushan Parva, a major Jain festival observed with fasting and prayers. The civic body warned of strict action for violations. Similar orders have been issued by the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation in Thane district for August 15, and by the Malegaon Municipal Corporation.
Amid Opposition stir against alleged electoral malpractices in the country, BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya claimed on Wednesday that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had become a voter in India even before she could acquire Indian citizenship.

Sonia Gandhis tryst with Indias voters list is riddled with glaring violations of electoral law. This perhaps explains Rahul Gandhis fondness for regularising ineligible and illegal voters, and his Opposition to the SIR, Malviya said in a post on X, criticising Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.

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The BJP official made the remarks after Congress criticised alleged irregularities in the voters list and opposed the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.

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Sonia Gandhis name, Malviya said, first appeared on the electoral rolls in 1980  three years before she obtained Indian citizenship, when she still held Italian citizenship.

At the time, he further said, the Gandhi family lived at 1, Safdarjung Road, the official residence of the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi. The voters registered at that address were Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi and Maneka Gandhi.

The electoral rolls for the New Delhi parliamentary constituency were revised with January 1, 1980, as the qualifying date. During the revision, Sonia Gandhis name was added at serial number 388 in polling station 145, he claimed.

This entry was a clear violation of the law, which mandates Indian citizenship for voter registration, Malviya alleged.

Following an outcry in 1982, her name was deleted, but it reappeared in 1983.

Malviya pointed out that in the fresh revision that year, Sonia Gandhi was listed at serial number 236 in polling station 140, with January 1, 1983, as the qualifying date  even though she was granted Indian citizenship only on April 30, 1983.

In other words, Sonia Gandhis name entered the electoral rolls twice without meeting the basic citizenship requirement  first in 1980 as an Italian citizen, and then again in 1983, months before she legally became a citizen of India, he said.

Questioning why it took her 15 years after marrying Rajiv Gandhi to accept Indian citizenship, he said it was a blatant electoral malpractice.

He also attached an extract from the 1980 electoral rolls to the post to prove his point.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Wednesday underlined that synergy between government and industry will be critical to unlocking the next phase of IndiaSingapore relations.

Speaking after attending the third IndiaSingapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) in New Delhi, Jaishankar thanked Singaporean ministers for their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between the two nations.

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The ISMR discussions focused on six pillars of cooperation: digitalisation, skill development, sustainability, healthcare, connectivity, and advanced manufacturing.

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The Indian delegation included Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Electronics & IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Singaporean side was led by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, along with ministers K Shanmugam, Vivian Balakrishnan, Josephine Teo, Tan See Leng, and Jeffrey Siow.

Jaishankar noted in a post on X that the ISMR also engaged with the IndiaSingapore Business Roundtable (ISBR) delegation, stressing that synergy between Government and Industry is key to unlocking the next phase of IndiaSingapore ties.

The Ministry of External Affairs welcomed the visiting Singaporean ministers on Tuesday, calling the ISMR a unique mechanism that continues to bolster the bilateral CSP.

IndiaSingapore relations were elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Singapore in September 2024. With shared history, mutual trust, and cooperation across multiple sectors, ties have deepened in recent years.

The ISMR, envisioned by PM Modi, held its first meeting in New Delhi in September 2022, its second in Singapore in August 2024, and the third this week in New Delhi.
Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday reiterated that he may boycott the upcoming state elections, accusing the Election Commission of large-scale irregularities.

Tejashwi announced that from August 17, he will join the Vote Rights Yatra with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, during which they will meet the public and discuss the issue.

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After the yatra, we will seriously consider whether to participate in the Assembly elections or not. When the Election Commission has already decided everything, it can also be considered that we do not participate, he said.

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He alleged that the Commission is robbing votes at the behest of the BJP. Citing examples, he claimed that Muzaffarpur Mayor and senior BJP leader Nirmala Devis name appears in two separate voter lists within the same constituency, with two different EPIC cards and mismatched ages.

He further alleged that her two brothers-in-law also hold duplicate registrations with separate IDs.

Tejashwi Yadav also pointed out that two EPIC numbers of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha were raised by the RJD, and only then did the Election Commission serve notice to him.

More interestingly, Sinhas name appeared in two districts, and according to my knowledge, the district administration of only one district has served notice to him, Yadav said.

Tejashwi also claimed that the BJPs Bihar in-charge Bhikhu Bhai Dalsania is registered in Bihars voter list despite being from Gujarat.

Last time in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, he voted in Gujarat, removed his name from there, and now he will vote in Patna. After elections, he might again get his name removed here and vote in Gujarat, Tejashwi charged.

The RJD leader alleged serious irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, claiming the BJP has been rendered speechless as revelations emerge.

He criticised the Election Commission for not holding a press conference on the matter and vowed to expose flaws in the SIR process.

Earlier, the BJP used agencies like the ED and CBI; now it is using the Election Commission, Tejashwi said.

Recalling the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, Yadav alleged that he lost by 12,000 votes in one seat and that his party was deliberately made to lose 10 seats.

This is all a game of vote theft, he claimed.

With the Assembly elections just months away, the voter list controversy is emerging as a flashpoint between the ruling NDA and the opposition Mahagathbandhan.
In an attempt to scout for foreign investment, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Wednesday said he would embark on an official tour of the United Kingdom and Germany in the first week of September.

I am proceeding on a two-nation tour of Europe to visit Germany and England in September to attract investment. It is in continuation of my official foreign visits for the same purpose undertaken earlier. Last year, the visit to Dubai, Singapore, Japan and Spain had helped bring in Rs 10,000 crore investment with many Multinational companies setting shop here providing 30 lakh jobs, directly and indirectly, he told the DMK District Secretaries meeting, held at the party headquarters on the arterial Anna Salai in Chennai.

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It is no mere rhetoric, the data released by the Union Government had revealed that Tamil Nadu is the only state in the country to register double-digit economic growth. It was during the government of Kalaignar (late Karunanidhi) 15 years ago that the state recorded this feat. It is heartening that we have achieved it now, he said.

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The DMK government of Stalin had set an ambitious target of making Tamil Nadu a One Trillion Dollar economy by 2030. With elections just eight months away, this could be his last foreign tour in this government.

According to official sources, Stalin, during his UK visit will also address students and academicians at the prestigious Kings College, London (KCL). Renowned academic Christophe Jaffrelot, who is professor of Sociology and an expert on South Asia at KCL, has written extensively on India politics, including the Dravidian movement.

Known for its advancement in engineering and technology besides manufacturing, Germany is billed as a key stop for securing investment in high tech sectors like energy and automobiles. During the trip, expected to last for nearly 7 days, the Chief Minister would hold meetings with the Tamil diaspora as well.

While the Chief Minister boasts of his foreign tours, the opposition has questioned the results of his previous visits. Pattalai Makkal Katchi (PMK) president Anbumani Ramadoss, in a statement, has sought a white paper on the investments from abroad attracted by Stalins earlier visits and their fruition.

Earlier, the DMK district secretaries had condemned the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. A resolution adopted at the meeting said vote theft is a threat to free and fair elections. The mass deletion of 65 lakh voters in Bihar will uproot democracy. The Election Commission is hand in glove with the BJP-led Union Government and is complicit in the electoral malpractices of the BJP, making democracy itself a laughing stock.
The Uttar Pradesh government has reiterated that fertilizer stocks are sufficient across the state and urged farmers to avoid hoarding.

According to the Agriculture Department officials here on Wednesday, fertilizer sales during the Kharif season have exceeded last years levels, with 29.52 lakh metric tons sold from April 1 to August 12, 2025, compared to 24.80 lakh metric tons in the same period of 2024.

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Fertilizer sales till August 12, 2025, are 4.71 lakh metric tons higher than last year, the Agriculture Department reported.

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UP Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi said stocks are adequate and urged farmers not to hoard, advising them to buy only as needed. He directed officials to monitor availability in every district and reminded farmers that grievance cells are in place to address any issues.

He has also issued a stern warning to those involved in overpricing or black-marketing of fertilizers. He instructed the officials in districts to conduct inspections from time to time, establish communication with farmers, and resolve their problems.
An out-of-control structure fire that forced evacuations in Pagosa Springs has begun to be contained as fire lines held throughout Monday, according to Archuleta County officials.

Located about 11 miles west of the The Springs Resort and hot springs in Pagosa Springs, the Oak fire ignited Sunday and grew to 150 acres before it reached 14% containment, lowering it to 75 acres as of Tuesday morning, according to incident officials.

"There are still many active hot spots in the area, and fire crews will continue to work throughout the night and tomorrow morning on the perimeter and interior sections to ensure that all hazards near residences are addressed," the Archuleta County Sheriff's Office said in a Facebook post Monday night. "The evacuation area is still not safe for citizen to return."

According to the office, the pre-evacuation notice for areas east of Elk Park Subdivision to North Pagosa Boulevard and Martinez Canyon has been lifted.

A Facebook post by the office Tuesday afternoon stated over 100,000 gallons of water and 80,000 gallons of retardant was dropped on Sunday.

A mandatory evacuation order that was issued Sunday remained in place Tuesday for a 1-mile radius around 38 Spruce Circle in Aspen Springs, incident officials said.

On Sunday, Gov. Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency to support response efforts in Archuleta County in the southwestern part of the state. Polis also authorized the use of the National Guard to bolster firefighting efforts if necessary.

On Monday afternoon, the Federal Emergency Management Agency authorized a fire management assistance grant to aid with firefighting costs.

FEMA determined that the Oak fire's rapid spread and proximity to 5,100 buildings and 2,000 homes "threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster," according to a Monday news release.

Stoner Mesa fire

Another fire sparked in the San Juan National Forest doubled in size overnight. Ignited on July 28, the Stoner Mesa fire burned 6,618 acres and is at zero percent containment Tuesday, according to incident information website InciWeb.

The fire in Dolores County, near Rico, grew by more more than 3,000 acres overnight and was at 6,617 acres Tuesday morning, officials said.

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During a community meeting on the fire Tuesday evening, the district ranger for the Dolores Fire District, Nick Mustoe, told those in attendance he believes fighting the fire on the mesa tops is a good plan after being "handed a pretty rough deck of cards" with fire conditions and terrain.

"I want this fire contained as quickly and as small as possible, that [way] we can be successful," Mustoe said. "That's where you're seeing us come up on the mesa tops where we think we can be successful."

"The firefighters have great resources and hopefully they will protect your assets like it was their own," Dolores County Sheriff Don Wilson said during the meeting. "Hopefully this fire will stay where it's at and it will kick itself in the a--."

Pat Seekins, the San Juan Team 8 incident commander, said the fire will be "on the landscape for quite a while."

The Stoner Mesa wildfire is one of several that are burning across western Colorado, including the Lee fire near Meeker that's burned 116,859 acres and is 6% contained. It became the fifth-largest in state history over the past few days.

Crosho fire

Officials in Routt County confirmed a fire near South Routt on Monday that grew to 100 acres overnight. According to a news release by the County on Tuesday, 110 firefighters are on the scene from Yampa Oak Creek and Steamboat Springs fire districts as well as federal fire teams.

The fire reached private property on Tuesday but no structures are immediately threatened, the release stated. Firefighters are focused on protecting structures that may become threatened.

Following news releases by the county throughout Tuesday announced some pre-evacuations and several road closures along county roads.

Routt County is under a Stage 2 fire restriction, prohibiting open fires, welding, internal combustion engines and more.
In a bid to accelerate industrial investment and streamline processes, the Uttar Pradesh government has constituted three high-level committees to ensure land availability for industrial units, rationalize land rates, and simplify building bylaws.

This initiative, undertaken under the direction of Chief Secretary SP Goyal, aligns with the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to transform Uttar Pradesh into a $1 trillion economy.

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During a meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary on August 5 last, it was noted that approximately 4 lakh hectares of land have been notified under various Industrial Development Authorities, including Noida, Greater Noida, and Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA). Out of this, master plans have been prepared for 1.5 lakh hectares, while the rest are under process.

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Even if a building predates the authoritys notification and has an approved layout, a fresh NOC is still requiredoften unattainable, leading to legal and procedural issues.

To address these challenges a dedicated committee has been formed. This committee will study practices in other states and recommend strategies to develop and unlock notified areas for investment. The first committee chaired by Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Planning Department, will look into it.

The second committee, chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Infrastructure & Industrial Development Department, has been tasked with rationalizing industrial land rates in the state. It was observed that land prices in Uttar Pradesh are often higher than in neighboring states. For instance, industrial land rates in Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority may exceed those in nearby Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, which could deter investors.

The committee will focus on reducing the cost of doing business, reviewing infrastructure standards, and formulating strategies to make land more affordable.

Acknowledging the complexity of building bylaws under Industrial Development Authorities, the Government has constituted a third committee chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary, Revenue Department. The committee aims to simplify and rationalize these regulations, making them more user-friendly and conducive to higher investment per unit areaempowering entrepreneurs to establish industries on smaller land parcels.

The committee will study building bylaws of industrial authorities in other states and present recommendations accordingly.

All three committees have been directed to submit their recommendations within 15 days, underscoring the governments commitment to prompt resolution of these issues. This initiative is expected to further strengthen the states investment-friendly environment and reinforce Uttar Pradeshs position as a preferred investment destination in India.
The Election Commission on Wednesday rejected Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhis vote theft allegations, asserting that electoral rolls are prepared in accordance with law.

Responding to a social media post of Gandhi demanding the poll panel to make digital voter list public, the ECI said, Electoral rolls are prepared in accordance with Law. Any correction, deletion or inclusion in Electoral Roll can always be made as per procedure laid down in Law.

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The commission assured electors that no one can force to remove any names from final electoral rolls without following the procedure laid down in Law. It said while suo motu inquiry can be inititated in some cases by the ERO (electoral registration officer), he cannot issue thousands of notices merely on the basis of allegations.

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While ERO can always Suo moto inquire into a few cases based on Print, TV or Social Media, he cannot issue thousands of notices merely on the basis of allegations made by someone on Print, TV or Social Media which may lead to harassing thousands of Eligible Electors without any material evidence, it said.

These Claims are False and Misleading #ECIFactCheck Read in detail in image attached

Also reference link of Karnataka CEO: https://t.co/gERrrQucQs https://t.co/FE4jIxf4Ib pic.twitter.com/kyLb0fQPTw  Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) August 13, 2025

The commision reiterated that the evidence tendered by a person shall be given on oath under Rule 20 (3) (b) of Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. The Election Commission was, is, and will always stand with each eigible elector, it added.

Also Read: 70-year-old as new voter, 80 in one room, and the same voter in 3 states: Rahul shares criminal evidence of 2024 poll rigging

Earlier on August 7, Gandhi had alleged vote theft in Karnatakas Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha seat during 2024 general elections. He claimed over one lakh bogus voters in Mahadevapura assembly segment of the Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha constituency.

He also released what he described was criminal eveidence to back his claim. He cited several examples to prove his claim and demanded a thorough investigation.

In response, the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer asked him to give a signed oath and declaration and provide his evidence to the panel so that an inquiry can be conducted.
One of the enduring qualities that distinguishes Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership is his consistent willingness to invite suggestions and inputs from citizens, whether through his monthly Mann Ki Baat or on important national occasions. This openness to dialogue is rare among world leaders and is a democratic strength worth commending. As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, the Prime Minister has invited citizens to contribute their thoughts and ideas for his speech from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort on August 15. However, such public calls often generate a vast number of suggestions, making it difficult for the Prime Minister and his team to thoroughly examine each one.

Therefore, this author presents a focused two-part proposal aimed at empowering the nations youth: lowering the voting age to 16 and introducing mandatory military service. Lowering the voting age would give young people a greater voice in shaping the countrys future. Mandatory military service would build discipline, resilience, and a sense of national duty. Together, these reforms could equip young citizens to face the challenges of the digital age and contribute to building a stronger nation. India has a tradition of re  cognising the maturity of its youth.

The voting age was lowered from 21 to 18 through the Constitution (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, 1988, on the grounds that young people were literate and enlightened and deserved a say in governance. That same reasoning applies today to 16- and 17-year olds, who are far more informed and politically aware thanks to the Internet and the now-ubiquitous social media, which were not even dreamt of in the 1990s. Granting the right to vote to 16-year-olds offers several compelling benefits. Research shows that individuals who cast their first vote while still in a structured environment, such as school or within their family, are more likely to become lifelong voters.

This early participation lays the foundation for an active and responsible citizenry, fostering a habit of civic engagement that strengthens democracy. Lowering the voting age would also give young people voice on issues that affect them most: climate change, education, employment and technology. At present, they bear the consequences of policy decisions without having any say in them. Austria, Brazil and Argentina have successfully lowered the voting age to 16. The UK is now moving to lower its voting age to 16 for all national elections. This reform would position In  dia as a leader in democratic innovation and youth empowerment in Asia.

Indias 16-17 age group is estimated at about 50 million youngsters, within a total population of about 1.46 billion in 2025. Lowering the voting age would be a powerful statement of faith in our youth, prompting political parties to take their concerns more seriously and nurturing a generation of informed, engaged citizens. To further build a disciplined and resilient young citizenry, India could consider introducing mandatory military service for all youth under 25, ranging from six months to one year.

Such a programme would instil survival skills, deepen patriotism, and strengthen respect for our defence forces. India often sees Israel as a role model in resisting terrorism, an achievement that is not a free gift, but the result of a strong nation built on a strong, well-prepared community. One key factor behind that strength is this universal military service. Israeli men and women must perform mandatory military service of 32 and 24 months, respectively. This reform would help curb crimes against children and women by instilling discipline, empathy, and responsibility in youth. It would also empower and strengthen girls physically and mentally, enabling them to confront and overcome gender discrimination once and for all.

India, with its vast and diverse population, has a unique opportunity to use such a programme not only for defence preparedness but also for national integration.

This would be a powerful tool for social cohesion, bringing together youth from different regions and socio-economic backgrounds to serve a common cause. Such training would provide a structured environment that builds teamwork, responsibility, and national pride, while also imparting essential life skills like leadership, problem-solving and physical endurance, assets valuable in both career and personal life. Further, it would create a large pool of trained citizens who could be mobilised during national emergencies, natural disasters, or other crises, thereby strengthening the countrys resilience.

Countries with conscription for both men and women include Norway, which has a gender-neutral system, and Sweden, which reintroduced conscription in 2017 with a gender neutral, selective model. Some countries have conscription primarily for men. In Brazil, all men at age 18 are required to serve for 10 to 12 months. Finland mandates service for all male citizens for a period of 6 to 12 months. In Greece, mandatory service for men lasts from 9 to 12 months. Russia requires men aged 18 to 27 to serve for 12 months. Switzerland requires all able-bodied men to serve, beginning with an initial training period followed by recurring training. In Taiwan, mandatory military service for men lasts one year. In South Korea, all able bodied men must serve in the military, with service terms of 18 to 21 months.

Many K-pop stars, including members of the famous group BTS, have completed this service. The Constitution, in Article 23, includes a crucial exception, allowing the state to impose compulsory service for public purposes. This means that legally, the Indian government has the power to introduce conscription. The creation of a limited, one-year service programme could be a manageable and highly beneficial step. It would be an investment in our youth, building not just a stronger defence, but a stronger nation. Empowering our youth and instilling a sense of national duty are fundamental steps toward securing a prosperous future for all.

These proposals may resonate with the vision of a Viksit Bharat that is strong, democratic, and globally respected as Vish wa Guru. A nations true strength lies in the character of its youth. The Amrit Kaal, the transformative era leading up to the 100th Independence Day in 2047, presents the perfect opportunity to realise Swami Vivekanandas vision of a generation with muscles of iron and nerves of steel, within which dwells a mind made of the same material as that of the thunderbolt.

(The writer is a transparency and equality advocate and author. Views expressed are personal)

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Building on a strong and multifaceted relationship, in 2015, India and South Korea relations were elevated to a Special Strategic Partnership, reflecting the growing convergence of interests and cooperation. With 2025 marking ten years of this partnership, it is the right time to take stock, reflect on the challenges posed by shifting global supply chains, evolving economic alliances, and increasing geopolitical uncertainties as well as seek new avenues for collaboration between the two like-minded countries.

Bilateral trade increased by 64 per cent from 2015 to 2024, reaching US$ 27.4 billion. However, Indias exports to Korea have grown at a modest 4 per cent annually, while imports have risen faster at 6.4 per cent, widening the trade deficit to US$ 15.6 billion. Indias top exports to Korea include mineral fuels, aluminium, and organic chemicals, while imports are led by electrical machinery, steel, and plastics. Indias export potential to Korea is vastly underutilized. In 2024, it was estimated at US$ 98 billion  16 times higher than current export levels.

Key areas with high additional export potential include refined petroleum products, medicaments, aluminium, and aircraft parts. Sectors like pharmaceuticals, electrical machinery, and nuclear reactors also present strong opportunities where India has global competitiveness. FDI flows from Korea to India totalled US$ 5.1 billion between 2015 and 2025. On the other hand, Indian investment into Korea has been limited at just US$ 368 million over the same period. In recent years the technological revolution has offered huge opportunities to trading countries in the world but at the same time they are facing huge challenges due to rapid, unpredictable, and interconnected changes across geopolitical, economic, technological, environmental, and social domains.

India and South Korea can work together to strengthen the existing relationship, seize new opportunities, and navigate through these evolving challenges  setting a course for the coming years. The recent turmoil triggered by tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration has unsettled global trade, with some countries having finalized tariff arrangements while others remain in negotiations. South Korea appears to have agreed to a 15 per cent tariff, though the official White House fact sheet is still awaited, while India currently faces an interim 25 per cent tariff as talks continue.

What remains important is that both India and South Korea share a commitment to a rules-based international order. We are witnessing a weakening of multilateral institutions like the WTO, which have struggled to respond effectively to the geopolitical crises shaping todays global landscape. Should we reform the existing frameworks to make them more relevant and responsive to current challenges? Or is it time to design new systems that better reflect todays realities? It becomes all the more important to explore how we can reinvigorate the principles of rules-based trade. India and South Korea could work jointly in multiple forums like the G20, WTO, and UN to push for reforms, especially in global trade rules, digital governance, and climate finance.

The shifting geopolitical landscape has brought supply chain resilience to the forefront. In this context, South Korea is actively advancing its New Southern Policy (NSP), which aims to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and India. With Indias economy growing at 6.5 per cent, supported by a young workforce, rising human capital, digital and AI advancements, rapid urbanization, and increasing female labour force participation, a deeper partnership between South Korea and India holds strong potential. Korean investments can be encouraged in Indias PLI-backed sectors such as electric vehicles, electronics, and solar energy. Technological disruptions have increased global dependence on critical minerals like never before.

The rise in export restrictions by resourcerich countries has pushed others to pursue greater self-sufficiency. South Koreas K-Semiconductor Belt initiative exemplifies this effort  bringing together chip designers, manufacturing fabs, materials suppliers, R&D institutes, and universities to create a cohesive innovation ecosystem. In India, the Semiconductor Mission aims to build a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem, facilitating global partnerships and workforce development in R&D and manufacturing. This presents significant opportunities for India and South Korea to collaborate and leverage their complementary strengths. The two countries should also set up innovation corridors to connect start-ups, and incubators across both countries.

Korea can leverage Indias successful Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) model for digital inclusion and joint innovation in fintech and gov-tech. There are also traditional sectors where India and South Korea can leverage each others strengths. South Koreas shipbuilding industry has evolved significantly since the 1960s, becoming the worlds largest by the early 2000s. South Korea has maintained its leadership through continued investment in R&D, digital shipbuilding, and eco-friendly technologies. As India seeks to strengthen its own shipbuilding capabilities, a partnership with South Korea could play an important role in accelerating this growth.

India and South Korea must continue to expand and deepen their existing economic relationship and highlight the contemporary imperatives for a stronger strategic economic partnership, explore newer areas of collaboration and also deliberate on concrete policy measures and collaborative frameworks that can facilitate the Second wave of South Korean investments in India. These are some of the critical issues that deserve attention and thoughtful discussion and dialogues which are vital to strengthen and deepen mutual understanding.

(The writers are, respectively, Professor and Senior Fellow at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), New Delhi.)

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Amit Kapoor, a senior economist, has issued a warning amidst the rapid rise in availability and usage of artificial intelligence tools, saying people in the future will even forget how to read. Describing AI as a double-edged sword, Kapoor called for doing away with complete dependence on artificial intelligence like is being propagated today.

He noted in an exclusive conversation with Ananya Dasgupta on The Statesman Talk podcast that while AI brings with it huge opportunities, such tools could make one dependent on them.

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Amidst the AI juggernaut, Kapoor foresees a massive change in jobs that do not demand high-end, deep analytical skills, like coding services and call centre jobs which are already vanishing. However, there will always be demand for jobs that require specialized skills, he adds.

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The skillsets will change over a period of time, we will have to reskill ourselves  there are going to be higher order skills that will have to be imparted, he told The Statesman Talk.

If you talk about doctors, you will see the whole reshaping of the profession  diagnostics are going to go somewhere else because AI will be able to diagnose quickly. So, doctors will take help  but at the end of the day, the final diagnostic capability will be in human hand. So the skills for doctors will improve, they will become better surgeons. They will have more in-depth information to go deeper into research. It will accentuate our learning and create opportunities of a magnitude we have not thought of, Kapoor added.

According to him, AI will give rise to a new class of talent, of jobs and of opportunities. The only thing that will be key is how we learn.

Children, read more

For children, Kapoor had something important to say: read, read, and read. According to him, critical thinking will become a key differentiator in the AI age and this ability is developed by reading.

Critical thinking happens when you read. When you are reading you are building intellect, certain knowledge repository. So, what you call a gut feeling, its actually not. It is because its embedded in your mind.

The second important thing is going to be mathematical skills. Basic mathematical skills will become very important as we go along. Mathematics gives you analytical skills which are far more profound than anything else, Kapoor stated further.

He also noted the recent ban on social media in Australia, advocating that children below 13 should not be allowed to use phones.

On the podcast, Kapoor also talked about safety of private data vis a vis government and private players, addressing the skill gap in the country, the national credit framework and much more. Watch the complete episode here.

Amit Kapoor is the Honorary Chairman of the Institute for Competitiveness and a leading expert in strategy and economic competitiveness. Kapoor has significantly contributed to NITI Aayog and the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) through projects like the Competitiveness Roadmap for India@100 and Ease of Living Index. He is an affiliate faculty at Harvard Business School.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday warned India stating that Pakistan will teach it a lesson it will never forget, if India attempt to stop the flow of water into Pakistan in violation of the Indus Water Treaty.

Rattled by Indias suspension of Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan Prime Minister said that the move will be met with a decisive response.

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Speaking at an event in Islamabad, he declared, The enemy [India] will not be able to take even a single drop of water from Pakistan. He warned, You threatened to cut off our water supply. If you try, Pakistan will respond with a lesson you will never forget. Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed that water is vital for Pakistans survival and the country will not compromise its rights as guaranteed under international agreements, according to Geo News.

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After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April, which resulted in 26 deaths, India, exercising its sovereign rights under international law, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) until Pakistan firmly and permanently ends its support for cross-border terrorism.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 after nearly a decade of negotiations facilitated by the World Bank, is regarded as one of the most enduring and successful international water-sharing agreements. Former World Bank President Eugene Black played a key role in initiating the talks. Despite ongoing conflicts and tensions, the treaty has provided a stable framework for irrigation and hydropower development for more than fifty years.

Former U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower once called it a bright spot in a generally bleak global landscape. Under the treaty, the western riversthe Indus, Jhelum, and Chenabare allocated to Pakistan, while India receives rights over the eastern riversthe Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. However, each country is allowed limited use of the rivers allocated to the other. India is entitled to 20% of the Indus River Systems waters, with Pakistan receiving the remaining 80%.

The treaty came under renewed scrutiny after the 2019 Pulwama attack. Critics argue that the agreement has been too favorable to Pakistan, despite its continued support for terrorism against India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit United States next month to attend the UN General Assembly meeting, where he is likely to meet President Donald Trump.

The General Assembly begins on Sept 9, but the annual meeting of heads of state and government will be held from Sept 23-29.

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Speculations are rife that a key objective of the meeting will be to hold talks with Trump and resolve trade and tariff issues that have led to some eroding of ties between the two countries.

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The development comes after US had put an additional tariff of 25 % on Indian goods as a penalty for continuing to buy oil from Russia.

The new penalty pushed the total tariff on Indian exports to the U.S. to 50%one of the steepest rates applied to any American trading partner. Trade negotiations between New Delhi and Washington broke down after five rounds, with sticking points including access to Indias farm and dairy markets and its continued purchase of Russian oil.

On Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had said several major trade deals, including those with Switzerland and India, remained pending, adding that New Delhi had been a bit recalcitrant in its negotiations with Washington.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war in Ukraine and is instead making movements that indicate preparations for new military operations. The comments came ahead of meeting between the US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15.

Zelensky expressed support for Trumps determination but, at the same time, called for taking positions that will not allow Russia to deceive the world. He called for putting pressure on Moscow until it continues its military action in Ukraine.

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The Alaska meeting was announced by Trump last Friday  the day of his self-imposed deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face more US sanctions.

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Zelensky, who has over the past few days spoken to several world leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also expressed gratitude to the European Union leaders for their support of Ukraines independence and territorial integrity. The Ukrainian President has also spoken to Lithuania President Gitanas Nauseda, Canadian PM Mark Carney, Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Azarbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, Kazakhstans President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev and Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson.

I am grateful to the leaders of Europe for their clear support of our independence, territorial integrity, and precisely such an active approach to diplomacy that can help end this war with a dignified peace. Indeed, we all support President Trumps determination, and together we must shape positions that will not allow Russia to deceive the world once again. We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations. In such circumstances, it is important that the unity of the world is not threatened, Zelensky posted on X on Tuesday afternoon, India time.

Issues related to the security of Ukraine and Europe are discussed by all of us together. Any decision must add to our joint security capabilities. And if Russia refuses to stop the killings, it must be held accountable. As long as they continue the war and occupation, all of us together must maintain our pressure  the pressure of strength, the pressure of sanctions, the pressure of diplomacy. I thank everyone who is helping. Peace through strength, he added.

Zelensky also shared the statement of EU leaders, where they welcomed the efforts of Trump towards ending the conflict and achieving a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine. In the statement, the leaders of EU nations, except Hungary, stressed that the people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future.

In a statement, EU leaders stated, A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force.

The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities, they added.

The EU leaders stated that the Russias war against Ukraine has wider implications for European and national security. The statement ended with a text stating, Hungary does not associate itself with this Statement.
The Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA) has stated that 11 August represents a crucial milestone in the history of the Baloch nation, indicating what it claims was Britains acknowledgement of Balochistans independent status in 1947.

As reported by The Balochistan Post (TBP), SRA spokesperson Sodhu Sindhi mentioned that the British Empire governed the Indian subcontinent for a century, during which various oppressed nations engaged in a prolonged struggle for independence. He argued that the empire, which was weakened by World War II and anti-colonial movements, was compelled to withdraw.

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The statement further revealed that before departing, the British, under the supervision of the Punjabi army, established Pakistan as an agent state, which the SRA contends later became repressive for marginalised communities. According to the group, Britain recognised Balochistan as an independent entity on 11 August 1947, just days before the subcontinent was partitioned into India and Pakistan on 15 August. Following independence, the Baloch people formed a democratic parliament, as reported by TBP.

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The SRA claimed that Pakistan quickly initiated a military invasion of Balochistan, terminating its independence. The organisation asserts that this occupation has ravaged Baloch life, identity, culture, and civilisation, destabilising the region. It contended that an independent Balochistan would have ensured maritime connectivity, prosperity, and religious harmony; instead, the region now suffers due to Balochistans subjugation.

The spokesperson asserted that the Baloch struggle for independence persists and has now reached a critical juncture, adding that the sacrifices and ongoing struggle of the Baloch people would ultimately result in the restoration of independence through resistance against Pakistan and the Punjabi army, as cited in the TBP report.

The SRA claimed that Sindhis and Baloch share a common adversary and vowed that the Sindhi nation would support the Baloch on every front, according to the TBP report.

Balochistan has long been a focal point for ongoing human rights issues. The region has faced recurring cycles of violence tied to separatist movements, a strong military presence, forced disappearances, and economic neglect. These problems have garnered attention from human rights organisations, journalists, and international observers.

Human rights organisations have consistently accused Pakistani authorities of abducting civilians in Balochistan without due legal process, employing enforced disappearances as a means to suppress dissent and intimidate communities in troubled areas. While Pakistani authorities routinely reject these claims, civil society continues to denounce the security forces involvement in systematic abductions targeting students, political activists, and residents.
US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that US relations with India are good while defending Washingtons outreach to Pakistan, emphasising that having a president who communicates with everyone is beneficial.

Our relationship with both nations is as it has been, which is good, she said on Tuesday when a reporter asked her if US President Donald Trump reaching out to Pakistans military leader Asim Munir would be at the expense of the presidents relationship with (Prime Minister) Modi.

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That is the benefit of having a president who knows everyone, talks to everyone, and that is how we can bring differences together in this case, she said in defence of Trumps diplomacy towards Pakistan.

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So its clear that the diplomats here are committed to both nations, she added.

Bruce did not respond to another part of the reporters question, whether Trumps seeming to have developed a strong relationship with Munir will lead to more US assistance to Pakistan and an increase in arms sales.

But she referred to the US-Pakistan dialogue on counter-terrorism held earlier on Tuesday in Islamabad.

The US and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the meeting, she said.

They discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats, and I think that is good for the region and for the world, she said.

Trump hosted Munir, who wields power over Pakistans civilian government, at a White House lunch in June, asserting that he wanted to thank him for not going into the war and ending it.

Munir came again to the US last week to participate in an event in Tampa, Florida, to bid farewell to General Michael Kurilla, who ended his tour as the commander of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), and welcome his successor, Admiral Brad Cooper. CENTCOM covers Pakistan, in addition to Central and West Asia.

Trump has claimed that he mediated an end to the conflict in May which was escalated by Islamabad after India launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan-based terror groups in retaliation for the terrorist attack by The Resistance Front, an off-shoot of Pakistan-protected Lashkar-e-Tayiba, in Pahalgam in April.

Munir has echoed that and nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

India has denied that there was any mediation by Trump, and a ceasefire was initiated by Pakistans Director General of Military Operations, Major General Kashif Abdullah, who called his Indian counterpart, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai.

Bruce, who has been nominated to be the US deputy permanent representative to the UN, said that the US had ended a conflict, one that could have developed into something quite horrible.

She said that here was immediate concern and immediate movement with the Vice President, the President, and the Secretary of State, in addressing the nature of what was happening.

Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio worked to stop the attacks and to then bring the parties together so we can have something that was enduringand its a very proud moment and a very good example of what Secretary Rubio was committed to, she added.
Rebecca Landis said she's heard it all before. She came to hear if the city had anything new to offer, she said, instead of the same old songs.

Officials spent 90 minutes talking in broad strokes about funding strategies, such as raising local payroll taxes and forming partnerships with private organizations.

Landis was unimpressed. "What meat goes on the bone of a payroll tax?" she said.

The idea of a private-public partnership got no cheerier reception. "You're asking the public for input on a ghost," Landis said. "The new ghost is publicprivate partnership. That could be a good ghost or that could be scary."

Temperature in the room

Landis' mood generally reflected that of the 30 or so people who attended the open house.

Corvallis Finance Director James Inglis said the city only has general concepts to offer at this stage of the conversations about replacing City Hall and the Police Department HQ. All local officials are trying to do at this point, he said, is read the community's will about various funding options.

The ultimate decision about how to fund the project rests with the City Council and maybe the public, as some options require voter approval while others do not.

Meanwhile, City Manager Mark Shepard said police officers and other city employees desperately need new quarters.

The current City Hall building on Southwest Madison Avenue was constructed as a Methodist church 101 years ago and has served as the headquarters of local government since 1956.

The Police Department on Northwest Fifth Street was built in 1976. It's a space shared with the Benton County Sheriff's Office and includes an under-sized jail the county has unsuccessfully asked voters four times to replace with ever-increasing bond measure asks.

People work in cramped spaces without enough room to do their jobs, Shepard said.

Police Chief Jason Harvey said his staff have seen rodents gnawing on evidence. However, that's not his biggest concern. The department's HQ also houses the area's 911 dispatch center.

"This building has never been seismically retrofitted," Harvey said. "Any sort of seismic event, an earthquake, would take down this building clearly, and we would have no 911 or police."

'Out of space'

His officers and staff are also cramped, he said.

"We're out of space," he said. "We're taking offices and cutting them in two. People are walking straight in and sitting at desks at the end of the hallway. There is no space."

City officials have been fleshing out funding options with consultants from Boise, Idaho-based Clearwater Financial. Cameron Arial, founder of the company, spoke at the open house and said he will present his final proposal next month.

Possible funding options include:

Issuing general obligation bonds (basically raising local property taxes)

Putting a localoption levy on the ballot for voters to approve funding for five years

Relying on revenue bonds (counting on the project to repay the bonds with the money they generates)

Raising payroll taxes

Imposing selective local sales taxes

Pursuing public-private partnerships

Seeking state or federal grants

"Great if you can get them, but they're by no means going to get you past the finish line," Arial said of grant funding.

Pushing back

City officials were challenged on the accuracy of several points they made  especially that City Hall was originally intended to be temporary. Some people commented that the building was always intended to be a permanent home for local government.

Shepard also brought up the council chambers. "Right now, the City Council doesn't meet in City Hall," he said. "There's no space for them. They meet in our fire station in the upstairs in a large conference room."

That irked some people. Landis said the fire station was built in 1994, and the council chambers was constructed expressly for that purpose. "It's not an illegal space that you shoved someone into," she said.

Replacing City Hall and CPD's office space for a combined civic campus (estimated by Inglis to cost around $200 million) is part of a wider plan to develop Southwest Madison Avenue from the Oregon State University campus to the Willamette River. Shepard said much of that project involves private efforts beyond the city's purview.

At least $2 million for the Madison Avenue project is coming from the state of Oregon, he said. The rest of the funding is to be determined.

Right now, he said, he is focusing on the proposed city government complex.

"This is an opportunity for us not just to address staffing," Shepard said. "This isn't just about cubicles and office space. This is an opportunity to create space for the community, that community living room, that place where people could gather."

Advocacy?

Corvallis Public Information Officer Patrick Rollens said city staff members are legally allowed to advocate for new facilities until the question is put before voters as a ballot measure.

Shepard said it can be hard to communicate the city's space problems. "You don't work in the space, so you wouldn't understand the need," he told the crowd.

Inglis said he understands why people get riled up when the conversation turns to financing: "We know no one's sitting there wanting to give the city more money."

True enough, said Tamara Rowe, a retiree who lives in South Corvallis. "There's only so much we can pay before we have to move someplace else."

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Saint-Laurent, QC (H4T1V6)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 58F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 58F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph.
Saint-Laurent, QC (H4T1V6)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. High around 70F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 54F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.


remaining of

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Airlines everywhere face technical snags, flight delays etc., and India is not immune. It is just that since the Ahmedabad incident, there is increased focus on such incidents.

This is a running narrative being plugged by Indias airlines, even as incidents of emergency landing, flight diversions and other snags come out virtually on a daily basis. But is that all there is to it?

According to Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, there have been 183 untoward incidents by Indian airlines reported till July this year.

That is almost one emergency incident a day!

According to figures shared by the minister in Parliament, over 2,000 technical defects were reported by civil flights in the country in just the last four years or so.

Nearly half of the incidents reported this year are from the Tata-run Air India. Matters reached a head this Sunday, when an Air India flight carrying as many as five parliamentarians from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi had to be diverted to Chennai mid-flight after the crew suspected the radars to malfunction. However, the diversion turned into another scary situation after the first landing had to be aborted due to the presence of another aircraft on the tarmac.

Congress general secretary K.C.Venugopal, who was on board, billed the journey frighteningly close to tragedy. He has called for a DGCA investigation into the incident.

Worryingly, the incident is no outlier. This, despite air travel in India in general, and aboard Air India in particular, coming under the lens since the June 12 disaster of Air Indias Dreamliner from Ahmedabad to London, killing some 260 people  all but one of the 242 on board and some 29 on the ground.

Every other day, an incident report pops up of an Air India flight facing a malfunction of some kind, or some trouble while landing or taking off. Before the incident this week, amidst the many reported cases was a Kochi-Mumbai flight which landed in pouring rain and skidded off the runway last month, damaging one of its engines (and bringing the busy Mumbai airport to a standstill for hours). A couple of days before that, a Kozhikode-Doha flight by Air India Express, AIs low-cost subsidiary, diverted due to a, yes, you guessed it right, a technical snag.

The irony in the entire pattern of recurring incidents is that Air India had an abysmal reputation while being a government-run airline in the 2000s and 2010s, which was expected to dramatically improve after the Tatas, with their reputation for bringing a touch of excellence into everything they do, took over in early 2022.

The cheerleaders couldnt have been more wrong. Tata execs, many with no experience of how aviation works, came in, and if industry veterans are to be believed, with an imperious saviour attitude with the default approach that all AI staffers were inept and had to be wrung through the wringer (or preferably, take voluntary retirement and disappear). They also decided on internal uniformisation of perks as well as the shutdown of the award-winning and profitable Tata airline Vistara, in favour of Air India brand.

The result? At least two rounds of public strikes by employees, as well as increasing reports of customer dissatisfaction, technical snags and in-flight horror stories becoming the norm.

To give them due, the Tata management did show intent, pumping in thousands of crores on buying new airplanes and retrofitting existing ones (a process that is painfully delayed presently). putting in motion a five-year transformation process called vihaan.ai.

But nearly three years into the supposed transformation, the only visible change seems to be a spanking new corporate HQ in Gurugram, and a new livery design as well as uniforms designed by Manish Malhotra.

The honeymoon period is over. People are now expecting (more), said an aviation expert who formerly ran the nations biggest airport.

Meanwhile, technical issues and customer complaints continue streaming in. Adding to passenger woes have also been many flight cancellations and deviations, as planes have been pulled in for safety audits and maintenance. Air India announced on Sunday that it was discontinuing its Washington-Delhi direct flight due to a shortage of planes.
The United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in another stunning display of American echochamber jingoism, said that India had been a bit recalcitrant on trade negotiations with the US.

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, recalcitrant means obstinately defiant of authority or restraint or not responsive to treatment. The delusion of the US is at such heights that Bessent either thinks the US has some sort of authority over India or that India needs treatment, both of which are factually misguided.

Bessent went on Fox Business on Tuesday to speak about the latest on Trumps erratic tariff measures. He stated that the trade deals were in a good position to be wrapped up by October.

I think we will have agreed on substantial terms with all the substantial countries, he asserted.

From August 27, Trumps tariffs on India will come to 50 per cent, which the Union Ministry has already termed as unjustified and unreasonable, even pointing out the Western blocs double standards on buying Russian energy material while imposing sanctions on other countries.

India took a stand against Trump, with the External Affairs Ministry stating that India would take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.

All is not bleak, with the US delegation expected to be in India from August 25 to proceed with the sixth round of negotiations for the proposed bilateral trade agreement between the two nations.

Amid the erratic US behaviour, India has not been sitting idle. In fact, according to a Commerce Ministry official, Indias free trade agreement (FTA) with the UK would lift textile exports by 30-45 per cent by 2030.

India inked the comprehensive economic and trade agreement (CETA) with the UK on July 24 in London. Indias total exports to the world stand at $37 billion.
Decorative paint companies in India are currently battling challenges on two front. On the one hand, sales have been slow for some time and on the other, they face a new deep-pocketed competitor, who is aggressively expanding to grow its market share. Amid this, the sector has already seen some consolidation with JSW Paints snapping up Akzo Nobel India.

In this backdrop, the incumbents are going all out to protect their turf, whether it is through expanding its distribution and reach, launching new products and building up capacity.

Berger Paints, the second largest paints maker in the country, is focusing on expanding its operations in key southern and western states. Karnataka, Telangana, parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are states where it sees gaps that can be filled up.

Distribution expansion is one big area of opportunity for us. Our products are well known, but we need to improve distribution and need to make our products available, pointed Abhijit Roy, the MD and CEO of Berger Paints.

The company has also launched a new product, Kolorplus, in the premium emulsion category in the south and is now scaling that up elsewhere.

Bergers deeper push comes at a time Aditya Birla Group-owned Grasim, which entered the already competitive market with Birla Opus in 2024, is aggressively ramping up its presence. It has rapidly expanded its production as well as distribution. The company has commenced trial production of water-based paints and emulsions at its sixth plant in Kharagpur and is on track for a commercial launch by the end of the September quarter. This would give it an installed capacity of 1,332 million litres per annum, reaching 24 per cent of the organised paints industry.

Birla Opus has also expanded its distribution network to over 8,000 towns. Till June 2025, Birla Opus has incurred a capex of around Rs 9,555 crore. The company has also offered discounts and promotions to give its distribution and sales a boost, helping it gain a market share of over 5 per cent in little over a year, according to industry executives.

Roy admitted that competitive intensity had gone up, but remained confident of maintaining its market share. The company has a share of close to 21 per cent among all the listed paint players, he noted.

Berger is already well on the way towards expanding its capacity with two new plants one in Panagarh in Odisha and the other one in Odisha, while also expanding its facility in Hindupur, Andhra Pradesh. The company had already earmarked investment of around Rs 2,000 crore in this expansion.

According to Roy, the company is on track to achieve a revenue of Rs 20,000 crore by 2030 and remain a clear number two player in the industry. In the year ended March 2025, Berger had reported a revenue of Rs 11,545 crore.

Much of this growth will be come through organic expansion. Will Berger also explore acquisition opportunities to scale up its business?

According to Roy, major acquisition possibilities in the paints industry are remote, given the size and scale of the players now. However, the company may be open to explore if any smaller opportunities were to arise at right valuations.

Amid the heightened competitive intensity, JSW Paints recently signed a deal to acquire up to 74.76 per cent stake in Akzo Nobel India for up to Rs 8,986 crore.

Kansai Nerolac, JSW plus Akzo Nobel and Birla Opus vie for 3rd spot

Roy stated that three players  Kansai Nerolac, JSW plus Akzo Nobel and Birla Opus  would battle it out for the third spot, but it was unlikely the top two players  Asian Paints and Berger  would be unseated from their respective positions as most companies would continue to grow at a similar pace and therefore any possibility of a catch up was unlikely anytime soon.

Asian Paints remains the market leader in paints but has seen its market decline to around 52 per cent from close to 59 per cent, in the previous financial year, according to analysts, suggesting, it has been hit the most from the entry of Birla Opus.

The competition is intense, and it is driving us to look at doing more of innovation, seeing how we can look at propelling the brand further, increasing the saliency, looking at prepositions which are new, said Amit Syngle, the MD and CEO of Asian Paints after the companys first quarter earnings.

The company is also constantly scaling up its distribution reach, which is now touching around 1.7 lakh outlets, while also launching new products. According to Syngle, new products contributed to around 14 per cent to the overall revenue last quarter.

Amid the competitive intensity, companies have ramped up their sales and marketing expenses. However, the going has been tough for most paint companies, not just because of the competition, but also due to slow demand, especially in urban areas. Housing sales have also been slowing across major market, which affects allied areas like paints.

Asian Paints standalone net sales declined 1.2 per cent in the April-June quarter. Bergers standalone revenue was also up only 2 per cent.

Analysts are not too optimistic about the paint sector growth and expect another year of sluggish growth. Credit Ratings agency CRISIL expects paint sector volumes to rise 4-5 per cent in the current financial year ending March 2026, compared with 8-9 per cent volume growth in 2024-25. Overall revenue growth is also likely to be flat this year as downtrading, aggressive competition from the new entrant and JSWs acquisition of Akzo Nobel, will keep realisations under pressure.

Operating margins, which declined 300 basis points in the last financial year, are likely to further fall 100 bps to around 15.5 per cent, estimated CRISIL.

Competitive realignment will intensify as incumbents defend share, new entrants expand, and the recent acquisition by a significant manufacturer reshapes the market. This will keep pricing power weak, and marketing spends elevated, said Poonam Upadhyay, director at CRISIL.

Monsoon season typically hurts paints business as demand, especially for exterior painting takes a backseat. Roy pointed that heavy rains across the country have impacted the companys sales this quarter. However, with Diwali in October this year, Roy expects September will be a big month for the paints industry with a pre-Diwali demand pickup, but if the rains subside.

As such, the second half of this year is expected to be better than the first half, with mid-single-digit sales growth likely, according to Roy.
Coolie has amassed a humongous 550 crore worldwide from its pre-release business and is expected to shatter several box-officer records as it hits theatres on August 14.

Boasting of a star-studded ensemble cast, Coolie with a 350 crore budget has several numero uno actors from various film industries, including Rajinikanth, Aamir Khan, Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Upendra, Shruthi Haasan, Pooja Hegde and Soubin Shahir. Here is a look at the salaries of the major actors in the movie.

Rajinikanth

Rajinikanth has reportedly been paid 200 crore for the 350 crore budget movie Coolie. His original fee was 150 crore, but the producers added another 50 crore to his kitty with the movie bagging record pre-release business.

Aamir Khan

Bollywood's Mr Perfect Aamir Khan appears in a key guest role in Coolie that lasts around 15 minutes. His cameo as Dahaa the gangster has reportedly earned Aamir 20 crore. However, some reports claimed that the actor did not accept any remuneration.

Nagarjuna

Telugu superstar Nagarjuna has earned 10 crore for his role as Simon in Coolie.

Sathyaraj

Actor Sathyaraj took home 5 crore for his Coolie role as Rajasekhar.

Shruthi Haasan

Shruthi Haasan got a rumuneration of 4 crore for the role of Preethi in Coolie.

Upendra

Kannada actor Upendra was paid 4 crore for the role of Kaleesha in Coolie.

Pooja Hegde

Pooja Hegde, who made international headlines for her Monica song after getting a nod from Hollywood actress Monica Bellucci, was paid 3 crore for her stellar performance.

Soubin Shahir

Manjummel Boys actor Soubin Shahir appears as Dayal in Coolie. He was paid 1 crore.

Besides the cast, the crew also earned a whopping remuneration. Director Lokesh Kanagaraj was paid 50 crore helming Coolie while music composer Anirudh Ravichander got a sum of 15 crore.
As it is barely hours to go for the release of Rajinikanths Coolie, the anticipation has reached a fever pitch, especially with actor and Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Udhayanidhi Stalin, among others, hailing the film a "power-packed mass entertainer."

Featuring a stellar cast including Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Sathyaraj, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, and Soubin Shahir in key roles, the movie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is touted as an action thriller that will also boast of some fantastic performances.

The film will hit theatres on Thursday. There are several early shows planned across theatres in Tamil Nadu, with some media reports claiming that first-day first-show (FDFS) tickets are being sold as high as Rs 4,500.

"Had the opportunity to get an early glimpse of his much-awaited movie #Coolie, releasing tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer and am sure it will capture the hearts of audiences everywhere," wrote the TN deputy CM in a X post.

I am truly delighted to congratulate our Superstar @rajinikanth sir on completing 50 glorious years in the film industry.



Had the opportunity to get an early glimpse of his much-awaited movie #Coolie, releasing tomorrow. I thoroughly enjoyed this power-packed mass entertainer pic.twitter.com/qiZNOj5yKI  Udhay (@Udhaystalin) August 13, 2025

Several popular actors, including Mohanlal, Mammootty and Kamal Haasan, took to social media to wish Rajinikanth all the very best ahead of the release.

The movie is being released a day after Rajinikanth is celebrating 50 years in cinema.

"I celebrate our Super Star with affection and admiration, and wish #Coolie resounding global success befitting this golden jubilee," Kamal Haasan wrote.

Marking half a century of cinematic brilliance, my dear friend @rajinikanth celebrates 50 glorious years in cinema today. I celebrate our Super Star with affection and admiration, and wish #Coolie resounding global success befitting this golden jubilee.



Helmed by the powerhouse pic.twitter.com/FrU5ytphoL  Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) August 13, 2025

"#Coolie will be yet another diamond in your crown," wrote another Kollywood actor, Sivakarthikeyan.

Thalaivaaa,



I grew up watching you, mimicked you, and walked in your footsteps -

to be in the same field as you is my greatest fortune.



Thank you for inspiring me, and congratulations on your 50 years of magnanimous legacy #Coolie will be yet another diamond in your crown pic.twitter.com/F7Ariln5cy  Sivakarthikeyan (@Siva_Kartikeyan) August 13, 2025

The director called the movie "a special film" and said the reason this film shaped up the way it did with everyone pouring their hearts and love into it is because of Rajinikanth.

#Coolie will always be a special film in my journey, and the reason this film shaped up the way it did with everyone pouring their hearts and love into it is because of you, #Thalaivar @rajinikanth sir 



Will forever be grateful for this opportunity, and the conversations pic.twitter.com/XNLbwGLLvf  Lokesh Kanagaraj (@Dir_Lokesh) August 13, 2025

Congratulating the superstar for completing 50 years in cinema, Mohanlal wrote: "Heres to #Coolie and many more iconic moments ahead.

Fifty years of unmatched charisma, dedication, and magic on screen! Congratulations to the one and only @rajinikanth sir on this monumental milestone. Heres to #Coolie and many more iconic moments ahead. pic.twitter.com/Xhk3P7aEFs  Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) August 13, 2025

"It was truly an honour to share the screen with you. Wishing you the very best for #Coolie," wrote Mammootty.
Mollywood actor Devan has no doubt in his mind that he will be the next person after Mohanlal to helm the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). The 73-year-old goes head-to-head with actress Shwetha Menon, another favourite contender.

ALSO READ | AMMA elections 2025: Final list of nominees out as Shwetha Menon and Devan face off for the top post

In a recent interview with Manorama Online, the actor mentioned how it was difficult to imagine the organisation without Mohanlal leading it. The veteran actor had held the post since 2018. I firmly believe that I will be elected as the AMMA president. There is a reason why I chose to contest this election. At the last general meeting of AMMA, Mohanlal declared that he is stepping down as president and will never hold an office-bearer position in the future. That saddened us all. We couldnt imagine AMMA without Mohanlal as president. Despite our persuasion, he declined to continue in the post. Instead, he urged us to hold elections to find a fitting successor.

Despite this, Devan still held the belief that Mohanlal would file his nomination for the post, but when he did not, the actor felt compelled to submit his name as he was anxious about who would be the next president. He said, I had no idea who had filed nominations. I felt that AMMA was heading towards a crisis.

Devan disclosed that he had deliberated with friends and family before making the decision. He recalled them saying that no allegations have been made against him and that the actor should file the nomination. Nominations closed at 4 p.m. on that day. I rushed from the shooting set and filed my nomination just before the deadline. Thats how I stepped forward to contest for president, despite not being involved in AMMA affairs all these years.

ALSO READ | Devan backs opponent Shwetha Menon over FIR ahead of AMMA elections: It is a stupid case

Shwetha Menon, Devans opponent, was slammed with a First Information Report (FIR) alleging that the actress was profiting from performing in obscene scenes in films. Devan questioned why only Menon was singled out, and the complaint did not name other actors or producers. If it were a big crime, the complaint should not have been filed only against Shwetha Menon. A case should have been registered against the other actors and crew members of the film, the actor stated.
An Ernakulam sub-court has reportedly dismissed a plea filed by producer Sandra Thomas, challenging the rejection of her nomination for any office-bearer posts at the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA). The 39-year-old had entered the race for president, treasurer, and executive committee member.

ALSO READ | Who is Sandra Thomas, the actor-producer accusing Mollywood industry of budgeting for drugs?

Thomas nominations for the KFPA were rejected on a technicality, which states that a producer must have bankrolled at least three films. Under her current production banner, Sandra Thomas Productions, she has produced only two filmsKallan D'Souza and Nalla Nilavulla Rathri.

She previously co-helmed Friday Film House with Vijay Babu, which produced several well-known films like Philips and the Monkey Pen and Zachariayude Garbhinikal. The pair had a falling out, which resulted in Babu taking full control of the firm. Reportedly, the KFPA said that the transfer of rights to Babu makes her ineligible to have three or more film credits under her name.

ALSO READ | WCC rallies behind the outspoken women in Malayalam cinema; condemns Adoor Gopalakrishnans remarks

Babu took to Facebook to explain why Thomas cannot contest the elections. She represented Friday Film House for a while and resigned legally in 2016 (all notarised by the court) after taking her share or more. She has had nothing to do with Friday Film House for the past 10 years. Anyway, let the court decide. Might be new info for all of us too if its decided otherwise.

After the courts plea dismissal, Thomas voiced her frustration and penned on Facebook that she will be taking further legal action. The verdict is disappointing. Future actions will be taken after consulting with legal experts, she posted.
KEELING  June Dixon saw a brochure at her church in Callands about a program designed to help seniors with small projects around the house.

She brought the pamphlet home and looked it over.

Then she prayed about it.

She decided to get an application from the Danville-Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity for the new initiative known as Aging in Place, which launched earlier this year.

Its designed to aid residents 65 and older with modest upgrades to homes so they can have a safer space.

Dixon, who lives on Birch Creek Road in Keeling with her husband, got a call from Krystal Davis, the director of the local Habitat program.

Davis, along with Dave Motley, Habitats construction coordinator, paid a visit to access the situation.

Dixons ask was simple. She said there was a little problem with her front porch.

Thats all I told them, I just need a couple of steps, Dixon told the Register & Bee outside her home on an extremely hot July morning.

The Habitat team went around to the back of her house and saw a porch there that was in poor shape, even though Dixon didnt mention it in her request.

The steps and railing were failing.

Yes, that was really a danger, Dixon told the newspaper. My dog had fell down it.

Motley told her that both the front and back porches needed to be taken down and rebuilt.

And he was going to do just that.

I was not expecting that, Dixon said. That was just a surprise to me, I thought they would just fix the steps.

Its not unusual for the Habitat duo to find more issues when looking around a property.

But Motley wasnt finished.

Around back, there was a gate along a fenced-in area for Dixons dog. That gate had become very heavy to lift open, creating another safety issue for the couple.

I know it was all in the hands of the Lord that all of this worked out like it did, Dixon said, looking at her new back porch and pointing to the replaced gate. I was not expecting as much as they were doing.

How the program works

Grant funding  including $35,000 from Caesars Virginia  helped to get the Aging in Place program rolling so seniors can stay in their homes without safety struggles.

And they are not in a financial position to be able to spend on the renovations that they need, Davis said of the free program to residents.

Applications go through the Southern Area Agency on Aging. In addition to the Dixons home, four other projects have been completed this year.

Sometimes its installing a ramp so someone can more easily get in and out of a home.

One of the big things we are seeing with the needs of the people we serve is that they are having issues where they are falling in and out of the bathtub, Davis explained.

Generally, the repairs can happen in a day. With a bathtub, its normally replaced with a shower so the resident doesnt have to maneuver over a hurdle.

There are some things that Habitat  a nonprofit with a primary mission to build homes for low-income families  cant tackle. Davis said theyve received requests for a new roof.

We cant take on projects of that magnitude, she said. That also wouldnt fit with the spirit of the program.

Its about making it safe for them, she said.

Occasionally, other issues pop up, like black mold. Since the Habitat crew isnt certified to remove that, Davis tells the homeowner that once someone deals with it, they can return to move forward with a project.

The repairs proceed in the order in which applications were submitted, unless an emergency situation arises.

Had Dixon not had the Aging in Place program, replacing the back deck alone could have cost upward of $10,000.

Habitat was able to get the material for about $3,000.

Me and my son-in-law were going to work together to patch the steps, and that was all, Dixon told the newspaper when asked what she would have done without Habitats help. However, when a corner of the deck started to sag, it compounded the issue.

Why theres a need

In this case, Motley did the work solo in about a day for the back porch. The smaller one around front took a little longer since a building inspector was delayed coming out for that area.

Unlike the house builds, David said its an issue getting members of the community involved with the Aging in Place initiative.

I would say one of the biggest issues that we have right now is the need for volunteers to help with this program, Davis told the newspaper during an interview in her office.

These smaller projects are normally on a Saturday. Residents, businesses or civic groups donate time for the homes Habitat builds, but so far weve not had a lot of luck for finding volunteers for this program.

The original goal was to finish one Aging in Place project a month, but Davis said there are so many applications backed up that they may have to ramp up those efforts.

So I think we are going to have to start trying to do more than one a month because the need is so great, Davis said.

What its like with a new deck

Dixon can now walk straight out of her deck into her backyard where she hangs clothes. Before, the stairs went off to the side, creating a cramped space to navigate next to a fence.

Oh, it was wonderful, Dixon said of the first time she stepped on her back deck. I thought oh Lord, it is so nice to be able to come out on my back porch finally, because I really missed this.

She had stopped using it when it became too unsteady.

Her dog also loves coming out in the mornings and lying down in the shade on the deck.

I have to give all the honor and glory to God because Hes the one that has provided this to happen, Dixon said.

Davis is used to the overflowing gratitude from residents who essentially have their lives changed by what amounts to a few hours of work.

Details on how to apply for the program are online at danvillehabitat.org/services/aging-in-place. However, Davis recognizes that not everyone is tech-savvy.

If they are able, they can always come in here, she said of the Habitat ReStore at 2805 Riverside Drive in Danville.

Otherwise, residents may call Davis at 434-793-3630, and shell be happy to drop an application in the mail for someone.

Davis would like the program to be able to complete two projects a month, but thatll require volunteers and more funding to sustain it.

I know that the program is going to help a lot of people, and Im really grateful, Dixon said.

They are some wonderful people, she continued, speaking of Davis and Motley. I couldnt have asked for any better people to work with.
Upping the ante against the Election Commission over alleged irregularities in the electoral roll, the Congress party is reportedly planning to "expose" discrepancies in 48 Lok Sabha seats, where the party lost to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party by a thin margin.

According to reports, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge chaired a meeting of senior party leaders over alleged 'vote chori' in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday. In the meeting, Lok Sabha Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi allegedly charged that the BJP followed the same modus operandi as Bengaluru Central, in 48 Lok Sabha constituencies where the party lost to the ruling party by a thin margin.

The Congress leader has reportedly decided to release the findings in seven-eight phases. The development comes amidst raging row between Gandhi and the Election Commission over alleged irregularities in the electoral roll.

The Congress leader has accused the Election Commission of coercing with the BJP and fudging the electoral roll. During a recent press conference to 'expose' the irregularities, Gandhi, citing Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha seat as an example, charged that there were names of several voters with invalid addresses and levelled charges of double voting.

The Commission called the charges false and misleading, and challenged the Congress leader to sign an oath, so that the poll body could initiate legal action. The Commission also denied charges that political parties were not being provided with digital copies of the electoral roll. The Commission said Gandhi should apologise for misleading the nation.
Kerala is on the boil over the 'Vote Theft' row after CPI(M) and BJP workers clashed in Thrissur district on Tuesday. Left workers had poured black oil on a board featuring Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi after media reports found that numerous bogus names had been added to the voters' list in favour of the BJP MP. Suresh Gopi, the saffron party's only Lok Sabha member ever from the southern state, is under pressure after both the Left and Congress intensified protests against him. After the CPI(M) workers targeted the MP's office, BJP workers organised a counter-march towards the district committee office of the CPI(M), and the police had to intervene to prevent an escalation.

At a time when the BJP remains on the defensive over the 'Vote Theft' allegations, former Union Minister Anurag Thakur was given the responsibility of taking the offensive to the Opposition. The Hamirpur MP claimed on Wednesday that a large number of fake voters exist across Lok Sabha seats held by prominent Opposition leaders. Among the seats mentioned by Thakur was Kerala's Wayanada seat that elected Rahul Gandhi twice before being represented by the incumbent, his sister, Priyanka Gandhi.

Also mentioned were the seats of Diamond Harbour, Kannauj, and Mainpuri, currently held by the Trinamool's Abhishek Banerjee, the Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav, and his wife Dimple Yadav, respectively. The BJP leader also claimed that his party's investigation had found a similar fake voter trend in Tamil Nadu's Kolathur assembly seat, from which Chief Minister M. K. Stalin was elected. He further claimed that 47 voters had been registered in a single house in Rae Bareli, but Rahul and Sonia Gandhi never saw these names.

"Will all these Opposition leaders resign over what they call vote theft? They want to stop SIR because it will clean up such voter rolls," Thakur asked.

The BJP had reportedly found that Wayanad has 93,499 doubtful voters. The list includes 20,438 duplicates, 17,450 voters with fake addresses, 4,246 mixed-household entries, and 51,365 added through mass registration. Meanwhile, in Abhishek Banerjee's Diamond Harbour, there were around 2.6 lakh doubtful voters, including 1.55 lakh with fake addresses. Kannauj and Mainpuri had 2,91,798 and 2,55,914 such voters, Thakur alleged, adding that M. K. Stalin's Assembly seat had around 20,000 such entries.

Addressing the media at the BJP headquarters, Thakur said that Congress wants to belittle the votes of the people of India as they have repeatedly rejected them. "They lose and blame the Election Commission and the BJP. They spread confusion about the Constitution during the elections and now they are lying again. They have no issue left for the elections." "In the Maharashtra elections, Congress had said that voter names were being increased. The Congress party is insulting the voters. Rahul Gandhi's figures and he himself are liars," he added.
The CID (Security) wing of Rajasthan Police arrested a man from Jaisalmer on Tuesday for allegedly spying for Pakistans intelligence agency, ISI, and leaking confidential and strategic information.

The accused, identified as Mahendra Prasad (32), was a contractual manager of a guest house of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at the Chandan Field Firing Range.

A resident of Palyun, Almora in Uttarakhand, Prasad was arrested on charges of espionage under the Official Secrets Act 1923. He will be produced before a court on Wednesday.

Inspector General of Police CID (Security) Dr. Vishnukant said, keeping in mind the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, the police had intensified surveillance to prevent any possible anti-national and subversive activities by foreign agents.

Rajasthan | DRDO guest house manager, Mahendra Prasad has been arrested in Jaisalmer on charges of spying for Pakistani intelligence agency ISI and sending confidential and strategic information of the country across the border to Pakistan via social media. A case has been pic.twitter.com/0yQlXbNjS5  ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2025

During this monitoring, it was found that Prasad was in contact with the Pakistani intelligence agency through social media and was providing confidential information related to the movement of DRDO scientists and Indian Army officers, who come to the Firing Range for missile and other weapons testing, to Pakistani handlers.

Prasads mobile phone was subjected to technical analysis, and it was confirmed that the accused had also shared sensitive information related to DRDO operations and Indian Army activities with his Pakistani handlers.

Police are now trying to assess the extent of the security breach and find out if any others are also involved in the network.
What began as the Election Commission of Indias announcement to conduct a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls ahead of the Bihar polls escalated to another level when Rahul Gandhi produced evidence to accuse the election body and the ruling BJP of vote theft by manipulating the voters list.

While defending the Election Commission, the BJP also began digging into records in seats won by Opposition leaders, levelling similar charges against them. The party was not merely defending the Election Commission but mounting a sweeping counter-offensive that paints Congress and its allies as the culprits in what is now called a vote chori racket.

With both sides having levelled allegations of discrepancies in the voters list, the sanctity of electoral rolls and voter ID cards has come under question, which has larger ramifications in the minds of the voters that may impact their trust on the polling day as 'vote chori' may become the new buzzword.

Although Opposition parties have jointly opposed the SIR exercise in Bihar, Rahul Gandhi has taken the lead inside and outside Parliament on the issue. Coupled with his latest claims of vote theft, particularly in Karnataka and Maharashtra, he has emerged as the face of the fight against the Election Commission.

The BJPs counter-strategy has grown increasingly aggressive as the controversy has raged. Initially fielding its spokespersons, the party soon entrusted senior ministers involved in election management  Dharmendra Pradhan and Bhupender Yadav  to target Gandhis claims over the SIR.

The ministers accused Gandhi of wilfully misrepresenting EC data  citing a 40-lakh increase in Maharashtras voter rolls between the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, rather than the one crore he claimed  and pointed out that many of the seats with the largest increases were won by Congress or its INDIA bloc partners.

Central to the BJPs pushback was its insistence that the SIR was simply a process of updating and refining voter lists  a standard, nationwide exercise undertaken by the Election Commission. Since Independence, they argue, the EC has conducted such revisions to keep the rolls accurate, and suggesting otherwise amounts to misleading the public about the functioning of a key constitutional body. By reinforcing the normalcy of the SIR, the BJP aims to strip the Congress charge of any extraordinary weight.

Targeting Rahul Gandhis credibility

The partys counter-offensive makes Rahul Gandhi personally central to the narrative. BJP leaders describe him as directionless, anti-Constitutional, and incapable of accepting electoral defeat. They cite a pattern  from questioning EVMs to alleging fraud in Maharashtras voter rolls  as evidence that he seeks to discredit the system whenever Congress loses.

Pradhan labelled Gandhi the ringleader of anti-Constitutional acts whose politics is built on disorder. The BJP accused the Leader of the Opposition of questioning constitutional institutions in the country, from the Supreme Court and the Election Commission to even the Army during military action against a neighbouring country.

Gandhi, for his part, had displayed aggression by warning EC officials about consequences if Congress came to power.

Yadav countered Gandhi on the statistics, stating that in 2024 the number of voters in the Maharashtra Assembly rolls was 9,71,41,289, while in the Lok Sabha it was 9,30,61,760  a difference of around 40 lakh. However, Rahul Gandhi exaggerated this by 60 per cent, falsely claiming an increase of one crore voters.

The BJPs attack has also targeted the Gandhi family. The partys IT cell chief unearthed data from the 1980s, alleging that former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi was made a voter before she became an Indian citizen.

Vote-Bank Politics

Beyond debunking specific claims, the BJP is framing the Congress stance as part of a larger political strategy in which illegal Bangladeshi's are allegedly being added to the voter list to secure a loyal vote bank. The party also accuses the Opposition of pursuing appeasement politics.

The Congress and its allied parties are engaged solely in vote-bank politics. They want to make infiltrators into voters to serve their political interests. When the Election Commission presents them with the correct facts, they talk about dismantling the very same Election Commission, Pradhan charged.

The party is likely to aggressively push this argument during the polls to counter the Opposition. Any polarising debate has the potential to override livelihood issues that may surface during the campaign. In the past, the BJP has benefited electorally whenever polarisation has taken place.

Higher Gear

The BJP shifted into a higher gear as it sought to flip the blame for voter list manipulation back onto Opposition leaders.

Former Union minister Anurag Thakur alleged irregularities in voter registration in high-profile constituencies represented by Opposition heavyweights. These included Rae Bareli  once held by Sonia Gandhi and now by Rahul Gandhi; Wayanad  Rahul Gandhis other seat in Kerala; Diamond Harbour  TMCs Abhishek Banerjee; Kannauj  SP chief Akhilesh Yadavs seat; Mainpuri  held by Dimple Yadav; and Kolathur  Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalins constituency.

Thakur demanded that these MPs and leaders resign, alleging they won through vote chori  fake voter registrations, manipulated rolls, and protection of illegal infiltrators.

The BJP is now attempting to seize that same language and turn it against Congress. By producing constituency-level accusations against Opposition leaders, the party hopes to make the vote chori label stick to its opponents instead.
Amid a raging political controversy over directives issued by some civic bodies in Maharashtra to ban the sale of meat on Independence Day, the Bharatiya Janata Party has sought to give a history lesson to the Opposition.

In a social media post, BJP media cell chief Navnath Ban claimed that the decision to ban meat sale on certain days, including Independence Day, was taken on May 12, 1988, by the then Congress government.

According to this rule, on days of national and religious importance such as Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Ram Navami, and Mahavir Jayanti, municipal corporations have the authority to keep slaughterhouses closed, Ban said, adding that the decision is taken through a resolution passed directly by corporators in the general body meeting.

In other words, this decision is made unanimously by local representatives, he added.

             .          .        .      ,    .   pic.twitter.com/H8uqZiGmQT  Navnath Kamal Uttamrao Ban (@NavnathBanBJP) August 12, 2025

Ban further noted that the decision taken in 1988 was kept unchanged even during the tenure of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, of which the Congress, NCP (SP) and the Shiv Sena (UBT) were part of.

At that time, however, these leaders had their lips sealed. But today, while setting up a political spectacle, they are speaking as if 'atrocities' are being committed, he said, referring to the criticism of several opposition leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, against the ban on meat sale.

The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation, the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Thane district, and the Malegaon Municipal Corporation have announced the closure of slaughterhouses, outlets and shops selling meat within city limits on August 15.

Aaditya Thackeray has lashed out at the move, calling it an infringement on personal freedom. "What we eat on Independence Day is our right, our freedom. They cannot tell us whether to eat, he had said.

Interestingly, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, an ally of the BJP, has also expressed strong disapproval of the directives of the municipal corporations.

"It is wrong to impose such a ban. In major cities, people of different castes and religions reside. If it is an emotional issue, then people accept it (ban) for a day. But if you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," Pawar told reporters.

Meanwhile, in Telangana, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation has also given direction to slaughterhouses and meat shops to remain closed on August 15, eliciting sharp reaction from AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, who called it callous and unconstitutional.

Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day? 99% of Telanganas people eat meat. These meat bans violate peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition & religion, the Hyderabad MP wrote on X.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to visit Moscow to hold talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov from August 18 to 21 while Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit New Delhi to meet National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. These meetings come amid US imposition of 50 per cent tariffs on India over purchase of Russian oil.

This comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming trip to China's Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, which will also be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin is also set to travel to India for an annual summit with PM Modi later this year.

FM Sergey #Lavrov's schedule:



 On August 21, FM Sergey #Lavrov will hold talks with FM of India @DrSJaishankar in Moscow.



The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks.#RussiaIndia pic.twitter.com/ck4qG1Z14P  MFA Russia  (@mfa_russia) August 13, 2025

Jaishankar's trip to Moscow comes days after Doval met Putin at the Kremlin in August 7. In July, Jaishankar had met Jingping to discuss bilateral ties, border issues and trade relations.

How India's high-level Russia, China meetings are aimed at Trump tariffs?

Ever since India and US inked a nuclear agreement during the era of Manmohan Singh and George W. Bush, New Delhi has been growing closer to Washington. The US even made India a key player in its Indo-Pacific strategy to counter China while India went on to reduce its dependence on Russian defence imports. But with Donald Trump imposing tariffs, now India could be mulling to bolster its age-old ties with Russia while opting for a tactical embrace with China.

India and China have been looking to improve their ties for a while now, with back-to-back meetings over border dispute and trade concerns. But the tariffs have given New Delhi enough push to speed up the need to achieve a resolution on contentious issues. It should be noted that Modi's trip to China will be the first times in seven years.

By imposing tariffs, Trump might have thought that India would give in to his demands like many other nations that have already struck trade deals with the US. However, PM Modi has shown no signs of giving in to the US demands or giving up Russian oil.
Kerala saw widespread rain on Wednesday with yellow alert in Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. IMD has predicted that there could be widespread rainfall and isolated heavy rainfall in affected districts.

The Met department said the rains will continue for two or three days with winds with 50 kmph speed in some regions. Kollam, Pathnamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts saw isolated moderate rainfall on Wednesday evening.

What is Kerala weather forecast for August 14?

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued yellow alert for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod districts for Thursday. Isolated heavy rainfall is predicted in these districts for August 14. Other districts will see isolated light showers during the day.

 A slight increase in multi-day moderate to isolated heavy rain spellsis expected over most parts of Malabar & some areas of Central #Kerala in the next 45 days, aided by a low over the BOB



Keralas August rainfall deficiency currently stands at a steep 56.6%#KeralaRains pic.twitter.com/hvaG1mzsUn  Jeev Dain Varughese (@jeev_dain) August 13, 2025

This comes after a low pressure system was formed above western Bay of Bengal. It could intensify in 24 hours and move towards the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coast in the next 48 hours.

Thunderstorm warning

IMD has also warned of thunderstorms, advising people to stay indoors and disconnect power supply to household appliances during rains. IMD said the use of telephone should be avoided during thunderstorm but it is safe to use mobile phones.

People are advised to avoid open areas and avoid touching the walls or floors. IMD has also advised people to avoid bathing or collecting water from taps during thunderstorms as electricity caused by lightning could travel through pipes.

Motorists are advised to stay inside vehicles during thunderstorm but IMD has cautioned about parking under trees. It also warned against travelling on bicycles and two wheelers.
The orders issued by several civic bodies in various states banning the sale of meat on Independence Day have sparked a political storm with the Opposition parties alleging that the fundamental freedom of people is being violated.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi took potshots at the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation on Wednesday for its direction to slaughterhouses and meat shops to remain closed on August 15 and 16Independence Day and Janmashtami.

The Hyderabad MP termed the orders callous and unconstitutional.

Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day? 99% of Telanganas people eat meat. These meat bans violate peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition & religion, Owaisi wrote on X.

Many municipal corporations across India seemed to have ordered that slaughterhouses and meat shops should be closed on 15th August. Unfortunately, @GHMCOnline has also made a similar order. This is callous and unconstitutional.



Whats the connection between eating meat and  Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) August 13, 2025

Several municipal bodies in Maharashtra have issued similar directives, drawing sharp criticism even from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

"It is wrong to impose such a ban. In major cities, people of different castes and religions reside. If it is an emotional issue, then people accept it (ban) for a day. But if you clamp such orders on Maharashtra Day, Independence Day and Republic Day, then it is difficult," Pawar told reporters.

The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation has announced the closure of slaughterhouses, outlets and shops selling meat within city limits on two daysAugust 15 and 20in view of festivals.

The Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Thane district near Mumbai has also directed the closure of meat shops on August 15. The Malegaon Municipal Corporation, too, issued a similar order.

Lashing out at these directives, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray said the municipal corporations would rather focus on issues such as potholes on roads.

"What we eat on Independence Day is our right, our freedom. They cannot tell us whether to eat. In our house, even during Navratri, our prasad has prawns and fish because this is our tradition. This is our Hindutva. Why are you entering our homes?, he asked.

#WATCH | Mumbai: On Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation reportedly ordered the closure of all slaughterhouses and meat shops on August 15, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray says, "In our house, even on Navratri, our prasad has prawns, fish, because this is our tradition, pic.twitter.com/ivxVhjHw2i  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

Earlier, NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad had said he would host a mutton party on August 15 to highlight the "freedom" of subjective food preferences.

Bhiwandi MP and NCP (SP) leader Suresh Mhatre too strongly opposed the restriction, calling it an infringement of people's traditional food habits.

"What one should eat and what one shouldn't is a question of the people. The local fishermen community eats vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Food habits are shaped by customs prevalent in different parts of the state. The ban on the sale of meat is incomprehensible," Mhatre told reporters.
Despite the ongoing trade war between India and the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit New York next month to address the annual high-level session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Modis name has been figured in the provisional list of speakers issued by the UN, reported PTI news agency.

The 80th session begins on September 9, while the General Debate session is from September 23 to September 29. Brazil is the traditional first speaker of the session, followed by the US. This will be US President Donald Trumps first address at the UNGA during his second term.

As per the UN notification, Modi will address the session on the morning of September 26. Leaders of Israel, China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are also scheduled to address the session on the same day.

It is not immediately clear whether Modi will hold any bilateral meetings in the US. An Indian Express report, however, claimed that a key objective of the prime ministers visit will be to meet Trump, iron out the issues on trade and arrive at a common ground on tariffs.

While PM Modi is slated to travel to UNGA, but his bi-lateral with President Trump is not confirmed as yet. Much will depend on trade negotiations between now & then. Whether that extra 25% for Russian oil will go in effect or not on 27th August 2025. So lets wait & watch how  Navroop Singh (@TheNavroopSingh) August 13, 2025

The relation between India and the US has witnessed a dramatic nosedive over the fortnight, with Trump imposing a 25 per cent punitive tariff on Indian imports for continuing to use Russian oil. The fresh move has taken the total levy on Indian goods to the US to 50 per cent.

In an executive order signed earlier this month, Trump cited matters of national security and foreign policy concerns, as well as other relevant trade laws, for the increase, claiming that India's imports of Russian oil, directly or indirectly, pose an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to the United States.

India has termed the US move unfair, unjustified and unreasonable and said New Delhi will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests.

Modi had visited the US in February for a bilateral meeting with Trump. After their meeting, both leaders announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by the fall of 2025.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday quipped that "240 people can't be living in one house" while hearing petitions challenging intensive electoral roll revision in Bihar. The apex court will continue hearing the matter on Thursday, when the Election Commission will argue its case.

For the second day, a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi heard petitions challenging the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in poll-bound Bihar. The petitioners argued that the entire exercise was flawed and it was designed for "mass exclusion" from the electoral roll. The petitioners sought an interim stay on the exercise.

Appearing for Association for Democratic Reforms, senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan argued the entire exercise was malafide in nature and most of the electors do not possess the certificates demanded by the Election Commission to prove citizenship. "I can guarantee there are not more than 25 per cent of people whose enumeration forms have been received who have given a single document," he argued.

When Bhushan also pointed out that 240 electors have the same house address in the draft list, Justice Kant observed, "240 people can't be in one house." Bhushan also said the poll body took away the searchable option in the draft list after Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi's 'vote chori' press conference. However, the bench said they are unaware of any such press conference.

Another senior lawyer, Shadan Farasat, argued the entire exercise was flawed and the 65 lakh voters excluded from Bihar's voter list should be brought back. To this, the apex court said, "Don't ask us to bring back the dead." The bench will continue hearing the matter on Wednesday.
The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert warning for heavy to very heavy rains in Telangana today for some districts.

The Telangana government has also ordered the closure of all schools in five districts for two days, given the red alert issued and declared half-day schools in Hyderabad on August 13 and 14. All schools will be closed for Independence Day on August 15.

IT companies have also been advised to enable work from home.

STORY | Holiday for schools in five districts in Telangana following heavy rain forecast



READ: https://t.co/fdHspihmGB pic.twitter.com/wxQyZSJOsY  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 13, 2025

The red alert was issued for 5 districts, and an orange alert was given for 9 districts. Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, Mahabubnagar, Hanumakonda, Janagama, and Warangal districts have all been issued a red alert. Peddapalli, Karimnagar, Jayashankar Bhupalapally, Siddipet, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Medchal Malkajgiri, Ranga Reddy and Hyderabad districts will face very heavy rains.

There is also a possibility of cloudbursts for the next two days.

Heavy Rainfall Alert 



Telangana: Very heavy to extremely heavy rain likely in isolated areas from 13th to 16th August.

Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam & Rayalaseema: Isolated heavy to very heavy rain expected on 13th & 14th August.



 Safety First:

 Postpone non-essential pic.twitter.com/cQanKxxGje  India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) August 12, 2025

In preparation for the weather forecasts of rain in Telangana for the next 72 hours, Chief Minister A. Revanath Reddy has instructed officials to take necessary steps to prevent the loss of life during the heavy rains.

The chief minister asked officials to ensure that there is no vehicle movement on the flooding bridges, canals and streams and causeways brimming with heavy flows in the low-lying areas, according to an official press release.

The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency has advised residents in low-lying areas to move to safe locations and stay alert.

The agency also said that heavy rains are forecasted from August 13 to 15 and that northern Hyderabad, Medchal, Malkajgiri district, and Cyberabad areas are most likely to be affected. HYDRAA commissioner A.V. Ranganath also said that about 100 to 150 mm may fall in some places, like Medchal and Cyberabad

Hanumakonda, Jangaon, Mahabubabad, Warangal, and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts are all likely to face very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall on August 13 and 14. Rainfall of 10-15 centimetres is expected in these areas, and some places may receive up to 20 cm.
Six-time MP and BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudys re-election to the post of the Constitution Club secretary (administration) on Tuesdday revealed the serious infighting within the party, which saw Rudy take on fellow BJP leader Sanjeev Balyan. Rudy, who was at the helm of the Constitution Club for over 25 years, was credited with transforming the infrastructure of the Club.

The electoral battle, which saw several BJP leaders, including Nishikant Dubey, rally for Balyan, was pitted as pro-Rudy vs anti-Rudy by many. Interestingly, the chatter was that Balyan entered the fray on the instructions of Home Minister Amit Shah. Dubeys open support for Balyan and Amit Shah and BJP leader J P Nadda arriving to vote added impetus to the speculation.

Rumours were that Rudys candidature was covertly supported by UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and he had chosen to highlight his Bihari identity. Dubey and MP from Andhra Pradesh CM Ramesh openly sought votes for Balyan, making the contest tight for Rudy. It was expected that English-speaking MPs supported Rudy while MPs from rural regions, including the Jats, Ahirs, and Gujjars, backed Balyan.

But as the tug of war intensified, the opposition, including Congress and SP, felt that this was a big opportunity to defeat Amit Shahs candidate. Some believe this was why Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge decided to vote. Through the move, the Opposition planned to give a big blow to the BJPs real candidate, Balyan.

A total of 707 votes were cast, out of which Rudy got 354 direct votes and 38 postal ballots. He is said to have won the elections with a majority of over 100 votes. Everyone rose from their party lines and cast their vote. My panel had people from the Congress, SP, TMC, and independent MPs. I got the result of my efforts in the last two decades," Rudy said after his victory. Congress MP Rajiv Shukla became the secretary (sports) while DMK MP Tiruchi Siva became the secretary (culture) of the club.

While Rudys victory is being seen as a battle of Delhi BJP vs UP BJP in political circles. The opposition is seeing it as its victory against the government. At the same time, there is also a plan to put the BJP on the back foot by linking Rudy's victory to Bihari identity ahead of the Bihar elections.
On August 5 2025, at 1 pm in Dharali, Uttarkashi district, a settlement that had grown beside the pristine Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhands fragile Higher Himalayas was suddenly buried under 15 to 20 meters of landslide and glacial debris. The culprit? Kheer Gangaa stream so small it travels just 7 kilometres from its cirque glacier source before meeting the Bhagirathi River near Kalp Kedar temple.

Yet for scientists Navin Juyal and Hemant Dhyani, who served on the Supreme Courts expert bodies examining Himalayan disasters, this catastrophe was no surprise. They had been sounding alarms for years. Both Juyal and Dhyani are former members of the Supreme Courtappointed Expert Body (2013 Kedarnath disaster) and the 2019 High-Powered Committee on Char Dham road widening. They had foretold such calamities.

This indicates how ferocious the Higher Himalayan steep gradient glacial-fed streams are, they wrote in their document titled Dharali disaster: An Echo of Himalayan Vulnerability and Human Failure in the Bhagirathi eco-sensitive zone. This was red-flagged multiple times by the experts, but in vain.

In 2013, during the Kedarnath disaster, Dharali experienced significant damage from the same Kheer Ganga stream. Instead of relocating vulnerable settlements, authorities constructed an RCC wall to prevent flood debrisa band-aid solution that only encouraged more construction next to the stream. Hotels and resorts sprouted like mushrooms after rain, their foundations laid on the very debris flows that had once destroyed the area.

In March 2025, just months before disaster struck, Uttarakhands Tourism Department invited Prime Minister Modi to promote year-round tourism in the Char Dham valleys, which sit atop geological time bombs.

The Himalayas are the worlds most fragile orogenic belt, where tectonic forces, steep gradients, and climate change have combined to create extreme floods and landslides. Extreme weather events, intensified by climate change, are giving rise to high magnitude extreme floods, the authors explained.

But its not just natures fury at play. Human intervention has amplified the severity through road construction, hydropower projects, and settlements built dangerously close to rivers and streams. These events are intensified by global warming, rising black carbon emissions, and unchecked developmentall factors the experts have repeatedly warned about in official reports.

Recent decades have seen an alarming acceleration of glacial retreat, elevation-dependent warming, and changing surface characteristics. Black carbon deposits now found even in pristine glacier sites not only speed up melting but threaten the very cryosphere foundational to Himalayan ecology.

The geological evidence shows that in the last 1000 years, most major floods in the upper Ganga catchment were triggered by Landslide Lake Outburst Floods (LLOFs) originating in the Higher Himalayas. The 1978 landslide that blocked the Bhagirathi River for four days, creating a 175-meter-wide, 35-meter-high sediment dam, was just one example. Its remnants still constrict the river today.

Recognising these threats, the Government of India declared the Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone (BESZ) in 2012, protecting the 100-kilometre stretch from Gomukh to Uttarkashi.

BESZ protections only on paper

The notification included strict provisions: bans on development in hazard zones, protection of springs, mandatory carrying capacity studies for tourism, restrictions on riverbank construction, and no construction within 100 metres of the river.

The above provision in the notification remained on paper with virtually no compliance on the ground, Juyal and Dhyani wrote.

When they served on the BESZ Zonal Master Plan scrutiny committee, all members unanimously opposed the states casual approach, sending complaint letters to central ministries. Their efforts fell on deaf ears.

Despite Supreme Court mandates, the Char Dham road project advanced with a uniform, ecologically damaging design. The authors note that compliance with the BESZ notificationwhich could have restricted harmful practicesremained on paper only. The Char Dham road widening project epitomises this failure.

Despite the BESZ protections, authorities pushed ahead with uniform 10-meter widening, marking 6,000 precious Deodar trees for felling in just a 10-kilometre stretch between Jhala and Jangla.

Among the detailed recommendations made by Juyal and Dhyani were:

- Drop the Netala bypass, which would cut through unstable, old landslide deposits and pristine forest

- Bypass Bhatwaris chronic landslide zones with tunnels, grounded in geotechnical monitoring that showed steep slopes creeping by up to 22mm/year

- Reject road-widening through Sukhi Top, already destabilised by chronic landslides

- Opt for bridges and elevated corridors between Jhala and Jangla, to minimise both forest destruction and avalanche risksaving thousands of old Deodar trees

- Localise construction away from riverbanks and critical slopes, respecting the physical memory of the land

The scientists had surveyed this stretch painstakingly, identifying safer alternatives using elevated corridors and high-elevation bridges. Their alternate Detailed Project Report (DPR), submitted in October 2023, could have saved lives and trees.

Disregard for expert advice

Instead, by the authors testimony, it was effectively disregarded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

The disaster in Dharali, as explained by Juyal and Dhyani, is emblematic of official inertia and disregard for expert advice. Settlement grew unchecked near riverbanks and debris flows, defying all floodplain zoning and eco-zone master plan provisions.

Unlike past events, the Dharali disaster unfolded against a backdrop of official denialincluding a 2023 affidavit from Uttarakhands Tourism Department refusing to conduct any carrying capacity study.

The tragedy extends beyond Dharali. On the same August day, three glacial-fed streams activated simultaneously within three hours, causing unprecedented damage.

At Bhatwari, a notoriously unstable road segment with slopes creeping 12-22 millimetres per year, infrastructure collapsed again. Near the abandoned Lohari Nagpala hydropower project, flood waters swept away large segments of the Gangotri highway.

A particular frustration for the authors: not only had scientists flagged these risks repeatedly, but even legal mandates from the NGT and Namami Gange prohibiting construction within 100m of riverbanks were ignored.

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand Tourism Department fought against conducting carrying capacity studies, claiming existing measures were sufficient. The explosion of tourist infrastructure proceeded unchecked, despite clear warnings about the fragility of the Higher Himalayan ecosystems.

In their resolution and declarationpresented in the official documentJuyal and Dhyani demanded to:

- Adopt the flexible alternative road plan submitted in October 2023. This method, while not the final solution, would minimise damage to debris-laden slopes and valuable forest.

- Implement BESZ regulations fully and sincerely, transforming them from bureaucratic hurdles into genuine safeguards.

- Extend eco-sensitive zoning across all Higher Himalayan valleys, from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, to conserve biodiversity and reduce disaster risk.

- Let scientists speak for scienceurging honesty, integrity, and independence from bureaucratic expedience.

Juyal and Dhyanis recommendations remain urgent: implement the alternate DPR for highway construction, extend eco-sensitive zone protections across all Higher Himalayan valleys from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, and honour the BESZ notification in its true letter and spirit.

Elevated corridors, high-elevation bridges, bypass tunnels through stable rock formationsengineering solutions acknowledge the Himalayas awesome power while protecting human lives.

The Uttarkashi disaster stands as a searing indictment of development-at-any-cost and the silencing of scientific expertise. The authors offer a clear warning: Himalayas call for a new development narrative... fully embedded in environmental, socio-cultural, and sacred tenets.
AIADMK leader and former MP V Maitreyan joined M K Stalin-led DMK on Wednesday, becoming the second high-profile leader to leave the AIADMK fold to join the ruling party. Maitreyan, a renowned oncologist, joined the party in the presence of senior DMK leaders and ministers Duraimurugan and KN Nehru, and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin in Chennai.

This comes as a huge setback to AIADMK, which is hoping to revive its chances by allying with the BJP in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Former AIADMK MP V Maitreyan joins DMK in the presence of CM MK Stalin in Chennai.



(Source: DMK) pic.twitter.com/VeyOMfGeQc  ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2025 Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Former AIADMK MP Maitreyan joined the DMK, praising CM M.K. Stalins leadership in education, social progress, and economic leadership. He cited AIADMKs alliance with BJP and internal issues as reasons for leaving, adding others may follow pic.twitter.com/Q54hroI8Fc  IANS (@ians_india) August 13, 2025

Maitreyan said his decision to leave AIADMK was because nothing was moving right in the party. He said the AIADMK cadre was in a state of distress and there was much confusion within the party.

The AIADMKs course is not right. Amit Shah, while announcing the AIADMK-BJP alliance, announced a coalition government. He said it was a minimum action plan. But it is not clear on what basis a consensus has been reached between the AIADMK and the BJP, Maitreyan said, accusing the AIADMK of being under the clutches of the BJP. My services were not utilised by the party. Hence, I quit, he added.

He went on to praise the M K Stalin government, stating the Chief Minister was working not only for the welfare of Tamil Nadu but also for the welfare of all the states in the country.

Maitreyans career

A famous doctor based in Chennai, Maitrayens career has always been about party switching. He began his career in the BJP in the 1990s. He was the vice president and general secretary of the partys state unit, but was expelled for anti-party activities. In 1999, he moved to AIADMK after accepting the leadership of the late former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. Maitreyan was known as one of Jayalalithaa's confidants and went on to be Rajya Sabha MP for three consecutive terms. After Jayalalithaa's death, when the AIADMK split, he supported former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam. He was expelled from the party after he had a conflict with the EPS team. Following this, he went back to the BJP, but didnt receive any major posts there.

Last year, Maitreyan returned to AIADMK only to desert it a year later.
Several INDIA bloc MPs, including Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were seen wearing T-shirts featuring a photo of Minta Devi, a voter from Bihar's Siwan district, on Tuesday as they staged a protest in the Parliament House complex against the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar.

The protesters alleged that Minta Devi's age had been recorded as 124 in the draft voters list, as they sought to emphasise their allegation of widespread irregularities in the list.

Now, Minta Devi has responded to the Oppositions protest and also questioned their use of her name and image for political purposes.

"I came to know about this 2-4 days back... Who are they (Opposition MPs) to me? Who are Priyanka Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi to me? Who gave them the right to wear T-shirts featuring me?, she asked while talking to ANI news agency.

#WATCH | INDIA bloc MPs protested over SIR today by wearing T-shirts featuring the name Minta Devi, a voter allegedly listed as 124 years old in the EC's voter list.



In Siwan, Bihar, Minta Devi says, "...I came to know about this 2-4 days back...Who are they (Opposition MPs) to pic.twitter.com/DiTUmvQXUj  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

Why are they becoming my well-wisher over my age? This should not be done, I do not want this," she said.

Minta Devi also criticised the Election Commission over the alleged discrepancies in the draft voters list and demanded that they be corrected.

Whoever entered the details, did they do so with their eyes closed?... If I am 124 years old in the eyes of the government, why are they not giving me old-age pension? My Aadhaar card mentions 15-07-1990 as my date of birth," she further said.

The Opposition has been demanding a rollback of the Bihar SIR exercise. The INDIA bloc parties have also been targeting the poll panel and the Narendra Modi government over the alleged vote theft and poll rigging in several states, with the parliament witnessing repeated adjournments and disruptions over the last week.
Syria, Jordan and the United States have agreed to establish a joint working group to consolidate a fragile ceasefire in the southern province of Sweida, scene of deadly sectarian clashes last month that threatened the countrys post-war transition.

The decision followed high-level talks in Amman on Tuesday between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, and US special envoy Thomas Barrack. It was the second such meeting since July, part of a broader diplomatic effort to stabilise Syria under its transitional administration, formed after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December.

The discussions focused on sustaining peace in Sweida, protecting minority communities, promoting reconciliation, and supporting Syrias reconstruction after nearly 14 years of conflict. Hundreds of people, including many civilians, were killed in last months violence between Druze fighters, Bedouin tribesmen, and government forces. Videos of alleged executions, including that of a medic inside a hospital, provoked national outrage and drew international calls for accountability.

A joint statement reaffirmed that Sweida, with all its local communities, is an integral part of Syria and that the safety and rights of its residents must be preserved. The parties welcomed the Syrian government commitments to investigate violations, hold perpetrators accountable, and work with United Nations agencies.

The Druze city of Sweida following a so-called ceasefire between Sunni Islamist tribes and Druze forces. pic.twitter.com/6OHmr9EcFz  Open Source Intel (@Osint613) July 19, 2025

Although the July 19 ceasefire has survived tenuously so far, issues remain. Minorities still do not trust the new authorities in Damascus and are pushing for decentralisation. Damascus is also working hard to improve strained relations with US-backed, Kurdish-led forces in the northeast. Implementation of a deal signed to co-opt the Syrian Democratic Forces into the national army has not been working well, with sporadic clashes taking place.

The talks in Amman also addressed Syrias battered economy. The United Nations estimated in 2017 that rebuilding would cost $250 billion, but experts now believe the figure exceeds $400 billion. Damascus is courting foreign investment to restore infrastructure, revive industries, and boost living standards. Several Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have pledged billions of dollars. Last week, Syria signed 12 major investment agreements worth $14 billion, among them a $4 billion deal with Qatars UCC Holding to build a new airport and a $2 billion agreement with the UAEs National Investment Corporation to construct a Damascus subway.

Energy cooperation was another focus. Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir met his Iraqi counterpart Hayan Abdel-Ghani to explore reactivating an oil pipeline between Kirkuk and the Syrian port city of Baniyas, home to one of the countrys two refineries. The pipeline, heavily damaged by years of conflict, could be rebuilt or replaced. Before 2011, Syria produced about 380,000 barrels of oil a day, generating more than $3 billion annually, but the sector has since collapsed. Syria now imports three million barrels a month in addition to its own limited output.

Regional diplomacy is also shaping Syrias future. With Hezbollahs influence in Lebanon weakened and Assad gone, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has signalled interest in extending the Abraham Accords to Syria and Lebanon. Speaking in Jerusalem alongside Austrias foreign minister, Saar said Israel wanted to expand the circle of normalisation while safeguarding its security interests. He insisted the Golan Heights, seized from Syria in 1967 and later annexed in a move not recognised by the United Nations, would remain part of Israel in any future peace agreement.

Control of the Golan has long been a flashpoint, and Israel has intensified military operations in Syria since Assads fall. Following his removal, Israeli forces entered the UN-patrolled demilitarised zone and have conducted hundreds of airstrikes on military targets. In Lebanon, Hezbollahs reduced standing follows a costly conflict with Israel last year, itself linked to the war in Gaza.

US envoy Barrack told Turkeys Anadolu news agency that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa had expressed interest in peaceful relations with Israel. He has indicated that he does not hate Israel and that he wants peace on that border, Barrack said, adding that an agreement with Lebanon would also be a necessity.

Safadi and Barrack reaffirmed their countries support for Syrias security, stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity. They called on the international community to back reconstruction efforts that respect Syrias unity and the rights of all its people. The three sides agreed to meet again in the coming weeks to advance plans for the joint working group and other measures to strengthen the Sweida ceasefire and address the provinces crisis.

For Damascus, the diplomatic overtures mark a critical test of its ability to restore stability, rebuild trust among its diverse communities and re-engage with neighbours after decades of authoritarian rule and a devastating civil war.
Creators, take note. YouTube just made it easier to post, promote and grow your audience. The changes are small, but they could make a big difference to your day-to-day life.

More space to share in Community Posts

Creators can now upload up to 10 images in a single Community Post, instead of the previous limit of five.

This gives you more room to share photo series, behind-the-scenes shots, or a full set of moodboard images. It is a small but meaningful change for anyone who wants to stay active and engaging without having to post a full video every time. The update is rolling out this week on both desktop and mobile.

As YouTube explained: Until now, creators could only upload five images per post on their channel. Now, creators will be able to upload up to 10 images per post.

It might not sound huge, but it makes the Community tab more flexible and engaging for creators and followers alike.

YouTube is also giving creators more control when it comes to promoting their content or services. If youve used the Promote tool in YouTube Studio to run ads, youll notice that there are now clearer call-to-action options like Book Now, Contact Us, or Get Quote.

These buttons help guide viewers more directly, which is especially useful if youre offering a service, hosting a workshop or trying to generate leads.

YouTube said: When a campaign is created with a goal of more website visits, creators can now identify a more granular desired outcome.

Auto-dubbing just got smarter

For creators reaching an international audience, YouTubes auto-dubbing tool has received a helpful upgrade. Previously, if you made edits to a dubbed video, the translated voiceover could fall out of syncoften meaning you had to start the dubbing process from scratch.

Now, YouTube will automatically re-sync the dubbed audio after you make edits in Studio. This saves time and ensures that your translated content stays accurate.

All verified creators in the YouTube Partner Programme now have access to this feature. YouTube has also confirmed that tools for editing multilingual captions will be coming later this year.

After changes are saved, the autodub tracks will be recreated to match the edits, the platform explained.

Small updates that go a long way

These changes might not steal the spotlight, but they show that YouTube is paying attention to what creators really need. Whether you're posting a quick update, fine-tuning a promotion or building content for a global audience, the platform is making it easier to do it all.

In a world where creators are constantly managing content, community and business, these small improvements can make a big difference.
The biographer of US President Donald Trump has claimed that the President is searching for a new big thing to distract the country from his alleged links in the Epstein scandal. Journalist-turned-author Michael Wolff claims that thing could very well be Ukraine when Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

Wolff, who penned the bestseller Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House in 2018, told the Daily Beast podcast that Trump was making relentless calls to aides and allies to demand something to distract the US from questions over his links to the disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his lover-turned-sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell. There are allegations that Trumps name is in the files related to Epstein, and the clamour for the Trump administration to put documents related to the Epstein investigations before the public has been growing.

Trump, whose earlier distraction plans failed, is now ready to give up Ukraine to Vladimir Putin, Wolff said, stating that the word big thing is the code for a distraction.

BREAKING: Karoline Leavitt says that Trump is honored and looks forward to welcoming Vladimir Putin to American soil. This is not the way you talk about a bloodthirsty dictator who invaded a sovereign nation. pic.twitter.com/rOHgSUCtEA  Trump Lie Tracker (Commentary) (@MAGALieTracker) August 12, 2025

Let me go back about a week or so, or 10 days, when Trump started to say to everyone who would listenand everyone listens to Donald Trumpto staffers and on the phone calls, the relentless phone calls that hes constantly making, he said, I need a big thing. I need a big thing, Wolff told Daily Beast.

Also read: 'Distracting Americans from Epstein files': Outrage as Trump tries to justify deploying National Guard in US capital

Before Ukraine, Trump had other plans, the prominent one of which involved New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Trump planned on making him the next MAGA enemy, but it didnt pan out.

It didnt get that traction, Wolff said. I mean, Epstein still goes on behind everything. Epstein, Epstein, Epstein, that drum beat."

Wolffs allegations come amid reports that Trump was in touch with Andrew Cuomo, Mamdanis chief rival.

The President then considered another option: Flood soldiers and federal law enforcement into Washington DC.

According to Wolff, Trumps plan is to pull the US out of any involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, thereby pleasing the MAGA base, who didnt appreciate the USs involvement in the Ukraine-Russia war. Hes going to sacrifice Ukraine for Epstein, Wolff said. Essentially, this is, in his mind, a trade. It is the MAGA people who have pressed this Epstein issue constantly. I mean, theyre the threat, he said.
The state of Alaska in the United States is bracing for the key meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. The duo will meet at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in the northern part of Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday. The location of their meeting is of significance as it was chosen specially for its neutrality and security requirements available for the Russian leader.

Since Moscow's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russian airlines have been banned from landing in and flying over the territory of the US. For the same reason, there is a lot of buzz about the route the Russian President could take for his first flight to the US in a decade.

A Russian legal expert has now explained the route the Presidents flight might take and the prerequisites for the journey. To minimise the risk of flying over the territories of third countries, the President of the Russian Federation is highly likely to fly from Chukotka through the Bering Strait. In any case, this option looks the most logical," Vladimir Kanashevsky, head of the Department of Private International Law of the Moscow State Law University, told TASS.

Chukotka is an autonomous territorial division situated in the Russian Far East and is connected to Alaska by the Bering Strait, which is a narrow waterway separating the two landmasses. Though there is no direct air, road, or rail connection, it is possible to even travel across the frozen strait by foot.

Bering Strait | via X

Due to the ban, Putin will have to seek a permit for the flight over the territory of the United States and his landing in Alaska. This will be done through diplomatic channels.

Putins security details

Putin, who has one of the best security details in the world, will also be guarded by members of the United States Secret Service. The summit is taking place inside the largest military base in Alaska and was specially chosen for its security.

According to White House officials who spoke to CNN, the base was the only location that met the requirements for holding the historic meeting, although the White House hoped to avoid a situation where the Russian dictator and his entourage would be on U.S. military grounds.

The location also has historical significance. Alaska was colonised by Russia in the 18th century and was bought by the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million. Russia sold the piece of land to pay off a debt that had accumulated during the 1853 Crimean War, where the country lost to Britain, France, and the Ottoman Empire. It officially became part of the US in 1959 and is now the largest state in the country.
The recent diplomatic, military and trade signals show that President Donald Trumps second administration is titling towards Pakistan and away from India, says a top international security expert.

In an interview to news agency ANI, Max Abrahms claims he is not surprised by the nuclear threats made by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir against India from the American soil.

"What we had not heard before is this sort of nuclear threat from American soil. And if this was the only incident, I would find it rather unremarkable. But what we are currently witnessing is a trend where it appears that this second Trump administration is tilting towards Pakistan and away from India. We've actually seen it throughout this whole summer, Abrahms says.

#WATCH | Boston | On Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs nuclear threat, International Security expert and Associate Prof of Political Science at Northeastern University, Max Abrahms says, "... Trump administration talked about the India-Pakistan conflict as if those two countries pic.twitter.com/kdF2kxuq6m  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

The expert, however, admits he cannot fully understand the approach being adopted by the Trump administration as deepening trade and military ties with New Delhi was central to Washingtons Indo-Pacific strategy to contain China.

He terms Trumps current tariff policy towards India as unfair, offensive and destabilising.

#WATCH | Boston | International Security expert and Associate Prof of Political Science at Northeastern University, Max Abrahms says, "... if something is bad for the Indian economy, it is also not good for the US economy... It is in the interest of the US for Indian economic pic.twitter.com/HXVUSazdvq  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

However, given the unpredictability of Trump, Abrahms says, a reversal of the tariff hike is not unlikely. It is possible that Trump will end up massively alleviating the threatened tariffs against India... especially if there is some progress in that big Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin, he feels.

But, he warns that even such a reversal would not immediately repair the diplomatic damage.

Even if some of the tariffs, a substantial amount of the tariffs like that 25% I mentioned, are lifted, I still think that the US-India relationship may not fully recover for quite some time under this administration, says the expert.

Meanwhile, another military expert, Tom Cooper, says the renewed warmth in the US-Pakistan relationship after Operation Sindoor is silly.

Cooper tells ANI that the recent action of Islamabad are aimed at making US President Donald Trump look like a peacemaker.

#WATCH | Austria: On Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs nuclear threat, Tom Cooper, Military aviation analyst, says, "...The relations between the White House and Islamabad in the last few months were like two little kids, five- or six-year-olds talking about whose father is more pic.twitter.com/RyBAAkxZJP  ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025

"So this is actually a statement for the White House, on behalf of the White House, so that the Trump administration, Trump in particular, can present himself as a peace broker and deal-maker and deal-broker and say look, 'Pakistanis have threatened to attack India with nuclear weapons and it was I who has prevented this from happening. So I am the peacemaker in this conflict as well, not only regarding the war between Cambodia and Thailand or in Ukraine or in wherever else, but I made peace in this case as well,' so this is real," he says.
U.S. lawmakers from both parties are urging the Trump administration to maintain a three-way security partnership designed to supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines  a plea that comes as the Pentagon reviews the agreement and considers the questions it has raised about the American industrial infrastructures shipbuilding capabilities.

Two weeks ago, the Defense Department announced it would review AUKUS, the 4-year-old pact signed by the Biden administration with Australia and the United Kingdom. The announcement means the Republican administration is looking closely at a partnership that many believe is critical to the U.S. strategy to push back Chinas influence in the Indo-Pacific. The review is expected to be completed in the fall.

AUKUS is essential to strengthening deterrence in the Indo-Pacific and advancing the undersea capabilities that will be central to ensuring peace and stability, Republican Rep. John Moolenaar of Michigan and Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois wrote in a July 22 letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Moolenaar chairs the House panel on China and Krishnamoorthi is its top Democrat.

The review comes as the Trump administration works to rebalance its global security concerns while struggling with a hollowed-out industrial base that has hamstrung U.S. capabilities to build enough warships. The review is being led by Elbridge Colby, the No. 3 Pentagon official, who has expressed skepticism about the partnership.

If we can produce the attack submarines in sufficient number and sufficient speed, then great. But if we cant, that becomes a very difficult problem, Colby said during his confirmation hearing in March. This is getting back to restoring our defense industrial capacity so that we dont have to face these awful choices but rather can be in a position where we can produce not only for ourselves, but for our allies.

US cannot build enough ships

As part of the $269 billion AUKUS partnership, the United States will sell three to five Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, with the first delivery scheduled as soon as 2032. The U.S. and the U.K. would help Australia design and build another three to five attack submarines to form an eight-boat force for Australia.

A March report by the Congressional Research Service warned that the lack of U.S. shipbuilding capacities, including workforce shortage and insufficient supply chains, is jeopardizing the much-celebrated partnership. If the U.S. should sell the vessels to Australia, the U.S. Navy would have a shortage of attack submarines for two decades, the report said.

The Navy has been ordering two boats per year in the last decade, but U.S. shipyards have been only producing 1.2 Virginia-class subs a year since 2022, the report said.

The delivery pace is not where it needs to be to make good on the first pillar of AUKUS, Admiral Daryl Caudle, nominee for the Chief of Naval Operations, told the Senate Armed Services Committee last month.

Australia has invested $1 billion in the U.S. submarine industrial base, with another $1 billion to be paid before the end of this year. It has agreed to contribute a total of $3 billion to uplift the U.S. submarine base, and it has sent both industry personnel to train at U.S. shipyards and naval personnel for submarine training in the United States.

Australia was clear that we would make a proportionate contribution to the United States industrial base, an Australian defense spokesperson said in July. Australias contribution is about accelerating U.S. production rates and maintenance to enable the delivery of Australias future Virginia-class submarines.

The three nations have also jointly tested communication capabilities with underwater autonomous systems, Australias defense ministry said on July 23. Per the partnership, the countries will co-develop other advanced technologies, from undersea to hypersonic capabilities.

At the recent Aspen Security Forum, Kevin Rudd, the Australian ambassador to the United States, said his country is committed to increasing defense spending to support its first nuclear-powered sub program, which would also provide massively expensive full maintenance repair facilities for the U.S. Indo-Pacific fleet based in Western Australia.

Rudd expressed confidence that the two governments will work our way through this stuff.

AUKUS called crucial to American deterrence

Bruce Jones, senior fellow with the Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy and Technology, told The Associated Press that the partnership, by positioning subs in Western Australia, is helping arm the undersea space that is really crucial to American deterrence and defense options in the Western Pacific.

The right answer is not to be content with the current pace of submarine building. Its to increase the pace, Jones said.

Jennifer Parker, who has served more than 20 years with the Royal Australian Navy and founded Barrier Strategic Advisory, said it should not be a zero-sum game. You might sell one submarine to Australia, so you have one less submarine on paper. But in terms of the access, you have the theater of choice from operating from Australia, from being able to maintain your submarines from Australia, Parker said. This is not a deal that just benefits Australia.

Defense policy is one of the few areas where Republican lawmakers have pushed back against the Trump administration, but their resolve is being tested with the Pentagons review of AUKUS. So far, they have joined their Democratic colleagues in voicing support for the partnership.

They said the U.S. submarine industry is rebounding with congressional appropriations totaling $10 billion since 2018 to ensure the U.S. will have enough ships to allow for sales to Australia.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., told the AP that support for AUKUS is strong and bipartisan, certainly on the Armed Services Committee.

There is a little bit of mystification about the analysis done at the Pentagon, Kaine said, adding that maybe (what) the analysis will say is: We believe this is a good thing.

(AP)
The driver was clocked going 27 kilometers per hour (17 mph) over the speed limit on a street in the Swiss city of Lausanne, and now hes facing up to 90,000 Swiss francs (over $110,000) in fines as a result. But he can afford it.

Why the eye-popping penalty? Because the speedster, a repeat offender, is one of Switzerlands wealthiest people, and the Vaud canton, or region, serves up fines based on factors like income, fortune or general family financial situation.

The Swiss are not alone. Germany, France, Austria and the Nordic countries all issue punishments based on a persons wealth. The recent fine isnt even a record in Switzerland. In 2010, a millionaire Ferrari driver got a ticket equal to about $290,000 for speeding in the eastern canton of St. Gallen.

Back then, the Swiss safety group Road Cross said rich drivers had been lightly punished until voters approved a penal law overhaul three years earlier that let judges hand down fines based on personal income and wealth for misdemeanors like speeding and drunk driving.

Under todays rules, an indigent person might spend a night in jail instead of a fine, while the wealthiest in the rich Alpine country could be on the hook for tens of thousands.

A court in the Swiss canton of Vaud recently ruled that the tycoon must pay 10,000 Swiss francs ($12,300) up front and could be forced to pay the rest  80,000 more  if hes caught for a similar roadway infraction over the next three years.

Switzerlands 24 Heures newspaper first reported the case and said the man, who was not identified, was a French citizen listed by Swiss economic weekly Bilan among the 300 richest people in Switzerland  with a fortune in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

The daily reported that an automated police radar photographed the offender driving at 77 kilometers per hour (48 mph) in a 50 kph (31 mph) zone on a Lausanne street. A quick-calculating prosecutor tallied the maximum fine the driver faced under the law, the report said.

Vincent Derouand, a spokesperson for the Vaud public prosecutors office, said the defendant didnt contest the decision, which was handed down in June for the infraction nearly a year ago  in August 2024.

The Vaud criminal code sets a maximum financial penalty based on the personal and economic situation of the offender at the time of the ruling  notably taking into account issues like income, fortune, lifestyle and family financial needs.

The newspaper reported that he had already been caught for a similar speeding infraction eight years ago, and also paid 10,000 Swiss francs in penalty and faced another 60,000 if another infraction had taken place within the following two years.

In Switzerland, penalties for speeding can even catch up with the cops: One officer was fined for racing at nearly twice the speed limit through Geneva streets back in 2016 while chasing thieves who had blown up a bank teller machine.

(AP)
The Los Angeles headquarters of the Israeli-American Council (IAC) was vandalized with swastikas, Nazi SS symbols, and antisemitic slurs, in a brazen hate crime amid surging anti-Jewish incidents across the United States.

Bright yellow graffiti reading burn alongside a swastika and SS lightning bolts was spray-painted at the entrance to the IACs Woodland Hills building. A cardboard snowman in the entryway was also defaced with a swastika. Nearby, along the Highway 101 freeway entrance, vandals scrawled [Expletive] Jews, BDS, referencing the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement. Additional swastikas were discovered throughout the area.

Security cameras captured an image of the suspect, and the IAC said it is working closely with the Los Angeles Police Departments Topanga Community Police Division to investigate.

This attack is not just on our building, but on the values we stand for: unity, safety, and pride in our identity, the IAC wrote in a statement. CEO Elan Carr vowed the organization would not be intimidated. On the contrary, it fuels our determination to stand even stronger against antisemitism and to protect and strengthen our community for generations to come.

The IAC, founded in 2007 to strengthen bonds within the Israeli-American community, said the vandalism was part of a broader climate of escalating antisemitism since Hamas October 7, 2023, massacre in Israel.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents in the United States reached an unprecedented 9,354 cases in 2024  an average of more than 25 per day, or one every hour.

Police have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the attack.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday arrived in Berlin for talks with the German chancellor and virtual meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump and other European leaders ahead of Fridays planned summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has convened the virtual meetings in an attempt to make sure European and Ukraines leaders are heard ahead of the summit in Alaska, where Trump and Putin are expected to discuss a path toward ending Moscows war in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy and the Europeans have been sidelined from that summit. German government spokesperson Steffen Meyer said the intention of Wednesdays meetings was to make clear the position of the Europeans.

Zelenskyy is due to meet with European leaders first, in preparation for a virtual call with Trump and Vice President JD Vance about an hour later. A call among leaders of countries involved in the coalition of the willing  those who are prepared to help police any future peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv  will take place last.

The Ukrainian leader on Wednesday said his government has had over 30 conversations with partners ahead of the summit in Alaska, but reiterated his doubt that Putin would negotiate in good faith.

Writing on his official Telegram channel, Zelenskyy said there was currently no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war, and urged Ukraines partners in the United States and Europe to coordinate efforts and force Russia to peace.

Pressure must be applied on Russia for an honest peace. We must take the experience of Ukraine and our partners to prevent deception by Russia, Zelenskyy said.

The stakes for Europe

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, describing Fridays summit as a feel-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leaders intentions.

Yet Trump has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He has also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and was dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace. Trump said that following Fridays summit, a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders could be arranged, or that it could also be a meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy and me.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the European Union, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

The overarching fear of many European countries is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Land concessions a non-starter for Kyiv

Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not give up any territory it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focusing on ending the war have not addressed key Ukrainian demands, including security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and including Europe in negotiations.

Three weeks after Trump returned to office, his administration took the leverage of Ukraines NATO membership off the table  something that Putin has demanded  and signaled that the EU and Ukraine must handle security in Europe now while America focuses its attention elsewhere.

Senior EU officials believe that Trump may be satisfied with simply securing a ceasefire in Ukraine, and is probably more interested in broader U.S. geostrategic interests and great power politics, aiming to ramp up business with Russia and rehabilitate Putin.

Russian advances in Donbas

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donbas region comprises Ukraines eastern industrial heartland that Putin has long coveted.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles have said Ukraines ability to fend off those advances could be critical: Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces struck an oil pumping station in Russias Bryansk region overnight on Wednesday, according to a statement from Ukraines General Staff.

Ukrainian drones struck the Unecha station which supplies the Russian army, the statement said, adding that damage and a large fire was reported in the area around the pumping station.

Unecha transports oil to two pipelines with an annual capacity to pump 60 million tons. The operation was carried out by units of the Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraines army and the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Defense Ministry, the statement said.

(AP)
A shul in Obninsk, Russia, was firebombed Tuesday night in what its rabbi says was a clear and calculated act of antisemitism  the second such attack on the building in just over a year.

According to the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia, at least three Molotov cocktails were thrown at the building. The incendiary devices scorched the shuls front door and warped the metal canopy above the entrance.

The incident comes almost exactly 13 months after the same shul was targeted in an arson attack on July 10, 2024. In that case, vandals set fire to the buildings electrical box, shattered windows, and damaged the fence, but were unable to break inside. Police later detained two minors in connection with the attack  one of them not yet eight years old  but the shuls leadership was not satisfied with the investigation.

This is an act of antisemitism  that is the only way to classify a second arson attack on a synagogue, said the shuls rav, Rabbi Aaron Golovchiner, in a statement after the attack.

Rabbi Golovchiner voiced frustration over the handling of last years case, insisting that the damage inflicted then could not have been carried out by young children alone. We pointed out to the police that the nature of the buildings damage was such that children could not have done it on their own, he said, alleging that malicious actors were using minors to carry out attacks in order to escape criminal responsibility.

Now this impunity has led to a new crime, he added.

Local authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with Tuesday nights attack.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
An air traffic controller at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris told an El Al pilot over the radio, Free Palestine, moments after takeoff.

The pilot reported the disturbing incident to El Als management. It should be noted that according to strict air traffic regulations, controllers are forbidden from transmitting any non-air traffic-related communications over pilots radios.

El Al responded by saying, El Al views the incident that occurred last night, in which a French flight controller addressed the companys pilot in an unprofessional and inappropriate manner, with severity. We are addressing the matter with the Israeli authorities, who are in contact with their French counterparts.

El Al will continue to fly around the world with the Israeli flag on its aircraft tails with pride, while maintaining professionalism and the safety and security of passengers and crews.

Ynet reported on Monday evening that in the past six months, French authorities have stopped renewing work visas for El Al flight security guards employed in Paris.

Less than a week ago, the El Al office in Paris was vandalized. The building was sprayed with red paint, including the antisemitic statements El Al: Genocide Airline and Free Palestine.

(YWN Israel DeskJerusalem)
Iranian authorities say they detained more than 21,000 people during the 12-day air war with Israel in June, marking the first time the countrys police have released an overall figure from the conflict.

State TV quoted police spokesperson Gen. Saeed Montazeralmahdi on Tuesday as saying that the suspects were reported to authorities by civilians, describing the mass arrests as proof of high awareness and participation of people in providing security.

Montazeralmahdi did not specify the charges most detainees might face. He said more than 260 were suspected of espionage and 172 were taken into custody for illegal filming. During the conflict, which ran from June 13 to 24, police set up more than 1,000 checkpoints nationwide, he added.

Iran has regularly announced individual arrests on spying allegations in recent weeks, but the newly disclosed figure reflects the scale of the detentions for the first time.

The announcement comes amid an ongoing crackdown. Just last week, Tehran confirmed the execution of Rouzbeh Vadi, convicted of providing Mossad with intelligence that aided in the targeted killings of an Iranian nuclear scientist. Authorities said Vadi was hanged during the June conflict.

Since late June, Iran has executed seven men on charges of spying for Israel  a pace that rights activists warn could signal a broader wave of executions in the weeks and months ahead.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Irans state-run IRNA news agency reported over the weekend that the Jewish community of Isfahan has assembled food and supply packages for residents of the Gaza Strip.

According to the report, the aid  consisting of non-perishable food and other essentials  was prepared under the direction of Zion Mahgerefteh, head of the Isfahan Jewish Association. Mahgerefteh said the effort was meant to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Gaza and noted that community members gathered earlier in the week at the citys David Synagogue to show public support.

The spiritual side of this action matters more to us than its material value, as it symbolizes the solidarity of Irans Jewish community, and Jews worldwide, with the oppressed people of Palestine, Mahgerefteh was quoted as saying.

In remarks eerily similar official Iranian talking points, Mahgerefteh also criticized Israel, saying that Jews worldwide oppose Zionist agendas and view Zionists as separate from the Jewish faith, and accused such groups of violence and oppression, which no divine religion can justify.

The Isfahan Jewish Association issued its own statement condemning what it described as Israels inhumane crimes in Gaza, saying the community viewed events there with heavy hearts and concerned eyes and asserting that no honorable person can tolerate the situation. The statement expressed hope that, under the leadership of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans government and Jewish citizens could contribute to aiding Gaza, calling the food package a modest effort toward that goal.

While the association acknowledged logistical challenges in delivering supplies due to the war and distance, it maintained that non-perishable items were the most practical form of assistance at present.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Israel is in discussions with South Sudan about the possibility of resettling Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to the war-torn East African country, part of a wider effort by Israel to facilitate mass emigration from the territory left in ruins by its 22-month offensive against Hamas.

Six people familiar with the matter confirmed the talks to The Associated Press. Its unclear how far the talks have advanced.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he wants to realize U.S. President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population through what Netanyahu refers to as voluntary migration. Israel has floated similar resettlement proposals with other African nations.

I think that the right thing to do, even according to the laws of war as I know them, is to allow the population to leave, and then you go in with all your might against the enemy who remains there, Netanyahu said Tuesday in an interview with i24, and Israeli TV station. He did not make reference to South Sudan.

Palestinians, rights groups, and much of the international community have rejected the proposals as a blueprint for forcible expulsion in violation of international law.

For South Sudan, such a deal could help it build closer ties to Israel, now the almost unchallenged military power in the Middle East. It is also a potential inroad to Trump, who broached the idea of resettling Gazas population in February but appears to have backed away in recent months.

Israels Foreign Ministry declined to comment and South Sudans foreign minister did not respond to questions about the talks. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said it doesnt comment on private diplomatic conversations.

Egypt opposes proposals to resettle Palestinians out of Gaza

Joe Szlavik, the founder of a U.S. lobbying firm working with South Sudan, said he was briefed by South Sudanese officials on the talks. He said an Israeli delegation plans to visit the country to look into the possibility of setting up camps for Palestinians there. No known date has been set for the visit. Israel did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation of the visit.

Szlavik said Israel would likely pay for makeshift camps.

Edmund Yakani, who heads a South Sudanese civil society group, said he had also spoken to South Sudanese officials about the talks. Four additional officials with knowledge of the discussions confirmed talks were taking place on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss them publicly.

Two of the officials, both from Egypt, told AP theyve known for months about Israels efforts to find a country to accept Palestinians, including its contact with South Sudan. They said theyve been lobbying South Sudan against taking the Palestinians.

Egypt is deeply opposed to plans to transfer Palestinians out of Gaza, with which it shares a border, fearing an influx of refugees into its own territory.

The AP previously reported on similar talks initiated by Israel and the U.S. with Sudan and Somalia, countries that are also grappling with war and hunger, and the breakaway region of Somalia known as Somaliland. The status of those discussions is not known.

Cash-strapped South Sudan needs any ally

Szlavik, whos been hired by South Sudan to improve its relations with the United States, said the U.S. is aware of the discussions with Israel but is not directly involved.

South Sudan wants the Trump administration to lift a travel ban on the country and remove sanctions from some South Sudanese elites, said Szlavik. It has already accepted eight individuals swept up in the administrations mass deportations, in what may have been an effort to curry favor.

The Trump administration has pressured a number of countries to help facilitate deportations.

Cash-strapped South Sudan needs any ally, financial gain and diplomatic security it can get, said Peter Martell, a journalist and author of a book about the country, First Raise a Flag.

Israels Mossad spy agency provided aid to the South Sudanese during their decades-long civil war against the Arab-dominated government in Khartoum ahead of independence in 2011, according to the book.

The State Department, asked if there was any quid pro quo with South Sudan, said decisions on the issuing of visas are made in a way that prioritizes upholding the highest standards for U.S. national security, public safety, and the enforcement of our immigration laws.

Many Palestinians might want to leave Gaza, at least temporarily, to escape the war and a hunger crisis bordering on famine. But they have roundly rejected any permanent resettlement from what they see as an integral part of their national homeland.

They fear that Israel will never allow them to return, and that a mass departure would allow it to annex Gaza and reestablish Jewish settlements there, as called for by far-right ministers in the Israeli government.

Still, even those Palestinians who want to leave are unlikely to take their chances in South Sudan, among the worlds most unstable and conflict-ridden countries.

South Sudan has struggled to recover from a civil war that broke out after independence, and which killed nearly 400,000 people and plunged pockets of the country into famine. The oil-rich country is plagued by corruption and relies on international aid to help feed its 11 million people  a challenge that has only grown since the Trump administration made sweeping cuts to foreign assistance.

A peace deal reached seven years ago has been fragile and incomplete, and the threat of war returned when the main opposition leader was placed under house arrest this year.

Palestinians in particular could find themselves unwelcome. The long war for independence from Sudan pitted the mostly Christian and animist south against the predominantly Arab and Muslim north.

Yakani, of the civil society group, said South Sudanese would need to know who is coming and how long they plan to stay, or there could be hostilities due to the historical issues with Muslims and Arabs.

South Sudan should not become a dumping ground for people, he said. And it should not accept to take people as negotiating chips to improve relations.

(AP)
The Israel Defense Forces on Tuesday accused armed terrorists in the central Gaza Strip of disguising themselves as humanitarian workers from the World Central Kitchen (WCK), publishing video evidence of the deception and confirming the operatives were killed in an airstrike.

According to the IDF, five armed men were spotted earlier this week near a vehicle bearing the WCK logo in the Deir al-Balah area. They wore yellow vests and displayed the emblem in an attempt to disguise their activities and avoid being targeted, cynically exploiting the status and trust given to aid organizations, the military said.

The IDF said it verified the incident with WCK through COGAT, the Defense Ministry unit overseeing civilian affairs in Gaza and the West Bank. WCK confirmed the vehicle and individuals were not affiliated with the organization. A short time after being identified, the armed operatives  deemed an imminent threat to Israeli forces  were eliminated in a precision drone strike.

We strongly condemn anyone posing as WCK or other humanitarians, as this endangers civilians and aid workers, the organization said in a statement. The safety and security of our teams are our top priority.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

The strike came amid ongoing Israeli military activity across Gaza. The IDF said an additional drone strike in Deir al-Balah on Monday targeted Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives, though it provided no further details. Palestinian media reported five fatalities in the area.

Gazan outlets also claimed Israeli special forces in a Volkswagen minibus abducted a man identified as Ismail Abd al-Karim Khattab from Deir al-Balah and took him into Israel via the Kissufim corridor. The reports, which remain unverified, alleged that heavy airstrikes followed in the area as Israeli forces withdrew.

Separately, the IDF said troops from the 188th Armored Brigade came under mortar fire in southern Gazas Khan Younis. The soldiers directed an Israeli drone to destroy the building from which the attack originated.

Even as fighting persisted, Western nations and the UAE airdropped 97 tons of food into Gaza on Tuesday, following the entry of 300 aid trucks the previous day. Spain said it had evacuated dozens of sick or wounded children from the enclave over the past several months.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A frum man, Danny Sitruk, 65, was walking alone on the street on Shabbos at about 11 a.m. in the Seine-Saint-Denis area, northeast of Paris, when a car with three people stopped next to him.

Two men got out of the car and asked for directions. But then suddenly, one of them punched Danny in the face while the other one tore a gold chain with a Magen Dovid pendant from his neck.

Sitruk suffered from bruises to his left eye, hemorrhages, and swelling. He was evacuated by paramedics who were called to the scene, and the doctor determined that he had suffered an injury to the eye and cheek area.

Sitruk later filed a complaint to the police.

Just this week in Lyon, the third largest city in France, a Charedi couple was physically attacked as they left a restaurant, with two people calling them dirty Jews and other epithets and screaming death threats at them.

(YWN Israel DeskJerusalem)
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has come under fire after abruptly rescinding its invitation to screen The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, a Canadian documentary recounting the harrowing survival and rescue of Israeli civilians during the October 7 Hamas massacre.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Barry Avrich, the film follows retired IDF General Noam Tibons dramatic journey to rescue his son, journalist Amir Tibon, and his family from terrorists attacking Kibbutz Nachal Ozfighting his way past ambushes and wounded survivors along the route. The story has been widely publicized, including on 60 Minutes, and optioned for a film dramatization.

TIFF initially invited the film in mid-July, attaching conditions including a title change, legal clearances, and insurance documentation. But just weeks before the festival, the producers were told by TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey to withdraw. When they refused, TIFF officially disinvited the film.

According to Deadline, the sticking point was TIFFs demand for proof that the filmmakers had obtained permission to use video recorded by Hamas terrorists during the massacrea legal clearance the filmmakers say was impossible and absurd. Kan quoted sources saying the footages owners were Hamass own Nukhba terrorists, whose videos have been used in numerous other documentaries about October 7.

Avrich and his team condemned TIFFs decision, saying in a statement: We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming. Film is an art form that stimulates debate and can make us uncomfortable. The audiencenot the festivalshould decide what they will or wont see.

Jewish advocacy organizations accused TIFF of bowing to political pressure and rewarding threats of violence. Noah Shack, CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, blasted the move: It is unconscionable that TIFF is allowing a small mob of extremists to dictate what films Canadians can see. This sends the unmistakable message that Torontos Jewish community is no longer safe or welcome at TIFF.

The Creative Community for Peace (CCFP) called TIFFs explanation a pretext: Does anyone believe Hamas would authorize the use of evidence of its own war crimes? By silencing this film, TIFF abandons artistic freedom and tells the world that some victims stories matter more than others.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Terrorists threw stones at an off-duty IDF soldier and an Israeli civilian during civilian engineering work near the village of Duma in the Shomron area.

The soldier initially fired into the air, but when the terrorists continued throwing stones, he fired to remove the threat, killing one of the terrorists. Later, the terrorists tried to snatch the soldiers weapon.

Footage from the incident shows dozens of terrorists standing close to the soldier, with one of them approaching and throwing a stone at him with force. The soldier then fired at the terrorist.

Additional IDF forces were called to the scene and dispersed the crowd. The soldier and the civilian were lightly injured by the stones hurled at them, received medical treatment at the scene, and were evacuated in mild condition to Beilinson Hospital.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

(YWN Israel DeskJerusalem)
Elon Musk has threatened to sue Apple for not putting his artificial intelligence chatbot at the top of its download charts.

The combative Tesla boss has found himself embroiled in another row with the iPhone maker and Sam Altmans OpenAI group.

Accusing Apple of breaking competition laws, Musk said that it was impossible for any other AI company besides OpenAI to top the App Store charts.

He said apps including his social platform X, formerly Twitter, and AI tool Grok, were missing out.

Musk said: Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach Number 1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation.

And he claimed that the App Store refuses to list either of his apps in its Must Have section.

The most downloaded free app on the App Store is OpenAIs ChatGPT, while Grok is at number six.

The combative Tesla boss has found himself embroiled in another row with the iPhone maker and Sam Altmans OpenAI group.

In a scathing response, Open AIs Altman said: This is a remarkable claim given what I have heard alleged that Elon does to manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesnt like.

The war of words is another instalment in a feud between Musk, the worlds richest man worth 281billion, and Altman, who is worth around 2billion.

Just last week, Altman dismissed Musk and said: I dont think about him that much.

He said it seemed as if Musk was just, like, tweeting all day [on X] about how much OpenAI sucks, and our model is bad, and, you know, were not gonna be a good company and all that.

Musk and Altman founded OpenAI in 2015 but Musk left in 2019 and founded his own AI firm called xAI, which develops the chatbot Grok.

Musk has also been involved in a spat with former ally US President Donald Trump.

Their relationship soured in June when Musk criticised the presidents tax policies.

Apple last night did not comment on Musks accusations. It is not the first time the tech giant has come under heat over its App store.

It was fined 371million in July by the EU for breaching competition rules and was even threatened with higher penalties.

The EU had ruled that Apple prevented app developers from directing consumers outside its own platform.
Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (NYSE:RYAM  Free Report)  Research analysts at Sidoti Csr dropped their Q3 2025 earnings estimates for shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials in a research report issued on Thursday, August 7th. Sidoti Csr analyst D. Harriman now anticipates that the basic materials company will post earnings of ($0.07) per share for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $0.08. The consensus estimate for Rayonier Advanced Materials current full-year earnings is ($0.08) per share. Sidoti Csr also issued estimates for Rayonier Advanced Materials Q4 2025 earnings at ($0.09) EPS, FY2025 earnings at ($1.08) EPS, Q1 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS, Q2 2026 earnings at ($0.01) EPS and FY2026 earnings at $0.14 EPS.

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A number of other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada lowered their price objective on shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials from $9.00 to $6.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, May 15th.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Price Performance

RYAM opened at $4.76 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.10, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.45. Rayonier Advanced Materials has a 1-year low of $3.35 and a 1-year high of $10.28. The company has a 50-day moving average of $4.07 and a 200-day moving average of $5.02. The company has a market capitalization of $319.19 million, a P/E ratio of -0.71 and a beta of 2.49.

Rayonier Advanced Materials (NYSE:RYAM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The basic materials company reported ($0.43) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.20) by ($0.23). The company had revenue of $340.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $387.07 million. Rayonier Advanced Materials had a negative return on equity of 12.11% and a negative net margin of 29.23%.

Institutional Trading of Rayonier Advanced Materials

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its position in shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials by 3.8% in the 4th quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 3,970,285 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $32,754,000 after acquiring an additional 146,799 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in Rayonier Advanced Materials by 1.6% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 3,794,079 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $21,816,000 after purchasing an additional 58,671 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its stake in Rayonier Advanced Materials by 5.8% in the 2nd quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 2,565,807 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $9,878,000 after purchasing an additional 140,703 shares during the period. Renaissance Technologies LLC boosted its stake in Rayonier Advanced Materials by 29.8% in the 4th quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 2,021,444 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $16,677,000 after purchasing an additional 464,630 shares during the period. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC boosted its stake in Rayonier Advanced Materials by 2.4% in the 2nd quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,557,852 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $5,996,000 after purchasing an additional 36,298 shares during the period. 68.64% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Insider Buying and Selling at Rayonier Advanced Materials

In other Rayonier Advanced Materials news, CEO Delyle W. Bloomquist bought 63,291 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 16th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $3.95 per share, with a total value of $249,999.45. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer directly owned 486,024 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,919,794.80. This trade represents a 14.97% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Corporate insiders own 4.41% of the companys stock.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc manufactures and sells cellulose specialty products in the United States, China, Latin America, Canada, Japan, Europe, Latin America, other Asian countries, and internationally. It operates through High Purity Cellulose, Paperboard, and High-Yield Pulp segments. The companys products include cellulose specialties, which are natural polymers that are used as raw materials to manufacture a range of consumer-oriented products, such as liquid crystal displays, impact-resistant plastics, thickeners for food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cigarette filters, high-tenacity rayon yarn for tires and industrial hoses, food casings, paints, and lacquers.

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Manulife Financial Corp (NYSE:MFC  Free Report) (TSE:MFC)  Investment analysts at National Bank Financial dropped their Q3 2025 earnings per share estimates for Manulife Financial in a report issued on Wednesday, August 6th. National Bank Financial analyst G. Dechaine now anticipates that the financial services provider will post earnings of $0.74 per share for the quarter, down from their prior estimate of $0.77. The consensus estimate for Manulife Financials current full-year earnings is $2.87 per share. National Bank Financial also issued estimates for Manulife Financials FY2025 earnings at $2.91 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $3.23 EPS.

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A number of other research firms also recently issued reports on MFC. Royal Bank Of Canada lowered their target price on Manulife Financial from $51.00 to $49.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, August 8th. Morgan Stanley set a $46.00 price target on Manulife Financial in a research report on Monday, May 19th.

Manulife Financial Stock Performance

NYSE:MFC opened at $30.15 on Monday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $31.12 and its 200 day simple moving average is $30.54. The company has a market cap of $51.20 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.46, a P/E/G ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 1.01. Manulife Financial has a 52-week low of $25.09 and a 52-week high of $33.07.

Manulife Financial (NYSE:MFC  Get Free Report) (TSE:MFC) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $11.30 billion during the quarter. Manulife Financial had a net margin of 10.46% and a return on equity of 15.77%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.91 earnings per share.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Manulife Financial

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of MFC. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Manulife Financial by 11.1% in the second quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 26,967 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $862,000 after purchasing an additional 2,703 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Manulife Financial by 6.3% in the second quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 30,574 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $977,000 after purchasing an additional 1,819 shares during the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Manulife Financial in the second quarter valued at approximately $4,364,000. Aviso Financial Inc. grew its position in shares of Manulife Financial by 8.4% in the second quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. now owns 155,601 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,974,000 after purchasing an additional 12,039 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Picton Mahoney Asset Management acquired a new position in shares of Manulife Financial in the second quarter valued at approximately $63,255,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 52.56% of the companys stock.

Manulife Financial Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 19th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, August 20th will be given a dividend of $0.3199 per share. This represents a $1.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.2%. This is a boost from Manulife Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.32. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 20th. Manulife Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 57.14%.

Manulife Financial Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in the United States, Canada, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; and Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment offers investment advice and solutions to retirement, retail, and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels, including agents and brokers affiliated with the company, independent securities brokerage firms and financial advisors pension plan consultants, and banks.

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OR Royalties Inc. (NYSE:OR  Free Report)  Investment analysts at Raymond James Financial boosted their Q3 2025 earnings estimates for shares of OR Royalties in a report issued on Wednesday, August 6th. Raymond James Financial analyst B. Macarthur now forecasts that the basic materials company will earn $0.20 per share for the quarter, up from their prior estimate of $0.19. The consensus estimate for OR Royalties current full-year earnings is $0.62 per share. Raymond James Financial also issued estimates for OR Royalties Q4 2025 earnings at $0.20 EPS, FY2025 earnings at $0.74 EPS, Q4 2026 earnings at $0.19 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $0.71 EPS.

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OR Royalties (NYSE:OR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The basic materials company reported $0.13 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by ($0.04). The firm had revenue of $60.36 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $83.25 million. OR Royalties had a net margin of 35.25% and a return on equity of 8.56%.

Several other equities analysts have also recently weighed in on OR. CIBC reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of OR Royalties in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of OR Royalties from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, July 12th. Scotiabank raised their price target on shares of OR Royalties from $26.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock a sector outperform rating in a research note on Monday, July 7th. Finally, National Bankshares reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of OR Royalties in a research note on Tuesday, June 24th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $24.33.

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OR Royalties Stock Performance

Shares of OR stock opened at $30.74 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.03, a quick ratio of 4.73 and a current ratio of 4.73. The company has a market capitalization of $5.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 83.07 and a beta of 0.71. The companys 50 day moving average price is $27.15 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $23.36. OR Royalties has a 52 week low of $16.50 and a 52 week high of $30.98.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of OR. Edmond DE Rothschild Holding S.A. grew its position in OR Royalties by 6.2% in the second quarter. Edmond DE Rothschild Holding S.A. now owns 110,408 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,826,000 after acquiring an additional 6,407 shares during the last quarter. Horizon Kinetics Asset Management LLC grew its position in OR Royalties by 6.7% in the second quarter. Horizon Kinetics Asset Management LLC now owns 1,817,501 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $46,728,000 after acquiring an additional 114,464 shares during the last quarter. Picton Mahoney Asset Management bought a new position in OR Royalties in the second quarter valued at about $96,617,000. American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in OR Royalties by 8.7% in the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 579,388 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $14,896,000 after acquiring an additional 46,232 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc grew its position in OR Royalties by 4.6% in the second quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 184,545 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $4,734,000 after acquiring an additional 8,093 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.52% of the companys stock.

OR Royalties Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th will be paid a $0.055 dividend. This represents a $0.22 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 30th. OR Royaltiess payout ratio is 56.76%.

OR Royalties Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd acquires and manages precious metal and other royalties, streams, and other interests in Canada and internationally. It also owns options on offtake; royalty/stream financings; and exclusive rights to participate in future royalty/stream financings on various projects. The companys primary asset is a 3-5% net smelter return royalty on the Canadian Malartic complex located in Canada.

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Townsquare Capital LLC raised its stake in shares of Lennar Corporation (NYSE:LEN  Free Report) by 11.3% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 18,118 shares of the construction companys stock after acquiring an additional 1,842 shares during the period. Townsquare Capital LLCs holdings in Lennar were worth $2,080,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. NorthRock Partners LLC increased its position in shares of Lennar by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC now owns 6,509 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $747,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the last quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Lennar by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC now owns 8,841 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,015,000 after purchasing an additional 95 shares during the last quarter. Mather Group LLC. increased its position in shares of Lennar by 8.4% during the 1st quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 1,517 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $174,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares during the last quarter. Omnia Family Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of Lennar by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Omnia Family Wealth LLC now owns 6,417 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $737,000 after purchasing an additional 119 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Legacy Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Lennar by 4.8% in the 1st quarter. Legacy Advisors LLC now owns 2,628 shares of the construction companys stock worth $302,000 after acquiring an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 81.10% of the companys stock.

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Lennar Stock Up 3.4%

Shares of LEN opened at $124.61 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $32.28 billion, a PE ratio of 10.31, a P/E/G ratio of 5.12 and a beta of 1.29. The business has a fifty day moving average of $112.68 and a 200 day moving average of $114.17. Lennar Corporation has a 52-week low of $98.42 and a 52-week high of $193.80. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 3.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12.

Lennar Dividend Announcement

Lennar ( NYSE:LEN Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, June 16th. The construction company reported $1.90 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.94 by ($0.04). The company had revenue of $8.38 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.21 billion. Lennar had a return on equity of 12.73% and a net margin of 9.20%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.45 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Lennar Corporation will post 12.48 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 18th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd were paid a $0.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 3rd. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.6%. Lennars dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 16.54%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

LEN has been the subject of several analyst reports. JMP Securities reduced their target price on shares of Lennar from $150.00 to $130.00 and set a market outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, June 20th. Zelman & Associates lowered shares of Lennar from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. UBS Group reduced their target price on shares of Lennar from $164.00 to $146.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. Wedbush reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $130.00 price objective on shares of Lennar in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada cut their price objective on shares of Lennar from $122.00 to $98.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating, two have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Lennar has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $128.85.

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Lennar Company Profile

(Free Report)

Lennar Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a homebuilder primarily under the Lennar brand in the United States. It operates through Homebuilding East, Homebuilding Central, Homebuilding Texas, Homebuilding West, Financial Services, Multifamily, and Lennar Other segments. The companys homebuilding operations include the construction and sale of single-family attached and detached homes, as well as the purchase, development, and sale of residential land; and development, construction, and management of multifamily rental properties.

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Westpac Banking Corp decreased its stake in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 18.0% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 13,016 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 2,865 shares during the quarter. Westpac Banking Corps holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $1,727,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Hughes Financial Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the first quarter valued at $27,000. Abound Financial LLC bought a new position in Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. JCIC Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Abbott Laboratories in the 1st quarter worth about $32,000. Vision Financial Markets LLC purchased a new stake in Abbott Laboratories in the 1st quarter worth about $33,000. Finally, Redmont Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the first quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Institutional investors own 75.18% of the companys stock.

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Abbott Laboratories Price Performance

Shares of ABT stock opened at $130.92 on Wednesday. The stocks 50-day moving average is $131.60 and its 200 day moving average is $131.16. Abbott Laboratories has a 1-year low of $107.60 and a 1-year high of $141.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 1.82 and a quick ratio of 1.30. The company has a market cap of $227.85 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.41, a PEG ratio of 2.49 and a beta of 0.70.

Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.26 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $1.26. The business had revenue of $11.14 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.01 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 32.43% and a return on equity of 18.32%. The companys revenue was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.14 EPS. Research analysts predict that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, July 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.59 per share. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, July 15th. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is 29.57%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Abbott Laboratories news, CFO Philip P. Boudreau sold 5,550 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $134.55, for a total value of $746,752.50. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 51,003 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,862,453.65. This trade represents a 9.81% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 0.46% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have commented on ABT shares. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $147.00 to $142.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 18th. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $147.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $127.00 to $137.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Mizuho boosted their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $130.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. Finally, BTIG Research reduced their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $148.00 to $145.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 18th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $144.47.

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Abbott Laboratories Company Profile

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon.

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Arrowpoint Investment Partners Singapore Pte. Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Mueller Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MLI  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 5,697 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $434,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Mueller Industries in the 1st quarter valued at $54,072,000. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec boosted its holdings in shares of Mueller Industries by 169.1% in the 4th quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 1,058,830 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $84,029,000 after buying an additional 665,413 shares in the last quarter. SG Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Mueller Industries in the 4th quarter valued at $34,704,000. Northern Trust Corp boosted its holdings in shares of Mueller Industries by 28.3% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 1,535,625 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $121,867,000 after buying an additional 338,902 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP boosted its holdings in shares of Mueller Industries by 5.6% in the 4th quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 6,214,930 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $493,217,000 after buying an additional 327,479 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.50% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director John B. Hansen sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.97, for a total value of $91,970.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 92,664 shares in the company, valued at $8,522,308.08. This represents a 1.07% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 2.70% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Mueller Industries Trading Up 3.1%

Shares of Mueller Industries stock opened at $92.75 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $82.39 and a 200-day simple moving average of $78.97. Mueller Industries, Inc. has a 12-month low of $65.24 and a 12-month high of $96.81. The stock has a market cap of $10.27 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.72 and a beta of 1.02.

Mueller Industries (NYSE:MLI  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The industrial products company reported $1.96 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.62 by $0.34. Mueller Industries had a net margin of 17.48% and a return on equity of 24.47%. The firm had revenue of $1.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.12 billion. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 14.1% on a year-over-year basis.

Mueller Industries Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 19th. Investors of record on Friday, September 5th will be given a $0.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 5th. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.1%. Mueller Industriess dividend payout ratio is 15.87%.

Mueller Industries Profile

(Free Report)

Mueller Industries, Inc manufactures and sells copper, brass, aluminum, and plastic products in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, South Korea, the Middle East, China, and Mexico. It operates through three segments: Piping Systems, Industrial Metals, and Climate. The Piping Systems segment offers copper tubes, fittings, line sets, and pipe nipples.

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Prudential PLC lessened its position in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:EEM  Free Report) by 2.0% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 298,550 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 6,100 shares during the period. Prudential PLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF were worth $13,047,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 1,097.3% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 29,828,908 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,303,523,000 after buying an additional 32,819,730 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 45.2% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 10,786,595 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $471,374,000 after buying an additional 3,359,853 shares during the period. Lazard Asset Management LLC increased its stake in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 233.0% during the 4th quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 2,738,713 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $114,532,000 after buying an additional 1,916,377 shares during the period. TD Asset Management Inc increased its stake in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 13.0% during the 1st quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 4,999,304 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $218,470,000 after buying an additional 575,932 shares during the period. Finally, Barings LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the 1st quarter valued at about $24,806,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.39% of the companys stock.

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iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Trading Up 1.2%

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF stock opened at $49.90 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $18.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.46 and a beta of 0.74. The companys 50-day moving average price is $48.30 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $45.42. iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has a 52 week low of $38.19 and a 52 week high of $49.96.

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Profile

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Index Fund (the Fund), seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded equity securities in global emerging markets, as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (the Index).

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NFP Retirement Inc. cut its holdings in Aon plc (NYSE:AON  Free Report) by 3.1% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 11,473 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 365 shares during the period. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in AON were worth $4,579,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of AON by 1.3% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 19,778,451 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $7,893,382,000 after purchasing an additional 258,699 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its stake in shares of AON by 18.3% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,034,062 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,210,864,000 after purchasing an additional 469,238 shares during the period. Polen Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of AON by 318.1% in the 1st quarter. Polen Capital Management LLC now owns 3,007,719 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,200,350,000 after purchasing an additional 2,288,397 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in shares of AON by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 2,390,571 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $954,053,000 after purchasing an additional 61,350 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp grew its stake in shares of AON by 9.3% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 2,158,943 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $775,406,000 after purchasing an additional 183,442 shares during the period. 86.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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AON Stock Performance

Shares of AON stock opened at $364.17 on Wednesday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $357.60 and a two-hundred day moving average of $370.68. The stock has a market capitalization of $78.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.50, a PEG ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 0.83. Aon plc has a 52 week low of $323.73 and a 52 week high of $412.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93, a quick ratio of 1.52 and a current ratio of 1.52.

AON Announces Dividend

AON ( NYSE:AON Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Friday, July 25th. The financial services provider reported $3.49 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.40 by $0.09. AON had a net margin of 15.54% and a return on equity of 50.91%. The company had revenue of $4.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.16 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.93 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 10.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Aon plc will post 17.21 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Friday, August 1st will be given a $0.745 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 1st. This represents a $2.98 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.8%. AONs dividend payout ratio is currently 24.96%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

AON has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on AON from $414.00 to $409.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Wells Fargo & Company reissued an overweight rating and issued a $438.00 target price (up from $436.00) on shares of AON in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Barclays reissued an overweight rating and issued a $420.00 target price (up from $401.00) on shares of AON in a report on Thursday, July 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group raised AON from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $408.00 target price on the stock in a report on Tuesday, May 13th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised AON from a hold rating to a buy rating and upped their price objective for the stock from $400.00 to $426.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 30th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, AON presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $411.27.

Read Our Latest Report on AON

AON Company Profile

(Free Report)

Aon Plc engages in the provision of risk, health, and wealth solutions. It focuses on risk capital including claim management, reinsurance, risk analysis, management, retention, and transfer; and human capital involving analytics, health and benefits, investments, pensions and retirement, talent and rewards, and workplace wellbeing.

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S Bank Fund Management Ltd bought a new position in shares of Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 4,273 shares of the communications equipment providers stock, valued at approximately $1,871,000.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in MSI. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Motorola Solutions during the 1st quarter worth approximately $650,426,000. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its stake in shares of Motorola Solutions by 43,787.3% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,084,455 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $474,785,000 after buying an additional 1,081,984 shares during the period. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Motorola Solutions by 209.3% during the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 559,306 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $258,528,000 after buying an additional 378,462 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Motorola Solutions by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 21,501,114 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $9,413,403,000 after purchasing an additional 321,280 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. raised its stake in Motorola Solutions by 541.2% in the 1st quarter. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. now owns 331,910 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $145,312,000 after purchasing an additional 280,145 shares during the last quarter. 84.17% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts recently commented on MSI shares. UBS Group reissued a buy rating and issued a $510.00 price objective (up from $490.00) on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research note on Friday. Barclays reduced their price objective on Motorola Solutions from $511.00 to $509.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, May 28th. Wolfe Research started coverage on Motorola Solutions in a research note on Monday, July 7th. They issued a peer perform rating for the company. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on Motorola Solutions from $570.00 to $515.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 17th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $512.67.

Motorola Solutions Stock Up 2.4%

Shares of NYSE:MSI opened at $471.96 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.54, a current ratio of 1.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.86. The business has a fifty day moving average of $423.04 and a two-hundred day moving average of $427.46. The stock has a market cap of $78.63 billion, a P/E ratio of 38.00, a PEG ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 0.97. Motorola Solutions, Inc. has a 52-week low of $388.90 and a 52-week high of $507.82.

Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, August 7th. The communications equipment provider reported $3.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.36 by $0.21. The company had revenue of $2.77 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.74 billion. Motorola Solutions had a return on equity of 134.30% and a net margin of 19.08%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 5.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $3.24 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Motorola Solutions, Inc. will post 13.55 earnings per share for the current year.

Motorola Solutions Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 13th were issued a dividend of $1.09 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 13th. This represents a $4.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.9%. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio is currently 35.10%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Motorola Solutions

In other news, CAO Katherine A. Maher sold 1,073 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $418.68, for a total transaction of $449,243.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 804 shares in the company, valued at approximately $336,618.72. This represents a 57.17% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Corporate 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.

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Bright Financial Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 1,620 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $257,000.

Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Pacifica Partners Inc. raised its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 115.0% in the 1st quarter. Pacifica Partners Inc. now owns 215 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after purchasing an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Redmont Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Ball & Co Wealth Management Inc. purchased a new position in Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter worth approximately $36,000. Finally, Ameriflex Group Inc. purchased a new position in Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter worth approximately $36,000. 78.63% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $170.00 to $181.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $220.00 price target on the stock. Barclays dropped their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $225.00 to $220.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Finally, Citigroup reissued an overweight rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Tuesday, July 22nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $186.27.

Philip Morris International Trading Down 1.0%

Shares of PM opened at $168.58 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $262.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.48. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12-month low of $115.87 and a 12-month high of $186.69. The companys 50-day moving average price is $175.77 and its 200 day moving average price is $164.04.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate 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 negative return on equity of 120.86% and a net margin of 9.03%. Philip Morris Internationals revenue was up 7.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.59 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 27th were given a dividend of $1.35 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 27th. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.2%. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is currently 102.66%.

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(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.

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Callan Family Office LLC grew its stake in MSCI Inc (NYSE:MSCI  Free Report) by 25.8% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,880 shares of the technology companys stock after purchasing an additional 386 shares during the quarter. Callan Family Office LLCs holdings in MSCI were worth $1,063,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Bulltick Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of MSCI in the 1st quarter valued at $3,970,000. Public Sector Pension Investment Board lifted its stake in shares of MSCI by 2.1% in the 1st quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board now owns 20,802 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $11,764,000 after purchasing an additional 428 shares during the period. Meridian Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of MSCI by 12.9% in the 1st quarter. Meridian Wealth Management LLC now owns 762 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $431,000 after purchasing an additional 87 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of MSCI in the 1st quarter valued at $117,879,000. Finally, Aigen Investment Management LP acquired a new position in shares of MSCI in the 1st quarter valued at $501,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.97% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms have recently weighed in on MSCI. Evercore ISI cut their price target on MSCI from $673.00 to $631.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $675.00 price objective on shares of MSCI in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Raymond James Financial raised MSCI from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $650.00 price objective on the stock in a research note on Friday, July 25th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on MSCI from $650.00 to $680.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, July 21st. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on MSCI from $655.00 to $700.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, MSCI presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $654.73.

MSCI Trading Up 0.3%

MSCI stock opened at $550.80 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $562.08 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $562.06. The stock has a market cap of $42.61 billion, a PE ratio of 36.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.68 and a beta of 1.29. MSCI Inc has a 1 year low of $486.73 and a 1 year high of $642.45.

MSCI (NYSE:MSCI  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The technology company reported $4.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $4.12 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $772.68 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $763.06 million. MSCI had a negative return on equity of 143.13% and a net margin of 39.46%. The companys revenue was up 9.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $3.64 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that MSCI Inc will post 16.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

MSCI Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a $1.80 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. This represents a $7.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.3%. MSCIs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 47.68%.

Insider Buying and Selling at MSCI

In related news, CEO Henry A. Fernandez acquired 9,916 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 24th. The stock was bought at an average price of $544.70 per share, for a total transaction of $5,401,245.20. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,279,867 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $697,143,554.90. The trade was a 0.78% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In the last three months, insiders bought 12,400 shares of company stock valued at $6,731,599. 3.31% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

MSCI Company Profile

(Free Report)

MSCI Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides critical decision support tools and solutions for the investment community to manage investment processes worldwide. The Index segment provides indexes for use in various areas of the investment process, including indexed financial product, such as ETFs, mutual funds, annuities, futures, options, structured products, and over-the-counter derivatives; performance benchmarking; portfolio construction and rebalancing; and asset allocation, as well as licenses GICS and GICS Direct.

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E Fund Management Co. Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) by 8.4% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 29,139 shares of the technology companys stock after acquiring an additional 2,269 shares during the quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in International Business Machines were worth $7,246,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in International Business Machines by 448.0% during the first quarter. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,096 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $272,000 after buying an additional 896 shares during the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in International Business Machines by 6.5% in the first quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 28,212 shares of the technology companys stock worth $7,015,000 after purchasing an additional 1,732 shares during the last quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. lifted its holdings in shares of International Business Machines by 4.9% during the 1st quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. now owns 32,000 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $7,957,000 after buying an additional 1,500 shares during the period. S Bank Fund Management Ltd bought a new stake in shares of International Business Machines during the 1st quarter valued at $5,595,000. Finally, National Pension Service increased its stake in International Business Machines by 5.4% in the 1st quarter. National Pension Service now owns 2,243,542 shares of the technology companys stock worth $557,879,000 after buying an additional 114,397 shares in the last quarter. 58.96% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently issued reports on IBM. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on International Business Machines from $290.00 to $310.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 16th. Wedbush upped their price objective on International Business Machines from $300.00 to $325.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, June 20th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of International Business Machines from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, July 26th. UBS Group boosted their price objective on shares of International Business Machines from $195.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a sell rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated an outperform rating on shares of International Business Machines in a report on Saturday, May 10th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $268.75.

International Business Machines Price Performance

NYSE IBM opened at $234.41 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $274.96 and its 200 day moving average price is $258.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.00, a current ratio of 0.91 and a quick ratio of 0.87. The company has a market cap of $217.86 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.05, a PEG ratio of 3.65 and a beta of 0.69. International Business Machines Corporation has a 1 year low of $189.21 and a 1 year high of $296.16.

International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The technology company reported $2.80 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.65 by $0.15. The company had revenue of $16.98 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.58 billion. International Business Machines had a return on equity of 37.62% and a net margin of 9.11%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $2.43 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that International Business Machines Corporation will post 10.78 earnings per share for the current year.

About International Business Machines

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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Stone House Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm purchased 286 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $45,000.

Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Pacifica Partners Inc. grew its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 115.0% in the 1st quarter. Pacifica Partners Inc. now owns 215 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 115 shares during the period. Redmont Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter valued at about $35,000. Ball & Co Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. Finally, Inlight Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter valued at about $38,000. 78.63% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Philip Morris International Trading Down 1.0%

Shares of PM opened at $168.58 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $262.41 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.05, a PEG ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.48. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $175.77 and a 200 day moving average of $164.04. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12 month low of $115.87 and a 12 month high of $186.69.

Philip Morris International Announces Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results 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 negative return on equity of 120.86% and a net margin of 9.03%. Philip Morris Internationals revenue was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.59 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Investors of record on Friday, June 27th were issued a $1.35 dividend. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 27th. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is 102.66%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have recently commented on PM. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on Philip Morris International from $175.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and issued a $182.00 target price (up from $156.00) on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price target on Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Tuesday, July 22nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $186.27.

Read Our Latest Report on PM

Philip Morris International Profile

(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.

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Gulf International Bank UK Ltd lessened its position in shares of Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report) by 27.2% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 69,313 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 25,903 shares during the quarter. Gulf International Bank UK Ltds holdings in Morgan Stanley were worth $8,086,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of MS. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 6.9% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 117,769,345 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $13,740,149,000 after purchasing an additional 7,636,547 shares in the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 44.8% during the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 21,794,873 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,740,051,000 after purchasing an additional 6,744,333 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 21.2% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 17,056,916 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,990,030,000 after purchasing an additional 2,989,122 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 15.5% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 14,112,508 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,774,225,000 after purchasing an additional 1,890,245 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Northern Trust Corp increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 20.0% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 13,403,197 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,685,050,000 after purchasing an additional 2,233,589 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 84.19% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have issued reports on MS shares. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $121.00 to $136.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 10th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $120.00 to $145.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Erste Group Bank raised shares of Morgan Stanley from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, May 24th. Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $130.00 price objective (up from $125.00) on shares of Morgan Stanley in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised shares of Morgan Stanley from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and upped their price objective for the company from $127.00 to $160.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $138.25.

Morgan Stanley Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE MS opened at $147.26 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $138.92 and its 200 day moving average price is $128.57. Morgan Stanley has a 1 year low of $94.09 and a 1 year high of $148.23. The company has a market capitalization of $235.08 billion, a PE ratio of 16.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.80 and a beta of 1.32. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a current ratio of 0.78.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The financial services provider reported $2.13 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by $0.15. The firm had revenue of $16.79 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.15 billion. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 13.06% and a return on equity of 15.20%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.82 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 earnings per share for the current year.

Morgan Stanley Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 31st will be issued a dividend of $1.00 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, July 31st. This is a positive change from Morgan Stanleys previous quarterly dividend of $0.93. This represents a $4.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.7%. Morgan Stanleys payout ratio is 45.30%.

Morgan Stanley declared that its board has initiated a stock buyback plan on Tuesday, July 1st that authorizes the company to buyback $20.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the financial services provider to purchase up to 8.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are usually an indication that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

Insider Buying and Selling at Morgan Stanley

In other Morgan Stanley news, insider Daniel A. Simkowitz sold 29,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $141.13, for a total transaction of $4,092,770.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 399,105 shares of the companys stock, valued at $56,325,688.65. This trade represents a 6.77% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Andrew M. Saperstein sold 43,566 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $140.97, for a total transaction of $6,141,499.02. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 294,250 shares in the company, valued at approximately $41,480,422.50. The trade was a 12.90% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 148,149 shares of company stock valued at $20,841,628. Insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock.

About Morgan Stanley

(Free Report)

Morgan Stanley, a financial holding company, provides various financial products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It operates through Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management segments.

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Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL  Free Report) by 37.1% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,855 shares of the enterprise software providers stock after purchasing an additional 502 shares during the quarter. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Oracle were worth $259,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Oracle during the 1st quarter valued at about $732,692,000. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its stake in shares of Oracle by 15,012.3% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 4,755,096 shares of the enterprise software providers stock valued at $664,810,000 after buying an additional 4,723,631 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Oracle by 2.2% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 160,925,413 shares of the enterprise software providers stock valued at $22,498,982,000 after buying an additional 3,513,464 shares during the period. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC boosted its stake in shares of Oracle by 20.5% in the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 13,825,360 shares of the enterprise software providers stock valued at $2,303,858,000 after buying an additional 2,350,448 shares during the period. Finally, Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of Oracle by 268.4% in the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 3,077,947 shares of the enterprise software providers stock valued at $512,909,000 after buying an additional 2,242,520 shares during the period. 42.44% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Oracle Stock Performance

Shares of Oracle stock opened at $253.54 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $712.15 billion, a PE ratio of 58.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.77 and a beta of 1.43. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $226.06 and a 200-day simple moving average of $178.76. The company has a quick ratio of 0.75, a current ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.07. Oracle Corporation has a 12 month low of $118.86 and a 12 month high of $260.87.

Oracle Dividend Announcement

Oracle ( NYSE:ORCL Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, June 11th. The enterprise software provider reported $1.70 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.64 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $15.90 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $15.58 billion. Oracle had a return on equity of 87.34% and a net margin of 21.68%. The businesss revenue was up 11.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.63 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Oracle Corporation will post 5 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 24th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 10th were paid a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 10th. Oracles dividend payout ratio is currently 46.08%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Oracle news, EVP Maria Smith sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $232.99, for a total transaction of $2,329,900.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 40,807 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,507,622.93. This represents a 19.68% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Michael D. Sicilia sold 15,880 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $254.48, for a total value of $4,041,142.40. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 99,212 shares in the company, valued at approximately $25,247,469.76. This represents a 13.80% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 444,183 shares of company stock worth $86,521,198. Insiders own 42.20% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have weighed in on ORCL shares. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Oracle in a research note on Wednesday, June 18th. DA Davidson lifted their target price on Oracle from $140.00 to $170.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, June 12th. Stifel Nicolaus upgraded Oracle from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price target for the company from $180.00 to $250.00 in a research note on Monday, June 30th. Barclays restated an overweight rating and issued a $221.00 price target (up from $202.00) on shares of Oracle in a research note on Friday, June 13th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating and issued a $240.00 price target (up from $200.00) on shares of Oracle in a research note on Thursday, June 12th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-three have given a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $222.75.

Read Our Latest Research Report on ORCL

Oracle Profile

(Free Report)

Oracle Corporation offers products and services that address enterprise information technology environments worldwide. Its Oracle cloud software as a service offering include various cloud software applications, including Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP), Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise performance management, Oracle Fusion cloud supply chain and manufacturing management, Oracle Fusion cloud human capital management, Oracle Cerner healthcare, Oracle Advertising, and NetSuite applications suite, as well as Oracle Fusion Sales, Service, and Marketing.

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National Pension Service raised its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 5.0% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 4,903,014 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 234,190 shares during the period. National Pension Services holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $299,035,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Klingman & Associates LLC bought a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb during the first quarter valued at about $203,000. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. bought a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb during the first quarter valued at about $36,000. LGT Group Foundation grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 2.4% during the first quarter. LGT Group Foundation now owns 30,592 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,866,000 after purchasing an additional 718 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 10.4% during the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 3,156,972 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $192,341,000 after purchasing an additional 296,321 shares during the period. Finally, Prudential PLC boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 10.3% in the first quarter. Prudential PLC now owns 289,748 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $17,672,000 after acquiring an additional 26,981 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms have recently weighed in on BMY. Daiwa Capital Markets lowered Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 price objective for the company. in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Daiwa America lowered Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Piper Sandler began coverage on Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $65.00 price objective for the company. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price objective on Bristol Myers Squibb from $70.00 to $68.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fifteen have assigned a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $56.38.

Bristol Myers Squibb Trading Up 1.2%

Shares of NYSE BMY opened at $46.49 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.21. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $47.23 and its 200-day moving average price is $51.68. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a fifty-two week low of $42.96 and a fifty-two week high of $63.33. The company has a market cap of $94.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.75, a PEG ratio of 2.35 and a beta of 0.36.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.46 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.07 by $0.39. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 80.04% and a net margin of 10.58%. The firm had revenue of $12.27 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.32 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.07 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 1st. Investors of record on Thursday, July 3rd were paid a $0.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, July 3rd. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.3%. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is 100.00%.

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.

Further Reading

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Archbishop Dermot Farrell is encouraging members of the public across Ireland to confront and defeat" those whose actions have contributed to the fear now being experienced in the Indian community in Dublin and elsewhere.

We are all familiar with the vital presence of Indian professionals in our healthcare system, without whom many healthcare needs simply could not be met. Others apply their skills in other important sectors of the economy and also contribute to funding public services through their taxes," he said in a strongly-worded statement.

In recent weeks, a man in Tallaght, Dublin was assaulted, a girl (6) was assaulted in Waterford, and two men ganged up on a taxi driver in Dublin - all of the victims were of Indian descent.

READ MORE: 'Biosecurity alert' in Ireland following confirmed sighting of threatening Asian Hornet

The Archbishop praised the Indian community in Ireland for enriching our society.

The diversity of Indian culture and traditions add to the vitality of life in Dublin. In particular, many Indian families are playing an increasingly prominent role in the parishes and school communities of the Archdiocese of Dublin.

Farrell went on to highlight Indian peoples involvement in the Catholic Church.

Indian priests, religious and lay volunteers are an increasingly important presence in the pastoral life of the church in Dublin. That gives the lie to the vile and blasphemous claims of some who spread the poison of racial hatred on social media, and otherwise that their views are somehow protecting Christianity.

Shortly after Farrells statement, the postponement of India Day in Ireland was announced by the Chairman of the Ireland India council following the violent attacks on members of the community.
A formal appeal over the leniency of the sentences of those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has been lodged, the Tanaiste has said.

Pte Rooney, 24, from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon was ambushed and fired upon on December 14, 2022.

The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in a stronghold of Hezbollah.

Pte Rooney was from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces.

The main person convicted for his killing is still at large and the Irish Government has described some of the sentences imposed on others over the matter as unduly lenient.

On Tuesday, Tanaiste Simon Harris said prosecutors in Lebanon have formally lodged an appeal against the sentences handed down to those who were indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney and the attacks on Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan and Trooper Nathan Bryan in the same incident.

Mr Harris wrote to the Lebanese Government following last months trial to express the disappointment of the Irish Government and, in particular, of the Rooney family, at the leniency of the sentences handed down.

I have been in discussions with the Lebanese Government today. They have now appealed the leniency of the sentences for those who murdered Private Sean Rooney and injured his colleagues. This is a welcome development. I spoke with Natasha Rooney on this today. pic.twitter.com/F5mDmWMDRs  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) August 12, 2025

He met Pte Rooneys family last week after his mother criticised Mr Harriss engagement with them over the matter.

Mr Harris, who is also Defence and Foreign Affairs Minister, had committed to holding urgent talks with the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers in order to press for an appeal.

Those talks took place on Tuesday.

Mr Harris said he then spoke to Pte Rooneys mother, Natasha McCloskey, and informed her that the Lebanese Government has appointed a new military chief prosecutor to take over the case.

He also said an appeal against the sentences has this afternoon been formally lodged with the military Cassation Court, while the Lebanese authorities have committed to taking urgent steps to ensure the individual convicted of the murder of Private Rooney is taken into custody.

Mr Harris said: I very much welcome the confirmation today from the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers that an appeal has been formally lodged against the sentences handed down in the case of the death of Private Sean Rooney and the injuries of his colleagues.

He added: In my calls with my Lebanese counterparts, I made it clear that the sentences handed down in this case are simply not acceptable and are very disappointing.

They have caused great upset and insult to the Rooney family and everything must be done to ensure justice is served for Sean and his colleagues who were injured.
A motion to ban car clamping in Mayo has been backed by the Castlebar municipal council recently and Newstalk Breakfast shines a light on whether or not the rest of Ireland should follow in their footsteps.

The clamping byelaw was proposed and passed by Castlebar municipal council at the beginning of August, according to Newstalk breakfast.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne said: "[it's] generating more money than some of the shops in the town."

Keith Gavin, director with the Irish Parking Association joined Shane Coleman on Newstalk Breakfast to explain why he feels clamping is not the solution.

We have actively campaigned for years with successive transport ministers to be given the option to issue fines as an alternative to clamping, he said on Newstalk Breakfast.

Keith believes that Ireland is very much an outlier to have clamping as the primary method of enforcement of parking.

READ NEXT: 'Despicable' - President Michael D Higgins slams recent attacks on Indian community in Ireland

Keith supports the initiative in Castlebar but he told Newstalk that the council are probably overreaching to try and introduce byelaws for what will happen [anyway] on private land.

Issuing fines as an alternative also brings its own problems, as it has been noted that many people could avoid paying these fines and therefore evade the law, according to Newstalk.

Keith says that there are obstacles that stand in the way of enforcing such a measure: The main impediment to parking operators issuing fines is that they cannot access the National Vehicle Driving file, so they cant pursue the vehicle owner.

I did previously suggest that if a person amasses a certain amount of fines, that it could be linked to penalty points."

Keith says that there have been delays in getting any action implemented.

We keep hitting a stone wall, Data protection is put forward as the excuse - but its allowed for toll operators, so I dont understand why its not allowed for parking operators.

"There needs to be an alternative.

The only method they [parking operators] have in enforcing the rules on private property is through clamping.

According to a report by Mayo Live, clamping became a very serious issue in Castlebar. One incident in particular was highlighted where a clamper clamped the wrong car.
Probably not . . . But the drama and political chatter will ramp up this week amid threats to suspend service.

Here's a worthwhile update . . .

"The deadline for the city of Kansas City and the KCATA to reach a funding agreement is rapidly approaching. If not finalized by Friday, the KCATA will need to use capital reserve funds or potentially suspend service."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

No deal yet in Kansas City, KCATA transit funding negotiations Negotiations between Kansas City, Missouri, leaders and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority are moving forward, but no deal has been reached.

'I am certain there will be a deal': Mayor Lucas meets with KCATA reps as contract deadline looms Kansas City bus riders are concerned as a critical funding deadline for public transportation comes Friday.

Developing . . .
Lots to consider for our late night guests this evening and we share more than a few local news stories related to property crime, gunfire, police action and, of course, community outreach.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

South Plaza residents report series of car break-ins in recent weeks Neighbors told FOX4 that nearly a dozen cars were broken into overnight in the Plaza area, near 50th and Baltimore in Kansas City, Missouri.

Man fighting for his life after overnight shooting in Kansas City Kansas City Police Department investigating after man shot, suffers life-threatening injuries in overnight shooting in south Kansas City

Probation ordered for woman accused in KCK bank robbery A woman who was facing charges following a bank robbery at US Bank in January in Kansas City, Kansas, has been given probation.

Can ICE agents pull you over? Jailing of KC area immigrant raises question Do ICE officers have the authority to make traffic stops? The answer, immigration attorneys and advocates say, is both simple. . . and not.

Family of man shot, killed by Kansas City, Kansas, police speaks out The deadly incident happened near North 82nd Terrace and State Avenue, where 24-year-old Paul Beasley Jr. was fatally shot by officers.

Charges filed against man accused of stabbing woman, stealing her groceries A Kansas City man has been accused of stabbing a woman at a bus stop before stealing her groceries.

Olathe man pleads guilty in connection with deadly shooting of 21-year-old An Olathe, Kansas, man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter after a 21-year-old man was shot to death.

South Kansas City Alliance meeting focuses on plans for temporary detention facility ahead of FIFA World Cup The South Kansas City Alliance heard about plans Monday night for a temporary detention facility to address immediate needs while a permanent rehabilitation and detention center is being built

Lindsey Doolittle's 'Faces After Suicide' transforms silence into dialogue with upcoming exhibition After losing her late husband to suicide, Lindsey Doolittle seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding suicide with Faces After Suicide.

Shawnee police show appreciation for vets who helped care for K-9 Dagger after stabbing Because of their work, Dagger is healing from the stabbing. He is "on track to return to full duty," a spokesperson said.

Developing . . .
A longstanding Kansas City debate was settled today by the free market . . .

Like it or not, subsidized grocery stores don't seem to work.

One more round-up just for context . . .

The nonprofit Community Builders of Kansas City owns the location. The CBKC is the largest urban core developer in Kansas City, Missouri, with $80 million in assets under its management.



The City of Kansas City, Missouri, is the landlord, with ownership of the Linwood Shopping Center.



People arrived at the store throughout Tuesday with mixed emotions after realizing it was shut down.



The store was barely hanging on for weeks, struggling to keep coolers and shelves stocked.



Over the years, it struggled with theft and crime in the area. The shopping center had been through three security contracts in 18 months.

And so, all of this begs the question . . .

WHO SHOULD KANSAS CITY BLAME FOR THE PRICEY SHUT DOWN?!?

We have a suggestions . . .

- Clearly, without much oversight, Mayor & Council approved more than $800K for the place earlier this year and taxpayers won't be able to reclaim A LOT of that money.

- Shoplifters contributed to the demise of the store especially the naked lady who stole steaks in the middle of the day.

- And our more thoughtful readers look at the big picture and believe that socialism is responsible for the downfall.

Still . . . In the aftermath of today's shut down, we think reader insight into the blame game will be more interesting . . .

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

KSHB: Neighbors saw closure of Kansas City Sun Fresh coming, hope for replacement

KC Star: Where can residents on KCs East Side go for groceries after Sun Fresh closing?

Developing . . .
These are very serious accusations . . . So forgive us if we think two dudes arguing at fairgrounds seems kinda "fancy" despite the nasty context . . . Check-it:

Jason Probst, who Kelly recently appointed to the fair board, allegedly profanely assailed state Rep. Kyler Sweely at the Boots and Bling fair fundraiser at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.



Sweely, who defeated Probst in the House District 102 election in November, tells the Heartlander he was speaking with a local elected official and her husband when Probst approached them.



And he just said, Kyler, I didnt recognize you without the c*ck in your mouth, Sweely says.



We kind of just looked at each other and we all looked at him and then he kind of kept going on about how I just apparently suck c*ck and suck d*ck and he doesnt recognize me without the c*ck in my mouth and all of this  just completely unprovoked.



Sweely, who is, in fact, heterosexual, is nonetheless sad for the homosexual community at Probsts alleged homophobic outburst.



I think its unfortunate that somebody that says they support that group and protects that group would make comments like this, he tells The Heartlander. I think its unfortunate for them. And I think it would be unfortunate for the Kelly administration to continue to say that they support these groups [when] they have administration appointees that talk like this in public and act like this in public.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
Azerbaijan jacks up household end-user consumption expenditures

In the first quarter of 2025, household spending in Azerbaijan reached 58.2 percent of GDP, up 2.7 percentage points from last year. Public sector consumption rose to 15 percent, increasing by 1.2 percentage points. In the first half of the year, goods and services sold to the population totaled 37.7 billion manat ($22.2 billion), up 5.1 percent.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Kairat Sarybay has addressed a congratulatory letter to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports.

"Please accept my sincere congratulations on the signing of the historic Joint Declaration with Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, as a witness, on the outcomes of Your Excellencies' meeting in Washington, D.C., on 8 August 2025.

Your Excellency's decisive and lawful actionsnow recorded in modern historyhave brought about the resolution of yet another protracted conflict in Asia.

This remarkable achievement by Azerbaijan has further demonstrated the country's steadfast commitment to promoting regional and global peace and security.

Under Your Excellency's strategic leadership, Azerbaijan's efforts have made an immense contribution to sustainable connectivity by unlocking the transit and transport potential of the vast CICA region, fostering intercultural dialogue, addressing the challenges of climate change, and strengthening CICA's capacity for mediation, conflict resolution, and post-conflict rehabilitation," the letter reads.

The Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) is an intergovernmental forum aimed at fostering collaboration to promote peace, security, and stability in Asia. This forum acknowledges the intrinsic connection between peace, security, and stability in Asia and globally. The central concept of the forum emphasizes the primacy of the indivisibility of security, collaborative initiatives, and mutually advantageous interactions between small and major states.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. President of Albania Bajram Begaj sent a congratulatory letter to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

On behalf of the people of Albania and in my own name, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the successful conclusion of a peace declaration between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia.

This agreement stands as a historic milestone, opening the way for a new era of cooperation and mutual understanding between our two nations. We deeply value the steadfast commitment and determination demonstrated by you, as well as by the United States of America.

I wish to take this opportunity to reaffirm that Albania attaches great importance to its friendship with Azerbaijan and to our steadily growing partnership, founded on mutual respect and shared interests.

I am confident that, under your esteemed leadership, the bonds between our two countries will continue to flourish, and that Azerbaijan's standing and contribution in the international arena will be further enhanced.

With best wishes for the continued success of the peace process and for the prosperity of the friendly people of Azerbaijan, please accept Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration," the letter reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Council of States (the upper house of the Swiss parliament) hasn't supported the anti-Azerbaijani initiative of the European Parliament, Trend reports.

The committee unanimously decided not to support the resolution on the so-called 'annexation' of Karabakh and the release of Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan.

"The committee believes that making demands on Azerbaijan is not within the competence of the Federal Assembly and considers the initiative to be unilateral," the statement reads.

In addition, the committee also rejected the proposal to introduce a corresponding amendment, voting five to four with three abstentions. The amendment included a call for the release of Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan and the protection of the so-called 'Armenian cultural heritage' in Karabakh.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) delegation has visited the Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Khankendi, who are provided with comprehensive attention and care from the state, a source in ARCS told Trend.

The conditions of the locals were thoroughly familiarized to the delegation.

To note, a delegation led by Executive Secretary of ARCS Jeyhun Mirzayev, Coordinator of the Karabakh Regional Center of the ARCS Afag Huseynzade, and Head of the Supply Sector Samir Vasilkin has visited Khankendi city with the main goal to restore the organization's activities.

During the visit, the ARCS delegation met with Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan in Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts Elchin Yusubov and Executive Director Telman Karimli.

The meeting, which was held with mutual understanding and fruitful discussions, extensively discussed the establishment of the current conditions for the Society's activities in Khankendi.

The ARCS delegation also met with Rector of Garabagh University Shahin Bayramov in Khankendi.

The meeting discussed the establishment of the society's first organization at Khankendi University and the establishment of the current conditions for its activities.

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Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. A delegation headed by the First Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of AzerbaijanChief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyevdeparted for Islamabad at the invitation of the Chief of the Army Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense told Trend.

At the welcoming ceremony, Colonel General Karim Valiyev and Field Marshal Asim Munir passed along the guard of honor in accordance with the protocol.

The national anthems of both countries were performed.

At the end of the ceremony, a wreath was laid in front of the monument to the martyrs.

The visit involves a broad exchange of views on the current state and progress of cooperation between the Defense Ministries of Azerbaijan and Pakistan and issues of common interest.

At the end of the meeting, Colonel General Valiyev congratulated Field Marshal Asim Munir and the personnel of the Pakistan Army on the occasion of Pakistans Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq (Battle of Truth) on behalf of the leadership of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense.

Afterwards, Field Marshal Asim Munir was presented with the medal "For Services in the Field of Military Cooperation" issued by the relevant order of the Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan.

The Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army will participate in the military parade organized for the first time in connection with Pakistans Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq (Battle of Truth) in Islamabad.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Agreement has been reached to strengthen cooperation between parliaments of Azerbaijan and Kenya, the Azerbaijani embassy told Trend.

The decision was made during the visit of Kenyan Senate members Stewart Madzayo, Tabitha Mutinda, and Hamida Kibwana, who are expected to join the friendship group between the Parliament of Azerbaijan and the Senate of Kenya, to the embassy.

Ambassador Sultan Hajiyev informed the senators about the path of development based on the political course of the great leader Heydar Aliyev, the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the liberated territories, Azerbaijans activities during its chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement, the importance of parliamentary diplomacy, the initiatives put forward within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate ChangeCOP29, as well as plans for the preparation of the 13th session of the World Urban ForumWUF13.

During the meeting, the historic significance of the Joint Declaration signed last week in Washington by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of the US Donald Trump, and Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan was deliberateda declaration regarded as crucial for fostering peace and advancing development not only bilaterally between Azerbaijan and Armenia but also within the broader regional context.

In conclusion, both sides expressed hope that the cooperation to be established between the Parliament of Azerbaijan and the Senate of Kenya will contribute to the rapidly developing relations between the two countries.

To recall, following the official visit of Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov to Kenya in June this year, an agreement was initially reached to further strengthen cooperation between the parliaments of the two countries. This issue was discussed at meetings with Speaker of the Kenyan National Assembly Moses Wetangula and Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Ramil Aliyev, founder of the Norwegian Azerbaijani Youth Organization (NAYO), has addressed a statement to the Norwegian government regarding the current situation in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora said, Trend reports.

As to the committee, the statement highlighted his visits to Shusha, Khankendi, and Lachin, where he observed the extensive restoration and reconstruction efforts being conducted.

"He drew attention to the fact that the work carried out in those regions, which were destroyed as a result of the long-standing Armenian occupation and subjected to serious ecological terrorism, is a clear example of Azerbaijan's commitment to peace, sustainable development, and regional stability.

The statement called on the Norwegian government and the international community to take these realities into account and to demonstrate a balanced and fair position in discussions and decision-making processes related to Azerbaijan," the committee noted.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The first part of the next cargo of electrical equipment intended for humanitarian aid to Ukraine by the Republic of Azerbaijan was dispatched today from the territory of the Sumgayit Technology Park, Trend reports.

The aid dispatch is ensured in accordance with the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated August 11, 2025.

The humanitarian cargo includes a total of about 90,000 meters of electrical cables and wires, as well as 25 generators and seven sets of transformers. The first part of this equipment, which was sent to support the restoration of a stable electricity supply to the regions affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine, was sent in a convoy of 10 trucks. The next part of the aid, which was organized based on the requests of the Ukrainian side and has a total value of $2 million, is planned to be sent in the coming days.

To note, Azerbaijan has previously sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine related to electricity supply. Due to the current war situation, the total value of our country's humanitarian support to Ukraine, including assistance for recovery and reconstruction, has already exceeded $44 million.

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SUMGAYIT, Azerbaijan, August 13. Ukraine has expressed deep gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and the Government of Azerbaijan for providing vital and much-needed assistance, Ukraines Ambassador to Azerbaijan Yuriy Husyev said, Trend reports.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists about the shipment of humanitarian aid from Azerbaijan to Ukraine.

The ambassador highlighted that the electrical equipment included in the aid will be used to restore Ukraines entire power system:

We particularly appreciate that this is the second package of electrical equipment assistance weve received this year. We value Azerbaijans support highly, Husyev said.

He added, We have always supported Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty. We are deeply grateful for Azerbaijans support during some of the darkest and most challenging moments in our history.

The first part of the new shipment, consisting of electrical equipment intended as humanitarian aid from Azerbaijan, was sent today from the Sumgayit Technologies Park.

The shipment is being organized by Azerbaijans Ministry of Energy under the order of President Ilham Aliyev dated August 11, 2025.

The humanitarian cargo includes nearly 90,000 meters of electrical cables and wires, 25 generators, and 7 transformer sets. The first batch, sent in a convoy of 10 trucks, is aimed at restoring reliable electricity supply to regions of Ukraine affected by the ongoing war. Following requests from Ukraine, the next part of the aid, valued at $2 million, is scheduled to be dispatched in the coming days.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. A delegation led by Executive Secretary of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) Jeyhun Mirzayev, Coordinator of the Karabakh Regional Center of the ARCS Afag Huseynzade, and Head of the Supply Sector Samir Vasilkin have visited Khankendi city with the main goal to restore the organization's activities, a source in the society told Trend.

During the visit, the ARCS delegation met with Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan in Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts Elchin Yusubov and Executive Director Telman Karimli.

The meeting, which was held with mutual understanding and fruitful discussions, extensively discussed the establishment of the current conditions for the Society's activities in Khankendi.

During the visit, the ARCS delegation also met with Rector of Garabagh University Shahin Bayramov in Khankendi.

The meeting discussed the establishment of the society's first organization at Khankendi University and the establishment of the current conditions for its activities.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The 5th Turkic World Orthopedics and Traumatology Congress is set to take place in the jewel of Azerbaijan's Karabakh, Shusha city, from October 8 through 12, Trend reports.

The event will be held with the organizational support of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Health and the Turkish Bone and Joint Society.

Leading specialists from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Greece, and Bosnia and Herzegovina will take part in the congress.

The scientific program includes the exchange of experience in diagnostics and surgery and discussion of modern treatment methods, as well as holding thematic scientific sessions on current issues of orthopedics and traumatology.

The tale of the congress kicked off in 2018 in Baku. In the years that followed, it hit the ground running in Kazakhstan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and also in Kyrgyzstan.

Detailed information about the 5th Turkic World Orthopedics and Traumatology Congress is available on the official website: www.turkdunyasiortopedi.org.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs has initiated administrative and disciplinary procedures following the publication of a controversial post on the official social media account of the Embassy of Greece in Luxembourg on August 12, 2025, Trend reports.

According to Ministry Spokesperson Lana Zochiou, the measures aim to clarify the circumstances under which the post was published and to ensure accountability.

She stressed that the content of the post does not reflect Greeces official position.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konakovic, received in a courtesy visit the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Mr. Sherif Fathi Ali Attia, Trend reports citing the Bosnian Foreign Ministry.

Minister Konakovic expressed satisfaction with the political relations between the two countries and thanked the Egyptian Minister for the assistance and support Egypt has provided to Bosnia and Herzegovina over the past decades. He also expressed gratitude for Egypts vote on the resolution International Day of Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide 1995 at the United Nations General Assembly on May 23, 2024.

Konakovic emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina seeks to continue and develop relations with friendly Egypt, particularly in the economic sphere. The ministers welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of tourism between the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt. They expressed hope that the Memorandum will serve as a foundation for further development and strengthening of tourism cooperation between the two countries, enhancing cultural exchange and contributing to the deepening of friendly relations.

Minister Konakovic invited tourists and investors from Egypt to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina. He highlighted that the recent opening of accession negotiations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union will create new opportunities for Egyptian investments in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country that is liberal, open to foreign investments, and rich in natural resources and potentials attractive to international investors. He noted opportunities in telecommunications and transport systems, infrastructure, energy facilities, as well as in the food, metal, wood, and defense industries.

The ministers welcomed the presence of the airline AirCairo, which operates four direct flights per week to Bosnia and Herzegovina during the tourist season, and expressed hope that the number of direct flights will increase alongside visa facilitation for citizens of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

The ministers also exchanged views on the current situation in the Middle East, Egypt, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Minister Konakovic expressed full support for the authorities of the Arab Republic of Egypt in their fight against terrorism, hoping for complete internal stabilization of the country, which would positively impact regional security.

At the conclusion of the talks, Minister Attia reaffirmed Egypts clear support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, its constitutional order, and strongly condemned any form of secessionist rhetoric. He stated that Egypt sees Bosnia and Herzegovina as a future EU member with which it aims to build strong cooperation.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. In Bulgaria, two AS-532 AL Cougar helicopters with crews from the Air Force (AF) are assisting firefighters, volunteers, and forestry officials today in combating the large forest fire in the Pirin Mountains, Trend reports.

The two aircraft took off a few minutes after 3:00 p.m. from the 24th Air Base in Krumovo and will drop water on the affected areas. Refueling of the helicopters will be provided in the Sandanski area using a tanker from the 16th Air Base.

The involvement of military personnel and equipment from the Air Force follows a request from the General Directorate Fire Safety and Civil Protection.

Since early this morning, servicemen from the Land Forces have been participating in firefighting activities in the Pirin Mountains and the Sungurlare municipality area.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. The Estonian Center for International Development (ESTDEV) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a cooperation agreement in Tokyo to construct apartment buildings for internally displaced people in Ukraines Zhytomyr region, Trend reports.

Under the agreement, Japan will join Estonias apartment construction project by providing facade materials for a new residential building in the town of Brusyliv.

The materials will be supplied by NICHIHA Corporation, one of Japans leading producers of fiber cement facade panels. This initiative is part of JICAs program to engage Japans private sector in Ukraines reconstruction.

The partnership was announced at a high-level Ukraine Business Forum in Tokyo, attended by Japans Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akiyoshi Kato, JICA Vice President Shohei Hara, JETRO Director General Norihiko Ishiguro, Ukraines Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka, and First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska. Estonia was represented by Oliver Ait, the Embassys Business and Investment Adviser in Tokyo.

JICA is working with 12 Japanese companies, including NICHIHA, to expand private sector participation in Ukraines recovery. We are grateful to the Estonian government and ESTDEV for their efforts in delivering our first joint project. We look forward to continuing to explore future cooperation opportunities in support of Ukraine, said Kei Toyama, Director General for the Middle East and Europe at JICA.

Oliver Ait emphasized that bilateral relations between Estonia and Japan have developed into a dynamic partnership covering business, innovation, and security.

As both countries are long-term supporters of Ukraine, I am pleased to see ESTDEV, JICA, and private sector partners working together on reconstruction. The Estonian Embassy in Tokyo will continue to support and expand this cooperation, he said.

The joint project will deliver an 18-apartment modular wooden building in Brusyliv, meeting EU energy efficiency standards, following passive house principles, and utilizing solar power. ESTDEV will oversee the design, procurement, production, installation, and project management.

Following a recent tender, ESTDEV signed a 1.99 million euros contract with Estonias largest modular housing producer, Harmet OU, which will manufacture, transport, and install the modules in Ukraine. The building, including an integrated bomb shelter, is expected to be completed by spring 2026.

Millions of Ukrainians have lost their homes and need not just temporary shelter but a permanent place to rebuild their lives. Estonia has world-class expertise in modular wooden housing, one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to create quality homes. That is what we are offering Ukraine, said Margus Gering, ESTDEVs Director for Ukraine Reconstruction and Head of the European Region.

"We are grateful to JICA for their trust. Launching this first joint project offers both countries private sectors the opportunity to contribute to Ukraines recovery. Together with Japans NICHIHA and Estonias Harmet, we are not only building homes but also strengthening local construction capacity, which is critical for the countrys rebuilding. I believe the Brusyliv project marks the beginning of a long-term EstoniaJapan partnership in Ukraine," he added.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), there are approximately 3.7 million internally displaced people in Ukraine.

Zhytomyr region, where Estonia has concentrated much of its reconstruction work, received about 126,000 displaced persons during the early months of the war, with 56,000 remaining. Housing shortages remain one of the areas biggest challenges, making Estonias construction projects critical to addressing the crisis.

In addition to the Brusyliv development, ESTDEV is also renovating an apartment building for displaced people in the town of Ovruch in western Ukraine.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Lithuania and the United States are preparing a long-term development plan for military infrastructure and training areas at the Pabrade Training Ground, setting the framework for expansion, planning, design, and construction over the next 20 years. The strategic plan aims to align the vision and requirements of Lithuania, NATO, and the United States for future infrastructure projects, Trend reports.

This autumn, we will open new accommodation, administrative, dining, and storage facilities for U.S. troops at the General Silvestras Zukauskas Training Area in Pabrade. Pabrade will continue to grow according to a long-term plan we are preparing for the decades ahead. All infrastructure is being developed in coordination with U.S. and Lithuanian military needs, ensuring the best possible conditions for our allies so they feel at home in Lithuania, said Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Dovile Sakaliene.

The long-term plan will provide a systematic approach to military infrastructure expansion, addressing the operational requirements of U.S., Lithuanian, and other NATO allied forces, while improving living and training conditions.

The United States has consistently supported the development of Lithuanias defense capabilities, deploying heavy battalions for a continuous presence in the country since 2019. In 2022, the U.S. battalion in Lithuania was reinforced with artillery units. The American military presence remains a critical deterrent and a key security guarantee in the Baltic region.

Lithuanias investment in infrastructure for U.S. troops now exceeds $200 million.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. On Wednesday, August 13, Latvian Minister of Transport Atis Svinka will hit the road to Estonia for a working visit, where hell be rolling up his sleeves to chat about cooperation in the transport sector with his Estonian counterparts, Trend reports.

The agenda will include port development, ferry services, and updates on the implementation of the Rail Baltica project.

During the visit, Minister Svinka will meet with Margus Vihman, Member of the Management Board of the Port of Tallinn, to discuss future collaboration in port operations, including potential projects in manufacturing, digitalization, renewable energy development, and tourism.

The talks will also cover the development prospects of the TEN-T core networks North Sea-Baltic Sea corridor and the Baltic Sea-Black Sea-Aegean Sea corridor, aimed at ensuring efficient cargo and passenger transport links.

Svinka is set to engage in discussions with Estonian Minister of Infrastructure Kuldar Leis, concentrating on pivotal financing considerations for the Rail Baltica initiative and strategizing a cohesive stance in anticipation of the forthcoming EU multiannual budget deliberations.



Additional subjects necessitating meticulous collaboration among the trio of Baltic States will be explored, encompassing the enhancement of the collaborative enterprise RB Rail AS to synchronize with a revised allocation of duties and a collective acquisition strategy for rolling stock aimed at facilitating transnational passenger operations. Latvia has proactively endorsed the initiative, assigning the pertinent responsibilities to AS Pasazieru vilciens.



Furthermore, strategic dialogues regarding the reinstatement of passenger ferry operations are on the agenda. In alignment with this objective, Minister Svinka, in conjunction with Riga Mayor Viesturs Kleinbergs and additional delegates from the Riga City Council, will convene with Tallink Grupp's Chairman of the Board, Paavo Nogene, alongside Board Members Elise Nassar and Margus Schults.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. On Tuesday, August 12, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved the management rules for the 20192029 SwissLatvian Cooperation Program, Trend reports.

The regulations are designed to ensure clear, consistent, and effective horizontal governance in line with sound financial management principles for implementing and monitoring Switzerlands contribution of approximately 42.4 million euros (CHF 40.4 million).

The rules establish uniform conditions for all institutions involved in managing the Swiss contribution, as well as for project implementers and their national partners receiving Swiss financial support across four programs:

Childrens cancer care development  improving oncology diagnostics and personalized treatment approaches at the Childrens Clinical University Hospital, including the introduction of a long-term monitoring system for children who have recovered from cancer. This system could later be expanded to adult oncology and rare disease patients. Total program funding: 9.26 million euros, including a Swiss grant of 7.87 million euros.

Remediation of historically contaminated sites  in Aizkraukle, a national-level cleanup is underway at the site of a former reinforced concrete plant, eliminating contamination risks to groundwater and the Daugava River. Total funding: 15.07 million euros, including a Swiss grant of 12.81 million euros.

Applied research  strengthening LatvianSwiss cooperation in innovative materials, information and communication technologies, and smart energy, as well as promoting the transfer of knowledge from science to universities, industry, and society. Total funding: 12.35 million euros, including a Swiss grant of 10.50 million euros.

Work-based learning  addressing key challenges in Latvias vocational education system, including a shortage of skilled specialists, an aging teaching workforce, and the need to enhance cooperation with industry. Total funding: 12.35 million euros, including a Swiss grant of 10.50 million euros.

This is the second period of the SwissLatvian Cooperation Program. Agreements for all four programs have already been signed, preparatory work has begun, and implementation is proceeding according to the agreements and principles set out in the SwissLatvian Cooperation Program Management Law for 20192029.

With the approval of the management rules, all prerequisites have been met for the programs to be fully implemented by December 2029, delivering significant improvements in healthcare, environmental protection, science, and education.
Iran's product imports from Turkmenistan take nosedive

Irans imports from Turkmenistan dropped 59.4 percent in value and 56.7 percent in weight over the first four months of the current Iranian year. Iran imported $2.47 million worth of goods, totaling 1,840 tons, compared to $6.1 million and 4,260 tons last year.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Kazakhstan and the Netherlands are joining forces to forge a new partnership that spans various sectors of the economy. With the winds of change blowing in favor of the Middle Corridor and a pivot towards renewable energy, the two countries are joining forces in a way that could tip the scales of trade and investment between Europe and Asia.

Kazakhstans partnership with the Netherlands is expanding across agriculture, transport infrastructure, and the green economy, Giulia Cretti, research associate at the Clingendael Institute, told Trend in an exclusive interview.

The Netherlands has been the cream of the crop when it comes to investing in Kazakhstan for years, with a whopping total gross inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) hitting $67 billion. Agriculture continues to be the bread and butter of Kazakh-Dutch cooperation, coming in a close second to energy in the grand scheme of bilateral engagements.

Kazakhstan possesses extensive agrarian landscapes and resources, whereas the Netherlands is recognized as a frontrunner in the realm of sustainable agronomy, advanced greenhouse systems, and seed innovation. This positions the Netherlands as an optimal collaborator for synergistic knowledge transfer, co-initiatives, and the deployment of cutting-edge solutions aimed at enhancing crop resilience and adapting to climatic fluctuations, noted Cretti.



Recent official metrics substantiate the agricultural sector's vigorous trajectory in Kazakhstan, with gross output across agriculture, forestry, and fisheries attaining $3.4 billion from January to June 2025, exhibiting a physical volume index of 103.7 percent relative to the corresponding timeframe last year.



Nonetheless, the augmentation of economic interconnections is fundamentally contingent upon enhancements to logistical frameworks, especially within the Middle Corridoran essential transcontinental commerce artery linking China to Europe via Central Asia and the Caucasus. This pathway presents a tactical option to the conventional Northern and Southern Corridors, optimizing regional interconnectivity and trade diversification. The throughput of freight logistics along the designated corridor surged by 69 percent in 2024, reaching an impressive 2.9 million tons, with strategic objectives aimed at scaling the annual cargo capacity to 10 million tons by 2030.

Cretti emphasized the infrastructure challenges and the need for a conducive investment climate to realize the corridors full potential.

To encourage a greater involvement from the Dutch private sector, there is a need to increase the transparency and predictability of the business climate through regulatory reforms. De-risking mechanisms and incentives at the EU level are also crucial to attract the private sector, Cretti stated.

The Middle Corridor weaves its way through a patchwork of sovereign landsKazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiyeshowcasing the tangled web of geopolitical challenges in crafting a smooth, sanctions-free transport route. A secured and efficient corridor would significantly scale Dutch manufacturing and green investments in Kazakhstans regions.

Moreover, Kazakhstan possesses substantial stockpiles of critical minerals essential for the ecological transition, encompassing uranium, copper, and zinc. In accordance with the EUs strategic imperatives, Kazakhstans sustainable economic framework presents compelling prospects, particularly in the domain of critical raw materials (CRM) and the burgeoning sector of green hydrogen. The European Union has previously executed a Strategic Partnership Memorandum of Understanding with Kazakhstan in 2022 to ensure a resilient supply chain of Critical Raw Materials and is currently seeking to implement it through the Roadmap ratified at the EU-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand, Cretti remarked.



Kazakhstan's extensive natural resource portfolio and its advantageous geopolitical location adjacent to the Caspian Sea position it as a pivotal player in the burgeoning green hydrogen sector, which is currently undergoing rigorous exploration and innovative development initiatives within the European market for optimal export strategies.



Advancements in the renewable energy sector are quantifiable: statistics from Kazakhstans Ministry of Energy indicate that renewable sources constituted 6 percent of the overall electricity generation by the first quarter of 2025, aligning with the objectives delineated in the national Concept for the Transition to a Green Economy.

Kazakhstans dynamic collaboration with the Netherlands serves as a paradigm of a holistic strategy for sustainable development, harnessing agricultural advancements, optimizing transport infrastructure, and catalyzing investments in the green economy. The actualization of these aspirations necessitates navigating complex regulatory frameworks and geopolitical dynamics, enhancing transparency mechanisms, and galvanizing private sector engagement via conducive policy environments and robust international collaboration. Achievement in these domains will not merely fortify Kazakh-Dutch relations but will also amplify Kazakhstans strategic position as a pivotal nexus bridging Asia and Europe on sustainable and robust economic frameworks.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 13. In line with the President of Kazakhstans directive to conduct a comprehensive study of the Caspian Sea, 305 million tenge (approximately $549,000) has been allocated from the Government's reserve fund to the Kazakhstan Research Institute of the Caspian Sea, Trend reports via the Government of Kazakhstan.

The institute was established to study the environmental problems of the Caspian Sea. Specifically, its activities include assessing fish stock levels, developing methods and technologies for their conservation, studying ichthyofauna (fish populations), identifying the causes of mass seal deaths, and working to preserve their population.

In addition, the institute specializes in studying the seas hydrological processes and monitoring its water levels, analyzing climate changes and their impact on the ecosystem, collecting and analyzing data on water quality, biodiversity, and other parameters of the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea and its coastline.

The funds allocated from the Government's reserve will be directed toward the further development of the institute and will enable timely and effective research activities in the fields of hydrobiology and hydrochemistry, hydrometeorology, satellite monitoring, and in addressing other tasks assigned to the institute, the statement reads.

The Caspian Sea represents a unique ecosystem and a vital source of aquatic biological resources. It also plays a key role in the sustainable development of Kazakhstans western regions and the country as a whole. Kazakhstans Caspian Sea coastline stretches 2,320 km - the longest among all the Caspian littoral states.
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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 13. A new industrial zone was officially inaugurated in Weifang, China, established through a partnership between Haiyue International and the Fergana regional administration, Trend reports.

A delegation from Fergana region attended the opening ceremony.

Deputy Head of the region Nuriddin Mamadzhonov delivered a presentation highlighting the regions trade and economic potential, as well as the support measures available for investors in the new industrial zones.

In addition, roundtable discussions and B2B meetings were held, involving deputy hokims of cities and districts, business representatives, and more than 100 Chinese companies.

This milestone comes amid broader efforts to deepen economic ties between Uzbekistan and China. In the previous fiscal year, bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded $13 billion. Both sides reaffirmed their strong commitment to achieving the ambitious $20 billion trade target set by their national leaderships, underscoring ongoing efforts to expand cooperation across multiple sectors.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 13. Eldik Bank OJSC has completed the acquisition of a 100 percent stake in Sky Mobile, which operates under the Beeline Kyrgyzstan brand, Trend reports via President Sadyr Japarov's press service.

The deal is part of a state-backed strategy, supported by President Japarov, aimed at advancing the countrys digital infrastructure and modernizing the economy.

The purchase of this strategic telecommunications asset will facilitate the integration of modern financial and digital services, enhance access to technology for citizens and businesses, and stimulate innovative growth.

The transaction was conducted in accordance with international standards of transparency and corporate governance, reinforcing the investment climate and supporting sustainable development across key sectors of Kyrgyzstans economy.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 13. Over the past eight years, more than $8 billion in investments have been attracted to the Bukhara region, significantly diversifying the structure of its economy, Trend reports, citing the Uzbek Presidents office.

In the industrial sector alone, 6,000 new enterprises have been launched, and industrial output has increased more than sixfold.

The announcement was made during a government meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, dedicated to evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing reforms and the implementation of new projects in Bukhara region.

Tourism has also seen substantial development: infrastructure has been improved, new facilities have been established, and well-known hotel brands have entered the region. Annual tourist arrivals reached 1.7 million.

Following the presidential decree, additional measures were introduced to develop industry and services in the Bukhara region. As a result, industrial production grew by 7.3 percent in the first half of 2025, 198 new industrial enterprises were established, and the gross regional product increased by 6.4 percent.

A reform headquarters established on the initiative of the President in Bukhara continues to identify new opportunities for economic growth. During the presentation, officials showcased a series of new investment projects.

Turkish entrepreneurs have shown interest in graphite mining and processing in Peshkun district, a Vietnamese company plans to build a modern residential complex, and an Indian company intends to construct a surgical center. On a 217-hectare site, 260 projects are planned, which are expected to create over 10,000 jobs.

Overall, a package of 21 new projects worth $1.7 billion has been formed in the region. Their implementation will create 32,000 jobs and generate an export potential of $180 million.

President Mirziyoyev emphasized the additional opportunities for economic development in the region and for ensuring employment. In Peshkun district, affordable greenhouses have already been built on land leased from residents to grow export-oriented crops. The goal is to expand this experience and establish such greenhouses in 5,000 households across the region.

Vineyards will be planted on 10,000 hectares in Shafirkan, Gijduvan, Peshkun, and Bukhara districts, while orchards with apricots, cherries, figs, and other high-demand fruits will be established on 5,000 hectares in Vabkent, Gijduvan, Jandar, Romitan, and Kagan districts.

Industry remains another strategic focus. The region hosts two major oil and gas enterprises, with another under construction, and 10 large solar and wind power plants are actively being built. A network of small enterprises could be developed around these facilities, boosting investment, industrial production, and exports.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 13. A meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council, attended by the heads of government of EAEU member states, will take place in Cholpon-Ata on August 1415, Trend reports via the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan.

The agenda includes 20 key issues, such as monitoring the customs value of taxable goods imported from third countries, implementing the Strategic Directions for the Development of Eurasian Economic Integration until 2025, and approving the program for developing exchange trading in the Common Commodity Exchange Market.

Officials will also review reports on the formation of common markets for oil, oil products, and gas within the EAEU, examine the EEC report on competition in cross-border markets for 2024, and consider measures to prevent violations of competition rules. Other topics include coordinated transport policy and the development of a common market for medicines and medical devices.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 13. Representatives of the Committee for the Development of Competition and Protection of Consumer Rights held a meeting with experts from the Asian Development Bank, led by mission head Abdufarrukh Khabirov, Trend reports.

The dialogues centered around actionable strategies to optimize the integrity and dependability of electrical distribution, safeguard consumer entitlements, foster competitive dynamics within the industry, identify infractions, and elevate societal legal literacy.



The event signifies a pivotal advancement in enhancing synergies between the Committee and the Asian Development Bank, inaugurating a novel phase in elevating service excellence and fortifying consumer protections within Uzbekistans energy domain.



In the first quarter of this fiscal year, a strategic alignment was established between Uzbekistan and the Asian Development Bank through a formalized Memorandum of Understanding, delineating collaborative frameworks for the governance and operational synergies between the Government of Uzbekistan and the ADB for the triennium spanning 2026 to 2028. The memorandum delineates the strategic framework for the execution of 28 novel initiatives aggregating a fiscal commitment of $4.2 billion.



As of now, the Asian Development Bank has executed a total of 267 public sector financing instruments, encompassing loans, grants, guarantees, and technical assistance initiatives, aggregating to a substantial $13.4 billion allocation for Uzbekistan.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to strengthening its brotherly relations with Azerbaijan, emphasizing shared values, mutual trust, and common aspirations, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Embassy in Islamabad.

During a meeting with Azerbaijans Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Zardari highlighted the potential to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and regional connectivity. He noted that enhancing economic links and connectivity would bring the two countries closer and promote shared prosperity.

President Zardari also congratulated the Ambassador on Azerbaijans historic document signed with Armenia in Washington. He described this process as a significant step toward lasting peace, stability, and development in the region.

The President welcomed the launch of direct air links between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, calling it an important step that opens new opportunities for trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

Additionally, he expressed gratitude for Azerbaijans continued support of Pakistans stance on Jammu and Kashmir, particularly within the framework of the OIC Contact Group.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 13. In the last five years, a whopping 396 large enterprises have sprung up in Uzbekistans textile sector, reeling in $3.5 billion in investments and sending total production soaring to $10 billion, Trend reports.

The announcement came during a video conference chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, which focused on further supporting the textile industrya sector that contributes 3 percent to the national economy and 14 percent to industrial output.

Nonetheless, the deceleration in production and export trajectories has necessitated the implementation of immediate strategic interventions to sustain output levels, preserve employment, and ensure the integrity of export volumes in the face of evolving global dynamics.



The global cotton market has experienced a pronounced contraction since 2022, with prices plummeting from $3,000 per ton to $1,500 per ton over a three-year horizon, thereby engendering substantial obstacles for textile clusters. A multitude of entrepreneurs are strategically reallocating capital derived from recent harvests to service legacy debt, thereby establishing a nexus of financial commitments across agricultural cycles.



In order to address these challenges, preferential financing mechanisms for cotton feedstock for the 20222023 cycle were implemented on three separate occasions, alongside the allocation of subsidies amounting to 1 million soums ($91) per metric ton in the previous fiscal year to bolster agricultural producers and ensure market price stabilization.



President Mirziyoyev articulated that the recent depreciation in pricing was not an instantaneous phenomenon and underscored the necessity for the economic apparatus, in conjunction with research entities, to devise a spectrum of scenarios and strategic solutions to adeptly navigate such market oscillations.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Arif will visit Kyrgyzstan to participate in a meeting of the prime ministers of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states on August 14, Trend reports.

The first vice president will be accompanied by a delegation on the visit.

As part of the visit, in addition to speaking at the meeting of the prime ministers of the EAEU, the Iranian official will hold meetings with officials of the member states and exchange views on ways to enhance bilateral, multilateral and regional relations.

To note, the EAEU member states accepted Iran as an observer member of this union last year.

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ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, August 13. The Eurasian Transport Network is set to play a key role in transforming Central Asia and the South Caucasus into a major crossroads of trade and transit routes, contributing to the priorities of the Awaza Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries (APoA) 20242034, Trend reports via the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB).

The EDB, whose six out of seven member states are landlocked, emphasized its commitment to promoting the socioeconomic development of these countries and enhancing their connectivity. The bank presented its Eurasian Transport Network Concept and Transport Projects Observatory during a thematic side event organised by UNESCAP in the framework of the recent UN Conference on Landlocked Countries held in Awaza, showcasing initiatives to strengthen trade routes and regional integration.

The EDB highlighted that improving transport connectivity is critical for landlocked countries, which cover 15.9 million square kilometres, have a population of 570 million, and face economic disadvantages due to their distance from maritime routes. The Eurasian Transport Network is designed to support APoA Priority Area 2 (Trade, Trade Facilitation and Regional Integration) and Priority Area 3 (Transit, Transport and Connectivity), unlocking the economic and trade potential of the region.
Kazakhstan, China launch initiative to build largest municipal market in Abai region

Photo: Akimat (local government) of the Kazakhstans Abai region

Construction has begun on the largest municipal market in Semey, Kazakhstan, led by Chinese company Xin Yi Ltd. The market, funded entirely by Xin Yi Ltd with an investment of about $27 million, aims to boost the local economy, create new jobs, and provide free stalls for local farmers to stabilize food prices.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 13. Azerbaijan and the East Kazakhstan region are looking to join forces and take the bull by the horns in trade, tourism, industry, and agriculture, Trend reports via the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Kazakhstans Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Alim Bayel, paid a working visit to the East Kazakhstan region, where he met with the regional Akim (Governor), Nurymbet Saktaganov. During the meeting, Alim Bayel noted that the East Kazakhstan region holds significant interest for Azerbaijan in terms of developing mutual trade, industrial cooperation, and agriculture.

This year, Kazakhstan became the main supplier of wheat to Azerbaijan, accounting for 85 percent of Azerbaijans grain imports, the diplomat stated during the meeting.

He additionally put forth the initiative to initiate the exportation of sunflower oilone of East Kazakhstans prominent commoditiesto the allied nation. Bayel catalyzed the conceptualization of establishing a synergistic partnership for the optimization of sunflower processing operations. The envoy elaborated that a multitude of entrepreneurs hailing from East Kazakhstan are poised to initiate the supply chain of honey to Azerbaijani retail conglomerates imminently.



Saktaganov emphasized the synergies and collaborative opportunities for synergistic initiatives between the East Kazakhstan region and Azerbaijan within these sectors.



Entrepreneurs hailing from East Kazakhstan possess a plethora of innovative solutions and value propositions that can significantly enhance the Azerbaijani market landscape. "In light of our spatial adjacency, sociocultural connections, and the multifaceted tourism potential inherent in East Kazakhstan, the region is poised to deliver health and wellness tourism experiences tailored for visitors hailing from Azerbaijan," articulated Saktaganov, as referenced in the press communique.



Saktaganov further elucidated the region's extensive prospects within the mining sector. At the culmination of the symposium, both parties reached a consensus to initiate the execution of tangible initiatives.

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SUMGAYIT, Azerbaijan, August 13. The humanitarian cargo from Azerbaijan to Ukraine includes a total of 90,000 meters of electrical cables and wires, as well as 25 generators and seven sets of transformers, spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy Jahid Mikayilov told local media, Trend reports.

He mentioned that the aim of sending the equipment is to lend a helping hand in getting the electricity back on track for the areas hit hard by the ongoing war in Ukraine.

"The humanitarian aid consisting of 10 TIRs is being sent today. The cargo is expected to be delivered to Ukraine within two weeks.

The next part of the equipment, organized upon the request of the Ukrainian side and with a total value of $2 million, will be sent in an additional nine TIRs.

The equipment was manufactured in Azerbaijan," he added.

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SUMGAYIT, Azerbaijan, August 13. The total amount of humanitarian assistance provided by Azerbaijan to Ukraine in connection with the war situation exceeds $44 million, spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy Jahid Mikayilov told local media, Trend reports.

He mentioned that the aim of sending the equipment is to lend a hand in getting the lights back on in the areas hit hard by the ongoing war in Ukraine.

To note, the first part of the next cargo of electrical equipment intended for humanitarian aid to Ukraine by the Republic of Azerbaijan was dispatched today from the territory of the Sumgait Technology Park.

The aid dispatch is ensured in accordance with the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated August 11, 2025.

The humanitarian cargo includes a total of about 90 thousand meters of electrical cables and wires, as well as 25 generators and seven sets of transformers. The first part of this equipment, which was sent to support the restoration of a stable electricity supply to the regions affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine, was sent in a convoy of 10 trucks. The next part of the aid, which was put together based on the requests from the Ukrainian side and comes to a total of $2 million, is set to be sent out in the coming days.

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Kazakhstan discloses major funding for entrepreneurs and SMEs in 7M2025

Photo: Official information source of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Baiterek Holding has allocated 3.5 trillion tenge ($6.3 billion) to support entrepreneurs as of July 31, 2025, including 1.75 trillion tenge ($3.15 billion) to SMEs and 657.5 billion tenge ($1.18 billion) to the agro-industrial sector. Large businesses and exporters received 1.38 trillion tenge ($2.48 billion) and 394 billion tenge ($709 million), respectively.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 13. Today, Starlink officially launches satellite internet services across Kazakhstan, Trend reports, citing the country's Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry.

With this launch, residents will gain access to high-speed, reliable internet via Starlinks low-Earth orbit satellite network, operated by SpaceX.

Starlink technology provides a stable connection even in the most remote and hard-to-reach areas, expanding access to modern digital services for the population, the ministry said in a statement.

On June 12, 2025, the Ministry and Starlink signed an agreement formalizing the companys commitment to operate in compliance with Kazakhstans laws while delivering its services.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 13. Officials from Kyrgyzstan and Turkiye sat down at the table to chew the fat about how to smooth out the wrinkles in visa and migration processes, Trend reports, citing the Kyrgyz MFA.

Seitik Zhumakadyr uulu, Director of the Consular Department of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, met with Mekin Mustafa Kemal Okem, Ambassador of Turkiye to Kyrgyzstan.

The dialogues centered around optimizing the operational frameworks of visa and migration protocols to enhance efficacy and user-friendliness for nationals of both jurisdictions. A spectrum of consular matters was also deliberated, encompassing the safeguarding of the rights and legitimate interests of Kyrgyz and Turkish nationals residing within the jurisdictions of one another.



Both parties underscored the criticality of sustained discourse and pragmatic collaboration to enhance bilateral engagement and tackle common challenges.

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DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, August 13. The forthcoming convening of the Council of Ministers of Internal Affairs representing the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) member states is slated for execution in Tajikistan in the year 2026, Trend reports, citing the ministrys press service.

The announcement came during the ongoing meeting in St. Petersburg on August 1114, attended by Ramazon Rahimzoda, Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan.

The convening in St. Petersburg encompassed a dozen pivotal subjects, encompassing strategic domains of collaboration among CIS law enforcement entities, advancements in intergovernmental initiatives aimed at crime mitigation, and the preliminary framework for optimizing information dissemination to counteract cybercriminal activities.

During the meeting, Rahimzoda articulated a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing both bilateral and multilateral synergies among the member states.

The inaugural convening of the Council of CIS Interior Ministers, alternatively referred to as the Council of Heads of Internal Affairs Agencies of the CIS Member States, transpired in 1992. This council was instituted to enhance synergies among the member states concerning matters pertinent to domestic governance and regulatory enforcement mechanisms.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 13. Iran will always strive to realize Lebanon's national interests, Secretary of the Iranian Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani told media during his visit to Beirut, Trend reports.

According to him, Iran will keep its shoulder to the wheel for the Lebanese people, just like it always has.

Larijani indicated that a series of strategic engagements will be conducted with the Lebanese president, the parliamentary speaker, the prime minister, and other key stakeholders as part of the visit's operational framework.

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The Point Lisas Desalination Plant will be offline for maintenance from Monday 18th to Saturday 24th August, 2025. WASA says the shutdown will affect water supply to parts of Central and South Trinidad, including St. Helena, Chaguanas, Cunupia, Couva, Claxton Bay, Gasparillo, San Fernando, South Oropouche, Fyzabad, Siparia, and La Brea.

Measures will include water redistribution, temporary supply schedules, boosted storage, and priority deliveries to hospitals and special needs facilities. Residents are urged to store water early and practice conservation during the period. Limited truck-borne supply will be available via WASA's portal at www.wasa.gov.tt or by calling 800-4420/4426. www.wasa.gov.tt or by calling 800-4420/4426.
Alaska climate report: Above and below normal, July had it all

Photo courtesy of the Alaska Division of Forestry

An Ester Volunteer Fire Department engine joins efforts to suppress the Nenana Ridge Complex fires on July 2, 2025.

Nome was a hot place to be in early July. The temperature was 20 degrees above normal at one point during that period, according to the monthly summary of the Alaska Climate Research Center.

The center, part of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, released its July summary earlier this month.

Nome, on Alaskas Seward Peninsula, had a record high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit on July 6, breaking the record of 77 degrees set in 1986. Nome also set records for the highest average daily temperature on two days: 72.5 degrees on July 5, breaking the 2008 record of 69.5 degrees, and 68 degrees on July 6, breaking the record 66.5 degrees of 1986.

Higher-than-normal temperatures were felt across much of the northern half of the state.

July started out hot and smoky in much of Alaska, the summarys authors noted. Warm air masses spread far into the Arctic under an upper level ridge centered over mainland Alaska.

The high pressure zone expanded and kept building through the Fourth of July weekend, spreading from Siberia into Alaska into Canada.

Heat advisories were issued for the North Slope and parts of Alaskas West Coast, along with red flag warnings for fire conditions in the Interior. Thunderstorms spread across Southcentral and the Interior during the second week, sparking new fires.

Even so, monthly mean temperatures in July were mostly between only about 1 and 2 degrees Fahrenheit above the 1991-2020 normal at most reporting sites because cooler weather prevailed later in the month.

Most Alaska regions tend to have their highest monthly mean temperatures in July, marking the peak of summer and the gradual transition to fall.

Bettles topped the list of monthly means with 2.6 degrees above normal, followed by Utqiagvik and Delta Junction tied at 1.9 degrees.

Southcentral and parts of Southwest Alaska had a cooler month compared with northern areas and the Interior. Anchorage, Talkeetna, King Salmon and Kodiak had a close-to-average July.

Other July highlights:

July was a relatively dry month overall in much of the state. Many stations received around 40%-60% of their normal precipitation. The wettest stations relatively were in the Southwest, with Kodiak and Cold Bay topping the list with 139% and 146% of normal. Ketchikan was the driest station in relative terms, receiving only 36% of normal rainfall.

Arctic sea ice extent continued near a record low level for the time of year. Total sea ice extent as of Aug. 1 was 6.209 million square kilometers, compared with 9.692 million square kilometers on June 26.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Martin Stuefer, director, Alaska Climate Research Center, mstuefer@alaska.edu

037-26
Hajj 2026: 95,336 Pilgrims in Waiting List after Qurrah

A total of 95,336 pilgrims from 11 Indian states have been put in Haj 2026 Waiting List after the Hajj Qurrah or Draw of lots done at Haj Committee of India Wednesday August 13, 2025

Wednesday August 13, 2025 8:18 PM , ummid.com News Network

Haj 2026 Waiting List: A total of 95,336 pilgrims from 11 Indian states have been put in Haj 2026 Waiting List after the Hajj Qurrah or Draw of lots done at Haj Committee of India Wednesday August 13, 2025.

The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) released the Hajj 2026 Waiting List on its official website hajcommittee.gov.in for confirmation after the Advance Hajj Amount due date.

The Hajj 2026 Qurrah started at 11:30 AM in the Committee Room, Haj Committee of India, Hajj House in Mumbai today on August 13, 2025 as per the scheduled time.

The draw done via Random Digital Selection process was fully online. The entire process was live streamed on Haj Committee YouTube Channel.

Haj 2026 Waiting List

A total of 95,336 Pilgrims from 11 Indian States have been put in the waiting list after the Hajj 2026 Qurrah done today with the following details:

Chattisgarh: 292 Delhi: 2,902 Gujarat: 26,071 Haryana: 33 Karnataka: 9,818 Kerala: 18,588 Madhya Pradesh: 5,765 Maharashtra: 17,443 Tamil Nadu: 6,813 Telangana: 7,469 Uttarakhand: 142

(Total Pilgrims in Haj 2026 Waiting List: 95,336)

The pilgrims in the waiting list should note that their chance will come when an applicant in the provisionally selected list does not pay advance Haj amount before the due date. A separate wait list will be published, likely, after August 20, 2025 - the last date of Haj Amount Payment date.

Hajj 2026 List of Selected Pilgrims

A total of 1,00,491 applicants from 32 Indian States and Union Territories (UTs) have been included in the List of Selected Pilgrims as per the following details.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands: 133 Andhra Pradesh: 2,315 Assam: 2,566 Bihar: 2,755 Chandigarh: 33 Chhattisgarh: 597 Daman & Diu: 21 Dadra & Nagar Haveli: 62 Delhi: 2,071 Goa: 2,023 Gujarat: 5,717 Haryana: 1,709 Himachal Pradesh: 70 Jammu & Kashmir: 5,166 Jharkhand: 1,653 Karnataka: 7,595 Kerala: 8,530 Ladakah: 340 Lakshadweep: 111 Madhya Pradesh: 4,567 Maharashtra: 12,443 Manipur: 413 Odisha: 648 Puducherry: 155 Punjab: 327 Rajasthan: 4,772 Tamil Nadu: 4,033 Telangana: 4,288 Tripura: 80 Uttar Pradesh: 18,760 Uttarakhand: 1,349 West Bengal: 5,189

(Total Pilgrims Selected after Qurrah: 1,00,491)

There is no application from Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim.

The applicants whose names are in the list should note that their selection is provisional and will be confirmed only after they deposit the Advance Haj Amount by August 20, 2025, as notified by the Haj Committee of India earlier.

Advance Hajj Amount

The Haj Committee of India in the notification also said that the pilgrims will be required to pay the Advanced Haj Amount (First Installment Haj Payment) if their name appears in the Qurrah list.

"All provisionally selected pilgrims will be required to pay the advance Haj amount of Rs. 1,52,300/- latest by August 20, 2025 if their name is in the list of pilgrims released after the Qurrah", the Haj Committee of India said.

The selection of the pilgrims will be confirmed only after they pay the advance Haj amount. The Haj application could be cancelled in case the Advance Haj Amount is not paid in time. Pilgrims should be careful as the Haj Committee and the Minority Affiars Ministry have laid down strict conditions for refund in case of cancellation.

Link and Steps to Check Haj 2026 Selection /Waiting List

Go to Haj Committee of India website by clicking here: " hajcommittee.gov.in ".

". On the Home Page, click on the link marked as "Provisional Selection List" or "Waiting List"

Select your state

Download the PDF file and check your name



Hajj 2026 Quota

The Hajj Qurrah or draw of lots and qurandazi is held when number of applications received by the Haj Committee is more than its allotted quota of Haj pilgrims.

As per the Hajj Qurrah held today, all applicants in as many as 21 Indian States and UTs were selected as number of applicants there were less than or equal to the allotted quota.

Saudi Arabia allots a fixed quota of Hajj to countries based on the population of Muslims in that country. As per the Bilateral Haj Agreement signed between India and Saudi Arabia, a total of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India will perform Hajj this year. An estimated 70% of them will visit Makkah through the Haj Committee of India. The remaining 30% will perform Hajj through Private Tour Operators or Haj Group Organisers (HGOs).

The Haj Committee of India had started receiving through its website hajcommittee.gov.in from July 07, 2025 Hajj Application Form (HAF) of the pilgrims who wished to embark on Hajj 2026 (Haj 1447 AH).

The last date of application was originally fixed as July 31, 2025. It was, however, extended till August 07, 2025.

Qurbani (Adahi)

The Haj committee has also advised pilgrims to use the Qurbai facility provided by it through authorised entities.

"Adahi (Qurbani) is permitted only through entities authorised by KSA for the same. Pilgrims should not fall prey tofraudsters in the name of Qurbani.

"Adahi through authorised entities will be arranged by HCoI for the covers who opt for it (all pilgrims of a cover have to opt together). Once exercised, the option cannot be revoked. The Adahi (Qurbani) coupons will be optional.

"The HCoI will issue a n advisory in format of dos & donts for pilgrims which will also have information about Adahi coupon (how does it look, colour, features etc)", the Haj Committee guidelines for Hajj 2026 said.

Hajj 2026 Flight Schedule

The Hajj 2026 Action Plan has not released yet the date and time of inbound and outbound flights from India to Saudi Arabia and vice-versa.

The Haj Committee of India, however, said there will be a total 18 Hajj Embarkations Points. The details of EPs are as under:

1. Srinagar, 2. Gaya, 3. Guwahati, 4. Indore, 5. Jaipur, 6. Nagpur, 7. Delhi, 8. Mumbai, 9. Kolkata, 10. Bengaluru, 11. Hyderabad, 12. Cochin, 13. Chennai, 14. Ahmedabad, 15. Lucknow, 16. Kannur, 17. Calicut 18. Vijayawada

The Haj Committee publishes details of first Haj flight from India and the first return flight from Saudi Arabia in advance along with the complete flight schedule. The Haj flight schedule should be published in due course.

The likely date of Hajj 2026 is May 24 to 29, 2026. The final date of Haj 2026 (1447), however, will be confirmed after Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH moon sighting.

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Maha Direct 2nd Yr Engg 2025 Round 2 Allotment - Direct Link

Candidates should note that date of reporting to the allotted Institute and Confirmation of Admission after DSE 2025 CAP Round 2 result is from August 16 to 18, 2025

Thursday August 14, 2025 1:03 AM , ummid.com News Network

Maharashtra Direct Second Year Egineering CAP Round 2 Allotment 2025: Maharashtra CET Cell is set to release today i.e. Thursday August 14, 2025 on its official website dse2025.mahacet.org.in Provisional Allotment Result of CAP Round 2 of candidates who have registered for admission in Direct 2nd Year Engineering and Technology (BE and B Tech) courses for the year 2025-26.

DSE 2025 CAP Round 2 Counselling

The Maharashtra CET Cell had published on July 23, 2025 DSE 2025 Provisional Merit List of registered candidates. The CET Cell had on July 29, 2025 released DSE 25 Final Merit List and Seat Matrix i.e. distribution of vacant seats in different colleges available for admission in Direct Second Year Engineering and Technology (BE and B Tech) courses.

Following the release of DSE Final Merit and Seat Matrix, the CET Cell published the Round 1 Allotment result on August 05, 2025. Admission confirmation and reporting time after DSE Round 1 allotment was August 06 to 08, 2025.

The CET Cell released the details of the vacant seats for DSE CAP Round 2 on August 09, and asked the candidates to submit options from August 10 to 12, 2025.

Now, based on the options submitted by the candidates, the CET Cell will release today i.e. Thursday August 14, 2025 DSE 2025 Round 2 Allotment result on its official website.

Steps to check Direct 2nd Year Engineering CAP Round 2 Allotment Result

Go to the official website: " dse2025.mahacet.org.in ".

". Click on the link "CAP Round 2 Provisional Allotment List" under Important Links section of the Home Page.

Enter your Application ID which starts with DSE25 and Date of Birth.

Click on Submit button to check your name and position.

Candidates should note that the CET Cell has confirmed date of release of DSE 2025 CAP Round 2 result. It has not mentioned any specific time. As per previous records however, DSE CAP Round 2 result will be published any time by today evening.

Online registration for the students seeking admission in DSE 2025 - Direct Second Year Full Time Under Graduate Course in Engineering (B.E. / B Tech), started through the official website dse2025.mahacet.org.in on July 04, 2025 .

The last date of online registration and application was July 19, 2025, as per the DSE 2025 Counselling Schedule released by the Maharashtra CET Cell.

Maharashtra Direct 2nd Year Engineering Admission 2025 - Important Dates

Online registration of application and uploading of required documents by the Candidate for admission on website (For Maharashtra State/All India/NRI/OCI/PIO/CIWGC/FN candidates): July 04 to 19, 2025 (Extended from July 15 to 19).

Display of DSE 2025 Provisional Merit List: July 23, 2025

Display of DSE25 Final Merit list of Maharashtra State/All India candidates on website: July 29, 2025

Display of Provisional Category wise Seats (Seat Matrix) for CAP Round I: July 30, 2025

Display of Provisional Allotment of DSE 25 CAP Round I: August 05, 2025

Display of DSE 2025 Provisional Allotment of CAP Round II: August 14, 2025

Date of admission confirmation CAP Round 2: August 16 to 18, 2025

Display of Provisional Vacant Seats for Direct 2nd year DSE 25 CAP Round III : August 19, 2025

Display of DSE 2025 Provisional Allotment of CAP Round 3: August 24, 2025

After publication of DSE Final Merit List on July 29, the admission process moved to the next stage when candidates whose names appear in the Final Merit List were asked to fill College Choice and Option Form.

Candidates should note that the CET Cell had published DSE 2025 Seat Matrix giving details of vacant seats in various colleges after publishing the Final Merit List.

Candidates were advised to read carefully the Seat Matrix before submitting DSE 2025 Option Form. This is important as allotment of seats will be done based on options submitted by the candidates.

Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

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WASHINGTON  The U.S. Department of Justice said Tuesday that George Washington University failed to adequately address antisemitism on campus, accusing the school of being "deliberately indifferent" to a hostile environment that targeted Jewish students and faculty.

In a letter to GWU President Ellen Granberg, the department detailed incidents dating back to protests in University Yard, including an encampment where students reported being harassed and intimidated. The department said those incidents created an environment that was "objectively offensive, severe and pervasive," and that university officials and campus police did not intervene appropriately.

The department has offered GWU the option to enter into a voluntary resolution agreement, but did not disclose specific terms. If the university does not cooperate or fails to implement required changes, it could lose federal funding.

"Every student has the right to equal educational opportunities without fear of harassment or abuse," Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon said in a statement. "Universities that promulgate antisemitic discrimination will face legal consequences."

GWU spokesperson Shannon McClendon said the school is reviewing the department's letter. She said the university has acted in accordance with policy and law, including during the encampment.

"We do not tolerate behavior that threatens our community or undermines meaningful dialogue," McClendon said. She added that the school continues to work with members of the Jewish community, local organizations, and law enforcement to address threats and protect students.

GWU is one of 10 universities recently reviewed by a federal task force on campus antisemitism. The schools were flagged for alleged antisemitic incidents reported since October 2023.

The university has not yet indicated whether it will accept the Justice Department's proposed agreement.
Small-business owners, entrepreneurs and startups will have the opportunity to give short pitch presentations about their businesses and raise awareness about their offerings during the Small Business Showcase Thursday, Sept. 11.

Kenny Overby and small-business owners will head the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network event from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Cottonwood Room of the Laramie County Public Library B, located at 220 Pioneer Ave. in Cheyenne. The event, which will focus on marketing and sales, is co-sponsored by Wyoming Library to Business.

Businesses interested in presenting must register with the Wyoming SBDC Network and email Overby at koverby@uwyo.edu by 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. 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.

Overby is the Wyoming SBDC Networks regional director for Goshen and Laramie counties and has 18 years of experience owning and running small businesses. He is passionate about helping entrepreneurs demystify small businesses and enjoy the journey of business ownership.

For more information, call Overby at (307) 631-7721 or email koverby@uwyo.edu.
Search underway for up to 20 missing people.

At least 20 people died after two boats carrying around 100 migrants capsized off the coast of Lampedusa, a tiny Italian island in the Mediterranean sea, on Wednesday.

The first eight bodies recovered from the sea were reportedly those of a newborn baby girl, two adult men, two women, and three teenagers (two males and one female).

There were believed to have been around 100 people on board the boats, of Egyptian, Somali, Pakistani and Sudanese citizenship, according to Italian media reports.

The Italian Red Cross confirmed that "60 people survived, including 56 men and four women".

Up to 20 people were still missing on Wednesday afternoon, with a complex rescue mission being carried out by the Italian coast guard, finance police and Frontex, the European border and coast guard agency.

According to initial testimony from survivors, the two boats departed Zawiya in Libya on Tuesday evening, heading for Sicily.

One of the two vessels reportedly began taking on water and subsequently capsized, about 20 kilometres southwest of Lampedusa.

Some of the migrants managed to transfer to the other boat, but many fell into the water. However the second boat, being suddenly overloaded, also capsized.

Filippo Ungaro, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency UNHRC, expressed "deep anguish" over the tragedy, noting that so far this year 675 deaths have been recorded in the central Mediterranean.

Italy's interior minister Matteo Piantedosi, who has pushed through a crackdown on illegal migration, said in a post on X that the disaster "once again confirms the urgency of preventing dangerous sea journeys, starting from the places of departure, and of relentlessly combating the ruthless profiteering of human traffickers that fuels this phenomenon."

Piantedosi said the tragedy occurred "despite the presence of a rescue force in operational readiness, composed of various national assets and private naval units," adding: "It is our duty to continue, with determination and firmness, to combat this shameful trade in human lives and to protect those at risk of being its victims."

Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government has been actively working with north African countries to stem migration flows, signing deals aimed at curbing irregular departures and strengthening border control.

Since 2014 more than 31,000 people have disappeared or died trying to make the perilous sea crossing between north Africa and Italy and Malta, according to the International Organization for Migration.

This is a developing story...

Photo credit: MikeDotta / Shutterstock.com.
Girl, 13, on catwalk for Miss Italia Mascotte.

Controversy has broken out in Italy after a 13-year-old girl appeared on a catwalk, wearing a bikini and high heels, during a Miss Italia Mascotte beauty pageant.

The event took place a few weeks ago in the southern Campania region but the case of the underage girl was brought to light on Monday by Italian journalist and television personality Selvaggia Lucarelli.

"Good evening everyone, good evening jury, I'm 13 years old and I'm competing as a Mascotte" - the girl says into the microphone in the video - "I'm a very determined girl, full of dreams. I'd like to be a model, and social media is already giving me an extra push to believe in myself."

Lucarelli interviewed Antonio Contaldo, the Miss Italy representative for Campania, who allowed the child on stage despite being underage.

"The girl wanted to play, and we let her play," he explained.

Reaction

The Miss Italia patron, Patrizia Mirigliani, was quick to react to the case which has sparked a major debate on social media in Italy.

In a statement, she announced the "immediate revocation of Antonio Contaldo's role as regional exclusive representative for Campania", describing the girl's participation as "absolutely morally unacceptable, a very serious violation of the regulations".

In order to parade in the Miss Mascotte event, participants must be aged at least 18. The last underage Miss Italia was 17-year-old Daniela Ferolla in 2001.

Mirigliani said she raised the age limit years ago, "precisely to avoid the presence of minors, a rule that must be respected even more so among mascots."

Social media

In an Instagram post highlighting the case, Lucarelli wrote:

"Behind the story is a mother who has been pushing the girl on the catwalk since she was 7, a cousin who has been promoting her on social media with questionable videos, and a world in which young girls are increasingly sexualized at an early age to make them famous on social media."
Joint appeal says "unimaginable" humanitarian situation in Gaza requires urgent action.

Italy on Tuesday joined 25 other countries and the European Commission in signing an urgent appeal to the Israeli authorities to grant unrestricted aid into the war-torn Gaza Strip.

The joint appeal, signed by foreign ministers from most EU member states along allies including Canada and the UK, calls on Israel to ensure that humanitarian workers and NGOs can safely continue their efforts to distribute food to the civilian population in Gaza.

Famine

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached "unimaginable levels", the appeal said, adding: "Famine is unfolding before our eyes. Urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation."

"All crossings and routes must be used to allow a flood of aid into Gaza, including food, nutrition supplies, shelter, fuel, clean water, medicine and medical equipment", the statement said, calling for civilians, aid workers and medical staff to be protected, and for "lethal force" not to be used at supply distribution sites.

The joint statement was signed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

Farnesina

The Italian ministry of foreign affairs states on its website: "In recent weeks, in various contacts with the Israeli government, Italy had already called for opening to aid and had committed itself to redoubling its efforts in favour of the most vulnerable segments of the population in the Gaza Strip."

Last weekend Italy began to airdrop 100 tons of humanitarian aid into Gaza as part of a week-long mission coordinated by the Italian defence ministry.

In an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Monday, Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto said that Israels government has lost reason and humanity over Gaza, adding: "What is happening is unacceptable."

Photo credit: Anas-Mohammed / Shutterstock.com.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A formal appeal over the leniency of the sentences of those indicted for the murder of Private Sean Rooney has been lodged, the Tanaiste has said.

Pte Rooney (24), from Newtowncunningham in Co Donegal, was killed when a convoy of Irish troops serving with a UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon was ambushed and fired upon on December 14th, 2022.

The shooting happened near the town of Al-Aqbiya in a stronghold of Hezbollah.

Pte Rooney was from the 121 Infantry Battalion of the Defence Forces.

The main person convicted for his killing is still at large and the Irish Government has described some of the sentences imposed on others over the matter as unduly lenient.

On Tuesday, Tanaiste Simon Harris said prosecutors in Lebanon have formally lodged an appeal against the sentences handed down to those who were indicted for the murder of Pte Rooney and the attacks on Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan and Trooper Nathan Bryan in the same incident.

Mr Harris wrote to the Lebanese government following last months trial to express the disappointment of the Irish Government and, in particular, of the Rooney family, at the leniency of the sentences handed down.

I have been in discussions with the Lebanese Government today. They have now appealed the leniency of the sentences for those who murdered Private Sean Rooney and injured his colleagues.



This is a welcome development. I spoke with Natasha Rooney on this today. pic.twitter.com/F5mDmWMDRs  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) August 12, 2025

He met Pte Rooneys family last week after his mother criticised Mr Harriss engagement with them over the matter.

Mr Harris, who is also the Minister for Defence and Foreign Affairs, had committed to holding urgent talks with the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers in order to press for an appeal.

Those talks took place on Tuesday.

Mr Harris said he then spoke to Pte Rooneys mother, Natasha McCloskey, and informed her that the Lebanese Government has appointed a new military chief prosecutor to take over the case.

He also said an appeal against the sentences has this afternoon been formally lodged with the military Cassation Court, while the Lebanese authorities have committed to taking urgent steps to ensure the individual convicted of the murder of Private Rooney is taken into custody.

Mr Harris said: I very much welcome the confirmation today from the Lebanese Justice and Defence Ministers that an appeal has been formally lodged against the sentences handed down in the case of the death of Private Sean Rooney and the injuries of his colleagues.

He added: In my calls with my Lebanese counterparts, I made it clear that the sentences handed down in this case are simply not acceptable and are very disappointing.

They have caused great upset and insult to the Rooney family and everything must be done to ensure justice is served for Sean and his colleagues who were injured.
A woman was recently fined 150 by Waterford City and County Council for the illegal disposal of waste.

A Waterford City and County Council spokesperson said that evidence was recovered from the outskirts of Waterford city which identified the owner of the waste.

The woman is question is a resident in the city.

She said she had paid someone who called to her door offering to take her waste.

Images: Waterford City and County Council

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer, with the Environment Section of Waterford City and County Council warned locals to verify the credentials of anyone they hire to remove waste.

Unfortunately there are unscrupulous people out there" he said.

"If you have waste to get rid of, make sure the person you are using has a waste permit.

"Authorised collectors are required to have their name and permit number on their vehicle, and you can verify that they are genuine by visiting the National Waste Collection Permit office website or by asking to see a copy of their permit.

People are responsible for their waste until it is accepted at a permitted facility and giving your waste to an inappropriate person can result, on summary prosecution, to a fine of up 5,000.
Two significant housing developments were refused permission to commence last week.

In Tramore, eight apartments were appealed and refused, whilst in Ardmore 25 homes have been refused following appeals from locals.

Tramore

In Tramore, the construction of eight apartments has been refused in the Riverstown area.

The apartments were planned to be contained within an existing premises, which was vacant and in a state of disrepair.

Planned were three two-bed apartments on the ground floor, and the construction of a new floor to the building to provide for one two-bedroom apartment, two one-bedroom apartments and two studio apartments.

A new three-storey extension to the front of the building was also planned. This extension would have contained a new stairwell and lift access.

The development was originally granted permission to proceed by Waterford City and County Council subject to 12 conditions, however, this decision was appealed to An Coimisiun Pleanala (formerly An Bord Pleanala).

A third-party appeal was received on behalf of Mary Egan and Donal Blackwell.

They outlined that the proposed development would encroach on their property, and that the site's zoned use is for "Tourism".

An Coimisiun Pleanala decided to refuse permission for the development, outlining that the use of the development for residential apartments would be incompatible with the areas "Tourism" zoning.

Ardmore

Meanwhile, further west in Ardmore, An Coimisiun Pleanala have also decided to refuse permission for the construction of 25 homes.

Plans for the project were submitted by Hollycourt Developments Ltd last year.

Outlined in these plans was the applicants intention to construct 25 residential units comprising of three two-bed houses, 16 three-bed houses and six four-bedroom houses.

An appeal was submitted to these plans from The Heritage Residents Association, who objected to the development on a number of grounds.

The grave concerns of residents were detailed in a letter to Waterford City and County Council signed by solicitor Gary Kingston.

Water supply, public lighting and roads issues were raised within the letter.

Waterford City and County Council refused permission on April 2.

The developer, Hollycourt Developments Ltd, later appealed this decision to An Coimisiun Pleanala.

The authority decided to uphold Waterford Councils decision to refuse permission for the development to proceed.
When we see news about the meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, we should think about a specific group of innocent young people who could be strongly affected by appeasing the Russian dictator and global bully.

Namely, there are as many as 20,000 Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory who have been seized by Moscow into an elaborate system of relocation to Russia and so-called re-education there. As confirmed by independent international human rights organisations, these children have been forcibly separated from their families, language, culture and communities, and are now being artificially assimilated and brainwashed.

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet in Alaska on Friday, US-time. Credit: Michael Howard

In fact, while Putin is guilty of many atrocities, such as bombing Ukrainian schools, hospitals and residential suburbs, the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children is the only war crime that he has been formally charged with by the International Criminal Court to date. He is the first leader in the history of a UN Security Council permanent member country to have been issued an international arrest warrant.

Indeed, some have suggested that Putin should be arrested immediately upon touching down on American soil. That would be just.
Hitachi Vantara, the data storage, infrastructure, and hybrid cloud management subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), today announced it has been named a Leader in the latest GigaOm Radar for Object Storage. The report recognises Hitachi Vantaras innovation in object storage, driven by Virtual Storage Platform One Object (VSP One Object), which debuted in November 2024. This recognition highlights VSP One Objects rapid innovation since its release, including industry-first native support for Amazon S3 Tables and advanced data intelligence services. This enables customers to move unstructured data into structured tables, allowing businesses to run high-performance, SQL-based analytics directly on open-format data without complex data movement, loading or extraction needed.

The GigaOm Radar for Object Storage is a comprehensive evaluation of enterprise object storage solutions, assessing 22 leading vendors on their ability to meet the evolving demands of modern data environments. As organisations face exponential growth in unstructured data  from images and videos to IoT and AI workloads  object storage has become a foundational technology for scalable, high-performance data management. This years report highlights the increasing importance of performance, security and edge readiness in object storage platforms, as well as the strategic value they offer to both IT professionals and business leaders seeking to drive innovation, ensure compliance, and build adaptable data infrastructure.

Featured in the Innovation/Platform Play quadrant, Hitachi Vantara earned high marks in several key areas, including:

Reporting and Analytics : Delivering advanced reporting on usage patterns, capacity trends and performance metrics, Hitachi Vantara enables businesses to understand who is accessing what data, how storage is increasing over time, and forecast possible usage trends.

: Delivering advanced reporting on usage patterns, capacity trends and performance metrics, Hitachi Vantara enables businesses to understand who is accessing what data, how storage is increasing over time, and forecast possible usage trends. Storage Optimisation : Hitachi Vantara helps organizations categorise data based on need and identify stale or redundant data that can be archived or deleted, helping to reduce costs and save space.

: Hitachi Vantara helps organizations categorise data based on need and identify stale or redundant data that can be archived or deleted, helping to reduce costs and save space. Public Cloud Integration: Expanded AWS S3 API support including the support for S3 Object Lock and S3 Tables, enhancing security and data management.

Hitachi Vantara is a global technology provider whose strategy centres on the VSP One common data plane, designed to unify block, file, and object storage, said Whit Walters, GigaOm analyst. Within this framework, Hitachi VSP One Object serves as an enterprise-grade object storage component, providing scalable, secure, and self-healing storage for diverse workloads like backups, archives, AI, and data analytics.

Meeting the Demands of Modern Data Workloads

The GigaOm Radar report underscores the growing importance of object storage as enterprises grapple with explosive data growth, AI-driven analytics, and the need for resilient, scalable infrastructure. Part of the VSP One portfolio of solutions, which brings block, file, SDS and object storage data onto one seamless platform, VSP One Object is purpose-built to meet these demands, supporting a wide range of use cases, from data protection to long-term retention, edge computing and real-time analytics. It supports open data formats like Apache Iceberg via S3 Tables, making it an ideal foundation for modern data lakehouse architectures. S3 Tables automate complex tasks like compaction, snapshot management, and metadata cleanup, which traditionally required specialized teams. This reduces operational overhead and allows enterprises to focus on analytics rather than infrastructure.

By enabling SQL queries directly on object storage, you eliminate the need for complex data pipelines and reduce infrastructure overhead, providing data lake simplicity with enterprise-grade power, said Octavian Tanase, Chief Product Officer at Hitachi Vantara. These enhancements to the VSP One portfolio reflect our broader vision for the future of data infrastructure  one unified platform, with a single control plane of VSP 360, across a single data plane for block, file, object, SDS, and mainframe storage. By enabling a fully integrated view of data across your cloud and on-premises environments, we provide customers with the flexibility and scalability to achieve new heights for data availability in the age of AI.

Additionally, to help enterprises better manage rising storage costs and performance demands, the upcoming VSP One Object release will add support for VSP One Block NVMe-QLC and TLC flash-based storage, delivering even greater price and performance advantages.

The latest recognition adds to Hitachi Vantaras growing list of industry accolades. Most recently, Hitachi Vantara won a 2025 Fortress Cybersecurity Award for Data Protection from Business Intelligence Group, based on VSP One Object. In recent months, the company was also recognised as a Leader and Fast Mover in the GigaOm Radar for High-Performance Storage Optimised for AI Workloads and a Leader and Outperformer in the GigaOm Radar for Primary Storage.

Upcoming Webinar on How Companies Can Modernize Their Data Lakehouse

Click here to register for an upcoming webinar titled Modernise the Lakehouse: Trends, Tech, and the Road Ahead, where you will hear a leading GigaOm analyst and Hitachi Vantara experts discussing the evolution of data lakehouses and the evolving requirements needed for businesses to succeed in the AI age. This will include real-world use cases, as well as a discussion on critical future innovations like metadata management and S3 integration.

For more information about VSP One Object, please visit: https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/products/storage/object-storage.html.
Beyond the classroom with the Wildcat MicroFUND: WSU students build software platform

August 13, 2025

OGDEN, Utah  What began as a capstone project at Weber State University has grown into an impactful student-led technology initiative.

In 2021, the Wildcat MicroFUND partnered with Richard C. Fry, professor in the School of Computing and director of the Catalyst Software Incubation Lab, to address a real-world challenge: streamlining the Wildcat MicroFUNDs entire workflow process from application intake to post-award reporting.

The Wildcat MicroFUND is an early-stage seed fund that helps businesses start and grow with grants up to $3,000. Recognizing the inefficiencies of existing processes, and lack of a suitable commercial solution, Catherine Holbrook Clark, manager of the Wildcat MicroFUND, saw an opportunity for improvement. She partnered with Fry to launch a collaborative initiative that would empower students.

Under their mentorship, a multidisciplinary team of WSU students designed and developed a custom software platform from the ground up.

We wanted to give students a project that mattered and we needed a real system with real users and real impact, said Holbrook Clark. We needed a product that simply didnt exist in the marketplace.

From the onset, students were empowered to lead every phase of development. Beginning with stakeholder interviews and detailed needs assessments, they mapped out pain points and process bottlenecks. That foundation gave way to user journey mapping, wireframe creation, and interface design.

The technical work that followed spanned nearly five years. Students coded, tested, and refined the platform across multiple iterations, translating a fragmented manual process into a smooth, web-based experience.

As the project matured, Fry selected promising students from his upper-level software engineering and systems development courses to join the team. These students gained hands-on experience in agile development, version control, full-stack engineering, and direct collaboration with stakeholders  practical skills that are often difficult to acquire through traditional coursework alone.

In spring 2024, Holbrook Clark selected seven standout student developers from Frys courses to lead the final push toward launching the platform for real users  entrepreneurs seeking support from the Wildcat MicroFUND.

All seven students graduated that semester, and Holbrook Clark brought on the graduate student software engineers to take on the final stages of development and oversight of the beta testing phase. Their efforts culminated in the official launch of the platform in August 2024.

This wasnt just about learning to code, it was about working on a team, meeting expectations, and building something that mattered, said Traci Day, graduate project manager.

The final product is a robust web-based software solution that powers the workflow process of the Wildcat MicroFUND. It handles application submissions, review and approval workflows, award tracking, post-award reporting, data management, and analytics. The system is already in full use and has been designed with scalability in mind, making it ready for other departments or institutions to adopt.

Catherine took a big, big chance on us and placed a tremendous amount of trust in our abilities, said Kai Cottrell, graduate lead full stack developer. I am forever grateful for her mentorship and her unwavering belief in our ability to deliver the end product. She did not just set all of us up for success in the workplace, she cared about each one of us and fostered our individual and collective talents.

Holbrook Clark said the project underscores the power of mentorship. With guidance from faculty and staff, students were given the autonomy to take the lead and gain experience.

This platform showcases the exceptional talent and marketplace readiness of our students, said Holbrook Clark. Its proof that innovative ideas and impactful solutions originate in the classrooms of Weber State University.
Dragos, the global leader in cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) environments, today announced the release of the 2025 OT Security Financial Risk Report, based on a study by global professional services firm Marsh McLennans Cyber Risk Intelligence Centre. In a first-of-its-kind industry analysis, the report provides statistical modeling that quantifies the potential financial risk of OT cyber incidents and estimates the effectiveness of key security controls, offering risk executives, insurers, and security leaders a practical path to measurable risk reduction.

Despite the growing frequency and sophistication of attacks targeting industrial systems, many business leaders continue to underestimate their OT cyber risk exposure. The report finds that indirect losses, often unaccounted for in traditional models, impact up to 70% of OT-related breaches, with worst-case scenarios estimating as much as $329.5 billion in global financial risk.

Executives are increasingly accountable for managing cyber risks, but many still lack a clear line of sight into OT environments, said Robert M. Lee, CEO and Co-founder, Dragos Inc. The ability to quantify OT cyber risk and correlate it to potential financial losses is a game-changer. This report fills a critical gap by translating OT security into measurable financial risk and assessing controls aimed at mitigating that risk.

Key Findings from the Report:

In a severe but plausible scenario, a so-called 1-in-250-year tail event, global OT cyber losses could reach $329.5 billion with $172.4 billion from OT-related business interruption.

The three OT cybersecurity controls most correlated with risk reduction are: Incident Response Planning (up to 18.5% average risk reduction) Defensible Architecture (up to 17.09%) ICS Network Visibility and Monitoring (up to 16.47%)



These findings are based on a decade of breach and insurance claims data analysed by the Marsh McLennan Cyber Risk Intelligence Center (CRIC), one of the worlds largest repositories of cyber risk data. The statistical modeling, based on over tens of thousands of simulations, is the first to quantify how specific OT cybersecurity controls correlate to financial loss reduction.

Financial Context: The Missing Link Needed to Quantify OT Risk

Despite rising attack frequency and increasing board-level concern, organisations across sectors have struggled to manage and insure OT cyber risk effectively. The report identifies three core barriers that continue to hinder progress:

Undefined Financial Impact: Until now, most organisations lacked data to quantify the financial exposure tied specifically to OT cyber incidents. No Clear ROI on OT Security: Without a way to measure the effectiveness of controls, security investments have been difficult to justify. Prioritisation Paralysis: OT teams have lacked independent benchmarks to guide which controls matter mostand why.

For years, organisations have lacked the context needed to understand OT cyber risk in business and financial terms, said Mark Stacey, VP, Risk and Resilience Solutions at Dragos. This study fills that gap, linking real-world financial data with OT-specific security controls. It gives executives, risk managers, and insurers the shared language and framework theyve been missing to prioritise, invest, and insure with confidence.

A New Era of OT Risk Modeling

The report marks one of the first large-scale attempts to map the SANS ICS Five ICS Cybersecurity Critical Controls to tangible risk reduction percentages based on real-world insurance claims and industry data.

With the rise in OT-targeting malware and regulatory changes like the SECs 8-K cyber incident reporting rules, the need for defensible and insurer-recognised OT security frameworks has never been greater. This study helps correlate the use of SANS Five Critical Controls to enabling security and compliance teams to prioritize investments that demonstrably reduce financial exposure.

This report offers new visibility into the financial modeling of OT risk and provides insurers and OT operators alike with the confidence to take action, said Scott Stransky, Head of the Cyber Risk Intelligence Center at Marsh McLennan. By statistically linking controls to measurable risk reduction, organisations can better evaluate client readiness and make more accurate, risk-based coverage decisions.
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By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Five men have been arrested and cannabis worth approximately 579,790 (500,000) seized during a series of police searches.

Detectives from the PSNIs Organised Crime Branch made the arrests as they carried out searches of five addresses on Wednesday.

The searches were carried out with the PSNIs Tactical Support Group officers.

Five men aged 33, 34, 38, 41 and 43 were arrested for a variety of offences, including cultivation of cannabis.

The Organised Crime Branch said it had co-ordinated a day of action as a result of a probe into the activities of criminal gangs.

It said it had located and dismantled four cannabis cultivations within properties in Templepatrick, Coleraine, Tandragee and Lurgan.

Each location was described as expertly set up, containing rooms full of plants at various stages of growth.

Detective Inspector Kelly, from the Organised Crime Branch, said: Clearly there was a conveyor belt supply of drugs being produced, with regular harvests across the properties, which would likely be sold on to other criminal gangs.

The drugs recovered have a potential street value of approximately 500,000.

A fifth property in Newry was searched and the occupant located and arrested by Roads Policing officers in Portadown this morning. Four vehicles have also been seized by detectives.

Det Insp Kelly added: Organised crime gangs fund their criminality and lifestyle at the expense of others. Damage is caused to properties.

Vulnerable people caught up in drug misuse suffer, and it creates a pressure on families and the health service.

Im grateful to local people and communities for their continued support, and Im keen to reiterate and appeal for anyone with information on this incident or drug supply in general to contact us on 101.
Oasis fever has officially hit the country as the Gallagher brothers will land in Dublin for their gigs this weekend.

Liam and Noel will perform in front of sold-out Croke Park crowds on Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17.

Furthermore, the Manchester-born brothers have Mayo connections through their mother, Peggy.

Peggy, who hails from Charlestown, emigrated to Manchester at the age of eighteen before she raised her sons.

The brothers have travelled through Ireland West Airport Knock on a number of occasions, explained Donal Healy, who is Head of Marketing at the airport.

"They have always been extremely courteous with their fans and staff at the airport," Donal told Midwest Radio .

"Liam travelled through the airport about five years ago, and there is a famous clip of him joining in on a local trad session in Charlestown.

"We're keeping an eye out here, and we're expecting big traffic on our Manchester and Liverpool services due to people coming over to see the concerts.

"They have a lot of relations in Charlestown; they spent a good bit of their youth in the area, so I'd like to think they might take a visit. It would be lovely to see them come West; there would be great excitement."
(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)



Brighten up your summer evenings with a nice stroll at a park less than an hour away from Misawa Air.

Atago Park in Noheji Town is hosting Hikari Monogatari (the story of light), a night illumination through Aug. 31.

Though night illuminations are usually a winter attraction, the park is bringing some of that seasonal magic to light up the steamy summer.

The illuminations feature 150,000 LED lights with more than 10 different color hues spanning an 8,000 square meter area. The theme is Noheji Towns four seasons, including springs cherry blossoms, the blue sea of Mutsu Gulf, the autumn leaves of Mt. Eboshidake and the snowy scenery seen in the town during the winter.

Appreciate the intricate lights from above on the observation tower. Yoshihito Morita, a Misawa Commissary employee, recently visited the park and said the view was fantastic. Morita also recommends you bring bug spray to dodge the mosquitoes.

According to Morita, students from the local Noheji High School conrtributed to the illumination project. Visitors can also see the towns symbols featured in the display including the Kitamaebune and Joyano stone nightlights. These symbols are a call back to Noheji Towns start as a port town and a thriving hub for traditional Kitamaebune cargo ships running from Osaka to Hokkaido throughout the Edo and Meiji Eras (1603-1912).

Kitamaebune in Noheji (Photo by Yoshihito Morita)



The illumination also has a photo contest and visitors can also enjoy snacks from food trucks there scheduled for Aug. 15-16, 23 and 30-31.

Atago Park is only a 50-minute drive from Misawa, so brighten up your summer evenings with some beautiful illuminations!

From Aug. 21-24, the town will also hold the Noheji Gion Matsuri festival at the port and other locations within the town. Make plans to check out a replica of the gigantic Kitamaebune cargo ship Michinoku-maru at the festival.

(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)

(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)

(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)

(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)

(Photo by Yoshihito Morita)



Noheji Illumination Hikari Story 2025

Location: Atago Park (56 Teranosawa, Noheji Town, Kamikita-gun, Aomori Prefecture)

Dates: Until Aug. 31

Hours: 7-9 p.m.

Admission: Free

Website: Noheji Illumination Light Story 2025 [August 8th - 31st] | Announcement | Noheji Town Tourism Association

Phone: 0175-64-2111 (Noheji Town Office)

Noheji Gion Matsuri
(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)



Throughout the hot summer months, you may notice locals wearing colorful yukata kimonos on their way to their neighborhood parks, shrines and temples. The gatherings featuring lanterns, food booths, games and music are called Bon Odori.

Bon Odori is a summer tradition observed throughout Japan mostly in late July to mid-August as a way to welcome late ancestors whose spirits are said to visit during Bon period.

If you live out in town, you might have the opportunity to help set one up or work at a food booth, as each town or community association organizes its festival.

In the morning of the festival day, townspeople set up a yagura stage, food and game booths. They also decorate the parks with chochin lanterns with the names of people who contributed to the event.

As the sun sets, the lanterns illuminate the venue and residents and visitors gather. Everyone is welcome at these festivals, so dont be shy.

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)



Taiko drummers and well-trained dancers in summer kimonos perform on stage. Youll notice that people will start dancing around the stage. You should join in. Even if you dont know how to dance, dancers on stage and around you will show you how to perform the traditional moves.

Enjoy all of the delicious festival foods like yakisoba, yakitori grilled meat skewers, kakigori shaved ice, cold beer and soft drinks. You will have to pay for your food and drink, but its not expensive and the money is used to help pay for the festival.

Yakisoba (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)

Yakisoba (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)

Kakigori shaved ice (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)

Cotton Candy (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)

Beer and soft drinks (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)

Kingyo-sukui (goldfish scooping) (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi / Stripes Japan)



And for the kids (old and young), there are game booths where you can enjoy kingyo-sukui (goldfish scooping) and shateki (a shooting game). If you have kids, theyll have a blast.

Although todays Bon Odori festivals only last a few hours, when they first started hundreds of years ago, they were overnight events held to entertain ancestors souls, which were believed to be staying with their family for the Bon period (around July 15 following the lunar calendar). According to the lunar calendar, the 15th of each month, there is a full moon, which allows people to dance overnight under the bright moonlight.

Nowadays, the festivals are held throughout July and August, depending on each communitys schedule.

Why not enjoy the summer of Japan in your town with a traditional Bon Odori festival?
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Gov. Gavin Newsom's political ambitions have reached a new low. In his efforts to look like a "fighter" ahead of a potential run for the presidency in 2028, he's willing to ignore democratic rules in pursuit of political aims, setting aside the state's independent redistricting system to counter Texas Republicans' proposed partisan gerrymander. Newsom and his allies want to maximize the number of California Democrats elected to Congress in next year's midterm elections.

In 2008 and 2010, California voters passed ballot initiatives that gave the power to draw the state's legislative and congressional district lines to the California Citizens Redistricting Commission, a 14-person independent body composed of five Democrats, five Republicans and four people who are registered with neither of the two major parties. Potential commissioners go through an extensive vetting and selection process (which the state Legislature participates in) and are prohibited from many forms of political activism, including donating to candidates, running for office or working for elected officials.

Since the latest redistricting, in 2021  triggered as usual by the constitutionally mandated decennial census  the map crafted by the commission has survived legal and political challenges, and the current districts are set to be in place through the next round of redistricting in 2031.

Now Newsom wants to prematurely redraw the lines and craft his own partisan gerrymander for the November 2026 midterm elections, wresting control of the process away from the commission and giving it instead to the Democratic majority in the state Legislature. Last week, Newsom confirmed that he will call a special election to get voter approval for this end-run around the commission, but even dressed up with a vote, this is cynical politics, not democracy, at work.

Newsom's excuse is the sudden partisan redistricting Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and President Trump are backing to increase the number of Republicans elected to Congress from that state, and in turn, to enhance the party's chances to retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, D-Hollister, calls the Texas action a "Trumpian power grab," and Newsom assails it as the "rigging of the system by the president of the United States." (Recent public opinion research conducted by Newsom's pollster revealed that the public is more likely to support a California redistricting maneuver if the fight has Trump, not Texas, as the central villain.)

But two wrongs don't make a right.

A key difference between the proposed line redrawing in Texas and the California plan is that the former, however brazen, is legal and precedented, while the latter specifically contravenes California law and the expressed will of the state's voters. In Texas, legislators are entrusted with drawing district lines, and a mid-decade partisan gerrymander they executed in 2003, again to boost Republican representation in the U.S. House, was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court (except for one district whose lines violated the Voting Rights Act).

But California voters explicitly placed the drawing of district lines in the hands of the independent citizens' commission to take politicians out of the process. Commissioners draw district lines based on numerous factors, including laws, judicial decisions and population shifts. They're bound by a basic rule: District lines cannot be drawn to purposefully benefit a specific party or candidate. And all the commission's deliberations must happen in public. The maps they've devised have been criticized by both Democrats and Republicans; and that's one of the many reasons why California voters entrusted the commission with this important power.

If Newsom gets his way, California's districts for the 2026 midterm will ensure the election of as few Republicans as possible. Recent reports suggest that his gerrymander will mean Republicans win only four out of 52 House seats (9%), compared with the current California delegation, which includes nine Republicans (17%). Republicans make up about 25% of California's registered voters and statewide Republican candidates have won roughly 40% of the vote over the last few election cycles.

The fact that Newsom's plan returns the power to redistrict to the citizens commission after the midterms makes it no less a subversion of the democratically expressed will of California's voters. To add insult to injury, the cost of the special election to ratify the scheme is estimated to be about $60 million in Los Angeles County alone, with statewide costs likely exceeding $200 million.

By bending electoral rules in service of their own political interests, Newsom and California Democrats become no better than Abbott and Texas Republicans. And Newsom's hypocrisy strains the credibility of his argument that Trump and his allies are diminishing democracy.

If Newsom moves forward with his cynical plan, Californians will at least have the power to reject it at the ballot box this November. Voters should reinforce their commitment to minimizing the role of partisanship and politics in redistricting, and to the independent California Citizens Redistricting Commission.

_____

Lanhee J. Chen is an American public policy fellow at the Hoover Institution. He was a Republican candidate for California controller in 2022.

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A Texas woman is suing a major supplier of abortion pills by mail and a former sexual partner, who she alleges terminated her pregnancy by lacing her drink with medication he obtained from the group.

In the complaint, filed tis week in Texas federal court by a prominent antiabortion attorney, the woman alleges that her ex-partner bought the pills from Aid Access, a nonprofit based in Europe, then pressured her to take them for weeks in the spring, even though she told him she did not want an abortion.

Aid Access is one of the world's largest abortion pill suppliers. Since 2023, U.S. doctors affiliated with the group have been able to mail the medication to patients in all 50 states under the protection of "shield" laws designed to safeguard providers from prosecution in states with abortion bans.

The wrongful-death lawsuit alleges that Aid Access violated the federal Comstock Act, an 1873 law that bans the mailing of "obscene" materials, including those related to abortion.

Aid Access did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

The filing also accuses the woman's ex-partner of violating Texas law, which bans most abortions after six weeks and mandates that legal abortions be performed by a licensed physician.

Texas has emerged as a hotbed of novel legal challenges to abortion pills, now the most common way to end a pregnancy. So far, legal efforts trying to halt access to medication abortion have failed. Last month, a Texas man filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against a doctor in California whom he accused of mailing abortion pills that his girlfriend used to terminate her pregnancy.

The attorney behind the case is Jonathan Mitchell, who is known for counseling private citizens on suing people who facilitate abortions - and who designed the Texas law that enables such cases. Until Monday, Mitchell had filed lawsuits only on behalf of men who wanted to bring legal action against people who helped their partners have an abortion.

Mitchell is now representing the woman who says she did not consent to taking the abortion pills, and he declined to comment to The Washington Post.

Monday's complaint appears to be the first time a woman has filed a wrongful-death abortion lawsuit in federal court.

The details paint a picture of two people who conceived and fought over how to proceed - with devastating results, according to the complaint.

"Some of this is having that really sympathetic case and saying, 'Look how irresponsible the defendants were, that they were willing to give whomever these medications and that person took it and used it in nefarious ways,'" said Carmel Shachar, a law professor at Harvard Law School.

The woman's former partner declined to comment.

The pair lived next door to each other in Corpus Christi, Texas, where the ex-partner was stationed as he trained to become a Marine Corps pilot, the complaint says.

About six months ago, the woman, who has three children from a previous marriage, suspected she was pregnant and texted him asking what he would want to do, according to the lawsuit. He suggested an abortion, according to the text screenshots the woman included in her complaint.

On Feb. 4, she took a pregnancy test that was positive. The next morning, her ex-partner sent her a text saying he would "get the 2 drugs needed to discontinue the pregnancy," according to the complaint. The woman told him to "stop right there," the lawsuit states.

On Feb. 11, he allegedly told her that the abortion pills had arrived.

According to the lawsuit, he repeatedly brought the abortion pills to the woman's home, but she refused to take them. He allegedly tried to pressure her into taking them for more than a month. During that time, he showed her a receipt for the pills he bought from Aid Access, the complaint alleges.

In early April, he suggested that he and the woman spend time together in a "trust building night," the complaint says. He allegedly proposed that he would make "warm relaxing tea instead of alcohol," and the pair could catch up on a show they had been watching together. She agreed.

She did so, the lawsuit says, because she "viewed this as a last-ditch opportunity to get on reasonable terms."

On April 5, he visited the woman's home and made her hot chocolate, according to the complaint. Within 30 minutes of drinking it, she began "hemorrhaging and cramping," the lawsuit states.

In one text to her ex-partner later that night, she wrote, "I am gushing blood," it adds.

Ultimately, she went to the emergency room and lost her pregnancy at about eight weeks, according to the lawsuit. She later turned over pill bottles that she believed contained the remainder of the medication that her ex-partner gave her to Corpus Christi police. When asked about the alleged incident, a spokesperson for the department said Corpus Christi police had "a few reports involving those individuals" but no active investigations as of Monday afternoon.

The pill bottles included only the prescriber's initials, photos in the complaint show. Rather than naming an individual clinician, as in other abortion pill cases, the woman's lawsuit instead targets Aid Access and its founder, Rebecca Gomperts.

Since the Roe v. Wade was overturned, abortion advocates have worried that conservatives would use the Comstock Act as a legal vehicle to shut down abortion pill mailing, a network propelled by Aid Access. Attempts from conservative attorneys and state prosecutors, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), to legally target providers affiliated with Aid Access, which is incorporated in Austria, and other physicians who practice under shield laws have stalled thus far.

The new effort from Mitchell, the woman's attorney, couples the Comstock Act with state law, as he did last month in the wrongful-death lawsuit against the California doctor, which also cited the federal law.

"The real goal here is to use Comstock to cut off the mailing of these prescriptions," Shachar, the law professor, said.

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A major nuclear power plant in northern France temporarily shut down because of the presence of a "massive and unforeseeable" swarm of jellyfish inside its cooling system.

Electricite de France, the national electric utility company that operates the Gravelines nuclear power plant, said three reactors automatically shut down Sunday night and a fourth on Monday morning after jellyfish appeared in the filtration drums of the plant's water pumping stations, which it said are "located in the non-nuclear part of the facilities." This means all of the plant's reactors were nonoperational as of Tuesday, because its remaining two reactors were previously shut for maintenance.

The automatic shutdown "had no impact on the safety of the facilities, the safety of personnel, or the environment," EDF said.

The French utility said its teams were working to safely restart the reactors. Laura Mandin, a spokeswoman for EDF, said in an emailed statement Tuesday that the production units were expected to restart in the coming days, adding that it would be "a gradual process."

Cathy Lucas, an associate professor in marine biology at the University of Southampton in Britain, said EDF's report of a "massive" presence of jellyfish could be a reference to a jellyfish bloom - when a specific area suddenly experiences a big increase in its jellyfish population after the gelatinous invertebrates begin to reproduce more quickly or find an environment that favors their survival.

Jellyfish are highly adaptable. Many species of jellyfish grow rapidly when the water is warm and in a specific range of salinity. This summer's heat wave in Europe - with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in parts of the continent - has probably created ideal conditions for certain types of jellyfish to reproduce more rapidly and in higher numbers, Lucas said.

Other factors promoting jellyfish blooms include overfishing, which helps eliminate many of the jellyfish's competitors and predators, leaving more food for them, said Lucas.

When the weather is warm and the sea is calm, jellyfish tend to float closer to the surface of the water, Lucas added - and because they are weak swimmers, once they form a bloom, it is difficult for them to swim away. This could explain how jellyfish in the North Sea could have gotten sucked into the systems at Gravelines, she added.

Jellyfish forced a shutdown at the Torness nuclear plant in Scotland in 2011 and at the Oskarshamn plant in Sweden in 2013, among other incidents. In both cases, the shutdown and cleanup lasted a few days.

The Gravelines nuclear power plant is on the coast of the North Sea, about halfway between Calais and Dunkirk in northern France, and uses seawater to cool its reactors. The water is filtered through large drums designed to capture fine particles before being processed through pumping stations. Typically, the filters help stop sea life and other marine elements from getting into the pumping stations.

Ronan Tanguy, a nuclear engineer at the World Nuclear Association, told the BBC that the jellyfish's gelatinous bodies may have allowed them to "evade the first set of filters then get caught in the secondary drum system." He said the shutdown would have been automatically triggered for safety when the blockage prevented the systems from pumping enough water. He told the BBC that the incident was a "non-nuclear event" and more a "nuisance" for employees to clean up.

Mandin said EDF does not know the species of jellyfish involved in the incident.

The Gravelines plant has six pressurized water reactors that started operating between 1980 and 1985. Together, they produced about 32.7 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2024, equivalent to 9 percent of France's nuclear power generation, according to EDF.

The plant generates enough power to meet up to 70 percent of the Hauts-de-France region's electricity needs, EDF says.

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Migrant families run away from a charge by National Guard troops to break up a caravan in southern Mexico, October 29, 2020 [Photo: National Human Rights Commission of Mexico, CNDH]

The arrest of Luis Rey Garcia Villagran, a prominent defender of immigrant rights and longtime organizer of migrant caravans through Mexico, marks a major escalation in the assault on democratic rights by the government of President Claudia Sheinbaum and its collaboration with the fascistic US administration of Donald Trump.

The timing is unmistakable: Federal agents swooped in on Garcia as he left a public meeting held in a park last Tuesday in final preparations for the departure of another migrant caravan the following day from the southernmost city of Tapachula, Chiapas. Significantly, the military took part in the operation to arrest him.

Despite the arrest, approximately 300 migrants departed Wednesday en route to Monterrey in northern Mexico. Marching behind the banners Exodus for Justice and Migration is not a Crime, the caravan combined the protection and access to aid facilitated by numbers with a protest against Sheinbaums collaboration with Trumps assault on migrants, as well as delays and denials of asylum claims within Mexico.

Caravan participants include entire families, children and elderly from across South and Central America, the Caribbean and Africa, with many telling the media that they have spent months seeking to sort out their immigration situation in Mexico.

This is the first caravan where migrants state as their aim reaching and settling in cities within Mexico, apparently having given up for now on their original goal of crossing the US border.

On Monday, the caravan had reached the city of Escuintla, where they rejected an attempt by the National Migration Institute (INM) to disband the caravan by offering to take them in buses ostensibly to shelters. The migrants easily saw through the threadbare tactic to divide and detain them, knowing that in previous cases the INM has sent migrants back south away from their destination or deported them outright.

If you want to help us, just give us permission to go to Mexico City or Monterrey, here where we are, we dont want to go to shelters, one migrant told El Universal.

President Sheinbaum commented on the arrest of Garcia Villagran on Wednesday. Interrupting a reporters question, she delivered what amounted to a verdict before any trial: He is not an activist. He had an arrest warrant and is linked to human trafficking.

Federal authorities have accused Garcia Villagran of involvement in organized crime, human trafficking, and using his NGO as a front to traffic migrants and potentially drugs. These frame-up accusations are aimed at intimidating any opposition to the Sheinbaum administrations deepening and servile cooperation with Trumps fascist onslaught against migrants.

In 2022, Garcia Villagran, a trained lawyer who worked for the judiciary, was arrested briefly on similar charges, amid baseless claims by prosecutors that he charges migrants and puts them in more peril by organizing caravans.

In 1997, he served a 12-year prison sentence for kidnapping, after an initial 40-year prison sentence.

It is striking how few reports even mention the outcome or background of his case or the work carried out by his organization in the corporate medias malicious attempt to justify his most recent detention. Human rights organizations signed a statement denouncing the detention and reporting that several news reporters said that their corporate bosses gave them instructions not to contradict the presidents official version.

In 2003, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights accepted a complaint filed by Garcia Villagrans former wife charging that police tortured him into confessing to these crimes and that he was deprived of medical treatment and kept incommunicado. The report indicates that physical abuse led him to lose sight in his right eye, following a recent surgery.

Amnesty International also published a report explaining that police blindfolded him, tied him to a tree, and began punching him in the back and striking him with a knife in various parts of his body. He was taken to the police station, where they put him in a tank full of water and tied him to a pipe with his hands at shoulder height.

After being denied a lawyer and being repeatedly beaten, he was threatened with being disappeared, referring to the repression tactic used by Latin American police state regimes, including the Mexican, carrying out extra-judicial executions and then concealing the remains and the fate of their victimsa practice now being echoed by the Trump administration in its disappearing of immigrants into foreign jails.

After freeng Garcia Villagran in December 2017, the right-wing administration of Enrique Pena Nieto felt compelled to offer him a public apology.

For years, he has provided support to migrants crossing Mexico as founder and leader of the NGO Centro de Dignificacion Humana AC. The organization has provided legal guidance and humanitarian assistance to thousands fleeing violence, poverty and oppression throughout Central America and beyond in hope of finding safety and a decent life in the United States.

He had become particularly outspoken about the corruption of the Mexican immigration authorities and business sectors, as well as their ties to organized crime. As a result, he faced numerous death threats and two attacks.

The caravans themselves are not a plot or political conspiracy, but rather a phenomenon that emerged in 2018 as the outcome of grinding poverty, state repression and gang violence throughout the region, driving families, women and children into a desperate search for security and a future.

Now, Sheinbaums administration justifies Garcia Villagrans arrest with an aged warrant for traffickinga common tactic used to tar those who resist anti-immigrant clampdowns.

Garcias arrest can only be understood in the broader context of Sheinbaums embrace of militarized border repression in direct obedience to the demands of the Trump administration. In February 2025, under threat of punishing US tariffs, Sheinbaum struck a deal with Trump to deploy an additional 10,000 National Guard troops to key border cities. Far from an isolated incident, this concession followed repeated episodes since 2019 where Mexican forces blocked, detained and violently dispersed migrant caravans under US pressure.

This militarized crackdown has frequently turned lethal. One of the most notorious recent episodes occurred in October 2024, when Mexican soldiers opened fire on a crowded truck near Huixtla, Chiapas, killing six migrants and injuring 10 others, some fatally, as they attempted to flee a military patrol. Such tragedies are not anomalies, but the systemic outcome of a strategy that treats human beings as threats and border regions as zones of military occupation.

The success of these fascistic measures is now being trumpeted by both US and Mexican officials. New Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data show historic lows in daily apprehensionsjust 88 migrants detained one day in July, the lowest figure in the agencys history. Monthly totals for border encounters have also plummeted to previously unseen levels, which is not the result of any genuine resolution of the causes of migration, but due to the overwhelming climate of fear and the brutal enforcement actions carried out on both sides of the border.

Much of this success is owed to mass detentions and new sites like the so-called Alligator Alcatraz detention camp in the Florida Everglades, which has already become a site of rapid deportations and gross abuses. Such facilities amount to concentration camps set up to terrorize and contain immigrants, with scant due process or oversight.

Sheinbaums nominally left-nationalist Morena party has not only gone out of its way to deploy the security apparatus against refugees, trampling Mexicos own constitutional and international law. Her administration is mirroring the fascist White House in taking calculated steps to exploit the criminalization of migrants to justify preparations for repression of social opposition and police-state dictatorship.

Launched as part of the broader Public Security National Strategy, the Sheinbaum administrations latest moves include the National Guard Constitutional Reform, rushed through Congress, which upgrades the force into a federalized branch of the military, with sweeping new powers for warrantless investigation and intelligence gathering. This is a blueprint for martial law.

The new laws also target the very foundation of public security, giving even greater superpowers to Omar Garcia Harfuchs Security Ministry through reforms to the General Law for the National Systems of Public Security, Investigation and Intelligence. These enable preventative and repressive actions against any group that the state deems a threatincluding labor activists, journalists and social movements.

These reforms are directed above all against the Mexican working class. In the context of staggering inequality across Mexico and the mounting crisis of global capitalism, the ruling class seeks nothing less than a permanent state of emergency to guarantee the flow of cheap labor and secure supply chains for international capital, all at the expense of basic social and democratic rights.
ICE thugs violently detain Amanda Trebach [Photo: Union del Barrio]

On Friday, August 8, federal agents violently arrested Registered Nurse Amanda Trebach outside the gates of Terminal Island in San Pedro, Los Angelesa Coast Guard base utilized by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as a staging hub for immigration raids across California.

Video footage shows Trebach being thrown face-down to the ground, her head pressed down by the knee of a masked agent, before being forced into an unmarked black van by at least six unidentified men in tactical gear. Her backpack was seized from her vehicle without a warrant.

Eyewitnesses reported she had been monitoring immigration enforcement activities with the community group Union del Barrio as part of a peace patrol documenting what she and others described as abductions by masked officers.

CBPs official account accused Trebach of impeding and obstructing federal law enforcement, claiming she jumped in front of moving vehicles, hit the car with her signs and fists while yelling obscenities, and physically blocked and impeded CBP from completing their duties.

Early reports, including those from National Nurses United (NNU), referred to her detention by federal or ICE agents, but CBP later confirmed their direct involvement. She was initially accused of assaulting a federal vehicle.

Eyewitness statements, video, and the absence of any charges directly contradict CBPs claims. Cynthia Avina of Union del Barrio stated that Trebach was simply holding a poster when she was accosted by CBP agents.

They charged at her, and she dropped the poster. The agents are claiming that she attacked them with that poster, and we know that that is not true, Avina told ABC 7. They are making false claims to try to intimidate us, to try to stop us from doing the work that were doing.

Trebach, a US citizen and former member of the California Nurses Association (an NNU affiliate), was held for over a day and released without criminal charges on Saturday evening, August 9. The NNU had called for her immediate release and a full dismissal of all charges.

On Friday, community members protested outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles during her detention, demanding her freedom. In response the Los Angeles Police Department declared an unlawful assembly and arrested over a dozen people.

While NNU celebrated the outcome as a testament to the power of organizing resistance and solidarity, the arrest is in fact a warning shot from the state. It signals an escalation of efforts to criminalize protest and suppress any monitoring of immigration raids.

Terminal Islandoff limits to the general public and heavily militarizedis one of the key operational hubs for immigration enforcement in Southern California. The decision to target and violently detain a nurse participating in peaceful observation was deliberate, intended to intimidate others who might do the same.

Large sections of nurses are themselves immigrants or work side-by-side with undocumented colleagues and patients. Many live in households directly affected by the threat of raids, deportations, and family separation. In Los Angeles, one every five people is either undocumented or has an undocumented family member.

For these workers, opposition to immigration repression is not a matter of electoral calculation but of survival and solidarity. Their class position compels them toward unity with immigrant workers, documented or not, against the machinery of state violence.

This stands in sharp contrast to the outlook of the political establishment, including its so-called progressive wing, fully implicated in the climate that enables such arrests. The alignment between Senator Bernie Sanders and the NNU bureaucracy exposes this collusion. NNU, the largest union of registered nurses in the US, has repeatedly endorsed Sanders in his presidential campaigns.

Sanders recent public statementspraising Donald Trumps crackdown on fentanyl, calling for stronger borders, and insisting I dont think its appropriate to have people coming across the border illegallydo not represent some unfortunate nuance in an otherwise humanitarian position. They reveal fundamental agreement with the framework of repression, the defense of national borders and the reactionary narrative of legality that criminalizes undocumented workers.

The NNU bureaucracy, while posturing as a defender of immigrants, adapts itself to this same nationalist framework. It condemns the most egregious outrages but refuses to directly challenge the existence and legitimacy of the border enforcement apparatus. Its official responses frame the issue in terms of constitutional rights and procedural overreach, leaving untouched the bipartisan system of repression that operates with or without due process.

The dismantling of the Sensitive Locations policy under the Trump administrationwhich removed restrictions on immigration enforcement at hospitals, schools, and churcheshas greatly intensified the danger.

Healthcare facilities and personnel are now fair game for surveillance, raids, and intimidation. Trebachs arrest, as a registered nurse, underscores the readiness of the state to target workers as a whole and amplify the repression of basic democratic rights.

It is no accident that CBP and ICE operations are increasingly staged from military installations like Terminal Island. The integration of civilian immigration enforcement with military facilities and tactics reflects the broader authoritarian trajectory of the American state. Unmarked vans, masked agents, and warrantless seizures are methods tested in the suppression of immigrant workers and destined to be turned against the working class as a whole.

In the most open step yet toward establishing a presidential dictatorship, Donald Trump has declared a state of emergency in Washington D.C., placed the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control, and mobilized nearly a thousand soldiers from the D.C. National Guard to patrol the streets. Cloaking this action in the fraudulent claim of a crime wave in the capital, Trump is placing the city under direct military rule.

The administration has already floated the deployment of combat troops, citing as precedent the militarization of Los Angeless MacArthur Park earlier this summer, where 500 heavily armed US Marines backed mass immigration raids and the rounding up of immigrant workers for deportation.

In Los Angeles and across the country, protests against militarized raids and Trebachs arrest reveal the genuine and strong opposition to the draconian repression of immigrants and democratic rights among the working population.

But without a clear political perspective, such protests are contained and dissipated. The union bureaucracy and allied organizations seek to confine resistance within safe, legalistic channels that pose no threat to the institutions of capitalist rule. Appeals to Democratic politicians, who are themselves co-architects of immigration repression, serve only to disarm the working class.

The defense of immigrant rights cannot be entrusted to the Democratic Party, the Sanders wing of its progressive faction, or the trade union apparatus. These forces are committed to defending the capitalist nation-state, which by its nature enforces borders, criminalizes migration and divides workers along national lines.

The alternative is the independent political mobilization of the working class, uniting native-born and immigrant workers across borders in a common struggle against the capitalist system. Such a movement must reject the framework of legal and illegal immigration entirely, recognizing the right of all workers to live and work wherever they choose, free from harassment, detention, or deportation.

Amanda Trebachs arrest exemplifies the escalating repression that will accompany deepening inequality and growing opposition to capitalism. The fight for socialism is the only viable path to end immigrant persecution and guarantee full equality and freedom of movement for all.
South Korean workers at the online retailer and delivery company Coupang are planning to hold a one-day strike Friday following a similar walkout on August 1. Workers at the company and throughout the logistics industry are underpaid and have long faced unsafe working conditions and brutal hours.

Coupang is a South Korean company similar to Amazon, which in addition to providing online sales, also operates food delivery services, mobile payment services, and online streaming. It is a regular part of the daily lives of many South Koreans and also has a growing presence in Taiwan.

Coupang workers protest outside company headquarters, August 2025 [Photo: Korean Public Service and Transport Workers Union]

Mirroring companies like Amazon, Coupang exploits its workers by enforcing oppressive conditions in fulfillment centers and rapid, round-the-clock delivery. In 2024, Coupang posted record sales of 41.29 trillion won ($US29.73 billion).

Workers involved in the strike are affiliated with the Coupang Logistics Center branch of the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers Union (KPTU), which is the largest union within the so-called militant Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU). In a strike authorization vote, 88 percent of workers approved the strike with an 82 percent turn-out rate.

The initial walkout on August 1 included a demonstration in front of the company headquarters in Jamsil, Seoul. According to the union, approximately a thousand workers from both the day and night shifts are taking part in the strikes, though Coupang as a whole employs 99,881 people as of last year.

The union has put forward requests that include a guaranteed 20-minute break within a two-hour period during heatwaves, the expansion of air conditioning and rest facilities, allowing workers to use their phones, raising the minimum wage level, and collective bargaining between the union and the company.

The union has pointed out that their requests include pledges Coupang made during a National Assembly hearing in January. The union stated that the company has instead continued to focus on speed and volume, which has led to accumulated fatigue and dissatisfaction among workers.

Fridays walkout comes as workers deal with a summer heatwave in which temperatures have reached record highs. Throughout July and August, heat advisories have been a near-daily occurrence. In July, temperatures often broke 40 degrees Celsius around the country. Temperatures in facilities can reach well into the 30s, with breaks not mandated by law until the heat reaches 33 degrees. Even then the company refuses to grant breaks.

However, neither the KPTU nor its Coupang branch are waging a genuine struggle to defend workers. Instead, the union has called limited walkouts to allow workers to let off steam while reducing the impact on the company as much as possible. At the same time, it is attempting to give itself the appearance of fighting for better conditions.

This includes holding various demonstrations in front of Coupang headquarters both last week and this week. Today, the Coupang Countermeasures Committee, which is affiliated with the KPTU, has called for a boycott of Rocket Delivery, Coupangs express delivery service. Rather than call for a continuous strike that includes drivers, the union ensures that disruptions to the delivery service are kept to a minimum.

The issues facing workers are not new. Jeong Dong-heon, the head of the Coupang Logistics Center branch stated recently, Weve been negotiating with Coupang Fulfillment Services for four years since August 2021, but due to managements apathy, no collective agreement has been reached. In other words, the issues that workers face have been ongoing for years. Yet the response from the union is to stage limited, one-day strikes that will ultimately do nothing to resolve the situation.

In fact, workers at both Coupang and at other logistics companies have regularly staged protests and walkouts during this period. Knowing it has nothing to fear from the unions, Coupangs response has been to use its profits to pursue various investments including automating logistics facilities to enforce speed-ups.

The KPTU has been at the center of major sellouts, including of a 16-day truckers strike at the end of 2022 that was called off after it began to have a major impact on big business including automotive and construction. Without any of the drivers demands being met, their union branch forced through a phony vote to end the strike.

The union ensures workers stay on the job despite Coupangs long track record of unsafe working conditions. Last year, a worker died at a Coupang fulfilment center in Gyeonggi Province on August 18. A month before that on July 18, a worker at a Coupang facility on Jeju Island also died. Both reportedly died from overwork.

Gwarosa, or death by overwork, is a serious issue in South Korea, where the condition is so prevalent it is legally recognized as a workplace accident when it occurs. Logistics workers are particularly affected. Workers suffer from heart attacks, strokes, or in some cases are driven to suicide. Similar situations exist in countries like Japan, where it is called karoshi, and in China, where it is known as the 996 work culture (9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week).

In an interview with the Korea Institute of Labor Safety and Health, Jeong Seong-yong, the head of the National Logistics Center of the KPTU, stated, In the past five years since the establishment of the Coupang Logistics Center branch in 2020, 19 people have died while working at Coupang, and 12 of them were working at night.

Other serious incidents of Coupangs neglect for safety include in June 2021 when a fire broke out at a Coupang warehouse in Icheon that burned for six days and killed a firefighter. Authorities stated that the buildings fire alarm system had been manually turned off when the fire began, causing a 20-minute delay in the sprinkler system activating.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Coupang forced workers to labor through an outbreak at its facilities. The unions did nothing to defend workers health at Coupang or any other company, instead collaborating with the government of Democrat President Moon Jae-in to keep workers on the job.

Whether it is in South Korea or any other country, companies like Coupang, with the aid of the unions, profit from what is in reality an industrial meat grinder. Workers must break free from the straitjacket imposed on them by the union bureaucrats and take the fight into their own hands and expand the struggle to other companies and industries on the basis of a socialist perspective.
The assassination of Al Jazeeras Anas al-Sharif in a targeted Israeli airstrike on a journalists tent outside Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on Sunday has provoked a wave of mass anger and condemnation around the globe.

The event is the latest in the series of US-backed Israeli war crimes in Gaza and is part of the campaign to silence those exposing to the world the reality of the genocide against Palestinians over the past 22 months.

As of Tuesday, Gazas Health Ministry reported that since October 7, 2023, 61,599 Palestinians have been killed, and 154,088 have been wounded. The recent increase includes those killed in ongoing attacks and a surge in deaths linked to malnutrition and the targeting of civilians seeking food aid. Since May 27, 2025 alone, at least 1,838 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to access aid, with over 13,409 injured in these incidents.

In the aftermath of the attack that killed al-Sharif, thousands of Palestinians filled the streets of Gaza to mourn his death. A funeral, held alongside those of his colleagues who were killed in the same assault, became an outpouring of collective grief and determination by Palestinians to fight the barbarism that has been relentlessly unleashed upon them.

Palestinians carry the body of Al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif, who, along with other journalists, was killed in a targeted Israeli airstrike, during his funeral outside Gaza City's Shifa hospital complex, Monday, August 11, 2025. [AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi]

Friends and family gave heart-rending accounts of Anass role as an outstanding representative of the Palestinian struggle against Zionism. One friend, holding back tears, told the press:

He gave his life to telling Gazas story to the world. By killing Anas, Israel wanted to silence all of us. But we will not be silenced; his truth will live on in us.

These sentiments were expressed in eulogies shared by mourners, who described the attack as a deliberate assault both on the press and on the Palestinian peoples right to be seen and heard.

In the days before his death, Anas al-Sharif had prepared a final, haunting statement to be released if he was killed.

Shared on social media after news of his assassination broke, al-Sharif wrote:

This is my will and my final message. If these words reach you, know that Israel has succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice. I have lived through pain in all its details, tasted suffering and loss many times, yet I never once hesitated to convey the truth as it is, without distortion or falsification. Do not forget Gaza.  And do not forget me in your sincere prayers for forgiveness and acceptance.

The international response to the murder has been one of condemnation. The United Nations Human Rights Office called the killings a grave breach of international humanitarian law and noted that over 240 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 2023.

Reporters Without Borders denounced the assassination, asserting, Israel is murdering the messengers. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) called the assault nothing less than the systematic elimination of the press and stressed in a statement:

Israel has a longstanding, documented pattern of accusing journalists of being terrorists without providing any credible proof.

Al Jazeera condemned the attack as a targeted assassination. Press freedom organizations demanded international investigations into the targeted killing and the imposition of sanctions on Israel for these repeated violations.

The facts of the assault are not in dispute. Late Sunday, as dusk fell over Gaza City, Israeli drones struck a clearly marked media tent in the compound of al-Shifa Hospital. Inside were six journalists, five were members of the Al Jazeera staff and one a freelancer.

Eyewitnesses described the sudden explosion, the rush to save lives as the tent burned, and their own narrow escape. We saw the drone circling. It struck suddenly. We pulled our brothers from the flames, but there was nothing to be done for most. One was still alive but died in our arms, recounted a surviving colleague.

Medical personnel from the hospital confirmed the deaths of all those inside the Al Jazeera tent, as well as a sixth journalist in a neighboring shelter. The six journalists killed in the airstrike were:

Anas al-Sharif (28, Gaza, Palestine): Senior correspondent for Al Jazeera Arabic, celebrated for frontline coverage throughout the war.

Mohammed Qreiqeh (33, Gaza, Palestine): Reporter for Al Jazeera Arabic, lost his mother to an Israeli assault earlier in the war.

Ibrahim Zaher (27, Gaza, Palestine): Cameraman and field video specialist for Al Jazeera, known for his courageous footage from conflict zones.

Moamen Aliwa (29, Gaza, Palestine): Cameraman with Al Jazeera, focused on documenting the humanitarian crisis.

Mohammed Noufal (24, Gaza, Palestine): Production assistant and fixer for Al Jazeera, played vital roles in logistics and reporting.

Mohammad al-Khaldi (31, Gaza, Palestine): Freelance reporter, known for contributing to multiple international outlets, including Qatari-based networks.

Anas Jamal Mahmoud Al-Sharif (   ) was born on December 3, 1996, in the Jabalia refugee camp in the north of the Gaza Strip, into a family of refugees originally displaced from Al-Majdal (now Ashkelon) in 1948. He grew up amid hardship as a child during the Second Intifada, a teenager under the Israeli blockade, and an adult faced with repeated wars.

He developed a passion for journalism and studied mass communication at Al-Aqsa University in Gaza, specializing in radio and television. He began his career volunteering at Al-Shamal Media Network before joining Al Jazeera Arabic as a correspondent in northern Gaza. He lived in Jabalia with his wife and two young children, often spending long stretches separated from his family due to the demands and risks of his work.

When the Israeli genocide began on October 7, 2023, al-Sharif quickly rose to national and international prominence. Although unknown before the war, his daily on-the-ground reports, often from the epicenter of conflict and destruction, brought the violence faced by Gazas civilians to millions around the world.

He documented Israeli airstrikes, starvation, the escalating humanitarian crisis, and the experiences of Palestinians under siege. Al Jazeera recruited him in December 2023 after his raw, social media coverage of the strikes in his hometown of Jabalia went viral.

In that same month, his father, Jamal al-Sharif, was killed in an Israeli airstrike on their family home, a strike that was said to be preceded by direct threats to Anas to stop reporting. A report by the Guardian in December 2024 said that Israeli forces, in a series of three major military offensives, completely destroyed the camp where 100,000 Palestinians had once lived.

At 28 years old, al-Sharif became identified by colleagues and observers as the only voice left in Gaza City, and he was lauded for his integrity and unwavering commitment to reporting the truth. He became known for his courage in broadcasting from areas under direct bombardment, while many international media organizations were denied access by Israeli authorities.

His reporting earned him and his Reuters team the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography, underscoring how his work provided the outside world with vital evidence of the reality in Gaza. He repeatedly faced threats from Israeli authorities, especially IDF accusations without evidence that he was a terrorist.

In the immediate aftermath of his death, Israels military issued a statement claiming Anas al-Sharif served as the head of a terrorist cell in the Hamas terrorist organization and was responsible for advancing rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and troops. However, no verifiable evidence was presented, and Israel has not accused any of the other journalists or staff that were killed in the attack.

These accusations have been rejected by Al Jazeera and by other journalists worldwide, who emphasized that Anas al-Sharif had steadfastly denied such links and that similar claims had long been used by Israel to justify violence and murder against media workers.

The massacre of the journalists occurred amidst the worsening catastrophe in Gaza. The daily tally climbs as airstrikes and artillery fire continue in residential neighborhoods, hospitals and aid distribution points. As the famine worsens, hundreds, including children, are perishing from hunger and lack of medical attention.

Israels strategy is not just mass killing but forced starvation, as international aid convoys are blocked or bombed, and Gazas population is corralled into humanitarian cities on the southern border near Egypt. These open-air concentration camps are serving as holding pens for Palestinians in advance of Israels plan to expel them entirely from Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Security Cabinet are now speaking openly of permanent annexation of Gaza and vowing to complete the job by eliminating any Palestinian presence in the central and northern zones of the Strip. This massive crime is being made possible through the direct and indirect support of the worlds imperialist powers, foremost among them the United States, Britain, France and Germany.

Billions in weaponry, political cover at the United Nations, and diplomatic backing for Israels policies of dispossession have come from Washington, London, Paris and Berlin. Recent token statements by these governments for a ceasefire or unhindered humanitarian access are a thin veil behind which they seek to hide their complicity.

Official condemnations of the latest excesses, references to humanitarian catastrophe and now the killing of five Al Jazeera journalists are accompanied by continued facilitation of Israels war machine: arms exports, intelligence sharing and votes in international forums to shield Tel Aviv from censure.

As the funerals are held and the people of Gaza mourn the silencing of al-Sharif, masses of people around the world are seeing that the war crimes of Israel and the imperialist powers are continuing and becoming more barbaric. A mass movement of the working class internationally is required to put an end to the world capitalist system responsible for Israels revival of the methods of ethnic cleansing and genocide that were used by the Nazis in World War II.
The massive explosion at the US Steel Clairton Coke Works outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Monday has now killed two workers and injured at least ten others, five of them critically.

Timothy Quinn, 39, a father of three from South Huntingdon, was killed in the blast. Beloved by family and coworkers, Quinn was remembered by one colleague as one of the best guys Ive ever worked with, someone who would give you his shirt off his back if you needed anything. He loved his family. He talked about his kids all the time.

The identity of the second worker killed has not yet been released pending family notification. Five of the injured remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

A portion of the Clairton Coke Works, a U.S. Steel plant, is seen Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Clairton, Pennsylvania. [AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar ]

Rescue crews from 34 fire and EMT units braved unstable structures and lingering gas hazards to search for survivors. Two medics were briefly hospitalized during these heroic efforts, which saved the lives of injured workers.

A series of three massive explosions began just before 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the Clairton plant, the largest coking facility in North America with a workforce of 1,400, located just 20 miles from Pittsburgh. The blasts ripped through coke oven batteries 13 and 14, shaking structures across the sprawling, nearly 400-acre industrial complex and rattling surrounding neighborhoods with shockwaves.

The explosion sent a towering column of thick, black smoke into the sky, visible for miles from the plant. The facility is part of US Steels Mon Valley Works, alongside the Edgar Thomson plant in Braddock and the Irvin plant in West Mifflin.

In a testament to corporate greed and indifference, operations at Clairton continued today without even a pause to allow coworkers of the deceased to grieve. Only coke oven batteries 13 and 14, where the explosion occurred, remain offline. US Steel executives confirmed at a press conference that while the affected batteries are shut down for investigation and safety checks, it is business as usual at the rest of the facility.

No official cause for the disaster has yet been confirmed, but evidence points to a possible gas pressure buildup in the aging infrastructure, which has long been criticized for inadequate maintenance.

Workers knew the plant they reported to each day was in a dangerous state of disrepair. The facility has a long history of serious incidents, including deadly explosions in 2009 and 2010, both traced to gas leaks in coke battery pipelines and linked to equipment failures. A maintenance worker was killed in the 2009 blast, while the 2010 explosion injured 14 employees and six contractors. Most recently, on February 5 of this year, another explosion at the plant injured two workers.

Allegheny County Health Department records show that Clairton Coke Works reported 167 uncontrolled pushes in 2024incidents in which pollution controls failed during the removal of coke from the ovens, sending untreated emissions into the air. The violations, which occurred at multiple batteries, including 13 and 14, led to a $918,000 fine for US Steel, following a $4.6 million penalty in 2022 for more than 800 similar incidents. These levies amount to little more than a slap on the wrist, a minor rounding error in the companys operating costs.

Repeated warnings were ignored by US Steel, now a subsidiary of Nippon Steel following a $15 billion deal brokered by Donald Trump that effectively places the White House in control of Americas largest steelmaker. The agreement hinges on a National Security provision granting the US golden shares with veto power over key strategic decisions.

It is a marriage pact between the authoritarian state and corporate monopoly, in which deregulation, profit and war preparation advance hand in hand. Politicians from both capitalist parties vow to slash job-killing regulations in the name of fueling military production. In practice, this means boosting corporate earnings while dismantling the hard-won protections secured by past generations of workers.

Workplace health and safety has been under relentless attack since the late 1970s under both Democratic and Republican administrations. By 2022, one study found, it would take the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 186 years to inspect every workplace in America.

Under Trump, the assault has reached a qualitatively new level. On the campaign trail he vowed that from Day One he would immediately remove every single burdensome regulation, including the very rules meant to prevent workers from being killed, maimed and poisoned.

The Trump administrations plan for social counter-revolution slashes OSHAs budget by 8 percent and cuts more than 200 inspector positions, ensuring fewer on-site safety checks at plants like Clairton. At the same time, the White House is pushing the steepest reduction for the Environmental Protection Agency in decadesup to 50 percent in one proposalwhile eliminating all funding for the US Chemical Safety Board. The Mine Safety and Health Administration faces a proposed 10 percent budget cut.

These attacks on workplace safety unmask Americas dirtiest secret: That the ruthless drive for profit and the push toward war are actually two sides of the same coin. The budget savings from the cutsabout $5 billionis a pittance compared to the $6.2 trillion in wealth held by Americas billionaires. And the richest 1 percent are now set to reap $117 billion in tax breaks in 2026 alone under Trumps megabill, with a projected windfall of $1.02 trillion over the next decade.

Meanwhile, the total budget remaining that is allocated to major federal workplace and environmental regulatory agencies is approximately $12 billion. This is a mere one one-hundredth of the military budget, less than the cost of a single aircraft carrier, and less than the special extra funding handed over to Israel for its genocidal war against Gaza in the last year of the Biden administration.

Every day across the United States, workers die on the joboften reduced to a few lines in local papers, if reported at all. Recent tragedies include:

Ronald Adams Sr. (63), a Stellantis autoworker in Southeastern Michigan, crushed by a gantry crane on April 7;

(63), a Stellantis autoworker in Southeastern Michigan, crushed by a gantry crane on April 7; Michael Dewaine Townsend (39), a steelworker killed on June 5 in Fairfield, Alabama, after a railcar he was riding struck another railcar;

(39), a steelworker killed on June 5 in Fairfield, Alabama, after a railcar he was riding struck another railcar; Ryan Starnes (23), a construction worker killed on July 5 in Michigan when struck by an excavator bucket;

(23), a construction worker killed on July 5 in Michigan when struck by an excavator bucket; Ronald Baquera Jr . (44), buried alive in a trench collapse in Goodyear, Arizona, on July 8;

. (44), buried alive in a trench collapse in Goodyear, Arizona, on July 8; Brayan Neftali Otoniel Canu Joj (19), a Guatemalan immigrant killed on July 15 at Tinas Burritos in Vernon, California, after being sucked into a meat grinder while cleaning it;

(19), a Guatemalan immigrant killed on July 15 at Tinas Burritos in Vernon, California, after being sucked into a meat grinder while cleaning it; Tuah Kollie (42), killed on July 24 in an industrial accident at a steel plant in Fargo, North Dakota;

(42), killed on July 24 in an industrial accident at a steel plant in Fargo, North Dakota; Kim Jung Won (34), a South Korean contractor crushed to death on July 27 at LG Energy Solutions in Holland, Michigan, when a machinesupposedly disabled for maintenancepinned him between its frame and lifting mechanism; and

(34), a South Korean contractor crushed to death on July 27 at LG Energy Solutions in Holland, Michigan, when a machinesupposedly disabled for maintenancepinned him between its frame and lifting mechanism; and Dylan D. Danielson (32) and his two young children were killed on July 30 in a massive explosion at Horizon Biofuels in Fremont, Nebraska.

The union apparatus is doing nothing to stop the ongoing wave of workplace deaths, including that of Timothy Quinn.

The United Steelworkers (USW), whose members work at Clairton and other US steel plants, has not merely stood by as health and safety protections are gutted, it has functioned as an active partner of corporate management, subordinating workers lives to industry profitability. The last thing the USW bureaucracy wants is any movement among workers that threatens the national security pact between the industry and the Trump administration, which it hopes will provide new streams of revenue and seats at the table in the councils of war.

A Clairton resident, Amy Sowers, responded to Quinns death by asking, How many more lives are going to have to be lost until something happens? The answer is that nothing will happen unless and until workers take matters into their own hands.

The unending wave of industrial slaughter and the sacrifice of lives for profit must end. Workers lives matter! must become a guiding principle for action. Last month, the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) convened a meeting of the workers inquiry into the death of Ronald Adams Sr. at the Stellantis auto plant outside Detroit.

The hearing, based on detailed testimony from Adams coworkers, exposed persistent safety hazards, managements disregard for repeated warnings, and the United Auto Workers bureaucracys refusal to enforce even the most basic protections. It concluded that Adams death was not an unforeseeable accident, but the inevitable outcome of a system in which workers health and lives are treated as expendable.

The World Socialist Web Site and the IWA-RFC insist that only the independent initiative of the working classthrough the formation of rank-and-file committees, democratic bodies led by workers themselvescan secure safe conditions, defend lives and uphold human dignity on the job. These committees unite workers across industries and borders, breaking free from the grip of the pro-corporate union apparatus, and linking the fight for safety to the struggle to replace a system that subordinates human life to private profit.

We urge all workers to join this investigation into workplace deaths and come forward with any information by filling out the form below.
U.S Marines next to members of the California National Guard outside of a federal building, Friday, June 13, 2025, in Los Angeles [AP Photo/Noah Berger]

One day after President Donald Trump announced the federal takeover of Washington D.C. police and the dispatch of 800 National Guard troops to occupy the capital, a huge step in the establishment of a fascistic dictatorship in the US, the Washington Post reported on secret plans for a rapid deployment force of troops to move into cities facing protests or other unrest.

The Post article exposes the fraud of Trumps declaration of a public safety emergency in the capital as the law-and-order pretext for normalizing the use of the military to suppress popular opposition and crush the democratic rights of the working class. In his White House rant on Monday, Trump, flanked by the heads of the Pentagon, the FBI and the Department of Justice, threatened to mobilize active-duty regular troops and expand the domestic use of the military to cities such as Chicago and New York.

The military-police takeover of Washington D.C marks the third deployment of troops for domestic policing since the beginning of Trumps second term in January, the others being the dispatch of troops to the Southern border and the mobilization of 5,000 National Guardsmen and 500 US Marines to Los Angeles earlier this year to suppress protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. With no serious opposition from the Democratic Party, the courts or the trade unions, Trump has effectively rendered the Posse Comitatus Act a dead letter. That act, dating from 1878, bans the use of the military in domestic law enforcement.

The Post article begins:

The Trump administration is evaluating plans that would establish a Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force composed of hundreds of National Guard troops tasked with rapidly deploying into American cities facing protests or other unrest, according to internal Pentagon documents reviewed by The Washington Post.

The newspaper explains that the plan calls for 600 National Guard troops to be on standby so they can deploy in as little as one hour. The troops would be divided into two groups of 300 each and stationed at military bases in Alabama and Arizona.

Compiled by National Guard officials, the documents bear time stamps as recent as late July and early August, according to the Post report. The Post exclusive follows an August 2 report by the New Republic on an internal memo from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) discussing a July 21 meeting between DHS and Pentagon officials on coordinated action in defense of the Homeland. The New Republic writes that the memo suggests that DHS is anticipating many more uses of the military in urban centers, noting that LA-style operations may be needed for years to come.

The Post article notes that Trump ordered a test of the quick reaction force scheme during his first term. In the midst of the mass protests that shook the country following the police murder of George Floyd, 600 National Guard troops were put on alert in Arizona and Alabama. In the event, Trump mobilized the National Guard to crack down on protests in Washington D.C. and threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act on June 20, 2020.

The special military force would be authorized under Title 32 of the US Code, which was used to mobilize National Guard troops from various states to intervene in Washington D.C in June of 2020.

The Post quotes Joseph Nunn, an attorney at the Brennan Center for Justice, who states, You dont want to normalize routine military participation in law enforcement. You dont want to normalize routine domestic deployment.

Citing the documents, the Post reports that the proposal calls for a rotation of service members from Army and Air Force National Guard units based in multiple states, including Alabama, Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee.

The article continues:

The 300 troops in each of the two headquarters locations would be outfitted with weapons and riot gear, the documents say. The first 100 would be ready to move within an hour, with the second and third waves ready to move within two and 12 hours notice, the documents note, or all immediately deployed when placed on high alert.

The response from the Democrats and the corporate media to Trumps military-police takeover of Washington D.C. ranges from complacent indifference to enthusiastic support. Totally absent is any appeal for public resistance to the de facto coup against the US Constitution and what remains of democratic rights. This reflects the outlook of the ruling class, which maintains its rule through the two-party system and controls the media.

This is under conditions of mass and growing opposition in the working class and among the youth and sections of the middle class to Trumps policies. Within the working class, there is a shift to the left in opposition to Trumps policies of dictatorship, militarism, support for Israeli genocide in Gaza, persecution of immigrants, record tax cuts for the rich and over $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, student debt relief and other social programs to help pay for the tax cuts for the oligarchs and record military spending. This past June saw the biggest protest demonstrations in US history on No Kings day, as some 15 million marched across the country in opposition to Trump.

The Democrats and trade union bureaucracy are far more fearful of a mass movement of the working class against the existing system than they are of dictatorship.

Muriel Bowser, the Democratic mayor of Washington D.C., a city with a huge working class population that gave Trump only 6.5 percent of its vote in November 2024, announced that she would acquiesce in Trumps takeover. She merely complained that crime rates were actually falling and that adding more police would be more effective than the military occupation ordered by the White House. She said nothing about Trumps demonization of the homeless as dirty and his pledge to purge the city of homeless encampments. The unions have largely remained silent.

The network evening news programs on Tuesday downplayed Trumps announcement, placing it as the third or fourth item. The New York Times has issued no editorial comment. The Washington Post did not oppose the dictatorial content of Trumps moves. Rather, it complained that they would not go far enough in reducing crime. The Wall Street Journal editorialized:

Mr. Trump loves to cast himself as a man of action, and now hes top cop. If he really helps to clean up D.C., cleaning out homeless camps and making public spaces safer for residents and tourists, hell deserve thanks.

No official institution, including the corporatist unions, has opposed or will oppose the erection of a fascistic presidential dictatorship under Trump. This is because democracy is incompatible with the levels of social inequality that exist under capitalism, above all in America. The defense of democratic rights depends on the mass, independent industrial and political mobilization of the working class against capitalism and for socialism.
In a series of online town hall meetings held over the past month by the Australian Salaried Medical Officers Federation (ASMOF), public sector doctors in New South Wales (NSW) have expressed strong opposition to the latest miserly pay offer from the state Labor government.

Young doctors on strike outside John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, April 9, 2025

But while many doctors want to reject the deal and resume industrial action, ASMOF is adopting a neutral position, continuing to enforce a strike ban and seeking to subordinate the physicians struggle to still-unscheduled arbitration in the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC).

The Labor governments new proposed deal consists of a 3 percent interim pay increase, backdated to July 1, 2024, and a further 3 percent interim increase, backdated to July 1 this year. These nominal wage rises would fall far short of what is needed to keep up with the soaring cost of living, let alone recoup past losses that have resulted in NSW doctors earning on average 30 percent less than their interstate counterparts.

The offer would do nothing to address the increasingly difficult working conditions doctors confront, which, as much as wages, motivated them to strike in April, for the first time since 1998. Like health workers across Australia, doctors are on the frontlines of a breakdown of public hospitals and healthcare, characterised by bed shortages, lack of resources, understaffing and overwork. Medical staff are being driven to the point of burnout, while patients face growing wait times in emergency departments and dangerous delays for diagnosis and surgery.

The latest government offer is described as interim because it does not prevent ASMOF pursuing further claims on wages and conditions through arbitration. But the meagre offer comes with a major restriction: It is conditional on doctors committing not to take any industrial action until the arbitration is complete, which is unlikely to be earlier than next year.

According to ASMOF, Labor has refused to guarantee that accepting the offer would not be used by the government to argue against [additional] backpay, a clear sign that it intends to make precisely that argument to the IRC.

In other words, what is now being offered is effectively the same pay dealbut for two years instead of threethat doctors overwhelmingly rejected in March, leading to their historic three-day strike. The only difference now is that, in an attempt to push the governments hated offer through, the ASMOF bureaucracy is promoting illusions that the state-controlled IRC will defy Labors intransigent position on public-sector wages and unilaterally award a bigger bounty at some unspecified time in the future.

A doctor who attended one of the meetings told the World Socialist Web Site, most doctors are unimpressed with the offer. He said there was a strong sentiment among attendees that it would be crazy to give away our one bargaining chip, the possibility of further strikes. Doctors felt that the fact that this is what the government is demanding means theyve recognised thats their weakness, he said.

In a poll conducted during that meeting, more than three quarters of doctors present voted to reject the offer and resume industrial action. This was despite comments from ASMOF officials, the doctor noted, who were saying yeah, why wouldnt we take the money and go through the IRC?

ASMOFs continual promotion of the IRC as an independent umpire that will deliver a favourable result is a fraud. It is aimed at diverting the attention of doctors, psychiatrists and other workers from what they are really up againsta state Labor government that is intensely hostile to the demands of workers throughout the public sector for decent pay and conditions.

The IRC is an arm of the state, tasked with enforcing this austerity agenda. Workers can win nothing through appeals to this bosses court. In addition to its record of rubber-stamping one attack on public sector workers pay and conditions after another, the tribunal has repeatedly declared industrial action illegal, including the doctors strike itself.

ASMOF and all other unions completely accept and agree with the framework of the IRC and the draconian industrial relations law it enforces, relying on it as a pretext to divide workers up, workplace by workplace and profession by profession.

Drawing on the experiences of other health workers in the recent past, the doctor said: Doctors are scheduled for arbitration later this year, but thats not locked in. Nurses have taken over a year for their case to be looked at by the IRC.

The parallels are notable. In October last year, after two statewide strikes, the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association (NSWNMA) leadership agreed to a 3 percent interim pay rise for public sector nurses and midwives. At the same time, the NSWNMA announced a six-week strike ban.

This transparent attempt to shut down the struggle of health workers was unsuccessful, and the union was compelled to call a third strike. But in January, the NSWNMA bureaucracy agreed to terminate all industrial action until the IRC heard the unions special case for Award reform. With the hearings still at least a month away, this ban remains in effect, and nurses and midwives will soon be asked to vote on yet another interim offer, under conditions where they have been stripped of any right to oppose it through industrial action.

The doctor also referred to the situation confronting public sector psychiatrists, who in January were encouraged by ASMOF to resign en masse. The union falsely claimed this would pressure the government to meet their demands for higher wages and increased staffing, without the need for strikes or other action.

As the WSWS warned, the resignation plan was a political dead end, substituting individual acts of protest for an industrial fight and isolating psychiatrists from other doctors and health workers. Six months later, the dispute remains mired in the IRC.

The doctor explained, When doctors went on strike it delayed the IRC hearings for psychiatrists, that was why further strikes were called off until the decision on psychiatrists. In other words, because the same union is involved in both disputes, the IRC delayed the psychiatrists hearings, effectively punishing them for the doctors strike.

The ASMOF bureaucracy not only accepted the IRCs draconian act, but used it as a pretext to set doctors against psychiatrists and shut down any further industrial action by both sections of the workforce.

The WSWS understands that other meetings in the series featured similar hostility to the pay offer and strike ban, both in terms of the votes and the comments of doctors participating.

At one meeting, an attendee said the no-strike deal would amount to handicapping ourselves, while others expressed distrust of the IRC and pointed to it being a tool of the government. Others raised that the fight for decent wages and conditions was not just about improving the lives and livelihoods of doctors, but about the defence of public health more broadly.

Following the meetings, ASMOF announced on August 6 it would delay putting the offer to a membership-wide ballot, clearly anxious to avoid a strong vote against accepting the deal and in favour of further strikes and other industrial action. To cover over this motive, the ASMOF bureaucracy claimed it was a strategic decision  as we anticipate the outcome of the psychiatry arbitration may be announced soon.

The meetings revealed the growing gulf between the sentiments of doctors, who want to fight for better wages and conditions, and the ASMOF leadership, which, like the other health union bureaucracies, serves to enforce the cuts demanded by governments and big business.

Doctors and psychiatrists must reject the fraud promoted by ASMOF, that their demands can be won through legal manoeuvring in the IRC, or through appeals to the state Labor government, which is carrying out a further assault on the already crumbling public health system, and all of its employees.

Defeating this will require a unified struggle with the psychiatrists, nurses, midwives and other health and public sector workers, all of whom are confronting the same attack on wages and conditions by the Labor government. This is impossible behind the leadership of ASMOF or any other union, whose modus operandi is to keep workers divided and isolated.

This means health workers need to take matters into their own hands. Rank-and-file committees must be built in every hospital and health facility to facilitate the widest democratic discussion, and to plan a genuine campaign of political and industrial action. A turn must be made to health workers in other states across Australia who face similar attacks.

The struggle for real improvements to wages and conditions for doctors, psychiatrists and other health workers is inseparable from the fight for a high-quality public health system. Through rank-and-file committees, health professionals can make a powerful appeal to the broadest layers of the working class, to join the fight against the chronic underfunding and staff shortages responsible for the appalling conditions and dangerous delays confronting patients.

Above all, workers must recognise that they are engaged in a political fight. The NSW Labor governments policy is in line with the broader austerity agenda of the federal Labor government, which is being imposed across the country. To fight against this a socialist perspective is needed, aimed at ending the subordination of public health, education and other essential social services to the dictates of corporate profits.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in league with the Florida state government, is engaged in a cover-up of the near-death of Venezuelan detainee Luis Manuel Rivas Velasquez and an ongoing viral outbreak at the Florida Everglades Alligator Alcatraz concentration camp. Federal and state authorities are refusing to acknowledge the spread of illness inside the remote facility, or provide adequate medical care to the hundreds of people detained there.

Luis Manuel Rivas Velasquez [Photo: Luis Frio]

The government is deliberately confining immigrants, the vast majority of whom have not been convicted of a crime, in facilities where adverse health outcomes, including death, are inevitable. Including the alleged suicide of Chaofeng Ge, 32, in Pennsylvania last week, at least 12 people have died in ICE custody in 2025. According to the New York Times, more than 60,000 people are currently imprisoned in ICE facilitiesby far the most in decades.

In an interview with the Guardian, Eric Lee, one of Rivas Velasquezs attorneys, confirmed the horrific conditions at Alligator Alcatraz.

Based on what multiple detainees have told me, in the last 72 to 100 hours, there is some respiratory disease which has made the majority, or I would even say vast majority, of detainees sick in some form. There are people who are losing breath. There are people who are walking around coughing on one another. Their requests for masks from the guards are denied, and they only are allowed to shower once or maybe twice a week.

In a phone call with his client, Lee confirmed that Rivas Velasquez was denied medical care for 48 hours before he collapsed on Tuesday. While fellow detainees, including a nurse from Cuba, performed CPR on Rivas Velasquez, staff on site offered no medical support. According to multiple witnesses Rivas Velasquez was left to lie on the floor for approximately 30 minutes before emergency personnel arrived.

Lee described the concentration camp as a petri dish for disease.

Work progresses on a new migrant concentration camp at Dade-Collier Training and Transition facility in the Florida Everglades, Friday, July 4, 2025, in Ochopee, Florida. [AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell]

For nearly two days, friends, family and lawyers for Rivas Velasquez did not know if he was alive or dead. DHS officials refused to confirm that a medical emergency had occurred, and only late on Wednesday night released a statement falsely claiming that Rivas Velasquez had simply fainted.



Roughly 48 hours after he was hospitalized, Rivas Velasquez was returned to Alligator Alcatraz, where the guards refused his request for medical records. Lee told the Guardian that, in apparent retaliation for Rivas Velasquez speaking out against the inhumane conditions that nearly killed him, The guards came to his bed, opened his pillow, took all the poetry and letters hed been writing and all the notes hed been taking about his experiences, and told him hes no longer allowed to write.

As the WSWS reported Sunday, Lee confirmed to the Guardian that his client was secretly transferred on Saturday to a detention facility in El Paso, Texas. Lee has been able to speak to his client only once since the transfer. During that call, Rivas Velasquez said he was being denied medical care and that he thought he was going to die. An emergency medical team in El Paso was dispatched to the detention center but was blocked from entering by ICE agents.

Florida officials stonewall press inquiries

The government has denied there is any outbreak at the Florida facility. On July 14, Miami New Times journalists began contacting the Florida Department of Health (FDH) about possible COVID-19 cases at Alligator Alcatraz after reports emerged of detainees falling ill.

Despite six calls and emails, the FDH did not respond until July 22, when press secretary Isabel Kilman replied to the New Times that the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) would handle all media inquiries. Repeated follow-up requests by New Times reporters to FDEM spokesperson Stephanie Hartman were ignored until August 8after Rivas Velasquez had been hospitalized.

Hartman then falsely claimed that reports of a serious illness were false, and insisted, Detainees have access to a 24/7, fully staffed medical facility with a pharmacy on site. She has refused to answer any further questions, including those about the spread of COVID-19 inside the camp.

The refusal to test for or treat COVID-19 inside Alligator Alcatraz, and in immigrant and prison facilities across the United States, mirrors the broader attack on public health for the entire working class. From factories to schools, from hospitals to nursing homes, infections are allowed to spread unchecked, with predictable and deadly results.

This policy is bipartisan. While Trump first called for the US to stop testing for COVID-19 in 2020, it was under the Biden administration that all public health measures aimed at stopping the spread of the virus were dismantled. The Democrats fully embraced Trumps herd immunity program, which has already claimed the lives of over 1.2 million Americans. When factoring in excess mortality, the total pandemic-related death toll is estimated at over 2 million. The Centers for Disease Control now estimates the virus is growing or likely growing in 45 out of 50 states, including Florida, with no measures in place to halt transmission.

A map produced by the CDC which estimates that "COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 45 states." [Photo: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

Emboldened by the Democrats adoption of his anti-public health and anti-immigrant agenda, Trump is intensifying his attacks on the working class. His anti-science HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has cut $500 million in mRNA vaccine grants, and his relentless vilification of public health officials helped incite the recent armed attack on CDC headquarters in Atlanta, which left one police officer and the anti-vaccine gunman dead.

The reconciliation package passed earlier this year codified Trumps 2017 tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy and Fortune 500 companies, while cutting $800 billion from Medicaid. At the same time, it handed the immigration Gestapo a massive budget increase$75 billion in new funding for ICE over fiscal years 202529. These policies make clear the priorities of the ruling class: endless resources for repression, and nothing for healthcare, housing or basic human needs.
At its worst, it's a harrowing place where a 14-year-old could steal your Hyundai.

The confluence of these two truths in the terrible early-morning beating of the DOGE employee Edward Coristine, known by his sobriquet "Big Balls," has prompted President Trump to federalize the DC police and deploy the National Guard.

The software engineer played a significant role in the frenetic push to reform the federal government that dominated the beginning of Trump's second term and, by virtue of being in the wrong place at the wrong time (and protecting a young woman), was violently attacked by teenagers within two miles of the White House.

The municipal government of Washington has never been worthy of the seat of government of the greatest and most powerful nation that has ever existed.

It's consistently been an embarrassment and, for decades now, has tolerated  and, worse, created the conditions for  disorderly and dangerous streets.

The late historian Fred Siegel wrote how "social license and economic restrictions," what he called "the two halves of sixties liberalism," drained cities like Washington, DC, of their vitality.

Over-regulated and inefficient, they were saddled by a "state-supported economy of social workers."

On top of this, in the 1970s, DC experienced "black nationalism in power," especially in the person of the catastrophic, long-time mayoralty of Marion Barry.

The federal government had to put a financial control board in charge in the 1990s to bring the district back from the brink of bankruptcy.

Indeed, in the scheme of things, Trump's intervention is more the norm than the exception in DC's history.

In the 19th century, Congress governed the district via committees, before trying home rule in 1871 and quickly pulling back after the district was  yes  financially mismanaged.

DC has had home rule since 1973, with the financial board exercising significant power from 1995 to 2001.

The district is better off now than in the bad old days of the 1990s, but remains beset by a soft-minded progressivism on matters of law and order that is an ongoing threat to public safety.

As usual, Trump is opting for the sledgehammer over the scalpel.

Still, his indictment of DC for allowing lawless young people to blight the city is accurate.

But, the critics object, violent crime is falling in Washington!

Yes, it is, although from an unacceptably high level.

As of 2024, DC had the fourth-highest homicide rate of all major US cities and a higher homicide rate than all 50 states.

As Charles Lehman of the Manhattan Institute points out, its homicide rate for young black men has been above the national average for decades now.

The killings overwhelmingly involve young black men who have already been entangled in the criminal justice system, with substantial rap sheets and often prison time.

Lehman cites a report by the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform that found about "500 identifiable people" are in this category, and account for 60% to 70% of all the gun violence in the city.

The carjackings, meanwhile, tend to be carried out by minors.

According to Lehman, DC needs more cops who are more active making stops and arrests, as well as more prosecutions.

It also should be targeting the relatively small group of people most prone to violence, and the city's gangs.

All of this, coupled with cleaning up homeless encampments, could continue the recent favorable crime trends and make the city feel like a better, safer place.

It's probably too much to ask Washington, DC's government to meet the soaring, implicit standard of its most famous buildings.

But not having to fear roving bands of young thugs would be a step in the right direction.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
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The Trump administration is evaluating plans that would establish a "Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force" composed of hundreds of National Guard troops tasked with rapidly deploying into American cities facing protests or other unrest, according to internal Pentagon documents reviewed by The Washington Post.

The plan calls for 600 troops to be on standby at all times so they can deploy in as little as one hour, the documents say. They would be split into two groups of 300 and stationed at military bases in Alabama and Arizona, with purview of regions east and west of the Mississippi River, respectively.

Cost projections outlined in the documents indicate that such a mission, if the proposal is adopted, could stretch into the hundreds of millions of dollars should military aircraft and aircrews also be required to be ready around-the-clock. Troop transport via commercial airlines would be less expensive, the documents say.

The proposal, which has not been previously reported, represents another potential expansion of President Donald Trump's willingness to employ the armed forces on American soil. It relies on a section of the U.S. Code that allows the commander in chief to circumvent limitations on the military's use within the United States.

The documents, marked "predecisional," are comprehensive and contain extensive discussion about the potential societal implications of establishing such a program. They were compiled by National Guard officials and bear time stamps as recent as late July and early August. Fiscal 2027 is the earliest this program could be created and funded through the Pentagon's traditional budgetary process, the documents say, leaving unclear whether the initiative could begin sooner through an alternative funding source.

It is also unclear whether the proposal has been shared with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

"The Department of Defense is a planning organization and routinely reviews how the department would respond to a variety of contingencies across the globe," Kingsley Wilson, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said in a statement. "We will not discuss these plans through leaked documents, pre-decisional or otherwise."

The National Guard Bureau did not respond to a request for comment.

While most National Guard commands have fast-response teams for use within their home states, the proposal under evaluation by the Trump administration would entail moving troops from one state to another.

The National Guard tested the concept ahead of the 2020 election, putting 600 troops on alert in Arizona and Alabama as the country braced for possible political violence. The test followed months of unrest in cities across the country, prompted by the police murder of George Floyd, that spurred National Guard deployments in numerous locations. Trump, then nearing the end of his first term, sought to employ active-duty combat troops while Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper and other Pentagon officials urged him to rely instead on the Guard, which is trained to address civil disturbances.

Trump has summoned the military for domestic purposes like few of his predecessors have. He did so most recently Monday, authorizing the mobilization of 800 D.C. National Guard troops to bolster enhanced law enforcement activity in Washington that he said is necessary to address violent crime. Data maintained by the D.C. police shows such incidents are in decline; the city's mayor called the move "unsettling and unprecedented."

Earlier this year, over the objections of California's governor and other Democrats, Trump dispatched more than 5,000 National Guard members and active-duty Marines to the Los Angeles area under a rarely used authority permitting the military's use for quelling insurrection. Administration officials said the mission was necessary to protect federal personnel and property amid protests denouncing Trump's immigration policies. His critics called the deployment unnecessary and a gross overreach. Before long, many of the troops involved were doing unrelated support work, including a raid on a marijuana farm more than 100 miles away.

The Trump administration also has dispatched thousands of troops to the southern border in a dramatic show of force meant to discourage illegal migration.

National Guard troops can be mobilized for federal missions inside the United States under two main authorities. The first, Title 10, puts troops under the president's direction, where they can support law enforcement activity but not perform arrests or investigations.

The other, Title 32, is a federal-state status where troops are controlled by their state governor but federally funded. It allows more latitude to participate in law enforcement missions. National Guard troops from other states arrived in D.C. under such circumstances during racial justice protests in 2020.

The proposal being evaluated now would allow the president to mobilize troops and put them on Title 32 orders in a state experiencing unrest. The documents detailing the plan acknowledge the potential for political friction should that state's governor refuse to work with the Pentagon.

Some legal scholars expressed apprehension about the proposal.

The Trump administration is relying on a shaky legal theory that the president can act broadly to protect federal property and functions, said Joseph Nunn, an attorney at the Brennan Center for Justice who specializes in legal issues germane to the U.S. military's domestic activities.

"You don't want to normalize routine military participation in law enforcement," he said. "You don't want to normalize routine domestic deployment." The strategy is further complicated by the fact that National Guard members from one state cannot operate in another state without permission, Nunn said. He also warned that any quick-reaction force established for civil-unrest missions risks lowering the threshold for deploying National Guard troops into American cities.

"When you have this tool waiting at your fingertips, you're going to want to use it," Nunn said. "It actually makes it more likely that you're going to see domestic deployments - because why else have a task force?"

The proposal represents a major departure in how the National Guard traditionally has been used, said Lindsay P. Cohn, an associate professor of national security affairs at the U.S. Naval War College. While it is not unusual for National Guard units to be deployed for domestic emergencies within their states, including for civil disturbances, this "is really strange because essentially nothing is happening," she said.

"Crime is going down. We don't have major protests or civil disturbances. There is no significant resistance from states" to federal immigration policies, she said. "There is very little evidence anything big is likely to happen soon," said Cohn, who stressed she was speaking in her personal capacity and not reflecting her employer's views.

Moreover, Cohn said, the proposal risks diverting National Guard resources that may be needed to respond to natural disasters or other emergencies.

The proposal envisions a rotation of service members from Army and Air Force National Guard units based in multiple states. Those include Alabama, Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee, the documents say.

Carter Elliott, a spokesperson for Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D), said governors and National Guard leaders are best suited to decide how to support law enforcement during emergencies. "There is a well-established procedure that exists to request additional assistance during times of need," Elliott said, "and the Trump administration is blatantly and dangerously ignoring that precedent."

One action memo contained in the documents, dated July 22, recommends that Army military police and Air Force security forces receive additional training for the mission. The document indicates it was prepared for Hegseth by Elbridge Colby, the Defense Department's undersecretary for policy.

The 300 troops in each of the two headquarters locations would be outfitted with weapons and riot gear, the documents say. The first 100 would be ready to move within an hour, with the second and third waves ready within two and 12 hours' notice, the documents note, or all immediately deployed when placed on high alert.

The quick-reaction teams would be on task for 90 days, the documents said, "to limit burnout."

The documents also show robust internal discussions that, with unusual candor, detail the possible negative repercussions if the plan were enacted. For instance, such short-notice missions could "significantly impact volunteerism," the documents say, which would adversely affect the military's ability to retain personnel. Guard members, families and civilian employers "feel the significant impacts of short notice activations," the documents said.

 The documents highlight several other concerns, including:

 "Reduced Availability for Other Missions: State-Level Readiness: States may have fewer Guard members available for local emergencies (e.g., wildfires, hurricanes)."

 "Strain on Personnel and Equipment: Frequent domestic deployments can lead to personnel fatigue (stress, burnout, employer conflicts) and accelerated wear and tear on equipment, particularly systems not designed for prolonged civil support missions."

 "Training Disruptions: Erosion of Core Capabilities: Extensive domestic deployments can disrupt scheduled training, hinder skill maintenance and divert units from their primary military mission sets, ultimately impacting overall combat readiness."

 "Budgetary and Logistical Strains: Sustained operations can stretch budgets, requiring emergency funding or impacting other planned activities."

 "Public and Political Impact: National Guard support for DHS raises potential political sensitivities, questions regarding the appropriate civil-military balance and legal considerations related to their role as a nonpartisan force."

 Officials also have expressed some worry that deploying troops too quickly could make for a haphazard situation as state and local governments scramble to coordinate their arrival, the documents show.

One individual cited in the documents rejected the notion that military aviation should be the primary mode of transportation, emphasizing the significant burden of daily aircraft inspections and placing aircrews on constant standby. The solution, this official proposed, was to contract with Southwest Airlines or American Airlines through their Phoenix and Atlanta operations, the documents say.

"The support (hotels, meals, etc.) required will fall onto the general economy in large and thriving cities of the United States," this official argued. Moreover, bypassing military aircraft would allow for deploying personnel to travel "in a more subdued status" that might avoid adding to tensions in their "destination city."

(COMMENT, BELOW)




The bodies of two South Carolina women were found in the Rembert area of Sumter County, and at least one of them is confirmed to have died of a gunshot wound.

The Sumter County Sheriffs Office has launched a homicide investigation after the remains of Kristen N. Grissom, 38, of North Charleston, and Christine Marie McAbee, 35 and from Walterboro, were discovered on the afternoon of August 8.

A landowner discovered the bodies in a clearing and deputies responded at around 1:17 p.m. to the location on Richbow Road. "The bodies appeared to have been placed at the location," the Sumter County Sheriffs Office stated in a news release.

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The deaths appear to be an isolated incident and there is currently not a known danger to the public, according to Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis.

Dennis has asked the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division to help with the investigation.

For more in true crime:

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What happened to Kristen Grissom and Christine McAbee?

One of the two victims, McAbee, died from a gunshot wound, an autopsy confirmed, according to South Carolina station WIS-TV. An autopsy for the second woman, Grissom, was still in progress on the afternoon of Aug. 12, when officials held a press conference at the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.

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The women were believed to have been dead for about a day before their bodies were found, Baker said, according to CBS News. They were identified through tattoos, fingerprints, and DNA analysis.

While McAbee's death is being investigated as a homicide, Grissom's death is being investigated as a potential homicide until the autopsy is complete.

RELATED: California Woman Mysteriously Vanishes from Cruise Ship During Trip with Ex-Husband

Dennis said that the women knew each other, though details were not provided.

He added at the press conference that several tips have come in on the case, but didn't say whether investigators had a suspect yet.

The Sumter County Sheriff's Office asks that anyone with information that may be helpful in the case call 803-436-2000 or visit www.p3tips.com.
Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar in <em>Saare Jahan Se Accha.</em> Credit - Courtesy of Netflix

Warning: This post contains spoilers for Saare Jahan Se Accha.

Set in the 1970s, Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians unspools an intense tale of espionage and military strategy, following an Indian counterintelligence officer as he confronts an imminent nuclear threat.

Premiering on Aug. 13 on Netflix, the series finds drama in the complex and dangerous workings of intelligence operations, where every step can mean the difference between life and death. By showcasing the intrigue, betrayal, and sacrifice of the agents involved, the series exposes the human cost behind national security.

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Lets break down the major plot lines in Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians.

Read more: The Best International Movies on Netflix

The India-Pakistan relationship

The conflict between India and Pakistan in Saare Jahan Se Accha is more than a territorial or ideological disputeit is a race for power. The storyline is inspired by real historical events: since the partition of the British subcontinent in 1947, the two countries have fought wars primarily over the disputed Kashmir province. In the serieswhich begins in the early 1960s and unfolds in a linear timelineafter two wars within five years, Indian physicist Homi Jehangir Bhabha publicly advocates for India to become a nuclear power. This declaration draws the attention of the CIA, which fears an arms race in the region and begins acting to prevent India from developing its bomb.

Indian agent Vishnu Shankar (Pratik Gandhi) discovers that confidential information about Bhabhas trip was leaked to the Americans and tries to prevent an assassination attempt. However, the scientist dies when the plane explodes mid-air in 1966, putting Indias nuclear program on hold. This event leads to the creation of a new Indian espionage agency, focused especially on monitoring threats in enemy territories: the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).

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In Saare Jahan Se Accha, tensions between the countries rise again with the crisis in East Pakistan that triggers the 1971 war. Pakistan is divided, and India claims victorywhich is seen as a national humiliation across the border. The prime ministers of both countries sign the Simla Agreement, intended as a peace treaty, but unexpectedly marking the beginning of another conflict. Determined never to lose again, the Pakistani government secretly initiates efforts to acquire its own nuclear bomb, turning the dispute into a silent war of intelligence and strategy.

Read more: Heres Whats New on Netflix in August 2025

Does India manage to sabotage Pakistans nuclear attempts?

Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar, Ninad Kamat as Adhikari in Saare Jahan Se Accha. Courtesy of Netflix

In Episode 3 of the series, it becomes clear that Pakistan is not building its own nuclear reactor from scratch, but buying one from the French manufacturer HGNa company active in nuclear technology that also helped China become a nuclear powerwith components that will enable the production of neutralized plutonium. This material will be converted into weapons-grade plutonium, suitable for nuclear arms manufacture.

To curb this threat, Vishnu, now leading R&AW operations in Pakistan, organizes a risky secret mission to intercept a shipment near the port of Gadani, where the cargo is expected to arrive. He is aided by Yasir Abbas, a weapons specialist; Raghuveer Singh, a sniper who served in Kashmir and Tawang; Uday Bhan, an explosives expert; and Sukhbir Singh, an Indian agent undercover in Pakistan posing as a Karachi stockbroker.

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Read more: Breaking Down the Complex Ending of Indian Thriller Mandala Murders

With heavy military security and constant surveillance, the location is nearly impenetrable but still has vulnerabilities. Vishnus team infiltrates an abandoned underground tunnel about 800 meters from the port to plant explosives at strategic points, since the trucks carrying the dismantled reactorsplit into three loadswill pass directly above it. However, Pakistani soldiers patrolling the area discover the team, leading to a firefight that kills three soldiers. Yasir, Uday, and Raghuveer don Pakistani army uniforms to execute a new plan: blow up the ship carrying the reactor. Meanwhile, Vishnu heads to a watchtower and Sukhbir sets off in a boat with a backup plan if the others fail to detonate the explosives from inside.

Yasir, Uday, and Raghuveer are killed by Pakistani forces after planting explosives on the cargo, which are then defused. Using a walkie-talkie, Vishnu informs Sukhbir of the situation, and then he initiates his plan. Piloting a boat loaded with explosives toward the ship, Sukhbir exchanges gunfire with the army once they spot him. Despite being wounded, he recovers enough to successfully ram into the ship, resulting in a massive explosion that destroys both vessels. The mission was never supposed to be a suicide operation, but following the failure of the initial plan and the deaths of the specialists, Sukhbir initiated his backup plan. With that, Pakistan loses its nuclear reactor.

Who dies during the mission?

Sunny Hinduja as Murtaza. Courtesy of Netflix

At the start of Saare Jahan Se Accha, several spies from the CIA, Mossad, and KGB are uncovered and killed in Pakistan, as well as intermediaries assisting India. However, the most prominent characters involved in the R&AW mission die beginning in Episode 3.

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Naushad Ahmed, a respected senior officer in the Pakistan Army, begins feeding information on Pakistans nuclear program to R&AW after being blackmailed with photos of his son, Altamash Ahmed, with another boy. Naushad asks his friend Murtaza Malik, head of Pakistans intelligence agency, to look after his son before said friend shoots him in the head.

The three specialists on Vishnus teamYasir Abbas, Raghuveer Singh, and Uday Bhanare killed during the violent confrontation with Pakistani soldiers on the ship. The most poignant sacrifice is that of Sukhbir, whose intentional crash into the cargo ship amounts to a suicide mission. This act ensures the reactors total destruction as he sacrifices his life for the success of the operation and his country. Vishnu Shankar is the sole survivor of this mission, carrying the memory of his fallen comrades who gave their lives for national securitya silent and invisible gesture to the public.

How does Saare Jahan Se Accha end?

Pratik Gandhi as Vishnu Shankar in Saare Jahan Se Accha. Courtesy of Netflix

The series conclusion reinforces the somber tone that permeates the narrative. After the successful mission, Vishnu returns to India but carries the weight of loss and the heavy responsibility of his role.

Though Vishnus mission to sabotage the imminent nuclear threat succeeds, he is already en route to a new assignment in the final minutes of the last episode. The series closes with Vishnu on the India-China border, symbolizing that despite this battles victory, the intelligence war never ends. Each completed mission is merely a step toward the next, in a relentless fight to protect his country from unseen dangers.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
All About Cristiano Ronaldo & Georgina Rodriguez's Engagement Ring- The Price Will Blow Your Mind originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez broke the internet with one simple Instagram post as the couple is finally engaged. The two first met in 2016 and have been together for nearly a decade.

Georgina Rodriguez posted a picture on her Instagram confirming that Ronaldo proposed to her. Rodriguez showed off her engagement ring, which caused lots of reactions. The size of the ring is a big talking point among many fans of the couple.

The image shows the ring with Georgina Rodriguez showing the ring with Ronaldo's hand below it. She also made sure to tag Ronaldo on her Instagram to confirm the engagement. The caption read, "Yes, I do. In this and in all my lives."

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Many wonder about the price of the ring, and sources in Spain suggest that it is easily worth more than seven figures.

Georgina Rodriguez's Engagement Ring Worth Over $1 Million?

According to Marca, jewelry experts expect the price of the ring to be worth over $1 million and likely to exceed 10-15 carats. The ring could also be valued at more than $3 million, as previous rings worn by Rodriguez have been valued at over $3 million.

The size of the ring is unknown, but it sure has fans talking, some calling it 'a stone' on her finger. Fans have sent kind words under Georgina's Instagram post and sent their congratulatory messages.

Roanldo's comment section in his recent Instagram post is also filled with many fans congratulating the Al Nassr star, who has been with the Argentine model for a long time.

Ronaldo and Georgina's Long Relationship

The couple has been together since meeting in 2016 in Spain. They were a couple during Ronaldo's last years at Real Madrid. Rodriguez accompanied Ronaldo and his family throughout the clubs he joined following his time at Real Madrid.

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Ronaldo went to Juventus in 2018, returned to Manchester United in 2021, and joined Al Nassr at the start of 2023. The pair has two biological children together, Alana Martina and Bella Esmeralda.

Rodriguez has also taken care of Ronaldo's other kids, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., and twins Mateo and Eva. Rodriguez appears to also have a great relationship with Ronaldo's mother, Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro.

Cristiano Ronaldo: "Well be [married] one day when we get that click, for sure. Its my Moms dream as well."

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 11, 2025, where it first appeared.
International Oscar Submissions: Austria, Germany, Thailand, Bulgaria Among Recent Additions

Oscar season is about to kick into high gear with fall festival season just around the corner. The deadline to submit international feature selections is Oct. 1, so look for a flurry of announcements in the next five weeks. The Oscars shortlists are revealed on Dec. 16, with 15 international films selected to be voted on by Academy members in all branches who commit to watch all 15 films. Oscar nominations will be revealed on Jan. 22.

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Turkey was the first country out of the gate, selecting One of Those Days When Hemme Dies, which premiered at last years Venice Film Festival. The Czech Republic chose Im Not Everything I Want to Be after a controversial process, while Switzerland selected medical drama Late Shift.

Palestine submitted Annemarie Jacirs historical drama Palestine 36, Ireland went with Gar ORourkes Ukrainian-language doc Sanatorium, Bulgaria selected Milko Lazarovs modern folktale Tarika, and Thailand chose Ratchapoom Boonbunchachokes romantic ghost story A Useful Ghost.

Recently, Germany selected Mascha Schilinskis intergenerational drama Sound of Falling, and Austria chose Bernhard Wengers social satire Peacock.

Stay tuned for many more selections in the coming weeks and watch the trailers below.

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Peacock (Austria)

Peacock (Austria)





Austria has selected Bernhard Wengers social satire Peacock as its entry in the Best International Feature Film category of the 98th Academy Awards.

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Peacock had its world premiere in Venice Critics Week last year, and MK2 sold it to more than 40 countries. It will be released in U.S. theaters on Sept. 19 by Oscilloscope.

The film stars Albrecht Schuch, who was BAFTA nominated for All Quiet on the Western Front.

Peacock centers on the cultured and confident Matthias, who is available  for a reasonable fee  to fill any social role you desire, from the perfect son to the enlightened boyfriend, or even pilot dad to impress your classmates on Bring Your Parent to School Day. But while Matthias is at the top of his game professionally, his personal life begins to crumble as he detaches from his own identity and burrows deeper into his fictitious lives.

Sound of Falling (Germany)

Sound of Falling (Germany)





Germany has selected Mascha Schilinskis intergenerational drama Sound of Falling, which won the Cannes Jury Prize, as its entry in the Best International Feature Film category of the 98th Academy Awards.

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Sound of Falling is set in a secluded farmstead in Germanys Altmark region. For over a century, the walls have breathed the lives of the people who live here, their tastes, their existence in time.

The film tells the story of four women from different eras  Alma (1910s), Erika (1940s), Angelika (1980s) and Nelly (2020s)  whose lives are eerily intertwined. Each of them experiences their childhood or youth on this farm, but as they roam through their own present, traces of the past  unspoken fears, repressed traumas, buried secrets  reveal themselves to them.

Alma discovers that she was named after her deceased sister and believes she must follow the same fate. Erika loses herself in a dangerous fascination with her disabled uncle. Angelika balances between a death wish and a lust for life, trapped in a fragile family system. And finally theres Nelly, growing up in apparent security, who is haunted by intense dreams and the unconscious burden of the past. When a tragic event repeats itself on the farm, the boundaries between past and present begin to blur.

The film was produced by Maren Schmitt, Lucas Schmidt and Lasse Scharpen for Studio Zentral. MK2 is handling international sales.

A Useful Ghost (Thailand)

A Useful Ghost (Thailand)





Thailand has selected A Useful Ghost (Pee Chai Dai Ka) as its submission for the international feature film category at the 98th Academy Awards, the countrys National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations has revealed.

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It debuted at the Cannes Critics Week earlier this year, where it won the grand prize.

Directed by debutant Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, A Useful Ghost follows March, who is mourning his wife Nat after she dies from dust pollution. When her spirit returns by possessing a vacuum cleaner, their unconventional human-ghost relationship faces resistance from his family. To prove her worth and their love, Nat offers to cleanse a factory haunted by the ghost of a worker whose death shut down operations. The film ingeniously reimagines the ghost story as a satirical romantic comedy, a deliberate departure from Thailands renowned horror cinema traditions.

Read the Variety review here.

Tarika (Bulgaria)





Bulgaria has selected Milko Lazarovs Tarika, which had its world premiere at the London Film Festival, as its submission for the International Feature Film category of the Oscars.

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The film centers on Ali and his daughter Tarika, who live peacefully, but isolated, from their community in rural Bulgaria. Tarika has started developing butterfly wings, a bone condition she inherited from her mother and which for a long time has been a source of superstition in the village. Ali rejects invasive procedures and will do anything to protect his daughter when their villages intolerance turns dangerous.

The sales company is Films Boutique.

Sanatorium (Ireland)

Sanatorium (Ireland)





The Irish-made, Ukrainian-language doc Sanatorium is set to represent Ireland at the Oscars.

The feature debut of Galway-born filmmaker Gar ORourke, Sanatorium takes a look inside the Kuyalnik Sanatorium, a large 1970s building near Odessa in southern Ukraine, where a small group searches for love, healing and happiness and where mud treatments and Soviet-era therapies continue despite a war close by. The film had its world premiere at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen in their main international competition, DOX:AWARD.

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Sanatorium  which comes a year after the Irish-language music biopic Kneecap made the Oscars shortlist for Ireland  is produced by Venom Films by IFTA-winning Ken Wardrop and Andrew Freedman (His & Hers, Making the Grade), along with Samantha Corr. It was was co-produced by 2332 Films Ukraine and made with support from Screen Ireland, BBC Storyville, MetFilm Sales, France TV, and Creative Europe.

Palestine 36 (Palestine)

Palestine 36 (Palestine)





Annemarie Jacirs drama Palestine 36, which reconstructs the Palestinian revolt against British colonial rule in 1936, has been picked as Palestines official entry for Palestine for the Oscars international feature film race.

The selection of the timely film, which will soon premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, was made by an independent committee of Palestinian film professionals and confirmed by the Palestinian Ministry of Culture.

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Palestine 36 follows a young man named Yusuf who gets caught up in political upheaval as tensions rise in Jerusalem and his village amid British crackdowns prompted by the arrival of Jewish immigrants escaping antisemitism in Europe. The hot-button epic features a high-profile cast comprising Jeremy Irons as a colonial commissioner, Hiam Abbas (Succession), Liam Cunningham and Saleh Bakri (The Teacher).

Im Not Everything I Want to Be (Czech Republic)





The Czech Republic has selected Klara Tasovskas documentary feature Im Not Everything I Want to Be as its submission for the International Feature Film category of the Oscars following a controversial contest.

The documentary follows the life of photographer Libuse Jarcovjakova, drawing on her diaries and thousands of photographs. It depicts the underground movement in Czechoslovakia in the 1980s as well as her dramatic escape to West Berlin, and fashion shoots in Tokyo. The film had its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival last year and was awarded the Czech Lion for the best documentary feature this year.

Late Shift (Switzerland)





Petra Volpes Late Shift is Switzerlands official entry for the International Feature Film category for the Academy Awards.

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TrustNordisk is handling international rights on the film, which stars Leonie Benesch, who previously appeared in the Oscar-nominated drama The Teachers Lounge in 2023, and Oscar-nominated drama September 5 last year. Music Box has acquired North American rights.

Late Shift follows a nurse, Floria, as she navigates the relentless pace on a surgical ward with unwavering dedication, infusing humanity and warmth into her patient care even though the shift is understaffed. As the day intensifies, the film transforms into a gripping race against time, culminating in a riveting climax.

Read Varietys review here.

One of Those Days When Hemme Dies (Turkey)





Turkey has announced that first-time director Murat Firatoglus One of Those Days When Hemme Dies has been selected as the countrys entry for the Academy Awards international feature film category.

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One of Those Days When Hemme Dies was selected from 14 submissions by Turkeys Oscar committee, comprising representatives from professional associations in the countrys film industry that operates under the Directorate General of Cinema.

The film is a tale of class-based rage and rebellion through the justice-seeking journey of a farmworker named Eyup who works relentlessly under the blazing sun during a tomato harvest in southeastern Turkey, driven by the urgent need to settle an impending debt. After a clash with his supervisor, he roams the city in search of a radical solution.

One of Those Days When Hemme Dies world premiered last year at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the special jury prize in the events Orizzonti (Horizons) section.

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Credit: Splash News

Katie Holmes didn't make it to Copenhagen Fashion Week this year. However, the New Yorker's latest look suggests she kept tabs on Denmark's street style anyway, specifically, the shoe trends taking shape between the shows.

Last week, while ateliers like Cecilie Bahnsen and OperaSport staged their runways, fashion girls started their own slew of IRL trends. Studded ballet flats, in particular, grabbed Holmes's attention all the way in Manhattan. On August 11, three days after fashion week wrapped, she gave a black pair with silver spikes a go.

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While filming her rom-com, Happy Hours, they looked sleek alongside wide-leg jeans. Then, she tucked a white Tina Turner T-shirt into her bottoms, and popped on a black belt with gold hardware.

Katie Holmes was spotted on the Happy Hours set in studded ballerinas. | Credit: Splash News

Over the top, she styled a crimson button-down as a jacket (even though it was 88 Fahrenheit). Matching red sunglasses in a shield-ish shape finished the Dawson's Creek star's on-set outfit. Those pieces make Holmes the next celebrity to approve tomato girl summer, following Bella Hadid and Jennifer Lopez's lead.

Button Up Shirt



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Before now, Holmes hadn't publicly worn stud-covered shoes. If I didn't know any better, I'd say she saw them in Copenhagen and immediately placed an order.

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On August 5, a guest paired her all-white set to black studded ballet flats baring a shocking resemblance to Holmes's new purchase. A few days later, another attendee pulled off studded Mary Janes with the scarf belt fad. Perhaps the strapped silhouette will catch Holmes's eye next.

A guest wore studded ballet flats during Copenhagen Fashion Week. | Credit: Getty Images

Another fashion girl was spotted in studded Mary Janes. | Credit: Getty Images

At this point, Katie Holmes is the blueprint for any flat newbies. For over two decades, she's worn Mary Janes and ballerinas alike, from an Alaia pair in '08 to her trusty Mansur Gavriels. This week's studs are sending a message: Her collection is taking a maximalist turn.

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Ross Butler, the Singapore-born American actor, recently embarked on a whirlwind press tour across Asia for his new romantic comedy, Worth the Wait. The film, which features an ensemble cast of Asian-American actors, provided a special opportunity for Butler to connect with his heritage and experience a kind of homecoming. The tour included stops in Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and his birthplace, Singapore, where he engaged in a mix of promotional activities and personal exploration.

In Kuala Lumpur, the tour included a premiere for the film, giving Butler the chance to witness firsthand how audiences reacted to an all-Asian cast in a non-traditional "Asian story." He expressed his hope that such projects would encourage Hollywood to move beyond stereotypical portrayals and create more diverse content. Beyond his official duties, Butler took the time to explore the city's vibrant culture, with his activities often documented on social media. He visited famous landmarks such as Batu Caves and Dataran Merdeka, and even explored local markets like Petaling Street. During his stay, Butler revealed his deep affection for Malaysian food, particularly durian, which he confessed to being a "big durian guy" after trying it fresh for the first time. The actor also shared his love for curry laksa, proving he was fully embracing the local cuisine.

The tour also brought Butler back to Singapore, a place he hadn't visited since 2008. The return was especially meaningful for the actor, who was born there. In an interview with Vogue Singapore, he spoke about the changes he had observed and what Asian representation means to him today. He emphasized the importance of telling stories where Asian characters are simply "normal people," not defined solely by their ethnicity. While in Singapore, Butlers activities focused on press engagements and interviews, allowing him to reflect on his career and the significance of his latest role. He also spent time reconnecting with the city, enjoying a "staycay" experience and appreciating the local atmosphere. The tour not only promoted the film but also served as a personal journey for Butler, allowing him to celebrate his heritage and inspire a new generation of Asian storytellers and actors. Come back soon again, Butler!

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Noah Hawley stewed on an Alien spinoff years before FX even secured the rights. Now, Alien: Earth jumps to the small screen with all the eerie essentials of the Ridley Scott sci-fi classic: dread-soaked atmospheres, spine-tingling suspense, and, of course, those horrifying acid-blooded freaks. But this time, the Emmy-winning creator carved out a bold new nightmare that exists in parallel rather than a continuation of the film franchise. For production designer Andy Nicholson, it meant diving headfirst into the archives to craft fresh, striking motifs that didnt just nod to the past but expanded the iconic universe. The goal? To make it feel unmistakably Alien with a few surprises lurking in the shadows  all this while shooting in Thailand.

Noah is a very experienced showrunner and has a great mind to kick ideas around with, which for someone like me is very refreshing, Nicholson told IndieWire, who teamed with designer Jason Knox-Johnston to create the eight-episode haunt. His first question to Hawley was where, in the canon, visually and texturally, did the story take place? What we both really liked was the vision of the future that the makers of Alien had in 1979, the production designer said. That gave me a lot to play with because there were three principal jobs in this show. The Maginot, Prodigy City, and Neverland.

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For the story, chaos erupts after the USCSS Maginot, a Weyland-Yutani research ship, crash-lands in Prodigy City on Neverland, a research island founded by Prodigy Corps Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin). The two clash over the ships not-so-friendly cargo. Team Wey-Yu is led by a terminator-like cyborg, Morrow (Babou Ceesay), while Team Kavalier features a group of hybrids (synthetics with human consciousness) led by the insatiably curious Wendy (Sydney Chandler).

With Maginot, Nicholson took note of the Wey-Yu-owned USCSS Nostromo, which first appeared in the original film and then later in Alien: Romulus as wreckage. That ship remains a benchmark as a spaceship interior, and I believe at the time, elevated the art form of production design in terms of what it brought to it, he said. Noah and I talked about what we really liked on the inside of Nostromo that would be good for Maginot.

Nicholson studied the iconic ship frame by frame as few blueprints existed, working out set size and what details he should recreate and which to magnify. The result has Maginot boasting dark, industrial interiors and a peppering of futuristic flavor. Its utilitarian bridge hums with flickering monitors, exposed wires, and analog tech  tactile consoles fill the space. The most alluring: an escape room decked out with hundreds of small yellow lights and old-school monitors, a beacon of hope for those who can make it inside.

Theres a lovely period of European car interior and furniture design from the late 70s and 80s, which you can feel in Alien and a little bit less in Aliens. We were inspired by that but expanded it to include Noahs ideas about the future look, Nicholson said. Maginots exterior took on a new shape, inspired by the USS Sulaco from Alien with engine details nodding to the Nostromo as Easter eggs for fans.

The sets of Alien: Earth Patrick Brown

Creating the aftermath of Maginots wreckage in Prodigy City was another feat. Because of the schedule, we had to build crashed versions of some of the interiors first. Usually, you dont do this because its inefficient, but because we were shooting the scripts in episode order, we had to build damaged versions of the bridge, cyro chamber, and parts of a corridor, Nicholson said.

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It meant the team had to construct sets that could be easily swapped. For instance, the cryo chamber was designed with a collapsible ceiling. And one of the smashed corridors was made out of sections so it could be raised high in the air to mimic the same angle of the crashed aircraft. While most interior work, damaged or not, was constructed on soundstages, a sequence where Prodigy soldiers enter the ship through a hole in its hull was created on location.

That scene was all practically shot in Bangkok, Nicholson said. We found an empty shopping mall completely derelict. In the middle of it was a five-story atrium, so we built a 40-foot by 30-foot section of the Maginot on an angle and the outside of the hull on the shopping mall. Then we bridged the gap with a twisted beam. So that whole first entry into the ship had very minimal set extension, only to give it a bit of depth for low and high shots.

Prodigy City and Neverland was inspired by Thailands lush environment and architecture. With an episodic, the audience needs to know on a very basic level exactly where they are when you jump from one scene to another. You need to know youre in different parts of Neverland and that its different from the Maginot, Nicholson explained. So when I started to think about what Neverland should look like, the amount of concrete that was in Bangkok made it an interesting city. Theres some lovely brutalist architecture which is quite remarkable, thinking this could be a good look for some of Neverland.

The sets of Alien: Earth Patrick Brown/FX

The main street of Prodigy City was found near their production offices, distinguishing itself by its abandoned stores and natural patina. Adding to the look was the work of graphic designer Neville Brody. He did a lot of seminal pieces of the 1980s. Its that lovely period in graphic design when everything was mainly letter set and wasnt just done on a computer. I looked at his style and used that for a lot of the street signs and shop signs. It just felt like it worked for the location, Nicholson said.

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For Prodigy Corporation, Nicholson sought a building that had scale that didnt rely on being a massive visual effects backdrop. If you notice shots of Prodigy airships landing, there are elements that poke out from the jungle, Nicholson said. The idea of that is when youre shooting on the ground, you can put a very recognizable silhouette in the background that lets you know were somewhere outside Neverland without having to see the big buildings.

Interiors were designed to be multifunctional, while others, like the main lab, stood alone. Large air vents hinted at Prodigy Corps lax security, perfect for lurking aliens. Even Boy Cavaliers sleek office wasnt spared. Not having rooms that were safe for anybody to be in helps amplify the threat, Nicholson said. So we made corridors you can never quite see around the corner, and all the windows are frosted so you dont quite know whats waiting on the other side.

The sets of Alien: Earth Patrick Brown/FX

The lab holding the alien life hostage was designed with a muted color palette and tone. We wanted the people and the creatures to stand out from the background, Nicholson said. Theres a fiberglass finish with vinyl flooring in the corridors, so nothing was popping too much.

Opposite, Wey-Yu Corp makes only a brief appearance in the series. One such instance is a sequence involving a phone call that was shot at Bangkoks Park Origin Thonglor Complex, which sustained substantial damage following a massive earthquake in March 2025. (Filming began in July 2023 with a touch over 120 shooting days, including areas of Phuket, Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Krabi, and the soundstage at The Studio Park in Samut Prakan.)

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Transforming imagination into immersive nightmare fuel allowed the Thai set dressing team to flex their expertise. They were able to bring back things that were so perfect that you wouldnt be able to find in the UK or America. Stuff you need to recreate the things used to such great effect by Michael Seymour and Roger Christian on the original film, Nicholson said. We werent trying to copy what they were doing, but be inspired by that, and they should get credit for that.



The entire Alien: Earth production team should get credit, too, for expanding on Seymours and Christians work in the original, hopefully in a way that they  if not exactly Wey-Yu Corp  would approve.

Alien: Earth premieres August 12 on FX with new episodes weekly.

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Shannon Beador is once again in car trouble. The Real Housewives of Orange County star was given a traffic citation last May but she insists that she didnt do anything wrong.

This is her second bout of trouble with traffic-related issues. In 2023, she was arrested for a hit and run and DUI. The aftermath played out on Season 18 of RHOC. It wasnt an easy season for Shannon in general, but it looked like she had moved on from those mistakes. However, she was pulled over again recently for breaking another law.

Shannon Beador was caught on her phone behind the wheel almost two years after her DUI

The RHOC and Love Hotel star was pulled over and cited in Orange County last May for operating a handheld wireless telephone or electronic wireless communication device behind the wheel.

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However, according to Shannon, she didnt do anything wrong. She spilled her side on Kelly Ripas Lets Talk Off Camera podcast.

Everythings fine! I was coming from an interview confessional, and I got a new puppy, and when I was at a red light, my phone buzzed, Shannon explained. She emphasized that she wasnt driving when she looked at it and then quickly put the phone down.

According to Shannon, thats when the police officer stopped her, citing Californias no-touch phone law. The law prohibits drivers from making physical contact with their mobile phones. Shannon claimed however, that the cop pulled her over before the new law went into effect.

Its not a moving violation, but people like to report, Shannon shared. She admitted the ordeal was triggering for her and she asked the police officer what she did wrong. When he replied that she was texting, she said, I wasnt. I was at a red light, picked the phone up and put it down.

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Shannon, who is on probation until November 2026, is required to pay a $20 fine (for first time offenders) but wont receive any points on her record.

The Real Housewives of Orange County continues Thursdays at 9/8c on Bravo. It streams on Hayu in the UK and Ireland.

TELL US  DO YOU THINK SHANNON DIDNT DO ANYTHING WRONG?

The post RHOCs Shannon Beador Says She Didnt Do Anything Wrong After Recent Traffic Citation appeared first on Reality Tea.
NEED TO KNOW

Former Kentucky clerk Kim Davis recently filed a request to the Supreme Court to overturn its landmark 2015 ruling in favor of same-sex marriage

Sally Fields son Sam Greisman weighed in on social media, calling Davis a hideous bitch

Davis spent days behind bars for controversially refusing to grant marriage licenses to couples in 2015

Sally Fields son Sam Greisman isnt mincing words when it comes to same-sex marriage opponent Kim Davis.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Sam, 37, wrote, "Not this hideous bitch again." His words were a response to headlines about a recent legal filing from Davis, 59, requesting that the U.S. Supreme Court overturn its 2015 decision that same-sex couples have the constitutional right to marry.

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The court's landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges stemmed from 16 same-sex couple plaintiffs in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee filing federal district court cases over their right to marriage licenses, leading to the legalization of gay marriage in all 50 states in 2015.

Davis, a former Kentucky county clerk, refused to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples following Obergefell v. Hodges, citing religious exemption based on the Constitutions first amendment. Several couples sued her in Miller v. Davis, which she appealed to the Supreme Court.

After that application to appeal was denied, Davis continued to refuse to issue marriage licenses and was arrested for contempt of court, spending almost a week behind bars. During that time, her deputies issued licenses in her stead. The mother of four, a Republican who identifies as an Apostolic Christian, then lost reelection in the county clerk position to a Democrat in 2018.

Not this hideous bitch again https://t.co/hQLWxiUQoh  sam greisman (@SAMGREIS) August 11, 2025

In 2023, a jury awarded gay couple David Ermold and David Moore $100,000, while in 2024, a federal judge also ruled that Davis must pay $260,000 in fees to attorneys representing those who sought marriage licenses from her office.

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Davis actions sparked nationwide debate, leading both 2016 presidential election candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump to weigh in. Marriage equality is the law of the land. Officials should be held to their duty to uphold the lawend of story, wrote Clinton on X at the time.

Reacting to her jail time, Trump said at the time that Davis would have to go with the Supreme Courts ruling, adding, The decisions been made, and that is the law of the land.

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Sam, a writer-producer, wasnt the only X user to call Davis out for hypocrisy over her upholding the sanctity of marriage after multiple divorces. The Wisconsin-based non-profit Freedom From Religion Foundation reacted by pointing out that divorce rates are lower under gay couples than straight couples, adding, But, Kim Daviss four marriages are really helping to skew the numbers in their favor.

Alex Wong/Getty Kim Davis in 2016 Kim Davis in 2016

Field, 78, shares her two elder sons, Peter and Eli, with her first husband, Steven Craig, and Sam, with her second husband, Alan Greisman.

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The Oscar winner has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her decades in the spotlight. "I'm fighting for the future of my son, she told The Advocate in 2022, referring to her and Sams activism in support of the Equality Act. "I certainly fight for my son's future, to love who he chooses to love, and to get married and have children.

Read the original article on People




NEED TO KNOW

Vanna White shared a photo of herself with Pat Sajak after she visited Hawaii to see him in a play

"It was great catching up and spending time with him," she captioned the sweet post

The two co-hosted Wheel of Fortune for over four decades until Sajak's exit in June 2024





Vanna White and Pat Sajak have reunited, at last!

On Tuesday, Aug. 12, the TV personality, 68, shared a photo on Instagram of herself with her former Wheel of Fortune co-host, 78, after she visited Hawaii to see him in his play, Prescription: Murder.

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"Had the pleasure of seeing Pats awesome performance on stage in Hawaii last weekend! It was great catching up and spending time with him! #foreverfriends," she captioned the sweet post.

The first picture featured the pair embracing each other while at a restaurant. White rocked a colorful short-sleeved shirt for the outing, and Sajak wore a simple long-sleeved white shirt. She wrapped her arm around her pal as he leaned on the table with his arms crossed.

Another photo showed White posing in front of the marquee at the Hawaii Theatre in Honolulu, where the former host was performing.

Fans shared their excitement over the reunion in the comments section, with one writing, "The worlds favorite besties!!!"

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Related: https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Another commented, "Nice that yall are staying in touch."

Sajak replaced Chuck Woolery on Wheel of Fortune in 1981. White joined the show the following year as a co-host. Sajak exited the series in June 2024. However, he hosted Celebrity Wheel of Fortune until 2025.

Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Vanna White and Pat Sajak on 'Celebrity Wheel of Fortune' Vanna White and Pat Sajak on 'Celebrity Wheel of Fortune'

Sajak was succeeded by Ryan Seacrest, who now co-hosts with White.

During Sajaks four decades on the show, he earned a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame and the Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award.

He also holds the Guinness World Records title for having the longest career as a game show host for the same show.

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Whites latest Instagram post is her first post with Sajak since his departure from the popular game show. She shared two photos with the former host in June 2024, writing, "From the sand , to the snow , and the many roads traveled in between - what a wonderful ride its been!"

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories.

In April, White opened up her off-screen relationship with Sajak after his exit from the series, telling TV Insider that he is "still in my life."

"I still see him! Were friends," she said, adding that they "have dinner" together sometimes.

Read the original article on People
Prince Harry & Prince Williams rift might be at an all-time high due to their incredible disdain for each other. But it also begs the question of how their mother Princess Diana would have intervened if she were still alive today.

Dianas biographer Andrew Morton told People that the rift between the brothers acts as a great loss for the monarchy. We all remember the days when Harry and William were joshing with one another, and it all seemed set for their relationship and the future  that Harry, as Diana always used to say, would be Williams wingman, the author said.

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He continued, Diana always used to say she had two boys for a reason  the younger would be there to support the older in the lonely task as future King. There is no doubt Diana would have tried to act as a peacemaker between them. If she had been around, they would have worked things out in a different way.

Related: Princess Diana Made an Eerie Warning About Prince William Before Her Death & It Just Came True

On Dianas birthday, the brothers separately made tributes to her. Prince Harry set out on a tour of Angola to recreate the walk that Princess Diana took across an Angola minefield in 1997. This is a continuing trend, as Prince Harry also did this in 2019 and 2024.

As a father to young children, it breaks my heart to see innocent children still living and playing next to minefields, the Duke of Sussex said in a statement. All of us have a duty to protect children and future generations from the harms of war, both present and past.

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Meanwhile, Prince William went to Sheffield to mark the second anniversary of Homewards, the initiative he launched in 2023 by pledging $3.8 million to six different regions in the U.K. to make homelessness, as he said, rare, brief and unrepeated. Diana made homelessness a cause she deeply cared for and advocated her sons to be involved in prevention as well when she would bring them to homeless shelters at a young age.

Fast forward nearly three decades after her death, Dianas sons are in a irreparable rift and no longer talk to each other. This comes as The Daily Beast reported that, according to a friend of William, He absolutely fing hates his brother Harry. That same source told the outlet that, William will never, ever forgive Harry for what he has done. Charles is the king; he can do what he likes. But make no mistake: William believes with every fiber of his being that giving Harry and Meghan back any royal imprimatur is a huge mistake.

However, it seems like Harry and his father Charles are on the path of reconciling. Senior aides for the two have met, in what is considered a first step towards reconciliation, and the lines of communication are now open for the first time in a while.

Newssite Closer revealed that despite it all, he might reach out to his brother. Harry desperately wants his brothers involvement, or at least his blessing  and he wants to be able to return to his homeland without fearing tension or drama, as he strongly feels its what their mother would have wanted. But William is hesitant. He doesnt want Meghan anywhere near a project about Diana. For him, it should only be about the brothers. Williams still hurt by the public attacks and sees no reason to patch things up on Harrys timetable.

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Whether or not the brothers will leave their beef to the side, their situation in the present would never be favorable to Diana. This is the sadness of it  they arent supporting each other like they should be, a source close to the royal household told People. Thats what any mother would want  that they are there for each other.

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Planning for trips can sometimes be one of the best parts about travel. But all the talk about tariffs from the Trump administration has some consumers wondering what travel costs will be like next year.

Check Out: I Asked ChatGPT the Best Travel Hacks To Save Money in 2025: Heres What It Said

Read Next: 7 Tax Loopholes the Rich Use To Pay Less and Build More Wealth

For those who are thinking about where to go in 2026  and how to travel on the cheap  here are four recommendations from travel experts for cheap spots to get away without breaking the budget.

American Southwest

One place to consider is the American Southwest.

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This part of the country is becoming a goldmine for budget travelers, said Jasmine Charbonier, a travel expert and founder of Your Tampa Bestie. The whole region is investing heavily in tourism infrastructure while keeping prices low to attract visitors.

According to Budget Your Trip, a trip to Phoenix, Arizona, costs an average of $276 per day, while travelers will spend an average of $165 per day in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Explore More: 6 US Cities Where You Can Still Enjoy a Luxury Vacation for Cheap

Montana

Charbonier called Montana a hot secret.

Those fancy mountain lodges that used to cost a fortune? Theyre scrambling to fill rooms now that international tourisms shifting, she said. According to the Mountain Journal, visitor statistics are showing a decline in bookings and travel plans, particularly from international visitors.

Portugal

According to Charbonier, her go-to recommendation for Europe is Portugal. Shes seeing some four-star hotels going for $85 per night for advance bookings. Plus, she said the food is cheap as well.

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According to Budget Your Trip, a traveler will spend just $191 per day, on average, in Portugal. It noted that Portugal is a moderately priced place to visit when compared with other countries in Europe.

Southeast Asia

Malaysias becoming the new Thailand  but without the crowds, Charbonier said. Ive been sending lots of clients to Penang lately  you can still get beachfront resorts for under $100 per night. The street food scenes incredible and dirt cheap.

According to Marguerita Cheng, CFP, travel expert and CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth, not only are Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam affordable and accessible, but they offer something for just about any traveler.

From beaches to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage sites, there is truly something for everyone, Cheng said. Cuisine from Southeast Asia is incredibly diverse. Each country has its signature dishes.

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Further, Cheng said Asia has perfected the indoor shopping mall  another reason its a great spot for travel in 2026.

Consider Booking Now

If you want to get better deals, Charbonier said you should book now.

Heres the thing about these tariff impacts, theyre making everything weird, Charbonier said. Airlines are already adjusting their long-term pricing strategies. Some hotels are practically begging for advance bookings. Theyre offering crazy incentives.

According to Travel Weekly, tariffs may cause an increase in the prices of hotels, airlines and cruise ships, as well as imported goods associated with leisure. Planning ahead and booking in advance for a 2026 vacation could help you save on costs and avoid any potential price increases.

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Editors note on political coverage: GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively and present balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. You can find more coverage of this topic on GOBankingRates.com.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Cheap Travel Spots for 2026  and Why You Should Plan Now
Do you ever feel like American fast food chains are playing it way too safe on home turf? While were stuck with the same old nuggets and fries, international counterparts are living it up with some truly mind-blowing menu innovations that would make the lot of us weep with envy.

After diving deep into the global fast food scene, here are the most drool-worthy items that have us questioning why we cant have nice things. These arent just gimmicky social media stunts  theyre legit menu items that millions of people around the world get to enjoy while were settling for predictably boring options.

With that in mind, here are the international fast food offerings that are about to make you seriously jealous.

KFCs Deep-Fried Oreos (South Africa)

Image Credit: Instagram / KFC South Africa

You read that right. The undisputed king of the state fair makes tantalizing, limited-time appearances on the fast-food scene, but only in South Africa. While were over here pretending that a soggy biscuit counts as dessert, KFC occasionally drops Deep-Fried Oreos on its menu. It takes Americas favorite cookie, gives it the Colonels signature fried treatment, and serves it up with a side of creamy vanilla soft-serve ice cream, chocolate drizzle, and rainbow sprinkles.

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Imagine a warm, gooey Oreo center wrapped in a crispy, golden shell. Its the kind of beautiful madness that makes its temporary status all the more painful for the rest of us. Why are we being denied this masterpiece?

McDonalds McChoconuts (France)

Image Credit: Reddit / StupidFood / sonsoflarson

The French have always had a way with pastry, but McDonalds France took it to another level with the McChoconuts (first introduced as a limited-time offering in 2020, and brought back multiple times since).

Picture this: a warm brioche bun filled with a melting choconut-flavored puck, topped with peanut chips, peanut butter drizzle, and finished with a generous sprinkling of M&Ms. Its a made-to-order dessert that combines multiple textures and flavors in ways that would make Dunkin Donuts executives weep into their basic glazed offerings.

The brioche bun alone elevates this beyond typical fast food desserts, and lets be honest, anything topped with M&Ms is automatically better.

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The Reality Check: While were debating whether the McFlurry machine is working, the French are getting artisanal-level desserts at their local Mickey Ds. Cest la vie, indeed.

Wendys Creamy Cheesecake (Puerto Rico)

Image Credit: Facebook / Wendys Puerto Rico

Puerto Ricos Wendys locations serve up something that would make New York cheesecake fans take notice: a Creamy Cheesecake with an irresistible dulzura (sweetness) and a delicious hazelnut cream topping.

While mainland Americans are stuck with basic Frostys as their only dessert option, Puerto Rican customers are getting this specialty Frosty-style dessert that takes the frozen treat concept to the next level.

Reviews suggest its actually creamy, rich, and topped with a hazelnut sauce that adds sophistication to the whole experience. Its the kind of dessert that could easily cost $8 at a sit-down restaurant, but its available through a drive-thru window.

KFCs Churro Pop Cone (South Africa)

Image Credit: Twitter / KFC South Africa

At this point, it feels like South Africas just showing off. The Rainbow Nation strikes again with another dessert innovation that makes our KFC dessert game look pathetic. The Churro Pop Cone takes the beloved Spanish pastry and gives it the KFC treatment, creating a handheld dessert thats both familiar and completely revolutionary.

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Its essentially a waffle cone packed with actual churro pieces and drizzled with chocolate saucea genius mashup that transforms churros into the ultimate grab-and-go indulgence. Its crispy, its sweet, and it delivers all the satisfaction of traditional churros without the mess.

The Reality Check: Our KFC dessert options are so limited that many locations dont even bother with a dessert menu. Meanwhile, South Africa is out here innovating with churros.

McDonalds Poutine (Canada)

Image Credit: McDonalds Canada

Our neighbors to the north have been rubbing this one in our faces for years. McDonalds Poutine isnt just regular poutine  its the fast food chains take on Canadas national dish, complete with golden fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy that actually tastes good.

But wait, theres more: Canadian McDonalds also offers Spicy Buffalo Chicken Poutine in Quebec, which adds crispy seasoned chicken pieces and buffalo sauce to the classic combination. Its comfort food meets fast food efficiency, and its available year-round at locations just a few hours drive from many American cities.

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The fact that this exists so close to our border yet remains completely unavailable to us feels like a personal insult. We share the worlds longest undefended border, but apparently not our menu items.

KFCs Fried Cookie Dough (Australia)

Image Credit: Reddit / kfc / RS-1990

Heading down under, KFC Australia is giving us the one dessert weve always been told to avoid, but in the best way possible. In a limited-time debut, they offered bites of fried cookie dough, a treat that sounds like it was pulled straight from our childhood dreams.

Imagine everything you love about sneaking a spoonful of dough from the bowl, but now its safely warmed through, with a perfectly melty, chocolate-chippy center and a crispy exterior. Its the forbidden snack, finally made gloriously legitimate.

Whats particularly maddening is that Australia already had KFCs beloved Double Chocolate Mousse (which replaced their original chocolate mousse in 2022), and then they went ahead and added fried cookie dough to the mix. Meanwhile, American KFC locations can barely keep their biscuits consistently available.

KFCs Fried Shrimp Donut (Thailand)

Image Credit: KFC Thailand

Hold onto your buckets, because this one is a game-changer. Thailands KFC took the concept of surf-and-turf and ran it through a deep fryer with their Fried Shrimp Donut. Blurring the lines between savory and sweet in the most brilliant way possible, KFC Thailand gives you a savory donut stuffed with seasoned shrimp and fried to crispy perfection.

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The genius here is in the execution: the donut provides a sweet, bread-like base that complements the savory shrimp filling, creating a flavor combination thats both unexpected and completely logical. Its the kind of innovative thinking that American fast food chains used to be known for before they got comfortable with their market dominance.

The Reality Check: While were arguing about whether pineapple belongs on pizza, Thailand is putting shrimp in donuts and apparently making it work beautifully.

McDonalds Big Arch Burger (Canada)

Image Credit: McDonalds Canada

While were still jealous about the poutine situation, Canada has another ace up their sleeve: the Big Arch Burger. It has all the good stufftwo quarter-pound beef patties, three slices of white cheese, crispy and slivered onions, lettuce, pickles, and a special Big Arch saucebut without the controversial middle bun.

For years, fans have complained that the extra bread gets in the way. Canada listened. This is the streamlined, meatier version of the Big Mac that so many of us have been asking for all along.

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Initially launched in Canada and Portugal in August 2024, it has since expanded to additional markets like the UK but remains frustratingly absent from U.S. menus.

The Reality Check: The country that gave us super-sizing is somehow getting out-sized by Canada. Let that sink in.

Read the original article on GEEKSPIN.

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I was born and raised in New Providence, the most popular Bahamian island.

Many visitors make the same mistakes, from eating fast food to overpaying for basic goods at hotels.

I encourage tourists to visit more than one island since many are just a day trip away from Nassau.

My family has lived in The Bahamas since 1783. Like my ancestors, I was born and raised in New Providence, one of The Bahamas' most heavily touristed islands.

Over the years, I've spent a substantial amount of time around tourists.

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After working in tourism for three of my university summers and taking a job at Atlantis' Mandara Spa for a year, I've witnessed visitors make a fair share of unfortunate missteps.

As a proud Bahamian resident of three decades and counting, I want travelers to avoid making these common mistakes to maximize their time visiting my home and show it proper respect.

Only visiting New Providence and Paradise Island

The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in The Bahamas. Pola Damonte/Getty Images

New Providence and Paradise Island (the home of Atlantis Bahamas) are world-famous vacation destinations, leading many people to assume that the islands are the only places worth visiting here.

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However, there's much more to see and do in The Bahamas.

The Bahamas are an archipelago of 700 islands and 2,400 cays across the Atlantic Ocean, and only 30 of those islands are inhabited and open to visitors.

Some of those islands include The Exumas, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Bimini, Andros, Long Island, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and San Salvador. Each of the eight Bahamian islands I've visited in my lifetime has a distinct and unique feel.

Not island-hopping during your trip

My friends and I went on a boating adventure when we were on Rose Island. Nicole Bedford

Tourism is The Bahamas' biggest industry. Even though interacting with travelers is part of daily life, New Providence, specifically, can feel overcrowded by visitors.

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So instead of settling in one place, I recommend island-hopping to more remote locations.

Travelers can visit salt deposits in Inagua, swim with pigs in Exuma, and dive over 600 feet into the ocean to explore Dean's Blue Hole off of Long Island.

As long as visitors are willing to explore beyond New Providence (Exuma and Rose Island are just a day trip away), they'll find that The Bahamas has something for everyone.

Eating fast food instead of local Bahamian cuisine

A Bahamian conch salad. Nicole Bedford

Like many Western countries, The Bahamas has a lot of fast-food places like McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC.

Still, I get disheartened when I see tourists eat at these spots in downtown Nassau instead of grabbing a table at a local Bahamian eatery.

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The Bahamas has a rich cuisine, from fresh fish to ceviche made with a sea mollusk called conch (pronounced "conk").

Visitors who try to find real Bahamian food often fall into the trap of going to places that are marketed as authentic but are actually commercialized shells of what they used to be.

Luckily, there are still restaurants that serve great Bahamian food, like Gone Fish'n, Drifters, Frankie Gone Bananas, and Curly's. I always tell newcomers to find real, local dishes under the Paradise Island Bridge.

The Family Islands, the name for the islands outside New Providence, are also filled with excellent Bahamian food, like grouper fingers and fries.

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Never leaving your resort to explore the surrounding areas

Island House is a hotel in New Providence. Nicole Bedford

I've seen many travelers check into grand resorts  like Baha Mar, Atlantis, or Sandals  and remain there for the duration of their trip.

This hotel-centric itinerary is excellent for the properties, but isn't great for the island. Plus, it's a missed opportunity for visitors to explore.

Nassau has so many sites to see, so much culture to experience, and so many locals to interact with. Staying within the confines of a hotel is a common yet significant misstep.

Not preparing for prices that may be higher than what you're used to back home

One of my favorite meals in a conch salad with a Bahamian beer. Nicole Bedford

The Bahamas is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Things like hotel rooms, groceries, and restaurants are more expensive here than they are in places like the US or Canada.

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Many tourists who don't research The Bahamas beforehand complain about the high cost of food, taxis, and cocktails upon arrival.

However, so much of what we have here is imported, which can result in high costs. Eating out at restaurants can be pretty pricey, especially considering most places add gratuity and VAT (value-added tax) on restaurant bills.

Definitely do some number-crunching ahead of time so you can better budget for your trip.

Skipping local heritage sites and monuments

Clifton Pier Heritage Site is located on New Providence. Nicole Bedford

A lot of tourists fail to carve out time to learn about The Bahamas, but missing out on the local culture and history does them a disservice.

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In Nassau, you can visit places like Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, The Water Tower, The Queen's Staircase, Clifton Heritage National Park, and more. Many museums, like the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, house works created by talented local artists.

A visit to John Watling's Distillery, a historic building that's been converted into a rum distillery, is also a crucial stop in Nassau.

Only going to downtown Nassau for duty-free shopping and luxury items

There are plenty of shops that carry goods crafted by local artisans. Nicole Bedford

Many visitors walk through downtown Nassau in search of duty-free luxury items, but the area has more to offer than just designer handbags, Cuban cigars, jewelry, and fancy perfumes.

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Instead, check out the locally crafted goods and souvenirs. Nassau has a well-known straw market. Plus, Bahamian artisans sell authentic straw bags, conch-shell jewelry, and handmade wood carvings, and other items.

Planning a visit during hurricane season, then complaining about the weather

The Bahamas are filled with hundreds of gorgeous beaches. Nicole Bedford

A lot of the visitors who arrive on our shores during the summer months (June through November) have no idea they're coming in the middle of hurricane season. Ergo, it's going to rain a lot.

When I worked at a souvenir stall in Nassau in the summer, I'd hear lots of tourists complain about the rain. To assuage their misgivings, I'd tell them the precipitation was "liquid sunshine."

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Underestimating how easy it is to get a sunburn

Rose Island is just a day trip away from New Providence. Nicole Bedford

The Bahamian sun's strength shouldn't be underestimated. Since we tend to have a high UV index, people can get sunburned pretty badly by just walking around the island.

It's a good idea to wear (and reapply) sunscreen throughout the day. Additionally, remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen and avoid aerosol versions to protect the natural environment.

Not staying vigilant and aware of their surroundings

Eleuthera is just a short trip away from New Providence. Nicole Bedford

Travelers, particularly female solo travelers, should always remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings as they explore new places.

Like any big city, New Providence has crime, ranging from petty attempts to swindle tourists at the local straw market to armed robberies.

To mitigate these issues, the government of The Bahamas and The Royal Bahamas Police Force have stationed officers in downtown New Providence.

Of course, it's always a good idea to stay alert wherever you go.

Forgetting to carve out plenty of time to watch the gorgeous sunsets

Yobab/Getty Images

Visitors should build plenty of time for sunsets into their itinerary.

Every island in The Bahamas offers its own special vantage point of the sunset. My all-time favorite place to watch the sun go down is on a beach in western New Providence.

There's nothing more calming and tranquil than listening to the waves crash, watching the colors change across the sky, and seeing the sun dip beneath the horizon.

This story was originally published on July 19, 2022, and most recently updated on August 13, 2025.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In a new column, a travel expert warned against traveling to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world - for exactly that reason. Travel insider Christopher Elliott noted that 73 percent of travelers are worried about over-tourism with more than half actively avoiding popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Thailand.

Over-tourism weakens destinations by straining infrastructure and depleting resources, said Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue. It leaves them ill-equipped to handle crises, whether its a natural disaster or a surge in crime.

With over-tourism concerns in mind, Elliott created a list of destinations to avoid while offering alternatives.

Popular Travel Destinations to Avoid

Thailand: Elliott said Thailands tropical islands "have long been a magnet for travelers looking for sun, sand, and affordability," but believes there are just too many tourists flocking to the area now as experts advice travelers "to steer clear of places like Phuket, Pattaya and Krabi."

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Greece and Croatia: Elliott warned against travel to both Croatia and Greece due to over-tourism overwhelming the nations and their people. "With just 41,000 residents, its struggling to handle the influx of tourists. Tourists have caused traffic jams and, on busy days, have made the city almost completely inaccessible," he said of Dubrovnik.

Europe's major cities: "You know what I'm talking about: Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Venice. These European cities are grappling with anti-tourist sentiment fueled by rising housing costs and overcrowding. Add record-breaking heat waves, and youve got a recipe for a miserable trip," Elliott said.

Where to Go Instead

While he noted where not to go, Elliott also gave informed alternatives for those looking to travel to similar locations - without the crowds.

"Try Chiang Mai, in the northern part of Thailand, which is less touristy and calmer, or Bangkok, which has more room  and better shopping," Elliott said of those thinking about travel to Thailand.

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Those looking at Croatia should focus their search on Split or Zagreb and he noted "Athens and Thessaloniki are always safe bets" for those seeking travel to Greece.

Finally for the major European destinations, Elliott told traveler to "get off the beaten path - even just a little."

"I spent last July in Berlin, and was impressed with how uncrowded it was. I also spent time in Helsinki and northern Sweden, and managed to escape the crowds. Even August in Stockholm isn't so bad because many residents leave town for a month," he said.

Related: United, Frontier CEOs Offer Major Warning to Travelers

Expert Warns Against Travel to These Popular Tourist Destinations first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
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Credit: Emma Spedding

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels , a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

When I was boarding my flight from London to Colombo, Sri Lanka, in January, I was admiring the outfit of the woman behind me, and I realized she was actually my frienda Jetset PR rep who was embarking on the same holiday as I was. This moment was confirmation that the south coast of Sri Lanka has become the winter sun hot spot. Over five friends were starting January with a kottu-filled escape, including a considerable number of my fellow British Vogue editors.

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You can build a varied itinerary in Sri Lankafollowing leopards in Yala National Park, taking a train that winds through the lush tea region, and climbing the rock fortress Sigiriyaas it is a popular multistop touring destination. Since 2024, Sri Lanka has seen a significant boom in tourism following a number of turbulent decades for the country. There was the crushing impact of the tsunami in 2004, the civil war that ended in 2009, and an economic collapse in 2022 that led many foreign offices to advise against travel to the region. A number of hotel openings and new infrastructure (in 2024, a 300-kilometer hiking route through tea plantations called the Pekoe Trail opened) are leading to a tourism boom in the region.

For those looking to traverse less distance and embrace a slower pace, I advise you snake along the south coast. It is dotted with surfing villages, jungle retreats, and colonial architecture, making it a new hub for wellness and sunshine seekers. The region is often likened to Bali before it became a victim of overtourism. "There's something about Sri Lanka's southern coast that gets under your skin," says Helen Bailey, global head of PR and brand communications at Mr & Mrs Smith. "[It's] a heady mix of salt, spice, and languid afternoons watching the surf roll ingolden beaches, swaying palms, and the easy, leisurely rhythm of island life."

The weather in the south coast is ideal between November and April, making it the perfect winter escape for sunseekers in the northern hemisphere. Days in Ahangama and Hiriketiya follow a similar pace with early mornings in the waves, egg hoppers and coconut sambol for breakfast, rickshaw rides through rice fields to hidden beach spots, and curry-fueled sunsetsa barefoot lifestyle that is also attractive to those who don't have any intention of getting on a surfboard. Like Puerto Escondido, Mexico, design-led boutique hotels have elevated these sleepy towns beyond surf shacks and hostels. However the area hasn't lost its magic with the construction. "This stretch is a sweet spot," explains Bailey. "[It's] less developed than the west coast but buzzing with just the right amount of energy. The surfing scene is world-class, the boutique hotels are effortlessly stylish, and there's a food revolution underway, blending traditional Sri Lankan flavors with a modern, global touch."

The whole of the south coast has the same spirit to it, so you can play with your itinerary depending on the level of adventure you are seeking. You'll see monkeys darting through the trees and turtles along the coastline, and for more wildlife, you can add on a trip to Yala to spot a leopard, Udawalawe for elephants, and Mirissa for whale watching. Other notable spots include surf town Ahangama, Koggala Lake, the Galle fort, and Dickwella Beach.

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There's much more to it than postcard-worthy palm tree views, explains travel journalist Sophie Hay. "Beyond the scenery, the community here is something special," she says. "A mix of expats and locals are thoughtfully developing the area, bringing exciting new businesses while keeping sustainability and local culture in mind. People often compare it to Bali 10 years ago, but I think there's more to it than that. Many of the new businessesfrom hotels to surf schoolsare making an effort to give back, whether through community surf classes, English lessons for local children, or mindful development that avoids overtourism."

Keep reading for stylish hotels, surf schools, the best beach bars, and more.

Where to Stay

Credit: Amangalla

In 2005, the Aman hotel group opened an opulent, charming hotel within the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Galle Dutch Fort district. Rebuilt by the Dutch in the 17th century, it was a former military headquarters and then was later taken over by British soldiers and became a hotel in 1863. "Step into the old-world charm of Amangalla, tucked inside Galle Fort's historic walls," adds Bailey. "With its antique four-poster beds, whirring ceiling fans, and a colonial-era veranda, it's the kind of place that feels timeless. Stroll the 17th century ramparts at golden hour, stopping by boutiques and galleries before sinking into a rattan chair for an arrack sour in the library. Come evening, the candlelit dining room serves up Sri Lankan classics. Don't miss the crab curry."

"Wild Coast Tented Lodge was my favorite of the four hotels I stayed at across Sri Lanka," says travel journalist Gina Jackson. "This safari hotel is tucked within thick jungle and perched along the coastline right by Yala National Park. You'll bed down in cocooning glamping pods that are kitted out with luxe four-poster beds and copper rolltops and head out on sunrise or sunset game drives each day before winding down by the pool. Staying here is an incredibly unique experience and the most luxurious location to experience safari in Yala."

Credit: Kurulu Bay

"For a change of pace, head to Ahangama, where surf, style, and creativity collide," says Bailey. "This once-sleepy fishing village is now a hot spot for digital nomads, designers, and surfers drawn to its laid-back energy. Here, you'll find espresso bars, jungle-fringed yoga studios, and buzzy beachfront cafes. Stay at Kurulu Bay, a tranquil jungle retreat perched on the shores of Koggala Lake, offering a serene escape from the buzz of the coast while still being just minutes away from the action." At this 1960s modernismstyle resort, tree houses are nestled into the lush vegetation, all framing the panoramic view of the lake, and some of the rooms even come with their own private plunge pools.

Where to Dine

Credit: Smoke and Bitters

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Smoke and Bitters is poised above Dickwella Beach and is considered one of the best places to eat and drink on the island. Plus, it was recently named one of Asia's top 50 bars. Everyone who has been to the south coast will recommend you come here, and I found it more than lived up to the hype with its inventive recipes that are cooked over wood fires using Ceylon flavors. Don't leave without trying the Smoking Goat.

Credit: Ceylon Sliders

Hay says Ceylon Sliders is her favorite restaurant on the island thanks to its "simple but delicious dishes." As for what to order, she advises, "I still dream about their yellowfin tuna." It's all you would want from a surf spotfrom sunrise breakfasts to spicy margs at sunsetwhere waves crash onto the terrace. You'll at least want to leave with one of the Sliders T-shirts.

My friend, a journalist and expert traveler, recommended I try this cooking class in Hiriketiya, and it was an evening I'll never forget. It's almost remarkable that Rosie, the host, isn't a TikTok celebrity already, as she teaches you how to make roti and curries while telling you hilarious stories about her rich life. In the kitchen, a group of amazing women cook up a feast of over 20 curries that you eat along with your own dishes after the lesson. Rosie has created an empowering, female-led space and would laugh that "no naughty beach boys were allowed" in her kitchen.

Where to Shop

Credit: Stick No Bills

"Located in Galle, this boutique is more than just a shop. It's a business dedicated to preserving and celebrating Sri Lanka's visual heritage," says Bailey. "Specializing in vintage travel posters, postcards, and retro-inspired artwork, the brand draws inspiration from the golden age of travel, blending nostalgia with bold, contemporary design. Founded by adventurers Meg Gage Williams and Philip James Baber, Stick No Bills reinvests a portion of its profits into local conservation and community projects, ensuring that its impact goes beyond aesthetics. Whether you're after a striking Ceylon tea plantation print or a classic surf poster, each piece tells a story of Sri Lanka's vibrant past and present.

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Hay notes that she first visited Sri Lanka in 2019, drawn in by a handful of design-led but affordable hotels she had seen on Instagram, including The Kip in Ahangama. It has a peaceful design aesthetic with wafting white curtains, natural materials, and muted colors and a courtyard filled with laptop travelers who are working remote over oat milk lattes. The shop is also worth exploring, as it stocks ethically crafted Sri Lankan products, such as linens, candles, and sarongs with the hotel's signature aesthetic. I purchased the perfect pair of brown high-waisted shorts and coffee-and-tobacco soap that has the most intoxicating smell.

Credit: Le Ketiya Boutique

Hay also recommends Le Ketiya Boutique for hand-printed sarongs and dresses, and this is the second shop that I made purchases from on my trip. This slow-fashion concept store perfectly encapsulates the surfer, island aesthetic, and it stocks printed swimwear, relaxed cover-ups, and natural beauty products. I bought a soothing, healing balm that I still use as much at home as I did on my trip to treat surf-induced rashes.

Where to Go

The south coast is considered a great place for surfers of all abilities, as the gentle, rolling waves in Weligama and Hiriketiya make it an ideal spot for beginners. For those who want to really give it a go, you'll find surf camps dotted along the coastline. I stayed at Kima Surf Camp, which has recently opened renovated rooms and offers two yoga and two surf classes a day, and it is a friendly base to meet other travelers.

"There's a unique magic to Sri Lanka's south coast that's hard to define," says Hay. "The beaches are some of the best I've ever visitedpalm-lined horseshoe bays; long, sweeping stretches of sand perfect for walks; and hidden coves where local children take a dip after school." You can easily take rickshaws to visit a number of the isolated beaches. My favorites were Turtle Point Bathigama Dickwella, where you can hire snorkels and swim alongside gentle green turtles (just don't touch them), and Blue Beach Island, which is a tiny island accessible by a slither of sand. You can even camp overnight for a real unplugged beach experience.

Credit: Emma Spedding

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One of my favorite things I did in Sri Lanka was a safari in Udawalawe, the national park known for its elephant population. I also got to visit an elephant orphanage, which does important conservation work in the country. I stayed at Kalu's Hideaway, a tranquil oasis only 10 minutes away from the national park, but you can also visit for the day from coastal towns. Seeing herds of elephants up close at sunrise is just magical.

What to Pack

There is a laid-back surfer vibe, so apart from the odd dressier night, you will spend most of your time in low-key beachwear. Think shorts, loose linen pieces, and layers of SPF. This is a vacation where you will live in your bikini. If you get into surfing while you're out there, there are plenty of boutiques that can help you unlock your Blue Crush vision board, with zinc sunscreen, rash vests, and printed T-shirts. For safari excursions, you'll want to focus on layers. You will get out into the national park early in the morning before sunrise, so bring a button-down shirt and light jumper that you can easily remove. Oh, don't forget the binoculars if you are lucky enough to spot a leopard.

Linen Shirt



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Miami police are asking the community for help in finding the suspect, or suspects, behind a drive-by shooting Tuesday night that left one man dead and another in critical condition.

Around 6:45 p.m., Miami Police Spokesperson Michael Vega said Juan Gabriel Chaneton, 42, and another unidentified man were on a sidewalk in the area of Southwest 10th Avenue and Fourth Street when a car pulled alongside them and opened fire before speeding away.

Chaneton died at the scene, while the other man was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

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Police did not have an ID on a possible suspect or the vehicle they were driving. Detectives believe the shooting was targeted and there is no threat to the community.

We need anyone that was in this area between 6:40 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., and saw a vehicle leaving this area or saw what happened in the shooting, to please contact the City of Miami Police Department, Vega said. Please give us that information as it is crucial in solving this case....

Officers did bring one witness back to the police station to discuss what they saw. Police are also canvassing the area and looking at video footage from nearby homes and businesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 or the Miami Police Department at 305-579-6111.
Where you live can play a bigger role in your stress levels than you might think. A recent study by WalletHub ranked 182 U.S. cities based on 39 indicators of stress, from unemployment and foreclosure rates to divorce rates, violent crime and average weekly work hours.

The study compared work stress, financial stress, family stress, and health and safety stress to produce an overall score for each city. The highest-ranking most stressed cities share many of the same characteristics: economic hardship, high crime and strained family structures.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the least stressed cities tend to have stronger economies, lower crime rates and better access to community resources.

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So which cities are feeling the most pressure and which ones are getting a better nights sleep? The top and bottom five in WalletHubs 2025 rankings offer a revealing snapshot of how environment shapes stress.

Don't miss

The most stressful cities to live in the U.S.

WalletHubs top five most stressed cities show that financial strain often goes hand-in-hand with safety concerns and family challenges. Here are the top 5 cities where stress levels are highest, and why.

5. Memphis, TN

Memphis ranks first in the nation for health and safety stress, fueled by one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S. The city also lands in the top 10 for both financial stress (8th) and family stress (9th), indicating that residents are often contending with economic strain and unstable home environments simultaneously.

4. Gulfport, MS

This Mississippi Gulf Coast city has the highest family stress score in the nation, thanks to a high divorce rate and large share of single-parent households. Gulfport also ranks ninth for financial stress, with housing costs and limited job opportunities weighing on residents, and 13th for health and safety stress.

3. Baltimore, MD

In Baltimore, nearly 40% of the median household income goes toward rent for a two-bedroom apartment, the third-highest rent burden in the country. The city has the seventh-highest rate of underwater mortgages and one of the highest violent crime rates in the nation. It also experienced the sixth-most mass shootings between March 2020 and March 2025, compounding community safety concerns.

2. Cleveland, OH

Cleveland struggles with deep economic challenges, including the second-highest foreclosure rate and a median household income under $43,000 when adjusted for cost of living  one of the lowest in the country. The city also has the highest divorce rate in the U.S. at over 41% and ranks second in health and safety stress, with high rates of poor health, inadequate sleep, and violent crime.

1. Detroit, MI

Detroit tops the list as Americas most stressed city. It has the nations highest unemployment rate at 11.4% and the highest poverty rate at 31.5%. Residents have the lowest median household income adjusted for cost of living (just over $38,000) and a median credit score of 624  considered bad by most lenders. Detroit also ranks second for family stress and fourth for health and safety stress, driven by a high violent crime rate.

The least stressful cities to live in the U.S.

The cities at the bottom of WalletHubs list illustrate what lower-stress environments often have in common: stable economies, safer streets and healthier lifestyles. These cities ranked lowest for overall stress.

5. Burlington, VT

Known for its small-town feel and community engagement, Burlington benefits from low crime rates, easy access to outdoor activities, and relatively short commutes. Strong social ties contribute to its low stress ranking.

4. Irvine, CA

Irvine boasts the second-lowest divorce rate in the nation, a robust local economy, and some of the highest safety scores. High median incomes and a focus on urban planning contribute to a strong quality of life.

3. Sioux Falls, SD

Sioux Falls pairs a healthy job market with affordable housing and low crime rates. The citys emphasis on community well-being and recreational opportunities helps residents maintain balance.

2. Fremont, CA

Fremont has the lowest divorce rate in the U.S., high household incomes, and one of the lowest violent crime rates. Its proximity to Silicon Valley brings economic opportunity, though it also comes with higher housing costs.

1. South Burlington, VT

South Burlington leads the nation in low stress, with residents enjoying the highest average sleep hours and strong work-life balance. The citys low crime rate and emphasis on green space further support a relaxed pace of life.

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.

How to manage urban and financial stress

Living in a high-stress city can take a toll on both physical and mental health, but there are ways to reduce the pressure.

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According to NeuroLaunch, which provides information on human brain function and behavior, urban stress has become an increasingly prevalent issue. It can manifest as increased irritability, mood swings, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, physical tension and headaches, along with increased susceptibility to illness. These symptoms often stem from factors embedded in city life, including overcrowding, long commutes, limited access to nature and social isolation.

Financial pressure is one of the most persistent contributors to stress. This nonstop pressure to make ends meet and to manage the problems caused by not having enough money often fuels anxiety, depression, and despair over time, writes Llewellyn E. van Zyl, Ph.D, in an article for Psychology Today. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy notes that financial distress can also strain relationships, leading to job loss, housing instability and loss of savings.

Experts recommend a few strategies to help ease these burdens:

Get a clear picture of your finances: Track your expenses, make a budget, and work to pay down high-interest debt.

Build a financial safety net: Aim to save three to six months worth of living expenses in an emergency fund.

Seek help if needed: Look for free or low-cost credit counseling services in your area.

Create balance: Incorporate regular exercise, time in nature, and hobbies into your schedule.

Strengthen your support network: Building connections with neighbors, friends, and community groups can buffer against isolation.

Consider relocation: If your citys environment is a major source of stress  whether due to crime, cost of living, or work culture  a move could be a long-term solution.

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WalletHubs rankings show that stress isnt just personal, but tied to the communities we live in. High unemployment, unaffordable housing, crime and fractured family support systems can make daily life harder in some cities, while others foster a healthier, more balanced environment. Whether youre in Detroit or South Burlington, taking control of your finances, cultivating supportive relationships and making intentional lifestyle choices can help you manage stress, no matter your ZIP code.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WTNH)  A one-year-old child required stitches after being bitten by the family dog Tuesday evening, according to Windsor Locks police.

1-year-old in stable condition after falling into hotel pool in Windsor Locks

At approximately 7:20 p.m., the childs mother noticed discoloration on the dogs paw. When she touched the paw to investigate, the dog, a four-year-old boxer/pitbull mix, bit the child around the head area, causing lacerations and bleeding, police said.

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The parents separated the child from the dog and called the police. The child was transported to Connecticut Childrens and is in stable condition, police said.

The dog was quarantined by the police, who are still investigating the incident.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WTNH)  A one-year-old child is in stable condition after falling into a hotel pool Tuesday afternoon, according to Windsor Locks police.

1-year-old needs stitches after bitten by family dog in Windsor Locks

At approximately 3:16 p.m., a family was at the Ramada by Wyndham Hartford North/Bradley Airport indoor pool when they noticed the toddler apparently fell into the pool and appeared to be in distress, police said.

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Other adults in the vicinity went into the pool and retrieved the child, who was immediately transported to Connecticut Childrens. The child appeared to be stable by the time the family was en route to the hospital, according to police.

Police said the incident is still under investigation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WSPA)  Police are asking the public for help as they search for a man connected to a shooting that happened in Asheville on Sunday.

According to the Asheville Police Department, police were initially called to the scene of a fight on Future Drive around 12:33 a.m. While heading to the area, police were alerted of a gunshot victim at the scene.

By the time investigators arrived, the suspect had left and the victim was taken to Mission Hospital. Officials said the victim was shot five times.

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After reviewing surveillance video, police said charges were filed against 32-year-old Deshawn Lamar Perry for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to cause serious injury and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Deshawn Lamar Perry is wanted for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to cause serious injury and possession of a firearm by a felon. (Photo: Asheville Police Department) Deshawn Lamar Perry is wanted for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to cause serious injury and possession of a firearm by a felon. (Photo: Asheville Police Department)

Perry is 58 tall and weighs around 182 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, police said. He has a mustache and goatee, a pierced left ear and multiple tattoos, including a D on his right forearm, Steady Life on the right side of his chest, Drea on his right hand and Mariah on his left hand.

Investigators said Perry is considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, police ask that you do not approach him and that you call 911 immediately.

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Anyone with information regarding Perrys whereabouts are asked to call APD at (828) 252-1110, submit a tip anonymously via the TIP2APD app or text TIP2APD to 847411.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 woman who was shot in Bostons Hyde Park neighborhood has died, with one person in police custody facing a murder charge, Boston police said Wednesday.

At around 10:30 a.m., officers received a radio call for shots fired on Faraday Street, police said in a statement.

Officers found a man and a woman who were both shot several times, the statement read. Both were taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, where the woman was pronounced dead.

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Following an investigation, police arrested Jonathan Hernandez, 41, of Hyde Park, police said. Hernandez faces one count of murder, one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault with intent to murder.

He is expected to be arraigned in West Roxbury District Court.

The Boston Police Departments Homicide Unit is still investigating the shooting and asks that anyone with information about the shooting call them at 617-343-4470.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
NEED TO KNOW

Authorities in Scarborough, Maine, this week informed the public that a possible great white shark, "estimated to be 10-12 feet in length," was spotted near popular beaches

Drone footage obtained by a local fisherman was shared by police

While they have been present in Maine for years, great white sharks were rarely seen iuntil more recently

Police are issuing a warning after multiple sightings of what appears to be a great white shark near popular beaches in Scarborough, Maine  leaving locals and vacationers on alert.

On Tuesday, Aug. 12, the Scarborough Police Department announced that the sightings had occurred near Higgins Beach, Crescent Beach State Park, Pine Point Beach and Richmond Island the day prior.

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Scarborough's Marine Resource Officer received a report of what appeared to be a large shark near Richmond Island and Scarborough Beach, states the release, shared for "public situational awareness."

Th previous morning, drone footage captured by David Lancaster from his watercraft showed the shark in the area off Pine Point Beach," according to video shared by police on Facebook.



It was pretty crazy to see in the local waters. There are some really amazing creatures in the sea, Lancaster said, according to the Associated Press. Its in the back of your head, but you have to accept it.

The shark is estimated to be 10-12 feet in length," and was seen in the waters "off the southern end of Richmond Island in the vicinity of Higgins Beach and Scarborough Beach, police said.



Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via Getty Crescent State Beach Park Crescent State Beach Park

Scarborough is located about seven miles from Portland, Maine, and about 100 miles from Boston.

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We are sharing this information to keep the community informed. As additional information becomes available, we will provide updates, officers said.

Great white sharks, also known as white sharks, can weigh up to 4,000 lbs. and can live up to 70 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

These sharks are commonly found in temperate and subtropical climates and are one of the most widely protected sharks globally.

It is not uncommon for great white sharks to be found off the coast of New England states like Massachusetts, where the 1974 thriller Jaws was filmed, as well as Maine.

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Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.



In 2020, a New York City woman died after she was attacked by a great white shark off the shore of Bailey Island, according to ABC News.

According to AP, scientists have speculated that the presence of more seals in the waters has led to the sharks being seen more often.

Read the original article on People
Cells at the South Dakota State Penitentiary. (Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Corrections)

A state board has approved the parole transfer of 10 inmates who are in the country without legal permission, according to South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden.

The governor said Wednesday that the inmates will be transferred to federal custody for deportation proceedings.

South Dakota taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for illegal alien criminals, Rhoden said in a news release.

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The inmates were chosen by the Department of Corrections based on their immigration status, low-risk classification and closeness to the end of their sentence, the news release said. Each case was reviewed by the South Dakota Board of Pardons and Paroles.

The inmates came from Mexico, Sudan, Liberia, Canada, Somalia, Cuba and Ethiopia. Their crimes included burglary, possession of controlled substances, theft, assault and rape, among others.

The action comes on the heels of the Department of Corrections pursuing an agreement to assist the federal government with immigration enforcement, as part of an initiative Rhoden has dubbed Operation Prairie Thunder. The Highway Patrol and Division of Criminal Investigation have similar agreements.

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Ten South Dakota Department of Correction inmates will be deported as part of Operation Prairie Thunder and after approval by the South Dakota Board of Pardons and Paroles Wednesday.

Sioux Falls SNAP card skimming hits 350 recipients

According to a news release from Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden, the inmates will be transferred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody for deportation proceedings, ensuring they are not released back into South Dakota communities.

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South Dakota taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for illegal alien criminals, Rhoden said in the news release.

The inmates that were paroled for deportation include:

Jose Sanchez #78283, Mexico, multiple counts of Possession Controlled Substance (Schedule I & II); Yahia Hassan #77076, Sudan, multiple counts of Possession Controlled Substance (Schedule I & II), 3rd Degree Burglary, and Receiving/Transferring Stolen Vehicle; Patrick Morris #78412, Liberia, Grand Theft < $2,500 and 1st Degree Burglary; Dustin Buffalo #73336, Canada, Reckless Burning and Aggravated Assault; Mohammed Kromah #69826, Liberia, Aggravated Assault; Victor Pacheco #72401, Mexico, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Weapon in Jail; Deng Ayom #69779, Sudan, Discharge of Firearm at Occupied Structure; Mustafe Hamud #57019, Somalia, Distribution of Controlled Substance (Schedule I & II); Miguel Caveda Perez #77916, Cuba, 4th Degree Rape; and Bereket Mekonnen #77412, Ethiopia, 2nd Degree Burglary, Possession Controlled Substance (Schedule I & II), and Receiving/Transferring Stolen Vehicle.

This cooperation between DOC and ICE is uncharted and takes a bit of extra coordination, so I appreciate the Parole Boards swift action to get illegal alien criminals out of our custody and out of our country. I trust President Trump, Secretary Noem, and the hard-working law enforcement agents of Border Patrol and ICE to keep these individuals from returning to our communities, Rhoden said in a news release.

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DOC identified the inmates based on immigration status, low-risk classification and proximity to sentence completion.

Rhoden said this move is part of Operation: Prairie Thunder which is focused on targeted anti-crime in the Sioux Falls metro and an effort to support the work of ICE in South Dakota.

Last week, 24 people spoke against the state-organized Operation Prairie Thunder imitative during a Sioux Falls City Council meeting.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
In the summer of 1925, a high school biology teacher in Tennessee named John T. Scopes was arrested for teaching Charles Darwins theory of evolution to his students. At the time, Tennessee law required the teaching of divine creation and prohibited Darwins scientific explanations.

A newsreel announcer intoned, The issue was no longer the innocence or guilt of Scopes, but rather the final death struggle between two basic human philosophies. Fundamentalism versus modernism.

A circus-like atmosphere surrounded the trial. Demonstrators held stuffed monkeys during public demonstrations at the courthouse in Dayton, Tennessee.

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The trail attracted two of the most prominent men of the day: Three-time presidential nominee William Jennings Bryan, argued for the prosecution. Defending Scopes was one of the nations most well-known defense attorneysChicagos Clarence Darrow.

But perhaps it was the appearance in Dayton, Tennessee, of Chicagos WGN Radio and famous announcer Quin Ryan that truly made this a national event.

WGN had an impact on America, said David Plier, the president and CEO of the Museum of Broadcast Communications.

In the 1920s, WGN Radios 50,000-watt power allowed their signal to reach almost thirty states.

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This became a story in and of itself, said Plier, who also hosts a show on WGN Radio. The star of the show was that a radio station from Chicago was even interested at all in this case, to transmit it back to the city.

It was the first live broadcast of a trial in American history. It cost WGN more than $1,000 a day just for telephone lines.

They rented a cablea continuous cable from AT&T that went from WGN Radio studios at the time, all the way out to Dayton, Tennessee, Plier said.

WGN engineers negotiated with Judge John T. Raulston to rearrange the courtroom.

The judge was also interested and fascinated by the fact that WGN wanted to do this, so he allowed the radio station to reconfigure the entire courtroom, so they could set their four microphones up to get the best sound and transmit back to the Chicago area, Plier said.

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WGNs Ryan, in previous interviews, said he sat on a windowsill during the trial. He would only occasionally speak into the microphones to identify speakers. Sometimes, he would move to another room to provide commentary.

The radio audience was riveted.

In the end, the jury found Scopes guilty. He was fined $100. Just two years later, the decision was reversed on appeal.

The trial was fictionalized in the 1960 Spencer Tracy film Inherit the Wind. The prop microphone in the film was one of the actual microphones used in the trial 35 years earlier.

Today, only two microphones still exist. One is in the possession of WGN Radio in Chicago, while the other is held by the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

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Technology at the time didnt allow WGN to record the trial, but the impact of the first live trial broadcast across the country still echoes a century later.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
One of the most significant pieces of legislation of President Donald Trumps second administration is the passing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a massive budget reconciliation bill basically designed as a continuation to prolong many of the major facets of Trumps Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from 2017, from his first term.

Learn More: 5 Ways Trumps Big, Beautiful Bill Could Impact Your Wallet

Find Out: Warren Buffett: 10 Things Poor People Waste Money On

There are many ways in which the OBBBA will impact ordinary Americans through its Medicaid cuts  a fact that originally stalled the bill in the Senate after passing in the House. Now that its passed, a dozen states are poised to suffer the most from the Medicaid cuts.

Quick Take: OBBBA vs. Medicaid

There are many provisions of the OBBBA designed to implement stricter Medicaid eligibility requirements. Here are a few key takeaways:

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OBBBA slashes $1 trillion in Medicaid funding over a decade, impacting states ability to maintain current coverage levels.

There will be new verification requirements to receive Medicaid, which will be limiting to many current users.

It is now mandating more frequent redeterminations, which increases the number of eligibility checks, making it harder for some to maintain coverage, particularly those experiencing short-term job loss.

There is a prohibition of Medicaid for gender-affirming care.

It allows for narrower eligibility criteria for non-citizens, excluding certain categories like refugees and asylees.

Medicaid will not fund any nonprofits that assist in abortion procedures or care

Medicaid recipients who live above the poverty line are now forced to pay more for their coverage.

Consider This: 4 Ways Trumps Big Beautiful Bill Will Change How You Plan for Retirement

States Being Hit the Hardest by Medicaid Cuts

Currently, 12 states in America are likely most vulnerable to Medicaid cuts as featured in the OBBBA. Those states have what are known as trigger laws  policies in place in which Medicaid expansion would either be scaled back, end entirely if federal funding for Medicaid is cut or cause reviews that could result in cut benefits or the elimination of expansions, per HealthInsurance.org. Those states are:

Arizona

Arkansas

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Montana

New Hampshire

New Mexico

North Carolina

Utah

Virginia

Final Take To GO

The bottom line is that OBBBA is aiming to truly gut Medicaid and its coverage for millions of Americans. It significantly impacts Medicaid through cuts to funding, stricter eligibility requirements and increased cost-sharing for recipients. These changes are projected to reduce Medicaid spending by $1 trillion over ten years, and this healthcare bill passing raises the question as to what and who the Trump administration is really saving.

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T. Woods contributed to the reporting for this article.

Editors note on political coverage: GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively and present balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. You can find more coverage of this topic on GOBankingRates.com.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 12 States That Will Be Hit the Hardest by Medicaid Cuts
BOSTON (WPRI)  Thirteen individuals have been charged in connection with an elaborate grandparent scheme that tricked hundreds of elderly victims out of millions of dollars, according to authorities.

The transnational elder fraud scheme involved a call center operation that tricked more than 400 victims  with an average age of 84  into believing their grandchildren or close relatives were in trouble and needed money.

United States District Attorney Leah Foley revealed Tuesday that at least 50 of those victims live in Massachusetts.

A call center setup in the Dominican Republic. (Courtesy: District of Massachusetts)

These scams are not just financially devastating, they are emotionally traumatizing, Foley said. Many victims lost not only their savings, but their sense of safety, judgement and trust in the world around them.

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Charging documents reveal the scheme was orchestrated by 33-year-old Oscar Manuel Castanos Garcia, who oversaw call centers in the Dominican Republic and employed others who spoke English to carry out the scam.

The call center operators used commercial telemarketing software to organize lists

of elderly victims and track callers activity, the charging documents noted. They purchased lists of information about elderly victims from other individuals in the Dominican Republic who obtained such lists from the dark web.

Foley explained that the scams would typically begin with an opener employee, who would call the victims and pretend to be a grandson or granddaughter in a predicament.

An example script provided to call center employees. (Courtesy: District of Massachusetts)

Callers would tell the elderly victim, Ive been in an accident or I need money to post bail,' Foley said.

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Foley said a closer employee would then follow up with another call pretending to be their grandchilds attorney. The closer employee would demand the victim give them money on their grandchilds behalf to resolve legal fees and cover other expenses.

In total, Foley said the scheme resulted in more than $5 million in losses.

Castanos Garcia reportedly ran the call centers with the assistance of several managers who supervised, instructed and paid the employees.

Call center managers would often provide employees with scripts to use when calling victims, according to the charging documents.

RELATED: Man accused of defrauding Dartmouth woman nabbed in reverse sting operation

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Foley said closer employees would instruct elderly victims to provide cash to runners in the United States. Most often, Foley said the closer employee would instruct the victims to give packages with cash to rideshare drivers, who would unknowingly be directed to pick it up from the seniors home on the call centers behalf.

Call center employees would keep track of the funds they stole from victims. (Courtesy: District of Massachusetts)

The rideshare driver would then deliver that package to the runners at nearby locations. In a number of instances, Foley said closer employees would tell the victims to ship packages of cash to specified addresses via mail or commercial carriers.

Rideshare drivers were also ordered to drive elderly victims to the bank to withdraw additional funds, according to Foley.

Charging documents indicate that the money would then be deposited into bank accounts and then sent to the Dominican Republic via wire transfer.

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To make matters worse, Foley said the scheme didnt always stop there. She said the suspects would call the victims again and again to demand more money.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks said Castanos Garcia funded his lavish lifestyle using the proceeds from the scam.

Docks added that Castanos Garcia had no shame in swindling his victims, and even called his new prospective targets fresh meat.

Oscar Manuel Castanos Garcia used the scam proceeds to fund his lavish lifestyle. (Courtesy: District of Massachusetts)

Let me be clear, the harm done here was significant  retirements delayed, inheritances lost, lives turned upside down, Docks said. What the accused did in targeting our seniors was calculated, cold-hearted and cruel.

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No grandparent should ever have to wonder if the next call they get is it a cry for help or a trap, he continued.

Most of the suspects have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Nine of the 13 suspects are in custody at this time, including Castanos Garcia. Foley said two suspects remain at large in the United States, while two are at large in the Dominican Republic.

Those at large include Ransel Starlin Tavarez Jimenez and Joel Francisco Mathilda Leon, both of New York, Jose Osvaldo Polanco Batista, of Florida, and Jose Arony Fermin Vasquez, of New Jersey.

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Investigators believe there are more victims who havent come forward yet. Anyone who may have fallen victim to this scam, or knows someone who was targeted, should email USAMA.victimassistance@usdoj.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). Suspected fraud can also be reported online through the FBIs Internet Crime Complaint Center.

SEE ALSO: Detectives stop woman from losing $20K in Bitcoin scam

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  A 13-year-old boy was arrested Wednesday morning in Springfield for allegedly stealing a car out of Wilbraham.

Springfield Police Spokesperson Ryan Walsh stated that just before 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, officers were called to the 0-100 block of Lionel Benoit Road regarding reports of suspicious activity. Police arriving in the area saw four individuals trying to remove a tire from a Hyundai.

Springfield man charged after ghost gun found inside car

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When the suspects saw the officers, they ran into a nearby wooded area. Police located and detained a 13-year-old boy from Enfield, and he was found to be in possession of a screwdriver, lug nuts, and a USB cord, which police say are commonly used to steal Hyundais and Kias.

The juvenile was arrested in connection with the incident. His name, booking photo, and specific charges will not be released due to his age.

The Springfield Police Department is warning residents of an increase in break-ins and thefts of Hyundais and Kias in the area, and reminding them to obtain a highly visible steering wheel locking device to prevent future illegal activities.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Fourteen young cats on their way to Massachusetts from Maryland are now at the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA) after their transport van got into a crash in East Providence Tuesday.

RISPCAs Stephanie Van Patten told 12 News the cats were being brought to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) Cape Cod Adoption Center at the time of the crash, which happened on Warren Avenue.

Van Patten said good Samaritans from a nearby business assisted the driver with wrangling a few of the cats that escaped the transport van.

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The cats were not injured and were brought to the RISPCA in Warwick. Van Patten said the cats will stay overnight until the MSPCA can pick them up sometime Wednesday.

(Courtesy: RISPCA) (Courtesy: RISPCA) (Courtesy: RISPCA) (Courtesy: RISPCA)

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NEED TO KNOW

A 14-year-old boy is recovering after he was hit by a car while riding his e-bike on his first day of school, according to Florida authorities

A group of witnesses who saw the crash helped lift the car off of the boy, who was then airlifted to a local children's hospital

The teen was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash

Authorities in Florida say a 14-year-old boy is recovering after he was hit by a car on his first day of school.

The incident occurred at Howland Boulevard and Roble Lane in Deltona around 9 a.m. local time on Monday, Aug. 11, according to a news release from the Volusia Sheriffs Office (VSO).

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The teen was riding the e-bike eastbound on Howland Boulevard when he attempted to cross Roble Lane in the crosswalk. Simultaneously, the Kia entered the crosswalk at a low speed while attempting to turn onto Howland Boulevard and hit the teen.

The vehicle then dragged the student about 15 feet before coming to a stop with the teen trapped underneath.

Multiple witnesses stopped to help, including a passing tow truck driver, according to police. Fortunately, the group was able to lift the vehicle off the teen and move him to safety.

The teen, who was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, remained conscious and was airlifted to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, the sheriffs office said.

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He was last listed in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery, they continued, adding, We are thankful for his recovery.

The Deltona Traffic Unit is investigating the crash, according to police, who went on to share an important safety message to drivers and e-bike riders.

We want to emphasize safe operation and awareness of e-bikes as they've become increasingly popular on our roads and sidewalks, and their increased speeds can reduce reaction time to avoid crashes, the sheriffs office said.

The VSO encouraged riders to always wear a helmet  and for parents to talk with your kids about the rules of the road and safe riding habits, such as avoiding the use of phones or earbuds and keeping both hands on the handlebars.

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.

Education is key, the sheriffs office said. Since many e-bike riders are under 18, encourage supervised riding and seek formal training if possible.

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Meanwhile, police encouraged drivers to avoid driving distracted and use special caution in school zones, residential areas and around intersections.

Understand e-bikes can travel faster than traditional bicycles, the sheriffs office added. Thats why its crucial to be extra vigilant.



Read the original article on People
Aug. 12The Austin ArtWorks Festival  a two-day celebration of the visual, performing, and literary arts  marks its 14th anniversary year with featured artist Suyao Tian.

Thousands of visitors are expected in downtown Austin on Aug. 23-24 for the event.

Tian is a professional artist based in the Twin Cities. She currently serves as adjunct faculty at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, teaching Water-Based Media studio classes. She is the founder and owner of Viewpoint Gallery, an Executive Board member of Art Buddies, and a board member of the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA).

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She earned her BA from the University of Central Arkansas and her MFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. In her professional artistic career, she works as an independent curator and water-based media abstract painter. She is represented by Claire Oliver Gallery in NYC. Her paintings have been featured in numerous group and solo exhibitions both nationally and internationally. Her paintings have been permanently collected by museums, institutions, and renowned collectors, such as the North Dakota Museum of Art, the University of Minnesota, and more.

In the commercial art arena, she has worked with prestigious companies such as Target, Room & Board, MSP International Airport, and BOND International Design Agency, among others.

Festival goers will have the opportunity to meet Suyao Tian in person during the festival, where she will demonstrate her painting techniques live on both days. A selection of her work will also be on display in the second-floor gallery of the Austin ArtWorks Center.

The 2025 Austin ArtWorks Festival will feature 83 exhibiting and emerging artists from eight states, an authors and theatrical arts stage, live music, free family art activities, and a variety of art-making demonstrations.

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Founded by volunteers in 2012, the festival is currently co-chaired by Jeff Baldus and Lisa Dunlop.

The Emerging Artists program is supported by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. The festival is made possible through the support of grants, donors, and generous sponsors.

Learn more about the festival at AustinAreaArts.org
Aug. 12An 18-year-old man is facing multiple charges after a police chase involving a stolen vehicle led to a crash and shelter in place advisory in Washington Twp. on Monday.

Trevor Walker was charged with three counts of receiving stolen property and one count each of inducing panic, failure to comply with a police order, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, theft and obstructing official business in Warren County Court.

His bond was set at $150,000. He's scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday.

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Around 8:47 a.m. Monday a Springboro police office reportedly found a stolen Toyota Sienna on Ohio 741 near Pennyroyal Road.

The officer learned the car was reported stolen, as well as connected to a missing person and home invasion, according to Springboro police.

The vehicle belonged to Walker's grandmother in Franklin County, Kentucky, according to court records.

"The defendant fled from Officer Strader at a high rate of speed, ran red lights and crashed into a vehicle, which ended the pursuit," a criminal complaint read.

The crash was at the intersection of Ohio 725 and Paragon Road in Washington Twp.

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Walker got out of the car and reportedly fled toward Oak Creek South Park. Court records state he tried to steal a motorcycle but then fled on foot.

A female was also in the car. She was taken into custody and treated for injuries, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies learned Walker was possibly involved in a home invasion where guns were stolen and firearms were found at the crash scene, Montgomery County Sheriff Chief of Staff Jeremy Roy said.

As a result, the sheriff's office issued a shelter in place advisory for the Paragon Road and Ohio 725 area.

Additional law enforcement officers from Franklin, Miamisburg and Centerville police departments, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, SWAT, FBI and U.S. Marshals also responded to help locate Walker.

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Police canines and tracks and broken branches in the area helped lead crews to a drainage area near 8110 Paragon Road.

Walker was found in a storm drain and was arrested without further incident, Roy said.

A loaded revolver and a long rifle were found in the Toyota, according to court documents.
UPDATE: According to the Texarkana Police Department, all three teenagers are now in custody for organized criminal activity after a 13-day search for Kaden Brown, who turned himself in on Wednesday afternoon.

18-year-old Jakelyn Brown of Wake Village was the first to be arrested on July 31 for engaging in organized criminal activity/exhibiting a deadly weapon.

17-year-old Amante White of Wake Village was arrested on Tuesday for engaging in organized criminal activity. Around 4:15 p.m. on Wednesday, 18-year-old Kaden Brown of Prescott, AR., was arrested for the same charge after he turned himself in.

Mugshot of Jakelyn Brown, courtesy of Bowie County Jail

Mugshot of Amante White, courtesy of Bowie County Jail

Mugshot of Kaden Brown, courtesy of Bowie County Jail

All three men are currently being held at the Bowie County Jail.

TEXARKANA, Texas (KETK)  The Texarkana Police Department is searching for an 18-year-old who is wanted for engaging in organized criminal activity and assault with a deadly weapon.

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SUV crashes into Piada restaurant at The Village at Cumberland Park in Tyler

Photo of Kaden Brown, courtesy of Texarkana Police Department.

According to Texarkana PD, on July 31 Kaden Brown and two other men approached another man who was sitting in his car at Creekside Apartments. Police said there was already trouble between them when a fight broke out, and the man in the car was shot once.

The two other men, 18-year-old Jakylen Brown and 17-year-old Amante White, were arrested, but Kaden is still on the run.

The Texarkana Police Department is asking anyone with information about Kaden to call 903-798-3116.

Driver arrested after child grazed by vehicle near Longview elementary school

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Callers can stay anonymous through the Texarkana Crime Stoppers at 903-792-STOP and could receive a cash reward.

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.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Two people were arrested in connection with an arson case that happened in May in Williamson County, according to a news release from the county.

The county said the Williamson County Fire Marshals Office began investigating a significant residential structure fire in the unincorporated area of Williamson County on May 8.

The Williamson County Fire Marshals Office collaborated with fire marshals and investigators from Hutto, Liberty Hill and the State Fire Marshals Office to address the incident, which was determined to be an arson case.

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According to officials, the first suspect sustained burns during the act, confessed to starting the fire, which then led to getting an arrest warrant for his arrest. He remained in the Williamson County jail, as of Wednesday. Additionally, the second suspect was arrested in Barlett and taken to the Williamson County jail. He also remained in the jail, as of Wednesday.

Fostering partnerships with our local, state and federal agencies is another critical part of what we do, said Williamson County Fire Marshal Chief Lugo in the release. This enhances our ability to effectively respond to and manage fire-related and hazardous materials incidents. Together, we can leverage more resources to apply to the given situation.

The case remained under investigation Wednesday.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
2 men dead, 3 police officers on leave after shootout in Moorhead originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

Authorities have confirmed that two men were fatally shot during an "exchange of gunfire" with police in Moorhead on Monday evening.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is investigating the incident, which Moorhead PD says saw a SWAT team involved in an apparent shootout during a response to a domestic assault call at an apartment complex on the 2400 block of Third Avenue North.

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The domestic assault call was received just after 8:45 p.m. Monday, and involved a female victim and two people known to her inside the apartment complex.

In a Tuesday update, Moorhead police said that when the victim met with officers, she "provided enough information to establish probable cause to arrest the suspect" and indicated that two children were still in the apartment.

The surrounding apartments were evacuated and the Red River Valley SWAT Team and Fargo Police Department were called to the scene.

The SWAT team was then involved in an "exchange of gunfire," during which two men in the apartment were shot.

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Medics attempted life-saving measures on the men, and officers removed the children  who were not injured  from the apartment. One man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other later died at a local hospital. Their identities haven't yet been released.

It has not been confirmed at this time whether the men were shot by police; whether one or both of the men were firing at police; if the second man in the apartment was a suspect in the domestic assault call; or if any weapons were recovered from the scene.

Police have said however that there are "no other individuals known to have been involved with this incident."

"No officers or other civilians were injured or required any medical attention from the exchange of gunfire," Moorhead Police Chief Chris Helmick said during a press conference late Tuesday afternoon.

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Three Fargo officers who fired their guns during the SWAT effort have been placed on administrative leave, per the department's policy, according to Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski.

The BCA is processing the crime scene and reviewing evidence, including footage from police body cameras, which captured portions of the incident.

Additional updates will be shared by the BCA moving forward.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcements latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

Watch the press conference from Tuesday:

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
LEADVILLE, Colo. (KREX)  Two minors were arrested after they reportedly shot a juvenile male in the arm during a confrontation.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation reported that the incident occurred around noon on Monday in Leadville. CBI stated the victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and has been released from the hospital.

Lake County Sheriffs deputies located the suspects not long after the incident and arrested them without incident. Both are from the Leadville/Lake County area and have been charged with first-degree attempted murder.

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CBI was requested to take the lead on the investigation, with the Lake County Sheriffs Office assisting.

CBI stated that since the incident involved juveniles and the investigation is active, there will be additional information released at this time.

CBI and the sheriffs office ask that anyone with information regarding the incident call the Lake County Emergency Communication Center at 719-486-1249.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Two men have been convicted of murder in the shooting death of a toddler at a Fort Valley apartment complex.

Jabari Thomas and Wontazious Bivins were found guilty of multiple charges related to the death of 23-month-old Marcus Ball Jr. and the injury of his sister. The convictions follow a weeklong trial and follows the conviction and sentencing of a co-defendant.

A Peach County jury found Thomas and Bivins guilty of malice murder, felony murder, two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of possession of firearm during commission of a felony.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The shooting occurred on July 20, 2022, when Thomas and Bivins, along with other people, fired numerous shots toward Building D in the Lakeview Apartments during a dispute with another person who lived in the building.

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One of the bullets entered the childrens bedroom, ripping through 12-month-old Markailey Balls right arm and into the head of Marcus. They were in the arms of their teenage sister.

Thomas and Bivins will be sentenced at a later date and face the possibility of life imprisonment without parole.

The reckless disregard for human life demonstrated in this case will not be tolerated in our communities. When innocent children become victims of senseless gun violence, we will not rest until justice is served. Todays conviction demonstrates our unwavering commitment to holding violent offenders accountable, said District Attorney Anita Howard.

Howard commended the courage of witnesses who came forward despite obstacles such as fear and distance.

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The case faced several challenges, including reluctant witnesses and officers who had to travel from across the state to testify.

Christopher Miller, a co-defendant, was previously convicted of the same charges in May and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole

Howard emphasized the commitment to holding violent offenders accountable and ensuring justice for the victims.

The prosecution team included Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Taylor Wilson, Assistant Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Alveta Watkins, and law clerk Micah Burdette.

TRENDING STORIES:

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Two more Republicans joined the growing list of candidates vying to become lieutenant governor in next years election.

Georgia state Sen. Blake Tillery, a Republican, launched his campaign Monday and state Rep. David Clark of Buford in the greater Atlanta metro area announced his candidacy Tuesday.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Tillery, a real estate attorney, was first elected in 2016 and became the Senate Appropriations Committee chair in 2020. This year, he championed bills that would allow lawsuits against anyone who implements sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities and cut public funding for gender-affirming care for transgender adults.

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Tillery opened his campaign Monday with a statewide tour across seven cities that will end in his hometown of Vidalia.

Joined by his wife and two sons at Georgias Capitol in Atlanta, Tillery said of his family, theyre the reason why Im running.

I believe that we should continue to focus on items that matter to Georgians, and I want my kids to be raised in a Georgia just like I was, one that believes in faith in God and puts Georgia values first, Tillery said, adding hes the candidate with a record for results.

Tillery touted his work advancing conservative causes on social issues, immigration and taxes. He vowed to eliminate Georgias state income tax and supports continuing the crackdown on illegal immigration and crime.

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Before joining the Senate, Tillery was chair of the Toombs County Commission.

Clark, a military veteran, promised in a video to be a warrior who will defend Georgias families, values and freedom. He said he stood for anti-abortion policies, gun rights and religious liberty as a legislator. He also promised to eliminate the state income tax, among other conservative priorities.

Clark was removed from the House chamber in 2021 by the former Republican House speaker for violating the chambers COVID-19 testing policy.

Ive stood up to members of the radical left and to members of our own party who wouldnt fight for whats right, Clark said.

ELECTION 2026 STORIES:

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Tillery and Clark will face Republican Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch, who called himself a die-hard MAGA supporter, and John Kennedy, the top-ranking Republican in Georgias state Senate and Macon lawyer who helped Gov. Brian Kemp and Georgias business community pass limits on lawsuits and civil verdicts.

Democrat state Sen. Josh McLaurin, a vocal critic of Republican policies in the state legislature, is also running, and State Sen. Greg Dolezal, a Republican from Cumming, is considering a run.

Georgias lieutenant governor presides over Senate sessions, but senators decide how much power the official has. When senators agree, lieutenant governors can be influential.

Burt Jones, the current Republican lieutenant governor, is running for governor next year with President Donald Trumps endorsement.

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Two people are in critical condition after a shooting in Hyde Park on Wednesday morning, according to Boston Police.

Boston police officers went to 118 Faraday St. around 10 a.m. Wednesday for a report of a person shot. There, police found two people with multiple gunshot wounds, said Officer Mark Marron, a spokesman for the department.

Both people were taken to hospitals with life-threatening injuries after being treated at the scene, Marron said.

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Due to the severity of the injuries, Boston Police homicide detectives are investigating the incident, Marron said.

More News

Read the original article on MassLive.
BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (WBOY)  Two Upshur County elementary schools would close at the end of the upcoming school year if a two-phase plan released by Superintendent Christy Miller on Tuesday night is passed.

The plan was outlined during Tuesdays Upshur County Board of Education meeting and is as follows:

Phase one of the proposal would see the closure of Rock Cave Elementary and the transfer of those students to French Creek Elementary during the 202627 school year. That phase also calls for the closure of Tennerton Elementary School and the transfer of those students to the Buckhannon Academy.

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The second phase of the proposal calls for the combination of Buckhannon-Upshur Middle School and Buckhannon-Upshur High School into a single facility.

What does school choice mean for West Virginians?

Miller said during the meeting that the total student enrollment in the county as of Tuesday evening was 3,219.

Miller said enrollment numbers at Rock Cave Elementary specifically have dropped, with only 74 students enrolled for the upcoming school year, including six in kindergarten. She added that about a third of the students at Rock Cave area have already been approved to move to French Creek, and moving the entire Rock Cave student body would be possible with no additional construction, as current enrollment sits at 212 students, with a capacity of 337.

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In a similar vein, Miller said Buckhannon Academys enrollment for the upcoming school year was 478, while Tennerton Elementarys was 293. She said Buckhannon Academy has a maximum capacity of 1,054 when all floors are used, meaning the student body could also combine in a way similar to Rock Cave/French Creek.

Miller said there would be construction costs associated with the Buckhannon Academy project, such as new roofing, as well as a new boiler and chiller. She said an SBA grant would be submitted to cover some costs, with the county covering the rest.

Regarding the middle and high schools, Miller said the total capacity at Buckhannon-Upshur High School is 1,522 students. However, because the combined enrolled student bodies at both schools exceeds this number by nearly 200, Miller said additional construction would need to take place in order to make phase two possible, which would be done using a separate SBA grant.

So why is this being proposed? During the meeting, Miller cited declining public enrollment and a decrease of more than $1 million in public funds based on the increasing prevalence of the Hope Scholarship program, which diverts money from the public school system and distributes it to parents of students enrolled in the program for things like tuition at private institutions and homeschool assistance.

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Other counties in West Virginia are no strangers to shortfalls in public funding. Neighboring Randolph County has been suffering from its own set of consolidation woes over the past year, while nearby Harrison County will begin its first school year post-consolidation this month.

The school board took no action on the proposal Tuesday night, and as the Upshur County Board of Education remains under state control, any reconfiguration of schools would require state approval. The county is seeking to secure that approval prior to the end of 2025.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com.
The Brief

John Nino, a prisoner on community supervision for second-degree robbery, escaped custody at SEA Airport on Tuesday but was tracked down and arrested in Tacoma on Wednesday.

Nino is accused of fleeing from Washington Department of Corrections officers at the airport garage, heading towards Highway 99, prompting a search by Port of Seattle Police and DOC officers.

Nino was on community supervision for second-degree robbery after being arrested in New Mexico.

SEATTLE - A prisoner who escaped custody while being transported through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport was tracked down and arrested by authorities Wednesday.

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The Washington Department of Corrections said 20-year-old John Nino ran from officers while at SEA Airport on Tuesday, escaping around Highway 99. After putting out an alert, a citizen reported seeing Nino in the passenger seat of a car in King County on Wednesday around 3:40 p.m.

ATF agents, corrections officers and sheriff's deputies followed Nino to Tacoma and arrested him around 4:20 p.m.

What we know

Law enforcement were searching for 20-year-old John Nino. He allegedly ran from two Washington Department of Corrections officers while on the fourth floor of the airport garage, and headed towards the SeaTac light rail station.

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According to SEA Airport, Nino escaped after running across the pedestrian bridge on the east side of the station towards International Boulevard. He was last spotted around 8 p.m. crossing the railroad tracks and heading towards Highway 99.

Port of Seattle Police and Department of Corrections (DOC) officers searched the area, but did not find Nino.

Nino is described as 6'2", 154 lbs, and was last seen wearing a red coat and gray sweatpants.

The backstory

Nino was on community supervision for second-degree robbery, and was transported back to Washington after being arrested in New Mexico several days ago, according to the DOC.

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This comes after another fugitive escaped custody while being transported through Sea-Tac Airport earlier this year. Sedric Stevenson was on the run for over a month after running from two bounty hunters, and also escaped towards the SeaTac light rail station.

The Source

Information in this story came from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the Washington State Department of Corrections and previous FOX 13 Seattle reporting.

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20 people displaced after massive fire scorches 5 multi-family homes in Lawrence

A massive fire in Lawrence has displaced about 20 people after raging flames damaged five multi-family homes on Tuesday night.

The five-alarm blaze on Lowell Street, which required a huge response from firefighters from several communities, spread to four surrounding properties, including a multi-family building with a restaurant downstairs.

At least two of the homes scorched by the intense blaze are considered a total loss.

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Lawrence Fire Chief Patrick Delaney reported that while no injuries have been reported among residents, multiple firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion due to the intense conditions and hot temperatures.

Firefighters used thousands of feet of hose line to combat the flames and prevent further damage in the densely packed neighborhood.

However, thick smoke that consumed the neighborhood posed a significant challenge for the firefighters.

We got a lot of trapped fire up there, and its tough, its deep-seated, rooted fire, so its developing a lot of smoke. Tonights humidity really just keeps that smoke to the ground, so a lot of our members, if you were out front, they were taking a lot of smoke there, Delaney explained.

Delaney credited firefighters with saving a lot of property.

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The Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents, who have been relocated to a nearby senior center for temporary shelter.

Crews remained at the scene on Wednesday morning, monitoring for hot spots and sifting through the rubble.

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services is assisting with an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Started in 2020 as a five-year initiative inspired by the racial justice outcry following the police murder of George Floyd, the California Black Freedom Fund plans to expand to a $200 million endowment. The move is both rare in the world of philanthropy and politically bold, given the Trump administrations efforts to eliminate race-based grant making.

Originally a designated fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the fund spun off on July 1, renaming itself the Black Freedom Fund, to indicate its new national scope. Over the past five years, it has drawn more than $97 million in donations. Of that, it has directed $45 million to 206 nonprofits in California, largely working to increase the sway of nonprofits that serve Black people, with a portion of the remainder being reserved to start the endowment.

Marc Philpart, the funds executive director, said the endowment will let the fund make grants of $10 million a year without cutting into its asset base, assuming historical rates of return on investments.

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By establishing a durable institution with a sizable reservoir of cash, the fund can serve as a lasting beacon to smaller organizations serving Black communities in California, Philpart said.

When a crisis occurs in the Black community, philanthropy parachutes in, theres a wave of support, and then as soon as the news cameras turn away, the support recedes, he said. We need enduring institutions that are led by and committed to the Black community in ways that have a lasting impact.

DEI targeted

Philparts fundraising for the endowment comes as the Trump administration has characterized diversity, equity, and inclusion programs as illegal and has called for investigations of large foundations that support diversity programs.

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Under Philparts leadership, the California Black Freedom Fund started the Legal Education, Advocacy, and Defense for Racial Justice Initiative, which provides pro bono legal consulting and training for nonprofits. The program operates on the premise that there isnt anything illegal about racial justice funding.

But the 2023 Supreme Court ruling against considering race in college admissions, in a pair of cases brought by Students for Fair Admissions against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina, was viewed by some as an indication that private philanthropies could not legally engage in race-based grant making  and the issue is far from settled.

While Philparts fundraising pitch might resonate with some donors, others are sure to be nervous, given the scrutiny placed on race-based grant making by the White House, said Dan Morenoff, executive director of the American Civil Rights Project, a litigation and advocacy nonprofit that has challenged affirmative action programs.

The White House has directed the Department of Justice to root out instances of race-based grantmaking, which it considers discriminatory.

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You dont want to be on their radar because they are fervently looking for people to make examples of at this point, Morenoff said.

While some corporations and philanthropies, including the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, an early supporter of the California Black Freedom Fund, have retreated from supporting racial justice, Philpart is counting on securing support from donors who want to stay with the cause even as the issue is argued in various court cases stemming from Trumps anti-DEI executive orders.

The attacks from the administration, Philpart said, have been a clarifying moment for many donors and have generated interest in the fund.

People have rallied to us and really doubled down on their commitments to support Black freedom and Black power, he said. That is the most telling thing coming out of this moment  that there is a critical mass of leaders throughout the country who care very deeply about the community.

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70 financial supporters

One grantmaker that has doubled down is the California Wellness Foundation. The foundation made an initial grant of $500,000 when the fund was first launched, then made a $200,000 commitment to a separate fund created by the California Black Freedom Fund in response to the January Los Angeles fires, and recently added $500,000 to support the spin-off.

Richard Tate, president of the California Wellness Fund, said the new fund is needed now more than ever because of attempts by the administration to roll back equity efforts.

The fact that we are talking about a Black Freedom Fund is an acknowledgment that not everyone has equal standing in the culture, he said. Whatever headwinds that may exist because of this political moment, now is the time for us to continue to be explicit about our intentions of supporting a community.

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Philanthropy needs to act quickly by unleashing more money in grants to support areas like litigation, public advocacy, and the replacement of lost federal funds, said Glenn Harris, president of Race Forward, a nonprofit racial justice advocacy group. But, he said, lasting institutions that can respond to future challenges are also needed.

Theres a balancing act, Harris said. Its really clear that struggles for liberation and justice are going to be with us for a minute.

Among the two dozen grant makers that chipped in to start the fund are the Akonadi, Conrad Hilton and San Francisco foundations as well as the Emerson Collective, Crankstart, the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund and the Silicon Valley Community Foundation. The total of institutional funders to the effort since 2020 now exceeds 70.

Why endowments

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Among the groups the fund has supported are the East Bay Permanent Real Estate Cooperative, a community-owned cooperative that removes land and housing from the speculative market and places it into permanent community stewardship, according to the fund.

A late 2023 survey of nearly 300 foundations conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy found that more than two thirds of grantmakers did not offer endowment grants. Half of those that did so made them to arts organizations and museums.

Nonprofits led by Black people receive endowment grants even more rarely, according to a 2022 analysis of social change organizations by the Bridgespan Group, a philanthropy consultancy, which found that nonprofits led by Black people had endowments that were only a fourth as big as those led by white people.

Since then, some grant makers have stepped forward to support endowments at organizations serving members of Black communities, said Darren Isom, a partner at Bridgespan. For instance, in 2022 the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation made grants of $5 million each to three racial justice organizations led by people of color: UnidosUS, the NAACP, and Faith in Action.

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Endowments are transfer of power from philanthropic organizations to the organizations that are closest to the work, he said. From an impact perspective, the work is more high impact, more beneficial, and more durable if its owned by and led by those that are the closest to issues and closest to the communities.

Philpart is confident that despite the blow-back against diversity and racial justice, the fund can raise enough money to meet its goal.

Were drawing people out who want to prove we are greater than divisiveness, we are greater than bigotry, and we are a greater than racism, he said. We are better than all the things that pull us apart and dont fundamentally improve anyones well-being.

______

Alex Daniels is a senior reporter at the Chronicle of Philanthropy, where you can read the full article. This article was provided to The Associated Press by the Chronicle of Philanthropy as part of a partnership to cover philanthropy and nonprofits supported by the Lilly Endowment. The Chronicle is solely responsible for the content. For all of APs philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
(NATIONAL)  The Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Joint Task Force announced that a 24/7 call center is now available to help service members, Defense Department civilians, and their families with their government moves.

When a military family reaches out for help, they shouldnt have to chase answers, said Army Maj. Gen. Lance G. Curtis, PCS JTF commander. This call center ensures someone takes responsibility and stays with them until the issue is fixed.

Service members can call (833) 645-6683, email PCSCallCenter@mail.mil, or visit the PCS JTF webpage for support, and they will have their cases triaged before being escalated to the PCS JTF call center.

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When service members undertake a government household goods move and contact the call center, trained military personnel log the issue into a centralized tracking system, after which they receive regular, personalized updates until the issues are resolved.

First, we receive a warm transfer from the system response center, where they explain the issue the service member is experiencing, said Marine Corps Sgt. Garay Reyes, a PCS JTF call center action officer. Next, we pull the incident number or ticket to review the history of the situation. From there, we begin our own process to pinpoint the issue and find a reliable solution that meets the service members needs. Throughout the entire process, our team follows up with the service member until the incident is fully resolved.

The call center is available at all times to any military family worldwide, ensuring they receive assistance with household goods moves regardless of their time zone.

Personally procured moves are still the responsibility of service members, though the task force call center can attempt to help wherever possible.

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BROWN COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Twenty-five to thirty cows are missing or dead on a property in Brown County.

The Brown County Sheriffs Office says deputies were called to a property on CR 411 in May to investigating a report of dead cows around 4:00 p.m. Monday.

While at the scene, the property owner reported 25-30 cows were dead or missing.

An investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.




NEED TO KNOW

The remains of a 25-year-old researcher who died on a glacier near the Antarctic Peninsula in July 1959 have been located and identified more than six decades later

Experts say the bones belonged to Dennis Tink Bell, a meteorologist who had been working for a predecessor of the British Antarctic Survey

Bell fell into a crevasse and died, but his remains were not discovered until January 2025





The remains of a 25-year-old researcher who died on a glacier near the Antarctic Peninsula in July 1959 have been located and identified more than six decades later.

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Experts say the bones belonged to Dennis Tink Bell, a meteorologist who had been working for a predecessor of the British Antarctic Survey when he fell into a crevasse on a King George Island glacier and died. His remains, exposed as the glacier receded, were not recovered until this year.

The discovery on the Ecology Glacier was made by workers from the Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station on King George Island on Sunday, January 19, the British Antarctic Survey announced in a statement this week.

DNA testing confirmed his identity using samples from his surviving siblings, David Bell and Valerie Kelly.



https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

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"I had long given up on finding my brother. It is just remarkable, astonishing. I can't get over it," David Bell, 86, told BBC News. He now lives in Australia.

In addition to the remains, the British Antarctic Survey says more than 200 other items have been located, including bits of radio equipment, a flashlight, ski poles, a wristwatch, a knife and a pipe.

When my sister Valerie and I were notified that our brother Dennis had been found after 66 years, we were shocked and amazed," said David Bell in the BAS statement. "The British Antarctic Survey and British Antarctic Monument Trust have been a tremendous support and together, with the sensitivity of the Polish team in bringing him home, have helped us come to terms with the tragic loss of our brilliant brother.

Dennis, who grew up in London, was stationed at Admiralty Bay for a two-year assignment when the fatal incident occurred, BAS said.

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The confirmation of the remains found on Ecology Glacier as those of Dennis Tink Bell is both a poignant and profound moment for all of us at British Antarctic Survey. Dennis was one of the many brave FIDS personnel who contributed to the early science and exploration of Antarctica under extraordinarily harsh conditions," said Professor Dame Jane Francis, BAS Director.

"Even though he was lost in 1959, his memory lived on among colleagues and in the legacy of polar research," Francis continued. "This discovery brings closure to a decades-long mystery and reminds us of the human stories embedded in the history of Antarctic science.

Dennis had set out to conduct a survey and geological work alongside surveyor Jeff Stokes on the day he died, according to BAS. As the men ascended the glacier and their dogs tired, Dennis pressed on without his skis when he fell into the crevasse. Stokes called to him and Dennis was initially able to answer.

British Antarctic Survey Dennis Bell (left) with his colleagues at Admiralty Bay Base in 1959. Dennis Bell (left) with his colleagues at Admiralty Bay Base in 1959.

Stokes dropped a rope down and attached it to the team of dogs while Dennis tied it to his belt. As the dogs pulled and Dennis neared the top, his belt broke and he plummeted again. After the second fall, there was only silence when Stokes called out for him.

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.

Russel Thomson, who worked on the base with Dennis, remembered his friend's jokes and tremendous, tremendous character.

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David told the BBC he and his sister have plans to lay their sibling to rest in the wake of the discovery.

"It's wonderful, I'm going to meet my brother," he said to the outlet. "You might say we shouldn't be thrilled, but we are. He's been found - he's come home now."



Read the original article on People
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)Aleim Alavez Garcia, 25, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for driving under the influence of alcohol and killing four people last July when his Toyota Tacoma crashed into a Prius on SR-163 in Kearny Mesa.

On Tuesday, a judge sentenced Alavez, who had no criminal history, to a mid-term sentence of 12 years.

Two drivers arrested in suspected DUI crash that killed four people identified

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Last summer, Alavez pleaded guilty to driving under the influence. His blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit, and prosecutors say he was driving over 100 miles an hour when his truck crashed into the Pruis carrying four men.

I want them to know Im very sorry, said Alavez in a statement to the court. I mourn for each and every one of them every day.

All four of the victims were refugees and in their 20s. Their families were not in court for the sentencing but watched online from overseas.

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A second man has been arrested in connection with a killing inside a Newport News gas stations convenience store in May.

Marvin Isaac Redding, a 40-year-old Newport News resident, was arrested Aug. 5 in Newark, Delaware, according to a release. He was extradited to Virginia and charged Tuesday with first-degree murder, grand larceny, robbery, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony and discharging a firearm in a public place.

Officers responded on the evening of May 17 to a shooting at the Family Fare at 685 J. Clyde Morris Blvd. The store is connected to a busy BP gas station, about a quarter-mile from Jefferson Avenue.

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Dreshaun Lamarr Pruden, a 32-year-old resident of Newport News, was on the floor shot multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.

Tony Jermaine Tynes, 39, was arrested May 20 and charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of a firearm by a felon and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

While these arrests do not bring Mr. Pruden back, we hope that this will bring some comfort to his family as they seek justice, Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew said in a statement.
COOK COUNTY, Ill. (WGN)  Three people have been arrested for stealing $10,000 worth of merchandise from retails stores across Cook County.

The Cook County Sheriffs Office said on Monday, July 21, sheriffs police investigators learned two women stole merchandise from an Alo store in Skokie and left the store in a black Chevrolet with no registration.

Later that same day, sheriffs police pulled over a black Chevrolet in Chicagos Auburn Gresham neighborhood for not having registration. While searching the vehicle, investigators found bags containing Alo and Lululemon merchandise with sensors still attached, according to officials.

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Man accused in hostage situation in Joliet Township facing felony charges

Police took the male driver and two female passengers into custody.

Detectives identified the two women as 20-year-old Tekiah White and 22-year-old Breauna Martin. They then discovered both White and Martin were involved in previous retail thefts at Ulta stores in Chicago and River Forest. They also learned White and the driver of the Chevrolet, identified as 22-year-old Tyshun Williams, were involved in previous thefts at a Lululemon store on Rush Street in Chicago, according to investigators.

Left to right: Tyshun Williams, Tekiah White and Breauna Martin (Photos: Cook County Sheriffs Office)

White and Martin were each charged with three counts of felony retail theft, while Williams was charged with one count of felony retail theft.

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All three were ordered released from custody at their initial court appearance.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Three individuals have been arrested in connection with an aggravated assault investigation in Sumter County.

The arrests were made following a shooting incident on Aug. 2, 2025, in Americus.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has charged Ashton Pride, 20, of Smithville, with multiple offenses including aggravated assault and aggravated battery.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

GBI said the investigation began when the Americus Police Department requested assistance after a shooting on Knollwood Drive.

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Officers found DShawndra Morris, of Desoto, with a gunshot wound.

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Morris received first aid from Americus police and Americus Fire and Rescue before being taken to Phoebe Sumter Hospital, and later transferred to Phoebe Putney in Albany.

On Aug. 8, Pride was arrested by a coalition of law enforcement agencies including the GBIs Regional Investigative Office, the Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the West Georgia Gang Task Force, and the Lee County Sheriffs Office.

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The same day, Micah Stephens, 19, was arrested by Americus Police officers, according to GBI.

Arderion Jones, 17, was apprehended on Aug. 11, by Americus and Smithville police, and GBI agents.

The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office.

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The Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune is continuing a new feature, highlighting local events happening in the Wisconsin Rapids area. Every week, youll find three local events ranging from childrens activities to festivals, learning events, performances and more. Do you have an event you want to highlight? Email event descriptions, posters, event links, photos and more details to news@wisconsinrapidstribune.com.

Check out an art exhibit

The Alexander House Center for Art & History will host a reception for its new exhibit Natures Wonders, 2025 from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at 1131 Wisconsin River Drive in Port Edwards. The exhibit is a juried mixed-media exhibition, celebrating beauty and diversity of nature through art inspired by landscapes, wildlife and ecosystems, according to the Alexander Houses website. The exhibit will be open from 1-4 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or by special appointment through Sept. 30. For more information, visit alexanderhouseonline.org.

Celebrate corn and community

Kellner Corn Fest will take place Friday, Aug. 15 and Saturday, Aug. 16 in Kellner, featuring fresh sweet corn, bounce houses, bingo and bags tournaments, a scavenger hunt for children, food trucks, live music and more. A parade will be held Saturday, as well. According to an event flyer, 80th Street South will be closed between Lake Road and Griffith Avenue starting at 10 a.m. Saturday through the end of the parade. The parade will start at 11 a.m., and the top three floats will win awards. For more information, find Kellner Corn Fest on Facebook.

Get dirty at this muddy event

The Rome Fire Department will have a truck set up to blast water at The Tri-Norse Ski Club's Mini-Mudder event.

The Tri-Norse Ski Club will host a Mini-Mudder from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at 1001 Adams County O in Rome. The family-friendly race is geared toward children ages 4-15. The race will take participants through a mud-filled obstacle course, about 1 mile up the ski hill and through the woods. The Rome Fire Department will have a truck set up to blast water, as well. Concessions will be available, including walking tacos and homemade mac and cheese. The event is $20 for the day. For more information, find The Tri-Norse Ski Club and Winter Park on Facebook.

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Explore Wisconsin Rapids: How well do you know your Wisconsin Rapids landmarks? Give our photo scavenger hunt a try.

More summer events in Wisconsin Rapids: Here are 7 events you don't want to miss this summer in the Wisconsin Rapids area

Contact Caitlin at cshuda@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @CaitlinShuda.

This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: Things to do in Wisconsin Rapids: Art exhibit, Corn Fest, Mini-Mudder
Three young suspects were arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of items from Whittier High School and causing significant damage to the property.

The suspects were identified as Jayden Martin, 19, and Alexiah Valles, 18, and a juvenile whose name was not released, according to the Whittier Police Department.

On July 20, the suspects entered a campus building through a window around midnight. They ransacked the property, stealing around $12,000 worth of items from multiple classrooms, including chemistry equipment, a replica skeleton, a live snake, a live fish and more.

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They fled the school with the stolen items and animals and left behind around $10,000 worth of damage, police said.

On July 21, with the help of the schools resource officer, the unidentified juvenile was named one of the burglary suspects.

A search warrant was conducted at the juveniles home, where all the stolen property, including the snake and fish, was recovered. The minor was arrested for felony vandalism and burglary.

Whittier High School in Whittier, California. (Google Maps)

On Aug. 11, the other two suspects were identified in the case and later taken into custody. They were booked at the Whittier Police Department Jail for vandalism and burglary.

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All recovered property was returned to its rightful owner, police said.

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The cost of supplies add up fast  and when parents are buying pens and notebooks for multiple children, the costs add up even faster.

The majority of metro Detroit school districts are set to welcome students back late this month and in early September. With consumer prices rising, supply needs may mean more families going into debt this year before the school year has even begun.

But many metro Detroit organizations are eagerly stepping in to help families in need. Here's when and where organizations are holding school supply drives this month:

Aug. 13: Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

Operation Backpack through Volunteers of America Michigan will be giving away backpacks filled with school supplies and two complimentary zoo tickets on Aug. 13 at the entrance to the zoo, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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More: City Institute offers free walking tours of Berkley, Dearborn, Mount Clemens and Pontiac

More: Focus: HOPE's Detroit Head Start program closes doors after losing federal grant

Aug. 15: Heilmann Recreation Center, 19601 Brock Ave., Detroit

Families can pick up backpacks with supplies at MiSide's back to school bash, which will include face painting, bounce houses, music, lunch and other activities from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Aug. 16: Neighborhood House, 1720 South Livernois, Rochester

In collaboration with the Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan, the Neighborhood House in Rochester will distribute school supplies, backpacks and clothing to school-aged children who receive government assistance from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Aug. 24: Fitzgerald High School, 23200 Ryan Road, Warren

The Warren Police Department will be giving out backpacks and school supplies while supplies last from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., as well as a K-9 demonstration, a drone demonstration, a bounce house and ice cream truck.

Contact Lily Altavena: laltavena@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 4 school supply drives across metro Detroit before the first day
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY)  West Virginia is selling four long-term care facilities, including ones in Marion and Preston counties.

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) announced Tuesday that Marx Development Group, an operator of multiple care facilities in the region, has agreed to purchase the following state facilities:

Hopemont Hospital in Terra Alta, Preston County

Jackie Withrow Hospital in Beckley, Raleigh County

John Manchin, Sr. Health Care Center in Fairmont, Marion County

Lakin Hospital in West Columbia, Mason County

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According to Gov. Morriseys office, the four facilities will be sold for $60 million, which he called a win for West Virginias patients and a win for the taxpayers of our state.

2 Upshur County schools would close under proposed consolidation plan

Morriseys office said that currently, the facilities operate at a $6 million annual loss; selling them will allow for increased levels of patient care and spur investment into the renovation and expansion of these facilities, Morrisey said in a press release.

As part of the sale, Marx Development Group has also agreed to build three to five new facilities in the state and source its labor and materials from in West Virginia.

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Prior to the sale, MDG and its subsidiaries own 55 properties, including similar care facilities in Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Kentucky, according to Morriseys office.

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CLANTON, Ala. (WIAT)  Four men and one juvenile were arrested in connection to shootings that happened in Chilton County last month.

According to the Chilton County Sheriffs Office, a person found their house in the Isabella community was struck by gunfire July 9. An investigation showed the same suspects were involved in a July 4 shooting where a residence was fired upon while a 12-year-old child was inside.

Lawmaker moves to crack down on school threats in Alabama

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Xzavia Stacy is charged with attempted murder, shooting into an occupied residence, shooting into an unoccupied residence, shooting into an unoccupied vehicle, two counts of shooting from the roadway and first-degree criminal mischief. Jeremiah Allen is facing the same charges.

Deavion Abercrombie is facing charges of attempted murder, shooting into an occupied residence, shooting into an unoccupied vehicle and shooting from the roadway. Jamoryn McNeil is charged with shooting into an unoccupied residence, shooting from the roadway and first-degree criminal mischief. Charges for the juvenile suspect are being withheld from the public because of their age.

Those with information on the shootings are asked to contact CCSO Inv. Samuel Davenport at Samuel.Davenport@chiltoncountyso.org.

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Are 5 Million Nondisabled Medicaid Recipients Watching TV All Day? Thats Unsupported

Almost 5 million able-bodied Medicaid recipients simply choose not to work and spend six hours a day socializing and watching television.

Scott Jennings on CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip on July 1

Republicans defended the GOP megabills Medicaid changes as targeting a group of people they believe shouldnt qualify: People who can work but instead choose to stay home and chill.

Several Republican politicians and pundits, including CNN senior political commentator Scott Jennings, pegged that groups size at about 5 million people.

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There are like almost 5 million able-bodied people on Medicaid who simply choose not to work, Jennings said July 1 on CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip. They spend six hours a day socializing and watching television. And if you cant get off grandmas couch and work, I dont want to pay for your welfare.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz picked up on some of these points during a July 14 appearance on Fox News. When the program was created 60 years ago, it never dawned on anyone that you would take able-bodied individuals who could work and put them on Medicaid. Today the average able-bodied person on Medicaid who doesnt work, they watch 6.1 hours of television or just hang out, Oz said.

The same talking points were picked up nearly verbatim by Montanas senior Republican Sen. Steve Daines, who repeated the assertion on Fox News:

The bottom line is this, Republicans are trying to save Medicaid. We want to strengthen Medicaid, while the Democrats are trying to drain Medicaid. So the reforms that we are proposing, what you just described there in the so-called provider tax, thats just a scheme that are used by the states to actually get more dollars than the federal government. This is one of the fastest growing entitlements currently in federal spending. Its designed to protect those who are most vulnerable. Its an important safety net, but weve got to reform Medicaid if were going to save Medicaid. Weve got to take able -bodied males who are laying on the couches at home and get them back to work and off of Medicaid. Put a work requirement in and the reforms we have made we think are reasonable and its, again, the way we save this very important safety net.

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Medicaid is a federal-state health insurance program that covers medical care for lower-income people.

Jennings cited two pieces of data: An estimate of how many fewer people would have coverage because of the work requirement and an analysis of how nonworking Medicaid recipients spend their time. But he made assumptions that the data doesnt support.

Jennings Misrepresents CBO Estimate

The 4.8 million figure stems from a June 24 Congressional Budget Office analysis of a preliminary House version of the massive tax and spending package. The office, Congress nonpartisan research arm, projected that provisions of the bill would cause 7.8 million fewer people to have health coverage by 2034. They would include 4.8 million people previously eligible for Medicaid described as able-bodied adults 19 to 64 years old who have no dependents and who do not meet the community engagement requirement of doing work-related activities at least 80 hours a month.

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Apart from working, doing community service and attending school also fulfill the community engagement requirement.

Jennings paired that statistic with a separate analysis of how nondisabled adult Medicaid recipients without dependent children spend their time.

But the CBO estimate was a projection  it doesnt represent the current number of nondisabled Medicaid recipients, nor does it say 4.8 million people in this group choose not to work. The figure represented how many fewer people would have coverage because of the bills community engagement requirement.

The challenge with Jennings comments  and theyve been echoed elsewhere by elected Republicans  is that CBO never said that 4.8 million people were out of compliance with the proposed work requirements; they said that 4.8 million people would lose coverage because of the work requirements, said Adrianna McIntyre, an assistant professor of health policy and politics at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

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Among the Medicaid expansion population, the law requires most adults without dependent children and parents of children older than 13 to work or participate in other qualifying activities 80 hours every month. States will need to verify that applicants met the work requirement for one to three months before they applied. States will also be required to verify that existing enrollees met the work requirement for at least a month between eligibility determinations, which will be required at least twice a year.

Research into Medicaid work requirements imposed at the state level has shown that people found it difficult to fulfill them and submit documentation, contributing to coverage losses.

In Arkansas, which added a work requirement to Medicaid in 2018, a study based on nearly 6,000 respondents found that about 95% of the target population were already working or qualified for an exemption, but a third of them did not hear about the work requirements. As a result, nearly 17,000 Medicaid recipients subject to work requirements lost coverage.

KFF found that adults ages 50 to 64 are more at risk of losing Medicaid coverage because of the new work requirements. More than 1 in 10 in that age group said they had retired, and among them, 28% reported being disabled, said KFF, a health information nonprofit that includes KFF Health News.

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Benjamin Sommers, a health care economics professor at the Harvard Chan school, said many of the 4.8 million able-bodied people in the CBO estimate will actually be engaged in the activities they are supposed to be doing, and lose coverage because they are not able to navigate the reporting requirements with the state and lose coverage from red tape.

When Recipients Dont Work, Its Rarely From Lack of Interest

There is no universal definition for able-bodied; disability can be assessed in different ways. But other studies offer much smaller estimates than 4.8 million Medicaid recipients without dependents who can work but choose not to.

Millions of working-age, nondisabled adults joined the Medicaid ranks in states that expanded eligibility under the Affordable Care Act. There were about 34 million working-age nondisabled Medicaid enrollees in 2024, according to the CBO, 15 million of whom enrolled through the ACA.

A KFF analysis found a smaller figure of 26 million Medicaid-covered adults, ages 19 to 64, who dont receive Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, or Medicare benefits.

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Among this group, KFF estimated, 64% were working either full time or part time. The reasons the rest were not working included caregiving (12%); illness or disability (10%); retirement, inability to find work, or other reason (8%); and school attendance (7%).

Few people cited lack of interest in working as the reason for their unemployment. An Urban Institute study found 2% of Medicaid expansion enrollees without dependents who neither worked nor attended school  or 300,000 people out of a projected 15 million subject to work requirements  cited a lack of interest in working as the reason they were unemployed.

This was consistent with the Brookings Institutions June 5 analysis that found that, of 4.3 million adult enrollees who worked fewer than 80 hours a month and did not have any activity limitations or illnesses, about 300,000 reported that they did not work because they did not want to.

Mostly Women, Mostly With a High School Degree or Less

When Republicans have described nondisabled adult Medicaid recipients, they have often portrayed them as men in their 30s playing video games in their parents basement or who smoke weed all day. Research paints a different picture.

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Jane Tavares and Marc Cohen, of the University of Massachusetts-Boston Gerontology Department, researched Medicaid recipients who are not disabled or working, have no dependent children under 18, and are not in school. They cited 2023 census data from the American Community Survey.

They found:

The average age of this population is 41, and 26% are older than 50.

Almost 80% are female.

Most, 80%, have a high school education or less.

Their median individual income is $0, and their median household income is $44,800.

About 56% worked in the past five years, and 23% worked in the prior year. About 30% are looking or available for work.

They are not healthy young adults just hanging out, the authors, along with health law experts Sara Rosenbaum and Alison Barkoff, wrote April 30.

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Its clear based on their prior work history and family size/income that they are exceptionally poor and have likely left the workforce to care for adult children or older adults, Tavares told PolitiFact. Even if these individuals could work, they would have very few job opportunities and it would come at the cost of the people they are providing care for.

AEI Study Not Definitively Linked to CBO Estimate

On the social platform X, Jennings posted the CBO letter and a May 29 analysis by the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank, about how nondisabled Medicaid recipients without children spend their time. PolitiFact contacted CNN to reach Jennings but did not receive a reply.

The author of that study, American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Kevin Corinth, analyzed survey data and found that Medicaid recipients who do not report working spend on average 6.1 hours a day on all socializing, relaxing and leisure activities (including television and video games).

But its uncertain whether the people in the survey population he analyzed overlap with the people included in the CBO analysis, said Jennifer Tolbert, deputy director of KFFs Program on Medicaid and the Uninsured.

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Corinth told PolitiFact it is difficult to say how the population he analyzed differs from the CBOs. Tavares, Cohen, Rosenbaum, and Barkoff said Corinths dataset defined disability narrowly, leading to a serious underestimation of disability among the population of Medicaid recipients he looked into. It focused on Medicaid recipients who receive Supplemental Security Income or have a health condition that prevents them from working. The researchers said this approach is too narrow because the SSI program accounts for only those most deeply impoverished adults with severe disabilities.

The group gave a hypothetical example of a 54-year-old woman with a serious heart condition who can work only a few hours a week. She may not be considered disabled under the SSI program, but she may be limited in the work she can do and may need time to rest.

Using her leisure time to justify a work requirement grossly misrepresents her reality, the group wrote.

Corinths analysis also shows that nonworking Medicaid recipients spend less time socializing, relaxing, or engaged in leisure activities than nonworking people who arent covered by Medicaid. Nonworking Medicaid recipients also spend more time looking for work and doing housework and errands, it found.

Our Ruling

Jennings said almost 5 million nondisabled Medicaid recipients simply choose not to work and spend six hours a day socializing and watching television.

The 5 million figure stems from a CBO projection that 4.8 million people would go without coverage by 2034 as a result of not fulfilling the community engagement requirements. It is not descriptive of current enrollees and does not specify that these people choose not to work.

Jennings cited an American Enterprise Institute analysis on how nondisabled Medicaid recipients with no dependents spend their time, but it is uncertain if the population in that analysis overlaps with that in the CBO estimate.

Current snapshots of the population Jennings described produce a smaller number. A survey by the Urban Institute found that 2% of Medicaid expansion enrollees without dependents who were neither working nor attending school  about 300,000 people  cited a lack of interest in working. Other research has found reasons this group doesnt work include caregiving, illness or disability, retirement, and inability to find work.

Studies of nonworking Medicaid recipients have found the majority are women and have a high school education or less. Their average age is 41, and more than half have a work history in the past five years.

We rate Jennings statement False.

Daily Montanan editor Darrell Ehrlick contributed to this report.

This article first appeared on KFF Health News and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
The family of a five-year-old boy with a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer has sued ICE after his treatments were interrupted when the agency deported him.

The boy, referred to BY the pseudonym Romeo, was deported along with his seven-year-old sister and their 25-year-old mother on April 25, according to a federal lawsuit filed in Louisiana.

The children are U.S. citizens and were born in Louisiana and the young boy was diagnosed with his condition at the age of two. Romeo needs regular specialized care and follow-up treatment to this day, the lawsuit states.

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The case is being brought by the National Immigration Project on behalf of the family as well as another mother, who also has two children who are U.S. citizens  which claims the families were deported without even a semblance of due process.

Documents seen by The Independent allege that ICE violated its own policy and multiple federal laws when officers secretly detained the families in hotel rooms, denied them the opportunity to speak to family and make decisions about or arrangements for their minor children.

The family of a five-year-old boy with an rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer, whose treatments were interrupted after he was deported by ICE, has filed a lawsuit against the agency (Getty)

The suit also alleges that the families were denied access to counsel and deported within less than a day in one case and just over two days in the other.

In the early morning hours of Friday, April 25, 2025, the United States government illegally deported three U.S. citizen children, along with their non-U.S. citizen family members, to Honduras, the suit states.

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Earlier that week, Plaintiffs Julia and  Rosario  two mothers of U.S. citizen children  attended what they believed to be regularly scheduled check-ins with a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement contractor.

In violation of the governments own directive, Julia and Rosario were never given a choice as to whether their children should be deported with them and were prohibited from contacting their counsel or having meaningful contact with their families to arrange for the care of their children.

Instead, they were held effectively incommunicado with their children and illegally deported without even a semblance of due process.

"ICEs actions in this case are not only unlawful, they are cruel and show a complete disregard for family values and the well-being of children," said Sirine Shebaya, Executive Director of the National Immigration Project.

The boy, referred to as the pseudonym Romeo, was deported along with his seven-year-old sister and their 25-year-old mother on April 25, according to a federal lawsuit filed in Louisiana (REUTERS)

"No government agency should have the power to disappear families, ignore medical needs, and disregard its own policies and constitutional rights simply in order to achieve a goal of unfettered enforcement.

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Without accountability, violations like this will only happen more frequently. Through this lawsuit, we seek justice, accountability, and the immediate safe return of these families to the United States."

Speaking via the NIP, Rosario said that the ordeal had been scary and overwhelming,

After so many years in the United States, it has been devastating to be sent to Honduras. Life in Honduras is incredibly hard. I dont have the resources to care for my children the way they need.

The lawsuit demands that ICE be held accountable for the unlawful deportation of U.S. citizens and its disregard for the rights and safety of children.

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The plaintiffs seek immediate return to the U.S, recognition of their right to make custodial decisions for their children, and compensation for the harms the families have endured.

The Independent has reached out to ICE for comment on the case.
The Robie Fire that broke out Tuesday and prompted evacuation warnings has now been fully contained, officials said in a news release Wednesday evening.

Officials earlier lifted all evacuation warnings after the fire caused concern for residents around Robie Creek, a rural community east of Boise on Idaho 21.

The Boise County Sheriffs Office told the Idaho Statesman on Wednesday morning that crews had made significant progress with the fire, which crews were able to keep to 54 acres overnight.

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The Idaho Department of Lands said it expected crews to have the fire fully contained  meaning they will create a line around its perimeter to stop the spread  by the end of Wednesday and extinguished by the end of Thursday, and the containment was reached.

There are approximately 80 personnel engaged in this fire, with numerous fire engines and fire equipment accessing the fire from the roadway, the department said in a news release. For public and firefighter safety, drive slowly and use caution driving in the fire area, especially on Robie Creek Road.

The Boise County Sheriffs Office issued the most severe evacuation order  Level 3 Go Now!  around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday for residents in the Robie Creek Area, which includes Lower Robie, Flowing Springs and Burnett Lane, but dropped the order to Level 2 by 7:30 p.m. and to Level 1 by 9:15 p.m. Those in Wilderness Ranch, a subdivision north of Robie Creek, also reached Level 2, which means being ready to evacuate at any moment.

All alerts were at Level 1, Be ready, as of 9:40 p.m. Tuesday and then cleared at about 10 a.m. Wednesday, the sheriffs office reported on Facebook.

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Residents evacuating must travel toward Clear Creek Road to leave the area, as Robie Creek Road is blocked, the sheriffs office said. The Idaho City Rodeo Ground is open for those in the area needing a place to keep their livestock.

Just before 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, the wildfire began along Robie Creek Road at mile marker 3.5, spreading within 30 minutes and quickly triggering evacuations, according to the sheriffs office. Within 15 minutes, the evacuation order jumped to the most severe level. The Idaho Department of Lands said in a news release that the fire was estimated at 50 acres, and one structure has been impacted.

Three engines from the Idaho Department of Lands, two U.S. Forest Service engines and a Forest Service crew responded to assist the Robie Creek Fire Department, the Thorn Creek Fire Department and the Wilderness Ranch Fire Department. Aerial resources are being used to attack the fire, along with water from Lucky Peak Lake. People are asked to keep clear of the area.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, according to the Idaho Department of Lands. Updates on the evacuations will be posted on the Boise County Sheriffs Office Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/boisecountysheriff.
Several people have been forced from their apartment after an early morning fire in Ohio on Wednesday.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Columbus Division of Fire responded around 1 a.m. to the Avenue of Polaris on reports of a structure fire, according to our news partner, WBNS in Columbus.

An initial investigation showed that when firefighters arrived, there was significant fire coming from the roof.

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Firefighters upgraded it to a two-alarm fire due to the buildings size, Lt. Nick Davis from the Columbus Division of Fire told Columbus media outlets.

TRENDING STORIES:

Approximately 50 people have been displaced due to the fire, and the American Red Cross has been called to assist, WBNS reports.

The lightning strike may be the cause of the apartment fire.

Firefighters continue to investigate.

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One of the wounded is an IDF soldier on leave, who fired his gun into the air and then at one of the terrorists, who was wounded from the gunfire.

About 50 Palestinians attacked residents of a new Jewish farm near the village of Duma in the West Bank, throwing stones and setting off firecrackers, Rescue Judea and Samaria Without Borders said.

Two people were injured. Both remained conscious and were evacuated for hospitalization.

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One of the wounded is an off-duty IDF soldier on leave, who fired his gun into the air and then at one of the terrorists, who was wounded from the gunfire. The terrorists at the scene almost stole the soldier's weapon. The other was a civilian. Both were evacuated from the scene for medical treatment.

Previous recent extremist settler attacks, but by Israelis

Late last month, Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian activist featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary No Other Land, was killed during clashes with settlers in the village of Umm al-Khair in the West Bank.

He was allegedly killed by Yinon Levi, an extremist who was sanctioned by the Biden administration.

An Israeli police officer inspects a house that was badly damaged from a suspected attack by Jewish extremists on two houses at Kafr Duma village near the West Bank city of Nablus July 31, 2015. (credit: REUTERS/ABED OMAR QUSINI)

A week earlier, extremist settlers had set fire to and vandalized several cars belonging to Palestinians in the West Bank, spraying the word "vengeance" on nearby structures.

Sarah Ben-Nun contributed to this report.
Russian attacks killed at least six civilians and injured 15 others across multiple Ukrainian regions over the past 24 hours, local officials said on Aug. 13.

Ukraine's Air Force said Russian forces launched 49 Shahed-type attack drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles overnight, as well as two Iskander-M or KN-23 ballistic missiles.

Air defenses reportedly destroyed or disabled 32 drones and two missiles over northern and eastern Ukraine.

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In Kherson Oblast, one person was killed and four others injured in a series of drone strikes, artillery attacks, and air strikes targeting residential areas and infrastructure, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

Russian forces damaged a high-rise building, five houses, a cell tower, vehicles, and a garage. Separate attacks on the morning of Aug. 13 destroyed a house in Chornobaivka, killing one person, and struck a civilian car in the Beryslav district, killing two people.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, one person was injured in a strike on the Vasylivka district, Governor Ivan Fedorov reported. Over the day, Russian forces carried out 529 attacks on 11 settlements, including six air strikes and more than 380 drone attacks, damaging houses, apartments, and vehicles.

In Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces killed two people in Kostiantynivka and injured 10 others in the region, Governor Vadym Filashkin said.

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Read also: About to be sold out  Fears mount in Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin meeting

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A 6-year-old girl was injured in a shooting around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning.

Read next: Man dies in motorcycle crash in Mercer County: PSP

Police responded to the 2400 block of Montgomery Avenue in Warren after the mother of the victim called 911.

My daughter just got shot, my house just got shot up again, the caller said. The dispatcher asked for clarification, and the caller confirmed that their daughter had been shot.

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Reports said that the girl was taken to St. Joseph Hospital and treated for a gunshot wound. Police found bullet holes in the back of the home.

There are individuals out there right now who know exactly who the perpetrators are and have information that they could pass along to the detectives that would help take these individuals off the street. We need them to come forward; they need them to help us, said Warrens Director of Safety and Service Eddie Colbert.

Detectives with the Warren Police Department used crime scene tape and arrived on the scene and at the hospital.

We need to find better ways to deal with our differences. You would hope that the perpetrators of these crimes see the devastation that they cause to the family, to the specific victims, to a community as a whole, as well as their own families, Colbert said. You would hope in a situation like this that these are the situations that become the tipping point where its no longer just being segmented over here  that innocent victims are now being caught in the crosshairs. You could hope that something ike this does not go in vain.

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Investigators said that the victim will recover, but the search continues to find who is behind the shooting.

The Warren Police Department asked anyone with information to contact Detective Frank Tempesta at 330-841-2651. They also asked that any residents in the vicinity of the shooting check their security cameras and provide any possible evidence to ftempesta@warren.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 WKBN.com.
Ahead of Donald Trumps in-person meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, the U.S. president participated in a virtual summit with European leaders including, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during they found common ground and vowed to put pressure on the Russia leader.

I would rate it a 10, you know, very, very friendly, Trump said about the meeting on Wednesday," per The Washington Post.

The meeting was arranged by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and also included leaders from France, Britain, Italy, Poland, the European Union and NATO, per NBC News. After the call, Zelenskyy and Merz spoke to reporters in Berlin and said the leaders had agreed on a strategy for Fridays meeting.

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According to The New York Times, the meeting between Putin and Trump will take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

When speaking about the virtual summit with European leaders, Merz said the group was very much in agreement on the issues ahead of Fridays Alaska meeting.

After Wednesdays meeting, Zelenskyy posted on X, thanking Trump and others involved in the virtual summit.

We value President Trumps leadership and determination to end this war as soon as possible, and we discussed key things that can make this happen and ensure lasting peace. I thank everyone for their engagement and shared vision, he wrote.

,          :  ,  ,  ,  ,    ,  ,     ,    .



    Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) August 13, 2025

Zelenskyy, European leaders insist a ceasefire must come first

One constant that has been repeated by Zelenskyy and other European leaders is that a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine must come first before serious negotiations can be held.

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We made it clear that Ukraine must be at the table at the next meeting. We want things to go in the right sequence: We want a ceasefire at the very beginning, and then a framework agreement must be drawn up. If Ukraine is prepared to talk about territorial negotiations, then we need to make sure that there are no violent changes to the border, Merz said during the press conference in Berlin, per CNN.

The German chancellor added that European leaders are looking for robust security guarantees for Ukraine.

In Alaska, we need to make sure that we maintain EU and Ukrainian security interests, in Anchorage, and that is the message that we wanted to convey to President Trump, Merz added, per CNN.

Trump expressed support for a ceasefire, security guarantees for Ukraine

During his comments after the meeting, Zelenskyy said that Trump expressed his support for obtaining a ceasefire first and then making security guarantees for Ukraine, per CNN.

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According to The New York Times, Zelenskyy shared that Trump also agreed that Russia should not be allowed to veto a potential NATO membership for Ukraine.

Other leaders have also expressed a need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The Prime Minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering  international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal, a Downing Street spokesperson said, according to CNN.

Leaders reiterate that Ukraine must be involved in discussions about territory

After Wednesdays meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to reporters in the south of France, saying any territorial exchange in Ukraine must only be discussed with Ukraine, according to CNN.

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The French president said the meeting between Trump and Putin is a good thing, but it is important that Europe is heard in issues that affect the continent, such as the war in Ukraine.

Macron added, As of today, there are no serious territorial exchange plans on the table, according to The New York Times.

Zelenskyy also spoke about the potential of conceding land in the Donbas to Russia and he confirmed that his position remains unchanged.

Any issue which deals with the territorial integrity of Ukraine cannot be discussed just like that, without looking at our constitution and the will of our people, Zelenskyy said, according to CNN. As to our principles, as to our territorial integrity, in the end, will be decided on the level of leaders. Without Ukraine at the table, its impossible to achieve.

Trump says Putin will face severe consequences if he doesnt agree to end the war

While speaking at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, Trump said that Russia will face consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war during Fridays meeting. He did not specify what those consequences would be, but called them very severe, per The New York Times.

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The president also said he will not be able to stop Putin from targeting Ukrainian civilians, because he has had that conversation with the Russian president before and the killings of civilians continued.

Since Trump returned to office, many of the sanctions the Biden administration levied against Russia have weakened.

I want to end the war, Trump said, according to The New York Times.

Zelenskyy told leaders that Putin is bluffing

According to NBC News, during the virtual meeting on Wednesday, Zelenskyy told Trump and European leaders that Putin is bluffing.

Speaking to reporters in Berlin, Zelenskyy said the parties have to combine negotiations with putting pressure on Russia.

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Sanctions should be strengthened if Russia will not go for ceasefire in Alaska, Zelenskyy said, according to NBC News.

The Ukrainian president added that he wants a ceasefire with Russia and eventually a trilateral meeting between himself, Trump and Putin.

Of course, we discussed the battlefield today, told President Trump and all our European allies, Putin is bluffing. Russia wants to occupy the whole Ukraine. This is his wish, Zelenskyy said, per NBC News.

NATO chief says the ball is now in Putins court

After the virtual summit on Wednesday, NATO chief Mark Rutte said the ball is now in Putins court, according to CNN.

He posted on social media, We are united in pushing to end ... this terrible war against (Ukraine) and achieve just and lasting peace. Appreciate (Trumps) leadership and close coordination with Allies.

Great call with @POTUS, @ZelenskyyUA & European leaders ahead of President Trumps meeting with Putin in Alaska. We are united in pushing to end to this terrible war against  & achieve just and lasting peace. Appreciate @realDonaldTrump leadership & close coordination with  Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) August 13, 2025

European Union President Ursula von der Leyen also posted on social media after the meeting, saying it was very good. She said those involved in the call have found common ground.

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We exchanged on the upcoming bilateral meeting in Alaska. Today Europe, the US and NATO have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine, Von der Leyen wrote on X. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace.
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Six artists from the Wabash Valley have been chosen to feature their works in the 101st Annual Hoosier Art Salon at the Indiana State Museum.

The salon will be showcasing work from artists, mostly from Indiana and some from abroad. The event is now in its 101st year, including 30 years in the Indiana State Museum. The annual Hoosier Art Salon exhibition has become known as the states preeminent juried art exhibition of works by Indiana artists. The salon will feature 145 paintings, drawings, sculptures, glass creations, and more. All the works of art being shown at the salon will also be available for purchase.

This annual exhibition provides a great opportunity for our visitors to experience a mix of different artistic styles and subject matter all in one place, said Paula Katz, senior curator of art for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. It also introduces these artists from across our state to new audiences who can connect with and appreciate their works.

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More than 250 artists applied for the juried exhibition, resulting in 665 submitted artistic works. Of those that submitted, the Hoosier Art Salon chose 129 for the exhibition, representing 33 Indiana counties and representatives from six other states. Of those chosen, nine are former best in show winners and 26 are being featured for the first time.

On behalf of the Hoosier Art Salon board of directors, we thank the Indiana State Museum for their support of the Hoosier Art Salon annual exhibition, said Rebecca Kubacki, president of Hoosier Art Salons board of directors. As we celebrate our 101st year, we look forward to our continued partnership and commitment to showcase Hoosier established and emerging artists.

Free admission offered at historic Indiana sites during Juneteenth

The Hoosier Art Salon began in 1925 when the Daughters of Indiana opened the doors on the first exhibition at the Marshall Field & Company department store in Chicago and featured 253 works from Indiana artists. In 1942, the exhibition finally moved to Indianapolis, and in 1990 moved to the museum.

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This year, the salon will be awarding more than $55,000 to top artists. Last years exhibition also generated more than $84,000 in sales for the featured artists. All artists who are shown in the exhibition have to be current residents of Indiana or have lived there for at least a year.

The Hoosier Art Salon exhibition is free for members and included in the museums admission. The cost for admission is $23 for adults, $17 for youth (3-17), and $21 for seniors. To learn more about the salon, you can visit the museums website.

A list of the artists from the area being featured can be found below:

Greencastle Matt Rees

Rosedale Curt Stanfield

Terre Haute Rod Bradfield Anna Lee Chalos-McAleese George McAleese

Dennison, Illinois Todd Stokes



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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Hospital officials confirm seven of the 10 people injured in Mondays deadly explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works have been released.

An Allegheny Health Network spokesperson tells Channel 11 that all seven patients in AHNs care have been discharged.

A UPMC spokesperson says three patients are still being treated at UPMC Mercy. There was no word on their condition.

>>> PHOTOS: Explosion at U.S. Steel Clairton Works Plant <<<

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In addition to those injured, the explosion at the plant killed two people. One of those was Timothy Quinn, and the other has not been identified.

An unknown number of people were treated at the scene.

United Steelworkers Local 1557 has set up a GoFundMe campaign to support the families of those who died or were injured. Click here to donate.

>>> U.S. Steel CEO says Clairton Coke Works is now safe; nothing indicated problems before explosion <<<

The explosion happened in Batteries 13 and 14, where routine maintenance had been scheduled. An investigation into the explosion is underway, and several batteries remain shut down in the meantime.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced on Tuesday that the agency has received over 100,000 applications in less than two weeks. The statement was released only a day after The New York Times reported that immigrant detainees in ICE custody had reached a "modern record" high of 60,000 people.

President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) on July 4, which appropriated nearly $75 billion to increase ICE's capacity to detain immigrants and conduct immigration-related arrestsmaking ICE the highest-funded law enforcement agency in the country. With this funding, the Trump administration plans to reach its stated goal of deporting 1 million undocumented immigrants a year and reach an unprecedented quota of 3,000 immigrant arrests per day.

To keep up with these demands, ICE has launched an aggressive recruitment campaignbankrolled by the nearly $30 billion from the OBBBA appropriated for hiringand seeks to add 10,000 officers to the agency's more than 20,000 law enforcement and support personnel by 2029. To meet this end, Uncle Sam has been repurposed by ICE to recruit "patriotic Americans" to apply. The agency has also sweetened the deal by offering high starting salariessome can reach $90,000a maximum $50,000 signing bonus over three years, up to $60,000 in federal student loan repayments, and retirement benefits.

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Last week, the agency also announced it was ending the age limitations for applicantspreviously set between 21 and 37 or 40 years old, depending on the positionand began reaching out to retired federal law enforcement agents. The ICE recruitment website has a specific page dedicated to those who wish to "return to mission," encouraging retirees to apply for ICE openings and "secure our communities and uphold our laws" during a "pivotal moment in our country's history." Selected retired federal law enforcement officers may also receive a salary from ICE while still collecting their pension.

Some speculate that the change to age limits and other policies means that ICE is having a hard time finding qualified applicants. But Tom Homan, the White House border czar, defended the move. "There are a lot of roles at ICE for people who are over 40," he told Time magazine. "Just because someone comes in and they're 55maybe they can't carry a badge and a gun, they can certainly do administrative duty, they can do targeting on the intelligence team."

John Sandweg, acting director of ICE under the Obama administration, told Time that recruiting from retired federal law enforcement was a "pretty creative solution" to quickly fill thousands of openings and get boots on the ground. Retired law enforcement officers won't need as much training as fresh recruits, who take much longer to hire, undergo a background check, receive security clearances, and get trained at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers with limited capacity.

ICE recruitment efforts have also targeted active local law enforcement officers. At the end of July, ICE sent recruitment emails to Florida law enforcement seeking "officers like you who are committed to serving with integrity, professionalism, and a deep sense of duty," reports CNN. The recruitment effort angered local sheriffs who previously agreed to partner with ICE on deportation efforts and are unable to match the hiring benefits offered by the agency.

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Despite the heavy-handed recruitment efforts, Sandweg told Time that it will likely take "three years before you see a significant increase of ICE agents on the street."

But even without a noticeable increase in active ICE agents, the Trump administration has been able to detain a record-high number of peoplemost of whom are nonviolent immigrantsby using methods that have violated due process and civil rights. Several lawsuits challenging ICE arrest tactics and detention center policies have subsequently been filed. Increasing ICE law enforcement and personnel from 20,000 to 30,000 people will only perpetuate these abuses.

The post With $75 Billion Boost, ICE Launches Aggressive Recruitment Campaign appeared first on Reason.com.
OWSEGO COUNTY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  A 76-year-old man drowned and was found in the water along the shore off Lake Ontario, according to the Oswego County Sheriffs Office.

On Tuesday, August 12, around 9:31 p.m., members of the sheriffs office were sent to the shore of Lake Ontario, west of the SUNY Oswego Campus, off County Route 89 in the Town of Oswego, for a man reported in the water.

Members of the Oswego County Sheriffs Department, along with members of the Town of Oswego Volunteer Fire Department, Oswego City Fire Department, Oswego City Police, and New York State Police, searched for the man.

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Around 10:20 p.m., the man, identified as 76-year-old Barratt Gorman, was found in the water and pronounced dead.

Barratt lived nearby on County Route 89. He was swimming at the time of the incident and regularly swam in the area, according to the sheriffs office.

This incident is still under investigation.

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ENFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  The northbound side of Interstate 91 was closed Tuesday night between Exit 49 and the Massachusetts state line due to a motorcycle crash, according to Connecticut State Police.

Massachusetts State Police said they responded to the crash involving a motorcycle and a truck around 8:45 p.m.

Road closures in effect after fatal motorcycle crash in Waterbury

The northbound Exit 49 on ramp was also closed but has since reopened.

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State police said they were assisting Massachusetts State Police with an investigation. They did not comment on how many vehicles were involved, if anyone was injured, or the nature of the MSP investigation.

This is a developing story. Stay with News 8 for updates.

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Democratic Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger has vowed to overhaul the states education system. The plan aims to strengthen Virginias K-12 schools as the state faces a teacher shortage and low rankings on its post-COVID educational recovery.

In addition to addressing the teacher shortage through recruitment and support plans, Spanberger aims to ensure academic rigor while "modernizing crumbling schools." Additionally, shes looking to reject efforts to take funding from public schools and diverting it to voucher programs.

"Virginias kids deserve strong schools that prepare them for success  regardless of their ZIP code," Spanberger is quoted as saying at the top of her plan.

Democratic Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger is vowing to overhaul the state's K-12 education system while also bolstering higher education and child care.

Potential Youngkin Successor Focused On Message In Tough Race To Keep Swing-state 'Red'

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The Education Recovery Scorecard found Virginia ranked 41st in reading recovery between 2019 and 2024, while it ranked 51st  behind all states and D.C.  in math recovery. Additionally, the state ranked 46th in math improvement over the same period.

"The federal pandemic relief dollars may be gone, but the pandemics impact lingers in many Virginia schools. Even without federal relief dollars, states could be targeting continuing federal Title I dollars and state dollars to implement interventions which have been shown effective, such as tutoring and summer learning," the organization wrote in a press release announcing Virginias rankings.

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Spanberger isnt just aiming to bring more teachers into the classroom, shes also advocating for higher salaries for Virginia educators, which she believes will help "keep our best and brightest in the classroom."

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Education was a hallmark issue of Virginias last gubernatorial race with now-Gov. Glenn Youngkin and former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe debating parents involvement in the classroom. This came as controversy erupted over heated school board meetings in Virginas Loudoun County. Many cited McAuliffes remark that parents should not tell schools what to teach as their reason for voting for Youngkin, who championed parents rights.

Opinion: Americans Need To Work Together To Fix Education. Weve Both Done It Before On Opposite Sides

In March, Spanberger slammed Youngkin and Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, who is running for Virginia governor as a Republican, when they proposed public school funding cuts. She called the proposal "misguided" and expressed hope that "Democrats in our General Assembly will take the necessary steps to protect these important investments."

Spanberger also appeared to take a swipe at Youngkin in a June interview with Dogwood, seeming to accuse the governor of playing politics with education.

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"We have to stop trying to pit parents against teachers or parents against educators for political reasons," Spanberger told Dogwood.

On her website and in her education plan, Spanberger emphasizes her personal interest in Virgina public education as her three daughters are all students in the system.

"As a mom, Im so grateful for the hardworking, dedicated Virginians who make sure our children have a safe, positive, and productive school day. As Governor, Ill make sure our educators get the support they need to continue providing a world-class education for our Commonwealths kids," Spanberger wrote in a social media post on Wednesday.

The Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls plan also includes efforts to strengthen child care and higher education in Virginia.

Statue of George Mason on the campus of George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.

For higher education, Spanberger is looking to both make it more affordable for students while also investing in Virginias Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The state is home to several higher education institutions, including Virginia Tech, University of Virginia and George Mason University, among others. Its HBCUs include Hampton University, Virginia State University and several others.

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In her plan, Spanberger also says shes looking to ensure that Virginia parents have access to "high-quality child care in their area." However, this push is about more than ensuring good child care, its also about improving the states worker retention by helping ease the burden on working parents.

In response to a Fox News Digital request for comment, Sears said, "Abigail Spanbergers education plan shows little understanding of the difference between her political agenda and policies that actually positively impact Virginias students and families. I believe every child should have the chance to succeed and every parent should have a voice in their childs education. Thats why I introduced the CAREs plan, to clear childcare waitlists, attract and retain great educators, expand access through regional partnerships, and cut taxes on essential baby goods. My focus will always be on empowering families, protecting girls sports, and ensuring that no matter where a child lives in Virginia, they can get a quality education that prepares them for life."





Original article source: Abigail Spanberger, Democratic governor hopeful, unveils education overhaul plan as election nears
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  The Abilene Independent School District has cause for celebration following the release of the 2024-2025 school accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Courtesy of Abilene ISD

Abilene ISD predicts more A and B campuses in upcoming TEA ratings

Abilene High School earned a B rating of 86, jumping 10 points from last year and 16 points from the 2022-2023 school year. Three of the districts four high schools saw increases in their College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) scores, with two improving by 20 points or more.

Courtesy of Abilene ISD

One of AISDs top performers, ATEMS, received a score of 94. Other A- or B-rated campuses include:

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Abilene High School

ATEMS

Woodson Center for Excellence

Craig Middle School

Alcorta Elementary

Austin Elementary

Bonham Elementary

Abilene ISD unveils Budget Blueprint for public transparency

We know that we still have work to do, and we are deeply committed to this work because our students deserve nothing less, the district shared. Importantly, we also recognize that these ratings are not the only measure of school quality. Abilene ISD does not uncritically endorse the A-F accountability system. Research consistently shows that A-F systems often fail to capture the complexity of school performance and can unfairly penalize schools serving students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Still, we highly value transparency, accountability, and setting measurable goals for academic growth. Our community deserves to know where we stand, and more importantly, where were going.

In just one year, the percentage of AISD students attending A- or B-rated schools rose from 6% to 34% of the districts more than 14,000 students.

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  An Army sergeant accused of shooting five fellow soldiers on an Army base in Georgia last week is set to be transferred to Joint Base Charleston for pre-trial confinement.

Sgt. Quornelius Radford had a pre-trial confinement review on Tuesday, Aug. 12, where the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel (Army OSTC) brought charges against him for an Aug. 6 shooting in the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team complex at Fort Stewart.

28-year-old Radford opened fire that Wednesday morning at his workplace, managing to hit and injure five soldiers before being tackled by nearby coworkers.

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None of the shooting victims has been publicly identified, but they all survived their injuries.

He is charged with two specifications of attempted premeditated murder, four specifications of attempted unpremeditated murder, one specification of domestic violence, three specifications of aggravated assault inflicting grievous bodily harm, and three specifications of aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon in violation of Articles 80, 128, and 128b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

At his military court appearance on Tuesday, Nexstars WSAV learned that one of the victims shot was Radfords intimate partner, and two of the shooting victims were premeditated.

According to information provided by Fort Stewart officials, Radford will be transferred to the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston, which is at Joint Base Charleston, to be held for pre-trial confinement.

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News 2 has reached out to Joint Base Charleston for further information.

A neutral judge advocate is set to be assigned as a preliminary hearing officer, and from there on, a preliminary hearing will be scheduled.

Radford must have a preliminary hearing before charges can be referred for trial. The preliminary officer must review the evidence to determine if there is probable cause for the preferred charges and then issue a report.

The Army OSTC will consider the report, along with the available evidence, and determine whether to refer the charges to a general court-martial, an Aug. 12 news release stated. If charges are referred, the case will be assigned to a military judge who will schedule an arraignment and trial date.

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Two victims spoke at the hearing for Radford, stating they believe he is a danger to himself and others, WSAV reported. Radford did not speak at the hearing.

Although Army officials have released few details surrounding the incident, investigators did say that Radford used a personal handgun, not a military firearm, during the shooting.

Radford, a Jacksonville, Florida native, enlisted as an automated logistical specialist in 2018. He has had no combat deployments.

Fort Stewart is home to the 3rd Infantry Division and is located about 41 miles southwest of Savannah, Ga. It is the largest Army base east of the Mississippi River.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  An accused serial rapist in the United States illegally has entered a plea deal in a Las Vegas case.

Carlos Nava, 48, pleaded guilty through an Alford plea agreement to one felony charge of sexual assault with use of a deadly weapon on July 30, according to court records. Through an Alford plea, a defendant acknowledges prosecutors may have enough evidence to lead to a conviction but does not admit guilt.

Carlos Nava, 47, is accused of raping one girl and four women in southern Nevada. (KLAS)

Nava was indicted in February 2023 for alleged sexual assaults occurring between 2009 and 2015 involving four alleged victims, court records show.

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Navas DNA matched rape kits from three of the alleged victims, prosecutors said. A fourth alleged victim identified Nava. A fifth victim could not be located again.

Bail substantially reduced for accused Las Vegas serial rapist in U.S. illegally

An amended indictment lists the initials of four victims.

The 8 News Now Investigators previously reported that Nava re-entered the United States illegally at least eight times since 2002, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesperson said in 2023. While Nava was granted voluntary removal to Mexico several times, he was also removed after the placement of immigration detainers at least twice. He had been encountered by law enforcement in California, Arizona and Las Vegas.

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Navas criminal history includes arrests for battery and domestic violence, and he was last removed from the U.S. to Mexico in 2020, according to ICE.

An arrest report obtained by the 8 News Now Investigators detailed the following timeline:

July 10, 2022: A sex worker told police that she agreed to have sex in exchange for $100 with a man who picked her up in a white truck in front of The Orleans Casino. The woman told police that the man refused to stop performing a sex act, held a knife to her throat, removed a condom and sexually assaulted her, stole her money and phone, shattered a glass bottle on her head, and chased her as she tried to leave. The woman escaped and ran naked to a nearby Walgreens for help. Detectives reviewed surveillance from nearby businesses.

Eleven days later, police stopped Nava. A search warrant was issued for his DNA and to process his white truck for evidence, according to police. Detectives said they found a backpack with latex gloves and 17 different pairs of womens panties folded, stacked and with a rubber band around them.

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Though rare, people who commit sexual assaults related crimes have been known to keep property belonging to victims as a trophy of the incident, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrest report stated. Nava was arrested. In October, the DNA was linked to four other sex crimes.

On August 12, 2003, an underage individual said a man picked her up and they agreed to have sex. She said the man took her to an abandoned house where they had consensual sex. A friend of the alleged victim called police. She decided that she did not want to prosecute, according to the arrest report.

On February 4, 2010, a woman said that she mistakenly got into a car that she thought was her friends in Henderson. She told police that once inside the car, the man driving pulled out a knife, locked the doors, and said I want sex. She also told police that the man demanded that she remove her clothes and sexually assaulted her. A healthcare worker who performed a sexual assault nurse examination told police that she believed that the alleged victim was mentally delayed.

On March 16, 2013, a sex worker told police that while she was on Boulder Highway soliciting, she got into a vehicle. She said the driver did not like the price that she was offering, put a knife to her throat and sexually assaulted her. She told police that she was scared because she did not want to go to jail for being a runaway.

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On July 17, 2015, a woman told police that while she was looking for marijuana on Desert Inn Road, she got into a car. She said that the driver pulled out a knife, told her to take her clothes off and sexually assaulted her. On November 2, 2022, police talked to the alleged victim again. She said that she was actually a sex worker soliciting on Boulder Highway. She said that she had escaped from the suspects car by climbing through the drivers side window and ran from the car naked. When police showed her panties found in Navas possession, the woman identified a pair as the same style that she would have been wearing.

According to the plea agreement reached between Nava and the Clark County District Attorneys office, a judge is expected to sentence Nava to life in prison with parole eligibility after 10 years. He is also expected to receive an additional one-to-two-year consecutive term for a deadly weapon enhancement.

The plea agreement also addresses whether a defendant is not a United States citizen and states that they could be deported and unable to gain United States citizenship.

Nava remains in custody with $30,000 bail. His sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 25.

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State Rep. Stephen Wooden, D-81, speaks at a press conference in front of the J.H. Campbell plant in Ottawa County's Port Sheldon Township on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (Photo/Sarah Leach)

OTTAWA COUNTY  We are standing here today to stand up to the Trump Administration to tell them, Get this coal plant shut down.'

That was the message that lawmakers, health professionals and other officials said at a Tuesday, Aug. 12, press conference near the J.H. Campbell coal plant in West Michigans Ottawa County, which has become the epicenter of a legal battle between the U.S. Department of Energy and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

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The group believes the Trump Administration created an energy emergency to justify issuing an emergency order May 23 mandating that Consumers Energy keep the plant open at least 90 days, which superseded the utilitys closure plan slated for May 31, along with the approval of closure by state regulators.

Were here today because in 2024 Donald Trump made a deal with the fossil fuel industry: You give me a billion dollars to prop up my campaign, and I will prop up your industry,' said state Rep. Stephen Wooden, D-81, whose district includes the northeast portion of Grand Rapids.

And thats why coal plants that were scheduled to close have been forced to stay open, costing Michigan rate payers a million dollars a day, at a time when we are still dealing with a cost-of-living crisis, when a trade war is costing the average Michigan family $2,500 a year, he said.

We are standing here today to stand up to the Trump Administration to tell them, Get this coal plant shut down, to re-shut it down, to listen to local folks, to listen to Michiganders, to listen to the utilities that have already scheduled this closure, instead of propping up a coal plant that doesnt need to stay open.

Consumers Energy has said closing the J.H. Campbell plant was expected to save Michigan ratepayers $600 million by 2040. (Photo/Sarah Leach)

How we got here

The Campbell Plant is Consumers last  and largest  coal-fired plant in Michigan.

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The plant, operating since 1962, was originally scheduled to close partially in 2030 and wholly in 2040. But the utility announced in 2021 it was moving the plan up by 15 years for an operations end date of May 31, 2025.

Consumers has said closing the plant was expected to save Michigan ratepayers $600 million by 2040.

The utility was seeking to end coal use altogether by 2025 as part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality.

Since the announcement, Consumers has been actively preparing the plant for full retirement, a spokesperson said last year.

The complex will officially go into retirement with an aim to go cold and dark after 2025, said former Consumers spokesperson Kristen Van Kley. In 2026 and on, the complex will be demolished with a plan to restore the site over time.

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The plant, when operating at full capacity, can generate 1,450 megawatts of electricity. Michigan consumed about 113,740 gigawatt hours of electricity in 2019, according to a 2020 report from the U.S. Department of Energy .

At the time, Van Kley said new technologies would ensure Consumers would be able to continue supporting the statewide grid.

Energy efficiency, demand response and emerging technologies such as grid modernization and battery storage will help us lower peak customer demand for electricity and deliver exactly what Michigan needs, she said. Our plan is designed to respond to emerging needs, adapt to changing conditions and embrace emerging innovative technologies as we work to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

On May 23, Secretary Wright directed the Midcontinent Independent System Operator in coordination with Consumers, to ensure that the 1,560 megawatt plant [remain] available for operation, minimizing any potential capacity shortfall that could lead to unnecessary power outages.

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Todays emergency order ensures that Michiganders and the greater Midwest region do not lose critical power generation capability as summer begins and electricity demand regularly reach high levels, Wright said in a prepared news release .

The Energy Department said the emergency order, which is issued by the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response, is authorized by Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act and is in accordance with President Trumps Executive Order: Declaring a National Energy Emergency to ensure that power generation availability in the region does not dip below 2024 capacity levels.

This administration will not sit back and allow dangerous energy subtraction policies threaten the resiliency of our grid and raise electricity prices on American families. With President Trumps leadership, the Energy Department is hard at work securing the American people access to affordable, reliable, and secure energy that powers their lives regardless of whether the wind is blowing or the sun is shining.

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In June, Nessel  along with a collective group of public interest organizations, Minnesota and Illinois, Maryland Office of Peoples Counsel, and the Organization of Midcontinent Independent System Operator States  challenged the DOEs order to keep the Campbell plant in Port Sheldon Township to remain open for 90 days, arguing that the move will force customers to absorb exorbitant costs.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright issued the emergency order demanding that the plant remain available for operation on Friday, May 23  just eight days before the plant was scheduled to shut down, a plan that has been in place since 2021.

The U.S. Department of Energy said the move was intended to minimize the risk of blackouts and address critical grid security issues in the Midwestern region of the United States ahead of the high electricity demand expected this summer.

Nessel filed a request for rehearing with the DOE, challenging what she described as an arbitrary and illegal order seeking to stop the planned retirement of Consumers Energys J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant in West Olive, Michigan, under the pretense of a fabricated energy emergency.

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She said the order will burden Michigan utility customers with unnecessary costs and needless additional pollution from the 60-year-old Ottawa County coal plant that was scheduled to close May 31.

A request for rehearing is a legal process where a party asks a court to reconsider a decision it has already made. Its typically used when a party believes the court made a mistake in its initial ruling, whether by overlooking a crucial fact, misinterpreting the law, or making some other error.

When the DOE didnt respond to Nessels request within 21 days, she filed a petition for review July 24 with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Washington, D.C., Circuit, challenging the U.S. Department of Energys order, claiming the arbitrary and illegal move forced the continued operation of the plant under the pretense of a fabricated energy emergency.

Petition-for-ReviewCOA-DC-SOM-v-USDOE-DOE-Order-No-202253-002

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This unprecedented order by the Department of Energy declares an emergency without evidence, completely ignores state and federal regulators that approved the plants retirement, and will potentially put enormous costs onto utility customers who receive no real benefit, Nessel said. I will continue to fight to protect Michigan customers from unreasonable costs imposed by the federal government.

Last month, Nessel also filed a pleading before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in response to Consumers request to recover the costs from running the Campbell plant beyond its initial retirement date. That proceeding is still ongoing.

Katie Carey, director of media relations for Consumers, said Tuesday that the utility is continuing to comply with the DOE order and has requested the timely recovery of costs associated with plant operations.

We expect FERC will take timely action on our request. Our FERC filing from Friday, June 6, requests approval of a mechanism to recover and allocate those costs through MISO.

Whats happening now

Tuesdays event saw environmental activists, health experts and politicians calling on the closure of the Campbell plant  whether that be the DOE not renewing the emergency order or reversing it before it expires on Aug. 20.

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Jayce Bylenga, West Michigan regional coordinator for Michigan League of Conservation Voters, read a prepared statement from Nessel at Tuesdays event, which Bylengas group helped organize, along with the Sierra Club.

My department signed a settlement with Consumers in 2021 that included the retirement of the Campbell coal plant and made all due preparations to maintain our states energy load without it. Our plan, were it not curtailed by the baseless actions of the Trump Administration, just eight days before it would have gone into effect  was set to save Michigan customers nearly $600 million never before is the Department of Energy delayed the retirement of a power plant absent a request from the operating utility or local government body, Nessel said in the statement.

Nessel said the majority of Michigan residents dont want to see rate hikes passed along to them and the continuation of burning fossil fuels.

Jayce Bylenga, West Michigan regional coordinator for Michigan League of Conservation Voters, reads a prepared statement from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel at Tuesdays event demanding that the J.H. Campbell coal plant in Ottawa County close. (Photo/Sarah Leach)

To put it plainly, no one asked for this, Nessel said. The unprecedented order of the department of the DOE fabricates an emergency without evidence, completely ignores the state and federal regulators that approve the plans retirement and will potentially put enormous costs onto Michigan utility customers who receive no real benefit, and thats before taking into account the environmental and public health health costs of continuing to fuel a full-powered plan.

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Michigan must be present in the fight to maintain self-determination over where our power comes from. The DOE ignored my request for rehearing, and as a result, I have filed a petition for review with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to overturn this expensive and unlawful order. As Ive done throughout my years in office, my department will continue to fight for affordable utility bills on the rights of Michiganders to clean up their energy production.

Dr. Steven Ashmead, a family physician and a member of the Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action, said coal-fired plants pose serious negative health effects to residents, which is part of well-settled science.

Dr. Steven Ashmead, a family physician and a member of the Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action, spoke at an event Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, calling for the coal-fired power plant in Port Sheldon Township to close. (Photo/Sarah Leach)

Medical science has had over 250 years to study the health impacts of using coal for heat and energy production. The health effects have been documented at every stage of coal production and combustion, from mining to the disposal of ash, Ashmead said. These pollutants directly affect our hearts, blood vessels, lungs and brains. Children, the elderly like myself, pregnant women and individuals with chronic disease and those that work outdoors are at increased risk of exposure to these deadly pollutants.  That does not include the millions of dollars that will be spent on health problems associated with burning of coal, such as asthma, COPD, heart attacks, stroke, cancer and many other chronic diseases.

Whats the cost to keep Campbell open?

Nessel said Wrights order would lead to Michiganders feeling a pinch in their pockets.

The costs of maintaining production at the plant, long since prepared for closure, could be an enormous burden on the rate-paying customers of Consumers Energy, she said. And thats before taking into account the environmental and public health costs of continuing to fuel a coal-powered plant.

In a June 3 statement, a Consumers spokesperson said the company is currently complying with the order.

We are currently in compliance with the order, have arranged for new shipments of coal, some of which arrived last week, and will continuously operate the Campbell Plant, Trisha Bloembergen, West Michigan media relations specialist, said in a June 3 email. We are still determining the overall cost, but want to ensure those costs are shared across MISO and not all on Consumers Energy customers.

Generating power at the Campbell plant is likely to be costly for ratepayers, experts from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis wrote June 5.

Campbell Units 1 and 2, which are 63 and 58 years old, respectively, were already increasingly uncompetitive in the MISO market, meaning it cost more to generate electricity than what it could be sold for, said energy data analysts Seth Feaster and Dennis Wamsted.

According to data filed by Consumers at FERC, the operation and maintenance costs for the two units totaled $45.80 per megawatt-hour (MWh) in 2023 (the most recent data available). That puts both units in the red almost all the time in MISO: S&P data shows that the monthly around-the-clock price at the Michigan hub has been above $40/MWh just twice in the past two years, and never during the summer.

In other words, the plant would lose money on virtually every MWh generated if past prices hold this summer, costs that could add up to many more millions of dollars if the units at Campbell are run for any substantial amount of time, Feaster and Wamsted said.

Beyond operational costs, there are fuel and staffing costs as well.

Coal itself has gotten more expensive, said Frank Rambo, executive director at Horizon Climate Initiative, a nonprofit organization that works to use cost-saving energy market reforms to address the causes and impacts of climate change.

That fleet has gotten more expensive to run. Its coal, which used to be synonymous with cheap power. Its now among the most expensive power  and then the excess costs that are incurred because theyre running more expensive resources.

Ultimately, it will be residents who foot the bill, Rambo said.

They run those coal plants, and then they turn around, go to their commissions and recover those excess costs from their customers, he said.

Rambo said the price could be even higher than normal because Consumers would need to buy coal on the open market rather than enter into a new contract with a mine.

We dont need to sign a new long-term coal supply contract because were shutting the plant down, he said. Now they may have to buy coal on the spot market.

The price of coal has hovered around $110 per ton on the U.S. commodities exchange. As of June 19, the price of coal was $103.85 per ton.

In 2024, Campbell burned more than 3.7 million tons of coal, Feaster and Wamsted said. That is an average of 12,700 tons of coal a day, which would amount to $1,318,895 per day using todays prices.

According to Dan Scripps, chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, keeping this coal plant on life support even for 90 days may add upwards of $100 million in additional costs  the bulk of which will be passed on to ratepayers across the 15 states.

All of the Campbell plants coal was previously delivered by rail from the Powder River Basin in northern Wyoming, according to the IEFF.

Two of the PRBs biggest mines provided that coal: Arch Resources Black Thunder Mine, which delivered 2.25 million tons, and Peabody Energys North Antelope Rochelle Mine, which delivered 1.47 million tons.

Rambo also noted the plant staffing issue, explaining that Consumers likely already had phased out several employees who were then called back.

We were laying these people off. Now were going to have to hire them as contractors, likely at a higher pay rate because the work would be temporary, Rambo explained.

There are all sorts of excess costs that would not be incurred, but for the fact that theres now this executive order, he said.

Carey, of Consumers, said Tuesday that the utilitys costs will depend on a number of factors, including offsetting revenue from plant operations, and are still being determined.

The cost of operating the plant will be shared by customers across the north and central MISO region, consistent with the DOE order, she said. We will continue to work with MISO and with federal and state regulators to ensure compliance with the order and appropriate cost recovery.
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Midland mother was arrested last week after police said she drove under the influence, rear-ended another vehicle, and told her passenger, who was allegedly intoxicated, to take her baby and leave the scene.

According to an arrest affidavit, officers were called to 3525 Andrews Highway around 9:15 p.m. on Aug. 8 for a two-car crash. Investigators said a 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, driven by 38-year-old Shiretha Ann Hamilton, rear-ended a BMW stopped at a red light after she failed to control her speed.

Police said Hamilton and the other driver moved to a nearby parking lot, but she left before officers arrived. The driver of the BMW told police the passenger was intoxicated and had taken a baby that was in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Officers then located the passenger walking near Bedford Avenue. Police said the woman showed signs of intoxication and smelled of alcohol. The woman told police that Hamilton, the driver, had asked her to take the child to her home before police could arrive.

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Officers arrested the passenger for public intoxication, a class C misdemeanor, due to her consumption of an unknown amount of alcohol, leaving the scene of an accident, and entering the property of another person to get away from officers, raising the possibility of harm to the baby. (Texas Penal Code 49.02, also known as public intoxication, states that a person commits an offense if they appear in a public place while intoxicated to the degree that they may endanger themselves or another.)

Officers later found Hamiltons vehicle at a residence on Gatson Drive with the engine running. According to the report, multiple empty and broken miniature liquor bottles were found inside and outside the SUV.

Once in custody, Hamilton allegedly admitted to drinking several bottles of vodka but gave conflicting accounts of how much she consumed. Police noted that Hamilton attempted to tell officers that all her children were home. Officers said they knew that to be true after contacting her passenger, who was in possession of Hamiltons child.

Police said she failed field sobriety tests, and a breath test recorded her blood alcohol concentration at 0.239 and 0.247, more than twice the legal limit.

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Hamilton was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated with a child passenger, a state jail felony, and duty on striking an unattended vehicle. Hamilton was booked into the Midland County Detention Center, and her bond remains unknown as she is no longer listed to be in custody.

Editors note: Information in this article is based on an arrest affidavit. Hamilton is charged with driving while intoxicated with a child passenger. The passengers charges were not listed in the affidavit. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
The African Energy Chamber, an advocacy group for the continents oil and gas companies, called on African nations to oppose global efforts to cut the production of single-use plastics.

Negotiators in Switzerland are meeting in a bid to reach an agreement to reduce global single-use plastics production levels.

The South Africa-based energy chamber said such an agreement would devastate the petrochemical industry in Africa if implemented. Angola, Gabon, Ghana, and Senegal  where new oil and gas projects are being developed  would be most affected by the mandate, the AEC said.

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It called on their governments to prioritize their energy and industrial needs over external environmental agendas that do not align with Africas developmental priorities. Nigeria, Africas top oil producer, banned the use of single-use plastics in government facilities a year ago.
Maj. Gen. Amir Hatami replaced Abdolrahim Mousavi who was recently appointed the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces after Israel killed the former chief of staff. (photo credit: screenshot via X/ section 27a copyright act)

The officials, in particular, were Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Maj.-Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi and South African National Defense Force Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya.

Officials from South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran met on Tuesday in Tehran in order to strengthen and deepen military cooperation, according to reports from pro-Islamic Republic sources Tasnim News and Tehran Times.

The officials, in particular, were Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Maj.-Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, Iranian military commander, Maj.-Gen. Amir Hatami, and South African National Defense Force Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya.

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Tasnim quoted Hatami as saying that "Iran and South Africa share anti-colonial and anti-arrogance views," and that the two countries "have common goals and have always stood by the oppressed and defenseless people."

Then, the Iranian commander said, "The Islamic Republic and South Africa have always supported each other and oppressed nations. This mission must continue until the restoration of a global order based on justice and human dignity.

Hatami then praised the African nation for condemning the US and Israeli strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities during the 12-day war. He also praised South Africa for bringing a case to the International Court of Justice, where Israel is accused of committing a genocide in the Gaza Strip in its war against Hamas. He then praised them for condemning both the US and Israel for "joint atrocities against Palestinians," with the Times report quoting Hatami describing South Africa's condemnation as courageous and commendable.

General Rudzani Maphwanya, the Chief of the South African National Defence Force, at the Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria, South Africa. February 21, 2024. (credit: REUTERS/Ihsaan Haffejee/File Photo)

The Iranian official then noted the advantages that come from an alliance between his country and South Africa, as it "grants South Africa a special place in Irans outreach to Africa," according to the report.

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Mousavi then added to Hatami's statements, saying that, "The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is recognized as the worlds largest anti-terrorist force and possesses valuable experiences that it can share with South Africa, the Times quoted him as saying.

Meeting with Iranian Defense Minister

Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh had met with Maphwanya, where the former emphasized in their conversation that the 12-day war in June "proved [Israel's] and the United States' disregard for international norms." He called the targeting of the Islamic Republic's nuclear facilities and killing their top commanders "state terrorism."

The report then said that Maphwanya "expressed disgust at Israeli actions and genocide in Gaza and highlighted shared ideals between South Africas late leader Nelson Mandela and Irans Imam Khomeini (RA) in opposing injustice and discrimination."
On Friday, on American soil, President Donald Trump will entertain a brutal war criminal whose critics are poisoned, imprisoned or dropped from high-story windows. As Russian President Vladimir Putin continues reducing Ukraine to rubble, Trump will generate international headlines with no grasp of the underlying history at issue.

The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to the formation of 15 newly independent post-Soviet states, including Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. In the process, Ukraine was left with an outsize stockpile of nuclear weapons, including 1,700 nuclear warheads, 176 intercontinental ballistic missiles and 44 strategic bombers, which put the nation in possession of the third-largest nuclear arsenal in the world.

Three years later, in exchange for Ukraines agreement to disarm and move its weapons into Russia, the U.S., U.K. and Russia agreed, jointly and severally, to protect Ukraine and to secure its borders. The Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances was consistent with Americas global efforts to control nuclear proliferation through diplomatic, legal and operational channels. In return for Ukraines cooperation in becoming a non-nuclear state and joining the Nuclear Non-Proliferation pact, the three countries gave Ukraine security assurances.

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To its peril, Ukraine kept up its end of the deal  but Russia did not.

Because we effectively disarmed Ukraine three decades ago, the U.S. has a continuing obligation to help defend it against Russian aggression. But more crucially, American military aid is prophylactic. Before Trump, the U.S. government upheld democratic values and international order, including respect for sovereignty and existing borders, as a matter of self-preservation. Last year the Department of Defense described Ukraines fate as a battle between freedom and tyranny, and a defense of the rules-based international order. American officials shared the E.U.s belief that supporting Ukraine advanced global stability, and U.S. national security, by strengthening NATO, and perhaps most importantly, by deterring future Russian aggression.

Enter Donald Trump, who promised to end the Russian-Ukraine war on day one of his second term, a promise he now calls sarcasm. Rejecting NATOs interests, and dismissing military alliances that have kept America safe since World War II, the president has instead consistently advanced Putins interests. Since Trump returned to the White House in January, Russia has more than doubled the number of drones and missiles fired at Ukraine; recorded aerial attacks from Moscow have now reached their highest levels since the invasion began in February 2022.

Trump has paved Putins way on several fronts. In the wake of Russias invasion, he publicly praised and failed to condemn Putins brutality in Ukraine, calling the Russian president a genius and savvy for his attacks. Since then, Trump has publicly blamed Ukraine for Russias invasion, bizarrely stating in February that Ukraine should have never started the war. Echoing Putins propaganda campaign, Trump has labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a dictator without elections. Trump has repeatedly criticized the amount of military aid provided to Ukraine. Following the public humiliation of Zelenskyy in the Oval Office in February, when Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance insulted the Ukrainian president in a made-for-Fox-News-and-Putin televised takedown, Trump directed his administration to halt military aid.

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Theres little doubt that Trump has nursed deep, personal animus toward Zelenskyy ever since the American president was caught in 2019 trying to condition military aid on an investigation into then-former Vice President Joe Bidens son Hunter, which Zelenskyy never did. Theres also little doubt that Trump is openly protecting Putins interests. The question is: Why?

Want more sharp takes on politics? Sign up for our free newsletter, Standing Room Only, written by Amanda Marcotte, now also a weekly show on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

There has long been speculation, but no hard evidence, that Putin possesses kompromat or career-ending evidence about Trump. Perhaps Putin is holding proof of steps he took to assure Trumps electoral wins, and is threatening to go public if Trump crosses him. Perhaps Trump really is a Russian asset, as some have speculated. (Regardless of why, hes acting exactly like a Russian asset would, observed Edward Lucas, a nonresident fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis, in a Foreign Policy essay published in March.) Or perhaps Trump is neck-deep in Russian money laundering schemes, including the financing of Trump Tower, going back to the 1990s.

The only thing thats certain at this point is that the presidents on-again, off-again efforts to look like hes pressuring Putin somehow never materialize. Last week, Trump declared that peace between Russia and Ukraine would involve some swapping of territories, which parrots Russias demands for territorial concessions from Ukraine. He then invited Putin to a personal Ukraine summit in Alaska, as if carving up nations after a meal were a game of Monopoly.

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By inviting Putin to meet on American soil, Trump is conferring legitimacy on a mass murderer who is credibly accused of war crimes by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Putin has been isolated since 2023, when the ICC issued arrest warrants for him and several advisors for crimes against humanity. The Russian president has since been unable to travel outside his country, because many of the ICCs 125 member states have agreed to arrest and detain him if he sets foot on their territories.

The crimes for which the ICC issued the warrants include well-documented abductions of over 19,000 Ukrainian children aged four months to 17 years. The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab is tracking Russias systematic campaign to kidnap Ukrainian children and move them to Russia, where they are issued new identities and advertised for adoption after they undergo re-education to erase their emotional connection to their families, language and heritage. As Ukrainian parents wail, Putin has set up an online catalog of Ukrainian children, a photo database searchable by personal characteristics such as size and hair color.

The Alaska summit will be Putins first international trip since the warrants. European leaders have questioned the invitation, while Russians are crowing that it is a national coup, since Trumps invitation came without any concessions from Putin. A Kings College professor of Russian history declared the symbolism of Alaska as the summits backdrop as horrendous  as though designed to demonstrate that borders can change, land can be bought and sold.

No one knows for sure what the outcome will be. According to a Wednesday exclusive report by The Times, Trump and Putin are planning to propose a West Bank-style occupation of Ukraine. Whatever happens, its a safe bet that Trump will issue platitudes that sound tough on Russia while delivering Putins ultimate goal: Cementing his territorial gains in Ukraine, thereby rewarding Russia for its aggression. Zelenskyy will reject the plan, Trump will demand the Nobel Peace Prize and pundits will continue to wonder if Putins get-out-of-jail-free card is a product of blackmail.

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This has been updated to include breaking news from The Times that the U.S. and Russia are planning to propose a "West Bank-style occupation" of Ukraine.

The post Ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, dont forget what we owe Ukraine appeared first on Salon.com.
Doctors and other medical professionals who lean on "routine assistance" from artificial intelligence (AI) to carry out colonoscopies are at risk of losing the life-saving skills they have developed over years of on-the-job training.

A study taking in over 1,400 colonoscopies at four Polish hospitals found a 20% decrease in the ability of "experienced health professionals" to detect precancerous colon growths following the introduction of AI to the process.

"Continuous exposure to AI in colonoscopy" might reduce the effectiveness of "standard, non-AI assisted colonoscopy," the researchers warned.

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"Our results are concerning given the adoption of AI in medicine is rapidly spreading," says Marcin Romanczyk of the Academy of Silesia.

"These findings temper the current enthusiasm for rapid adoption of AI-based technologies... and highlight the importance of carefully considering possible unintended clinical consequences," says Omer Ahmad of University College London, who was not involved in the study.

Featured in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, a medical journal, the paper is the first "to suggest the implementation of AI could lead to a reduction in the ability of medical professionals and impact health outcomes which are important to patients," according to the publisher.

The findings follow the publication of "several studies" that have suggested AI could help doctors identify cancers, according to The Lancet.

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"We urgently need more research into the impact of AI on health professionals skills across different medical fields," says Romanczyk.

In their paper, Romanczyk and colleagues called for more "behavioural research" to look into "the currently under-investigated mechanisms of how AI affects physician capability."
US cuts to foreign aid have weakened anti-poaching efforts in Africa, with Mexican cartels and Chinese triads ramping up their presence in the illegal trade.

Around $23 billion in illegal wildlife  much of it used for traditional medicine in East Asia  is traded each year, with many governments and conservation agencies formerly relying on USAID to fund their anti-trafficking efforts.

However the sudden shuttering of the aid agency earlier this year has led to a free-for-all, with international crime groups piling into the trade.

The traffickers are loving it, a conservationist told the Financial Times. With fewer restrictions, they think: No one will catch us, so lets go for it.
AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. (WJBF)  An Aiken man has been arrested and charged after authorities say he was allegedly operating a chop shop.

According to authorities, the Richmond County Sheriffs Office provided information to the Aiken County Sheriffs Office on a stolen vehicle from their jurisdiction to a location on the 900 block of Dougherty Road in Aiken on August 11th.

ALSO ON WJBF: Woman arrested following multi-county police chase

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Deputies say once they arrived, it led to the discovery of a chop shop, and investigators dismantled it recovering multiple high end stolen Dodge Chargers and other component car parts from jurisdictions throughout the CSRA.

According to investigators, William Hurt, 28, of Aiken, was arrested and charged with operating a chop shop, and authorities say that more charges are expected on Hurt in this case as it remains under investigation.

The Aiken County Sheriffs Office was assisted in this case by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the Richmond County Sheriffs Office.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
In May, the Department of the Air Force announced that transgender airmen with 15 to 18 years of service could apply for early retirement under exceptions in the Temporary Early Retirement Authority (or TERA) policy. This month, however, the Air Force backtracked, denying early retirement to airmen who already had their retirement agreements approved and were making plans for a life after military service. The Air Force said that they had been prematurely approved, and those retirement orders were reversed.

The sudden reversal has upended the lives of affected airmen. Now, they have only days to decide whether to voluntarily separate from the military or go through the involuntary separation process, both options that lack retirement benefits.

My initial reaction was a sense of loss and betrayal, Master Sgt. Logan Ireland told Task & Purpose. An airman with 15 years of service, he said that being about to go in for an early retirement at least gave him a sense of closure.

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Ireland, a senior non-commissioned officer at the Air Force Office of Investigations, said that he had wanted to serve longer than 20 years. Being forced to end his military career hurt, but the early retirement at least gave him a sense of security for his family.

Tech. Sgt. Alyxandra Anguiano, a weapons course instructor who deals with fighter jet armaments, said that it was very hard to find her military career forcibly ended, and she only started to come to terms with it recently. Retirement, at least, was a way to get benefits earned over years of service.

I would at least be retired, even if it wasnt on my own terms, she said. Then that got ripped away. Its hard, hard doesnt begin to describe it.

They, like at least a dozen others who got their early retirement approved, were suddenly thrown into a state of confusion in the first week of August when the Air Force undid those Temporary Early Retirement Authority (or TERA) approvals.

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A spokesperson for the Department of the Air Force said that service members with 15 to 18 years of honorable service were permitted to apply for an exception to policy, none of the exceptions to policy were approved.

Instead, according to the spokesperson, approximately a dozen service members were prematurely notified that their TERA applications under the gender dysphoria provision had been approved, but higher-level review was required under the DoD gender dysphoria policy for those members.

Usually, a full military retirement package requires two decades of service to earn, but this summer the military began offering early retirement to service members who fell just short. The TERA program allowed for people with 18 to 19 years of service to apply for their retirement as well. The exception put forward in May gave airmen with 15 to 18 years a chance to get their benefits.

The first and second Trump administrations have gone after transgender troops, seeking to bar them from serving. In an order signed in January shortly after taking office, Trump banned people with gender dysphoria from serving or enlisting in the military. Troops and advocates have sued, citing discrimination and arguing that their proven years of service, including in high-ranking positions, counter the administrations assertions. Despite legal challenges attempting to block the administrations ban on transgender troops, the service members now face separation, either voluntary or involuntary. Those who choose to voluntarily separate would leave the military sooner, and with a lump sum payment double that of an involuntary separation payout. A spokesperson for the Air Force said that the implementation guidance for the involuntary separation process is still being worked on and has not been finalized.

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Trans service members who spoke to Task & Purpose throughout the year since the ban was announced have said that the options are not much of a choice, as they would rather stay in their careers in the military.

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News Airman arrested for death that prompted Air Force-wide safety review of Sig M18 By Jeff Schogol News Army infantry training unit reverses bay tossing ban By Jeff Schogol News Soldiers who stopped Fort Stewart gunman recognized as the best among us in the Army By Patty Nieberg

Ireland said that he applied for early retirement under the exception, got it approved on June 6, and he received his retirement orders that same day. Similarly, Anguiano said that she got approval after applying in June, with her retirement set for December. But then on Aug. Ireland found out the orders had been revoked, and Anguiano was told the same that day.

Images of notifications on the Air Forces MyFSS shared by service members show messages from this month informing airmen their application for retirement had been disapproved.

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After higher-level review, your previously approved retirement application has been disapproved, the notice says. Please contact your unit commander for further details. Your retirement request is now closed.

An Aug. 4 memo, first reported on by Reuters, outlined the rejection of early retirement.

After careful consideration of the individual applications, I am disapproving all Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA) exception to policy requests in tabs 1 and 2 [sections of the documents] for members with 15 to 18 years of service, the memo said. It was signed by Brian Scarlett, who per the memo, is performing the duties of the assistant secretary of the Air Force for manpower and reserve affairs.

A screenshot of the memo obtained by Task & Purpose.

The Department of Defense has said this summer that it believes there are roughly 4,200 military service members with gender dysphoria. The number of personnel in the Air Force who fall under that and met the specific early retirement window is unclear, but those affected who spoke to Task & Purpose said they had heard of at least a dozen airmen who had received approvals to retire early but had them denied this month. Several had already been in the process of setting up their new post-military lives, Ireland said, including having already outprocessed from their bases or signing leases for new homes. This is causing undue harm and stress, he added.

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Those who had their early retirement taken away now find themselves facing a Friday deadline to decide between involuntary and voluntary separation. As with other transgender servicemembers Task & Purpose has spoken to this year, the Air Force service members said that the involuntary separation process still remains vague and they have not received concrete details on what would happen should they choose to remain in the military until they are forced out. Anguiano noted that there are a lot of unknowns, and given that the Air Force was willing to backtrack on already approved retirements, theres not a solid guarantee other promises could be kept.

Its mass confusion at this point, Ireland said.
The U.S. military wants to figure out the best way to blow up a Tesla Cybertruck.

Air Force officials are seeking 33 vehicles to use as targets for live missile fire testing in New Mexico, according to documents posted by the U.S. General Services Administration.

Most of the vehicles can be sedans, SUVs or pickups of any brand, but the documents specify the need for two Cybertrucks out of concern that enemies will use that particular model to help protect themselves in battle.

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They have been found not to receive the normal extent of damage expected upon major impact, the Air Force wrote.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has touted the Cybertruck as bulletproof and apocalypse-proof, though an on-stage demonstration during its 2019 unveiling infamously backfired. A Chechen warlord last year released a video of himself driving a machine gun-equipped Cybertruck that he said was later sent to Russian forces in Ukraine.

The Cybertrucks aggressively angular and futuristic design, paired with its unpainted stainless steel exoskeleton, sets it apart from competitors typically using painted steel or aluminum bodies, one of the Air Force documents says. Additionally, its 48V electrical architecture provides superior power and efficiency, a feature that rivals are only beginning to develop. Extensive internet searches and industry outreach ... found no vehicles with features comparable to those of the Cybertruck.

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The trucks dont have to run but need to have functional wheels so they can be towed into place. The body, glass and mirrors must be intact.

Sign up for the weekly Automotive News Mobility Report newsletter for the latest developments at the intersection of transportation and technology.

Information on how much the military expects to pay for the Cybertrucks was redacted. The starting price is about $80,000.

Besides the Teslas, the Air Force said it planned to fire missiles at 18 sedans  six black, six white and six blue or green, all with sunroofs  five pickups, five SUVs and three cab-over commercial vehicles known as Bongo trucks.

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Official air-quality results showed elevated levels of potentially harmful chemicals after a roofing project disrupted the early weeks of the school year at Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary in Phoenix.

The report, released Aug. 12, showed elevated levels for 21 chemicals, but none reached safety limits, the report said.

Most of the highest readings involved coatings  described as sealants, paint and varnish  and they far exceeded recommended levels of exposure. Where the recommended level of exposure is 500 nanograms per liter for indoor air, the Total Volatile Organic Compound level at Kyrene de la Sierra was 14,000 ng/l, the report said.

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However, the report said, "All compounds with published exposure limits were all well below the established exposure limits."

Dominion, an environmental consultant company, conducted the air-quality testing.

Laura Toenjes, Kyrene Elementary School District superintendent, said in a statement, "Kyrene is consulting with the appropriate experts and will continue to share their reports and analysis on our website."

Students and staff have been relocated from the campus until early October.

Preliminary air-quality testing began after parents reported a strong kerosene or tar-like smell coming from a roofing reconstruction that took place over the summer break at Kyrene de la Sierra, 1122 E. Liberty Lane.

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Construction was scheduled to be completed before students returned but was delayed due to weather and material costs, according to Mason Meade, director of facilities for the Kyrene district.

Preliminary ambient indoor air-quality testing conducted Aug. 1 showed elevated levels of total Volatile Organic Compounds by up to 11,000 parts per billion, exceeding the recommended 500 parts per billion tVOC maximum.

Kyrene administrators moved Kyrene de la Sierra students to Kyrene de los Cerritos Leadership Academy and Kyrene Altadena Middle School, which share a campus in Ahwatukee Foothills about 1.5 miles north of Kyrene de la Sierra. Students started classes there Aug. 11 and will attend classes at their temporary campus until early October.

Supplies from Kyrene de la Sierra were moved to empty classrooms at the shared campus, and the district conducted further air-quality testing after parents were concerned the supplies would introduce harmful chemicals to the Kyrene de los Cerritos and Kyrene Altadena classrooms. Testing by Dominion showed tVOCs within these classrooms to be within an acceptable range.

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The Kyrene district also tested for asbestos within the original roof of Kyrene de la Sierra after community concerns and found no traces of the substance, according to a statement.

Coverage of education solutions on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is partially supported by a grant from the Arizona Local News Foundations Arizona Community Collaborative Fund.

More district news: Kyrene School District considering merging dual language schools amid enrollment decline

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Air-quality tests show elevated chemical levels at Ahwatukee school
Allegiant Air will begin flying out of Atlantic City International Airport beginning later this year, becoming the second major air carrier that offers routine flights out of the South Jersey airfield, officials announced Wednesday.

The low-cost airline, which is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, will add four routes to Florida at the airport, said officials from Allegiant and the South Jersey Transportation Authority, the facilitys owner.

The addition complements regular flights to Florida through Spirit Airlines, which has maintained a tenure at the airport amid financial uncertainty.

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Earlier this year, Spirit announced new flights between Atlantic City and Miami, the first beginning Wednesday. Last year, however, it shelved its crew base at the airport during a financial restructuring period.

Allegiants planes will fly from South Jersey to Fort Lauderdale, St. Petersburg, Sanford and Punta Gorda, officials said. The carriers inaugural flight from the airport, located in Egg Harbor Township, will be to Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 11.

Afterward, it will offer twice-per-week flights for the rest of the routes, said Kristen Schilling-Gonzales, Allegiants vice president of planning.

Air fare begins at $39.

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The airline flies to about 125 cities, Schilling-Gonzales said. Its owned by the Allegiant Travel Co. and has been in business for about 25 years.

It was unclear if the partnership requires approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The airline official suggested the chance that Allegiant will expand at Atlantic City if demands presents itself.

Were excited to begin service here, and we look forward to a long, fruitful relationship, Schilling-Gonzales told reports at press conference. Wed love to be able to grow here, so the better these routes do, the more well look to increase frequency...as well as additional destinations in the future.

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Gov. Phil Murphy on Wednesday lauded the announcement, saying the expansion has a chance to benefit the states transportation infrastructure and economic opportunities.

This expansion will create new travel opportunities for New Jerseyans, fueling the future success of transportation reliability across our state, Murphy said in a statement.

Allegiant is open to the SJTAs incentive program, which was formed as an effort to attract and retain airline service, said the authoritys director, Stephen Dougherty. It last ranged between $25,000 and $140,000, The Press of Atlantic City previously reported.

Wednesdays announcement was the second Allegiant made this week for bolstered destinations. The airline on Tuesday announced five non-stop routes to eight cities, several of which are in Florida, Alabama and New York. Those schedules begin in late 2025 and early 2026, Allegiant said.

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A third air carrier, American Airlines, also regularly runs a coach-style bus service from the airfield to Philadelphia International Airport, which has grown in demand since launching.

The addition comes as Spirit Airlines, the airports lone carrier providing flights, suggested substantial doubt about its ability to stay in business following the carriers latest earnings report. The suggested financial troubles come five months after the airline emerged from bankruptcy.

Dougherty said Wednesday he wasnt aware of news from Spirits earnings report influencing the airport-airline partnership.

Were having conversations with airlines all the time, Dougherty said. Thats happening on a daily basis, a weekly basis. Were going to keep talking to airlines, and we hope more and more airlines will continue to show up.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com.
AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  At Mondays school board meeting, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik urged the board to end the evening with a new contract for school resource officers in order to have an agreement before school starts on August 21.

A new contract between the board and the city was not agreed to.

Now, its likely that there wont be officers in Akron high schools and middle schools to start the school year, as the next school board meeting doesnt come until after the school year has started.

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Extremely disappointing: Kevin Stefanski addresses Myles Garretts speeding ticket

The president of the Fraternal Order Police Lodge 7 in Akron, Sgt. Brian Lucey, told FOX 8 hes frustrated with the process.

Schools across the state of Ohio, across the country are wanting more police officers involved in the building, in the extracurricular activities. Here in Akron, in my opinion, the school board is choosing to let their personal (opinions) towards police officers affect the safety and security of the students and the staff that go to those buildings every day, Lucey said.

The sergeant also said that the union has not been involved in contract talks and that it should be involved to protect member rights per their collective bargaining agreement.

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At Mondays board meeting, Rev. Gregory Harrison spoke up following the mayors comments.

He said theyd like to reach an agreement that is fair to all parties.

We look forward to the SROs returning to APS as we would welcome them here and we welcome the partnership with the city of Akron, the board member said.

The situation in Akron is almost a complete opposite from whats happening to the north in Mentor.

Mentor Public Schools had a contract approved by its board that will phase officers in to add an SRO at each of its middle schools and elementary schools, in addition to the officer already at the high school.

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Ball of swirling light over NE Ohio: What was it

That process will begin shortly after school starts next Monday with two middle schools and two elementary schools getting qualified officers this year, then two the next year and two more the year after that.

We just see that value of having a uniformed officer in each of our buildings, Superintendent Craig Heath said. Its just a great partnership when the city and the school district can come together and create something thats going to be beneficial for the students, the staff and the entire school community.

Heath said the added security from having SROs is very beneficial. It also gives students another adult in the building they can build relationships and trust with so they have someone to go to if there is an issue they need to address.

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HOMEWOOD, Ala. (WIAT)  An Alabama priest has been put on on leave after a woman alleged that he began a sexual relationship with her starting when she was 17 years old in 2009.

On Wednesday, Bishop Steven Raica sent a letter to Diocese of Birmingham on why Father Bob Sullivan of Our Lady of Sorrow in Homewood took a leave from his role at the church on Aug. 4. In the letter, which CBS 42 recently obtained, Sullivan announced the personal leave to his congregation earlier this month.

The Guardian reported Wednesday morning about allegations Heather Jones brought against Sullivan. Jones, 33, claimed Sullivan gave her financial support in exchange for a private companionship that included sex. Jones claimed their relationship started when she was 17 years old.

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Raica stated in his letter that it is the dioceses practice to not provided a reason for why a clergy member took a personal leave absence. Raica wrote, however, he first sent a notice of Sullivans personal leave to priests because of Sullivans role as a vicar general.

Because the Guardian published allegations included in a complaint to the Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama received from Jones in late July, the diocese made an exception to its policy, according to Raica on Wednesday. Raica stated the diocesan victim assistance coordinator also received the report of the allegations.

Below is what Raica wrote in his letter regarding the allegations:

The allegation was immediately reported to the Alabama Department of Human Resources, since it involves an allegation of a relationship that began when the woman reporting the allegation may have been under the age of 18.

While the Alabama Department of Human Resources determined that the allegations did not match the requirements for opening an investigation, a diocesan investigation was initiated, again, according to Church law and our diocesan policies and guidelines.

Our diocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator has continued to be in contact with the woman who brought forth the allegations and has provided appropriate support.

The allegation also was presented to our Diocesan Review Board, which is comprised of attorneys, professionals in psychology and child welfare, and lay members of the community. The Board provides advice and counsel to me when such allegations are presented and did so in this case.

Additionally, Church law states that any allegation that may involve a relationship between a person under the age of 18 and a member of the clergy must be reported to the Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican. That report is being developed now for submission to the Dicastery for its review and consideration.

Father Sullivan was granted a leave of absence and is currently removed from all priestly service pending the outcome of the investigation.

We do not know the timeframe for completion of the work of the Dicastery in Rome nor of that which will be further required within our diocese.

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Again, it was not my intention to disclose this information prior to full resolution of the investigation  the initial work of any investigation does not lend itself to a definitive determination, and anyone accused in the Church possesses a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, equivalent to the right granted in civil law, Raica wrote.

Jones told The Guardian she wanted to come forward because of Sullivan, 61, is in contact with families and children as their pastor. Jones said she was concerned that others may be vulnerable to the same type of manipulation and exploitation she experienced. She claimed Sullivans behavior with her was not in alignment with the values he teaches.

The statement Jones sent to the diocese, according to the Guardian, stated she grew up in foster care and lacked consistent adult support, causing her to struggle to maintain employment or pursue a formal education. She worked as a dancer at an adult establishment in the Birmingham area.

Jones stated Sullivan met her at that establishment when was 17, offering to change her life if she called him. Thats when Sullivan proposed the relationship, according to the Guardian. Jones claimed Sullivan took her shopping, dining, drinking and to hotel rooms in in at least six Alabama cities to engage in sex over several years.

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Sullivan, Jones stated, presented himself as a doctor. Jones claimed she later learned he is a priest but that his brother is a doctor. Jones claimed Sullivan paid for her to attend a rehabilitation program after experiencing depression, emotional instability and addiction. Sullivan and an attorney representing him had her sign a non-disclosure agreement for $273,000, according to Jones.

Bank records the Guardian obtained showed she received two wire transfers of $136,500 from an account with the attorneys law office name. Additionally, from July 18, 2024, to March 26, a Venmo account under Sullivans name showed he paid Jones nearly $120,000, according to records Jones provided the Guardian. Jones said it is not clear where the money Sullivan gave her was coming from.

Jones claimed she proposed to revise the NDA and requested an additional $100,000. She stated the agreement heavily favored his interests and offered no meaningful protection, healing or justice for her experiences with Sullivan, who she described as exploitative and predatory. Jones claimed Sullivan and his attorney ignored the proposal.

Jones told the diocese she could show phone records and pictures that would corroborate her version of events, according to the Guardian. Jones said she started law school and defied the NDA because she expressed confidence it would not hold up in court.

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This story was written by Terry Schrimscher of the Trussville Tribune.

TRUSSVILLE (TRIBUNE)  Few things are as ubiquitous in American society as the cell phone. However, smart phones wont be a common sight in Alabama classrooms this year after Governor Kay Ivey signed the FOCUS Act in May.

The FOCUS Act, officially known as the Freeing Our Classrooms of Unnecessary Screens for Safety Act, limits the use of digital devices during school hours.

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Smart phones have beneficial roles when used in proper settings. However, these often-disruptive devices have no place in our classrooms during the school day except for educational purposes or during an emergency, said Ivey when she signed the bill. The FOCUS Act will enable students to focus on learning while in school rather than on their phones.

Some educators caution that the new law will require a lot of grace early on as students who have relied on digital devices their whole lives adjust. Adrienne Duke-Marks, an Associate Professor at Auburn University, commented in a release about the addictive nature of the modern digital lifestyle.

People are going to find out how addicted they really are to their phones and smart watches, Duke-Marks said. We dont often think of ourselves as having addictions to our phones or devices. However, all you have to do is think back to a time you accidentally left your phone at home or had to go without it for a few days. That probably led to feelings of panic, stress and disconnectedness. She added she hoped schools would show a bit of grace early on before proceeding to disciplinary actions.

Area schools are already busy implementing the new policy as most students in the Tribune coverage area returned to school in early August. Trussville Schools Superintendent Dr. Patrick Martin addressed the issue in his July update from the Board of Education indicating there will be disciplinary actions taken for students who choose to disobey the new rule.

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Students have to keep their cell phone off of their person according to this legislation. So, with that said, cell phones have to remain in in lockers, Martin said. That means during passing periods, during class time, even during lunch time, students will not be able to have cell phones, Apple i-watches, or your Airpods out during the day he said.

There are exceptions to the rule. Students who need a digital device for special education classes or with specific health plans may use their devices for specific reasons.

Speaking to The Tribune, Martin added students appear to be adjusting quickly to the new rules.

To start the school year off, our students have done a very nice job of being in compliance with the FOCUS Act. I have talked with several staff at the high school and I think the fact that this is an initiative by the Governor and all schools across the state are mandated to be device free certainly helps, Martin said. We have great kids and families in Trussville, so the fact that this really has not been an issue is not surprising.

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Ronnie Dixon, City Manager for Clay and Jefferson County Board of Education President, echoed the idea that students are adjusting well and sees the FOCUS Act as a positive change for schools in Alabama.

So far there have been few if any problems. The administrators and teachers have all bought in and so far its been a smooth transition, Dixon said. It really helps that the legislature made it statewide law so that the district is not being blamed for something other districts are not doing, he added.

The biggest impact Ive seen is that during lunch and study hall kids are interacting with each other, Dixon said. Talking, laughing, joking are all making a comeback. I think the kids are realizing they were spending too much time with their device.

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LONDON -- Could President Donald Trump's summit this Friday in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin bring a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine?

Right now, most observers have far more doubts than hopes.

What's clear is the meeting could be a golden opportunity for Putin to influence Trump's vision for how to end the war.

AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: This combination of file photographs shows Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sept. 21, 2022, and U.S. then-President-elect Donald Trump on Dec. 7, 2024.

Russian media is crowing about the choice of location for the summit -- cheering the idea that Trump and Putin will decide the fate of the war alone and that Alaska's distance from Europe underlines how European countries and Ukraine are being sidelined. Some Russian media commentators also note how Alaska was once Russian territory, sold by Tsar Alexander II to the United States for a pittance in 1867

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Many observers, particularly Russian, are dismissing the meeting as a sign Trump has allowed Putin to once again deceive him. They note that Trump threatened Russia with tougher sanctions, but instead Putin now has a summit where he can once more pretend to want peace. They view this as Putin's latest -- and potentially very successful -- gambit to defuse Trump's frustration with him and head off his threat to impose tougher sanctions on Russia.

MORE: Trump, Vance to meet virtually with Zelenskyy ahead of Putin summit

Some Russian analysts have suggested the surprise summit, in fact, is a graceful way for both Putin and Trump to sidestep the awkward issue of Trump's own deadline last week to impose the new sanctions if Russia didn't end the war. Trump, clearly reluctant to do so and aware they might not work, has been able to put them off.

"For Trump, it's an opportunity to save face in a situation when he actually has few ways of pressuring Moscow," Farida Rustamova and Margarita Lituova, Russian journalists who closely cover the Kremlin, wrote on their Substack. "For Putin, a personal meeting would help him to maintain a relationship with Trump, who is clearly inclined to sympathize with the Russian position."

Heinz-peter Bader/AP - PHOTO: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a press conference during his visit to Vienna, Austria, June 16, 2025.

But there are still some glimmers that perhaps the meeting could move a ceasefire closer.

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday said the U.S. has received a signal from Russia that it may be "ready to end the war, or at least to make a first step towards a ceasefire."

"This was the first such signal from them," Zelenskyy told reporters.

There are indications that the gap between Russia and Ukraine's positions has at least slightly narrowed.

MORE: Ukraine ramps up drone attacks on Russia ahead of Trump-Putin Alaska summit

The Wall Street Journal and others have reported Putin is now demanding Ukraine hand over the remainder of unoccupied eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions, in exchange for halting his offensive on two other southeastern regions, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Russia could also hand back the small slivers of land it occupies in Ukraine's Sumy and Kherson regions. Previously, Putin had insisted on taking Kherson and Zaporizhzhia as well.

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But those demands would still be extreme -- Ukraine would be giving up a huge swath of territory, home to hundreds of thousands of people and important defensive strongholds, in exchange for almost nothing. It would also make it far easier for Russia to relaunch its invasion later.

Zelenskyy has already ruled out handing over unoccupied Donbas, noting Ukraine's constitution in any case forbids it. He again on Tuesday also made clear there could be no territorial exchanges without "security guarantees" for Ukraine. European countries have fully backed him.

Jorge Silva/Reuters - PHOTO: In this file photo, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk during the family photo session at the APEC Summit in Danang, Vietnam Nov. 11, 2017.

But Trump has indicated he is unwilling to provide any meaningful security guarantees and even if he did, it's very unlikely Putin would accept that.

It is hard to see how that gap can be bridged. But for the first time, both sides are speaking more about freezing the lines of contact, something that is far more likely to be acceptable.

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The summit will be a test to see if something has shifted in the Kremlin and if Putin now truly wants a ceasefire.

MORE: Trump describes upcoming summit with Russia's Putin as 'feel-out meeting'

Andrii Zahorodniuk, a former Ukrainian defense minister, told ABC News he believes Putin will almost certainly propose demands he knows are unacceptable so that Ukraine will alienate Trump by rejecting them. Trump could block military aid to Ukraine if it does not accept.

Russian media has already been laying the ground to blame Europe and Ukraine if the summit fails to produce peace. Trump himself on Monday expressed irritation with Zelenskyy for bringing up the constitutional block on handing over land.

Putin "plays with the desire of the U.S. administration to bring peace to Ukraine," Zahorodniuk said. "Putin wants to get the U.S. on their side to get all Donbas, something they cannot achieve without losing another few hundred thousand people and a year of time."
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  An Albany man is headed to prison after sexually abusing a toddler and sharing videos of the abuse on the internet.

Kevin Walter Taylor, 35, will serve 42 years in federal prison followed by a life term of supervised release for the abuse that was discovered online in 2023.

Blazers sold to owner of Carolina Hurricanes: Reports

Court documents show that special agents found material online showing Taylors child sex abuse in what appeared to be his own home on Sept. 8, 2023. Hours later, investigators served a search warrant at the residence, where they found Taylor and the child.

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According to police, officers arrested Taylor and rescued the toddler victim, who was still wearing the clothes depicted in the abuse material produced and distributed by Taylor just hours earlier.

Taylors cell phone showed evidence of the child abuse committed earlier that day as well as abuse that had taken place several days prior.

Agents also discovered chats in which Taylor openly discussed his abuse of the toddler victim and shared the videos he made, police said.

Unsettling: Mystery of body parts found in Tualatin River deepens

On Dec. 10, 2024, Taylor pleaded guilty to sexually exploiting a child, distributing child pornography, as well as possessing child pornography.

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The sexual abuse of this young child is reprehensible and is deserving of every month of the sentence that has been imposed by the court, said District of Oregon Attorney Scott E. Bradford.

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Modern-day refrigeration fixes usually take the form of Dollar Tree organization hacks or in-fridge thermometers that prevent food waste, but what if this common appliance was also a known lethal threat? The 1920s were the early days of refrigeration, one of the most important inventions in food and drink, but early versions of these appliances compressed toxic and flammable gases to cool the air inside. Refrigerator gas leaks, fires, and even explosions were major problems that German scientist Albert Einstein and his Hungarian colleague, Leo Szilard, sought to solve with their own invention.

In 1926, they created a unique pump system meant to replace the faulty valves responsible for refrigerators' poisonous gas leaks. Instead of relying on moving parts that were prone to malfunction, Einstein and Szilard's pump compressed refrigerant gases using an electromagnetic field. Additionally, it didn't require electricity to function  only a heat source. The pair had a U.S. patent pending by 1927.

The following decade, however, was shaped by significant turmoil. Economic disaster rocked the world, and the rise of fascism threatened the Jewish inventors' very lives. But it wasn't just world-moving forces of history that derailed the so-called Einstein fridge. Market forces were also at play: Someone else invented something better.

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Read more: 14 Condiments That Don't Need To Be Refrigerated

Depression, Prejudice, And Competition

Unemployment protest in 1930s Germany - Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Albert Einstein and Leo Szilard successfully sold their pending patent to the Swedish company Electrolux in 1927, but two years later the Great Depression crushed economies all over the world. With businesses, governments, and consumers all feeling the pressure, the pair's pump design didn't see much enthusiasm.

The early 1930s were especially hard on the inventors' home country of Germany, which already faced significant economic difficulty throughout the 1920s. The Great Depression helped accelerate the rise of the Nazis who, driven by a violent hatred of Judaism, scapegoated Jewish people for the country's woes. Rising antisemitic violence and discrimination made Germany unsafe for men like Einstein and Szilard, both of whom fled continental Europe by 1933.

Technology, however, had already advanced beyond their pump design. The American company General Motors invested in Thomas Midgely, who in 1928 invented Freon, a brand name for several chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which were a safer alternative to poisonous and explosive gases. They were also more efficient than the electromagnetic pump. By the time Einstein moved to America in 1933 and Szilard followed five years later, Freon was already making refrigerators a standard kitchen appliance as the U.S. economy slowly recovered.

What Happened To The Einstein Refrigerator?

Albert Einstein writing equation on chalkboard - Bettmann/Getty Images

Their refrigeration dreams dashed, Albert Einstein and Leo Szilard moved on to other projects, including the frontiers of nuclear energy. This resulted in their 1939 letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, warning him that Nazi Germany was likely to invent a nuclear weapon. Roosevelt took action, and what historians know as the Einstein-Szilard letter led to the Manhattan Project, the atomic bombing of Japan, and the post-war age of nuclear weapons.

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In the world of refrigeration, the popular Freon formula known as R22 eventually became known as a major culprit of ozone layer depletion. Its gradual phase-out in favor of less harmful gases, including some that still go by the brand name Freon, is nearly complete.

The decline of the original Freon, however, did not mean the rise of the Einstein fridge. Its electricity-free design briefly showed promise for delivering refrigeration to areas without reliable power, but this revival has not yet come to fruition. The Einstein refrigerator mostly remains a historical footnote, like the lifelong digestive issues that briefly made Einstein a vegetarian before his death.

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Six men who were living in DeLand, Florida have been sentenced for illegally straw purchasing and then trafficking 33 semi-automatic firearms that they sold to a violent Mexican drug cartel, the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion, known as CJNG, which is located in Zitacuaro, Michoacan, Mexico.

According to U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida Gregory W. Kehoe, the ATF began investigating the six men in May 2023. They learned that the group was led by Angel Valazquez Delgado.

"The conspirators purchased high-caliber firearms in the United States for resale to Mexican drug cartels. These cartels were and are criminal organizations engaged in the trafficking of controlled substances into the United States," a press release states.

One batch of illegally trafficked weapons included 11 Barrett .50 caliber rifles and 16 semi-automatic FN M249S rifles, which the U.S. Attorney's office claimed, "are easily converted into a machinegun."

According to the press release, one of the Barretts was recovered after a gunfight that occurred March 22, 2023, between the cartel and Mexican State Police and Mexican military personnel, which claimed two lives. 
Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson are expected this week to tout a new program that involves buying and distributing fresh food products to help people who are food insecure.

Albritton said Monday during a Hardee County legislative delegation meeting that he and Simpson will hold a news conference Thursday about the Farmers Feeding Florida program.

Albritton said lawmakers this year approved $38 million for the program, which is administered by the Simpson-led Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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As an example, Albritton said the program has bought truckloads of milk from dairy farms. He said farmers, at least in some cases, would otherwise dump milk on the ground.

As I have traveled around the state, and it doesnt matter if the folks that Im talking to are Republicans, if theyre Democrats, NPAs (no-party affiliation voters), independents, farmers, architects, chamber of commerce, it doesnt matter. I have never seen any topic that generates the amount of passion and the amount of empathy and the amount of want-to-help like solving food insecurity in Florida, especially for children, Albritton said.,

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Vibrio infections are on the rise in some coastal states, such as Florida and Louisiana. Its a bacteria that primarily affects the gastrointestinal system, but can also affect the skin.

Vibrio is found in infected raw oysters, clams, scallops, shrimp, crab, lobster, and other shellfish. Restaurants have been advised not to serve any seafood raw for the time being. Monday, the City of Albuquerque sent out a notice to all 4,000 restaurants and grocery stores recommending they cook all their shellfish before serving it.

We typically dont see it very often because were landlocked, City of Albuquerque Consumer Health Division Manager Francelli Lugo said. However, we do receive some of that fresh seafood from other areas, and they are right now seeing a lot of Vibrio in their waters.

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Vibrio is commonly found in warm seawaters in the Gulf Coast between May and October. People can contract it by eating infected raw shellfish. Coastal states such as Florida and Louisiana are seeing a jump in cases this year compared to the last couple of years.

Since New Mexico gets a lot of seafood from these areas, in response, the city sent out a warning to restaurants and grocers on Monday, encouraging them to cook all their seafood and discard any dead shellfish.

The bacteria causes GI illness, Lugo said. So gastrointestinal issues are most common when you consume the bacteria.

The CDC sees cases nationwide from May to October, and cases die down as the water cools down.

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In 2022, there were six cases in New Mexico. This year, the state has not had any yet, but there are unusually high numbers in the southeast, prompting local public health to prepare.

The bacteria can also be contracted through open wounds by swimming in infected waters, which has been noted in coastal states. It causes severe blistering and can enter the bloodstream.

Health officials encourage people not to go in the water if theyre planning a visit to one of these coastal states before the end of the summer.

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  An Albuquerque man will be held in detention on child abuse charges. Police arrested Edward Davila after his three-year-old child was found wandering on a busy eastside street while temperatures had reached over 100 degrees.

New Mexico man charged with 10th DWI following high-speed chase

According to the criminal complaint, the toddler was found in a neighborhood near Pennsylvania St. and Menaul Blvd. According to Davilas legal team, he had left his eight-year-old daughter to watch after his three and 5-year-old at home while he was out of the house. Thats when the three-year-old wandered off.

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Despite his lack of criminal history, Judge Solimon ruled that Davila posed a risk to his five children if he was released from pre-trial custody.

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  An Albuquerque mother facing charges for her one-year-old overdosing on fentanyl will remain in custody until trial. Police said 40-year-old Isha Garcia was smoking meth and fentanyl with friends at the Days Inn on Candelaria Rd. last week.

New Mexico man charged with 10th DWI following high-speed chase

The child and a twin sibling were in a playpen when the child ingested a pill. A housekeeper used Narcan to revive the child, and the child survived. In court on Tuesday, prosecutors said Garcia is not likely to comply with any conditions of release based on her criminal history.

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Now we are all trying to take stock of how best to keep two kids safe when the defendant couldnt do that for them, said prosecutor Daniel Fogg.

Vanessa Chavez, another mother facing charges for the death of her daughter, was supposed to have her detention hearing this morning, but that was reset for two weeks to give the defense more time to prepare.

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Aug. 13 (UPI) -- A new Gallup Poll shows the use of alcohol among American adults is at its lowest point in a nearly 90-year downward trend.

The results of Washington, D.C.-based Gallup's new survey released Wednesday suggest the self-reported drinking habits of many Americans is down to a new record low of 54% after "consecutive declines" since 1939 when the firm began tracking such behavior.

The results of Gallup's annual Consumption Habits survey from July 7-21 supported data indicating that drinkers reported drinking less, and 53% of respondents say they believe that even a few drinks is bad for a person.

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Gallup experts are suggesting that, for the first time, it's now the majority view of the population that even moderate alcohol drinking is bad for one's health.

Even John Gramlich, an associate research director at the nonpartisan Washington think tank Pew Research Center, called it "fascinating new data" in a social media post early Wednesday morning.

From 2023-2025, there was a 5% drop to 56% among people age 55 and older. File Photo (2021) by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

The downward trend of drinking among young American adults has only accelerated from 59% in 2023 to 50% in the latest Gallup surveys.

Previous Gallup results from 1997 to 2023 revealed at least 60% of Americans reported being casual alcohol drinkers. That number fluctuated for a few years before landing at its current 54% in the latest survey results.

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Gallup's historic data highlighted a 58% use of alcohol among Americans in its initial 1939 poll only 10 years after the economically devastating October 1929 stock market crash, but a one-time low in 1958 of 55%.

Gallup said the belief that drinking is detrimental is now gaining traction with older adults, too.

From 2023-2025, there was a 5% drop to 56% among people age 55 and older.

The World Health Organization noted earlier last month that a separate 2022 Gallup Poll found strong public support among respondents for higher taxes on alcohol, tobacco and "sugary drinks."

"Why? Because these products can harm your health & smart taxes help reduce consumption & fund better healthcare," the WHO said on social media.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  An alleged drunk driver drove the wrong way on an interstate after leaving the Las Vegas Strip and crashed into another driver who was heading to work, according to court records.

A grand jury indicted Atruz Manning for two felony charges of driving under the influence resulting in substantial bodily harm and reckless driving resulting in substantial bodily harm on Aug. 7.

The head-on collision occurred on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 around 7 a.m., according to records.

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Manning told Nevada Highway Patrol he had left Drais nightclub, according to grand jury transcripts. Troopers noted Manning had vomit on his clothes and inside his gray Dodge Challenger, he appeared to have trouble standing and bloodshot eyes, and smelled like alcohol.

Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD) Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD) Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD)

His blood alcohol content was .138 approximately two hours after the crash, police said. Nevadas legal limit is .08.

Trooper Chelo Estrada testified Mannings car had California license plates, he said he had relocated to Las Vegas, and he did not have insurance.

Emergency responders had to remove the alleged victim from her vehicle, according to police.

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Trooper Nicholas Lazoff described her position when he arrived as laid out almost perpendicular with her head by the passenger side door and her feet towards the drivers side door, kind of laid out across the center console of the vehicle.

She was taken to the University Medical Center in critical condition.

Lazoff said Manning told him that he had fallen asleep and couldnt remember passing out.

The alleged victim was heading to her veterinary assistant job in her red Kia sedan, a family member testified. At the time of the grand jury testimony on Aug. 6, the family member said the alleged victim had nine surgeries, was hospitalized for approximately a month due to critical injuries, and had to return to the hospital for an emergency surgery.

Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD) Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD) Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD) Atruz Manning faces charges after head-on collision on Interstate 11 northbound south of Charleston Boulevard on June 28 (LVMPD)

The family member recalled first seeing the woman in the intensive care unit after the crash while she was on a ventilator.

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They had her arm casted, and they had her foot wrapped up, and they had bandages on her knee, and they had traction to pull her leg. They said her leg had been pulled out of the socket, so they had traction and then the C-collar, she testified. They said she broke her back.

Police noted in an arrest report obtained by the 8 News Now Investigators that a records check revealed Mannings car was last insured in July 2021 and he did not provide proof of insurance at the time of the crash, his driver license was revoked until April 3 and he did not reinstate his license, and his car registration was suspended in Nov. 2024.

Manning posted $75,000 bond and was released from jail, according to court records. Conditions include high-level electronic and alcohol monitoring, no driving, and to stay out of trouble. He is scheduled to appear in court for an initial arraignment on Aug. 21.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) An alleged drug trafficker was extradited from Mexico on Friday and is facing four separate charges, including the importation of fentanyl, after fleeing to Mexico in 2018, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office Southern District of California.

Rosa De Arcos, 48, was arraigned in federal court after being extradited, and faces charges that include Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Importation of Methamphetamine and Cocaine, Importation of Fentanyl and Bail Jumping, according to authorities.

According to the report, De Arcos was initially arrested back in May 2017 for concealing over 34 pounds of fentanyl inside her Jeep Wrangler, but was later released on bond.

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Before that arrest, law enforcement had already obtained a wiretap on De Arcos and uncovered communication between her and her co-defendant, Maria Elena Urena Cervantes, allegedly discussing different incidents of drug trafficking in which they had participated, according to public records.

In an incident from January 2017, De Arcos allegedly aided Cervantes in importing cocaine and methamphetamine, which were later seized by law enforcement, according to the report.

Border officers shoot at driver who nearly struck them at Otay Mesa crossing

Cervantes was arrested later that year, but was also released on bond.

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Neither De Arcos nor Cervantes showed up to their status hearing on Nov. 18, 2019, and instead fled to Mexico, according to the report.

Authorities said Cervantes was arrested in Mexico in 2023 and was extradited to the U.S. In July 2024, she pleaded guilty and admitted to drug trafficking offenses with De Arcos. She is scheduled to be sentenced in December.

Two years after the arrest of Cervantes, De Arcos was arrested in Mexico in April and then extradited to the U.S. on Friday, according to the report.

De Arcos is scheduled for a status hearing on Aug. 25.

The importation of fentanyl charge she faces comes with a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison with a $10 million fine.

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Gov. Andy Beshear said more than 1,900 driver's licensing credentials had been revoked by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet because of irregularities. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Liam Niemeyer)

Kentuckys Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear and Republican Attorney General Russell Coleman say investigators have been looking into a whistleblowers allegations that immigrants paid temporary contract workers to illegally obtain state drivers licenses.

Louisville TV station WDRB reported Monday a former clerk at a Kentucky drivers licensing office said co-workers sold, for $200 each, state drivers licenses to immigrants who couldnt legally obtain them because they are in the country without permission. The whistleblower, Melissa Moorman, worked at Louisvilles Nia licensing office through the staffing agency Quantam Solutions.

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Moorman told the TV station she was fired when she reported the scheme to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). She filed a lawsuit against the cabinet and Quantam Solutions in April.

Beshear in a Wednesday press conference told reporters the cabinet regularly reviews drivers licensing credential applications and had revoked 1,985 credentials for irregularities.

KYTC immediately contacted law enforcement who are engaged in a criminal investigation, and it includes multiple offices that are both state and federal, Beshear said. The revoked credentials, if used, would not work at an airport, would be flagged if pulled over at a traffic stop. We are committed to getting all of the facts and holding anybody who violated the law accountable.

Beshear said all employees involved had been hired through a temp agency and have been terminated. When asked if Moorman was fired by the staffing agency Quantam Solutions or the cabinet after reporting the scheme, Beshear said he didnt have that information and had not read the whistleblower lawsuit complaint. But he also said some statements in the complaint were not factual.

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Coleman, the Republican attorney general, at a roundtable with law enforcement in Shepherdsville on Wednesday said his office had been collaborating with Kentucky State Police and federal officials for some time now on that investigation.

The conduct as shared by the whistleblower, has been very concerning that the media has reported on in the last few days, Coleman said. Its a several months-long investigation. Its been ongoing since long before the media reports of the last couple of days. So that is a very ongoing, very robust investigation at present.

Attorney General Russell Coleman speaks during the Fancy Farm Picnic, Aug 2, 2025. (Austin Anthony for the Kentucky Lantern)

The report of the whistleblower lawsuit has sparked calls from Republicans in the state legislature and Republican Auditor Allison Ball for investigations into the whistleblowers allegations.

If these reports are accurate, this is fundamentally wrong on every level. Its not just a breakdown in oversight but a betrayal of public trust, said Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, in a statement on the allegations. The Kentucky General Assembly will raise concerns and take every action within our authority to correct this wrong and ensure it never happens again.

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Higdon, the chair of the Kentucky Senate Transportation Committee, in his statement referenced previous frustrations Kentuckians have had at regional drivers licensing offices, which the state legislature established through a law passed in 2020. Previously, circuit court clerks in each county issued drivers licenses. The 2020 law, signed by Beshear, garnered support and opposition from both parties in the state legislature.

Kentuckians have faced long lines at the offices, and another state law went into effect this year requiring drivers to pass a vision test to renew their licenses.

Ball, the Republican state auditor, sent a letter Wednesday to Beshear and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray requesting a formal explanation regarding the allegations, saying she was troubled by reports of an alleged black market within the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Beshear, responding to a question from a reporter about if undocumented immigrants were receiving fraudulent drivers licenses, said that it was a part of the investigation.

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There are a number of different reasons people might try to get fake identification, and I want to make sure I dont get in front of the Kentucky State Police in their current investigation, Beshear said. But when thats complete, we look forward to sharing any and all of those facts.

This story was updated to add context regarding the passage of the 2020 law establishing regional drivers licensing offices.

McKenna Horsley contributed to this report.
ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  Families visiting Allendale Middle School can attend local nonprofit Ripple Effects annual Back To School Fair Thursday to benefit low-income households in the community.

We did this in partnership with our local community, Heather Devereaux, executive director with Ripple Effect, said. A lot of businesses and nonprofit organizations have joined in to have a great night for kids and families as they head back to school.

How parents can ease kids back-to-school stress, according to a psychotherapist

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From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., folks can explore over 50 vendors offering free school supplies and giveaways to families, as well as free bicycle helmets for the first 200 kids that arrive.

Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux) Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux) Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux)

Last year, we had well over 200 families that came, Devereaux said. It was busy from beginning to end. This year, were anticipating even more.

Other initiatives with Ripple Effect include their resale store and a brand new facility called Bridgets House.

(Bridgets House) is a home for homeless mothers and their children in our local community, Devereaux said. Its not very widely understood, but there is homelessness in West Michigan.

Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux) Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux) Families and students welcome in the fall with school supply giveaways and a fundraiser for Ripple Effect at Allendale Middle School. (Courtesy Heather Devereaux)

In last year alone, over 60 children from Allendale Public Schools were classified as being homeless.

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Hudsonville, Jenison, Coopersville and all of our surrounding communities have very similar if not higher numbers, Devereaux said.

How Network180 supports local teens mental health

Two other critical Ripple Effect programs that help Allendale residents are its mattress donations for recently-housed families and a community food pantry.

Families or individuals can come in anytime that were open, Devereaux said. No questions asked, if they just need extra food we can give them a box of food.

For more information on the nonprofits impact, visit the Ripple Effect website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Washington  When federal officials announced the opening of a new detention center in Florida for undocumented immigrants dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," they said its focus would be on rounding up individuals with a criminal record  people that President Trump and border czar Tom Homan have called "the worst of the worst." However, many people who have been locked up at the Florida Everglades detention center do not have criminal records, CBS News has learned.

Some of Alligator Alcatraz's detainees are "dreamers," like Edgar, who is among more than half a million beneficiaries of the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, or DACA, the federal program that allowed undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children to live and work in the country without fear of deportation.

Edgar arrived in the U.S. in 2001 when he was 13 years old, and today is the father of three U.S. citizens. In June, he was detained following a traffic stop and became one of the first detainees sent to "Alligator Alcatraz."

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"When he got arrested and he was taken there, I was actually worried for his life," Edgar's brother told CBS News.

As the Trump administration continues its immigration crackdown, the number of illegal crossings along the southern border last month reached a record low of about 4,600. At the same time, in June, there was a record-high number of migrants who were detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement  about 59,000.

Federal statistics obtained by CBS News in June showed nearly half  or 47%  of those detained by ICE lacked a criminal record, and fewer than 30% had been convicted of any crime.

ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan told CBS News on Tuesday that none of the people who have been detained at Alligator Alcatraz are there by accident.

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"These are people who have committed a crime against the United States by entering this country illegally," Sheahan said in an interview in Washington. Being undocumented is a civil violation of immigration law, not a criminal offense.

Immigration attorney Rachel Einbund told CBS News she is concerned about the precedent, asking, "Does this mean that every single dreamer is subject to deportation because [Department of Homeland Security] changed their mind?"

Edgar has since been transferred to another facility in Florida, and his family says they feel helpless.

"The fact that he's being deprived of his freedom ... that makes me feel like my hands are tied," his mother said in Spanish.

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In a video call with CBS News organized by his family, Edgar said the government made a mistake when they arrested him and sent him to "Alligator Alcatraz."

"There's actually people who is innocent, like me," said Edgar, who asked that CBS News not use his real name or show his face.

He also said he had told arresting officers he was a DACA recipient and that his status was active.

"They (ICE) said DACA was canceled, that I would stand no chance in stay in the country," he said.



Edgar and his lawyer told CBS News that they do not know why he's being detained. When asked why he thinks he's still in a detention facility, Edgar said he believes "it's like a torture and try to try to make you deport yourself."

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Of the estimated 100,000 people who were deported earlier this year, 70,583 were convicted criminals, according to another ICE document obtained by CBS News last month. Most of the documented infractions were for traffic or immigration offenses. It's unclear how many of them were part of the DACA program.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin told CBS News that undocumented immigrants who say they're beneficiaries of DACA are not automatically protected from deportation.

"DACA does not confer any form of legal status in this country," McLaughlin said. "Any illegal alien who is a DACA recipient may be subject to arrest and deportation for a number of reasons including if they've committed a crime."

CBS News reviewed Edgar's record and found he is not facing criminal charges.

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Missouri AG named co-deputy director of FBI, will serve alongside Dan Bongino

Democrat lawmaker locked in Texas House chamber after refusing police escort

Trump says no American troops will be deployed to Ukraine
An Avon developer is proposing to build 318 apartments just a few blocks from the Connecticut River, a project that could become one of the biggest residential developments in East Windsor in recent memory.

The River Pointe project off Bridge Street would include six four-story apartment buildings, each one totalling just under 62,000 square feet.

In addition, developer Robert Triggs NRT Realty LLC plans about 11,000 square feet of new retail space, including a roughly 2,500-square-foot restaurant.

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Ive always been very up on East Windsor, its a great area. And this is something good for the municipality, something the municipality needs, Trigg told The Courant on Tuesday. Id like to start this in the spring if not sooner.

The site is less than a mile from where the state transportation department is building the new Windsor Locks station for the Hartford Line, so tenants would have easy access to Hartford and communities to the south as well as Springfield, Mass.

If the plans are approved, River Pointe would be built on more than 30 acres of former farm space. The property is on the south side of Bridge Street west of I-91.

Plans show studios, one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom units, ranging from 656 square feet to 1,328.

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Trigg filed plans at town hall on Monday, and the local wetlands board is scheduled to review drainage data and related reports next week. The planning and zoning commission is likely to take up the proposal in the fall.

When NRT Realty presented a conceptual plan in the winter, its consultants said the buildings would be built in phases and leased in phases. Specifics on the schedule wouldnt be locked down until close to construction, the consultants said.

East Windsor a few years ago adopted the Warehouse Point Design District zoning rules to encourage pedestrian-friendly development in its town center. Triggs plan would bring relatively high-density housing as well as new retail, and the walking route to the CT Rail station will have sidewalks.

The site is largely an unused agricultural field, and plans show two houses, barns, a large shed and a greenhouse would be removed before construction begins.

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Trigg has not disclosed projected rents, but East Windsor already has more than 10% affordable housing and thus isnt affected by the states 8-30g law.

Plans show a dog park, 3,300-square foot clubhouse, a bike storge area, tenant storage space, and a swimming pool. A separate mail building and a trash building are also planned. The plans show a village center with walkways leading to the clubhouse and pool.

Floor plans indicate a heavy emphasis on two-bedroom units, with eight on each floor. Theyd range from 1,020 to 1,328 square feet. Each floor of each building would have one-bedroom units listed at 749 to 839 square feet, and a handful of studios are each listed at 656 square feet.

J.B. Russo & Associates is doing the engineering work for NRT Realty.

East Windsor is not the only community along the Connecticut and north of Hartford thats looking to make better use of the river. In Enfields Thompsonville section, two developers recently proposed a transit-oriented development.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  New York City has plenty of spots to get a burger, like 7th Street Burger, Jackson Hole Burgers, and Shake Shack.

Recently, a Reddit user asked if there was any place in the city where a New Yorker can find a burger like Whataburger.

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Whataburger is a renowned burger joint that originated in Texas, where they serve a burger so large that it requires two hands to eat, according to their website.

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The brand can be found in 17 states and major cities, such as Phoenix, Dallas, and Atlanta, but is absent from the Big Apple.

PIX11 News reached out to the company to see if there are any plans to open a restaurant in the city. Currently, there are no plans in place, as the eatery wants to ensure that it establishes the right supply chain in the Northeast first. However, they did provide a statement for Whataburger fans on the East Coast.

Whataburger is lucky to have some of the most passionate fans around. Coast to coast, we love hearing from folks who crave our No. 1 with cheese or French Fries with Spicy Ketchup. While there arent any plans for a Whataburger restaurant in NYC just yet, were always exploring new opportunities to expand to new markets. Maybe one day, the city that never sleeps will be the city that never stops craving a Patty Melt. Until then, were grateful for all the love from our NYC fans, and well keep serving up that Whataburger experience wherever we can. Whataburger Senior Public Relations Specialist

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
BALDWINSVILLE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  James Dale says its a lot of hard work to run the Baldwinsville Bed and Breakfast during the spring and summer.

Were always packed. The State Fair sells out first. Its kind of a trend with things that are special events, he said. In the spring, a lot of universities around here so we fill up for graduation dates.

The bed and breakfast is booked through Labor Day Weekend, with guests wanting to take in the Great New York State Fair for the end of August.

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We love the State Fair. That is a solid draw, Dale said. We are so close. We are literally 11 minutes away from the gates of the State Fair.

The president of Visit Syracuse says now is one of the biggest times for tourism in the area.

Its kind of like the holy grail. You have students moving back into Syracuse University and Le Moyne. That weekend is when we see some of the highest rates of the year, said Danny Liedka. When you couple that with the Fair, its like the perfect storm.

Liedka also says that Canadian tourism is improving. He believes the Fair could bring more visitors from up north.

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They certainly get their fair share. Its a great event, and its so close to Canada. I think the Fair will do well with Canadian visitors, certainly, he said. Maybe not in comparison with last year. We expected a bigger slide than what we are seeing on the results side.

For Dale, hes seeing a slide in Canadian guests.

During the year, I would say about 10% of traffic comes out of Canada. Even in the winter months, people come down to shop, Dale said. We have seen no Canadian tourists this year.

Liedka says visitors to Syracuse spend around $1.3 billion a year. Canadians account for 15% of that.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Amazon on Wednesday announced it will add perishable grocery items to its same-day delivery services in more than 1,000 cities throughout the United States.

The company is expanding same-day delivery to include dairy, meat, seafood, baked goods and frozen foods in cities such as Raleigh, N.C.; Tampa, Fla.; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.; and will reach up to 2,300 cities by the end of 2025.

Amazon was testing the service last year and it found many customers ordering strawberries,bananas, avocado and other perishables.

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"Many of these shoppers were first-time Amazon grocery customers who now return to shop twice as often with same-day delivery service compared to those who didn't purchase fresh food," the company said in a press release.

For Prime members on orders over $25 it's free, if it doesn't hit the minimum it's a $2.99 fee. For customers without Prime, they can pay a $12.99 fee to use the service.

"Amazon works hard to help customers feel confident in the fresh food they're purchasing online. Its specialized temperature-controlled fulfillment network ensures customers receive fresh, high-quality perishable grocery items, with every item undergoing a six-point quality check upon arrival and before leaving for delivery," according to a press release.
Some 52 million hectares of natural land have been lost in the Brazilian Amazon region since 1985  an area larger than Spain.

Nationwide, the loss over the past four decades amounts to 111.7 million hectares  more than three times the size of Germany  a report by the initiative MapBiomas released on Wednesday showed.

The network consists of universities, non-governmental organizations and technology companies and examines primarily satellite images.

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By 1985, Brazil had converted 60% of the land currently used for agriculture, mining, cities and infrastructure over nearly five centuries. "The remaining 40% of this conversion occurred in just four decades, from 1985 to 2024," said Tasso Azevedo, coordinator of MapBiomas.

The most intense deforestation occurred between 1995 and 2004. However, in the last decade, this trend "was accelerated again by degradation, climate impacts and agricultural expansion," said Julia Shimbo, scientific coordinator of MapBiomas.

Overall, according to the report, the share of natural areas in Brazil decreased from 80% in 1985 to 65% in 2024.

2024 driest year in the Pantanal

In the Pantanal - the world's largest wetland - the flood cycles have decreased with each decade, culminating in 2024 as the driest year of the last 40 years.

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Last year, the water surface there was 73% below the average of the years 1985 to 2024. The reduced moisture also favoured devastating forest fires.

In the Cerrado  Brazil's moist savannas in the south-east  about 40 million hectares of natural vegetation were cleared over the four decades. This corresponds to a reduction of 28%.
An ambulance boat and volunteers have been deployed to bring an ill person from Alderney to Guernsey.

The Flying Christine III, which provides a medical link between the islands of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, was dispatched by the Joint Emergency Services Control Centre (JESCC) at about 21:40 BST and departed St Peter Port Harbour 15 minutes later.

Ambulance and Rescue Guernsey said that, after it arrived at Braye Harbour, the medical team was transported to the Mignot Memorial Hospital and the patient was transferred by an Alderney ambulance crew.

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The ambulance boat arrived back in Guernsey at 01:00 on Wednesday and the patient was take to the emergency department by road ambulance.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Billboards across Louisiana are urging Congress to protect funding for cancer research as the Trump administration proposes an $18 billion cut to the National Institutes of Health.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) launched the campaign to highlight the importance of continued investment in cancer prevention and treatment research.

Courtney Fournet, an ACT Lead with ACS CAN, said the cause is personal. In 2022, at age 27, she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

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Ten years ago, the survival rate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia was just six months, Fournet said. Thanks to research and clinical trials, I was able to take part in an immunotherapy trial that saved my life. The survival rate now is over 90%.

Fournet said immunotherapy provided significantly fewer side effects and shorter treatment time than traditional chemotherapy. She fears funding cuts could stall breakthroughs like the one that helped her.

We dont want to put a halt to the process thats already in place and these amazing steps we are making, she said.

The billboards read: Congress: Cancer research cuts mean future cures will disappear. ACS CAN is encouraging the public to join their advocacy by texting CURES to 73508.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
Despite his administration's talk about shrinking the size and cost of government, President Donald Trump has been careful to exclude entitlements like Social Security from consideration for serious reform. That makes it essentially impossible to fix federal finances given the massive chunk of expenditures represented by these programs, but it's understandable from a political perspective. The fact is that most Americans like Social Security, though they don't understand how it works or why it's headed for a fiscal cliff. The only good news is that the public gets that there is a problem, and some are open to changes.

Back in March, the White House put out a "fact check" promising that "the Trump Administration will not cut Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid benefits. President Trump himself has said it (over and over and over again)." The assurances came amidst public concerns that DOGE cuts targeting waste and abuse mean promised benefits might be trimmed or delayed. Polling finds a large majority of Americans enthusiastic about Social Security even as they worry about its future. Many base their support for politicians at least in part on the issue.

Social Security's Origin in 'Straight Politics'

What's ironic is that the program's problems were knowingly built in from the beginning. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA) itself, when then-President Franklin Roosevelt was advised that the payroll tax funding mechanism for Social Security was financially unsound, he admitted that the economics were bad and that his plan was "straight politics" so "no damn politician can ever scrap my Social Security program." Well, he got his public support for the programand the fallout from bad financial planning.

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Fixing the 90-year-old problem will be harder than creating it, though. That's especially true since Social Security might be popular, but it's wildly misunderstood.

"Over half of Americans (55%) don't know how Social Security is funded," the Cato Institute's Emily Ekins and Hunter Johnson report of responses to a recent survey. "Less than half (45%) know that today's workers pay for current retirees, and that future workers will pay for their benefits when they retire. Nearly a quarter (23%) believe that their Social Security taxes are saved in a personal account for them. Another third (32%) say they don't know how Social Security is funded."

It's easy to see why people resent changes to a program if they mistakenly believe their taxes are contributions to personal investment accounts they'll draw against in the future. Admittedly, that's a minority of respondents, but it's enough to reinforce opposition to necessary reform.

Most Americans Mistakenly Think the Program Largely Replaces Income

Even more concerning is that 55 percent of respondents think Social Security is supposed to "largely replace seniors' income after they retire." In fact, it was set up as a safety net to make sure seniors don't fall into poverty; people are still supposed to save and invest to guarantee themselves something better than a hand-to-mouth existence. SSA numbers put retired workers' average monthly benefits at $2,002.39. The maximum possible monthly benefit is $5,108 if you retire this year at age 70 (it's lower if you retire early at 62 or at "full retirement age" of 67).

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People are setting themselves up for discomfort and disappointment if they're not putting money away themselves for their senior years.

Americans Anticipate Benefit Cuts

That's especially true if, as people anticipate, Social Security is unable to pay out full benefits. The Cato survey finds "an overwhelming majority of nonretired adults (79%) do not believe they will receive their full scheduled Social Security benefits when they retire." Thirteen percent expect to receive nothing.

At the moment, in Congressional Budget Office projections, "the balance of the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund is exhausted in fiscal year 2033." After that, benefits will have to be cut to match available funds.

The SSA agrees. "The Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) Trust Fund will be able to pay 100 percent of total scheduled benefits until 2033, unchanged from last year's report," according to the Social Security and Medicare Boards of Trustees. "At that time, the fund's reserves will become depleted and continuing program income will be sufficient to pay 77 percent of total scheduled benefits."

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To be clear, the trust find doesn't actually exist; it's just IOUs issued by the Treasury to the Social Security Administration. So, finances are even sketchier than official figures suggest. That means people are right to worry about the program's future. But their preferred remedies aren't promising.

"To avoid tax hikes or benefit cuts, a plurality (38%) of Americans would support switching to a flat Social Security benefit of about $1,800 a month for all retirees regardless of their prior earnings," note Ekins and Johnson. That could help the program's finances, but it would make Social Security an even lousier deal compared to private planning than it already is.

In 2016, the Tax Foundation compared the outcomes from private savings to Social Security benefits across a range of incomes. "In all but four of the 400 cases" in the analysis, "the annual income from saving outstrips the Social Security retirement benefit." The exceptions were "the very lowest income workers," suggesting Social Security would operate best as a welfare program for the poor. On the other hand, most people would be much better off if they could divert the money they currently surrender as payroll taxes to retirement savings plans like the 401(k). That would be a wiser fix than giving everybody a flat monthly government benefit.

Gen. Z Is Open To Reforming Social Security

Younger Americans may be open to the idea. In the Cato survey, "nearly half of Gen Z respondents said they would prefer cutting benefits (49%) to raising taxes (20%), while a majority of Baby Boomer respondents favored raising taxes (52%) to cutting benefits (13%)." And while younger respondents were more likely than older ones to mistakenly think payroll taxes fund personal Social Security accounts, most of them recognize that Social Security is only intended to prevent poverty. A Social Security program with shrinking benefits that's rightly recognized as a safety net is on its way to replacement by private planningwhich will be easier if those payroll taxes can also be reduced or put aside as the program dwindles.

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Social Security is a hot mess that was poorly structured as a means for retaining political power from the beginning. It provides lousy returns compared to private planning even as it approaches its financial doom. But, with the day of reckoning approaching, Americans seem to be bracing themselves for necessary reform.

The post Americans Misunderstand Social Security but Appear Open to Reform appeared first on Reason.com.
Pat Florence, a biochemist and attorney was one of about 50 public speakers at Tuesday's Water Quality Control Commission Meeting, urging the commission to not continue hearing a rule which would expand uses for oil and gas wastewater. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

The New Mexico board overseeing water regulations quashed robust public opposition Tuesday seeking to stop a proposal that would allow much wider use of oil and gas wastewater that environmental advocates say could contaminate the states limited supply of drinking water.

Dozens of people spoke during a three-hour public comment period that drew over 100 attendees to the Water Quality Control Commission Meeting at the Roundhouse. Most objected to the renewed effort to change rules about disposal of wastewater, a potentially toxic byproduct of oil and gas extraction. State law currently limits disposal to oilfields and recently extended disposal in concrete pits for pilot projects to test treatment technologies.

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Opponents included conservation nonprofits such as Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter, Amigos Bravos, Western Environmental Law Center, among others; members from acequias and several health care workers. Sen. Harold Pope presented a letter from 25 Democratic lawmakers, urging the commission to keep the current rule in place.

Reopening this issue undermines the Democratic process and disrespects the publics investment of time and trust, said Pope, a Democrat from Albuquerque. There has been no new, no new peer-reviewed, published scientific evidence presented.

Proponents for the changes say allowing the byproduct  also known as produced water  to be used for more industrial, construction and agricultural purposes would mean less tapping into fresh sources used for drinking.

An industry group known as WATR, which stands for Water, Access, Treatment and Reuse (WATR) Alliance, with board members from oil and gas giants Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Occidental Petroleum and other industry interests, put forward the new proposal in June, just a month after the state water commission adopted rules to allow for pilot projects, but no discharges into surface or groundwater.

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WATRs proposed rule would allow 13 counties to use the treated produced water for uses such as watering livestock, non-food crops, construction and release into the environment.

Jennifer Bradfute, an attorney for Water, Access, Treatment and Reuse (WATR) Alliance testfied at Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025 commitee meeting. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

I think that this commission should hear from the communities where the waters being produced, from the communities who see the water being transported to Texas every day, Jennifer Bradfute, an attorney for WATR Alliance told commissioners Tuesday. They see and witness the missed opportunity for New Mexicans to treat and use that water in their own projects, for their own economic development.

The 12-member board rejected three motions from environmental groups Tuesday to toss WATRs proposal altogether or to request additional time to prepare for a future hearing. The boards vote Tuesday means the proposal to expand use of oil and gas wastewater will be considered at a hearing tentatively scheduled for November.

Attorneys for New Mexico environment and conservation groups called Tuesdays vote a travesty and disappointment, saying theyd seek further legal options.

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They completely shut the public out of the process today, Mariel Nanasi, executive director and attorney at nonprofit New Energy Economy, told Source New Mexico after the hearing.

As young people, were extremely disappointed that the Commission chose to side with polluters, said Vittoria Judy with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action in a statement after the meeting. The industrys toxic waste crisis is not our problem to solve, and if regulators wont protect us, well keep fighting to defend our water and our future.

Its the latest development in a tense policy debate to address New Mexicos water scarcity driven by climate change, clashing with oil and gas and the industrys political influence in New Mexico.

The New Mexico oil and gas industry generates billions of gallons of wastewater. The mixture is extremely salty and poses challenges for treatment since it can contain radioactive materials, heavy metals, toxic chemicals and cancer-causing compounds from the oil and gas, such as benzene. Oil and gas companies can use compounds protected as trade secrets in the mixture, which do not have to be disclosed to regulators or the public.

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Powerful proponents for treating the water include Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces), chair of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee.

Setting standards for reusing treated wastewater would create the regulatory pathway to offset industrial demand for freshwater while protecting our families, farmers and communities, Jodi McGinnis Porter, a spokesperson for the governor, said in a written statement. The governor supports the Water Quality Control Commission considering the reuse petition and reaching a decision based on thorough review of all scientific data and expert testimony presented by the parties.

Water Commissioner Bill Brancard, who said he opposed WATRs proposal, warned their attorneys to limit the scope of the changes, saying that theyll be raked over the coals in the upcoming public hearing for the broad proposed uses.

It was never in the intent of the commission when we passed the last set of regulations to go from nothing to 60 in two seconds, he said during Tuesday hearing. The goal was incremental changes built on what the commission has built. Instead, youre proposing to completely repeal the entire effort of the commission and do something that nobody considered from the beginning.

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The human family tree is looking more and more like an unruly bush.

Paleontologists have now uncovered the teeth of two different ancient human lineages at the same site in northeastern Ethiopia.

The discovery collapses the distance between the first of our genus and the last of the australopithecines in eastern Africa.

The two probably coexisted.

Related: Lucy Is 50: How a Bombshell 1974 Discovery Redefined Human Origins

"This new research shows that the image many of us have in our minds of an ape to a Neanderthal to a modern human is not correct  evolution doesn't work like that," says paleoecologist Kaye Reed from Arizona State University (ASU).

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"Human evolution is not linear; it's a bushy tree. There are life forms that go extinct."

The left australopithecine molars from Ledi-Geraru compared to A. afarensis. (Villmoare et al., Nature, 2025)

The Australopithecus genus  to which the famous 'Lucy' belongs  existed long before Neanderthals or our ancestors. It was one of the earliest hominins to habitually walk upright.

These new findings suggest that the lineage existed in eastern Africa right as our genus was evolving, more than 2.5 million years ago.

Perhaps we shared lands, or maybe we fought over resources. Who knows how closely we lived, or how often we crossed paths.

The two lineages seem to have evolved side by side for hundreds of thousands of years.

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The remarkable discovery was made at a site called Ledi-Geraru, where scientists previously found the earliest evidence of the Homo genus: a jawbone dating back 2.78 million years.

Hidden nearby, paleontologists have now stumbled upon the teeth of another Homo species, dating back 2.59 million years, as well as teeth of an australopithecine from 2.63 million years ago  the only definitive evidence of the ape-like genus in eastern Africa at this time.

Comparison between the canines of the Ledi-Geraru (LD) australopithecine teeth and the teeth of A. afarensis (AL). (Villmoare et al., Nature, 2025)

Lucy was also found in Ethiopia, and her species (Australopithecus afarensis) may be the lineage from which our Homo ancestors branched from. But just as our ancestors pop up in eastern Africa, the fossil evidence for A. afarensis runs cold.

The newly uncovered teeth from Ledi-Geraru now put our ancestors closer to australopithecines in time and space than ever before.

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Scientists have yet to determine the exact species to which the Homo teeth and the Australopithecus teeth belong, but the latter don't match Lucy or others of her kind.

Much seems to have changed in half a million years.

"We know what the teeth and mandible of the earliest Homo look like, but that's it," says lead author and paleontologist Brian Villmoare from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).

"This emphasizes the critical importance of finding additional fossils to understand the differences between Australopithecus and Homo, and potentially how they were able to overlap in the fossil record at the same location."

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Scientists previously suspected that both of these early human lineages overlapped in time, but the archaeological evidence didn't exist until now.

The ancient teeth found at Ledi-Geraru help fill a sizable gap in the fossil record between 2.5 and 3 million years ago.

The total number of known hominins living in eastern Africa now rises to four: two distinct species of australopithecine, a 'robust australopithecine' offshoot called Paranthropus, and the early Homo genus.

"The hominin fossil record is more diverse than previously known," conclude Villmoare and colleagues.

This story is just beginning

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The study was published in Nature.

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Ryan Anderson was sentenced to six months in prison by United Sates District Court Judge Donald Nugent Tuesday in Cleveland.

Anderson was charged on information in April with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and arson in relation to the February 2021 fire that destroyed the former Golden Anchor in Conneaut. He pleaded guilty April 16. At his sentencing, Anderson was ordered to pay $1,156,272.88 restitution to an insurance company, fined $10,000 and received a $100 special assessment fee.

After Anderson completes his prison sentence, he will be on three years of supervised release, six months of which will be spent under home detention, with location monitoring.

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Andersons defense attorney, Eric Nemecek, said Nugent took a lot of time to consider the facts and circumstances of the case, and Andersons character.

It was a fair sentence, he said.

Nemecek said Anderson has done a lot to make the situation as right as he can.

Ryan is a great person who made a terrible mistake, and he has done a lot to atone for it over the last several years, he said.

The United States Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Ohio could not be reached for comment.

Anderson and Rueben Schwartz are jointly and severally liable for the restitution. Both men conspired to commit wire fraud after setting fire to the former Golden Anchor, according to Andersons initial charging documents.

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The charging documents against Anderson say he did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree to commit offenses against the United States with Schwartz from January 2021 to May 9, 2022.

Schwartz and Anderson prepared the Golden Anchor for the arson by stacking flammable materials in particular places and sealing holes cut for windows to prevent bystanders from seeing smoke and alerting emergency services in time, according to the information.

Anderson and Schwartz did limited renovations to give the appearance that Schwartz always planned to complete renovations, according to the information filing.

The information said Anderson set the fire by using a large torpedo heater, effectively resulting in the complete destruction of the [property].

Schwartz was sentenced April 9 to 28 months in prison, with credit for time served, after pleading guilty on July 29, 2024 to charges related to the fire.
NEW YORK  Andrew Cuomo is overhauling his buttoned-up public persona and pugilistic campaign for New York City mayor in a desperate bid to stop democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani.

His social media presence, characterized by its conventionality during the Democratic primary, has taken on a slang-inflected, sassy voice during the general election  and its almost entirely directed at his 33-year-old foe, who has excelled online.

Welcome to the heavyweight bout,@ZohranKMamdani, Cuomos account tweeted recently . This is a two man race. You look tired already. Its just the second round.

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After failing to defeat Mamdani in the primary by calling attention to his anti-Israel stance, the 67-year-old former New York governor has become a class warrior and is throwing haphazard haymakers at Mamdani. Hes taken him to task for his familial ties to Uganda, living in a rent stabilized apartment and benefitting from his prominent parents. A top Cuomo strategist  without irony  attacked Mamdani as a nepo baby.

Running an independent campaign in a five-candidate general election field, Cuomo, the son of three-term governor Mario Cuomo, has ditched his suit and tie for a looser version of his hard-charging, aggressive personality. The strategy has yet to help Cuomo overcome Mamdani, who has held a steady lead in polling since his primary victory. A Siena University poll released Monday found Mamdani handily leading Cuomo 44 percent to 25 percent, though the sample size was small.

It all adds up to an unusual underdog role the former governor finds himself in after losing decisively to Mamdani by double digits in the June Democratic primary. Virtually all of Cuomos campaigns in his long political career have put him at the front of the pack  including his unsuccessful comeback bid for the Democratic nomination. The new dynamic for Cuomo is part of a broader generational battle: Moderate, establishment Democrats facing off against hard-left upstarts born during the digital age and adept at energizing voters online.

The attacks on Mamdanis well-to-do background are a risky proposition for an ex-governor with a storied political name.

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Its an age of authenticity, which rewards a Donald Trump, rewards a Bernie Sanders and rewards a Zohran, former Mayor Bill de Blasio, a longtime Cuomo foe, told POLITICO. Andrew is not giving people a reason to believe. He appears to be trying on different personalities, different messages, in a clinical, cynical manner. Voters see right through it.

The personality change isnt total: The sharp-elbowed style remains.

Talking about authenticity from a guy who changed his name, dyes his hair and walked the cornfields of Iowa instead of doing his job only to get 0 percent in the polls is rich, Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi said in response to the ex-mayor. The only thing de Blasio did authentically was drive the citys trajectory into the ground for 8 years, but admittedly, at that he was very good.

Cuomos scaled down team  a coterie of longtime aides remain while consultants have left ahead of the general election  is opening up access to him with reporters after running a press-allergic primary campaign. They are eager to show Cuomos interactions with New Yorkers, all documented in short videos posted online , a reverse from his paltry retail efforts during the primary.

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The former governors new-look campaign, which reported more than $1 million in cash on hand, still has financial resources to last until November. But many of his wealthy backers, like ex-Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who contributed to a Cuomo-allied super PAC, have been publicly silent about his general election effort.

The former governor must also contend with the presence of Mayor Eric Adams in the field. Adams, a fellow moderate, shares an overlapping base of support, including Black and Jewish voters. Cuomo and the mayor have tried in vain to convince the other to drop out and unite the field against Mamdani.

Cuomo is not running with the same institutional support hes enjoyed for much of his political career, which seemingly ground to a halt in 2021 after a state attorney general report found he sexually harassed 11 women; hes denied any wrongdoing.

Despite resigning in disgrace, Cuomo quickly raked in cash and endorsements from the citys political and business elite when he launched his primary run in March, as his advisers insisted he was the all-but-inevitable next mayor of the nations largest city.

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Cuomos team privately believed Mamdanis anti-Israel views, hard-left policies like government-run grocery stores and inexperience would make him an easy primary opponent to dispatch.

It didnt work out.

The former governor got pummeled by Mamdani, whose focus on affordability vaulted his once afterthought of a candidacy ahead of better known and more experienced candidates.

Cuomo retreated in July to make his pitch to the Hamptons elite and directly to voters that he deserved another shot in the general election. Significant endorsements of Cuomos retooled campaign, however, have not materialized.

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A huge part of his appeal was his sense of inevitability, said Democratic strategist Alyssa Cass, who advised former Comptroller Scott Stringers mayoral campaign. Once Superman's lost his cape, it's hard to get it back. In politics, no one likes a loser.

Mamdanis campaign has made changes of its own since his upset victory. Hes met with wealthy business leaders to assure them his plans to sharply raise taxes on the rich to pay for his proposals like free buses wont damage the citys economy.

Politically crucial unions have lined up to endorse him , and hes received backing from local Democratic leaders  though endorsements from Gov. Kathy Hochul, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of Brooklyn have eluded him. Republicans have already signaled they will make Mamdani a key component of their midterm strategy in 2026 and link him to Democratic House candidates in crucial swing districts.

Democrats on the sidelines have kept their distance with a studied neutrality.

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I see Mr. Mamdani is reaching out to a lot of business leaders and a lot of capitalists as well as so-called regular Democrats, said Rep. Greg Meeks, the Queens Democratic Party chair who is yet to endorse in the general election. And I see Mr. Cuomo out and about in a way that he was not out in a way previously.

Meeks acknowledged Mamdanis message on the cost of living in a deeply expensive city is something the rest of the party can carry.

From all the reports Ive gotten from some that have met with him hes articulated clearly his message  making things affordable, he said. The devil is always in the details. Affordable housing  these are the issues the entire Democratic Party are talking about.

Its also a message Cuomo has picked up as a cudgel in recent weeks to swing back at Mamdani.

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The former governor proposed income limits for rent-regulated apartments like the one Mamdani lives in  a move meant to draw attention to Mamdanis privileged background as the son of a prominent filmmaker and Columbia University professor.

Rent stabilized units when theyre vacant should only be rented to people who need affordable housing  not people like Zohran Mamdani, Cuomo said.

The proposal was preceded by attacks from the ex-governors top strategist, Melissa DeRosa, who accused Mamdani of being a nepo baby. Cuomo himself is the son of a former governor and was once married to a member of the Kennedy family. DeRosas father is a top Albany lobbyist.

The campaign has also highlighted Mamdanis Ugandan roots following his wedding celebration at a family compound there last month.

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Cuomos campaign tweeted that Uganda is a country that murders LGBTQIA+ people.

I hereby call on you to Boycott, Divest, and Sanction your property in Uganda and commit to stop spending tourism dollars there until they overturn their hateful, discriminatory laws which violate basic human rights, the campaign posted on X.

The attack served two ends. While explicitly focused on Uganda, it also implicitly nodded at Mamdanis support for sanctioning Israel  a line of criticism Cuomo has backed away from as conditions in Gaza have worsened.

The former governor has also pressed Mamdani on his thin resume, contending its not up to the challenges of Trump 2.0  an attack line hes built on since the primary.

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Cuomo this week argued the three-term state lawmaker doesnt have the experience or chops to effectively counter Trumps efforts to interfere with New Yorks affairs as the federal government takes control of Washingtons police department.

Mamdani has shrugged off the attacks while his campaign has focused on Cuomos complex and long-standing relationship with Trump. The New York Times reported last week that Cuomo spoke recently with the Republican president; the former governor insisted the call hasnt happened. Trump has also denied there was a recent phone call.

We know that no amount of reinvention through a new online persona can distract from the fact that we just had a Democratic primary where New Yorkers spoke loudly and clearly, where we defeated Andrew Cuomos campaign by 13 points, Mamdani told reporters Monday.

Like many politicians, Cuomo has long insisted social media is not an accurate reflection of real life or a true barometer of political support. Since revamping his campaign this summer, though, Cuomos campaign has reversed course.

His X account  once a typically staid presence of press-release like posts  has become a livelier destination. Cuomo has become a reply guy posting emojis and Gen Z-inflected lingo ( lazyweb whats the correct term for this? ).

The effort is meant, in part, to meet Mamdani on the same field of political battle where the younger, less experienced candidate has found success. The tactic, though, has its limitations.

Attacking Zohran for inexperience and for policy positions that are too far left out of the mainstream are still effective attacks, said Democratic consultant Austin Shafran. But personal attacks that reek of hypocrisy wont move the negatives much on Zohran. For every point he scores hes going to lose half a point for throwing stones when he grew up in a gilded glass house.

Jason Beeferman and Emily Ngo contributed to this report.
ANDREWS COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Andrews community is rallying behind one of its own, as Officer Rebecca Miller battles leukemia.

Miller, who is known for her dedication to helping others through her career in law enforcement, was recently diagnosed and has begun chemotherapy treatment. Friends, colleagues, and residents are now coming together to support her through a GoFundMe campaign that hopes to ease the financial burden during her fight.

According to the organizers, Millers treatment will require isolation and time away from work, leaving her unable to do what she has always done: care for others. The fundraiser, which launched earlier this month, has already raised more than $16,000 toward a $50,000 goal from over 100 donations.

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If you know Rebecca, you know shes always the first to help others, reads a post from the campaign. Now, as she begins treatment for leukemia, its our turn to help her for once.

In an update posted Aug. 5, organizer Sara Brus shared encouraging news from Millers doctor, who said her cells are responding well to chemotherapy. While multiple rounds of treatment are still ahead, Miller remains positive and grateful for the outpouring of support.

Both Andrews EMS and the Andrews Police Department have shared the campaign online, encouraging donations and prayers. Every bit helps, they wrote in separate statements.

Those wishing to contribute can visit the GoFundMe page to donate or share the link to spread awareness.

For more information or to donate, visit this website.

Tea2Go TeaNergy Andrews also held its own fundraiser for Miller by selling one of her favorite drinks.

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Help us help Officer Miller! Officer Miller has been diagnosed with Leukemia. She LOVES pickle drinks, so we are going to do a Pickle Drink Fundraiser in her honor! the local business posted.

According to its Facebook page, customers can order the pickle lemonade, sour pickle energy drink, or the sweet pickle energy drink. 50 percent of all pickle drinks sold from August 8 to August 15 will be donated to help cover medical expenses as Miller continues to battle leukemia.

Tea2Go Andrews is located at 309 N Main St, Andrews, TX 79714.

From financial contributions to pickle drinks, the Andrews community is proving that when one of their own is in need, they show up, together.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
A years-in-the-making ordinance overhauling the Chicago Police Departments search warrant policy could at last get over the finish line in September, advocates hope, but without the ban on no-knock warrants Mayor Brandon Johnson promised in his 2023 campaign.

Instead the Anjanette Young ordinance, named after the Black social worker who police handcuffed and left naked in her home while serving a warrant at the wrong address, will require cops to wait 30 seconds before entry. Its a compromise accepted by both Young and her main council ally, Ald. Maria Hadden, one that reflects the shift in the political climate since demand for police accountability reached a fever pitch during the Black Lives Matter movement that exploded in 2020.

The new version grants Hadden, Young and her supporters the ability to claim a win that they say will still protect Chicagoans. But the struggle thus far to build consensus behind the tougher ordinance, despite the citywide furor over police mistreatment of Young, reflects the difficulty activists faced in turning energy around the George Floyd protests into legislation.

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While Young and Hadden said they still support a no-knock ban in the future, and Johnson campaigned on such a law, the mayor has avoided giving his current stance on the issue.

Its an ongoing conversation, the mayor told reporters this week about whether a no-knock ban remains on his agenda. These reforms and transformations certainly dont come easily, but it doesnt stop us, prevent us or curtail us, quite frankly, from pursuing justice.

The pivot comes after five years of Young and Hadden focusing on no-knock warrants, which allow officers to forcibly enter homes without announcing themselves, as the chief target of the legislation. Their calls to abolish those search warrants joined the nationwide movement triggered by the 2020 police shooting of Breonna Taylor, a Black woman killed in Louisville, Kentucky, during a flawed drug investigation.

But while outlawing no-knock warrants may make for a more impressive win, Young said the sharp drop in those types of raids occurring over the years allowed her to feel comfortable with taking the ban out for now.

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Now ultimately, would I love to see no-knock warrants completely banned in the city, the state and across the country? Absolutely, Young said. But I feel hopeful in the sense that if this ordinance passed, we have a tangible piece of legislation that allows for accountability.

To be sure, the wrongful 2019 police raid on Youngs home was not the result of a no-knock warrant. Rather, police conducted a knock-and-announce raid at the wrong address, which the mayor argued in July should be the focus of the ordinance instead because those comprise the majority of Chicago police search warrants.

Johnson did not say which party suggested taking the no-knock ban out. But according to Hadden, police Superintendent Larry Snellings team did so and the mayors office did not object to the change.

After looking at Chicago police data showing no-knock warrants have been barely used, Hadden said she and Young agreed it was not worth jeopardizing the success of an ordinance that had been subject to years of false starts and stops.

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We want to get something passed thats actually addressing the problematic behavior, and if that means some compromises, were willing to do it, Hadden said. We cant let the perfect be the enemy of the good.

CPD officers last year executed 210 residential search warrants  an 84% decrease from 2019, the year of the Young raid, when officers used residential search warrants nearly 1,400 times, according to figures provided by the Police Department. Data on how many were no-knock warrants was not publicly available.

Over the last six years, internal Chicago police directives as well as the federal consent decree on the department have also been expanded to add new provisions surrounding search warrant execution.

Even the weaker version could put Johnson at odds with Snelling, whose office has not endorsed the 30-second rule that the mayor has pitched as a more precise tool to prevent botched police raids.

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That could stymie buy-in from pro-law enforcement aldermen who might be reluctant to buck police leadership  and set the stage for an awkward split between the mayor and his top cop.

Chicago police declined to comment on the pending legislation. Johnson confirmed at an unrelated news conference, however, that Snelling was hesitant to endorse the latest version.

There are some concerns that the superintendent has raised. Were going to continue to work through this process, Johnson said. The most important thing though that I know that the superintendent is committed to  this is my commitment  is to work to make sure that that trauma that Ms. Anjanette Young experienced, that that doesnt happen again. And I commend Anjanette Young for her steadfastness and commitment to ensuring that this ordinance not only sees the life of day, that it actually becomes law.

The ordinance is currently in the council Police and Fire Committee after Hadden introduced it last month. If it passes there, it could get an up-or-down vote in the full council as soon as September.

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Ald. Chris Taliaferro, the mayors handpicked chair of the committee, said he hasnt made up his mind on the measure yet, but even a time limit placed on entry needs to be discussed  to see what is not only best for our residents, but whats best for the safety of our police officers as well.

The official language requires cops knock and announce the officers presence at a volume loud enough for the officer to reasonably believe the occupants inside can hear, allow at least 30 seconds before entry, and delay entry if the officer has reason to believe that someone is approaching the dwellings entrance with the intent of voluntarily allowing the officer to enter.

There is an exception during an exigent circumstance, such as imminent danger of death or grave injury provided that the imminent danger is not created by law enforcement service and executing the residential search warrant.

Besides that provision, the latest version also requires the Police Department to establish a policy addressing gun-pointing and any raids at homes with children 16 and younger as well as the elderly and disabled.

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On Feb. 21, 2019, police botched the execution of a warrant and went to the wrong home, restraining Young instead of an unrelated male suspect while she was getting ready for bed. Officers did not allow her to put on clothes and handcuffed her during their search. The raid at Youngs home was captured on officers body cameras and quickly went viral after the video was publicly released, sparking one of former Mayor Lori Lightfoots biggest police accountability scandals of her term.

Since then, Young has crusaded against the Police Departments search warrant process and was awarded a $2.9 million settlement in December 2021.

In 2022, Hadden attempted to push the Anjanette Young ordinance forward in a City Council committee but failed in a 10-4 vote. That was after a previous version presented to the body in 2021 also never garnered a floor vote as Lightfoot argued such reforms should be reflected within Police Department directives, not codified in law.

The earlier legislation would have banned no-knock warrants except in the case of exigent circumstances.

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One critic of Johnsons decision to back off a no-knock warrant ban in the new version came from an unlikely corner of the City Council.

Ald. Raymond Lopez, a member of City Councils more conservative bloc, called for a six-month moratorium on no-knock warrants in 2020. He said last week, If someone like me who is unashamed of my support for law enforcement can propose significant and sweeping changes to our warrant execution, why cant a progressive mayor?

Meanwhile, Illinois Democrats are still working through their own proposal for a statewide ban. This past session in the General Assembly, Young testified before state lawmakers on legislation sponsored by state Rep. Kam Buckner, a Chicago Democrat, to prohibit most no-knock search warrants.

It passed committee before lawmakers adjourned, and Buckner said he intends to move it along either in the fall veto session or next year. The former mayoral candidate noted that it had bipartisan support and also the backing of the Illinois State Rifle Association.

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If Democrats in the city of Chicago cant figure out how to get this done, but you have Republicans from downstate and from rural districts who understand the need and the necessity, its a little curious, Buckner said. But I believe that well find a way to get there, both in the city and in the state.

Young said she wasnt involved much in politics before the botched raid in 2019. Now, she can rattle off the City Council legislative process, the ins and outs of court cases on other wrongful police raids and the latest negotiations with the consent decree monitor.

She said she isnt fazed by the latest hurdle in her long-winding road to get to what she hopes is the final stage of her namesake ordinance, either.

Things start to fade when no one is paying attention, and so I refuse to let the city of Chicago or the state of Illinois not pay attention to me and what happened to me, Young said.
Pets deserve to have a loving home, but sometimes thats not the case, and thats where local animal shelters come in.

From Friday to Monday, the ANNA Shelter on East 10th Street brought in 44 dogs, 17 cats, two ferrets and four horses  all animals that the shelters director said were needy and neglected.

Non-profits touch everybody every day  Erie Gives Day 2025 continues to accept donations

It was like one after the other, and again that gets overwhelming, but were all about, when I started this place, like one animal, one day at a time, and I try to remind myself of things like that, but its hard, said Ruth Thompson, ANNA Shelter Director.

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Thompson said every animal they rescued needed to be there for one reason or another  some were starving, some needed immediate medical attention, and one little puppy even had two of his legs broken.

The animals came to the shelter through multiple rescues over the weekend, and that has also put a burden on the shelters veterinarian team at their other location on West Ridge Road.

When they get a lot of animals in at the shelter, we do get some that get transported over here to be x-rayed, to have bloodwork done, to have exams done, have minor procedures done, or even sometimes major procedures if theyre urgent enough, said Dr. Sarah Zeigler, ANNA Shelter Veterinarian.

Crawford Gives fundraising event officially kicks off

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Dr. Zeigler said they have already treated some limping dogs and cats with upper respiratory conditions, but caring for these animals also comes with a need for supplies.

The shelter is always accepting donations of food, cat litter, blankets, cleaning supplies, and anything to keep the animals safe, comfortable and healthy.

Conveniently, the uptick in animal rescues has also coincided with Eries biggest donation drive of the year.

For us, its just an everyday thing, so it just happens that today is Erie Gives Day, said Thompson. I always feel like god does this for me, wanting to remind me why were here and were doing what were supposed to be doing, but the Erie Gives, its an opportunity for the community to show their support.

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Thompson said one of the best ways to help is also their foster-to-adopt program, which allows foster care for needy animals before keeping them, with medical expenses completely paid for by the shelter.

She said some animals dont necessarily need to recover at the shelter, and animals would rather have that one-on-one love than be behind bars.

JET 24s own Craig Flint gets dunked for donations on Erie Gives Day

If you would like to support the ANNA Shelter, you can head to their website here for more ways to help.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Con artist Anna Sorokin claims shes received hundreds of death threats after she was accused of abandoning bunnies she posed with during a photoshoot in New York.

The 34-year-old so-called fake heiress, who was convicted of grand larceny in 2019 for defrauding banks, hotels, and her friends out of hundreds of thousands of dollars, posted photos to her Instagram account last week capturing her posing in the Big Apple with two bunnies on red leashes.

Someone later reported seeing the same rabbits roaming in Brooklyns Prospect Park. Since posting the photos on her account, which boasts 1.1 million followers, Sorokin said shes been bombarded with death threats. She claims to have had nothing to do with the logistics of the photoshoot.

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I am deeply alarmed by the death threats and hundreds of vile, harassing messages flooding my social media, she wrote in a statement on Instagram Tuesday.

The Independent has asked the NYPD if Sorokin has informed police about the alleged death threats.

Con artist Anna Sorokin claimed shes been receiving death threats after being accused of abandoning bunnies in a New York park following a photoshoot (Getty Images)

Sorokin posted a series of photos and videos last week from the photoshoot. Dressed in a blue mini dress and matching heels  an ensemble that allowed her ankle monitor to be on full display  Sorokin holds her long blonde locks in one hand and holds the red bunny leashes with the other outside a Subway station in downtown Manhattan.

Sorokin served almost four years in prison over duping Manhattans elite and spent another 18 months in immigration detention for overstaying her U.S. visa. She is now required to wear an ankle monitor as part of the terms of her house arrest.

Fake German heiress Anna Sorokin after being sentenced in Manhattan Supreme Court May 9, 2019 following her conviction (AFP via Getty Images)

Terry Chao, a blogger, saw one of the rabbits in Prospect Park hiding in a bush, the New York Times reported. She told the outlet that she had recognized the bunny from a Facebook group, where some bunnies had recently been listed for adoption.

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They went and got those bunnies for the shoot, basically as props, and then dumped them, Chao told the paper. They dont have any survival mechanisms like wild rabbits do.

Sorokin shared screenshots from a text exchange that suggest a person named Christian Batty ditched the rabbits in the park. The Independent has made attempts to contact Batty.

Chao said in an Instagram statement that Batty had reached out to her before the photoshoot to scout for bunnies. He later showed up and helped her rescue a bunny from the shoot, she said.

Batty apologized in a since-deleted Instagram post, which was reposted by Sorokin and Chao.

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When I realized the rabbits were being surrendered to me, I panicked, the post read. At 19, with no experience caring for animals, no pet-friendly housing, and no knowledge of available resources, I felt overwhelmed and made the worst possible choice. Believing, mistakenly, that there were existing rabbits in that area, I released them there, thinking that was my best option.

Sorokin said she had nothing to do with the planning of the photoshoot and denied dumping the bunnies (Getty Images)

Sorokin said she had nothing to do with the planning of the photoshoot.

She said she had agreed to pose for the photographer, Jasper Egan Soloff. His lawyer disputed Sorokins claims.

This was not Jaspers photo shoot, and he did not arrange any of the details surrounding it, he told the NYT, noting his client had been hired to take photos of Sorokin. Jasper had no knowledge or input as to how the bunnies were obtained or what happened to them after the photo shoot.

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In a statement on Instagram on Tuesday, Sorokin said she donated $1,000 to the nonprofit All About Rabbits Rescue.

The nonprofit confirmed Tuesday evening toThe Independent that it had received Sorokins donation.
GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT)  The 9th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charities telethon ended the night with $79,500 raised to support families with the charity.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern North Carolina welcomes in hundreds of families each year.

Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, the Ronald McDonald House Charities and WNCT will host the ninth-annual telethon in Greenville.

Ahead of the telethon, Jackia Chamblee shared what the organization means to her and her son, Messiah.

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I went through a routine check up. Well, it was kind of an emergency checkup, and my doctor, she was telling me like, Hey, Im going to send you over to the hospital. I had an emergency C-section, Chamblee said.

Chamblee said Messiah was born at 24 weeks old and was two pounds, two ounces and had a head full of hair.

I had heard about the Ronald McDonald House, but I never knew. I always thought it was just for, like, cancer patients, you know, their parents and everything, Chamblee said. So, I didnt know that it was for also the NICU.

It was a blessing. It was like godsend. We werent even focused on where we were going to stay. It was more like we need to get to this hospital because I just had him, I havent seem him yet, Chamblee said. The first two weeks of us being here, we were so stressed because you dont know whats going on. So, it was a way for us to just step away, take a deep breath.

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He got sick the first two weeks of life so, it was kind of touch and go. He left the hospital with no oxygen, no feeding tubes and a lot of adopted aunts and uncles from the hospital and from here, Chamblee said.

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We spent major holidays here. We were here for Thanksgiving and Christmas, New Years, Halloween, and we just thought like they actually care, Chamblee said. Its not just like, okay, you can stay here. They like, make sure the kids got stuff for Christmas. For Thanksgiving, if they couldnt travel back and forth, they made sure they had dinner.

Were going to do his birthday parties here and instead of them bringing gifts for him, were going to send out a list with like his birthday invitations so people can donate here and you know, help get the stuff that they need, Chamblee said. I feel like its one of the causes to actually donate to. Its not like Im donating. I dont know where my money is going to. You can see your impact with everything they have going on.

The telethon kicks off Friday morning at 6 a.m. and runs through 7 p.m. that 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 WNCT.
A resident of the Mendenhall Valley sits by sandbags loaded at an event held on July 26, 2025, by the City and Borough of Juneau and the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. By 1 p.m. that day, more than 100 cars had checked in at the Dimond Park Field House, according to city officials. Each household was allowed to fill 75 sandbags. The event, one of several held by municipal and Tribe officials, was in anticipation of another glacial outburst flood. (Photo by Corrine Smith/Alaska Beacon)

A long-awaited glacial flood is hitting Alaskas capital city.

On Tuesday morning, local officials sent warning messages to cellphones across the City and Borough of Juneau, alerting local residents that the Mendenhall Glaciers ice-dammed lake has burst its barrier and is sending a torrent of water toward homes and businesses in the Mendenhall Valley.

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We are prepared for this situation. Weve been preparing for this situation, said Sabrina Grubitz, public safety manager for the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, and the commander of a unified local government task force responding to the flood.

The flood is expected to peak Wednesday afternoon at 16.6 feet, likely setting a record and surpassing a flood last year that damaged more than 290 homes.

With the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stating that permanent flood barriers could be years off, local officials have installed semi-permanent HESCO walls in some neighborhoods to avert the worst flooding.

Those barriers have not yet been tested in an actual flood.

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Local officials have asked residents in the affected area to voluntarily evacuate in case the barriers do not perform as intended.

During a briefing on Tuesday morning, Ryan OShaughnessy, director of emergency programs for the City and Borough of Juneau, gestured at maps showing the predicted inundation without the barriers.

We strongly encourage everyone in the 17-foot inundation layer to evacuate their homes sometime today. Theres no need to rush out of neighborhoods, but we encourage folks to take a moment, take a deep breath, remember that they have a plan. This is something that weve been planning for as a community. Grab their go bag, let their family and friends know where theyre going, and then execute that, he said.

Capital City Fire/Rescue Assistant Chief Sam Russell warned local residents to not stand on the flood barriers and for sightseers to stay away from the area.

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Public radio and television station KTOO has set up several live video streams with instant information for people who want to keep an eye on the situation.

I know everybody wants to see whats going on, but we have cameras that are posted on the website, and youll be able to observe from there other things that are going on, he said.

An evacuation shelter has been set up at nearby Floyd Dryden school, OShaughnessy said, and a non-emergency hotline has been set up for people who need information about shelter, transportation or other things. That number is 907-500-0890. Any road closures can be monitored at 511.alaska.gov.

As of Tuesday afternoon, much of the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area  Alaskas most-visited tourist attraction  was closed to the public. The glaciers visitor center remained open, but most trails, including the heavily trafficked Nugget Falls Trail, campground and West Glacier Trail, were closed.

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On Monday, Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued a preemptive state disaster declaration in response to an imminent threat of catastrophic flooding, to support a coordinated interagency emergency response. By issuing this declaration before the flood occurs, we can position state resources and personnel in advance to support local and tribal governments in their efforts to protect

lives, homes, and essential services, Dunleavy said in a statement with the announcement. Our goal is to act early to reduce impacts and preserve community safety.

This weeks flood has been anticipated for months. Since 2011, the Mendenhall Glacier has caused floods each summer as Suicide Basin  a glacially locked lake  fills with meltwater and runoff, then bursts from its confines after the water overtops an icy dam.

As more ice melts amid global climate change, the flooding has grown worse. In 2023, the flood eroded the Mendenhall Rivers banks, causing homes to collapse. In 2024, the flood was the worst yet.

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After that experience, city and local officials mobilized to avoid a repeat, and theyve been monitoring Suicide Basin closely.

This weeks flood was forecast well in advance, and residents were repeatedly warned ahead of time. On Monday, workers went door to door, distributing almost 900 warning flyers, and theres an additional 200 residents that are being contacted this morning directly, OShaughnessy said.

Nicole Ferrin, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service forecast office in Juneau, said officials expect the Mendenhall River to continue to rise through the next 24 hours, with a crest sometime Wednesday afternoon, around 16.6 feet. But that plus or minus half a foot, so a range of 16.3 to 16.8 is probably more fair.

That expectation is based on prior experience and computer modeling, and it could be altered by tomorrow morning, she said.

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I should note that were already at minor flood stage, she said Tuesday morning, and this will be a new record based on all of the information that we have.

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Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold an Alaskan summit over Ukraine on Friday.

The last U.S. summit held in Anchorage was between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in March 2021. It turned into a public spectacle, with both sides firing off angry charges and counter-charges. Will this summit be more productive?

One way to anticipate the possible outcomes is through considering a series of binary choices. Either one or both sides will leave the conference having achieved nothing, much like Trump being unable to persuade North Korea's Kim Jung Un to denuclearize in June 2018 in Singapore. Or there will be an agreement of sorts or an agreement to agree in the future.

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Regarding any agreement, Munich 1938 and British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain's "peace in our time" will not easily be forgotten should Trump yield to Putin's demands.

Far more relevant was Trump's 2020 Doha Agreement with the Taliban that excluded the presence of the Afghan government and indeed led to the fall of the Ashraf Ghani administration in August 2021. In fact, it can be argued that Trump has carefully laid the framework for abandoning Ukraine and its feisty president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump's first meeting with Zelensky in the White House was an ambush. Zelensky was accused by Vice President JD Vance of not expressing sufficient gratitude for U.S. aid and support. Trump's views softened. But currently, he has given every indication that Zelensky must cede territory to Russia in any cease-fire or peace agreement.

More importantly, Trump has shifted the entire burden to NATO and the European Union of keeping Ukraine supplied with weaponry and money to sustain the war. The United States will happily sell its defense equipment to Europeans, who in turn will provide it to Ukraine.

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To America Firsters, this is brilliant. To many in Congress and in the public, it is an abandonment of an ally and a deeply flawed concession to Putin that the West will come to regret.

But the crucial questions are what do both presidents see as outcomes from this meeting? What is each prepared to concede? And what does this mean for the ending of the war and the killings Trump says he hates so much? Surprisingly, Putin's aims are clearer and are keeping with Lenin's strategy of "other means."

In simple terms, "other means" means that Putin is prepared to accept less than a full measure of his demands. That suggests he will retain Crimea while accepting certain "land swaps" of Ukrainian for Russian territory. Keeping Ukraine from joining NATO will be part of his terms although, Putin could accept the prospect of EU membership, as that will not be relevant given his likely next steps.

Obviously, the United States and West must provide security guarantees to maintain Ukraine as a sovereign independent state. Here the record is bleak. Neither the 1996 Budapest or the 2014/15 Minsk Agreements that provided for Ukraine's security worked -- all having failed miserably.

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Putin understands this. In the event of an agreement, Russia will pursue "other means" to gain greater control of Ukraine politically and even territorially. And Putin also could wait while his military is restored before launching a future reattack.

From Trump's perspective, walking away from Ukraine could make perfect sense. Trump has gone, in his mind, above and beyond trying to end the war. He has patiently negotiated with both sides. And despite his election promise to end the war in 24 hours, he will claim that was a purposeful exaggeration. Finally, having convinced Europe to become the ultimate supporter of Ukraine, Trump can argue he has done all he can. Now it is up to the warring factions to end the war.

Game, set and match -- or not. Still, Trump could take a harder line believing that if Putin is not stopped in Ukraine, Western Europe is next. However, it would be in Trump's interest if he recognizes that Putin lacks the reasons and the forces for an attack to the west and will not risk war with a far superior NATO military. If Trump reaches this conclusion, it reinforces why the United States need not be engaged any more in the Ukraine fight.

Left unsaid are sanctions. Would Trump accept pressure from Congress and 85 senators to impose sanctions on Russia and secondary sanctions on China? Probably not. But we shall find out later this week when or if the Ukraine war ends.

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 Trump administration is taking away California's backstop Trump-proofing tactic.

The Federal Trade Commission announced an agreement with four heavy-duty truck manufacturers and their trade association on Tuesday, declaring California's agreement with them to continue meeting the state's zero-emission sales targets "unenforceable."

With that, the Trump administration has kicked out one of the last remaining legs in California's strategy to protect its nation-leading climate regulations  its voluntary deals with industry.

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"The Commissions swift action will put the Clean Truck Partnership squarely in the rearview mirror and prevent repeats of CARBs troubling regulatory gambit, Taylor Hoogendoorn, the deputy director of the FTC's Bureau of Competition, said in a statement.

To recap: The California Air Resources Board signed a deal in 2023 with nine truck manufacturers to abide by California's rules "regardless of whether any other entity challenges Californias authority to set more stringent emissions standards under the federal Clean Air Act"  i.e., in case President Donald Trump returned to power and tried to dismantle the state's special authority to set stricter-than-federal vehicle rules, as he did during his first term (and as he did again in June).

On Monday, prior to the FTC's announcement, the companies ("original equipment manufacturers," or "OEMs" in industry parlance) filed a lawsuit in federal court in Sacramento, arguing that they didn't foresee this particular regulatory twist.

"The OEMs are in an impossible position," Daimler, Volvo, International Motors and PACCAR argued in Monday's suit. "The OEMs are subject to two sovereigns whose regulatory requirements are irreconcilable and who are openly hostile to one another. Each wields a hammer to enforce its will on industry, leaving OEMs  who simply seek to sell heavy-duty trucks in compliance with the law  unable to plan with the necessary certainty and clarity where their products need to be certified for sale and by which regulatory authority."

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Environmentalists say that argument, which came just days after the U.S. Justice Department sent a cease-and-desist letter to CARB, doesnt pass the smell test.

The Clean Truck Partnership was designed exactly for a moment like this, said Adam Zuckerman, senior clean vehicles campaigner with Public Citizens Climate Program.

CARB declined to comment on the litigation or the FTC's move. But a former CARB official who helped negotiate the 2023 deal said it represents a significant softening of California's regulatory hammer, especially after the loss of its EV sales mandate for light-duty vehicles.

"Its bad, former CARB deputy executive officer Craig Segall said about the potential impacts to the states pollution-reduction efforts. Theyre still going to sell some electric trucks, but it's somewhere between bupkis and inadequate.

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Its unclear how the other companies that signed on to the deal  including Cummins, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis  will react after not joining the lawsuit or being named in the FTC announcement. A spokesperson for Hino Motors declined to comment, while the other companies didnt respond immediately to requests for comment. The Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association, which joined the FTC agreement but not the lawsuit, also didnt respond.

California still has one of the companies on its side, at least in the light-duty sector. Stellantis, which inked a deal last year to follow the state's EV sales rules even if they went away, reaffirmed its commitment in June after Trump signed a resolution revoking the EPA waiver California needs to enforce it.

Segall argued that the four truck makers retreat from their ZEV commitments wont stop a long-term global trend towards zero-emission models that will benefit California. He said the state still has tools at its disposal, like offering incentives for companies and fleets that buy electric trucks, and excluding those who dont.

It's not like there's any statute making California buy from these [companies], or any statute requiring it to provide particular incentives to them, Segall said.

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California could put that plan into action soon. State agencies are supposed to deliver recommendations for bolstering the EV market to Newsoms office this week, after the governor signed a June executive order that directed CARB to start developing new regulations and suggested the state offer preferential treatment to companies that continue to work towards electrification goals.

Alex Guillen contributed to this story.

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Anxiety and fear are among the main reasons that kids in America skipped school last year.

In a new survey of more than 1,000 parents across the U.S., nearly a third said their child missed more than a week of school due to mental health reasons.

Roughly two out of five students said they did not feel physically well enough to attend classes and one in five said they were too exhausted to go to school, the parents told pollsters from the The Kids Mental Health Foundation.

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Since the pandemic, the number of kids who have missed 10 percent or more of days in the school year has nearly doubled, rising to more than 14 million in 2021-2022, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Thats more than two weeks out of a typical 180-day school year. AAP says absenteeism is linked to poor academic performance and sets kids behind their peers.

Along with anxiety, children cite a range of reasons for missing school including learning differences, perfectionism, bullying, grief, toxic authority figures, and feeling unsafe at school.

Ohio mom Kelley McChristy waves goodbye to her sons before school. McChristy and other parents have been dealing with school avoidance. (The Kids Mental Health Foundation)

Kelley McChristy, a mother of two boys in Columbus, Ohio, has been affected by school avoidance.

Its important to recognize that there are a lot of physical symptoms that manifest in kids that are really related to mental health, McChristy said in a statement.

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When a child says, I'm sick, I'm not feeling well, and you can't find a reason for it, it could be related to anxiety.

The survey, published Tuesday, highlights what is known as school avoidance or school refusal  when a student experiences distress about going to school on a regular basis.

It may be a sign of emotional distress and is considered to be a symptom associated with other mental health disorders, according to the School Avoidance Alliance and National Institutes of Health. Those disorders include social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

As many as 28 percent of children experience school avoidance and its most common between the ages of 10 and 13, and for those transitioning to different schools.

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Teenagers are also worrying about school gun violence, separate research and surveys have shown. School shootings dropped to 330 incidents last year but were only slightly below the all-time high of 349 in 2023, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database. Guns remain a leading cause of death for children and teenagers, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Texas children pose with signs following a deadly school shooting in Uvalde in 2022. Many children are worrying about school gun violence (AFP via Getty Images)

Understanding why kids dont want to attend school is key to addressing the issue, experts say.

I see this clinically all the time. Kids feel anxious. They don't want to go. They're in distress. And as parents, we want to protect them. We don't want our kids to be in distress, and so the parent decides to keep them home, Dr. Ariana Hoet, executive clinical director of The Kids Mental Health Foundation and a pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Childrens, said.

The problem with that is the more we avoid things that make us anxious, the bigger the anxiety gets. And so, a parent feels like they're doing the right thing by giving their child a mental health day or keeping them home, but really that's just going to make the anxiety grow, she added.

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So, what should parents do? Treatment options include talk therapy that may help a child face their fears and whats making them anxious about going to school. Medications and parent-teacher interventions may also be necessary, the NIH says. Parents can also talk to others whove experienced similar challenges with their children.

I have been shocked by the amount of people that I've talked to whose children are going through the same thing, McChristy said.
A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that Arkansas can enforce its 2021 ban on gender-affirming care for minors, reversing a lower court decision that struck down the first-in-the-nation law as unconstitutional and following a June Supreme Court decision.

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Tuesday that a federal district court had erred in striking down Arkansass Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act in 2023. U.S. District Judge Jay Moody ruled at the time that the law, adopted by the state Legislature in 2021 after former Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) vetoed it, discriminates against transgender people and poses immediate and irreparable harm to trans youth.

In its decision, the 8th Circuit said Moodys ruling conflicts with the Supreme Courts decision in U.S. v. Skrmetti, which found that a similar law banning gender-affirming care for minors in Tennessee does not discriminate on the basis of sex.

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Because the district court rested its permanent injunction on incorrect conclusions of law, it abused its discretion, Judge Duane Benton, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, wrote in Tuesdays order. The judgment is reversed and the case remanded for proceedings consistent with this opinion.

Four families of transgender children and two doctors challenged Arkansass law in 2021, arguing that it violates their constitutional rights.

Holly Dickson, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas, one of the groups representing the plaintiffs in court, called Tuesdays decision a tragically unjust result for transgender Arkansans, their doctors, and their families.

The state had every opportunity and failed at every turn to prove that this law helps children; in fact, this is a dangerous law that harms children, Dickson said in a statement on Tuesday. The organization is considering its next steps, she said.

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Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin (R) applauded Tuesdays ruling, writing on the social platform X that he is pleased that children in Arkansas will be protected from experimental procedures.

Griffin announced immediately after the Supreme Court issued its ruling in Skrmetti on June 18 that the decision had positive implications for Arkansass appeal to the 8th Circuit, because our law is similar to Tennessees law.

Twenty-seven states have banned the use of certain prescription medications and rare surgeries to treat gender dysphoria in minors since Arkansas passed its first-in-the-nation prohibition in 2021. In July, Puerto Rico became the first U.S. territory to ban gender-affirming care for youth, restricting treatment for anyone younger than 21, the islands age of majority.

With Arkansas now able to enforce its ban, only Montanas law restricting transition-related care for minors remains blocked by court orders, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit tracking LGBTQ laws. A district court judge struck down the states 2023 law in May, finding the measure violates the Montana Constitution.

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Tuesdays decision comes as the federal government also looks to broaden its approach to limiting access to gender-affirming care for minors, one of President Trumps campaign promises.

An executive order Trump signed in January during his first days back in office states the U.S. will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called transition of a child from one sex to another, and it will rigorously enforce all laws that prohibit or limit these destructive and life-altering procedures.

In May, Trumps Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) broke with major medical groups, which have said gender-affirming care for trans youths and adults is medically necessary, in an unsigned report declaring there is a lack of robust evidence to support providing such care to minors. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called for providers and medical boards to update treatment protocols to align with the departments report, which recommends greater reliance on psychotherapy over medical interventions.

The Department of Justice, the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission are also investigating providers of gender-affirming care, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is expected to announce a proposal to bar funding for hospitals or clinics that offer transition care to minors.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 upheld an Arkansas law prohibiting doctors from providing gender transition medical treatment to minors, reversing a lower court decision that blocked the first-in-the-nation law.

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 8-2 on Tuesday to overturn a lower court decision, now allowing the state to enforce the law. The appeals court cited the U.S. Supreme Court decision in June upholding a similar ban in Tennessee, in which the nation's highest court ruled that the law was constitutional and did not discriminate against transgender people.

Referencing the Supreme Court's decision, the appeals court agreed with Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, a Republican, that the law did not violate transgender minors' equal protection rights under the U.S. Constitution.

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"I applaud the courts decision and am pleased that children in Arkansas will be protected from experimental procedures," Griffin said in a statement following the ruling.

Federal Court Rejects Challenge To Oklahoma Law Banning Gender Transition Treatment For Minors

A federal appeals court has upheld an Arkansas law prohibiting doctors from providing gender transition medical treatment to minors.

Arkansas Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders wrote on social media that the ruling "is a win for common sense -- and for our kids."

Read On The Fox News App

Arkansas became the first U.S. state to ban transgender treatments such as puberty blockers, hormones and surgery for minors in 2021, when the Republican-led legislature passed the ban after they overruled the veto of then-GOP Gov. Asa Hutchinson.

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Four families of transgender children and two doctors challenged the law, arguing the Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act violated parents' due process rights under the U.S. Constitution's Fourteenth Amendment.

Writing the majority opinion, U.S. Circuit Judge Duane Benton said parents have never had a right to obtain medical treatment for their children that a state government had banned.

Four families of transgender children and two doctors challenged the law in 2021.

The judge also wrote that the lower court's decision, in which U.S. District Judge Jay Moody ruled in 2023 that the law discriminates against transgender people and poses "immediate and irreparable harm" to transgender children, conflicts with the Supreme Courts decision in the Tennessee case. The law was also previously blocked from taking effect in 2021.

U.S. Circuit Judge Jane Kelly, meanwhile, wrote in the dissent that there is a "startling lack of evidence connecting Arkansas' ban on gender-affirming care with its purported goal of protecting children."

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The American Civil Liberties Union and the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas were among the groups representing the plaintiffs.

Scotus Rules On State Ban On Gender Transition 'Treatments' For Minors In Landmark Case

Arkansas Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the ruling "a win for common sense - and for our kids."

"This is a tragically unjust result for transgender Arkansans, their doctors, and their families," Holly Dickson, executive director of the ACLU of Arkansas, said in a statement.

"The state had every opportunity and failed at every turn to prove that this law helps children; in fact, this is a dangerous law that harms children," she continued. "The law has already had a profound impact on families across Arkansas who all deserve a fundamental right to do what is best for their children. As we and our clients consider our next steps, we want transgender Arkansans to know they are far from alone and we remain as determined as ever to secure their right to safety, dignity, and equal access to the health care they need."

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The ruling on Tuesday comes after the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously last week that a similar ban in Oklahoma is constitutional, also relying upon the Supreme Court's decision on the Tennessee law.

Reuters contributed to this report.





Original article source: Appeals court allows Arkansas' first-in-the-nation ban on gender transition care for minors to be enforced
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- A federal appeals court has ruled that Arkansas may enforce its ban on minors receiving gender-affirming care, overturning a lower court's decision that found the law unconstitutional.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit issued its ruling Tuesday, stating the lower court erred in June 2023 when it struck down Arkansas' Save Adolescents From Experimentation Act for violating the First Amendment and both the 14th Amendment's Equal Protection Clause and Due Process Clause.

It said the lower court's ruling was incongruent with a recent Supreme Court decision that upheld Tennessee's gender-affirming care ban for minors.

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"Because the district court rested its permanent injunction on incorrect conclusions of law, it abused its discretion," the appeals court ruled.

Arkansas' Republican attorney general, Tim Griffin, celebrated the ruling.

"I applaud the court's decision recognizing that Arkansas has a compelling interest in protecting the physical and psychological health of children and am pleased that children in Arkansas will be protected from risky, experimental procedures with lifelong consequences," he said in a statement.

Gender-affirming care includes a range of therapies, from psychological, behavioral and medical interventions with surgeries for minors being exceedingly rare. The medical practice has been endorsed by every medical association.

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Despite the evidence and the support of the medical community, Republicans and conservatives, often with the use of misinformation, have been targeting gender-affirming care amid a larger push threatening the rights of the LGBTQ community.

Arkansas passed the SAVE Act in 2021, but then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson vetoed it that same year, calling the ban a "product of the cultural war in America" that would interfere with the doctor-patient relationship. The GOP-majority legislature then overrode his veto, making Arkansas the first state to pass a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors in the United States.

Four transgender minors and their parents then challenged the law, saying it violated their rights, resulting in the 2023 ruling overturning the ban, which marked a victory in the fight for LGBTQ healthcare until Tuesday.

"This is a tragically unjust result for transgender Arkansans, their doctors and their families," Holly Dickson, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas, said in a statement.

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"As we and our clients consider our next steps, we want transgender Arkansans to know they are far from alone and we remain as determined as ever to secure their right to safety, dignity and equal access to the healthcare they need."

The ruling comes as Republicans seeking to restrict transgender healthcare have gained a support in the White House with President Donald Trump who has implemented several federal policies that align with their efforts.

On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order making it federal policy that there are only two genders, male and female, both of which were determined at "conception." He has also banned transgender Americans from the military and has sought to bar transgender athletes from competing on teams and in competitions that align with their gender identity.

Twenty-six states and the territory of Puerto Rico have banned gender-affirming care for minors, according to the Movement Advancement Project.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury)

A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that a group of veterans and labor unions were not entitled to a preliminary injunction that would have blocked DOGE access to their sensitive personal records.

The ruling, by a divided three-judge panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, affirms the same courts decision in April, when it lifted an injunction by the U.S. District Court for Maryland that had temporarily blocked access to the personal records as a potential invasion of privacy.

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The circuit court said the plaintiffs in the case  six veterans and five professional organizations  had not shown that they would suffer actual harm if their personal information was shared with officials from DOGE, the Department of Government Efficiency set up by President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, supposedly to ferret out government waste.

Tuesdays ruling in American Federation of Teachers v. Scott Bessent marked the second time this summer that the Trump administration has successfully gone to court to lift an injunction in a case out of Maryland that would have stalled DOGE access to personal records.

The U.S. Supreme Court in June granted a stay in a nearly identical case  Social Security Administration v. AFSCME  on similar grounds, ruling that the government, not the plaintiffs, would be harmed if DOGE workers were denied access to government records while the case proceeded through the courts.

In a sharply worded dissent to the June order, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson said the government failed to show that it would be harmed by letting the injunction stay in place while the case was heard, beyond the fact that it cannot be bothered to wait for the litigation process to play out before it proceeds as it wishes. Granting the stay would give DOGE access to what Jackson called a repository of millions of Americans legally protected, highly sensitive information that  if improperly handled or disseminated  risks causing significant harm.

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Today the Court grants emergency relief that allows the Social Security Administration (SSA) to hand DOGE staffers the highly sensitive data of millions of Americans, Jackson wrote in the June 6 order.

The most recent case involves records in the Treasury, the Department of Education and the Office of Personnel Management, each of which was working to provide DOGE with access to government records on individuals, under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on his first day in office.

The agencies were sued by AFT, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees, the National Association of Federal Employees, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers and six individual veterans. They claimed that they or their members have personally identifiable information housed in the agencies databases and  that disclosing the information to the agencies DOGE-affiliated employees would violate both the Privacy Act and the Administrative Procedure Act.

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They sought a preliminary injunction to keep the agencies from granting DOGE access to the records while the case was pending. U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman agreed, issuing the injunction on March 24.

But the circuit court this week disagreed. It said a preliminary injunction is an extraordinary remedy that should be granted only when the plaintiffs can show that they are likely to prevail on all of the issues they raise, and said the plaintiffs here failed to do so.

In particular, the appellate panel said it was not clear the plaintiffs had standing to sue, since they had not shown a concrete injury from release of their information to DOGE officials. And their claim that sharing the data violates the Privacy Act ignores the fact that the act allows records to be shared intra-agency with those officers and employees of the agency  who have a

need for the record in the performance of their duties.'

DOGE employees would have had such a need, wrote Judge Julius Richardson for the panel, in order to carry out the broad and open-ended duty in the executive order that they improve the quality and efficiency of government-wide software, network infrastructure, and information technology (IT) systems.

Richardson was careful to note that we do not hold with certainty that Plaintiffs lack standing or that the Privacy Act does not apply or that any of their other claims will fail on closer inspection.

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We instead come to a statistically surer conclusion: that Plaintiffs have failed, by a decent margin, to show that they will likely prevail on all of these issues combined, Richardson wrote. The district court abused its discretion in finding that Plaintiffs were likely to prevail on each one, and with such certainty that they were likely to succeed overall.

The appeals court sent the case back to Boardman for further consideration.

In a dissent, Judge Roger King said Boardmans original injunction was limited and well-reasoned, temporarily limiting access to information that includes Social Security numbers, income and assets, federal tax records, disciplinary and other personnel actions, physical and mental health histories, drivers license information, bank account numbers, and demographic and family details.

King wrote in April that Boardmans injunction halted what appears to be the illegal intra-governmental disclosure of highly sensitive personal information. Even a momentary lapse in the preliminary injunction preventing that disclosure could irreparably harm the plaintiffs by granting unfettered, unauthorized access to the highly sensitive personal data of millions of Americans, including veterans.

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He said Tuesday that the majority was right to say a preliminary injunction requires a high bar, but that it erred when it conjures up an even higher one that the district court could not meet.

Contrary to the panel majority, the district court did exactly what it was obliged to do, King wrote. Specifically, in its thorough and cogent Opinion, the district court separately assessed the plaintiffs likelihood of success on the contested merits issues and determined that they were likely to prevail and should be granted an injunction.

Requests for comment from attorneys and parties on both sides of the case were not immediately returned Tuesday.
The Indiana Court of Appeals overturned two misdemeanors Tuesday in an Illinois womans burglary case.

Appeals Judge L. Mark Bailey wrote there was no evidence to support Anissa Cooperwoods misdemeanor convictions for theft and criminal mischief.

However, he left her main Level 3 felony burglary conviction intact.

Cooperwood, 31, of Hazel Crest, was charged after going with a friend and a third person on Oct. 14, 2020, to get some stuff back from a womans home after a breakup. The situation quickly deteriorated after the man took the womans phone.

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Appeals Court Judge Elaine Brown dissented in part, writing Cooperwood could have stayed in the car, but chose to actively participate and was the getaway driver.

The state of Indiana can appeal the case.

mcolias@post-trib.com
A federal appeals court has reversed a lower court's ruling, clearing the way for the Trump administration to cut billions in foreign aid funding this year.

In a 2-1 decision Wednesday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit overruled a lower court's decision that prohibited the Trump administration from making drastic cuts to USAID funding that had already approved by Congress.

The court sidestepped the substantive question of whether the cuts were constitutional, instead deciding that the nonprofits that sued the Trump administration lacked the standing to bring a case.

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MORE: Supreme Court rules Trump administration must unfreeze foreign aid payments

Judges Karen Henderson and Gregory Katsas -- appointed by Presidents George H. W. Bush and Donald Trump, respectively -- determined that only the head of the Government Accountability Office has the authority to sue under the Impoundment Control Act.

"The district court erred in granting that relief because the grantees lack a cause of action to press their claims," the majority wrote.

The lawsuit over USAID funding had been one of the first major legal successes for nonprofits challenging the Trump administration, which ordered the suspension of grants that didn't comply with the president's priorities.

Ezra Acayan/Getty Images - PHOTO: The USAID logo is seen on a machine that processes recycled plastic into construction blocks at the Pasig Eco Hub, a project impacted by the Trump administration's freeze on foreign aid, on March 10, 2025, in Pasig, Metro Manila, Philippines.

After U.S. District Judge Amir Ali issued a temporary restraining order in February blocking Trump's executive order from taking effect, both the D.C. circuit court and the United States Supreme Court sided with the nonprofits, denying a request from the Trump administration to block an order enforcing the TRO.

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In a dissenting opinion issued with Wednesday's ruling, Judge Florence Pan, a Biden appointee, criticized her colleagues for ignoring the concern that the funding cuts were unconstitutional and thus harmed "the rule of law and the very structure of our government."

"At bottom, the court's acquiescence in and facilitation of the Executive's unlawful behavior derails the 'carefully crafted system of checked and balanced power' that serves as the 'greatest security against tyranny -- the accumulation of excessive authority in a single Branch," she wrote.
(The Center Square)  A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that the Trump administration can cut billions of dollars in foreign aid that had been appropriated by Congress.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled 2-1 in the White Houses favor, finding the lawsuit brought forth by aid organizations lacked the legal right to challenge President Donald Trumps actions.

In a day-one executive order, Trump directed the U.S. Agency for International Development to freeze foreign aid payments, a move that was eventually blocked by a district judge in March. Wednesdays ruling reversed the district judges decision and allows the Trump administration to proceed in its plans to significantly shrink U.S. assistance abroad.

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The aid groups who filed the lawsuit claimed the White House did not have authority to block funds appropriated by the legislative branch. In its decision Wednesday, the appeals court avoided the question of constitutionality and rather ruled on the grounds that the groups lacked legal authority to sue.

U.S. Circuit Judge Karen Henderson, appointed by former President George H.W. Bush, wrote on behalf of the majority.

The district court erred in granting that relief because the grantees lack a cause of action to press their claims, Henderson wrote.

The courts decision stated that while the nonprofits do not have sufficient cause to sue the Trump administration over its cuts to foreign aid, Congress legislative watchdog does have the legal authority to do so. The court said the 1974 Impoundment Control Act gives the legislative branchs Government Accountability Office power to challenge Trumps actions if it chooses to do so.

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Judge Florence Pan, an appointee of former President Joe Biden, dissented. She argued that the president does not have authority to rescind money allocated by the legislative branch.

The courts holding that the grantees have no constitutional cause of action is as startling as it is erroneous, Pan said. The majority holds that when the president refuses to spend funds appropriated by Congress based on policy disagreements, that is merely a statutory violation and raises no constitutional alarm bells.
From left: Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, Elm Springs Republican Rep. Robin Lundstrum and Lonsdale Republican Sen. Alan Clark spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, praising a federal appeals court's decision to uphold Arkansas' ban on gender-affirming health care for transgender minors. Lundstrum and Clark were the lead sponsors of the 2021 law that was blocked in court before it could go into effect. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)

A federal appeals court lifted the injunction on Arkansas law banning transgender minors health care, clearing the way Tuesday for it to be enforced after four years.

The 8-2 ruling from the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals came after Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffins office asked the court last month to take into account the U.S. Supreme Courts June decision to uphold Tennessees similar law. Federal judges previously enjoined both the Tennessee and Arkansas laws.

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The Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act, or Act 626 of 2021, banned puberty blockers, hormones and gender-affirming surgeries for Arkansas children with gender dysphoria. Four families of transgender minors challenged the law, and U.S. District Judge James Moody blocked it in July 2021 before it could go into effect.

Several months after an eight-day trial over the law, Moody ruled it was unconstitutional on First and Fourteenth Amendment grounds in June 2023.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Arkansas represented the plaintiffs in the case. Executive Director Holly Dickson called Tuesdays ruling tragically unjust and the SAFE Act a dangerous law that harms children in a news release.

As we and our clients consider our next steps, we want transgender Arkansans to know they are far from alone and we remain as determined as ever to secure their right to safety, dignity, and equal access to the health care they need, Dickson said.

Griffin lauded the ruling in his own news release.

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I applaud the courts decision recognizing that Arkansas has a compelling interest in protecting the physical and psychological health of children and am pleased that children in Arkansas will be protected from risky, experimental procedures with lifelong consequences, Griffin said.

The courts opinion

After the state appealed Moodys ruling, the U.S. 8th Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in the case last year in St. Louis.

In June, the appeals court asked both sides for supplemental briefs in light of the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling on the Tennessee law. The plaintiffs brief asked the appeals court to send the case back to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Tuesdays ruling granted this request.

Both sides asked the court for rational-basis review, which means analyzing whether a law is rationally related to a legitimate governmental interest. The standard is less rigid than strict scrutiny, which analyzes whether a law is narrowly tailored to a governmental interest.

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The SAFE Act prohibits medical care on the basis of sex, in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, Moody wrote in his 80-page ruling. He also wrote that the rational basis test does not apply when a classification is based upon sex.

The appeals court disagreed, stating in its 35-page opinion that the SAFE Act classifies based on age and medical procedure, not sex and regulates a class of procedures, not people.

Moody also ruled that the SAFE Act violated the Fourteenth Amendments right to due process because the state did not provide sufficient evidence to support its claim that gender-affirming medical care is unsafe for minors.

USCA-OPINION-081225

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The parent plaintiffs asserted that the law infringed upon their right to make informed decisions about their childrens medical care, but parents do not have unlimited authority to make medical decisions for their children, the appeals court stated.

The court also disputed Moodys claim that the SAFE Act violated the First Amendment right to freedom of speech by prohibiting physicians from referring patients to other health care professionals for gender-affirming care. Moody called this an unconstitutional content and viewpoint-based regulation.

U.S. Supreme Court precedent allows states to regulate professional conduct that incidentally includes speech, and the laws use of the word refer should be applied narrowly to a formal medical referral rather than the broad interpretation of merely informing patients about the availability of procedures, according to the appeals courts opinion.

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Responses

The appeals court has yet to issue a mandate for the state to enforce the SAFE Act, but Griffin said at a Tuesday press conference that he expects the order within the next couple of weeks.

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State Rep. Robin Lundstrum and Sen. Alan Clark, the primary sponsors of the SAFE Act, joined Griffin at the press conference. Lundstrum, an Elm Springs Republican, thanked the conservative Family Council for its support of the SAFE Act, and the organization called Tuesdays ruling amazing news in a news release stating that it expects the law to be enforced.

Lundstrum praised her fellow lawmakers for supporting the law, which had 64 cosponsors in the 135-member Legislature, and for voting to override then-Gov. Asa Hutchinsons veto.

They put their political futures at risk by saying children are more important than politics, Lundstrum said.

Arkansas was the first state in the U.S. to ban gender-affirming health care for transgender minors, and 26 more states followed suit, including Tennessee. Officials in both states have claimed transgender health care for minors is rooted in activism and experimentation rather than evidence-based science. Lundstrum and Clark, a Lonsdale Republican, repeated these sentiments Tuesday.

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Clark cited his experience as a former youth pastor as a reason not to affirm gender dysphoria instead of doing the real psychological work to determine the root of a childs dysphoria.

Teenagers believe one thing one day and one thing the next day, Clark said.

Lundstrum said she introduced the 2021 legislation after hearing from grandparents concerned about their grandchildren and has been asked consistently in the past four years when the law will go into effect.

The adults are walking back in the room on this issue and saying We dont chemically or surgically castrate a child, she said.

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Two physicians who have treated transgender minors at Arkansas Childrens Hospital are among the plaintiffs challenging the SAFE Act. They testified at trial in 2022 that they do not perform breast or genital surgeries on transgender minors or refer them for such procedures elsewhere.

Arkansas Childrens did not respond to a request for comment about the ruling Tuesday.

One parent of each of the four minor plaintiffs shared their experiences with their childrens gender transitions at the trial. Three of the four minors have since turned 18. The fourth, Brooke Dennis, is 13 years old. The Dennis family has moved from Bentonville to another state in which Brookes health care is not in jeopardy, according to court documents.

In 2023, the Legislature passed the Protecting Minors from Medical Malpractice Act, which created a 15-year window for malpractice lawsuits against doctors who provide transgender minors with any of the same treatments the SAFE Act sought to ban. A 2025 law added mental health care professionals to the list of providers that can be sued under the 2023 law.

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An effort to create civil liability for Arkansas adults who assist transgender minors transitions failed to advance in the Legislature after lawmakers, Griffins office and members of the public expressed free speech concerns in March.

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PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  For the second time in about a month, a trio of appellate court judges held that a McLean County judge improperly denied a person the ability to remain free pending trial.

In fact, the judges from the 4th District Appellate Court in Springfield noted the two cases were strikingly similar in both the nature of the charges, the facts of the case and the decision by Circuit Judge J. Jason Chambers.

In a nine-page page order released Tuesday, the appellate panel found the judge improperly held Steve Adma, 21, of Galesburg, as there was no evidence that nothing could be done to mitigate his threat to the community.

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Instead, the order, penned by Judge Peter Cavanagh with Judges Eugene Doherty and Raylene Grischow concurring, found McLean County prosecutors failed to prove with clear and convincing evidence that Adma is a threat to the community as a whole

Adma was arrested in January along with five others during a human trafficking sting by the Illinois State Police. The other men all face similar charges and one of those men, Khalid Mohamed Farah, was the person the appellate panel referred in their order this week.

Almost a month ago, they ordered him to have another hearing  like they did for Adma  to consider what conditions must be put in place to insure the publics safety and that they will appear in court.

Adam was arrested and later charged in January on several counts including grooming and indecent assault of a child. Prosecutors asked Chambers to hold him in custody pending trial.

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Since Illinois abolished cash bail under the SAFE-T Act, such hearings  akin to a mini trial  are held daily across the state. Many charges are not eligible for detention and when a person is found to be eligible, prosecutors must show a judge why the presumption for release should be overcome.

Adma had originally been granted pretrial release earlier this year when, in February, the state asked the court to take another look at the release, stating they hadnt taken into consideration two traffic violations he had, according to the order.

The court agreed to take a second look and set a date in March for the matter to come back for a second look. Adma, however, allegedly didnt show up, and a warrant for his arrest was issued.

He was later caught in Indiana and brought back to Bloomington, where Chambers decided he needed to remain in jail until his trial.

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In finding Chambers made a mistake, the judges laid out a three prongs to their reasoning

First, they held Chambers said Adma posed a threat to the community at large, specifically those under the age of 18.

But the panel said that wasnt not enough to hold someone, as its such a broad finding. Under that thinking, they wrote, anyone who is accused of a sex crime against a minor would have to automatically be held because the statement is so universally true.

The second prong was Adma had no prior history except for a few traffic violations. And finally, the prosecutors didnt prove he was a threat to the community or if there were specific threats at any one person.

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Lastly, there was no specific, individualized evidence showing the defendant posed a threat, let alone the nature of the threat he posed, to the community, Cavanagh wrote.

He is next scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 29. If convicted, Adma faces up to five years in prison.

Farah has since been released from custody and is slated to appear in court in October. The other four cases are still pending.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com.
Israel's GPO denounced NYT's interview as "glossing over" key moments in Zubeidi's career, including how his re-arrest in 2019 was due to ties with terror attacks, not an amnesty breach.

Palestinian terrorist Zakaria Zubeidi, who was freed from an Israeli prison in February in exchange for hostages held by terrorists in the Gaza Strip, spoke to The New York Times in an interview published on Tuesday.

The interview, which the outlet describes as "his first major interview as a free man," describes Zubeidi as "emblematic" of a "sense of hopelessness that imbues Palestinian life."

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Zubeidi joined Fatah's al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades (AAMB) during the Second Intifada, rising through the ranks to eventually become the leader of AAMB's Jenin cell, making him one of the most senior terrorists in the West Bank.

However, Zubeidi claimed that his life as a terror leader proved "ultimately futile" in helping to found a Palestinian state. "We have to reconsider our tools...we tried cultural resistance...we tried the rifle, we tried shooting. There's no solution." Zubeidi said.

The New York Times reported that Zubeidi was offered an amnesty in 2007, along with hundreds of other terrorists, as then-Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert pushed towards his peace plan, which was eventually rejected by the Palestinian Authority.

The report claims that Zubeidi was re-arrested in 2019 after "breaking the terms of his amnesty," however, Israel's Government Press Office refuted this, stating that Zubeidi was sent back to prison after "his involvement in a series of shooting attacks against buses," with a rap sheet which included "Attempted murder; Contact with a hostile organization; and Conspiracy to murder."

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Zubeidi instituted a jail break, and was recaptured within six days while awaiting trial in 2021.

"It was impossible for me to be imprisoned and not seek freedom," he said. "The prisoner who does not think about escaping prison does not deserve freedom."

"There is no peaceful solution and there is no military solution," Zubeidi told The New York Times, adding, "Because the Israelis dont want to give us anything."

Previous statements regarding Zubeidi

In January, Zubeidi spoke to Sky News, when he asserted that "resistance will lead us to freedom."

Zubeidi, who was found guilty of terrorism by an Israeli court in 2019, told Sky News that he blames the international community for Israels continued presence in the West Bank. The released terrorist admitted to being involved in a bombing attack in 2002, which killed six people.

Zakaria Zubeidi (L) with Mahmoud Abbas (R) during the latter's campaign to replace recently-deceased Yasser Arafat as Palestinian Authority president, December 30, 2004. (credit: REUTERS/Saeed Dahlah SHE/AA)

"My life is worthless without freedom," he said, speaking in Ramallah. "Freedom has no price. But the world that has denied me my freedom - particularly Britain, France, and the United States - must return what they have taken from me and my children.

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"They are the ones who need to reconsider their mistakes, not me. They are the ones who have wronged us, and they should think about rectifying the harm they have caused to me and my children."

Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Zubeidi that if he makes one mistake, he will "meet old friends," in a press statement in February.

"Zakaria Zubaidi, you were released in an agreement for the release of Israeli hostages - one mistake, and you are going to meet old friends. We will not accept support for terrorism."

Zubeidi's son, Mohammed, was killed in Israeli airstrikes in September 2024.

Who is Zakaria Zubeidi?

Zakaria Muhammad Abd al-Rahman al-Zubeidi was born in 1976 in Jenin to a family of nine.

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From a young age, he was involved in conflicts with the Israeli military, including being shot by soldiers after throwing stones at civilian vehicles, which he claimed caused him a lasting limp.

At 14, he was imprisoned for six months and later sentenced to four and a half years for throwing a Molotov cocktail. While serving his first sentence, he was recruited by Fatah. After his release, he joined the Palestinian police, worked as a builder in Tel Aviv, and drove a truck in Jenin.

Following the death of his mother by IDF gunfire and his brother's death during Operation Defensive Shield in 2002, he turned to terrorism, joining Fatah's terrorist groups and fighting against the Israeli army during the operation.

Eventually, he joined AAMB. He was then responsible for a series of terrorist attacks, including many in the Samaria region, such as shooting at Israeli vehicles and, eventually, a suicide bombing at a Likud branch in Beit Shean, where six people were killed.

Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report
DNA recovered from skeletons buried in a 7th-century cemetery on the south coast of England has revealed that the buried individuals had west African ancestry, raising further questions about early medieval migrations to Europe.

Archaeologists documented significant migration during this period into England from continental northern Europe, with historical accounts describing the settlement of Angles, Saxons, and Jutes.

However, the extent of movement from further afield has remained unclear.

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To further understand early medieval migration in Europe, researchers performed DNA analysis on individuals buried at two 7th-century cemeteries on Englands south coast  at Updown in Kent, and Worth Matravers in Dorset.

The findings, published in two studies in the journal Antiquity, show clear signs of non-European ancestry in two buried individuals with an affinity to present-day groups living in sub-Saharan west Africa.

Human skeletal remains in a double burial at the Worth Matravers cemetery, along with the anchor stone found underneath the older individuals head (Lilian Ladle, Ceiridwen J. Edwards, Antiquity (2025))

While most of the individuals buried at the cemeteries had either northern European or western British and Irish ancestry, one person at each cemetery had a recent ancestor from west Africa, scientists said.

Kent has always been a conduit for influence from the adjacent continent, and this was particularly marked in the 6th century  what might be termed Kents Frankish Phase, said Duncan Sayer, an author of one of the studies, from the University of Lancashire.

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Updown is also located near the royal centre of Finglesham, indicating that these connections were part of a wider royal network, Dr Sayer added.

In contrast, Dorset was on the fringes of continental influence, researchers said.

The archaeological evidence suggests a marked and notable cultural divide between Dorset and areas to the west, and the Anglo-Saxon-influenced areas to the east, said Ceiridwen J Edwards, one of the authors of the other study, from the University of Huddersfield.

The individuals showed clear signs of non-European ancestry, and an affinity with present-day Yoruba, Mende, Mandenka, and Esan groups from sub-Saharan west Africa, the study noted. Further DNA analysis revealed that they were of mixed descent, with each having one paternal grandparent from west Africa.

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The Updown grave was found to contain several goods, including a pot likely imported from Frankish Gaul, and a spoon hinting at the individuals Christian faith or connections with the Byzantine empire.

The cemetery was part of Kents royal network, and these grave goods and genetic indicators point to the regions continental connections, the study noted.

Grave 47 at Updown: photograph and adjacent grave plan show the positioning of the body and grave goods (Antiquity (2025))

The other individual at the Worth Matravers grave site was buried alongside a male with British ancestry, and an anchor made of local limestone.

The fact that the individuals were buried along with typical members of their communities indicates that they were valued locally, archaeologists noted.

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What is fascinating about these two individuals is that this international connection is found in both the east and west of Britain, said Dr Sayer. Updown is right in the centre of the early Anglo-Saxon cultural zone, and Worth Matravers, by contrast, is just outside its periphery in the sub-Roman west, he explained.

The findings, according to researchers, raise further questions about long-distance movement and demographic interaction in Britain during the early Middle Ages.

Our joint results emphasise the cosmopolitan nature of England in the early medieval period, pointing to a diverse population with far-flung connections who were, nonetheless, fully integrated into the fabric of daily life, Dr Edwards concluded.
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

Anti-Spanish Mayan rebels fled to Sak-Bahlanconsidered the last city of the Lacandon peoplecenturies ago.

Archaeologists believe they discovered the lost city in the Chiapas jungle of Mexico.

Past expeditions to locate the city failed, but predictive modeling helped find and map the land of the white jaguar.

Archaeologists have located Sak-Bahlanthe last city of the Lacandon rebels of Chiapasin the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. The city had been lost in the jungle following its abandonment 300 years ago, and had eluded both previous expeditions and (fortunately) most of the 17th- and 18th-century Spanish conquest.

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The independent outpost of the rebels (known as the land of the white jaguar) was finally discovered thanks to the use of Geographic Information Systems predictive modeling.

It was the most arduous field trip Ive ever had in my life, but, finally, we found the archaeological evidence, right at the spot I had marked, Josuhe Lozada Toledo, National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) Chiapas Center specialist, said in a translated statement.

The Maya people group known as the Lacandon lost their capital, Lacam-Tun (translated as great rock), to the Spanish in 1586, and retreated to Sak-Bahlan for just over 100 years of independent existence, according to historical records. The group lived undisturbed during that time, even as the Spanish searched for the site. But in 1695, Spanish Friar Pedro de la Concepcion found the stronghold by happenstance, and the Spanish soon took it over and renamed it Our Lady of Sorrows.

By 1721, however, anyone still living at the site had abandoned it, leaving it lost to the jungle of what is now the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. Efforts to relocate the site had since proven fruitlessuntil now.

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The new effort to locate the stronghold relied on predictive modeling based on information from historical documentsincluding a letter by Spanish friar Diego de Rivas written in 1698, which described a journey taken by a group of soldiers from the site.

Lozada Toledo and archaeologists Brent Woodfill and Yuko Shiratori knew the city was located on a plain surrounded by a bend in the Lacantun River. Lozada Toledo used GIS to reconstruct pre-Hispanic and historical communication routes of various Maya groups, supplementing the models with further layers of data.

Information from Friar de Rivas letter showed that the soldiers left Sak-Bahlan and walked four days to the Lacantun River. They then sailed for two days to arrive at El Encuentro de Cristo (where the tributary joins the Pasion River), and left their canoes to walk to Lake Peten Itza in Guatemala. From those places mentioned, which I had georeferenced, I made a conversion of the four days mentioned, from some point on the Lacantun River to Sak-Bahlan, Lozada Toledo said.

After accounting for a number of variablesincluding vegetation layers and how much each person was carryingLozada Toledo mapped an approximate range of where Sak-Bahlan should be located.

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The team discovered a site near the Mexico-Guatemala border full of stone structures, tools, ceramics, and even a Spanish church, Lozada Toledo told Spanish-language Milenioevidence that matched up with documents about the former Lacandon city. Theyd found it.

This discovery enriches the history of Chiapas and shows the dignity, identity, and strength of the native groups, Lozada Toledo told Milenio. It also highlights the archeology of ordinary people, their customs, their daily lives, and their struggle.

The effort, funded by the Discovery Channel and the focus of a documentary, is also chronicled in Chicomoztoc Magazine. There the researchers shared an article about the search, and wrote that it demonstrates the potential of technological tools to rediscover what time has hidden.

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August 13, 1925  R.H. Schumaker of the First National Bank of Bemidji was recently appointed as resident director of the State Teachers College. He will succeed A.P. White, who resigned some time ago upon leaving the city. Schumaker's appointment was made by Gov. Theodore Christianson.
Aug. 13WILKES-BARRE  Two forensic psychologists reached similar diagnoses of Hazle Township homicide suspect Reymer Gonzales who they say suffers from severe post traumatic stress and attention deficit disorders, but differ on how his criminal case should proceed.

Gonzales' attorney, Thomas C. Clemens of Philadelphia, is advocating to transfer his client's case to juvenile court while Luzerne County assistant district attorneys James L. McMonagle and Brian A. Coleman argue Gonzales should remain in adult court.

Arguments from the two opposing sides were made during a decertification hearing before Judge David W. Lupas on Wednesday.

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Whatever the outcome, Gonzales, of Hazleton, is 10 months shy of his 21st birthday when he ages out of juvenile justice rehabilitative programs.

Gonzales was 17 years, 10 months old, when he was charged by the Pennsylvania State Police at Hazleton for his alleged role in the fatal shooting of Rolando K. Cepeda, 18, outside an auto repair garage on West 23rd St., Hazle Township, on April 14, 2023.

Ismael Valdez-Batista, 20, who was the getaway driver, pleaded guilty to criminal attempt to commit criminal homicide in a plea agreement that calls for a sentence of 12 to 24 years. Valdez-Batista has not been sentenced.

A third suspect in the fatal shooting, Eliezer Santana, 19, remains at-large on criminal homicide charges.

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During Wednesday's hearing, Dr. William F. Anzalone testified for Clemens explaining his diagnosis of Gonzales as having severe post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse and anxiety.

Anzalone said by the time Gonzales turned 17, he had personally witnessed three friends be killed. In one of the tragedies, Gonzales suffered a gunshot wound to his buttocks when his friend, Stanley Jimson, 17, was fatally shot during a party at a house on South Wyoming Street, Hazleton, on March 6, 2022.

Hazleton police and county detectives charged Frangel Garcia Andujar, 24, in the fatal shooting of Jimson, and injuring Gonzales and three others, according to court records.

Anzalone testified Gonzales began to self-medicate with marijuana and became addicted to Percocet due to the gunshot wound to his buttocks.

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Anzalone further opined that juvenile justice programs will be greatly more beneficial for Gonzales compared to rehabilitative programs offered in state prisons.

Dr. Frank M. Dattilio, the forensic psychologist who testified for McMonagle and Coleman, testified Gonzales would benefit from programs in state prison due to his age.

While jailed at the county correctional facility without bail for the Cepeda fatal shooting, McMonagle and Coleman used Gonzales' alleged involvement with Andujar to intimidate a witness regarding the fatal shooting of Jimson.

McMonagle and Coleman argued Gonzales was competent to understand his involvement by connecting the witness with Andujar via a jailhouse phone call.

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Court records filed in the witness intimidation case say Andujar and Gonzales, despite being shot at the party, became friends while jailed at the county correctional facility.

Gonzales is facing charges of criminal homicide, aggravated assault and three counts of criminal conspiracy for the Cepeda fatal shooting, court records say.

The decertification hearing continues Wednesday afternoon.
Photo via Northern Arizona University

Amid a wave of litigation from the federal government seeking to end in-state tuition rates for undocumented students, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes says the decision by voters to make college more affordable for noncitizen students in the Grand Canyon State complies with federal law  insulating it against attacks from the Trump administration.

Just a few years ago, there was bipartisan support for the idea, but easing access to higher education for noncitizen students has become a target for Republicans  led by President Donald Trump  and is another facet of the GOP-controlled federal governments anti-immigrant agenda. For example, Karrin Taylor Robson, one of the leading contenders for the Republican gubernatorial nomination in 2026, endorsed the 2022 ballot measure, but last week said she backs Trumps executive order targeting undocumented students. Robson has been endorsed by Trump.

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In April, Trump issued an executive order singling out such policies as illegal and criticized them for favoring immigrants over citizens. Since then, the U.S. Department of Justice has filed lawsuits against Texas, Kentucky, Minnesota and Oklahoma challenging decades-old laws aimed at increasing access to higher education.

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Three years ago, Arizonans narrowly approved Proposition 308, eliminating restrictions on college tuition rates and state financial aid that forced many undocumented students who graduated from Arizona high schools to pay exorbitant amounts or forgo college altogether. The law allows any student, regardless of their citizenship status, to qualify for in-state tuition rates and state-funded scholarships if they have lived in Arizona and attended a local high school for at least two years and graduated, or received equivalent documentation from homeschooling.

More than 3,600 undocumented students graduate from Arizona high schools every year, and their ability to continue their education may depend on the laws future. In a legal opinion issued on Tuesday, Mayes appeared to allay fears about that future, writing that the law Prop. 308 created is perfectly legal. She concluded that the two federal laws the Trump administration has so far employed to challenge higher education access in other states cant be used to block the Arizona law.

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Prop. 308 is consistent with federal law, the Democrat wrote in her one-sentence conclusion.

No public benefits  unless you pass a new law

Two federal laws limit how undocumented people can attend college. One directly prohibits noncitizens from receiving any state or local public benefits, including postsecondary education, that is paid for with public funds. The other forbids allowing noncitizens to pay in-state tuition based on their residency unless any citizen, regardless of where they live in the country, can also benefit from the same rate.

Mayes pointed out that the first law carries with it a caveat that eliminates any potential conflict with Prop. 308: It expressly allows noncitizens to receive a public benefit if a state chooses to pass a law that affirmatively provides for such eligibility. Because Prop. 308 modified preexisting state law that made it more difficult for undocumented people to afford higher education, and also set new guidelines for when a person can qualify for in-state tuition, Mayes argued that it satisfies the exception in the federal law that prevents noncitizens from receiving public benefits. When 51% of Arizona voters agreed to enshrine a new standard into state law, the requirements of that federal law were met.

No making tuition contingent on residency  but other criteria is OK

The initiative also complies with the federal law that makes it illegal to base an undocumented persons access to in-state tuition rates on residency, Mayes wrote. Thats because Prop. 308 doesnt turn on a persons residency, but on their physical presence in the state and their attendance and graduation from a local high school, or an equivalent achievement.

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By contrast, Oklahomas tuition policy specifically mentions residency, stating: any person who resided in Oklahoma at the time of graduation from an Oklahoma high school and has resided in the state with a parent or legal guardian for two years is eligible for in-state tuition.

Mayes wrote that Prop. 308 doesnt center around residency, and because of that, it doesnt violate federal law.

Because Proposition 308 confers no eligibility for a postsecondary education benefit on the basis of residenceand instead uses other criteriait is consistent with (the federal law), she wrote.

The courts have long understood that particular federal law as limited to banning states from tying in-state tuition rates to residency requirements, leaving the door open to alternative eligibility thresholds. In 2010, Californias Supreme Court ruled that a law allowing students to pay in-state tuition if they have attended high school in the state for three years doesnt violate federal law because it doesnt make its eligibility dependent on residency. And even before voters greenlit Prop. 308, Arizonas main tuition law mandated that students must be domiciled in the state for at least a year to qualify for in-state rates.

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Mayes added that Prop. 308s broad eligibility criteria mean that it doesnt apply to just immigrant or undocumented students, either. Some people may have graduated from a local high school, only to move out of state later, but still have plans to return to Arizona for college. Others may have grown up traveling back and forth between an Arizona school and tribal land, much of which spans multiple states. In the end, residency isnt a requirement in Prop. 308, which makes it legal and unchallengeable under current federal laws.

Residence is not what triggers eligibility under (Prop. 308, Mayes wrote. Although many people who meet the eligibility requirements will also be residents, not all will be. And whether someone is or is not a resident is simply not relevant to the eligibility inquiry under (Prop.308).

***UPDATED: This story has been updated to note Karrin Taylor Robsons change from backing Prop. 308 in 2022 to now opposing in-state tuition and backing Trumps efforts to end it nationwide.

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The Brief

A Surprise man was arrested after being accused of impersonating an FBI agent and unlawfully pulling over a driver on Loop 303.

The arrest followed an investigation that started in April and led to the seizure of a vehicle with red and blue lights, as well as a jacket and hat with "FBI" on them.

A Surprise man was arrested after investigators say he was impersonating an FBI agent.

Roderick A. Gaines. Photo courtesy of the Arizona Department of Public Safety

Timeline

On April 10, a tipster reported to Arizona DPS that they saw another driver being pulled over by a man in a black Ford F-150 on Loop 303 and Lake Pleasant Parkway.

Photo courtesy of the Arizona Department of Public Safety

"The tipster provided investigators with video of the suspect and victim vehicles. Red and blue flashing lights are visible on the suspect vehicles front windshield during the incident," DPS said in a news release on Aug. 12.

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Troopers interviewed the driver who was pulled over, and said the man in the Ford identified himself as an FBI agent.

Months later, on Aug. 5, troopers arrested Roderick A. Gaines, 53, at his Surprise home.

"Gaines was booked into the Maricopa County Jail and faces one charge of impersonating a peace officer and one charge of unlawful imprisonment," DPS said.

Dig deeper

A jacket and hat with "FBI" were reportedly found in one of Gaines' cars.

As for the Ford F-150, investigators found it and seized it as evidence. A gun was also seized.

"Investigators found functioning red and blue lights still installed in the F-150, and additional police equipment was collected as evidence," DPS said.

What you can do

Anyone with information about this case, or if you believe you had contact with Gaines, call Arizona DPS at 877-4AZ-TIPS or at azdps. gov/tips.

-- AZDPS Troopers Arrest Police Impersonator in West Valley, Seek Additional Witnesses or Victims --



Read the news release: https://t.co/uDMmYmRjMRpic.twitter.com/H7DBCvsuZj  Dept. of Public Safety (@Arizona_DPS) August 13, 2025

Map of the area where the suspect pulled over a driver on Loop 303
DENVER (KDVR)  An Arizona man was sentenced for illegal hunting and trafficking in Colorado, according to a press release from Colorado Parks and Wildlife on Tuesday.

On July 31, Timothy Rawlings, 56, from Arizona, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison for violations of the Lacey Act and conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, both felonies, CPW said.

Very cold, snowy: Farmers Almanac releases 2025-2026 winter outlook

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Rawlings will also have to serve three years of supervised release after his time in prison and $45,800 in restitution.

Rawlings was sentenced after another man involved Howard Wayne Rodarmel, 71, from Baca County in Colorado, was previously sentenced for a misdemeanor Lacey Act violation. Baca was sentenced to three years probation, $9,164 in restitution and a $2,000 fine.

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service and CPW launched an investigation after two CPW wildlife officers became suspicious of Rawlings, who they believed was illegally outfitting in Colorado.

The poaching scheme headed by Rawlings spanned across multiple states, investigators said.

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After investigators discovered the Lacey Act violations, CPW worked with USFWS special agents to present the case for federal prosecution.

This case is a shining example of multiple agencies working together towards common law enforcement goals, said Ty Petersburg, CPWs Chief of Law Enforcement, in a press release. CPW was proud to be a part of bringing down a prolific wildlife poacher, and working hand in hand with Special Agents of the USFWS. Its the successful collaboration between CPW Officers and Investigators, Special Agents, and the U.S. Attorneys Office that resulted in the prosecution of this case. The health of our wildlife populations is based on a legacy of ethical hunting, so people who hunt unlawfully have a negative impact on our natural resources. Our Wildlife Officers are very committed to catching violators and protecting those resources.

Rawlings owned Old West Guides and Outfitters in Laveen, Arizona. His company had provided outfitting, hunting and guiding services to customers for big game animals, which included deer, elk, mountain lions and bears, said CPW.

The agency noted that Rawlings company did not have a license to operate in Colorado.

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CPW said Rawlings violations included:

Illegal outfitting

Brokering of landowner vouchers

Shooting from vehicles

Chasing animals with vehicles

Hunting in unlicensed and unpermitted lands

Failure to register animals taken, including mountain lions

The Lacey Act prohibits transporting wildlife that has been illegally taken under federal, state, tribal or foreign law.

New fire sparks in Rio Blanco County: Heres the status of all three fires

Rawlings performed the services knowing that his clients, nearly exclusively, lived outside of Colorado, and the animals would travel in interstate commerce, CPW said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 president of the Arizona state senate is asking the Federal Communications Commission ( Fcc ) to investigate Arizonas PBS station (KAET) for "viewpoint discrimination" over claims it wrongly influenced the state's contentious 2022 governor's race.

"As President of the Arizona State Senate, I write to request an investigation into the broadcast license for Arizona PBS," Arizona state senate president Warren Petersen said in a letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr obtained by Fox News Digital.

"Recently uncovered documents show that Arizona PBS violated legal rules, contractual requirements, and long-standing traditions to improperly put its thumb on the scale of the 2022 Arizona governors race," Petersen added.

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Pbs President Declares She 'Cant Make Any Sense' Of Accusations Of Left-wing Bias

The president of the Arizona state senate is asking the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to investigate the state's PBS station for viewpoint discrimination during the 2022 Arizona governors race between Kari Lake and Katie Hobbs.

"Just like its investigations into ABC News slanted 2024 debate moderation and CBS News hidden 60 Minutes interview of then-Vice President Kamala Harris, the FCC should investigate whether Arizona PBS violated its duty to act in the public interest when it engaged in viewpoint discrimination against a candidate for governor," he said.

In 2022, during the Arizona gubernatorial race between Democrat Arizona gubernatorial candidate Katie Hobbs and Republican Kari Lake, Hobbs declined an invitation to debate Lake.

Read On The Fox News App

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Hobbs and Lake did participate in a town hall-style event where each candidate was questioned separately during a forum hosted by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, but Hobbs subsequently refused to debate her opponent. She cited concerns that a debate with Lake would become similar to the Republican primary debate, and would support erroneous claims that the 2020 election was rigged.

Lake, a former TV news anchor, had also expressed fears that Democrats would cheat in the 2022 election .

The Arizona PBS station gave Hobbs what Petersen called "an unprecedented 30-minute interview" but Lakes solo interview with the outlet, set for Oct. 12, 2022, was canceled hours before it was set to begin.

Pbs Station Singles Out Gop Senators In Contentious Public Broadcasting Funding Battle

Kari Lake, a former TV news anchor, had expressed fears that Democrats would cheat in the 2022 election.

AZ Central reported that "The Arizona Citizens Clean Election Commission backed out of the event that was to be hosted in partnership with Arizona PBS (KAET) after the television station agreed to a separate, similar interview with Democrat Katie Hobbs."

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Petersen alleged that the day after Arizona State Universitys president "questioned the long-standing tradition that would have provided Kari Lake with a solo interview because of her positions on election integrity, university officials internally predicted that Hobbs would win the election."

The letter quotes emails between Arizona States Media Enterprise head, Mi-Ai Parrish, who said, "Katie is getting roasted hard, but I dont think it will matter," and a response from the university presidents chief of staff, which said, "I dont think it matters either."

In his letter, Petersen said that it took Arizona State University "more than two years743 daysto produce the internal emails exposing these partisan conversations."

"Based on the emails between top university officials, Arizona PBS made broadcast decisions based on how it viewed Kari Lakes positions on election integrity and Katie Hobbs electoral prospects," Petersen wrote.

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"Arizona PBS did not act in the public interest because it exhibited broadcaster favoritism for Hobbs and acted in a partisan, discriminatory fashion that was designed to serve the political advantage of a candidate," he added.

The Arizona state senate president is asking the FCC to investigate KAET for "PBS blatant viewpoint discrimination against Kari Lake and partisan calculations designed to benefit Katie Hobbs," and the revocation of their license.

Arizona Iced Tea's 99-Cent Price May Finally End After 30 Years  Tariffs Could Be To Blame

Fox News Digital reached out to the Arizona PBS station and Arizona State University for comment.

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Arizona State University directed Fox News Digital to this webpage addressing Arizona PBS, which said, in part, "As one method of delivering information on candidates, Arizona PBS had an arrangement with Arizona Clean Elections Commission to host and broadcast debates among candidates for state offices. While the Clean Elections Commission was the producer of the debate, Arizona PBS continued to maintain its responsibilities under its license and to its viewers by providing coverage of the elections separate from and in addition to the debates. Debates are not the sole mechanism for informing the public about elections."

It added that, "In 2022, one of the planned debates was for the office of Governor of Arizona between Republican nominee Kari Lake and Democratic nominee Katie Hobbs. When Hobbs decided not to debate Lake, the Clean Election Commissions plan to proceed with a one-party debate conflicted with Arizona PBSs licensing requirements. Arizona PBS was prepared to move ahead with a different format with the Clean Elections Commission to allow each candidate to speak and be interviewed about their candidacy on Arizona PBS. Hobbs chose to accept the interview invitation. Lake ultimately decided not to do so."

Earlier this month, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which provides funding to PBS and NPR, announced it would be shutting down following Congress passing legislation to revoke taxpayer funds from CPB.





Original article source: Arizona senate president calls on FCC to revoke state's PBS license over 'viewpoint discrimination'
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A new scam is targeting former unemployment insurance claimants by pretending to be the Arkansas Department of Commerce.

The ADC said in a news release on Aug. 12 that there is a new scam where scammers are sending fraudulent emails impersonating ADC workers.

The ADC said that the scammers are attempting to steal personal information, including Social Security numbers, dates of birth and PINs.

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The release said that the scam emails contain a link to a fake Wix website that looks like the official ADC website.

The ADC urged Arkansans not to click the suspicious emails and not to enter any personal information unless they are on the official website.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Gov. Sanders visit central Arkansas schools

Protecting Arkansans from identity theft is our top priority, Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald said in the release. We urge all claimants to remain vigilant, verify the source of any communication, and never provide personal information through unofficial websites.

ADC states how to spot the scam:

Official emails will only come from an @arkansas.gov address.

The scam emails have been coming from random letters/numbers @ascend.wix.com.

The scam email will direct you to www.ui.arkline.gov.claim.arkansas  it may look trustworthy, but it actually leads to a fraudulent site at the following URL: https://arknetarkansas.wixsite.com/my-site-1

Scammers may copy branding, but the State will never direct you to a site hosted on Wix.

The ONLY official websites related to unemployment insurance include:

ezarc.arkansas.gov  Initial claims

arknet.arkansas.gov  Weekly claims

login.gov  ID verification

launch.arkansas.gov  Job search

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For more information, visit the Arkansas Department of Commerces 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 KNWA FOX24.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas state legislators met at the Capitol on Tuesday for a press conference to discuss Act 573, which requires the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public-school classrooms.

A lawsuit filed on July 1 by a group of families represented by the American Civil Liberties Union argues the law violates the First Amendments Establishment Clause, which prohibits government endorsement of religion.

Arkansas attorney general files motion to intervene in 10 Commandments lawsuit

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State Sen. Jim Dotson and State Rep. Alyssa Brown, who helped sponsor the law, said they believe the measure preserves history and benefits students.

We believe that it will be upheld in a court or a higher court and an Obama-appointed judges ruling on that does not change the truth, Brown said. American history and its founding of its law shows that the Ten Commandments is a part of that.

John Williams, legal director of the ACLU of Arkansas, said the law is unconstitutional.

We think thats both an unconstitutional establishment of religion, and we think it interferes with our clients religious liberty because it really imposes a state-sanctioned version of the Ten Commandments on our clients who dont recognize that as the version of the Ten Commandments  if they recognize the Ten Commandments at all, Williams said.

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An attorney for Family Counsel pointed to the American Legion v. American Humanist Association U.S. Supreme Court decision, which upheld a large cross monument on public land, saying it shows that longstanding religious symbols can take on nonreligious meaning and become part of cultural heritage.

Instead of putting the burden of proof upon those who are offended with the Ten Commandments within our schools and our government buildings, hes put the burden of proof upon those who want to put it up, Jermey Dys, senior counsel for First Liberty, said. Exactly backwards of what the Supreme Court says hes supposed to do.

Williams said the law is not inclusive and could have a greater impact on students.

We think that this law is not inclusive, it coerces religious belief, it coerces a particular religious view, particularly school-aged children who are more vulnerable to this sort of thing, Williams said.

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Pine Bluff hosting event to get 10 Commandments in Arkansas schools ASAP

For now, the law applies statewide except in four northwest Arkansas districts covered by the current lawsuit. The case could take years to resolve, and if appeals move forward, it could eventually reach the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Martin Luther King Jr. Commission giving away free school supplies in Conway

Video: School supply lists filled for many Arkansans after attending back to school bashes

CONWAY, Ark.  The Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is giving back to the community as children start the new school year.

The commission will host a back-to-school giveaway at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 at Theodore Jones Elementary School in Conway. The address is 1800 Freyaldenhoven Lane.

Dont miss these Back-to-School events in Little Rock

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There will be free school supplies given out on a first come, first served basis.

Children must be present with parents or guardians to receive the 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 KARK.
State Education Board member Randy Henderson (left) and Education Secretary Jacob Oliva (right) listen to public testimony during a state board meeting on Mar. 9, 2023. (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate)

The Arkansas State Board of Education granted permission to the Blytheville School District to enter into the states second transformation contract during a special meeting Wednesday.

A transformation contract allows a public school with a D or F-rating or one classified as in need of Level 5Intensive Support to partner with an open-enrollment public charter school or another state-approved entity to create a transformation campus. The LEARNS Act, a 2023 law that overhauled the states K-12 education system, provides for the partnerships.

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The state board dissolved the Blytheville School Board in May and placed the struggling eastern Arkansas district under a Level 5Intensive Support classification due to ongoing academic, financial and administrative issues. The designation marks the highest level of state intervention or support.

The Arkansas Department of Education issued a request for proposals in May to establish a transformation contract for the educational and administrative management of the district.

ADE Deputy Commissioner Stacy Smith told the state board Wednesday that eight different groups showed interest and six completed the full application process. Four advanced to final interviews with a committee in Blytheville, which led Smith to recommend that the board allow the district to enter into a transformation contract with AMS Impact Group.

The charter management organization manages the Academies of Math & Science in Little Rock and nine other schools in Arizona, according to the companys website.

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Smith said the committee felt the organization was committed to Blytheville and understanding the community. Prior to interviews, AMS representatives spent days living in the community and talking to residents at local restaurants, she said.

They were about one of the only groups who actually showed that they had a real interest, not just in running the school, but being part of the community, Smith said. They definitely sold themselves to the folks who were on the committee that day.

AMS personnel have already been working with ADE staff in Blytheville. If a contract is approved, Smith said theyll be responsible for the districts daily operation, curriculum instructional support, direct support to personnel and professional development. The group has also brought in a robust community engagement plan that could include a community advisory board that would provide feedback on how the district was operating, she said.

Transformation is beginning, but we have a long way to go in Blytheville, Smith said.

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After the board unanimously voted to allow Blytheville to enter into a transformation contract, Education Secretary Jacob Oliva noted the decision to dissolve the board was not done lightly and was the culmination of a years worth of work trying to get things sorted.

This is a district that couldnt even get a toilet to work, Oliva said. So when the expectation is that basic facilities cant work, how can we expect students to learn?

Over the last two months, Oliva said ADE staff and the community have made getting the first day of school right for students and families their top priority. The AMS team has also been onsite and meeting with families, and the amount of excitement around Blytheville schools is contagious, he said.

Students are telling teachers and administrators that they feel like this might be the first time that they actually learn somethingthis is such an exciting time, and were going to see monumental gains very quickly because we are now focused on students and not adults, Oliva said.

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The education board approved the states first transformation contract between the Marvell-Elaine School District and Friendship Education Foundation, a charter management company, in May 2023.

The contracts initial term was set for July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2026. The contract could be terminated early or extended. Under the agreement, the foundation would be compensated $50,000 for the transition term, which lasted until June 30, 2023, and $200,000 annually during the initial term.

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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!
The City of Arlington is proposing a $12.28 increase to the average homeowners monthly bill for property taxes and fees beginning Oct. 1.

The increase aims at buffering for state law changes and closing the $20 million shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year.

The Arlingtons proposed $750.7 million budget includes spending cuts and adjustment to fees. The proposed property tax rate of 63.88 cents per $100 of assessed value would mean about a $59 annual increase in property taxes for an average homeowner.

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Between water, storm water and garbage fees, Arlington residents will see another increase of $7.38 on their monthly bill, depending on what services they use. In total, the average homeowner would be paying $147.39 more per year in such taxes if they utilize those three city services.

Part of the increase is due to property tax laws changing at the state level, which creates more opportunity for tax exemptions.

The City of Arlington also has to make up for the increase in revenue lost due to property taxes being protested.

If approved, the new tax rate takes effect in October.

Arlington City Manager Trey Yelverton told the city council that although the budget team typically considers five- and 10-year trends when forming the budget, that cannot be the case this year.

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The trends are completely broken because of various systemic modifications that are occurring at multiple levels of government, Yelverton said on Aug. 5.

An example of that is with the residential tax protest chart.

Since fiscal year 2022, revenue loss from residential tax protests has consistently risen from the usual 0.5%, nearing a projected 4% this year.

He said that although the economy is not as strong, it is still a very decent economy. The city is having to make up for resources being evaporated in this years budget.

In addition to a tax increase, the city is planning to reduce and restructure areas of the organization that are less of a priority.

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The city has eliminated 42 vacant positions already and is restructuring 22 positions, primarily associated with the esports facility . Those 22 positions will potentially be eliminated in the next fiscal year.

Yelverton said he hopes this restructuring will give those employees 14 months of notice rather than the required 30 days.

Arlington residents have an opportunity to speak to the council and city staff about the tax increase through the two public hearings on Aug. 14 and Aug. 21.
The Brief

Arlington ISD's new accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will be released on Friday.

The district's improved STAAR test scores from a manual re-score were not included due to a submission error, impacting the ratings for at least five campuses.

Arlington ISD plans to appeal the ratings as soon as they are released to have the higher scores reflected.

ARLINGTON, Texas - Arlington ISD students head back to class on Wednesday.

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Behind the scenes, the districts officials are dealing with a dilemma that will show up in Arlington ISDs accountability ratings to be released by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on Friday.

What we know

Like several other districts, including Dallas ISD, Arlington submitted a portion of its STAAR test results to be re-scored by humans rather than the states newly adopted automated system.

The Arlington ISD superintendent says this resulted in a significant improvement that would raise the A through F scores for at least five individual campuses.

But an unfortunate error in submitting the districts re-scores caused a delay, and a missed deadline.

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"We take all of this information seriously. We dont believe the accountability system is the whole story of what a school is and what it means to students and families, but we know its a piece of the puzzle," said Arlington ISD Superintendent, Matt Smith.

"Our re-score information, we submitted on time, shows that we had receipts for it, and there was an error on the back end. So, we didnt get the re-score results at the same time that Dallas did, and everybody else did."

What they're saying

Superintendent Smith says the error involved entering the re-score information onto the state's platform and that means those improved scores are not yet reflected.

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"How it impacted us is that those re-score results were not able to be included in the accountability score calculations that will be released this Friday. So we are going to be filing an appeal as soon as those are released because, based on our projections, based on the re-scores, weve had it and a significant increase for us," said Smith.

Dig deeper

Superintendent Smith says the delayed calculations will affect the overall scores for at least five campuses. It likely will not affect the districts overall rating, as the district predicts it will be rated a C.

"Without the re-scores, we project our district to be a C. We have 70 campuses in our district that have their own individual rating," said Smith.

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"We believe we will see an increase in five of our campus letter grades and significant score improvement across multiple campuses."

The Source

Information in this article was provided by Arlington ISD.
James Singleton was arrested Wednesday morning in Rock Hill and charged with killing 57-year-old Edward Townsend.

PAST COVERAGE: Police searching for suspect in deadly Lancaster shooting

The deadly shooting happened Tuesday at Palmetto Place Apartments on Pardue Street.

Singleton, 56, is currently being held at the Lancaster Police Department following his arrest, which involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Rock Hill Police Department, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the South Carolina Department of Pardon, Probation, and Parole.

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We are pleased to have achieved a quick resolution in this case, providing justice for the Townsend family, Chief Don Roper stated in a news release. We want to thank our Law Enforcement partners, the public, and the news media for their assistance in sharing Mr. Singletons photo and providing tips for our investigation.

No additional details have been made available.

This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com and watch Eyewitness News for updates.

VIDEO: Man charged in deadly shooting of Lancaster County business owner
CHICAGO (WGN)  Chicago police on Tuesday announced an arrest in the deadly shooting of 18-year-old Kaleb Williams, who was shot and killed on the citys West Side this weekend while waiting for a ride home.

Ortez Owens, 35, of Chicago, faces multiple felony counts, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery. CPD alleges that Owens fatally shot Williams and wounded another teen just after 4:30 a.m. Sunday, April 10, in the 5000 block of W. Maypole Avenue.

Ortez Owens (Photo/CPD)

The incident was one of three shootings within hours of each other in the Austin neighborhood.

PREVIOUS: Family mourns 18-year-old killed in West Side shooting while waiting for ride home

Police have not confirmed that all of the shootings were related.

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Owens arrest occurred on Sunday, about 14 hours after Williams death. All told, Owens faces the following charges:

One felony count  Murder  First Degree

Three felony counts  Attempt  Murder  First Degree

One felony count  Murder  Strong Probability of Death/Injury

One felony count  Murder  Other Forcible Felony

One felony count  Robbery  Armed W/Firearm

Three felony counts  Attempt  Robbery  Armed W/Firearm

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Owens is due in court for an initial detention hearing on Wednesday.

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Ashley Biden filed for divorce Monday and later shared online posts about freedom.

Biden, the daughter of former President Joe Biden and former first lady Jill Biden, married Dr. Howard Krein more than 13 years ago. At the time, then-Vice President Biden told People, This is the right guy. And hes getting a helluva woman.

But the union is apparently over, according to an online docket. No other details were provided in the posting.

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New life, new beginnings means new boundaries. New ways of being that wont look or sound like they did before, Ashley wrote on her Instagram story afterward to the song Freedom Time by Lauryn Hill, Newsweek reported.

Another expired post shows her walking through a park giving a thumbs-up as Beyonces Freedom plays, the outlet added.

Ashley Biden and Joe Biden share a hug at the Democratic National Convention in 2024. Robert Gauthier via Getty Images

The Philadelphia-based Biden and Krein, who do not have children, began seeing each other in 2010 after being introduced by her brother Beau Biden, The Hill wrote. They married in 2012.

Ashley Biden worked 15 years for the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families; she was executive director of the Delaware Center for Justice for five years until 2019, according to Newsweek. Krein is a plastic surgeon and head and neck surgeon.

Related: Joe Biden Pays Tribute To Jimmy Carter As He Celebrates Milestone Birthday

She fondly recalled her wedding at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, noting how her father helped organize the day despite serving as vice president at the time.

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Before he walked me down the aisle, he turned to me and said he would always be my best friend, she said. All these years later, Dad, you are still my best friend.

Jill Biden (center) with daughter Ashley Biden and son-in-law Howard Krein at the Taj Mahal in 2013. via Associated Press

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Mick Whelan, leader of the Aslef train drivers trade union, has announced his retirement.

Mr Whelan, 65, was a key figure in the two-year strike campaign that secured his members a 15 per cent pay rise from the Labour Government when it was elected in 2024.

Coming at the same time as the railways were trying to recover from the pandemic, the 2022-2024 strike campaign cost the taxpayer 850 million in lost ticket revenue, according to government estimates.

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First elected as general secretary of Aslef in 2011, Mr Whelan was re-elected unopposed in 2016 and in 2021. He has been a regular feature on picket lines and in making media appearances to defend his striking members against public opinion.

Train drivers average salaries have increased by about 25,000 since the year he was first elected, reflecting the outsized leverage exercised by Aslefs 22,000 members over every train company in the UK.

The timing of Mr Whelans decision to step down was picked to coincide with a union executive committee meeting being held this week, an Aslef source said.

Mr Whelan was a regular feature on picket lines - PA/Jordan Pettitt

A career railwayman who joined state-owned British Rail in 1984 as a guard, later retraining as a train driver, Mr Whelan is now one of the most powerful people in the Labour Party-aligned trade union movement.

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He chairs the Labour Unions group and sits on the partys national executive committee.

Mr Whelan expects to stand down next year following elections held before the end of 2025 to decide his successor, The Telegraph understands. It is likely that his deputy, Simon Weller, the assistant general secretary, will wish to succeed his boss.

Aslefs readiness to announce strikes has won it few friends, even among those who would be expected to hold trade unions in high regard.

Even the Labour-backing Guardian newspaper branded Mr Whelan Britains most-hated union leader in 2017, at a time when he had called a series of damaging strikes that ground large parts of the Southern train companys network to a halt.

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Last year, he told The Telegraph of how a child died after touching an electrified rail in front of the passenger train he was driving through north London.

Rail passenger numbers currently languish some three per cent below their end-of-2019 level, with the recovery from Covid having taken years longer than rail bosses hoped.

The Telegraph understands that there is no foul play behind Mr Whelans departure, in contrast to how his fellow trade unionist Manuel Cortes quit the TSSA amid an investigation into claims of sexual harassment and bullying.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Over 200 individuals are out of work, following the Monday fire that destroyed five businesses in downtown Salt Lake City. Downtown Alliance is fundraising to support those employees.

A fire in downtown Salt Lake City destroyed five businesses and temporarily closed several others on Monday evening. Fortunately, there were no fatalities and Salt Lake City Fire Department was able to fully evacuate all of the affected area. However, over 200 individuals worked at the five businesses that were destroyed and have since lost their jobs.

MORE INFO: Downtown Salt Lake City fire causes $5M in damages, 3 firefighters injured

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Nicole Harrison worked at the White Horse Bar for four years and was evacuated from the building shortly after the fire started. She told ABC4, Im really heartbroken. This place is not only my community and my home, but it was also my solace. I cant even imagine where Ill go next, honestly.

Downtown Alliance Salt Lake City, a non-profit meant to foster community within downtown SLC, has created an employee assistance fund and says 100% of the donations will support the employees cover their living expenses following the fire.

Dee Brewer, the executive director of Downtown Alliance, said, Downtown Salt Lake City has always been defined by resilience and its people. We know this community will rally together to help our neighbors get back on their feet and restore the vitality of this cherished block.

Individuals can learn more about the employee assistance fund and donate here.

Mayor Mendenhall issues call to action

Mayor Erin Mendenhall also issued a call to action for residents, asking Salt Lake City to show up for the surviving businesses on Main Street. She said, [Theyre] going to be open tomorrow- they need people to show up. We need to come down and support Main Street.

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Its a kick in the gut: Whiskey Street owner, others, speak out after devastating fire in downtown SLC

She also emphasized the economic importance of Main Street businesses, These are locally owned businesses and locally owned building owners. Part of what makes Salt Lake City unique but its not mostly chain restaurants, so this money stays in our economy.

Initially, the surviving businesses on Main Street were evacuated and closed while SLCFD fought the fire and the block lost power. However, many have since reopened.

For the five businesses that were total losses, Mayor Mendenhall says they will be working with the business owners and property owners to help rebuild. Currently, Salt Lake City is working to create an emergency loan fund with zero percent interest and will help fast track the inspection process.

Latest headlines:

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LOVES PARK, Ill. (WTVO)  Illinois State Police (ISP) arrested Trashone Townsend, 30, after they found 9 pounds of suspected cannabis in a Loves Park apartment.

On August 12, ISP SWAT, ISP SLANT and ATF teams searched the apartment in the 5800 block of Birkenshaw Lane.

Townsend was found in the residence, along with two other people, by SWAT officers.

Officials found 9 pounds of suspected cannabis, digital scales and packaging materials during the raid. A portion of the 9 pounds tested positive for THC, according to court records.

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Townsend is charged with manufacturing and delivering cannabis.

The suspects mugshot was not readily available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
The Brief

An Atlanta man is in custody after customs officials say they caught him with a massive amount of marijuana at Washington Dulles International Airport.

Investigators say they found 14 packages weighing 23 pounds, 3 ounces. The street value of the drugs was estimated to be around $90,000.

Customs authorities say this was the second drug arrest at the Washington airport in less than a week.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - An Atlanta man is facing criminal charges after customs officials say they caught him with 23 pounds of marijuana in his luggage.

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Authorities say 27-year-old Octavious Lamar Dozier was arrested while trying to take a flight from Washington, D.C. to the United Kingdom.

What we know

Authorities with U.S. Customs and Border Protection tell FOX 5 that Dozier had attempted to board a flight traveling to Dublin, Ireland at Washington Dulles International Airport.

During a search of the checked baggage, investigators say customs agents found multiple vaccum-sealed packages in a hard-sided suitcase belonging to Dozier.

In total, investigators say they found 14 packages weighing 23 pounds, 3 ounces. The street value of the drugs was estimated to be around $90,000, but officials say the shipment "could have fetched two to three times more in Europe."

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The Atlanta man was arrested at the departure gate.

Dig deeper

Customs authorities say this was the second drug arrest at the Washington airport in less than a week.

Two days before Dozier was arrested, officers charged a Las Vegas woman heading to Germany after they reportedly found 59 pounds of marijuana in her baggage.

What's next

Dozier is charged with transporting a controlled substance into the Commonwealth, and possession with intent to distribute, both felony charges.

He was turned into the custody of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.

The Source

Information for this article came from a release by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
A 27-year-old Atlanta man is behind bars after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers said they caught him trying to smuggle marijuana in his baggage headed to Europe.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Octavious Lamar Dozier, 27, was taken into custody by Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police on August 5. The Atlanta man faces felony charges of transporting a controlled substance into the Commonwealth and possession with intent to distribute.

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If you smuggle drug loads for criminal organizations, you will be caught and face criminal consequences, said Christine Waugh, Area Port Director for CBPs Area Port of Washington, D.C.

TRENDING STORIES:

According to USCBP, Dozier was attempting to board a flight to Dublin with a connection to Leeds, England. Officers intercepted Dozier at the departure gate, and thats when CBP officers say they found the marijuana in his checked baggage.

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Authorities said the officers found 14 vacuum-sealed packages inside a hard-sided suitcase, which tested positive for marijuana.

The intercepted marijuana weighed a total of 10.52 kilograms, or 23 pounds, three ounces, and had an estimated street value of $90,000, authorities said.

The USCBP said, in Europe, the value could be two to three times higher depending on potency.

Dozier and the marijuana were turned over to MWAA officers.

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Around 200 people turned up to the Line 5 contested case hearing in Ashland, Wis., on Aug. 12. Steven Garcia for Earthjustice

(The Center Square)  The waterways, rice beds and water quality around the Bad River Band reservation in northern Wisconsin will be permanently impacted by a 41-mile reroute of Enbridges Line 5 pipeline off reservation land and instead surrounding it, attorneys argued in opening statements of a series of hearings contesting permits for the work.

But groups advocating for the reroute say the four-year permit process was thorough and fulfilled all of the requirements for approval by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as the project awaits approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

These project impacts are not unavoidable, Earthjustice Senior Attorney Stefanie Tsosie said. And they arent acceptable under the states wetlands and water laws. Once youve heard the evidence you can set aside DNRs approvals for this project.

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The Wisconsin Jobs and Energy Coalition along with the Wisconsin Building Trades Council support Enbridge completing the reroute.

The council cited a 900-page environmental impact statement and 231 environmental protection conditions within the permits after the lengthy permit process.

Members of the Northern Wisconsin Building Trades understand both environmental stewardship and economic opportunity, Kyle Bukovich, President of the Northern Wisconsin Building Trades, said in a statement. The men and women who will build this project live and raise their families in these same communities.

They care deeply about environmental safety because this is their home, too. When you combine job creation with the rigorous safety standards our unions demand, this project represents a win for working families across our region.

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Groups opposed to the project have cited prior Enbridge pipeline spills, including Enbridges Line 5, which spilled more than 69,000 gallons of crude oil in Oakland, Wis., located in Jefferson County east of Cambridge, due to a failed gasket flange.

An oil spill of any meaningful size could be catastrophic, Clean Wisconsin attorney Evan Feinauer said in a statement. Such a spill is far from outlandish given the proposed routes geology, steep slopes, erodible soils, and numerous other risks. Despite all of this, DNR issued the permits anyway. It knew about most of these problems, and it should have known about the rest.

Proponents of the project, however, say the demand for oil will exist with or without the pipeline and so will some level of risk.

Line 5 is more than steel in the ground; its a lifeline for our regions economy and for the livelihoods of real, working people, said Chad Ward from Teamsters Local 346. Were talking about 700 good-paying union jobs during construction, with wages that allow workers to stay in their communities, support local businesses, and raise families with dignity.

Lets be clear, pipelines like Line 5 are statistically the safest and most environmentally responsible way to transport energy and utilize the latest technology and construction methods to ensure maximum safety. If this pipeline is shut down, the oil doesnt go away. It just gets moved on other modes of transportation, right through more towns, past more schools, with higher risks and a bigger carbon footprint.
CANTON, S.D. (KELO)  Last summer, it took Justin Rackley less than 15 seconds to end three lives.

Tuesday, it took jurors just an hour and a half to convict him on every count.

Tuesdays proceedings began with jury instructions and closing arguments.

Heres a closer look at what the prosecution and defense told jurors before putting the case in their hands.

UPDATE: Jury reaches guilty verdict in Lincoln County triple murder trial

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Before closing arguments began, the judge spoke directly to Justin Rackley. She told him he had the right to testify and if he chose not to, the jury wouldnt hold it against him. Rackley declined to take the stand.

During closing arguments, Lincoln County states attorney Tom Wollman summarized the evidence and explained how it proved Rackley was guilty, beyond a reasonable doubt, of first degree murder.

When you look at the intent that he had of bringing that handgun into that party, then drawing that handgun in the fashion that he did and shooting it in the fashion that he did, it clearly showed what his intent was, Wollman said after the trial.

However, Rackleys defense attorney Matt Theophilus argued the crime was not premeditated. He claims no evidence pointed to a motive, so he says there was no reason for Rackley to kill Michael Thompson, Kellie Reaves and Daniel Kemnitz. Theophilus asked the jury to consider whether alcohol affected Rackleys ability to form specific intent.

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But Wollman explained the state was not required to prove motive.

Its just one of those random acts of violence that well probably never know why he did what he did, but beyond a reasonable doubt, the jury has told us he did it, Wollman said after the trial.

After the guilty verdict, the judge ruled that Rackley would remain in jail until his sentencing.

As he was handcuffed and escorted out of the courtroom, family and friends of the victims clapped.

We also tried talking with the defense attorneys after the verdict, but they declined an interview.

The courtroom was packed with family and friends of the victims throughout the trial. It was an emotional week for them, but they were also happy with the verdict, especially Daniel Kemnitzs father, Len.

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It gives me a sense of closure that this part of it is over with, but the grief still is there, Len Kemnitz said.

We also caught up with Daniel Kemnitzs mother, Jean.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
Aug. 13Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber is recommending Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost look into removing Miami Twp. Fiscal Officer Robert Matthews from office over a potential violation of state law, according to records obtained by the Dayton Daily News.

Township officials allege that Matthews withdrew $9.7 million in township funds in March without permission and attempted to send money to coin dealers to buy gold coins, acting without proper authority. When the transaction was flagged as unauthorized, Matthews allegedly tried to fire the finance director who blocked it.

In an Aug. 5 letter to township trustees obtained by the Dayton Daily News, Faber's office agreed with the township's assessment, adding that Ohio law says fiscal officers can be removed if they "violated specified express statutory fiscal duties, and acted purposely, knowingly or recklessly doing so."

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Ohio Revised Code empowers the Ohio Auditor of State to investigate alleged misdeeds of township fiscal officers based on complaints from residents, and refer findings of possible violations of Ohio law to the attorney general's office, which can take action to remove the fiscal officer in county common pleas court.

The auditor's office found the allegations against Matthews meet the "high liability standard and burden of proof" in the law to merit referral to the attorney general's office, according to the letter, which bears Faber's name and is signed by Mary DeGenaro, special counsel to the auditor.

Matthews told this news outlet that he was aware of Faber's recommendation and is happy that his office "finally made a decision after a 60-day delay."

"I look forward to talking to (and) having the time with the attorney general to explain or clarify what went on, because the auditor made some assumptions and said some things that were not correct," Matthews said.

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The auditor's office says they found strong proof Matthews "knowingly committed acts expressly prohibited by law with respect to his fiscal duties" when he liquidated $9.7 million in township investments without permission from trustees or an Investment Oversight Committee, transferred those funds to a different township account and then attempted to transfer those funds to purchase gold coins. Matthews also signed contracts to store the coins and attempted to fire a township employee who flagged the transaction, the letter says.

Matthews was elected Miami Twp. fiscal officer in November 2023 and took office in April 2024. He previously was elected as Miami Twp. trustee in November 2013, but resigned in late March 2017.

The auditor of state's letter says a fiscal officer's duties are "largely ministerial," as evidenced by Ohio law that stipulates the office has "no authority to enter into contracts or expend funds without Trustee approval."

"There is clear and convincing evidence that FO Matthews knowingly committed acts expressly prohibited by law with respect to his fiscal duties," the auditor's office letter says. "There is nothing in the Ohio Revised Code, U.S. Code, or the Township Investment Policy that vested FO Matthews with the authority to act unilaterally or invest in gold coins."

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The letter agrees with the finding by a trial court that despite Matthews continuing to "baldly assert that he has broad authority to unilaterally manage and invest millions of dollars of the Township's money, without any oversight whatsoever," Ohio law does not "imbue Matthews with either unilateral control over the Township's investments or the authority to override the Township's lawful appropriations in order to make those investments."

Miami Twp. Trustee President Terry Posey Jr. declined to comment.

Trustee Vice President Don Culp said he deferred to Posey for comment "as he is the president of the board and the board holds a unanimous position on this matter."

Trustee Doug Barry said that "it's an unfortunate situation for the township right now."

"We're going to work through the process and let that play out, and then see where that ends up, but it's kind of out of our hands at this point in time," Barry said.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  As soon as Wednesday, Austin city council could approve its budget for next fiscal year, and set a tax rate high enough to trigger an election.

Because of a 2019 state law, taxing entities cannot raise the property tax rate more than 3.5% from the year prior without triggering a tax rate election, or TRE.

Austin mayor disappointed with cost of some tax rate election proposals

Thats where the city managers base budget sits  at the 3.5% rate allowed without triggering a TRE  which would still mean a total increase of $218.16 annually for the average ratepayer and taxpayer.

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City council and the mayor are considering asking voters to go higher than that, triggering a tax rate election in November, the month after the budget goes into effect.

How much would a TRE cost you?

Before we get to the tax rate election proposals on the table, below is the breakdown from city of Austin budget staff of how much each penny in the tax rate election (per $100 of value) would raise the average homeowners property tax bill.

The per-penny scenario is how leaders are presenting their tax rate election proposals.

Tax rate election cost per penny (Courtesy city of Austin)

Proposals on the table

Right now, the only council member outright against a TRE is Council Member Marc Duchen.

I remain uncomfortable with the expensive proposals supported by the Council majority and therefore intend to vote against any budget that triggers a TRE, Duchen said.

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Austin city manager proposes $6B+ budget, as mayor floats tax rate change

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson posted a new 5 cent proposal Tuesday, but he said it was an attempt to compromise with the majority of council members who wanted to go above his previously pitched 3.5 cent plan and that he still prefers his less expensive proposal.

My 5 cent proposal offers to fully fund our Homeless Strategy Office Plan without adding items outside that plan, increased funding to important public safety requests, and prioritizes our parks, among other basics, Watson said.

Watson has told KXAN he will not vote for a TRE that funds anything but core, basic services.

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Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes and Austin City Council Members Ryan Alter, Chito Vela and Jose Velasquez also proposed a 5 cent tax increase Tuesday night  which they say tweaks the mayors proposal.

We have recently put forward a proposal  that funds homelessness, funds affordable housing, funds social services and allows for further conversation on refining that for an ultimate budget adoption, Alter said.

That group is suggesting their proposal be the base budget Austin city council works from Wednesday as it works through amendments. Watson has said hes open to that if the proposal checks out with city financial staff.

If this is what we use, it would only be as a starting point. It would not be intended to gain any advantage over any other proposal. It is something that will allow us to have a primary motion, some structure for proposed amendments, and discussion. We would do this only so we could get started and because I cant talk to everyone except here on the message board, Watson wrote.

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Some Austin city council members, including Paige Ellis and Mike Siegel, asked that a more neutral document be created by city staff.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Austin leaders lay out tax rate election proposals  how much could it cost you?

It is my understanding that staff is working on a document that combines all of our proposals as much as possible. I believe it will be cleaner to work off of a joint document that is trued up by staff and incorporates the things we all seem to be agreeing on rather than one subquorum bringing amendments to another subquorums doc, Ellis wrote.

On Monday, Austin City Council Members Krista Laine, Siegel, Ellis and Zo Qadri came down from their initial 5.75 cent proposal to a new 5 cent proposal. While it would cost the same as the mayors, it offers different services.

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After consulting with a broad array of stakeholders, and with the goal of building a proposal that can win a strong supermajority of Council support, weve developed a 5 penny proposal that reflects both the urgency of this moment to invest in our citys future and our shared responsibility to be careful stewards of public funds, the group wrote Monday.

According to the above chart, all of these proposals, at 5 cents, would raise the average homeowners property tax bill by $302.14 annually, $197.92 of that from the TRE. That could go up or down as city council/the mayor add or take away line items.

The city manager included rates in his impact statement, so apples to apples, for the average ratepayer and homeowner this scenario would cost total $416.08 more annually.

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Austin City Council Member Natasha Harper Madisons chief of staff, Sharon Mays, told KXAN the council member is in favor of a TRE, but hasnt supported a specific proposal yet.

CM Harper-Madison is still in favor of a TRE; however, shes more comfortable with the 5-cent option now. Were monitoring the message board to stay current on the updates being posted by the other council offices. If a TRE happens, CM Harper-Madison wants to make sure that its an amount that the voters will pass, Mays wrote.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Editors Note: The video in the player above is from Austin Polices initial media briefing the night of the shooting.

AUSTIN (KXAN)  The 18-year-old who died in a homicide on Rosewood Avenue last week had allegedly received threats from the suspect leading up to the day of the shooting, an arrest warrant affidavit revealed.

Earlier this week, Austin police announced in a news release that the suspect in the shooting was identified as 17-year-old Douglas Clyde. He was charged with first-degree murder, and his bond was set at $125,000, according to Travis County online court records.

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APD: Teen dies, police investigating as a homicide at apartment complex on Rosewood Ave.

Douglas Clyde, 17 (Austin Police Department Photo)

If Clyde bonds out, he must abide by the following conditions, which are provided by Travis County online court records:

He must wear an ankle monitor with GPS and have a curfew

He can have no contact with witnesses connected with the homicide

He must stay away from the address of the homicide at 2609 Rosewood Ave.

He must have proof of a job or that he is in school within 30 days of release

On Thursday, KXAN reached out to Clydes attorney for a statement. We will update this if one is received.

Events leading up to the homicide

Officers responded to the shooting Aug. 8, around 6:45 p.m. at 2609 Rosewood Ave., an apartment complex in east Austin. When officers arrived at the apartment, they found Atwood with an apparent gunshot wound, the release said.

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Witnesses told police they heard between 10 to 15 shots before seeing two people run away from the area, according to the affidavit.

Family of Atwood told police that around five minutes before the 911 call, Atwood answered his phone and then went outside the apartment. Shortly after he left, they said they heard gunshots. Then, one family member looked through the window and saw Atwood running down the hill towards the apartment. As the family member watched, they heard two more gunshots, and that is when they saw two people standing at the top of a hill at the complex running away, court records said.

Another family member then saw Atwood running towards the apartment saying he thought he had been shot. When Atwood got inside the apartment, he collapsed. That is when the family member called 911, according to the affidavit.

Austin-Travis County EMS responded to the scene and attempted life-saving measures on Atwood. However, he was pronounced dead at 7:08 p.m., according to police.

Austin police are investigating a homicide at an apartment complex on Rosewood Avenue in east Austin. (KXAN Photo: Aidan Boyd)

The history between the suspect and the victim

According to police, a juvenile girl was with Clyde, her current boyfriend. Atwood was the girls ex-boyfriend.

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A witness who lived at the complex was a friend of Clydes girlfriend. They told police she asked them to hang out shortly before the shooting happened. The witness said they had never met Clyde, court records said.

Clydes girlfriend and the witness were talking about school when Clyde walked up to them, saying, he was going to bring a gun to school. As they were talking, that is when Atwood walked up the hill to them.

When Clyde saw Atwood walk up to them, he said, Should I do it, should I do it. Then, he lifted his shirt exposing a pistol in his waistband. He then drew the pistol, and both Clydes girlfriend and the witness ran away before hearing multiple gunshots, according to the affidavit.

After police conducted the homicide investigation, they were able to get a warrant for Clydes arrest on Aug. 9.

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Then, on Aug. 11, police issued an arrest warrant for Clyde for a first-degree murder charge. Clyde was found in Manor by the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force/Tactical Intelligence Unit.

This case is being investigated as Austins 38th homicide of 2025, according to police.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Aug. 12A pair of Austin schools were among 93 schools honored by the Minnesota Department of Education for their sustained commitment to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. A total of five districts are also being recognized for districtwide efforts.

Among the schools honored were IJ Holton Intermediate School and Sumner Elementary.

Schools and districts recognized have demonstrated exceptional leadership in improving school climate, engaging the community, and increasing student achievement.

PBIS is an evidence-based framework for preventing problem behavior, providing instruction and support for positive and cooperative behaviors, and supporting the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of all students.
Editors Note: KXAN has updated this article with the preferred name of one of the victims after speaking with family and friends and receiving an update from APD.

AUSTIN (KXAN)  The 32-year-old who police believe killed three people in a north Austin parking lot Monday was not supposed to be in possession of a gun, legal experts told KXAN.

Target shooting suspect has extensive criminal history

According to online court records, Ethan Nieneker was convicted of misdemeanor-level family violence in 2016.

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When you have a family violence conviction, youre prohibited from owning firearms under federal law for the remainder of your life, defense attorney Benjamin Gergen, who is not involved with this case, said.

Nieneker faces two Capital Murder charges in the deaths of 65-year-old Adam Chow and his 4-year-old granddaughter. He also faces a first-degree murder charge in the death of a 24-year-old Target employee.

KXAN confirmed with a coworker and fiance that the Target employee preferred to go by Rosa Martinez Machuca, instead of the name APD initially provided.

An attorney was not yet listed for Nieneker. KXAN will update this article when that changes.

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Police said Nieneker killed Chow and his granddaughter while stealing their car, and shot Machuca  a Target employee  at random as he was collecting shopping carts.

Nienekers most recent arrest in Travis County was in 2019, according to court records. It was another assault family violence case. It was ultimately dismissed in 2022 because the courts could not locate the victim.

Police Chief Lisa Davis said several times that Nieneker has long struggled with his mental health, and appeared to be experiencing an episode during the attack.

When were dealing with someone with these issues, where does someone with this capacity to do this get a weapon, and when does a family member feel comfortable giving someone with these issues a weapon? Davis said.

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Gergen said while Nieneker was not supposed to have a gun, theres no official tracking system to make sure people convicted of crimes arent carrying.

Its almost impossible to police every single person, he said. So thats when we ask people in the community, if your loved one has mental health issues, to say whats he doing, does he have guns at home.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
By Alasdair Pal

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australia and Vanuatu on Wednesday agreed a A$500 million ($326.50 million) deal to strengthen economic and security ties between the two countries, amid increasing competition from China, the Pacific island nation's largest external creditor.

Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the deal, known as the Nakamal Agreement, will see Australia invest the funds into Vanuatu over the next decade and was a "win win" for both countries.

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"The agreement... will transpire into a lot of trade benefits between the two countries, whether it be the security agreement, economic transformation, with some specific focus on labour mobility," Napat told a news conference on the island of Tanna in southern Vanuatu.

Australia Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the agreement showed the two nations had a "shared destiny".

"It acknowledges that as neighbours, we have a shared security environment and a commitment to each other," Marles said

The deal will be formally signed by Napat and Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the coming weeks, he added.

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The deal also covers funding for climate resilience following a December earthquake that hit the capital Port Vila, killing at least 14 people and injuring hundreds.

In recent years Vanuatu has moved closer to China, the country's largest external creditor after a decade of infrastructure loans for construction, including a new president's office last year.

($1 = 1.5314 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Editing by Michael Perry)
A man in India has been arrested for illegally sourcing polluted water from a local lake and selling it despite knowing that it could make people sick.

In the south-central city of Hyderabad, a man was caught running an operation that drilled underground to collect lake water that is contaminated with metals like cadmium and nickel, according to a report by The Siasat Daily.

This was discovered when officials started restoration work on the lake and found the rogue pipelines being used for water collection. The water was being sold to nearby apartment buildings and businesses, such as hostels.

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It is, of course, very dangerous to drink and bathe in water that's heavily polluted with toxic metals, and doing so could cause many health issues and even death.

Waterways around the world have been contaminated due to human intervention, like waste and runoff from factories, oil spills, and microplastics.

This makes the water unsafe not only for us, but also for wildlife. A ruined water source can destroy the local ecosystem and threaten the fish, birds, and other animals that depend on it.

It's crucial that government officials pass laws that hold companies and individuals accountable when they pollute water and the atmosphere.

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For example, the European Union drafted a new law to require cosmetics and pharmaceutical companies to pay for 80% of the costs to clean up the water they contaminate.

And in Canada, coal mines polluting water have been a problem for years. A new panel of experts was recently formed to analyze water quality data, study the impact on humans, and find a solution.

Thankfully, the individual selling dirty water in India was stopped because of an effort by the local government to clean up and restore the lake.

Officials diverted the sewage line that was causing the pollution and are working on preventing rainwater from freely flowing into the water, and have plans to add pathways, landscaping, and a playground to the area, according to The Siasat Daily.

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.








Rochester, New York, residents received a startling alert this week  a shelter-in-place advisory after a large animal, possibly a mountain lion, was caught on a home security camera wandering a residential street.

What's happening?

Around 4 a.m. on July 9, a home security camera in the city picked up something unexpected  a huge, cat-like animal walking along the street, as detailed by the Democrat & Chronicle.

The animal was only visible for a few seconds in the clip. Still, it was more than enough to catch Stephany Baez's attention. She posted the video to Facebook, saying: "It doesn't look like a dog or a normal cat, but it looks like a wild cat, maybe a mountain lion or a tiger?"

Her post prompted others to report similar sightings across Rochester. One report came in the very next day, and the concern was serious enough that officials issued a temporary shelter-in-place alert just to be safe.

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According to the Democrat & Chronicle, there's no official confirmation of what the animal actually was. "None of these reports have been substantiated," said Rochester Police Department Lt. Anthony DelVecchio. Still, the police are urging people to remain on the lookout.

"Until the validity of the original video can be confirmed, RPD urges the public to remain vigilant," DelVecchio said. "If anyone observes a large wild animal, they are advised to go indoors immediately and call 911."

Why is this sighting concerning?

It's not every day you hear about a wild cat possibly roaming through a city, but reports like this are popping up more often in places across the country. One reason? We're building more homes, roads, and businesses in areas that were once wilderness.

That means animals like mountain lions are running out of space and resources, sometimes forcing them to cross into neighborhoods just to survive.

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When wild animals lose access to their usual food and shelter, they begin to appear in areas where people are. That's not great for anyone  it puts communities at risk and stresses out animals that would rather avoid humans altogether.

What's being done about incidents like this?

Police and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation are monitoring the reports and asking people to share any video or photo evidence.

No solid proof was found of a mountain lion in Rochester, but authorities weren't taking any chances  and the reports of sightings have continued, per WHAM.

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.

In the meantime, there are a few simple things people can do to help keep their neighborhoods safe. Taking in pet food at night, locking up garbage cans, and checking security cameras can all make a difference. If you live near wooded areas, being aware of your surroundings  and reporting anything unusual  helps, too.

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In the long term, protecting wild spaces and building smarter can reduce these close calls. Giving animals the room they need to thrive makes things safer for everyone, and it helps keep the natural balance that supports healthy ecosystems  and healthy communities.

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.
Last month, Charlie Wolf attended a meeting of the Greers Ferry, Arkansas, city council to complain about a license plate camera that he said was violating the Fourth Amendment by regularly taking pictures of his driveway and front yard. Greers Ferry Police Chief Kallen Lacy acknowledged Wolf's "distress" but rejected his legal analysis, saying "over 5,000 cities" across the country use such cameras, "so there is no constitutional violation there."

Despite Lacy's assurance, the widespread acceptance of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) as a crime-fighting tool only magnifies the privacy concerns they raise. They enable routine surveillance of a sort that would have troubled the Fourth Amendment's framers.

"Unlike red-light cameras or speed cameras that are triggered by specific violations," the Institute for Justice notes, ALPRs "photograph every vehicle that drives by and can use artificial intelligence to create a profile with identifying information that then gets stored in a massive database. Once that happens, officials can search the database for any vehicle they wish, all without a warrant."

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Worse, "departments around the country are automatically sharing data with each other, making it simple for police anywhere to track drivers' movements. All of this arbitrary discretion threatens people's privacy, security, and freedom of movement by creating an atmosphere where everyone knows they are being watched and tracked whenever they hit the road."

Wolf's experience crystallizes these concerns. As he noted at the city council meeting, the camera that was installed across the street from his house on May 13 was photographing "our yard, curtilage, and vehicles" whenever a car passed by.

"We're being photographed and entered into a database without consent or violation of any law," Wolf said. The camera captured images of Wolf and his wife whenever they left their home or returned to it.

The camera also documented the comings and goings of the Wolfs' visitors, including their friends, children, and grandchildren. Depending on the vagaries of traffic, it might record trips to the mailbox, kids playing in the yard, or anything else happening in front of the house.

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Local officials initially were unfazed by the Wolfs' complaints, insisting that the camera, one of five installed in the tiny town under a contract with the ALPR company Flock Safety, would stay where it was. But they reconsidered after receiving a letter from Institute for Justice attorney Joshua Windham, who explained why the couple's objections deserved more respect than they had received.

In 2018, Windham noted, the Supreme Court held that the FBI violated the Fourth Amendment when it collected cell phone location data without a warrant supported by probable cause. That ruling, he explained, was based on the principle that the Fourth Amendment "must preserve at least as much privacy as Americans would have enjoyed when it was adopted."

Back then, Windham observed, "police lacked the means to create a historical record of people's physical movements" because "they simply did not have the manpower or the technology to do so." He noted that a federal judge in Iowa and two state supreme courts have recognized that "the placement of a surveillance camera in front of a home," like tracking someone's movements via cell phone data, "may violate a reasonable privacy expectation."

The morning after Windham sent that letter, Greers Ferry officials posted a defense of ALPRs that read like a Flock press release. But by the end of the month, they had agreed to remove the camera that was spying on the Wolfs.

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That small victory for privacy was followed a week later by another encouraging development: Scarsdale, New York, terminated its ALPR contract with Flock Safety after more than 400 residents signed a petition expressing concern about "the broad and lasting implications of deploying such a surveillance system."

The official rationale for the town's decision was a lack of funding. But the criticism provoked by the project suggests Americans are beginning to recognize the perils of surrendering their privacy in the name of public safety.

 Copyright 2025 by Creators Syndicate Inc.

The post Automated License Plate Readers Are Watching You appeared first on Reason.com.
New versions of the Kratos XQ-58 Valkyrie drone will be manufactured for the U.S. Marine Corps after the service made the drone a new program of record, Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco told investors during a phone call last week.

The Valkyrie drone, an unmanned aircraft known for its versatility and many warfighting capabilities, has been flying since 2019 and until this point has been used by the U.S. Air Force and Marines for testing and evaluation.

In Kratos tactical drone business, it was recently reported that both the U.S. Marine Corps and the Office of the Secretary of Defense stated that the Valkyrie is becoming a program of record and will be the first CCA [Collaborative Combat Aircraft] in production and fielded for the Marines, DeMarco said.

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Marines have tested the Valkyries ability to provide targeting data from the air and conduct electronic warfare. Last December, the drone autonomously provided intelligence data to Marine Corps pilots, who exercised control over multiple drones at once.

The move by the Marine Corps to adopt the Valkyrie means new variations of the drone will move into production.

In addition to producing the drone for the U.S. military, the company will also manufacture a European version to be supplied to the German Air Force.

The Valkyrie is low-cost, lightweight and flexible, making it a UAV suitable for a wide array of missions. The drone can fly long range at high subsonic speeds and drop bombs, as well as fly stealth surveillance missions. It can be manufactured quickly and can fly in swarms to augment U.S. airpower.

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Last month, two XQ-58A Valkyrie drones flew in the loyal wingman role with U.S. fighter pilots in an exercise that the Air Force called a major leap in human-machine teaming.

During the exercise, fighter pilots wielded the drones seamlessly while conducting combat maneuvers.
US President Donald Trump has informed his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders that his objectives for his upcoming meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin are to achieve a ceasefire and gain a better understanding of whether a comprehensive peace agreement is possible.

Source: Axios, citing two informed sources, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The meeting between Trump and Putin is expected to take place in Alaska on 15 August. During extensive talks involving European leaders, Zelenskyy and US officials on Wednesday 13 August, Trump said that his goal is to achieve a ceasefire and gain a better understanding of whether a comprehensive peace agreement in the Russo-Ukrainian war is possible.

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Trump downplayed the likelihood of any major breakthroughs in Alaska, calling it a "feel-out meeting".

However, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who also took part in the discussion, confirmed afterwards that Trump said he wanted to try to achieve a ceasefire.

A source said Zelenskyy told Trump during the discussion that "Putin cannot be trusted". According to the source, Trump told the leaders he believes a peace agreement would require a territory swap.

"Trump said it's Vladimir and Volodymyr who have to discuss territories with each other, not him," the source noted.

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Another source present at the discussion said that Macron had taken a "very tough" stance and told Trump that "a meeting is a very big thing to give to Putin".

"Trump didn't like that," the source added.

The source also noted that Merz and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte were "very active", while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni "raised some good points".

Polish President Karol Nawrocki, according to the source, "reminded Trump of the Battle of Warsaw, exactly 105 years ago, when Poland fought together with Ukrainians against the Bolsheviks in Russia".

Background:

Only some EU leaders attended the meeting, and from NATO's eastern flank only Poland and Finland were present. Finland is also a member of the coalition of the willing, which began talks after Merz and Zelenskyys press conference.

Macron stated after the call that territorial issues "will not be negotiated" by anyone except Zelenskyy.

Merz, commenting on the talks, revealed the main points brought up in the conversation with Trump, in particular that "Ukraine is ready to discuss territorial issues, but the starting point will be the line of contact".

"Legal recognition of the occupied territories [as Russian  ed.] is not up for discussion," he emphasised.

Zelenskyy said the issue of the meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska on 15 August had been covered in various talks. Trump has told Zelenskyy that they will stay in touch after the Alaska meeting.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The Brief

State Sen. Carine Werner said she is preparing for a closed-door meeting that involves the Arizona Department of Child Services.

The meeting comes after the deaths of Emily Pike, Zariah Dodd, and Emily Baptiste this year.

Each of the three victims were reportedly known to DCS.

PHOENIX - Following the deaths of Emily Pike, Zariah Dodd, and Rebekah Baptiste, lawmakers want to accelerate an investigation into Arizona's Department of Child Safety (DCS).

The Backstories

The three cases mentioned all happened in 2025.

Emily Pike

Pike, who was 14, was in the custody of the San Carlos Apache Tribe before they placed her in a DCS-licensed group home in Mesa. She ran away in late January, and her remains were discovered dismembered weeks later near Globe.

Zariah Dodd

Dodd, 16, was nearly six months pregnant when she was found shot and killed at Marivue Park, which is located in the area of 55th Avenue and Osborn in Phoenix's Maryvale area, on July 5. She left her group home in Surprise to be with the two suspects charged with her murder. One of the suspects, 36-year-old Jurrell Davis, is the father of Dodd's unborn baby.

Rebekah Baptiste

Baptiste, 10, was found dead in late July by authorities. Prosecutors said she suffered long-term, horrendous abuse.' Her father, Richard Baptiste, along with the father's girlfriend, are charged with first-degree murder and multiple counts of child abuse.

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We have also learned that Baptiste had been in foster care over the years, but her father had regained custody from DCS.

"The child has to be safe and thriving, and we've always looked at what's in the best interest of the child, but it hasn't been defined," said State Sen. Carine Werner (R). "In [Baptiste's] case, where was she safe and driving? Was that in her foster home or was that with her dad?"

What's next

During a one-on-one interview with State Sen. Werner, the lawmaker said she is preparing for a Sept. 3 closed door stakeholder meeting of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee of DCS. Leaders from DCS, tribal nations, law enforcement, legislative members and child welfare experts will review state protocols together.

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At some point after the Sept. 3 meeting, a public meeting on DCS oversight will be scheduled.

What She's Saying

State Sen. Werner said changes within the system must happen soon.

"When it comes to the tragedies that weve mentioned: could any of these have been prevented?" we asked State Sen. Werner.

"I believe absolutely that they could have been prevented if there were proper protocols in place in the group home and DCS," State Sen. Werner replied. "With [Baptiste], she was in a foster home, so its a little bit different than the group homes, but we need proper processes in place so that we can protect these children, and I do believe that these could have been avoided."

The other side

On Aug. 13, State Sen. Werner is meeting with newly-appointed DCS Director of Kathryn Ptak.

We have also requested to interview Ptak, but have not heard back on a decision.




NEED TO KNOW

A baby girl was rescued from a truck after it plunged 50-foot into a ravine in Thailand on Aug. 9

The child's mother and father were also in the vehicle, though the mother did not survive, according to the Associated Press

Rescuers said the girl was found sitting in her car seat and wrapped in a blanket and surrounded by pillows, which her mother had arranged to protect her





A baby girl is lucky to be alive following a deadly car crash in Thailand.

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Footage obtained by the Associated Press showed the tense, late-night rescue, with first responders racing to free the girl, thought to be around 1 years old, from an overturned vehicle that had plummeted nearly 50 feet into a ravine in the Chiang Mai Province. According to local media outlet Bangkok Post, the crash took place on Saturday, Aug. 9.

Rescue teams arrived on the scene at about 9 p.m. and found a truck that had landed upside down with its roof striking a rock directly upon impact, according to the outlet. They discovered that the passengers of the vehicle had been a family, including a mother and father, who were thrown from the vehicle.

Rescue teams said the mother died on the scene and the father, who was still conscious and able to speak, alerted first responders to their young daughter who was still trapped inside the car.

Thairath TV/AP First responders try to free the child from the car First responders try to free the child from the car

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

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The outlets video showed just how challenging the rescue was as first responders had to deal with elements including the cover of darkness and a stream that ran below the overturned truck. They also had a narrow space to work with in order to reach in and safely extricate the little girl.

One first responder could be seen sticking his head under the car to talk to and calm the girl as two others could be seen moving around the car in order to figure out how to best conduct the rescue. Eventually one of the rescuers could be seen gently pulling out the crying baby through a truck window as nearby first responders cheered.

Thairath TV/AP The little girl who was rescued from the ravine in Thailand The little girl who was rescued from the ravine in Thailand

The first responder who held the child appeared to have a tough time getting out of the stream and mud, though, and other rescuers could be seen moving to help him and the child get out of the area at the end of the video.

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.

Thairath TV/AP Video footage captured the moment the child was freed from the vehicle Video footage captured the moment the child was freed from the vehicle

Rescuers noted that the child was found sitting in her car seat inside the truck, wrapped in a blanket and surrounded by pillows, which her mother had arranged to protect her, according to the AP. The extra pillows and blanket seemed to have worked like makeshift airbags, helping to cushion the child after the vehicle plummeted.

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This sight deeply moved the rescue team, who were touched by the mothers final act of love to shield her child from harm, the AP reported.

It is unclear whether the child suffered any injuries from the crash or whether received medical treatment. It is also unclear whether her father was taken to the hospital after getting thrown from the car.

Read the original article on People
MEHLVILLE, Mo.  A newborn baby was safely surrendered at a safe haven baby box at Mehlville Fire House 2 over the weekend, according to the Mehlville Fire Protection District.

The baby was placed in the safe haven baby box at 5434 Telegraph Road around 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

Upon discovery, fire crews immediately took custody of the newborn girl, who was transported to a hospital for evaluation and care. She is now in the custody of the Missouri Department of Social Services.

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The safe haven baby box is a secure, climate-controlled compartment built into a fire station or hospital, allowing parents in crisis to safely, anonymously and legally surrender their newborn. Once the baby is placed inside, an alarm alerts trained staff, who respond immediately to provide care.

St. Charles issues citywide boil water advisory

The baby box highlights the importance of resources to give children the chance for a safe and supportive future.

This event reinforces the importance of having resources like the Safe Haven Baby Box in our

community, said Brian Hendricks, Fire Chief of the Mehlville Fire Protection District. Its about protecting our most vulnerable residents and giving them the best chance for a healthy future.

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The Mehlville Fire Protection District says this was the second surrender since installing the safe haven baby box in August 2023. The other such instance came in February 2024.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes has a confidential National Safe Haven Hotline, 1-866-99BABY1, that provides free counseling and info on safe surrender, including face-to-face surrender.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WJW)  Several FOX 8 viewers are sharing videos and pictures of what has been described as a ball of swirling light in the sky.

Credit: Courtney Eveleth at West Branch State Park

On Tuesday, the Perseids Meteor Shower was expected to peak, which had many stargazers searching the night sky for shooting stars. However, what they saw  wasnt that.

Horrifying discovery in toilet lands woman in ER

Take a look! The unusual light was spotted around 10:30 p.m. by viewers around northeast Ohio, including Cuyahoga, Lake, Portage and Stark counties. Many asked, What was it?

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Astronomer Jay Reynolds explains that the swirly lights are likely the result of a rocket launch and its vapors reflecting off a combination of sunlight and moonlight.

Coffee sold at Dollar General recalled; could contain glass: FDA

Depending on the inclination of the rockets and its intended orbit, it will indeed leave a swirly cloud of vapors in the atmosphere, explained Reynolds. (The) vapors are high enough that they reflect sunlight and, in our case, moonlight, lots of moonlight!

Credit: Haylee McMahon in Leroy Township Credit: Haylee McMahon in Leroy Township Credit: Elizabeth Jameson in Alliance, Ohio Credit: Elizabeth Jameson in Alliance, Ohio Credit: Elizabeth Jameson in Alliance, Ohio Credit: Courtney Eveleth at West Branch State Park Credit: Courtney Eveleth at West Branch State Park Credit: Courtney Eveleth at West Branch State Park

According to CBS, shortly before the unusual lights were reported, just before 9 p.m., United Launch Alliance fired off its first operational Vulcan rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

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Its not confirmed if thats the rocket responsible for the strange light; however, Reynolds says it is likely.

The light was reported as far north as Ontario, Canada.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Ballard oddities shop says $20,000 in inventory stolen

The Ballyhoo Curiosity Shop in Ballard says two thieves broke into their store, stole an estimated $20,000 in inventory, and caused thousands more in damages on Sunday morning.

The burglary was reported to Seattle police at around 8:15 a.m. and employee Brandon Vosika says the thieves allegedly broke through the front door and smashed multiple display cases in the store.

The pair reportedly stole sterling silver jewelry, shark teeth, and a woolly mammoth tooth, according to a police report.

The oddities shop has set up a GoFundMe linked here.

While the break-in is definitely a setback at this crazy time, it hasnt broken the Ballyhoo spirit! Vosika wrote.
If you know nothing else about the blitz of proposed 2026 ballot questions that were filed with the state last week, know this:

Policy advocates across the spectrum whose causes live and die at Beacon Hills whim  are feeling themselves. And theyre not afraid to show it.

From rent control and squashing an unpopular statewide zoning law to opening up the states primaries, ending the gas tax and cutting the income tax, this years volley of proposals  there are more than 40 of them  signals some high-grade frustration with Beacon Hills admittedly laissez-faire approach to lawmaking.

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The proof is in the numbers. Lawmakers on both sides of the State House introduced an eye-popping 8,456 bills in 2025, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan tracking site Fiscal Note.

So far, just seven bills have made it through the process and been signed into law. Thats the worst record in the nation, according to that same analysis.

Given that, it only makes sense to go straight to the voters. And recent history suggests theyre willing, under the right circumstances, to play along.

Advocates are taking heart from a 70% victory on an anti-Beacon Hill ballot measure in the last round, Jerold Duquette, a Central Connecticut State University political science professor who tracks Bay State politics, said.

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Thats a reference to the wildly popular, but still hotly contested and utterly unfinished, 2024 ballot question that empowered state Auditor Diana DiZoglio to audit the state Legislatures books.

This is definitely coming from activists who want the pace of change to go faster  urgency felt even more so because of whos in the White House. Trump is polarizing the progressive base and activists are responding, UMass Amherst political science professor Ray La Raja said.

How it all works

Its not as easy as it sounds. And before we proceed, a brief word about the process.

Attorney General Andrea J. Campbells office has until Sept. 3 to decide which ballot questions meet constitutional muster. If they do, their backers have to gather 74,574 signatures by Dec. 3.

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If that happens, the questions go before the state Legislature, which has until the first Wednesday in May of 2026 to pass them, propose a substitute, or take no action.

If the latter happens, backers have to collect a second round of 12,429 signatures by July of the same year to get on the November general election ballot.

The power and money game

And thats where things can really get interesting  and the cash can start pouring in, putting to lie the idea that ballot questions are the popular will given voice.

Once again, the proof is in the numbers. Interest groups on either side of the 2024 ballot questions spent a combined total of $25.2 million to advance their causes, according to a report by the states Office of Campaign and Political Finance.

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That includes the hugely influential Massachusetts Teachers Association, which advocated on behalf of scrapping the MCAS exam as a high school graduation requirement.

The MTA was the single largest contributor to the Committee for High Standards Not High Stakes, paying for goods and services such as advertising, mailings, consulting, and staff time to support the question, according to that OCPF analysis.

Its an elitist game  its become dominated by people who are already powerful, and have a very large presence in the state, La Raja said.

For Duquette, these kinds of high-profile contests are also a way for the Legislature to wash its hands of taking on a politically polarizing issue. The high-dollar ballot battles then become proxy fights, he argued.

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Its ... a political pressure valve that the Legislature is happy to use, he said. When there is an issue that causes two special interests to square off against each other, the Legislature is happy to let them beat each other up.

Marquee names

Among the constellation of interest groups waging ballot fights, one high-wattage political name emerges: Massachusetts Secretary of State William F. Galvin.

The states chief elections officer has filed a question that would allow people to register and vote on Election Day. The Brighton Democrat told MassLive that its the capstone of a broader effort to make it easier for people to vote.

Every major election we have, statewide that is consequential, we end up with tens of thousands of people trying to vote ... and they are not on the list, they get a provisional ballot, then the election administrators try to determine [whether] they can be counted, Galvin said in a phone interview.

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And thats where La Raja and Duquette said they both draw the line between ballot questions that improve the process and those they believe do not.

Ballot questions that make it easier to vote or boost competition in elections, broadly, are good ones, they argued. Others, such as one that would ditch legislative leadership stipends, are institutional tinkering and not as welcome.

I dont like ballot measures that try to change the institution itself, La Raja explained. They should be making their own decisions. Changes will happen in the Legislature if you change the electoral incentives.

Duquette, in a separate interview, offered a similar analysis.

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Any ballot initiative that tries to change the operation of the Legislature is unconstitutional, he argued. This is the nose in the tent for the kind of executive overreach that has destroyed Washington and paralyzed many state houses around the country.

Read more analysis from John L. Micek

Read the original article on MassLive.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is calling out Trumps attack on predominantly Black and brown cities amid the Presidents federal takeover of Washington D.C..

Its very notable that each and every one of the cities called out by the president has a Black mayor, Scott said on CNN Monday night (Aug. 11). He pushed back against Trumps criticism of cities he intends to takeover next including Chicago, Los Angeles, Oakland, and Baltimore. Theyre so far gone, Trump said of the cities crime rates.

Mayor Scott refuted the claim, explaining, Most of those cities are seeing historic lows in violent crime. He credited the feat to holistic public policy. Adding, Maybe we are too far gone. Too far gone from the broken right-wing policies of zero-tolerance policing and all the things that did not make our city safer for all those many years.

Trump is deploying the National Guard in the nations capital because he claimed itd been overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, globing mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people, and were not going to let it happen anymore.

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Mayor Scott, on the other hand, stated, We know that having the military there is not the way to do [reduce crime]. The way to drive down violence in cities has been proven. Mayors across the country have brought together law enforcement, the legal community, the actual community, community violence intervention work to reduce violence across this country and cities to lows that we have not seen in decades.

He also believes Trump could learn a lot from us. He explained, Were safer than we have been in decades, in my lifetime, in most cities. Thats something that each of these mayors should stand on [and] something the president should be coming to work alongside them to continue that partnership.

Scott also feels Trumps forceful tactics and subsequent threats are a distraction. He continued, The president does not want the American people to hear him answer questions about the economy or the Epstein files.

Both D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and NAACP President Derrick Johnson have reacted to Trumps latest antics. Johnson stated, Theres no emergency in D.C., so why would he deploy the National Guard? To distract us from his alleged inclusion in the Epstein files? To rid the city of unhoused people? D.C. has the right to govern itself. It doesnt need this federal coup. This president campaigned on law and order, but he is the president of chaos and corruption.

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Meanwhile, Mayor Bowser expressed, This is a time where community needs to jump in, um, and we all need to, to do what we can in our space in our lane to protect our city  and to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule, and get to the other side of this guy, and make sure we elect a Democratic house so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push.

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Graffiti on the banner also included the phrase Leftist Massacre, believed to reference the Hamas-led October 7 attack, as well as symbols associated with the Ku Klux Klan.

A banner in Tel Aviv calling for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza was defaced with graffiti on Tuesday night.

The banner, which hangs on a bridge over the Yarkon River, features the slogan until the last hostage is freed. It was spray-painted with anti-leftist messages, including leftist murderers of Jews and leftist apostates.

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Graffiti on the banner also included the phrase Leftist Massacre, believed to reference the Hamas-led October 7 attack, as well as symbols associated with the Ku Klux Klan.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum responded to the pictures posted on x/twitter, calling for the public to take action.

They called on the public to report any banners that are vandalized, removed, or damaged in order to preserve visibility for the ongoing hostage crisis.

The authorities have not yet issued an official response regarding the defacement.

Expanded ground operations in Gaza

This comes on the heels of the IDF announcing the expanded operation in Gaza. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir said on Monday, We are at the start of a new stage in the fighting in Gaza. We will do everything to protect the hostages and bring them home.

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The comments were made at a widespread situational assessment at the General Staff Headquarters in Tel Aviv. The announcement of the expansion of the operations in Gaza left much of the public and, most importantly, the hostage families, desperate to make sure that their loved ones wouldn't be harmed. Hamas is still holding 50 hostages, and videos were publicized last week showing Evyatar David and Rom Braslavski shaken and starving.

Sara Ben-Nun contributed to this article
FIRST ON FOX: Several Laotian illegal immigrants convicted of serious crimes were deported back to the Southeast Asian country on Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced.

Each of the 12 already had orders of removal placed on them by a federal immigration judge, including some dating back to 2003.

"Obstructing a murder investigation, child sex crimes, and drug trafficking: These were just a few of the crimes these heinous illegal aliens committed in our country. Nowthanks to the brave men and women of ICE law enforcementthese barbaric criminals are OUT of our country and can no longer prey on American citizens," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

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Trump Administration Arrests 'Worst Of The Worst' Criminal Illegal Immigrants In Enforcement Sweep

A United States Air Force Boeing C-17 used for deportation flights is pictured at Biggs Army Airfield in Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas on February 13, 2025.

"Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, America is no longer a safe haven for the worlds criminals. Despite a historic number of injunctions from activist judges, ICE continues to remove criminal illegal aliens from Americas streets," McLaughlin added.

Click Here For More Immigration Coverage

Read On The Fox News App

Sai Vang, 39, was convicted of "aiding and obstructing an investigation of first-degree murder" and is a gang member. Sokhorn Ngem, 56, was convicted of "first-degree criminal sexual conduct" and "distributing sexually explicit material to a minor."

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Lue Kong, 43, is convicted of "first-degree criminal sexual conduct" with a child under 13 years old.

Ice Busts Several Convicted Criminals, Including Child Rapist Who Threatened To Kill 11-Year-old Victim

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem watches during a vehicle scan during a tour of the San Ysidro Port of Entry, in San Diego, U.S., March 16, 2025.

Seng Kghang, 38, is convicted of "third-degree criminal sexual conduct" with a child between the ages of 13 to 15. Wa Kong Lor, 33, was convicted for "breaking and entering" a vehicle in order to steal, as well as weapon and drug offenses. Su Yang, 47, was convicted of robbery in Toledo, Ohio.

Fue Yang, 45, was convicted of "second-degree home invasion," "breaking and entering a vehicle to steal property," illegally "driving away" in a vehicle, and hiding stolen items he obtained.

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Meanwhile, Soun Vongrasamy, 64, was convicted on cocaine-related offenses.

'Worst Of The Worst Arrested In Nationwide Criminal Illegal-alien Crackdown: Dhs

Bounthavy Phenglavanh, 45, was convicted for the delivery or manufacturing of ecstasy. Pang Ngia Hang, 54, was convicted on bank fraud charges.

Sengaroun Phenglavanh, 47, was convicted on multiple drug and firearm offenses. Phouvanh Manivong, 51, was convicted on "felony attempted larceny and felony grand larceny" charges.

The Trump administration is continuing to tout the arrests and subsequent deportations of those with criminal convictions and charges. Meanwhile, DHS has been encouraging self-deportations by offering $1,000 and free travel outside of the U.S. for illegal immigrants without additional criminal backgrounds for a chance to possibly come back to the country legally.





Original article source: 'Barbaric criminals': ICE removes slew of Southeast Asian nationals convicted of serious crimes
BARRY COUNTY, Mo.  A Barry County man was arrested on Thursday, Aug. 7, following an interview made with law enforcement.

Nathan Easleys mugshot. Photo courtesy of Barry County Sheriffs Office.

According to online court dockets, Nathan Easley, born 1999, of Cassville, has been charged with four counts of sexual misconduct involving a child under 15.

The probable cause statement says that the Barry County Sheriffs Office responded to a request to assist the Missouri Department of Social Services Childrens Division.

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Camden County man sentenced to 25 years in 2023 shooting

Law enforcement began an investigation and recovered a note that Easley had written confessing to sexual misconduct with the victim.

Officials interviewed the victim, who said that Easley had exposed himself after they had woken up from sleeping. The victim reported that Easley had done this in four different incidents and that it had made them uncomfortable.

Easley is currently in Barry County Jail with a $100,000 bond. He is currently awaiting a bond appearance hearing on Aug. 15, 2025.

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The Brief

A new "We Are LA" office in South Los Angeles has provided eviction defense assistance to over 1,000 residents since June.

The program offers resources like legal services and personalized case management to Angelenos at risk of losing their homes.

Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the program as a key part of efforts to address homelessness in the city.

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Wednesday announced the expansion of the anti-eviction program, We Are LA, in South Los Angeles.

What they're saying

Over 1,000 Angelenos have received eviction defense assistance through the We Are LA program at a new office in South Los Angeles, Mayor Bass said.

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The program, which opened its first dedicated casework office in June, is designed to help residents facing or at risk of eviction by connecting them with legal services and other housing resources.

"Preventing people from falling into homelessness is key to our efforts in addressing this humanitarian crisis," said Mayor Bass. "Results show that this program is working, and with a second consecutive decline in homelessness for the first time in recent history, we must continue this momentum."

Conway Collis, CEO of The Mayor's Fund, stated, "As part of Mayor Bass' comprehensive homelessness plan, we want Angelenos to know they don't have to face the threat of eviction alone."

Serene Nunez, a client of the program, shared her experience, saying, "They walked me through every stepthe paperwork, the deadlines, the confusing legal languageand they did it with such care that I knew I wasn't walking through this alone."

What we know

The We Are LA program, launched in 2023, provides early intervention to help families stay in their homes.

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Services include one-on-one personal case management, assistance with applications, and connections to legal aid.

The new casework office is located at 5440 Crenshaw Blvd.

The program also specifically assists veterans and foster youth with housing.

More information about the We Are LA program is available by calling the hotline at 213-584-1808 or by visiting the website at mayorsfundla.org.

The Source

Information for this story is from the office of Mayor Karen Bass.
Bath & Body Works is offering its products in more than 600 college campus stores ahead of the 2025-2026 school year.

Bath & Body Works will be selling its products at more than 600 college campus stores during the 2025-26 academic year, including several in Kentucky.

The brand's reach aims to strengthen its connection with Generation Z consumers after being named the No. 1 fragrance brand for American teens and the third overall most-shopped at beauty stores by teens in the Piper Sandler Taking Stock with Teens Spring 2025 Survey.

Bath & Body Works has partnered with ICM Distributing Company to launch kiosks, working with national chains such as Barnes & Noble College and Follett-operated bookstores, as well as independent campus retailers, Chief Merchandising Officer Betsy Schumacher said. Here's what we know.

What Kentucky colleges will Bath & Body Works sell products at?

Bath & Body Works will be located on several Kentucky campuses, including Kentucky State University, Morehead State University, Northern Kentucky University, University of Kentucky and University of Louisville.

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Others where a kiosk will be located are Eastern Kentucky University, Jefferson Community & Technical College, Western Kentucky University and University of the Cumberlands.

What products will be available?

A variety of Bath & Body Works products will be available on college campuses, including body creams and lotions, fragrance mists, Wallflower diffusers, PocketBac hand sanitizers, lip products such as glosses and scrubs, hand soap and 3-wick candles, Schumacher said.

Scents like Champagne Toast, Mahogany Teakwood and Clean House Vibes are standout scents and will be available in these bookstores, added Schumacher.

Others are reading: Popular activewear brand opening its first Louisville location this fall at Oxmoor Center

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USA TODAY reporter Greta Cross contributed. Reach Marina Johnson at Marina.Johnson@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Bath & Body Works to open at 600 colleges. See Kentucky universities
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge is calling on artists and people in the music industry to use their voice.

Several groups across the capital area are seeking feedback to improve resources tied to the arts through a music census.

We want to know where the performances are taking place. What are the current challenges in terms of marketing and pay for musicians? All those types of things we want to know and really the demographic of whos performing where so that we can hopefully lead to policy change or just understand our ecosystem, said Jonathan Grimes, president and CEO of Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge.

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Grimes said the purpose is to collect valuable information that can form strategies to support live performance, improve professional development, address affordability, and guide long-term investment in the Greater Baton Rouge areas creative economy.

I think we have a really robust music scene. I think we could do a much better job of advocating for our artists, and specifically our musicians, said Grimes.

This opportunity is for anyone who considers themselves a part of the Baton Rouge region music ecosystem, industry, or performance scene. The council encourages musicians of different backgrounds across the capital region to give their feedback to ensure theres an honest picture of the regions music life.

This is the perfect time for us to dive in and really find out the nitty-gritty information we need to know from the people doing the performances, said Grimes.

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The census will be open for two weeks starting in September. Participants must be 18 or older.

New Baton Rouge Film Trail shows where movie, TV scenes were filmed

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Baton Rouge Police Department arrested a man connected to a shooting that injured a woman in 2024.

Marquise Morris, 28, of Baton Rouge, has been charged with attempted second-degree murder, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and illegal use of weapons.

On July 15, 2024, Baton Rouge Police responded to an apartment complex on Brightside Drive about a reported shooting where Morris and the woman had been living together.

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Police said that Morris and the woman were arguing with each other before the shooting. During the argument, Morris grabbed the womans gun and shot at her six times. She was struck in her back and right arm.

After the shooting, the 28-year-old took the womans car keys and drove off in her blue Hyundai.

Reportedly, Morris was seen running out of the apartment complex by two witnesses who lived at the location and described him as emotionally distraught.

Furthermore, the investigation revealed blood was found on the floor inside the apartment, along with five spent bullet casings.

Morris was booked in the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on Aug. 12 and had his first court appearance on Wednesday.

Latest News

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 BBC has apologised after a contributor to the Radio 4 Today programme's Thought for the Day slot accused shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick of "xenophobia".

Theologian and author Dr Krish Kandiah used the term about an article in which Jenrick said he wouldn't want his daughters living near "men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally and about whom you know next to nothing".

In response, Jenrick said listeners had been told that "if you're concerned about the threat of illegal migrants to your kids, you're racist".

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A BBC statement said that while Dr Kandiah's message was "broadly in line with expectations of Thought for the Day, some of the language it used went beyond that and we apologise for its inclusion".

Wednesday's episode of the Today programme was temporarily taken down from catch-up service BBC Sounds while three sentences were edited out of Thought for the Day.

The segment, which is broadcast during the Today programme but overseen by the BBC's religion department, features contributors from religious and theological backgrounds delivering messages related to topical themes and events.

On Wednesday, Dr Kandiah, founder of refugee charity The Sanctuary Foundation, referred to a Mail on Sunday article written by Jenrick this weekend.

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He quoted a line from the Conservative politican that said: "I certainly don't want my children to share a neighbourhood with men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally and about whom we know next to nothing."

Dr Kandiah continued: "These words echo a fear many have absorbed  fear of the stranger. The technical name for this is xenophobia. All phobias are, by definition, irrational. Nevertheless, they have a huge impact.

"It is understandable that many people are scared by the unknown, especially if they've been told illegality and unfairness are part of the story. However, over the past year, xenophobia has fuelled angry protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers, deepening divisions in our communities."

In response, Jenrick, who has three daughters aged 10, 12 and 14, posted: "On BBC Radio 4 this morning listeners were told that if you're concerned about the threat of illegal migrants to your kids, you're racist. Wrong. You're a good parent."

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A BBC spokesperson said: "While its reflection on fear in society from a faith perspective is broadly in line with expectations of Thought for the Day, some of the language it used went beyond that and we apologise for its inclusion."

It is understood the BBC was apologising for the inclusion of an opinion in a place where it was inappropriate, not passing judgement on the rights or wrongs of the opinion.

In his Mail on Sunday article, Jenrick also described migrant crossings in the English Channel as "a national security emergency" and said he had sympathy with "the mothers and fathers peacefully protesting outside asylum hotels who have been pushed to breaking point".

More than 27,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel since the start of the year.

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Small boat arrivals are a small percentage of the UK's overall immigration figure. In 2024, an estimated 948,000 people arrived expecting to stay at least a year, while an estimated 517,000 people left the country.
Radio Fours Today programme is the BBCs current affairs flagship, a three-hour set that seeks to establish the political agenda with interviews and discussions. Thought for the Day, broadcast at around 7.45 each morning, is supposed to offer some reflective relief from the normal cut and thrust.

The slot, which began life in 1939 under the title Lift Up Your Hearts, was once almost exclusively Christian in its output but is now often occupied by representatives of other faiths. The BBC says it offers reflections from a faith perspective on issues and people in the news.

Clearly, it will be the opinion of the contributor but it must still conform to the non-partisan requirements of a public service broadcaster funded by licence-fee payers who dont have the luxury of getting their two minutes and 45 seconds on the air.

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Wednesdays Thought for the Day was given by a hitherto little-known refugee charity founder called Krish Kandiah. He proceeded to deliver a sustained attack on the Conservative front-bencher Robert Jenrick over a newspaper article about illegal immigration.

He said the shadow justice secretary had fuelled fear of the stranger by saying he did not want his children to share a neighbourhood with men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally. Dr Kandiah commented: The technical name for this is xenophobia.

Since the Government has asked a panel to produce a new definition of Islamophobia we can now see how it could be used by some to shut down legitimate points of view expressed in a newspaper. These segments on Today are scripted and screened in advance so how did this get through? It has subsequently been edited; but since no one who read it requested any changes we must infer they thought it contained nothing untoward.

There is a set of assumptions that underpins far too much of the BBCs news output, ranging from welfare and the NHS to climate change and immigration. An in-built bias against anything that challenges lazy Left-of-centre nostrums suffocates broader debate on issues that matter to the great majority of listeners. The Thought for the Day fiasco is on a par with the failure to pull the live anti-Israeli ranting of rap group Bob Vylan during Glastonbury. Will the BBC ever learn, or is it simply incapable of doing so?

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 story was originally posted to MyNorthwest.com

As a Puget Sound heat advisory entered its second day, Tuesday, firefighters expected the Bear Gulch wildfire near Lake Cushman to continue to grow.

The human-caused fire has burned 6,196 acres with containment only at 3%, according to Public Information Officer John Artley.

Theres very little we can do to actually stop the progression, he explained.

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Crews cant get into a position to head off the fire.

Most of the fire is now burning in the wilderness area in the really steep, rugged terrain, and its not really safe or feasible to insert crews, Artley said.

The fire appears to be moving away from populated areas, where firefighters have successfully prevented it from burning any structures.

But Level 3 Get Out Now evacuations remain in effect near the Dry Creek trail, including the Staircase Campground and areas across the causeway on the north side of Lake Cushman.

There are extensive closures on the southeast corner of Olympic National Park.

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Part of Lake Cushman, the most northern part, is still closed to the public, but the lower half area has been opened, Artley said.

With a hot and unstable environment around the fire, it has produced several "pyrocumulus clouds" at times. With the extreme heat and smoke rising from the fire, the hot air entering a cooler environment aloft has allowed an actual cloud to form, which continues to billow higher in the sky.

Potential for smoke from Bear Gulch wildfire

The heat advisory was expected to end Tuesday night, as cooler winds off the Pacific move into western Washington. Those same winds could push wildfire smoke into the greater Seattle area, but Meteorologist Ted Buehner expected it to be a short-lived event.

When we start to see the onshore flow of the cooler air coming in, some of that smoke will probably get over to the rest of the Puget Sound area, but it should come in and get out pretty quickly because well start to see the marine clouds on Wednesday morning, Buehner said.

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The wind is not expected to exacerbate the fire, though there will probably be some gusts in different areas, Artley explained.

Overall, firefighters are looking forward to the impact that the cooler, wetter weather will have on the wildfire.

Itll definitely slow down the growth, Artley said.

But mild weather is no longer a given, even in western Washington. Drought is providing more dry fuel for wildfires, making them a more common occurrence.

I think normally a fire wouldnt spread this much on the Olympic Peninsula, Artley said.

We are so far behind on our rainfall for the year, thus far, Buehner said, confirming Artleys concerns. Ill give you an example. SeaTac Airport is about 6 1/2 inches of rain behind average. Everett is more than 12 inches [behind], and if you go out to the north coast, out at Forks? Theyre more than 20 inches behind for the year.

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Weve got moderate to severe drought conditions across much of the state of Washington at this point, he said. We really need to make sure we dont have any human-related fire starts.

Investigators believe people started the Bear Gulch fire. Theyre just not sure how.

Anyone with information on how the fire might have started is urged to contact the Forest Service Tipline at (541) 618-2154 or SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov.

Read more of Heather Boschs stories here.
Channel 11 spoke with nearly a dozen Beechview neighbors on Tuesday who either had their cars broken into or know someone who has.

Its kind of insane that they are doing this at like one in the morning, said Eric Garcia, who said he and his mother were among the victims.

Garcia said nothing was taken from his vehicle, but another resident reported that his gun was stolen.

I woke up one morning to go to work, and my car was cracked open, said Alan Hightower. I went down to take a look, and I noticed my holster was sitting in the front seat.

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Residents said bags, purses and credit cards appear to be common targets.

Another neighbor said the problem isnt new.

Last summer, I was personally impacted by it. I was one of the cars that was stolen, said Chris Barnes, who now blocks in his car to prevent theft.

Bob McLaughlin, whose car was broken into last year, said break-ins are becoming more frequent in the neighborhood.

Be alert and look out, McLaughlin said. My thought is if you see anybody walking the streets after midnight, Id be suspicious of him.

Channel 11 has reached out to Pittsburgh police to find out how many cars were broken into. We are still waiting to hear back.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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Superintendent Aaron Plas of Bennington Public Schools, State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area, Superintendent John Schwartz of Millard Public Schools and Lakeview Community School Board President Keith Runge, from left, meet during the inaugural meeting of the Nebraska School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  A new state commission charged with reviewing and suggesting updates to how Nebraska funds its public K-12 schools kicked off its first meeting Monday largely with a consensus that the state should dole out more aid to local schools.

The work of the new School Financing Review Commission revolves around property taxes and state income and sales tax dollars distributed under Nebraskas Tax Equity and Educational Opportunities Support Act, better known as TEEOSA or the state aid formula. The formula, at a basic view, considers a districts needs minus its resources. A district receives equalization aid if it has a positive balance.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, center, addresses the new School Financing Review Commission during its first meeting. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

For the 2025-26 school year, TEEOSA is calculated between 18 needs, such as addressing student growth, poverty or English language learners, and six resources, including some income tax funds in a given district and how much a district could collect if it taxed the property within its boundaries at $1.

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While all schools receive some level of state funding, only 50 of the states 245 school districts are equalized, a calculation that fluctuates annually in part because of property valuations.

Gov. Jim Pillen, addressing the commission Tuesday, asked that commissioners leave any preconceived ideas behind and look at whats best for Nebraska and its schools.

Its critical, we all agree, you never, ever, give up on a kid, Pillen said. Cant let one be left behind.

Brady Public Schools Superintendent Ann Foster, one of 17 members of the mostly governor-appointed commission, which still has one vacancy still to fill, said she recognizes the work is twofold: property tax relief while keeping kids at the heart of all decisions.

TEEOSA basics

Local school property taxes accounted for about $2.9 billion of a $5.3 billion total in property taxes collected statewide last year. Schools receive about $5 billion in total revenue each year, including federal and general state aid plus state dollars meant to offset some local property taxes through tax credits.

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Voters prohibited the state from levying separate property taxes in 1966.

State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, center, one of three current senators who sits on the new School Financing Review Commission as nonvoting members. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Pillen and state lawmakers took a first stab at addressing TEEOSA after he took office in 2023 by establishing baseline foundation aid for each district  $1,500 for K-12 students plus $900 for pre-K students.

State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, one of 18 commissioners and vice chair of the Legislatures Education Committee, passed the legislation this spring establishing the new financing commission to suggest possible tweaks to TEEOSA. The formula has been perennially updated since its creation in 1990.

A lawmaker-led committee thought up TEEOSA and a similar school financing review commission took effect after it passed. That group disbanded in 2002.

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State law requires the new commission to produce a first report of recommendations by Dec. 1, with most commissioners saying they want to meet at least monthly until then.

Overreliance on property taxes

During Tuesdays meeting, the commission broke into small groups to think up goals for the commission  with agreement there must be a balance among revenue sources, including as funding variables change.

Nebraskas new School Financing Review Commission meets for the first time. Gov. Jim Pillen, front-center, addresses the group. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

In large part, commissioners said they want to get away from an overreliance on property taxes.

Millard Public Schools Superintendent John Schwartz said his group wanted to highlight sustainability and predictability for school districts, the state and taxpayers. But he said doing so should not erode intended property tax relief efforts, which his group said might add value.

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State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislatures Education Committee, suggested educating the public about TEEOSA could be a good focus, too. Schwartz and former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area agreed. Linehan chaired the Legislatures Revenue Committee for six years.

If it was simpler, I think, and people understood it better, school funding would even have more support than it does now, Murman said.

Operational expenses

Other commissioners, such as Hughes and Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese, suggested long-term plans that would have the state assume greater responsibility for school funding.

Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese of Albion, left, and Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislatures Education Committee, talk during a break of a School Financing Review Commission meeting. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Hughes, vice chair of the Education Committee, highlighted a long-term goal to push school property tax rates closer together, which vary between 30 cents and $1.05 per $100 of property valuations. Her original bill in the spring, which included the commission, also sought to do this.

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However, Hughes original plan, which had earned the backing of Pillen and many school and ag advocates, needed about $120 million in state funding to work.

That remained out of reach with current tax revenues, as the state continues to face budget woes and as lawmakers reject suggestions to add sales taxes to goods and services currently exempt from them or to increase taxes on tobacco or vape products.

Briese again suggested the state take on the operational expenses of local schools, 80% of which are staff salaries and benefits, an idea Briese, Pillen and other lawmakers tried to rally behind in summer 2024.

A small group of the School Financing Review Commission meets during its inaugural meeting. From left: Superintendent Jason Dolliver of Pender Public Schools, Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese, Omaha School Board member Shavonna Holman, Nebraska Property Tax Administrator Sarah Scott of North Platte and State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

That model would be similar to the state assuming the property tax side of community college through 2023 legislation led by Briese and Murman. That law allows community colleges to go back to property taxes if state funding from mostly sales and income taxes falls.

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Its aspirational at this point, Briese said. Its going to be hard to get there any time real soon, but I think we ought to work through that, figure out how we can do that and try to set ourselves on a roadmap to do that.

Some school officials and lawmakers have balked at the idea of the state taking on a greater portion of state aid instead of property taxes, arguing it could erode local control and lead to more strings, an idea that resurfaced Tuesday and will likely continue to be a focal point.

However, sometimes the same public school defenders have criticized the state for not funding schools to a higher degree.

Operational expenses

Keith Runge, president of the Lakeview Community School Board in Columbus, explained that the state taking on more school funding can be a scary proposition.

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Today, the situation could be alright, Runge explained, but in three or four years, he asked if some state lawmakers or officials would try to tie the hands of local schools and say, You either do it this way or youre going to lose some of this.

Omaha School Board member Shavonna Holman, a member of the School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Omaha Public Schools, the largest in the state, has taken a blanket position of opposing any legislation that would increase the districts reliance on state funding or lead to the erosion of local control in budgeting decisions, such as teacher recruitment. OPS board members voted 7-0 for the position in July 2024, earning the ire of some lawmakers, including Linehan

Linehan last summer proposed legislation to remove the resources side of the TEEOSA equation. She then suggested using TEEOSA as the vehicle to distribute more school funding.

Shavonna Holman, an OPS board member representing the district on the commission, declined to comment on the districts position. She was one of the seven voting for it, as did now-State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, who sits on the Education Committee. OPS communications staff confirmed Tuesday that the districts position has not changed.

Defining local control

State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, who serves on the Legislatures Revenue Committee, pushed back. He said school districts already get state money and that the state already has the power and leverage to exert itself more aggressively if lawmakers or the executive branch want to.

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I hear this sometimes, and Im interested in understanding more about where some of these fears are and what really are we talking about looking forward, if you wouldnt mind just indulging me a little bit, Bostar said.

Liz Standish, associate superintendent for business affairs at Lincoln Public Schools; Superintendent Ann Foster of Brady Public Schools; Grant Latimer, policy adviser to Gov. Jim Pillen; and State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, chair of the Legislatures Education Committee, from left, meet during a meeting of the School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Foster gave the example of autonomy in teacher recruitment and retention, such as in setting salaries according to the cost of living in Brady, a town of 400, or offering full family insurance. She suggested the commission define what local control means to help frame future conversations.

Schwartz said its also hard for the state to account for all variables in funding. He said local funding also means a higher degree of local accountability.

At the point at which a standardized funding formula is put in place, there could be some discrepancies that are maintained indefinitely, Schwartz said.

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Linehan said new legislation for K-12 schools could include similar built-in safety rails as community colleges, for schools to retain the ability to raise property taxes if the state doesnt fulfill its part of the deal. She and others echoed past statements that school boards would retain local decisions on how to use funding.

Bostar said interests wanting to micromanage schools will exist regardless of funding decisions, as he asked school officials not to fear the idea of receiving more state dollars.

I dont think your concern about the erosion of local control is misplaced, but I dont think you should pair that concern with funding, Bostar told fellow commissioners. I think that concern should be real, and it exists, but it doesnt necessarily mean anything related to funding.

Vice chair decision

The commissions decision on whom to elect vice chair could hint at what direction the commission goes next in its advisory role. That person would serve alongside Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher, whom lawmakers designated as chair when they created the commission.

Superintendent John Schwartz of Millard Public Schools, newly seleted vice chair of the School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Linehan nominated Briese, describing him as someone ag leaders trust. She also noted Brieses law degree and willingness to consider other taxes to fund schools since at least 2017, when they both joined the Legislature. He became treasurer in 2023.

Ag interests, a predominant Nebraska industry, often feature in property tax debates and can determine the fate of such legislation. Just days before the 2024 summer special session ended last August, tensions erupted, with Linehan warning ag leaders they had major wins in her eight years but still needed to broaden their coalition, such as with homeowners.

Superintendent Aaron Plas of Bennington Public Schools nominated Schwartz, praising his experience in Nebraska schools, big and small. Plas said Schwartz, the most recent Nebraska superintendent of the year, also knows TEEOSA forwards and backwards.

Schwartz was selected as vice chair in a 7-5 vote. Two members were absent, and one vacancy remains for an active public school teacher to be appointed by the governor.

Youre on the right track

One member of the public, Dave Welsch, a retired farmer who is president of the Milford School Board, urged the commission to consider aspirations to make Nebraskas tax policies competitive. While that might often focus on competition with other states, he said it could also include district-to-district tax rates.

Nebraska Education Commissioner Brian Maher of Lincoln talks to a staffer from the Nebraska Department of Education during the first meeting of the School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

One farmer, for instance, might need to sell a bushel of beans for $1 more just to pay for more property taxes, Welsch explained.

The school board president has worked with lawmakers for years on school funding legislation, including Hughes. Welsch said that once schools are equalized, the focus can turn to student investments.

Youre on the right track, Welsch told the commission. Keep rolling.

Maher, a former central Nebraska superintendent, told reporters he is hopeful for progress. He said nobody in the room voiced a desire to balance budgets on the backs of K-12 schools. Rather, he said the focus is on adequate school funding and supporting students and taxpayers.

Said Maher: I think if we all put our hearts and minds together, I think we can actually make some progress on the complexity that is school funding.

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EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Tim White this week joins Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian on Behind the Story to discuss the ongoing saga of Nicholas Alahverdian.

White is managing editor and chief investigative reporter at 12 News, and hes been covering Alahverdian for years leading up to his criminal trial that began this week in Utah.

Alahverdian, a conman from Rhode Island, was a longtime critic of the states child welfare agency until he got jammed up with the law and faked his own death in 2020.

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White discusses Alahverdians life in Rhode Island, his troubles with the law, getting discovered while using a fake identity in Scotland and his criminal trial in Utah.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the Stories We Wish We Wrote. They include (not all mentioned on air):

Kims picks

Elis picks

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Watch Behind the Story Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

Behind the Story is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Russia and Belarus plan to work out a plan for the use of nuclear weapons and Oreshnik missile systems during their joint Zapad-2025 exercises on 12-16 September.

Source: Belarusian state news outlet BelTA citing Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin

Details: Asked whether the exercises would include planning for the launch of nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik missile system, Khrenin said: "Of course, as part of the Zapad (West) exercises, we will work with our Russian colleagues on planning for the use of this type of weaponry."

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Khrenin repeated Russian narratives about the "situation" on Belaruss western and northern borders, citing the Wests alleged "militarisation" and "military activity".

He stressed that "nuclear weapons are capable of causing unacceptable damage to potential adversaries" but also noted that they are primarily "an important element of strategic deterrence".

Khrenin also claimed that NATO leaders are allegedly trying to use Zapad-2025 as a pretext for conducting their own exercises and threatened them with a "response".

"What is most concerning is the decision by the Polish military leadership to create a unit of more than 30,000-34,000 service personnel. In our view, that is an intimidating force. We must monitor it very carefully (and we will do so) and respond. If they show any aggression towards the Republic of Belarus, we have something to respond with."

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Why this matters: Before its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia built up its military presence in Belarus, explaining it as preparation for joint exercises. In February 2022, Russian troops attacked Ukraine, including from Belarusian territory, and Russia also launched ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine from Belarus.

Background:

In December 2024, Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin stated that Oreshnik systems could be deployed in Belarus in 2025 as part of Moscows threats to the West after Ukraine was granted permission to strike Russian targets with long-range weapons.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Vladimir Putins sabre-rattling with the Oreshnik missile is aimed solely at disrupting the efforts of President Trump to end the war.

Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Ukraine is developing its own air defence and missile system to deter potential Russian Oreshnik strikes.

In January, Lukashenko claimed that Belarus would receive the Oreshnik missile system from Russia "very soon", but in March he said in Moscow that the promised Oreshnik was still not in Belarus.

In July, Lukashenko said that Oreshnik would allegedly be deployed in Belarus by the end of the year.

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(KRON)  A specialty grocery store in Berkeley dedicated to Spanish and Portuguese food, wine and other goods is closing this week after almost 25 years and blaming President Trumps tariffs. The Spanish Table on San Pablo Avenue announced on its website that its final day will be Sunday Aug. 17.

The trade policy the President is pursuing is putting us out of business and will cost Americans jobs, the Spanish Table said in an Instagram post last week.

At present, 15% tariffs on European imports and a weaker dollar will raise prices by upwards of 35%, read a post on the Spanish Tables blog from company president, Bastian Schoell. The uncertainty of our administrations trade policies so far this year have also made direct imports, which make up 30% of our products, impossible and we are out of many goods we cant buy from others.

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The Spanish Table opened in Berkeley in the fall of 2001 and the Iberian food business later expanded with a second location in San Francisco. Described as the OG of Spanish Table shops, the Berkeley location was designed as an almacen, a big, warehouse-type store, in this case, filled with the best from Spain and Portugal.

Cinema chain hits back over lawsuit filed by Bay Area tech giant

After a good 24 2025 run, we are closing this store and will be focusing on our San Francisco location and partnering with other local Berkeley businesses to keep the Iberian food community intact, the Spanish Table wrote on its website.

The store will be going out with a bang with a closing party this Sunday, Aug. 17 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

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The Spanish Tables Clement Street location in SF opened in 2016 and will continue to serve the Inner Richmond neighborhood and online.

While this chapter ends, the Spanish Table continues in San Francisco and online, the store said in an Instagram post. The Spanish Table also said its working on Spanish food and wine pop-ups beginning in September.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
The family of a popular nursing assistant at a Tell City, Indiana, senior living facility says she was apprehended by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement earlier this month and could now face deportation, even though she entered the country legally, obtained a work visa and had an application for asylum under review.

ICE records show Maria Alexandra Rodriguez, 49, is currently housed in the Grayson County (Kentucky) Jail. Her offense is listed only as "U.S. Department of Homeland Security / ICE." She's one of several at the jail with that designation.

Rodriguez came to the United States in 2021 after leaving Venezuela amid the political and economic turmoil sparked by the regime of President Nicolas Maduro, who has ordered the arrests of political opponents and has overseen a country beset with food shortages and abuses against women and children, Amnesty International states.

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Rodriguez opposed all of that due to her "altruistic nature," her family says. And returning to Venezuela could put her in danger.

According to messages to the Courier & Press from her brother-in-law and sister, Rodriguez went with her husband to Indianapolis on Aug. 8 for an immigration appointment. She was waiting in the parking lot when her husband reportedly came outside and told her officials wanted to speak with her, as well.

"Upon entering, they took her documents and belongings and told her she was arrested for remaining in the U.S. illegally. She stated that she had all her immigration applications in order and had proof of those documents that (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) had given her," the statement from her family reads. "However, the ICE officer insisted (and) confused and intimidated her into signing a document, telling her that the document she was signing was to request asylum since she did not have any pending asylum applications and that the only ones who scheduled court dates for asylum courts were ICE.

"They showed her a blank screen on the system, insisting that if she did not sign immediately, she would be arrested."

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They said Rodriguez signed the document "under pressure." Officials then handcuffed her and transported to her to Grayson County. Her family says Rodriguez entered the country on a tourist visa, obtained a work permit, and had temporary protected status while her asylum application went through the system.

The Courier & Press reached out to ICE through its official media line Wednesday morning. They sent back an automated response.

"Thank you for contacting ICE Media," it read. "We have routed your query to the appropriate public affairs officer for handling."

Southwest Deputy Communications Chief Yasmeen Pitts O'Keefe later followed up asking for more information, but said ICE "(doesn't) comment on presumed deportations and/or dates."

Maria Alexandra Rodriguez

'The kindest soul'

Jerry Cottingham met Rodriguez at Oakwood Health Campus in Tell City, where she worked as a nursing assistant. She treated Cottingham's wife's mother, who was sent to the facility to recover after an operation.

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"Maria treated her so well and made sure we understood everything we needed to know to help in recovery," he said in an email to the Courier & Press, which he also sent to Indiana Senators Jim Banks and Todd Young, as well as 8th District Rep. Mark Messmer. "Maria even came to visit after my wife's mom recovered and went home."

That kind of generous spirit echoed through a bevy of social media comments Rodriguez's co-workers and friends have shared over the last few days.

In a Facebook post that's been shared more than 200 times, Oakwood registered nurse Jordan Crawford asked anyone who works with or knows Maria to write a letter to ICE "asking for reconsideration." Rodriguez's family plans to take each of those to their lawyer.

"She goes to EVERY immigration meeting, she has done EVERYTHING they have asked," Crawford's post reads. "... She has the kindest soul. She knows the residents like the back of her hand."

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The Courier & Press left multiple messages with Oakwood's executive director, but hadn't received a call back as of Wednesday morning.

Dozens of protesters gathered outside the federal courthouse in Downtown Evansville Tuesday, April 29, 2025, hours after a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation in the city.

ICE raids in Evansville and across the country

Rodriguez's apprehension mirrors others across the country as ICE ramps up deportation efforts  even against those who strive to follow every step of the country's complicated immigration system.

In some cases, ICE agents have waited outside immigration court hearings and arrested people as soon as they walked out, no matter whether their deportation cases have been dismissed or not. Agents in other raids often obscure their faces and roll up in unmarked vehicles.

ICE arrested more than a dozen people during an operation in Evansville on April 29, igniting a protest outside the federal courthouse. Attendees said some people who have immigrated to Evansville are scared to leave their homes, even if they came to the country legally through student visas or other means. Protesters boasted signs reading "hands off my neighbors," "abolish ICE," and "no human is illegal."

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In a message to the Courier & Press, Rodriguez's family said she's not getting the medication she needs for diabetes and hypertension at the Grayson County jail. They described her as a "punctual, responsible person ... with high ethics and values."

"Her network of friends is wide since she is a very spontaneous, extroverted person, sensitive to human and animal abuse," the message reads. "She is helpful, kind and helps everyone without any interest in return.

"... (She) has not only been content to work to send money to her immediate family. She has gone beyond her circle of family and close friends," it continues. "She was part of those who led a march saying, 'We want a more just and better future and life for all.' That is Maria Alexandra Rodriguez."

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Beloved Southern Indiana nursing assistant arrested by ICE
Ben Jealous, former NAACP president, former Democratic nominee for Maryland governor -- and now, former executive director of the Sierra Club after the organization's national board voted to terminate his contract. (File photo by Danielle E. Gaines/Maryland Matters)

The Sierra Clubs board voted unanimously to remove Executive Director Ben Jealous for cause, a month after he was placed on leave, according to an email sent Monday to the environmental nonprofits staff.

The vote came after an extensive evaluation of Jealous conduct, according to the email from board President Patrick Murphy. The email did not describe the particular reasons for Jealous ouster.

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Jealous, a former Democratic nominee for Maryland governor, was placed on leave last month over what a Sierra Club spokesperson would only describe as a personnel matter.

The Sierra Club leads with our values, Murphy wrote in Mondays email. Thats how we engage in communities across the country, how we fulfill our mission and achieve our goals, and how we interact with one another and our organization.

The decision the Board made was a difficult but principled one to uphold these values and ensure every individual at the Sierra Club is held equally accountable, with no special treatment or favor for those holding influence and power, his email went on to say.

In a statement issued through a spokesperson Tuesday, Jealous said that he had initiated a process under my contract to fight the termination.

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It is disheartening, unfortunate, but perhaps not surprising that the board has chosen an adversarial course that the facts so clearly cannot support, Jealous wrote in the statement.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Sierra Club spokesperson Jonathon Berman said the board determined Jealous engaged in conduct that constitutes cause under his employment agreement. the entire Board determined that it had no other option than to separate from him in order to protect the organization, its employees, its values, and its mission.

Mr. Jealous had an opportunity for a dignified exit and we are disheartened to see he has instead unfortunately chosen an adversarial course, Bermans statement said. Mr. Jealous challenge to the Boards unanimous cause determination has no merit. We are confident that Mr. Jealous will not prevail in any forum, whether public or private.

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Jealous tenure at the national nonprofit was tumultuous, including several rounds of layoffs and other moves that drew ire from the Progressive Workers Union, which represents Sierra Club workers.

Progressive Workers President Erica Dodt said in a statement Monday that the union was heartened to learn of Jealous termination for cause. Dodt cited the unions no-confidence vote against Jealous one year ago, which she says was spurred by his mismanagement of our organizations strategy and budget and his ongoing attacks on our union.

We hope that his departure will open the door for a stronger relationship between workers and management, and allow the Sierra Club to better focus our efforts on fighting the Trump administration and protecting the environment, Dodt wrote.

In a July 21 letter sent to Sierra Club leaders after Jealous was put on leave, Aaron Mair and Chad Hanson, former board members, defended Jealous, who is the nonprofits first Black executive director, and argued that he was treated differently than his white predecessors.

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The two argued, in part, that Jealous was unfairly blamed for actions he took to balance the Sierra Clubs budget, including layoffs and other cost-cutting measures.

The Sierra Clubs first Black Executive Director is being treated like a fall guy, unfairly blamed for Board and past management decisions made before he began his job, Mair and Hanson wrote.

In a letter to the Sierra Club board Tuesday, the unions Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Caucus, pushed back against what they called baseless accusations that PWUs attempts to hold Mr. Jealous and his team accountable are rooted in racism.

BIPOC staff and allies alike have been voicing our concerns about Mr. Jealouss leadership and actions, not because of his identity, but because of the impacts of his choices, reads the letter.

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The group argued that Jealous dismantled the Sierra Clubs equity department, and gutted other programs serving communities bearing environmental burdens. They also argued that layoffs overseen by Jealous disproportionately impacted staff of color, who made up less than a third of the organization but accounted for nearly half of the layoffs in 2025, according to the unions data.

In its letter, the caucus argued that dismissing Jealous is just the first among many steps the board should take to repair the organization. It called for workplace morale and worker retention studies, as well as a voice in the hiring process for the nonprofits next executive director.

Jealous, a former leader of the NAACP, ran unsuccessfully to unseat Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) in 2018. After the race, Jealous took on consulting work, including for the Juul e-cigarette company, before he took the leadership role at People For the American Way, and then the Sierra Club.

In his statement issued Tuesday, Jealous touted a list of achievements during his tenure with Sierra Club.

While I was recruited at a time of significant, diverse challenges for the club, I was able to create the most diverse leadership team in the clubs history, Jealous wrote. The board and I strengthened a weak financial base, crafted a progressive union contract, dramatically increased chapter directors in red states, and increased our advocacy capacity by building a stronger field department.
Hundreds of Berliners gathered to take a dip in the Spree river Tuesday to protest a 100-year-old ban on swimming in the city's main waterway.

Billed by organisers as a "swim demonstration", the gathering saw swimmers cool off from the summer heat with colourful bathing costumes and even the odd inflatable raft against the backdrop of Berlin's famous cathedral and TV tower.

While Berlin's outer districts boast plentiful opportunities for wild swimming, mostly in the city's lakes, doing so in the Spree has been banned since 1925.

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The ban was lifted briefly on Tuesday for the demonstration, but activists want a stretch of the river called the Spree canal to be permanently open to the public.

The same spot was popular with bathers in the early twentieth century before city authorities decided pollution from the expanding metropolis had made the water too dirty.

While industrial pollution is no longer a problem, sewage is still periodically discharged into the river when rainfall overwhelms the city's drainage system.

Proponents of swimming in the Spree say that technology already exists that would permit water quality to be monitored to ensure it is safe for swimming.

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Alisan Yasar, a 28-year-old lawyer, told AFP after emerging from the Spree that the swim was "wonderful" but admitted that "you do have to fight against certain preconceptions -- as a Berliner you have it in your head that you just don't go into the Spree".

Dilara, a 30-year-old marketing professional, was also pleasantly surprised at what was her first time in the river, despite living close by and jogging past it "hundreds of times".

"I went in slowly and kept my head above water but then went all the way in," she said, adding: "I didn't want to come out!"

The idea of reopening a section of the Spree has won the backing of some members of Berlin's city assembly but as with many infrastructure projects in the German capital, the idea has been beset by delays and disagreements over the necessary infrastructure.

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Some have also objected to the cost that opening the river to bathers would entail, saying it's a luxury that cash-strapped Berlin can ill afford.

Katrin Androschin, one of the organisers of the demonstration, insisted it is "not a luxury to make a waterway that's already on hand open to the public".

She pointed out that a central location for river swimming would help avoid "people becoming sick because they have problems with the heat due to climate change".

Perhaps the most famous recent example of a city-centre river being re-opened for bathers is the Seine in Paris.

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Its waters were cleaned for the Paris 2024 Olympics and last month three swimming zones across the city were opened to the public for the first time since 1923.

Stretches of the Isar river in Munich have also been made safe for bathing after UV disinfection measures were introduced in the city's wastewater treatment plants.

jsk/vbw/gv
The European leaders' call with US President Donald Trump ahead of his upcoming Alaska summit with Russia's Vladimir Putin set a sign of European unity, German government sources said on Wednesday.

The US side had repeatedly asked the Europeans in recent days what they expected from the negotiations in the city of Anchorage in the northernmost US state, they said following the call.

The Europeans succeeded in giving a joint, clear and concise response in their conversation with Trump and his Vice President JD Vance, they said.

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It was agreed with Trump that he would promptly inform the Europeans after the meeting with Putin, the sources said.

Trump is expected to first inform Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and then the European core group, which includes Germany, on Friday night or on Saturday morning.

The German government intends to keep this European-Ukrainian group closely united to respond swiftly, unitedly, clearly and decisively to the outcome from Anchorage, they said.

The German government sources spoke positively about the appearance of US Vice President Vance, known as a critic of Europe, at an online meeting of the so-called Coalition of the Willing of close supporters of Ukraine following the conversation with Trump.

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Around 20 leaders participated in this round, including those from Japan, Canada and Australia.

Vance summarized the US position very constructively and explained how interested they were in an honest statement from the Europeans about their sore points and negotiation lines - that is, that they did not want negotiations without the Europeans or Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be in Berlin on Wednesday to personally take part in video conferences on the upcoming meeting in Alaska between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump over the war in Ukraine.

Zelensky is expected in the German capital around midday, dpa learned from government sources, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosting him at the Chancellery.

The talks come days before the high-stakes summit in Anchorage from which Kiev and its European partners have been sidelined.

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Zelensky's press spokesman Serhii Nykyforov confirmed the trip to Berlin on Ukrainian television.

The video conferences with European leaders were initiated by Merz, with the aim of establishing a common position with Trump before his meeting on Friday with Putin.

Merz and Zelensky are set to hold bilateral discussions over lunch before holding talks with European allies at 2 pm (1200 GMT). The expected participants include the leaders of France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

About an hour later, a second online discussion will be held with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance, before Merz and Zelensky are due to give statements in Berlin at around 4 pm.

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The German leader also plans to update the members of the Coalition of the Willing, an alliance of some 30 countries supporting Ukraine led by Britain and France, on the outcome of the talks with Trump and Vance.

European governments fear the TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected.

Trump has described the Alaska meeting as an effort to move toward ending the war, now in its fourth year, including possible "land swaps."

Merz, Zelensky and their European allies are expected to try to extract a promise from the US president to refrain from making any deals with Russia without involving Ukraine and its European partners.

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German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius previously said Wednesday's talks were aimed at discussing further options to increase pressure on Moscow. Leaders are also set to talk about preparations for potential peace negotiations.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer meanwhile reiterated his call for Ukraine to be provided with security guarantees in case of an agreement.
The German government has rejected a report by the US State Department that claims Germany has restricted freedom of expression.

"There is no censorship in Germany," Deputy Government Spokesman Steffen Meyer stressed in Berlin on Wednesday. "We have a very high level of freedom of expression in Germany, and we will continue to defend it in every form."

Jens Spahn, head of the conservative parliamentary group, also rejected the accusations from Washington, stating on Welt TV: "Everyone can say what they think in Germany. This is a free country."

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The US government's human rights reports are published annually and describe the situation in numerous countries.

This year's report released on Tuesday said that the situation in Germany deteriorated in 2024, with claims of censorship due to internet platforms being required to delete hate messages.

"The human rights situation in Germany worsened during the year," said an executive summary of the report's Germany entry.

"Significant human rights issues included restrictions on freedom of expression and credible reports of crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by anti-Semitism."

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Government spokesman Meyer defended the work of the ruling coalition, stating, "The government fights anti-Semitism in all its forms."

The US report attributes most anti-Semitic acts to neo-Nazis and other extremist individuals or groups. However, some have expressed doubts about this and point to the large numbers of migrants from Syria, Afghanistan and Turkey - where anti-Semitism is common - who now live in Germany.

Additionally, a newspaper article from 2018 is cited in the US report, which claimed that anti-Semitic crimes with unclear backgrounds were automatically attributed to the far right. However, this is outdated.

Since early 2024, the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) has been categorizing anti-Semitic acts with unclear backgrounds under a new category "other assignment." Of the 6,236 anti-Semitic crimes last year, 3,016 were attributed to allegedly far-right perpetrators according to BKA statistics.

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The US report stated further that the German government "took some credible steps to investigate, prosecute, and punish officials who committed human rights abuses."

In February, US Vice President JD Vance accused Germany and other European allies of restricting free speech and marginalizing far-right parties, including the Alternative for Germany (AfD).

Vance had even threatened during his election campaign to withdraw US support for NATO if Europeans acted against content on the online platform X owned by tech billionaire Elon Musk, urging them to adhere to the US interpretation of freedom of speech.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose conservatives won February's elections ahead of the AfD, has repeatedly said he opposes US interference in domestic politics and called Vance's statements "intrusive."

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The report on Germany relating to 2023 had not highlighted any significant changes regarding the human rights situation but did flag some crimes against members of ethnic and religious groups, including Muslims.

Anti-Semitism was also mentioned, as were crimes involving violence or the threat of violence against members of the LGBT+ community.

Rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch criticized the US State Department's country reports, accusing the Trump administration of mischaracterizing some records of abuses and omitting others to fit its political aims.

US broadcaster CNN cited sources as saying that the report, which had been drafted before US President Donald Trump took office in January, was significantly pared down by the new administration.
blue school hallway lockers and checkered tile in high school students in the background (down-sampled to increase sharpness)

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission (APCSC) Monday denied a charter schools application for a new campus in Birmingham for a second time.

The Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School (AAHS) opened in Bessemer in 2022. The schools founder, Ruben Morris, previously applied to have the commission approve a new location in May and was denied.

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AAHS is open to students in 9th through 12th grade interested in aviation, aerospace and other STEM pathways. The school graduated their first class of 13 students including three student pilots and four mechanics. AAHS ended the previous school year with 146 students enrolled.

Morris told commissioners Monday that he planned to open a new AAHS location at the Birmingham Southern College campus and collaborate with Miles College to increase academic rigor and talked about expanding coursework to include artificial intelligence.

Well utilize an already existing dual enrollment agreement to act as a key catalyst expanding access to advanced computer science education for students, Morris said.

Morris told the APCSC he had over 80 families interested in a Birmingham location. But commissioners were concerned he wouldnt have enough enrollment for a new campus. The commission said the Bessemer location failed to meet the projected enrollment of 365 students.

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The big elephant in the room is if you fail to meet enrollment when you first opened, and youve just said more than once that you have 80-plus students ready, 80-plus students is a long way from 145, 165, or even 365 [students], Sharon Porterfield, a member of the commission, said.

Morris said the Bessemer school is not allowed to use the upstairs portion of the building in which it operates and is not allowed to place portable classrooms on the property.

Commissioners also said they were worried about the retention of students at AAHS due to the school starting the year with about 170 to 200 students and ending with fewer than that.

Morris told commissioners student retention at the Bessemer campus could be low in part because some students leave once they arent selected to be a student to fly planes and receive a private pilot license, while others choose to leave because they dont fit the culture of the school.

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But commissioners from the APCSC still remained concerned about enrollment rates and worried about how a new campus would affect the enrollment at the Bessemer location.

I worry a bit that opening one school, at least at this point, before you build enrollment, up at that Bessemer campus and get to capacity and have waiting lists. That it could actually hurt that Bessemer campus in enrollment, and in growth and strength, Commissioner Cynthia McCarthy said.

Birmingham City Schools also urged for the denial of the charter school due to a lack of success in major areas.

Your original ruling was based on well-documented deficiencies across all major areas, Cedric Tatum, a representative for Birmingham City Schools said. Including the educational plan, the operational plan and financial plan. And also based on the data that was available at the time.

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Tatum said there was also no demand from the community for AAHS in Birmingham and students in the area did not show they were ready to attend the school.

No parents or community members attended the public hearings that we provided, and there was no indication that there were any students that were ready to actually attend this school in Birmingham City, he said.

AAHS will have their first day of school in Bessemer for the 2025-2026 school year on Aug. 18.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for a ban on lawmakers trading individual stocks, taking a shot at former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in the process.

I am going to start pushing for a single-stock trading ban, because it is the credibility of the House and the Senate, Bessent said Wednesday on Bloomberg TV.

You look at some of these eye-popping returns  whether it is Rep. Pelosi, Sen. Wyden  every hedge fund would be jealous of them. And the American people deserve better than this, Bessent added.

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His comments come as momentum for a ban on members of Congress trading individual stocks has ramped up amid increasing public scrutiny of stock trades. Current law prohibits insider trading by lawmakers and requires more disclosures, but critics say the law does not go far enough.

People shouldnt come to Washington to get rich, they should come to serve the American people, and it brings down trust in the system because I can tell you that if any private citizen traded this way, the SEC [Securities and Exchange Commission] would be knocking on their door, Bessent said.

Pelosi has come under arguably the most scrutiny for highly successful trades made by her husband, Paul Pelosi, which she is required to report in financial disclosures.

Pelosi spokesperson Ian Krager told The Hill in response to Bessent: Speaker Pelosi does not own any stocks and has no knowledge or subsequent involvement in any transactions.

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She has also endorsed a bill that advanced in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee last month that would bar not only members, their spouses, and their dependent children from buying and trading stocks, but also the president and vice president. Since the requirement would not apply until the start of the elected officials next terms, it would exempt President Trump if enacted.

Trump has said he would support a stock trade ban, but he attacked Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) for his support of the bill. Hawley later said Trump was under the mistaken impression it would apply to him.

Over in the House, members of both parties have called for stock trade bans, with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) pledging to start a discharge petition to force a vote on another stock trade ban bill.

Wydens stock portfolio, meanwhile, saw a stunning 123.8 percent gain in 2024, according to data from the financial analysis platform Unusual Whales reported in the Salem Business Journal.

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Wyden, in response to Bessents comments, pointed to a report from the New York Times that the Office of Government Ethics had not fully complied with an agreement to divest his financial assets.

Nobody working for Donald Trump has any business pretending to care about ethics or the stock trading ban I support. If Scott Bessent gave a damn about the public interest, why is he holding a massive farm that puts him in a position to gain from Trumps trade deals with China? Wyden posted on X.

Bessent is fuming that I blew the whistle on the fact that hes hiding a huge Epstein file at the Treasury Department. Thousands of pages worth of Epsteins bank records with names. Until he releases it, hes just running interference for Epsteins pedophile ring, Wyden added.

Its not only Democrats who have come under scrutiny for stock trading, though.

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A report from the House Ethics Committee last month found that Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) violated the lower chambers code of conduct when his wife traded stocks for a company in Kellys district after the congressman learned nonpublic information about the firm.

And Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.) has caught heat for continuing to trade stocks despite saying he wants to ban member stock trading.

Bresnahan has introduced a stock trading ban bill and says he has no involvement with the trades that his financial advisers have made on his behalf. While he has said he wants to keep his current financial advisers and create a blind trust that would put a more stringent firewall between him and those trades, he has found problems in crafting that plan with the House Ethics Committee.

Updated at 5:31 p.m. EDT

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SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  The Beulah fire burning along the Utah-Wyoming border has now crossed 4,000 acres and is still uncontained, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

There are about 462 fire personnel fighting the fire along with 8 helicopters, 13 engines and 9 fire crews. Officials say they expect a slight chance of dry thunderstorms over the Beulah Fire area this afternoon. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for tomorrow due to dry fuel conditions and increasing chances for thunderstorms. Crews expect fire behavior to moderate, but erratic winds may occur near thunderstorms.

Officials say numerous standing dead trees in the area are posing a challenge to firefighters. In the High Uintas, beetle-killed trees have been dead for about 15 years, and the extreme hazard of falling, fire-weakened trees is preventing safe engagement of firefighters directly on the fires edge, crews said in a press release.

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Fire crews are now working on a more indirect approach to battle the fire. Firefighters on the ground are assisted by helicopters using buckets of water to cool the fire and contain the northernmost spot fire. Crews say they have built a solid contingency containment line along the Christmas Meadows Trailhead.

Crews say they have also begun clearing brush and vegetation around structures and along roadways throughout the area, and have begun to install water handling equipment and sprinkler systems.

Today, officials say they will be working on moving their equipment to a place where they can remove fuels along the roadside to create a broad indirect containment line along the North Slope Road.

Latest headlines:

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A bill allowing taxes to take on more flexible plans was approved by the Delaware legislature on Aug. 12 and was signed by Gov. Meyer on the early morning on Aug. 13. The payment plans would apply to this year's tax bill only.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha, allows at least three equal payments toward tax debt and empowers the county to set it up. An amendment to the bill from Newark Democrat Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton also added protections against real and personal property for compliant taxpayers within the plan.

Anyone who's tax bill increased by more than $300 from the previous year is eligible for a payment plan. The bill sunsets in three years.

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The bill stands to protect taxpayers from late penalties, while also allowing school districts the opportunity to take an advance of allocated funding from the state if flexibility results in gaps in expected cash flow.

It passed in the House with 35 votes largely along party lines. It passed the Senate unanimously less than an hour later. Now, it has Gov. Meyer's signature.

For Chukwuocha, the bill is a compromise between taxpayers adjusting to suddenly higher tax bills and school districts that need revenue this school year. The Wilmington Democrat vowed to come back to Dover in January with more long-term fixes in the wake of the assessment.

"We're going to come back in January with a whole package of bills that tries to remedy some of the failures," he said to a contentious House chamber.

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Christina School District Chief Financial Officer Bob Vacca said this will slow receipts to schools, but he does not yet know how substantial that slowdown would be.

LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS? What passed in session so far? Delaware Senate OKs 'immediate review' of reassessments

Also, in an eleventh-hour amendment from House Minority Leader Rep. Timothy Dukes, payments would be allowed more often than monthly. Another amendment proposed by Dukes, one to require people on the payment plan to be up on their taxes to qualify, was killed on the floor.

Tension was already high.

'Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures'

From left, Rep. Bryan Shupe, House Minority Leader Timothy Dukes and House Minority Whip Jeffrey Spiegelman have a chat prior to the start of the special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

Moments before the bill was to be considered, a motion sought to suspend the rules.

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It was followed by more than an hour of debate surrounding legislative process. Republican members of the House said public input and the legislative process was bypassed by the emergency session, with public comment, committee hearings and more cast aside. Democrats responded by saying there was an urgent need for short-term fixes on tax bills.

Monologues and personal quips filled the chamber, concerning the role of leadership, bipartisanship and constituent engagement, all after the payment plan bill was up for consideration.

"What troubles me the most is the lack of respect to Delawareans and the disservice we are doing to them," Rep. Lyndon Yearick, a Camden Republican, said on the House floor.

Still waiting on that appeal? Tax refund bill to aid Delaware taxpayers passes House

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In response to many concerns, House Speaker Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown said: "Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures," while couching more reform to come in regular session.

Once the suspension of rules cleared, new amendments started flying around the House floor on blue sheets of paper. These added to a slightly chaotic scene after each vote.

But, just before 8 p.m., the entire bill passed its first chamber. By 8:40, it left the Senate. By 12:30 a.m. the next morning, Meyer signed it into law.

Email any questions or experiences regarding the 2025 Delaware property tax reassessment to Shane Brennan at slbrennan@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Your next Delaware property tax bill could be paced out in plans
The week after July 4 is apparently a big one for billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg and Bob Iger.

That's when dozens meet for a massive annual summit coined as a billionaire summer camp. Business leaders from across the country fly into the Sun Valley Friedman Memorial Airport in Sun Valley, Idaho.

According to Business Insider, the airport may see as many as 190 aircraft arrive on the Tuesday following July 4, just about double what the airport usually welcomes.

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Tim Burke, the director of the airport, told Business Insider that the event leads to "the busiest week of the year here in the Wood River Valley."

The annual summit is intended to bring CEOs together to discuss business and future power plays. But its carbon footprint is difficult to ignore. The influx of nearly 200 jets into a small-town airport highlights how many people  particularly the ultra-wealthy  prioritize convenience over the planet.

A 2023 report by the Institute for Policy Studies found that the top 1% of people may be responsible for half of all aviation emissions.

Another report from the European Federation for Transport and Environment stated that private jets may be up to 14 times more polluting than commercial planes.

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That all adds up fast when dozens of private jets pile into a single rural airport. But it's certainly not the first case of public frustration over luxury travel and its environmental cost.

Taylor Swift received plenty of backlash for taking numerous flights on two private jets during her 2023 tour. Jeff Bezos also drew criticism when he added an $80 million jet to his collection.

Some of the criticism is because everyday consumers and families are encouraged to change their habits, like driving less or cutting energy use, to help the planet.

Do you think billionaires spend their money wisely? Definitely No way Some do Most do Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

On a Facebook post from news anchor Maggie O'Mara (@MaggieOMaraJournalist), one commenter asked if the point of the summit was to "laugh at the rest of us?"

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Some alternatives could prove healthier for the planet if people can encourage the top 1% to get on board.

For example, sustainable aviation fuel can reduce planet-warming gas pollution for aircrafts by as much as 94%, according to the Department of Energy. Some aviation leaders are also experimenting with hybrid-electric aircraft, which can use about 5% less fuel than standard aircraft.

Supporting companies pushing for change, like those investing in sustainable airline fuel and low-emissions aircraft, could help move the industry in a cleaner direction.

It may also signal to billionaires that strong leadership means taking responsibility for actions that impact the environment.

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.
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Members of the Michigan Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee took the next step in an effort to ban non-consensual deep fake pornography, approving tweaks to the policy and voting to return the policies to the Senate floor on Tuesday morning.

If approved by both chambers, House Bills 4047 and 4048 would place criminal penalties on the creation and distribution of deep fakes depicting individuals in an intimate or sexual context, and would allow individuals to take civil action over the non-consensual creation of deepfake pornography.

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The six members of the committee in attendance voted unanimously to approve substitutes for the bills and to send the legislation back to the Senate floor for a vote.

Following the meeting, Committee Chair Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) told reporters the substitutes for the bill were intended to further clarify that companies whose technology is used to create deepfakes are not held liable and that the bills sponsors, Reps. Matt Bierlein (R-Vassar) and Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing), had given the substitutes their blessing.

While a previous effort to ban non-consensual deepfake porn was left on the table during lame duck session in 2024, Chang said the policy was fairly bipartisan and that she hoped the Legislature could bring the bills across the finish line.

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MILWAUKEE, Wis. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is deploying to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where torrential rains and devastating flooding inundated the area over the weekend.

Reports have called the event a 1,000-year flood, with property damage to hundreds of homes.

What is happening? Milwaukee area recovers from record rain and flooding

Across the U.S., we have seen a tragic string of natural disasters taking place. This weekend in Milwaukee, the residents were the latest to witness the devastating effects of historic storms and the power that flood waters can have. Our chaplains are heading to Wisconsin to provide spiritual and emotional care to residents affected by the recent floods. At a time when all hope seems lost, we will let them know true hope can be found through Jesus Christ. Josh Holland, international director of the BG-RRT

The BG-RRT is deploying in coordination with Samaritans Purse, the Christian disaster relief organization also headed by Franklin Graham.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  The Birmingham City Council approved an additional $1.2 million Tuesday for the citys Home for All pilot program, which aims to provide transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness.

The new funding brings the citys total investment in the project to $2.4 million. The plan calls for the construction of 14 micro-shelters across from the Faith Chapel Cares Center.

According to the proposal, the money will go toward construction, ground improvements, general requirements, prefabricated structures, furniture, fixtures, equipment and contractor costs. The project is a partnership between the city and Faith Chapel Cares Center.

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Having individuals living unsheltered in our community is something the taxpayers here face the responsibility of paying for, said Birmingham City Council President Darrell OQuinn. We have been talking about this for a significant amount of time and trying to get at least one of these sites across the finish line, so that what weve all been imagining and talking about could become reality.

1 killed, 1 injured in shooting on 5th Avenue North

While no visible construction has taken place yet, Birmingham Director of Community Development Meghan Venable-Thomas said progress is underway.

All of those medical providers, social workers, the food support, the laundry services  all of those things that are really going to make this program sing  are what was included in that operational budget, Venable-Thomas said.

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The city expects the micro-shelter site to be completed by the end of 2025.

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala (WIAT) - Alabamas municipal election is two weeks away, and Birminghams mayoral race is heating up.

Voter concerns ahead of the mayoral race in Jasper

Radio station 104.1 WJLD FM hosted these top Birmingham mayoral candidates in a debate Tuesday night at Carver Theatre:

Brian K. Rice

Frank Woodson

Juandalynn Givan

Lashunda Scales

Randall Woodfin (Incumbent)

There are a total of nine candidates running for mayor. The radio station chose those five candidates as the top candidates based on public records, fundraising, and consistent visibility in Birmingham communities.

Monetary Contributions raised so far

Brian K. Rice  $18,483.00

Frank Woodson  $8,983.13

Juandalynn Givan  $196,650.00

Lashunda Scales  $38,393.83

Randall Woodfin  $1,431,919.36

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The other four mayoral candidates  Jerimy Littlepage, David Russell, Marilyn James-Johnson, and Kamu Marlon Afrika, were not present for 104.1 WJLD FMs Birmingham Mayoral Debate.

Kamu Marlon Afrikas campaign has raised $9,466.00. The other three candidates do not have any campaign finance records listed on the Alabama Secretary of States website.

How much money each campaign has spent so far

Brian K. Rice  $13,312.50

Frank Woodson  $2,548.00

Juandalynn Givan  $60,676.82

Lashunda Scales  $30,289.50

Randall Woodfin  $1,141,371.45

While Tuesdays mayoral debate was not open to the public, it was livestreamed on 104.1 WJLD FM, the radio stations Facebook page, and YouTube.

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All five candidates took the stage at a little after 7:00 p.m., and one by one gave their opening statement, and the debate opened rather heated.

I want to be very clear about whats going to happen tonight, Im going to call out any lie  correction, I will fact check every single lie tonight because the city of Birmingham deserves the truth, Woodfin said.

After Woodfins opening statement, the moderator said candidates could rebuttal  which happened a lot, primarily between Woodfin, Givan, and Scales.

One of the questions asked to the candidates is how would they bring in more money for the Citys 99 neighborhoods. Here is how they answered:

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It was this mayor who literally came in when he got elected, and wanted to cut the neighborhood funding totally out of the budget. I will streamline the process. Youre not going to be waiting six months, 12 months, three, four years and then Im going to blame you for why youre not spending your money, Scales said.

I told you there would be lies and heres another example of one. We did not cut funding for neighborhoods. Theyve been the same since Ive been the mayor. Theres a combined $3 million plus dollars in all neighborhood funds, Woodfin said.

The first thing that I would do is cut some of those $170,000 and $180,000 and $200,000 plus dollar salaries at the city of Birmingham, for which certain leaders said 8 years ago that would be the first thing that they would do, but they didnt, Givan said.

As mayor, were going to have a citizen participation plan that needs to be funded, and I will do that. Woodson said.

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We must put the people first, and thats why my focus is economy and ethics. I am committed to integrity, Rice said.

Watch the full archived debate here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42.
(The Center Square)  Black bear hunting is now legal in Florida, after a state commission on Wednesday approved a limited program in response to a rising population of the animals in the state as a result of conservation programs.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted to allow hunting in four of the states seven bear management areas.

The number of permits will be limited to 187 and each permit only allows hunters to kill one bear. Permits will be issued in a random drawing with hunters 18 and older eligible to enter.

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I am proud that Florida is joining the majority of states that manage black bears with regulated hunting, commission chairman Rodney Baretto said in a statement. The components of the hunt are conservative and prioritize conservation, with a limited number of permits only being issued in the areas of the state with the largest bear populations.

In the 1970s, there were only a few hundred black bears in Florida but the number has now increased to an estimated 4,000, the state said. The state describes the increase in the bear population one of Floridas most successful conservation efforts.

Regulated hunting of bears in Florida started in the 1930s, but was halted in 1994. It reopened in the fall of 2015 for one season and has been illegal since then.

A limited hunting program will help the state manage the bear population and keep it from becoming too large, the state said.

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Slowing population growth will help balance population numbers with suitable habitat, and hunting is an important and effective tool that is used to manage wildlife populations across the world, the state said on its website.

Wednesdays decision was criticized by some environmental groups, including the Sierra Club Florida.

Today  in direct defiance of public opinion, science, and its own wildlife data  the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted to reinstate black bear hunting in Florida, the Sierra Club said in a statement.

The last legal hunt in 2015 resulted in the killing of 300 bears in two days, according to the Sierra Club.

Sierra Club Florida has opposed the hunt as cruel, unnecessary, and ineffective, with FWCs own research confirming that protecting and restoring habitat  not trophy hunting  is the proven way to support healthy bear populations, the organization said.
Black civil rights leaders and the mayors of several cities on Tuesday denounced the deployment of the National Guard to the nations capital to combat crime, calling it fundamentally grandstanding and a federal coup.

And by suggesting that other cities, also run by Black mayors, may be next, President Donald Trump was playing the worst game of racially divisive politics, one rights leader said.

Trump announced Monday that he would deploy 800 guard members to Washington, D.C., suggesting that the same could happen in New York City, Baltimore, Chicago and Oakland, California.

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When you walk down the street, youre going to see police or youre going to see FBI agents, Trump said about Washington on Monday. And we will bring in the military if its needed.

Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League, said the presidents actions and words were racially polarizing, considering crime rates in these cities are largely declining.

This is a distraction at a time when these cities deserve credit because crime and violence are down in most American cities right now, and this is trying to distract from that success, and in effect, create a de facto police state in these cities, Morial told NBC News.

Hes playing the worst game of racially divisive politics, and thats all it is, Morial said.

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The Rev. Al Sharpton, the civil rights leader and head of the National Action Network, said in a statement that the people of Washington, D.C.  especially those living on the streets, who need the most care  will suffer, alongside the core principles of our Democracy.

And NAACP President Derrick Johnson questioned the declaration of an emergency in D.C., calling it a federal coup.

The White House responded to the criticisms in a statement to NBC News: There is nothing divisive about cracking down on crime in our nations capital to make it safer and more beautiful for all residents and visitors from all around the world, said White House assistant press secretary Taylor Rogers. Instead of criticizing the Presidents lawful actions to Make DC Safe Again, Democrat-run cities plagued by violent crime should focus on cleaning up their own streets. This is why Democrats continue to be so unpopular among everyday Americans  they think the President of the United States cracking down on crime in our nations capital is a bad thing.

Trump federalized the Metropolitan Police Department over the weekend and called the nations capital one of the most dangerous cities in the world. It followed the fatal shooting of a congressional intern in July and the carjacking of a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer in D.C. last week, resulting in the arrest of two teenagers.

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Even with these violent acts, crime in D.C., has been declining for years and is currently at a 30-year low, according to the Justice Department. Nationwide, violent crime has declined, specifically murders, rape, aggravated assault and robbery, according to data released last week by the FBI.

Black Americans are four times more likely to experience homelessness in their lifetimes than white Americans, according to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities.

The D.C. police union, citing staffing shortages and mismanagement, said it supported the federal takeover, but only in a limited, temporary capacity that resulted in a better resourced department.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said Trumps move, which he had hinted at for months, is unsettling and unprecedented. The administration forced the removal of the Black Lives Matter street painting that had been prominent in the city since 2020 by threatening to hold back millions in funding if it remained.

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On Monday, Bowser said that the citys police chief maintains authority over the police force. But Trump said that he had appointed the administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency, Terry Cole, as the head of the Metropolitan Police Department.

Morial said that while many National Guards are his friends, this is not an assignment they were trained for. This is not an assignment they signed up for. Theyre being used as political pawns.

What the White House should be doing is restoring the SNAP cuts and restoring the Medicaid cuts, which are going to do damage to Washington, D.C., and other urban communities, Morial said.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott was not happy Trump mentioned his city as a potential place where the National Guard would be deployed.

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This is the latest effort by the president to distract from the issues he should be focused on  including the roller coaster of the U.S. economy thanks to his policies, Scott said in a statement Monday. When it comes to public safety in Baltimore, he should turn off the right-wing propaganda and look at the facts.

Homicides are down 28% in Baltimore this year alone, reaching the lowest level of any year on record, with overall crime rates lower than its been in more than 50 years. We still have real work to do to build on this progressbut that work starts and ends here in Baltimore with the local, state, and federal partners who have gotten us this far.

And as Scott pointed out, its not just Baltimore. In Chicago, violent crime also is down by more than 30% and shootings almost 40%. Mayor Brandon Johnson said the dramatic reductions occurred even as Trump cut $158 million in funding for violence prevention programs in cities like Chicago, as well as Los Angeles, New York, D.C. and Baltimore.

Those cuts, he said, are on top of the Trump administration dismantling the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and terminating hundreds of grants for anti-violence programs across the country.

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If President Trump wants to help make Chicago safer, he can start by releasing the funds for anti-violence programs that have been critical to our work to drive down crime and violence, Johnson said. Sending in the National Guard would only serve to destabilize our city and undermine our public safety efforts.

The mayor of Savannah, Georgia, Van R. Johnson II, president of the African American Mayors Association, said that while he respects the federal governments responsibility over ensuring national security, deploying the National Guard in D.C. may not be the most productive approach, especially when local leaders and law enforcement are already making significant strides in reducing crime and improving community trust.

Johnson implored the Trump administration to work with mayors and to support solutions that strengthen law enforcement partnerships and community engagement.

Republicans backed Trumps move. Rep. James Comer, of Kentucky, chair of the House oversight committee, said in a statement: For years, the D.C. Councils radical soft-on-crime agenda has emboldened criminals and put public safety at risk in our nations capital.

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Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, of New York, the House Democratic leader, vehemently disagreed, saying the action will be a negative force against the citys youth and homeless population.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Blaine man convicted for running $7 million Medicaid fraud scheme originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

Abdifatah Yusufs agency, Promise Health Services, LLC, did not have a building and operated out of a mailbox for years. But still, he claimed to provide millions in assistance to Medicaid recipients through their Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program.

That was all a lie. On Tuesday, a Hennepin County jury found Yusuf guilty on six counts of theft by swindle. He is set to be sentenced at a later date.

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In a news release, the Minnesota Attorney General Office said that Yusuf and his family members used Promise to "fraudulently obtain Medicaid funds by billing for services not provided, services that were billed based on false documentation, services that were over billed, services that were billed but lacked any documentation to support the services, and kickbacks provided to recipients to induce them to receive 'services' from the agency.

Tony Webster, Flickr

With Yusuf in charge, Promise stole more than $7 million from the federal Medicaid program. Of those millions, $42,000 was spent at luxury car dealers, $80,000 at luxury clothing stores, and $387,000 in cash was withdrawn.

Stealing money meant for poor peoples healthcare and using it to buy luxury cars and designer clothes is as shameful and disgraceful as it gets, said Attorney General Keith Ellison in a statement.

I am committed to recovering as much of the money he stole from taxpayers as possible."

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The case was prosecuted by the Minnesota Attorney Generals Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

This year, Attorney General Ellison asked the legislature for more money to fight Medicaid fraud. That request was denied.

Related: Minnesota DHS terminating Housing Stabilization Services amid fraud probe

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Six men and three women have died in a blast at an explosives factory near the Brazilian city of Curitiba, in southern Parana state, emergency officials say.

The explosion happened on Tuesday morning local time when a number of people were on shift in the factory.

Seven people were also injured and emergency personnel with sniffer dogs searched for the nine missing workers, but given the devastating damage at the site, Parana's security minister later announced that there was "no longer any hope of finding survivors".

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The company that owns the factory, Enaex, said it was investigating what could have caused the explosion.

The blast in Quatro Barras, near the state capital, Curitiba, happened just before 06:00 local time (09:00 GMT).

Residents from nearby towns reported being woken up by the sound.

"Within a radius of approximately 1.5km (0.9 miles), we have houses that were hit, with broken windows, damaged structures, and a huge shock wave," a spokeswoman for the fire department said.

She added that the blast had opened up a crater at the site.

Enaex makes explosives for civilian purposes used in construction and mining.

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The firm expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and said it would work with the relevant authorities to clarify what had caused the explosion.

The local authorities said that the firm had all the necessary licences to operate at the site, where it had been operating for five decades.
The Brief

Angel Santiago, a legally blind Chicago man, is searching for his missing 14-year-old dachshund mix, Bam Bam, who disappeared from his backyard in early June.

Offers of help have poured in from across the country, with a GoFundMe surpassing $10,000 and PETA adding up to $5,000 to the $1,000 reward for Bam Bams safe return.

Volunteers plan to pass out flyers this Saturday, and anyone with tips can contact Chicago police, call 1-866-597-2424, or email BamBamTipline@gmail.com.

CHICAGO - People from across the country are rallying to help a blind Chicago man find his missing emotional support dog.

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The case of Bam Bam isnt just a tale of loss, its now become a movement.

The backstory

Fox 32 has received emails from people as far away as Texas and California, wanting to help Angel Santiago find Bam Bam, his 14-year-old dachshund mix.

On June 5, two people entered his backyard in the 2300 block of North Monticello Avenue in Logan Square while Bam Bam was outside for a brief bathroom break. Santiago said he tried to stop them, but was overpowered.

Since then, hes walked miles each day distributing flyers. Santiago has stood outside Tonys Fresh Market at North Monticello and West Fullerton avenues, asking for help to bring Bam Bam home.

What they're saying

Though legally blind due to glaucoma and Type 2 diabetes, Santiago says he can feel the support from around the world.

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"I never really thought that people like her, and the rest of Chicago would even do this for me, let alone a blind person," Santiago said. "But it makes me feel really happy inside that I do got people that want to help and are backing me up."

The search for Bam Bam has unleashed a wave of support from across the country. Santiago, who is blind, hasnt stopped searching since the day Bam Bam vanished from his backyard in early June. Offers of money came pouring in, but he didnt want another dog, he wants his dog.

Why you should care

More than a million people have seen the story we ran on all social media platforms. Thats when Amy Paslich saw it and got to work.

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She started a GoFundMe, which has surpassed $10,000 in donations, and linked arms with local dog search experts.

"I couldn't make it through my workout. I ended up leaving in the middle of class and walking home," Paslich said. "I felt devastated learning about this story. I called my mom, and I knew that I needed to do something, so I reached out to Angel."

"At least try and take care of him as best as you can. If you want to give them back, please, by all means, you can call where you can set up a drop of Bam Bam, and we'll be there, no questions asked, and we will take him home," she added.

What you can do

Bam Bam has a one-inch dark brown patch on his forehead. A $1,000 reward is being offered for his safe return.

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Additionally, PETA is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the safe return of Bam Bam and the arrest and conviction of those responsible for stealing him.

If you have any more information on the dog's whereabouts, call 1-866-597-2424. Chicago police can also be contacted at 312-746-6000.

Volunteers will gather on Saturday to pass out flyers. To find out more or give an anonymous tip about Bam Bam, email BamBamTipline@gmail.com.

The Source

The information in this article was reported by FOX 32's Tia Ewing.
FIRST ON FOX: One of the prominent activists behind the protests against President Trumps move to federalize Washington, D.C., to combat crime is a Black Lives Matter organizer who has a long history of calling for defunding and abolishing the police and other far-left agenda items.

In recent days and on Monday, shortly after Trump's press conference announcing federal resources being sent to the nation's capital in accordance with the Constitution, protesters took to the streets opposing the crime crackdown, including Nee Nee Taylor, the executive director of Harriet's Wildest Dreams and Free DC's co-founder and operations organizer.

"Free D.C.," Taylor told protesters gathered around her on the streets of Washington, D.C., on Monday. "This is our city."

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"Take it to the streets. This our D.C. No justice, no peace," she continued. "If we don't get no justice, they're not going to get any peace The only violence that's happening in D.C. right now is the violence against our communities that this president is directing."

Top Democrats Ripped On Social Media Over 'Bonkers' Reactions To Trump's Dc Crime Plan: 'Massive Liar'

BLM activist Nee Nee Taylor has been a prominent face of the opposition to President Trump's federalization of DC

Over the years, Taylor has repeatedly called for police to be defunded and abolished on her X account, formerly known as Twitter, with the username "SpiritOfHarrietTubman."

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In 2018, Taylor posted on X, "Lets [sic] clear I want to abolish the police"

"Black Morning! I woke up like this, in my Greatness and also still having to shout to the World that we are FREE! Abolish the enslave Patrols that beat, kill and arrest Black people," Taylor posted on X in 2021. "Call & demand that all Protesters be release. [sic]"

"Ayeee! May all Jails and Prisons be abolish! [sic]" Taylor posted on X in 2021 in response to the anniversary of Chelsea Manning, who was found guilty of espionage before being pardoned by former President Obama, being released from prison.

Taylor has specifically called for the defunding of the police department in Washington, D.C., where she is now opposing Trump's move to send in federal resources.

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Msnbc Contributor Rages At Trump's Federal Takeover Of Dc Police To Fight Crime

President Donald Trump gestures in the State Dining Room of the White House, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Washington.

"Wasnt the conclusion to tow cars and hold club owners responsible for violence? Being reactive and not pro active wont keep people safe," Taylor posted on X in 2022. "Defund @DCPoliceDept and invest in resources that keep people safe. #DefundMPD invest in community."

"Access to food is a fundamental human right, yet due to poverty many people arent afforded this right," Harriet's Wildest Dreams posted on Facebook in 2022. "The state, using police, maintains poverty and therefore hunger. In todays episode of #PoliticalEducationMondays we discuss why "Defunding Police is Food Justice."

Taylor's group went on to slam the police in a series of other social media posts, saying it has "always targeted queer and trans folks" and that "police have existed to violently protect property and its owners."

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Taylor has also been vocal about abolishing ICE, railing against the Los Angeles ICE raids in a June Facebook post. The June 9 post said the raids were "chaos" and were being "provoked by this administration." She went on to say law enforcement "doesn't keep us safe. Not the police, not ICE, not any system built to control us."

Harriet's Wildest Dreams and Taylor have also both celebrated Assata Shakur, also known as JoAnne Chesimard, who was convicted in the 1973 killing of New Jersey state trooper Werner Foerster, who left behind a wife and 3-year-old son.

"Assata Shakur is a freedom fighter and political activist. A prominent figure in the Black Liberation Movement, Assata sought refuge in Cuba in 1984 after escaping political persecution in the U.S," the group wrote last year on Facebook with the "HandsOffAssata" hashtag. "She became the first woman on the FBI's Most Wanted list. Denying criminal accusations, she embodies a symbol of resistance against racism and injustice."

In another Facebook post from last week, the group included a graphic with Shakur's face and a caption that read, "Black August is a time to honor those who chose freedom, no matter the cost. We carry the stories of those who risked everything for liberation."

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Taylor posted several times about Shakur being a "freedom fighter" and downplayed her murder conviction by saying she was stooped for a broken taillight, ignoring her involvement in the shooting. Shakur later escaped prison and fled to Cuba, where former Cuban Prime Minister Fidel Castro granted her asylum. She is currently still wanted by the FBI.

A flyer distributed by the Free DC Project, an organizer along with Harriet's Wildest Dreams, said that the opposition's "guiding principles" are: Do not obey in advance. Prioritize joy. Take up space. Be in solidarity, and organize.

"Silence is compliance, so we need to get loud, starting tonight and every night of this occupation, go outside at 8:00 PM and bang pots and pans, sing, chant, or make noise for five minutes," the flyer, posted on Instagram on Monday, explained.

A Metropolitan Police Department car drives through Washington DC

Harriet's Wildest Dreams refers to itself as a group formed out of Black Lives Matter with the intent "to begin the next chapter of our journey as organizers in the movement for Black lives and liberation in DMV (DC, MD, VA)."

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On the Harriet's Wildest Dreams website, Taylor is described as "our modern-day Harriet Tubman."

Harriet's Wildest Dream was also active in 2024 pushing back against the arrest of anti-Israel protesters on college campuses, including George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

The nation's capital in the following years has been rocked by shootings that have left innocent children shot and dead, a trend of juveniles committing carjackings that have turned deadly in some cases, shoplifting crimes and attacks on government employees, summer interns and others, including the fatal shooting of 21-year-old congressional intern, Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, in June.

Trump responded on Monday by announcing that he is federalizing the D.C. police department to curb spiraling violence, sparking pushback from Democrats who have claimed crime is down in the nation's capital.

Fox News Digital's Emma Colton contributed to this report





Original article source: BLM activist leading resistance to Trump's DC crime plan repeatedly called for abolishing police
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW)  Board of Education President LaTonya Williams has asked the board to consider an outside financial audit.

With changes in the administration for the new fiscal year, including a new superintendent and a new assistant superintendent of business and finance, Williams said new estimates and adjustments in SJSD's new fiscal budget have raised questions since its approval in June.

Since the budget approval, the BOE has had difficulty answering any questions.

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For whatever reason, there were issues that arose we were unaware of, Williams said. So, the call for an audit is not about accusations or blame, just for clarification.

This issue was discussed in the Monday, Aug. 11 Board of Education meeting.

New Assistant Superintendent of Business and Finance, Robert Hedgecorth, used an updated budget tracking system to explain why questions have arisen in the last two months.

The new software takes into consideration more elements, including changes in enrollment and state funding in more detail. Hedgecorth then advised the board they must choose between a full state audit, in addition to the audit already paid for each year by the board, which is set for September through December by an outside firm.

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A state audit would look beyond finances and at procedures, Hedgecorth said. This is more time-consuming and may be more than the board has in mind.

After more discussion, the board decided to pursue the option of an outside party that would concentrate on the finances and best practices for budgeting.

I told the board I would ask the finance director from the Missouri School Board Association, Hedgecorth said. She is a former CFO and has experience in working with boards about finances and planning.

Both Hedgecorth and the BOE agreed that this plan would be ideal for focusing on questions and for establishing practices that would save time and make the best use of resources for the future.

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Hedgecorth said changes early on and mid-year are not uncommon, because some of the largest factors in regard to income are unknown until after summer. These include final student enrollment numbers and the amount of state funds the district will receive.

You are presenting a preliminary budget in June, so there are a lot of things you dont know, Hedgecorth said. So, you are estimating at that time.

Hedgecorth emphasized that the best way to address a concern or issue is to name it.

BOE members have brought questions forward about the process and the numbers associated with the budget, even advocating for a third set of eyes to be brought in.

Hedgecorth stated, he hasn't had confirmation about the availability of an auditor, but would have more answers to present at the next BOE meeting on Monday, Aug. 25.
The remains of a 25-year-old Antarctic researcher have been found 66 years after he disappeared when he fell into a crevasse in 1959 during a survey mission, officials said.

Dennis "Tink" Bell's remains were found among rocks exposed by a receding glacier at Admiralty Bay on King George Island, situated off the Antarctic Peninsula after he fell into a crevasse on July 26, 1959, and his team was unable to recover his body after the accident, the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) said.

Over 200 personal items were also found, including the remains of radio equipment, a flashlight, ski poles, an inscribed Erguel wristwatch, a Swedish Mora knife, ski poles and an ebonite pipe stem, the BAS confirmed.

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Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station - PHOTO: Dennis Bells remains were found in the loose rocks at the front of the Ecology Glacier.

MORE: $30,000 of stolen Labubus recovered in major California bust

The remains were carried to the Falkland Islands on the BAS Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough and handed into the care of His Majestys Coroner for British Antarctic Territory, Malcolm Simmons, who accompanied them on the journey from Stanley to London, supported by the Royal Air Force, officials said.

Samples of his DNA were then tested and compared to samples from his brother, David Bell, and his sister, Valerie Kelly, by Denise Syndercombe Court, a professor and forensic geneticist at Kings College London, who was able to confirm that the remains found were that of Dennis Bell.

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When my sister Valerie and I were notified that our brother Dennis had been found after 66 years we were shocked and amazed, said David Bell, who is now living in Australia. The British Antarctic Survey and British Antarctic Monument Trust have been a tremendous support and together with the sensitivity of the Polish team in bringing him home have helped us come to terms with the tragic loss of our brilliant brother.

MORE: Coast Guard suspends search for missing fisherman after boat with 4 crew members capsizes

D. Bell - PHOTO: Dennis_"Tink" Bell(far right) during base Christmas festivities for personnel from Admiralty Bay Station, c. 1958.

MORE: Royal Caribbean water slide malfunction injures cruise ship guest

Dennis Bell set out from the Antarctic base with three other men and two dogs on July 26, 1959, and attempted to climb a glacier leading to an ice plateau they were trying to get to so that they could carry out survey and geological work.

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As they ascended the glacier, Bell, along with surveyor Ben Stokes, negotiated a crevassed area and believed that they were in the clear, according to the BAS.

The deep soft snow made the going difficult and the dogs showed signs of tiredness. To encourage them Bell went ahead to urge them on, tragically without his skis, officials with the BAS said in their statement recounting what happened. Suddenly he disappeared leaving a gaping hole in the crevasse bridge through which he had fallen.

MORE: 2 hikers rescued by helicopter from remote beach after rising tides cut off exit route

Roger Todd-White - PHOTO: Bell was working at Admiralty Bay Base on King George Island. 1951.

MORE: Denmark zoo asks for people to donate their pets to feed its predators

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Despite the terrible conditions and the ever-present risk of falling into another crevasse they continued to search for the scene of the accident, officials recounted. Ken Gibson [witness] remembers It was probably twelve hours before we found the site and there was no way he could have survived.

The remains were discovered on the Ecology Glacier earlier this year in January by personnel from the Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station on King George Island, though officials made their discovery public on Monday.

MORE: 9-year-old dies at Hersheypark's water park in Pennsylvania

British Antarctic Survey - PHOTO: Dennis Bell (left) with his fellow colleagues and the dogs that helped them to work in Antarctica. Midwinter 1959 at Admiralty Bay Base.

MORE: Man sentenced to time served for trying to open plane door, stab flight attendant in neck

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The family will now decide how to mark Denniss memory.

Dennis was one of the many brave FIDS personnel who contributed to the early science and exploration of Antarctica under extraordinarily harsh conditions, Director of BAS Professor Dame Jane Francis said. Even though he was lost in 1959, his memory lived on among colleagues and in the legacy of polar research. This discovery brings closure to a decades-long mystery and reminds us of the human stories embedded in the history of Antarctic science.
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has lifted the Boil Water Notice for Granada Hills and Porter Ranch after testing confirmed the water meets state safety standards.

Customers who were impacted may now resume normal use of tap water. However, LADWP recommends flushing household and business plumbing for five minutes to clear stagnant water. Affected customers will receive a $20 bill credit for water flushing.

We thank our customers for their cooperation and patience as we worked to complete our repairs and restore safe, high-quality drinking water to the Granada Hills and Porter Ranch communities, LADWP CEO and Chief Engineer Janisse Quinones said in a statement. We are pleased to have worked with our regulators to ensure water quality is restored and we are able to get the all-clear.

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With the notice lifted, bottled and recycled water distribution sites at OMelveny Park, Holleigh Bernson Memorial Park, and the intersection of Tampa Avenue and Sesnon Boulevard will close, effective immediately.

The notice was issued on Aug. 6 following a valve failure during pump station repairs.

The incident occurred when a valve controlling water flow from a 10-million-gallon tank failed to reopen during routine maintenance, disrupting water service to the area.

The advisory impacted residents north of Rinaldi Street or the 118 Freeway, whichever is further, and west of Balboa Boulevard.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
NEW YORK (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Bojangles is bringing its chicken and biscuits back to the Big Apple.

The fast-food chain founded in Charlotte announced its plans Wednesday to open 20 new restaurants in New York.

After a brief chapter in the city during the 1980s, this agreement marks the beginning of a new era for Bojangles in the city that never sleeps, Bojangles officials said.

McDonalds fans notice something missing from new Snack Wrap line

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The agreement, spearheaded by restaurant owner and operator Habib Hashimi and Hashimi Holding Corporation, is expected to bring Bojangles to New York City over the next 10 years. Construction is already underway for the first location in Brooklyns East Flatbush neighborhood.

Bojangles said the countrys most populous city is ideal for introducing the brands Southern flavors to an entirely new audience.

Bojangles has always stood out to me  from its delicious chicken, biscuits and breakfast to its incredible franchisee support system, said Hashimi in a statement. I couldnt be more proud to lead Bojangles growth in New York City. Our team has extensive experience running quick-service concepts across New York and Connecticut, and Im confident residents will fall in love with the Southern flavors, hospitality and convenience Bojangles has to offer.

Nationwide coverage

The expansion to New York is the latest new market preparing for the signature Cajun-style chicken and fixins.

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Last year, the restaurant announced the addition of 30 stores across Los Angeles County and 20 more in the Phoenix metro area.

As part of Bojangles broader expansion across the New York metro area, the company also recently signed an agreement with a franchisee to develop 35 additional locations throughout New Jersey.

The New York locations will be in the same city as Bojangles ownership group, Durational Capital Management.

Its a monumental moment, now that were entering the New York Metropolitan area again, said Jose Armario, CEO of Bojangles. The East Coast is craving the authentic, Southern charm that Bojangles delivers, and were excited to introduce locals to something new. The franchise groups behind this expansion are the exact partners we want to grow with  they bring the industry know-how, operational experience and leadership needed to grow Bojangles in a bustling market like New York.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
The shrinking of a staple loaf of bread in Bolivia highlights the severity of its economic crisis ahead of Sundays presidential election.

For years, Bolivians could get a 100-gram (3.5-ounce) battle bread from government-subsidized bakeries for just 7. But now, while the price remains the same, buyers get a loaf 60% the size. Its like eating a bit of air, a Communion wafer, a shopper in La Paz said.

The Movement Toward Socialism has ruled Bolivia since 2006, for years benefiting from a commodities boom. However, as state revenues have fallen, the model has become ruinously expensive, with the government spending 4.2% of GDP on subsidies, feeding a crisis that has opposition candidates leading the presidential race.
Aug. 13Bonnell Industries has pledged $25,000 to support the Dixon Family YMCA's Lovett Child Development Center, a new facility focused on early childhood education.

The gift, to be paid over five years in annual August installments, reflects the company's commitment to investing in Dixon's future by supporting local families and young learners, company officials said.

Bonnell Industries President Joe Bonnell said the donation reflects the company's long-standing focus on community engagement.

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"We are proud to donate to such a strong member of the community, and when it comes to community and involvement, the YMCA has proven to be a leader," Bonnell said. "This project is very beneficial to the community to have an up-to-date child care facility here in Dixon."

The 15,000-square-foot Lovett Child Development Center, located at 1675 Fulfs Lane, opened earlier this year after almost two years of planning and construction. The facility serves infants and children up to 5 years old, expanding the YMCA's child care capacity from 48 to 226. It features 13 classrooms, two playgrounds, kitchen services, a nurse's station and space for partner agencies.

The expansion was driven by long-standing demand for child care in the region, with the YMCA previously operating at capacity for more than a decade and maintaining a waiting list of hundreds of families. The center is part of a broader effort to meet child-care needs in the tri-county area, where thousands of families are estimated to be underserved.

"We are incredibly grateful to Joe Bonnell and the entire team at Bonnell Industries for their leadership and generosity," Dixon Family YMCA CEO Andrew McFarlane said. "Their support will help us provide high-quality early-learning experiences and create a lasting impact for future generations."
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (ABC22/FOX44)  Six Indian citizens were arrested at the Plattsburgh bus station after illegally entering the US from Canada, U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector officials claim.

An alleged tip from a concerned citizen July 31 led to their collective arrest. Investigators believe that the group entered the U.S. through the woods, in the middle of the night, and were at the Plattsburgh station to get a bus to NYC.

Hearing set for suspect in shooting of CBP agent in Vermont

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All six individuals were taken to an immigration detention facility while they wait for deportation proceedings

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44.
A 14-year-old boy has set up a scheme to ensure other children in his area do not go hungry over the summer holidays.

Buddy, who lives near Devizes in Wiltshire, hands out packed lunches in the town three times a week with the aim of helping families who would usually get free school meals during term time.

The food is partly paid for by local business sponsors, with the remainder coming from funds donated by the public.

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"It makes me feel really happy, in general, to help people," said Buddy.

The lunch bags include crisps, fruit and sandwiches with various fillings. He also provides breakfasts.

Buddy believes he gives out roughly 100 meals a day and intends to continue offering the service, called Lunch Box Buddy, throughout the summer holidays.

"You see a lot of families that do really need this. So it can really make you think about the struggle," he said.

"I wanted to help out so that those families can be resting and then still get their lunch and not be worried about what's for the next meal.

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"It can be expensive in the summer holidays, so this helps massively for them."

Lunch Box Buddy provides lunches, breakfasts and food for the weekend from a pop -up stall in Devizes [BBC]

Buddy's mum Emily said she was "incredibly proud" of the work being done by her son.

"I really feel like he's doing some good," she added.

"He knows he's making an impact to some of those families, because some of the children aren't just having the lunch now, they're [also] getting breakfasts and food for the weekend," said Emily.

"They're families for whom it is making a real difference. It's a real need.

"I can't think of anything better I'd like to do this summer than be here with him."

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The Oklahoma City Zoo has welcomed a male Plains zebra foal to its herd.

According to the Zoo, the newest member of the herd, Atlas, was born on August 9 to mother Calypso and father Mars. He is now the sixth member of the herd.

LOCAL NEWS: Midtown OKC kicks off ten buck lunch beginning August 18

This is the second zebra birth weve had since the herd joined the Zoo in 2024 and were excited for our guests to meet the newest member of our animal family, said OKC Zoos Curator of Hoofstock, Bill Smith. While everyone expects black and white stripes, zebra foals are actually born with soft, fuzzy fur with brown stripes which will darken to black during their first year.

Plains zebra foal, Atlas. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. Plains zebra foal, Atlas. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. Plains zebra foal, Atlas. Image courtesy OKC Zoo. Plains zebra foal, Atlas. Image courtesy OKC Zoo.

Officials say Plains zebras are the smallest and most common of the three species of zebra. The species is native to the savannahs, grasslands, and open woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. Wild populations of Plains zebras have declined and are now considered near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

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We hope that seeing the family dynamics of the Plains zebra herd will make an impact on our guests and inspire them to take conservation action to help preserve this species and other African species and their habitats, said OKC Zoo executive director and CEO Dwight Lawson.

You can learn more about the Zoos Expedition Africa habitat or buy tickets at okczoo.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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Palm Beach County health officials issued a water quality health advisory for Ocean Inlet Park in Boynton Beach that has tested positive for potentially harmful bacteria.

Tests completed Monday, Aug. 11 indicate the water quality at the park, located at 6990 N. Ocean Blvd. does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health.

DOH-Palm Beach advises against any water-related activities at this location because of an increased risk of illness in swimmers. Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines.

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Enterococci bacteria are found in the intestines of virtually every animal, but some strains can cause infections in humans such as urinary tract infections, according to the National Institutes of Health. Enterococci bacteria can also cause intra-abdominal infections and meningitis in rare cases.

Ocean Inlet Park on December 10, 2024, in Ocean Ridge, Florida. County officials have applied for a $7.5 million grant to help raise the marina and parking lot section that often floods during high tides.

This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.

For more information, call 561-671-4014 or visit PalmBeach.FloridaHealth.gov.

James Coleman is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at jcoleman@pbpost.com and follow him on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @JimColeman11. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Boynton Beach's Ocean Inlet Park under health advisory for bacteria
How many times have we heard Whatever you say doc, I know you will do right by me. You always have and I know you will. Or, What do you think, doctor? Do you think I should do this? Or, Thanks, doc, I am so glad you are here. These statements imply trust, the sacred trust between physician and patient and an exceedingly complex topic.

While it has been important to move away from medical paternalism and engage as partners with our patients, we are hearing more hesitancy, challenges (Google says ), and threats to ones personal safety or authority (I will go to your [boss/state medical board]).

How did this come about?

Communication between physicians and patients has been trending in this direction since before the pandemic. Many factors have led to increased skepticism of physician advice, such as some physician behaviors on social media, and of course the pandemic. In addition, primary care, a key feature of high-quality care has been systematically minimized, and visits have been shortened or simply are not available. When, and where, can patients raise concerns, fears, and most importantly, be listened to? How many of you schedule a patient, someone you know routinely takes longer than others, right before lunch, or at the end of the day, so if the appointment ran over, the impact on other patients would be minimized? How sustainable is this, really?

That space of sacred trust and communication has been squeezed, and in spite of this, surveys suggest that patient trust in their individual physicians remains high.

What else has been going on?

On June 9, the entire expert physician and scientist membership of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, was fired, ironically, in the name of rebuilding trust. The seventeen fired members were replaced two days later by eight individuals with little or no clinical experience, some known to hold anti-vaccine positions. On August 5, the liaison members of ACIP were summarily barred from participation, which included representation from organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA), American College of Physicians (ACP), American Academy of Pediatrics, Infectious Disease Society of America, and others. Again, this was in the name of eliminating special interest groups. Apparently, to some in the federal government, physician scientist expertise has become a special interest of concern, rather than one of value.

Why is this important? ACIP sets immunization standards in the U.S. Vaccination endorsement by ACIP safeguards broad access to vaccines through insurance programs. ACIP makes weighty decisions, with significant health implications for individual patients and the U.S. population.

The reaction by physician groups was swift: On June 10, one day after the firing of the ACIP membership, the AMA House of Delegates endorsed an emergency resolution to immediately reinstate all members of the ACIP and asked the Senate to investigate RFK Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, regarding his actions involving ACIP and the CDC. On July 7, multiple specialty societies, including ACP, joined as plaintiffs in a lawsuit American Academy of Pediatrics vs. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., protesting his unilateral decision to remove the COVID-19 vaccine from recommendations for children and in pregnancy, alarming experts. The lead plaintiff, Jane Doe, is a pregnant physician who, by virtue of this decision, is at risk for being unable to receive a vaccine.

Superman has X-ray vision. We also possess a unique lens on life and disease: as physicians, we know, for example, that if a vulnerable person is exposed to measles, they are overwhelmingly likely to contract measles. Often, but not always, we can see what is coming. Similarly, even though we may not be in the lab working on new mRNA vaccines, we know the harmful downstream consequences of cancelling contracts and pulling funding for such work.

So, what do we do?

We remain engaged with our professional societies, such as ACP. ACP follows scientific and rigorous processes for developing evidence-based clinical guidelines and clinical recommendations. It is the only U.S. organization and physician specialty society in the world to be designated as a GRADE Center and AGREE Center; it is also a founding member of the Cochrane U.S. Network.

The Vaccine Integrity Project, established this spring by respected physician scientists and vaccine experts, could become the lead trusted voice for vaccine and vaccination information in the U.S., as an alternative to the tainted ACIP. Stay tuned.

The necessity for new models of health communication has become abundantly clear. The top-down model of communication from researcher to journal to institution to website to the lay public is not working. We must train our rising learners, and each other, to better communicate directly with the public about important health topics.

We advocate to protect that sacred space of patient-physician trust, and to mitigate what we see coming. We uphold our Hippocratic oath.

And finally, the late physician and global humanitarian Paul Farmer, MD, PhD, who left us much too soon, said: Trust is built one patient at a time. Paul helped establish a far-reaching, impactful global organization combatting poverty and disease which continues to inspire today. One patient at a time, combined with compassion and empathy, was his simple roadmap: This can be our roadmap, too.

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Janet A. Jokela, MD, MPH, completed her term as ACP Treasurer at IM 2025. She serves as professor and senior associate dean of engagement at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, IL. She may be reached on BlueSky @drjanetj.bsky.social.

The American College of Physicians is the largest medical specialty organization in the United States, boasting members in over 145 countries worldwide. ACPs membership encompasses 161,000 internal medicine physicians, related subspecialists, and medical students. Internal medicine physicians are specialists who utilize scientific knowledge and clinical expertise for diagnosing, treating, and providing compassionate care to adults, spanning from those in good health to individuals with complex illnesses. Stay connected with ACP on X @ACPIMPhysicians, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram @acpimphysicians.
Aug. 13As many as 9,000 individuals in Haywood County could see their health insurance costs raise dramatically or their health coverage just disappear next year.

Some 5,500 Haywood County residents get their insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. As of January 2026, this group will see insurance premium costs explode, and another 4,200 who receive health care through the expanded Medicaid program could become ineligible, depending on actions taken by the N.C. General Assembly.

The estimated median increase for health insurance through the federal marketplace in 2026 is 18%, more than double last year's 7% median proposed increase, according to KFF, a nonprofit health policy research group.

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That's on top of the Biden-era tax credit allowance that expires in 2025 and is expected to increase premiums an average of 75%.

This calculator provides an estimate of the cost increase for ACA plans once the tax credit expires.

Health navigators worried

Local health care navigators who work directly with consumers to help them find the most suitable marketplace plan predict many will simply drop their insurance coverage in 2026.

"Many won't be able to afford the coverage," said Jessi Stone, a Waynesville-based director for the WNC Health and Economic Opportunities Program with Pisgah Legal Services. "A lot of people will go uninsured, especially if they are younger."

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Being able to find access to comprehensive health insurance regardless of pre-existing conditions has been a game-changer for many in the nation.

Insurance companies interested in offering plans can do so through an online marketplace, and there has been federal funding for "navigators" to help people decipher the options. That funding has markedly decreased, but agencies are pursuing other options to continue the service.

"I think about all the people who have been able to work for themselves or start their own business. The ACA gives workers a lot of freedom to not beholding to a company that has insurance," Stone said.

Jan Plummer, a healthcare navigator with Mountain Projects, said the 2026 insurance prices will be released in phases, with the first ones available by Aug. 25. When people who get insurance through the Affordable Care Act get notices from their insurance provider, they should open them, she advised, "because a lot of things are changing."

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"Plans change annually, so it is important to visit the marketplace or see someone like us," Plummer said. "People will need to evaluate options."

Amid the projected premium hikes, Plummer said there is "one small silver lining," which is that all the bronze and catastrophic plans are now eligible for a health savings account. That means people can purchase high-deductible policies, and then deposit funds into a tax deductible savings account. The account can cover medical costs to help close the gap between costs and when the catastrophic plan kicks in.

As individuals plan for large rate hikes, both Plummer and Stone recommended taking a look at the available plans as soon as possible and scheduling an appointment with a navigator if help is needed.

The open enrollment period starts Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15, though certain exceptions are available to enroll at other times.

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During the last open enrollment period, 5,484 people in Haywood County enrolled in a marketplace plan, Plummer said. Forty-three percent, or 2,341, allowed their plans to automatically roll over to the 2025 plan year, without actively updating their application.

"This is not the year to rely on auto-re-enrollment," she said.

Resources for working through the changes include Mountain Projects, GetCoveredWNC, 828-452-1447. Or contact Stone at jessi@pisgahlegal.org, 828-210-3404 or visit www.pisgahlegal.org.

Insurance plans are available through HealthCare.gov.

Medicaid eligibility

The next group whose health insurance is up in the air are those who became eligible for coverage after the N.C. General Assembly adopted the expanded Medicaid program in 2023.

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As of July 31, Haywood has 4,198 individuals enrolled in Medicaid due to that expansion, said Dillon Huffman, Haywood County public information officer.

Medicaid expansion was endorsed by health care providers across the state, who covered the 10% state match required to draw down the federal funds. That contribution has been limited to 6% under the new law that President Trump dubbed "One Big Beautiful Bill."

The law includes an extra requirement that doubles the workload for state and county workers who now must make sure expanded Medicaid applicants qualify for the program every six months by either working, going to school or performing community service for at least 80 hours a week.

Both new requirements significantly increase state costs for the program by 2027 and threaten the continued existence of the state participation. (See separate story.)

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Stone, with Pisgah Legal, said the organization worked diligently with individuals in the region with incomes that were up to 138% of the federal poverty level and were thus eligible for the expanded Medicaid.

Traditional Medicaid sets maximum incomes for individuals and for families based on the number in a household. Before the program was expanded in North Carolina, many fell into the "gap" area where they were neither eligible for Medicaid or for health insurance through the ACA Marketplace program.

"It was two years of work in a very slow process," Stone said of getting those eligible for the expanded Medicaid program enrolled. "I think of that and of how long it will take to reassess all these people."

Stone fears that if the expanded Medicaid program goes away, there will be a large group of people who won't qualify for either Medicaid or the marketplace program, meaning people will go back to not having preventive care and will end up getting care only in emergencies at the hospital.
One in three adult women across the EU have experienced sexual or physical assault, according to the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. This includes what is known as drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA).

Faced with these alarming statistics, a team of chemists from Portugal and Spain, led by Carlos Lodeiro Espino of Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, has presented a prototype of a paper bracelet equipped with a chemical sensor.

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary festival wristband. In reality, it is a microscopic laboratory of its own, one that can detect the presence of the date rape drug Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, otherwise known as GHB, as well as other intoxicating substances, within a matter of seconds.

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The invention, which could hit European festivals and clubs as early as this year, has the potential to significantly reduce the number of sexual assaults.

Related

How does the wristband work?

The lightweight and biodegradable bracelet conceals two miniature colourimetric sensors, one of which reacts to the presence of GHB.

Simply wet a section of the band with a drop of drink. If it turns green, that indicates the presence of an unwanted substance.

The entire chemical reaction takes a few seconds and the result is visible to the naked eye.

"It's a product designed as a personal shield. It can work for up to five days, repeatedly testing different drinks," explains Professor Carlos Lodeiro Espino, who led the research into the bracelet.

Why is GHB so dangerous?

GHB is colourless, odourless and metabolises quickly in the body. Just a few hours after ingestion, it can be virtually undetectable in standard tests.

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Victims often lose consciousness or memory of events, making subsequent investigation difficult.

In Europe, up to a third of sexual assaults involving chemical agents take place precisely after the administration of GHB or its derivatives.

From the laboratory to the club

The project is a collaboration between researchers from Portugal and the University of Valencia in Spain. The research into the sensors took several months, building on 20 years of experience in optical detection methods.

The first batches of bracelets have already made their way to concerts, festivals and popular clubs in Spain and Portugal.

During the summer, when tourist traffic is at its highest and partying continues until dawn, the risk of drinks being spiked increases significantly.

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If the project gains enough traction, its creators plan to expand distribution to more European countries.

"This armband will not solve the problem of sexual violence, but it can play an important role in its prevention," the researchers emphasise.

Price and availability

The cost of a wristband is expected to be between 3 and 5.

Additionally, packaged versions containing multiple bracelets will bring the cost of daily protection down to less than 1.

However, the creators hope that funding will be provided by event organisers, local authorities and public institutions - as part of "safe festival" programmes.

Other tests are available

The wristbands are just one option, as there are other technological and chemical solutions that work. For instance, disposable test strips that can be dipped into a drink are on sale and indicate the presence of certain drugs.

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Also popular are discreet stickers that change colour when they come into contact with a beverage.

A team of researchers in South Korea has developed a temporary tattoo, the design of which will instantly change colour from yellow to red when in contact with a "rape pill".

Elsewhere, students in the department of materials engineering at North Carolina State University have developed a nail polish that changes colour upon contact with substances that render a person vulnerable to sexual assault.

Not just a test - a deterrent

Although the results obtained from the bracelet are not currently treated as evidence in court, the mere fact of having it can be a deterrent to potential perpetrators.

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In the Valencia region, following the introduction of the wristbands, the number of reports of attempted intoxication at festivals dropped to almost zero.

Researchers are already working on a second generation of the device, which would gain formal recognition from law enforcement agencies across Europe.
BERLIN (AP)  The top diplomats of Britain, France, and Germany threatened to reimpose sanctions on Iran as an end-of-the-month deadline nears for the country to resume negotiations with the West over its nuclear program and cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

The three countries, known as the E3, wrote in a letter to the United Nations dated Friday that they were willing to trigger a process known as the snapback mechanism, which allows one of the Western parties to reimpose U.N. sanctions, if Tehran doesnt comply with its requirements.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot posted the letter Wednesday to X. He co-signed it along with top diplomats from Germany and the United Kingdom.

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E3 have always committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon, the letter said. We have made clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism.

The Iranian government didnt immediately respond to the development, but parliament member Manouchehr Mottaki  who was Iran's top diplomat for five years in the 2000s  warned of a swift reaction to any move to trigger the snapback mechanism.

He said the Iranian parliament has a finger on the trigger for quitting the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, or NPT, the international treaty aimed at halting the spread of nuclear weapons. We only need 24 hours to approve quitting the nuclear deal," if the E3 raises the issue at the U.N. Security Council, Mottaki said.

The letter from the E3 comes following a period of apparent diplomatic deadlock after a 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June, where Israeli and American jets struck some key nuclear-related facilities in the Islamic Republic.

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The countries met with Iranian officials last month in Turkey at Irans consulate building in Istanbul on the possibility of reimposing international sanctions, lifted in 2015 in exchange for Tehran accepting restrictions and monitoring of its nuclear program.

Irans Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said at the time that he hoped that the meeting would see the E3 nations reassess their previous unconstructive attitude.

Since the war, talks with Washington for a new nuclear deal haven't resumed, and Iran has since suspended ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, following the attacks. The IAEAs first visit to Iran since the war didn't entail any visits to nuclear facilities Monday, and cooperation wasn't officially restored.

One of the three countries opting to trigger the snapback mechanism would renew sanctions on Iran, but Tehran renewing cooperation with the Vienna-based IAEA and addressing concerns about its highly-enriched uranium stockpile would delay it, according to a diplomat who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity following Julys meeting in Istanbul.

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Iran has had limited IAEA inspections in the past as a pressure tactic in negotiating with the West and it is unclear how soon talks between Tehran and Washington for a deal over its nuclear program will resume.

German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Josef Hinterseher on Wednesday said that the letter once again underlines that the legal preconditions for snapback have long existed.

Our position and our appeal is, very clearly, that Iran still has the choice of deciding to return to diplomacy  and full cooperation with the IAEA, he told reporters at a regular news conference in Berlin.

U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA had assessed Iran last had an organized nuclear weapons program in 2003, though Tehran had been enriching uranium up to 60%  a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.

The IAEA didn't immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

___

Kareem Chehayeb reported from Beirut. Geir Moulson contributed to this report from Berlin.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Britain, Germany and France told U.N. officials that snapback sanctions are on the table if Iran does not sit down to negotiate over its nuclear weaponry.

The letter delivered to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, signed by the three foreign ministers, indicated the E3 was prepared to enforce severe sanctions if Iran did not agree to limit it's nuclear program and gave Iranian officials until the end of the month.

"We have made it clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism," read a letter in part signed by Britain's David Lammy, Jean-Noel Barrot of France and Germany's Johann Wadephul.

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The sixth round of American-Iranian negotiations were abandoned in June after a joint U.S.-Israeli attack on known parts of Iran's nuclear facilities. The 12-day conflict escalated regional tension amid Israel's war in Gaza and spiked oil prices.

The "snapback" guardrail built into Iran's 2015 nuclear deal, officially titled the "Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," was set to trigger if an instance arose in which Iran committed an act of "significant non-performance."

Signed by Tehran with Britain, France, Germany, Russia, China, the European Union and United States it removed sanctions and curbed Iran's nuclear program. Initially the United States left the JCPOA in 2018 during U.S. President Donald Trump's first term in the White House.

Iran, however, has periodically violated parts of the agreement for years and the snapback mechanism threatened more than once by Europe and the E3 as far back as 2019 nearly four years after the deal was inked.

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In addition to limiting Iranian nuclear activities, it thawed U.S. sanctions against Tehran that hampered its economy for years.

On Wednesday, Germany's Wadephul said Iran "must never acquire a nuclear weapon" and reiterated that the E3 had "every right" to resort to snapback.

"Iran has the opportunity to return to diplomacy and resume full cooperation with the IAEA," he wrote in an X post a little before 11 a.m. local time.

"The ball is now in Iran's court," Germany added.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- New national guidance in Britain said that police should consider releasing the ethnicity and nationality of suspects when they are charged in high-profile or sensitive cases.

The guidance said that there must be a policing reason to release the information, such as to combat disinformation or improve public safety.

The move was in response to protests after two men were charged with the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, outside of Birmingham, England. The two charged were reported to be Afghan asylum seekers.

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Warwickshire Police would not confirm the immigration status, which led Reform U.K. -- a right-wing populist party -- and its leader Nigel Farage to accuse the police of a cover-up. The police strongly denied this.

Ahmad Mulakhil was charged with rape, and Mohammad Kabir has been charged with kidnapping and strangulation.

Responding to protests last week, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper urged police to release the ethnicity, saying police should be more transparent.

The National Police Chiefs' Council and the College of Policing said they support the new initiative, but it has also drawn criticism from some anti-racist activists, who have said that it could risk making violence against women and girls an issue of ethnicity instead of misogyny.

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The Home Office will decide if it is "appropriate in all the circumstances" to confirm immigration status of a suspect, the guidance said.

Policing Minister Diana Johnson told Sky News, "We welcome the guidance. We want to be as transparent and as open as possible with the public," including releasing ethnicity and nationality unless there is "good reason not to."

Police didn't share basic facts about the "Southport killer" last summer, which led to "dangerous fictions," an independent watchdog said. The attack took the lives of three girls, ages 6,7 and 9, at a Taylor Swift-themed party. Ten others were also injured.

Attorney Jonathan Hall said it would have been "far better" for police to share more accurate detail about the arrest of Axel Rudakubana, the man later convicted of the killings. Far-right agitators wrongly claimed that he was a Muslim asylum seeker.

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Deputy chief constable Sam de Reya, NPCC spokesperson, told The Guardian, "We saw during last summer's disorder, as well as in several recent high-profile cases, what the major, real-world consequences can be from what information police release into the public domain.

"We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels. Disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum. It is good police work for us to fill this vacuum with the facts about issues of wider public interest."
A British Airways (BA) flight attendant who was sacked after becoming too anxious to fly has won a discrimination case.

Jennifer Clifford worked for the airline for almost 40 years before the Covid pandemic, an employment tribunal heard.

However, during a period of furlough and sick leave, she developed symptoms of stress and depression, leading to her being declared unfit to fly.

After being temporarily moved to a role on the ground, Ms Clifford was still unable to take to the skies by the end of 2022 and was fired.

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She sued BA, claiming that a manager had minimised the severity of her condition by describing it as just a little bit of anxiety.

Now, she is set to receive compensation after the tribunal found the airline should have given her more credit for her decades of service and considered a different role for her that did not involve flying.

Unfit to fly

The tribunal in Reading, Berkshire, heard that Ms Clifford began working for BA in 1983 as a member of cabin crew.

She had risen to the rank of in-flight manager by the time the pandemic hit in 2020 and was placed on furlough in April.

During her period of leave she was told that she would be made redundant in August 2020.

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This was later revoked and she was offered a role as cabin crew, two grades below her previous rank. She raised a grievance about the move.

Ms Clifford remained on furlough until September 2021 but then started a period of sick leave because of depression and work-related stress  her first period of sick leave during her time at the airline.

In September 2022 she was told that if she did not make herself fit to fly then a termination date for her role would be set.

Nigel Landy, her manager, described Ms Clifford as having just a little bit of anxiety and said if you dont like working here then leave, the tribunal heard.

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A termination date was set for March 2023 because of her inability to fly, but she resigned from her position in December 2022.

Need for phased return

Upholding her claims of disability discrimination, failure to make reasonable adjustments and unfair dismissal, Employment Judge Emma Hawksworth ruled: Ms Clifford needed a phased return in a ground duties placement before returning to her full contractual flying role.

That was because of the need to rebuild her confidence and to give time to adjust to working again, and these requirements arose from her disability.

She added that Mr Landys remark about her anxiety was clumsy and suggested to [Ms Clifford] that he was minimising her condition.

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Judge Hawksworth added: A reasonable employer would have given her a longer and more suitable phased return ... and would, in line with its policy, have considered redeployment to a ground-based role before deciding to dismiss her.

Ms Clifford, whose additional claim of sex discrimination was dismissed, will have her compensation decided at a later date.

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There can be no greater honour, surely, than for a Roman Catholic to be declared a saint. It is a sign that the Church believes your earthly life was one of such holiness that you are undoubtedly in heaven. From Jesuss apostles, like Peter, James and John, to early Christians like Paul, heroines like Joan of Arc and modern-day icons such as Mother Teresa of Calcutta, these are the people the Church describes as raised to the altars  worthy of veneration.

But it isnt such an elite group any more  more than 10,000 people have been canonised as saints. No, the greater and rarer honour is to be called a Doctor of the Church  the men and women recognised as not only holy saints but also truly remarkable for their writings and teaching.

Until last month there were just 37 of them. Now there is another: John Henry Newman. On July 31 the Vatican announced that Pope Leo XIV is to declare Newman  author, theologian, Anglican priest turned Catholic cardinal  the 38th Doctor of the Church: the first Briton born within the past 1,000 years to be given the accolade, and certainly appropriate for a man who once said he prayed best with a pen in his hand.

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The 38 Doctors are a varied lot: they include women such as Catherine of Siena and Teresa of Avila, mystics such as Therese of Lisieux and John of the Cross, philosophers like Thomas Aquinas, and popes, including Gregory the Great and Leo the Great, among their number.

John Henry Newman was a prophet, a leader and a rebel - The Fathers of The Birmingham Oratory/PA

Newman, who was a leader of the Church of Englands Oxford Movement and then scandalised Victorian society in 1845 when he became a Roman Catholic, is not the first Englishman named as a Doctor of the Church; that was the Venerable Bede.

But there are other aspects of Newman which make him a highly unusual choice by Pope Leo. There are no others, for example, who have such a powerful connection with the Industrial Revolution: Newman lived for 40 years in Birmingham. None of the other 37 is known for their libretto for an outstanding composer: Newmans Dream of Gerontius was set to music by Elgar. He is the only one who had a future monarch of the United Kingdom attend his canonisation  Prince Charles was at the ceremony in Rome in 2019.

Three other aspects of Newmans life also make him stand out, for he can be described as a prophet, a critic and even a rebel.

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The rebel in him was evident when he decided to forsake the Church of England for the Roman Catholic Church. Ever since the Reformation, relations between England and Rome had been strained. When Newman decided to cross the Tiber, as conversion is often called, being Catholic had only been tolerated again in Britain for 16 years, following the Catholic Emancipation Act of 1829. But for members of each church, the other was still anathema.

Contribution to theology

How times have changed. When the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, a Vatican department, advised Pope Leo to name Newman as a Doctor of the Church, it was acknowledging the contribution he made to theology: not only as a Roman Catholic but also as a member of the Church of England  and it saw no division between them. It was something that the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales had lobbied for.

Bernard Longley, the Archbishop of Birmingham, whose diocese includes a community of Oratorian fathers established by Newman and the Birmingham Oratory church that he founded, as well as Newmans grave, says: It is remarkable that his writings, first as an Anglican and then as a Roman Catholic, but considered as one entire corpus of written work, have led to him being declared a Doctor of the Church.

The delight that Anglicans feel today in the recognition given by the Vatican to Newman was evident in 2019 in the article that the then Prince Charles wrote for the Vatican newspaper, LOsservatore Romano, on the eve of his visit to the Eternal City for the canonisation ceremony.

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Newman, he said, engaged not merely with the Church, but with the world. While wholeheartedly committed to the Church to which he came through so many intellectual and spiritual trials, he nonetheless initiated open debate between Catholics and other Christians, paving the way for later ecumenical dialogues. His influence was immense.

Pope Francis greets the then Prince Charles at Newmans canonisation - Shutterstock

The future Kings article also referred to other aspects of Newmans life: his work as a writer; his flawed character, marked by pride and defensiveness; his vast body of writings, including 30 volumes of his collected letters; his warmth towards friends; his leadership of the Catholic community in England so soon after emancipation; and, above all, the way that he spoke up for the importance of individual conscience. Newman, the Anglican priest who became a Catholic cardinal, famously said: I shall drink to the Pope but to conscience first.

This might seem surprising, given that Newman had joined a Church akin to a pyramid  with the Pope at its top, the figure of ultimate authority. But Newman was no subservient cleric.

Born in 1801, Newman was first ordained an Anglican priest in 1825, becoming a leader of the Oxford Movement that wanted to restore many of the Roman Catholic rituals practised in England before the Reformation. But it was not enough for him and he became a Roman Catholic at enormous personal cost  including him having to resign his teaching post at Oriel College, Oxford, losing friends, being reviled and getting embroiled in very public rows while defending the Catholic Church  until his death in 1890.

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Becoming a Catholic did not end the controversies that beset Newman. His advocacy of more dialogue in the Catholic Church was criticised by other clerics, notably Henry Manning, Archbishop of Westminster (and also later a cardinal), who complained that Newmans problem was that he was somehow too English, taking with him into the Catholic Church an old Anglican, patristic, literary, Oxford tone. Newman was not averse to criticising the Catholic Church for mistakes, not least its failure at that time to encourage different schools of theology.

Contentious arguments

Roderick Strange, author of several books on Newman, says that Newman felt there was a lack of healthy debate and argument among scholars in the Catholic Church. Just as Newman had been more than ready to take on anti-Catholic criticism of people like Liberal politician William Gladstone and Charles Kingsley, author of The Water-Babies, he was happy to debate with Catholics who took issue with his views.

Among the most contentious of his arguments about the Catholic Church was that there should be a greater role for the laity in the Church  that they should be consulted when it came to doctrine. In one of his most famous works, On Consulting the Faithful in Matters of Doctrine, Newman argued that the laity would help develop doctrine, not as an ultimate authority, but as a source of insight and a way of testing teaching.

His concern about authority also led him to write to his friend Emily Bowles in 1863: The Holy See was but the court of ultimate appeal. Now, if I, as a private priest, put any thing into print, [the Vatican office] Propaganda answers me at once. How can I fight with such a chain on my arm? It is like the Persians driven on to fight under the lash. There was true private judgment in the primitive and medieval schools  there are no schools now, no private judgment (in the religious sense of the phrase) no freedom, that is, of opinion. That is, no exercise of the intellect.

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For many, used to the priest-dominated Church of the 19th century, such a view was shocking. But it went on to help shape the Catholic Church of both the last century and this.

This then, is the man that Pope Leo has announced is to be a Doctor of the Church: a loyal Catholic, yet a critic and a prophet. A cardinal who loved tradition yet understood the Church also needed to change. A man shaped by the Church of England and by his English experience of dialogue and debate. The Doctor ahead of his time with his prescription for the Church.

Catherine Pepinster is a former editor of The Tablet, the Catholic weekly, and is currently writing a book on Catholics in Britain since emancipation

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Vice President JD Vances family summer vacation in the beautiful English countryside was met with an uproar of protesters gathered at a usually quiet Cotswolds village, mocking him with memes and telling him to leave.

The local people of the Cotswolds turned out because they feel very strongly that JD Vance is not welcome here, and they wanted to exercise their freedom of speech, a spokesperson for the Stop Trump Coalition told CNBC.

Attendees hold posters at a "Vance not welcome here" party organized by Stop Trump Coalition. DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images

The Cotswolds is a popular celebrity destination, with a number of well-known names having a house in the area, according to the outlet. Vance is set to meet U.K. politicians during his stay and recently had a fishing trip with British Foreign Minister David Lammy.

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However, despite its reputation for hosting influential figures, residents living near the small village of Dean, where the Vance family is staying, described a weird atmosphere around the VPs visit, with heightened security disturbing their quiet life, The Independent reported.

Related: Protesters Hit JD Vance With A Frosty 'F**k Off' On Ski Trip After Zelenskyy Clash

Locals have reported roadblocks and police door knocks asking for their personal details in recent days, as security was on high alert in their neighborhood.

I know several people refused. We asked them if they were protecting us, or Vance. At least they were honest and said it is for him and that it will all be passed on to the American security people, one local told the Observer.

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Despite the heightened security, about a hundred people gathered at the Dance Against Vance not welcome party in Charlbury, where protesters held up signs that read JD Vance Thinks The Moon Is Just A Rumor and Bullies Not Welcome Here.

Locals described a "weird atmosphere" around Vance's visit to the U.K. Leon Neal via Getty Images

Some demonstrators filled the area with images of the notorious meme that depicts Vance as bald with a bloated baby face.

A meme depicting Vance with a bloated baby face has proven hard for him to shake. Leon Neal via Getty Images

Hes simply not welcome here, Sue Moon, a mother who attended the demonstration, told The Guardian.

One anti-Vance sign read, "JD Vance Thinks The Moon Is 'Just A Rumor.'" Leon Neal via Getty Images

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
After raising more than $800,000 in two weeks, former Hartford mayor Luke Bronin called Wednesday for U.S. Rep. John B. Larson to refuse corporate campaign money as political contributions during the current race.

Larson, who has served in Congress since winning a multi-candidate battle in 1998, has relied on money from corporate political action committees for more than half of his campaign funds in the last five elections over the past 10 years, according to public records. That money includes contributions from committees operated by insurance, finance, real estate, health care, and defense interests, among others.

As an incumbent with a safe seat in a Democratic-dominated district, Larsons campaign has raised about the same amount of money in each of the past five elections  between $1.37 million to $1.7 million during that time. Of the PAC money, about 85% is from business interests and about 12% from labor groups, according to Open Secrets, which tracks political money for Congressional candidates in all 50 states.

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Today, Im pledging not to accept a dollar of corporate PAC money, and Im calling on Congressman Larson to do the same, Bronin said in a statement. The deck is already stacked against working families and the middle class in so many ways, and the scale of corporate PAC money in our national politics makes things worse. Voters deserve leaders who are putting the interests of working families and the middle class first, and Im calling on John Larson to reject and return corporate PAC contributions for the 2026 cycle.

Bronin says he is accepting money only from individuals and has surprised some insiders with the speed of his fundraising since announcing his campaign in late July.

As a graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire, Yale Law School, a Rhodes Scholar and a former U.S. Navy Reserve intelligence officer in Afghanistan, Bronin has a wide range of contacts and showed his fundraising prowess when he won the Democratic primary for mayor in Hartford by unseating incumbent Pedro Segarra. After growing up in the affluent communities of Rye, N.Y. and Greenwich, Bronin has a web of successful and affluent friends and classmates who have contributed to his campaign.

Bronins campaign so far has declined to release the names of any of his recent contributors, saying those will be revealed in October in the public filings that are required by the Federal Election Commission. The campaign says it has more than 600 individual contributors so far.

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Weve already seen a tremendous amount of support, and Im proud that were raising that support from individual donors, not corporate PACs, Bronin said. Democrats here in the first district and all over the country want to see our party make some big changes, and were feeling that hunger for change translate into strong momentum and support.

The maximum contribution is $3,500 for the primary and another $3,500 for the general election. A supporter can contribute $7,000 now, but the remaining $3,500 could not be spent if the candidate does not reach the general election in November 2026, officials said.

Larsons campaign could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday morning.

Bronin is the highest profile challenger in years for Larson, who was vaulted into Congress by winning a four-way Democratic primary in 1998 over his main opponent, Miles S. Rapoport of West Hartford, and two other candidates. A Republican last won the seat in 1956, swept into office by Dwight D. Eisenhowers presidential landslide. The sprawling, 27-town district covers municipalities in parts of Hartford, Litchfield and Middlesex counties that run as far north as the Massachusetts border. The district includes Hartford and nearby suburbs such as East Hartford, Windsor, South Windsor, and West Hartford.

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Bronins supporters believe that he can defeat Larson in a tough race and pass the torch to a new generation of leadership; Bronin is more than 30 years younger than Larson.

At the same time, Larson, his family, and his supporters are gearing up for a highly competitive campaign. Larson has made constant appearances recently, including showing up at events where he had not been among the listed speakers.

After growing up about 90 miles from the capital city, Bronin eventually moved to Hartford and built a multi-faceted political coalition with supporters from around the city to defeat incumbent mayor Pedro Segarra in a Democratic primary in 2015.

Larsons health became an issue in February when he suddenly froze during a televised speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives as he suffered a complex partial seizure that raised concerns. Larson underwent tests and said later that the event was related to a heart valve replacement he had years earlier.

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He suffered a second incident in April during a press conference at the Connecticut Childrens Medical Center in Hartford, where he paused again during an answer before recovering and soon after having his picture taken with other attendees.

The primary campaign could be historic in Greater Hartfords storied congressional district, which launched Thomas Dodd and Abraham Ribicoff to the national political stage in the late 1940s and 1950s and had been held by nine-term Democrat Barbara Kennelly of Hartford from 1982 to 1999. The 1998 primary turned ugly in its closing days as Larson and Rapoport attacked each other via television ads, and Larson eventually won the contest on primary night.

One of eight children, Larson grew up in a federal housing project in a political family. His younger brother, Timothy, later became the mayor of East Hartford. His campaign staff was peppered with large numbers of relatives and old friends back in 1998, and his family has pledged to be behind him in 2026 for potentially his biggest challenge yet.

Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com
Brooke Moore announces shes leaving WDTN after Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, newscasts.

MORAINE, Ohio (WDTN)  As you have probably heard, 2 NEWS Weeknight Anchor Brooke Moore is leaving after 15 years.

During her career at WDTN, Brooke has held positions of intern, associate producer, reporter, morning anchor and weeknight anchor.

Starting off at WDTN

When Brooke was a student at Wright State University looking to complete her internship in 2009, her mother suggested she try to intern at a local news station. She landed an internship at WDTN, and shadowed a reporter.

Brooke Moore as an intern with WDTN.

I followed around one of the investigative reporters here, and I actually loved the environment of being in a newsroom, said Moore. And so, in 2010, I was hired on as an associate producer.

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According to Brooke, the internship really allowed her to see that journalism was the right career to pursue.

Doing the internship here at Channel 2 is what really drew me to journalism and to this career was just the pace of the day, said Moore.

I loved the beginning to end, completing one story in a day, chasing down leads, making those phone calls, meeting different people and doing interviews, and also doing a service to the community.

Working in journalism

As a journalist, Moore said one of the challenges individuals in the profession have to learn is to detach themselves from stories.

Brooke Moore joined Mark Allan on the 2 NEWS newsdesk in July 2017.

One of the biggest challenges is mentally and emotionally, removing yourself from stories that can be really difficult, Moore said.

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Stories of tragedy or stories that could really hit home for different people depending on what your life looks like, it can be tough.

Tips for career-seekers

Moore encourages people looking to decide which profession to choose to not be pressured to rush to something they might not actually like just because their peers might already know.

Think about your strengths, said Moore. Think about where you succeed and excel in school. And as youve grown up and things that youre drawn to and start exploring what kind of career paths or college degrees or trade schools might fit with that particular skill set that you have.

According to Moore, its okay to enter an internship or a job and realize that it isnt the right choice, and its okay to choose something else.

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If you take a job or an internship and you try it out and youre like, this is not for me, its okay to change paths, said Moore. Its okay to end up somewhere completely different. You dont have to feel like its a failure if you dont end up where you started.

Encouragement for all

Moore says people, no matter in what profession, should treat others with kindness and respect.

Brooke Moore working during Nexstar Medias Founders Day of Caring, June 2023.

Treat people well in the building, said Moore. Not just the people who are your bosses or the people who can do things for you, you know, whether its your coworkers or your subordinates or the cleaning crew. At the end of the day, just make sure that you treat everybody with respect wherever you are.

Serving her hometown

As an Oakwood native, Brooke said being a journalist in her hometown has allowed her to have a special connection to the job.

Brooke Moore on Election Night.

When you see people out and about in the community, its not just, you know, we watched you on Channel 2 or We love WDTN, said Moore. Its hey, I remember when you were in fifth grade and I was your school principal, and its really great to see you on the news every single night.'

Note to viewers

Although WDTN staff members receive emails and messages of both encouragement and things of improvement, Moore said she wants viewers to know both on and off-air staff at 2 NEWS work hard around the clock to bring you information that matters to you.

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Everybody is working as hard as they can to put this product on the air, said Moore. So just know that we are real people behind the screen and we are working really hard and we want to do the best job we can for our viewers in the Miami Valley.

Brookes last newscast is Aug. 14 at 6 p.m. After she signs-off, you will occasionally see her on WDTN, as she will likely fill-in when needed in the future.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Il Trovatore Gala Concert (Busan Culture)



Busan Culture, a leading performance planning company, will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a gala concert of Verdis opera Il Trovatore on Tuesday, August 19, at 7:30 pm in the Middle Theater of the Busan Cultural Center.

Composed by Giuseppe Verdi and based on Spanish Romantic writer Antonio Garcia Gutierrezs play El Trovador, the four-act opera tells a tragic tale of love, revenge, and fate, centering on medieval knights and a gypsy woman. Recognized as one of Verdis three great operas, it continues to captivate audiences more than two centuries after its creation with its timeless themes of passion, jealousy, and vengeance.

The production will feature traditional opera costumes and props, bringing to life the intense psychological conflicts, resentment, anger, and love that drive the story.

The cast includes soprano Hong Eun-young, mezzo-soprano Lim Eun-ju, tenor Kim Kyung-cheon, baritones Kim Hong-gyu and Seo Yong-gyo, and pianist Kim Min-kyung.

An opera specialist will provide live commentary, offering insight into the historical background and plot, making this a rare opportunity for Korean audiences to engage deeply with Il Trovatore.

All seats are priced at 50,000 won. Tickets can be purchased through the Busan Cultural Center or Interpark (www.interpark.com).
A 44-year-old Brooklyn man is accused of depositing an altered check worth $1.7 million into a Long Island bank, then withdrawing large amounts of cash before he was apprehended.

Nassau County police said Marc Lindor intercepted a legitimate check in the mail and altered it to reflect his name.

After depositing the U.S. Treasury check at a Capital One Bank in Valley Stream in May, Lindor allegedly made multiple withdrawals costing the financial institution $470,000. He was arrested without incident, the Nassau County Police Department said Wednesday.

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The Long Island bank where Lindor allegedly deposited the check is roughly 12 miles east of his East Flatbush-area home.

Hes charged with grand larceny and criminal possession of a forged instrument. His arraignment was scheduled for Wednesday morning in Nassau District Court. Court records show that Lindor pleaded not guilty and was released under non-monetary conditions.
LONDON (Reuters) -A man who helped his brother plot a suicide bomb attack at the end of an Ariana Grande concert in Britain in 2017 was charged on Wednesday with attempting to murder prison guards in the jail where he was being held.

Hashem Abedi, the elder brother of Salman Abedi who killed 22 people at the Manchester Arena in northern England, was charged with five offences following an incident in April this year at HMP Frankland jail when four prison officers were injured, British police said.

He is accused of three counts of attempted murder, one of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and one count of unauthorised possession of a knife. He is due to appear at London's Westminster Magistrates Court on September 18.

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Hashem Abedi was jailed for at least 55 years in 2020 after being convicted of helping his brother plan the attack which injured more than 200 and whose victims included seven children.

The brothers, born to Libyan parents who emigrated to Britain during the rule of late leader Muammar Gaddafi, had plotted the attack at their home in south Manchester, prosecutors said.

(Reporting by Michael Holden; Editing by Sachin Ravikumar)
NEED TO KNOW

Heather Barnhart, the digital forensics expert who led the team tasked with examining Bryan Kohberger's phone and hard drive, is speaking to PEOPLE about the case

Barnhart says that Kohberger called his mother at 6:17 a.m. on Nov. 13, 2022, less than two hours after murdering four University of Idaho students

Her investigation also discovered that Kohberger called his mother again for 54 minutes at 8:03 a.m., which would have been when he returned to the crime scene that morning

Bryan Kohberger called his mother less than two hours after he murdered four University of Idaho students.

The former criminology student, 30, called his mother Maryann Kohberger at 6:17 a.m. on the morning of Nov. 13, 2022, shortly after he arrived back at the residence he was living at on the Washington State University campus.

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This new information comes from Heather Barnhart, the digital forensics expert who led the team tasked with examining Kohberger's phone and hard drive.

She is now speaking with PEOPLE about the case, which she became part of after the Latah County Prosecuting Attorney's Office brought her on to assist in their investigation.

Kohberger first reached out to his mother at 6:13 a.m. that morning and when she did not answer, he called his father at 6:14 a.m. Barnhart says, citing the exhaustive records assembled by her team.

Kyle Green-Pool/Getty ; AP Photo/Drew Nash Bryan Kohberger appears for a hearing at the Ada County Courthouse on July 2, 2025, in Boise, Idaho ; The Kohberger family leaves the Ada County Courthouse after the Bryan Kohberger sentencing on July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. Bryan Kohberger appears for a hearing at the Ada County Courthouse on July 2, 2025, in Boise, Idaho ; The Kohberger family leaves the Ada County Courthouse after the Bryan Kohberger sentencing on July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho.

He had his parents saved as "Mother" and "Father" in his phone, says Barnhart, and would often call his mother first followed immediately after by his father if he did not get an answer.

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"And he would go back and forth texting: 'Father, why did mother not respond? Why is she not answering the phone?" Barnhart says.

This morning she did eventually answer, and the two spoke for 36 minutes.

AP Photo/Drew Nash Defense attorney Anne Taylor, Maryann and Amanda Kohberger (l to r) leaving the sentencing Defense attorney Anne Taylor, Maryann and Amanda Kohberger (l to r) leaving the sentencing

It wasn't long after Kohberger and his mother got off the phone that he called her a second time.

"Then at 8:03 a.m., another outgoing call to 'Mother' that lasted 54 minutes," says Barnhart.

The timing of that call means that Kohberger would have been speaking with his mother while in his car driving back to the scene of the crime.

Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson said at Kohberger's plea hearing that he spent 10 minutes at the crime scene around 9 a.m., which would be around the time he got off the phone with his mother.

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He also spent nine minutes on the phone with his mother at 9 a.m., says Barnhart, connecting with her just minutes after their previous conversation.

The two spoke for two minutes at 4:05 p.m. and at 5:53 p.m. had their final conversation, which lasted 96 minutes.

By the end of that day, Kohberger and his mother had spoken on the phone for well over three hours.

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.

Not present on Kohberger's phone were any texts with friends or any person outside his family.

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"There was a group chat but it was all benign conversations," Barnhart explains.

Kohberger would mostly speak to his parents, says Barnhart, who adds that Kohberger would start calling his mother as early as 4 a.m. some days.



This information was all gathered from the Samsung Galaxy phone Kohberger owned and had purchased in June, around the same time he moved to Washington from Pennsylvania.

Ada County Sheriff's Office Bryan Kohberger Bryan Kohberger

Barnhart notes that Kohberger had completely powered his phone off between 2:54 a.m. and 4:48 a.m, a move likely meant to protect himself while he committed the murders.

In the end, it was a move that proved to be incredibly revealing, she explains.

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"When he powered it off, it was from a human pressing a button, and the battery was at 100 percent charged," Barnhart says.

That was a "pretty awesome" moment, says Barnhart, who has previously done digital forensics on the Gabby Petito case, the Delphi murders, and the capture of Osama bin Laden.

She went on to say that this discovery meant Kohberger's defense team could not claim his phone happened to die around the time of the murders.

The Head of CX Strategy and Advocacy at Cellebrite, Jared Barnhart, who is also Heather Barnhart's husband, points out that the phone being off seemed to be in conflict with Kohberger's alibi as well.

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"If you're stargazing and taking pictures of the sky, your phone needs to be on," Barnhart says, referencing a comment made by her husband in a court filing.

In the end, that alibi did not matter.

On July 2, Kohberger appeared in court and confessed to killing the four University of Idaho students: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20.

Three weeks later he was back in court, where he was sentenced to serve four lifetimes in prison for those murders.

In the courtroom that day were two of Kohberger's family members  his sister Amanda and his mother.

He ignored them both as he left the courtroom.

Read the original article on People
Updated at 10 a.m. ET on Aug. 13, 2025.

Tropical Storm Erin is still struggling to strengthen, but it has a well-developed circulation. Dry and dusty air surrounds the system, and the ocean below is cool. However, conditions are forecast to be much more conducive to strengthening ahead.

The National Hurricane Center is forecasting Erin to slowly strengthen, reaching hurricane strength late tomorrow or early Friday. Though the exact timing when the atmosphere around the system will moisten up, allowing it to spin up, is only an approximation.

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Importantly, Erin's center is forecast to make its closest approach to the northeastern Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands over the weekend. The consensus of the various computer models and the NHC official forecast predicts the center will be offshore, but effects will be felt on the islands.

Bryan Norcross Shares His Journey Into Meteorology

This graphic shows satellite imagery of Tropical Storm Erin.

Everyone in the northeast Caribbean needs to stay in close touch with the forecasts because a slight deviation to the left of the track would make a significant difference in the wind, rain, and storm surge that impact the islands.

Besides the intrinsic track uncertainty, Erin is forecast to be strengthening as it's passing north of Puerto Rico, and we know that intensity forecasts are rarely perfect. A stronger storm in close proximity to the islands would change the magnitude of the impact.

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Looking into the long range, past when the National Hurricane Center is forecasting and the end of the cone, the consensus is increasing that Erin will turn north before reaching the East Coast of the U.S. The storm looks most likely to pass between the Carolinas and Bermuda, but folks on Bermuda are going to have to watch closely to be sure Erin doesn't make a hard turn to the north.

In any case, Erin is forecast to be a large, strong hurricane as it heads north offshore of the East Coast. As we have seen too many times, hurricanes with large circulations put a tremendous amount of energy in the water. That energy will reach the mid-Atlantic and northeast coast of the U.S. The current timing looks like the peak effects on the coast will come next Wednesday and Thursday.

How To Watch Fox Weather

This graphic shows expected wave heights along the East Coast on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

This is a computer model forecast of wave heights (out in the ocean, not crashing at the coast), but its a good representation of the energy the storm will put into the water. The center of Erin could be farther or closer to the coast next Thursday, of course, in which case less or more energy would impact the beaches and waterways.

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Large, eroding waves and strong currents, including rip currents, are likely. Caution is going to be required.

Coastal New England and Atlantic Canada will have to monitor the forecasts for possible impacts late next week, just in case Erin takes a low-probability-but-plausible track close to their coasts.

The average error in these long-term forecasts is very large, of course, so we can't lock onto the details. And we can't 100% rule out a significant deviation from what we're expecting based on what we currently know. But for now, we can feel more confident that Erin will not make a direct hit on the continental U.S. Still, we'll keep an eye on it to be sure.

This graphic shows a tropical overview of the Atlantic Basin.

Disturbances continue to move off Africa, as we would expect this time of year. Currently, however, none of them looks to be worth tracking in the short term. Though there is a possibility there will be a system of interest moving across the tropical Atlantic next week.

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A weak tropical disturbance in the Western Caribbean will move across Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula today and into the extreme southern Gulf tomorrow. Conditions there will be somewhat conducive for the system to organize, though it's not going to have much time.

The National Hurricane Center has the odds in the low category that a tropical depression will form.

Watch for developments along the Mexican Gulf Coast and in South Texas. There is no indication that anything strong would develop, but the southern Gulf is a breeding ground for tropical systems due to the curvature of the coast in the Bay of Campeche. Most likely the main effect will be a surge of tropical moisture.

The National Hurricane Center was painting a mini lemon east of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. But now the odds of it briefly taking on some tropical characteristics are down to 0%.





Original article source: Bryan Norcross: Confidence increasing that Erin will miss the East Coast, but impacts are still expected
BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (WBOY)  A.F. Wendlings Food Service in Buckhannon was honored with the Centurion Award on Tuesday for more than 100 years of operation.

A.F. Wendlings first opened as a meat company in Charleston in 1913 by Albert Wendling when he was just 13 years old. Over time, the company grew into a one-stop shop for customers. Now, it offers meats, seafood, produce, canned goods and non-food products in nine different states.

The Centurion Award recognizes a business or organization for 100 years of operation. West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner spoke with 12 News about the difficulty of maintaining a century-old business.

(WBOY Image)

Access to Monongahela National Forest campground restored after 2 years

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To have been able to operate for a hundred years, that means theyve made it through World War 1, the Spanish flu epidemic, World War 2, the great depression, Vietnam, Korea, three national recessions, and more recently COVID, when we lost over 6,700 West Virginians. This business has not only been able to survive, but theyve found a way to grow in those very difficult times, Warner said.

A.F. Wendlings President, Chris Wendling, also spoke with 12 News on how the company continues to find success over the years.

I always tell everybody, you know, they want to know what makes you successful and I was like give the customers more than what youre selling. And I think thats our success story, you know. Anybody can sell food but we have to give them the service along with the food to be successful, Wendling said.

A.F. Wendlings Food Service is currently expanding its distribution services to include ice cream.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CHEROKEE COUNTY, Kan.  A new method of providing hikers with bug repellant is coming to Cherokee County.

Stations with bug wipes are the new way the Southeast Kansas Nature Center in Schermerhorn Park is trying to prevent tick and mosquito bites. This method of application allows hikers the ability to apply the repellant directly to their skin without the typical odor and mess of spray on solutions.

The project is a joint effort between the park service and the health department, serving as a way for officials to study ticks as they are found, and to protect hikers from many types of diseases carried and transmitted by the bugs.

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Their milestones, where they need to be, whats the next step. Everything that happens here is on purpose, its targeted, its intentional. We are not just a childcare, we are teaching them, said Kathy Miller, Early Head Start Assistant Director,

We have many people here who in this area have been known to have cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lymes disease, and even Alpha-gal that most people are just now hearing about. So with that said, those tick wipes or insect wipes are to try to help prevent individuals from suffering from tick bites that may cause those diseases, said Peyton Kessler, Administrator of the Cherokee County Health Department.

Kessler says that the center also offers alternative wipes with natural ingredients and they are planning to add more stations like these in the future.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele has tightened his grip on power and made life ever-more difficult for critics -- now a growing number face the prospect of a long and painful exile.

At 44 years old, the self-styled world's "coolest dictator" has been in power for six years, and has just scrapped constitutional term limits, raising the prospect he could rule for many more.

For good measure, he and his allies also passed a "foreign agents" law, similar to those used to crush dissent in Russia, Venezuela and Nicaragua.

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Against this backdrop, about 80 human rights activists, journalists, lawyers and environmentalists have left El Salvador in the last four months, according to an AFP tally, fleeing what they call "escalating repression" and the risk of imprisonment.

AFP spoke to several of those in exile. Here are the stories of four.

Bukele's government did not respond to requests for comment. But the president -- popular with Salvadorans for his "war" on gangs that once ravaged the country -- accuses his critics of "distorting" and "manipulating" the truth.

- The human rights activist -

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Ingrid Escobar's left arm is bandaged. Shortly after fleeing her homeland with her nine- and 11-year-old children, she underwent surgery for a tumor, leaving a wound that has yet to heal.

"I prioritized my health, my freedom, and my children," says the director of Socorro Juridico (Legal Aid), which assists prisoners' families.

Now in Mexico, the 43-year-old recalls how police patrolled near her home "twice a week."

She lived in that shadow until a friend from the prosecutor's office warned her that she was on a list of 11 people about to be arrested.

"I had no choice" but to leave she said. "Because of the intimidation and fear of dying in prison without medical treatment."

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"I grabbed some clothes and left when I could," she said.

The prospect of being jailed in El Salvador is not far-fetched.

Escobar has been a staunch critic of Bukele's state of emergency, which was imposed in 2022 and has led to about 88,000 people being detained.

The government accuses them all of being gang members. But with scant evidence or due process, no one knows for sure.

Escobar insists that among the prisoners are "thousands of innocents."

An estimated 433 have died in prison, although the true figure may never be known.

Her organization continues to operate in El Salvador, but they are at "high risk," Escobar laments.

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"Consolidating the dictatorship involves imprisoning human rights defenders to silence them," she claimed.

"There is no such thing as a 'cool dictatorship.'"

- The Lawyer -

Ruth Lopez was already in pyjamas when police arrived to arrest her on the night of May 18.

The lawyer, who led the anti-corruption unit of the humanitarian NGO Cristosal, was herself was accused of illicit enrichment by a Bukele-aligned prosecutor.

Her high-profile arrest marked a turning point.

A month later, her colleague Rene Valiente, head of investigations, went into exile along with 20 other Cristosal activists.

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"There were attacks on social networks, stigmatization of our work, surveillance by security forces," recounts the 39-year-old lawyer from Cristosal's office in Guatemala.

A constitutional lawyer and an environmental lawyer were also arrested in May and June, and the "foreign agents law" stipulated strict new laws for NGOs, including a 30 percent tax on their income.

Amid all this, the US administration of President Donald Trump has been notably muted in its condemnation.

Valiente and Lopez continue to advise the families of the 252 Venezuelans deported from the United States and who spent four months in the mega-prison Bukele built for gang members.

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"He exercises repression because he has the validation of the United States and has undermined democratic checks and balances" said Valiente.

"We will continue working from here for a country that doesn't have to choose between security, or rights," he said.

- The Environmentalist -

When the Bukele-controlled Congress lifted the ban on metal mining last December, many Salvadorans took to the streets to protest.

An environmental leader with a decade's standing, Amalia Lopez could not be absent.

But after helping file a legal challenge against the new rules the 45-year-old was forced to retreat from the fight and leave her country in April.

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"I felt watched. I thought about protecting myself, letting the pressure subside, and returning, but I am no longer safe there," she told AFP from Costa Rica.

In May, an environmental defender and a community leader protesting with farmers near Bukele's residence were detained.

"With such overwhelming military and political power, we can't do much," said Lopez, who also defends communities' rights to water and land threatened by "powerful economic groups."

All her work and affections "were left there" she said.

"With indefinite re-election, an early return is impossible. Now it's an increasingly distant reality."

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- The Journalist -

Jorge Beltran still has his suitcases packed because he's seeking asylum in another country.

The 55-year-old left El Salvador for Guatemala on June 14 "totally devastated," without his wife and children.

"I am emotionally unwell. But in El Salvador, practicing free and critical journalism is no longer safe," he said from his small rented room.

A journalist for 23 years, Beltran is one of 47 reporters who have gone into exile in recent months, according to the professional association APES.

Working for El Diario de Hoy, he denounced what he called "corrupt Bukele officials and human rights violations."

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It was no easy task, Beltran said, as the government "closed access to public documents."

He decided to leave when people close to power warned him he was being targeted by the police.

"It's a very bitter pill," he said. Now the prospect of Bukele's indefinite re-election "erases the hope of returning in just a few years."

Although he is currently unemployed, Beltran plans to create a website to report from abroad on what is happening in El Salvador.

"I will be far away, but I will not be silent," he insisted.

bur-mis/arb/des
DENVER (KDVR)  The Denver International Airport is one of the biggest in the world, but no matter if youre coming home or heading out, the flight may get a little turbulent, and theres a reason for that.

DIA is known to be one of the most turbulent airports in the country, and according to Dave Cunningham, director of operations at DIA, its because of something known as mountain waves.

Very cold, snowy: Farmers Almanac releases 2025-2026 winter outlook

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Denver sits at a high elevation near the Rocky Mountains on the downward side of the typical flow of winds, according to Cunningham. So, when the air moves up the east of the Rockies, it spills over to the west side, which is where DIA sits, causing a wave across the Eastern Plains.

The mountain waves, paired with thunderstorms, heat and other weather activities, cause flights to be turbulent heading into DIA, as well as across the Front Range, into the Eastern Plains and even out at lower elevations in Kansas and Nebraska.

While a bumpy ride may seem daunting, especially at 40,000 feet in the air, Cunningham said turbulence isnt dangerous, it just causes pilots to change the way they operate.

Pilots handle that every single day. They know how to they they know how to deal with it, said Cunningham.

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Chad Kendall, a Federal Aviation Administration chief instructor, Transportation Security Administration provider agent and associate chair and professor for the Department of Aviation & Aerospace Science at Metropolitan State University of Denver, said there can be different flight plans in and out of Denver.

West Wash Park will not be the same: Pub on Pearl closes after 35 years

And some of these, you may not even notice.

Kendall said pilots do their pre-flight planning before taking off, where they look at weather and other pilot reports to try and avoid turbulence, including changing altitude, rerouting, slowing the airplane down and other airplane settings.

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There are also changes while the flight is underway.

Kendall said flight crews may be seated for longer heading out of Denver and stop services early coming into Denver because of the turbulence. Meanwhile, the seatbelt light may be on longer as Denver is known to have more turbulence.

Theyre just being proactive in the process of trying to avoid areas that they know are more turbulent and preparing passengers and cabin crew members for the fact that there could be unexpected turbulence, said Kendall.

So, if youre heading in or out of Denver, you might notice a few more bumps and a slight schedule change, but thats all normal around DIA.

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MOUNT MORRIS, Ill. (WTVO)  A 54-year-old Mount Morris man, Robert Disch, has been arrested after police say he burglarized a business last week.

According to the Ogle County Sheriffs Office, Disch broke into a business in the 4000 block of W. Illinois Route 64 around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5th and stole numerous tools.

On Monday, August 11th, police conducted a follow-up investigation in the 100 block of S. Wesley Avenue and located multiple stolen items. Other items belonging to the victim were found in the 200 block of S. Wesley Avenue, police said.

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Disch was arrested and charged with Theft and booked into the Ogle County Jail. He was later released under provisions of the Pretrial Fairness Act, with a notice to appear at a future court date.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
COLCHESTER, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  A senior manager at Colchesters Department of Public Works on the afternoon of Friday, August 8 issued a letter to Burlington Telecom and Patriot Broadband Technologies ordering them to stop all work in, on, over, or under roads in the Town of Colchester. The town said as of Thursday, August 14, the utility had stopped work.

The public was scheduled to be briefed on the order at Tuesdays Selectboard meeting.

According to the letter, the stop-work order is due to the town receiving a very high number of complaints. As a result, 67 permits issued to the utility will be suspended.

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Burlington Telecom has repeatedly not heeded our verbal and written warnings to oversee its contractors and subcontractors, and has engaged in increasingly dangerous behavior.

Burlington, Colchester Fire District 2, St. Johnsbury under water conservation notice

Burlington Telecom and Patriot Broadband Technologies did not answer a request by ABC22/FOX44 for comment.

Among the specific incidents cited by the letter is one on Wednesday, August 6, when a cable was being reportedly pulled a half mile down Blakely Road without adequate supervision, and one on Thursday, August 7, when a truck was reportedly stopped on a steep bridge over Interstate 89 without any flaggers.

(Courtesy: Town of Colchester DPW)

In addition to stopping work, the town has ordered the utility to remove all of its unattended equipment in Colchester and pay outstanding balances, among other conditions. Once those conditions are met, the town will hold a hearing to decide future actions.

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The town wrote Thursday, August 14 that an agreement had been reached to allow Burlington Telecom and Patriot Broadboard to do minor work including seeding and straw placement, and are still working to fulfill the requirements of the towns order before the hearing can occur. As a result of the hearing, the utility may be allowed to resume work, or their 67 permits may be revoked entirely.

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GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV)  Entrepreneurs in the Green Bay area often find themselves starting in an office at the Start-Up Hub on NWTCs campus, with continuous waves of aspiring business owners joining a community that many love.

Tuesday, community leaders and members of the Greater Green Bay Chamber gathered to celebrate a new business coming into the building.

Red Cross delivers aid from Green Bay to flooded Milwaukee neighborhoods

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The Start-Up Hub, the Chamber itself, is focused around growth, talent and impact, and the Start-Up Hub is no exception to that, said Shane Kanneberg, director of entrepreneurship and startups at the Greater Green Bay Chamber. We really do help businesses launch their businesses, grow and become staples in our community.

The hub brings together entrepreneurs in a collaborative space, allowing them to network and find their footing in a growing community right here in Green Bay.

I think this is a great first step. You dont want to do this blindly  you want to have a plan, you want to line up a board of advisors, you want to talk to customers and make sure that whatever you are planning to do, there is a demand for it, said State Sen. Jaime Wall. So you want to do it as smartly as you can, and one good way you can do that is to connect with resources like the Start-Up Hub to help you write that business plan and get your feet on the ground.

The new business, Four Leaf Communications, founded and owned by former WFRV news director John Laughrin, has leaned on the resources the Greater Green Bay Chamber provides to get the most out of learning how to become a small business.

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I know how to help businesses tell their stories  thats my background, thats what I know. I dont know a lot of things that go into filing with the state, starting a business and figuring that part out, and what licensing you need for that. So to be able to come to a known place that has resources and other people in a similar spot, Laughrin said.

Laughrin is grateful for the impact the Greater Green Bay Chamber and other area chambers have had on his passion for helping local businesses and nonprofits tell their stories to connect with the people they need to reach.

Signing those partners up so that I can start telling the community about some of the great things happening in our backyards that they might not already know about  there are great things. If your company is a best-kept secret, I want to change that. I want people to know about what youre doing so people can support it, Laughrin said.

Report ranks Wisconsin as the fourth-best state to live in the entire U.S.

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If you are interested in learning more about the Greater Green Bay Chamber and the Start-Up Hub, you can check them out here.

To learn more about Four Leaf Communications and contact John, 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 WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
Group of healthcare workers rally in response to CDC attack

On Tuesday, Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety held a rally on Emory Universitys campus in response to the CDC shooting and the killing of DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose.

GC4GS Co-Founder Sofia Chaudhary led a panel-driven discussion inside the Rollins School of Public Health Auditorium, where she addressed medical misinformation and discussed gun safety.

This was not an attack on a random facility. It was an attack on the nations foremost public health agency, said Chaudhary.

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Former CDC public health advisor Abigail Tighe also spoke during the rally, sharing how her child was on lockdown at the CDC daycare during last weeks shooting.

We are scared to go to work, we are scared to send our children to childcare, and we are scared to work in the field of public health, said Tighe.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Heather Hallet with Georgia Majority for Gun Safety also spoke at the rally, sharing her concerns about gun safety.

Nobody is safe, and unfortunately, our medical community is also not safe, said Hallet.

Others, like gun store owner Rome Smith, are weighing in, offering perspective to Channel 2s Brittany Kleinpeter.

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Its not the tool; its the person wielding the tool thats just the truth, explained Smith.

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The ripple effects of distress and loss are even being felt by businesses in the area.

Sri Thais employees shared that the shooting has left its mark not only on staff but also on their bottom line.

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It stinks for me that were not busy. But you have to put into perspective that these people just went through something way worse, said one worker.

What remains clear is that nothing feels certain for so many, but theyre all fighting to find hope and strength amid uncertainty.

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For those who have been following the telework debate in the California government, Tuesdays report from the state auditor was a catharsis.

The audit  which estimated the state could save up to $225 million in building expenses if California embraced telework  affirmed concerns state employees and their labor representatives have vocalized since Gov. Gavin Newsom issued his first return-to-office order last year.

The Governor has recently called for a more cost-effective and efficient state government. The audit finds that to serve those goals, he should look no further than flexible telework, Professional Engineers in California Government Executive Director Ted Toppin said in a Tuesday statement.

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Saving California taxpayers money while achieving other policy goals, such as cutting emissions and recruiting skilled state workers, is the definition of cost-effective and efficient government, Toppin said.

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For many, including Assemblymember Josh Hoover, the audit didnt offer surprises. Rather, it affirmed what the Folsom Republican and others have been arguing: One-size-fits-all telework policies arent right for California.

Hoover, who spearheaded the inquiry, said the auditors office told him that they gave the Governors Office ample time and opportunities to provide more information and reasoning as to why the return-to-office order was so important. But, Hoover said, the administration did not ultimately provide auditors with data to support their mandate.

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This audit was really important highlighting why the governors position on this is so problematic, he said.

Two articles of evidence

The Governors Office disagreed with the auditors findings, including the estimated budget savings. The report doesnt paint a complete picture of the benefits of working in person, Tara Gallegos, a spokesperson for the Governors Office, said in a statement.

Throughout the process, auditors requested data and information about the benefits of in-office work to support the Governors Office decision making. The administration supplied auditors with two articles.

One of those articles was published in 2017, prior to the pandemics reshaping of remote work policies.

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One of the authors of the other report, Stanford Economics Professor Nicholas Bloom, said in an interview Tuesday that four days in the office arent necessary to achieve the benefits of in-person work that his report found.

Bloom said theres no evidence that a specific number of days in office yields better collaboration or mentorship opportunities. And he noted that many Fortune 500 companies have settled on three days a week to keep employees happy.

The Governors Office has not stated why employees need to return to offices four days a week instead of three or two days, but some have speculated that Newsom is using this issue to give the administration more leverage when negotiating with bargaining units.

We definitely saw it used as a bargaining chip in this last set of negotiations, Hoover said. Whether or not that was his plan all along, I really cant say, but the fact that he kept this sort of looming threat on the table for 2026 I do think is very concerning.

Savings estimates face barriers

The report affirmed Steven Boyds hunch that the governor lacked justification for the return-to-office order, and the significant costs associated with maintaining office buildings for state workers.

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I thought they were going to have something, and they had nothing, Boyd, a trainer for professional development with the Employment Development Department, said in an interview Tuesday.

Boyd said he was frustrated over how much money the state spent on office space, much of which goes unfilled, while he and his fellow state workers have to navigate bureaucratic hurdles and red tape when making small purchases.

Roughly a third of the $765 million that the state spends annually on leased and owned properties could be used for renovating buildings and moving departments, the audit estimated.

Gallegos pointed out that the $225 million savings estimate cited in the audit relies on a set of assumptions that are unlikely to occur.

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The auditors outlined barriers to offloading the unnecessary office space including the difficulty in identifying a new tenant, moving costs and lease terms.

The Governors Office said it would take the auditors recommendations into account when managing the states workforce moving forward. However, both Hoover and Boyd expressed concern the findings wouldnt be enough to sway Newsom.

For unions representing state workers, the conversation over hybrid work isnt over.

Toppin, with the state engineers union, concluded: PECG looks forward to continuing to work with the Administration and all state government stakeholders to establish a long-term flexible telework policy that delivers cost-effective and efficient government while serving the needs of taxpayers, state departments, and state employees.
Cabarrus County mother sues school board, former teacher over alleged assault on autistic son

A mother has filed a lawsuit against the Cabarrus County School District and a former teacher, alleging that her son, who is 18 and has special needs, was assaulted in class at J.M. Robinson High School.

Queen Miller, the mother of Christopher Mason, claims that the teacher grabbed her son by the neck, leaving him with scrapes and bruises.

The alleged incidents began at the start of the 2024 school year, according to Miller.

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PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Student with special needs says former teacher assaulted him

I advocate for my child 24-7 all day long, but again it went on deaf ears, said Queen Miller, expressing her frustration with the situation.

Millers lawsuit follows a police report that stated the teacher grabbed Christopher by the neck to prevent him from leaving the classroom. However, Concord police, after reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses, found no criminal wrongdoing.

Keshia LaBoo, another parent, has a daughter in the same class as Christopher. She is considering legal action as well, believing her daughter may have been injured, although she is unsure of who is responsible.

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I get a call from the principal, and she asks, Did Page tell you what happened? Immediately, I know you have no idea who my child is because she would not have asked me if she told me because she is nonverbal, LaBoo said.

Both parents are calling for improved conditions for students with special needs within the district. This has to stop happening, absolutely. We trust our children to be cared for in the school system, and things have to change, Miller stated.

The Cabarrus County School District has declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing ongoing legal proceedings.

VIDEO: Student with special needs says former teacher assaulted him
CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Caddo Parish School Students are officially back in the classroom with much to expect for the year. Superintendent Keith Burton emphasized the importance of parent engagement this school year.

Bossier Parish schools prioritize teacher support, academic aims

Parents can expect a stronger focus on attendance, with an emphasis on working together to keep students in class and engaged. Communication with families is also getting a boost through the JCampus app, which provides quick access to grades, schedules, and important updates.

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Two schools, J.S. Clark Academy and Broadmoor STEM Academy, are beginning a gradual transition into K8 campuses over the next three years, drawing students from across the parish.

Superintendent Keith Burton says everyone is prepared for a smooth start.

Natchitoches Parish schools prioritize student success this year

We are prepared. Ive had the opportunity to talk to bus drivers, to teachers, to principals, all of them have really wrapped around and prepared for this school year. Were ready for your child to come to school. Just know theyre going to be safe, were going to prepare them to be successful, and we cant wait to partner with you as a true education partner as we make the best for this child, said Burton.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
Going shopping in Primark is rarely a good idea, but last week I decided to pop in for some socks and a few other bits of cheap clothing.

Never again.

After picking up a heatwave-friendly work dress, a skirt and a few other bits, as well as the socks, I was ushered through to the self-service tills, which I was told were for card payments only.

It was a hectic, loud and hot environment, and I quickly scanned my items one by one. They totted up to a grand total of 38, and I tapped my phone to pay, taking my receipt from the machine.

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The only bag on offer was a reusable Primark-branded tote for 80p, so I opted for the no bag option and, in a rush to leave, shoved my entire haul, un-bagged, in the storage shelf under my childs buggy.

Standing up afterwards, I clapped eyes on a large glass barrier blocking the exit, effectively caging all customers in until they had swiped their receipt. Id heard of such devices being installed to combat Britains shoplifting epidemic, but this was the first time I had seen one in a physical shop.

In a fluster, and with several other bags about my person, I knew I had scrunched it up and put it somewhere, but I could not think where.

I told a member of staff that I could not find my receipt, to which they replied that I needed to show it to leave, in case I wanted to return anything.

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I replied that I didnt want to return anything, and I just needed to leave, but again I was told that I had to show my receipt first.

Infuriated at being treated like a shoplifter, I spent several minutes in the middle of this busy caged-in area emptying out all my bags on the floor, before unloading numerous items from under my buggy. Eventually, I found the crumpled receipt for 38 underneath my purchases, and scanned it to open the barriers.

It was such an unpleasant experience that as long as these self-service barriers remain in place, I will actively avoid going to Primark in future, as well as certain branches of other retailers including Sainsburys and Morrisons, which have also adopted the technology.

Of course, I understand these shops are grappling with a dreadful wave of shoplifting which they must take action to prevent, as it is badly hurting their profits. But it doesnt take much common sense to see that these self-service checkout barriers are not the answer to their problems.

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Aside from irritating the hell out of honest paying customers, these barriers are not particularly smart. They do not automatically know what items have been purchased. They require a receipt scan to open, but the system doesnt track individual items, meaning criminals can still get away with the classic trick of paying for some items but not others at self-checkouts.

The barriers also do nothing to stop shoplifters who slide items into coats, jackets and under prams, before walking out without paying for anything at all.

It strikes me as twisted that while retailers seem to think embarrassing innocent shoppers whove misplaced receipts is acceptable, law enforcers seem to be pussyfooting around actual criminals instead of catching and punishing them appropriately.

Earlier this week, a shopkeeper was left stunned after police asked him to change a sign in his window in which he called shoplifters scumbags because it may be offensive.

Police ordered a shopkeeper to take down his offensive homemade notice - Wales News Service

The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) said putting up images of thieves in a local area, such as in shop windows, may not be appropriate behaviour, and even Sir Keir Starmer agreed that he would not call shoplifters scumbags.

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It is a disgrace that in some parts of the country, shoplifting has reached record levels, while assaults on store workers have risen by nearly one-third.

But in a country where shoplifting has virtually become a misdemeanour and no longer a serious crime, with penalties for driving in a bus lane now greater than for shop theft, we can hardly be surprised at this state of affairs.

Its clear that what retailers really need is more support from the police, but one thing they could do to deter criminals from stealing things (that might actually work), is to ditch the impersonal self-service tills altogether, and rehire all the staff they sacked to man traditional tills.

Primark can install all the barriers it wants, but they will never disarm opportunist thieves as effectively as a friendly smile would.

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A man and a woman were arrested in San Bernardino County Monday evening after they allegedly ran down a man with their pickup truck and then sprayed him with tear gas while he was pinned under a wheel of the vehicle.

It happened around 11:25 p.m. on the 20000 block of Tussing Ranch Road in Apple Valley, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department.

Sheriffs officials say 36-year-old David Schaar and 38-year-old Jacqueline Chapman ran down the victim as he was walking near their home.

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The suspects chased the victim in a pickup truck, the Sheriffs Department said in a news release. The victim was struck and run over several times by the vehicle and became pinned beneath a tire.

After he became wedged between the ground and the tire, Schaar and Chapman exited the truck and allegedly began spraying tear gas in the injured mans face.

Deputies arrived on scene to find the victim suffering from serious injuries; he was transported to a local hospital by ambulance.

Chapman and Schaar were arrested on the scene and taken to the High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto where they await charges for assault with a deadly weapon and unlawful use of tear gas.

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Officials did not disclose the current condition of the victim, nor have they shed any light on a potential motive for the crime.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriffs Departments Victor Valley station at 7690-552-6800. Anonymous tips can be provided online or by calling 1-800-782-7463.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.


California Gov. Gavin Newsom is demanding that President Donald Trump abandon a GOP-led redistricting push in Texas following a Democratic walkout that blocked the vote in the Lone Star State over a Republican effort to redraw congressional maps.

The Democratic governor warned the partisan battle risks spiraling into a national redistricting "arms race" and urged Trump to "stand down."

After days of aggressive back and forth between the two leaders, Newsom tweeted from the official page of the Governor Newsom Press Office, mocking Trump in what was ostensibly meant to mimic the presidents idiosyncratic style of using all-caps and superlatives for many of his posts.

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Democratic Strategist Says Party Lacks 'Moral Authority' On Texas Redistricting Fight

California Gov. Gavin Newsom calls for a new way for California to redraw its voting districts during a news conference In Sacramento, Calif., Friday July 25, 2025

"DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!). BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GN," the tweet read.

Newsoms hyperbolic, Trump-mimicking tone suggested that California will be retaliating in the ongoing redistricting battle unless red states like Texas abort their partisan map plans.

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The governor seemed to double down on comments on X from Monday in which he posted a video along with the caption:

"Donald Trump: Its time to call Greg Abbott and tell him to stand down. You are not entitled to 5 congressional seats. If you do not call your lapdogs off, CA will act quickly and swiftly. We will go to the ballot. We will neutralize whatever gains you make. We will not stand by while you light Democracy on fire."

J.B. Pritzker, governor of Illinois, left, and State Representative Gene Wu, a Democrat from Texas, during a news conference at the Democratic Party of DuPage County office in Carol Stream, Illinois, US, on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025.

California Launches Redistricting Fight To Nullify Texas Gop Plan, With Dems Poised To Gain 5 Seats

The post coincided with a letter to Trump from Monday accusing the president of "playing with fire."

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The governor said he is prepared to do whatever it takes to combat any gains that the republicans may achieve through efforts in Texas.

"You are playing with fire, risking the destabilization of our democracy, while knowing that California can neutralize any gains you hope to make," Newsom told Trump in the letter.

"This attempt to rig congressional maps to hold onto power before a single vote is cast in the 2026 election is an affront to American democracy," Newsom said.

Democrats have signaled retaliation in response to Republican redistricting efforts across the country, particularly in Texas.

Newsom said he was in favor of leaving the decision to independent commissions, and that he would "happily" stand down if other states followed suit in the redistricting effort.

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In another snarky, all-caps tweet meant to mimic Trumps social media style, Newsoms office summarized the letter: "DONALD TRUMP, IF YOU DO NOT STAND DOWN, WE WILL BE FORCED TO LEAD AN EFFORT TO REDRAW THE MAPS IN CA TO OFFSET THE RIGGING OF MAPS IN RED STATES. BUT IF THE OTHER STATES CALL OFF THEIR REDISTRICTING EFFORTS, WE WILL DO THE SAME. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!"

Newsoms threat could mark a dramatic reversal of Californias voter-approved independent redistricting process and potentially require legislative action or even a statewide ballot measure.

While this is only intended as a political counterpunch, the move has sparked debate among Democrats and Republicans about whether the party risks sacrificing its moral high ground on fair maps.





Original article source: California governor demands Trump abandon Texas redistricting push, threatens ballot measure response
Through a concerted effort to counteract heightened instances of retail crime in the state, California law enforcement groups have recovered 150,000 articles of stolen merchandise valued at $8 million from retailers like Lululemon and Victorias Secret over the course of the past seven months.

Golden State Governor Gavin Newsoms office released the latest retail crime numbers this week, stating that the California Highway Patrol-led (CHP) Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) conducted 415 investigations leading to 706 arrests between January and July.

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We are serious about stomping out crime rings that target Californias businesses and undermine public safety. We appreciate the work of our law enforcement partners statewide to apprehend these bad actors, he said.

Since its inception in 2019, the ORCTFwhich works with state, local and federal law enforcement partners to tackle organized retail theft, shoplifting and other property crimeshas recovered over 1.4 million stolen artifacts valued at almost $60 million. Whats more, law enforcement groups throughout the nations largest state have arrested 4,500 suspects for retail crimes throughout nearly 4,000 investigations over the past six years.

Organized retail crime doesnt just impact businesses, it threatens the safety and stability of our communities, said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. The California Highway Patrol is committed to holding offenders accountable and working with our law enforcement partners across the state to stop these crimes at their source.

Newsoms office pointed to a notable investigation that took place in Northern California in July as an example of one of the states successful efforts to neutralize a prolific retail crime ring.

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A crew operating for an undisclosed amount of time in Northern California was targeted for hitting multiple household name retail stores, from Lululemon to American Eagle, Abercombie, Hollister, Alo Yoga and Victorias Secret, among others. A coordinated sting by the Sacramento Police Department and Roseville Police Department led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of 1,200 pilfered products worth more than $92,000, along with an unserialized assault rifle.

According to the governors office, the ongoing investigation uncovered evidence of a potentially larger conspiracy and will be prosecuted by the Placer District Attorneys Office.

Newsom is no doubt eager to tout the states victories when it comes to driving down crimes that impact public safetya particular area of concern for the states residents. According to the California Department of Justice (DOJ), the states investments in law enforcement helped drive down crime across nearly every major category last year including violent crime, property crime, homicides, aggravated assaults, motor vehicle theft, burglary and robbery.

Since the ORCTF was founded in 2019, California has funneled a whopping $1.7 billion into state and local law enforcement agencies to help hire more officers and equip departments with better crime-fighting tools and infrastructure. Last fall saw two significant developments when it comes to legislationthe signing of an 11-bill package by the governor filled with new provisions to tackle property-related crimes, and the passage of Prop. 36 by California voters.

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However, recently released data from the Public Policy Institute of California paints a less-than-rosy picture of the states progress when it comes to retail crime.

According to Magnus Lofstrom, the groups policy director and senior fellow, violent and property crimes like homicide, car break-ins and car theft did indeed decline in 2024. Most crime categories are now at or below pre-pandemic levels and Californias property crime rate is at its lowest level in three decades, he wrote.

Alarmingly, though, shoplifting has continued to rise and is now 48 percent higher than it was before the pandemic.

Lofstrom pointed to the California DOJs 2024 crime statistics and urged caution when assessing the data alongside that from 2023, because an unusually large number of law enforcement agencies neglected to report data for all the months of the year. Some, like the Oakland Police Department, included substantial errors in their reporting.

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While commercial burglaries decreased in 2023 and 2024 (and were slightly below pre-Covid levels in the second half of last year), there was a notable increase in shoplifting that proliferated throughout the year. With a 13.8-percent increase in 2024, shoplifting is up by 47.5 percent compared to 2019, Loftstrom wrote, adding that combined reports of shoplifting and commercial burglary incidents show that retail theft grew 3 percent last year, and is now 22.8 percent higher than in 2019.

While those increases are nothing to scoff at, Lofstrom maintains that whats needed most is more accurate and exhaustive reporting about instances of retail crime throughout the state.

As with any crime, not all incidents are reported to law enforcement agencies and captured by official statistics, and underreporting may change over time, the PPIC director wrote. Given the high level of media attention to retail theft in the last few years and efforts to combat the problem, it is possible that recent increases in reported shoplifting incidents partly reflect more complete reporting.
California lawmakers aim to release draft congressional maps on Friday that would give Democrats an advantage in the 2026 midterm elections.

A spokesperson for California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas confirmed the news to KTLA 5 News.

The move comes as Texas Republicans advance their own redistricting plans favoring the GOP.

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS. THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!), Gov. Gavin Newsom posted on X. The post was written in a style that mimics President Donald Trumps posts.

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Newsom and other Democratic leaders said the maps will be put before voters in a special election on Nov. 4.

Under state law, congressional and legislative boundaries are drawn by the California Citizens Redistricting Commission, an independent body that uses U.S. Census data.

Lawmakers proposal would temporarily shift that authority to the Legislature if approved by voters  applying to the 2026, 2028 and 2030 elections only if Texas or another state redistricts during the decade.

After 2030, authority would return to the independent commission.

However, not everyone is on board with this plan.

Opponents, including the League of Women Voters, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Republican state lawmakers, have criticized this plan for being an example of gerrymandering.

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Philanthropist Charles Munger Jr. and the Protect Voters First campaign have already launched a website to counter the effort.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
The Brief

John Gsell was boating off Morro Bay last Friday when his vessel struck a large object.

Gsell was thrown overboard into 55-degree water.

He swam to a buoy and clung on it for seven hours until a local fisherman rescued him.

MORRO BAY, Calif. - A California man clung to a buoy for seven hours after being thrown from his boat along the central coast, authorities said.

Victim went overboard after boat struck object

What we know

John Gsell, 29, was boating off Morro Bay last Friday when, around 10 p.m., his vessel struck a large object, according to the Morro Bay Police Department. The impact threw him overboard into 55-degree water.

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Gsell tried to swim back to his boat, but it circled farther away and became unreachable, police said. He later told authorities he saw Morro Rock in the distance and began swimming toward shore before spotting a buoy. It took him nearly an hour to reach it, and he clung to it for seven hours among a group of seals.

Local fisherman spotted victim cling to buoy

Dig deeper

Around 4:45 a.m., the U.S. Coast Guard found Gsells unoccupied boat still running in circles. Two hours later, a local fisherman spotted Gsell holding onto the buoy and rescued him. Police said the fisherman likely saved his life.

Gsell, a former U.S. Marine, told authorities he thought about giving up but refused.

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"We are grateful for his mental mindset in this life-changing incident to not give up and save his own life. Welcome home John!" the department said.

Gsell was reunited with his family.

The Source

Morro Bay Police Department
If the Trump administration succeeds in barring undocumented immigrants from federally funded "public benefit" programs, vulnerable children and families across California would suffer greatly, losing access to emergency shelters, vital healthcare, early education and life-saving nutritional support, according to state and local officials who filed their opposition to the changes in federal court.

The new restrictions would harm undocumented immigrants but also U.S. citizens  including the U.S.-born children of immigrants and people suffering from mental illness and homelessness who lack documentation  and put intense stress on the state's emergency healthcare system, the officials said.

Head Start, which provides tens of thousands of children in the state with early education, healthcare and nutritional support, may have to shutter some of its programs if the new rules barring immigrants withstand a lawsuit filed by California and other liberal-led states, officials said.

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In a declaration filed as part of that litigation, Maria Guadalupe Jaime-Milehan, deputy director of the child care and developmental division of the California Department of Social Services, wrote that the restrictions would have an immediate "chilling effect" on immigrant and mixed-status families seeking support, but also cause broader "ripple effects"  especially in rural California communities that rely on such programs as "a critical safety net" for vulnerable residents, but also as major employers.

"Children would lose educational, nutritional, and healthcare services. Parents or guardians may be forced to cut spending on other critical needs to fill the gaps, and some may even be forced out of work so they can care for their children," Jaime-Milehan said.

Rural communities would see programs shutter, and family providers lose their jobs, she wrote.

Read more: California sues Trump for blocking undocumented immigrants from 'public benefit' programs

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Tony Thurmond, California's superintendent of public instruction, warned in a declaration that the "chilling effect" from such rules could potentially drive away talented educators who disagree with such policies and decide to "seek other employment that does not discriminate against children and families."

Thurmond and Jaime-Milehan were among dozens of officials in 20 states and the District of Columbia who submitted declarations in support of those states' lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's new rules. Six other officials from California also submitted declarations.

The lawsuit followed announcements last month from various federal agencies  including Health and Human Services, Labor, Education and Agriculture  that funding recipients would be required to begin screening out undocumented immigrants.

The announcements followed an executive order issued by President Trump in which he said his administration would "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."

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Trump's order cited the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, commonly known as welfare reform, as barring noncitizens from participating in federally funded benefits programs, and criticized past administrations for providing exemptions to that law for certain "life or safety" programs  including those now being targeted for new restrictions.

The order mandated that federal agencies restrict access to benefits programs for undocumented immigrants, in part to "prevent taxpayer resources from acting as a magnet and fueling illegal immigration to the United States."

California and the other states sued July 21, alleging the new restrictions target working mothers and their children in violation of federal law.

"Were not talking about waste, fraud, and abuse, were talking about programs that deliver essential childcare, healthcare, nutrition, and education assistance, programs that have for decades been open to all," California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta said.

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In addition to programs like Head Start, Bonta said the new restrictions threatened access to short-term shelters for homeless people, survivors of domestic violence and at-risk youth; emergency shelters for people during extreme weather; soup kitchens, community food banks and food support services for the elderly; and healthcare for people with mental illness and substance abuse issues.

The declarations are part of a motion asking the federal judge overseeing the case to issue a preliminary injunction barring the changes from taking effect while the litigation plays out.

Beth Neary, assistant director of HIV health services at the San Francisco Department of Public Health, wrote in her declaration that the new restrictions would impede healthcare services for an array of San Francisco residents experiencing homelessness  including undocumented immigrants and U.S. citizens.

"Individuals experiencing homelessness periodically lack identity and other documents that would be needed to verify their citizenship or immigration status due to frequent moves and greater risk of theft of their belongings," she wrote.

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Colleen Chawla, chief of San Mateo County Health, wrote that her organization  the county's "safety-net" care provider  has worked for years to build up trust in immigrant communities.

"But if our clients worry that they will not be able to qualify for the care they need, or that they or members of their family face a risk of detention or deportation if they seek care, they will stop coming," Chawla wrote. "This will exacerbate their health conditions."

Greta S. Hansen, chief operating officer of Santa Clara County, wrote that more than 40% of her county's residents are foreign-born and more than 60% of the county's children have at least one foreign-born parent  among the highest rates anywhere in the country.

The administration's changes would threaten all of them, but also everyone else in the county, she wrote.

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"The cumulative effect of patients not receiving preventive care and necessary medications would likely be a strain on Santa Claras emergency services, which would result in increased costs to Santa Clara and could also lead to decreased capacity for emergency care across the community," Hansen wrote.

The Trump administration has defended the new rules, including in court.

In response to the states' motion for preliminary injunction, attorneys for the administration argued that the rule changes are squarely in line with the 1996 welfare reform law and the rights of federal agencies to enforce it.

They wrote that the notices announcing the new rules that were sent out by federal agencies "merely recognize that the breadth of benefits available to unqualified aliens is narrower than the agencies previously interpreted," and "restore compliance with federal law and ensure that taxpayer-funded programs intended for the American people are not diverted to subsidize unqualified aliens."

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The judge presiding over the case has yet to rule on the preliminary injunction.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Lawyers for the state of California and the federal government faced off in court Tuesday over President Trump's deployment of thousands of National Guard troops to Los Angeles.

The attorney for the state, Meghan Strong, argued that having what she called a "standing army" in Los Angeles is "unprecedented" and goes against a "deep-rooted policy against military involvement in civilian life." She said that Mr. Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth "think that they can disregard that policy on a whim."

Californians "have been forced to endure anxiety and fear caused by the pervasive presence of this standing army," said Strong.

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Mr. Trump sent in around 700 Marines and 4,000 California National Guard troops to protect federal property and law enforcement agents during a series of protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in early June. The deployment prompted a lawsuit from Gov. Gavin Newsom, who did not approve of the use of his state's Guard forces and called the move an illegal "power grab."

At issue in the three-day bench trial pitting Newsom against the Trump administration is whether the troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits military personnel from carrying out domestic law enforcement.

Strong alleged that the federal government acted in violation of that 1878 law, saying troops were used to provide armed security for federal agents, set roadblocks and perimeters that restricted civilian movement, and detained civilians.

California asked U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer for an injunction that would let the military protect federal property  like courthouses and ICE facilities  but block it from continuing the support for immigration enforcement operations, which the state's lawyer called an "unlawful military crusade."

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Meanwhile, Eric Hamilton, a lawyer for the Justice Department, argued that the military deployment is legal, with the purpose of protecting federal property and personnel. He said that no violation of the Posse Comitatus Act exists.

The federal government's only witness  Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who was at one point commanding general of the Guard task force in Los Angeles  said he was instructed "that we were not conducting law enforcement operations and that we were there to serve the United States."

"We took our duty very seriously, and care and professionalism was always exhibited," he said.

Mr. Trump justified the deployment using a law called Title 10, which allows the president to call up Guard forces during a "rebellion," or if he is unable "with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States." In an early June memo, Mr. Trump said the protests in Los Angeles "constitute a form of rebellion" and endangered federal agents.

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Breyer had previously ruled that Mr. Trump used Title 10 unlawfully, but he was overruled by an appellate court that said Mr. Trump had discretion to decide if that law applied.

Since then, most of the troops have left Los Angeles, with roughly 300 Guard forces remaining. But the issue has drawn more attention in recent days, as the Trump administration deploys National Guard forces to Washington, D.C.

The administration says that deployment is necessary to support law enforcement and crack down on violent crime, but local leaders have condemned the federal government's intervention.

Strong cautioned that "Los Angeles is only the beginning," citing recent comments from Mr. Trump that she said indicated he may deploy the National Guard to other cities, including Oakland and New York.

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A "constitutional exception?"

Parts of Tuesday's testimony hinged on an alleged "constitutional exception" to the Posse Comitatus Act.

At one point, Sherman referred to a "constitutional exception." He testified that he was advised federal troops were allowed to do "four things" that would normally be barred under the law  security patrols, traffic control, crowd control and riot control  "because it was in line with what the President was directing" and "what the Secretary of Defense was directing."

But Judge Breyer was unaware of such an exception and pressed Sherman on the issue.

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"I'm not a lawyer," said Sherman.

"That may be to your credit," responded Breyer.

Breyer later asked if Sherman ever received legal advice that if the Guard task force engaged in certain activities, it would violate the Posse Comitatus Act. Sherman testified that he was told, since Mr. Trump's memo said the Los Angeles protests were a form of rebellion that prevented federal agents from doing their jobs, that triggered the constitutional exception. "This is all the way from the top of DOD down to Task Force 51," he said.

California's attorney, Strong, disputed this "mysterious constitutional exception," arguing that neither the president nor the secretary of defense "can create an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act."

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"That means all the directives we've seen the past two days are wrong and what they told soldiers to do was illegal," she said. "Those directives are based on a constitutional exception that doesn't exist."

One exception to the Posse Comitatus Act is the Insurrection Act, which lets the president use the military to enforce the law during an insurrection. Mr. Trump has not invoked that law.

"If he calls something a rebellion, it is a rebellion?"

Mr. Trump's description of the Los Angeles protests as a "rebellion" was raised again in court on Tuesday, after Sherman testified Monday that he didn't hear the term used to describe the demonstrations.

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Sherman clarified on Tuesday that he knew Mr. Trump's memo called the protests a rebellion.

The judge later pushed back against the idea that Mr. Trump has the discretion to decide if a "rebellion" is occurring. "If he calls something a rebellion, it is a rebellion?" Breyer asked, repeatedly.

The federal government's attorney, Hamilton, said that the president is commander in chief, and he's entitled to deference in that judgment. But when asked by the judge multiple times, he acknowledged that it doesn't make it a rebellion.

Breyer further questioned Mr. Trump's ability to dictate what the law allows, when Hamilton argued that there was no violation of the Posse Comitatus Act because the military was serving a protective function in Los Angeles.

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"Are you saying that because the president says it, therefore it is?" said Breyer.

"If the president says you can do X," he continued, "because the president has said it, that's sufficient to take it out of the Posse Comitatus Act?"

The trial will conclude on Wednesday.

President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
One of California's largest agricultural employers plans to close a Central Valley grape nursery by the end of the year after laying off hundreds of employees, including many supportive of a United Farm Workers effort to unionize the workforce.

Wonderful Co., owned by billionaires Stewart and Lynda Resnick, plans to shut down the majority of the nursery in Wasco, northwest of Bakersfield, and donate the farm to UC Davis, representatives for the company and the university confirmed this week.

The move comes as Wonderful Nurseries remains locked in a battle with the UFW after the union last year petitioned to represent workers growing grapevines, using a new state "card check" law that made it easier for organizers to sign up workers. Company officials said their decision was unrelated to that.

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"The decision to wind down Wonderful Nurseries was purely a business decision and in no way, shape or form related to our ongoing litigation with the UFW or the fraud so many farmworkers reported by the union," Wonderful Co. spokesman Seth Oster said.

In February, Wonderful Nurseries President Rob C. Yraceburu said in an email to employees that the states agricultural industry has seen tens of thousands of orchard and vineyard acres abandoned or removed. The table and wine grape industry is in a major downturn, meaning nurseries such as theirs have seen significantly decreased sales and record losses, with no expectation of a turnaround anytime soon.

Yet some labor experts and Wonderful employees are questioning the timing of the layoffs, which started just five months after the UFW won a key legal victory in its effort to organize the workforce.

Victor Narro, a labor studies professor at UCLA, said the closure and donation to UC Davis should be scrutinized.

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The question is, 'Whats the reason they're doing it?' he said. "Is it really, in the end, to avoid unionization of the workforce? Or is it really that they're making a sound financial decision?"

The UFW has not directly accused the Resnicks of retaliating against workers supportive of the union by closing the farm. But it has raised questions about the timing of both the layoffs and this week's confirmation that most of the nursery would be closed.

Billionaires Stewart and Lynda Resnick plan to shut down the majority of Wonderful Nurseries in Kern County and donate the farm to UC Davis. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

At its seasonal peak, the 1,400-acre nursery employs about 600 workers who would have been part of the bargaining unit, but now only 20 still work at the facility, said Elizabeth Strater, director of strategic campaigns for the union. Overall, about 100 employees now work there, according to the company.

Yraceburu told employees there will be a phasedown in shutting the grape nursery. Workers, including those employed by farm labor contractors, will have an opportunity to apply for other Wonderful worksites, he said. A company spokesman said no other Wonderful farm is facing a similar reduction in workforce.

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The nursery has been operating at a significant loss for several years, Oster said, but he did not say for exactly how long or just how much it has lost.

It was not immediately clear whether UC Davis would recognize the farmworkers union once it takes control of the nursery.

In a statement, UC Davis spokesperson Bill Kisliuk said the university is grateful for the gift, which includes the Wasco facility combined with a $5-million startup donation. The university will form an implementation committee to plan the use of the facility, Kisliuk said.

Although the university has a long history of respecting labor agreements, he said, the academic use of the site will be significantly different from the current commercial operation.

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This gift expands and builds upon one of the worlds leading agricultural research programs and will catalyze discovery and innovation, he said. We look forward to working with the Wonderful Co. to successfully transfer the Wasco facilities and property to the university later this year.

The Resnicks are big donors to state politicians and charities, but their philanthropy has been the target of recent union organizing efforts. In late July, UFW and other labor organizers gathered in Westwood outside the Hammer Museum, the recipient of more than $30 million in donations from the Resnicks, who have a building named after them. The gathering came after the union released a video that appeared to show a Wonderful employee paying other workers to participate in an anti-union protest.

In the video, the worker, who has been a prominent anti-union advocate and has organized protests, is seen handing out $100 bills from the trunk of a car and encouraging workers to sign a sheet. In a separate video, she can be heard saying that she was directed to first feed everyone and hand out $100, and then they would receive an additional $50.

The unedited versions of the videos were shown during a hearing before an administrative law judge for the state Agricultural Labor Relations Board, where Wonderful Co. has challenged the UFW's petition to represent the nursery employees. The board oversees collective bargaining for farmworkers in the state and also investigates charges of unfair labor practices.

At its seasonal peak, the 1,400-acre Wonderful Nurseries in Wasco employs about 600 workers who would have been part of the bargaining unit, but now only 20 still work at the facility, a union representative said. Overall, about 100 employees now work at the site, the company said. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Now that Wonderful is closing its Wasco grape nursery, it is unclear what will happen in the proceedings, and there will soon be few workers to unionize. But the board could issue a ruling that would affect future disputes.

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The UFW and Wonderful Co. have traded accusations over the last year: The company accused the union of using $600 COVID-19 federal relief payouts to trick farmworkers into signing the authorization cards. The company submitted nearly 150 signed declarations from nursery workers saying they had not understood that by signing the cards they were voting to unionize.

The UFW has rejected those accusations and, with the video, is suggesting that workers were paid to protest against the unionization effort at the height of the back-and-forth a year ago.

Rosa M. Silva, a Wonderful Nurseries worker and UFW organizer, said tensions have long been running high at the nursery, with some co-workers saying they dont have a right to ask for raises or benefits. She said she believes that the company would rather shut down the nursery to avoid negotiating with them, a claim that Wonderful has forcefully rejected.

In July, Silva took a day off from work and rallied outside the Hammer Museum. Protesters handed out fliers that read: "Tell Wonderful Company's billionaire owners: Respect the farm workers. Stop spending money fighting the United Farm Workers."

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This is my message to the Resnicks: If you can give millions to this art museum, which a majority of your workers will never visit, why cant you also pay your workers something fair? she said at the protest. If you care so much about being respected by artists and lovers of art, why cant you respect the people who plant, grow and harvest the products you sell?

The UFW filed its petition with the labor board in February last year, asserting that a majority of the 600-plus farmworkers at Wonderful Nurseries in Wasco had signed the authorization cards and asking that the UFW be certified as their union representative.

At the time, it appeared to be the UFWs third victorious unionization drive in a matter of months  following diminishing membership rates over the last several years.

Under the law, a union can organize farmworkers by inviting them to sign authorization cards at off-site meetings without notifying their employer. Under the old rules, farmworkers voted on union representation by secret ballot at a polling site designated by the state labor board, typically on employer property. The state law has since revitalized the unions organizing efforts, and it has gone on to organize other farms.

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Wonderful has sued the state to stop the card-check law. A ruling by a Kern County Superior Court judge that found the certification process under the card-check law was likely unconstitutional was superseded in October by an appellate court, which is still reviewing the case.

Ana Padilla, executive director of the UC Merced Community and Labor Center, said the Central Valley has been blanketed with anti-union messaging ever since the passage of the card-check law.

She also questioned the timing of shutting down the Wasco nursery. "Layoffs, store closures and offloading organized worksites are all part of the anti-unionism playbook," she said.

This article is part of The Times equity reporting initiative , funded by the James Irvine Foundation , exploring the challenges facing low-income workers and the efforts being made to address Californias economic divide.

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.
And the Ultimate Grand Prize winner of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge is ...

Taylor Stanberry.

Stanberry, who was recognized at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting today (Aug. 13) in Havana (Gadsen County), elminated 60 Burmese pythons during the 10-day competition that was held from July 10-20 this year.

She received the $10,000 grand prize for her accomplishment. Stanberry was introduced at the meeting by Sarah Funk, the FWC's Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program Coordinator.

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According to the FWC, Stanberry eliminated 33 female pythons and 27 males. The longest snake she caught was just over 9 feet and weight about 16 pounds.

When she was called up to the podium to say a few words, the 4-foot-11-inch Stanberry needed help to adjust the microphone to her height.

"I don't have much to say," she said. "Thank you so much for the win and the money."

According to Facebook, Stanberry and her husband, Rhett, live in Naples. Rhett Stanberry has a Facebook page dedicated to snakes and hunting.

They also have a YouTube Channel and post content on Instagram.

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A total of $25,000 in prize money was distributed to winners in three categories  professional, novice and military. The other winners were not announced at the meeting.

Taylor Stanberry is the 2025 Florida Python Challenge Ultimate Grand Prize Winner. She received $10,000 for eliminating 60 Burmese pythons during the 10-day competition in July.

More: Video shows gator chomp on invasive python, swim away with it in its jaws

How many pythons were eliminated during the 2025 Florida Python Challenge?

Funk said 294 pythons were removed  the most of any python challenges so far. The Python Challenge started in 2013 to help raise awareness about the invasive species and to take a significant step in removing the snake that is negatively impacting the South Florida ecosystem.

"Every python removed is a win for the habitat," Funk said.

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. There were 934 total registered participants this year coming from two countries (U.S. and Canada). That was up from 857 participants in 2025.

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"And we had 30 states represented (including Florida)," Thompson said.

Who were the other 2025 Florida Python winners?

PROFESSIONAL WINNER

Donna Kalil

Pythons: 56

Prize: $2,500

PROFESSTIONAL RUNNER-UP

Hannah Gray

Pythons: 22

Prize: $1,500

LONGEST PYTHON PRIZE

Kennith Chamberland

Length: 9 feet, 8 inches

Prize: $1,000

NOVICE

Most Pythons Prize

Krista Hoekstra

Pythons: 14

Prize: $2,5000

Most Pythons Runner-Up Prize

Kymberly Clark

Pythons: 7

Prize: $1,500

Longest Python Prize

Michale Marousky

Length: 15 feet, 11 inches

Prize: $1,000

MILITARY  Active Duty and Veteran

Most Pythons Prize

John Southworth (U.S. Army)

Pythons: 5

Prize: $2,500

Most Pythons Runner-Up Prize

Matthew Jamison (U.S. Air Force)

Pythons: 3

Prize: $1,500

Longest Python Prize

Jonathan Miller (U.S. Air Force)

Length: 11 feet, 2 inches

Prize: $1,000

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.

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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?

Taylor Stanberry, center, accepts her $10,000 check on Aug. 13, 2025 for being the Ultimate Grand Prize Winner of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge. She eliminated 60 snakes during the July 10-20 competition.

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

Taylor Stanberry, right, with her husband Rhett Stanberry holding a Burmese python they caught in the Everglades. Taylor won the $10,000 grand prize in the 2025 Florida Python Challenge.

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.

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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.

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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 Naples Daily News: Who won the 2025 Florida Python Challenge?
At the entrance to the CDC in Atlanta, members of the community piled flowers, balloons and stuffed animals alongside signs thanking CDC workers and DeKalb County police Officer David Rose, who was killed in Friday's shooting. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder

Public health workers and gun safety advocates gathered at a rally Tuesday night to commemorate last weeks deadly shooting near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and demand policy changes to prevent future instances of gun violence.

At the entrance to the CDC, members of the community piled flowers, balloons and stuffed animals alongside signs thanking CDC workers and DeKalb County police Officer David Rose, who was killed in the shooting.

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Down the street at Emorys Rollins School of Public Health, leading voices in epidemiology, pediatric health and violence prevention took the stage in a packed auditorium to describe what they saw as a culture of misinformation that contributed to Fridays attack. The rally was organized by Georgia Majority for Gun Safety and Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety.

Gun safety and public health advocates gathered at an evening rally at Emorys Rollins School of Public Health. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder

Georgia is among the bottom third of state gun violence rates in a country that is doing poorly across developed nations, said Heather Hallett, the founder and director of Georgia Majority for Gun Safety. So we are really in a unique position in terms of the way gun violence impacts us.

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said he was deeply saddened by the shooting, and visited the CDC campus Monday to meet with agency leadership and survey the damage.

We are actively supporting CDC staff on the ground and across the agency, he wrote in a post on X, adding We honor their service. We stand with them. And we remain united in our mission to protect and improve the health of every American.

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But public health advocates  including former employees of the CDC  point to a rise in public mistrust of vaccines they say is fueled by Kennedys rhetoric and policy decisions on vaccines. Earlier this year, he dismissed all 17 members of a key vaccine panel at the CDC and replaced them with a slate of eight hand-picked appointees, many of whom are seen as vaccine skeptics. The panel later voted to ban thimerosal, a harmless preservative used in a small portion of flu vaccines, in what critics say is a nod to vaccine skeptics who have fixated on the chemicals use.

Last week, Kennedy also terminated 22 grants  including one at Emory University  as part of a coordinated wind-down of research studying mRNA vaccine technology. Vaccines using mRNA were first developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the technology won a Nobel Prize in 2023.

Dr. Ben Lopman, an epidemiologist and former CDC employee who studies vaccines, spoke at Tuesdays rally at Emory University. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder

Dr. Ben Lopman, an epidemiologist and former CDC employee who studies vaccines, said at Tuesdays rally that misinformation about vaccines has reached the highest levels in our government and society under the current administration.

RFK Jr. was arguably the nations leading anti-vaccine activist before being elevated to HHS secretary, Lopman said. These wrong ideas are now embedded in everyday conversations, as well as official policy.

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Dr. Sofia Chaudhary, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta and an assistant professor at Emory University, also drew a link between mistrust of public health workers and Fridays attack on the CDC.

Dr. Sofia Chaudhary, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta and an assistant professor at Emory University, also spoke at Tuesdays rally. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder

This past Friday, more than 180 bullets were fired, but the attack on public health went beyond the gunfire, Chaudhary said. Misinformation is a serious and growing threat to public health that leads to erosion of trust, delays in care and vaccinations, and deepening of social division.

Speakers at the rally also condemned inaction on gun safety legislation at Georgias state Capitol. During the 2025 legislative session, legislators introduced a number of bills aimed at improving gun safety, but did not pass any of them before the session concluded. Lawmakers will return to Atlanta in January.

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There are over a dozen bills held in limbo in committee at our state Capitol that use evidence-based solutions to address gun violence, said Mike Greenwald, a doctor and co-chair of Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety.

Lawmakers are aware of the evidence and the arguments, he added. What holds them back is likely a political calculus.

Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety and Georgia Majority for Gun Safety will be launching a new public information campaign on gun safety next month, Greenwald said.

GBI releases updates in ongoing investigation

At a Tuesday news conference, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation released new insights into the motives of 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White, a Kennesaw resident who police say is the suspect in the shooting.

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Police said nearly 200 rounds of ammunition struck six separate CDC buildings over the course of the attack, and they recovered 500 shell casings from the CVS Pharmacy where Whites body was found dead with what police say was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. White had broken into his fathers safe and stolen five firearms that were used in the attack, including a rifle, a shotgun and a handgun, police said.

Patrick Joseph Whites drivers license photo was released Tuesday by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

All indications in our investigation was that [the guns] were secure and that he forced his way into the safe that contained the weapons, said GBI Director Chris Hosey.

For the first time, officers publicly confirmed that White had expressed discontent with the COVID-19 vaccinations. Reporting from the New York Times and CNN alleged that the shooter blamed his health issues on the COVID-19 vaccine, but police had not publicly confirmed the shooters motivation before Tuesday.

GBI also released Whites drivers license photograph for the first time Tuesday.

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At the entrance to the CDC in Atlanta, members of the community piled flowers, balloons, and stuffed animals alongside signs thanking CDC workers and DeKalb County police Officer David Rose, who was killed in Fridays shooting. (Photo by Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder)

Public health workers and gun safety advocates gathered at a rally Tuesday night to commemorate last weeks deadly shooting near Emory University and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and demand policy changes to prevent future instances of gun violence.

At the entrance to the CDC, members of the community piled flowers, balloons and stuffed animals alongside signs thanking CDC workers and DeKalb County police Officer David Rose, who was killed in the shooting.

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Down the street at Emorys Rollins School of Public Health, leading voices in epidemiology, pediatric health, and violence prevention took the stage in a packed auditorium to describe what they saw as a culture of misinformation that contributed to Fridays attack. The rally was organized by Georgia Majority for Gun Safety and Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety.

Georgia is among the bottom third of state gun violence rates in a country that is doing poorly across developed nations, said Heather Hallett, the founder and director of Georgia Majority for Gun Safety. So we are really in a unique position in terms of the way gun violence impacts us.

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he was deeply saddened by the shooting, and visited the CDC campus Monday to meet with agency leadership and survey the damage.

We are actively supporting CDC staff on the ground and across the agency, he wrote in a post on X, adding We honor their service. We stand with them. And we remain united in our mission to protect and improve the health of every American.

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But public health advocates  including former employees of the CDC  point to a rise in public mistrust of vaccines they say is fueled by Kennedys rhetoric and policy decisions on vaccines. Earlier this year, he dismissed all 17 members of a key vaccine panel at the CDC and replaced them with a slate of eight hand-picked appointees, many of whom are seen as vaccine skeptics. The panel later voted to ban thimerosal, a harmless preservative used in a small portion of flu vaccines, in what critics say is a nod to vaccine skeptics who have fixated on the chemicals use.

Vaccines

Last week, Kennedy terminated 22 grants  including one at Emory University  as part of a coordinated wind-down of research studying mRNA vaccine technology. Vaccines using mRNA were first developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the technology won a Nobel Prize in 2023.

Dr. Ben Lopman, an epidemiologist and former CDC employee who studies vaccines, said at Tuesdays rally that misinformation about vaccines has reached the highest levels in our government and society under the current administration.

RFK Jr. was arguably the nations leading anti-vaccine activist before being elevated to HHS secretary, Lopman said. These wrong ideas are now embedded in everyday conversations, as well as official policy.

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Dr. Sofia Chaudhary, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta and an assistant professor at Emory University, also drew a link between mistrust of public health workers and Fridays attack on the CDC.

This past Friday, more than 180 bullets were fired, but the attack on public health went beyond the gunfire, Chaudhary said. Misinformation is a serious and growing threat to public health that leads to erosion of trust, delays in care and vaccinations, and deepening of social division.

Speakers at the rally also condemned inaction on gun safety legislation at Georgias state Capitol. During the 2025 legislative session, legislators introduced a number of bills aimed at improving gun safety, but did not pass any of them before the session concluded. Lawmakers will return to Atlanta in January.

There are over a dozen bills held in limbo in committee at our state Capitol that use evidence-based solutions to address gun violence, said Mike Greenwald, a doctor and co-chair of Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety.

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Lawmakers are aware of the evidence and the arguments, he added. What holds them back is likely a political calculus.

Georgia Clinicians for Gun Safety and Georgia Majority for Gun Safety will launch a new public information campaign on gun safety next month, Greenwald said.

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(NewsNation)  Rapper and podcast host Camron has taken his monthslong feud with Omar Gooding to a new level by casting him in a movie that doesnt exist.

Camron took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal he hired Gooding for a fake movie, the latest diss in his back-and-forth with the actor, according to Complex.

When I did my freestyle, I said, Please dont mention me with no Omar Gooding. He did another record, Camron said in his video, in which he admitted Goodings songs are actually pretty good.

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Beckhams feuding? The clues fueling the family drama

Camron released clip of Omar Gooding on fake movie set

Camron said he came up with a $3,500 plan to hire Gooding to work on a movie in Miami.

In the video, Camron showed Gooding on set signing paperwork, alleging it gave him the right to do whatever he wanted with the footage, which he planned to air on his show.

Actor Omar Gooding visits Hallmark Channels Home & Family at Universal Studios Hollywood on Nov. 15, 2019, in Universal City, California. (Photo by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)

Alex Cooper feud hinted by Alix Earle in new TikTok video

That movie never coming out, he said. I booked you. And I was laughing at you behind the scenes. I was there. I was sitting there laughing at you.

Camron and Gooding have been feuding since December, when he referred to the actor as Omar Gooding Jr. and said he would reach out to 50 Cent to resurrect his career, Complex reported.

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Gooding is the brother of actor Cuba Gooding Jr.

Omar Gooding vows diabolical diss

The beef may not die anytime soon, after Camron warned Gooding that if he released another track, hed book him for his goddaughters baby shower.

Gooding responded, saying his next diss track would be diabolical while thanking him for a free trip to Miami and for paying him for a movie thats not coming out.

Keep booking, Ima keep spendin it, 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 NewsNation.
Just outside of Camanche, shovels are moving rock to make way for a new solar array. However, not everyone is on the same page. about the project.

On certain projects in our county they asked for two miles from the Wapsipinicon River and that gave me cause for concern and just really changing the landscape, said TJ Burken, who lives in Charlotte, in Clinton County.

(Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com)

The cause for concern is that its near environmentally sensitive areas, he said.

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NextEra Energy Resources says it is looking to preserve the land.

We didnt just plop rock down, said Megan Murphy-Salyer, a project lead for the company. We scraped the topsoil off and that is seated and is going to stay there. So when this is done and we dont need it anymore, well pull all this up, take it all away, well spread that topsoil back so that this land can continue to be fertile, like we know and expect in Iowa.

The project will bring 300 jobs, and generate enough power for 30,000 homes.

We are here to partner with the community, to build a project that works for everyone, said Murphy-Salyer. That includes our voluntary landowners, that includes the neighbors of the project.

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One farmer and his family rejected the companys offer to build the solar panels on their land.

As a farmer, the main concern would be if a tornado or some weather event happened, said Mitch Nielsen, whose family owns a farm outside Low Moor, Iowa. That would cause the panels to be (destroyed) and then come onto our property, then how do we clean it up and that type of a thing.

Farmer Keith Boysen took the offer, giving more than 200 acres to the 900-acre project. He believes the green energy source will have a positive impact.

In reality Im sure it will be used here, but you know wherever that power can flow to, where its needed, if its a surplus, is beneficial to the State of Iowa and to our country and to the needs of this world, said Boysen.

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Construction is expected to be done in December of 2026.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
A memorial to Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard in St. Bernard Parish, pictured in July 2025. (Piper Hutchinson/Louisiana Illuminator)

ST. BERNARD PARISH  Before being elevated by Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, the slave-owning new namesake of the states largest National Guard training facility was at best a footnote in history, according to a review of what few documents are available to trace his background.

Camp Beauregard, founded in 1917 in Pineville, was originally named after Confederate Gen. Pierre Gustav Toutant Beauregard, a St. Bernard Parish native who initiated the attack on Fort Sumter, South Carolina, to begin the Civil War. In 2023, Beauregards name was removed from the facility amid a nationwide effort to remove monuments and honorifics to Confederate veterans and leaders.

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Landry announced in July the facility would be renamed after the Confederate generals father, Jacques Toutant-Beauregard.

The governors decision to restore the Beauregard name is in keeping with the style of President Donald Trumps administration, which has restored the former Confederate names of military installations by selecting unrelated military heroes.

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But Landrys choice of honoree is different.

For starters, Camp Beauregards new namesake is shown in nearly every historical document and on his grave as Jacques Toutant. According to a biography of his son, P.G.T. Beauregard, Napoleon in Gray, by historian T. Harry Williams, the future Confederate general began going by a single last name, Beauregard, when he enrolled at West Point in an attempt to Americanize himself.

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Jacques Toutant is also different from Trumps other restored honorees as he is related to the original namesake. He also does not have any distinctive military accomplishments and was a slave owner, which to many make him a worse choice than his son, who adopted more racially moderate stances after the war.

It signals to the Black citizens in [Louisiana] that [Landry] thinks youre second-class and he doesnt care if youre offended, University of North Carolina Charlotte historian Karen Cox, a scholar on the legacy of Confederate monuments, said of Landrys decision.

Landry spokeswoman Kate Kelly did not respond to a request for comment as to why the National Guard facility was being renamed, who was involved in the decision or why Landry opted to name it after a slave owner.

Little is known about Jacques Toutant other than that he owned a sugarcane plantation in St. Bernard Parish that was later named Contreras. Enslaved people were forced to work on his fields and in his home. Toutant also served as a captain in the Louisiana Militia, though historical records dont tie him to any particular battle.

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Six historians at four universities contacted for this report declined to comment on his history, citing how little they as individuals  and historians as a group  know about the elder Beauregard.

Very little has been written on Contreras Plantation or on Jacques Beauregard, apart from brief mentions in biographies of P.G.T Beauregard, LSU historian John Bardes said.

The most detailed records of Toutants life come in the Slave Schedules of the 1850 census, which list the age, residence and owner of each enslaved person in the United States.

Toutant is listed as the owner of 86 enslaved people, ranging from a 60-year-old Black woman to a 2-year-old mixed-race child. The names of the enslaved people Toutant owned were never recorded.

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According to P.G.T. Beauregards biographer, T. Harry Williams, Toutant forced an enslaved woman to nurse his children, a practice that often forcefully separated Black women from their own infants.

Even on his home turf in St. Bernard Parish, the name Jacques Toutant is all but forgotten.

The site of the Contreras Plantation, where a large home burned down in the mid-20th century, is marked with a decrepit memorial to P.G.T. Beauregard. Enclosed on three sides by barbed-wire topped fences, the grassy patches that surround the memorial were littered with empty beer cans and rotted picnic tables when visited by a reporter in late July.

The white brick pyramid memorial at the Contreras site was financed by Judge Leander Perez, according to local historian and author Sean Michael Chick. Perez is remembered as a dogged segregationist who was excommunicated from the Catholic Church for his efforts to obstruct the integration of schools in New Orleans. He also attempted to stop civil rights workers from entering Plaquemines Parish to help Black residents register to vote.

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Once pristine, the pyramid was covered in grayish muck during a reporters recent visit. It only mentions Toutant as among the generals ancestors.

Less than 2 miles down the road, Toutant is buried in the St. Bernard Parish Catholic Cemetery. The engraved door to his tomb is broken in over a dozen places, his name hardly legible through the cracks and the wear of time.

Jacques Toutants grave in St. Bernard Parish, pictured in July 2025. (Piper Hutchinson/Louisiana Illuminator)

The grave also bears a medallion commemorating Toutant as a veteran of the War of 1812.

It is on this veteran status that Landry chose to honor Toutant.

By restoring the name Camp Beauregard, we honor a legacy of courage and service that dates back over two centuries, Landry said in his announcement about the renaming.

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Through a public records request, the Illuminator obtained the historical documents the Louisiana National Guard said it used to justify renaming its Pineville training base after Toutant. They included militia payroll records that span from Dec. 16, 1814, to March 20, 1815. They indicate Toutant served under Col. Pierre Denys de la Ronde, who led the Louisiana Militia at the Battle of New Orleans and later earned the rank of major general.

The records do not definitively place Toutant at the site of any particular battle or indicate he earned any military honors. A Louisiana National Guard press release announcing the renaming notes his regiment took part in a prelude to the Battle of New Orleans, although historians have noted only minor skirmishes along Lake Borgne before the wars final conflict in Chalmette.

Despite having no details on Toutants militia service, Maj. Gen. Thomas Friloux, adjutant general of the Louisiana National Guard, praised him as an American hero.

Were naming our premier training installation after an American hero and patriot who fought for the freedom of the city of New Orleans, the State of Louisiana, and the United States of America against a foreign invader, Friloux said.

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When asked about this discrepancy, Louisiana National Guard spokeswoman Lt. Col. Noel Collins referred questions to the Society of the War of 1812s Louisiana chapter, which she said was consulted for information about Toutant.

Chapter president Brig. Gen. Rodney Painting, who is listed online as an assistant adjutant general in the Louisiana National Guard, did not respond to a request for comment.

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New campaign in North Carolina targets buying guns on behalf of others

Federal and local officials in North Carolina are ramping up efforts to stop straw purchases, which is when someone buys a gun for another person. They are warning that the crime can carry steep prison time and fines.

Gun buyers in North Carolina must fill out an ATF form.

However, that becomes a problem when you include your information knowing youre buying the firearm for someone else.

READ MORE: Local guns tied to crimes, straw purchasers involved in illegal trade

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Signs reading A favor can be a felony hang inside Hyatt Guns on Wilkinson Boulevard.

Its a renewed campaign announced on Wednesday to stop straw purchasing.

If you buy a gun for someone else, youre breaking the law, said Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western North Carolina District.

Ferguson said its a crime his prosecutors see often.

Xana Dove, a former Gastonia police officer, was charged with several felonies, including straw purchasing.

Straw purchasing is a key part in the violent crime. It is the channel to which violent crime happens, Furgeson said.

This is not a victimless crime, said Alecia Jones, special agent in-charge, ATF Charlotte. These guns are often used in criminal activities and could result in the death of someone you love.

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That is why different agencies are putting out the warning from billboards across Charlotte to radio ads and more.

Gun shop employees are the first line of defense when it comes to straw purchases and guns falling into the hands of criminals, said Neal Conner, general manager at Hyatt Guns.

Conner said he and his employees take the crime seriously and are always on the lookout for it.

In asking questions, you can really qualify your customer and know really, really quick whether that person is buying a firearm for themself or someone who is a prohibited person, Conner said.

The campaign is a proactive approach to an ongoing problem with the feds and local law enforcement hoping education will put a stop to it.

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People who are caught buying a gun for someone else could spend 15 years in prison and be forced to pay a fine up to $250,000.

VIDEO: Local guns tied to crimes, straw purchasers involved in illegal trade
The Government of Canada will spend more than $25 million on 33 projects aimed at improving electric-vehicle charging availability.

Most of that money will be spent in Quebec, and the government didnt offer a detailed timeline for construction.

Claude Guay, parliamentary secretary to the minister of energy and natural resources, announced the funding Aug. 13. All of the money will come from his ministry, but it will be split three ways.

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Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) earmarked more than $9.7 million for 23 projects to install more than 850 EV chargers across Canada, many of which will be in Quebec, Guay said in a statement.

The stations will be built at workplaces, public spaces, along highways and in multi-unit buildings.

The money will come from the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP).

With todays announcement, we are accelerating the transition to zero emission vehicles, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson said in the same statement.

Too few EV chargers

But Brain Kingston, CEO of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association, which represents the interests of the Detroit Three automakers in Canada, said the funding and number of charging stations fall short.

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There is a large and growing public charging infrastructure gap in Canada that requires the installation of 40,000 chargers every year to close. Meeting arbitrary federally mandated EV sales targets is impossible at the current pace of the infrastructure rollout, he told Automotive News Canada.

Starting next year, Ottawa will require that 20 per cent of all new light-duty vehicles sold be zero-emission vehicles, which include gas-powered plug-in hybrids. That benchmark is set to climb annually to reach 100 per cent in 2035.

The federal government is under pressure to repeal that EV sales mandate. Automakers have argued they cant meet the sales target and would have to pull gas-powered vehicles off the market to achieve it  which would undermine domestic production.

The current number of charging stations falls far short of what would be needed to meet and sustain those goals and demands, if theyre met.

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In a 2021 analysis commissioned by Natural Resources Canada, Dunsky Energy and Climate estimated Canada needed 52,000 chargers by this year alone.

But the firm found there are currently a little more than 35,000 charging stations across the country  well below the 100,520 Canada needs to meet its policy goals for electric vehicles, researchers with the Montreal-based consultancy said in a report.

While todays announcement to support additional EV charging projects is helpful, a comprehensive national plan to build widespread, convenient, and reliable public charging infrastructure across Canada is urgently needed, Kingston said.

According to the most recent data from Natural Resources Canada, 88 per cent of Canadas charging ports are in B.C., Ontario and Quebec  provinces which accounted for 92 per cent of new EV sales last year.

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David Adams, the CEO of the Global Automakers of Canada, which represents overseas brands in Canada, called the announcement a bit of a nothing burger.

While always good to see the government investing to build out the infrastructure, its own reports indicate it is woefully behind in, more strategic investments elsewhere across the country may make a larger difference to spurring uptake, he said. What we really need is focused government attention and action on the unrealizable targets established under the countrys ... ZEV mandates.

Other EV infrastructure funding

Aside from the funding for public charging stations for light-duty vehicles, NRCan also announced $8 million for six projects under the Energy Innovation Program (EIP). These projects focus on the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle sectors and electric fleets.

Finally, NRCans Green Freight Program (GFP) will spend $7.9 million on four projects, which are designed to help the transportation, construction and public works industry modernize their fleets, lower fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas.

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The federal government says on-road transportation accounts for about 18 per cent of Canadas total greenhouse gas emissions.

Since 2016, Ottawa has allocated more than $1 billion in funding to support the deployment of electric-vehicle charging stations across the country.
An Ontario appeals court on Aug. 11 upheld a ruling that Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) must pay compensation to the families of those killed in the downing of Flight PS752 in Iran, dismissing the airline's bid to overturn the earlier decision.

The decision relates to UIA Flight PS752, which was shot down on Jan. 8, 2020, minutes after takeoff from Tehran by two surface-to-air missiles launched by Iran's air defense forces.

All 176 people aboard  citizens of Iran, Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan, Germany, and the U.K.  were killed.

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International law requires the airline company to pay up to $180,000 per passenger in damages if found at fault, with higher sums possible if negligence is proven. In 2024, an Ontario court found UIA negligent for failing to properly assess risks before operating its scheduled flight from Tehran, removing the carrier's right to limit payouts to the victims' families.

The appeals court rejected UIA's arguments that the trial judge erred in awarding costs to multiple groups of plaintiffs' lawyers, finding no grounds to interfere with what it called a "nuanced and discretionary" assessment.

The court also ordered UIA to pay the respondents' legal costs for the appeal.

After the plane crash, Iran initially denied responsibility, blaming mechanical failure, but later admitted its forces had mistakenly targeted the jet amid heightened tensions with the United States.

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The shootdown occurred hours after Iran launched missile strikes on U.S. forces in Iraq. Tehran refused to allow an independent investigation at the crash site.

An Iranian court sentenced 10 military personnel over the incident in April 2023, but the International Coordination and Response Group, representing the victims' countries, dismissed the proceedings as a "sham."

Ukraine, Canada, Sweden, and the U.K. brought a case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in July 2023, accusing Iran of violating international law by targeting a civilian aircraft.

Iran, which later became a key ally to Moscow during its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has rejected the allegations as politically motivated and continues to dispute the jurisdiction of both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the ICJ.

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Read also: Everything we know about Russias rapid advance in Donetsk Oblast ahead of key talks with Trump

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The Canadian province of Nova Scotia is facing pushback for what some have called "draconian" restrictions as it tries to limit wildfire risk in extremely dry conditions.

Last week, Nova Scotia banned all hiking, fishing and use of vehicles like ATVs in wooded areas, with rule breakers facing a C$25,000 ($18,000) fine. A tip line has been set up to report violations.

The Canadian Constitution Foundation, a non-profit that defends charter rights in the country, called the ban a "dangerous example of 'safetyism' and creeping authoritarianism".

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Tens of thousands of residents are under evacuation alerts in eastern Canada as the country experiences its second worst wildfire season on record.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston says human activity is responsible for almost all wildfires in the Atlantic province - official statistics from 2009 say 97% of such blazes are caused by people.

On Wednesday, he defended the ban, which was announced last week, calling the province a "tinder box" that has not seen any rain since June.

"I get that people want to go for a hike or want to go for a walk in the woods with their dog," Houston said during a wildfire update with officials.

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"But how would you like to be stuck in the woods while there's a fire burning around you?"

He said the restrictions will be loosened once enough rain falls to mitigate the risk.

"In the meantime go to the beach," he added.

Houston confirmed that 12 people have been fined so far for violating the ban.

"It's certainly my hope that every single one of those is fully prosecuted and collected," said the premier. "It's just too serious of a situation by now."

One of those penalised is military veteran Jeff Evely.

On Friday, Mr Evely posted a video on Facebook of himself going to a Department of Natural Resources office saying he wanted to challenge the ban in court, and "the only way for me to do that is to get the fine".

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"I'm not trying to make trouble for you guys," Mr Evely, who ran as a candidate for the People's Party of Canada in April's federal election, is heard telling an official.

He is later seen walking into the woods, before going back to the office where he is fined C$28,872.50.

Others defend the restrictions as a needed precaution since the province has seen two fires a day for the last week on average.

Stephen Maher, a political journalist who lives in rural Nova Scotia, argued in an opinion piece for the Globe and Mail newspaper that there is little chance his run in the woods would have sparked a fire.

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He added, "but fires are mostly caused by dimwitted and careless people, and there is no way of separating them from their careful neighbours, so the ban is necessary".

In a separate blog post, former Conservative Party campaign manager Fred DeLorey said that given the lack of rain, "when the provincial government announced a temporary ban on travelling in the woods due to extreme fire risk, I didn't complain. I exhaled".

Officials fear a repeat of 2023, the worst-ever fire season in Canada and in Nova Scotia, when 220 fires razed more than 25,000 hectares of land in the province.

The province of New Brunswick has brought in similar restrictions, barring use of public land.

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On Wednesday, the province of Newfoundland and Labrador banned off-road vehicles in forested areas until at least next week. It has brought in fines of up to C$150,000 for fire ban violations.

Canada's 2025 wildfire season is the second-worst on record, after 2023.

Fires happen naturally in many parts of the world and it's difficult to know if climate change has caused or worsened a specific wildfire because other factors are also relevant.

According to the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, climate change is making the weather conditions needed for wildfires to spread more likely.

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More than 470 blazes are currently "out of control", says the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.

One is on the western outskirts of Halifax, the largest city in Nova Scotia, which continues to burn out of control.

In New Brunswick, Premier Susan Holt called it "a tale of two fires".

She said crews had made progress on one fire, but were having less success with another blaze near the community of Miramichi.

Military and coast guard units were deployed in Newfoundland and Labrador, while the worst fires were concentrated in the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Three other provinces, British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, have also seen fire activity well above their 25-year average.
An Edinburgh arts venue has indicated Scotland's deputy first minister Kate Forbes will not be invited back to speak at future events, because of opposition to her views on trans rights.

Ms Forbes, a devout Christian, was interviewed last Thursday at the Summerhall venue as part of the Herald newspaper's series of events at the Fringe festival.

The venue has now said the booking was "an oversight" and it would be reviewing its policies to ensure the "safety and wellbeing" of performers it works with.

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Forbes said that attempts to "cancel" people because of their beliefs "undermines democracy".

Summerhall is a venue with lots of different facilities, some of which are used by artists as studio space.

The First Minister, John Swinney, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar and pollster Sir John Curtice have also been interviewed at the Herald's Unspun events.

The Fringe event passed off without incident, but BBC Scotland understands a number of Summerhall users strongly object to the deputy first minister's views on gender.

Forbes is not facing any sort of ban from entering the building which includes a cinema and cafe, but a similar event featuring her would be unlikely to go ahead.

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In a statement, the Summerhall venue said: "This event was booked as a series of longform interviews prior to the guest list being confirmed.

"Summerhall Arts primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of the artists and performers we work with, and going forward we will be developing robust, proactive inclusion and wellbeing policies that would prevent this oversight in our bookings process happening again."

The story was first reported by the Scottish Daily Mail, who suggested the MSP might be banned from the venue.

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Forbes has come under fire in the past for her views on gay marriage, abortion and trans rights.

During the 2023 SNP leadership election, when she ran against Humza Yousaf, she was criticised after telling Sky News that having children outside of marriage was "wrong" according to her faith as a member of the Free Church of Scotland.

'Freedom of speech'

Following Summerhall's statement, Forbes said: "'As I stated at the event, I fervently believe in freedom of speech. Any effort to 'cancel' people, especially politicians, undermines democracy.

"Many people attended the Herald event and it is important that we could freely discuss and debate matters in a respectful manner.

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"I respect and acknowledge the fact that in a liberal democracy there are people who will agree with me and others who will disagree with me.

"That is all the more reason to create events where the audience and journalists can question politicians openly, as the Herald did."

Finance Secretary Shona Robison - who was previously deputy first minister - has defended her cabinet colleague.

She told BBC Scotland News that Summerhall's reaction was "unwise and unnecessary".

Ms Robison said that Kate Forbes "should be able to go to venues and give her views".

Forbes announced last week that she does not intend to seek re-election at next year's Holyrood election as she wants to devote more time to raising her young daughter.
Cape Verde has declared a state of emergency on the islands of Sao Vicente and Santo Antao, after deadly floods which killed at least nine people and forced 1,500 from their homes.

The state of emergency activates crisis funds and urgent infrastructure repairs in the Atlantic Ocean islands off the west coast of Africa.

Monday's flash floods were triggered by Tropical Storm Erin, leading to 193mm (7.6in) of rain in just five hours, far above Sao Vicente's annual average.

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Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia told the BBC the floods were "catastrophic".

Rescue teams are desperately searching for missing people, while roads, homes and vehicles have been severely damaged.

Commenting on the heavy rains, Ester Brito from the country's meteorology institute told Reuters news agency that the weather conditions were uncommon.

"It is a rare situation because what was recorded is above our 30-year climatologist average."

Speaking to local media outlet Expresso das Ilhas, Ms Brito added that the country did not have the radar equipment required to forecast the extent of the rains.

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Describing the moment the floods hit, Interior Minister Paulo Rocha said the night was "marked by panic and despair", Reuters reports.

Alveno Yali, a community organiser in Sao Vicente, the worst affected Island, described the situation as "an incredible moment of heavy rains, strong winds, and flash floods, resulting in significant material losses".

The Cape Verdean diaspora especially in France, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the US have launched urgent crowdfunding campaigns.

Tens of thousands of euros have already been raised to buy food, water, hygiene products, and emergency supplies.

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Andreia Levy, president of Hello Cabo Verde in France, told the BBC that the entire diaspora was mobilised and they planned to deliver aid directly.

You may also be interested in:

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A car crashed into a Circle K gas station convenience store in east Las Vegas on Wednesday morning, leaving one person injured, police said.

The crash occurred on the northwest corner of Nellis Boulevard and Sahara Avenue around 6:40 a.m.

One person was transported to a hospital, and the driver was taken into custody for suspected impairment, Las Vegas Metropolitan police said.

LVMPD investigates a car that crashed into a Circle K at Nellis Blvd. and Sahara Ave. on Aug. 13, 2025. (KLAS) LVMPD investigates a car that crashed into a Circle K at Nellis Blvd. and Sahara Ave. on Aug. 13, 2025. (KLAS) LVMPD investigates a car that crashed into a Circle K at Nellis Blvd. and Sahara Ave. on Aug. 13, 2025. (KLAS)

A black VW Beetle crashed into the stores entrance. The car was removed from the scene on a flatbed wrecker.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
CINCINNATI, Ohio (WDTN)  A driver was seriously injured after a police chase ended in a crash with a school bus.

Cincinnati Fire & EMS officials report a crash involving a school bus occurred near the intersection of Duck Creek Road and Red Bank Expressway in Madisonville on Tuesday. The crash happened around 2:20 p.m.

The 22-year-old driver of the vehicle was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, according to Cincinnati officials.

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Police say the driver injured was a person being pursued by the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office. Officers allegedly tried to pull the car over on I-71 when the driver fled, crashing into the school bus just moments later, according to our partners at WLWT.

The bus belongs to Forest Hills School District. Cincinnati police say at least three people were on the bus, but no one was injured.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Are you an educator looking for a fresh, clean start this back-to-school season? Well, youre in luck.

Mr Wash Car Wash has announced that it will be offering free car washes to all teachers, school staff and school administrators to kick off the new school year. All employees have to do is pull up to any of Mr Wash Car Washs locations and show their school ID to receive the complimentary wash.

As schools are back in session, we know how important it is to have a clean car, said Evan Harris, COO of Mr Wash Car Wash. We want to support our local school communities by offering this free service. Our team is excited to help kick off the school year on a bright note.

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Speeding camera program to begin in some Leesburg school zones

The business has 11 locations, mainly in Virginia and Maryland, with one in Delaware.

To receive a free car wash, school employees can visit any of the following locations:

8218 Leesburg Pike. Tysons Corner, VA

3407 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA

420 S Van Dorn St. Alexandria, VA

4148 S Four Mile Run Dr. Arlington, VA

101 N Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA

5901 Columbia Pike. Baileys Crossroads, VA

13817 Lee Hwy. Centreville, VA

3013 Gallows Rd. Falls Church, VA

7996 Georgia Ave. Silver Spring, MD

3817 Dupont Ave. Kensington, MD

19898 Hebron Rd. Rehoboth Beach, DE

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WGHP)  Thomas Dundon, the owner of the Carolina Hurricanes, has reached an agreement to purchase the NBAs Portland Trail Blazers for more than $4 billion, according to ESPNs Shams Charania.

ESPN reports that Dundon intends to keep the team based in Portland, Oregon.

Dundon bought the Hurricanes in 2017, inheriting a team that had failed to make the playoffs for nearly a decade prior. The Hurricanes have since made the playoffs every year under Dundons ownership.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
China, Egypt launch poultry farming training program to empower rural Egyptian women

Xinhua) 10:05, August 13, 2025

Women take a poultry farming training class after the launch ceremony of a poultry farming training program in Menoufia Governorate, Egypt, on Aug. 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

CAIRO, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, together with local partners, has launched a poultry farming training program in Egypt's Menoufia Governorate to help rural women gain practical skills and boost household incomes.

Organized in partnership with the Egyptian National Alliance for Civil Development Work and Chinese agricultural firm New Hope Liuhe Co., Ltd., the program shares Chinese agricultural expertise in the effective management of poultry farming cycles.

Aya Abdeen, a technical manager and veterinary doctor at New Hope Egypt, said the training covers the essential aspects of the poultry rearing process, especially for Sasso chickens, from the day-old chick phase through to the point of sale in the market.

During the launch ceremony on Monday, Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang said the training program is "an innovative practice to support Egypt's poverty alleviation efforts and empower rural women, enhancing the mutual understanding between the Chinese and Egyptian peoples."

Sabah Mohamed Abdel-Salam, a 47-year-old widow and one of the project's beneficiaries, said the project is "a great opportunity to earn income from home while caring for my family."

"I believe it will help me raise poultry, increase their number, and support my children without leaving the house," she added.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
GLOBALink | Int'l buyers flock to China's Dongguan for high-quality, innovative products Pub Date:25-08-13 09:58 Source:Xinhua This summer, a growing number of international buyers have embarked on trips to China's Dongguan for high-quality and innovative products. #GLOBALink Editor:Qin Shuying

Related News GLOBALink | South Korean merchant runs sho... Feature: Outdoor sports fuel summer econom... GLOBALink | Dominican entrepreneur and his... China's auto industry reports steady growt...
GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA)  New beginnings are ahead for the Gaffney Carnegie Library as crews work to turn the space into to the Carolina Rising: A Revolutionary Experience.

The experience will allow visitors a chance to learn about the Revolutionary War and South Carolinas role in it by using technology, according to organizers.

LeighAnn Moon, Director of Marketing and Tourism for the City of Gaffney, said AI and hologram technology will be used to tell the stories of people who lived in Cherokee County during the war.

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We will be actually able to communicate with some of the original settlers of Cherokee County and the men that participated in the Revolutionary War battles, Moon explained. [And] the women, the enslaved, and the children that were left on the home front and what experiences they had.

Moon also explained that the AI technology will be localized and the information shared will come from primary sources.

We are going to be programing our system inside the building, so it will be a localized AI system. Weve researched everybody thats in the museum and well be putting everything that we know, everything we found, into the system, Moon said. We chase rabbits till they can not be chased anymore just to try to make sure that everything that that were telling is factual.

Jamie Caggiano, Assistant City Administrator and Gaffney Fire Chief, is also overseeing the project. He explained that this experience will bring economic revenue to the city.

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About three years ago, we did a study through Clemsons tourism and economic departments, and they looked at the impact of what the facility would have on Gaffney and Cherokee County, Caggiano said. The number of people that come to this county to visit the Battle of Cowpens [and] the Battle of Kings Mountain, and how that would impact with this facility being here and in the impact was very substantial.

According to Caggiano, the experience will be split into four galleries.

The construction crew is mainly concentrating right now on the first floor, and thats kind of where the entrance will be. And then, the restrooms in the lobby and then, two galleries on the first floor and then two galleries on the second floor, Caggiano said.

They expect the project to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, in line with the 250th anniversary of signing of the Declaration of Independence.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  First-term Councilwoman Caroline Parker announced Wednesday that she will not seek reelection to Charleston City Council this fall.

Parker, who was elected in 2021, called her tenure representing the James Island area one of the greatest honors of [her] life in an Aug. 13 statement.

When I ran for office, it was because I cared deeply about the place where my husband and I are raising our children, she continued. I wanted to be a voice for my neighbors and ensure our city was an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

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Parker cited family priorities as a guiding factor in her decision.

My children are young, and these years are precious, she said. They have been patient during the past four years, as I have gone from meeting to meeting and taken phone call after phone call. They need and deserve my full attention right now.

Her exit sets up an open race for the District 12 seat, which covers the portions of the island within city limits.

Two people  Deanna Miller and Leslie Skardon  have filed to run, according to the South Carolina Election Commissions database.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
The Brief

Carrollton police shot an armed narcotics suspect who they say pointed a gun at them during a foot chase.

The incident began with a traffic stop and escalated when Keith Kemp allegedly pulled out a handgun and threatened to harm himself. Officers chased him after he took off running.

Kemp is now in critical condition at the hospital and is facing multiple charges.

CARROLLTON, Texas - Carrollton police officers shot an armed narcotics suspect who allegedly pointed a gun at them after threatening to shoot himself.

What we know

The officer-involved shooting happened around 10 p.m. on Tuesday.

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Carrollton police officers stopped a driver, identified as Keith Kemp, in the 2700 block of E. Belt Line Road for a traffic violation.

During the stop, the officers began to suspect Kemp was involved in drug activity. They opened a narcotics investigation.

At some point during the investigation, police said Kemp pulled out a handgun and threatened to shoot himself. He got out of his vehicle and began to walk away with the gun pointed at his head.

Police said Kemp took off running. The officers chased him into nearby Farmers Branch.

One officer fired several shots at Kemp after police said he turned and pointed his gun at the pursuing officers.

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Kemp was taken to the hospital in critical condition. He remains in an intensive care unit.

Hes now facing charges for the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and aggravated assault on a peace officer.

What we don't know

Carrollton police did not identify the officer who fired shots at Kemp.

Police also havent said if they found any narcotics or if they have any history of dealing with Kemp.

Its not clear if hes expected to survive his injuries.

The Source

The information in this story comes from the Carrollton Police Department.
Mexico has handed over more than two dozen high-ranking cartel leaders to the United States in a deal made with the Trump administration.

Authorities extradited 26 prisoners to the U.S. who were wanted for ties to drug trafficking groups, the Mexican attorney generals office and security ministry said in a joint statement on Tuesday. The transfer comes as part of an agreement from the U.S. Justice Department that prosecutors would not pursue the death penalty for any of the individuals.

The group of prisoners includes Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, a leader of Los Cuinis, a group with close ties to the Jalisco New Generation cartel, or CJNG. Roberto Salazar, accused of involvement in the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy, was also included in the extradition.

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Earlier this year, The Dallas Express reported that 17 family members of a notorious Sinaloa Cartel were sent to the United States as part of a deal between a son of the cartels former head and the U.S. Department of Justice. The move followed negotiations between U.S. authorities and Guzman Lopez, also known as the Mouse, a son of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, the Sinaloa Cartel founder who was captured by Mexican forces in Culiacan, Sinaloa, in January 2023.

Today is the latest example of the Trump administrations historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations, Attorney General Pam Bondi said to Fox News Digital about the most recent extradition.

These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores  under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to President Sheinbaum and the Mexican government for their collaboration in this matter.

The latest transfer of prisoners comes just ahead of the 25% tariffs that were set to be applied to imports from Mexico. The sitting Mexican president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has shown a greater willingness than her predecessor to cooperate with the United States on cracking down on Mexicos rampant drug cartels. However, so far, she has opposed allowing the U.S. military to assist within Mexicos borders.
MARSHALL, Texas (KETK)  A Carthage man was sentenced to 12 years in prison on Tuesday after pleading guilty to a manslaughter charge in the case of a 2023 shooting that left one man dead in Marshall.

Henderson County woman sentenced to 15 years for meth offenses

Mugshot of Johnathan Antione Reeves, courtesy of Harrison County Jail

On March 16, 2023, officials with the Marshall Police Department arrived at the 2100 block of Randolph Street, where they found Adrian Rashad Ward with a gunshot wound in his abdomen. Ward was taken to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

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Johnathan Antione Reeves was arrested the same day and placed into the Harrison County Jail. Reeves was originally booked on an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge, which was later changed to murder.

18-year-old wanted by Texarkana PD for organized crime, assault with deadly weapon

According to Harrison County Judicial Records, Reeves pleaded guilty in the 71st District Court after his indictment was changed to manslaughter. Reeves was sentenced to 12 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.
(The Center Square)  The Democratic field for the California gubernatorial race has become a little less crowded.

California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis has dropped out of the 2026 race to succeed Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is termed-out.

Kounalakis announced recently she decided instead to run against state Sen. Anna Caballero, a fellow Democrat, for state treasurer.

"This decision was not made lightly," Kounalakis said in a news release that she posted on X. She said she believes she will make the greatest impact by focusing on California's financial future as treasurer. She cited her experience as a former U.S. ambassador, a former housing developer and the first woman to serve as California's lieutenant governor.

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In a news release emailed Tuesday to The Center Square, Caballero challenged Kounalakis to a series of debates in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento, the Central Valley and on the Central Coast. Caballero cited her experience as the current chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the former mayor of Salinas in Monterey County. She also served as secretary of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency under Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown and was an Assembly member.

Kounalakis decision to drop out of the governors race leaves seven Democratic candidates: U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (who represented Orange County in Congress), former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former California State Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former state Controller Betty Yee, former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Diamond Resorts International founder Stephen J. Cloobeck.

The Republicans running for governor are Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton.

Under Californias election laws, the two candidates with the greatest number of votes in the 2026 primary, regardless of party affiliation, will face off in the general election.

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A new Emerson College poll shows Porter leading the race with 18% of the support. Hilton is in second place at 12%. Before she dropped out of the governor's race, Kounalakis tied with Becerra for sixth place in the poll with 3%.

According to the poll, 38% of voters are undecided.

As previously reported by The Center Square, former Vice President Kamala Harris decided against running for governor. The Democrat, who lost to Republican candidate Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race, has not announced whether she will run for president in 2028. She did say, though, that she plans to announce details about her plans in the months ahead.

Harris' decision not to run has led to speculation that developer Rick Caruso, who lost to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in the 2022 mayoral race, could enter the gubernatorial race. In fact, the Emerson College poll showed 4% of voters already supporting Caruso, a Democrat and billionaire.

Newsom is widely expected by Democrats and Republicans to run for president, but hasn't announced his plans. The Emerson College poll reported 23% of California Democratic primary voters say they would back Newsom for president.
The investigation into the killing of a 15-year-old girl was closed after Phoenix police said the suspect was found dead on Aug. 8.

The 15-year-old, Kyelonna Smiley, was found with an apparent gunshot wound near the area of 77th Avenue and Encanto Boulevard on Aug. 4, according to police. After investigating, a potential suspect, identified as Nohe Morelia, was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound before officials could locate him.

Morelia, 67, was found after officers responded to a call regarding a dead body by a business near 24th and Van Buren streets, police said.

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Since his death, an investigation concluded that Morelia killed Smiley, according to police. No other suspects were believed to be involved, and a motive has not been found.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Murder case closed after suspect found dead in Phoenix
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes)  Our beloved Katy Hammer went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 1, 2025.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend who loved helping others.

Find obituaries from your high school

Katy is survived by her loving husband, Jack Hammer of Youngstown; her son, Michael (Terri) Hammer of Connecticut; her daughter, Amy Hammer of Kansas; her three grandchildren of Connecticut and dearest little angel, Tammy Sulek of Youngstown.

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A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Church Hill United Methodist Church, 189 Churchill-Hubbard Road, Youngstown, OH 44505, with Pastor Sam Mohn officiating.

Arrangements are being handled by the Borowski Funeral Services & Oak Meadow Cremation Services.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Catherine, please visit our floral store.

A television tribute will air Thursday, August 14 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.
Catholic leaders in Michigan and U.S. House Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, met Tuesday, Aug. 12, for one hour with leaders of the Detroit field office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), pressing them to improve how they treat immigrants.

"It was an open discussion where we expressed continued concern for how ICE at times prioritizes its arrests and the fear that has been created in communities in the last few months, which was not there before," the Rev. David Buersmeyer  a Catholic priest who is the chaplain for Strangers No Longer, a Catholic group in metro Detroit that advocates for immigrants  told the Free Press.

Judith Brooks and Rev. David Buersmeyer of Strangers No Longer, a Catholic group in metro Detroit that advocates for immigrants, stand outside the ICE Detroit office on July 14, 2025, during a rally in support of immigrant rights. They tried to hand deliver a letter to ICE, but were rebuffed by a security guard. Buersmeyer and others with Strangers No Longer later met with Detroit ICE leaders on Aug. 12, 2025, after U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, facilitated the meeting.

The meeting was held at the headquarters of ICE Detroit and organized by Thanedar, who was at the discussion along with some of his staffers, three other members of Strangers No Longer that included two Catholic sisters, and several ICE Detroit leaders, including Kevin Raycraft, the acting field office director for ICE Detroit.

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Last month on July 14, Buersmeyer was part of a group of Catholics and others that walked from Most Holy Trinity Church in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit to the ICE Detroit office a few blocks away. Buersmeyer tried to hand deliver a letter to ICE during that July rally requesting a meeting, but was rebuffed by a security guard. He then contacted Thanedar, who set up the Aug. 12 meeting. The day before the meeting, Thanedar wrote a letter to Raycraft that expressed "deep concern regarding recent reports of inhumane treatment of migrants detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within the country, and the Detroit office."

In the letter, Thanedar said "several Venezuelan migrants were detained by ICE moments after their asylum hearings were dismissed" recently at the Detroit immigration court inside the Patrick V. McNamara Federal Building in Detroit. There have been increasing reports this year of immigrants who are detained after court appearances.

"Eyewitnesses reported that individuals were handcuffed in the waiting room outside the courtroom, with no warning and minimal explanation, and swiftly placed into expedited removal proceedings," Thanedar said. "These courthouse arrests raise serious concerns about due process, transparency, and the misuse of enforcement authority in a space meant to uphold justice."

Thanedar called for "basic human decency or fair treatment of migrants within Detroit."

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On Friday, Aug. 8, Thanedar introduced a bill, the Ending Qualified Immunity for ICE Agents Act, saying in a statement it would help ensure "that individuals can pursue legal action against agents who violate constitutional rights."

Thanedar said: "Weve seen ICE detain Americans with impunity and commit gross civil rights violations. Qualified Immunity protects them from being held accountable. No more. No one should be above the law."

More: ICE arrests 16 Hmong, Laotian refugees in Michigan. Family, legislators ask for release.

During Tuesday's meeting, participants expressed their concerns, Thanedar said.

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"We were able to have a long conversation," the representative told the Free Press. "We asked questions, we expressed our concerns about the issues, and we demanded some answers, and we talked about a few specific cases." It was "a meaningful dialog with the ICE field officers" and Strangers No Longer, he said.

U.S. Rep Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, walks with members of a Catholic group that advocates for immigrants, Strangers No Longer, on Aug. 12, 2025, from Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church to the Detroit ICE office on Michigan Ave for a meeting with ICE Detroit leaders to discuss immigration enforcement.

Buersmeyer said one of their concerns is "the practice at times of masked agents where people cannot check their official ID against the face of the person who is using that ID."

The ICE leaders at the meeting "responded by saying ICE agents always wear identifiable badges or gear and questioned whether we were certain some of the arrests we were concerned about were necessarily ICE" and maybe were with Border Patrol, Buersmeyer said. "We assured them that at least some of them were ICE."

Buersmeyer said the ICE officials "said they would send us contact information for how to track where immigrants who are detained have been sent."

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After the July rally, Raycraft wrote a letter to the Detroit News published July 22 that criticized Strangers No Longer, alleging the Catholic group "did not follow appropriate channels to request a meeting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in Detroit. Instead, the group coordinated an event for public spectacle, prioritizing media attention over meaningful dialogue." Strangers No Longer denies the claims, saying they were requesting a dialogue.

Buersmeyer thanked Thanedar for setting up the meeting, saying: "For us this closes the circle. We asked for a meeting. They met with us in a respectful way. We had a chance to express continuing concerns. They had a chance to respond."

Officers guard the door at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement offices in Detroit as a group of Catholics, including Fr. David Buersmeyer, at right, participated in a solemn protest as he speaks to the media after being declined entry on Monday, July 14, 2025 to deliver a letter to the Detroit ICE Regional Field Office Director Kevin Raycraft, asking for individuals to be treated with dignity. Hundreds prayed during the protest for family and community members who have recently been detained or deported by ICE.

But, he added: "We were not persuaded that their prioritizing or methods are the best or only way to do their work. We agreed to keep the door open for future meetings, if needed."

ICE did not respond to a request for comment on Tuesday's meeting.

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The other Catholic activists at the meeting were Sister Valerie Knoche, with Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Monroe and a pastoral assistant at St. Clement Catholic Church in Romeo; Sister Nina Rodriguez, with Sisters of St. Joseph in Kalamazoo and a member of Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, and Victoria Kovari, of Gesu Church, a Jesuit parish in Detroit.

During the meeting, the group read from a page and a half of cases of immigrants detained this year, including a father suffering from leukemia in metro Detroit with three children who was arrested five days ago, Kovari said.

"The wife hasn't been able to get his medication that is helping keep him alive," Kovari said. Raycraft said he would look into the case, she said.

Kovari said they also challenged Raycraft on the issue of agents wearing face masks, citing the case on June 30 of a Honduras immigrant arrested by ICE in Detroit that drew protesters.

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"Why is ICE different?" Kovari said they asked the officials. "When local police and state police and DEA and ATF (conduct operations) they don't wear masks, they all have identification and badge numbers. ... Why does ICE think they don't have to wear masks and not have identifiable markers?"

According to Kovari, Raycraft replied that he was not aware of any such cases. When Kovari mentioned the arrest of the Honduras immigrant in Detroit, Raycraft "claimed it was just sort of manipulated by the media."

Those comments "were hard to take," Kovari said. "He wouldn't just own up to the fact that his agents do wear masks when they do enforcement action."

Raycraft also said at the meeting that ICE Detroit has no quota for arrests and deportations, Kovari said. The group said the Trump administration's actions and public comments indicate otherwise.

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Also on Aug. 12, the ACLU of Michigan announced it filed a federal lawsuit this week asking that Juan Manuel Lopez-Campos, of Detroit, a father of five U.S. citizens detained by ICE after a stop on June 25 for an alleged traffic violation, be given a bond hearing.

"Lopez-Campos has lived in the U.S. for 26 years, has many ties to his community and church, and has no criminal record," ACLU Michigan said in a statement. The ACLU said his case is part of a pattern this year of detained immigrants being "refused the opportunity to be released on bond while" their cases are decided.

"Thousands of people like him with strong ties to their families and the communities they contribute to remain wrongfully locked up," the civil rights group said.

Contact Niraj Warikoo: nwarikoo@freepress.com, X @nwarikoo or Facebook @nwarikoo

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Catholic activists, Rep. Shri Thanedar meet with Detroit ICE leaders
(LEADVILLE, Colo.)  Two minors are in custody after an apparent shooting in Leadville that injured a boy earlier this week.

Around 12 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 11, the Lake County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) responded to reports of a shooting at 19773 Highway 24 in Leadville. When deputies arrived, a boy told them that he was confronted by two other minors and was shot once in the arm.

The victim was taken to a hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released.

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A short time later, Lake County Sheriffs deputies arrested two minors without incident. According to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the two boys are from the Leadville/Lake County area and are facing charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder.

CBI has been requested to take the lead on the following investigation, with LCSO assisting.

There is no ongoing threat to the community. Due to the involvement of juveniles and the active nature of the investigation, no additional information will be released at this time, CBI said in an official release.

LCSO and the CBI request that anyone with information about this incident call the Lake County Emergency Communication Center at (719) 486-1249.

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DENVER (KDVR)  Investigators are looking into a shooting involving teenagers that occurred on Monday, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation reported in a press release on Wednesday afternoon.

On Monday, around noon, the Lake County Sheriffs Office responded to a report of a shooting that took place near 19773 Highway 24 in Leadville.

Power lines involved in small aircraft crash in Berthoud

The victim, a male juvenile, told deputies that he was confronted by two other juveniles who shot him once in the arm, CBI said.

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He sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was later released from the hospital.

Not long after the shooting occurred, deputies were able to find the suspects and arrest them, identifying them as two male juveniles from the Leadville, Lake County area.

They were taken into custody without incident.

The two were charged with attempted first-degree murder.

CBI is taking the lead in the investigation, while the Lake County Sheriffs Office offers assistance.

No new information will be released due to the age of the suspects, the lack of threat to the community and the active nature of the investigation, CBI said.

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Investigators ask that anyone who may have information on the shooting call the Lake County Emergency Communication Center at 719-486-1249.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents marched the housekeeper down the gangplank of the Victory I cruise ship in the Port of Detroit on the morning of July 11, she didn't know what was wrong, but she was confident it would get sorted out.

The crew member, originally from South America, had worked for 20 years on smaller cruise ships plying the Great Lakes. She split her time between her home country, where her family still lives, and the Great Lakes region, where she had a job she loved and a partner. She says that over the years, her respect for America and its dedication to the rule of law had grown.

It wasn't until a CBP agent told her to put her hands behind her back and she felt the cuffs click around her wrists that a horrible feeling washed over her, and she realized she may have been mistaken about something very, very important.

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"When I was handcuffed, all that respect that had been building up for 20 years disappeared," says the former crew member, who requested anonymity.

Why the womanwhom Reason is calling "Maria" to protect her privacywas being arrested would shock her even more when she eventually found out.

Maria is one of more than an estimated 100 cruise ship crew members who have been summarily deported and had their work visas revoked in recent months based on unsubstantiated allegations by CBP agents of possessing or viewing child pornography.

According to interviews, advocacy groups, and other news reports, CBP agents are boarding cruise ships with a list of targets and seizing their cell phones, laptops, and electronics. The crew members are handcuffed and detained. CBP agents then accuse them of having viewed or posted child pornography and pressure them to sign an admission, which includes a voluntary revocation of their C1/D visa (a joint crewmember and transit visa). The detainees are not shown the evidence against them or allowed legal representation.

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The removalswhich have occurred at ports in the Great Lakes region, Norfolk, Virginia, and Floridahave attracted limited outside attention, but they have caused fear and confusion in the cruise ship industry, which heavily relies on international crews.

One of the countries that supplies the most sailors to the cruise industry is the Philippines. It's unknown how many seafarers have been deported off cruise ships in recent months, but two Filipino advocacy groups, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), say more than 100 Filipino sailors have been arrested, deported, and had their work visas revoked since June.

While CBP has arrested and charged several cruise ship employees for child pornography in targeted operations earlier this year and last year, advocates say these cases in recent months have been different.

"There's no evidence. There's no charges being filed. There's no convictions," says PWC executive director Aquilina Soriano Versoza. "And then they're just having their visas revoked."

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NaFFAA National President Ryan Namata said in a press release that the organization is "concerned by recent reports of Filipino seafarers being deported without clear explanation."

"While we recognize the importance of upholding immigration laws, it is equally important to ensure that every individual is treated with dignity and in accordance with due process," Namata continued.

The NaFAA and PWC have demanded clarification and transparency from federal authorities, and the office of Rep. Bobby Scott (DVa.) also launched an investigation. However, the CBP has refused to release any more details.

"CBP is involved in an ongoing operation," a CBP spokesperson said in response to a request for comment. "Due to the nature of this operation, we are unable to provide further details at this time."

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A summary arrest, detention, and deportation under an accusation of possessing or viewing child pornography carries significant due process concerns, and also a devastating financial and reputational impact. A person whose C1/D crewmember visa is revoked cannot reapply for another one for 10 years.

"For these people who have worked as crew, and see that as their livelihood and their way of supporting their families, that's the kiss of death in that profession," says one individual in the cruise industry.

For Maria, being a room attendant on a cruise ship was a perfect job. "I love that job," she says. "My passion is to help others, to serve." She says she turned down opportunities to move to a supervisor position because she liked it so much.

On the morning of July 11, she says she was bringing two carafes to a guest room when she was approached by CBP officers. Once they confirmed her identity, the officers took her phone and other electronics and put them in plastic evidence bags.

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After she was marched off the ship and handcuffed, Maria was taken to a temporary detention area with seven other Victory I crew members, all of the rest of them Filipino. She says none of them had been told why they had been arrested.

Then, one by one, they were called into a room where a CBP officer interrogated them. Maria says the officer accused her of posting a photo on her Facebook page in 2018 of an 11-year-old boy with his penis exposed.

"How come I would post something like that when I have two daughters?" Maria says she asked the CBP agent.

And if she had posted such a photo, she wondered, why had she been repeatedly allowed in and out of the country in the years since? She also says she demanded to see the post in question, but the officer refused.

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"He said, 'You don't have rights, and I don't need to explain it to you,'" Maria recalls.

Soriano Versoza says the details are "very consistent" across the cases of Filipino sailors that the PWC has talked to.

"They're all individually being interrogated, and they're being accused of having watched or possessed child pornography. They will open up their phones, and CBP will go through all of their phones and not find anything. [CBP] might tell them, 'Oh, well we have evidence here that back in 2008 there was something,'" she says.

That evidence is never shown to the accused, but CBP officers then attempt to get detainees to sign admissions and other documents.

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The Business Mirror, a news outlet in the Philippines, reported in July on the removal and deportation of Filipino seafarers from the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship at the Port of Norfolk, Virginia.

Marcelo Morales, one of those former crew members, told the Business Mirror that CBP agents boarded the Sunshine on May 30.

"They confiscated my cellphone and checked everything thoroughly," Morales said. "After the official search, they asked if I had viewed child pornography. I denied the accusation, and after they found nothing, I was cleared and allowed to return to the vesselno charges, no citation, not even a warning."

But CBP officers boarded the ship again in Norfolk on June 28, accused Morales of watching child sexual abuse material, and placed him under arrest.

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"No new evidence was shown. They didn't search my phone againthey just placed it in a small transparent envelope and took me," he said.

Morales was one of nine crew members arrested, held in detention, and then put on a flight back to Manila. The Business Mirror reported that 18 Filipino seafarers were deported from the Carnival Sunshine between February and the end of July.

"We were treated like criminals. We were not fed, we had no water. We are crying. We want justice for what was done to us," Morales said.

Back in detention at the Port of Detroit, Maria refused to sign anything. She was returned to the main holding area, where she says agents took her fingerprints and collected a mouth swab from her, likely for a DNA sample.

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In the middle of the night, she says the seven other Filipino crew members who'd been detained with her were handcuffed and driven to the airport to be flown out of the country.

"I cry. I cry," Maria says. "My colleagues tell me, 'Momma, be strong. We love you.' When I saw them be moved out of the detention place, it was the hardest thing. Just like I was innocent, they were innocent. We came with valid visas, medical, everything valid."

The next morning, Maria was driven to the Detroit airport and marched in handcuffs through a terminal of passengers to a flight back to her home country.

"When I was going to this security place with the handcuffs and chain on my belly, it was the worst thing," Maria says.

Maria and the other deported seafarers represented more than 10 percent of the Victory I's overall crew. It seems statistically unlikely that so many of the Victory I's crew, all of whom were vetted by their respective governments and the U.S. government before being issued crewmember visas, were consumers of child pornography.

In addition to the 18 crew members of the Carnival Sunshine, the PWC and NaFFAA say as many as 80 Filipino crewmembers from Carnival's Mardi Gras and Vista cruise liners were deported in April and May.

In the Great Lakes, media outlets reported that 13 crew members were removed and deported from the Victory I and Victory II in July, along with 16 crew members from the Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, and an unknown number from Pearl Seas Cruises.

Soriano Versoza notes that, even though international crew members don't live in the U.S.and usually remain aboard the ship in U.S. portstheir removals will still count toward CBP's overall number of deportations.

"We really think that this is a part of the current administration trying to boost up its numbers of deportations as it's already claimed that it's trying to reach these 3,000-a-day quotas," she says.

While it may be an easy way to juice the agency's deportation numbers, the removals and visa revocations are destroying the livelihoods of former crew members.

Soriano Versoza says that once seafarers arrive back in the Philippines, they're finding out that, in addition to being banned from desirable U.S. cruise routes, they're blacklisted altogether by the agencies that hire sailors for major cruise companies.

"There are a few where they're being placed, having some options of just Asia routes," Soriano Versoza says. "But overwhelmingly, the workers that we've been talking to, the majority of the cruise ships like Royal Caribbean and Carnival are just not rehiring them at all."

To add insult to injury, Maria says that when she received her final paycheck, it was docked $450 for the cost of her repatriation flight.

"I always have a big respect for the U.S., but I'm hurt," she says. "I'm hurt from the way things are going on, for innocent people, working, giving their life, apart from their family."

Maria says she's been overwhelmed with how to begin rebuilding her life with such an awful accusation hanging over her head.

"I don't sit with my kids and explain, because I can't look in their faces, and I feel ashamed," she says. "Mentally, I feel destroyed. I don't want to do nothing. I passed into the worst time in my life."

She credits her faith in God for giving her the strength to carry on. "I'm holding onto Him," she says. "That's why I'm still alive."

Ricci Levy, the president and CEO of the Woodhull Freedom Foundation, a group that advocates for sexual freedom, says that what's happening to Maria and other crew members is "a fundamental violation of due process and human rights."

"They are being accused of one of the most stigmatizing crimes imaginable without being shown evidence, given legal counsel, or afforded a fair hearing," Levy says. "These summary deportations and visa revocations not only destroy livelihoodsthey weaponize accusation as punishment."

Victory Cruise Lines did not respond to a request for comment. However, in a statement to other media outlets reporting on the raids, John Waggoner, the founder and chairman of Victory, said: "We are actively cooperating with federal authorities to clarify the circumstances, and my priority is always our crew and the experience for our guests. We wish to thank federal, state and local representatives across the Great Lakes for their prompt and continued attention to this matter."

Carnival, Viking, and Celebrity cruise lines did not respond to requests for comment.

In a press release, Scott said his office is investigating. "Our nation was founded on the fundamental principles of due process," Scott said. "Under our Constitution, everyone is entitled to due process regardless of citizenship or immigration status."

The removals have also caught the attention of members of Congress in the Great Lakes.

"President Trump campaigned on protecting people and removing illegal immigrants who are 'the worst of the worst.'" Rep. Shri Thanedar (DMich.) said. "Instead, we see incidents like the one at the Port of Detroit, where immigrants who are here to work and make a better life for themselves are detained and deported with no due process."

The post CBP Is Deporting Cruise Ship Crew Over Child Pornography Allegations Without Evidence appeared first on Reason.com.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations helicopter crew conducted rescues this past weekend in both the Franklin and Organ mountains.

On Saturday, Aug. 9, CBP/AMO, El Paso Air Branch received a call from El Paso Fire Departments Combined Search and Rescue Team (ComSAR) for a helicopter hoist rescue of a severely dehydrated hiker in the Franklin Mountains nearby, CBP said.

Hiker suffering from heat exhaustion rescued from Franklin Mountains

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A CBP UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with a hoist lift was deployed at 3 p.m. Saturday with a rescue specialist aboard.

The helicopter flew to the rescue site at Mundys Gap in the Franklin Mountains, hovered approximately 50 foot and lowered a rescue specialist down to where the dehydrated hiker and two ComSAR team members were treating the patient.

All four were hoisted up into the helicopter and transported to a nearby road where an ambulance was waiting to take the hiker to a local hospital for treatment.

El Paso Fire said the hiker suffered minor injuries.

BACK-TO-BACK SAR EXCLUSIVE: Watch as El Paso Air Branch UH-60 crew rescues a dehydrated hiker in the Franklin Mountains Saturday. The crew hoisted the hiker and transported him to a nearby road where an ambulance was waiting to transport for further care. #SavingLives #AMO #UH60 pic.twitter.com/BB7w83dN5t  CBP AMO (@CBPAMO) August 12, 2025

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After that first rescue, the UH-60 Black Hawk responded to another call for assistance from New Mexico State Police regarding a hiker suffering from chest pains and numb fingers in the Organ Mountains near Las Cruces.

En route, the helicopter crew was able to pick up a local fire department emergency medical technician to help with the treatment of the patient.

After searching for approximately 30 minutes, the hiker was located at 4:45 p.m. in a mountain valley at approximately 8,300 foot above sea level. The rescue specialist was hoisted down approximately 130 feet to secure the patient.

Both the rescue specialist and patient were hoisted into the aircraft. After evaluation by the EMT, the decision was made to land the aircraft on a road to transfer the patient to an ambulance for transport to a local hospital.

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Our CBP AMO agents regularly train and prepare for life-saving missions like these with our local police and fire department search-and-rescue teams. It is because of this coordination we can successfully conduct these missions in the harsh, austere mountains and desert of West Texas and New Mexico, El Paso Air Branch Director Efren Gonzalez said. The investment in equipment, training and coordination paid off with these successful rescues.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Chenango County Historical Society and the Chenango County Historians Office are working together on An America250 Conversation. The two organizations are seeking continued input from the people of Chenango County on how local communities will participate in America250, a national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, according to a CCHS news release.

The community dialogue, the third in a multi-year series, will take place 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 9 at the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus at 20 Conkey Ave. The goals for the conversation are to present an overview of the official America250 themes, to seek public support for the commemoration and to encourage the participation of libraries, arts organizations, historical societies and other community organizations, the release stated.

The commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution gives us the opportunity to re-examine the seminal events that took place between 1774 and 1783, and how those events have shaped our history and aspirations as a people, said Henry Drexler, county historian.

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Were looking forward to this third collaborative conversation, said Jessica Moquin, CCHS executive director. As local planning continues for marking this national milestone, we welcome everyone to join us. The commemoration is anticipated to last through 2033, and we expect a range of programs will be hosted throughout Chenango County.

Registration is encouraged by emailing info@chenangohistorical.org.
The Brief

Seattle's Public Safety Committee approved bills to expand CCTV surveillance to more city areas.

Critics, including the ACLU, argue the expansion infringes on privacy and doesn't effectively reduce crime.

The City Council will hold a final vote on the surveillance expansion bills in September.

SEATTLE - Seattle City Council's Public Safety Committee passed a pair of bills on Tuesday that propose installing more CCTV surveillance across Seattle.

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This is an expansion of a technology pilot program that is active in parts of the Chinatown-International District, Aurora Avenue and Third Avenue in downtown Seattle.

Big picture view

The city believes closed-circuit television (CCTV) with the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) has been successful, saying it has played a role in 600 investigations and supported more than 90 criminal investigations in less than 60 days.

CB121052 and CB121053 would expand CCTV into parts of Capitol Hill, the Stadium District and the Garfield-Nova High School area, as well as give Seattle police the ability to watch the Seattle Department of Transportation traffic monitoring cameras from RTCC.

What they're saying

Critics argue CCTV would not cut down on crime but will infringe on civil liberties.

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"The ACLU of Washington is concerned by the proposal to expand CCTV across Seattle. Research shows that the use of CCTV cameras does not reduce violent crime or make our communities safer. Instead, this surveillance technology violates people's privacy and civil liberties, harms the communities its deployed in, and wastes police resources.

"Instead of using public funds on strategies that don't work, the City should invest in evidence-based solutions that do reduce crime, such as community-based gun violence prevention programs and neighborhood improvement projects."

- Tee Sannon, ACLU of Washington Technology Policy Program Director

After Amarr Murphy-Paine, 17-year-old student from Garfield High School, was murdered more than a year ago in one of the proposed expansion areas, his father weighed in about the CCTV expansion proposal:

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"Until video footage of crimes are real deterrents, more cameras mean more eyes desensitized to violence. Having footage that doesnt lead to consequences is just simple surveillance. As a parent of a victim of a crime caught on cameras with still no arrests, those cameras failed to keep Amarr safe or the community since theres a killer still out there a whole year later.

"We dont need more cameras we need more adults in the community with true intentions to change the environment. To me this is a cop out to doing the real frontline work this city needs. These kids need intentionality and trust. Not another eye from the distance making decisions remotely."

- Arron Murphy-Paine

The other side

Seattle City Council said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would not have access to the RTCC footage.

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"It is solely with the detectives and the civilian analysts with the RTCC, and each search is logged and is audited by the OIG," said Councilmember Bob Kettle.

What's next

The Seattle City Council is set to have a final vote on the bills in September.

The Source

Information in this story came from the Seattle City Council, the ACLU of Washington, Arron Murphy-Paine and FOX 13 Seattle reporting.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director, Susan Monarez, warned staffers about the dangers of misinformation during an agencywide meeting, the first since last weeks shooting at the CDCs headquarters in Atlanta, which left one police officer dead, according to a transcript of her remarks obtained by NBC News.

Monarez conducted Tuesdays staff meeting virtually, joined by Jim ONeill, the deputy secretary of health and human services, and Jeff Williams, director of the CDCs Office of Safety, Security and Asset Management, in an effort to reassure the people who work at the Atlanta campus about their safety. She said the agency has taken steps to bolster security and expand mental health sources for employees.

Public health should never be under attack, Monarez said, echoing an earlier social media post from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

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We know that misinformation can be dangerous, Monarez told staffers. Not only to health, but to those that trust us and those we want to trust. We need to rebuild the trust together.

Monarez said the agency can rebuild that trust with rational, evidence-based discourse communicated with compassion and understanding.

The suspect, Patrick White, 30, fired close to 200 rounds that struck six buildings at the CDCs campus, law enforcement officials said at a separate news conference Tuesday. Five firearms, including rifles and a shotgun, were recovered at the scene.

On Tuesdays call, Williams, the head of CDCs security, said the campus buildings sustained excessive damage, adding that it will take time for cleanup and repairs.

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Nearly 100 children at the childcare center located within CDCs campus were reunited with their parents Friday night after the shooting.

Because CDC employees have been working remotely since the attack, Monarez expressed regret that they couldnt meet in person. She said that as staffers return to campus in the coming weeks, it will be different and unsettling, in many ways, for some time to come.

White's motive remains under investigation, although officials said they found documents at his home in Kennesaw, Georgia, expressing his discontent with the Covid vaccines.

One police officer, David Rose, was killed while responding to the gunfire.

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In the wake of the attack on the CDC, staffers have been voicing frustration over Kennedys past vaccine comments, which they said has fueled growing hostility toward public health officials.

Dr. Peter Marks, the FDAs former top vaccine official, said the job of public health officials is difficult.

Theres a lot of nuance to public health communication, he said. Sometimes its black and white, but usually, theres a fair amount of complexity.

Asked whether Kennedy planned to address vaccine misinformation, Andrew Nixon, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the CDC, said Monarez and CDC leadership remain focused on supporting staff during an extraordinarily difficult time as evidenced by their continued direct engagement.

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This is a time to stand in solidarity with our public health workforce and we hope the media will respect the moment rather than exploiting a tragedy and further exacerbating an already harrowing experience by the dedicated CDC staff, Nixon said in a statement.

Referring to Kennedy, Dr. Paul Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Pennsylvania, said: The irony is her boss is the biggest spreader of misinformation.

Offit, also vaccine adviser for the FDA, said the staff at CDC arent responsible for the misinformation.

These people, theyre hardworking public health folks, who care deeply about getting it right, he said.

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Joseph Kanter, the CEO of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, a group that represents state public health agencies, said in a statement Tuesday that in this time of heated rhetoric and polarization, we implore everyone to help dampen inflammatory slander undeservingly aimed at public health professionals.

On Monday, Kennedy visited CDCs headquarters, where security led him through campus, pointing out shattered windows across multiple buildings, HHS said in a statement.

Later, Kennedy met with the widow of the killed police officer.

The HHS statement also said the agency "continues to support CDC personnel and their families. Over the weekend, Kennedy sent an email to staff, saying the agency is standing together in the wake of the shooting.

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Kennedy has been active in opposing use of the Covid vaccines. He filed a citizens petition in 2021 requesting that the Food and Drug Administration revoke the authorization of the Covid vaccines. The same year, he described the Covid shot as the deadliest vaccine ever made.

He has also taken steps the limit use of the updated Covid vaccines for the fall, restricting its use to older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Last week, Kennedy terminated nearly two dozen contracts focused on developing mRNA vaccines  the same technology used to develop Pfizers and Modernas Covid shots.

Kennedy hasnt yet spoken publicly about vaccine misinformation that may have contributed to the shooting.

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During the Tuesday meeting, the head of CDC security tried to ease worries about returning to the agency's campus.

All indications are that this was an isolated event involving one individual, Williams said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The man accused of killing a police officer while shooting at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta on Friday had previously been reported to police for suicidal thoughts and launched the deadly attack with his fathers weapons to send a message against COVID-19 vaccines, authorities said Tuesday.

Patrick Joseph White, 30, is suspected of killing DeKalb County Police Department Officer David Rose, 33, shortly before 5 p.m., in an attack that saw him unload around 200 rounds into six CDC buildings. White's driver's license image was released publicly for the first time on Tuesday.

Rose, who previously served as a Marine in Afghanistan and joined the DeKalb County Police Department in September 2024, was responding to the scene and died from gunshot wounds.

Patrick Joseph White, 30, is suspected of killing DeKalb County Police Department Officer David Rose, 33, shortly before 5 p.m., in an attack that saw him fire 200 rounds into six CDC buildings.

Father Of Cdc Gunman Indicates Possible Motivation Behind Shooting

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Five firearms were recovered by law enforcement, mostly long guns, with more than 500 shell casings found at the scene, authorities said at a Tuesday press briefing.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Director Chris Hosey said law enforcement made contact with White about mental health warning signs.

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"The shooter had no known criminal history. Evidence in this investigation indicates that the shooter had recently verbalized thoughts of suicide, which even led to law enforcement being contacted several weeks prior to the incident," Hosey said.

He said investigators are getting with the law enforcement that made those contacts to find out the details, but did not provide further information. White died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Hosey said.

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White, who was from the Atlanta suburb of Kennesaw, had police called on him three different times about being suicidal in the past year, Fox Atlanta reported. In at least one of those calls, White's father told dispatchers that his son had gotten a gun from his fathers locker.

People leave flowers at a makeshift memorial Monday in honor of David Rose, the officer who was killed in the shooting at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta.

Shooter Named In Cdc Headquarters Attack That Left Georgia Police Officer Dead

In a September 2024 call, White told police his health had declined after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine and that his deteriorating condition had led to suicidal ideation. Officers said White stated he was in pain and had back surgery a decade ago. He claimed taking a gun from his fathers locker was "only a cry for help."

After that incident, White was taken to Kennestone Hospital but refused mental health treatment on subsequent calls, per the report. Two other calls took place in April and July of this year.

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Hosey said that for Fridays attack, White broke into his fathers safe to get the guns, noting they had been locked away.

"All indications in our investigation was that they were secure and that he forced his way into the safe that contained the weapons," said Hosey, adding that the suspect did not have a key to the gun safe: "He broke into it," Hosey said.

Hosey said that during a search of his residence, authorities found documents expressing anger towards the COVID-19 vaccine. He said there were no direct threats made in the writing, but it was described as personal manifesto to "make the public aware" of his views.

"A search warrant executed at the residence of the shooter revealed written documentation that expressed the shooter's discontent with the COVID-19 vaccinations," Hosey said.

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"I would describe it as more of a public awareness. There was no direct threat... but it was his making the public aware, in his words, of his discontent with the vaccines itself," Hosey said in response to a reporters follow-up question.

Hosey said the materials are being reviewed by certified behavioral profilers and shared with the FBI.

White had been stopped by CDC security guards before driving to a pharmacy across the street, where he opened fire from a sidewalk, authorities said. The bullets pierced "blast-resistant" windows across the campus, pinning employees down during the barrage. More than 500 shell casings have been recovered from the crime scene, the GBI said.

In the aftermath, officials at the CDC are assessing the security of the campus and making sure they notify officials of any new threats.

An investigator looks at the crime scene where a Georgia police officer was shot dead.

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. toured the CDC campus on Monday, accompanied by Deputy Secretary Jim ONeill and CDC Director Susan Monarez, according to a health agency statement. Kennedy also visited the DeKalb County Police Department, and later met privately with the slain officers wife.

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Kenedy recently announced that the CDC will no longer recommend COVID19 vaccinations for healthy children or pregnant individuals and canceled 22 mRNA vaccine development contracts totaling roughly $500 million because he said the data showed that those vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu.

Fox News' Landon Mion, Alexandra Koch, Sophia Compton, Louis Casiano and The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: CDC shooter had police contacts over suicide, used father's guns in attack: officials
Four days after a gunman riddled the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's main campus in Atlanta with bullets, CDC employees say they are still looking for steady leadership and clear communication. The agency's first all-hands meeting since the attack ran roughly 12 minutes, began late and was beset by technical problems, according to staff who tried to watch.

In Tuesday's all-hands, new CDC Director Susan Monarez described the shooting as "an attack in our community  and in many ways the very mission that we serve." She warned that "misinformation can be dangerous  we need to rebuild the trust together," urging "rational, evidence-based discourse  with compassion and understanding."

CDC security chief Jeff Williams told staff investigators view the incident as "a targeted attack on the CDC related to COVID-19." He said agency security "stopped" an intrusion that could have resulted in many more casualties, that nearly 100 children at the childcare center were reunited with parents that night, and that investigators recovered nearly 500 shell casings. More than 180 rounds struck six buildings, leaving extensive damage that will take time to repair.

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Monarez closed the meeting by honoring fallen DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose and pointing staff to a CDC Foundation fund for his family.

In April, more than 200 staff were fired from the CDC's Injury Prevention Center. In the aftermath of Friday's shooting, several CDC employees noted the grim irony: the team charged with studying how to prevent firearm violence had been dismissed.

Bullet holes can be seen in windows of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta on Aug. 10, 2025, following a shooting on Aug. 8. / Credit: Miguel Martinez/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP

One employee who spoke with CBS News on background, because they were not authorized to comment publicly, described Monarez's remarks as "heavily scripted." Another staffer said, "Monarez is new and doesn't know the agency, but she could have brought in career leaders  to show that she's working hand in hand with experienced CDC leaders. It feels like most of the CDC community is really trying to unify and support each other." A union message referred to the meeting, which lasted from 11:12 a.m. to 11:24 a.m., as "insultingly insufficient," and invited workers to a noon healing session.

"Dr. Monarez and CDC leadership remain focused on supporting staff during an extraordinarily difficult time as evidenced by their continued direct engagement," Andrew Nixon, a spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services, told CBS News. "Friday's shooting was a traumatic event for the agency, and leadership is working to provide continued updates along with resources for healing and recovery. There will be continued opportunities for staff engagement and dialogue in the days ahead."

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Several employees praised separate Saturday and Tuesday calls for the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, led by Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, describing them as "validating," with clear next steps and mental-health resources. Monarez joined the Saturday call and "was more natural and less scripted," a staffer said.

On Tuesday, Daskalakis told staff, "We've experienced a horrific and intentionally targeted attack  we're shocked, we're grieving, we're scared," and he urged teams to use the space to speak frankly. He emphasized that CDC would take "time and space before we come back," noting the investigation is "complex and ongoing."

The meeting centered on mental health and resources to support traumatized staffers. Daskalakis introduced Dr. David Schonfeld of the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement at the Children's Hospital Los Angeles, who walked through common post-crisis reactions.

"Most people try and hide their distress," he said, encouraging employees to seek support rather than suppress their feelings. Trying to do so, he added, "is not a superpower."

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Daskalakis noted reports that the suspect was angry about COVID-19 vaccines and influenced by conspiracy theories. "This is not our fault," he said. "Our work is love and what we experienced is hate."

Many of the CDC's centers are currently led by acting directors, after several center directors were reassigned to the Indian Health Service earlier this year.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited the CDC's campus on Monday, three days after the attack, while most staff were instructed by leadership to telework due to safety concerns and the ongoing assessments following the shootings. On the same day that he visited the CDC, Kennedy gave an interview to Scripps News in which he once again raised questions about vaccine safety, drawing sharp criticism from some CDC staff, who argued that anti-vaccine rhetoric, including from Kennedy, helped create the conditions for the attack.

HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon told CBS News, "This is a time to stand in solidarity with our public health workforce and we hope the media will respect the moment rather than exploiting a tragedy and further exacerbating an already harrowing experience by the dedicated CDC staff." White House spokesman Kush Desai said, "Violence has no place in any civil society, and the White House extends our heartfelt condolences to the family of Officer David Rose and the entire CDC team."

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President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Trump says he's placing D.C. police under federal control, deploying National Guard

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Las Vegas(KLAS)-Las Vegas Distillery is celebrating Rum Week with rum tours and a special The Spirit of Cane: A Rum Tour with Master Distiller Jonny VerPlank, offering a deep dive into the history of rum will be on Friday, August 15 at 2pm and 6pm ($60 a ticket and includes a bottle).

Las Vegas Distillery is raising a toast to American Sugar Cane and Craft Rum throughout the week with multiple activations. Take a tour, pick up a bottle, have a bite and sip, and enjoy a New Orleans-style Jazz Pianist on Saturday, August 16.

Visit Las Vegas Distillery at 7330 Eastgate Rd #100, Henderson, NV 89011.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
EBENSBURG, Pa.  The start of Central Cambria School Districts academic year will be delayed for four days due to ongoing mold mitigation efforts in Cambria Elementary School, located at 212 Schoolhouse Road, Ebensburg.

Classes are now scheduled to begin Aug. 25, as opposed to the original Aug. 21 date, as a result of a decision made by the school board Monday.

Central Cambria School District Superintendent Jason Moore said the company that has been cleaning up the school, Servpro, over-performed and underpromised, but the building still wont be ready for the originally planned first day.

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We just wanted more time for our teachers to prepare and get set up so they feel more comfortable, Moore said. A lot of them are going into rooms that, basically, theyre just going to be four walls, desks and chairs.

A decision was made to temporarily close all the districts schools, not just the elementary.

It comes down to safety, Moore said. A lot of times, the older siblings provide the child care to the younger siblings. Its more disruption to parents. What we heard, the feedback is if one building is closed and the other ones open, it just makes it more difficult for child care.

Moore said the total cost is not known yet, but he is hopeful everything is going to be covered by insurance.

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Aspergillus, a common mold, grew exponentially on surfaces such as desks and chairs after a July 16 power outage disrupted the schools ventilation system. Many porous materials and supplies needed to be thrown out.

Our elementary teachers carefully curate classrooms with libraries, manipulatives, reward systems, and so much to make it feel like home for our youngest students, Central Cambria Education Association Vice President and language arts teacher Dana Schweitzer said in a statement. Many of those items have been lost. Classrooms may not look like they did in past years on Meet The Teacher night.

Please offer us some grace as we dedicate the time, effort and energy it takes to recover and recreate all that is Cambria Elementary. We are working with administration to make sure we have the best possible conditions for students and our members to return.

School supplies have been donated by the community.

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We thank our community that has stepped up to support us, especially with school supplies, CCEA President and high school science teacher Will Wagner said.

The Stuff the Bus event organized by the PTO this past week is a lesson for the next generation and a reflection of the values we teach here at Central Cambria.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  After a Central Oregon man was cited for animal neglect in early August, authorities announced they rescued additional dogs in his possession at a second home  bringing the total number of dogs rescued in this case to 33.

The case began August 3, when Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported structure fire at a Tumalo property belonging to 38-year-old David De Persio.

There, authorities found 12 Australian Shepherds living in filthy conditions with extensive accumulations of animal waste inside the home.

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$44K Rolex stolen in Lake Oswego, handyman sentenced

De Persio was cited for second-degree animal neglect, which was elevated to a Class C felony under Oregon law because more than 11 animals were involved. The dogs were then voluntarily surrendered to the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

On Tuesday, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office said after the initial rescue, they followed a tip from concerned neighbors, leading them to find another 21 Toy Australian Shepherds  including 15 puppies  at De Persios second property next door.

Authorities said De Persio admitted to hiding the dogs at the second property and admitted to giving false information to deputies about the dogs location.

The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office). The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office). The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office). The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office). The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office). The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office rescued a total of 33 Toy Australian Shepards  including 15 puppies  at two Tumalo properties belonging to 38-year-old David De Persi, who was cited with animal neglect charges in August 2025 (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriffs Office).

While no new formal charges have been filed, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office is adding a charge of interfering with a peace officer for withholding information about the dogs.

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According to the Sheriffs Office, eight of the original dogs have since been adopted into new homes.

The Humane Society of Central Oregon is providing medical evaluations and treatment for the 21 additional dogs.

Anyone interested in adoption is asked to contact or visit the Humane Society in Bend.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
BELLEFONTE, Pa. (WTAJ)  Centre County is taking steps to be able to receive the next round of opiate settlement funding, and they are already planning on how to spend it.

According to Centre Countys Drug & Alcohol Administrator, Catherine Arbogast, they first started receiving settlement money 3-4 years ago. Since then, checks have been arriving in December on a regular basis. Now there is a new round with new totals.

What is currently proposed is $6.5 billion to be made in 16 payments over 15 years, Arbogast said.

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Centre officials frustrated with DOCs lack of updates on proposed prison closures

Commissioners say the goal is to use the funding to help combat the ongoing opioid crisis. According to the CDC, there were close to 50,000 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2024, though Commissioner Chair Mark Higgins does not think Centre County is contributing much to that total.

Fortunately, Centre County has not been impacted quite as badly as a lot of the other counties in Pennsylvania, Higgins said. But, still, every death is tragic.

In the past, Arbogast says the settlement money has been used for evidence-based program funding and keeping recovery centers open. They are already looking ahead to see where to use the funding next.

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Were looking ahead and identifying some needs at the correctional facility specifically, and medication assisted treatment program there and other services that will be needed at the correctional facility, Arbogast said.

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The board ultimately approved the settlement documents. They now expect to see that money starting Jan. 1, 2026, and ending in 2041.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
A Centre County man was arrested Tuesday night after an hourslong standoff with dozens of state police troopers and a SWAT team that was heavily armed.

Joshua L. Resides, 41, was charged with misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats and simple assault, as well as a summary count of harassment. District Judge Kelley Gillette-Walker denied bail and he is incarcerated at the Centre County Correctional Facility.

Area residents Amanda Schoen, 36, and Zachary Shawley, 35, told the Centre Daily Times they noticed a heavy police presence about 3 p.m. Tuesday near Sparrow Drive and Grove Street in Boggs Township.

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They said the SWAT team arrived by about 5:30 p.m. and appeared to be negotiating with a man, urging him to exit the home. Troopers also used a drone.

Its unclear when Resides surrendered to police or how. Schoen and Shawley said they heard two bangs by about 8:20 p.m., which they said came after police warned they would deploy tear gas. At about 9 p.m., the majority of police vehicles had left the area while some remained.

Shawley was complimentary of the troopers, saying he felt safe as the standoff unfolded. Schoen said she felt unsure because of the heavy police presence in a community that she said is typically quiet.

You never think it could happen in a small community neighborhood like this, Schoen said. It took me by surprise.

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Centre County dispatchers used a Facebook post at about 7:45 p.m. to urge people to avoid the area. On the scene, a Pennsylvania State Police trooper told the CDT there was no threat to the public and additional details would be released later Tuesday night.

In denying Resides bail, Gillette-Walker cited an alleged threat with a firearm.

A document containing details of what evidence police gathered was not immediately available. Bellefonte and Mount Nittany EMS were also on the scene. (UPDATE: The document was released Wednesday, and more information can be found here.)

Resides preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 20.
What's the difference between Harvard and UCLA when it comes to fighting President Trump's attacks?

It may come down to how much Gavin Newsom wants his shot at the White House.

Harvard appears to be on the brink of caving to the president's demands around claims of antisemitism and a host of issues that most would describe as policies for inclusiveness and diversity, but which Trump derides as "woke," whatever that means.

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The storied university may pay out a huge settlement  rumored to be about $500 million  to pacify an administration increasingly bent on domination of American institutions. Armed with that success, the president has targeted UCLA by freezing more than $500 million in federal grants and demanding a payout of about $1 billion.

We will not be complicit in this kind of attack on academic freedom on this extraordinary public institution, Newsom said recently. We are not like some of those other institutions that have followed a different path.

Let's hope that's true.

Read more: Trump administration must restore hundreds of UCLA research grants, federal judge rules

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Technically, the University of California is run by the Board of Regents, of which Newsom is a member. But Newsom has so far appointed or reappointed several voting members, and you're not going to convince me that the rest will go rogue on this decision on how to battle for the soul of UCLA, one of the most important the board will ever make.

So Newsom will be the decider, to steal a phrase from President George W. Bush.

And deciding to capitulate not only looks bad, but has terrible consequences that would dog a candidate Newsom. Not to mention crippling California as a whole.

Harvard may hold a place in the American psyche as the best of the best, but when it comes to actual impact, UCLA and the University of California system are in an entirely different league. More than 1 million Californians hold a degree from a UC, with about 200,000 currently enrolled across the system. Each year, UCLA alone contributes more than $2 billion to the local economy, and adds to the body of human knowledge with its unparalleled research in ways that money cannot quantify.

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"With all respect to Harvard, the University of California dwarfs Harvard in terms of size and scale and the impact on the country," state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) told me. "When you look at the UC just in terms of science and healthcare and helping to birth Silicon Valley, helping to birth the pharmaceutical industry, the UC has a cultural, educational and economic relevance unlike any other institution on the planet."

The stakes are simply higher for California. Harvard, a private university, can not only withstand more financially, but ultimately matters less. UCLA is the "people's university," as Zev Yaroslavsky puts it. He's a former L.A. County supervisor and current director of the Los Angeles Initiative at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs.

"There is a difference between a Harvard and a UCLA, or UC Berkeley or UC San Diego or University of Michigan," he said, and if the president managed to extract his pound of flesh, "it would bankrupt the No. 1 public university in the United States."

The problem is this is a lose-lose situation. If the university settles, it is going to be forced to pay a tribute of hundreds of millions of dollars. While it may be able to lower the purposefully debilitating $1 billion Trump is demanding, it will still pay a price that damages it for years to come. But at least it will know the number.

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If the university doesn't settle, it risks years of litigation with no certainty of an eventual win.

On Tuesday, a federal court in a separate lawsuit ordered the administration to unfreeze more than $80 million in funding that is currently being withheld. But even with that win, the entire UC system remains in jeopardy of the president's agenda, and there is no reason to believe the Supreme Court would side with California if or when the case made it that far.

But even if UCLA were to settle, what's to stop Trump from coming back next year for another bite? As Yaroslavsky points out, give a bully your lunch money once, and they'll keep coming back for more.

"There's always a temptation to negotiate and work it out," said Wiener, the state senator. "I don't think that that's an option here."

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Neither do I, though the business-minded decision would be to cut a deal. But we also have a larger issue to consider.

Read more: 'Bring it on, Gavin,' White House says to Newsom on threat to sue over UCLA cuts

Education is resistance to authoritarianism, and crushing it has long been a goal of the far right. Point being, educated, free-thinking folks often prefer diversity and democracy.

In 2021, Vice President JD Vance gave a speech titled "The Universities are the Enemy," which summed it up well.

We have to honestly and aggressively attack the universities in this country," he said. And here we are.

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If the university of the fourth-largest economy on the planet signals that it can't stand up to this, what university will risk it?

"California needs to say, 'No, we're not going to give him control over the UC, we're not going to pay him taxpayer dollars as extortion,'" Wiener said. "If California can't say no, then I don't see who can."

So once again, California  and Californians  are a line of defense. It's up to us to let our leaders know that we don't want our taxpayer-funded universities to cave to this assault, and that we expect our governor to fight.

It's in his best interest, and ours.

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 chairperson of the Sheku Bayoh inquiry has refused a request to step down after the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) questioned his impartiality.

The organisation, which represents rank and file officers, had raised concerns about Lord Bracadale's private meetings with the family of Mr Bayoh.

The father-of-two was 31 when he died in May 2015 after being restrained by six police officers in Kirkcaldy, Fife.

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The SPF claimed the meetings "torpedoed the independence of the chair" but Lord Bracadale said the family's participation in the inquiry was vital.

The former judge has now concluded the five family meetings were "private but not secret" and not unfair to the inquiry process.

However, the issue might not be over as is it understood the SPF is considering challenging the decision through a judicial review in the civil courts.

Lord Bracadale's ruling comes after a hearing in June where the opinion of all the parties represented at the inquiry was aired.

Lord Bracadale has been leading the inquiry into Mr Bayoh's death since 2020 [PA Media]

A spokeswoman for the inquiry said: "After careful consideration of written and oral submissions from core participants, Lord Bracadale has decided not to recuse himself or terminate the appointments of the assessors.

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"Having regard to the relevant legal test he has determined there is no apparent bias.

"Taking into account various considerations in respect of the handling of the Inquiry, he has determined having meetings with the families was not unfair."

A spokesperson for the SPF said: "Any fair minded observer would be concerned when it is revealed that there have been five meetings with a core participant family, without the knowledge of the other core participants.

"The inquiry's legal team asserted that no evidence was discussed at these meetings, it subsequently transpired that was not the case.

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"Police officers will continue to call for a fair and transparent hearing, based on the evidence alone."

During the June hearing, lawyers for the SPF claimed the "meetings were, in almost their entirety, completely inappropriate".

'Last throw of the dice'

The public inquiry has been examining the circumstances of Mr Bayoh's death, and whether race was a factor.

A statement issued by lawyer Aamer Anwar, on behalf of the Bayoh family, said the challenge had been a "desperate last throw of the dice".

It said: "There is nothing wrong with the chair treating a bereaved family with compassion and respect.

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"Despite their desperate claims, the chair Lord Bracadale has done nothing wrong, he is a judge with over 50 years legal experience, respected for his impartiality and integrity."

Mr Anwar was also critical of a submission on behalf of Scotland's solicitor general, Ruth Charteris KC, who is deputy head of the country's prosecution service and a legal adviser to the Scottish government.

It said the "procedure followed by the inquiry was unfair".

The submission also concluded the concerns about apparent bias, about the risk of the appearance of influence on the chair, and about unfairness "require to be acknowledged as valid".

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However, it did not support calls for Lord Bracadale's recusal.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: "I note the detailed and extensive consideration that has informed Lord Bracadale's decision and hope all parties involved can progress the important work of the inquiry as soon as possible.

"The Scottish government remains committed to establishing the facts surrounding the circumstances leading to Mr Bayoh's death.

"However, as it is vital all public inquiries operate independently of government, it would be inappropriate of me to comment any further."

How did Sheku Bayoh die?

The inquiry has been examining what happened before and during the death of Sheku Bayou, who died in police custody. It has been looking at how the police dealt with the aftermath, the investigation into Mr Bayoh's death and whether race was a factor.

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Members of the public called the police after Mr Bayoh was spotted carrying a knife and behaving erratically in the streets of Kirkcaldy on 3 May 2015.

He was not carrying the knife when officers arrived at the scene but a violent confrontation followed, with up to six officers restraining the 31-year-old on the ground.

The father-of-two lost consciousness and later died in hospital.
Sonny Perdue, 2022 file photo. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

How university heads in other neighboring states stack up

University of Alabama System Chancellor Sid Trant takes home $884,716 after a 36% increase from his pay as interim chancellor approved in the spring, according to AL.com.

Peter Hans, University of North Carolina System president, also got a big raise this year, according to the News & Observer, going from about $455,000 to $600,000 on June 1.

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Ray Rodrigues, Chancellor of the State University System of Florida, has a salary of $441,252, while Michael Amiridis of the University of South Carolina system makes $352,184, according to state data.

Randy Boyd, University of Tennessee System president, who is independently wealthy, takes no salary but reportedly accepts a $10,000 stipend to cover health insurance costs.

Chancellor Sonny Perdue, head of the University System of Georgia, could be getting a pay raise to the tune of $50,000, bringing his salary to $572,500.

The Board of Regents voted to move the raise forward Tuesday and kick off a 30-day waiting period before they can vote on the raise. The vote came at the very end of the boards regular meeting, directly after an executive session in which members of the public were asked to leave the room and the livestream was cut off.

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Perdue did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The proposal is not finalized and is part of a formal, transparent process that requires full Board of Regents review and approval, said Board of Regents Chair T. Dallas Smith in a statement. Following the required notice period, I know the Board will consider the proposal in the context of its responsibility to serve students, campuses and the public while being good stewards of state resources.

Perdue, 78, was appointed chancellor by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2022. He previously served as secretary of agriculture from 2017 to 2021 under the first administration of President Donald Trump and as governor of Georgia for two terms, from 2003 to 2011.

According to data compiled by the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts, Perdues salary in fiscal year 2024 was $531,900, which made him one the top-earning state employees in Georgia.

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Compared with university system heads in the states bordering Georgia, Perdues salary is toward the middle of the pack and less than what the leaders of Alabama and North Carolinas systems make following a couple big raises of their own.

The University System of Georgia has celebrated successes in recent months, including record enrollment numbers. Speaking at Tuesdays meeting, Perdue touted a pair of recently released studies he said show the systems economic impact to the state grew 5.4% in fiscal year 2024 and that the class of 2024 will earn on average $1.4 million more over their lifetimes than they would without a college degree.

The regents next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 16, 35 days after Tuesdays meeting and outside the minimum 30-day waiting period to vote on the increase.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A mans charge was upgraded to first-degree murder after the death of a Baton Rouge police sergeant, months after a hit-and-run.

Gad Black, 41, was initially charged with attempted first-degree murder, hate crimes, and resisting an officer after his June arrest. Black was taken into custody after allegedly hitting BRPD Sgt. Caleb Eisworth on Joor Road near Prescott Road on June 16.

Gad Black (East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office)

East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux called the crash a deliberate and cowardly attack. Eisworth died Sunday, Aug. 10, at a Baton Rouge hospital.

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Funeral services announced for Baton Rouge police Sgt. Caleb Eisworth

Records available online show Black remains jailed in the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. District Attorney Hillar Moore confirmed to Louisiana First News that he will seek the death penalty.

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ST. LOUIS  Animal rights advocates are voicing their frustrations after a grand jury recently decided to downgrade charges against an Oklahoma couple accused in whats been described as a horrific case of animal abuse.

On July 11, an employee at St. Louis Cremation in Downtown West contacted police to report a man had arrived in a box truck looking to cremate four dead dogs.

St. Charles issues citywide boil water advisory

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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.

Police were informed the box truck contained several other dogs, many of whom looked to be 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 owned an animal transportation business out of their home.

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Officers asked Peters if they could check the box truck, and Peters agreed. Police said they found 12 dogs in the truck, stacked atop one another in cages. The truck floor was covered in a sawdust-like powder.

According to police, many of the dogs were covered in their own feces and urine. The animals also appeared lethargic due to the high temperature in the back of the box truck.

Peters was later charged with more than a dozen counts of animal abuse. His wife, Jessica, was charged later that month.

But a grand jury opted to downgrade the felony charges to misdemeanor counts, sparking frustration in the animal care community and among animal rights advocates.

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FOX 2 talked to the founder of a local shelter and an out-of-town shelter directly tied to the incident to get their reaction Tuesday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A newly formed grassroots group of Charlotte-area therapists is pushing Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and Mecklenburg County leaders to fix what they say is a three-year backlog in testing rape kits.

The mental health professionals, known as Therapists for Change, say sexual assault survivors are telling them theyre being denied justice.

Be loud and someone will listen, said Emily Reiner, a mental health counselor whos part of the group.

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The therapists say theyre speaking up for those who cant.

Its very upsetting, its very upsetting, said Kaci Pennington, a mental health counselor, who started the group.

The therapists want to tackle issues important to their clients.

A major concern, they say theyre hearing about from those seeking therapy, is that the sexual assault survivors say its taking three years to have their rape kits tested in Mecklenburg County.

We are delaying prosecution. Oftentimes, these folks can be repeat offenders. This is a massive safety concern, said Pennington.

The group of more than 70 mental health professionals sent a letter to the governor, CMPD, and Mecklenburg County commissioners and state lawmakers.

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They say the rape kit testing backlog is a public health concern.

If you cant trust the system to find and persecute the perpetrator, then you are stuck in this place: Well, Im just a victim and nobody cares, said Reiner.

So how bad is the current backlog in Charlotte-Mecklenburg?

Queen City News reached out to CMPD to find out how long its taking rape kit tests to be completed.

We have not heard back from the department.

To see that justice is delayed and delayed and delayed, its heartbreaking, said Reiner.

The therapists are asking county and state leaders to commit emergency funds to hire more staff to speed up the process and clear the backlog.

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Its a way to show the community that safety is a priority, that these crimes arent going to be swept under the rug, Reiner.

The District Attorneys office in Mecklenburg County told us they believe CMPD is prioritizing the analysis of the kits, but they referred us to CMPD for more details.

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MAYVILLE, N.Y. (WIVB)  The Chautauqua County Health Department released information this week advising people to be aware of harmful algal blooms in Chautauqua Lake.

Know it, avoid it, report it. The first step that everybody should do is take some time to familiarize themselves with what a harmful algal bloom is, said Jessica Wuerstle, the director of Chautauqua Countys Environmental Health Services. We advise people that any time theyre seeing an area that is really dense and does have that pea soup appearance or that spilled appearance on the surface, thats a possible toxin emitting harmful algal and they should avoid that.

Wuerstle said Chautauqua Lake is experiencing harmful algal blooms, which are a result of blue green algae. It can look like green pea soup, spilled paint or cause streaking in a lakes surface, and can release harmful cyanotoxins.

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Officials said its safe to swim in the areas with clear water without these blooms, but if a person or a pet does get exposed to a potential harmful algal bloom, to immediately rinse off with soap and water.

Its a toxin that can affect you differently, depending on how youre exposed, so if youre exposed just by getting it on your skin, then you could see a red rash, just sort of a basic skin irritation rash, form, Wuerstle said. You could also ingest the water and if youre swallowing it, then youre gonna end up with some gastrointestinal issues, you know, vomiting, diarrhea, that sort of thing, or you could breathe in those water droplets that might contain the toxin.

In the release, officials recommend avoiding the potential harmful algal blooms by avoiding swimming, wading and boating in areas with visible blooms, to not fish or eat fish from those areas, and to obey beach closures. They also said to never use untreated surface water, with or without blooms, for drinking, food preparation, cooking and more.

These harmful algal blooms can occur at any time of year, but they are common in the mid-to late summers, as the organism thrives in warm water and sunny conditions.

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Family develops rashes after cleaning waterfront property on Chautauqua Lake

The warm sunny summer days that we all love are also the warm sunny days that this organism loves, so its going to really do well and thrive in those conditions, Wuerstle said. We havent had a whole lot of stormy weather that would cause some waves and currents and break this stuff up at all, so some of these blooms  especially in the Southern Basin  are likely to stick around until theres a real significant change in weather

The Health Department encourages residents and visitors to exercise caution and stay informed on what is considered a harmful algal bloom. They said this is something that is nothing new on Chautauqua Lake.

The organism itself has been around for much longer than humans have. Its a very old organism, Wuerstle said. Its absolutely native to Chautauqua Lake. Its something that has always been here and were seeing the blooms now, partially because were having warmer summers, and the organism really blooms and thrives in warm water and sunny conditions.

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Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel said he hasnt seen as many algal blooms this year as opposed to previous years.

Its an ongoing problem that were never going to get away from, Wendel said. Listen to the health department, if they say stay out, please stay out. It could be harmful or fatal to animals, but its all a matter of ingestion and, you know, obviously I dont know how many people go swimming with an open mouth, but you try to stay out of those areas.

If a possible harmful algal bloom is spotted, people can report it to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation here.

If DEC verifies that its actually a HAB [harmful algal bloom] event, theyll put a little dot on a map and then you as a internet user can click on that and see where it was located, how long ago it was located, what the severity of the bloom is, so there is that sort of information out there for folks as well, Wuerstle said.

Latest Local News

Hope Winter is a reporter and multimedia journalist who has been part of the News 4 team since 2021. See more of her work here.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  A Ward Village restaurant closed abruptly in June and workers say they are still waiting for paychecks.

Upscale Canadian restaurant chain to make Hawaii debut in Waikiki

One former employee came to KHON for help, saying she and her former co-workers are owed thousands.

7 ways to get paid when your employer shuts down

Straits Hawaii was known for its Singapore street food flavors and chic spot in Ward Village. But in June, without warning, it shut its doors.

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It was a second paycheck that bounced, but the first one, it was a little less than $300 and then it came back two weeks after, said former server Deanna Tacmo.

Tacmo said shes owed about $1500 in pay and shared with us documents and text messages from other workers saying they still havent been paid and were not getting answers from the owners nor managers.

I was upset because it was a lot of money, and then theres all of us that didnt get paid, and some of us, like, have families and have kids and stuff, said Tacmo.

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A representative of the management company, Manna Restaurant Group, refused to go on camera, but said they tried to get the insurance company to release money to pay workers, but blame the attorneys for blocking their request. Our attempts to get a response from the insurance company were unsuccessful.

Court records show the management company is also embroiled in legal disputes over another of its restaurants, Romanos Macaroni Grill at Ala Moana.

Its sad because the employees deserve to be paid for their wages. And because it kind of puts them in a terrible situation, said Jade Butay, Department of Labor and Industrial Relations Director. They need to put food on the table and meet their family. So, we do what we can to protect the workers.

The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is investigating, and says unpaid wages are a violation of state law and urge employees in similar situations to:

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Gather records and documentation that prove you worked there and werent paid

File a claim with DLIRs Wage Standards Division

Consider Small Claims Court if necessary

Stay in contact with co-workers. Group claims can sometimes carry more weight.

And if back wages are found due, the employee is entitled to double the back wages, plus 6% interest, and then we are also going to tack on a $500 penalty, said Butay.

Tacmo has filed her claim and is still waiting.

Living in Hawaii is already so expensive, and its just not okay to do this to the locals who are already trying to work as many jobs as they can, said Tacmo.

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Ward Village said in a statement that despite our best efforts to find a resolution, Straits has been unable to meet its lease obligations and Ward Village is looking for a new tenant to take over the space.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

KHON will keep pressing for answers and will let you know if these workers get paid.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
CHESAPEAKE  City Council members can now participate in council meetings virtually under limited circumstances.

Chesapeake City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to allow virtual meeting participation under a limited set of circumstances defined under Virginia code. Vice Mayor John de Triquet was absent from the meeting.

The newly adopted policy will allow individual members to make a request to the mayor and city clerk to participate remotely, either before the meeting or at the start. The request will then be voted on at the council meeting and recorded in the official minutes.

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Virginia code allows virtual participation if the member has a temporary or permanent disability or other medical condition preventing physical attendance. Council members can also make the request if a family member has a medical condition preventing attendance, or if theyre a caretaker for a family member with a disability and cant be at the meeting.

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Citing personal matters as a reason is allowed, but the council member must specify the personal reason and it will be reflected in the meeting minutes. Virtual attendance because of personal matters is limited to 25% of the councils public meetings in a calendar year. The council meets regularly three times a month, so that amounts to roughly nine or so meetings.

City staff said the request to place the issue on the agenda for a vote came from five council members. Its not clear what prompted the request in Chesapeake, but some neighboring cities like Norfolk allow the practice.

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Later in the meeting, council member Pat King suggested further discussion in the future to expand the virtual participation option to the public. The public can watch council meetings live and on-demand, but they currently cant share public comment virtually during the meeting. City Clerk Sandy Madison told The Virginian-Pilot that sometimes a resident reaches out and requests that their correspondence be read aloud at the meeting during a public comment period, and in those cases, she passes the information to council members, who can then consider reading it aloud.

The city also allowed virtual participation in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but city staff said that practice organically tapered off over time.

Council member Amanda Newins pushed back on Kings request, citing the potential cost of purchasing additional equipment to make it happen. Mayor Rick West was open to further discussion on the issue, but noted that sometimes the meetings call for time limits, and that a live messaging function may be more efficient.

Natalie Anderson, 757-732-1133, natalie.anderson@virginiamedia.com
The Brief

A 32-year-old man was fatally shot early Wednesday in the Rogers Park neighborhood.

Police said the victim was hit several times in the upper body around 2 a.m. and later died at St. Francis Hospital.

No arrests have been made as Area Three detectives investigate.

CHICAGO - A man was shot and killed Wednesday morning in the Rogers Park neighborhood.

What we know

The 32-year-old was outside around 2 a.m. when someone approached him and started shooting in the 1600 block of West Estes Avenue, according to police.

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The victim was shot several times in the upper body and was taken to St. Francis Hospital where he later died. He has not yet been identified.

Police said no arrests have been made.

Area Three detectives are investigating.

The Source

The information in this report came from the Chicago Police Department.
CHICAGO (WGN)  Chicago firefighters and paramedics have reached a tentative contract agreement with the city of Chicago after working without a contract for nearly four years.

President of Local 2 Firefighters Union Pat Cleary spoke Tuesday from Springfield after years of talks about a contract for Chicagos firefighters and paramedics. A tentative agreement is now on table, but the city could sign off on it in a matter of weeks.

Its a good contract, but I dont like the process, but Im happy for members. They deserve it, Cleary said. Were not in the endzone yetIm hoping at the September meeting itll be done.

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SEE ALSO: Chicago firefighters raise alarm over equipment issues

While full details have not been released, WGN-TV can confirm it includes years of retroactive pay.

It goes back to 2021, so theyre going to get retro pay raises and then thatll affect their salary for 2021, 22, 23, 24 and then theres pay raises going forward as well, Cleary said. The firefighters and paramedics work hard every day in terrible weather; shootings, fires, you know, just craziness, and they deserve pay raises. They deserve to have a safe work environment and Im proud that theyre going to get a good contract and Ill continue to fight for them.

That could mean a cumulative 15% bump right off the bat, with further incremental raises on the cards for both next year and 2027.

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Mayor Brandon Johnson weighed in Tuesday on the prospective deal, saying all of that money has been budgeted for.

Sonya Massey Act targets police misconduct with stricter hiring standards

Part of the agreement would include  and we budgeted for  backpay, and there are some other elements within the tentative agreement that I believe places us in a stronger position to build a safe and affordable big city, Johnson said. We have budgeted the backpay for the duration of the contract.

Whats not included in the deal is additional ambulances for the city, but new legislation could help offset ongoing issues with rigs.

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Every day rigs are breaking down. We just had an engine, Engine 38, broke down the other day, Cleary said.

Up until now, the millions collected annuially for the likes of ambulance transportation has been placed in the citys general revenue fund, and used for purposes often unrelated to emergencies.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Legislation passed in May will now set aside 10% of the money collected from Chicago-based ambulance rides to be used to upgrade emergency vehicles.

That bill is expected to be signed off on in the coming days.

The contract will take a bit longer, but the City Council Workforce Committee will meet in the next few weeks and it could be approved by the full city council before the end of September.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Latin Restaurant Weeks is back for its fifth year in Chicago with chefs, restaurants and pop-ups hoping to highlight the diverse flavors of the Hispanic culinary scene across the city with prix fixe menus ranging from traditional homestyle recipes to ones serving up modern mole pizza.

While there is a diverse lineup and a variety of specials to pick from, this years 20 participating restaurants is almost half what the number was last year, largely due to the political climate. Organizers for Latin Restaurant Weeks said many of its usual roster of restaurants are feeling the economic and emotional effects of the Trump administrations intensified immigration enforcement in the city and suburbs, forcing them to fly under the radar.

People are just hypervigilant and were proud of who we are and what we do, said Karinn Chavarria, founder of Latin Restaurant Weeks. Food is what brings us together, and food is such a big part of our culture, but when youre being scrutinized, its like youre having to take a step back in order to take a step forward. Its a very, very weird dichotomy going on right now. Its a strange place to be, and its a strange place to operate.

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Chavarria said events like Latin Restaurant Weeks make cultural cuisines accessible to people who are unfamiliar with Puerto Rican, Venezuelan, Oaxacan dishes  beyond the usual tacos and tamales. And in the current climate, the event boosts the importance of culture and food instead of the despair and political plight the community has felt in recent months.

Chavarria said that since launching five years ago, a majority of participating restaurants across Atlanta, Chicago and Miami witnessed up to a 20% increase in diners, as well as a boost in social media engagement during and after each campaign.

Jessica Perjes, co-owner of family-owned Tacotlan in the Hermosa neighborhood, has participated each year since Latin Restaurant Weeks launched in 2019, serving the spots beloved quesabirrias for a bargain. Theres an added emphasis on promoting the event this year, she added.

This really highlights all the effort that we put into making sure that we share our cuisine, that we showcase how much love we put into every day, Perjes said. We came to the States  we struggled so hard to try to get here that its so important for people to show out and support everybody thats trying to make it through that struggle, especially now.

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Perjes said a lot of people in Hermosa or Pilsen are scared to go out these days because of the fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in predominantly Latino and Hispanic communities. On the other hand, many restaurant owners are also hesitant to keep operations open.

Thats why Latin Restaurant Weeks is the best way to go about it, so those customers (and owners) know all of Chicago is rooting for all Latinos to keep going and keep their doors open, Perjes said.

For Latin Restaurant Weeks, Tacotlan is offering a $25 special that includes a large drink, three taco dinner (choice of asada, chicken, al pastor, or beef or chicken quesabirrias) and a choice of flan, churro tres leches or duvalin for dessert.

At Rubis Chicago in Pilsen, owner Evelyn Ramirez Landa is serving a $15 sope, a traditional Mexican dish with a fried masa base and savory toppings.

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We call it picadita where my parents are from in Mexico, said Ramirez Landa. Its going to be the sope and a stew of potatoes and a tomato sauce thats a little bit spicy  its just how they do it where my dad is from.

Ramirez Landa said shes also excited about serving customers an ice-cold chilate  a Mexican drink from the state of Guerrero made with cacao beans, cinnamon, rice and brown sugar.

Last year, Rubis Latin Restaurant Weeks special was such a hit, they put it on the menu permanently. Ramirez Landa expects about the same this time, too.

Other participants this year include Sabe a Zulia, serving authentic Venezuelan staples from arepas to patacon; Oak Park-based Hoja Santa with Mexican fusion dishes including mole pizza, Calabaza (roasted butternut squash, salsa macha and roasted cashews) and Tuetano (roasted bone marrow with grilled nopales, red salsa and tortillas).

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Artango Bar & Steakhouse will be offering a $60 three-course meal, with options including ceviche nikkei, bife de chorizo and flan, while Bar Tabu will serve a $45 five-course meal, with options including chips and salsa, yucca fries, surf and turf flautas, asada tacos and churro bites.

Humboldt Parks Buen Provecho is offering traditional Puerto Rican fare with a jibarito with arroz con gandules and tostones, while Azul Mariscos has a three-course meal for $25. Guests can choose the shrimp ceviche or elotes, a taco flight and cinnamon ice cream churro.

Latin Restaurant Weeks runs Aug. 15-29. For a full list of participating restaurants, visit latinrestaurantweeks.com.
The Brief

Ortez Owens, 35, was arrested Aug. 10 in connection with a fatal shooting and robbery on Chicagos West Side.

Police say two suspects opened fire on two 18-year-old men, killing one and injuring the other, before stealing property.

Owens faces multiple felony counts, including murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery; court date is Aug. 13.

CHICAGO - A Chicago man has been charged with murder, attempted murder and armed robbery in connection with a fatal shooting and robbery on the West Side, police said.

What we know

Ortez Owens, 35, was arrested just before 7:15 p.m. Aug. 10 in the 1100 block of North Laramie Avenue, according to Chicago police.

Pictured is Ortez Owens, 35. (Chicago PD)

He was identified as a suspect in a robbery that occurred about 14 hours earlier, during which an 18-year-old man was fatally shot and another 18-year-old man was injured in the 5000 block of West Maypole Avenue.

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Police said the victims had been arguing when two people in a vehicle approached them. The suspects pulled out firearms and fired toward the victims, striking both.

One victim was shot twice in the back and taken to Stroger Hospital, where he died. The second victim was shot in the arm and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was last listed in good and stable condition.

Charges Filed

Owens faces the following charges:

One felony count of first-degree murder

Three felony counts of attempted first-degree murder

One felony count of murder with strong probability of death or injury

One felony count of murder in the course of another forcible felony

One felony count of armed robbery with a firearm

Three felony counts of attempted armed robbery with a firearm

He is scheduled to appear in court for a detention hearing Aug. 13.
CHICAGO (WGN)  The Cook County States Attorney announced Wednesday the Chicago police officers involved with the fatal 2024 police-involved shooting of Dexter Reed will not be charged.

Speaking at a news conference, Cook County States Attorney Eileen ONeill Burke said the evidence is clear and overwhelming they would not be able to reach convictions in the case.

This decision is not reached lightly, nor does it diminish the tragedy that occurred, but it is unmistakable that Mr. Reed was the first to fire his weapon  a gun that he did not legally possess, ONeill Burke said.

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Reed was shot and killed during a traffic stop on March 21, 2024, in the citys Humboldt Park neighborhood.

Previous Coverage: COPA: Officers fired 96 times after being fired upon in fatal Humboldt Park shooting last month

Court records show Reed was out on bond for unlawful use of a weapon when he was stopped. According to COPA, the officers  who were wearing plain clothes and traveling in an unmarked police vehicle  initiated the traffic stop because Reed wasnt wearing a seat belt.

Reed failed to comply with the officers commands and proceeded to fire several shots through his passenger window, hitting one of the officers in the wrist, according to officials.

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Investigators said Reed fired out of both the passenger and drivers side of his vehicle. He then got out as the shooting unfolded and left behind a gun in the vehicle, which prosecutors said was empty and in the slide-lock position.

The four other officers returned fire, hitting Reed.

Prosecutors added extensive testing was done on the gun recovered from the vehicle. It was later determined the gun had been stolen from Gary, Indiana, in 2019 and later used in a 2023 shootout with an off-duty CPD officer. No one was injured in that case, but investigators did say several shooters and firearms were recovered.

All of the ballistics evidence was recovered and submitted to the crime lab for testing, and later when this weapon was recovered, the association was made, Supervisor of Cook Countys Law Enforcement Review Unit Lynn McCarthy said.

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An investigation and autopsy showed the officers fired their guns nearly 100 times at Reed, striking him 13 times.

ONeill Burke said the evidence shows officers did not break the law, but instead engaged in protective conduct at the time Reed was killed.

Lawsuit alleges CPS violated policy hiring security guard now accused of sexual assault

What happened that evening was a tragedy. A young life ended, a police officer was shot with a potentially career-ending injury, and many other lives were upended, ONeill Burke said. As you can see, it was a terrifying a chaotic scene.

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The Civilian Office of Police Accountability released video a few weeks following the shooting that showed the exchange of gunfire between Chicago police officers and Reed.

Prosecutors broke down that video along with other evidence. They said Reed fired the first shots about 30 seconds after the police officers approached his vehicle. In the ensuing 41 seconds, a total of 107 shots were fired, 11 by Reed and 96 by the other four officers, including one who fired 50 times.

Prosecutors also said the wounded officer did not fire any shots.

ONeill Burkes Office said the decision not to charge the officers in this case was based solely on the law, not whether police tactics were followed, which is something COPA investigates.

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The case has sparked widespread outrage and led to Reeds family filing a lawsuit against the city and police.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Attorney Andrew Stroth with Action Injury Law Group is representing the family and said his office fundamentally disagrees with the states attorneys decision, saying it is not about charges at this point.

This case is about the unconstitutional, pretextual racist stop by tactical officers, Stroth said. Dexter Reed was stopped for being Black on the West Side of Chicago, and if the stop didnt happen, 96 shots wouldnt have happened and Dexter Reed would be alive today.

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Reeds family said they will continue to pursue a federal civil rights lawsuit.

WGN-TV reached out to CPD, COPA and Mayor Brandon Johnsons Office for comment.

CPD referred to the ongoing investigaton with COPA, but said three of the involved officers remain on administrative duties, while two other are inactive.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  Greg Terry, Chief of the Bakersfield Police Department, joined 17 News at Sunrise to discuss recent tragic incidents that have occurred in town such as the death of eight-year-old Genesis Mata and the shooting on Rhone Drive.

In relation to the gruesome nature of the death of Genesis Mata, Chief Terry says police officers are offered mental wellness resources.

Bicyclist killed in SW Bakersfield collision identified: coroner

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To listen to Chief Terry talk about when the Bakersfield Police Department can intervene in child abuse incidents when CPS cannot and the Rhone Drive shooting, you watch the full segment in the video player above.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ)  A Venango County man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he was involved in an armed standoff while under investigation for possessing child sexual abuse material.

Gregory L. Ahmadian, 64, of Utica, was charged with 11 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and one count of criminal use of a communication facility, the Pennsylvania Attorney Generals Office announced Wednesday.

Investigators said agents went to Ahmadians home around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday to serve a search warrant following a proactive investigation that revealed the uploading of lewd materials. According to officials, Ahmadian was armed inside the residence, prompting a standoff with law enforcement that lasted about three hours.

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Agents from the Attorney Generals Office and Pennsylvania State Police negotiated with Ahmadian until he surrendered around 4:30 p.m. No injuries were reported.

He was arraigned late Tuesday night, and a magisterial district judge denied bail, citing him as a threat to self or others, according to the Attorney Generals Office.

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The Child Predator Section of the Attorney Generals Office is prosecuting the case. Authorities said all charges are allegations and Ahmadian is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
In retaliation for European Union sanctions on two Chinese banks, China on Wednesday imposed counter-measures against two European lenders: UAB Urbo Bankas and AB Mano Bankas.

Chinese organizations and individuals are now prohibited from conducting transactions or cooperating with these banks.

Both banks are based in Lithuania, which has been in a diplomatic dispute with Beijing since 2021 over the opening of a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius. At that time, China also imposed trade restrictions on the Baltic nation.

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The new measures are a direct response to an EU sanctions package targeting Russia last month, which also included penalties for two smaller Chinese banks near the Russian border. Beijing had previously vowed to retaliate.

The EU's sanctions aim to weaken Russias military capabilities in its war against Ukraine.
BEIJING (AP)  China imposed sanctions on two Lithuanian banks in what it said was retaliation for the European Union including two Chinese financial institutions in its latest round of sanctions against Russia.

Lithuania's UAB Urbo Bankas and Mano Bankas AB are prohibited from having any cooperation with individuals or institutions in China, according to a statement Wednesday from the Ministry of Commerce.

The European Union adopted a new round of sanctions against individuals and companies supporting Russia in its war with Ukraine in July, which went into effect August 9. Among them were multiple Chinese companies, although China's Ministry of Commerce did not name which financial institutions were affected.

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The EU, disregarding Chinas solemn position, insisted on adding two Chinese financial institutions to its sanctions list for alleged involvement in Russia, and formally implemented the sanctions on August 9," said the statement. It added the move "severely damages the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies, and has a serious negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations and financial cooperation."

NATO has in the past called China a decisive enabler of Russia's war effort as its companies sold tools, equipment and microelectronics.
By Adrian Portugal

OVER THE SCARBOROUGH SHOAL, South China Sea -A Chinese jet fighter "intercepted" a Philippine aircraft carrying journalists during a patrol flight over the Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday, the Manila government said, days after two Chinese vessels collided in the area while allegedly trying to block a Philippine supply mission.

A Reuters journalist aboard the Philippine Coast Guard flight watched as the Chinese fighter closed in on the small Cessna Caravan turboprop. At one point the Chinese fighter came within about 200 feet (61 metres) as it manoeuvred behind, above, and alongside the plane, PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela said.

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It was the latest sign of the persistent tensions between the two nations in the disputed South China Sea atoll.

"While they were conducting the flight, they have been intercepted by a Chinese fighter jet," Tarriela told a press conference held afterwards.

The encounter lasted 20 minutes, during which radio demands from one of two Chinese navy ships spotted below ordering the Philippine plane to "leave immediately" could be heard from the cockpit.

The same day, two U.S. warships - littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati and the destroyer USS Higgins - were spotted about 30 nautical miles away from the shoal, Tarriela said.

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China's military claimed it "drove away" the U.S. destroyer after it entered the area without permission, but Washington said its ships were conducting lawful freedom of navigation operations.

Located 200 km (124 miles) off the Philippines and inside its exclusive economic zone, Scarborough Shoal is valued for its rich fishing grounds and sheltered lagoon.

On Monday, the PCG sent three vessels to carry supplies to dozens of Filipino fishermen in the atoll. It said Chinese vessels then intervened to carry out what it called a "hazardous" attempt to prevent the delivery, leading to the first known collision between two Chinese ships in the area.

China has not confirmed if any crew were injured, and ignored Manila's offer of medical and rescue aid.

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Neither China's defence ministry nor its embassy in Manila has commented on the incident. On Monday, China's coast guard said it took necessary measures to expel Philippine vessels from waters around the shoal.

The United States also condemned Beijing's "reckless" actions.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea via a U-shaped "nine-dash line," a claim invalidated by a 2016 arbitration ruling that also found China's blockade of the Scarborough shoal unlawful.

Sovereignty over the shoal remains unresolved, but China, which rejects the ruling, has maintained a constant presence at the reef since seizing it in 2012, deploying coastguard vessels and "maritime militia".

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At least four Chinese coast guard vessels, and several ships identified by the PCG as "maritime militia," were visible in the area during Wednesday's patrol flight.

(Writing by Karen Lema; Editing by David Stanway)
Chris Murphy has been warning for months that voters want Democrats to fight. This summer, the Connecticut senator is picking a battle that puts him at odds with his Democratic colleagues.

Murphy has made surprising moves over the last month to protest bipartisan government funding talks as a member of the Appropriations Committee, demonstrating his vision of what opposition to President Donald Trump should look like and further stoking speculation about his own presidential ambitions.

The third-term senator said in a recent interview that Trump "doesn't give a fuck what we write into spending legislation. And so he sees no reason to participate in the drafting of funding bills if the president is going to keep withholding billions of dollars Congress already approved and goading Republican senators to claw back more.

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Every single day, there's new evidence that our democracy is falling, and you've got to take stands. You have to take fights, Murphy explained. I just worry  every time that we go along with these appropriations bills, we're putting a bipartisan veneer of endorsement on an illegal process that's ultimately part of his campaign to destroy our democracy.

As the top Democrat on the appropriations panel that funds the Department of Homeland Security, Murphy occupies a role that has historically demanded across-the-aisle collaboration. But in recent weeks, he opposed all spending measures advanced during Senate Appropriations Committee markups for which he was present, challenged his Republican counterpart on the DHS funding bill and voted no on the Senates first bipartisan funding package of the year.

Im nothing if not consistent. I dont like the position Im in, Murphy said. Its lonely. 28-to-1 votes are lonely.

So far, Murphy isnt slamming his colleagues for embracing bipartisan negotiations, and his peers arent directly criticizing his approach. But they arent exactly praising him either.

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He has the right to his opinion," said the top Democratic appropriator in the Senate, Patty Murray of Washington. "And I just have the opinion that the more we can do to get bills done, the better chance we have of getting better things for our country.

Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii, one of Murphys friends and another senior member of the Appropriations Committee, said Democrats have a duty to at least attempt to strike a cross-party compromise on federal spending ahead of the Sept. 30 shutdown deadline.

Im not his spokesperson, said Schatz, who is in line to be the chambers Democratic whip in the next Congress. So all I can say is: We've been demanding a bipartisan process. So when there's a step in that direction, I think its our obligation to try to be constructive.

While Murphy has never been a moderate, he has grown rapidly into a liberal firebrand in recent years. Once best known on Capitol Hill for his advocacy for gun control and his foreign policy expertise, he's now a frequent anti-Trump voice on cable news shows and has waded into controversial social topics like the nations male identity crisis .

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But Murphys latest political stand against Trump comes as his name is floated for a bigger-stage battle against Republicans  this time as a presidential contender in 2028.

If the 52-year-old senator seeks the Democratic nomination in three years, his protest of government funding bills could help differentiate him as a candidate who fought the Trump administration with more than just verbal criticism.

It does fit, right? These are strategies that would make sense if he's interested in a national platform and to run for office like president, said Hans Noel, a Georgetown University professor who studies presidential nominations.

There's some appeal to a lot of voters  of fighting  especially at the national stage, where he doesn't have to worry about winning over allies for legislative progress, Noel continued. Murphy has been somebody whos been talking on a national stage for a long time. Its not completely new. But hes somebody whos got that kind of appeal.

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This past week, Murphy spent his birthday at an event with progressives in Arizona, where he talked broadly about the need for Democrats to balance opposition with real policy commitments: We cant just be against Donald Trump. Weve got to give people a vision of something different.

Since Trumps election last November, Murphy has grown a beard, announced the end of his 17-year marriage and sparked rumors about romantic ties to a prominent Democratic strategist. In April, he hosted a town hall back in rural North Carolina  more than 500 miles from his blue home state. Then this summer, he launched a PAC aimed at taking on Trump and Republicans in Congress.

Murphy hasnt always resisted negotiations with Republicans. In 2022, after a gunman left 21 people dead inside a Texas elementary school, he undertook weeks of painstaking talks that resulted in the first significant federal gun-control legislation in two decades. It was the culmination of a nearly decade-long fight for Murphy, who represented Sandy Hook Elementary School in the House at the time of that devastating 2012 shooting.

His next foray into bipartisan talks did not have a happy ending. Last year he scrupulously crafted the high-profile bipartisan border deal with Oklahoma Republican Sen. James Lankford, in an attempt to enact Congress first major immigration overhaul in more than three decades. Then Trump chilled Republican support for the bill.

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To Murphy, it signaled that Republicans couldnt be trusted to be good-faith actors in negotiations to fund the government: I think that drama was early proof that they're never going to cross him, he said of Republicans loyalty to Trump.

This belief was further cemented when Murphys GOP colleagues cleared Trumps $9 billion rescission request last month targeting public broadcasting and foreign aid.

They can say that they're going to honor the words on the page, Murphy said. Yet if Trump decides to ignore the law, he continued, I just don't think that my Republican colleagues are going to really fight to protect it.

Democratic leaderships interest in engaging in bipartisan funding negotiations, from which Murphy is abstaining, is a relatively new development. Just a month ago, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer penned a lengthy dear colleague letter insinuating that his members should cut off cross-party talks if Republicans accepted the White Houses rescissions package.

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Nine days later, Senate Republicans banded together to pass that bill. And five days after that, Schumer stood with his House counterpart , Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, to announce that Democrats still want to pursue a bipartisan, bicameral appropriations process.

It has left Murphy as the lone Democratic appropriator continually opposing the funding bills his colleagues are trying to advance, even as he readily admits its not the substance of the spending measures hes against.

The bills themselves are good, bipartisan bills, said Murphy. It's just  I don't believe that anything in there is actually going to be implemented.

This is the case Murphy said he wants to get through to Sen. Katie Britt, the Alabama Republican who chairs the Homeland Security appropriations panel opposite Murphy. The two lawmakers were seen last month in a heated exchange in the well of the Senate floor after passage of the clawback request. Britt described the conversation, captured by C-SPAN cameras, as a spirited dialogue, vowing: Ill continue to work in good faith, as I always have.

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Murphy, however, said negotiations on the DHS funding bill will be meaningless if Trump and Republicans are going to undermine the spending directives when the measure becomes law. We had an animated discussion, Murphy said of his talk with Britt. Obviously it's hard to write a bill when the administration is going to stab you in the back as soon as you write it, especially in a space as difficult as immigration and DHS.

He pointed to specific examples of how Trump has already undermined appropriators, including the presidents efforts to fund the controversial Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center in Florida by diverting money Congress appropriated for humane alternatives to detainment.

And you know, Murphy continued, he's going to use the money in this budget to treat immigrants like animals.

Jordain Carney, Katherine Tully-McManus and Cassandra Dumay contributed to this report.
Her again? Judging by social media, thats the primary progressive response to the news that anti-LGBTQ activist and former Kentucky County Court Clerk Kim Davis has filed a lawsuit petitioning the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 decision that legalized marriage equality. The suit, which was brought on Davis behalf by the Liberty Counsel, a far-right group devoted to so-called religious liberty cases, seeks to appeal a jury verdict that requires her to pay $360,000 in emotional damages and legal fees to a gay couple she denied a marriage license to on religious grounds after the courts ruling.

Davis refusal to issue marriage licenses in the wake of the Obergefell decision provided her with 15 minutes of fame. A federal judge in Kentucky sentenced her to six days in jail for breaking the law, and after her release she gave interviews to ABC News and Christian publications, attended President Barack Obamas 2016 State of the Union address and embarked on a speaking tour of Romania in support of a referendum that sought to cement the countrys ban on same-sex marriage.

But while most people might have forgotten Davis, she hasnt moved on. She has spent the last decade proclaiming her alleged victimhood to establish her Christian martyr bona fides. When she ran for reelection in her rural Appalachian county in 2018, she lost by 8%. Now shes asking the Supreme Court to rule that the only way to preserve the religious freedom of anti-gay bigots is to strip marriage rights away from LGBTQ people.

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The argument is so preposterous it feels unlikely that even this far-right Supreme Court, complete with three justices appointed by President Donald Trump, would struggle to pretend that the mere existence of other peoples marriages constitutes oppression of Christians. Unfortunately, its not as crazy as it seems  especially after this years decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which functionally allowed a minority of hyper-religious parents to ban all books mentioning LGBTQ people from schools on the grounds of religious freedom. As Justice Samuel Alito argued in that case, because acceptance of marriage equality is directly contrary to the religious principles of the plaintiffs, mere exposure to notions of acceptance violates their First Amendment rights.

As many critics pointed out, if merely seeing a same-sex couple in a storybook oppresses Christians, then what about the rest of the world? Are Christians persecuted by TV ads that feature gay families? Are they violated by seeing happy queer couples in public? Are they being wronged if they happen to walk by as people outside a venue celebrate a same-sex wedding? Well, yes, thats what many in the Christian right believe, including at least some of the courts conservative justices.

In his dissent of the Obergefell ruling, Justice Clarence Thomas argued that marriage equality threatens the religious liberty our Nation has long sought to protect. Seven years later, in his concurrence for Dobbs v. Jackson Womans Health, the decision that ended abortion rights, Thomas held that the Supreme Court should also reconsider past cases that legalized birth control, gay sex and same-sex marriage.

In 2016, I interviewed Dan Canon, the plaintiff lawyer in Obergefell, who argued that while a Trump-ified Supreme Court could end abortion rights and other important legal precedents, it was really improbable that theyd go after same-sex marriage. Someone would have to be injured by someone elses right to be married in order to have standing to sue, he said. He reconsidered his opinion in 2021, writing for Salon that Trumpism has become terrifyingly proud of its capacity to mow down democratic norms and resculpt them into steaming piles of excrement.

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I reached out to him via email on Tuesday about Davis petition. I think SCOTUS is unlikely to take the case, he replied, but I dont want to sound too confident about that since we are dealing with a court that is obviously motivated by a political agenda and not anything that the rest of the world might recognize as law.' Still, he wrote, the ONLY reason to take this particular case would be to undo marriage equality  period. If the court were to agree to hear Davis case, this [would be] a five-alarm fire and people need to prepare accordingly.

Jim Obergefell, the cases lead plaintiff, is more skeptical, according to a recent profile published in POLITICO Magazine to mark the 10th anniversary of the courts decision. Dylon Jones, who wrote the article and serves as one of the magazines senior editors, noted that Obergefell expressed the belief that the current makeup of the court would have ruled against him. He also believes it could very well overturn the decision now.

Davis has been actively pursuing this petition for a decade, trying to argue that she has standing because she lost her job. This has never worked, because as a government employee, she had to treat everyone equally according to the law. Imagine the reverse scenario of a county court clerk refusing to issue marriage licenses to Christians because he disapproved of their religion. It quickly becomes obvious why she has no leg to stand on.

Want more Amanda Marcotte on politics? Sign up for her free newsletter, Standing Room Only, now also on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

Thats why, since the moment the Obergefell decision was handed down, Republicans have toyed with the broader argument that the mere fact of same-sex marriages existence inherently oppresses Christians by making them feel bad. Alito spelled this out in his dissent of Obergefell. If same-sex marriage is legalized, he argued, it would become normalized. I assume that those who cling to old beliefs will be able to whisper their thoughts in the recesses of their homes, but if they repeat those views in public, they will risk being labeled as bigots and treated as such by governments, employers, and schools, he warned.

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Alito is famously whiny. But hes far from the only Republican arguing that Christians are being persecuted if they are exposed to evidence that others disagree with their views. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, argued that its religious oppression of Christians to simply live in states where same-sex couples are getting married. Brian Umphress, a state court judge in Texas, is suing on the grounds that marrying same-sex couples is not just a violation of his religious freedom, but that hes also experiencing religious oppression because people think that makes him a bigot. During Justice Ketanji Brown Jacksons confirmation hearing in 2022, Cruz and Umphress fellow Texan, GOP Sen. John Cornyn, went down this road again. He claimed Obergefell inevitably set in conflict between those who ascribe to the Supreme Courts edict and those who have a firmly held religious belief that marriage is between a man and a woman.

Of course, as most people understand, thats simply not true. No one, absolutely no one, is required to support marriage equality. They are instead required to respect other peoples rights to live in peace and, depending on the local law, to not discriminate in public places or public services. The right to believe what you want remains unmolested. But the Christian right has spent decades redefinining disagreement as persecution. They believe they are entitled to control public opinion, or they are being oppressed.

Part of the problem is that Christian conservatives feel, with good reason, their ideas simply cannot compete in the court of public opinion. That is certainly the case with same-sex marriage, of which 68% of Americans currently approve, despite decades of Christian conservatives claiming it would be the downfall of society. (According to Gallup, the highest approval rating was 71% in 2023; approval among Republicans has dropped 14% since 2022.)

But just because the pro-LGBTQ side has better arguments doesnt mean they have an unfair advantage. Both sides of this debate had an equal opportunity to express their views. If anything, the right had an unfair advantage because they had so much more money behind their cause  and centuries of sexual shame to back them up. Lashing out like this now is simply being a sore loser. Unfortunately, its childish behavior that could lead to a serious loss of a vital human right.

The post The Christian right claims marriage equality is persecution appeared first on Salon.com.
First Liberty Senior Counsel Jeremy Dys (left) speaks about Arkansas' Ten Commandments law as the law's lead sponsors Sen. Jim Dotson (center) and Rep. Alyssa Brown listen. Behind them are Rep. Harlan Breaux and Sen. Dan Sullivan. (Photo by Sonny Albarado/Arkansas Advocate)

Backers of Arkansas law requiring public display of the Christian commandments asserted Tuesday that the law is constitutional and based on historical tradition rather than religion.

A federal judge in Fayetteville on Aug. 4 temporarily blocked enforcement of Act 573 of 2025 in a lawsuit brought by parents of public schoolchildren in Northwest Arkansas school districts. The ruling affects only Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville and Siloam Springs schools.

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Pine Bluff schools put up posters of the Decalogue donated by local ministers on Aug. 5, the day the law took effect, The Pine Bluff Commercial reported. The website of RestoreAmericanSchools, a group that supplies Ten Commandment posters for schools, says 288 Arkansas schools have been adopted by donors.

At a press conference in the state Capitols Old Supreme Court room Tuesday, the laws principal sponsors  Sen. Jim Dotson, R-Bentonville, and Rep. Alyssa Brown, R-Heber Springs  told a small gathering that Act 573 remains in effect elsewhere in Arkansas. They and other speakers encouraged people to donate to a campaign to place posters of the Ten Commandments in public schools and buildings.

You cannot separate the history of our nation and the founding of our laws and justice system from the Ten Commandments, Brown said. We stand behind this law and believe it will be upheld in a higher court.

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Other speakers Tuesday repeated the message that the Ten Commandments traditionally have been displayed in public spaces and schools and that only since the 1980s have U.S. Supreme Court rulings chipped away at that tradition.

David Barton, a Texas political activist and founder of the conservative Christian organization Wallbuilders, said a 2019 Supreme Court ruling changed the criteria for determining whether Christian symbols and monuments violated the Constitution. In that case, Barton said, the high court shifted to presuming constitutionality if it could be shown to be historical and traditional.

Jeremy Dys, senior counsel with religious freedom legal group First Liberty Institute, also talked about the 2019 high court ruling, saying the burden of proof now rests upon those who want to take down public displays of religious symbols to show how the memorials and monuments are out of step  with American history, with our traditions as a country.

Dys said the Aug. 4 decision by U.S. District Judge Timothy Brooks was exactly backwards from what the Supreme Court said in the American Legion case.

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Brooks ruling noted that Arkansas law is most likely  [a] part of a coordinated strategy among several states to inject Christian religious doctrine into public-school classrooms. These states view the past decade of rulings by the Supreme Court on religious displays in public spaces as a signal that the Court would be open to revisiting its precedent on religious displays in the public-school context.

But, Brooks said, the Supreme Court 45 years ago struck down a state law nearly identical to Arkansas law. That precedent remains binding, he wrote, until the Supreme Court puts its foot down.

Education news outlet The 74 reported last month that a data analysis of 28 bills similar to Arkansas law exposes how their language, structure and requirements are inherently identical. In dozens of instances, they match model legislation pitched by Barton verbatim.

At Tuesdays press conference, Patriot Mobile CEO Glenn Story presented a framed copy of a Ten Commandments poster to Secretary of State Cole Jester. Patriot Mobile describes itself as a Christian conservative wireless provider and was one of about 20 organizations whose logos were displayed with Ten Commandments posters at the press conference.

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Former NBC News host Chuck Todd called out Democrats on Tuesday and accused them of "taking the bait" in their response to the Republican redistricting efforts.

"They're taking the bait. They've decided the only way to fight is to act just as ruthlessly. Revenge redistricting in Illinois, New York, California. And they tell themselves it's self-defense. But in reality, it's exactly what Trump wants, to make his opponents play his illegal and immoral game by his rules in his universe," Todd said during his show, "The Chuck ToddCast."

The journalist also suggested Tuesday that the U.S. was headed toward a "cold civil war" amid the ongoing redistricting battles.

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"And here we are. It's the political version of the old saying, when you get into the mud with a pig, you both get dirty and the pig likes it. Replacing, and don't give me this crap, rationalize that, you know, he's a bad mob boss, you've got to do whatever you say, 'We'll be a good mob boss.' The answer is no mob bosses at all," he said.

Former Democratic Advisor Says Party's Rhetoric On Redistricting Is Getting 'A Little Out Of Control'

Former Moderator Chuck Todd appears on "Meet the Press" in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023.

Beto O'Rourke, a former Democratic Texas Senate candidate, called for the Democratic Party to be "ruthless" in their pursuit of power and endorsed partisan gerrymandering last month.

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Todd also rejected comparisons to 1930s Germany.

"Look, I don't like the lazy comparisons to 1930s Germany. I hate the quote second civil war predictions. I'd like to believe that we're a lot better than that," he said during his podcast.

He also referenced Godwin's Law and summarized it by saying: "If you can't make your point without invoking the Nazis, then you're probably not very good at debating and making your point."

Ex-nbc News Host Chuck Todd Laments Democratic Party A 'Collection Of People That Don't Like Trump'

Democratic lawmakers and members of the media have repeatedly compared Trump and his administration to 1930s Germany.

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Todd went on to argue that it was "uncomfortable" to see mistakes being made "from the 1850s."

"But let's be honest, it's a bit uncomfortable seeing how many mistakes from the 1850s, from 1850s America or pre-war Europe in the early 1930s are happening again right here. The normalization of the unacceptable. The rationalizing of just this once well breach our principle.' 'Just this once we'll do this because it's in the name of something bigger and better,'" he said.

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"The founders gave us these tools to prevent this. They feared a king. They feared a united majority trampling on the rest of us. They didn't imagine leaders who would just refuse to use the tools. They didn't. They'd come back here and be appalled," Todd continued.





Original article source: Chuck Todd warns that Dems are falling into Trumps trap, 'taking the bait' on redistricting
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Miss Jackie Buyckes is in the T-Zone, also known as the Transition Zone. Its a youth program that supports kids planning for their futures through entrepreneurial training.

Summer interns say their teacher is the GOAT

Shariel Guthrie says, Miss Jackie changes lives by helping the kids shape their futures.

Both women are members of Destiny Life Church, and to surprise her with a $400 Pay it Forward gift card, Guthrie asked Miss Jackie to meet her in the church hall to talk about something.

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To nominate someone unrelated to you, 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
The Cincinnati police union is firing back as local leaders are calling for the prosecution of several White individuals involved in the viral downtown assault that led to six people being injured in late-July.

The citys Fraternal Order of Police released a statement defending the departments investigation of the violent beatdown, while condemning city leaders demands that additional arrests be made.

"Cincinnati Police investigators have worked tirelessly to gather all of the facts, meet with prosecutors and sign appropriate charges to ensure those involved will be brought to justice," Ken Kober, president of Queen City Lodge #69, said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Efforts have been made by politicians to influence the outcome of the investigation for their own gain. It's wildly inappropriate. There's no place for political games in law enforcement."

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Cincinnati Leaders 'Demanding Prosecution' Of White Man In Viral Street Fight

The union previously noted the White individuals involved in the fight have been identified as "victims," according to WKRC 12.

The development comes after Ohio state Rep. Cecil Thomas spoke out at a public discussion Monday to discuss concerns over the citys handling of the investigation into the fight, WLWT reported .

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"The video speaks for itself," Thomas said, according to the outlet. "The method by which this situation has been handled raises serious questions as to whether there is bias involved in this investigation. It also brings into question the lack of integrity and whether there is something else to hide."

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The Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office declined Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Suspects in the case are expected to be arraigned in court on Thursday.

Seventh Cincinnati Assault Suspect Arrested Over Violent Beatdown

The comments are in response to a July 26 beatdown on the corner of Fourth and Elm streets that quickly went viral, sparking national outrage and putting pressure on Cincinnatis leadership to address safety concerns.

Additional footage of the assault obtained by WLWT shows the unidentified White man allegedly hitting a Black man in the face, leading to several others joining in on the beatdown that ultimately led to seven arrests.

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A separate video obtained by Fox News Digital revealed another angle of the moments before the fight, in which a White man can be heard repeatedly using a racial slur toward the group before the physical altercation began.

Cincinnati Brawl Timeline: Brutal Assault Spirals Into National Firestorm

The viral incident has sparked racial tensions within the city as all seven arrested individuals are African American.

Last week, a grand jury indicted Patrick Rosemond, 38, Jermaine Matthews, 39, Montianez Merriweather, 34, DeKyra Vernon, 24, Dominique Kittle, 37, and Aisha Devaughn, 25, on three counts of alleged felonious assault, three charges of assault and two charges of aggravated rioting, the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office confirmed to Fox News Digital.

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If convicted , they would each face the possibility of up to 29 years in prison.

A seventh individual, 32-year-old Gregory Wright, was arrested Monday afternoon and is facing charges of alleged aggravated riot and aggravated robbery, according to the Hamilton County Jail.

Cincinnati Viral Beating Bodycam Released As Suspects Face New Charges In Grand Jury Indictment

The corner of Fourth and Elm Street outside LoVe, a local nightclub, where the beating took place, as seen on July 28, 2025, in Cincinnati.

"It's a powder keg, it's a powder keg," Carl Lewis, the attorney for Wright, said during his clients arraignment on Monday, according to WKRC 12.

Lewis reportedly was referring to the high-tension situation unfolding in the community following the beatdown.

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"If, in fact, you start out with the narrative that they're 'victims' just based upon what you've seen in a video, that's a problem," Lewis said.

Lewis did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Cincinnati Viral Beating Victim Says Violent Mob Started Attacking Like A Pack Of Wolves

WATCH: Viral Cincinnati attack victim speaks out amid recovery from violent beating

The potentially explosive situation forced Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge Tyrone Yates to request additional security during Wrights arraignment, WKRC 12 reported.

"Can we send a couple of deputies to the outside to make sure that while I conduct this hearing, everyone understands that everyone is to be cool, to keep their cool," Yates said.

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Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Kearney also reportedly weighed in on the criticism.

"The actions of the White people involved appear to be the proximate cause of the violence, and they should be charged," Kearney said, according to WKRC 12. "We should push for justice and not turn against each other."

Kearney did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.





Original article source: Cincinnati police union blasts 'political games' as leaders call for prosecution of White man in viral assault
Cindy Myrex won the Republican nomination for the House District 12 special election on August 12, 2025. She will face Democratic nominee Matthew Glover on Oct. 28 to fill the Cullman County seat in the Alabama House of Representatives. (Photo courtesy of Cindy Myrex)

Cindy Myrex, a Smith Lake realtor, won the Republican nomination Tuesday for the House District 12 special election.

Voters in Cullman County chose Myrex, 58, over 47-year-old Cullman City Councilman Clint Hollingsworth. As of 8:35 p.m., Myrex had 3,048 votes (58.5%), while Hollingsworth received 2,160 votes (41.5%) in unofficial results. In the primary on July 15, Myrex got 49.8% of votes and Hollingsworth got 43.2%. About 4,300 people voted in the July primary, while about 5,200 voted in the runoff Tuesday, a turnout of about 15%.

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Messages seeking comment from Myrex and Hollingsworth were left Tuesday evening.

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Myrex campaigned on listening to constituents, improving mental health care in public schools and economic growth. Voters told Myrex they were concerned about a new state law that would allow the city of Cullman, a wet city, to annex land from Cullman County, a dry county, for a community development project to serve alcohol.

The law drew criticism from Democratic and Republican candidates in this election and the House District 11 election, scheduled for Aug. 26. Cullman County did not have representation in the House after Harbison resigned in April and Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview, resigned in February to work for Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman.

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Gudger, who co-sponsored the legislation, pre-filed a bill on Aug. 1 to repeal the law, which goes into effect on Oct. 1. Myrex supports the repeal bill, which would not go into effect until it goes through the legislature in January.

According to campaign finance records, Myrex raised $151,235.69 and spent $120,132.59. Most of Myrexs fundraising came from her own money and businesses. Hollingsworth raised $182,878.34 and spent $164,728.51. Almost two thirds of his donations came from political action committees (PACs), where the SV&B and SVBII PACs donated the most at $14,000 between two separate PACs that are operated by the same consulting firm: Swatek, Vaughn and Bryan.

Myrex will face Democratic nominee Matt Glover, a 40-year-old former Good Hope City councilman, on Oct. 28. Glover said in a phone interview Tuesday that he is hoping to debate Myrex before the general.

Im looking forward to getting more of the issues Ive been talking about out there, and hopefully have the opportunity to get her view on those things, Glover said.

This story was updated at 9:25 p.m. with comments from Democratic nominee Matthew Glover.
BLUEFIELD  City residents are being provided one last chance to provide input into Bluefields comprehensive plan.

City Manager Cecil Marson said citizens are being asked to attend a meeting today at 6 p.m. at the Bluefield Arts Center where they will have a chance to learn more about the document and offer suggestions for Bluefields future.

This is kind of our last informal stab at the comprehensive plan for the city, Marson said during Tuesdays city board meeting. So I highly encourage folks to come at 6 oclock, and this is really the road map of where were going and what we want to accomplish in the city to get to move forward and really its our contract for the board, for the city manager, and the community as to where were going over the next five years.

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The city has already received some solicited feedback from the community on the plan, and todays meeting will be another opportunity for citizens to provide input into Bluefields future, according to Marson.

And then were going to start to get into the formalized process where it gets brought to the board, the planning commission ratifies it and then there will be a public hearing and then well move forward, Marson said. But this is one last chance before we start the formalized process for folks to give feedback. So I highly encourage everybody in the community to come because this is our plan. This is not just the boards plan or the city managers plan. This is Bluefields plan. The citys plan to be great.

The comprehensive plan was one of several items discussed Tuesday by the Bluefield Board of Directors, who also approved new rules regarding the launching of fireworks in the city limits and a proclamation honoring the life of the late Alphonso Al Hancock. The board also discussed the All Stars Community award that was presented to the city last week by the West Virginia Municipal League.

Marson said the citizens of Bluefield played a key role in the receipt of the All Stars Community honor.

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This is a huge honor for the city of Bluefield, Marson said. We were up in Morgantown last week, and Im not exactly sure when the last time Bluefield was recognized, but I think what it (the award) really highlights is the board here, the employees working in the city and quite frankly the citizens that are the collective of everybody here trying to get our city built up, and Southern West Virginia. It is a recognition of that effort.

As part of the award, the municipal league recognized the citys success in recent years in securing more than $56 million in grant funding for projects relating to infrastructure, recreation and other community improvement efforts.

We have been extremely successful the last couple of years bringing in outside funds to do all these big projects, the road projects with Safe Streets for All, the splash pad, the playground, the upgrades to Mitchell Stadium, the new signage, the websites, and everything you see on social media platforms, Marson said.

All of those efforts make Bluefield a more attractive place to live, work and start a business, according to Marson.

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That was a recognition of all those efforts, Marson said. So Im extremely grateful to our volunteer citizens  all the citizens that serve on the boards.

The board also passed a resolution Tuesday honoring the late Alphonso Al Hancock, a veterans advocate who lived in Bluefield and led a long fight to secure a veterans clinic for Mercer County.

The proclamation honoring Hancock was read by Vice Mayor Pete Taylor and was approved on a 3-0 vote with Mayor Ron Martin and board member Daniel Wells absent.

According to the proclamation, Hancock was a decorated veteran who was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force after serving 23 years, including two tours of Vietnam as well as other postings around the world until he retired in 1979. Hancock later returned home to McDowell County where he taught school for 14 years. In more recent years, Hancock was directly responsible for obtaining a veterans clinic for Mercer County, which continues to serve local veterans from across the region to this very day.

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He was a great man, Marson said. Peter alluded to it in the proclamation about getting you know a really, really important veterans clinic in our area, which is a very nice facility. So we are extremely appreciative. All of us in our community owe Mr. Hancock a debt of gratitude for his commitment.

In other business, the board approved the second reading of an ordinance Tuesday setting more stringent guidelines regulating the usage of fireworks in the city limits.

Board member Treyvon Simmons asked if the new ordinance was modeled after other municipalities across the state, and City Attorney David Kersey said it was.

The new ordinance includes a number of restrictions, and states that no one under the influence of alcohol can discharge fireworks; anyone launching fireworks must be 18 years of age or older; anyone who launches fireworks must remove all of the debris left behind and will be responsible for the clean-up as well as any fire suppression costs; no fireworks can be launched within 100 feet of any building; all fireworks must be secured in a safe, responsible and secure manner; fireworks cant be launched from a vehicle; fireworks cant be discharged in the vicinity of any house, building or gas station; and fireworks cant be launched during periods of high fire danger as determined by the Bluefield Fire Department.

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Richard Catron, a citizen who attended Tuesdays meeting, asked what distance restrictions between dwellings applied to the new ordinance.

Im thinking about safety that time of year, Catron said. And how close are you supposed to be to the neighbors?

So responding to Mr. Catron this new ordinance prohibits the detonation of fireworks within 100 feet of a building and structure unless permission was obtained from that person, Kersey said.

Contact Charles Owens at

cowens@bdtonline.com
The City of Canton will be honoring veterans on custom-designed banners displayed on light poles throughout the downtown area leading up to Veterans Day.

The Banners for the Brave program honors retired or honorably discharged members of the United States military who live in the City of Canton, or formerly resided in Canton and have died.

Applications will be accepted through Sept. 19. The banners will be displayed from Oct. 6 through Nov. 14, 2025.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Banners can be sponsored by individuals or organizations. The cost of each banner is $100 or $25 to rehang a banner purchased in the 2024 program.

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A high-resolution JPG or PNG digital image (600 dpi or greater) is preferred for use on the banner.

For more details and to apply, visit https://www.cantonga.gov/our-city/banners-for-the-brave/.

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GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA)  The Greenville City Council is currently debating a proposed ordinance that would prohibit camping in public spaces, a move that has sparked concern among advocates for the homeless.

Councilmember John DeWorken introduced the ordinance after receiving numerous concerns from constituents about people camping on city streets and plazas. The proposed ordinance, which has not yet had its first reading, would prevent individuals from making beds with sleeping bags or blankets in public areas.

I sent an email out to about 3,000 of my constituents, Deworken said. In 72 hours, I received 300 plus emails, of which 80% said, yes, we should have a camping ordinance.

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The proposed ordinance has drawn mixed reactions from the community. Some business managers, like Jonathon Wood of A. Smith Clothiers, support the measure, believing it could help create safer environments for everyone.

It seems like a good solution to try to get people in a place where they can be safer, Wood said.

However, others, such as Downtown Batman, a local advocate who provides food, water, and clothing to the homeless, argue that the ordinance could do more harm than good.

Where are they supposed to go? They have nowhere to go, which is why theyre here, he said.

Non-profits like Greenville Together would be involved in helping individuals affected by the ordinance find housing.

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Cody Carver from Greenville Together emphasized the importance of connecting people with services rather than focusing on enforcement.

We have a robust and responsive outreach team, Carver said. We want to connect them with services first, not enforcement first.

DeWorken emphasized that non-profits like Greenville Together would reach out and work with the individual that is caught making a bed to find them proper housing. He described it as a multi-faceted approach.

But, he also acknowledged that penalties for violating the ordinance are still being discussed.

Any ordinance to be effective will have some type of measure that is a penalty measure, he stated.

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The timeline for when the ordinance will be discussed again remains unclear, as no vote has been scheduled. The city plans to work closely with stakeholders and community members as the debate continues.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
City Institute, best known for its guided tours and educational programs about Detroit, is hosting its first suburban small business walking tour series in Mount Clemens, Dearborn, Berkley and Pontiac.

The tours are free and the next one will take place Saturday, Aug. 16 in Mount Clemens.

With the Mount Clemens tour, people will sometimes say, what's there? and the answer is a lot that people don't realize. said Jeanette Pierce, president of the City Institute. We're always driving by things, so getting out walking and seeing what's in our own backyard is great.

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Other upcoming tours will take place in Dearborn, Berkley and Pontiac. Here's a full schedule of the free downtown walking tours:

Mount Clemens: 1 p.m. Saturday Aug. 16 and 1 p.m. Saturday Sept. 20, start at Champagne Chocolates 65 Macomb Pl.

Berkley, 1 p.m. Saturday Aug 23, start at Ullman's Health and Beauty, 2816 Coolidge Hwy.

West Dearborn: 1 p.m. Saturday Sept. 6, start at Qahwah House, 22000 Michigan Ave.

Pontiac: 1 p.m. Saturday Sept. 27, start at Pontiac Transportation Museum, 250 W. Pike St.

The walking business tour series, sponsored by Visit Detroit, kicked off in West Dearborn in July. That tour visited small businesses along Michigan Avenue and West Village Drive, including Westborn Market, Black Box Coffee Shop & Art, L.A. Bistro, Turkish Village Cuisine and Galata Sweets.

People know Dearborn, or they think they do because they've been to Henry Ford Muesum which is an amazing asset, but don't always think about it as this small business hub of the region, said Jeanette Pierce, president of the City Institute. And that's one of the things that we want to make sure people realize.

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American Arab Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bilal Hammoud worked with City Institute to bring the tours to Dearborn.

Not only do we have hundreds of businesses and one of the highest concentration of small businesses in the state, but a rich culture history and something that when folks come to a city like this and get exposed to a community like this, they fall in love, Hammoud said.

Tour guides are local residents who are rooted in their community. Max Aghili, who has lived in Dearborn for 28 years and has guided tours for seven years, will lead the Dearborn tour.

Residents know what they hear in the news, whether it's good or bad, but they really have not experienced Dearborn, Aghili said. This gives them a chance to come and walk around with somebody who knows Dearborn.

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Since City Institute launched 20 years ago, its small business program has gained attention from cities across the country.

We have been doing this in Detroit since 2005 but in the last few years, other cities around the country were asking for our help, Pierce said. I've worked with El Paso, Chicago, Akron, Vegas, Portland and a whole list of places to bring tours like these to their cities.

In addition to its small business walking tours, City Institute also offers private tours for groups and companies year-round. Learn more at cityinstitute.com/public-tours.

I've had the pleasure of going on some of their guided tours before, Hammoud said. It's more than just exposure to local business. It's more than just that cultural component that you get to capture from the local culture, it's the history.

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Julia Roeder, a recent graduate of Grosse Pointe South High School and a rising freshman at Michigan State University, is a 2025 Detroit Free Press summer apprentice.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Free walking tours of Berkley, Dearborn Mount Clemens and Pontiac
The city of Terre Haute on Tuesday announced what its calling a strategic hiring freeze.

Mayor Brandon Sakbun in a news release said the move is intended to safeguard the citys fiscal health and its core services.

A hiring freeze will be in place across most departments, with exceptions for public safety roles, transit and seasonal positions.

Unlike a blanket freeze, the city says, this approach ensures services are not decreased for constituents and deliberate staffing reductions are to take place through attrition, not through mass layoffs.

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Today, I am announcing a necessary step to fiscal responsibility within our city, Sakbun wrote. Our 2024 budgets came in under budget, and the city has continued to grow our reserves for 2025 and beyond. Changes to the property tax formula enacted by the state legislature will begin to cripple the citys finances in 2027.

The majority of our capital projects are not funded by property taxes and will continue as planned.

Eight positions have already been consolidated through attrition via employee retirements and the city has canceled a number of costly private contracts. Employees have agreed to take on added responsibilities, the mayor said.

Sakbun added that property taxes bankroll the police and fire expenses.

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What I always get frustrated about is at the state level they say they want to help public safety, he said. Lets take a look at what they did this last session. They found a way to give businesses the largest tax break theyve received in decades, which lowers the fund for police and fire.

He added that the state legislature is sticking more on local governments plate with less to be able to fund it. The state also dramatically increased the cigarette tax and managed to not give that revenue to cities and towns. A lot of this is on their hands.

When you look at all the other departments and what we can do, theres very limited opportunities, Sakbun said. But he added that no layoffs are on the horizon: Thats a conversation for years from now, hopefully well never have it.

Sakbun said his administration has seen this day coming.

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From the second Senate Enrollment 1 was passed, we started planning that it was going to happen months ago, he said.

Aspects of this action highlighted by the city include:

 Exceptions for public safety and for transit: Police, fire, transit and emergency services continue uninterrupted hiring to preserve community protection.

 Departmental consolidation: The city has consolidated or streamlined several departments  wastewater utility, the street department, controllers office, mayors office, human relations and sewage billing. It says this reduces overlap and trims headcount.

 Legal catalyst: The citys action follows Indianas Senate Enrolled Act 1, which significantly cuts property tax revenues in future years, the primary funding source for municipalities.

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 Seasonal and part-time hiring is still in effect: Seasonal and part-time staff will continue to be hired to manage fluctuating workloads and ensure smooth operations.

 Fiscal responsibility and innovation: Although no new positions funded by property taxes are being created, certain non-reverting fund allocations are supporting new hires.

Additionally, the city says investments in technology and software are enabling the consolidation of roles and delivering efficiencies.

 Budget-neutral additions: New positions, where needed, are financed through non-reverting funds, meaning they do not impact the citys property tax-based general fund.

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According to the citys statement, it is preparing for a prolonged period of tighter budgets.

Through attrition and retirement, it has realigned staffing and is embracing technological innovations.

City services will not be reduced as a result of these cuts, the mayor said.

The easiest way to avoid any service reductions is to embrace growth and development, Sakbun said. We need to increase our housing stock, recruit additional companies, support current employers, and develop our community lot by lot.
TYLER, Texas (KETK) During the Tyler City Council meeting on Wednesday morning, the City Manager presented the proposed $219.3 million budget, highlighting improvements to public safety, streets, water utilities and more.

Tyler City Council approves resolution to add new path connecting parts of the city

After months of collaboration and planning, the annual budget was proposed during the City Council meeting, where City Manager Edward Broussard covered every aspect of the plan and how it would benefit the community.

Public safety remains our largest and most important investment, Broussard said

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Police department For the fourth year, the budget will fund the AXON taser and body camera replacement program. This keeps the technology current, replaces damaged equipment without large cash outlays and maintains the high level of accountability and safety our community expects.

Fire department For the ninth year, the budget will fund a self-contained breathing apparatus lease.

Animal shelter The second stage of the kennel upgrades will make cleaning faster and improve conditions for the animals.

Code enforcement The budget will continue to address commercial substandard structures, with $200,000 set aside to remove up to 15 buildings, making neighbors safer and more attractive for investment.



Tyler PD urges citizens to look out for potential scam phone calls

We are delivering on our promise to maintain and improve our streets, Broussard explained. In fiscal year 2026, we continue using two pennies of our property tax rate to fund maintenance of streets in Tyler.

Quality Street Commitment Funding Seal coat and crack seal projects: $1,493,818 Brick street repairs and maintenance: $869,722 Public alley repairs and maintenance: $165,000

Street Operations 12-yard dump truck Relocate a building from the old fairgrounds

Traffic Signal Maintenance Funding For the sixth year, the implementation of the Intelligent Traffic System (ITS) plan Increase maintenance funding per the ITS timeline



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Nightly road closures expected for Toll 49 in Tyler due to road enhancements

We are proposing 15.3 million in cash-funded water and wastewater capital improvements, Broussard said. An investment in the future reliability and safety of our system.

Water distribution: $2,367,732 Meter and meter boxes Service lines Downtown improvements

Water treatment: $2,692,554 Lake Palestine Water Treatment Plant Taste and odor engineering Gate Replacement

Wastewater collection: $3,977,486 Extensions Settlers Landing, Bass Pro Way, Construction TxDOT Utility Relocation, FM 756, Construction

Wastewater treatment: $5,367,827 WSWWTP Rehab Project

Lake Tyler: $100,000 Funding for the initial year of boathouse inspections



Tyler Water Utilities to begin testing water for taste, odor study

Budget timeline

There will be two upcoming public hearings about the budget and tax rate, with the first one being on Aug. 27 and the second on Sept. 10 where the City Council will vote on the budget and tax rate at the end of the meeting.

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Both meetings will be held in the City Council chambers at City Hall, located at 212 N. Bonner Avenue, and begin at 9 a.m.

To learn more about each aspect of the budget and tax rate, East Texans can watch the presentation on the City of Tyler Facebook or view the document below.

FILED-20252026-Combined-Budget-Financial-StatementsDownload

All Tyler residents are also welcome to attend the Comprehensive Plan Open House on Thursday, which provides an outlet for community members a chance to learn about the citys long-range plans and share ideas that will help guide growth and development over the next 20 years.

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This come-and-go event will be held on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Mayfair Building on 415 Fair Park Drive.

The Tyler Tomorrow Comprehensive Plan will serve as a roadmap through 2045, covering everything from housing and land use to transportation, economic development, and public infrastructure, the city said. It builds on the foundation of the Tyler 1st Comprehensive Plan from 2007 and related area plans, reflecting new data, new opportunities and the changing needs of the community.

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.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
This is an adapted excerpt from the Aug. 12 episode of Deadline: White House.

On Monday, President Donald Trump announced he would nominate E. J. Antoni to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Formerly the chief economist at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, Antoni is set to replace the previous BLS commissioner, Erika McEntarfer, whom Trump fired earlier after he claimed, without evidence, that she had rigged the data to reflect poorly on the administration.

Antonis appointment has ignited a concern among economists, who worry that the longtime skeptic of the bureau could do just the opposite, politicizing the agency in favor of the president. Antonis already suggesting suspending the monthly jobs report. But the truth is, its going to be hard for this guy just to make up numbers.

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Now, I assume Republicans in the Senate will lie down and confirm Antoni, even though hes not qualified, because this is what they do now: Republican senators confirm unqualified candidates for important jobs. But that doesnt mean he will have a green light to manipulate data.

It will be very interesting to see how the people inside the agency react to Antonis appointment. There are a lot of people who work at BLS who are what we call technocrats. When I was elected to serve as the state auditor of Missouri, that office was full of technocrats  people who had worked there for decades, who understood government auditing and had no political bias whatsoever. They were not trying to call anything other than balls and strikes, based on the facts and their own technical expertise.

Thats the essence of the BLS. Thats what the agency does. They analyze the data and then they report that data out. These people are professionals, theyre qualified, and I dont think most of them will stand by quietly if Antoni comes in and tries to make stuff up to flatter Trump. He has a rocky road ahead of him.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Two men are dead following a shootout that took place Tuesday night behind a restaurant in Clarksville.

According to the Clarksville Police Department, the shooting was reported at approximately 7:25 p.m. behind Mizu Japanese Cuisine in the 1500 block of Wilma Rudolph Blvd.

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Officers said they arrived at the scene to find a man with a gunshot wound. They performed CPR on the man until he was taken to Tennova Healthcare, where he was pronounced dead.

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At 7:35 p.m., a woman reported that someone who had been shot was on the way to her residence on Cabot Cove, according to the CPD.

At the womans home, officers found the wounded man and performed CPR until medical personnel arrived. Officials said he later died from his injuries.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee

On Wednesday, officials said a preliminary investigation indicates that the incident began as a planned meeting between two groups, which later escalated to a shootout.

Authorities reported one person from each group was struck by gunfire, resulting in their deaths. The victims have since been identified as 18-year-old Noah William Peterson and 24-year-old Makhi Charon Richardson, both from Clarksville.

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Detectives added that 20-year-old Havin John Lee James and 21-year-old Antario Jameer Hyrne were both charged with tampering with evidence and booked into the Montgomery County Jail.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Anyone with information about the deadly incident is asked to contact Detective DeJesus at 931-648-0656, ext. 5290. Callers can remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward by submitting tips to Clarksville-Montgomery County Crime Stoppers at 931-645-8477 or P3tips.com/591.

 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.

 Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.

 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
BELGRADE, Serbia (AP)  Clashes erupted between Serbian anti-government protesters and supporters for a second day Wednesday in a major escalation after more than nine months of persistent demonstrations against autocratic President Aleksandar Vucic.

The president's supporters repeatedly hurled flares at protesters in the northern city of Novi Sad, near the offices of Vucic's ruling Serbian Progressive Party. Protesters then smashed office windows as riot police were deployed outside to guard the building.

Interior Minister Ivica Dacic said at least one policeman was injured and called for the return of law and order.

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Thousands more gathered in other parts of the country, including the capital, Belgrade, where riot police used tear gas to disperse groups of anti-government demonstrators in one part of the city.

Riot police separated two opposing camps in the central town of Kraljevo. Demonstrations were also held in the central towns of Kragujevac and Cacak, and the southern city of Nis. There was no immediate word on whether there were injured protesters on Wednesday.

The student-led protests in Serbia first started in November after a train station canopy collapsed in Novi Sad, killing 16 people and triggering accusations of corruption in state infrastructure projects.

Protests have since drawn hundreds of thousands of people, shaking Vucics firm grip on power. His supporters have recently started organizing counterdemonstrations, fueling fears of violence.

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Pro-government media said that Vucic arrived on Wednesday evening to a camp of his supporters outside the presidency building in downtown Belgrade, in an apparent show of defiance. He described the anti-government protesters as thugs.

Wednesday's protests were organized in response to incidents on Tuesday evening in the northwestern town of Vrbas, where riot police separated protesters from the opposing camps outside the ruling party's offices.

Images from the scene in Vrbas showed government supporters throwing flares, rocks and bottles at the protesters, who hurled back various objects. Police said that dozens of people were injured, including 16 police officers. Similar incidents were reported at protests in other parts of the country on Tuesday evening.

Police said that several people were detained after the clashes in Vrbas. Police Commissioner Dragan Vasiljevic told state-run RTS television that the protesters came to attack the governing party supporters outside the party's offices.

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Vucic said at a news conference earlier on Wednesday with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker that pro-democracy protests in Serbia have been very violent and were violent last night."

Serbia's president, other government officials and pro-government media have repeatedly described the protesters as terrorists, though protests in Serbia since November have been largely peaceful.

Protesters have said that government supporters attacked them first in Vrbas and also further south in Backa Palanka and later in Novi Sad and the southern city of Nis. In Belgrade, riot police pushed away protesters who gathered in a downtown area.

Led by university students, the protesters are demanding that Vucic call an early parliamentary election, which he has refused to do. Protesting students have also called for the ouster of Dacic, the interior minister, over recent violence at demonstrations.

Serbia is formally seeking European Union membership, but Vucic has maintained strong ties with Russia and China. He has faced accusations of stifling democratic freedoms since coming to power 13 years ago.
ALEXANDRIA, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Louisiana State University at Alexandria is moving forward with plans for a 70,000-square-foot health education center downtown, backed by $1.4 million from Cleco.

The facility will expand training for nurses and allied health professionals, aiming to produce about 250 nursing graduates annually.

Cleco President and CEO Bill Fontenot said the investment supports both workforce and community growth. LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil called the partnership key to addressing the regions healthcare worker shortage.

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The project is part of a $43 million downtown revitalization effort.

LSUA, BPCC team up for disaster and emergency 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 KTALnews.com.
This story is a collaboration between Vox and Grist and builds on Expecting worse: Giving birth on a planet in crisis, a project by Vox, Grist, and The 19th that examines how climate change impacts reproductive health  from menstruation to conception to birth. Explore the full series here.

Climate change poses unique threats to some of the most foundational human experiences: giving birth and growing up. Thats the conclusion of a recent summary report compiled by researchers at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, which shows that climate change is exposing tens of millions of women and children to a worsening slate of physical, mental, and social risks  particularly if they live in the poorest reaches of the globe.

Extreme heat, malnutrition linked to crop failures, and air pollution caused by the burning of fossil fuels are driving higher rates of preterm birth and infant and maternal death, undermining many countries efforts to improve public health. Already, 1 billion children experience a level of risk that the report characterizes as extreme.

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Were still just beginning to understand the dangers, the authors wrote in their review of the limited existing scientific literature on the subject, but the problem is clearly enormous.

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways:

Extreme heat is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and newborns.

High temperatures are linked to premature births, stillbirths, low birth weight, and congenital defects, the report said, pulling from a study conducted by Drexel University researchers in Philadelphia who found that, for every 1.8 degrees that the citys daily minimum temperature rose above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the risk of infant death grew about 22 percent.

Whatever associations were seeing in the U.S. are much, much greater in other areas, particularly the areas of the world that are most impacted by heat and then also already impacted by adverse birth outcomes, said Rupa Basu, chief science advisor for the Center for Climate Health and Equity at the University of California, San Francisco.

A line of pregnant women in white shirts carry a sign that says "stop burning our babies' futures."

This is the tip of the iceberg, added Basu, who was not involved in the new report.

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Heat waves also raise the odds of early birth by 16 to 26 percent, according to the report, and women who conceive during the hottest months of the year are at higher risk of developing preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication that can become dangerous if left untreated.

In The Gambia, where 70 percent of the agricultural workforce is female, a survey of pregnant farmers conducted by London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine researchers found that women were being exposed to conditions that overwhelmed their capacity to regulate their internal temperatures 30 percent of the time. Up to 60 percent of women exhibited at least one symptom of heat stress and heat-related illness, such as vomiting and dizziness. Diagnostic tests showed that a third of pregnant farmers showed signs of acute fetal strain.

Air pollution is a silent killer.

The burning of fossil fuels  and a related surge in wildfires burning over the earths surface  are likely linked to a staggering proportion of low birth weight cases globally: 16 percent, according to the report. Thats because the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas produces tiny toxic molecules, and wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter that is infamous for causing a slew of adverse health effects. At least 7 million children in the U.S. are exposed to wildfire smoke every year, and that number is rising quickly as rising temperatures have driven a doubling of extreme wildfire activity worldwide over the past 20-some years. In 2010, researchers linked 2.7 to 3.4 million preterm births around the world to air pollution exposure.

Risky, sublethal effects of air pollution are also coming into focus, the report continues. One study conducted using data on 400,000 births in southern California found that a womans exposure to fine particulate matter during pregnancy may increase her odds of spontaneous preterm birth by 15 percent, especially if that exposure happens during the second trimester.

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Mothers may face mental health burdens as a result of air pollution, too: The odds of postpartum depression rose 25 percent in women exposed to a range of different types of air pollution in their second trimester.

Climate change is already causing serious and measurable harm to children.

One billion children worldwide are at extremely high risk from the effects of climate change  meaning they live in areas prone to sudden, disruptive environmental shocks and already experience high levels of poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to medical infrastructure. The African continent, which is home to countries with some of the highest mortality rates for children under 5 years old in the world, saw a 180 percent increase in flooding between 2002 and 2021. And a study of 37 African countries published last year identified a steep rise in infant mortality due to drowning and waterborne diseases caused by flooding in the past five years. (Exposure to repeated flooding can overwhelm sewage systems and contaminate drinking water supplies with fecal matter and other pollutants that can lead to disease.)

Climate-driven drought in Africa is contributing to another adverse health outcome: malnutrition. Since 1961, climate change has led to a 34 percent decrease in agricultural productivity across the continent, according to the report. A deadly cycle of drought and flooding has wiped out crop yields, contributing to stubbornly high rates of infant malnutrition in many sub-Saharan African countries.

These problems will get worse, but how much worse depends on how much global emissions continue to rise.

The report modeled what different emissions scenarios would mean for maternal and child health in two countries: South Africa and Kenya. In a low emissions scenario, in which average warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius  or 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit  globally, childhood mortality in both countries would decline between 2040 and 2059, thanks in large part to projected gains in safeguarding public health that are already in the works. Those gains, however, are predicated on sustained aid from developed countries like the U.S., which have produced the lions share of emissions driving the climate crisis. The Trump administration has made seismic changes to Americas international funding infrastructure in recent months, including effectively eliminating the United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, and its related aid programs.

Mothers and their children line up for nutrition assistance in Uganda.

A medium emissions scenario, where average global temperatures increase by 2.5 degrees to 3 degrees Celsius, would override that expected progress, leading to a 20 percent increase in child mortality rates in South Africa and stable rates in Kenya, where there has been much investment in protecting child health. Preterm birth rates in both countries would also rise substantially even with low rates of planetary warming. Worldwide, climate-driven malnutrition could lead to an additional 28 million underweight children over the next 25 years.

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Regardless of which emissions path the world ends up following, a shift toward a more isolationist approach among the worlds richest countries threatens to exacerbate the risks pregnant women and children already face. As the planet continues to warm, those risks will keep multiplying.

We dont have to wait for global warming to stop to save lives.

Much can be done to prevent suffering right now. Solutions range from straightforward to complex: City planners can plant more trees in urban areas to keep pregnant people and children, whose internal systems are prone to overheating, cool. Organizations can identify ways to get public health data from the most underresourced parts of the globe. And nations can take steps to incorporate maternal and child health into their climate plans.

Such shifts are achievable, and there are precedents. Since 2013, for example, local air pollution strategies in Chinese megacities have been forcing rates of respiratory illness down dramatically, an echo of what happened in the U.S. after the passage of Clean Air Act amendments in 1970. To combat climate-driven harm today, nations can direct resources to maternal health wards, cooling technologies for buildings, and flood-resistant infrastructure. They can also update building codes to make sure hospitals and other health facilities are keeping their patients safe from extreme weather events. Getting nutritional supplements to pregnant people in countries dealing with high rates of food insecurity can offset some of the dangers of malnutrition; researchers have found that reducing vitamin deficiency in pregnant mothers slashed neonatal mortality by nearly 30 percent.

In Philadelphia, city leaders implemented a $210,000 early warning system for extreme heat in 1995. It saved the city nearly $500 million in diverted costs over its first three years of operation. The new report argues that more cities in the U.S. and around the world should implement similar measures.

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The best method of ensuring that mothers and children are shielded from the health consequences of climate change, according to the reports authors, is for countries to undertake aggressive climate adaptation plans and integrate maternal and child health considerations into those plans. Because, when it comes to climate change, the reports authors write, the crisis is already upon us.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline How climate change endangers mothers and children on Aug 13, 2025.
CLINTON COUNTY, N.Y. (ABC22/FOX44)  Four projects in Clinton County to share services and improve efficiency in government have led to nearly $200,000 in awards, said the New York Department of State (NYDOS) on Tuesday.

The awards are meant to match the amount of money saved for local taxpayers within the first year of each project. They are part of the County-Wide Shared Service Initiative (CWSSI) program passed by New York in 2017.

Siena poll: Hochuls lead over Stefanik shrinks in New York

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The largest award was given to the Town and Village of Dannemora for their decision to share emergency medical services, and totaled $124,960.

Clinton County is bringing municipalities to the table taxpayers can benefit from both short- and long-term tax savings and from good governance, said New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley.

Billy Jones to take post at Clinton Community College

Three other projects involving partnerships between the Town of Champlain, Village of Champlain, and Village of Rouses Point also merited awards from the program.

CWSSI only provides awards for projects submitted up through 2023, but NYDOS said they hope local governments will continue working together to share services and save taxpayers money. More information about the program is available on its webpage.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Tuesday was a chance for people in Uptown Charlotte to spend some casual time with police and other first responders.

The annual National Night Out event brought neighbors together at Victoria Yards near The Market at 7th Street. In between the music and grilling, there were some more serious conversations going on.

Fred Roy, who lives in Uptown, spent time talking with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office representatives.

Its great, Roy said. Have conversations with them, share your views on whats going on, like the panhandling and the homeless. You talk to them about these things.

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CMPD Capt. Christian Wagner said the relaxed setting is important for fostering open conversations.

If you get to meet me today and youre a resident in 4th Ward and youre like, Ok, youre my captain, this is the problem Ive got,' Wagner said.

He says officers want that kind of relationship with the community because they rely on people to be their eyes and ears.

Were trying to get to know each other, and we want to partner to prevent crime, Wagner said. Thats been our mission forever.

Wagner said CMPD hears the concerns about crime in Uptown and is working to address them.

Theres added urgency after a man was killed in a mass shooting last month outside some Uptown nightclubs.

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We have worked with the bars and club owners and property owners to create a safer environment in Uptown, Wagner said. They have hired secondary employment officers to fortify the officers we already have assigned. Weve pulled in officers from other areas.

Charlotte Center City Partners co-hosted the National Night Out. CEO Michael Smith said safety is not a destination, but a commitment.

We have a very safe city and the numbers bear that out, but what weve seen this summer is not to our standards, he said.

Violent crime in the city is down significantly, but perception doesnt always shift easily.

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When I first came here, it was nice and quiet, Roy said. Now it seems to be getting worse. Lot of shootings going on. Its very concerning. I may have to move.

MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM

Charlotte

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
CNNs chief data analyst Harry Enten on Tuesday said residents in Washington, D.C., are totally not on board with President Donald Trumps plan to take over the police force in the nations capital, where violent crime rates are dropping.

I think theres some idea out there that Trumps somehowaconqueringhero. But hes, in fact, as welcomed in Washington, D.C. as Eagles fans are Commanders games, Enten told CNNs Jessica Dean.

Trump flooded a press conference with false claims Monday to defend his plans to deploy 800 National Guard troops and federalize police in Washington.

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Enten flagged how 71% of D.C. residents indicated that Trump was too involved in local issues while 11% of those wanted him more involved in local affairs prior to Mondays presser, according to a Washington Post-Schar School survey conducted from mid-April to early May.

A majority of every demographic tested by the Post also believed Trump was too involved, per Enten.

D.C. residents hate, hate, hate this whole idea of Trump getting involved in local issues, he stressed.

While 36% of residents in the nations capital found that crime, violence and guns were the top problem facing Washington in 2022, that figure dropped to 21% in 2025.

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About 50% of D.C. residents indicated that crime was an extremely/a very serious problem this year, a drop from 65% the year prior.

So, D.C. residents, like the crime statistics themselves, suggest that crime is becoming less of an issue in our nations capital, Enten said.

Of all the counties and county equivalents nationwide, Trump fared the worst in D.C. during the 2024 election, taking in just 6.5% of the vote, Enten noted.

They hate Donald Trump. They hate Republicans. Over and over again they have voted against Donald Trump, voted against Republicans, he said of D.C. residents.

And again, on the crime issue, thats so important, a smaller and smaller percentage going down, down, down believe it is the top problem in our nations capital.

Related...
Politicians from the opposition slammed the postponement of the vote to extend emergency call-up orders for reservists.

The vote in the KnessetsForeign Affairs and Defense Committee on extending emergency call-up orders (known as Tzav 8 orders) for reservists was postponed on Wednesday because the coalition was unable to come up with a majority.

Politicians from the opposition slammed the postponement of the vote to extend emergency call-up orders for reservists.

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Opposition leader Yair Lapid (Yesh Atid) criticized the government for allowing it to increase the burden on reservists by blocking the proposal to extend emergency call-up orders.

The coalition once again has no majority. In Israel, there is a non-functioning and illegitimate minority government, Lapid added.

Avigdor Liberman (Yisrael Beytenu) stated, We will not allow, on the one hand, hundreds of thousands of reservists to be called up again and again under emergency call-up orders (Tzav 8), and on the other hand, for the government to promote mass draft-dodging.

The issue of haredi conscription is causing high tensions throughout Israel

The postponement of the vote comes amid high tensions throughout the country on the issue of haredi (ultra-Orthodox) conscription to the IDF.

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The two haredi parties, Shas and United Torah Judaism, left the government in mid-July due to the fallout in negotiations over the previous proposal of a haredi conscription law.

The timing of the postponement of the vote also comes after a heated meeting discussing the new direction for the haredi conscription law at the Knessets Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Tuesday.

Brig.-Gen. Shai Tayeb, the IDFs representative at the meeting, spoke on the militarys lack of man-power.

Tayeb noted that even if the army's current goal of 4,800 new haredi recruits was met, this would still not suffice in terms of the armys needs.

Unfortunately, the rate of cooperation among the [haredi] population is very low, he said.
In 1991, Donald Trump filed for bankruptcy for the first time. He is said to have posed as his own publicist in a phone interview. He judged a Look of the Year modeling event, whose contestants reportedly included teenage girls as young as 14. His friendship with Jeffrey Epstein was still in bloom.

And the Soviet Union was on its last legs: 1991 was the year it would dissolve. It was also the last year the Russian city now known as St. Petersburg would be called Leningrad.

It was this time to which the presidents mind apparently strayed on Wednesday morning, when he accidentally referred to St. Petersburg by its former name in a social media post.

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Trump had taken to Truth Social to disparage the media for covering criticisms of his impending summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The choice to hold the meeting in Alaska had drawn critics, among them Trumps onetime national security adviser John Bolton, who told CNN: The only better place for Putin than Alaska would be if the summit were being held in Moscow. So the initial setup, I think, is a great victory for Putin.

The president reprimanded the press for reporting on this, and for constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like Bolton.

Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin, Trump said. So unfair, he wrote, that, if I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal!

Its unclear what freeing those cities would mean, even in the context of this hyperbolic hypothetical.

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Anyway, many observers were quick to note the Leningrad slipwhich, to be sure, was still not as egregious as a gaffe, also regarding the upcoming summit, that the president had made two days earlier, when he incorrectly stated twice that it was taking place in Russia. (If the presidents Wednesday post was a 34-year throwback to 1991, his Monday remarks turned back the clock over a century and a half, to when Alaska was still Russian territory.)

Also in Wednesday mornings Truth Social post, Trump wrote, The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!)offering a written example of his (usually verbal) tendency to weave, as the 79-year-old president likes to call his free-association-style rambling.
The Brief

In 2007, Nicole Alston's body was found in a burning bag with her hands, feet, and head missing.

Almost 18 years later, investigators have charged her former girlfriend with her murder along with stealing her identity.

The Fulton County District Attorney will hold a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the case and ask the public for more information.

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - Fulton County officials say they have made an arrest in what they are calling a "gruesome" cold case murder of a woman whose body was discovered in a burning bag on the side of a Troup County road.

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For years, authorities have been trying to figure out who killed 24-year-old Nicole Alston. Now officials say they are charging her former girlfriend with her murder.

Death of Nicole Alston

The backstory

On Dec. 6, 2007, Troup County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a suspicious black bag burning at the corner of Whitfield Road and Stitcher Road. Upon arrival, they found partially burned human remains with the hands, feet, and head missing. The case remained unsolved for years. Officials say they still have not found the missing body parts.

In early 2023, the case was reviewed, and DNA evidence was sent to Innovative Forensic Investigations in Virginia and Gene by Gene Laboratories in Texas for analysis. The results were then compared by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) crime lab. On Dec. 13, 2023, authorities confirmed the remains belonged to Alston, a 24-year-old whose last known residence was in Manhattan, New York.

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"The DNA match, it just kinda got the ball rolling, and then we got a name with it, and then we were able to contact the family who gave us information about where she went at that time," said Sgt. Stewart Smith of the Troup County Sheriff's Office told FOX 5 in 2023.

Angel Marie Thompson arrested

What we know

Investigators learned that Alston had left New York in 2007 to live in Atlanta with her girlfriend, Angel Marie Thompson, who was wanted in New York for theft and identity fraud at the time. Alstons family last heard from her around Thanksgiving of that year.

Further investigation revealed that after Alston's remains were discovered, Thompson began using Alston's identity to collect Social Security benefits, food stamps, and Section 8 housing under Alston's name for eight years. In 2015, when contacted by the Social Security Administration to requalify for benefits, Thompson resumed using her original identity. The estimated value of the fraud is around $200,000.

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On Aug. 19, 2023, Angel Marie Thompson was arrested and charged with concealing the death of Nicole Alston.

Angel Marie Thompson (Troup County Sheriff's Office).

Nearly two years later, jail records reveal that Thompson was arrested on Tuesday in Sandy Springs and charged with murder and two counts of identity theft.

The warrant for Thompson's arrest accuses Thompson of killing Alston by "homicidal violence by undetermined means," saying the cause of death was by "causing violence to her throat or head."

In the warrant, investigators say they believe Thompson was abusive to her girlfriends and killed Alston because she wanted to return to New York, which would have been a problem for Thompson due to her outstanding warrants.

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"The victim was receiving SSI, Food stamps, and HUD housing and was wanting to return to New York. The suspect may not have wanted to lose the financial support, so the victim was murdered and the suspect assumed her identity and continued to live as the victim," the warrant reads. "The suspect has received all financial benefits after the death and lived as the victim for eight years."

Work of a true sociopath

What they're saying

"They deserve some finality. They deserve the truth, and we're just lucky enough to find some facts to learn what happened to Nicole," Troup County investigator Clay Bryant said.

He described Austin's death as being the work of a "true sociopath."

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Detectives with the Sandy Springs Police say that the night the body was found, Thompson was on dating websites looking for new people to talk to. A month later, she was reportedly trying to rent the apartment they shared and sell their car.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis said this case was one of the most gruesome cases she had experienced in her 29 years working in law enforcement.

"She did not deserve this, and we're asking for the public's help today," Willis said.

Willis said that her office plans to charge Thompson with human trafficking offenses as well.

Nicole Alston's body was found in 2007. (FOX 5)

Sylvia Austin, the mother of the victim, said she never stopped looking for her daughter after she suddenly lost contact.

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"She didn't deserve this, and I wish I'd never let her come to Georgia," she said.

She described her daughter as "bubbly," saying that her smile was "infectious."

"She was the life of the party. She was happy, and through all of her trials and struggles, she always made everything seem OK. She was always the one people called on to talk to," she said.

She speculated that Thompson took advantage of her daughter due to her dyslexia and needed to have people drive her around.

Thompson remains in jail

What's next

Thompson remains in custody at the Fulton County Jail without bond.

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Officials say they plan to have an indictment by the end of October.

The Source

Information for this story was taken from a release by Fulton County District Attorney's Office, Fulton County Jail records, and previous FOX 5 reporting.
The Collin County Sheriffs Office announced two major drug busts  one of which was years in the making.

The sheriffs office announced a drug bust on August 12, which resulted in the arrest of a smuggler and the seizure of fentanyl, cocaine, and likely drug money. The same day, officers also arrested two suspects for smuggling large amounts of marijuana.

The North Texas Sheriffs Criminal Interdiction Unit (NTXCIU) performed both busts.

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The first operation took years, and helped bring back a violent offender from Mexico to face justice, according to a statement from the sheriffs office. NTXCIU also identified a suspected smuggler and seized a significant amount of suspected drug money, 30,000 fentanyl pills, and 18 kg of cocaine  enough to kill 15,000 people.

Because of these efforts and strong law enforcement partnerships, a drug trafficker, rapist, and murderer is headed toward federal prison, the sheriffs office posted.

Officers with NTXCIU also busted a large marijuana shipment on August 12.

This is another example of NTXCIUs dedication to stopping the flow of illegal drugs through Texas and keeping our communities safe, the sheriffs office posted.

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A representative from the sheriffs office told The Dallas Express she could not share any further information, especially since the first case is in federal court.

Mexico extradited 26 cartel leaders  including Los Cuinis cartel leader Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, aligned with the dangerous Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion  to the U.S. on August 13, as The Dallas Express reported at the time. This was part of a deal with the Department of Justice.

Authorities often use the DFW area to bring cartel leaders to justice, as NBC DFW reported. For years, federal officials have flown cartel leaders into McKinney National Airport, where they are brought before federal trial in Plano and Sherman.

Sheriffs from Collin, Grayson, Hunt, Parker, Rockwall, Smith, Tarrant, and Wise counties joined in 2018 to establish the NTXCIU, aiming to combat drug trafficking across the region, as The Dallas Express previously reported. They held a press conference last year, explaining how cartels are using the Dallas-Fort Worth area as a distribution center for narcotics.
(The Center Square)  Jay Collins, state senator representing the Tampa area, was appointed lieutenant governor of Florida on Tuesday by second-term Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Collins succeeds Jeanette Nunez. She was named interim president of Florida International University in Tallahassee in early February.

Collins seat in the Senate will be filled via special election called by the governor.

Jay Collins, DeSantis said on social media, a patriot who has dedicated his life to serving our country and delivering on conservative priorities, will be a great lieutenant governor. Together, we will keep Florida strong and keep delivering results for the people of our state.

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Collins, retired Army Green Beret, won his District 14 seat in the 2022 midterms and was planning to run for another four years in 2026. DeSantis is term-limited, and Collins could well be backed by him in a gubernatorial run.

Collins pledged to help DeSantis finish the mission and keep Florida strong.

Second-term Republican President Donald Trump has already given endorsement to U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds in the governors race. Former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, a Democrat, and former state Sen. Jason Pizzo, an independent, have also declared for the race.

DeSantis wife Casey and former Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz are also considered potential candidates.

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At a press conference in Tampa for the swearing in ceremony, DeSantis said, What I was looking for is someone that can be lieutenant governor that will help us deliver more wins for the people of Florida  and then also that is capable of serving and leading as governor, if that need were ever to arise.

Collins is praised for commitments to veterans, military families and national defense; law enforcement and public safety; combatting illegal immigration; educational freedom and curriculum; families, freedom and conservative values; and putting Florida first.

Hes known for overcoming homelessness as a teenager, and a military career that includes five years as a Green Beret using a prosthetic leg after an amputation.

Collins defeated Democrat Janet Cruz 54.6%-45.4% in 2022. Hes served on Senate committees for Agriculture; Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security; and Collective Bargaining. He was chairman of the agricultural panel.
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Colombians on Wednesday bid farewell to senator and presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay, who died more than two months after being shot during a political rally in the South American countrys capital.

Family, friends, members of Congress and a delegation of government officials from the United States honored Uribe, whose coffin was draped with Colombias flag. The 39-year-old died Monday in the hospital where he had been since the June 7 shooting. Thousands of mourners paid their respects Tuesday.

The bullets that took his life not only broke the hearts of his family, they reopened the fractures of a country that has yet to find peace, Senate President Lidio Garcia said, referring to Colombias long history of violence against politicians.

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Uribe had become one of the strongest critics of Colombias current government. In October, he joined the list of politicians seeking to replace Gustavo Petro, the first leftist to govern Colombia, in the May 2026 elections.

Petro and Vice President Francia Marquez on Wednesday said on social media that they would not attend Uribes funeral out of respect for his familys wishes.

We are not going not because we do not want to, we simply respect the family and avoid that the funeral of Senator Miguel Uribe is taken over by supporters of hate, Petro posted on X.

Uribe was shot three times, twice in the head, while giving a campaign speech in a park in a working-class Bogota neighborhood. Authorities have arrested six people, including the teenager they say shot him, but they have not determined who ordered the attack or why.

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The shooting, caught on multiple videos, alarmed Colombians who have not seen this kind of political violence against presidential candidates since Medellin drug lord Pablo Escobar declared war on the state in the 1990s.

Uribes mother, well-known journalist Diana Turbay, was among the victims in that period. She died during a police rescue after being kidnapped by a group of drug traffickers led by Escobar seeking to block their extradition to the U.S.

If my mother was willing to give her life for a cause, how could I not do the same in life and in politics? Uribe, who was 5 when his mother was killed, said in an interview with a Colombian news outlet last year.

After lying in state since Monday, Uribe's coffin, flanked by members of the presidential guard, was carried on foot from Congress to the Primate Cathedral of Colombia, located a few meters away in Bogotas iconic Plaza de Bolivar. His wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, accompanied the coffin with their 4-year-old son.

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To break up a family  to take a father's son, a wifes husband, a children's father  is the greatest act of evil that can exist, Tarazona said during the Eucharist.

A hearse then took Uribe through the streets of Bogota to the city's Central Cemetery. The cemetery is the oldest in the city and the final resting place of figures such as Liberal leader Luis Carlos Galan, who was shot dead in 1989 while giving a presidential campaign speech in Bogota.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Editors note: This story was updated to reflect Jose Barcos immigration status when he first arrived in the country and his familys history.

AURORA, Colo. (KDVR)  A Colorado combat war veteran who is being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Aurora is anxiously waiting to see if he will be deported to a country where his attorneys say he could be tortured.

That combat veteran came to this country legally when he was four years old and later served in the military, where he was awarded a Purple Heart. How much longer 39-year-old Jose Barco must stay at the ICE detention facility in Aurora is now in the hands of an immigration judge.

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Groups demand that Denvers Flock license plate cameras be turned off

That judge will decide whether Barco will be deported or have his removal deferred, according to Barcos attorney. That attorney and an advocate spoke after Barcos hearing at the detention center.

This is a punishment that could result in his indefinite detention, torture and potential loss of his life, Advocate Anna Stout said.

Barco came to the United States legally with his parents from Venezuela when he was four years old. He later joined the military and was stationed in Colorado Springs, and served two tours in Iraq, where he was injured in combat. He applied for citizenship status while deployed in 2006, but his representatives said his paperwork was lost.

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His representatives said his family fled Cuba and went to Venezuela after his father was exiled before coming to the United States as political refugees. Barco has no ties in Venezuela or Cuba, which his advocates say further puts him at an elevated risk if he were to be removed to either country, according to Stout.

The crux of this case is the fact that we shouldnt be here today. This should not be a U.S. veteran in removal proceedings because he should have been made a U.S. citizen as this country promised him when he went to war for us and when he fought for us and bled for us, Stout said.

After leaving the military, Barco served 15 years in prison for attempted murder, according to Stout and Barcos attorney.

ICE arrested him immediately after he was paroled. Barcos advocates and attorneys say they fear he will be deported to Venezuela or Cuba.

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Colorado congressional members visit ICE facility

Its unimaginable. He is being judged off one of his worst days instead of a lot of good things he had in the United States as far as serving the country, Barcos wife, Tia Barco, said.

His attorneys are asking that his deportation be deferred under a treaty designed to prevent torture. They say they fear he would be tortured because of his military service.

Attorneys say a better place might be a facility in Mexico, where he could get treatment for his PTSD and his past suicidal ideations. But the goal is to have him released in the U.S. until his future is more stable and secure.

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A judge could rule on this case any day now, according to his attorney.

FOX31 reached out to ICE for a comment on this story, but so far, we have not gotten 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 FOX31 Denver.
Eastern Cottontail rabbit, Sylvilagus floridanus, Rabbit with the papilloma virus (CRPV), or Shope papilloma virus. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Some rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, have been spotted with strange black, horn- or tentacle-like growths on their heads and faces. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) confirmed the cause: a virus known as Shope papilloma virus (SPV).

SPV is a naturally occurring papillomavirus that causes benign, wart-like tumors on rabbits, often appearing around the head and mouth. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson, Kara Van Hoose, told the Coloradoan that residents alerted her last week to rabbits showing signs of rabbit papillomavirus.

Eastern Cottontail rabbit, Sylvilagus floridanus, Rabbit with the papilloma virus (CRPV), or Shope papilloma virus. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Susan Mansfield told 9 News she saw a rabbit with black spines or "quills" around its mouth.

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"It looks like it was black quills or black toothpicks sticking out all around his or her mouth," Mansfield said. "I thought he would die off during the winter, but he didn't. He came back a second year, and it grew."

Despite their unusual appearance, these growths generally do not harm wild rabbits unless they obstruct the animals' eyes or mouths, affecting their ability to see, eat, or drink, CPW said.

Hera Is The Reason 



There are rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, that have been observed with horn-like , tentacles growths due to the Shope papilloma virus (SPV).



Here's a breakdown:



1. Shope Papilloma Virus (SPV): This is a real virus, specifically a papillomavirus, that... pic.twitter.com/nKYX0QT9d6  NO CONTEXT MEME (@ssmb291_) August 13, 2025

The virus is spread between rabbits by insect bites or direct contact, and can sometimes persist in local populations for years. Residents first noticed the growths in southeast Fort Collins, with some describing them as black quills or "toothpicks" protruding from the rabbits' faces.

"While it looks alarming, the virus does not harm people or pets," CPW said, urging the public to give infected rabbits space and avoid handling them.

The condition has been known since the 1930s and is relatively common among wild rabbits, but heightened sightings in Fort Collins have drawn attention due to the unusual appearance of the growths.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  A controversial proposal prohibiting camping on public property had its second reading at City Council, Tuesday. A few changes were made to the ordinance following public backlash. Council approved the amended camping ordinance in a 91 vote, with Councilor Cogle opposed.

Camping on public property remained prohibited, but the amendment gives people at least eight days after a written or oral warning to move. That same grace period applies before unattended property can be removed a change supporters say gives authorities more time to connect people with help.

Prior to the vote, United Ways Home for Good Vice President, Pat Frey briefed Council on the state of homelessness in Muscogee County.

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Were actually at the same number. We were a point in time 2016 and 2025, exact same number of 303. Said Frey, Weve had an increase in the number of families with minor children. 218% increase in that. And the rent for the residents of Columbus, Georgia, have gone up 43% just since 2022. I mean, that in itself should be very alarming.

Point in Time Homelessness Data from United Way Chattahoochee Valley. (Courtesy of United Way.)

The presentation involved a proposal for the Mayor to create a 5 to 7 member commission with progress reports at six and twelve months, and announced plans to shift PATH street outreach to Valley Healthcare starting September 1th. The proposal received support from several councilors.

District 1 City Councilor, Byron Hickey, called for immediate action:

Columbus police say the longer timeline reflects what they already practice in the field and helps avoid criminalizing homelessness.

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I think the ordinance that you guys have come up with, it works for us because it doesnt just give us eight days, it gives us longer. We use discretion when we go out there. Said Sgt. Katina Williams, Were dealing with people, not cars, not moving property and cars, right. One parking space to another, but moving people. And it takes longer than 24 hours. So Im thankful that you guys are giving us an opportunity.

Some residents still voiced concerns about the ordinance. The changes take effect ten days after Mayor Skip Henderson signs the ordinance. United Way and its partners will return at the next meeting with a proposed budget and plan for the task force.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  For the first time since the Columbus council terminated him on May 27th, former city manager Isaiah Hugley spoke publicly Tuesday night.

Hugley, now a mayoral candidate, spoke at a Muscogee County Democratic Committee campaign event at the Public Library. Hugley spoke for a half hour, a little more time than Jason Esteves, democratic candidate for Georgia Governor, received.

He did not directly address his firing or the EEOC complaint he recently filed against the city, which claimed discrimination. Inside, the room belonged to Hugley  and this is as close as he got to addressing the controversy swirling around him.

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And we have allowed crazy to occur in Columbus, Georgia, Hugley said. We got to get rid of crazy and get back on track. And we are going to do it. Unity through reconciliation can get us there.

Outside, there were a couple of protestors outside with a large sign that read, Make Columbus Great Again. Anybody but Isaiah Hugley.

Hugley spent most of his time talking about his background, coming out of poverty and public housing, to a 41-year career with the city, the last 20 as city manager.

I am not just going to dwell on the past, he said. I want to talk about when I become mayor of Columbus, Georgia. And I can assure you when I become mayor, we are going to provide leadership, we are going to manage with the same bold vision during my tenure as city manager.

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District 7 Councilor Joanne Cogle was one of the seven votes to terminate Hugley on May 27, despite the fact that he announced he was retiring at the end of the year. Cogle has announced her intention to run for mayor.

Hugley  through his attorney  had threatened legal action against six councilors, including Cogle. That came more than a month before he was fired. The EEOC complaint alleging discrimination could be the precursor to a suit against the city.

On the advice of two lawyers representing councilors, Cogle chose her words carefully Tuesday when asked about Hugley.

Theres still a personnel issue., Cogle said. Theres still potential for litigation. And so, again, Im focused on moving Columbus forward and focused on my campaign and only my campaign.

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Other candidates in the race dont have the same legal constraints.

Mark LaJoye: The former city manager even said he was for unity he was going to bring the community together. How do you do that when you due the city council members. Thats not unity, bringing it together.

Steven Kelly: What concerns me about him running for mayor is he actually does have a complaint in and is suing the city. And what I find funny is the fact that hes actually getting paid until he retires in December. Even though he was fired.

Kia Legette: Let me answer your question from a place of the Pledge of Allegiance. The Pledge of Allegiance, if you look at the bottom of the sentence, it says liberty for all and justice for all. Apparently, Hugley is seeking justice for something.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Officials with Columbus Technical College announced that the school earned the 2Gen Innovation Grant from the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning for Student Parent Success.

Columbus Technical College is part of five organizations recognized by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) for developing thoughtful and creative initiatives that address critical community needs.

DECAL awarded 15 new Community Impact Grants to organizations across the state to address the critical needs of child care, literacy, and food insecurity.

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Five organizations recognized received 2Gen Innovation Grants for Student Parent Success of up to $75,000 each.

RELATED: Columbus Technical College holds groundbreaking ceremony for VECTR center

The grants are designed to support the implementation of two-generation (2Gen) strategies that enhance childrens access to high-quality early education while also improving parents ability to secure family-supporting jobs, thereby fostering greater economic security, according to the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning.

We congratulate these grantees and thank them for developing thoughtful and creative initiatives that address critical local needs, said Amy M. Jacobs, commissioner for DECAL. Through these grant awards, DECAL is helping community partnerships improve future outcomes for young children and families across Georgia.

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The grantees are:

Columbus Technical College

Dalton Public Schools

Kennesaw State University Research and Service Foundation

Lowndes/Valdosta Commission for Children & Youth

DECAL is responsible for meeting the child care and early education needs of Georgias children and their families.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A man in a vegetative state will be kept alive after his secret lovers joined forces to tell a judge he believed in spiritual healing.

The 60-year-olds partners of 20 and 24 years did not know of each others existence until he suffered a bleed to the brain last October, resulting in what is now called a prolonged disorder of consciousness.

They both told Mrs Justice Theis, a Court of Protection judge, that he would have wanted to continue living despite being in a vegetative state.

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The judge agreed and refused to let the Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in north-west London withdraw life support from the man, referred to as YD.

The Trust had asked the court for permission to withdraw YDs clinically assisted nutrition and hydration, which would lead to his death within less than a month.

The application was opposed by YDs two partners, referred to as JG and MB, who both visit his bedside and are very well attuned to his physical needs, the court was told.

It was also opposed by the Official Solicitor, which is representing YDs interests.

An independent thinker

Counsel for the Official Solicitor said YDs present feeling would be that his life now is dignified because of the love and care provided to him by his partners and he would wish to continue in this way until the life of his body was ended by a process such as a heart attack, further stroke or infection.

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The two partners recognised that YD had compartmentalised his relationships. What was so striking about the evidence, according to Mrs Justice Theis, was that even though JG and MB had each known YD for 20 and 24 years respectively, they had been unaware of each others existence until YD was taken ill.

Despite that, Mrs Justice Theis said: They were each able to independently confirm many common features about YDs wishes and beliefs. In particular, regarding the depth of his interest in the spiritual world and his limitless curiosity about such matters that he held strong beliefs about.

YD has long held beliefs about the healing power of the mind, body and soul and to understand and, if required, push established boundaries based on his learning and understanding.

From their descriptions, YD was a compassionate, private person who was a fiercely independent thinker about a wide range of issues, in particular regarding the spiritual world and healing.

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His long-standing interest in the healing power of the mind, spirit or soul would very likely be values that would inform his decision if he had capacity. The changes that have been observed he would regard as positive signs and that he had the potential to make further changes.

YDs best interest

Mrs Justice Theis said that YDs beliefs in spiritual healing are likely to be relevant factors that would inform his decision if he had capacity and would be likely to be a factor in him wishing and feeling that he wanted to continue to be provided with clinically assisted nutrition and hydration.

Referring to the involvement of a medium and Reiki healing, she added: YD would also likely factor in, due to his long-standing beliefs in such matters, that others believe they are in communication with him.

She said having considered through a wide best-interests lens whether life-preserving treatment was in YDs best interests, she considered that it was.

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Mrs Justice Theis concluded: There is a strong presumption in favour of preserving life which, in my judgment, having carefully evaluated the evidence in this unusual case, the [hospital] trust has not discharged.

The hospitals application was refused.

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A commemoration event has taken place in west Belfast to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bayardo Bar attack on the Shankill Road.

On 13 August 1975, five people were killed and more than 60 were injured when the IRA launched a bombing and shooting attack on the bar.

Those killed were William John Gracey, 63, Samuel Gunning, 55, Joanne McDowell, 29, Hugh Alexander Harris, 21, and 17-year-old Linda Boyle, who died a week after the attack from her injuries.

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On Wednesday evening, members of the local community gathered to remember them.

Wreaths were laid at the memorial to the Bayardo Bar attack [BBC]

A short parade by a flute band which marched from Tennent Street along the Shankill Road preceded a laying of wreaths by victims' families and members of the Bayardo Somme Association, who organised the event.

The wreaths were laid at the memorial to the Bayardo Bar attack on the corner of Argyle Street.

The events of 50 years ago made the headlines this week as a tribute was paid to one of the men convicted of carrying out the attack, former senior IRA leader Brendan "Bik" McFarlane, at the Feile an Phobail event in Falls Park on Sunday evening.

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McFarlane died in February this year. McFarlane and two other IRA members, Peter Hamilton and Seamus Clarke, were sentenced to life imprisonment for carrying out the attack.

John MacVicar said the tribute to McFarlane was hurtful [BBC]

John MacVicar is the editor of The Shankill Mirror and was at the commemoration on Wednesday evening.

He said like so many other attacks that have taken place, it leaves an impact on families and the community.

He said seeing "one of the perpetrators of the attack eulogised" at the Feile an Phobail event "doesn't help".

"It's hurtful," he added.

The family of Linda Boyle have said they were "absolutely disgusted" by the "sick" tribute.

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Speaking ahead of the 50th anniversary, the family issued a statement which said: "Wednesday will be a particularly difficult day although there have been few easy days since the Provisional IRA stole away our beautiful Linda and the others that fateful day."

It went on to say how Linda would now be of retirement age and should be "relaxing and exploring a further chapter of life".

"Linda's storybook was ended before she got beyond her first chapter," it added.

Kenny Donaldson, from the South East Fermanagh Foundation, which supports victims and survivors of terrorism, said for this tribute to come just days before the anniversary of the bombing was "particularly cruel and crass".

Feile an Phobail have been contacted for a response.
As the final year of Fulton Countys four-year lease for use of the Atlanta City Detention Center approaches, a group of local and national criminal justice advocacy groups is calling on the Atlanta City Council to support a resolution to begin planning how the county will remove its 435 inmates from the facility.

The coalition Community Over Cages expects the legislation to be introduced Aug. 18 during the full council meeting by District 12 council member Antonio Lewis, who co-sponsored the bill with District 4 council member Jason Dozier and District 5 council member Liliana Bakhtiari.

The choices on Monday are very clear. If you believe in public safety, council members, you will pass the stage withdrawal legislation, said Devin Barrington-Ward, communications director for the National Police Accountability Project and director of the Black Futurists Group, at a press conference Wednesday.

Read More: Why Does Atlanta Want to Lease Its Jail to Fulton County?

Prior to the lease agreement, coalition members like Devin Franklin, senior movement policy counsel at the Southern Center for Human Rights, warned that inhumane practices carried out at Fulton Countys Rice Street Jail would carry over to ACDC.

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Since the detainee transfers began in December 2022, over a dozen people have died in Fulton County custody, including 19-year-old Noni Battiste-Kosoko and 43-year-old Michael Brandon Rivers at ACDC.

Activists Michael Collins (from left), Fallon McClure, and Roberta Meyers participated in Wednesdays press conference calling for incarcerated people to be removed from the Atlanta City Detention Center. (Madeline Thigpen/Capital B)

Two days after Battiste-Kosoko was found unresponsive in her cell, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it had opened an investigation into conditions at Fulton County Jail. Over a year later, the DOJ published a 97-page report detailing the constitutional and statutory rights violations endured by those incarcerated in Fulton County.

Jail conditions in facilities like ACDC represent a systematic assault on human dignity, which too often becomes a death sentence, Fallon McClure of Working Families Power said at Wednesdays press conference.

We need only to look to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., to see where paths of authoritarianism will lead and how quickly civil liberties can be eroded when we normalize law enforcement responses to social issues.

Read More: Overcrowded, Understaffed and Unsafe: One Womans Night in Atlantas City Jail

The coalition is instead calling on Mayor Andre Dickens to direct the Atlanta Police Department to prioritize the underutilized diversion center the city invested millions into creating.

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In the first four months the diversion center was open, it saw on average three people per day, far fewer than the 40 people per day it was designed to serve.

For the past four years, Fulton County has housed incarcerated people at the Atlanta City Detention Center. (Madeline Thigpen/Capital B)

Similarly, the coalition wants to see city leaders follow through on a resolution passed by the council in 2019 and signed by former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms to close the jail and transform the building into the John Lewis Center for Equity, Wellness and Freedom.

Despite the 2019 legislation, the future of ACDC is still up in the air as Fulton County government leaders, most notably Robb Pitts, chair of the Board of Commissioners, have repeatedly called for the jail to be sold to the county.

During the city Department of Corrections budget hearing in May, LaChandra Burks, chief operating officer for the city and a member of the mayors Cabinet, said all avenues for the future of ACDC remained under consideration, including closing the jail and selling it to Fulton County.

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Coalition members Robyn Hasan-Simpson and Dominique Grant of Women on the Rise said during the rally that Dickens is turning his back on the resolution he introduced when he was a member of the City Council.

Enough is enough. It is time to end the lease, Grant said. It is time to close ACDC for good, and its time to put our energy and our dollars where they actually make a difference, and thats in our community.

The post Communities Over Cages: Coalition Calls on Atlanta to End Jail Lease appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta.
NORTH CAROLINA (WGHP)  Its almost become a tradition: Every summer, the business analysts at CNBC rank all 50 states on which are the best for businesses, and each time, lately, North Carolina comes out on top.

Well, on top or very close. In three of the last five years, North Carolina was named #1 for businesses and in the other two, they were runners up  a streak no other state can match.

Guilford County Schools helps get students future ready

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Ask John Loyack, the North Carolina Community Colleges Vice President of Economic Development, if hes surprised by that and hell tell you, Absolutely not, says Loyack. I think every year when we look at states all across the nation and see where they rank in terms of economic development, Im always certain well see North Carolina somewhere towards the top, regardless of what types of business were talking about. You could look at something like small business as an example: in May, we saw the largest number of new business startups in the state for years and years and years. And so this is a good place to do business, whether youre starting a small coffee shop or whether youre looking for 15,000 engineers to work at a major aerospace manufacturing facility.

The states 58 community colleges have the widest charge of any of the higher education schools. Their number one product is still preparing students for a four-year university  most community college students get automatic admission to one of North Carolinas 4-year schools with certain prerequisites. But close behind that is building programs that can be adapted for the training of people in any industry or for any company.

We have to support everything that supports the business outside of (a businesss) facility as well, says Loyack. And so were the ones who are providing the teachers of tomorrow, the nurses of tomorrow, the EMTs, construction workers, in addition to all the highly trained engineers who may be getting their degrees at a four-year institution, but theyre coming back to Community College for continuing education opportunities as well.

North Carolina teacher bonuses for those with masters degrees could be reinstated

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And they do it at about half the cost of the traditional universities, which can be vital.

Most students stop their studies at Community College, not because of the academics, because they run into nonacademic issues: their car breaks down, they lose their housing; they have food insecurity, I mean, and those are big societal challenges but were on the front edge of that, says Tony Clarke, the president of Guilford Technical Community College.

Loyack points out that the word community may be the most important one in their name because, unlike campuses such as UNC Chapel Hill, which draw students from across the country and even the world, The students go to community colleges, 80% of them going to stay in their communities. So were supporting the needs of the communities all across the state of North Carolina in the way that the universities are just not designed to do, says Loyack.

Many people, though, still see community colleges as the only place to prepare a young person for a lucrative trade and GTCCs Tony Clarke says North Carolinas community college system still excels at that.

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Ive just seen apprenticeship continue to grow and grow and leveraging that to serve employers and make sure they get the workforce that they need. I think we do that probably better than any other state, says Clarke.

See more on this in this edition of The Buckley Report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
Dayton Public Schools have issued a response to a lawsuit filed by the district thats seeking to challenge the new state law banning Dayton Public from buying RTA bus passes for high school students.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The district is suing the state and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce over the state law put into effect in July when the state budget was signed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. The law bans the districts practice of buying the bus passes to transport high school students. Without enough buses or drivers to transport all high school students on yellow school buses, the district started the year with all high school students finding their own transportation to school.

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>>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Dayton Public Schools sues state for new busing law, calling it unreasonable, discriminatory

On Wednesday, the first day of school for most high school students in the district, Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence issued a statement to News Center 7 explaining the districts stance on the lawsuit, filed in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.

The Dayton Public School District cannot comment on the pending litigation. However, it has become clear that our community does not agree with the Ohio Legislatures decision to halt our use of RTA busing, Lawrence said in the emailed statement to News Center 7.

We have heard from many individuals through their interactions with Board members and staff members, and there is a consensus that, as a school district, we must partner with the community to assist and defend children. We continue to explore all of our options in an attempt to support our students and their families.

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News Center 7 reached out to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce for a statement Tuesday night and have yet to receive a response.

TRENDING STORIES:

In the lawsuit filed on Aug. 11, the district calls the law arbitrary, unreasonable, and discriminatory and asks a judge to temporarily block the state from enforcing it. Additionally the district argues students will suffer irreparable harm.

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Without RTA passes, certain students will be unable to consistently attend school. Some students will not be able to attend school at all ... There will be a high risk that students will skip school because of the burdens necessary to get to and from school, court documents state.

The district added that it would cost about $16 million a year to use yellow buses for high school students.

DPS cannot offer to transport all high school students by school bus while at the same time remaining fiscally responsible to its students and community, the lawsuit reads.

A hearing is scheduled for Thursday morning in a Franklin County courtroom where a judge will hear arguments about issuing the temporary block on the law.
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha joined 12 News at 4 Tuesday to discuss the ongoing homicide investigation in Cranston and the states sanctuary jurisdiction designation.

He also weighed in on the Washington Bridge lawsuit and shared his plans to disperse money from the 6/10 Project soil contamination settlement.

Watch the full interview in the video above.

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Colorado's annual Ridgway Reservoir Smallmouth Bass Classic is underway, with one fisherman, Chase Nicholson, poised to continue his legacy of winning the $10,000 prize for removing invasive fish from the reservoir.

In addition to the hefty prize money that comes from winning the competition, anglers feel it's a necessary event to prevent the population of the highly invasive smallmouth bass from wreaking havoc on the native ecosystem "before it becomes unstoppable," Nicholson told Colorado Public Radio.

Smallmouth bass are native to the Great Lakes and were introduced by humans years ago. They feast on "beloved native and endangered species." According to CPR, they have already invaded the Green and Yampa rivers, making them even more dangerous.

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Smallmouth bass populate quickly. As Cornell Chronicle stated, "Their arrival led to declines of native fish species and stunting of growth rates in prized brook and lake trout, which compete with bass for the same prey."

Invasive species that impact native fish populations have ample economic impacts. They can lead to a decline in the fishing industry's production as they drastically change the habitat where particular fish are found. Further, they can push out the necessary keystone species, which can harm the native design of the waterway, ultimately changing the operation of entire communities.

The annual tournament is crucial to rebalancing the native populations of the reservoir. Nicholson and other competitors navigate torrential waters for a chance to win the prize money.

"It can get ugly out here when the wind's blowing and the waves are 3 feet tall, swells rolling past and you're trying to paddle from one side of the reservoir to the other," Nicholson told CPR. Nevertheless, competitors brave the landscape for five weeks every summer.

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Eric Gardunio, an aquatic biologist with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, told CPR that because humans brought the invasive bass to the area, it's our job to remove them.

This year, the competition began on July 5 and will end on Aug. 10.

What source of air pollution do you worry most about at home? Wildfires Gas stove Fireplace Something else 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.








Considered a pioneer in the high-level action-research approach to public safety, criminologist David Kennedy has spent his career deterring gang violence in America through community-based violence reduction.

He has played a key role in group violence intervention studies that have proven to reduce violence in some of the countrys most historically crime-ridden areas, including the Boston Gun Project in the mid-1990s.

The way violence works in most cases is in very small groups, often less than 1% of a citys population, and an even tinier fraction, what Kennedy described as impact players, drive most homicides and nonfatal shootings in a community.

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On Wednesday, he spoke to Utah lawmakers, law enforcement, educators and others involved in the states Youth Violence Prevention & Public Safety Working Group on how to reduce violence and community concerns in Utah, specifically in places like Salt Lake County, where defense attorney Mark Moffet said youth gun violence is becoming a critical issue.

If an individual joins a gang at age 19 and stays involved in that lifestyle for the next 10 or so years, theres a 15% chance that person will not survive, meaning that nearly 1 in 7 would die from violence, Kennedy explained.

Pretty quickly you get to a world in which essentially everybody gets killed or seriously assaulted living this life, he said, adding that another study found that if you were in this high risk world, it was literally safer for you to be on the ground in an active combat theater in Afghanistan than it was to be walking around in your own neighborhood.

If somebody close to you has been shot, you and those around that victim are about 10 times more likely to be shot, Kennedy said. This is what law enforcement calls the cousin rule.

Maritza Huipe holds a sign during a rally against gun violence outside the state Capitol, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. | George Walker IV, Associated Press

For years, Kennedy said that traditional methods of reducing crime, such as law enforcement and prevention, have failed, though noting that their work is commendable. The most powerful root cause of violence is violence. Something happens today. Something else happens in response to it tomorrow. Something happens in response to that the next day. ... And the most effective thing we can do about violence prevention is something very immediate to make things safer.

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That means creating a certainty of consequences, using credible messengers and offering immediate, tangible help, not just long-term programs.

In this May 21, 2015, photo, former gang member and current Project VOYCE teacher and mentor Sir Martin talks with his students during a class Martin teaches at Manual High School, in Denver, Colo. Martin joined the nonprofit Project VOYCE, which stands for Voices of Youth Changing Education, when he was 16, a year after joining the Crips gang. | Brennan Linsley

If an offender continues to break the law, they need to understand that it is a guarantee that they will come under legal scrutiny, Kennedy explained  a strategy they used against gangs in Boston in the 90s.

Law enforcement essentially figured out a way to turn their (criminals) chronic criminality against them. And they would literally go to these groups, talk to them face to face, and say, We are making you a special project.

They would focus on one specific gang and threaten them with every level of legal repercussion possible:

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We cant even do anything about all of your criminality, but youre the most violent group in the city as we speak, and that means that until you stop being the most violent group in the city, we are going to take advantage of all of your criminality and make your life miserable. We will shut down your street drug markets. You wont be able to drink beers or smoke joints in public. Well enforce your probation and parole conditions, which youre mostly getting away with. Well tow your unregistered cars, well stop you, and cite you for driving without a license. Well go to the DA and the U.S. attorney and get them to pay special attention to your open cases. Well bring the animal control people in, and well take away your abused pitbulls.

It always works, he said.

Kennedy stated that to prevent youth from adopting a gang lifestyle, community members who have served time for gang violence and turned their lives around, as well as families who have lost loved ones to gang violence, are the most effective persuaders.

Theyre much more effective than a police officer or a prevention advocate would be, he noted.

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Rep. Tyler Clancy, R-Provo, who leads the youth violence prevention group, said his main takeaway from Kennedys expert experience is that learning these strategies doesnt necessarily inspire him to create more legislation. Instead, he aims to coordinate efforts with people and initiatives already working to solve the issue in Utah.
RIFLE, Colo. (KREX)  On Monday, Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Response Team 3, alongside several other agencies, held a community meeting in Rifle to provide updates to those affected by the Lee Fire, the fifth largest in Colorados history.

Were doing everything we can. Were throwing everything we have at this fire. Were being aggressive where we can The fuels and the weather, its been killing us. Very difficult for suppression, says Kevin Thompson, fire behavior analyst for Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Response Team 3.

Thompson says its all hands on deck.

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We have, Im guessing around 700 firefighters on the ground. That includes crews, engines and heavy equipment, he said.

Incident Meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld says theres a chance rain may make their job easier this weekend.

It does seem like we do have some considerable chances [for rain] starting this weekend. Right now, were looking at a 40 to 50% chance, said Schoenfeld.

Lisa Dawson, agency administrator for the Bureau of Land Managements Colorado field office, says shes issued a large public land closure.

It does run essentially from the Colorado River Valley, south from County Road 5 into the Roan Plateau close to Hubbard Mesa, and then to the east, it follows up along County Road 252 to Rifle Gap and up to Rifle Mountain Park.

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Permit holders and oil and gas operators will be able to access the land and attend to any resources they may have.

Congressman Jeff Hurd was in attendance and said a few words.

Im committed to working with our state and local and federal partners on this to make sure that Colorado gets the support and resources that it needs. Period. The Lee Fire is now the fifth largest fire in the state of Colorado. I believe thats correct, in our history. So its big, lets take it seriously, Hurd said.

For those who were unable to attend, the meeting was recorded and is available on the Elk and Lee Fire Information Facebook page.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Outraged community members and parents are voicing their concerns about ICE agents on campus ahead of the start of class for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Nearly a dozen people shared their fears, worries, and opinions on how CMS leaders should handle ICE agents at schools. The speeches were passionate and loud. At one point, a protest broke out, which ended with an officer escorting a woman out of the meeting chambers.

What CMS parents need to know about ICE and school safety in 2025

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ICE agents shouldnt be allowed inside school under any circumstances, said one woman.

Nine people spoke out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement being able to have a presence at schools during Tuesday nights CMS board meeting.

Students should never have to wonder whether walking into school may lead to them being torn apart from their family, said one man.

The woman holding this sign was eventually escorted out of the meeting chambers

Some were parents who were worried about how potential raids would affect students.

How will our children be traumatized if and when they witness a teacher, family member, or God forbid, one of their friends taken from school by ICE? said Dr. Emily Wheeler.

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One former student referenced the reported ICE activity down the road from Charlotte East Language Academy in mid-May.

How does that promote an environment where kids can do their best and learn? said another man. All that promotes is an environment of fear and paranoia.

Board members responded to the concerns later in the meeting.

Recent CMS grads start careers in Charlotte city departments

Our schools are safe, said Gregory Dee Rankin. There are protocols that are put in place, and ICE cant just come and set up on our campuses.

The districts legal team created a webinar this summer to help principals understand what to do if agents come to campus. The rules say agents are only allowed in public areas like parking lots and front lobbies. They cant go into classrooms unless they have a warrant.

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Weve had long conversations about ICE and how it impacts students, and I can tell you that everyone here deeply cares, said CMS board member Liz Monterrey Duvall. We didnt create this. It comes from the federal and state, and thats where our anger and frustration should go.

Ahead of the start of school Aug. 25, district leaders emphasized that all children can attend public school regardless of citizenship status, and they will continue to follow the laws and policies protecting students privacy.

MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM

CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG SCHOOLS

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Community members rally to support families displaced after California Borough fire

Community members in California Borough are rallying around the families who were displaced in Saturdays fire.

The fire on Liberty Street left six homes damaged  three destroyed, three partially  and four families, including several with young children, without a home. No one was hurt.

>>> 4 families displaced by fire in Washington County that destroyed 3 buildings, damaged 3 more <<<

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On Wednesday, they had to stop accepting clothing donations after receiving more than they ever imagined.

Local substitute teacher Julie Betts was on vacation when she got the devastating news in a text message.

I hate to tell you this in a text, but your house is burning, Betts recalled of the message.

Within days, the community stepped up. Jeff Christner, a relative of one of the victims, asked for help.

If anyone has any clothes, household items or toiletries, we are asking people to message either me or my wife, and were going to arrange pick-ups and make sure it gets to them in a timely fashion, Christner said.

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The response was overwhelming. Donations filled the local volunteer fire department, and firefighters moved items to the elementary school library, where every table and corner was taken  and this was after the first batch had already been delivered to the families.

It was bad, traumatic, but everyone is rallying. The community is wonderful, Betts said.

>>> PHOTOS: Thick smoke, heavy flames rip through 6 buildings in Washington County <<<

Even without a home, Betts has been helping deliver supplies to other families.

Ive gone to one family twice, and I have stuff to take again to them, she said.

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Betts says the support from her coworkers and the community has been invaluable.

The teachers have all reached out. What do you need, Julie? Thing is, you dont know. I dont know what I need because I dont have a place to live right now, she said.

The fires cause is still under investigation, but amid the ruins, the outpouring of support is a powerful reminder of how quickly a close-knit community can come together in a time of need.

Community members can still contribute food, toiletries and gift cards to help the displaced families. However, they are no longer accepting clothing.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  The commutation hearing for Ralph Menzies, an inmate on death row for the last 37 years, began on Wednesday.

Menzies was convicted in 1988 for the 1986 aggravated murder, kidnapping, and robbery of Maurine Hunsaker. Menzies attorneys cite significant decline in cognitive function and are asking the board for mercy to allow Menzies to pass away with his terminal illness and not be executed by a firing squad.

PREVIOUSLY: Death row inmate granted commutation hearing by Board of Pardons and Parole

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The question is whether he will die by his disease or his terminal illness, the defense attorneys said Wednesday morning. He (Menzies) is tied to a wheelchair, an oxygen tank, and is no threat to the prisoners at the facility.

Menzies attorney also argued that one of the key witnesses in Menzies conviction had committed perjury, and caused the judge at the time to sentence him to death.

We are not asking you to state that his sentence or conviction should have not happened but you are a board of mercy.

Two doctors were brought in by Menzies attorneys to testify about Menzies failing health. One of the doctors, Dr. Hyde, explained how dementia is diagnosed to the board and how it is impacting Menzies brain.

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And in his case, this wiring that connects all the different parts of the brain together, there are abnormalities in that wiring. Thats what the white matter is. It is the wiring that connects all the nerve cells to different parts of the brains regions. Its what allows the brain to function.

Unlike a court hearing, there is no cross-examination of the witnesses. Menzies attorneys and the State of Utah will both bring their witnesses, hear their testimony, and leave the decision in the hands of the board.

The hearing is expected to continue until Friday where the board will hear testimonies from Medical doctors, the victims family and attorneys from both the sides of the argument.

Court sets execution date for Utah death row inmate Ralph Menzies

Who is Ralph Menzies?

On February 23, 1986, Maurine Hunsaker was abducted from the Gas-A-Mat convenience store and gas station in Kearns, Utah, where she was employed. Her husband called the convenience store and went in person when she did not pick up. When he arrived, he found that Hunsaker was missing, along with her purse.

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According to documents, Hunsaker called the home phone and told her husband that she had been instructed to tell him she was kidnapped and robbed. A police officer spoke with Hunsaker, and she indicated that the kidnapper intended to release her.

Board of Pardons replaces board member for review of Ralph Menzies commutation petition

Days later, on February 25, 1986, a hiker found Hunsaker deceased near a picnic area in Big Cottonwood Canyon. She had been strangled to death, according to the medical examiner, and her throat was cut. Marks on her wrists and scuffing on a nearby tree indicated that she had been tied to it somehow.

Victims family reacts to convicted killer being ruled competent to be executed

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During this time, Menzies was booked into jail on an unrelated burglary charge. When officers were taking his possessions, Menzies ran away and hid in a changing room. Later, identification cards were located in the changing rooms hamper, and an officer realized that they belonged to Hunsaker.

Witnesses further connected Menzies to the disappearance and murder of Maurine Hunsaker, and some had even seen him with her on the night of her murder. In 1988, a jury found Menzies guilty, and he was placed on death row for the serious and senseless crime.

Taberon Dave Honie and Ronnie Lee Gardner, the last two inmates to be executed, were also granted commutation hearings. The board ultimately rejected their arguments and both executions proceeded as scheduled.

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NEW YORK (PIX11)  New Yorks top lawyer is taking the company behind Zelle to court for what she calls enabling widespread fraud.

Attorney General Letitia James has accused the company, Early Warning Services, LLC (EWS), of failing to protect Zelle users from massive amounts of fraud, the suit states.

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An investigation by the AGs office alleges that Zelle lacked critical safety features, allowing scammers to steal more than $1 billion from users of the money transferring app between 2017 and 2023.

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No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam, said James in a statement. I look forward to getting justice for the New Yorkers who suffered because of Zelles security failures.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

James said major banks such as JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Capital One and Wells Fargo tasked EWS with launching a payment app that would compete with Venmo, PayPal and CashApp.

However, the rushed launch without verification steps meant scammers were easily able to register with misleading email addresses associated with businesses or government agencies, the attorney general alleged.

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As a result, scammers and impersonators were able to gain access to users accounts to make unauthorized transfers or convince users to send funds under false pretenses, according to the suit. Due to Zelles emphasis on immediate and irreversible transfers, consumers often didnt realize they were the victim of a scam until the money was already gone, James said.

The attorney generals investigation also alleged that EWS and its partner banks knew for years that fraud was spreading on Zelle and failed to take meaningful action to stop it. EWS is accused of not promptly removing fraudulent users, even when scams became known, and did not require banks to reimburse consumers for certain incidents.

James said shes seeking restitution for all affected New Yorkers and court orders mandating EWS maintain necessary anti-fraud safeguards and take other steps to protect their customers from fraud.

A spokesperson for Zelle shared the following statement with PIX11 News in response to the lawsuit.

Zelle leads the fight to stop fraud and scams in America. This lawsuit is a political stunt to generate press, not progress. The Attorney General wants to hand criminals a blueprint for guaranteed payouts with no consequences, opening the floodgates to more scams, not less. Thats bad policy and puts consumers at greater risk. This is nothing more than a copycat of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau lawsuit that was dismissed in March. Despite the Attorney Generals assertions, they did not conduct an investigation of Zelle. Had they conducted an investigation, they would have learned that more than 99.95 percent of all Zelle transactions are completed without any report of scam or fraud  which leads the industry. The Attorney General should focus on the hard facts, stopping criminal activity and adherence to the law, not overreach and meritless claims.

Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.

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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing oversees nursing homes in the state of Iowa. (Photo via Getty Images; logo courtesy of the State of Iowa)

The federal governments most recent assessment of health-facility inspections indicates Iowa has failed to meet three key standards.

The new report from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services indicates the state-run inspection agencies that oversee nursing homes and hospitals around the nation fielded more than 107,000 complaints about health care facilities last year. Thats a 31% increase from 2019, which officials say may have contributed to 38 states failing to meet all of the federal performance standards.

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Each year, CMS assesses the performance of the state agencies tasked with enforcing federal regulations concerning health care facilities. The latest data shows that last year, only 14 of the 52 agencies met all of the acceptable thresholds for the annual recertification of nursing homes, according to the CMS State Performance Standards System Findings published last week.

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CMS report indicates the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing met most of the federal standards related to the inspection process in 2024, but failed to meet the standards in three areas:

 Off-hour inspections at the worst nursing homes: Under CMS guidelines, state agencies are to inspect the worst care facilities in their jurisdiction  the federally designated special-focus facilities that have recurring, serious deficiencies in resident care  during off hours to guard against homes altering their routine in anticipation of what should be a surprise visit by inspectors.

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 Immediate jeopardy in acute-care settings: To accurately record the seriousness of deficiencies that can cause actual injury or death to residents in acute and continuing-care settings, inspectors must use a CMS-prescribed immediate jeopardy template in at least 80% of all cases where immediate jeopardy is cited. The template is used to document the evidence of each issue that places patients at risk.

 Emergency Medical Treatment & Labor Act violations in acute-care settings: State inspection agencies must initiate, on a timely basis, the intake and investigation of at least 95% of EMTALA immediate-jeopardy complaints tied to acute and continuing-care providers. EMTALA violations often relate to emergency-room patients being discharged without first being stabilized.

Diane McCool, spokesperson for the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing said the CMS report shows Iowa met the standard for conducting annual recertification inspections every 15.9 months, and that the agency not only met that standard but exceeded expectations.

DIALs continued transparency and timely responsiveness reflect its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Iowas most vulnerable residents, McCool said. Currently, there are zero nursing homes with more than 15.9 months survey interval in the third quarter and the state average is 11.54 months for the recertification.

Complaints up 31% from 2019

In its report, CMS notes that its findings are to be considered in the context of unchanged state-agency funding levels since fiscal year 2015, despite continued resource and workload challenges in the last five years.

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The report points out that since 2019, the number of complaints requiring investigation by health facility inspectors has increased 31% nationally. Most of the 107,000 complaints filed in fiscal year 20124 are related to nursing homes, CMS reported.

CMS also reported that during the past five years, there has been a 79% increase in complaints directed against hospitals, with more than 14,500 such complaints filed in fiscal year 2024.

Last October, DIAL issued a press release announcing that its health facilities inspectors had met the federal mandate for nursing home inspections outlined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for federal fiscal year 2024.

The news release focused on the federal requirement that each individual nursing home undergo an annual inspection, called a recertification survey, within 16 months of its last annual inspection. DIAL met that specific requirement in 2024.

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At the time, DIAL also took issue with a September 2024 report from Auditor of State Rob Sand that indicated DIAL had failed to meet certain inspection standards. DIAL said the audit relied on outdated numbers and incorrect federal performance measurements, and the agency criticized the auditors office for failing to engage with DIAL before issuing its inaccurate report.

The auditors report is inaccurate, incomplete, and confusing, McCool said at the time. It is also a waste of taxpayer dollars as the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services will release their own findings of the state survey agencies after the federal fiscal year concludes.

At least part of the conflict over the findings is due to the nature of the auditors report, which looked at DIALs compliance over three annual inspection cycles. DIAL itself focused more narrowly on data from 2024 when it performed better than in previous years.

The auditors report indicated Iowa had been conducting nursing home inspections, on average, every 17.1 months  which is more than four months beyond the federal mandate that requires such homes to be inspected, on average, every 12.9 months.

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In addition to the federal mandate for inspecting all homes on a 12.9-month average, CMS also requires states to inspect each individual care facility at least once every 15.9 months.

According to the state auditors report, DIAL had failed to meet that requirement, as well. The report stated that for 85.4% of Iowas 403 nursing homes, inspectors missed the 15.9-month deadline on at least one occasion during the past three inspection cycles.

Editors note: This story was updated Aug. 14, 2025, to include comments from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing about the new CMS report.

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August 12th marks the anniversary of the end of the Spanish-American War, which had distinguished service by the Rough Riders, many of whom came from Texas, some of whom were former Texas Rangers. Historian Raffi Andonian shares fun facts about this group.

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PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  Don Davis will be making a few stops in Eastern N.C. today, including Wilson and Snow Hill.

His itinerary includes a visit to the 136th Wilson County Tobacco Market, Wilson Community College Convocation, and the Wayne County Y-M-C-A.

8:30 A.M.  9:00 A.M.: 136th Wilson County Tobacco Market Opening Day.

9:15 A.M.  9:30 A.M.: Congressman Davis will visit the Wilson Community College Convocation to welcome the 151 full-time faculty and staff as they prepare to begin their fall semester.

9:35 A.M.  10:35 A.M.: Congressman Davis will meet with the Veterans Combat Support Group of Wilson to provide a legislative update and hear veterans concerns.

10:45 A.M.  12:00 P.M.: Davis will visit the We Work for Health STEM Grant program to engage with seniors.

12:45 P.M.  1:45 P.M.: Davis will visit the Wayne County YMCA to engage with the community and learn about local initiatives.

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Additionally, he will meet with the Snow Hill Police Department to discuss the challenges of maintaining the department.

4:00 P.M.  5:00 P.M.: Congressman Davis will meet with Chief Smith, Mayor Liles, and Town Manager Vinson to discuss the Snow Hill Police Departments challenges.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT.
HARPERSFIELD TOWNSHIP  County leaders had the opportunity to interact with Congressman David Joyce Tuesday afternoon at Ferrantes Winery and Ristorante.

It is very important for me to come here and talk to you. .... We need to figure out what [we] can do in D.C. and Columbus, Joyce said of the importance of interaction with local leaders as he began his talk.

Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County annually opens their August meeting to the congressman to answer questions and report on Washingtons latest challenges.

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GPAC Executive Director Greg Myers and Lake To River Vice President of Engagement and Investor Relations Michael McGiffin set the tone for the meeting, talking about three county expansions that will create more jobs.

Power is important for future economic development, and so is shovel-ready sites, McGiffin said before introducing Joyce. He said a proposed natural gas pipeline  the subject of a planned feasibility study  could open up new business options up and down the Route 11 corridor.

Myers credited the business and government leaders in attendance for engaging with the process and helping economic development projects succeed.

Myers said he is also excited about a healthcare collaboration with the Ashtabula Area City Schools, because it started with interaction between partners.

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Joyce agreed that energy is an important component of economic development. We need to do what we can for energy independence, he said.

If we can bring oil down to $30 a barrel, we can break Russia, Joyce said.

He said technology has changed jobs and even war.

Who would have thought what drones can do, Joyce said.

Joyce thanked A-Tech Superintendent Scott Wludyga for providing educational opportunities for people interested in in-demand careers.

Here in Northeastern Ohio, we have been training people for the jobs that are here for a long time, Joyce said. AI is not coming to fix your air conditioner.

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Joyce said he believes in training workers, providing energy which will lead to exports.

Training workers can be challenging when some industries disappear, and others are created.

As you lose one industry, you still have a lot of good folks willing to do the job to support their families, Joyce said.

He said people in their 40s may need to be trained for another 25 years of work in a different industry.

Joyce said he an appropriations bill needs to be passed in September.

Ashtabula County Commissioner J.P Ducro asked if there was any way the federal government could help reduce transportation costs and help families afford childcare.

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Joyce said he believes tax credits are the best way to help young families afford childcare and other needs.

He said he really enjoys being back home during the month of August, and stops at many local businesses to get the latest Ohio products.

I believe it is the best place in the nation, he said.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Realtors and politicians on Wednesday from across the Chattahoochee Valley gathered in Columbus for a legislative breakfast.

The keynote speaker was Democratic Congressman Sanford Bishop. WRBL News 3 was in attendance at Green Island Hills Country Club in Columbus.

RELATED: Columbus City Council passes amended ordinance on homelessness

Bishop used the forum to make a statement about the state of politics and how regulatory changes in Washington, D.C. could impact those selling homes on Main Street.

He believes it could diminish the American dream  homeownership. And he blames it on the current political climate.

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When I got to Washington in 1993, there was collegiality. Where that has gone and where we are now takes us into a very, very bad place, Bishop said.

As a 17-term Democrat, Bishop is in the minority in Washington, D.C., which is controlled by a Republican majority.

Well, I just came to tell the truth. I was speaking to the Columbus Board of Realtors, whose mission is homeownership. Making homeownership available, affordable for the people in this market, Bishop said.

Yes, he got up and pretty much told it like it was from his perspective. As a longtime member of Congress, it is pretty insightful about what I felt is legislation that has gone before and passed and what is coming up now. Hes very strong in his opinions and beliefs, said Steve Register, federal political coordinator for the National Association of Realtors.

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Bishop decried the Trump Administrations dismantling of funding and programs that he says help people purchase affordable homes.

They need to know the policies being undertaken in Washington is undermining that mission, Bishop said.

The message didnt sit well with Randy Robertson, a Republican state senator and majority whip.

RELATED: Columbus mayoral candidate Isaiah Hugley: We got to get rid of crazy and get back on track

Unfortunately, its the same speech being given by Democrats throughout our country and Washington, D.C. Where basically they try to take a subject matter to let their solution be socialism, Robertson said.

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If thats some socialism, I dont know. But I think thats what the people I represent want. They want a better quality of life, Bishop said.

It was a bipartisan room and the congressman had his message and platform as he didnt back down.

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CONNEAUT  City council approved the next step for applying for snow relief at a Monday council meeting.

Council made City Manager Nick Sanford the citys authorized agent to negotiate an agreement with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency for reimbursement.

City leaders have been seeking compensation from the 2024 Thanksgiving weekend snowstorm, when the area got nearly three feet of snow, shutting down activity and requiring the states help to clear roads.

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Sanford said the city does not have a timeline from hearing back from either the Ohio EMA or the Ohio Department of Transportation on the issue.

We do have everything that we need in this submission, he said. This [ordinance] is the last piece of the puzzle as it was for this particular stage. My hope is itll be fairly seamless. There will be few if any questions or comments.

The city is asking for roughly $392,000, $203,000 of which relates to damage on South Ridge Road, Sanford said.

Im not going to bear fault on ODOT or the city, he said. You had about four inches of packed snow and ice on that roadway from emergency vehicles having to traverse that roadway during that entire winter event. So, it had to be removed for people to be able to travel that roadway.

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Council passed a resolution requesting the speed limit on Route 7 from just south of Underridge Road to just north of Gateway Avenue be changed from 50 to 40 miles per hour.

Sanford said ODOT has to approve the speed limit change after a traffic study.

It seems a bit much, considering we know what we know here, he said.

City leaders have been interested in implementing a lower speed limit and placing traffic signals at the Route 7/Interstate 90 interchange to reduce crashes and fatalities.

Recent developments have escalated the occurrence of motor vehicle accidents, Sanford said.

He said that includes the death of a city resident last year.

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Sanford said ODOT will include looking at Route 7s speed limit in a study the agency is conducting on adding traffic signals to the interchange.

The traffic study should be complete this fall, he said. I estimate an October draft. I would hope the reinvention of the wheel is unnecessary in this particular context.

Council President Terry Moisio said he hopes the resolution will help with the matter.

My patience with ODOT is running very, very low, he said.

Second Ward Councilperson Chris Castrilla said he is thankful for Sanfords work on the issue.

Weve done more than enough talk, he said. Its time the state listen to us.

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Councilperson-at-large Mariana Branch said a lower speed limit could give people time to slow down when a semi-truck pulls onto Route 7.

The citys 2025 paving project is substantially complete, Sanford said.

Koski Construction Company was awarded the contract for the citys paving, which initially included portions of Main, Broad, Salem and Day streets.

Sanford said the city added a portion of Buffalo Street to the contract.

Moisio said he would be interested in having handicapped parking at portions of Main Street.

Broad Street phase one has completed deconstruction and storm sewer piping has been delivered, Sanford said.

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Sanford expects excavation to start soon, he said.

The city, MS Consultants and ODOT will start planning the second phase of the project, he said.

The city is continuing to look at Rockwell Street, after a portion of its asphalt was replaced by gravel in July.

We dont see any immediate risks, Sanford said. Thats the good news.

After concerns were raised by residents and city leaders, the city found longitudinal cracking on the entire length of the storm sewer.

The city is looking into alternative methods of dust control.

Seneca Products, the company providing the citys dust suppressant, stopped delivering it to the city after concerns were raised to the company by Buckeye Environmental Network.

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Sanford said there are expensive but environmentally safe alternatives available.

We are one of many municipalities and entities throughout Ohio that are in a similar situation, who have aggregate roads, he said.

Buckeye Environmental Network was scheduled to present to city council at the meeting, but no representatives were present.

City leaders will continue discussing the topic at the next work session.

The city will apply for two grants after councils approval, both of which do not require local matches, Sanford said.

One is a $19,400 grant for Norfolk Southerns Safety First Program, to buy wildland firefighting gear for the Conneaut Fire Department.

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Sanford said the CFD learned about the grant opportunity when Norfolk Southern brought its safety train to the city and presented to local emergency services.

The other grant application is for the Ohio Department of Commerces Cemetery Program, to fund cemetery repairs.

The city applied for Canadian National Railways Corporate Giving Program to fund the display of components of a former Conneaut Hulett at Marine Memorial Park for educational purposes.

The inventor of the Hulett was born in Conneaut.
A western Red-backed Vole found on the Oregon coast in December 2005. A forest dweller, the Western Red-backed Vole lives along the coast and at lower elevations in Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and Sitka spruce forests. (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife/Flickr)

Conservation groups are again going to court as part of a nearly two-decade-long fight to protect a small forest-dwelling rodent native to the Oregon Coast.

The Center For Biological Diversity, Cascadia Wildlands, Oregon Wild and the Bird Alliance Of Oregon sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on July 17 in U.S. District Court in Portland over the agencys decision not to provide the north Oregon Coast red tree vole federal Endangered Species Act protections. The suit names the agencys director, Paul Souza, and Doug Burgum, head of the U.S. Department of the Interior, as defendants.

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The suit is the latest in an ongoing effort since 2007 to protect red tree voles, which live in the canopy of old growth conifer forests and feed on the needles of Douglas fir, Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees.

The small, mouse-sized animals with reddish-brown fur traditionally lived in forests along the coasts of Northern California and all along the Oregon Coast. But theyve seen their habitat reduced by roughly 65% since 1986 due to logging and wildfires in the forests they depend on, according to a 2023 study from the U.S. Forest Services Pacific Northwest Research Station, which Trump officials announced they will close. The protections conservationists seek are for a distinct population of red tree vole that now only lives in northwestern Oregon.

Red tree voles have graced Oregons coastal old-growth forests for thousands of years, but we could lose them forever if they dont get Endangered Species Act protections soon, said Ryan Shannon, attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, in a statement.

The group in 2007 petitioned Fish and Wildlife to add the vole to its Threatened and Endangered Species List, which would have applied a number of protective measures meant to preserve the voles habitat, likely including logging restrictions in old growth areas along the northern Oregon Coast. Four years later, agency officials agreed that protecting the voles was warranted but ruled that other species had higher priority for listing.

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For about a decade between 2011 and 2019, Fish and Wildlife continued to consider adding the red tree vole to the Threatened and Endangered Species List, insisting on five separate occasions that listing it was warranted but precluded by higher priority species that needed more urgent protection. But in 2019, the agency officially reversed course and denied listing it. The Center for Biological Diversity sued, and Fish and Wildlife officials agreed in a settlement to reconsider listing the vole.

But in February of 2024, Fish and Wildlife officials again determined the Oregon Coast red tree vole did not warrant listing as an endangered or threatened species, in part because the species is considered adept at moving to find new habitat when it loses its current habitat.

The lawsuit against the agency argues the decision deprives the population of coastal voles of critical protections necessary to ensure its continued survival and recovery, fails to follow the best available science, and is arbitrary and capricious.

The decline in red tree voles has cascading effects. The voles are prey for northern spotted owls, who are federally listed as threatened and also rely on old-growth forests for their survival.

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Red tree voles are an important indicator species of forest health, said Bethany Cotton, conservation director for Cascadia Wildlands, in a statement. Their decline should be a wake-up call to us all to better care for our remaining mature and old-growth forests.

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Anxieties you might assume are from a liberal law professor launching into another rant against President Donald Trump and his administration are coming from an unexpected source.

Arizona Supreme Court justice Clint Bolick told a crowd of lawyers back in May, "When I think of people wrapping themselves in the Constitution while they are simultaneously doing violence to it, it is really scary stuff."

Bolick, a longtime stalwart for the political right, is worried about the direction of the law and the disregard it's getting from the current presidential administration. But he's no lefty.

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He is a former litigator for the libertarian Goldwater Institute and a personal friend of one of the most conservative justices on the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Clarence Thomas. In 2016, then-Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, named Bolick to the bench. He won retention from voters in 2018 and again in 2024.

But as Trump appears to ignore court decisions and high-level administration officials are suggesting suspending the writ of habeas corpus, Bolick is nervous the United States is heading toward authoritarianism.

This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl are joined by Republic reporter Taylor Seely. She spoke candidly with Bolick about why he sees the current moment as so perilous and how people on both sides of the aisle have responded to his callout.

Listen to the episode

The best way to listen is to subscribe to The Gaggle on your favorite podcast app, but you can also stream the full episode below.

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Note: The Gaggle is intended to be heard. But we also offer an AI transcript of the episode script. There may be slight deviations from the podcast audio.

Listen to The Gaggle : Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher

Have a question or comment about Arizona politics?

You can share your thoughts with us at 602-444-0804 or via email here.

Reach the producer Amanda Luberto at aluberto@gannett.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter @amandaluberto and on Bluesky @amandaluberto.

Catch up on previous Gaggle episodes here:

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona Supreme Court justice warns against authoritarianism
Left to right, Jonathan Chapman, president and CEO of Florida Association of Community Health Centers; FHA President and CEO Mary Mayhew; Associated Industries of Florida President and CEO Brewster Bevis; and Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President, Julio Fuentes. (Photo by Christine Sexton/Florida Phoenix)

Self-described conservative business leaders assembled in Tallahassee Wednesday to sound the alarm over the potential loss of federal funds at the end of the year to lower the costs of so-called Obamacare health plans for more than 4.7 million Florida residents.

I have been around this debate over health care coverage for decades and, while the politics of the ACA [Affordable Care Act] have been heated over the years, there should be a unified political voice in support of the federal marketplace and the premiums assistance in Florida, said Florida Hospital Association President and CEO Mary Mayhew.

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Joining Mayhew were Associated Industries of Florida President and CEO Brewster Bevis; Jonathan Chapman, president and CEO of Florida Association of Community Health Centers; and Julio Fuentes, president and CEO of the Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

They each stressed the importance of the enhanced premium tax credits and how the states economy would suffer if Congress allows them to expire at the end of the year.

From the Florida business community, the best way to keep us up and running is to have a healthy workforce, Bevis said. If the enhanced premiums expire, costs would go up for the millions of people who purchase insurance through the federal health care marketplace known as healthcare.gov, he added.

The cost increases, Bevis said, could lead people to drop their health coverage, which would increase the number of uninsured residents in the state.

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That slows down the employees recuperation time, getting healthy again and getting back in the workforce. And like I said, I mean all of these people are part of our family and you care about them, Bevis said.

Advanced premium tax credits have been available since passage of the Affordable Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare. During COVID, Congress agreed to make the premium tax credits more generous. Those enhanced credits lower out-of-pocket costs for the coverage and allow people who earn more money to qualify for the subsidies.

They are set to expire at the end of the year. Red Hills Consulting created Florida Conservatives for Affordable Health Care to help call attention to the issue. A second press conference will be held in Miami next week, Fuentes told reporters.

Florida Conservatives also has launched a letter-writing campaign to urge members of Congress to keep the enhanced subsidies intact.

Uphill battle

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott (photo via the Scott campaign)

It may prove an uphill battle. Of Floridas 28 representatives in the U.S. House, 20 are Republicans and eight are Democrats. Floridas U.S. senators are both Republicans, and senior Sen. Rick Scott, who previously served as governor, ran for that office in 2010 largely on an anti-Obamacare platform. He founded Conservatives for Patients Rights in 2009 to oppose Obamcare.

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The potential elimination of the enhanced advanced premium tax credits looms as residents face double-digit health insurance premiums next year. Fourteen insurers offering individual health plans proposed double-digit rate increases, a review of insurance rates on a federal website shows.

The rates havent been finalized and could change but premium hikes in the coming year are all but guaranteed.

Molina Healthcare is proposing a 41% rate change for calendar year 2026, more than any other plan. According to its supporting rate documents the rate would affect up to more than 90,000 members.

The federal rate review process is expected to be completed by the end of the summer. Open enrollment for 2026 individual coverage under Obamacare begins in the fall.

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Insurers blamed rising costs, utilization of services, and the loss of enhanced advanced premium tax benefits as the reasons behind the rate increase, according to KFF, which reviewed the proposed rates.

Carriers also filed proposed rate increases for plans sold to Floridas small employers for 2026  those with staffs of 50 or fewer. While less steep than the individual policies, many of the carriers requested double-digit or near double-digit increases.

Neighborhood Health Partnership requested the highest overall increase for small group plans with a proposed overall 12.78% rate hike, whereas National Health Insurance Co. came in with the smallest proposed rate increase, at 8.38%.

Neither Floridas top insurance regulator nor the Florida Insurance Consumer Advocates office have warned residents of the impending increases.

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Mayhew said shes worried Florida residents arent aware of the double-digit health insurance premiums hikes headed their way, or the potential loss of the enhanced premium tax credits.

We should be educating the population who depend on this and get them engaged in communicating with their members of Congress. This can be fixed. Plenty of issues federally have been up against a sunset and have been extended. This is not difficult. It must be done.

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America has had a love-hate relationship with organ meat for years. Organ meats, or offal, have been popular in many indigenous cultures around the world for centuries. In the United States they were consumed much more frequently prior to World War II than they are today. Organ meats are exceptionally nutrient dense, much more so than the muscle meat we typically consume, and can still be delicious. If you know how to prepare liver, for instance, it can be very tasty. According to one study published in the Journal of Nutrition, organ meat provides the most nutrition for the lowest cost of any meat. Despite their nutritional value, many types of organ meat are difficult to find in stores. Some, like lung, are banned outright in the United States.

In 1971, the U.S. Department of Agriculture made the decision to end the sale of lungs for human consumption in the U.S. This followed a USDA-commissioned study that concluded livestock lungs were "not fit for human consumption." In 2023, one doctor petitioned the government to lift the ban, submitting evidence suggesting that eating lungs poses no health risk. Several other doctors wrote in support, claiming they had never seen any illness related to eating lungs among communities who still ate the meat regularly. One of the strongest arguments for lung consumption is that it's so common in many other countries. For example, it's a key ingredient in traditional Scottish haggis  of course, the inclusion of lung is also why haggis is banned in America.

Read more: The Most Popular Cuts Of Steak Ranked Worst To Best

Lung Meat Around The World

Several round haggis on display - Tekinturkdogan/Getty Images

Scotland is far from the only country to make use of lungs. In Malaysia and Indonesia, a dish called paru goreng is made with beef lung, and bopis is a spicy Filipino dish made with pork lung. Likewise, German Tottchen stew, Brazilian xinxim de bofe, and Italian pani ca meusa sandwiches all use lung. Lung appears in recipes on just about every continent, showing that the ban is far from a global standard.

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Opponents have argued that lungs function as air filters and may be contaminated with dangerous substances. Some claim that lungs can trap everything from bacteria and viruses to chemicals in smoke and even asbestos. These concerns can make the ban seem reasonable. However, all meat could potentially be infected with disease or contaminants. Infections often spread well beyond the lungs. This is why we inspect all meat. If it's found to be unfit, it's not allowed to be consumed. The argument is that lungs should be treated like any other meat. Contaminated lungs can be discarded, but if they are clean, why not use them?

Although the petition was submitted in 2023, the USDA website lists it as received, but with no further action taken. If the USDA addresses the petition, lung may return to American grocery stores. However, as with other organ meat and the different types of sweetbreads, it may still be hard for most shoppers to find.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
People attend the WorldPride International Rally and March on Washington for Freedom at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in June. Conservative judges might allow lawmakers to reinstate the practice of conversion therapy, which aims to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

Week after week, a teenage Brandon Long sat through counseling sessions that he said framed his identity as a failure.

Now an ordained minister in northern Kentucky, Long told Kentucky state lawmakers about the years he spent undergoing therapy designed to rid him of his same-sex attraction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just imagine yourself being told, session after session, that if you remained as you were, you would be rejected, he said.

Long testified in February before a Kentucky House committee against a Republican-sponsored bill that would cancel Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears 2024 executive order that banned a controversial practice known as conversion therapy for minors.

Conversion therapy is a catchall term for controversial efforts to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. Sometimes called reparative therapy, it can range from talk therapy and religious counseling to electrical shocks, pain-inducing aversion therapy and physical isolation.

The bill, Long told lawmakers, creates a legal shield for conversion therapy, allowing parents to force their children into a practice condemned by every major medical and mental health organization worldwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kentuckys Republican-controlled legislature passed the bill, then overrode the governors veto in March.

Conversion therapy has been denounced by major medical organizations including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. They say its ineffective and harmful and puts LGBTQ+ people at risk for depression, substance use, suicide and other mental health issues.

More than half of states have banned or restricted the practice for underage patients since California became the first to do so in 2012, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit research organization that tracks LGBTQ+-related laws and policies.

But political currents are shifting. Conservative majorities in the courts, in state legislatures and at the federal level have reshaped the legal landscape, opening the door for Republican lawmakers and conservative Christian groups to reinstate a practice that has been roundly discredited by the medical community.

In March, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging Colorados 2019 conversion therapy ban on freedom of speech grounds. The decision marks a change from 2017, when the court refused to hear a challenge to Californias ban, and 2023, when it declined to hear a challenge to Washingtons ban.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The high courts decision, which isnt expected until next year, could reverse  or solidify  conversion therapy bans across the country.

Last month, a Virginia court partially struck down the states 2020 law banning conversion therapy for minors, a win for conservative Christian organizations. GOP lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill to repeal the states ban. And Missouris Republican attorney general has filed suit to overturn local conversion therapy bans.

On the flip side, in Wisconsin, the state Supreme Court cleared the way earlier this year for the state to permanently ban the practice.

The world has changed

While organized attempts to cure homosexuality have been around for centuries, ex-gay groups that promised to change a persons sexual orientation began gaining ground in the 1990s as policy debates arose over same-sex marriage and gay people serving in the military, said Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice in New York City. He is also a clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University whose research has focused on gender and sexuality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But after Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004 and more states followed, the influence of conversion therapy proponents waned.

As of this year, 23 states and Washington, D.C., prevent licensed health care providers from subjecting minors to conversion therapy, according to an analysis of state laws by the Movement Advancement Project. Four more states restrict the practice, such as by not allowing public funding to go toward conversion therapy services.

State laws typically levy fines or discipline the professional licenses of practitioners who try to engage minors in conversion therapy. They dont necessarily prevent clergy or unlicensed counselors from attempting such counseling.

The bans are more of a public statement of acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, rather than a commonly used preventive measure, said Drescher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bans are reinforcements of the belief that if homosexuality is not a mental disorder or disease, theres no reason to pretend you can treat it, and anybody who tries is acting outside the mainstream of science, Drescher told Stateline.

The American Medical Association has written model legislation for state lawmakers who want to ban conversion therapy, a reflection of the broad consensus in the medical community that homosexuality and gender nonconformity are not mental illnesses, said R.J. Mills, a representative from the American Medical Association, in a statement to Stateline.

In the past, some leading psychiatric and psychological associations were hesitant to support state restrictions because they saw the laws as intrusions into the doctor-patient or therapist-patient relationship, Drescher said.

Everybody understands whats at stake now.

 Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in New York City whose research focuses on gender and sexuality

Now, spurred by Trump administration policies that place new restrictions on LGBTQ+ people and the most conservative U.S. Supreme Court in generations, medical organizations are growing more vocal in their opposition to conversion therapy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The world has changed, Drescher said. Everybody understands whats at stake now.

Free speech argument

Conservative legal firms have filed lawsuits in states such as Colorado, Michigan and Virginia on behalf of Christian counselors who say the laws prevent them from practicing according to their faith-based values. They say the bans should be repealed so practitioners wont face losing their careers over providing services informed by their faith.

A Virginia court last month oversaw a consent decree in which Virginia agreed to not fully enforce its 2020 conversion therapy ban and to allow counselors to engage in talk conversion therapy with minors. The plaintiffs in the case were John and Janet Raymond, state-licensed professional counselors in Virginia who were represented by the Founding Freedoms Law Center, an organization that takes on conservative legal causes.

The kind of talk therapy now allowed can involve conversation, prayer and sharing of written materials such as religious scriptures, said Josh Hetzler, the Raymonds attorney, during a public news conference following the court decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With this court order, every counselor in Virginia will now be able to speak freely, truthfully and candidly with clients who are seeking to have those critical conversations about their identity, and to hear faith-based insights from trusted professionals, he said.

Conservative legislators also are citing their Christian faith in their attempts to roll back state bans.

Michigan state Rep. Josh Schriver, a Republican, filed a package of bills last month aimed at repealing a handful of what he calls anti-Christ laws, including Michigans 2023 ban on conversion therapy for youth.

A legislative aide said Schriver wasnt available for an interview, and instead referred Stateline to the recent Substack post he emailed to his constituents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As legislators, were duty-bound to remove statutes that overstep the authority given by our state and federal Constitutions, Schriver said in the post.

Long, the Kentucky minister, said the bans are needed because no one enters conversion therapy willingly.

The only reason a child would go through it is because a trusted authority in their life  a parent, a pastor or a therapist  has told them that they are broken and need to be fixed.

At least five states have a law or policy prohibiting or deterring local-level ordinances that aim to protect youth from conversion therapy.

Some states without such laws are going after municipalities that have banned conversion therapy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Missouri Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey in February sued Jackson County, Missouri, home to Kansas City, challenging the countys 2023 ordinance and Kansas Citys 2019 ordinance, both of which ban licensed counselors from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.

Our children have a right to therapy that allows for honest, unrestricted conversations, free from transgender indoctrination, Bailey said in a statement in February. He called the ordinances a dangerous overreach that violate free speech and religious liberty rights.

A Republican loss

In at least one state, conservatives have hit a legal roadblock.

In Wisconsin, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration has been trying since 2020 to enact a statewide conversion therapy ban proposed by the state agency that oversees provider licensing.

But the ban has been blocked twice by a Republican-controlled legislative committee.

Evers administration sued.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court sided with Evers last month, ruling that the state legislative committee was overreaching and couldnt block the rule.

Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 08: People attend the WorldPride International Rally and March on Washington for Freedom at the Lincoln Memorial on June 08, 2025 in Washington, DC. This year Washington, DC is the host city for the WorldPride 2025 celebration, a global celebration of the LGBTQ community that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the citys first Pride parade; the three-week WorldPride festival has drawn thousands to events across the capital despite lingering concerns about LGBTQ rights under President Trump. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

Week after week, a teenage Brandon Long sat through counseling sessions that he said framed his identity as a failure.

Now an ordained minister in northern Kentucky, Long told Kentucky state lawmakers about the years he spent undergoing therapy designed to rid him of his same-sex attraction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just imagine yourself being told, session after session, that if you remained as you were, you would be rejected, he said.

Long testified in February before a Kentucky House committee against a Republican-sponsored bill that would cancel Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears 2024 executive order that banned a controversial practice known as conversion therapy for minors.

Conversion therapy is a catchall term for controversial efforts to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. Sometimes called reparative therapy, it can range from talk therapy and religious counseling to electrical shocks, pain-inducing aversion therapy and physical isolation.

The bill, Long told lawmakers, creates a legal shield for conversion therapy, allowing parents to force their children into a practice condemned by every major medical and mental health organization worldwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kentuckys Republican-controlled legislature passed the bill, then overrode the governors veto in March.

Conversion therapy has been denounced by major medical organizations including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. They say its ineffective and harmful and puts LGBTQ+ people at risk for depression, substance use, suicide and other mental health issues.

More than half of states have banned or restricted the practice for underage patients since California became the first to do so in 2012, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit research organization that tracks LGBTQ+-related laws and policies.

But political currents are shifting. Conservative majorities in the courts, in state legislatures and at the federal level have reshaped the legal landscape, opening the door for Republican lawmakers and conservative Christian groups to reinstate a practice that has been roundly discredited by the medical community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging Colorados 2019 conversion therapy ban on freedom of speech grounds. The decision marks a change from 2017, when the court refused to hear a challenge to Californias ban, and 2023, when it declined to hear a challenge to Washingtons ban.

The high courts decision, which isnt expected until next year, could reverse  or solidify  conversion therapy bans across the country.

Last month, a Virginia court partially struck down the states 2020 law banning conversion therapy for minors, a win for conservative Christian organizations. GOP lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill to repeal the states ban. And Missouris Republican attorney general has filed suit to overturn local conversion therapy bans.

On the flip side, in Wisconsin, the state Supreme Court cleared the way earlier this year for the state to permanently ban the practice.

The world has changed

While organized attempts to cure homosexuality have been around for centuries, ex-gay groups that promised to change a persons sexual orientation began gaining ground in the 1990s as policy debates arose over same-sex marriage and gay people serving in the military, said Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice in New York City. He is also a clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University whose research has focused on gender and sexuality.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But after Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004 and more states followed, the influence of conversion therapy proponents waned.

As of this year, 23 states and Washington, D.C., prevent licensed health care providers from subjecting minors to conversion therapy, according to an analysis of state laws by the Movement Advancement Project. Four more states restrict the practice, such as by not allowing public funding to go toward conversion therapy services.

State laws typically levy fines or discipline the professional licenses of practitioners who try to engage minors in conversion therapy. They dont necessarily prevent clergy or unlicensed counselors from attempting such counseling.

The bans are more of a public statement of acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, rather than a commonly used preventive measure, said Drescher.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bans are reinforcements of the belief that if homosexuality is not a mental disorder or disease, theres no reason to pretend you can treat it, and anybody who tries is acting outside the mainstream of science, Drescher told Stateline.

The American Medical Association has written model legislation for state lawmakers who want to ban conversion therapy, a reflection of the broad consensus in the medical community that homosexuality and gender nonconformity are not mental illnesses, said R.J. Mills, a representative from the American Medical Association, in a statement to Stateline.

In the past, some leading psychiatric and psychological associations were hesitant to support state restrictions because they saw the laws as intrusions into the doctor-patient or therapist-patient relationship, Drescher said.

Everybody understands whats at stake now.

 Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in New York City whose research focuses on gender and sexuality

Now, spurred by Trump administration policies that place new restrictions on LGBTQ+ people and the most conservative U.S. Supreme Court in generations, medical organizations are growing more vocal in their opposition to conversion therapy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The world has changed, Drescher said. Everybody understands whats at stake now.

Free speech argument

Conservative legal firms have filed lawsuits in states such as Colorado, Michigan and Virginia on behalf of Christian counselors who say the laws prevent them from practicing according to their faith-based values. They say the bans should be repealed so practitioners wont face losing their careers over providing services informed by their faith.

A Virginia court last month oversaw a consent decree in which Virginia agreed to not fully enforce its 2020 conversion therapy ban and to allow counselors to engage in talk conversion therapy with minors. The plaintiffs in the case were John and Janet Raymond, state-licensed professional counselors in Virginia who were represented by the Founding Freedoms Law Center, an organization that takes on conservative legal causes.

The kind of talk therapy now allowed can involve conversation, prayer and sharing of written materials such as religious scriptures, said Josh Hetzler, the Raymonds attorney, during a public news conference following the court decision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With this court order, every counselor in Virginia will now be able to speak freely, truthfully and candidly with clients who are seeking to have those critical conversations about their identity, and to hear faith-based insights from trusted professionals, he said.

Conservative legislators also are citing their Christian faith in their attempts to roll back state bans.

Michigan state Rep. Josh Schriver, a Republican, filed a package of bills last month aimed at repealing a handful of what he calls anti-Christ laws, including Michigans 2023 ban on conversion therapy for youth.

A legislative aide said Schriver wasnt available for an interview, and instead referred Stateline to the recent Substack post he emailed to his constituents.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As legislators, were duty-bound to remove statutes that overstep the authority given by our state and federal Constitutions, Schriver said in the post.

Long, the Kentucky minister, said the bans are needed because no one enters conversion therapy willingly.

The only reason a child would go through it is because a trusted authority in their life  a parent, a pastor or a therapist  has told them that they are broken and need to be fixed.

At least five states have a law or policy prohibiting or deterring local-level ordinances that aim to protect youth from conversion therapy.

Some states without such laws are going after municipalities that have banned conversion therapy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Missouri Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey in February sued Jackson County, Missouri, home to Kansas City, challenging the countys 2023 ordinance and Kansas Citys 2019 ordinance, both of which ban licensed counselors from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.

Our children have a right to therapy that allows for honest, unrestricted conversations, free from transgender indoctrination, Bailey said in a statement in February. He called the ordinances a dangerous overreach that violate free speech and religious liberty rights.

A Republican loss

In at least one state, conservatives have hit a legal roadblock.

In Wisconsin, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration has been trying since 2020 to enact a statewide conversion therapy ban proposed by the state agency that oversees provider licensing.

But the ban has been blocked twice by a Republican-controlled legislative committee.

Evers administration sued.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court sided with Evers last month, ruling that the state legislative committee was overreaching and couldnt block the rule.

Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@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.
People attend the WorldPride International Rally and March on Washington for Freedom at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in June. Conservative judges might allow lawmakers to reinstate the practice of conversion therapy, which aims to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. (Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

Week after week, a teenage Brandon Long sat through counseling sessions that he said framed his identity as a failure.

Now an ordained minister in northern Kentucky, Long told Kentucky state lawmakers about the years he spent undergoing therapy designed to rid him of his same-sex attraction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just imagine yourself being told, session after session, that if you remained as you were, you would be rejected, he said.

Long testified in February before a Kentucky House committee against a Republican-sponsored bill that would cancel Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears 2024 executive order that banned a controversial practice known as conversion therapy for minors.

Conversion therapy is a catchall term for controversial efforts to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. Sometimes called reparative therapy, it can range from talk therapy and religious counseling to electrical shocks, pain-inducing aversion therapy and physical isolation.

The bill, Long told lawmakers, creates a legal shield for conversion therapy, allowing parents to force their children into a practice condemned by every major medical and mental health organization worldwide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kentuckys Republican-controlled legislature passed the bill, then overrode the governors veto in March.

Conversion therapy has been denounced by major medical organizations including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. They say its ineffective and harmful and puts LGBTQ+ people at risk for depression, substance use, suicide and other mental health issues.

More than half of states have banned or restricted the practice for underage patients since California became the first to do so in 2012, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit research organization that tracks LGBTQ+-related laws and policies.

But political currents are shifting. Conservative majorities in the courts, in state legislatures and at the federal level have reshaped the legal landscape, opening the door for Republican lawmakers and conservative Christian groups to reinstate a practice that has been roundly discredited by the medical community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging Colorados 2019 conversion therapy ban on freedom of speech grounds. The decision marks a change from 2017, when the court refused to hear a challenge to Californias ban, and 2023, when it declined to hear a challenge to Washingtons ban.

The high courts decision, which isnt expected until next year, could reverse  or solidify  conversion therapy bans across the country.

Last month, a Virginia court partially struck down the states 2020 law banning conversion therapy for minors, a win for conservative Christian organizations. GOP lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill to repeal the states ban. And Missouris Republican attorney general has filed suit to overturn local conversion therapy bans.

On the flip side, in Wisconsin, the state Supreme Court cleared the way earlier this year for the state to permanently ban the practice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The world has changed

While organized attempts to cure homosexuality have been around for centuries, ex-gay groups that promised to change a persons sexual orientation began gaining ground in the 1990s as policy debates arose over same-sex marriage and gay people serving in the military, said Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice in New York City. He is also a clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University whose research has focused on gender and sexuality.

But after Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004 and more states followed, the influence of conversion therapy proponents waned.

As of this year, 23 states and Washington, D.C., prevent licensed health care providers from subjecting minors to conversion therapy, according to an analysis of state laws by the Movement Advancement Project. Four more states restrict the practice, such as by not allowing public funding to go toward conversion therapy services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State laws typically levy fines or discipline the professional licenses of practitioners who try to engage minors in conversion therapy. They dont necessarily prevent clergy or unlicensed counselors from attempting such counseling.

The bans are more of a public statement of acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, rather than a commonly used preventive measure, said Drescher.

The bans are reinforcements of the belief that if homosexuality is not a mental disorder or disease, theres no reason to pretend you can treat it, and anybody who tries is acting outside the mainstream of science, Drescher told Stateline.

The American Medical Association has written model legislation for state lawmakers who want to ban conversion therapy, a reflection of the broad consensus in the medical community that homosexuality and gender nonconformity are not mental illnesses, said R.J. Mills, a representative from the American Medical Association, in a statement to Stateline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the past, some leading psychiatric and psychological associations were hesitant to support state restrictions because they saw the laws as intrusions into the doctor-patient or therapist-patient relationship, Drescher said.

Now, spurred by Trump administration policies that place new restrictions on LGBTQ+ people and the most conservative U.S. Supreme Court in generations, medical organizations are growing more vocal in their opposition to conversion therapy.

The world has changed, Drescher said. Everybody understands whats at stake now.

Free speech argument

Conservative legal firms have filed lawsuits in states such as Colorado, Michigan and Virginia on behalf of Christian counselors who say the laws prevent them from practicing according to their faith-based values. They say the bans should be repealed so practitioners wont face losing their careers over providing services informed by their faith.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Virginia court last month oversaw a consent decree in which Virginia agreed to not fully enforce its 2020 conversion therapy ban and to allow counselors to engage in talk conversion therapy with minors. The plaintiffs in the case were John and Janet Raymond, state-licensed professional counselors in Virginia who were represented by the Founding Freedoms Law Center, an organization that takes on conservative legal causes.

The kind of talk therapy now allowed can involve conversation, prayer and sharing of written materials such as religious scriptures, said Josh Hetzler, the Raymonds attorney, during a public news conference following the court decision.

With this court order, every counselor in Virginia will now be able to speak freely, truthfully and candidly with clients who are seeking to have those critical conversations about their identity, and to hear faith-based insights from trusted professionals, he said.

Conservative legislators also are citing their Christian faith in their attempts to roll back state bans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Michigan state Rep. Josh Schriver, a Republican, filed a package of bills last month aimed at repealing a handful of what he calls anti-Christ laws, including Michigans 2023 ban on conversion therapy for youth.

A legislative aide said Schriver wasnt available for an interview, and instead referred Stateline to the recent Substack post he emailed to his constituents.

As legislators, were duty-bound to remove statutes that overstep the authority given by our state and federal Constitutions, Schriver said in the post.

Long, the Kentucky minister, said the bans are needed because no one enters conversion therapy willingly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The only reason a child would go through it is because a trusted authority in their life  a parent, a pastor or a therapist  has told them that they are broken and need to be fixed.

At least five states have a law or policy prohibiting or deterring local-level ordinances that aim to protect youth from conversion therapy.

Some states without such laws are going after municipalities that have banned conversion therapy.

Missouri Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey in February sued Jackson County, Missouri, home to Kansas City, challenging the countys 2023 ordinance and Kansas Citys 2019 ordinance, both of which ban licensed counselors from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.

Our children have a right to therapy that allows for honest, unrestricted conversations, free from transgender indoctrination, Bailey said in a statement in February. He called the ordinances a dangerous overreach that violate free speech and religious liberty rights.

A Republican loss

In at least one state, conservatives have hit a legal roadblock.

In Wisconsin, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration has been trying since 2020 to enact a statewide conversion therapy ban proposed by the state agency that oversees provider licensing.

But the ban has been blocked twice by a Republican-controlled legislative committee.

Evers administration sued.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court sided with Evers last month, ruling that the state legislative committee was overreaching and couldnt block the rule.

Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org.
EDINBURGH, Britain, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- The China Focus program opened on Monday at the Edinburgh Art Festival, bringing nine Chinese productions to one of the world's largest arts stages and highlighting the dynamism of contemporary Chinese creativity.

Running from July 30 to Aug. 25, this year's program spans music, dance, theatre, and experimental performance, according to the organizer, the Center for China Shanghai International Arts Festival.

Highlights include the British debut of the China National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra; Personallery 4.0, a fusion of ballroom dance and artificial intelligence inspired by The Peony Pavilion; Zhuangzi's Dream, which combines shadow puppetry with Daoist philosophy; The Pure Blue, a "Fish Dance" performance aimed at raising awareness of ocean conservation.

Neil Semple, deputy head of Creative Industry at the UK's Department for Business and Trade, described Chinese performing arts as a source of vibrant innovation and a driver of cultural collaboration between China and Britain.

Since its inception in 2017, China Focus has brought 35 productions to the Edinburgh festival, drawing over 120,000 audiences with drama, dance drama, musicals, and other genres.

Tang Yingqi, vice president of the Center, said this is the fifth time the organization has led a group of productions to Edinburgh, describing China Focus as a window for overseas audiences to experience China's evolving contemporary art scene.

The Edinburgh Art Festival, which encompasses the International Festival, Fringe, Military Tattoo, International Book Festival, and Visual Arts Festival, attracts tens of thousands of artists from around the world each year.
People attend the WorldPride International Rally and March on Washington for Freedom at the Lincoln Memorial on June 08, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

Week after week, a teenage Brandon Long sat through counseling sessions that he said framed his identity as a failure.

Now an ordained minister in northern Kentucky, Long told Kentucky state lawmakers about the years he spent undergoing therapy designed to rid him of his same-sex attraction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just imagine yourself being told, session after session, that if you remained as you were, you would be rejected, he said.

Long testified in February before a Kentucky House committee against a Republican-sponsored bill that would cancel Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears 2024 executive order that banned a controversial practice known as conversion therapy for minors.

Conversion therapy is a catchall term for controversial efforts to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ+ people. Sometimes called reparative therapy, it can range from talk therapy and religious counseling to electrical shocks, pain-inducing aversion therapy and physical isolation.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bill, Long told lawmakers, creates a legal shield for conversion therapy, allowing parents to force their children into a practice condemned by every major medical and mental health organization worldwide.

Kentuckys Republican-controlled legislature passed the bill, then overrode the governors veto in March.

Conversion therapy has been denounced by major medical organizations including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. They say its ineffective and harmful and puts LGBTQ+ people at risk for depression, substance use, suicide and other mental health issues.

More than half of states, including Pennsylvania, have banned or restricted the practice for underage patients since California became the first to do so in 2012, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit research organization that tracks LGBTQ+-related laws and policies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But political currents are shifting. Conservative majorities in the courts, in state legislatures and at the federal level have reshaped the legal landscape, opening the door for Republican lawmakers and conservative Christian groups to reinstate a practice that has been roundly discredited by the medical community.

In March, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging Colorados 2019 conversion therapy ban on freedom of speech grounds. The decision marks a change from 2017, when the court refused to hear a challenge to Californias ban, and 2023, when it declined to hear a challenge to Washingtons ban.

The high courts decision, which isnt expected until next year, could reverse  or solidify  conversion therapy bans across the country.

Last month, a Virginia court partially struck down the states 2020 law banning conversion therapy for minors, a win for conservative Christian organizations. GOP lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill to repeal the states ban. And Missouris Republican attorney general has filed suit to overturn local conversion therapy bans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On the flip side, in Wisconsin, the state Supreme Court cleared the way earlier this year for the state to permanently ban the practice.

The world has changed

While organized attempts to cure homosexuality have been around for centuries, ex-gay groups that promised to change a persons sexual orientation began gaining ground in the 1990s as policy debates arose over same-sex marriage and gay people serving in the military, said Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in private practice in New York City. He is also a clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University whose research has focused on gender and sexuality.

But after Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004 and more states followed, the influence of conversion therapy proponents waned.

As of this year, 23 states and Washington, D.C., prevent licensed health care providers from subjecting minors to conversion therapy, according to an analysis of state laws by the Movement Advancement Project. Four more states restrict the practice, such as by not allowing public funding to go toward conversion therapy services.

State laws typically levy fines or discipline the professional licenses of practitioners who try to engage minors in conversion therapy. They dont necessarily prevent clergy or unlicensed counselors from attempting such counseling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The bans are more of a public statement of acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, rather than a commonly used preventive measure, said Drescher.

The bans are reinforcements of the belief that if homosexuality is not a mental disorder or disease, theres no reason to pretend you can treat it, and anybody who tries is acting outside the mainstream of science, Drescher told Stateline.

The American Medical Association has written model legislation for state lawmakers who want to ban conversion therapy, a reflection of the broad consensus in the medical community that homosexuality and gender nonconformity are not mental illnesses, said R.J. Mills, a representative from the American Medical Association, in a statement to Stateline.

In the past, some leading psychiatric and psychological associations were hesitant to support state restrictions because they saw the laws as intrusions into the doctor-patient or therapist-patient relationship, Drescher said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Everybody understands whats at stake now.

 Dr. Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in New York City whose research focuses on gender and sexuality

Now, spurred by Trump administration policies that place new restrictions on LGBTQ+ people and the most conservative U.S. Supreme Court in generations, medical organizations are growing more vocal in their opposition to conversion therapy.

The world has changed, Drescher said. Everybody understands whats at stake now.

Free speech argument

Conservative legal firms have filed lawsuits in states such as Colorado, Michigan and Virginia on behalf of Christian counselors who say the laws prevent them from practicing according to their faith-based values. They say the bans should be repealed so practitioners wont face losing their careers over providing services informed by their faith.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Virginia court last month oversaw a consent decree in which Virginia agreed to not fully enforce its 2020 conversion therapy ban and to allow counselors to engage in talk conversion therapy with minors. The plaintiffs in the case were John and Janet Raymond, state-licensed professional counselors in Virginia who were represented by the Founding Freedoms Law Center, an organization that takes on conservative legal causes.

The kind of talk therapy now allowed can involve conversation, prayer and sharing of written materials such as religious scriptures, said Josh Hetzler, the Raymonds attorney, during a public news conference following the court decision.

With this court order, every counselor in Virginia will now be able to speak freely, truthfully and candidly with clients who are seeking to have those critical conversations about their identity, and to hear faith-based insights from trusted professionals, he said.

Conservative legislators also are citing their Christian faith in their attempts to roll back state bans.

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Michigan state Rep. Josh Schriver, a Republican, filed a package of bills last month aimed at repealing a handful of what he calls anti-Christ laws, including Michigans 2023 ban on conversion therapy for youth.

A legislative aide said Schriver wasnt available for an interview, and instead referred Stateline to the recent Substack post he emailed to his constituents.

As legislators, were duty-bound to remove statutes that overstep the authority given by our state and federal Constitutions, Schriver said in the post.

Long, the Kentucky minister, said the bans are needed because no one enters conversion therapy willingly.

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The only reason a child would go through it is because a trusted authority in their life  a parent, a pastor or a therapist  has told them that they are broken and need to be fixed.

At least five states have a law or policy prohibiting or deterring local-level ordinances that aim to protect youth from conversion therapy.

Some states without such laws are going after municipalities that have banned conversion therapy.

Missouri Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey in February sued Jackson County, Missouri, home to Kansas City, challenging the countys 2023 ordinance and Kansas Citys 2019 ordinance, both of which ban licensed counselors from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.

Our children have a right to therapy that allows for honest, unrestricted conversations, free from transgender indoctrination, Bailey said in a statement in February. He called the ordinances a dangerous overreach that violate free speech and religious liberty rights.

A Republican loss

In at least one state, conservatives have hit a legal roadblock.

In Wisconsin, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration has been trying since 2020 to enact a statewide conversion therapy ban proposed by the state agency that oversees provider licensing.

But the ban has been blocked twice by a Republican-controlled legislative committee.

Evers administration sued.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court sided with Evers last month, ruling that the state legislative committee was overreaching and couldnt block the rule.

Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org.

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WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man convicted of charges related to child sex abuse material in 2024 pleaded guilty on Wednesday in a new case.

Read next: 3 teens arrested after reported robbery in Boardman

James Lee Harper, 45, who is housed at Southeastern Correctional Institution in Lancaster, has pleaded guilty to a dozen felony charges dealing with child sex abuse material, according to a news release from the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office.

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Harper, who is already serving an 18-month prison sentence from a 2024 conviction for pandering obscenity and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, will submit to a background investigation before sentencing.

This case involved a February 2024 investigation conducted by Trumbull County Sheriffs deputies, according to prosecutors.

An indictment states that Harper had videos showing girls ages 2 to 8 who were nude or being shown during sexual assaults from December 2023 through March 2024.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. The 37th Guaranty Bank Cooper-Young Festival is back this fall on Saturday, September 13, 2025, featuring handmade art and local music.

Marcella Simien, known for her blend of Memphis soul and New Orleans funk, will headline the festival, bringing her unique Creole artistry to the stage.

The festival will showcase a variety of musical acts across two stages.

On the Guaranty Bank stage, performances will include Alexis Jade & the Gemstones at 11:15 a.m., Alice Hasen & The Blaze at 12:15 p.m., Organ Failure at 1:15 p.m., The Downsprouts at 2:15 p.m., Cloudland Canyon at 3:15 p.m., Nubia Yasin at 4:15 p.m., and Marcella Simien as the headliner at 5:15 p.m.

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The Mempho Presents stage will feature Jas Roa at 12:30 p.m., Recent Future at 1:30 p.m., Joybomb at 2:30 p.m., Jack O at 3:30 p.m., and Blvck Hippie at 4:30 p.m.

The Guaranty Bank Cooper-Young Festival is full of vibrant music and art, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Memphis. Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup and a festive atmosphere in the historic district.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Tennessee authorities are looking for a man suspected of dragging an elderly womans dog out of her trailer and shooting it dead, just hours after the dog got into a fight with another animal.

Detectives have issued an arrest warrant for Gavin Palpallatoc after he allegedly barged into the home of a terminally ill, 78-year-old woman at the Redwood Estates mobile home park, in Memphis, on Friday.

The 31-year-old is now wanted for aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated cruelty to animals and aggravated abuse of a vulnerable adult, according to a release from Memphis police.

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Palpallatoc was allegedly instructed to kill the dog by his friend Jane Reynolds, 52, who has also been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.

Detectives have issued an arrest warrant for Gavin Palpallatoc after he barged into the home of a terminally ill, 78-year-old woman at the Redwood Estates mobile home park, in Memphis. Palpallatoc allegedly shot the elderly womans dog (Google Maps)

According to Memphis police, Reynolds said two animals had gotten into a small fight earlier that day in the elderly woman's backyard.

The owner of the deceased dog wished to remain anonymous but said Reynolds called her after the fight and told her "I'm gonna call my friend to come put that dog down." She also showed officers text messages between her and Reynolds, who had told her "I can't stop whatever is going to happen. I'm sorry."

Later on, Palpallatoc entered her home and took her dog, a Pit Bull mix named Cash.

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"We were sitting on the couch just watching TV, and this guy comes in and pulls him from my couch to the floor, to the porch," the woman said, adding that she had heard at least 12 gunshots, before Palpallatoc fled the scene.

"He emptied the clip," she told police. "Something has got to be missing somewhere for him to come and kill that dog."

A witness told police that she heard the gunfire and saw suspect Palpallatoc walking towards Reynolds with a gun by his side. He later drove from the scene in a green Honda CRV.

According to WREG, the dog's owner is battling terminal cancer and adopted Cash  a stray  five years ago, after he wandered into the mobile home park.

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"We got a good dog," she told the outlet. "He was my life.

"I was trying to rehome him and anything I could do and keep him with me as long as I could, and I had really been suffering over that and the fact that what if I go before he goes, what's going to happen."
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, has requested Attorney General Pam Bondi to have the Department of Justice investigate Texas House Democrats, Political Action Committees and special interest groups for potential violations of federal public corruption and election law.

Ten days ago, more than 50 House Democrats fled Texas to deny the Texas House a quorum, halting legislative business during a special session. Multiple lawsuits have been filed against House members to have them removed from office. Several cases are before the Texas Supreme Court and courts in California and Illinois.

Cornyn is requesting the FBI to investigate former U.S. Rep. Robert (Beto) ORourkes PAC, Powered By People, as well as special interest groups, and individuals who are providing funding and assistance to members of the Texas House of Representatives who fled the state to stall the legislative process.

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This is Cornyns second request for an FBI investigation in a week. The first one was granted last week to assist with locating and potentially arresting absconding Democrats in other states, The Center Square reported.

On August 3, 2025, over 50 Texas legislators fled the State with the express purpose of preventing a quorum from meeting during the current special session, thus precluding the House from taking any legislative activity. The legislation which these irresponsible members knowingly blocked includes assistance to victims of the Kerr County floods. The special session will end in a matter of days, at which point, assistance to flood victims and other needed measures will go unaddressed. The absconding House members dereliction of duty is truly shameful, Cornyn wrote in a letter to Bondi.

He says the Democrats who fled didnt randomly leave on August 3. Their flight was pre-planned months in advance and coordinated with outside individuals, special interest groups, and politicians from other states. Their devious and deceitful plan to derail the special session included coordinating funding drives giving, at an absolute minimum, the appearance that a sinister quid pro quo was reached between the fleeing House members and outside interest groups.

Cornyn says a large number of Democrats traveled in luxurious private jets paid for by Beto ORourkes Political Action Committee. And since their arrivals in other states, not only have the House members lavish food, lodging, and other expenses been covered by these special interest groups, but the groups are also paying the fines which House members are liable for under Texas House rules for ignoring their required duties and skipping the special session.

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He asked the FBI to investigate the entities funding this charade, citing news reports of PACs tying ORourke and megadonors like George Soros to funding their efforts.

The PACs and outside groups appear to be acting in violation of federal public corruption and election laws. For example, if money, gifts, or other assistance which the absconding House members were not entitled tosuch as flights, meals, and hotel lodgingswere accepted in return for the members using their official positions to prevent a quorum from meeting, then the legislators may have committed honest services fraud, Cornyn said.

The laws he claims they may have broken include 18 U.S.C.  1346, Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right, in violation of 18 U.S.C.  1951, and the federal Travel Act.

Because state lawmakers crossed state lines, if they did so with the intent to break either federal or state laws, they may have violated the Interstate and Foreign Travel in Aid of Racketeering Enterprises statute, also known as the Travel Act, 18 U.S.C.  1952, he said.

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He also reiterated a claim made by Gov. Greg Abbott that the lawmakers who are fundraising to thwart legislative activity likely broke Texas state bribery and corruption laws. Abbott directed the Texas Rangers to investigate potential bribery violations. He also included bribery concerns in his petition to remove Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, from office.

Wu refutes the allegation, The Center Square reported.

Cornyn says Democrats who accepted benefits such as travel, food, and lodging expenses in return for absconding, and the funders who provided these corrupt funds likely violated state penal codes. If they did, they are subject to the provisions of the Travel Act, Cornyn said.

If absconding Democrats only violated federal law, then individuals, PACs and special interest groups assisting their criminal acts still may face liability since they either aided and abetted the criminal activity, 18 U.S.C.  2, or are co-conspirators to it, e.g., 18 U.S.C.  371, he said.

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Cornyn also notes that if PAC funds were used to pay for personal expenses unrelated to elections or campaigns, the entities funding absconding Democrats may have violated campaign finance laws. He asked the DOJ to work with the Federal Election Commission to investigate this as well.

Democrats deny the allegations. ORourke is currently challenging a lawsuit filed against him by the state. In this case, a judge issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting him from fundraising, which he has refused to do, The Center Square reported.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Cosentinos Food Stores announced Wednesday that it has purchased Marshs Sun Fresh, located at 4001 Mill Street in Kansas Citys Westport neighborhood.

The store will close Wednesday, Aug. 13, at 7 p.m. and reopen Thursday, Aug. 14, at 8 a.m. under Cosentinos ownership.

Sun Fresh near 31st, Prospect in Kansas City closes its doors

Since 1948, Cosentinos has continued the long-standing values of our first generation of owners, with outstanding customer service in an exceptionally clean environment, John Cosentino, owner and vice president of Cosentino Group Inc., said in a statement.

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Congratulations to the Marsh family for their years of service to Westport and the surrounding communities. As a family-owned company, we are excited to be a part of the Westport community.

Cosentinos said customers can expect the same friendly service and a wide variety of fresh, quality products at a great value which have long been hallmark of the Cosentinos name.

Cosentinos said it is also pleased to welcome the current Marsh employees to the Cosentinos family, so shoppers will continue to see the familiar, friendly faces they know and trust.

The company operates 32 grocery stores under the banners of Price Chopper, Apple Market, Sun Fresh and Cosentinos Market with most locations in the Kansas City area.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Troubled Thames Water is to warn that the cost of a new reservoir in Oxfordshire has rocketed to as much as 7.5bn, more than three times the previous estimate.

In an announcement expected as soon as Thursday, Thames will blame soaring construction costs at the site near Abingdon for busting the 2.2bn budget. So far only preliminary engineering works have been undertaken.

The extra burden is expected to be piled onto households, which are already facing a 35pc increase in water bills over the next five years. The reservoirs costs are due to be recovered from Thames Waters 16 million customers across London and the South East.

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Thames Water is pressing ahead with plans to build one of Britains first reservoirs in 30 years after Rachel Reeves threw her weight behind the project earlier this year.

The Chancellor vowed to take on the blockers as she pledged nine new reservoirs across the UK, including Abingdon, which will be capable of holding 150 billion litres of water in an area the size of Gatwick Airport.

In its latest assessment, Thames will warn ministers that the project will cost between 5.5bn and 7.5bn, up from earlier estimates of 2.2bn.

The overrun will cast fresh doubt on Britains ability to deliver major projects, with HS2 and Hinkley Point C already expected years late and tens of billions of pounds over-budget.

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The new reservoirs ballooning cost will attract further criticism to the project. It was controversially fast-tracked through planning approval last year without a public inquiry, having been labelled by ministers as a nationally significant infrastructure project.

The move triggered a High Court challenge from local campaigners, which was rejected by the High Court last month.

The Government has backed the scheme owing to increased water demand across Britain, with ministers warning this week that five areas across Britain are now officially in drought.

However, Derek Stork, the chairman of the Group Against Reservoir Development campaign group, said the latest revelations regarding costs will ring alarm bells.

It is a disgrace

He said: It comes as no surprise to say that this increase has happened.

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We predicted this would happen, but even I am still astonished by 7.5bn. They have got to come clean. It is a disgrace.

This is an example of how bad the regulatory process is. Ofwat and Defra have looked at this and weve been saying its been undercosted, yet they have just not investigated this in detail.

Thames Water is leading the Abingdon project, also known as the South East Strategic Reservoir Option (Sesro), with Affinity Water and Southern Water also involved.

It will be built on farmland between the villages of Steventon, East Hanney and Drayton, with works expected to be completed in 2040.

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Residents around Abingdon have repeatedly raised concerns that the reservoir could increase flooding in the town and surrounding villages.

It comes as Thames Water scrambles to avoid nationalisation.

It emerged this week that Steve Reed, the Environment Secretary, has appointed City insolvency advisers to prepare for the companys potential collapse, as it struggles under a 17bn debt pile.

Its future was cast into fresh doubt in June after private equity firm KKR pulled out of a 4bn rescue deal.

The companys creditors have put forward an alternative 17bn rescue plan, but the bailout is contingent on regulators agreeing to waive hundreds of millions of pounds in sewage pollution fines.

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Mr Reed has previously suggested this would not happen, making a taxpayer-backed special administration appear increasingly likely. It is estimated that a state bailout would cost households as much as 4bn.

On Wednesday night, Nevil Muncaster, strategic water resources director of Thames Water, said: Working through the development process, we are applying lessons from other major projects in the UK, wherever we are able. This has included providing an update on what we expect the reservoir to cost as early as possible and well before construction, when it becomes difficult to adapt to revisions.

The reservoir is a critical piece of infrastructure for meeting future water demand in the South East and remains one of the preferred options in our Water Resource Management Plan, which sets out our strategy to protect water supply for the next 50 years and beyond.

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The United States could soon have its first-ever nuclear-powered airport.

In an industry first, Denver International Airport (DEN) has announced it will be launching a study examining the feasibility of adding a new type of nuclear power source called a small modular reactor (SMR) to its campus.

This new, more modern type of reactor is thought to be a safe, scalable, and potentially more cost-effective method of harnessing nuclear power, Denver officials say. These compact nuclear reactors can generate up to 300 MW(e) of power per unit, plus theyre more flexible than traditional reactors. Given their smaller footprint, SMRs can be sited on locations not suitable for larger nuclear power plants, according to information from the International Atomic Energy Agency.

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The study is estimated to cost $1.25 million and will take between six to 12 months to complete. However, the launch has been temporarily delayed to allow time for the Denver Airport to incorporate feedback from City Council and conduct some initial community outreach," a DEN spokesperson tells Conde Nast Traveler.

When the study does get underway, airport officials hope to learn how much of the facility's power could run on nuclear energy and if SMR is a viable option to meet the airports long-term needs. The research should also help determine the cost of running the reactors, potential funding options, the risks involved, and what type of government regulation would be needed.

We recognize that the technology is still relatively new and there is much to learn, which is why DEN will conduct a feasibility study to gather facts and information about whether SMRs could potentially help the airport meet its energy demand and clean energy goals in the future, as well as potential challenges, Denver Airport CEO Phil Washington said in a statement. We know that anything we would do would require significant investment and that SMRs are complex. So, we are keeping an open mind, learning more and continuing to responsibly plan for the airports future.

Denver is the third busiest airport in the US and the sixth busiest in the world, and passenger numbers are only expected to grow in the future. The airport estimates it will see 120 million annual passengers by 2045.

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A resource like nuclear energy could help the airport meet increasing traveler demand while also shrinking its carbon output. As we plan for a growing population and a changing climate, we must carefully assess all zero-emission options that can deliver reliable power, while weighing potential costs and environmental impacts to ensure a sustainable future, Elizabeth Babcock, executive director of Denvers Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency, said in a statement.

More airports around the country are investing in renewable energy, with solar panels being the most popular technology. Denver officials say that nuclear power would be a reliable energy source to complement the airport's 100 acres of solar panelsas well as potential energy from wind or geothermal powerall of which can be intermittent, weather-dependent power sources.

Other states and airports will almost certainly be watching the results of Denver Airports nuclear power study to see if they can apply similar technology to their facilities. The US set a nationwide goal in 2021 for the aviation sector to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The FAA has since awarded funding grants for solar panel installation and other sustainable technology initiatives, such as electric buses, at various airports across the US.

Earlier this year, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a bill into law that named nuclear power as a clean energy source, paving the way for new nuclear energy projects in the state. The law allows projects such as this to receive local funding grants that were previously reserved for renewable sources like wind and solar power.

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In order for more airports around the country to follow Denvers lead, states would need to pass similar legislation; in February of this year, 11 states signed an initiative to advance nuclear projects in their states. That coalition, called the Advanced Nuclear First Mover Initiative, was signed by governors in New York, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Wyoming, Louisiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler

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Councils are using robots to answer phone calls from residents despite raising council tax by the maximum amount in April.

Local authorities are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to listen to and answer phone calls in a bid to save millions of pounds each year.

However, the loss of human interaction has not resulted in savings for taxpayers, who have seen bills rise by up to 5pc.

The Telegraph has identified six councils where residents can expect to have their calls answered by AI  with one council claiming their use of bots would save up to 12.5m a year.

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Campaigners questioned why savings were not being passed on to taxpayers, while others criticised the decline in human interaction  describing the switch to AI as depressing and demoralising.

All of the councils that have introduced AI assistants to respond to phone calls said that human staff remained in their call centres and that the software was designed to refer complex queries to human handlers.

Telford and Wrekin Council, an authority that provides services to 180,000 people in Shropshire, created its AI assistant Ask Tom in 2021. It initially operated as a chatbot to help answer questions on its website.

Last year it expanded the softwares capabilities so that Tom would be able to answer, listen, speak and send information directly to residents devices.

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Despite this, Telford and Wrekin Council increased council tax by 5pc in April, meaning the bill for a Band D property rose from 1,536 to 1,613.

Combined with additional charges for the police and crime commissioner, fire rescue authority and parish council tax, residents faced a 5.34pc rise, an increase of 109 for a Band D home.

Derby City Council created Darcie and Ali, AI bots to answer phone calls and respond to website enquiries, in 2023. The firm behind the software claimed the AI had so far managed 750,000 queries and saved the authority 200,000 each year.

The council said it also had plans to expand the roles of its AI bots so that they could process emails more quickly and recover outstanding debts. The council estimated it would save 12.5m annually once fully implemented.

AI answering over half of phone calls

Teething problems remain, however, with BBC Derbyshire recently revealing the AI-run phone lines struggled to understand local dialects and had incorrectly rejected questions about council services.

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A spokesman for the council said the technology was successfully answering 58pc of calls after a recent update.

AI bots for Derby City Council reportedly struggled to understand local dialects and incorrectly rejected questions about services - eye35 / Alamy Stock Photo

The minority Labour-led authority attempted to pass a 5pc council tax increase this year  but after opposition parties rejected the rise, the authority settled on a 4pc increase. It pushed council tax bills for a Band D property up from 1,551 to 1,629 a year.

Breckland Council in Norfolk launched Bobbie, the Phone Bot last year. The Conservative-run district council agreed a 4.36pc increase for taxpayers this year.

Next month, South Norfolk Council and Broadland District Council will introduce their own AI bots to answer routine enquiries over the phone, despite some councillors fearing the technology could be irritating for those who want to speak to a human.

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Hillingdon Council in London has also announced plans to roll out its own AI bot to answer calls, in an attempt to enhance resident services.

Depressing and demoralising

Silver Voices, a campaign group for older people, said older and vulnerable residents would suffer as a result.

Dennis Reed, of the non-profit, said: People are increasingly complaining that they are getting less and less in terms of council services but more and more council tax. This is another aspect of that.

There is something worth preserving in a human conversation.

Even in a short telephone call you can form a personal relationship on that particular issue and know that somebody is being sympathetic and listening to you, answering your difficult questions. That cant be done through artificial intelligence.

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Certainly for older people, who may be lonely anyway and dont talk to human beings very often, to face this every time they make a call to an organisation like the local authority is depressing and demoralising.

Joanna Marchong, of the TaxPayers Alliance, added: While councils are quick to increase bills to the maximum, theyre replacing frontline staff with AI chatbots. If these cost-cutting measures are genuinely saving millions, taxpayers should be seeing that reflected in lower bills and better services.

Ministers must ensure councils deliver value for money and remember that local services are for people, not just for the balance sheet.

Telford and Wrekin councillor Zona Hannington said: By using technology to handle these relatively simple queries, our staff can concentrate on more important issues, meaning we can help more people, more rapidly. It makes us more efficient and more effective for our residents, who can now access a wider range of council services 24 hours a day.

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Hardyal Dhindsa, a councillor for Derby City Council, said: We have had years of national cuts to local government funding, which has meant reductions to services and jobs. AI has helped to mitigate the effects of this in Derby, compared with other councils.

We actively consult our communities to test both our digital and non-digital services for inclusion. Darcie ensures that residents can access information and support at any time without having to wait in a call queue.

A spokesman for South Norfolk Council and Broadland District Council said: We understand the concerns raised about ensuring our services remain accessible to everyone, particularly older residents. We want to be absolutely clear: residents will always have the option to speak to a person. The virtual agent is an additional channel, not a replacement for our valued customer service team.

Breckland and the Hillingdon local authority were approached for comment.

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A councillor has been cleared of strangling his partner after a row at their home while watching television but he has been convicted of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Ashley Farrall, who represents Macclesfield Central ward on Cheshire East Council, denied both offences.

After an eight-day trial at Chester Crown Court, jurors acquitted Farrall of intentionally strangling his partner on 14 November 2024 but found the 43-year-old guilty of the other charge.

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Farrall, of Ellenbrook Road in Manchester, will be sentenced during the week commencing 29 September.

The court heard that an argument had broken out between Farrall and his partner - who had both been drinking beer and wine - while they watched Married At First Sight.

The row continued upstairs as their baby son slept in the adjoining room.

Jurors then heard different accounts of what happened next.

'She lunged at me'

Farrall's partner alleged he attacked her.

But he denied this and said she had attacked him.

He told the court: "She lunged at me... threw a glass at me... and punched me in the face."

Farrall said the "horrific" difficult birth of their son had taken a toll on his partner's mental wellbeing.

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The court heard that the charge of attempting to pervert the course of justice related to what happened in the weeks following the argument.

Farrall's bail conditions meant he was not allowed to contact his partner.

But jurors heard Farrall gave her a phone on which they could communicate.

They also met several times, including at Poynton Pool in Cheshire and near her mother's house in north Wales, where they discussed whether she would withdraw her statement.

She told the court she had wanted Farrall to plead guilty and "admit to what he had done".

Farrall refused and told the court he had "always maintained he was not guilty".

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  Topeka City Councilmember Marcus Miller joined the 27 News Morning show and answered questions about the councils progress on the sale of Hotel Topeka.

Miller said that signing a deal with Endeavor Hotel Group is likely the direction the City Council will go.

Hoping all the parties and everyone involved, agencies come together to make this happen, Miller said.

There have been several offers made on Hotel Topeka. 27 News asked why the deal with Endeavor Hotel Group is moving forward. Miller said that the council wanted to make sure that the city gets the most money out of the deal as possible.

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Endeavor Hotel Group CEO talks vision for Hotel Topeka

Again this isnt a situation that none of us necessarily wanted to be in, but we are, Miller said. I mean I know for sure, I wasnt there. But Im not putting the blame on the past council.

Miller said the Hotel Topeka dealings hasnt been smooth but that the city would get the majority of the tax dollars back by the end of the deal.

27 News asked about another offer made on Hotel Topeka by 1717 Realty Corp for $2 million that would see the hotel branded as a Wyndham Hotel. In July, the City of Topeka rejected the offer. Miller was the only councilmember to vote against rejecting the offer.

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It probably didnt provide enough long-term, Miller said. Because that was my thing was trying to get as much tax dollars back as possible. It may have been less up front but long term it wasnt as much money back.

Kansas Board of Education votes to change scale for state assessments

The Letter of Intent is contingent upon Shawnee County agreeing to provide Endeavor with a long-term management agreement for the nearby Maner Conference Center along with the county investing around $6 million in the rehabilitation of the center. We asked what would happen if the county doesnt invest the $6 million.

Then we address it as it comes across, Miller said. Im not going to put that on the county. I think theres some times where its easy to throw a softball and lob back and forth, and I dont like doing that.

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On Tuesday, city leaders heard from Endeavor CEO Roy Arnold on the groups plans for the hotel. The city has spent $12.2 million on the hotel since purchasing it in 2023.

City leaders in the Topeka Development Corporation (TDC) cast eight votes in favor of allowing the city manager to sign the letter of intent on July 15. One member of the TDC abstained from the vote.

The City of Topeka said Endeavor Hotel Group plans to purchase the hotel for $1 million with the rest of the citys investment into the building being paid off through taxes raised by a community improvement district (CID) and transient guest tax (TGT) over the next 20 years, according to the citys press release.

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.

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Swimming pool temperatures have been turned down as councils grapple with rising energy costs.

Some 15 per cent of councils have lowered the temperature of pools they run across leisure centres and other facilities since 2020, according to a freedom of information response.

The Local Government Association (LGA) linked the reduction to the financially fragile position of authorities.

Five of the authorities laid part of the blame on sustainability and net zero targets, the BBC reported, with critics saying they feared it could put people off swimming.

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Tiffany Watson, who used to swim to help her muscular dystrophy, muscle weakness that worsens over time, urged councils to reconsider the move.

Mrs Watson, 55, said: Anyone with muscle wasting, theyre slower in the water.

Being slower, you get colder quicker.

She claimed she told staff the pool was too cold but was met with a number of excuses.

Out of 256 councils across the country, 39 admitted they had reduced the temperature of their pools in the past five years.

Some 33 local councils had reduced it permanently, in at least one main pool, or a learner pool.

However, no council lowered the temperature below the guidelines issued by the Pool and Water Treatment Advisory Group, the standards body for swimming pools in the UK.

Colder pools could put people off swimming, critics have warned - SolStock

South West England had the highest percentage of councils that had reduced their pool temperatures, with 27 per cent of authorities making the change.

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More than 30 of the local authorities admitted they had done so due to energy price hikes following the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

The price of electricity has risen since 2019, more than doubling in that period from 12.9 p/kWh to 28.39 p/kWh in 2023.

A spokesperson for the LGA said that rising energy and operational costs had forced councils to reduce, or close altogether, their leisure facilities.

A Department of Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said the government was absolutely committed to building a healthier nation and reducing pressure on our NHS.

The department said that they were working with the sport and leisure sector as part of a 400m pledge to support grass roots facilities, promote health, wellbeing and community cohesion and help remove the barriers to physical activity for under-represented groups.

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.




NEED TO KNOW

Brooklyn Carroll was killed and her friend's mom had to have her leg amputated below the knee after being struck by a boat in a N.C. lake on Aug. 2, authorities allege

Police say Quentin Kight, 40, was driving his girlfriend's boat while drunk

Investigators found 39 empty alcoholic seltzer cans in the boat, the prosecutor alleges





A North Carolina boat owner and her boyfriend, who was driving the boat while intoxicated, are facing murder charges after crashing into swimmers on a lake  killing a 10-year-old girl and severely injuring her friends mother, authorities allege.

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On Monday, Aug. 11, Quinten Kight, 40, and Annemarie Flanigan, 56, were indicted by a grand jury for second-degree murder in the death of Brooklyn Mae Carroll, 10, according to online court records.

The new charges stem from Saturday, Aug. 2, at 4:35 p.m., when Carroll, her friend, and the friends mother, Jennifer Stehle, 41, were swimming behind an anchored boat in Harris Lake in Chatham County, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Captain Nathan P. Green said at a press conference on Thursday, Aug. 7.

While Kight was driving the boat, he looked backward instead of forward, and plowed into the swimmers, according to the arrest warrant obtained by PEOPLE.

Kight was allegedly looking back at someone being pulled by his boat when his boat careened toward the swimmers, Green said.

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Carroll and Stehle were struck by the boats propeller, causing serious and even fatal injuries, he said at the press conference.

Carroll succumbed to her injuries that day, he said.

Stehle was severely injured and airlifted to the hospital, where her leg was amputated below the knee, CBS 17 and ABC11 reported.

Kight was arrested and initially charged with felony operating a motor vessel while under the influence, unintentionally causing serious injury to another person, according to the arrest warrant.

Investigators allegedly found 39 empty alcoholic seltzer cans in the boat, Chatham County District Attorney Jeff Nieman said in court on Aug. 4.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

On Aug. 5, police arrested Flanigan, who was present and on board when Kight allegedly struck the swimmers, said Green.

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Related: Man Crashes Boat into Group of Swimmers While Intoxicated, Leaving Girl, 10, Dead and Woman Injured

She is also charged with one count of allowing Kight to drive the boat while impaired resulting in injury and death, and one count of aiding and abetting Kight in boating while impaired.

WRAL News reported that Kight has a pending hit-and-run charge from two years ago, and a previous DWI conviction in 2009 out of New Mexico.

A GoFundMe page was created to help with Stehles medical costs, while another GoFundMe was set up to help Carroll's parents with funeral expenses and memorial arrangements.

Attorneys for Kight and Flanigan could not immediately be reached for comment.

They are scheduled to return to court in September.



Read the original article on People
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia has granted a motion to end a consent decree of more than 47 years, which has governed the City of Norfolks hiring practices in the police and fire department.

A lawsuit filed by the Justice Department in 1978 accused Norfolk Police and Norfolk Fire-Rescue of engaging in systematic discrimination against Black and female applicants in its employment practices. The City did not oppose the motion.

Nearly half a century after it was entered, the Decree is no longer necessary or legally justifiable as a temporary measure to remedy employment discrimination that may have occurred long ago, said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. The City fully complied with the decree in its hiring, recruitment, and other employment matters, and the federal government should release supervision and return control to local authorities.

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The motion marks the end of one of the nations oldest active employement-related consent decrees arising from DOJ civil rights enforcement.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Some regions across the U.S. are seeing increases in COVID-19 cases, amid the rise of a new strain and continued dominance of variant NB.1.8.1.

Cases of XFG, which is a combination of variants F.7 and LP.8.1.2, are on the rise  accounting for about 14% of cases nationwide for the week ending June 21, the latest data available.

However, variant NB.1.8.1 variant remained the most common variant in the U.S. as of June 21, according to USA TODAY. It's worth noting the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is using longer timeframes for its variant tracking due to low reporting, so the most recent data is from late June.

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As cases tick up, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services is still recommending the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women and all residents 6 months and older, despite rollback on federal guidance.

Here's what to know about the current landscape of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin:

Is Wisconsin reporting a high number of COVID-19 cases?

There's been a slight increase in state DHS laboratory testing and emergency department data, though officials told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel overall activity was "minimal" Aug. 1.

For the week ending Aug. 2, 190 COVID-19 tests came back positive in Wisconsin  or 6.4% of the 2,980 ran, DHS data shows. That's up from 2% of positive cases for the week ending June 28.

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Moreover, about 0.3% of emergency department visits showed a positive COVID-19 diagnosis for the week ending Aug. 2, up from 0.1% a month prior, state data shows.

More: Do you need an updated COVID-19 vaccine? Here's what Wisconsin health officials recommend

Where are the most COVID-19 cases being reported in the U.S.?

Western and southern states, like Texas, California and Arkansas, saw higher percentages of positive COVID-19 tests during the week ending Aug. 2., USA TODAY reported, citing CDC data.

More: With a new COVID variant on the rise, which US states have the most cases?

Mary Walrath-Holdridge of USA TODAY contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: COVID-19 cases on the rise slightly in Wisconsin
CHICAGO (WGN)  Chicago Public Schools leaders presented a budget proposal on Wednesday that closes an approximately $734 million deficit by laying off crossing guards, custodians, cafeteria workers and central office workers.

The proposal says the district will refinance debt, spend down a reserve fund and rely on a $25 million philanthropy grant and nearly $380 million in TIF surplus from the city.

$175 million of the budget deficit is due to a pension payment. In the proposal, CPS agreed to front the pension payment but only if it receives more funding from the state or TIF surplus from the city.

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The Chicago Teachers Union released a statement on the proposal saying in part:

If the CPS budget doesnt give the Board the *option* to borrow in the future, then if their math doesnt come together and new revenue doesnt arrive in time, Chicagos students and educators will face devastating mid-year cuts and furloughs that everyone is against.

Need school supplies? These free events in Chicago have you covered

Next Tuesday, CPS will hold two public hearings on the budget proposal. The school board will hold a vote on Aug. 28. By law, a new budget must be passed by Aug. 29.

Cut or invest

On Tuesday, Mayor Brandon Johnson said only two choices remain.

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Were either going to cut or invest, Johnson said. Those are our options right now.

The Chicago Teachers Union, meanwhile, is calling on Gov. JB Pritzker to convene a special session of the General Assembly to address the deficit in state funding. So far, there has been no commitment from the governor or state lawmakers.

We wont let it stand: Chicago Teachers Union calls for state aid amid budget deficit

A report from the states Board of Education last week showed CPS would need $1.6 billion more in state funding to provide an adequate education to students.

I want a fully funded public education system, Johnson said. Parents around the city want that. Theyre advocating for it. Theyre also advocating for $1.6 billion that the state of Illinois rightfully owes the children of this city.

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Lawsuit alleges CPS violated policy hiring security guard now accused of sexual assault

CPS leadership and several city officials met last with without King. Some suggestions made were taking out a $200 million loan and asking for new state funding, while also accepting responsibility for a controversial $175 million pension payment.

CPS is facing the pressure to make that payment, which shifted from the city to CPS in 2020 and would cover non-teacher staff. Additionally, the district is already facing an existing $9 million in long-term debt.

King has reportedly resisted the mayors plan to take out a high-interest loan. The interim CPS CEO wants to address the approximately $734 million budget shortfall by refinancing the debt, making more cuts and getting money from the city and state.

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In an interview with WGN News last month, King said she wants to avoid classroom cuts as much as possible.

So, everything is on the table, she said when asked by how she would address the budget shortfall. Everything is on the table. However, everything is on the table centered around students.

Interim CPS CEO says top priority is passing budget

The debate over the districts finances comes at the same time Johnson is looking for ways to plug the citys more than $1 billion budget gap.

Already cut to the bone

Community leaders and organizers gathered Wednesday, calling on CPS to explore other options to address the budget shortfall, aside from cutting staff or programs, and asking the state for help.

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Were calling on the state legislature, were calling on Gov. Pritzker, to declare that our schools are in a disaster, Chicago resident Ieliot Jackson said. Were asking for a state of emergency to be declared so that our children dont have to be the burden-bearers for a deficit they didnt create.

Dr. Angelique Orr, Westside Rising Director, said our schools have already been cut to the bone.

Our children have already suffered because of displacement, continuous displacement, that keeps them unstable in housing, in food, in every resource that we say we all deserve, Orr said. Were calling on our public officials, our government  we appreciate the funding  but were saying, no cuts to Black and brown schools across Chicago and across this state.

Were saying, we need to invest in our young people. If we dont invest in our young people, we dont invest in our future.

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Custodial workers also rallied Wednesday, saying they were blindsided by cuts and asking CPS to fully staff schools to keep them clean.

Our kids will be walking into classrooms that arent prepared, that arent cleaned, Gregory King, a member of Service Employees International Union Local 1, said. Parents will be worried whether their kids are in a healthy environment, or a safe environment.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Izabela Miltko-Ivkovich of SEIU Local 1 said custodians are the heart of our schools.

So CPS, we have one clear demand: Think about what youre doing, think about what youre doing for our children, think about what youre doing for their schools, Miltko-Ivkovich said. Come to the table, come up with a clear transition plan, and dont do it behind closed doors.

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Following public comments at Wednesdays meeting and then a recess, the Board of Education is slated to discuss a resolution to adopt a fiscal budget for the 2025-26 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 WGN-TV.
CHERRY CREEK, Colo. (KDVR)  Denver police have identified a suspect in a string of car break-ins at a Cherry Creek apartment complex  the first time investigators have publicly named someone in the case since FOX31 began reporting on the crimes in June.

Police say they are looking for 34-year-old Zackary Steele, who has a criminal history and an active arrest warrant. Investigators believe he is tied to multiple break-ins at the Griffis Apartments, a high-end complex with a gated garage.

Man accused of hitting motorcycle, pushing riders into oncoming traffic

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Chris Merkle, who lives at the complex, said his Jeep has been broken into twice in recent months.

Every time a window is busted, you are looking at like $500, Merkle said. Its sad everyone here actually has a story  where their car has been broken into.

Merkle shared two police reports from incidents at the complex, including one from Aug. 11 that referenced damage, theft, and a Denver police detective assigned to the case. He said that the detective told him a suspect had been identified  a claim police later confirmed was Steele.

Denver police said Steele was arrested in 2024 for trespassing and drug charges. The department said it has increased patrols in Cherry Creek and met with some property management and private security teams. However, officers cannot patrol private garages like the one at Griffis Apartments.

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I dont feel very confident with the current security here, Merkle said. I never see them. I think its all kind of a facade.

Colorado combat veteran who earned Purple Heart detained by ICE, facing deportation

FOX31 contacted Griffis management multiple times by phone and email for comment but received no response. In June, when asked about similar break-ins, the company told FOX31 they were aware of the problem and working on a long-term solution.

Police are asking anyone with information about Steele or the break-ins to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
In August 2025, some people on social media claimed Assembly Bill 495 (AB 495), a proposed California law known as the Family Preparedness Act, could facilitate child exploitation. For example, a pastor, Jack Hibbs, wrote in a Facebook post, "This bill would allow any non-related adult, a neighbor, teacher, ex-relative, or even a complete stranger, to take custody of your child without your knowledge or consent. No background check. No court order. No parent's signature. Just a piece of paper."

AB 495, which was introduced in February 2025, is aimed at helping California families make caregiving arrangements during situations like a deportation, incarceration or illness, among others.

The bill references an official form known as a caregiver's authorization affidavit and would expand who could sign one to include trusted non-relatives. If the bill is passed, these people would have the same authority as relatives who complete the affidavit.

Our review found several popular claims about AB 495, including that it allows someone who isn't related to a child to "take custody" of them, were false or lacking important context.

Assembly Bill 495 (AB 495), a proposed California law known as the Family Preparedness Act, drew controversy online in August 2025, with some critics claiming it could facilitate child exploitation.

In a Facebook post (archived) shared on Aug. 3, 2025, conservative commentator David Harris Jr. wrote, in part, "Pastor Jack Hibbs says California Bill AB 495 is the most dangerous bill we've seen from Democrats. He calls it the legal 'trafficking bill.'"

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Harris' post also claimed that individuals could obtain and fill out a new form allowing them to name a child and take them out of school without contacting a parent. Furthermore, he alleged that the bill lacks safeguards such as background checks and ID requirements, and does not require schools to verify with parents before releasing a child to someone.

Hibbs also posted a video (archived) on Facebook warning about the alleged dangers of AB 495, claiming that that AB 495 "strips parents of their parental rights."

In the video's caption, Hibbs wrote, in part:

California's AB 495 is the most dangerous bill we've ever seen  and it's being pushed right now by lawmakers in Sacramento.



This bill would allow any non-related adult, a neighbor, teacher, ex-relative, or even a complete stranger, to take custody of your child without your knowledge or consent. No background check. No court order. No parent's signature. Just a piece of paper.

Similar claims about AB 495 circulated on X in early August 2025. Multiple Snopes readers also searched our website for information about the bill. Below is a breakdown of what we know about the bill and an analysis of whether critics' claims are accurate:

What is AB 495?

Democratic California Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez introduced AB 495, which is also known as the Family Preparedness Act, in February 2025. The bill is intended to help families facing separation make caregiving arrangements, Rodriguez said in a statement on Aug. 8, 2025.

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While the bill is primarily aimed at addressing family separations due to immigration enforcement, it also applies more broadly to other situations where children are already living apart from their parents and need temporary care.

These include cases of deportation, incarceration, military service or illness, among others, Sharon Balmer Cartagena, the directing attorney of Public Counsel's Child Youth and Family Advocacy Project, told Snopes via email. Public Counsel, a nonprofit California law firm, is a sponsor of the bill and assisted with its writing.

In her email to Snopes, Balmer Cartagena added:

In our day-to-day experience representing parents, we have seen cases where parents were forced to fully suspend their rights via a legal process called 'guardianship' in order to ensure that the person who was temporarily caring for their child had the ability to consent to school enrollment and routine medical care during a short term absence. In several cases, parents and children were never reunited, despite the fact that there were no allegations that they weren't fit parents.

According to a an executive summary of AB 495 published by California's Senate Judiciary Committee, the bill includes several key provisions:

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Requires schools and licensed childcare facilities to implement the state attorney general's updated immigration-related policies for family preparedness

Standardizes recognition of an official document called a Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit and expands the categories of eligible caregivers

Clarifies that a parent's choice of guardian is given due weight

Creates a short-term guardianship process that allows families facing separations to designate short-term guardians while honoring parental rights

What are other critics saying about the bill?

The California Family Council, a conservative advocacy group, is among the vocal critics of AB 495, claiming that the bill opens the door to child exploitation and erodes safeguards for parents.

In a post published on July 23, 2025, the group took issue with bill's expansion of who qualifies as a "caregiver" to include "nonrelative extended family members," saying the category is "broad and loosely defined."

The group also claimed that a "nonrelative extended family member" could "assume control over a child through a one-page affidavit" without a court review, notarization or parental consent.

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Erin Friday, an attorney and president of an advocacy group called Our Duty-USA, reportedly called AB 495 "a child trafficker's and kidnapper's dream bill," according to the California Family Council.

Additionally, Friday argued that the bill's language grants "temporary legal rights" to people with no blood relation to a child, the California Family Council said.

Critics also expressed concerns that the bill would allow someone who isn't related to children to enroll them in school, and authorize medical, dental and mental health treatments for them.

What is a caregiver's authorization affidavit?

A caregiver's authorization affidavit, which is referenced in AB 495, is one example of a less formal option than guardianship that allows someone to take care of another person's child, an official California Courts website explains.

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In California, someone with whom a child is already living can sign the affidavit allowing the person to enroll the child in school and consent to school-related medical care, including vaccinations and physical exams, the California Courts website says.

Currently, relatives who sign the affidavit can make decisions on medical care "outside of the school context," while nonrelatives can only consent to school-related medical care, according to the California Courts website.

What rights do 'nonrelative extended family members' have under the bill?

AB 495 would expand who can sign a caregiver's authorization affidavit to include a "nonrelative extended family member," according to the bill text.

The bill defines a "nonrelative extended family member" as "any adult caregiver who has an established familial or mentoring relationship with the child or who has an established familial relationship with a relative of the child."

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If the bill is passed, nonrelative extended family members would have the same authority as relatives who complete the affidavit. That means they could authorize not only school-related medical care, but also general medical care, dental care and mental health treatment.

In the Aug. 8 statement, Rodriguez said, "Under the bill, the Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit will now recognize trusted adults and extended family members such as godparents, which parents select to care for their children in the event that they are unable to."

Snopes asked Balmer Cartagena to respond to critics' claims that the definition of "nonrelative extended family member" is too "broad and loosely defined."

In response, Balmer Cartagena said "the term 'nonrelative extended family member' comes from existing California child welfare law and is a well-recognized designation for caregivers who are part of a child's extended family." She added that "the term has been used in this context for over a decade without confusion or the problems that the critics raise."

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She continued:

The current definition of relative is narrow and excludes many people who are often considered family  like second cousins. Families in crisis should be able to rely on their extended kin networks, which may include cousins, godparents, close family friends, mentors, teachers, or neighbors. Nonrelative extended family members maintain connections with the child's community. Such arrangements are important because they provide a stable, familiar, and supportive environment for children who cannot remain in the care of their parent, while maintaining connections to their extended family and cultural background, which can improve well-being and educational outcomes. Being able to live with a trusted family friend or neighbor can ease a child's trauma after being separated from their parents and can reduce the likelihood of the child entering the foster care system.

People who aren't related to a child could 'take custody' of them?

Hibbs and other critics of AB 495 also suggested the bill would allow people who aren't related to a child to "take custody" of them. But those claims are false.

The affidavit does not grant a caregiver legal custody of a child, as shown in the bill text and a copy of a caregiver's authorization affidavit that's viewable online. The affidavit itself says, "A Caregiver Authorization Affidavit DOES NOT give you legal custody."

As the California Courts website explains, "only a court order, like a guardianship, can take legal custody from a parent and give it to another person."

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Rodriguez and Balmer Cartagena also rebutted critics' claims that the bill would grant custody rights to anyone or that it would facilitate trafficking.

In her Aug. 8 statement, Rodriguez said, in part (emphasis hers):

Let me be clear, a caregiver's authorization affidavit does not grant any level of legal custody, does not bypass child welfare protections, does not prevent authorities from investigating abuse or trafficking concerns, and does not supersede any parents' rights. Any claim that the bill legalizes human trafficking and kidnapping is not only false, but harmful fearmongering that distracts from the actual goal of protecting vulnerable children in times of crisis."

Balmer Cartagena shared a similar sentiment with Snopes, writing:

To be clear: AB 495 does not legalize child trafficking. Nor does it allow strangers to claim custody or guardianship over children simply by signing a piece of paper. These claims show a clear misunderstanding of both AB 495 and the legal framework around child custody in California.

The Sunita Jain Anti-Trafficking Initiative at Loyola Law School in California also issued the following statement in response to claims linking AB 495 to human trafficking, kidnapping and exploitation:

It is the Federal government's unfounded and aggressive actions against immigrant families that is causing increased vulnerability for children. When primary caregivers or parents are detained or deported, children become prime targets for human trafficking, kidnapping, exploitation and other forms of abuse. Family separation and poverty are policies that put children at risk for commercial exploitation and California must do everything it can to support immigrant communities in this hostile climate.

No court review or notarization required?

Caregivers can already use a caregiver's authorization affidavit without notarization or a court appearance. This provision isn't a new one that would be implemented under AB 495, as some critics have suggested.

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As of Aug. 13, 2025, the California Courts website stated, "The Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit does not get filed with the court. And it does not have to be notarized."

Balmer Cartagena also pointed out that this is "current law."

"To require a court appearance would make it necessary to file a guardianship petition, which would suspend a parent's rights, possibly permanently. Parents should not be forced to suspend their own rights in order to arrange for someone to temporarily care for their children," Balmer Cartagena told Snopes.

She added that requiring notarization would mean that "the most vulnerable families who cannot afford a notary's fees or navigate the process would be kept from enrolling a child they were caring for in school or from seeking medical care for that child."

People could remove children from school without parent's consent?

Balmer Cartagena refuted claims that AB 495 would allow a person to remove a child from school without a parent's knowledge or consent.

"Generally, schools only release children from school to people listed as emergency contacts by the person who enrolled the child in school. A Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit does not allow someone to bypass this process and remove a child from school," she said.

Snopes found several California school district policies that stated schools would only release students to people designated as emergency contacts.

The caregiver's authorization affidavit that's viewable online also makes no mention of removing a child from school.

In sum ...

While AB 495 is primarily aimed at addressing family separations due to immigration enforcement, it also applies more broadly to other situations where children need temporary care during a parent's absence.

Our review also found that several popular claims about AB 495 were false or lacking important context. For instance, AB 495 would not allow a stranger to gain custody of a child simply by signing a piece of paper, as some have claimed.

Additionally, caregivers can use a caregiver's authorization affidavit without notarization or a court appearance. But this isn't a new provision that would be implemented under AB 495.

The bill has already passed the state Assembly and is set to be heard in the state Senate Appropriations Committee. With Democrats holding a majority in the state Senate, AB 495 appears likely to pass. As of now, California Gov. Gavin Newsom hasn't publicly shared his position on the bill.

Sources:

"California AB495 | 2025-2026 | Regular Session." LegiScan, legiscan.com/CA/text/AB495/id/3111922. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

"Children's Advocates and Legal Experts Unite to Support Family Preparedness Plan Act | Official Website - Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez, California Assembly District 43." Asmdc.org, 8 Aug. 2025, a43.asmdc.org/press-releases/20250808-childrens-advocates-and-legal-experts-unite-support-family-preparedness. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

"Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez Introduces Critical Legislation to Protect Immigrant & Mixed-Status Families from Separation | Official Website - Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez, California Assembly District 43." Asmdc.org, 10 Feb. 2025, a43.asmdc.org/press-releases/20250210-assemblywoman-celeste-rodriguez-introduces-critical-legislation-protect. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

"Options Other than a Guardianship | California Courts | Self Help Guide." Ca.gov, selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/guardianship/other-options. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

"California Code, Welfare and Institutions Code - WIC  362.7 | FindLaw." Findlaw, codes.findlaw.com/ca/welfare-and-institutions-code/wic-sect-362-7/. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit. selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2025-03/CAA-with-Instructions.pdf. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

Updates:

Aug. 15, 2025: This story was updated to include a statement from the Sunita Jain Anti-Trafficking Initiative at Loyola Law School in California.
A few years ago, as Utah dealt with an uptick in roadway fatalities, Salt Lake Citys transportation division began tinkering with the timing of crosswalk signals based on an emerging new concept.

A few other U.S. cities had installed leading pedestrian intervals, or LPIs, as a potential solution to improve traffic safety. The traffic signal technology gives pedestrians a slight head start at a crosswalk. Most of the research had been preliminary to that point, leading to mixed results on whether it worked, but the idea seemed intriguing enough to test, said Salt Lake City transportation director Jon Larsen, as he recalled those conversations.

By allowing pedestrians to start moving 3 to 7 seconds before the traffic signal, many can cross the intersection or reach the midpoint. At the very least, it can give people time to be more visible in a crosswalk.

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Giving pedestrians a head start so theyre able to cross when all of the traffic has stopped  it just intuitively makes sense, he said.

Now, a few years later, a recently released study offers hope that Salt Lake City made a good investment.

Installing LPIs curbed total injuries  fatal and nonfatal alike  by one-third when implemented in New York City, researchers at Columbia Universitys Mailman School of Public Health found in a study published in Nature Cities last month.

The finding is based on a review of data at over 6,000 intersections from 2013 to 2018, nearly half of which had LPIs, representing the largest collection of intersections reviewed in a study to date. The total number of pedestrian injuries plummeted when the crosswalk signal started seven seconds before the traffic signal, while the number of daytime fatal pedestrian crashes also dropped by 65%.

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They determined that its an effective intervention to improve pedestrian safety, especially in urban communities. It could help reduce the number of pedestrian deaths and injuries, which  as they point out  totaled 68,000 deaths and 6.1 million serious injuries in the U.S. between 2011 and 2020.

LPIs are one of the most affordable and scalable traffic safety interventions. ... Our findings show they work  and could be adopted more widely, said Christopher Morrison, assistant professor of epidemiology at Columbia Mailman School, and the studys lead author, in a statement.

Salt Lakes dive into LPIs

Salt Lake City began installing LPIs about two or three years ago. Mayor Erin Mendenhall announced the formation of a safety task force that would look into ways to reduce traffic crashes in 2022. She and Utah Department of Transportation director Carlos Braceras were concerned by a spike in fatal crashes across the Wasatch Front, and they wanted to explore potential solutions.

The city ultimately joined the Vision Zero Network  a collaborative that seeks to find ways to reduce traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries  a year later, after 26 people died in traffic crashes in 2022. Delayed signaling was one of the options it could explore, city leaders explained at the time.

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Larsen reviewed Columbias study and says the results are promising.

It is nice that it is finally getting studied, and were starting to see some of the benefits, he told KSL.com.

Fifty-three of the 213 traffic signals that Salt Lake City manages now have LPIs, and the city wants to install them at the remaining intersections. Its still too early to determine if this change is making the same level of injury prevention as what Columbia researchers found. Thats something the city plans to track moving forward.

Effectiveness may differ from intersection to intersection, Larsen said. LPIs could be more effective on smaller, narrower streets that take less time to cross, as opposed to larger streets that take longer to cross and often draw in larger traffic.

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There are other limitations when it comes to reducing pedestrian injuries and deaths, including cases where someone may cross an intersection against the right-of-way. Nearly three-fourths of pedestrian deaths in 2018 also happened away from an intersection in other parts of the road, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

Salt Lake City has implemented other safety measures in recent years, including slower speed limits on many roads, with the hope of reducing injury severity in other scenarios.

A quiet solution?

Meanwhile, other recent studies suggest that LPIs dont have much of an impact on traffic.

The transportation research firm Kittelson & Associates reported last year that it found minor to no additional vehicular delays after partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation on a study of 16 different intersection models with LPIs.

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To that end, LPIs have flown mostly under the radar to this point in Salt Lake City. The little feedback the city has received on the technology  mostly from pedestrians or crossing guards  has been generally positive.

Larsen suspects its because many people may not have noticed the difference.

A lot of people  I dont think  really realize that its happening, he said. A lot of drivers just pay attention to the light in front of them when its red and green.
Related video: Doctor discusses health dangers of wildfire smoke.

(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) said its headquarters has received several calls about the visible haze and smell of smoke in the area on Wednesday, Aug. 13.

CSFD reassured the community that there are no active fires in Colorado Springs.

Were currently experiencing hazy skies due to multiple fires burning in Colorado and surrounding states, wrote CSFD on X (formerly known as Twitter).

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CSFD asked that community members only call 911 if they see active fire or heavy smoke.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  The Connecticut Office of Higher Education (OHE) today announced that the Student Loan Reimbursement Program (SLRP) will reopen for applications on Friday.

New eligibility changes were made to expand the program, designed for the program to reach more Connecticut residents burdened with student loan debt.

The SLRP, initially authorized by the legislature in 2024, provides up to $5,000 annually, with a four-year cap at $20,000, to eligible applicants who meet service and income requirements.

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With the new changes in place, eligibility now includes a broader range of educational and volunteer experiences, enabling more individuals to qualify for relief.

The following includes the programs key eligibility requirements:

Must be a Connecticut resident for at least five consecutive years

Must have an outstanding student loan balance and made a qualifying payment in 2024

Must have graduated from a Connecticut college/university, or attended a program to earn a professional license/certificate

Income limits: $125,000 for individuals and $175,000 for married applicants

Must have 50 hours of verified volunteer service since Jan. 1, 2024, at a qualifying nonprofit, municipal agency, or through military service

A hardship waiver may be requested in certain cases of degree non-completion

Were proud to reopen the doors to this impactful program, said Gov. Ned Lamont. This is not just a reimbursement planits a strategic investment in our workforce, in our communities, and in the future of Connecticut. The adjustments made this year reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting those who choose to build their lives and careers right here in our state.

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Included in the changes, former Stone Academy students may qualify for assistance due to its closure. Students who did not receive a tuition refund are now eligible for reimbursement. This was offered as a pathway to recover from educational and financial setbacks, according to the OHE.

This expansion ensures that we are reaching more of the hardworking Connecticut residents who need relief, Commissioner Timothy Larson of the Office of Higher Education said. The enhancements, combined with a streamlined application process, reflect our commitment to making education more affordable and accessible.

Anybody who believes they may qualify for the program can apply through the CT SCHOLARS portal, beginning on Friday.

Applicants must create an account, complete the application, and upload all required documents to be considered for approval.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  Connecticut marked a major milestone Tuesday as CT Transit celebrated 50 years of getting thousands of passengers to their destinations across the state.

This has been an enormous success, U.S. Rep. John Larson (D, CT1) said. Just in Hartford, over 30% of the people dont own a car.

Blumenthal calls for federal action on electricity costs

During the 1970s, the once privately-owned bus service faced significant difficulties until the state and federal government stepped in with assistance. In just the past two years, CT Transit has received $132 million from the federal government.

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What began as an urgent effort to save public transportation has grown into one of the most reliable and expansive bus systems in the country, Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said.



CT Transit provides the public with transportation to work, trips to the market, and getting students to school on time, among other things.

State Rep. Kathy Kennedy (R-119) recounted the time her daughter rode a CT Transit bus for the first time.

She says, well mom, it was an interesting trip, we took the bus, it was awesome, Kennedy said. But how the heck do you get off those things? She didnt know theres a little lever up there you pull.



While reflecting on the past, transit officials are also looking toward the next 50 years.

Our bus stop enhancement program is going to bring about 750 shelters at high ridership locations across the state complete with real-time arrival signs, solar lighting, bench mounted seating and ADA accessibility, Eucalitto said.



But theres no forgetting the past, thanks to the unveiling of a retro bus.

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Its a tribute to former general managers, the dedication of our professional operators, maintenance crews, planners, and administrative teams, CT Transit General Manager Thomas Stringer, Jr. 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.
STRATFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  Connecticut Department of Transportation crews are working to repair a sinkhole that shutdown part of Route 113 in Stratford in June.

We had some culverts that were dislodged, creating a sinkhole, DOT commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. The agency attributes the issue to aged drainage pipes.

Sinkhole shuts down Route 113 near Sikorsky Airport in Stratford

Eucalitto said the sinkhole repair project is complicated and involves several regulatory measures as crews are operating on tidal wetlands. Plus, Sikorsky Memorial Airport is steps away.

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When asked if there are any major impacts to the airport, DOTs chief engineer Jim Fallon said we did work with the FAA and the airport and one of the runways is closed.

Despite this, the airport does not anticipate significant disruptions, he added.

The same cannot be said for the road, with a stretch of 113 in Stratford remaining closed.

Stratford council member Bryan OConnor said some of his constituents have expressed concerns about the closure during hurricane season.

Having one egress is kind of a big deal, OConnor said.

The DOT said its contractors are moving as quickly as possible, up to 20 hours a day. At a minimum, crews said they are aiming to have the project completed in October.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  The field of Republican candidates choosing to run for current Senator Tommy Tubervilles seat is growing.

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore announced Tuesday he is seeking the position Tuberville is leaving to run for governor.

White phosphorus mortar round found on Redstone Arsenal

Moore describes himself as a conservative, faith-driven man. He told News 19 he hopes his record will speak for him.

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We felt like this would be the next opportunity for us to serve the people, Moore said.

He currently represents Alabamas southernmost congressional district in Washington. Moore is no stranger to Alabama politics as he was first elected to the Alabama Legislature in 2010.

Before his political career began, Moore ran his own waste management company.

Growing the Valley: Alabamas apple season is right around the corner

Moore was an early supporter of President Trump, first endorsing him as a candidate in 2015.

Alabama loves President Trump. They love him as a state, Moore said. I think were the top Trump state in the nation, and being the first to endorse him and being a delegate and serving in those capacities, I think for us the Senate is an opportunity to continue to know that he has men of valor who will protect him and move his agenda forward.

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Moore said he hopes to limit the size of the federal government while supporting Alabama workers.

With the influx of industry to this state and to this nation, I think we have to continue to make sure that we train a workforce thats capable, Moore said. Everybodys not going to go to a four-year college, but if you can lay a bead with a welder, you can do HVAC. I think for us, workforce development, and making sure that the labor force is participating, but also theyre qualified to participate in high-paying jobs.

So far, two other Republicans have announced they are running for this seat in the Senate: current Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson.

The Republican primary is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
The Brief

A CVS manager survived the shooting by following the "run, hide, fight" advice, dropping behind the counter and calling 911 during a lull in gunfire.

The shooter, Patrick Joseph White, opposed COVID-19 vaccines and fired over 180 shots, killing DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Security measures at the CDC complex prevented mass casualties, with bullets piercing "blast-resistant" windows and employees sheltering in place.

ATLANTA - For the first time, a shift manager at a CVS targeted in Fridays deadly shooting is sharing how she survived while the gunman took a position inside the store. It happened at Emory Point shopping center adjacent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention main campus and the main campus of Emory University.

CVS manager describes shooting

What they're saying

The manager, who asked to be identified only as Vonda, said the day began like any other. She was on the sales floor, leading her team and greeting customers.

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"I love to see other people smiling. So I love working there. I love the people. I wouldnt dare change it for anything in the world," she said.

That changed in seconds when gunfire erupted.

"Its just a whole lot. Its a whole lot. I feel like I cant breathe hard enough to consume enough air," Vonda said.

Following the widely taught advice to "run, hide, fight," she and another manager dropped behind the counter of the photo lab. "We were like statues. We became a part of the register," she said. "We didnt even have time to go to a closet, we immediately dropped."

Bullet holes are seen in the doors of a CVS store following a shooting that left two dead, on August 9, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. On August 8, a gunman opened fire near the headquarters of the Centers for Disease Control, killing a DeKalb County Police Department officer before being found dead by gunfire. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)

She remembers the deafening sound of rapid gunfire. "And all I hear now is the gunshots, the clips dropping, and me and my manager being on the floor the entire while," she said. "I heard what I'm sure everyone heard, this loud tatatatatata."

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During a lull between bursts of shooting, Vonda quietly called 911. "That was my best time to talk because maybe he wouldn't hear me talking to her on the phone." She said the dispatcher did not realize the shooter was inside the CVS, so she texted a friend in law enforcement who directed first responders to the store. "I say hes my hero. He really saved my life."

She also credits DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose, who was killed while running toward the gunfire to protect her and others.

Though grateful to be alive, Vonda said she is struggling with the aftermath. "I still hear the ringing, I still hear the sirens, they make me jump. Its still in me Im trying to ease it off but its all about family moving forward. I dont see it no other way."

The store was closed over the weekend but reopened on Monday.

CDC shooter's mug shot released

The backstory

On Tuesday, everyone got their first look at the alleged shooter, 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White, after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation released a drivers license photo.

Patrick Joseph White. Courtesy of GBI

GBI Director Chris Hosey also revealed White had stolen his fathers guns from a locked safe and was motivated by opposition to COVID-19 vaccines. Documents were left at his parents Kennesaw home that "expressed the shooters discontent with the COVID-19 vaccinations" and a desire to make "the public aware of his discontent with the vaccine."

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White fired more than 180 shots from a long gun, according to the GBI, which recovered more than 500 shell casings from the scene. Investigators have not determined how many rounds were fired by White and how many by police. Hosey said forensic testing is still pending.

White, who had no known criminal history, had recently expressed suicidal thoughts. Police were contacted several weeks before the shooting. He died at the scene Friday from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after killing DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose.

Authorities said White broke into his fathers gun safe to obtain a firearm used in the attack. He then drove to the main campus of the CDC, located off of Clifton Road in Atlanta. A guard there stopped him, preventing him from gaining access. According to officials, White went across the street to the pharmacys parking lot and began firing rounds from the sidewalk towards the CDC building.

Officer David Rose (DeKalb County Police Department)

During the attack, DeKalb County Police Officer David Rose pulled up to the scene and attempted to approach White. At some point, he was shot and killed.

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Bullets pierced "blast-resistant" windows across the CDC complex, forcing employees to shelter in place.

Authorities credited security measures with preventing mass casualties, including nearly 100 children who were in the childcare center at the time.

Some CDC employees and retirees blamed years of vaccine misinformation for creating a climate that could lead to violence.

White was found dead inside the store after the shooting from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Source

FOX 5's Alli Levine spoke with a manager at the CVS where a gunman opened fire on the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention on Friday. She did not want her full name used. Additional details come from previous FOX 5 Atlanta reporting. FOX News and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Two men and a woman driven by disinformation and denying the Russian invasion of Ukraine are the unlikely protagonists

of a Czech documentary that will premiere this month.

Director Robin Kvapil took Petra, Ivo and Nikola on a two-week tour of Ukraine's war-ravaged cities, shelters and cemeteries last October, equipping them with handheld cameras to capture the experience.

Before the shooting, Kvapil, 43, paid two visits to Ukraine to prepare the film and was shocked by the war.

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"That's an experience you won't get out of your head. It's for life. Seeing these places will simply change you," the bearded, bespectacled director told AFP in an interview.

"As a filmmaker, I have no other weapon than film, and I wanted to stand up to the war in some way," he added.

He chose Petra, Ivo and Nikola out of 60 Czechs who had answered his ad looking for people nursing doubts about the reality of the war after succumbing to disinformation.

A survey by pollsters Ipsos indicated last year that most Czechs think Russia is using disinformation to skew public opinion.

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One in three respondents also told Ipsos they had believed disinformation on more than one occasion over their lifetime.

The Czech intelligence service BIS said in a recent report that "in 2024, society continued to grapple with the spread of disinformation in the public space, originating both directly from Russia and from domestic actors".

- 'Contact with reality' -

The film's title, "The Great Patriotic Trip", is a parody of "The Great Patriotic War", the Russian name for the Soviet-German part of World War II.

The premiere is scheduled for August 21, the anniversary of the 1968 Soviet-led invasion of former communist Czechoslovakia which crushed the Prague Spring movement deemed too liberal by Moscow.

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The film begins by drawing a parallel between 1968 and the invasion of Ukraine and goes on to say that "Russia is leading a disinformation war against the whole of Europe", before introducing the three protagonists.

Petra, whose parents were hardline communists, dismissed the war in Ukraine as "nonsense".

Ivo said he believed information he finds on the internet "even if it's not true", admitting he is a "conspiracy nut".

And Nikola said that Russian President Vladimir Putin "is the only man in the world who can stop the Western ideological madness".

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All three protagonists' surnames are not divulged.

Kvapil, who has won several Czech awards for his documentaries, told AFP his goal was not to change the three but "to capture their contact with reality".

He admitted that while he tried hard to stay out of the film, he was stunned on many occasions, like when Petra started to sing the Soviet anthem in a van en route to the war zone.

"Everything that appears in the film is there because it's surprising in some way. I was trying to pass on the energy of my own astonishment," he said.

- 'All fake!' -

Petra got a surprise herself during a visit to mass graves in the eastern Ukrainian town of Izyum, which was occupied for several months at the beginning of the war before it was retaken by Ukrainian forces.

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Ukraine said in September 2022 it had found more than 440 graves in Izyum.

Petra found the pleasant smell of pine trees and fine sand resembling a beach inappropriate for the dreary place.

"I know why this place feels so weird! Because it's all fake!" she then exclaimed, calling the graveyard "outstanding material for Ukrainian propaganda and nurturing hatred towards Russia".

"I took the shooting as an exercise in inner tolerance which I undergo all my life," Kvapil said.

Despite witnessing many horrors of the war, Kvapil's protagonists do not seem to be convinced as they return home.

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"I still have the same opinion," Ivo said after the trip, while Petra insisted she has "not been reeducated".

"I'm not a naive fool to believe in the strength of films changing society. But I think this one can do some good," Kvapil said.

frj/jza/phz
President Trumps federal takeover of D.C. doesnt make a lot of sense to D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Daniel Hodges, he told MSNBCs Chris Jansing on Wednesday. The interview highlights how the ongoing militarization of the nations capital is not only an authoritarian power grab but also a theatrical farce.

Hodgeswho was attacked while defending the Capitol building on January 6, 2021noted that the troops Trump has stationed in D.C. are not exactly cut out for the job.

The National Guardsmen patrolling the citys streets are not in their lane, said Hodges, citing his six-year stint as a member of the Virginia National Guard. I can tell you that this is not what theyre trained to do, Hodges said. Soldiers are trained to fight and win wars. Were not in a war out here in D.C. Theres crime out here, but its not a war-torn hellscape like Trump has said. The troops are not trained to do law enforcement.

Officer Daniel Hodges: "The emergency federalization doesn't make a lot of sense to me...I served as a Virginia National Guard member for six years, and I can tell you that this is not what they're trained to do. Soldiers are trained to fight and win wars. We're not in a war out pic.twitter.com/Rk5w9plbEP  Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) August 13, 2025

As for the officers from various federal agencies now policing Washington, he said, I dont think this is really their specialization either. So many of these federal officers are investigators. Theyre supposed to be behind a desk, you know, working that way. Rather than helping local police in the harsher areas of the city, Hodges said, youre going to see [the federal agents] standing around in Chinatown or on the [National] Mall or walking around Georgetown. (Social media footage from the first few days of Trumps takeover shows them doing just that.)

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In the event that President Trump actually wants to help local law enforcement, Hodges offered some advice. For one, he said, the president could actually allow D.C. to spend its own money. D.C., after all, is currently still in the hole by about $1 billion due to Republican cuts to the citys budget. Further, Hodges suggested, the Federal Emergency Management Agency could undo its recent 44 percent cut in assistance to the citys security funding.

So there are things that they can do to help us out that theyre not doing, and I would love to know why, he said.

Theres apparently much more of the nonsense Hodges describes to come. Trump on Wednesday announced plans to extend the D.C. occupation beyond 30 days, at which pointthough he will require congressional approval under the Home Rule Acthes vowed to do so even without Congresss green light. And the capital is apparently just a testing ground, as the president suggests hell bring similar crackdowns to cities across the country.
The local police union in Washington, D.C., wasted no time in welcoming President Donald Trumps unprecedented federalization of the Metropolitan Police Department and the deployment of the National Guard to the district as part of a dubious crackdown on crime.

Trump  who has openly endorsed police violence in the past  literally vowed to let D.C. police officers do whatever the hell they want when he announced his plan to take control of the MPD. While federal data shows violent crime in D.C. reached a 30-year low before Trump took office, the rhetoric from the White House has portrayed D.C. as some kind of lawless hellscape.

The D.C. Police Union, despite caveats that federal intervention must be a temporary measure, is disturbingly gung-ho about its members receiving this unchecked power to execute what many critics see as a racist campaign against a largely Black city that could spread to others nationally.

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Since Trumps announcement, the union has aligned itself with the administrations propaganda campaign on social media and on conservative media outlets, disputing the accuracy of the crime data and touting Trumps takeover.

Echoing Trump, Union Chairman Gregg Pemberton claimed crime is out of control during a Fox News interview, a claim the union and the administration have boosted repeatedly via social media. Pemberton claimed that police accountability measures the city council passed following the George Floyd protests in 2020 are the true culprit behind the nonexistent crime surge. His unions social media feed has also reposted claims from MAGA figures, like newly confirmed U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, and from the union itself that crime isnt truly down, as the data show.

Gregg Pemberton at a meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House on June 5. (Alex Brandon / AP file)

Pemberton and the union also claimed last month that a police commander manipulated data to overstate the decline in crime, according to the local NBC affiliate, although the union hasnt provided any public evidence to support the claim. The commander, who is under investigation, has denied the allegation.

But the D.C. police union, whose members are being given the opportunity to wield unchecked power over city residents, appears to be on board with Trumps authoritarian power play.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Editors Note: This story has been updated to clarify the previous conviction of former Councilmember Mitchell Englander.

The Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office has filed new corruption charges against embattled City Councilmember Curren Price.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges Tuesday evening in a press release.

According to Hochman, Price is set to appear in court Thursday to face new charges related to accusations that he approved multimillion-dollar government contracts to local agencies which in turn then paid his wife more than $800,000.

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The agencies, according to the D.A.s Office, are the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or LA Metro, and the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, or HACLA.

Price has been councilmember for L.A.s Ninth District since 2013, and was previously charged in 2023 with 10 felony public corruption-related charges, including embezzlement, perjury and conflict of interest.

His 2023 charges allege that he, while acting in an official capacity as a member of the council, voted to award more than $150,000 to Del Richardson & Associates, a consulting firm founded and owned solely by his wife, Delbra Pettice Richardson.

Price is prohibited from having a financial stake associated with any project that comes before the city council, Hochman said.

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Hes also accused of embezzling around $33,000 in city funds from 2013-2017 to pay for Richardsons medical benefits, claiming she was his wife, while he was in fact married to another woman.

Councilman Curren Price seen here in this undated photo with his wife who prosecutors allege received $150,000 from developers between 2019 and 2021 before Price voted to approve their projects. (Twitter)

Price has pleaded not guilty to those charges and was released from custody in December 2023. He has denied any wrongdoing.

Investigators have continued to investigate and obtained subpoenas which Hochman said led to the discovery of fresh evidence of corruption. His existing charges have since been amended to now include two new charges for conflict of interest.

The complaint includes an appendix of 39 exhibits of evidence of the payments and Prices voting history, the D.A.s Office said.

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From October 2019 to June 2020, HACLA allegedly paid Del Richardson & Associates approximately $609,000 in consulting fees, while Price had voted to support a $35 million federal grant and a $250 million state grant application for the agency.

Prices staff had flagged the item of interest prior to the votes, Hochmans office said.

From October 2020 to October 2021, LA Metro paid the consulting firm approximately $220,000. Price then brought forth a motion to the council to award LA Metro $30 million.

That issue, according to Hochman, was also flagged by Prices staff as a conflict of interest prior to the vote.

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Price also allegedly took advantage of his position in city government to award city lease agreements and more than $2 million in federal COVID-19 grants to a nonprofit that was a tenant of an organization for which Price was the chief executive officer at the time.

Price is due to appear in court at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in downtown L.A. on Thursday.

If convicted as charged, Price could spend more than 11 years in custody, including nine years in state prison.

Price is one in a long line of Los Angeles city councilmembers to face accusations of corruption, including several that have resulted in federal charges and arrests.

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Most notably, former Los Angeles County supervisor and Los Angeles City Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas was convicted of seven corruption-related charges in 2023.

A leaked conversation between then-City Council President Nury Martinez, former council member Kevin de Leon and a powerful labor leader, Ron Herrera, which included racial slurs and discussion about how to consolidate power on the council led to the resignation of Martinez and Herrera.

L.A.s government triggered the resignation of then-City Council President Nury Martinez and a powerful labor leader, Ron Herrera. De Leon lost his seat in 2024 to Ysabel Jurado.

Councilmember John Lee was accused of violating government ethics laws as part of an investigation by the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission for allegedly accepting gifts in excess of the government-set gift limit and failing to disclose them. Lee was also accused of aiding and abetting former council member Mitchell Englanders misuse of his city position.

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In 2021, Englander was sentenced to 14 months in prison for lying to federal investigators during a corruption investigation.

Former L.A. Councilmember Jose Huizar is currently serving a 13-year-prison sentence on a racketeering and tax evasion conviction.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
The Dakota will celebrate its 40th anniversary with free festival on Nicollet Mall originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

The Dakota has been celebrating its 40th anniversary as an internationally renowned pillar of the jazz and live music scene in the Twin Cities in 2025. That will reach its zenith next month, with a free 40th-anniversary block party in Downtown Minneapolis featuring performances from The Suburbs, Jamecia Bennett, and others.

The party will take place on Nicollet Mall from 2 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20. Held out on the street and inside the venue, the event will feature more than 10 performers alternating between the two stages.

The DakotaCourtesy of The Dakota

This anniversary is a celebration not only for Dakota but also for the incredible Twin Cities music community that has contributed so much to reaching this historic milestone, Lowell Pickett, founder of The Dakota, says. "Were celebrating 40 years of unforgettable music, and paying tribute to the New Orleans roots that have long inspired our stage and our kitchen."

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The celebration will center on music from local performers, focusing not just on jazz  what the venue is best-known for presenting  but other genres it frequently presents, including soul, funk, and Americana.

Davina and the Vagabonds at The DakotaCourtesy of The Dakota

Here's a look at the stacked lineup of local talent. Set times will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

The Suburbs

Glen David Andrews

Jamecia Bennett

Davina and the Vagabonds

Kavyesh Kaviraj and Omar Abdulkarim

L.A. Buckner

MacPhail Faculty Ensemble

Pat Donohue and Prairie All Stars

Patty Peterson presents Jazz Woman All-Stars with Ginger Commodore, Connie Evingson, Mary Louise Knutson, Joan Griffith, Sheila Earley, and Stephanie Wiesler

Room3 Collective

Beyond music, the festivities will include food specials inspired by New Orleans along Nicollet Mall, as well as a craft market and a kids' activity area.

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Founded by Pickett in 1985 at Bandana Square in St. Paul, the venue has evolved repeatedly since debuting as the Dakota Bar and Grill with a focus on local jazz.

As its reputation grew and it began to attract more national talent, the Dakota Bar and Grill moved to its current Minneapolis hub at 1010 Nicollet Mall in 2003, redubbing itself as The Dakota Jazz Club.

In the years that followed, it expanded its musical offerings  and simplified its name to The Dakota to reflect an increasingly eclectic calendar  bringing in national and local talent in genres like R&B, Americana, blues, folk, rock, world music, classical, and hip-hop, while remaining heavily invested in jazz.

The list of performers that have hit the stage over the last four years is a stunning list of global talent, including Prince, Philip Glass, Bela Fleck, Dr. John, Joshua Redman, Tower of Power, Meshell Ndegeocello, Allen Toussaint, Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck, Max Roach, Diana Krall, Roy Hargrove, Talib Kweli, Al Di Meola, Bill Frisell, Stanley Jordan, Arturo Sandoval, John Scofield, and many others.

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Its alluring celebration will, however, have some competition on a packed Saturday that also features the arrival of Farm Aid with Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Kenny Chesney, Billy Strings, Margot Price, and Trampled By Turtles.

Elsewhere around the Twin Cities, concertgoers will find shows from Bonnie Raitt at The Ledge Amphitheater, Pulp at The Armory, and Sparks at The Fitzgerald Theater.

Related: Must-see concerts this week: Nine Inch Nails, she's green, Flaming Lips

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
A 37-year-old man died early Monday after being stabbed in Dallas, police reported.

Justin Edwards was found wounded at a location on Adleta Boulevard around 3:25 a.m. The death marks another violent incident in Dallas as the city grapples with ongoing public safety concerns.

Dallas Fire-Rescue discovered Edwards at the 9900 block of Adleta Boulevard and called for police assistance. Paramedics transported him to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.

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Police have not released information about potential suspects or the circumstances leading to the stabbing. The investigation continues under case number 115131-2025.

Detective S. Gomez is leading the investigation and seeks public assistance. Anyone with information should contact Gomez at (214) 671-3085 or steve.gomez@dallaspolice.gov.
The contractor killed Aug. 7 while working on a project for Yuba Water Agency has been identified as Daniel Bustos-Mendez, 33, of Hayward, the Yuba County Sheriffs Office said Tuesday.

A contractor with the Antioch construction company Drill Tech Drilling and Shoring Inc., Bustos-Mendez was killed in an accident while working on a $77 million tunnel and penstock project for Yuba Water near New Colgate Powerhouse in Dobbins. The construction equipment he was operating fell down an embankment and he died following the accident, the sheriffs office said.

A spokesperson with the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) said Friday that they are investigating the incident, but no further information could be provided.

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In a GoFundMe campaign posted online, Drill Tech said they are heartbroken to share the unexpected passing of our beloved colleague.

For nearly a decade, Daniel played a key role as a lead man on our project teams, Drill Tech continued. He brought positivity, hard work, and an unyielding passion to his role. His dedication to the team, kindness to his coworkers, and unwavering commitment to excellence will never be forgotten.

The company donated $100,000 to the GoFund me campaign, which had raised $150,000 as of Tuesday evening.

The Appeal-Democrat attempted to reach Drill Tech for further comment but was unsuccessful.

Yuba Water is upgrading a four-mile-long rock tunnel and one-mile-long penstock that transports water from the Bullards Bar Reservoir to the New Colgate Powerhouse. The project is expected to be complete in January 2026.
A dark money group has hit Rep. Jody Barrett, a Dickson Republican, with attack ads in the special election for the 7th Congressional District. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

A pro-private school voucher group that poured millions into 2024 Tennessee House races is setting its sights on a Republican in the 7th District Congressional special election.

A dark money group called the School Freedom Fund spent almost $20,000 in early August to oppose state Rep. Jody Barrett, a Dickson Republican. Last year, the School Freedom Fund spent more than $3.1 million in state legislative races to boost candidates who backed Gov. Bill Lees private school voucher program.

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The spending paid off when the legislation narrowly passed the state House at the start of 2025. Barrett vocally opposed and voted against the voucher program.

The groups spending is expected to grow significantly after it reported in June that the political action committee had a $10 million war chest, according to the Federal Election Commission. Dark money is funding raised to influence elections, typically by nonprofits groups not required to disclose the names of donors.

Its not a surprise, Barrett said in response to questions from the Lookout. I think most people who pay attention to state-level politics knew what was coming when they saw who was entering this race to replace Mark Green.

Tennessees election to fill an open seat left by Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Green is set for an Oct. 7 primary, and the general election is scheduled for Dec. 2. He stepped away from the post with more than a year left in his term, creating a surge of interest in the congressional seat: 19 Republicans and five Democrats have picked up petitions to run.

Rep. Lee Reeves, a Franklin Republican, stands to the left of U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, Republican of Tennessees 5th District, at a Memorial Day press conference with, from left, Reps. Kip Capley, Gino Bulso and Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson. Reeves and Bulso are running for Congress in Tennessees 7th District. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

One candidate for the post, Republican state Rep. Lee Reeves of Franklin, benefited to the tune of $787,100 from independent spending by the School Freedom Fund in 2024. Reeves, who did not respond to phone calls but later said in a statement he doesnt comment on independent expenditures, also received an endorsement in his 2024 campaign from Lee, an unusual move from a governor in a state race. Reeves won by less than 100 votes in the Republican primary.

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Club for Growth President David McIntosh, whose group controls independent spending by the School Freedom Fund, recently circulated posts on X, formerly Twitter, saying Barrett is anti-Trump and voted against the school choice bill. The voucher measure will start this year, providing $7,200 each to 20,000 Tennessee students to use for private-school attendance.

Hes the opposite of what we need in TN-07. Kick this snake to the curb, McIntoshs video says.

The post also contains comments from Barrett in 2016 when he supported Texas Sen. Ted Cruz for the presidency and called Trump a liberal douchebag.

Responding to that criticism, Barrett sent comments to the Lookout showing McIntosh also questioned the president by saying, Donald Trump is the worst kind of politician  he will say anything to get elected. It was part of a Club for Growth attack ad that circulated in 2016.

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Barrett said the group is having to dig awfully deep if it is questioning his skepticism about Trump from nine years ago before he took office and showed the type of policies he would support.

Despite $4.5 million in spending by pro-private school voucher groups last year, support for the governors bill gained only a couple of votes, including those of Reeves and Rep. Aron Maberry, a Clarksville Republican. The group spent almost $1.8 million in those two races, far outpacing any other spending.

Republican Sen. Jessie Seal also received independent backing totaling more than half a million dollars in his defeat of the late Sen. Frank Niceley, a Strawberry Plains farmer who died in June. Niceley vocally opposed vouchers.

Seal, a Tazewell Republican, voted against the private-school voucher bill along with first-term Sens. Bobby Harshbarger of Kingsport and Tom Hatcher of Maryville.

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Hashbarger defeated pro-voucher Sen. Jon Lundberg of Bristol, then voted against the bill even though his mother, U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger, is a major supporter of President Trump, who along with Lee called private-school vouchers the civil rights issue of this era.

(Editors note: This story has been updated to reflect comment from Rep. Lee Reeves.)

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DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  The Darlington County Sheriffs Office is asking for the publics help identifying a person it says is tied to a Dollar General armed robbery.

Deputies said it happened Tuesday around 10 p.m. on South Center Road in the Darlington area. Employees described a light skin black male wearing a white T-shirt with blue plaid pajama pants and wearing a mask.

The person brought a bag of candy to the counter and when the clerk opened a register, pulled a handgun from their pocket and asked for money. The person then fled the scene before authorities arrived.

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Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriffs office at (843) 398-4501.

* * *

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.
The country's immigrant population may have dropped by roughly 2 million people in the first six months of the year, according to new government data.

The new data offer an early  if imperfect  signal that President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown may already be showing an impact.

Steven Camarota, director of research at the right-leaning Center for Immigration Studies, said the estimated decline of 2.2 million foreign-born people in the Current Population Survey was the largest such drop in a single year in three decades.

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Either "something has fundamentally changed in America, or the response rate has dramatically changed," he said.

Demographers say it might be both  but either way, the new data has significant limits.

Jed Kolko, senior fellow at the nonpartisan Peterson Institute for International Economics, cautioned that "there arent other current data that can corroborate this enormous estimated decline."

"Even with fewer immigrants coming to the U.S. and more people leaving or being deported, an annual rate of 4 million is an extraordinary number that is way outside the range of immigration estimates that leading researchers have made," said Kolko, who served as Undersecretary of Commerce under President Joe Biden.

Is the data accurate?

The Census surveys 60,000 households every month for the Current Population Survey, which tracks fluctuations in population. That compares to the less frequent, but more reliable, American Community Survey, which is underpinned by interviews with 2 million households.

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Because it's smaller, the population survey may occasionally overstate or understate population shifts, and demographers say it could be years before a full picture emerges.

Julia Gelatt, associate director of U.S. immigration policy at the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute, said the monthly survey "is a really important and helpful tool, but one of its flaws is that it has a small sample size."

The monthly survey data, produced in conjunction with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, has shown "increased volatility" in native-born and foreign-born populations in recent years, according to the Census Bureau, and isn't designed to measure immigration levels.

Are immigrants afraid to answer accurately?

Between the Trump administration's sprawling crackdown on illegal immigration and the onslaught of zero-tolerance messaging, it's possible that some survey respondents are now too scared to tell the government whether they or members of their household are immigrants.

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That could lead to an undercount, Gelatt said.

"Because of the atmosphere  the mass deportation campaigns, the constant announcements  immigrants might be more reticent," she said. "They may be afraid to say they are a noncitizen."

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office entrance in Philadelphia on Aug. 1, 2025.

Migration surged after the pandemic

The post-pandemic wave of immigrants contributed to the country's fastest population growth in more than two decades.

In December, the Census Bureau announced it had updated its methodology to better measure the wave of migration to the United States that followed the global COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 7 million people immigrated to the United States between April 2020 and June 2024, according to the Census Bureau  a "net" estimate that subtracts all the foreign-born people who left during the period.

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Years of surging migration to the United States angered millions of Americans, who saw failed border security in the masses of asylum-seekers awaiting processing at the U.S.-Mexico border during the Biden administration.

Reversing the migration trend

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump vowed to reverse the trend.

He promised to deport 1 million immigrants this year, and his administration has employed aggressive tactics to deliver on it: from a plan to hire 10,000 more deportation agents, to using military aircraft to return immigrants to their home countries, to terminating immigrants' right to post bond when they are detained.

Although deportations have increased, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement data suggest the number may fall well short of 1 million this year.

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ICE has reported 246,000 removals so far this fiscal year, which began in October 2024 and ends Sept. 30 and includes more than three months of data under the Biden administration.

But some other immigrants, here legally or illegally, have chosen to return voluntarily to their home countries. If the population survey is an accurate count, it would represent a mass exodus.

"The trend has been down, down, down  which we normally never see," Camarota said.

Lauren Villagran can be reached at lvillagran@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Census data show the immigrant population declining dramatically
Hurricane Charley rapidly intensified and made landfall in southwest Florida as a Category 4 on this date 21 years ago, then tore across the state's peninsula like a buzzsaw, producing extreme wind damage along the way.

Charley roared ashore near Cayo Costa, Florida, or west of Fort Myers, packing maximum sustained winds of 150 mph on the afternoon of Aug. 13, 2004. The intensification of Charley prior to landfall was a worst-case scenario since nearly eight hours earlier over the eastern Gulf, it was a Category 2 with 110 mph winds.

The fierce hurricane was small in size, but left behind a trail of wind damage resembling a very large tornado from Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte in southwest Florida to Orlando and Daytona Beach as it raced across the Florida Peninsula in just seven hours.

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Orlando, about 125 miles from where Charley first made landfall, measured sustained hurricane-force winds (79 mph) with a peak gust of 105 mph.

Charley's small size prevented storm surge from being as high as you would typically associate with a Category 4. Visual evidence at Sanibel Island suggested a peak storm surge of 6 to 7 feet above ground.

Charley caused an estimated $26.7 billion in damage (adjusted to today's dollars) and was blamed for 35 deaths, according to NOAA.

For Florida, Charley would be just the first of four hurricanes to impact the state in about 45 days during the 2004 season. Charley was followed by Frances and Jeanne making landfall along the state's Atlantic coast, and then Ivan's strike on the western panhandle region.

Wind damage caused by Hurricane Charley in Punta Gorda, Florida. (Photo by Tim Boyles/Getty Images)

Chris Dolce has been a senior digital meteorologist with weather.com for 15 years after beginning his career with The Weather Channel in the early 2000s.
The Foreign Secretary could be fined more than 2,000 after fishing with JD Vance without a licence.

David Lammy was photographed fishing alongside the US vice-president during the second familys stay at Chevening House this weekend.

The Telegraph understands Mr Lammy did not possess a rod licence  which is a requirement in England and Wales  meaning he could be fined up to 2,500 by the Environment Agency.

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It is understood the Foreign Secretary was able to purchase a licence retroactively  despite Defras own website outlining that they must be purchased before the activity itself takes place.

Mr Lammy himself has admitted the error was an administrative oversight and has written to the Environment Agency to notify them of the mistake.

The agency has failed to confirm if Mr Lammy could be fined, or if a member of the public could also apply for a rod licence retroactively.

Labour should apologise

An Environment Agency spokesman said: Everyone who goes fishing needs a licence to help improve our rivers, lakes and the sport anglers love.

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We understand the relevant licences have been purchased.

In February 2025, in a press release announcing a crackdown on unlicensed anglers, Richard Tyner, the area fisheries team leader at the Environment Agency, said the agency will always prosecute those caught cheating the system.

The release said that 6 anglers were taken to Barkingside magistrates court, where they were fined.

The agency said that unlicensed fishing poses a risk to fish stocks and can often cost anglers the species they care about.

In January 2025, a separate release saw the agency announce that buying a rod licence is not expensive and theres no excuse for not having one.

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Licences to fish in the UK range from 7.30 to 13.50 for a day permit.

A Labour source told the Telegraph that there was nothing fishy to see here and added: He landed a big diplomatic catch getting the Vice President to stay for the weekend at Chevening. As soon as he learned of the administrative error he got the relevant licences and notified the Environment Agency to avoid getting caught up.

A source within the Conservative Party told The Telegraph: As per usual with Labour its one rule for them and another for everyone else. Why is it acceptable for the Foreign Secretary to break the rules, but no one else?

Rather than making jokes about how the Foreign Secretary has potentially embarrassed one of our closest and most important allies, perhaps Labour should issue an apology at once.

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Feargal Sharkey, the musician and campaigner, posted on X: You go fishing anywhere in England, by law you need a licence. There are no exceptions.

It is understood both the Foreign Secretary and vice-president returned any fish they caught to the lake.

Mr Lammy joined Mr Vance for talks during the vice-presidents summer break in Britain

Mr Lammy previously said that no one was above the law in a tweet in September 2019, referencing senior Conservative government ministers.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, in April 2022, he also tweeted that Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak must resign now for breaking the laws they enforced on us all.

Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform, called for Mr Lammy to take his own advice and resign.



He added: The Foreign Secretary has been caught hook, line and sinker breaking the law. Ordinary anglers would have reeled in thousands in fines, but under Labours two-tier system David Lammy is able to let himself off the hook.

An administrative error

A spokesman for the Foreign Office said: The Foreign Secretary has written to the Environment Agency over an administrative oversight that meant the appropriate licences had not been acquired for fishing on a private lake as part of a diplomatic engagement at Chevening House last week.

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As soon as the Foreign Secretary was made aware of the administrative error, he successfully purchased the relevant rod fishing licences. He also wrote to the Environment Agency notifying them of the error, demonstrating how it would be rectified, and thanking them for their work protecting Britains fisheries.

On the day of the fishing trip, Mr Lammy said on X that the vice-president gave him fishing tips, Kentucky-style, accompanying the post with an image of the two of them fishing.

Mr Vance is in the UK on a summer holiday, which has attracted backlash including from Jeremy Clarkson, who joined Cotswold residents in suggesting the high-security visit had interrupted the filming of Clarksons Farm.

The Vance family holiday has seen the vice-president meet several political figures, including Mr Lammy, and there are plans for him to meet Robert Jenrick, the former Tory leadership contender, and Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform.

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.
Fall is around the corner, which means the end of this year's daylight saving time is coming up.

In November, millions of Americans will turn back their clocks, marking the end of daylight saving time in 2025. The controversial practice of "springing forward" and "falling back" has been observed in most states for decades.

Under the current daylight saving period, most Americans will lose an hour of sleep on the second Sunday of March and gain an hour on the first Sunday of November.

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Here's what to know about the end of daylight saving time in 2025.

When does daylight saving time end in 2025?

In 2025, daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2.

Do clocks go backward or forward in November?

In the fall, participating states turn clocks backward one hour on the first Sunday of November.

When does daylight saving time begin in 2026?

Dayling saving time begins Sunday, March 8, in 2026.

Why do we gain an hour in November?

At 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, the clocks will fall back an hour and millions of Americans will gain an extra hour of sleep. This event annually marks the end of daylight saving time (DST).

We gain an hour in November to accommodate for more daylight in the mornings. When we "spring forward" in March, it's to add more daylight in the summer evenings.

When does fall start in 2025?

In the Northern Hemisphere, the autumnal equinox is Sept. 22, marking the start of the fall season.

When did daylight saving time start in the U.S.? Why was it created?

Daylight saving time was introduced in the United States in 1918 with the Standard Time Act, which was meant to lower fuel costs during the First World War. The law also established a standard time and allowed the federal government to create five time zones.

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The government stopped observing daylight saving time after World War I ended but reimplemented it during World War II. Congress decided to make daylight saving time permanent for two years from 1973 to 1975, extending the hours of daily sunlight year-round to conserve energy during the oil embargo crisis. However, the law was repealed in 1974 for being unpopular and ineffective.

In 1966, Congress passed the Uniform Time Act, standardizing the length of daylight saving time. The dates we use to observe daylight saving time today  starting on the second Sunday of March and ending on the first Sunday of November  were established in 2005 when Congress amended the Act.

According to the Department of Transportation, daylight saving time saves energy, prevents traffic injuries and reduces crime.

Which states don't have daylight saving time?

Hawaii and parts of Arizona do not participate in daylight saving time. The Navajo Nation  which spans across Arizona, Utah and New Mexico  does observe the time change, making it the lone participant in Arizona.

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The territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands do not observe daylight saving time.

Is it daylight savings time or daylight saving time?

While it's common to hear "daylight savings" with an "s," the correct term is "daylight saving time," since the practice saves daylight.

Is daylight saving time ending permanently?

Not yet. According to The Arizona Republic, there have been discussions about abolishing the semiannual time changes, and President Donald Trump, Elon Musk and others support it. But any permanent change would require congressional approval.

While several states have passed bills to establish year-round daylight saving time, any changes require federal action. Until the Uniform Time Act is repealed or a new federal bill is passed, the time changes will still occur in 2025 and 2026.

Is Ohio considering getting rid of daylight saving time?

No state can adopt permanent daylight saving time unless the U.S. Congress passes a law to authorize it first, USA TODAY reports.

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However, Ohio's House State and Local Government Committee passed House Concurrent Resolution 7 in October 2023, urging Congress to enact the Sunshine Uniformity Act. This act would make daylight saving time permanent and end the bi-annual tradition of changing the clocks.

No state can adopt permanent daylight saving time unless the U.S. Congress passes a law to authorize it first.

The bill was adopted by the House and referred to a Senate committee in December 2023.

What states are considering getting rid of daylight saving time?

Ohio is one of at least 31 states considering legislation related to daylight saving time as of 2025. Here are the states that are considering getting rid of switching time.

Alaska

Arkansas

California

Connecticut

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Maine

Maryland

Massachussetts

Missouri

Mississippi

Nebraska

Nevada

New Jersey

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

South Dakota

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington

Contributing: Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: When does the time change? A look at daylight saving time 2025
Previous coverage on the Dayton Foundation above.

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  The Dayton Foundation has announced the 2025 recipients for its Award for Excellence in Community Leadership.

The recipients of the award received $850 each.

Engineering and Science Foundation of Dayton , which has been a compact fund group since 1995. The group is celebrating 30 years of investing in the community and creating Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education opportunities. The Dayton Foundations critical early-stage grant support has helped Air Camp, the Dayton Regional STEM Center and SOCHE.

Kettering Education Foundation , a fund group since 1993. It has strengthened its Advisory Board, which has helped expand its reach within the Kettering City Schools community.

MercyPets, a fund group since 2003. It has made a direct impact in stopping child malnutrition across the globe.

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Donor relations officer Kate Spencer spoke on the bond between these groups and the foundation.

Each groups efforts, especially during a year filled with special challenges, are worth recognizing for their impact and their deep relationships cultivated with stakeholders and the community at large, said Spencer. Our sincere thanks to each recipient for leading the way and serving as a model and resource to other Dayton Foundation component funds.

$130K+ in Basic Human Needs Grants going to Dayton charities

The deadline to submit a nomination for the next awards program is Friday, May 15, 2026. Nominations are open to any community members or advisors for a Dayton Foundation component fund. Forms will be available in January 2026. Special requests should be made to Kate Spencer by calling 937-225-9952 or emailing kspencer@daytonfoundation.org.

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To learn more about The Dayton Foundation, 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.
Dayton Public Schools is suing the state over legislation it claims is targeted and harmful to students.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As News Center 7 has reported, in July, part of the state budget made it illegal for Dayton Public Schools to buy RTA bus passes for their students to school.

In a lawsuit filed on Aug. 11, DPS calls the law arbitrary, unreasonable, and discriminatory and asks a judge to temporarily block the state from enforcing it.

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DPS claims they are the only school district in the state that could have been impacted by the law.

In addition, the district said its students will suffer irreparable harm.

Without RTA passes, certain students will be unable to consistently attend school. Some students will not be able to attend school at all ... There will be a high risk that students will skip school because of the burdens necessary to get to and from school, court documents state.

We will continue to update this story.

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COZAD  Artist Karrie Steely, a Colorado native and current Hendley, Nebraska resident, shared the story and inspiration behind her new mural, Finding the Art Spirit, on the west side of the First Presbyterian Church, across from the Robert Henri Museum.

During her Aug. 6 presentation at the church, Steely said, I appreciate you inviting me into the community and letting me share my artwork and my creative work for the community.

A founding member of the Creative District in McCook, Steely said she has always been committed to the idea of community building through the arts.

Steely said the mural is deeply influenced by the teachings and philosophy of Robert Henri, whose book The Art Spirit guided her process. The book itself was a huge influence on the work that I did.

She admitted the process was daunting and time-consuming. Along with completing the mural, I also had to include time researching, study colors and painting, she said. Altogether, it took me 10 weeks to complete, which included about eight hours a day, six days a week.

Color was a particular challenge and joy for Steely. I love colors. I always loved color. And when I started to understand, or try to begin to understand, Henris approach to color, I was just gobsmacked, she said.

She explained that mural paints must be lightfast to last outdoors, which limited her palette and required extensive color mixing and studies.

The mural itself is a snapshot of a younger version of Robert Henri when he still lived in Nebraska, Steely said, explaining he used to go by the name of Bobby Cozad at a young age. She used metaphors and symbols to represent the changes in Henris life, including dramatic prairie skies and cattle, which reference pivotal moments in the artists youth.

The skies, to me, are essential, because I love the skies here in Nebraska. I love the prairie skies, she said. The impending storm in the mural signifies the catastrophic changes that were soon to sweep up Roberts life.

Steely also included Easter eggs in the mural, such as poison ivy, a mink with a fish, rattlesnake tail, cattle conflict and gooseberries, all drawn from Henris 1880 diary.

I paid close attention to the little details in his life, because I feel like that is who people are. Its little details that give them personality and help to tell the story, she said.

The murals portrait of Henri was especially challenging. Painting a portrait of a famous artist who also happens to be renowned for his brilliance as a portrait artist was kind of intimidating, but I had to have faith in myself and the process, Steely said. She credited her daughter, Katie, also an artist, with helping her capture Henris youth.

Along with Henris book, Steely said, she also credits a transformative workshop in Spain for deepening her connection to the legacy of Henri.

Steely said she attended The Art Spirit workshop in Spain, where five international artists led sessions exploring Henris techniques and philosophy. The experience, she said, was absolutely incredible and marked a pivotal moment in her artistic journey.

After my experience of doing this mural and studying Henri and learning about Henri, I became obsessed, and I fell in love with him, Steely said.

The workshop brought together about 70 artists from around the world, all inspired by Henris teachings.

Steely said the Spain workshop reinforced the importance of community and lifelong learning in the arts, themes she continues to explore in her work and teachings.

Steely hopes visitors will see the mural differently after hearing her story, while also appreciating the overall features and colors.

In the future, Steely hopes to collaborate more with the Robert Henri Museum, including the addition of a QR code next to the mural. This code would link to more information about the artwork, Steelys creative process and the Easter eggs.

Jill Boyd, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, reflected on the selection and impact of the mural.

Boyd described the congregations involvement in choosing the mural, saying that church members were able to review and rank proposals from various artists.

Steelys design ultimately emerged as the top choice, a decision that resonated with Boyd personally. I picked hers as number one because of the color, and thats what sort of stuck out to me, Boyd said.

Boyd admitted she did not have an artists eye, but expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to learn about the extensive process behind the artwork.

I can look at something, at the end product, and appreciate it. After hearing the process behind the work, it fascinates me even more to look at, she said.

At the end of her presentation, Julie Geiger, a committee member of Cozad Tourism, announced that Steely will also be teaching a color-focused class at the Gathering Place on the second Saturday of each month, open to all interested in learning more about color and creativity.

The mural Finding the Art Spirit was a collaboration among Steely, First Presbyterian Church, Cozad Tourism, the Haymaker Creative District and the Robert Henri Museum.
Hours after President Donald Trump announced an unprecedented move to federalize the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), a man was shot and killed Monday evening in a popular Washington, D.C., neighborhood, marking the 100th homicide in the District so far this year.

According to the MPD, officers from the Third District responded at approximately 6:56 p.m. on Aug. 11 to reports of gunfire in the 1200 block of 12th Street NW in Logan Circle.

They found the victim, later identified as 33-year-old Tymark Wells, of Northwest D.C., unconscious, not breathing and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. D.C. Fire and EMS transported Wells to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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Radical Dc Officials Treated Officers Like Crap, Police Leader Says  7 Attacks That Led To Trump Takeover

Metropolitan Police Department officers investigate a shooting on August 11, 2025 in Washington, DC.

The killing marked the 100th homicide in Washington, D.C., this year and the first since the Trump administration took control of the MPD, according to homicide statistics.

Police have not announced any arrests in the case.

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WATCH:

Trump's Dc Public Safety Sweep Results In 23 Arrests Including Murder Suspect On Opening Day

The shooting occurred just blocks from the scenes of two other recent killings: a congressional intern and a former government official, both cited by Trump as examples of violent crime.

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In announcing the federal takeover of the citys police force, Trump said his administration would take "decisive action" to restore safety in the nations capital.

The Washington, D.C., City Council called the temporary takeover a "manufactured intrusion on local authority."

"Violent crime in the District is at the lowest rates weve seen in 30 years. Federalizing the Metropolitan Police Department is unwarranted because there is no Federal emergency," the council said in a joint statement. "Further, the National Guard has no public safety training or knowledge of local laws. The Guards role does not include investigating or solving crimes in the District. Calling out the National Guard is an unnecessary deployment with no real mission."

Metropolitan Police Department officers investigate a shooting on August 11, 2025 in Washington, DC.

The MPD is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Monday's shooting. Anyone with knowledge of the incident is urged to call (202) 727-9099 or text the departments tip line at 50411.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House and the MPD for comment.

Fox News Digital's Greg Norman contributed to this report.





Original article source: DCs 100th homicide of year puts popular neighborhood on edge as police hunt for killer
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb on Tuesday pushed back on claims by the citys police union head, saying his facts are wrong when it comes to crime in the nations capital.

Crime in the District is out of control, and something needs to be done about it. This concept that crime is down is really an old trope, Gregg Pemberton, chair of the DC Police Union, said in a Tuesday appearance of Fox Business Networks Varney & Co.

Our rank-and-file officers know that were going [from] call to call to call for armed carjacking, stabbings, robberies, shootings, homicides, and the crime isnt going anywhere. And so, we welcome the assistance, and whether thats federal agents or the National Guard, well use it, he added later.

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In response to Pembertons comments, Schwalb told CNNs Kasie Hunt on her show The Arena that with due respect to Mr. Pemberton, I think his facts are wrong.

I think his talking points are wrong. We know whats happening in our city. We have more work to do. We need to all work together to reduce crime to a zero number, but we are going in the right direction under local control, local policies and local leadership. And we need to stay the course, Schwalb added.

Trump announced Monday he was taking federal control of D.C.s police department and deploying the National Guard in the city in an attempt to fight crime.

Our capital city has been overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people, and were not going to let it happen anymore. Were not going to take it, the president said.

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Trump took over the Metropolitan Police Department via the District of Columbias Home Rule Acts Section 740. Congress passed the act in the 1970s to give D.C. control over its local affairs.

The Hill has reached out to the DC Police Union for comment.

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WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  President Donald Trumps plan to take over Washington, D.C.s local law enforcement operations has been met with mixed reaction. But some businesses say additional, more aggressive law enforcement could be part of the solution to the citys crime problem.

Crime data from the citys police department shows burglaries and thefts are down over last year, but crime remains a top concern for people operating storefronts in the District.

Trump, send your boys to Benning Road, Tumika Alston, of the 24/7 Best Tobacco shop at the Hechinger Mall in Northeast D.C., said.

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National Guard members arrive in DC as President Trump declares a public safety emergency

Alstons message to the President comes just a few days after her husbands shop was ransacked when dozens of kids and teens descended on the store Friday night.

There were like 30 of them that came into the store. They took whatever they wanted, but most of them  they threw it outside, made trash. I dont know why they did it, Sajib Uddin said.

He said more kids came back a second time over the weekend, and theyve since cleaned up and restocked. The Metropolitan Police Department confirm it is investigating the incident.

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Uddin and Alston said if it keeps happening, it could force the store to close.

I hope there is going to be action, Uddin said.

President Trump said there will be action, announcing his administration has plans to crack down on teen crime and violence by enforcing stiffer penalties.

Trump invokes DC Section 740. What is the Home Rule Act?

Alston said when it comes to juvenile crimes, the responsibility ultimately falls on their parents.

As parents, theyre supposed to know what their kids are doing. I think the parents should also pay for their kids crimes, Alston said.

Its not clear at this point exactly where the Trump administration plans to focus its efforts in D.C., and which business corridors could be on that list.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
After Donald Trump won the presidential election, Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser flew to Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate to see him.

When Republicans pressured her over the giant Black Lives Matter lettering she installed in front of the White House during Trumps first term, Bowser agreed to remove it. Her reasoning: The city had bigger fish to fry, particularly on managing the federal job cuts Trump has enacted this year.

Now, as Trump federalizes the police in the capital and deploys the National Guard, Bowser faces perhaps the biggest test to date of her leadership and her ability to navigate the White House.

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Bowsers comments in response to the announcement illustrate how shes often trying to communicate multiple messages at one time.

Describing Trumps executive action as unsettling and unprecedented, Bowser on Monday blasted the citys lack of full autonomy without personalizing that frustration or criticizing Trump directly.

I cant say that given some of the rhetoric of the past that were totally surprised, she said.

Minutes later, she suggested the federal intervention may work to the citys benefit and told reporters she didnt have the legal authority to stop Trumps plans.

The fact that we have more law enforcement and presence in neighborhoods, that may be positive, she said.

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But Bowser struck a stronger tone during a virtual conversation with community leaders on Tuesday.

Asked what residents can do, Bowser said, This is a time where community needs to jump in and we all need to, to do what we can in our space, in our lane, to protect our city and to protect our autonomy, to protect our Home Rule, and get to the other side of this guy, and make sure we elect a Democratic House so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push.

The following day, she responded to a question about her relationship with Trump saying, Im the mayor and hes the president. I mean, thats always been our relationship, and the DC mayor and the president of the United States will always have probably more interaction than any city in the rest of our country. So, were going to keep doing our job.

By comparison, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Trump has no credibility in the law and order space.

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The crime scene in D.C. most damaging to everyday Americans is at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, Jeffries posted, referencing the address of the White House.

Other Democrats like Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who dealt with Trumps deployment of the National Guard in her own city, also dismissed the presidents actions.

To me, it just all boiled down to being a stunt and I just dont think you should use our troops for political stunts, said Bass.

Christina Henderson, a member of the DC council, suggested she empathized with the difficult balance Bowser is trying to strike. She noted that only in 1973 did Congress allow DC residents to elect a mayor, council members and neighborhood commissioners, but prohibited the council from enacting certain laws and the city from having voting members in the US House or Senate.

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You do not want to be the mayor that loses home rule and that there is no mayor after you, Henderson said.

At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson at the Wilson Building in Washington, DC, on August 1. - Allison Robbert/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Asked if she planned to push back harder in the wake of an unprecedented undermining of her authority, Bowser said Monday, My tenor will be appropriate for what I think is important for the district and whats important for the district is that we can take care of our citizens.

Veteran city reporter Tom Sherwood, a political analyst for DC public radio station WAMU, says Bowser is trying to be strategic.

I believe that the mayor has done all she can do to tend to the weather-vane attitude of President Trump, Sherwood said. The image from the president is that the district is a liberal, mostly Black city that doesnt care about fighting crime, and so thats left the mayor and the DC Council as prime targets for him.

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Anti-Trump sentiment is fierce in activist spaces across the city, which former Vice President Kamala Harris won last year with 90% of the vote.

At a demonstration this week, the Free DC project, a movement grounded in demanding DC statehood, denounced the Trump administrations actions. Organizers accused Trump of trying to provoke violence and compared immigration arrests to kidnappings.

A protestor holds a placard as local residents rally against President Donald Trump's plans to activiate federal law enforcement in Washington, DC, on August 11. - Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images

Black Washingtonians have long recognized that community violence cannot be solved through state violence, said Free DCs organizing director Nee Nee Taylor, questioning the effectiveness of policing over investing in social programs to uplift the most vulnerable.

We will not be idle as oppressors structures try to harm our communities and take power, she added.

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When asked if she was disappointed Bowser was not mirroring the intense pushback as seen and heard from community members on city streets, Taylor said she thinks the mayor is doing all she can and that she is occupying a different role.

I think shes standing up to the best of her ability, being that DC is not a state, Taylor said.

This story has been updated with additional details.

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D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) shot back at President Trumps federal takeover of Washingtons Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) on Tuesday, decrying the move as an authoritarian push by the administration.

This is a time where community needs to jump in, um, and we all need to, to do what we can in our space in our lane to protect our city  and to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule, and get to the other side of this guy, and make sure we elect a Democratic house so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push, Bowser said during town hall with community leaders.

So dont let your kids be a part of that, like, know where your kids are and make sure theyre not grouping together because they will be a target, she added.

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Trump revealed Monday he would deploy the National Guard to assist local law enforcement in patrolling the nations capital and that the administration would temporarily have oversight over the MPD, painting the District as riddled with violent crime.

The crime in Washington has been down compared to last year and 2023, but the number of homicides in 2024 is still higher than the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. On Tuesday, the city reached 100 homicides so far this year.

The presidents decision was backed by Gregg Pemberton, the head of the DC Police Union, who argued that the effort is a critical stopgap amid crime in the city.

We stand with the President in recognizing that Washington, D.C., cannot continue on this trajectory. Crime is out of control, and our officers are stretched beyond their limits, Pemberton said in a statement.

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Bowsers rebuke of Trumps decision comes as she struck a more conciliatory tone Monday after the presidents formal announcement.

Im going to work every day to make sure its not a complete disaster. Let me put it that way, she told reporters on Monday.

The mayor met with Attorney General Pam Bondi on Tuesday, and the two agreed to work closely.

During her appearance on The Breakfast Club radio show on Tuesday, Bowser also reupped her call for the Districts statehood.

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  The deadline for payment of unsecured property taxes in Kern County is Sept. 2, Kern County Treasurer and Tax Collector Jordan Kaufman announced on Wednesday.

Unsecured personal property tax bills are for business equipment, farm equipment, aircraft, boats and other similar items not attached to real estate, Kaufman said in a county press release.

The unsecured tax bills were mailed on July 10 to all unsecured property owners who owned personal property as of Jan. 1 and whose addresses the County Assessor-Recorder was aware of, Kaufman said.

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KHSD, BPD investigate non-credible threat at Frontier HS: KHSD

Taxpayers can ask questions or make payments for their property taxes in three different ways:

Via mail to KCTTC PO Box 541004, Los Angeles, CA 90054-1004.

In person at the Treasurer-Tax Collectors Office located at 1115 Truxtun Ave., 2nd floor in Bakersfield.

At the Treasurer-Tax Collectors website.

Electronic checks (ACH) can be used for online payments with zero fees, according to Kaufman. Credit cards and debit cards have a 2.19% card processing fee based on the tax amount paid both online and in person, with a minimum fee of $2.

To avoid a 10% penalty, payments must be made on or before Sept. 2, Kaufman said. If you dont have a tax bill, you can request a replacement tax bill or learn the amount of taxes due by calling 661-868-3490 or via email at TTC@KernCounty.com.

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For more information about property tax, parcel and payment information, visit the Treasurer-Tax Collectors website.

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Negotiators from 184 countries remained riven Wednesday on how to curb plastic pollution, less than 36 hours before they were slated to deliver a binding global treaty.

Diplomats are "at the edge of a cliff," one official observer told AFP.

Dozens of ministers have arrived in Geneva to try to break the deadlock as the 10-day talks hurtle towards a close, but widely divergent positions have made the search for a so-called landing zone "very difficult", according to Danish Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke.

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A new draft of the treaty text, streamlined by the talks chair, is expected later Wednesday, several sources told AFP. A plenary meeting to take stock of where things stand is scheduled for 7:00 pm (1700 GMT).

The debate continues to pit the so-called "Like-Minded Group" of chiefly oil-producing countries that refuse restrictions on the production of plastic -- a derivative of oil -- or certain chemicals thought to be harmful to health against a much larger "high ambition" bloc that favours such measures.

David Azoulay, director of the environmental health programme at the Center for International Environmental Law group, told AFP he expects the new summary text to be "very weak" and a "lowest common denominator", falling short of the treaty's purpose: resolving the global plastic pollution crisis.

"Negotiators are at the edge of a cliff," said Pamela Miller, co-chair of the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), which has official observer status.

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The World Wide Fund for Nature's Eirik Lindebjerg fears last-minute compromises will result in a "bad deal".

WWF has identified "more than 150 countries in favour of a ban on certain plastics and toxic products, and 136 keen to strengthen the treaty over time," he told AFP.

Graham Forbes, head of the Greenpeace delegation, echoed this sentiment, telling AFP on Wednesday that "ministers must reject a weak treaty".

Other observers, however, suggested there was not enough attention given to the industrial transformations required in producing countries for the talks to succeed.

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"Some are approaching the issue from the perspective of industrial policy, international trade and market access but are not being listened to, while on the other side they are talking about regulation, the environment and health," Aleksandar Rankovic from The Common Initiative think-tank, told AFP.

"It can't work."

im/mh/rjm/giv
PHOENIX - Officer-involved shooting in the East Valley leaves suspect dead; calls for probe into Arizona DCS after child deaths; and more - here's a look at some of your top stories on FOX10Phoenix.com for Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

1. Deadly officer-involved shooting in the East Valley

What we know

One person is dead following an officer-involved shooting in Chandler.

What they're saying

"The fugitive was wanted by the United States Marshals Service for a federal probation violation warrant with original charges of alien smuggling," read a portion of a statement released by the U.S. Marshals Service.

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2. Family of Texas flooding victim files lawsuit

(Courtesy: U.S. Coast Guard District 8)

What we know

A Texas law firm has filed a lawsuit in Kerr County that is related to the deadly flooding back in July.

Why you should care

The suit, which was filed on behalf of the family of a 22-year-old who died in the floods, is believed to be the first lawsuit in Kerr County that is related to the incident.

Read More

3. Prosecutors seek death penalty in officer's shooting death

What we know

Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller announced on Aug. 12 that his office intends to seek the death penalty against 37-year-old Roger Nunez, the suspect involved in the murder of Apache Junction police officer Gabriel Facio.

What they're saying

"People need to take a stand against what is happening with police," said Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller. "People don't respect police officers anymore, and unfortunately, this kind of disrespect is leading to assault, casualties, and murder."

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4. CDC shooting: Georgia officials release photo of suspect

What we know

Georgia investigators have revealed new details surrounding a shooting at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta on Aug. 8.

Dig deeper

Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Hosey confirmed that 30-year-old Patrick Joseph White (pictured) had no known criminal history, but did have contact with police several weeks before the shooting.

Read More

5. AZ child murders could have been avoided, according to state lawmaker

What we know

Following the deaths of Emily Pike, Zariah Dodd, and Rebekah Baptiste (pictured), lawmakers want to accelerate an investigation into Arizona's Department of Child Safety (DCS).

What they're saying

"I believe absolutely that they could have been prevented if there were proper protocols in place in the group home and DCS," State Sen. Carine Werner said.

Read More

A look at your weather for tomorrow

Get the Full Forecast
Former "Superman" actor Dean Cain ridiculed "Last Week Tonight" host John Oliver on Monday over his monologue claiming Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was "f---ed" if they let the actor join its ranks.

Near the end of his show on Sunday, Oliver mocked both ICE and Cain over news that ICE had removed its age limits and would be swearing in the "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" star as an "honorary ICE officer."

"You know, there's an old saying in Hollywood: If all you can get is Dean Cain, you are f---ed," Oliver said on his show.

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"Now, I'm not saying that ICE isn't finding people. I'm just saying, when you are reduced to pinning a badge on the 59-year-old star of 'The Dog Who Saved Christmas,' 'The Dog Who Saved Christmas Vacation,' 'The Dog Who Saved the Holidays,' 'The Dog Who Saved Halloween,' 'The Dog Who Saved Easter,' and 'The Dog Who Saved Summer,' maybe you are in trouble."

John Leguizamo Torches Dean Cain As A 'Loser' For Joining Ice, But Superman Actor Offers Gentle Reply

He added, "Although, on the plus side, no need for that guy to wear a mask because the chances of anyone recognizing him are f---ing zero."

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Cain mocked the HBO host in kind on X the next morning.

"He stole that mask joke from the internet -- and he also laughed hysterically when Trump said he was going to run for President. Case closed. (and those movies were sweet, by the way!)," Cain wrote.

During the show, Oliver also gave advice to viewers on how to interact with ICE agents, telling them to only say "Am I free to leave?" and "I want to speak to a lawyer."

"And I recognize that in some cases you may be unable to help yourself from saying, 'Didnt you used to be Superman? I thought you died. I cant believe Im meeting a filmmaker, but that really is it," Oliver joked.

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Former Superman Actor Dean Cain Sworn In As Reserve Police Officer

Cain talked to Fox News Digital about his decision to join ICE last week.

Cain will be sworn in as an honorary officer in the coming month, assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin, the Department of Homeland Securitys spokesperson, said. Although it wasnt immediately clear what his duties as an honorary officer would entail.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Cain described joining ICE as a way to show support for the officers that he believes were being "vilified" for doing their jobs.

"If you're a legal citizen here in this country, no worries, you're great, but if you're here illegally, you've broken the law to begin with, whatever the circumstances are. You had multiple opportunities to self-deport, and the fact that these men and women who are doing their jobs are getting vilified, I had to stand up with them and for them, because I think it takes people standing up to change the culture," Cain said.

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Cain also defended joining ICE during a heated debate with anti-Trump The Bulwark host Tim Miller on "Piers Morgan Uncensored" on Monday.

"Now we've got ICE agents  and, apparently, former Superman actors  who are going to jump out of vans and nab them and hold them in deportation cells. That's insane. Like, that's not how you act in a free country," Miller mocked.

"I'm not untrained," Cain shot back, bringing up how he became a deputy sheriff and a reserve police officer nearly a decade ago.

"So, I don't know why you're saying untrained. And by the way, when you join ICE, they train you. So, to say that and try to denigrate because I'm an actor, I shouldn't be able to be concerned about what's going on with our borders or with our law enforcement agencies is denigrating. It's ridiculous. Should I say because you're a former Republican strategist, you have no say on anything? That's baloney," he added.





Original article source: Dean Cain fires back after John Oliver insults, ICE criticism
An inmate in a Tucson prison died Aug. 9 under unknown circumstances, according to the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry.

Elmer Shields, 32, died at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Tucson facility, according to a death notification from the state prison system.

"Inmate Shields was admitted to ADCRR custody in 2020 after being sentenced out of Maricopa County for a Dangerous Drug Violation, Threatening or Intimidating, and Possession of Burglary Tools," the statement read.

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Donna Leone Hamm, director of Middle Ground Prison Reform, told The Arizona Republic in an email that Shields' mother was told by the Corrections Department that his death was labeled as a murder, and that an autopsy was to be performed.

According to his inmate profile on the Corrections Department website, Shields was placed in close custody, the second-highest custody classification, five months before his death.

That classification  a notch below maximum security  placed Shields in a group of inmates second most likely to attempt an escape or commit violence, according to the state prison website.

Close custody is described as a classification by the state prison website as "inmates who represent a high risk to the public and staff. These inmates shall not be assigned to work outside the secure perimeter of an institution. These inmates require controlled movement within the institution," the website explains.

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Earlier this year, inmates Saul Alvarez, Thorne Harnage and Donald Lashley were slain at the prison. Longtime inmate Ricky Wassenaar was named by the Corrections Department as the "sole suspect" in the three April 4 killings.

Rey Covarrubias Jr. reports breaking news for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Email him at: rcovarrubias@gannett.com, and connect with him on Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) at @ReyCJrAZ.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Death of Arizona prisoner Elmer Shields under investigation
Native Vote. On Monday, Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and current candidate for governor of New Mexico, concluded her Lift Up New Mexico Tour by meeting with voters at the grand opening of her campaigns Albuquerque office. Over the course of the 15-stop tour, Haaland met with residents in rural communities to hear their concerns about the rising cost of livingfrom housing to everyday essentials like a cup of coffee.

So many New Mexicans have welcomed me into their towns over these last few months, and today I was excited to welcome them into my campaign headquarters. Im excited to be opening our doors to the campaigns Albuquerque office and continue to hear from voters about the issues that matter most to them. This campaign has always and will continue to be about working with New Mexicans against a broken system and expanding opportunities for every person in our state, Haaland said.

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.

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The event drew dozens of supporters who came to share their hopes for New Mexicos future. Attendees engaged in conversations about the key challenges facing the state, including healthcare, education, and public safety. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) also joined the gathering and voiced her strong support for Haalands candidacy.

In just six months since launching her campaign, Haaland has traveled to all 33 counties in New Mexico, engaging directly with thousands of residents and gathering input to help shape her vision for the state.

Deb Haaland has never shied away from a fight. From her time in Congress to her work as Secretary of the Interior, shes fought for our lands, our waters, our communities, and our families. Her heart is in it for New Mexico, and her extensive leadership experience that our state deserves in the governors office, said Rep. Melanie Stansbury.

The opening of the Albuquerque office caps off an energetic first phase of Haalands campaign, which has included securing nearly 100 endorsements. Supporters include U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan, Representatives Melanie Stansbury, Gabe Vasquez, and Teresa Leger Fernandez, along with major organizations such as Common Defense and Conservation Voters of New Mexico.

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About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. "

Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net
The Merrimack River near Sewalls Falls in Concord. (Photo by Dana Wormald/New Hampshire Bulletin)

Like people, rivers suffer from lack of care and concern. The 117 miles of the Merrimack River, known colloquially as the Mighty Merrimack, generously supply drinking water to over 600,000 residents in Concord, Nashua, Manchester, and Haverhill, Lowell, and Lawrence, Massachusetts. The river rises at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee rivers in Franklin and empties into the Atlantic in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

But it has suffered for centuries.

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Prior to European settlement, Native peoples inhabited its shores  the Agawam and Naumkeag (Nashua), Souhegan and Namoskeag (Manchester), Pennacook (north of Bow), and the Winnepisseogee (Lakes Region)  and named the river Merrimack, meaning dark and deep.

Since last centurys industrial boom, their ancestral waters have been dammed and canalled, resulting in severe degradation. Manchester residents remember as children swimming in water of unusual colors, odors, and vegetation. In the 1960s, the Merrimack was considered one of the 10 most polluted U.S. rivers due to years of unmediated dumping of raw sewage, paper and textile mill discharge, and tannery sludge.

Environmentalist Donald Eaton Carr described it as haunted with the oldest and most hopeless pollution of any in the country.

In 1973, phthalates, a group of chemicals used to manufacture plastics, were identified in high concentrations. In 1976 a study found road salt to be the major polluter. A 1997 study found elevated bacteria counts, low dissolved oxygen, and high nutrient levels. A 2002 water assessment detected elevated E. coli and coliform counts. By the 2020s the biggest concern was pollution from combined sewage overflow.

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Wildlife has suffered from the contamination of shellfishing beds and aquatic life from contaminated habitats resulting from excess lead, zinc, and heavy metals, such as mercury, which poses a significant threat to fish. Though the Clean Water Act of 1972 improved the rivers infrastructure with funding for a wastewater treatment plant in Manchester, the Merrimack remains one of the most endangered rivers (named by American Rivers, 2016).

Current concerns include stormwater runoff, high levels of bacteria, phosphorus creating harmful algal blooms, reduced oxygen levels, illicit sewage, and litter. Due to infrastructure issues in the sewage system, untreated sewage flows directly into the Merrimack during combined sewage overflows.

What a toxic and tragic evaluation for a river honorably named by Chandler Eastman Potter as the place of strong current (merruh meaning strong and auke meaning place) and by Henry David Thoreau as the Sturgeon River.

Fortunately, conservationists are deeply committed to its restoration.

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To protect New Hampshire waterways, the NH Network Plastics Working Group is advocating for a statewide plastic bag ban.

Neighbors near the treatment plant, with support from the Conservation Law Foundation, are petitioning to reduce and/or eliminate PFAS and other forever chemicals contained in the sewage sludge from upstream industries from being burned at high temperatures, contaminating the air, and leaching into groundwater and the river itself.

The Merrimack Conservation Partnership, a consortium of 30 environmental organizations, is dedicated to protecting the watershed by promoting advocacy, restoration, outreach, and education.

The Merrimacks water has been thoroughly tested and analyzed, but only Rocky Morrison of the Clean River Project has committed to its cleanup.

Raised on the river, Morrison would fish and canoe often, steering his boat clear of the trash build-up along the sandbars. He was disgusted, he said, by the trash along the shoreline, and launched the first Merrimack River Scavenger Hunt with the goal of retrieving as much debris as possible. In 2007, he organized a tire pull-out day, which collected 584 tires and 23 cars.

Years later theres not much Rocky hasnt seen or pulled out: 86 cars, thousands of tires, televisions, household appliances, furniture, bikes, trash, barrels, car parts, hypodermic needles, and tons of plastic bags. With seven boats, one equipped with a hydraulic arm, and booms along the shoreline, he collects 30-yard dumpster loads of accumulated refuse that gets recycled with the help of students from area high schools, community volunteers, and local business partners.

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His mission is, simply stated, to clean, protect and provide a safer water supply to the people and wildlife in the many cities and towns who rely heavily on a treasured natural resource for drinking and pleasure.

Morrison views the river as a public good, fostering community. For over two decades he has formed a lasting friendship with the Merrimack and its concerned allies.

His story is one of a boy who loved a river  and an enduring desire to keep it clean and healthy.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A pair of young siblings from Mexico were rescued by Border Patrol agents during last weeks heat wave as they were attempting to enter the U.S. illegally, authorities said.

On Wednesday around 4 p.m., San Diego Sector agents assigned to the Brownfield Border Patrol Station encountered a severely dehydrated 16-year-old boy who was unaccompanied in the remote Otay Mountain Wilderness, located east of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry.

According to a news release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, agents requested emergency medical services and the boy was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment due to his condition.

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Border officers shoot at driver who nearly struck them at Otay Mesa crossing

The rescue came as communities in the valleys and mountain areas of San Diego County were under heat advisories on Wednesday, with an extreme heat warning of triple-digit temperatures in the desert communities.

The boy told agents his 12-year-old sister was left behind on the trail they had been following. He said she was also very dehydrated and could no longer walk, CBP said.

A CBP Air and Marine helicopter was deployed to the wilderness to locate the girl with the assistance of San Diego Sector Border Patrol search, trauma and rescue agents.

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The young girl was found conscious and in stable condition, according to CBP. She was airlifted from the wilderness and taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for medical care.

The pair of siblings were released from the hospital last Friday and will be processed following San Diego Sector guidelines, authorities said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
UPDATE: The Matties Call has been canceled. Police say Mr. Melson is now safe and in good health

ORIGINAL AUG. 13, 2025

DeKalb County police are looking for a missing, endangered man.

Hubert Melson, 79, left his home on Valley Creek Drive in Tucker on Tuesday, driving his green 2003 Ford Expedition with Georgia tag PDC1339.

Police say he was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease last year.

He is approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs about 165 pounds.

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If you see him, please call the DeKalb County Police Departments Special Victims Unit at 770-724-7710.

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DEL CITY, Okla. (KFOR)  A father and son are left scratching their heads after a solar panel company came to do an installation and then ghosted them.

Daniel Anderson and his 98-year-old father live together, and earlier this year, they were interested in getting solar panels installed.

Andersons home. Image KFOR

A salesman appeared at their door, and it seemed to be a perfect coincidence.

The man claimed to work for Green Light Solar, a company servicing Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, and Arizona.

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I told him I wanted to pay cash for it. I didnt want to do the financing, Anderson said.

Before the installation in April, Mother Nature took a blow at their roof during a hailstorm. They were in need of a roof replacement and wanted to hold off on the panels, but the company insisted on going through with the project, saying they would remove them when the roofers were ready to make the repair.

IN YOUR CORNER: Overflowing trash fixed at apartments after News 4 story

He kept wearing us down, talking to us again and again, saying, No, its not going to be a problem. We finally let him go ahead and do it, called him a week later to have them taken off because the roofer was ready to come out, and no phone call back, no ones talking to me, Anderson added.

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Its now been four months, the panels are still on the home and do not work. Anderson and his father are now being billed for the project, costing them more than $40K.

Anderson said, The panels on the roof dont know what to do with them, cant really take them down because were afraid of liability on them, you know, such a bad situation all the way around for us.

News 4 tried calling the company, and no one answered. We also tried emailing and havent heard back.

What I want to have happen is I want the company to come out and take their panels and go away. I want the finance company to go away, Anderson said.

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Anderson said he filed a complaint with Attorney General Gentner Drummonds office, but his complaint was sent to the Texas AG, because its believed the company is based there.

We reached out to Drummonds office to see how many complaints they receive from fraudulent solar companies in the state. They were unable to get us that information due to a network outage.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Lawmakers are poised to send districts back to the drawing board on school taxes.

In a contentious special session on Aug. 12, a bill to allow New Castle County school systems a second shot at resetting their tax rates passed in the Delaware House and Senate before 10 p.m. The bill, filed by Rep. Kim Williams and lined with some two dozen fellow Democrat sponsors by that afternoon, stands to allow districts to split their rates between residential and nonresidential properties.

Gov. Meyer signed it into law just after midnight on Aug. 13.

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Democrats say reform there is key for immediate relief, though not a silver bullet.

That's because the state's most populous county saw its first reassessment in over 40 years swing a much heavier tax burden onto residents, as compared to commercial properties. For many homeowners, it sent values and school bills skyward. Meanwhile, nonresidential assessments by Tyler Technologies tended to increase at a much lower rate. That meant many  though not all  businesses saw a tax break.

Still waiting on that appeal? Tax refund bill to aid Delaware taxpayers heads to Meyer

That remains the result of New Castle County's reassessment. But now, some intermediate fallout could be mitigated.

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Splitting the rate means setting a higher tax rate on commercial properties  or bringing them closer to previous year's share of tax burden  while setting a lower rate for residents with the difference. Wilmington and New Castle County already did this, in early spring.

Legislative Hall in Dover as seen on June 30, 2025.

Tuesday's bill would require that such rates are at least equal, that the commercial rate not be more than two-times the residential and that districts forecast the same revenue previously approved.

This could bring some substantial relief to homeowners this year, though it will not erase bill increases. It now also extends general deadline to pay by two months, to Nov. 30.

Some Republican lawmakers expressed concern higher rates on commerical properties would stunt business growth. Democratic sponsor Williams cautioned this bill is meant to soften the resident impact this year alone, as more work is needed on education funding.

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The measure joins other reform to be turned out in a one-day session, such as requiring payment plans on school taxes and refunds following appeals. Two Senate bills also supported similar measures in hindsight, codifying established common law that allowed localities to separately tax different classes of property "if the classification is reasonable."

The governor was not seen Tuesday, and did not respond to requests for comment on the timeline to sign products out of special session. After he signed the bills, he said that there is still work to do.

"Delaware for generations has prided itself in quality schools and affordable communities, Meyer said in a statement from an early morning press release. We still, together, have a lot of work to do, but today's special session was a step in the right direction."

Once he does, districts would have 10 business days to deliver.

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What about Sussex County? Southern Delaware school districts take reassessment bumps

Delaware school districts already poised to jump on split rates

From left, Rep. Daniel Short, Rep. Bryan Shupe and House Minority Whip Jeffrey Spiegelman clap during a special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

This idea isn't exactly new.

To say nothing of surrounding states, by this April, the City of Wilmington and New Castle County had presented split rates for residential and nonresidential parcels for the first time. According to the county, it looked to ease homeowner tax burden by holding them at about 69% of base, not the post-assessment 75%.

Soon, where systems typically get a boring file on the tax base in March, they got incomplete lines of reassessment data around June. Before getting to new tax rates or any percentages on top  school fianance officials had to calculate their base and bake in risk, with some 5,200 properties still out for appeal.

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They were already on deadline to issue tax warrants by early July, while Delaware code never spelled out how to handle it. CFOs across the county communicated on their tactics, and many said conversations touched on the question of split rates.

"There's no allowance for doing that," said Ted Ammann, Red Clay's chief operating officer, of previous state code. "So, with a million things to do, you do the 990,000 that you can do  and you don't focus on the ones that you can't do."

Then, bills dropped.

"That's where it really comes out, right?" he continued. "You can look at spreadsheets filled with parcels and all that, but it's when the individual person sees the individual bill and says: 'How did this happen?'"

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Look back: New Castle County schools take reassessment boons

This also means  regardless of how school districts tweaked their tax revenue on top, which they did  many residents were set to be clobbered with higher tax debt.

Fast forward. From the clouds of angry calls and frustrated resident emails across July and August, finance heads began advocating to lawmakers for split rates.

Christina School District CFO Bob Vacca fell among them.

"Legislators should have been told immediately: 'You probably want to split these rates so that you can do the same with the schools," Vacca said in late July. Albeit in hindsight, legislators called for meetings with school districts to be brought up to speed. And most CFOs were consistent.

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"Give me a commercial and residential rate," Vacca said. "Let me reset the rate so that we can fix this problem."

However, "relief" will vary between every property owner.

So, what's does it mean for your bill?

Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton prepares to speak at special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

First, districts have to do some math.

Vacca informally estimated needing fewer than 10 days to reconfigure his rates, wherein he planned to shift as much of the burden as possible back to commercial properties. Ammann estimated a similar timeline, with aims to hold commercial similar to last year's share of burden.

In either case, projected revenue must hold.

Back House chambers, Vacca said he anticipates county school CFOs will get together in the coming days to confirm methodology, "so we can be consistent."

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Next, school districts must reissue a tax warrant. New Caste County would then "supplement" any bill already issued, with the adjusted amount. Again, this will not erase bill hikes across the county. However, with commercial properties taking back some of the burden, it may make the pain less sharp for homeowners.

Anyone who overpays based on previous billing would be entitled to a property tax credit, according to the bill, or they can submit a written request for a direct refund.

Overall, this has been a messy process. And with several proposals sidelined Tuesday, reassessment fallout is likely to reach regular session to come.

What do you want to know about reassessment? Contact Kelly Powers at kepowers@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Gov. Meyer signs bill to split school tax rates in New Castle County
Regional commuters continue waiting on Pennsylvania lawmakers to see if they will approve legislation that will provide SEPTA with enough funding needed to avoid service cuts on Aug. 14, including in Delaware where close to 4,000 people use the service daily.

Pennsylvania's state Senate approved a budget on Aug. 12 advancing legislation that would fund SEPTA and other transportation infrastructure in the state for two years, according to reports. But the plan is opposed by Democrats, who control the state House of Representatives where the $1.2 billion transportation proposal is heading.

SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer told the Philadelphia Inquirer he needed more clarification about funding sources and expected "to remain in close contact with all parties in this negotiation as we continue to await a solution that will provide adequate sustainable funding for SEPTA's future."

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More: As SEPTA service hangs in the balance, Delaware looks to build its own passenger rail line

A sign providing notice of a last call to board a SEPTA train to Philadelphia on April 13, 2025.

Sauer initially criticized the Senate's proposal, saying it creates new problems, according to the Inquirer, but his change in attitude came after discussions with Senate Republican staff.

The Senate's plan matches Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's request for $292 million for transportation and infrastructure in the state, but rather than using sales tax revenue like Shapiro proposed, the money would come from the Public Transportation Trust Fund, according to WHYY-FM.

Democrats expressed frustration with the change, telling WHYY that money from the Public Transportation Trust Fund is already earmarked for necessary system and safety upgrades. Republicans argue the fund's remaining $1.1 billion is more than enough to cover the costs.

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SEPTA, which carries close to 4,000 passgners per day in Delaware, is set to start cutting services as legislators are unable to agree on long-term funding for the service. SEPTA faced a budget deficit of at least $213 million as of July, and officials have described the potential cuts as a "death spiral" for transportation infrastructure in southeastern Pennsylvania and beyond.

What Delaware can expect

The cuts will be punishing in Delaware.

Services in the First State would be cut in half within the next six months and there would be a winding down of service on its Wilmington/Newark Line, a commuter rail line from Newark to Temple University in north Philadelphia.

SEPTA fare signage at the Claymont Station on April 14, 2025.

Without additional funding from Pennsylvania, SEPTA service in Delaware would immediately become more expensive. Fares would increase by an average of 20% across the network for reduced service. SEPTA has the rail line and one bus route that stops at the Claymont Transit Center, which was a $90 million investment into regional public transportation that would become a big bus stop.

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The first effects will be felt this month with midday trains being reduced from hourly to every two hours, and some peak and evening trains would be terminated. In January, trains stop coming, replaced by a bus that will go to Chester Transit Center, and then to 69th Street Transit Center in West Philadelphia. The closest train line ending would be at the Wawa station in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Bus route 113 from Claymont to the 69th Street Transit Center would be reduced by 20%. That route takes an hour and a half.

According to numbers from the SEPTA data group, the Wilmington/Newark line carries about 4,000 passengers every weekday.

That's about half of 2019 ridership, but ridership had been crawling back since the worst of the pandemic in 2020. A Delaware Department of Transportation spokesperson said on April 11 that Delaware's train line saw the highest ridership since that fateful year.

'Downward decline'

The cuts are a result of a SEPTA Board operating budget approved in late June when Pennsylvania lawmakers couldn't resolve funding issues.

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Their budget came despite Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer writing a letter to SEPTA board members in May offering to collaborate on solutions. In his plea, Meyer said he understood the funding challenges for the service, but cutting services would "perpetuate a downward decline."

The train was packed with Eagles fans, drinking coffee and more, before the sun rose on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, before the Super Bowl Parade was set to kick off near the sports complex in Philadelphia.

The deal that operates the trains in Delaware was signed between the Delaware Transit Corp. and SEPTA in November 2002. A Delaware Department of Transportation spokesperson told Delaware Online/The News Journal in April that any kind of programming adjustments to Delaware rail service must have 90 days' advance and be mutually agreed upon.

The agreement can be terminated by SEPTA if Pennsylvania does not provide sufficient funding to service as it existed in 2002.

The Delaware Transit Corp., which runs the DART buses, pay around $10.6 million every year to SEPTA for the trains and Amtrak to use its Northeast Corridor tracks, which run through New Castle County. Newark and Wilmington will continue to have Amtrak trains, no matter what happens with SEPTA.

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The system has served Delaware since 1989, first at Wilmington and then growing to Claymont, Newark and Churchmans Crossing over the next decade.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware SEPTA users wait on budget funding before service cuts
A Delta Airlines plane clipped an empty airliner on the runway in Atlanta on Sunday.

The jet, which was ready for departure to Guatemala City, was pushing back from the gate when its wing reportedly made contact with another aircraft, the airline announced.

The wing of DL1830 reportedly made contact with another Delta aircraft during pushback at the gate. There were no reports of injuries for crew or customers on the flight," a spokesperson for the airline said. "We apologize to our customers for the experience and delay in their travels."

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With nearly 200 passengers and crew onboard, there were no injuries reported.

The passengers were transferred to another aircraft and, after a four-hour delay, were on their way to their destination.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the collision occurred in an area where air traffic controllers do not communicate with flight crews." An investigation is currently being conducted.

Related: United Airlines Grounds All U.S. Flights Until Further Notice

One week prior, Delta announced it would be terminating its contract with Unifi, a ground handling service, and more than 300 employees in Atlanta would be laid off at the end of the contract.

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Delta "recently notified Unifi that it will no longer need aviation commissary services after the last contracted department on Sept. 30, 2025, and will terminate the aviation commissary services provided by Unifi pursuant to contractual provisions," a letter from the company stated.

According to WSB-TV, however, the affected Delta employees "will be offered roles with the next company Delta uses or in other roles at the airport."

The airline announced its new partnership with Newrest, adding that "all Unifi employees have been given the opportunity to join the Newrest team.

Delta Plane Collides With Another Jet Before Takeoff in Atlanta first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
Receiving a diagnosis like dementia doesnt happen overnight, but the amount of time it takes to learn whats really going on has always been a little hazy. Now, new research has pinpointed how long it takes on average to get a dementia diagnosisand theres a greater span between initial symptoms and diagnosis than most people realize.

The scientific review, which was published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, is the first to break down evidence from around the world on the general timeline for diagnosing dementia. Heres what the study found, plus what neurologists want you to keep in mind.

Meet the expert: Clifford Segil, DO, is a neurologist at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; Amit Sachdev, MD, is the medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University.

What did the study find?

For the study, researchers analyzed data from 13 studies on dementia that were conducted across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and China. Overall, the studies featured 30,257 participants.

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After crunching the numbers, the researchers discovered that it usually takes 3.5 years from the first symptoms someone shows of dementia to an actual diagnosis. In people who have early-onset dementiawhich is dementia diagnosed before the age of 65that timeline stretches to 4.1 years.

People who had frontotemporal dementia, which leads to changes in personality, behavior, and language, and is more common in younger people, also faced a longer time to diagnosis.

Why can signs of dementia be hard to miss early on?

Some memory loss is common as you get older, and dementia symptoms are progressivemeaning, they dont usually come on hard and fast, explains Amit Sachdev, MD, MS, the medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University. As a result, it can take a while to piece everything together.

Memory loss in younger people is tough to diagnose for the reasons we just listed, along with the fact that dementia is rare in younger people, says Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. People with memory loss who are not old usually dont think about seeing a neurologist, he says. I suspect the delay in diagnosing young onset dementia is directly related to there being a shortage of neurologists and young people getting their memory loss evaluated by their primary care physicians rather than a neurologist.

How to tell the difference between dementia and normal aging

Frontal temporal dementia, which is more common in younger patients, can lead to changes in personality, mood, and behavior, which can be tricky to pin to dementia, Segil says. But if you have acute onset cognitive changes as a young adult with new changes in personality, mood, and behavior or with changes in your ability to talk or understand, go find a neurologist and ask them to evaluate you for young onset dementia, he says.

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For older adults, there can be a range of symptoms that people might have. Early signs can include being forgetful to the extent that is it impacting daily function, changes in mood and demeanor, feeling lost in familiar places, missing bills, or having trouble managing finances, Sachdev says.

Ultimately, if you or a loved one is having trouble with memory and you dont have answers, Segil says its crucial to see a neurologist for an evaluation. While it may be due to dementia, these symptoms could also be from something else entirely differentand you won't know until you get them checked out.

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Billie Butler, who won a special election to replace Dawn Evans in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, was sworn in by Gov. Kelly Ayotte during Wednesdays Executive Council meeting. (Photo by William Skipworth/New Hampshire Bulletin)

Billie Butler, who won a special election to replace Dawn Evans in the New Hampshire House of Representatives in June, was sworn in to office Wednesday by Gov. Kelly Ayotte at the states Executive Council meeting.

Butler, a Democrat, defeated Republican Ken Hilton to represent the reliably Democratic Strafford County District 12, which includes Somersworth and Rollinsford. Evans, also a Democrat, had moved out of the district and resigned.

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On the campaign trail, Butler, an active member of the Seacoast area theater community, stressed her support for the arts and said she wouldnt take up divisive issues, telling Fosters Daily Democrat she would like to see more people run who do not have divisive agendas, but who really love New Hampshire.

During Wednesdays meeting, Ayotte also called for a special election for state representative in Coos County District 5, which includes Berlin. That seat has sat vacant since June, when Republican Brian Valerino resigned. Valerino, a former sheriff and deputy police chief, was nominated by Ayotte in May to be the Northern New Hampshire Correctional Facilitys warden.

The candidate filing period will be Aug. 18 through Aug. 22, the governor announced. A primary election is scheduled for Sept. 16, with the special election being held Nov. 4. If theres only one candidate from each political party, the primary election will be canceled, and instead, the special election will take place on Sept. 16.
State Rep.Phil Rubin (D-Wake) condemned Michael Whatley for his support of Mark Robinson in the 2024 election. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC Newsline)

North Carolina Democrats spent a Tuesday press conference painting Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley as an extremist, pointing to his support of former Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who lost his gubernatorial bid last year after numerous inflammatory remarks.

At the state Democratic Party headquarters, state Rep. Phil Rubin (D-Wake) called Whatley a Washington big oil lobbyist who has consistently elevated the most extreme forces in this party and in North Carolina, specifically mentioning Robinson.

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Whatley, who has served as the national Republican Party Chair since March 2024, announced last month he will seek the Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Sen. Thom Tillis. His announcement, which came with the support of President Donald Trump, followed on the heels of former Gov. Roy Cooper declaring his candidacy for the seat, setting up what is expected to be one of the most expensive races in the country in next years midterm elections.

Michael Whatley (right), chair of the Republican National Committee, speaks to reporters as North Carolina GOP chairman Jason Simmons looks on at the NC GOP headquarters in Raleigh on Sept. 14, 2024. (Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline)

Rubin referenced a 2022 remark by Whatley, then the state Republican Party chair, in which he called Robinson the greatest lieutenant governor in the United States amid controversy over Robinsons apparent incitement to violence against transgender people and libraries hosting drag queen story hour.

His support for Robinson was steadfast even as Robinson said vile things about women, attacked victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and said, We are called to be led by men, not women, Rubin said. This election is a clear choice between results and resentment, between competence and culture wars.

Shortly after Robinsons victory in the 2024 Republican primary, Whatley endorsed his campaign for governor on social media. North Carolina voters have delivered a resounding message that they want change in the Governors mansion and Mark Robinson is ready to deliver it! he wrote in March. In the months that followed  as Robinsons campaign collapsed into scandal over a CNN investigation into his online presence  Whatley expressed disappointment, but stopped short of disavowing the candidate.

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Those comments are absolutely antithetical to Republican values, and if Mark Robinson is going to continue in this race, then yeah, I do think he is going to have to demonstrate to the voters of North Carolina that those are not his words, his actions, or his values, he told Bloomberg Radio in September.

Former N.C. Gov. Pat McCrory, a Republican, criticized Whatley that same month for enabling Robinsons rise. In an interview with CNN, he said the former state Republican Party chair ignored many known flaws that many of us knew about [Robinson] and just assumed theyd be brushed over, calling Robinson a ticking time bomb for several years now.

World Tabernacle Church Pastor James Gaillard, a state Senate candidate, said at the press conference that Whatley spent years here in North Carolina and also nationally elevating really dangerous people to powerful offices.

One of those dangerous individuals was our former lieutenant governor, Mark Robinson, and I think its important that we connect those dots, Gaillard said. North Carolina doesnt need someone representing us in the U.S. Senate who wants to be rewarded for having given us Mark Robinson.

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Ironically, before Tillis announced his retirement, Robinson had hinted that he might mount a primary challenge against him for the seat. Robinson bowed out in January the same day he announced he was dropping a defamation lawsuit he filed against CNN during his gubernatorial campaign.

Little known by voters

Democrats are eager to define Whatley by his past support for Robinson as he prepares to face an electorate that knows little about him. An August 1 poll by Emerson College found that a plurality of registered voters who were surveyed do not know who he is, with 36% responding that they have never heard of this person. Another 30% said they had no opinion or were unsure how they felt about him.

That survey found Cooper leading Whatley 47% to 41%, with 12% of respondents unsure how they would vote. A popular two-term governor, Cooper boasts much higher name recognition than Whatley, with only 3% of those surveyed not recognizing his name. About 6% did not know who the retiring Tillis was.

Robinson ultimately lost the 2024 governors race by nearly 15% of the vote, the largest margin in more than 40 years. If Democrats successfully tie Robinson to Whatley, it could deliver them their first Senate victory in the state since 2008.

Beyond Robinson, the speakers at Tuesdays press conference attacked Whatley over his support for the Republican big, beautiful bill cutting health care and social services spending, contrasting it with Coopers record of ushering in Medicaid expansion and extending coverage to nearly 670,000 additional North Carolinians.

Jen Kalinowski called for North Carolinians to oppose Whatley after his support for cuts to Medicaid funding, describing her daughters struggle with a rare genetic disorder. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC Newsline)

We cannot afford a senator like Mr. Whatley who called gutting Medicaid for over 650,000 North Carolinians, undermining our rural hospitals, a big win,  Rubin said. We should reject Michael Whatleys radical agenda and send a senator to Washington who will protect health care, lower costs, defend our freedoms, and safeguard our democracy. North Carolina deserves nothing less than Roy Cooper in the United States Senate.

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Jen Kalinowski, the mother of a girl born with a rare genetic disorder known as dup15q who requires constant care through Medicaid, also spoke at the press conference. Kalinowski said losing that care would have life-altering consequences for her family.

She will never be able to gain any independence without her therapies. She certainly will not have the quality of care and support she needs. She will die without control of her seizures, Kalinowski said. We cant elect a U.S. senator who rips away health care from those who need it more. I implore my fellow North Carolinians to please stand up for whats right.
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.

In todays edition, we dive into the implications of Sherrod Browns decision to try for a Senate comeback in Ohio. Plus, Steve Kornacki makes sense of new polling data that shows Democrats ahead on the generic congressional ballot, but deeply unpopular with voters.

Sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every weekday here.

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 Adam Wollner

Democrats score another big Senate recruiting win

Former Sen. Sherrod Brown plans to launch a comeback bid for Senate in Ohio, a major recruiting win for Democrats who need to catch every break they can in their uphill fight for the majority in the chamber.

Brown is viewed by Democrats as one of the few, if not the only, members of their party who could put the seat in the red-trending state in play next year. After serving three terms in the Senate, he lost re-election by 3.5 points last year as Donald Trump carried Ohio by 11 points. And the party in power typically faces headwinds in a midterm election.

If Brown wins the nomination, he would face GOP Sen. Jon Husted, who was appointed to serve the remainder of Vice President JD Vances term earlier this year.

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Battleground recruits: The news comes just weeks after Democrats successfully convinced popular former Gov. Roy Cooper to enter the North Carolina Senate race. Democrats feel even better about the chances Cooper  who has won several statewide contests  has in a state Trump carried more narrowly (3 points) in 2024, particularly with incumbent Republican Thom Tillis declining to seek another term.

The biggest remaining question on the Senate map for Democrats is Maine. Alongside North Carolina, Maine, which Trump lost by 7 points, represents Democrats best pickup opportunity. But longtime GOP Sen. Susan Collins has proven difficult to unseat, winning her last race by 9 points. Democrats are holding out hope that Gov. Janet Mills would take her on, but shes yet to make a final decision.

A tough map: Even if Democrats manage to flip North Carolina and Maine, while holding battlegrounds like Georgia and Michigan, theyd still need to win two other Republican-held seats to take control of the Senate.

Thats where GOP-leaning states like Ohio, Iowa and Texas come into play. Theres a growing Democratic field in the Hawkeye State: Josh Turek, a state lawmaker and former Paralympian with two gold medals, is the latest entrant in the race for GOP Sen. Joni Ernsts seat, as Bridget Bowman reports.

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And the redistricting fight has provided Democratic Senate contenders in Texas with an elevated platform, as Ben Kamisar and Andrew Arenge note. State Rep. James Talarico and former Rep. Beto ORourke, who are both considering bids for Republican Sen. John Cornyns seat, have flooded the zone with digital ads and media appearances in recent weeks. Former Rep. Colin Allred, who is already running, has put redistricting at the center of his message on the trail.

The Republican DNA of these trio of states may ultimately be too much for Democrats to overcome. But if they continue to field strong recruits, they can at least make the races competitive and force Republicans to direct resources there theyd rather put to use elsewhere.

Read more from Bridget Bowman, Ryan Nobles, Julie Tsirkin and Henry J. Gomez on Browns decision 

 More midterm news:

Trump endorsed Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones in the race for governor over state Attorney General Chris Carr.

GOP Rep. Barry Moore is running to replace Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who is running next year for governor.

How Democrats are leading the generic ballot despite their weak image

Analysis by Steve Kornacki

The Democratic Party is profoundly unpopular right now. The share of Americans who view it negatively has reached its highest level in decades and its overall image is notably worse than that of the Republican Party.

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Our own NBC News poll spotted this trend early this year and recent surveys show it persisting, including one from CNBC last week that found that just 22% of Americans have a positive perception of the Democratic Party, compared to 55% negative. For the GOP, it was 36% positive and 46% negative.

And yet, the same CNBC poll also put Democrats ahead by five points on the generic congressional ballot, a key indicator as the 2026 midterm playing field takes shape. It raises the question: How could a party with such a dismal image not be getting blown out?

The answer has to do with how Democrats think about their own party. Unlike Republicans, who as a group hold an overwhelmingly positive view of the GOP, only a plurality of Democrats actually have a favorable view of their own party.

A majority of Democrats are either neutral or hostile to their own party. But, crucially, almost none of them are disillusioned in a way that would lead them to vote against the party next year. In fact, the CNBC poll finds that Democratic voters are slightly more united behind their own party when it comes to the generic ballot than Republicans are.

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This indicates that hostility to President Donald Trump and the GOP remains the central motivating force for Democratic voters, more than enough to override any qualms they have about their own side. To break down the CNBC poll further, only 44% of those who prefer a Democratic-controlled Congress view the party favorably. By contrast, 79% of those who favor Republican control see the GOP positively.

This suggests that the frustrations of Democrats with the Democratic Party are mainly tactical and strategic in nature. As Trumps second terms began, our NBC News poll found that 65% of Democrats wanted their party to dig in and oppose Trump instead of seeking compromise  a reversal from the start of Trumps first term. Many Democratic voters seem to feel their party is simply not fighting Trump with sufficient energy or the right leaders.

 Today's other top stories

Thats all From the Politics Desk for now. Todays newsletter was compiled by Adam Wollner.

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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.

CORRECTION (Aug. 13, 2025, 10:33 a.m. ET): An earlier version of this article mistakenly switched percentages in a chart. Among Republicans, 8% prefer a Democratic-controlled Congress, while 88% prefer a GOP-controlled Congress, not the other way around, according to a new CNBC poll.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
DENVER (KDVR)  Summer heat moves back into Denvers weather for the rest of the workweek.

Weather tonight: Mainly clear

Tuesday night will stay mainly clear and dry. Low temperatures will fall to the 60s, which is right around normal for this time of year.

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up for weather alerts from the Pinpoint Weather team

Weather tomorrow: Sunny, hot

Summer heat returns on Wednesday as high temperatures climb to the mid-90s. Denvers high will reach 96 degrees, which is just shy of the daily record of 99 degrees set in 2007.

Fire weather warnings are set to go into effect from noon to 8 p.m. for dry and breezy conditions that could lead to any wildfires that spark to spread quickly.

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Air quality alerts remain in effect through at least Wednesday for wildfire smoke. Smoke is expected to be exceptionally thick and have the largest air quality impacts through the overnight and early morning hours.

Looking ahead: Weekend storm chances

Thursday will be hot and dry with high temperatures again in record territory. Denver is on track to fall just shy of the daily record, which is 100 degrees set in 1962.

Fire danger will be high for the western half of Colorado on Thursday due to dry and breezy conditions that could lead to rapid wildfire spread. Because of this, fire weather watches are already in effect.

View the latest Weather Alerts in Denver and across Colorado on FOX31

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The pattern starts to shift on Friday and into the weekend. High temperatures will get capped in the lower 90s as morning sunshine gets replaced with a few afternoon showers and storms through Monday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Department of Health issue warning after confirmed case of rare bacteria from Falmouth beach

Health officials in Falmouth have confirmed a rare case of Vibrio vulnificus infection in an older individual who was swimming with an exposed wound at Old Silver Beach.

Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring marine bacterium that can cause serious infections, particularly in individuals with certain health conditions, if it enters the body through an open wound.

The Falmouth Health Department, along with Barnstable County officials, is urging public awareness following the confirmation of this infection, which is uncommon in Massachusetts.

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Cape Cods beaches are an important part of our economy, culture, and community, said Scott McGann, Health Agent for the Town of Falmouth. By taking a few simple precautions, residents and visitors, and particularly anyone who is vulnerable or immunocompromised, can continue to enjoy them safely.

Vibrio vulnificus is most often found in warm coastal and estuarine waters, and infections are more common in southern states along the Gulf Coast. However, recent trends show cases being reported farther north, attributed in part to warming ocean temperatures.

Heat waves and above-average water surface temperatures create favorable conditions for Vibrio bacteria to grow, making May through October generally the peak season for these bacteria, said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD.

The bacterium can cause illness through wound infections when open cuts or punctures are exposed to seawater, or through consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters. In Massachusetts, infections have only been linked to wound exposure.

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Certain groups, including people with liver disease, diabetes, weakened immune systems, and older adults, are at higher risk of infection. Health officials recommend avoiding swimming with open wounds and covering any cuts with waterproof bandages if contact with seawater is unavoidable.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued an alert regarding Vibrio bacteria in coastal waters, advising the public on how to prevent and treat infections. There have been seven confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus in Massachusetts in recent years, with no reported deaths.

For more information regarding Vibrio bacteria, visit the CDCs website.

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.

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LOCKPORT TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  Authorities say they are investigating after a person was found unresponsive near Three Rivers on Tuesday.

The St. Joseph County Sheriffs Office says it was dispatched to South River Road in Lockport Township, where deputies discovered circumstances that led them to investigate if foul play was involved.

The person was taken to the hospital and is in critical condition, according to the sheriffs office, who say that the incident appears to be isolated and that there is no immediate threat to the public.

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Deputies are asking for people with security cameras, ring devices or systems similar to look over their footage from Sunday to Tuesday. Anyone with footage from that time frame is asked to contact central dispatch at 269.467.4195.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Mahoning County Deputy Clerk of Courts Jennifer Ciccone has filed a lawsuit against a former Giant Eagle delivery driver who she says hit her with his car on purpose during a 2023 delivery at her house in Poland.

According to court records, the lawsuit was filed July 23 in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

The complaint names Timothy Lucas, Giant Eagle and four other unnamed individuals as defendants. Ciccone and Daniel Superak are named as plaintiffs.

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The complaint states that Lucas delivered a grocery order to Ciccones Four Seasons Trail home that included alcohol, for which the driver needed to verify identification in order to deliver.

Ciccone said that when she tried to take delivery of the order, she told Lucas that she didnt have her drivers license but went to get her passport to verify her identity and age. The complaint alleges that Lucas became enraged and demanded a drivers license.

Superak tried to de-escalate the situation, according to the complaint, but said that while Ciccone was retrieving her passport, Lucas terminated the delivery and started to head toward his car.

Ciccone followed Lucas to his car and tried to retrieve his license plate number from the rear of the vehicle, which is when she says Lucas hit her, injuring her legs. He then pulled forward and hit her again, knocking her to the ground, injuring her arm and leg and causing trauma to her head, the complaint said.

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Ciccone says she has suffered physical injuries, pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, incurred medical expenses, trauma, embarrassment and lost wages from missing an extended amount of work due to being diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury, the complaint stated.

Ciccone is asking for $75,000 in compensatory damages as well las punitive damages allowed by law, damages for loss of consortium (by Daniel Superak  meaning loss of companionship, emotional support, intimacy and other relationship benefits), attorney and court fees, pre and post judgment interests, and any other relief deemed just, equitable, and proper by this Honorable Court, the complaint stated.

Neither Lucas nor Giant Eagle has filed a response to the complaint yet.

Lucas was indicted in the incident on charges of vehicular assault and failure to stop after an accident. He entered a diversion program as part of a plea deal, according to Ciccones complaint.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani are now likely to meet next week, sources told N12.

Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani were slated to meet in Paris on Wednesday, but the meeting has been postponed in order to provide additional time to prepare for the discussions, according to two sources familiar with the matter speaking to N12 on Tuesday.

Dermer and Shaibani were originally believed to be meeting in order to discuss a humanitarian aid corridor allowing Israel to provide aid to Syria's Druze community, and are now likely to meet next week, the sources added.

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The two officials, along with US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack, previously held talks in Paris on July 24 during the eruption of fighting between Druze and local Bedouin tribes in the city of Sweida in southern Syria, leading to Israel striking Damascus and government forces alongside the Bedouins in an effort to protect the Druze population.

Delegations led by Dermer and Shaibani also met in Baku, Azerbaijan, on July 31 to discuss the security situation in southern Syria, including Sweida.

Dermer, who has led Israels negotiating team in hostage deal talks, intends to retire from politics in the coming months, senior government officials told Israel Hayom on Monday.

Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer attends a plenum session at the assembly hall of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, on January 22, 2025. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)

The officials reported that while Dermer has not set a departure date, he might stay on for a few short-term diplomatic efforts before officially resigning. Its also possible that he could resign sooner.

Washington's position on hostage deal is 'all or nothing'

During Israel's Security Cabinet meeting on Thursday evening, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to occupy Gaza City was approved, Dermer told ministers that Washingtons position on a hostage deal, as conveyed by US special envoy Steve Witkoff to the families of hostages, was "all or nothing," Ynet reported.

Amichai Stein and Reuters contributed to this report.
Lt. Gov. Jay Collins and Gov. Ron DeSantis speaking at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

TAMPA  Noting that the Republican primary race for governor is still more than a year away, Gov. Ron DeSantis hesitated to say anything too definitive about the contest to succeed him on Wednesday.

But he did acknowledge that new Lt. Gov. Jay Collins definitely has the ingredients to be a compelling candidate that can grab attention.

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The governor and his newly minted No. 2 in state government made their second appearance in Tampa in as many days on Wednesday, this time holding a press conference at the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Department, where DeSantis hand-delivered $5,000 recruitment bonus checks to more than three dozen Hillsborough County sheriffs deputies.

After months of speculation, DeSantis on Tuesday formally appointed Collins, a Hillsborough County state senator and retired Army Green Beret, to succeed Jeanette Nunez as lieutenant governor for the remainder of his second term in office.

However, DeSantis and Collins chose not to answer questions Tuesday. During the question-and-answer session Wednesday, the Phoenix asked the governor if, based on his effusive public praise for Collins over the past 24 hours, he could support him if he runs for governor against Southwest Florida U.S. Rep.Byron Donalds, the early front-runner for the nomination.

DeSantis played down the horse race, saying that there is more a year before the GOP primary, a lifetime in politics. But he reiterated that he had confidence Collins could serve as governor and do it well.

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Tuesday afternoon, DeSantis posted a campaign-style video of Collins produced by a political committee chaired by the new lieutenant governor. During Wednesdays press conference, the governor said people who previously didnt know anything about Collins until the previous day or saw the video were really blown away by his story.

I think theres a lot of people who are like, Man, think this is the type of guy that we need, DeSantis said.

We put out a video to just kind of introduce him to people, and people were like, Man, thats our guy. So, he definitely has the ingredients of what it would take to be a compelling candidate that can grab attention, but I know that hes really interested in moving the ball forward on all of these policies.

For political observers, its been evident for months that DeSantis is interested in backing another Republican to challenge Donalds, who has already been endorsed by Donald Trump and has raised more than $22 million so far for his 2026 gubernatorial campaign.

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It was previously believed that alternative candidate could be First Lady Casey DeSantis, who attended Tuesdays press conference introducing Collins but did not speak publicly.

What about Casey DeSantis?

A reporter asked the governor if his selection of Collins for lieutenant governor and enthusiastic public support for him means Casey DeSantis is no longer considering a candidacy for governor. DeSantis insisted that any focus on the First Lady for the race was coming from outside forces, and not from her.

I think from the beginning until now its always been a lot of people are like, Can you get her to do it? Can you get her to do it? kind of deal. She just wants the state to do well, he said.

She was really excited and inspired with what we saw yesterday, when Jay was announced, so shes going to be serving, continuing to help make a difference one way or another, he said. The thought around her has been more exterior with people telling her that she has to do all of those things.

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AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  Desperate parents begged law enforcement officers to storm an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, in the frantic minutes after a gunman opened fire in one of the deadliest classroom attacks in U.S. history, police body camera video released Tuesday shows.

Whose class is he in? one parent can be heard asking. Another comes up and yells, Come on man, my daughter is in there!

The heartbreaking videos show the agonizingly slow law enforcement response along with confusion and delays. Authorities failed to confront 18-year-old gunman Salvador Ramos for more than an hour after the attack at Robb Elementary School began on May 24, 2022. Nineteen students and two teachers were killed.

Related: British Host Not Welcome Party For JD Vance With Memes Mocking His Chubby Face

The records released Tuesday are the final batch of documents that local authorities withheld during a yearslong legal battle over public access. Family members of the victims, including Jesse Rizo, the uncle of 9-year-old victim Jackie Cazares, were among those pushing for the records to be released.

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When a shooter comes in and destroys the community and causes a ripple effect, this is the reality. And you cannot shy away from it, said Rizo, who was elected to the school board after the shooting.

He said had been talking to family members and not all of them felt they would be able to watch the videos and read the documents immediately.

For those that are ready for it, I hope that it provides some kind of healing, he said.

Related: Beto O'Rourke Breaks Down Why Ted Cruz Is A Curse Upon The People Of Texas

The documents disclosed that deputies visited the gunmans home three months before the shooting after his mother said she was scared of him, while nearly six hours of bodycam videos revealed missteps and frustration throughout the attack and its aftermath.

Frightened Parents Urge Officers To Act

Several videos show officers from multiple departments inside the school hallway and standing outside, some suggesting throwing gas in the window or searching for a key to the locked classroom. But its unclear who is in charge.

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Within minutes, parents making their way to a fence near the school yell at officers to do something.

One parent angrily says, Either you go in or Im going in bro, adding a few seconds later, My kids are in there, bro. ... Please!

In one video, an officer involved in the initial response can be heard saying, We cant see him at all before adding, We were at the front and he started shooting.

The officer wearing the bodycam asks: Hes in a classroom right? Another officer responds: With kids.

Something needs to be done ASAP, a voice can be heard saying almost an hour before anyone charged into the classroom.

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Outside, a woman who says shes a relative of the gunman sobs, telling police to take him out.

Deputies Met Uvalde Gunman Months Earlier

Documents released Monday by the school district offer the most detailed look yet at the gunman whose downward spiral began in middle school with a series of suspensions and warnings for harassment and bullying. He dropped out of school just months before the shooting.

Related: Jeannine Pirro Wants To Make An Example Of A Man Who Threw A Sandwich At An Officer

Sheriffs deputies went to the gunmans home on two consecutive nights before the attack because he was arguing with his mother over Wi-Fi and broken video game equipment after she turned off the internet, according to county records released Tuesday.

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Adriana Reyes said her son never hit her but told deputies she was scared of him and needed help, a report said. Ramos grandmother picked him up one night, and deputies drove him there the next night.

Media organizations, including The Associated Press, sued the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District and Uvalde County in 2022 for the release of their records. A Texas appeals court in July upheld a lower courts ruling that the records must be made public.

Last year, city officials in Uvalde released body camera footage and recordings of 911 calls.

Minutes Ticked By As Officers Waited

Nearly 400 officers waited more than 70 minutes before confronting the gunman in a classroom filled with dead and wounded children and teachers. A Department of Justice review later cited cascading failures in the handling of the massacre while another report by Texas lawmakers faulted law enforcement at every level with failing to prioritize saving innocent lives over their own safety.

Related: Trump Names Strait, Stallone And Kiss For Kennedy Center Honors And Says He'll Host The Awards Show

Uvalde schools police chief Pete Arredondo and Adrian Gonzales, another former school district officer, are the only two officers who face criminal charges for their actions that day. They both have pleaded not guilty to child endangerment and abandonment and are scheduled for trial later this year.

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At one point, Arredondo is seen on body camera sending another officer to get a master key. Later investigations found no evidence the classroom door was locked.

Early on, he tells officers crouched near him that they are going to clear all the rooms before breaching the classroom because time is on our side right now.

He says they dont know if there are students inside but, were gonna save the lives of the other ones.

Theres also concern that the gunman might be holding a child as a human shield or that someone might be caught in crossfire.

Officers can be seen tucked in recesses in the hallway as one outside the building says: They are taking him out. Stand by.

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But the minutes tick past.

We are waiting, an officer outside says.

A voice can be heard saying over a loudspeaker: Please put your firearm down. We dont want anyone else hurt.

Finally, officers rush inside the classroom and three shots ring out.

One officer walks out of the classroom, anguish on his face as medical workers move into the hallway.

I think there are a lot left, one person says. Another officer walks out of the classroom, shaking his head.

___

The story has been corrected to show deputies went to the gunmans house on two consecutive nights, not three.

___

Seewer reported from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press reporters Heather Hollingsworth in Kansas City, Missouri; Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia; Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas; Claudia Lauer in Philadelphia; and Ed White in Detroit contributed.

More on U.S. News

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Read the original on HuffPost
The Brief

Reports made to the Department of Child Safety before a 10-year-old girl's death have emerged, leading to murder charges against her father and his girlfriend.

The girl's school, Empower College Prep, provided investigators with extensive files documenting multiple contacts between the family and child welfare agencies.

PHOENIX - New details have emerged about the many reports made to the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) leading up to the death of a 10-year-old girl.

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Her father and his girlfriend are accused of first-degree murder.

What we know

Rebekah Baptiste was enrolled at Empower College Prep in Phoenix at the time of her death, even though the family had recently moved to a remote area of Apache County.

Investigators from the Apache County Sheriff's Office spent more than four hours on Aug. 12 at the school, interviewing teachers, social workers and nurses.

According to a doctor at Phoenix Children's Hospital and a 140-page report, Rebekah was found covered in bruises. The doctor called her death "torture."

The Apache County Sheriff's Office says Rebekah's father, Richard Baptiste, and his girlfriend, Anicia Woods, are responsible for her death.

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RELATED: Reports of abuse reportedly made to DCS years before Arizona girl's death

Richard Baptiste, and his girlfriend, Anicia Woods

Dig deeper

Natalina Mariscal, the director of student social services at Empower College Prep, said the school's file on Rebekah and her siblings is "hefty."

"There's a lot of reports from DCS and investigators," Mariscal said. "There's a lot of visits from outside agencies to support their overall wellness and their safety."

School visitation records show that DCS and police spoke with the Baptiste children several times.

"It's extraordinarily unjust," said Brian Holman, founder and executive director of Empower College Prep. "And while Rebekah was alive, her voice did not result in the protection that she needed. And so we're wanting to amplify that voice and make sure that there's justice."

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"There's great rage, there's anger, there's sadness, there's grief," Mariscal said. "It's definitely felt in every corner of the campus that she is gone."

Rebekah spent three years at Empower College Prep before her death. Now a magenta memorial, Rebekah's favorite color, sits in the administration office.

Mariscal created an extensive documentation process for teachers to fill out a form each time they call a DCS number, making sure to note the result of the call.

"Kiddos had shared that they didn't feel safe going home," Mariscal said. "And that wasn't just around the holidays, it was just like a random Tuesday."

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School officials said they saw a pattern of the parents trying to withdraw the students from various services and programs at the school, "almost trying to isolate them."

"This is a remarkable young lady who, amidst all of her suffering, cared for her little brothers," Holman said. "That she was probably the most caring, mother, caring mother figure."

The school feels Rebekah's voice was not heard when she was alive, so they have made it their mission to amplify it. They planted a tree in her honor to remember the life she had ahead of her.

What's next

A celebration of life will be held for Rebekah at the Phoenix school on Thursday, Aug. 13.

Richard Baptiste and Anicia Woods are scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 4.
From movie and television star to "Make America Healthy Again."

The Wall Street Journal profiled Floridian actress Cheryl Hines on Aug. 11 about her marriage to husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and her stance regarding his controversial opinions.

"She used to be Larry David's TV wife. Now she's a political spouse to one of the most polarizing Trump officials of them all," the outlet's tagline reads.

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President Donald Trump picked her husband, 71, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services and encouraged the politician in his MAHA" campaign. Since then, both Hines and Kennedy have been involved in various controversies, including one regarding his alleged affair with a journalist during his presidential campaign.

Who is Cheryl Hines? Where in Florida is Hines from?

Cheryl Hines, 59, is an actress and comedian, most known for portraying Larry David's wife Cheryl on HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm." Winning two Primetime Emmy nominations for the role, she has also starred in films like "Herbie: Fully Loaded" (2005), "Cake" (2005), "RV" (2006), and "A Bad Moms Christmas" (2017).

Hines was born in Miami Beach, but in a 2007 interview with the Orlando Sentinel, she shared she grew up in Tallahassee.

In Florida's capital city, she first explored her acting chops in the choral and drama departments at Leon High School and Young Actors Theatre. After graduating, she pursued a degree in arts from the University of Central Florida in Orlando

When did Cheryl Hines and RFK Jr. get married?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is sworn in as Health and Human Services secretary by Supreme Court Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch on Feb. 13 in the Oval Office. RFK's wife, Cheryl Hines, is at his side.

Hines married Kennedy Jr. in August 2014, a second marriage for her and a third for him.

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She credits her on-screen husband with introducing the pair, saying David introduced her to Kennedy in 2006 at a ski weekend fundraiser for the Waterkeeper Alliance. However, the pair didn't reconnect and form a romantic relationship until 2010.

Did RFK Jr. have an affair with journalist Olivia Nuzzi?

Back in September, Status journalist and former CNN reporter Oliver Darcy broke the news that Kennedy and ex-New York Magazine correspondent Olivia Nuzzi had an alleged sexting affair.

"Recently, our Washington Correspondent Olivia Nuzzi acknowledged to the magazines editors that she had engaged in a personal relationship with a former subject relevant to the 2024 campaign while she was reporting on the campaign, a violation of the magazines standards around conflicts of interest and disclosures," a spokesperson for New York magazine told Status.

"Had the magazine been aware of this relationship, she would not have continued to cover the presidential campaign. An internal review of her published work has found no inaccuracies nor evidence of bias. She is currently on leave from the magazine, and the magazine is conducting a more thorough third-party review. We regret this violation of our readers trust."

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Nuzzi released a statement on the matter, saying, The relationship was never physical but should have been disclosed to prevent the appearance of a conflict." Kennedy's representation claimed he only met her once, "which yielded a hit piece.

What did Cheryl Hines say about rumored separation from RFK?

Neither Hines nor Kennedy directly addressed the alleged affair between him and Nuzzi in the WSJ interview. Instead, Hines tiptoed around the rumors with a short statement.

I dont think theres any point to going through every rumor and headline to try to defend or explain it, the actress told the outlet. Bobby and I talk about everything, so thats how we move through everything, and were really good friends, and we trust each other.

She added that her upcoming memoir will help paint their relationship in a "better light."

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One would deduce that we love each other and are still married and whatever weve been through is behind us, she said.

Kennedy also commented on his wife being pulled into various controversies, saying it is impossible to control.

There is no end, and if you get caught into responding to it then it drags you into low vibrations, and the trick is to try to stay in the high vibrations, he said.

What else did Cheryl Hines say to WSJ? Actress touches on politics, vaccines

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shows his commission certificate with his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, and President Trump, on the day Kennedy is sworn in as secretary of Health and Human Service in Washington, D.C., February 13, 2025. REUTERS/Nathan Howard

Instead of addressing separation rumors, Hines talked about her husband's journey from running for president as an independent to joining Trump's cabinet. She shared that she doesn't understand why it angers people so much.

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At first, youre thinking, 'Wow. Why are they so angry or disappointed?' she shared. Some people cant even, I dont know, they cant even talk about it. Its really rather strange, actually.

She also said she is on board with his crusade to "Make America Healthy Again" and is even drinking raw milk, despite doctors' warning against it. She showed support for Kennedy's controversial skepticism of vaccines.

Is science ever settled?" Hines said. "Everythings changing. Technology changes. Everything changes."

Cheryl Hines releasing a memoir. Here's when it comes out

Earlier this month, Hines announced she was releasing her first memoir titled "Unscripted." It comes out on Nov. 11.

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"Ill be sharing stories about the twists and turns Ive experienced through the years. Its been a wild ride," the actress shared on Instagram.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Cheryl Hines touches on husband RFK Jr.'s alleged affair last year
Did you see someone shoot at another car on State Route 18 last week? Washington State Patrol (WSP) would like to talk to you.

The department says on August 6, around 9:30 p.m., someone driving a black or silver Honda pulled up to a person driving a silver Toyota Corolla and fired a single shot at them.

No one was hurt, but the driver called 911 and explained what happened.

They didnt get a good look at the person, so WSP says theres no suspect description.

If you were in the area and saw what happened, reach out to Detective Todd Early at Todd.Early@wsp.wa.gov.
Warning: Some viewers may find the content of this report upsetting. Discretion is advised.

ALLEGAN, Mich. (WOOD)  She was locked up, almost naked, beaten, screamed at, strangled, sexually assaulted. This went on for days.

Rachel Finkel is a partially blind woman who was able to escape before it was too late. Shes a victim of domestic violence; a crime thought to be underreported.

Many women fear no one will believe them. But in this case, there was powerful evidence to back up her story. Finkel jumped out of a broken window and ran down the street. She ended up at Aric Towns home.

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Advocates explain risk of escaping domestic violence

Instantly grabbed my kids, didnt know what was going on, remembered Town.

Aric Town says neighbor Rachel Finkel ran to his house for help after escaping domestic violence.

Town said Finkel made her way in yelling.

I need help, I need help, Ive been held hostage, Ive been beaten, Ive been sexually assaulted, I need help. Im going to get a little emotional. It was very scary in that moment, Town said.

Help soon arrived. Detective Janel Hagerty was called in to listen to Finkels story.

Domestic violence prevention advocate: Reach out

You could see the wheels turning in her head, just reeling with everything she had gone through, said Hagerty.

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Finkel had recorded audio on her phone of the abuse. She wrote in her journal about what happened, and her then-boyfriend Bryan Chadderdon had cameras inside his home.

An evidence photo released by the Allegan County Sheriffs Office shows cameras that authorities say Bryan Chadderdon used to control Rachel Finkel.

An evidence photo released by the Allegan County Sheriffs Office shows cameras that authorities say Bryan Chadderdon used to control Rachel Finkel.

But to have the video with it, I mean he used that video to control her, to make sure that he knew where she was in the house when he was not home. And to find that and to realize that we had that and we were able to sync the audio from her phone, Hagerty said.

In the audio, you can hear how violent it got at times.

An evidence photo provided by the Allegan County Sheriffs Office shows Rachel Finkel, who was abused by her then-boyfriend Bryan Chadderdon. (Aug. 12, 2025)

News 8 spoke with Rachel over the phone. Shes in prison for drugs; something shes struggled with. Finkel said the abuse went on and off for years. She left and moved back in late 2022. This time, it got bad.

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You wouldnt let her wear clothing, you locked her from in the house from the outside with a padlock, said Allegan County Judge Margaret Baker.

He had a chair just in the kitchen area, he would berate her, constantly call out her name. He would get into her face. He would scream in her face, in her ear. It would appear he was spitting on her. He would backhand her, punch her, pick her up by the hair and throw her. At one point he had taken a firearm and pointed it at her head and made her physically reach up and touch the barrel of the gun, so she knew that the gun was there, said Hagerty.

Experts: What domestic violence can look like

Finkels mom, Jeanne Strathman, described it all as total devastation.

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A lot of guilt. Why wasnt I there to save her, this is my daughter, she said.

She was in total shock during the trial while hearing and seeing everything that happened to her daughter.

Oh my God, why didnt you tell me? said Strathman.

In late January, Chadderdon was sentenced to between 24 and 40 years in prison.

You can be the nicest person in the planet because you dont need to use power and control over them, you want power and control over your significant other. I dont know how anyone, family, friend could watch that video and not see that what you did was unbelievable, totally unbelievable, said Judge Baker.

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I have forgiven Bryan, Finkel said at sentencing. I have forgiven you Bryan. I just want this to be over with. I want you to be out of my life so I dont have to be worried or scared about anything anymore.

Bryan Chadderdon listens to a victim impact statement from Rachel Finkel during his sentencing.

In early June, News 8 went to the Womens Huron Valley Correctional Facility in Ypsilanti to see Finkel in person. The crew wasnt allowed to bring a camera in. Finkel appeared to be doing well and is looking forward to getting out in a few months. She said she wants to continue the healing process so she can help other women.

To support other women, thats all I want to do is give back to my community, said Finkel.

Finkels mom, who lives in northern Michigan, said she has regrets.

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Advocates say womans death shows stark reality of domestic abuse

I wish I wouldve gone down there and just checked on her to see what was going on, said Jeanne Strathman.

Her message for other families: Alarms can be set off. If you notice something different, try to find an answer. Stay in touch with your loved one so you can watch for differences.

Its a crime that some people say they will never forget.

I think about it every time I walk by that house, said Town.

The Otsego-area home where authorities say Bryan Chadderdon abused Rachel Finkel.

That video will forever be seared into my brain of you repeatedly kicking, hitting, yelling, screaming, demeaning Rachel Finkel, hitting her with her mobility, repeatedly, dragging her by the hair, engaging in sexual assault, said Judge Baker.

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Its a win, not for me, but for Rachel. It was a win for Rachel. It just validates her story, Detective Hagerty said.

She hopes Rachel will continue the path of healing.

There is help out there, they just have to be guided in a direction to find it, to have the bravery to follow through with it, she said.

You tried to destroy me, and you know you didnt. You didnt break my will, you didnt break my will, said Finkel.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached anytime at 1.800.799.7233. Aday says organizations like Safe Haven work hard to support survivors and give them ownership of their lives.

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News 8 spoke with three domestic violence advocates about the cycle of abuse and why it can be so hard to leave. You can watch that on WOOD TV+.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Just two weeks ago, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made an extraordinary announcement: Pollution from global warming would no longer be considered a threat to public health.

Known as the endangerment finding, the Obama-era policy empowered federal officials to regulate pollution caused by vehicles and power plants. It also led to electric vehicle subsidies that boosted the nascent EV industry, including companies like Tesla. But the 15-year-old policy is no more, the EPA announced on July 29.

Today, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin once again made it clear that hes on a mission to end the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. In a speech at the Iowa State Fair, Zeldin told automakers to do away with certain vehicle standards for reducing pollution.

The 6.6L GM Duramax V8 diesel fills every square inch of the engine bay under the hood of GMs HD trucks; (photo/Bruce Smith)

EPA Rolls Back Diesel Emissions Regulation

In this case, Zeldin wants them to stop installing software that causes many vehicles (especially trucks) to lose power when they have low levels of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). This is referred to as limp mode.

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The fluid and its systems, which reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel exhausts, will still technically be required. But, by removing the requirement that a vehicle go into limp mode without the fluid, Zeldin removed a key method of enforcing that rule. He called the change a win for everyday drivers and those working in agriculture.

Change Praised by the Agriculture Industry

A tractor during the harvest; (photo/Shutterstock)

At the Iowa State Fair, Zeldin found many sympathetic ears for the policy change. Agricultural workers have long voiced frustration with modern diesel emissions systems. By forcing vehicle makers to install a fail-safe that causes vehicles to lose power without DEF, many of them experience a loss of productivity.

Indeed, Zeldin claimed the change will immediately improve productivity among farmers. If the vehicle detects low levels of DEF (the emissions-reducing fluid), it can still be operated for up to 36 hours without issue. After that, the vehicle will gradually begin to slow down in torque.

The move was immediately applauded by those working in the agricultural sector.

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This is a positive step and maybe a formative step toward saying that having these emission standards on farm or off-road equipment is not critically necessary, Ben Reinsche, owner of Blue Diamond Farming Company in Jesup, Iowa, told AgWeb. There are so many other things farmers can do that are planet positive, like using conservation and sustainability practices.

Limited Limp Mode

2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate; (photo/GMC)

Even if some automakers wanted to maintain limp mode for the sake of reducing emissions, they wont be allowed to continue doing it. Starting in model year 2027, diesel trucks cant have a limp mode that happens immediately when they run out of DEF. Systems have to, at a minimum, provide 4,200 miles or 80 hours of run time before reducing power.

That means most drivers will likely use this new program to run their diesel vehicles without DEF for some time. This, of course, will save them a few dollars  while heavily increasing airborne pollution.

This is likely to be especially true for many commercial truck drivers, who could potentially cut their costs quite a bit. Not to mention the fact that it will likely remove the hefty fines for removing the DEF systems that many companies  commercial and consumer  have faced, as The Drive has reported.

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Given the continued increase of natural disasters linked to climate change, conservationists will be less pleased about the rule change. After all, the primary mission of the EPA, as stated on its own website, is to ensure that Americans have clean air, land, and water.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Three years after Albuquerque closed a homeless camp at Coronado Park, the states highest court is now weighing whether the city was wrong for booting people out.

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Eight people who were thrown out of Coronado Park sued the city, claiming the move violated their constitutional rights. But the city disagrees, and the Bernalillo County District Attorneys Office is supporting their push to get the lawsuit thrown out.

We just hope that, for the sake of public safety, that our state supreme court makes the right decision, said John Kloss, Deputy District Attorney.

New Mexicos Supreme Court is facing a big decision. Its one that could affect how Albuquerque treats its public spaces after a group of homeless people were kicked out of Coronado Park. And the plaintiffs had claimed that the citys enforcement of laws that we have that regulate the use of public space violate their constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment, said Kloss.

Despite a U.S. Supreme Court ruling giving cities more power to remove homeless camps, New Mexicos Supreme Court is expected to review a lawsuit filed in state court. The city is hoping the states five justices will throw the case out, and the District Attorneys Office is joining their side. In a legal brief, D.A. Sam Bregman said a ruling against the city would, in part, worsen public safety concerns.

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So sidewalks, roadways, parks, those all become kind of contested spaces under the regime that is telegraphed under the District Courts ruling in this case, said Kloss.

Meanwhile, attorneys for the homeless group suing the city said Albuquerques inability to address an affordable housing shortage is part of the problem. And when this unaffordable housing problem isnt dealt with by our city leaders, more and more people are pushed out onto the streets to exist because they cant afford to live someplace indoors, said Kristin Love, Senior Civil Liberties Attorney, ACLU of New Mexico.

Theyre hoping the states highest court will hear them out. For an opportunity for the district court to hear evidence and for the trial court to have a record and then to go through the normal process of appellate review that every case goes through, said Love.

The case is expected to be heard by the New Mexico Supreme Court next year.

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The City of Albuquerque sent KRQE News 13 the following statement:

We welcome the District Attorneys support as we work to keep public spaces safe and open for everyone while making sure people experiencing homelessness have access to shelter, services, and housing. This case is about preserving the tools we need to respond quickly to unsafe conditions, protect our community, and help people transition off the streets with dignity.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Aug. 12A Dixon man faces several drug and weapons charges after an early-morning crash Sunday in Amboy.

Amont J. Vinson, 20, was charged after Lee County sheriff's deputies were called at 5:47 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, to a single-vehicle crash on Route 52 near Water Street in Amboy, according to a Lee County Sheriff's Office news release.

According to the release, deputies smelled cannabis as well as the odor of alcohol on the driver, who they identified as Vinson, while they were investigating the crash. Deputies then searched the vehicle, where cannabis, controlled substances and a firearm were found, according to the release.

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According to court documents, Vinson was formally charged Monday, Aug. 11, with:

* armed violence, a Class X felony

* possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony

* aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, a Class 4 felony

* unlawful possession of cannabis (30 to 100 grams), a Class A misdemeanor

* possession of a firearm and ammunition without a requisite firearm owner's identification card, a Class A misdemeanor

* driving under the influence of intoxicating compounds, a Class A misdemeanor

* driving while driver's license is suspended, a Class A misdemeanor

* operating an uninsured motor vehicle, a petty offense

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* failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, a petty offense

In accordance with the Illinois SAFE-T Act, Vinson was released from custody with pretrial provisions, according to the release.

His next court appearance is a preliminary hearing at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 20.
Archaeologists have discovered evidence of people of sub-Saharan African descent living in Britain more than 1,300 years ago.

It's not only the earliest evidence in Britain of people with recent Black African ancestry  it is also the earliest genetic evidence anywhere in Europe.

Because only a tiny percentage (probably less than 1 per cent) of Roman and early medieval British and continental European skeletons have been DNA-tested, it is conceivable that there were dozens of sub-Saharan African descendants living in Anglo-Saxon England.

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The newly discovered evidence of Black Africans' descendants living in early Anglo-Saxon era Britain comes from DNA tests (carried out as part of a mainly Anglo-German study) on two 7th century children buried in two separate early medieval cemeteries  one in Kent, the other in Dorset.

Although the two individuals do not appear to have been related to each other, both had a Black African grandparent and both of those grandparents came from what is now southern Nigeria.

Although there is no genetic indication of the sex of either the Kent or the Dorset child's Nigerian grandparents, some more general historical information, from other totally separate research by other scholars, does suggest that both Nigerians are, on balance of probabilities, likely to have been female.

Excavation at the post-Roman cemetery at Worth Matravers cemetery in Dorset (Lilian Ladle)

The Anglo-German study (published on Wednesday in the UK archaeological journal Antiquity) makes it clear that It's not known for sure how the two Nigerians crossed the Sahara and ended up in late 6th century Europe.

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However, evidence from other investigations into African trade by other academics suggest that one of the options  and perhaps the most likely  is that they were trafficked as slaves.

Although the transatlantic slave trade was more than 1,000 years later and although the Arab slave trade was 100 years in the future, there was nevertheless a significant Saharan slave trade carried out by at least two powerful pre-Arab Sahara region states (the Garamantes of southern Libya, and probably also the Gaetuli of southern Morocco).

Surveys of Sahara region rock art (including images of chariots and armed horsemen) have, over recent years, been advancing archaeologists' appreciation of the ultra-mobile armed nature of warriors and potential slave-raiders associated with such Saharan states.

It is therefore likely that slave traders and raiders from those or similar states were the trans-Saharan slave traffickers involved in bringing slaves from West Africa to Europe.

Ancient and early medieval Saharan states were involved in slave-raiding and slave-trading. Raiding parties almost certainly involved armed horsemen and possibly also charioteers. This image from southern Libya shows a Garamantian charioteer (Trust for African Rock Art / David Coulson)

Of great potential significance is the fact that the Kent child (the granddaughter of a Nigerian) was buried in an almost certainly royal-connected cemetery, located just 900 metres south of a royal palace of the Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent.

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She was buried with a knife, a spoon, a bone comb and a fine, wheel-turned decorated pot, similar to ceramics imported from France. Several of these grave goods suggest that she was from a socially relatively elite family.

What's more, her aunt, one of her grandmothers and one of her great-grandfathers were also buried in that same royal cemetery. All these factors suggest that the family was part of, or somehow associated with, the early medieval Kingdom of Kent's ruling elite.

The Kent child's Nigerian grandparent (whose burial location is as yet unknown) was probably trafficked from Nigeria to Europe in or around the late 6th century.

The Kingdom of Kent was strongly influenced by France. Indeed, it may, for a time, have been politically subject to France. The presence of a Nigerian-ancestry individual in Anglo-Saxon Kent is therefore very likely a direct consequence of French influence over Kent.

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Very significantly, there was a partly politically motivated tradition in 6th century France in which French royals married their slaves.

Historical evidence shows that early medieval French kings sometimes married their slaves. Balthild (c. 626  30 January 680), queen consort of Neustria and Burgundy by marriage to King Clovis II, may have started her life as a slave (Wikimedia Commons)

The practice is believed to have been motivated by a fear of acquiring powerful parents-in-law and brothers-in-law who might want to acquire power in or over their wealth and land. Marrying enslaved people had no such downsides  and marrying enslaved people from far away would have lent royal and royal-associated elites a sense of global cosmopolitan identity, without any risks of greedy dynastic interference, influence and competition.

The Kent child (and her recent ancestors' possible partly French cultural or other connections) is also significant because it may have formed an unexpected part of the story of Anglo-Saxon England's conversion to Christianity.

It is likely that the child  a young girl aged just 12  was born in the first half of the 7th century (in the period following the 597AD conversion of the Kingdom of Kent to Christianity).

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That conversion, one of the most important events in English history, took place courtesy of pro-papal French royalty and diplomats. It marked the beginning of the conversion of Anglo-Saxon England to the Christian religion.

The child's mother or father (or indeed both) may therefore have been be part of the influx of royals and other members of the French elite who came to England in the run-up to the conversion or immediately following it.

The other child with partly Nigerian ancestry, the one buried in Dorset, died aged around 16 in around the 630s.

The Nigerian-ancestry girl's skeleton at Updown, Kent (Supplied)

The cause of death is not yet known for either of them. However, plague had arrived in Britain in the mid-6th century and the consequent plague pandemic persisted in Europe and almost certainly in Britain for well over 100 years. It is therefore conceivable that both children had succumbed to that disease.

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The child burials were in early medieval cemeteries located at Updown (near Eastry) in the extreme east of Kent, and at Worth Matravers, near Swanage, Dorset.

The Kent child's DNA was particularly well-preserved and it was revealed that she almost certainly had brown eyes, dark hair and a Mediterranean or North African complexion, which would have contrasted with the very pale skin colour, blue eyes and often blonde hair of most early Anglo-Saxons, especially members of the royal-associated elites, who mainly had ancestry in northern Germany and Denmark.

The crucial DNA tests were carried at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany, and at the University of Huddersfield.

It is significant that it is human DNA  and therefore the movement of people, and not just objects  that is now starting to reveal the nature of long-distance interaction to the continent, Byzantium and sub-Saharan Africa, said the paper's lead author, Professor Duncan Sayer of the University of Lancashire.

What is fascinating about these two individuals is that this international connection is found in both the east and west of Britain. Updown is right in the centre of the early Anglo-Saxon cultural zone and Worth Matravers, by contrast, is just outside its periphery in the sub-Roman west.
The Democratic National Committee will consider two Gaza-related resolutions at its meeting this month, including one that asks the party to impose an arms embargo on Israel.

The draft resolutions, part of a packet shared with DNC members and seen by Semafor, also contain language that would recommend enforceable steps to stop super PACs from interfering in the partys 2028 presidential primary, a position shared by chair Ken Martin and progressives like Sen. Bernie Sanders.

But the twin Gaza resolutions have substantial differences. One urges a ceasefire and a return of hostages held by Hamas; the other asks the party to commit to suspension of military aid to Israel and its elected leaders to support establishing a Palestinian state.

That resolution would be a gift to Republicans and would embolden Israels adversaries, Democratic Majority for Israel president Brian Romick told Semafor.
A dam in Merton in Waukesha County indicates a "high potential for failure" following historic floods in the Milwaukee area.

The Hartland Police Department said in a Facebook post Aug. 12 that an emergency action plan has been activated for the Merton Millpond Dam on Bark River.

A dam in Merton has reached a critical level but the DNR said it will be reinforced.

Police said the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is confident they are able to reinforce the dam, but residents and businesses along the river should be aware of the potential rise in water levels.

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The department said at 3 p.m. the dam has not been breached and engineers and local authorities will continue to assess the damage.

According to the National Inventory of Dams, the Merton dam was constructed in 1840 and was last inspected in 2021, when it was found to be in fair condition. It is owned by the village of Merton.

The dam is classified as a high-hazard dam, which means it could result in loss of life and significant property damage if it fails.

Wisconsin has recorded the second-most dam failures of any state since 2000, trailing only South Carolina, the Wisconsin Policy Forum found in a report last year.

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Of 34 dams that failed in Wisconsin between 2000 and 2023, 28 have happened since 2018, and more than half have happened since 2020, the report found. Communities that own dams are facing twin threats of infrastructure aging past its expected lifespan and more frequent and intense rainfall events, like the one in southeastern Wisconsin last weekend, driven by climate change. The average age of a dam in the U.S. is more than 60 years old.

This story was updated to add new information.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: DNR to reinforce Waukesha County dam with 'high potential for failure'
A Department of Corrections (DOC) prisoner who escaped custody at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Tuesday evening has been located and taken back into custody.

John Nino, 20, was arrested in Tacoma around 4 p.m. on Wednesday. The DOC said he was a passenger in a car that investigators spotted in King County and then followed to Tacoma.

He was arrested without incident.

Nino was on the fourth floor with two DOC officers when he escaped just before 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Port of Seattle officials say he ran to the light rail, then across the pedestrian bridge on the east side of the station, down toward International Boulevard.

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According to the DOC, Nino was on community supervision for second-degree robbery. A warrant was issued for him in June after he failed to report for meetings with his community corrections officer.

He was arrested several days ago in New Mexico and was being returned to DOC custody in Washington when he escaped, the DOC said.
GRUNDY COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  After a recent rattlesnake bite death, officials say, although rare, it is still important to be vigilant on hikes.

A man died Friday after being bitten by a rattlesnake while visiting Savage Gulf State Park in Grundy County, according to Grundy County Emergency Management.

Park rangers said they received a distress call Friday afternoon and found the man suffering from a venomous snake bite. Emergency crews reportedly performed CPR before he was taken to a hospital, where he later died.

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RELATED: Hiker dies after snake bite in Savage Gulf State Park

Rattlesnake bites are rare in Tennessee; about 50 are reported statewide each year, but doctors said they can be dangerous.

In certain people, the venom can even have deadly effects, where you would have an allergic reaction to the venom, or it can get into the bloodstream much faster and cause much more severe symptoms, said Dr. Joshua Justice, medical director at TriStar Skyline Medical Center.

Justice said the first step in treatment is preventing swelling. If a venomous snake is suspected, antivenom is administered  sometimes in multiple doses.

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Kentucky is home to 33 kinds of snakes; which ones are venomous?

In severe cases, patients may be transferred to a higher-level facility for ongoing observation and care from specialists, such as toxicologists or surgeons.

Experts stress that hikers should know how to react if they encounter a snake.

The best thing to do is try to remain still, calm, back away  dont try to approach the snake, said Matthew Griffith, Grundy Countys emergency management director.

Safety tips for hikers include carrying a walking stick to help move a snake away from the trail and being alert when sitting near benches or rocks.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
For years now, AI cancer detection has been touted as being as good as or better than doctors  but given the results of a recent trial, for some doctors, AI seems to have greatly hampered their abilities instead.

In a new study published in the journal The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology, researchers led by the Medical University of Silesia in Poland found, upon surveying 19 doctors from four endoscopy practices between September 2021 and March 2022, that the clinicians working there seem to have gotten lazier and worse at their jobs as a result of the technology's assistance.

Researchers warned of a "deskilling" effect after noticing a 20 percent relative drop in the detection rate of adenomas, or pre-cancerous growths in the colon, after an AI was introduced at the centers at the end of 2021, compared to detection rates before the AI was implemented.

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Notably, these results appear to challenge other studies and trials that suggested AI may be better at diagnostics than human doctors  and the people behind this new research are now questioning why those differences exist.

"These results pose an interesting question about previous randomized controlled trials which found AI-assisted colonoscopy enabled a higher adenoma detection rate than non-AI assisted colonoscopy," noted coauthor and University of Oslo health economics researcher Yuichi Mori in a statement. "It could be the case that non-AI assisted colonoscopy assessed in these trials is different from standard non-AI assisted colonoscopy as the endoscopists in the trials may have been negatively affected by continuous AI exposure."

There are, of course, limitations to the study. For one, the AI tools used by the endoscopists are never named, and it's hard to gauge whether the tech may have improved since late 2021. For another, the sample size was quite small, and as Mori noted, it was observational, which means they were simply observing and collecting data without any intervention.

In a comment published alongside the trial, endocrinologist Omer Ahmad of the University of College London, who was not involved in the study, suggested that this study could represent a counter to the "current enthusiasm for rapid adoption of AI-based technologies."

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"Although previous experimental studies have alluded to negative modification of behaviour after AI exposure... provides the first real-world clinical evidence for the phenomenon of deskilling, potentially affecting patient-related outcomes," Ahmad said. "Although AI continues to offer great promise to enhance clinical outcomes, we must also safeguard against the quiet erosion of fundamental skills required for high-quality endoscopy."

Worse yet, Mori told Bloomberg that the effects of "deskilling" could become more pronounced and will "probably be higher" as AI tech improves over time.

Though we haven't heard much about medical AI making doctors more effective, we have seen a lot about AI harming thinking skills in general. Could it be that the same effect is occurring in hospitals? More study is necessary before we can come up with any definitive answers, but it's not looking as promising as it once did.

More on medical AI: Doctors Horrified After Google's Healthcare AI Makes Up a Body Part That Does Not Exist in Humans
Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev, his late father and predecessor Heydar Aliyev and some of their closest political allies hail from Nakhchivan.

The name of this tiny, mountainous and underdeveloped Azeri area sandwiched between Armenia, Iran and Turkiye sounds unfamiliar to those outside the strategic South Caucasus region.

But Nakhchivans name and geopolitical significance resurfaced after United States President Donald Trump hosted a White House summit between Azeri and Armenian leaders on Friday.

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Azerbaijans Aliyev and the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a preliminary peace deal to end the decades-long conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

In the early 1990s, ethnic Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region broke away from oil-rich Azerbaijan after a war that killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands.

Moscow brokered a truce in 1994, maintaining two military bases in resource-poor Armenia, supplying it with cheap energy while selling arms to Azerbaijan.

Even though the conflict did not involve Nakhchivan, it cut off the Zangezur Corridor, a 40km (25-mile) logistical umbilical cord to Azeri mainland that consists of a derelict road and parallel rusty rail tracks.

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Air travel and hours-long, bumpy transit through Iran remained the only way to reach the exclave, whose authorities ruled it like a personal fiefdom, with laws and ways of life often contradicting those of the mainland.

After winning the 2020 war over Nagorno-Karabakh and restoring control over it three years later, Baku has been eager to revive the corridor, demanding its exterritoriality and even pondering the use of military force.

A new reality in the region

The reasons go far beyond restoring access to Aliyevs ancestral land. The corridor could become a mammoth transport hub between Turkiye, Azerbaijan and Central Asia.

It may increase the flow of Central Asian hydrocarbons to Turkiye and further to Europe, boost the regional economy  and upend Russias two centuries of domination in the region that also includes Georgia.

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Armenia was reluctant to allow Azeri access to the corridor, fearing that the emboldened Turkish-Azeri tandem may jeopardise its security.

But Trump cut through the Gordian knot on Friday, and his role essentially, cements a new reality in the region, according to Emil Mustafayev, the Baku-based chief editor of the Minval Politika online magazine.

This is a serious shift in the security architecture and transport logistics of the South Caucasus, he told Al Jazeera.

While in the White House, Aliyev and Pashinyan lavished Trump with praise and nominated him for a Nobel Peace Prize.

What cracked me up is that [they] didnt lose their way about how one has to communicate in Washington, Andrey Kazantsev, an expert on the region, told Al Jazeera.

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They also flattered Trump by naming the corridor the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) and leasing it to Washington for up to 99 years with exclusive development rights.

What looks like one of Trumps favourite real estate deals actually heralds a tectonic shift.

Trumps administration has indeed been quick to find its way towards the long-due geopolitical pivot, Kazantsev said.

China, which has been promoting its Belt and Road Initiative in Asia and Eastern Europe, may remain neutral to it, and Russia, which has two military bases in Armenia, may ignore it, at least, publicly, he said. But for Iran, its a real blow.

A boost of Washingtons clout

To guard the TRIPP, Washington may use a private military company  and eventually build a military base that nominally safeguards Armenia but actually keeps an eye on Iran, said Ukrainian political analyst Aleksey Kushch.

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It means more potential pressure on Iran and a boost of Washingtons clout in the resource-rich Caspian region where US oil companies made sizeable investments in the 1990s, he said.

And Moscow is also about to lose a lot.

No matter how paradoxical it sounds, its Moscow that has been and still is a decisive factor in the peace settlement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and in solving the latters problem of accessing Nakhchivan, said Alisher Ilkhamov, head of Central Asia Due Diligence, a think tank in London.

One of the main motives for rapprochement of both sides is their push to get rid of Moscows influence, of the peacekeepers role it has imposed on them, he told Al Jazeera.

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The new deal only highlights how fictitious Moscows role as peacekeeper and middleman in peace settlement in the South Caucasus is, Ilkhamov said.

However, the deal is not yet set in stone, and the Trump-hosted summit sparked premature optimism, said Kevork Oskanian of the University of Exeter, in the United Kingdom.

This optimism should be tempered by realism and historical precedent [as] many peace processes have failed despite promising starts, he told Al Jazeera.

A deal not yet done

Baku, whose annual $5bn defence spending exceeds Yerevans entire debt-hobbled state budget, affirmed Armenias territorial integrity but did not withdraw from some 200sq km (77sq miles) of its land.

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The TRIPPs concept avoids Bakus demand for the corridors extraterritoriality, balancing sovereignty with strategic access, Oskanian said.

But there are also questions as to whether Washingtons initiatives are a principled intervention or opportunistic geopolitics, he added.

Even without direct confrontation, Moscow and Tehran could try to undermine the deal.

Their grudging acquiescence is essential  but far from guaranteed, Oskanian said.

Iran threatened on Saturday that the TRIPP will not become a gateway for Trumps mercenaries  it will become their graveyard.

Armenia is a democracy polarised over the loss of Nagorno-Karabakh and Pashinyans conflict with the Armenian Apostolic Church, Oskanian said.

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To finalise the peace deal, Pashinyan would need to hold a referendum amending Armenias constitution that mentions the reunification with Nagorno-Karabakh  and win the 2026 parliamentary vote.

Therefore, the success of Trumps deal depends on many intricacies of South Caucasus politics  and the West must engage with nuance  not just geopolitics, Oskanian concluded.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a scathing report Tuesday that criticizes how George Washington University (GWU) treated Jewish people on campus during last years pro-Palestinian rallies.

The DOJ said that the universitys administration pretty much took no action when students filed their complaints of antisemitism during the nearly two weeks Palestinian supporters from George Washington, Georgetown and American universities set up a camp on campus.

Jewish students, faculty and staff complained about the way demonstrators treated them.

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The antisemitic, hate-based misconduct by GWU students directed at Jewish GWU students, faculty, and employees was, in a word, shocking, said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon in the report.

D.C. police removed the camp nearly two weeks later due to safety concerns.

Advocates fear Trumps plans after directive for transparent college admissions data

Its par for the course of what Trump [has been] doing recently, attacking the sovereignty of a lot of universities. So this is not something that surprised me, Alex Gilenson, an incoming GW senior, who is also Jewish.

GWU continues to defend its actions during the protest.

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GW condemns antisemitism, which has absolutely no place on our campuses or in a civil and humane society, said university spokesperson Shannon McClendon in an email statement.

The university is also reviewing the DOJ report before it formally responds to it. GWU has until August 22 to do so.

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WASHINGTON  More than 800 National Guard troops are being deployed to Washington, D.C., after President Donald Trump signed an emergency order to address the citys crime rates  but some lawmakers such as Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, want the president to go even further.

Trump announced plans on Monday to federalize the D.C. police department, invoking a rarely used statute that allows the president to take control of the citys law enforcement on a temporary basis. The order would expire in 30 days unless explicitly extended by Congress.

Republicans praised Trumps decision, citing personal stories of juvenile crime and other attacks  claiming the executive order was needed to restore peace in the city. The order also marks the strongest action yet following through with Trumps desires to take control of the nations capital and repeal its self-governance laws.

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Lee has used the recent order to revive calls for the passage of his BOWSER Act, a bill to overturn local control over Washington, D.C., and place it under federal jurisdiction. The bill, named after Mayor Muriel Bowser, would revoke what is known as the D.C. Home Rule Act, which allows the city to operate as a self-governing entity.

We have no other choice, Lee wrote in an op-ed for The Spectator. The districts government has proven unable and unwilling to meet even the basic obligations of governance. Its gotten to the point where Washington is no longer merely a local embarrassment. To allow it to remain a showcase of crime, corruption and incompetence is an act of national self-harm.

The latest threats highlight an ongoing challenge for D.C. officials, who have been working for months to crack down on rising rates of youth crime. Since the beginning of 2025, juveniles have made up more than 50% of arrests related to carjacking, according to D.C. police. A majority of those arrests are made up of teens who are 15 and 16 years old.

Bowser has acknowledged the recent trends, even going so far as to create a special police unit in April tasked with responding to juvenile crime. Curfew zones for the citys juveniles have also been put in place this week.

Lee pushes for more action to dismantle D.C. autonomy

While Trump has threatened for months to take control of D.C. entirely, his latest order does not quite meet that level. Instead, Lee is now pressing for a vote on his legislation that would place the district completely under congressional jurisdiction  and has even suggested returning some of D.C.s land back to Maryland, preserving only a narrow strip of the city containing the White House, Capitol, and Supreme Court to be its own entity.

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This small federal enclave would remain under congressional controlallowing the centers of power in Washington to remain under exclusively federal control  while the rest of DCs residents would gain full voting rights and representation as Marylanders, Lee said in a post on X. This solution would give DC residents what they deserve  state-level representation  without upending the Constitution or creating an anomalous micro-state. This approach would be practical, historical, and fair.

Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., who leads the BOWSER Act in the House, has similarly pushed for the bills passage, telling the Deseret News he texted Trump last week about the legislation. Ogles said he also contacted House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., to remind him of his legislation, noting a vote on the matter needs to happen.

Its not clear whether Trump will pursue legislative action to take control of the capital city. When asked if the president plans to work with Congress, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said he is very much still interested in addressing issues such as cashless bail and other public safety policies in D.C.

Juvenile delinquency is another major problem in the city that Congress can address, Leavitt said. I know Congress is on recess right now. When they get back to work in Washington, the president looks forward to having these conversations with our friends on Capitol Hill, so we can work with them to make D.C. safe and beautiful again.

Trumps troop deployment underscores new strategy that will go further

In the meantime, Trump has made clear he plans to utilize military action if needed to crack down on crime and homelessness in Washington, D.C., announcing this week that his administration would begin removing homeless people from their encampments across the city and taking them elsewhere.

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Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday that those who are removed from the encampments would be given the choice to be placed in a homeless shelter or other facilities  or else the individuals will face fines and possibly jail time if they do not remove themselves from the streets. Trump initially threatened in a post on Truth Social to move homeless people FAR from the Capital.

When pressed on what that means, Leavitt said its an option the administration is still exploring.

Trump also suggested D.C. is just the beginning of his efforts to crack down on crime in major cities, telling reporters on Monday that were starting very strongly with D.C., and were going to clean it up real quick.

We have other cities also that are bad, very bad. You look at Chicago, how bad it is. You look at Los Angeles, how bad it is. We have other cities that are very bad, Trump said. New York has a problem. And then you have, of course, Baltimore and Oakland.  Theyre so far gone. Were not going to let it happen. Were not going to lose our cities over this. And this will go further.

The deployment in D.C. comes after Trump similarly sent National Guard troops to Los Angeles earlier this year to quell protests against his administrations immigration policies. The new strategy marks a shift from his predecessors by using military deployments within U.S. borders.
Its almost a cliche to say that Donald Trump has accumulated enormous power in the last six months.

He has busted through what used to be guardrails, come close to defying the courts, collected big bucks from ABC and CBS, not to mention $200 million from Columbia, cajoled elite law firms into settlements, and taken over law enforcement in Washington.

One example: Trump fired Erika McEntarfer as commissioner at the Bureau of Labor Statistics when he didnt like the Biden appointees weak jobs number, 73,000 for July.

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He has now hired the chief economist from the conservative Heritage Foundation, E.J. Antoni, who has been an outspoken critic of the BLS and has a PhD in economics. He worked on Heritages Project 2025, the plan that became a blueprint for the second Trump term, and wants to reform BLS  but his numbers will obviously be pleasing to the White House.

Trump Fires Labor Official Over Weak Jobs Number, Orders Criminal Probes Of Past Opponents

President Donald Trump pumps his fist while gesturing to supporters as he departs the White House in Washington on Aug. 1, 2025.

Trumps takeover of the D.C. police, which will report to Pam Bondi, is legal under the citys limited home-rule powers, and others have used such power for different ideological goals. The move has been denounced by area Democrats and whether it succeeds is an open question.

Read On The Fox News App

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The presidents insistence on meeting Vladimir Putin in Alaska without knowing whether hes serious about a peace deal, or even a cease-fire, is a classic roll of the dice. Trump has been downplaying expectations, saying he may have to walk away.

While Trump thrives on the spectacle of these leader-to-leader negotiations, they dont always pan out. Despite his loving exchanges with Kim Jong-un, North Korea never reduced its nuclear arsenal.

In fairness, Trump has pulled off cease-fires with a number of warring countries, the latest being Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Trump Says He'll Know 'In The First Two Minutes' If Ukraine Peace Deal Is Possible With Putin

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The president has ordered up so many criminal investigations of his opponents  his perceived enemies  that weve lost sight of the fact that this kind of interference with the Justice Department has long been considered way off-limits.

The latest is New York AG Letitia James, who brought the civil suit against Trump that resulted in a $350 million penalty but is now being appealed. Also Sen. Adam Schiff on a question about mortgages.

And he has ordered up criminal probes of the Obama administration for allegedly targeting him over Russian hacking that turned out to be unsuccessful, and accused Barack Obama of "treason." Never mind that a special counsel from the first term investigated this and brought no charges. Trump has also demanded a probe of his first cybersecurity chief, Chris Krebs, and Miles Taylor, better known as Anonymous.

Trump Delivers On Campaign Promises While Liberal Media Cries He's 'Destroying Democracy'

Former President Barack Obama speaks at a Democracy Forum event hosted by the Obama Foundation at the Javits Center in New York City on Nov. 17, 2022.

The president does this out in the open. You dont have to rely on, well, anonymous sources.

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National Reviews Rich Lowry said recently that Trump is the most consequential president since Ronald Reagan. "Even if Trumps second term ended tomorrow, he would have left a significant mark." Its hard to argue with that.

Subscribe To Howie's Media Buzzmeter Podcast, A Riff On The Day's Hottest Stories

Then-President-elect Donald Trump speaks at a news conference at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., on Dec. 16, 2024.

All this amounts to an image of a strong president, a fighter determined to stoke his base and smite his enemies. The average D.C. resident doesnt feel safe with this frightening wave of carjackings  "only" 16 of them in July. The average American is just glad the border has been shut down. Trumps opponents are on notice that hell use lawsuits and legal threats to get his way.

And his war on the media is constant, with him calling for some individual journalists to be fired, and yet  irony alert  unlike Joe Biden, he speaks to them virtually every day.

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Whether you like this president or not, whether you approve of his policies or not, he keeps declaring states of emergency to justify his blizzard of executive orders.

And thats why he continues to drive the media agenda.





Original article source: Donald Trump as strongman, riling up his base and investigating his enemies
WASHINGTON  Donald Trump has a simple solution when numbers are telling him something he does not want to hear: Make up new numbers.

The presidents strategy, if you want to call it one, was on vivid display this week on three fronts: His decision to appoint a conservative crony to an essential federal agency charged with compiling the monthly unemployment numbers, his decision to declare an emergency in Washington, D.C., while dismissing data showing crime in the city is in decline and at decades-long lows, and his demand for a new and likely unconstitutional census which would exclude undocumented immigrants.

Related: Trump Reacts To Bad Jobs Numbers By Firing BLS Commissioner

In general, when Trump is in power, he likes to paint a rosy picture of an America where everything is going as right as it can be. When hes out of office, Trump makes wildly false claims about the national unemployment rate and the crime rate to attack Democrats. During his 2016 presidential campaign, for example, Trump claimed the unemployment rate was as high as 42%, even though it was about 5% at the time.

Related: Ivanka Trump Is Back  And Helping Plan This Unconventional Event At The White House

But after a government report suggested the labor market is cooling off in his second term, Trump appears to be gearing up to muzzle or manipulate the Bureau of Labor Statistics, firing its respected leader and announcing plans to replace her with a partisan nominee who suggested getting rid of monthly jobs reports entirely. And thats after the unemployment rate had only gone up a tenth of a percentage point.

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At the same time, Trump is deploying National Guard troops to patrol the streets of the capital, despite figures that Trumps own Department of Justice has touted showing a drop in crime there. Hes pressured Goldman Sachs to replace its chief economist after it warned that American consumers will pay for a large share of Trumps tariffs, and hes shut down government data collection that helps inform policymakers, including at the Environmental Protection Agency and NASA.

Experts say Trumps moves smack of authoritarianism seen in other countries.

Its part of what scholars would call the authoritarian playbook  undermining factual information and falsifying things that you know to be true, Natalie Koch, a Syracuse University professor who researches authoritarianism, told HuffPost.

If theres one thing you can count on, its the president hating numbers. Bloomberg via Getty Images

Koch has studied personality cults and said that when Trump does something like baselessly claiming the jobs numbers are rigged, the statement itself is a flex.

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These kinds of really, really brazen lies ... serve more of that sort of purpose of demonstrating power and the ability to just bend people, Koch said.

Monthly jobs numbers are compiled from surveys of thousands of businesses and government agencies. The method isnt perfect and doesnt include every business, which would be costly and impractical. The reports are often revised upward or downward later, when more information becomes available. Trumps allies have pointed to declining survey response rates as a reason for the supposed unreliability of the jobs numbers, but have shown no willingness to actually address the problem, which has broadly confounded researchers and would likely cost money to solve.

You would have to certainly pay more for the program in the short run, because you have to do all the research behind redesigning the system. And do the statistical agencies want to do this? Yes, but there has been no funding for additional programs at the BLS for 15 years, Erica Groshen, who served as BLS commissioner from 2013 to 2017, said in an interview.

Related: Trumps Firing Of The BLS Commissioner Is An Ongoing Trainwreck And Embarrassment

Trump is upset that the previous two monthsof job growth during his presidency were revised downward in the jobs report for July. He nominated Heritage Foundation economist E.J. Antoni, a BLS critic, to lead the agency going forward, a selection that has alarmed both conservative and liberal economic experts.

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Democrats are warning that Antonis confirmation could even lead the government to fly blind straight into a recession.

E.J. Antoni is an unqualified right-wing extremist who wont think twice about manipulating BLS data and degrading the credibility of the agency to make Trump happyand has already suggested shelving important data entirely, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said in a statement. Putting him in charge of the BLS is a dangerous move that puts nonpartisan economic dataand by extension, our entire economyplainly at risk.

Its unclear if Antoni will have enough Republican support in the Senate to be confirmed as BLS chair. But Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), who leads the Senate committee with jurisdiction over his nomination, said Tuesday he agreed with Trump that the agency needs to produce unbiased economic information.

Related: Trump's Urging For Epstein Distraction Will Lead To Shocker At Putin Summit, Michael Wolff Says

Trump is making similar efforts to wave off data on falling crime in Washington. Speaking with reporters at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, Trump urged the city to release real statistics on violent crime in the district. The city has reported that violent crime fell 35% last year and 24% so far this year. The D.C. police union has accused the citys police department of misclassifying crimes to create a false appearance of improvement, but the citys numbers track with similar trends in other big cities.

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The whole thing is a rigged deal, Trump said. They said its the best in 20 years. No, its the worst in 20 years.

White House adviser Stephen Miller went further in a post online: Crime stats in big blue cities are fake. The real rates of crime, chaos & dysfunction are orders of magnitude higher, he wrote. Everyone who lives in these areas knows this. They program their entire lives around it.

Members of the National Guard on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 12, 2025. The Washington Post via Getty Images

Crime in Washington, while still higher than in some other cities around the U.S., is at a 30-year low. It did spike badly in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, but it has since come down, as one of Trumps top MAGA enforcers acknowledged a few months ago.

Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and the efforts of our Make D.C. Safe Again initiative, the District has seen a significant decline in violent crime, former interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin wrote in an April press release thats still live on the DOJs website. We are proving that strong enforcement and smart policies can make our communities safer.

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Last week, Trump announced hed ordered the Commerce Department to conduct a new census, one excluding undocumented immigrants. Its an incredibly important survey for understanding the countrys demographics and apportioning its political representation.



People who are in our Country illegally WILL NOT BE COUNTED IN THE CENSUS, the president wrote on social media.



Trumps directive is contrary to the Constitution, which calls for a census every 10 years  the next ones supposed to be in 2030  and says the government should count everybody.

Trump hopes a quick and partial count could help his party in next years midterm elections. If Democrats retake the House, an outcome many analysts consider likely, then the administration will have to deal with subpoenas, and Trump could face impeachment.



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Koch, the authoritarianism scholar, told HuffPost that Trump has been nothing if not consistent.

Ive been thinking about the fact Trump said he would only be a dictator on the first day, Koch said. And what we have seen so far is that hes been a dictator for the last seven months.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Nineties nostalgia is big business these days. Oasis are the hottest ticket in town, the biggest romcom of the year featured Bridget Jones, TikTok is awash with Gen-Zers pining for the Nineties summer of their imagination and pedal pushers are making an uneasy comeback.

Latching on to this trend was surely not on Myles Bonnars mind when he created The Ballad of Big Mags (BBC Sounds), a six-part podcast about Margaret Haney, AKA Big Mags, a fearsome matriarch who ruled the roost over a notorious Stirling housing estate. Yet it made me, someone who spent his teenage years in the 1990s, hopelessly sentimental.

It had it all: moral panics about paedophiles and neighbours from hell, tabloid sensationalism about sinkhole estates and untouchable criminals, a Scottish heroin epidemic. It even had a starring role for Robert Kilroy-Silk and his pugilistic daytime chat show. The only things missing were a Pulp soundtrack, a front-bench sex scandal and an appearance from Mr Blobby.

Haney, left, made an abrasive appearance on Kilroy, clashing with two anonymised paedophiles - Chris Cruickshank

Bonnar, however, wasnt laying it on that thick  by itself, the story of Big Mags stands as an intoxicating time capsule for the Britpop-New Labour era. Bonnar, whether he meant to or not, put his finger on something  even that eras tales of criminality and poverty carried a certain swagger.

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Haney had it in spades  a formidable, charismatic community leader and the de facto head of a disreputable clan on Stirlings Raploch estate, she became irresistible media fodder when she came to attention in January 1997.

Alan Christie was a convicted paedophile, recently released from prison, who had been rehoused in Raploch. Having got wind of it, Haney led a mob to Christies house and forced him out. For several months, she leased out her services, turning up at similar protests across the country, becoming semi-famous off the back of it  sometimes she and her crowd would force a paedophile out of an area before theyd even moved in. You couldnt help but be impressed by communities coming together to prove the effectiveness of direct action.

Haney joined protests across the country to force alleged paedophiles out of properties - Chris Cruickshank

There was a host of amusing details: Haney rallying neighbours to her crusade by marching up and down the street shouting into a childrens karaoke machine; the claim that she was the inspiration for EastEnders Big Mo (the BBC have denied this); the claim that she was the inspiration for a character in Ian Rankins Rebus novel Dead Souls (Rankin has confirmed this). All in all she was a ready-made media treat: a flip-flop-wearing granny with a 60-a-day growl who made sex offenders quake in their boots. Well always have people watching and waiting, she warned paedophiles hoping to be rehoused.

Yet Bonnars meticulous story wouldnt amount to much without a sting in its tail. While the press was happy to paint Haney as the moral heart of the Raploch estate, there was a group of people who viewed the Kilroy appearance (where she went toe-to-toe with two anonymised paedophiles) and the interviews on BBC Scotland with disgust: the people of Raploch.

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Big Mags wasnt the only Haney on the estate, and as one local journalist put it, the family were a whole legion of one-man and one-woman crime waves  they were the stuff of legend. By the mid-1990s, around 40 of Haneys extended family had been in jail or custody, while Big Mags herself had been convicted of assault, fraud and breach of the peace. As Haney said when a judge railed against her family: I dont know what hes complaining about; its my family that keeps him in a job.

Haney was a formidable, charismatic figure but also had a history of criminal dealings - Chris Cruickshank

Soon the letters began trickling into the Daily Record, all from Raploch residents furious at Haneys newfound fame. One stated that the Raploch  which the media had dubbed Psychoville  was respectable until she and her family came along. One declared bluntly: Big Mags is not our role model. Her neighbours had good reason to complain. The woman who was being painted in the press as a salt-of-the-earth campaigner who wanted nothing more than to protect children was the head of a huge heroin-dealing operation.

When the Daily Record ran a Dob in your local narco campaign, the phone line was jammed with people desperate to shop Haney. Bonnar had got hold of a recording of a community meeting from 1992 in which Haney is railing against drugs in the Raploch. The locals cannot stifle their laughter.

In the most satisfying of narrative twists, Big Mags, that scourge of the paedophile, began to get a taste of her own medicine. First, an angry mob saw her thrown off the Raploch estate. Then, wherever Haney was to be rehoused, local people would destroy the proposed house. The Haneys ended up in homeless accommodation in another area of Stirling, in what would become known as Fortress Haney.

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One local journalist put the neighbours turning against Haney down to tall poppy syndrome, but I dont quite agree. It was enormous thistle syndrome  Haney was an abrasive juggernaut of charm, influence and destruction, and one that gave all of Scotland a bad name. Bonnar clearly delighted in the fact that Haneys reign of chaos took place in the shadow of Stirling Castle. Big Mags, Queen of Scots. (Later, the people of Bannockburn rose up against her, helping Haney fit nicely into the folklore of Scotland.)

Its a terrific listen, and the series is entirely fair to Haney, allowing all sides of this complex character to gradually edge into the light so that we can all make our own judgments. Throughout, however, is a nagging feeling that even Haney, a famed and feared drug dealer and chief executive of a family from hell, had within her a community spirit and a sense of societal cohesion that is almost entirely lacking today.

Nineties nonsense nostalgia gone too far? Almost certainly. But the Big Mags, booze-and-fags 1990s gave the UK a shared sense of identity  whether we liked it or not.

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.
Sodas and chips are displayed at a convenience store in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens in New York. As of this month, 12 states, mostly Republican and in the South, have opted to limit SNAP recipients from purchasing foods such as soda and candy. (Photo by Shalina Chatlani/ Stateline)

At least 12 states have received federal approval to restrict recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, from using their benefits to purchase certain foods such as soda and candy.

The states receiving waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture are overwhelmingly Republican. Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia received approval last week. The feds granted waivers to Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska and Utah earlier this year.

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SNAP served on average nearly 42 million people a month in fiscal 2024, with about 12% of the U.S. population receiving benefits.

The trend is part of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s agenda to make America healthy again by inviting states to apply for waivers to change SNAP rules to limit what types of food recipients can buy.

Kennedy said in a statement that SNAP has used taxpayer dollars to fuel Americas diabetes and chronic disease epidemics.

These waivers help put real food back at the center of the program and empower states to lead the charge in protecting public health, the statement said.

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Critics of these waivers say the policy could harm people in places such as food deserts, where healthy options are limited, and take away recipients power to make their own food choices.

Craig Gundersen, a professor in the Department of Economics at Baylor University, told Stateline that these changes could harm the integrity of the program.

One of the main reasons why SNAP is such a successful program is because it gives dignity and autonomy to recipients. It gives dignity to recipients by allowing them to shop in the same manner as their neighbors, friends and family, and it gives autonomy to recipients by saying to families: You are the best ones to make decisions for your families about what to purchase, Gundersen said.

Gundersen said he worries the restrictions could stigmatize SNAP, which he called one of the best programs for fighting food insecurity.

Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Dayton Public Schools is going to court against the state amid busing issues that began with the passage of the state budget earlier this summer.

The Dayton Public School District Board of Education has filed against the State of Ohio, stating the recent changes to busing legalities for the district are arbitrary, unreasonable, and discriminatory legislation enacted by the State.

DPS looks to community for help with high school transportation amid bus changes

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DPS has been in a race against time to find solutions to busing high school students after state legislators, including local State Rep. Phil Plummer, made changes to the Ohio budget that restrict DPS from purchasing RTA bus passes for students.

Legislators cited safety concerns for students transferring at downtown bus hubs via public transit, but the law was only applied to Montgomery County when finalized.

The Amendment [] applied to the eight largest counties in the State of Ohio, but the State narrowed the Amendments application even further to ensure that it only applies to Montgomery County, wrote DPS in the filed complaint.

The complaint states this violates Ohios Uniformity Clause, which requires all laws shall have a uniform operation throughout the state, as well as the 14th Amendments Equal Protections Clause and students right to intrastate travel.

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Because of this amendment, DPS is unable to purchase RTA bus passes for students, forcing students to find other means of transportation or purchase the bus pass themselves for $60 per month.

Franklin County court records show DPS decided to file this complaint based on how harmful this law will be for students and families.

Within the court filing, DPS asks for an injunction so the district can keep working with RTA to provide busing to their students.

2 NEWS spoke with State Senator Willis Blackshear about the suit  he is a local legislator who voted against the budget back in June.

The kids will suffer from this. And, you know, I dont believe that it should have came to this. The school district being public, their backs were against a wall, said State Sen. Willis Blackshear. You know, they didnt have adequate time to adjust and to find a solution.

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Blackshear also told 2 NEWS that the amendment initially would have given Dayton Public Schools a year to figure out solutions, but was later changed to go into effect immediately.

A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 14.

2 NEWS will continue to follow this case closely.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
The United States and China clashed over the Panama Canal at the United Nations yesterday [Macau time], with the U.S. warning that Beijings influence over the key waterway could threaten global trade and security and China calling U.S. accusations a pretext to take over the canal.

The clash took place at a U.N. Security Council meeting where Panamas President Jose Raul Mulino stressed the neutrality of the canal and his countrys ownership of the waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

Panama holds the council presidency this month, and Mulino was chairing a meeting on challenges to maritime security. Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza told members these include piracy, armed robbery, transnational crime and cyber criminals weaponizing artificial intelligence to attack ports where there is minimal cyber security, maximum exposure.

U.S. President Donald Trump thrust Panama into the spotlight even before winning election last November by suggesting that his country should consider retaking control of the Panama Canal and accusing Panama of ceding influence to China.

The U.S. built the canal in the early 1900s as it looked for ways to facilitate the transit of commercial and military vessels between its coasts. Control of the waterway transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter.

Chinas U.N. Ambassador Fu Cong emphasized to the council that Panama has consistently and effectively managed the canal, making significant contributions to global shipping and trade.

China has always respected the permanent neutrality of the canal and firmly supports Panama in safeguarding its sovereignty over the canal to ensure its openness and smooth operation, he said.

Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea, who spoke afterward, went after China, expressing concern about its outsized influence over the Panama Canal area, especially over critical infrastructure and port operations.

Alluding to its claims in the South China Sea, she said, Chinas expansive and unlawful maritime claims and aggressive actions demonstrate its threat to maritime security and commerce. She said the U.S. rejects these claims and supports countries opposing them.

Chinas influence in the canal area is not just a risk to Panama and the United States, but rather a potential threat to global trade and security, Shea said.

The Trump administration has pressured China to have the Hong Kong-based operator of ports at either end of the canal sell those interests to a U.S. consortium that includes BlackRock Inc.

The United States fabrication of lies and groundless attacks against China are nothing but a pretext for seeking control of the canal, Ambassador Fu said. EDITH M. LEDERER, United Nations, MDT/AP

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  As students return to class, technology is taking center stage this year for Dayton Public Schools.

Students from kindergarten to ninth grade returned to school in Dayton Tuesday, while high school students return on Wednesday.

MAP: When does your child go back to school?

2 NEWS spoke with Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence who says the district is excided to roll out new tech this year, from hardware in the classrooms to software that supports learning.

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They can now have their own tools to use, to utilize, to work on their student work, said Dr. David Lawrence, DPS superintendent.

For the first time, every DPS student in grades 7-12 will get a laptop to take home. Lawrence says theyve had the supplies for a while, but they are changing how they use the tech.

We have thousands of laptops that were bought during COVID and right after COVID, said Lawrence. But why do we have these laptops sitting in carts all over the district instead of putting them in the hands of kids?

The laptops are part of the districts One on One imitative to enhance student learning.

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We have after hours teacher support; thats not something you want to do on your phone. So you want to pull up your laptop and then go into what we call homework hotline rooms so that you can get support with homework, said Lawrence.

But this year, its more than just new laptops  DPS is also using AI to bring lessons together and give students extra academic support.

I love the fact that, if Im a fifth grader, and I have not traveled the world and we have a unit on Himalayan mountains, then I can look it up through AI, and it can not only tell me about it, but show me pictures of it, video footage of it, and other people who travel to the Himalayans and talk about that experience, said Lawrence.

Parents, teachers prepare students for school year amid high prices

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But with new technology, its important to use it correctly. Lawrence says the district is working to prevent students from misusing AI in their lessons.

There are other technology tools where we can upload students written assignments to determine how much of it was used with artificial intelligence, or how much of a work that was actually written by the student, said Lawrence.

To make the use of tech in classrooms more efficient, Lawrence says they will be training students on how to use and maintain their laptops throughout the year, as well as teach them the downsides of solely relying on artificial intelligence in their 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 WDTN.com.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  As Dayton high school students return to class Wednesday, theyll have to figure out their own way to get to school.

Bus driver shortages prevent high school students from riding yellow buses, and recent legislation changes prevent Dayton Public Schools from purchasing RTA bus passes for students.

With the districts hands tied, DPS says families and community members are getting creative in order to help the kids make it to school.

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DPS implementing new tech as school begins

DPS Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence says local churches and organizations have reached out to assist where they can.

There are churches and community groups that call me all the time. Were trying to coordinate all that so they can adapt schools to help with the transportation, said Dr. David Lawrence, DPS superintendent. So its constantly moving, its fluid, but were going to figure it out.

Lawrence says organizations like Omega CDC will be funding Thurgood Marshall students transportation on the RTA this year.

In previous years, DPS paid for and provided free RTA bus passes to high school students in order to still provide transportation even though they were short on yellow buses.

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But in 2025, students grades 9-12 will have to dish out $60 per month for an RTA pass themselves.

This comes after lawmakers like State Rep. Phil Plummer pushed for a change in the Ohio Budget earlier this summer, stressing safety concerns for the students transferring at a downtown hub.

Unless DPS and RTA could provide a transfer point outside of downtown, or transfer-less routes, DPS cannot buy the bus passes for students, forcing DPS families to shell out hundreds of dollars on transportation over the school year.

DPS parents scrambling for transportation solutions before school starts

DPS recently opened a new $8 million transportation center for yellow buses to ensure all first through eighth graders arrive to school without issues Tuesday.

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All routes covered. That means we didnt have any routes uncovered, said Lawrence. So thats an exciting way to start the first day.

And now DPS leaders can focus on finding solutions on high school students. Lawrence says he hopes to work with more local organizations to find creative opportunities for student transportation.

High school students return to school on Wednesday, Aug. 13. Leaders are anxious to see how everything plays out as the school year continues.

I get to hear tomorrow what happens. Were unsure, said Lawrence. There are so many different variables and different questions about transportation.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Two people are in critical condition after being struck by an alleged hit-and-run driver Tuesday night.

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan police, the crash at the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Pecos Road was reported shortly after 11 p.m.

Police said two women and a man were crossing Pecos in a marked crosswalk against the pedestrian signal when an 80-year-old driver struck all three. Two of the people hit were critically injured and transported to Sunrise Hospital. The third person was treated and released from the hospital.

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One person was on a bike, according to a report obtained by 8 News Now.

Nevada pedestrian death rates among highest in country

The driver, identified as Rafi Neressian, did not stay at the scene. Police said he was later arrested at his address. He is facing three charges of failing to stay at the scene of a crash. Records show he is scheduled to make an initial appearance in the Las Vegas Justice Court on Thursday.

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LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK)  Longview Police are investigating after an elementary school student was grazed by a vehicle on Wednesday morning.

Texarkana police find additional human bones in creek bed during search

Longview ISD released a statement saying a student at Clarence W. Bailey Elementary was involved in an accident near campus. The child was taken to a local hospital out of an abundance of caution, but is expected to be okay. The mother reported to the district that the child is doing well and is eager to return to school.

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The Longview Police Department identified the driver as Susana Granado, who was arrested for failure to stop at the scene of a collision causing bodily injury. She is being held on a $5,000 bond.

Mugshot of Susana Granado, courtesy of the Gregg County Sheriffs Office

The Longview Police Department reminds all drivers that with the start of the school year, there are more students walking to and from school and waiting at bus stops, Longview PD said. The Longview POlice Department wants to encourage all drivers to be mindful of their surroundings, especially in neighborhoods and school zones as our students go back to school this week.

Earlier this month, KETK+ Host Haylee Hines spoke with Lufkin PD for back-to-school safety tips. Check it out:

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.

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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX)  When the owners of Holman House Furniture in Grand Junction heard a driver crashed a vehicle into their store, the first thought they had was  please tell us everyone is alive.

At around 9:30pm Monday night, a driver traveling at high speed rolled upside down in the street and crashed back-first through the walls of the Holman House Furniture showroom, located on the corner of Highway 6 and 25 Road.

Witnesses say two people in the car ran away but later returned to the location. Grand Junction police told WesternSlopeNow three people were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Alcohol, they say, may have been a factor in the crash.

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The morning after, the Benakis family who owns Holman House invited WesternSlopeNow into their showroom, which is still open for business and looking warm and welcoming, especially all things considered. They say that it is all thanks to the towing, cleaning, glass repair, and construction crews  some who arrived in the middle of the night  to assist in getting things back to as normal as possible.

But one look to the corner of the otherwise pristine showroom shows they have a long road ahead. The crash left the showroom with structural, roof, and concrete damage, repairs which are estimated at over $200,000.

Through it all, Dave, Yvette, and Ashley Benakis tell WesternSlopeNow, the most important thing to them is that no customers or employees in their store were hit, and occupants of the car made it out alive.





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People sitting their driving theory test will soon need to swot up on life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills, the UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has decided.

All road users are being encouraged to learn the basics and know how to use a defibrillator in an emergency.

It's hoped the questions, which will be added to the car and motorcycle theory test in early 2026, could prevent avoidable deaths.

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Drivers are often first on the scene when someone suffers a cardiac arrest, says the DVSA.

Adding the information into the official learning materials means that the 2.4 million learner drivers who take their theory test each year will have a better understanding of the skills to use in an emergency, it says.

Learning materials have already been updated with the new content, including questions such as "Who can use a public access defibrillator?" - the answer being "everyone".

A defibrillator gives a jolt of energy to the heart, which can help get it beating normally.

The devices are designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions.

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If CPR is given and a defibrillator used within the first minutes of collapse, survival rates could be as high as 70%, evidence suggests. Without it, fewer than one in 10 survive.

If someone is unconscious and not breathing normally, call 999 and start CPR straight away.

This can be "hands-only" CPR to deliver timely chest compressions to get blood pumping.

One of the new theory test questions is about the correct depth to push down.

To carry out a chest compression, the NHS advises:

kneel next to the person and place the heel of your hand on the breastbone at the centre of their chest. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the hand that's on their chest and interlock your fingers

position yourself so your shoulders are directly above your hands

using your body weight (not just your arms), press straight down by 5 to 6cm (2 to 2.5 inches) on their chest

keeping your hands on their chest, release the compression and allow their chest to return to its original position

repeat these compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 times a minute until an ambulance arrives or for as long as you can

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James Cant, chief executive of Resuscitation Council UK, said: "We're delighted to be working with the DVSA and other partners to introduce CPR and defibrillator awareness into the driving theory test.

"By embedding these life-saving skills into such a widely taken assessment, we can help ensure that more people, from all communities, gain the knowledge and confidence to act during a cardiac arrest."
(Reuters) -A small fire ignited by debris from a destroyed drone was promptly doused at the Slavyansk oil refinery in Russia's region of Krasnodar, authorities said on Wednesday.

Russia's air defence units destroyed 46 Ukrainian drones overnight, the defence ministry said on Telegram, including five over the Krasnodar region. The ministry reports only drones downed, not the number launched by Ukraine.

"There are no casualties reported," the administration said on the Telegram messaging app. "The fire was promptly extinguished. Emergency and special services are working at the scene."

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A car caught fire at the refinery, the regional administration added in its post.

Reuters was not able to independently verify the reports. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine, which says its strikes inside Russia aim to destroy infrastructure key to Moscow's war efforts, including energy facilities.

The Slavyansk refinery is a private plant with a capacity of around 100,000 barrels per day, supplying fuel for both domestic use and export.

The overnight Ukrainian drone attack also targeted Russia's southern region of Volgograd, the regional governor said.

Drone debris fell on a 16-story residential building in the city of Volgograd, forcing residents to leave their homes, the governor, Andrei Bocharov, said on Telegram.

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The city of Volgograd is the administrative centre of the broader region of the same name.

The Russian defence ministry said its units destroyed 11 drones overnight over Volgograd.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Clarence Fernandez)
The Anna Police Department recently arrested an electrical breaker thief from El Salvador, with help from a drone.

Anna police recently busted an El Salvador citizen, Raymond Fernando Salazar Melgar, for allegedly stealing electrical breakers from newly-built homes, the department announced August 10. Officers used a drone to track Melgar and another suspect casing a neighborhood, before they arrested him.

Melgar was booked in the Collin County Jail on a $25,000 bond for charges including burglary, driving without a license, and failure to stop properly, a Collin County employee told The Dallas Express. But he was released to another agency, which the employee could not specify, on August 12.

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Anna and surrounding communities have been hit hard by electrical breaker thieves targeting new construction, according to the department. During the investigation, police found 288 stolen breakers.

Anna Assistant Chief of Police Terry Eoff told The Dallas Express these thefts took place in Anna and Celina. However, the case is still under investigation, and breaker thefts are widely reported in this area, so the exact location is to be determined.

Detectives and officers obtained intelligence and video identifying a possible suspect vehicle, according to the department. So they entered the vehicle into the departments license plate reader system, and a camera detected the vehicle on August 10.

Officers and an off-duty detective noticed this, and police tracked the vehicle to Anna Town Square. Then, an officer/pilot launched a drone.

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Police deployed the drone within minutes of locating the suspect, according to Eoff, and it observed him for nearly an hour.

The drone tracked the suspects as they walked around, casing the neighborhood, through three battery changes, the department posted. The drone maintained surveillance on the suspects until they re-entered their vehicle and drove away.

Then, officers stopped the vehicle for a traffic violation near County Road 423 and Highway 5, according to Eoff. Melgar was with an adult female at the time, and they did not resist arrest. Eoff said officers did not arrest the woman, but she may have charges at a later date.

The Dallas Express asked if any larger criminal groups were involved. Eoff said while there are no ties to criminal groups known at this time, the matter is still under investigation. He could not confirm Melgars immigration status.

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Melgar led officers to a number of offense locations across multiple jurisdictions, according to the department.

This demonstrates phenomenal teamwork between multiple patrol shifts, the drone unit, and the criminal investigations division, and will solve numerous cases, the department posted. Great work by all involved.

Anna and nearby communities like Celina have seen massive population booms in recent years, bringing swarms of developers. Annas population was less than 10,000 in 2012, but it more than doubled by 2022. Celinas growth is even more drastic: from close to 8,000 in 2012 to more than 34,000 by 2022.

These thousands of new homes are apparently appealing targets for burglars. But now, Annas police have eyes in the sky.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  An increase in rapes is the only problem in FBI statistics that show violent crime dropping across the entire Las Vegas valley from 2023 to 2024.

Violent crime in three other categories  homicide, aggravated assault and robbery  declined in the valley, according to combined data for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Henderson, North Las Vegas and Boulder City.

Statistics released last week showed violent crime dropped 4.5% nationwide.

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The Las Vegas valley had a 7.3% decline over the same time.

Across all jurisdictions in the valley, rapes increased from 1,050 in 2023 to 1,097 in 2024, a 4.5% increase. The number of reports went up for Metro (+27), Henderson (+18) and Boulder City (+5), with only North Las Vegas declining (-3).

In the other three categories, violent crimes were down for Metro and Henderson. North Las Vegas homicides increased from 30 to 35, and Boulder City robberies went from 0 to 4.

In a January interview, Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill was asked how he measured success.

In my business, probably the No. 1 thing we look at is crime reduction, and how well were doing against crime, McMahill said. We had another widely successful year against crime  down 20% in murders again  we ended up with 107 homicides last year. Thats the lowest number in a very long time.

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The additional data from Henderson, North Las Vegas and Boulder City show the results were consistent across the valley.

Last week, we reported one stat on property crime that stood out in the FBI data: Motor vehicle thefts decline 35% in metro Las Vegas in 2024.

Metro police have jurisdiction over Las Vegas and all of unincorporated Clark County, a much larger urban area than the areas covered by city police departments.

The graph below shows 2024 data for each of the violent crime categories, and how many occurred in each jurisdiction last year. Hover over the bars for more information.

The changes from 2023 to 2024 are summarized below:

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Metro police: Homicides: -24.1%, falling from 141 in 2023 to 107 in 2024 Rapes: +3.1%, climbing from 859 to 886 Aggravated assaults: -5.7%, falling from 5,592 to 5,273 Robberies: -13.8%, falling from 1,292 to 1,113

Henderson police Homicides: -20%, falling from 10 in 2023 to 8 in 2024 Rapes: +20.2%, climbing from 89 to 107 Aggravated assaults: -7.1%, falling from 690 to 641 Robberies: -11.3%, falling from 203 to 180

North Las Vegas police Homicides: +16.7%, climbing from 30 in 2023 to 35 in 2024 Rapes: -3.0%, falling from 100 to 97 Aggravated assaults: -14.6%, falling from 795 to 679 Robberies: -17.8%, falling from 400 to 329

Boulder City police Homicides: -100%, falling from 1 in 2023 to 0 in 2024 Rapes: +250%, climbing from 2 to 7 Aggravated assaults: down 33.3%, falling from 24 to 16 Robberies: climbed from 0 to 4



8 News Now examined crime statistics halfway through 2025, and the trend was continuing. See that report here: Most major crime categories down in 2025 per Las Vegas Metro police statistics.

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NEW YORK (PIX11)  With dangerous rip currents and rough surf, lifeguards across New York and New Jersey are urging beachgoers to think twice before heading into the water  especially when lifeguards are off duty.

In places like Seaside Heights, New Jersey, police say they could even arrest swimmers who refuse to get out of the water when ordered.

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As summer heat continues, beaches are packed  and so are the lifeguard stands. Crews are on high alert, working to keep swimmers safe in waters that can turn dangerous in seconds.

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The last few times I was here, I did see like four incidents where people were drowning, said Gigi Lee.

Still, not every rescue ends in survival. Authorities say 77-year-old Liudmila Marchenko died after being pulled from the water at Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn, just after 6 p.m. Monday.

When it is rough, of course, you dont go inside the water, you try not to go so far, said beachgoer Petrona Anorve.

The same evening in Seaside Heights, a 31-year-old man swimming with his children died.

He and four others, including his 16-year-old son, were pulled from the water around 6:30 p.m.  after lifeguards had gone off duty at 5 p.m.

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We were quick. If we werent there within two minutes, there would have been five lives lost. One 16-year-old took on a lot of water. We almost lost him, but he made it, said Chief Thomas Boyd of the Seaside Heights Police Department.

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Since last weekend, there have been more than half a dozen drownings, near-drownings, or water rescues across area beaches. At Brighton Beach late Tuesday, many swimmers said the waves were hard to fight.

The waves were pretty strong and big, so I didnt go that deep into the water, said Yurii.

Boyds advice is simple: Its just common sense. If theres no lifeguard there, dont swim. Dont swim.

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Lifeguards on New York City beaches are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. In New Jersey, hours vary but typically run from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- During last month's third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), overseas exhibitors made up 35 percent of participants -- up 3 percentage points from 2024 and 9 points from the inaugural 2023 edition -- with industry giants like Honeywell, GE Healthcare, and Siemens already securing their spots for next year, underscoring foreign firms' growing commitment to China. As a major national platform for global industrial collaboration, the CISCE embodies the enduring appeal of the Chinese market during its 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), marked not only by increased foreign investment but also by significant shifts in investment fields that reflect China's broader economic transformation. HARD-WON GAINS The expo's momentum echoes wider trends. By June 2025, China's actual utilized foreign direct investment (FDI) reached 708.73 billion U.S. dollars since 2021, hitting the 14th Five-Year Plan target of 700 billion U.S. dollars six months ahead of schedule. In the same period, 229,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were launched, 25,000 more than in the 2016-2020 period. Despite fluctuations in FDI in recent years, China's ability to maintain steady foreign capital inflows stands out in a challenging global environment. According to the United Nations, global FDI fell 11 percent in 2024, marking the second straight year of decline after a sharp drop in 2023. Early data for the first quarter of 2025 offers little optimism, suggesting a possible third consecutive year of contraction. "Weak global direct investment has weighed on China's FDI, but a closer look shows resilience," said Fan Penghui, a senior researcher with the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, a think tank with the Ministry of Commerce. "A periodic slowdown after a peak is normal. Investment cycles ebb and flow." FOCUS ON HIGH-TECH SECTORS In fact, China's high-tech industries and service sectors have seen continuous growth in foreign investment, which underscores that foreign capital is riding on the development wave of China's new quality productive forces, Fan noted. In 2024, high-tech industries attracted 34.6 percent of foreign investment, up 6 percentage points from 2020. The first half of 2025 accelerated this shift. High-tech sectors attracted 127.87 billion yuan in foreign capital, with e-commerce services surging 127.1 percent, chemical pharmaceuticals up 53 percent, and aerospace equipment manufacturing rising 36.2 percent. Amid China's artificial intelligence (AI) boom and computing capacity boost, U.S. materials science giant Corning plans to localize the production of high-end optical fibers in Shanghai, responding to the need for denser, faster data transmission in AI data centers, where fiber requirements are much higher than those in traditional facilities, according to Lin Chunmei, president and general manager of Corning Greater China. For many multinational corporations, China has evolved beyond a sales market into a hub for growth and innovation, prompting increased R&D investment to tap into the country's innovation potential. According to Leng Yan, executive vice president of Mercedes-Benz China, the company has poured over 10.5 billion yuan into Chinese R&D over five years, and with its Shanghai R&D center, the company's local innovation now "leads global development." HOLD IT STEADY China's success in attracting foreign investment is underpinned by a deliberate policy push to keep foreign investment steady, including opening more fields to foreign firms and creating a more welcoming environment. The negative list for foreign investment has been steadily shortened, with all manufacturing restrictions eliminated in 2024. Pilot programs are also opening up services like value-added telecom and biotechnology. To build trust and cut red tape, a roundtable consultation system for foreign businesses was established. Since 2023, the Ministry of Commerce has held over 30 meetings, resolving more than 1,500 operational issues raised by foreign firms. Plans are in motion to expand these efforts. A revised catalogue of industries encouraged for foreign investment is in the works. The updated list will guide more foreign capital toward advanced manufacturing, modern services, high-tech, energy conservation, and environmental protection sectors, as well as into central, western and northeastern regions, according to the country's top economic planner. "As China continues to expand institutional opening up, foreign investment is expected to integrate more deeply into domestic innovation and supply chains, striking a new balance with growing emphasis on quality," Fan said.
The Cultural Development Fund (FDC) granted over MOP95 million in financial support to 1,140 cultural and artistic projects, marking a notable increase compared to the same period last year.

Funded activities included photography and painting exhibitions, opera and dance performances, as well as film festivals.

The funds financial backing rose 15.8% year-on-year, with 790 projects approved in the first quarter receiving MOP24 million.

In the second quarter, 350 projects were granted MOP71.5 million. This represents the highest level of support since the funds establishment in 2022, following the merger of the former Cultural Industries Fund and Cultural Fund.

According to public disclosures by the Public Assets Supervision Administration Bureau, the number of projects and funding amounts both grew compared to the previous year, when 893 projects received MOP82.5 million in the first half of 2024.

The supported initiatives covered a wide range of cultural and artistic fields, including visual arts exhibitions, music and dance performances, literary creation, intangible cultural heritage activities, and cinema festivals.

Key beneficiaries included Casa de Portugal, which received MOP187,000 for literary, musical, and theatrical projects; Somos!  Association for Communication in Portuguese Language, awarded MOP580,000 for visual arts activities; and CURB (Center for Architecture and Urbanism), granted MOP1.4 million for exhibitions and architectural photography competitions.

Other notable recipients were Art For All Society Macau (MOP1.1 million), dAs Entranhas Macau  Cultural Association (MOP615,000), Audio-Visual Cut Association (MOP 570,000), 10 Marias Cultural Association (MOP442,000), Armazem de Boi (MOP1.5 million), and the Institute of European Studies of Macau (MOP323,000).

The fund aims to support the development and exchange of cultural and artistic activities, cultural industry projects, and heritage preservation efforts.

In 2024, it approved 1,148 projects with a total allocation of MOP186 million, 71% of which was dedicated to culture and arts, with the remainder supporting cultural industries and heritage. Times Reporter

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A drug debt enforcer who smashed a living room window close to where a 10-week-old baby was lying has been jailed for 16 months.

Liam Maddison, 31, was armed with a machete and wearing a balaclava when he attacked a house in Sunderland in March, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

He had sent the occupant threatening messages after buying the man's 1,300 drugs debt, the court heard.

Maddison, of no fixed abode, admitted sending threatening messages, affray, criminal damage and possessing a bladed weapon.

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The victim had accrued the debt with dealers who sold it to Maddison to collect upon, prosecutor John Hobley said.

Maddison sent voice notes to the victim threatening to "do him in" and smash his windows, the court heard, with the man transferring 700 to Maddison.

'Terrifying for family'

The court heard he sent further threats demanding the remaining 600 before turning up at the man's home at about 10:00 GMT on 16 March.

He was wielding a machete and wearing a balaclava as he shouted for the man, who recognised Maddison from his voice and build, the court heard.

Maddison then smashed the living room window before fleeing when the victim begged him to stop as his 10-week-old son was in the room, Mr Hobley said.

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In a statement read to the court, the victim said he was left physically and emotionally shaken and in fear for his family while his partner, who was also at the house, was afraid to keep on living there.

In mitigation, Helen Towers said Maddison, a father of two young children, had not known a baby was inside the house and it now "fills him with shame".

Recorder Thomas Moran said it must have been "terrifying" for the victim and his family.

A restraining order banning Maddison from contacting his victim or going in the area of his home was made to last for 10 years.

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(NewsNation)  U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized his predecessor, Pete Buttigieg, for his handling of the Federal Aviation Administration under former President Joe Biden.

Duffy, who is scheduled to join NewsNations On Balance Wednesday night, accused Buttigieg of lowering the requirements to be considered a best-qualified air traffic control candidate on a new episode of the New York Posts Pod Force One.

They lowered the standard from 85% to 80% to be best-qualified under Buttigieg to get these people into the academy, Duffy said.

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Duffy proposes new line of sight regulations for commercial drones

Duffy claims this change ultimately led to a spike in dropout rates at the Federal Aviation Administration Academy.

In response, a spokesperson for Buttigieg told the New York Post, If [Duffy] had any proof to back up what he said, it seems like theyd provide it.

Buttigieg has previously spoken out against claims he changed the standards. In February, Buttigieg wrote on X, To be abundantly clear: we did not change the rigorous standard for becoming a certified air traffic controller. Those claiming otherwise are mistaken or lying. We did increase funding & training and grew the ATC workforce after years of declining numbers, including under Trump.

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United Airlines flight declares mayday shortly after takeoff

For months, the FAA has grappled with trying to address an air traffic controller staffing shortage amid a series of delays and devastating crashes. In August, the Federal Aviation Administration plans to hire nearly 9,000 air traffic controllers by 2028, but it likely wont solve its nationwide shortage of controllers outright.

The strain on the air traffic control system has been especially evident at New Jerseys Newark Liberty International Airport, which experienced delays and cancellations after several tech outages in May.

Earlier this year, Duffy announced increased plans to supercharge the air traffic control workforce. As part of this, starting salaries for air traffic controller students will increase by nearly 30%. He has also announced a 20% salary bonus for anyone eligible to retire but below the mandatory retirement age who decides to stay on.

When will flight delays be slashed?

During an interview with On Balance on Wednesday, Duffy asked the American people for grace as he looks to resolve the FAAs shortage of air traffic controllers.

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My hope is in the next year, theres some modification were gonna do with our air traffic control workforce, Duffy told NewsNation.

My hope is in the next year were gonna see marked improvements as you come into next summer within the air space, he added.

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Aug. 13A Sterling man has pleaded not guilty to charges in connection with possessing and intending to deliver 1.75 pounds of meth, for which a conviction could potentially put him in prison for decades.

Cody G. Henson, 30, is charged in Whiteside County with delivering more than 400 but less than 900 grams of meth, a Class X felony that carries a possible mandatory minimum prison sentence of 12 to 50 years and a fine of up to $300,000; methamphetamine trafficking, also a Class X felony; and possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

He pleaded not guilty to the three charges during his preliminary hearing Monday in Whiteside County court. He remains held in the Whiteside County Jail.

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Also charged in connection with Henson's case is Kelly Kisner, 40, whose town of residence is not listed in the case's court records. Charged with the same three offenses, she appeared in court Aug. 4 and was released from jail on pretrial release conditions. Her next court appearance is a preliminary hearing at 1:30 p.m. Sept. 8. She is demanding a speedy trial.

According to court records, the two were charged after they were pulled over during an Aug. 3 traffic stop near Lincoln Road and Rock Falls Road near Rock Falls. According to the prosecution's petition to deny Kisner's pretrial release, an Illinois State Police trooper was on routine patrol in the area when she saw a black Ford Mustang with expired Iowa registration. The trooper pulled the Mustang over, identifying Henson as the driver and Kisner as the front-seat passenger and owner of the car.

According to the petition, the trooper noticed two alcohol shooter bottles in the front cup holder, with Kisner admitting they were hers.

A Rock Falls Police Department K-9 arrived at the scene and conducted a free-air sniff, then alerted to the vehicle, according to the petition. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a glass pipe with white powdery residue, a shoe box under the driver's seat with a scale, several plastic bags, and two large bags of a white crystal-like substance that tested positive for methamphetamine, according to the petition. The substance weighed in at 795 grams, or 1.753 pounds.

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The trafficking charge alleges that the defendants brought the meth into the state for the purpose of delivering it.

Henson, who also appeared in court Aug 4, remains detained after his pretrial release in another case was revoked. His next court appearance is at 1:30 p.m. Sept. 24. He also is demanding a speedy trial, according to court records.
WHEATON, Ill.  Federal, state and local officials gathered in DuPage County on Wednesday morning to cut the ribbon on an all-new crisis recovery center.

The DuPage County Board and DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) will soon open the doors to what they are calling a first-of-its-kind facility designed to provide mental health crisis services to youth and adults.

The new center, located in Wheaton, will be able to serve up to 42 people at a time and about 15,000 people each year.

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The facility will be equipped with a staff of about 160 specialists for behavioral, mental health and substance use and will offer 24/7 support for individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis.

Officials say the goal of the new facility is to reduce unnecessary hospital and emergency room visits and reduce interactions with law enforcement that put a strain on public resources or are often not well-suited to address a behavioral health crisis.

Family members, first responders, or individuals will be able to bring those experiencing a crisis to the site, where they will be screened and cared for.

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In order to accommodate all patients, the facility is split into three units: youth, adult mental health, and adult substance use stabilization.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

The investment is a partnership between the county, state and federal grants.

Their estimated annual operating expenses of $7.5 million will be supported by direct billing, grant writing and funding, the DuPage County health department operating budgetand supplemental private fundraising.

The new facility is set to open to the public on Sept. 2.

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The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power lifted a "boil water" notice Tuesday afternoon for Granada Hills and Porter Ranch, ending a weeklong episode that saw residents' taps run dry or slow to a trickle.

The DWP urged residents to flush out all water pipes and appliances before using the water.

About 9,200 households in the west San Fernando Valley were affected by a water service outage that started last week after DWP workers discovered a faulty valve, according to the agency.

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The valve, which was installed in 1967 and located 20 feet underground, was stuck in a nearly closed position and could not be opened, which impeded the flow of water.

Reaching the valve was complicated by a nearby fiber-optic cable, a high-pressure gas line and an oil line, according to the DWP.

On Monday morning, the water flow resumed, but a boil water notice remained in place.

Crews weld a new valve to a water pipe over the weekend. Repairs were completed and the water for thousands of customers was found safe to drink. (Los Angeles Department of Water )

The DWP's chief executive and chief engineer, Janisse Quinones, thanked the public for their "cooperation and patience" in a statement Tuesday.

The agency said in a news release that those customers affected by the "boil water" notice would receive a $20 credit.

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The DWP has a long list of recommendations, including flushing out any stagnant water by running outside plumbing; running all indoor cold-water faucets for five minutes or until the water is clear and the temperature is constant; and draining hot water tanks to remove sediment and then running hot water faucets.

In addition, customers who have a water dispenser on their refrigerator should flush the device for five minutes; make and discard three batches of ice cubes and clean the ice bin with a disinfectant.

They should also clean and disinfect aerators and screens on faucets, shower heads and fixtures; run empty dishwashers and washing machines once on the rinse cycle; replace all filters and reset all water devices from "bypass mode"; replace pre-filters for reverse osmosis units; and run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.



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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR)  A 17-year-old senior at Blacksburg High School has taken a significant step toward earning his Eagle Scout rank by designing and building a secure donation drop-off box for the local YMCA thrift store.

The Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement in the Scouts BSA program, representing leadership, service, and dedication to Scouting values.

Sam Anderson, who has been involved in Scouting since first grade, said he chose this project to address a community need.

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My family and I have occasionally donated to the Y, Sam said. But I noticed that donations could only be made during certain hours. After discussing the issue with Ron Ovelgoener, I decided to build a donation box that would allow people to donate items anytime, securely and safely.

Photo courtesy of the YMCA at Virginia Tech

The YMCA at Virginia Tech states that the new donation box offers weather protection and security, enabling the YMCA to collect more items for its thrift store while making the donation process more convenient for the community.

I spent a lot of time figuring out how to build the box, what materials to use, and how to raise funds, said Sam. I learned how to use various tools and how to make the design stronger and more weatherproof. Im proud of the work Ive done and the final product.

Photo courtesy of the YMCA at Virginia Tech

Through this project, Sam gained hands-on experience in carpentry, design, and project planning.

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Ron Ovelgoener, Director of Thrift Shop Operations and Facilities at the YMCA, praised Sams efforts, saying, Wed like to thank Samuel for his commitment of service to the Y and its donors. We appreciate his hard work and the good-looking final product for the Y.

Photo courtesy of the YMCA at Virginia Tech

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  The City of East Lansing is looking to fill a vacancy on the East Lansing Independent Police Oversight Commission, they announced Tuesday.

The commission is made up of 11 members serving three-year terms, who work to increase the publics trust in the police department, according to the city. The ELIPOC also works to increase community input on police department policies, practices, and procedures.

They also work to review complaints against police officers or the department in an impartial and fair way. According to the city the commission prioritizes addressing racial inequities in policing and use of force by officers on the job.

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East Lansing residents interested in applying for a vacancy may do so by visiting this link.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
EAST LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  The City of East Lansing will continue as a sanctuary city despite possible consequences from the Trump administration.

The United States Department of Justice identified East Lansing as one of 18 sanctuary cities that that it claims are obstructing the enforcement of immigration laws.

At the end of April, the Trump administration released an executive order threatening to take away federal funding from sanctuary cities. The administration said it will take action if sanctuary policies are not changed. East Lansing City Council Member, Mark Meadows said the city is changing nothing.

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We dont plan on changing any of our policies with regard to this, said Meadows.

(WLNS)

East Lansing became a sanctuary city in 2023 when they passed a resolution that, among other policies, states that the citys officials and law enforcement will not take any direct action against someone based solely on their immigration status.

The resolution also said city officials and law enforcement will not join federal agents in enforcing immigration law, but can collaborate with federal immigration enforcement in situations that involve criminal activity and protecting the public.

U.S. Attorney General, Pam Bondi, said sanctuary city policies put American citizens at risk, which Meadow disagrees with.

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Completely false, said Meadows.

The council member said that he doesnt know what exactly the consequences will be for continuing on as a sanctuary city, but he is expecting some sort of punishment to come their way.

This is a developing story. 6 News will bring you updates as they come.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
Not caring about the U.S. Constitution is a regular refrain for President Donald Trump, who now wants to exclude undocumented people from the 2030 census count  a nonstarter as much else is in this bizarro world we now inhabit, promulgated via a screed on his Truth Social platform  is both a terrible idea and certainly a rehash.

Trump attempted something similar during his first term in office as the 2020 census closed in, deciding to suddenly include a citizenship question in the count, a move promptly blocked by the courts.

Now Trumps trying to go whole hog and exclude the undocumented altogether, in doing so going against the plain language of the Constitution, which unambiguously mandates the count of the whole number of persons in each state.

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The chief executive certainly seems to care less about the letter of the law and the orders of judges this time around, though these will still slap him down. Its worth noting, though, that even if and when a judge makes the easiest ruling of a career and strikes down any directive to exclude from the census anyone based on citizenship or immigration status, thats not necessarily mission accomplished.

Trump and Stephen Millers all-out campaign of shock and awe and terror against immigrants around the country is designed at least in part to create an environment of fear and concern that will discourage people from participating in all facets of civic and public life, including the mandated decennial count.

The Census Bureau itself found that it probably failed to count up to millions of noncitizens, largely because many declined to participate out of a fear that it would put them on the administrations radar and target list. So Trump was able to accomplish some of his aims, even without the directive technically being in place, and that was in an environment less hostile than now.

New York infamously lost a House seat because it came up just 89 people short in the 2020 count, which is almost certainly a partial result of Trumps meddling last time around. That extra seat could have made a real difference in a House of Representatives that is so narrowly controlled by the GOP, which itself seems to understand itself as a mere arm of the Trump administration.

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Neither Trump, nor his top echelon of grifters and ideologues are going to be personally conducting the census count, though. That is left to a small army of temporary public servants overseen by career officials within the Census Bureau, and these folks will hopefully recall that their responsibility is to this important constitutional mandate and not to Trump.

The one-time real estate promoter is fully incapable of seeing anything except in terms of monetary or political gain, and probably sees an attempt to exclude the undocumented from the census as good red meat for the base.

However, the census guides everything in the United States  not just apportionment and representation in the Congress and the Electoral College, but disaster planning, disease preparedness, allocation of federal resources, and all manner of private-sector uses like demographic data for business development and so on.

Ironically, huge chunks of those that would go uncounted under Trumps illegal decree would be in the red states like Florida and Texas, which Trump claims to want to support. The whole idea is pointless, damaging and unconstitutional.

_____
Editors note: This editorial originally ran in fellow CNHI paper the North Andover Eagle-Tribune.

Nursing homes have already been ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the Trump administration and its Republican allies appear ready to deliver a killing blow to the beleaguered industry.

And make no mistake: More elderly Americans, especially the most vulnerable among us, will be put at risk.

They spent their entire life savings just to get to the point where theyre on Medicaid, and now theyre worried that those Medicaid funds will be cut. What do you do then? said U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Salem.

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The Trump administration and Republicans in Congress say they have no plans to cut Medicaid or Medicare.

Dont be fooled by semantics.

The so-called Big, Beautiful Bill would cut more than $1 trillion from health programs over the next decade, and is expected to knock more than 10 million people off Medicaid, according to the Center for Medicare Advocacy.

Nursing home care is a mandatory (Medicaid) benefit, David Grabowski, professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School, told PBS News. But yet theres still ways that they could potentially limit Medicaid spending there, and its either in price or quantity.

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The program already costs nursing homes money. A federal study released last year found that in 2019, the average per-day nursing home costs for the average Medicaid recipient totaled $253. Medicaid reimbursed only $198 of those costs.

Nursing homes and other facilities already face steep staffing challenges. A sea of nurses, certified nurse assistants and health aides left during and after the pandemic, and the pay among those professions is still too low to attract a pool of applicants.

Many jobs have traditionally been filled by immigrants, but Trumps immigration crackdown has scared those workers away.

It is a grim scene.

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Nursing homes that cant pay their staff will have to reduce access, and many will end up closing, according to Clif Porter, president and CEO of the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living.

Those that stay open will likely have to spend less time per patient.

There will be perhaps a few more falls, a few more bed sores, said Vincent Mor, a professor of health services, policy and practice at Brown Universitys School of Public Health. But what theres going to be a lot more of is failure to thrive.

Its not too late to reverse course. It will, however, require some courage among the rank and file of the GOP.

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Youd find it amazing how many Republicans privately regret this, privately know they did the wrong thing, Moulton said. Yet they have absolutely no courage to just do the right thing for the people they represent.

Now is the time to find that courage.
With just a month remaining until the eighth Legislative Assembly direct and indirect elections on September 14, the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election (CAEAL) reported yesterday that voters are showing increasing interest in this years election.

Beginning on August 5, voters have been able to find out their polling locations for the September 14 elections using various methods, such as the Macao One Account, the Legislative Assembly Election website, and the electoral hotline.

Seng Ioi Man, the president of the CAEAL, stated during a press briefing after yesterday mornings closed meeting that over 116,000 inquiries were made in just one week, indicating that voters are highly interested in obtaining voting information [] In particular, voters are seeking information specifically related to the voting day on September 14.

According to the CAEAL, voting notices will also be mailed to ensure that all voters are informed about their polling locations.

On election day, 37 polling locations across Macau will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The CAEAL advises voters to bring their physical ID cards to the designated polling stations and present them to staff for verification. Once verified, voters will receive their ballots.

Voters must enter the voting booth and use the designated stamp to mark their preferred candidate in the corresponding blue square before depositing their ballot into the ballot box.

The CAEAL also emphasized the importance of maintaining voting confidentiality.

According to election law, voters must not disclose their voting intentions to others in the designated area outside the polling station, nor are they allowed to use mobile phones or other devices to photograph ballots. Noncompliance may result in a violation of election laws.

According to yesterdays press briefing, the CAEAL has produced two videos aimed at helping voters better understand how the voting process works and the significance of maintaining confidentiality while voting.

These videos will be made available on multiple platforms, including the election and Government Information Bureau (GCS) websites, as well as social media. Furthermore, they will be aired on public broadcaster TDM to reach a larger audience and inform more voters.

Election campaign starts August 30

The Official Gazette (BO) published last week the chief executives decision regarding the broadcast times for election campaigns of each candidate list in the direct and indirect elections for the new term of the Legislative Assembly.

Each candidate list will be broadcast 33 times on the Chinese-language channel of TDM television, an increase of 12 times compared to the previous election.

The Portuguese-language channel will feature 25 broadcasts, an increase of nine times. Each broadcast on both channels will last one minute and 30 seconds.

On the radio, the Chinese-language channel will have 54 broadcasts, up 21 times from the last election, while the Portuguese-language channel will have 36 broadcasts, an increase of 15 times. Each radio broadcast will last one minute.

The final broadcasts on all channels will occur on September 12.

The CAEAL announced that all candidate lists have been allocated time slots for campaign publicity through a lottery draw, along with 18 public venues for campaign activities.

The allocation of broadcast time was determined after careful consideration of costs and the publicity needs of each group, Seng emphasized, urging all candidate lists to effectively plan and utilize the official channels and their own resources to promote their platforms and vision for serving Macau to voters. With less than 20 days remaining before the campaign period begins, he stressed the importance of preparing for the 14-day election campaign effectively.

The CAEAL reaffirmed that no form of publicity should take place outside the designated election campaign period. In response to media questions about whether the CAEAL monitoring groups overseas activities involved illegal publicity, the president emphasized that the Legislative Assembly Election Law applies both locally and abroad.

Seng added that enforcement authorities will closely monitor potential violations, whether they occur locally or across borders, and will enforce the law through mechanisms such as police cooperation.

Meanwhile, the CAEAL stated that, per election law, each candidate list can appoint one principal representative and one alternate representative at each polling station to monitor voting activities. These representatives must be eligible voters and can only represent one candidate list at a specific polling station while exercising their rights.

Authorized representatives of the candidate lists must submit the list of station representatives to the CAEAL between this Saturday and August 25.

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Editors note: This editorial originally ran in fellow CNHI paper the Niagara Gazette.

So what now?

Thats the question facing tourism businesses across Western New York, including those right here in Niagara County, as they come to grips with our new reality: Canadians arent coming here like they have in the past and arent likely to return for at least the foreseeable future.

Top Democratic leaders  Gov. Kathy Hochul and U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer  paid visits to Niagara County this week to emphasize the point.

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While they were heavy on criticism of President Donald Trump and his supporters, they were light on suggestions for what to do now to help businesses, hotels and attractions in Western New York who are dealing with the consequences of Trumps Canadian rhetoric and cross-border policies.

Lets be clear: The criticism of Trump is warranted.

Like the fictitious American president played for laughs by Alan Alda in the Michael Moore movie Canadian Bacon, he ignited a war nobody wanted with our neighbor to the north by suggesting Canada should become our 51st state.

He has since doubled down by placing higher tariffs on Canadian goods.

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Theres no question that the presidents blustering hurt our relationship with a neighbor weve shared a peaceful border with for decades or that the fractured relationship has had a negative impact on our regions economy.

Still, we cant help but wonder what more political finger-pointing accomplishes.

Like it or not, Trump has more than three years left on his current term.

Barring an about-face, his view and stance on Canada appear unlikely to change.

Republican allies have demonstrated little opposition to whatever it is Trump wants, so wed be surprised if any of them heeded Schumers call to support a measure to eliminate tariffs on Canada that he said he intends to introduce when the Senate reconvenes.

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For our own sake, we must face reality and start talking about ways to adjust our present course so we dont end up in this same situation come tourism season 2026.

This involves getting a better understanding of just how effective our tourism promotional efforts are now.

The regional tourism promotional group Visit Buffalo Niagara launched a Buffalo Loves Canada campaign on July 1, Canada Day.

Weeks later, does anybody know if it had any impact or what it cost?

How effective could it have been, considering places like Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, Aquarium of Niagara, Artpark and others all experienced double-digit drops in Canadian customers so far this year?

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So what else can we do? Were no experts.

We do, however, welcome some pointed discussions and some real conversations. Sad as it is to say, it is now the first week of August.

Theres just under four weeks left until Labor Day, the traditional end to the traditional tourist season. Its too early to chalk up the 2025 tourism season as a total loss. Its never too early to start talking about next year, not when market forces have clearly shifted and its unclear when or if they will ever swing back. Shouldnt we prepare for the possibility that proud Canadians will continue to stay home in droves next year?

While it may feel good to blame the president, we have no choice but to find ways to help clean up the mess he helped create.

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Like the pause during COVID-19, this should be looked upon locally as an opportunity to consider and examine what it is weve been doing and to determine what should change to ensure we start doing it better in terms of tourism and development.

Of course, we welcome high-ranking leaders like Schumer and Hochul to take part, to join in on the process and make return visits as they see fit. Given all of our many problems in the Falls and in Buffalo and beyond, we think our region would be better served with less political rhetoric, less complaining and more of a solutions-based approach.
Editors note: The print edition of this editorial misidentified the biologist who invented the manatee scar charts.

Earlier this year, the state of Florida showed up in court, demanding an acknowledgment that it has no duty under federal law to defend manatees. And now state environmental officials are on their way to appeals court, repeating that request in increasingly urgent tones.

You read that right: Florida officials believe they dont have to follow the federal Endangered Species Act when it comes to protecting manatees. And having argued that once  only to be spanked with a stern ruling by Orlando-based U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza  they are at it again, taking their complaints to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Manatees and Floridians alike deserve better. The beloved, ungainly mammals have been a signal species in Floridas fight against environmental degradation. The danger to their survival is literally written on their hides: Blue Spring biologist Wayne Hartley has drawn and updated hundreds of charts that identify manatees based on the gouges across their broad backs and missing chunks of flipper (using a method invented by another scientist, Everglades biologistJoe Moore). They are scars left on manatees by propellers of fast-moving boats  and nearly every living manatee has at least a few. Now, those white scars combine with sagging skin and caved-in bodies of manatees starving to death in waters that once offered them abundant feasts.

As important as manatees are to Floridians, the perils of their disappearance go far beyond the lost manatees crushed by boats, killed by infections from dirty water or wasting away for a lack of suitable food. Like many endangered and threatened species across the nation, manatees fates are intimately tied to the health of key water bodies  in this case, the Indian River Lagoon, which stretches along Floridas east coast from Martin County north to Volusia County. The lagoon is considered one of the most diverse estuaries in the nation, an abundant breeding ground for fish, birds and aquatic plants.

But the seagrass beds that anchor its ecosystem are dying  choked and poisoned by water grown cloudy with runoff from busy roads, cow pastures and septic tanks leaching human waste. The manatees that rely on the seagrass for food are, in turn, starving  dying at such a high rate that state scientists have given up on attempts to necropsy most of the emaciated corpses.

Historically, the state has always worked hand in hand with the federal government to protect manatees. But as the plight of the lagoon worsened, attempts to clean it up seemed to paradoxically slow down. Gov. Ron DeSantis, who once campaigned on the banks of the lagoon with promises to address water quality with a warriors fervor, has seemed decreasingly enthused by cleanup projects, vetoing several over the past six and half years.

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To his credit, however, DeSantis recently backtracked to his earlier ways: Hes spent the past summer highlighting cleanup projects including a press conference Monday, which celebrated the opening of a restoration structure in Brevard County that will filter billions of gallons of water as it flows from the St. Johns River to the lagoon.

But under both DeSantis and his predecessor Rick Scott, funding for water projects and other cleanup activities has lagged  as the states key environmental enforcement agencies, including the DEP and five water-management districts, saw their power seep away.

Last year, a Seminole County-based group, Bear Warriors Inc., went to court. They argued that the state was doing such a poor job of manatee management and environmental cleanup that it should be required to apply to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for an incidental take permit  tantamount to an official acknowledgement that state activities (or lack thereof) are leading to increased manatee deaths. In particular, the group objected to state-sanctioned discharge of treated sewage and runoff into the lagoon, raising nitrogen levels and sparking blooms of noxious algae.

It was a clever argument, but it would not have prevailed if Bear Warriors hadnt brought solid evidence. They offered reams of data proving that the state had allowed water quality in the Indian River Lagoon to degrade, and that the state could have done a better job of cleanup if it only followed its own plans for lagoon restoration.

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They also cited a close-to-home precedent: A 1995 ruling that required Volusia County to seek an incidental take permit because it permitted cars to drive on beaches where four species of imperiled sea turtles nested.

Judge Mendoza was convinced. And his ruling could serve as a model nationwide, tying a states failure to protect rivers, forests, streams, deserts, prairies and other natural systems to the deaths of beloved, endangered species that call those places home.

In this case, Florida leaders should have accepted Mendozas ruling, and put more funding into this years budget as earnest money toward a commitment to step up efforts to restore the lagoon. They had time  the state budget was approved months after Mendozas April ruling. In this case, taking an L would have been a win for manatees and all the other species that call the lagoon home  and for the Floridians who want to see the states natural treasures protected and preserved.

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
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Education Secretary Linda McMahon made some visits to central Arkansas schools as students head back to school.

Sanders and McMahon toured Don R. Roberts Elementary School in Little Rock before hosting a roundtable discussion on Tuesday morning. Sen. Tom Cotton was also present for the discussion.

New Arkansas laws to know ahead of the first day of school

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Later in the day, the group continued the tour at the Saline County Career & Technical Campus in Benton.

Officials said the Arkansas visit is part of the departments Returning Education to the States tour. The tour featured state-by-state stops for McMahon to hear from students, teachers and school leaders about education models and reforms.

KARK 4 News Caroline Derby also got an exclusive interview with McMahon and Sanders discussing changes to the Department of Education and if the secretary and governor felt there would be negative impacts from 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 KARK.
(FOX40.COM)  A pedestrian was injured and a Northern California business sustained damage after an elderly Jeep driver crashed into them, according to the Galt Police Department.

 Video Above: What to do if you witness a crash

On Tuesday afternoon, GPD officers responded to a report of a vehicle collision involving a structure and a pedestrian at CVS Pharmacy, located at 1063 C Street. When officers arrived at the scene, they determined that an 81-year-old woman, the sole occupant of a Jeep Cherokee, attempted to park in a space in front of the business.

Galt police said an 81-year-old woman accidentally crashed into a CVS Pharmacy and a pedestrian on August 12, 2025./Galt Police Department

Claires, Icing on the verge of closing more than 1,000 US stores amid bankruptcy

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While parking, GPD said the woman inadvertently accelerated, causing the vehicle to drive up onto the sidewalk in front the business, striking a pedestrian walking on the sidewalk. The driver also collided with a metal handrail and windows of the business.

Both the driver and the pedestrian were treated for injuries at the scene by Cosumnes Fire personnel. No other injuries were reported by any customers inside of the business.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Cecilia De Astis died at the scene

A woman in Italy has been knocked down and killed by a stolen car allegedly driven by a group of young children, the oldest of whom was 13.

The children  a girl of 11, two 12-year-olds and the 13-year-old, who was driving  allegedly stole the car on the outskirts of Milan and took it for a joyride.

The 13-year-old boy who was allegedly at the wheel lost control of the vehicle and it ploughed into Cecilia De Astis, a widowed grandmother aged 71, who was flung several yards across the ground.

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The children, reportedly Roma gypsies who were living in a makeshift camp in the area, fled the scene but were later arrested.

Medics rushed to the scene and performed CPR on Mrs De Astis but were unable to save her.

The French-registered Citroen was owned by some French tourists who were on holiday in Milan and had reported the theft to the police.

The case has caused fury and incomprehension in Italy, with politicians asking why the children were free to roam and not under the supervision of their parents.

The car is thought to be have stolen on the outskirts of Milan - Claudio Furlan/Shutterstock

The minors are reportedly of Bosnian gypsy origin but were all born in Italy.

They cannot be charged because under Italian law criminal liability only starts at the age of 14.

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The mother of one of the children, who did not want to be named, told La Repubblica newspaper: I have been crying since dawn, not just for my son but also for the lady. What can I say?

The country has a large Roma population  many were born in Italy but others have moved from Bulgaria, Romania and other parts of Eastern Europe.

The Roma families had been living in the camp, in the Gratosoglio neighbourhood on the southern outskirts of the city, for around seven months, she said.

We move around a lot, before coming here we were in Bologna, and before that Rome. My husband is in jail, I live here in the camp with the children. There are only women and children here, no men.

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The car was allegedly stolen on Monday night.

My son and the others came home late that night. We asked them what they had been doing. We were worried because we saw police cars passing back and forth. But the kids said nothing to begin with. Then they suddenly started crying. They told us of the accident, the tragedy, of what had happened. I dont know what to say, what to think. They are not adults, they are just kids.

The family of Mrs De Astis said they were living through a nightmare.

The children are thought to hail from the Roma camp in Via Selvanesco - Claudio Furlan/Shutterstock

Filippo Di Terlizzi, her son, said the Gratosoglio neighbourhood had long suffered from law-and-order problems but that the way in which his mother died, struck by a car while walking along a pavement, was absurd.

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This is not about the nationality of the kids. We dont want a witch hunt. But we do need to act to ensure security for citizens, he said.

Matteo Salvini, the Italian deputy prime minister, called for the illegal settlement of caravans and camper vans to be demolished.

The Roma camp should be cleared immediately, then razed to the ground. Pseudo parents should be arrested and parental rights should be revoked, said Mr Salvini, who is the head of the hard-Right League party, a member of Giorgia Melonis coalition.

Attilio Fontana, a member of the League and the governor of Lombardy, the region which encompasses Milan, said: It was not an accident but the fruit of a chain of lawlessness, arrogance and impunity that can no longer be tolerated.

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Residents accused the Roma community of stealing property and leaving rubbish around the plot of land where they are camped.

Beppe Sala, the centre-Left mayor of Milan, said it was shameful for politicians to score points from the death of a person in such terrible circumstances.

The case is to be dealt with by a tribunal for minors.

The court could order the children to be taken into care. Alternatively, it might prosecute their parents for failing to properly care for them.

Emma Avezzu, a prosecutor in a court for minors, said: We cannot tolerate parents who fail to send their children to school, who do not provide them with a decent environment in which to grow up.

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Washington's locally elected government is under attack from President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans. But the capital city's self-proclaimed "warrior on the Hill" is nowhere to be seen on the front lines.

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbias nonvoting House delegate, issued a written statement Monday after Trump seized control of the city's police force and moved to send in National Guard troops, calling it "counterproductive," a "historic assault on D.C. home rule" and "more evidence of the urgent need to pass my D.C. statehood bill."

But Norton  who has represented the city in the House since 1991  has not been seen in public or otherwise interacted with the media since, even as other elected Democrats stepped forward to defend Washingtons autonomy against Trump's aggressive new actions.

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Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser held an hourlong news conference Monday afternoon in which she was flanked by city public safety officials, but not Norton. Her name was also missing from a joint statement released by members of Congress representing Washington's suburbs that slammed the police takeover as a soft launch of authoritarianism. Several of those lawmakers have since given interviews to POLITICO and other outlets.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Tuesday afternoon he had yet to speak to Norton about a response to Trump's moves, which were announced Monday morning. The New York Democrat said he hoped to have that conversation later in the day.

Norton did not accept an interview request made through a spokesperson, who declined to identify any other interviews or public appearances she has made since Trump escalated his threats against the city late last week.

The spokesperson, Sharon Eliza Nichols, said in a statement that Norton has been working diligently with Mayor Bowser, city officials and her colleagues discussing how to support the Districts response and prevent further federal incursions against D.C.'s right to handle its own affairs.

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Congresswoman Norton has proven her dedication to the people of D.C., the statement continued. She understands the unprecedented circumstances the District is in, and her top priority is to ensure that home rule and D.C. residents are protected."

Nortons back-seat response to the most serious federal threat to the city's government in 30 years is out of step with her one-time reputation as a fierce defender of local prerogatives in the face of meddling by federal authorities. Her campaign website still promotes the warrior moniker she has used for decades to reflect her often fiery battles with Republicans.

But she is facing mounting questions about her plans to seek a 19th term next year as fellow Democrats privately voice concerns about her fading presence in the House. She has twice told reporters she intends to run again in 2026, but in both instances her staff subsequently said she is undecided.

A campaign spokesperson did not respond to a request for an update on her reelection plans.

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A person granted anonymity to describe Norton's thinking said her low-key approach to the joint statement was in keeping with the more conciliatory approach Bowser and other city officials have taken with Trump in his second term. Norton, the person said, does not want to provoke Trump into escalating his attacks on the D.C. government.

Bowser, however, has appeared on camera multiple times since Trumps announcement to take questions and defend the citys public safety efforts, as have some D.C. Council members.

The person said Norton wasnt invited or notified by the mayors office about Bowser's news conference. Another person granted anonymity to comment on the sensitive situation said it was not standard practice to invite federal officials such as Norton to mayoral news conferences. The mayors office declined to comment.

Norton was invited to join the joint statement from the Washington-area House delegation but ultimately did not sign on for strategic reasons, the person said.

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Behind the scenes, Norton has been involved in marshalling a response to Trump's actions beyond her Monday statement. Nichols said she has been actively reaching out to civic associations and other groups of D.C. residents and helped organize a Monday evening conference call with Bowser and members of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Norton helped open the conversation, according to four people granted anonymity to discuss the private call, where the lawmakers discussed recent steps taken by the city to address crime.

The CBC occupies a special place in the fight for D.C. voting rights and political autonomy. The group played a key role in securing passage of the Home Rule Act in 1973, creating the city's locally elected government  one of the caucuss first major legislative victories following its founding in 1969.

CBC Chair Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) said in a Tuesday statement that the group will "continue fighting to protect D.C.s right to self-governance and we urge all Americans to recognize this for what it is: a test run for broader authoritarian overreach."

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"The stakes are high not just for Washington, D.C., but for the future of democracy in every corner of this country, Clarke continued.

Most elected Democrats are loath to publicly criticize Norton given her long record of fighting for the city  including during the mid-1990s, when Congress imposed a financial control board to manage most city affairs. Norton was instrumental in pushing through legislation that recalibrated the city's relationship with Congress and is widely seen as setting the stage for its economic rebirth and population growth over the following two decades.

Many also believe that Trump would have gone after the District regardless of what its elected officials said or did in the lead-up to his announcements Monday. But others contend that, without an actual vote in Congress, the D.C. delegate's foremost responsibility is to rally support for the city and make the case for its autonomy to the American public.

Kinney Zalesne, a former DNC official who is running against Norton, said in a Tuesday interview that "there's an opportunity here for the D.C. delegate to be a loud and consistent and powerful and unrelenting voice for D.C. to Congress, to the administration and to the rest of the nation.

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"One or two statements" did not meet that standard, she said: We need to tell the truth about this federal overreach  that it's unnecessary, inappropriate and potentially illegal.

Norton's Democratic colleagues on Capitol Hill, meanwhile, voiced support  even as some said they had not spoken to her amid this moment of crisis.

I'm going to continue to support her and D.C., because many of my constituents work in D.C., said Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, who represents a district in the Virginia suburbs. I know people have brought up the issue of her ability to serve.  I haven't had a problem serving with her.

Jeffries, speaking to reporters Tuesday in Illinois, said "I have not had a conversation with Delegate Norton as of yet, but have been in communication with Mayor Bowser [and] indicated that we are going to strongly support her efforts to defend the sovereignty and integrity of the District of Columbia."

"I look forward to connecting with her at some point later on today," he added later.

Shia Kapos contributed to this report from Springfield, Illinois.
The Brief

Tuesday was Election Day for tens of thousands of people in Minnesota, but voter turnout was very low.

People in Minnesota House District 34B had the chance to pick the DFL candidate who would be expected to win assassinated Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman's seat in November.

One voter told us he forgot today was the day of the primary. Election officials expected about 10% turnout. The state's turnout in November 2024 was 76%.

BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (FOX 9) - Election Day came Tuesday for tens of thousands of people in Minnesota today, but voters hit the polls in small numbers.

Empty election

Do they know?

Even the race to replace assassinated DFL leader and Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman didnt draw a big crowd.

FOX 9 checked St. Paul, where theres an actual city council election, and in Brooklyn Park at the spot where the Hortmans wouldve voted, and every polling place was steady and slow.

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But election officials say thats more or less the expectation for an August election.

Important election

To vote or not to vote

Voters 100 and 101 of the day at the Riverview Early Childhood Center are former neighbors of the woman whose seat theyre voting to fill.

"We thought it was important to vote to fill Melissas seat," said Brooklyn Park resident Bob Anderson.

He and his wife were fairly lonely at the polls and, just a couple of miles away, a potential voter may have revealed why.

"Im a Melissa Hortman fan and a strong Democrat, so I know who I would vote for regardless of which of the three," Vukmanich said.

Slow trickle

Typical for August

Election officials expect around 10% voter turnout for the primary and maybe twice as much in November.

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It was just a little busier in the race to elect a new St. Paul city council member for Ward 4.

"It's really been steady," said Clara Rainer, a head election judge in Ramsey County. "Almost the whole day we've had at least a couple voters in."

The slow trickle of voters is normal for an August election.

Brooklyn Park city clerk Damon Montero said they had a 7.3% turnout in their last August primary.

But its a stark contrast from nine months ago when 76% of Minnesotas eligible voters cast ballots in the presidential race.

"The last election we were here in November and where we're standing right now there were lines basically out the door," said Raineri.
The Brief

An electrical worker was shocked and killed Tuesday afternoon in Seminole.

Two other people were shocked.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is investigating.

SEMINOLE, Fla. - An electrical worker was killed Tuesday afternoon in Seminole. Two other people were shocked.

What we know

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office responded to 8675 Park Boulevard North around 1:54 p.m. for reports of an electrical hazard call.

When rescue crews arrived, they found one person dead and two others were taken to the hospital.

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The investigation is ongoing, according to PCSO.

What they're saying

Duke Energy issued a statement shortly after the incident:

"We are saddened by the tragic incident that happened today in Pinellas County involving Duke Energy contractors. Our hearts go out to them, their family, communities and co-workers. The safety of our employees, contractors and customers is the highest priority at Duke Energy. There are approximately 14,000 customers without power in the Park Blvd. North area. We are currently working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible and are investigating the incident to learn more."

What we don't know

The conditions of the two other people who were shocked are unknown.

The Source

Information for this story was provided by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office and Duke Energy.
Elon Musk has accused Apple of unfairly favoring ChatGPT on its App Store and threatened legal action, triggering a fiery exchange with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman on Tuesday.

"Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation," Musk said in a post on his social media network X on Monday, without providing evidence to back his claim.

"xAI will take immediate legal action," he said, referring to his own artificial intelligence company.

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X users responded by pointing out that China's DeepSeek AI hit the top spot in the App Store early this year, and Perplexity AI recently ranked number one in the App Store in India.

DeepSeek and Perplexity compete with OpenAI and Musk's startup xAI.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman called the accusation "remarkable" in a response on X on Tuesday, adding that Musk was alleged to "manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like."

Musk then called Altman a "liar" in a heated exchange, prompting the OpenAI boss to ask whether Musk would sign a sworn legal statement declaring that he had never ordered changes to the X algorithm to harm competitors or help his own companies.

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OpenAI and xAI both released new versions of their AI assistants, ChatGPT and Grok, in the past week.

App Store rankings listed ChatGPT as the top free iPhone app on Tuesday, with Grok in fifth place.

Apple did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

Factors going into App Store rankings include user engagement, reviews and the number of downloads.

- AI wars -

OpenAI and Apple announced an alliance in June last year to enhance iPhones and other devices with ChatGPT features.

ChatGPT-5 rolled out free to the nearly 700 million people who use it weekly, OpenAI said in a briefing with journalists last week.

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Tech industry rivals Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft and xAI have been pouring billions of dollars into artificial intelligence since the blockbuster launch of the first version of ChatGPT in late 2022.

Chinese startup DeepSeek shook up the AI sector early this year with a model that delivers high performance using less costly chips.

OpenAI filed counterclaims against multi-billionaire Musk in April, accusing its former co-founder of waging a "relentless campaign" to damage the organization after it achieved success without him.

OpenAI alleged in legal documents filed at the time in the northern California federal court that Musk became hostile toward the company after abandoning it years before its breakthrough achievements with ChatGPT.

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The lawsuit was another round in a bitter feud between the generative AI (genAI) start-up and the world's richest person, who accused OpenAI of betraying its founding mission in a lawsuit last year.

OpenAI alleged in its countersuit that Musk "made it his project to take down OpenAI, and to build a direct competitor that would seize the technological lead -- not for humanity but for Elon Musk."

Musk founded his own genAI startup, xAI, in 2023 to compete with OpenAI and the other major AI players.

bur-mjw/abs/pbt
DUPLIN COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT)  An Eastern North Carolina man was sentenced to a minimum of 20 years to a maximum of 29 years in prison Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025.

Joseph Sanderson was convicted of first degree rape and felony first degree statutory sex offense.

Sanderson will also have to register for life as a sex offender and will be placed on GPS monitoring upon 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 WNCT.
Efforts to promote early intervention for developmental dyslexia and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are gaining momentum in Macau as parental awareness grows and demand for pediatric services increases.

However, experts and recent reports emphasize ongoing challenges in securing timely diagnosis and treatment.

Nair Cardoso, director of Saint Joseph International Nursery (CISJ), told the Times that while progress has been made at their nursery, significant obstacles remain throughout the sector.

NDDs  including intellectual disabilities, speech and language impairments, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)  affect approximately 15% of children and adolescents worldwide, according to recent analyses.

Meanwhile, a 2022 systematic review by Yang et al. found that developmental dyslexia affects about 7.1% of children aged 6 to 13 globally.

These conditions often cause considerable difficulties in cognition, communication, and motor skills. Early intervention can be transformative, enabling many children to catch up with their peers.

Despite this, accessing government early treatment services in Macau remains a challenge.

Reports indicate that evaluation and enrollment wait times range from six months to a year, while private options are often too expensive for many families.

Cardoso voiced concern that some families delay seeking help for their childrens developmental challenges.

Many families may still be unaware of how early signs of developmental delays can appear and might hesitate to seek help before their children turn three. However, emerging research shows that intervention can  and should  begin as early as 18 months, she explained to the Times.

Emphasizing the need for greater collaboration in addressing developmental delays, she added, In my opinion, pediatricians in Macau should take a more proactive approach by seeking referrals from teachers when necessary. Social welfare programs are providing valuable opportunities for nurseries to participate in courses and seminars to enhance their understanding and practices in early childhood development.

Highlighting the importance of hands-on learning, the CISJ director also noted, Active engagement through sensory exploration is foundational for young children, as it not only fosters cognitive development but also supports emotional well-being.

Cardoso noted that restrictions on outdoor activities during the pandemic and increased screen time have compounded these challenges, depriving children of crucial sensory experiences essential for healthy brain development.

Many children are missing out on essential sensory experiences during their early years. Passive exploration through devices and TVs can detract from hands-on activities that stimulate the senses, she said.

Sensory play helps build key neural pathways and promotes joyful learning and creativity. Engaging children in tactile activities leads to better developmental outcomes.

She also pointed out that outdoor restrictions have made both children and parents reluctant to engage in outdoor play, further limiting important physical and sensory activity.

In response to these challenges, CISJ has partnered with social welfare programs to strengthen training for nursery staff, focusing on social-emotional development and special educational needs.

The nursery director concluded by highlighting the importance of a coordinated effort to guarantee that children receive timely support.

I believe that fostering open communication and a collaborative approach among educators, healthcare professionals, and families is paramount in championing early intervention and promoting a positive developmental trajectory for young children.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  An Enon resident was recently recognized for helping save the life of another.

On July 11, A person crashed into a pond at Spring Lake Circle.

Todd McKee was there just in time and took what the village says was fast action that ultimately saved the persons life.

For his efforts, McKee was recognized by Enon and Clark County law enforcement on Tuesday, Aug. 12 during the Enon Council meeting.

Photo/Village of Enon Photo/Village of Enon Photo/Village of Enon Photo/Village of Enon Photo/Village of Enon

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Jeffrey Epstein abuse survivor Haley Robson said President Trump would make a huge error if he were to pardon Epsteins close confidant, convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell.

I dont think Ghislaine has anything to say. I think its all rubbish. I think its dishonesty. Its a huge mistake for her to have the move in the first place, if you pardon her, theyll be making a huge error, Robson said in an interview with CNN released Tuesday.

Earlier this month, Trump said in an interview with Newsmax that he had not been asked about a pardon for Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence on sex trafficking charges.

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When asked about granting clemency for Maxwell, the British socialite and Epsteins longtime associate, in exchange for her testimony, the president said, Im allowed to do it. But nobodys asked me to do it.

Robson, who was introduced to Epstein by a classmate, said she met Maxwell and Epstein in 2002 as a 16-year-old in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Robson was asked to give Epstein a massage, and he then started masturbating in front of her. She rejected his advances, but he then offered her $200 for each girl she recruited.

I think at the moment, it was an act of me trying to just survive and get out of the situation, because I didnt know what to expect next. I didnt know what was going to happen, Robson told CNN, adding that she recruited girls for two years.

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Last month, Maxwell was quietly transferred from a federal prison in Florida to a prison camp in Texas.

The transfer came as her legal team appeals her case to the Supreme Court.

Maxwell sat for two interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in Tallahassee, Fla., in July, as the Trump administration faced increased pressure to release more documents related to Epsteins case. Maxwells lawyer previously said he had not spoken to the president about a potential pardon.

Maxwells move to Federal Prison Camp Bryan in Texas spurred an investigation from House Judiciary Democrats, who argued the transfer creates the strong appearance that it is attempting to cover up the full extent of the relationship between Trump and Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 in New York as he awaited trial.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Tropical Storm Erin continues to move quickly to the west and is expected to begin strengthening today, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

Forecasters are now encouraging residents in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and northern Leeward Islands to closely monitor Erin, which is expected to begin strengthening today.

Hurricane drama vs. data: Why Erin is a miniscule threat to Florida, U.S. east coast

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 Track all active storms

 Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location

Erin is expected to become a hurricane late Thursday, Aug. 14 or early Friday, Aug. 15 and strengthen into a major hurricane within the next 96 hours. A major hurricane is one that's a Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph.

While a curve back out to sea is widely expected and forecast in models, the full impact Erin could have on Florida and the U.S. remains uncertain as of Wednesday morning but officials also encourage residents to monitor the storm.

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"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the National Hurricane Center.

As for the Big Bend, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee said Erin "will never be a threat to the NE Gulf Coast.

"As the Hurricane Season peak approaches, ensure youre prepared for any threats," they wrote on X.

In a post on X on Thursday, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee wrote Erin will never be a threat to the NE Gulf Coast but is a good reminder to be ready for upcoming peak of hurricane season.

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In their 11 a.m. Aug. 14 forecast discussion, National Hurricane Center forecasters noted "There is still a greater than normal uncertainty about what impacts Erin may bring to portions of the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda in the long range."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also weighed in: "Models for Hurricane Erin currently have it turning north and staying far away from Florida. We continue to monitor for any shifts."

Forecasters reminded everyone that the forecast cone has an average error of 150 to 215 statute miles in the days 4 and 5 forecast. It's also important to remember that the cone represents where the center of the storm could be.

The fifth-named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Erin formed earlier than the historical average of Aug. 22.

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The average date for the first hurricane is Aug. 11, and the first major hurricane typically does not occur until Sept. 1, according to AccuWeather.

Tropical Storm Erin update, path

Special note on the NHC cone: The forecast track shows the most likely path of the center of the storm. It does not illustrate the full width of the storm or its impacts, and the center of the storm is likely to travel outside the cone up to 33% of the time.

Location : 1,400 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands

Maximum sustained winds: 45 mph

Movement : west at 20 mph

Pressure : 1,004 mb

Next advisory: 11 a.m. ET

When will Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane?

The National Hurricane Center predicted Erin will likely become a hurricane by late Thursday Aug. 14 or early Friday.

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Erin is expected to continue strengthening, becoming a major hurricane with winds estimated at 115 mph by early Sunday morning.

Spaghetti models for Tropical Storm Erin. Where is the storm going?

Special note about spaghetti models: Illustrations include an array of forecast tools and models, and not all are created equal. The hurricane center uses only the top four or five highest performing models to help make its forecasts.

 Track Tropical Storm Erin

Is there a hurricane coming to Florida?

No tropical storm  or hurricane  watches or warnings have been issued for Florida or the United States, and it's too early to tell whether Erin will impact the U.S., according to the National Hurricane Center, National Weather Service and Florida Division of Emergency Management.

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"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the Hurricane Center said.

How strong is Tropical Storm Erin and where could it go? See the scenarios

The National Hurricane Center said Tropical Storm Erin is expected to begin strengthening today, Aug. 13 and become a hurricane by late Thursday or early Friday and a Category 3 hurricane by Sunday, Aug. 17 as it moves out of an area with dry area and "marginal" sea surface temperatures.

Erin is expected to continue moving west across the Atlantic but is expected to turn to the west-northwest as it encounters a weakness in a "ridge" to its north. Exactly where that turn takes place remains uncertain.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the National Hurricane Center said.

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"Users are reminded that NHC track forecasts have an average error of 150-215 statute miles at days four and five, and future adjustments to the forecast are still possible."

"At the very least, building seas will pose threats for small craft and larger ocean-going vessels over the western Atlantic. Increasing surf and rip currents will pose dangers for swimmers over much of the U.S. Atlantic coast and Bermuda," AccuWeather forecasters said.

"The amount of wind and rain that occurs over the northeastern Caribbean islands and the Bahamas will depend on Erin's size, intensity and its ability to pull moisture northward from the Caribbean."

"Erin will be guided along by the northeast trade winds initially and then the clockwise circulation around the massive Bermuda High over the central Atlantic," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

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"It is the shape of that oceanic high, as well as the approach of a cool front and dip in the jet stream near the Atlantic Coast, that will determine the exact track of the projected major hurricane as it approaches the Atlantic Coast of the United States next week."

The scenarios, according to AccuWeather are:

"If the Bermuda High remains fairly round or yields to the approaching cool front and jet stream dip, Erin is likely to turn to the north before reaching the U.S.

"If the Bermuda High extends well to the west, it could block the potential major hurricane's northward path. The result would be a potential track very close to or onshore in the U.S., probably somewhere from the Carolinas north."

Key messages from the National Hurricane Center: What you need to know about Tropical Storm Erin

Erin could move close enough to the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend to produce some impacts on those islands. However, the magnitude of those impacts is still not known, and interests there should continue to monitor the progress of this storm. Swells generated by Erin will begin affecting portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by this weekend. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week. Erin is expected to become a hurricane by late Thursday or early Friday and a major hurricane by Sunday morning. NHC track forecasts have an average error of 120-180 nautical miles (150-215 statute miles) at days four and five, and future adjustments to the forecast are still possible.

Current forecast: How strong could Tropical Storm Erin get?

At 5 a.m.: 45 mph

12 hours: 50 mph

24 hours: 60 mph

36 hours: 65 mph

48 hours: 75 mph

60 hours: 85 mph

72 hours: 100 mph

96 hours: 115 mph

120 hours: 115 mph

Will Tropical Storm Erin impact Florida? What other areas could be affected?

It's still early to tell yet what impacts Tropical Storm Erin could have on Florida or the United States, although forecasters said rough surf and dangerous rip currents are possible along the east coast as Erin approaches.

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Officials warn residents should be prepared and closely monitor the storm that's expected to become a major hurricane by Sunday.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts, if any, might occur in ... the east coast of the United States ... next week," the National Hurricane Center said at 5 a.m. Aug. 13.

 Excessive rainfall forecast

Swells generated by Erin will begin affecting portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by this weekend, according to the National Hurricane Center. "These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions."

Interactive map: What tropical storms, hurricanes have impacted your area in the past?

Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text

What's next?

We will update our tropical weather coverage daily.

Download your local site's app to ensure you're always connected to the news. And look for our special subscription offers here.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Is Erin coming to Tallahassee, Florida area? Cat. 3 hurricane forecast
With only nine months left before a nominating convention, Connecticut Republicans are gearing up for a political battle to face Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont.

New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart has gained an early advantage by raising more than $300,000 in small contributions on her way toward qualifying for public financing against Lamont, a wealthy Greenwich entrepreneur who has spent millions to self-fund his statewide campaigns.

Stewart has been campaigning for months in the race against state Sen. Ryan Fazio, a fiscal conservative who recently formed an exploratory committee and whose supporters say will catch up in the fundraising battle.

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Without explicitly saying that both Lamont and Fazio live in wealthy Greenwich, Stewart says her campaign contributors are trying to make ends meet in hardscrabble towns across the state.

People are investing because theyre looking for a leader that fundamentally understands their concerns and worries  someone who, like them, understands the financial difficulties of raising a family in Connecticut, someone who comes from a community like theirs, Stewart said.

State Republican Chairman Ben Proto is remaining neutral in the race that also includes Westport First Selectman Jennifer Tooker and perennial candidate Peter Lumaj of Fairfield, who ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate in 2012, secretary of the state in 2014, and governor in 2018.

Proto said he is not even thinking about a primary in August 2026 and instead says the next step is for the candidates to make their case to the 1,200 delegates leading up to the state convention next May.

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Its a long way between now and May, Proto said Tuesday. Erin, with her announcement, if shes not there, she will have reached qualifying dollar amounts for [public financing], I suspect some time in September. So, I think that gives her a huge advantage over everybody else. Theres a lot of money that has to be raised by Ryan, Jen Tooker, and anyone else who gets in the race. I think that gives Erin a leg up on the money side.

But Fazio and his supporters say he has a solid base of support across the state and has the ability to raise money to catch up to Stewart. Fazio notes that he won an expensive and difficult race for state Senate in 2024 by about 2,000 votes in a fast-changing district where Democrat Kamala Harris defeated Republican Donald J. Trump by 17 percentage points. Fazio has won three straight elections after losing in 2020 to Democrat Alex Kasser.

Its been better across the state than I could have expected or asked, Fazio said of his recent support. Its time for a change. Its time for common sense, and its time for balance in the state government.  I feel a great deal of confidence in our ability to win the convention, win the primary, and win the general election.

Fazios name recognition has increased statewide as one of the primary voices against rising electric prices and the successful decision by the state legislature to move some of the public benefits charges off the bills of electric ratepayers, a key issue for Republicans.

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Former state Democratic Chairman John F. Droney said that Republicans are battling among themselves but will not defeat a well-funded, two-term Democratic governor who has had high poll ratings since leading the state during the coronavirus pandemic.

I think Stewart wins the primary hands down if there is one, Droney told The Courant in an interview. I think shes the most formidable candidate the Republicans have for governor, but she cant beat Lamont.

As a strong supporter of then-U.S. Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman, Droney worked hard against Lamont in 2006 during the Democratic and the general election. But he has now come around to be a solid supporter of Lamont.

I think hes been a damn good governor, Droney said. I voted for him, and I intend to vote for him again. Im proud that he is our governor of Connecticut.

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Lamont, Droney said, does not face much of a challenge from state Rep. Josh Elliott of Hamden, a liberal Democrat who is running against Lamont from the left in a race that Droney calls a waste of time for Democrats.

The guy cant win, Droney said of Elliott. Hed be better off running for mayor of New York City.  The Democratic party in Connecticut is not a socialist party. Its a party that leans left, like most Democrats do now, but people who are firebrands and AOC types are not going anywhere in Connecticut.

He was referring to U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, a nationally known liberal who represents portions of the Bronx and Queens in New York City.

The Democratic party, he said, has shifted left in Connecticut.

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I was there in the Bill ONeill days, Droney said, referring to the former governor from the 1980s. I was a John Kennedy Democrat. I was a Scoop Jackson Democrat. I was a Bill ONeill Democrat. Thats when we were the party of the working man and the party of rational behavior. And we were very successful in Connecticut at every level. That party doesnt exist anymore nationally. Its a bunch of left-wing psychos from the various universities and a bunch of socialists and people who are troublemakers, and theyre going nowhere. They couldnt make the sale at the national level, and theyre not going to make the sale in Connecticut.

On the Republican side, Fazios supporters believe that he can defeat Stewart in a primary. He is expected to raise money for public financing, but he could also benefit from third-party political action committees that are not officially connected to his campaign but can be funded by wealthy Greenwich and New Canaan residents who have supported him in previous campaigns.

Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com
Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. was 14 when he was lured to the home of infamous Texas serial killer Dean Corll. His neighbor, David Brooks, targeted troubled boys like him and brought them to meet Corll  a seemingly friendly man known for handing out candy to kids in the Houston Heights neighborhood in the early 1970s.

Corll sparked conversation with the teen about recent burglaries and asked him how he would protect himself if he were armed with a knife. But when Corll asked Henley if anyone knew where he was, he said his mother did  a move that Henley believes saved him from a deadly fate that day.

Nevertheless, Henley would end up entangled in the spree of crimes that Corll was secretly committing. Dozens of young boys had gone missing and many of them would be identified as murder victims of Corll and his two accomplices  Henley and Brooks.

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Henley is speaking about these events and his role in them for the first time in decades in a new Investigation Discovery documentary, The Serial Killer's Apprentice. Premiering Sunday, Aug. 17, at 9/8c on ID, the documentary features Henley in conversation with renowned forensic psychologist Dr. Katherine Ramsland. (An exclusive sneak peak can be seen below.)



Corll tortured, raped and killed at least 28 boys and young men between the ages of 13 and 20 in a rash of crimes dubbed the Houston Mass Murders. Many of the victims were buried in remote locations. The murders came to light in August 1973, after Henley fatally shot Corll during a confrontation and, along with Brooks, later led police to the victims' bodies.



PEOPLE spoke with Ramsland about Henley, a young murder accomplice who eventually killed his adult predator.

"I tried really hard to come up with a word other than 'victim' that would apply to someone like Henley, because in a way, it insults the actual victims who were tortured and raped and killed," Ramsland tells PEOPLE. "But, on the other hand, he was leveraged into doing something he didn't want to do so he's the victim of a predator in a different way."

Ramsland, who co-authored the book The Serial Killer's Apprentice with Tracy Ullman, further explains, "the process of grooming is really what we're talking about with Dean Corll. He had a plan and he did this with David Brooks, the other accomplice. He spotted vulnerable kids. He figured out how to play them. He played the long game with them little by little, until he had them in a trap."

Bettman Archive Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. (right). Elmer Wayne Henley Jr. (right).

Henley wasn't like other kids. He drank and used drugs as a teenager and was raised by his grandmother after his abusive father abandoned the family, according to Ramsland. But somewhere deep down, Henley "knew he had to do something" to stop the killing spree, she says.

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"I don't think he believed he was going to shoot Dean," says Ramsland. "But then Dean came at him. Dean had trained him to start shooting, and to not shoot till your targets are down. He trained him over and over and over. So Dean essentially set up his own death in that way.

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Speaking about how Corll ensured the accomplices wouldn't talk, Ramsland says, "he used this idea of a larger sex trafficking network, a syndicate that always had their eyes on them, and if they did anything out of line, you know they were going to be hurt, their families would be hurt."

Alamy; Military Photo Dean Corll Dean Corll

"First [Corll] groomed the whole neighborhood to believe he was a fine person, a big brother who just wanted to help the kids out so nobody would suspect him," the psychologist explains. "That was a very sophisticated kind of thing for a predator to do. And then he honed in on the kids and found what they neededwhat was their incentive. For Wayne Henley, it was money. For David Brooks, it was a place to stay and respect."

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Unlike many killers, Henley, who murdered at least six boys, felt remorse and confessed to police early on.

He's a compliant accomplice, and he doesn't get credit for the fact that here he was in the back of the police car having just [confessed] that he killed Dean Corll," Ramsland says. "He could have said nothing. He would have been a hero saving two kids and himself from this guy, who clearly was a predator.

Now serving a life term behind bars after pleading guilty to the murders, Henley "does resign himself to the possibility of dying in prison," Ramsland says. "He goes back and forth with recognizing the things that he did and that he has a just punishment."



The Serial Killer's Apprentice premieres Sunday, Aug. 17, at 9/8c on ID.



Read the original article on People
ESPN Reporter Caught Liking Anti-President Trump Video: Report originally appeared on The Spun.

An ESPN reporter is starting to catch some heat online for seemingly violating the network's ban on politics.

Several days ago a number of users on X noticed that ESPN ACC reporter Taylor Tannenbaum liked a very politically-leaning video. It was a post from a UCLA student speaking out against President Trump and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during their valedictorian speech.

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Given the negative reaction that ESPN executives have had to talents expressing support for conservative-leaning statements, outrage over the "hypocrisy" of her not being punished for her actions quickly followed.

"Weird that @espn threatened people like Sage and Ashley Brewer and Sam Ponder for social media activity but Im sure theyll take no action on whoever @TaylorTannebaum is for being cool w/UCLA Valedictorian and her '(expletive) trump' and '(expletive) ICE'... (Probably) gets a raise," one user wrote on X.

Weird that @espn threatened people like Sage and Ashley Brewer and Sam Ponder for social media activity but Im sure theyll take no action on whoever @TaylorTannebaum is for being cool w/UCLA Valedictorian and her fuck trump and fuck ICE @burackbobby_ Prob gets a raise. pic.twitter.com/QXGgQjR6mO  Dave Algonquin (@DaveAlgonquin3) August 10, 2025

"Under the precedent ESPN has set, Tannebaum should have already been contacted by network brassif not disciplined. After all, Ponder was scolded for "liking" a tweet that stated a biological fact," OutKick's Bobby Burack argued on Tuesday. "But don't expect it."

Reaction

While Tannenbaum has not spoken about the complaint being made against her, many users on X have taken to the comments in her most recent posts on X to admonish her for her politics:

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"I suggest self reflection and strongly consider you take lessons in elegance coupled with intellect and common sense from Sam Ponder! Thank you for your attention to this matter!" one user replied in response to an unrelated post she wrote.

"Youre an idiot, because your overlords at @espn let you get away with it, doesnt make it any less so. Youre stupid," wrote another.

UKRAINE - 2022/02/07: In this photo illustration, the ESPN logo is displayed on a smartphone screen with the Disney logo in the background. (Photo Illustration by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)SOPA Images/Getty Images

Harsh. But any kind of political statement is bound to get a reaction like that from other political people in this day and age.

It will be interesting to see if there's any response from either Tannenbaum or ESPN to this controversy though.

ESPN Reporter Caught Liking Anti-President Trump Video: Report first appeared on The Spun on Aug 12, 2025

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Former Apprentice star Tom Skinner meets JD Vance ran the headlines, reporting what may once have seemed an improbable encounter. A British reality TV star hanging out with the US vice-president? It would have been hard to imagine, say, Dick Cheney having a pint with some bloke off Big Brother. But when a former Apprentice star occupies the White House, perhaps all bets are off.

So who is Skinner and how did he  and not the Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch  end up at a barbecue with Vance this week in the Cotswolds, where the vice-president is spending his holiday at a Grade II-listed manor house?

Born in 1991 in Romford, east London, Skinner began working as a local market trader at the age of 16. In 2019, he entered the public consciousness as a bouncy 28-year-old contestant on the BBC business-based reality show, at which point he was a pillow salesman. Fired by Lord Sugar in week nine of the show, he has since appeared on other shows, including 8 Out of 10 Cats and Celebrity MasterChef, and accumulated hundreds of thousands of followers on social media. There, he posts videos of himself tucking into huge plates of heart-attack food and doling out motivational asides. It doesnt matter how big those steps are youre taking as long as theyre in the right direction, he tells his followers. And elsewhere: Were gonna give it 110 per cent and we aint gonna go home until we are proud.

It's time to lock up your warehouses and park up ya van and Enjoy ya friday afternoon pint! Another day done. See you all tomorrow. Don't go home untill you're proud. Bosh pic.twitter.com/uMp2pHg7Da  Thomas Skinner  (@iamtomskinner) March 22, 2024

The day job to which he gives his own 110 per cent continues to be pillow-related: hes listed by Companies House as director of The Fluffy Pillow Company, a mattress, bed and pillow specialist, having resigned in 2022 as director of Bosh Beds (which is now dissolved).

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A grafter, in the parlance of todays Conservatives; an entrepreneurial Essex Man in the parlance of Thatchers Britain. Think Del Boy crossed with Jamie Oliver (in his pre-Turkey Twizzlers era), as liberal with his gravy as he is with his catchphrases: lovely jubbly, the guvnor and his customary sign-off, bosh.

Apprentice viewers warmed to him, while Lord Sugar praised his honourability and say it as it is character. In a war, he would be someone youd want with you in the trenches, said the business magnate as he fired him, hinting at something solid and decent about him.

Skinner made it to week nine of The Apprentice in 2019 - BBC/PA Wire

In Skinners own words, it is all about family, hard work and good times.

In the words of Dr James Orr, associate professor of philosophy of religion at the University of Cambridge and champion of Skinner: Hes a very busy man. Hes up at 3.30am grafting, going for those revolting breakfasts, gets in his van, drives around the South East delivering mattresses, has a cheeky pint at his local.

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Next month, Skinner will join this years Strictly Come Dancing line-up, cementing his place as as a British celebrity.

It was Orr who match-made him with Vance, having earlier identified something in Skinner, 34, that he felt deserved a wider audience. Behind the cheeky chappy persona was someone, he felt, who was England incarnate: a patriotic, straight-talking family man with the kind of face William the Conqueror might have stared at in 1066.

Theres something timelessly English about him, says Orr, rejecting the idea that his appeal may be rooted to some extent in nostalgia for a vanishing imagined England of pints down the local and Sunday roasts. Its the energy, the sunny optimism, the authenticity. And maybe, he concedes, a glimpse into whats been lost.

The entrepreneurial Essex man has had a number of business endeavours, including a gym in Brentwood - Ian Davidson/Alamy Live News

It was earlier this year that Orr made his approach. He was organising a London conference called Now and England for the Roger Scruton Legacy Foundation and decided, as he puts it, that we had too many wonks, eggheads, politicians, and nobody who could speak of England.

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At a conference about England, this presented a problem. But Orr had seen a couple of Skinners videos and concluded that he was the answer: I thought, this guy is Romford on legs and I want him at this conference.

He rang Skinner every day for six weeks and was rewarded with silence. Eventually, though, his perseverance paid off and Skinner agreed to attend.

He came to the conference and gave a barnstorming speech, and what was so powerful about it was it wasnt political, wasnt point-scoring, wasnt having jabs at the Government or Opposition, says Orr. He talked in a straightforward and emotionally powerful way about his love of England.

I'm gonna be honest. I'll never understand people who live in this country and seem to hate it. Hate England, hate Britain, hate the culture, the history, the traditions. Why live here if you can't stand it? You should be proud of where you come from, or where you've chosen to pic.twitter.com/KBXO5MMlrx  Thomas Skinner  (@iamtomskinner) June 28, 2025

Orr, who is a friend of Vance, suspected he would get on well with Skinner, so he sent the vice-president a selfie of Skinner and himself and said: We have to go for pints with this guy.

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Late on Tuesday this week, Skinner duly posted a picture on X of himself and Vance after a few beers, him in crisp white shirt and tie, the VP dressed down in a polo shirt. It had been, he said, a cracking night in the beautiful English countryside with JD, his friends and family. A once in a lifetime moment, he added (before signing off with bosh).

Yet could a foray into politics be on the cards for Skinner?

He hasnt ruled it out, says Danny Kruger, Conservative MP for East Wiltshire and a fellow guest at the intimate barbecue with Vance.

When speaking to The Telegraph, Danny Kruger provided this picture of himself with Vance and Skinner at the barbecue - Danny Kruger

Speculation about Skinners possible ambitions followed a recent post in which he departed from his usual positivity to make what resembled a conspicuously political point.

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[I]t breaks my heart to say this but London dont feel like London no more, he wrote in a long post on X. The police aint on the beat. The people are scared London has fallen. But Im not giving up on it.

He went on to argue that change was needed: Real change. We need safety. We need pride. We need leadership that understands the streets, the markets, the working class. People like me.

He subsequently clarified that his post aint got nothing to do with politics and was neither Left-wing nor Right-wing. He admitted, too, that he doesnt actually vote.

None of which has stopped politicians from across the spectrum from seeking to hitch their wagons to him. Hes been invited to Parliament by Labour to talk about small businesses, and appeared in a video with Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, discussing tool theft. (Jenrick got his own audience with Vance on Tuesday, while it was Nigel Farages turn on Wednesday morning).

I think hed be a refreshing breath of honesty, says Rupert Lowe, the independent (and ex-Reform) MP for Great Yarmouth, who spoke alongside Skinner at the Now and England conference.

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In 2011, Skinner was sentenced in court after being charged with dishonestly handling nearly 40,000 of stolen goods. He later explained to The Sun that he wasnt aware the stock was stolen, had paid for his mistake and was now a changed man. The episode appears to have done little to dent his popularity.

But Orr points out that Skinner rarely says anything political and sounds ambivalent, for his part, about a future in politics for him.

I dont know, he muses. Thats really something for him to decide. Its hard to see how the political infrastructure can accommodate him. He would have to give up a lot of whats precious to him: his local community, his businesses.

In June, Skinner posted a picture of himself wearing a Maga hat on social media, saying it was a gift from a friend - @iamtomskinner / X

The qualities that account for Skinners appeal may not be compatible with politics moreover, Orr suggests. Hes not cerebral, not head in the clouds, not going to be going through policy detail. But hes got extraordinary charisma and is clearly highly intelligent and very articulate.

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In the mould of that other famous former Apprentice star, Donald Trump, he speak[s] human, says Orr, classing Skinner firmly in the somewheres demographic, referring to the author David Goodharts categories to describe those rooted in a specific place. How one harnesses [his] energy and channels it properly so that hes not exploited or used, I dont know [But] he feels the country he loves is not in a good place.

You wouldnt necessarily know this, however, from the relentlessly bright and breezy tone of his videos, with their focus on the good things in life: food, family and the ability to pour gravy or milk from a jug without watching where it lands. Mostly Skinner looks like hes just having a ruddy good time.

On the shifting sands of todays political landscape, and amid a widespread weariness of the country and its political class, the philosophy of bosh may be where were heading.

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.
There was a moment, around this time last year, when it felt like things might turn out OK for the Democrats. The party had a new nominee for president, Kamala Harris, and she was saying a lot of the right things. At a time when voters were clearly upset about affordability, Harris started off her campaign with talk of cracking down on price gouging, and other policies to rein in corporate corruption. By late summer, some journalists were asking questions such as, The Populist Mantle Is Harriss for the Taking: But Does She Want It?

Alas, to our daily horror, she didnt want that mantle. Her campaign pivoted away from economic populism and embraced the corporate-friendly centrism of Harriss closest advisers. This shift was clear in her policy moves, like watering down her price-gouging crackdown and walking back proposals to tax the rich following pressure from her biggest donors, as well as in her rhetoric, as she curtailed earlier messaging on taking on corporate elites and went all in on a bipartisan theme of defending democracy. In October, Harris campaigned more often with Republican Liz Cheney than any other surrogate, and had more appearances with billionaire Mark Cuban than United Auto Workers president Shawn Fain.

And then she lost. She significantly underperformed with working-class voters compared to Joe Biden in 2020, and became the first Democratic presidential nominee in decades to receive more support from Americans in the top third of the income bracket than those in the bottom two-thirds. That is why there has been broad agreementeven David Brooks is in this campthat if Democrats want to defeat MAGA Republicans, they need to stop embracing anodyne, corporate-approved messaging and start giving people something to vote for. If you dont believe it, compare the current approval rating of the Democratic Party (-32) with that of Bernie Sanders (+11). Thats a 43-point difference.

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Unfortunately, many members of the Democratic establishment remain firmly opposed to this hard-learned principle. The antipathy toward populism has been most apparent lately in the New York City mayoral race, where Zohran Mamdani remains unendorsed by leading Democrats despite winning the partys nomination and facing off against two Democrats (who turned independent for the general election) who are now collaborating with Trump. But its in relation to the partys top campaign apparatusesthe Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committeethat this refusal to learn the lessons of 2024 could be most catastrophic to the partys prospects in next years midterm elections.

Because again and again, in must-win House and Senate races, rather than embracing candidates that are proving their capacity to spark grassroots Democratic enthusiasm and tap into the populist ferment of the American public, establishment leaders are working to tilt the scales in favor of exactly the kind of uninspiring corporatists that dug the partys current hole.

Were seeing this play out very clearly in the Senate race in Michigan. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, backed by Bernie Sanders, is a full-throated progressive populist (and an occasional TNR contributor). State Senator Mallory McMorrow is running as a D.C. outsider. Both are charismatic communicators and strong grassroots fundraisers; despite refusing to take corporate PAC money, they raised $1.8 million and $2.1 million, respectively, in the last quarter.

So naturally the Democratic establishment is pushing hard for a third candidate, with reports that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who chairs the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, are privately encouraging donors to line up behind Congresswoman Haley Stevens.

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Stevens is not charismatic in person. She is not an effective communicator online; her social media posts regularly get single-digit engagement. Shes not a strong fundraiser; she raised less than either McMorrow or El-Sayed, with just $1.3 million in new contributions last quarter, despite being the only candidate in the race taking money from corporations. And shes taking a lot of it, with hundreds of thousands of dollars from nearly 100 different corporate PACs representing Wall Street (Goldman Sachs, the American Bankers Association); fossil fuels (Dupont, Dow, the American Chemistry Council); insurance (UnitedHealth, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield), utilities (Cox, Verizon, DTE); Big Tech (Google, Microsoft); retailers (Walmart, Home Depot); Big Sugar; and many, many others.

Unlike McMorrow and El-Sayed, who both oppose weapons shipments to Israel, Stevens is firmly in the pocket of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee: She raised more money from AIPAC than she did in small-dollar unitemized contributions. This would be an electoral albatross in any state, given Americans nearly two-to-one opposition to Israels genocide in Gaza. But in Michigan, the state with the largest number of Arab American voters, who famously abandoned Democrats in the last election, choosing Stevens is an even riskier bet. And yet, thats exactly the bet that Democrats like Schumer and Gillibrand are seemingly making.

Similar stories are playing out in the battle for the House. A prime example is Californias 22nd district, currently represented by GOP Congressman David Valadao, one of the most vulnerable Republicans in the country. This is a heavily Latino district that swung to Trump after Biden won it by 13 points in 2020. And Randy Villegas, who launched a campaign against Valadao earlier this year, would seem to be a perfect fit for it. A working-class educator and local elected official, Villegas is the son of Mexican immigrants, and speaks compellingly about the issues his community faces. Though he hesitates to put any labels (like progressive or leftist) on himself, he is clearly running as an economic populist. I think we need to have candidates who are willing to say that theyre going to stand up against corporate greed, that they are going to stand against corruption in government, and that they are going to stand against billionaires that are controlling the strings right now, he said in April. And hes demonstrated his viability, raising a quarter of a million dollars in the last quarter without taking any corporate PAC money.

So how did the DCCC respond to Villegass momentum? By convincing State Assemblymember Jasmeet Bainsarguably Californias most conservative Democratic legislator, whose blatant shilling for the fossil fuel industry earned her the moniker Big Oil Bainsto get in the race. Bains announced her candidacy in mid-July, several months after the San Joaquin Valley Sun reported that the DCCC and some California House Democrats were recruiting her.

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On paper, Bains has some strengths. In particular, she is a medical doctor, which provides a useful framing device for criticizing Valadaos vote for the health care cuts in Trumps murderous budget bill. But in a working-class district like CA-22, Bains record of protecting corporate profits over regular people could be a serious liability. She was the only California Democrat to vote no on a bill to curb price gouging in the oil industry. The Big Oil lobbying group Western States Petroleum Association, which opposed the bill, rewarded Bains with a max-out contribution a couple months after the vote. Bains was also the only Democrat to vote against a bill to hold oil companies accountable for finished oil wells they refuse to plug, and to vote against allocating $1.5 billion for wildfire preventionjust five months before wildfires would devastate Southern California. In a district with huge numbers of renters, she voted against increased protections for tenants.

So in a race that will be defined by whether Democrats can effectively attack the incumbent for raising costs on his working-class Latino constituents by voting for the Trump budget bills corporate handouts, the Democratic establishment is stepping in to block a working-class Latino candidate perfectly suited to making that case in favor of the California Democrat with perhaps the most obvious record of voting to let corporations raise costs on regular people.

This critique isnt about ideology. Its about winning. Like Harris and her advisers, the historically unpopular leaders of the Democratic Party are operating off a failed model that prioritizes a candidates approval by corporate interests over their ability to channel the populist frustrations being expressed by Americans across the political spectrum. By refusing to absorb the lessons of 2024, this establishment is now imperiling Democrats chances in 2026and thereby threatening to condemn all of us to at least two more years of unchecked authoritarian rule.
In Estonia, a Polish national has been detained after illegally crossing the EstonianRussian border. He is suspected of intending to join the Russian armed forces.

Source: European Pravda with reference to ERR

Details: The incident occurred last week, on the night of 4-5 August, but was only reported now. Estonian border guards spotted an attempt to cross the Narva River towards Russia on an inflatable mattress.

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The man was intercepted and detained. He turned out to be a 49-year-old Polish citizen. During a search, pro-Russian symbols were found in his possession. The investigation later established that he had arrived in Estonia from Serbia and intended to enlist in the Russian forces.

He has been taken into custody for at least two months and charged under the article on participation in, or support for, an act of aggression committed by a foreign state.

"Joining the Russian armed forces creates an indirect threat to the security of Estonia and all EU member states We will hold to account citizens of other countries who attempt to support Russias war," said Voru County Chief Prosecutor Gardi Anderson.

The prosecutor added that the case confirms the effectiveness of Estonias border security with Russia, which also serves as the EUs external border.

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Background:

Earlier, Poland launched an investigation against one of its citizens fighting for Russia and spreading propaganda.

In spring 2025, Finland sentenced the commander of the Rusich group to life imprisonment for war crimes in Ukraine.

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Estonias Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the charge daffaires of the Russian Embassy on 13 August to hand over a diplomatic note declaring the embassys first secretary persona non grata.

Source: a statement from the Estonian Foreign Ministry, as reported by European Pravda

Details: While delivering the note, the ministry told the Russian embassy representative that Estonia would not tolerate Russias activities aimed at undermining Estonias constitutional order and internal stability, and considered it necessary to express this very clearly.

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Estonia will also inform its partners and allies about the incident.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated, "The diplomat in question has been directly and actively involved in undermining the constitutional order and legal system of Estonia, as well as in dividing Estonian society, contributing to the crimes against the state, including several offences related to sanctions violations".

He said that one Estonian citizen has been convicted of committing these crimes.

Quote: "The Russian embassys ongoing interference in the internal affairs of the Republic of Estonia must end and by expelling the diplomat, we are demonstrating that Estonia will not allow any actions orchestrated and organised by a foreign state on its territory."

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More details: The foreign ministry noted that Estonias actions are in line with Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which stipulates that the receiving state may, at any time and without having to explain its decision, notify the sending state that the head of the mission or any member of the diplomatic staff is persona non grata.

Background:

In late May, Estonia expelled and handed over to the Ukrainian authorities a Ukrainian citizen who had maintained contacts with Russias intelligence.

In early June, Estonia revoked the residence permit and expelled a Russian citizen on national security grounds.

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Typhoon Podul has strengthened and is expected to enter the citys 800-kilometer monitoring range by 2 p.m. today, according to the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau.

The storm will pass about 400 kilometers from Macau, weakening to a tropical storm by that time.

As of 2 p.m. yesterday, Podul was located roughly 1,340 kilometers east of Macau, moving westward at about 25 kilometers per hour toward southern Taiwan.

The weather forecast calls for hot and cloudy conditions today, with occasional showers and possible thunderstorms. Temperatures will range from 27 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees.

Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through Thursday and Friday.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Observatory forecasts that Podul will come within 800 kilometers of Hong Kong this morning, triggering the issuance of the Standby Signal No. 1.

The China Central Meteorological Observatory predicts the typhoon will make landfall around noon today on the southeastern coast of Taiwan as a typhoon or severe typhoon.

Meanwhile, authorities in Taiwan are rushing to evacuate hundreds of residents ahead of the storm, which is forecast to hit near the city of Taitung today as it intensifies, with wind gusts reaching up to 155 kilometers per hour (96 mph).

Taiwans east coast, known for its mountainous terrain and lower population density, frequently experiences typhoons coming from the Pacific Ocean. Nearby regions are still recovering from damage caused by earlier storms. Times Reporter

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STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -Estonia is expelling a Russian diplomat over sanctions violations and other crimes against the state, the Baltic country's foreign ministry said on Wednesday, prompting Moscow to say it would retaliate.

The first secretary of the Russian embassy in Tallinn has been declared 'persona non grata' and must leave Estonia, the ministry said, without naming the diplomat.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexei Fadeev said the expulsion was a hostile act and that Moscow would respond.

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Diplomatic relations between Moscow and Estonia, a NATO and European Union member state, have deteriorated sharply following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

"The Russian embassy's ongoing interference in the internal affairs of the Republic of Estonia must end," Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in a statement.

An Estonian citizen has been convicted of crimes in connection with the case, the ministry said, without elaborating.

It also gave no details on what sanctions had been violated. Western countries have imposed a large array of economic sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

(Reporting by Anna RingstromEditing by Terje Solsvik and Gareth Jones)
Estonia has declared a staff member of the Russian embassy in Tallinn persona non grata and expelled him from the country over alleged subversive activities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tallinn said on Wednesday the charge daffaires of the Russian mission has been informed of the decision.

"The diplomat in question has been directly and actively involved in undermining the constitutional order and legal system of Estonia, as well as in dividing Estonian society, contributing to the crimes against the state, including several offences related to sanctions violations," Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in a statement.

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An Estonian citizen has already been convicted in connection with these activities, the minister said.

"The Russian embassys ongoing interference in the internal affairs of the Republic of Estonia must end and by expelling the diplomat," Tsahkna continued.

His ministry did not provide further details.

Estonia, which shares a border with Russia and is home to large Russian-speaking minority, has felt particularly threatened since the Russian invasion of Ukraine three and a half years ago.
Ukraine's allies are assessing the possibility of easing sanctions against Russia if a ceasefire is achieved in the Russo-Ukrainian war.

Source: Sky News citing sources close to the EU Council, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The sources stated that Ukraine's allies are considering a progressive easing of sanctions against Russia if a full ceasefire is reached.

They said the sanctions would be reinstated if any violations occur.

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They hope that a 15-day ceasefire will be agreed immediately (with sanctions remaining in force during this period) before "a more structured pause in the fighting" in Ukraine is established.

Separately, sources in the Italian government told Sky News that during the video conference to be held on 13 August, they will insist that US President Donald Trump must involve Europe in his talks with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine.

"He's been asking European countries to invest more on military spending, so we must be involved in these decisions," an Italian diplomat explained.

The sources added that during the talks, Italy will stress the need for clear military, economic and political guarantees for Ukraine.

Background:

Trump and Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on 15 August.

CNN has reported that Trump and Putin will meet at a military base, although the White House had wanted to avoid that.

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By Thomas Escritt and Sarah Marsh

BERLIN (Reuters) -German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said European leaders had laid out terms for a ceasefire in Ukraine that would protect their security interests in a call on Wednesday with U.S. President Donald Trump.

European leaders including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy held the call with Trump in a bid to influence his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, the first U.S.-Russia summit since 2021.

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"We have made it clear that Ukraine must be at the table as soon as follow-up meetings take place," Merz said in at the joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"We want negotiations to proceed in the right order, with a ceasefire at the outset."

Merz, who initiated the meeting with Trump, said that Ukraine was prepared to negotiate on territorial issues, but "legal recognition of Russian occupation is not up for debate".

The country would need "robust security guarantees", he said, although he did not detail what kind.

If there was no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, however, "then the United States and we Europeans should and must increase the pressure".

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"President Trump is aware of this position and largely shares it," Merz said.

The chancellor noted that all conversations held with Putin since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine three and a half years ago had each time been accompanied by an even Russian harsher military response.

If the same occurred this time, it would show conversations with Putin were neither credible nor successful.

"If the United States of America now work towards peace in Ukraine that safeguards European and Ukrainian interests, he can count on our full support in this endeavour," said Merz.

(Reporting by Thomas Escritt in Berlin; Writing by Sarah Marsh; Editing by Madeline Chambers and Alex Richardson)
On Aug. 7, the title page of Switzerlands main daily newspaper, Blick, featured a single figure in large white font against a black background: 39%.

That, of course, is the tariff rate on Swiss imports that U.S. President Donald Trump had announced a week earlier and which took effect on Aug. 7, marking what Blick called a black day for the Alpine country.

While Trump has justified higher tariffs as a way to reduce U.S. trade deficits, in many cases he is clearly using them to punish countries worldwide for all kinds of actual and perceived slights against him or the United States. While some countries have so far escaped with the baseline rate of 10 percent and a handful have negotiated levies that are lower than what Trump initially announced back in April, others that find themselves in Trumps crosshairs have not been so lucky.

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Switzerlands 39 percent is comparatively high in the international context. It is the highest in Europe and considerably higher than the 15 percent tariff negotiated by the European Union for its member states.

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The logic behind such a punitive rate is unclear. Switzerland has not been guilty of any particular affront against Trump. It runs a trade surplus with the U.S., but so do most European nations. More likely, Trump put the tariffs in place because he could: As a Spiegel commentator put it poignantly, Switzerland is alone, it is not part of the EU, it has no means of exerting pressure. It is defenseless.

The tariffs are an economic challenge: As Swiss products become more expensive for U.S. consumers, it is expected that sales will be negatively affected, with a projection of 0.6 percent of lost growth for Switzerland.

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But economics are only one part of the equation. The tariffs reveal a more fundamental problem for Switzerland in the new geopolitical landscape in which we now find ourselves. Bern is usually rather successful in staying out of geopolitics, and in turn it is left alone by most global actors. But as Trumps tariffs indicate, that is changing.

At the core of Switzerlands status as a special country is its neutrality, which it has maintained for centuries. Though it is surrounded by NATO and EU member states, it has joined neither organization, nor has it entered into bilateral defense accords or any other form of military alliance. It only joined the United Nations in 2002. Neutrality gives Switzerland the freedom not to care so much about what is going on in the world, or so the logic behind it goes.

But that logic is increasingly coming under pressure. Neutrality only works if other countries recognize itand fewer big powers seem to be willing to do that. Trumps tariffs are one example. Another is Russias official proclamation that it no longer considers Switzerland neutral because Bern applied EU sanctions in the context of Russias war against Ukraine.

The previously perceived advantages of neutrality are diminishing due to outside countries no longer recognizing neutrality as unquestioningly as they used to.

This has led some analysts within Switzerland to question the status quo. In September 2024, for instance, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection, and Sport published a report by an expert commission that called for revising Switzerlands neutrality policy in view of the security policy challenges the country faces.

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Despite these calls for reform, actual changes in Switzerlands posture seem unlikely in the near future, given how closely neutrality is linked to Swiss identity. Public support for neutrality reflects that: Since 2014, the average proportion of Swiss citizens who want Switzerland to remain neutral is 95 percent.

But Switzerland is not the only neutral country that is finding itself in a new and increasingly uncomfortable world, squeezed between public opinion, national tradition and a changing geopolitical reality. In Europe, there are four other neutral countries: Austria, Ireland and the island states of Malta and Cyprus. There used to be two more, but Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 drove Finland and Sweden to abandon their non-aligned status and join NATO in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Neutrality comes in degrees, with Swiss neutrality generally seen as one of the strongest. By contrast, Austria, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus are members of the EU, as are Finland and Sweden, for that matter. Whether and how countries can be part of the EU while still proclaiming to be neutral has been the subject of debate for years. In fact, that debate predates the EU membership of these countries: A former Austrian diplomat notes in a forthcoming book that any law student at an Austrian university between 1989 and 1995 who answered yes to an exam question of whether neutrality was compatible with full membership of the European Communitythe predecessor of the EUthey would have promptly failed the exam. Nevertheless, Austria joined the EU in 1995.

For Austria, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta, the benefits of the status quo are obvious. Most importantly, their neutrality allows them to underspend on their own security, with their defense budgets ranging between 0.3 percent of GDP for Ireland to 1.8 percent of GDP for Maltaconsiderably lower than the 3.5 percent of GDP that NATO recently set as its target for non-dual-use spending. And as the EU is also developing more and more into a defense union, the special status these four countries have carved out for themselves effectively allows them to not be bound by the EUs mutual defense clause, but still expect to be helped by the other member states in case of an attack.

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For the EU, this is a problem, although one that Brussels does not like to talk about too loudly, for fear of being seen as interfering into domestic issues reserved for national governments. But the inconvenient truth is that the neutral countries call into question the strength of Europes mutual defense clause, even as their military weakness adds to Europes overall struggle to build up its strategic autonomy. Meanwhile, the previously perceived advantages of neutralityparticularly the ability to be seen as an honest broker and serve as a territory where international negotiations can take placeare diminishing due to outside countries no longer recognizing neutrality as unquestioningly as they used to.

All this means that for Europes neutral countries and for the EU, the time might have come to consider ending the charade and committing fully to European securityfor their sake as well as for Europe as a whole.

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 Europes Neutral Countries Are Coming Under Pressure appeared first on World Politics Review.
Ukraine's European allies have reiterated five main requirements for a peace deal with Russia, in talks with US President Donald Trump, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday.

"We want President Donald Trump to be successful in Anchorage on Friday," Merz said following the consultations via video link he organized ahead of Trump's planned talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

But for the meeting to yield an outcome acceptable to all, it has to be made clear that Ukraine will be allowed to join the table in potential follow-up talks, Merz, speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin, said.

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"We want negotiations to take place in the right order. There must be a ceasefire at the beginning," said Merz. Essential elements should then be agreed in a framework agreement, he added.

Regarding a third condition for a potential peace deal, Merz said: "Ukraine is ready to negotiate on territorial issues. However, the so-called line of contact must be the starting point and legal recognition of Russian occupation is out of the question. The principle that borders may not be changed by force must continue to apply."

Fourthly, Merz called for "robust security guarantees for Kiev" and for Ukraine's ability to defend itself to be maintained, while lastly, any future negotiations must be part of "a common trans-Atlantic strategy."

Merz, Zelensky and a number of European leaders held talks with Trump and his Vice President JD Vance to discuss the US president's upcoming meeting with Putin.
European leaders will hold online talks with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, hoping to convince him to respect Ukraine's interests when he discusses the war with Russia's Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has invited Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky as well as the French, British and other European leaders and the heads of the EU and NATO to an afternoon video conference.

They are then expected to talk to Trump and Vice President JD Vance in a second round of the conference call.

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The Trump-Putin meeting on Friday -- their first since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine over three years ago -- is so far planned to go ahead without Zelensky.

This has fuelled fears Kyiv could be forced into painful concessions, including over land.

EU leaders stressed on Tuesday "the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny", adding that "international borders must not be changed by force".

Zelensky, speaking to reporters Tuesday, ruled out withdrawing troops from the Donbas region which Moscow claims.

Merz's office said the conference call would discuss "further options to exert pressure on Russia" and "preparation of possible peace negotiations and related issues of territorial claims and security".

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The talks would include leaders from "Finland, France, the UK, Italy, Poland, Ukraine, the heads of the European Commission and Council, the secretary general of NATO, as well as the US president and his deputy", Berlin said on Monday.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and Merz are then also set to hold a round of talks of the so-called Coalition of the Willing of Ukraine's military backers.

- 'Difficult' battles -

Trump on Monday played down the possibility of a breakthrough in Alaska but said he expected "constructive conversations" with Putin.

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"This is really a feel-out meeting a little bit," Trump said at the White House, but he also added that eventually "there'll be some swapping, there'll be some changes in land".

Russia, as a prerequisite to a peace settlement, has demanded Kyiv pull its forces out of several regions claimed by Moscow, commit to being a neutral state, shun US and EU military support and be excluded from joining NATO.

Ukraine has said it would never recognise Russian control over its sovereign territory, though it acknowledged that getting land captured by Russia back would have to come through diplomacy, not on the battlefield.

Ukraine said Tuesday it was engaged in "difficult" battles with Russian forces after Moscow had made rapid advances in a narrow but important section of the front line in the country's east.

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Zelensky said on social media that "we see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations."

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US President Donald Trump and European leaders hailed their virtual meeting on Wednesday as positive and constructive, with the German chancellor saying that Trump largely shares Europes objectives over the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was on the call, said that Trump had expressed support for getting a ceasefire before discussing security guarantees with Moscow, ahead of the US presidents meeting with Vladimir Putin on Friday.

French President Emmanuel Macron said that Trump clearly stated that Ukraine would be involved in any territorial negotiations.

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Trump on Wednesday described the call as very good and friendly, and floated the possibility of a second meeting involving Putin and Zelenskyy.

The video call was seen as Europes last-minute attempt to persuade Trump not to cut a deal with Putin without Ukraines involvement.

The White House has downplayed expectations for Fridays meeting, calling it a listening exercise for Trump.
European leaders plan to hold a video conference on Wednesday with US President Donald Trump and US Vice President JD Vance ahead of Trump's meeting on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The online meeting, on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's initiative and including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, comes as leaders in Europe seek a united front regarding Russia's war in Ukraine ahead of the Trump-Putin summit scheduled to take place in Alaska.

Before speaking with Trump, the Europeans intend to hold a separate meeting with the European Commission, NATO and Zelensky to coordinate their positions. Following the talks with Trump and Vance, Europe's leaders plan to reconvene to review the discussion.

Europeans fear being sidelined

The Europeans are concerned that during their meeting on Friday Trump and Putin could finalize territorial concessions that Ukraine must make to Russia - concessions Kiev has rejected.

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Trump has framed the planned meeting as an attempt to move closer to ending the conflict, which has lasted for approximately three and a half years.

The US president has mentioned the possibility of a territorial exchange between Ukraine and Russia even though Ukraine has consistently and firmly opposed any territorial concessions.

The German government said the talks with the US leaders would focus on how to increase pressure on Moscow, preparations for potential peace negotiations and related issues concerning territorial claims and security.

Apart from Trump, Vance, Merz and Zelensky, leaders from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte are expected to attend the meeting.
European leaders appeared cautiously optimistic after holding a virtual meeting with Donald Trump on Wednesday, two days before he meets his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.

Trump reportedly told the Europeans that his goal for the summit was to obtain a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.

He also agreed that any territorial issues had to be decided with Volodymyr Zelensky's involvement, and that security guarantees had to be part of the deal, according to France's Emmanuel Macron.

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Speaking to Trump had allowed him to "clarify his intentions" and gave the Europeans a chance to "express our expectations," Macron said.

Trump and Vice-President JD Vance spoke to the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Finland and Poland as well as EU chief Ursula von der Leyen and Nato chief Mark Rutte.

The Europeans have been sidelined from the hastily organised summit in Alaska and their phone call today was a last-ditch attempt to keep Ukraine's interests and the continent's security at the forefront of Trump's mind.

To an extent, it seemed to work. On Wednesday evening Trump rated the meeting "a ten" and said Russia would face "very severe" consequences unless it halted its war in Ukraine.

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He also said that if Friday's meeting went well he would try and organise a "quick second one" involving both Putin and Zelensky.

Still, in their statements European leaders restated the need for Kyiv to be involved in any final decision  betraying an underlying nervousness that Putin could ultimately persuade Trump to concede Ukrainian land in exchange for a ceasefire.

"It's most important thing that Europe convinces Donald Trump that one can't trust Russia," said Poland's Donald Tusk, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the leaders had "made it clear that Ukraine must be at the table as soon as follow-up meetings take place".

If the Russian side refused to make any concessions, "then the United States and we Europeans should and must increase the pressure," Merz said.

Ukraine after 2014 and before the start of the 2022 full-scale invasion [BBC]

Since the US-Russia summit was announced last week, Trump has made several references to "land-swapping" between Kyiv and Moscow  sparking serious concerns in Ukraine and beyond that he could be preparing to give in to Putin's longstanding demand to seize large swathes of Ukrainian territory.

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On Wednesday morning Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexey Fadeev reiterated that Russia's stance had not changed since Putin set it out in June 2024.

At the time Putin said a ceasefire would start the minute the Ukrainian government withdrew from four regions partially occupied by Russia - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. He also said Ukraine would need to officially give up in its efforts to join the Nato military alliance.

These are maximalist demands which neither Kyiv nor its European partners see as viable.

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Zelensky has said he is convinced that Russia would use any region it was allowed to keep as a springboard for future invasions.

A way to counter this threat could be security guarantees - intended as commitments to ensure Ukraine's long-term defence.

In statements issued after the phone call with Trump, several European leaders said such guarantees had been mentioned and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that "real progress" had been made in that respect.

He also praised Trump's efforts to reach an agreement, saying: "For three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on and we haven't got anywhere near the prospect of an actually a viable solution, a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire.

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"Now we do have that chance, because of the work the president has put in."

Since the spring the UK and France have been spearheading efforts to create a so-called "Coalition of the Willing" - a group of nations who have pledged to deter Russia from further invading Ukraine.

On Wednesday the group said it stood "ready to play an active role" including by deploying "a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased" - although the shape, composition and role of such a force is yet unclear.

Meanwhile, on the front lines, Russia's summer offensive continues to press on. Referencing the sudden advance of Moscow's troops near Dobropillya, in the embattled Donetsk region, Zelensky said Putin was pretending that sanctions were not effective at damaging the Russian economy.

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"I told Trump and our European allies that Putin is bluffing," the Ukrainian president said, urging them to apply "more pressure" on Russia.

For his part, Trump appeared to admit that even when he meets Putin face-to-face he may not be able to get him to stop killing civilians in Ukraine.

"I've had that conversation with him... but then I go home and see that a rocket has hit a nursing home or an apartment building and people are lying dead in the street.

"So I guess the answer to that is probably no."
President Donald Trump extended a trade truce with China for another 90 days yesterday [Macau time], at least delaying once again a dangerous showdown between the worlds two biggest economies.

Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that he signed the executive order for the extension, and that all other elements of the Agreement will remain the same. Beijing at the same time also announced the extension of the tariff pause, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

The previous deadline was set to expire at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday. Had that happened the U.S. could have ratcheted up taxes on Chinese imports from an already high 30%, and Beijing could have responded by raising retaliatory levies on U.S. exports to China.

The pause buys time for the two countries to work out some of their differences, perhaps clearing the way for a summit later this year between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and it has been welcomed by the U.S. companies doing business with China.

Sean Stein, president of the U.S.-China Business Council, said the extension is critical to give the two governments time to negotiate a trade agreement that U.S. businesses hope would improve their market access in China and provide the certainty needed for companies to make medium- and long-term plans.

Securing an agreement on fentanyl that leads to a reduction in U.S. tariffs and a rollback of Chinas retaliatory measures is acutely needed to restart U.S. agriculture and energy exports, Stein said.

China said yesterday it would extend relief to American companies who were placed on an export control list and an unreliable entities list. After Trump initially announced tariffs in April, China restricted exports of dual-use goods to some American companies, while banning others from trading or investing in China. The Ministry of Commerce said it would stop those restrictions for some companies, while giving others another 90-day extension.

Reaching a pact with China remains unfinished business for Trump, who has already upended the global trading system by slapping double-digit taxes  tariffs  on almost every country on earth.

The European Union, Japan and other trading partners agreed to lopsided trade deals with Trump, accepting once unthinkably U.S. high tariffs (15% on Japanese and EU imports, for instance) to ward off something worse.

Trumps trade policies have turned the United States from one of the most open economies in the world into a protectionist fortress. The average U.S. tariff has gone from around 2.5% at the start of the year to 18.6%, highest since 1933, according to the Budget Lab at Yale University.

But China tested the limits of a U.S. trade policy built around using tariffs as a cudgel to beat concessions out of trading partners. Beijing had a cudgel of its own: cutting off or slowing access to its rare earths minerals and magnets  used in everything from electric vehicles to jet engines.

In June, the two countries reached an agreement to ease tensions. The United States said it would pull back export restrictions on computer chip technology and ethane, a feedstock in petrochemical production. And China agreed to make it easier for U.S. firms to get access to rare earths.

The U.S. has realized it does not have the upper hand, said Claire Reade, senior counsel at Arnold & Porter and former assistant U.S. trade representative for China affairs.

In May, the U.S. and China had averted an economic catastrophe by reducing massive tariffs theyd slapped on each others products, which had reached as high as 145% against China and 125% against the U.S.

Those triple-digit tariffs threatened to effectively end trade between the United States and China and caused a frightening sell-off in financial markets. In a May meeting in Geneva they agreed to back off and keep talking: Americas tariffs went back down to a still-high 30% and Chinas to 10%.

Having demonstrated their ability to hurt each other, theyve been talking ever since.

By overestimating the ability of steep tariffs to induce economic concessions from China, the Trump administration has not only underscored the limits of unilateral U.S. leverage, but also given Beijing grounds for believing that it can indefinitely enjoy the upper hand in subsequent talks with Washington by threatening to curtail rare earth exports, said Ali Wyne, a specialist in U.S.-China relations at the International Crisis Group. The administrations desire for a trade detente stems from the self-inflicted consequences of its earlier hubris.

PAUL WISEMAN & DIDI TANG, WASHINGTON, MDT/AP

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THE HAGUE, Netherlands  European military industrial production in support of Ukraine has overtaken American output for the first time since Russias invasion, new numbers released Tuesday show.

According to the tally by the German Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Europe allocated at least 35.1 billion ($41.1 billion) in military industrial output to Ukraine between the start of the war in February 2022 and the end of June 2025. This is 4.4 billion ($5.15 billion) more than the U.S. committed in the same period.

The continent also overtook the U.S. in terms of total military aid in the spring, following a sharp rise in European support for Ukraine in response to Americas withdrawal under the nascent Trump administration. EU countries have allocated over $65 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, according to the Unions own tally. Additionally, several non-EU European countries are major donors, bringing up the European total.

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The numbers do not include the recently announced American weapons deliveries, which are the first large batch approved by President Donald Trumps administration, because they will be purchased by Kyiv, rather than donated.

The disparity is even greater when accounting for other forms of aid, too. Europe has allocated 167.4 billion ($196.1 billion) in government aid to Kyiv and pledged another 90 billion ($105.4 billion), according to the Kiel Institutes tracker. The U.S. has allocated and pledged 114.6 billion ($134.3 billion) and 4.35 billion ($5.1 billion), respectively.

Although Europes combined clout has consolidated to buttress Ukraine, the U.S. nonetheless remains the single largest donor. Its combined total is nearly twice that of the second-largest donor, the European Union, which has provided 60.5 billion ($70.9 billion) in financial aid and 2.7 billion ($3.2 billion) in humanitarian assistance.

The U.S. has also provided to Ukraine more infantry fighting vehicles and howitzers than any other single country, as well as multiple launch rocket systems and air defense systems. However, European tallies combined surpass the U.S. in all of these categories.

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The No. 1 European donor country is Germany, although as a portion of their gross domestic product, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia lead the pack. Denmarks aid to Ukraine amounts to 2.9% of the countrys GDP, plus a further 0.4% if EU-provided assistance is considered in the tally.

Poland has also been a significant supporter, including coming out as the No. 1 tank provider for Ukraine, having sent Kyiv a total of 354 tanks. The Netherlands has provided 104 and Denmark 94.

Kiel Institute researchers noted that many of the weapons now going to Ukraine come straight from the military-industrial output of the sending countries, rather than from preexisting stockpiles, as had been the case in the earlier days of the war.

Early on, stockpiles of weapons and gear had run low across many Western countries as the systems were rushed to the frontlines in Ukraine in defense against the Russian invasion.

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Unlike unpredictable American assistance, European support has remained consistent  and even expanded  as fighting in Ukraine dragged on into its fourth year.

In May and June 2025 alone, European governments allocated 10.5 billion ($12.3 billion) in new military assistance, of which at least 4.6 billion ($5.4 billion) is being routed through procurement contracts, rather than pulled from existing stockpiles, underscoring the growing centrality of industrial output over surplus arsenals.
Britain, France and Germany have told the United Nations they are ready to reimpose UN-mandated sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme if no diplomatic solution is found by the end of August, according to a joint letter released Wednesday.

The letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council says the three European powers are "committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon".

"Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons under any circumstances," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on X, posting a copy of the letter.

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"If Iran continues to violate its international obligations, France and its German and British partners will reimpose the global embargoes on arms, nuclear equipment and banking restrictions that were lifted 10 years ago at the end of August," Barrot added.

In the letter, the foreign ministers from the so-called E3 group threaten to use a "snapback mechanism" that was part of a 2015 international deal with Iran that eased UN Security Council sanctions.

Under the deal, which terminates in October, any party to the accord can restore the sanctions.

All three have stepped up warnings to Iran about its suspension of cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency.

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That came after Israel launched a 12-day war with Iran in June, partly seeking to destroy its nuclear capability. The United States staged its own bombing raid during the war.

"We have made clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism," said the foreign ministers of France, Britain and of Germany.

All three countries were signatories to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with the United States, China and Russia that offered the carrot and stick deal for Iran to slow its enrichment of uranium needed for a nuclear weapon.

President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the accord in 2018 during his first term and ordered new sanctions.

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The European countries said they would stick to the accord. But their letter sets out engagements that the ministers say Iran has breached, including building up a uranium stock to more than 40 times the permitted level under the 2015 deal.

"The E3 remain fully committed to a diplomatic resolution to the crisis caused by Iran's nuclear programme and will continue to engage with a view to reaching a negotiated solution.

"We are equally ready, and have unambiguous legal grounds, to notify the significant non-performance of JCPOA commitments by Iran ... thereby triggering the snapback mechanism, should no satisfactory solution be reached by the end of August 2025," the ministers wrote in the letter.

- End of cooperation -

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The United States had already started contacts with Iran, which denies seeking a weapon, over its nuclear activities.

But these were halted by the Israeli strikes in June on Iran's nuclear facilities.

Even before the strikes, the international powers had raised concerns about the lack of access given to IAEA inspectors.

Iran halted all cooperation with the IAEA after the strikes, but it announced that the agency's deputy chief was expected in Teheran for talks on a new cooperation deal.

Last month Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the UN saying that the European countries did not have the legal right to restore sanctions.

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The European ministers called this allegation "unfounded".

They insisted that as JCPOA signatories, they would be "clearly and unambiguously legally justified in using relevant provisions" of UN resolutions "to trigger UN snapback to reinstate UNSC resolutions against Iran which would prohibit enrichment and re-impose UN sanctions."

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The Ariane 6 rocket on Wednesday blasted off carrying Europe's next generation satellite for warning against extreme weather events.

As many European countries simmer in a deadly heatwave, the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) said its MetOp-SGA1 satellite will give "earlier warnings to help protect lives and property from extreme weather".

"Metop-SGA1 observations will help meteorologists improve short- and medium-term weather models that can save lives by enabling early warnings of storms, heatwaves, and other disasters, and help farmers to protect crops, grid operators to manage energy supply, and pilots and sailors to navigate safely," the agency added.

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The rocket carrying the four-tonne satellite took off from France's Kourou space base in French Guyana. MetOp-SGA1 was to be put into an 800 kilometre (500 mile) high orbit.

It will be Europe's first contribution to a US-led programme, the Joint Polar System, putting up satellites orbiting between the north and south poles.

The six monitoring instruments on the satellite are twice as precise as the agency's existing satellite, IASI. It will monitor ocean and land temperatures, water vapour and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the amount of desert dust and cloud cover.

"Extreme weather has cost Europe hundreds of billions euros and tens of thousands of lives over the past 40 years -- storms like Boris, Daniel and Hans, record heatwaves and fierce wildfires are just the latest reminders," said Phil Evans, EUMETSAT director-general.

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"The launch of Metop-SGA1 is a major step forward in giving national weather services in our member states sharper tools to save lives, protect property, and build resilience against the climate crisis."

The liftoff was the third by Ariane 6 since its inaugural flight in July last year.

The Ariane company said that it had 32 launches planned from Kourou in coming years and that it was aiming to carry out nine or 10 launches each year.

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A series of commemorative events to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day are set to take place across Bradford.

VJ Day, or Victory over Japan Day, is commemorated on 15 August each year, and marks the date in 1945 when Japan surrendered to the Allied forces, ending World War Two.

The first event - Celebrating Bradford VJ Day - will take place at Fountains Church later, while services of remembrance will be held in Bradford, Ilkley and Keighley on Friday.

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Lord Mayor of Bradford Mohammed Shafiq said: "It is important that we take this opportunity to remember the sacrifices that people made and those who have gone before us."

"I hope as many people as possible will attend the events or take time to stop what they are doing and take part in the national two minutes silence at noon on Friday," he added.

The service of Remembrance in Bradford will take place at Bradford Cenotaph at from 11:45 BST.

Led by Reverend Canon Ned Lunn from Bradford Cathedral and attended by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, it will include the national two-minutes silence.

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VJ Day falls more than three months after VE Day, when fighting stopped in Europe following Germany's surrender.

An estimated 71,000 soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth died fighting in Japan, including upwards of 12,000 prisoners of war held in Japanese captivity.

Joanne Dodds, Bradford Council's Armed Forces Champion, said: "Everyone is welcome to attend any of the events to show support for the Armed Forces veterans.

"VJ Day is a time to remember the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of those who fought for peace and freedom."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

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A permit to climb the worlds tallest mountain costs an eye-popping $15,000  and thats before you add in the price of airfare, gear and a guide.

But Nepal, which has long sought to diversify its tourism offerings beyond showpiece Mount Everest, has come up with a new plan to attract travelers to less expensive, less visited regions of the country.

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The government announced its opening up 97 peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim, two states in far western Nepal, to international climbers for free.

There are so many mountains (in Nepal), Himal Gautam, a director in the Nepal Tourism Department, told CNN.

Until now the government of Nepal has opened 462 mountains for commercial expedition. Out of them 102 mountains are still virgin, they are waiting for the first climbers. He did not specify exactly which mountains are unclimbed.

Gautam added that due to the regions remoteness and poverty, those mountains have not been marketed properly.

Karnali and Sudurpaschim border the Indian state of Uttarakhand on one side and Chinas Tibet region on the other.

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Gautam said that permits to climb these Himalayan peaks will be free for the next two climbing seasons. After that, the government will re-evaluate the plan. Seventy-seven of the mountains are in Karnali, and the other 20 are in Sudurpaschim.

The government of Nepal wants to disseminate to the global mountaineering community that so many alluring and worth-climbing mountains are located in those two provinces. And there are many more other touristic destinations (there), said Gautam.

Getting travelers to these areas isnt easy. Sudurpaschim is 535 kilometers (330 miles) from Kathmandu, and Karnali is about 400 kilometers (250 miles) away. Both require three-hour flights from the capital. Once in Sudurpaschim and Karnali, roads are challenging and amenities sparse.

Tourism is big business in Nepal.

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The country welcomed 1.15 million international tourists in 2024, and the tourism industry employs more than one million Nepalis.

Overcrowding at the worlds tallest mountain has caused increasing problems in recent decades. As a result, Nepal  which is home to eight of the worlds 14 highest peaks  has made efforts to crack down on the number of unprepared climbers on Everest while redirecting tourists to other parts of the country.

The price of climbing permits went up 36% earlier this year, up from $11,000. And now, would-be Everest climbers must show proof that they have previously scaled at least one 7,000-meter-plus mountain in Nepal.

Several of the mountains on the new free-to-climb list fit the bill, offering an opportunity to practice, explore and set records.

EDITORS NOTE: CNNs Esha Mitra contributed reporting.

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(The Center Square)  Gov. Tony Evers is blaming the Trump Administration for a potential $29 million funding cut that Evers says will block Wisconsin from completing the process of modernizing its unemployment insurance system.

Evers wrote a letter to U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer on Tuesday, stating that without the funds the state will not be able to complete its UI system modernization project, which is designed to use innovative tools to help efficiently and effectively prevent benefit fraud and abuse.

Evers said the current systems issues were multiplied during the COVID-19 pandemic when unemployment claims exploded and the systems flaws were exposed. The Department of Workforce Development handled 7.2 million claims between 2016 and 2019 and, in just nine months in 2020, DWD processed nearly 8.8 million claims.

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Wisconsinites were forced to weather yet another economic crisis under the same outdated system that had caused problems and delays for years, Evers said in a statement. The fact of the matter is that previous administrations and more than a decades worth of legislators knew Wisconsins unemployment system was outdated and could not handle an economic crisis like the one precipitated by the pandemic, but they never took the time to fix it.

Evers said that the American Rescue Plan Act funding that was canceled included $11.25 million to create a state-of-the-art web-based and mobile employer portal, including secure communications infrastructure to reduce improper payments and fraud, along with $6.3 million to prevent and detect fraud, ensure program integrity and improve cybersecurity and overpayment collections.

The funding also included $6.8 million to modernize written communication with all UI customers along with $4.5 million to implement identity authentication and identity proofing tools along with updating the application process and increase automation for case scheduling.

I am requesting your immediate attention and action to not only prevent years of sustained progress from being reversed but to help ensure Wisconsin retains our ability to successfully and effectively prevent benefit fraud, waste, and abusean interest I understood President Trump and his administration to purportedly share, Evers wrote.
MADISON  Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has requested federal disaster aid as communities continue to recover from massive storms and historic flooding in the Milwaukee area over the weekend.

Evers submitted a request Aug. 13 for Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, to work with the state on a formal federal preliminary damage assessment.

The governor's request follows a report from Wisconsin Emergency Management that initial reviews of damage suggest the state will meet the threshold for federal assistance. That report allowed Evers to ask FEMA for the formal assessment, which moves the state closer to the possibility of receiving a formal presidential disaster declaration and federal disaster relief.

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"Disastrous storms and flash flooding across our state in recent days have displaced kids and families and damaged homes, businesses, community centers, and so much more. The damage caused by recent extreme weather is extensive, and its going to take significant time and resources to recover, repair infrastructure, and help support the folks and communities who have been affected. Its clear we will need additional federal resources and support to do so," Evers said in a statement. "It is absolutely critical that Wisconsin receives every available federal resource to ensure we can adequately respond and help our local communities rebuild. I am requesting urgent federal assistance and aid from FEMA to support our recovery efforts for Wisconsinites, communities, and our state."

Milwaukee and other parts of Wisconsin were hit with massive volumes of rain Aug. 9 and 10, leading to flash flooding, power outages and a slew of closures and cancellations.

Parts of Milwaukee saw more than 10 inches of rain in less than 24 hours in what is classified as a 1,000-year flood event.

FEMA's assistance is initiated by an official request made by a state, tribal or territorial government. FEMA does not automatically respond to every disaster, according to the agency website. A state can make a formal request for federal assistance without a formal state emergency declaration.

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However, making a state emergency declaration doesn't necessarily mean FEMA will provide federal support. To receive federal aid once a state declaration is made, damage must exceed a certain threshold.

Evers' response to the flooding has included making National Guard resources available at the request of Milwaukee County and declaring a state of emergency. The governor has also toured storm damage in Wauwatosa and Milwaukee with local officials.

The emergency declaration ensures "state agencies, local partners, utilities, and emergency management officials can continue working together and respond quickly to damage and effects caused by the recent severe weather," according to the goveror's office. Multiple fire services, law enforcement, public works, utilities, volunteer organizations and other emergency response agencies have assisted with recovery efforts.

Milwaukee County is encouraging community members to call 211 to report property damage, such as flooded basements, collapsed wall or lighting-related incidents in the county.

Jessie Opoien can be reached at jessie.opoien@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Evers requests FEMA review, federal disaster aid for Milwaukee floods
A Norfolk Superior Court judge ordered prosecutors in the case of Myles King to finish turning over all the evidence in their possession by the end of September, as a defense lawyer for King continues to push to dismiss the case entirely.

King is charged with murder in connection with the death of Marquis Simmons in July 2021 in Milton. His case has taken a turn in recent months as his lawyer, Rosemary Scapicchio, has sought to dismiss it over what she claims is the late turnover of key evidence by prosecutors.

Norfolk County prosecutors have continued disclosing evidence in the case, much of which Scapicchio claims is new, as recently as July, despite King being indicted in 2021. His trial was scheduled for September, but a judge took the case off the trial list and King has been out on bail since June.

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Scapicchio filed the motion to dismiss in May, but supplemented it this week based on the new evidence. Prosecutors asked Judge Peter Krupp to deny the initial motion, but Krupp declined to do so.

If [recent] notices of discovery were one item or two items, I would get it, I would understand the argument, he said. But theyre voluminous, theyre pages and pages and pages of stuff.

This is all newly discovered stuff that, if it was available, should have been produced a while ago, he added.

Now, Krupp has set a September deadline for prosecutors to finish turning over all the evidence they have, which will allow Scapicchio to give him a better understanding of what evidence was turned over late and why she believes it prejudices King.

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Outside the courthouse on Tuesday, she described Krupps order as a major step forward.

We made significant progress today, she said, explaining that once prosecutors file what is known as a certificate of compliance, she can give Krupp an inventory of all the new evidence and an explanation as to why it is prejudicial. Were in a better position than we were when we first walked in this court.

Krupp set an October hearing for arguments on Scapicchios motion to dismiss. At that hearing, he said, both sides should be ready to set a trial date.

That means King almost certainly wont go to trial until 2026, despite being indicted in 2021.

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Its all at the fault of the commonwealth, Scapicchio said. This all lies on their lap because they didnt do their job.

The motion to dismiss Kings case was the subject of a brief evidentiary hearing last month that saw Norfolk County prosecutor Adam Lally, the original assistant district attorney in Kings case, take the stand. Scapicchio has also subpoenaed former Massachusetts State Police trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in Kings case, to testify at that hearing.

Its not clear at this point when that hearing will resume, but Scapicchio argued it was a necessary step to get to the bottom of why some evidence wasnt turned over for years. It was only after a new prosecutor took over the case that Scapicchio began receiving some evidence, like search warrants obtained by Proctor, even though prosecutors are required to disclose that material.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for Oct. 31.

More News

Read the original article on MassLive.
DENVER (KDVR)  The Burlington police chiefs three-year-old daughter was killed in a dog attack by a former sheriffs K-9 on Monday.

When the Kit Carson County Sheriff and a deputy arrived at the scene, they found the mother and an unresponsive three-year-old child in a backyard. The dog was not actively attacking, the sheriffs office said, and was secure in a kennel.

Police want to know who dumped a dog, 6-month-old puppy near Pioneer Elementary

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EMS took the child to Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital, where she received care, but ultimately was declared dead. The Burlington Police Department said in a press release that Chief Nate Hills daughter was the victim of the dog attack.

While the Kit Carson County Sheriffs Office is conducting the investigation, we want to assure the community that there is no ongoing threat to public safety, the Burlington agency reported. This was a tragic accident and not a criminal matter.

The Kit Carson County Sheriffs Office said that the dog involved was a German Shepherd that had previously been in service with the Cheyenne County Sheriffs Office as a narcotics detection dog. The dog was not trained in bite work, the Kit Carson agency reported, and had been donated to the Burlington Police Department, but said the dog was not actively in service.

Hill had been housing the dog at his home at the time of the attack.

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Search underway for missing Nebraska man at Rocky Mountain National Park

The sheriffs office said that the dog was taken to the Burlington Dog Pound and later humanely euthanized.

This is a very tragic situation, affecting this community as a whole, the Kit Carson County Sheriffs Office said. Please respect the family in their time of mourning.

The case 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 FOX31 Denver.
The Brief

A new lawsuit claims a CPS security guard who was charged with raping a 15-year-old student should never have been hired.

The lawsuit claims that Romel Campoverde was arrested 16 times over 20 years but was still able to land his job at CPS.

"They dropped the ball. They were lazy," said the plaintiff's attorney.

CHICAGO - He had 16 arrests over 20 years but was still able to land a job as a Chicago Public Schools security guard.

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And while working security at Farragut Career Academy, Romel Campoverde was charged with allegedly raping a 15-year-old female student.

Now, that former student is suing CPS, alleging the district failed to conduct a proper background check.

What we know

The explosive allegations are contained in a civil lawsuit filed Tuesday against CPS and the former security guard, who is still awaiting trial.

The attorney for the now 18-year-old victim said CPS failed to follow through on its own background check policies.

"They dropped the ball. They were lazy," said attorney Mark Brown, who filed the lawsuit on behalf of "Jane Doe."

Romel Campoverde (Provided to Fox 32)

In July 2023, Romel Campoverde, 45, was charged with 11 counts of sexual assault for allegedly raping a then-15-year-old female student at Farragut, where Campoverde was employed as a security guard.

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"It started when she was a freshman. It started with grooming behaviors," said Brown. "It started with Lets text.'"

Chicago police said during one of the meetups, Campoverde gave the girl six alcoholic drinks, then sexually assaulted her in the back of his RV.

Brown said she is still living with the trauma of that attack.

"She's really going through a difficult time. She still has nightmares and flashbacks of what happened," Brown said.

The backstory

In the lawsuit filed Tuesday, the former student says Campoverde had an extensive criminal history and never should have been hired in the first place.

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Her attorney provided Fox 32 with copies of 16 police reports from between 2000 and 2020 in which Campoverde was charged with multiple crimes, including battery and aggravated assault with a weapon. All of the charges occurred before he was hired as a security guard by CPS.

"In some of the police reports, in one of them we saw Mr. Campoverde was a self-admitted street gang member of the Satan Disciples. In another (Freedom of Information) request we found from CPD, that he was a documented gang member," said Brown.

Brown said it's clear that in doing its background check on Campoverde, CPS only looked at his arrest record and the outcomes of the cases. Some of those cases were dismissed or pleaded down.

Brown said CPS never requested the underlying police reports or dug any deeper, which goes against the district's own background check policy.

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"CPS hired a self-admitted gang member with a 20-year arrest history, 16 arrests, violent actions that he's taken against numerous people and he groomed and raped a 15-year-old girl. It's a travesty," said Brown.

What's next

More than two years after Campoverde was initially charged, the case drags on. Campoverde is due in court for a status hearing at the end of the month.

A spokesperson for the district said CPS "...remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students" but can't comment on pending litigation.
Aug. 12By Paul Walsh, Star Tribune (TNS)

Former Minnesota Republican operative Anton "Tony" Lazzaro is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review his trafficking conviction for paying five 15- to 16-year-old girls for sex.

Lazzaro, 34, was sentenced in August 2023 to 21 years in federal prison and is being held at the Sandstone Federal Correctional Institution with an August 2039 release date.

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The U.S. Supreme Court last week notified the U.S. Court of Appeals of Lazzaro's petition to have his case heard by the nation's highest bench. Lazzaro lost his effort in February to have the appeals court overturn his conviction.

The day before he was scheduled to be sentenced, and more than four months after the jury returned its verdict, Lazzaro filed a motion with the appeals court for a new trial, asserting that the jurors had been dishonest when answering questions during the selection process. He contended that one juror failed to disclose family members who were victims of sexual assault and worked for sexual assault advocacy organizations, while another juror was a supporter of the #MeToo movement.

Lazzaro also alleged without success that the prosecution had engaged in prosecutorial misconduct by misrepresenting the "actual context of the communications" surrounding a photograph he sent to convicted co-defendant Gisela Castro Medina and her female friend.

Even before Lazzaro went on trial, he wrote to Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz that he was being selectively prosecuted by the government. He claimed his was the only one at the time among hundreds of commercial sex trafficking cases in recent years in Minnesota to be pursued in federal court and not in state court, where the potential sentence is far less severe.

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Lazzaro faces long odds that the nation's highest court will hear his case. According to the National Association of Attorneys General, the Supreme Court "grants an astonishingly small percentage" of what are formally known as writs of certiorari.

Lazzaro's 2021 arrest proved an embarrassment for the Minnesota Republican Party, for which he had become a major donor. Jennifer Carnahan, who had close ties to Lazzaro but denied any knowledge of his criminal activities, stepped down as state GOP chair a week after his arrest.

In handing down the sentence, Schiltz recounted how Lazzaro sought out emotionally vulnerable girls  physically small, unsophisticated and alienated  and lured them with expensive gifts such as a $1,300 Prada purse. He sometimes sent them photos showing his wealth and connections to famous and powerful people, and impressed them with the private elevator that took them to his floor.

Schiltz also noted that Lazzaro gave the girls an especially potent liquor to get them as drunk as possible. Some got so drunk, the judge said, they could not control their bodies, much less exercise good judgment.

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Lazzaro maintained the sexual acts were consensual, but Schiltz said the premise of the federal sex trafficking statute is that children under the age of 18 are incapable of consenting to being sex trafficked.

Two women are suing the onetime operators of the luxury downtown Minneapolis hotel and condo building alleging its staff "were integral" in accommodating Lazzaro's repeated sex trafficking when they were teenagers.
SPRINGFIELD  A Holyoke man working as a librarian for Longmeadow Public Schools was charged with distribution of child sex abuse materials in U.S. District Court on Wednesday afternoon.

Agents searched Scott McGinleys home last week, allegedly recovering child sex abuse materials, as well as a locked case that included childrens underwear, diapers and diaper cream, among other items, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

McGinley, 55, was a middle school librarian at Glenbrook and Williams Middle schools until he filed for retirement benefits on Tuesday.

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McGinley appeared in federal court Wednesday afternoon in shorts and a T-shirt after he turned himself in earlier in the day.

Defense attorney Daniel D. Kelly readily agreed to a number of strict conditions of release for his client, including a prohibition on any electronic devices with internet access, house arrest with a GPS monitor, no out-of-state travel and immediately relinquishing his passport.

Mr. McGinley is happy to agree with each and every one of those conditions, Kelly told U.S. Magistrate Judge Katherine Robertson.

The judge noted that the defendant appeared to be prepared to take responsibility, though no more details about that were disclosed during the hearing.

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Longmeadow Public Schools Superintendent Marty OShea informed families within the district Wednesday that the librarian was charged.

Mr. McGinley worked at Glenbrook and Williams from Aug. 24, 2016, until Aug. 12, 2025, OShea said in a letter to families. The press release describes a highly troubling and disturbing criminal matter. Longmeadow Public Schools is cooperating fully and openly with all law enforcement agencies and has been in communication with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families and the Longmeadow police.

McGinley distributed child sex abuse materials to a group called Little boyz only on an encrypted messenger app, Foleys office said.

An undercover agent pretending to be a user on the app contacted McGinley, who then told the agent that his sexual preference was for boys age 2-12 and especially 4-7, Foleys office said. He then told the agent that he had students who were 11 to 14 years old but (hadnt) touched them sexually, and he sat hot boys strategically so (he could) see under their desks, and close to (him). He also made graphic sexual statements about the boys.

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FBI searches on Friday also yielded the recovery of two iPhones, an Apple Watch, a tablet and two laptops, U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foleys office said. Inside a locked Pelican case in the basement were several items for children between 5 and 7 years old.

The items inside included childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream, boys underwear, bedding and apple sauce packets, Foleys office said. A forensic examination of McGinleys phone also found over 100 files that depict child sex abuse.

McGinleys devices continue to be reviewed by investigators, Foleys office added.

The charge of distribution of child sex abuse materials could yield a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison.

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OShea said his letter would be the first in a series of communications from the district on this distressing situation.

I have asked local law enforcement, representatives of the U.S. Attorneys Office and the FBI to join me and school officials at in-person and remotely accessible informational meetings. Additional details on these events will be forthcoming, OShea said.

School counselors, social workers and administrators will be available to support students and staff who need to talk or process what they are experiencing.

Our highest priority is and always will be student safety and well-being, OShea wrote. LPS has policies and protocols in place to protect students through student education, staff training and the use of background checks and mandatory reporting. At this time, I am sharing all of the information available to me.

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He continued: Our community has always shown strength in difficult times. I have no doubt that we will come together now with the same care and resilience to support one another.

McGinleys LinkedIn profile shows multiple teaching and librarian positions over the past 24 years in the Amherst and Springfield school districts, where he worked with preschoolers, kindergarteners, elementary students and high schoolers.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
A Surrey councillor has urged the prime minister to intervene and drop the government's plan to house only single males at Stanwell Hotel.

Med Buck said on Wednesday he sent a letter to No 10 on behalf of residents, calling on Sir Keir Starmer to "listen to Stanwell residents" and find a housing solution that "protects both vulnerable people and maintain community safety".

Earlier this month, the Home Office halted plans to house male-only asylum seekers in the hotel.

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Mr Buck said: "Residents have raised serious concerns about safety, community cohesion, and wellbeing, which he believes need immediate and careful attention."

He added: "This letter is our formal request asking for urgent intervention to stop the housing of male-only asylum seekers in the Stanwell hotel."

Mr Buck, former mayor of Spelthorne, also highlighted that while the community has a strong record of welcoming asylum seekers, including families currently living at the hotel, the new approach "creates unnecessary tension".

"Our residents have helped asylum-seeking families settle in, supported their children at the local school, and made them feel part of the community," he added.

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"But concentrating only young single males in one place, without the balance of families and diversity, risks upsetting that harmony and placing pressure on local services."

On 7 August, Spelthorne Borough Council passed a motion calling for the Home Office to reconsider its plans.

On Wednesday, the local authority said it was working closely with Home Office regarding the future use of Stanwell Hotel, but that the government would make the final decision.

Council leader Joanne Sexton said the council recognised "significant concerns expressed by residents".

"However, we were also mindful that the previous government entered into a contractual arrangement with the owners of the Stanwell Hotel," she added.

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"The agreed motion sends a clear and united message we do not support the proposed change in use of the hotel and any decisions must take full account of the impact on the community."

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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A retired Chicago-area cop expressed frustration with Mayor Brandon Johnsons refusal to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"What's happening in Chicago and actually the state of Illinois, but I'll talk to you about Chicago, is they're under orders from the mayor not to cooperate with ICE. In fact, he famously said that the Chicago Police Department will never assist ICE, even if it's constitutionally required," Tom Weitzel, who was chief of police in Riverside, Illinois , told Fox News Digital.

Weitzel served as police chief in the Chicago suburb, less than an hour outside the city, from January 2008 to May 2021.

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House Speaker Johnson Tours Ice Facility, Says Chicago Mayor Is 'On The Wrong Side Of The Law'

A retired Chicago-area cop says he is frustrated and outraged by Mayor Brandon Johnsons refusal to cooperate with ICE.

In July, Johnson vowed that his citys police "will not ever cooperate with ICE ." He also recently called ICE raids "terrorism," and described Trumps America as looking like "if the Confederacy won."

"He's had his city attorneys go and brief the administrative staff or Chicago PD, and then they're going to roll call to tell their officers how they cannot assist," Weitzel said. "And the dangerous thing with that is that he's telling them to never assist. So even when ICE would need more police officers because they're under attack, they're being assaulted, maybe they're being battered. He's directed his police department to not cooperate, which is unheard of. I've actually never heard of that."

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The retired police chief said he thinks morale among law enforcement in the city is low.

"And morale is terrible because the media keeps slamming them," Weitzel continued. "You have the local politicians slamming the police, and you have the mayor, the chief of the whole government for the city of Chicago. He, if anyone thinks he supports police or policing, they are crazy. The mayor is about as anti-police as they come. And you know, nobody should be surprised because he ran on that campaign, and he got elected."

Chicago has seen over 51,000 illegal immigrants from the southern border settle into the city since August 31, 2022.

Mayor Johnson Warns Trump Against Deploying Federal Troops For Immigration Crackdown In Chicago

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As someone who spent 37 years in law enforcement, starting out as a patrol officer for the Chicago Zoological Park Police, in Brookfield, Illinois, and holding various other positions in law enforcement, including being a detective sergeant, patrol sergeant, assistant chief of police, acting chief of police, and finally, chief of police," Weitzel said he is concerned for the well-being of the Chicago PD.

"They're going to get police officers hurt, not only ICE agents, federal agents, but local police that are going to be injured, because I can tell you that when there's an attack on them that you've seen that, throughout the country, that some of their caravans have been attacked, the local police are coming to help," he said.

Weitzel added that, "Regardless of what the mayor says, and those officers are there not to do ICE enforcement or federal enforcement, they're there to assist ICE and prevent them from getting injured. So you're going to see his own local police officers be injured in the line of duty because of a completely stupid statement like they will never assist ICE."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has called the Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids "terrorism," and said that Trumps America looks as "if the Confederacy won."

Fox News Digital reached out to Johnson for comment, but did not immediately receive a response.





Original article source: Ex-police chief warns Chicago cops will get hurt because Mayor Johnson wont help ICE
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss Russias ongoing war against Ukraine.

The U.S. military location, whose selection two White House officials revealed to CNN, houses an Air Force base and an Army fort, which merged in 2010. The summit will occur there and not in Russia, as Trump had said on Mondaytwice.

The site, in Alaskas most populous city, was the only suitable option, organizers said, even though the White House hadnt been keen on the visuals of welcoming Putin to a U.S. military base, according to CNN.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage houses an Air Force base and an Army fort. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images

The White House did not immediately respond to a Daily Beast inquiry about the optics of doing so.

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Last week, the Trump administration had reportedly been discussing the possibility of inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the summit as well. But Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who announced earlier Tuesday that Anchorage would host the summit without specifying where, said at Tuesdays press briefing that Zelensky would not be present.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson was selected as the site of the summit, despite the White House seeking to avoid the optics of having Putin on a military site. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images

Zelensky wrote in a social media post last week in response to those reports: Ukraine is not afraid of meetings and expects the same brave approach from the Russian side. It is time we ended the war. Thank you to everyone who is helping."

Late last month, Trump moved up his deadline for Putin to agree to a ceasefire deal. That date has since come and gone.

The last time Putin had an in-person meeting with a U.S. president was in Geneva in 2021. That was his only such encounter with Joe Biden during his four years in office, and it occurred a year before Russia invaded Ukraine.

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Trump, who repeatedly said while campaigning for president that he would end the war on his first day in office or even sooner, met Putin several times during his first term, most infamously in Helsinki in 2018.

Trump accepted Putin's denial of 2016 election interference, despite U.S. intelligence finding otherwise. / YURI KADOBNOV / AFP via Getty Images

There, Trump said he believed Putins denial that Russia had interfered in the 2016 presidential election, which is what Trumps own intelligence agencies had concluded.
By Catarina Demony and Sam Tabahriti

LONDON (Reuters) -A month before she was stabbed to death by her ex-boyfriend, Bethany Fields walked into a police station in northern England to report his abusive and controlling behaviour. He had threatened to kill her, but she was not assessed as high risk.

Fields is among many domestic abuse victims failed by risk assessments based on a form known as DASH used by Britain's overstretched police forces, social workers and others for more than 15 years, according to two academic studies, several women's charities and victims' relatives.

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"To get that form right literally means the difference between life and death," said Bethany's mother, Pauline Jones.

The charity which co-developed the form, SafeLives, has now been tasked by the government with a project which its CEO Ellen Miller described as examining the way to see "how a review could work through, how a bigger rewrite could happen".

"We know so much more now, that it needs to evolve, it needs to change," Miller said, confirming a project that is yet to be publicly announced.

DASH had saved many lives, she said, adding that it should be rewritten rather than replaced and that it was up to police to use it properly.

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"The problem is not the DASH. The problem is police officers' values and behaviours," she said.

A report by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) into Fields' murder, published online in April this year, said the officer conducting the assessment was inexperienced to undertake such a sensitive assignment and lacked supervision; it also questioned the DASH form.

Those filling in the DASH (Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Honour-Based Violence Assessment) tick: "yes", "no", or "don't know" - sometimes labelled "other" - in response to questions about possible abuse.

The IOPC said the third option reduced the chances of officers pinning down a potential yes. That in turn reduces the chances of getting enough ticks for the assessment of high risk that triggers a referral for extra support.

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Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women's Aid, said the DASH tool was "deeply flawed".

Researchers from the Universities of Manchester and Seville found the DASH "performs poorly at identifying high-risk victims", with 96.3% of such cases being wrongly assessed as standard (low) or medium risk in their study of 350,000 incidents logged by an unnamed major UK police force.

SafeLives did not respond to a request for comment on the statistic, published in Madrid-based journal Psychosocial Intervention in 2022.

The British system is not the only one to come under scrutiny. Spain's interior ministry said in January it had updated its gender violence management system to make it more effective; in June, it said British officials had visited to find out more.

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Britain's interior ministry did not respond to a request for comment for this article. It has said reducing violence against women and girls is a priority and that it plans to publish a new strategy on the issue.

MISTAKES

In the year ending March 2024, there were 108 domestic homicides, of which 83 of the victims were female.

Reuters was not able to establish how many of those deaths followed DASH risk assessments or what those had concluded but found other deaths in which an assessment had been undertaken.

Seventeen weeks pregnant, Fawziyah Javed was pushed to her death from the top of the Arthur's Seat hill in Edinburgh in 2021. Her mother, Yasmin Javed, told Reuters her daughter had reported her husband's violent and controlling behaviour to the police.

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Officers told her she was medium risk and despite the risk factor of being pregnant and a visit from police six days before she died, she was never referred for high risk support, her mother said, adding: "These mistakes are costing lives."

Contacted for comment, police said only that the IOPC is still investigating the force's response.

Both Javed's husband and Fields' ex-partner were convicted of killing them.

When asked about fatalities after DASH assessments, Miller said: "I think the DASH could always be better," adding that it was up to police to safeguard people from the risk of death in their recruitment and training.

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Her hope, she said, was that a "refreshed DASH" would be used adequately in every case.

OTHER OPTIONS

The interior ministry has asked other charities to help SafeLives "bring together insights" into the systems for assessing and managing risk in the country, a letter from the ministry to one of them who asked to remain anonymous showed.

Several charities contacted by Reuters said they feared the project would not go far enough.

Ngozi Fulani, CEO of Sistah Space, a charity supporting victims from African and Caribbean heritage, said the DASH may not be effective for many in those communities, due to mistrust of police linked to institutional racism.

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"They chose to leave us out, that speaks for itself," she said, referring to the fact they have so far not been asked to contribute to the project.

The Spanish police and some organisations are using new technology to assess future risk: Berlin-based startup Frontline has a machine learning risk assessment and British data scientist and former police officer Tori Olphin has created an algorithmic model to predict future harm, for example.

The College of Policing, a professional body for police in England and Wales, has developed its own tool, DARA, with Cardiff University Professor Amanda Robinson, to address what she says are some of DASH's flaws, particularly around coercive control, which only became a criminal offence there in 2015.

A police representative said they would assess all the available tools.

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"Police officers must be supported with the right training and tools to identify offences and protect victims," said Assistant Chief Constable Claire Bell, Deputy Director of the National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls and Public Protection.

(Reporting by Catarina Demony and Sam Tabahriti; Editing by Philippa Fletcher)
By Fanny Potkin, Karen Freifeld and Jun Yuan Yong

SINGAPORE/NEW YORK (Reuters) -U.S. authorities have secretly placed location tracking devices in targeted shipments of advanced chips they see as being at high risk of illegal diversion to China, according to two people with direct knowledge of the previously unreported law enforcement tactic.

The measures aim to detect AI chips being diverted to destinations which are under U.S. export restrictions, and apply only to select shipments under investigation, the people said.

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They show the lengths to which the U.S. has gone to enforce its chip export restrictions on China, even as the Trump administration has sought to relax some curbs on Chinese access to advanced American semiconductors.

The trackers can help build cases against people and companies who profit from violating U.S. export controls, said the people, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue.

Location trackers are a decades-old investigative tool used by U.S. law enforcement agencies to track products subject to export restrictions, such as airplane parts. They have been used to combat the illegal diversion of semiconductors in recent years, one source said.

Five other people actively involved in the AI server supply chain say they are aware of the use of the trackers in shipments of servers from manufacturers such as Dell and Super Micro, which include chips from Nvidia and AMD.

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Those people said the trackers are typically hidden in the packaging of the server shipments. They did not know which parties were involved in installing them and where along the shipping route they were inserted.

Reuters was not able to determine how often the trackers have been used in chip-related investigations or when U.S. authorities started using them to investigate chip smuggling. The U.S. started restricting the sale of advanced chips by Nvidia, AMD and other manufacturers to China in 2022.

In one 2024 case described by two of the people involved in the server supply chain, a shipment of Dell servers with Nvidia chips included both large trackers on the shipping boxes and smaller, more discreet devices hidden inside the packaging  and even within the servers themselves.

A third person said they had seen images and videos of trackers being removed by other chip resellers from Dell and Super Micro servers. The person said some of the larger trackers were roughly the size of a smartphone.

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The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, which oversees export controls and enforcement, is typically involved, and Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation may take part too, said the sources.

The HSI and FBI both declined to comment. The Commerce Department did not respond to requests for comment.

The Chinese foreign ministry said it was not aware of the matter.

Super Micro said in a statement that it does not disclose its security practices and policies in place to protect our worldwide operations, partners, and customers. It declined to comment on any tracking actions by U.S. authorities.

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Dell said it is not aware of a U.S. Government initiative to place trackers in its product shipments.

Nvidia said, "We don't install secret tracking devices in our products."

AMD did not answer a request for comment.

CHIP RESTRICTIONS

The United States, which dominates the global AI chip supply chain, has sought to limit exports of chips and other technology to China in recent years to restrain its military modernization. It has also restricted the sale of chips to Russia to undercut war efforts against Ukraine.

The White House and both houses of Congress have proposed requiring U.S. chip firms to include location verification technology with their chips to prevent them from being diverted to countries where U.S. export regulations restrict sales.

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China has slammed the U.S. exports curbs as part of a campaign to suppress its rise and criticized the location tracking proposal. Last month, China's powerful cyberspace regulator summoned Nvidia to a meeting to express its concerns over the risks of its chips containing "backdoors" that would allow remote access or control, which the company has strongly denied.

In January, Reuters reported the U.S. had traced organized AI chip smuggling to China via countries such as Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE  but it is unclear if tracking devices were involved.

The use of trackers by U.S. law enforcement goes back decades. In 1985, Hughes Aircraft shipped equipment subject to U.S. export controls, according to a court decision reviewed by Reuters. Executing a search warrant, the U.S. Customs Service intercepted the crate at a Houston airport and installed a tracking device, the decision noted.

U.S. export enforcement agents sometimes install trackers after getting administrative approval. Other times they get a judge to issue a warrant authorizing use of the device, one source said. With a warrant, it is easier to use the information as evidence in a criminal case.

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A company may be told about the tracker, if it is not a subject of the investigation, and may consent to the governments installation of the trackers, the source added. But the devices can be installed without their knowledge.

People involved in diverting export-controlled chip and server shipments to China said they were aware of the devices.

Two of the supply chain sources, who are China-based resellers of export-controlled chips, said they regularly took care to inspect diverted shipments of AI chip servers for the trackers due to the risks of the devices being embedded.

An affidavit filed with a U.S Department of Justice complaint regarding the arrests of two Chinese nationals charged with illegally shipping tens of millions of dollars' worth of AI chips to China earlier this month describes one co-conspirator instructing another to check for trackers on Quanta H200 servers, which contain Nvidia chips.

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It said the English-language text was sent by a co-conspirator, whose name was redacted, to one of the defendants, Yang Shiwei.

Pay attention to see if there is a tracker on it, you must look for it carefully," said the person, who went on to call the Trump administration by an obscenity. "Who knows what they will do."

(Reporting by Fanny Potkin and Jun Yuan Yong in Singapore, Karen Freifeld in New York; Additional reporting by China newsroom; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
ST. LOUIS  A new exhibit about the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black fighter pilots deployed overseas to fight during World War II, is on display at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum in downtown St. Louis.

The exhibit called Tuskegee Airmen: Americas Freedom Flyers tells an incredible story of the inspiring aviators who broke racial barriers and earned their wings during the 1940s amid segregation and discrimination.

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It also tells the story of the thousands of men and women who worked unrelentingly to keep the airmen who achieved remarkable success during the war in the air.

The exhibit features documents, artifacts, a P-51 model fighter plane emblazoned with a distinctive fiery redtail; and a special section for Hometown Heroes.

The area includes 91 images of Tuskegee Airmen from the St. Louis area and their stories. Many were from Sumner and Vashon high schools and East St. Louis.

Mystery sky sighting could be dumped rocket fuel

The exhibit will be on display through Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025. It is free and open to the public.

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Everyone, including students, is invited to visit the exhibit. Visitors will also notice something new outside the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum.

A part of Chestnut Street, which runs in front of Soldiers Memorial, has been renamed Tuskegee Airmen Way in honor of one of the U.S. militarys most iconic groups of fighter pilots.

Tuskegee Airmen: Americas Freedom Flyers is a traveling exhibit presented by NOLAWorld Music & Artwerks in partnership with the Hugh J. White Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. in St. Louis.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Artificial turf might look low-maintenance, but it can get hotter than asphalt and is made with chemicals that never go away.

In a TikTok video, plastics expert Beatrice the Anti-Plastic Lady (@antiplasticlady) says all synthetic turf contains PFAS, or toxic "forever chemicals," linked to cancer and other health issues.

She breaks down how turf companies use misleading testing and greenwashing to cover it up.

"Synthetic turf companies know that their products are toxic and they go to great lengths to lie to you," she says in the video.

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These chemicals don't break down in the environment, and she explains they're found not just in one part of the turf, but throughout the manufacturing process.

"You cannot make synthetic turf without PFAS. Literally, it's in the patent."

Beatrice points to testing done on the old AstroTurf at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia, where researchers found 16 different PFAS. She also mentions that six former Phillies players who played on that turf died from brain cancer.

PFAS are linked to several other serious health issues, including kidney, testicular, and breast cancer, plus some autoimmune disorders.

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The video also calls out how turf companies claim their products are safe, but Beatrice says those claims rely on flawed testing.

She lists tactics like using outdated methods, setting detection limits too high, and testing solid turf the same way you'd test a liquid sample.

"There has never been a type of PFAS that has tested PFAS-free," she says. "Not one."

Synthetic turf gets much hotter than natural grass, doesn't support pollinators, and breaks down into microplastics over time.

A position statement from Mount Sinai's Exposomics lab found that artificial turf can reach surface temperatures of about 160 degrees Fahrenheit, which puts kids at risk of heat stress and chemical exposure.

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The statement also raises concerns about the lack of long-term safety research or planning, especially as turf use expands into public spaces.

Natural options like native plants, buffalo grass, clover, and xeriscaping don't come with the same risks. They're often cheaper to maintain in the long run, don't need as much water, and provide food and shelter for pollinators  which helps protect our food system. Even swapping out part of a yard can make a huge difference.

"I don't understand how this video isn't more viral," one user commented on the video. "Thank you for always posting. This is extremely important information."

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.
Wildlife experts in one county in the United Kingdom are concerned about disappearing species.

What's happening?

North Yorkshire in northern England is home to a wide variety of animals  deer, hedgehogs, puffins, seals, and hundreds more. But like many other parts of the world, animals there are struggling to adapt to a rapidly changing climate.

A report by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust found that "hundreds of species have disappeared from Yorkshire and there are sharp declines in thousands more," per the Darlington & Stockton Times.

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Deforestation, urbanization, and planet-warming pollution are causing habitats to change faster than nature can adapt.

"Biologists estimate that 35% of animals and plants could become extinct in the wild by 2050" if we don't reduce our impact, according to the U.S. National Park Service.

Why is habitat loss concerning?

Over 47,000 species  amphibians, mammals, trees, and more  are currently threatened with extinction, according to The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)'s Red List.

One of the most significant factors driving extinction is habitat loss, along with invasive species and pollution.

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With less space and fewer resources, animals have a harder time hunting and breeding. Many animals die off, while others seek resources from human settlements, which is dangerous for both the animals and humans.

What's being done to stop habitat loss?

In North Yorkshire, the local council plans "to create a joined-up network of nature-rich areas across the county to address our biodiversity loss," per the Darlington & Stockton Times. Residents have been invited to give their views on the plans.

To prevent further habitat loss elsewhere, conservationists are working to protect and preserve at-risk land.

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.

One study found that preserving just 1.2% more of the planet's land could save hundreds of plants and animals from extinction.

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Researchers in Oregon are also hoping that restoring historic wetlands will encourage salmon and other native species to return to the watershed.

On an individual level, you can protect, preserve, and restore habitats right in your own backyard by rewilding your yard.

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.
For only the third time in decades, a rare turtle was spotted in a Belarusian nature reserve.

Belarus Today reported that a European pond turtle was found in the Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve, which lies about 75 miles northeast of the capital, Minsk.

Two other sightings took place in 2004 and 2017. "This is the third discovery of this species in the wetlands of the reserve suitable for its habitat," scientists told the outlet.

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As the only turtle species in the country, the pond turtle is subject to legal protections but isn't typically seen that far north.

UNESCO describes the Berezinsky Biosphere as "one of the largest undrained peat bogs in Eastern Europe." Amid the alarming disappearance of about 80% of critical wetlands across Europe in the last century, the biosphere is a crucial habitat for many species, especially birds.

The reserve was established a century ago thanks to the tireless advocacy of Anatoly Fedyushin, a professor who "set about saving Belarusian nature from the rapid destruction brought about by years of war and revolutionary turmoil," per Belarus Today.

The pond turtles are just one of hundreds of rare species that call the biosphere home.

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The European pond turtle is considered near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The animal is found in North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, and there are plans to reintroduce it to the United Kingdom.

Their numbers have suffered from habitat loss and invasive species. They play a key role in maintaining the health of freshwater habitats as predators and prey.

The discovery of a rare species is always a welcome development and demonstrates the immense value of protecting critical habitats. Interestingly, another rare pond turtle was found in Muir Woods in Northern California.

Some of the most effective conservation methods begin at home. Just by rewilding a yard with native plants, a homeowner can contribute to maintaining the health of their ecosystem while saving money and effort at the same time.

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 political row has erupted in India over allegations of "vote theft" by opposition parties, and accusations of electoral irregularities against the country's election body, which they say favoured the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 general elections.

On Tuesday, parliament was adjourned after opposition MPs demanded a debate on the integrity of India's electoral process.

A day earlier, dozens of opposition leaders, including Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi, were briefly detained by the police in the capital Delhi, as they tried to march to the Election Commission of India's (ECI) headquarters.

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Gandhi first raised the issue at a 7 August press conference in Delhi, and has since managed to galvanise strong support from hundreds of opposition lawmakers.

The Election Commission and the BJP have aggressively rejected the allegations.

What are Rahul Gandhi's allegations against the Election Commission?

Gandhi has alleged widespread voter manipulation during the 2024 parliamentary elections, citing granular data obtained from the electoral body itself - though the ECI and the ruling party dispute his interpretation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a historic third term in the elections, but his BJP-led alliance fell short of the sweeping majority predicted. Voter turnout averaged 66% in the world's largest election, with nearly a billion registered voters - one in eight people on Earth.

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Gandhi cited electoral data for Mahadevapura, an assembly segment in the Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency, and claimed that the voter list had more than 100,000 manipulated entries, including duplicate voters, invalid addresses, and bulk registrations of votes at single locations.

He presented examples of voters like Shakun Rani, who he claimed cast her ballots twice - a claim disputed by the election body.

Gandhi also alleged CCTV footage from polling booths was deleted and pointed out an instance of 80 people registered in a single address in Mahadevapura.

The Congress leader says his party lost at least 48 seats in the elections due to such irregularities and has accused India's election body of failing to enforce the "one man, one vote" principle. The Congress won 99 of the 543 seats in the elections, behind BJP's 240.

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Gandhi has demanded that the ECI release digital voter rolls, so that they can be audited by his party and the public.

The BBC hasn't independently verified Gandhi's claims.

Gandhi cited constituency data to allege large-scale poll manipulation [Getty Images]

What have the ECI and BJP said?

Soon after Gandhi's press conference, ECI responded on social media platform X, calling his allegations "absurd" and denying many of his claims.

The polling body has demanded that he either submit a signed declaration under oath or apologise to the nation.

ECI's Karnataka state unit further said that the Congress didn't file formal objections when the electoral roll was being revised ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections.

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The poll body earlier said it keeps CCTV footage only for 45 days after results - the window for filing election disputes.

BJP leaders have also strongly rebutted the allegations.

"This anarchy is extremely worrying and dangerous for democracy," BJP leader and federal education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said.

Federal agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Gandhi and the opposition alliance were "defaming democracy, tearing it to shreds, and tampering with the dignity of constitutional institutions".

The new draft rolls for Bihar have 72.4 million names - 6.5 million fewer than before [Getty Images]

What has been the political fallout?

Gandhi's allegations have led to an uproar as they come in the backdrop of a controversy over a month-long revision of electoral rolls in Bihar state, where key elections are scheduled for November.

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The Special Intensive Revision (SIR), held between June and July, saw officials visit all 78.9 million voters in the state for verification - the first update since 2003.

The ECI says the drive targets duplicate and deceased voters, but critics say its haste has disenfranchised many, especially migrants and minorities.

Many voters in Bihar have told the BBC that the draft rolls have wrong photos and include dead people.

India's Supreme Court is currently hearing a batch of petitions challenging the SIR, with petitioners demanding publication of the deleted names - about 6.5 million - with reasons for their removal.

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The election body says deletions include 2.2 million dead, 700,000 enrolled more than once and 3.6 million who have migrated from the state.

Corrections are open until 1 September, with over 165,000 applications received. A similar review will be conducted nationwide to verify nearly a billion voters.

The court has said that the allegations of disenfranchisement "largely appears to be a case of trust deficit, nothing else" and that it would "step in immediately" if mass exclusion of voters is proven.

On 12 August, Gandhi escalated his claims of vote theft, saying such manipulation was happening "at a national level and systematically".

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Highlighting the case of a 124-year-old voter's name found in the draft electoral list of Bihar he said: "There are unlimited cases like that. 'Abhi picture baki hai' [the story is not over yet]."
Dozens of workers at a steel plant near Pittsburgh are trapped beneath rubble following an explosion, and police have confirmed at least one fatality.

The incident unfolded Monday morning at Clairton Coke Works near Pittsburgh in Allegheny County. Details remain murky as the emergency continues to unfold, but multiple reports say dozens are feared trapped and injured under the rubble.

The Allegheny County Emergency Services shared that a fire at the plant started at 10:51 a.m. local time. At least five people have been transported to the hospital, but emergency crews are working to rescue dozens more.

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It's currently being considered an "active scene."

"Attn Media: This remains an active incident and the public is urged to avoid the area. ACES and County Police will provide an update within the next two hours. Media is currently asked to stage at the intersection of State Street and Maple Avenuel," the Allegheny County Police Department shared in a statement.

Several people were injured after a reported explosion at a US Steel plant in Clairton, Pennsylvania, on Monday https://t.co/In36yR1GiP pic.twitter.com/f85yLQhadQ  Bloomberg (@business) August 11, 2025

Related: Terrifying Video Shows Flood Wiping Out Entire Village as Dozens Are Feared Dead

Authorities also shared on Facebook that "officials can confirm there has been one fatality in connection with this incident."

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"Two people are currently believed to be unaccounted for, and multiple individuals have been treated for additional injuries. The status of those individuals is not known at this time. Emergency Services is coordinating with all local agencies," Allegheny County PD said in a statement posted on Facebook.

Clairton Coke Works is considered the largest coking operation in North America. The massive facility is also one of the four major U.S. steel plants in Pennsylvania. Thousands are employed by the plant.

According to WTAE, residents who live within a mile of the explosion are being advised to stay inside as choking black smoke covers the area. Residents are advised to close all windows and doors and set HVAC systems to recirculate.

"ACHD Air Quality monitors have not detected levels of PM2.5 and So2 above federal standards," the department said in a statement.

Explosion at Steel Plant Leaves Dozens Trapped, At Least 1 Dead first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Ezekiel Kelly, the man accused of going on a deadly, hours-long shooting spree across the city of Memphis in September 2022, changed his plea to guilty in a deal accepted in court on Wednesday.

Kelly is accused of multiple shootings and carjackings across Memphis that left four people dead and three injured in a violent rampage that lasted for hours. The incident, which was partially livestreamed by Kelly, left Memphis in a panic.

Wednesday, attorneys entered guilty pleas on 28 counts. Kelly was sentenced to three life sentences served consecutively with no parole, plus 221 years. The deal took the death penalty off the table.

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Ezekiel Kelly: Journey from troubled youth to convicted killer

Attorneys said the deal was approved by all victims families.

The judge asked Kelly several times whether he fully understood what he was doing by waiving his right to a trial. He answered Yes, sir several times.

The judge read off the charges:

Count 1 is first-degree murder. Count 2 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. Count 3 is first-degree murder. Count 4 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. Count 5 is possession of a weapon by a felon. Count 6 is attempted murder. Count 7 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. County 8 is employing a firearm in a dangerous felony. Count 9 is attempted murder. Count 10 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. Count 11 is use of a firearm in a deadly weapon. Count 12 is aggravated assault. Count 13 is attempted murder. Count 14 is attempted carjacking. Count 15 is using a firearm with intent to commit a felony. Count 16 is using a firearm with intent to commit a felony. County 17 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. Count 18 is reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. Count 19 is first-degree murder. Count 20 is a charge of carjacking. Count 21 is a charge of using a firearm with intent to commit a felony. Count 22 is attempted murder. Count 23 is use a firearm with intent to commit a felony. Count 24 is theft of property $10,000-60,000. Count 25 is evading arrest. Count 26 is theft of property. Count 27 is possession of a prohibited weapon. Count 28 is commission of an act of terrorism.

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Aubrey Miller, the brother-in-law of one of the victims, was the only person who spoke directly to Kelly in court. He urged Kelly to give his life to Jesus. Kelly wiped his eyes several times.

Kelly said he was in a dark place when the crimes occurred. He asked for forgiveness from the families.

Theres nothing I can say to bring to bring nobodys family back, but we all got to live with this  I was in the darkest place of my life when this occurred. The time I been here in 201, God came to me, he said.

Ezekiel Kelly listens in court Wednesday.

I didnt want it to happen like this. It changed my life. Something that changed my life and caused be to change. I didnt see no life the way I was living. I wasnt living in the righteous path. I do apologize the to the victims family. I hope one day you find it in your heart to forgive me.

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District Attorney Steve Mulroy said after the hearing that death penalty cases can drag on for years if not decades. Wednesdays deal brings closure to the victims families, who are ready to move on with their lives, and will make sure Kelly never sees the light of day.

Particularly this kind of random violence, which terrorized an entire city for five hours at least and put us on lockdown. When this type of violence occurs, there will be consequences, there will be accountability, said Mulory.

Mulroy, who faced the Kelly case in his first week on the job, said the reasons the crime spree happened would probably never be known.

Kellys attorney, explaining the reasons his client accepted the plea deal, said he told him that life in prison was better than the grave.

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Hes truly sorry for what hes done, he also wants to be true in the fact that, hey theres nothing that he can really say or do for the families that will make them feel any better, or different towards him or any other but the only one thing he could do was go ahead and do this plea and put closure to this case, said Kellys attorney.

Kelly was supposed to start trial in July, but earlier this year, a judge agreed to delay it.

Ezekiel Kelly set to appear in court after trial delay

Prosecutors said they were ready to proceed; however, Kellys attorneys requested the delay that moved the trial date, saying they werent ready to face a jury due to the magnitude of the case.

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This is not a normal case, Judge. Its a case that involves seven crime scenes, three homicides. It involves at least approximately 80 witnesses on behalf of the government. We are in the process of investigating 400 witnesses, said Michael Scholl, Kellys defense attorney.

I think in the process of representing Mr. Kelly, hes probably what I would consider 180 degrees different than where he was when he walked in the door. He has worked hard to do a transformation of himself, said Attorney Scholl.

Kelly had been in and out of juvenile as a youth.

This was a Raleigh kid, you know, someone whos grown up in Raleigh, who went to Coleman Elementary right around the corner, and hes dropped out of school. Hes one of a few children in his home, said Torrey Bates, a youth advocate with For The Kingdom Youth Services.

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Ezekiel Kelly was a Raleigh kid raised by the streets, youth advocate says

The streets have essentially raised him since since middle school. And what comes with our pain are were looking for remedies for that pain. And when youre growing up in poverty, again, poverty begets a lot of things.

And weeks before the shooting spree, he had been released from prison after being

charged with criminal attempted first degree murder, but he plead guilty to the lesser charge of aggravated assault.

His early release outraged the community.

These evil actions show why truth in sentencing is a must and we should do all we can to make our city safe. We should not be terrorized by anyone, Strickland said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 screenshot purporting to show an article about alleged financial troubles at the Afrikaans-focused ride-hailing platform Wanatu has recently been circulating online. This is false; there are no credible reports of this claim anywhere online, the journalist credited in the screenshot denies writing any article about Wanatu, and the company also said this was false news.

Racism and bigotry is not good for business, reads the caption of an X post published on August 2, 2025.

The post, which has thousands of likes, features a screenshot of an alleged article headlined: Wanatu vehicles to be auctioned as creditors seek to recoup over R13m in debt. The byline is attributed to Ngwako Malatji.

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Wanatu is a ride-hailing service which started in 2024, catering to residents in the Pretoria-Centurion area.

The transport company made headlines when it announced its business model of only employing Afrikaans speakers (archived here).

Screenshot of an X post, published on August 2, 2025

Similar posts were shared across multiple platforms, including TikTok, Instagram and blogs.

However, the screenshot is a fabrication; no such news report exists.

No reports

The source of the alleged article is not visible in the screenshot.

AFP Fact Check ran searches and found no credible news reports about the service having 13 million rand (about $734,000) in debt nor about its vehicles being auctioned.

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The company responded to the circulating screenshot with a statement on August 3, 2025, saying they are still fully operational (archived here).

We are aware that false news and misleading information are being circulated about WANATU. If there is anything important to share, WANATU will communicate directly with you through our official channels, the statement read.

As a local journalist noted, the design of the fabricated screenshot appears to be based on that of an older design of online newspaper TimesLIVE (archived here).

1. Ngwako Malatji has been editor at Sunday World.

2. This is a TimesLIVE interface.

3. Ngwako has never worked for TimesLIVE.

4. Is there another Ngwako Malatji?

5. Lets exercise some discernment.

6. Just post a link. https://t.co/iz2KLP5HwM  Zimasa (@ZimasaMatiwane) August 3, 2025

Contacted by AFP Fact Check, the journalist cited in the fabricated screenshot, Ngwako Malatji, said he didnt write the article.

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I have never reported on the e-hailer, Malatji told AFP on August 7, 2025.

He added that he does not know any other journalist with the same name.

Malatji is the editor of South Africas Sunday World newspaper, which uses a red, white and black design that is different from the one in the screenshot shared online.

Comparison of the circulating screenshot (left) with a screenshot of one of Ngwako Malatjis articles in Sunday World

A search of the website also shows that Sunday World has not reported on Wanatu.

Wanatu suspended operations in February 2025, after the city of Tshwane impounded two of its vehicles due to permit issues. However, this was challenged in court, and the Afrikaans platform won the case, resuming operations in the same month (archived here).

According to Wanatus website, while drivers are required to speak Afrikaans, the clients are not obliged to.
Did President Donald Trump announce the clearance of homeless people from all 50 states? No, that's not true: Trump declared on his Truth Social account, "the Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY," in reference to Washington, D.C. He issued an executive order on August 11, 2025, declaring a crime emergency in the District of Columbia. He said his administration had begun removing homeless people from parks in the nation's capital during a press briefing but he has not announced this would happen in all 50 states, as of the publication of this article.

The claim appeared in a video (archived here) where it was published on TikTok on August 12, 2025. It opened with a caption on a video that read:

BREAKING NEWS Starting from 4 a.m., Trump ordered the complete clearance of homeless people in 50 states.

This is what the post looked like on TikTok at the time of writing:

Source: Lead Stories screenshot of TikTok.com post.

The 1-minute video made the claim with the audio saying:

Trump announced starting this morning all 50 states across the United States will completely eliminate homelessness. This time we will thoroughly clean up the country. He spoke bluntly on social media. Let our nation be safer and more beautiful than ever before.

The same claim was made on X with the same video:

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It's clear from his public statements that the President was only referring to Washington, D.C. and not the entire country.

Trump posted a message about Washington, D.C. on his Truth Social account (archived here) on August 10, 2025, writing:

We're having a News Conference tomorrow in the White House. I'm going to make our Capital safer and more beautiful than it ever was before. The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY. We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital. The Criminals, you don't have to move out. We're going to put you in jail where you belong. It's all going to happen very fast, just like the Border. We went from millions pouring in, to ZERO in the last few months. This will be easier -- Be prepared! There will be no "MR. NICE GUY." We want our Capital BACK. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

Source: Lead Stories screenshot of Truth Social post on Donald Trump account.

Trump issued an executive order on August 11, 2025, titled, Declaring a Crime Emergency in the District of Columbia, (archived here), but it did not mention homeless people or the removal of homeless people. During his August 11, 2025, news briefing (archived here), Trump said his administration began removing homeless encampments "from all over our parks, our beautiful, beautiful parks."

He did not say there would be a clearance of homeless people in all 50 states as of August 12, 2025.

Lead Stories searched Google News' index of thousands of news websites and found no reports (archived here) of Trump clearing the homeless in all 50 states. Similarly, the Yahoo! News index of partner news sites and news services showed news reports of Trump clearing the homeless in Washington, D.C., not all 50 states (archived here).
Claim:

In 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump said to Ireland: "If you try to economically isolate Israel, you will bear consequences."

Rating:

Rating: Incorrect Attribution

In August 2025, a claim spread online that U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Ireland over its proposed trade boycott of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories.

Deputy Prime Minister of Ireland Simon Harris introduced legislation in June to ban trade with the occupied Palestinian territories in relation to what he called Israel's "genocidal activity." Israel has occupied Palestinian territories since 1967, which, according to the International Court of Justice, breaks international law. In early August, multiple reputable news media outlets reported that the Israeli government was considering seizing and reoccupying the entire Gaza Strip in an escalation of the country's ongoing war in the area. A few days later, several outlets reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied, despite the takeover plans, that the seizure of Gaza would be an occupation.

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In response to Harris' announcement, numerous social media users on X, Facebook and Threads claimed that Trump said Ireland will "bear consequences" if it tries to economically isolate Israel. While other posts stated that the "United States," not Trump specifically, warned Ireland of said consequences, these posts often included a picture of the U.S. president, which may have contributed to numerous Snopes readers searching the website for information on Trump "threatening" Ireland.

However, Trump has not publicly said that Ireland would "bear consequences" if it chose to boycott Israel. Instead, this claim appeared to originate from a letter signed by 16 U.S. House Republicans  led by Rep. Claudia Tenney, a Republican from New York  calling on Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to investigate whether Ireland's proposed boycott violates U.S. anti-boycott law.

In the second-to-last paragraph, the Aug. 7 letter used similar language to the social media posts. It read: "The United States must send a clear signal that efforts to economically isolate Israel will carry consequences, and that U.S. law designed to combat such discrimination will be enforced."

As such, we have rated this claim as incorrectly attributed to Trump. The White House did not immediately return an inquiry into whether the Trump administration was planning to take any action in response to Ireland's proposed boycott.

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A Google search for "Trump Ireland 'bear consequences'" returned only social media results. That search produced no evidence of reputable news media outlets in either the United States or Ireland reporting on Trump producing the quote. If the U.S. president had issued a threat such as this against Ireland, an ally of the United States, it would certainly have been covered.

The earliest version of this quote appeared to come from Middle East Monitor, a news outlet largely focused on Israel's war in Gaza. The Monitor published (archived) the aforementioned quote alongside a picture of Trump on Aug. 9 on its social media platforms but provided no actual attribution for the quote in the written text of its post, which may have sparked confusion over who said it. One of the posts featuring a photo of Trump had the following caption:

US THREATENS IRELAND OVER BOYCOTT OF ISRAEL: "If you try to economically isolate Israel, you will bear consequences" U.S. Congress urges Treasury Secretary Bessent to investigate Ireland's proposed boycott of Israel: "The United States must send a clear signal that efforts to economically isolate Israel will carry consequences." This comes after US cities and states were threatened by the Trump administration that they would not receive federal aid if they boycotted Israel.

It is also worth noting that the Monitor attributed the second quote in its post to the "U.S. Congress," when, in fact, the quote came from Tenney's letter  it did not come from an official resolution or law passed by Congress. Thus, the assertion that Congress in its majority or entirety urged Bessent to investigate Ireland's proposed boycott of Israel was also incorrect. Snopes reached out to the Monitor for more information regarding the social media post and the origin of the "bear consequences" quote. We await the outlet's response.

Additionally, if a country requires businesses or individuals to participate in an international boycott that is not sanctioned by the United States, federal law requires the Treasury Department to put those countries on a list. U.S.-based entities that do business with countries on the list face specific tax reporting requirements and possible penalties.

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The third-to-last paragraph of Tenney's letter called on the Treasury to consider whether Ireland should be added to the boycott list if its proposal to sanction Israeli settlements becomes law.

Sources:

"26 U.S. Code  999 - Reports by Taxpayers; Determinations." LII / Legal Information Institute, 2025, www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/999. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

Al-Mughrabi, Nidal, et al. 'Netanyahu Says New Gaza Offensive Will Start Soon'. Reuters, 10 Aug. 2025. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/netanyahu-says-new-gaza-offensive-will-start-soon-2025-08-10/.

"Congresswoman Tenney Leads Letter to Treasury Urging Review of Ireland's Boycott of Israel under U.S. Anti-Boycott Law." Representative Claudia Tenney, 7 Aug. 2025, tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-leads-letter-treasury-urging-review-irelands-boycott. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

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Harris, Simon. "Today Ireland Becomes the First Country in Europe to Bring Forward Legislation to Ban Trade with the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Ireland Is Speaking up and Speaking out against the Genocidal Activity in Gaza. Every Country Must Pull Every Lever at Its Disposal." X (Formerly Twitter), 24 June 2025, x.com/SimonHarrisTD/status/1937421361498255798. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

Hernandez, Joe. 'Netanyahu Defends Israel's Plan to Seize Gaza City, despite Global Condemnation'. NPR, 10 Aug. 2025. NPR, https://www.npr.org/2025/08/10/nx-s1-5497905/netanyahu-israel-plan-gaza-united-nations.

International Court of Justice. "Summary of the Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024 | INTERNATIONAL COURT of JUSTICE." Www.icj-Cij.org, 19 July 2024, www.icj-cij.org/node/204176.

'Israel and The Occupied Territories - The Occupied Territories'. United States Department of State, https://www.state.gov/reports/2016-report-on-international-religious-freedom/israel-and-the-occupied-territories/israel-and-the-occupied-territories-the-occupied-territories/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2025.

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Krauss, Joseph. "What to Know as Israel Considers Reoccupying Gaza." AP News, 5 Aug. 2025, apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-netanyahu-gaza-occupation-baec5d80f0394fdfb12db78e24b8109f. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

"List of Countries Requiring Cooperation with an International Boycott." Federal Register, 16 Feb. 2024, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/02/16/2024-03269/list-of-countries-requiring-cooperation-with-an-international-boycott. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

Middle East Monitor. "US THREATENS IRELAND over BOYCOTT of ISRAEL." Facebook.com, 9 Aug. 2025, www.facebook.com/middleeastmonitor/posts/us-threatens-ireland-over-boycott-of-israel-if-you-try-to-economically-isolate-i/1160925112734183/. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

'Netanyahu Divides Israelis and Allies with Plan to Take over Gaza'. BBC News, 7 Aug. 2025, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4w2q9k4pjo.

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PerryCook, Taija. "Unraveling Palestine: Understanding Its Location and the Palestinian Identity." Snopes, 8 Dec. 2023, www.snopes.com/articles/465749/where-did-the-palestinians-come-from/.

Tenney, Claudia, et al. Letter to Sec Bessent. 7 Aug. 2025, tenney.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/tenney.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/letter-to-sec-bessent.pdf. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.

"Trump Ireland 'Bear Consequences' - Google Search." Google.com, www.google.com/search?q=trump+ireland+%22bear+consequences%22&oq=trump+ireland+%22bea&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBggAEEUYOzIGCAAQRRg7MgYIARBFGDkyCAgCEAAYFhgeMggIAxAAGBYYHjIKCAQQABiABBiiBDIHCAUQABjvBTIKCAYQABiABBiiBDIKCAcQABiABBiiBNIBCDIwNDJqMGo0qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8. Accessed 11 Aug. 2025.
Solomon Pena, a 2022 Republican candidate for an N.M. House seat, was sentenced to 80 years in prison Wednesday. (Photo from his official campaign Twitter feed in mid-November)

A failed Republican political candidate whose conspiracy theory about a stolen state House election prompted him to orchestrate shootings at homes of elected New Mexico Democrats will spend 80 years in prison, a federal judge ordered Wednesday.

Solomon Pena  who handily lost the race for an Albuquerque-based house district in 2022  falsely believed he was the victim of a election fraud and hatched a sophisticated scheme to harass and intimidate elected officials, U.S. District Court Judge Kea Riggs said in court during the sentencing hearing.

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Election results showed Pena, who ran as a Republican, lost to incumbent Democrat Miguel Garcia, who won 74% of the vote.

The sentence comes amid a spike in political violence in recent years, including the June assassination of a Minnesota Democratic state representative and her husband. As he campaigned, Pena was a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, who falsely claimed he won the 2020 presidential election over Joe Biden. Trump has pardoned his supporters convicted in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol and repeatedly threatened his political enemies, and he was the victim of two assassination attempts himself in 2024.

A jury in March found Pena guilty of enlisting a man and his adult son to repeatedly shoot up homes of four elected Democratic officials in December 2022 and January 2023 after he refused to accept defeat. He was also convicted of recruiting fellow inmates he was in jail with while awaiting trial to kill his codefendants.

The shooting rampage culminated in the early morning hours of Jan. 3, 2023, when, according to prosecutors, Pena and the 21-year-old man he enlisted fired a fully automatic gun at the home where state Sen. Linda Lopez and her children lived. Codefendant Jose Trujillo fired 12 rounds at her home, prosecutors said. Pena himself attempted to fire the weapon but it jammed, according to Riggs and prosecutors.

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Lopez testified Wednesday before the sentencing that she and her kids are still traumatized. Theyve all sought counseling for anxiety and depression. Fireworks and other loud noises make them fearful, she said, and they are afraid whenever anyone walks past their house.

The shooting of our home shattered what I was trying to form for my children, she said.

Despite the shooting, she ran for reelection in November and won. The choice to stay in office represented her commitment to democracy, she said, and being undeterred by political violence.

Our democracy must be open. Our democracy must not bend to intimidation or fear, she said. We will persevere.

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A jury ruled that Pena also orchestrated the shootings at the homes of other elected Democrats, including Bernalillo County Commissioners Adriann Barboa and Debbie OMalley, who is now a state senator, as well as House Speaker Javier Martinez.

Martinez and his wife, Dianna, also attended Wednesdays sentencing. Dianna Martinez recounted finding spent bullets in her shower and garage, and said she keeps replaying the shooting over and over, thinking about how if bullet trajectories had been slightly different, she and her children could have been injured or killed.

She called on the judge to hold Pena accountable for his actions, calling him a narcissist who has no regard for human life. Speaker Martinez draped his arm over his wifes shoulders as she spoke through tears.

This was not politics, she said. It was terror. 

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Pena did not speak in his own defense. Through his attorneys, he said he maintained his innocence and would appeal the conviction. He appeared stoic throughout the one-hour hearing and did not react to the sentencing that, if served completely, will keep the 42-year-old man in prison through the end of his life.

Prosecutors called on the judge to sentence him to 90 years in prison, saying in court documents that his actions represented an attack on the American political system. Pena hoped to force political change by terrorizing people into being too afraid to engage in political life if they held views contrary to his own, prosecutors said.

His attorneys asked for the mandatory minimum of 60 years, noting that mandatory minimums tied the judges hands but that other federal defendants are sentenced to less time for what they said are worse crimes, like murder and sexual abuse.

Riggs did not fully explain why she arrived at a sentence of 80 years, but she said it was, at least in part, an effort to deter others from considering similar actions and to restore public servants trust that they can safely run for office.

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Penas crimes were all because you could not believe that you lost an election, she told him. Saying it was beyond a miracle that no one was physically harmed, she recounted the path of violence that she believes would have continued to escalate if police hadnt arrested his codefendant less than 24 hours after the shooting at Lopezs home.

All for what? she told him. For your ego.

In addition to the 80-year sentence, Pena will face a $250,000 fine. The judge, whom Trump appointed in 2019, noted that Penas career as a storm-chaser meant he was not indigent and therefore capable of paying the fine. According to the judge and prosecutors, that profession defrauds insurance companies by billing them for overpriced and unnecessary repairs after natural disasters.

He will also be ordered to pay restitution, though the details of that were not clear Wednesday.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  A failed political candidate was sentenced to 80 years in federal prison Wednesday for his convictions in a series of drive-by shootings at the homes of state and local lawmakers in the aftermath of the 2020 election.

A jury convicted former Republican candidate Solomon Pena earlier this year of conspiracy, weapons and other charges in the shootings in December 2022 and January 2023 on the homes of four Democratic officials in Albuquerque, including the current state House speaker.

Prosecutors, who had sought a 90-year sentence, said Pena has shown no remorse and had hoped to cause political change by terrorizing people who held contrary views to him into being too afraid to take part in political life.

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Penas lawyers had sought a 60-year sentence, saying their client maintains that he is innocent of the charges. They have said Pena was not involved in the shootings and that prosecutors were relying on the testimony of two men who bear responsibility and accepted plea agreements in exchange for leniency.

Today was a necessary step toward Mr. Penas continued fight to prove his innocence," said Nicholas Hart, one of Penas attorneys. "He looks forward to the opportunity to appeal, where serious issues about the propriety of this prosecution will be addressed.

The attacks took place as threats and acts of intimidation against election workers and public officials surged across the country after President Donald Trump and his allies called into question the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

Prosecutors said Pena resorted to violence in the belief that a rigged election had robbed him of victory in his bid to serve in the state Legislature.

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The shootings targeted the homes of officials including two county commissioners after their certification of the 2022 election, in which Pena lost by nearly 50 percentage points. No one was injured, but in one case bullets passed through the bedroom of a state senators 10-year-old daughter.

Two other men who had acknowledged helping Pena with the attacks had previously pleaded guilty to federal charges and received yearslong prison sentences. ___ This story was updated to correct that Penas lawyers sought a prison term of 60 years, not five years.
(KRON)  A fatal collision Tuesday morning is under investigation by the Fairfax Police Department as detectives seek critical information from the community on the incident.

Three San Francisco pedestrians killed within 2-block radius

FPD said the traffic fatality took place on Frustuck Avenue at 10:27 a.m. As of 3 p.m., police were still asking people to avoid the area but added that there was no public threat.

The cause of the crash is not yet determined. The identity of the victim is not being released at this time, said Fairfax PD.

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Anyone with information on the collision or who was in the area as the time of the incident is urged to call the Fairfax PD Investigations unit at (415) 453-5330.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PEKIN, Ill. (WMBD)  To celebrate five decades, a school in Pekin will hold a special event open to the community.

Faith Baptist Christian School will start its 50th academic year with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Aug. 19, office manager Tonya Bunch said.

She also said the event will take place at the schools campus at 1501 Howard Ct. in Pekin, and begins at 8:30 a.m.

The ceremony will start with remarks from Pastor Chip Herbert, who will talk about the schools legacy, Bunch said. Pastor Herbert will also introduce Jack Herbert as the schools new principal.

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The ribbon cutting will follow Jack Herberts introduction.

We are incredibly grateful for the generations of families, faculty, and students who have made Faith Baptist Christian School a beacon of academic and spiritual growth in our community, said Pastor Herbert.

Alumni from the school and members of the community are invited to attend and celebrate this moment.

This 50th year is not just a celebrationits a recommitment to the values that have guided us since day one, Pastor Herbert 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.
FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI)  A 17-year-old was arrested in Fall River last Friday following an investigation into a report of terroristic threats, according to police.

Police said officers uncovered a video showing the teenager in possession of a firearm during the course of that investigation. The suspect was already on GPS monitoring for several charges, including armed robbery, assault with intent to murder, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.

Officers later searched the teenagers home on Orange Street. Police said that, as officers went inside, the suspect allegedly threw a handgun out of a third-floor window.

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The weapon was recovered as evidence and the teenager, who has not been identified, is now facing the following charges:

Possession of a large capacity firearm

Possession of a firearm without an FID card

Two counts of possession of ammunition without an FID card

Possession of a large capacity feeding device

Bomb/hijack threat (terroristic threats)

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Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the free WPRI 12+ TV app.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.
LANSING  A fundraising consultant has been placed on probation and fined for giving a false statement in a "dark money" investigation conducted by Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Sandra Baxter, 65, of Caledonia, was initially charged with perjury, which is a felony, in February 2024 but pleaded guilty in June to knowingly providing a false statement to law enforcement, which is a misdemeanor, Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a Wednesday, Aug. 13 news release.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel in December 2024.

Ingham County Circuit Judge James Jamo on Aug. 13 sentenced Baxter to three months of probation, 20 hours of community service, and a $2,500 fine, Nessel said.

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Baxter gave a false statement during Nessel's investigation of the "dark money" financing of the Unlock Michigan campaign of 2020 and 2021, aimed at overturning Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's emergency orders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In announcing criminal charges in February 2024, Nessel accused Baxter and another political operative of enabling and lying about a scheme to allow donors to secretly provide financial support to a ballot initiative, where public disclosure of donors was required by law.

Heather Lombardini, a Lansing-area political fundraiser and consultant, still faces multiple criminal charges of violating Michigan campaign finance law by soliciting contributions for the petition drive utilizing two nonprofits tied to former Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, in order to skirt disclosure requirements.

M.L. Elrick: I'll show you the money  and reveal why it's nearly impossible to say where it came from

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Opinion: How Michigan voting reforms screwed up campaign finance disclosure

The Unlock Michigan investigation shed light on corruption in campaign finance that was long considered common practice," Nessel said in a news release. "Fair elections depend on transparency and honesty, and attempts to skirt the system or mislead law enforcement and the people of Michigan will not be tolerated.

An attorney for Baxter did not immediately respond to a text message seeking comment.

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Consultant gets probation for false statement in 'dark money' probe
CONWAY, Ark. Its been close to nine years since 50-year-old Terry Credit was shot and killed in Conway.

He was supposed to be celebrating his 59th birthday on Tuesday, but instead, his family is still searching for answers as to who took his life and why.

Conway family still trying to solve death of loved one 8 years later

On August 17, 2016, credit was found dead from a gunshot wound in his Conway home. Since then, no arrests have been made.

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Victoria Credit-Rome, his sister, says his life was taken just five days after his 50th birthday.

It just hurts, the fact that he would have been 59 years old today, he is not here, its hard, Credit-Rome said.

She never imagined that days would turn into months and now years with still no arrest.

Its been almost nine years, and we still dont have justice for his life, She adds, I want to know why, why did someone take his life? Was it worth it?

Conway killing unsolved after seven years, family still searching for answers

The Conway Police Department says there are no updates in Credits cold case.

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Credit-Rome is pleading for someone in the community who has the key to their closure.

Thats all we want is justice, and someone out there knows something, she said. The people who took his life are still out there running around, and in order for us to visit Terry, we go to the cemetery and visit him at his grave.

No matter how long it takes, she says she will never give up hope.

To be nine years in and not have justice, that is a hard pill to swallow, Credit-Rome said. As long as God gives me breath in my body, Im going to keep fighting for justice for my brothers life.

Mayflower family reflects on 5 year anniversary of the murder of Terry Credit

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Although police say they dont have updates, theyre urging the public to call them if anyone has any information. Credit-Rome says that information could help her family more than anyone could imagine.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
ST. LOUIS  The family of a man who died in the St. Louis City Justice Center last month is suing the city, CJC employees, the jails medical provider and select employees.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that the Justice Center notified police of an in-custody death around 11:35 p.m. on Saturday, July 19.

Police learned that a fight between two detainees in a shared cell began sometime after 8 p.m. Police allege that one of those detainees, identified as Samuel Hayes Jr., did not listen to jail staff after the confrontation and was placed in a restraint chair.

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Hayes was later found unresponsive around 10 p.m. He was rushed to St. Louis University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Hayes was 31.

Anita Washington, Hayes mother, filed the suit on Aug. 13 on the familys behalf.

Attorneys representing Washington said the family viewed footage from inside the City Justice Center days after Hayes death.

In the lawsuit, the family claims jail staff failed to follow policies related to the use of restraint chairs and says those failures led to Hayes untimely death. They claim Hayes was not resisting, was not in any shape to be put in the chair, was left unmonitored, and that his death could have been prevented.

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The family is asking for a trial by jury.

Hayes had been in jail for more than a year after being charged with first-degree murder connected to a deadly April 2024 shooting in north St. Louis. He was scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 4.

You can read the lawsuit in its entirety below.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit by KevinSeanHeld

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
GOFUNDME GOFUNDME The 23-year-old man Saturday at a U.S. Department of Defense installation in Wahiawa was identified by family members as Devaughn Wright Pita.

Pita, aka Deezo,  was a loving father, son, brother, cousin, and friend.

So many people loved him deeply, and losing him has left an unfillable hole in our hearts and our family,  wrote family member Diamond Pita set up to help pay for Pitas funeral expenses and help his young son. The costs are overwhelming, but we are determined to honor his memory while fighting for justice in his name.

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It is not immediately clear if Pita is also in the military or why he was at the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station in Wahiawa.

The shooting happened at 5 :45 pm Saturday.

The suspect in custody is assigned to the 25th Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade. The Army did not release the name of the suspect, his age, or a description of what led to the shooting on Saturday.

The U.S. Armys Criminal Investigation Division in Quantico, Va., told the Star-Advertiser in a statement Monday that they are aware of the incident and are actively investigating this matter.

As this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide additional details,  read the statement.

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Another of Pitas family members, Ricky Tavita, posted that his family is devastated  by the death of Devaughn.

The shooter is in military custody, but we need transparency, answers and accountability. The more people who know what happened, the harder it is for this to be ignored,  wrote Tavita on his Facebook page Tuesday morning.

The murder is being investigated by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Navy, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Security Forces, local law enforcement and U.S. Army Hawaii leadership.

Patrol officers from the Honolulu Police Departments District 2 responded to the shooting scene Saturday, but homicide detail detectives were not dispatched.

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The family of Martha Nolan, an Irish bikini designer who was found dead aboard a yacht in Montauk, has met with Suffolk County homicide detectives, their attorney confirmed Wednesday.

Arthur Aidala, representing the family, said they are in contact with the district attorneys office and that the investigation remains active, with witness interviews and technological analyses still underway.

Such analyses can include examining phones, GPS data, and other electronic evidence to piece together a timeline of events leading up to Nolan's death on Aug. 5.

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"The family has had to sit down with the Suffolk County homicide detectives. They are doing a deep, deep dive. A deep investigation," Aidala said. "People still being questioned."

He urged the public and media to respect the familys privacy as they seek answers while honoring Nolans legacy: "They have a lot of questions they want to answer."

Montauk Yacht Death: Timeline Reveals Bikini Moguls Final Days In Hamptons Before Mysterious Demise

Read On The Fox News App

Lauren Conlin, a PopCrimeTV host who was there when the attorney released the news, told Fox News Digital that she "knew there could be a lot more to this case than what has been reported."

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"And the fact that they are still interviewing people for additional information and details  I dont think this will be swept under the rug," she said.

The 33-year-old fashion entrepreneur was found dead on a boat docked at an exclusive yacht club in Montauk, New York, on Aug. 5.

The owner of the vessel, a man in his 60s who was reportedly naked when he raised the alarm, frantically ran along the dock looking for neighbors to help resuscitate her, one witness told 27East, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Woman Found Dead On Yacht Sparks Scrutiny Of Montauks Party Scene And Rising Wealth

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Less than 48 hours after Nolans death, police ruled out foul play and the cause of death remains inconclusive pending toxicology results.

The Suffolk County Police Department told Fox News that it has not released additional information since last week, following reports that police are investigating the death as a suspected drug overdose. The agency said that any new information did not emanate from them.

Meanwhile, a source close to the family told Fox the cause of death remains officially inconclusive and that any report suggesting otherwise is inaccurate.

The circumstances surrounding Nolans death have sparked intrigue, as she was reportedly alone on the boat with its owner despite being in a long-term relationship with another man. Its unclear what Nolans relationship was to the boat owner. Some reports indicate that he was an investor in her business.

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Additionally, she was in the process of finalizing a divorce from her husband, Sam Ryan, according to documents viewed by Fox News Digital. Their divorce proceedings got underway in March but remained unfinalized at the time of her death.

The filings include a separation agreement, affidavits from both parties, and a certificate of dissolution. However, the divorce was never finalized and the two remained legally married at the time of her death.

Her boyfriend at the time of her death was not on board the yacht when she became unresponsive and she had texted him that she would "Uber home" following what was described as a business outing, as reported by the Irish Independent,

Irish Bikini Designer Found Dead On Yacht Months After Divorce And Prior Legal Dispute

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People who were aboard other boats at the Montauk Yacht Club on the night told 27East that the boat owner owned two boats docked next to each other at the marina and came crying for help, throwing items at neighboring boats to wake up their crews.

WATCH:

Forensics expert Joseph Scott Morgan told "Fox & Friends" on Wednesday that an analysis of the boat, along with toxicology results, could provide vital clues about what happened. Police have not said whether anything suspicious was found on the vessel and have not suggested that any illegal activity occurred on the boat.

"The question I want to know is, when they swept through this vessel, did they encounter any trove of drugs in there?" Morgan said. "And it doesnt have to be huge packages  Im talking about baggies of things, anything indicative of current or long-standing drug abuse syringes, coke spoons scales if youre looking at a wider operation."

Many questions remain unanswered about the mysterious death of an Irish fashion entrepreneur who died on a boat docked at an exclusive yacht club in Montauk, New York, more than a week ago.

"You hear the story of an individual alerting the rest of the public, and hes nude, and hes running outside of the boat screaming I gotta tell you, man, Ive got questions."

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Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden told Fox News Digital previously that authorities in Suffolk County should know the cause of death "within a week," pending toxicology results.

In addition to her personal legal disputes, Nolan was also involved in legal conflicts related to her business dealings.

According to a 2022 civil lawsuit filed by Out East Accessories Inc., viewed by Fox News Digital, she was accused of being terminated for cause in late 2021 and then stealing $34,000 from the companys bank account and its entire inventory of luxury eyewear.

According to the court filing, she and another individual "ransacked Out East," sold or gifted the products without authorization, and caused irreparable financial harm to the business. Nolan denied the allegations through counsel.

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The case was dismissed with prejudice in July 2022 after both parties reached a confidential settlement, effectively closing the matter permanently.

Nolan was a frequent visitor to Montauk and lived in Manhattan.

The Irish entrepreneurs swimwear label was flourishing in the highly competitive market and locals said they were familiar with it.

Earlier in the summer, she secured a pop-up shop at Gurneys, regarded as one of the most exclusive retail spots in the Hamptons.

On social media, the Irish immigrant shared behind-the-scenes footage of her brand, including photoshoots and pop-up events, as well as footage of her riding in private jets and helicopters.

Locals told Fox News Digital last week that she was friendly, well-liked and deeply passionate about her business.

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"She was very sweet, very, very sweet very invested in her business and actually it was starting to take off," one woman said. "She was very proud of her accomplishments."

Fox News Digital's Brooke Curto contributed to this report.





Original article source: Family of Irish bikini designer found dead on yacht met with homicide detectives: lawyer
KANSAS CITY, Kan.  Were hearing for the first time from the heartbroken family of a man shot and killed by police in Kansas City, Kansas, late last week.

The deadly incident happened near North 82nd Terrace and State Avenue.

Sun Fresh near 31st, Prospect in Kansas City closes its doors

According to investigators, 24-year-old Paul Beasley Jr. entered a store with a gun in hand and demanded the cashier call 911. When the first officer arrived, Beasley reportedly confronted them, prompting the officer to retreat outside and Beasley following.

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Thats when, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) says, five officers opened fire, hitting and killing Beasley.

But according to his family, theres a critical piece of this story that must not be overlooked. Beasley had tried to get mental health care just hours before the shooting.

Less than three hours before he was killed, Beasley was at AdventHealth, meeting with a therapist. His family said both he and his mother begged staff to admit him  fearing he was in the middle of a serious mental health crisis. But they say their pleas fell on deaf ears.

Now, theyre left asking the question no family should have to ask: What do you do when someone in crisis is refused the help they so desperately need?

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Beasley was just 24 years old. A devoted father of two young boys. A government employee at the IRS. And, as his family puts it, a gentle giant.

It cannot be described PJ  Paul Beasley Jr.  is like a glue for us, his moms only child, his fathers only child he helped take care of them and he took care of his children, his second cousin Asura Imen said.

The family says Beasleys mental health began to deteriorate after a trip to Denver on July 10, where he unknowingly consumed laced mushrooms.

He had a serious reaction to it, Imen said.

From that point forward, his loved ones say he was never the same.

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Beasley began speaking to his deceased son, displaying erratic behavior, and living in an alternate reality.

Recognizing something was deeply wrong, they repeatedly pleaded for help.

On August 8, Beasley returned to the mental health facility that had previously helped him  AdventHealth. But this time, he was turned away.

He wanted to stay  he wanted to stay and he told them the symptoms he was having and they told him he had to wait until Monday and yesterday was Monday, Imen recalled.

He was denied access to treatment that he deserved, she said.

Now theyre denied a father  they dont have a father  because they denied him the help that he needed, added Beasleys girlfriend Monique Manning.

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The KBI says Beasley never fired his weapon.

He had no criminal record, and he had requested that the store employee call police. Five officers fired  ending his life.

We want to understand how a sheriff can be killed  weeks prior and the assailant live  going to this he did not shoot  or kill anyone  everyone lived but him  thats a problem, Imen said.



You Matter: Find mental health resources and stories on FOX4.

If you are thinking of hurting or killing yourself:

Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Please get help immediately.

The officers involved are currently on leave, pending the results of the KBI investigation. Once complete, the findings will be forwarded to the Wyandotte County District Attorneys Office, which will determine if any charges will be filed.

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FOX4 reached out to AdventHealth for comment, we have not heard back 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 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.




NEED TO KNOW

A Northern California mother, Jessica Farwell, recalled how she was charged over $100,000 for a visit to the emergency room

In October 2022, her son, Brody, suffered second-degree burns from a rice cooker

After the worried mother drove him to the local hospital, he was transported to the nearest burn unit, resulting in the six-figure hospital bill





A mother is recalling how an emergency room visit for her newborn baby resulted in a six-figure hospital bill.

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Jessica Farwell, a resident of Antioch, Calif., told KGO-TV that in October 2022, a rice cooker fell off her kitchen counter and severely burned her infant son, Brody, who was 6 months old at the time.

"His skin, it just instantly bubbled up," she began. "I was just like  is his face going to start bubbling?"

The worried mother then rushed her infant to the nearby hospital, where they gave him fentanyl through his nose because he was screaming.

However, the facility lacked a burn unit and had no ambulances to transport Brody to a hospital with a burn unit. "So they were calling an ambulance, but it was the end of COVID. There wasn't going to be an ambulance for seven hours, she explained.

getty Stock image of a rescue air ambulance helicopter Stock image of a rescue air ambulance helicopter

It was then declared it was medically necessary to transfer Brody to Shriners Children's Hospital in Sacramento. (Antioch is 58 miles south of Sacramento.) To bypass the seven-hour wait for an ambulance, she offered to make the one-hour and 20-minute drive.

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"They said, 'No, sorry, you can't  I can't let you leave with him. I've already called the helicopter.' He basically told me there was nothing I could do," Farwell explained.

That's when she was presented with the sole option of a 15-minute helicopter ride that cost nearly $90,000  while being reassured, she told KGO-TV, that she would not receive the bill since the hospital requested the helicopter and she had insurance.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

"I was just absolutely terrified to fly  I'm breaking down. He's screaming; it was just awful," she said.

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Yet, when they landed at the burn unit's helipad, she was informed that an ambulance ride was required to take them to the hospital entrance, only 0.3 miles away.

"You can see the hospital," Farwell told KGO-TV of the location where they landed. "You literally can walk across the street to the hospital quicker than that ambulance, and they charged me $10,200."

Upon their arrival at the burn unit, her son was treated for his second-degree burns and discharged the next day.

However, Farwell wasnt finished with the experience. A couple of months later, she received the bill for $100,032.

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"I couldn't believe my eyes," Farwell said. "You look at the bills, and it's absolutely enraging. We got hit for a $600 waiting fee; there's a fee for it being a nighttime service. There's just every single fee you can think of."

Although the doctors said the bill wouldnt be an issue because of her insurance, she learned that insurance only covered less than half of the helicopter bill and a small portion of the ambulance bill. She was then left to cover $57,929.80 for the helicopter and another $7,327 for the ambulance.

"I've called the hospital, ambulance company, my insurance numerous times," she said. "It's been three years, and then they wouldn't listen to me or talk to me. They just kept giving me the runaround."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

After receiving ongoing calls from collection companies, which led her to search for help on Google, she found KGO-TV, who assisted her and ultimately had the entire bill waived.

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"They called, and said, 'It's done, we will never bill you again.' They almost sounded apologetic. I hung up and told my husband. We just couldn't believe it!" Farwell recounted. "It's a miracle!"

In January 2024, California passed the law AB 716, which protects people from receiving surprise bills for ground ambulance services. Since Farwell's incident happened before the law was passed, her ambulance bill was not waived.

Ambulance company Pro Transport-1 told KGO-TV that they felt the "issue still 100% lies with the insurance company simply deciding to pass part of the bill to the patient, we will accept their partial payment and no longer seek the remaining balance of the bill for our services."

When KGO-TV reached out to Blue Cross Blue Shield, the insurer said it could not answer specific questions about Farwell's case, adding, "We are committed to increasing access to safe, appropriate, and effective health care based on the best available information and research, and in accordance with a member's benefit plan."



PEOPLE has reached out to Shriners Children's Hospital and Blue Cross Blue Shield for comment.

Read the original article on People
Malaysias US$250,000-plus club to double in size over next decade, says HSBC

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13  HSBC Bank expects the number of Malaysians with at least US$250,000 (RM1.18 million) in financial assets to double in the next 10 years, underpinned by sustained economic growth and rising affluence, business publication The Edge reported today.

Kai Zhang, HSBCs head of international wealth and premier banking Asia, said Malaysias expanding economy was creating significant opportunities for wealth accumulation.

As the Malaysian economy grows, so does the opportunity to build and sustain wealth. We estimate that the percentage of adults in Malaysia with at least US$250,000 in financial wealth will double over the next decade, she said at the launch of HSBC Bank Malaysia Bhds upgraded HSBC Premier service.

The refreshed HSBC Premier package, first introduced in Malaysia 25 years ago, now focuses on four pillars  wealth, health, travel, and international banking  aimed at high-net-worth and affluent customers.

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HSBC Malaysias country head of international wealth and premier banking, Linda Yip, noted that wealthy Malaysians were seeking holistic solutions that balance wealth growth with lifestyle and health needs.

She cited HSBCs 2023 Quality of Life report, which found affluent Malaysians placed 78 per cent of their portfolios in investments such as bonds and equities, with 22 per cent in cash.

Over half (51 per cent) prioritised saving for leisure or vacations, while 48 per cent viewed physical and mental health as central to quality of life, she added.

The banks wealth services now offer access to more than 350 investment products across unit trusts, bonds, and protection plans, supported by digital tools for account opening, investment tracking, and insurance analysis. Health benefits include up to 30% discounts on screenings via Sunway Healthcare, and complimentary screenings for Premier Elite clients.

Travel perks range from enhanced credit card rewards and up to 12 free airport lounge visits, to travel insurance worth US$500,000 and roaming in over 120 countries. International banking privileges feature zero-fee global transfers to more than 50 countries, preferential forex rates, and access to 111 currencies.

HSBC, named Malaysias Best International Bank by Euromoney, is also offering promotional deposit rates of up to 10.88 per cent per annum for clients who invest or insure, and time deposit rates of 4.28 per cent per annum for fresh funds, The Edge said.
Family Resources employees celebrated 175 years of service.

The nonprofit celebrated the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The group started in 1849 to help orphans of soldiers. It now offers free services to survivors of violent crime

in eastern Iowa and western Illinois.

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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
Aug. 13The murder-suicide in Clarkston last weekend that left behind two young children was possibly the result of a mixture of chemical dependency and financial burdens, say some of the people most closely affected.

"It was an unfortunate event with the combination of several things: financial instability, and maybe alcohol and maybe mental health that contributed to the incident," said Brian Siegel, 60, great-grandfather of two children left behind by the incident.

On Saturday evening, Sergio Hernandez, 37, shot and killed his significant other, Eliza Elias, 32, before shooting himself. The couple's children, 1 and 3 years old, were in another part of the house with their great grandmother, Nemy Spiegel. They were unharmed.

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Spiegel said he had been out with Sergio and Eliza to dinner and a movie earlier. He said there were no warning signs that night or in recent days.

"I was with them hours before it happened. They were happy but they were jokingly saying things and she kept flicking Sergio's ears," Brian Spiegel said. "We went to a movie. We saw 'The Naked Gun' and then went to Zany Graze for drinks and nachos. The last thing my daughter said was, 'I love you, Dad, thank you,' and that was it."

Daily headlines, straight to your inboxRead it online first and stay up-to-date, delivered daily at 7 AM

Spiegel thinks that "horseplay" earlier possibly contributed to the "disaster" later at their home on the 1200 block of Boston Street. He noted that Hernandez was possibly unstable as "a recovering meth user" who was under financial stress. Hernandez, who had decades of experience as a cook, was a key part of the cooking staff at Applebee's in Lewiston. But his paycheck was stretched too thin to cover his two children in Clarkston as well as children from a previous relationship in California.

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"Sergio was a loving father," Spiegel said.

Elias called Spiegel "Dad" even though he was her step-grandfather. Elias was a licensed vocational nurse in California, and was working to get her license in Washington. The couple had moved away from Van Nuys, Calif., because the lower cost of living and better job prospects in Clarkston offered greater opportunity, Spiegel said. Both couples and the kids shared the house.

Nemy and Brian volunteered to take over raising the children. They hope to move to a new place within a month. Other family members created a GoFundMe page to contribute to costs of raising the kids, which had raised more than $19,000 as of Tuesday evening. The fundraising page can be found at bit.ly/3Hu1wcn.

The Asotin County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.

Ferguson can be reached at dferguson@lmtribune.com.
The family of 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier is searching for answers after the North Carolina teen was found dead in a Manatee County pond earlier this month.

Manatee County deputies say while testing is still needed to confirm the identity, evidence from the scene indicates the body is Pelletier.

Detectives and the medical examiner found no signs of foul play during Sundays autopsy, but the cause of death remains undetermined.

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Toxicology results could take several weeks.

According to investigators, Pelletier was last seen August 1 after relatives picked him up in Central Florida to take him to Brevard County.

Along the way, they say he began acting erratically and left the vehicle in Manatee County.

According to Giovannis family - his mothers best friend later found his body.

Detectives returned to the pond Tuesday with their dive team, searching for anything that might be connected to the case.

We are committed to seeking justice for Giovanni and finding the truth about what happened to him. Giovannis cousin Morgan Hull said, We want answers, not just for our family, but to ensure no other family has to endure the pain that we have.

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The Manatee County Sheriffs Office says the investigation is active, with several details they are not yet able to release.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  17 News politics reporter Jenny Huh is celebrating her time at KGET as she moves to cover politics at the state capitol.

Huh arrived at KGET two years ago. Shes covered history in former House Speaker Kevin McCarthys ouster from power followed by historic elections to fill that seat. Her coverage included local politics too  from battles from the city council to the Kern County supervisors.

She also had a chance to fill in on the anchor desk and interviewed Kern County newsmakers on Kern County In Depth.

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After excelling in Bakersfield, shes now moving to Sacramento where we know shell continue doing great work. Best of luck to Jenny Huh.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Dreaming of cooler temps? After winter 2024-25 brought major snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures to parts of the U.S (including Cincinnati), an "old-fashioned winter," as forecast by the Farmers' Almanac, may be welcome news for farmers  and the rest of us, too.

The 209th edition of the Farmers' Almanac, out now, forecasts "chill, snow, repeat" weather patterns for the upcoming 2025-26 winter season.

Here's what winter in Ohio is predicted to look like this year.

The Farmer's Almanac 2025-2026 winter outlook map.

What is the fall forecast for the Ohio Valley?

The arrival of the autumnal equinox Sept. 22 officially starts the fall season, and the Farmers' Almanac fall forecast predicts cooler-than-average temperatures for the Ohio Valley region.

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September and October will be cooler and drier than normal across the Midwest, including Ohio, according to The Old Farmers Almanac. Warm periods with scattered showers early and mid-month are expected before turning cooler. A mix of showers and sunshine with shifting temperatures (warm early, cooling mid-month, then warmer at the end) is expected in October.

What is Ohio's winter going to be like this year?

The Ohio Valley, which includes Greater Cincinnati, is "set for a classic winter wonderland" this year, according to the Farmers' Almanac. The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Midwest regions (Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin) are forecast to be very cold and snowy this winter.

As the snow gives way to very cold temperatures, snow moves into Kentucky and Ohio. The beginning of March brings snow to most of the region. The month ends with brisk, windy conditions, plus snow in the north.

What's the two-month forecast for the Ohio Valley?

Here's what The Old Farmers Almanac (not to be confused with the Farmers' Almanac) predicts the remainder of August and September will look like.

August

Aug. 12-16: Showers east, sunny west; warm.

Aug 17-28: Sunny, then showery; warm.

Aug 29-31: Sunny, warm.

September

Sep 1-6: Showers, then sunny; warm.

Sep 7-13: Showers, then sunny; warm east, cool west.

Sep 14-18: Showers, warm.

Sep 19-24: Sunny, cool.

Sep 25-30: Showers, then sunny; cool.

When does winter start?

Meteorological winter starts Dec. 1, and astronomical winter begins Dec. 21.

When will winter end?

The 2026 spring equinox falls on March 20, per the Farmers' Almanac. This signals the end of winter and the start of the new season. Meteorological spring starts March 1.

How does the Farmers' Almanac make its weather predictions?

The long-range forecasts for the Farmers' Almanac are calculated two years in advance and take "into consideration things like sunspot activity, tidal action of the Moon, the position of the planets, and a variety of other factors," according to the almanac's website.

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The Farmers' Almanac claims an 80% to 85% accuracy rate for its forecasts, although some experts have disputed those claims.

Did the Farmers' Almanac get its winter weather prediction right last year?

The Farmers' Almanac mentions in the new edition how its winter 2024-2025 forecast "for a mild winter in Texas and the Southern Plains hit the mark, and we correctly called the cold weather over the Northern Plains and Great Lakes."

The almanac also notes, "We also accurately forewarned of a very cold spell at the end of January," perhaps referencing some of winter 2024-2025's milestones, including the arctic air mass that contributed to cold weather advisories that month. "But La Nina threw a curveball, leaving us with fewer wet weather events than expected," the Farmers' Almanac said.

February also brought dangerously cold temperatures, but overall, the contiguous U.S. had the third-warmest winter on record, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, with an average temperature of 34.1 degrees Fahrenheit, 1.9 degrees above average.

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There's a chance a La Nina winter could be in store, according to the Climate Prediction Center. That could mean cold and snow for the Northwest, dry conditions in the South and higher-than-average temperatures in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.

The Farmers' Almanac creates its forecasts "using a proprietary formula that adapts to the mysteries of nature and the ever-changing world in which we live," this edition notes. "The basis of our prediction method was developed by our founding editor according to correlations between celestial events and various meteorological conditions."

While scientists may question the accuracy of The Farmers' Almanac  and the competing The Old Farmer's Almanac  the guide, which includes planting tips and an astronomical calendar, remains an interesting read.

Ohio Connect Team reporters Mike Snider and Chad Murphy contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Farmers' Almanac predicts 'winter wonderland' for Ohio. See forecast
LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN)  Lebanon was recently named one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, and city leaders are working to keep up with the growth.

When people come to Lebanon, first of all, I hope they see that this is a great city with great people, Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell said.

From new subdivisions to future booming businesses, Lebanon is growing fast.

It was ranked the 12th fastest-growing city in the U.S., with a population jump of 8.9% in just one year, from July 2023 to July 2024.

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News 2 On Tour | Explore the communities that shape Middle Tennessee

I think they are looking for community, and thats what we hold dear to us, Lebanon City Council Member Camille Burdine expressed.

Now home to more than 51,000 people and a daytime population of 58,000, Lebanon is working to manage the impact of more families, traffic and pressure on infrastructure.

Weve had to put a lot of money into infrastructure, Burdine said. We have recently had to ask our taxpayers to pay a garbage fee.

Before I became mayor, one of the things I noticed was there wasnt a plan; things were just happening, and if you grow without a plan, it is not going to work, Bell said.

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Schools are expanding.

Those schools are adding new buildings all the time, and it is something we watch, Bell said.

The city is rolling out smart traffic signals to improve traffic signals to improve traffic flow while also expanding some roads.

We are looking at putting some turn lanes in certain areas of Main Street, Bell said. TDOT is also spending over $100 million here. They are widening the Hartsville Pike, which will help traffic in the north part of town.

(Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN)

Lebanon is also raising the standard for how new homes look to ensure neighborhoods match the citys character.

We passed a regulation on single family homes as far as their facade and what the outside materials look like to make sure they are of good quality, Bell said. We want to have beautiful neighborhoods, tree lined neighborhoods with street trees, sidewalks. We want neighborhoods that the people who live there would be proud of, but the rest of the city would be proud of too.

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City leaders are also working to preserve the citys charm and character while welcoming the growth.

The past is always important to me; it is a great place to raise a family, it always has been, but we need to make sure that continues, Bell said.

New developments must also preserve some of the citys natural beauty.

If a piece of property is wooded, they cant just strip the trees down; they have to save some of those, and so we have taken some great strides in making sure what development does come is quality, Bell said.

How downtown Lebanons Capitol Theatre preserves decades of history

At the same time, the city is investing in what is already here.

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Weve had a lot of investors come in and invest in our square, and we have been trying to give out some incentives to bring people here and make it a little easier to redo our square to make those renovations, Burdine said.

But the heart of this growth story still comes down to the people.

For those that have been here a long time, it really is a challenge because they dont want growth, and I can understand that, but as a council person, we are still trying to make this a community, and its all about the people, Burdine concluded.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WFXR)- Police in Martinsville said they discovered a woman who had been shot while responding to a large disturbance Tuesday night in the 500 block of Forest Street.

According to the press release, the woman was taken to SOVAH Martinsville Hospital were she succumbed to her injuries.

She has been identified as Crystal Galloway Jordan, 39, of Martinsville.

Lynchburg teen charged with reckless driving after deadly crash in Amelia

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During the investigation, police said a 20-year-old Danville man arrived at the hospital with gunshot injuries. Police believe his injuries are related to the Forest Street shooting.

The Henry County Sheriffs Office, Martinsville Sheriffs Office and the Virginia State Police also responded to both locations and are assisting in the investigation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering revoking the authorization of Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine for healthy children under 5 years old, the company confirmed Wednesday.

The move would add another barrier for parents who want to vaccinate healthy children, as shots from Moderna and Novavax were approved for more limited populations.

In May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children or pregnant women.

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The CDC then updated its immunization schedule to reflect that children with no underlying health condition may receive COVID-19 vaccines after consulting with a health care provider  whats known as shared decisionmaking.

If the FDA pulls its emergency use authorization (EUA), Pfizers vaccine would no longer be available to any children younger than 5. Right now, Moderna and Novavax shots could be administered off label to healthy children.

We are currently in discussions with the agency on potential paths forward and have requested that the EUA for this age group remain in place for the 2025-2026 season, a Pfizer spokesperson told The Hill.

It is important to note that these deliberations are not related to the safety and efficacy of the vaccine which continues to demonstrate a favorable profile, the company added.

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The Guardian first reported on the FDAs potential move.

In a statement to The Hill, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Department said it wouldnt comment on potential changes.

The COVID-19 pandemic ended with the expiration of the federal public health emergency in May 2023. We do not comment on potential, future regulatory changes. Unless officially announced by HHS, discussion about future agency action should be regarded as pure speculation, HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon said.

Pfizer has had full FDA approval for its COVID-19 vaccine for people 12 years old and older since 2022.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 hero FDNY firefighter was arrested for attacking a fellow smoke-eater with a chair in a Staten Island fire station, police said Wednesday.

Firefighter Christopher Mullin, 53, was busted Monday for the Friday night firefighter-on-firefighter attack in Rescue 5 headquarters on Clove Road near Targee St. in Concord, cops said.

During an argument with the 62-year-old firefighter, Mullin allegedly pulled the other mans chair out from under him, causing him to fall to the floor and hit his left arm and head to the ground, according to court documents.

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Mullin repeatedly punched the older firefighter as he lay on the ground and then picked up a chair and struck [him] once about the body with said chair, the documents said.

By the time the fight was broken up, the older firefighter had suffered minor injuries to his head, hip, elbows and hands, officials said. He was taken to an area hospital for treatment.

The attack was reminiscent of a drunken 2003 New Years Eve clash at a Staten Island firehouse that led to a firefighter being repeatedly struck with a chair and hospitalized, and a half-dozen firefighters and their superiors being suspended and reassigned for drinking on the job.

It was not immediately clear what sparked last weeks Bravest brawl. The firefighter that Mullin attacked was not in Rescue 5, but the team shares quarters with firefighters from Engine 160 and Division 8, officials said.

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Alcohol did not play a role in the incident, an FDNY official with knowledge of the case said.

Mullin surrendered to authorities Monday and was charged with second-degree assault, harassment and weapons possession. At his arraignment later that day, the Staten Island district attorneys office asked that Mullin be held on $10,000 bail, but a judge ordered him released without bail.

Hes currently suspended without pay as the case is being investigated, an FDNY spokeswoman said.

The safety of the brave men and women of the FDNY is our utmost priority, and behavior of this kind is unacceptable, the spokeswoman said.

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A call to Mullins attorney was not immediately returned.

In 2017, Mullin and his team at Rescue 5, known as Blue Thunder, were awarded the Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal for helping to pull a firefighter from another firehouse out of a burning building after the firefighter fell through the floor and was trapped in the basement.

In New Years Eve 2003 fight, a booze-fueled brawl broke out between two firefighters in Engine 161 and Ladder 76 Tottenville during a disagreement over the date of Elvis Presleys birthday, officials said.

A firefighter wound up critically injured in the incident after he was struck over the head with a metal folding chair. The smoke-eater who attacked him faced criminal charges and four other firefighters were suspended for trying to cover up the on-the-job drinking. Their captain was demoted and forced to retire.
(The Center Square)  The federal government is withholding funding to the Washington Department of Ecology that impacts the states efforts to mitigate coastal hazards.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, is withholding approximately $114,000 out of $250,000 in grant awards for the departments Advancing an Equitable Framework for Coastal Resilience project.

The goal of this project is to reduce environmental and health disparities by supporting local efforts to address coastal hazards.

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Washington Department of Ecology Deputy Communications Director Andrew Wineke told The Center Square that the department needs to better understand the risks facing communities across more than 3,300 miles of marine coastline in Western Washington. This includes identifying hazards, such as sea level rise, coastal flooding, beach erosion and saltwater intrusion

This grant was helping us build a community inventory to guide our hazard assistance and planning efforts  along with the science and engineering that informs those strategies, Wineke said to The Center Square in an email.

The withholding of the grant is part of the Trump administrations policy of terminating programs deemed unnecessary and reducing federal spending altogether.

Prior to NOAAs decision to withhold funding, the Department of Ecology was working with a contractor to conduct outreach in coastal communities and come up with a strategic plan.

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After the federal grant was pulled, the department was able to use state funding to continue to carry out some of that work. However, Wineke notes the work had to be scaled back some.

Specifically, the technical and engineering recommendations were not able to be completed, so there are still gaps in our coastal response strategy, Wineke said.

The loss of the NOAA grant funding was a setback on the Department of Ecologys work, but the impacts of coastal hazards remain a priority.

Impacts like sea level rise and ocean acidification affect coastal communities and tribes differently, and we need to understand those differences in order to invest public funds and state resources where they will do the most good, Wineke explained.

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The Center Square recently reported on Washington Attorney General Nick Brown suing the Trump administration over more than $9 million in withheld NOAA funding dedicated to mitigating climate change, including the grant funding for the coastal resilience project.

NOAA did not respond to The Center Squares request for comment at the time of this publication.
Dozens of soldiers in Mali have been detained on allegations of plotting to overthrow the countrys military Government, according to multiple sources.

Reports suggest the arrests, which began several days ago and continued overnight, are part of a sweeping operation within the Armed forces, though the authorities have made no official comment.

Initial claims that senior figures such as Gen Abass Dembele and Gen Nema Sagara were among those detained have been denied by sources close to the generals, though the wave of arrests appears linked to attempts to destabilise the institutions, according to security and political insiders.

The alleged coup plot comes against a backdrop of mounting political pressure on the junta, which has been criticised for delaying promised elections and consolidating its hold on power. Former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga have faced legal action in recent weeks, with Mara detained since 1 August and Maiga under judicial scrutiny. The military government, led by Gen Assimi Goita since seizing power in coups in 2020 and 2021, dissolved all political parties in May after rare protests, effectively curtailing organised political opposition. The transition period was controversially extended in July, allowing Goita to remain in power until at least 2030.

The unrest also reflects worsening insecurity in northern Mali, where jihadist insurgents have been gaining ground despite the juntas alliance with Russian partners and regional cooperation with Niger and Burkina Faso. Since 2012, Islamist violence has persisted as a major challenge, undermining one of the central justifications for military rule. The ongoing instability, combined with internal dissent within the armed forces, underscores the fragility of the current political order and the uncertainty surrounding Malis democratic future.
GRAND JUNCTION Colo. (KREX)- Federal funding that was once pulled from two water projects in Orchard Mesa, has now been released. A major win for local water managers and the Grand Valley.

Two critical water projects in Orchard Mesa are moving forward again, after the federal government re-released $10.5 million in funding. These came from the Bureau of Reclamations Drought Mitigation Program, and were originally awarded, then pulled back earlier this year due to funding.

Jackie Fisher, District Manager for the Orchard Mesa Irrigation District, says that these funds being released is of high importance for the entire Colorado River system.

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First of all we are more than grateful for the partnership between all of the agencies and entities that took in pulling these applications together to begin with and for the opportunity that is provided.

The first project (called the Conveyance Upgrades) will replace 8.4 miles of open canals with pipe cutting water loss from evaporation and seepage and improving water quality downstream. The second (the Metering Efficiency Project) will modernize water management systems throughout the Grand Valley helping to ensure water stays in the Colorado River where its needed most.

Fisher says these projects were likely re-funded because of their location at the head of the 15-mile reach. A stretch of river critical for endangered fish and regional water supply. In a year of drought, she says this work is more important than ever. Next steps are already underway. For communities still waiting on their funding, Fisher has a message:

Remain positive and persistent! Lean on the connections that you have established, but make new connections if thats what you have to do. To get where you want to see your organization.

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Other projects across Colorado (including some on the Grand Mesa and in Fruita) are still waiting for their funding to be released. Lawmakers say theyre continuing to push for action.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A sunset over the Denny Chimes on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on Thursday June 20, 2024. A federal judge Wednesday refused to issue an injunction against Alabama's anti-DEI law in a lawsuit brought by University of Alabama system professors and students. (Will McLelland for Alabama Reflector)

A federal judge Wednesday declined to block Alabamas 2024 state law banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and so-called divisive concepts.

U.S. District Judge David Proctor wrote in a 146-page opinion that professors and students in the University of Alabama System who filed a lawsuit challenging SB 129 did not meet any of the requirements needed to issue a preliminary injunction, saying that a preliminary injunction is an extraordinary and drastic remedy that is never awarded as of right.

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The court concludes that plaintiffs have not established the requirements for the issuance of a preliminary injunction against the Boards enforcement of SB 129, Proctor wrote.

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Proctor issued a separate order dismissing Gov. Kay Ivey as a defendant in the lawsuit and wrote in the opinion that none of the injuries alleged in the lawsuit or in the hearing stem from actions taken by the Governor in her official capacity.

There is simply nothing in SB 129, the allegations of the complaint, or the evidence presented at the evidentiary hearing that implicates Governor Ivey in any action taken in relation to SB 129 (other than her signing it after the Alabama Legislature passed it and her comments while doing so). These allegations are insufficient to establish that Plaintiffs alleged injuries are in any way traceable to Governor Ivey, Proctor wrote.

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The lawsuit, brought by professors and students in the University of Alabama system against Gov. Kay Ivey and the university system Board of Trustees, alleged that the law stifled instructional activity and violated the First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The anti-DEI law banned public funding for diversity and inclusion initiatives and the teaching of so-called divisive concepts, such as people of one race being inherently responsible for past crimes committed by members of that race.

Messages seeking comments were left with Jay Ezelle, who represents the UA Board of Trustees.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, whose office represented Ivey, said he looks forward to defending Proctors order if appealed.

I applaud the district courts commonsense ruling recognizing that the First Amendment does not give university professors a right to compel students to assent to racialized DEI concepts at odds with our founding ideals. As one of the plaintiffs herself recognized, no credible educator should teach such things, Marshall said in a statement.

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Cassandra Simon, a professor in the University of Alabamas School of Social Work said during evidentiary hearings that nobody should be (compelling or directing students to affirm, adopt, or adhere divisive concepts) and no credible educator I could imagine would do those things. She also testified that she was concerned that topics and reading assignments in her course could be construed as involving divisive concepts and that she was told by her administrator that if she did not cancel a student project about social injustice, she would face progressive disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Antonio Ingram, a NAACP Legal Defense Fund lawyer representing the plaintiffs in the case, said in an interview Wednesday afternoon that while a stay was denied and Ivey was dismissed from the case, the lawsuit will move forward with the UA Board of Trustees as the sole defendants.

While this is a setback, we are still committed to fighting this discriminatory law that is, in our opinion, violating the First Amendment rights of students and professors, Ingram said.

Proctor wrote in the opinion that the professors claims related to classroom instruction were unlikely to succeed in court. A professors academic freedom does not replace the universitys authority to control curriculum, he stated, and cited precedent stating that when a university and a professor disagree on what should be taught, the university must have the final say.

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That final say includes the authority to direct the professor to refrain from expressing certain viewpoints in the classroom, Proctor wrote.

Ingram said the judges opinion is quite extraordinary and a departure from centuries of American university historical sort of existence.

The approach that this opinion represents to the university system is belied by centuries of instructional environments. Universities typically do not constrain their professors from teaching inclusive, accurate curricula, and todays preliminary injunction represents a departure from centuries of American university historical existence, Ingram said.

In briefs filed after hearings in late June and early July, plaintiffs argued that a new law is leading to viewpoint discrimination, claiming that professors, fearing enforcement, have to self-censor and change their teaching methods. One professor, Dana Patton, testified she was investigated after an anonymous complaint and warned by Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, that lawmakers wouldnt let this go.

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The Alabama Attorney Generals office, representing Gov. Kay Ivey, argued in their post-hearing brief that these fears arent objectively reasonable since the professors stated they dont intend to violate the law. Attorneys for the UA Board, argued that classroom speech is government speech, not private speech, and that the University of Alabama has the right to reasonably control the content of their curriculum.

In July 2024, ahead of the anti-DEI laws implementation, the UA system announced it planned to close the schools DEI offices and replace them with offices that seemingly addressed similar goals. Later in August, UA closed its Black Student Union and Safe Zone, its LGBTQ+ resource center, citing compliance with SB 129.

Student plaintiffs also claimed the law caused their organizations to lose funding and campus spaces. The defendants countered that some of these injuries are monetary and that, in certain cases, students chose not to apply for available funding.

In response to the plaintiffs argument that the laws language was unconstitutionally vague, Proctor wrote that terms like objective manner and compel assent used in the law are not vague to a person of common intelligence. Proctor concluded that the law provides fair notice of the conduct it punishes and that the knowingly violates provision in the law reduces vagueness concerns.

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By requiring proof of actual awareness, the phrase provides fair notice to individuals about the kind of conduct that will result in a violation, allowing them to conform their behavior to the law. It also constrains enforcement discretion by demanding evidence of a culpable mental state, thereby avoiding arbitrary or discriminatory application. The same is true for the term violate, Proctor wrote.

Ingram said that while he is still examining the Proctors opinion, he feels some parts may be used to advocate for academic freedom on campus.

The judge reiterates that SB 129 does not apply to reading lists, and so professors should be able to assign books and articles of diversity of opinions, including those that implicate divisive concepts, Ingram said, adding that were going to continue to support Black and queer students and students of marginalized background as they grapple with this anti diversity, equity and inclusion law and how it really restricts their full freedom and rights on campus.

This story was updated at 6:41 p.m. with comments from the Attorney General Office and additional context.
A federal judge agreed with a transgender teacher that state law prohibiting teachers from telling students their preferred pronouns discriminated based on sex and altered her employment conditions, violating federal law.

U.S. District Judge Mark Walker's decision comes a month after the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals shot down Walker's preliminary injunction, in which he ruled that Hillsborough County teacher Katie Wood's right to free speech was infringed.

More: Divided appeals court backs Florida ban on preferred pronouns in school classrooms

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In Walker's Aug. 13 order, he sided with Wood's claim that a provision of state law (HB 1069) discriminated against Wood based on sex and left Wood worse-off in their employment conditions. It says a teacher "may not provide to a student his or her preferred personal title or pronouns if such preferred personal title or pronouns do not correspond to his or her sex."

Wood is a transgender woman who teaches algebra at Lennard High School in Ruskin. She filed the lawsuit in December 2023 with two other teachers, contending the new state law under the First Amendment, the Civil Rights Act and the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection clause.

"We're happy with the decision ... we're glad the court correctly recognized that the law discriminates against our clients and violates their rights under Title VII," said Samuel Boyd, an attorney with the Southern Poverty Law Center who represents Wood.

Requests for comment are pending with the Department of Education and the Hillsborough County School Board.

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This challenge to the state's so-called "anti-pronoun" law is part of a larger national conversation on how far a state can go on regulating classroom speech. The law underscores a continued conservative effort to limit LGBTQ+ expression in schools.

'State of Florida has a First Amendment problem,' judge says

Since he said he is bound by the appellate court's ruling, Walker denied Wood's claims that denying her use of preferred pronouns in the classroom violated her First Amendment rights. But even while ruling that officials couldn't punish Wood for using preferred pronouns, he said the "state of Florida has a First Amendment problem."

Walker's latest order also disagreed that Wood's circumstance falls under a legally-defined hostile work environment.

"This Court in no way intends to diminish Ms. Woods experiences and their impact on her," Walker wrote. "But while Ms. Wood should not be treated worse than anyone under the hostile work environment standard, she is also not entitled to more protection than other plaintiffs who experience deplorable conduct at work."

This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. USA Today Network-Florida First Amendment reporter Stephany Matat is based in Tallahassee, Fla. She can be reached at SMatat@gannett.com. On X: @stephanymatat.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Federal judge: Florida transgender teacher suffered sex discrimination
Following allegations of squalid conditions, a federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to ensure a so-called "holding facility" for detaining migrants in a New York City federal building is not overcrowded and that detainees are provided with hygiene products and confidential access to lawyers.

Last month, videos obtained by ABC News appeared to show the conditions inside the facility on the 10th floor at 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan's Foley Square. Videos shared by a detainee with a local civic group appeared to show over a dozen people inside the room, with several detainees lying on the cement floor on thermal blankets. It also showed two toilets that were separated from the rest of the men by only a waist-high wall.

Attorneys representing one of the migrants detained there submitted nearly two dozen declarations that claimed individuals were held in crowded conditions and were not given the opportunity to shower, change clothes or brush their teeth despite being held for a week or longer.

Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images - PHOTO: ICE Detains Immigrants Inside New York City Courthouses

MORE: 'Like dogs': Video appears to show migrants held in federal building in NYC

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"They have access to only one or two toilets shared among 40 to 90 people, and the toilets are in open view of the room, so some have resorted to try to wrap their aluminum sleeping blanket around themselves for privacy," attorney Heather Gregorio said at a court hearing earlier Tuesday.

In addition, detainees have claimed they were detained for several days or even weeks in the facility.

The Department of Homeland Security has disputed claims of overcrowding and unhygienic conditions at the facility.

"This order and this lawsuit are driven by complete fiction about 26 Federal Plaza," DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement to ABC News. "The fact of the matter here is the Trump administration is carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history and is removing the worst of the worst from American communities. Any claim of subprime conditions at ICE facilities are categorically false."

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She said DHS will appeal the judge's order.

DHS also said the facility serves as a processing center where migrants are briefly held before being transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities.

In court proceedings Tuesday, a lawyer representing the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York disputed some of the claims the detainees had made and stressed that the facility was designed for a short-term stay.

MORE: Top private prison companies see profits amid administration's immigration crackdown

"Doesn't your argument, to the extent it relies on the fact that the particular facility was intended for short-term use, boil down to saying that unconstitutional conditions of confinement are OK as long as they don't go on too long," U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan asked.

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"I wouldn't put it that way, your Honor," Attorney Jeffrey S. Oestericher said in response.

Oestericher also disputed that the rooms in the facility were overcrowded saying that presently there are about 26 people spread across four different rooms.

The judge pointed to affidavits filed by groups representing detainees that claimed as many as 90 people were being held in several hundred square feet of space.

David Dee Delgado/Reuters - PHOTO: U.S. immigration court

MORE: Federal law enforcement agents are interviewing unaccompanied migrant children at shelters

Kaplan said he wondered if one could infer that conditions had improved in anticipation of a lawsuit after videos of the facility were published in media outlets.

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During the proceedings Tuesday, Oestericher said he did not dispute that the detainees at the facility were only being given two meals instead of three per day, that the toilets were in the holding area where the migrants were being detained and that they were only being given blankets, not beds or sleeping mats.

According to the complaint filed by the ACLU and other civic groups, one woman detained at the facility was not able to obtain menstrual products "because the guards only gave the women in her hold room two pads to share among them." She had to remain in her blood-soaked clothes for several days, the groups claimed.

In his order, Kaplan said the holding areas should be cleaned three times a day and supplied with soap, towels, feminine hygiene supplies and other hygiene products.

DHS was also ordered to provide all detainees "within one hour" of their arrival, a notice of their rights informing them they are entitled to consult with attorneys confidentially.

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Several attorneys had complained that they have been unable to locate their clients who they believed were held at the facility.

"Today's order sends a clear message: ICE cannot hold people in abusive conditions and deny them their Constitutional rights to due process and legal representation," said Eunice Cho, senior staff attorney at the ACLU's National Prison Project in a statement. "We'll continue to fight to ensure that peoples' rights are upheld at 26 Federal Plaza and beyond."

ABC News has requested comment from DHS on the judge's order.
The North Tooele Fire District is participating in the federal governments Community Wildfire Defense Program for a second year. Given the number of wildfires in the region this year, the program  and its funding  could not have come at a better time.

One may think residents in Utah know enough about how to prevent wildfires, given the number of them weve seen this year alone. North Tooele Fire says they have had at least 100 wildfires in the county this year.

What the firefighters know, and what caused them to apply for the grant, is that despite the regularity of wildfires, people are still surprised when they happen and also to hear that the fire may have been preventable.

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People have this idea that itll never happen to me, said John Smith, a firefighter with North Tooele Fire District. It happens often. ... People have a misconception about wildfires. They dont realize that each spark ... every fire can be put out with a cup of water, if you catch it early enough.

The Community Wildfire Defense Program assists fire districts in involving the community to defend against the threat of wildfires that may exist in their towns, including residential properties.

The U.S. Forest Service runs the program and it provides funding to the state, which distributes it to the districts that applied and were awarded the grant. The Forest Service encourages firefighters to use strategies they have developed to mitigate wildfires in communities.

There are two parts to North Tooeles implementation of the program: Education of the community to increase their understanding of how to prevent wildfires, and the ability to employ two seasonal workers who can assist in extinguishing a fire.

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The approach utilized by North Tooele firefighters is straightforward. They walk through the communities of the North Tooele region  Stansbury Park, Erda, Lake Point and Pine Canyon  and talk to residents about wildfire prevention. They also offer to assist with chipping limbs or other actions that can help with wildfire prevention.

The fire district also hosts presentations on what residents can do to limit their chances of a wildfire on their property  not flicking cigarette butts on dry weeds or brush on a hot, windy day, for example. They also host free dumpster days when residents can dump their tree limbs and other overgrown, dry greenery that is too dangerous to have close to the home.

A Smokey the Bear statue has also made its way to Stansbury Park as a result of the grant, allowing children to take pictures and learn about preventing wildfires.

There have been six houses in the county destroyed by wildfires this year, five of which started on the residents property, Smith said. The need for the Community Wildfire Defense Program will continue to exist in order to keep the community safe.

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As useful as all of this work is, none of it is free, or even cheap, according to the North Tooele Fire District. The grant provides the district with $381,250 to use over three years. Halfway through the funding period, firefighters say these dollars have been well spent, especially this year with the many fires in the region.

Kim Clausing, program manager for North Tooele Fire District, is responsible for finding funds to support the districts programs. This year, she has applied for 60 grants of various funding sizes.

She  or anyone at North Tooele Fire  is not 100% sure funding will be available in the future, given the federal budget cuts that may be implemented. Clausing is also trying not to pass the costs of these programs on to taxpayers in the region.

This is a difficult concept to put into action, given that North Tooele Fire District serves slightly more than 23,000 people, but also protects some federal land that cannot be taxed. Taxes for the fire district are a reality, then, for all residents.

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Regardless, she, too, has seen the value of the community defense program to North Tooele and, as such, she will continue to seek funding to support the districts efforts.

Wildfires are something were all fighting, Clausing said. We all want to keep our community safe. The firefighters are doing that with this grant.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A date has been set for the jury trial of the federally indicted East Memphis doctor.

The date for the jury trial has been set for December 1, 2025. The trial is expected to last 18 days.

A new judge was transferred to the case of a federally indicted East Memphis Doctor, Sanjeev Kumar, last month.

New judge transferred to federally indicted doctor case

The United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, Western Division, announced that the case was transferred to Chief U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.

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A federally indicted East Memphis doctor can practice medicine while his case makes its way through the legal system.

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar

WREG told you about Dr. Sanjeev Kumar back in February, who was indicted on 23 charges, including healthcare fraud and coercing people into sexual acts.

Dr. Kumar is also accused of conducting unnecessary medical procedures and reusing devices that were designated as single use without properly cleaning or disinfecting the devices.

ORIGINAL: East Memphis doctor indicted, accused of fraud, sexual coercion

In April, WREG learned that the state of Tennessee recently issued a disciplinary report saying Dr. Kumar is not permitted to prescribe Schedule II drugs while his case is in the legal system.

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However, his attorney told WREG that scheduling those drugs likely wouldnt happen.

To be clear, Dr. Kumar denies any wrongdoing. His attorney said reopening the clinic is about patients deciding who they want to receive health care from.

Certainly, no doubt based on the media in this case that everybody is aware of the governments side of the story and the allegations there and if a patient still elects to see Dr. Kumar because the treatment they received  they believe is appropriate, that is something that every individual in the United States should be able to decide to do and thats really what the judges ruling means here, attorney Ron Chapman said.

Federally indicted doctor to re-open clinic soon

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In filings submitted by Kumars attorney, its cited hes one of only 300 specialists nationwide in gynecologic oncology and high-risk pelvic surgery, saying the Poplar avenue Clinic where he practices is the only clinic providing specialized services in a 200-mile radius of Memphis.

There are many different types of specialists here but thats a rare type of specialty, Chapman said. While there are people who have that specialty, Dr. Kumar has written and published a wealth of papers, hes had groundbreaking research in this area.

But re-opening the clinic comes with stipulations:

No re-using single use scopes

Any and all new patients must be notified that Dr. Kumar is looking at charges so they can decide if they want to receive health care from him

Dr. Kumar cant perform hysteroscopies (patients have to be referred to another doctor)

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Ron Chapman cited the influence the pre-trial publicity has made on his clients case.

It actually causes people to reframe the way that they thought about their healthcare, Chapman said.

In April, WREG reported that the clinic was not open yet, but it was expected to re-open in the coming days.

According to Google, the clinic is temporarily closed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A Baton Rouge woman spent two months in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Nearly two weeks after her release, she expressed fear that it could happen again and joy at being home with her family.

Paola Clouatre, 25, was released the morning of July 28. The mother of two had been detained for two months at the Richwood facility in Monroe before a judge ordered her case be reexamined and issued a stay of deportation.

The Clouatres discussed the situation in a sit-down interview with Louisiana First Investigates, describing the happiness of being reunited and the fear that it could happen again.

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Its like something you cant describe, Paola said.

Paola had come with her mother to the United States from Mexico when she was a teen, but she never knew her estranged mother had missed an immigration hearing that would lead to her daughter being issued a deportation order in 2018.

We dont talk, Paola said. She doesnt know her grandkids.

Paola was initially arrested by ICE at the New Orleans headquarters, where the couple went to clear up a deportation order discovered online. Adrian Clouatre said agents arrested his wife after they were told to sit in the lobby following what appeared to be successful interview sessions.

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They let us say goodbye to each other, Paola said. I was trying to process what was happening.

A newborn was waiting in the car, and Paolas body also did not have time to process the situation.

I breastfeed my baby, Paola said. I just started leaking, and my shirt was all wet. My baby was hungry.

The woman with no criminal record traded that wet shirt out at a Mississippi jail.

We used the jail uniforms, Paola said.

The next uniform came at Richwood, where guards gave her a blue uniform. This denoted a criminal record.

They took the other people to the dorms, and they took me to a cell, Paola said.

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After two days, guards gave her a brown shirt, which is for people without criminal records. She was allowed to be with other women.

I was feeling more emotional support with them, Paola said.

Meanwhile, Adrian fought to bring his wife home. He explored legal options and spoke with many news organizations, including Louisiana First Investigates.

You just have to keep pressing, Adrian said.

The Marine veteran has always been a fighter, but he never imagined he would battle his own government in public.

I never saw myself doing any of this, Adrian said.

As the Clouatres story made national headlines, Paola said she was not aware her story was making waves. She never saw the news stories that sometimes aired on the televisions at the detention center.

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My husband mentioned it to me about the news, but I didnt believe it, Paola said.

The woman was released on recognizance, something the Clouatres said is almost unheard of during this federal administration.

People arent even getting bond, Adrian said. Theyre denying people bond left and right. So, to get released by recognizance was completely unexpected.

Paola said the two months in detention changed her. Her sleep schedule is altered, and her eating habits are different.

Now, I feel scared going outside, Paola said.

Still, the joy of being home surrounded by loved ones is something the Clouatres said they will never take for granted.

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Its relief, happiness, love, Paola said.

Part Two of Louisiana First Investigates story on the Clouatres will air Thursday at 9 p.m. on Fox 44 and at 10 p.m. on NBC 33.

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.
Holly Schaefer is retired and now living in Marion County. She told Action 9, I had a broker up in Illinois, and I wanted someone down here who I could see face to face. But she claims after hiring Michael Hainsworth as a financial advisor, her money is missing and now she doesnt know where he is either.

Consumer Investigator Jeff Deal asked, Did he ever explain why he didnt have the money, or what he did with it?

Schaefer answered, No, no, no.

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She filed a report with the Marion County Sheriffs Office and claims shes out nearly $200,000. Other seniors told Action 9, Michael Hainsworth disappeared with their money, too.

Holly Schaefer said Hainsworth had a nice office and people spoke highly of him. She and her husband used to see him at their church from time to time and now they feel betrayed.

Michael Hainsworth is seen on some YouTube videos for his business Hainsworth Wealth Advisory. The videos use words like Honor, Wealth and Accountability to promote the business.

After visiting his Ocala office, Holly Schaefer believed he was the real deal but not anymore.

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It feels violating. You know, putting your trust in someone and just having it just trashed really hurts, she said.

Schaefer showed Action 9 documents indicating she handed over around $195,000 to Hainsworth. Its money she claims he agreed to invest in bond funds that would provide monthly payouts.

She explained, Everything was fine. I was getting my monthly disbursement for the first three months.

But then, Hainsworth let her know the payout date changed, and her money was going to be late. Then there were more excuses about late payments and then the payments stopped coming in altogether.

Eventually, after she requested all her money back and there were more broken promises about getting her money, her husband received a text message from Hainsworth.

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The first part of the message read, I am not going to be able to pay everything back in one total amount. It asked them to contact his attorney about a legally binding payback agreement. The message then finished with: If you decide to go a different route it will diminish or eliminate any chance of me paying you back.

Records show in 2014, Hainsworth was sanctioned by FINRA, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, with a 30-day suspension and $10,000 fine for allegedly sending misleading emails to potential investors.

In 2022, when he had an office in southwest Florida, a man in in Lee County sued claiming Hainsworth deceived him into investing nearly $250,000 into a fictitious annuity and nonexistent real estate investments. That case was settled out of court.

No one answered when the Action 9 team stopped at Hainsworths Ocala office or when Consumer Investigator Jeff Deal called the business phone number.

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The website Realtor.com shows the home Hainsworth owned in Ocala sold on July 30th. About a month ago, there was a post from his Facebook account indicating he was in Roatan, Honduras and he needed a mechanic to work on his boat.

Holly Schaefer is worried he may be out of the country; shes no longer getting the dividends she counted on and wonders if shell ever see her money again.

She said, That was $1,500 a month. Its gone. And that doesnt sound like a lot of money, but when youre on a fixed income, it makes a big difference.

The Action 9 team heard from a handful of other seniors in Marion County who claim they also trusted Hainsworth with their money and now believe it could be gone.

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On Tuesday afternoon, the Marion County Sheriffs Office posted on its Facebook page about this being a fraud investigation. It believes there are other victims and wants anyone who gave money to Hainsworth to contact Detective Caruthers at 352-351-4776 or 352-732-9111.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Two men pose with a dead elk in a photo released by FWP. (Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks photo)

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks issued warrants for the arrest of a Michigan father and son, following a series of wildlife violations in Treasure County, the department said in a Wednesday press release.

Ronald Schubert and his son, Chad Schubert, both of Belleville, Michigan, have each been charged with felony unlawful possession of a trophy bull elk.

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Additionally, Chad Schubert has been charged with an additional felony for tampering with evidence and four misdemeanors including: hunting during a closed season; failure to obtain landowner permission for hunting; waste of a game animal; and violation of a commission or department rule for failure to return to a kill site.

Ronald Schubert has also been charged with misdemeanor criminal trespass.

According to FWP, the Rosebud County Sheriffs Office provided information about the wildlife violations to the department. An investigation by an FWP warden found that Chad Schubert allegedly killed a trophy bull elk without a valid permit. The animal was killed on private land, with a rifle, during archery-only season. The elks head was removed and transported and the rest of the animal was left to waste, the release said.

Further investigation showed that Ronald Schubert was present at the time and allegedly assisted with removal and transport of the head and antlers.

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Chad Schubert also faces additional pending charges for violations related to the hunting of deer, antelope, turkeys and mountain lions in Rosebud County, the release said.

Rosebud County Sheriffs Office, Treasure County Attorneys Office, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources all assisted in the investigation, FWP said in a release.

Penalties for the violations include more $60,000 in fines and restitution, as well as possible imprisonment in a county detention center, and loss of privileges to hunt, fish and trap.
A female serial killer murdered her 11 husbands, and she was even accused of serving "tainted" soup, prosecutors say.

Kolsum Akbari is now facing execution in Iran after the 22-year killing spree. She is known as the "Iranian Black Widow" serial killer. The case is "one of the countrys most extensive serial murder cases," according to Iran Wire.

Kolsum Akbari 'Fatally Poisoned' Her Husbands, Reports Say

Akbari is accused of murdering her husbands by poisoning them, the Telegraph reported.

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The motive for the murders was to get an "inheritance," and she got away with it for decades, according to the site.

Altogether, she had "18 temporary marriages and 19 permanent unions," according to Hayom.

 An woman who KILLED 11 HUSBANDS over a 22 year period has been dubbed as the 'Iranian Black Widow' by the media after her case found notoriety.



Kolsum Akbari, 56, systematically married elderly men before murdering them with diabetes drugs and industrial alcohol to inherit pic.twitter.com/6umvf57MOY  Shadow Observer (@TheShadowObs) August 9, 2025

However, Iran Wire reported that she also poisoned the men with sexual enhancement drugs and industrial alcohol.

According to Daily Mail, she escaped detection for years despite the many deaths because her husbands were generally elderly or in poor health. Thus, their deaths were mistakenly considered natural.

She admitted the crimes.

She is awaiting sentencing, Daily Mail reported, quoting her as saying, "I dont know how many I killed. Maybe it was 13 or 15 people. I dont remember exactly."

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The killings came to light when the son of her final husband, Gholamreza Babaei, grew suspicious, and learned that she had been accused of poisoning another man, Daily Mail reported, adding that one of her early marriages was abusive.

The accused serial killer befriended the daughters of "lonely older men" to find her targets, and smothered some of them with pillows and towels, in addition to using poison, according to Daily Mail. Many of the men died shortly after marrying her.

Four of the families are asking a court to order her execution, as the case unfolds in an Iranian courtroom, Iran Wire reported. She is 56-years-old.

Related: Disturbing New Details Emerge in Bryan Kohberger's Gruesome Crimes as He Receives Life Sentence

Female Serial Killer Murdered 11 Husbands, Served Tainted Soup, Prosecutors Say first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
TAIYUAN, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- On a sun-baked training ground in north China's Shanxi Province, the whirs of motors and propellers drown out the cicadas. Li Bo, 21, thumbs a remote control and guides a mid-size drone through a perfect horizontal figure-eight route. Just 12 months ago, he was racing take-out orders through busy traffic on an electric scooter in Yongji City, Shanxi. But today, the young man is rehearsing for a future office in the sky. "Flying a drone isn't just a skill, but a whole new lane in the job market," Li said. Among the seven trainees in his cohort are food delivery personnel, couriers, middle school students and university graduates. "The market response has been much better than we expected," said Hu Bingkai, head of Yongji's Zhiyu Drone Technology Co., Ltd., which trains drone operators. Since July, the startup has received over 100 inquiries from people aged 15 to 50. Drone academies across the country, from Hangzhou in east China's Zhejiang Province to the southern metropolis of Shenzhen and northwest China's Xi'an, have reported waiting lists during this year's summer vacation, reminiscent of the early days of the private-car licensing boom. Behind the roaring drone training industry is the sector's rapid development, as well as dual policy and market drivers. January 2024 saw interim regulations on the management of unmanned aircraft operations come into effect, stipulating that commercial flights, with the exception of micro-drone flights, must be conducted by licensed operators. This has since created a rigid demand for certification, with licenses issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) becoming the industry standard. Since mid-April this year, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality has been hosting drone light shows every Saturday night in its downtown area, where the Yangtze and Jialing rivers converge. The spectacle has quickly become a hallmark of Chongqing, injecting fresh vitality into the city's tourism industry. Each performance lasts just 20 minutes, but the consumer activity it sparks continues throughout the night, according to the drone show's director. Data indicates that since these regular performances began, the show has triggered consumption of over 350 million yuan (about 49.03 million U.S. dollars). In May, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security revealed the intention to recognize 17 new occupations, including drone-swarm flight planner and fire-rescue drone operator. The jobs involving drones extend from performance planning to urban governance, logistics, emergency response, tourism and agricultural protection. Other related professions, include drone training instructor, drone logistics scheduler, agricultural drone operator and forest-fire-prevention drone inspector, have also emerged. In the logistics and food delivery industries, companies like Meituan, JD.com and SF Express have launched drone delivery routes in large cities such as Shenzhen, Beijing and Shanghai. Drone pilot positions have become high-paying and highly sought-after. Zhang Yichen, a Gen-Z member of the Runtian Agricultural Machinery Cooperative in Xiaxian County, Shanxi, has seen his drone field patrol services expand to over 6,600 hectares. Data shows that by the end of 2024, China had over 20,000 drone operations companies with a combined annual output value of approximately 210 billion yuan, up 39.5 percent year on year. China's 2024 government work report included the concept of a "low-altitude economy" for the first time. The term covers drone delivery, aerial sightseeing and other industries operating below a height of 1,000 meters above ground. Since the report was released, the country's low-altitude economy has experienced rapid expansion, with CAAC forecasts estimating its market scale will hit 1.5 trillion yuan by 2025 and 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035.
The death of a one-month-old girl in The Gambia, reportedly after undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM), has ignited national outrage and calls for stronger enforcement of the countrys anti-FGM laws.

The infant, from Kombo North District, was rushed to a Banjul hospital after severe bleeding but was declared dead on arrival. While the cause of death is yet to be confirmed by autopsy, manyincluding advocacy group Women In Leadership and Liberation (WILL)have condemned the act as a clear form of violence. Two women have been arrested in connection with the case.

FGM has been banned in The Gambia since 2015, with penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment if a victim dies, yet enforcement has been weak, with only two prosecutions and one conviction since the laws enactment. Campaigners, including WILL founder Fatou Baldeh, have expressed concern over a rise in the cutting of babies, citing parents belief that younger victims heal faster and that the practice is easier to conceal. Despite the ban, The Gambia has one of the worlds highest FGM rates, affecting 73% of women and girls aged 1549, many before the age of six.

The case has revived debate in the country, where a vocal lobby continues to push for decriminalisation despite parliament rejecting such efforts last year. Advocates and lawmakers, including Kombo North MP Abdoulie Ceesay, are urging the tragedy to serve as a turning point in protecting children from harmful traditions. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle between entrenched cultural practices and human rights protections in the West African nation.
Democratic congresswomen, including several military veterans, are demanding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth apologize and resign after reposting a video about a Christian nationalist church with pastors who advocate for the repeal of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote, and feel women should not serve in certain combat and leadership positions.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), an Army helicopter pilot who lost both of her legs during combat in Iraq, told Military Times, these views are antiquated, flat out wrong and  more dangerously  designed to justify discrimination and mistreatment of women, including those who sacrifice in uniform to defend Americans.

He is the least qualified secretary of defense in our nations history  despite commanding tens of thousands of women who actually are qualified and earned their jobs, unlike him," she added. Hegseths incompetence and outright idiocy continue to put our troops and national security at greater risk every day he remains in office, and he should resign in disgrace immediately.

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In the CNN video, the pastors also said they want the United States to be a Christian republic. They call for the criminalization of homosexuality and expect women to submit to their husbands.

Women are the kind of people that people come out of  it doesnt take any talent to simply reproduce biologically, Pastor Doug Wilson says in the video.

Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Penn.), an Air Force veteran who has called for Hegseths resignation before, told Military Times that Hegseths recent post promoting a Christian Nationalist theology that is opposed to womens suffrage and calls for homosexuality to be criminalized is unacceptable political-religious advocacy for a cabinet member.

Sadly it is just one more example of the many ways he and the Trump administration are undermining and sidelining women and the LGBTQ community, erasing their accomplishments and stripping rights that were hard-fought and fully deserved, she added.

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Hegseths sharing of the video on X was accompanied by his comment, All of Christ for All of Life. Wilson told the Associated Press in an interview on Tuesday that the phrase is the churchs tagline used to end services.

So, he was reposting it and saying Amen at some level, Wilson told the AP.

Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), a former intelligence officer in the Navy Reserves, called Hegseth unfit to serve in any position of public trust in a comment to Military Times following his posting of the video. She too felt that he should be removed immediately.

Military Times reached out to Republican female military veterans in Congress for comment but did not receive a response as of this publication.

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Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) ultimately confirmed Hegseths nomination as defense secretary after pushing him during his confirmation hearing in January to say that he would allow women who meet the standards to continue serving in combat.

Women will have access to ground combat roles given the standards remain high, he replied.

Hegseth questioned the role of women in combat positions prior to his confirmation, all of which were opened to women by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter in 2016.

Since then, women have earned positions as Army Rangers, Green Berets and Navy combat-craft crewman after completing the same grueling tests as men.

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Im straight up saying we should not have women in combat roles, Hegseth told podcaster Shawn Ryan prior to his nomination last year. It hasnt made us more lethal. [It] has made fighting more complicated.

Hegseth, a graduate of Princeton and Harvard, authored the book The War on Warriors, which blamed the militarys diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, programs for the militarys problems, especially in recruiting.

There just arent enough lesbians from San Francisco who want to join the 82nd Airborne, he wrote. Not only do the lesbians not join, but those very same ads turn off the young, patriotic, Christian men who have traditionally filled our ranks.

The Democratic Womens Caucus has also denounced Hegseths reposting of the CNN story on Christian nationalist pastors, with Chair Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM) accusing Hegseth of using his platform as defense secretary to roll back a century of progress for women.

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Women earned the rote to vote through the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which was ratified in 1920.

Suffragists led by Lucy Burns and Alice Paul were imprisoned in 1917 for peaceful demonstrations outside the White House and endured abuse and forced feedings from the guards before their release.

President Woodrow Wilson announced his support for a constitutional amendment during his State of the Union address a couple of months later.

Secretary Hegseth, you oversee courageous women who serve, lead troops and lay down their lives for this country. Its absolutely shameful to suggest they dont deserve their right to vote and are only valuable if they have a child, Legar Fernandez said.

Secretary Hegseth, we wont go back, but you should go packing. We demand you denounce this message and affirm your commitment to upholding the 19th Amendment  a critical piece of the Constitution you swore an oath to defend.
YORK COUNTY, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Holly Alsobrooks finally got a chance to speak to the person she believes took her sons life through fentanyl poisoning.

I know for a fact, the hundreds of thousands of pills Jerry put into our community one of those pills reached my son, Alsobrooks said in a York County court hearing Friday morning.

She started the group Fentanyl Kills U with others who lost loved ones to the dangerous drug. Now the group is attending court hearings for the sentencing of convicted dealers.

We will keep showing up in these courtrooms. You will see these blue shirts coming back in these courtrooms. And we will not let our children be forgotten, she said.

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The group lobbied for five years to get South Carolina lawmakers to pass a trafficking law. Its now a felony to possess more than four grams of any fentanyl or related substance. Convictions could send traffickers to prison for up to 40 years.

For every one of those thats in there and is in jail, at least hes not out here peddling this poison on our streets and killing your children. So were out here not for us not to say anything about our children. Its to protect all the other children out here, Alsobrooks said.

This month, Jerry Holmes pleaded guilty to five counts of fentanyl trafficking, receiving a 15-year sentence.

Police say they caught him selling nearly 700 pills weighing almost 50 grams. Court records say Holmes sold hundreds of pills to a confidential informant.

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Holmes admitted to his crimes, but he says hes not a killer.

I take full responsibility for my actions. I understand I hurt a lot of people, but I didnt kill anyone, man, Holmes said to the judge.

The U.S. sentencing commission says South Carolina had 644 guilty fentanyl trafficking pleas in 2023. There were fewer than 3,100trafficking arrests nationally in 2023. That number increased to more than 3,600 last year.

This is dangerous, this is Russian roulette with your life, youre either going to die or youre going to be addicted. Theres not many people that are in between. Our main goal is to be out in the community talking about it, Alsobrooks said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
FERGUSON, Mo.  A 22-year-old Imos employee has been charged after allegedly stabbing a man Tuesday night at the Ferguson restaurant after the victim asked for food.

According to court documents, Jakob McKeage told the victim there was no food and additionally told the victim to get a job.

Following the conversation, the victim went to the back of the restaurant near the dumpster, and McKeage allegedly followed after arming himself with a kitchen knife to take the trash out.

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I actually still have goosebumps: Family of 3-year-old who died at daycare reacts to charges

The victim again asked for food and a drink when McKeage lunged at the victim and stabbed him with the kitchen knife. When the victim ran, McKeage followed and stabbed him again in his lower torso.

As the victim continued to flee, a witness saw him and called police. The victim was taken to Barnes Jewish Hospital and was treated for the wound and loss of blood.

After the stabbing, McKeage allegedly went back to the restaurants kitchen, washed the knife, and returned it to the knife block before confessing to police.

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McKeage has been charged with one count of first-degree assault, armed criminal action, and tampering with physical evidence. McKeage is in custody on a $100,000 cash-only 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 FOX 2.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner strongly criticized President Donald Trump over his crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., arguing that the president is not acting in the interest of public safety with his federal takeover.

Trump took unprecedented steps on Monday in announcing that he is taking over the D.C. police department and deploying the National Guard, framing his decision on the need to restore order, despite city leaders pointing to data showing that crime levels are down. Fox News Digital reported on Wednesday that D.C. law enforcement officials have arrested more than 100 people since Aug. 7.

During an appearance on CNNs The Source, Krasner late Tuesday railed against Trump, calling his recent moves a silly argument.

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"His silly distraction, from the fact that he doesnt want to give up information on his own involvement in a pedophile ring. Did we all forget about that?" Krasner said, appearing to reference Trumps past association with late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein amid calls to release files related to his investigation.

Krasner claimed that the country may have its lowest year of crime on record, while the president is claiming a public safety emergency.

Donald Trump is the public safety emergency. Its him. And we all need to stand up to that, or we are going to lose our country, Krasner said.

Krasner: So let's not get lost in his silly argument. His silly distraction from the fact that he doesn't want to give up information on his own involvement in a pedophile ring. Did we all forget about that? pic.twitter.com/MU6o2BUcP0  Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025

When asked by host Kaitlan Collins to respond to potential concerns about crime in his own city, Krasner said that most of the levels are down, which includes homicides and total violent crimes.

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There is no emergency here, except Donald Trump, OK? Krasner said, adding Youre not a 34-time felon, Kaitlan, Im not a 34-time felon.

The person directing this, claiming hes in favor of public safety, is a 34-time felon. And if he went to court for his other crimes, wed be looking at more felonies than that, he continued.

Krasner went on to say that Trump doesnt like public safety, but instead likes public disorder that gives him an excuse to roll tanks.

Thats what he wants, he said. Thats what dictators want.

Krasner: There is no emergency here except Donald Trump okay. You're not a 34 time felon, I'm not a 34 time felon. The person directing this, claiming he's in favor of public safety, is a 34 time felon. And if he went to court for his other crimes, we'd be looking at more pic.twitter.com/QJzWrIWRMD  Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025

Several outlets reported Tuesday that National Guard troops had begun appearing on the streets of the nations capital. Trump had activated approximately 800 Guard members and 500 federal agents to address what he described as out of control crime in the nations capital. Muriel Bowser, Washingtons Democratic mayor, rebuked the move as an authoritarian push on Tuesday night.

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In early January, federal officials reported that total violent crime in Washington for 2024 had reached a 30-year low. Since then, data released by the Metropolitan Police Department shows that the rate has plummeted by 26%.

During remarks to reporters on Monday, Trump also suggested that other U.S. cities could be targeted next, including New York City, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago.

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It's been two months since scenes of hate and violence erupted on the streets of Ballymena, County Antrim  and the after effects are still evident weeks later.

Many homes remain boarded up on Clonavon Terrace, which bore the brunt of rioting described by the police as "racist thuggery".

The target of much of the aggression was the town's Roma (Gypsy) community and other foreign nationals. Some who fled say they are not coming back.

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"Locals live here" posters, which first appeared by residents trying to protect their homes from being attacked, are still affixed to front windows on Queen Street.

For some, the eight weeks since the rioting has seen a change in Ballymena  North Antrim MP Jim Allister said there had been "an exodus of largely Roma and some other eastern Europeans".

"It has transformed the feel in the area. There's no longer people standing around our street corners here," he told The State of Us podcast.

However, for others, they're still protesting, albeit peacefully.

The organisers write online that their aim is to protect women and girls in the community from "Roma gangs".

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We tried to speak to people at a gathering last week to hear more about their concerns but were asked to leave.

There is also still fear among the communities targeted by the violence, with BBC News NI finding that people from or close to ethnic communities affected largely do not want to speak out.

It is understood that up to 60% of Roma people in Ballymena left during the riots, some to other parts of Northern Ireland and others returning to home countries such as Bulgaria and Romania.

It's not yet clear how many will return.

How the riots reverberated in Ballymena

Gary Lamont, a resident in the Clonavon Terrace area [BBC]

Gary Lamont, who is from the area where the riots erupted, understands why people took to the streets and also why people would describe them as racist - but, in his view, this "doesn't reflect the problem".

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"There was so much immigration into this area literally overnight in a way that the area just could not cope."

He said people felt their voices were not being heard by local agencies and politicians, with meetings and engagement "fizzling out".

As far back as 2018, there has been reports of tension in Ballymena over the influx of Roma people.

The spark that lit the fuse in June came after a protest over an alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl. Two 14-year-old boys, who spoke in court through a Romanian interpreter, deny charges of attempted rape.

The peaceful protest was held in support of the girl and her family, but crowds poured onto the streets and disorder broke out over several nights, spreading to other towns such as Larne and Portadown.

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After almost a week of rioting, more than 60 PSNI officers were injured and 53 people, aged between 12 and 56 were arrested  46 have been charged.

Jim Allister, the MP for North Antrim [BBC]

Jim Allister, the town's MP, told hosts of The State of Us podcast Tara Mills and Declan Harvey that while the violence was wrong, it had transformed the area.

"Historically this was a very settled part of town. It changed in recent years."

Available data shows a mixed picture.

Northern Ireland was described as the "least diverse" part of the UK, according to research published by the Northern Ireland Assembly earlier this year. Based on international migration, only 3.4% - or 65,600  of Northern Ireland's population are from a minority ethnic group.

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Census figures from 2021 show that population density in the area around Clonavon Terrace was approximately 51 times the Northern Ireland average, and four times the average for Ballymena as a whole.

It also recorded that 14% of people living in the wider area around Clonavon Terrace were Roma.

The changing demographics led to issues with integration and language barriers, as well as suspected criminality by some, said Mr Lamont.

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Simona Lazar, chief executive of UK-wide Roma-led charity Union Romani Voice, has said while some within the Roma community commit crimes - much like in all communities - it is for the police to deal with those issues.

She has called for more to be done to protect members of the Roma community in Northern Ireland.

One Roma community member in County Armagh, who reported being threatened by a man wielding a knuckle-duster, told BBC News NI he and others were living in fear.

Housing and deprivation driving 'frustrations'

According to Allister, HMOs (houses of multiple occupation), in which large numbers of people share a home, are a major factor behind the increase in the Roma population.

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The MP said they had become a "big problem in the area" and were "largely unregulated".

"There are ways of ducking and diving through the rules," he said.

"The further you get from Belfast, HMOs seem to be largely uncontrolled."

The Register of Houses in Multiple Occupation across Northern Ireland is managed centrally by Belfast City Council - it told BBC News NI it was "not aware of any unlicensed HMOs in Ballymena".

"Any concerns regarding unlicensed HMO usage in any location in NI are investigated by the NIHMO (Northern Ireland Houses of Multiple Occupation Unit)," it added.

Demi Laverty, a Ballymena-based community worker [BBC]

Others have pointed to a lack of political leadership, deprivation and housing issues for the underlying tensions.

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Demi Laverty, a community worker in the town, said "political negligence" and a lack of public services has led to "socioeconomic deprivation".

"People have been left with no other option but to blame something that they've been made to feel fearful of," she added.

Ms Laverty said the violence and anger was an outlet for some people's frustrations but "wasn't an adequate representation of the majority" of people in the town.

Some have criticised the ongoing protests' purported aim to protect women and children.

Elaine Crory, from the Women's Resource and Development Agency, said women and children were among those harmed during the riots.

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She said people should look at individual perpetrators of violence rather than "whole groups of people".

Peaceful protests are still happening regularly in parts of Ballymena [BBC]

"If there's a problem with intimidation in the area, it's not connected to the racial background of the person who's allegedly doing it."

Ms Crory said of the 28 women murdered in Northern Ireland in the last five years "if there were no immigrants in this country, that number would be 27".

She said there were greater resources than ever before to address violence against women and girls now.

"When somebody says they're protecting women and girls... make sure their motivations are as pure as they say they are, and if they really are that pure, there are things that you can do."

Elaine Crory, from the Women's Resource and Development Agency [BBC]

It's clear that Ballymena will be feeling the aftermath of June's violence for some time to come.

"There are many, many victims in all of this," said Gary Lamont.

"Most of all those who have been put out of their homes, the police, those injured officers, the landlords, all of that.

"But there's also those young people's lives. They are going to be particularly heavily punished going by what we hear."

For Demi Laverty, the violence should be a wake-up call.

"If young men and people from our country have been made to feel so disillusioned in regards to political representation and feeling like their voices haven't been adequately represented... that fear and that anger's gonna spill into other things."
Florida A&M University welcomed its new president Marva Johnson's first day Aug. 1 on all its social media pages, but responses were promptly silenced.

Soon after the historically Black university posted a 5-minute video message from the new leader on its Facebook and Instagram pages, comments flooded in, many with scathing remarks from critics.

But those comments were limited or now are gone, wiped from the internet by the school.

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To be sure, Johnson has been a lightning rod for criticism, seen by many in the FAMU community as a political ally put in place by Gov. Ron DeSantis as part of his program to take control of and remake the state's public higher education system under a conservative vision.

The social media moves raise the question: Were the First Amendment rights of commenters violated? Finding an answer could be complicated, however, since public educational institutions are often treated differently than government agencies and officials.

The Tallahassee Democrat, a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK  Florida, previously reported that about 300 comments on the Instagram post vanished, and users as of Aug. 12 still cannot comment on the post. It shows a photo of Johnson, with a caption encouraging users to watch her video message on YouTube, where comments are also turned off.

Responses were also limited on the Facebook video, and the university commented: "Thank you for your feedback. Additional comments can be sent to FAMUFeedback@famu.edu." Days later, though, users could comment again.

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Her presidential Facebook page also turned off comments on a video of her arriving on campus.

The USA TODAY NETWORK  Florida emailed FAMU twice for comment and spoke on the phone with a spokesperson. When the reporter mentioned President Marva Johnson's video on social media, the spokesperson interrupted and said she had to get off the phone for a meeting, and asked the reporter to email her. The university did not respond to the follow-up email.

Day 1: 'Let's get to work': FAMU President Marva Johnson vows to listen in inaugural remarks

Higher education and the First Amendment

The Supreme Court has held that restricting a constituent's ability to interact on a forum based on the constituent's views is unconstitutional viewpoint discrimination and is prohibited, said Haley Gluhanich, senior program counsel for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.

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When asked whether FIRE knew of other universities with similar situations, Gluhanich said the organization does not track these cases.

"When public universities and their administrators create forums for open discussion, the First Amendment restrains regulation of speech within that forum, including by blocking users and deleting comments," Gluhanich said.

Because of its relative newness, how social media intertwines with the First Amendment is a work in progress. The First Amendment Coalition said on its website that it doesn't apply to private people or in a public official's private capacity, so it matters whether a social media account displays official actions by a public institution or figure.

The attorney and former corporate lobbyist was a former board of education chair under Gov. Rick Scott and a member of DeSantis' transition team.

Online forums and the First Amendment

Deleting or limiting comments isn't the only issue in the social media realm of the First Amendment. It also involves being blocked by a public figure.

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South Florida provocateur Chaz Stevens sued state Rep. Chip LaMarca, R-Lighthouse Point, in April 2024 for blocking him on the X platform, saying LaMarca was violating his First Amendment rights.

A plaintiff in a similar case from 2021 dropped a lawsuit against then-Rep. Chuck Clemons, R-Gainesville, after Clemons blocked him after asking the lawmaker to explain a 2018 vote.

The Freedom Forum wrote in late June that being blocked on social media "affects your use of the freedoms of speech and petition."

Yet for the First Amendment to apply, a person must be blocked from an official government account. It's unclear whether it applies when an account is run by a elected official as opposed to a government agency.

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On Aug. 1, the University of Wisconsin-Madison lost in federal appeals court after a former student sued in 2021, accusing the public university of violating First Amendment rights by removing Facebook and Instagram comments that criticized the university's animal research.

The university restricted her account by preventing any of her comments from appearing publicly. The appellate judges found that the university's social media accounts were "limited public forums," meaning that the university could maintain relevant topics in the discussion but couldn't restrict viewpoints.

This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. USA Today Network-Florida First Amendment reporter Stephany Matat is based in Tallahassee, Fla. She can be reached at SMatat@gannett.com. On X: @stephanymatat.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Free speech concerns as FAMU limits social media feedback over Johnson
Author and professor Randall Balmer joins Morning Joe to discuss his new book 'Americas Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State'.
Florida bears are attracted to unsecured garbage. (Photo via FWC)

Bear hunts in Florida will resume following a unanimous vote Wednesday by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Following a preliminary approval in May, commissioners took final action during a meeting in Havana, in Gadsden County, Wednesday that was heavily attended by opponents and hunters hopeful for a hunt.

The first hunt will be 23 days long during December, making it the first since 2015.

The commission aims to manage the bear population through a conservative, well-regulated bear hunt, according to a summary on the days agenda.

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Regulations include designated bear hunting zones, permits given through a lottery system, and a cap on permits issued by the executive director of the commission. The new rules allow hunters to shoot bears at feeding stations and in 2027 will allow the use of dogs in bear hunting.

The prospect of a hunt drew widespread public comment, the state reporting more than 10,000 responses. During the meeting Wednesday, hundreds showed up.

Critics have called it a trophy hunt and cruel to the animals, particularly mother bears, while advocates for the hunt said it would reduce human interactions with the animals, making communities safer.

Permits for Florida residents, if selected, would be $100, and $300 for nonresidents. The state is limiting out-of-state permits to 10% of the total granted.

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The bear population in Florida is estimated at around 4,050  but the agency came up with that estimate as long ago as 2015, the last time a bear hunt took place.

That hunt ended abruptly after only two days after nearly 300 bears were killed.

In a FWC-conducted survey, 75% of more than 13,000 self-selected participants opposed the proposal, with just 23% in support. A Remington Research survey commissioned by the Humane World for Animals showed that 81% of Florida residents oppose the reopening of bear-hunting season.

Of the 40 states with black bear populations, 34 have regulated bear hunting seasons, according to the FWC.

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Thousands of college students are arriving at Appalachian State University this week.

The enrollment at the university, which includes the Hickory campus, is more than 21,000 students.

Thousands of NC students guaranteed college admission through NC College Connect

Channel 9s Dave Faherty found out Wednesday that nearly a third of them are first generation college students.

Lilian Briand was moving into a dorm with help from her mother.

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Briand wants to become a nurse. She and her brother, who already graduated, are first-generation college students.

He was our first to graduate from college, said Kendra Birch, their mother. I dont have a college degree, so I definitely wanted more from them.

Just being diverse and being close to home, Briand said. I love being close to home.

Clyde McNeelys daughter is also a first-generation college student. He lives in Cleveland County, but he grew up in Morganton in poverty and couldnt attend college.

Four-year university, McNeely said. Honestly, shes worked her butt off to get here, and Im extremely proud of her. A father couldnt be happier.

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App State said it has partnerships with 30 community colleges to help students with associate degrees complete their bachelors degree. The university is also among the top 5 in the UNC System for graduating students in four years.

Xavier Dawkins is getting help from his family on move-in day and is proud to be a Mountaineer.

Im really excited and its super affordable, Dawkins said. Very veteran friendly. My dad is a veteran. He was in the Air Force, and they really look out for the kids of veterans.

Classes start on Monday.

VIDEO: Back-to-school: Paying for college with scholarships
(NewsNation)  The first hearing in the wrongful death lawsuit involving a former University of Missouri student who went missing on March 8, 2024, and was found dead two weeks later, was held Tuesday.

Riley Strain, 22, was in Nashville for a fraternity event with his Delta Chi fraternity brothers on March 8 when he went missing after he was asked to leave Luke Bryans bar, Luke 32 Bridge.

Strains body was discovered in the Cumberland River on March 22.

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Riley Strain timeline: Search and discovery of missing Mizzou student

During their investigation, Nashville police spoke with members of Strains fraternity, which traveled by bus from the University of Missouri to Nashville. Strains fraternity brothers told investigators that the bus had a strictly enforced policy of alcohol not being allowed on the bus.

But students added that drinking was taking place on the bus and that Strain had at least five drinks, including two vodka shots and three beers, the report indicated.

The wrongful death lawsuit was filed in Boone County, Missouri, on March 21 by Strains parents and step-parents, totaling four plaintiffs.

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Get fact-based, unbiased news coverage 24/7 with the NewsNation app. Download it here.

The lawsuit, according to reporting from KOMU-TV, lists 22 defendants. The lawsuit alleged six counts, including vicarious liability against Delta Chi fraternity.

Judge Joshua Devine has not given a date for an expected ruling in 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 NewsNation.
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed on Monday, August 11, that more than 400 terrorists were killed during a major joint air and ground offensive in Zamfara States Makakkari Forest on Sunday.

The assault, codenamed Operation Fasan Yamma, was launched following credible intelligence and involved precision airstrikes coupled with coordinated ground attacks. According to Air Force spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame, the operation eliminated several notorious kingpins along with large numbers of their fighters.

Banditry remains a persistent security crisis in Nigerias northwest and north-central regions, with armed groups carrying out deadly raids, mass kidnappings, and large-scale looting. President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administrations uncompromising position on the issue, warning bandits and terrorists to surrender or face decisive military action.
The Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories denied all the claims made in the report, saying that Israel allows and facilitates the entry of aid while Hamas exploits it.

The governments new requirements for international aid organizations have severely hampered their efforts to get resources into Gaza, and several Israeli international aid groups have appealed to the government to facilitate aid shipments on Monday.

This marks the first time Israeli emergency relief groups made such an appeal, which the Gaza Humanitarian Forum launched. This umbrella organization includes IsraAid, EcoPeace Middle East, SID-Israel, NATAN, the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, and the Mitvim think tank.

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The organization encompasses a team of experts and Israeli civil society groups that coalesce essential and comprehensive information on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and propose short- and long-term solutions.

The Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) denied all the claims made in the report.

COGAT is the Defense Ministrys military unit responsible for civilian affairs in Gaza and the West Bank.

Israel acts to allow and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, while the terrorist organization Hamas seeks to exploit the aid to strengthen its military capabilities and consolidate its control over the population, COGAT said.

Palestinians walk to collect aid supplies from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, May 29, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled)

This is sometimes done under the cover of certain international aid organizations, whether knowingly or unknowingly, it continued.

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In turn, the Gaza Humanitarian Forum said, In order to ensure effective, productive cooperation between the security forces and the humanitarian organizations, alternate protocols must be instituted to meet the humanitarian needs without compromising security.

It suggested a new framework of a declarative commitment and approval for recognized international groups, shortening the request times to 72 hours for the organization to be cleared as legitimate, and improving digital services.

Up until the war, operational registration for international humanitarian organizations in order to issue visas and manage logistical and technical affairs was done through the Welfare and Social Affairs Ministry.

The forum noted that for years, the ministry has avoided registering international organizations  as opposed to Israeli ones  due to a lack of familiarity with the global arena, and in a demand that the matter be resolved in other ways.

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It added that this challenged efforts by COGAT to secure fresh international groups, allies of Israel, who could help get more aid into Gaza.

The issue was solved by a government decision from December 2024 that organized the registration process. Then, this past March, the government publicized a ministerial circular, a document of instructions and policy.

It dictated new directives, headed by Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Minister Amichai Chikli, which carried across several ministries. The new directives included the requirement to register even those organizations that already receive operational approval.

To make this less cumbersome, the forum said, the ministerial circular grants a grace period of six months, terminating on September 9, during which some relaxation of restrictions is allowed.

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COGAT said that the defense establishment created a new mechanism for aid entry designed to ensure that aid reaches the population directly and not Hamas.

It added that organizations must now undergo a formal registration with the Diaspora Affairs Ministry, which includes submitting a list of the organizations employees operating in Gaza for prior security screening.

Moreover, The registration process is based on clear professional and security criteria intended to safeguard the integrity of the humanitarian system while preventing the infiltration of terrorist elements into the aid mechanism. This is a transparent and clear process that was presented to all organizations in advance, COGAT said.

The Gaza Humanitarian Forum found that in July, aid from over 29 organizations was denied entry, based on the claim that they did not have comprehensive approval.

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As of Monday, 20 organizations had submitted a request for registration and were awaiting approval by Israel.

Per COGAT, in July, 74,452 tons of aid transported in 3,827 trucks entered the enclave through land crossings.

Remarking on the forums data, COGAT said, The refusal of some international organizations to provide the information and cooperate with the registration process raises serious concerns about their true intentions and the possibility of ties between the organization or its employees and Hamas.

It added that around 20 international organizations that complied with the updated regulations and completed the new registration process are operating regularly.

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The governments changes specifically concern registration, whereby the organization is required to provide information that the groups describe as personal and sensitive about staff members.

Organizations warned of a fierce hit to the ability to provide aid to Palestinians in the war-torn enclave.

The need for aid in Gaza

The Israel-Hamas War, which was triggered by Hamass cross-border massacre attack on October 7, has destroyed much of the livable space in Gaza.

International pressure rained down on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the government over the last few weeks as footage and photos of starvation in Gaza emerged.

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Israel has since increased the aid that makes its way into the enclave via land crossings, as well as pallets that are airdropped in cooperation with several other states.

According to the forum, the new directives contradict international ethical standards on humanitarian aid, are not legally, morally, or operationally sound, and can harm the aid efforts.

The past few months showed that aid efforts cannot rely solely on the American-sponsored Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and that more organizations have to be looped in, said the forum.

It added that although it welcomed the registration process, this should extend to groups that are not registered yet, as well as to those that had registered in the past.

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If this is not achieved, it went on to say, the damage will be twofold: Israels image will suffer, as its legitimacy in the international arena will be questioned, and the aid response efforts in the enclave will be undermined.

This is a primary Israeli interest, the forum said.

COGAT responded by saying that the alleged delay in aid entry, as claimed by the organizations who signed the statement, occurs only when organizations choose not to meet the basic security requirements intended to prevent Hamass involvement.

Instead of opposing the process and issuing public statements, we call on all international organizations wishing to bring aid into the Gaza Strip  especially those who signed the statement  to act with transparency, complete the registration forms, and ensure that the emergency relief reaches the residents  not Hamas.
Even the threat of rain couldnt stop the excitement of Wawas coming to Murfreesboro as the company held Aug. 12 its second of three groundbreakings in Middle Tennessee this week.

Wawa representatives celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony in Nashville several hours before traveling to Rutherford County.

Wawa held a special groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, that included samples of food and drink in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, for a Murfreesboro location.

By the evening of Aug. 12, the corner lot of Veterans Parkway in Murfreesboro was full of anticipation as Wawas mascot Wally Goose walked and danced amid a crowd of officials and supporters of the northeast-based convenience store, gas station and sandwich spot.

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Wawa representatives wore store T-shirts, while offering guests its famous hoagies, strawberry smoothies, pretzels and more.

Wawa officials announced that the location will be just one of three coming to Murfreesboro.

Wawa held a special groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, that included samples of food and drink in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, for a Murfreesboro location.

Wally Goose the Wawa mascot peeks round the newly unveiled Wawa coming soon sign in Murfreesboro during a Wawa groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.

Wawa fans Nicole Love, left, and Marni Bacci cheer on Wawa President Brian Schaller as he speaks about the new store during a Wawa groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.

Superfans standby

Among the crowd was Wawa super fan Lana Haug.

Haug and her husband moved to Murfreesboro from New Jersey about four years ago, and the construction of Wawa can't come fast enough, Haug says.

Hank Fisher, 11, tries a strawberry dragonfruit drink as Wawa employee Dan Hollada passes out samples during a Wawa groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.

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I went to Wawa about every day and ate lunch there four days a week, she said.

Megan Salvador, the Regional Real Estate Manager for Wawa in Tennessee, speaks during a Wawa groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, as Wally Goose the store mascot stands in the background.

With the store to be built just 20 minutes away, Haug is already planning to stop by and grab some of her favorites.

I just want to have a coffee and Sizzli every day for breakfast, she said. And during Thanksgiving, grab a Sweet Potato Bowl and the Gobbler.

For those who will be visiting for the first time once the doors open, Haug doesnt believe customers can go wrong with whatever they decide to order.

Why is their coffee so good? I dont know, but it is, she said. And there is something for everyone. My grandson loves their pretzels.

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Wawa president Brian Schaller welcomed Murfreesboro residents and Wawa super fans to the location of Murfreesboro's next pit stop.

It's great that some people know us, and we love that, Schaller said. Some people don't, and they're already excited, and we thank you.

Schaller said construction will begin soon, with the store expected to offer fresh quesadillas, burritos, the signature hoagie and its well-loved coffee.

Theres competition right there, Schaller said, referencing the McDonalds, Publix and the 7-Eleven gas station across the street. But one of our values is passion for winning, and the Eagles told us that."

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After Schaller, Rutherford County Commissioner Romel McMurry addressed the crowd with a cheer.

Everybody say Wawa, McMurry he said. We are so delighted to have you all here in this area. You all could have chosen anywhere else in the state, but you chose Murfreesboro.

Joe Collins, the Director of Store Operations for Wawa tries to introduce Ariam Sejour, 2, to Wally Goose the mascot for the Wawa store during a Wawa groundbreaking at 5208 Veterans Pkwy, in Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.

Economic impact

McMurry said he is delighted at the economic impact Wawas will bring to the city.

The project is expected to bring in $7.5 million, hiring 140 contractors, suppliers, engineers and more. Once open, the 24/7 location will employ about 35 people.

You're going to look back in five years, and you're going to see this is the best spot, McMurry said to Schaller and the other representatives. I know you said we're the 14th state, but we are the number one state in the U.S."

Dozens of locations expected in TN

While Murfreesboro, Nashville and Clarksville can look forward to visiting a Wawa soon, Wawa is just getting started as it makes its mark in Tennessee.

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Megan Salvador, the regional real estate representative for Wawa, announced there are currently 20 locations under contract, including two more in Murfreesboro, one on New Salem Highway, another on Bradyville Pike and one coming to Manchester.

Also, residents of Dickson, Robertson, Wilson and Cheatham County can look forward to a location there soon.

Our initial expansion plans for Tennessee include six new Wawa stores in 2026, Salvador said as the crowd began to cheer. And in 10 years, our goal is to have more than 50 in the state.

The first Wawa location in Murfreesboro is expected to open the second half of 2026.

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Kenya Anderson is a reporter for Leaf-Chronicle in Clarksville.

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Wawa broke ground in Murfreesboro on Aug. 12, the first of 3 to come
Bull trout (Photo by Pat Clayton, used with permission).

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is failing to enforce water rights on behalf of the public to the detriment of rivers and healthy aquatic life including wild trout  and contrary to its constitutional duty  alleges a new lawsuit.

Last week, Upper Missouri Waterkeeper, Alliance for the Wild Rockies and Save the Bull Trout filed a complaint in Lewis and Clark County District Court asking a judge to find the state is failing in its duty to enforce its water rights.

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The lawsuit asks the court to declare FWP is negligent in its duty to maintain and improve a clean and healthful environment as the state Constitution mandates by not asserting its water rights.

The complaint also asks the court to find FWPs new protocol for stream flows under the Gov. Greg Gianforte administration is unscientific and is being used unlawfully.

It also alleges the protocol for determining water flow, created outside the rulemaking process, hinders the agency from exercising its constitutional duty to protect aquatic life.

FWP declined to comment on the lawsuit, and the Governors Office said FWP would speak for the administration.

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FWP is reviewing the complaint, but seeing as this is active litigation, we do not have a comment at this time, said an FWP spokesperson.

However, Guy Alsentzer, executive director of the Upper Missouri Waterkeeper, said FWP doesnt have a choice when it comes to protecting the public trust  it has a constitutional duty.

Montanas rivers are incredibly stressed  from extreme drought, unchecked pollution, and declining fish populations  yet the very agency tasked with protecting healthy fish and wildlife is choosing politics over science, Alsentzer said in a statement. At the moment when our rivers and streams need water the most, Fish, Wildlife and Parks has refused to act.

Montana is experiencing its most extreme drought on record, and also its greatest demand, the lawsuit said. Citing the U.S. Drought Monitor, it said 82% of the state was experiencing drought conditions as of June.

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Water rights possessed by FWP are held in trust for the public, to protect aquatic life and recreation, and they can help mitigate harms to fish, the lawsuit said.

However, the lawsuit alleges FWP has been leaving those rights unused, harming fisheries and the public as a result.

While the states cold-water fisheries are the envy of the world, Montanas iconic trout

species are almost universally experiencing population-level declines, the lawsuit said.

It said the impacts could be costly; citing a scientific study, the lawsuit said cold-water sections of water generate $500,000 a year per kilometer, but cool-water sections generate just $60,000 by comparison, primarily due to the preference for cold-water by nonresident fishers.

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In 2021, a conservation specialist at FWP was getting ready to call in water rights on the Smith River and the Shields River, as the agency has done in the past, the lawsuit said.

But that year, the Governors Office intervened, wanting to know the names and types of water users that would be affected and asking for proof of how the call would provide benefit to the stream, the complaint said.

For a variety of reasons, an FWP manager explained in a July 1, 2021, memo that FWP couldnt definitively prove the benefit, given, for example, that some junior water rights users might not have been using water to begin with and would have nothing to add, the lawsuit said.

On July 7, 2021, Gov. Gianforte sent a letter to then-FWP Director Hank Worsech directing the agency to forgo a call for water on those rivers, the lawsuit said, quoting the correspondence.

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Following public outcry in 2021, FWP issued a new Water Right Call Protocol in 2022, but the protocol is problematic in a number of ways, the complaint said.

The protocol fails to examine how aquatic life or recreational uses are protected, the lawsuit said, and it wasnt created using the right procedures anyway, through rulemaking under the Montana Administrative Procedures Act.

In failing to assert its water rights, the complaint alleges FWP is harming the publics ability to fish, float, view and photograph scenery and wildlife, and engage in other vocational, scientific, spiritual and recreational activities which rely on healthy aquatic ecosystems.

It also said the framers of the Montana Constitution meant it to be proactive in its environmental protections, as the Montana Supreme Court has concluded in other cases.

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Our constitution does not require that dead fish float on the surface of our states rivers and streams before its farsighted environmental protections can be invoked, the lawsuit said, citing an earlier state Supreme Court opinion.

It also said the rights of the public and future generations under the Public Trust Doctrine predate the Montana Constitution, and the doctrine imbues the state with a fiduciary duty to protect and conserve common pool natural resources, particularly water, for public benefit.

Additionally, the lawsuit said Montana law roundly recognizes that the publics property rights in water can be lost if they are not exercised and protected.

The complaint also points to findings of fact about the effects of climate change that were not challenged on appeal in Held vs. Montana. In the historic youth climate case, the Lewis and Clark County District Court found, and Montana Supreme Court affirmed, the states failure to consider greenhouse gas emissions violates the constitutions protection of a clean and healthful environment.

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Anthropogenic climate change is disrupting the natural range of variation in the flow paths of Montanas river systems, the lawsuit said. Compared to the 1960s, the summer streamflow  in Montanas rivers has decreased by approximately 20% and stream temperatures have increased between 1-2 degrees C.

The current complaint requests the court find Montanans constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment include healthy rivers with minimum stream flows that sustain aquatic life and fish; that FWPs failure to assert its water rights violates its constitutional duty and breaches its obligation as a trustee of the public trust; and that FWPs new protocol is unlawful and should be vacated.

Waterkeeper versus FWP
Five Palestinians were killed and 10 others injured by Israeli fire while waiting for aid in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported on Wednesday.

The incident occurred south of Wadi Gaza in the central part of the embattled territory. The Israeli military said it was investigating the report.

Reports of deadly incidents near aid distribution points run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) have been recurring.

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The private foundation, which receives support from Israel and the United States, began operations in the sealed-off coastal territory in May after an almost three-month Israeli halt to humanitarian deliveries.

The latest violence comes amid the ongoing conflict that erupted after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed around 1,200 people and saw more than 250 taken hostage to Gaza.

Since then, the Hamas-controlled health authority in Gaza says more than 61,700 Palestinians have been killed, a figure that is difficult to independently verify and does not distinguish between civilians and fighters.

However international organizations such as the United Nations consider the figures to be largely credible.

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According to the health authority, more than 1,850 people have died attempting to collect aid. Civilians, often desperately hungry, frequently face dangerous conditions while trying to reach humanitarian supplies.

Palestinians inspect the scene of an Israeli airstrike on a journalists' tent near the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif, fellow journalist Mohammed Qreiqeh and three camera operators were killed in an Israeli airstrike that targeted a tent housing journalists in Gaza City, according to the Qatar-based broadcaster. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
PIERRE, S.D. (KELO)  The years-old claim that the Flaming Fountain well that helps feed Capitol Lake was in danger of collapse, and posed a threat to monuments celebrating South Dakotans who fought in past wars, turns out to have been false, according to a state government official.

Darin Seeley, the commissioner for the South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration, told the Legislatures Executive Board on Tuesday that a camera was able to get to the bottom of the well last fall.

The well is in very good condition, considering its  Im going to call it 100 years old, Seeley said. The situation is not the emergency wed been led to believe, he explained.

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The issue first came to widespread attention in 2019, when a lawmaker from Pierre, Republican Rep. Tim Rounds, was prime sponsor of successful legislation directing the bureau to contract for a study of why the Flaming Fountain wouldnt stay lit and allowed up to $200,000 to be raised from private sources to pay for it.

Three years later, the Legislature, at the bureaus request, appropriated $500,000 of state general funds and granted $3 million of federal funding authority in 2022 to do various activities at Capitol Lake, including plugging the Flaming Fountain well.

Seeley said the original accusation from a former BHR employee was the well was in dangerous condition. Seeley acknowledged that a camera was able to get part of the way down into the well on a previous attempt and the South Dakota School of Mines became active in the studying the issue.

Its been a number of years back. But new technology allowed for a better look. So the emergency we thought was there is not, Seeley said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
The Brief

The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for Catoosa and Walker counties in northwest Georgia, with rainfall close to four inches and an additional one to three inches possible.

Numerous roads were flooded, particularly in the Fort Oglethorpe area, with significant closures reported, including Georgia Highway 341 at Mission Ridge Road.

Travel delays were reported on Interstates 75 and 24 due to ongoing storms and flooding conditions.

FORT OGLETHORPE, Ga. - Widespread flash flooding was reported in Catoosa and Walker counties in northwest Georgia on Tuesday night. The flooding also closed a portion of Interstate 24 in Chattanooga, causing a massive traffic backup into Georgia.

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SEE ALSO: Storms, heavy rain, and flooding across metro Atlanta | The latest weather reports

Flash Flood Warning in NW Georgia

What we know

The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning through 12:45 p.m.

The FOX 5 Storm Team has been tracking rainfall, and said close to four inches had fallen by the time the flooding was reported.

Another one to three inches is possible in the warned area before Wednesday morning.

A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for Catoosa, Walker Counties until 8/13 12:45AM. pic.twitter.com/vBVQsosXZH  Alex Forbes (@AForbesWx) August 12, 2025

What they're saying

"Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly," the National Weather Service wrote in the warning issued around 6:50 p.m.

Catoosa, Walker roads flooded

Dig deeper

Numerous road delays were reported due to flooding.

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Numerous flooding calls came from the Fort Oglethorpe area, with more than a dozen roads being covered in water.

Flash flooding was also reported near Lakeview Drive and Greens Lake Road by the Catoosa County Sheriffs Office.

Additionally, the Georgia Department of Transportation reports that both directions of Georgia Highway 341 at Mission Ridge Road are closed.

I-75 NB is at a standstill due to I-24 in Chattanooga, Tennessee being closed due to flash flooding on Aug. 12, 2025. (Tennessee Department of Transportation)

I-24 shut down in Chattanooga

Why you should care

Flooding just north in Chattanooga, Tennessee, caused a portion of Interstate 24 to shut down, WTVC reports.

I-24 is closed between I-75 and US 27 in Hamilton County due to widespread flooding. Right now our priority is I-24; establishing traffic control, assisting stranded motorists, and clearing traffic thats trapped in the in the queue. pic.twitter.com/eXPVogYq5L  Rae Anne Bradley (@RaeAnneTDOT) August 13, 2025

That flooding shut down I-24 near East Ridge and was closed for several hours.

A look at I-24 East under Moore Rd. Do not attempt to drive through flooded lanes. They may contain hidden hazards and debris. pic.twitter.com/wCzoQ5NAss  Rae Anne Bradley (@RaeAnneTDOT) August 13, 2025

Traffic backed up along Interstate 75 about three miles across the Georgia line.

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I-75 feeds onto I-24 westbound in Chattanooga, but also continues on towards Knoxville.

Current conditions: 3+ feet of water on I-24 near McBrien Rd. @myTDOT has crews monitoring conditions and ready to deploy for the cleanup effort once the water recedes. pic.twitter.com/9kwJFb0R5s  Rae Anne Bradley (@RaeAnneTDOT) August 13, 2025

There was no backup along I-24 in Georgia.

Just before 10:30 p.m., officials gave the all clear and reopened the interstate.

One lane is open on I-24 in each direction to clear trapped traffic stuck inside the closure. I-24 will remain closed between US 27 and I-75 for the cleanup effort. pic.twitter.com/d9vItXsg2v  Rae Anne Bradley (@RaeAnneTDOT) August 13, 2025

What's next

Travel along Interstates 75 and 24 could be delayed due to the continuing storms.

This story is developing. Check back for details. If you have additional information, pictures, or video email newstipsatlanta@fox.com.

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The National Weather Service and the FOX 5 Storm Team provided the details of the Flash Flood Warning. The NWS and the Georgia Department of Transportation provided details about flooded roadways. The sheriff's offices for Catoosa and Walker counties also contributed to this report.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The El Paso area was slammed by flash flooding late Tuesday evening, Aug. 12, particularly hard hit was the Kern Place area near UTEP.

El Paso Fire is also reporting cars stranded by floodwater in West El Paso near Porfirio Diaz and the Eastside near Rojas.

No injuries have been reported.

El Paso Fire is reporting that multiple vehicles were stuck in water in the area around Mesa and Cincinnati and Mesa and McKelligon. A Fire Department spokesperson said that people had to get themselves out to their vehicles and do a self-rescue.

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The Fire Department is asking the Police Department to close down streets in those areas in the Kern Place area that were hit with floods.

The Fire Department also reported cars stalled in floodwaters on the Eastside near Rojas and the Westside near Porfirio Diaz.

Here is video of an apparent water rescue with what look like fire personnel helping somone out of their car. Video is courtesy of viewer Chris Amador.

Fire Department is also requesting that police close I-10 at Downtown on-ramp.

Potentially strong storms overnight in El Paso area Your 9-Day Forecast

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
It starts with a wound. For most animals, that means a scab, a scar, and eventual healing. For the New World screwworm, its an open invitation. This parasitic fly sees raw flesh as the perfect place to raise its young.

The screwworm has long been a menace to cattle and other livestock  and, on rare occasions, humans. But now, scientists have documented the flies attacking mountain tapirs, the shy, pig-like mammals with short trunks that had never before been considered at risk.

The discovery has researchers worried that the parasites reach  and its impact  could spread even further. We took a closer look at these insects that feel like fodder for a horror movie.

What are screwworms?

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly about the size of a common housefly, with a metallic blue or green body, orange eyes, and three dark stripes along its back. Its larvae have tapered bodies with rings of backward-facing spines, giving them a screw-like appearance.

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They target open wounds on mammals, particularly cattle and other livestock. But their menu may be expanding: Scientists recently reported in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases that the flies have been attacking mountain tapirs  a species not previously thought to be at risk.

The true nightmare begins when they reproduce. A single female fly can deposit hundreds of eggs in one wound, and when the screw-shaped larvae hatch, they twist and burrow into their host, consuming flesh from the inside out and leaving a potentially deadly lesion.

Are they a threat to humans?

While these flesh-eating parasites mostly target livestock and wildlife, they can  and do  infect people. Much like in animals, the female fly lays her eggs in a humans open wound or sore. When the larvae hatch, they burrow into living tissue, feeding from the inside out  a condition known as myiasis.

Human cases were reported (especially in rural areas) before the U.S. eradicated the parasite in the 20th century. Today, most infections occur in places where screwworms are still present  including Mexico, which recently confirmed its first human case.

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Experts warn that if the pest returns to the U.S., those most at risk would be people in close contact with livestock or living in areas with limited access to medical care. Dr. Megan Niederwerder, executive director of the Swine Health Information Center, warns that early detection is critical: Its really important to be looking for maggots in wounds or other body openings.

Why are screwworms making a comeback?

For the most part, screwworms have been absent from the U.S. since the 1970s, thanks to a government-funded eradication campaign. But for those who remember them, the memory is hard to forget. Nothings nastier than this maggot, Wyoming rancher Judy McCullough told The New York Times.

That decades-long absence may be coming to an end. After breaching a biological barrier in Panama in 2022, the parasite now threatens to spread north  not only into the U.S., but across Central America and southern Mexico. Its unclear what exactly sparked the resurgence, but a New York Times report points to a mix of factors: increased movement of cattle and people, shifting weather patterns, and the insects own adaptability.

If the screwworm returns, the impact could be far-reaching. The cattle industry is already dealing with high feed prices, drought, and consolidation. And because the parasite doesnt limit itself to beef, it could also infect other livestock, including wildlife like deer and rabbits, and even pets.

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Former eradication officials warn that workforce cuts and reduced agricultural research under the Trump administration could make fighting the parasite harder. More than 1,300 employees at the Agriculture Departments Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service took buyouts earlier this year, including 300 in veterinary services.

Texas  home to the largest cattle industry in the U.S.  isnt waiting for an outbreak to hit. Last week, the states Department of Agriculture announced it will deploy a synthetic bait called Swormlure, which can trap up to 90 percent of these flies on contact. The plan also includes a new feed additive for livestock and deer, and the development of a vaccine to kill screwworm larvae. When it comes to safeguarding Texas $15 billion cattle industry, we need to focus on action rather than words, Texas Agriculture commissioner Sid Miller said in a statement.

Whether its a mountain tapir in the Andes or a calf on a Texas ranch, the screwworm needs only a single wound to start its grisly work. After decades of absence, that threat is back on the horizon  and this time, scientists say, the stakes could be even higher.

The post This Flesh-Eating Fly Is Making a Comeback appeared first on Katie Couric Media.
FLORENCE, S.C. (WBTW)  A 44-year-old Florence man is facing a felony DUI charge in connection with a crash that killed a passenger in his vehicle in July, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

Jerryco Leon Quillin was charged with felony DUI resulting in death and four other traffic-related offenses. He was booked into the Florence County Detention Center on Monday, where he remains without bond on the DUI charge.

Quillins arrest stems from the July 11 crash that killed Oshunda Tomoko Quillin, 44, also of Florence. The highway patrol said the crash happened at the intersection of Firetower Road and Highway 76 East.

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A 2024 Toyota Minivan was traveling east on Highway 76, and the vehicle the Quillins were in, a 2014 Chevrolet Sedan, was traveling north on Firetower Road, attempting to cross Highway 76 when the crash happened, Master Trooper Mitchell Ridgeway said. The driver of the minivan was the only person in the vehicle and was not injured, while Jerryco Quillin was injured and hospitalized.

Oshunda Quillin died at a local hospital the day after the crash, according to the coroners office.

* * *

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.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Attorney General James Uthmeier said Wednesday that his office is reclassifying concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine products as a Schedule 1 drug in an effort toremove the product from stores in Florida.

Uthmeier, invoking his offices ability to create rules in the face of a true public health emergency, said at anews conferenceat Tampa General Hospital that the policy was effective immediately. The rule makes it illegal to sell, possess or distribute 7-hydroxymitragynine products, known as 7-OH.

Uthmeier did not clarify at theconference or in a statement afterward whether people could be prosecuted for possession of 7-OH products.

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Commonly found in gas stations and convenience stores, 7-OH products have heavily concentrated amounts of a compound found naturally in the kratom plant. These products, usually sold as pills, are up to 13 times more potent than morphine, said Cory Howard, the associate medical director of Florida Poison Control in Tampa.

Howard said Florida Poison Control received 191 calls in the last year related to 7-OH products, and calls increased by 14% in the last three months.

Uthmeiers move to get 7-OH products off shelves in Florida comes two weeks after federal health officials recommended a national ban.

Marty Makary, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, said 7-OH could start a fourth wave of the opioid epidemic. He said at the news conference that the federal government sent warnings to companies illegally distributing 7-OH products and stores selling them.

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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson saidduring the news conference that his agency would be responsible for enforcing the state ban on 7-OH products. He said his department had filed complaints against some of the more than 5,000 stores selling 7-OH products in Florida, but his agents hadnt been able to act until the rule went into effect today.

Simpson said he would dispatch agents to stores in the coming days to seize 7-OH products and issue warnings to sellers. If stores are caught selling 7-OH products again, he said, there will be other actions taken to enforce the states rules.

Uthmeier said 7-OH products in particular present a threat to the states public health because their packaging is often geared toward children, and they are sold in vape shops and gas stations near schools.

How are we going to beat our adversaries like China if our next generation is all drugged up on these products? he said. Its clearly something more potent than morphine that should not be sitting on a shelf next to a packet of Skittles.

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Because 7-hydroxymitragynine is a part of the natural kratom leaf, 7-OH products are only legally sold to those over 21.

Lawmakers weighed a ban on 7-OH earlier this year, but the proposal died amid industry lobbying.

Uthmeier said he hoped the Legislature would do a deep dive into 7-OH because it is responsible for finalizing drug restrictions.
Two Somali soldiers convicted of conspiring with the militant group Al Shabab to assassinate their battalion commander were executed by firing squad on Monday, August 11, military Court officials confirmed. The soldiers were sentenced to death in August 2025, after being found guilty of killing Commander Aided Mohamed Ali in July.

According to prosecutors, one soldier obtained the explosive device while the other planted it under the commanders bed, where it was later detonated remotely. Supreme Military Court chairman Liban Ali Yarrow warned that anyone proven to have links with terrorists would face the same fate, vowing decisive action against collaborators. The executions follow the killing of three Al Shabab members last week, also by firing squad, after they were found guilty of multiple murders in Mogadishu. The sentences reflect the Somali governments continued hard-line stance against insurgents and those aiding them.
Those little bottles sold in front of gas station cash registers? If they contain kratom, they're now illegal in Florida.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced an emergency rule that puts 7-OH (7-Hydroxymitragynine) on the state's schedule 1 list of drugs that have "a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use." He made the announcement Aug. 13 at Tampa General Hospital.

Kratom, made from Southeast Asian tree leaves, is marketed as a natural remedy for pain and anxiety. 7-OH, however, is a concentrated kratom byproduct that can come in the form of pills, gummies, drink mixes and shots. (Reversal agents like naloxone do work on 7-OH and are recommended to use during an overdose.)

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It's now in the same category of drugs like meth, fentanyl and bath salts (known as cathinones), making it illegal to sell, possess or distribute 7-OH in the state. The order is effective immediately; Uthmeier said enforcement could start as early as the morning of Aug. 14.

Medical experts say 7-OH, a synthetic and concentrated byproduct of the kratom leaf, produces effects similar to those of opioids and opiates. Currently it can be bought over the counter at gas stations and vape shops, sometimes in packaging designed to appeal to teens, and users have reported that the drug can be addictive.

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who was with Uthmeier, told business owners to "get it off your shelves." The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responsible for consumer safety, and his Agricultural Law Enforcement officers enforce laws related to consumer protection.

"We are going to be very aggressive," Simpson added.

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According to a press release from the attorney general's office, the Florida Department of Health and local agencies have reported a recent increase in emergency room visits and adverse health incidents linked to kratom, particularly among people under 25.

7-OH's high potency has a high rate of addiction, the FDA says. In the past year, Florida Poison Control has received 191 calls about 7-OH exposure, with a 14% increase over the last three months.

Also at the press conference, Dr. Martin Makary, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration commissioner, called 7-OH the "fourth wave of the opioid epidemic."

Makary and other officials are trying to have 7-OH scheduled as an illicit substance at the federal level. That will happen if the Drug Enforcement Administration approves the FDA's sanction after review.

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"This is part of a broader strategy that we are taking in the Trump administration to end (the sale) of illegal vape products," Makary said.

Makary, who shared that his stepson recently died from a 7-OH overdose, said the government will not focus on kratom leaf, just concentrated and synthetic byproducts.

"I am very supportive of people seeking alternatives outside of traditional Western medicine for wellness," Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo said. "Our problem here is not with kratom. The problem today is with 7-OH. We don't need any more substances that disconnect people from reality."

Ladapo said "checking out of reality" makes people "more vulnerable to manipulation," like masking children during the COVID-19 pandemic: "That nonsense would not have been possible if so many of us weren't disconnected from the reality, from our relationship with God, the universe, Earth, the trees, the beaches, the water, the wind, that things that make us human and facilitate our connection with the Earth and God and each other."

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There are currently no official numbers for how many children have died from 7-OH, but Makary said Florida's emergency order will save lives.

Due to the danger posed to the public, Florida is taking 7-OH off the shelves immediately. This dangerous substance is being marketed to teens and young adults and has a high potential for abuse and death, Uthmeier said in a press release. We are grateful for President Trump and Dr. Makary for sounding the alarm  giving my office the foundation to protect Floridians.

Where to get naloxone

The Florida Harm Reduction Collective will mail naloxone anonymously and free of charge to anyone in the state of Florida. For more information, visit: https://www.flhrc.org/.

Ana Goni-Lessan, state watchdog reporter for the USA TODAY Network  Florida, can be reached at agonilessan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida bans 7-OH kratom to prevent 'fourth wave' of opioid crisis
Florida officials have taken emergency action to ban 7-OH, a synthetic drug extracted from kratom, by reclassifying it as a Schedule I controlled substance.

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that an emergency rule has been filed to classify isolated and/or concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I controlled substance in Florida.

This rule, which takes effect immediately, makes it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute any isolated or concentrated form of 7-OH in the state.

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Due to the danger posed to the public, Florida is taking 7-OH off the shelves immediately. This dangerous substance is being marketed to teens and young adults and has a high potential for abuse and death, said Attorney General James Uthmeier.

Dr. Martin Makary stated, It is an opioid and it is scientifically meeting criteria of being an opioid but you can go into almost any vape store on the corner and buy it like a cup of coffee.

State leaders met at Tampa General this afternoon to discuss the dangers of 7-OH.

Officials say it has been touted as healthy, but it will now be considered a controlled substance like heroin or LSD. The emergency order will ban sales of 7-OH in thousands of retail stores across Florida, according to state officials.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A new state law critics condemn as a gift to developers across Florida is drawing mounting opposition from cities and counties now looking to fight back against Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican-led Legislature.

The city of Deltona in Volusia County could be among the first to join a lawsuit looking to overturn the measure, which blocks local governments from making more restrictive or burdensome changes to their comprehensive plans or land development codes.

There are bad things happening because of this new law, said Dori Howington, a Deltona commissioner, who said the city expects to vote Aug. 18 on whether to proceed with a constitutional challenge to the new law.

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Deltona fears the law will be cited by builders looking to overturn the citys nine-month moratorium on new residential development. The building pause was ordered to let the city catch up on drainage and emergency services strained by population growth.

Construction materials are secured at Palm House along Royal Palm Way as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida from the Gulf of Mexico Tuesday October 8, 2024 in Palm Beach.

Lawsuit or urge lawmakers to revisit law?

Other communities also are looking to join the lawsuit spawned by the new law (SB 180), approved overwhelmingly by state lawmakers.

Meantime, some cities and counties are choosing instead to simply urge the Legislature to revisit the law during next years session, which begins in January. They want changes that would untie the hands of local governments.

Still, it may be unlikely that DeSantis and lawmakers will loosen their grip on local governments. DeSantis and newly appointed Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia this summer have sent auditing teams into mostly Democratic-leaning communities to probe city and county tax collections and spending, arguing the focus is on ferreting out waste.

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1000 Friends of Florida, which styles itself as a smart-growth advocacy organization, is warning that, as it stands now, the current law empowers a broad array of people or entities to force a repeal of local development standards.

El Paso's Hunt Companies and Atlanta's Carter real estate development firm partnered to develop the 22-acre Lake Wire mixed-use project in Downtown Lakeland, Florida. The 300-unit Prospect Lake Wire luxury apartments are the centerpiece of the development.

Conflicts with new law abound

There are plenty of signs thats already happening.

Orange County was told recently by state officials that it should scrap its new comprehensive plan, put together after eight years of research and public hearings. The new Vision 2050 was declared in violation of the restrictive and burdensome provisions of the law signed June 26 by DeSantis, the Commerce Department wrote in notifying Orange County.

Osceola Countys new impact fees aimed at improving transportation in the county also are threatened by the law.

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Polk County has put on hold an ordinance that wouldve restricted roosters on some properties, while Tallahassee is considering a moratorium on new gas stations under the cloud of a lawsuit promised by the Florida Petroleum Marketers Association.

More: Gas station group warns Tallahassee: City commission's moratorium may be illegal

Manatee County commissioners say they intend to move ahead with restoring wetlands protections that had been in place until repealed two years ago  even though the move likely violates the new state law.

Similar conflicts have spawned in many Florida cities, including New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Ormond Beach and Stuart.

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The law was intended to bar communities from enacting more strict building requirements following hurricanes and floods. But as it is now cast, the law prohibits communities from moving forward with virtually any planning change, according to many community officials and advocates.

Its especially worrisome in the current hurricane season, after the state was wracked by three devastating hurricanes, Debby, Helene and Milton, in 2024.

The big challenge is that cities and counties cant respond to these more frequent and intense storms, said Kim Dinkins, policy and planning director for 1000 Friends.

Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to a gathering at Garcia Drive and Southwest American Street in Indiantown in Martin County, Florida, at the grand opening of model homes in the Terra Lago community, hailed by the developer, The Garcia Companies, as 'attainable housing.'

Developers lobbied for new law

State records show that some of Floridas largest builders lobbied in support of SB 180. Among them: On Top of The World Communities, the Kolter Group, North Lake Communities, Highland Homes and Associated Builders & Contractors.

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For builders, the law eliminates a nagging concern. After a storm hits, local officials often propose some kind of regulation intended to reduce the risk of a neighborhood suffering future destruction.

The new law bans development changes retroactive back to August last year. It ends in October 2027 but can be automatically extended whenever a hurricane hits within 100 miles of a community, potentially handcuffing governments far into the future.

More potential conflicts loom.

The Pinellas County community of Treasure Island recently approved a four-year moratorium on transportation infrastructure fees  a major break for developers in a town still recovering from last years storms.

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But some critics warn that change could be challenged as restrictive or burdensome to city taxpayers, who will now have to pay more to cover transportation needs.

Baby sea turtles freshly out of a nest.

Turtle lights may be a new battleground

Also raised as a possible casualty of the new law: lighting improvements in coastal communities to protect nesting sea turtles.

State officials recently adopted new sea turtle lighting guidelines for local governments based on improvements in lighting technology.

While counties are encouraged to repeal outdated guidelines and adopt the new ones, that effort also may clang into the new law.

Now, heres the state saying you cant do what were recommending you do, said David Godfrey, executive director of the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

A green sea turtle nest is roped off in the construction zone just south of where crews will begin working this month on the new Flagler Beach Pier.

John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com. Follow him on X: @JKennedyReport.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Local leaders clash with DeSantis over new sweeping development law
Florida wildlife commissioners voted unanimously (5-0) Wednesday morning to reinstate a black bear hunt and approve the final rules for the upcoming hunting season this winter. That regulated hunt will take place over 23 days in December, and it will mark the first Florida black bear season in a decade.

The long-term future of black bear hunting in Florida remains uncertain, however. An advocacy group known as Bear Warriors United filed a related lawsuit against the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Tuesday night, less than 24 hours before the FWC commission meeting was scheduled to take place in Havana. The group is arguing in its suit that FWC improperly delisted the bears in 2012, and part of their intention is to stop future bear hunts from happening, according to WFSU.

Wednesdays approval vote was expected, as commissioners gave their preliminary thumbs up for the states black bear hunt in May. But the move to re-open black bear hunting in Florida has been mired in controversy, even though state biologists say black bear populations are large and healthy enough to sustain a hunt. Those populations have grown across the board since the last regulated hunt was held in 2015, according to FWC, and this has led to increased human-bear conflicts in some places  including Collier County, where the state saw its first-ever fatal black bear attack in May.

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Tuesday nights eleventh-hour lawsuit is just the latest example of the lengths that anti-hunting groups and wildlife activist groups have taken to stop the hunt.

Read Next: Anti-Hunters Will Attempt to Sabotage Floridas Bear Hunt With This Dirty Tactic

USA Today reports that at least a dozen of these groups have organized protests in recent weeks, and some of them bused in members from major cities so they could speak out during the commission meeting that took place Aug. 13 in Havana. That meeting included more than two and a half hours of public testimony, including from representatives of Bear Warriors United.

The commissions unanimous vote solidifies the rules surrounding the 23-day 2025 black bear season that is slated to begin Dec. 6 and end on Dec. 28. FWC will hold a lottery for the 187 available permits, which will allow each hunter to harvest one bear from one of the states four bear management units. There are also harvest caps for each of the BMUs. Permits will cost $100 for residents and $300 for non-residents (with only 10 percent of the available permits going to non-residents.)

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Black bear hunters will be allowed to use both archery gear and firearms  including rifles, pistols, shotguns, and muzzleloaders  and they have to follow specific rules around tagging and harvest reporting. Click here for a full look at the regs that were approved by commissioners Wednesday.

Wednesdays vote also lays the groundwork for future bear-hunting seasons if certain conditions are met. This includes population baselines that need to be maintained in specific bear management units for regulated hunting to continue. The FWCs current plan includes a phased approach for allowing dogs to be used to take bears, which was one of the topics brought up during the recent commission meeting in Havana.
The Brief

State auditors are in St. Petersburg Wednesday and Thursday, reviewing city finances as part of Gov. Ron DeSantis Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative.

The audit targets areas like sustainability projects, DEI programs, transportation, and homeless outreach.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia plans to give an update on the DOGE audit in St. Pete on Wednesday at 12:45 p.m.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - State-appointed auditors will go inside St. Petersburg City Hall on Wednesday for the first of a two-day review of city spending, part of the Florida Department of Government Efficiencys (DOGE) ongoing audits of local governments.

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During a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, protesters chanted, "Watch what they do, not what they say," as Florida's CFO Blaise Ingoglia finished speaking about the DOGE audit.

The press conference turned tense minutes earlier as Ingoglia raised his voice above the crowd and said, "You guys can talk as long and as loud as you want but I am hell-bent on talking about property tax reform."

He said a survey showed that 70 percent of people polled supported property tax relief.

Ingoglia also said DOGE isnt targeting anyone in particular, but everyone, adding that every local government is wasting money.

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When they start going through the data, Ingoglia said he believes the auditors will find items that are not a good use of taxpayer money.

He said he would not give specific examples at this point because there are other counties and cities that have not yet been audited, and he feared that they will hide those items ahead of an audit if they know what the items are.

He told the auditors they need to review the documents as if they are police reviewers and if they see something that doesnt look right, they need to investigate to find waste, fraud and abuse.

The people doing the audits are already on the state budget, but he said his goal is to get a report out to the taxpayers in about 60 days.

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Ingoglia did not give a specific answer when asked how much Florida DOGE is costing but said the auditors were already being paid by the state.

The backstory

In a letter sent earlier this month, DOGE told the city it wants documentation and explanations in several areas. The records under scrutiny range from contracts, employee compensation, and grant management to utilities, transportation, and homeless services.

The request also includes more in-depth questions on "Green New Deal" and sustainability projects, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

PREVIOUS: Gov. DeSantis, Ingoglia announce DOGE audits of local government spending to begin July 31

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Auditors have asked to meet with four city employees whose jobs focus on equity, diversity, sustainability, and resilience.

The letter says St. Petersburg taxpayers have seen their annual property tax burden climb by more than 75% in the past six years and calls the citys spending "excessive."

RELATED: St. Pete's MLK parade keeps city funding despite concerns over Florida DOGE audit

The other side

State Rep. Michele Rayner (D-St. Petersburg) criticized the review as "political retaliation" rather than fiscal oversight. Gov. Ron DeSantis defended DOGEs work, saying, "Clearly a lot of taxpayers are seeing that they are paying more in property taxes than they ever have before, and where is that money going?"

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In a statement on Aug. 4, Mayor Ken Welch said, "We will address any questions that may arise from the states process and move forward with clarity and accountability in the best interest of the residents of St. Petersburg."

DOGE has conducted similar audits in other Florida cities and counties in recent weeks. The St. Pete review continues through Thursday.

What's next

Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia plans to give an update on the DOGE audit in St. Pete on Wednesday at 12:45 p.m.

The Source

Information for this story was gathered by FOX 13's Matthew McClellan.
Citizens protesting Florida DOGE in front of City Hall in St. Petersburg on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

ST. PETERSBURG  State-appointed auditors came to St. Petersburg Wednesday to begin two days reviewing spending by Mayor Ken Welch and the majority Democratic-led City Council.

Confronting them was a group of local residents in front of City Hall who declared they didnt trust what the DeSantis administration says is the motivation for looking into local government spending.

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Mimicking the federal initiative led by Elon Musk in the first months of the second Trump administration, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis introduced Floridas Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) earlier this year, describing it as an effort to eliminate waste within state government, save taxpayers money, and ensure accountability.

But its been turbocharged into a higher gear, looking at municipal and county government spending, ever since DeSantis appointed former GOP state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia as chief financial officer last month.

Look, all of this is  because property taxes have been skyrocketing here in the state of Florida, Ingoglia told reporters inside St. Petersburg City Hall on Wednesday.

But the critics who stood outside in the blazing heat earlier said they werent buying it.

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They have no business messing around with our city government, said St. Pete resident Diane Willis. They dont even run our own state government well. I mean, the governor talked about transparency and accountability was the reason for DOGE.

He should look in his own backyard, she continued, explicitly naming Hope Florida, the community-based welfare program initiated by First Lady Casey DeSantis that came under fire earlier this year and whose foundation is reportedly being investigated by state prosecutors.

I think its a lie, added Seminole resident Mary McMullen, who grew up in St. Petersburg, about the stated mission of DOGE to eliminate waste in government spending. Thats not why theyre here.

DEI

Their letter talked about DEI, McMullen said. It talked about whether we have electric vehicles. It talked about the environment and that we are having the nerve to get involved in anything that might speak about problems with the environment. So, if they were here for what they say they were here for Im fine, but thats not it.

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McMullen was referencing the nine-page letter sent by Florida DOGE to St. Petersburg officials on Aug. 1, which made numerous references to DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) policies adopted in the city in recent years. Auditors also said that they wanted information about policies regarding resiliency and battling climate change, as well as specific purchases or leases of electric vehicles.

Thats a problem, as far as City Council member Brandi Gabbard is concerned.

St. Petersburg City Council member Brandi Gabbard outside City Hall in St. Pete on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

Surprisingly and upsettingly, theres also a lot of questions regarding our resilience work and sustainability work. And we live in a coastal community where were incredibly vulnerable. And so to think that those sorts of initiatives could potentially be opposed by our state, to me really doesnt look like moving forward in a cohesive way to protect the residents that we serve, she told the Phoenix while walking out of City Hall to observe the protest on Wednesday.

In January 2019, St. Petersburg was selected to participate in the American Cities Climate Challenge, an initiative backed by Bloomberg Philanthropies to tackle climate change and promote a sustainable future. Florida DOGE is now requesting records of all actions, communications and expenditures to date in support of that program.

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Like most locally elected officials who have been interviewed by the news reporters ahead of planned DOGE visits, Gabbard said she welcomed state officials scrutinizing the city budget, because she believes the council and Welch have been good stewards of the publics money.

I would push back on any claim that theres any waste within those tax dollars, she said. As far as any savings to be found, if theres an opportunity to save a single penny that is a taxpayer dollar, we certainly want to look at that, but we are very confident in what we spend our tax dollars on and that is to get the best service that we possibly can for the city of St Petersburg.

A long-term thing

Florida DOGEs two-day audit of St. Petersburgs budget comes two days after a similar inquiry began across the bay with the Hillsborough County Commission. There, Ingoglia promised that this months inquiries were not a one-and-done situation.

We have a lot of work to do with the counties. We have a lot of work to do with the cities. But what I can tell you is that Im not going away, he said on Monday. Cities and counties should not be mistaken that this is a short-term thing. This is a long-term thing.

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During a Tampa press conference, DeSantis appeared surprised when asked about the planned protest against DOGE in St. Petersburg.

What are they protesting? he asked of the photojournalist who posed the question.

They dont like DOGE, the journalist responded.

The governor replied by talking about the rise in property taxes, as he and Ingoglia have been campaigning for a 2026 constitutional amendment that would ask voters to limit taxes on homestead properties. Such an initiative would have to be approved by the Legislature early next year, and there are no specific details about what it would entail at this time.

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The question is, youve seen a lot of bloated budgets, DeSantis said. Where is that money going to? And theyll say that its for things that we all agree on. Education. Public safety. First responders. But I can tell you, theres a lot of stuff beyond that that some of these governments are spending these tax dollars on.

Do you need to be spending $3 million on DEI consultants? he said, perhaps in reference to St. Petersburgs budget. Would you rather them spending it on that, or would you rather have property tax cuts?

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The X post by Floridas education commissioner caught Hillsborough County school district officials off guard.

It showed the cover of a book, Trans Mission, which commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas said was filled with unspecified inappropriate content. And it came with a warning: Get rid of the book, written by a transgender YouTube personality, or face the states wrath.

District leaders said they learned about the commissioners concerns only because the superintendent was tagged. And that disturbed some of them.

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Its disappointing that, at this point, leadership is communicating with us through Twitter instead of a phone call or an email or something professional, where we have the opportunity to have a collaborative relationship about whats best, said Hillsborough school board chairperson Jessica Vaughn, whose district already was facingaccusations that it had pornographic materials on its shelves.

Shes not alone in questioning the commissioners aggressive approach during his first month in office.

The former deputy chief of staff to Gov. Ron DeSantis has gained attention through his use of threats, warnings and public shaming to demonize school board members, district officials and union leaders whom he accuses of not adhering to the DeSantis agenda. At the same time, he has heaped praise on groups and individuals who share his views.

His style came through on his first day, when Kamoutsas sent letters to superintendents and principals telling them not to violate the rights of parents or teachers. If the department gets wind of violations, he advised, I will be knocking on your door.

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He suggested the state might pursuecriminal penalties against officials who do not comply, linking forces with Attorney General James Uthmeier.

Since then, Kamoutsas has:

Warned teacher union leaders against using delay tactics in getting state-funded raises into teacher paychecks, though no union had taken steps to do so.

Told districts to stop using the Beanstack online library catalog, saying it pushed ideology, citing an incident that Beanstack said did not involve any school accounts. The department is creating its own centralized system promoted by a lobbyist with ties to DeSantis.

Accused the Alachua County school board of violating parents First Amendment rights at a board meeting. A review of the meeting shows all residents were permitted to speak and no one was removed from the chamber, althoughit was considered.

Each step of the way, Kamoutsas  previously an administration insider with no social media profile  posted his thoughts and actions on the X account he established in May.

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Its a new way of doing business, observed Andrea Messina, executive director of the Florida School Boards Association.

A Department of Education spokesperson said Kamoutsas was not available to comment.

Its anapproach used by others in the governors office, including DeSantis himself. The officials gain attention by making broad pronouncements of wrongdoing, invoking incendiary adjectives to describe murky behavior, and threatening retaliation unless the targets change their ways.

Newly appointed Chief Financial OfficerBlaise Ingoglia, for example, announced on social media that he had heard local government officials may be altering data systems to hide information from state efficiency auditors. Let me be clear: I have no problem issuing subpoenas and putting people under oath to catch you, Ingoglia said, offering no specific examples.

Past education commissioners did not shy away from taking districts to task for their actions. They more often relied on formal communication and official actions than governing through tweets and threats, though.

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State Board of Education chairperson Ryan Petty praised Kamoutsas, who was known as an enforcer in the Governors Office before his appointment, for setting the right tone for Florida education.

His accomplishments in just the first few weeks have been impressive, and his leadership is already making meaningful impact across our state, he said via email. Its evident from his most recent letter, he is focused on academic excellence over indoctrination.

Jude Bruno, president-elect of Florida PTA, suggested there might be a generational divide in viewing the commissioners reliance on social media to communicate.

This is what we were brought up in. We should not take offense in that, Bruno said. We need to get into the discussion. This is a moment for us to be adaptive.

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He expressed greater concern that Kamoutsas has focused on issues that divide rather than topics that matter more to families, such as adequate funding and free speech for all.

Many school district officials are more on edge. Several contacted by the Tampa Bay Times declined to comment, saying they did not want to be the next target.

Alachua County school board vice chairperson Tina Certain, who ran the meeting that Kamoutsas vilified, said the overarching silence wouldnt stop her from calling out what she deemed fear, intimidation and chilling from the commissioners office.

Certain said the allegations in the commissioners letter, which he sent to the district and shared on X, did not reflect what really happened.

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Kamoutsas wrote that the board directed officers to remove a speaker because of his conservative views, and no one did anything to stop it. Because the board publicly failed to ensure free expression of all viewpoints during public comment, he stated that he found probable cause of a state law violation.

Certain acknowledged asking deputies to escort a speaker from the room after he completed his comments, saying he antagonized others in the audience as he returned to his seat. She quickly reversed her request on the board lawyers advice.

Im not sure if this letter was mistaken or if hes just outright lying, Certain said. I think he is trying to chill the speech ... of anyone who does not agree with him and the current administration.

She said she understood why no one wants to fight the administration, which has not hesitated to oust elected officials in the past.

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It will hurt your district long after youre gone, Certain said. But if you bow down to the bully, is anybody safe?

In the case of the Hillsborough library book, Superintendent Van Ayres responded to the commissioners social media post with his own, writing that he had made the title available only with parental consent while the district reviews the content.

Soon after, Uthmeier trashed that decision on X, as did the state boards Petty, who questioned whether Ayres needed help finding the moral clarity that appears to elude you. A day later, Ayres agreed to remove the book completely, and recommend the removal of two others, without commenting on the content.

Hillsborough board chairperson Vaughn said she saw the logic of ending a likely no-win fight when so many more important issues must be handled. Still, she worried the quick capitulation would make it easier for the administration to govern through threats without providing justification or considering local views.

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Hillsborough has been one of the biggest holdouts to parts of the DeSantis agenda, Vaughn said. Everyone will be scared when they break the most defiant child. Then everyone will fall in line.

Kamoutsas all but telegraphed that message in his Friday X post.

We will continue to ensure that the material in Florida schools focuses on enhancing academic achievement, not gender ideology, he wrote. @VanAyresHCPS was wise to pull these books. All school districts remain on notice and should govern themselves accordingly.

Staff writer Divya Kumar contributed to this report.
The Brief

Giovanni Pelletier, 18, was found dead in a Manatee County pond a week after disappearing during a family trip.

Authorities say he acted erratically before leaving his cousins car and sent a text asking for help.

No suspects have been named; the investigation is ongoing as the family demands answers.

ORLANDO, Fla. - The Manatee County Sheriffs Office continues to investigate the death of 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier, whose body was found Friday in a pond near State Road 70, a week after he disappeared while on vacation.

What we know

Giovanni Pelletier, 18, was found dead in a pond near State Road 70 in Manatee County a week after disappearing while on vacation.

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He was last seen exiting his cousins car on the side of a highway in the early morning hours of Aug. 1, reportedly acting erratically. Multiple Florida law enforcement agencies, including the Brevard County Sheriffs Office, assisted in the search.

How Giovanni ended up in the pond remains unclear. Details about the exact circumstances leading to his death are still under investigation. No suspects have been named among the people he was with that night.

The backstory

Giovanni had ties to the Central Florida community and was traveling with cousins towards Brevard County before his disappearance. He sent a text message to his mother asking for help shortly before he went missing.

Big picture view

The family is demanding a thorough investigation and answers about the circumstances of Giovannis death. The case highlights the communitys concern for safety and the need for clarity in unexplained deaths.

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Timeline

On August 1, Giovanni Pelletier was last seen exiting his cousins car around 1:30 a.m. near State Road 70 and later sent a text to his mother asking for help. Giovannis body was discovered in a pond near State Road 70 a week later.

What they're saying

Giovanni Pelletier's cousin, Morgan Hull, said the family wants justice.

"We got the worst news in the world, and we just want answers. We want to know what happened," she said.

Hull said the family is requesting that the Federal Bureau of Investigation get involved.

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"We want this investigation to be completely thorough. We dont want anything missed," she said.

The Manatee County Sheriffs Office said that none of the people Giovanni was with the night he disappeared have been named as suspects. It added that a dedicated team is using "every available tool and resource to determine the events that led up to the discovery of the body.

The sheriff's office added that it is awaiting final results of a comprehensive forensic testing.

The Source

This story was written based on information shared by the Manatee County Sheriffs Office and Giovanni Pelletier's cousin, Morgan Hull.
Newly-appointed Lt. Gov. Jay Collins isnt jumping into the race to succeed term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis.

At least not yet.

DeSantis on Aug. 13 praised Collins for his military background and record as a state senator, touting him as a potential good candidate, but noted the primary for the governors race is another year away.

Jay has been clear: This has been about doing a mission. Politics will take care of itself, DeSantis said at an event in Tampa.

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Collins, 47, was elected to the Florida Senate for a district covering part of Hillsborough County in 2022 after being recruited to run by DeSantis. A Green Beret with tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Collins was lauded by DeSantis for standing with him during his push for illegal immigration enforcement laws earlier in the year.

Sen. Jay Collins speaks at a press conference on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

DeSantis praises Collins: 'Blown away by his story'

Beyond being able to do the job of governor, though, DeSantis said Collins would be a good candidate on the campaign trail.

A lot of the people that didnt know much about him were really blown away by his story, DeSantis said of his Aug. 12 announcement naming Collins as lieutenant governor. He definitely has the ingredients to be a compelling candidate that would grab attention.

DeSantis comments come against the backdrop of a nascent campaign season that could resurrect the feud between him and President Donald Trump.

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U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Naples, has already started his campaign for governor and has received Trumps endorsement. DeSantis has notably not endorsed Donalds, who backed Trump in 2024 when DeSantis challenged him for the GOP nomination for President.

But DeSantis also downplayed speculation that his wife, First Lady Casey DeSantis, would run to succeed him: Thats not anything she has ever outwardly sought. Shes really happy making a difference.

On the Democratic side in the governors race, the only major candidate who has filed to run is former U.S. Rep. David Jolly, a Republican who left the GOP and became a Democrat in April.

Democratic former U.S. Rep. Al Lawson Jr. of Tallahassee has said hes considering a run as well.

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More: Former US Rep. Al Lawson of Tallahassee eyes Florida governor race in 2026

Gray Rohrer is a reporter with the USA TODAY Network-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at grohrer@gannett.com. Follow him on X: @GrayRohrer.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: DeSantis praises Jay Collins but says talk of governor bid can wait
TALLAHASSEE  The head of the states hospital association warned Wednesday that a large number of Floridianscould become uninsured if Congress doesnt take action soon to protect Affordable Care Act tax credits.

Since 2021, enhanced premium tax credits have offered millions of Floridians cheaper health care when they get their coverage through the federal marketplace. Those tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year unless Congress acts.

It is going to make the difference between having access to care and not having access to care, said Mary Mayhew, the head of the Florida Hospital Association. It is that simple.

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Mayhew spoke as part of a panel hosted by Florida Conservatives For Affordable Health Care, which was formed by the right-leaning consulting group Red Hills Strategies.

The group warned that people across the state, both low-income and middle-class, could see their costs increase by potentially thousands of dollars if the credits expire.

And that could lead to Florida taxpayers shouldering more of the burden, the group warned, saying insurers could increase prices or hospitals may have to turn to state government for more funding.

If people become uninsured, more would turn to emergency departments as a first point of care, Mayhew said, which would increase hospitals costsand the amount of unpaid services they provide.

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Mayhew said whenhospitals see more unpaid expenses, theymay, for financial reasons, opt to return to their core mission and stop or reduce subsidizing programs like labor and delivery or psychiatric care.

Republicans need to look at the federal marketplace as absolutely supporting their philosophy, Mayhew said. She said that making sure people are insured helps support small businesses and gives people economic mobility.

Floridas uninsured rate could double if the tax credits expire, according to projections from the Florida Policy Institute, a nonprofit think tank.

About 4.6million Floridians rely on health care plans purchased through the Affordable Care Act marketplace, far more than similarly-sized states like California, New York or Texas.

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According to the health policy research groupKFF, in 2024, Floridians received about$27 billion in advanced premium tax credits for the4 million beneficiaries.

So far, members of Floridas Republican congressional delegation have been largely quiet about their thoughts on the tax credits expiring.

Brewster Bevis, the head of the business group Associated Industries of Florida, said he and others are focused on letting Floridas delegation know about the risk.

I worked in D.C., I worked on Capitol Hill, Bevis said. Its not until its in front of your face, in a burning dumpster fire, that you really start paying attention to these issues.

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Bevis said its bad for business if the workforce doesnt have reliable health care, and noted that small businesses and self-employed people could be impacted.

Because many people may not know theyre receiving the subsidy, Bevis said they may blame health insurers when their premiums increase.

Bevis said he opposed the Affordable Care Act when he was lobbying in D.C.But he said the tax credits are working to support families.

We were dealt a hand, and were dealing with the hand we were dealt, and its working, Bevis said.
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo on Monday, August 11, launched an ambitious eight-year strategic plan to modernise the countrys National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) and strengthen its capacity to combat both domestic and transnational crime.

Speaking at the unveiling of the SERNIC Strategic Plan 20252033 in Maputo, Chapo hailed the initiative as a historic and transformative step towards fortifying the justice system and safeguarding national security.

Centred on four pillarstechnological and scientific upgrades to criminal investigations, institutional strengthening and continuous training, decisive action against organised and economic-financial crime, and building public trustthe plan targets Mozambiques most pressing security challenges, including corruption, terrorism, cybercrime, and environmental offences.

The strategy is closely aligned with the countrys National Development Strategy 20252044, the governments five-year programme for 20252029, and key international agreements. Chapo underscored the importance of integrated, collaborative, and swift responses, urging both citizens and visitors to share intelligence that could aid in crime prevention and resolution. He reaffirmed his administrations commitment to institutional reform and to working with domestic and global partners to ensure peace, justice, and securityobjectives he described as fundamental to Mozambiques long-term stability and sustainable development.
A man from Palm Coast was taken into custody on Friday evening for reportedly assaulting a deputy sheriff during a disturbance at Cantina Louie restaurant.

Michael Mahon, 58, was involved in a fight at the restaurant before being asked to leave. Deputies located him on an electric bicycle near the Island Walk shopping plaza, where he resisted arrest and tried to escape.

Sheriff Rick Staly commented, This guy took a relatively minor incident and turned it into a felony. If you ever lay your hands on a deputy sheriff, I can guarantee that youll earn a trip to the Green Roof Inn.

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Deputies responded to Cantina Louie after a caller reported an intoxicated customer causing a disturbance. Mahon was identified as the suspect who swung at another customer.

As deputies tried to detain Mahon, he became aggressive and shoved a deputy, resulting in a struggle. Mahon attempted to flee but was eventually caught and taken into custody after falling in the parking lot.

Mahone was charged with battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, petty theft for stealing an e-bike, and giving a false name to law enforcement.

Employees at Cantina Louie confirmed Mahon as the suspect involved in the fight, and he was officially trespassed from the restaurant.

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More than 900 people participated in the 2025 Python Challenge, a 10-day hunt in the steamy South Florida heat that this year made history on two fronts with the first woman to win the grand prize and the most total snakes caught since the competition began in 2013.

The winners of the contest were announced Aug. 13, including Taylor Stanberry, who at 4-feet, 11-inches tall is taking home the grand prize of $10,000 for catching 60 snakes.

Stanberry, 29, is the first woman to win the grand prize in Florida's Python Challenge.

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Overall, the catches were also monumental this year with 294 pythons captured  the most in the contest's history.

"Every invasive python removed is a win," said Sarah Funk, nonnative fish and wildlife program coordinator with the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission.

At least one participant noted that the July dates for the hunt lined up with new hatchlings swarming the southern wetlands, which provided plenty of opportunities for hunters.

Donna Kalil, a contract hunter for the South Florida Water Management District, nabbed 56 snakes during the Python Challenge between July 11 and July 20. She brought in 19 during the 2024 contest when the event was held Aug. 9 through Aug. 18. The grand prize winner last year nabbed 20 snakes.

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More: Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge goes on offense to fight invasive Burmese python spread

"It's all because of the timing," said Kalil, who won $2,500 this year for catching the most snakes in the professional category of the challenge. "There were a lot of little baby snakes just getting out of the nest. Some had already had a meal. They come out and are ready to eat."

Burmese python breed in the late winter to early spring with females laying clutches of eggs in March or April. The incubation period lasts between 60 to 90 days. Hatchlings can be up to two feet long, which is a lot of what Kalil said she caught. Her longest snake measured 5 feet, 5 inches. Last year she brought in a 12-footer.

"All I got was little guys," she said.

Taylor Stanberry, right, with her husband Rhett Stanberry holding a Burmese python they caught in the Everglades. Taylor won the $10,000 grand prize in the 2025 Florida Python Challenge.

Stanberry, of Naples, is a contract hunter wiht the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. She said she has been hunting pythons for 10 years but this was the first year she entered the challenge. Her Facebook profile says she is a digital creator with an exotic animal sanctuary.

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"There are so many amazing female python hunters out there so I had some tough competition," Stanberry said after leaving the Aug. 13 FWC Commission meeting where the results were announced.

Stanberry confirmed Kalil's observation that most of her catches were babies, but she did nab one that she said was between 9.5 and 10-feet long.

A total of 934 hunters participated in this year's challenge.

More: UF researchers deploy robotic rabbits across South Florida to fight Burmese python explosion

While this year's participation is higher than 2024, the number of hunters has fluctuated over the years from a high of nearly 1,600 in 2013 to just 600 during the pandemic year of 2021.

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Participants hunted in designated areas that stretch from western Palm Beach County to the Tamiami Trail in the Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area. Other management areas included in the Python Challenge are Holey Land, Rotenberger and Southern Glades.

This was also the first year that Everglades National Park allowed people to hunt in the park during the challenge.

Other 2025 Python Challenge winners in the professional category include Hannah Gray, who won $1,500 for most pythons runner up with 22 snakes, and Kennith Chamberland for longest python at 9 feet, 8 inches.

In the novice category, Krista Hoekstra won $2,500 for the most pythons with 14. Kymberly Clark was runner-up with seven pythons, earning her $1,500. Michael Marousky won $1,000 for the longest python in the novice category with a snake measuring 15 feet, 11 inches.

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Active duty and military veteran winners include John Southworth, who won $2,500 for bringing in the most pythons at five. Most pythons runner up in the military category was Matthew Jamison with three snakes. Jonathan Miller won $1,000 for the longest python in the military category with a snake that measured 11 feet, 2 inches.

What are the prizes for the Florida Python Challenge?

The $10,000 grand prize is awarded to the participant who removes the most snakes as part of the competition.

There are also three competition categories including professional, novice and military. Each category includes a $2,500 price for most pythons caught, $1,500 for the second-highest number of pythons caught and $1,000 for the longest python.

Participants may only win one prize, so if someone wins two, the person will be awarded the prize of the highest value and the next qualifying hunter will win the remaining prize.

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More: Python 'hot spot' identified in Palm Beach County by University of Florida study

Why hunt Burmese pythons?

Florida earnestly began hunting pythons in about 2012. It was the first year of the Python Challenge and the same year a study in Everglades National Park suggested pythons were responsible for a decline of 85% to 100% of the population of medium-sized furry animals, such as raccoons and rabbits.

The Burmese python invasion started with releases  intentional or not  that allowed them to gain a foothold in the park by the mid-1980s, according to the 2021 Florida Python Control plan.

By 2000, multiple generations of pythons were living in the park, which is noted in a more than 100-page 2023 report that summarized decades of python research.

How many pythons have been caught?

Anthony Flanagan is one of several python contractors hired by the South Florida Water Management District for the Python Elimination Program. Here is holding a Burmese python he captured along with the nest of eggs he located nearby.

More than 15,800 snakes have been removed by hunters from the South Florida Water Management District and FWC since 2019.

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The hunters were called the "most effective management strategy in the history of the issue" by district invasive animal biologist Mike Kirkland.

Kimberly Miller is a journalist for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network of Florida. She covers real estate, weather, and the environment. Subscribe to The Dirt for a weekly real estate roundup. If you have news tips, please send them to kmiller@pbpost.com. Help support our local journalism, subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: 2025 Florida Python Challenge winners announced by FWC
The Florida Surgeon General has weighed in on an E. coli outbreak linked to raw milk from a farm in New Smyrna Beach, emphasizing the importance of informed health choices.

The outbreak has raised concerns as raw milk consumption is illegal for human consumption in Florida. The Surgeon General stated that while he supports the decision to consume raw milk for its potential health benefits, individuals should be aware of their sources and understand the associated risks.

Floridians have the freedom to make informed health choices, the Surgeon General said. I support the decision to consume raw milk when sought for potential health benefits and protective factors. Be aware of your source and know the risks.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Florida law says it's illegal to sell raw milk for human consumption, but that's not stopping some of the state's top officials from supporting residents who want to drink it.

Some have even made a complete 180, from promoting pasteurized milk to promoting consumer freedom within days.

In an Aug. 12 post on X, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo said Floridians "have the freedom to make informed health choices."

Floridians have the freedom to make informed health choices. I support the decision to consume raw milk when sought for potential health benefits and protective factors. Be aware of your source and know the risks.https://t.co/n78r8e1Tl3 https://t.co/n78r8e1Tl3  Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD (@FLSurgeonGen) August 12, 2025

"I support the decision to consume raw milk when sought for potential health benefits and protective factors. Be aware of your source and know the risks," Ladapo wrote.

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Illness from raw milk can cause diarrhea, stomach cramping and vomiting, and severe complications can lead to paralysis, kidney failure, stroke, or even death, federal authorities say.

Interest in raw milk has been growing in recent years. In June 2024, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he "only drinks raw milk."

Raw milk doesn't cure ailments, experts say

Raw milk devotees say it tastes better and is healthier, but according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the American Medical Association, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, raw milk does not contain any extra beneficial bacteria and will not cure or treat asthma, allergies or lactose intolerance.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson agreed with Ladapo in a statement given to the USA TODAY NETWORK  Florida on Aug. 12: State Surgeon General Ladapo and I share the same position on raw milk. People should make informed decisions."

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To be sure, it's a reversal to what his agency was saying a week ago.

A sign along South Glencoe Road advertises raw milk at Keely Farms Dairy of New Smyrna Beach. The dairy was identified by the Florida Department of Health as the source of raw milk that sickened 21 people over the past six months. Seven have been hospitalized, health officials said, and two suffered severe complications.

In a press release on Aug. 6, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services encouraged Floridians to drink "only" pasteurized milk.

"Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) are encouraging Floridians to protect their health by only consuming pasteurized milk products," the press release says.

Floridas pasteurized milk supply is safe, nutritious, and closely controlled from the farm to your local grocery store, Simpson said in the release. There have been no reported illnesses from pasteurized milk products in Florida, so Floridians should continue to buy and enjoy nutritious and wholesome dairy products from Florida farmers.

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As previously reported earlier this month, 21 people got sick and seven were hospitalized for bacterial infections, including E. coli, from drinking raw milk from Keely Farms Dairy in New Smyrna Beach.

Raw milk: OK as pet food in Florida

Raw milk can be sold as pet food in Florida, but it must be clearly labeled "not for human consumption." the Keely Farms' webpage did not mention pets.

Six of the infected people were children under age 10, the Florida Department of Health said. The cases were all in Central and Northeast Florida.

Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo at the inauguration of Gov. Ron DeSantis on Jan. 2, 2023.

According to the CDC, improperly handled raw milk is responsible for nearly three times more hospitalizations than any other food-borne disease source.

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And so far in 2025, there have been seven recalls or outbreaks from raw milk in the United States.

More from the Palm Beach Post: Opinion | Floridians can make America healthy again by not drinking raw milk

Ana Goni-Lessan, state watchdog reporter for the USA TODAY Network  Florida, can be reached at agonilessan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida surgeon general says raw milk benefits. Experts say he's wrong
Nearly 450 young children in low-income families in Detroit will be without free childcare and early education this school year, following the closure of Focus: HOPE's Early Head Start and Head Start sites after its federal funding ran out on July 31 and was not renewed.

Focus: HOPE, which provides a variety of services to low-income individuals including early education, will continue its before and after school care, along with its universal pre-K, known as the Great Start for Readiness Program. The program, which received $6 million in federal money last year, serves families across the central and northwest areas of the city.

In addition to the nearly 450 kids impacted, more than 100 Head Start staff, some of whom are Head Start parents themselves, were laid off.

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"They did exactly what they said they were not going to do," said Waymond Hayes, director of early learning at Focus: HOPE. "They cut money affecting our cities and they cut slots, which is affecting our kids."

Families gather at a Focus: HOPE parent townhall Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025 to learn about the programs Head Start closure.

On Thursday, Aug. 7, Focus: HOPE was officially notified that its Head Start program, which serves low-income families including pregnant moms and children ages infant to 4 years old through home-based and center-based early education programming, would not receive federal funding through a grant for which they had applied.

The reasoning behind the loss of funding remains unclear given no other organization competed with Focus: HOPE for Head Start funding within the four ZIP codes they serve, said Portia Roberson, Focus: HOPE CEO.

"It is unacceptable to do this to our babies," Roberson said at a parent townhall her organization organized on Tuesday, Aug. 12, where she updated families on the ongoing situation and directed them to send letters to Congress. "There may be a chance to reverse this decision. Get in touch with your representatives and tell them, we want Focus: HOPE to have a Head Start program."

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The federal Department of Health and Human Services, which houses the Administration for Children and Families, did not respond to a request for comment.

Shontori Bowles, a social worker and mother of five in Detroit, was planning to go back to work as a K-12 teacher this fall. Everything was set. Her soon to be 6-month-old and 3-year-old would enter Early Head Start at the end of August. Today, however, she learned Focus: HOPE's Head Start programs did not have funding and her childcare plan had fallen apart. Now, Bowles will stay home with her children to see what other options she might find them.

"I'm not going to put my child just anywhere," Bowles said. "Head Start is not babysitting, it's early education and I won't have my baby sit there, and not grow and thrive. I'm also not going to just work to pay for childcare as well."

Shontori Bowles and her 5-month-old Shonard attend Focus: HOPEs parent townhall meeting about funding cuts on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Bowles five children have all benefited from Head Start programming at Focus: HOPE.

Bowles said she feels uneasy and frustrated by the lack of opportunity now that this high quality, free option has been taken away.

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"I worked so hard to get to this point, I did all of the things to be a productive citizen and now because of childcare I'm back to square one," she said. "I don't want to just survive, I want to actually thrive, and this program gave me the ability to thrive, to not just work and have it all go to childcare."

Hayes said parents like Bowles face a conundrum: Other Head Start sites are inaccessible from members in the community they serve, often many miles away. For those who are able to travel the distance to other surrounding options, those Head Start slots are likely already taken by other children who've already enrolled.

Roberson said she was confused about how and why Focus: HOPE did not receive the federal grant. She said she understood the grant to be competitive, but prior to applying for funding, Focus: HOPE, along with two other large Head Start providers in Detroit, MiSide and Starfish Family Services, had agreed to apply only for funding for the specific ZIP codes they service.

Related: Supporters of a fast-growing cash aid program urge lawmakers to take it statewide

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It would have been one thing if another organization had beat them out for the Head Start funding in their area, Roberson said, but of the $46 million in Head Start funding the federal government allocated for Detroit, only around $15 million has been dispensed to MiSide and Starfish Family Services. The question remains as to where the rest of the funding is.

"It's disheartening to know that it's still there, it's not like the money is gone. You didn't give it to us, and you didn't give it to anyone else," Roberson said.

Roberson said Focus: HOPE is waiting on an assessment of its denied grant application from the Administration for Children and Families, which administered the funding, for more information.

Robin Bozek, the director of the Michigan Head Start Association, said Focus: HOPE is the only program she's heard of in Michigan who has experienced this situation.

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Beki San Martin is a fellow at the Detroit Free Press who covers childcare, early childhood education and other issues that affect the lives of children ages 5 and under and their families in metro Detroit and across Michigan. Contact her at rsanmartin@freepress.com.

This fellowship is supported by the Bainum Family Foundation. The Free Press retains editorial control of this work.

This story has been updated to reflect new information.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Many parents left without child care after Detroit Head Start closure




NEED TO KNOW

Police in Uvalde, Texas released footage from the deadly 2022 shooting at Robb Elementary School, which left 19 students and two teachers dead

The footage was obtained after an extended legal battle with the local police and amid criticism of their response to the tragedy

In the footage, parents could be heard pleading with officers to take steps to protect their children







Newly released police footage from the 2022 school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, which killed 19 children and two teachers, shows parents desperately pleading for officers to charge into the school and save their children.

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The heartbreaking footage of the deadly shooting at Robb Elementary School was released on Tuesday, Aug. 12, as part of the final records of the incident, which were previously withheld by local authorities. The records were finally obtained after a legal battle over public access rights, the Associated Press reported.

In the police body cam video obtained by AP and NBC News, parents can be heard calling out to the armed police waiting outside the school.

Either you go in there, or Im going in there, bro, one father said, adding, My kids are in there, per the outlets.

In another video, an officer at the scene was heard saying, We cant see him at all in regards to 18-year-old gunman Salvador Ramos. They added, We were at the front, and he started shooting. Speaking to fellow officers, one emergency responder confirmed that Ramos was locked in a room with kids, per AP.

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Pete Arredondo, Chief of Police at the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District Police Department, could be heard attempting to make contact with Ramos in another clip.

These are innocent children, sir. Please talk to me," he pleaded.

A woman identified as Ramos' aunt by NBC was seen in another clip, desperately begging authorities to "kill him" as they held her back from the scene of the crime.

Jordan Vonderhaar/Getty Images Robb Elementary School Robb Elementary School

Several gunshots were heard after police stormed the classroom where Ramos had barricaded himself. He was shot dead. Armed officers were then seen running into the room, while other officers frantically called for medical backup.

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At 11:33 a.m. local time on May 24, 2022, gunman Ramos entered the school through an open back door and opened fire inside two fourth-grade classrooms, killing 19 children and two teachers.

The police footage of the shooting was released after heavy criticism of the slow response from law enforcement to the shooting in an incident review by the U.S. Justice Department in 2024. The review revealed that police didnt confront the gunman until 77 minutes after the first shots were fired at the school.

In June 2024, Arredondo was indicted on 10 charges of child endangerment in connection with the police response to the 2022 shooting. Former school district police officer Adrian Gonzales was also indicted on 29 counts of child endangerment.

ALLISON DINNER/AFP via Getty Robb Elementary School

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According to the final records from the mass shooting more missteps in the police's response to the shooting were uncovered, per AP.

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Notably, deputies visited the gunmans home three months before the shooting after his mother said she was scared of him. They returned two more times days before the shooting occurred.

Jesse Rizo, the uncle of 9-year-old victim Jackie Cazares, was among a group of family members who pushed for the records to be released.

For those that are ready for it, I hope that it provides some kind of healing," he said, per AP.

PEOPLE has contacted the Uvalde County Sheriff's Department for comment.

Read the original article on People
Det. Josh Browns supervisor at the Forest Lake Police Department said its hard to remember a time when Brown wasnt smiling.

He was constantly smiling, always smiling, said Det. Sgt. Jonathan Glader. I dont know where they came from. He was just always genuinely excited to see the person that he was walking towards. He was genuinely excited to come in the doors of the police department and see his coworkers. He was genuinely excited when we would get together outside of work hours.

Brown, 41, died unexpectedly Monday morning at his home in North Branch, Minn. Officials are still waiting for the cause of death from the Midwest Medical Examiners Office, but there were no suspicious circumstances and no trauma, Glader said.

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Glader found Browns body around 11 a.m. Monday when he went to Browns house at the request of Browns wife, Jennifer, who was out of town visiting family and couldnt reach him. Brown, who was attached to the departments narcotics unit, did not show up for work that day.

Its a tough one, Glader said. Josh was such an amazing guy. He obviously enjoyed his job. He loved his family. Deeply. He loved everybody around him.

Brown, a 2002 graduate of Forest Lake Area High School, had served on the police department since 2017. Prior to that, he worked for two years as a patrol officer with the Wyoming (Minn.) Police Department. He also served eight years with the Minnesota Army National Guard.

Extra mile(s)

More than 1,400 people have commented on a Forest Lake Police Departments Facebook post about Browns death. He served with dedication and tenacity as a patrol officer and detective during his career, the post states. Detective Brown will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the whole law enforcement community.

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One woman commented that Brown picked her up on the freeway at 4 a.m. one morning when both her car and her cellphone had died.

I had to go on foot, she wrote. I walked to a nearby exit to get help. But he picked me up, and he went extra miles. He called his sergeant to get approval to see if he could drop me off all the way home because I couldnt find a way to get home if he left me at the nearest gas station. So yes, so did take me home and made sure I was safe. I will never forget that. He had a heart of gold. May he rest in peace. Many will miss him and the good deeds he did.

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Brown could always be counted on to have good interactions with the public, Glader said. He was just so positive.

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Brown was an avid fitness enthusiast and amateur body builder who regularly worked out at Anytime Fitness in Forest Lake, Glader said. He had recently competed in a bodybuilding competition  the National Physique Committees Twin Cities Open at Mystic Lake Casino  and placed second in the Mens Physiques True Novice B division.

A procession was held Wednesday morning to accompany Browns body from the medical examiners office to Mattson Funeral Home in Forest Lake.

Line the route, wave a flag, or place your hand over your heart as the procession passes, the police department wrote on Facebook. Lets show his family and fellow officers that his service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Browns funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Maranatha Assembly of God Church in Forest Lake, with visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the church and one hour prior to the service.

Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Mattson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Weve now reached the heist stage of the great Labubu craze of 2025.

The Chinese plush toy monsters have inexplicably taken the luxury world by storm, often adorned in Cartier jewels or dangling from Birkins. The furry creatures gained popularity in 2018 but soared to the status of global viral trend at the beginning of this summer, owned by everyone from Cher to Rihanna to David Beckham.

More from Robb Report

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Eventually, a black market emerged for resellers of the viral doll. Once widely available in blind boxes for around $30, Labubus are now a scarce commodity as rare as Beanie Babies in the 90s. In June, a 4-foot-tall version of the toy even sold for $170,000 at the first official Labubu Auction in Beijing.

As popularity only continues to grow, some resellers are willing to risk it all. On August 6, around 1:30 am, four people broke into One Stop Sales in Los Angeles County and stole thousands of dollars worth of Labubus. The store shared security footage on Instagram, in which the thieves can be seen shattering glass and fleeing the scene with boxes of inventory.

Local officials told The Cut that the boxes of stolen collectibles were valued at approximately $7,000, while the store estimated that the cost was significantly higher, even setting up a GoFundMe claiming the goods were worth over $25,000. Some of their Labubu stock retailed for as much as $500 apiece.

Just a week later and 30 minutes away from the initial heist, another Labubu burglary was reported at a home in Upland, Californiaseemingly by an unrelated band of thieves, according to The Cut. Detectives from the Chino Police Department recovered 14 boxes of the furry toys stolen from local warehouses and amounting to $30,000.

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Police also found evidence that the thieves planned to resell and ship the merchandise across the country, a growing trend amidst the Labubu mania. The recovered property was quickly returned to its rightful owners, according to ABC News.

Once a niche collectible, Labubu has clawed its way to the upper echelons of luxuryand now, apparently, (slightly) organized crime.

Sign up for RobbReports's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Former Brevard County teacher Melissa Calhoun is speaking publicly for the first time since her dismissal, renewing calls from parents, students, and union leaders to have her reinstated.

Calhoun, who taught at Satellite High School, addressed the Brevard County School Board Tuesday night.

She was met with claps and cheers from supporters as she took the podium to share her side of the story. Its my hope that tonight I can offer a sound reflection of education to both you and the 73 newly appointed teachers  credibility matters, Calhoun told board members.

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Her termination came after she addressed a female-born student by their preferred male name without documented parental consent, as required under a new Florida law.

Last month, the Florida Department of Education announced that Calhoun would be allowed to keep her teaching license but would serve a one-year probation.

Following her removal from the classroom, parents and students organized multiple protests in her support.

Despite the license decision, the district has decided not to reinstate her at this time. In a statement, the superintendent said, I believe it is appropriate that the full term of that probation be completed before any consideration of employment.

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Union leaders say the districts decision is a loss for students.

At the end of the day, teachers in the state of Florida just go to school every day to give their best, to give their all, said Andrew Spar, President of the Florida Education Association. Ms. Calhoun admitted that she made a mistake and immediately corrected that mistake. She finished the year at Satellite High School, and the results from her students exams show what a highly effective teacher she is. Ultimately, it is her students that are losing out, said Anthony Colucci, President of the Brevard Federation of Teachers.

It was the first time Calhoun spoke before the board.

It was good to finally speak my piece, she said. Instead of being the one told about the things Ive done, I wanted to encourage them to take positive action.

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The teachers union says it is exploring legal options to have Calhoun reinstated. For now, Calhoun says shes focused on supporting her students however she can.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
HOLMES COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Its been about two weeks since Governor Ron DeSantis signed an executive order officially suspending Holmes County Commissioner Brandon Newsom.

Governor DeSantis signs executive order to suspend Holmes County Commissioner

Newsom is now facing another suspension, this time from the Florida Department of Financial Services.

Newsoms suspension as County Commissioner stemmed back to his private bail bond business.

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In June, Newsom turned himself in at the Holmes County jail and was released less than 30 minutes later on conditional release.

Holmes County commissioner facing two felony charges | mypanhandle.com(opens in a new tab)

In July, he was charged with two third-degree felonies relating to his bail bonds business.

Now, Newsoms bail bond agent license has been suspended.

Our newspaper partner, the Holmes County Advertiser, first discovered the suspension.

They also reported that Newsom pleaded not guilty on both counts and is set to appear in Holmes County court on Oct. 1 for pre-trial proceedings.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
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:

Jayne Wu, left, and Shigetoshi Eda work on a biosensor device that detects PTSD. Credit: University of Tennessee

Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's Tickle College of Engineering and UT Institute of Agriculture are partnering with technology development firm CFD Research Corporation to create a groundbreaking device that uses biomarkers in the blood to diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder and other complex conditions.

About 6% of Americansincluding nearly 30% of military veterans who have experienced combat, natural disasters and other traumatic eventshave experienced PTSD, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Current methods for diagnosing the disorder are highly subjective, relying on a patient's ability and willingness to report their symptoms and address past trauma.

"With PTSD, diagnosis is complicated. Every patient's condition is different," said Jayne Wu, a professor in the Min H. Kao Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

Wu and Shigetoshi Eda, a professor in the School of Natural Resources, learned to detect PTSD in humans using a handheld biosensor they originally developed to help dairy farmers quickly diagnose diseases affecting their herds. The device uses AC electrokinetics-integrated capacitive, or AiCAP, a technology the researchers created that applies a specific AC signal to move bioparticles toward sensors that identify disease-causing microbes.

Since then, Wu and Eda have continued working on the biosensor. The patented system can now identify a wide array of biomarkers to diagnose numerous diseases ranging from bovine tuberculosis to human influenza.

Innovation through collaboration

CFD Research reached out to Wu and Eda in 2023. The company was working with the U.S. military to create a low-cost, minimally invasive diagnostic tool for PTSD. The research team recognized that the AiCAP biosensor array, with its unique ability to identify numerous biomarkers simultaneously, could provide a solution.

Unlike some illnesses such as the flu that have a single diagnostic biomarker, PTSD is associated with many biomarkers, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates and nucleic acids like DNA. Using AiCAP technology, Wu and Eda worked with CFD Research researcher David Gaddes to develop a sensor that can identify more than a dozen PTSD-related biomarkers from a single blood sample.

"Usually, you need a different detector for each type of biomarker," Eda said. "Jayne's approach within AiCAP allows you to detect different types of biomarkers using a single device."

The ability to identify multiple biomarkers with a single device is a major boost to multiomics, a scientific approach that looks at different types of biological data simultaneously to get a complete picture of how living organisms function.

"We're hoping that this would be the first multiomic point-of-care biosensor," Gaddes said. "That means it's something that's very easy for a doctor to run and operatethey put a sample in, they get an answer out."

With that in mind, the researchers are developing a user-friendly display system for the device that will simplify data interpretation, aiding early intervention by enabling family physicians to make diagnoses without relying on offsite specialists. The team aims to make the new device widely accessible by keeping it small, portable and affordable.

Advancing personalized medicine

The researchers are working toward obtaining approval for the device from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and expanding the technology to diagnose other conditions such as organ damage, cancer and sepsis. They say the partnership between the university and CFD Research is instrumental for tailoring AiCAP technology to human medical settings and scaling production so the device can be deployed quickly once it has FDA approval.

"It's very valuable for industry and university researchers to collaborate," Gaddes said. "University researchers are coming up with technologies that are new, or have new applications, and demonstrating that they work. Companies like CFD Research can then come in and develop the technology into an actual product."

Gaddes presented the team's device at the Military Health System Research Symposium in Orlando, Florida, in October 2024. He said it was very well received, with multiple attendees asking to help prototype it or be alerted as soon as it becomes commercially available.

"What I'm excited about on this particular project is the ability to do fast multiomic sensing," said Gaddes. "From a less technological standpoint, I'm excited about making a product which improves the diagnoses of complex diseases like PTSD."

Wu said that although further research is needed to establish clear correlations between biomarkers and treatment plans, "PTSD is a great example to demonstrate the potential benefits of our sensor array in furthering personalized medicine. Multiomics sensing can promote holistic treatment approaches for PTSD by providing a biological foundation to tailor and optimize integrative whole-person care."




NEED TO KNOW

A 3-year-old Colorado girl was killed after the K-9 living at her house attacked her, say authorities

Her father, Burlington Police Chief Nathan Hill, was housing the dog after the Cheyenne County Sheriff's Department donated it after their K-9 program ended

The German Shepherd was euthanized after the attack





The 3-year-old daughter of a Colorado police chief was killed in an attack by a former K-9 her family was caring for, according to authorities.

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On Monday, Aug. 11, deputies responded to a 911 call in Kit Carson about a child who had been attacked by a dog, according to a press release from the Kit Carson County Sheriffs Office.

Sheriff Travis Belden and Deputy Darrin Newberry arrived on scene a minute later and found an unresponsive 3-year-old and her mother in the back of the residence, according to the release.

By then, the dog, a German Shepherd, had been secured in a kennel.

EMS rushed the child to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The dog was taken to the Burlington Dog Pound, where it was later euthanized.



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According to the Kit Carson Sheriffs Office, the dog was used as a narcotics detection dog with the Cheyenne County Sheriffs Office.

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The dog was recently taken out of service when the Cheyenne County Sheriffs Office ended its K-9 program.

The dog was not trained in any kind of bite work to include protection or apprehension, the release says.

Cheyenne County donated the dog to the Burlington Police Department, but the dog was not actively in service, according to the release.

Burlington Police Chief Nathan Hill was housing the dog at his residence at this time, it says.

This is a very tragic situation, affecting the community as a whole, the department said in the release.

Authorities are continuing to investigate.



Read the original article on People
LATTA, S.C. (WBTW)  Former Latta police chief Christopher Bryant was fired from his job last month after repeatedly submitting false paperwork to the states Criminal Justice Academy, documents obtained by News13 show.

Bryant met with the Law Enforcement Training Council, where a vote was scheduled on withdrawal of his certification.

The town on Friday named Allan Rogers as its next chief following a 35-year career at the Dillon County Sheriffs Office.

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Bryant and six others in his department were disciplined in late June over unpaid town fines totaling $39,900 related to uncertified officers performing law enforcement duties alone  a violation of state law.

During Bryants June 25 hearing, officials concluded that on numerous occasions he submitted false paperwork attesting he knew uncertified officers were not to work alone but allowed them to anyway.

He also allowed uncertified officers to handle firearms despite meeting state qualifications and lied about them carrying out traffic stops, documents show.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel, who is chairman of the training council, ordered Bryants certification revoked on June 26.

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* * *

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.
A former teaching assistant in Massachusetts has been sentenced to jail after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old student at a local cemetery in 2020.

Matthew Parris, 34, a former paraprofessional at Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School in Easton, was sentenced Monday in Fall River Superior Court to serve 2 1/2 years in the House of Correction followed by 3 years of supervised probation, Bristol Count District Attorney Thomas Quinn said Wednesday.

This defendant took advantage of his position of authority as a para-professional to sexually assault the victim, who was a student in one of his classes, Quinn said. The defendant deserves to serve time and register as a sex offender.

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Parris is required to register as a sex offender, wear a GPS bracelet, is prohibited from employment that would put him in routine contact with minors under 16, and can have no unsupervised contact with children under the age of 16.

Judge Susan Sullivan handed down his sentence. Prosecutors had recommended a state prison sentence of 2 to 4 years followed by probation.

Parris was convicted on Aug. 1 of two counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over the age of 14, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in state prison, Quinn said. Parris was acquitted of rape charges involving a second student.

File photo. Matthew Parris, a former paraprofessional at Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School in Easton, is shown in court in March 2020.

The sexual assault happened while Parris, then 29, was working as a paraprofessional at the Easton vocational school.

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The charges against him were originally issued in Bristol and Plymouth counties. The cases were consolidated and tried together in Fall River Superior Court.

In March 2020, the victim, a 15-year-old female student at Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School in Easton, reported that she had been previously sexually assaulted by Parris, then working as a paraprofessional in her shop class.

The victim reported that in February 2020, Parris began messaging her on Instagram indicating that she was attractive and he started making sexual comments, Quinn said.

Parris also instructed the victim to delete all messages, prosecutors said.

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During the February 2020 school vacation, Parris arranged to meet the victim at a cemetery in East Bridgewater. Prosecutors said he and the victim met and went to the back of the cemetery.

Once in that remote location, Parris indecently touched the victim without her consent, Quinn said.

During this encounter, the victim connected via a video call with a friend, who was able to see the victim and Parris together.

Quinn said Wednesday that he supports proposed legislation that would increase penalties for anyone in a position of trust who supervises a child and indecently assaults them.

The legislation would also make it a crime if one in a position of trust with a child engages in sexual intercourse when the child is 16 or 17 years old, Quinn said.

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Consent would no longer be a defense, the district attorney said. These statutory changes are necessary to hold those individuals accountable who sexually assault children they have supervision of.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A former MMA fighter was found guilty on Wednesday after he punched and kicked his 12-year-old son, leaving him with a broken wrist in 2024.

Ricquan Thomas, 42, was found guilty of felony child abuse after a trial that began on Monday.

Ricquan Thomas_Mugshot Courtesy of DeSoto County D.A.s Office

The district attorneys office said on July 12 of last year, Thomas, a former MMA fighter in New Mexico, kicked and punched his 12-year-old son in the face, torso, arms, legs, and back.

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They said the assault caused Thomass child to have bruising, swelling, and a broken wrist when his child fell, and Thomas did not seek medical treatment for his son.

According to reports, the childs mother, a traveling nurse, was working out of state and contacted Child Protective Services after hearing about the injuries.

The office said CPS removed the child from Thomass care until the 12-year-olds mother could return to Mississippi.

They said the next day, the mother took the child to receive treatment at Le Bonheur Childrens Hospital.

Burglars trek through sewer to steal $3.7k worth of Nikes

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According to the office, in 2024, Thomas had 10 children who did not live with him.

The office said the victim has multiple special needs and was visiting his father for part of the summer after years of estrangement.

Since the incident, Thomas now has 11 children.

The district attorneys office said Thomas was taken into custody and will be sentenced at a later date.

They said a felony child abuse conviction carries a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of life imprisonment.

The jury acquitted Thomas of a separate charge of child abuse stemming from an additional allegation that he kicked the child.

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Mississippi murder suspect captured while hiding in Memphis home

This case was investigated by the Horn Lake Police Department with assistance from Hearts Child Advocacy Center in Southaven and Child Protective Services.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Jersey City pastor who resigned in June has been charged with sexually assaulting two children while he was working as a youth pastor at an embattled Colorado church over two decades ago.

Robert Anthony Tony Langston, 60, who served as lead pastor at Tapestry Church in Jersey City, is accused of assaulting two members of Landmark Tabernacle in Denver. At least one incident occurred in 1998, and both victims were under the age of 15.

Langston, of Jersey City, was arrested in Denver on July 23 and charged with sexual assault on a child as part of a pattern of abuse by one in a position of trust and criminal attempt to commit sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, court records show.

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Langston is accused of molesting a 14-year-old member of Landmark TabernacleDenver as part of a pattern of abuse that started in Denver and continued after he left the church. The victim, who had an abusive situation at home, was groomed by Langston, according to Carolyn Hoyt, a close friend of the victim and a former member of Landmark TabernacleDenver. The victim accompanied Langston and his wife as they evangelized across the U.S. and eventually settled in Jersey City, Hoyt said.

The victim, whose name was redacted in court documents, told investigators he was initially molested in Langstons home after the youth pastor took a liking to him and started acting as his mentor, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

The victim continued to be groped and assaulted by the pastor after following him to New Jersey, the affidavit states. There, Langston founded Tapestry Church with his wife 22 years ago.

The Hudson County Prosecutors Office did not return a request from NJ Advance Media for comment about whether Langston has ever been investigated by the prosecutors office.

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Hoyt told NJ Advance Media the victim was very scared to report the abuse because the church is very anti-homosexuality.

The second victim, whose name was also redacted in court documents, told investigators that Langston touched him inappropriately during a conversation in the pastors office at Landmark TabernacleDenver, according to the affidavit. Langston allegedly appeared to prefer boys in the church who had absent fathers or were raised by their grandparents, the affidavit states.

Landmark TabernacleDenver did not return a request from NJ Advance Media for comment.

Langston announced on June 29  about a month before he was charged in Denver  his plans to resign from his role at Tapestry Church in Jersey City and retire from ministry.

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In his address, which was posted on Facebook by SpiritualAbuse.org, Langston said he planned to continue to stay involved in the Jersey City church, which would become a division of Freedom Church.

However, Freedom Church, which declined to comment on the charges against Langston, said it is a new ministry that does not involve Langston.

My Freedom Church, Inc. understands that the allegations against Robert Langston, former pastor of Tapestry Church, concern his association with a church in Colorado, the church said in a statement to NJ Advance Media. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for My Freedom Church, Inc. to comment or speculate on any legal matters occurring in another state, involving another church, and involving an individual not affiliated with My Freedom Church, Inc.

According to the affidavit, a former pastor at Landmark TabernacleDenver told investigators that he knew about the abuse in 1998 but didnt report it.

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One of the victims told investigators that the former pastor allegedly gave Langston time to gracefully leave the church but told him that he could no longer serve as a youth pastor there, it was stated in the affidavit.

Hoyt said the families of the victims were told at the time not to contact the police and that the church would handle it internally. They wanted to help Tony through the process [of redemption], Hoyt said.

In 2005, Langston was charged by the 9th District Court in Montgomery County, Texas with second-degree indecency with a child sexual contact. However, the charge was later dismissed, online court records show.

Langstons preliminary hearing in Denver was scheduled for Aug. 11, according to court documents. A mandatory protection order states he must stay at least 100 yards away from the victims and anyone under the age of 18.

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Other members of Landmark Tabernacle-Denver have faced similar charges to Langston. Jesse Klockenbrink was convicted on charges of attempted sexual assault and child abuse, state records show. He is now a registered sex offender in Colorado.

The attorney representing Langston could not be reached for comment.

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Rebecca Heath may be reached at RHeath@njadvancemedia.com.
Former Oklahoma Rep. Debbie Blackburn, a prominent historical preservationist and affordable housing advocate, has died after a decades-long career in public service.

Blackburn's influence stretched across the state, from her legislative work representing House District 88 in Oklahoma City to her passion for historic buildings. She was willing to fight for what's right, said her husband, Bob Blackburn, the former longtime executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society.

"[She believed] we should be engaged," Bob Blackburn said. "We should work together. We should always keep in mind that there is hope for the future. If people are acting with character, with integrity, with honesty, the world can be a better place."

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Blackburn, 74, died peacefully in her home on Sunday, Aug. 10, after suffering from different health issues for years, her husband said.

She was a very passionate person, and her public service demonstrated that, said Melvena Heisch, a friend of Debbie Blackburn since 1970.

"She was one of the hardest working people I've ever seen," Heisch said. "When a project or an issue caught her attention, she was in 110%."

Debbie Blackburn's passion was historic preservation, affordable housing

Blackburn graduated high school in Woodward in 1969 before attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University, formerly known as Southwestern State College. She taught history for four years at Altus High School.

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She married Bob Blackburn in 1978 before moving to Oklahoma City, where the couple bought and restored three historic homes in Heritage Hills. That's where they raised their son, Beau.

"She loved old buildings," said Bob Blackburn. "She understood their importance. She understood the history behind them and the stories."

In the 1980s, Debbie Blackburn served on the board of what's now known as the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma. In 1988, she served as co-chair of a successful campaign to convince voters to approve a partial penny sales tax for additional fire and police protection.

In 1989, she co-founded the Paseo Development Corporation dedicated to affordable housing the preserving historic neighborhoods.

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Jessica Thompson, who serves as board president of the Neighborhood Alliance and worked with Blackburn on the Positively Paseo Board, said Blackburn was a visionary who embodied the principle of "being the change you wish to see in the world."

"She saw potential in neighborhoods others overlooked  places that have since flourished and thrived," Thompson said. "Her impact through the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma can be felt in every community she touched. Through her work with Neighborhood Alliance, she understood the needs of residents in our neighborhoods."

Bob Blackburn said his wife believed housing is the key to ending the cycle of poverty.

Debbie Blackburn's House District 88 predecessor Linda Larason convinced Debbie Blackburn to run for office in 1994. Bob Blackburn said she was reluctant to run, but soon became known as "The Bulldog" by her legislative colleagues because "once she got hold of a bill, if it was the right thing to do, she was not backing down."

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During her 12 year stint in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Debbie Blackburn was most proud of her legislation that created the Oklahoma historic preservation tax credit, providing incentives for the rehabilitation of historic buildings. The tax credit led to the rehabilitation of the Skirvin Hotel and First National Center in downtown Oklahoma City, along with the Mayo Hotel in Tulsa.

At the time, Heisch, who was the deputy state historic preservation officer, assisted Debbie Blackburn with samples of legislation from other places to craft the bill.

"She was so proud of that," Heisch said. "It was a huge accomplishment for people statewide."

Debbie Blackburn served in the state House of Representatives as a Democrat for District 88 encompassing parts of Oklahoma City from 1994 to 2006 before reaching her term limit. During that time, she had served as chairwoman of the House Education Appropriations and Budget subcommittee and the House Banking committee.

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"Government is the art of compromise, and Debbie did not understand the word compromise," Bob Blackburn said. "She was either right, or it was wrong."

Debbie Blackburn was 'persuasive in all the right ways' in the Oklahoma Legislature

Oklahoma historian Bob Burke said Debbie Blackburn was a true example of a citizen legislator because she had no agenda.

"She listened to people's problems, and her integrity was unquestioned," Burke said.

She authored the legislation behind the 25-year-old Oklahoma College Savings Plan, allowing taxpayers to start higher education savings plans with tax-deferred interest earnings through Oklahoma 529.

Randy Beutler, former president of Southwestern State University and a past state representative, said he served in the House with Debbie Blackburn for six years. On social media, he called her smart, kind and passionate about a better Oklahoma.

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"Her work on public education is beyond reproach," he said. "I had the great honor to present to her the Southwestern Oklahoma State University Distinguished Alumni Award in 2020."

Cal Hobson, who served in the House before leading the state Senate while Debbie Blackburn was a legislator, said at a time when there were fewer women serving in the Legislature, she broke new ground and rose to an important position through her determination and tenacity.

"She was very persuasive in all the right ways about getting a lot of men who had the key positions, the speaker, the floor leader, whatever, to be willing to hear her bills and be willing to know she was going to be back in the session until her policies were pretty much on the governor's desk to be signed," Hobson said.

Debbie Blackburn 'had a big heart'

Heisch said she wants everyone to know Debbie Blackburn was a person of high integrity and decency.

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"She had a big heart," Heisch said. "You'd look long and hard to find anybody that was as devoted to public service as Debbie Blackburn."

Bob Blackburn, who spent 41 years leading the Oklahoma Historical Society and authored dozens of books about state history, said his wife was part of his strength and inspiration and remained one of his biggest fans, even in her final days.

At 73 years old, Bob Blackburn said he's going to continue to work because, "I'm not going to let her down."

Debbie and Bob Blackburn were entwined in everything they did, Hobson said. They stood out as a brilliant pair who complemented each other beautifully, he added.

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"I just can't remember another couple in my time [in the Legislature] where both made such contributions to not only what was going on in Oklahoma at that time, but their work has survived them, and that's really her legacy," Hobson said.

In addition to her husband of 47 years, Debbie Blackburn is survived by her son, Beau, and his wife, Tori, and grandsons Bodhi and Waylon; sister Sheryl Brenbook, and husband Bruce, and nieces Rachel and Julia; and brother's wife, Rhonda, and nieces Stacy and Summer.

A service to celebrate Debbie Blackburn's life will be held at the Oklahoma Historical Center in Oklahoma City at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 17.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Former Oklahoma Rep. Debbie Blackburn dies at 74
A judge in the South American nation of Peru has ordered the countrys ex-president, Martin Vizcarra, to be held in pre-trial detention over bribery allegations.

In a hearing on Wednesday, Judge Jorge Chavez ordered Vizcarra jailed for five months, saying he is a flight risk. He stands accused of accepting bribes during his tenure as governor of the Moquegua region 11 years ago.

Vizcarra is the fifth ex-president to be detained in Peru, which has been rocked by numerous scandals and political crises over the last several years. Peru has had six presidents since 2018.

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For his part, Vizcarra has denied the charges against him, stating that they are a form of political persecution. He had planned to run for president again in 2026.

A judge had turned down a previous request to detain him in June, but the public ministry insisted that he was a flight risk and appealed the decision. His lawyers have said that he will seek to appeal his detention.

Three other ex-presidents, Alejandro Toledo, Ollanta Humala and Pedro Castillo, are currently being held in a special facility built for former leaders of the country in a police base in the capital of Lima.





Vizcarra, who was investigated and removed from office by Congress in 2020, will likely join them there. Critics have accused Perus Congress of launching scurrilous impeachment efforts against political rivals, using vague charges such as moral incapacity.

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The facility first housed former President Alberto Fujimori, who was sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2009 for human rights abuses committed during his period of dictatorial rule. He was controversially pardoned in 2023, in defiance of an order from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, and died of cancer the following year.





President Dina Boluarte, who came into office after former President Castillo was imprisoned after trying to dissolve Congress, signed a law earlier today offering amnesty to government security officials and aligned groups who committed rights abuses during the decades-long campaign against the Shining Path armed group.

Rights groups condemned the amnesty bill as a form of impunity for serious abuses.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A former Port Allen mayor was arrested on multiple charges after allegations of sexual misconduct with a juvenile.

Derek Lewis, 64, of Addis, was charged with third-degree rape, indecent behavior with a juvenile and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

After further investigation, West Baton Rouge deputies arrested Wyennetti Williams, 67, of Port Allen, on Thursday. Williams was booked on charges of contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

Derek Lewis (West Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office)

The sheriffs office said an investigation started Monday after detectives got a complaint regarding allegations. Lewis is accused of giving alcohol to the juvenile before engaging in indecent behavior.

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Lewis was previously sentenced in June 2012 after pleading guilty to violating the RICO Act while serving as mayor. The corruption case was tied to an operation that involved several mayors in the Baton Rouge region.

An investigation is ongoing.

5 from Louisiana, including police chiefs, accused of visa fraud scheme

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.




NEED TO KNOW

A former postal worker in Torrance, Calif., plead guilty to one count conspiracy to commit bank fraud on Monday, Aug. 11

Mary Ann Magdamit worked as a mail carrier at the Torrance Main Post Office, and now faces up to 30 years in federal prison

Magdamit, 31, stole checks, debit and credit cards from the mail from at least 2022 through July 2025, and used the money on luxury goods, trips to Turks and Caicos, and Aruba





A former California postal worker, who stole checks, debit and credit cards from the mail over a period of at least three years, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud on Monday, Aug. 11.

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Mary Ann Magdamit, who worked as a letter carrier at the Torrance, Calif., Main Post Office, began stealing mail with checks, debit and credit cards and personal information in at least 2022, through July 2025, the U.S. Attorney's Office Central District of California said in a statement, citing her plea agreement and court documents. She later activated the stolen cards online to make purchases and sold some to co-conspirators, federal prosecutors said.

The former postal worker, 31, was arrested by federal agents on July 1 and has been in federal custody since then.

PEOPLE has reached out to the Torrance Police Department for comment.

Magdamit had her co-conspirators cash the stolen checks using fake identity documents, according to federal prosecutors. "Federally insured banks and credit unions were victimized in this scheme," the Justice Department said.

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https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Magdamit was caught flaunting the fruits of her crime with a photo she shared on social media, displaying a thick stack of cash, before using it to pay for lavish items and trips to Turks and Caicos and Aruba, prosecutors said. Also among the luxury goods purchased was a Rolex watch.

U.S. Justice Department Mary Ann Magdamit's spread of cash she shared on social media Mary Ann Magdamit's spread of cash she shared on social media

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After a search of her home in December 2024, authorities seized 133 stolen credit and debit cards, 16 U.S. Department of Treasury checks, and a loaded ghost gun. She was arrested on July 1 after federal agents discovered she was still using the stolen credit cards. That same day, agents searched her apartment again and found more stolen cards.

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A ghost gun refers to a gun that "lacks a serial number by which it can be identified and that is typically assembled by the user (as from purchased or homemade components)," per Merriam Webster.

Magdamit faces up to 30 years in federal prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 27.



Read the original article on People
Former Scottish Parliament presiding officer Sir George Reid has died at the age of 86.

Sir George had already had a long career as a prominent journalist and SNP politician before taking on the role of chairing the parliament's debates in 2003.

He was first elected to Westminster in 1974 as the SNP MP for Clackmannan and East Stirlingshire, holding the seat until 1979.

After working for the International Red Cross for 12 years, he returned to politics in 1995 and was elected to the Scottish Parliament four years later. He stood down in 2007.

Sir George with the Queen and then first minister Jack McConnell in 2004 [Getty Images]

First Minister John Swinney led tributes to Sir George, crediting him as being one of the voices that brought him into politics as a teenager.

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The SNP leader said he was "desperately saddened by the loss of the remarkable George Reid".

Sir George was born in Tullibody, near Alloa in Clackmannanshire, in 1939.

He graduated from St Andrews University and later studied international affairs, humanitarian law and conflict resolution in the US, Switzerland and Sweden.

He worked as a reporter on the Daily Express in the 1960s and was later a TV producer and presenter for both the BBC and STV.

He became an SNP MP in 1974 before losing his seat in 1979.

For 12 years between his time at Westminster and Holyrood, he worked worldwide in wars and disasters as a director of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent in Geneva.

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When the new Scottish Parliament was reconvened in 1999, Sir George was elected as the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife.

He stood to be the first presiding officer of the new parliament, a role similar to the Speaker in the House of Commons, but was beaten by veteran Lib Dem Sir David Steel.

However, Sir George took up the post in 2003, resigning his membership of the SNP so that he could be seen to be impartial.

During his time as presiding officer, he oversaw the completion of the new Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood, which opened in 2004.

Sir George was passionate about Clackmannanshire, saying that he could trace his ancestors in the area back to 1650.

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But alongside his devotion to the place of his birth he was always focused on international interests.

He held senior editorial positions at both STV and Granada as well as his work with the Red Cross in Geneva.

Sir George, who was knighted in 2012 for services to Scottish politics and public life, was on record as saying it was in his job at the Red Cross that he did "far more good than at any other time in my life".

He is survived by Daphne, his wife of 57 years, daughter Morag and her husband, and five grandchildren.

Holyrood flags lowered

The Scottish Parliament's current presiding officer Alison Johnstone said: "He'll be remembered not only for bringing the Holyrood construction project to completion, but for building confidence and ambition in our young parliament.

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"A proud son of Clackmannanshire and an internationalist by outlook, he was determined to put Holyrood on the map at home and abroad, and very much succeeded.

"By the time he left office, Holyrood was established at the centre of public life in Scotland and over a million people had visited to see for themselves the new parliament in action."

Flags at Holyrood have been lowered as a mark of respect and a book of condolence will open shortly at Holyrood and online.

First Minister John Swinney said: "His passion for Scotland, his principled internationalist world view and his empathy for the plight of people everywhere, made him a voice that could not be ignored across five decades," the SNP leader said.

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"As a journalist, in the 1980s, George was Michael Buerk's producer for the historic coverage of the Ethiopian famine that inspired Band Aid," Swinney said.

"As was typical of George, he could not simply observe and report. He always sought to make a difference, taking on a senior role in the Red Cross and Red Crescent in the 1980s and 1990s."

He added: "Scotland, and the world, is richer for the life of George Reid and poorer for his passing."
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 from Pexels

As the nation gears up for the rollout of an updated COVID-19 vaccine, a new study shows the economic benefits of continued broad vaccination in adults.

In fact, the country would ultimately save more money than it would spend on vaccinating every person over age 65 with a single dose of an updated mRNA vaccine against coronavirus, the study concludes.

That's because of the power of the vaccine to prevent deaths, hospitalizations, short- and long-term illness and lost productivity such as lost workdays in this age group, the researchers report, based on a computer model. The model focused on people without immunocompromising conditions or medications.

Meanwhile, in middle-aged adults from 50 to 64 years old, broad vaccination is a good economic investment, the study concludes. Even vaccinating healthy young adults age 18 to 49 would fall within accepted limits for cost-effectiveness under certain conditions.

The new study, published in JAMA Network Open, comes from a team led by a pair of University of Michigan researchers who have done many vaccine cost-effectiveness studies under contract with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. The paper includes multiple CDC researchers as co-authors.

Lisa Prosser, Ph.D., is the lead author of the new paper and co-leader with David Hutton. Ph.D. of the broader vaccine cost-effectiveness research effort. She is a professor of pediatrics in the U-M Medical School and of health management and policy at the U-M School of Public Health, where Hutton is also a professor.

"We show that a single dose of 20232024 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine averted substantial illness and death across age groups, and that this led to economically attractive results for both of the older age groups across wide variations in the parameters of the model," said Prosser. "However, we also find that a second dose in non-immunocompromised adults under age 64 was not economically favorable, though a second dose in adults over age 65 was."

She notes that second doses have been recommended for older adults and those of any age with certain conditions for both of the last two COVID-19 vaccination seasons.

The study did not include data from people under the age of 18, because of the lack of data.

In general, the study finds that broad vaccination could prevent 391 hospitalizations and 43 deaths from severe COVID-19 for every 100,000 people over age 65 vaccinated. For those age 18 to 49, those numbers would be lower, with 39 hospitalizations and 1 death prevented for every 100,000 vaccinated.

The number of cases of COVID-19, of any severity, that could be prevented through broad vaccination was about the same for all three age groups, between 7,600 and 8,900 for every 100,000 adults vaccinated.

Prosser notes that declining COVID hospitalization rates may contribute to less favorable economic outcomes in future analyses.

Current COVID-19 situation

CDC data shows that more than 47,000 Americans had COVID-19 listed on their death certificates in 2024, with two-thirds of them having COVID-19 listed as the underlying cause and 34% having it listed as a contributing cause. That is down sharply from the first years of the pandemic, and down substantially from 2023.

Although the vast majority of U.S. adults have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine since they became available in early 2021, the percentage receiving the updated vaccine in recent years has dropped markedly.

CDC data show that 28% of adults over age 65 taking part in traditional Medicare had received the 2024-2025 vaccine as of this past February. As of April 2025, 23% of adults of all ages told surveyors they had received the 2024-2025 vaccine.

Previous research and underlying model

Earlier this year, Prosser and colleagues published a paper in the journal Vaccine evaluating the cost-effectiveness of the national investment in testing, buying and delivering the first vaccines . In all, they show, this national vaccine strategy carried out in 2020 and 2021 more than paid for itself after just one year.

Even without counting lost productivity, the national COVID-19 vaccine effort saved money for most adult age groups purely by avoiding medical costs, the study concluded. Overall, among all adults over age 40, the nation saved more in avoided medical costs than it spent on the vaccine effort.

The U-M team has presented findings about the cost-effectiveness of several vaccines to meetings of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices, which creates recommendations for vaccine use.

The model used in all of the team's studies includes everything from the cost of the vaccine itself, to home or lab tests for the virus, to the likelihood of suffering any level of COVID-19 illness or vaccine reaction, to the typical cost of receiving care at any level of illness, to the number of days of work lost for different levels of illness. The researchers included post-COVID conditions, also called Long COVID or PASC for Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19.

The model also incorporates data on actual rates and severity of illness, and death rates, for different age groups.

The model uses conservative estimates, so the size of the savings may actually be even larger than the studies report, Prosser notes. For instance, the model does not include the lost productivity of people who took time off work to care for a sick adult family member, patients' out-of-pocket costs for treatment, or transportation to get to medical care.

Prosser notes that the current CDC recommendation is for everyone over the age of 6 months to get at least one dose of the current COVID-19, though the CDC's recommendation for children without an immune-compromising condition changed this summer to include shared decision-making between the child's parent/guardian and a health care professional.

For people who are age 65 and older, or immunocompromised because of a health condition or treatment, the CDC recommends a second dose of the current vaccine six months after the first.

More information: Lisa A. Prosser et al, Cost-Effectiveness of 2023-2024 COVID-19 Vaccination in US Adults, JAMA Network Open (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.23688 Journal information: JAMA Network Open
SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A former bank worker in Springdale accused of stealing money from customer accounts has waived his arraignment, according to court documents.

Christopher Timos, 28, was arrested on July 16 by the Springdale Police Department for one count of financial identity fraud, one count of computer fraud and one count of theft of property.

Christopher Timos, 28 (Courtesy: Washington County Detention Center)

Timos waived his arraignment, according to a filing dated Aug. 5. His arraignment was originally scheduled for Aug. 13.

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His trial was set for Oct. 13 at 8:30 a.m. at the Washington County Courthouse.

The Federal Reserve said last month in an order of prohibition that Timos was employed by Arvest Bank in Springdale from November 2020 until his termination on March 21, 2025.

Former University of Arkansas professor pleads not guilty to possessing CSAM

According to the Federal Reserve, between Dec. 1, 2023, and March 20, 2025, Timos engaged in conduct that violated banking laws and regulations, involving the unauthorized use of customer funds totaling $42,731.28.

Under the terms of the Federal Reserves consent order, Timos is now not allowed to work for or be involved with any bank or financial company unless the Federal Reserve gives special permission. Any violation of this order could lead to civil or criminal penalties, the document said.

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The order was issued without Timos admitting or denying the allegations but with his consent, avoiding a formal hearing or prolonged litigation, according to the document.

Timos is free on a $15,000 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 KNWA FOX24.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Officials with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas said a former Stone County chief deputy received a federal prison sentence on Tuesday.

Officials said 40-year-old Zachary Hunter Alexander of Lakeview received a 33-month sentence for selling a stolen gun and extortion under color of official right.

Former Stone County deputy facing charges of bank fraud, extortion

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Extortion under color of official right is when a public official, with knowledge that a payment or benefit is intended to influence their official actions, accepts or agrees to accept that payment or benefit.

A grand jury indicted Alexander in May 2022 on an 11-count indictment. Officials said count one and counts eight through 11 of the indictment charged Alexander with bank fraud, count two charged the former deputy with selling a stolen firearm, and counts three through seven charged him with extortion under color of official right.

Alexander pleaded guilty in August 2023 to selling a stolen firearm and extortion under color of official right.

Woman accused of deadly romance scams facing theft, fraud charges in Arkansas

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Investigators said that Alexander received $1,465.90 from the Stone County Sheriffs Foundation for two sniper rifles in May 2019. He then sold one of the rifles and kept the money.

Investigators continued that in February 2020, Alexander received $3,809.10 from the Stone County Treasurer to reimburse a pawn shop for rifles, ammunition and equipment. He then had the owner of the pawnshop cash the check and turn the money over to him.

As part of his sentence, Alexander must pay $153,786.84 in restitution and will serve two years of supervised release when his prison term is completed. The restitution includes personal items Alexander purchased with the sheriffs office credit card and other acts of check kiting, officials said.

Former Pulaski County Clerks Office employee arrested after being accused of voter fraud

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There is no parole in the federal prison 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 KARK.
A Republican whose 2012 presidential bid was thwarted by a viral mental lapse on a debate stage has become a top advocate for a powerful drug that made him see the devil.

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry says ibogainean illegal substance that derives from a Central African shrubs roothas changed his life for the better, transforming his brain from showing a slight atrophy to now appearing like that of a 40-year-old man.

The iboga shrub, where the drug ibogaine comes from, has been used in ceremonies in Gabon for centuries. Those who consume it experience an altered consciousness, inducing visions that enable them to communicate with the spirits in the eyes of the Gabonese. / Jorge Fernandez / LightRocket via Getty Images

Perry, 73, told The New York Times it is now his lifes mission to push for the drugs legalization so others can benefit from its literally mind-altering effects, particularly combat veterans who suffer from PTSD.

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The Times described ibogaine as a miracle drug that can arrest substance abuse, reduce suicides, reverse neurodegenerative disorders, extend brain life, and even reconnect individuals to their spirituality.

Ibogaine comes from the root of the iboga shrub. It is often turned into a powder for consumption. / Wikimedia commons

However, it is certainly not without its side effects.

Perry told the paper that his 2023 experience with Ibogaineat a clinic in Tijuana, Mexico, where it is not regulatedincluded a bizarre 12-hour trip in which the Evangelical Christian says he saw the devil himself.

Rick Perry, 73, says his crusade in favor of ibogaine is now his lifes mission.

Objects flew past him, the Times wrote of his experience. Some of them appeared to resemble Maya hieroglyphics. He saw an arm reaching out for him, and attached to it was a figure with horns. Satan, get behind me, he heard himself say. The figure instantly disappeared.

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Perry said the hallucinations were just a part of the chaos. He told the Times he also vomited intermittently and lost much of his bodily coordination. He required an entire day to recover, but he says he exited the experience a whole new man.

Former Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a Democrat who received ibogaine treatment in May with hopes it would prevent her from being diagnosed with dementia, told the Times the therapy was the opposite of a pleasant experience.

Former Arizona Sen. Krysten Sinema, a Democrat, said she traveled abroad to receive ibogaine treatment to help fend off the possibility of being diagnosed with dementia. / Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call/Getty

Not everyone who receives ibogaine treatment survives.

A 49-year-old New Yorker died in 2022 after he paid $12,500 to receive treatment at an ibogaine clinic in Mexico, which had also treated Jordan Belfort, a.k.a the Wolf of Wall Street, reported Rolling Stone. The man was hoping to overcome an addiction to fentanyl, cocaine, and other substances after relapsing, but he died two days after taking the drug. His clinic never released an exact cause of death.

The real-life Wolf of Wall Street, Jordan Belfort, said he underwent ibogaine treatment in Mexico. / jfizzy/Star Max / GC Images

Perry did not travel south to rectify an addiction problem. Instead, he told the Times that he hoped to ease his anxietyan issue that he dealt with since his childhood, having suffered three concussions that knocked him out for at least a minute apiece, but had been exacerbated in his failed presidential runs in 2012 and 2016.

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The Republicans first White House run ended two months after an embarrassing flub on a GOP debate stage, in which he forgot the name of a federal entity that he said he would abolish as president. Given time to rack his brain, he still could not muster a response other than, I cant, sorry, and, famously, oops.

Perry later said that his intended target was the Department of Energy. Ironically, he was appointed by President Donald Trump to lead that very departmentthe one he once wished to scrapin 2017.

The Texan says he hopes to speak with Trump soon about using ibogaine treatment to help veterans. That may take a little extra legwork, given the murky nature of the politicians relationship in 2025.

Trump insulted Perry last month, saying he wasnt the smartest bulb and that you dont want him on your debate team. That suggests the president remains upset over a 2019 call he made to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in which he asked the ally to do us a favor and probe the Bidens. That call led to Trump being impeached. He claims it was Perry who told him to make the call in the first place.

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Still, his fraught relationship with the presidentand the religious rights deference to ibogaine, which hails from Gabonis not deterring Perry.

In the end, Trump is very transactional, he told the Times about lobbying a temperamental leader who apparently views him as dumb. And anyway, I wouldnt want to be on my debate team, either.
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA)  A former University of Illinois Police officer convicted of official misconduct is going back to trial following an appellate courts ruling that overturned his conviction.

In a 30-page ruling obtained by WCIA, the three justices of the appellate court hearing the case unanimously said Judge Roger Webber erred in denying Jerald Sandages motion to suppress evidence in the case where he was tried for official misconduct. Sandage argued that the evidence was obtained illegally and thus could not be used against him.

Webber ruled that it could be used against him, and the judge later convicted Sandage from the bench on seven counts of official misconduct.

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The appellate court disagreed, reversing Webbers ruling and ordering a retrial.

Governor Pritzker signs Sonya Masseys law

The investigation into Sandage started in 2018, when a woman accused him of raping her off duty that year. Investigators from the Illinois State Police began looking into him and obtained a warrant to seize and search his electronic devices used in the commission of, or which constitute evidence of, the offense of criminal sexual assault.

It was while State Police investigators were looking into the sexual assault allegations that they found images on Sandages phone that appeared to depict search results from the UIPDs police system ARMS used to check peoples information. This system is to be used only for official law enforcement purposes.

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At this point, the investigation did not result in sexual assault charges against Sandage, even after a second woman came forward to accuse him of rape. Police said both women later declined to participate further in the investigation.

Believing the case was closed, Kyle Border, the lead State Police agent in the case, turned over the evidence gathered to the UIPD for an internal investigation. That investigation was conducted by UIPD Lieutenant Joe McCullough, who is now the departments Deputy Chief.

McCullough reviewed a digital copy of the data taken from Sandages cell phone, which he said was for employment purposes and to look for policy violations, not part of a criminal investigation. But notably, the appellate justices said he did this without permission from the defendant and without seeking a new warrant.

It was while conducting this review that McCullough, who didnt know about the ARMS images beforehand, discovered them among nearly 250,000 images on Sandages phone.

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Based on his review of the ARMS and LEADS images, Lieutenant McCullough was suspicious that the defendant may have engaged in improper use of those databases. At that point, Lieutenant McCullough thought he may need a search warrant to continue searching the defendants cellphone data, and he called the states attorneys office, Appelate Justice Mark Boie wrote in the ruling. He spoke with a prosecutor who indicated that he did not need to obtain a search warrant to continue searching the hard drive. After further investigation, Lieutenant McCullough concluded that the LEADS searches were not performed in connection with the defendants official duties.

Man sentenced for 2024 armed robbery in Danville

Police later said the images included the personal information of five women and two men on and off the U of I campus, and that the images were kept for Sandages personal advantage. When the reports of this were made available to the Champaign County States Attorney, she determined there was sufficient evidence to file charges of official misconduct.

Sandage was arrested and then charged with the seven counts of official misconduct. He pleaded not guilty and later resigned from the UIPD.

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His legal troubles didnt end there, however. Further investigation by the Illinois State Police later found evidence to back up the allegations of sexual assault made against Sandage, including images of naked women on his phone and the accounts of two more women who came forward, making for a total of four victims.

Charges of sexual assault and sexual abuse were then filed against Sandage in four different cases, with the alleged crimes dating back as far as 2012. All four of those cases are still pending in the Champaign County court system.

The official misconduct case went to trial three years ago, ending with Judge Webber convicting Sandage on all counts and sentencing him to concurrent terms of five years in prison for each count. Credit was given for the two years Sandage was already in custody.

This means that Sandage has served almost all of his sentence for his official misconduct conviction, but that conviction has been reversed following a ruling by an Illinois appellate court.

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Shortly after his sentencing, Sandage filed an appeal, arguing that Judge Webber made an error in denying his motion to suppress the evidence against him. Sandage argued three things:

That the search warrant the State Police obtained was not sufficiently particularized. That Lieutenant McCullough conducted a warrantless search of his phone data, which exceeded the scope of the original warrant. That the ARMS images were not found in plain view when State Police Agent Kyle Border and UIPD Lieutenant Joe McCullough searched his phone data.

The plain view doctrine, Boie explained, gives police the ability to seize an item without a warrant if they observe it where they are lawfully located where they are, the item is immediately apparent and the officer has lawful access to it.

The state responded by saying the warrant was particularized because it was limited to devices which constitute evidence of Criminal Sexual Assault, and the state argued McCullough simply reviewed information that was already recoveredpursuant to a valid search. The state also argued that the ARMS images were admissible under an inevitable discovery exception in that McCullough had a right to review the data from Sandages phone as his supervisor.

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Decatur man accused of attempted rape in grocery store

In the appellate ruling, Boie and his fellow justices rejected Sandages argument about the original search warrant being too general, but did accept his other two arguments: that McCulloughs search did exceed the scope of the original warrant and that the record on appeal does not support the finding that LEADS images were discovered in plain view during Agent Borders search.

The justices also rejected the states inevitable discovery argument and said the admission of the evidence did not constitute a harmless error.

For these reasons, the three justices of the appellate court found that Judge Webber erred in denying Sandages motion to suppress evidence and remanded the case back to the circuit court for a new trial.

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Even with this development and his sentence ending, Sandage is not eligible for release from custody because of the four other sexual assault cases against him.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  The Mississippi Attorney Generals Office is seeking additional information on a case involving a former Mississippi doctor.

According to Attorney General Lynn Fitch (R-Miss.), Dr. Mehul Dixit was indicted on August 11, 2025, by a Hinds County Grand Jury on 13 counts of gratification of lust of a vulnerable person and 12 counts of sexual battery of a vulnerable person. The indictment is centered on clinical visits that occurred from 2013-2023.

Suspect in custody in Holly Springs double homicide: sheriffs office

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In May 2023, Dixit was accused of fondling teenage patients. According to the court, Dixit was ordered not to have contact with the victim or the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). He was also ordered to wear an ankle monitor.

Dixit, who had been practicing pediatric nephrology at UMMC in Jackson, was also ordered to surrender his passport. The State Board of Medical Licensure also suspended his license.

Documents from the medical board show two teenage girls reported that Dixit touched them inappropriately with an ungloved hand during exams at UMMC. The board said its investigators found a third teenager who filed a similar complaint in Florida in 2016.

In 2023, Dixits attorney said the hospital fired him, and he agreed to quit practicing medicine.

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Anyone with information about the case can contact the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office at medicaidfraud@ago.ms.gov and 800-852-8341.

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Andrew Abood, the attorney for Sandra Baxter, addresses Ingham County Circuit Court Judge James Jamo on June 17, 2025 where Baxter officially entered a plea deal offered by the Michigan Department of Attorney General in the Unlock Michigan dark money case. | Photo by Ben Solis

Sandra Baxter, one of two individuals charged in the wake of the Unlock Michigan scandal, was sentenced Wednesday after accepting a plea deal from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.

While Baxter was initially charged with perjury, she pled guilty in June to a lesser charge of knowingly providing a false or misleading statement to a police officer during a criminal investigation, a misdemeanor charge.

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Circuit Judge James Jamo sentenced Baxter to three months of reporting probation, 20 hours of community service and a $2,500 fine  the highest amount permitted by law.

Baxter raised money for the Michigan! My Michigan! fund tied to former Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake), where authorities say she funneled funds to support the Unlock Michigan campaign committee, which aimed to repeal the emergency powers Gov. Gretchen Whitmer utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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For too long, dark money has operated in the shadows of Lansing with little accountability, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement Wednesday. The Unlock Michigan investigation shed light on corruption in campaign finance that was long considered common practice. Fair elections depend on transparency and honesty, and attempts to skirt the system or mislead law enforcement and the people of Michigan will not be tolerated.

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Baxter was accused of lying to investigators about the extent of her fundraising efforts for the fund, with the Department of Attorney General alleging she was given an opportunity to correct her statements under oath, and chose not to.

Baxter was charged alongside Heather Lombardini, the head of Michigan Citizens for Fiscal Responsibility  also tied to Shirkey  and treasurer for the Michigan! My Michigan! fund.

Lombardini faces charges of forgery and uttering and publishing, allegedly encouraging wealthy business people and political funds tied to large businesses to donate to Michigan Citizens for Fiscal Responsibility with the intention of moving that money to support Unlock Michigans signature gathering efforts.
Mary Ann Magdamit, a 31-year-old former employee of the United States Postal Service (USPS), recently pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud after allegedly stealing checks and credit cards from the mail and using the proceeds to purchase luxury goods.

The former letter carrier faces 30 years in prison after investigators reportedly found stolen bank cards and checks at her apartment in Carson, California.

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The case highlights the ongoing concerns about mail theft and employee integrity within the postal system, particularly as recent reports highlight a worsening problem at USPS.

A three-year operation

According to Magdamits plea agreement, her mail theft operation at the Torrance Post Office in California reportedly spanned three years from 2022 to 2025.

During this period, Magdamit employed multiple strategies to profit from the mail she allegedly stole, which contained personal identification information, credit and debit cards, as well as checks. She then reportedly monetized these items by using the stolen bank cards to make purchases, distributing cards to co-conspirators and selling stolen bank cards online.

But the scheme extended beyond simple bank card theft. Magdamit also orchestrated a check-cashing operation, arranging for accomplices to cash stolen checks using counterfeit identity documents that matched the names of the legitimate check recipients. This included one check that totaled more than $45,000.

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Magdamit was finally arrested on July 1 2025, at which time she was reportedly still making purchases with stolen cards. She remains in custody as she awaits her sentencing.

Read more: Nervous about the stock market? Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund  even if youre not a millionaire. Heres how to get started with as little as $10

Crime spree documented on social media

In December 2024, authorities executed a search warrant at Magdamit's apartment and found substantial evidence: more than 130 stolen debit and credit cards, 16 Department of Treasury checks, as well as a loaded, unserialized Glock clone which was described as a "ghost gun," a type of homemade firearm that is considered untraceable.

The search also uncovered numerous luxury goods allegedly purchased with the stolen cards and checks. Magdamit used the stolen items to fund an extravagant lifestyle, which also included international vacations to Aruba and Turks and Caicos.

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According to the investigation, Magdamit frequently boasted about her criminal lifestyle on Instagram, where she posted images of luxury items, stacks of cash and other incriminating evidence. Security camera footage from stores such as Apple also captured Magdamit purchasing items with the stolen cards and checks.

As part of her plea arrangement, Magdamit has agreed to forfeit certain luxury items, including a Rolex watch, according to the Department of Justice.

Mail theft is a growing problem at USPS

A 2024 report by the Office of the Inspector General of the USPS found that closed internal theft cases at the postal service have increased by 47% since 2019. All told, investigators identified 5,961 closed cases of internal mail theft in that five-year period.

As bad as you think it is, its much worse! I mean, its bad! Frank Albergo, president of the Postal Police Officers Association, told NBC 7 San Diego.

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You have criminal organizations, gangs, that are actually recruiting people to get a job in the postal service so they can rob mail and drain bank accounts, he added. Thats literally whats happening.

Fortunately, there are a few practical steps regular Americans can take to help safeguard their mail and reduce the risk of theft:

Secure your mail: Consider using a P.O. Box to increase security, and always retrieve your mail promptly to avoid leaving items unmonitored overnight. Deposit any outgoing mail directly at the post office instead of using collection boxes, and consider mail forwarding or holds when traveling to prevent accumulation. Avoid sending vulnerable items: Dont send cash through the mail system. Use checks or electronic payments instead to help trace any theft or fraud. Be proactive: Use tracking and signature confirmation for important or valuable items, and set up electronic notifications for bills and banking to quickly detect missing mail. You can also monitor your financial statements regularly for unauthorized transactions that might indicate stolen mail.

If you suspect your letter or package has been stolen, you can file a report on the USPS Inspection Services website or by calling 1-877-876-2455.

What to read next

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  A former clerk of court in Williamsburg County accused of embezzling more than $100,000 in public funds has been indicted on corruption charges, according to the South Carolina Attorney Generals Office.

A state grand jury returned a ten-count indictment against Sharon Staggers on Aug. 12, charging her with misconduct in office, embezzlement, and ethics act violations.

The indictments allege that Staggers embezzled approximately $119,499.06 in Title IV-D funds intended for child support programs between November 2019 and October 2023.

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Title IV-D is a section of the Social Security Act that established the child support enforcement program, a partnership between the state and federal governments.

Staggers is a Democrat who was first elected in 2012 and ran unopposed in both the primary and general election for a third four-year term in 2020, according to the Associated Press.

She ran again for the office in 2024 but was defeated in the June Democratic primary.

Staggers is the third public official in Williamsburg County to be indicted on public corruption charges in the past six months.

Suspended Sheriff Stephen R. Gardner and former county Supervisor Tiffany Cooks were charged in March for their roles in an alleged scheme to embezzle government funds. They are both currently out on bond.

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It was not immediately clear whether all of the cases are related.

This story is breaking and may be updated.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
A former youth pastor has been extradited from Georgia to face sex abuse charges from nearly two decades ago.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Thomas Pinkerton, 52, has been arrested by the Baltimore County Police Department on several sex offense charges related to abuse that allegedly occurred between 2006 and 2010.

The alleged incidents occurred at Central Christian Church along Rossville Boulevard, and at Pinkertons home in Baltimore County, Md.

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Pinkerton, who now resides in Georgia, was extradited to Maryland and is currently held at the Baltimore County Detention Center without bond.

TRENDING STORIES:

ABC-affiliate WMAR reports that an official investigation was launched at the end of October 2024, when police got a call from a man living in West Virginia, who reported being victimized by Pinkerton.

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WMAR reports that the caller claims the abuse started with massages, hand holding, and Pinkerton whispering things like I love you, son.

Later in his conversation with police, the caller provided names of other potential victims, according to WMAR.

In total, police interviewed seven men, according to WMAR.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

In a statement, Lead Pastor of Central Christian, Larry Kirk, said the news is deeply heartbreaking.

Kirk said Pinkerton served on staff more than 15 years ago and has not been affiliated with Central since leaving to start his own ministry.

The matter became known after one of the alleged victims had the courage to step forward and report the abuse to law enforcement. Since then, additional individuals, some of whom were minors during the staff members tenure, have come forward with similar accounts, said Kirk. Allegations have also surfaced from individuals in other states after the staff members departure. We are committed to walking alongside these young men with compassion and support.

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The church has offered counseling and spiritual support to those impacted.

While the legal process is still underway, church leadership emphasized its unwavering stance against abuse of any kind. There is absolutely no place for abuse - ever - in the church, said Kirk.

Baltimore County detectives are handling the case and have expressed concern that there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.

The police are urging anyone with information to contact the Crimes Against Children Unit at 410-887-7720.
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A Fort Campbell soldier has been charged with multiple child sexual exploitation offenses after allegedly inappropriately contacting multiple minors for over a year.

A press release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Tennessee, citing court documents, alleges 39-year-old Robert Cecilio has been communicating with at least three minor females using the social media app Snapchat to get the victims to send him nude photos and videos of themselves.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee

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Records obtained through a search warrant yielded more than 8,400 contactsmessages, images and videosbetween Cecilio and one of the victims.

The Clarksville man was arrested by the FBI Wednesday, though he was detained by Army CID Special Agents and Military Police Officers as he entered Fort Campbell last Friday. The USAO said Cecilio waived his Miranda rights and told officials he used a Snapchat account that had been previously searched by law enforcement as well as other accounts when communicating with minors.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Cecilio allegedly confessed to engaging in inappropriate sexual communications with many minor girls for an extended period of time and had received many images and videos of minors that he understood to be child pornography.

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If convicted, Cecilio would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

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 WKRN News 2.
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

John-Paul Sager appreciates the care he has received at Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics, but he thinks it should be easier for veterans like him to use their benefits elsewhere.

Sager, a Marine Corps and Army veteran, uses his VA coverage for non-VA treatment of back injuries stemming from his military service. But he said he sometimes must make several phone calls to obtain approval to see a local chiropractor. "It seems like it takes entirely too long," he said.

Many veterans live hours from VA facilities, or need health services that aren't readily available from the VA. In such cases, the department is supposed to provide a referral and pay for private care. Critics say it often hesitates to do so.

Republicans controlling Congress aim to streamline the process of obtaining what is known as community care.

Two Republican senators have introduced legislation that would make it easier for rural veterans to seek care at local hospitals and clinics. The proposals would build on VA community care programs that started under Democratic President Barack Obama and were expanded in Trump's first term.

Critics worry that steering veterans to private care facilities drains federal money from the VA hospital and clinic system. But supporters say veterans shouldn't be forced to travel long distances or wait months for the treatment they could obtain at local hospitals and clinics.

"My main concern is for veterans, not for the VA," Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., told KFF Health News. "I don't believe we have an obligation to sustain the bureaucracy."

About 9 million veterans are enrolled in the VA health system. Last year, about 3 million of themincluding 1.2 million rural veteransused their benefits to cover care at non-VA facilities, according to data provided by the department.

Cramer co-sponsored a bill that would allow veterans who live within 35 miles of a rural, "critical access" hospital to use VA benefits to cover care there or at affiliated clinics without referrals from VA staff.

Cramer, who serves on the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, noted his state has just one VA hospital. It's in Fargo, on the state's eastern border, which is more than 400 miles by car from parts of western North Dakota.

Many North Dakota veterans drive past multiple community hospitals to get to the VA hospital for treatment, he said. Meanwhile, many rural hospitals are desperate for more patients and income. "I kept thinking to myself, 'This doesn't make any sense at all,'" Cramer said.

Cramer said previous laws, including the VA Mission Act, made it easier for veterans to use their benefits to cover care at community hospitals and clinics.

But he said veterans still must fill out too much paperwork and obtain approval from VA staffers to use non-VA facilities.

"We can't let the VA itself determine whether a veteran is qualified to receive local care," he said.

U.S. Rep. Mark Takano of California, who is the top Democrat on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, said he sees the need for outside care for some veterans. But he contends Republicans are going overboard in shifting the department's money to support private health care facilities.

The VA provides specialized care that responds to veterans' needs and experiences, he argues.

"We must prevent funds from being siphoned away from veterans' hospitals and clinics, or VA will crumble," Takano said in a statement released by his office. "Veterans cannot afford for us to dismantle VA direct care in favor of shifting more care to the community."

Some veterans' advocacy groups have also expressed concerns.

Jon Retzer, deputy national legislative director for the Disabled American Veterans, said the group wants to make it easier for veterans to find care. Rural and female veterans can have a particularly tough time finding appropriate, timely services at VA hospitals and clinics, he said. But the Disabled American Veterans don't want to see VA facilities weakened by having too much federal money diverted to private hospitals and clinics.

Retzer said it's true that patients sometimes wait for VA care, but so do patients at many private hospitals and clinics. Most delays stem from staff shortages, he said, which afflict many health facilities. "This is a national crisis."

Retzer said the Disabled American Veterans favors continuing to require referrals from VA physicians before veterans can seek VA-financed care elsewhere. "We want to ensure that the VA is the primary provider of that care," he said.

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins has pledged to improve the community care program while maintaining the strength of the department's hospitals and clinics. The department declined a KFF Health News request to interview Collins.

Marcus Lewis, CEO of First Care Health Center, which includes a hospital in Park River, North Dakota, supports Cramer's bill. Lewis is a Navy veteran who uses the VA's community care option to pay for treatment of a back injury stemming from his military service.

Overall, Lewis said, the community care program has become easier to use. But the application process remains complicated, and participants must repeatedly obtain VA referrals for treatment of chronic issues, he said. "It's frustrating."

Park River is a 1,400-person town about 50 miles south of the Canadian border. Its 14-bed hospital offers an array of services, including surgery, cancer care, and mental health treatment. But Lewis regularly sees a VA van picking up local veterans, some of whom travel 140 miles to Fargo for care they're entitled to receive locally.

"I think a lot of folks just don't want to fight the system," he said. "They don't want to go through the extra hoops, and so they'll jump in the van, and they'll ride along."

Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, said veterans in some areas of the country have had more trouble than others in getting VA approval for care from private clinics and hospitals.

Bost helped gain the House's approval for Trump's request for $34.7 billion for the community care program in 2026. Although spending on the program has gone up and down in recent years, the appropriation represents an increase of about 50% from what it was in 2025 and 2022. The Senate included similar figures for next year in its version of a military spending budget that passed Aug. 1.

Bost also co-sponsored a House bill that would spell out requirements for the VA to pay for community care.

Sager hopes the new proposals make life easier for veterans. The Gulf War veteran lives in the northeastern Iowa town of Denver. He travels about 15 miles to Waterloo to see a chiropractor, who treats him for back and shoulder pain from injuries he suffered while training Saudi troops in hand-to-hand combat.

Sager, who remains active in the Army Reserve, also visits a Waterloo outpatient clinic run by the VA, where his primary care doctor practices. He appreciates the agency's mission, including its employment of many veterans. "You just feel like you're being taken care of by your own," he said.

He believes the VA can run a strong hospital and clinic system while offering alternatives for veterans who live far from those facilities or who need care the VA can't promptly provide.

The local VA doesn't offer chiropractic care, so it pays for Sager to visit the private clinic. But every few months, he needs to obtain fresh approval from the VA. That often requires several phone calls, he said.

Sager is one of about a dozen veterans who use the community care program to pay for visits at Vanderloo Chiropractic Clinic, office manager Linda Gill said.

Gill said the VA program pays about $34 for a typical visit, which is comparable to private insurance, but the paperwork is more burdensome. She said leaders of the chiropractic practice considered pulling out of the VA program but decided to put up with the hassles for a good cause. She wishes veterans didn't have to jump through so many hoops to obtain convenient care.

"After what they've done for us? Please," she said.

2025 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Brief

The U.S. Army sergeant accused of shooting five fellow soldiers at Georgia's Fort Stewart Army base is facing attempted murder, aggravated assault, and domestic violence charges.

Army officials say one of the victims was 28-year-old Army Sgt. Quornelius Radford's romantic partner.

Under military law, attempted murder carries a potential penalty of life in prison.

HINESVILLE, Ga. - We now know the charges against a U.S. Army sergeant accused of shooting five fellow soldiers at Georgia's Fort Stewart Army base.

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On Tuesday, 28-year-old Army Sgt. Quornelius Radford made his first appearance in a military courtroom.

The backstory

Radford was arrested Aug. 6 after officials say he opened fire with a personal handgun on members of his supply unit.

The shooting caused the Army post near Savannah and multiple school systems to go into lockdown for hours.

Officials say Radford was stopped when soldiers in the area tackled him and wrestled his gun away, restraining him until military police arrived. All five of the wounded soldiers survived the attack.

Quornelius Radford is charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, and domestic violence. (WTOC/Liberty County Sheriffs Office)

The Army confirmed the weapon used was his personal firearm, not a military-issued gun. Investigators are working to learn how he was able to get the weapon onto the base.

New details in Fort Stewart shooting

What we know

In court Tuesday, the sergeant was charged with six counts of attempted murder  the sixth referring to a soldier he shot at and missed, said Michelle McCaskill, a spokesperson for the Armys Office of Special Trial Counsel, which is prosecuting Radford.

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Radford also faces six counts of aggravated assault and a single count of domestic violence.

"That charge is there because one of the victims was the intimate partner of the accused," McCaskill said.

She said she did not know whether Radfords partner was among the five people he wounded. The Army has not released the victims names.

Fort Stewart officials have declined to comment on the shooters motives.

What's next

Under military law, attempted murder carries a potential penalty of life imprisonment.

Now that hes been charged, Radford faces pretrial proceedings to determine whether there is enough evidence for him to stand trial by court-martial.

Who is Sgt. Quornelius Radford?

Dig deeper

Last week, the New York Times reported Radford sent a chilling text message to his aunt just moments before the shooting, saying goodbye to "everybody" and that he would be "in a better place."

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His father told the Times his son had requested a transfer from Fort Stewart after complaining of racism. However, he also said that he hadn't noticed anything unusual about his son's behavior recently.

The New York Post reported Radford was bullied over his stutter during the two months he spent at Fort Lee, Virginia, in 2018.

Radford had no known prior discipline or mental health issues reported on base, but officials said they are still investigating. However, after the shooting, officials say they learned Radford had been arrested for a DUI after running a red light in Hinesville.

According to the incident report, Radford refused breathalyzer and field sobriety tests, insisting he was not intoxicated.

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However, the arresting officer noted the smell of alcohol and described Radfords eyes as watery and bloodshot. He was scheduled to appear in Liberty County court on Aug. 20, according to USA Today.

The Source

Information for this story came from reports by the Associated Press, New York Times, New York Post, USA Today, and previous FOX 5 reporting.
Sally Maze, who went viral in April with a video expressing her disdain for Dallas, was honored by the city of Fort Worth Tuesday with the designation of mayor for the day.

The video, posted by her daughter Katherine Rauzi, showed 91-year-old Maze calling Dallas flooty tooty and imploring her daughter to move back to Tarrant County.

Maze, who grew up in Fort Worths Riverside neighborhood, currently lives in Hurst.

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Lets get this meeting started, cause I have a lot of opinions, Maze said as she gaveled in Tuesdays meeting.

Fort Worths elected Mayor Mattie Parker thanked Maze for being a vibrant voice for the Fort Worth community. She noted the video of Maze garnered over 4.3 million views on Instagram and led to media attention from WFAA and the Star-Telegram.

Maze thanked Parker and the city for the recognition.

Im 91 and Im mayor, I mean its great, Maze said.
CADDO VALLEY, Ark.  Officials with the Arkansas State Police said troopers seized an estimated $1 million in stolen drugs and arrested four men from Texas in connection with a Missouri pharmacy burglary.

Officials said troopers seized more than 26,000 stolen pills worth an estimated $750,000 to $1 million after a July 31 burglary in Maryland Heights, Missouri. They said the four men were seen on a security camera breaking into the pharmacy at 1:15 a.m. by breaking a rear window.

Former Stone County chief deputy gets federal prison sentence for stolen gun, extortion

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After the four were inside, officials said they spent two hours breaking into a secure cage holding controlled substances, then filled large bags with prescription pill bottles.

A Be on the Lookout was issued for a Toyota RAV4 because of pharmacy security footage, officials said. Later, troopers spotted the RAV4 traveling with a second SUV near Caddo Valley.

VIDEO: Powerball jackpot winner tackled, tased after kicking Florida deputy

The two SUVs were stopped at a Pilot Travel Center, and the four men were taken into custody, officials said.

Officials said troopers searched the SUVs and found two large trash bags, each filled with pill bottles that included over 6,000 Hydrocodone pills, approximately 1,500 Morphine pills, and more than 6,700 Oxycodone pills.

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Troopers arrested 21-year-old Erik Dewayne Lyons Jr., 29-year-old Johnathan Dewayne Fore, 32-year-old Anthony Ray Venwright Jr., 32, all from Houston, Texas, and 21-year-old Bartley Omar White Jr. of Humble, Texas.

Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care law upheld by appeals court

Each man is facing eight felony counts of trafficking a controlled substance. They were taken to the Clark County Detention Center, officials said, adding that the investigation is ongoing and may result in additional charges from Missouri authorities.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
BURLESON COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44)  The Burleson County Sheriffs Office says it has made four arrests over the past month in connection with the prostitution and solicitation of minors.

The Caldwell Police Department assisted in the apprehension of three of these individuals.

Lucas Chancellor has been charged with Prostitution.

Lucas Chancellor. (Courtesy: Burleson County Sheriffs Office)

It was believed that Dylan Sanchez was communicating with a 15-year-old girl. He has been charged with Solicitation of a Minor, Possession of a Controlled Substance (PG2 1g-4g), Tampering with Evidence, and more than two counts of Violation of a Protective Order.

Dylan Sanchez. (Courtesy: Burleson County Sheriffs Office)

Isaac Madison has been charged with Prostitution, Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon, and Theft of a Firearm.

Isaac Madison. (Courtesy: Burleson County Sheriffs Office)

It was believed that Mark Garrett was communicating with a 15-year-old girl. He has been charged with Online Solicitation of a Minor. He was arrested by the Madison County Sheriffs Office on a Burleson County warrant.

Mark Garrett. (Courtesy: Burleson County Sheriffs Office)

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The Burleson County Sheriffs Office is urging the public to report any suspicious activity involving the exploitation of minors or illegal behavior. You can contact the Sheriffs Office at (979) 567-4343 or use the iWATCH program via the Texas DPS mobile app.

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(FOX40.COM)  The California Highway Patrol says three men and one woman were killed in the early hours of Monday, August 4, when their car plunged into the river.

Officials say the crash happened off Rindge Road in San Joaquin County, on private property. Friends and coworkers told FOX40 that the victims had just finished their shift picking crops near Klein Farms.

CHP does not yet know if alcohol or speed was a factor in the crash.

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For an undetermined reason, the driver lost control, Officer James Smith with CHP told FOX40. The vehicle veered to the right, traveled down the embankment, and ended up in White Slough. The vehicle became fully submerged, and unfortunately, we had four people who lost their lives.

Loved ones have identified the victims as Alegandra Sanchez Hernandez, Macario Reyes Tolentino, Juana Amado Basilio, and Esteban Alcantara Gerardo. Officials have not yet formally confirmed the identity of the female victim.

Owners of the private road did not allow FOX40 to view the scene of the accident, but a farmworker activist tells FOX40 that the narrow, unpaved road is hazardous.

Every day they have to drive about a mile on that dangerous road, which is not straight, Luis Magana, a farmworker activist in the San Joaquin Valley, told FOX40.

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A friend and coworker of one of the victims echoed those concerns.

Its not a place thats very safe, because the river is right on the edge of the road, the friend said. Everyone who works in the field should be careful.

CHP says no one should drive faster than conditions allow, but there is no speed limit on private property.

Magana believes this accident could have been prevented and is calling on officials to post warning signs before another crash occurs.

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ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44)  Three Vermont natives and one Connecticut resident were arrested Tuesday after the state Drug Task Force conducted a search warrant on Higgins Hill Road.

Officers with the task force were joined by the VSP Tactical Service Unit at the scene. There they located Andy Dwyer, Amber Wood and William Mitchell of St. Johnsbury, plus Kamrim McKain of Hartford, CT. Firearms and suspected narcotics were also found.

All four were taken into custody. Both Wood and Dwyer are set to appear in Vermont Superior Court, Caledonia Criminal Division August 13, and were ordered held on $50,000.00 bail at Northeast Correctional Complex. McKain, who is also at Northeast Correctional Complex, is being held on $100,000.00 bail. He will appear in the same court at the same time.

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Senators push for surging resources to northern border

Meanwhile Mitchell was released, and will appear in Vermont Superior Court, Caledonia Criminal Division November 3.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44.
Kyle Carmean - Fox Television Stations

Kyle Carmean has been promoted to vice president of news and content for WTTG Fox 5 DC and WDCA Fox 5 Plus.

Carmean will oversee all the editorial, business, and administration functions for the stations and their streaming offerings.

"Kyle has been instrumental in the stations success over the last decade. His innovative approach and creative vision will continue to lead our newsroom to future growth, said Sue Diviney, senior vice president and general manager of the duopoly.

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Carmean has been with the Fox Television Stations (FTS) for 20 years. He joined WTTG/WDCA in 2014 as assistant news director. Before that, Carmean spent 9 years as managing editor at WTXF Fox 29 Philadelphia. Prior to joining FTS, he was a nightside desk manager for WJZ-TV 13 in Baltimore, Maryland. Carmean began his career in broadcasting as Producer then Bureau Chief for WBOC-TV in Dover, Delaware.

"I'm ready for the opportunity to lead this skilled team of journalists and content creators as we continue our commitment to meeting the changing needs of our viewers in a multiplatform world, said Carmean.
France, Germany and the United Kingdom have told the United Nations they are prepared to reinstate sanctions on Iran, according to a joint letter.

The letter, sent to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council, said the three European powers were committed to use all diplomatic tools at our disposal to ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon unless Tehran meets a deadline to speak with them.

We have made it clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism, the ministers wrote, the AFP news agency reported on Wednesday.

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Iran says its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes and has denied seeking nuclear weapons.

The warning comes amid heightened tensions over Irans suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Tehran halted collaboration with the UN nuclear watchdog after Israel launched a 12-day war against Iran in June, targeting senior military leaders, top scientists and nuclear facilities.

Iran had been in talks with the United States at the time over its nuclear programme, before Washington later carried out its own bombing raid on Irans nuclear sites during the conflict.





The foreign ministers of the so-called E3 group wrote to the UN on Tuesday, raising the prospect of snapback sanctions  a provision in a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran that eased UN Security Council measures in exchange for curbs on its nuclear activities.

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Under the agreement, which expires in October, any signatory can restore the sanctions if they believe Iran is in breach.

The letter follows what the E3 described as serious, frank and detailed discussions with Iran in Istanbul last month, the first in-person talks since Israeli and US strikes targeted Iranian nuclear sites.

France, Germany and the UK were signatories to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) alongside the United States, China, Russia and the European Union. The accord required Iran to limit its uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief.

In 2018, then-US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the deal and reimposed sanctions. The European powers pledged to uphold the agreement but now claim Iran has breached its terms, including building a uranium stockpile more than 40 times the limit set in 2015.

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However, no evidence has been found that Iran has enriched uranium to weapons-grade levels of 90 percent after it allowed inspections of its nuclear facilities by the IAEA.

Meanwhile, Iran has agreed to hold talks with the IAEA and is preparing to host a visit by the UN watchdog, its first since Tehran cut ties with the agency last month following the June conflict.
By Michel Rose

PARIS (Reuters) -France, Germany and Britain have written to the United Nations to say they are ready to reinstate sanctions on Iran if it does not return to negotiations with the international community over its nuclear programme.

The foreign ministers of the so-called E3 group wrote to the U.N. on Tuesday to raise the possibility of "snapback" sanctions unless Iran takes action, according to a letter shared by the French foreign ministry.

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The letter was first reported by the Financial Times and France's Le Monde newspaper.

"We have made it clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism," the ministers said in the letter.

They added that they had offered Iran a limited expansion to allow for direct negotiations between the United States and Iran, but that the offer had remained unanswered by Iran so far.

The three European countries, along with China and Russia, are the remaining parties to a 2015 nuclear deal reached with Iran - from which the United States withdrew in 2018 - that lifted sanctions on the Middle Eastern country in return for restrictions on its nuclear programme.

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The E3's warning comes after "serious, frank and detailed" talks with Iran in Istanbul last month, the first face-to-face meeting since Israeli and U.S. strikes on the country's nuclear sites in June.

Iranian lawmaker Manouchehr Mottaki, who served as foreign minister from 2005 to 2010, said Iran's parliament "has its finger on the trigger to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)" if international sanctions were reimposed after any E3 invocation of the snapback mechanism.

Mottaki told Iran's semi-official Defa Press that parliament would approve a bill to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal within 24 hours if the E3 invoked the snapback mechanism.

During its 12-day war with Israel in June, Tehran said its lawmakers were preparing a bill that could push it towards exiting the treaty, ratified by Tehran in 1970. The treaty guarantees countries the right to pursue civilian nuclear power in return for requiring them to forego atomic weapons and cooperate with the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the IAEA.

(Reporting by Michel Rose in Paris, additional reporting by Surbhi Misra in Bengaluru and Dubai Newsroom; Editing by Michael Perry and Gareth Jones)
The three countries wrote in a letter to the UN and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday to raise the issue unless the Islamic Republic shows willingness to resume talks.

Iran will face sanctions by the E3 - France, UK, and Germany - should they fail to resume nuclear talks with the international community, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.

The three countries wrote in a letter to the UN and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday to raise the issue unless the Islamic Republic shows willingness to resume talks, the report added.

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The letter from the three foreign ministers - Jean-Noel Barrot from France, Johann Wadephul from Germany, and David Lammy from the UK - was obtained by the Times, said, "We have made it clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, the E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism.

A look into the snapback mechanism

The snapback mechanism from the UN is a process that would reimpose UN sanctions on Tehran that were lifted under a 2015 deal in return for restrictions on Iran's nuclear program.

United Nations Security Council holds a session following Israel's security cabinet's decision to take control of Gaza City, August 10, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/EDUARDO MUNOZ)

The E3 reportedly threatened in late July a snapback mechanism to reimpose sanctions on the Islamic Republic if no progress is reached at the end of August.

The letter comes only two months after the United States and Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites.

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Just over three weeks ago, Iranian deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said that reimposing international sanctions on the country would only make the situation over Iran's nuclear issue more complex.

Reuters contributed to this report.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, either because of a blockage (called an ischemic stroke) or bleeding (a hemorrhagic stroke). Around 83% of strokes are ischemic.

The main emergency treatment for ischemic strokes is a "clot-busting" process called intravenous thrombolysis. But this only works if administered quicklyideally within an hour of arriving at the hospital, and no later than 4.5 hours after symptoms begin. The faster treatment is given, the better the person's chance of survival and recovery.

However, not everyone gets an equal chance of receiving this treatment quickly. Notably, research has shown ambulance staff are significantly less likely to correctly identify a stroke in women compared to men.

In a recent study, we modeled the potential health gains and cost savings of closing this gap. And they're substantial.

The sex gap in stroke diagnosis

In Australia, about three-quarters of people who experience stroke arrive at hospital by ambulance. If paramedics suspect a stroke, they can take patients directly to a hospital which specializes in stroke care, and alert the hospital team so scans and treatment can start immediately.

Research has shown women aged under 70 are 11% less likely than men to have their stroke recognized by paramedics before they arrive at the hospital.

While younger men and women experience stroke at a similar rate, the symptoms they present with may be different, with "typical" symptoms more common in men and "atypical" symptoms more common in women.

Research has shown women and men are equally likely to present with movement and speech problems when having a stroke. However, women are more likely to show vague symptoms, such as general weakness, changes in alertness, or confusion.

These "atypical" symptoms can be overlooked, leaving women more vulnerable to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and preventable harm.

What we did

In our study, published recently in the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA), we used ambulance and hospital data from a 2022 MJA study in New South Wales. This is the study we mentioned above that showed paramedics correctly identified stroke more often in men than women under 70.

From this dataset, we identified more than 5,500 women under 70 who had an ischemic stroke between 2005 and 2018. Using this group, we built a model to compare two scenarios:

the status quo, where women's strokes are identified at the current rate of accuracy; and an improved scenario, where women's strokes are identified at the same rate as men's.

We then projected patients' health over time, including their level of impairment, risk of another stroke, and immediate and long-term survival.

Closing the diagnosis gap would save lives and money

When women's stroke diagnosis rate was improved to match men's, each woman gained an average of 0.14 extra years of life (roughly 51 days) and 0.08 extra quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), meaning an additional 29 days in full health.

Scenario two also meant A$2,984 in health-care costs would be saved per woman.

Scaled to the national level based on the number of women under 70 hospitalized with ischemic stroke each year, closing this gap would mean 252 extra years of life, 144 extra QALYs, and $5.4 million in cost savings annually.

Some limitations

We didn't have sex-specific data for every aspect of the model, which is in itself a telling sign of the lack of recognition of sex as an important factor in understanding disease. Because of this, we used combined data from both men and women in some parts of our model, which may have affected the results.

Further, the NSW data we used for rates of treatment with intravenous thrombolysis were higher than the national average, so our national figures may be slightly over-estimated.

Beyond strokewhy all this matters

The disparity we found is one example of a broader, systemic issue in women's health: sex-based differences in diagnosis and treatment that favor men.

Too often, women's symptoms are misinterpreted or dismissed because they don't match a "typical" pattern. This can lead to delays, missed opportunities for early treatment, and worse outcomes for women.

In stroke, faster and more accurate diagnosis means people are less likely to die or require long-term care, and more likely to recover better and get back to their daily lives sooner.

So what can we do to close the diagnosis gap?

Investing in better training for paramedics and other emergency responders, so they can recognize a wider range of stroke presentations, could pay off many times over. Public awareness campaigns that highlight atypical stroke symptoms could also help.

Technologies such as mobile stroke units and telemedicine support may be part of the solution, but they must be implemented with attention to sex-specific needs.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A Franklin County commissioner has taken some heat after a crash she was involved in on July 2 this year.

Franklin County Commissioner Erica Crawley was driving her white Mercedes SUV in Downtown Columbus when she crashed into a woman driving a red sedan.

Body camera footage from Columbus Police showed the aftermath of the crash, including several witnesses who saw what happened.

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In that footage, Crawley tells police she was driving south on N. 3rd Street after she just exited the highway. The other woman involved was driving west on Spring Street when both cars collided.

Crawley thanked the first responders who helped at the scene.

I was in a motor vehicle accident on July 2, she said. Im a human being, having had having a human experience just like everyone else. And I am grateful for the Columbus Police Department who came by and showed up on the scene and the EMTs, who came and made sure that everyone was safe and healthy.

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During the police body camera footage, about 25 minutes, viewers can see the officers talking to both drivers and several witnesses. Both drivers claim the other was at fault for running a red light. Both drivers were asked if they needed medical attention, and both declined.

Another person on scene has drawn further criticism online. Columbus City Council member Nicholas Bankston can be seen in the body camera footage already stopped next to Crawleys vehicle when police arrive.

Marinos Fish & Chips to reopen; Arthur Treachers central Ohio return stalled

I didnt call Councilmember Bankston at all, Crawley said. Councilmember Bankston drove by and saw the accident and saw me standing there and stopped, just like I would hope any bystander would to check on a colleague, a friend, or even just somebody that you dont know. Ive done that for other people, and he did that for me, but I absolutely did not make a phone call to Councilmember Bankston.

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Police did not issue a citation to either driver, and a crash report was not filed. An officer states during the body camera footage that since theres no injuries and the cars are off to the side of the road, theres not going to take a crash report out of this. It will just be an insurance report.

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FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) People looking for a career typically take the path through college, but others like to go through trade school. Regardless of which option they choose, Franklin County wants to make either choice a good one.

Theres new energy at Ferrum College, as the school officially welcomed its largest incoming freshman class in almost a decade. According to President Mirta Martin, this freshman class is 50 percent larger than last years, and people are coming from not just the commonwealth but across the nation and the world.

We have students that are coming from Oregon, from New Mexico, from California, from Arizona, and from Florida, and we have students that are coming from Africa, from the UK, from Mexico, from Spain, and from other parts of the world, Martin said. The word is out, and the word is that Ferrum College is rising.

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School Bus Safety: What Virginia drivers need to know

Martin said shes glad more people want to be a part of that.

Everyone has an aspiration and everyone has a dream, and it is our job to ensure those dreams and aspirations become reality, she said. At Ferrum College, no one is ever a number; rather, theyre an individual.

For people in Franklin County who dont see a path through college, the county is working on getting a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) center in Rocky Mount.

The county board of supervisors agreed to purchase the property of a former Mod-U-Kraf site in town for $5 million and make it a public safety office and 911 center, along with housing the CTE.

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In order for the CTE part to happen, it still needs approval from the Rocky Mount town council. While both parties agree this is a necessity, the county wants to speed up the process.

I would hope that they would try to expedite the process if they work with us as a partner, Dan Quinn, the Franklin County Supervisor of the Union Hall district, said. Naturally, there will be little bumps in the road that we have to get over, but the first of those is to get the property rezoned.

The town of Rocky Mount wants to take its time, given the weight of this decision.

Its a big decision and its an important one for the community and for the town council to make, and so its important that the town council to take the time that they need to digest the information thats come in, Rocky Mount town manager Robert Wood said. There was some additional information that was turned in right before the Planning Commission meeting that the town council will want to have a chance to review.

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The town plans to address the issue sometime next month.

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City Council members shared a stage on Tuesday with those hoping to unseat them during a candidate forum for the upcoming Frederick city election.

More than 200 people registered to attend the forum, which was jointly organized by the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, the Frederick County Association of Realtors and the Frederick County Building Industry Association. The forum was hosted by The Arc at Market Street.

Candidates for City Council were divided into two groups.

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The five candidates for two at-large seats  Democrats Donna Kuzemchak, Derek Shackelford, Kelly Russell, Jennifer Dougherty and Libby Taylor  went first. There is no Republican in that race.

Kuzemchak, Shackelford, Russell and Dougherty all leaned on their history of service to the city in their opening remarks.

Between them, Kuzemchak, Shackelford and Russell have 48 years of service on the City Council, formerly the Board of Aldermen.

Video: Frederick City Council at-large election forum

At-large candidates for Frederick City Council take part in a forum Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

Professionally, Kuzemchak has worked in the real estate and development industry. Russell is a retired Frederick Police Department officer and Shackelford is a pastor.

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"Frederick is in a very different place than when I started in this position," Kuzemchak said of her service on the council.

"I've enjoyed my time on the council for eight years," Shackelford said. "I think I provide great leadership."

"I've served four terms proudly," Russell said. "I'm blessed to have been given an opportunity to serve the residents of Frederick."

Dougherty was the mayor of Frederick from 2002 to 2006 and has run unsuccessfully for the office several times since. She said she thinks her business experience is her biggest asset in politics.

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"That experience helped mold me as mayor, where, as you know, I didn't shy away from making decisions," said Dougherty, who owns Magoo's Pub & Eatery. "It's important that your elected officials are proving to you what they are capable of doing with actions."

Taylor, the only at-large council candidate who has not held public office, said she is motivated to run by a desire to make people's lives better. Her professional background includes working in homeless shelters and supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

"I got my master's in public policy so I could get on the front end of these issues that I was seeing every day," Taylor said.

The at-large candidates were asked to weigh in on topics such as the pace of growth in Frederick, the city's business climate, and recent changes to the city charter.

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On the issue of growth, Shackelford said the problems Frederick faces are "good problems to have, because there are cities where people are leaving."

He said Frederick has struggled to build infrastructure and expand services in tandem with the growth, but other growing cities have the same struggle.

Taylor said most residents she talks to are concerned about too many people moving to Frederick. However, she said, there are also people being pushed out by the high cost of housing.

"It's expensive to be here," Taylor said.

Dougherty said most complaints about rapid growth stem from neighborhood-level issues like traffic and speeding cars.

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Working with the city's Neighborhood Advisory Councils to address these issues would help assuage concerns about growth, she said.

Kuzemchak said the city has the money to move infrastructure projects along faster, but has chosen not to.

"Either we give it back to the people who it belongs to, or we spend it for the betterment of the people who have given it," she said.

Russell said growth belongs within the city of Frederick's borders. Stopping growth, she said, would undermine efforts to make housing more affordable by decreasing the supply of new homes.

Asked about Frederick's business climate, Dougherty said the city's Office of Economic Development needs to be "more fleet of foot" in communicating with developers and residents about potential projects.

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Kuzemchak said that, in her experience, it is much easier now to submit applications for permits in the city than it used to be. She said the city could further help the business community by providing job training to residents.

Shackelford said he thinks Frederick already has a "resilient" business community, but businesses here would benefit from more predictability in approval processes.

Russell said she thinks Frederick's "thriving economy" is evidence that the city has a favorable business climate. She said the city should do more of what it is already doing, and she is open to conversations about how to improve.

One issue facing Frederick's business community that Russell said she is interested to learn more about is the impact of for-profit retail activities along Carroll Creek.

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She said the council's Government Operations Committee will discuss the topic at its Aug. 21 meeting.

Taylor said she has heard business owners say Frederick is very welcoming. She said she would like the city to have something similar to the Maryland Business Express, in which people looking to start a business could find all of the forms they need in one place.

Asked about recent changes to the city charter, both Taylor and Dougherty said they would like unaffiliated voters to be able to participate in Frederick's primary elections.

Dougherty said she would like to revisit the idea of ranked-choice voting, in which voters rank candidates in order of preference. The lowest-scoring candidate is eliminated in each round and those votes are shifted to candidates who remain.

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Taylor said she would like city elections to coincide with presidential elections.

Kuzemchak said she is generally supportive of the new charter, but thinks it is too early to say whether any changes should be made.

Shackelford said he was supportive of having district-specific members on the City Council, based on how often neighborhood-level issues came up during the candidate forum.

Russell said that it was disconcerting to see the city being broken into districts. She believes all residents should see themselves as part of "one Frederick" and expressed concerns that not enough candidates would come forward at the district level.

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District candidates

At the end of the forum, the district-level council races got about half as much as time as the at-large races. The district council candidates each were asked to answer only one question in addition to their opening statements.

Nine of the ten candidates for district-level seats participated in the forum. Joe Adkins, a Republican running for District 4, was out of the country and could not attend, according to Chamber President and CEO Rick Weldon.

Frederick City Council district candidates' election forum

Candidates for Frederick City Council districts take part in a forum Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

Current City Council President Katie Nash, a Democrat unopposed in District 1, said she thinks her role in the next couple of years will be "shepherding the changes that we made" in the charter review process.

Cesar Diaz, a Democrat unopposed in District 2, said he hopes to listen to his neighbors' concerns and give a voice to them on the City Council.

Peter Brehm, one of two Democrats running in District 3, said the City Council is now well-positioned to provide oversight on issues like the Westside Regional Park project and the use of mitigation fees paid to the city by developers.

Dave Schmidt, the other Democrat running in District 3, said he has long felt that too many of Frederick's elected officials have lived north of Patrick Street and west of Market Street. He said it's time for people in the downtown area where he lives to have representation.

Scott Lasher, one of two Democrats running in District 4, said he feels "very strongly" that Frederick's comprehensive plan has been ignored by sitting elected officials. He believes the City Council needs to be more "people-driven."

Fredy Ventura Garcia, the other Democrat running in District 4, said he is running to "shake things up." He said people of all ages in Frederick have told him that they are tired of "career politicians" in power.

Sarah Hempel Irani, a Democrat running in District 5, said she wants everyone in Frederick to be able to do what she has done  live within walking distance of their work, raise a family and fulfill their dreams.

Ryan Trout, another Democrat running in District 5, said that "watching the federal government retreat from its responsibilities" in recent months made him want to do something to help the community. He said his skills as a civil servant "happen to match this moment."

Rob Callahan, the Republican candidate in District 5, said the charter change brought the city government closer to the citizens, where it should be. He said he hopes to bring down taxes, increase police presence in neighborhoods, and encourage young people and senior citizens to remain in Frederick.

The primary election for Frederick City Council will be held on Sept. 9. Early voting will be held on Aug. 22 and 23.

Mail-in ballots are being sent to all eligible voters between Aug. 10 and 19.

Candidates

A list of Frederick City Council candidates and links to their profiles.
FIRST ON FOX  The U.S. may allow a controversial draft United Nations Security Council resolution to pass that some critics say would help Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terror organization.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanons (UNIFIL) mandate is up for renewal at the end of August, and the French-authored text would buy the mission another year while also not giving a firm termination date, according to a draft obtained by Fox News Digital. However, it states that the ultimate goal is to have "the Lebanese government [be] the sole provider of security in southern Lebanon" as long as it "fully controls all Lebanese territory."

UN peacekeepers (UNIFIL) vehicles ride along a street amid ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, in Marjayoun, near the border with Israel, southern Lebanon Nov. 19, 2024.

Us Champions Lebanon's Response To Hezbollah Disarmament, Hints At Abraham Accords Opportunity

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While applauding the end of hostilities, it also takes aim at Israel for its moves against Hezbollah terrorists operating across its border, noting in the draft that it, "Welcomes the cessation of hostilities arrangement between Israel and Lebanon of 26 November 2024 (S/2024/870), as a critical step towards full implementation of Resolution 1701, while noting with grave concerns the continuous violations of this arrangement, notably air and drone strikes on Lebanese territory, and requests the parties to faithfully implement its provisions, with the support of the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL) and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), in line with their respective mandates."

The draft also urges Israel to withdraw from its five remaining positions inside Lebanon, which Israel maintains are meant to counter Hezbollah. Israel would also be encouraged to take part in "diplomatic efforts" to delineate a border between itself and Lebanon. If the resolution were to pass in its current form, Lebanon would be responsible for manning the posts with the help of UNIFIL.

As part of its goal of clearing southern Lebanon of unauthorized armed personnel  primarily Hezbollah operatives  the resolution encourages the international community to back the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) so it can ensure the absence of armed factions between the Blue Line and the Litani River.

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Following the Second Lebanon War in 2006, the U.N. Security Council passed Resolution 1701, which outlined that UNIFIL and LAF would work to block Hezbollahs activity in southern Lebanon. However, this has not been the case and critics fear that French draft would only bolster a system that has already failed.

Hezbollah members salute and raise the group's yellow flags during the funeral of their fallen comrades Ismail Baz and Mohamad Hussein Shohury, who were killed in an Israeli strike on their vehicles, in Shehabiya in south Lebanon on April 17, 2024. (Photo by AFP) (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images)

Decision Day Approaches For Trump Admin On Controversial Un Force That Failed To Disarm Hezbollah

A senior policy analyst for the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA) has voiced concern about renewing UNIFIL's mandate and called on the U.S. to veto it.

"UNIFIL has proven, over the course of decades, its failure to achieve any semblance of its stated purpose. UNIFIL was created in 1978, during the chaotic Lebanese Civil War, to try to stabilize Lebanon and prevent broader spillover," Yoni Tobin pointed out in an op-ed originally published by the Algemeiner. He also noted that UNIFIL has not acted against Hezbollah's building up its arsenal despite being given the green light to do so.

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In the years since the resolutions passing, the terror organization has been active, with Israel uncovering networks of tunnels similar to those used by Hamas. Additionally, Hezbollah quickly joined in Hamas war against Israel after the Oct. 7 massacre.

Hezbollah weapons cache was located near a UNIFIL post by IDF troops in southern Lebanon.

Unifil Ignored Hezbollah Terror Buildup For 18 Years, Israel's Un Ambassador Says

"Among countless failures by the United Nations in the Middle East, UNIFIL may be the most spectacular. Tasked with ensuring that Hezbollah would not rearm after the 2006 war, it patiently watched as Hezbollah became the largest non-state terrorist and military organization in the world," the former U.S. Ambassador during the first Trump administration, David Friedman, told Fox News Digital in June. "Stability in Lebanon  within reach only now that Israel has decapitated Hezbollahs leadership  will not be achieved through UNIFIL."

In October 2024, Fox News Digital reported that UNIFIL had failed to prevent Hezbollahs rapid rocket and weapons buildup since the mandate was implemented in 2006.

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Pro-Hezbollah officials and soldiers within Lebanons Army also remain a core problem, according to experts and media reports. In late January, a LAF chief reportedly sent a classified document to Hezbollah. The LAFs Suhil Bahij Gharb, who oversees military intelligence for southern Lebanon, secured the confidential material from a military facility run by the U.S., France and UNIFIL.

It remains unclear how the U.S. will vote on the resolution or whether it will seek revisions to the French-authored text.

The U.S. mission declined to comment, while the U.N. missions of Israel and France did not respond to Fox News Digital requests.

Fox News Digital's Benjamin Weinthal contributed to this report.





Original article source: French-drafted UNIFIL resolution could shield Hezbollah as US stays silent
BERLIN (AP)  French President Macron says Trump was 'very clear' that U.S. wants to achieve ceasefire at summit with Putin in Alaska.
Fresh demonstrations against Israel's military offensive in Gaza erupted in Greece on Wednesday, with protesters clashing with police as an Israeli cruise ship docked in the port city of Volos.

There have been several protests at various Greek ports in recent weeks against the Crown Iris cruise ship, which is operated by Israeli shipping giant Mano Maritime and is currently touring around Greece.

Local communities unfurled huge Palestinian flags and chanted pro-Palestine slogans as Israeli tourists disembarked from the cruise ship.

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In the coastal city of Volos, located some 330 kilometres north of Athens, demonstrators protesting the arrival of the Crown Iris were dispersed by riot police using stun grenades.

The Israeli tourists were still able to disembark the ship and board buses for tours of nearby Mount Pilio and the Meteora monastery complex in Thessaly, local media reported. Meanwhile, the protesters left the port and continued their pro-Palestine march through the main streets of the city.

Last month, the Crown Iris left the Greek island of Syros early without its passengers disembarking after more than 150 protesters demonstrated at the island's port.

"It is unacceptable that tourists from Israel continue to be welcomed here while the Palestinians are suffering in the [Gaza] Strip," the protesters said on social media.

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However, some Greeks have denounced the protests, including the country's Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis.

"We owe an apology to these friends of Greece who chose to spend their holidays here and were forcibly denied it by some," he wrote on X last month following the incident in Syros. "Our country remains hospitable to all and antisemitism has no place here!"

Israels Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar contacted his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis, over the Syros incident. Israel has reportedly stressed to Greece that the protests against the Crown Iris could end up harming Israeli tourism in the country.

Greece is a popular tourist destination for Israelis on package tours and travelling independently, particularly in the summer months, and there are several flights per day between Tel Aviv and Athens, as well as from Israeli airports directly to Greek islands.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  President Trumps decision to federalize police in Washington, D.C. and deploy National Guard troops to the city is the right move to bring safety back to the streets, U.S. Rep. Russell Fry said Tuesday.

People dont feel safe in Washington, D.C. When constituents travel there, when tourists travel there, they often dont feel safe. Even in areas that you do not expect, Fry told reporters during a veterans event at Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

Under the Home Rule Act, Trump can temporarily take control of the Districts police department if he determines special conditions of an emergency nature exist. The president announced Monday he was declaring a public safety emergency in the District.

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Trump also has the authority to activate the D.C. National Guard without local approval, though he is restricted in certain other actions by the Home Rule Act, which grants various powers to D.C.s local government. National Guard troops will not be able to make arrests but will support local and federal law enforcement.

Trump said he was tapping Terry Cole, the administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), to serve as the federal governments leader of the Metropolitan Police Department. Cole was sworn in as DEA commissioner in July.

Crime in D.C. was down 35 percent in 2024 from the previous year, marking a 30-year low. Data from the District shows violent crime is also down so far in 2025 compared with the previous year. Trump turned his attention on the city when a former member of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was attacked during a carjacking in the city earlier this month.

Fry said reported crime was down, but actual incidents remain of concern, though he did not provide any specifics during his brief remarks on Tuesday.

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The president has always wanted peaceful cities, peaceful population centers. And what is happening in Washington D.C. right now is not meeting the needs of both the citizens and residents that live there, Fry said. What Washington has tried hasnt been working and if he wants to see if he can have a better result, I certainly support that.

* * *

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.

* * *

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Katie Harrill joined the News13 team as a multimedia journalist in June 2025. She is a native of Cumming, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia in December 2024. You can keep up with Katie on Facebook, X, (formerly Twitter), 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.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  Seventh District Congressman Russell Fry and his office representatives on Tuesday held a Veterans Resource and Appreciation Day at the Horry-Georgetown Technical College Conference Center.

The event was for veterans along the Grand Strand, giving them a chance to learn about the resources available to them and the chance to connect with assistance one-on-one.

Fry supports the Trump administrations stance to hold the Veterans Association accountable for helping its veterans, and he is working to make things easier and more accessible in South Carolina. Representatives from Frys office and members of several local and state offices for veteran affairs attended the event to lend a helping hand.

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These organizations, and Frys team, say they understand the importance of helping veterans learn about what they may be eligible for and making them aware of VA education benefits and caregiver support.

Veterans in attendance received assistance submitting forms like VA Disability claims and signing up for and using veteran health care and other benefits they may not have been aware of.

The biggest hurdle that they face are just bureaucratic snags, generally, that it becomes very cumbersome and hard to get the care that youve earned, Fry said. My role as a Congressman is to make that as easy as humanly possible, both with legislation and things that we vote on the hill, but also in events like these that really allow the veteran community to plug in very easily to things that are offered in this area.

Jerry Rovner is a retired Navy captain. He attended the event last year and brought his 92-year-old friend, a veteran of the Korean War, with him this year.

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They can come here, and they can get help filling out these forms. The forms are very difficult, Rovner said. The gentleman I helped, like I said, hes 92. I filled them all out for him.

He said his friend is blind in one eye and often gets frustrated with the VA people over the phone.

Here, everybody is really nice, cordial, and walked us right through everything we need to do, Rovner said.

Fry added that they hope to hold more events like this in the future to help the men and women who have served the country. He is working on legislative initiatives to help ease the veteran-related processes they endure.

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From a legislative standpoint, Im always looking for ways to be creative, to make this work, he said. You know, the Veterans Administration has received more money over the years, but they serve less veterans, and so sometimes its not a symptom of money, but its a symptom of the bureaucracy getting out of the way and delivering top quality care to individuals.

* * *

Katie Harrill joined the News13 team as a multimedia journalist in June 2025. She is a native of Cumming, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia in December 2024. You can keep up with Katie on Facebook, X, (formerly Twitter), 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.
A British organised crime boss who organised shootings and traded assault rifles from his flat in Spain is "tired of living a life of crime", a court has heard.

Jamie Rothwell, who was found by police "hiding out" at an apartment in Barcelona, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to a string of drugs and firearms offences.

His barrister, Chris Henley, KC, said the 38-year-old had vowed to turn his life around after living in "isolation, loneliness and fear".

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Rothwell, from Salford in Greater Manchester, is due to be sentenced on Thursday along with nine other men.

He was arrested after being identified as the man behind the "livelong" handle on the supposedly uncrackable EncroChat phone network.

French police hacked into EncroChat's servers between 30 March 2020 and 24 May 2020.

It gave detectives real-time access to messages between thousands of organised criminals, who were oblivious to the fact they had been compromised.

The intercepted messages were shared with British police forces.

Greater Manchester Police said the messages exposed Rothwell's "command over a sprawling criminal enterprise and his involvement in the trafficking of high-powered weapons, including AK-47 rifles".

The cracking of the EncroChat system exposed thousands of organised criminals [GMP]

Prosecutor Jaime Hamilton, KC, outlined some of the messages which gave "an insight into the violence that is the hallmark and by-product of his business".

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In one of them, Rothwell said: "When you have fire in your heart you don't stop... you get addicted, you lose everyone, you turn cold, no emotions."

In another, Rothwell bragged of how he was "sending constant" consignments of Class A and B drugs and guns, before adding: "I sent 300 straps [firearms] home, I got RPG, M16, AKs, Glock Machines."

Mr Hamilton said Rothwell also discussed how he had fallen out with other criminals.

This was said to have included them trying to kill him and how this meant he had a "six-month war" with one, during which he went on the rampage.

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The court heard how in April 2020, Cheshire man Liam Byrne was told by police that his life was under threat.

On 22 April 2020, Rothwell and another man discussed Rothwell's wish to find out the address of both Mr Byrne and his father, Liam Byrne Sr.

Rothwell was sent these details along with photographs of the men and images of their addresses from a satellite mapping application.

Jamie Rothwell discussed how he was "addicted" to his criminal lifestyle [GMP]

In one message, Rothwell stated: "I'm gonna do all them soon", before discussing the use of a specific van as a getaway vehicle.

Two days later, that van was caught on CCTV parking up near one of the houses in Warrington.

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David Barnes, the stepfather of Mr Byrne, was shot in the leg on the doorstep of his home by a gunman posing as a pizza delivery driver.

Following the infiltration of EncroChat, Rothwell was tracked down to an apartment in Barcelona in 2020 before being extradited back to the UK.

He had fled to the Catalan city after police in the UK had handed him a "threat to life" notice.

Rothwell pleaded guilty to conspiracies to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, conspiracies to supply cocaine and ketamine, and two counts of conspiracy to inflict grievous bodily harm with intent.

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In mitigation, Mr Henley said Rothwell had spent five years thinking about his life since his arrest and now felt feelings of "remorse and regret", including for "breaking the hearts" of his family.

'Older and wiser'

The defence barrister added: "He is tired of the life he has lived.

"He has expressed that all he has really achieved is isolation, loneliness, fear and a life away from his family."

Mr Henley said he wanted to put "aside the bravado, the hype, and glamorisation around serious offences, and communicate some hard truths to people about what life really looks like".

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He added that Rothwell would "like to share with others - perhaps younger people who perhaps stand on the edge of some sort of offending precipice".

Mr Henley asked the judge to "acknowledge the steps [Rothwell] had already taken" when passing sentence.

"He is now a much older and wiser man than he was when he was 33 when these offences took place," he said.

The court also heard how Rothwell had been characterised as "quite talented as a young adolescent with a degree of intelligenc".

However Mr Henley said Rothwell's family had been unable to prevent him from being seduced by the "superficial" criminal lifestyle.

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"Once that momentum is set and one is immersed in that kind of environment, it is very hard to divert from that sort of path," he said.

"It led to serious danger and him being on the receiving end of very serious violence and threats in the past."

The court heard how Rothwell spent most of his time inside his apartment in Barcelona after fleeing the UK.

Rothwell, who was flanked by four security guards in the dock, will appear via video link on Thursday for sentencing.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.

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(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.)  A fugitive wanted out of Texas for sexual assault on a child was arrested on Monday, Aug. 11 in Manitou Springs.

According to the City of Manitou Springs, officers received a tip about a wanted person believed to be living in Manitou Springs. Through an investigation, the Manitou Springs Police Department (MSPD) determined the suspect had been using an alias to obtain employment at a local business.

The suspect, identified as Mitchell Thomas Harris, was wanted out of Randall County, Texas on charges of sexual assault on a child and had been evading law enforcement for around four years.

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Harris, known to use the names Billy and Billy the Kid, was taken into custody without incident outside of his home in the downtown area, thanks in part to collaboration between local law enforcement and area businesses.

Courtesy: Manitou Springs Police Department

This successful arrest reflects the dedication and diligence of the Manitou Springs Police Department in safeguarding the community and maintaining strong partnerships with local businesses and other law enforcement agencies, the City said.

Harris remains in custody pending extradition to Texas.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
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: Vera Kratochvil/public domain

Late nights, alcohol, and smoking on weekends may be doing more than disrupting your Monday mornings. They could also be triggering a newly identified sleep health concern known as "social apnea," warn researchers from Flinders University.

Published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the international study introduces social apnea as a novel trend in sleep medicine, referring to the weekend spike in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) severity, driven by lifestyle choices and irregular sleep patterns.

The research, which analyzed data from over 70,000 people worldwide, found a consistent and significant increase in OSA severity on weekends. Experts from FHMRI Sleep Health coined the term social apnea to describe this phenomenon.

"Sleep apnea is already a major public health issue, but our findings suggest its true impact may be underestimated," says lead author and Research Fellow Dr. Lucia Pinilla from FHMRI Sleep Health.

"Most clinical diagnostic testing is done on a single night, typically a weeknight, missing the weekend effect we're now calling social apnea."

Dr. Pinilla explains that this weekend surge in sleep-disordered breathing may heighten the risk of serious health conditions including heart disease, depression, dementia, and extreme fatigue and motor vehicle and other accidents.

The study found that participants were 18% more likely to have moderate to severe OSA on weekends (Saturdays) when compared to mid-week (Wednesdays).

Changes in sleep schedules, such as staying up late on weekends or sleeping in, worsened sleep apnea.

Sleeping an extra 45 minutes or more on weekends increased the risk of worse sleep apnea by 47%. Men were 21% more likely to be affected, compared to a 9% increase in women.

Younger adults (under 60) had a 24% higher risk on weekends, compared to 7% in those aged 60 and above.

Matthew Flinders Professor Danny Eckert, Director of FHMRI Sleep Health and senior author on the paper, says this is the first evidence that OSA severity increases at the weekend.

Dr. Lucia Pinilla and Professor Danny Eckert, sleep experts, Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health and FHMRI Sleep Health, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University. Credit: Flinders University

"We don't yet know exactly why, but alcohol use, lighter sleep, and less consistent use of OSA therapies likely play a role."

Dr. Bastien Lechat, lead author of a separate article published in Communications Medicine, says similar mechanisms may drive seasonal variability in OSA severity.

"OSA tends to be worse during summer and winter, with severity increasing by 819% compared to spring and autumn," says Dr. Lechat.

"This seasonal spike is partly explained by higher temperatures, which disrupt sleep and lead to lighter sleep stages which is associated with worse OSA. In winter, longer sleep and later wake-up times increase time spent in REM sleep, which is also linked to more frequent apnea events."

Professor Eckert says that these findings align with the concept of social apnea and highlight the need for multi-night sleep assessments and more personalized approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

"Relying on a single-night sleep study may miss important variations, leading to underdiagnosis or misclassification of OSA severity," says Professor Eckert.

To combat social apnea, Professor Eckert recommends maintaining a regular sleep routine.

"Try to keep the same sleep schedule throughout the week and weekend, ensuring that you get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep a night," he says.

"Keeping a fixed wake-up time and using your prescribed OSA therapy, even on weekends, and going to bed when you feel sleepy will help ensure you frequently get enough restorative sleep which can help combat the weekend spike in OSA."

OSA is a common sleep disorder affecting around one billion people globally. It is caused by repeated airway collapse during sleep and, if untreated, increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, depression, and even death. People concerned about their sleep should speak with their GP.
Never does a countrys capacity for reinvention matter more than during periods of economic, geopolitical, and political transition  like now. When the world is shifting and voters reward leaders who tackle practical, real-world challenges rather than recite yesterdays catechism, the key question is simple: can your party move with the times?

Across much of Europe, the answer has typically been not really. The grand old parties in the UK, France and Germany have tended to confront change by diminishing or mislabelling voter concerns. They have acted as closed exclusive clubs for party veterans, with a habit of closing ranks whenever challenged by outsiders. Given that the existing political architecture of Europe has tended to reward continuity over adaptation, key insurgents  like Nigel Farage, Marine Le Pen and Alice Weidel  have had to build new parties from scratch.

Now compare with the US party system. The Democrats and Republicans may also have old imposing brand names and both parties maintain permanent national committees in Washington. But unlike most European parties, they do not hand-pick candidates or crack the whip. They do little more than coordinate, fundraise and share data. Crucially, nominees for election are chosen in the open by voters in primaries and caucuses, not anointed in back rooms. That single procedural choice drains power from the centre and pours it into thousands of local contests.

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Layer on federalism. Elections run under 50 distinct state regimes (plus DC and the territories), each with its own calendar, ballot rules and political subculture. That yields 50 semi-autonomous state parties and countless county committees. Add Americas single-member, first-past-the-post districts, which reward broad, catch-all coalitions, and you are left with two giant party umbrellas instead of a dozen boutique brands. The objective is to assemble a wide  often unruly  alliance that can win from Miami to Anchorage. No national centre, however grand its headquarters, can command and discipline the patchwork required.

True, the UK also has a first-past-the-post system, which is one reason Westminster politics also rewards big-tent parties. But a continent-sized federation of 50 states forces a much larger tent.

Insurgents in Europe like Nigel Farage have had to build new parties from scratch - Phil Noble/Reuters

Now consider how US candidates rise. Because primaries empower voters rather than party boards, campaigns are candidate-centred. Ambitious politicians build their own machines; donors route cash through candidate committees and independent groups; outside organisations  unions, advocacy groups, super-PACs  operate alongside parties rather than beneath them. In effect, US parties are brands you lease, not clubs for life; they function like pop-ups, rebuilt each cycle. A persuasive outsider can take over a party by winning voters, not pleasing an executive committee. Donald Trump is the most vivid case study  but not the first and he will hardly be the last.

Many commentators confuse constant US political volatility with weakness. In fact, it is a source of strength. American politics is constantly rewired: policy agendas are road-tested in primaries, new coalitions assembled, ideas that resonate are adopted and scaled. So US politics lives in permanent beta mode. Messy, yes, but the constant feedback loop makes it consistently quicker at developing new ideas and putting them into practice than less grassroots-oriented (less democratic) systems.

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Even more important is the systems circuit breaker. The same decentralisation that fuels innovation and ventilation of voter frustration also limits extremism. Because power is split across Congress, the courts, the states, the media and civil society, even a peak-power president must bargain through rival centres of authority. The Founding Fathers wisely built it that way, believing an inner despot lurks in all of us. So governing is meant to be hard: the friction prevents any faction from freezing the system in its preferred shape for long. When Democrats overreached, voters clipped their wings; if Team Trump tries the same, the mechanism will bite again.

Switzerland may be the only country that does it better  and it helps when you are only nine million strong. In the rest of Europe, power is much more centralised. Central offices recruit, train and discipline; manifestos bind MPs; loyalty is rewarded, apostasy punished. So adaptation to voter sentiment is a lot slower. In Berlin, parties can feel like guilds. In London, even after Brexit restored legal sovereignty, ministers often still behave as if awaiting permission from Brussels. And in Paris, the Elysees gravitational pull remains immense: even after heavy electoral losses, Emmanuel Macron has found ways to let those with the old guard mindset run the government. The forms are republican but the smell is decidedly regal.

Back to the US and the Trump question. Love him, loathe him or call him a mixed bag  Trumpism will endure only as long as it is seen as mirroring the majoritys priorities. The moment a rival ticket better fits the national mood, voters will hand over the lease. What works will be quietly kept; what doesnt will be reversed. So doom-mongers can put the smelling salts away.

None of this denies that the American model can be exhausting; the noise is real. But the voter-politician feedback loop is far more direct than in Europe. Since even inside the establishment, political success depends on continually listening to the people that politicians always claim to serve.

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Which is why, foibles and all, the US is the clear frontrunner in todays global recalibration. Even more so now than during previous transition periods since much of Europe  especially the EU  has doubled down on centralisation, breeding the usual statism. Sure, the US is less stately, but also more self-correcting. The element of trial-and-error really is more pronounced, not only in politics but for closely connected reasons in industry, too.

The restlessness is not a bug in the system. It is the system. This is why the US capacity for reinvention really is unparallelled. As the still-young AI revolution rewires whole sectors  and society itself  that edge will matter more, not less.

Mark Brolin is a geopolitical strategist and the author of Healing Broken Democracies: All You Need to Know About Populism

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WEATHERLY, CARBON COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  13-year-old Jacob Delgadillo was laid to rest on Tuesday after police say he was killed by his foster parent more than a week ago.

Several area first responders came out to the Faith Church in Weatherly to give Delgadillo a proper send-off.

A somber scene in Weatherly as a 13-year-old Jacob Delgadillos remains were carried out of Faith Church by his siblings on Tuesday.

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According to state police, the teenager, tortured and killed by his foster parent, 39-year-old Cesar Delgadillo, on the morning of August 4 in Butler Township.

First responders from several local police, fire, and EMS agencies paying their respects to a life cut far too short.

Ramp closure on SR 115 to I-81 in Luzerne County

This is a senseless tragedy. This is a tragedy that shouldve never occurred. And I think we also want to come together to show that he was never forgotten. You know and he will always be remembered, you know. In the service, they spoke about hes a fun-loving character as a child, and I think that bottom line is that spirit should live on in all of us, City of Hazleton Fire Department Chief Donald Leshko said.

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Leshko says the day also serves as a time for advocacy.

It makes you sick. Its very sickening, very disheartening. This is something that we, we never would. I dont think emergency services ever want to get called for. But, in turn, we all come together and bond and try to build this spirit and make this so this will never happen again, Chief Leshko added.

Cesar Delgadillo and his wife, Virginia, are being charged with several crimes related to the case.

They are being held at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility without bail.

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HAVANA, Fla. (WMBB)  Today, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partners announced the final results and winners of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge.

During this years ten-day competition, 934 participants collectively removed a record 294 invasive Burmese pythons from South Florida.

The FWC says the Florida Python Challenge increases awareness about invasive species and the threats they pose to Floridas ecology, while offering the public a way to get directly involved in Everglades conservation.

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The winners of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge were announced at the FWCs Commission Meeting held in Havana, Florida. The Ultimate Grand Prize winner was Taylor Stanberry, who removed 60 Burmese pythons, winning $10,000.

Burmese pythons are found primarily in and around the Everglades in South Florida, where they prey on birds, mammals, and other reptiles. This years event included the exciting addition of Everglades National Park as one of eight official competition locations

A female Burmese python can lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. Since the year 2000, more than 23,000 wild Burmese pythons have been removed from the state of Florida and reported to the FWC.

In addition to the Florida Python Challenge, there are other ways people can continue to help control nonnative species such as Burmese pythons. Anyone may remove and humanely kill pythons and other nonnative reptiles at any time on private lands with landowner permission and on 32 FWC-managed lands throughout South Florida.

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The public can also help control invasive species by reporting nonnative snakes, tegus, and monitor lizards to the FWCs Invasive Species Hotline at 888-IVE-GOT1 (888-483-4681), and by reporting sightings of other nonnative fish and wildlife online at IveGot1.org or by downloading the free IveGot1 smartphone app. For more information on controlling invasive species, click here.

For more information on the 2025 Python Challenge, click here.

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FLORIDA (WMBB)  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has voted unanimously to authorize a bear hunt here in Florida.

Commissioners made the decision during their meeting in Havana, Florida, on Wednesday.

The vote came after dozens of people got up and spoke against the hunting of Florida black bears.

Supporters of the hunt say its necessary to control the bear populations interactions with people.

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Immediately after the vote, a coalition of bear advocacy groups announced plans to immediately file a lawsuit against the FWC.

The FWC has proposed the three-week regulated hunt to start in December. They are also considering selling a limited number of permits, with Florida residents paying $100 and non-residents paying $300.

The permit has a bag limit of one bear and the FWC needs to be notified within 24 hours with a tag attached to the bear for transportation.

187 bears will be harvested across four hunting zones. The zones are divided into 31 counties, including 11 panhandle counties.

We have a reporter attending the meeting.

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This is a developing story; more information will be provided when it becomes available.

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Florida hunters bagged their biggest trophy in memory Aug. 13 when state wildlife officials voted to approve rules that will resume an annual black bear hunting season.

At the conclusion of more than two and half hours of public testimony nearly evenly divided between proponents and opponents, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted 50 to hold the state's first black bear season in a decade. It'll take place over 23 days in December.

But an attorney for wildlife group Bear Warriors United said she would immediately file a state administrative challenge to block the hunt.

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County commissioners and sheriffs from Gulf, Liberty, Jackson, Bay and Franklin County led off public testimony, giving a thumbs up to the FWC's plan to hold a bear season at the end of the year. They all said a growing bear population has become a problem, with bears increasingly wandering into neighborhoods.

Franklin County Commissioner Ottice Amison said residents in the coastal county on the edge of the Apalachicola National Forest sees bears as "pests and threats."

"Were getting calls about bears on porches, near schools, breaking into homes, and rummaging through garbage just feet from where our children play," Amison said.

But bear hunt opponent Marsha Biggs countered that no evidence of an overpopulation of bears has been produced to justify a hunt.

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"This hunt is unnecessary and cruel unless you show us scientific data. And just as disturbing is the inclusion of cruel (techniques) such as hounding, baiting, and archery. It's just inhumane," Biggs said.

The FWC plans for this year's hunt includes a lottery for 187 permits. The permit entitles the holder to harvest one bear from four bear management units (BMUs) that stretch over 31 counties.

The proposed bear hunting zones in Florida

If the state defeats the impending administrative challenge, dates, quotas, and locations for future hunting seasons will be decided annually.

A coalition of a dozen conservation groups that organized weekend protests in at least 11 cities, put up billboards  including one near the Florida Capitol  and bused in members from Tampa, Daytona, and Jacksonville to speak against the hunt.

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FWC officials and biologists said they constructed a highly regulated structure for a hunt to reduce the bear population to a sustainable level.

Last regular bear hunt ended in 1990s

What appears to be a resurgent bear population led to calls to restart an annual bear hunt that ended in 1994. Moreover, calls about nuisance bears have increased from 2,000 in 2016 to more than 6,000 in 2024.

While conservationists see the black bear's survival a Florida success story, others said the increased numbers make bears a nuisance and a threat to public safety and the bears health as a species.

The FWC estimated there are 4,050 bears in seven distinct regions statewide. The population has increased from 1,200 in the 1990s when annual bear hunts ended, and from 500 in the 1970s when the bears were listed as a threatened species. Today, Florida is reaching its capacity to support a healthy bear population, according to wildlife biologists. And when bears become too populous in one area, some begin to wander into unsuitable areas. We start seeing underweight bears and other health issues, said FWC chief conservation officer George Warthen. This years hunt is confined to 68 bears in the East Panhandle BMU; 46 in the North, 18 in Central, and 55 in the South. Hunters will be allowed to use dogs to assist them and to bait bears, meaning using food to lure the bear into the open and shoot them while they eat. Those two provisions were a dividing line between the nearly 300 people who filled an auditorium and two overflow rooms at a Tallahassee State College branch campus. Groups like the Florida State Dog Hunters Association traded rhetorical blows with members of Bears Warriors United for nearly three hours while the commissioners watched and listened. For example, for every Charles Travis Porter who thanked the commissioners for doing the work to create regulations for a bear hunt, there was a Morgan Sorbo who chided them for adopting rules that Teddy Roosevelt would have found unsportsmanlike.

This billboard went up in two locations in Tallahassee, one near the governor's mansion, the day before the FWC met to approve rules for a bear hunt

After 168 public speakers weighed in, FWC chair Rodney Barreto led staff in addressing concerns raised by opponents. Warthen was called back to the lectern to defend the validity of the agencys population estimates. They are based on a combination of genetic tests of material collected with hair snares and a tagging program.

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Barreto then reminded the audience that the North American model of wildlife conservation has proven hunting to be an effective management tool, producing surging populations of ducks and wild turkeys.

And he added Florida's success stories in managing wildlife populations include the alligator and manatee. But that drew murmurs from the audience.

I want the public to know that this is not like a 'run and gun.' We make decisions based upon facts. We look to our professional staff with over 100 years of professionalism, Barreto said.

Nonetheless, attorney Raquel Levy left the meeting and headed to Tallahassee to file a state administrative challenge to block the hunt.

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"We believe the FWC has violated their own rules. They are not acting based on science. They're just acting on self interest," said Levy, of Daytona Beach.

The challenge, filed at the state's Department of Administrative Hearings, lists Bear Warriors United as the plaintiff and seeks to have bears relisted as a threatened species due to the FWC's failure to protect the animal from delisting in 2012.

They have not taken into account habitat loss, which they are supposed to do. And they have delegated their authority to the executive director, which they are not allowed to do, Levy said.

What to know about the Florida bear hunt

FWC will consider a hunt to run Dec. 628. A vote on the proposal will be taken at the August quarterly meeting in Havana.

The hunt will have a 187 bear quota from 31 counties divided into four bear hunting zones.

Sixty-eight bears will be permitted for harvest from 11 eastern panhandle counties including Franklin, Leon, and Wakulla; 18 bears from 12 Central Florida counties, 46 from five North Florida counties, and 55 from Lee, Collier and Hendry counties.

There will be a $5 permit application fee.

If selected in a random drawing for a permit, permits will cost $100 for a Florida resident, and $300 for a out-of-state hunters.

One bear is allowed per permit, and FWC must be notified within 24 hours of a bear being taken and a tag must be attached to the bear for it to be transported.

Hunters may use all archery equipment, muzzle loading guns, shotguns, center fire, rifles, revolvers and pistols and pre-charge pneumatic air guns to harvest bears.

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James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK  Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Annual Florida black bear hunt approved, faces protests, legal action
G.N.A Ristorante, a popular Italian spot on Penn Avenue in West Reading, has closed its doors and placed the property for sale.

The restaurant at 421 Penn Ave. closed before July 4, noting at the time on Facebook that it would be reopening July 8 after a brief summer break.

That reopening never happened, and a real estate listing showing the property for sale was posted on LoopNet later in July.

The sites owners are asking $2.5 million for the 10,569-square-foot property. It is owned by the Grande family.

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The Grandes own two other Penn Avenue establishments: Nonno Albys Brick-oven Pizza and Midtown Sip, Savor, Social, which opened this summer at the former location of Say Cheese! Restaurant and Cheese.

The Grande family did not respond to a request for comments.

As far as the plans for the GNA property, all options are open, according to Steve Willems, realtor with NAI Keystone Commercial & Industrial LLC, which is listing the property.

The listing notes that the building is available turnkey or for adaptive re-use, and is large enough to support four separate businesses.

A concept plan shows the building divided into four areas, with G.N.A retaining the corner area and the other three being offered for lease.

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It (the property is) open to a single tenant or multiple tenants, Willems told MediaNews Group. If the latter, G.N.A would love to stay in a reduced area.

G.N.A has occupied the building since 2006, according to the real estate listing. It was built in 1939 and opened as Moores Restaurant.

This is a very large and prominent building on the avenue and the owners need to right-size or entertain offers to purchase, Willems said. We are hopeful in retaining the quality and siting great businesses in this location.
GUATEMALA CITY (AP)  Anti-kidnapping teams freed 11 guards overnight after they were held hostage by gang members for most of a day in two Guatemalan prisons, demanding that authorities move their imprisoned leaders to other facilities.

Deputy Security Minister Jose Portillo confirmed the guards release shortly before midnight Tuesday, but didn't provide any details. It remained unclear on Wednesday what, if any, concessions the government made, but the National Civil Police said in a statement that anti-kidnapping teams had freed guards in both prisons. Authorities had retaken control of both prisons.

Police also said they had recovered the hostages guns and cell phones, as well as five pistols the prisoners carried. It said five inmates were responsible and would face charges.

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Riots had broken out early Tuesday in two prisons in Guatemala City, where the guards were captured by members of the rival Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha gangs. A guard and an inmate who suffered bullet wounds in the melee were evacuated during the course of the day to receive medical treatment.

Videos circulated online by the prisoners showed the guards blindfolded with their hands bound. In one, a prisoner read a statement saying the gangs wanted their leaders returned to the prisons where they were previously housed, something Guatemalas interior minister had earlier ruled out.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Heavily armed gang members killed two Haitian police officers in the latest deadly attack on law enforcement in the troubled Caribbean country, officials said Wednesday.

The officers attacked late Tuesday were members of a new specialized unit tasked with patrolling Kenscoff, a once peaceful farming community that gangs are trying to seize. It is located near the capital, Port-au-Prince, of which 90% is already controlled by gangs.

Lionel Lazarre, deputy spokesperson for Haitis National Police, told The Associated Press that the policemen were inside an armored vehicle that became stuck in a ditch dug by gangs and were killed as they tried to escape.

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In a video posted on social media, gang members gloated over boots, automatic weapons, bulletproof vests and other items they seized from police during the attack. They also posted gruesome videos of the officers killed.

The killings come less than a month after three other police officers and an informant were killed in Haitis central region, which gangs have repeatedly attacked. A fourth officer also remains missing in that case.

Some 1,520 people were reported killed and another 600 injured across Haiti from April to the end of June, with 24% of them injured or killed by gangs, according to the latest U.N. report.

Haitian police are working with Kenyan officers leading a U.N.-backed mission that is struggling to quell gang violence. The multinational force was supposed to be on the ground with more than 2,500 uniformed personnel but has less than 1,000, said Ulrika Richardson, the outgoing U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Haiti.

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Speaking at U.N. headquarters in New York on Tuesday, she described the situation on the ground as alarming and urgent, calling it very strikingly horrific in Port-au-Prince, where she lived and worked.

Richardson said 1.3 million people have been displaced by gang violence, 2 million people are facing emergency levels of food insecurity, and two out of three hospitals in the capital are not functioning.

She also noted that theres a lack of political will at many different levels and a lack of money. As an example, she said, the $900 million humanitarian response plan for Haiti, which is only 9% funded, is the lowest level of funding for any response plan in the world.

Richardson warned that Haitis gangs have now plunged into regional organized crime including trafficking in drugs, arms and people.

___

Associated Press press reporter Edith M. Lederer at the U.N. contributed.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Californias Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is earning plaudits for his recent trolling of President Donald Trump by mimicking his social media habits, including all-caps posts.

Newsom, a frequent foil for the presidents social media outbursts, took to X Tuesday night to blast DONALD TACO Trump, -- a reference to Trump Always Chickens Out, coined by a financial columnist over the presidents back-and-forth tariff policies.

Trump has been pushing several red states to gerrymander their congressional maps to give Republicans an upper hand, amid growing fears that the GOP could lose the House in next years midterms. The maps are typically redrawn every ten years following the census, and not in the middle of the decade.

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Newsom sent Trump a letter Monday calling on him to end the unprecedented, mid-decade, hyper-partisan gerrymander to rig the upcoming midterm elections.

If you will not stand down, I will be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states, he wrote. But if the other states call off their redistricting efforts, we will happily do the same. And American democracy will be better for it.

Newsom threatened to redraw Californias congressional maps unless Trump calls on Republicans to back off their redistricting efforts (AP)

Newsom subsequently posted on X that Trump had 24 hours to respond to the letter.

On Tuesday, as the deadline passed, he wrote: DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!).

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BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA, he added. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!

Sports reporter Emily Bicks wrote on Threads: Gavin Christopher Newsom keepin the no f***s energy comin.

Liberal social media commentator, Harry Sisson, wrote: I absolutely love how Gavin Newsom is treating Donald Trump with the disdain and disrespect that he absolutely deserves.

Newsom has been praised by some on social media for how hes taking on the president amid the fight over gerrymandering (AP)

Journalist Karly Kingsley added: I dont think were giving Gavin Newsom enough credit for what hes doing to defend democracy and to stop a wannabe dictator from consolidating power.

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Attorney and Never Trump-er George Conway joined the presidential mockery, writing in response to Newsom: Many people, big strong men with tears in their eyes, will soon be saying, Sir, you have the most Amazing State, with the Most Beautiful Maps. No one has ever seen anything like this. Your Excellency, Sir, we are in awe of your Incomparable Gubernatorialicityness.

But not all were on board with Newsoms style change. The Chief Strategy and Public Affairs Officer at Future Caucus, an organization for young lawmakers, Reed Howard, wrote: Race-to-the-bottom politics is a darn shame. America deserves better than this. I want real leadership.

Reporter Alex Gault added: If this becomes a lasting approach to political communications, I will be committing myself to whatever mental hospital still does lobotomies.

Last month, Trump asked Texas to redraw its maps to hand Republicans another five House seats in the state. Texas Democrats left the state to deny Republicans the ability to move forward with their proposal. Democrats then said they would look to redraw maps in blue states such as Illinois, California, and New York, prompting Republicans to consider taking action in Ohio and Indiana.

California has an independent commission that draws political maps, and if Newsom moves ahead with his threat, he would need passage of a special ballot in November.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that Gaza ceasefire efforts are now focused on a comprehensive deal to release all the remaining hostages at once.

The plan previously being pushed was for an initial 60-day truce and partial release of living hostages.

Hamas says a delegation of its leaders is in Cairo for "preliminary talks" with Egyptian officials.

Reports say that mediators see a window of opportunity in the coming weeks to try to push a deal through.

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After indirect talks between Israel and Hamas broke down last month, Israel announced a controversial plan to widen its military offensive and conquer all the Gaza Strip - including the areas where most of its two million Palestinian residents have sought refuge.

However, Israeli media do not expect the new operation to begin until October - allowing time for military preparations, including a mass call-up of reservists.

Meanwhile, intense Israeli strikes have continued in Gaza, and the Hamas-run health ministry said at least 123 Palestinians have been killed in the past day.

Witnesses say that Israel has stepped up its attacks on Gaza City in particular with air strikes destroying homes.

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Footage shows large explosions caused by the strikes and demolitions in the Zaytoun area, to the east of Gaza City.

Early on Wednesday, al-Shifa Hospital said seven members of one family, five of them children, were killed when tents were targeted in Tel al-Hawa, in the south of the city. Al-Ahli Hospital said 10 people were killed in a strike on a house in the Zaytoun area, to the city's east.

The Israeli army said it had begun new operations in Zaytoun.

Israeli military chief Lt Gen Eyal Zamir also "approved the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip", a statement released by the army said.

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In an interview with the i24News Israeli TV Channel shown on Tuesday, Netanyahu was asked if a partial ceasefire was still possible.

"I think it's behind us," he replied. "We tried, we made all kinds of attempts, we went through a lot, but it turned out that they were just misleading us."

"I want all of them," he said of the hostages. "The release of all the hostages, both alive and dead - that's the stage we're at."

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Palestinian armed groups still hold 50 hostages taken in the Hamas-led attack on 7 October 2023 that triggered the war. Israel believes that around 20 of them are still alive.

Netanyahu is under mounting domestic pressure to secure their release as well as over his plans to expand the war.

Last week, unnamed Arab officials were quoted as saying that regional mediators, Egypt and Qatar, were preparing a new framework for a deal that would involve releasing all remaining hostages at the same time in return for an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

However, this will be difficult to do in a short time frame as Israel is demanding that Hamas give up control of Gaza as well as its weapons.

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This is likely to be why, at a news conference on Tuesday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told journalists that Cairo was still "making great efforts" with Qatar and the US - the other mediators - to revive the earlier phased plan.

"The main goal is to return to the original proposal - a 60-day ceasefire - along with the release of some hostages and some Palestinian prisoners, and the flow of humanitarian and medical aid into Gaza without obstacles or conditions," Abdelatty said.

The Israeli prime minister says Israel's goals have not changed. He says that the war will end only when all hostages are returned and Hamas surrenders.

Netanyahu has said that, ultimately, Israel must keep open-ended security control over Gaza.

Attacks on Gaza have continued and may get worse with Israel's planned expansion of its campaign [BASHAR TALEB/AFP via Getty Images]

Hamas has long called for a comprehensive deal to exchange the hostages it is holding for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. It also wants a full pull-out of Israeli forces and an end to the war.

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It refuses to disarm unless an independent Palestinian state is created.

Speaking to i24News, Netanyahu also reiterated an idea that Palestinians should simply leave the territory through "voluntary" emigration, saying: "They're not being pushed out, they'll be allowed to exit."

He went on: "All those who are concerned for the Palestinians and say they want to help the Palestinians should open their gates and stop lecturing us."

Palestinians, human rights groups and many in the international community have warned that any forced displacement of people from Gaza violates international law.

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Many Palestinians fear a repeat of what they call the "Nakba" (Catastrophe) when hundreds of thousands fled or were forced from their homes in the fighting that came before and after the state of Israel was created in 1948.

Most Gazans are descendants of those original refugees and themselves hold official refugee status.

UN-backed experts have warned of widespread famine unfolding in Gaza, where Israel has greatly limited the amount of humanitarian aid it allows in.

The UN's World Food Programme has warned that starvation and malnutrition are at the highest levels in Gaza since the conflict began.

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Hamas's 2023 attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel, with 251 taken into Gaza as hostages.

Israel's offensive has since killed at least 61,722 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. It says that 235 people including 106 children have also died due to starvation and malnutrition.
A 41-year-old man from Twin City, Georgia was arrested after a child molestation investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Invesitgation.

According to the GBI, the Twin City Police Department asked them to investigate Eddie Olajwon Badie in a child molestation case back on July 25.

The GBI took over the investigation and, as a result, Badie was charged with aggravated sodomy, solicitation of sodomy, child molestation and aggravated sexual battery.

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The GBI said Badie was booked into the Emanuel County Jail.

Information about the victim was unavailable.

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The Georgia Department of Transportation awarded $98.1 million in contracts for 24 projects during its June State Transportation Board meeting, the agency announced Tuesday.

The projects include resurfacing, construction and safety projects, and include some projects in Fulton County.

The single-largest safety investment, valued at more than $5.1 million, will upgrade the LED lighting system at I-75/I-85/State Route 401/State Route 403 at Baker Street and Piedmont Avenue and at McGill Boulevard and Courtland Street, both in Fulton County.

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The second-largest safety project, valued at about $4.5 million, will upgrade the LED lighting system at I-75/I-85/State Route 401/State Route 403 at Memorial Drive and Capitol Avenue and the ramp tunnel in Fulton County.

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The second-largest construction project, valued at more than $3.1 million, will construct an elliptical roundabout on State Route 92 (Campbellton-Fairburn Road) at Butner Road/Ridge Road (County Road 1374) in Fulton County.

In the preliminary information about the State Route 92 project, GDOT said crash rates at the intersection are at or above Georgias average for this type of road, with 65 collisions, 43 people were injured and four fatalities reported at the intersection between January 2013 and December 2017.

Other awarded projects include significant investments in resurfacing and construction, with the largest resurfacing project on I-95/State Route 405 in Bryan and Chatham counties valued at more than $24 million. Additionally, the largest construction project involves building roundabouts in Lowndes County, valued at $16 million.

The resurfacing projects, which account for 54% of the total funds awarded, also include a $6.8 million project on State Route 11 in Bibb County. These projects aim to improve road conditions by milling, inlaying and applying plant mix resurfacing.

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Construction projects, representing 27% of the awarded funds, include two roundabouts on State Route 7 BUS in Lowndes County, in addition to the roundabout project on State Route 92 in Fulton County. They also include bridges and approaches in Fulton, Elbert and Laurens counties.

Safety projects make up 19% of the awarded funds. These projects focus on LED lighting, signage and pavement marking upgrades.

For Fiscal Year 2025, Georgia DOT awarded nearly $2.2 billion in construction contracts, with 263 statewide infrastructure projects. These projects include investments in bridges, roads, maintenance, safety and enhancements.

For more information, see the award announcement and supplemental award announcement.

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Contractors and consultants, including Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, registered small businesses and veteran-owned small businesses interested in bidding on projects or performing work must prequalify. Learn more here.

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A view inside the dishwasher production facility at GE Appliances on August 8, 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images for GE Appliances, a Haier company)

GE Appliances announced it will invest more than $3 billion over the next five years in its U.S. operations.

With its global headquarters in Louisville, GE Appliances said Wednesday the first phase of investments will begin at plants in Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina. As part of the investment, the company plans to expand its air conditioning and water heating portfolio, increase product production and further modernize 11 manufacturing plants in the U.S.

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The investment is the second-largest in GE Appliances history and U.S. appliance history, the company said. The largest was the establishment of Appliance Park in Louisville during the 1950s.

GE Appliances announced a $490 million investment to manufacture combo washer/dryers and front-load washers in Louisville earlier this year as part of the first phase of investment. That is expected to create 800 new jobs.

We are defining the future of manufacturing at GE Appliances by investing in our plants, people, and communities, said Kevin Nolan, president and CEO of GE Appliances, in a press release. No other appliance company over the last decade has invested more in U.S. manufacturing than we have, and our $3 billion, five-year plan shows that our commitment to U.S. manufacturing will continue into the future.

Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear praised the investment Wednesday morning. He said the company established Kentucky as Americas destination for advanced manufacturing and job creation and the planned investment shows this iconic companys unwavering belief in the commonwealth and the role we play in their success.

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This new investment highlights Kentuckys ability to support world-class companies with a talented, skilled workforce and the resources needed to not just succeed, but thrive, Beshear said. The continued investment and support from GE Appliances in the Louisville community and across the commonwealth are important factors in our efforts to build a better Kentucky for the future.

The news comes on the heels of other domestic manufacturing plans announced in Kentucky in recent days. Ford Motor Company said Monday it will invest nearly $2 billion to convert a longtime auto manufacturing plant in Louisville to build electric vehicles from a new platform adaptable to multiple vehicle types, aiming to launch a mid-sized EV pickup truck by 2027. Apple said last week it would spend $2.5 billion to fund the expansion of glass manufacturing for iPhones with Corning, a Harrodsburg-based company.
FAUCETT, Mo.  June D. Geiler, 83, of Faucett, Missouri, passed away Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. She was born June 29, 1942, in Wathena, Kansas. She graduated from Benton High School.

June was preceded in death by husband, Charles; parents, Leo and Amy Wood.

Survivors include daughters, Pam Meng, Charlyne Burns and Shelly Lake.

Memorials are requested to the Mid Buchanan Angel fund in care of the Rupp Funeral Home.

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The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday with memorial services to follow at 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Rupp Funeral Home.

Full obituary, online condolence, and public live stream at www.ruppfuneral.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  While the community is still grappling with 8-year-old Genesis Matas brutal death, 17 News spoke with Genesis biological mother to understand what role she plays in this tragedy.

Destiny Delacruz, 26, is Genesis biological mother.

Delacruz said she met Ray Mata Jr. when she was just 14 years old and Mata was 18 years old. That was also when Delacruz had her son.

Two years later, when she was 16, Delacruz gave birth to Genesis.

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Timeline: The last days of Genesis Mata

In 2018, Delacruz gave her kids to Rays mother, reportedly under the belief that they would be in a better environment that way.

Elizabeth Delacruz, Destiny Delacruzs mother, said she would call to ask about the well-being of the two children.

I would call them and they would say the kids were OK, it was all fine, they were going to church, Elizabeth Delacruz said. You know, I believed they were in a good environment.

Elizabeth Delacruz lives in Riverside. She told 17 News she and her daughter were estranged for years and only started talking again last year.

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According to Delacruz, the last time she saw Genesis was in 2018. She said she went on to have three other children with two different men.

One of those relationships led to a felony criminal case filed in September 2023, in which Destiny Delacruz and her boyfriend were charged with torture, mayhem and child cruelty  some of the same charges that Genesis father and stepmother are currently facing.

According to court documents in Delacruzs case, she was living with Emmanuel Aguilar and a 1-year-old boy from another man. Delacruz said she was pregnant with one of Aguilars kids.

Delacruz also said Aguilar didnt treat her 1-year-old child like he was his own, according to the documents.

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Over 1,000 people sign petition demanding investigation into Kern County CPS

Delacruz told investigators she and Aguilar were in a heated argument when Aguilar hit the boy in the face with a sandal, picked him up by his throat and threw him on the couch.

The boy had a skull fracture, bruising all over his body, severe infection on one of his toes and injured ear. Investigators said in the documents the boy would be deaf for life due to the injury.

The court documents dont touch on Delacruzs involvement in the abuse. The documents said Delacruz didnt take the baby to the hospital or call 9-1-1 for fear of being abused herself.

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Delacruz claimed Aguilar abused her as well, the documents said.

Detectives used Delacruzs welfare card to track her to a Dollar Tree store, to where she had driven a Mercedes.

Both Delacruz and Aguilar pleaded no contest to a child cruelty charge, court records show. Aguilar was sentenced to five years in Wasco State Prison and Delacruz received a four-year probation.

According to Delacruz, she was ordered to take parenting classes and completed them. She has been living in Texas for around one year now.

In July, Delacruz was reportedly contacted by a social worker from Kern County Child Protective Services, who told her there was an open case against Mata.

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Delacruz said she returned to Bakersfield to find out what was going on, but never got to see Genesis.

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Genesis died Aug. 1 while Delacruz was still searching for her, she said.

Its hurting her, she must have some kind of guilt inside her. Im sure she does, Elizabeth Delacruz said.

It is still unknown how Mata got custody of Genesis and her brother, or when the abuse started.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
GENEVA  City officials are reviewing final project drawings for a joint water tower project with the county that has been in the works for a long time.

Geneva City Manager Joseph Varckette said the combined project is getting close to going out to bid, and the city is excited that it has received more federal funding than expected. That will reduce the citys portion of the project cost, he said.

Some funding from another project was added to the water tower project, to make a total of $1.728 million in federal funding, and $250,000 from the state, Varckette said. He said the citys total obligation, according to pre-bid numbers, would be $532,700, 35% of the cost, after lengthy negotiations dropped it from 50%.

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Varckette said he is happy with a 17-member Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee that has been put together.

The next step has the entire committee meting for the first time later this month to set the plan for the next eleven months, he said.

Varckette said in addition to the current members on the committee, there will be opportunities for businesses, organizations and representatives of the community to provide input on the plan.

Council discussed street paving in the city, and the potential need to budget more money for side streets affected by the reconstruction of West Main Street. Several council members said they have heard from community members that roads are deteriorating because they have seen more traffic than usual.

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Varckette said discussions regarding paving projects for next year have started.

Streets that have been chip-sealed, and will soon be fog-sealed, are Eastlawn Street, from Centennial Street and Ansel Road, Walnut Street, Kiwanis Park Drive, and West Liberty Street.

Varckette made council aware of discussions regarding proposals from the Trump administration to eliminate the Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership programs.

While theres been no indication this is certain to happen, its important to note as the possibility exists, Varckette said.

Varckette said the West Main Street project is nearing completion after 17 long months.

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The contractor has brought in an additional crew to help start the sanitary service connections, while the main crew continues on the sanitary sewer main, he said.

Residents west of Lockwood and hospital access will need to use West Street only during contractor working hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m, he said. After working hours, West Main will be westbound only.

The installation of storm sewer between Lockwood and West streets is scheduled to continue until Sept. 24, and paving, curbing and sidewalks competed in October, Varckette said of proposed plans.

Varckette said the first phase of the streestcape project is moving along, with bid opening scheduled for Aug. 15. He said the facade program is getting closer to starting, with 20 potential individual projects in the pipeline.

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Varckette said an agreement with the Laborers International Union of North America Local 860 has been completed for 2025-27, and is close to the agreement council approved with the firefighters.

He said negotiations with the police officer and dispatch unions is going well.

Council approved street lighting financing after Geneva Finance Director Traci Welch explained the need for the funding, which is calculated through an Ohio Revised Code formula.

She said electric bills will go up due to the property assessments, but it is essential the services be provided.

Geneva City Solicitor Gary Pasqualone said he will review junk car ordinances to provide more teeth to present ordinances to help give the zoning inspector the ability to do her job and reduce ambiguity in the ordinances.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Georgetown man was sentenced to 29 years in prison after producing child pornography in 2023.

The Eastern Kentucky Department of Justice said in a release on Tuesday that George Brock, 49, used Skype to talk with a minor on Jan. 11, 2023. During their conversation, Brock told the minor to take sexually explicit photos of themself.

According to Brocks plea agreement, the minor did as they were asked.

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The DOJ said that Skype records show similar conversations happened with numerous other minors. Brock even sent the pictures to a friend of his over the internet.

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Brock was convicted of using electronic communication to procure a minor in 2018 after authorities learned Brock was using MeetMe to lure minors into nude modeling in 2016, the release noted.

After his conviction, Brock was required to undergo sex offender supervision and registration requirements for five years, starting in July 2019, according to the DOJ. He violated these requirements when using Skype to make child porn in 2023.

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Under federal law, Brock must serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for release. After being released, the DOJ noted that he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Germany's conservative-led government has launched a drive to rapidly build more gas-fired power plants, fuelling fears about climate policy backsliding and sparking unease even within its own ranks.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's coalition has made reviving Europe's struggling top economy a priority and argues that reliable and affordable energy supplies are crucial for the country's manufacturing titans.

But critics charge the bid to boost fossil fuel production is ideologically driven and highlights a shift away from green policies under the new government.

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Merz leads a coalition that includes his centre-right CDU party and junior partners the centre-left SPD -- but without the Greens, who were in the last administration.

The economy ministry, headed by Katherina Reiche of the CDU, is vocally backing a target of building new gas plants with about 20 gigawatts of power production capacity by 2030.

Reiche, a former energy company executive, has argued it is important to "move very quickly" towards building the plants "in order to maintain a high level of security of supply in our country".

The goal is to have a backup source of power in times there are shortfalls of renewables, which sometimes happens when the sun is not shining or there is not enough wind.

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Supporters say more supply is needed in the short term as nuclear power has been switched off in Germany and coal should follow suit in the coming years.

They argue natural gas -- which emits greenhouse gases but is less polluting than coal -- can bridge the gap until enough renewables come online.

Under German climate law, the share of renewable electricity consumed in the country should rise to 80 percent by 2030. It stood at around 55 percent in 2024, according to the federal environment agency.

- Energy focus-

Earlier this month, the government agreed gas production could begin off a North Sea island in an area straddling the border with the Netherlands, with a Dutch company planning to extract the fossil fuel, sparking condemnation from environmentalists.

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Plans to build more gas plants are not new, and the previous government also wanted to expand capacity, but the new targets are around double those of the past.

Underlining the new government's changing priorities, Reiche's ministry has been renamed the "Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy" -- under the Greens in the previous, SPD-led coalition, it was called the "Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action".

She also appeared at one point to question Germany's legally binding target of achieving greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045, sparking tensions with SPD environment minister Carsten Schneider.

An economy ministry spokesman told AFP that Reiche "stands by" the current climate goal.

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"The government is committed to achieving these targets with the political measures at its disposal -- while maintaining Germany's position as an industrial location," he said.

- 'Dramatic setback' -

The Greens have regularly attacked Reiche while more than 380,000 people have so far signed a petition by campaign group Campact warning her policies risk "a dramatic setback in climate policy".

But criticism is emerging even within the conservatives.

The Climate Union, grouping CDU and other conservative politicians, has warned subsidies for new gas plants could push up power costs, the Handelsblatt financial daily reported.

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Energy think tank Agora Energiewende estimates that only a maximum of 10 gigawatts of extra gas plants would be needed by 2030 to supplement other power sources.

"This will ensure security of supply -- even if coal-fired power plants are taken off the grid as planned," Philipp Godron, the head of the group's power programme, told AFP.

Meanwhile, questions remain over how quickly the plants can be built, while the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, still needs to give its approval.

The economy ministry spokesman told AFP that talks with the EU for putting out tenders for a "significant portion" of the plants were "well-advanced".

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He also stressed that any new gas-fired plants must be "decarbonised in the long term", for example by switching them to green hydrogen, which was necessary "in view of the decarbonisation of the electricity system and compliance with EU law".

sr/fz/lth/tym
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was sailing aboard the training ship Gorch Fock in the port of Bremerhaven on Wednesday, as the city is set to welcome hundreds of vessels as part of its traditional tall ship festival on the North Sea.

Steinmeier greeted the crowd and waved to the onlookers as the vessel sailed past, marking the start of the Sail Bremerhaven 2025 festival.

As patron, Steinmeier is set to officially open the five-day international event in the afternoon.

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The parade of sailing vessels is led by the training ship Alexander von Humboldt II, accompanied by numerous recreational boats. Thousands of spectators are expected to crowd along the promenade in the blazing sun to witness the spectacle.

Around 250 ships from 16 nations are expected in Bremerhaven by Sunday, including historic expedition ships, naval vessels and cruise ships.

The festival is considered one of the largest tall ship gatherings in the world and has been held every five years since 1986. This year, organizers are expecting around 1.2 million visitors.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (L) and his wife Elke Buedenbender (C) visit Sail Bremerhaven on board the German Navy's training sailing ship "Gorch Fock". Leon Kuegeler/Reuters Pool/dpa
BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- With two taps on a screen, soft music plays, and a robotic arm begins to massage. "So comfortable," a guest smiles. "I could lie here all day." This is no ordinary machine. Developed by Chinese firm AUBO (Beijing) Robotics Technology Co., Ltd, it's a collaborative robot, or cobot, capable of sensing, adapting, and responding to its surroundings. It represents a new frontier in automation: embodied intelligence -- machines that don't just think, but also feel. "Welcome to the new face of Chinese manufacturing -- not man versus machine, but man with machine," says Tian Hua, senior manager of AUBO Marketing Department. Once confined to factory floors, cobots are now spilling into healthcare and hospitality. As China transitions toward high-quality, innovation-driven growth, companies like AUBO are positioning cobots not as job-takers, but as partners -- unlocking new potential for small businesses, skilled workers, and daily life.

COLLABORATION, NOT DISPLACEMENT For decades, automation was equated with job loss. But the rise of cobots suggests a new narrative: collaboration over competition. As Tian points to a robot barista, a latte is expertly topped with a flourish of foam art. "It takes 90 seconds to recreate a master's pour," said Tian. "We've deployed these in libraries and Instagrammable spots in Beijing, and they've become instant crowd favorites." It can consistently produce 300 cups of high-quality latte art coffee a day, the equivalent of a human barista working non-stop for 15 hours and still struggling to maintain the same level of quality. "These robots aren't here to replace people," Tian added. "They support human staff by handling repetitive, physically demanding tasks, freeing them up for more valuable, human-focused work." For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China, the pressure is mounting. As labor shortages grow -- particularly with Gen Z steering clear of repetitive factory jobs -- automation has shifted from a luxury to a lifeline. AUBO's cobots, built for easy setup and priced within reach, are helping to bridge that gap. Their best-selling palletizing model, for example, can stack up to nine boxes per minute -- doing the work of three to four human laborers. Sales to small manufacturers now make up more than 40 percent of AUBO's domestic orders, and the share is growing. "We've sold over 35,000 units cumulatively, making us the first in China to surpass 30,000 units, ranking first nationwide and second globally, just behind Universal Robots," Song Zhongkang, director of the AUBO Research Institute, told Xinhua in an interview. "At our peak, annual profits doubled. Growth is now holding steady at around 30-50 percent." But it's not just about efficiency. AUBO's cobots are helping SMEs -- the backbone of China's economy, responsible for over 60 percent of GDP and 80 percent of urban employment -- compete on a global stage, from textile workshops in east China's Zhejiang Province to electronics factories in south China's Guangdong Province. "Beyond SMEs, we also supply top-quality products to leading players in the automotive, 3C, and home appliance sectors," Tian added.

BLUE COLLARS, NEW SKILLS In a country still reliant on a vast blue-collar workforce, AUBO is also investing in education. "Some tasks -- scorching welding, dust-choked painting, or grueling surgeries -- are too harsh for humans," Tian said. "Cobots don't replace workers; they enhance safety and dignity." To bridge the skills gap, AUBO has rolled out over 1,000 training programs in Chinese technical colleges. Thousands of workers, many with no prior coding or automation experience, have transformed into skilled cobot operators, steering machines with a tap and gaining new purpose in an evolving economy. AUBO's cobots -- lightweight, human-safe, and easy to master -- are transforming China's workforce. "No degree needed," said Tian. "Some of our top operators were once packers or cleaners." "I thought automation would take my job," said Liu Wei, a former assembly worker and now a certified technician. "Instead, it gave me a better one with more pay and more control." By relieving workers from repetitive, high-intensity, and hazardous tasks like welding or heavy lifting, AUBO is cultivating a more adaptable, resilient, and future-ready labor force.

LOCAL ROOTS, GLOBAL AMBITIONS AUBO's cobots embody a bold vision: technological independence. Unlike many Chinese firms with foreign ties, AUBO is wholly homegrown, with 100 percent local R&D and manufacturing, driven by a team that includes 10 PhDs and 60 master's degree holders among its 500 global employees. Founder Wei Hongxing, once an aerospace researcher, started the company in a modest 10-person lab under China's "863 Program" for cutting-edge technology. Now boasting over 270 patents, AUBO invests nearly 100 million yuan (13.8 million U.S. dollars) annually in research -- about one-sixth of its revenue. "Not a single foreign chip powers our core systems," Wei said. "True security and scalability come from building your own tools." AUBO Robotics' unwavering commitment to full-stack independence -- from chips to algorithms -- has positioned it as a formidable rival to global robotics giants like ABB, KUKA, and Universal Robots. This year, AUBO achieved a 95 percent domestic production rate, a landmark in China's quest for technological self-reliance. Yet its ambitions extend far beyond home. With over 2,000 partners across 50 countries, the company exports to North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, and advanced markets like Japan, where robotics adoption is among the highest globally. Its products, certified by CE and NRTL standards, command higher profit margins abroad. Overseas markets are experiencing increasing demand. By 2030, the global cobot market is projected to reach 11.6 billion dollars, with Chinese firms, led by AUBO, targeting a 30 percent share, according to the Grand View Research report. "Overseas clients value our adaptability," Tian said. "Our cobots can switch formations and handle diverse orders, deploying in under two hours without needing a full technical crew." Looking forward, AUBO is investing in cloud-connected cobots, AI-powered adaptive controls, and remote surgical robotics. As machines grow smarter, the scope of human collaboration is expanding. Whether on a factory floor or in a cafe, AUBO's vision endures: Humans no longer toil like machines -- because machines now work alongside them.


Germantown High School's Performing Arts Center served as a place for some people who chose to voluntarily evacuate their homes Aug. 12 due to rising river levels and a power outage.

The Germantown Police Department and Germantown Fire Department had canvassed the Riversbend Circle subdivision and attempted to contact residents due to extreme flooding and power outages in the area of County Line Road from Interstate 41 to Appleton Avenue and Wisconsin Highway 175 and the subdivision. Evacuations were not required, the Germantown Police Department said on its Facebook page.

Germantown High School's Performing Arts Center was a temporary shelter for evacuees from the Riversbend Circle subdivision due to rising water following storms Aug. 12.

The district's school resource officer, Toni Olson, who is also a member of the Germantown Police Department, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that a Super 8 hotel near the Performing Arts Center offered rooms for evacuees who needed somewhere to stay overnight.

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Germantown Police Chief Patrick Merten said in an email boats were used to assist some residents from their homes if they needed assistance Aug. 12. He said six to eight residents were taken to Germantown High School by bus while other residents had family or friends pick them up once they got to drier land. He said around 40 residents were evacuated while over 60 residents decided to stay.

"Currently, police are providing security to the neighborhood and only allowing residents that live their back in. Residents were notified by their homeowners association that they could return to their residence," Merten said.

JoEllen Mulder talks about evacuating her Germantown home with a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter at Germantown High School's Performing Arts Center.

One of the Riverbend Circle residents who evacuated, 88-year-old JoEllen Mulder, said large retention ponds behind her home were filling up with water to the point where they were creeping up to people's basements.

"They said it wasn't mandatory, I could stay if I wanted to, but I thought that doesn't make sense. I should just get out of here and go back later and pick up the pieces, whatever they are," Mulder said.

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Mulder said she thought most of the people who evacuated were ones who lived along the ponds. She said the other part of the complex was fine since it's high enough to not be affected.

Mulder said she was concerned about the work it could take to clean up her basement if it floods. She said she is at an age where she can't clean it herself, so she would have to "find the right people who can."

"Everybody else is going to want them to, so we'll have to wait and see how it all works out," Mulder said.

Mulder said she was evacuated by boat because the road was full of water. She said she then transferred to a utility vehicle and then to a Germantown Police Department vehicle, which brought her to the Performing Arts Center. Mulder said she just took her medicine, iPhone, iPad, connectors, money and her wallet and a change of clothes before evacuating.

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While waiting at the center for her son to pick her up, Mulder said she was passing the time by chatting with the other evacuees and eating snacks the center provided. She planned to stay at her son's house for at least the night.

However, resident Terry Zenker, 77, decided to stay. Her residence is not on the side closest to the ponds. She did pack a duffel bag in case she was required to evacuate.

Terry Zenker, a Germantown resident, stayed behind but said she had a duffel bag ready to go in case she's required to evacuate.

"My daughter-in-law's mother called me and she said if I needed to, I could stay there, so they're willing to come and get me," Zenker said.

Zenker said the only thing she was worried about is if the generator working on the sewage pumps stopped working.

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"I hate to think of the smell that will come in," she said.

Contact Alec Johnson at (262) 875-9469 or alec.johnson@jrn.com. Follow him on X (Twitter) at @AlecJohnson12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Germantown High School used as temporary shelter due to river levels
BERLIN (AP)  Germany announced on Wednesday that it will work with a group of Ukraines Western backers to supply a package of military aid to the war-ravaged country worth up to $500 million using a new NATO supply line.

Earlier this month, NATO started coordinating regular deliveries of large weapons packages to Ukraine after the Netherlands said that it would provide air defense equipment, ammunition and other military aid worth 500 million euros ($582 million).

Sweden announced the following day that it would contribute $275 million to a joint effort along with its Nordic neighbors Denmark and Norway to provide $500 million worth of air defenses, anti-tank weapons, ammunition and spare parts.

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Germanys foreign and defense ministries said the support is focused on equipment like critical air defense capabilities. These are urgently needed to defend against Russias ongoing air strikes, which are killing more and more civilians throughout Ukraine.

The United Nations has said that Russias relentless pounding of urban areas behind the front line has killed more than 12,000 Ukrainian civilians.

Two deliveries of equipment, most of it bought in the United States, were scheduled for this month, although the Nordic package was more likely to arrive in September. Germany did not name the group of countries it would be working with.

The equipment is supplied based on Ukraines priority needs on the battlefield. NATO allies then locate the weapons and ammunition and send them on.

Germany has delivered or pledged military support to Ukraine worth around 40 billion euros ($47 billion) since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Germany is facing a wave of summer heat on Wednesday, with temperatures soaring well above 30 degrees Celsius across much of the country.

The German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts highs of around 37 degrees, with only the northern coast expected to be slightly cooler. The heatwave is predicted to intensify on Thursday, potentially reaching 38 degrees.

On Tuesday, the south-western state of Baden-Wurttemberg recorded some of the highest temperatures, with 35.4 degrees measured near the French border.

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Meteorologists stressed that the peak of the heatwave is still ahead.

The DWD has warned of "intense heat" moving into northern Germany on Wednesday, spreading to the eastern regions by Thursday.

Such extreme temperatures pose serious health risks, particularly for elderly people, those with chronic illnesses, and workers without access to air-conditioned workplaces.

Experts say many hospitals and nursing homes in Germany are ill-equipped to cope with the heat.

Henriette Neumeyer, deputy head of the German Hospital Federation (DKG), told the RND media group that most hospitals lack proper air conditioning systems due to years of underinvestment. "This puts a strain on both patients and employees," she said. Currently, many hospitals rely on simpler measures such as shading and fans.

The Hospital Federation is calling for a multi-year investment programme of 31 billion ($36.2 billion) to renovate hospitals with climate-friendly technologies.
Germany will contribute US$500 million to a NATO initiative to supply Ukraine with critical American-made weapons.

Source: NATO's press service, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Germany announced on Wednesday 13 August that it will contribute US$500 million to NATO's Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative to ensure the continued supply of US-made weapons to Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the announcement and recalled that Germany is currently the leading European country in terms of military aid to Ukraine.

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The announcement comes during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys visit to Berlin and high-level talks between European and US leaders ahead of the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Background:

The US and NATO have launched a new mechanism for supplying American weapons to Ukraine  the Priority Ukraine Requirements List (PURL)  which will be funded through contributions from other Alliance members.

The Netherlands has prepared a US$500 million aid package for Ukraine under the PURL, which consists of components and missiles for a Patriot air defence system.

Sweden, Norway and Denmark will jointly allocate about US$500 million.

Latvia has announced that it will contribute at least US$2 million, but the final figure is still being agreed upon.

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Germany will contribute $500 million to a NATO initiative supplying Ukraine with critically needed U.S.-made weapons, the alliance announced on Aug. 13.

The support will come through NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism, which coordinates funding for Kyiv's most urgent battlefield needs.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Berlin's decision, saying the announcement "underlines its commitment to help the Ukrainian people defend their freedom."

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"I commend Germany for stepping up once again," he said. "Germany is the largest European contributor of military aid to Ukraine."

The PURL initiative pools contributions from NATO members to finance American weapons, munitions, and equipment from U.S. stockpiles.

Germany's pledge follows earlier commitments of about $500 million from the Netherlands, as well as contributions from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

The program stems from a July 14 agreement announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, allowing European countries to purchase American arms for Ukraine.

Germany, which committed a record 5 billion euros ($5.65 billion) in military aid to Ukraine in May, has faced criticism for slow weapons deliveries early in the full-scale war but has since become Kyiv's second-largest military backer after the U.S.

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Read also: Russia exceeds monthly recruitment targets, Ukraines military intelligence says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has firmed up its plans to found a new youth organization.

The founding is planned for the end of November in the city of Giessen to the north of Frankfurt. A party spokesman confirmed that the founding meeting is planned for November 29 and 30.

The board of the new organization will be elected there and the name and logo will be decided, he said.

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The anti-immigration party's previous youth wing Junge Alternative (JA) was a largely independent association. It was disbanded at the end of March following a decision by the AfD party conference.

The plan to found a new organization was justified by the party's desire to gain more influence over the party youth.

There was also concern that the JA could be banned after Germany's intelligence services found evidence it had anti-democratic aspirations and classified it as a right-wing extremist organization.

The successor organization is supposed to be more closely linked to the AfD in the future.

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The tabloid newspaper Bild reported that Jean-Pascal Hohm, an AfD member of the Brandenburg state parliament, is being considered as the head of the new organization.

On the social media platform X, Brandenburg AfD state chairman and member of the Bundestag Rene Springer spoke out in favour of putting Hohm at the head of the new organization.

Hohm and four other AfD members of the Brandenburg state parliament were categorized as right-wing extremist by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the domestic intelligence service.
Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has firmed up its plans to found a new youth organization.

The founding is planned for the end of November in the city of Giessen to the north of Frankfurt. A party spokesman confirmed that the founding meeting is planned for November 29 and 30.

The board of the new organization will be elected there and the name and logo will be decided, he said.

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The anti-immigration party's previous youth wing Junge Alternative (JA) was a largely independent association. It was disbanded at the end of March following a decision by the AfD party conference.

The plan to found a new organization was justified by the party's desire to gain more influence over the party youth.

There was also concern that the JA could be banned after Germany's intelligence services found evidence it had anti-democratic aspirations and classified it as a right-wing extremist organization.

The successor organization is supposed to be more closely linked to the AfD in the future.

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The tabloid newspaper Bild reported that Jean-Pascal Hohm, an AfD member of the Brandenburg state parliament, is being considered as the head of the new organization.

On the social media platform X, Brandenburg AfD state chairman and member of the Bundestag Rene Springer spoke out in favour of putting Hohm at the head of the new organization.

Hohm and four other AfD members of the Brandenburg state parliament were categorized as right-wing extremist by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the domestic intelligence service.

The city of Giessen confirmed a planned AfD meeting in November.

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"We can also confirm that there are already two registered demonstrations against this event," a city spokeswoman told dpa.

The city is in constant dialogue with the security authorities, she said. "We are monitoring the situation and are preparing for the situation," the spokeswoman added.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced that the first two stages of large-scale talks involving European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the US leadership have been completed and shared what topics were discussed with US President Donald Trump.

Source: Merz at a joint press conference with Zelenskyy in Berlin, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Merz said that two of the three stages of major video conference talks scheduled for 13 August, ahead of the upcoming meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska, had concluded.

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Quote: "Today we discussed our positions thoroughly with our counterparts from France, the UK, Poland, Finland and Italy as well as [European Commission President] Ursula von der Leyen, [European Council President] Antonio Costa and [NATO Secretary General] Mark Rutte. Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also present We were unanimous in our assessment of the situation and also on what goals can be achieved."

Details: Merz noted that discussions also took place with US President Donald Trump and, after the press briefing, the next stage of talks will start among the coalition of the willing.

The Chancellor revealed the main points brought up in the conversation with Trump.

"We made it clear that Ukraine must be at the negotiating table if there is to be a follow-up meeting. We want the sequence to be right. That means a ceasefire must come first, right from the start. A framework agreement is an important element that could follow later," Merz said.

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"Thirdly, Ukraine is ready to discuss territorial issues, but the starting point will be the line of contact Legal recognition of the occupied territories [as Russian  ed.] is not up for discussion," he added.

Another important condition mentioned was reliable security guarantees for Ukraine.

Merz said the leaders agreed that Trump would first brief Zelenskyy on the content of his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, and only then inform the European leaders.

Quote: "We are doing everything we can to steer this meeting in the right direction."

Background:

Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on the afternoon of 13 August. Spiegel reported that the rather sudden visit had posed a challenge for local police.

Trump expects his meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August to be "constructive", but does not rule out negative outcomes.

Several countries have stressed, ahead of the meeting, that any decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine are unacceptable.

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his chancellery in Berlin, where Zelenskyy arrived for a videoconference with US President Donald Trump and other European leaders.

Source: Bild, as cited by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy arrived by helicopter at the grounds of the German chancellors office, where he was warmly welcomed by Merz.

It is expected that Merz and Zelenskyy will first have lunch together, after which online talks will begin with the participation of European partners and US President Donald Trump, ahead of his summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

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Background:

Zelenskyys spokesperson, Serhii Nykyforov, said that in addition to the videoconference and the bilateral meeting with Merz, an online meeting of the coalition of the willing is planned.

The spokesperson added that following the meeting, at around 16:00 Berlin time, Zelenskyy and Merz may make statements to the media.

Earlier, US media, citing local officials, reported that on Wednesday US President Donald Trump and his Vice President JD Vance would hold a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European allies.

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Demonstrators gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington D.C. to demand fair districting maps. (File photo)

Gerrymandering. Most Americans are familiar with this phenomenon in which politicians rig electoral maps and elections for partisan purposes. But unless youre a serious political observer, you may not be up to speed on just how far out of control this practice has gotten of late or, indeed, how unless something is done soon, it could spiral out of control.

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And make no mistake: the threat is real. Right now, in Texas, Republican legislators are, at the urging of President Trump, attempting to make a mockery of the 2026 midterm elections by rigging congressional maps in unprecedented ways. And this situation is only fueling efforts in other states  by Republicans and Democrats  to follow suit. Its a frightening situation that, as weve seen repeatedly in North Carolina, makes general elections uncompetitive and gives candidates from the middle no chance of winning.

The bottom line: Gerrymandering has come to be one of the greatest threats to American democracy and its essential that congressional leaders at some point soon muster the courage to end it.

For NC Newsline, Im Rob Schofield.
Texas Democrats who fled the state to torpedo a vote on redistricting are quietly making plans to return home, according to reports.

Dozens of state representatives, who left the state to block a redraw of congressional boundaries pushed by Donald Trump, apparently believe they have accomplished their mission by drawing national awareness to the issue, according to ABC News.

Their return will almost inevitably mean the redrawn congressional maps will pass, granting Republicans extra seats that could allow them to keep their narrow majority in the House of Representatives.

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Democrats are expected to return home this weekend after a special session convened by Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas, to pass the new boundaries expires.

They boarded chartered planes on Aug 3 for New York and Chicago to deny the Republicans the quorum to vote on the redistricting effort, since official business in the Texas legislature requires at least 100 members to be present.

Texas representatives watch the roll call tally during a session without Democrats - Nuri Vallbona

The representatives labelled the move a naked power grab by Mr Trump, who has said the Republicans could gain an extra five seats in the House with a simple redrawing of Texas boundaries.

The Democrats have since come under intense pressure from the states Republican leadership to return.

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The representatives, who earn just over $7,000 (5,160) a year, are being fined $500 (370) for every day of absence.

Mr Abbott has vowed to prosecute any Democrat who accepts donations to pay the penalty, and ordered state troopers to arrest them and send them to the capital for the redistricting vote.

JB Pritzker, the billionaire Democratic governor for Illinois, also previously denied having paid the penalties for his colleagues.

John Cornyn, the Texas senator in a primary race, has called for the FBI to locate and return the representatives in exile.

Many seats remained empty during the Texas House meeting on Aug 8 - Brandon Bell/2025 Getty Images

Democrats have also been blamed for holding up emergency relief to victims of flooding in Kerr County last month, which resulted in more than 100 deaths and billions of dollars worth of damage.

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A spokesman for the Texas Democratic Caucus told ABC that state representatives were still working out their options and that their plans could change.

Members are still assessing their strategies going forward and are in a private meeting to make decisions about future plans currently, the spokesman said.

If and when Texas House Democrats breaking quorum decide to go home is squarely dependent on the actions the Governor, Speaker, and Texas Republicans in charge make with regard to prioritising flood victims over redistricting that hurts Texans.

Before the Democrat cohort made plans to return this weekend, the stand-off had threatened to drag on indefinitely.

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Mr Abbott said he planned to keep calling special sessions to vote on the redrawn boundaries, claiming the representatives would have to remain in exile for years to stop the plans going through.

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ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  A girl on a bike was struck by a pickup in Rockford and suffered serious injuries, according to police.

The incident happened at 6th and Spafford around 6:08 p.m.

Authorities said the girl was rushed to a local hospital.

Her current condition is unknown.

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Each summer in the mountains above Juneau, Alaska, meltwater from the massive Mendenhall Glacier flows into mountain lakes and into the Mendenhall River, which runs through town.

Since 2011, scientists and local officials have kept a close eye on one lake in particular: Suicide Basin, an ice-dammed bowl on an arm of the glacier. Glacier ice once covered this area, but as the ice retreated in recent decades, it left behind a large, deep depression.

In the summers of 2023 and 2024, meltwater filled Suicide Basin, overflowed and escaped through tunnels in the ice, sending surges of water downstream that flooded neighborhoods along the river.

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On Aug. 12-13, 2025, the basin flooded again.

The surge of water from Suicide Basin reached record levels at Mendenhall Lake on Aug. 13 on its way toward Juneau, the state capital. Officials urged some neighborhoods to evacuate ahead of the surge. As the water rose, new emergency flood barriers were able to limit the damage.

The glacial flood risks that Juneau is now experiencing each summer are becoming a growing problem in communities around the world. As an Earth scientist and a mountain geographer, we study the impact that ice loss can have on the stability of the surrounding mountain slopes and glacial lakes, and we see several reasons for increasing concern.

Two photo shows the same scene 125 years apart. The glacier loss is evident, and the lake didnt exist in 1893. NOAA/Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center

The growing risk of glacial floods

In many mountain ranges, glaciers are melting as global temperatures rise. Europes Alps and Pyrenees lost 40% of their glacier volume from 2000 to 2023.

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These and other icy regions have provided freshwater for people living downstream for centuries  almost 2 billion people rely on glaciers today. But as glaciers melt faster, they also pose potentially lethal risks.

Water from the melting ice often drains into depressions once occupied by the glacier, creating large lakes. Many of these expanding lakes are held in place by precarious ice dams or rock moraines deposited by the glacier over centuries.

Imja Lake, a glacial lake in the Mount Everest region of Nepal, began as meltwater ponds in 1962 and now contains 90 million cubic meters of water. Its water level was lowered to protect downstream communities. Alton Byers

Too much water behind these dams or a landslide or large ice discharge into the lake can break the dam, sending huge volumes of water and debris sweeping down the mountain valleys, wiping out everything in the way.

The Mendenhall Glacier floods, where glacial ice holds back the water, are classic jokulhlaup, or glacier leap floods, first described in Iceland and now characteristic of Alaska and other northern latitude regions.

Erupting ice dams and landslides

Most glacial lakes began forming over a century ago as a result of warming trends since the 1860s, but their abundance and rates of growth have risen rapidly since the 1960s.

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Many people living in the Himalayas, Andes, Alps, Rocky Mountains, Iceland and Alaska have experienced glacial lake outburst floods of one type or another.

A glacial lake outburst flood in the Sikkim Himalayas in October 2023 damaged more than 30 bridges and destroyed a 200-foot-high (60 meters) hydropower plant. Residents had little warning. By the time the disaster was over, more than 50 people had died.

Avalanches, rockfalls and slope failures can also trigger glacial lake outburst floods.

These are growing more common as frozen ground known as permafrost thaws, robbing mountain landscapes of the cryospheric glue that formerly held them together. These slides can create massive waves when they plummet into a lake. The waves can then rupture the ice dam or moraine, unleashing a flood of water, sediment and debris.

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That dangerous mix can rush downstream at speeds of 20-60 mph (30-100 kph), destroying homes and anything else in its path.

The casualties of such an event can be staggering. In 1941, a huge wave caused by a snow and ice avalanche that fell into Laguna Palcacocha, a glacial lake in the Peruvian Andes, overtopped the moraine dam that had contained the lake for decades. The resulting flood destroyed a large section of the downstream city of Huaraz and killed an estimate 1,800 people.

Teardrop-shaped Lake Palcacocha, shown in this satellite view, has expanded in recent decades. The city of Huaraz, Peru, is just down the valley to the right of the lake. Google Earth, data from Airbus Data SIO, NOAA, U.S. Navy, NGA, GEBCO

In the years since, the danger there has only increased. Laguna Palcacocha has grown to more than 14 times its size in 1941. At the same time, the population of Huaraz has risen to over 120,000 inhabitants. A glacial lake outburst flood today could threaten the lives of an estimated 35,000 people living in the waters path, and efforts to mitigate the danger there are urgently needed.

Governments have responded to this widespread and growing threat by developing early warning systems and programs to identify potentially dangerous glacial lakes. In Juneau, the U.S. Geological Survey starts monitoring Suicide Basin closely when it begins to fill.

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Some governments have taken steps to lower water levels in the lakes or built flood-diversion structures, such as walls of rock-filled wire cages, known as gabions, that divert floodwaters from villages, infrastructure or agricultural fields.

Where the risks cant be managed, communities have been encouraged to use zoning that prohibits building in flood-prone areas. Public education has helped build awareness of the flood risk, but the disasters continue.

Flooding from inside and thawing permafrost

The dramatic nature of glacial lake outburst floods captures headlines, but those arent the only risks.

Englacial conduit floods originate inside of glaciers, commonly on steep slopes. Meltwater can collect inside massive systems of ice caves, or conduits. A sudden surge of water from one cave to another, perhaps triggered by the rapid drainage of a surface pond, can set off a chain reaction that bursts out of the ice as a full-fledged flood.

Thawing mountain permafrost can also trigger floods. This permanently frozen mass of rock, ice and soil has been a fixture at altitudes above 19,685 feet (6,000 meters) for millennia.

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As permafrost thaws, even solid rock becomes less stable and is more prone to breaking, while ice and debris are more likely to become detached and turn into destructive and dangerous debris flows. Thawing permafrost has been increasingly implicated in glacial lake outburst floods because of these new sources of potential triggers.

A glacial outburst flood in Barun Valley started when nearly one-third of the face of Saldim Peak in Nepal fell onto Langmale Glacier and slid into a lake. The top image shows the mountain in 2016. The lower shows the same view in 2017. Elizabeth Byers (2016), Alton Byers (2017)

How mountain regions can reduce the risk

A study published in 2024 counted more than 110,000 glacial lakes around the world and determined 10 million peoples lives and homes are at risk from glacial lake outburst floods.

To help prepare and protect communities, our research points to some key lessons:

Some of the most effective early warning systems have proven to be cellphone alerts. If combined with apps showing real-time water levels at a dangerous glacial lake, residents could more easily assess the danger. Projects to lower glacier lakes arent always effective. In the past, at least two glacial lakes in the Himalayas have been lowered by about 10 feet (3 meters) when studies indicated that closer to 65 feet (20 meters) was needed. In some cases, draining small, emerging lakes before they develop could be more cost effective than waiting until a large and dangerous lake threatens downstream communities. People living in remote mountain regions threatened by glacial lakes need a reliable source of information that can provide regular updates with monitoring technology. Recently it has become clear that even tiny glacial lakes can be dangerous given the right combination of cascading events. These need to be included in any list of potentially dangerous glacial lakes to warn communities downstream.

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The U.N. declared 2025 the International Year of Glaciers Preservation and 2025-2034 the decade of action in cryospheric sciences. Scientists on several continents will be working to understand the risks and find ways to help communities respond to and mitigate the dangers.

This is an update to an article originally published March 19, 2025, to include the latest Alaska flooding.

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: Alton C. Byers, University of Colorado Boulder and Suzanne OConnell, Wesleyan University

Read more:



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Suzanne OConnell receives funding from The National Science Foundation

Alton C. Byers 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.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Nearly six weeks after historic floods killed at least 108 people in Kerr County, including 37 children, the Texas Senate passed several key bills Tuesday aimed at preventing that kind of death toll the next time a major storm strikes.

It will save lives today and it didnt cost a dime to do it, said Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, who chairs the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, adding if these policies are implemented and followed odds are you would have no fatalities.

The three flood-related bills voted out of the Senate address warning sirens, camp evacuations, leadership, training and overall preparedness. Theyre the result of weeks of work done by joint House and Senate committees tasked with responding to the July 4 Hill Country floods. That work included hearing 26 hours of testimony from more than 80 witnesses, Perry said, including a special hearing in Kerrville last month to directly hear from local leaders and residents.

Sen. Charles Perry lays out SB 1 on Aug. 12 (Courtesy Senate of Texas)

You gotta know what youre gonna do before you need to do it and youre gonna be trained to do it, youre gonna be drilled on  it and theres not gonna be Whos on first, whos on third? conversations because everybodys going to have their roles and theres a succession in case you were one that got wiped out, said Perry.

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There was clearly a lack of leadership in Kerr County where no one really was in charge and multiple opportunities to mitigate harm were missed, said Perry.

Lawmaker floats banning camps from flood zones, industry reps react

Under Senate Bill 1, youth camps located in 100-year floodplains would be required to have emergency rooftop access for their cabins and develop emergency evacuation plans. Those plans would need to be carried out when a flash flood warning is issued, with camp owners moving everyone to higher ground.

Period. You dont get an option, said Perry. So, if youre in the 100-year floodplain, and youre responsible for people, then basically you gotta take heed. you have a responsibility at that point to shelter [to] higher ground.

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The bill also requires licenses for emergency management coordinators, training for county judges, sheriffs and mayors, annual emergency drills supervised by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, establishes chain-of-command during disasters and a database of volunteers who have cleared background checks.

There was nobody taking the lead [in Kerr County] so thats gone under SB 1, said Perry. You dont have an option. Youre going to have to have a a leader, somebody in charge, so that when TDEM shows up, or other help, you know who to go to, whos coordinating and where everybodys at.

Lawmakers also discussed purchasing new early warning radars that could be in place within a year at a cost of up to $30 million.

If we can get better at [predicting] where these rain bombs are, maybe Mother Nature will humble us less, said Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham.

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Top Kerr County leaders asleep, too late to issue flood evacuation

Senate Bill 2, which was also voted out, would require outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas and establishes a grant program to help local governments pay to install, maintain and operate them. The bill was introduced by Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, who previously told KXAN that this old technology could be effective in saving lives.

You want to try to get as many chances to get the publics attention that trouble is on the way, he told us three days after the catastrophic floods.

At the special hearing in Kerrville, Bettencourt questioned the president of the Upper Guadalupe River Authority about its lack of sirens.

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You said the wall of water was moving at 17 mph and the camps were seven miles downstream. By my simple Aggie math, thats 24 minutes to act and use sirens to get people to higher ground, Bettencourt said. Now, if we had an integrated river gauge and siren system, as you were already looking at one, do you want to change your response on whether you think a river alert system could have saved lives in this flood?

Yes sir, UGRA President, Dr. William Rector, a medical doctor appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott, said. Theres no question that could save lives.

Under SB 1, as we previously reported, the UGRA would be subject to a limited Sunset review in 2027. At the July 31 hearing in Kerrville, Rector told lawmakers flood sirens were never installed  and its eight property-tax funded river gauges arent locally monitored  with data instead collected by the National Weather Service.

Initial estimates by the Lower Colorado River Authority project it will cost $50 million to install sirens in priority zones, Bettencourt said.

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His bill also requires the Texas Water Development Board to identify areas with a history of severe flooding.

Testimony after testimony confirms flood warning sirens are proven, effective and can save lives immediately by getting folks to higher ground, Bettencourt said in a statement after the vote.

Central Texas will also get needed relief money to help pay for the response and recovery efforts. Under Senate Bill 3, $200 million will supplement Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, funds; $50 million will be allocated for the purchase of sirens, rain gauges and other equipment in the Central Texas flood region; $24 million to develop enhanced weather forecast systems and $20 million for a new swift water training facility.

Our goal, Kolkhorst added, is to save lives.

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In a statement after Tuesdays votes, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, R-Texas, praised the comprehensive slate of bills that now head to the Texas House.

This bipartisan package is a crucial step in helping communities recover from last months devastating events, Patrick said, and in reducing the risk to human life in future disasters.

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Aug. 12The Austin Public Schools Board on Monday approved both the board and superintendent goals, both of which set their eyes on a better running of the school at the internal level.

The board's goal rests on establishing a better understanding and application of effective governance, accountability and communication via standards set by the Minnesota School Boards Association.

Beneath the umbrella of this goal, board members will complete Phase III and Phase IV training before March of 2026 as well as holding quarterly governance check-ins during study sessions throughout the year.

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They will meet a minimum of four times and all of it is to be completed by June 30, 2026.

Along with the board's goal, the body approved the three-year Board Governance Plan.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Dr. Joey Page's goals are two-fold and will focus on both the upcoming two-question referendum as well as internal work that aligns with the board's goal but also will address the climate of the district, something that has been a concern since deep into last school year.

In July, the board approved a special election in November for a referendum that first asks for $54.7 million spread across eight buildings in the district focusing on upgrades that include safety, security and accessibility improvements.

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Depending on the passage of the first question, a second question asks for $12 million for renovation of the 50-year-old Bud Higgins Pool at Ellis Middle School. In total, the district is asking voters to approve $66.7 million.

The first of Page's two goals would see Page to lead a transparent and inclusive referendum communication plan that will better the public's understanding of the vote and the district's financial policy.

The second goal, set to be concluded by June 30, 2026, will have Page working to strengthen the culture of the district along with clarifying leadership roles and gathering staff climate feedback. He is also co-leading board development in concert with the board's goal.

The climate question has been a long-standing issue within the district, with low morale from leadership questions and a feeling of not being appreciated or heard leading to some teachers leaving the district.

"His goals are definitely reflective of the conversations that we've had and the direction we want to see the district going in," Board Chair Carolyn Dube said.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Town of Killian provided an update on its water system.

The system is currently being operated by Waggoner Engineering. The engineering service is responsible for water quality compliance, preventive maintenance, and emergency response, according to town leaders.

There is a plan in the works to sell the water system to Magnolia Water, per the recommendation of the Governors Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP).

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GOHSEP determined that selling the water system is the most viable long-term solution.

The attorneys for Magnolia Water, GOHSEP, and the Town of Killian are discussing the terms of the sale.

Officials stated that when key terms are agreed upon, a purchase agreement will be drafted by legal counsel.

The town highlighted that Magnolia runs multiple water and wastewater systems in the South, and this will allow them to integrate the Killian Water System efficiently and sustain compliance with state and federal regulations.

The Louisiana Department of Health gave the water system in Killian a D in 2024.

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During that same year, bacteria were found in a sample that was taken from a well in Killian.

Proposals wanted for Ascension Parish residential area buyout, relocation plan

The town recently posted a message asking people to conserve water.

According to the town, updates will be provided periodically.

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DENVER (KDVR)  State lawmakers will be back to work at the state Capitol next week.

While the billion-dollar budget shortfall is the main reason for the special session, the governor has called on lawmakers to work on other things, too, like skyrocketing health insurance premiums.

State lawmakers want federal lawmakers to act on this, but because of uncertainty in Congress, the governor is telling folks at the Capitol not to wait.

Polis calls special session, announces hiring freeze amid $700 million hole in Colorado budget

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Most families are looking at their healthcare costs and struggling to meet those needs with rising costs everywhere else. This is going to be devastating, said U.S. Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen. The former state lawmaker does not envy her former colleagues at the state capitol and the work ahead of them to solve the states budget crisis.

State lawmakers are coming back to cut almost a billion dollars out of our state budget because of this bill and the impact its going to have on our budget for critical services that we all rely on, Pettersen said.

Lawmakers have noted the states tax code mirrors federal policy. State health coverage is connected to the federal government, too.

The states health insurance market was made possible by federal policy. When the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010, it allowed states to create their own state-based health insurance exchanges. Colorado and 18 other states, along with Washington D.C., have their own marketplaces; Colorados is called Connect for Health Colorado.

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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act made some changes to the Affordable Care Act, but it did not renew enhanced premium tax credits: subsidies that kept monthly premiums low for Coloradans using the state marketplace. Those changes, plus the credits going away, have state lawmakers seeking help from the states congressional delegation.

Everyone will feel significant and dramatic increases. It really depends on where you live in the state but regardless, its an increase that families and individuals cannot afford right now. Were working hard to figure out what we can do as a state to bring down those costs on the individual marketplace. We just sent a letter to the entire congressional delegation, begging them to extend these tax credits so that families are not impacted, said Colorado Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie.

Colorado combat veteran who earned Purple Heart detained by ICE, facing deportation

Republicans in Congress have not shown any interest in extending the credits. Pettersen, a member of the Financial Services Committee in Congress, said the public may have to push for action.



We should all join together to make sure that these tax credits continue. Otherwise, Coloradans are going to immediately see rising costs, Pettersen said. Its really going to be constituents reaching out and making sure their Republican representatives know that whats at stake, what they need to do to address these challenges and I think thats the only hope that we have; that we have enough local pressure to that we can actually come to the table to make sure these are enacted.

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McCluskie said people living in the Denver metro are expected to see an increase of about $2,000 to $3,000 a year in health insurance premium costs if things dont change. The costs are expected to be even higher for people living on the Western Slope. The governor put health insurance work in the call for the upcoming special session.

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GOSHEN  Goshen Community Schools Board of Trustees held a public hearing and a second preliminary determination hearing for the series of proposed construction projects. The first preliminary determination hearing was held on July 14.

The projects include the second round of work on the HVAC system at Goshen Junior High School, for about $4.3 million; asphalt and other projects behind the junior high; and carpeting for Parkside and the junior high, among other improvements.

A hearing is required when the school board intends to spend more than $1 million.

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The school corporations current debt service fund tax rate is $0.5343 per $100 of assessed valuation, according to the district. After the school corporations bonds are issued, the gross debt service fund levy will increase by a maximum of $6.5 million and the gross debt service fund tax rate will increase by a maximum of $0.3253 per $100 assessed valuation. Due to maturing obligations, the district also states that the net increase to the debt service fund levy is expected to be $0.00 above the current levy.

The total cost is estimated at $8.4 million but because of other debt falling off, there will be no tax increase.

In addition and relatedly, Resolution 829, Approval of Project Resolution, Resolution 830, Approval of Preliminary Determination Resolution, Resolution 831, Approval of Preliminary Bond Resolution, and Resolution 832, Approval of Declaration of Official Intent to Reimburse Expenditures, were also all approved.

OTHER BOARD ITEMS

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The board also approved a resolution to authorize joining in litigation against social media companies, as requested by Superintendent Jim DuBois.

Board member Ryan Glick asked about the goal of joining the lawsuit.

I dont know all the motivations behind it, but I would say that, for us here, what were hoping happens is there is some  its very addictive. Social media hits the parts of the brain that  other addictions do. To do that and know that children are that addicted to it, and then use that for purposes that are not good for kids, DuBois said. For me, its about hopefully, well have some constraints put on that, there has to be more control.

DuBois said he doesnt anticipate the district receiving much money from it, but rather to bring attention to the issue.

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Initially scheduled as part of the bond in hearing, Chief Financial Officer Bob Evans said the district had the opportunity to get the asphalt at Goshen Junior High School completed a year early. So theres the ability to have the track finished in September, by adding a topcoat. The board approved the topcoat. The track is currently usable, but the rubberized top is preferred.

The board approved the adoption of curriculums for Acadience Reading Program and IXL.

The board approved a district marketing campaign with WNDU for roughly $8,700. Board member Jose Elizalde asked what the goal was. Superintendent Alan Metcalfe said it would encourage possible participants in CTE programming but also inform current students and parents of opportunities currently available in the district.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Governor Gavin Newsom and his press office are mimicking President Donald Trumps flamboyant writing style on social media this week by penning posts with all capital letters, self-praising declarations, and condescending tones.

The governors X page proudly declared that Newsom is THE MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR in America.

In another X post, the governor claimed that many people refer to Trump as President Donald Taco Trump, characterized Trump as a criminal, and torpedoed MAGA trolls as pathetic and weak.

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Newsoms new writing style was unleashed in the middle of a congressional map re-drawing battle between liberal blue California and conservative red states.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom talks onstage with Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff during Salesforces 2024 Dreamforce in San Francisco. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Newsom gave a 24-hour deadline Tuesday for Trump to abandon efforts to draw new congressional maps in Texas that would help Republicans pick up more U.S. House of Representatives seats in the 2026 midterm election.

The governors press office wrote on X, FINAL WARNING DONALD TRUMP  MAYBE THE MOST IMPORTANT WARNING IN HISTORY! STOP CHEATING OR CALIFORNIA WILL REDRAW THE MAPS. AND GUESS WHO WILL ANNOUNCE IT THIS WEEK? GAVIN NEWSOM (MANY SAY THE MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR) AND A VERY POWERFUL TEAM. DONT MAKE US DO IT!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.

President Trump takes questions after announcing an additional $100 billion Apple investment in the U.S., which now will total over $600 billion over the next four years, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

On Wednesday, the governor said Trump missed his deadline by failing to respond to Newsoms demand letter. As a result, the governor announced he will move forward with his plan to counteract Trumps plan by re-drawing Californias congressional maps in a way that helps Democrats win more seats for the 2026 midterms.

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Newsom said Californias new maps will pave the way for Republicans losing control over the U.S. House.

Newsom borrowed key words often used in Trumps speeches for his follow-up X post, writing, DONALD TACO J. TRUMP  MISSED A SIMPLE DEADLINE  SOMETHING HE HAS OFTEN DONE WITH HIS MANY FAILED BUSINESSES  NOW CALIFORNIA WILL FIRE HIM WITH NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS. HIGHLY ANTICIPATED, HISTORIC PRESS CONFERENCE WITH YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR GAVIN CHRISTOPHER NEWSOM!!!!

The governor signed his posts with his full names initials, GCN.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom campaigns for then-President Joe Biden on July 4, 2024 in South Haven, Michigan (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)

Changing congressional maps to ensure one political partys victory over another is called gerrymandering. President Trump is calling on Texas to blatantly carry out gerrymandering so that Republicans retain control of the House.

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Trump was previously banned from Xs platform while he had millions of followers and the platform was still named Twitter. In 2021, Twitter said it locked Trumps account because of his tweets rejecting presidential election results after he lost re-election. The New York Times described Trumps post-election tweets as inaccurate and inflammatory.

Billionaire Elon Musk bought Twitter in 2022, changed its name to X, allowed Trump to return to the platform, and moved the companys headquarters out of San Francisco.

Trump now uses Truth Social, which he launched in 2022, as his primary social media platform. In a Wednesday Truth Social post, the President wrote, Wow! Highest polling Republican President in HISTORY! Thank you. He also wrote about the medias coverage of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at the White House on August 11, 2025 about his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. (Photo by Chen Mengtong/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

Trump wrote, Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won. Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The Fake News is working overtime. If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal! But now theyve been caught. Look at all of the real news thats coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country. But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!! MAGA.

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The President did not respond on Truth Social to Newsoms congressional map demands.

Newsom said he will hold a news conference later this week. He wrote on X Wednesday afternoon, TREMENDOUS WORK IS BEING DONE. DONALD TRUMP (THE CRIMINAL PRESIDENT) GET READY FOR THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PAYBACK YOUVE EVER SEEN!!! COULD BE THE WORST DAY OF YOUR LIFE AS YOUR PRESIDENCY ENDS (DEMS RETAKE CONGRESS!). AMERICA WILL BE LIBERATED  LIBERATION DAY MANY ARE CALLING IT!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GCN.

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RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY)  Gov. Glenn Youngkin directed Virginia State Police to open a criminal investigation into Fairfax County Public Schools Wednesday after allegations of staff members facilitated abortions for minors without parental consent.

Reports the governors office received allegedly say that school administration may have known this was happening and that school funding may have been used, which could include local, state and federal funds.

I am deeply concerned with the allegations that Fairfax County Public Schools officials arranged for minors to get abortions without parental consent and may have misused public funds to pay for them. I am directing the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation to open a full criminal investigation into the matter immediately, said Youngkin.

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The reports also alleges that school officials may have paid and arranged for multiple abortions for minors without the parents knowledge.

Those with information are encouraged to contact the Virginia State Police at vfc@vfc.vsp.virginia.gov or (804) 674-2196.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Federal prosecutors said Wednesday the defense for one of two men accused of murdering a letter carrier in Warren has not met the burden for disclosure of the identity of a cooperating witness  if there is one.

In papers filed before U.S. Judge Donald C. Nugent in the U.S. Northern District Court of Ohio, the government said it would not confirm or deny it has a cooperating witness.

The papers were filed in response to an earlier motion filed by attorneys for Thomas Sledge, 44, who is charged with the March 2, 2024, shooting death of Jonte Davis, 33, at Washington Street NE and Olive Avenue NE while Davis was delivering mail.

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Also charged is Kaprise Sledge, 24, the son of Thomas Sledge.

The two are eligible for the death penalty if convicted, but the government has yet to decide if it will seek the death penalty. A trial date has not been set yet. Court records show a hearing will be held on Wednesday for both men before Judge Nugent to discuss discovery issues.

The government said in its motion that under prior case law, the defense has failed to show that disclosure of the information would substantively aid in his defense and the defendants mere speculation on the possible testimony of a potential cooperator is insufficient to overcome the privilege.

The government also said that it has been complying with a discovery order July 28 to disclose information obtained from a warrant to search Kaprise Sledges phone that was seized by Warren police in March 2024.

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The phone was not able to be accessed until July 11, the government said, and it would be providing information to the defense for both men as it becomes available.

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The Brief

Sedro-Woolley's mayor is urging Governor Ferguson to reject a proposed lithium battery facility, citing fire and environmental concerns.

The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) is reviewing the project, with the governor having the final decision.

Similar concerns arise in Covington over another battery facility site near a school, with local opposition mounting.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. - The fate of a proposed lithium battery facility near downtown Sedro-Woolley may hinge on Governor Bob Ferguson's decision.

What they're saying

Sedro-Woolley Mayor Julia Johnson is urging the governor to reject the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project, citing fire and environmental concerns.

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"Not only the city of Sedro-Woolley, but the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe and the Skagit Farm Bureau are all opposed to this. We have all written letters to Governor Ferguson protesting this," Johnson said.

The project, known as Goldeneye, was initially developed by Tenaska. However, FOX 13 has learned that Tenaska has since exited the project. Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), based in Denmark, is now the main developer, with its subsidiary Goldfinch Energy Storage moving forward.

"Tenaskas early-stage development role on behalf of Goldfinch Energy Storage, which is part of CIPs energy portfolio across the country, concluded earlier this year," CIP stated.

The proposed site for the BESS facility is located along Minkler Road, less than half a mile from a Puget Sound Energy substation, making it an attractive location for energy storage with thousands of lithium batteries.

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However, concerns have been raised about potential fires and their impact on nearby Hanson Creek. Goldfinch Energy responded, stating, "In the unlikely event of a fire, there can be a temporary impact on localized air quality similar to residential or commercial fires. However, the Goldeneye project is designed to ensure safe dispersal levels at the fence line, posing no risk to the surrounding community or environment, which will be verified in the EFSEC permitting process prior to project approval."

The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) is evaluating the Goldeneye project.

EFSEC was created by the state legislature in 1970 and currently consists of six members, including Chair Kurt Beckett.

Beckett was appointed by Gov. Ferguson. EFSEC has the power to greenlight different kinds of controversial energy projects.

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After a thorough review, EFSEC makes a recommendation to either approve or deny a project, but the governor has the final say.

Mayor Johnson expressed concerns about EFSEC's ability to bypass local communities. EFSEC responded, stating, "EFSEC statute requires a local representative to sit on the council for every project we evaluate. EFSEC also invites participation by local government agencies such as planning departments and fire districts. The local government representative has a vote in every council action."

FOX 13 asked who the local representative is for Goldeneye and EFSEC says its Robby Eckroth, a senior planner for Skagit County.

Dig deeper

Meanwhile, in Covington, residents are upset over the Kingfisher project, which is another proposed BESS site near Mattson Middle School. Similar to the Sedro-Woolley case, Tenaska laid the ground running, but its now in the hands of CIP and Goldfinch Energy Storage.

Many residents, including James Delay, are closely monitoring any developments.

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"Our state, actually our whole country, needs safety-first protocols and regulations that protect citizens," Delay said.

The push for BESS sites stems from former Gov. Jay Inslees mandate that Washington obtain electricity from sources that release no carbon by 2045, known as the Clean Energy Transformation Act. While supporters argue for a cleaner future, opponents like Delay express concerns about the use of lithium batteries.

"What we are opposing specifically is the use of lithium batteries in energy storage, and thats solely because lithium has proven over the last three decades that its completely uncontrollable," Delay said.

Since 2019, there have been 22 BESS fires across the U.S., according to the Western Electricity Coordinating Council. Delay believes a lithium battery site is too risky next to a school with hundreds of kids and many homes.

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The Covington city council has opposed Kingfishers location on Southeast 251st Street. The Kent School District has also expressed their concerns, calling the site inappropriate.

As of now, the Covington project has not been submitted to EFSEC yet for consideration.

FOX 13 reached out to Governor Fergusons Office about concerns over BESS projects, specifically with the Goldeneye project, which is under analysis with EFSEC. Fergusons Office did not get back to FOX 13 with a response to those concerns.

The Source

Information in this story came from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council, and original FOX 13 Seattle reporting and interviews.

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Gov. Phil Murphy speaks before signing legislation establishing the Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program at MAC Products Inc. in Kearny on Aug. 13, 2025. (Jake Hirsch/Governors Office)

Gov. Phil Murphy signed bipartisan legislation Thursday creating a $500 million tax credit program for manufacturing businesses in a bid to expand in-state manufacturing and spur job creation, with a focus on clean energy industries.

Murphy signed the bill at Mac Products, a family-owned manufacturing business in Kearny that makes electrical distribution and transmission products. The governor, a Democrat, said the tax credit program, to be administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, is designed to position the state as a manufacturing leader.

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With the most skilled workforce in the world, we have a unique opportunity to not only make our businesses more competitive today, but to prepare them to lead their respective industries for decades to come, Murphy said.

The new initiative will award tax credits to eligible businesses in industries such as advanced manufacturing, nonretail food and beverage, defense, clean energy, and life sciences.

State Sen. Mike Testa (R-Cumberland), one of the bills chief sponsors, called the measure an example of government working on a nonpartisan basis. Testa referred to a sign he has in his office that replicates the famous Trenton makes  the world takes slogan seen on the Lower Trenton Bridge.

This bill will go a long way to making sure that means something once again and remains meaning something 50, 60, 75 years to come, he said.

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For the first two years, $100 million in tax credits will be reserved for clean energy product manufacturers in solar, geothermal, and green hydrogen. Unused funds from that allocation will later be shifted to general manufacturing projects.

Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, said the program is designed to reward companies that meet their commitments to invest in New Jersey.

If you promise youre going to do something, and you do it, you get the tax credits. If you dont, you dont get the tax credits, Sullivan said.

Funding for the tax credits will come from reallocating money from the states existing Aspire and Emerge tax incentive programs, not from new spending, Murphy noted. Those two programs are expected to issue $6.6 billion in tax credits over their lives.

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Business groups support the move.

This law represents a significant and targeted investment for New Jerseys manufacturing sector and our economy, with no new additional funding required, New Jersey Business & Industry Association President and CEO Michele Siekerka said in a statement. It will support much-needed workforce development in manufacturing amid both federal tariff and supply chain uncertainty that challenges these important businesses.

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(The Center Square)  After an Illinois state senator filed legislation to streamline permits for nuclear energy projects, Gov J.B. Pritzker suggested ending the states moratorium on new large-scale nuclear plants.

When asked about high energy costs at the Illinois State Fair Wednesday, the governor said Illinois could do something important by lifting the decades-old moratorium.

We already got rid of it on small modular nuclear. We can do that on large nuclear. Its going to be an important part of a transition to renewable energy everywhere, Pritzker said.

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State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, has proposed several pieces of legislation to end Illinois ban on new nuclear power plants.

Pritzker vetoed one of Rezins measures in 2023. Later that year, the governor signed Rezins bill to end the moratorium on small modular reactors (SMRs).

Legislation to end the moratorium on large-scale projects did not clear the General Assembly last spring.

In order to have enough power for the new economy, the AI economy, its important that we have reliable capacity power available to us at the lowest cost, which is nuclear, Rezin told The Center Square.

James Walker, a nuclear physicist for NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. said data centers and artificial intelligence centers are power-intensive.

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You cant sustain those on wind or solar. You would need a higher baseload power. The good thing about the new generation of nuclear is that you dont even need to upgrade your local infrastructure, Walker told The Center Square.

Last month, Rezin introduced Senate Bill 2681 to streamline the permitting process for small reactors.

My bill mandates that all state agencies act on permit applications for SMRs within 150 days of the application being deemed complete, Rezin explained.

The Morris Republican added that if no action is taken within that time period, the application would be considered approved unless an extension was granted.

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Rezin said that if Illinois doesnt act, companies will go to neighboring states.

They can go to Indiana, which many of the tech companies are building out in Indiana and Wisconsin, because they have already passed these similar bills that provide reliability and predictability for companies who are looking to invest very significant amounts of money; billions of dollars of investments, Rezin said.

Rezin said she hopes SB 2681 is called during the fall veto session.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol seized these 207 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop, the most ever captured by the agency, according to a news release on Aug. 11, 2025. (Courtesy of Governor's Office)

The South Dakota Attorney Generals Office said Tuesday that the suspect in the recent seizure of 207 pounds of crystal methamphetamine has been indicted on two state felony counts and could face additional federal charges.

The office also identified the suspect as 42-year-old Alonso Molinacorona and said the arrest occurred Friday night on Interstate 90 in Sturgis, which was during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

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Meth of any amount is dangerous, but distribution of meth with a street value of $12 million would have led to grave consequences for our citizens, Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a news release. I appreciate the excellent work of the South Dakota Highway Patrol in stopping and arresting this defendant.

Jackley said a trooper stopped Melinacorona for speeding before discovering the drugs.

The updates from Jackley came one day after Gov. Larry Rhoden announced the arrest and described the suspect as a man who is not a U.S. citizen, but did not disclose the suspects name. Rhoden described it as the Highway Patrols largest-ever meth seizure.

Jackleys office listed Molinacoronas address as Fresno, California, and said he is a Mexican citizen.

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According to Jackley, the Meade County grand jury indictment charges Molinacorona with possessing more than 5 grams of meth with intent to distribute, and an alternate count of unauthorized possession of a controlled drug or substance. If convicted of the first count, he would face a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison and a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $30,000 fine. The alternate count has a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Molinacorona made his first appearance in Meade County Court on Monday and pleaded not guilty. He is being held without bond.

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JOPLIN, Mo.  Three generations of a southeast Kansas family, a grandmother, mother, and granddaughter, all have something in common: each had successful open heart surgery.

The most recent, the 31-year-old granddaughter, who is currently recovering from her surgery just last month.

We spoke to all three women about their deep respect for the Mercy Joplin doctor who cared for each of them.

Thank goodness that we had the doctors that we had. Thank God.

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This story of generational survival begins in 2016 with Alysha Parker.

I just started having pains in my chest and then it went down both my arms, continued Parker.

Testing would soon reveal she needed bypass surgery.

I never had a heart attack, but it was right there. On the verge, they said. And they brought me down here and I had three blockages, but didnt know.

Fast forward to 2022, when Alyshas mom, Joyce, was at work and just didnt feel well.

My heart felt like it was kind of fluttering, and they said, Well, you need to go to Urgent Care. So I went to Urgent Care, and they said, Well, you need to go to the emergency room. So I went there, and I was having a heart attack then, said Joyce Young, who also had bypass surgery in 2022.

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After watching her daughter go through bypass surgery just a few years earlier, as well as several others in her family, Joyce knew it was about to be her fate, too.

My dad had had it. My first husband had had it. And Alysha had had it. And I knew what I was going to go through, said Joyce.

Fast forward once more to Summer 2025 just weeks ago.

Little did Joyce or Alysha know that same fate was waiting for the next generation with 30-year-old Robin Jackson.

It was just a normal day. I was mowing the yard and I thought I was having a heat stroke. It was not a heat stroke, said Jackson.

Dr. Junaid Haroon, Mercy Joplin Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Being in this community three years, its a little surprising that Ive already taken care of the three generations of the same family. And definitely not common to do this in such a short period of time, said Dr. Junaid Haroon, Mercy Joplin Cardiothoracic Surgeon.

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Mercy Joplins Dr. Junaid Haroon performed both Robin and Joyces procedures and has helped Alysha with her continued recovery.

An immense amount of gratitude that the family would choose me over, and over, and over again to take care of them. You know, get them through such a major operation, Im extremely grateful, said Dr. Haroon.

All three women are doing well and are working on making lifestyle changes suggested by Dr. Haroon.

The hope is their quality of life will return back to normal, they can live a fully functional life. Their hearts are working like they normally should.

In fact, Robin celebrated her 31st birthday on the day we interviewed her and shes grateful for Dr. Haroon because she can still be around to watch her two boys grow up.

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I want him to know how good of a person he is. The way he talks to you, the way he treats you, its not like a normal doctor. Its like a person talking to you. Its not just, Hey, Im your doctor. Youve got to listen to me. Its, Hey, Im your doctor but I care for you, and I want to know your story, said Jackson.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) commemorated a Mississippi Medal of Honor recipient in a very unique way.

In 2018, AUSA began publishing a graphic novel series to commemorate Medal of Honor recipients across the country. One of its newest graphic novels for 2025 honors U.S. Army Colonel Van Thomas Barfoot. The Edinburg native received the military honor during WWII for advancing through a minefield in Italy to take out Nazi machine gunners and a tank in 1944.

Cover of Medal of Honor graphic novel for Army Colonel Van Thomas Barfoot (Courtesy: Association of the United States Army)

AUSAs graphic novel detailed Barfoots life and military career. Growing up, he took care of the family farm with his eight siblings. Barfoot elected to enlist in the U.S. Army in 1940. Much of his fighting experience in World War II occurred in Italy, which was part of the Axis Powers.

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Mississippi is worst state for disabled veterans: report

On many patrols of the area, Barfoot became quite familiar with the Italian town of Carano. Allied forces struggled to gain ground, so in May 1944, Barfoot volunteered to go deep into enemy territory to help break ground on the military front. He travelled through mine-laden territory to ambush Nazi troops and to advance the U.S. Armys position on the battlefield.

By himself, Barfoot entered enemy lines to gain ground for American troops. He used a grenade and his submachine gun to kill and capture enemy soldiers. He even used a rocket launcher to disable a tank.

Barfoot further led his squad into enemy territory to fortify their new gains on the battlefield. He even led two injured soldiers to safety. In September of that year, Barfoot received the Medal of Honor. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, he is one of 33 men of Native American heritage to earn the Medal of Honor. His maternal grandmother was a member of the Choctaw Nation.

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The World War II Veteran who enlisted before Americas involvement in World War II also served in Korea and Vietnam. Barfoot retired in 1974 as senior Army advisor to the Virginia National Guard. Barfoot died in 2012 following complications from a fall that fractured his skull; he was 92 years old.

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Greece is facing its toughest days yet of this year's wildfire season, a senior firefighting official said on Wednesday, after dozens of new blazes erupted in a single day and extreme weather hampers extinguishing efforts.

Strong winds, prolonged dryness and intense heat have worsened conditions across much of the mainland and on the islands, forcing evacuations and dramatic rescue operations in recent days.

Kostas Tsingas, head of the fire brigade officers association, told broadcaster ERTNews that 82 new fires were recorded across the country on Tuesday alone, a number he called "exceptionally high."

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The situation is particularly dangerous near the western city of Patras, on the hard-hit Peloponnese peninsula, where two large fires are burning.

Major blazes are also raging in the region of Preveza in the north-west, as well as on the islands of Zakynthos and Chios.

On Chios, the coastguard picked up dozens of people at the small harbour of the village of Limnia because the smoke was so intense.

In addition, countless embers, fanned by the wind, can flare into new fires within minutes, the fire service said.

Around 5,000 firefighters are now engaged in the nationwide effort.

"The men and women of the fire service are exhausted. Their work is heroic," said Tsingas.

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Since daybreak on Wednesday, dozens of firefighting planes and helicopters have been deployed again in the affected areas.

Greece has requested help from fellow European Union members and applied for four firefighting aircraft through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
GRESHAM, Ore. (KOIN)  Though it was a formal ceremony at Gresham Fire Station 71, it felt a bit like a family reunion.

Friends, family and State Sen. Chris Gorsek were there to honor Brian Flowers, who spent 15 years with the Gresham FD before he lost his battle to leukemia linked to firefighting in 2023. Gorsek was there to officially present the highest honor the Oregon legislature can bestow  a unanimous resolution honoring Flowers life and legacy.

Teens not guilty in deaths of men who killed each other

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Elsie Flowers, holding back tears, is calling for better protections and support for firefighters, especially around cancer risks on the job.

There will be good out of this. Brian is going to make change, she told KOIN 6 News. There has to be because the loss is too great. And I just cant let that go.

Late Gresham firefighter Brian Flowers (Courtesy Gresham Fire Department)

Gorsek said hes working on new laws for the next legislative session.

A firefighter should not be exposed to a cancer-causing agent, he said.

For Elsie, the worry is now twice as heavy. She lost her husband to occupational cancer, and now their son, Darian, faces the same dangers on the job.

Elsie Flowers gets a hug a ceremony to honor her late husband, Gresham Firefighter Brian Flowers, at Gresham Fire Station 71, August 12, 2025 (KOIN)

Darian Flowers followed his dads footsteps as a Gresham firefighter and EMT. He started his career just weeks before his dads cancer diagnosis and never got a chance to work with him.

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It would have been a lot of laughs because hes a very funny dude, my dad was. And they say they see a lot of that in me, Darian said.

Oregon tourism suffers as Canadians boycott US over Trump

He understands the inherent dangers of being a firefighter, including the long-term implications.

We can do our best to clean ourselves off but you can only do so much with what youre given, he said.

Gresham firefighter Darian Flowers at a ceremony to honor his dad, late Gresham Firefighter Brian Flowers, at Gresham Fire Station 71, August 12, 2025 (KOIN)

While the name of Brian Flowers is now part of state history, his family hopes his legacy will protect the next generation.

Its been nearly two years since he died. But for Elsie, the pain remains fresh.

Being here I think Im trying to balance the pride and honor of Brian and grief, she said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
By Valerie Volcovici

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Two major environmental groups announced on Tuesday they have sued the Trump administration for secretly convening a group of climate skeptics, which prepared a report that served as the basis for a reversal of U.S. rules on greenhouse gas emissions without public notice.

The Environmental Defense Fund and the Union of Concerned Scientists filed the lawsuit in a federal district court in Massachusetts, arguing that the so-called Climate Working Group that Energy Secretary Chris Wright put together, evaded public view, delivered erroneous results and was illegally used to inform the Environmental Protection Agency's decision to reverse the scientific finding that served as the foundation for federal climate regulation.

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The lawsuit names Wright and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin as defendants. Both were not immediately available for comment.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

The preparation and use of the report has raised concern that the United States is rejecting the mainstream consensus about the causes and impacts of climate change at a time that more severe storms and record-breaking temperatures cause trillions of dollars in damage around the country. Downplaying the impacts of climate change and eliminating U.S. climate data collection and reports also takes away the urgency for the U.S. to shift away from fossil fuels toward cleaner energy.

KEY CONTEXT

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Through the Federal Advisory Committee Act, Congress requires public disclosure and public records in the establishment and operation of any federal advisory committee.

KEY QUOTE

Decades of rigorous scientific analysis shows burning fossil fuels is unequivocally contributing to deadly heat waves, accelerating sea level rise, worsening wildfires and floods, increased heavy rainfall, and more intense and damaging storms across the country. We should all relentlessly question who stands to gain from efforts to upend this unassailable and peer-reviewed scientific truth, said Gretchen Goldman, president of UCS.

(Reporting by Valerie VolcoviciEditing by Tomasz Janowski)
National Guard troops called on to active-duty by President Donald Trump arrived at the footsteps of the Washington Monument on Tuesday as part of his plan to address what he insists is "out of control" crime in the nation's capital.

Col. Dave Butler, an Army spokesperson, said the troops were called on to help local law enforcement with logistics support, transportation and administration duties, as well as being visible around the National Mall.

"That's part of our assignment  to go to the national monuments and be present," he told ABC News.

Win Mcnamee/Getty Images - PHOTO: Trump Increases Federal Law Enforcement Presence, Deploys National Guard In Nation's Capital

MORE: Trump puts DC police department under federal control, deploys National Guard

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The deployment of troops on U.S. soil is legal to an extent, with the president holding the power to wrangle service members in times of extraordinary crisis. But their duties are also limited to protecting federal personnel and federal property unless the president declares an insurrection, which he has not done.

It was not immediately clear why the presence of U.S. troops along the National Mall was needed, other than to put Trump's orders on display. The area, marked by museums, monuments and long stretches of grass, is known as a relatively safe part of the city that attracts mostly tourists and school groups.

Andrew Leyden/Getty Images - PHOTO: Trump Increases Federal Law Enforcement Presence, Deploys National Guard In Nation's Capital

The troops are expected to have access to weapons but will not carry them, Butler said.

Win Mcnamee/Getty Images - PHOTO: Trump Increases Federal Law Enforcement Presence, Deploys National Guard In Nation's Capital

MORE: Hours after Trump seized DC police force, a man was gunned down in Logan Circle

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Trump has railed against what he calls rampant crime in D.C. On Monday, he called a press conference to announce he would take over the Washington, D.C., police department and activate troops from the D.C. National Guard.

Officials said 100 Guard troops reported to duty on Tuesday with more expected throughout the week.

Andrew Leyden/Getty Images - PHOTO: Trump Increases Federal Law Enforcement Presence, Deploys National Guard In Nation's Capital

"Something's out of control," Trump said Monday of D.C. crime. "But we're going to put it in control very quickly, like we did in the southern border. I'm announcing a historic action to rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor and worse. This is Liberation Day in D.C., and we're going to take our capital back."

Trump's control of the D.C. police force expires in 30 days, after which Congress would have to weigh in.

J. Scott Applewhite/AP - PHOTO: Troops load boxes of rifle ammunition at the District of Columbia National Guard Headquarters as President Donald Trump implements his order to use federal law enforcement and the National Guard in Washington, D.C., Aug. 12, 2025

Earlier on Tuesday, an Army spokesperson said the Guard troops had not been given a mission yet other than to support law enforcement. The expectation was that the service would need the rest of the week to account for the 800 troops and mobilize them before deploying them next week.

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Like all service members serving in the U.S., the Guard will fall under the Standing Rules for the Use of Force, similar to what was used during the deployment of federalized Guard members to Los Angeles following protests against immigration raids.

Under those rules, military personnel have the right of self-defense to protect themselves and others, but use de-escalation techniques to minimize the use of force to accomplish their mission.

Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP - PHOTO: A member of the District of Columbia National Guard arrives at the District of Columbia National Guard Headquarters, Aug. 12, 2025, in Washington.

Appearing on Fox News on Monday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the activated Guard troops will have broad latitude under existing authorities, but they're not going to be involved in law enforcement functions.

Earlier this year, Trump activated other Guard personnel in Los Angeles to protect immigration agents conducting raids and arrests. In other parts of the country, Guard personnel have been activated to help law enforcement with administrative work.
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  A Guatemalan man was sentenced for unlawfully reentering the United States after being removed from the country.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Felino Fernando Perez-Jimenez, 25, was sentenced on August 6, 2025, to seven months in federal prison.

George County deputies detain person in homicide case

Court documents stated that Perez-Jimenez was found by law enforcement officials to be unlawfully present in the country on or about January 11, 2025. He was arrested by Carthage police for simple assault, resisting arrest, public drunk and failure to comply with an officer.

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Prosecutors said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encountered Perez-Jimenez at the Leake County Jail in Carthage on January 12, 2025. They said a records check identified Perez-Jimenez to be a citizen of Guatemala and not in possession of valid immigration documents allowing him to be or remain in the United States legally.

Felino Fernando Perez-Jimenez (Courtesy: Madison County Detention Center)

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Perez-Jimenez had been previously removed from the United States in 2023.

He was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 4, 2025, and pled guilty on May 2, 2025.

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CROWLEY, LA. (KLFY) Gueydan man was arrested by Louisiana Bureau of Investigation for several counts of sexual abuse of an animal and possession of sexual child materials.

James Wyatt Joseph Bouley, 25, of Gueydan, was arrested in Crowley and charged with 100 counts of child sexual abuse materials under the age 13 felony and 10 Counts of sexual abuse of an animal.

This arrest was a result of a joint investigation with The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and Acadia Parish Sheriffs Office after agents received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

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According to officials, Bouley was booked into the Acadia Parish Jail and has a bond set at $125,000.

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KLFY Daily Digest

This case remains under investigation.

James Wyatt Joseph Bouley, 25, of Gueydan

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com.
Ever read a crime story in The Charlotte Observer and wanted to learn more about the charges someone faces? Need to double-check when youre supposed to go to traffic court? Curious whos suing the mayor?

Theres a tool for that.

As weve reported, its not perfect. Records arent always posted to eCourts promptly  or at all; there are some quirks; at the time of this writing, about a dozen counties arent yet in the system.

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Its confusing at first, no doubt. But eCourts, the states free online court record system, has its uses.

Instead of driving to the courthouse or calling the clerks office, you can find police affidavits, lawsuits, arrest warrants and more with a few mouse clicks. Here at the Observer, we use it daily.

Now, Ill show you how to.

Make sure your case is local, not federal. If you want to research a federal case, this guide wont help you.

A different online database, PACER, stores federal records.

If you have paperwork from the case you want to learn more about, check the top. It should say whether yours is a federal or state case.

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Another good rule of thumb: If the arresting agency is local  say, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department  the case is probably in the local court system. If that agency is federal  like the FBI  its likely in federal court.

Searching for a case by number

ECourts home screen on Aug. 8, 2025.

To get to eCourts search function, go to nccourts.gov/portal. Then click the Smart Search button.

There are two ways to find someones file.

A case number will zero in on the specific file youre looking for. You will need to have that number ahead of time, though.

Im not going to single out any one person facing charges for the sake of this guide, but dont worry if you dont have a case number. Well get to that soon.

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If you do have one, search it as is.

That case number should pop up as a link. Click it. You will see a page full of information. The persons charges, the date they were filed and the agency that filed them are all at the top of the page.

Further down, under Case Events, you can find a listing of different files in the case  that persons arrest warrants, police affidavits and the like. Whatever paper trail there is should be listed. So long as those documents have been uploaded by the clerks office, you can download the records and read them yourself. Click the PDF icons.

You can also see the next hearing date.

Searching by someones name

Go to the same link from before. Again, hit Smart Search.

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Format your search this way: LASTNAME,FIRSTNAME. If you dont know of anyone facing charges, maybe check our crime coverage and look for someone with a unique name.

If case numbers with links do populate, youve found cases tied to that name. Click them for the information I described in the last section.

Once we search, we see the last case number we clicked and several others. Bear in mind that every John Smith is not the same John Smith. But we can find clues. PDFs might include birthdays to compare, middle names might be listed and so on.

When searching, you can also select Advanced Filtering Options to narrow things down.

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You can search law enforcement agencies this way, too. Look up Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and youll find lawsuits against the department, court petitions filed by officers and more.

Some codes you should know

If you use the search I just described to look up a public figure, like a police chief or a mayor in a big city, you will probably find links. To be clear, that doesnt mean theyre facing criminal charges. It could just be a lawsuit, an old traffic ticket or something else.

Every case number will begin with the year the case began, followed by a code telling you whether its civil or criminal or something else, followed by a unique number, followed by a three-digit code for whatever county its in. (Mecklenburg Countys code is 590.)

CR means a criminal case. CV means a civil case, like a lawsuit. IF means infraction. There are others, too.

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Dont assume; read the records. When searching a persons name, they could pop up as a defendant or a plaintiff. ECourts is broad like that.

Checking the warrant box

An example of what you might see after doing a blanket search for criminal warrants on eCourts.

When I was a breaking news reporter at the Asheville Citizen Times, I would wake up at 6 a.m. every weekday and go to the Buncombe County magistrates office. There, Id thumb through arrest warrants and search warrants from the day before, looking for a good story.

Now, I do that online.

If you want to find all new arrest warrants, search warrants or lawsuits filed in the last week or so, there are codes you can enter in Smart Search. (Again, same link.)

Criminal warrants are under 25CR*, search warrants 25SW*, lawsuits 25CV* and infractions under 25IF*. Narrow your search by whatever dates youd like.

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If you are reading this in 2026 or 2027, remember to change the number to correspond with whatever year youre in. Cases from 2024 start with 24, cases from 2023 start with 23 and so on. I assume eCourts will continue to use that system.

(Note: I and others have seen glitches when narrowing these searches to Mecklenburg County. So, I usually skip that step and manually click on each Mecklenburg link I want to read. It takes longer, but such is life.)

Be ready for missing files

North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts spokesperson Graham Wilson shared this info for the public: Older cases might be missing PDFs.

Older closed cases may not contain documents because the records retention period has passed and those records were lawfully destroyed by the clerks office prior to eCourts, Wilson wrote in an email. Case details (defendant name, charge(s), disposition, etc.) are still available on Portal.

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You will likely run into another problem that weve grown accustomed to at the Observer. A file will be listed, but there will be no PDF to download and read. Like we reported last year, the clerks office is choosing to redact information now that records live online. That appears to be slowing down the publics access.

Still, these are public records. You are entitled to read them. If a file isnt on eCourts, your best bet is to call the county clerks office and politely ask that they post the missing PDF. In my experience, theyre accommodating.

There are lots of other parts of eCourts to try out, but the above searches are how I use it about 90 percent of the time. Its young enough that its still changing, so your best bet is to play with it and experiment.

Happy digging.

Ryan Oehrli covers criminal justice in the Charlotte region for The Charlotte Observer. His work is produced with financial support from the nonprofit The Just Trust. The Observer maintains full editorial control of its journalism.
As students boarded buses at the West Side Leadership Academy in Gary Tuesday afternoon, police and school security officers arrested an unidentified male who officials said was armed with a gun.

In a social media post, officials said the male came on campus as students began boarding buses at the end of the school day at about 3:30 p.m.

The post said the male was allegedly searching for a student who had harmed one of his relatives.

No one was injured, officials said.

Tuesday marked the third day of school for students in the Gary Community School Corp.
A criminal hacker group has obtained the personal data of tens of thousands of holidaymakers from Italian hotels, collected from ID documents required at check-in.

The group, called Mydocs, has been offering around 70,000 documents for sale online in recent days, Italian police said on Wednesday.

The breach affected high-end hotels in cities such as Venice and Trieste, as well as on the island of Capri.

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According to police, the hackers illegally accessed the booking systems of various hotels starting in June. This allowed them to acquire high-resolution scans of passports, ID cards and other documents used by tourists and business travellers.

Italy's state agency for digital affairs (AgID) said the documents are now being sold on the dark web in pixelated form, with prices ranging from 800 to 10,000 ($937 to $11,714).

According to the newspaper Corriere del Veneto, one of the hotels affected is the four-star Ca' dei Conti in Venice, where 38,000 documents were reportedly stolen.

In Italy, guests must present ID at hotel check-in, which is typically copied at the reception. Many hotels now use computer systems to automate this digitization process.
A $900 million request for humanitarian assistance for Haitians, millions of whom are facing starvation, has received the lowest level of support for any such plan in the world, the United Nations outgoing humanitarian coordinator said Tuesday.

Ulrika Richardson, who has spent the past three years guiding the U.N.s response amid escalating gang violence, harrowing kidnappings and rapes, called on the international community to prioritize the crisis in the Caribbean nation as she gave her final press conference on Haiti before moving on to Libya next month.

Sometimes its going too far in the wait and see; we need to wait and see how the situation evolves before we reinvest, Richardson said from U.N. headquarters about the responses she often got from the foreign community when seeking support for the crisis in Haiti.  And I say, Well, I think time is running out.

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Last week, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced Richardson as his new deputy special representative of the U.N. Support Mission in Libya and resident coordinator there. Originally from Sweden, she arrived in Port-au-Prince in 2022 from Kosovo.

The situation on the ground is enormously acute in Haiti, she said, before rattling off the statistics. I often feel that I cant even find words any longer to describe the situation. Is it alarming? Is it acute? Is it urgent? Its all of that and even more.

We say that we have 1.3 million people displaced as a result of the gang violence... and half of them are children; we have 3,000 people having been killed in gang-related incidents since the beginning of the year, we have two million people living in emergency levels of food insecurity, she added. But all of that is figures, in a way, and behind every figure there is a woman, a mother, a child, a father a young person.

Richardsons departure comes amid changing financial times at the U.N.. The global entity faces having to reduce its presence in Haiti as it is undergoing escalating gang violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis, and U.S. funds dry up. Equally uncertain is the level of international support the country will be able to count on to help its beleaguered security forces taken on criminal gangs that are fast expanding to other regions.

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Six months after Guterres proposed for the U.N. to assume some of the financial burden for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti, Washington has not said what its level of support will be, or even if it supports the proposal. Guterres offered to have U.N. members assessed contributions partly fund the mission.

This needs to be acted upon, responded to and deliberated on. This is what we are waiting for because that will also determine, of course, what is the future of the multinational security support to Haiti, Richardson said about the proposal. We hope that the seriousness on the ground, the gravity, the severity is really pushing the Security Council to look at this proposal and make a decision on the way forward.

In the meantime, the situation continues to worsen.

The response from the international community is just not on par with the gravity on the ground, Richardson said. It does not respond to the severity and the gravity of the situation.

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As much as Haiti has spiraled into chaos, the country can quickly spiral up again, she stated. But the violence needs to end. This brutal violence, hitting women, children, young people in particular, needs to end.

In particular, the arms trafficking into the country has to cease, she said. There are ways of stopping arms coming into Haiti, said Richardson. If you strangle that... there will be a decrease of violence.

She also warned that while Port-au-Prince is being overwhelmed by gangs, the rest of Haiti cannot be overlooked. Failing to respond could risk plunging the rest of the country into violence and instability.

So far, onlu 9% of the U.N.s $900 million request for Haiti has been funded, the lowest level for any response plan in the world, Richardson said.

It is a fairly small territory, very rich country and the population is a very agile population with human resources available in the diaspora, Richardson added. I think the country can be rebuilt, but it needs political stability. It needs to get rid of the gang violence.
Israel has not ruled out the possibility of sending a delegation for talks on a potential deal, but has made clear that no decision has been made yet.

Hamas has begun preliminary discussions on the possibility of resuming stalled hostage negotiations, a senior Hamas official, Taher al-Nunu, said in Cairo on Wednesday, ahead of meetings scheduled to start on Thursday.

These talks, he noted, would focus on ways to stop the war in the Strip, allow the entry of aid, and end the suffering of the people in Gaza.

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A Hamas leadership delegation, headed by Khalil al-Hayya, arrived in Cairo on Wednesday to hold talks with senior Egyptian officials.

This is the first such visit since last weeks decision by the security cabinet to launch an operation to capture Gaza City.

Despite the visit, an Israeli official said that so far, there has been no new message from the terrorist organization regarding the prospect of an agreement.

Hamas terrorists carrying clubs and firearms secure humanitarian aid trucks in the northern Gaza area of Jabaliya on June 25, 2025. (credit: TPS-IL)

Israel has not ruled out the possibility of sending a delegation for talks on a potential deal but has made it clear that no decision has been made yet.

While mediators Qatar and Egypt are trying to formulate a framework that would include the release of all hostages and an end to the war, the possibility of negotiating a partial deal  involving the release of only 10 hostages  has not been ruled out.

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An Egyptian source familiar with negotiations told Saudi channel Al Arabiya on Thursday that the proposal for ending the war and hostage exchange would be carried out in two stages.

According to the report, Hamas would commit to a long-term ceasefire and freeze its military wing's activities during a transitional period. The deal would also include halting weapons manufacturing and smuggling in Gaza, as well as a "symbolic exile" of some Hamas leaders from Gaza and the deployment of temporary international and Arab forces.

Al Arabiya reported that the plan envisioned a gradual withdrawal of the IDF under Arab and American supervision.

A partial deal

We are now at the stage of one full deal, not returning to a partial deal I want to bring everyone back, but under the conditions of ending our war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview with i24NEWS on Tuesday.

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If the partial deal is brought back to the table, Israel will consider discussing it, Israeli officials said.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir on Thursday is expected to present Defense Minister Israel Katz with the operational options for capturing Gaza City.

Estimates suggest it would take at least three months to evacuate the roughly one million residents of the city, which would only be the first stage of the operation.
Aug. 13Republican Sen. Kevin Corbin, who represents the far western counties of the state in the N.C. General Assembly, was the primary champion of Medicaid expansion in 2023.

He's keeping a careful watch on how the new federal legislation projected to cut Medicaid costs by $1 trillion over the next decade will impact North Carolina.

At the top of the list is how the changes will impact the Medicaid expansion efforts that offered health insurance to more than 671,000 people statewide.

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These are individuals who had fallen into a gap  making too much for Medicaid but not enough for subsidized private insurance under the Affordable Care Act. They were left to chose between no insurance or the full freight of private insurance on a low income.

When Medicaid coverage was expanded to this group, the 10% expansion cost to the state was covered by a medical provider tax on hospitals, long-term care facilities or other medical providers. The new federal law restricts the amount medical providers can pay to no more than 6%, and that amount is eventually phased out.

When the expanded Medicaid program was adopted in the state, it included a "trigger law" that automatically ends the expansion if the federal funding match drops below 90%.

Both the limits on the medical provider tax and the extra costs associated with monitoring the work requirements mean that the state may find itself picking up more than 10% of the cost, potentially triggering that cut-off when the law is phased in by 2027.

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For now, Corbin said it is too early to know the implications of how the federal legislation will impact North Carolina.

"It has the potential for people to drop off, but not in the numbers people think," he said. "There are work requirements that we're OK with, but if everybody responds, we'll lose nobody."

The work requirements only apply for the 600,000+ North Carolina residents who receive health insurance as part of the expanded Medicaid population. That includes about 4,200 in Haywood County.

The new wrinkle is that state workers must verify program eligibility twice a year  something that will require additional employees paid at state and county expense.

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The state mini budget passed this week includes no new funding to implement the federal changes. That's because there are no firm figures on the potential costs, Corbin said.

There are also efforts within the state to amend the federal bill, which isn't scheduled to take effect until the end of 2026, in most cases.

"I'm hoping we can get an exception or clarifying legislation that will correct this," Corbin said.

State health and human services officials are crunching numbers so legislators will have a better idea of funding needs under the federal bill.

Federal action is costly

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A July 9 document titled "Impact of Federal Medicaid & SNAP Changes" put out by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services estimates the total Medicaid losses in this state at $49.9 billion over the next decade.

Of that amount, 70% is in reduced payments to hospitals. The remainder will be due to an expected loss of coverage to residents and the potential for the Medicaid expansion population to fall back into the "gap."

How will it all shake out?

"The short answer is, 'I don't know,'" Corbin said. "We're looking at that now, then potential impacts and ways to counteract them. In theory, there could be little to no (effect) and in theory, there could be a tremendous impact."

Even if there are no funds in the current state budget for addressing these impacts, Corbin said the General Assembly will come back into session for several days each month to look at new information as it is available.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  A Harrisburg man has been sentenced to over five years in prison for the illegal possession of a firearm.

Noah Lee Craddock, 33, of Harrisburg, was sentenced on August 12 to 71 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a felon, according to the United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

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The office says in November 2020, State Troopers stopped a vehicle Craddock was driving on I-83 in Harrisburg and recovered a 9mm Glock pistol and a loaded magazine.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  This year Hartford HealthCares Institute of Living is celebrating an exciting anniversary- 25 years of the Anxiety Disorders Center.

The center is a game changer for those with anxiety-related disorders, providing the most advanced treatment options and research.

Dr. David Tolin, director of the Anxiety Disorders Center at Hartford Hospitals Institute of Living, joined Good Morning Connecticut at 9 a.m. to discuss.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Harvey Weinstein is ready to proceed with the retrial of the rape charge related to aspiring actress Jessica Mann, and is, at this point, not ready to plead guilty to the charge, according to his attorneys.

He doesnt want the word rape associated with him, attorney Arthur Aidala told reporters outside the Manhattan courthouse Wednesday.

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In June, Weinstein was convicted of one count of criminal assault in against former Project Runway assistant Miriam Haley, but not guilty of criminal sexual assault against former model Kaja Sokola.

As part of that trial, a mistrial was called on the rape charge Weinstein faced after the jury foreperson refused to return to deliberations saying he faced threats from other jurors. At the time, prosecutors said that they plan to retry Weinstein on that charge and that Mann was ready and willing and wants to retry this count.

However, Weinsteins team is hoping prosecutors decide to drop the rape charge against Weinstein before the next hearing, because as Aidala notes, the charge carries a sentence of four years. The conviction on criminal sexual act in the first degree, related to Haley, is the higher felony charge and carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison.

Additionally, Aidala noted that the rape charge would likely have very little effect on his overall sentence, given the fact that Weinstein has already served about six years in prison in New York, which could count toward time served in sentencing for this case.

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The next hearing in the case has been set for Sept. 30, at which time a trial date will be picked, or, if the charge is dropped, sentencing will take place on the criminal sexual act charge. Judge Curtis Farber confirmed that if there is another trial, it would have to take place this year.

The plan is resolve the remaining charges prior to the imposition of the sentence, Farber said Wednesday.

Weinstein was present for the hearing Wednesday and was brought into court in a wheelchair, as he has been for hearings across the past year. Amid past reports from his team of ill health, he appeared alert as he greeted his attorneys and Judge Curtis Farber saying, Good morning, Your Honor. Aidala said Wednesday that Weinsteins health is far from good, and that he remains housed at Rikers Island which is far from an ideal place for him to be housed.

This would be the third time Weinstein faces a trial involving the alleged rape of Mann. Both Haley and Mann were part of Weinsteins 2020 rape and criminal sexual assault case, but his conviction was overturned in April 2024 after the court of appeals found the trial prejudiced Weinstein with improper rulings, including allowing women to testify about allegations that were not part of the case.

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In the 2020 trial, Weinstein received a mixed verdict with the jury finding Weinstein guilty of the crimes against Haley and Mann, but also acquitting Weinstein of first-degree rape and predatory sexual assault related to other women. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg pursued the retrial of Weinstein shortly after his conviction was overturned, with Sokola as a new addition to the case.

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Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein will face a third trial in New York in connection to the sexual assault case of actor Jessica Mann.

New York Judge Curtis Farber said Wednesday that the trial will take place before the end of 2025.

A jury was unable in June to come to a verdict on a rape charge that alleged Weinstein sexually assaulted Mann but did find him guilty of sexually assaulting former "Project Runway" production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006, and not guilty of assaulting former runway model Kaja Sokola that same year.

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The judge announced he would not sentence Weinstein on the conviction involving Haley until Weinstein is retried for the charge related to Mann, who has alleged Weinstein raped her in 2013.

Weinstein was slated to be sentenced on Sept. 30 for the guilty verdict in Haley's case, which means unless he pleads guilty to the charge that involves Mann, or either he is tried before September or prosecutors drop that charge, he's likely to have that sentencing date postponed.

Harvey Weinstein (C) appears in Manhattan Supreme Court to be sentenced on his sexual assault conviction in New York City on Wednesday. Photo by Curtis Means/UPI

Weinstein, the co-founder of film studios Miramax and The Weinstein Company, was originally convicted of rape and criminal sexual act in 2020 and sentenced to 23 years in prison for the crimes.

However, New York's state Court of Appeals overturned his conviction after finding the jury in the 2020 trial was prejudiced by the judge of that trial who allowed women with unrelated allegations to testify.

Defense lawyer for Harvey Weinstein, Arthur Aidala, appears outside Manhattan Supreme Court ahead of Weinstein's sentencing on his sexual assault conviction in New York City on Wednesday. Photo by Curtis Means/UPI

Weinstein was also found guilty by a Los Angeles jury of sexual assault and sentenced to 16 years in prison.

He is currently appealing against that conviction and has denied all of the charges lodged against him. Weinstein has been held in custody in New York's Rikers Island jail.
Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced Hollywood producer whose scandal in 2017 was pivotal in drawing global attention to the #MeToo movement, will be tried for a third time by New York prosecutors in the sexual assault case of Jessica Mann.

New York Judge Curtis Farber said on Wednesday that he wants the trial to take place before the end of this year.

A jury could not render a verdict in June on a rape charge accusing Weinstein of sexually assaulting Mann, a former actor.

Harvey Weinstein appears in Manhattan Criminal Court on April 22, 2025. (Angela Weiss / AFP - Getty Images)

The same jury found Weinstein guilty in June of sexually assaulting former Project Runway production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006 and not guilty of assaulting Polish former runway model Kaja Sokola that same year.

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Weinstein's sentencing for the guilty verdict in Haley's case is scheduled for Sept. 30, Farber said.

The judge vowed not to sentence Weinstein on the charge involving Haley until Weinstein is tried again for the charge related to Mann. Therefore, unless Weinstein pleads guilty to that charge, prosecutors drop the charge or the charge is tried before the end of September, Weinstein's sentencing will presumably be pushed to a later date.

At a press conference shortly afterward, an attorney for Weinstein, Arthur Aidala, suggested that prosecutors should drop the charge related to Mann.

"In the big picture, even if Mr. Weinstein got convicted of Jessica Mann, there would probably be very little effect on what his ultimate sentence would be," Aidala said.

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He suggested that Weinstein will not plead guilty to the charge because his client "doesnt want the word rape associated with him in any way, shape or form."

Miriam Haley, right, and attorney Gloria Allred outside court in New York on June 11. (Angela Weiss / AFP via Getty Images file)

Weinstein, 73, denied all of the charges. Throughout the retrial, his lawyers insisted the sexual encounters with his three accusers were "transactional" and "consensual," and painted the women as opportunists.

During deliberations, the jury foreman expressed to the judge that the jury member were clashing over reaching a verdict. The foreman told the court that one of the other jurors threatened him and told him: "You know me; you going to see me outside."

The foreman then refused to continue deliberations on the final charge, prompting prosecutors to move for a mistrial.

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Weinstein, who co-founded global film studios Miramax and The Weinstein Company, was originally convicted of rape and criminal sexual act by the same court in 2020 and sentenced to 23 years in prison for the crimes.

The landmark sentencing was seen as a watershed moment for the #MeToo movement, which prompted a global reckoning of sexual harassment and abuse.

Last year, however, New York's highest court overturned the conviction, prompting Weinstein's retrial this summer. The state Court of Appeals found that the judge in the 2020 trial prejudiced the jury by allowing women with allegations that did not pertain to the case to testify.

Weinstein was also found guilty by a Los Angeles jury of sexual assault and sentenced to 16 years in state prison, a conviction he is currently appealing.

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The once jet-setting, Oscar-winning movie producer has remained in custody at Rikers Island jail, and has frequently been hospitalized due to health issues.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
NEED TO KNOW

Harvey Weinstein had his sentencing pushed back to the end of September after being convicted of a criminal sex act by a New York jury in his criminal retrial

Weinstein, who appeared in court expecting to be sentenced on Wednesday, Aug. 13, had previously been sentenced to 23 years in prison after his first New York trial in 2020

Prosecutors want to try him for a third time on a rape charge after a mistrial was declared by the judge on that charge

A judge in New York has pushed back the sentencing of Harvey Weinstein to the end of September.

The disgraced mogul, 73, is facing a maximum of 25 years in prison after a jury convicted him on a single count of criminal sex act following his retrial on criminal charges. He had arrived at court on Wednesday, Aug. 13, expecting to be sentenced.

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Instead, the judge held a pre-sentencing hearing during which Weinstein was given the offer of taking a plea on the rape charge  which had resulted in a mistrial at his most recent trial.

If he entered a plea, and agreed to waive his right to appeal, Weinstein would avoid having to stand trial for a third time on that charge.

Prosecutors said in court that they would be ready to commence with that trial, if needed, in January.

Judge Curtis Farber responded to that by saying in court that if there was to be another trial it would need to take place this year, and a date would be set at the September hearing should that be the case.

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After a seven-week trial that began in April, jurors for the second time found Weinstein guilty of criminal sexual act against Miriam "Mimi" Haley, 48, a former production assistant on Project Runway.

She testified that Weinstein  who served as an executive producer on Project Runway at the time  invited her to his multimillion-dollar Soho apartment in New York City to "say hi" in 2006, and then proceeded to pin her down in a bedroom and perform a sex act on her without her consent.

Jurors then acquitted Weinstein of the same charge for an incident involving Kaja Sokola, a 39-year-old model who alleged that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex on him after the two met for lunch in 2006.

Sokola, who did not testify in Weinstein's first New York trial, said outside the courthouse that she was happy the mogul had been convicted on at least one charge when jurors returned their verdict on two of the three charges back in June.

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.

Then, in a bizarre twist, a mistrial was declared on a rape count Weinstein was facing involving actress Jessica Mann, who was also testifying for the second time.

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Mann, 40, alleged that Weinstein invited her to what he claimed was a breakfast meeting in 2013 and then took her to a hotel room where he proceeded to rape her.

Jurors returned with a guilty verdict on that charge in the first criminal trial, but after the jury foreman claimed deliberations had devolved into threats of violence, the judge dismissed the seven women and five men who, by that point, had spent six days trying to reach a unanimous decision.

John Angelillo-Pool/Getty Miriam Haley Miriam Haley

Weinstein had previously been convicted of both criminal sex act and rape at his 2020 trial and sentenced to 23 years in prison.

A verdict from that trial was overturned in 2024 by The New York Court of Appeals in a 4-to-3 decision.

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The majority in that case sided with Weinstein's defense team, who argued that their client did not receive a fair trial as a result of the judge's decision to allow prosecutors to call several women to testify about allegedly being assaulted by Weinstein in incidents that were not criminally charged by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.

That decision was viewed by some  including the three dissenting judges  as a giant setback for the #MeToo movement, victims of sexual assault and marginalized groups.

Judge Madeline Signas wrote at the time: "Men who serially sexually exploit their power over women  especially the most vulnerable groups in society  will reap the benefit of todays decision."

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg responded to the news by announcing his office would once again be filing charges against Weinstein, and his second trial got underway in less than a year.

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And while that ruling meant Weinstein no longer had to serve out his sentence in New York, he was not able to walk free.

Weinstein was instead transferred from New York to California upon his release, where he started serving out his 16-year prison sentence following a 2022 criminal trial that ended with a jury returning guilty verdicts on one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault.

He was back in New York just a few months later, though, after a governor's warrant ordered that he be returned from California and remain in the state until the completion of his trial.

That warrant was issued by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

John Angelillo-Pool/Getty Jessica Mann Jessica Mann

The warrant filed by Gov. Hochul means that Weinstein will remain in custody until all criminal charges against him have been resolved, including the lingering rape charge for which he might face a third trial.

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This all comes at a time when Weinstein has been dealing with a growing number of health crises, including heart issues, a cancer diagnosis and diabetes. He is currently being housed in the Rikers' facility reserved for individuals with contagious diseases and medical conditions requiring constant care.

He arrived at court on Wednesday in a wheelchair.

"Harveys health is in steep decline, and this long, punishing ordeal has only worsened the toll. For years, he has been tried in the court of public opinionby those nursing old grudges and by others seeking personal gain in keeping his name alive in headlines," Weinstein's rep Juda Englemeyer tells PEOPLE. "Its time for the barrage to end, and for the focus to return to fairness, truth, and the basic dignity every person deserves."

In the wake of the allegations against him, which were first detailed in The New York Times followed soon after by the New Yorker, Weinstein saw himself banished from Hollywood and became one of just two Oscar winners to ever be expelled from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.

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His second wife, former Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman, divorced him soon after and has since entered into a relationship with actor Adrien Brody.

Well over 100 women came forward and said they were victims of Weinstein's predatory ways  among them Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett and Lupita Nyong'o  with some accusing him of sexual misconduct and others sexual assault.



Read the original article on People
HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT)  The City of Hattiesburg is taking local action with settlement funds to combat the ongoing opioid crisis. The city is forming a special advisory board to help decide how their share of the funds (nearly $54,000) will be used.

The hope is that we simply will use this one-time money, this rare opportunity in a way that is most effective to get the best return on investment, said James Moore, a member of the board.

Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker asked Moore to form the advisory board to guide how the city will invest the funds.

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USM welcomes new students for 2025 Fall semester

We have people from the university. We have people who are managing local rehab centers that are part of it. We have people who are managing sober living facilities. We have families like my own thats directly impacted by lost of addiction, said Moore.

Shay Smith, another board member, has been in recovery for nine years. She now manages a womens sober living facility and wants to use her experience to help others recover and rebuild their lives.

Transportation is a huge barrier to people for work. Documentation is a huge barrier. Seventeen-dollars to get your ID is a mountain to people who dont have any resources or people to call to get those things, Smith said.

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The settlement fund wont be spent until the board decides the best way to move forward.

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  A New Haven high school student detained by ICE has been moved back to a center in New England, according to his attorney.

Officials: New Haven student detained by ICE

The 18-year-old, who has been referred to as Esdras by his supporters, is now at a center in Plymouth, Massachusetts. He was sent to that center originally after his detainment, before being moved New Hampshire and then Louisiana.

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Esdras was detained in late July while working at a car wash. After being moved around, he was scheduled to be deported to Guatemala, his home country, before the deportation was canceled.

Esdras was a student at Wilbur Cross High School. He is known in his community as a hardworking student, and many protests have been held to have him return home.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  A new state law is making it harder for towing companies in Hawaii to overcharge or take advantage of drivers. House Bill 1577, also known as the Tow Truck Bill, became law as Act 060 on June 21, 2024; and it went into effect on June 24 the same year.

So, why havent you heard of this?

The road hazard youre not looking for but need to be

Representative Darius Kila (D-44), who introduced the bill with a colleague, Representative Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D-36), said he is receiving requests from the public to create a bill that tackles exactly what his Tow Truck Bill covered.

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Ive seen lots of people posting, asking for help, said Rep. Kila. I think we need to get the word out.

Crackdown on car mods, window tint could cost you hundreds

But, for some reason, the word has not gotten out around the islands. Lets take a look at how the law protects you.

Protecting vehicle owners

The law sets firm limits on what tow truck companies can charge. Standard tow fees are now capped at $65 for regular towing or $75 when a dolly is used.

There is a mileage charge of $7.50 per mile and daily storage fees. If a car is difficult to access, companies can add a $30 fee.

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An extra $15 may be charged for towing during overnight hours or weekends. These are the only fees allowed unless the vehicle is overturned or off-road.

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If a car is overturned, companies may now charge an extra $35. This change was included in the new law. Its the only new type of surcharge that is allowed.

We created this bill to protect both drivers and the tow truck companies that are operating above board, of which there are many, explained Rep. Kila.

No more forced ATM runs

Under HB 1577, towing companies must accept cash, credit cards or debit cards. They are not allowed to require customers to use on-site ATMs.

This rule was created to prevent towing businesses from adding extra fees or creating payment barriers.

The law also requires towing companies to notify the legal owner and last registered owner of the vehicle within 15 to 20 days after the tow, depending on the situation.

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If they do not send proper notice, the car owner does not have to pay any towing or storage fees.

You can click here to read the bill.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8

This law is now part of the Hawaii Revised Statutes under sections 290-11 and 291C-165.5. It applies to all towing companies operating in the state.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a new travel-related case of dengue virus on Oahu, bringing the total number of dengue cases to 12 in the state in 2025, one on Maui, 11 on Oahu.

PREVIOUSLY  Hawaii confirms 11th dengue case of 2025

The Department of Health said that the individual was exposed to the virus while traveling in a region where dengue is common.

DOH teams have been able to apply mosquito control measures in the area, reducing the risk of local spread.

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The spread of dengue happens when an infected person gets bit by a mosquito, and the mosquito bites back on to another person.

City officials said that the public should follow best practices to help prevent local spreading of this virus.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Dengue is known to be a year-round risk in tropical and subtropical areas, which include Central and South America, Asia (including the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa and several Pacific Islands, such as U.S. territories like American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises all travelers to be cautious when visiting these areas.

Travelers who return from dengue-endemic areas should avoid the risk of getting mosquito bites for at least three weeks, to reduce the probability of catching the case.

Symptoms of dengue like nausea, fever, vomiting, rash and body aches can last from up to two to seven days. If symptoms develop within two weeks, you should see a doctor.

The Department of Health is doing inspections and suggests getting rid of common breeding sites for mosquitos, like buckets, water-catching plants, and even cups left out.

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Check out more news from around Hawaii

At home, pouring out containers of standing water can significantly reduce the potential for mosquito breeding.

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HAWKINS COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  A new therapy dog has joined the Hawkins County School District.

WJHL Photo

Polar, a 7-year-old poodle, joins therapy dogs Archie and Koda for the school system.

It creates a really calming environment, I think, Cherokee High School Counselor Kira Harrell said. [Polar] walks in and everybody just kind of lights up The teachers are constantly asking for him to come and visit their classes, the kids. Theyll come in and just kind of want to pet on him for a minute. Polars already been involved in some tough conversations, and I think hes helped to bring the stress levels down.

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Town of Jonesborough responds to Yoda statue debacle

Cherokee High senior Summer Ramsey-Dash said everyone looks forward to a visit from Polar.

I think it really calms down the environment, Ramsey-Dash said. Its something to kind of look forward to, and it kind of makes your day a little better. Starting out, seeing a dog around the school.

Each therapy dog within the Hawkins County School District is certified by the Alliance for Therapy Dogs.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
The Brief

Hays County commissioners continue to delay purchasing more license plate readers

Austin Police Chief Davis says the LPRs would have helped police catch the suspect in Monday's mass shooting at a North Austin Target

Residents have voiced privacy concerns about the cameras

HAYS COUNTY, Texas - Hays County commissioners are grappling with the idea of adding more license plate readers for the county.

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Meanwhile, Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said LPRs would have helped police catch the suspect in Monday's mass shooting.

However, residents have voiced privacy concerns about the cameras.

Shooting at North Austin Target

What they're saying

Ethan Nieneker is the man Austin police say shot and killed three people in the parking lot of a target in North Austin, stole two cars, then was found in South Austin. Davis said multiple 911 calls and APDs Air Support helped them find him Monday afternoon.

Chief Davis said license plate readers would have helped, too.

"I'm a big fan of the, and maybe not Flock camera, definitely a fan of LPR and what that can do and when you're looking at violent crimes such as this, it absolutely helps in the apprehension," Davis said.

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Flock cameras take pictures of cars passing by and if one is connected to a crime, law enforcement is alerted. Austin Police doesnt have them anymore as back in June, Austins program ended after the city manager decided to axe it.

Hays County grapples with ending program

What they're saying

Ending the program is a move Hays County Commissioners may be considering, too.

"I feel like right now when it comes to the type of carceral surveillance ALPRs represent, were on a very slow-moving train to a very dangerous place," San Marcos resident Amy Camp said.

The Hays County Sheriffs Office currently uses six license plate reader cameras. The department is looking to purchase four more.

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In February, the Commissioners Court approved the purchase using grant money. The order form was incomplete though, as it was missing a signature, so it went back to Commissioners Court to rubber stamp it again. Now, commissioners continue to delay the vote.

"My interest in terminating all Flock contracts, agenda item, will not open, I will not open I3 because Ive committed to giving time for conversation," Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said.

Hays County residents have expressed privacy concerns.

"Any freedom loving person should be against this," Texas State professor Nathan Pino said.

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"Safety comes from a fair legal system and from giving people the tools to thrive, not from mass surveillance," Mano Amiga policy director Eric Martinez said.

Hays County Sheriff Anthony Hipolito said in a statement:

"Flock technology has proven to be an invaluable tool for modern law enforcement. Its ability to quickly capture and relay critical vehicle information has enhanced our investigative capabilities, increased our efficiency, and ultimately helped us solve crimes faster. This system acts as a force multiplierproviding data that allows our deputies to respond swiftly, track down suspects, recover stolen property, and, most importantly, keep our community safe. I was elected to keep Hays County safe, and I believe I would be doing a disservice to our community if I did not leverage the best technology available to protect them. Flock is not just a piece of technology; its a partner in our mission to protect and serve with integrity, accountability, and unwavering dedication to public safety and justice."

What's next

The Judge said he is giving one more week to hear from community members, then this topic will be back on next Tuesday's Commissioners Court agenda.

The Source

Information in this report comes from reporting/interviews by FOX 7 Austin's CrimeWatch reporter Meredith Aldis and previous reporting.
Vasyl Maliuk, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), has said the SSU has managed to prevent two assassination attempts on journalist Dmytro Gordon  the Russians were supposedly ready to spend US$400,000 on this.

Source: Maliuk in an interview with the We-Ukraine TV channel

Details: Maliuk noted that two groups attempted to kill Gordon, explaining that for Russians, he is "like Solovyov is for us  only Solovyov is a propagandist, and Gordon tells them the raw truth", and that people in Russia watch him.

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"That is why one group was working with a former MP from the Party of Regions, whose surname is Hrushevskyi. He is now in prison. We were tracking them for committing sabotage in Poltava Oblast but in the process of documenting this, we realised that he was preparing and carrying out visual surveillance of Dmytro Gordon They were already studying his daily schedule, and so on. And they were trying to figure out the place where he spends the night. A missile and Shahed drone strike was being planned. They only needed to provide an exact coordinate," Maliuk said.

He added that the perpetrators were detained preventatively.

"However, that was not the end of it. And the FSB decided to push through their criminal operational plan. In another scheme, they involved a Dagestani ethno-national organised criminal group Even before the war, one young man had been sent here, who married here, settled in, and built an appropriate cover story. And they were preparing Gordons murder. The price of the matter was US$400,000," Maliuk said.

He clarified that the Russians wanted to kill Gordon with a short-barrelled rifled weapon, and if the journalist was with a bodyguard, then with an automatic rifle, and "to make a controlled shot with a pistol".

"He [the Dagestani  ed.] and his accomplices have all been detained and all imprisoned," Maliuk clarified.

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  In todays health headlines, what to know about early-onset colorectal cancer. Does a womans ovulation impact the moods of those around them? Plus, what to know about a previously rare condition now surging due to legalized marijuana.

Dr. F. Perry Wilson, associate professor at Yale School of Medicine, Yale Medicine physician, and author of How Medicine Works and When It Doesnt, was a guest on Good Morning Connecticut to discuss these topics.

The rate of colorectal cancer among people ages 45-49 has dramatically increased over the last few years. What should we know about colorectal cancer?

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Unknowningly, humans still respond to scent cues from other humans, and a detailed study has examined the effects of a womans body odor on those around her.

A formerly rare condition called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome has exploded 300-fold in less than 20 years, stemming from legalized marijuana. What exactly is this condition?

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
Its a busy time for schools and health officials. While kids are getting back into classes, area health officials are trying to make certain everyones vaccinations are up to date.

It is kind of hard to get exact numbers on vaccinations because school is starting and those numbers are changing. Our health department nurses have worked with the school nurses, said Daviess County Health Department Administrator Kelli Streeter. We have been attending registration days reaching back to the kindergarten round-ups in the spring. We have seen many of the kids over the summer. Our school nurses do an amazing job going through each of those to prepare them to start school. That has resulted in very high vaccination rates for those children attending public school, in the 90% range. It is the children in Daviess County that dont attend public school thats where the rates are much lower and very hard to track.

We really dont have a feel for what our immunization rate is here at the start of school. I know we were very busy during the entire month of July. Now, we are starting to see the kids who did not get in over the summer, said Martin County Health Nurse Julia Albright, We have a school liaison position at the health department and she works with the school nurses to follow the kids immunizations. If they are missing something she sends out letters to the parents if the parents have an exemption that paperwork for that exemption is on file with the school.

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Daviess and Martin counties tend to have some of the lowest vaccination rates in the state. Much of that has to do with some of the unique populations in the area.

We do have a large population with religious exemptions and that poses an issue with our rates, said Streeter.

We dont have any private schools in Martin County, but we do have some home schooled kids, but those kids have been coming in and getting vaccinated, said Albright.

Officials say vaccinations are not an issue in the Daviess County immigrant community.

Many of them attend public school. Many are required vaccinations for their jobs, said Streeter. Many who are here through immigration are required to be vaccination as a part of the federal program they are on.

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Albright says that lower vaccination rates may be part of a trend that began when COVID ran through the country in 2020.

We really began falling behind during COVID. During COVID those kids werent making their well-visits to the doctor, she said. Now many of those kids are kindergartners and they are not up to date, because they fell behind during the quarantine times. It feels like that trend is continuing. We fell behind then and we are still trying to get caught up. It seems like once people got away from the well-visits, they never went back and we are noticing low immunization rates in our babies.

Whatever the reason might be for lower vaccine rates in the area, officials are determined to get that number up.

We are in the midst of a very hectic time. Our school nurses have a big job. They have some medically fragile kids and some that require daily medication. We try to take some of the immunization burden off of them so they can do their hands on work through the school, said Albright To try and get everyone immunized we try to do extra hours. We normally close at 4 p.m., but through the summer we stay open until 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays to get the kids in. We also had a last minute clinic right before school started.

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We have been running until 7 every night to try and get the last surge of kids, said Streeter. I am sure we will see some over the next few weeks, who didnt make it in or missed and appointment or didnt know. Most of those are in sixth grade or high school. We have been surging for the last six months. We did a lot of targeting this summer through mail, social media and the schools.

Even though this is a hectic time in catching up immunizations, health officials say they feel that by the time the flurry is over both counties will be very close to the state rate.

In our county we are the only vaccines for children provider. Pharmacies can provide them to kids 11 and older, but anyone younger than that in Martin County needs to come to the health department, said Albright.

Every hour we are open at the health department we are available for vaccines for children. We do everything in our power to never turn a child away. We try to always accept walk-ins. We want no barriers for any child who needs a vaccine. That is our mission here and we will continue to work with the schools. We are expecting funding cuts and that will impact our staffing. We will still work to make certain our children are safe and meet the requirements for vaccinations, said Streeter. The state records on immunizations tend to run a year behind. For the 2024-2025 academic year, our rate in Daviess County in kindergarten was 81.5% while the state rate was 86.2%. We were really close for school age public school children.
Since negotiations for a United Nations treaty to address plastic pollution began more than three years ago, protecting human health has risen to the top of many countries priority lists. This is partly because the science on the issue has evolved so rapidly. There are now thousands of scientific papers showing how plastics affect peoples health at every stage of the materials life cycle  from the extraction of oil and gas to the disposal of plastic trash  and more research is emerging all the time.

Juan Carlos Monterrey, Panamas lead negotiator at the sixth round of treaty negotiations, which kicked off last week and goes until August 14 in Geneva, highlighted the connection during an event on Tuesday. Were here to build a treaty that prevents our babies from playing with toys that are full of phthalates and leads, he told youth activists. New generations should not be poisoned by plastic even before they take their first breaths.

But enshrining human health protections into the treaty is far from guaranteed. Some countries would like to remove any mention of it from the agreement, arguing that the topic would be better left to other international pacts. Now, during the final hours of what is meant to be the last round of treaty negotiations, those countries delegates have only grown more brazen. The most recent draft of the agreement removed a key reference to human health, a move that environmental groups were swift to denounce as unacceptable.

A man in suit and wide-brimmed hat holds a microphone and addresses an audience, out of frame.

I am worried, said Christos Symeonides, a developmental pediatrician at Royal Childrens Hospital Melbourne in Australia, shortly before the new treaty text was released. Symeonides is also a member of the Scientists Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, a group of independent experts attempting to guide the negotiations. I dont see another opportunity on the horizon to deal with this issue, he added.

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The connection between plastics and human health should, theoretically, be uncontested among those who are negotiating the plastics treaty. Countries acknowledged it in the mandate that they unanimously agreed to back in 2022, when they were deciding what the point of the plastics treaty would be. The science was already clear at that point that plastics posed a pervasive threat to human health; medical and research groups like the Endocrine Society had already been saying so for years.

But even more evidence has emerged in the intervening time. One member of the Scientists Coalition, Megan Deeney  a research fellow at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine  rattled off some highlights during a press conference on Tuesday: Those living near petrochemical facilities in Europe, the U.K., the U.S., and Taiwan face a 30 percent higher risk of leukemia; people working in South Korean refineries face three times higher risks of oral cancer; a single plastics-related chemical causes 350,000 premature deaths from cardiovascular disease each year, as well as up to $3.7 trillion in associated health care costs.

closeup of pregnant bellies covered by T-shirts reading,

A sign reads,

People are becoming more aware of [health], people are talking about it more, said Bethanie Carney Almroth, an ecotoxicologist at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden and one of the leaders of the Scientists Coalition.

Each of the first three negotiating sessions showed broad support among countries for the treaty to include a legally binding obligation to protect human health from plastic pollution, according to reports prepared by the negotiations secretariat, which organizes the meetings. Early drafts of the agreement repeatedly mentioned human health, reflecting the topics salience among diplomats.

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At the fourth round of negotiations, however  held last year in Ottawa, Canada  this apparent support began to fray. Although many delegates and the secretariat continued to speak about healths role at the heart of the treaty, others started to complain that plastics-related health issues should instead be addressed by international bodies like the World Health Organization. Unnamed delegates argued that there is no direct linkage between plastic pollution and health, or that the evidence of such a linkage is not well developed. Saudi Arabia submitted a proposal that the treatys standalone article on health be deleted.

Scientists including Carney Almroth say this opposition stems from some countries economic interests. Protecting human health from plastics, she argues, requires banning hazardous chemical additives and scaling down plastic production  measures that are anathema to oil-producing countries, especially those that depend on fossil fuels for 40 percent or more of their federal budget revenues.

Some of the talking points shes heard from delegates echo those of the petrochemical industry, which has shown up in increasing numbers at each successive round of plastics treaty talks.

Whats the connection between plastics and climate change?

Plastics are made from fossil fuels and cause greenhouse gas emissions at every stage of their lifespan, including during the extraction of oil and gas, during processing at petrochemical refineries, and upon disposal  especially if theyre incinerated. If the plastics industry were a country, it would have the worlds fourth-largest climate footprint, based on data published last year by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

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Research suggests that plastics are responsible for about 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. But this is likely an underestimate due to significant data gaps: Most countries lack greenhouse gas information on their plastics use and disposal, and the data that is available tends to focus on plastic production and specific disposal methods.

Scientists are beginning to explore other ways plastics may contribute to climate change. Research suggests that plastics release greenhouse gases when exposed to UV radiation, which means there could be a large, underappreciated amount of climate pollution emanating from existing plastic products and litter. Marine microplastics may also be inhibiting the oceans ability to store carbon. And plastic particles in the air and on the Earths surface could be trapping heat or reflecting it  more research is needed.

Holly Kaufman, a senior fellow at the nonprofit World Resources Institute, said its obvious that plastics are using up more than their fair share of the carbon budget, the amount of carbon dioxide the world can emit without surpassing 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius (2.7 or 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming. Plastics have a major climate impact that has just not been incorporated anywhere, she said  including the U.N.s plastics treaty.

Those countries seemed to get their wish on Wednesday afternoon. Though the treaty is still not finalized, the chair of the negotiations  Luis Vayas Valdivieso, an Ecuadorian diplomat  released a new draft for delegates to use during the remaining hours of the talks. It removed the standalone article on health, as well as other health-protective articles on controlling the production of plastic and phasing out hazardous chemicals.

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Its as if the like-minded group drafted it, one observer told Grist. Nonprofits and advocacy groups held a protest outside the conference venue where they called the new text unacceptable and a betrayal of our frontline and Indigenous communities.

Our health is on the line; our children are on the line; our future is on the line, said Sarah Martik, executive director of the U.S. nonprofit Center for Coalfield Justice.

A man and woman stand side by side. The woman has a phone in her hand and is reading from it, looking out at the crowd.

During a plenary session immediately following the texts release, Monterrey said that the chair had stomped, spat on, and burned his countrys red lines on plastic production and human health. This is simply repulsive, he added. It is not ambition, it is surrender, and we will not allow our future generations a treaty as weak as this. Delegates from many other countries objected too, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Chile, Denmark, Fiji, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Saudi Arabias delegate, by contrast  speaking on behalf of a group of Arab countries  called it a milestone, though he still said it crossed some of his unspecified red lines.

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U.N. executives have also weighed in on the role of health in the treaty. On Saturday, during the launch of a new online dashboard cataloguing documented health impacts from plastics, U.N. Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen suggested that health could be compromised in order to finalize a treaty by the end of Thursday. She told the audience that, although they had gathered to discuss human health, countries had originally agreed to a treaty addressing plastic litter in the environment. She described plastic debris in the oceans and insufficient waste management systems around the world, saying it would be unacceptable to allow the situation to continue. Help me secure this treaty, she told the room.

One scientist who attended the event said they were taken aback by the forcefulness of Andersens speech, which seemed to shift the conversation away from the full life cycle of plastic and toward pollution at the end of its life. It was clear to participants that she was telling them to tone it down with the health stuff, they told Grist. As head of the U.N. Environment Programme, Andersens aim is to shepherd countries toward a timely deal  but shes faced criticism for doing so at the expense of ambition.

Wide angle view of a conference venue, with people seated in rows facing a large stage. Onstage are high podiums where people are seated facing the crowd. A blue TV screen is above the stage.

Jane Muncke, managing director and chief scientific officer for the Food Packaging Forum, a Swiss nonprofit, said that health is already in the treaty mandate and that it would be preposterous not to include it in the final agreement. I do think there have been some irritations over how strong the health narrative has taken off, she said, but its not for Inger Andersen or anyone in the secretariat to decide.

What happens next is not clear. Delegates have one more day of whirlwind talks to settle their disagreements and approve a draft of the text they all find acceptable  so far, no one has been willing to call for decision-making by a majority vote, meaning theyre still locked into searching for consensus. If they leave Geneva with no deal, the U.N. Environment Programme may have to schedule another round of negotiations, or it may try to add the treaty to the agenda of an upcoming Environment Assembly meeting at the end of the year.

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For human health, as well as the environment and environmental justice, advocacy groups have made their preference clear: No treaty is better than a bad treaty.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Health was supposed to be central to the UN plastics treaty. Now its up for debate. on Aug 13, 2025.
The summer's fourth UK heatwave has sparked fire warnings across Devon and Cornwall.

Dartmoor National Park Authority warned people not to use barbecues or light fires to avoid putting "lives, property and nature at risk".

Ella Briens, Dartmoor's deputy head ranger, said people should take rubbish home, including glass as it could "easily cause a fire if left out in the sun".

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On Tuesday, fire crews were called to a fire in a field and woodland near Bovey Tracey, Devon. The fire service said two fields and some hedgerows were destroyed by the blaze, which was not thought be deliberate.

Firefighters left the scene at 22:00 BST after using water from a local reservoir to help put the fire out, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said.

One crew returned on Wednesday morning to check the site for any remaining hotspots.

There have been more than 500 wildfires across England and Wales so far this year, the National Fire Chiefs Council said.

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.

More on this story
MERTON, Wis. (WFRV)  Heavy rain is raising concerns for a dam in southeast Wisconsin, with officials warning of a high potential for failure.

According to the Hartland Police Department, authorities were notified Tuesday that the Merton Millpond Dam in the Village of Merton was in a Level 2 Emergency State, which indicates a high risk of failure.

U.S. Chemical Safety Board: Company in Wisconsin hasnt implemented 9 safety suggestions 8 years after fatal explosion

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The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says it is confident the dam can be reinforced. However, the Village of Hartland is advising residents and businesses along the Bark River to be aware of possible rising water levels.

Flooding forces temporary closure of Waukesha DNR office

At this time, the dam has not been breached, and its emergency action plan has been activated. Engineers and local authorities are assessing the situation while the DNR works to reinforce the structure, which officials say should mitigate the risk.

Residents along the Bark River are urged to monitor water levels and follow updates from official sources. Water levels could rise within the 100- to 500-year floodplain.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
(NewsNation)  At least three people are dead and another is missing after flash floods engulfed southeastern Tennessee on Tuesday night, authorities said.

The deluge swamped roads and prompted rescue teams into action. One family  two adults and one child  was killed after a tree fell on their car, the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security said.

Authorities were still searching Wednesday for a man who was swept away in the floodwaters, officials said.

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Country music singers mom killed in home invasion stabbing

Among the worst-hit areas was Chattanooga, a low-elevation city with a population of roughly 190,000. Its airport was hit with 6.42 inches of rain Tuesday  the second wettest day in the citys recorded history, according to the National Weather Service Office in Morristown.

Images and videos shared by Chattanoogas first responders and Tennessees Department of Transportation show the deluge in action.

Photos: Chattanooga flash flooding

Rescuers wade through floodwaters in Hamilton County, Tennessee, on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (Credit: Tennessee Department of Transportation) Flooding between I-75 and US 27 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Aug. 12, 2025. (Credit: Chattanooga Fire Department) Cars are submerged in floodwaters in Tennessee on Aug. 12, 2025. (Credit: Tennessee Department of Transportation.) Flooding between I-75 and US 27 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Aug. 12, 2025. (Credit: Chattanooga Fire Department)

Watch: Flooding on Chattanooga interstate

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GROESBECK, Texas (FOX 44)  Fire crews responded to a downtown Groesbeck business on Wednesday morning.

The Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of heavy smoke inside the business. The cause of the heavy smoke was determined to be a faulty appliance.

The Police Department says the 300 block of West Navasota Street remains closed until the fire crews have completed their on-scene assessment and rendered the building safe. Motorists are asked to avoid this area and seek alternative routes.

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The Police and Volunteer Fire Departments were also assisted by fire crews from the Thornton Volunteer Fire Department and the Kosse Fire Department.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44.
(FOX40.COM)  The El Dorado County Sheriffs Office and Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit rescued a hiker who had broken an ankle near the Consumnes River Gorge on Tuesday.

 Video above: Vacant building fire in Sacramento

The hiker was unable to do a self-rescue due to the steep terrain, according to EDCSO.

Galt Police arrest suspect who threatened family with knife

Image: The El Dorado County Sheriffs Office

While the location is a popular spot for enjoying the river, hiking, and climbing, it is considered dangerous and inaccessible by ground vehicles.

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A helicopter was flown to hoist the victim to safety after emergency services were called, according to EDCSO.

Image: The El Dorado County Sheriffs Office

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**Related Video Above: Akron Zoo set attendance record in May

AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  Theres a precious new white-cheeked gibbon baby at the Akron Zoo, but the ape doesnt have a name yet. Thats where the public comes in to play.

Elderly lion at the Akron Zoo diagnosed with chronic kidney disease

The zoo is holding a contest through Aug. 25 for people to vote for free on the following names for the male baby:

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Leuco (pronounced Loo-koh)

Kien (pronounced Kee-en)

Coda

Rain

Khai

Once the voting period is over, the babys family is going to pick between the top two names. The zoo said they plan to put the names on enrichment items and see which the gibbons choose first.

Photo courtesy Akron Zoo

Mom Parker gave birth to the baby on June 27, joining dad Milo and sister Lolani, who was born in 2021.

Ball of swirling light over NE Ohio: What was it

White-cheeked gibbons  an ape species from Southeast Asia  are considered critically endangered in the wild, with the zoo saying the population has been slashed by 80% over the past 50 years.

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Find out much more about the Akron Zoo right here.

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A Tallahassee hemp store. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

Hemp companies are asking for more consistency from state inspectors, whove spent the summer cracking down on packaging that could appeal to minors.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services proposed a state definition of what can be considered a cartoon on packaging for hemp products such as THC drinks, gummies, and more during a hearing Wednesday in Tallahassee.

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Under the initial proposed language, the state would define a cartoon as any drawing or other depiction of an object, person, animal, creature, or any similar caricature that uses comically exaggerated features, attribution of human characteristics to animals, plants, or other objects, or the similar use of anthropomorphic technique, or the attribution of unnatural or extra-human abilities, such as imperviousness to pain or injury, X-ray vision, tunnelling at very high speeds, or transformation.

The definition was taken from tobacco litigation discussing what could be considered attractive to children, the state said.

State law prohibits hemp products from being attractive to children and already prohibits depicting the shape of humans, cartoons, or animals, as well as candy.

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Call for consistency

During the hearing on the language Wednesday, hemp industry representatives called for consistency in enforcement.

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What were asking for today are clear rules of the road and ways to check our work before we invest, Bayou City Hemp Co. co-founder Jeromy Sherman said.

He added that the companys production process takes six months or more. Arbitrary, after-the-fact enforcement, especially when its trusted retailers in the state of Florida, creates a ripple effect that punishes the companies trying to play by the rules and rewards fly-by-night operators.

Sherman asked the department for a pre-approval process from the department to determine what counts as a cartoon before the product goes into production, pointing out that some other states require pre-approval.

This summer, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the department conducted Operation Safe Summer, whereby inspectors removed more than 150,000 packages of hemp products they considered to violate child-protection standards and since 2023 have removed more than 800,000 packages.

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The campaign was not a one-time sweep, either, Simpson said in a news release. The department will aggressively pursue bad actors until the hemp industry gets the message.

We applaud those efforts and encourage further actions in that regard, Sherman said. However, he asked for consistency and clarity.

The state should provide Bright, yet workable, lines for compliance, he said.

Li Massie of Akerman LLP, representing hemp beverage companies, said investigators looking at the same product at different stores have come to different conclusions as to what is a cartoon, likening the process to a gamble for companies.

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Too much discretion means that industry members are not able to properly plan ahead for compliance, Massie said, noting the potential for First Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment concerns.

Patrick Shatzer, representing SunMed CBD, said theres been complete inconsistency in inspections.

The department provided a 10-day extension for the public to submit comments. Next will come a proposed rule, followed by another opportunity for public feedback.

Correction: An earlier version of this story misreported seizures of non-legally conforming hemp products. State inspectors removed more than 150,000 packages of hemp products this summer and 800,000 since 2023.

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HENDERSON COUNTY, Ky. (WEHT)  Henderson County Officials passed a new vehicle ordinance, making it legal for certain UTVs and other vehicles to be driven on roads in the county.

The ordinance was adopted after the Kentucky General Assembly said it was allowed to do so if the municipality wanted to.

One resident Anthony ONeal says, Im for it, itll help a lot of people out around here.

Henderson County residents are reacting after the fiscal court passes an ordinance, allowing types of utility terrain vehicles to be street legal, but Sheriff Chip Stauffer says its the same restrictions as a normal motor vehicle, including consequences behind the wheel.

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Stauffer says, The thought of hey, Im going to hang out with my buddies and not drive my car because Im going to drive my UTV and Im going to have a good time and were going to go to the cookout. Listen, you still have to abide by the same traffic regulations and requirements.

Each vehicle must be registered, licensed, and inspected.

Judge Executive Brad Schneider says its only for unincorporated areas of Henderson County: you cannot drive on highways or interstates.

Schneider says, They want to confine it as much as possible within reason. The country roads, which are a little bit safer and traverse a little bit slower, but if youre on a road with the center line, you can go twenty miles and then you got to et the heck off it.

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Each SLSPV must have specific criteria to pass the $25 inspection.

Some requirements include: brake lamps, electric turn signals, a working muffler, horn or warning device, illuminated speedometer, a roll bar or roll cage, and multi passenger vehicles must have a federally conforming seatbelt assembly.

ONeal says. hes for the ordinance in a safe manner.

ONeal says, Families, I mean kids and their parents they go down to the Robards store a lot, and a lot of them run side by side and different things. I mean, its fun. You can get out, enjoy the day and you know, just have a good time and theyre not hurting anything. I mean, you dont see any trouble at all. So I think itd be great if people could do that legally.

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The ordinance will take effect on August 15.

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HENDERSON COUNTY, Texas (KETK) A Henderson County woman, who was one of five people arrested earlier this year after a drug bust, has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison.

According to the Henderson County District Attorneys Office, Tiffany Nicole Williams was arrested on Feb. 27 after four grams of methamphetamine and a large amount of cash were found in her bedroom. Following this arrest, Williams was charged with the manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance.

Smith County lieutenants perseverance leads to success

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Her February arrest came while she was out on bond from an earlier arrest. Williams was previously arrested in November 2024 in connection with a civil complaint.

According to authorities, on Nov.13, 2024, members of the Henderson County Sheriffs Office arrived at home after receiving a complaint that Williams was parked outside of a house. Once deputies arrived on the scene, they observed Williams in the drivers seat of a car parked outside the home.

Mugshot of Tiffany Williams, courtesy of Henderson County Jail

After deputies approached Williams, she quickly drove off, leading to a pursuit. Following the pursuit, she eventually came to a stop after driving around the block. According to officials, Williams got out of the car and approached the house. Deputies then discovered two bags containing 7.06 grams of narcotics that she had thrown out of her vehicle.

18-year-old wanted by Texarkana PD for organized crime, assault with deadly weapon

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She was then charged with possession of a controlled substance, tampering with physical evidence, and evading arrest. Earlier this week, the 392nd District Court sentenced Williams to 15 years in prison for manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, tampering with physical evidence and evading arrest by Judge R. Scott McKee.

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A live snake, a replica skeleton and chemistry equipment were among the stolen items recovered as three suspects, including a juvenile, were arrested in connection with the vandalism of a San Gabriel Valley high school, police said Tuesday.

The break-in took place around midnight on July 20 when the suspects entered Whittier High School through a window.

Not only did the suspects cause approximately $10,000 worth of damages, but they also stole approximately $12,000 worth of items from multiple classrooms, including a live snake, the Whittier Police Department stated in its post on Facebook.

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The next day, a school resource officer helped police identify one of the suspects, a local juvenile, who was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism and burglary.

A search warrant was conducted at the juveniles residence, and all the stolen property was recovered, including: the live snake, a live fish, multiple pieces of chemistry equipment, a replica skeleton, etc., police said.

However, the two remaining suspects had eluded police until Monday, when detectives identified Whittier residents Jayden Martin, 19, and Alexiah Valles, 18.

Martin and Valles were also arrested without incident and booked on suspicion of felony vandalism and burglary, police said.

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OGLE COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO)  A 27-year-old woman from Davis Junction, Keyosha Johnson, was arrested after a high-speed police chase while she was high on drugs, according to Ogle County authorities.

Around 8:40 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12th, deputies stopped Johnson in the 6000 block of N. Illinois Route 251.

The Ogle County Sheriff reported that Johnson sped away from the traffic stop at speeds between 26-34 mph over the limit.

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She was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of drugs, aggravated driving under the influence, no valid drivers license, aggravated fleeing to elude, resisting arrest, obstructing identification, driving on a suspended license, speeding, and multiple traffic violations.

Johnson was taken to Rochelle Community Hospital for evaluation after the arrest and then taken to the Ogle County Jail. She was later released under provisions of the Pretrial Fairness Act, and given a notice to appear at a future court date.

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(NewsNation)  Five new high-tech surveillance camera towers are being rolled out in the U.S. Border Patrols Del Rio, Texas, sector, which will allow agents to spot migrant gotaways who have previously eluded federal immigration officers line of sight after entering the United States illegally.

White House border czar Tom Homan has boasted that the number of gotaways has dropped significantly since President Donald Trump took office in January. However, Border Patrol agents assigned to work in the Del Rio sector say the real concern is the unknown of what they cant detect.

Agents save siblings on brink of dehydration on remote Otay Mountain trail

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Although the sectors acting chief, Desi De Leon, told NewsNation that the number of gotaways is limited to single figures each day in Del Rio, the camera system will assist the agency in moving closer to achieving the goal of dropping that number to zero.

Five new surveillance camera towers will be built in Del Rio, Texas, providing U.S. Border Patrol agents with an additional technological tool to monitor illegal border crossings. (Travis Harrison/NewsNation)

The region has seen illegal migrant crossings drop to less than 500 a day after the area, which includes Eagle Pass, was among the most heavily trafficked areas along the U.S.-Mexico border in previous years.

The camera system feeds live video footage to Border Patrol agents, and if and when a migrant crosses the border illegally, the system sends real-time alerts to agents. But officials said that the presence of the towers will also serve as a deterrent to those considering trying to enter the United States illegally. The towers will replace those that have not been in use.

Its a multilayered system  we have personnel technology and tactical infrastructure, De Leon told NewsNation on Wednesday. So we layer all of our assets according to where our gaps are or where we want the (migrant) activity to go.

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Meanwhile, in the neighboring Big Bend Sector, officials are rolling out what federal immigration officers call mission-critical upgrades that will improve the technology being used to monitor migrant activity in a region known for its rugged and remote terrain.

udge halts ICE detentions at NYC facility after concerns over conditions

However, despite the addition of the cameras, Texas lawmakers saw that resources like the new cameras may not be enough to stop Mexican drug cartels from operating along the border.

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, told NewsNation that until Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum does more to stop smuggling humans and trafficking drugs across the border, military action by U.S. troops will be needed to assist with immigration enforcement.

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Mexican officials have pushed back against the possible presence of American troops south of the border, but Gonzales says officials may not have a choice. The threat of sending troops in comes after 26 high-level drug traffickers, including some from the Sinaloa cartel, were extradited to Mexico on Tuesday.

Gonzales said more needs to happen.

NewsNation reported this week that the cartels have shifted their focus to making profits from the trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine since illegal border crossings have dropped so significantly under Trump. The cartels have also continued to target American drivers to transport migrants once they enter the country illegally.

We need the Mexican government to do its job and make sure their country is safe, so our country is safe, Gonzales told NewsNation. When it is not, it creates a lot of chaos and forces us to get involved.

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Former Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes said Wednesday hes doubtful Ukraine will recover all of its territory occupied by Russia amid ongoing peace talks brokered by President Trump.

Part of what the Ukrainians dont have is a kind of sense of hope, a sense that they have enduring support from the United States, that they have a plan from their allies to support them in the long run, Rhodes, who was an adviser to former President Obama, said during an appearance on MSNBCs Chris Jansing Reports.

And look, the reality is, I would acknowledge that it is incredibly unlikely that Ukraine would recover certainly all the territory that Russia occupies  certainly Crimea, for instance, he added.

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Trump, whos slated to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, has already signaled that a land swap may be necessary to end the war.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, its military has captured swaths of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in the eastern Donbas. Early in the war, Russia illegally moved to officially annex the Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said this week that any effort to cede Ukrainian territory would violate Ukraines constitution, and that Kyiv would not remove its forces from the Donbas in exchange for peace.

If today we leave Donbas, from our fortifications, from our reliefs, from the heights that we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for preparing an offensive by the Russians. In a few years, Putin will have an open path to both the Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro regions. And not only that. Also to Kharkiv, Zelensky told reporters Tuesday, according to PoliticoEU.

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Rhodes said ending the war will not only pose questions about land ownership, but also the people living on either side of the dividing line.

What happens to the Ukrainian children that have been taken into Russia, essentially kidnapped? What happens to the Ukrainians are living on the other side of that front line? Do they choose whether they want to live in Ukraine? Rhodes said.

Really importantly, what happens to the future of Ukraine if they are going to lose territory as a part of some kind of quote, unquote deal here. Do they get security guarantees? Can they join NATO? Can they join the European Union? If they cant join NATO itself?

Rhodes said Trump doesnt seem to be considering these broader questions ahead of his discussion with Putin.

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These are all the kind of complex questions that Trump is not engaging with here, and I think that is why this feels somewhat haphazard here, because theres a whole set of issues here beyond just a real estate deal, which is how Trump has literally talked about this, that get at the survival of Ukraine, he told MSNBC.

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SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A new change is coming to Highway 16 as a four-way stop is being added.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation said in a news release that the four-way stop is being added on August 25 to the intersection of Highway 16 and Kenwood Street.

South Fayetteville nuisance property catches fire, city attorney responds

The idea for the intersection started when the city of Siloam Springs requested a study to see if the intersection warranted a traffic signal.

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According to the official press release, while the intersection did not warrant a traffic signal, it did meet the criteria for a four-way stop to replace the current two-way stop.

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A hiker is dead after he was bitten on the hand while picking up a rattlesnake on a trail at the Savage Gulf State Park in Grundy County, authorities say.

Grundy County is about two hours southeast of Nashville on Interstate 24.

Rescue crews were called to the trailhead on 55th Avenue at about 12:30 p.m. Aug. 8, the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency said. When they found the hiker, they immediately started CPR until he was hooked up to a mobile CPR machine.

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The man was rushed to a hospital, where he later likely died from an allergic reaction to the snake's venom, the agency said.

More: With warmer weather comes Tennessee's most venomous creatures: What to do if you're bitten

What to do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake

If you or someone with you is bitten by a venomous snake, called 911 immediately, especially if the bitten area changes color, swells or is painful, the Mayo Clinic said.

While waiting for help, the Mayo Clinic recommends these steps:

Move far away from the snake

Stay calm

Remove any jewelry, watches or tight clothing before swelling starts

Sit or lie down so that the bite is in a neutral, comfortable position

Clean the bite with soap and water. Cover or wrap it loosely with a clean, dry bandage

How common are rattlesnakes in Tennessee?

Tennessee is home to two varieties of venomous rattlesnake  the timber rattlesnake and the pygmy rattlesnake.

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Tennessee's other venomous snakes are copperheads and cottonmouths.

Timber rattlesnakes are the largest and most dangerous of the four venomous snakes in the state, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency. The large, heavy-bodied snake has a large triangular head, vertical pupils and a rattle. Their bodies can vary in color from tan and brown to gray and black.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are much smaller with a tinier rattle and are considered very rare. They're listed as imperiled by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and largely reside along the western highland Rim from Stewart County to the southern border, according to the agency.

Most snake bites occur when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing, the U.S. Forest Service said.

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The snake that bit the hiker was likely a timber rattlesnake. Their habitats include mature, heavily wooded forests with rocky hillsides, bluffs or ledges, according to the wildlife agency.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Grundy County hiker dies after picking up rattlesnake, bitten on hand
The Chelan County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) says their dispatch received a text-to-911 call on Sunday from a hiker who heard someone yelling for help due to a possible broken ankle.

The first text came in at around 6:12 p.m. and responders learned the injured hiker was near Aasgard Pass, close to Dragontail Peak, CCSO said in a release.

The US Army Air Ambulance Detachment Yakima Dustoff rescue helicopter was dispatched and picked up two Chelan County Mountain Rescue volunteers from the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery, according to the sheriffs office.

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The mountain rescue team was dropped off at Aasgard Pass and found the 21-year-old injured hiker and his hiking partner about 900 feet above Colchuck Lake.

The US Army helicopter couldnt land due to the proximity to the cliffs, and the two rescue volunteers stayed with the hiker overnight.

A Snohomish County Helicopter Rescue Team was dispatched and hoisted the injured hiker

from the base of Dragontail Peak while two additional mountain rescuers hiked out with the patients partner, CCSO said in a release.

The 21-year-old man was flown to the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery at around 9:20 a.m. and refused treatment.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt had a clear mind about the value of Social Security on Aug. 14, 1935, the day he signed it into law.

"The civilization of the past hundred years, with its startling industrial changes, has tended more and more to make life insecure," he said in the Oval Office. "We can never insure 100 per cent of the population against 100 per cent of the hazards and vicissitudes of life, but we have tried to frame a law which will give some measure of protection to the average citizen and to his family against ... poverty-ridden old age."

He called it a "cornerstone in a structure which is being built but is by no means complete." FDR envisioned further programs to bring relief to the needy and healthcare for all Americans. Some of that happened during the following nine decades, but the structure is still incomplete. And now, as Social Security observes the 90th anniversary of that day, the program faces a crisis.

'This is about whether we redefine a relationship between individuals and government that we've had since 1935. We say that what was done was wrong then, and it's wrong now.'

Cato Institute's Michael D. Tanner, setting forth the rationale for killing Social Security in 2005

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If there are doubts about whether Social Security will survive long enough to observe its centennial, those have less to do with its fiscal challenges, the solutions of which are certainly within the economic reach of the richest nation on Earth. They have more to do with partisan politics, specifically the culmination of a decades-long GOP project to dismantle the most successful, and the most popular, government assistance program in American history.

From a distance, the raids on the program's customer service infrastructure and the security of its data mounted by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency earlier this year looked somewhat random.

Fueled by abject ignorance about how the program worked and what its data meant, DOGE set in place plans to cut the program's staff by 7,000, or 12%, and to close dozens of field offices serving Social Security applicants and beneficiaries. This at a time when the Social Security caseload is higher than ever and staffing had already approached a 50-year low.

This might have been billed as an effort to impose "efficiency" on the system. But "a more accurate description," writes Monique Morrissey of the labor-oriented Economic Policy Institute, "is sabotage."

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That has been conservatives' long-term plan  make interactions with Social Security more involved, more difficult and more time-consuming in order to make it seem ever less relevant to average Americans' lives. Once that happened, the public would be softened up to accept a privatized retirement system.

Read more: Hiltzik: Social Security sends millions of Americans a misleading and 'blatantly political' message

Get the inefficient government off the backs of the people, the idea goes, so Wall Street can saddle up. George W. Bush's privatization plan, indeed, was conceived and promoted by Wall Street bankers, who thirsted for access to the trillions of dollars passing through the system's hands.

This was never much of a secret, but it simmered beneath the surface. But Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking at a July 30 event sponsored by Breitbart News, said the quiet part out loud. Referring to a private savings account program enacted as part of the GOP budget reconciliation bill Trump signed July 4, Bessent said, "In a way, it is a back door for privatizing Social Security."

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The private accounts are to be jump-started with $1,000 deposits for children born this year through 2028, to be invested in stock index mutual funds; families can add up to $5,000 annually in after-tax income, with withdrawals beginning when the child reaches 18, though in some cases incurring a stiff penalty.

I asked the Treasury Department for a clarification of Bessent's remark, but didn't receive a reply. Bessent, however, did try to walk the statement back via a post on X in which he stated that the Trump accounts are "an additive benefit for future generations, which will supplement the sanctity of Social Security's guaranteed payments."

Sorry, Mr. Secretary, no sale. You're the one who talked about "privatizing Social Security" at the Breitbart event. You're stuck with it.

Plainly, an "additive" benefit would have nothing to do with Social Security. How it would "supplement the sanctity" of Social Security benefits isn't apparent from Bessent's statement or the law. Still, we can parse out the implications based on the long history of conservative attacks on the program.

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Read more: Hiltzik: Trump's Kafkaesque attack on Social Security--Declaring living people as dead

In 1983, the libertarian Cato Journal published a paper by Stuart Butler and Peter Germanis, two policy analysts at the right-wing Heritage Foundation, titled "Achieving a 'Leninist' Strategy  i.e., for privatizing Social Security. From Lenin they drew the idea of mobilizing the working class to undermine existing capitalist structures.

Cato's "Leninist" strategy paper explicitly advocated encouraging workers to opt out of Social Security by promising them a payroll tax reduction if they put the money in a private account.

IRAs, the authors asserted, would acclimate Americans to entrusting their retirements to a privatized system. They advocated an increase in the maximum annual contribution and its tax deductibility.

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"The public would gradually become more familiar with the private option," they wrote. "If that did happen, it would be far easier than it is now to adopt the private plan as their principal source of old-age insurance and retirement income." In other words, it would provide a back door for privatizing Social Security.

(Germanis has since emerged as a cogent critic of conservative economics. Butler served at Heritage until 2014 and is currently a scholar in residence at the Brookings Institution; he told me in March that he still believes in parallel systems of private retirement savings as we have today, but as "add on" savings rather than a substitute for Social Security.)

The Cato Institute, a think tank co-founded by Charles Koch, has never relinquished its quest to privatize Social Security; the notion still occupies pride of place on the institution's web page devoted to the program.

In 2005, when I attended a two-day conference on the topic at Cato's Washington headquarters, Michael D. Tanner, then the chair of Cato's Social Security task force, explained that Cato wasn't concerned so much with the system's fiscal and economic issues as with its politics. Its goal, he stated frankly, was to unmake FDR's New Deal.

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Read more: Hiltzik: The richest Americans finished paying their Social Security taxes last week. Most of us will pay all year

"This is about whether we redefine a relationship between individuals and government that we've had since 1935," he told me. "We say that what was done was wrong then, and it's wrong now. Our position is that people need to be responsible for their own lives."

Yet forcing dramatic change on a program so widely trusted and appreciated is a heavy lift. That's why Republicans have tried to downplay their intentions. Back in 2019, for instance, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) talked about the need to hold discussions about Social Security's future "behind closed doors."

Secrecy was essential, Ernst said, so were not being scrutinized by this group or the other, and just have an open and honest conversation about what are some of the ideas that we have for maintaining Social Security in the future.

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As I observed at the time, that was a giveaway: The only time politicians take actions behind closed doors is when they know the results will be massively unpopular. Raising taxes on the rich to pay for Social Security benefits? That discussion can be held in the open, because the option is decisively favored in opinion polls. Cut benefits? That needs to be done in secret, because Americans overwhelmingly oppose it.

Curiously, Trump and his fellow Republicans seem to think that attacking Social Security is an electoral winner. Possibly they've lost sight of the program's importance to the average American.

Among Social Security beneficiaries age 65 and older, 39% of men and 44% of women receive half their income or more from Social Security. In the same cohort, 12% of men and 15% of women rely on Social Security for 90% or more of their income.

Notwithstanding that reality, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick recently asserted that delays in sending out Social Security checks or bank deposits would be no big deal.

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Read more: Hiltzik: A Social Security insider describes DOGE's rampage at the agency and the threat to your benefits

Lets say Social Security didnt send out their checks this month, Lutnick said. My mother-in-law, whos 94  she wouldnt call and complain. ... Shed think something got messed up, and shell get it next month. He claimed that only "fraudsters" would complain.

I had a different take. Mine was that even a 24-hour delay in benefit payments would have a cataclysmic fallout for the Republican Party. It would be front-page news coast to coast. There would be nowhere for them to hide.

While bringing misery to millions of Americans, a delay  which would be unprecedented since the first checks went out in 1940  would be a gift for Democrats, if they knew how to use it.

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Where will we go from here? The current administration has already done damage to this critically important program. An acting commissioner Trump installed briefly interfered with the enrollment process for infants born in Maine  an important procedure to ensure that government benefits continue to flow to their families  because the state's governor had pushed back against Trump in public.

In July, the newly appointed Social Security commissioner, Frank Bisignano, allowed a false and flagrantly political email to go out to beneficiaries and to be posted on the program's website implying that the budget reconciliation bill relieved most seniors of federal income taxes on their benefits. It did nothing of the kind.

To the extent that Social Security may face a fiscal reckoning in the next decade, the most effective fix is well-understood by those familiar with the program's structure. It is removing the income cap on the payroll tax, which tops out this year at $176,100 in wage income.

Up to that point, wages are taxed at 12.4%, split evenly between workers and their employers. Above the ceiling, the tax is zero. Remove the cap, and make capital gains, dividends and interest income subject to the tax, and Social Security will remain fully solvent into the foreseeable future.

Trump and his fellow Republicans don't seem to understand how most Americans view Social Security: as an "entitlement," not because they think they're getting something for nothing, but because they know they've paid for it all their working lives.

As much as the system's foes would like it to go away, as long as the rest of us remain vigilant against efforts to "redefine a relationship between individuals and government" established in 1935, we will be able to celebrate its 100th anniversary 10 years from now, in 2035.

Get the latest from Michael Hiltzik

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
With more rain expected over the next several days, flash floods swept through southeastern Tennessee late Tuesday, Aug. 12, as storms tracked the region, dumping 6 inches of rain onto Chattanooga and nearby suburbs.

Three people were killed in the historic flooding  which marked the second-wettest day in state history  when a tree toppled onto a car in East Ridge, about 8 miles east of Chattanooga, after saturated ground caused the large tree to fall on a mother, father and child.

By early Wednesday, Aug. 13, rainfall totals had exceeded half a foot in some parts of the Chattanooga metropolitan area with widespread flash flooding across the region as those impacted prepare to brace for rain through at least Friday, Aug. 15.

Chattanooga Airport has recorded 6.42" of rain so far today. This is the second wettest 1-day total in the city's period of record, going back to 1879. The record is 9.49" of rain from T.S. Lee's remnants in September 2011.  NWS Morristown (@NWSMorristown) August 13, 2025

Is the Tennessee River overflowing? How this week's floods compare to Chattanoogas 1867 flood

Chattanooga has a long history of flooding, with past storms shaping the city in different ways. While this weeks flash floods drew attention across neighborhoods and local waterways, they are part of a story that stretches back more than a century  to the citys largest flood on record in 1867.

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And both events illustrate how flooding can take very different forms  from sudden surges in local creeks to major river overflows that reshape entire communities.

This week's flash flooding was driven largely by the sudden surge of local creeks and tributaries that quickly overwhelmed banks, streets and low-lying neighborhoods, turning roads into rushing streams and causing widespread flash flooding.

For instance, South Chickamauga Creek near Chickamauga peaked at 9,450 cubic feet per second, up 47-fold from its normal flow of less than 200 cfs. Wolftever Creek near Ooltewah spiked to 1,650 cfs, far above its typical summer flow, according to data from the U.S. Geological Survey.

By contrast, Chattanoogas deadly 1867 flood came from the Tennessee River overflowing, rising 58 feet above normal after four days of heavy rain  as much as 6 inches an hour  combined with melting snow. The river continued to rise at roughly 1 foot per hour, submerging much of the city overnight.

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Some accounts described streets completely flooded and debris such as old doors and windows sticking out of sidewalks, as well as significant loss of life as corpses floated down the city's flooded streets.

Hamilton County declares state of emergency after historic flooding

On Aug. 12, Hamilton County Mayor Weston declared "a Local State of Emergency as first responders across Hamilton County respond to flash flooding."

"We have been in communication with both TEMA and the Governors Office and will continue to assess damage overnight and into the morning," said Wamp. "We ask the public to please exercise extreme caution."

When will the rain stop?

The National Weather Service recorded 6.42 inches of rain across the area, making it the second-wettest single day in the citys recorded history, which dates back to 1879.

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The NWS office in Morristown warns of heavy rain expected today, Aug. 13, with continued chances of precipitation throughout the week and additional heavy rainfall forecast for the weekend.

"Localized flash flooding potential for much of East Tennessee, southwest North Carolina and southwest Virginia through Wednesday. Heavy rainfall rates are expected.

Eastern Tennessee weather radar

Tennessee weather watches and warnings

Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text

Brandi D. Addison covers weather across the United States as the Weather Connect Reporter for the USA TODAY Network. She can be reached at baddison@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Is this Chattanooga's worst flood? How Aug. 12 compares to 1867 flood
Parts of a centuries-old hotel gutted by fire are still "salvageable", experts have said.

The blaze, believed to have been deliberately stared, tore through the black and white timbered Raven Hotel in Droitwich Spa on Sunday, causing parts of the Grade II listed building to collapse.

Heritage architect Christian Montez, who inspected the hotel, said he was "shocked" at the damage, but parts could "definitely" be saved.

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Droitwich Civic Society has said if Notre Dame can be rebuilt after the devastating fire in Paris, the spa town's landmark hotel can be rebuilt too.

Parts of the Grade II listed former Raven Hotel dated back to the 15th Century [BBC]

Mr Montez, who was there as Historic England met the building owners Inroka Limited and councillors on Tuesday to talk about next steps, said the main structure dated back to the 15th Century.

He said it was an important building for the town and, despite the extent of the damage, added that posts and trusses were still standing.

"There is structure still within the building," he said.

The architect said the owners already had permission to demolish 60% of the site at the back of the building, with the core parts and oldest sections remaining.

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He said: "The likelihood is that demolition will happen to the rear, bringing down the wall in the middle and then securing what's left, and then clearing it for a proper assessment of what survives."

The blaze gutted the building, parts of which are thought to date back more than 500 years [PA Media]

John Armstrong, from Droitwich Civic Society, said: "There's no reason why the Elizabethan part of the Raven can't be saved.

"If the French can save Notre Dame, pulling together, we can save the Raven for the future.

"That would be something to be really proud of, and something the people of Droitwich Spa can look forward to."

Wychavon District Council leader Richard Morris said Tuesday's meeting was "very constructive".

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He said Historic England representatives looked at the hotel and said there was a "saveable" building.

"Their impression before they arrived, was that it was ashes," he added.

A spokesperson for Historic England said one of its specialist structural engineers would assess the building, and added the organisation was providing advice to the council.

Two girls, 13 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of arson and have since been released on bail.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.

More on this story

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LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has awarded $250,000 in grants to six Michigan communities, including East Lansing and Mason.

The grants have been awarded as part of the federal Historic Preservation Fund (HPF), a Certified Local Government (CLG) program administered by the SHPO that will benefit local preservation efforts.

SHPO reports that the CLG program is a partnership among local, state, and national governments focused on promoting historic preservation at the community level.

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The Certified Local Government program continues to be one of the strongest tools for supporting historic preservation projects at the local level, said State Historic Preservation Officer Ryan M. Schumaker in a news release sent to 6 News.

We are pleased to support this years awardees as they build on ongoing initiatives to document, preserve and tell the story of important historic places in their communities.

City of East Lansing

The City of East Lansing is receiving a grant to develop a resource guide for its historic districts. SHPO reports that the funds will be targeted toward current and prospective property owners, contractors, and other community stakeholders.

The guide aims to enhance understanding of preservation best practices and encourage responsible management practices.

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Were just thrilled that were one of the recipients, City of East Lansing Principal Planner Landon Bartley said. Were very excited for what this resource guide could do for our homeowners and others in the community.

Bartley mentioned that the city has not had a new resource guide since 1992.

City of Mason

The City of Mason is receiving a grant to hire a contractor to complete the rehabilitation of historic windows at the Mason Public Library. SHPO reports that the building has served the community since its construction in 1939.

The library is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places as part of Masons downtown historic district.

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The project is part of a multi-phase rehabilitation program, intended to ensure that the building remains a viable community resource for future generations.

Other communities receiving grants include:

City of Battle Creek

City of Kalamazoo

City of Saginaw

Motor City Theatre Organ Society/City of Detroit

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
HOBOKEN, N.J. (PIX11)  Labor Day weekend brings travelers to the city, to the beach, or heading out of town.

Workers will be on the job making repairs at Hobokens PATH Train station during the long weekend from late Thursday evening to early Tuesday morning.

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A social media post dated Friday, August 8, announced the work.

The closure starts 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, August 28. The station is scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. on the following Tuesday as the typical weekday commute resumes.

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Agency officials say ridership is usually lower during the holiday weekend.

PATH describes it as urgent repairs to the track and interlocking system and that there will be extensive travel alternatives available.

Some signs are already up at Hoboken Station because the equipment issue started last month. Rush hour trains have been running every 10 minutes.

For the Labor Day weekend, Hoboken commuters can take the New York Waterway Ferry for $3.

Free shuttle buses will run to the nearby Newport and Exchange Place stations. NJ Transit Rail will cross-honor.

Customers can also travel between Hoboken and the Port Authority Midtown Bus Terminal via NJ TRANSITs 126 Bus, which will have supplemental service during the closure. PATH also promises to increase service on other lines.

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PATH used to be the most reliable thing to and from the city. I bragged to people that we have a great transportation system, said commuter Elijah Conlin.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

PATH officials say the custom-made interlocking was installed during the 25-day closure of the Hoboken station in February.

It has experienced mechanical failures in recent weeks due to design issues.

The Port Authority, which operates PATH, has hundreds of millions of dollars in improvement projects happening along the lines.

PATH train officials were not available for an interview.

Along with the alternative routes, a post on the website and social media accounts explains the issue, the detours, and issues an apology for the disruption.

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Any failure of this new equipment is unacceptable, and the manufacturer, installation contractor, or any party at fault for its failure will be held accountable. The Port Authority prioritizes the safety of the riding public and is committed to ensuring safe and reliable PATH service, the statement said.

Hoboken City Councilmember Tiffanie Fisher has been meeting with PATH train officials.

My focus is always on providing support for residents who rely on public transportation. Its not been reliable lately, said Councilmember Fisher.

More Transit News

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla has also been in close contact with the agency.

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PATH has committed to further coordination with Hobokens Office of Emergency Management, Department of Transportation, and our Communications team, as we get closer to the Labor Day weekend closure, with the goal of continuing to move commuters who rely on the PATH service by other means safely and as efficiently as possible, the mayor wrote in a statement to PIX11 News.

The agency continues to investigate why the equipment issue happened.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Tina McDonald, a nurse who provides foot care to homebound patients, had to stop seeing patients in Rhode Island in 2023 after state regulators told her state law excludes nurses from providing such care. She now serves patients exclusively in Massachusetts, including Josephine Calhoun of Seekonk, Mass. (Photo by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current)

Thirty minutes, every other month was all it took for Tina McDonald to make a difference in the lives of Claudia Dunagan and her nonagenarian mother, Hazel.

Armed with a smile and a bag of sterilized foot care equipment, McDonald, a wound and ostomy nurse, skillfully and gently trimmed the thick toenails that Hazel, a homebound diabetic, could no longer care for herself.

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For 16 months, it was the perfect solution. Until it wasnt.

Two months after Hazels 100th birthday, in January 2024, McDonald texted Dunagan to cancel their upcoming appointment. The Rhode Island Department of Health had issued a cease and desist order, forcing her to halt the business shed begun 12 years earlier, unknowingly violating state laws governing foot care.

Dunagan, 77, searched for an alternative, asking certified nursing assistants and home hospice nurses, even considering a peducurist willing to come to her Providence condo. Their answers were the same: We cant touch feet.

Basic foot care is especially crucial, but also more complicated, for people with diabetes, arthritis and other underlying blood and vascular conditions, which are also more prevalent in seniors. Lack of regular nail trims and callus shaving can lead to serious medical consequences, including infections and falls.

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There was no one in the entire state, Dunagan said in a recent interview. I had zero options.

Legislation introduced this year by Rep. Jennifer Boylan, a Barrington Democrat, sought to give the mother-daughter duo, and others like them, a solution. The bill would clarify the uncertainty in state law by explicitly allowing certified nurses to perform routine preventive and maintenance foot care at home. It seemed an obvious solution  one allowed in every state in the country except Rhode Island.

It sounds trivial to someone who is healthy and can reach their feet, but as soon as you cant, its not, Boylan said. Its quite frankly unacceptable that people are going without care. In an elderly population, every day, every month counts.

Boylans bill won unanimous support in the Rhode Island House in a June 12 vote. But it failed to advance in the Rhode Island Senate, and ultimately, died without even a hearing before the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services.

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Greg Pare, a spokesperson for the Senate, said it was a timing and logistics problem  without a Senate companion, the chamber had to wait till Boylans bill passed the House to consider it. There just wasnt enough time before the 2025 legislative session ended on June 21.

Should a version of this legislation come before the Senate earlier in next years session, it will be reviewed, Pare said in an email.

Boylan pledged to reintroduce the same, revised bill early in the 2026 session. She already has a Senate sponsor, Sen. Lori Urso, a Pawtucket Democrat.

Hazel Dunagan is shown at her 100th birthday celebration in November 2023 in Providence. She died in February 2024 after going months without having her feet treated or nails cut because her family was unable to find someone to provide the service at home. Left to right are Hazels daughter Claudia, nephew Kevin, Hazel and son Ben Dunagan. (Photo courtesy of Claudia Dunagan)

350 people on waiting list

Dunagans mother died in February 2024. But hundreds of homebound seniors and their caregivers are still searching for someone to provide the basic foot care critical for safety, wellness, and dignity.

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McDonald amassed a 350-person waiting list during the four months of 2023 when she paused her practice while the state nursing board conducted a review after receiving an anonymous complaint.

State nursing law doesnt explicitly prohibit nurses from providing home foot care. They dont name it as a provided service, either. Meanwhile, a separate section of state law governing podiatry stipulates that only licensed podiatrists can treat feet.

The state health department cited the podiatry law as the reason why McDonald could not provide home foot care.

The nursing regulations are vague, McDonald said. To me, this falls within our nursing practice, but I didnt want to risk losing my license.

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Lynda DAlessia, state nursing director, did not respond to inquiries for comment.

There was no one in the entire state. I had zero options.

 Claudia Dunagan of Providence on her fruitless search for home foot care for her nonagenarian mother, Hazel.

McDonald has now rebuilt her business to exclusively focus on Massachusetts, and has a contract with Bristol Aging & Wellness, a nonprofit serving seniors in Bristol County, Massachusetts. Her former patients did not fare as well.

Anne Hagan, a home hospice nurse who lives in Warwick, wrote to lawmakers with a litany of stories, including a homebound veteran whose neglected toenails had grown so long and thick he couldnt trim them with standard clippers. He eventually took a jacknife to his nails, ending up in a pool of blood, Hagan wrote.

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Leigh Anne Cappello, a Barrington resident, described an aging family member whose foot cyst became infected after it went undetected.

It is easy to go unnoticed since their feet are largely covered in socks, slippers or shoes, Cappello wrote. What could have been addressed with some basic foot health/hygiene care turns into a more difficult problem that can even affect mobility  something that is so critical to their overall health.

McDonald sympathized in her testimony to House lawmakers during a March 27 hearing on Boylans bill.

If youve never been a family caregiver, it is difficult to imagine the stress, exhaustion, isolation and grief that one experiences, McDonald told House lawmakers who serve on the Committee on Health and Human Services. As access to services outside the home becomes less accessible, the pressure on the caregiver increases. Nurses need to be allowed to fill in the gaps, to let people age in place with dignity.

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The Rhode Island Developmental Disabilities Council, the Rhode Island Nurses Association, AARP and a host of local senior services agencies backed Boylans bill, too.

Many were surprised to learn that home foot care nurses werent already allowed.

Everybody seemed genuinely unaware of this gap in services, said Carol Anne Costa, executive director for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island.

Everybody seemed genuinely unaware of this gap in services.

 Carol Anne Costa, executive director for the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island.

Costa expects the gap will widen as Rhode Islands senior population swells and its residents look to live out their final years at home.

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As a rule, we have been very successful in enabling older adults to age in place, Costa said. With that success naturally comes the need for more services to sustain them in their homes.

Podiatrists push back

Representatives from the American Podiatric Medical Association and the Rhode Island Podiatric Medical Association wrote to lawmakers with concerns over the health and safety implications of letting nurses provide home care to patients whose age or other diagnoses  like diabetes  make even routine trimmings more risky.

While routine foot care sounds nice, more often than not, it is not routine and it is more than foot care, Dr. Sarah Cathcart, vice president of the Rhode Island Podiatric Medical Association, told lawmakers during the March 27 committee hearing.

Cathcart works at South County Foot and Ankle in Warwick, and said she, and most other podiatrists, make house calls outside of regular office hours.

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But, Cathcart acknowledged when questioned by lawmakers, home visits are usually to existing patients  not new ones.

And federal Medicare rules require that any patients receiving care at home from a podiatrist first secure a medical necessity determination from a primary care provider.

I have to protect my license and my practice, Dr. Michael Reuter, a podiatrist with Brown University Health in East Providence, told lawmakers during the committee hearing.

The Rhode Island Podiatric Medical Association and its members did not respond to follow-up inquiries.

McDonald doesnt take insurance, and therefore doesnt need any paperwork to make a house call. She charges $100 per visit, seeing 30 to 40 people weekly. Podiatrists told lawmakers they treat a couple people at home per week, or less.

Seeking to assuage podiatric concerns, Boylan changed her bill between its initial committee hearing and approval on the House floor, adding more specific requirements to the training and scope of services that qualifying nurses could provide. She also moved the proposal from the state law governing podiatrists to the section on nursing, modeling the language after the advisory rules set by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing.

The health department did not take a position on Boylans bill.

We would only take a position if something in a piece of legislation represented a health or safety concern, or if we believed that our support for a bill would clarify its benefits for legislators and the public, Joseph Wendelken, a spokesperson for the health department, said in an emailed response.

Claudia Dunagan never found someone else to trim Hazels toenails after McDonald was ordered to stop coming. Her last view of Hazel after she died was of her feet, the long, curling toenails peeking out from beneath the blanket covering her mothers body.

When I saw her feet, that was the one relief I had that she died then, because there was no one to care for them, Dunagan said.

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A court hearing for jailed Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai was postponed on Thursday due to bad weather, further lengthening a national security trial that began in 2023.

The city's weather observatory hoisted the highest-level rainstorm warning for around three hours on Thursday morning, leading the judiciary to cancel hearings for the day.

The 77-year-old founder of the Apple Daily newspaper is charged with foreign collusion under Hong Kong's national security law, which Beijing imposed following huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in 2019.

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On Thursday lawyers were expected to present closing arguments as Lai's trial enters its final stages.

The judiciary said Thursday that those due to attend postponed hearings should return on Friday.

The media tycoon has been kept behind bars since December 2020, reportedly in solitary confinement, with Western nations and rights groups calling for his release.

Aside from the collusion offence -- which could land him in prison for life -- Lai is also charged with "seditious publication" related to 161 op-eds he allegedly wrote.

The tycoon gave spirited courtroom testimony over more than 50 days during the trial, fielding questions about his political ideology, management style and overseas contacts.

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Lai described himself at least twice as a "political prisoner", which drew sharp rebukes from the three-judge panel.

Hong Kong authorities have repeatedly rejected criticism related to Lai, saying last month that his case was "handled strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law".

Antoine Bernard of Reporters Without Borders said on Tuesday that Lai's treatment "exposes the authorities' ruthless determination to silence and suppress one of the most prominent advocates for press freedom amid Hong Kong's rapidly deteriorating media landscape".

Judges had previously indicated that a verdict could be reached by October.

Thursday was the fifth time this year that Hong Kong issued the "black" rainstorm warning, beating the previous record of three such warnings in a year.

hol/reb/tc
Eleven alleged members of a street gang based in Los Angeles are facing federal racketeering and other charges for their roles in a suspected prostitution and sex-trafficking ring.

Members of the Hoover Criminal Gang are accused of forcing girls and women into prostitution on the Figueroa Corridor of Los Angeles, resulting in a 31-count federal indictment, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a news release.

Amaya Armstead, aka Lady Duck, is a leader of a set of the Hoover Criminal Gang, said the DOJ, which provided this undated image.

All 11 people listed below face a count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, otherwise known as RICO:

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Amaya Armstead, 25, aka Lady Duck, of South Los Angeles Armstead is the cases lead defendant and the de facto leader of the 112 set of the Hoover Criminal Gang. She is accused of sex trafficking a 14-year-old girl.

Kenyondre Young, 22, aka Yunkg Poke, of South Los Angeles

Naziz Harris, 19, aka N4, of South Los Angeles

Avery Amoako, 27, aka Handz, of Long Beach

Jared Evans, 29, aka Jmoney, of the Mid-City area of Los Angeles

Mathew Brooks, 22, aka Vermont Star, of Riverside

Derail Robinson, 22, aka Popkorn, of South Los Angeles

Jalon Phillips, 22, aka Chop Em, of South Los Angeles

Bryan Isrel, 31, aka 4Loc, of South Los Angeles

Tejohn Gray, 25, aka Tiny3, of South Los Angeles

Tommy Crockham, 30, aka Tommy Gunz, of South Los Angeles

The indictment also includes allegations of various other crimes, including:

Sex trafficking of minors

Sex trafficking through force, fraud or coercion

Transportation of a minor for sex trafficking

Sexual exploitation of a child

Drug trafficking conspiracy

Money laundering to promote specified unlawful activity

Conspiracy to straw purchase firearms

Some of those sex trafficking victims were runaways or in the foster care system, and they were recruited through social media, then branded with tattoos of gang members names.

An alleged victim of Lady Duck was tattooed with the purported gang leaders nickname, as shown in this undated photo provided by the DOJ.

The exploitation of vulnerable women and children through sex trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes our society faces, said Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell. The victims in this case  many of them minors, runaways, or from the foster care system  were preyed upon by individuals who sought to profit from their pain.

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Despite false promises of a luxurious lifestyle, the women and girls were instead plied  with drugs ranging from oxycodone to amphetamines, threatened with violence and pimped out.

One girl was as young as 14 years old, prosecutors said.

Victims were required to remit all proceeds from commercial sex dates to the pimp, the DOJ said. A victim who refused or who otherwise disobeyed a pimp faced discipline, including assaults, berating, public humiliation, and withholding of affection, drugs or food. Victims also were branded with tattoos of a defendants moniker.

Human trafficking is among the most heinous crimes perpetuated throughout the world, said Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. No human should be for sale  not here in Los Angeles or anywhere in our society.

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Amoako, Evans, Brooks, Phillips and Crockham were arrested Wednesday morning.

Armstead was transferred from state custody to federal custody, and investigators are still looking for Isrel.

If convicted of all counts, some of the defendants face a minimum of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Among the finalists for Kentuckys I Voted sticker contests are some local students.

Jaidin Adkins and Rylan Bowman from Hopkins County are on the list of finalists. Votes can be cast for your favorite sticker at the Secretary of States office booth at the Kentucky State Fair from August 14 to August 24. The top design will be printed on stickers and given to voters during the May 2026 primary election.

You can find a full list of sticker designs here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Horizon Police arrested three people for driving while intoxicated over the weekend.

All three cases rose above simple DWI arrests.

A woman was arrested and is facing a DWI charge after she allegedly drove through a closed lane in a construction zone, Horizon Police said.

Kevin Alonso Ortiz

Armando Regalado

Veronica Campbell

Horizon Police say they arrested Veronica Campbell, 43, in the early morning hours of Sunday, Aug. 10 after she drove through a closed lane in a work zone on South Darrington Road.

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Campbell showed signs of intoxication, failed field sobriety tests and later provided a breath sample over the legal limit, Horizon Police said.

She was arrested and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility for DWI. Bond was set at $10,000.

In another incident, a man was arrested by Horizon police and is facing a DWI charge and a charge of drug possesion.

Just before 2 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, Horizon Police officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation along the 14600 block of Horizon Boulevard.

The driver, Armando Regalado, 24, showed signs of intoxication and agreed to perform field sobriety tests, which indicated impairment, police said.

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During the investigation, officers found an open container of alcohol and a THC vape pen. Regalado later provided a breath sample over the legal limit.

The vape pen tested positive for THC with a weight of less than one gram, Horizon Police said.

Regalado was arrested and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility for driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration of more than .15, nearly twice the legal limit, and possession of a controlled substance of less than a gram.

His total bond was set at $3,000.

In the third case, Horizon Police arrested a man after receiving reports of a vehicle with heavy damage traveling on flat tires. The vehicle was suspected of being involved in multiple crashes on Saturday, Aug. 10.

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Officers located the vehicle along Eastlake Boulevard and did a traffic stop on the 500 block of Desert Mist.

The driver, identified as Kevin Alonso Ortiz, 29, of Arizona, displayed multiple signs of being intoxicated, police said.

While conducting the investigation, officers also found a pistol in the area of the vehicle that was accessible by the driver, police said.

Ortiz was arrested and booked into El Paso County Detention Facility. He is facing a charge of DWI with a blood alcohol concentration of more than .15 and unlawful carrying of a weapon.

His total bond was set at $27,000.

The Horizon City Police Department reminds everyone that impaired driving and illegal drug possession put lives at risk. If you see a suspected impaired driver, call 911 immediately, the police department said in a news release.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  At the time Camisha McGaskey was allegedly beating 11-year-old Akyri Bell and other minors inside a Carolina Forest home, multiple people stood by and did nothing  sometimes as their own children watched, newly released arrest warrants show.

McGaskey, who is charged with murder in Bells death along with multiple felonies, including human trafficking, used her hands and feet along with other weapons to beat her and the other children, the documents show.

11-year-old Horry County girls death prompted authorities human-trafficking investigation, solicitor says

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Bell died June 13 at a Carolina Forest hospital of head injuries after being taken from a Sago Palm Drive home, authorities said. Police initially arrested 31-year-old McGaskey, the girls guardian and a distant cousin, with obstruction of justice, before upgrading the charge to murder.

The Horry County Coroners Office on June 17 said Bell died of blunt force trauma and labeled her death a homicide.

Warrants issued in June said authorities found physical evidence to include mops, towels, and bedding were located in trash bags inside of the home by HCPD Crime Scene Investigators that did test presumptively positive for blood.

The warrants released to News13 on Wednesday indicate McGaskey delivered the beatings that also included a 15-year-old boy between Jan. 1 and June 11. Her 12-year-old child was among several children, including a 3-year-old and a 14-year-old, who were in the home when some of the beatings took place.

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News13 in June spoke to McGaskey shortly after Bells death, who claimed racial profiling led to her arrest.

I feel like they see the color of our skin and immediately we did something to the little girl, she said. And it was disgusting.

Bell lived in the Sago Drive home with seven other siblings, and McGaskey said she had a history of fainting spells.

I sent her upstairs to take a bath with her sister, McGaskey said. Like 20 minutes later, her sister called and said she passed out. I went up there to provide aid for her, and as soon as I found out that she was unconscious, I dialed 911, I called the police.

Photo: Horry County Police Department

The following people have been charged with unlawful conduct toward a child in connection with Bells death for allegedly being present for the beatings and failing to report them to authorities, the warrants say:

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Lakesha Burnett, 34, (two counts)

Alantis Thomas, 21, (two counts)

Darnell Dearmas, 20, (one count)

Margaret Roberson, 56, (three counts)

Camisha McGaskey, 31, (three counts)

Police said Tuesday a sixth person, who has not been identified, is expected to face the same charges. McGaskey and Roberson remain in custody at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center after also being charged by SLED with five counts of trafficking in persons.

Photo: Horry County Police Department

Burnett, Dearmas, Roberson and Thomas failed to take reasonable steps to intervene, prevent further injury or report the abuse to the appropriate authorities, warrants say. Their willful inaction placed the child at an ongoing and unreasonable risk of harm and contributed to the circumstances that led to a homicide.

Earlier arrest warrants accuse Burnett, Thomas and Roberson of obstructing justice when they prevented, impeded, or interfered a law enforcement investigation by providing known false statements and attempting to obscure and destroy evidence related to the death of a juvenile victim.

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Horry County Police Chief Kris Leonhardt, addressed the case in a statement after McGaskeys arrest in June.

The death of a child is a tragedy. AKyri was just 11 years old, and she deserved the same opportunities as all children  to live, learn, and grow  and that was cut short at the hands of others, Leonhardt said. Im proud of the hard work our officers and detectives have put into this case, and will be watching with interest as this progresses through the courts.

* * *

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.

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* * *

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.

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HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  Horry County Schools will provide free meals at all its schools this year, despite the federal governments plan to make cuts that would affect that program.

Kim Johnson, the districts director of Nutrition Services, said students whose families get SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid help HCS qualify for free meals through the Community Eligibility Provision.

Parents do not need to fill out an application for this. Instead, HCS uses a program that follows USDA guidelines and figures out which students qualify for free meals based on their parents monthly income.

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This school year, all 55 schools in the district will serve a free, well-balanced breakfast and lunch every day.

Its a great benefit for our families, for their students, to receive free breakfast and free lunch throughout the whole year, Johnson said. Its definitely economical savings for the families. So, were very happy to be able to provide that program for all our students.

However, things may be different next year.

If the federal government goes through with its plan to make cuts to Medicaid in its next budget, students who get free school meals through Medicaid may no longer be eligible.

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Additionally, if less students qualify, the district may need to cut how many schools serve the free meals.

We have some pockets in Horry County that are more affluent than others, Johnson said. In those schools, when theyre making regulations like this, it may affect them. So, were hoping well still have a lot of areas that will still fall within the guidelines of a CEP.

Horry County Schools has offered the free meals for three years and should be eligible for two more.

The district will reapply for the program in April 2026 and see how many students still qualify for the meals.

* * *

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.

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A hospital where A&E patients were left waiting in chairs for 22 hours has been downgraded by inspectors.

Northampton General Hospital's Care Quality Commission (CQC) grading has been changed from good to requires improvement following the surprise inspection in February, which found three breaches of legal regulations in relation to safe care and treatment, safe staffing and governance.

The health watchdog issued the hospital with a warning notice because of overcrowding in the emergency department and poor flow of patients through different stages of treatment.

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The hospital has apologised to patients and says it has "undertaken significant work" to address the concerns since the inspection.

CQC inspectors who visited the emergency department found "widespread care... in ambulances, waiting rooms and corridors".

They recorded that, on the afternoon of 19 February 2025, the department had almost double its capacity of patients and the longest wait for a bed was 46 hours.

The CQC said: "Patients were waiting on chairs for over 22 hours, including elderly patients."

The emergency department was operating at almost double capacity during the inspection [BBC]

Alarms were sounding to indicate that some people were deteriorating but there were no resuscitation beds for them.

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One patient who was identified as being at risk of pressure sores, and had been in the department for 25 hours, had been given no mitigation measures.

When inspectors spoke to patients in medical wards, they were told there was no privacy because extra beds had been brought into the bays.

The CQC said patients were not always being discharged at the point when they no longer needed medical treatment as in-patients.

Patients were staying for an average of 16.6 days, which was significantly higher than the England average of 11.7 days.

Patients were staying almost five days longer in hospital than the national average [BBC]

The inspectors said they had observed a clinical emergency in an area where additional beds had been placed in bays.

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The "space for additional staff and equipment was compromised but staff ensured this did not compromise... the treatment", their report said.

Inspectors also found there were instances where medication given to patients was not accurately recorded.

Leaders at the hospital did not always "work with staff when incidents happen to identify what went wrong", the report said.

Breaches of regulations were found in safety of treatment, staffing and management.

But inspectors did find leaders and staff worked closely together to deliver care and staff understood their responsibilities for safeguarding and protecting people from harm.

Hemant Nemade from the hospital has apologised for not providing the level of care "our communities need" [BBC]

The medical director of University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, Hemant Nemade, said: "We are truly sorry that we have not provided the level of care that our communities need and deserve.

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"Since the inspection was carried out in February 2025, we have undertaken significant work to address the CQC's concerns.

"Many new processes are now in place to improve and monitor safety and care, enhance privacy and dignity and improve how we support patients."

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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Scaled down plans for a long-awaited hospital development are due to be revealed.

Proposals for a 22m new hospital with more than 30 beds on the site of the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Rhyl, Denbighshire, were approved in 2013.

But by 2018 the estimated costs had doubled. Plans were then halted by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Betsi Cadwaladr health board said spiralling costs meant the original proposal was no longer affordable.

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The Welsh Conservatives said revised plans could mean half the original number of beds, which would not ease pressures on emergency departments elsewhere.

The health board has been asked to comment.

In 2013, Mark Drakeford, the then health minister, approved initial proposals to develop a new hospital on the site of the Royal Alexandra - which was built in the 1890s.

The integrated community hospital scheme was supposed to be completed in 2016.

It would include dental clinics, 30 in-patient beds and 18 in-patient beds for older people with mental health problems, as well as an x-ray department, ultrasound facilities and a pharmacy.

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Twelve years on, the site is still awaiting development.

The health board has said it intends to submit revised plans by the end of the month. The plans are expected to be scaled down from the original proposals.

Christine Gardiner says the hospital in Rhyl would be "more handy for local people" [BBC]

Local resident Christine Gardiner said: "I just think it should be used in conjunction with Glan Clwyd at Bodelwyddan, because the waiting times there are terrible, the parking's shocking, and it would be more handy for local people."

Laura Everett, 41, said the Royal Alexandra was "extremely important, especially with the health system as it is at the moment".

"I feel like the more local places we have... the better," she said.

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"I feel like it could be used a lot more to lessen the load off the actual main hospitals. We need it. It's vital."

Lifelong Rhyl resident Michael Jones said: "It is frustrating. You don't know what's happening with the place.

"You hear all these stories, the changes, the improvements, but nothing seems to be happening at the moment. We need to know what's going on."

Darren Millar believes the area needs more than the original planned 30 beds [BBC]

Darren Millar, Member of the Senedd for Clwyd West, said residents in Rhyl and surrounding areas were "fed up waiting" for the site to be developed, and believed the new proposal may be for 14 beds.

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"We're expecting the announcement to say that there's going to be far fewer beds at the hospital than was originally anticipated, possibly fewer than half of the beds... and that means that we're not going to take the pressure of Glan Clwyd Hospital down the road, where we know that the problems have got even worse over the past 12 years," he said.

He added that it was "not good enough" and it would be "too late".

"What we need is to get back to those original plans and make sure that those promises to the people of north Wales are actually delivered."

Mr Millar said any proposals short of the original plans "would show yet again the massive north-south divide and the fact that north Wales is being short-changed".

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He added the original 30 beds would help ease pressures elsewhere in the NHS, but "14 beds isn't a spittle in the bucket".

"If anything, we need that original 30 beds to be increased, not decreased."

The health board has been asked to comment. On its website, it said it hoped to submit plans, which will include a bedded unit and a minor injuries and ailments unit, by the end of this month.

Those plans would need approval by the health board itself, and then the Welsh government would be asked for approval and funding.

The Welsh government said it was awaiting a revised business case to be submitted.

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Plaid Cymru's health spokesperson Mabon ap Gwynfor said: "The need for a new Royal Alex [Alexandra] is plain for all to see and would help patients across the region, yet this government has twiddled its thumbs for far too long with patients suffering as a consequence."
HAZELTON, W.Va. (WBOY)  A union leader at Federal Corrections Institution (FCI) Hazelton in Preston County has informed 12 News that recent hospitalizations of the institutions employees are merely precautionary as the prison investigates a single possible exposure to a dangerous drug.

Justin Tarovisky, the President of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 420, a union that represents correctional officers at Hazelton, told 12 News that after carfentanil was discovered in Hazeltons Secure Female Facility (SFF) on Saturday, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) locked the unit down and began searching it for drugs.

2 people killed in vehicle rollover in Elkins

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Tarovisky said that while investigating, the prison found drugs in five different areas of the facility and began to test any correctional officer who came in contact with them as a precaution. He added that there has been no new widespread discovery of carfentanil in the prison.

Its worth noting that carfentanil is not the same as fentanyl. According to the DEA, carfentanil is a synthetic opioid originally developed for veterinary use as a tranquilizer for elephants and other large mammals. It is also estimated to be 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times stronger than fentanyl.

This information comes after multiple reports this week of further hospitalizations of individuals at the prison. 12 News reached out to the BOP about these reports and was told that a total of seven employees at the prisontwo on Tuesday and five on Wednesdaywere taken to a local hospital for possible exposures to unknown substances. The BOP specified that the five people tested on Wednesday were subsequently released.

This is a developing story. Stick with 12 News for updates.

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The lawsuit accuses ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan of turning the court into "a branch office of the terrorist organization," Hamas.

The families of three hostages currently being held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas have filed a lawsuit for NIS 20 million against International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, Israeli NGO Shurat Hadin, representing the families of Avinatan Or, Eitan Mor, and Omri Miran, announced on Wednesday.

Their lawsuit accuses Khan of turning the court into a branch office of the terrorist organization Hamas.

It demands that Khan be investigated for acting against Israel for ulterior motives  namely to sideline alleged sexual abuse allegations against him.

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Khan not only slandered the State of Israel and presented false representations to the plaintiffs, but also provided services to terrorist organizations and assisted them, reads the lawsuit.

The lawsuit notes that it took him eight months to issue the warrants.

It adds that when Khan finally requested arrest warrants for the three chief Hamas leaders  Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh  he coupled them with warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. (All three Hamas heads were killed by Israel, over the past two years.)

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT Prosecutor Karim Khan rewards Islamic terrorism, the writer charges. (credit: Leonardo Fernandez Viloria/Reuters)

The lawsuit further notes that warrants were not issued against leaders of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which also held hostages captive, or against other Hamas leaders.

Shurat HaDin chief: The ICC has become a branch of Hamas

The blood libels the defendant wove against the State of Israel and its leaders, by creating a false moral equivalence between the State of Israel  the victim  and the terrorists who hold the hostages and abuse them daily, granted legitimacy to the terrorists to continue extorting Israel while holding and abusing the hostages, the lawsuit says about Khan.

Shurat HaDin founder and president Nitsana Darshan-Leitner said, The International Criminal Court has become a branch of Hamas. Through his direct actions, he gave an enormous tailwind to the terrorist murderers.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A hotel with a colorful past in downtown Memphis has been reborn as a new boutique hotel and a basement bar.

The Hotel Pontotoc and The Dame Bar opened Monday. The 1906 building feels like its a secret, but this place has more than a century of stories to tell.

For a time, the original hotel was a bordello  allegedly. Elvis Presley lost his virginity in an upstairs room in 1953  supposedly. And it has a resident ghost who died in a fire  so the story goes.

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The new Hotel Pontotoc was supposed to open in 2022, but took a little longer than anticipated. The renovation cost was around $3 million, general manager Norbert Mede said.

Mede was most recently involved in the development of The Louis Hotel in Wilson, Arkansas.

Up top at the hotel are 10 custom-decorated rooms with kitchenettes, bars, radios, and updated bathrooms. Sitting areas include the guts of an old organ and a pinball machine that were original to the hotel.

Downstairs is The Dame, a cocktail bar that feels like a dark speakeasy, although no password is required.

Old newspaper clippings displayed on the walls of The Dame recount police raids and a suicide at the old hotel. A 1908 help-wanted ad seeks neat-looking sales ladies who could make $3 a day if they were good talkers.

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Some of the buildings history is more recent. It was a private family residence beginning in the 1980s.

Back in the day, when this wasnt a hotel, it was a private residence, the owners had these, what they called, epic Halloween parties, Mede said.

Mede also recounted the story of the buildings ghost. Back in the 1950s, he says a caretaker, or maybe a guest, died in a fire here in the 1950s. But he died trying to get others out alive, and remains as a benevolent presence.

 The Hotel Pontotoc is located at 69 E. Pontotoc between Front Street and Main Street. The Dame opened Monday.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The Brief

A 16-year-old was struck by a vehicle and shot on Oats Street in Houston.

Police are asking for the public's help to identify a white Chevrolet SUV.

The vehicle's license plate number and other identifying details are unknown.

HOUSTON - Houston Police Department officers are asking for your help identifying the owner of an SUV in connection to the shooting of a teen.

Oats Street Shooting

What we know

The incident happened in the 4900 block of Oats Street on July 30.

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According to Houston PD, the white SUV shown in the video above struck the teen, after which the 16-year-old victim was shot.

The incident reportedly happened after an argument.

The SUV appears to be a white Chevrolet.

What we don't know

No other identifying information, including a license plate number, was provided for the SUV.

What you can do

Anyone with information related to the fatal incident is urged to reach out to the Houston Police Department.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated the teen's status. The teen remains hospitalized.

The Source

The Houston Police Department contributed the information in this article.
Human rights groups have criticized the suspension of so-called federal admission programmes in Germany, which for now means no new visas will be issued to regime opponents from Russia or Belarus.

Irina Scherbakowa, founder of the Russian human rights group Memorial, called the decision "absolutely inexplicable" and said it targets political emigrants, according to remarks published by the RND media group on Wednesday.

Marco Fieber, head of Libereco, which supports people seeking protection from Belarus, said the suspension also "endangers lives in Belarus." He said many people there face long-term imprisonment and those admitted to Germany could avoid this fate.

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The German Interior Ministry told RND that since May 2022, 2,490 Russian nationals and since March 2021, another 410 Belarusians had been admitted under paragraph 22 of the Residence Act.

A ministry spokesman cited the coalition agreement between the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU), their Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the centre-left Social Democrats (SDP)to phase out voluntary federal admission programmes as far as possible and said the implementation was under review.

Until a decision is made, all related procedures have been "generally suspended to safeguard Germany's political interests," the spokesman said, which also affects Russian and Belarusian applicants.

The debate over ending federal admission programmes had previously focused mainly on stopping entry permits for people from Afghanistan.
The State Department on Tuesday released a long-awaited series of reports on worldwide human rights practices that reveal scaled-back criticism of select countries including El Salvador and harsher assessments of traditional U.S. allies, including the United Kingdom and Germany.

The release follows a period of revisions that administration officials said were meant to "streamline" the reports, which cover events in about 200 countries in 2024 and had been largely completed by the end of the Biden administration. A note included with the reports said they had been "adjusted" to be "aligned to the administration's executive orders."

The 2024 reports omit references to LGBTQ discrimination issues and significantly pare back treatments of issues including gender-based violence and government corruption. They no longer include sections dedicated to systemic racial or ethnic discrimination or violence, or to child abuse or child sexual exploitation, among other deletions.

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Mandated by Congress, the reports have been produced annually by the State Department for decades and are used by U.S. policymakers, human rights workers, foreign governments and judicial bodies worldwide as a resource to inform potential arms sales and court proceedings, and they also function as a U.S.-led check on government corruption and abuses.

Rights groups and former State Department officials decried the revisions as an "erasure" of the plight of marginalized communities and what they said was a politically motivated move that undermined the prior value of the reports.

"I think the signals are quite loud and quite clear of who they value and who they don't," said Desiree Cormier Smith, former special representative for racial equity and justice, now with the Alliance for Diplomacy and Justice.

In the case of El Salvador, which ended presidential term limits in early August and has an agreement with the Trump administration to accept and detain undocumented immigrants from the U.S., the report notes "There were no credible reports of significant human rights abuses" and that the government had taken "credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses."

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The 2023 report made note of El Salvador's overcrowded prisons and reports of "arbitrary killings; enforced disappearance; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by security forces; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; arbitrary arrest or detention," and more.

This year's report for Hungary notes "no credible reports of significant human rights abuses" though last year's included extensive mention of "serious government corruption" and restrictions on media freedom.

Meanwhile the 2024 report for the United Kingdom notes the "human rights situation worsened," citing "credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression, including enforcement of or threat of criminal or civil laws in order to limit expression; and crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism." A similar assessment was offered for Germany and France, countries administration officials including Vice President JD Vance have publicly accused of censorship and the suppression of free speech.

Asked by a reporter how the Trump administration squares its stricter monitoring of free expression via social media accounts of U.S. visa applicants with its criticism of European countries restricting hate speech, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a press briefing Tuesday that "restrictive laws against dis-favored voices, often on political or religious grounds  no matter how disagreeable someone's speech may be  to criminalize it, or silencing it by force only serves as a catalyst for further hatred, suppression, and polarization."

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The 2024 report for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza does not include a death toll for Israelis or Palestinians since the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, a figure that was included in 2023.

The report acknowledged a Committee to Protect Journalists figure of 82 Palestinian journalists having been killed in the conflict last year, but also included a line saying that "[i]n some cases, the IDF claimed the journalists killed were embedded with Hamas terrorists."

The report did acknowledge troubling human rights records in several countries with which it has struck agreements to deport third national nationals, such as Libya. It noted credible reports of "arbitrary or unlawful killings; disappearances; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; arbitrary arrest and detention" and other abuses.

It also noted of Afghanistan that there was "widespread disregard for the rule of law and official impunity for those responsible for human rights abuses." The U.S. terminated temporary protected status for Afghans last month, leaving more than 12,000 vulnerable to deportation.

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Reports for Russia, China, North Korea and Iran noted this year, as they did in previous years, "significant" human rights issues and included criticism of inaction by their respective governments to identify or punish those who had committed abuses.

"The 2024 human rights report has been restructured in a way that removes redundancies, increases report readability and is more responsive to the legislative mandates that underpin the report," a senior State Department official said in a briefing last week. "U.S. policy on promoting respect for human rights around the globe, or in any particular country, has not changed."

President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Trump says he's placing D.C. police under federal control, deploying National Guard

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
A federal appeals court Wednesday rejected a bid by humanitarian groups to challenge the Trump administrations freeze on foreign aid grants.

The ruling overturned a district judges injunction that had directed the administration to restore the flow of the grants.

In the split decision , a three-judge panel of the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals didnt consider the merits of the aid groups arguments that President Donald Trump illegally impounded congressionally appropriated funding. The majority instead vacated the injunction on procedural grounds. It found that the grantees couldnt bring a constitutional claim that hinged on an alleged violation of law.

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Under federal law, only the U.S. comptroller general can challenge an impoundment of funds by the president, Judge Karen Henderson, a George H.W. Bush appointee, wrote in the majority opinion. The comptroller general leads the Government Accountability Office, which is housed in the legislative branch and monitors the way the federal government spends congressional appropriations.

Comptrollers general are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. They serve for 15-year terms and cannot be reappointed. The current comptroller general is Gene Dodaro, who was nominated by Barack Obama in 2010, and his term expires later this year.

The Impoundment Control Act, Henderson wrote, outlines a notification process between the GAO and lawmakers that must be carried out before the comptroller general can sue the president over an alleged impoundment.

It does not make sense that the Congress would craft a complex scheme of interbranch dialogue but sub silentio also provide a backdoor for citizen suits at any time and without notice to the Congress of the alleged violation, Henderson wrote.

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Supreme Court precedent has rejected the idea that a plaintiff may transform a statutory claim into a constitutional one to avoid limits on judicial review, she wrote.

An official with the Global Health Council, the lawsuits lead plaintiff, called the ruling "very disappointing."

Global Health Council will continue our efforts to protect the global health sector and the critical work being done around the world," President and CEO Elisha Dunn-Georgiou said. "We are committed to standing alongside our fellow plaintiffs in this case and advocating for a resolution that ensures the continued impact of our collective work.

Trump officials applauded the ruling on social media.

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Radical left-wing groups have been abusing the court system in an attempt to seize control of U.S. foreign policy from the President, the Office of Management and Budget posted on X . Today's decision puts a stop to that, affirming the President's ability to spend responsibly to enact his America First agenda.

Judge Florence Pan, a Biden appointee, rejected the majoritys conclusion in her dissent, claiming her colleagues compensate for the governments litigation missteps by  reframing the case.

The majority holds that when the President refuses to spend funds appropriated by Congress based on policy disagreements, that is merely a statutory violation and raises no constitutional alarm bells, Pan wrote in her lengthy dissent.

Their opinion, she wrote, "misconstrues the separation-of-powers claim brought by the grantees, misapplies precedent, and allows Executive Branch officials to evade judicial review of constitutionally impermissible actions."

Whats next: The case goes back to the district court for further proceedings that account for the appellate judges opinion.

Kyle Cheney contributed to this report.
The shocking thing, in hindsight, was how motherly Rachel Goodman appeared. Small, with dark hair and a beret, Goodman arrived at Louise Woollams house in Dorset in November 2023 as a private carer. Woollam, 61, exhausted, grieving, was struggling to care for her 76-year-old husband Richard, whose Alzheimers had hollowed out the man he once was  a proud RAF veteran with 16 years of service.

Goodman came with all the right paperwork: a clean Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate, carers insurance, a driving licence which meant she could ferry Richard to appointments. She looked like a really lovely, homely mum type, Woollam says. Id had a tough time, and she stood in my kitchen, arms around me, crying with me when I was upset.

But soon, household items began to go missing. Nothing vital, but irritating nevertheless. A brand new bottle of fabric conditioner, a new pot of face cream. Three packs of butter disappeared within 48 hours. I started to feel uncomfortable, but I couldnt risk losing the care I so desperately needed for Richard, Woollam says.

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Two months later, in January 2024, Woollam woke up with an inexplicable feeling of unease, and suddenly thought of her jewellery. When she checked the cabinet, she saw her family jewellery collection had vanished. Her mothers engagement ring, her grandfathers Victorian heart-shaped cravat pin, a pair of silver earrings given to her by Richard; they were all missing from their boxes.

Frozen in fear, Louise knew there was only one person who could have taken these items. Fingers trembling, she googled Rachel Goodmans name  and was horrified to discover that Goodman was a convicted criminal with 13 prior offences, including fraud against another elderly person.

I felt physically sick thinking of this woman performing very personal care on my husband, and then rifling through my bedside drawers and taking my jewellery, Woollam says. I cant believe anybody would stoop that low. She knew what Alzheimers had taken from us, the devastating loss of my husband, but she still felt it was all right to steal from us.

Louise Woollam is now campaigning for better regulation in Englands private care sector - Heathcliff O'Malle

Goodman was found guilty of theft in July, and handed a 12-month suspended sentence by Weymouth magistrates. Yet she remains free to work as a carer in England. This is not a clerical error  it is a consequence of a legislative gap that successive governments have failed to close. Unlike Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, England does not require private carers to be professionally registered or regulated, or subjected to enhanced DBS checks when working in someones home. She could be doing it again today, for all we know, Woollam says.

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Goodman had a standard DBS check, but Woollam believes only an enhanced DBS check would have revealed her criminal history. Sometimes robbery and burglary will show up on the DBS, but not theft, explains Woollam. I didnt know about enhanced DBS checks. I didnt think there was anything else. I thought a DBS check would show me if someone had a criminal record, and it didnt; it didnt protect me.

The legislation is non-existent when it comes to robust scrutiny measures for private carers in England. There are currently no Disclosure and Barring Service check or other pre-employment check requirements for private carers, Gillian Keegan, the then secretary of state for health and social care, confirmed in a written question in Parliament in 2022. We have no plans to bring forward requirements or regulations for private carers. But by contrast, the Scottish government has imposed statutory regulation, and requires private carers to undergo disclosure checks before they begin work.

Englands ageing population is rising rapidly, and so is the demand for care. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports there were 12.7 million people over 65 in 2022  nearly 19 per cent of the population. By 2072, this figure could rise to 27 per cent, or 22 million people. Currently, there are around 982,000 people with dementia in the UK, a number expected to reach 1.4 million by 2040, according to Alzheimers Society.

Yet the infrastructure designed to protect and support the elderly appears increasingly threadbare. Around 1.59 million people work in adult social care in England, mostly employed by some 18,500 private providers. In 2022/23, 78 per cent of adult social care staff worked for independent sector employers, eight per cent were employed by direct payment recipients, seven per cent worked for local authorities, and another seven per cent were in the NHS. Yet support across the country still remains minimal.

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Nearly a third of requests for social care support are unmet by local authorities, according to The Kings Fund, which attributes this to local authority budget cuts, meaning funding has failed to keep pace with demographic pressures. With such gaps, many people are forced to find a private carer through social media groups. It leaves the door wide open for abuse by individuals like Goodman, who advertised herself as self-employed on Facebook.

Former social worker Christine McConkey, 65, who retired in March after 15 years in the field, says she saw incidents like these take place two or three times a year. Its particularly common with people living with dementia, she says. Often theyd be living alone and families werent there to monitor 100 per cent of the time. A lot of carers are on very low wages and from deprived backgrounds, or from abroad. Thats no excuse. But the opportunity was there.

McConkey warns that rising immigration compounds pressures on an already fragile system. ONS figures suggest that population growth will soon be driven almost entirely by migrants, with nearly 10 million arrivals expected, five million of whom are already here.

People that are immigrants can come in and quite easily care because the care agencies are just so desperate, she says. Their training is very minimal. There are some very good agencies out there but generally, the minimum training carers will get is a basic moving and handling course, which they probably do online, maybe food hygiene and basic medication.

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She recalls one incident in which a live-in carer, who was an immigrant from Nigeria, allowed her boyfriend, who was also a Nigerian immigrant, to move into the house without informing the family. The client  a young man with a brain injury  was unable to communicate. Neighbours eventually reported unusual activity. When social workers arrived, they found the boyfriend hiding in the wardrobe.

The Care Quality Commission, who are the inspectors of all these agencies, are overwhelmed with the monitoring and regulatory work they need to complete, says McConkey. I dont think they can cope with all the regulations, to be honest.

Across the country, reports continue to emerge of carers taking advantage of vulnerable older people. In August 2023, Lynsey Johnston, a carer from Gateshead who had stolen from a vulnerable pensioner, was jailed. Seeing my mother so upset, saying she was a fool to trust Johnston, was very hard, the victims son said in court. She was not a fool, she should have been able to trust her.

More recently, in June this year, Sheffield Crown Court heard that 28-year-old Chloe Haigh had stolen almost 6,400 from an 85-year-old woman to buy takeaways, go shopping and pay her utility bills. It has made us question everyone, the womans daughter told reporters at the time.

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Those running care agencies also say the sector desperately needs reform. Liz Blacklock, director of Lapis Care and chief executive of the National Association of Care and Support Workers, emphasises that there is no suggestion that all carers are criminals but says that when hiring a carer, You need to know that theyve got no criminal record.

At the moment, the only thing we have to go on is the DBS, she says. Someone can have a DBS, but if there are any issues going on in the background, it wont necessarily show up. Secondly, you could have a DBS certificate printed and the following day you could go out and commit some atrocity, and nobody would know.

As we face up to the ageing crisis, Blacklock suggests that the answer for our nation lies in making a proper career path out of caring, and paying carers an increased wage. We need to start paying carers at a respectable professional salary that recognises the responsibilities they take, she says. They should be called care professionals, attracting people who want a genuine career. Currently, carers earn the national living wage, or 12.21 per hour. But Blacklock suggests 15 per hour would help make it a respected profession.

0410 Estimated spending need on adult social care

Meanwhile, Louise Woollam is now campaigning for better regulation in Englands private care sector. With the support of her local MP, Simon Hoare, she has launched a petition calling for the introduction of Richards Law: a legal framework that would require all carers to be registered, undergo enhanced DBS checks and complete mandatory training. If wed lived in Scotland or Wales, Goodman wouldnt have been allowed near my husband. But here in England, the law failed us, she says.

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Her petition has already attracted more than 25,000 signatures, with many supporters sharing stories of similar experiences. Having a register is not going to mend everything, but it provides another layer of safeguarding that we dont have at the moment, says Blacklock.

But for Woollam, the damage is already done. She believes Goodman stole almost 2,000 from her in total, and although police recovered her grandfathers 250-year-old heirloom, her mothers diamond engagement ring was never found. How do you possibly put a material price on that? she asks. The emotional damage is also profound. I dont have visitors anymore. I hate anybody coming to the house, and certainly strangers, its curtailed my life, she says. Im trying to put that desolation and anger to good use, which is why I feel so passionate about this campaign.

As the country braces for the pressures of an ageing population, Woollams message is clear: this is no longer just a matter of compassion, but of urgent structural reform. Its not a huge amount to ask to protect vulnerable people, she says. Im not the first, I wont be the last.

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The Brief

Miguel Aguasvivas was sentenced to seven years after pleading guilty to money laundering tied to an alleged Colombian cartel.

His wife, Katherine, was kidnapped and murdered by alleged cartel members in 2024 over drug money disputes, authorities say.

Miguels attorneys plan to appeal the sentence while his children cope with the familys loss and his imprisonment.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Miguel Aguasvivas, whose wife, Katherine, was kidnapped in Seminole County and murdered by an alleged drug cartel in 2024, was sentenced Tuesday to seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to money laundering charges. He was not charged in connection with her death.

What we know

Miguel Aguasvivas was sentenced Tuesday to seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to money laundering charges. His wife, Katherine Aguasvivas, was kidnapped in broad daylight in Winter Springs by co-defendants linked to an alleged Colombian drug cartel and later killed.

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Miguel Aguasvivas was not charged in connection with the kidnapping and murder.

What we don't know

It remains unclear how much Miguels sentence might be affected by the upcoming appeal his attorneys plan to file. The full extent of his involvement in the cartels operations beyond money transport is also not detailed.

The backstory

Miguel Aguasvivas, a skilled barber, served as a drug mule for a Colombian cartel and had multiple previous encounters with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), according to authorities.

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Katherines kidnapping and murder were connected to drug money disputes within the cartels network, investigators said. Miguels defense team argued he was a low-level participant, primarily transporting money, with no direct involvement in laundering activities.

Big picture view

The case highlights the dangers and consequences faced by individuals entangled in drug cartels. The couples seven-year-old daughter is now living with her grandmother and Miguels other children, who are affected by his actions.

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The judge emphasized that involvement in such situations carries foreseeable risks, including violent outcomes like Katherines death.

What they're saying

U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton Jr. noted Aguasvivas continued involvement despite multiple arrests, saying, "despite having been apprehended by the federal government, the defendant was not deterred."

Defense attorneys described Miguel as a "low-level participant" who "merely transported money" and had no role in laundering.

Miguel expressed remorse in court, apologizing for his "poor decisions" and the pain caused, saying he wants to be present in his childrens lives.

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Family members attended the sentencing but declined to comment.

What's next

Miguel Aguasvivas will likely be deported back to the Dominican Republic, according to Judge Dalton.

The Source

This story was written based on information shared in filings in the United States District Court Middle District of Florida, U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton Jr., the attorney representing Miguel Aguasvivas and Aguasvivas' family members.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A key union leader at Hyatt Regency has been wrongfully terminated after hotel staff decided to unionize last October, union leaders said Wednesday.

Demonstrations took place outside of the hotel downtown on Wednesday afternoon.

Luke Sills was a front desk supervisor who was fired after he joined the organizing committee for the union, he said. Sills described himself as employee of the year at one point prior to joining the committee. He said and his co-workers were later threatened for attempting to unionize.

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They told me that I was gonna regret getting involved in this, he said. Over the course of our campaign, I watched them fire a lot of my coworkers for supporting the union and helping lead the campaign, as well as surveille all of us  and just generally create a toxic and hostile work environment to pressure people to quit.

The union filed a new unfair labor practice charge Wednesday morning, according to their attorney.

Employers at the hotel watched their workers through surveillance cameras, put their social media pages on slideshows, and brought in firms from Florida to try to keep the union from organizing, Legislator St. Jean Tard alleged.

State Senator Sean Ryan said employers across the country have been attempting to beat unions for a long time.

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We are better off with this hotel being unionized, he said. Theyll get a better workforce out of it, theyll get more people staying at the hotel, and theyll get a higher rate of customer satisfaction. So, I call on the Hyatt to do the right thing.

Sills said that the National Labor Relations Board will pursue backpay and reinstatement for some fired workers after issuing an official complaint against the hotel.

WIVB News 4 has reached out to Hyatt and is waiting to hear back.

See the full press conference in the video player above.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
Federal agents detain an individual as he exits immigration court in New York City in July. Immigrants released at the border are being targeted for arrest when they show up for court hearings (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images).

Inside immigration courts around the country, immigrants who crossed the border illegally and were caught and released are required to appear before a judge for a preliminary hearing.

But in a new twist, the Trump administration has begun using an unexpected legal tactic in its deportation efforts. Rather than pursue a deportation case, it is convincing judges to dismiss immigrants cases  thus depriving the immigrants of protection from arrest and detention  then taking them into custody.

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The practice, affecting immigrants released at the border and given a notice to appear in court under both the Trump and Biden administrations, sometimes leads to people being quickly deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement through a process called expedited removal.

Many of the immigrants had requested asylum, as allowed under U.S. law. Late last month, advocates filed a lawsuit on behalf of a dozen immigrants unexpectedly arrested by ICE, often after having their cases dismissed.

When an immigrant crosses the border illegally and is caught, they may be given a notice to appear, or NTA, ordering them to appear before an immigration judge. It can sometimes take years, however, before their case comes up.

One of the immigrants in the lawsuit was caught at the border with Mexico and given a court appearance ticket in 2022 after fleeing Cuba. His opposition to forced conscription and the communist government in Cuba led to his arrest there and he was raped in custody, according to the lawsuit.

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At his first hearing in U.S. immigration court in May, his case was dismissed with no reason given and his attorney agreed, thinking the relatively new maneuver was a positive development.

But as he left the Miami court, the immigrant was arrested and sent to Washington state for detention, thousands of miles from his family and his wife, who is a U.S. citizen, according to the lawsuit.

The aftermath of these courthouse arrests and dismissals for placement in expedited removal wreaks further havoc on peoples lives, according to a class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice filed in July by a group of immigrant advocates. The group argued the practice is illegal and contrary to the traditional way people are treated when released at the border for court dates.

The lawsuit includes 12 immigrants: three from Cuba, three from Venezuela, two from Ecuador, two from Guinea and others from Liberia and the Chechen Republic. A Department of Justice spokesperson, Natalie Baldassarre, said the department had no comment on the lawsuit.

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After a courthouse arrest in New York City in July, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told CBS News that the new policy is reversing [President Joe] Bidens catch and release policy that allowed millions of unvetted illegal aliens to be let loose on American streets.

However, the Trump administration has also released immigrants seeking asylum at the border pending court dates, according to a June 27 report from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC) at the University of Syracuse, an organization that tracks federal statistics.

Almost 18,000 people were released at the border in May even after Trump officials closed the border, vowed not to allow anyone in and to immediately detain anyone not legally in the country caught inside the U.S., the report stated.

Other immigration attorneys who spoke with Stateline described uprooted lives caused by the new practice of arresting people after they show up for court hearings, but the attorneys declined to speak on the record for fear of drawing negative attention to their clients cases.

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Vanessa Dojaquez-Torres, practice and policy counsel for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, which represents more than 17,000 immigration attorneys and is not involved in the lawsuit, said the Department of Homeland Security is now arguing in court that anyone caught crossing the border should be arrested and detained, though its not happening in every case.

There is a large number of people going to court and getting arrested, and also people in detention not getting let out, Dojaquez-Torres said. This happens to people with no criminal background, no negative immigration history  they might even have a sponsor that says, We will house them and feed them and make sure they show up to their court hearings.

There are also cases of people arrested in court even if their case isnt dismissed, Dojaquez-Torres said.

One of the immigrants in the lawsuit, a Venezuelan who said he faced persecution in his home country as a gay man with HIV, was arrested July 1 after a hearing in New York City even though his case is still active, according to the lawsuit.

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One woman born in Venezuela, who fears persecution because of her sexual orientation and opposition to the Venezuelan government, applied for asylum within a year of entering the United States in 2022, but was arrested at her first court hearing May 27. She now faces an expedited removal order, which could mean an immediate deportation if she loses appeals. She is currently in detention in Ohio, according to the lawsuit.

Other cases mentioned in the lawsuit involved arrests at immigration courts in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota and Nevada.

Most of the immigrants mentioned in the lawsuit were caught crossing illegally. But two presented themselves at the border legally via an appointment set up through a phone app for asylum-seekers, CBP One, designed to limit the number of people who could cross the border asking for asylum. (The Trump administration shut down the app on its first day in office.)

In one of those cases, a gay man from Ecuador, facing government threats over his LGBTQ+ advocacy efforts, used the app in January and appeared in court June 4, according to the lawsuit.

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The government moved to dismiss his case, and he was deported back to Ecuador within a month, despite asking for more time to file an asylum case, according to the suit. He is now living in hiding.

The class-action lawsuit has not yet been answered by the government, though the chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, James Boasberg, ruled July 18 that the immigrants suing could use pseudonyms without identifying information as long as they provide real names and addresses in documents sealed from public view.

Courthouse arrests may cross a new line legally but theyre not likely to increase deportation significantly the way current large-scale workplace raids and transfers from local jails might, said Muzaffar Chishti, an attorney and policy expert at the Migration Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C., think tank. The administrations goal of 1 million deportations a year still seems unlikely, he said.

Arrests declined in July over the previous month, but deportations increased, according to an Aug. 2 TRAC report, with 56,945 people in detention. The number of detainees will increase with more federal funding for detention, but is still unlikely to reach the level needed to deport a million people in a year, Chishti said.

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The issue of courthouse arrests makes legal representation for immigrants all the more important, Chishti said.

Even in these horrendous cases, if you have a lawyer, hell know how to handle it and say, He cant be removed, hell be subject to torture, Chishti said. The difference between arrest and deportation could be the presence of a lawyer.

Nevertheless, the prospect of arrest and detention during a case that may last years could make immigrants hesitant to show up for court dates, which in turn could make them subject to immediate deportation.

If you dont show up for a court date, they will enter whats called an in absentia removal order. If you come into any contact with ICE after that, you will be most likely detained and removed, Dojaquez-Torres said.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.
MASON, Tenn. (WKRN)  The small town of Mason is moving forward with plans to reopen a closed prison as an ICE detention center operated by the private, Tennessee-based company, CoreCivic.

Town leaders voted Tuesday to approve a contract with CoreCivic and ICE, despite major opposition from Mason residents.

When ICE comes in, get ready to pack up, get ready to ditchbecause this town will not be safe anymore, one Mason neighbor said during the meeting.

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Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom

According to CoreCivic, the ICE facility will create around 240 jobs, generate $350,000 in property taxes, and another $200,000 in an annual impact fee for the towns economic development.

However, for CoreCivic, the deal is part of a long-standing relationship with ICE, which company executives said during an earnings call late last week has been their biggest customer for more than a decade. According to information shared during the call, CoreCivics revenue from ICE alone increased by almost $25.9 million, or 17%, in the 2nd quarter of 2025, and ICEs population in CoreCivic prisons increased by 28%. Officials said funding for immigration detention is at historic levels and will likely remain strong during the Trump Administration, thanks to the presidents so-called Big, Beautiful Bill.

During the chaotic and noisy meeting Tuesday, Mason Mayor Eddie Noeman told the crowd the deal is a win-win situation for the town of Mason, which was met with boos.

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Why do you want this over here? one resident asked.

I want the jobs jobs, Mayor Noeman said. People are sitting over here with no jobs. Whats the problem? We dont have to argue with that.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

CoreCivic issued News 2 the following statement about the Mason facility:

For more than 40 years, CoreCivic has played a limited but important role in Americas immigration system, which we have done for every administration  Democrat and Republican. We are grateful to the City of Mason, Mayor Eddie Noeman and the Board of Alderman members for supporting our opportunity to serve and meet the needs of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at our West Tennessee Detention Facility (WTDF). Were proud to continue our long-standing relationship within the Mason and Tipton County community, going back nearly 35 years.

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While we dont have a timeline to share regarding when the facility will become operational, its important that the people of Mason and the surrounding areas hear directly from us about the facilitywhat it will mean, what it wont mean, and our continued desire to be a positive and valued community partner.

The services we provide help the government solve problems in ways it could not do alone  to help create safer communities by assisting with the current immigration challenges, dramatically improve the standard of care for vulnerable people, and meet other critical needs efficiently and innovatively. These are problems the American public has made clear they want fixed.

Its also important to understand that CoreCivic has a long-standing, zero-tolerance policy not to advocate for or against any legislation that serves as the basis for  or determines the duration of  an individuals detention. CoreCivic does not enforce immigration laws, arrest anyone who may be in violation of immigration laws, or have any say whatsoever in an individuals deportation or release. CoreCivic also does not know the circumstances of individuals when they are placed in our facilities. Our responsibility is to care for each person respectfully and humanely while they receive the legal due process that they are entitled to.

The opportunity to serve ICE at WTDF will bring opportunities to recruit qualified staff by:

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Creating nearly 240 new jobs for local residents and those who may want to move into the local community. Already, over 2,100 unique job seekers have submitted 3,375 applications for the available positions.

Offering a starting salary of $26.50 per hour for detention officers.

Providing competitive benefits for staff like medical, dental and vision insurance coverage, a matching 401(k), paid leave, health advocacy services, financial wellness services, an employee assistance program and our tuition assistance scholarship fund.

The facility would also generate approximately $325,000 in annual property taxes, as well as an annual impact fee to the City of Mason of over $200,000, which could be used for local schools, infrastructure improvements and other important projects.

As important as it is to understand the many benefits of what this opportunity can create, its just as important to know what it  and our company  will not do:

We will not operate without direct, onsite oversight from our government partners.

We do not and will not lobby on any policies, regulations or legislation that impact the basis for or duration of an individuals detention.

We do not and will not enforce any immigration laws, arrest anyone who may be in violation of immigration laws, or have any say whatsoever in an individuals deportation or 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 WKRN News 2.
HUDSON, Colo. (KDVR)  A new immigration detention center will open in Colorado as President Donald Trump strengthens his immigration enforcement plan.

The new facility will open in Hudson, about 30 miles northeast of Denver, at a state prison that is currently closed. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement tells FOX31 it has run out of room in the Aurora detention center after making more arrests so far this fiscal year than in all of 2024.

6 locations noted as possible ICE detention facilities in Colorado: Report

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The 1,250-bed facility in Hudson was privately owned and closed in 2014. It was operated by the GEO Group, which also runs ICEs Aurora detention facility.

Hudson has approximately 1,600 residents. FOX31 spoke with some who fully support the use of the closed prison as an ICE facility.

If they can use it for something good, then Im good with that, said one resident.

Others say they do not want to have an immigration detention facility near their homes.

Really unbelievable, I mean, I wouldnt think that in my town, where I grew up, that this would happen, said one resident.

Those who support the use of the closed prison say ICE should utilize any resources that are available.

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Its a good idea because a lot of them are criminals, and if youre here, we dont need you here, said one resident.

Teen detained by ICE after traffic stop describes nightmare conditions in Aurora facility

An ICE spokesperson issued the following statement to FOX31.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements enhanced enforcement operations and routine daily operations have resulted in a significant number of arrests of criminal aliens that require greater detention capacity. While we cannot confirm individual pre-decisional conversations, we can confirm that ICE is exploring all options to meet its current and future detention requirements. ICE Spokesperson

U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen was informed about the new facility plans in Hudson on Monday during her visit to the ICE facility in Aurora. Pettersen provided the following statement to FOX31.

ICE seeks tips about 2nd fugitive accused of trying to ram agent near Colorado Springs

Its terrifying that the hundreds of billions of dollars dedicated to ICE and their unlawful actions are going to be more widespread and impact Colorado. Theyre already terrorizing immigrant communities and its going to get even worse. That means more people not showing up for work, more kids not showing up to school and being left behind, and huge consequences for our economy. There isnt a person who doesnt support making sure there is a process in place to deport convicted violent criminals  but thats not what theyre doing. Theyre overwhelmingly targeting people without any criminal history. These are people whove lived here for years, have families, and are vital to our state and economy. Whats happening is unlawful, unconstitutional, and disgraceful. U.S. Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen

The facility is expected to open by the end of the year.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The Trump administration and the aviation companies working for it have been purposely hiding the tail numbers on immigration flights to avoid public scrutiny and accountability, CNN reports. This move comes as the Trump administrations immigration crackdown ratchets up in frequency and aggression, as deportation flights are up 15 percent from last year.

A plane removing a tail number is the equivalent of a car removing a license plate. With the tail number, civilians, journalists, and immigration organizations alike can keep an eye on which deportation flights are leaving, and to where. It also helps loved ones track their deported family members.

The flights are run by multiple private charter companies and at least one commercial airline, each of which have lucrative contracts with ICE.

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Flightradar24, one of the websites that covers immigration, noticed in March that those subcontractors requested that their tail numbers be hidden from public flight-tracking sites and records, making them extremely difficult to follow. The bulk of these flights are domestic, moving detainees from facility to facility.

Flights operated on behalf of the United States government are often unidentified at the governments request. As subcontractors to the United States government, we ask that you direct your questions to them, said a spokesperson from Avelo Airlines, a company that has dedicated three of its planes to ICE deportations.

This is vital information to be able to understand how ICE is conducting its enforcement and deportation activities, ACLU National Prison Project senior counsel Eunice Cho told CNN. Sometimes this is the only information that the public has with respect to where ICE is placing people because of a general lack of transparency around detention and deportation under this particular administration.

The Department of Homeland Security has yet to comment.
A federal judge on Tuesday ordered federal immigration officials to immediately improve conditions at a New York City immigration holding facility, following complaints by detained migrants of filthy, overcrowded rooms and a lack of basic hygiene products.

U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan issued a temporary restraining order requiring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE) to reduce capacity, improve cleanliness and provide sleeping mats in holding rooms inside 26 Federal Plaza, a government building in Lower Manhattan.

The order comes after a lawsuit filed on behalf of detained migrants claimed they were subjected to unsanitary and overcrowded conditions, extreme temperatures, and a lack of access to soap, toothbrushes, and other essentials, according to The Associated Press.

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The migrants said they were fed inedible "slop" and were subjected to the stench of sweat, urine and feces, in part due to the rooms having open toilets.

One woman said that during her period, she couldnt access menstrual products because only two were made available to an entire room of women, court filings revealed.

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A judge ordered federal immigration officials to improve conditions at a New York City immigration holding facility.

At a hearing Tuesday, the plaintiffs attorney, Heather Gregorio, described the facility as having "inhumane and horrifying conditions."

DOJ attorney Jeffrey Oestericher acknowledged that detainees were receiving only two meals per day and were not provided medication or sleeping mats. However, he pushed back on the overcrowding claims, according to reports by The Hill.

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"Present conditions are relevant," Oestericher told the judge at the hearing. "To the extent they are talking about overcrowding, it does not appear presently that there is overcrowding."

"I think we all agree that conditions at 26 Federal Plaza need to be humane, and we obviously share that belief," he added. "I think there is some factual disagreement."

Detainees complained of having to endure extreme temperatures and not being offered hygiene products.

In Tuesday's order, Kaplan ordered immigration officials to provide 50 square feet per person. This means the largest hold rooms capacity will be brought down to about 15 people after detainees said there had been at least 40, according to The Associated Press.

The cells must also be thoroughly cleaned three times a day. Officials are additionally required to provide clean bedding mats and an adequate supply of soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene products.

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The judge also ordered officials to ensure detainees have confidential telephone calls with lawyers, including interpreters for those who do not speak English.

Bill Maher Confronts Dr. Phil On Joining Trump Admin's 'Unpopular' Ice Raids

The Justice Department acknowledged migrants were only given two meals each day and not provided with their medication or sleeping mats.

But Judge Kaplan wasnt convinced the situation wouldnt deteriorate again.

"My conclusion here is that there is a very serious threat of continuing irreparable injury, given the conditions that Ive been told about," the judge said at the hearing on Tuesday. "I have no enforceable way of assuring that any progress that, in fact, has been made wont backslide very quickly."

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The lawsuit was brought by the immigrant rights organization Make the Road New York, as well as the American Civil Liberties Union and the New York Civil Liberties Union.

"Todays order sends a clear message: ICE cannot hold people in abusive conditions and deny them their Constitutional rights to due process and legal representation," ACLU senior staff attorney Eunice Cho said in a statement.

"Well continue to fight to ensure that peoples rights are upheld at 26 Federal Plaza and beyond," the statement continued.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: ICE Ordered to Fix 'Horrifying' Conditions at NYC Facility After Migrant Complaints
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A federal judge in New York has ordered Donald Trumps administration to improve conditions inside a makeshift detention center in downtown Manhattan, where detainees reported little access to food and water, sleeping on cement floors and not having anywhere to bathe for days or weeks at a time.

The order from District Judge Lewis Kaplan on Tuesday arrived just hours after Department of Justice lawyers admitted that immigrants inside the holding facility dont have access to medication and arent allowed to meet with lawyers in person.

A lawsuit from civil rights groups includes several grim accounts from inside the facility on the 10th floor of 26 Federal Plaza, including allegations that a 20-year-old detainee was forced to wear blood-soaked clothing after Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents didnt provide her with a pad.

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In court filings, detainees said they were fed inedible slop and were forced to sleep in cells surrounded by the horrific stench of sweat, urine and feces in rooms with open toilets.

Other detainees reported spending as much as three weeks inside the facility without a chance to bathe or brush their teeth. Another man said he watched a detainee have a seizure for 30 minutes before medical help arrived.

Clandestinely recorded video captured the inside of a makeshift immigrant detention facility at a federal building in downtown Manhattan at the center of a lawsuit (New York Immigration Coalition)

Kaplan ordered ICE to improve detainees access to personal hygiene products and medical care, as well as free, unmonitored and confidential calls with lawyers within 24 hours after they are detained.

Cells must also be cleaned three times a day, according to the order.

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The order also prohibits people from detaining people in spaces with less than 50 square feet per person, which shrinks the capacity of the largest hold room to roughly a dozen or so people.

Tuesdays order sends a clear message: ICE cannot hold people in abusive conditions and deny them their constitutional rights to due process and legal representation, according to Eunice Cho, senior staff attorney at the ACLUs National Prison Project, among groups that sued the administration over conditions at the facility.

In a statement shared with The Independent, Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the judges order and lawsuit are driven by complete fiction about 26 Federal Plaza.

The fact of the matter here is the Trump administration is carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history and is removing the worst of the worst from American communities, she added. Any claim of subprime conditions at ICE facilities are categorically false. 26 Federal Plaza operates as a processing center, brief intake for illegal aliens, and then transfer to an ICE detention center meeting national standards for care and custody, which are in most cases better than facilities which detain Americans.

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Homeland Security intends to appeal Kaplans order.

In court filings, Hugo Elias Sanchez Trillos described spending nearly three weeks inside that facility, with a three-day break in between when he was transferred to Nassau County jail.

I was in the same clothes for 19 days, without ever having an opportunity to bathe, he wrote.

The room smelled terrible because no one had bathed, according to Joselyn Chipantiza Sisalema. There was no bathroom paper, and the guards would throw only a few paper napkins into our room, she wrote.

Detainees were served food only twice a day, around 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., and we got water only when the guards felt like it, Sanchez Trillos wrote.

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The food was processed and awful; it was difficult to eat. It came inside plastic bags that were usually cold, he said. The guards would eat their own food in front of us, things like pizza and hamburgers.  We were so hungry and it felt [like] they were jeering at us.

Video from inside the holding facility shows detainees lying on nothing but thin sheets with emergency blankets, with two toilets separated from the room by only a waist-high partition (New York Immigration Coalition)

Videos from inside the facility show roughly two dozen people crammed in, lying on a cement floor with nothing but emergency blankets and thin sheets, steps away from a toilet separated only by a waist-high partition.

Look how they have us like dogs in here, the person filming the videos can be heard saying in Spanish.

Footage obtained by the New York Immigration Coalition provides outsiders with a first glimpse of the room, which federal officials have prevented members of Congress from observing.

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In the clips, the men inside are seated on benches that line the walls or are lying on aluminum emergency blankets on the bare floor. Two toilets in the room, one of which appears to be covered by tinfoil, are blocked off by a small partition. No doors separate the toilets from the rest of the room.

Following Tuesdays order, the shadow 10th floor detention center must be shut down permanently, coalition president Murad Awawdeh said in a statement.

A federal judge has ordered ICE to improve conditions at the holding facility following a lawsuit that accused officers of limiting access to food and water, with detainees alleging unsanitary conditions without proper medical care (Getty)

Immigrants rights groups, lawyers and lawmakers have warned for weeks about deteriorating conditions inside the building, which also houses immigration courts. Federal law enforcement officers have been stationed in the buildings hallways since at least May 20 to make arrests moments after immigrants appear in court.

The hold room is not intended to hold people for longer than 12 hours, according to ICEs internal guidance. In May and June, when arrests at immigration check-ins and courthouses began to skyrocket, immigrants were being held inside the room for 29 hours on average, according to a review from New York City news outlet The City. Within those two months, 81 people were detained there for four days or more at a time.

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Detentions peaked on June 5, when 186 people were held there overnight, The City found.

Thousands of people across the country have faced arrest after showing up for court-ordered ICE check-ins and immigration court hearings as part of the Trump administrations mass deportation agenda.

Unlike federal district court judges, immigration court judges operate under the direction of the attorney generals office.

The Department of Justices Executive Office for Immigration Review has issued guidance to judges to grant motions from government lawyers to immediately dismiss immigrants cases, making them easy targets for arrest and removal.
NEW YORK  A federal judge ordered the Trump administration Tuesday to immediately improve conditions at a New York City immigration holding facility, acting on complaints by jailed migrants that cells are dirty, smelly and overcrowded.

Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, ruling in a lawsuit filed on behalf of detainees, issued a temporary restraining order requiring US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to limit capacity, ensure cleanliness and provide sleeping mats in so-called hold rooms at 26 Federal Plaza, a government building in Manhattan.

A cell phone video recorded last month by a detainee showed about two dozen men crowded in one of the buildings four hold rooms, many lying on the floor with thermal blankets but no mattresses or padding.

A woman being detained by ICE agents at the Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building on Aug. 12, 2025, in New York City. Getty Images

In court filings, detainees complained they had no soap, toothbrushes and other hygiene products. They also said they were fed inedible slop and endured the horrific stench of sweat, urine and feces, in part because the rooms have open toilets. One woman having her period couldnt use menstrual products because women in her room were given just two to divvy up, the lawsuit said.

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Kaplan instructed federal immigration officials to allocate 50 square feet per person  shrinking the capacity of the largest hold room to about 15 people, down from the 40 or more individuals that detainees said were being jammed into the rooms. The building, home to immigration court, the FBIs New York field office and other federal offices, has become a hotbed of arrests and detention amid President Donald Trumps crackdown on illegal immigration.

The judge ordered the government to thoroughly clean the cells three times a day, provide adequate supplies of soap, towels, toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste and feminine products. Addressing concerns that detainees werent able to communicate with lawyers, Kaplan ordered the government to make accommodations for confidential, unmonitored and unrecorded legal telephone calls.

My conclusion here is that there is a very serious threat of continuing irreparable injury, given the conditions that Ive been told about, Kaplan said at a hearing Tuesday where a government lawyer conceded that some of the complaints were valid.

I think we all agree that conditions at 26 Federal Plaza need to be humane, and we obviously share that belief, government lawyer Jeffrey S. Oestericher said, adding that he agreed inhumane conditions are not appropriate and should not be tolerated.

A woman in custody after her hearing in 26 Federal Plaza on Aug. 7, 2025. ZUMAPRESS.com

The lawsuit  filed by the immigrant rights organization Make the Road New York, the New York Civil Liberties Union and the American Civil Liberties Union  sought court intervention to end what plaintiff lawyer Heather Gregorio called inhumane and horrifying conditions.

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Some detainees have been held at 26 Federal Plaza for days or even weeks before being sent to other facilities  longer than the 72-hour norm, Gregorio said.

In a sworn declaration, Nancy Zanello, an assistant director of ICEs New York City Field Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations, wrote that as of Monday a total of 24 people were held in the buildings four hold rooms  well shy of the city fire marshals 154-person cap.

Each room is equipped with at least one toilet and sink, and hygiene products are available, including soap and teeth cleaning wipes, and feminine products, Zanello said.

Sergio Barco Mercado, the named plaintiff in the lawsuit, said in a court filing that he was held at 26 Federal Plaza for two days last week after his arrest there while leaving an immigration court hearing. He was subsequently transferred to an upstate New York detention facility.

Federal immigration officers questioning a man at immigration court on Aug. 6, 2025. ZUMAPRESS.com

Barco Mercado, a native of Peru who said he sought asylum in the US in 2022, said his hold room was extremely crowded, cold and smelled of sewage, and that the conditions exacerbated a tooth infection that swelled his face and altered his speech.

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We did not always get enough water, Barco Mercado said in a sworn declaration. There was one guard who would sometimes hold a bottle of water up and people would wait to have him squirt some into our mouths, like we were animals.

Another detainee, Carlos Lopez Benitez, said he fled violence in Paraguay in 2023 and was seeking asylum in the US when he was arrested in July while leaving an immigration court hearing. Officers pressed him to self-deport, he said, and told him hed be in detention until a 2029 hearing on his asylum application.

Lopez Benitez said an arresting officer showed him a cell phone photo of his arrest and mocked him for crying. In his holding cell, he said, officers kept the air conditioning blasting and doled out meals that looked like dog food.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 356 illegal aliens in Houston for alleged criminal gang activity, the agency announced.

According to ICE, the individuals were affiliated with more than 40 criminal gangs and had a combined total of 1,685 criminal convictions, including arson and sexual assault of children. They had collectively entered the United States illegally 1,434 times.

Despite attempts by some to undermine the courageous work being done by our officers, the brave men and women of ICE continue to put their lives on the line every day to arrest violent transnational gang members, foreign fugitives and dangerous criminal aliens, Gabriel Martinez, acting field office director for ICEs Enforcement and Removal Operations in Houston, said in a statement.

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In just the past couple of years in Houston, transnational gang members were responsible for brutally raping and murdering an innocent 12-year-old girl on her way to the store, Martinez said. Our officers know their efforts can help prevent atrocities like that from ever occurring again, and they wont rest until theyre all gone.

ICE has made numerous arrests of illegal aliens across Texas in recent months. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, ICE officers arrested a 44-year-old Mexican national on July 31 who had previously been convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and intent to kill, according to ICEs Dallas Enforcement and Removal Operations office.
The Idaho attorney general is joining a multi-state effort to crackdown on illegal robocalls. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador announced Wednesday that his office is joining a multi-state effort to crack down on robocalls nationally.

Labrador and the 51 attorneys general who comprise the bipartisan Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force sent warning letters to 37 voice providers to demand that they stop illegal robocalls from being routed through their networks, a press release from Labradors office said.

Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador (Courtesy of the Idaho Attorney Generals office)

Idahoans are sick of scammers targeting their families through illegal robocalls, Labrador said in the release. Were putting these telecommunications providers on notice that they must follow federal rules immediately.

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The providers have not complied with Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, rules regarding responding to government traceback requests  in which the origination and delivery of robocalls is traced  have not registered in the FCCs Robocall Mitigation Databases, or have not filed a plan to describe how they will reduce illegal robocalls.

By disregarding these simple rules, these companies are allowing robocallers onto their phone networks and then passing their calls on to other downstream providers until they reach the phones of Idahoans, the release said.

The task force is also sending letters to 99 downstream providers that accept calls from the 37 companies to inform them that they are doing business with bad actors that are not willing to follow the rules that apply to everyone equally, the release said.

Officials from the FCC, in addition to the task forces work, announced Tuesday that they would remove seven of the 37 providers from the Robocall Mitigation Database, which means that other providers will no longer be allowed to accept and route any calls from their networks.

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The voice service providers receiving warning letters are:

Advantage Investors LLC Alpha Stream Ananya Traders LLC Ariyan Khan BBT Voice Private Limited Belthrough BPO VoIP Collection 3 LLC Communications and Telephone Systems Co. Dial Vista Corp. DigitalOcean, LLC Dtel Network LLC End Zone Financial Services EON Telecom Inc. Family Communication Inc. Fiber Flux VOIP First Tele Communications Inc. Flow VOIP LLC Globe Tech Solutions Higher Response Marketing, Inc. HK KwaiFong Group Limited Infinity SIP LLC Lexico Telecom LTD / Lextel LTD Mexico IP Phones LLC Nexusphere VOIP LLC Pleedex LLC Quantum Link VOIP LLC Ringnition SK Teleco LLC SkyPulse VOIP Stacy Newsome LNCC LCC Telnextrix LLC Terra Voip TheVisionConnect Tiera Enterprises LLC Voip Torque Whisl Telecom, LLC / Telconus / Telcon US / Telcon Voice

In 2022, 51 attorneys general joined forces to create the Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force, which is led by North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. The task force investigates and takes legal action against companies responsible for significant volumes of illegal and fraudulent robocall traffic routed into and across the country, the release said.

In April, Labrador notified nine voice service providers that they may be violating state and federal laws by continuing to route allegedly unlawful robocalls across their networks.

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A Nampa man was charged with first-degree murder and accused of killing another man who was having an affair with the suspects wife, according to a probable cause affidavit obtained by the Idaho Statesman.

Saengutone Ty Maria, 33, allegedly shot and killed 34-year-old Brandon Meseroll around 9 a.m. Friday at a Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Nampa, according to the affidavit, which was written by Nampa Police Cpl. Detective Kyle Ferrari. Meseroll died from multiple gunshot wounds, according to a news release from the Canyon County Corners Office.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones during this time of sorrow, the Coroners Office wrote.

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On Thursday night, Marias wife met Meseroll at the Holiday Inn, and Maria began texting and calling her, the report said. He demanded her location and threatened to kill their children, the affidavit said. Maria had previously been verbally and physically abusive toward her, the wife later told investigators. Marias wife had met Meseroll in March and developed a relationship, according to the affidavit.

The next morning, she left the hotel building with Meseroll, of Salem, Oregon, and as she got in her black Cadillac SUV in the parking lot Messerol leaned in to kiss her goodbye, Ferrari wrote. Then she heard several gunshots.

Her husband was standing over Meseroll with a pistol in his hand, the affidavit said. Maria allegedly continued to shoot and fled from the parking lot in his black 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. Video footage showed that Maria had arrived at the hotel earlier that morning, according to the affidavit. Boise police apprehended him in Ada County hours later.

Maria, 33, appeared in court Tuesday afternoon, when 3rd Judicial District Magistrate Judge Matthew Thompson issued an order preventing Maria from contacting his wife or children. When asked to clarify whether he knew who the no-contact order was for, Maria in a reserved manner said, my family.

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Hes in custody on a $1 million bond at the Canyon County Jail. If convicted, Maria could face up to life in prison or the death penalty if prosecutors choose to seek it. Marias next hearing is scheduled for 8 a.m. Aug. 22, when his public defender plans to argue against his bond amount.

Investigators are still looking into the incident and asked anyone with information to leave a voicemail for Ferrari at 208-468-5633.

The Nampa Police Department extends its gratitude to community members who shared the suspects and suspect vehicles description to assist in locating him, a news release said. We also share our appreciation for the work of the Ada County Sheriffs Office, Idaho State Police, and Boise Police Department in the safe outcome of Mr. Marias arrest.
Bryan Kohberger's fellow inmates have reportedly found a way to antagonize him despite the convicted murderer being in solitary confinement at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution.

According to reports, many of them yell through the vents connected to his cell block and have been taking turns carrying out the disruptive acts.

Bryan Kohberger is currently serving four consecutive life sentences at the correctional facility for the murders of four University of Idaho students.

The Convicted Murderer Suffers Brutal Taunts Almost All Hours Of The Day

Ada County Sheriff's Office/MEGA

Barely weeks into the start of his consecutive life sentences, Bryan Kohberger is finding out that life in prison is far harder than he could have imagined.

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The convicted murderer is currently residing in solitary confinement in a cell in IMSI J block, the restricted unit that houses violent offenders.

Still, per a source that spoke with the Daily Mail, he has been the subject of a "relentless" taunt campaign by many of the inmates within the block.

"It's driving him crazy," said Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective with prison connections.

He noted, "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day  taunting him through the vents in his cell. They are literally getting up into the grate and yelling at him. The inmates are taking turns doing it. It's relentless."

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According to McDonough, Kohberger has been "extremely annoyed and frustrated" by the taunts, which likely began the moment he was placed in the facility.

The former police officer also claimed that the convicted murderer has complained to prison officials about losing sleep because of the harassment.

Bryan Kohberger Is Among 535 'Volatile Male Residents' At The Institution

MEGA

Per the Department of Corrections' website, he is one of the 535 "volatile male residents" the institution currently houses.

He is listed alongside Chad Daybell, the convicted child murderer and husband of "Doomsday" cult mom Lori Vallow.

This is likely why the former PhD student was placed in solitary confinement, as many inmates might want to harm him "just to make a name for themselves."

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While solitary confinement ensures he avoids situations where he could be physically injured, it also means he is unlikely to get any respite from the taunting.

Prison Officials Are Unlikely To Intervene To Stop Inmates' Taunts

MEGA

According to McDonough, prison officials aren't likely to stop the inmates' antics since they do not pose a physical threat to Kohberger while he remains in solitary confinement.

Meanwhile, aside from the taunts from inmates, Kohberger has had to adjust to the downsides of being in solitary confinement.

He is only let out once a day for recreation, during which he must still wear restraints, unlike inmates in the general population.

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He is also allowed to bathe only every other day, a stark contrast to his time at the Latah County Jail, where he stayed during his trial.

Latah County Prosecutors Claim They Knew Bryan Kohberger Was Guilty

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Though the murder case ended with a plea deal, prosecutors claim that they knew right from the onset that Kohberger was guilty of killing the four Idaho University students.

"I knew he was guilty," said Ashley Jennings, Senior Deputy Prosecutor of Latah County, the county where the trial was moved to from Moscow, per Fox 13.

She added, "Our investigators knew he was guilty, but hearing it from his own mouth and dispelling any doubters out there as to his guilt, I felt some satisfaction with that."

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Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson, who worked alongside Jennings on the case, confirmed they were fully prepared for trial and had been working seven-day weeks in the lead-up to the now-scrapped proceedings.

"I can tell you right up front, we were never looking for a plea in this case," he said. "The defense all along had maintained that the defendant was factually innocent."'

Latah County Prosecutors Addressed Released Crime Scene Photos And Documents

MEGA

Following Kohberger's plea deal and sentencing, several documents from the authorities' investigation have surfaced in the media.

The release of some of these materials, such as crime scene photos, has angered some of the victims' families. However, according to Latah County prosecutors, they had no control over the decision to release them.

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"I don't want to cast stones, but I think there is a fundamental disagreement between our opinion on what should be released and what the legal counsel for the city of Moscow believes. And in the end, it's Moscow's legal counsel's call," Thompson told the outlet.

He added, "Investigation reports belong to Moscow police and the Idaho State police, and the FBI, and we understand that they're tough decisions to be made. We're really concerned about invading the privacy of the survivors and of the family members. I think it is probably best to leave it at that."
The Idaho Legislatures Land Use and Housing Study Committee conducts its first meeting May 14 at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise. (Clark Corbin/Idaho Capital Sun)

An interim committee of Idaho legislators and building officials studying land use policies and affordable housing issues is nearing the point where it will transition from information gathering to considering action.

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The Idaho Legislatures interim Land Use and Housing Study Committee meets at 8 a.m. Thursday in Sandpoint.

Thursdays meeting is the committees third since Sen. Ali Rabe, D-Boise, pushed for creation of the committee during the 2025 legislative session. In calling for the committee, Rabe said access to affordable housing is one of the most important issues facing Idaho.

After years working on housing issues as executive director of the Boise-based nonprofit organization Jesse Tree, Rabe said the committee represents an important step of bringing state legislators, city officials, builders, planners, building officials, real estate agents and more to the same table together.

It was an important step because the problem in the past was people would bring forward legislative proposals in January and no one was on the same page so nothing ever got done, Rabe said. I think its really important to hear from all the stakeholders.

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Now, Rabe said legislators, building officials, planners, homebuilders and other folks are all having a comprehensive conversation around housing.

Idaho legislators will start considering recommendations to address affordable housing in the state

Through the first two meetings, the committee has been in information gathering mode, said Sen. Jim Woodward, a Republican from Sagle who serves as the committees co-chair.

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After Thursdays meeting, Woodward said committee members will have a homework assignment to begin considering recommendations.

Woodward hopes to compile recommendations, not new laws, in a best practices document because the solution to housing needs may look different in small, rural or tourist communities than it will in larger cities.

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I will be slow in moving to a state-level solution because I think we can take on most of these challenges at the local level, Woodward said Tuesday. When we put in place a law, that always becomes a one-size-fits-all solution.

Throughout the process, Woodward said he has been struck by how interested the public is in the committee and land use and housing issues. Woodward also said one issue with housing is undeniable  many people in Idaho are not able to afford to continue living in the place where they grew up.

Rabe said there will be some tension as the committee moves from information gathering to decision making or taking action.

But she remains optimistic.

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No matter their political background, folks agree this is a big issue right now that needs to be addressed, Rabe said

Through the first two meetings, Rabe said the committee has centered around a few key issues. Rabe said one major issue is infrastructure needs like water and sewer systems. Rabe said the Idaho Legislatures passage of the property tax bill House Bill 389 during the 2021 legislative session limits growth of local budgets and hurts cities and counties ability to afford infrastructure needed to support housing development.

Its one of the issues preventing housing from getting built in Idaho, Rabe said. Weve talked about infrastructure quite a bit, and we will keep talking about it.

Rabe said committee members have also discussed financing options, tax credits or subsidies for builders and other incentives as possible creative solutions to building more housing.

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After this weeks meeting, the Land Use and Housing Study Committee is scheduled to meet again Sept. 26 at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.

Find live streaming coverage of the Land Use and Housing Committees meeting online

The Idaho Legislatures Land Use and Housing Study Committee meets at 8 a.m. Pacific Time Thursday in the Sandpoint Council Chambers, 1123 W. Lake St., in Sandpoint.

Free online streaming coverage of the meeting is available through the Idaho In Session service.

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Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir on Wednesday approved "the main framework for the IDF's operational plan in the Gaza Strip," according to an IDF spokesperson.

"As part of the discussion, IDF operations to date were presented, including an attack in the Zeitoun area that began yesterday," the spokesperson said in a statement.

"The central concept for the plan for the next stages in the Gaza Strip was presented and approved, in accordance with the directive of the political echelon," the spokesperson added.

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Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his security cabinet approved plans for the IDF to seize and occupy Gaza City -- the strip's largest urban area -- as part of an expanded military operation to "demilitarize" the strip and remove Hamas from power.

The operation would force the IDF to operate in areas where Israel believes Hamas is holding living hostages.

Ohad Zwigenberg/AP - PHOTO: Israeli tanks move near the border of the Gaza Strip in southern Israel, on Aug. 6, 2025.

Netanyahu set out "five principles" for the end of the war.

"One, Hamas disarmed. Second, all hostages freed. Third, Gaza demilitarized. Fourth, Israel has overriding security control. And five, non-Israeli, peaceful civil administration -- by that I mean a civilian administration that doesn't educate its children for terror, that doesn't pay terrorists and doesn't launch terrorist attacks against Israel."

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Netanyahu's plans to expand the war have been sharply criticized by the families of the hostages who call it a death sentence for their loved ones. Israel believes 20 hostages are still alive in Hamas captivity -- the terror group is also holding the bodies of 30 killed hostages.

Hospitals across Gaza recorded 123 deaths and 437 injuries over the previous 24 hours, Gaza's Hamas-run Ministry of Health said Wednesday.

MORE: High level of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in Gaza, analysis finds

Among the dead were 21 people killed while trying to collect humanitarian aid, the ministry said, while another 185 people were injured.

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Eight deaths due to hunger were also recorded across Gaza in the past day, the ministry said on Wednesday. The death toll this year due to famine has risen to 235, including 106 children, according to Gaza's Government Media Office.

ABC News' Morgan Winsor and Diaa Ostaz contributed to this report.
Zamir's approval comes amid rising tensions between the IDF top brass and Netanyahu's government, after the IDF chief expressed concern over the planned operation.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir on Wednesday approved the central concept and plans for the IDFs expanded offensive in the Gaza Strip, the military said.

The discussion held by Zamir also included Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) officials and other senior defense officials.

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A plan for further steps to be taken in the Gaza Strip was also presented and approved. On Thursday, Zamir and other IDF commanders will present the central ideas for the occupation of Gaza City to Defense Minister Israel Katz. Upon that approval, forces will be notified and deployed to Gaza, and a number of reserve units will be called up.

Zamir had attended a discussion on the possibility of a full takeover of the Gaza Strip last week. On Friday, Zamir convened several senior officials, including Southern Command Chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor, Military Intelligence Director Maj.-Gen. Shlomi Binder, Operations Directorate Chief Maj.-Gen. Itzik Cohen, and Israel Air Force Commander Maj.-Gen. Tomer Bar.

During this meeting, Zamir presented the main operational vision, focusing on the conditions to bring back the remaining hostages and dismantle Hamass rule while ensuring the security of IDF soldiers.

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir in discussions with general staff officials to approve Gaza takeover plan, August 13, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

Security sources told Walla that the main task of planning the operation was assigned to the planning, operations, and intelligence branches of Southern Command. They have been working on population movement strategies from Gaza City southward to the al-Mawasi region, as well as strategies to secure the area.

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It is believed that Hamas has prepared for the large-scale IDF operation, including infrastructure both above and below ground, with lookout posts, firing positions, machine guns, explosives, tunnels, and ambush plans.

As the operations move closer to the heart of these neighborhoods, Hamas is likely to launch rockets, with some of these sites used as launching positions that Hamas refurbished in the past year.

Tensions had risen between Zamir and Netanyahu over Gaza plans

During the meeting, tensions flared between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Zamir. Netanyahu has previously said that the hostages would only be freed after increasing military pressure on Hamas. However, Zamir has expressed concern about troop fatigue after the nearly two-year war in Gaza, as well as the extent of the IDFs ability to free the hostages solely through military pressure.

The prime minister stated, We need to change the approach taken so far; only then will we be able to free the hostages. Zamir warned that it could become a strategic trap.

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On Monday, the chief of staff said, We are at the start of a new stage in the fighting in Gaza. We will do everything to protect the hostages and bring them home.

Amichai Stein and Sarah Ben-Nun contributed to this report.
Illegal Immigrant Who Killed Former WNBA Player's Mom Identified originally appeared on The Spun.

A former WNBA player's mom was reportedly struck and killed in a two-vehicle accident involving an illegal immigrant.

The mother of former WNBA player Sophie Brunner was killed in a two-vehicle crash involving a man who was in the United States illegally, according to reports on Wednesday, August 13. Brunner, 29, played in the WNBA in 2017. She was a three-time first-team All-Pac-12 performer at Arizona State before going undrafted in the 2017 WNBA Draft.

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Darcy Brunner, 61, was reportedly driving a Ford Edge in Illinois. She was reportedly traveling northbound on Route 26. She was reportedly struck head-on by a Nissan Altima, allegedly driven by an illegal immigrant.

Stephenson County Sheriff Steven Stovall announced the tragic news on Wednesday afternoon.

Clothing used to scale a chain link fence is seen north of gate number 47 of the border wall were migrants have been entering to cross illegally into the U.S. from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Omar Ornelas/ El Paso Times / USA TODAY NETWORK

The illegal immigrant reportedly involved in the accident has been identified on social media on Wednesday.

Man involved in crash with former WNBA player's mom identified

The man who was allegedly driving the car that killed the former WNBA player's mom has been identified.

Rolando Ico-Choc, 30, a native of Guatemala, was reportedly driving the car. He also died in the crash.

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"Police said the Altima crossed into the northbound lane. Both drivers were killed in the crash, Stovall said. Authorities are awaiting results of toxicology tests, but Stovall indicated Brunner is not thought to be at fault," the report states.

Sen. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) said Ico-Choc, who was in the country illegally, was a multiple times DUI offender.

I hold JB Prizker personally responsible. I hold the Democrats personally responsible, said Rep. John Cabello (R-Machesney Park). A life was taken by someone who shouldnt have been here.

He added: If we find there was a warrant for this mans arrest, we all need to rise up and we need to demand resignations from our elected officials."

Illegal Immigrant Who Killed Former WNBA Player's Mom Identified first appeared on The Spun on Aug 13, 2025

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Katy Miller never meant to start a skincare company. It just happened.

As the founder of Lillie & Pine, a company specializing in all things skincare, she's now accepted her fate and has made it her mission to promote wellness  and smelling good  wherever she goes. But that wasn't initially the goal.

In fact, she hadn't wanted to own a business at all.

"This was accidentally established in 2017," she said. "Be careful with your hobbies."

Her interested in skincare started early in her marriage. While on a road trip with her in-laws in New Mexico, she asked her mother-in-law what products she was using.

"And she said, 'Oh honey. We just put whatever was in the kitchen on our face. Don't ask me, I make my own stuff,'" Miller said. "So I said, 'Well, cool. Send me some recipes because that sounds fun.'"

Then began the research into the importance of skincare not only for outward appearance, but for overall health. The skin is the first line of defense for the immune system, and Miller soon learned hers was very sensitive.

"I really was somebody who used a lot of commercial and conventional skincare, a lot of perfumes and I had headaches and allergies, and I just thought that came with life," she said. " And so I noticed that when my mother-in-law gave me these recipes and I started making my own skincare, I just felt better."

It didn't take long before Miller experienced a huge relief from her allergies and headaches. Next, she got good at taking the existing recipes and making new ones.

"And I got really good at what I do by making about 10,000 mistakes in little Tupperware jars," she said. "And when I got really good, on about the 10,000th jar, people started saying, 'Can I have some?'"

It was 2014 and the business had no name, but it did have products in Tupperware containers, sealed with packing tape. But people still wanted the products and she still enjoyed making them for gifts.

"If you ask my family, at one point they said, 'What are you going to make next? Elbow serum, right arm soap, left arm soap?'" she said with a laugh. "I was making everything."

Before long, her friends and family saw the vision of a business. But Miller wasn't buying it.

"I never had any ambition to own my own business," she said. "I said, 'That sounds crazy, selling soap and lotion for a living.' But what they said is focus on your core competencies."

Instead of launching a product line with dozens of items, Miller slowed it down and started focusing on lotion. It was an instant best seller.

With the products now selling, Miller needed to come up with a name for her company. She thought back to her childhood home, where she grew up on Lillie Avenue and Pine Street.

Being a self-taught chemist, Miller credited the mistakes in the Tupperware jobs for how she perfected her craft. She knew she was looking for a lotion with a rich scent but satin-like texture that wasn't greasy.

She spent two years on the recipe, often passing it through what she called the "iPhone test." After applying the lotion she'd swipe her finger across the screen to see if it left a mark. When it finally didn't, she knew she had the right recipe.

"I did get good enough at the chemistry where I've been able to write a few molecular structures," she said.

It's something she's proud of, considering chemistry was not her strongest subject in school. She was more focused on writing and thought she'd be a journalist.

Instead, she combined the skills for her own business with the writing skills coming in handy when its time to make labels and write product descriptions for her website. In addition to her own brand, Miller makes products for Bella, a boutique in LeClaire, and Sanctuary Studios in Moline.

"I've even gone as far as LA six times now to pitch a product for Snoop Dog," she said. "A hemp lotion using his own hemp."

The details are still in the works, but Miller has the packaging and presentation all laid out. She ended up on Snoop's doorstep after working on another product for music artist Waka Flocka Flame.

That interaction happened at the Freight House Farmer's Market in Davenport where Miller had set up a pop-up shop for her products. Someone who worked for him came to her booth and the pair began talking.

Miller had been working on a tattoo balm she wanted to pitch to someone. She suggested they could call it Waka Wax.

"And then I found myself on Facetime with Waka Flocka two weeks later," she said.

Immediately the rapper was impressed by the packaging Miller created, because it matched his cars. He couldn't believe it, Miller said, but it's a point in her business where the journalism and chemistry meet.

"When I want to create a product for someone I have no shared background with, I do all the research and watch all the interviews," she said. "Journalism has opened all the doors for chemistry."

Miller has since created a sample for Waka Flocka Flame, but no official orders have been placed. And, that's OK, too.

Brand exposure and getting to see new parts of the world mean just as much to her as collaborations. What's lead to her success, she said, is wearing her "Quad-Cities personality like a 10-gallon hat."

"It's very hard to stand out in markets like (LA) but what can help is when you're from a place like this," she said.

Asking questions and seeing how she can work with people and not for them often sets her apart, she said. Brand executives in bigger cities are used to people wanting things from them, but not so much the Midwestern nice that invites collaboration and solutions.

But even the Midwest has its challenges.

When Miller launched in 2017 she opened a booth in The Spotlight Theatre in Moline. The building has been transformed into a neighborhood of shops for business owners like Miller.

She attempted to merge the company with another shop nearby, but the chemistry was harder to grasp than expected. Instead, she relaunched again in 2023, starting Lillie & Pine all over again.

"It's really been a couple years now with the challenge of what direction we want to go in," she said.

Shortly after outgrowing the booth, Miller purchased an 8,500 square foot building in Moline. It was a big upgrade from the 1,000 square foot production facility she had been using, but it wasn't quite right for retail and was going to be listed for sale soon.

"And what I've found and heard from my customers, is that they want to see us in a lot of retail locations, if not our own," she said.

Narrowing down the perfect place for a flagship store is easier said than done, it turns out. Instead of focusing on one location, Miller has her sights set much bigger and has a goal to be in 20 retail locations by the end of 2025.

It's the perfect formula for a business based on smell and texture. Those two things are what set her products apart from others, she said, and are why she continues the hard work of being a business owner.

"I found that my 'why' since I was little was to always make people feel comfortable in their own skin and to make people feel good," she said. "That translated to the chemistry of skincare. Every product that I make is designed to feel perfect in your skin. It's designed to perform without you knowing it's on you, except for the smell and the softness of your skin."

Miller can't possibly decide which product she likes the best.

"I can distinctly remember the moment that I created each one of these recipes, or decided on each scent," she said. "They're so very personal to me."

Being part of a personal routine, too, is a goal for Miller. Before making her own products, she used lotion every day to combat dry skin. After making her own products, she only needs it a few times a week.

"I use less because it's cleaner. It just works better, lasts longer and it's efficient," she said. "I worked really hard on the chemistry part."

And, her hard work was noticed by others in the industry.

Shortly after launching Lille & Pine, Miller was approached by the company Iowa Naturals. They'd been around for 20 years and specialized in self-care products.

The owner was looking to retire and offered to sell it to Miller, who declined. A few years later the new owners approached Miller again, asking if she wanted to purchase the company.

They'd bought it as a side-hustle, but were expecting their first child and didn't have the time to continue the operation. Miller relented, and expanded her line to include their products as well.

It's a lot of work, she admitted, owning her own company and being one of just a handful of employees, but over the years, the business became part of her family.

"When you create every label, every ingredient, the packaging; I spent hours researching and testing and all the labels I designed myself. Every part of this business, down to the photography on our website, the coding on our website, washing the dishes. I've been involved in everything the way a mother is involved with a child," she said.

But it's not just part of the family. It's a family business, it's her life's work and it's proof 10,000 mistakes in Tupperware jars aren't all mistakes.

"This is a hobby gone terribly right," Miller said.
Illinois courts will not force Texas Democrats back to the state, a judge ruled Wednesday, dealing a blow to Attorney General Ken Paxton and House Speaker Dustin Burrows efforts to restore the headcount necessary to pass the GOPs new congressional map.

Burrows issued civil arrest warrants Aug. 4 for the dozens of House Democrats who left the state to deny quorum, the minimum number of people required for the House to take up legislation. Those warrants can only be enforced within state lines, making them largely symbolic for the lawmakers who had absconded to Illinois, Massachusetts and New York.

But Burrows and Paxton took the unusual step of asking courts in those states to carry out the warrants and bring the lawmakers back to Texas.

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On Wednesday, Illinois Judge Scott Larson rejected the petition, ruling that Paxton and Burrows had failed to present a legal basis for the court to take up the issue.

Illinois courts cannot consider whether foreign legislators were willfully evading their duties, and they cannot direct Illinois law enforcement to execute civil quorum warrants upon nonresidents temporarily located in the State of Illinois, Larson said, noting that the warrants specifically say they are to be enforced within Texas. Even if the court were to take up the case, which Larson ruled it lacks the ability to do, the response would be a ruling on whether the lawmakers are willfully disobeying a court order  not an order returning them to Texas as Paxton and Burrows demanded, Larson said.

Spokespeople for Paxton and Burrows did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The lawsuit was filed in Illinois westernmost county, four and a half hours away from the Chicago suburb where the Democrats have camped out. The county voted for Trump by 47 percentage points in 2024, suggesting Paxton was seeking a friendlier venue than he might have found in DuPage County  where the Democrats are staying  which went for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris by 14 points.

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The Legislature is winding down its first 30-day special session, which was abruptly interrupted by the Democrats quorum break. Burrows has said he will adjourn the session Friday if there is no quorum, and Gov. Greg Abbott has promised to call lawmakers back immediately for another overtime round.

The new congressional map, drawn after pressure from President Donald Trump, aims to give Republicans five additional seats to shore up the partys slim majority in the U.S. House ahead of the 2026 midterms.

More all-star speakers confirmed for The Texas Tribune Festival, Nov. 1315! This years lineup just got even more exciting with the addition of State Rep. Caroline Fairly, R-Amarillo; former United States Attorney General Eric Holder; Abby Phillip, anchor of CNN NewsNight; Aaron Reitz, 2026 Republican candidate for Texas Attorney General; and State Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin. Get your tickets today!

TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase.
SPRINGFIELD  As national Democrats continue looking for a message that will resonate with the American public enough to put them back in power, U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Tuesday it could be as simple as: America is too expensive.

Speaking in Illinois state capital about President Donald Trump and GOP funding cuts to public aid and benefit programs, the New York City congressman argued high costs continue to plague average Americans.

Housing costs are too high. Grocery costs are too high. Utility costs are too high. Insurance costs are too high. Child care costs are too high, Jeffries said, flanked by U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski and U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, both of Springfield. America is too expensive. We need to drive down the high cost of living. Donald Trump has failed to do it.

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Before arriving in Springfield, where hes expected to appear Wednesday with Gov. JB Pritzker at the Illinois State Fair, Jeffries hit the same message on MSNBCs Morning Joe. As dozens of Texas Democrats fled their state for Illinois to prevent Republicans from passing a gerrymandered Texas congressional map to gain GOP seats for the midterm elections, Jeffries said the GOP efforts are happening because Republicans dont have any track record of accomplishment that is designed to focus on the American people, to make life better for the American people, to lower costs for the people of Texas and beyond. And so they want to rig the elections to cling on to power.

Jeffries comments come as the midterms have begun to take shape more than six months after Trump took office. On economic issues, Trump has instituted a wide array of tariffs, which have increased some consumer costs and created uncertainty for businesses and the financial markets. In July, the consumer price index, which measures the average change in pricing over time, rose 2.7% over the last year for all urban consumers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

During their event in Springfield, Jeffries, Budzinski and Durbin said massive tax breaks for the wealthy and spending cuts that were cornerstones of Trumps domestic legislation will deprive many Americans of federal health care funding, food assistance and early childhood education programs.

Democrats are committed to fixing a broken health care system and making sure that health care is available to everyday Americans thats affordable and accessible when they need it, Jeffries said. And lastly, we have to clean up corruption in Washington, D.C., and deliver a government that actually works for the people and not for the privileged few.

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Although Democrats are out of power in Washington, Jeffries, who has served in the U.S. House since 2013, said he thinks the party has gained traction since Trump won the White House and Republicans took control of both chambers in Congress. Since then, Jeffries noted a Democratic-backed judge won a coveted seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and he said Trump has become deeply unpopular, following the tax break and spending measure.

There is a reason why Donald Trump has ordered Republicans to engage in mid-decade gerrymandering of the congressional map. Its because he wants to rig the midterm elections, Jeffries said. Republicans are on the run all across America.

Jeffries on Morning Joe also spoke in support of the Texas House Democrats who traveled to the Chicago area and elsewhere to prevent the Texas House from establishing a quorum to vote on a new congressional map pushed by Republicans. Jeffries said the whole saga has shown how voters across the U.S. should be able to choose the people they want to represent them in Washington, as opposed to politicians and party bosses choosing their voters.

The Texas Democrats are standing up for the principle of free and fair elections, Jeffries said. Nothing is more American than that. We are at an all-hands-on-deck moment. And so, I certainly support the principle that we have to utilize every single tool in the toolbox in California, in New York, here in Illinois, from coast to coast.

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The Texas Democrats have been joined by Pritzker and other Democrats in accusing Republicans of kowtowing to Trump, whose administration is encouraging similar actions in other GOP-led states as a means of holding the partys slim majority in the U.S. House in next years midterm elections for the remainder of Trumps second term. They have noted repeatedly that political maps are usually redrawn only once per decade following the U.S. census, and have said Republicans are trying to change the rules and disenfranchise Texas citizens for purely political reasons.

Texas Republicans have countered that the congressional maps in many Democratic states, including Illinois, are gerrymandered. Pritzker has said that Illinois 14-3 Democratic majority congressional map passed legal muster.

As Republicans try to force Democrats back to Texas to vote on the remap, GOP Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and others filed a petition  in what at least one legal expert called long-shot litigation  with a western Illinois court to compel Illinois law enforcement to enforce civil warrants from the Republican Texas House speaker against the Democratic lawmakers who sought refuge in Illinois.

On Tuesday, Jeffries also addressed U.S. Sen. John Cornyns threat from last week of getting the FBI involved in trying to ensure the lawmakers return to Texas  a request from the veteran Texas Republican that he said was granted by the law enforcement agency. Jeffries called Cornyns actions pitiful as hes trying to weaponize the FBI for political purposes at a time when he faces a contentious primary reelection bid against Paxton, who is vying for Cornyns seat.

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Its sad because the senator has (presented) himself for decades as someone of integrity, Jeffries said of Cornyn on Morning Joe. And now that hes in the race of his life and is on his way to losing the Texas Republican primary for his own reelection, he is targeting elected officials who he believes are his adversaries solely for political gain.

The FBI obviously should be focused on doing other things in terms of targeting child predators, terrorists or drug traffickers, not being used as political pawns in a game that (Texas Gov.) Greg Abbott and John Cornyn and Texas Republican Party bosses are trying to utilize for their own political power, Jeffries said on Morning Joe. This is the same principle connected to the fact that you have more than 100 people whove lost their lives in Texas, including dozens of children, tragically in the historic flooding. There is clear evidence that there has been mismanagement or failure to act decisively.
(The Center Square)  Illinois Democrats say their party will win across the United States in 2026, with the Land of Lincoln serving as the blueprint.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker spoke at the Illinois Democratic County Chairs Association brunch Wednesday morning before hosting Governors Day on the Lawn at the Illinois State Fair in the afternoon.

Pritzker said Democrats will win in 2026, and the rest of the country will live out what Illinois is experiencing.

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And what Ill say to those who are wondering whats next for the Democratic Party is this: Shes alive and well and stronger than ever, living right here in the great state of Illinois, Pritzker said.

Lieutenant Gov. Juliana Stratton asked the crowd of people how many of them said they were glad they lived in Illinois, in the midst of chaos coming from Washington.

It is why the country looks at us as an example, because Illinois is the blueprint, Stratton said.

U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, served as guest speaker at the IDCCA brunch.

Jeffries said President Donald Trump promised to lower costs on Day One.

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We have to lower the high cost of living in the United States of America and we need to do it now, Jeffries said.

The New York Democrat said the President is pretending to care about public safety in Washington, D.C.

The biggest crime spree that hurts everyday Americans right now is at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Jeffries said.

Jeffries also called out U.S. House Republicans, including Illinois U.S. Rep. Mary Miller.

Who knew I would miss John Boehner and Paul Ryan so much? Jeffries asked.

Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez welcomed Democrats to the Governors Day afternoon event in Springfield.

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Hernandez called out the states GOP and said Republicans were taking away our food and scapegoating immigrants.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul, wearing an AFL-CIO shirt, told the crowd that President Trump was stealing their money.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recognized several Illinois officials who are not seeking reelection next year: Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and U.S. Reps. Jan Schakowsky and Danny Davis.

Giannoulias also said he could not be more proud that his governor is J.B. Pritzker.

He always fights for the people, Giannoulias said.

Pritzker said Republicans, not Democrats were raising taxes.

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Republicans have raised tariff taxes on the average American family by $2,400 each, Pritzker said.

According to the Illinois Policy Institute, Pritzker has enacted over 50 tax hikes since he took office.

The governor closed with his frequent rallying cry.

Are you ready for the fight? Pritzker asked twice.

Lets go get em everybody. Thank you all for being here today.

Republicans have their rally at the fair Thursday.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Illinois Democrats from all over the state gathered in Springfield on Wednesday for Governors Day.



The day started off with a fundraiser breakfast. Organizers said more than 1,750 tickets were sold for the breakfast.

Governor Pritzker signs Sonya Masseys law

Speakers discussed their accomplishments of the past year and their tactics ahead of the 2026 midterms against the Trump administration and standing up to people affected by Republican policies.



To anyone who is wondering who is going to fight for them, look to your left, and look to your right, Pritzker said.



The keynote speaker of the day is House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.



The biggest crime scene that hurts everyday Americans right now is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Jeffries said.



Other speakers include Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin and former Congresswoman Cheri Bustos.



All three major candidates for U.S. Senator Dick Durbins seat  Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Congresswoman Robin Kelly and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi  also gave speeches.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
A judge in Illinois on Wednesday denied Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons request to enforce civil arrest warrants for the absent Texas House Democrats trying to stop a redistricting effort that could net Republicans five seats in the US House.

Judge Scott Larson of the Eighth Circuit Court of Illinois wrote that his court did not have the jurisdiction to do what Paxton sought  as many Democrats and legal experts predicted when Paxton filed his motion.

As the petitioner has failed to present a legal basis for the court to obtain subject matter jurisdiction over this cause of action, this court is without jurisdiction to grant petitioners emergency motion to rule on pleadings, Larson wrote in an order filed Wednesday. As the court does not find that it has subject matter jurisdiction, this court does not consider the issues of personal jurisdiction, venue or the merits of the underlying petition for rule to show cause or the request to issue a rule to show cause upon the respondents.

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Last week, Paxton asked the Illinois court to enforce civil arrest warrants that were signed by Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows. Dozens of Texas House Democrats have camped out in Illinois as they try to block redistricting from moving forward.

In his order, Larson said the court does not have the inherent power to direct Illinois law enforcement officers, or to allow the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives of the State of Texas, or any officer appointed by her, to execute Texas civil Quorum Warrants upon nonresidents temporarily located in the State of Illinois.

Larson also noted that the civil arrest warrants are geographically limited and directs the sergeant at arms of the Texas House of Representatives to handle any arrests.

A member of the Texas Department of Public Safety stands outside the Texas State Capitol building in Austin, Texas, on August 13, 2025. - Sergio Flores/Reuters

Paxtons legal maneuver in Illinois was one of many pressure tactics the Texas GOP has used to try to get the absent House Democrats back to the state. He filed a similar request in California after several Texas House Democrats appeared in the state with California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

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The Texas Supreme Court this week declined to immediately rule on another maneuver from Paxton and Gov. Greg Abbott to remove from office some of the lawmakers who fled Texas. The court set a September 4 deadline for responses from both sides, suggesting its ruling would be weeks away.

Texas Democrats appear to have stopped the GOP-drawn US House maps from passing in a 30-day special session. Abbott has said he intends to call a new special session on Friday, with Burrows telling lawmakers they should be ready to immediately convene and plan to work through the weekend.

Its unclear how long state House Democrats will stay away from Texas. State Rep. Gene Wu, the House Democratic caucus chair, told reporters in Illinois on Thursday that he felt their walkout had helped inspire California and other Democrat-led states to respond with their own efforts to redraw maps in retaliation to Texas.

When we first started this journey, we talked about the fact that eventually they still might pass these maps  but were going to do everything we can to one, wake up America, to try to reignite the fire that is the American people, for us to fight again for what we believe in and what we want, Wu said.

CNNs David Wright contributed to this report.

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An Illinois judge on Wednesday declined Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons (R) request to hold Texas Democrats who fled there in contempt.

Paxton reached across state lines to seek a ruling that would effectively force the blue state to comply with efforts to arrest the lawmakers and return them to Texas to end their quorum breaking that has blocked Republicans redistricting push.

As the Petitioner has failed to present a legal basis for the court to obtain subject matter jurisdiction over this cause of action, this court is without jurisdiction to grant petitioners emergency motion to rule on pleadings, Judge Scott Larson wrote in a brief order posted on the case docket.

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This court does not find that it has subject matter jurisdiction, this court does not consider the issues of personal jurisdiction, venue or the merits of the underlying petition for rule to show cause or the request to issue a rule to show cause upon the respondents, he continued.

Texas Democrats fled the state earlier this month to deny a quorum as Republican state lawmakers began a special session at President Trumps urging to pass a new House map that would bolster Republicans prospects in the midterms.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has ordered state law enforcement to arrest the lawmakers, but they have evaded it by fleeing to blue states.

Both Abbott and Paxton are asking Texass top court to intervene. But Paxton additionally filed cases alongside state Speaker Dustin Burrows (R) in Illinois and California, asking state judges there to hold Democrats in contempt. The California judge has not yet ruled.

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This Court must give full faith and credit to warrants duly issued by the Texas House of Representatives that compel these civil servants to return to Texas and to their civic responsibilities, the Illinois petition reads.

It was filed in Adams County, a conservative-leaning area that includes the city of Quincy and is Illinoiss westernmost county.

THe Hill has reached out to spokespeople for Paxton and Burrows for comment.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  It has been a tough year for Head Start.

On top of funding freezes, in April, a leaked memo showed the Trump administration was considering cutting the program entirely.

It has been extremely challenging to work through some of those things and also making sure that our staff and our community feel supported, Marcus Johnson, President and CEO of Springfield Urban League, said.

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U of I food assistance program shutting down after federal SNAP funding pulled

On Tuesday, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries joined Illinois lawmakers Nikki Budzinski and Dick Durbin for a round table discussion with families and educators on what cuts to SNAP benefits would mean for the kids they serve.

One of their top concerns was how SNAP benefits are tied to Head Start programs.

A Biden era rule mandated if a child qualifies for SNAP benefits then they would also automatically qualify for Head Start. Less kids qualifying for SNAP could translate into less kids in Head Start programs.

We need to restore the cuts that Donald Trump and Republicans have jammed down the throats of the American people that will hurt everyday Americans here in Illinois, Jeffries said.

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The lower enrollment could eventually translate into lower budgets for Head Start as well.

That is because in 2018, the federal Head Start Office introduced its full enrollment initiative.

Illinois residents worried about food assistance being cut in a SNAP

The rule states that any provider who was chronically below 97% enrollment could see its funding reduced.

I think they are looking for ways to pay for tax cuts for some of the richest people and there are doing that on the backs of our most vulnerable families, Budzinski said.

On top of SNAP cuts, a new directive from the Trump administration to not enroll undocumented children in Head Start could make it even harder for providers to keep enrollment up, and along with it, their funding.

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Instead of investing in what works, this administration hasnt just turned its back on those families. It is actively working against them, Budzinski said.

The Trump administration has announced it will delay the enforcement of its new Head Start qualifications until Sept. 11.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
ST. LOUIS  An arrest warrant has been issued for a Shiloh, Illinois, man for a high-speed chase that began on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River and ended in north St. Louis.

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Departments probable cause statement, the chase happened on March 24 and began in Granite City, Illinois.

Police said Michael Avery, 34, crossed the McKinley Bridge into St. Louis City and drove north.

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I actually still have goosebumps: Family of 3-year-old who died at daycare reacts to charges

Avery spun his vehicle around at North Broadway and Calvary Avenue to face pursuing officers. Police said he rammed through police vehicles and escaped.

Averys vehicle was later found abandoned, with his fingerprints and ID inside. Police said Avery had run from the scene, but officers were able to identify him in a photo lineup.

The St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office charged Avery with first-degree assault, armed criminal action, and leaving the scene of an accident. The warrant stipulates Avery be held without bond.

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO)  Illinois students returning to school this year will be evaluated under a new testing system, which lowers proficiency standards and is aimed at addressing high delinquency rates.

The new testing system, which has been in development for over a year, will lower what counts as proficient in the classroom and cover standardized testing from grades three through 12.

Education officials noted that Illinois previously had some of the most rigorous proficiency standards in the country, which led to poor performance on the annual Illinois Report Card.

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According to the Illinois Policy Institute, among students in third through eighth grade, only 41% could read at grade level and just 28% were proficient in math in 2024. Proficiency dropped farther by 11th grade, with only 31% of 11th graders reading at grade level and only 26% performing math proficiently.

Officials hope that the new system will better evaluate students and more accurately assess their performance across the state.

State Supt. of Education, Tony Sanders said changes are expected to provide a more accurate reflection of student abilities and help address the issues highlighted by the previous systems standards.

As currently designed, our proficiency rates do not reflect the reality of student progress. Theyre misaligned with what it actually means to succeed in college and career, Sanders told the Chicago Sun-Times. Students are being denied opportunities for acceleration, misidentified as needing intervention or believing that theyre not ready to go into college.

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Officials want scores for English language and math proficiency to be lowered, but science proficiency benchmarks to be raised.

Sanders said the current scoring method discourages high school students by allowing them to believe they are not ready for college.

According to the Illinois Policy Institute, year-over-year enrollment at Illinois public schools has dropped 13 times during the past 15 years, and schools have 177,000 fewer students than they did 10 years ago.

Despite that, the education budget has ballooned nearly $4 billion to a record high $11.2 billion for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

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UPDATE on 8/13 at 11:03 a.m.

FORD COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA)  State Police clarified that the investigation in Sibley Tuesday night was in response to a report of a person walking through fields in the area.

Wednesday morning, State Police confirmed with WCIA that officers responded to the area of IL-165 near the McLean/Ford County line just after 7 p.m. after they received the report. They then searched the area for several hours, but no one was located.

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There is no further information available at this time.

FORD COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA)  Members of the public are being asked to avoid IL-165 in the Sibley area as law enforcement conduct an investigation.

The Illinois State Police said they, along with multiple local agencies are responding in Sibley, near the McLean and Ford County line. State Police said members of the public should also be aware of potential road closures in the area.

Illinois State Police seeking tips on man wanted in connection to Gibson City shooting

A WCIA reporter on the scene said a dozen or more law enforcement vehicles are on the scene. County Road 1200 and 1300 N. are closed, a WCIA reporter said. A soybean field and corn field are surrounded, but WCIA has been unable to confirm who they are looking for at this time.

WCIA has reached out to State Police to learn more and is waiting to hear back.

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This is a developing story.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
ILLINOIS (WCIA)  Soon enough, the familiar sight of yellow school buses will fill the road, and kids will be back in school. Because of this, the Illinois State Police said there are a few things drivers should remember about school zone speed laws and bus safety.

State Police said drivers are required to slow down in school zones. The speed limit of a school zone is 20 miles per hour, and its in effect from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. State Police also reminded drivers that talking or texting on a device is not allowed  and fines are increased in a school zone.

American Red Cross issues safety checklist as Central IL students head back to school

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Parents and guardians should teach their children safe walking habits. This includes:

Using sidewalks

Crossing at the crosswalk

Not walking in-between cars

Illinois State Police hope these tips keep kids safe, but there are also several things drivers should remember, to do their own part.

State Police said that when a child is injured or killed around the bus, it often happens when a driver fails to stop for the flashing red lights and extended stop arm. To prevent this from happening, State Police said drivers who are approaching a stopped bus with its lights and arm activated need to stop at least 20 feet before reaching the bus.

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An exception to this rule is when a school bus stops on a roadway with four or more lanes. State Police said in this scenario, only those traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop.

Central Illinois schools introducing phone-free environment

If you are approaching a stopped school bus at a railroad crossing from the opposite direction, State Police said you may pass them. But, if you are approaching them from the same direction and are within 100 feet from the railroad crossing, you are not allowed pass the bus.

A first time violation for failing to stop for a school bus with its light activated and arm extended could lead to a $300 fine and a three-month driving suspension. To learn more safety information from the Illinois State Police, click here.

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Illinois students could be held to new standards for school testing, a shift the state school board says will better prepare them for college and postsecondary education careers while accurately measuring performance levels.

The Illinois State Board of Education announced proposed changes to state standardized testing Tuesday  including the ACT, the Illinois Assessment of Readiness and the Illinois Science Assessment  that would create consistent measures of student performance on all state exams and make it easier to understand and track students progress. It would also adjust the proficiency threshold for each exam section based on grade level, determining the minimum score a student must achieve to be considered on track for their grade level in learning.

There are three major exams that Illinois students take while in school: The Illinois Assessment of Readiness is administered to students in grades three through eight each year to test their skills in English language arts and math, while the Illinois Science Assessment is only administered to students in fifth and eighth grades. Students take the PreACT in ninth and 10th grade and the ACT in 11th grade.

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Currently, the three exams do not use the same levels or benchmarks to assess student learning based on their exam scores. The current testing measurements have multiple performance levels for students to be sorted into, which are categories of score ranges on the state assessment.

The varied scores from test to test can create confusion for parents and students due to the lack of consistency, Illinois State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders said at a Tuesday media briefing.

The change will allow the board to alleviate this confusion with a proposed new uniform scoring system on each test: below proficient, approaching proficient, proficient and above proficient.

While the Illinois Science Assessment evaluates students in four levels  emerging, developing, proficient and exemplary  the Illinois Assessment of Readiness places students into five categories based on their scores: does not meet (expectations), partially meets, approaching meets, meets expectations and exceeds expectations.

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A student is considered proficient when they are on track for their grade level in learning, and a proficiency benchmark is the score a student needs to be on track in their grade. The state determines these benchmarks.

According to the board, there is currently a mismatch between proficiency thresholds in the different sections of exams  English language arts, science and math. The threshold for proficiency in science according to a students exam score is too low, while the proficiency threshold for a student in English language arts and math is too high.

This resulted in students excelling in class but not reaching the proficiency mark on exams, which can lead to discouragement in students when they think about their future options postgraduation, Sanders said. He gave the example of multiple former students, now in college, who excelled in advanced placement classes and had high GPAs but did not receive proficient scores on state standardized tests.

If they had listened to us, they might not have enrolled in college. Maybe they wouldnt even have enrolled in dual credit (classes) while they were still in high school, Sanders said.  Thankfully, they didnt listen to what these cut scores told them and instead pursued these higher opportunities. But think about the kids that did not.

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That all three required standardized tests  the ACT, Illinois Assessment of Readiness and Illinois Science Assessment  have different benchmarks for proficiency creates a sense of inconsistency and does not accurately reflect a students level of college or career readiness, Sanders said.

Theyre misaligned with what it actually means to succeed in college and career, Sanders said. This misalignment has serious, real-world consequences. Students are being denied opportunities for acceleration, misidentified as needing interventions or believing, as I said earlier, that theyre not ready to go into college.

This discrepancy in results can be confusing for families and students trying to determine readiness levels for classes, college or careers, especially when they do well in school but do not meet the states level of proficiency. The new measurements aim to change that, Sanders said. For English language arts in the Illinois Assessment of Readiness, the proficiency threshold would be lowered from 750 to 735, increasing by two points each grade until they take the exam for the last time in grade eight.

The proficiency threshold for math on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness would also be lowered from 750 to 732. The proficiency levels for the math section would rise to 740 for grades four and five, 742 for grade six, and 745 for grades seven and eight.

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As for the Illinois Science Assessment, which is administered only to fifth and eighth graders, students will have to increase their scores to 812 to be considered proficient. The current proficiency score is 799.

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The changes to the performance measures were initially put into motion last year when the ACT became a state-mandated exam to measure high school performance. This shift required the establishment of new performance standards for high schools.

For students in grade nine taking the PreACT, an English language arts section score of 14 is proficient, while a math section score of 17 and a science section score of 14 meet proficiency standards. There are no prior proficiency levels to measure the proposed scores against because the state switched to the ACT this spring, the board said.

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For grade 10 students, a PreACT English language arts section score of 15, a math section score of 18 and a science section score of 16 would be proficient.

Additionally, the proposed changes aim to align students taking the ACT in their junior year of high school with the scores necessary to get into college, pass college coursework and succeed in the workforce, the board said. The ACT is scored out of 36 and has an English language arts, math and science section. The new proficiency scores would be an English language arts score of 18, a math score of 19 and a science score of 19.

The board spoke with educators, community members, student leaders and policy makers over an 18-month period to create new rubrics describing the range of performance expected in each performance level. Educators also took the exams to evaluate their difficulty and help determine what are known as cut scores  the scores that differentiate one performance level from another, such as proficient from above proficient.

While two-thirds of Illinois high school graduates go on to enroll in a two- or four-year college within a year of graduating, the current state assessment levels indicate that less than half that number of students are proficient in English language arts, and an even smaller number are proficient in math.

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The updated proficiency standards and performance levels help capture the full spectrum of skills students are developing, CPS sixth grade teacher Comfort Agboola said at the meeting.

(The standards) acknowledge growth in ways that can motivate rather than discourage, Agboola said. When students believe they are proficient or see themselves as getting closer, they are more willing to take risks, engage deeply with challenging text and push themselves further than they thought was possible.

Scott Rowe, superintendent of High School District 214 in the Arlington Heights area, added at the meeting that these changes would help accurately reflect a students readiness and allow school districts to know where more support might be needed.

Past benchmarks often miss the mark, but this step moves us closer to measuring real performance and readiness, Rowe said. It also tells a more accurate story of the high quality instruction and postsecondary readiness our teachers are delivering for our communities across the state.
The Brief

A 30-year-old Beach Park woman was arrested after investigators say she sold cocaine, including near a middle school.

Undercover detectives made multiple controlled buys, two within 500 feet of a Waukegan middle school.

She faces six felony charges and remains in custody pending a court hearing.

LAKE COUNTY, Ill. - A Beach Park woman is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say she sold cocaine near a Waukegan middle school.

What we know

The Lake County Sheriffs Office Special Investigations Group (SIG) began investigating Karla L. Rangel-Tirado, 30, earlier this year.

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Detectives say they made multiple undercover purchases of cocaine from her, with two of the deals happening within 500 feet of a middle school in Waukegan.

Karla L. Rangel-Tirado | LCSO

Rangel-Tirado was arrested during a traffic stop on Monday. She is charged with:

Two counts of delivery of a controlled substance within 500 feet of a school (Class X felonies)

Two counts of delivery of a controlled substance (Class 1 felonies)

Two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance (Class 4 felonies)

What they're saying

"Whether its a large-scale trafficking operation or an individual dealer targeting our communities, our Special Investigations Group is committed to disrupting the sale of dangerous drugs," Sheriff John D. Idleburg said in a statement. "Selling cocaine near a school is especially egregious, and I commend our detectives for their diligent work to keep our neighborhoods safe."

What's next

Rangel-Tirado remains in the Lake County Jail awaiting an initial court hearing.

The Source

The information in this article was provided by the Lake County Sheriff's Office.
WINDSOR, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  Windsor Central School District is getting campers ready to become students.

The three elementary schools within the district are all holding Kindergarten Camps to familiarize kids with their soon-to-be schools.

Palmer Elementary held its camp both yesterday and today. Bell and Weeks Elementary schools have theirs today and tomorrow.

The camp is two days at each school, with the campers split into two groups so every camper gets to spend a couple hours at their future school to get acclimated with the classroom, cafeteria and playground. The campers also got to sign a letter of intent to start Kindergarten, which Floyd Bell teacher Randi Silvernail says was a highlight of the camp.

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Kindergarten Teacher Randi Silvernail says, Its very exciting, just like you would see with a college signing. You know, theyre committing to be a Windsor Black Knight and a Floyd Bell Buddy. So it makes it official, and its very exciting for them..

Students were very excited to make it official and they participated in other fun activities with their future classmates.

Bell Elementarys camp theme was lets go camping with a tent in one of the classrooms for students to read books with a flashlight and sit around a campfire to get to know each other.

Silvernail says she could see students get more comfortable as the day went on, preparing them well for the first day of school on September 3rd.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
An increase in visitors from France to Guernsey has been hailed a "definite success story" by tourism bosses.

Figures from the States of Guernsey revealed 12,000 French day-trippers visited the island in Q2 of 2025 - up from 7,000 in the same quarter last year.

Hannah Beacom, chairman of the Tourism Management Board, said it welcomed the "significant rise" in visitors from France.

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Alan Sillett, president of Guernsey Hospitality Association, said: "The large increase of visitors from France is a definite success story."

The data provides information and statistics on travellers into and out of the island, as well as the accommodation they stayed at during their visit.

The rise in French travellers was in part attributed to the appointment of Brittany Ferries to provide travel between the island, the UK and France until 2040.

Ms Beacom added: "I've personally noticed a far greater prevalence in French being spoken around St Peter Port and in other tourism hotspots within the island, which is wonderful to hear as we continue to build stronger ties with our French neighbours."

'Look to future'

Mr Sillet said the data showed an increase in yacht arrivals which was "good to see" but the cruise ship visitor numbers "continue to disappoint".

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He added a drop in leisure visitors was concerning but there was a strong indicator of visitor satisfaction among the figures.

"So overall, a mixed set of stats that give us some reasons to be cheerful but also highlights areas that need attention," he said.

"If we can move forwards with a growth strategy at the airport we will be able to look to the future with... optimism."

Last week, bosses at Guernsey Airport announced plans to redevelop the site and "improve operational efficiency".

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.

More on this story

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO/AP)  Geographically, India and South Dakota have some distance between them. But international business can make partners of communities on opposite sides of the globe.

We know of certain technologies which India can bring to the region, particularly in ag tech, Prakash Gupta said Tuesday. We are also a very large, farmer-driven country, so I think ag tech is one area where we can contribute to South Dakota.

Gupta is consul general of the consulate general of India in Seattle, which serves several states including Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota. He is in Sioux Falls participating as a panelist at Wednesdays Midwest Agricultural Export Summit.

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Showcasing the opportunities that India offers to South Dakota, hoping that as soon as possible we can get a trade mission from South Dakota to visit India, Gupta said.

Ahead of his participation in that summit, he brings up popular goods for which South Dakotans have to look beyond their states borders.

In the ag space itself, we would like to bring in some nice Indian coffee to South Dakota, Gupta said. We would like to bring in some Indian mangoes.

U.S. President Donald Trump put an extra 25% tariff on India on Aug. 6, which makes for combined tariffs of 50%. But for his part, Gupta is not sharing any frustration or alarm.

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I am very confident that the negotiators of the two sides who are leading the trade talks would do both their countries the desired outcomes that are needed in terms of meeting a minimum common ground, Gupta said.

While Gupta is originally from India, he now lives in the Seattle area. The Midwest Agricultural Export Summit of which hell be a part is scheduled for Wednesday in Sioux Falls.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
"Are you a chemistry professor?" the judge asked.

"Yes," Mamta Pathak replied, clasping her hand in a respectful namaste.

Draped in a white sari, glasses perched on her nose, the retired college teacher stood before two judges in a courtroom in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, speaking as if delivering a forensic chemistry lecture.

"In the post-mortem," she argued, her voice trembling but composed, "it is not possible to differentiate between a thermal burn and an electric burn mark without proper chemical analysis."

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Across the bench, Justice Vivek Agarwal reminded her, "The doctor who conducted the post-mortem said there were clear signs of electrocution."

It was a rare, almost surreal moment - a 63-year-old woman, accused of murdering her husband by electrocution, explaining to the court how acids and tissue reactions revealed the nature of a burn.

The exchange, caught on video during her April hearing, went viral in India and stunned the internet. But in the court, no amount of expert-like confidence could undo the prosecution's case - a spouse murdered and a motive rooted in suspicion and marital discord.

Last month the High Court dismissed Mamta Pathak's appeal and upheld her life sentence for the April 2021 murder of her husband, Neeraj Pathak, a retired physician.

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While Pathak mounted a spirited, self-argued defence - invoking gaps in the autopsy, the insulation of the house, and even an electrochemical theory - the court found the circumstantial evidence conclusive: she had drugged her husband with sleeping pills and then electrocuted him.

In court, Mamta, a mother of two, had peered over a stack of overflowing case files, leafing through them before she grew animated.

"Sir, electric burn marks can't be distinguished as ante-mortem [before death] or post-mortem [after death]," she argued quoting from a forensics book.

"How did they [doctors] write it was an electric burn mark in post-mortem [report]?".

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Microscopically, electrical burns look the same before and after death, making standard examination inconclusive, say experts. A close study of dermal changes may reveal whether a burn was ante- or post-mortem, according to one paper.

The courtroom video of Mamta Pathak arguing her case in the high court went viral [BBC]

An impromptu exchange on chemical reactions followed, with the judge probing her on laboratory processes. Mamta spoke about different acids, explaining that distinctions could be made using an electron microscope - something not possible in a post-mortem room. She tried to walk the judge through electron microscopy and different acids. Three women lawyers in the background smiled.

Mamta ploughed on - she said she had been studying law in prison for a year. Flipping through her tabbed files with stickers and quoting from forensic medicine books, she pointed to alleged gaps in the investigation - from the unexamined crime scene to the absence of qualified electrical and forensic experts at the scene of the crime.

"Our house was insured from 2017 to 2022, and inspections confirmed it was protected against electrical fire," she said.

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Mamta told the court that her husband had high blood pressure and heart disease. She stated the actual cause of death was narrowing and "calcification of his coronary arteries due to old age". She also suggested he may have slipped and sustained a hematoma, but no CT scan was conducted to confirm this.

Neeraj Pathak, 65, had been found dead at the family home on 29 April 2021. The autopsy ruled electrocution as the cause of death. Days later, Mamta had been arrested and charged with murder.

Police had seized an 11-meter electric wire with a two-pin plug, and CCTV footage from the couple's house. Six tablets of a sleeping pill were recovered in a strip of 10.

The postmortem report cited cardiorespiratory shock from electrical current at multiple sites as the cause of death, occurring 36 to 72 hours before the autopsy conducted on 1 May.

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"But they didn't find my fingerprints on the strip of tablets," Mamta told the judges.

But her arguments quickly unravelled, leaving Judges Agarwal and Devnarayan Sinha unconvinced.

For nearly four decades, Mamta and Neeraj Pathak had lived a seemingly orderly middle-class life in Chhatarpur - a drought-prone district of Madhya Pradesh known for its farms, granite quarries, and small businesses.

She taught chemistry at the local government college; he was the chief medical officer at the district hospital. They raised two sons - one settled abroad, the other, sharing a home with his mother. Neeraj retired voluntarily in 2019 after 39 years as a government doctor and then opened a private clinic at home.

Mamta Pathak taught chemistry at a government college for 36 years [BBC]

The incident happened during the pandemic. Neeraj was showing Covid symptoms and kept to the first floor. Mamta and her son, Nitish, stayed downstairs. Two staircases from the ground floor linked Neeraj's rooms to the open gallery and waiting hall of his private clinic, where half a dozen staff bustled between the lab and the medical store.

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The 97-page judgment stated that Mamta reported finding her husband Neeraj unresponsive in his bed on 29 April, but did not inform a doctor or the police until 1 May. Instead, she took her elder son to Jhansi - over 130km away - without clear reason, according to the driver, and returned the same evening. She claimed ignorance about how he died when she finally alerted the police.

Beneath this silence lay a troubled marriage. The judges highlighted longstanding marital discord, with the couple living apart and Mamta suspecting her husband of infidelity.

On the morning of the day he died,, Neeraj had called an associate, alleging that Mamta was "torturing him," locking him in a bathroom, withholding food for days, and causing physical injuries. He also accused her of taking cash, ATM cards, vehicle keys, and bank fixed deposit documents. Pleading for help, Neeraj's son contacted a friend who alerted the police, who then rescued the retired doctor from what was described as "Mamta's custody".

The couple had even lived apart in recent times, adding weight to the court's doubts.

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Mamta had told the court she was the "best mother," presenting a birthday card from her children as proof. She also showed photos of herself feeding her husband and snapshots with family.

Yet, the judges were unmoved. They noted that such tokens of affection didn't erase motive - after all, a "doting mother" can also be a "suspicious wife," they said.

Fifty minutes into her deposition, after parrying questions and defending herself against the court's doubts, Mamta's composure faltered for the first time.

"I know one thing I did not kill him," she said, her voice trailing off.

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At another moment, she confessed, "I can't take this very much more."

Trying to ease the tension, Judge Agarwal remarked, "You must be used to this you must be taking classes for 50 minutes in college."

"Forty minutes, sir. But they are small children," Mamta said.

"Small children in college? But your designation is assistant professor," the judge pressed.

"But they are kids, sir," she replied.

"Don't tell us such stories," Judge Agarwal interrupted sharply.

Mamta fought not just as a defendant, but as a teacher turning the courtroom into a chemistry lab - hoping to prove her innocence through science. Yet in the end, the cold facts proved stronger than her lessons.
Pennsylvania State Police are asking for help identifying men suspected of stealing money from a skills game machine in Indiana County.

Troopers say the incident happened on April 10 at a BP gas station on Washington Street in Saltsburg. They say one suspect distracted the cashier while the other broke into a skills game machine, stealing an unknown amount of money.

The suspects are described as Black men who arrived in a silver or gray Chrysler 300 sedan.

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Anyone with information about this theft is asked to contact Trooper Rutkowski at 724-357-1960.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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A federal appeals court has ruled in favor of two medically fragile children from Indiana and their families who are fighting changes made by the state Family and Social Services Administration to a Medicaid waiver program.

Indiana Disability Rights and the ACLU of Indiana filed a lawsuit last May alleging that the state's changes to its Health and Wellness Medicaid Waiver program, which impacted parents who were providing paid care to medically complex children, went against the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals on Aug. 11 affirmed a district court's prior preliminary injunction in favor of the families who sued.

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"As the district court concluded, plaintiffs have a high likelihood of succeeding on the merits of their ADA claims," according to the 50-page opinion. "Further, we find no abuse of discretion in the district court's balancing of the equities or its assessment that the public interest is best served by preserving plaintiffs' access to medically necessary care and enforcing federal antidiscrimination law."

The decision doesn't apply to the whole state. It means that, for now, the two families can continue to serve as paid providers of "attendant care" for their children, according to a press release from the ACLU.

Indiana Disability Rights said in a statement that the court's decision recognized the likelihood that parents would have to make an "unthinkable" decision of placing their child in an institution.

This decision reinforces the understanding that children with complex medical needs are best served when they can remain at home with their families," said Sam Adams, senior attorney for Indiana Disability Rights. "The court found that there are steps that FSSA can and must take to help ensure these children remain safely in their families homes.

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The lawsuit stems back to the state Medicaid office's discovery in late 2023 that there was a nearly $1 billion budget shortfall, leading it to seek cost-cutting measures. The agency decided it would no longer pay for parents or spouses to care for elderly or disabled loved ones, which is the program referred to as "attendant care."

FSSA later moved to a new model that pays service providers a flat daily rate and passes on some of that money to families who care for people. But the new model amounts to a steep pay cut, according to those families.

The appeals court decision was, at times, scathing toward the state's arguments in the case.

"To state FSSA's argument is to refute it," the decision reads at one point.

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At another point, the opinion states that the state has "offered only doomsday predictions" that are "difficult to reconcile with the state's apparent willingness to spend the same amount of money or more on other home-based services or to institutionalize plaintiffs and other waiver enrollees."

The FSSA didn't immediately reply to IndyStar's request for comment about the impact of the federal court decision.

Contact senior government accountability reporter Hayleigh Colombo at hcolombo@indystar.com.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Federal appeals court rules in favor of families fighting FSSA Medicaid change
An anti-redistricting rally attracted hundreds to the Indiana Statehouse on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Casey Smith/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Optically horrible. A hard no. In bad form.

Hoosier leaders might be busy taking behind-the-scenes feedback on the prospect of early redistricting, but rank-and-file Republicans are increasingly going public with their opposition.

Statehouse lawmakers redraw districts after each decennial census. They last did so in 2021, and population data shows little change since then.

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Indiana Democrats, meanwhile, are joining forces with their Texan counterparts to protest the move, just days after they led hundreds of Hoosiers in a rally to oppose early redistricting.

President Donald Trump is pushing Texas and other GOP-led states like Indiana to redistrict ahead of the 2026 midterm elections to ensure a Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives for the rest of his second term.

I think it's bad form, I think it's inadvisable. It's probably contrary to Indiana law, and I've expressed my reservation about it to some of our elected leadership.

 Former GOP Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma

On one hand, we feel unlikely as a candidate to approach redistricting. Weve got seven out of our nine congressional districts (that) are solidly Republican, said Laura Merrifield Wilson, a political science professor at the University of Indianapolis.  You would think you would go after states where you get more than one.

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Democratic U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan holds the states most competitive congressional district, located in northwest Indiana. The heavily Democratic, Indianapolis district held by Rep. Andre Carson would be a tougher flip.

But, Wilson said, that GOP strength is also what makes Indiana an appealing target from the federal perspective: a very amenable, very friendly executive in Gov. Mike Braun and legislative supermajorities in both of the Statehouses chambers.

Youre looking at a state where you could reasonably get the support you need, she added.

Thats if lawmakers actually want to do it.

Rank-and-file Republicans speak out

Gov. Mike Braun has stayed noncommittal on the possibility hed call a special session for early redistricting. The next legislative session is set to organize for only one day in late November before coming back in January  possibly too late to finalize maps by February candidate filing deadlines.

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Instead, Braun is looking to Texas  and Indianas own lawmakers.

The Indiana General Assembly has complete control in redrawing district lines. Theres no nonpartisan commission. A gubernatorial veto can be overturned with simple majority votes.

House Speaker Todd Huston and Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray, who lead Republican supermajorities in the states House and Senate, havent yet made their stances clear. But members are.

Multiple have described themselves as a hard no, including Reps. Danny Lopez of Carmel and Jim Lucas of Seymour.

Just a few years ago, our General Assembly undertook the complex redistricting process based on up-to-date census data, drawing fair maps that ensure every Hoosier vote counts, Lopez, who took office last year, wrote on X. We should stand by that work.

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Lucas called the possibility highly unusual and politically optically horrible.

I dont believe Republicans should stoop to the level of Democrats on this issue. Republicans hold about 90% of all local offices statewide and once the voter rolls get purged of illegals, we will hold an even more commanding lead, he wrote on Facebook. Democrats cant compete with their Socialist policies and ideology and if there are seats that need targeted, we should do it the old fashioned way and campaign harder in those districts.

Mooresville Rep. Craig Haggard emphasized that Indiana is a solid Republican state that has gone for Trump three times in a Monday statement to the Capital Chronicle. He added that hes been hearing from constituents and I do not believe at this time there is an appetite for redistricting in our communities.

Indianas congressional district boundaries.

WEHT reported that Wadesville Sen. Jim Tomes doesnt think redistricting is needed right now because the lines are fairly drawn. He similarly noted the GOP is in good shape for the midterms.

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Wilson believes the risks are more severe for GOP legislators as opposed to Braun.

They dont want to be seen as anti-Trump, she said, but are maybe most vulnerable (to) the criticism since theyd be handling any redistricting legislation  and attaching their names to it.

Former GOP House Speaker Brian Bosma is glad lawmakers are speaking up.

He oversaw the 2011 redistricting that involved hearing from constituents in nine different cities before crafting new maps, and was in the General Assembly through three redistricting cycles in all. He recalled how, as a brand-new floor leader in 1995, he resisted efforts to redraw Statehouse districts early.

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I think its bad form, I think its inadvisable. Its probably contrary to Indiana law, and Ive expressed my reservation about it to some of our elected leadership, Bosma said. The leaders Ive talked to, and Ive talked to the top down, are not thrilled about this prospect but because other states are expressing support for this, theres pressure to do it.

Democrats push to prevent

Across the aisle, meanwhile, Democrats hope to sway public opinion against early redistricting.

Members of the Indiana House Democratic Caucus are joining forces with their Texan counterparts to host a news conference in Illinois on Wednesday. Texas House Democrats fled the Lone Star State to block redistricting legislation there.

Together, the two House Caucuses will explain the serious danger mid-term redistricting plans pose to the legitimacy of our democracy, a news release said. Democrats in Texas and Indiana will continue to stand up and reject Trumps demands to rig an election.

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The Indiana Democratic Party has also been active.

Former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke of Texas drew hundreds to an Indianapolis town hall last Sunday, while hundreds more attended a Statehouse protest on Thursday that was headlined by Mrvan, Carson, and an array of state-level Democratic lawmakers.

Indiana Democratic Party Chair Karen Tallian noted both events were organized with a couple days notice. She hopes to keep that momentum going, and didnt rule out the possibility of more rallies.

Indiana Democratic Party Chairwoman Karen Tallian. (Provided photo)

We need public outrage and pressure before they ever make the decision that theyre going to call a special session, she told the Capital Chronicle. If you could prevent them from calling a special session,  thats the best possible solution.

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Tallian, who served more than 15 years in Indianas Senate, maintains the current districts already offer Republicans outsized benefits, arguing the seven-two congressional split doesnt reflect the Indiana electorate.

Voters generally went about 60%-40% in favor of statewide Republicans in the 2024 election.

How greedy can you get? Oh, theyve got two. We want all of them,' she said of the GOP.

Tallian said Democrats considered suing over redistricting in 2011 and 2021.

Frankly, Im still hoping that we can bring a gerrymandering lawsuit based on their current maps, she said. And now they want to come and do it again? Its just, its outrageous.

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The Indiana Republican Party didnt reply to multiple requests for comment on potential early redistricting.

Demographic change a factor

Some are open to the idea.

Northwest Indiana, theres a lot of people migrating there from the state of Illinois. Its kind of the first stop over the border from Chicago, (a) good conservative state like Indiana, Fort Wayne Rep. Bob Morris told WOWO last week.

If we have an issue there, were going to have to get another, you know, essentially a census done in the state of Indiana by an independent source to see where the numbers are at, he continued.

Mrvans 1st Congressional District includes Lake and Porter counties, as well as some of LaPorte County. The trio collectively grew by an estimated 5,824 people  less than 1%  between April 2020 and July 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Indiana, as a whole, added an estimated 137,688 people  almost 2%.

Theres nothing to lead  me to believe, at least, that things would have changed so dramatically that the congressional districts are not adequately representing their constituents, and at the end of the day, thats why redistricting matters, Wilson said.

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She called Indianas current congressional maps sufficient  not very competitive, but relatively compact and homogenous.

Wilson said any changes should be recorded and addressed via data from the next census.

Every 10 years we do this  whether its going to be good for you or bad for you, whether you want to or you dont, she added.  Changing that mechanism means in the future, theres no precedent. You can say, Well  we want to redraw this right this moment.

Some fear an effort to flip seats could backfire.

You can spread out your Republican vote a little too thin so that every few cycles, seats are going back and forth, U.S. Sen. Todd Young of Indiana told Punchbowl News last month. And that can sort of cut both ways.

Others predict squigglier lines.

Bosma said efforts to capture blue districts could undo progress the GOP made in other cycles to make the districts more compact and keep political subdivisions  counties, towns, cities, school districts, fire districts and more  intact when possible.

Map-drawers could divvy up northwest Indiana and put Mrvan at risk, he said. They could run fingers into the center of the city of Indianapolis to take aim at Carson.

But  it would not look right, and youd have to do some pretty serious tap dancing to make it even remotely reasonable, he said of the 7th District.

Marjorie Hershey, an emeritus political science professor at Indiana University, said its tempting to look at the early redistricting fight as a strategic matter of whos winning and whos losing.

She encouraged a broader view.

Democracy is not self-enforcing. It never has been, Hershey said. Democracies do fail, they do die, and we have to take seriously the possibility that that could happen here. Each step has a tendency to make the next step not look quite so bad or quite so distant.

Senior Reporter Casey Smith contributed.

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Nine Indiana House Democrats joined Texas House Democrats in Chicago Wednesday to stand against mid-decade redistricting of congressional districts  which Texas Democrats are currently fighting against and Indiana Democrats could be fighting next.

Indiana Black Legislative Caucus Chair State Rep. Earl Harris Jr., D-East Chicago, said he was elected to serve his constituents not to help a guy in Washington D.C. The move to redistrict mid-decade will disenfranchise voters, particularly minority voters, Harris said.

Indiana District 1, held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, could be considered for redistricting if Indiana Republicans choose to do so, Harris said. District 1 has a large population of minority voters, Harris said, whose voices would be stifled.

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Why are we disenfranchising voters  Black and brown voters  who chose the person we want to represent us? We need to stand here and fight, be here in this fight, Harris said.

Texas State Rep. Gene Wu said the state Democratic House Caucus left the state to stop a racist, unconstitutional and illegal gerrymandering effort in Texas. Gerrymandering refers to politicians manipulating the boundaries of an electoral map in their partys favor.

Texas Democratic lawmakers are in Illinois for a second week as Republicans are trying to reconvene the state legislature in a special session to vote on redrawing congressional maps in their partys favor.

Redistricting occurs every 10 years following the release of census data. But the Trump administration has been pressuring states, most notably Texas, to redistrict ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

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(Were) stopping the D.C. swamp from dictating who we get to vote for. This is an effort to stifle Americans who have had enough because Republicans know that their agenda and what they have done is so unpopular  with all Americans, Wu said. They need to cheat and rig the system so they can rig the system.

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor, D-Indianapolis, said she was proud to stand with her Texas colleagues to protect our democracy.

While Texas is on the front lines of this fight, Indiana may be next in line, Pryor said.

Last week, Vice President JD Vance met with Gov. Mike Braun and state Republican leaders to discuss redistricting in Indiana. After the meeting, Mrvan said during a news conference that the Trump administration brought the circus of redistricting to Indiana and that he believed the decision to redistrict Indiana was a done deal.

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JD Vance and Donald Trump brought the circus to Indianapolis, Mrvan, D-Highland, said. They are afraid of checks and balances. They are afraid of the polling that they see, and they want to redistrict things.

State Rep. Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis, said Vance is engaged in Congressional-level shoplifting.

Never in my life did I think that the vice president of the United States would come to my state and ask our legislature to shoplift for Congressional districts  steal them off the shelf, run outside and wave them in front of the country, DeLaney said.

On Tuesday, Braun told the Indiana Capitol Chronicle that he hasnt decided if hell call a special session on redistricting Indianas congressional map, but that he and Republican legislative leaders are considering it seriously as they watch what happens in Texas.

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Itll be interesting to see what Texas does because they dont have a supermajority, so  if that gets tripped up, its gonna probably impact what happens elsewhere, because the rest of it doesnt add up to much, he told the Capital Chronicle on Tuesday.

I think mostly what happens here is going to depend on where Texas goes, because I think theyve got five seats in play, he said.

Indiana was last redistricted in 2021, which left Congressional Republicans with seven seats and Democrats two seats.

Pryor said Republicans want to redistrict early because they want to hold onto power despite policies like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which Pryor called a Big Beautiful Mess, hurting Americans.

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This behavior that were seeing today, we would not expect that from this country. We would expect that from a dictatorship, not the United States of America, Pryor said. Their greatest fear is that Americans are waking up and realizing that the Republican Party might not be making them better off; its making them bankrupt.

Indiana Democratic Party Chairwoman Karen Tallian said in a statement that mid-decade redistricting attempts prove the GOP knows it is losing support among voters.

This is a clear power grab by a Republican Party that knows it cant win the next election without changing the rules, Tallian said. After 21 years of Republican rule in Indiana, utility bills and grocery prices are skyrocketing and our healthcare system is hanging by a thread  no wonder theyd rather cheat than face the voters fair and square.

akukulka@post-trib.com
A mom and a national public policy organization are taking her northeast Indiana school district to court to challenge a school policy they say violates her First and 14th Amendment rights.

The Goldwater Institute, a conservative-leaning Arizona-based think tank, filed a complaint Aug. 12 in the Northern District of Indiana that, if successful, could overturn the school district's meeting recording policy and clarify a gray area of First Amendment law.

Whitley County Consolidated Schools' policy says a building administrator must first give permission before parents and others can record private school meetings such as parent-teacher conferences.

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Goldwater argues that the policy is unconstitutional, saying there is "no compelling, substantial, important, or even rational reason" to prohibit parents from recording.

"We think there's a clear idea that the First Amendment protects more than just verbal speech. It protects conduct, and especially conduct that's inherently expressive," Goldwater attorney Adam Shelton said. "We think that presents a very good and important First Amendment question."

In a previous statement to IndyStar, district Superintendent Laura McDermott said Nicole Graves was restricted from campus for "a pattern of aggressive interactions with school staff and public commentary involving children other than her own," not for expressing concerns.

IndyStar has reached out to McDermott regarding the newly filed litigation.

Background on Nicole Graves' case

Last year, Graves recorded a meeting with her school principal about an incident on her daughter's school bus concerning the driver's behavior. She decided to record the meeting so she could accurately recount what was said, according to Goldwater.

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Discontent with the principal's answers, she posted part of the recording on social media. The district then notified Graves in a letter, which IndyStar obtained, that she broke policy and was given a school grounds ban and restrictions on staff communications. The punishment has since expired.

As she brings her fight to court, Graves said she is surprised it has come to this but not that the school won't back down. She said she is continuing to fight to establish better policies for parents and protect children.

"This is not fun for me. This is not something I ever thought I would have to fight for," she said. "But I am more than happy to stand up and fight and talk to who I need to talk to to get things to change because I think it's important for all the families in this school district."

With her four children still attending school in the district, Graves is concerned about retaliation. She said she is keeping a close eye on her children's schooling and is "terrified" the school will ban her again.

First Amendment issue

The right to record public officials engaged their official duties in a public place has been solidified through previous case law. Goldwater, through its complaint, is attempting to deepen those rights by arguing that some private conversations are protected as well.

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In its complaint, Goldwater argues that people have the right to record meetings with government officials as long as the recording doesn't violate the rights of other private individuals and the person is lawfully present.

"When it's just a conversation between a parent and a school official about their child and doesn't implicate any privacy rights of other students, we think a parent has the right to record that meeting," Shelton said.

If the school restricted Graves from talking about the meeting or drafting a transcript, Shelton previously said, it would undoubtedly violate the First Amendment. He questions why a recording would be any different.

The complaint also says the policy violates Graves' 14th Amendment rights to control her child's education in several instances, overlapping with their First Amendment argument.

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Goldwater is seeking an injunction halting the recording policy and a judgment finding the school district violated Graves' First and 14th Amendment rights.

Goldwater Institute's second stab

This is Goldwater's second crack in two years at clarifying First Amendment case law on recording conversations with school officials.

The institute petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court in June 2024 to take up the case of a Massachusetts dad denied the ability to video-record his son's special education accommodation conferences. The high court did not take up the appeal after a district court ruled the act of recording was not protected by the First Amendment.

Shelton said the institute is hopeful the courts will take a full look at their arguments in Graves' case.

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"We think we have a very good argument here that the recording of this meeting is protected both by the First Amendment and the 14th Amendment," he said. "We look forward to expressing those ideas in court."

The USA TODAY Network - Indiana's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners.

Have a story to tell? Reach Cate Charron by email at ccharron@indystar.com, on X at @CateCharron or Signal at @cate.charron.28.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana mom sues Whitley County school district after it banned her
New data shows 87.3% of Hoosier third graders demonstrated proficient reading skills on the IREAD exam in 2024-25. (Getty Images)

Indianas latest reading assessment scores showed the largest year-to-year improvement since the state began IREAD testing in 2013, rising nearly five percentage points from last year, according to new results released Wednesday.

The new data revealed that 87.3% of third graders  about 73,500 out of more than 84,000 students statewide  demonstrated proficient reading skills in 2024-25. Thats roughly 6,000 more proficient readers than a year ago and the highest rate since before the pandemic.

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The scores were presented by Indiana Department of Education officials at the August State Board of Education meeting in Indianapolis.

Indiana Education Secretary Katie Jenner testifies in committee on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Whats exciting in Indiana right now is the momentum across the board  it takes an army of people to make this happen, and  our real role as a board is to just get the brick walls out of the way as much as possible so that we can really best impact kids, Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner told the education board.

In a press release, Jenner added: This is a time for celebration, and it is also a time to double-down on our commitment to helping even more students learn to read. The data is clear  what we are doing is working  so lets keep at it, ensuring a brighter future for Hoosier students.

Gov. Mike Braun called the results another example of how we are leading the nation in education, adding that helping every Hoosier to live out their American dream starts with the ability to read.

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Jenner and other state officials emphasized that the record jump follows a multiyear effort to reverse pandemic-era declines, anchored by up to $170 million in state and Lilly Endowment Inc. funding to expand teacher training in the science of reading, boost early screening and target interventions for struggling readers.

By 2027, state officials want 95% of third graders to demonstrate reading proficiency.

This year, more than 10,000 students did not pass the IREAD but good cause exemptions are still being processed so it is not yet known how many students will be held back under a stricter new law.

Gains across all students groups

For the first time, scores on the Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination assessment, or IREAD, improved for every student group measured, according to IDOE.

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Black students saw a 7.5 percentage point increase from last year, bringing their total gain since 2021 to 14.1 points. Students in special education also improved by 7.5 points year-over-year and are up 12.2 points from 2021.

Among students receiving free or reduced-price meals, proficiency climbed 6.6 points from last year and 10 points over four years.

Hispanic students  whose proficiency dropped in 2024  improved by 7.5 points in 2025. English learners, whose results had been largely flat for three years, posted a 7.2 point increase.

If you look at the English learner population  we were going down and then hit a plateau, which was very concerning, Jenner said. So this going back up, I think, is especially promising  the plateau is no longer. Were moving up.

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She also highlighted that 456 schools across Indiana hit a 95% or higher IREAD proficiency rate this year  179 more than last year. Statewide, more than a third of all elementary schools hit the goal for IREAD passage.

We continue to move the needle with schools year to year, Jenner said.

Board members praised the gains, too.

Like, literally scream this from the rooftops, said board member B.J. Watts. Ive never seen numbers like this.  Take a minute to celebrate this.

Earlier testing, more interventions

The pass rate includes students who took and passed the IREAD a year early, during second grade. Under a new policy in effect this year, all second graders took the assessment, giving them up to five opportunities to pass before fourth grade.

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In years prior, schools could opt-in to second grade testing.

Roughly 81,800 second graders participated in IREAD testing this year, compared to just under 69,000 in 2024 and fewer than 46,000 in 2023.

During the most recent academic year, 68% of second graders either passed or were considered on track to pass by the end of third grade.

Starting in 2024-25, all Indiana second graders took the IREAD exam, giving teachers and parents earlier insight into reading skills and more time for remediation. Previously, second grade testing was optional, and not all schools participated. (Screenshot from IDOE presentation)

The states data showed that 96% of second graders who were on track last year passed in third grade this year, while more than 65% of those identified as at risk in 2024 met the standard in 2025.

Weve heard loud and clear from teachers, but also from parents and families who  years ago, theyd get to third grade and theyd be like, I thought my child could read. What do you mean they cant read? Jenner said. Now  it opens a really honest conversation that we have to have with our partners, our parents and families.

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The annual IREAD pass rate measures one years third grade class, counting both those who passed the test in third grade and those who passed it early, as second graders.

Students are given up to five total attempts at the assessment before fourth grade  two in second grade, and three more in third.

Retention numbers still to come

While the 2024-25 IREAD results show sharp gains, the number of students who will be held back under Indianas reading retention law wont be known until after the states Oct. 1 school enrollment count day.

Thats when IDOE will finalize which third graders failed to pass the exam and did not qualify for one of several good cause exemptions permitted by state law.

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In 2023, 13,855 third graders did not pass IREAD, according to IDOE data. Of those, 7,528 received good cause exemptions; 6,327 did not. Even so, fewer than 500 students were retained and required to repeat third grade.

Indianas new third-grade reading retention law took effect for the 2024-2025 school year, meaning more students are expected to be held back.

Under the statute, a student who would otherwise be retained in third grade is allowed to advance to fourth grade if they meet one of the following criteria:

Previously retained in grade three for one school year;

Have an intellectual disability or an IEP indicating retention is inappropriate, with promotion approved by the students case conference committee;

Are an English learner with fewer than two years of English instruction, with promotion recommended by a parent-teacher-administrator committee based on research-based instructional practices;

Earned a proficient or above proficient score in grade three math on the statewide summative assessment; or

Have received at least two years of intensive reading intervention and were retained more than once in kindergarten through second grade.

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Retention requirements were strengthened in 2024 as part of Indianas push to reach 95% third grade reading proficiency by 2027.

Students who do not pass in third grade must receive additional reading instruction aligned with the science of reading and retest each spring and summer until they either pass or are promoted to seventh grade, even if they advance to the next grade under a good cause exemption.

More work ahead

The online, untimed, multiple-choice IREAD test gauges student progress on foundational reading skills  like phonics and vocabulary  as well as silent reading and comprehension, according to IDOE.

The test is intended to help identify students who need additional support, and to determine if younger students  who take the exam in second grade or before  will be able to master reading skills by the end of third grade.

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During the meeting, Jenner cautioned that not all literacy metrics are trending upward.

Story continues below.

_08.13.25 SBOE IREAD Results

While elementary English/language arts scores have risen alongside math, she noted that middle school ELA remains the only needle we have not moved in the state of Indiana.

Last months ILEARN results, which measure ELA and math proficiency for grades 3-8, showed continued gains in math but little movement in reading.

Statewide, 42.1% of students scored proficient in math  up more than five percentage points since 2021  while 40.6% reached proficiency in ELA, essentially unchanged from the prior year. About 31.2% of students passed both subjects.

Our English language art scores moved up in our elementary grades, but they did not move up  they went down  in our middle school grades, Jenner told the board.

I flag that because we believe wholeheartedly that weve solved multiple other challenges, and were up for the challenge there, she continued. Theres not a state we can copy and paste from whos figured it out. So, youre going to hear more about that.

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By Ananda Teresia

JAKARTA (Reuters) -Indonesia has set up 100 army battalions to help with agriculture projects under President Prabowo Subianto's food security initiative, an official said on Wednesday, underscoring the growing role of the military in civilian life.

Since being inaugurated as president last year, Prabowo, a former special forces commander, has expanded the role of the military, including using soldiers to deliver his flagship free school meals project and to manufacture medicines for public use.

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The battalions, consisting of thousands of soldiers, will be installed across Indonesia to work on agriculture and health projects, especially in remote areas, Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana, army spokesperson told Reuters.

"Our roles are as the enablers, to fill the gap when the projects are not delivered due to certain limitations or problems," Yudhayana said.

Indonesia passed a change to legislation in March that allows the military a bigger role in government, a move that has raised fears among rights groups of a return to authoritarianism.

Yudhayana said the battalions would work to make idle land productive, improve irrigation systems and increase food production.

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Some have voiced concern that the military lacks farming expertise, but Yudhayana said the agriculture ministry would train the soldiers, equipping them with the required skills.

Made Supriatma, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, said it was the first time in its democratic era that Indonesia had set up military units dedicated to agriculture and farming.

Rather than enlist soldiers, the government should have improved agricultural productivity by empowering farmers, he argued.

"This is a serious threat to democracy because these people will create their own structure. The military will have more roles," he said.

(Reporting by Ananda Teresia Editing by Christina Fincher)
SALT LAKE CITY (WPRI)  A jury in Utah is now deliberating the fate of a Rhode Island fugitive, who authorities allege faked his own death to avoid criminal prosecution.

Nicholas Alahverdian, also known as Nicholas Rossi, is charged with a felony count of rape, accused of sexually assaulting his then-25-year-old girlfriend in Salt Lake City County in 2008.

His attorneys called just two witnesses on Wednesday: a former Orem police officer and the victims father.

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Yolanda Stewart, now a retired police sergeant, said she had been working at the Orem Dept. of Public Safety, in Utah County, for 14 years when another officer alerted her about a possible rape case.

Stewart said she interviewed a woman who claimed she had been raped by Alahverdian in September of 2008 before and after she underwent a forensic exam for a rape kit. (Alahverdian is being tried separately for that case later this year.)

She told the jury that she met with that victim a few days after the incident where the officer was told that the woman and Alahverdian agreed to meet after he told her she had money that was owed to her. When she arrived, he didnt have the money.

Stewart also said that she spoke with Alahverdian as a part of her investigation. She said Alahverdian claimed he did not rape the woman because he had a fear of having sex.

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The retired police sergeant said she later learned the victim sand Alahverdian went out for a meal after the allegation of rape, that he paid, and he gave her the money that he owed her.

I was a bit frustrated because she had met with him, had a meal with him, and when I talked to her she was stating that she was raped by that same person, Stewart said. In circumstances like that, most people would be afraid to have any contact with the suspect after being raped.

The Utah County victim provided different testimony to the jury on Tuesday. She stated that an officer came to her home to return the money Alahverdian owed her.

Stewart disputed that an officer would return money to an alleged victim. She said once she learned that the victim met with Alahverdian, she decided to close the case and not forward it to be screened by prosecutors.

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The defense rested their case and Deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney Clint Heiner gave closing arguments for the prosecution.

Make no mistake about it, its Mr. Alahverdian thats on trialexcept in 2008 when [the victim] knew him by a different name: Nicholas Rossi, Heiner said.

Heiner argued that Alahverdian intentionally, knowingly or recklessly had sexual intercourse with the victim without her consent.

It was no mistake about it that Mr. Rossi knew that this was not consensual. She never said, OK, this is alright,' Heiner said. He pinned her there and raped her.

Heiner also said that the victim proved she is credible when she provided testimony on Monday.

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The details of the rape she was consistent on from the time she talked to the detective until the time she told you here in court on Monday, he said. It was hard to talk about, but that strength, that bravery, to come forward in front of 10 strangers, a courtroom of people and cameras, and tell you what happened took strength, took courage. Its not easy to do.

Thats credible, he added.

Heiner also posed the question to the jury: Why would the victim lie?

The defense will have you to believe that this was a woman scorned, Heiner said. Ask yourself, why would she hold on to that grudge all these years, 17 years later? Doesnt make sense.

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He also brought up how Alahverdian moved to the United Kingdom and fought extradition by claiming he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight.

She told you exactly who he is and what he did. He raped her. And what did Mr. Rossi do? Moved. He moved on and changed his name he changed his entire identity, Heiner said. Pretended to be a man from the United Kingdom by the name of Arthur Knight and spoke with a different accent.

Heiner said that prosecutors proved beyond a reasonable doubt who Alahverdian really is.

Innocent people dont run and hide. Find him guilty of rape, he said.

Alahverdians defense attorney Samantha Dugan said the prosecutions case was like buying a board game from a thrift store: it had missing parts.

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The missing pieces in this case are huge and troublesome, Dugan said.

Dugan said the timeline of events was murky, but one thing was clear: records show Alahverdian did not rent a room on Blair Street in Salt Lake City until January 2009, a month after the victim said the alleged assault took place in that location.

That is a huge detail, whether or not he actually was at the Blair Street address, Dugan told the jury.

Dugan reminded the jury that the victim and Alahverdians relationship moved quickly, which led to them getting engaged after just weeks of knowing each other.

Because it is such a quick whirlwind romance thats the sort of behavior I want you to think about, Dugan said.

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Dugan compared the relationship to the popular reality television show, 90 Day Fiance where a couple has just 90 days to decide whether they should get married or not, telling the jury people watch the show because its bizarre.

Dugan disputed that the defense was arguing that this was a case of a woman scorned. She also argued that the victim may be lying, but that the jury may never know the answer to that question.

The gain of that lie may not be apparent to you. But people do it, Dugan said. Maybe they had make-up sex and 13 years later it is now rape, and this is why. Because it was important to her. She thought she was going to marry this man. It was serious.

Dugan said that the jury can believe Alahverdian was a bad boyfriend to the victim.

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Thats fine, Dugan said. But just because somebody is bad at relationships when they are 21 years-old does not mean that theyre a rapist.

Alahverdians attorney argued that just because he moved to another country and changed his name doesnt mean he is guilty.

Youre allowed to move, youre allowed to go somewhere else, youre allowed to have a different name. Thats allowed. And what the state has again not provided to you is how that is consciousness of guilt, other than just wild speculation, Dugan said.

The prosecution had the final word in a rebuttal.

You heard what Nicholas Rossi did to her, Deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney Brandon Simmons said. You heard from her how she felt, you saw how she felt as she told you about that. You heard that once she told him that the relationship was over, then he raped her.

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Simmons said he agreed with Dugan that people can change their name, but said what Alahverdian did was suspicious.

He was going by the name of Arthur Knight and when the judge asked him, he pretended not to know who Nicholas Rossi was, Simmons said. He pretended not to know because he was facing these charges.

Simmons also argued that Alahverdian provided a different date of birth at the time he told prosecutors he was Knight.

Beyond a reasonable doubt is not 100%, Simmons said. Consider the fact that Nicholas Alahverdian pretended to be Arthur Knight with the British accent and the fake date of birth. Consider all of that, and we ask you to find the defendant guilty of rape.

The panel of eight jurors was then sent to deliberate the case. Two alternate jurors will stand by amid deliberations.

Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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 free WPRI 12+ TV app.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Protesters including Orion Overstreet, left, march against xAI in Memphis in June 2025. Credit - Stu Boyd IIUSA TODAY Network/Reuters

Five days after Elon Musks Grok 4 became one of the most powerful large language models in the world, Alexis Humphreys had her first severe asthma attack in 15 years. She laid down in her house in Boxtown, Memphis in the humid, sticky summer, struggling to breathe, inhaling a smell of gas that had started wafting into her neighborhood about a year before. It felt like my chest was caving in, Humphreys, 28, says on her front porch a couple of days later.

Environmentalists and community activists say this is no coincidence. Boxtown, a predominantly Black community with a median income of $37,000, sits a few miles from where Musk, driven by ambitions of creating an AI smarter than humans, set up the self-proclaimed biggest supercomputer in the world last year. The supercomputer, named Colossus, consisted of a staggering 230,000 Nvidia GPUs, a sheer training power that allowed Musk to vault past his competitors in key benchmarks. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, another AI titan, praised Musks rapid buildout of the site as superhuman.

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But all of those computers need a vast amount of energy to run. Fueling them has been 35 unpermitted temporary gas turbines, which have been pumping out a level of emissions that, according to environmentalists, is exacerbating the health issues of an area already crushed by decades of pollution.

Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, at the request of TIME, ran an analysis on the air quality in South Memphis over the last couple of years, based on public satellite data from NASA and the European Space Agency. They found that average concentrations of nitrogen dioxide have increased by 3% when comparing the periods before June 2024 and afterward. They also found that peak nitrogen dioxide concentration levels have increased by 79% from pre-xAI levels in areas immediately surrounding the data center, and by 9% in nearby Boxtown.

Because high concentrations of air pollutants pose greater health risks than lower concentrations, the researchers said, focusing on these spikesrather than just averagesoffers more meaningful insight into potential health impacts. Its the first major effort to quantify the turbines environmental impact using publicly available data.

These changes in pollutant concentrations likely reflect the combined influence of natural gas-fired emission sources in the area, including both the new xAI facility and the increased utilization of the Allen power plant, wrote Joshua Fu, a civil and environmental engineering professor, and Zhixu Sun, a PhD student.

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Austin Dalgo, an academic primary care physician in South Memphis, calls the jump in peak nitrogen dioxide concentration levels alarming, and believes that they significantly increase the risk to residents health. The EPA writes that a high concentration of NO2 can aggravate respiratory diseases, particularly asthma.

The xAI turbines are leading to a public health crisis in Memphis by releasing nitrogen oxidespollutants known to directly harm the lungs, Dalgo tells TIME. These emissions pose the greatest risk to our citys most vulnerable residents, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.

xAIand its boosters, such as the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerceinsisted the turbines were legal, generated negligible amounts of pollution, and were only temporary: they said in April that the units would be replaced with cleaner models featuring pollution controls, a change they later claimed was carried out this summer. Those upgrades, the companys local representative, Brent Mayo, told a permit hearing in April, would make xAI the lowest-emitting facility in the country. (xAI did not respond to a request for comment for this story.)

Community members believe that the damage is already done, and that xAIs approach sets a dangerous precedent for other companies to pollute without regulatory oversight, as long as they are doing so on a temporary basis. In June, the NAACP sent an intent-to-sue notice to xAI for violating the Clean Air Act, arguing that the company failed to obtain the necessary permits or pollution controls for the turbines. But the lawsuit seems unlikely to get traction from President Donald Trumps Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which just shuttered the scientific research arm that analyzes environmental hazards.

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Now, Musk is building an even bigger data center at a different site a few miles away in Whitehaven, which he brags will be double the sizeand run on a power plant imported from overseas. In August, 66 more gas turbines paid for by an xAI subsidiary were delivered to that site, although its unclear how they will be used.

AI data centers are exploding in number across the country alongside Trumps AI Action Plan, released in July, which calls for the expediting of data center permitting by reducing regulations imposed by the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.

AI boosters like Musk tend to talk about AI progress in global or even intergalactic terms. They say that powerful AIs will cure cancer, fight climate change, and turbocharge productivity. But their quest to transform humanity may be coming at the expense of actual people. Our lives and our lungs are being sacrificed on the altar of their capitalistic exploitation, says Justin Pearson, a Tennessee state representative for parts of Memphis, including Boxtown.

Imagine the outcry if these facilities had been placed next to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, no one would allow it, says Dalgo. Instead, they were placed in the backyard of a historically Black, underserved neighborhood, reinforcing a long legacy of environmental racism in Memphisand our country.

Elon's Deal

xAIs first Memphis data center sits on the banks of the Mississippi, a 15-minute drive from downtown. To the casual observer, theres little that distinguishes it visually from the other facilities in the heavily-industrialized area, which include a power plant, a wastewater plant, and a steel manufacturer. But its clear something substantial is happening inside: the ground hums with activity, and from the road outside the fences, air above its turbines appears to glitch and flicker as they pump out fumes.

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AI is Americas newest big industryand Elon Musk is intent on controlling its most powerful systems. Driven by fears of what would happen if AGI (artificial general intelligence) were to be developed in the wrong hands, Musk has plowed billions of dollars into developing the technology. But his first big bet in the spaceon the young entrepreneur Sam Altman and OpenAIended in a bitter breakup.

Musk publicly questioned whether Altman could be trusted with AGI, and started building his own rival project: xAI, which he announced in 2023. At that point, Musk was several years behind his competitors. He needed to find a location to quickly start training his AI, with as ample energy and waterand as little red tapeas possible.

Musk found a willing partner in Memphis, a city with deep economic challenges. In 2024, Shelby County, where Memphis sits, led the nation in population decline. And because Tennessee does not collect income taxwhich it repealed in 2021its governments are reliant on businesses coming to the state to pay property taxes.

Property taxes are the mother's milk of how government is funded, says Bobby White, chief government affairs officer at the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce. And we have not, historically, had people tripping over themselves to get to Memphis. We have to go get it out of the mud.

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In 2024, xAI came calling about a large, vacant manufacturing lot: a former Electrolux plant, which had arrived in 2013 with $188 million in subsidies, promising good, long-term jobs. But six years later, the company announced it would close shop and lay off 500 employees, marking yet another corporate letdown for the city. Memphis is a cash cow for everybody but us, says Orion Overstreet, a Memphis college student and activist. It has always been a very extractive story, where we get stuck as the dumping ground for corporations.

Orion Overstreet, Memphis college student and activist, speaks with TIME. Julian Harper

The Electrolux site seemed ideal to xAI: in an industrial zone, proximate to a power plant and a wastewater facility. When xAI inquired about the site, and didnt ask for property tax abatements, many politicians and local agencies were elated. The scope of the project meant that it was projected to generate an estimated $25 million or more in property taxes for Memphis during every year of operation.

So xAI forged ahead quietly and quickly, signing NDAs with key players, including Memphis Gas Light and Water (MGLW). Memphis Council Member Yolanda Cooper-Sutton says she heard about the project on the news. The data center was built in a matter of months, with xAI insiders calling it the largest AI datacenter on the planet.

Musk was ready to train his AI Grok in Memphis, but there was just one problem: MGLW couldnt provide nearly enough power for Musks needs. In August 2024, MGLW said that xAI would have access to 50 megawatts of power. But xAI wanted to use triple that amount: enough energy to power 80,000 households.

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So he brought in 35 methane gas turbines, which had a combined generating capacity of 421 megawatts, comparable to entire Tennessee power plants. Based on manufacturer-supplied emissions data, these turbines have the potential to emit between 1,200 and 2,000 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) a year, which would eclipse the output of the Memphis airport.

In April, Memphis Mayor Paul Young, who has been supportive of the project, said that the turbines were only there as a backup power source, and only 15 of them were in use. But environmentalists used thermal imaging and found heat coming off of 33 of the 35 turbines. The turbines, based on their visual makes, did not appear to be equipped with emissions control technology, says Amanda Garcia, a senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, which represents NAACP in its legal actions against xAI.

These 35 turbines: we have never seen anything like this in Memphis or elsewhere, says Garcia. They essentially set up a power plant without getting a permit.

A representative for Mayor Young did not make him available for comment.

The Boxtown Resistance

Easter Knox, 76, started smelling gas in the air last year, and stopped opening her windows. It smells like rotten cabbage early in the morning, Knox says, three miles down from the data center. Its been a struggle, breathing this little air thats coming through.

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Knox knows all too well that Memphiss air wasnt exactly clean before xAI arrived. Shelby County received an F from the American Lung Associations most recent State of the Airs ozone report. The city ranks second in the nation in terms of asthma-related ED visits in the nation and seventh in asthma-related deaths. And the citys ozone levels regularly exceed national minimum air quality standards.

Boxtown, where Knox has lived for five decades, has been particularly crushed. Once a community for freed slaves after the Civil War, corporations flocked to the area in the 20th century to set up giant industrial plants. In the 1940s, the U.S. military came to South-Central Memphis and disposed of waste such as oil, grease, and paint thinners into the soil; decades later, it was declared a superfund site. A Sterilization Services of Tennessee facility was finally closed last year after emitting ethylene oxide into the air for decades, which the EPA linked to increased cancer risk in South Memphis. A 2013 study found that Southwest Memphiss cancer rate is four times the national average.

Knoxs family is represented in those cruel statistics: Her father and brother died from cancer, which she believes was related to the nearby Valero oil refinery. Knox was diagnosed with COPD last year, and her husband, Starrie, also suffered from asthma and COPD before dying in June from cancer. We are the last of the forgotten out here, she says.

As Knox sits under a shaded pavilion in Boxtown on a July afternoon, the air is stifling: glasses fog up in the humidity, and the metal weights on a communal bench press scald to the touch. Though some houses in the neighborhood are crumbling, there are also plenty of signs of community care around her, in the form of flower beds and shady places to sit. Its God's given air, and man shouldnt take it away from us, she says. I dont care how much money you got.

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As Knox talks, a crowd gathers and nods in assent, offering their own stories of decades of trauma and neglect.

I got a lot of relatives, my mother and father, buried up there at my church with breathing problems, cancer, lung problems, says Willie Joseph Stafford, an 80-year-old lifelong Boxtown resident. Nobody seems to care about what's causing it and what we can do to solve it. Instead of them trying to do that, they come out here and put more pollution on us.

For Musk, the Electrolux plant was simply a good deal. To the residents of Boxtown, it was another threat upon their lungs. Gas turbines release smog-forming pollution and hazardous chemicals like formaldehydewhich are tied to increases in asthma, respiratory diseases, heart problems, and certain cancers. People who already have respiratory issues are at greater health risk to any increase in pollution.

Dalgo, who works at several clinics within 15 miles of the data center, says he sees many patients with breathing issues. Im pretty surprised at how many people come in with respiratory problems, or need an inhaler to get around day-to-day without having wheezing symptoms, he says. I think their respiratory issues are being exacerbated because they're experiencing high levels of nitrogen oxides  I wouldn't be surprised if some of the respiratory issues that I've seen are directly related to the tonnes of nitrogen oxides that are being put in the air by these turbines.

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In April, hundreds of people showed up to a public hearing held by the Shelby County Health Department over xAIs air permit for permanent turbines, and voiced their complaints one by one. Why cant we breathe at home? Humphreys asked at the meeting.

Public outcry has continued. On one Tuesday evening in July, about 75 protesters gathered by the student coalition Tigers Against Pollution marched in front of the Shelby County Health Department, holding signs that read Elon XiPloits and our lungs / our lives / NOT FOR SALE.

One of the marchers was Christian Dennis, a 22-year-old South Memphian whose grandmother died of cancer, despite not smoking or drinking her whole life. They call us anti-business extremists, he says. To receive that reaction simply from wanting clean air, wanting equal health opportunitiesIt just tells you a lot about people.

Christian Dennis, 22, from South Memphis speaks to TIME. Julian Harper

The protest garnered support from passing cars. A fire truck drove by and honked its deafening horn, with firefighters holding up fists. When a Tesla Cybertruckwhich has effectively become a symbol of Musk himselfstopped alongside the protest, protestors began jeering. But then the driver rolled down his window and leaned toward the crowd. Im on your side! he shouted, before driving away.

Power and Promises

Boxtown residents and protesters are making a lot of noise. But theyre running up against the citys power playersmost notably the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce, which helped bring xAI to the city. We're seeing something pretty magnificent happen that is going to be tremendously beneficial to the city, Bobby White, the Chambers government affairs officer, told TIME at the Chambers offices downtown.

When you walk into the Chamber and turn right, the first thing you see is xAIs logo: the main conference room is emblazoned with the title xAI Digital Delta Center in big, frosted lettering. White explains that while the Chamber used to be primarily funded by the government, it now relies on private fundingand xAI has become its biggest investor in short order. We do sponsorships. You can put your name on the wall, too, he says.

White is keen to list the reasons why xAI will uplift Memphis. xAIs property taxes will inject millions into public projects to beautify the city and fix infrastructure, he says. Musk has agreed to supply Tesla Megapack batteries that will help fortify the grid during periods of peak demand to safeguard from blackouts. xAIs presence in the area is bringing other companies to an area that desperately needs jobs and investment. And the company has agreed to finance renovations for four schools near their data centers.

Another key potential benefit involves water. Data centers use a vast amount of water to cool their computers, sometimes drawing from the local drinking supply. When xAI moved to Memphis, water activists became concerned that the company would try to draw from the aquifer that sits below the city and contains some of the purest water in the country.

Instead, Musk started work on an $80 million wastewater plant down the road from his facility, which would treat sewer water and repurpose it for xAIs uses. Crucially, other nearby entities, including the Tennessee Valley Authority and Nucor Steel, have agreed to use it once its ready, taking them off the aquifer. Sarah Houston, the executive director of the nonprofit Protect Our Aquifer, calls the treatment plant a huge step in the right direction towards protecting the drinking water of Memphis.

Houston, however, remains wary of the projects future. Building infrastructure for the oligarchy is a really scary path to start walking, Houston says. If xAI folds and leaves, how do we ensure this facility continues to operate? Public interest should not be based on profits. It should be based on our core needs, one of which is clean drinking water.

But those in power are attempting to convince Boxtown residents that xAI's presence will actually benefit them most. Mayor Young has proposed an ordinance that 25% of xAIs property taxes go straight to infrastructure improvements within five miles of its data centers. The ordinance, the mayor told Memphis council members, would help bring back dignity to Boxtown and nearby communities, financing potholes, street repair, home repairs, and social services. It is slowly working its way through the city council process this summer.

Some Boxtown community members are pacified by this idea. But Representative Justin Pearson is not one of them. There's no amount of money that can persuade me to accept pollution killing me and my family, he says. He likens the funding to a bribe, and contends the community has not been given legitimate input into how the money might be allocated.

He adds that Boxtown should not have to sacrifice its air quality for fundamental services like getting its trash picked up and its potholes filled. It is sickening that the only way we're going to be able to get any financial benefits from our government is by accepting the death-dealing pollution, xAI plant tax, he says.

Other community members say that past projects have offered similar promises, only for them to not pan out. When someone says that this percentage of tax revenue will go to this thing, its hard to trust that, because it hasnt in the past, says Amber Sherman, a Memphis policy organizer.

Debating the Data

As xAIs defenders stress its potential benefits, they also contend that the environmental criticisms are overblown. White, for instance, argues that theres no evidence xAI is doing anything that is not legally, or in terms of existing policy, allowable. He adds: We have folks who will go to these community meetings and complain about temporary gas turbines, half of which have already disappeared, and they'll be driving a car thats smoking, looking like they're cooking barbecue in the back.

There have been no significant studies on the turbines impact on Memphis air quality. Proper air quality testing is expensive and requires rigorous reporting over a long period of time. It is also exceedingly hard to pinpoint xAIs exact impact, given the many other industrial facilities in the area.

Most relevant governmental agencies have avoided looking into the turbines impact in a meaningful way. The Shelby County Health Department said the turbines, because they were temporary, fell under the oversight of the EPA. (In July, its director Michelle Taylor announced she was leaving the job for a Baltimore post.) An EPA spokesperson said in July that the agency was working with the local health department to review concerns.

The health department subsequently approved xAIs permit request for 15 permanent gas turbines, which it said would be used strictly as backup, and said that the temporary turbines were fine as long as they were removed within a year. They added that the permanent turbines would have state-of-the-art emissions control which would make their health impacts negligible.

The City of Memphis tried to assuage concerns by commissioning its own study, which found the air in Boxtown and Whitehaven was safe. But some air quality experts raised questions about the studys methodology, which only took readings from three locations over two 12-hour periods, and placed monitors underneath buildings in a way that may not have conformed with EPA guidance. Most importantly, the monitors did not even measure one of the most important air pollutants at issue here, which is ozone or smog, says Garcia of the SELC.

In April, University of Memphis professor Chunrong Jia declared that, based on his modeling, the turbines did not threaten local air quality, but conceded that there was huge uncertainty around the modeling process, especially because it was based on data provided by xAI rather than on independent air monitoring. Jia did not respond to a request for comment.

In July, Memphis Communities Against Pollution, a group led by Justin Pearsons brother KeShaun, announced that it was conducting its own $250,000 study to install nine air quality monitoring devices in the city. Pearson says a full report from the study will likely be available in September.

Meanwhile, TIME asked researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to run an analysis of the air quality in South Memphis based on publicly available data from satellites: NASAs TEMPO instrument, and ESAs Tropomi. After screening for cloud cover, outliers, and using de-weathering techniques, they found distinct temporal patterns across pollutants following the commencement of xAI facility operations. When adjusted for meteorological variability, they found that nitrogen dioxide jumped by 3% in the post-xAI period, with peak episodes observed in late 2024.

These findings suggest that emissions from the xAI data center and associated transportation activities may be contributing to air quality changes in ZIP code 38109, wrote Joshua Fu and Zhixu Sun in their analysis.

The researchers also found that the concentration levels of nitrogen dioxide hit far higher peaks after the turbines moved in, with the maximum value of hourly NASA data increasing by 79% compared to that of the pre-xAI period. Since high concentrations of air pollutants pose far greater health risks than lower concentrations, focusing on peak values or upper-percentile concentrations provides more meaningful insight when evaluating potential health impacts, Sun wrote.

The researchers noted that some of those emissions may be coming from the TVA power plant nearby. But TVA allocated 150 megawattsabout 13% of the plants capacityto xAI in 2024, according to data the researchers reviewed from the Energy Information Administration. They also noted that motor vehicles may have contributed to the rise in nitrogen dioxide.

A High Pain Threshold

xAI is currently building out a second location just a few miles away, in Whitehaven, which will be double the size of the first one, with 550,000 Nvidia GPUs. The site needs so much power that Musk may be shipping a power plant from overseas. While Musk has talked about the importance of maximum transparency, details around the sites power, water and environmental impact are essentially unknown. In August, the Memphis newspaper Commercial Appeal found in SEC filings that an xAI subsidiary had paid for 66 natural gas turbines, and had them delivered to the Whitehaven site.

Musk says his goal is to bring the equivalent of 50 million NVIDIA supercomputers online within five years. The result of all this power? The ever-increasing capability of xAIs large language model Grok, which X users now look to as a source of truth. In July, Grok 4 outperformed its rivals on many benchmarks, most notably math-problem solving. In the same month, Grok also referred to itself as MechaHitler, made anti-semitic statements, and gave TIME instructions to make fentanyl. Concurrently, xAI announced a contract with the U.S. Defense Department worth up to $200 million to develop tech tools for Americas military.

Musks acceleration is only spurring forward his competitors to build their own data centers, tooand the Trump administration is cheering them on. The EPAs leader, Lee Zeldin, wrote in Fox News that he wants to clear the way for data center and AI development across the U.S. In March, Zeldin announced that he, with the assistance of Musks DOGE, had slashed more than $2 billion in EPA funding.

This posture from the EPA makes it unlikely they will take action against the NAACPs imminent lawsuit against xAIs turbines. Abre Conner, the director of the Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at the NAACP, sees xAIs Memphis conflict as part of a much larger struggle. For decades, we know that the decision to place more pollution in certain communities has disproportionately impacted Black communities and other frontline communities, she says. And now with the data center boom, many are looking at places that have already been considered sacrifice zones.

Musk hasnt responded to the community complaints in Memphis. As always, he has his eye on the horizon, and beyond: Hes talked extensively about the importance of having a high pain threshold in business in pursuit of lofty goals. Maybe Grok, if powerful enough, will indeed help us understand the true nature of the universe.

But Justin Pearson and other Boxtown community members see Musk as just the latest in a long line of extractive figures, who think they can treat Memphis like pawns on a chessboard. We are hurting and dying from these illnesses, and so the way that they came in tells us everything about what they think about us, he says. They do not care.

This story was supported by Tarbell Grants.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
By Giulia Paravicini and David Lewis

RUBAYA, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) -Under the watchful eye of M23 rebels in the hills around the Congolese town of Rubaya, a line of men in rubber boots ferry sacks full of crushed rocks up winding paths cut into the slopes.

The laborers are hauling coltan ore, a mineral that powers the modern world. The ore will be loaded onto motorbikes and eventually shipped thousands of kilometers away to Asia. There its processed into tantalum, a heat-resistant metal that fetches more than $300 a kilogram and is in high demand by makers of mobile phones, computers, aerospace components and gas turbines.

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Rubaya produces around 15% of the worlds coltan, all dug manually by impoverished locals who earn a few dollars per day. Control of this mine is the biggest prize in a long-running conflict in this central African nation.

The area was seized in April 2024 by M23, a rebel group the United Nations says has plundered Rubayas riches to help fund its insurgency, backed by the government of neighboring Rwanda. The heavily-armed rebels, whose stated aim is to overthrow the government in Kinshasa and ensure the safety of the Congolese Tutsi minority, captured even more mineral-rich territory in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this year.

The region and its mineral wealth are in the spotlight as M23 and the DRC have pledged to sign a peace deal at a ceremony in Qatars capital, Doha, this month. The United States is mediating parallel talks between Congo and Rwanda, dangling potentially billions of dollars in investment if hostilities cease.

The United States Treasury on Tuesday sanctioned other alleged participants in minerals smuggling in Congo, including PARECO-FF, a pro-government Congolese militia that the U.S. said controlled the Rubaya mining site from 2022 to early 2024, prior to M23s takeover.

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PARECO-FF could not be reached for comment.

Asked at a press briefing why Washington was targeting PARECO-FF rather than M23, a senior U.S. government official noted that M23 has been under U.S. sanctions since 2013 for fueling conflict in the region.

The Treasury Department will not hesitate to take action against groups that deny the United States and our allies access to the critical minerals vital for our national defense, John K. Hurley, undersecretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a separate statement.

Jason Stearns, a former U.N. investigator in Congo, said the fact that M23 was not targeted by the new mining-related sanctions was surprising, adding the move might be aimed at keeping the Doha talks on track.

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M23s advance poses the most serious threat to the Kinshasa government in at least two decades of conflict rooted in Rwandas 1994 genocide, which saw around 1 million of Rwandas Tutsi ethnic group killed by Hutu militias.

Rwandas government has long denied that it traffics in coltan looted from its neighbor or that it backs M23. But Rwandas ruling party, mainly headed by Tutsis, shares the same concerns as the Tutsi-dominated M23 insurgents over the purported threat posed by rival Hutu groups operating in eastern Congo. A July 3 U.N. report, reviewed by Reuters, says that as of April, Rwanda had placed at least 1,000 to 1,500 troops in Congos rebel-controlled areas.

M23 now controls two key Congolese cities  Goma and Bukavu  on the border with Rwanda. U.N. investigators say that it is through these cities that Congolese minerals are illegally trucked to Rwanda, often at night, where the ore is mixed with Rwandan coltan production in a bid to disguise its provenance before export.

M23 and the Rwandan and Congolese governments did not respond to requests for comment. Congolese officials have repeatedly accused Rwanda of fomenting the conflict to plunder Congos mineral wealth.

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According to a December U.N. report, the scale of the trade reached new heights after the capture of Rubaya by M23. The rebels went on to establish a parallel administration controlling mining activities, trade, transport and the taxation of the minerals produced there, the U.N. reported.

Reuters reporters visited Rubaya in March this year and were told by M23 officials that the rebels had imposed a tax on mineral traders of 15% on the value of coltan they purchase from the informal miners who work the area. M23 was taking in $800,000 monthly from levies collected from coltan mining in eastern Congo, according to the December U.N. report.

MUD AND MOTORBIKES

Simply reaching Rubayas sprawling, beehive-like maze of pits is a major undertaking. Reuters journalists who visited the mining sites in March had to abandon their four-wheel-drive Land Cruisers after the vehicles became stuck on the muddy road from Goma. They walked 5 kilometers (3 miles) to reach the town and then hopped on the back of motorcycles with rebel officials to reach the pits.

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Activity in Rubaya begins before dawn, when thousands of miners descend on the pits cut into the rolling hills of Congos North Kivu province, where many toil in 12-hour shifts.

The tunnels can be as deep as 15 meters (49 feet) underground. Once fragments of ore are dislodged, porters carry sacks of the rubble to the surface where laborers have dug shallow basins that are filled with water. There, other workers, including women and children, wash the ore and separate it from sand and other debris before laying it into the sun to dry.

The journalists were supervised by unarmed M23 personnel throughout their visit to the mining area. A reporter saw a rebel official jotting down in a notebook how many sacks each porter  covered in a fine white dust  carted to each collection point. Once the ore is dry, it is stacked on the backs of motorbikes that carry it to one of several depots in the nearby town of Rubaya, where it is sold to traders.

With a M23 chaperone listening, Pascal Mugisha Nsabimana, a 32-year-old miner, told Reuters that working under rebel occupation was preferable to toiling under the supervision of Congos military and its allies, who fled when M23 moved in on the area last year.

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Previously there was too much harassment, there were many different taxes, and often we, the diggers, were not paid. And even if we got something, it was poorly paid, the miner said. He added that his current day rate had at least tripled to 15,000 Congolese francs ($5.15) with M23 in charge.

In the early months following M23s takeover of Rubaya in April 2024, smugglers used motorcycles to sneak the ore into Rwanda via backroads to avoid scrutiny by Congolese forces remaining along the border, according to more than a dozen people familiar with the situation, including current and former smugglers, miners and local businessmen. The journey could take an entire day, according to two ex-smugglers who transported coltan this way until last year. They said they loaded their bikes each trip with three 50-kilogram bags and were paid about $34 for delivering it to coltan traders.

But alterations implemented by M23 have proven a game changer in terms of efficiency, nine of those people said. Motorcycles are no longer the primary means of transport and are used only to ferry the coltan from the mine to the town of Rubaya. From there, the ore is loaded into four-wheel drive SUVs, pickups and other vehicles capable of hauling anywhere from two tons to 20 tons each, according to the people and the July U.N report. The system is faster, too. Since M23 drove Congolese troops from Goma and took control of that border city, coltan trucks can now pass freely through it on paved roads into Rwanda, slashing transport times, the people said.

U.N. experts and human rights activists have long warned that profits from illegal mining are funding conflict. They say the trade has brought little wealth to local people and that child labor is common. Reuters witnessed at least a dozen children working at the Rubaya mine: Young boys entered the shafts to haul out ore and carry it to the basins where girls worked alongside adults washing and drying the coltan.

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Gregory Mthembu-Salter, a former U.N. expert on Congo who now does consulting on conflict minerals, said broad efforts by the mining industry, U.N. agencies and non-government organizations that began around 2010 to clean up the regions supply chain and prevent human rights abuses have largely failed.

Here we are, 15 years later, (and) the same thing is happening, said Mthembu-Salter, director of Phuzumoya Consulting.

U.S. INVESTORS EYE RUBAYA'S RICHES

Some U.S. entrepreneurs have also set their sights on Rubayas coltan treasure as President Donald Trump seeks to broker a peace deal to end the conflict and promote development of the regions mineral wealth. In Congo, those riches include huge reserves of cobalt, gold, copper, lithium and diamonds in addition to coltan. The countrys formal mining sector at present is dominated by Chinese companies.

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Texas hedge fund manager Gentry Beach, who is chairman of investment firm America First Global and helped raise funds for Trumps election campaign in 2016, was part of a consortium looking to negotiate rights to the Rubaya mine, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter. The Financial Times earlier reported Gentrys interest in Congos coltan.

The source told Reuters that Beach's group had proposed to the Congolese government taking a majority stake in the mine, with Kinshasa retaining a 30% interest.

Beach confirmed his interest in the project to Reuters but declined to provide additional details.

Some U.S. lawmakers are pushing back. In an Aug. 8 letter to Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, more than 50 Democratic congress members criticized what they said was the administrations lack of transparency in its negotiations with the DRC. They also raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest in a Trump ally angling for rights to develop the Rubaya mine.

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White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said in an Aug. 5 emailed statement that the agreement between Congo and Rwanda arranged by Trump has the potential to lead to lasting peace and stability in the region. The presidents vision is a win-win outcome where all parties benefiteconomically and politicallythrough cooperation and shared prosperity, the statement said. She did not respond to a follow-up query about the letter from congressional Democrats.

The U.S. State Department did not comment. On Aug. 1, the State Department said in a statement that it was committed to supporting efforts being made by Rwanda and Congo to advance security and economic cooperation. Heads of state would soon be invited to Washington for a summit, according to the statement, which did not elaborate.

The U.S.-backed accord does not include M23. The rebel group is part of a separate, parallel mediation led by Qatar that seeks to end hostilities. The success of those talks in Doha is key to any lasting peace  and in making Rubaya safe for investment and development by Western mining interests.

Some diplomats and analysts are dubious about the prospects for a speedy resolution.

Congo and M23 rebels pledged in Doha to reach a peace deal by August 18. But progress has been jeopardized by the killing of at least 319 civilians in eastern Congo last month, according to the U.N., which says the attacks were carried out by M23.

Reuters could not independently confirm those killings. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa told the news agency last month that it would investigate, but he said reports of atrocities could be a smear campaign against the insurgent group.

Meanwhile, the U.S.-brokered deal calls for Rwandan troops to pull out of Congo. But Rwandan President Paul Kagame said last month he was not sure the agreement would hold.

Kagame said Congo first must live up to its promises to subdue the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an eastern Congo-based ethnic Hutu militia linked to the Rwandan genocide, which Kigali sees as an existential threat.

Josaphat Musamba, a Congolese researcher and Ph.D student at Ghent University in Belgium, said suppressing the militia would be a tall order for the DRCs military, which is no longer present in large swathes of M23-controlled territory.

Its difficult to neutralize the FDLR as long as M23 are there and the Congolese army has not redeployed, Musamba said. He described both peace initiatives as piecemeal efforts that arent dealing with the reality on the ground.

Another formidable undertaking would be transforming Rubayas current crude system of coltan extraction into a modern operation, said a senior diplomat who is closely following events.

No one talks about the feasibility of giving out these mining concessions and running these concessions, especially since the whole mine is artisanal mining, done almost entirely by hand, the diplomat said.

(Reporting by Giulia Paravicini in Rubaya, Democratic Republic of Congo, and David Lewis in Goma. Additional reporting by Sonia Rolley in Paris and Jarrett Renshaw in Philadelphia. Editing by Marla Dickerson and Silvia Aloisi.)
When President Donald Trump toured Floridas so-called Alligator Alcatraz immigrant detention camp on July 1, he cast its location in the Big Cypress National Preserve as a remote and inhospitable place.

We have a lot of bodyguards and a lot of cops that are in the form of alligators, Trump told reporters. I wouldnt want to run through the Everglades for long.

Despite his description of a punishing landscape, there are Native Americans who have been living in the area for generations, including just adjacent to the controversial detention camp. On August 1, the Miccosukee Tribe joined a lawsuit filed against the project because, their intervening complaint alleged, the federal and state agencies involved in the construction of the camp were not adhering to required environmental review procedures. The complaint also specified that the tribe attaches historic, cultural, and spiritual significance to the areas affected by the construction and operation of the detention facility.

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Its an abomination to the whole concept of sovereignty, William Popeye Osceola, the secretary of the Miccosukee Tribes Business Council, toldTPM earlier this week during a conversation about their reasons for fighting the detention camp in court.

Along with general threats to the environment, Osceola said the construction, activity, and heavy vehicle traffic at the site cause harm to the tribes ceremonies.

For us, we have traditional practices, Osceola said. Our medicine men need access to a clear night sky for certain traditional practices.

Osceola also said that, while the Miccosukee reservation is about a 10 or 15 minute drive from the detention camp, there are tribe members who live in traditional camps far closer to the site. He suggested that the project would be disruptive to them and also raised safety concerns brought by the speedy hiring of security contractors at the site.

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The facility is about 900 feet down from a traditional village and, at that village, we do have kids who go to our school. So, our buses do go across that route as well, Osceola said. And just looking at history  not even just with native tribes, but just looking at the Middle East, for example, whenever youre bringing these outside security forces to a community, it doesnt turn out well.  Seeing how theyve kind of approached staffing, they dont seem to be looking for  theyre not sending their best. Lets just say that.

Along with the Miccosukee, the plaintiffs in the suit include two environmental groups, Friends of the Everglades and the Center for Biological Diversity. Those organizations originally filed the suit against a group of federal and local officials including Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie on June 27, days after plans for the detention camp were first announced. It alleged the project has gone through no environmental review as required under federal law, and the public has had no opportunity to comment. As they announced the litigation, the environmental groups described the detention camp as a risk to the sensitive wetlands.

This massive detention center will blight one of the most iconic ecosystems in the world, Elise Bennett, Florida and Caribbean director and attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity said. This reckless attack on the Everglades  the lifeblood of Florida  risks polluting sensitive waters and turning more endangered Florida panthers into roadkill. It makes no sense to build whats essentially a new development in the Everglades for any reason, but this reason is particularly despicable.

Of course, environmental issues are just one of the reasons this detention facility has attracted national headlines and vehement opposition. Attorneys and other advocates have alleged detainees are facing brutal conditions and abuses of due process at the site. TPM has previously documented how state agencies are evading transparency by dodging public records requests and hiding documents related to the project. Political opponents have also raised concerns about the high costs and manner in which contracts are being awarded. However, the environmental issues and the objections of the Miccosukee have been central to a key legal fight over the camp: Earlier this month, their suit resulted in a judges order halting construction at the site.

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The Miccosukee Tribes complaint echoes the claim that there was no Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment conducted in conjunction with the project as would be required for any major federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. It cites statements made by Trump during his tour, and argues that Florida has no authority or jurisdiction to enforce federal immigration law and that, as a result, the camp is necessarily subject to federal control and responsibility that triggers these environmental requirements.

To plaintiffs knowledge, no EA or EIS has been prepared by DHS, ICE, the [Florida Division of Emergency Management], or any cooperating agency, the tribes complaint says.

An aerial view of a migrant detention center, dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, is seen located at the site of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in Ochopee, Florida on July 7, 2025. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

In addition to the alleged lack of review, the complaint argues there was no opportunity for notice and comment by the tribe or the general public. It also accuses DHS and ICE of violating the National Historic Preservation Act, which has regulations that carve out a detailed consultation process for Native American Tribes.

The Tribes cultural resources and sites are historically and culturally interrelated and interconnected throughout its ancestral lands generally, the complaint says, adding, Both the state and federal governments are well aware  of the numerosity and significance of historic Tribal properties throughout Big Cypress.

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The detention camp was built after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) directed state officials to facilitate the construction of facilities to assist with Trumps mass deportation agenda. Based on this directive, state attorney general James Uthmeier, who was DeSantis chief of staff and presidential campaign manager before assuming his current role, proposed building what he dubbed Alligator Alcatraz at the defunct Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in the Big Cypress National Preserve. Florida is spending an estimated $450 million on the project but is expected to seek reimbursement from the Trump administration. State officials used emergency powers granted by an executive order that DeSantis signed in 2023  a response to what he described as an alarming influx of migrants  to quickly secure the funds and begin construction. Last month, TPM documented how contracts issued via the governors order and the Department of Emergency Management showed the high costs and rapid pace of the operation.

The Miccosukee Tribe is seeking a halt to further activity and construction at the site unless and until the government complies with the review processes it believes are required by federal regulations. Spokespeople for DeSantis, the Department of Homeland Security, and Floridas Department of Emergency Management did not respond to questions from TPM about the tribes arguments or whether an Environmental Impact Statement or Environmental Assessment have been conducted in conjunction with the project. In court, lawyers representing the state, county, and federal officials named in the suit have argued the facility is not subject to federal law because it is being constructed and operated by the state.

So far, the court has shown a degree of skepticism about these arguments from officials. On August 7, District Judge Kathleen Williams ordered the state to halt additional construction and excavation  including the installation of lighting  for 14 days.

I think that evidence is sufficient to support the plaintiffs claims, Williams said.

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Amid opposition to the Alligator Alcatraz project, DeSantis has claimed it will have zero impact on the Everglades. In court, the environmental groups presented a declaration from a pilot and ecologist who flew over the site and obtained photo evidence that, the plaintiffs said, indicated there were multiple areas of new road and asphalting. Before officials began removing documents from transparency databases, TPM also found indications of planned paving in a terminated contract associated with the facility.

Osceola, the secretary of the Miccosukee Tribes Business Council, noted he and other tribal leaders have not been allowed to inspect the site. However, Osceola said he has witnessed activity that calls the governors claims into question.

They dont allow us access inside.  They havent extended the invitation to us as a government, even though this is in our traditional lands, Osceola said. So, I have not seen anything like that firsthand, but I have seen the vehicles going by with fill and all this other equipment. As much as they try to hide it, its pretty obvious.

Osceola also explained to TPM how significant the forests and swamps around Big Cypress are to his tribe.

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Weve always known this part of the land. You know, we have certain medicine plants, pretty much wherever that medicine plant was found, that was considered our traditional ranging lands, Osceola said. After the Seminole Wars, thats when we settled here in the Everglades on a more permanent basis.

Osceola recounted how a Native American leader named Abiaka encouraged tribes to seek refuge in the swamps during those 19th Century conflicts, which raged as the U.S. government sought to remove indigenous people from Florida.

He is kind of like a Miccosukee Moses. He basically told our people, you know, Follow me  to the swamp.  Its going to protect us. Itll save us, Osceola recounted. They listened to him and he was right. So, for us, the Everglades are the only reason were here, Miccosukee and Seminole, the unconquered tribes of North America. Its because of the Everglades.

That history has left the Miccosukee with a deep commitment to protecting the land. Osceola noted this duty to conserve our land and resources for future generations is enshrined in the preamble of their tribal constitution.

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Its quite simple for us: we have to protect and save what protected and saved us, Osceola said. Theres really no other perspective other than that at the end of the day.

He claimed DeSantis was previously seen as an ally in the tribes fight to preserve the swamps.

I will give the governor credit for, you know, helping us pursue restoration of the Everglades. That is important, Osceola said. Its unfortunate that this is happening because its kind of undoing that progress,

While the Miccosukee have put in decades of work to protect these traditional lands, Osceola said the court fight is bigger than his people.

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We are trying to make sure our sovereign rights as worked on over the years with the governments around us are respected, Osceola said. Because if they can bypass the sovereign rights of one people, it gets easier to do that for all people.

Osceola said he hoped the tribes effort to take a stand here on our sovereign rights would serve as a guide to others with indigenous ties. He noted this includes some of the people here with indigenous backgrounds from Central or South America who are being detained as part of Trumps deportation push.

Its important to us to make sure that as long as there are indigenous people here, that we help each other out however we can that doesnt infringe on each others sovereignty, Osceola said.

Along with providing safety to the Miccosukee and other Native American groups who were persecuted by the U.S. government, the Everglades played host to so-called Black Seminoles who settled there to escape slavery and enjoyed friendly relations with the local tribes. Now, this place that once provided refuge to peoples who were targeted by official violence has become a site where they are being imprisoned. For his part, Osceola said the situation was not a surprise to us.

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The detention facility being put there so fast was a surprise, but the sense of history echoing isnt, said Osceola. If you look at this country, obviously, natives were the first to face the brunt of  I like to just call it American fascism, because thats what it was. Natives have always had to deal with that.

This post has been updated.
CONNECTICUT (WTNH)  A new feature on Instagram allowing users to share their location on the app is raising concerns with parents and public officials.

Connecticuts senior senator is calling it a safety hazard.

New TikTok challenge puts classmates in danger, Connecticut fire officials say

It may sound innocent and even useful, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) said in a press conference at New Havens Boys and Girls Club about the map feature. It exposes kids to pedophiles and traffickers.

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Instagrams parent company, Meta, stresses that users have to opt in. They say the default setting is to have location sharing turned off. Blumenthal says that does not seem to be the case.

Weve received complaints from young people who are alarmed that their location has been shared without their consent, he said.

If you follow your kids on social media in order to keep track of what theyre posting, and you have not seen your kids share their location, they might still be doing it. Thats because there is a feature with this map that allows users to share their location with just certain friends, and you might not be among them.

If you have friends that share their location, it mostly would say share with friends,' 14 year-old Daeshia Freeman said. But, I dont know. I wouldnt share my location on Instagram ever.

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Blumenthal says he wrote Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg a personal letter.

Saying that he should shut down this map menace. He should do it right away, Blumenthal said. Maybe go back to the drawing board, maybe theres a way to have geolocation sharing that is safe.

Or, he says, one with functioning parental controls.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Interim DeKalb Police Chief says officer killed in CDC attack saved countless lives

As people continue to stop by at the DeKalb County Police Department to leave their condolences over the shooting death of Officer David Rose, the departments interim chief got emotional while speaking before the DeKalb County Commission on Tuesday.

Interim Police Chief Gregory Padrick talked about how Rose sacrificed his life to save others as a gunman opened fire on the CDC on Friday.

There is no doubt in my mind that his actions that day saved countless lives, Padrick said.

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Rose was the first on the scene when Patrick White began shooting at the CDC. Police say White turned his attention to Rose, shooting him and killing him.

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He changed the trajectory of that shooter. He forced him to alter his plans, and that saved lives, Padrick told the commission.

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Police now say White turned the gun on himself, ending his life.

Padrick said Rose had only been with the department for 11 months but made a tremendous impact during that time.

Well always remember and honor his leadership, his legacy, and his ultimate sacrifice, Padrick said.

You have many unstable people in this society that will do exactly what this person did to Officer Rose, Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson said.

Roses death inspired Commissioner Nicole Massiah to create pins in Roses memory.

We are one DeKalb County, so we just wanted to make sure we had a solidarity pin, Massiah said.

Massiah is handing those pins out to officers, board members, and staff.

The chief said it was hard speaking to the board after losing such an incredible officer.
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  Sentaras internship program aims to help young college students decide whether their future is in healthcare, and while every part of the healthcare experience is important, you normally dont think of housekeeping as high on the list.

Rylie Winston, however, may be an outlier.

Winston, 19, a sophomore at James Madison University, is solidifying her spot in hospital administration thanks to the internship program at Sentara Health. Her supervisors say she is bringing a fresh eye to the environmental services unit.

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Considering Winstons background, you wouldnt think shed be interested in a job at a hospital.

My family actually owns a prom dress store, Winston said. But Ive been through a couple things with my family where family members have gone through health battles and hospice and hospitals.

Finding a niche in hospital administration, shes focusing right now on the environmental services team. She looks at data from patient surveys that rates patients satisfaction during their hospital stay and zeroes in on the housekeeping scores, and then she looks to improve them.

We want to ask them how the courtesy of our housekeeper was, the cleanliness of their room, Winston said.

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Going above and beyond, Winston has printed up flyers for each room with pictures of the cleaning staff so patients will recognize them. She has added notices to be posted in hospital rooms to let patients know when their room has been cleaned, and she also wants to make sure employees get the thanks they deserve.

Overall, I wanted to help boost team morale in the department, Winston said. I made some certificates and I put them up on the wall and I also created a monthly certificate system. So every two weeks, the people that have increased the most in their scores will get a certificate and a gift card to our Coffee Nook in the hospital.

Winston is one of 20 summer interns across Sentara working in areas like administration, finance, information technology and others. But these interns arent just getting coffee or filing paperwork.

When Rylie came in, I didnt have time to go up to the floors to see if I could see what was going on with the patients, said Jackie Griffin, Sentara Leighs housekeeping supervisor. But we made time together and we went up together. We talk to the patient. She asks the patient how the room was cleaned, was there anything else we could do for them.

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At the start, many interns may not be sure what path their lives will take, but by the end, they find making a difference in others lives is a real calling.

And I realized in those places, the people that worked there are truly rays of sunshine, Winston said. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone someday.

Winston said they have seen improvements in those scores. She graduates in two years and says she wants to go back and continue her work in hospital administration.

More information

To learn more about Sentaras internship program, visit https://www.sentaracareers.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 WAVY.com.
A rumor that circulated online in August 2025 claimed U.S. President Donald Trump, and the Republican Party, planned to federally act to reduce the age of consent for sexual activity, or the minimum age for marriage, to 14  matters historically controlled at the state level. Snopes received reader searches asking if this rumor was true.

Users' posts alleged Trump and Republicans pursued this matter to shield the president from facing charges related to his activities with deceased financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, specifically regarding unproven allegations that undisclosed government files regarding Epstein's past not only mention Trump's name but also say he engaged in sex with underage girls. Trump has previously denied knowledge and involvement in Epstein's crimes.

In one of the most prominent examples of users sharing the claim, on Aug. 11, content creator Monte Mader (@montemader) posted a three-minute video (archived) to their more than 1.5 million Instagram followers. The clip received over 2.3 million views. Mader also posted the video on Facebook (archived), TikTok (archived) and YouTube (archived), collectively earning nearly 700,000 additional views. Mader, the only person speaking in the clip, made numerous claims, including mentioning Trump's Aug. 11 press conference announcing his takeover of Washington's police department.

This partial transcript highlights Mader's primary assertions, which include alleging state governments in Missouri, New Hampshire, West Virginia and Wyoming drafted legislation to allow 14-year-olds to marry adults:

Donald Trump and Republicans are trying to reduce the age of consent for marriage to 14 years of age. In his press conference this morning, before he federally seized DC, he claimed that there were droves of violent teenagers causing crime, and that any person fourteen fourteen years old or up should be tried as an adult. But they are also changing the laws so that a 14-year-old girl would be eligible for marriage, and it would change how sex crimes are prosecuted. There are four states  Wyoming, Missouri, New Hampshire, and West Virginia  who have already written child marriage laws to allow for a 14 year old to marry a grown adult, and any age discrepancy that would be charged as a sex crime will no longer be a crime. ... And how convenient that now that we know that Trump is in the Epstein files, they are trying to legalize the age of the girls we know he slept with because there are victims who have testified about it.

However, searches of Bing, DuckDuckGo, Google and Yahoo located no news media outlets credibly confirming any developments about Trump and Republicans seeking to lower the age of consent for sex or marriage to 14. A review of Trump's posts on his own Truth Social social media platform found no announcements about this matter, either.

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Further, similar searches produced no documentation about governments in the four aforementioned states drafting legislation to allow children as young as 14 years old to marry adults. On the contrary, outlets reported that, in recent months or years, Missouri, New Hampshire, West Virginia and Wyoming either prohibited or tightened restrictions related to marriage for persons under age 18.

Content creator Vitus "V" Spehar, who manages the Under the Desk News organization, also shared videos promoting this claim on Facebook (archived), Instagram (archived) and TikTok (archived), collectively receiving around 4 million views. Other users also shared posts about the claim on Bluesky (archived), Facebook (archived), Instagram, Threads (archived), TikTok (archived) and X (archived).

In an email to Snopes, the White House called the rumor "fake." GOP National Press Secretary Kiersten Pels also said, "This smear is a blatant lie pushed by far-left media propagandists. No state in the U.S. allows 14yearolds to marry adults, and the false claim that Republicans are trying to change that has zero basis in fact." We further contacted Mader and Spehar via email and Instagram messages to request evidence to back up their claims, and will update this story if we receive more information.

Trump's Truth Social post about prosecuting teenagers

Mader's assertion, which claimed Trump said at his press conference he sought to prosecute alleged criminals age 14 and up as adults, referenced Trump's remarks from a Truth Social post from the previous week. On Aug. 5, Trump posted (archived), in part:

Crime in Washington, D.C., is totally out of control. Local "youths" and gang members, some only 14, 15, and 16-years-old, are randomly attacking, mugging, maiming, and shooting innocent Citizens, at the same time knowing that they will be almost immediately released. They are not afraid of Law Enforcement because they know nothing ever happens to them, but it's going to happen now! The Law in D.C. must be changed to prosecute these "minors" as adults, and lock them up for a long time, starting at age 14.

PolitiFact reported about some of Trump's claims regarding "totally out of control" crime in Washington, including the fact he made no mention of a drop in homicides from the year 2023 to 2024  a year with the lowest number of homicides since 2019, according to crime data hosted on Washington's Metropolitan Police Department website.

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For further reading, a previous fact-check article examined the claim Trump signed a law effective Aug. 1 that makes couples who have been in a relationship for five years automatically legally married. Another story reported Trump truly once called Epstein a "terrific guy," and added, "It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side."

Sources:

Boak, Josh, and David Klepper. "Trump Says He's Placing Washington Police under Federal Control and Activating the National Guard." The Associated Press, 11 Aug. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c.

Clara Bates. "Missouri Gov. Kehoe Signs Law Banning Child Marriage, after Years of Failed Efforts." KCUR - Kansas City News and NPR, Missouri Independent, 10 Jul. 2025, https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-07-10/missouri-child-marriage-ban-foster-kids-benefits.

Cullen, Margie. "Child Marriage Law Holds in NH as Senate Rejects Creating Exception for Some 17-Year-Olds." Portsmouth Herald, 17 May 2025, https://www.seacoastonline.com/story/news/politics/2025/05/17/no-child-marriage-in-nh-senate-rejects-exception-to-new-law/83666819007/.

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"District Crime Data at a Glance." Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), https://mpdc.dc.gov/dailycrime.

FindLaw Staff. "State-by-State Marriage 'Age of Consent' Laws." FindLaw, 4 Apr. 2016, https://www.findlaw.com/family/marriage/state-by-state-marriage-age-of-consent-laws.html.

Gurman, Sadie, et al. "Justice Department Told Trump in May That His Name Is Among Many in the Epstein Files." The Wall Street Journal, 23 Jul. 2025, https://www.wsj.com/politics/justice-department-told-trump-name-in-epstein-files-727a8038.

"LIVE: Trump Holds News Conference on Crime in D.C. | NBC News." YouTube, 11 Aug. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcS3wkDf4MU.

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Lusvardi, Amber. "Behind the Gaetz Scandal, There's a Bigger Issue: Most States Have Loopholes That Let Men Exploit Teenage Girls." The Washington Post, 13 Apr. 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/04/13/behind-gaetz-scandal-theres-bigger-issue-most-states-have-loopholes-that-let-men-exploit-teen-girls/.

Megerian, Chris, and Eric Tucker. "Trump Says Epstein 'stole' Young Women from Mar-a-Lago Spa, Including Virginia Giuffre." The Associated Press, 29 Jul. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-congress-ghislaine-maxwell-justice-department-3ca45e130deb5f2eee8deff36d99734f.

Raby, John. "West Virginia Bans Marriage for Children Age 15 or Younger." The Associated Press, 29 Mar. 2023, https://apnews.com/article/child-marriage-ban-west-virginia-713a340ee516c6377db7bb52a817d133.

Roll Call FiscalNote. "Roll Call Factba.Se - Press Conference: Donald Trump Announces Military Deployment in Washington - August 11, 2025." Roll Call Factba.se, 11 Aug. 2025, https://rollcall.com/factbase/trump/transcript/donald-trump-press-conference-law-enforcement-washington-dc-august-11-2025.

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"Trump Deflects Questioning on Epstein Files, Revives Old Grievances Instead." The Associated Press, 22 Jul. 2025, https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-7-22-2025.

Trump, Donald. "Crime in Washington, D.C., Is Totally out of Control." Truth Social, 5 Aug. 2025, https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114977985620971126.

Uribe, Maria Ramirez. "How Does DC's Homicide Rate Stack up Worldwide?" PolitiFact, 12 Aug. 2025, https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2025/aug/12/donald-trump/washington-dc-homicide-rate-international/.

"Wyoming Takes Steps to Limit Child Marriage." Tahirih Justice Center, 28 Feb. 2023, https://www.tahirih.org/news/wyoming-takes-steps-to-limit-child-marriage/.
A police operation was triggered in central Berlin when a man tried to get access to a synagogue and then tore down an Israeli flag outside.

Police were alerted on Tuesday afternoon when the man tried to enter the New Synagogue in the Mitte district despite being banned from the premises, according to a police statement.

When he was denied entry he ran to a memorial site in front of the building commemorating the Israeli hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza.

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According to the police, he pulled down an Israeli flag and threw it on the ground. The man now faces an investigation for, among other things, violating the symbols of foreign states and trespassing, police said.

The New Synagogue in Berlin, which opened in the mid-19th century, is used for Jewish services and exhibitions.
Simpson College and Grand View University will use grant funding from Prairie Meadows to expand their medical education technology. (Photo via Getty Images)

Iowa colleges are using grant funds from Prairie Meadows for medical education and more, with the casino providing dollars to organizations for their work in areas like arts and culture, economic development and education.

Building off a nearly $80,000 grant from 2024, Grand View University in Des Moines announced in a news release it received $30,000 this year to once again expand its educational equipment for nursing students.

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While the 2024 grant helped the university purchase a patient manikin for its nursing simulation suite, according to the release, this years funding will go toward the purchase of a simulated medication distribution cart to show students how to use the equipment theyll most likely see in hospitals once they start their career. The release stated funds will also be used to support an annual event for student athletes and their supporters held by Grand View.

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Simpson College in Indianola also received a nearly $10,000 grant from Prairie Meadows for buying additional human anatomical models, according to a news release, which will be utilized by students studying to enter a health science field.

Grand View University President Rachelle Keck said in the news release grant funding from Prairie Meadows is helping the university instill in students the skills needed to provide exceptional patient care.

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As Iowa experiences a shortage of nurses, Grand View is proud to partner with Prairie Meadows to ensure our nursing graduates are well-prepared to meet patient and community needs, Keck said in the release.

According to a list of grant recipients for the Prairie Meadows Legacy Grant program, Mercy College of Health Sciences also received a $650,000 grant for its school of nursing. Drake University received a legacy grant worth $600,000 for stadium renovations and another grant through the companys Community Betterment Grant program.

Other institutions that received community betterment grants include the Des Moines Area Community College Foundation and Des Moines University.

According to a news release from Prairie Meadows, the nonprofit organization dispensed more than $13 million through just over 400 grants, of which hundreds of thousands of dollars were allocated to colleges for capital projects and academic programs.

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Its an honor to invest in our community through these grant dollars, said Gary Palmer, president and CEO of Prairie Meadows, in the news release. Were committed to empowering local nonprofits that drive meaningful change and strengthen our communities. Giving back is part of who we are, and this funding reflects our support of organizations that uplift Iowans by bringing hope, opportunity, and lasting impact.

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AUTHORS NOTE: This story contains details from court documents that include allegations of sex crimes committed against a child victim. Due to the content of this story, discretion is advised before reading. If you know or suspect that someone is being abused sexually, please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1 (800) 656-4673.

WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL)  Formal charges have been filed against an Iowa Park man, accusing him of multiple sex crimes against a child victim.

Tommy Lee Leatherwood, 20, of Iowa Park, was first arrested on May 29 and charged with possession of child pornography and sexual performance by a child. He has been in the Wichita County Jail since his initial arrest.

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On August 6, a Wichita County grand jury returned an indictment against Leatherwood, charging him with a total of six counts of child sex crimes:

Possession with Intent to Distribute Child Pornography (x2)

Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child Under 14

Sexual Performance by a Child Under 14

Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (x2)

As of the publication of this story, Leatherwood remains held on bonds totaling $650,000.

According to the arrest affidavit, officers with the Iowa Park Police Department said they were assigned a cybertip in May 2025 regarding reports of child pornography being distributed using Instagrams messaging feature.

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Authorities said they traced the IP addresses of the two Instagram accounts and discovered that both belonged to Leatherwood. They said he was sending videos and images of apparent child sexual abuse material from one account to the other.

Court documents said that on May 28, police executed a search warrant at Leatherwoods residence. There, they discovered two cell phones that belonged to Leatherwood. They said the phones were sent to the Texas Department of Public Safety for extraction.

Police said once they received the extraction data from DPS, they discovered several videos and pictures from Leatherwoods phones that depicted sex acts between Leatherwood and a child victim. They said they learned that the videos were taken in November 2021, when the victim was 14 and Leatherwood was 17.

According to the affidavit, a forensic interview was conducted at Patsys House with the victim. The victim told the forensic interviewer that sexual incidents with Leatherwood occurred every night over the span of approximately four months.

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Court documents said that the victim told the forensic interviewer that they were unaware of any videos or photos that were taken during the sexual incidents involving Leatherwood.

This is a developing story. Stick with Texomas Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com.
DUBAI (Reuters) -Iran's parliament is ready to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) should international sanctions be reimposed by the United Nations, Iranian lawmaker Manouchehr Mottaki told Defapress on Wednesday.

This comment comes after European countries expressed their will to reimpose international sanctions on Iran to the UN, which they say they can do by invoking the UN snapback mechanism prior to its expiration in October.

(Reporting by Dubai Newsroom; Editing by Toby Chopra)
Gaza City has come under intense air attack, the territory's Hamas-run civil defence agency has said, as Israeli forces prepare to launch an operation to take over the city.

Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman, said the residential areas of Zeitoun and Sabra had been hit for three days causing "massive destruction to civilian homes", with residents unable to recover the dead and injured.

Meanwhile the UK, EU, Australia, Canada and Japan issued a statement saying "famine is unfolding in front of our eyes" and urged action to "reverse starvation".

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They demanded "immediate, permanent and concrete steps" to facilitate the entry of aid to Gaza. Israel denies there is starvation in Gaza.

It has accused UN agencies of not picking up aid at the borders and delivering it.

The joint statement also demanded an end to the use of lethal force near aid distribution sites and lorry convoys, where the UN says more than 1,300 Palestinians have been killed, mostly by the Israeli military.

Separately, the World Health Organization on Tuesday appealed to Israel to let it stock medical supplies to deal with a "catastrophic" health situation before it seizes control of Gaza City.

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"We all hear about 'more humanitarian supplies are allowed in' - well it's not happening yet, or it's happening at a way too low a pace," said Rik Peeperkorn, the agency's representative in the Palestinian territories.

"We want to as quickly stock up hospitals," he added. "We currently cannot do that. We need to be able to get all essential medicines and medical supplies in."

Israel's war cabinet voted on Monday to take over Gaza City, a move condemned at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council later that day. On Tuesday the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it was "at the beginning of a new state of combat".

The Israeli government has not provided an exact timetable on when its forces would enter the area. On Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's forces had been instructed to dismantle the "two remaining Hamas strongholds" in Gaza City and a central area around al-Mawasi.

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He also outlined a three-step plan to increase aid in Gaza, including designating safe corridors for aid distribution, as well as more air drops by Israeli forces and other partners.

On the ground, however, residents of Gaza City said they had come under unrelenting attack from the air. Majed al-Hosary, a resident in Zeitoun in Gaza City, told AFP that the attacks had been "extremely intense for two days".

"With every strike, the ground shakes. There are martyrs under the rubble that no one can reach because the shelling hasn't stopped," he said.

"It sounded like the war was restarting," Amr Salah, 25, told Reuters. "Tanks fired shells at houses, and several houses were hit, and the planes carried out what we call fire rings, whereby several missiles landed on some roads in eastern Gaza."

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The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said that 100 dead had been brought to hospitals across Gaza over the past 24 hours, including 31 people who were killed at aid sites. Five more people had also died of malnutrition, it added.

Israel has faced mounting criticism over the 22-month-long war with Hamas, with UN-backed experts warning of widespread famine unfolding in the besieged territory.

On Tuesday members of an international group of former leaders known as "The Elders" for the first time called the war in Gaza an "unfolding genocide" and blamed Israel for causing famine among its population.

Following a visit to the Gaza border, Helen Clark and Mary Robinson, a former prime minister of New Zealand and a former president of Ireland, said in a joint statement: "What we saw and heard underlines our personal conviction that there is not only an unfolding, human-caused famine in Gaza. There is an unfolding genocide."

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Palestinians flock to an area of western Gaza City during an aid drop. [Anadolu via Getty Images]

The statement mirrors those of leading Israeli rights groups, including B'Tselem, which said it had reached an "unequivocal conclusion" that Israel was attempting to "destroy Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip".

Israel strongly rejects the accusations, saying its forces target terrorists and never civilians, and that Hamas was responsible for the suffering in Gaza.

On Sunday, the IDF killed four Al Jazeera journalists in a targeted attack on a media tent in Gaza City, sparking widespread international condemnation. Two other freelance journalists were killed. The IDF said it had killed well-known reporter Anas al-Sharif, whom it alleged "served as the head of a terrorist cell in Hamas", and made no mention of the others.

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Media freedom groups said it had provided little evidence for its claims. Al Jazeera's managing editor said Israel wanted to "silence the coverage of any channel of reporting from inside Gaza".

Hamas killed more than 1,200 people and took 251 hostage in its attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. Israel's response in Gaza has killed at least 61,599 Palestinians, according to the health ministry, whose toll the UN considers reliable.
Israels siege of Gaza has led to a shortfall of medical supplies, with one US doctor telling the BBC he had to recycle pins and screws from patients who have died.

The World Health Organization has warned that Israels plan to take over Gaza City  part of a wider plan to take control of the whole enclave  could exacerbate an already catastrophic health emergency. According to the WHO, just 50% of hospitals are operating in the strip, with bed occupancy rates reaching 300% in one hospital.

Although Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not said when troops would enter Gaza City, his countrys forces have continued to pound the area, killing dozens in recent days.
We cant leave a single book in schools unchecked. They teach there in textbooks how to rape Jewish women and behead people, he said.

Israel needs to take full control over the Gaza Strip, Knesset Member Amit Halevi, deputy chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, said on Wednesday in an interview with Anat Davidov and Udi Segal on 103FM.

"Theres no such thing as partial control, he added.

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We cant leave a single book in schools unchecked. They teach over there in textbooks how to rape Jewish women and behead people. He stressed that Israel could not allow any form of governance in Gaza outside its control, stating, "The only candidate that should be in charge, in my opinion, is the State of Israel. Anything else means rebuilding Hamas."

Halevis comments came amid efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to revive a 60-day ceasefire plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, following the failure of talks in Doha last month and Israel's plans to assume full control over Gaza. Halevi confirmed the details during the interview.

Halevi also emphasized that partial agreements were no longer an option, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had recently stated. I heard the Prime Minister say in an interview yesterday that a partial deal is not on the table; its behind us, according to his statement, and I think in general, the talks in Doha, Cairo, and Washington only pushed the hostages further away, Halevi remarked.

On the other hand, military actions brought the hostages closer and brought us closer to victory. This is the key to our future here. I hope that despite the IDF chief of staffs opposition in the cabinet to this plan, it will be implemented quickly.

Israeli security forces raid and surround a building in the Maajin area, west of Nablus in the West Bank, during a military operation on July 23, 2025. (credit: NASSER ISHTAYEH/FLASH90)

Halevi raised concerns about the Palestinian curriculum in the West Bank, noting that it lacked proper oversight. We havent properly monitored the curriculum in the West Bank, and this needs to be fixed. Israel cannot afford the ideology of Israel-hatred in the schools there.

Tensions within Israel's military leadership

Amid tensions within Israels military leadership, Halevi expressed his worries about the public clashes between Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and Defense Minister Israel Katz. "Im concerned about these public clashes between the chief of staff and the defense minister, especially during wartime. There is one thing that is clear: the army must follow the orders of the political leadership, and woe to us if anyone thinks otherwise, Halevi said.

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He criticized the militarys handling of the situation, suggesting that it would be more effective for the defense minister to intervene. We all need to mature and set personal considerations aside; we are at war, Halevi remarked. The army, when it wants to, gives evasive answers. It would have been better to call the chief of staff and put him in his place. When the army opposes something, it evades and drags its feet, and thats very serious.

Halevi further stated that if the chief of staff could not work with the defense minister, he should step down. If the chief of staff cannot work with the defense minister, then he should hand over the keys, Halevi said. The chief of staff does not act on his own; the ministers office is responsible for him. The public elected the coalition that chose the minister, and that is the publics will.

Lastly, Halevi criticized the attorney-generals role in the government, calling her actions inappropriate. "Whats inappropriate is that the attorney-general travels to a government office, which is not private, but acts as if it is her private office, Halevi concluded.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Wednesday that his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu has lost the plot and that Israels planned occupation of Gaza City is utterly unacceptable.

Luxons comments come as his conservative coalition government weighs whether to join other members of the Five-Eyes security alliance, Australia, Britain and Canada, in moving to recognize a Palestinian state; and as international condemnation and anger builds over Israels recent decision to expand its war to take control of Gaza City, the throttling of aid and mass starvation in the enclave.

Luxon, who leads the right-leaning National Party, said Netanyahu is not listening to the international communitys demands for unfettered humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza.

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I think Netanyahu has gone too far. I think he has lost the plot. And I think what we are seeing overnight with the attack on Gaza City is utterly, utterly unacceptable, Luxon said, in some of his strongest comments against Israels actions in Gaza to date.

Netanhayus office has not yet responded to Luxons comment. But Israels Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel posted a response on X, saying: I guess when you dont really need an army because your most deadly enemy is a possum or a cat, you wouldnt comprehend the challenges that come with facing Hamas.

Israel has continued its intense aerial attacks on Gaza this week and Netanyahus planned military takeover of Gaza City, expected to force up to a million people to leave the city, has been widely condemned.

We have said a forcible displacement of people and an annexation of Gaza would be a breach of international law, said Luxon.

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Chaotic scenes continue to emerge from Gaza, with violence and starvation deepening amid Israels tight control of aid to the territory. At least 227 people  including 103 children  have died from malnutrition since the beginning of the war, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

Foreign ministers from dozens of countries on Tuesday jointly said that suffering has reached unimaginable levels and famine is unfolding before our eyes as they demand that Israel allow more aid into Gaza and permit humanitarian organizations to operate there.

Luxon is not the only western leader to openly criticize Israels Prime Minister in recent days. On Tuesday, Australias leader Anthony Albanese said he had spoken to Netanyahu but found him to be in denial about the human cost of the war in Gaza.

He (Netanyahu) again reiterated to me what he has said publicly as well, which is to be in denial about the consequences that are occurring for innocent people, Albanese told Australias public broadcaster ABC.

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Earlier this week, Australia announced it would move to recognize Palestinian statehood at the United National General Assembly meeting in September, leaving New Zealand as the only member of the Five Eyes security alliance, except the United States, not to pledge to do so. French President Emmanuel Macron has also said France will recognize a Palestinian state in an announcement to the United Nations General Assembly in September.

The urgent need today is to end the war in Gaza and to rescue the civilian population, said Macron in a July statement, reiterating calls for an immediate ceasefire, access to humanitarian aid for the population of Gaza, the release of all hostages and the demilitarization of Hamas.

Washington has found itself increasingly at odds with key western allies over Israel and how the war in Gaza is being conducted. Both Israel and the US have condemned moves to recognize a Palestinian state.

Luxon announced Monday that New Zealand would consider its position on recognizing a Palestinian state over the next month, prompting fierce criticism at home for what is considered by some to be a lack of action on Israel.

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Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, who went on to lead the United Nations Development Program after exiting domestic politics, lambasted Luxons coalition government on Tuesday for not moving quickly enough.

We now really seem to stand for nothing except you know, somehow wanting to save our own skin in a tariff war, she told New Zealands public broadcaster RNZ on Tuesday. I think its really quite a humiliating position for New Zealand to be in.

On Wednesday, Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick was kicked out of Parliament for refusing to apologize for comments she made suggesting coalition lawmakers grow a spine and support a bill to sanction Israel.

If we find six of 68 government MPs (members of Parliament) with a spine, we can stand on the right side of history, said Swarbrick Tuesday.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Emily Rose

CAIRO/JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel's military pounded Gaza City on Wednesday prior to a planned takeover, with another 123 people killed in the last day according to the Gaza health ministry, while militant group Hamas held further talks with Egyptian mediators.

The 24-hour death toll was the worst in a week and added to the massive fatalities from the nearly two-year war that has shattered the enclave housing more than 2 million Palestinians.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated an idea - also enthusiastically floated by U.S. President Donald Trump - that Palestinians should simply leave.

"Theyre not being pushed out, theyll be allowed to exit," he told Israeli television channel i24NEWS. "All those who are concerned for the Palestinians and say they want to help the Palestinians should open their gates and stop lecturing us."

Arabs and many world leaders are aghast at the idea of displacing the Gaza population, which Palestinians say would be like another "Nakba" (catastrophe) when hundreds of thousands fled or were forced out during a 1948 war.

Israel's planned re-seizure of Gaza City - which it took in the early days of the war before withdrawing - is probably weeks away, officials say. That means a ceasefire is still possible though talks have been floundering and conflict still rages.

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Israeli planes and tanks bombed eastern areas of Gaza City heavily, residents said, with many homes destroyed in the Zeitoun and Shejaia neighbourhoods overnight. Al-Ahli hospital said 12 people were killed in an airstrike on a home in Zeitoun.

Tanks also destroyed several houses in the east of Khan Younis in south Gaza too, while in the centre Israeli gunfire killed nine aid-seekers in two separate incidents, Palestinian medics said. Israel's military did not comment.

Eight more people, including three children, have died of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza in the past 24 hours, the territory's health ministry said. That took the total to 235, including 106 children, since the war began.

Israel disputes those malnutrition and hunger figures reported by the health ministry in the Hamas-run enclave.

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Hamas chief negotiator Khalil Al-Hayya's meetings with Egyptian officials in Cairo on Wednesday were to focus on stopping the war, delivering aid and "ending the suffering of our people in Gaza," Hamas official Taher al-Nono said in a statement.

CEASEFIRE POSSIBILITIES

Egyptian security sources said the talks would also discuss the possibility of a comprehensive ceasefire that would see Hamas relinquish governance in Gaza and concede its weapons.

A Hamas official told Reuters the group was open to all ideas if Israel ends the war and pulls out. However, "Laying down arms before the occupation is dismissed is impossible," the official, who asked not to be named, told Reuters.

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Netanyahu's plan to expand military control over Gaza, which Israeli sources said could be launched in October, has heightened global outcry over the widespread devastation, displacement and hunger in the enclave.

Twenty-four nations this week decried the "unimaginable levels" of suffering and urged Israel to allow unrestricted aid.

Israel accuses Hamas of stealing aid and says it has taken steps to increase supplies, including daily combat pauses in some areas and protected routes for convoys.

The Israeli military on Wednesday said that nearly 320 trucks entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings and that a further nearly 320 trucks were collected and distributed by the U.N. and international organizations in the past 24 hours along with three tankers of fuel and 97 pallets of air-dropped aid.

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But the U.N. and Palestinians say aid remains far from sufficient.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures. Israel's offensive against Hamas in Gaza since then has killed more than 61,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials.

Arab states and much of the international community want post-war Gaza to be governed by the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited governance in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The authority's foreign minister, Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, told reporters it was ready to assume full responsibility in Gaza. Hamas would have no role and be required to hand over arms, she added, calling for an international peacekeeping force and withdrawal by Israel.

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Hamas says it is ready to quit Gaza governance for a non-partisan technocratic entity agreed by all Palestinian parties.

Israel says it does not trust the PA to rule Gaza.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo and Emily Rose in Jerusalem. Additional reporting by Alexander Cornwell in Ramallah; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
By Emily Rose

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel's military has said it killed five armed militants in the Gaza Strip pretending to work for the U.S.-based World Central Kitchen charity which condemned anyone posing as humanitarian personnel

The military said it confirmed the five were not affiliated with the charity before killing them in an air strike last week while wearing WCK garb and posing a threat to Israeli troops.

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"The terrorists deliberately affixed the emblem and wore yellow vests in an attempt to conceal their activity and avoid being targeted, cynically exploiting the status and trust afforded to aid organizations," it said.

WCK said late on Tuesday that it was contacted by Israeli authorities and confirmed the vehicle and people were not linked. "We strongly condemn anyone posing as WCK or other humanitarians as this endangers civilians and aid workers," it said in a statement on X.

In December, WCK fired dozens of Palestinians working for the charity in Gaza, employees told Reuters at the time, after Israel said at least 62 staff were linked to militants.

Israel's military did not give any identities of those killed in last week's incident. The WCK did not give more details or say whether the people targeted had been previously affiliated with the organization.

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An Israeli strike in April of last year hit a convoy of three vehicles and killed seven staff of WCK, including foreign aid workers. Israel apologised for what it said was a mistake.

Aid organizations are struggling to meet the needs of Gaza's more than 2 million population after nearly two years of war have devastated the Palestinian enclave, killing tens of thousands of people and causing widespread hunger.

Israel has often said Hamas militants infiltrate aid groups, while humanitarian organizations have urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to ease aid restrictions.

(Reporting by Emily Rose; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Israel received a formal warning from United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that its military and security agencies faced being added to an annual "blacklist" of countries and groups believed to be committing acts of sexual violence in armed conflict.

Israel escaped inclusion in this year's U.N. Report on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, but Guterres wrote Danny Danon, Israeli Ambassador to the U.N., placing Israel on notice over "grave concerns" regarding allegations in the report of sexual violence by its security forces against Palestinians in Israeli detention.

In the letter, shared by Danon, Guterres warned that Israel was on watch and could be added to the blacklist in next year's report, saying consistently documented patterns had triggered "significant concerns."

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Guterres complained that Israel's consistent refusal to allow U.N. monitors access to verify abuse had made the task of making a "definitive determination regarding patterns, trends and systematicity" of sexual violence very problematic.

"I urge the government of Israel to take the necessary measures to ensure immediate cessation of all acts of sexual violence," he wrote.

Danon accused Guterres of spreading a serious accusation against the State of Israel, saying that in doing so, he had "again chosen to adopt baseless accusations, relying on biased publications."

"The U.N. should focus on the shocking war crimes of Hamas and the immediate release of all hostages. Israel will not be deterred from defending its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law," Danon said in a post on X.

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Inclusion on the list would place Israel in the same company as Hamas, which was confirmed on Tuesday to have earned a place on the list for the first time, both in relation to sexual violence perpetrated in the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks on Israel and against hostages in captivity.

Leading Israeli human rights group B'Tselem alleged routine meting out of sexual violence against Palestinian detainees by Israeli soldiers and guards in an August 2024 report that claimed the Israeli penal system operated a "network of torture camps."

In March, a report by the U.N.'s human rights watchdog accused Israel of increasing sexual violence against Palestinians and genocidal acts "through the systematic destruction of sexual and reproductive healthcare facilities," in Gaza and the West Bank.

The 49-page U.N. Human Rights Commission report, which was presented to Human Rights Council hearings in Geneva, detailed violations perpetrated against Palestinian women, men, girls and boys across the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

It said the abuses constituted "a major element in the ill-treatment of Palestinians and are part of the unlawful occupation and persecution of Palestinians as a group."
South Sudan has denied holding discussions with Israel about the potential resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza in the East African country.

The Associated Press news agency earlier reported that the two countries were engaged in talks over an Israeli proposal to forcibly transfer Palestinian residents from Gaza to South Sudan, citing six people familiar with the matter.

South Sudan firmly refutes recent media reports claiming that the Government of the Republic of South Sudan is engaged in discussion with the State of Israel regarding the resettlement of Palestinian Nationals from Gaza in South Sudan, the foreign ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

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It said the claims are baseless and do not reflect the official position or policy of the South Sudanese government.

Several Israeli officials have proposed the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza  a move human rights groups warn would amount to forcible expulsion, ethnic cleansing, and would violate international law.

Critics of the transfer plan fear Palestinians would never be allowed to return to Gaza and that mass departure could pave the way for Israel to annex the enclave and re-establish Israeli settlements there, as called for by far-right ministers in the Israeli government.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously said he wants to advance what he calls voluntary migration for much of Gazas population, a policy he has linked to previous statements of United States President Donald Trump.

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I think that the right thing to do, even according to the laws of war as I know them, is to allow the population to leave, and then you go in with all your might against the enemy who remains there, Netanyahu said on Tuesday in an interview with i24, an Israeli TV station. He did not make reference to South Sudan.

The AP reported that Israel and the US have floated similar proposals with Sudan, Somalia, and the breakaway region of Somaliland.

Egypt, which shares a border with Gaza, has strongly opposed any forced transfer of Palestinians out of the enclave, fearing a refugee influx into its territory.





South Sudan has struggled to recover from a civil war that broke out shortly after independence in 2011, killing nearly 400,000 people and leaving parts of the country facing famine. It already hosts a large refugee population from conflicts in neighbouring countries.

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South Sudanese civil society leader Edmund Yakani told the AP that the country should not become a dumping ground for people  and it should not accept to take people as negotiating chips to improve relations.

Joe Szlavik, founder of a US lobbying firm working with South Sudan, said he was briefed by South Sudanese officials on the talks.

According to Szlavik, the country wants the Trump administration to lift a travel ban and remove sanctions on some South Sudanese elites.

Peter Martell, a journalist, said cash-strapped South Sudan needs any ally, financial gain and diplomatic security it can get.

The Trump administration has previously pressured several countries to accept deportations, and South Sudan has already taken in eight individuals removed from the US under the administrations mass deportation policy.
Overnight temperatures in Israel reached a new record high, with 36.6 degrees Celsius recorded on the Dead Sea, the meteorological service said on Wednesday as the country braces for the peak of the current heatwave.

The highest "minimum temperature" since records began was measured in the east of the country on Mount Sodom along the Dead Sea on Tuesday night, surpassing the previous record of 35.5 degrees, the Jerusalem Post reported, citing the Israel Meteorological Service.

The Dead Sea, which sits on the Israel-Jordan border, is located around 430 metres below sea level - the lowest accessible point on Earth.

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Mount Sodom is located on the south-western shore of the Dead Sea and was named after the biblical site of the same name.

Much of Israel is sweltering in extreme heat, with the authorities having issued a number of warnings urging people to stay inside.

The current heatwave is expected to reach its peak later on Wednesday, with temperatures in some inland regions forecast to hit 50 degrees.
Israel is in discussions with South Sudan about the possibility of resettling Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to the war-torn East African country, part of a wider effort by Israel to facilitate mass emigration from the territory left in ruins by its 22-month offensive against Hamas.

Six people familiar with the matter confirmed the talks to The Associated Press. Its unclear how far the talks have advanced, but if implemented, the plans would amount to transferring people from one war-ravaged land at risk of famine to another, and raise human rights concerns.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he wants to realize US President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population through what Netanyahu refers to as voluntary migration. Israel has floated similar resettlement proposals with other African nations.

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I think that the right thing to do, even according to the laws of war as I know them, is to allow the population to leave, and then you go in with all your might against the enemy who remains there, Netanyahu said Tuesday in an interview with i24, and Israeli TV station. He did not make reference to South Sudan.

Palestinians, rights groups, and much of the international community have rejected the proposals as a blueprint for forcible expulsion in violation of international law.

For South Sudan, such a deal could help it build closer ties to Israel, now the almost unchallenged military power in the Middle East. It is also a potential inroad to Trump, who broached the idea of resettling Gazas population in February but appears to have backed away in recent months.

The office of Israels Deputy Foreign Minister, Sharren Haskel, said she was arriving in South Sudan for meetings in the first visit there by a senior government official, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

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South Sudans ministry of foreign affairs in a statement called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless. These claims are baseless and do not reflect the official position or policy of the Government of the Republic of South Sudan, the ministry said in a statement.

A US State Department spokesperson said it doesnt comment on private diplomatic conversations.

Egypt opposes proposals to resettle Palestinians out of Gaza

Joe Szlavik, the founder of a US lobbying firm working with South Sudan, said he was briefed by South Sudanese officials on the talks. He said an Israeli delegation plans to visit the country to look into the possibility of setting up camps for Palestinians there. No known date has been set for the visit. Israel did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation of the visit.

Szlavik said Israel would likely pay for makeshift camps.

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Edmund Yakani, who heads a South Sudanese civil society group, said he had also spoken to South Sudanese officials about the talks. Four additional officials with knowledge of the discussions confirmed talks were taking place on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss them publicly.

Two of the officials, both from Egypt, told AP theyve known for months about Israels efforts to find a country to accept Palestinians, including its contact with South Sudan. They said theyve been lobbying South Sudan against taking the Palestinians.

Egypt is deeply opposed to plans to transfer Palestinians out of Gaza, with which it shares a border, fearing an influx of refugees into its own territory.

The AP previously reported on similar talks initiated by Israel and the US with Sudan and Somalia, countries that are also grappling with war and hunger, and the breakaway region of Somalia known as Somaliland. The status of those discussions is not known.

Cash-strapped South Sudan needs any ally

Szlavik, whos been hired by South Sudan to improve its relations with the United States, said the US is aware of the discussions with Israel but is not directly involved.

Smoke billows during air strikes in central Khartoum as the Sudanese army attacks positions held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) throughout the Sudanese capital on October 12, 2024. - AFP/Getty Images

South Sudan wants the Trump administration to lift a travel ban on the country and remove sanctions from some South Sudanese elites, said Szlavik. It has already accepted eight individuals swept up in the administrations mass deportations, in what may have been an effort to curry favor.

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The Trump administration has pressured a number of countries to help facilitate deportations.

Cash-strapped South Sudan needs any ally, financial gain and diplomatic security it can get, said Peter Martell, a journalist and author of a book about the country, First Raise a Flag.

Israels Mossad spy agency provided aid to the South Sudanese during their decades-long civil war against the Arab-dominated government in Khartoum ahead of independence in 2011, according to the book.

The State Department, asked if there was any quid pro quo with South Sudan, said decisions on the issuing of visas are made in a way that prioritizes upholding the highest standards for US national security, public safety, and the enforcement of our immigration laws.

From one hunger-stricken conflict zone to another

Many Palestinians might want to leave Gaza, at least temporarily, to escape the war and a hunger crisis bordering on famine. But they have roundly rejected any permanent resettlement from what they see as an integral part of their national homeland.

A child cries as Palestinians gather to receive a hot meal at a food distribution point in the Nuseirat camp for refugees in the central Gaza Strip on May 24. - Eyad Baba/AFP/Getty Images

They fear that Israel will never allow them to return, and that a mass departure would allow it to annex Gaza and reestablish Jewish settlements there, as called for by far-right ministers in the Israeli government.

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Still, even those Palestinians who want to leave are unlikely to take their chances in South Sudan, among the worlds most unstable and conflict-ridden countries.

South Sudan has struggled to recover from a civil war that broke out after independence, and which killed nearly 400,000 people and plunged pockets of the country into famine. The oil-rich country is plagued by corruption and relies on international aid to help feed its 11 million people  a challenge that has only grown since the Trump administration made sweeping cuts to foreign assistance.

A peace deal reached seven years ago has been fragile and incomplete, and the threat of war returned when the main opposition leader was placed under house arrest this year.

Palestinians in particular could find themselves unwelcome. The long war for independence from Sudan pitted the mostly Christian and animist south against the predominantly Arab and Muslim north.

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Yakani, of the civil society group, said South Sudanese would need to know who is coming and how long they plan to stay, or there could be hostilities due to the historical issues with Muslims and Arabs.

South Sudan should not become a dumping ground for people, he said. And it should not accept to take people as negotiating chips to improve relations.

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South Sudans cabinet has agreed to receive Palestinians from the Gaza Strip following a request from Israel, The Telegraph has learnt.

A foreign ministry official in Juba said the government had approved the request as part of a deal which also involved the US.

The move comes as Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, is attempting to revive the controversial idea of voluntary resettlement of civilians from the enclave.

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On Wednesday, South Sudan described claims of a deal as baseless and not reflective of official government policy.

However, it has been claimed that the government has in fact agreed to work with Israel, raising the potential of a serious row from countries who oppose any suggestion of resettlement of Gazans.

The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has prompted discussions about relocating civilians - Omar al-Qattaa/Getty Images

A South Sudanese foreign ministry source claimed that the UAE would provide funding, but this was categorically denied by the state.

Meanwhile, America would lift sanctions on South Sudan, and Israel would invest in health and education.

The South Sudanese land is enough to host more people from different nations, and also its good for the South Sudanese to open wide the window for external business to grow the economy, the official said.

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He added that the deal had been agreed by the cabinet but faced stiff opposition elsewhere, meaning the government was unwilling to acknowledge it.

This kind of deal is not easy for South Sudanese to understand right now and also we have a very complex political situation in South Sudan, he said.

On Tuesday evening, South Sudanese politicians voiced their unease over the plan.

One MP told The Telegraph that the matter had been discussed in Parliament but rejected by a majority of parliamentarians.

He said: I myself reject it because South Sudan is a very young country. We are not able to feed ourselves, how can we get more people to live with us?

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In the next meeting we are going to reject it again from the Parliament. This idea is unacceptable to us.

South Sudan is a very young country and in need of money to rebuild after years of instability - Sally Hayden/SOPA Images

The debate came as Sharren Haskel, Israels deputy foreign minister, arrived in Juba to sign a memorandum of understanding on bilateral consultations.

It followed a visit by the South Sudanese deputy foreign minister to Israel last week, and a report by Associated Press, citing six sources, claiming that talks on the resettlement of Gazans to the African state were progressing.

Israel has repeatedly come under fire for raising the possibility of relocating Gazans from their homeland, prompting allegations of ethnic cleansing.

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Moving them from one land already ravaged by war and famine to another would only amplify that concern.

Voluntary relocation

News of the possible South Sudan deal broke after Mr Netanyahu appeared on Israeli television to revive discussion about relocating civilians from the Strip.

The idea was first proposed by Donald Trump, the US president, in February. He said the population should be removed and Gaza completely redeveloped to become part of what he envisaged as a riviera in the Middle East.

The Israeli government has floated the idea of relocation, but always said that it should be voluntary.

Give them the opportunity to leave, first of all, combat zones, and generally to leave the territory, if they want, said Mr Netanyahu on Tuesday, in comments that did not mention South Sudan.

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We will allow this, first of all within Gaza during the fighting, and we will certainly allow them to leave Gaza as well.

He likened the situation to Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan, all of which had seen large exoduses as a result of war.

Numerous foreign capitals and international bodies have previously warned against the plan, with some questioning if resettlement from Gaza could be considered genuinely voluntary, given the catastrophic damage to infrastructure and the dire humanitarian situation.

They have also voiced fears that voluntarily displaced Palestinians would not be allowed to return, citing comments made by Mr Netanyahus ultra-nationalist coalition partners calling for the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in Gaza.

Palestinians displaced by the Israeli offensive shelter in a tent camp on a beach in Gaza - Mahmoud Issa/Reuters

A feature of the recent Operation Gideons Chariots, Israels new ground offensive, has been the wide-scale demolition of residential buildings. It is likely the same tactic will be used in the upcoming assault on Gaza City, confirmed last week.

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Forcibly displacing a population could be considered a war crime.

Investigating feasibility

The Associated Press reported multiple sources as confirming the current talks between Israel and South Sudan.

Joe Szlavik, founder of a US lobbying company working for South Sudan, also said that he had been briefed by officials on the talks.

He said an Israeli delegation planned to visit the country to investigate the feasibility of setting up camps.

Ms Haskels trip is the first official visit to South Sudan by an Israeli government representative.

In a statement, she said: While the international community is focused solely on Gaza, South Sudan is facing a real humanitarian crisis and the threat of genuine famine.

Obvious destinations

As neighbours with formal relations with Israel, Egypt and Jordan would be the most obvious destinations for any departing Palestinians.

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However, both have staunchly opposed any such scheme, despite significant pressure from Mr Trump.

Israel is said to have held talks with Indonesia, Libya, Ethiopia, Somalia and Somaliland about the possibility of accepting Gazans, but it was reported that these had not borne fruit.

South Sudan is in desperate need of foreign cash to help itself rebuild after years of instability and war with Sudan, its Arab-dominated neighbour.

It has been reported that they accepted help from Israels Mossad spy agency during their civil war with Khartoum.

Emigration inevitable

South Sudan also wants Mr Trump to lift the US travel ban on the country.

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But Egypt has reportedly lobbied South Sudan not to co-operate with Israel on the scheme.

In recent months, Mr Trump has sounded sanguine about the chances of his riviera scheme coming off, with all current indications being that his administration now favours an Arab-led temporary administration for Gaza, once the war has ended.

Mr Trump previously shared AI images envisaging the Gaza Strip as a riviera in the Middle East

Shany Mor, a former director for foreign policy on Israels national security council and now a lecturer at Reichman University, said that a certain amount of emigration was inevitable.

When this war ends, Gaza will be in such a terrible state that it is impossible to see how it even begins to recover without some large, even temporary migration, he said.

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It wont be the agreed policy of the Arab administration, but it will definitely happen to a limited but significant extent.

The Jewish states international reputation has taken a battering in recent weeks over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Britain, France and a number of other prominent allies of Israel have promised to recognise Palestine, in moves branded a reward for terrorism.

Christopher Luxon, the prime minister of New Zealand, said on Wednesday that Mr Netanyahu had lost the plot, describing the planned occupation of Gaza City as utterly unacceptable.

Meanwhile, the UN has put Israel and Russia on notice over conflict-related sexual violence accusations.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
At least 100 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza since dawn, according to medical sources, with Al Jazeeras team on the ground reporting the intensification of strikes on the northern parts of the besieged enclave, where 61 people were killed in Gaza City alone.

Israeli air strikes on groups trying to secure the distribution of aid north of Gaza City killed at least 12 people on Wednesday.

At least 37 people desperately seeking any food for their families were killed by Israeli fire, including 16 killed near an aid point north of Rafah, according to the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza and another 14 killed and 113 wounded by Israelis forces waiting for aid in the north, according to the Gaza Emergency and Ambulance Service.

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In the last 24-hour reporting period, at least eight people, including three children, died from Israeli-imposed starvation and malnutrition, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths since the war began in October 2023 to 235, among them 106 children, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday.

Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), described the deaths as the latest in the war on children and childhood in Gaza.

This is in addition to: over 40,000 children reported killed or injured due to bombardment and airstrikes, at least 17,000 unaccompanied and separated children, and one million deeply traumatised children and out of education, he wrote in a post on X.

Children are children. No one should stay silent when children die, or are brutally deprived of a future, wherever these children are, including in Gaza.

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Gazas healthcare system has also been the subject of targeted destruction by the Israeli military, which amounts to medicide, UN experts said Wednesday, accusing Israel of deliberately attacking and starving healthcare workers, paramedics and hospitals to wipe out medical care in the enclave.

As human beings and UN experts, we cannot remain silent about the war crimes committed before our eyes in Gaza, said Tlaleng Mofokeng, special rapporteur on the right to health, and Francesca Albanese, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967.

In addition to bearing witness to an ongoing genocide, we are also bearing witness to a medicide, a sinister component of the intentional creation of conditions calculated to destroy Palestinians in Gaza, which constitutes an act of genocide, the experts said.

Health and care workers have been continuously targeted, detained, tortured and are now, like the rest of the population, being starved, they added.

Ceasefire talks to restart

As the death toll continues to rise in Gaza from Israels attacks and its punishing blockade, a delegation from the Palestinian group Hamas was scheduled to begin discussions in Egypt over a potential ceasefire on Wednesday.

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The previous round of indirect ceasefire talks in Qatar ended in deadlock in late July, after Israel and the United States withdrew their delegations hours after Hamas submitted its response to a truce proposal.

The talks in Cairo will focus on ways to stop the war, deliver aid, and end the suffering of our people in Gaza, Hamas official Taher al-Nono said.

Israeli soldiers look at destroyed buildings in the northern Gaza Strip as they stand at a viewpoint in Israel on August 13, 2025 [Amir Levy/Getty Images]

A Palestinian official familiar with the negotiations told the news agency Reuters that Hamas believes negotiation is the only way to end the war and is open to discuss any ideas that would secure an end to the war.

A Hamas representative also told Reuters the group was willing to hand over governance of Gaza to a non-partisan committee, but would not give up its weapons before a Palestinian state is established.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised to continue the war until Hamas is destroyed.

Israeli military plan to seize Gaza City

Israeli forces have carried out a days-long intensive assault on Zeitoun, one of Gaza Citys largest neighbourhoods, destroying more than 300 homes in the past three days, Wafa news agency says, citing Gazas Civil Defence.

The neighbourhood has faced continuous bombardment and demolitions since Tuesday. Civil Defence officials said entire families were killed when their homes were blown up without warning using high-explosive bombs that also levelled surrounding buildings.

Israels security cabinet last week approved plans to seize Gaza City and forcibly displace hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to concentration zones, despite international condemnation from the United Nations and dissent from within Israels own military.

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However, earlier Wednesday, the military said its chief of staff, Eyal Zamir, had signed off on the main framework for the operational plan during a meeting with top commanders, Shin Bet representatives and senior officers.

According to the statement, Zamir emphasised the importance of increasing troop readiness and preparedness for reserve recruitment, while conducting proficiency training and providing breathing space ahead of the upcoming missions.





Al Jazeeras Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, said Israeli forces appeared to be in the preparatory stage of the expanded invasion, hitting multiple neighbourhoods overnight.

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Explosions [were] clearly heard from the eastern part of Gaza City, particularly near the Zeitoun neighbourhood and surrounding areas as far as the Sabra neighbourhood, Mahmoud reported. Seven people were reported killed overnight from a mixture of heavy artillery and air strikes targeting major residential clusters.

In the citys Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood, three more people were reportedly killed as they fled the area.

Mahmoud said the Zikim crossing, the main entry point for aid in northern Gaza, had become deadly for Palestinians, with limited aid trucks allowed through despite crowds of desperate people.

More people are dying there, either from deliberate Israeli military fire or from the stampede, he said.

A Palestinian girl cries as she tries to receive cooked meals along with others from a food distribution centre in Gaza City on August 13, 2025 [AFP]

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Mahmoud added that there was growing international condemnation of Israel for creating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but no change on the ground.

They gave permission for some aid trucks to enter Gaza, to create a media buzz that there is food coming in, he said. But that has nothing to do with whats going on  more people are still dying on a daily basis of enforced starvation.




(Reuters) -The Israeli military said on Wednesday that chief of staff Eyal Zamir has approved the 'main concept' for an attack plan in the Gaza Strip.

Israel has said it will launch a new offensive and seize control of Gaza City, which it captured shortly after the war's outbreak in October 2023 before pulling out.

(Reporting by Ahmed Elimam; editing b y Michael Georgy)
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney faced criticism for failing to promptly condemn the assault of a Jewish man walking with his children in a Montreal suburb on Friday.

The man was walking with his three children in a park when an unknown individual approached and sprayed them with water. The assailant then physically assaulted the father, knocking him to the ground and tossing his kippah away, a traditional skullcap worn by observant Jewish men.

On Monday, police in Montreal announced the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect in connection with the assault, an incident that has fueled growing calls for the Canadian government to crack down on rampant antisemitism.

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Canadas Antisemitism Envoy Resigns, Citing Exhaustion Amid Hate Surge

"Canada had the chance to change course after the disaster of [former Prime Minister Justin] Trudeaus tenure, but instead chose to continue marching toward the abyss. It is beyond doubt that a violent incident like the one we witnessed in Montreal draws direct inspiration from the tailwind Canadas government, de facto, gives to Hamas," Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Amichai Chikli told Fox News Digital.

"Canada is not yet at the stage of Belgium or the U.K.both of which have become extremely dangerous for Jewsbut it is headed there, slowly and inexorably," he added.

Read On The Fox News App

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Carney commented on the incident at 11 p.m. Saturday  roughly a day and a half later  after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar publicly criticized Ottawas response.

Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Amichai Chikli condemned the attack on a Jewish man in Montreal.

"The attack on a Jewish father in Montreal late yesterday, in front of his own children, is an appalling act of violence. Everyone in Canada has an inalienable right to live in safety," Carney posted on X.

Saar had called him out on X, writing, "The incident shown in this video is shocking and stomach-turning. ... These are images reminiscent of dark periods of Jewish persecution. This is appalling.

"The Canadian government must do more to fight antisemitism!" he added.

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Although Jews account for less than 1% of Canadas population, antisemitism was behind 18.8% of all reported hate crimes in 2024. Of the 1,342 incidents classified as religiously motivated, 920, or 68.5%, were directed at the Jewish community.

Richard Robertson, director of research and advocacy at Bnai Brith Canada, noted that just a week earlier a synagogue in Victoria, British Columbia, had been defaced with antisemitic threats, underscoring that Jew-hatred has become a nationwide problem.

Faith Under Fire: Netanyahu Calls Out Efforts To Divide Christians And Israel In Us

"As the situation continues to devolve, Jewish Canadians do not need to be placated with mere lip service. We need our leaders to take clear and unequivocal positions and work vigorously to facilitate change. Anything less only serves to further embolden and enable the vitriolic cohort of our society that continues to attack our community," Robertson told Fox News Digital.

A man fixes the lock of the doors of Congregation Beth Tikvah as police investigate an alleged arson at the synagogue in the suburb of Dollard-des-Ormeaux in Montreal on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024.

"What happened in Montreal on Friday afternoon was absolutely horrific. It must serve as a wake-up call for the entire city. This is what happens when civic leaders permit an atmosphere where hateful thugs feel as if they can act with impunity," he said.

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The attack occurred amid a broader climate of intense antisemitism, which recently led Deborah Lyons, Canadas special envoy on Holocaust remembrance and combating antisemitism, to resign in July  three months before her term ended  citing physical and emotional exhaustion.

It also took place against a backdrop of strained Canada-Israel relations. Canada is one of four countries, alongside France, Australia and the United Kingdom, that have announced their intention to recognize a Palestinian state.

Canada's former ambassador to Israel, Vivian Bercovici, told Fox News Digital that its difficult to discuss the past two years of rising antisemitism in Canada without looking back to October 2015, when former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was first elected prime minister.

"In my view, Trudeaus approach to the conflict was very unsophisticated. He had a very quickly growing Muslim population in Canada, and he was careful not to do anything to alienate those voters," Bercovici said.

Anti-Israel protesters holding antisemitic posters in Alberta, Canada, on April 13, 2025.

According to Statistics Canada, the share of the population identifying as Muslim more than doubled over 20 years, increasing from 2.0% (579,640 people) in 2001 to 4.9% (1,775,715 people) in 2021.

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"What weve seen, as in many other parts of the West, is that they have come and demanded that we change to accommodate them  that we change the way we do things. Some of their most consistent demands concern Israel and Jewish communities, which have increasingly become targets," Bercovici said.





Original article source: Israeli minister warns Canada is 'marching toward the abyss' after Jewish man attacked in front of children
KATHMANDU, Aug 13: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has accused opposition parties of diverting attention from the countrys real issues and using parliament to create false narratives as content for social media.

Speaking on contemporary political matters after briefing the House of Representatives about his Turkmenistan visit on Wednesday, he said the government is being distracted with meaningless topics instead of facing constructive questions.

This esteemed House, which should focus on the interests of the country and its people, is being misused to create false stories, generate confusion, and serve as a hub for social media content, PM Oli said. This is not for the nations prosperity; it is intended to mislead young people through criticism, ridicule, and provocation to incite society.

Related story Desperate search for missing girls as nearly 80 dead in Texas f...

He expressed objection to attempts to portray political retaliation against a single person in cooperative cases, while hundreds are under investigation.

The time will hold accountable those who try to escape justice through mob-driven interference, he said. Following such mobs is not just surprising, it is also pitiful.

PM Oli emphasized that the current government is based on strong parliamentary mathematics and that rumors like it will fall today, it will fall tomorrow are being spread to weaken it.

No matter how much instability is desired, this political equation will continue until the 2084 BS elections, he added.

In his address, the PM highlighted government achievements over the past year. He cited examples such as the discovery of 112 billion cubic meters of gas in Dailekh with plans to begin production within a year, the start of iron mining in Dhauwadi, Nawalparasi, and the integration of roads in Simikot, Humla, as government priorities.

Earlier, he briefed Parliament on his participation in the third UN conference of landlocked developing countries held in Turkmenistan.

As the chair of the group of least developed nations, he said that he drew global attention to infrastructure deficits, high transportation costs, and climate change issues.

He also expressed confidence that bilateral meetings with the President of Turkmenistan, the Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres helped strengthen Nepals international relations.
Italy is introducing severe penalties for anyone disposing of rubbish illegally from a vehicle, with the fines applying to locals and visitors alike.

Under a regulation coming into force on Saturday, drivers may face fines of up to 18,000 ($21,000) for throwing a bag of rubbish out of their car window onto the street or roadside.

The fines apply whether the car is stationary or moving.

For smaller items such as tissues, plastic bottles or cigarette butts, you can face potential fines of up to 1,188.

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If drivers dispose of their rubbish in a nature reserve or other protected area, they can also lose their licence or be sentenced to prison.

Furthermore, offenders will no longer need to be caught in the act by police, as it will be enough if the offence is recorded by one of the many surveillance cameras present across Italy.

Rubbish on many roads

In Italy, rubbish is often simply dumped on streets, both in urban areas and on country roads and motorways.

In some places, including popular tourist areas, streets resemble rubbish dumps.
More than 4,500 sailors and Marines aboard the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit will depart Thursday from Naval Station Norfolk and Camp Lejeune to begin a regularly scheduled deployment.

The deployment follows the recent completion of a three-week training exercise.

Sailors and Marines comprise the force aboard the three amphibious ships: the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima and the two San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships USS San Antonio and USS Fort Lauderdale.

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Together, the three ships comprise Amphibious Squadron 8.

The Commander of Amphibious Squadron 8 is Capt. Christopher M. Farricker. He assumed the role during a ceremony aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story on Dec. 5.

Emma Rose Brown, 757-805-2256, emma.brown@virginiamedia.com
New York Senator Chuck Schumer appointed John F. Kennedys grandson Jack Schlossberg to the America 250 Commission.

I am so proud to appoint Jack to the America 250 Commission, which will be in charge of how we celebrate our great 250th birthday, Schumer said in a video announcement yesterday. Why am I putting Jack there? We know that Donald Trump will try to aggrandize the whole thing and make it part of him and his ego. The Senator continued, speaking to Schlossberg, Theres no better person to push back on that than you, Jack. I know you will be there and make sure that when we celebrate our 250th birthday, we remember that America is a nation of justice, equal justice, of unity, E Pluribus Unum, of treating everybody with dignity.

In response, Schlossberg said to Schumer, Thank you, Senator, for this honor, for your leadership, the honor of this appointment. We are the heirs of our first revolution, 250 years ago. At our best moments, our country has lived up to our founding documents but we have not always come through. And right now, our civil rights are under attack, equal justice is under attack, scientific progress is under attack, and I want to make sure we celebrate our country for all of its colors, and theres no more important task than celebrating our history for the sake of our future.

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At the end of the video, Schlossberg told Schumer, Ill make you proud, and then referenced the Hamilton musical, saying, and to quote our founding father, I am young, scrappy, and hungry, and I am not going to throw away this shot. Watch the full announcement here:

Im thrilled to announce Im appointing Jack Schlossberg @JBKSchlossberg to the America 250 Commission.



We need someone who will make sure America's 250th birthday celebrates our nation and our values.



And I cant think of a better person than Jack to take on that mission. pic.twitter.com/W6cAdJQRqH  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) August 12, 2025

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission, also called the America 250 Commission, was established in 2016 to oversee planning for the anniversary. This year, President Trump also created the White House Task Force on Celebrating Americas 250th Birthday, also referred to as the Salute to America 250 Task Force, making himself the chair and Vice President JD Vance the vice chair.

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JACKSON, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Kentucky community in mourning is showing up for each other to pay respects in the wake of 10-year-old Jayden Spicers passing.

Spicers body was found on Aug. 12 in a shallow grave near Joe Little Fork after a nearly week-long search carried out by multiple agencies, according to Kentucky State Police (KSP). His mother, 33-year-old Felicia Gross, has been charged with second-degree manslaughter and was lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail.

According to court documents, Jaydens mother, Felicia Gross, gave the boy sleeping medication, which caused him to have a medical emergency. Believing he had died, police say she took his body into the woods near Canoe Road. Gross also allegedly coached Jaydens siblings on what to say about his disappearance.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Rosa McIntosh, who met with FOX 56 news on the third day of the search for Jayden, said the news of his death didnt come as a surprise.

I wasnt shocked at all, but it still hurts so bad, you just start crying, she said.

Across Jackson, people are finding ways to honor Jaydens short life, including at Jackson Independent School District.

We actually had some of our students who did some research on Jayden, and they found out that his favorite colors were red and blue, said Superintendent Wayne Sizemore. So, they decided they wanted to show support for the family and for him. They asked if we could dress in red and blue for the day.

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Although Jayden was not a student at Jackson Independent, Sizemore said this gesture reflects the tight-knit nature of their town.

Thats the beauty of a small community. You know, we will come together when need be and support as we can, Sizemore said.

As families across Jackson mourn his death, students at Jackson City School were asked to wear blue on Wednesday, with Breathitt County Schools also asking students to wear blue on Thursday and Friday to pay tribute to Jayden and honor his memory.

KSP: Missing 10-year-old Jackson boy found dead, mother arrested

We also ask that students and staff join us in remembering Jayden during the schools morning moment of silence, as we reflect on the joy he brought to our lives and the lasting impact he made, district leaders wrote on social media Wednesday.

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District officials said extra support would be there for students and staff over the coming days for anyone processing his passing.

Van driver robbed at gunpoint near Lexington church, senior center

Please continue to keep Jaydens family, friends, and our grieving community in your thoughts and prayers during this profoundly difficult time, Breathitt County school leaders asked.

Community members have come together to plan a candlelit vigil dedicated to Jayden for 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16, at Douthitt Park. Information about the vigil was shared on social media with the hashtag Justice for Jayden.

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The investigation into his death remains 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.
Man wanted in shooting death of 18-year-old Jackson woman

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney confirmed his niece, Mia Sims, was shot and killed in late July, and police are calling on the community to track down the individual charged in her murder.

He shot my niece while she was at church, Mahoney wrote on social media. She went outside to get pancakes her grandmother made for her and never returned back in to the church. She was 18, she just graduated high school. Now her killer is just out here.

Mia Sims (Mia Sims Facebook)

Her death sent waves through the Jackson community.

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She had that impact on everybody, said Staff Development Specialist at Phoenix Early Learning Child Center Chris Wallace. It affected a lot of people.

(WLNS)

Wallace began working with Sims in February at a child care center. He says Sims was the first person he met in the city, and her character was well known throughout Jackson.

She didnt have to know you. She was still going to treat you with respect and kind of kind of give you that, that smile that she gives everybody, Wallace said.

Despite rumors circulating on social media that Antonio Treyvonne Green, charged in her death, had been arrested, Jackson Police Chief Chris Simpson says he is still at large.

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Once we saw that, you know, we immediately updated the community on exactly where were at with the status of his warrant or warrants, Simpson said. So we are currently looking to apprehend him and bring him to the courthouse and go through those procedures.

SImpson says the motive for the shooting is still unclear and urges Green to turn himself in.

We know that at least from our standpoint, our investigators show our investigation shows that he was responsible for, you know, for those actions, Simpson said. I ask that he does turn himself in as soon as possible. I dont want this to, you know, drag out and drag out and drag out. And Im sure he does not either. He is presumed innocent until found guilty.

Anyone with any information that could assit with the investigation is asked to contact Detective Thomas Tinklepaugh at 517-768-8637.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Jacksonville man faces trial for shooting date over dinner bill, spotlighting online dating risks

A Jacksonville man is on trial this week, accused of shooting his date after an argument over a dinner bill.

Its a case, now on trial, raising new questions about online dating safety.

Jamal Moreland is charged with attempted armed robbery and attempted first-degree murder. Prosecutors say he met the victim through the LGBTQ dating app Grindr in February 2023.

Read: Jacksonville man tries to murder date when he refused to pay for his dinner, police report states

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Crystal Lorraine Ganpath-Freed, prosecutor, said: He went on a date that almost became the date on his tombstone almost killed him.

According to investigators, the two went to a bowling alley, then a liquor store. At some point, Moreland ordered food and wanted the victim to pay. When the victim refused, prosecutors say Moreland became agitated.

The victim told police he dropped Moreland off, but later picked him up again after Moreland texted asking for $45, claiming he had just gotten a ticket. Moments later, prosecutors say Moreland opened fire inside the victims truck  hitting him in the arm and chest.

The victim managed to drive away but crashed into a ditch before being rushed to the hospital. The prosecutor said surveillance video and shell casings linked Moreland to the shooting.

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Deana Duncan, defense attorney, said to the jury: Your job is ultimately to weigh that evidence. Were confident youll be left with doubts based on reason and common sense.

Now, as the trial gets underway, the case is a reminder to use extra caution when meeting someone for the first time through a dating app.

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A Jacksonville mom is reporting issues with the districts new bus tracker app after her middle school-aged son arrived home three hours late on the first day of school.

That communication issue was made worse by a decision to have her son leave his phone at home.

Although its not required, Nicole Shorts son did not take his cell phone to school in response to Floridas new statewide ban on cell phone use in schools.

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I was like, Okay dude, its the first day of school. Lets leave the phone at home. Lets follow the rules, Short said. And I feel like it kind of bit us in the rear.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

While phones are not banned in Florida schools, they are expected to be stored off and away from the student during the school day, like in a backpack. According to the Code of Student Conduct, an exception is made for bus riders during emergencies, such as an accident or a 30-minute or more delay.

According to Short, her son was able to call from another students phone more than an hour into the delay, telling her he was still far from home. Even then, she says it took another two hours before he arrived at the library where she was waiting.

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Short says she used the districts bus tracker app but found no updates on the location of her sons bus or how late it would be.

Its worrisome. I dont know where our kids are, she said. How come theres been no communication from the school district or the transportation department on why this specific busor multiple buseshavent arrived yet?

Now, she says, the experience has her rethinking whether her son should have more access to his phone.

With all of the child abduction rates and sex trafficking, especially in a big cityyou dont want them to have a cell phone, but then you take our kids and we dont know where theyre at, Short said.

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Action News Jax reached out to Duval County Public Schools to ask about bus issues. The district gave us this response:

We are also aware and continue to work with our bus vendors to enhance our ability to provide safe, reliable, and timely transportation services for our students and families. We thank families for their patience as we navigate through the first week of school, where bus delays can be more pronounced.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

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A man who was caught on CCTV throwing tyres and other debris on to a fire during the height of last summer's Hull riot has been jailed for 16 months.

Carl Dunn, 58, of Saffrondale, Anlaby, had pleaded guilty to violent disorder and arson at a previous hearing.

Sentencing Dunn at Hull Crown Court on Wednesday, Judge John Thackray KC said it was clear he "was not playing a leading role" in the disorder, which occurred on 3 August 2024.

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However, he told Dunn that the footage of the incident was "depressing and horrifying to watch", and he said that only an immediate custodial sentence could be justified.

Cars were set alight during the disorder in Hull [Submitted]

Similar scenes, fuelled by misinformation, were seen across the country following the murder of three young girls at a dance class in Southport.

Michael Forrest, prosecuting, played the footage to the court and pointed out Dunn, wearing all-white clothing, throwing tyres and other material on to fires around a garage in Milky Way, near Spring Bank.

Dunn's offending did not extend beyond that, Mr Forrest told the court.

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During the wider disorder, people  including children  were left "cowering" in the garage, noted Judge Thackray.

Rachel Scott, mitigating, urged the judge not to pass an immediate prison sentence.

She said Dunn had "very significant" mental health difficulties, including psychosis, adding his life had spiralled after his partner of 18 years took her own life in 2011.

Dunn, who was "passionate about cats", had been offered employment by a local rescue charity, said Ms Scott.

Judge Thackray noted Dunn had a number of previous convictions, including for assault in 2022.

'Mob violence'

He said he was satisfied Dunn had not lit any fires during the disorder.

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However, he said the court needed to look at the disorder "as a whole" when sentencing those involved.

"During the 12 hours of racist, mob violence, immeasurable harm was caused," he said.

"Eleven police officers were injured, including one who was left permanently scarred."

Dunn, who was trembling in the dock, was told he must serve up to half of his sentence before he is eligible for parole.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.

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A Hong Kong court on Wednesday found J-pop artist Kenshin Kamimura guilty of indecent assault after he harassed a woman working as his interpreter at a restaurant earlier this year.

Kamimura, 26, is a former member of the boy band ONE N'ONLY, which expelled him shortly after the allegation.

Fans queued to get into court for hours before the hearing, and some broke down in tears upon learning Kamimura had been convicted.

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The court heard Kamimura touched the woman's thighs multiple times despite her objections, and invited her to go to the bathroom with him.

Magistrate Peter Yu found he had assaulted her, adding his behaviour "clearly shows disrespect for women".

The incident took place in March during a celebratory dinner, after a fan meet for which the woman had been working as an interpreter for Kamimura and others.

The Japanese star was fined HK$15,000 ($1,900).

Kamimura, who is also known as an actor in the Japanese drama "Our Youth", hugged his court translator upon hearing he would be fined without facing jail time, media reports said.

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Kamimura got "what he deserved", Yu said, adding that "had the victim not refused to remain silent and courageously come forward, she would have suffered an unpleasant experience in silence".

But ardent fans inside and outside the court were in tears.

Chen, a 30-year-old screenwriter and fan who gave only her last name, said she had come from northern China to watch the court session.

She told AFP before the verdict that the trial has had a negative impact on Kamimura's image, and had incited "public outbursts of vitriol against the artist".

twa/rsc
JASPER COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV)  The Jasper County Schoolboard isnt going down without a fight, as the board voted to appeal the states decision to takeover.

The school system was declared to be in a state of emergency by the South Carolina Superintendent of Schools. The State Board of Education voted to take over the operations of the district last week.

The decision was the result of a forensic audit of the school district which showed serious financial mismanagement in Jasper County Schools, as well as issues with hiring and even potential criminal activity by the former School Superintendent Rechel Anderson.

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SLED Is currently investigating Andersons conduct as superintendent.

Monday night, the Jasper County Schoolboard voted by an 8-1 margin to appeal the States decision.

The board says they believe it should get another chance to improve the school system on their own, without state interference.

I just hope my constituents would back the decision that I may know that Im not doing it just on a whim, said Daisy Mitchell of the Jasper County Schoolboard. I am doing this because i feel its the very best thing for our district. Im going to say to people we should appeal. I know that wont sit well for some of you. Well, some of you I know it doesnt. But you dont know what I know.

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I feel that we have made gains for those of you in the school district. And there are things that we found out that we were not aware of. Im saying, like my grandmother, you cant police itself or anything that they didnt know about, Schoolboard member Bertie Riley explained. And I do feel that we should be given a chance.

This is the first time for the new policy to have taken over, Riley continued. And we feel that we are guinea pig and I feel that we need to let them know that we wont be a guinea pig.

The state has already brought in a new Superintendent of Schools in Jasper County.

A law firm was hired last night to file the boards official appeal to the state.

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No word has been given on when a final decision by the state could be made.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Devolved units are keeping the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) busy, with nine governors on its radar in ongoing nationwide crackdown on corruption.

EACC chairperson Dr. David Oginde revealed on Tuesday that the commission is investigating several counties riddled with graft, with governors leading in the embezzlement of public funds.

We are pursuing quite a number of governors at the moment; nine are under scrutiny at different levels of the cases. Its not just governors, it goes down to other county staff, he told Citizen TV. Counties are what are keeping us busy right now.

He highlighted some of the ongoing investigations, saying, In Nairobi, we have this junior official we are pursuing over Ksh500 million.

Oginde also pointed to a recent case in Busia County, noting, Last week we arrested six officials of Busia County over Ksh1.4 billion.

Dr. Oginde disclosed that some of the counties under investigation are in marginalized regions, where elected leaders allegedly divert county resources to make investments in Nairobi.

He warned that this greed for county funds has deeply undermined development in the affected areas, leaving residents deprived of essential services and infrastructure.

I have been surprised that some of the worst-hit counties are those that are considered marginalized. They have been given privileges to try and bring the county up but the leaders in those counties are syphoning that money and bringing it back to Nairobi to buy apartments and start businesses, he noted.

He explained that investigations have uncovered a scheme in which high-ranking county officials use junior officers as proxies to transfer embezzled funds to their personal accounts.

One of the most common methods of looting, Dr. Oginde stated, is through tendering, where individuals form companies to do business with counties and they intentionally overprice their bids. He pointed out that the commission has a tall order in combating corruption due to political protection given to the individuals involved, rendering prosecution of the looters an uphill task.

We have had situations where we arrest senior people and even the day they are coming to record statements, our offices are raided by their supporters, he said.

Dr. Oginde lamented that the politicization of corruption has crippled efforts to combat the vice for decades.

Our counties can only grow when every shilling is spent on what it was allocated for, he asserted.
JBS USA announced plans to open a ready-to-eat bacon and sausage facility in Ankeny. (Photo via Getty Images)

JBS USA announced Wednesday it had reached an agreement to purchase an Ankeny facility, previously owned by Hy-Vee, to build out a ready-to-eat bacon and sausage facility.

According to a press release from the company, the 186,000-square-foot facility will be the largest of its kind in the JBS portfolio and will create approximately 400 jobs, once fully operational.

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The purchase and required facility enhancements represent a $100 million investment, according to the release. The plant is expected to be operational by mid-2026 following capital investments and construction.

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The facility was previously the Fresh Commissary, which made sandwiches, salads, bakery items and take-and-bake pizzas for Hy-Vee stores. Hy-Vee announced in April it was closing the facility that employed more than 300 people.

JBS plans to hire employees who previously worked at the facility under Hy-Vee, due to the type of work, the press release said.

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JBS is also planning a sausage-making facility in nearby Perry. With the two new locations, JBS will have five plants in Iowa. Other plants are in Council Bluffs, Marshalltown and Ottumwa.

This facility in Ankeny will not only expand our prepared foods business in the U.S., it will also benefit from synergies and strategic supply of product from our other plants in the region, Rick Foster, JBSs U.S. head of prepared foods, said in a statement.

According to the release, the Perry location will supply raw sausage to the Ankeny facility to be cooked and packaged as ready-to-eat.

Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS USA, said the company is proud to grow our operations in Iowa.

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JBS also operates a ready-to-eat bacon facility in Moberly, Missouri, and said there is increasing consumer demand for the ready-to-eat pork products.

Todays announcement aligns with our long-term strategy of offering more value-added and prepared foods products to meet the needs of our customers and consumers, Batista Filho said in the release.

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When JD Vance stepped onto Scottish soil on Wednesday he became the second inhabitant of the White House to visit the country in a month.

The vice-president is believed to be staying in Ayrshire, just north of Galloway, the area he says his forebears left in the 17th Century.

But while his boss, President Donald Trump, is half-Scottish - his mother was born in Lewis in the Western Isles - Vance's claim to Caledonian blood has come under some questioning.

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And this is important because in his own way the vice-president is a follower of the modern creed his Maga allies claim to hate - identity politics.

That's loosely defined as people of a particular group - perhaps racial, sexual or social - putting that group's goals ahead of traditional party politics.

Or as Vance once put it: "To understand me, you must understand that I am a Scots-Irish hillbilly at heart."

He made that claim in his 2016 memoir Hillbilly Elegy, a bestseller which was subsequently turned into an Oscar-nominated film starring Glenn Close and Amy Adams.

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The book describes a childhood spent surrounded by poverty and substance abuse in Appalachia, the broad mountainous region which extends across the eastern USA from Canada to the Deep South.

It's estimated that about 90% of the area's early European immigrants came in the 17th Century from the lands which stretch along both sides of the Scottish-English border.

These included Ayrshire, Galloway, Dumfriesshire and the areas now known as the Scottish Borders. Vance claims his ancestors were from Galloway and were part of this migration.

The terms Scots-Irish, Scotch-Irish and Ulster-Scots relate to people who left Scotland, settled as part of the Ulster plantation and then moved on to North America.

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Appalachia today includes pockets of extreme poverty and its inhabitants are often offensively depicted as "hillbillies" - simple, unsophisticated and poor.

Vance's memoir is an attempt to reclaim that tradition. He writes: "I may be white, but I do not identify with the WASPs (White Anglo-Saxon Protestant) of the Northeast.

"Instead, I identify with the millions of working-class white Americans of Scots-Irish descent who have no college degree.

"To these folks, poverty is the family tradition... Americans call them hillbillies, rednecks, or white trash. I call them neighbours, friends and family."

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The book sets out Vance's developing political ideas as it charts his move towards conservatism.

And though he was at the time a critic of Donald Trump, the book explains why poor rural voters in places like Appalachia were becoming attracted to the Maga movement.

Vice-President Vance's holiday comes just a few weeks after Donald Trump's visit to his Scottish golf courses [AFP via Getty Images]

But while Vance makes explicit links between his family heritage and his political views, others are more sceptical.

Speaking on the BBC's Good Morning Scotland programme, Prof Angelia Wilson of the University of Manchester said Vance has used his Scots-Irish heritage to craft his image.

"What we know about his background is often what he wants us to know about his background and his construction of the narrative has been very much based on the American dream," she said.

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"Everybody who is white and working class in the American south claims to be of some sort of Scotch-Irish heritage. There is some absolute truth there.

"There's also a bit of cultural construction happening because it was those in the north-east, those 'damn Yankees' that claimed to be English.

Prof Wilson believes the administration Vance is now part of does not especially represent the heritage he likes to embrace.

"The values that he may have grown up with, that might ring true with Scottish stereotypes about being financially conservative and valuing families and community and helping those in need, are certainly not values that Trump and Maga talk about now.

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"So he is now not a man of Scottish values," she said.

Vance is currently front-runner to succeed Trump as president [Getty Images]

Prof Ewan Hague of DePaul University in Chicago is an expert in white racial identities and the cultural relationships between Scotland and America.

He believes Vance's identification with the Scots-Irish community has actually brought him definite political benefits.

"He can align himself with the Trump voters," he says. "In 2016, he was strongly against Donald Trump. I think that's well known.

"I think part of it is these are the kinds of self identities that Trump has that have really moved towards sort of supporting Trump. The sort of lower income rural white population.

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"And so by emphasising that as part of his core identity, JD Vance, I think, can tap into those connections. And these ideas of strength, self-reliance, very kind of "small c" conservative connection to family and patriotism and nation.

"The Scots-Irish becomes a kind of shorthand for a lot of the things that we're seeing from the kind of cultural perspectives of the current administration."

The Tartan Day celebrations, which take place in New York in April, are a relatively recent attempt to celebrate Scottish-American relations [Getty Images]

Actor Alan Cumming is among the celebrities who have led the annual Tartan Day parade in New York [Getty Images]

If this all sounds a little politically cynical, it should be said there are many things to celebrate about the links between Scotland and the United States.

Over the past 26 years, Tartan Day has grown into a huge celebration. Set up to mimic the traditional St Patrick's Day celebrations enjoyed by the Irish-American community in cities across the USA, it brings celebrities, pipe bands, business leaders and politicians out on the streets of New York every April.

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It is seen as a key way of promoting Scotland across North America.

Politicians from different parts of the political spectrum have said Scots should make every effort to get along with President Trump as a means of getting any political and economic advantage out of his recent trip to his mother's homeland.

The Vance trip is another opportunity to do that, though this visit promises to be a much more low-key, private affair.

After all, he may well at some point succeed his boss into the West Wing. A future President Vance would see himself as the second chief executive in a row with Scottish heritage.

Others may question just how Scottish he is or how much that even means. But if it's how he sees himself, it is a factor this week and for the future.
NEED TO KNOW

Vice President JD Vance is being trolled by an activist group while on vacation in the United Kingdom

The group, called Everyone Hates Elon, has plastered an unflattering meme image of the VP to signs, billboards and even a large van that has been driving around the Cotswolds, near where Vance and his family are staying

"If he thinks he can come here for peaceful tea and crumpets, hes got another thing coming," the group said in a statement

JD Vance is receiving a not-so-warm welcome while on a family vacation in the United Kingdom.

This week, Vance, 41, and his wife, Usha, 39, traveled with their children, Ewan, 8, Vivek, 5, and Mirabel, 3, to stay at an 18th-century manor house in the Cotswolds, a posh and picturesque area in southern England.

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However, a British activist group called Everyone Hates Elon  which has previously trolled President Donald Trump, Jeff Bezos, and, as its name suggests, Elon Musk  is making his stay slightly uncomfortable. The group has taken a now-infamous meme of the vice president with a digitally enlarged bald head and posted it on billboards and signs around the area where Vance and his family are staying.

More notably, they rented an advertising van that projects the image on both sides and the back of the van as it drives around the Cotswolds.

Everyone Hates Elon/Instagram An advertising van with a meme image of JD Vance drives around the Cotswolds in England An advertising van with a meme image of JD Vance drives around the Cotswolds in England

On Everyone Hates Elon's Instagram page, the liberal activist group has been receiving donations to help "ruin JD Vance's trip," with a stated goal to show the VP that he is "NOT welcome in the U.K."

"Such an absolute SHAME that coverage of JD's holiday features this meme of his face as a big bald baby, rather than peacefully enjoying scones and cream in the Cotswolds," they wrote on one post. "We couldnt allow him to dine at expensive restaurants, while people in Palestine starve to death. We couldnt stand by as he freely hangs out with his far right friends, while taking freedoms away of his people. Apparently you really love free speech hun @jdvance, so here you go xxx."

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The choice of the meme is no coincidence. While hundreds of Vance memes flooded the internet earlier this year, that specific image is the one that a 21-year-old Norwegian tourist said got him denied entry to the U.S. earlier this year.

Everyone Hates Elon/Instagram An advertising van displaying a meme of JD Vance drives around the Cotswolds in England An advertising van displaying a meme of JD Vance drives around the Cotswolds in England

Mads Mikkelsen, who is unrelated to the Danish actor, claimed that he was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at Newark Liberty International Airport on June 11. Mikkelsen said he was threatened with a $5,000 fine or five years in prison if he didn't give officers the password to his phone. According to the traveler, once he did, they saw the Vance meme and sent him back to Norway.

On June 24, after the story went viral, CBP posted a "FACT CHECK" on their X page, writing, "Mads Mikkelsen was not denied entry for any memes or political reasons, it was for his admitted drug use."

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

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This came a few months after Vance made headlines with claims that Europe, and the U.K. in particular, have a free speech problem.

While sitting down with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer in February, the VP claimed tech regulation across the pond was a threat to American businesses.

"We also know that there have been infringements on free speech that actually affect not just the British  of course what the British do in their own country is up to them  but also affect American technology companies and, by extension, American citizens," he said.

Starmer fired back, saying the U.K. "wouldnt want to reach across U.S. citizens, and we dont, and thats absolutely right."

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"But in relation to free speech in the U.K. Im very proud of our history there," Starmer added. "Weve had free speech for a very, very long time in the United Kingdom and it will last for a very, very long time."



Vance's focus on free speech is, in part, what motivated Everyone Hates Elon to target him with that specific meme.

In a press release about their campaign, a spokesperson for the group said, "JD Vance says the UK has a free speech problem, but a tourist claims he was banned from entering the USA simply for having this silly meme on his phone."

"We thought we'd show him what free speech looks like here by welcoming him with the image he apparently hates so much," the statement continued. "Vance has made racist claims about our diverse country. With President Trump he has delivered huge tax cuts to billionaires. He is bankrolling the daily murders we see Israel carrying out in Gaza. If he thinks he can come here for peaceful tea and crumpets hes got another thing coming."

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 meme isn't the only issue Vance is having on his family vacation.

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Earlier this week, The Telegraph reported that the owner of the property Vance was renting for his stay had to send a message to her neighbors saying she was "so sorry for the circus that is there for the next few days," adding that she hoped the Vances' stay wouldn't be too "disruptive" for locals.

Prior to Vance's arrival in the rural vacation spot, the Secret Service reportedly brought disturbances to Charlbury, a village with just 3,000 residents. Preparations for his visit included the installation of checkpoints, the erection of a large antenna behind the house, and the creation of a makeshift helipad in a nearby field.



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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  The Jefferson County Coroners Office announced it is seeking assistance from the public in locating the families of five people who died in the past month.

Anyone with information is asked to call the office 205-930-3603.

Mae Brooks Sizemore

Mae Sizemore, 95, of Birmingham, died while of natural causes at the Arlington Rehabilitation and HealthCare Center on July 31. She previously listed addresses in Birmingham and Forestdale. The only next of kin found died in 2007 in Birmingham.

Fred Williams Jr. (No photo available)

Fred Williams Jr., 77, died while on hospice care at South Health and Rehabilitation around 10:28 a.m. Aug. 1. No information has been found regarding him. Williams may be from Chicago.

Sheral Dean Henderson

Sheral Henderson, 65, of Pleasant Grove, died of natural causes at the Legacy Health and Rehabilitation of Pleasant Grove on Aug. 4. Henderson had a past address listed in Oneonta. No information regarding next of kin or family has been found.

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Birmingham mayoral debate gets heated

Jimmy Ray Yates

Jimmy Yates, 83, of Birmingham, died while being an inpatient at UAB Hospital around 8:55 p.m. Aug. 11. His cause of death is pending. He was a former hospice patient with a local hospice service and was discharged in 2023. He possibly has a brother named Joe Wiggins.

Paul Merrick (No photo available)

Paul Merrick, 71, died of natural causes at Grandview Medical Center on July 23. No next of kin or family information has been found. Merrick is possibly from Houston.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. (PIX11)  No law will ever bring Lauren Semanchik and Tyler Webb back. But New Jersey lawmakers are highlighting legislation they hope will prevent tragedies like this in the future.

The time is now, said Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-NJ 25th District). There cant be another Lauren. There cant be another Tyler.

More Local News

The bipartisan bill introduced in the state house would look to codify into law the definition of domestic violence to include psychological and economic abuse.

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What it does is it expands the definition, which also gives the framework for law enforcement to work within, said Dunn, who is a volunteer for Jersey Battered Womens Services in Morris County.

Shes authoring the bill with Assemblywoman Lisa Swain.

Their bank accounts get cut off, or they are tormented psychologically, said Swain (D-NJ 38th District). There are a lot of issues that are occurring that really need to be discussed, and this bill is a step in that direction to bring it out to the light.

The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office says Smanchik and Webb were found shot to death at a Franklin Township home on August 2nd. The suspected killer, New Jersey State Police Lieutenant Ricardo Santos, who took his own life, had previously dated Semanchik. Her family tells PIX11 he had exhibited controlling behavior.

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More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

99 percent of survivors report financial abuse, and its about that for psychological and emotional abuse as well, said Lauren Van Metre, executive director of Safe in Hunterdon.

While the bill was introduced before the tragedy in Franklin Township, lawmakers hope this sparks a renewed conversation about domestic violence in the State House.

I do hope whether its an emergency session or when we return that this is taken up, said Dunn.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Atlantic City Electric is preparing to activate its first energy storage system, an emerging technology in electric production, at the site of a decommissioned substation in Beach Haven.

With only a about dozen feet separating the system from homes, residents fear the battery energy storage system, which is comprised of lithium materials, may be dangerous in a fire or emergency.

Beach Haven Mayor Colleen Lambert said the company has resisted borough officials requests to delay the project and address potential risks. Borough officials were told the plant could begin storing energy as early as this week.

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Atlantic City Electric says safety features are installed into the system to prevent potential large-scale fires.

Im sure every town that had one installed didnt think that...nothing will go wrong, Lambert said. If it does, Beach Haven is very, very vulnerable because of our size, not to mention the fact that its right in the heart of our business district. It could be really catastrophic if something were to happen.

The systems installation comes as these types of devices are continually being added to energy grids nationwide to increase their reliability during peak power demands, according to reports from the Associated Press. The facility stores energy during lower periods of energy needs, then disperses the power across the grid when electric is needed.

The Beach Haven project is the first instance where Atlantic City Electric has implemented the emerging technology. It chose the former substation site because of its proximity to other energy infrastructure, the company said.

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Atlantic City Electrics parent company, Chicago-based Exelon, has implemented the technology for its other subsidiaries, including Baltimore Gas and Electric.

Meanwhile, Beach Haven officials are pursuing an independent report to examine the units potential impacts, Lambert said. Atlantic City Electric said it remains engaged in addressing the boroughs concerns.

The company did not say whether it is weighing a decision to pause the roll-out.

Joel Fleishman, an attorney speaking to the Beach Haven Land-Use Board during an April 2022 hearing, said the project called for site improvements surrounding the elevated storage facility, which replaced a former substation that first came online in the 1970s.

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A company official speaking at the hearing said Atlantic City Electric would train local firefighters on how to respond to emergencies at the facility. However, the company assured residents and local officials about fire prevention equipment at the site, including an automatic detection system installed in the equipment. The facility also has a pre-piped water spray system, which would allow firefighters to address any fire without entering its enclosure, according to the company.

As part of these efforts, we held an open house for residents and provided training to borough officials, the (Ocean) County Office of Emergency Management, first responders, and fire personnel to help them understand the protection and mitigation procedures that are in place for the operation of the facility, Atlantic City Electric said in an emailed statement. We are continuing to make final preparations prior to placing the facility in service and we will keep the community informed regarding our progress and next steps.

Residents and officials, however, argue that company officials did not adequately address the presence of lithium, which has caused concerns among the firefighting community about its flammability.

Fires at these types of facilities caused dangerous situations, including in Surprise, Arizona, where one exploded in 2019, hospitalizing nine first responders. Several were treated for chemical and chemical-inhalation burns.

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Earlier this year, a blaze at one of the worlds largest battery storage facilities in Northern California led to officials evacuating 1,500 people.

My major concern is the positioning of this thing, said Jim Ciulla, a retired firefighter and borough resident. It is so close to residences and commercial properties right in the center of Beach Haven.

New Jersey is likely to see the technology increasingly deployed across the state as part of Gov. Phil Murphys clean-energy efforts. In June, the Murphy administration launched its first phase of an initiative to have 2,000 megawatts of stored energy available by 2030.

A first solicitation in the states effort for 350-750 megawatts concludes at the months end. The Beach Haven project was not produced as part of New Jerseys storage solicitation, NJBPU officials said.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com.
The defendant in the case, a Jerusalem resident in his 20s, is accused of having attacked a bus driver in the Neve Yaakov neighborhood of Jerusalem on July 15.

A Jerusalem resident was indicted Sunday for violently attacking a bus driver in the city in July for allegedly skipping a stop, Israel Police said.

The defendant in the case, a Jerusalem resident in his 20s, is accused of having attacked a bus driver in the Neve Yaakov neighborhood of Jerusalem on July 15.

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Police who had arrived at the scene of the incident saw two people with bruises. After the two had received medical treatment, police investigated the incident and arrested the suspected offender.

The suspect was later released under house arrest while the police continued to investigate.

Suspect locked in handcuffs. (credit: Walla)

Attack on the bus driver

According to the indictment, the defendant had confronted the bus driver, accusing him of not stopping at a previous stop on the route, and began cursing at him.

The defendant then tried to strike the driver with his hands, only to be pushed away. After that, the defendant attempted to bludgeon the driver with his cellphone.

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In response, the driver leapt towards the defendant over the barrier separating the driver and passengers, hitting the defendant.

At this point, the indictment claims, a full brawl ensued, with the defendant supposedly grabbing the driver's head and hitting him hard.

Another passenger entered the fray to separate them and ended up grabbing the driver and choking him while the defendant continued to pummel the driver's head.

The driver ultimately suffered wounds to the head and face.
(NewsNation)  Jimmy Kimmel revealed that he obtained his Italian passport just in case he has to leave the country because of President Trump.

The Jimmy Kimmel Live! host appeared on Sarah Silvermans podcast on Aug. 7, where he shared the news.

A lot of people I know are thinking about where they can get citizenship, Silverman said, with Kimmel replying, I did get Italian citizenship.

Kennedy Center honorees include George Strait, KISS

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Its so much worse. Its just unbelievable. Like I feel like its probably even worse than he would like it to be, Kimmel told Silverman.

Kimmel said that he was able to obtain Italian citizenship because of his mothers side of the family, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The talk show host and comedian has routinely criticized the president for years, as well as his policies, even during his first term.

Trump is no fan of Kimmel, having called him stupid and saying he would be next to lose his late-night show after CBS canceled The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.

Jimmy Kimmel joins a list of comedians leaving US

Ellen DeGeneres revealed in July that she and her wife, Portia de Rossi, moved to the United Kingdom due to Trump being reelected.

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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, she told a crowd at Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham, England, according to The Guardian. And were like, Were staying here.

Trump: I absolutely love that Colbert got fired

Shortly before Trump took office, Rosie ODonnell, a vocal critic of the president, said she moved to Ireland with her 12-year-old daughter, The Hill reported.

I moved here on Jan. 15, and its been pretty wonderful. I have to say, the people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming, and Im very grateful, ODonnell said in a TikTok video in March. Im in the process of getting my Irish citizenship, as I have Irish grandparents.

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In a July 12 Truth Social post, Trump threatened to revoke ODonnells U.S. citizenship, calling her a threat to humanity.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Hailed by some as a hero and scorned by others as a traitor, Hong Kong's pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai is in the final stage of his national security trial.

Closing arguments were scheduled to start on Thursday for Lai, who is accused of colluding with foreign forces under a Beijing-imposed national security law.

But the hearing has now been postponed until Monday. It was first delayed for a day as a typhoon swept through Hong Kong.

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On Friday, a judge called for another adjournment so that a medical device could be installed to monitor Lai's heart. Lai's lawyers and his son Sebastien have raised concerns over his deteriorating health over the past year.

The 77-year-old was noticeably thinner when he appeared in court on Friday.

His trial has drawn international attention, with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer calling for the release of Lai - who is a British citizen.

US President Donald Trump had earlier said he would do "everything [he] can" to save Jimmy Lai.

Lai has been detained since December 2020 and faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if he is convicted.

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Critics say Lai's case shows how Hong Kong's legal system has been weaponised to silence political opposition.

Lai has been a persistent thorn in China's side. Unlike other tycoons who rose to the top in Hong Kong, Mr Lai became one of the fiercest critics of the Chinese state and a leading figure advocating democracy in the former British territory.

"I'm a born rebel," he told the BBC in an interview in 2020, hours before he was charged. "I have a very rebellious character."

Lai is on trial for breaching national security and colluding with foreign forces [Getty Images]

He is the most prominent person charged under the controversial national security law which China introduced in 2020, in response to massive protests which erupted in Hong Kong the year before.

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The legislation criminalises anything Beijing deems to be subversive or secessionist, from chanting slogans to participating in pro-democracy protests.

Beijing says the national security law is necessary to maintain stability in Hong Kong but critics say it has effectively outlawed dissent.

Over the years, Lai's son Sebastien has called for his release. In February, the younger Lai urged Starmer and US President Donald Trump to take urgent action, adding that his father's "body is breaking down".

Ahead of Lai's trial, Sebastien told the BBC that even if his father got just five years in prison, it was "practically the same as a death penalty."

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"Given his age, given his health, yeah. He will die in prison," he said.

Sebastien added that Lai's case was "crucial for China-UK relations". If Lai died, it would show that "as a nation [the UK] we didn't stand up for one of our bravest when it mattered", he said.

Rags to riches

Lai was born in Guangzhou, a city in southern China, to a wealthy family that lost everything when the communists took power in 1949.

He was 12 years old when he fled his village in mainland China, arriving in Hong Kong as a stowaway on a fishing boat.

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While working odd jobs and knitting in a small clothing shop he taught himself English. He went from a menial role to eventually founding a multi-million dollar empire including the international clothing brand Giordano.

The chain was a huge success. But when China sent in tanks to crush pro-democracy protests in Beijing's Tiananmen Square in 1989, Lai began a new journey as a vocal democracy activist as well as an entrepreneur.

He started writing columns criticising the massacre that followed the demonstrations in Beijing and established a publishing house that went on to become one of Hong Kong's most influential.

Lai is among the most prominent people charged under Hong Kong's controversial national security law [Reuters]

As China responded by threatening to shut his stores on the mainland, leading him to sell the company, Lai launched a string of popular pro-democracy titles that included Next, a digital magazine, and the widely read Apple Daily newspaper.

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In a local media landscape increasingly fearful of Beijing, Lai had been a persistent critic of Chinese authorities both through his publications and writing.

This has seen him become a hero for many in Hong Kong, who view him as a man of courage who took great risks to defend the freedoms of the city.

But on the mainland he is viewed as a "traitor" who threatens Chinese national security.

In recent years, masked attackers firebombed Lai's house and company headquarters. He was also the target of an assassination plot.

But none of the threats stopped him from airing his views robustly. He was a prominent part of the city's pro-democracy demonstrations and was arrested twice in 2021 on illegal assembly charges.

Apple Daily was unafraid to be openly critical of the Chinese state [Getty Images]

When China passed Hong Kong's new national security law in June 2020, Lai told the BBC it sounded the "death knell" for the territory.

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The influential entrepreneur also warned that Hong Kong would become as corrupt as China. Without the rule of law, he said, its coveted status as a global financial hub would be "totally destroyed".

The media mogul is known for his frankness and acts of flamboyance.

In 2021, he urged Donald Trump to help the territory, saying he was "the only one who can save us" from China. His newspaper, Apple Daily, published a front-page letter that finished: "Mr President, please help us."

For Lai, such acts were necessary to defend the city which had taken him in and fuelled his success.

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He once told news agency AFP: "I came here with nothing, the freedom of this place has given me everything... Maybe it's time I paid back for that freedom by fighting for it."

Lai has been slapped with various charges - including unauthorised assembly and fraud - since 2020.

He has been in custody since December of that year.

The prosecution of Lai has captured international attention, with rights groups and foreign governments urging his release.

Over the years, Sebastien Lai has travelled the world to denounce his father's arrest and condemn Hong Kong for punishing "characteristics that should be celebrated".

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"My father is in jail for the truth on his lips, courage in his heart, and freedom in his soul," he had said.
Sprouts Farmers Market

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Qualifications: Be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent and 1-3 months related experience and/or training; or acceptable combination of education and experience. Must have strong analytical and organizational skills in order to analyze total scanning programs, properly maintain necessary reports and schedules, and be able to understand and use billing and accounting principles and processes. Must possess excellent mathematical skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office. Must have weekend availability. Good vision required.

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Benefits: Competitive pay; Sick time plan; Opportunities for career growth; 15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all Sprouts purchases. Flexible schedules. Employee Assistance Program. Eligibility requirements may apply for the following benefits: 401(K) Retirement savings plan with a generous company match. Affordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental vision and more.

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Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian has obtained temporary court orders protecting her from her estranged boyfriend, Musa Hussein Lenyumpa, banning him from contacting or harassing her in any way.

In his ruling, Magistrate Festus Terer prohibited Musa from assaulting, threatening, harassing, or interfering with the senators well-being. The court also barred him from using her name, image, or likeness for personal or commercial gain, publishing any information about her, or accessing her home or workplace until further orders are given.

Represented by lawyer Danstan Omari, the ODM-nominated Senator told the court that their relationship was limited to a Samburu customary courtship, which she later called off.

She stressed that no dowry had been paid and clarified that the Ksh100,000 ropiyani e loip he gave her was only a traditional token in Samburu culture  an amount she has since fully returned.

The senator claims that the harassment has severely affected her privacy, safety, and professional reputation. She accuses Musa of death threats, physical assault, including an incident that caused a nosebleed, as well as spreading false hearsay of her marrying her.

Hezena Lemaletian further alleges Musa has used Twitter and other social media and bloggers to disparage her, actions she alleges have put her at risk and jeopardized her political aspirations.

The matter will be heard inter partes on September 22, 2025, when the two parties will debate whether the protection orders should be extended or amended.
For more on the culture that has shaped the last quarter century, check out The 25 pieces of culture that explain the last 25 years.

Joe Rogan is many things  a comedian, a commentator, and a contrarian; a reality TV star and martial artist-turned-host of the most listened to podcast in America: The Joe Rogan Experience. His fans say hes just asking questions, calling out liberal hypocrisy, and defending free speech. His critics use other terms: a conspiracy theorist and peddler of misinformation and anti-trans rhetoric, who platforms not just off-the-wall ideas, but dangerous narratives that cause real-world harm.

Theres truth in all these labels. Theres another way to think of Rogan that may help put him in his rightful context for this decade: Joe Rogan is the Walter Cronkite of Our Era, declared British satirist Konstantin Kisin for Quilette in 2019. Not one established newspaper or broadcaster can now compete with a popular YouTube host conducting a conversation from his self-funded studio, he wrote at the time, reflecting on Rogans three-hour interrogation of Twitter executives.

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Kisins declaration  before the global Covid-19 pandemic, before the 2020 election of Joe Biden or the 2024 reelection of Donald Trump  might have been a bit premature. But he effectively predicted what Rogan would yet become: not just one of the most influential voices in politics, popular culture, and social commentary, but also a harbinger for a new form of media, communications, trust, and truth in a post-pandemic world. There is no monoculture in 2025; but for a huge part of America, the realm Rogan pioneered and steers is as close as we might get.

He and his show have been at the crossroads of just about every major moment and societal change that defines the 2020s, from Covid misinformation and vaccine fearmongering to the expansion of the manosphere universe. His show is a mirror for a country that has grown more anxious, distrustful, and paranoid in the last decade.

Like a lot of America, the pandemic changed Rogan

When Kisin made his Cronkite comparison in 2019, Rogans mainstream crossover was just getting started. Back then, The Joe Rogan Experience was well on its way to being the most popular podcast show in America  the second most downloaded Apple podcast in 2017 and 2018, before topping the list the next year. His YouTube uploads regularly attracted a million views each (racking up more than 2 billion by mid-2020), and the show had become a must-stop destination for both traditional celebrities and a realm of alternative and conspiratorially minded pseudointellectuals (think: Alex Jones, Kanye West, Elon Musk).

There is no monoculture in 2025; but for a huge part of America, the realm Rogan pioneered and steers is as close as we might get.

He had achieved that by developing a space for curious-minded average joes and those folks Slate once described as freethinkers who hate the left to listen to his two-to-three-hourlong, anarchic episodes. In trying to understand what made Rogans show work, the writer Devin Gordon summarized his roster as being roughly divided into three categories: fellow comedians, fellow athletes and fighters, and thinkers. The latter label, Gordon wrote in The Atlantic, requires air quotes because it encompasses everyone from Oxford scholarsall the way across the known intellectual galaxy to conspiracy theorists like Rogans longtime buddy and Sandy Hook denier Alex Jones. And gobbling up this content were millions of, primarily, American men, across every demographic.

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Through it all, a handful of principles anchored the show. While he wasnt overtly political, he described himself as having essentially libertarian views with strong socially liberal leanings. Free speech, and the platforming of those who had been canceled in the mainstream, were a foundational goal of the show. Skepticism of government, big tech, and corporate media were a corollary. And a pseudo-Socratic line of curiosity and skepticism were his modus operandi. That led him to take traditionally liberal positions on social issues and civil rights, to criticize interventionist foreign policy, and to embrace the policies of political figures like Andrew Yang, Tulsi Gabbard, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as well as populist movement headed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, who Rogan backed during the 2020 Democratic primaries.

Yet with the dawn of the pandemic, a few things changed. While originally critical of Trump, the tone of his shows, and his guests, began to move in a rightward direction after Trumps 2020 defeat. Rogan had been critical of pandemic shutdowns and mitigation efforts, questioned the efficacy of vaccines, and railed against what he called censorship and speech suppression on social media platforms. And once the left, and woke liberals became the establishment in the Biden administration, media, pop culture, and business, Rogan and his show had an easy foil to criticize and ask questions.

This post-2020 period was a time of growth and challenge for Rogan. He inked a reported $200 million multiyear deal with Spotify for the platform to exclusively host his podcast, but both he and Spotify faced intense calls by artists, liberal activists, journalists, and science communicators to either censor, deplatform or moderate his show to prevent the spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation. He has previously described this era between 2020 and 2022 as terrifying  for the threats to free speech he felt were being emboldened by the Biden administration, by popular culture, and by mainstream media. This period contextualizes his feuds during that time with Facebook and Twitter for allegedly suppressing right-wing opinions and speech, with the Biden White House for pressuring social media companies to regulate speech, and with the mainstream media.

Yet he survived this controversy, and his show only grew bigger since then, aligning with his eventual drift to not only interviewing but endorsing Trump in 2024.

His format, and style, has changed America and its relation to truth

Rogan and his show are now perfect avatars of Americas political and cultural revolution in the Trump era: The Joe Rogan Experience is now one of the key arbiters of truth and reality for scores of Americans who get informed from nontraditional and alternative media sources. His YouTube channel now boasts over 6 billion views across the episodes uploaded there; his episodes are rarely not the top shows across Apple, Spotify, and other podcast apps. Hes become the mainstream, popular enough to cause strife during the 2024 election when he declined to interview Kamala Harris but hosted Trump and Vice President JD Vance. He also interviews the likes of Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, various politicians and entrepreneurs, and many more celebrities, actors, and comedians. His format has been imitated or adapted across the internet  yielding a web of right-wing, testosterone-driven, trash-talking shows collectively known as the manosphere.

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In this realm, pioneered by Rogan, inquiry and curiosity can easily give way to conspiratorial thinking and paranoia. Theres a sense that there are greater forces and powers trying to influence American minds, and thus requires radical skepticism.

In this realm, pioneered by Rogan, inquiry and curiosity can easily give way to conspiratorial thinking and paranoia.

In that way, Rogans show encompasses the crossroads of three defining forces of the 2020s: the anti-incumbent, change-the-status-quo energy that permeated American politics in the last years of the Biden administration; the silo-fication of news, media, and truth into echo chambers and algorithmically powered feeds; and the political awakening and radicalization of low-information, low-political engagement, and low-trust Americans.

Rogan has successfully helped to yoke together a particularly reactive, ill-informed, and even paranoid group; a group that is now accustomed to having their beliefs confirmed by increasingly powerful people.

Yet now that hes the mainstream, Rogan finds his show in a potentially tenuous position: holding together a vast audience that could eventually come to question their loyalties and question him. His Trump endorsement, in particular, came with risks  opening him up to accusations of hypocrisy, flip-flopping, or misplaced trust should Trump end up walking back the policies and stance he promised. Those tensions are already playing out across the manosphere, as other hosts who endorsed Trump claim they were duped or regret their support.

Still, Rogan and the manosphere have come to represent the antithesis to liberal cosmopolitanism of the 2010s; and they now embody Americas age of distrust, skepticism, and rejection of the status quo.
One of North Carolinas largest school districts is now limiting what is heard at school board meetings by stopping the online livestream of remarks made by the public.

The Johnston County school board broadcasts its regular monthly meetings on YouTube. Until Tuesday, that included the remarks made by speakers during the public comment part of the meeting.

But school board chair Lyn Andrews announced on Tuesday that the practice would stop.

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Theres no attempt here to prevent transparency, no attempt to deny access or people to share information, Andrews said before the broadcast was turned off Tuesday. But it is our responsibility to do the things that we feel are in the best interests of Johnston County Public Schools.

State law requires local governing bodies such as school boards, city councils and county commissioners to offer at least one public comment session per month at their meetings.

But state law doesnt require governing bodies to stream their meetings online or to stream the public comment portion.

The school district will no longer facilitate the distribution of the information shared through public comment, Andrews said. We do this with the advice of our counsel, legal counsel. There are numerous ways to contact people in our district.

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Andrews said only two people signed up to speak Tuesday night.

The News & Observer reached out to Johnston school district representatives but has not yet heard back.

Teachers, staff, students, parents and community members, all of those who want to come and share their thoughts with this board are welcome, Andrews said. We will always listen and were always going to take into consideration what you want to share with us because its important to us.

Other Triangle school boards such as Wake County, Durham and Chapel Hill-Carrboro stream the public comment sections of their meetings.

Speakers question board during public comment

Johnston County is North Carolinas seventh-largest school district. It has 37,000 students.

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The school board is officially nonpartisan but has a Republican majority.

Speakers have shown up at school board meetings in recent months to speak about issues such as:
JOLIET, Ill. (WGN)  Joliet police are mourning the death of a longtime police officer, who the department says passed away unexpectedly on Monday.

K-9 Officer Daniel Willis, 52, was a dedicated 20-year veteran of the Joliet Police Department. He first began his law enforcement career with the Palos Hills Police Department. Willis would then serve as a Sheriffs Deputy with the Cook County Sheriffs Office and later as an officer with the Chicago Police Department, according to Joliet police.

Willis would then join Joliet police in 2005. Most recently, Willis served in the departments K-9 unit alongside his partner, K-9 Andy. He was also a member of the Joliet Police Honor Guard.

(K-9 Officer Daniel Willis/Joliet Police Department)

Willis died Aug. 11 as a result of complications from a medical procedure while off duty, according to Joliet police.

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He is survived by his wife and two teenage sons.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Members of the Joplin City Council met with staff from the Missouri state auditors office in a closed meeting last week and were able to read a preliminary report of the findings from a petition audit that is now in the final stages of completion.

A closed-meeting notice that cited a session with an auditor  though it did not specify the state auditor  had been posted in advance of the councils regular meeting Aug. 4. That information was reported by The Joplin Globe in a story Aug. 2 detailing the main items on the meeting agenda, including the closed session.

Mayor Keenan Cortez said of the closed session: The (state) auditors were present. They passed out confidential copies of the report. It has all of the findings and concerns in it. We had discussion about it with the audit team.

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There was open and free discussion and we had a robust 1 1/2 hours of discussion, he said.

Council members along with key city administrators, including the city manager, finance director and city attorney, were involved in the meeting. All copies of the preliminary audit report were numbered and were collected at the end of the meeting by auditing staff, and no one was left with a copy, the mayor said.

Our responsibility now is to formally respond in a written document to all the findings, Cortez said. He said he could not disclose any of the details of the report. Then the (auditors) policy is to take the written comments of the city and see if the report is to have revisions based on those responses.

While the mayor said he could not discuss specifics of the report, he did say, I was very encouraged by what I saw.

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They did tell us they would make a public release in 30 to 60 days, Cortez said.

When the final report is finished, the state auditors office will send it electronically to the city.

Three hours after that there will be a media release, the mayor said. The city may have a press conference about the report after its public release.

I would imagine, based on what I saw, it will happen soon, perhaps in September or October, Cortez said of the release of the report.

Based on what he saw, city officials will open a new chapter, based on things learned from the report, the mayor said.

A petition seeking a state audit of the city of Joplin was filed with Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick calling for a city audit.

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The petition was filed by a grassroots organization, Joplin Citizens for Transparent & Honest Government, which started collecting signatures of registered Joplin voters in October 2022 to require an audit. About 2,600 signatures were obtained to trigger the audit.

The group had attended many City Council meetings and made complaints and accusations about decisions involving projects, the uses of city funds and other allegations involving city decisions or city officials.
Jacksonville police are looking for a man accused of stealing a womans purse from an unlocked car.

It happened last month outside a store on Max Leggett Parkway.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Officers say the suspect used her credit cards to spend more than $500 at four stores in the area.

Security cameras caught him shopping with the stolen cards.

JSO is asking anyone with information to call the Sheriffs Office at 904-630-0500. To remain anonymous, call First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.

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JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  Water service has been temporarily extended at a Jackson apartment complex.

On August 13, U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate ordered JXN Water to continue to provide service to Blossom Apartments for an additional seven days.

This Court considers this period of time to be necessary for the tenants to find appropriate alternative housing and to move their furnishings and other property out of the Blossom Apartments complex, said Wingate.

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Some of the issues at the apartment complex include mold, damage and water loss. Before the judge issued his initial order, many of the tenants had been living without water for weeks due to unpaid bills by the apartment complex.

Community unites to aid Blossom Apartments tenants

The Jackson Public School District (JPS) stepped up on August 13 to support families at Blossom Apartments. They set up outside the apartment complex to offer critical support, including school uniforms, hygiene kits and backpacks.

In light of the recent water outage here at Blossom Apartments, the Jackson Public School Districts Homeless Program, we wanted to come out and provide onsite support to our scholars and family. And that includes, providing or identifying them as eligible under our program and then providing additional supports and services that they need to ensure that they have a quality education in our district, said Tiffany Jones, a JPS McKinney-Vento Program manager.

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Blossom Apartments were declared non-compliant by Mississippi Home Corporation, and residents were ordered to leave. On August 12, tenants were able to begin the application process for new housing during at event at Stewpot Community Services.

Jackson Mayor John Horhn said additional support is coming from Region 6 Housing Authority fast-tracking housing vouchers, and Jackson Housing Authority, which is assigning caseworkers to guide residents through the transition process.

No one in our city should ever face the prospect of losing basic services over circumstances beyond their control, Horhn said. Restoring water is just one piece of a bigger push to protect our residents, and were committed to standing by them every step of the way as they move toward safer homes.

The Mayors Housing Task Force will have its first meeting on Monday, August 18.

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A federal judge on Tuesday temporarily ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to improve conditions for migrants it detains in a federal building in downtown Manhattan.

Civil rights groups raised alarm to U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan about conditions in the facility, saying migrants were overcrowded, subjected to extreme temperatures and not provided sufficient access to medication and counsel.

The Justice Department acknowledged migrants were only being given two meals per day and not provided with their medication or sleeping mats. But the government contested other accusations and argued the judge shouldnt intervene because there wasnt presently overcrowding.

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There seems to be quite a gap between the ICE standards, indeed, and whats really happening, Kaplan said at a hearing earlier in the day.

He ordered ICE to provide various items to the migrants upon request, including clean clothing, soap, feminine hygiene products, bedding mats, additional blankets, and access to medication and medical personnel. Migrants must also be given bottled water and a third meal if they want it.

Kaplans five-page ruling additionally mandates immigration officials set up dedicated telephone lines so migrants can call an attorney unmonitored within 24 hours of being detained. They must be allowed to make additional calls every additional 12 hours.

Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the administration will appeal the order. She stressed migrants are only briefly held at the facility and called claims of subprime conditions categorically false.

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This order and this lawsuit are driven by complete fiction about 26 Federal Plaza, McLaughlin said in a statement. The fact of the matter here is the Trump administration is carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history and is removing the worst of the worst from American communities.

Todays order sends a clear message: ICE cannot hold people in abusive conditions and deny them their Constitutional rights to due process and legal representation, Eunice Cho, senior staff attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), said in a statement. The ACLU helped bring the case.

Well continue to fight to ensure that peoples rights are upheld at 26 Federal Plaza and beyond, Cho continued.

The ruling lasts up to two weeks, and the judge is set to soon consider whether to grant a longer injunction.

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This is a first step, in my view, Kaplan said at the hearing.

And my conclusion here is that there is a very serious threat of continuing irreparable injury, given the conditions that Ive been told about, he continued. I have no enforceable way of assuring that any progress that, in fact, has been made wont backslide very quickly.

Kaplan is an appointee of former President Clinton.

ICE has set up the holding facility in an office building at Federal Plaza in downtown Manhattan. Civil rights groups have accused ICE of using it to support systematic arrests of migrants who appear for immigration court proceedings in the building.

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At Tuesdays hearing, Justice Department attorney Jeffrey Oestericher said only 26 individuals were currently being held in the facility, which consists of four rooms. The plaintiffs had said as many as 90 people were recently held in just several hundred square feet.

Present conditions are relevant, Oestericher told the judge. To the extent they are talking about overcrowding, it does not appear presently that there is overcrowding.

Oestericher said he didnt have firm numbers yet on the facilitys recent history because of the fast speed of the case but he would provide that answer to the court.

I think we all agree that conditions at 26 Federal Plaza need to be humane, and we obviously share that belief. I think there is some factual disagreement, he said.

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Democrats have increasingly taken aim, too. Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), whose district includes the facility, is suing the Trump administration over allegations he was unlawfully denied access to tour it in June. ICE personnel told him they werent obligated to provide access because it is not a detention facility.

Updated on Aug. 13 at 9:32 a.m. EDT

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A judge has ordered that a breast-feeding mom be released after three weeks in ICE custody, stating that the Trump administration had violated its Biden-era policy that states nursing mothers will not be detained.

Antonia Aguilar Maldonado, 26, was arrested by federal agents on July 17. She came to the United States from El Salvador as a teenager and has no criminal history and has been seeking asylum in Minnesota.

Hannah Brown, one of her attorneys, told the court Tuesday that her client is experiencing emotional distress while separated from her two children, who are U.S. citizens, including her youngest whom she is breastfeeding.

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Maldonados toddler is allergic to other forms of milk, and so unfortunately, this baby has been without his mothers milk now for 26 days, and she wants to get to him right away and start nursing, said Maldonados other attorney, Gloria Contreras Edin, according to CBS News.

Fox 9

According to the NIH, failure to breastfeed may result in several long-term health risks for mothers and infants. If a mother stops nursing for an extended period, milk production may cease.

Maldonados relatives, who have been caring for her toddler and six-year-old son, have been feeding the toddler solid food instead of milk, Contreras Edin told the Daily Beast on Wednesday.

Maldonado lives in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, where she works as a house painter, and has been raising her two children with her husband, who ICE also detained on July 17. Details about his case have not been released.

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U.S. District Judge Susan Richard Nelson ordered Maldonado to be released on a $10,000 bond, which Maldonados Saint Paul church has helped raise.

In the courts view, the irreparable harm to separating a nursing mother and her child is self-evident, Nelson said, adding that federal agents made a mistake when they arrested her, CBS reports.

Gloria Contreras Edin, one of Maldonado's attorneys, said that her son was allergic to other kinds of milk and that her custody made it difficult for Maldonado to pump milk to send to him regularly. / CBS News Minnesota

Church members and Maldonados friends supported her during the proceedings and broke into a standing ovation upon Nelsons decision on Tuesday, Fox 9 reports.

Maldonado is expected to step free at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Maldonados case will continue to work its way through immigration court.

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It will likely be an uphill battle. Before the case got to Nelsons circuit court, an immigration judge had already ordered Maldonados release, which the DHS appealed, keeping her at Kandiyohi County Jail until Wednesday, according to Fox 9.

Maldonados friend Telma Vides was elated to hear the news of Maldonado's release. / CBS News Minnesota

Attorneys Brown and Contreras Edin maintain that Maldonado has not broken any rules and that she has an active asylum application. Im going to have to work very hard to make sure Ms. Maldonado stays free from detention, Contreras Edin said.

It is just amazing what God can do to get her out where it was not a possibility, Maldonados friend Telma Vides told Fox 9.

The Daily Beast has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for comment.
A federal judge ordered the Trump administration on Tuesday to restore some of the funding it cut from the University of California, Los Angeles in late July, handing a partial victory to the UC system as it faces a $1 billion settlement demand from the White House over alleged antisemitism on campus.

It was not immediately clear how much money would be returned to the campus. The ruling is only expected to apply to around 300 grants from the National Science Foundation out of the roughly 800 awards the Trump administration suspended, totaling $584 million, from the NSF, National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy.

Judge Rita F. Lin of the Northern District Court of California had already sided with the UC in June when she barred the National Science Foundation from terminating additional grants to UC researchers. In her ruling Tuesday, Lin said the foundation had violated that order by cutting off funding to UCLA and ordered any suspended grants by the agency between July 30 and Aug. 12 to be restored.

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The Trump administration last week demanded that UCLA pay a $1 billion fine to resolve alleged civil rights violations and agree to sweeping changes to campus protest rules and admissions standards in order to access the grant money. The UC Board of Regents held an emergency meeting Monday on the proposal, President Donald Trumps latest attempt to force higher education institutions to pay steep penalties for what the White House calls civil rights violations.

Attorneys for the Trump administration during a virtual hearing Tuesday argued that the July funding freeze was an indefinite suspension, distinct from the grant terminations outlawed by Lins prior ruling. But Lin ruled there is no "principled difference between the two terms.

The suspensions have the same effect, and are based on the same type of deficient explanations, as the original terminations, Lin wrote.

Claudia Polsky, director of the environmental law clinic at UC Berkeley and an attorney for the plaintiffs, said after the ruling that she expected Judge Lin to call NSF on its semantic evasion.

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We are delighted that millions of dollars of grants wrongfully held hostage in the Administration's political negotiations with UCLA will now be restored, Polsky said.

Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law who also serves as counsel for the researchers, said during the hearing that the government's position would make a mockery of the court's order.

The government could simply take every termination, call it a suspension  and then avoid the court's order, Chemerinsky said. When you look at it from the perspective of researchers, a suspension has exactly the same effect as a termination. The research has to stop, labs will need to close, graduate students and post docs will lose their jobs. Papers won't be published.

Michael Velchik, an attorney with the Department of Justice, contended that the Trump administration also initially treated the funding cuts to Ivy League schools such as Harvard and Columbia as suspensions, allowing the universities to take corrective actions or begin settlement negotiations.

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Lin had issued a preliminary injunction in June that ordered the Trump administration to restore millions of dollars in funding in a lawsuit brought by six UC researchers. The plaintiffs in that case, the first-class action lawsuit challenging Trumps grant terminations, included the UCLA funding cuts as part of that injunction.

Lin gave the Trump administration one week to comply with the ruling or explain why funding had not been restored. The administration could also appeal the ruling to the Ninth Circuit.
By Kanishka Singh and Nate Raymond

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A U.S. judge on Tuesday ordered President Donald Trump's administration to restore a part of the federal grant funding that it recently suspended for the University of California, Los Angeles.

U.S. District Judge Rita Lin in San Francisco ruled that the grant funding suspensions violated an earlier June preliminary injunction where she ordered the National Science Foundation to restore dozens of grants that it had terminated at the University of California.

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That order had blocked the agency from cancelling other grants at the University of California system, of which UCLA is a part.

"NSF's actions violate the Preliminary Injunction," Lin, an appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden, wrote. The White House and the university had no immediate comment on the ruling.

UCLA said last week the government froze $584 million in funding. Trump has threatened to cut federal funds for universities over pro-Palestinian student protests against U.S. ally Israel's military assault on Gaza.

The Los Angeles Times newspaper reported that the judge's order asked for the restoration of more than a third of the suspended $584 million funding.

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The University of California said last week it was reviewing a settlement offer by the Trump administration for UCLA in which the university will pay $1 billion. It said such a large payment would "devastate" the institution.

The government alleges universities, including UCLA, allowed antisemitism during the protests.

Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say the government wrongly equates their criticism of Israel's war in Gaza and its occupation of Palestinian territories with antisemitism, and their advocacy for Palestinian rights with support for extremism.

Experts have raised free speech and academic freedom concerns over the Republican president's threats. Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom called the Trump administration's settlement offer a form of extortion.

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Large demonstrations took place at UCLA last year. Last month, UCLA agreed to pay over $6 million to settle a lawsuit alleging antisemitism. It was also sued this year over a 2024 violent mob attack on pro-Palestinian protesters.

Rights advocates note a rise in antisemitism, anti-Arab bias and Islamophobia due to conflict in the Middle East. The Trump administration has not announced equivalent probes into Islamophobia.

The government has settled its probes with Columbia University, which agreed to pay over $220 million, and Brown University, which said it will pay $50 million. Both accepted certain government demands. Settlement talks with Harvard University are ongoing.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Additional reporting by Nate Raymond; Editing by Michael Perry)
The government has defended its decision to reject the proposal report for the NairobiMombasa (Usahihi) Expressway, saying it failed to meet the set evaluation criteria.

In a public notice dated August 12, 2025, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) stated that it had been presented with a Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) to build, design, finance, operate, maintain, and ultimately transfer the road in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework. The expressway would have run 459 kilometres from Mlolongo in Machakos County to Bonje in Mombasa County.

KeNHA had initially granted the proposal conditional approval to advance to the Project Development Phase (PDP). The project proponent then carried out the required activities and submitted feasibility study reports in May 2025. KeNHA evaluated these documents in line with Section 43(9) of the PPP Act, 2021, which requires the Contracting Authority to review all outcomes from the PDP.

After completing its review, KeNHA sent its evaluation report to the PPP Directorate, which made recommendations to the PPP Committee. The National Treasury & Economic Planning, through the PPP Committee, reached its decision during the committees 54th Ordinary meeting on July 2, 2025.

According to the notice, the Committee ruled that the proposal failed to meet the required criteria and should be abandoned under Section 43(11)(c) of the PPP Act, 2021.

Project to Be Restructured

The Committee also instructed the Contracting Authority to restructure the project so it can meet the evaluation standards by expanding the existing A8 highway. It noted that the revised plan could then be submitted again for a fresh review, in line with Section 43(12) of the PPP Act, 2021.

KeNHA said it made the disclosure in line with the PPP Act, 2021, the April 24, 2025 circular on public disclosure requirements, and the governments pledge to maintain transparency in all its projects.

KeNHA remains committed to strictly adhering to the provisions of the PPP Act, 2021 and further assures the public that it will endeavour to abide by the provisions of the PPP Act, 2021, the authority stated.

The agency added that, despite the decision on the Usahihi proposal, the Government of Kenya remains determined to deliver vital infrastructure to Kenyans.
UCLA said last week the government froze $584 million in funding over campus protests on the Israel-Hamas War.

A US judge on Tuesday ordered President Donald Trump's administration to restore a part of the federal grant funding that it recently suspended for the University of California, Los Angeles.

US District Judge Rita Lin in San Francisco ruled that the grant funding suspensions violated an earlier June preliminary injunction where she ordered the National Science Foundation to restore dozens of grants that it had terminated at the University of California.

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That order had blocked the agency from canceling other grants at the University of California system, of which UCLA is a part.

"NSF's actions violate the Preliminary Injunction," Lin, an appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden, wrote. The White House and the university had no immediate comment on the ruling.

UCLA said last week the government froze $584 million in funding. Trump has threatened to cut federal funds for universities over pro-Palestinian student protests against US ally Israel's military assault on Gaza.

It was not immediately clear how much of the frozen funding was the judge ordering to be restored.

Signs in support of Palestinians in Gaza are set up along with reinforcements to block the doorway of a building at an encampment after protesters were asked to leave by UCLA campus police at the University of California, Los Angeles, California, US, May 2, 2024. (credit: REUTERS/AUDE GUERRUCCI)

UCLA reviews Trump admin settlement

The University of California said last week it was reviewing a settlement offer by the Trump administration for UCLA in which the university will pay $1 billion. It said such a large payment would "devastate" the institution.

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The government alleges universities, including UCLA, allowed antisemitism during the protests.

Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say the government wrongly equates their criticism of Israel's war in Gaza and its occupation of Palestinian territories with antisemitism, and their advocacy for Palestinian rights with support for extremism.

Experts have raised free speech and academic freedom concerns over the Republican president's threats. Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom called the Trump administration's settlement offer a form of extortion.

Large demonstrations took place at UCLA last year. Last month, UCLA agreed to pay over $6 million to settle a lawsuit alleging antisemitism. It was also sued this year over a 2024 violent mob attack on pro-Palestinian protesters.

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Rights advocates note a rise in antisemitism, anti-Arab bias and Islamophobia due to conflict in the Middle East. The Trump administration has not announced equivalent probes into Islamophobia.

The government has settled its probes with Columbia University, which agreed to pay over $220 million, and Brown University, which said it will pay $50 million. Both accepted certain government demands. Settlement talks with Harvard University are ongoing.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- A judge ordered hundreds of millions of dollars in funding to be partially restored to the University of California, Los Angeles, after the Trump administration cut more than a half-billion dollars in federal money.

U.S. District Judge Rita F. Lin ruled that the pause violated her previous order which said the administration must restore millions in research funding from the National Science Foundation, but the exact amount that would be reinstated was not immediately clear.

Around 800 grants last month were suspended by the Trump administration over accusations of anti-Semitism on the school campus.

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The U.S. Department of Justice claimed that UCLA failed to protect Jewish and Israeli students during pro-Palestine protests that erupted on campus, among others throughout the country over Israel's war with Hamas and the growing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

UCLA is in the middle of a billion-dollar settlement proposal with the federal government, following Columbia University, which agreed to pay $221 million in fines to settle similar accusations against the private New York City university.

On Tuesday, former President Joe Biden's HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, now a candidate for California governor, called it a "ransom payment" in a social media post and urged university leaders to "stand strong" in the face of "authoritarian threats."

At UCLA, the funding cuts impacted federal funding via the National Science Foundation and other agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and U.S. Department of Energy gutting nearly $585 million from the university's bottom line.

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But Tuesday's ruling, which was brought on by university researchers, is expected to apply to only roughly 300 grants.

Meanwhile, Lin gave the White House one week to comply with her order or issue an outline why UCLA's funding had not been restored as instructed.

The administration has the option to appeal Tuesday's ruling to the San Francisco-headquartered U.S. Ninth Circuit.

On Wednesday, Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., called UCLA the president's "latest target in his war on America's top universities" and noted the $584 million funding restoration was over a third of what was frozen in July.

"We'll keep standing up for academic freedom," Padilla posted on X before Noon.
A single justice of the states highest court largely denied a petition from the Committee for Public Counsel Services asking her to impose a rare protocol in the juvenile courts amid an ongoing work stoppage by private defense attorneys.

CPCS is the states public defender agency, and represents about 30% of children charged with crimes in Massachusetts. The remaining 70% are handled by bar advocates, many of whom have stopped taking new cases amid a pay dispute.

The committee had claimed in its initial filing that a growing number of children were going unrepresented in juvenile courts in Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk counties. As a result, it argued that the justice, Dalila Argaez Wendlandt, should impose what is known as the Lavallee protocol in the juvenile courts.

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In the adult court system, where the Lavallee protocol has been in place since early July, defendants can be released after seven days if they dont have a lawyer, and have their case dismissed if they still arent represented after 45.

But Wendlandt found the situation in the juvenile courts was not so dire that it warranted the imposition of the protocol, which the court has described as strong medicine.

At this time, however, I conclude that the concern raised by the petition, regarding unrepresented juveniles whose delinquency cases have been delayed prior to arraignment by the unavailability of counsel, is better addressed on an individualized, case-by-case basis, she wrote in an order handed down on Tuesday.

By the time the petition went before Wendlandt for an evidentiary hearing last week, all but the courts in Suffolk, Middlesex and Norfolk counties had been dropped from the case.

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At the hearing, a lawyer representing the states trial court system told Wendlandt there were 65 defendants under the age of 18 who didnt have lawyers in the juvenile courts in Suffolk, Middlesex and Norfolk counties. A large portion of those 65 are in Suffolk County, which includes Boston.

None of those 65 defendants had been arraigned without a lawyer, Wendlandt noted in her order. While there are a small number of juveniles detained in Suffolk County, none are being detained in Norfolk or Middlesex.

CPCS has not shown that the number of unrepresented juveniles held in custody supports the petitions request for systemic relief called for by the Lavallee protocol in the Remaining Courts, Wendlandt wrote.

Still, the numbers in Suffolk County suggest the potential for an imminent failure on the part of the Commonwealth to meet its statutory and constitutional obligation promptly to provide effective counsel for each unrepresented juvenile, she added.

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Wendlandt concluded that the situation in the county could be managed by specific record-keeping and information sharing between the courts, CPCS and prosecutors. She denied the petition as it applied to the other county courts.

In the order, she notes that the law allows judges to dismiss cases for lack of representation regardless of the Lavallee protocol being in place. As a result, the courts could set hearings for as-yet unrepresented juveniles where individual judges could opt to dismiss their cases, Wendlandt wrote.

It is incumbent on the Remaining Courts to set hearings promptly to investigate whether, at that time, despite good faith efforts by CPCS and the local [bar advocates], counsel is unavailable for these unrepresented juveniles and, if counsel remains unavailable, whether dismissal without prejudice is warranted, the order reads.

The same is true for Suffolk County, where at least five defendants under 18 are unrepresented and being held in custody, Wendlandt wrote.

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Dismissing a case without prejudice allows prosecutors to reopen it, which is typically done with the filing of a new criminal complaint.

The unique setup of the juvenile courts also contributed to Wendlandts decision not to impose the protocol. She notes that the continuation of arraignments is a common practice in the juvenile courts, allowing defendants to be placed in diversion programs that allow the dismissal of their case before they are arraigned.

The states courts had argued that imposing the Lavallee protocol would foil their efforts to provide rehabilitative services to juveniles.

Wendlandt ordered the courts, CPCS and prosecutors to provide her updates every 30 days on the situation in the Suffolk County juvenile courts, including how many defendants were unrepresented, how many were arraigned without a lawyer and how long their cases have been pending without a lawyer.

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The first of those updates is due Sept. 15. After each, Wendlandt will determine if a hearing is necessary.

Lavallee Protocol

Read the original article on MassLive.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP/WPRI)  The head of a prominent coalition that advocates for gun rights in Rhode Island said the organization is planning to appeal a recent court decision upholding state restrictions on who can openly carry a handgun in public.

In a ruling issued Aug. 1, Rhode Island U.S. District Judge William Smith granted Attorney General Peter Neronhas motion for summary judgment that dismisses a lawsuit filed by a coalition of gun owners in 2023.

The lawsuit stems from a Rhode Island law dictating how the state issues firearms permits.

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SEE ALSO: McKee signs modified assault weapons ban into law

Smith determined that the 2nd Amendment allows the state to deny unrestricted permits for open carry if they fail to show a proper need, as determined by the attorney general.

The plaintiffs, largely led by Michael ONeil, a lobbyist for the Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition and a firearm instructor, said in their initial complaint that the attorney generals office denied all seven of their applications in 2021 for an unrestricted firearm permit, allowing both open and concealed carry. Court documents show that the attorney generals office denied their permits because all of them had been granted restricted permits, which only allowed concealed carry.

Under Rhode Island law, permits of this nature are a privilege and there is no constitutionally protected liberty interest in obtaining one, Smith wrote in his decision.

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The plaintiffs had hoped for a similar ruling handed down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022, where the justices struck down a New York state law that had restricted who could obtain a permit to carry a gun in public.

Similar to Rhode Island, New Yorks law had required residents to show an actual need to carry a concealed handgun in public for self-defense.

Yet, notably, Smith said in his ruling that the high courts 2022 ruling did not declare that the Second Amendment requires open carry, but even if it did, Rhode Islands law is within the Nations historical tradition of regulation.

Neronha praised Smiths decision, stating he will continue to vigorously defend Rhode Islands gun violence prevention laws to ensure the public safety of all Rhode Islanders.

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Frank Saccoccio, president of the Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition, said his organization believes Smiths reasoning conflicts with the U.S. Supreme Courts landmark 2022 Bruen decision, which narrowed state discretion over gun possession.

The plaintiffs expect to file an appeal by the end of the month, Saccoccio said.

NEXT: Warwick store gives away free firearms

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A federal judge on Wednesday struck down provisions of a Florida law thats been used to remove hundreds of books from public school libraries since it was enacted in 2023.

Its a complete knockout. Theres not a single issue that the court did not side with the plaintiffs on, said Dan Novack, attorney for Penguin Random House, which filed the lawsuit along with other publishers, several authors and parents, who argued the state law infringed on their First Amendment rights.

Judge Carlos Mendoza of the U.S. Middle District Court of Florida struck down part of the law (HB 1069) that made it easier to challenge books if they included any sexual content. The law prompted worried public school educators across Florida to remove from shelves classic novels, such as Anna Karenina, and picture books that had drawings of childrens bare bottoms, such as No, David!

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The Florida Department of Education did not respond to a request for comment late Wednesday, but Novack said he expects the state to appeal the ruling.

But for now, the decision on whether a book is appropriate for Florida schools reverts back to the Supreme Court precedent known as the Miller Test, Novack said. That means a book is viewed as obscene if, taken as a whole, it appeals to prurient interest, is patently offensive, or lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

The 2023 law, however, made educators worried that any sexual content was questionable. That feeling was enhanced when new state training for school librarians warned them to err on the side of caution when approving books and that they can face criminal penalties and lose their teaching certificates if they approve inappropriate books.

As a result, Florida led the country in school book bans last year with 4,561 instances in the states public schools, according to a report by free-speech group PEN America.

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In his ruling, Mendoza listed books that had been removed from Florida schools under multiple unconstitutional applications of HB 1069, including The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut and Looking for Alaska and Paper Towns by John Green, among others.

None of these books are obscene, Mendoza wrote.

State officials argued, however, that Florida was entitled to regulate books in public school libraries and that such actions amounted to allowed government speech.

During oral arguments in May, Frederick Sperling, another lawyer for the plaintiffs, argued against the states government speech claim using a previous federal court ruling  which Mendoza agreed with in his ruling.

A well-appointed school library could include copies of Platos The Republic, Machiavellis The Prince, Thomas Hobbes Leviathan, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels Das Kapital, Adolf Hitlers Mein Kampf, and Alexis de Tocquevilles Democracy in America, Sperling said. If placing these books on the shelf of public school libraries constitutes government speech, the State is babbling prodigiously and incoherently.
The exterior of the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island building is seen undergoing construction in downtown Providence on July 24, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

A federal judge in Rhode Island has sided with a coalition of domestic violence support groups, including one in Pennsylvania, in momentarily barring the federal government from enforcing a newly imposed set of restraints on Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) grants.

Senior District Judge William E. Smith of the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued his 27-page ruling on Friday, Aug. 8, granting the preliminary stay requested by the plaintiffs  an assembly of 17 state-level coalitions who work with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors. Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit against U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence is part of the suit.

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SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

The preliminary stay halts the Office on Violence Against Women, an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice which distributes the VAWA grants, from instituting conditions the agency was set to apply to grant applications starting Tuesday, Aug. 12. The funding policy change would require grant applicants to align their projects and services with President Donald Trumps wide-ranging directives to discontinue federal funding of DEI and what the administration calls gender ideology.

This order is a critical step toward protecting survivors and ensuring that communities across the country can continue to provide the services Congress mandated, the plaintiffs said in a joint statement issued Friday. The administrations attempt to politicize essential funding that supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault was not just unlawful, it was cruel.

The plaintiffs legal team included attorneys from Democracy Forward, the ACLU of Rhode Island, the National Womens Law Center, the Lawyers Committee for Rhode Island, and Daniel Jacobson, a former counsel for the U.S. Office of Management and Budget during the Biden administration, and now head of Jacobson Lawyers Group.

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Jacobson and Democracy Forwards Kristen Bateman made their case during a July 29 hearing before Smith, arguing that the Office on Violence Against Women violated the Administrative Procedure Act by unlawfully instituting the new funding conditions.

The organizations who rely on these funds, the attorneys argued, would see their work imperiled if they had to forgo federal funding critical to their operations. Applicants also had to certify adherence with the new restrictions, which attorneys argued could trigger future federal prosecution under the False Claims Act.

Smith agreed in his ruling that the plaintiffs were likely to prevail on at least one of their Administrative Procedure Act claims. There was not enough evidence for the court to conclude whether or not the restrictions are fundamentally invalid, Smith wrote. But, the judge argued, administrative law is designed to provide clear reasoning for the actions taken by federal agencies  something absent in the offices adoption of the new funding conditions.

The Court understands that this matter arises on an expedited basis, and perhaps a fuller administrative record will disclose more of the Offices decisionmaking process, Smith wrote. But on the present record, the Court can only conclude that the Office engaged in a wholly under-reasoned and arbitrary process.

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Smiths ruling returned several times to a court document he had discussed at the July 29 hearing: a declaration from Ginger Baran Lyons, the deputy director of the Office on Violence Against Women, that was filed on behalf of the federal governments case.

The Office provides, as the only basis for its decision, a single declaration by an Office supervisory official, Smith wrote. While helpful, that declaration is not a substitute for an administrative record.

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During the hearing, Smith noted that Lyons declaration painted a vastly different landscape of how her office would interpret the new funding conditions, compared to the conditions actual language. Smith underlined that disconnect in his ruling, writing that the plaintiff groups would only find cold comfort in the agencys reassurance that it would not treat survivors of violence differently than it has in the past.

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In the context of this case and the present Administration, Smith wrote, the words of President Ronald Reagan have never rang more true: The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: Im from the Government, and Im here to help.

Smith was also unmoved by the feds arguments that the office would be unlikely to recover the grant funds once they are disbursed, and that the public . . . has an interest in the judiciary respecting the Executive Branchs ability to lawfully direct and guide agencies spending decisions.

The relief sought by the coalitions, Smith noted, did not require any disbursement of grant funds, just a shift in the conditions attached to them.

And speaking of respect, Smith added, the public has an interest in the Executive respecting the Legislatures spending decisions.

Alexander Castro covers education, health and technology for the Rhode Island Current, which is part of States Newsroom and a sister outlet of the Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A federal judge in San Francisco is weighing whether the Trump administration violated federal law by sending National Guard troops to accompany immigration agents on raids in Southern California.

A three-day trial on the matter concluded Wednesday.

California has argued the troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits military enforcement of domestic laws. Lawyers for the administration said the law doesnt apply because President Donald Trump called up the National Guard under an authority that allows their deployment if "the president is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States.

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Federal and military officials were called to testify, and the trial's third day largely focused on weedy arguments about the 1878 law and whether the court even had a role in determining the limits of presidential power.

Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard members and later 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June after protests in response to immigration raids around the city. They were originally deployed to protect federal property, including a detention center targeted by protesters. The Guard members later began guarding agents as they continued arresting people suspected of being in the U.S. illegally. Between 250 and 300 Guard troops remain and have been activated through November.

Wednesday's arguments

Deputy Assistant Deputy Assistant Attorney General Eric Hamilton said Wednesday that the Posse Comitatus Act does not apply because the Guard was deployed under a section of U.S. Code that allows the president to call any state's guard into federal service when the country is invaded, when there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government, or when the president is unable to execute the laws of the United States.

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He said Guard members weren't engaged in law enforcement and were just providing backup security for federal agents.

If the purpose is the protection of law enforcement officers, it isn't law enforcement in the first place, he said. On top of that, theres the fact that a (president's) constitutional inherent protective power is at work. That is itself an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act.

California Deputy Attorney General Meghan Strong argued the troops role went beyond providing protection to federal agents and buildings. The troops, she said, had an active, direct role enforcing the law when they detained people at least in two occasions and set up roadblocks and perimeters blocking access to public streets.

For all the pretense and wordsmithing defendants have tried to employ, the facts are inescapable: The activities defendants have ordered Task Force 51 troops to engage in across Southern California violate the Posse Comitatus Act, she said. Task Force 51 was the name of the command post activated to coordinate the troops deployment deployment.

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The Trump administration, she said, broke the law by using the troops to illegally enforce civilian law and operate as a single force with federal immigration officers, who often don military garb.

California is asking Judge Charles Breyer to order the Trump administration to return control of the remaining troops to the state and to stop the federal government from using military troops in California to execute or assist in the execution of federal law or any civilian law enforcement functions by any federal agent or officer.

Judge weighs whether troops crossed the line

The question in this case is whether the troops that have been stationed in Los Angeles have or have not crossed that line, said David Levine, a professor at UC College of the Law San Francisco. Are they acting as military or are they acting as police? They cant act as police. They can only act within their bounds.

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Troops deployed to Southern California received at least 60 requests for assistance from federal officials and responded to the majority of them, Hamilton told the judge.

Army Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who commanded Task Force 51, said there were some times when troops outnumbered federal officers. He said that during an immigration enforcement at an illegal marijuana growing operation in Mecca, a desert community about 140 miles (225 kilometers) east of Los Angeles, about 300 task force soldiers were present, compared to 200 federal law enforcement agents.

National Guard troops also accompanied federal immigration officers on raids at two state-licensed marijuana nurseries in Ventura County and to an operation at MacArthur Park in downtown Los Angeles intended as a show of force against people in the U.S. illegally and those protesting the Trump administrations immigration crackdown.

Sherman testified during the second day of the trial that he raised concerns the deployment could violate the Posse Comitatus Act.

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He said soldiers were trained on the law and given materials that included a list of specific activities prohibited by the act, including doing security patrols and conducting traffic control, crowd control and riot control.

Sherman said that while the Posse Comitatus Act prohibits troops from carrying out those actions, he was told by his superiors that there was a constitutional exception that permitted such activities when the troops are protecting federal property or personnel.
Two South Texas bakery owners are guilty of concealing and harboring employees in the U.S. illegally, a jury found Wednesday afternoon following a trial that only lasted three days.

Leonardo Baez and Nora Avila-Guel, a Mexican couple who have legal permanent residence in the U.S., were charged after being arrested at their bakery along with eight employees in February. It's a rare case in which business owners are charged with criminal offenses rather than just a fine.

Six of the employees had visitor visas, and two were in the country illegally. None had permission to work in the U.S. Employees lived in a room with six beds and shared two bathrooms in the same building as the bakery, according to the federal affidavit.

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Baex and Avila-Guel were tried this week in Brownsville, a border city about a 20 minutes drive southeast of their Los Fresnos bakery. The jury heard from five government witnesses, including an agent who was present during the raid, before U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez, Jr. The defense presented no witnesses.

Videos of the interviews with the two employees in the country without visas or work authorization were played during the trial. Both employees said they were not held against their will and were compensated for their work, according to local reporting.

Baezs attorney, Sergio Luis Villarreal, called the verdict heartbreaking.

We were arguing the lack of concealment, the lack of covertness in all this," Villarreal said. "I mean, there was no exploitation, no abuse. No one was there against their will."

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Cesar de Leon, Avila-Guels attorney, said he believed in the enforcement of the law but disagreed in the way it was defined in this case.

We just felt that in this instance, there was really no harboring," he said. "And I think that the law wasnt designed to target people like Nora.

Baez and Avila-Guel were allowed to return to work while they awaited trial. When they reopened their bakery in April, the business had a steady stream of customers return to lend their support. They will continue to be released on bond until their sentencing, which is scheduled for November.
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  A 28-year-old could spend the rest of his life in prison after a jury found him guilty of shooting and killing a man in his car in District Heights nearly six years ago.

Prince Georges County States Attorney Tara Jackson announced Wednesday that Raymond Thompson was convicted of all counts, including first-degree murder, use of a handgun in the commission of a violent crime and wear and carry of a dangerous weapon with intent to injure.

The charges against him stem from Nov. 7, 2019, when he reportedly gunned down 34-year-old Edrian Hernandez, who was in his car at the time.

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Police: Bystanders, family save child from kidnapping at Maryland fair

This case is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence in our community, said Interim States Attorney Jackson, in part. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in this way.

Thompson faces a maximum of life in prison without the possibility of parole and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20 this 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
Aug. 12SUPERIOR  A Douglas County man who was convicted of kidnapping, false imprisonment and sexual assault in 1984 remains committed for treatment under the state's sexual predator law.

On Aug. 6, following a three-day trial in Douglas County Circuit Court, a jury of six found Randall Luostari, 72, was still a sexually violent person.

The proceedings nearly ended in a mistrial, according to court records. One of the jurors researched outside information about the Sand Ridge Secure Treatment Center in Mauston, where Luostari was committed under Chapter 980 of Wisconsin statutes. The juror researched how the jury's verdict could impact his ability to petition for release in the future.

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The juror was dismissed and replaced by an alternate juror who had been present for the entire trial, according to online court records.

The other jurors were questioned and Circuit Court Judge Kelly Thimm denied a motion for mistrial made by Luostari's attorney, Jennifer Cunha. He did add a specific instruction for the remaining jurors.

"You are to decide this case solely on the evidence presented during the trial and not any information this juror shared during deliberation," Thimm said in the instruction.

This is the second time a Douglas County jury has been asked to determine whether Luostari remains a sexually violent person. In 2022, a six-person jury

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reached the same verdict.

Luostari was initially sentenced to 40 years in prison. He had been scheduled for release in 2014, but the Wisconsin Attorney General's Office filed a petition with the court seeking to detain him under

Wisconsin Chapter 980.

The statute allows institutionalization of those convicted of sexually violent crimes who are deemed likely to re-offend.

Douglas County Circuit Court Judge Kelly Thimm found Luostari to be a sexually violent person and filed a commitment order in 2016.

According to court documents, Luostari kidnapped a woman from her bed and drove her to his residence. He chained her to a milk separator in a bedroom and sexually assaulted her repeatedly until visitors heard her call for help.

The incident took place in 1983, three years after Luostari stood trial for the murder of Rose Mary (Krawza) Wermter and was acquitted.
SALT LAKE CITY (WPRI)  Another ex-girlfriend of the Rhode Island fugitive who allegedly faked his own death to avoid criminal prosecution took the stand in his Utah rape trial on Tuesday.

Nicholas Alahverdian, who is also known as Nicholas Rossi, is facing felony rape charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a then-girlfriend in Utah back in 2008. Tuesday began the second day of what is expected to be a five-day trial.

On Monday, jurors heard from the complaining victim in the case. The panel also heard from that womans mother, plus a clinical mental health counselor.

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I was numb: Alleged victim testifies against RI fugitive in Utah rape trial

On Tuesday, another ex-girlfriend who claims she was also sexually assaulted by Alahverdian in 2008 took the stand. Judge Barry Lawrence advised the jury that this alleged assault, which is said to have taken place in a neighboring county, happened before the crime charged in the current case, and that the witness would be able to provide limited testimony.

You may consider this evidence, if at all, for the limited purpose of establishing whether [the victims] testimony was recently fabricated, he said.

Ex-girlfriend called as a witness

The 39-year-old woman said she was 21 years old when she first met Alahverdian. They connected in late August 2008 on MySpace and chatted frequently on MSN Messenger, but then began to hang out in person at his apartment in Orem, Utah.

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She said their relationship was pretty romantic right away and moved quickly. She said he discussed wanting to marry and have children with her.

We were moving a little bit too fast for me, she said. He did always say he would go at my pace, but that never really happened.

The woman also said Alahverdian was very nice at the beginning of their relationship, but added that that changed over the weeks they spent together.

He seemed like he was pretty mad at the world, like everybody was working against him. It just felt like he was entitled to things because he was a victim in the past, she said.

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She also said that Alahverdian was physically and emotionally abusive during their short relationship.

He was rough with me during sex, and then he was always belittling me, telling me things I couldnt do right. I was just emotionally getting drained, she said. He was always telling me that I needed mental help, and I wasnt right. Before we met, I thought that I was doing fine.

Alahverdian also never paid for things on dates, according to the woman. She alleged he even used her credit card without permission to buy a few hundred dollars worth of computer equipment at Best Buy.

He would just be telling me that hed be paying me back, and Id get paid on this day, she said. He just never, ever paid me back, and he just kept putting it off.

Alleged sexual assault

The woman said her frustrations with finances came to a head, and she told Alahverdian she didnt want to talk to him anymore unless he had the money to pay her back.

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Eventually, Alahverdian called her to say that he had the money, so the woman agreed to go to his apartment to pick it up.

I dont exactly remember where we were at entirely [in the apartment], but I do remember he didnt have any money to give me, and that he still wanted to continue the relationship, she said. I was just telling him no, that were not doing that.

I felt like I had been duped into coming there, she continued.

When she tried to leave, she said Alahverdian pinned her to a couch and raped her. I just kind of froze up, she recalled.

She said after this happened, he told her she needed to calm down and to get some help.

Contact with law enforcement

The woman said she eventually told a friend, who advised her to get a rape kit, because if [Alahverdian] was to do this with other people, this would be important.

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The woman said she gave a statement to a male officer at a hospital, underwent an exam, and then made a separate statement to a female detective.

BACKGROUND: DNA dormant for over a decade led to capture of RI man in faked-death case

The woman said she was in contact with Alahverdian after the alleged assault, and that an officer came to her home to return the money Alahverdian owed her.

He [Alahverdian] asked me, since I got the money back, [to] drop the charges, she said. And I told him no, because those were two very different things.

When defense attorneys cross-examined the witness, details of how the incident was reported became murky, in addition to how long the woman would spend at Alahverdians apartment and how the two communicated after the alleged assault.

Alahverdian files a police report

The state also called Sgt. James Thompson, an officer of the Payson Police Department who formerly served at the Orem Police Department. He said he encountered Alahverdian on Sept. 16, 2008, just a few months into his job as a patrol officer.

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Thompson said Alahverdian wanted to report that his girlfriend had raped him, and explained that she had recently reported that he had raped her. He filled out a voluntary statement, which said that on six to eight occasions, his girlfriend was verbally and emotionally abusive and took his money and belongings.

The statement also said that on six to eight occasions, his girlfriend forcibly held him down and kissed him.

She would come to my home and restrain me on my bed and make out with me and forcibly engage in sexual acts, Alahverdians voluntary statement said. She later advised me that the only reason she was sleeping with me was because she hoped to get her money back.

I felt that she broke my trust and didnt help me with what she said she would help me with, my emotions, Alahverdian said in his statement. She violated my body, she hurt me emotionally, and she sexually assaulted me, which she has admitted to in phone and instant messaging conversations.

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The jury also heard from a man who said he and Alahverdian were roommates from about June 2008 until they were evicted that December. He described Alahverdian as annoying and said he didnt like spending time with him.

The roommate said that when Alahverdian talked about wanting a tattoo of the crest of Brown University, he jokingly encouraged him to get it and even went to the appointment with him.

Attempts to avoid prosecution

Alahverdians case drew international attention after he vanished in 2020 and an online obituary claimed he had died of cancer.

Authorities tracked him down in 2021 after he contracted COVID-19 and was admitted to a hospital in Scotland. In the years following, he fought extradition by claiming he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight.

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At a hearing in January 2024, Lawrence granted deputy Salt Lake County attorney Tamara Basquezs request to order that reasonable force be used to bring Alahverdian to his next hearing in March.

A portion of that hearing was played in court on Tuesday as prosecutors questioned Basquez. The attorney identified Alahverdian in the courtroom and said he was the same person who previously claimed to be Knight.

READ MORE: Nicholas Alahverdian admits he changed his name to Arthur Knight

Alexandra Leslie (aleslie@wpri.com) is a Target 12 investigative reporter covering Providence and more for 12 News. Connect with her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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JGI/Jamie Grill via Getty Images

Shes breastfeeding, one uniformed man said to another in lieu of an introduction, but she didnt get approval from HR.

Swallowing a surge of indignation, I didnt bother to repeat that I had read the HR website before coming back to work and thought Id followed all the instructions outlined in my companys Lactation Policy. I shifted the bag, holding my pump further on to my shoulder as I glimpsed the gun sitting on the officers holster. A third officer wandered up, eyeing me with a suspicious squint.

I really need to pump, I said, and glanced down at my body, hoping for an ally in this saga. Met with a blank stare, I shut my mouth again.

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Upon request, I produced my employee ID for the college Ive worked at as an educator for eight years. Id returned to my office that morning for the first time since having my second child.

Through the thick July air, Id lugged my computer, my lunch, and the two additional bags full of the equipment and supplies Id need in order to pump: the electronic machine, the ice, the sealable baggies, the tubes and the nozzles, the markers, the thermos, the plugs, the bottles, the covers and the nipple lubricant.

Related: A Nurse Tortured My Mom As She Gave Birth To My Brother. Hours Later, He Was Dead.

Now I stood in the Public Safety Office trying to access my workplaces Designated Lactation Room. I tried not to think about the tearful goodbye that morning when I dropped my child off at day care. I needed to focus on the goal I had failed to achieve with my first child: to pump milk for him when I returned to work from maternity leave.

Related: Marjorie Taylor Greene Showed My Photo In Congress And Called Me A Monster. Here's Why Im Fighting Back.

Itd already been an hour since I had left my shared office space. Because I work in an urban public university, our Public Safety officers work closely with the Police Department  and are hard to tell apart from them. As I stood there waiting, I felt like a suspect in a procedural drama, Law and Order: Lactating Employees Unit.

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Id sterilized my supplies, steeled my emotions, and peppered my child with kisses as if I could give him a reserve of affection for our hours spent apart. But I was not prepared to be told that the only person who could give me keycard access to the lactation room was working remotely that day.

Pump parts and insulated thermos for transporting milk, April 2024. Photo Courtesy Of Molly Rosner

Hes not in, I was told, the male pronoun making my spine prickle as I tried to navigate this deeply intimate, biological process. I tried to imagine my childs father dictating when I could pump, and the thought made me scoff  and yet this stranger could? Did every single pumping employee and student go through this man to access the room? How many of us were there?

I still need the room today, can someone else help me? I could feel my chest swelling both literally and figuratively, and tried not to let my breasts increasingly urgent plea for relief come through in my voice.

Between my burning cheeks and sweating armpits, my body was melting alongside the bag of ice in my thermos.The colleges campus is deserted in the summer, and I knew the room was waiting there for me, empty. Pingpong-ing from one desk to another mightve made me cry in the past, but now, as a mother of two, I was fortified by milk, hormones, and a mission to get someone to open that door.

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Four phone calls later, the officers located the Man In Charge of the Designated Lactation Room, and I was treated to another small lecture as we walked to his office.

He reiterated that I should have contacted HR while I was still on maternity leave about using this room, and he waited for me to thank him for showing up to grant me access to it. By now, I had added the worry about how long Id been missing from my office to my concerns about pumping.

I can give you 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., does that work? he asked, without looking away from his computer screen on which flashed a completely empty calendar. He prompted me to confirm the exact two 20-minute slots Id need to pump throughout the day.

I tried to explain that I didnt always know precisely what time each day that Id need  and be available  to use the room. When he told me he could not give me any additional access, I accepted his terms, if only to put an end to the interaction.

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At last, I opened the door to the Dedicated Lactation Room, finding disappointingly little that required all of that police protection. It was just a chair in a windowless yellow bunker and a table that was absurdly tiny for this singular task. The round 10-inch surface could precariously fit my pump and the bottles, so long as I didnt put any other supplies there, and balanced the resulting liquid carefully.

No mini fridge, no extra supplies, and certainly no footrest or pillows. I was on company time, the HR booklet  and now the barren room  reminded me.

Dont mistake this for a break, the room suggested, while conveying only a fundamental understanding of what pumping milk entails. Dont even think about distracting yourself, since the tiny table wont allow you to forget for even one second that youre at work.

Words Id read in the lactation policy rang in my head, The employee may ... ask her supervisor whether it would be possible for some or all of the time used to express milk to be made up at the beginning or end of the work day.

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The policys suggestion  that I make up pumping time by working late  revealed its true function: to ensure motherhood never disrupted the workday. Each line of the policy treated lactation as a concession, not a right, a duty or a biological necessity.

Hooked up to the whirring machine, and with little else to look at, I stared at the decal of a clip art-style tree that was adhered to the wall, a single leaf floating down from the branch in the otherwise bare room. The indication that someone had tried to decorate the room somehow made me even sadder.

Related: My Child Brought Home A Pink Princess Nightgown  Then Said 5 Words That Cracked Me Wide Open

As I sat there, with the machine attached to me through my carefully selected pump-friendly blouse and bra, I wondered how many of my stress hormones were transferring into this hard-fought eight ounces of milk. I wondered idly if the lactation rooms at Googles campus have robotic mini fridges that drive themselves to your house after work to deliver your milk, which has been kept at an exact 37 degrees.

Related: At 17, I Gave My Baby Up. I Never Expected The 2-Word Message My Child Would One Day Send Me.

I texted a picture of the room to my postpartum mothers group, each member of whom had navigated their own returns to work. Some had private offices (but still faced awkward interactions and clothing mishaps), while others faced 12-hour shifts and resentful bosses. Either way, the chat was filled with stories of forgotten pump parts, spilled milk (absolutely worth crying over), and disheartened comments about how few ounces theyd be bringing home that day.

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I tried to tell myself the hardest part was over and that soon Id be transporting my liquid gold home. After sloshing around in my thermos across two boroughs and eight flights of subway stairs, I would transfer it to bottles in the fridge, wash all the parts and immediately repack them for the next day.

But the level of interrogation, the flurry of confusion, the strictness of the policy on an empty campus gnawed at me. It was clear no one else had used the room recently. The only conclusion I could draw from this experience was that it was yet another way mothers and employees  and, God forbid, those who are both  are not to be trusted.

I returned to my office, double checking that Id buttoned my shirt, where my supervisor asked why Id been gone so long. I plopped back down at my computer and began to type an email to HR asking why the procedure to access the lactation room was so arduous.

Clinging to the hope that my experience could inform a better policy going forward, I asked why a lock and knocking first wouldnt suffice. Why did I need so many peoples involvement in this fundamental and already challenging maternal act?

The author carrying her baby to daycare drop off and her backpack for returning to work, Summer 2024. Photo Courtesy Of Molly Rosner

During a meeting the next morning, I watched as the clock ticked up and into my allotted pumping time. I finally admitted to my colleagues why I had to go, unable to think of a lie that contained the necessary urgency. I couldnt waste time explaining that my rush resulted not from biological need, but from the demands of my new keycard overlord.

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By the time Id sprinted to the room, I knew the minutes had slipped by and my access would be denied. I blinked back tears as the red light blinked back at me, adding this to the mental checklist of ways I was failing as both an employee and a mom.

By day 3, I began using our communal break room to pump, with a hastily scribbled Do Not Enter sign keeping my co-workers from their water cooler and office supplies for 20 minutes at a time.

By week 3, I received a response to my email from HR which read, I reviewed our policy and found no issues with the procedure for reserving the room. In other words, it was me. I was the problem for not knowing how to better navigate a flawless system.

By then, both my stamina for this fight and my milk had dried up.

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I hadnt really expected the constraints of lactation access on a public campus  where security protocols and scarce private spaces collide  to be solved by one HR administrator. It isnt just about one room; its about how workplaces systemically force mothers to choose between their jobs and their childrens well-being.

The U.S. continues to rank abysmally on parental leave and workplace protections. Even as more states pass laws requiring lactation accommodations, stories like mine show just how far enforcement and cultural change lag behind. If the absurd hurdles I faced while simply trying to use my workplaces lactation room taught me anything, its that the few systems in place to support mothers are, at their core, still distrusting of them.

And until workplaces stop treating motherhood as anything other than essential, both birthrates and employee productivity will continue to decline.

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.

More on HuffPost Personal

Motherhood Erased My Name, And Id Like It Back

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I Gave Birth To My Children In A Car And A Laundromat. When I Finally Made It To The Hospital, I Was Shocked By How I Was Treated.

I Felt Terrified To Raise A Baby Girl In This World. Then, 5 Words From My OB-GYN Gave Me Hope.

Read the original on HuffPost
(The Center Square)  The U.S. Department of Justice announced this week that George Washington University violated federal civil rights laws by doing nothing while Israeli students faced antisemitic discrimination on campus.

The investigation, launched by the Civil Rights Division, found the Washington, D.C. university violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by acting deliberately indifferent to the hostile educational environment for Jewish, American-Israeli and Israeli students and faculty.

The DOJ sent a letter to GWU President Ellen Granberg, stating that despite the notice of abuse that was happening to Jewish students, the school took no action on the complaints received from Jewish and Israeli students and faculty.

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An account, one Jewish GWU student described in the letter, was being surrounded, threatened and ordered to leave by antisemitic protestors after walking out of the university's law school. GWUs assistant dean of students instructed the student to leave because the student's presence, according to the dean, was antagonizing and provoking the crowd.

Another encounter occurred as a Jewish student quietly held up an Israeli flag while protestors linked arms together blocking the student's movement, while the crowd shouted racial slurs. A nearby GWU police officer reportedly did nothing to prevent or intervene in this harassment and instead told the Jewish student to leave the area for his safety.

Every student has the right to equal educational opportunities without fear of harassment or abuse, said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, who heads the DOJ's Civil Rights Division. No one is above the law, and universities that promulgate antisemitic discrimination will face legal consequences.

In a Faculty Senate meeting on Tuesday, President Granberg said the university believes there is no place for antisemitism on campus and defended its commitment to addressing antisemitic actions.

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Granberg also said the university has collaborated with members of GWUs Jewish community to enhance campus safety and create a more welcoming environment for students.

I want to make it very clear that GW condemns antisemitism, Granberg said.

The DOJ requested that GWU enter into a voluntary resolution agreement by Aug. 22.
The Trump administration recently told the Supreme Court that a California judges order put law enforcement in a straitjacket. But plaintiffs who won that lower court order have urged the high court to keep it in place, arguing that lifting it would bless an immigration dragnet ensnaring millions of people in the Los Angeles area  including U.S. citizens  based on how they look and speak, and where they work and congregate.

U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong issued the temporary restraining order against the government on July 11. The Biden appointee said the individuals and groups that sued, which include U.S. citizens, would likely succeed in proving that the government is conducting roving patrols without reasonable suspicion and denying access to lawyers. For now, she said, the government cant rely solely on any combination of the following four factors to make stops: apparent race or ethnicity; speaking Spanish or accented English; presence at a particular location, like a day laborer pickup area; or ones type of work.

After a federal appeals court panel declined to intervene on the administrations behalf, U.S. Solicitor General John Sauer turned to the Supreme Court for help in lifting the order, which he said defies blackletter Fourth Amendment law, imposing a straitjacket on law-enforcement efforts that is inimical to the context- and case-specific totality-of-the-circumstances inquiry that this Courts precedents demand.

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Opposing emergency high court relief, the plaintiffs countered that the judges order broke no new legal ground, and that it does not prevent the government from enforcing the immigration laws, conducting consensual encounters, or relying on any or all of the four factors along with other facts to form reasonable suspicion. They further wrote that the administrations extraordinary claim that it can get very close to justifying a seizure of any Latino person in the Central District [of California] because of the asserted number of Latino people there who are not legally present is anathema to the Constitution.

The administration can file a final reply brief the justices, after which we will learn whether this will be the latest instance of the high court saving the administration from a lower court loss in President Donald Trumps second term.

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
Police in Wyomissing are searching for two people involved in the shooting of a juvenile male Tuesday evening outside of a restaurant.

According to police:

Police were dispatched to the 1000 block of Bern Road about 5:20 p.m. for a report of shots fired.

Responding officers found a juvenile male who had been shot in a leg.

The victim told police that he and two friends had just left the restaurant when they were approached by two unidentified people. The two groups got into an altercation, during which the victim was shot.

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The victim was treated by EMS personnel before being taken by ambulance to Reading Hospital. He is expected to recover from his injury.

Police conducted a coordinated search for the suspects that included officers from Wyomissing, West Reading, Reading, state police, and Spring, Exeter and Cumru townships.

A state police helicopter and an Exeter police department drone were used during the search. Train traffic was temporarily suspended in the area so nearby train tracks could be searched.

Despite the extensive ground and aerial search, the suspects were not located.

Wyomissing police said they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public. They are seeking the communitys assistance in locating the suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wyomissing police at 610-375-6102. Tips can also be submitted through the departments CrimeWatch page or through Crime Alert Berks by calling 1-877-373-9913 or texting 847411 with the keyword ALERTBERKS followed by the message.
After months of struggling and millions of dollars from the city, the Sun Fresh Linwood has closed.

The grocery store on Kansas Citys East side  3110 Wabash Ave.  was locked Tuesday. A black tarp covered its logo, and a sign on its door announced to customers that it would not reopen.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, we are no longer, at this time, able to serve the residents of this important community, the printed note reads.

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It has always been our dream and passion to provide quality products and services in a safe, family environment. At this time, unfortunately, we are unable to do that.

Sun Fresh is closed on Kansas Citys East Side.

Sherae Honeycutt, a spokeswoman for the city, told The Star via email that the city was informed by Community Builders Kansas City it had closed today. She said there is not a new tenant lined up to take the space at the moment.

Sun Fresh is the anchor tenant of the Linwood Shopping Center, which the city purchased in 2014 in hopes of offering more food sources for residents on the East side.

After the city spent $17 million to acquire and redevelop Sun Fresh, it opened in 2018. The nonprofit CBKC took over the store in 2022.

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Earlier this year, city council approved an ordinance for the Community Builders to receive $161,000 in rent relief and $750,000 in expedited funding so that Sun Fresh could remain open.

The ordinance also authorized the city attorney to pay $450,000 to settle legal claims between the city and Community Builders.

Police and security officers stand at the entrance of the SunFresh Market at the Linwood Shopping Center on Sept. 3, 2024.

Despite city investments, the grocery store struggled to stay afloat. Shoppers and employees alike reported safety concerns, with shoppers reporting frequent 911 calls for fights, drug use and public sex.

Teenage grocery shelf stockers were forced to carry tasers.

My staff is in jeopardy every single day, CBKC CEO Emmet Pierson Jr. said in a city meeting last year. Ive been saying this now for a year. For a year.

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Sun Fresh lost $1.3 million in 2023.

Photos and videos of its bare shelves were widely circulated on the internet in recent months and even in The Washington Post.

We are not placing big orders, Pierson told The Star in April. The store is placing orders to fulfill our WIC requirements. WIC is a federal food assistance program for low-income pregnant women and children under the age of 5.

The Stars Ilana Arougheti and David Hudnall contributed to this report.
KANSAS CITY, Kan.  Staffers at the Guss World Famous Fried Chicken restaurant in Kansas City, Kansas, said fallen deputy Elijah Ming was a regular customer before he died.

He would stop by to eat with fellow deputies, usually once a week, staff told FOX4.

KCK billboard challenges adults to curb gun violence

He liked to sit at the same table and in the same chair. Now, a picture of deputy Ming is on display in that corner of the restaurant.

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He was just a really good guy, always smiling, said Traci Ellis, the general manager at Guss.

He would sit with his back against the wall in this chair because he would always want to see people when they walked in and make them feel comfortable as theyre coming in and not intimidated. He wanted to be the first one that they see with a smile on his face.

In response to Deputy Mings tragic death, the restaurant decided to offer free meals to law enforcement officers through July 31.

Ellis said last week, a member of the Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office stopped by with the picture of Ming to put on display near his favorite table.

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He just came in to give me the picture one day last week, and it really tear jerked me up, Ellis said.

She said Ming became a friend to many restaurant staffers  including Luis Vasquez, a server, who challenged Deputy Ming to foot races behind the restaurant.

Hes (Luis) like, I bet you I can beat him (deputy Ming),' Ellis recalled. And I was like, I dont think so.

Hes like, Yeah, hes got all that gear on. I was like, I dont think so.'

Ming accepted the challenge. The races were recorded in videos that Ellis, Vasquez and other restaurant staffers now look back at with fond memories.

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Vasquez said Ming shifted his view of law enforcement.

I grew up around people who thought cops were bad people, he told FOX4. So thats the first label, I guess, that I had for him was a bad cop. Then, after I got to know him during the first race, thats when I realized, okay, hes respectable, hes not as bad as cops seemed.

Then he kind of put an imprint on me that cops werent actually bad. Theyre regular people. They do their job like how Im doing mine.

Ellis and Vasquez were able to attend Deputy Mings funeral on Monday.

We went up there and held up his picture and represented Guss for him, Ellis said. When somebody imprints in your life like that, no matter how tough you are, youre going to tear up.

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I wanted to give my regards to his wife and his kid, Vasquez added. Im sorry that happened to you guys. And I do hope you guys do find happiness.

Ellis said first responders and law enforcement officers are close to the management team at the Guss World Famous Fried Chicken location at 2816 W 47th Ave in Kansas City, Kansas. The restaurant will continue offering its discount for law enforcement officers in Mings honor 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Democratic Rep. Heather Meyer of Overland Park opposed a budget proviso requiring the elimination of pronouns from state employee email signature blocks. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  Kansas state and university employees were told they must remove pronouns from their email signatures and all other work communications as a result of a directive lawmakers inserted into the state budget.

The budget proviso, which threatens constitutional rights to free speech, requires state agencies to remove all diversity, equity and inclusion programming, training and positions. State employees must remove any gender ideology in email signatures and work communications.

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I dont know what was going to be accomplished by this, said Rep. Mike Amyx, D-Lawrence. I couldnt see a positive outcome on it. The potential for somebody to get in trouble because of this bill is real.

Amyx, a ranking minority leader on the higher education budget committee, said the provision puts state universities and their faculty in uncomfortable situations.

I dont even have a direction that I can tell them right now, Amyx said. Im just concerned.

The University of Kansas announced last month that it would comply with a directive from the Kansas Board of Regents. KU employees had until July 31 to remove pronouns from their email signature blocks.

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KU chancellor Doug Girod released a statement July 22 outlining the rules of the ordinance, ending the message stating the KU community is founded on respect and support for one another.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression wrote in a July 28 letter to the Board of Regents that universities following the guidance infringe upon employees First Amendment rights. FIRE said the language in the guidance is overly broad and vague.

We offered to work with the Board to craft alternative guidance that clarifies the scope of the law consistent with the First Amendment, the letter said. However, the President of the Board has told the media he is unlikely to change the guidance.

The organizations letter said it will continue to fight for the rights of employees affected by this new anti-free speech law.

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Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican who is seeking his partys nomination for governor, said in a statement he is proud to have championed this legislation, following President Donald Trumps lead on cutting DEI programming.

 DEI programs promote divisive environments that pressure students and faculty to adopt specific viewpoints, undermining academics and setting Kansas universities back, Masterson said.

Rep. Heather Meyer, D-Overland Park, said she voted against the budget because of its consequences for minority communities across the state. She said the budget proviso proves legislators lack of understanding of the LGBTQ+ and minority communities.

Its just deplorable, Meyer said. Its codifying hatred. Universities have typically been beacons of free speech. To turn into this is awful. We just have to keep fighting.

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She said many state employees wont be able to risk not complying with the budget requirement, especially without a clear understanding of the consequences.

For people who are actively removing their pronouns and dont feel safe in keeping them on there and protest, theres absolutely no judgment about that, Meyer said. Everybody needs to support their family and feel safe speaking out.

The Lawrence Trans Coalition publicly denounced KUs decision to comply with the budget requirement.

The coalition called for overwhelming pushback and recommended wearing pronoun pins to work or calling attention to the budget requirement in email signatures.

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It is genuinely harrowing to see them so quickly comply with an anti-trans bill that has no explicit enforcement mechanisms spelled out within the text, said Lawrence Trans Coalition politics and public relations chair Isaac Johnson. The implication here is that the Kansas Legislature views the mere concept of disclosing pronouns as political extremism that must be oppressed.

Some state employees have said the forced removal of pronouns inherently targets the trans community. The bill does not outline what else can and cant be in an email signature, such as Mr. or Mrs.

If a Kansas state employee wanted to end an email with God bless, they would be allowed. If they wanted to mention their partner, a holiday they celebrate, their heritage, they would be allowed to do that, Johnson said. The sharing of pronouns is a practice meant to signal to others that they are safe to disclose their trans status with them. This ban actively robs state employees from promoting that.
Danny Zeck, a member of the Kansas State Board of Education, appears at a July 8, 2025, board meeting. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  Judith Deedy said theres been a disconnect for a decade in Kansas student assessment scores.

Her oldest child once earned fives  the highest level at the time  until 2015, when she began scoring at level three after the assessment scores changed.

The Kansas assessment has persistently been an outlier for all of the three children in my own family and for thousands of students across the state, as data has shown, Deedy, a public education advocate, said at a Tuesday meeting of the Kansas State Board of Education.

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State assessment scores have shown a steady increase in the number of Kansas students scoring lower on math, science and English language arts tests since 2016, while achieving marks of post-secondary success, such as higher education degrees and military careers.

The state education board voted 7-3 on Tuesday to change assessment cut scores in the 2025-2026 school year, broadening the scoring range and shrinking the tests. Board members Michelle Dombrosky, Connie OBrien and Debby Potter voted against resetting the scores.

In partnership with the University of Kansas and with input from nearly 150 educators, the Kansas State Department of Education crafted new metrics for the assessment tests students periodically take in English language arts, math and science throughout their school careers.

Cut scores divide performance levels, reflecting student achievement.

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Following the boards vote, cut scores are undergoing an expansion. Previously, the scoring scale ranged from 220-380, with cutoffs varying by grade, level and subject.

Now, the lowest obtainable score is 400 across all grades and subjects, and the highest is 700. Level two cuts off at 510, and the level three cutoff is 540 for all grades and subjects. The level four cutoff varies by grade and subject.

In May, the board approved new performance definitions for each level. Previously, scores fell into the following levels: limited, basic, effective and excellent. Now, limited and basic remain for levels one and two, but effective was changed to proficient and excellent to advanced.

Beth Fultz, director of career standards and assessment services for the education department, addressed the board before its vote. She said it was an opportunity to impact Kansas education for several years to come.

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Beryl New, a board member from Topeka, said she has heard from constituents who are concerned the state education department is lowering standards.

Fultz responded that the change is more of a realignment of expectations for student performance.

I do believe we are not reducing the rigor on this assessment, Fultz said.

The state education commissioner, Randy Watson, said the department brought to the table a scientifically based process thats nationally recognized, and came from the voices of teachers. He assured the board that the new scores still set the highest expectations for Kansas kids.

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Deedy, who spoke during the boards public forum section at the beginning of the meeting, said the old cut scores overshot a desire to be aspirational.

Adjusting cut scores is not lowering our standards, Deedy said, but rather improving the predictability and reliability of this point-in-time assessment to more accurately reflect student achievement levels.

Danny Zeck, a board member from Leavenworth, said he struggles with assessments. He said he was once what he called a level one kid.

Zeck, following a long pause, said: The problem I have with level one, two, three and four is that level one person wakes up sometime and theyre gonna be successful.

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Everybody reacts differently, he said.

He also encouraged parents, if they do not agree with the new cut scores, to exempt their students from participating in assessments.

Cmon, people, he said. If you really dislike it, opt them out. Its not a rocket science deal.
Senior White House adviser Kari Lake, the election-denying MAGA devotee dismantling Voice of America, is leading a push to boot her own staff from the country.

Lake is hellbent on expelling international journalists who had worked for VOA before she fired them in this years mass layoffs.

Their time here is up. And I said before, if I have to go to the airport with them, and accompany them to the airport and get them on the flight, I will do that, Lake told Eric Bolling of the right-wing network Real Americas Voice.

Republican Kari Lake lost both the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial race and the 2024 U.S. Senate race in Arizona. / Mario Tama/Getty Images

For decades, the U.S.s international broadcasting service had recruited journalists from around the world to deliver news from an American perspective in more than 50 languages.

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Many arrived in the U.S. on J-1 visas, which required them to stay employed by the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), the entity overseeing VOA, or leave the country within 30 days.

That countdown began immediately upon their terminations, beginning with the first wave of layoffs in March, The Atlantic reported. Yet, some reporters are at risk of persecution or imprisonment if they are sent back to their home nations after working for the U.S. government, according to the outlet.

President Donald Trump endorsed both of Lake's failed campaigns and has ordered VOA's dismantling. In a Truth Social post, he called VOA a TOTAL, LEFTWING DISASTER and ordered Republicans to KILL IT! / Mario Tama/Getty Images

But Lake, who argues that the visa program should have never started to begin with, is laughing in their faces.

During the interview on Real Americas Voice, Bolling suggested that the VOA journalists might be encouraged to leave if they were sent to Alligator Alcatraz, Floridas new migrant detention center.

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Lake, a former journalist herself, chuckled and said, Well, if you overstay your visa, ICE is going to find you. And they will find you in this case as well.

Using an imperfect metaphor, she quipped, Americas not a hostel, you dont get to come here and stay for ever.

The twice-defeated candidate for statewide office in Arizona appears to have finally found her calling; presiding over VOAs demise.

After President Donald Trump signed the broadcasters death warrant in a March executive order, Lake ordered mass layoffs for hundreds of VOA employees and slashed global programming, that, since World War II, had delivered news to countries under autocratic regimes.

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She has denounced VOA as rotten to the core and anti-American though journalists warn that killing its broadcasts hands adversaries such as Russia, China, and Iran more room to spread anti-American propaganda.

Lake says she's worried that VOA journalists who worked to counter American adversaries' propaganda will become a national security risk. / Rebecca Noble/Getty Images

And while anti-immigrant rhetoric is a staple of the Trump administration, Lake has gone further in her crusade against her former employees, painting J-1 visa holders as spies.

Many of them [are] from nations that are hostile to America, she told Bolling. These are from countries that are adversarial to the United States of America. You have to worry that they will become a national security risk.

However, former VOA director Chase Untermeyer, who served under President George H. W. Bush, told The Atlantic, In many ways, theyre exactly the people you want.

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He called the firing and expelling of the multilingual journalists who were working to counter propaganda from autocracies as extraordinarily short-sighted.

In the wake of their terminations, some international VOA employeesonce on a path to green cards and citizenshiphave left the country, while others are applying for asylum.

The Committee to Protect Journalists told The Atlantic in a statement, Protecting these journalists from the risk of deportation is a moral obligation and demonstrates a commitment to democratic values and a free press.

The Daily Beast has reached out to USAGM for comment.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  KARK 4 News Caroline Derby sat down with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for an exclusive interview on Tuesday.

McMahon and Sanders noted that education should be left up to the states, and by changing the way the Department of Education operates, more money will be in the hands of states to do what they feel is best for their people.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Gov. Sanders visit central Arkansas schools

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We know that a one-size-fits-all education system doesnt work, Sanders said. What they need in California and New York is going to be really different than what the students here in Arkansas need.

For instance, there are some grants that could be coming to states that have more flexibility than ever before, McMahon added. Governors have the opportunity to say, I think I could use this money better somewhere else, can I submit a waiver relative to those grants?

Trump nominates WWE co-founder Linda McMahon to lead Department of Education

McMahons Arkansas visit is part of the departments Returning Education to the States tour. The tour featured state-by-state stops for McMahon to hear from students, teachers and school leaders about education models and reforms.

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The full interview can be viewed in the video player above.

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KANSAS CITY, Kan.  One Kansas City metro nonprofit is taking a unique approach to curbing gun violence.

MOCSAs new billboard campaign focuses on teenagers, but speaks to adults, challenging them to be better role models.

Police identify man killed in North Kansas City shooting, crash on Highway 210

The campaigns first billboard, which is positioned at North 17th Street and State Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas, is a multicolored facade, featuring the slogan, Its time to step up.

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I dont want anyone else to go through what Ive had to go through, Joey Alaniz, a Sumner Academy sophomore who helped design the billboard, said on Tuesday.

Alaniz said he hopes no one else experiences gun violence the way his family has, since three of his loved ones have been shooting victims over the years.

MOCSA, the metros violence prevention nonprofit, worked with teenagers in KCK for two years to craft these visual messages.

The adults, at the end of the day, are the ones who can make the changes. The adults are the lawmakers. The adults are the ones who can get it out there. Theyre the people who can take this and make it mainstream, Alaniz said.

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Maddie Ramone, who works with MOCSAs Kansas Prevention Team, cites a recent health assessment from the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, which identified a need for a different approach to curbing teen violence.

Ramone said she realizes targeting adults to communicate with teenagers is an unusual marketing method, but the intention is to focus on positive practices instead of scare tactics used by past campaigns.

Focusing on the positive is more motivational and more positive. It shows that theres a better way, and people are already doing it, Ramone said.

South Plaza residents report series of car break-ins in recent weeks

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KCK is only the start. This anti-violence campaign will also take this image to schools in other parts of Wyandotte County, like Edwardsville and Bonner Springs.

Heres a link to MOCSAs website, where more information about all of that groups programs is available.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  The Kentucky Department of Education is breaking down the findings of an over 500-page report delivered by Auditor Allison Ball last month.

There were some recommendations we just didnt agree with, and there were many that we do. And were looking at this as an opportunity to grow, Kentucky Education Commissioner Dr. Robbie Fletcher said at the Aug. 6 meeting of the Kentucky Board of Education.

The 174 total recommendations were assembled in the specialized audit, which not only looked at KDEs finances but also overall operating efficiency. It was ordered in 2024 under the bipartisan-backed House Bill 825.

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One of the things I urge you to do is to read the report itself. The tenor of the report was extremely supportive. It was, I believe, in keeping with the expectations of the General Assembly when they mandated the report. And we found it to be extremely helpful on lots of fronts, KBE vice chair Lu Young said.

Fletcher said KDE received the most recommendations in the areas that touch department operations and special education. Some recommendations, like a reorganized website and establishing a new chief of staff position, are things Fletcher believes will need to be done with the help of more funding from the General Assembly. But the board pushed back on the audits criticisms of how the department oversees special ed.

A lot of those were, once again, the information the individuals didnt know that was conflicted to federal regulations. So I dont want anybody leaving here thinking our special education department is not doing its job and doing it very well, board member Randy Poe said.

Among its largest findings, the audit claims KDE allowed $250 million in SEEK money to lapse back into the states general fund unspent. KDE argued that the budget bill language prevented the department from using it anywhere else.

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We would love for the Legislative General Assembly to put language into that. If theres any excess funding that we could get back into transportation, or you know, something to fulfill that, Fletcher said.

The full audit can be read here.

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Monday that his office has reached a legal agreement with WK Kellogg Co. requiring the company to remove petroleum-based artificial dyes from its cereals by the end of 2027.

The Assurance of Voluntary Compliance (AVC), signed by both parties, is believed  according to Paxtons office  to be the first legally binding commitment by a major U.S. food manufacturer to eliminate synthetic colorings. Other food companies have made verbal pledges to remove dyes, but Kelloggs is the first to sign an enforceable agreement.

Following months of investigating and negotiating, I am proud to officially say Kelloggs will stop putting these unhealthy ingredients in its cereals, Paxton said in a press release.

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The signed AVC demonstrates that Kelloggs is committed to keeping this pledge, and I commend the company for doing the right thing.

Paxtons office launched an investigation after the company previously announced plans to remove petroleum-based food colorings in the United States, but continued using dyes such as blue, red, and yellow in certain products. Kelloggs has already removed these ingredients in Canada and Europe.

Kelloggs has said more than 85% of its U.S. cereal sales no longer contain artificial colors and that it is continuing to develop naturally colored alternatives. The company noted that consumer preferences vary by market, with natural-color versions performing better in Canada than in the United States.

As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Paxton issued a Civil Investigative Demand to Kelloggs in February 2025 and publicly announced the probe in April.

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The agreement requires Kelloggs to fully remove the dyes from all cereal products sold in the United States by December 31, 2027.

Paxton encouraged other manufacturers to sign similar agreements to demonstrate their commitment to helping Americans live healthier lives.
Editors note: This story contains profanity.

AUSTIN (The Texas Tribune)  Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday asked a Tarrant County judge to jail former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke, in another escalation in Republicans broader effort to put an end to Texas Democrats walkout over a new congressional map.

Paxton sued ORourke and his political group, Powered by People, last week, arguing that the group was deceptively fundraising for and illegally supporting Texas Democrats walkout. Tarrant County District Judge Megan Fahey quickly granted Paxtons request to temporarily block ORourke and Powered by People from fundraising for Democrats or spending money to cover their expenses.

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On Tuesday, Paxton claimed that ORourke had violated that temporary injunction at a Fort Worth rally Saturday, when he told the crowd, There are no refs in this game, fuck the rules.

According to a video of the event, ORourke appeared to say that phrase after urging the crowd to support retaliatory redistricting in other blue states  not in relation to the injunction.

Paxtons motion also cited social media posts by ORourke after the injunction came down, in which the Democrat said he was still raising and rallying to stop the steal of 5 congressional seats in Texas, and included a donation link.

The attorney general said ORourke repeatedly solicited donations at the Fort Worth rally by urging the crowd to text FIGHT to a number that would automatically respond with a link to a donation platform.

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Paxtons motion asks the judge to imprison ORourke for the duration of the lawsuit, and to fine the Democrat $500 for each violation of the injunction.

In an initial response, ORourkes attorneys filed a notice to the court arguing that Paxton was knowingly taking a statement entirely out of context to intentionally misrepresent the statement to this Court. They also argued that Paxtons motion misrepresents the temporary injunction, which barred ORourke and his group from fundraising for non-political purposes  not fundraising altogether. And they said that they would move to sanction Paxtons office for violating professional and ethical standards.

Paxtons lawsuit against ORourke and his group is part of an aggressive effort by Republican state leaders to break the impasse caused by Democrats exodus. Gov. Greg Abbott and Paxton have asked the all-Republican Texas Supreme Court to expel House Democrats, and Paxton, along with House Speaker Dustin Burrows, are turning to GOP-friendly Illinois courts to try to extradite the lawmakers taking refuge there.

Democrats left the state en masse last week, leaving the House without the minimum number of members to conduct business, to stall adoption of a new congressional map designed to give the GOP five additional seats in the U.S. House in next years midterm election.

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Powered by People has been a top funder covering the costs of Democrats decampment, the expenses for which are mounting quickly. Democrats are on the hook for lodging, meals, travel and the $500-per-day fines accrued each day of the session they miss. They will also be responsible for thousands of dollars spent trying to compel their attendance, Burrows said Tuesday. He previously said they would not be able to receive their paycheck except in person, and that their office budgets would be slashed until they return.

ORourke filed his own lawsuit against Paxton Friday in El Paso district court, alleging that the attorney general was engaging in a fishing expedition, constitutional rights be damned, and asking the judge to block Paxtons investigation into the organizations practices.

Paxton is trying to shut down Powered by People, one of the largest voter registration organizations in the country, because our volunteers fight for voting rights and free elections, the kind of work that threatens the hold that Paxton, [President Donald] Trump and Abbott have on power in Texas, ORourke said in a statement responding to Fridays injunction.

A spokesperson for ORourke did not immediately return a request for comment.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  Auditor Allison Ball is demanding answers regarding the whistleblower lawsuit reporting drivers licensing fraud.

Im troubled by the reports of an alleged black market within the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet that allows illegal noncitizens to pay cash to bypass not only Kentucky law but also the law-abiding citizens waiting for long periods of time to obtain their drivers licenses the legal way, Auditor Ball said. Today, I am requesting a formal explanation from the governor and the transportation secretary about their plan to address these reports. Kentuckians deserve to have confidence that their tax dollars are funding a government accountable to the people that serves them fairly and lawfully.

RELATED | Kentucky lawmakers demand probe into reported drivers license fraud scheme

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According to court documents obtained by FOX 56, Melissa Moorman worked at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Department of Vehicle Regulation from October 2022 until her wrongful termination in January 2025. She found that employees were using her login credentials to sell Kentucky drivers licenses under the table, oftentimes to non-residents and non-citizens.

After reporting the incident, Moorman said she was punished for doing the right thing and wants her job reinstated. She recently sat down for an interview with the Louisville FOX affiliate, WDRB, bringing the situation to the attention of multiple Kentucky lawmakers demanding a complete and thorough investigation.

FOX 56 wrote to Balls office on Tuesday, Aug. 12, the auditor said they were actively reviewing the situation. Now in a Wednesday letter, shes demanding answers from Gov. Andy Beshear and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray.

This appears to be the latest information relating to an ongoing criminal investigation that began around eight months ago and about which the public has yet to hear any updates. In fact, when the public has sought information and answers about these irregularities, the cabinet has refused to turn over any of the approximately 2,300 records connected to this topic. On top of all of that, Kentuckians who are actually legally eligible to receive drivers licenses are still waiting in line to lawfully obtain them, Ball said.

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The most concerning aspect, to Senate Transportation Chair Jimmy Higdon, is that Kentuckians have expressed their frustrations with wait times and appointments at Kentuckys drivers licensing branches, and non-residents have allegedly been receiving prioritized services.

Kentuckians have been vocal about their frustrations with drivers license services and appointments. To now learn that illegal residents may have been fraudulently provided licenses and IDs, documents that could enable participation in our elections, is simply unacceptable. Its an affront to good governance, he wrote.

If these reports prove true, this is very concerning, as it will mean not only that licenses are being issued illegally, but also that these contraband licenses are issued in a manner faster and more efficiently than those provided to legal citizens who are following the rules, waiting their turn, and doing everything asked of them under the law. In consideration of these many concerning reports, pursuant to my authority as Kentuckys Auditor of Public Accounts, I am writing to formally request an explanation of your action plan to address all of these serious matters, Ball affirmed.

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In turn, Ball demands that she receive an explanation by Sept. 1.

Gov. Andy Beshear was asked about the lawsuit during Wednesdays Team Kentucky Update. He read a prepared statement on the matter.

Ensuring the integrity of state-issued identification is a high priority. And any irregularities are taken seriously and investigated. So the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet regularly reviews credential applications, and during one of their reviews, they identified a number of irregularities, and they have revoked 1,985 credentials. To our knowledge, all employees involved have been hired through a temp agency and have been terminated. KYTC immediately contacted law enforcement, who are engaged in a criminal investigation, and it includes multiple offices that are both state and federal. The revoked credentials, if used, would not work at an airport and would be flagged if pulled over at a traffic stop. We are committed to getting all of the facts and to holding anybody who violated the law accountable. Gov. Andy Beshear

Click here for more on the lawsuit and investigation.

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Kentuckys biggest Powerball winner accused of attacking deputy at Florida hotel

A multimillion-dollar jackpot winner was caught on camera getting into an altercation with Pinellas County deputies at the Tradewinds Hotel in Saint Pete Beach.

Deputies say James Farthing, 50, got into a dispute with a guest at the hotel. After deputies arrived to manage the situation, Farthing reportedly kicked one of them and tried to run away, but was tackled by law enforcement.

Farthing is now facing charges that include resisting an officer with violence and battery on a law enforcement officer.

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In April, Farthing won the largest Powerball jackpot in Kentucky history of $167.3 million.

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Louisville-based moving company has been barred from conducting business in Kentucky following a court order from the attorney general.

Attorney General Russell Coleman announced a lawsuit on Tuesday, Aug. 12, that accuses Margarets Movers, owned and operated by Margaret and Arthur Stormy Weathers, of stealing from its customers.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

The attorney generals office has reportedly received multiple complaints from customers reporting items that were never returned, damaged, stolen, or werent disclosed that they were being stored.

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Some of the losses cost customers hundreds of thousands of dollars and ranged from jewelry to irreplaceable childhood memorabilia. One customer described their loss as the equivalent to a fire.

Moving is always stressful, and the Kentuckians who entrusted their precious belongings to this company have been repeatedly let down. When a company takes advantage of their customers and then refuses to work with our office to make them whole, well hold them accountable in court, Coleman said.

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The company also hasnt obtained state-required certifications since 2015, per the attorney generals office, but has continued to provide moving services anyhow.

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Coleman also secured a temporary restraining order, prohibiting Margarets Movers from moving any property within the Commonwealth, demanding payment from any customers, disposing of or relocating consumers property, disposing of any documents or evidence, or conducting any new business in Kentucky.

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U.S. Rep. James Comer, left, speaks to reporters during a press conference with Attorney General Russell Coleman. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley)

SHEPHERDSVILLE  Kentucky Republican U.S. Rep. James Comer said that while he supports President Donald Trumps crime-fighting moves in Washington, D.C., he hopes similar efforts will not be replicated in Kentucky.

Trump mobilized National Guard troops and asserted control of police in the nations capital on Monday under what he declared a crime emergency. He also warned he may pursue similar action in other Democratic-led cities.

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Comer, Kentuckys 1st Congressional District representative, said Wednesday afternoon that the presidents federalization of the Washington, D.C. police force shows that the president, as well as Congress, is serious about cracking down on the crime crisis. The congressman spoke to reporters with Republican Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman following a roundtable with law enforcement officials from across the state.

Comer, who is the House Oversight chair, said the committee will have a hearing with Washington, D.C., officials in September.

Were going to be talking about how we can solve this problem. We dont want Washington D.C. to have a National Guard presence very long. But what we see in Washington D.C., Ive learned today, were seeing in places like Louisville and other places, Comer said.

Comer said his discussion with Kentucky police suggests there has been a huge increase in juvenile criminal activity. He later added that he would share the information gleaned in Wednesdays roundtable with Trump.

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Comer said that in general juvenile offenders arent being prosecuted for crimes for various reasons, leading to an increase in adult criminals encouraging young people to commit crimes.

In January, violent crime in Washington, D.C., hit a 30 year low.

We have this crime crisis thats overwhelmingly in the larger cities in the United States, but at the core of this is ensuring that we back these guys on the front line here, Comer said, referring to the law enforcement officials present. Part of that includes ensuring adequate funding for police, he added.

When asked if Trump should replicate his move in D.C. in Kentucky, Comer said hopefully not and said that Louisville is a different deal.

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I think weve got a great (Louisville) Metro Council, and I think weve got a mayor (Craig Greenberg) thats serious about cracking down on crime, Comer said. Many times its the attitude of the prosecutors and the judges. People have to be held accountable for crimes that are being committed in Washington, D.C.

Comers committee has legislative jurisdiction over the District of Columbia ., so he said he often works closely with local officials there. He said a liberal metro D.C. Council and prosecutors and judges that are just so lenient have led to criminal justice reform so far to the extreme that the criminals  theyre never held accountable in Washington, D.C.

I dont want to see whats happening in Washington replicated to other cities, but if these other cities dont get serious about it, then it probably will be, and the presidents said that, Comer said.

Coleman called Comer one of the most influential Kentuckians who walked the halls in Washington, D.C. while introducing him. Coleman also said that Comer has the ear of Trump and leads the House Oversight Committee both very significant positions to help us address the problems that were talked about around this table.

Gov. Andy Beshear speaks to reporters before the Forward Together Dinner in Owensboro. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley)

Earlier this month, some Kentucky Republicans called on Comer to consider running for governor in 2027. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, serving his second term, will be term-limited.

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Beshear, who is seen as a possible presidential candidate in 2028, addressed Trumps deployment of the National Guard in Washington during his weekly press conference Wednesday afternoon.

The Guard is not trained for everyday law enforcement activity. The Guard is trained for logistical support, responding to natural disasters, assisting and helping active military, Beshear said. To put our Guard  who, remember, are our neighbors  in places and spaces that they are not trained for, puts an American with a family in a potentially dangerous situation.

When Trump mobilized California National Guard troops in response to protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents activity in Los Angeles earlier this summer, Beshear said at the time that violence is never acceptable but a chain of command should be respected. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had objected to Trumps action.

My hope is that going forward, this will not be a tactic that the president continues to use because the very people he is calling in to do different jobs may be put in harms way, Beshear said Wednesday.
Sir Sadiq Khans plans for thousands of affordable homes in London have been plunged into crisis after figures showed just a few hundred new properties got off the ground last quarter.

On Tuesday, new figures from the Greater London Authority showed 347 affordable homes had started construction between April and June this year  significantly below the number that the Mayor of London needs to meet his ambitious housebuilding targets.

Sir Sadiq is aiming to build up to 19,000 affordable homes by March 2026. He is facing a significant shortfall if the pace of new building starts recorded in April to June continues.

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Lord Bailey, the housing spokesman for the City Hall Conservatives, said the Mayor was clearly failing.

Londons housing crisis becomes more severe with every passing day, putting an increasing burden on Londoners and London councils with rising rents and mortgages, he said.

Struggling Londoners need the Government to succeed in tackling this issue but Khan is clearly failing, and we all pay the price. How will he ever meet his own targets, let alone the targets his own Government has set him? Hes the weakest link in this chain.

Of the 19,000 affordable homes targeted, work has begun on just 5,500  leaving the scheme 13,500 homes short.

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The latest figures are a further embarrassment after Angela Rayners Ministry of Housing recently cut the target by 22pc to between 17,800 and 19,000 homes.

Around 12,300 homes need to be started within the next nine months if he is to hit his minimum objective.

The Mayor of Londons office has blamed the previous Conservative governments horrendous legacy for making it harder and more expensive to build homes.

A spokesman for the Mayor said: Sadiq has made tackling this crisis a priority since he took office, and despite these challenges the highest number of affordable homes for social rent in a decade were completed last year.

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The Mayor is taking the hard decisions to improve housing supply of all tenures.

He is actively exploring releasing parts of Londons green belt for development and is working closely with the Government to resolve issues like delays from the Building Safety Regulator.

Stalling housing market

The figures come amid wider concerns that Britains housing market is stalling, driven by fears that Rachel Reeves will raise taxes this autumn.

Matt Pullen, the chief executive of building materials supplier Marshalls, said speculation around the Budget is creating uncertainty in the industry and weighing on individuals ... and business confidence.

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He pointed to growing reluctance from homeowners to spend their savings on renovation projects, as well as a lack of confidence among first-time buyers and employers.

Housebuilder Bellway also called for more focus on stimulating demand with greater support for first-time buyers.

It has reported a 14pc uplift in home completions during the year ending July 2025.

However, it flagged softer trading conditions as a result of demand-side constraints for first-time buyers and delays to planning decisions while local authorities adapt to the Governments planning reforms.

The Prime Minister has vowed that the autumn Budget will focus on improving living standards.

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However, Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, face warnings that they could be forced to increase taxes by as much as 50bn to plug a gap in the public coffers.

A government spokesman said: We are delivering the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, and our landmark planning reforms will help to drive UK housebuilding to its highest level in over 40 years while growing the economy by 6.8bn.

Thanks to measures taken at the Budget, there will also be an additional 130,000 transactions over the next five years by first-time buyers and others buying a primary residence.

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  The Bakersfield Police Department and Kern High School District officials are investigating a non-credible threat made to Frontier High School on Wednesday.

In a message sent to parents, officials with the school said there were additional officers on campus before school investigating a social media threat that was found with online surveillance in Sacramento.

Officials said the student was escorted to the Deans Office for questioning.

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BPD told 17 News the case is still under investigation, but no credible threat was found.

17 News has contacted the school district for more information.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  A fire in downtown Salt Lake City destroyed five buildings and caused almost $5 million in damages. Some of the business owners say they hope to rebuild.

On Monday night, a fire broke out in the London Belle restaurant in downtown Salt Lake City. It quickly spread to and damaged several other businesses, including the Whiskey Street bar, White Horse Bar, and the Los Tapatios Grill. Firefighter crews estimate that the fire caused over $5 million in damages.

Additionally, these buildings are historical. According to a collection of Salt Lake business owners known as the Downtown Alliance, the buildings date back to 1920 and have been culturally significant to the community for decades.

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PREVIOUSLY: Downtown Salt Lake City fire causes $5M in damages, 3 firefighters injured

London Belle and Whiskey Street were both destroyed in the SLC downtown fire on August 11, 2025 (Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX) Multiple businesses were destroyed in the SLC downtown fire on August 11, 2025 (Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX) Multiple businesses were destroyed in the SLC downtown fire on August 11, 2025 (Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX)

The property owners of two of the bars released a statement that says, Whiskey Street & White Horse are part of the lifeblood of downtown Salt Lake City. These historic buildings mean so much to us and even more to the city. We are completely devastated for our partners, their staff, and the entire community.

While there were no fatalities in the fire, over 200 individuals have lost their jobs. The Downtown Alliance has launched an employee assistance fund to help those individuals cover their rent, grocery, and transportation expenses.

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Additionally, Mayor Erin Mendenhall is encouraging residents to visit the surrounding businesses that were affected by the fire and smoke, many of which have reopened.

London Belle Supper Club

The fire apparently started at the London Belle Supper Club, according to Salt Lake City Fire Department. While the restaurant was successfully evacuated, the building experienced significant damage. The London Belle released a statement on Facebook:

We want to thank everyone for showing us so much love and support, were always in awe of how amazing our SLC community is. Your kindness has meant the world to us since the day we opened and especially now! We will be closed while we recover.

The statement further read, Our hearts go out to all of our incredible neighbors that were impacted, and all of the families, owners, and staff. Thank you, Salt Lake, for all of your love. We hope to see you all for another round in the future.

Los Tapatios Grill

Los Tapatios Grills Salt Lake City location was also destroyed in the fire. On their Facebook, they said, Were incredibly grateful that everyone is safe. Now, we come together as a community to rebuild and support one another.

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Their other locations remain open for business. While our doors are closed, you can still visit us at North Temple and Taylorsville. We thank all of you for the love and support. This Block is strong!

Whiskey Street and White Horse

Jason Lecates owns both Whiskey Street and White Horse and he says the fire damage has been difficult to comprehend, Its a kick in the gut. Its really hard to digest. A business youve built with your bare hands, to have it grow to such a successful, iconic part of Salt Lake City; to have not only one business destroyed but two in one night is pretty hard to swallow.

Whiskey Street was home to one of the worlds largest whiskey collections, with thousands and thousands of whiskey bottles, according to Jason Lecates.

Despite the loss, it appears the community is committed to rebuilding the lost businesses. The property owners said, We are committed to rebuilding and restoring these properties so our beloved local establishments, Whiskey Street & White Horse, can serve Salt Lake City for years to come.

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Lecates also said he intends to rebuild his businesses when it is possible, The building itself may have to be demolished. We dont know that, so hopefully not. Our plan is to rebuild and if its feasible, well get the ball rolling and reopen as soon as we can.

While Lecates is currently focusing on the 150 employees who worked at Whiskey Street and White Horse, he hopes that they can reopen in about a year. He also says he is inspired by an American Flag that survived the fire.

An American Flag that survived the fire at the Whiskey Street Bar in downtown SLC (Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX)

It survived and it was really kind of special. The Firefighters pulled it out, folded it and gave it to us, Lecates said, Hopefully, itll give us some inspiration to hang it up soon.

Latest headlines:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Aug. 12Teagen Flint is captivated by the science of raising pigs. She's looked at what traits make a good show pig and compared the costs of the pigs she's shown for the last eight years at the Northwest Montana Fair.

Flint, 16, along with her fellow competitors, was in the show ring on Monday at the Trade Center at the Flathead County Fairgrounds as the livestock competitions began for the week.

"It teaches you a lot of skills for the future," Flint said while standing near her pig, Paisley. "You have to buy feed. Be smart about money. If you go on vacation, you have to find someone to cover the chores for you. It teaches you a lot."

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It was standing room only, as fairgoers gathered to watch the showmanship competition, with dozens of competitors lining up with their pigs waiting their turn to enter the ring.

As the Class 1 Senior Showman entered the ring for the first showing of the day, Flint walked around the ring, making eye contact with the judge and using a pig whip to direct Paisley in the right direction. Flint gained the attention of the judge immediately.

Back inside one of the pens, Flint was showing off another pig, Ranger, a sow with piglets who were just over a week old. A senior at Flathead High School, Flint hopes to study biology and genetics after graduating.

"There is a lot of value here," said Karly Hanson, the judge of the showmanship competition, who herself showed sheep for 10 years at the Northwest Montana Fair. "It's a way to encourage kids to look beyond the show ring and into the industry."

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Most kids, when asked about their pigs, share a similar sentiment: it's incredible to watch the animal grow up and develop a personality.

Standing in a pen early Monday morning, Madisyn Mackin, 11, was feeding her pig Delilah a favorite snack of marshmallows. Mackin, a student at Helena Flats School, was also giving her pig a favorite spa treatment by cleaning its ears.

"We had a spare pig too, and she spent time raising the both of them," Mackin's father, Jordan Mackin, said. "It's a lot of dedication."

And at the end of the day, it's fun, Madisyn Mackin said.

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Marty Fritz, a classmate of Mackin's, was in the pen next to her with his pig, Mighty Mouse. When the gray pig was younger, he looked like a mouse, Fritz said, thus inspiring his name. For him, the best part of raising a pig has also been watching the personality develop.

Mighty Mouse, like Delilah, also loves marshmallows.

"Seeing him get used to animals, appreciate animals and care for animals... well it's something you can't get from an iPad or anything else," Fritz's father Chris said, watching Fritz brush Mighty Mouse.

Nearby, a plump orange and brown pig named Pumpkin was taking a nap while its owner, Jett Bartholomew, 12, stood by before the start of the first group.

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"She's so lazy, it's cute. She's a really good walker too. She's the calmest pig I've had," Bartholomew said. This is his fourth year showing pigs.

He hopes he gets a good ribbon, he said with a smile, like most who compete.

But showmanship is more than a buckle, a ribbon or a check, judge Hanson said. It's about the value of hard work and the camaraderie of agriculture.

"[With each show], I learned the value of hard work, what it means to stand with integrity, how to accept evaluation with humility and the blood, sweat and tears that go into these projects," Hanson said.

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Reporter Kate Heston may be reached at 758-4459 or kheston@dailyinterlake.com.

Competitors work with their pigs during the swine showmanship competition Aug. 11 inside the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Teagen Flint looks for the judge while guiding her pig during the swine showmanship competition Aug. 11 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Louis Boucher shows his pig during the swine showmanship competition Aug. 11 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

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Brooke Lynch directs her pig Murphy during the swine showmanship competition Aug. 11 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Competitors work with their pigs during the swine showmanship competition Aug. 11 inside the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Kirtland Air Force Base, which is the fifth largest base in the United States Air Force, said it had an economic impact of $7.5 billion in the Albuquerque metro in fiscal year 2024, in all, supporting 12% of the regional economy and 12.2% of the citys total workforce, the base announced Wednesday.

What goes on at Kirtland Air Force Base?

The total economic impact includes the salaries of more than 22,000 military and civilian employees, benefits for more than 70,000 employees, family members, veterans and retirees, and $1.079 billion in contracts awarded to small businesses, according to a news release from the base.

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The bases economic impact jumped up from $4.88 billion in fiscal year 2022, reports show.

Kirtlands mission is national defense, but our heart is here in New Mexico, Col. Justin Secrest, 377th Air Base Wing and Installation commander, said in the news release. Every job created, every contract awarded, and every dollar spent reflects our commitment to being a good neighbor and a pillar of economic strength in Albuquerque.

Six year study on Spaceport Americas economic impact on New Mexico released

KAFB said it contributed an estimated $2.1 billion to the local workforce, creating 56,687 jobs across Albuquerque through employment, household spending, and indirect employment.

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One key economic contribution the base highlighted was its investment into small businesses by awarding $1.079 billion to small businesses in Fiscal Year 2024.

Small businesses are the backbone of our supply chain and our community, said James O-Quinn, 377th Mission Support Group Director of Contracting. By investing in local and diverse suppliers, we expand our capabilities while helping these companies grow and thrive.

Small business partnerships helped the base with construction, logistics, IT, and advanced technology.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
As summer winds down, COVID cases are climbing across much of the country. In its latest report, the Centers for Disease Control says infections are up in at least 45 states, with the highly contagious Nimbus and Stratus variants driving most of the increase.

Public health experts say a summer surge isnt unusual, but this one is arriving just as families prepare for the back-to-school season, when crowded classrooms and indoor activities could help the virus spread even faster.

Heres a closer look at the variants behind the surge and the places seeing the highest Covid rates.

What is the Stratus variant?

Like the other recent strains, Stratus is a subvariant of Omicron.

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Though it was first detected in Canada in January, the variant now accounts for 14 percent of cases in the U.S., and is the third-highest among all variants stateside, according to the CDC.

One symptom that stands out with Stratus infections is hoarseness. Patients have also reported dry coughs and sore throats, along with more familiar Covid symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.

What about the NB.1.8.1 or Nimbus variant?

First detected in January 2025, the NB.1.8.1 variant  nicknamed Nimbus  remains the dominant COVID-19 strain in the U.S., accounting for about 43 percent of cases as of mid-August, according to CDC data.

An Omicron descendant, it has spread across multiple continents, aided by its high transmissibility and slight ability to evade immunity. Although not linked to more severe illness, doctors note a signature symptom: an intensely painful sore throat, along with common Covid signs such as fever, cough, and fatigue. The World Health Organization and other health agencies are tracking Nimbus as a Variant Under Monitoring.

Where Covid cases are growing

States reporting the highest Covid positivity rates include:

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New Mexico (12 percent)

Texas (12 percent)

Oklahoma (12 percent)

Arkansas (12 percent)

Louisiana (12 percent)

Nevada (11.3 percent)

Arizona (11.3 percent)

California (11.3 percent)

Alaska (11.1 percent)

Washington (11.1 percent)

Oregon (11.1 percent)

Idaho (11.1 percent)

Are the latest Covid variants more contagious?

Both NB.1.8.1 and Stratus appear to spread more easily than earlier variants, with Stratus showing a stronger ability to transmit in both lab studies and real-world settings.

I know that everybody wants to forget about this disease, but its not going to allow us to, Janko Nikolich, MD, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Immunobiology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, told ABC Action News in June.

Still, neither variant has been linked to more severe illness. According to the World Health Organization, current data does not indicate that they cause more serious disease than previous strains.

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The uptick in cases may also be seasonal. Covid infections often rise in the summer  and this year appears to be following that trend, particularly in countries like China.

Do the current Covid vaccines protect against these variants?

The WHO says current Covid vaccines should still offer protection against both the NB.1.8.1 and Stratus variants. But theres a catch: getting a booster might not be as easy as before.

The FDA has limited updated boosters to people 65 and older and those with certain health conditions. In May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also announced that routine Covid vaccine recommendations would be dropped for healthy children and pregnant women, even though pregnancy remains a high-risk factor for severe complications.

Still, the CDC hasnt ruled out vaccination for these groups entirely. Instead, it now encourages shared clinical decision-making  meaning shots are still available if individuals (or parents) choose to get them in consultation with a healthcare provider.

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Beyond vaccination, basic precautions still matter: Wash your hands regularly, cover your coughs and sneezes, and consider bringing back your N95s in crowded indoor spaces. A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping yourself  and your community  safer.

The post What to Know About the Stratus Covid Variant Thats Spreading Right Now appeared first on Katie Couric Media.
A historic summit is set to be held between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

Though specifics on the summit like the time and exact location remain unknown, all eyes will be on the talks as world leaders wait to see what, if anything, can be accomplished in Putins first trip to the U.S. in a decade.

Heres what we know:

U.S. President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Finland, July 16, 2018.

Vladimir Putin To Return To Us For The First Time In A Decade

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White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Tuesday that Trump will travel to Anchorage on Friday morning for what she described as a "listening exercise" with Putin.

Trump, who on Monday described the talks as a "feel-out meeting," has made clear that his chief agenda item will be to determine whether a ceasefire in Ukraine is even possible.

Read On The Fox News App

When pressed by reporters this week as to what he specifically hopes to achieve from the in-person talks with Putin  particularly following seemingly positive calls that only resulted in a "frustrated" Trump and continued Russian bombardment in Ukraine  the president was light on specifics.

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Though he told reporters that he thinks he will know whether a ceasefire deal with Putin is even possible within the first "two minutes."

"I'm not going to make a deal. It's not up to me to make a deal," he said. "I think a deal should be made for both [Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy].

"Id like to see a ceasefire. I'd like to see the best deal that could be made for both parties. You know, it takes two to tango," he added.

Trump Goes After Zelenskyy Over 'Land Swapping' Dispute, Lays Out 'Feel Out Meeting' With Putin

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meet during the NATO Heads of State and Government Summit in The Hague, Netherlands on June 25, 2025.

Trump has raised geopolitical eyebrows over the last week when he suggested there would be a land "swap" that Russia and Ukraine would need to agree to.

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While it remains unclear which borders he thinks will likely be moved around, particularly which Russian borders he foresees Putin handing over to Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his allies in NATO have made clear any deal forged without Ukraine will not be acceptable.

Zelenskyy over the weekend reiterated that he cannot unilaterally agree to cede territory illegally occupied by Russia without a national referendum under Ukraines Constitution.

"Any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace," he added. "They will not bring anything. These are dead decisions. They will never work."

Following a meeting with top EU officials on Monday, chief diplomat for the EU Kaja Kallas told Fox News Digital, "Ukraines right to exist as a sovereign nation is under attack, as well as the security of our European continent."

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"As far as Russia has not agreed to full and unconditional ceasefire, we should not even discuss any concessions," she said. "It has never worked in the past with Russia, and will not work with Putin today.

Trump, who is slated to hold talks with Ukraine and NATO allies on Wednesday, said he will first call Zelenskyy following his talks with Putin, followed by calls to European leaders.

French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni meet during the Group of Seven (G7) Summit at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada on June 17, 2025.

Eu Hits Back At Trump, Zelenskyy Comments, No Concessions In Ukraine Before Putin Ceasefire Agreement

Though geographically speaking, Anchorage is a near equal distance from Moscow and Washington, D.C., the president prompted surprise when he said Putin had agreed to meet him in Alaska rather than a third-party state, like Switzerland or Hungary, both of which were floated as potential meeting locations.

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However, both locations held dubious optics, as Switzerland, a member of the International Criminal Court, could be obligated to act on the 2023 ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin, and Hungary, though frequently seen as sympathetic to Russia, is a NATO member state.

"They probably avoided Europe, because if they included Europe, then Europe would have demanded that they're actually at the table," Dan Hoffman, former CIA Moscow Station Chief, told Fox News Digital. "Probably your two choices were go to Russia  which Trump would never do  or invite him here.

"It also exposes the challenge that you can't solve this without Ukraine and without Europe," he added.

But Alaska also has a shared history with the U.S., which Washington purchased from Saint Petersburg  then the capital of Russia  in 1867.

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Though this shared past was championed by some in Russia and the U.S., like the Kremlins special economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev, who called it the "perfect stage" for the Putin-Trump talks, others took to social media to suggest it showed the precarious nature of sovereign borders.

Anchorage, Alaska is set to receive both President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin for a high-level bilateral meeting on Friday Aug. 15, 2025.

Zelenskyy Tells Putin To 'Be Brave' And Finally Agree To Trilateral Meeting With Trump

Zelenskyy does not appear to have been officially invited to the talks, which the White House on Tuesday confirmed are the result of a direct invitation from Putin.

"The president is agreeing to this meeting at the request of President Putin," Leavitt said Tuesday. "And the goal of this meeting for the president is to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war."

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Zelenskyy is set to hold talks with the U.S. president ahead of the high-level bilateral meeting on Wednesday alongside other European leaders.

Zelenskyy has repeatedly said he is open to meeting with Putin directly to end the war, though Putin has thus far refused.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, hold a telephone conversation with US President Trump on the sidelines of a meeting at the 6th European Political Community summit on May 16, 2025 at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, Albania.

Trump on Monday said his goal is that following his meeting with Putin, the Kremlin chief will sit down with Zelenskyy to begin hashing out terms for a ceasefire  whether or not it includes him in direct negotiations.

"Ultimately, I'm going to put the two of them in a room. I'll be there, or I won't be there," Trump said Monday. "And I think it'll get solved."

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Zelenskyy on Tuesday said he also discussed the possibility of holding high-level talks organized by Turkey, which has hosted previous diplomatic negotiations that have failed to secure any lasting ceasefire agreements, but have released thousands of Ukrainian and Russian prisoners of war (POWs).

"We are ready for any format of meeting aimed at stopping the killings and ending the war," Zelenksyy said. "President Erdogan confirmed his countrys readiness to organize a summit of the leaders of Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and Turkiye."

Experts have warned it is too soon to tell what could come out of the talks with Putin on Friday.





Original article source: What we know about Trumps meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska
Question : I am a concerned citizen and noticed that the First Circuit Public Parking has a new pay system. The machine does not take coins. I use to pay with coins to the person in the booth but now this machine does not take any coins. I parked there Monday and my parking came out to $1.50. I had to pay $2 in cash and lost out 50 cents to the machine because it doesnt give back change. This is a scam. The State of Hawaii should not be scamming us citizens. We already paying higher prices for everything else. Can you please investigate on this matter ?

Answer : Your complaint helped the state Department of Accounting and General Services Automotive Management Division realize that a new automated payment system was set incorrectly on its first day at the South Street Garage, which was Monday, an official said. You were not overcharged, he said. The automated system has been reset to reflect the same parking rates that were in effect on Friday, when a parking attendant handled payments, Michael Arakaki, AMDs administrator, said by telephone Tuesday.

The public parking rate in the structure is $2 an hour for the first two hours, and $2 per half-hour thereafter, he said. The machine should not have charged $1.50, and your complaint, which we shared with DAGS the same day the automated system took effect, helped alert AMD that something was amiss, he said.

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As for your broader complaint, yes, the automated system accepts payments by credit card, debit card or paper money, but not coins. No change is given for cash payments, which is stated on the machines. For public parking, motorists take a parking stub to enter the parking structure, pay at a machine in the buildings first-floor elevator lobby and insert their paid parking stub in the machine at the parking structures exit. A video at shows the process.

This parking structure, at the corner of South and Pohukaina streets, is connected to the Hawaii Judiciarys First Circuit Court, Ka ahumanu Hale, at 777 Punchbowl St. Motorists affected by the new system will include defense lawyers, prosecutors, jurors, witnesses, drivers with a parking placard and the general public, according to a DAGS news release, which explains that there are five different kinds of parking placards or permits for regular users of this garage. Procedures vary by groupjurors parking is validated, for exampleand DAGS has posted videos and other information relevant to each group. Find links at.

Before the automated system, one parking attendant staffed the booth at the entry /exit and one patrolled the garage, the news release said. They are being reassigned to other duties to improve overall safety. Some of the items the officers look for on foot patrols are damages to parking facilities, people loitering in the stairwell, broken ceiling lights and fluid leaks from vehicles. We work to keep it a secure environment,  Arakaki said in the news release.

Diane Ako, a DAGS spokesperson, said she appreciated the reader for flagging the issue and also expressed thanks to the general public for their patience in adapting to the new system.

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DAGS hopes to automate parking payments at all 33 of its parking lots statewide, the news release said.

Mahalo Many thanks to my unknown neighbor in Mililani who found and trapped my old and injured cat in their yard. They were kind enough to call the Hawaiian Humane Society. And many thanks to the gentleman from the Humane Society who tracked us down through my cats microchip and delivered him back to us. He has a shattered back leg, was dehydrated and very skinny and has a long road to recovery. But he is back home with us and on the mend. If it werent for these wonderful people who cared about a hurt stray cat he wouldnt be home with us at all. Thank you to all who helped bring Wally home.Grateful pet owner------------Write to Kokua Line at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 2-200, Honolulu, HI 96813 ; call 808-529-4773 ; or email kokualine @staradvertiser.com.------------
(The Center Square)  Found in gummies, candies and ice cream, a concentrated substance known as 7-OH has been classified as a Schedule 1 substanstance alongside heroin and LSD by Florida Attorney General James Utheimer in an emergency ruling.

The product, 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a naturally occurring substance in the kratom plant that has recently received increased scrutiny from government leadership. Kratom originates from Southeast Asia, has been used in herbal medicines, and is unregulated in America.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration moved to list the product as a Schedule I substance in July.

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Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary praised Utheimer's actions and cited increased prevalence of the kratom byproduct as a major concern for the FDA.

These concentrated 7-OH products have snuck into every community in America, and Im glad to see Floridas local leaders fighting back and educating Floridian parents, law enforcement professionals, teachers and community leaders about this threat to public health, Makary said.

Makary described the FDAs actions as preventative in a July press conference.

The Trump administration is deeply committed to preventing another wave of the opioid epidemic, Makary added.

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Paula Savchenko, an attorney and consultant at Cannacore Group, opposed the moves to shelve the kratom byproduct. She said products containing 7-OH are used to treat pain, anxiety and opioid recovery.

While we fully acknowledge the FDAs and the attorney generals concerns, we believe categorically scheduling it as Schedule I may impede scientific research and undermine harm reduction efforts that utilize kratoms therapeutic potential, Savchenko said.

She said products like kratom pose a threat to the larger pharmaceutical industry because they provide relief and are less addictive.

This is a direct target from Big Pharma and to the kratom industry because kratom is taking up part of the market share from opioids and thats a problem for big pharma, Savchenko said.

The FDAs classification will recommend the scheduling to the Drug Enforcement Administration, where it will issue a proposal to schedule the substance and allow for public comments. In 2016, the DEA shelved its plans to schedule kratom compounds after backlash from the public.
The Brief

Nationwide doughnut chain Krispy Kreme last had a location in Maplewood in 2008.

With more than 350 locations, the North Carolina-based doughnut and coffee chain is eyeing a return to Minnesota in Fridley, with a store opening in October, city officials have been told.

Its location will be at the former CVS at 5696 University Avenue NE.

FRIDLEY, Minn. (FOX 9) - Those still mourning the loss of a longstanding institution in Columbia Heights for their morning fix will have another option this fall, with Krispy Kreme slated to open in Fridley in October.

Krispy Kreme opening in Fridley

What we know

The North Carolina-based doughnut and coffee chain says it will open a location at the former CVS at 5696 University Avenue NE in Fridley, with a tentative opening date of October.

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According to the chains website, a so far inoperable phone number is: 612.464.4669.

A building permit for an interior and exterior remodel was submitted in September 2024, according to a spokesperson from Fridley. City officials say they now hear a tentative opening date is slated for October 2025, after initially aiming for this summer.

Krispy Kreme last operated a Minnesota location in Maple Grove from 2002 to 2008.

The Source

Information provided by the City of Fridley Community Development Department.
JACKSON, Ky. (FOX 56)  Jayden Spicers mother is facing charges after the missing 10-year-old boys body was found in a shallow grave after nearly a week of searching.

He was reported missing on Wednesday, Aug. 6, and was believed to have disappeared overnight, wearing blue Sonic the Hedgehog pajamas. The near week-long search for the missing boy came to an end on Tuesday, Aug. 12, Trooper Matt Gayheart told FOX 56.

RELATED | Community comes together to offer reward for missing Jackson boy

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After troopers received new information, their search pivoted to the Canoe Road area. Thats where his body would be found around 3 p.m., buried in a remote area off Canoe Road, around 19 miles from the boys Panbowl Branch Road home.

According to state police, Jaydens mother, 33-year-old Felicia Gross, has been charged with second-degree manslaughter, abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and falsely reporting an incident in connection with the boys death.

His remains have been sent to the state medical examiners office for an autopsy, per KSP.

While this is not the outcome that we had hoped for, we certainly are grateful that we were able to bring him out of the woods today, Miranda King, commonwealths attorney, said in a Tuesday night media briefing.

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This incident has now transitioned from a missing persons investigation to an active and ongoing criminal investigation. With that, we must advise that specific details regarding this investigation cannot be released at this time. It is our top priority to protect the integrity of this investigation to seek justice for Jayden, Gayheart said.

Gross provided a written statement to the media on Thursday, asking for prayers and for anyone with information to come forward. Investigators believe she wrote this knowing what had happened to her son.

Provided to FOX 56 by Kentucky State Police.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Gross has been lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Jail.

Felicia Gross mugshot (Kentucky River Regional Jail)

Investigators described their search for Jayden as exhaustive, combing over around twenty square miles in the immediate area using aircraft, drones, K-9s, sonar, FLIR, and boots on the ground search efforts.

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But the days dragged on, and many began to lose hope that Jayden would come home alive.

My honest opinion is somethings happened to that child. And thats broken my heart because somebody would have found something by now. Im praying for the Lord to show us, you know, hes okay or to find him, but then my mind is like, this is a recovery, Rosa McIntosh, a Jackson resident, told FOX 56 on Friday.

On Monday, Aug. 11, community members decided it was time to come together and offer a reward for information thatd bring the boy home. Jeff Turner lives in Jackson, and on Sunday, Aug. 10, he offered $500 for anyone who could bring Jayden home. He wasnt alone, and the comments were filled with nearly 100 people offering to contribute.

RELATED | Community prays for safe return of missing boy in Jackson

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The community raised over $3,000, and a Kentucky priest, Father Jim Sichko, offered to pay an additional $2,000 for Jaydens safe return. Its unclear if anyone will receive the reward money or where the information leading investigators to Jayden came from.

I would like to take a moment to thank the many different organizations that assisted in the search efforts for Jaden. All of the volunteers that spent numerous hours and days trying to locate him. Thank you to every person that sent tips or even shared a social media post. Thank you for the many prayers that were prayed, and we ask that you continue to pray for a community that grieves during this tragic loss, Gayheart said.

Father Sichko has since offered to pay for the boys funeral expenses.

It appears that there are people all over the world who love and care for this baby. Because of that, I would like to assure the public that now, thanks to these guys, Jayden is now in good hands, King affirmed.

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FOX 56 is working to learn more about what led to Jaydens death and his mothers arrest. We have obtained court documents showing that Gross has faced numerous charges over the years, including endangering the welfare of a minor.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
ASHLAND CITY, Tenn. (WKRN)  The Ashland City Police Department recently intercepted a sizeable drug shipment of mushrooms, vapes and THC gummies.

Authorities said the incident began as a traffic stop for speeding, but when officers smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, it quickly became a much larger investigation.

Citizen tip helps lead Williamson County deputies to suspected burglars

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Bodycam video obtained by News 2 shows the moment law enforcement stopped the vehicle and the subsequent interview with the suspects.

We are going to get you guys out one at a time, so maam, place your hands up on the steering wheel, an officer could be heard advising one of the occupants in the vehicle.

When police asked Abigail Miller if she had been smoking, the Oak Grove woman allegedly told them that she had.

Did you guys have any marijuana in the car? Because he smelled the odor of it, asked one officer.

Yeah, we smoked earlier today, but that was it, replied Miller.

After searching the vehicle, officers reported they found a table load of contraband, including more than a half pound of marijuana, two ounces of mushrooms, 14 bags of THC gummies and three boxes of mushroom gummies.

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VIDEO: Powerball jackpot winner from Kentucky tackled, tased after kicking Florida deputy

In addition, a search of the back seat led to the discovery of even more contraband, such as THC, mushroom chocolate bars, THC vapes and more than $3,500 in cash.

Sgt. Alexis Duncan with the ACPD told News 2 that the traffic stop illustrated good police intuition.

Like I said, our officers did a great job being proactive and looking beyond the stop and writing a speeding ticket, she said.

According to officials, a handgun was also found in the vehicle. As seen on video, the passengeridentified as 27-year-old Alejandro Hermosillotold an officer, Do you want me to show you where the gun is at? Its her gun.

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Investigators said it is believed that the Oak Grove couple were transporting the drugs to an apartment complex in Ashland City.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee

After finding bricks of marijuana in a duffel bag, an officer could then be heard asking the suspects, Who is going to claim it? We we found, not only that, but you told us where it is, thats a felony amount, I can tell you right off the cuff. You also have a bunch of THC gummies, THC vapes, stuff like that.

Both Miller and Hermosillo have since been released from jail on bond. However, the duo is expected to appear in court in December.

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Ashland City police confirmed that the incident is under investigation. No additional information was immediately released.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Days after reports that a rising high school senior in L.A. was taken by federal immigration agents, an official with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed to KTLA that the teen is in custody.

Social media posts and a fundraiser set up to help the family of the young man, Benjamin Marcelo Guerrero-Cruz, indicate he was walking his dog on Aug. 8  just days after his 18th birthday and right before he was due to start his senior year at Reseda High School  when masked immigration agents took him into custody.

The posts stated that Benjamins family  including his mother, five-month-old twin brothers and another six-year-old brother  was waiting for him to return with the dog, but he never did.

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The family, per the posts, was unable to get information on his whereabouts after he was taken into custody. On Aug. 9, a GoFundMe was started to help them with legal expenses and other costs; an update posted the next day elaborated that Benjamin was cramped in a holding cell with about 50 others, without access to basic hygiene, warmth, or adequate food.

He has only water, and since being detained, he has not had proper access to a bathroom, there are just two toilets for everyone to share. He is cold, scared, and one of the youngest there, the update said.

Benjamin Marcelo Guerrero-Cruz as seen in a photo included in a GoFundMe.

On Wednesday morning, a senior official with the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement to KTLA that he was in their custody pending removal.

Teen with disabilities reportedly detained by ICE outside L.A. school

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Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz, an illegal alien from Chile, overstayed his visa by more than two years, abusing the Visa Waiver Program under which he entered the United States, which required him to depart the United States on March 15, 2023, the statement read.

The United States is offering illegal aliens $1,000 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live [the] American dream, the statement continued. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Lake City neighbors asking city to curb violence at Virgil Flaim Park

Seattle Police continue to search for the person who shot and killed two people at Virgil Flaim Park Monday night. Several people who live nearby say they heard over a dozen shots go off and a potential suspect run by.

You know, you just here pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, Charles Hall, who lives across the street from the park, said.

Those who live by the park in Lake City say there have been issues of violence and other dangers for years and believe an off-again, on-again encampment is the source of the problem.

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There are people in the immediate neighborhood who do not want to be in the park. Ive instructed my wife when she walks the dog not to be at this side of the park, Steven Stetler, another neighbor who lives near the park, said.

Stetler is one of many people in the neighborhood who have directly contacted city leaders on these issues. One neighbor shared with KIRO7 several letters addressing their concerns to District 5 Councilmember Debora Juarez, Council President Sarah Nelson, and Mayor Bruce Harrell. Neighbors say their letters have gotten no response from the city, which is why KIRO 7 asked Mayor Harrell what is being done to keep the area safe.

Well, a lot is being done. The fact of the matter is violent crimes are down dramatically. Homicides are down dramatically. Shots-fired calls are down dramatically. But for neighbors that are still experiencing this, again, statistics dont mean that much to this person, Mayor Harrell said.

Mayor Harrell says the city plans to remove the encampment in question on Wednesday. He says they will continue to make public safety a top priority, and he understands why people in the neighborhood are frustrated.

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My heart goes out to anyone that is experiencing this kind of trauma from seeing violence or experiencing it firsthand, Mayor Harrell said.

Neighbors like Hall hope city leaders are sincere about this, as he hopes the violence stops soon.

And I just hope that they get that person responsible and the city starts to do more, Hall said.

Councilmember Juarez sent this statement on the Virgil Flaim Park shooting:

To the residents  we are doing everything we can to address gun violence in your neighborhood. Your eyes and ears in helping the police in this investigation are invaluable. Sadly, these types of incidents are not new, and are happening in other parts of the city, which is why this council is working very hard with Seattle Police. I want to thank SPD and the King County Sheriffs Office for their quick response to this incident.  Debora Juarez

Seattle Police are still looking for the suspect and are asking the public for any information that can lead to an arrest. nearby
LAKE PLACID  A second Democratic candidate has announced their candidacy for the upcoming 115th assembly district special election.

Bridie Farrell of Lake Placid announced her decision to seek the Democratic nomination Tuesday.

Our economy isnt made of statistics or data. Our economy is made up of people  all of our people, Farrell said in a press release. We are individual people with different priorities and needs. However, in union there is strength. In teamwork there is strength. In hard work there is strength. and together we will continue working towards a better North Country. I am committed to listening to our communities and making a meaningful impact by approaching each issue with creativity, empathy, focus, and tenacity.

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The 115th district assembly seat is being vacated by long-time Assemblyman Billy Jones, the lone North Country Democratic state lawmaker who recently announced his decision to resign from office at the end of August.

CANDIDATES

Since then, Farrell is one of two Democrats to announce their candidacy. Michael Cashman, supervisor for the town of Plattsburgh, shared his intention to campaign for the Democratic nomination last week.

On the Republican side, Andrea Dumas, village of Malone mayor and Franklin County Legislator, has received several endorsements from high-ranking Republicans to run but has yet to announce her official candidacy.

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As previously reported by the Press-Republican, there is no petition process for this election, according to David Souliere, Clinton County Republican Commissioner.

Instead, its a County Committee Chair nomination between the three chairs  Franklin, Clinton and Essex  on the Democratic and Republican side. Any nomination meeting cannot officially occur until Jones vacancy, which is Aug. 31.

FARRELL BACKGROUND

The 115th Assembly District includes all of Clinton and Franklin Counties and part of Essex County, where Farrell resides.

Farrell previously ran for Congress in NY-21 in 2022 before stepping aside when redistricting drastically reshaped the district, her news release said.

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Her campaign plans to build on that experience.

Assemblyman Billy Jones served the district for nine years and we will build on his success. We will ensure every community in this district has a seat at the table, Farrell said. The North Country deserves leadership that listens to our families, neighbors, and communities. We need someone who isnt afraid to fight for what is right and always puts our district first.

Farrell was on the U.S. Short Track Speed Skating National Team and held three American Records. She celebrated her 16th birthday at her first of four Olympic Trials in the 1980 Miracle on Ice arena in Lake Placid.

Her educational path took her from BOCES vocational school, where she earned her CCNA certification, to Adirondack Community College, and to the land-grant College of Human Ecology at Cornell University, where she studied public policy and healthcare economics.

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Farrell, an advocate on behalf of crime victims and survivors of abuse and exploitation, said she was also instrumental in the passage of New Yorks Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act.

DESERVES A CHAMPION

Our community deserves a champion in the Assembly and beyond, Farrell said. Neighbors, small business owners, and folks from every corner of our district and across New York are showing up because they believe we can get things done together.

According to Farrells news release, her approach is straightforward: listen to people, then bring their voices to the table where decisions are made.

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Farrell was later successful advancing comparable bills in Arizona, New Jersey, California and beyond, closing critical loopholes and promoting rights for victims of crime and abuse.

Her experience pushing major legislation across the finish line in Albany, and around the country, stands out as an invaluable qualification in her bid for the state legislature, the news release stated. The implications of this years special election in the 115th District will extend beyond the state legislature as the future of New Yorks 21st Congressional District remains uncertain.

GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGN

Farrells first days as a candidate for Assembly have already brought in over $50,000 in grassroots contributions  a sign, she says, of the energy and commitment of the community.

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Farrells campaign will be centered around increasing access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, and reliable broadband, strengthening support for farmers and agriculture, and bolstering the regional economy by creating jobs, supporting unions, and improving wages and benefits for workers.

Successful fundraising is necessary for the way our current campaign system works, Farrell said. More importantly, the enthusiasm of support by people across the district is energizing, and Im ready to build on this momentum.

The date of the upcoming special election has not yet been announced, but is expected to coincide with the General Election on Nov. 4.

A tour of the district and a series of kitchen table conversations with Farrell are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Amy Loafea spotted the Las Vegas skyline as she reached the end of her 300-mile trip, but after a loud bang, her arm began to stream with bloodit wasnt a gunshot.

On Sunday, Nevada State Police responded to calls from injured drivers along the I-11 near the Wagon Wheel Drive exit. The rocks hit at least four cars and causing moderate to severe damage, according to police.

I felt something, and blood was going everywhere, Loafea said. I initially thought I was gunshot.

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Loafea was driving back from visiting her daughter in Arizona, a trip she has done before, and initially thought the injury she sustained came from a passing truck driver.

I remember saying to myself, thats the truck, they shot you, she said.

After calling 911, she lay in the gravel alongside the freeway and called family members, telling them what they needed to know if she didnt survive her injuries. Loafea, before she was taken to Sunrise Hospital, saw the hole in her windshield and realized it wasnt a gunshot.

I recall looking down at the floorboard the passenger side, and the boulder was laying on the floor, she said. Im thinking it fell from the mountain top and just freak accident.

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Nevada State Police are investigating the incident and seeking a suspect who possibly threw the rocks from a nearby pedestrian bridge.

A gap in the bridge

Loafea said after leaving the hospital she has become frustrated with how such an incident is possiblepointing to a gap in the pedestrian bridge.

Why is it okay that someone could physically, even have the ability to throw anything, she said.

8 News Now visited the pedestrian bridge off Dawson Avenue, which does have gaps over the freeway. Loafea said she hopes more fencing is placed to keep the thousands of drivers below safer from rocks or other objects thrown.

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The incident has also left Loafea in a maze of paperwork, a $662 fee to recover her car, and multiple phone calls with insurance companies whom she said have not made the process of recovery any easier.

This wasnt just caused by a mistake I made, or something that, Im paying the price, she said. Someone did this to me, they made a choice.

Two drivers were taken to the hospital with serious injuries Sunday night. The suspects left the scene before officers arrived, according to police.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact 702-668-3261.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Nevada board shuttered a Las Vegas funeral home after finding it failed to timely bury or cremate bodies  including one case where a woman was not cremated for almost 11 months.

The Nevada Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services voted last week to pull the license of McDermotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services. The board met over two days to review four complaints filed against the business, which is located in an industrial area on Western Avenue near Sahara Avenue.

On Friday, following the closure order, officials with the Clark County coroners office moved bodies from the businesss crematory.

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The main complaint involved the funeral homes failure to [cremate] or otherwise [dispose] of eight bodies for an extended period of time. Nevada law stipulates that a funeral home must bury or cremate a body within a reasonable time after death, however, an exact amount of time is not written into law.

The Nevada Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services voted last week to pull the license of McDermotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services. The board met over two days to review four complaints filed against the business, which is located in an industrial area on Western Avenue near Sahara Avenue. (KLAS)

In one case, a womans body remained at the crematory for nearly 11 months before cremation, board documents said.

The allegations surrounded board inspections in July and August 2024, where an inspector determined several bodies in McDermotts care were there for an extended period. The inspector also located three coolers containing numerous bodies that were leaking blood and bodily fluids, documents said.

Photos provided in the documentation show stained sheets, which the inspector notes were not changed after a subsequent inspection. During one visit, the inspector noted fluids of a body had dripped onto a body on a lower shelf and onto the floor.

During one inspection, one body was lying in the cooler with no lid and the persons face visible, documents said. The funeral home told the board the body was awaiting preparation. (KLAS)

During one inspection, one body was lying in the cooler with no lid and the persons face visible, documents said. The funeral home told the board the body was awaiting preparation.

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The funeral director told the board that just one employee was working in the crematory during the inspection and that the inspectors arrived before business hours.

In another case, a family filed a complaint after their loved one, who died in December 2023, was not cremated for 51 days after her death, documents said. An investigative report indicates the family was told there was a two-week delay and that the company was running behind.

In a response to the allegations, the funeral director wrote to the board, indicating most of the bodies awaiting burial or cremation involved social services and that takes weeks, months or in extreme cases over a year to complete. That process involves the county paying for the funeral homes services if a family cannot or if the person does not have next of kin.

We do our best to make sure our bodies are stored in a clean, dignified way, he wrote to the board, adding he felt the inspections unfairly targeted his business, documents said.

In a response to the allegations, the funeral director wrote to the board, indicating most of the bodies awaiting burial or cremation involved social services and that takes weeks, months or in extreme cases over a year to complete. (KLAS)

The board also cited McDermotts for opening an office space on Decatur Boulevard without formal approval, documents said.

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In 2021, the board cited McDermotts for a similar delay in service.

State law requires a death certificate to be filed within three days unless an autopsy is required, according to the Office of Vital Records.

In an email to 8 News Now, McDermotts general manager called the inspections baseless, saying the board denied them an opportunity for corrective action. She said she wrote a letter to Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo to escalate the situation.

Las Vegas police and the Clark County coroners office work at McDermotts crematory on Aug. 8, 2025. (KLAS)

She did not return a request to schedule an interview on those accusations or the boards findings. Minutes from the boards meeting last week were not posted to the boards website as of Tuesday, as the board will vote on their approval during its next meeting in November.

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Seven members comprise the board, including two who oversee funeral services at two competing Las Vegas funeral homes, according to the boards website.

8 News Now Investigator David Charns can be reached at dcharns@8newsnow.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A woman is accused of hoarding at least 48 cats  both alive and deceased  with police locating some animal remains stored in her garage, according to documents 8 News Now obtained Tuesday.

Elisabeth Covington faces 107 charges connected to a search of her east valley home, records said. In all, police said they found 27 deceased cats and 21 sick ones in her care.

On Wednesday, Aug. 6, police received a call for service from Clark County Animal Protection Services regarding an east valley home with an excess number of cats inside, documents said. During a search at the home near Flamingo Road and Mountain Vista Street, officers located two deceased cats as well as several living animals, they said.

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Animal protective services received an initial complaint in 2023 regarding a woman with over 20 cats and kittens inside the home and feral cats in her care, police said. However, at the time, animal protective services received no allegations of neglect, they said.

A letter was generated and mailed to the home to advise [of] the crime of excess of cats, but no response was ever received, police said.

Earlier this year, animal protective services received another complaint about an excessive number of cats, police said. An animal control officer noted a strong smell of decomposition and a urine/ammonia smell across the unkempt property. The visit led to the search executed Aug. 6.

The house was impossible to walk through, as there was stuff all over the walls, feces on the floor, boxes everywhere, police wrote about the search, adding officers located boxes stacked on top of each other, each box containing multiple dead cats.

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The Animal Foundation took in about two dozen living cats, all that appeared sick, dirty or malnourished, police said.

During an interview with police, Covington said she catches and release[s] cats, police said. She faces charges including animal abuse and failing to comply with sterilization requirements, records said.

A judge did not set bail during a probable cause hearing last week as prosecutors had yet to formally file charges, records said. A status check in the case was scheduled for Dec. 8.

Police and court records identify Covington as Convington, however, property records correctly identify the spelling of her name.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police arrested an Uber driver after they said he twice ran over an innocent bystander during an argument in Downtown Las Vegas, according to documents 8 News Now obtained.

Kevin Vo, 45, faces a charge of reckless driving resulting in death, records said. Vo was driving for the rideshare company at the time, police said.

On Friday, Aug. 8 around 10:20 p.m., Metro police received several 911 calls about an SUV striking a person near the intersection of First Street and Ogden Avenue.

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The victim, Matthew Bowens, 56, died despite help from Las Vegas Fire and Rescue paramedics and a security guard, police said.

Witnesses told police the driver, identified as Vo, was in an argument with another man before he allegedly backed into Bowens, drove forward, running him over a second time, and collided with the Circa Resort & Casino, police said.

Mr. Vo was seen on video outside his vehicle, arguing with the man before re-entering it, documents said. As Mr. Vo re-entered his vehicle, [Bowens] walked behind the Cadillac from the west to the east, outside of a marked or implied crosswalk. Mr. Vo put his vehicle in reverse and began to back up, quickly turning the wheel and changing directions to the northeast.

Police allege Vo ran over Bowens twice, documents said, with rapid acceleration. Vo then exited his car and attended to Bowens before EMS arrived. At the time of Vos arrest, police had not yet found the second man involved in the altercation.

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At the time of his arrest, police suspected Vo was impaired; however, records show prosecutors are not charging Vo with any impairment-related charge.

In an interview with police, Vo said he was waiting for a fare when an unknown man approached his car.

He stated the male made unprovoked threats towards him, stating that he would kill him, police said. The male attempted to enter the passenger door of the vehicle, but he was able to lock the door to prevent his entry.

Vo told police he attempted to scare the man away with a window breaker and later remembered reversing the car, accelerating forward, and colliding with the building, documents said.

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During Vos probable cause hearing in Las Vegas Justice Court on Saturday, Judge Daniel Westmeyer set bail at $250,000, records said. Vo was expected to return to court on Wednesday.

Metro police identified Bowens as Bowen, however, the coroners office identified him as Bowens. His cause and manner of death remained pending as of Wednesday.

A representative from Uber did not immediately return a request for comment.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Right-wing influencer Laura Loomer has claimed GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene is corrupt in the latest escalation of their online feud.

The feud between the two staunch supporters of President Donald Trumps Make America Great Again movement started over disagreements about the Trump administration's continued support for Israels war in Gaza.

Loomer, who is Jewish, is a strong supporter of Israel, and Greene has been outspoken about the U.S. not intervening in foreign wars. Greene has called Israels war in Gaza a genocide.

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Their quarrel took an explosive turn after Loomer accused Greene of cheating on her ex-husband like a whore, and now she is claiming the congresswoman is funneling campaign money to one of her daughters.

GOP Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, left, was accused of being corrupt by right-wing influencer Laura Loomer, right, in the latest escalation of their online feud (Anna Moneymaker/David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

Loomer wrote on X Tuesday afternoon, citing Federal Election Commission data, Greene is using her campaign fundraising to enrich her daughter Taylor Greene Robinson, who she has funneled over $113,279.09 in staff payroll from her campaign funds since March of 2024 even though the daughter lives out of state in Yoakum, Texas.

The Independent has reached out to Greenes office for comment.

The feud intensified Monday after Greene suggested Loomer is bankrolled by Israeli intelligence.

Loomer, who is Jewish, is a strong supporter of Israel, and Greene has been outspoken about the U.S. not intervening in foreign wars. (Getty Images)

Greene wrote on X, She is not MAGA, she is MIGA, referring to the slogan Make Israel Great Again, adding, Many people are asking who or what government or what intelligence agency has bankrolled, the twice failed Congressional candidate, Laura Loomer all these years? 

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Loomer wrote in response: Just because you are consumed by your rage and jealousy doesnt mean you get to go around lying accusing private citizens of being intelligence agents.

I ran for Congress as a grassroots candidate and fundraised every penny I raised by myself by campaigning 18 hours a day and knocking on over 100,000 doors while being banned on every social media site. 

The feud between Greene, pictured, and Loomer started over disagreements about the Trump administration's continued support for Israels war in Gaza (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

In the same post, she took several blistering personal jabs: You ruined your entire family by cheating on your husband with a sex guru, and for the last 4 months, you have been doing nothing but spewing lies about the Trump admin because you dont get enough attention from the Trump admin, adding, You call yourself a Christian while you wreck your marriage like a whore.

In February 2021, the Daily Mail came out with a report, claiming Greene cheated on her husband with a sex guru and a gym manager. Greene called the story ridiculous tabloid garbage.

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Greene wrote on X later Monday: Laura Loomer viciously attacks and lies about those of us who are President Trumps most loyal original MAGA supporters.

Greene added, Laura Loomer is the most unstable person and worst liability to ever walk in the Oval Office.
For the second time in less than a year, the Oklahoma State Board of Education chaired by state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters needs a new attorney.

A Tulsa-based law firm withdrew from serving as the boards general counsel on Tuesday, Aug. 12, citing ongoing conflict between four new members of the board and Walters over who has the ultimate decision-making power on major education issues.

The law firm, Norman Wohlgemuth, had represented the board since October, after Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond withdrew his approval of Cara Nicklas of Edmond, the boards previous attorney. Such approval is necessary for private attorney to represent a public agency.

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One of Norman Wohlgemuths attorneys, Chad Kutmas, had primarily served in the role since that time. But it became clear during public meetings that Kutmas and four new board members appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt did not see eye-to-eye on issues. Kutmas often sided with Walters when the board raised questions regarding responsibilities.

In the boards most recent meeting on July 24, board members received a prickly response from Walters and Kutmas when they brought up whats become a thorny issue: their lack of power to place items on the board's meeting agenda.

Based upon recent developments questioning the scope and extent of the power and authority of members of the Board, many of whom were appointed after this firm was retained, vis-a-vis your power and authority as Chairman and President of the Board, we believe it is in the best interest of the Board, and appropriate as a matter of our professional responsibilities, to withdraw as General Counsel to the Board to avoid any conflicts of interest or even the appearance of any conflicts of interest in regard to these issues, attorney Joel Wohlgemuth wrote in a letter sent to Walters.

Near the end of July's board meeting, under the agenda category of New Business, board member Michael Tinney of Norman requested there be a discussion in August about board members adding items to the agenda. Fellow members Chris Van Denhende of Tulsa and Ryan Deatherage of Kingfisher signaled their support of Tinneys position. Kutmas tried to deflect conversation about that topic, and Walters affirmed afterward his opposition to it.

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Van Denhende asked for a special meeting of the board to be set within the next three weeks, citing a portion of the law governing the board that reads, Special meetings may be called by the president or by a majority of the members of the board.

He noted the absence during the meeting of Amy London, who since December had served as the boards executive secretary. Jennifer Hembree, the Oklahoma State Department of Educations senior director of compliance, served as the executive secretary during the meeting. Walters did not introduce Hembree during the meeting, nor did he address what happened with London.

Van Denhende noted a section of Oklahoma state law that reads: the State Board of Education shall  appoint, prescribe the duties, and fix the compensation of a secretary, an attorney and all other personnel necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the State Board of Education.

Chad Kutmas (right), who has served as the attorney for the Oklahoma State Board of Education -- which is chaired by state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters (left) -- no longer will hold that role.

He then asked why the board had not been notified about Londons departure. He asked for a special meeting of the board to be set within the next three weeks, citing another portion of the law governing the board that reads, Special meetings may be called by the president or by a majority of the members of the board.

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Kutmas said it was within Van Denhendes right to request a special meeting, but you cant do that today by a vote, because it wasnt on the Open Meeting Act.

Van Denhende said the appropriate time to discuss the issue was during the July meeting, because he'd raised the issue. Kutmas said such a request for a meeting wouldnt be made in the public. He suggested an email chain.

Nearly three weeks after the July 24 meeting, such a special meeting has not yet been set.

Kutmas also suggested the board had no mechanism to hire anyone, such as an executive secretary or an attorney, because it has no budget. Kutmas said the board was a part of the Oklahoma State Department of Education and not a separate entity, although the board and the state agency have separate attorneys because of sometimes-competing interests. The board also votes to approve or disapprove of multiple requests made by the agency.

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Van Denhende told The Oklahoman that since he joined the board in February, it has become evident that our current legal counsel prioritized the superintendents position over fostering a collaborative relationship with the full board. As board members, it is essential that we receive legal counsel that supports our fiduciary responsibilities and commitment to transparency.

Before a previous iteration of the board approved hiring Norman Wohlgemuth in 2024, Kutmas and other attorneys from the firm had represented  and still do  Walters in an ongoing libel and slander suit filed against the state superintendent by now-retired Bixby Public Schools Superintendent Rob Miller. Miller is an announced candidate for the state superintendent position in 2026.

The seven-member board has multiple options for its new attorney. Board members could opt for contracting with a private attorney, who would have to be approved by Drummond, who like Stitt has a thorny political relationship with Walters, a fellow Republican.

The board also could do what many state agencies do and use an attorney from Drummonds office. The latter option would be less expensive. In 2024, the Education Department reached a deal to pay Drummonds office attorneys $85 an hour for services, compared to the $300 an hour that Norman Wohlgemuth charged the board.

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I am committed to working alongside the superintendent, my fellow board members and the attorney generals office to appoint a highly qualified attorney, one who will provide balanced legal counsel and help ensure the level of oversight that the citizens of Oklahoma expect, and our students deserve, Van Denhende said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Law group representing Oklahoma State Board of Education withdraws
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT)  Officials said school threats are no joke and should be taken seriously. With a pre-filed bill, lawmakers hope to curb terroristic threats on and off school campuses.

I had teachers reaching out, other parents reaching out, their students were scared to go to school, said Sen. Matt Woods (R-Jasper). And, I felt like we had to do something about it. Weve got to curb this bad behavior.

That behavior, making a school threat, is a Class C felony in the first degree. A second degree offense is a Class A misdemeanor. Sen. Woods bill would bump those offenses to Class B, and Class D felonies respectively.

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It would also require the suspension of a student for one year. Woods explained students would have to pay restitution for any response to a school threat. Law enforcement and others are being pulled away from actual emergencies to respond to what may be a joke, or a hoax, said Woods. And so, to curb that behavior, were gonna put responsibility and accountability back on the families to try to curb this behavior.

Birmingham City Council approves $1.2 million in additional funding for micro-shelter project

Whether its a joke or not, administrators will be required to notify law enforcement of the threat if it warrants the student being charged. Former Baldwin County Sheriff, Huey Hoss Mack, serves as the executive director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association. He said this is important after new cell phone regulations have taken effect in Alabama schools.

We want to make sure that were still keeping up those lines of communication with our school administrators, with our SROs, in case we do have an incident, said Mack. Were able to communicate that and take the appropriate measures.

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Rep. Patrick Sellers (D-Birmingham) agreed the effort is necessary. Its very difficult for a child to learn when they are in fear, remarked Sellers. Or, fear that something, or harm will take place. So, as we create the safest space and place that we possibly can, I think its so important.

And with that fear, Mack said if you see something, say something.

Whether you believe it might be a serious threat or not, let law enforcement or the school administrators have the opportunity to look into that, to see if its a critical threat.

Sen. Woods said his bill made it through the House unanimously last year, but it stalled in the Senate. He said theyll be pushing the bill through both chambers in the next session to get it across the finish line.

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The 2026 legislative session will kick off on January 13, 2026.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42.
In the UK, uniforms are a part of everyday life for schoolchildren. Unfortunately, many of them are made with PFAS, also known as forever chemicals.

According to the Guardian, the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill aims to ban these harmful chemicals from uniforms.

While the bill's primary focus is on the cost of uniforms and branding, there are two amendments in the bill that address PFAS and synthetic fabrics.

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The Guardian noted, "Amendment 202A to the children's bill calls for an almost immediate ban on the use of PFAS in school uniforms, and a requirement for manufacturers to provide a digital product passport listing the chemicals."

PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are known to be linked to health issues, such as some cancers, birth defects, fertility issues, immune system disorders, high cholesterol, kidney disease, and other problems.

The 202B amendment focuses on artificial fibers and requires action within 12 months if they pose a health or safety threat or cause an environmental risk.

Sixty-four percent of global fiber production utilized synthetic fibers in 2021. No data is available regarding how many school uniforms were made of nylon, polyester, or other synthetic materials. However, there is anecdotal evidence that suggests "most uniforms are made from synthetic materials," per the Guardian.

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About 97% of Americans have PFAS in their blood. Additionally, research has detected the presence of synthetic fibers in blood, lungs, semen, breast milk, testicles, brains, and bone marrow.

While fibers are shed in the wash, 20 minutes of wear will produce a similar effect.

According to the Guardian, "The health impacts of plastic microfibers remain uncertain, but initial research has suggested they could increase the risk of various conditions such as oxidative stress or cardiovascular disease."

Green Party member Natalie Bennett, who supports the bill, said, "We are poisoning this planet, we are on a poisoned planet, and we're poisoning our own bodies."

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Sadly, in the U.S., it has been difficult to establish these kinds of laws because lobbyists have been paid by companies to stop them from getting passed, according to Food & Water Watch.

While the UK bill goes through committee, you can still protect yourself from PFAS and synthetic fabrics by supporting eco-friendly clothing brands. They're made with better materials and without the harsh chemicals. Because fast fashion has such a short shelf life, you'll also save a considerable amount of money in the long run, even if only some of the clothes you buy are eco-friendly, since they last longer.

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.
CHICAGO  A former CPS student has filed a lawsuit against the Chicago Board of Education, alleging it failed to conduct a thorough background check on a security guard who was later accused of sexual assault.

The former Farragut Career Academy security guard, 45-year-old Romel Campoverde, who was criminally charged in July of 2023 for allegedly sexually assaulting the student, is currently awaiting trial.

The former student has now filed a civil complaint alleging the district violated its own hiring policy, noting Campoverdes documented violent background.

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PREVIOUS COVERAGE: CPS security guard accused of sexually assaulting student

According to the six-count civil complaint, Chicago Public Schools violated its own hiring policy and regulations by failing to conduct a proper background check on Campoverde.

The complaint goes on to say Campoverde was a longtime and documented member of a street gang.

Between 2000 and 2020, Campoverde was arrested and charged with crimes on 16 occasions, including several aggravated assault charges with a weapon, aggravated battery, and burglary charges.

Romell Campoverde

The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, alleges the pair met in 2022 when Doe was a freshman at Farragut on Chicagos West Side.

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What Romel Campoverde did to me changed everything. I used to be a happy, outgoing teenager. I loved school. I trusted adults. After the attack, I couldnt go back to my school  I missed a whole year because I was too afraid. Too afraid to face my classmates, teachers, and other security guards. Even now, I still have nightmares. CPS hired a man to protect us that they should have known was violent. They were supposed to protect me. They didnt, the defendant said in a statement.

The lawsuit further alleges that Campoverde began grooming the plaintiff and would text regularly.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

In 2023, when Doe was 15, the suspect allegedly gave her alcohol and raped her off campus.

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Campoverde was later charged with criminal sexual assault. He is currently on house arrest, WGN-TV has learned, and is set to return to court on Aug. 25 on the charge.

Failed all those people

Mark Brown, an attorney with Lane Brown, LLC, represents the young woman, identified only as Jane Doe. Addressing the filed complaint on Wednesday, Brown slammed CPS for failing to follow its own regulations.

By not doing a comprehensive background check, they failed all of those people, and he raped a 15-year-old student, Brown said. They were supposed to look beyond the arrest and look at the victims statements to see what Romel Campoverde was accused of. They did not do that.

CPS responds

In a statement shared on Wednesday, a spokesperson for CPS said the district was not able to comment on pending litigation, but said the district is committed to students safety.

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Chicago Public Schools (CPS) remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students. In accordance with District policy, CPS does not comment on matters involving pending litigation, a district spokesperson 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.
A Georgia family has filed a lawsuit against Roblox, alleging that the online gaming platform facilitated the sexploitation of their then-9-year-old child, ABC affiliate WSB-TV reported.

The lawsuit claims that Robloxs insufficient security measures allowed adults to pose as children and send sexually explicit content to the child, who was then manipulated into sending explicit content back.

Roblox rolls out open-source AI system to protect kids from predators in chats

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Matthew Dolman, the familys attorney, stated that the platforms lax security enabled predators to groom the child by pretending to be other children.

And cloaked behind the anonymity of an online figure is someone else they think is like-minded, whos also 6 or 7 years old, who turns out to be a 38, 40-year-old man, he said

Roblox, which has over 110 million active users daily, is facing multiple lawsuits over similar allegations, with at least half a dozen expected to be filed soon.

In response to the lawsuit, Roblox emphasized its commitment to user safety, highlighting its use of AI-backed content moderation and parental controls to detect and prevent inappropriate content.

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We are deeply troubled by any incident that endangers our users, and safety is a top priority. We dedicate substantial resources, including advanced technology and 24/7 human moderation, to help detect and prevent inappropriate content, Roblox said in part.

Dolman criticized Roblox, suggesting that the company prioritizes increasing its user base and valuation over ensuring the safety of its young users.

Roblox has faced criticism and legal action regarding the safety of its young users, with concerns about predators exploiting the platforms features.

In 2022, police arrested Howard Graham on sex trafficking charges related to a 13-year-old girl he met on the platform.

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I think Roblox cares about putting as many people on their platform as possible to help out their valuation, Dolman said.

The lawsuits against Roblox underscore ongoing concerns about the safety of children on online gaming platforms, as families and legal representatives call for stricter security measures to protect young users.

VIDEO: Swatting call prompts massive police response in Cornelius
LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (WMBB)  The City of Lynn Haven has seen its fair share of controversy this summer.

First, there was the termination of City Manager Vicki Gainer, then a failed recall petition effort against Mayor Jesse Nelson, all within a month.

Now, as city officials navigate their search for Gainers replacement, they may also be dealing with a lawsuit filed by Gainer.

Freeport Middle and High School Band Director passes away

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Those very strong facts make for a strong case in her favor, Attorney Cecile Scoon said.

Local attorneys Alvin Peters and Cecile Scoon have recently added former City Manager Vicki Gainer to their client list.

Were still at the very beginning and cant give a set time of when were going to formally take action, but we are definitely working towards doing something formal, Scoon said.

Both partners appeared at Tuesday mornings Lynn Haven commission meeting, addressing city officials on behalf of Gainer, who was in the audience.

Peters called the commissions decision to terminate Gainer in July, abrupt, severe, discriminatory, and said it exposed the city to potential liability.

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The commentary then shifted to establishing what Peters said was discriminatory behavior by comparing Gainers suspension and eventual termination to that of former City Manager Michael White.

In 2019, White was sentenced to four years of probation for aggravated assault with a firearm and to time already served for a domestic battery charge involving an incident with his wife.

The city commission suspended Mr. White indefinitely with pay pending the completion of an investigation. Even though Ms. Gainer and Mr. White were subject to similar employment contracts, Mr. White was allowed to resign. He was allowed to craft his own severance package. He was afforded the benefit of an objective third-party investigation by the sheriffs office, Attorney Alvin Peters said.

Peters elaborated on what he says were differences in White and Gainers treatment.

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Scoon said Gainer was trying to do right by the city in her decisions regarding the bidding process, the issue that fueled the commissions decision to fire her.

Ms. Gainer, you thought had done something to the bidding process to prevent that particular person from being able to bid. So this could be the evidence that shows it should be no further from the truth. The two amendments that this panel was recommended to make and that she did make benefited the city by putting out subs. When you have one contract to do 75% of the work, every time you have a sub, they need their profit margin. It just gets more expensive, said Scoon.

A resident argued that Florida is an at-will work state, giving either side the ability to end the employment relationship at any time.

But Scoon says the question is not if Gainers termination was valid, but whether they can prove discrimination played a role.

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Walton County Fire Rescue assists in Okaloosa residential fire

The difference in treatment, Mr. White was actually arrested for a criminal offense where someone could have died, and got such great treatment. Ms. Gainer was taking care of city business, acting on the advice of her staff, and she was railroaded out. What is the difference? Mr. White is a white male, and this is a Black female, Scoon continued.

Scoon says the comparison between White and Gainers treatment wont be the only example they use to prosecute their case.

She also says they are confident theyve got the elements to prove discrimination.

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They are similarly situated. We have a protected class. Someone outside of the protected class is given more beneficial treatment. The person who is in the protected class is given adverse treatment. Theres your prima facie case, Scoon explained.

As for Gainers replacement, commissioners discussed the possibilities of hiring a search firm to find a pool of candidates. They balked at spending as much as $50,000 without trying to do some of the work themselves.

Mayor Nelson recommended that they put the item on the agenda for the next commission meeting to hear public feedback.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CLEVELAND (WJW)  The FOX 8 I-Team has learned that the lead federal monitor overseeing Cleveland police reform has resigned.

According to the U.S. federal court docket, Karl Racine resigned from his position Wednesday afternoon.

On August 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., the court held an informal status conference in the above captioned case with counsel for the parties and the Monitor, Karl Racine (Monitor), the federal docket states. During the conference, the court informed the parties that Mr. Racine had submitted a resignation letter expressing his intent to no longer serve as Monitor of the Cleveland Consent Decree. His fellow Hogan Lovells colleagues, including Deputy Monitor Stephanie Yonekura, would also transition off the case. The court expressed its gratitude to Mr. Racine for his committed and diligent leadership of the Monitoring Team over the last two years. The court stated, the oversight, advice, and feedback that you and the Monitoring Team have provided during your tenure has significantly benefitted the court and the parties. Please pass along my gratitude to the entire Hogan Lovells team.'

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Stimulus check 2025? What we know about current rebate legislation

Cleveland city spokesperson Tyler Sinclair sent the following statement:

This was unexpected, as the first time we were informed of the resignation was in court a mere 2 hours ago. As such, we will have internal discussions in the coming days to discuss next steps.

The resignation comes just months after the monitor came under fire for a run in with police at a downtown casino, yet no charges were filed.

In April, the I-Team asked Racine about the incident, but he declined to discuss the matter with us. He did release a statement saying he did not act out of line and didnt know why he wasnt allowed in the casino.

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Clevelands Civilian Police Review Board has taken action to find out more, approving money to hire an outside law firm to investigate that case and another unrelated case. That investigation is still pending.

Records show in his two years as lead monitor, Racine has billed the city for about $250,000. Hes told the I-Team no one should get hung up on the cost of reform in the police department, but that cost is even questioned in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno recently spoke out to the I-Team. This is the second time he has called for an end to the police oversight.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Israeli forces intensified a major aerial assault on Gaza City, killing at least 12 people and causing extensive damage overnight, ahead of a planned military operation to take control of the city, according to Palestinian authorities.

The city's residential districts of Zeitoun and Sabra had been hit by airstrikes for the third straight day, sustaining "massive damage to civilian homes," the Hamas-run Gaza civil defense agency said.

The fatalities, which occurred on Wednesday morning in an airstrike on a house in the east of the city, were among 39 killed across the Gaza Strip, including 19 people who were seeking humanitarian aid, medical sources told Al Jazeera.

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The latest casualties came as the foreign ministers of Britain, Japan, Canada, Australia and Switzerland joined the European Union in condemning the use of lethal forces at aid distribution sites and calling for urgent action to address famine "unfolding before our eyes" in Gaza.

Warning that international NGOs might be forced to leave Gaza any day due to new restrictive registration measures being imposed by Israel, which would further exacerbate the humanitarian situation, the countries said in a statement that "urgent action is needed now to halt and reverse starvation."

"We call on the government of Israel to provide authorization for all international NGO aid shipments and to unblock essential humanitarian actors from operating. Immediate, permanent and concrete steps must be taken to facilitate safe, large-scale access for the U.N., international NGOs and humanitarian partners," the statement read.

They demanded all crossings and routes be opened to facilitate a "flood of aid" into Gaza, including food, nutrition supplies, shelter, fuel, clean water and medicine and medical equipment.

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"We need a cease-fire that can end the war, for hostages to be released and aid to enter Gaza by land unhindered," the statement added.

Israel blames the United Nations and Hamas for the humanitarian situation, accusing the world body of refusing to distribute aid trucked into Gaza and Hamas of stealing supplies and reselling them to fund its military operations.

The Israel Defense Forces' chief of staff confirmed Monday it was embarking on a new phase in the fighting after the war cabinet of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved his plan to seize control of remaining Hamas "strongholds," including Gaza City.

"We are at the start of a new stage in the fighting in Gaza. We will do everything to protect the hostages and bring them home," Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said in an apparent U-turn after earlier backing a less drastic alternative proposal.

Zamir was reported to have opposed Netanyahu's plan on the grounds his forces were exhausted and doubts over IDF's ability to free the hostages through military force alone, pitching instead an incremental strategy involving laying siege to Gaza city. That idea was rejected because it was deemed less effective in achieving the goal of defeating Hamas.
At least 26 people have died after two boats sank off the southern Italian island of Lampedusa, and a United Nations agency says more refugees and migrants could be missing as search operations continue.

Rescue services on Wednesday rescued 60 survivors, with 56 men and four women brought ashore to Lampedusa, according to the Italian Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesperson for the UNs International Organization for Migration (IOM), said around 95 people had been travelling on the two vessels.

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Given that 60 people had been rescued, approximately 35 victims are feared dead or missing, he wrote on social media.

The disaster, involving people travelling from Libya, was the latest to befall refugees and migrants making the perilous Mediterranean crossing from Africa to Europe.

Rights groups and UN agencies have also documented systematic abuse against refugees and migrants in Libya, including torture, rape and extortion. In February, Libyan authorities uncovered nearly 50 bodies from two mass graves in the countrys southeastern desert, in the latest horror involving people seeking to make it to Europe through the North African country.

Since the beginning of this year, 675 people have died in the central Mediterranean while trying to make the crossing, said Filippo Ungaro, a UNHCR spokesperson in Italy.

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An Italian law enforcement aircraft spotted a capsized boat with bodies in the water about 23km (14 miles) off Lampedusa on Wednesday morning, triggering a rescue operation, a source close to the matter told the Reuters news agency.

The Reuters source said that based on initial accounts from the rescued people, they departed from the Tripoli area in Libya in the early morning aboard two boats. One of the boats began taking on water, and they transferred to the other vessel, which later capsized in rough waters.

Cristina Palma, who works for the Italian Red Cross in Lampedusa, said in a video statement that the survivors were in decent health, but four of them had been hospitalised for checks.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Melonis right-wing government has vowed to block the refugee and migrant sea journeys from Africa and has passed measures against human smugglers, including tougher jail terms, and has urged allies to do more to curb the migration attempts.




TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid in Gaza on Wednesday, health officials and witnesses said, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again called for what he refers to as the voluntary migration of Palestinians from the war-ravaged territory.

Netanyahu wants to realize U.S. President Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of over 2 million people through what he refers to as voluntary migration"  and what critics have warned could be ethnic cleansing.

Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the strip if they want," Netanyahu said in an interview aired Tuesday with Israeli TV station i24 to discuss the planned offensive in areas that include Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of displaced people shelter. We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave.

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Witnesses and staff at Nasser and Awda hospitals, which received the bodies, said people were shot on their way to aid distribution sites or while awaiting convoys entering Gaza.

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks

Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month. Hamas and Egyptian officials met Wednesday in Cairo, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou.

Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to talks in Cairo, Netanyahu's office said.

Israel's plans to widen its military offensive against Hamas to parts of Gaza it does not yet control have sparked condemnation at home and abroad, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire.

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The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war. Israel believes around 20 are still alive. Families fear a new offensive endangers them.

When asked by i24 News if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal, Netanyahu responded that he wanted all hostages back, alive and dead.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce.

Hamas says it will only release the remaining hostages in return for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The militant group has refused to disarm.

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Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority and Arab countries condemned Netanyahu's remark to i24 News that he was very attached to the vision of a Greater Israel. He did not elaborate, but supporters of the idea believe that Israel should control not only the occupied West Bank but parts of Arab countries.

South Sudan calls reports of resettlement talks baseless

Israel and South Sudan are in talks about relocating Palestinians to the war-torn East African nation, The Associated Press reported Tuesday.

The office of Israels deputy foreign minister, Sharren Haskel, said she was arriving in South Sudan for meetings in the first visit there by a senior Israeli government official, but she did not plan to broach the subject of moving Palestinians.

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South Sudans ministry of foreign affairs in a statement called reports that it was engaging in discussions with Israel about resettling Palestinians baseless.

The AP previously reported that the United States and Israel have reached out to officials of three East African governments to discuss using their territories as potential destinations for Palestinians uprooted from Gaza.

Killed while seeking aid

Among those killed while seeking aid were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, according to staff at Nasser hospital.

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Hashim Shamalah said Israeli troops fired toward them as people tried to get through. Many were shot and fell while fleeing, he said.

Israeli gunfire killed five other Palestinians while trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses. The Israeli military said it wasn't aware of any casualties from Israeli fire in that area.

GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites Wednesday.

The U.S. and Israel support GHF, an American contractor, as an alternative to the United Nations, which they claim allows Hamas to siphon off aid. The U.N., which has delivered aid throughout Gaza for decades when conditions allow, denies the allegations.

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Aid convoys from other groups travel within 100 meters (328 feet) of GHF sites and draw crowds. An overwhelming majority of violent incidents over the past few weeks have been related to those convoys, the GHF said.

Israeli fire killed at least six other people waiting for aid trucks close to the Morag corridor, which separates parts of southern Gaza, Nasser hospital said.

Israel says it killed a Hamas militant who took hostages

The Israeli military said Wednesday that it killed last week a Hamas militant who took part in the 2023 attack that started the war. It blamed Abdullah Saeed Abd al-Baqin for participating in the abduction of three Israeli hostages.

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The Hamas-led attack abducted 251 people and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israels air and ground offensive has since displaced most of Gazas population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory toward famine. The offensive has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals. The U.N. and independent experts consider it the most reliable source on war casualties. Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own.

Palestinian fatally shot in West Bank violence

An Israeli settler shot dead a Palestinian on Wednesday in the occupied West Bank, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

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The Israeli military said dozens of Palestinians hurled rocks toward an off-duty soldier and another person carrying out engineering works near the village of Duma, lightly wounding them. It said the soldier initially fired warning shots, then opened fire in self-defense.

The Health Ministry identified the deceased as Thamin Dawabshe, 35, a distant relative of a family targeted in a 2015 firebombing in the village by a settler. That attack killed a toddler and his parents. The attacker was convicted and handed three life sentences.

The West Bank has seen a rise in settler violence as well as Palestinian attacks since the start of the war in Gaza, and the Israeli military has carried out major military operations there. Rights groups and Palestinians say the military often turns a blind eye to violent settlers or intervenes to protect them.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
ATHENS, Greece (AP)  Wildfires intensified across southern Europe on Wednesday with a round-the-clock battle to protect the perimeter of Greeces third-largest city and at least three deaths reported in Spain, Turkey and Albania.

Outside the Greek port city of Patras, firefighters struggled to protect homes and agricultural facilities as flames tore through pine forests and olive groves. Tall columns of flames rose behind apartment blocks on the outskirts of the city, while dozens of vehicles were torched as flames swept through a nearby impound lot.

Today is another very difficult day with the level of fire risk remaining very high across many parts of the country, Fire Service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakoyiannis said. At least 15 firefighters were hospitalized or received medical attention for burns, smoke inhalation or exhaustion, he added.

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As water-dropping planes and helicopters swooped overhead, residents joined the effort, beating back flames with cut branches or dousing them with buckets of water.

After heatwaves, resources stretched thin

Firefighting resources were stretched thin in many affected countries as they battled multiple outbreaks following weeks of heat waves and temperature spikes across the Mediterranean region. On the Greek island of Chios, exhausted firefighters slept on the roadside following a night-long shift.

Aircraft rotated between blazes on the western Greek mainland, the Patras area and the island of Zakynthos. Athens also sent assistance to neighboring Albania, joining an international effort to combat dozens of wildfires. An 80-year-old man died in one blaze south of the capital, Tirana, officials said Wednesday.

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Residents of four villages were evacuated in central Albania near a former army ammunition depot. In the southern Korca district, near the Greek border, explosions were reported from buried World War II-era artillery shells. Authorities said dozens of homes were gutted in a central region of the country.

Deaths in Spain and Turkey

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed condolences after the death of a firefighting volunteer in the hard-hit Castile and Leon region north of the capital, Madrid, where thousands have been displaced by evacuations.

The wildfire situation remains serious, and taking extra precautions is essential, Sanchez wrote in an online post. Thank you, once again, to all those working tirelessly to fight the flames.

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Evacuation centers were filled to capacity in parts of central Spain, with some spending the night outdoors on folding beds. The most severe fires pushed northward into more rural areas, where some residents hosed the walls of their homes to try and protect them from fire.

Services along a high-speed rail link between Madrid and the northwestern Galicia region were suspended after fires got close to some sections of the tracks, state rail company Renfe said.

In Turkey, a forestry worker was killed Wednesday while responding to a wildfire in a southern region, officials said. The Forestry Ministry said the worker died in an accident involving a fire truck that left four others injured.

Turkey has been battling severe wildfires since late June. A total of 18 people have been killed, including 10 rescue volunteers and forestry workers who died in July.

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In France, which is recovering from massive recent fires in the southern regions, temperatures of up to 42 degrees Celsius (108 Fahrenheit) were expected for the third consecutive day. Officials issued weather alerts giving local authorities discretion to cancel public events and cordon off areas with high fire risks.

Lightning storms and farming practices cited as possible causes

Authorities across European countries have cited multiple causes for the massive fires, including careless farming practices, improperly maintained power cables and summer lightning storms.

Law enforcement officials in North Macedonia also cited indications of arson, motivated by rogue developers. Firefighters struggled to contain a blaze at a nature reserve outside the capital, Skopje, on Wednesday.

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The European Union has rushed aid to fire-hit countries, including non-member states, with ground crews and water-dropping aircraft. Much of the recent effort was concentrated on Montenegro, where major wildfires continued to burn in rugged areas near the capital, Podgorica.

Natural disasters know no borders," Ljuban Tmusic, head of Montenegro's civil protection agency said. In Montenegro, the resources we have ... are clearly not enough.

___ Semini reported from Tirana, Albania. Associated Press writers Suman Naishadham in Madrid, Andrew Wilks in Istanbul, Sylvie Corbet in Paris, and Konstantin Testorides in Skopje, North Macedonia, contributed to this report.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A 24-year-old mother was found guilty in a Leavenworth County court Tuesday in connection with the death of her 1-year-old daughter back in 2023.

Liberti N. Figueroa was convicted of two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child after her infant daughter, Saraphina Avarose Sanchez, died from head-related injuries.

According to Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, during the same two-day trial, the jury acquitted her of an involuntary manslaughter charge.

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Four cars flee scene of hit-and-run crash at 18th Street intersection in Kansas City

Previous reporting and court records state that on the evening of Oct. 18, 2023, officers were called to the Woodland Village Apartments on reports of a 1-year-old girl who was not breathing.

The little girl was taken to a hospital for multiple injuries and died later that night, police said.

Just a day later, FOX4 talked to Figueroa, who placed the blame on her husband.

He says, Oh no! Your son dropped her out of a crib. My son is four! Four! My daughter has been bleeding like that, and hes four. He wouldnt do that to her, Figueroa told us Oct. 19.

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Court records say the mother of the baby, Figueroa, had left for work the morning of Oct. 18, at about 9 a.m. She had asked her then-boyfriend to watch her baby, as well as her other child.

According to investigators, Figueroa described her boyfriend as not being a very responsible person, and that, before she left for work, the baby had been sick and sleeping.

Figueroa returned to the apartment at about 1 p.m., but court records say she didnt check on her baby until 4 p.m.

She told investigators her friends had come over to smoke marijuana inside the apartment. Further investigations revealed she had even left the home at some point to buy marijuana before returning.

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After several hours of believing her daughter was asleep, she eventually asked her boyfriend to check on the baby, she told FOX4 in a 2023 interview. By the time she saw her daughter, she said it was apparent she had been badly injured.

At about 5:30 p.m., police were called to the scene. The child was then taken to a hospital, where she later died.

Autopsy results confirmed the little girl had died from head trauma that caused internal bleeding.

Even though Figueroa was not directly involved in inflicting the injuries to her daughter, prosecutors argued that she acted recklessly by allowing a child to be placed in a situation where their life, body or health was endangered, resulting in death.

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Figueroa would not return our request for comment Wednesday, but ever since she blamed her then boyfriend for that incident, FOX4s wondered why he wouldnt be charged.

The evidence that we have at this time does not leave to us to be able to pursue any charges, Thompson said in response Wednesday. The evidence that we are aware of to go forth, was the fact that the mother was the responsible party.

Three people taken to hospital after building catches fire in Westport

One thing FOX4 has not reported until now is that court documents show Figueroas son told investigators after the incident, he dropped his sister out of the crib that she was in. One of our last questions for Thompson was how the bodily harm was caused that led to the one-year-olds death.

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We only know for sure that it was head trauma, Thompson replied Wednesday. At this time, thats the evidence that we know from the autopsy. Anything else is open to speculation and more investigation.

According to prosecutors, this case also led her to be charged in February 2025 with an additional aggravated endangerment of a child charge for an incident in September 2023.

According to prosecutors, on Sept. 20, 2023, Figueroa had been in an upstairs bedroom of her apartment when her 1-year-old daughter suffered burn injuries. This was less than a month before her daughter died from the head injuries.

Figueroa told investigators the burns occurred when an ashtray tipped over and fell onto the baby, who had been lying on the bed.

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Lees Summit police attempting to locate missing girl with autism

She was convicted of this charge on Tuesday.

Its truly heartbreaking to lose a child that is this young, Thompson said.

We are deeply grateful to the first responders, medical professionals and law enforcement officers whose dedication and hard work made this case possible. Our justice system is built on the principle that a jury of our peers considers the facts and applies the law fairly. We are grateful for this process and the role we play in it.

Figueroas sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 19 at 1 p.m. in the Leavenworth County District Court.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
During a meeting in Beirut with Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's top security body, Aoun warned against foreign interference in Lebanon's internal affairs.

No group in Lebanon is permitted to bear arms or rely on foreign backing, President Joseph Aoun told a senior Iranian official on Wednesday, days after the cabinet approved the objectives of a US-backed roadmap to disarm the Iran-aligned Hezbollah terrorist group.

During a meeting in Beirut with Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's top security body,Aoun warned against foreign interference in Lebanon's internal affairs, saying the country was open to cooperation with Iran but only within the bounds of national sovereignty and mutual respect.

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Lebanon, which respects the sovereignty of other nations, including Iran, will not accept interference in its internal affairs, he said.

"The friendship we seek with Iran must be with all Lebanese, not through one sect or component alone," Aoun said, according to a statement from his office.

Larijani saidthe Islamic Republic supports Lebanons sovereignty and does not interfere in its decision-making.

"Any decision taken by the Lebanese government in consultation with the resistance is respected by us," he said after separate talks with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, whose Amal movement is an ally of Hezbollah.

By "resistance," Larijani was alluding to the Shi'ite Muslim militant Hezbollah, which was founded in 1982, grew into a "state-within-a-state" force better armed than the Lebanese army and has repeatedly fought Israel over the decades.

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"Iran didn't bring any plan to Lebanon, the US did. Those intervening in Lebanese affairs are those dictating plans and deadlines," said Larijani.

He said Lebanon should not "mix its enemies with its friends - your enemy is Israel, your friend is the resistance."

"I recommend to Lebanon to always appreciate the value of resistance."

The US submitted a plan through President Donald Trump's envoy to the region, Tom Barrack, setting out the most detailed steps yet for disarming Hezbollah, which has rejected mounting calls to disarm since its devastating war with Israel last year.

Hezbollah has rejected repeated calls to relinquish its weaponry although it was seriously weakened in the war, with Israel killing most of its leadership in airstrikes and bombings.

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It was the climax of a conflict that began in October 2023 when the group opened fire at Israeli positions along Lebanon's southern frontier in support of its Palestinian Islamist ally Hamas at the start of the Gaza war.

Aoun added that recent language used by some Iranian officials had not been helpful, and reaffirmed that the Lebanese state and its armed forces were solely responsible for safeguarding all citizens.

Last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran supported any decision Hezbollah makes, adding that this was not the first attempt to strip the group of its weapons.

Lebanese cabinet approves US-proposal for disarming Hezbollah

Lebanon's information minister said the cabinet had approved on Thursday only the objectives of a US proposal for disarming Hezbollah by the end of the year, along with ending Israel's military operations in the country, but they did not discuss the full details of it.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrives to attend a meeting with the cabinet to discuss efforts to bring all weapons in the country under the control of the state, at the Presidential Palace in Baabda, Lebanon August 5, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/EMILIE MADI)

The plan, submitted by US President Donald Trump's envoy to the region, Tom Barrack, sets out the most detailed steps yet for disarming the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has rejected mounting calls to disarm since last year's war with Israel, according to a copy of a Lebanese cabinet agenda reviewed by Reuters.

This is a developing story.
BEIRUT, Lebanon, Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun rejected Wednesday "any interference" in his country's internal affairs, telling a top Iranian visiting official that no group in Lebanon is allowed to carry weapons or seek strength and support from outside forces.

Aoun's firm comments were made during a meeting with Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani at the Presidential Palace in Baabda shortly after his arrival in Beirut.

"We reject any interference in our internal affairs, regardless of its source," he said, according to a statement released by the Presidential Palace. Aoun emphasized that Lebanon does not interfere in the internal affairs of any other state, including Iran, and therefore expects the same in return.

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Iran, which has funded and armed Hezbollah since the group's formation in the early 1980s, has criticized a Lebanese cabinet decision last week that endorses the objectives of a U.S.-proposed plan to disarm the militant group.

The decision also mandates the Lebanese Army to develop a strategy for enforcing a state monopoly on weapons by the end of the year.

Hezbollah, which was significantly weakened during last year's war with Israel, rejected the cabinet decision and the deadline it has set for the group to lay down its weapons.

Aoun, backed by the majority of the country's constituents and political parties, remained firm in his stance, emphasizing that "no party, without exception, is permitted to bear arms or seek support from abroad against fellow Lebanese."

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He maintained that the Lebanese state and its armed forces were responsible for the security of all Lebanese without exception, adding that "any challenges posed by Israel or others are challenges to all Lebanese, not just a specific group."

While he dismissed recent remarks by Iranian military and political officials regarding Lebanon's decision to disarm Hezbollah and other armed groups as "not constructive," Aoun affirmed that his country remains "keen to cooperate with Iran within the bounds of sovereignty and mutual respect."

"It is natural for the Islamic Republic of Iran to pursue its national interests, but we in Lebanon also seek to secure our own interests," Aoun said.

Larijani, who also met with House Speaker Nabih Berri, said that Iran seeks to strengthen its relations with the Lebanese state, but advised Lebanon to "preserve and appreciate the resistance" that Hezbollah has been leading against Israel.

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"I am in charge of Iran's national security, and I am telling you, Iran has no intention at all to interfere in the affairs of any country, including Lebanon," Larijani told reporters after meeting Berri, Hezbollah's main ally who negotiated on its behalf the Nov. 27 cease-fire agreement brokered by the United States and France to end the 14-month war with Israel.

Larijani said, however, that other countries and outside forces should not "give orders" to Lebanon, referring to the United States handing Lebanese officials a roadmap for disarming Hezbollah.

"The Lebanese people are courageous and capable of taking their decisions by themselves," Larijani said in calling for "a friendly, inclusive and serious dialogue" between the Lebanese government and Hezbollah to achieve "sound decisions" over the issue of arms.

He called on the Lebanese to "distinguish between a friend and an enemy," warning them of Israel, which "has become a predatory animal."

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"We still advice you to preserve the resistance and value it highly," he said.

Referring to the 12-day war that broke out between Israel and Iran last June, Larijani said "your friend is the one who confronted Israel, and you should know the difference."

"Our message revolves around one point: for Iran, it is important that the countries in the region be independent in their decision-making and not need to receive instructions from across the oceans," he said.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also firmly rejected the recent statements by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader on International Affairs Ali Akbar Velayati and the deputy commander of the Quds Force for Iranian Coordination, Brig. Gen. Iraj Masjedi, stating that Hezbollah would never be disarmed.

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Salam said in a statement after meeting Larijani that the Iranian remarks, which included direct criticism of decisions by Lebanon's constitutional authorities and contained "explicit threats," were "a blatant violation of diplomatic norms and an infringement upon the principle of mutual respect for sovereignty."

"Neither I nor any Lebanese official would ever allow ourselves to interfere in Iran's internal affairs, such as favoring one faction over another, or opposing sovereign Iranian decisions," he said, stressing that the Lebanese government decisions "are not a topic for discussion in any other country" and that the Lebanese will not accept "guardianship or dictates from anyone."

Salam insisted that Lebanon "does not need lectures from anyone" after he has long been a leading defender of the Palestinian cause and has paid "a high price" in its resistance against Israel.

He noted that Lebanon is a small country that has long suffered from external interference, and "it is time to turn that page."

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"Lebanon will not accept being used as a platform for settling scores or a battleground for regional messaging," he also told reporters after the meeting with Larijani.

Hezbollah, which reportedly lost the bulk of its military capabilities in ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting its positions in southern and eastern Lebanon, accepted the ceasefire accord to stop a war that killed or wounded more than 20,000 people and left border villages in southern Lebanon in ruins.

The Iran-backed Shiite group has been trying to resist mounting pressures to drop arms, arguing that Israel remains a threat and should first withdraw from occupied Lebanese territories, stop its daily aggressions and targeted assassinations, as well as release a number of Lebanese prisoners.

Lebanon's decision to set a timeline for Hezbollah disarming was mainly motivated by the risk of another devastating war with Israel and of losing well-needed funds to rebuild its war-devastated regions.
Lebanese leaders firmly rejected any efforts at foreign interference during a visit by Iran's security chief Wednesday, with the prime minister saying Beirut would "tolerate neither tutelage nor diktat" after Tehran voiced opposition to plans to disarm Hezbollah.

The uncharacteristically blunt remarks hinted at a changed balance of power in a country where Iran has long wielded substantial influence by funding and arming Hezbollah.

The visit by Supreme National Security Council chief Ali Larijani comes after the Lebanese government ordered the army to devise plans to disarm the Tehran-backed militant group by the end of the year.

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Last week, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader had said the Islamic republic was "certainly opposed" to the disarmament plan.

"We reject any interference in our internal affairs," Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Wednesday, adding that "it is forbidden for anyone... to bear arms and to use foreign backing as leverage", according to a statement from his office.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam was equally firm, saying in a statement: "Lebanon will not accept, in any form, any interference in its internal affairs, and expects from the Iranian side a clear and explicit commitment to respect these principles."

Hezbollah has been a key part of Tehran's so-called axis of resistance against Israel, but Iran and its allies have suffered a series of blows.

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Hezbollah experienced devastating losses, including the death of its leader Hassan Nasrallah, over more than a year of hostilities with Israel that ended with a November 2024 ceasefire.

A month later, longtime Syrian ruler and Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad was ousted, depriving Hezbollah of its main conduit for weapons and supplies from Iran.

And finally, Israel went to war with Iran itself in June, with the United States stepping in briefly to bomb Iranian nuclear facilities.

Ever since last year's war, Hezbollah's firm grip on Lebanese politics has been slipping.

- 'Grave sin' -

Hezbollah has slammed the government's new disarmament push as a "grave sin", while Tehran has also declared its opposition.

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But in Beirut, Larijani said that no foreign power should give orders to Lebanon, adding that it was not Iran but the United States that was intervening.

Lebanon's cabinet recently considered a US proposal that included a timetable for Hezbollah's disarmament, with Washington pressing Beirut to take action.

"Any decision that the Lebanese government makes in consultation with the resistance is respected by us," Larijani said.

"The one who interferes in Lebanese affairs is the one who plans for you, gives you a timetable from thousands of kilometres away. We did not give you any plan."

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Salam, however, appeared to make clear the changed nature of the relationship, declaring that "Lebanon's decisions are made by the Lebanese themselves, who tolerate neither tutelage nor diktat".

"Lebanon, which was the first defender of the Palestinian cause and paid a heavy price in its confrontation with Israel, has no lessons to receive from anyone," he continued.

Iran's government has long portrayed itself as a defender of the Palestinians, with militant group Hamas in Gaza another member of its axis.

- 'Stand by' Lebanon -

Before the latest war with Israel, Hezbollah was believed to be better armed than the Lebanese military.

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It long maintained it had to keep its arsenal in order to defend Lebanon from attack, but critics accused it of using its weapons for political leverage.

In Beirut, Larijani vowed continued Iranian support.

"If... the Lebanese people are suffering, we in Iran will also feel this pain and we will stand by the dear people of Lebanon in all circumstances," Larijani told reporters.

In addition to meeting President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam, Larijani was due to sit down with parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who is close to Hezbollah.

He was also expected to visit the grave of Nasrallah, who was killed in a massive Israeli bombing in south Beirut last year.

lar/ser/dcp/smw
BEIRUT (AP)  Lebanons president told a top Iranian security official Wednesday that Beirut rejects any foreign intervention in its internal affairs and wants Lebanon to remain stable and secure for the good of its people.

Ali Larijani, secretary of Irans Supreme National Security Council, is the most senior Iranian official to visit Beirut since the Lebanese government voted last week for a U.S.-backed plan to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah group by the end of the year and implement a ceasefire with Israel.

Iran has lambasted the plan, while Hezbollah has refused to recognize it and vowed not to disarm. The Mediterranean country has been under international pressure to get the militant group to lay down arms after a bruising war with Israel that ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in November.

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Lebanon desires cooperation with Iran within the framework of sovereignty and friendship that are based on mutual respect, President Joseph Aoun said in remarks released by his office after meeting Larijani. He also said Lebanese-Iranian relations should be with all the people of Lebanon and not just one religious sect, criticizing recent comments by Iranian officials.

Larijani told reporters after meeting Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri that his country does not interfere in Lebanons internal affairs, accusing the United States of ordering the Lebanese government to implement a foreign plan.

The senior Iranian official also said his country rejected the plan and that any proposal to disarm Hezbollah should be part of an internal dialogue between the government and the Iran-backed group. He called on the Lebanese people to preserve the resistance, saying that Iran will stand by Lebanon in case of any Israeli escalation and if Lebanon asks for help.

At Beiruts Rafik Hariri International Airport, hundreds of Hezbollah supporters greeted Larijani while chanting death to America and waving Iranian flags and the groups yellow banners in a show of support for Tehran.

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Over the past four decades, Iran has funded and armed Hezbollah with billions of dollars, making it Tehrans strongest proxy in the region. Things changed recently and Hezbollah has been severely weakened by the 14-month war with Israel that left much of the groups political and military leadership dead.

The war killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon, displaced over 1 million and caused destruction that the World Bank said will cost $11 billion in reconstruction.

Last week, Ali Akbar Velayati, an adviser to Irans supreme leader, said Tehran is opposed to disarming Hezbollah, leading a harsh response from Lebanons Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi, who said they represent a flagrant and unacceptable interference in Lebanons internal affairs.
A landmark Lebanon drive-in diner that opened in the 1950s and still reflects the time-period is being assured it can keep its iconic neon signs that appeared threatened by a new city ordinance.

Snow White Drive is an American Graffiti-style restaurant on West Main Street that opened in 1953 and continues to be a destination where customers flash their headlights for outside service and order food.

The Lebanon City Council approved an ordinance in March to restrict a commercial establishment to no more than one neon or LED lighted sign in a window that faces the right-of-way or public.

Snow White Drive In on West Main Street in Lebanon.

The intent of the ordinance was to clean up some check-cashing, vape and convenience stores that were drawing complaints and not to impact Snow White, Lebanon Councilmember Tick Bryan said.

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Letters were sent out to businesses about the ordinance.

Snow White got its notification on Aug. 11, owner Summer Lehew said.

The lighting on top of the Snow White structure was not going to be impacted by the ordinance, Bryan said. But lighted window signs of ice cream with a picture, one that says Coneys and one that says Onion Rings could be.

However, Lebanon officials have encouraged Snow White's ownership to request a variance through the Board of Zoning Appeals. The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 22, according to the citys website.

"I believe the issue can be resolved," Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell said. "We will assist them in their application to the Board of Zoning Appeals. We will also look at alterations when our zoning code is updated."

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Lehew has been told the lighted signs can stay up until the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

It doesnt affect the lighting around the building and if the variance is approved, and Im 99.9 percent sure it will be, they dont have to change anything, Bryan said.

An online petition to save the Snow White signs generated more than 4,300 signatures as of mid-afternoon on Aug. 13.

Its amazing. Were definitely overwhelmed by it, Lehew said of the support. And appreciative.

Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Snow White Drive In customers rally around 1950s Lebanon diner
By Jana Choukeir and Ahmed Elimam

BEIRUT (Reuters) -No group in Lebanon is permitted to bear arms or rely on foreign backing, its president told a visiting senior Iranian official on Wednesday after the cabinet approved the goals of a U.S.-backed roadmap to disarm the Iran-aligned Hezbollah group.

During a meeting in Beirut with Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's top security body, Joseph Aoun warned against foreign interference in Lebanon's internal affairs, saying the country was open to cooperation with Iran but only within the bounds of national sovereignty and mutual respect.

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Larijani said the Islamic Republic supports Lebanons sovereignty and does not interfere in its decision-making.

"Any decision taken by the Lebanese government in consultation with the resistance is respected by us," he said after separate talks with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, whose Amal movement is an ally of Hezbollah.

By "resistance", Larijani was alluding to the Shi'ite Muslim militant Hezbollah, which was founded in 1982, grew into a "state-within-a-state" force better armed than the Lebanese army and has repeatedly fought Israel over the decades.

"Iran didn't bring any plan to Lebanon, the U.S. did. Those intervening in Lebanese affairs are those dictating plans and deadlines", said Larijani.

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He said Lebanon should not "mix its enemies with its friends - your enemy is Israel, your friend is the resistance ... I recommend to Lebanon to always appreciate the value of resistance."

Later on Wednesday, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said after meeting Larijani that recent remarks on Lebanon by Iranian officials including Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi were totally rejected by his government. He said the comments constituted a "violation" of the principle of mutual state sovereignty.

Last week, Araqchi said Tehran supported any decision Hezbollah made and this was not the first attempt to strip the group of its arsenal.

Ali Akbar Velayati, top adviser to Iran's supreme leader, also criticised the Lebanese government's move on disarmament. "If Hezbollah lays down its weapons, who will defend the lives, property, and honour of the Lebanese?" he said.

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The U.S. submitted a plan through President Donald Trump's envoy to the region, Tom Barrack, setting out the most detailed steps yet for disarming Hezbollah, which has rejected mounting calls to disarm since its devastating war with Israel last year.

Hezbollah has rejected repeated calls to relinquish its weaponry although it was seriously weakened in the war, with Israel killing most of its leadership in airstrikes and bombings.

It was the climax of a conflict that began in October 2023 when the group opened fire at Israeli positions along Lebanon's southern frontier in support of its Palestinian Islamist ally Hamas at the start of the Gaza war.

Aoun also said recent remarks by some Iranian officials had not been helpful, and reaffirmed that the Lebanese state and its armed forces were solely responsible for protecting all citizens.

(Reporting by Jana Choukeir in Beirut and Ahmed Elimam in Dubai, additional reporting by Jaidaa Taha and Yomna Ehab; editing by Toby Chopra, Aidan Lewis and Mark Heinrich)
They may end up being the ones who got away.

A wild police pursuit Sunday was already notable for its dramatic twists and turns. Authorities say two suspects carjacked a truck in Lancaster and opened fire on its owner before the police gave chase. In the hours that followed, they stole two more vehicles before ending up in a Chevrolet Silverado under a freeway overpass in Boyle Heights, shielded from the police and TV helicopters overhead.

Then things got really strange. The two suspects appear to have escaped in another car with the help of accomplices, according to law enforcement sources. Three days later, they are still at large.

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"It's obvious that they were well versed on the region, the area," said Art Acevedo, a former California Highway Patrol section chief who has decades of experience in pursuits. The suspects used tactics that Acevedo says are "completely aggressive, really reckless and highly dangerous."

L.A. has long been obsessed with police pursuits, which are regularly televised across TV and the web. They have become the cornerstone of key cultural moments, led by the O.J. Simpson "slow speed" chase in 1994.

What happened in Boyle Heights might end up going into the annals of chase lore.

The vast majority of the time, such chases end with the suspect being captured, especially in high-profile incidents covered in real time on TV and online.

Carjackers commandeered a big rig, which they drove the wrong way on an L.A. freeway on Sunday. (OnScene.TV)

Over the years, pursuit suspects have tried to evade police by driving into parking garages or into Los Angeles International Airport, where there are flight restrictions for news choppers, or trying to run for it. Usually they fail, but not all the time.

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A 2017 Los Angeles County civil grand jury report studied 421 police pursuits in the county that were reported to the California Highway Patrol and found that suspects were immediately apprehended in 67% of the chases, leaving 139 pursuits that did not end in an arrest. Fifty-nine involved vehicles escaping, and 47 ended because police abandoned the pursuit, usually for safety reasons.

Often, police find suspects later, using fingerprints and other means. In the case of the Sunday chase, police are processing forensics from the stolen vehicles including a loaded gun discovered to see whether that can link them to the suspects. But it's unclear whether the weapon belonged to the men inside the vehicle.

In recent years, some agencies have changed their procedures  backing off chases in hopes of avoiding crashes that could injure innocent bystanders.

"We don't want to injure or kill any innocent bystanders. That's a greater tragedy than letting these guys get away," said Ed Obayashi, a Northern California deputy and policing expert.

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According to statistics presented to the police commission, the LAPD was involved in 1,116 pursuits in 2024  the most chases since at least 2018. A little more than 30% resulted in some kind of crash. But the department has seen a decline this year.

Sunday's chase began around 9:45 p.m. when two suspects stole a white Ford F-250 truck near 20th Street East and Lancaster Boulevard in Lancaster. The owner of the vehicle chased the suspects, but retreated when they opened fire, according to the Sheriff's Department.

That was just the beginning of what became a long night for the suspects and law enforcement.

At one point, video shows, the men were driving the wrong way on a freeway with what appeared to be a shredded tire. The truck slowed, and the passenger jumped out, apparently attempting to carjack a white sedan whose driver quickly locked the doors.

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The passenger got back in the Ford and they continued a short distance before they stopped again and tried to carjack a big rig. But the semi-truck's driver threw it in reverse and the suspect abandoned the plan, jumping back into the Ford and continuing on.

Moments later, the suspect driving the Ford slammed the vehicle into the front of another semi-truck carrying milk. He ran to the passenger side of the massive rig and unlocked the door from the cracked window as the truck driver fled, video shows.

They drove the truck, which had "Got Milk" signs displayed on the mud flaps, along the 5 Freeway and 101 Freeway through Studio City, Hollywood and downtown and at times went onto surface streets.

Eventually, they stopped the truck at a 10 Freeway underpass near Alameda and Newton streets and ditched the big rig.

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Video from the scene shows California Highway Patrol officers surrounding the massive vehicle before eventually realizing the driver and passenger are gone. Those watching at home thought maybe the suspects had made a quick escape.

But police were still on them.

Authorities say they jumped into a third vehicle  a white Chevrolet Silverado truck  before taking off to Boyle Heights. The suspects eventually abandoned the Silverado on Mission Road under the 101 Freeway underpass and escaped, officials said.

Obayashi, the policing expert, said it's becoming more common for suspects to drive under overpasses  out of the view of helicopters  because the ground units are staying back for safety reasons, giving them a chance to make their escape.

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"They go through the aqueducts or other exits and someone could be waiting for them," Obayashi said, adding that police often don't have time to react and set up a perimeter. "The lag time is such that that gives the suspects enough time to disappear," he said.

Still, Acevedo said there's a good chance police will be able to catch up with the suspects, even days later.

"There's so much technology out there that's capturing information that hopefully they'll be able to find them," he said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
GARFIELD COUNTY, Colo. (KREX)  At approximately 1 p.m., the Garfield County Sheriffs Office updated the evacuations in the county from the Lee Fire due to the southern edge reaching the county line.

Map of the Lee and Elk Fires as of Wednesday. (Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3/ Courtesy)

The evacuations follow a Ready, Set, Go format, in which individuals must leave their area if it reaches a GO status. The updated evacuation and pre-evacuation orders in Garfield County include:

Zone 81 is now in a GO status

Zone 85 is in SET status

Zone 84 is in a READY status

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Earlier this week, Garfield County released evacuation orders for Zone 70 and the Rifle Correctional Facility evacuated its inmates and staff.

Zones 81 and 85 are located within the BLM area, which has already been closed, and are situated on top of the Roan Plateau in an industrial landscape.

People can visit the interactive map for updated evacuation orders in the Garfield and Rio Blanco Counties.

Road closures remain as Highway 12 is closed in both directions from Mile Point 4 to Mile Point 39. The county roads that are closed are 5, 22, 23, 33, 40, 45, 47, 49, 63, 66, 67, 117, 127 and 129. County Road 13 is only open to residents who live in the area.

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As of Wednesday, the Lee Fire, which started in Rio Blanco County, has grown up to approximately 123,222 acres and is currently 4% contained. It has become Colorados fifth-largest wildfire in the states history. The Elk Fire, east of the Lee Fire and also in Rio Blanco County, has grown approximately 14,549 acres and is 75% contained. The Elk Fire, east of the Lee Fire and also in Rio Blanco County, has grown approximately 14,549 acres and is 75% contained.

The Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3 will host a Lee Fire Community Meeting on Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Colorado Mountain College, located at 3695 Airport Rd. in Rifle.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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DENVER (KDVR)  Earlier this month, Northglenn Police Department Detective Paul Gesi died after a long and courageous battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the department.

Gesi spent 39 years with the Northglenn Police Department and 41 years as a police officer and his death was announced on Aug. 11 by the department.

My world has drastically changed: Mother shares message for parents after toddler drowns

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His death, a suicide, reflects the silent struggles many first responders face and is a stark reminder of the mental health challenges within law enforcement, the department shared on social media.

The department called Gesi a dedicated homicide detective, who spent decades fighting for justice.

His tenacity and commitment were unparalleled, and his work left an indelible mark on our department and the entire city, the police department wrote on social media.

The agency shared that Gesi also taught at the Citizens Police Academy, spoke with students in area schools and prioritized connecting with others.

Northglenn Police Department Detective Paul Gesi died after losing his battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. (Courtesy the Northglenn Police Department) Northglenn Police Department Detective Paul Gesi died after losing his battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. (Courtesy the Northglenn Police Department) Northglenn Police Department Detective Paul Gesi died after losing his battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. (Courtesy the Northglenn Police Department) Northglenn Police Department Detective Paul Gesi died after losing his battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. (Courtesy the Northglenn Police Department)

He was also a strong man of God who loved Jesus and was an amazing single father to his six children, the police department said. Pauls impact was felt far beyond our department, and his absence leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him.

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On Monday, the department said the family wished to hold a public service to honor Gesis life.

On Tuesday, the department invited the community to help honor Gesis life of service with a public service to be held on Tuesday, Aug. 19, at Brave Church, 3800 E. Hampden Ave. The event is slated to begin at 10 a.m. and organizers are asking interested individuals to arrive early.

Caring adults, furry friends help Colorado kids cope with loss at annual grief camp

The family has also approved a single donation site in Gesis honor, and the police department vowed that every cent donated will go directly to the family. The donation site can be found here.

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Paul was deeply committed to Northglenn, teaching in our schools, helping with our Citizens Police Academy, and building strong connections throughout the community. We welcome all whose lives he touched to come together in his memory, the department shared.

There are resources available for individuals struggling with mental health, and resources intended for law enforcement officers struggling with their mental health. CopLine, a confidential 24-hour hotline for law enforcement, is staffed by retired law enforcement officers and offers support at 1-800-267-5463.



Find mental health resources in Colorado.

If you are thinking of hurting or killing yourself:

Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Please get help immediately.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Parents of three Williamson County Schools students are suing the district after they say their seventh grade daughters were made uncomfortable because a "biological male" student who identifies as female was allowed in an all-girls sex-education class.

The parents argue the action goes against a Tennessee state law that defines a person's sex based on their anatomy at the time of birth. The parents are represented by Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Franklin, who wrote that statute. Bulso is running for the U.S. House of Representatives.

An advocate for the transgender community expressed concern over how the lawsuit may be affecting the student at the center of the case.

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From May 15-16, Legacy Middle School in Franklin hosted a "Family Life" course. The required two-day course discussed sex education along with an in-depth conversation about the reproductive system.

The students' parents allege that Legacy Middle Principal Alicia Justice said in an April 11 email that, Students will be separated by gender for the lessons.

On May 15, the seventh grade girls class allowed a student who identifies as a female to join in their discussion. The lawsuit says the student is a "biological boy."

As a result, the daughters of each of the plaintiffs complained to their parents and said they did not want to participate if the student was allowed in the classroom, the lawsuit states.

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The mother of one student expressed her concern in an email to Justice the night of May 15, the lawsuit states, noting that she asked Justice to clarify if there will be "male adults or students in the room" during the discussion the following day.

"My daughter [redacted] will be opted out should anyone but biological female students be in the room," the mother wrote, according to the lawsuit.

Justice responded early the next morning, saying, in part:

We do have another family life curriculum day today for our state curriculum. You may opt [redacted] out if you choose to do so," the lawsuit states. "Please contact the counseling department if needed. Thank you and have a good day.

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The parents say 13 girls opted out of the class the next day.

They argue that school officials are not at liberty to allow a "boy who 'identifies' as a girl to participate as a girl in Family Life curricula where boys and girls are separated."

The parents also allege near the end of the lawsuit that Legacy Middle School has allowed "a member of the opposite sex, a boy, to use multi-occupancy girls restrooms at Legacy." Tennessee law allows people to sue a public school if they encounter a person of the opposite sex in a multi-occupancy restroom at the school.

The Williamson County School District said it does not comment on pending litigation.

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Dahron Anneliese Johnson, state community education and outreach co-chair for LGBTQ advocacy group the Tennessee Equality Project, said it appears the student at the center of the case was trying to best navigate their school day "in a way that felt safe and healthy for them."

Is the child at the center of this OK?" Johnson said. "Thats deeply concerning to me, and I wish more people would be asking that question.

Bulso said his interest as an attorney is to look after the interests of the parents.

"These parents, all six of them, are concerned about the interests and the best interests of their daughters," he said. "And they have both the law, and logic and common sense on their side."

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Johnson said the students' discomfort could have been handled through an open discussion.

What a perfect opportunity this could have presented for an open discussion about these very concepts that would help everybody feel involved? Johnson said.

This is not the first time Bulso has brought hot-button political issues to court in Franklin. In 2023, Bulso represented a group of parents suing Williamson County Schools to remove five books from school libraries because they "create pornographic images" inappropriate for students.

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: Parents sue Williamson County Schools over trans student in sex-ed
As the Maryland Public Service Commission seeks public comments on an energy companys application schedule to construct a transmission line, the company and landowners across three counties remain in a contentious legal battle over property access.

The New Jersey-based energy company, Public Service Enterprise Group, applied for a certificate of public convenience and necessity, which would authorize it to construct the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project.

The project is a proposed 500,000-volt transmission line that would run for 67 miles through northern Baltimore County, central Carroll County and southern Frederick County, cutting through hundreds of private properties.

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To complete its application, PSEG needs to complete field studies to assess the projects environmental and socioeconomic impact.

While some property owners have granted the company voluntary access to their land, hundreds of opponents of the project who live across the proposed route have refused to grant the company access to conduct these studies  so PSEG took them to court.

The company is conducting land surveys on select properties for which it was granted temporary access through a court ruling earlier this summer, according to a statement PSEG spokesperson Bill Smith emailed on Tuesday.

Landowners appealed this ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. They also filed a motion to expedite the appeal and requested a stay of the order until a decision was made on the appeal.

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The court denied these motions on Thursday, which means the ruling is still in effect. The court will proceed to consider the appeal with briefs from the parties due in September.

Even with that decision, this appeal remains important, Joanne Frederick, the president of the nonprofit group Stop MPRP, wrote in an email statement Tuesday. The District Courts decision has far-reaching implications for not only the MPRP but also for similar projects in the future, both in Maryland and beyond.

PSEG is awaiting a decision on a separate lawsuit filed in July in the U.S. District Court of Maryland, seeking temporary access to another 149 properties, mostly in Frederick County.

Attorneys for the property owners filed motions last week to dismiss the suit, oppose PSEGs motion for a preliminary injunction and defer the courts decision on the injunction until it rules on the dismissal.

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They argue PSEG does not have the power of eminent domain.

This filing represents an important step in defending landowners rights and pushing back against premature access requests from PSEG, Stop MPRP wrote in a press release sent Friday.

PSEG did not comment on this case due to the ongoing litigation, Smith said.

Eminent domain gives the government the power to acquire private property for public use.

In the ruling that granted the company temporary access to properties, U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson wrote that the relief PSEG sought from the court is narrow and temporary.

The company can only be granted the right of eminent domain if it receives approval from the Public Service Commission for its certificate of public convenience and necessity.

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At the same time, the commission is accepting public comments regarding its proposed procedural schedule for PSEGs certificate application.

The proposed schedule would run through this fall, with the target date for the commissions final ruling on the application on March 26, 2027.

This comes after PSEG, the state Power Plant Research Program and the commission held multiple meetings where no consensus was reached on the schedule.

In a statement submitted to the commission on Thursday, the energy company said it cannot agree to the proposed schedule because it would make it impossible to meet the required in-service date for the transmission line.

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PSEG has a contract with PJM Interconnection, a regional transmission organization, to build the line and begin operations by June 1, 2027.

PJM set the in-service date to prevent severe and widespread reliability violations from occurring on the regional transmission system serving Maryland and surrounding states, PSEGs statement said. If left unaddressed, those violations risk voltage collapse and blackouts as soon as the 2027 summer peak season.

The energy company asked the commission in its statement to adopt a schedule closer to what it had proposed  which had the target date for the final ruling on the application in March 2026.

In the commissions schedule, PSEG would submit the necessary field studies by March 2026, then direct testimonies would be due six months later ahead of public hearings.

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PSEG argues the commission should advance the application proceedings before the company completes and submits all field studies.

Importantly, the Commissions evaluation of an essential piece of public energy infrastructure  like the MPRP  should not be indefinitely delayed by when field level data becomes available, the companys statement said. Instead, the Commission can and should require any remaining field surveys to be completed as a condition to a CPCN order.

As of Tuesday afternoon, more than 25 public comments had been submitted regarding the proposed schedule.

As the state continues to work towards its climate, environmental justice, and sustainability goals, its regulators must ensure that large infrastructure projects like the MPRP take the least harmful form possible, and that environmental damages are fully mitigated, Allison Colden, the Maryland Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, wrote to the commission.

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The costs of poor planning by PSEG, PJM, and other entities should not be borne by landowners who find themselves in the path and are now scrambling to catch up and provide a counter argument with little time to prepare, a Taneytown residents comment said.

The people, environment, and economy of Maryland deserve a process that matches the unprecedented scale and impact of this project  not one dictated by corporate timelines, a Hampstead resident wrote.

The commission is accepting public input on the schedule until Thursday.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  A legal battle is playing out in Mexico over a well-known immigration activist and lawyer who was arrested earlier this month for alleged human trafficking and then ordered released by a judge in a case that underscored the conflicted stands on protecting migrants among Mexican officials.

On Tuesday, Mexico's Attorney Generals Office announced it will appeal the decision from the previous day to release Luis Garcia Villagran, who has helped organize migrant caravans that travel north from southern Mexico.

When Garcia Villagran was released from detention on Monday, Judge Jonathan Izquierdo in Tapachula, a city in the state of Chiapas on Mexico's border with Guatemala, said authorities did not have enough evidence to prosecute him for human trafficking.

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I had never seen anything like it, Attorney General Alejandro Gertz Manero said during the president's news briefing Tuesday. The judge ignored a multitude of presented evidence and claiming that because he was dedicated to protecting migrant groups, he was releasing" the suspect.

Gertz Manero added that his office would appeal but did not elaborate.

After his release, Garcia Villagran told reporters the judge ordered my release because he said that we do not belong to organized crime" but rather to the activist group Centro de Dignificacion Humana AC, dedicated to protecting the rights of migrants and recognized by the Ministry of the Interior.

The activist-lawyer, who often accompanies migrant caravans, claimed that his arrest amounted to persecution by Mexican federal authorities for his activism.

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Such caravans have been criticized by authorities, and are regularly blocked by law enforcement, but have been used as a mechanism for migrants to travel safely through an area that has largely been considered the most dangerous stretch of the journey to the United States.

President Claudia Sheinbaum and her predecessor President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador have both emphasized the need to protect migrants, but under pressure from the United States have deployed immigration agents and the National Guard to try to keep migrants from reaching the U.S. border. There have long been accusations that smugglers take advantage of the caravans to move people north.

When he was arrested last week, Garcia Villagran was helping organize a new caravan of up to 300 people that was to leave Tapachula. The march began its walk toward central Mexico and has so far advanced only a few miles (kilometers).

Authorities say Garcia Villagran had been wanted for years and that his arrest followed a series of investigations that identified a network of human traffickers using various migrant support organizations as a front for human trafficking and drug distribution in Mexico.

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Garcia Villagran was identified as the person in charge of obtaining false documentation" for the passage of migrants through Mexico, in addition to operating as one of the main promoters of migrant caravans and having an outstanding arrest warrant.

His arrest even drew comments from Sheinbaum who said during her daily news briefing on Wednesday that he was not an activist but was tied to trafficking people  and that is the crime.
The White House has ordered a sweeping review of Smithsonian museum exhibits ahead of Americas 250th anniversary, directing curators to replace divisive language with content that aligns with President Trumps view of history. On Morning Joe, Jonathan Lemire called the move really dangerous, warning that rewriting history to fit one presidents vision is not what a healthy democracy does.
As LGBTQ+ community celebrates Pride, advocates push against anti-trans policies

This weekend, thousands of members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies will flock to Uptown Charlotte for the annual Pride celebration -- while many are celebrating, some are viewing this years Pride as more of a protest.

We introduced you to Shenna a few years back, and she offered a look into her familys life raising a transgender girl in North Carolina.

PREVIOUS STORY >> Faces of Pride: A Mother's Letter

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At seven years old, she was able to articulate this, but she made it clear to us that she was a girl and she needed to live as a girl," Shenna told Channel 9s Hunter Saenz.

Her daughter is now 11, and Shenna says she is thriving.

She just finished elementary school, shes heading off to middle school in a couple of weeks, Shenna said.

She knows her daughter is a lucky one, with a supportive family and accepting friends. But Shenna knows that can be unique.

Just letting her be who she is is one of the best parenting moves that weve done, she said.

Sarah Mikhail, the CEO at Time Out Youth, agrees. She runs the community center, which offers a lifeline of support to LGBTQ youth in Charlotte, including transgender kids, teens, and young adults.

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What is it like being a transgender person in America right now? Saenz asked.

It is living despite what the social climate is right now that is trying really hard to tell trans young people that they should not exist or that they dont exist, Mikhail said.

Mikhail says because of recent state and federal policies against the trans community, Time Out Youth has put more young trans people in the hospital in the last six months for suicidal ideation than they have in her entire four years at the center.

I dont care who you are, we should all agree that young people should live, that they should want to live, no matter your politics, no matter your faith, no matter what you do on Sundays, you should care that young people dont want to live because were making it so difficult for them to live, Mikhail said.

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One of the most notable policies is a recent ban on gender-affirming care for minors in North Carolina. Mikhail says its critical.

[It] will have life or death impacts. If you cannot align with who you are, legally, medically, then many people will feel like, whats the point? Mikhail said.

Shenna knows her daughter is fortunate. They travel out of state for her gender-affirming care. But as a parent, shes still anxious about the future unknowns.

What keeps us up at night is just seeing the federal pressure thats being enacted even in states where gender-affirming health care is still legal, Shenna said.

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So she and many others in Charlotte this weekend will celebrate as they continue to fight for and amplify the voices of the trans community.

Our young people need us to not give up, Mikhail said.

(VIDEO: GOP overrides governors vetoes of 2 bills concerning transgender rights in NC)
A team from the U.S. Library of Congress was in Muskogee this week for prep work.

Jaime Mears, the LOC's senior innovation specialist, is heading a project to make a three-dimensional model of the Muskogee Public Library's Grant Foreman room to use for an urban/rural interactive initiative.

Mears said excitement for the project is still hard for her to contain.

"This was multiple people's ideas; it certainly wasn't just mine," Mears said. "We created this idea from hearing feedback from other colleagues around the library, too. It's very in line with our strategic plan as an organization. It's not that easy; it's not a singular person's idea."

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The LOC team spent part of Tuesday morning at the Rieger Memorial Library, meeting with branch managers getting their feedback on the project.

"We heard a lot about all the programming," said Laurie Allen, chief of innovation division at the LOC. "This afternoon, Angeline [Meitzler] is going to do a 3D capture of the room, basically taking pictures of the whole room so we can build a 3D model of it."

Meitzler said the image created can sometimes be "pretty cool."

"The only interesting thing right now will be on the screen," Meitzler said.

The Muskogee project is one of only two in the United States with which the Library of Congress is involved. The other is in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Mears said the project, for her, is a dream.

"I came from public libraries before I worked at the Library of Congress," Mears said. "Our colleague, Brian [Foo], used to work at New York Public Library; I worked at D.C. Public Library. So we've loved public libraries from the beginning."

Mears said the most exciting thing about the project is the networking.

"There are over 17,000 public libraries in the U.S.," she said. "Laurie found out there are more public libraries in the United States than there are McDonald's in the country."

Allen said the key point is the prototype of the room.

"When Angeline and our other developers are creating prototypes for the space, we have a picture of this room," Allen said. "We might take some measurements of other spaces in the library as well. We're not totally settled on this room; it's probably the room that we'll use."
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  LifeWise Academy started in just a handful of schools about seven years ago; this year, it will be in more than 1,000 schools in 34 states. That growth hasnt come without controversy.

We welcome the scrutiny, LifeWise Founder and CEO Joe Penton said. We welcome the microscope, the spotlight. We are, we want to maintain the highest standards of excellence.

Inside the growth and legality of LifeWise Academy

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LifeWise Academy is largely funded through millions of dollars in donations. It uses a release time religious instruction Supreme Court ruling to avoid infringement on the separation of church and state.

Congress shall make no law establishing religion, Capital Law professor Dan Kobil said. That was interpreted by the US Supreme Court about 80 years ago as meaning that not just Congress, but also states could not establish religion.

Kobil explained that a public school teaching the Bible would be considered establishing religion. Penton saw an opportunity to teach the Bible to public school students, during the school day, but off school grounds.

IRS filings show the rapid growth of LifeWise. In 2019, it claimed just more than $1.6 million in revenue. That number ballooned to more than $35 million in 2024.

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We do not invest a lot into marketing, Penton said. I mean, we have some marketing, but more often than not, people hear about it. They hear about it because the neighboring school district has a LifeWise, or because their relative has a LifeWise, or they see it, someone posting about it on Facebook.

Columbus woman told police her boyfriend intended to kill Lancaster man

That money comes mostly from donations, program fees, and grants, although LifeWise did claim almost $900,000 in investment income in 2024. Many contributions are made through foundations categorized as Donor Advised Funds, or DAFs. These types of foundations allow donors to anonymously contribute money to the fund and direct it to an organization of their choosing.

Penton responded to a question about donations by saying, We try to honor the privacy of our donors. I mean, we are like any nonprofit. We report out what we are required to report out, and many donors give through donor-advised funds. So youll see that we received donations through the National Christian Foundation, through the American Endowment Foundation, and through other entities like that, and thats one of the decisions donors make sometimes, is to have these donor-advised funds with these larger foundations.

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Penton said each program needs between $30,000-$40,000 a year to operate.

Our programs typically pay about 9% in administrative fees, he said. As of right now, that does not even come close to covering what it costs the central what we call our support center, to serve our communities. We do a lot of central fundraising to make up the difference. But were on a plan that at scale, it will be sustainable.

The LifeWise Handbook clearly states it is not a political organization, but its worldview statement is clear on the issues of sexuality & gender and abortion, both polarizing political issues. Penton also appeared on a podcast with the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think-tank behind Project 2025, its plan for government overhaul.

Pickerington school bus transportation in limbo

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Ive been interviewed by the Heritage Foundation, Penton said. Ive been interviewed by a variety of podcasts. So Im going pretty much any podcast that wants to give a platform to tell their audience about LifeWise Academy.

NBC4s Kyle Beachy sat down with Penton for a lengthy interview. Some of that interview can be found here, but the rest is transcribed in the following:

Beachy: How much money does it take to kickstart a program in a community?

Penton: Well, we invest quite a bit of manpower and thats paid staff to help communities and give them the tools and walk them through it. But for a local community, they just raise whatever theyre going to spend in their local community. So they likely hire a part time director. Once they get started, they hire part time teachers. They, they might have a bus, on average, $30,000 to $40,000 per school building to service school for a full year.

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Beachy: Are you, are you lobbying senators, state senators and state representatives?

Penton: We spend a certain amount of funds on lobbyists, whether thats at the federal level or a few different states. Its important to us to advocate for policies that make release time available to as many families as possible. Its, you know, life wise, is really started to remove barriers.

Often times one of the biggest barriers is state legislation. And so we take the responsibility to advocate for policies that open up the practice.

Beachy: Do you see involvement in politics more in the future of likewise?

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Penton: I think only as far as advocating for policies that make release time accessible to all families. We are not a political organization. We dont endorse political candidates or political parties, but we do advocate for policies. And we will, I imagine that will always be a small part of what we do. And its currently a very small part, but an important part.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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, Ohio (WCMH)  Overnight storms Wednesday in Columbus brought heavy rain and lots of lightning and one of those lightning strikes started a large fire on the far north side.

Columbus, church clash over high water bill

Columbus fire crews were sent to the The Avenue at Polaris Apartments just after 12:45 a.m. on reports of a large fire on Indianapolis Drive. A portion of the roof of the complex was fully engulfed in flames and has been damaged from the outside. A fire lieutenant confirmed that the cause of the fire was a lightning strike.

Crews were able to get the fire out but three firefighters were taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion. They are all in good condition, per Columbus fire. Around 50 residents were displaced from the apartment complex because of the fire.

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Residents of the complex told NBC4 that smoke alarms did not go off and they were only aware there was a fire by seeing trucks outside and smelling smoke. Columbus fire lieutenant Nicholas Davis said they will look into the building code but that occurrence is possible depending on when the complex was built.

If it was on the second floor, and the fire was above the smoke detectors, they probably werent able to detect the smoke, but our investigators are going to look at that, look at the code, said Lt. Davis.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Calling Jianqin Zhang a prostitute or sex worker is not accurate, Assistant Dakota County Attorney Kelly Rodgers told a judge Wednesday.

Zhang, 53, was a victim of sex trafficking, which ultimately ended her life in an Eagan hotel room nearly two years ago, Rodgers said, adding she was also a wife, mother and new grandmother.

In April, Philip Jedidiah Wong, 27, of Little Canada, pleaded guilty to strangling Zhang at Microtel Inn & Suites in October 2023 after paying her for sex.

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Dakota County District Judge Tanya OBrien sentenced him Wednesday to 20 years in prison for second-degree intentional murder, the maximum term allowed under a plea agreement he had reached with the prosecution.

Zhang came to the U.S. from Shanghai, China, and was working for an organization that shipped her across the country to different hotel rooms in Minnesota, Rodgers told the judge in the states sentencing argument.

The state doesnt believe that this was a free choice, and that when the defendant walked into that room that day, she was already vulnerable and she was already being victimized, Rodgers said.

Zhangs husband gave a victim impact statement through Zoom from China, saying through an interpreter that she will never get to see her grandson grow up, witness their son become a father and be proud of his accomplishments. He asked that Wong get the maximum sentence, adding: A person like this, a murderer like this, should not get to enjoy a life with family in his community, either.

He forgot his hat

According to the criminal complaint:

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A housekeeper and Zhangs friend discovered her dead at the hotel, located east of Interstate 35E and west of Lexington Avenue, on Oct. 12, 2023.

Video surveillance showed Wong entering the hotel around 2:54 p.m. wearing an Atlanta Falcons hat, and leaving about an hour later.

Zhang was the only registered guest of the room, which she had reserved from Sept. 30 to Oct. 14. After a search warrant was executed on the room, police found several cellphones, used and unused condoms, a locked wallet, bloody sheets, pill bottles, food, clothing and an Atlanta Falcons hat.

Police searched Wongs apartment and found clothing that appeared to match what he was seen wearing on video surveillance. His cellphone was also seized.

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Wong gave a statement to police, telling them he responded to an online ad for a massage and cuddle. He said he met Zhang in her room, paying her $200 for a massage, then another $50 for sex. He said he took a shower before leaving. He realized on his way home that he forgot his hat, but did not go back for it.

Wongs roommate then told police that he had told her Zhang said she had a hidden camera in the room and wanted more money from him. In response, (Wong) choked her out, but he believed she was still breathing, the complaint states. (Wong) then searched the room for the hidden camera, and left when (the victims) phone rang.

In a follow-up interview with police, Wong said he didnt have anything to add to his earlier statement.

Terrifying version of events

Wongs attorney, Adam Johnson, asked the judge on Wednesday to give him to a 15-year prison term, which wouldve been the bottom of the sentencing range allowed under the plea deal.

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Johnson gave some insight into Wongs background. The youngest of seven siblings, he was homeschooled by his mother, attended Anoka-Ramsey Community College and later Minnesota State in Mankato, where he graduated with a bachelors degree in geology. He was in the Army Reserves from 2016 to 2022, when he was honorably discharged, and was working full time at the time of the killing.

This is not a man lacking in shame and contrition, Johnson said. Hes also not lacking in hope that he may someday restore himself to the path he was on.

Rodgers, the county prosecutor, painted a different picture of Wong, noting that he had entered an Alford plea on the element of intent, meaning he maintained innocence while acknowledging the state likely had enough evidence to convict him. He didnt want to take responsibility for it, Rodgers said.

At his plea hearing, she said, he gave a terrifying version of events of the killing, telling the court how he choked her for approximately two minutes, and that she was fighting back.

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Rodgers said that Wong, during a psychological evaluation while in custody, denied having problems controlling his anger and said hes never been verbally abusive, threatening or violent when angry. Strangling someone to death is a violent act. It requires rage, she said.

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According to Rodgers, it wasnt Wong who created that narrative that Zhang blackmailed him, but investigators, during his interview five days after the killing. She said they asked Wong specifically if there was some sort of reasonable reason why something happened, like if she blackmailed him and then there were cameras. It then became his story, she added.

Wong apologized to Zhangs husband and their family before hearing his sentence, adding: I truly did not want this to happen. It did. And I cant undo that.

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Judge OBrien said she didnt sense remorse in his voice, that its robotic.

She said reading character letters that his mother and father submitted to the court was shocking to me, because they appear to be such warm, caring humans. And this act takes this woman from her family, and your mom and dad have lost a son, and your siblings have lost a brother. There are literally no winners here.
ROGERS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The Senate and House City, County, & Local Affairs Committee met jointly at the Rogers Convention Center to discuss the controversial prison planned for Franklin County.

The proposed prison has stirred controversy among the people of Charleston, where the prison is planned to be built. Residents say they dont like the risk of inmates escaping near the city and are concerned it would bring down the property value of their homes.

The Chickamauga Nation also says the proposed prison site may contain culturally significant burial grounds.

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Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders wrote an op-ed urging legislators to fund the prison, declaring that enough is enough when it comes to Arkansas prison bed shortages and high crime rates.

Sanders wrote that Arkansas has gone two decades without significant investments in its prison system, adding that this has led to chronic prison bed shortages, releasing violent offenders back into society because of lack of space and worst-in-the-nation crime rates.

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Families from across the country travel hundreds and even thousands of miles to Greene County to meet their service dogs at 4 Paws for Ability in Xenia.

The Recer family traveled six hours from St. Louis, Missouri, to meet their new service dog, Kenny, after waiting two and a half years.

The reason we started this journey is Benton was having, hes autistic and epileptic, and he was having tons and tons and tons of seizures, and also eloping, said Suzanne Recer, Bentons mother.

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Kalynn Clark, the Development Director at 4 Paws, explained that it takes two years to breed, raise, and train a service dog, with about $40,000 invested in each dog.

Families fundraise for half of the cost, while 4 Paws covers the rest.

Currently, 4 Paws has about 200 kids on the waitlist for service dogs.

Clark emphasized the importance of volunteers who help take care of the dogs at the facility, foster them, and train them until they are ready to meet their forever families.

It just brings you so much joy and purpose to know that what were doing here is truly making an impact to help others, Clark said.

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The families will spend the next ten days working with their trainers to learn all about their brand-new service dogs.

Suzanne Recer expressed her hopes for Kenny to not only keep an eye on Benton but also to become his best friend.Its an emotional rollercoaster, most definitely excited, excited nerves to learn, but excited nerves teaching both of them to love each other, she said.

The event at 4 Paws for Ability highlights the significant impact service dogs have on families, providing both companionship and support for children with special needs.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Its time for parents to listen up!

A local doctor says hear screenings are critical to ensure students has access to sound, an important part of the education process.

Dr. Katy Mawson, clinic director & clinical audiologist at Pacific University, joined AM Extras Back to School Week to give some advice for parents of children heading back to class soon.

Watch the full video in the player above.

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ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) The first day of school is certainly one of the highlights of the year, especially for staff. However, one of the critical behind-the-scenes processes is hiring new people, and that can be time-consuming.

As of August 1st, Roanoke City still needs to fill 19 positions for its schools. It is also in a unique predicament with its school nurses. Carilion Clinic previously provided the city with nurses, but that deal is nearing its end.

School districts urge caution on the roadways as school buses roll out

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Were still working on that because Carilion still has six months, because they extended it six months, Dominick McKee, Roanoke City Public Schools chief human resources officer, said. We have an applicant poll out there, and we actually have more applicants than we have positions, so were in pretty good shape.

Meanwhile, its been a busy summer in Campbell County. Its welcoming 85 new teachers.

It is still looking for about five more, mainly in special education.

We just want someone who is passionate about teaching, passionate about working with students, and has a strong work ethic, Campbell County assistant superintendent Amy Hale said. We always say when you arrive at Campbell, we want you to stay with us.

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Some other school districts need more bus drivers. Franklin County Public Schools said it needs seven to nine spots to cover all the bus routes.

Transportation supervisor Jeff Hodges said thats a big issue because it means they have to look elsewhere to cover those routes.

We have to pull our mechanics out of the garage, and we have everyone in our office, including myself, that has a (Commercial Drivers License), Hodges said. Most days last year, we had someone driving out of our office and out of the garage, and some days we had everyone except for me on a bus route.

Some districts like Roanoke County Public Schools may already be fully staffed, but is in need of more substitute teachers.

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The school systems are often flexible with work schedules, because substitutes can be very important when the time is right.

We do have times where we have teachers that are out for professional development or other things like that, or of course, they just get sick, Roanoke County Public Schools community relations director Chuck Lionberger said. We do have times where our teachers will get sick or our bus drivers will get sick. So, we need folks to help and step in and take over those critical positions.

Elsewhere in central and southwestern Virginia, the cities of Salem, Martinsville and Galax, along with the counties of Botetourt, Pulaski, Carroll, Grayson and Amherst, are fully staffed or near fully staffed.

Floyd County is still searching for a behavior specialist and speech-language pathologist. As of July 30th, Henry County still needs nine teachers and 10 bus drivers.

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MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD)  The Town of Mount Pleasant celebrated Tuesday the completion of a project meant to revitalize the shrimping industry on Shem Creek.

Town officials said the shrimp dock and processing facility renovations have been several years in the making starting 2019, when the town purchased the property.

It had been dilapidated and several structures were condemned while staff made temporary and emergency repairs. However, in 2023, the mayor and council reaffirmed their commitment by making it a priority project and dedicated around $3 million to the renovations.

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The dock is beautiful, clearly, and it has good power, good water, said Cindy Tarvin, owner of Tarvin Seafood.

The upgrades include a widened boardwalk and pier, new electrical systems, and a revitalized processing facility with a stronger structural design.

The town also worked with Cape Romain Contractors, who also worked on Shem Creek Park, along with subcontractors on this project. The renovated processing facility is connected to Tarvin Seafood, who also pitched in on the design. Town officials said they were glad to work on this project as it supports the legacy and tradition of shrimping.

It means the world because that is part of Mount Pleasants history, as part of who Mount Pleasant is, and its part of the history of Shem Creek, Kevin Mitchell, deputy director of engineering development services, said. We would have really missed a great opportunity had we not have acted and secured this area, preserved it for the shrimping industry, and supporting the shrimping business for the foreseeable future.

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Although, not all the equipment has been moved in yet, the processing facility will provide a loading dock and ice machine for shrimpers. The location is expected to allow for any fleet to offload and sell their product, if they choose.

It becomes a return to its former self. I mean it was always a processing facility for shrimpers and fishermen, and thats what it will be again. The dock is the first step and its great. Shrimpers and fishermen that come here, they cant believe how beautiful this facility is, said Tarvin.

Officials said they believe with these renovations, it will revitalize the fishing industry as they have remained an important part of the community for many years.

We are one of the very few left between the North Carolina border and the Georgia border. So, its important at a number of levels, regionally and locally, Tarvin said.

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Officials encourage buying local to seafood to ensure the tradition survives.

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COURTLAND, Ala. (WHNT)  A major American defense contractor is expanding its operations in North Alabama by bringing another large facility to a small town in Lawrence County.

Lockheed Martin told News 19 that a new 88,000 square-foot Missile Assembly Building is currently under construction in Courtland. The new building is expected to open early 2026, the company said.

Lockheed Martin said the spacious building will help advance defense systems in Courtland.

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The building is being built for the Next Generation Interceptor program. Lockheed Martins website says with the NGI program, the mission is to develop, produce and deliver a modern, never-fail weapon against increasing and evolving ballistic missile threats from rogue nations. NGI is a first line of defense, tip-to-tail interceptor within the Missile Defense Agencys Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system.

The company said Courtland currently supports critical defense programs for the Army, Navy and Missile Defense Agency. Over 400 employees currently work at the Courtland site, and Lockheed said it expects an increase in workforce in 2026 following the opening of the new building.

Were not just working on defense programs. Were defining what the future of missile defense looks like, Lockheed Martin said.

The company has a long-standing relationship with the town of Courtland. In 2019, the company announced that it would have a Hypersonic Strike Work manufacturing plant with two new buildings. The Aerospace and Defense company broke ground at the site in September 2019 and it was officially opened on October 4, 2021.

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The milestone of opening this building established northern Alabama as the Home of Hypersonic Strike Production, Lockheed Martin said.

In 2023, Lockheed Martin developed a partnership with the town of Courtland and helped convert its part-time fire department into a full-time, 24/7 emergency service with new equipment and staffing.

Through a partnership with the State of Alabama, Lockheed Martin said it received a $1.8 million infrastructure grant to improve roads around the 88,000 square-foot facility.

Lockheed Martin is building advanced defense systems in Courtland, but more importantly, we are investing in the future of the community. From workforce development and infrastructure upgrades to enhanced emergency services, our commitment extends beyond our facility. Real progress happens when industry and community grow together, and we are proud to help build a stronger, more resilient future for Courtland and the surrounding region. Sarah Reeves

Vice President, Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) Program

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LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP)  A middle school librarian for the Longmeadow Public Schools was arrested for allegedly distributing child sexual abuse material.

The U.S. Attorneys Office in Massachusetts announced that the arrest of 55-year-old Scott McGinley of Holyoke was made on Wednesday by the FBI following a search of his home. McGinley is the librarian for Williams Middle School and Glenbrook Middle School in Longmeadow.

According to the criminal complaint obtained by 22News, on August 7, FBI Nashville notified the Springfield FBI headquarters about a potential distributor of child pornography. FBI Nashville stated that in July, an undercover FBI employee in Tennessee was conducting an online investigation using an encrypted messenger app.

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The U.S. Attorneys Office says that at that time, McGinley allegedly distributed CSAM to a group called Little boyz only on the encrypted messenger app. McGinley allegedly disclosed his sexual preference for boys age 2-12 and especially 4-7, to the undercover agent.

Man convicted in Springfield child abuse case sentenced to prison

In further conversations, he allegedly made graphic sexual statements about students who were boys. He allegedly said he had students who were 11-14 years old but, ha[d]nt touched them sexually, and that he sat hot boys strategically so [he could] see under their desks, and close to [him].

Investigators were able to obtain the IP address of the user and link it to the home of McGinley. A search warrant was conducted on August 8th of McGinleys Holyoke residence. Law enforcement seized various electronic devices from McGinley, including two iPhones, an Apple Watch, a tablet, and two laptops. The FBI also recovered a locked Pelican case from his basement that contained childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream, apple sauce packets, and other items from a locked case stored in the basement. The case also had a toolbox that had boys underwear and bedding inside.

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The criminal complaint states that over 100,000 picture and video files were recovered on the phone and the more than 100 revealed media depicting child sexual abuse. The review of the files is still on-going.

A search of the McGinleys phone revealed over 100 files depicting child sexual abuse material. U.S. Attorneys Office, District of Massachusetts

Drivers license photo of Scott McGinley (U.S. District Court of Massachusetts Criminal Document)

McGinley is charged with one count of distribution of child pornography and is scheduled to be in Springfield Federal court this afternoon. If convicted, he faces at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

Statement from Longmeadow Public Schools

Good Afternoon LPS Community, At my first opportunity, I am writing to share information regarding the arrest of Glenbrook and Williams Middle School Librarian Scott McGinley that will understandably cause serious concern within our school community. I have attached a press release from the United States Attorneys Office for the District of Massachusetts. Mr. McGinley worked at Glenbrook and Williams from August 24, 2016 until August 12, 2025. The press release describes a highly troubling and disturbing criminal matter. Longmeadow Public Schools is cooperating fully and openly with all law enforcement agencies and has been in communication with the MA Department of Children and Families and the Longmeadow Police. This is the first in a series of communications that LPS will issue on this distressing situation. I have asked local law enforcement, representatives of the US Attorneys Office and the FBI to join me and school officials at in-person and remotely accessible informational meetings. Additional details on these events will be forthcoming. Additionally, knowing that there will be a range of emotions in response to this situation, LPS will be assembling school counselors, social workers and administrators to support students and staff who need to talk or process what they are experiencing. Our highest priority is and always will be student safety and well being. LPS has policies and protocols in place to protect students through student education, staff training and the use of background checks and mandatory reporting. At this time, I am sharing all of the information available to me. I understand that you may have questions and concerns. We will continue to communicate as we are able and as information becomes available. Please note, that the press release indicates that members of the public who have questions, concerns or information about this case should contact the U.S. Attorneys office at 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov. I am sorry for sharing this distressing situation with you. We will continue to share information with the LPS community and cooperate openly with law enforcement agencies. Thank you for your partnership and your unwavering commitment to the well being of LPS children. Our community has always shown strength in difficult times. I have no doubt that we will come together now with the same care and resilience to support one another. Sincerely, Marty OShea, Superintendent of Schools

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Longview murder suspect was found and arrested in the Los Angeles area, law enforcement officials said on Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Longview Police Department, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested Alexander Lee Rogers after his BMW was spotted in L.A. on Monday. Rogers is accused of murdering 64-year-old Dawn Peters and attempting to murder 73-year-old Andrew Peters, both of Longview.

Teens cleared in deaths of men who killed each other

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On August 5, police responded to Terumi Lane in Longview, finding two stabbing victims inside a residence. One of the victims, later identified as Dawn, was already dead on arrival, and the second  Andrew  was taken to the hospital with critical injuries.

Witnesses said Rogers fled the scene before police arrived.

However, Longview police later claimed that officers bumped into a person matching the description of the suspect earlier in the day for a traffic stop. That suspect was recorded on the officers body-worn camera. It is through this chance encounter that police identified Rogers since his clothes matched Ring camera footage of the suspect at the home where the stabbing happened shortly after the traffic stop, police said.

Dawn Peters (undated file photo courtesy Steven Butler). Dawn Peters (undated file photo courtesy Steven Butler). Dawn Peters (undated file photo courtesy Steven Butler). Dawn Peters (undated file photo courtesy Steven Butler).

One week after the fatal stabbing, Rogers was taken into custody in L.A.

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Dawns nephew, Steven Butler, told KOIN 6 News he was grateful to all the law enforcement officials up and down the West Coast for arresting the suspect.

She was a wonderful person. To this very second, we dont know what prompted this to happen, said Butler, adding that Dawn had a kind spirit. Everybody loved her. She took care of everybody, and she was a wonderful person.

Butler said Rogers was doing handyman work for Dawn, who was living in the same home with her husband, Dwayne, her father, Richard, and her brother-in-law, Andrew, the latter of whom was also seriously injured, allegedly by Rogers. All four family members were inside the home when the attack occurred, Butler said.

School board member resigns after deadly ATV crash

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Butler said the home had an alarm system, and despite being attacked, Andrew was able to hit a panic button on the wall, alerting police and emergency responders to a medical alert. Andrew, Butlers uncle, is still recovering in the hospital.

Longview police said their detectives have been working directly with the Los Angeles Police Department to coordinate a trip down to California, as soon as Wednesday. In terms of when Rogers might get extradited back to Washington state, there will be more details in the coming days, officials said.

Butler has started a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover the funeral costs for Dawn.

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New York Times Investigative Reporter and MSNBC National Security Contributor Mike Schmidt and Former top official at the DOJ Andrew Weissmann join Nicolle Wallace to discuss the convenient reemergence Donald Trump's first term Russia-gate saga as his administration tries to scrounge up distractions for right wing media.
The Brief

Lori Daybell has filed a notice of appeal for both of her cases in Arizona.

Daybell was found guilty in two trials, one for murder conspiracy in the death of her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, and the second for the attempted murder of her ex-nephew-in-law, Brandon Boudreaux.

PHOENIX - Convicted killer Lori Daybell has filed a notice of appeal for both of her Arizona cases.

"Notice is hereby given that Lori Daybell appeals from the judgment of guilt and sentence in the above-entitled case following a jury trial, which was entered in the Superior Court of Maricopa County on July 25, 2025, by the Honorable Justin Beresky," read documents obtained from Maricopa County Superior Court.

Convicted murderer Lori Daybell has filed a notice of appeal for both Arizona cases, per court records. Waiting on the documents now. She also has a virtual status conference set with Judge Beresky on 9/19 at 9:45 AM regarding restitution for her murder conspiracy convictions. pic.twitter.com/CRIVOUmLAr  Justin Lum |  (@jlumfox10) August 13, 2025

The backstory

The so-called "Doomsday Mom" was found guilty earlier this year in two trials, one for murder conspiracy in the death of her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, and the second for the attempted murder of her ex-nephew-in-law, Brandon Boudreaux.

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In May 2023, Daybell was found guilty of murdering her two children, JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan, while conspiring in the murder of Tammy Daybell  the first wife of Chad Daybell.

The series of killings happened in September and October 2019. Both co-conspirators got married shortly after and now Chad Daybell is on death row after being sentenced last year.

What's next

Daybell has a virtual status conference scheduled for Sept. 19 at 9:45 a.m.
Cathay pursues new SAF partnerships for 2030 goals

The partnership between the Cathay Group and DHL Express aims to reduce carbon emissions within the air cargo sector and actively drive increased SAF production and adoption. Photo: RTHK

The Cathay Group said on Wednesday that it is actively pursuing new partnerships to expand the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across its global network, reaffirming its commitment to decarbonise aviation and achieve its environmental targets.



The company aims to source 10 percent of its total fuel consumption from SAF by 2030, a critical milestone in the group's broader pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.



Demonstrating this strategy, Cathay announced a agreement to supply DHL Express with 2,400 tonnes of SAF, which will be used specifically on international cargo flights operated by Air Hong Kong, Cathay's wholly owned all-cargo subsidiary, departing from Incheon International Airport, Tokyo Narita International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport.



The partnership aims to reduce carbon emissions within the air cargo sector and actively drive increased SAF production and adoption.



"We've been working very hard with different stakeholders because we know that using SAF is not only airlines' efforts, we need policy support [and] we need the supply chain in this part of the world to develop and we need supporting partners and customers that would support the further uplift of SAF so definitely this partnership is an important goal for us to get one step closer to that target," Grace Cheung, general manager of sustainability at Cathay, said.



"We have launched the first major corporate SAF programme in Asia, and we've seen continuous growth and support from different customers, partners that help us with the journey along the way and we'll continue to work with other new initiatives that bring us one step closer at a time to reach that target."



The group said the specific collaboration with DHL Express is projected to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 7,190 tonnes, which is equivalent to the emissions from over 100 Hong Kong-Singapore flights using an Airbus A330 freighter.



Cheung acknowledged the significant cost challenge, noting that SAF is typically three to five times more expensive than conventional jet fuel, but said the group has been leveraging its global network to find the best deals globally.



She said collaborating with like-minded corporate partners like DHL is essential to manage costs and drive decarbonisation throughout the supply chain.



"We believe that for such important change of the use of SAF to support decarbonisation not only for one company, not only for one industry, but actually for the whole economy. We really need some holistic long-term approach and such a policy is very important," she said.



"We need a holistic approach with the support on the supply side, from R&D (research and development) to development of SAF production plants, all the way to the demand side, how to deal with and cope with the SAF green premium that we talked about, what's a holistic structure to have in the SAF market that we can help get it off the ground.



"That would be very important for Hong Kong as it continues its leadership position as an international aviation hub."
Los Angeles city schools are ready with unprecedented protections to keep federal immigration authorities away as students return to the classroom.

School police, other officers and volunteer scouts will patrol some 100 schools that are part of the nations second-largest school system in hopes of keeping the districts 400,000 students  and their families  out of reach from ICE.

"Our young people are going through this unnecessary trauma, which should not interfere with their education, Mayor Karen Bass said.

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Officers, both employed by the schools and surrounding municipalities, will establish safe zones in neighborhoods with a large Latino population, focusing specifically on watching out for older students who walk to class, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Bus routes have also been altered to help immigrant families avoid ICE agents during their commute, officials said.

Additionally, community volunteers will take on the role of scouts, alerting schools to nearby ICE agents so they can take necessary precautions, including potentially locking down the campus.

Los Angeles school students are set to return from summer as district officials prep for ways to protect their campuses from ICE agents and raids. (Getty Images)

The initiatives, a collaboration between city and school officials, come at what Bass described as a profound moment in American history. Other programs the district is taking include coordinating food aid for families in hiding, providing information about online schooling options and distributing a family preparedness guide detailing their rights.

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L.A. schools superintendent Alberto Carvalho, once an undocumented immigrant himself, said the district will oppose any entity, at any level, that seeks to interfere with the educational process of our children.

"We want no one to stay home as a result of fears," Carvalho said.

We are standing on the right side of the Constitution, and years from now, I guarantee you, we will have stood on the right side of history. We know that, he said.

Officials worries are not unfounded. On Monday, a 15-year-old boy with disabilities was handcuffed outside Arleta High School. Federal agents drew their guns on the teen, who was later released after his relatives convinced federal agents he was not who they were looking for.

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A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection told the Times that the school was not being targeted; rather, agents believed they were going after a criminal illegal alien and suspected MS-13 gang member.

Large-scale protests began in Los Angeles this summer after ICE agents raided workplaces in the city. (Anadolu/Getty)

The 2024-2025 school year ended in L.A. as immigration raids targeting workplaces broke out across the city.

The raids left parents scrambling to check apps dedicated to tracking ICE activity during important moments, such as their childrens graduation ceremony, the Los Angeles Times reported at the time.

Agents have also targeted homes with children who attend L.A. County schools. Mary, a mother of three without legal status, said she knew what to do when ICE agents came to her door twice in May because of what she learned from her local public school.

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ICE agents  often dressed in plainclothes and driving unmarked vehicles  raided L.A. County businesses and homes this past June, and were often spotted near schools, too, sparking widespread panic and disruption of daily life.

The raids led to massive protests and prompted President Donald Trump to deploy 700 U.S. Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops to try and bring order to the city. It was the first time the National Guard had been ordered by the president, not the state, since 1965.

That escalation led to over 2,000 No Kings protests against the Trump administrations policies in all 50 states, from California to Maine. The demonstrations coincided with a D.C. parade for the U.S. Armys 250th anniversary, which critics blasted as just an extravagant birthday party for Trump.

While litigation, including a temporary restraining order, appears to have slowed down immigration raids in L.A., local leaders believe they havent stopped completely.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A preliminary assessment released August 11 details how Oregons Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid will be the programs hardest hit by the passage of H.R.1, but the State Library of Oregon also stands to lose a large chunk of its funding.

The state library provides support to other libraries in the state. They answer questions, provide grants and offer statewide services.

Basically we are kind of like librarians for other librarians. said Buzzy Nielsen, program manager for State Library of Oregon.

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Betrayed: Gov. Kotek reacts to projected loss of $15B in federal funding

Twenty-five percent of the state librarys budget is federally funded by the Library Service and Technology Act. The money is known as LTSA funds, and it amounts to about $2.6 million a year, Nielsen said.

Currently, there are no LTSA funds in the 2026 federal budget.

Its really hard to plan if we dont know if we have money. Its really hard to plan if we dont know whether we will have 70% of the staff who work with libraries, Nielsen said.

According to the preliminary impact analysis issued by the governors office, libraries across Oregon will experience increased costs and fewer services. The state library would need to terminate most of its staff, and many services will be canceled beginning June 2026.

Students at two PPS schools received books from the Library of Congress (PPS)

At local libraries throughout the state, the cuts will look different depending on what services each branch utilizes. It could include cuts to subscription databases provided to community college libraries, and decreased grant availability.

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This comes at a time also when locally we have several Oregon governments, universities and colleges that are also having funding issues, Nielsen said. This just adds to that already challenging situation that libraries in Oregon are in.

In Eastern Oregon, courier services risk being cut, which means residents in remote parts of the state will have a harder time accessing library materials.

Programs like the statewide kids reading competition Oregon Battle of the Books, and the Oregon School Library System which teachers kids information literacy skills, are also at risk.

Nielsen said that most of Oregons school libraries are not staffed by certified teacher librarians. Instead, theyre classified staff who may or may not have formal librarian training. In those cases, state library staff work with the schools to ensure their libraries function properly. But without federal funding, they will have fewer staff available to support schools.

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People in a city said they were "very sad" at the loss of a second budget retailer from a shopping area.

Poundland has occupied a unit in the Ortongate Shopping Centre in Peterborough since 2023, after the space was left empty by Wilko.

The store will close on 24 August under restructuring plans.

Kirsty Knight, an Independent councillor for Orton Waterville on Peterborough City Council, said the closure was going to be an "absolute blow" for residents.

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"To have Wilko go, then Poundland come in, then for that to go  the residents are upset and very sad," she told the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

North West Cambridgeshire MP Sam Carling said it was "another reminder of the pressure local centres are under".

Big brands

Knight suggested a supermarket or clothes shop should replace Poundland and that the "wrong shops" were going being opened.

"We had a cosmetic surgery from London in there and that's not Orton," she said. "That didn't last long and it closed."

"There's now a betting shop ready to go in, but we've just lost one.

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"I just feel they're not really listening to the residents, because what's needed is a shop like Aldi or Lidl or a clothes shop."

Julie Stevenson, also an Independent councillor for Orton Waterville on the authority, agreed that a clothes shop would be an appropriate replacement.

"We need to attract some big brands, somehow," she said.

"I know the team at Ortongate work very hard to try and fill all of those units and also open it up to the community as well," she added

Three Poundland stores remain open in Peterborough at the Hereward Cross Shopping Centre, Bretton Centre and Brotherhood Retail Park.

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Darren MacDonald, Poundland's retail director, said closures across the country were "sincerely regrettable" but necessary to secure the future of hundreds of stores and thousands of jobs.

Ortongate Shopping Centre was approached for comment.

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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Patrick Frischhertz, who oversees a sugarcane farming operation in Plaquemine, says he is waiting to see if President Donald Trump's call for Coca-Cola to use cane sugar to sweeten its drinks will lead to greater demand for his crops. (Brooke Thorington/WRKF)

PLAQUEMINE  Its planting season for sugarcane farmers in Louisiana as they replenish fields that are older than three years and no longer yielding as much sugar.

When President Donald Trump said he wanted Coca-Cola to use sugarcane in its signature drink, instead of high-fructose corn syrup, it brought a lot of attention to the industry.

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Patrick Frischhertz is the son-in-law of an eighth generation sugarcane farmer. Hes been in the business for close to 16 years, and he oversees St. Louis Planting in Plaquemine. The company farms sugarcane and soybeans. When Trump boasted hed convinced Coca-Cola to use natural sugar, Frischhertz said it was welcome news.

It seems to be getting everybody talking about sugar cane in Louisiana and our natural product. And as farmers were really appreciative of it, Frischhertz.

Israel Huerta is originally from Mexico, and hes been a U.S. citizen since 2013. Hes worked on the farm in Plaquemine for even longer. He admits hes biased when it comes to comparing the high-fructose corn syrup in Coca-Cola to the one made with sugarcane.

Actually, I think in Mexico they use that already. They use sugarcane and it tastes better. And its, it is more, uh, its not, Im not, Im not gonna say healthy, but its better, you know? Yeah. Its better, Huerta said.

Patrick Frischhertz oversees St. Louis Planting in Plaquemine. The company farms sugarcane and soybeans. (Brooke Thorington/WRKF)

According to the USDA, Florida produces the most sugarcane in the countrymore than 17 million tons annually, followed by Louisiana, which produces 13.8 million tons.

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So if there is an increase in demand, farmers here are likely to see it. Frischhertz was asked if hes noticed this.

 No, no. Our farm has not heard anything from any distributors or beverage manufacturers about trying to increase sugar, by any means, he said. For us, its business as usual and working hard out in the field to produce the best crop that we possibly can.

Coca-Cola has stated they plan to release a line of their signature beverage sweetened with sugarcane in the U.S. this fall.

In the meantime, Frischhertz said hell watch and wait, see if the demand for sugarcane in soft drinks increases, and plant accordingly.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Restrictions are being applied for all cotton harvest equipment traveling into Louisiana to avoid the reintroduction of an invasive pest.

The boll weevil was declared eradicated from Louisiana in 2012. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) said there is a risk for the pest to be reintroduced from equipment traveling through the state as the harvest season starts.

The boll weevil is resilient; we must stay diligent in our efforts to keep them out of Louisiana, said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain. In support of these efforts, our department must be notified once the equipment stops anywhere within the state of Louisiana so that we can review all pertinent documentation and inspect the equipment.

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The state requires a Fumigation Certificate or a USDA PPQ Inspection Form 540 for equipment coming from Texas and a phytosanitary certificate or other official documents for equipment from other states where the boll weevil has been eradicated.

Trumps push for real sugar could boost Louisianas cane industry

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A new initiative is recruiting help from businesses in four cities to remove trash and beautify Louisianas highways through a sponsorship program.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has partnered with Adopt A Highway Maintenance Corporation (AHMC) for a pilot program in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lafayette, and Shreveport.

Litter removal is a costly, ongoing issue in Louisiana, said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet. This partnership helps ease the financial burden on taxpayers while creating a cleaner, more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

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DOTD said the program serves as a sustainable way to offset costs for litter removal. The agency reports that it spent $13.6 million on cleanup efforts in 2024.

The state agency said businesses in each city will sponsor one-mile highway segments, then AHMC will provide services to remove litter for a minimum of six times each year. Sponsorship levels will determine how often services take place.

Information about how businesses can participate in the program will be announced later.

New Orleans trash collectors litigate over removing foul French Quarter odors

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
LOWELL, Mich. (WOOD)  A West Michigan school librarian is suing a parent who she says harassed her for years over the librarys catalog.

The accusations that have been made against me are not even decent. Theyre absolutely horrific things that people have said, Christine Beachler told News 8.

Lowell Area Schools Library Media Director Christine Beachler speaks with News 8.

Beachler, the library media director for Lowell Area Schools, said she has found herself in the national spotlight after Stefanie Boone, a parent of a Lowell student, launched an alleged smear campaign against her.

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Spring Lake board votes to remove book on sexuality from high school library

In her civil lawsuit, Beachler claims Boone has posted countless social media texts and videos over the past five years calling Beachler a smut-peddling media specialist, groomer and pedophile.

Theyre accusing me of criminal activity. Theyre making accusations that I am abusing children. And thats not right, she said.

The alleged attacks started after Boone, a member of the conservative group Moms for Liberty, appealed library books that contained LGBTQ+ themes.

Rather than sexually grooming our children in school, how about we groom them to be upstanding citizens who are accountable, responsible, respectful, Boone said during a board of education meeting last academic year. Gone are the days of denying the existence of sexually explicit material in our schools.

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Local school board races become theater for national culture wars

Inside the Lowell High School library on Aug. 11, 2025.

Beachler told News 8 that the district has more than 75,000 books spread across its six libraries. Of those, only two have been flagged in the past five years for mature content. A special committee and the school board read the two books entirely and opted to retain the titles in the schools collections.

Its important to remember that library books are optional. These are not required materials. These are not curriculum materials, Beachler said.

Additionally, Beachler told News 8 that Lowell Area Schools offers parents an option of restricting specific books and genres their kids can access.

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I understand that they do have the right to control what their children read. But what some of them are forgetting is that they dont have the right to control what other students read, she added.

Group loses bid to ban pornographic books from Rockford Schools

Still, Beachler said the harassment has gotten so bad due to Boones alleged post that she has received death threats.

I have been confronted a few times out in the community and so I really dont go many places in the community anymore, Beachler said.

Beachler is suing Boone for invasion of privacy and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

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News 8 reached out to Boone and her attorney several times requesting an interview, but all requests were denied.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Waiting a month for his insurance company to approve his insulin medication, Timothy Dontigney could not afford to pay for the medication upfront and had to go for a time without it, a dangerous position for someone with diabetes.

The Middletown senior resident living on a fixed income worried about his insulin levels getting out of control, leading to serious health consequences.

I watched what I ate very carefully, he said. I drank a lot of water to flush my system out and made sure my sugar would stay low.

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This is not the first time Dontigney has been forced to lobby for his insurance company to cover his medications, describing it as a constant battle.

But he remains hopeful after Gov. Ned Lamont recently signed what lawmakers referred to as the strongest prescription drug legislation in the country, providing transparency and lowering costs.

David Flaherty, pharmacy manager at Arrow Pharmacy where the legislation was signed on July 30, said a lot of the time insurance companies wont cover drugs because of the prices.

The legislation includes putting a price cap on generic drugs, negotiating bulk prices resulting in lower costs, exploring the idea of the state making its own GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, and seeking federal approval to import prescription drugs from Canada, among other initiatives.

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If there is a capacity to get less expensive drugs from Canada, we would be absolutely in favor of that as long as we can assure that they are as effective and safe as the current drugs that we have, said Flaherty.

Sen Matt Lesser, D-Middletown, co-chair of the Human Services Committee, who sponsored the legislation along with other members of the Bipartisan Drug Task Force including Rep. Jillian Gilchrest, D-West Hartford, Sen. Jeff Gordon, R-Woodstock and Rep. Tracy Marra, R-Darien, said drug prices are simply not sustainable.

We are paying the highest drug prices in the world. Americans cant continue to afford it, he said. They are looking for answers from leaders of all political stripes and it is our job to deliver on that. At a time when Medicaid is getting cut nationally, any money spent on prescription drugs is money we are not spending on caring for the most vulnerable in our state.

Fair dealing

The new law beginning in October also requires pharmacy benefits managers to exercise good faith and fair dealing in performing their contractual duties to health carriers or other health benefit plan sponsors, according to the bills analysis.

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Further, the new law also requires that a PBM must notify the health carrier or plan sponsor, in writing if any of the PBMs activities, policies or practices directly or indirectly present a conflict of interest, the analysis also stated.

Beginning in January the law requires a PBM to offer a health plan the option of being charged the same price for a prescription drug that the PBM pays a pharmacy for the drug, the analysis further states.

Lamont said at the bill signing ceremony that the cost of prescription drugs used to be 10% of health care spending.

Today it is 20%, he said. There is a real imbalance out there between the PBMs and the big guys and the independent pharmacists and each one of you, the consumers. We are trying to get a little more power behind this negotiation.

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The governor said group purchasing could save people between 18 and 80% on some drug costs.

I am working with other governments to see what we can do as a group with group purchasing going forward, he said.

Soaring costs

The state Office of Health Strategys most recent cost growth benchmark found that prescription drug costs are the fastest rising cost in health care, rising 9.3% from 2022 to 2023.

Taxpayers have been seeing double digit increases on the cost of prescription drugs in the Medicaid program, said Lesser. The taxpayer is on the hook.

Lesser said the largest single growth area in the last year was for GLP-1 weight loss drugs, where total state spending exceeds $150 million.

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Thats why we are looking at getting federal approval to declare them generic and make our own with a licensed pharmaceutical company partner, he said.

Nicole Rall, spokesman for the Connecticut Hospital Association, said in an email Monday that hospitals across Connecticut continue to face unsustainable increases in the cost of prescription drugs  an issue that impacts the financial stability of hospitals as well as affordability and access for patients.

The latest Kaufman Hall analysis of Connecticut hospitals found that the median increase in drug expenses was 10% between FY 2022 and FY 2023amounting to a $249 million increase, she said. This increase exceeds both the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic and national medians. Rising prescription drug costs are just one of many mounting financial pressures that hospitals must navigate. These escalating trends are not new, and Connecticut hospitals remain committed to working collaboratively with lawmakers, advocates, and state leaders to address them.

Rall said hospitals are looking forward to participating in the newly established Advisory Council on Pharmaceutical Procurement and the Task Force to Study Emergency Preparedness and Mitigation Strategies for Prescription Drug Shortages.

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The council was established as part of the legislation.

Bipartisan task force

Lesser said he had been working on drug reform issues for the last few years, recognizing that drug costs were one of the fastest growing areas of health care spending.

He reached out to Gordon this past fall gauging his interest in creating a task force on the issue of affordability of prescription drug costs.

He then brought in the other members including Marra and Gilchrest. The task force formed in November 2024 and included doctors, nurses, pharmacists, experts from the pharmaceutical industry, and advocates and patients.

From there, legislation was then drafted.

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This is a bill that I am proud to say puts people over profits when we are talking about trying to help hardworking people, their families and seniors and businesses that are dealing with the rising cost of prescriptions, said Gordon at the recent bill signing ceremony.

Gilchrest said through the taskforce legislators also learned about the negative impact of the high cost of prescription drugs on peoples health.

There are a lot of people across the state who cant afford their prescription drugs so they take half or they go a few days without taking it, she said. We dont want that to happen in our state.

Marra said in a statement that while lowering costs is important, the new law also provides strong support for pharmacies.

When we support our pharmacies, were supporting the communities they serve, and a pharmacists reach goes well beyond basic, over-the-counter and prescription medications and now includes important consultations on health care, she said. Health care needs to be accessible to be effective, and pharmacies and pharmacists are the most accessible health care we have. Its important we support them.
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX)  The only Democratic candidate to announce her bid for Governor of Wisconsin so far, Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, paid a visit to the Chippewa Valley. At her first stop, she met with staff at River Source Family Center in Chippewa Falls. The nonprofit provides resources for domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking prevention. Rodriguez says the Federal Budget Bill cut funding to critical programs like this, leaving the state to backfill those dollars. Its really important that were able to fund programs like these because we dont want to just come in after the fact, we want to be able to prevent some of this violence from happening, and thats what this program does.

Lt. Governor Rodriguez also visited the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts in Menomonie to learn about upcoming historic preservation projects.

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A disabled Navy veteran says hes grateful to be alive after he was shot in the chest on Seattles waterfront.

More shocked I think than anything else. I just got hit really hard right here in the chest where he hit me real close, said Harold Powell.

Powell is recovering at home after being released from the hospital on Sunday. His family has set up a GoFundMe to help with his recovery.

On Tuesday, prosecutors shared a newly obtained video that they say shows the suspect, 32-year-old Gregory William Timm, firing a gun at Powells chest.

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Seattle police say the shooting happened just after 6 p.m. on July 31 in front of the Starbucks at Pier 55.

I seen the slug. I can see the heat of the slug coming at me and then just, boom! Knocked me back, Powell explained.

Powell told KIRO 7 he thought that was the end for him.

I just went to Im gonna die so let me call my family. Forget everything else. Its just all I thought, I wasnt worried about nothing else, he recalled.

Powell says the bullet cracked his ribs, but did not strike any vital organs.

[Doctors] didnt believe it: after all these x-rays that I can live after being shot like that, he said.

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Powell explained he is a Navy veteran. He says his service ended when he was struck by a drunk driver in 1991.

Since 1995, he says hes been playing music for donations on Seattles waterfront.

I know people down there, they know me. Were kind of a family. There is a family. You know, they expect to see me. I see them, he added.

Powell said it was another ordinary day of work when Timm walked up to him.

Prosecutors say Timm accused Powell of stolen valor  falsely claiming to have served in the military.

Footage shows Timm demanding Powell show military identification before ripping a patch off Powells wheelchair.

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Timm was arrested, but Powell says he hasnt given him much thought since then.

I refuse to complain and Im not gonna let this guy, nothing about this guy, live in my mind rent-free, he said.

Powell says hes just happy to be alive. Hes only focused on himself and his family.

Moving around slow and Im moving around faster. Im just blessed, I can still do my thing with my family. Im blessed.

If youd like to help Powells journey to recovery, head to his GoFundMe page.
Investigation into atrocities committed by France in Cameroon followed pressure from within the Central African country [Universal Images Group via Getty Images]

French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged the violence committed by his country's forces in Cameroon during and after the Central African nation's struggle for independence.

It followed a joint report by Cameroonian and French historians examining France's suppression of independence movements from 1945 to 1971.

In a letter to Cameroon's President Paul Biya made public on Tuesday, Macron said the report made clear "a war had taken place in Cameroon, during which the colonial authorities and the French army exercised repressive violence of several kinds in certain regions of the country".

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"It is up to me today to assume the role and responsibility of France in these events," he said.

However, Macron fell short of offering a clear apology for the atrocities committed by French troops in its former colony, which gained independence in 1960.

The French leader cited four independence icons who were killed during military operations led by French forces, including Ruben Um Nyobe, the firebrand leader of the anti-colonialist UPC party.

France pushed hundreds of thousands of Cameroonians into internment camps and supported brutal militias to quash the independence struggle, the AFP news agency quotes the report as saying.

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Tens of thousands of people were killed between 1956 and 1961, the historians' report said.

The decision to investigate and publish the findings on France's role in Cameroon's independence struggle was made in 2022, during Macron's visit to Yaounde.

It followed pressure from within the country for France to acknowledge its atrocities in its former colony and pay reparations.

Commenting on Macron's lack of apology, one of the historians who contributed to the report said it was their job to "establish the facts and figures after having gone through the archival documents" and not to "recommend apologies".

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Prof Willibroad Dze-Ngwa told the BBC it was not within the historians' remit to recommend reparations.

"Reparations only come after judgement has been passed, and we did not go to the field as a law court to pass judgement and condemn [or] to recommend reparation."

Macron also expressed willingness to work with Cameroon to promote further research on France's historic colonial role, while highlighting the need for both countries to make the findings available to universities and scientific bodies.

The BBC has reached out to Cameroon's government for comment on the French president's admission.

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While Macron did not address calls for reparations, it is likely to be a key talking-point in Cameroon going forward.

His comments have had a mixed reception among Cameroonians.

"Recognising that France has committed wrongs against Cameroonians is not enough," 25-year-old student Charles Wamalamou told the BBC.

He added that France had done "too much harm to Cameroonians".

While 54-year-old teacher Tsoye Bruno told the BBC it was a "good thing" that Macron had acknowledged France's colonial violence, but added that his lack of apology was a "very bad thing".

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Under Macron, France has attempted to confront its brutal colonial past.

Last year, it acknowledged for the first time that its soldiers had carried out a "massacre" in Senegal in which West African troops were killed in 1944.

Macron has previously acknowledged France's role in the Rwandan genocide, in which about 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus died, and sought forgiveness.

In 2021, he said France had not heeded warnings of impending carnage and had for too long "valued silence over examination of the truth".

France has also made several attempts over the years to reconcile with its former colony Algeria, but has stopped short of issuing a formal apology.

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In 2017, Macron, then a presidential candidate, described the colonisation of Algeria as a "crime against humanity", but two years later, he said there would be no "repentance nor apologies" for it.

Instead, he said France would take part in "symbolic acts" aimed at promoting reconciliation, and commemorating the history of its violent occupation of the north African country.

Recently, several West African countries under military rule, including Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, have severed their ties with France, accusing it of continued neo-colonial control.

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Frances President Emmanuel Macron has formally recognised what he called Frances repressive violence in Cameroon during and after the countrys fight for independence in the late 1950s  a rare admission of a long-overlooked part of Frances colonial history.

In a letter to Cameroonian President Paul Biya, published on Tuesday but sent last month, Macron described the conflict as a war and accepted Frances role and responsibility in events that left tens of thousands dead and hundreds of thousands displaced.

The statement follows a landmark report in January by a joint historical commission, which found that Frances counter-insurgency campaign included mass forced displacement, internment camps and support for violent militias.

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The violence continued after Cameroons formal independence on 1 January 1960.

Macron launched the commission during a 2022 visit to Yaounde, tasking 14 French and Cameroonian historians with reviewing the period between 1945 and 1971.

Drawing on declassified archives, witness testimonies and field research, the group painted a stark picture of Frances efforts to suppress the growing independence movement after World War II.

While most of Cameroon came under French control in 1918, following Germanys defeat in World War I, nationalist demands intensified after 1945.

Macron begins first Africa trip of new term with visit to Cameroon

Forgotten conflict

According to the report, between 1956 and 1961 Frances military campaign claimed tens of thousands of lives.

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For many in France, the conflict barely registered at the time. Unlike Algerias 1954-1962 independence war, it involved mostly African troops and remained largely out of public view.

But Paris maintained close ties with Cameroons first post-independence leader, Ahmadou Ahidjo, whose authoritarian rule lasted until 1982.

Biya  now 92 and the worlds oldest head of state  has been in power ever since.

He is seeking an eighth term in Octobers presidential election, though opposition hopes have been dealt a blow  last week the constitutional court rejected the candidacy of Maurice Kamto, his main challenger.

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Cameroon's President Biya, 92, announces bid for eighth term in office

Colonial reckoning

Reaction to Macrons letter in Cameroon has been mixed. Mathieu Njassep, head of the Association of Cameroonian Veterans, welcomed the acknowledgement but said France must go further and consider reparations.

Macron did not address compensation in his letter, but pledged to open Frances archives to researchers and proposed a new bilateral working group to monitor progress in research and education.

The move fits into Macrons broader  and often contentious  approach to confronting Frances colonial past. In recent years he has backed reports on Frances actions during Algerias war of independence and the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

These studies have acknowledged overwhelming responsibilities but stopped short of formal apologies, something Macron has ruled out in the Algerian case.
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed support for a trilateral meeting between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Europe.

Following a video call with the US president and European leaders, Macron said at his summer residence in Bormes-les-Mimosas in the south of France on Wednesday that Trump wanted to push for such a gathering.

"We wish for it to be held in Europe, in a neutral country that is accepted by all sides," Macron posted on the social media platform X.

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Macron also said that Trump had been very clear that the goal of the US was to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine at the meeting with Putin in Alaska.

The French president further stressed that issues concerning Ukrainian territory should and would not be negotiated without Ukraine.

He also said it was important for Europe to be heard before the meeting. While it was normal for the US and Russia to talk bilaterally, "it is important that when issues are discussed that concern Europe, our common security, there is coordination with us Europeans," Macron said.
Following a video call between European leaders and US President Donald Trump on 13 August, Trump reportedly assured them that the United States was ready to help strengthen security in Europe after peace is established in Ukraine, while NATO would not be involved in this process.

Source: French President Emmanuel Macron in a conversation with journalists in Bregancon, France, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Trump told European leaders that once peace is achieved in Ukraine, the United States would contribute to bolstering security in Europe, but NATO would not.

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In a video call on 13 August, US President Donald Trump reportedly assured European leaders that the United States is ready to help strengthen security in Europe after peace is established in Ukraine, but NATO will not be involved.

Source: French President Emmanuel Macron speaking to journalists in Bregancon, France, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Trump told the European leaders that once peace is achieved in Ukraine, the US will contribute to bolstering security in Europe, but NATO will not.

Macron said Trump had said several things that he considers very important, including that NATO should not be part of the security guarantees, which Macron said is a particularly insistent demand from the Russian side. He added, however, that Trump believes the US, and all allies willing to do so, should take part in providing these guarantees.

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Macron noted that Trump had spoken about the link he believes there should be between any territorial concession and the security guarantees to be provided to Ukraine.

He pointed out that this is the position that European leaders have been advocating and fighting for over the past few months, which even resulted in the coalition of the willing being set up. Macron stressed that President Trump had expressed himself very clearly in exactly those terms, and he regards this as a very important clarification received that day.

Background:

As European Pravda reported earlier, Macron also stated after the conversation with Trump that territorial issues will not be negotiated with anyone but Zelenskyy.

Commenting on the talks, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz outlined the positions conveyed in the conversation with Trump. He said the discussion had included Ukraines readiness to discuss territorial issues, but that the starting point would be the line of contact.

Merz stressed that legal recognition of the occupied territories [as Russian] is not up for discussion.

Zelenskyy said the issue of the meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska on 15 August had been covered in various talks. He added that Trump has offered to call him after the Alaska meeting.

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French President Emmanuel Macron has said that territorial issues "will not be the subject of talks" with anyone other than Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Source: BFM TV, a French TV news broadcast, citing Macron after large-scale talks involving European leaders, Zelenskyy and US leadership, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Macron said that among the key topics discussed during the talks between European leaders and US President Donald Trump on the war in Ukraine, particular attention had been given to territorial issues.

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"Territorial issues that fall under Ukraine's jurisdiction will be negotiated only by the Ukrainian president. This is the position we support," he stated.

He stressed that there are currently "no serious plans for a territorial swap" on the negotiating table.

Background:

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, commenting on the talks, revealed the main points brought up in the conversation with Trump. In particular, it was discussed that "Ukraine is ready to discuss territorial issues, but the starting point will be the line of contact".

"Legal recognition of the occupied territories [as Russian  ed.] is not up for discussion," he emphasised.

Zelenskyy said that talks in different formats had covered the issue of a meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska on 15 August. Trump proposed to Zelenskyy that they would maintain contact after the Alaska meeting.

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A key element of the White Houses war on data is hiding government statistics it doesnt like. In fact, throughout Donald Trumps second term, his administration has gone to outlandish lengths to keep important data away from the public.

As The Washington Post reported a few months ago, The Trump administration is deleting taxpayer-funded data  information that Americans use to make sense of the world. In its absence, the president can paint the world as he pleases. The same report added, Curating reality is an old political game, but Trumps sweeping statistical purges are part of a broader attempt to reinvent truth.

Its difficult to do a full accounting of what has gone missing, but we know the list includes climate data, education data, trade data and crime data  all of which has been buried, deliberately, because the figures were deemed politically inconvenient.

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That list might yet grow in dramatic ways. The Washington Post reported:

President Donald Trumps nominee to run the Bureau of Labor Statistics told Fox News Digital on Monday that the agency should suspend monthly jobs reports, a change that could leave businesses and policymakers at least temporarily without the data theyve used for decades to gauge the state of the labor market and broader economy.

For several decades, the public, here and around the world, could count on the release of new U.S. jobs data on the first Friday of every month. Donald Trump's handpicked choice to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, E.J. Antoni, apparently disapproves of this schedule.

Until it is corrected, the BLS should suspend issuing the monthly job reports but keep publishing the more accurate, though less timely, quarterly data, Antoni said, referring to recent revisions to monthly reports. Major decision-makers from Wall Street to D.C. rely on these numbers, and a lack of confidence in the data has far-reaching consequences.

(Antonis interview with Fox News Digital conducted earlier this month, before Trump announced that he was nominating the Heritage Foundation economist to lead the BLS.)

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The argument is badly flawed, in part because releasing the data quarterly, instead of monthly, leaves everyone in the dark for much of the year, and in part because of the underlying motivation: If the goal is to address a lack of confidence in the data, the president wouldnt have fired a highly qualified and widely respected BLS chief in the first place, only to replace her with an unqualified partisan loyalist.

Indeed, perhaps people would have greater confidence in the data if Trump stopped lying about the figures.

Nevertheless, after Antonis comments to Fox News Digital circulated, a reporter asked White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt whether the administration would, in fact, start limiting public access to U.S. job data to once per quarter, instead of once per month.

Well, look, what Ill tell you about the Bureau of Labor Statistics  I believe that is the plan and thats the hope, and that these monthly reports will be data that the American people can trust, Leavitt said. As you know, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has made massive revisions after the last several reports that they have put out.

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And there has certainly been a decline in the quality and reliability of data coming from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and theres been an increase in revisions, Leavitt added.

First, when a White House press secretary begins her answer to a straightforward question with, Well, look, that tends to be a bad sign.

Second, saying that the administration plans and hopes to keep releasing monthly reports was hardly a firm commitment to the status quo.

Third, the White House continues to talk about revisions to government statistics in a way that makes it seem as if Trump administration officials dont understand the underlying policy details at a basic level.

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Fourth, if theres been a decline in the quality and reliability of data, that might have something to do with the president firing so many of the people who were responsible for collecting and compiling the data.

And finally, all of this served as a reminder of a threat that hasnt been widely appreciated. In recent weeks, many have voiced concerns about the president and his team possibly manipulating official data, but now theres a new concern: What if they limit access to the data for months on end?

Theres no need to cook the books when its easier to close the books and keep them hidden.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The list of bad decisions from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is not short, but this was especially egregious: The conspiracy theorist, who has a lengthy record of promoting bizarre and unscientific ideas, announced that he and the Trump administration are terminating a series of federal contracts focused on developing mRNA vaccines. RFK Jr. also said hes winding down additional federal investments in mRNA technology.

The condemnations from the reality-based community quickly followed. Mike Osterholm, a University of Minnesota expert on infectious diseases and pandemic preparations, told The Associated Press: I dont think Ive seen a more dangerous decision in public health in my 50 years in the business.

Around the same time, Dr. Jerome Adams, who served as the surgeon general during Donald Trumps first term, added via social media: Ive tried to be objective & non-alarmist in response to current HHS actions  but quite frankly this move is going to cost lives.

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The president tried to defend the decision, but failed. Kennedy tried, too, and he fared about as well. It was against this backdrop that Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Trumps handpicked director of the National Institutes of Health, wrote an op-ed for The Washington Post making his best case.

Bhattacharya, a deeply unfortunate choice to lead the NIH, conceded in his opinion piece that the mRNA platform is promising, and has the potential to deliver breakthroughs. So why in the world is the Republican administration, as Bhattacharya put it, winding down its mRNA vaccine development activities? His Post piece stressed a few points, but this was the heart of his defense:

[A]s a vaccine intended for broad public use, especially during a public health emergency, the platform has failed a crucial test: earning public trust. No matter how elegant the science, a platform that lacks credibility among the people it seeks to protect cannot fulfill its public health mission.

The NIH director bolstered his point by pointing to polls showing Americans reluctance to get Covid booster shots, which were developed through mRNA research, before peddling some baseless claims about the Biden administrations scientific overreach and arrogance.

So, lets take stock.

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At issue is a game-changing and lifesaving scientific breakthrough. To scientists who study it, mRNA is a miracle molecule, The New York Times reported in May. The vaccines that harnessed it against Covid saved an estimated 20 million lives, a rapid development that was recognized with a Nobel Prize.

The same Times report added that mRNA research has raised hopes of possible treatments  and perhaps even cures  for deadly cancers and a host of genetic and chronic diseases.

Even Trump himself has celebrated mRNA vaccines  the president explicitly referred to them as a modern-day miracle  before he put the nations public health infrastructure in the hands of a guy who has claimed, among other things, that Wi-Fi causes leaky brain.

But according to the NIH director, the scientific potential apparently doesnt matter. The miracle apparently doesnt matter. Even the number of Americans who might suffer as a direct result to the Trump administrations cuts apparently doesnt matter.

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What does matter, Bhattacharya argued, is that mRNA research hasnt earned public trust.

To be sure, Im not in a position to say which areas of scientific research have been embraced by the American mainstream. Im not even sure how many Americans are familiar with mRNA or its potential.

I am confident, however, that major scientific powers dont base research decisions on popularity contests.

Most laypeople outside of the scientific community arent in a position to make qualified assessments about the merits of investing in specific technologies. On the contrary, most laypeople are susceptible to misinformation, disinformation and the kind of anti-science conspiracy theories touted by RFK Jr., which results in less knowledge and more confusion.

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What the general public needs, in other words, is a policy environment in which they put investment decisions like these in the hands of qualified and experienced scientific experts who prioritize the publics well-being  the kind of experts who traditionally have worked at the NIH.

If Bhattacharya hoped his op-ed would prove persuasive, hes going to be disappointed.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Ahead of Donald Trumps scheduled meeting with Russias Vladimir Putin in Alaska this week, The New York Times appeared to give the American president something new to talk about with his Russian counterpart. The Times reported that U.S. investigators have uncovered evidence that Russia is at least partly responsible for a recent hack of the computer system that manages federal court documents, including highly sensitive records with information that could reveal sources and people charged with national security crimes.

The report, which has not been independently verified by MSNBC or NBC News, went on to note that administrators with the court system recently informed Justice Department officials, clerks and chief judges in federal courts that persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records.

Those with sensitive documents within the system have apparently been advised to quickly remove them. The internal memo to Justice Department officials and staffers from the courts system, according to the Times, added: This remains an URGENT MATTER that requires immediate action.

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This was, in other words, a rather serious cyberoffensive. The day after the Times account was published, a reporter asked Trump about the story, and as CNBC reported, the Republican didnt appear to care.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday shrugged off a question about a new report that Russia is at least partially responsible for hacking the electronic system that manages U.S. federal court case documents. Are you surprised? Trump said during a press event at the Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C. They hack in, thats what they do, he said about Russia.

After noting that he could bring this up during his scheduled talks with Putin, Trump added that Russian cyberattackers are good at it.

In other words, theres reason to believe a foreign adversary launched an offensive targeting highly sensitive U.S. court records, including cases related to national security  and when asked about this, the American president shrugged with indifference.

Trump couldve at least offered some kind of half-hearted condemnation, but he couldnt bring himself to bother.

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The developments came on the heels of Trump backing off threatened sanctions on Russia  for the fifth time  and extending an invitation to Putin to come to American soil, giving the accused war criminal the validation he was looking for.

It also follows the American president urging G7 leaders to reward Putin by welcoming him back into the international group, while blaming G7 members for having hurt Russias feelings.

Trump often wonders why his critics accuse him of being weak on Russia, but its really not that complicated.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country.

* Texas Republicans signaled an end to their special session, devoted largely to mid-decade redistricting, which was derailed by Democratic legislators fleeing the state. But GOP officials also said a second special session would immediately follow, at which point the party would try again to rig the states district map.

* Democratic officials have hoped for months that former Sen. Sherrod Brown, who was narrowly defeated in a re-election bid last year, would launch a comeback bid in Ohio next year. The former senator now appears poised to do exactly that, improving the partys odds of winning the seat.

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* In Alabama, with Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville giving up his Senate seat to run for governor, Republican Rep. Barry Moore is launching a bid to succeed him in the chamber. Ten years ago, Moore  at the time, a state legislator  had the distinction of becoming the first elected official in the nation to endorse Donald Trumps candidacy.

* In Georgias gubernatorial race, the president this week formally endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones in his upcoming GOP primary, to the disappointment of state Attorney General Chris Carr, whod made multiple trips to the White House in recent months in the hopes of currying favor with Trump.

* In New York, Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik hasnt formally launched her gubernatorial candidacy, but the latest Siena Poll suggests shell start as an underdog: Incumbent Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul leads the congresswoman in the survey by 14 points, 45% to 31%.

* Speaking of New York, the latest Siena poll also found Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani with 44% support in New York Citys mayoral race, followed by former Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whos running as an independent, with 25%.

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* And in Florida, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis was in the market for a new lieutenant governor, and this week, he tapped Republican state Sen. Jay Collins for the job. Whether Collins will run for governor next year against Rep. Byron Donalds is not yet clear.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays edition of quick hits.

* A worthwhile diplomatic effort: President Donald Trump joined a video call Wednesday with European leaders and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who implored him not to capitulate to Russias demands during Fridays high-profile summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. During a press conference at the Kennedy Center in downtown Washington, D.C., Trump described the call as a very good conversation.

* In related news: The U.S. Treasury is temporarily lifting a very narrow set of sanctions on Russia in order to allow it to make financial transactions that are necessary for President Putins visit to Alaska in the coming days for his summit with President Trump.

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* Does he realize how many times hes failed to follow through on empty threats like these: Trump warned in his remarks with reporters that Russia will face consequences if Putin doesnt agree to end his countrys war in Ukraine after their meeting Friday.

* Be prepared, D.C. residents: Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center that hes going to submit a crime bill to Congress and will ask lawmakers to approve an extension for his administrations federalization of the D.C. police to address crime. ... Trumps emergency powers to take control of the D.C. police only lasts for 30 days and any extensions must be approved by Congress.

* The skepticism was warranted: A judge on Wednesday expressed some skepticism about an unprecedented lawsuit in which the Trump administration sued all 15 Maryland-based federal judges over a standing order related to deportation cases.

* A story worth watching: Donald Trumps Navy and Air Force are poised to cancel two nearly complete software projects that took 12 years and well over $800 million combined to develop, work initially aimed at overhauling antiquated human resources systems. The reason for the unusual move: officials at those departments, who have so far put the existing projects on hold, want other firms, including Salesforce and billionaire Peter Thiels Palantir, to have a chance to win similar projects, which could amount to a costly do-over.

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* Bondis DOJ has the strangest priorities: The Justice Department sent out an internal memo on Tuesday directing employees not to use preferred pronouns in their email signatures. The memo, which was sent department-wide, says the directive is to conform with President Trumps executive order Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.

See you tomorrow.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
After Donald Trump announced that hes deploying National Guard troops to D.C. streets and placing local police officers under federal control, the president justified the dramatic power grab by pointing to conditions in the nations capital. Theres a public safety crisis and public safety emergency in the District of Columbia, the Republican claimed, which is reflected in crime in the nations capital that is rising and out of control.

As is often the case with this White House, reality quickly got in the way of the partisan talking points. Crime rates are down across the board in Washington, D.C., and violent crime rates have reached a 30-year low. The New York Times highlighted a list of false and misleading claims that Trump made during the rollout of his policy, and the list was not short.

Given these circumstances, White House officials basically have three options. The first is relatively straightforward: acknowledge the statistical evidence, but explain that the president and his team have decided to militarize the nations capital anyway.

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The second option would be for the White House to present alternative data that paints a different picture that the administration considers more compelling.

The third option would be to pretend the statistical evidence the White House doesnt like is fake.

Take a wild guess which one Team Trump prefers.

The morning after the president launched his D.C. initiative, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller  who recently made headlines for peddling weird claims about immigrant crime in Minneapolis  published an item to social media that read:

Crime stats in big blue cities are fake. The real rates of crime, chaos [and] dysfunction are orders of magnitude higher. Everyone who lives in these areas knows this. They program their entire lives around it. Democrats are trying to unravel civilization. Pres Trump will save it.

The falsehood-per-sentence ratio in this little missive was, in a rather literal sense, 1:1, though it is interesting to see Team Trump add crime statistics to its list of fake things, joining U.S. job numbers, census data, the presidents approval rating, and news organizations and reports the president doesnt like.

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But more specifically, Im curious who, exactly, Miller is accusing of generating fake crime statistics.

The official data comes by way of police departments, who send crime statistics to the FBI, which compiles and releases the official numbers. So who is the White House accusing of deceiving the public? Is Miller accusing police officers of lying, or does he think Kash Patels FBI is peddling false information?

Whats more, lets not forget that the FBIs controversial director appeared at the presidents press conference on Monday, when Patel boasted from the White House podium, The murder rates are plummeting. We are now able to report that the murder rate is on track to be the lowest in U.S. history.

That was true, though if Miller correct, the boast from Trumps FBI director should be discarded  because crime stats in cities led by Democratic officials are fake, which necessarily throws off the bureaus figures.

The White Houses war on data and government statistics was already a mess. Its apparently getting worse.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
WINTERSET, Iowa  Madison County Elections Deputy Mikayla (Garside) Simpson will be on administrative leave through the upcoming special election.

WHO 13 has learned that Simpson is taking the leave at her request due to alleged harassment within the Auditors Office and legal concerns.

It became necessary for me to request administrative leave due to the daily harassment by my boss and legal liability imposed by a lawsuit filed by the auditor and board chair against me as whistleblower retaliation, she told WHO 13s Katie Kaplan in a statement. The election is programmed, voting locations are set, workers are scheduled and trained, and all instructions and information to proceed with a successful election on the 26th have been provided.

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LifeServe holds daily blood drive at Iowa State Fair

Simpson declined to provide additional information on the alleged harassment. Her statement refers to an amended filing in Federal Court, which shows Temporary Auditor Matthew Schwarz has joined Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Heather Stancil in a lawsuit against Sheriff Jason Barnes, accusing him of violating their Constitutional rights. An amended complaint also names Simpson, County Attorney Stephen Swanson, and Deputy Sheriff Donald Kinney, as defendants.

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An upcoming Special Election for the Auditors Office is scheduled for Aug. 26.

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Her boss is Temporary Auditor Schwarz, who was appointed last month and is one of two candidates running for the permanent seat. Through his appointed position, he is also the Commissioner of Elections. It is unclear if a third party will be brought in due to a perceived conflict of interest with his campaign and position.

WHO 13 called Auditor Schwarz for comment on his cell phone. He did not answer, but responded via text and requested to be contacted by text. He did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This story will be updated if/when he does.

This is a developing story. Check back with WHO 13 for more details as they develop.

Iowa news

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
As many CEOs understandably grew horrified last month at the prospect that New York City, the capital of capitalism, is on the brink of going socialist with the mayoral momentum of the inexperienced candidate Zohran Mamdani, they were ignoring the greater assault on free market capitalism that has already overtaken the nation in the Republican Party. While we agree that Mamdanis solutions to affordable housing and grocery prices threaten to undermine free markets by bowing to the appeal of populist anger, President Donald Trump has already begun doing so, but to suit his own grandiose political agenda instead.

Unlike any leader of any free-market economy around the world, President Trump has seized control of private enterprises strategic decision-making and investment policies while invading corporate board rooms so that he may dictate leadership staffing, punish corporate critics, and demand public compliance with his political agenda. This is far more dangerous to capitalism than a city-run grocery store.

Many free-market economists and business leaders who have long worshipped the free-market ideals of Adam Smith, Friedrich Hayek, Ayn Rand, and Milton Friedman should be aware that their idols would be rolling in their graves right now, as rather than pursue standard laissez-faire conservative economic policies, MAGA has gone Marxist and even, increasingly, Maoist.

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As Greg Ip warned this week in The Wall Street Journal, The US marches toward state capitalism with American characteristics  President Trump is imitating [the] Chinese Communist Party by extending political control ever deeper into the economy. Ip pointed out that in the past, crisis-driven government bailouts of the banking and automotive sectors, such as TARP, were acute, targeted assistance, with brief and bipartisan rescue aims. Similarly, government incentives to drive investments in chips manufacturing, oil exploration, space exploration, internet development, agricultural vitality, cancer detection, disease treatment, and clean energy were not ownership deals with preferred companies or corporate cronies.

Indeed, Ips warnings mirror our own, as we were the first to accurately, presciently warnover a year agothat many of Trumps economic positions more closely resemble communism than capitalism, as part of what we called the coming MAGA assault on capitalism. It certainly looks like MAGA is going Marxist if not even Maoist, especially across Trumps vicious personal targeting of individual business leaders; government crackdown on business freedom of expression; weaponization of government powers; apparent extortion of businesses; and insertion of government into an unprecedented, outsized role in private sector strategic investment, capital flows and business decision-making.

Marxism and Maoism were both, of course, expressions of the communist theory that spilled forth from Karl Marxs pen in the 19th century, brought to life in the brutal one-party states of the Soviet Union and the Peoples Republic of China under its leader Mao Zedong, before it evolved into capitalism with Chinese characteristics starting in the 1970s, around the time of President Richard Nixons fateful visit to Beijing.

Both Marxism and Maoism claimed to champion ordinary people against corrupt or exploitative elites, while both targeted intellectuals, bureaucrats, and traditionalists, and purged institutions to enforce ideological purity, especially during Stalins Great Terror and Maos Cultural Revolution. Both centralized leadership to the point of creating a cult of personality, demanding intense loyalty and the glorification of the sole figure who could fix the countrys problems. Both prized loyalty over expertise, sidelining critics and dissenters in favor of a tightly controlled political narrative. Sound familiar?

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The essence of market capitalism is that ownersshareholders and the management they appoint share in the profits. These deals give share of profits to government in return for favors. Friedman said that federal government should never own anythingthat it should not run a surplus because it would have funds to invest in the private sector. What strategic decision-making rights would the government have in such deals, then?

Assaults targeting individual business leaders

Trump has a long history of targeting individual CEOs in highly vicious, personal terms for perceived offenses. This week, Trump called for the firing of Goldman Sachs renowned economist Jan Hatzius who accurately called the 2008 financial crisis over the economists concern regarding the tariff overhand on the US economy. He also attacked a top-performing financier, David Solomon, the non-partisan CEO of Goldman Sachs, telling him to quit and just be a disc jockey. (Solomon has a famous side hustle as an electronic dance music DJ, known as DJ D-Sol.)

Just last week, many semiconductor industry observers expressed tremendous discomfort with Trumps attacks on Lip-Bu Tan, the CEO of Intel, and Trumps calls for his immediate resignation. Even those who are genuinely concerned by Tans documented history of CCP ties and his continuing investments in China, would have preferred that Trump express his views in a more subtle fashion which recognizes the widespread entanglements of the Chinese Communist Party in the largest Chinese businesses. Roughly one-third of the Chinese economy is controlled by CCP-owned enterprises with actual CCP monitors in their boardrooms. Instead of calling this out, the Trump administration appears to want to match such corporate oversight itself.

Virtually any CEO doing business in China works with companies and schools that have ties to Peoples Liberation Army of China, given Chinas own authoritarian command economy. There has been great concern that such prominent Chinese businesses as Huawei, Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), China Telecom, China Mobile, and Hikvision have close ties to the PLA. Many state-owned enterprises with which most western enterprises do business even have militias with ties to the PLA. While this is concerning across political parties, how can President Trump justifying singling out Intel alone?

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Trump has similarly publicly called out and humiliated leading CEOs ranging from Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan to Brian Moynihan of Bank of America to Doug McMillon of Walmart to Tim Cook of Apple to Matt Levatich of Harley-Davidson, among many others, when they speak the truth about issues ranging from trade policies to HR practices to diplomacy to environmental sustainability.

The unwarranted attack on Brian Moynihan and Bank of Americathat they previously denied him as a customerwas particularly alarming as President Trumps four bankruptcies were reasonable concerns when major banks were approached about lending to him. Bewilderingly, Deutsche Banks private wealth unit loaned Trump $48 millionfollowing his default on a $640 million loan from Deutsche Banks commercial unit. Now regulators are being told by the Trump Administration to withdraw reputation risk as criteria for reviewing prudent banking practices.

Suppressing business freedom of expression in favor of political obedience

The political right used to complain about the political correctness of the left. Similarly, Trumps history of cracking down on businesses for exercising their freedom of expression resembles the purges of Maoist China far more than American democratic norms.

For example, when Merck CEO Ken Frazier resigned from Trumps Manufacturing Councils in protest over Trumps infamous response to the Charlottesville rally, claiming there were fine people on both sides, Trump lashed out at Frazier, mocking him by saying hed now have more time to lower ripoff drug prices. Similarly, Trump has repeatedly attacked Jeff Bezos, claiming that Amazon was stealing from the US Postal Service in the aftermath of critical coverage by the Bezos-owned Washington Post.

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Trump FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson has publicly challenged woke ideology as a part of his antitrust remit, arguing that In 2020, if you had a view on masks that was inconsistent with how big tech felt about masks, you werent allowed to talk about it. If you had a view on vaccines, couldnt talk about it. But it wasnt just big tech censorship. That was a huge problem. Consumers couldnt go into a store without having political messages pushed in their face. And Im sitting in 2020 working in the Senate going, gosh, if companies feel like they can alienate half their consumer base without suffering any real competitive consequences, we probably have a competition problem.

Similarly, Trump FCC Chair Brendan Carr has argued that he would use DEI as a basis to block mergers, declaring that if there are businesses out there that are still promoting invidious forms of DEI discrimination, I really dont see a path forward where the FCC could reach the conclusion that approving the transaction is going to be in the public interest.

Accordingly, to complete it acquisition of Paramount/CBS, David Ellisons Skydance had to ensure review of its news reporting to address bias and restore fact-based reporting with a bias monitor as well as racial hiring practices which met the FCCs standards under Carr.

Seizing control of strategic investment and private enterprise decision-making

Akin to Mao Zedong directing business decisions as a part of his wildly disastrous Great Leap Forward central economic planning initiative, Trump has plunged the US government headfirst into an unprecedented active role in directing private business decision-making and capital flows. Last month, he ordered Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey to replace cane sugar with other sweeteners that the firm uses, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting such a move and despite the fact that the CEO of Coca-Cola is accountable to his board and shareholders, not Donald Trump.

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This even extends to the US government directly receiving equity stakes, golden shares, and royalties from business revenues, sometimes as a part of complicated negotiations with the US government and giving off the appearance, whether warranted or not, of drug deals. For example, leading chipmakers Nvidia and AMD were just forced to surrender 15% of the revenue flows from their sales to China to the U.S. government, apparently as a concession to be able to continue selling in that market.

Similarly, as a precondition to approving the dangerous takeover of US Steel by the Japanese, Trump extracted a golden share for the U.S. government with effective veto power over certain corporate decisions. Likewise, in his first term, Trump attacked Harley-Davidson for supposedly moving factories overseas when in reality 100% of its beloved motorcycles sold in the U.S. are actually made in the U.S. Out of sheer political spite, Trump proclaimed that American bikers should buy from Harleys foreign competitors, ranting that Harley had surrendered and betrayed America while threatening they will be taxed like never before.

Likewise, Trump wrongly accused Ford of robbing Detroit of jobs when it relocated an engine plant from Europe to Mexico, fortifying its North American supply chain. When one of us personally corrected Trump on that, he replied, I dont care, its working. At the same time, the home appliances firm Carrier had a parallel experience with Trump-bashing them, despite being located in Mike Pences home state of Indiana.

Political weaponization of government powers

Trump targeted AT&T with a drawn-out antitrust suit as well as numerous personal taunts when it tried to merge with Time Warner, hoping to pressure CNN to become more friendly in its coverage. In stark contrast, Trump pal Rupert Murdoch received the white-gloves treatment through antitrust when he sold 21st Century Fox at around the same time, despite arguably more genuine antitrust concerns.

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In fact, Trump antitrust chief Makan Delrahim expressed support for the AT&T-Time Warner combination as an academic but flipped 180 degrees to appease Trump once in office, holding up the deal for two years. Likewise, before his first term ran out, Trump personally drove a proposed deal that would have secured TikTok for his longtime supporter and friend Larry Ellison at Oracle, unusually inserting himself into every detail of the negotiation process.

The appearance of extortion and bribery

As prominent media commentators such as Oliver Darcy and Matt Belloni point out, some of Trumps demands resemble extortion. There was the payment of $16 million to the Trump Presidential Library from CBS News 60 Minutes over the standard editing of an interview with Kamala Harris last summer. This occurred over the objections of its executive producer (who resigned in protest), and while FCC approval was pending of Paramounts acquisition by Skydance.

This was followed by the cancellation of the modern King of Comedy, Stephen Colbert, whose revered late show suddenly had its deal abruptly canceled on the eve of Trumps FCC merger approval, seemingly over its satirical criticism of the Trump administration. The explanation that the show was too expensive and lost money raised many eyebrows, particularly given the lack of attempts to trim the 200-person production staff.

Similar lawsuits initiated by Trump in office against private businesses give off a similar appearance of extortion and bribery, whether justified or not. These include Trumps $10 billion lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal for reporting about a letter Trump wrote to Jeffrey Epstein for his 50th birthday; and Disney/ABCs $15 million payment to the Trump Presidential Library to settle defamation claims against George Stephanopoulos.

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Across each of these five dimensions, one cant help but think MAGA is going Marxist or full Maoist. Adam Smiths salute to the invisible hand of free markets in favor of the fist of government appears to be losing out in the Trump administration. as these unprecedented policies with no parallel in American history share much more in common with Karl Marx and Mao Zedong than Adam Smith and Ayn Rand. Many now wonder why the Business Roundtable remains missing in action, insulating itself with turgid knowledge, subtracting white papers and passive forums, piously genuflecting to President Trumps assaults on free-market capitalism that make New Yorks Mamdani look like John D. Rockefeller.

The Marxist-style oppression of free enterprise was echoed in assaults on the nations top law firms and universities through authoritarian blitzkriegs to suppress constitutionally protected American ideals of freedom of expression, a cornerstone of capitalism. Harvard University, like 60 other universities, has been threatened with a cutoff of foreign-born students and vital federal research funds under the false pretext of antisemitism, despite the Anti-Defamation League giving Harvard passing grades on its tests for antisemitism. Paul Weiss is one of many major law firms that the Trump administration threatened with having its security clearance and federal building access denied, merely by offering to represent independent citizen voices attacked by Trump for noncompliance with his thought police and MAGA political correctness. We have spoken in admiration of the hundreds of universities and law firms that have now unified to stop these totalitarian White House edicts. The legal and academic community remembered what the Business Roundtable and genuine traditional economic conservatives have forgotten, which was Benjamin Franklins admonition that we must all hang together or surely we will hang separately.

The authors would like to thank Steven Tian and Stephen Henriques from the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute for their research.

The opinions expressed in Fortune.com commentary pieces are solely the views of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of Fortune.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Republican Rep. Tim Burchett confessed this week that hes been sleeping in his Washington, D.C. office because its too dangerous to even wander the capital streets.

Its a bit different than the reason he gave in February, when he said the office sleepovers helped him show up to work early.

 REP BURCHETT: "DC'S TOO DADGUM DANGEROUS, BROTHER"



"This town is out of touch. Its leadership is out of touch.



You don't want to go out on the streets at night in Washington, D.C.



I live in my office at night... it's too dadgum dangerous, brother.



Everybody knows it, and https://t.co/2umhr3hYE4 pic.twitter.com/5CnIpsHkG3  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 12, 2025

Burchett, a MAGA lawmaker from Tennessee, said Tuesday that its too dadgum dangerous to go out at night in D.C. Therefore, he snoozes in his own office rather than sleeping elsewhere.

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But in February, a NOTUS report by Emily Kennard and Torrence Banks revealed that Burchett actually slept in his office for a completely different reason: to avoid having to get up early for meetings.

Rep. Tim Burchett told NOTUS that he still sleeps in his office because it helps him stay productive and get to meetings early. He was unsure that the trend would catch on with other lawmakers and offices now that [Elon] Musks team is promoting it, the report said.

At the time, Burchett said that he did in fact hope that the trend would catch on.

Rep. Tim Burchett claims that Washington, D.C. is too dangerous to walk outside at night. / Kevin Dietsch / Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

But I dont see Congress doing a lot of work, no matter whos in power. Theyll say they are. But you go back to Tennessee, people laugh. I mean, aint nobody digging a ditch up here, Burchett said.

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Six months later, Burchetts story has changed.

You dont want to go out on the streets at night in Washington, D.C., Burchett told CNN.

I come from a family of public educators. Thats one of the reasons I live in my office at night. But the other reason is its too dadgum dangerous, brother. It is dangerous. Everybody knows it. And the people are being victimized, he added.

The Daily Beast reached out to Burchett for comment.

President Donald Trump announced this week that he plans to deploy the National Guard in D.C. and take control of the local police force. He also said that he would assign FBI agents to fight street crime.

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Despite crime actually falling in the nations capital, the president said Tuesday that he vows to allow the police to do whatever the hell they want to liberate the city.

You spit, and we hitand they get hit real hard, Trump said, claiming that crime in D.C. is worse than the streets of Baghdad, Mexico City, and Bogota, Colombia.

Its become a situation of complete and total lawlessness, he said. Its time for dramatic action.
Passengers looking to fly directly from Delhi, India to the U.S. Capitol will want to book a flight with an airline aside from Air India.

Air India announced Aug. 11, 2025 that it would be suspending direct flights to Washington DC.

Airplane Upgrade and Airspace Closure to Blame

The airline "primarily" blamed an upgrade program on its fleet of 26 Boeing 787-8 jets that began in July for the delay. But Air India also pointed to the fact that Pakistan's airspace has been continually closed to Indian flights.

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The suspension is set to begin Sept. 1, 2025, and will likely end at the earliest by the end of 2026, according to the company's official announcement.

Air India customers who have already booked direct flights to DC for after the suspension date will be offered alternative travel arrangements, which could include booking other flights or full refunds.

The company's fleet of 787-8s is undergoing an upgrade program to improve the "customer experience," and "necessitates a prolonged unavailability of multiple aircraft at any given time until at least end of 2026."

The Pakistan airspace closure to Indian flights is a little more complicated.

More Details on the Airspace Closure

The two countries have been at odds for decades, but the latest conflict began on April 22, 2025 with a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India that killed 26. India the next day in response suspended a treaty it had signed with Pakistan and shutdown a main land border crossing between the two countries, according to The Hindu.

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Pakistan April 24 then closed its airspace to Indian flights, and India closed its airspace to Pakistani flights on April 30. Both countries have extended the airspace closures since then.

Air India is expected to face around $600 million in extra costs because of the airspace closure, and has asked the Indian government for financial assistance while the conflict continues, according to The Independent.

Related: Alaska Airlines Cuts 4 Routes in Major Shakeup

Major Airline Announces Temporary Stop on Direct Flights From Delhi to Washington DC first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
New York City's Democratic mayoral nominee, Zohran Mamdani, brought his anti-Trump campaign swing to Staten Island on Wednesday, blasting President Donald Trump's signature immigration reform agenda.

Trump was once again front-and-center in the race for Gracie Mansion on Wednesday as Mamdani continued his "Five Boroughs Against Trump" tour at the Istanbul Bay Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant on Staten Island.

"As we gather here on an island, where nearly 1 in 4 were born outside of this country, an island where 30% of its residents speak a language other than English, it's an island that we know is not immune from this horrific crackdown. We are seeing from the Trump administration. We are seeing it and feeling it," Mamdani said. "And we know that it has nothing to do with safety. It has to do with punishment."

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While Trump campaigned for president last year on securing the border and deporting illegal immigrants, Mamdani is campaigning for mayor this year on protecting New York immigrant communities amid Trump's deportation rollout.

Joined by Staten Island District Staten Island District Leader, Jasmine Robinson, Immigration Rights Activist, Yesenia Matas, and President of the Staten Island Democratic Association, Ali Ansari, Mamdani focused Wednesday's event on Trumps "horrific attacks on New York Citys immigrant communities" in which he continues to "rip New Yorkers off the street without due process."

Mamdani Zings Cuomo In Rent-stabilized Housing Spat During Anti-trump Tour Stop

Read On The Fox News App

New York City mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, campaigns in New York City on April 16, 2025.

"It is not enough to fight against authoritarianism. What are you also fighting for? We are fighting to keep this city a sanctuary city," he said.

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Mamdani said earlier this month that New York City and the United States are facing a "dark moment." He then called the Trump administration an "authoritarian government" and slammed ICE for "abduct[ing]" immigrants."

According to Mamdani's campaign website, he is committed to "Trump-proofing NYC," by removing ICE from "all City facilities" and strengthening sanctuary city laws.

Zohran Mamdani Launches Anti-trump Tour Across Five Boroughs In New York City

Resistance to Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration dominated headlines during New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, in which Mamdani handily won in June.

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Primary contender and New York City Comptroller Brad Landerwhom Mamdani cross-endorsed and campaigned with in the primarywas arrested by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents in June after being accused of assaulting a federal officer as he tried to escort a migrant from their federal immigration court hearing.

While Lander ultimately faced no charges, the incident catapulted Trump's illegal immigration crackdown onto the New York City campaign trail.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies have arrested more than 80 illegal migrants, including several with criminal records, during a worksite enforcement operation at a Louisiana racetrack on June 17.

After being detained for several hours, Lander joined fellow primary candidates outside 26 Federal Plaza, an immigration facility in Manhattan, as Mamdani called the incident "fascism."

It was one such instance of elected officials being detained by federal immigration officials as they protested Trump's deportations, including Newark mayor Ras Baraka in neighboring New Jersey.

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Sen. Alex Padilla of California was also forcibly removed and handcuffed by federal agents earlier this year when he shouted questions about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids at DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during a press conference.

Protests rejecting ICE have erupted across the country this year, particularly in Los Angeles, where protests delved into riots, leading Trump to authorize the National Guard without Gov. Gavin Newsom's request  the first time in 60 years.

During incumbent Mayor Eric Adams' tenure, New York City became an epicenter of the migrant crisis as President Joe Biden's administration lifted COVID-era Title 42 expulsions and Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, began sending busloads of migrants to New York City from his border state.

As the situation unfolded, Adams began speaking out against Biden's immigration policies, calling New York City's migrant crisis a state of emergency.

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When Mamdani declared victory in the Democratic primary, he described his vision for New York Citys future as a place "where the mayor will use their power to reject Donald Trump's fascism, to stop mass ICE agents from deporting our neighbors and to govern our city as a model for the Democratic Party."

New York City Mayor Eric Adams arrives at Thurgood Marshall United States Courthouse in New York City on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024.

Meanwhile, Adams built a reputation during his tenure for challenging Biden's immigration policies while vowing to coordinate with Trump's illegal immigration crackdown, including working alongside Trump's border czar, Tom Homan.

Adams has also cozied up to Trump since he was elected in November, visiting both Mar-a-Lago and the White House. Trump's Justice Department dropped bribery, wire fraud and conspiracy charges against Adams earlier this year.

Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-N.Y., weighed removing Adams from office following a slew of City Hall resignations after Adams' case was dropped.

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Adams and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo are both running as independent candidates in New York City's mayoral race, and Curtis Sliwa is the Republican nominee. The election is on Nov. 4.

Fox News Digital's Andrew Mark Miller contributed to this report.





Original article source: Mamdani takes aim at Trump's immigration policies in fiery Staten Island speech: 'We are fighting to keep NYC a sanctuary city'
The Department of the Attorney General announced the conviction today of a 35-year-old man in the Oahu Circuit Court in a commercial sexual exploitation of a minor case.

A jury found Jessie Samejon guilty of one count of commercial sexual exploitation of a minor.

Samejon was arrested as part of a June 2, 2024 sting operation for soliciting sex from an undercover law enforcement officer posing online as a 15-year-old girl.

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He agreed to pay the girl $150 in exchange for sexual acts.

Samejon will face a sentence of up to 10 years for the Class B felony when he is sentenced Dec. 3 by Judge Rowena Somerville. He is required to register as a sex offender.

The arrest was part of Operation Keiki Shield, led by the Hawaii Internet Crimes Against Children, the Department of the Attorney General said in a news release.

Special Investigation and Prosecution Division Deputy Attorney General Benjamin Rose is lead prosecutor on this case.

We are grateful to the jury for its careful consideration of the evidence in this case,  acting Attorney General Matthew Dvonch said in a news release. This verdict sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable minors.

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Operation Keiki Shield is made up of officers, investigators and agents from the Department of the Attorney General, the Hawaii County Prosecutors Office, the Honolulu and Maui police departments, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Secret Service.

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A 37-year-old father of eight was stabbed to death on the Queens block where he lived and worked as a security guard, police and friends said Wednesday.

Brandon Williams got in a clash outside a row of single-room occupancy homes on Beach 115th St. near Rockaway Beach Blvd. in Rockaway Park about 9 p.m. Tuesday, cops said.

Williams grew up in the Bronx and had moved to the Rockaways about three years ago, his friend said.

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He lived in an SRO on Beach 115th St. and, for the last year and a half, worked as a night security guard for his building and two other SROs on the block.

He was stabbed in the chest and left wrist after telling a tenant in one of the buildings where he worked security that the tenant couldnt bring a woman up to his room after visiting hours, a close friend of Williams told the Daily News.

(The tenant) was trying to bring a girl up, said Brandons friend, who lives across the street from him and was one of the last people to see the victim alive. It was after hours. Tenants are not allowed to have overnight visitors.

This chick was drunk, yelling and screaming more loud than anybody, added the 51-year-old friend, who wished not to be named. (Brandon) was just trying to tell her like, You cant be on the property.'

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The friend calmed an outraged Brandon down, then went into his home to get a cord to a television he had given to his buddy earlier.

When he came back outside, cops had flooded the street and the area behind his home after the killer escaped through several backyards, said the man, who considered Brandon a nephew though theyre not related by blood.

People was out here and telling me my nephew got stabbed up, he said.

Eight minutes, thats all it took. he added, referring to the time it took him to get the power cord and go back outside. I should have never gone in the house.

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Medics rushed Williams to Jamaica Hospital, where he died.

On Wednesday, blood stains and discarded blue surgical gloves marked the spot in the middle of the street near what Williams was slain. His hat remained lying on the asphalt next to the blood stain.

I saw the knife and the blood, the friend said. It was a switchblade. The whole thing was probably six inches.

Cops on Wednesday were scouring Beach 115th St. for surveillance footage that could help them identify the killer, who has not been caught.

Williams had eight children, the oldest 19, the youngest about 3, friends said.

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Williams suffered from bipolar disorder and had a quick temper, which sometimes got him into trouble, his friend said.

He was just doing his job but he doesnt know how to express himself, the friend said. He expresses himself kind of abruptly. His delivery is really mad. He gets angry.

On a good day, the victim would give you the shirt off his back, the wife of Williams friend, who considered herself Williams auntie, recalled.

You needed a cigarette, and it was his last one, he was like Alright (take it),' she recalled. You needed something to drink? Dont worry, I got it, he would say.

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The whole situation couldve been handled a whole lot better, she said of the clash that led to his slaying. It never shouldve ended the way it did.

Williams was the second person to be murdered in the Rockaways in a week.

About 7:45 p.m. Aug. 6, a 39-year-old man was shot multiple times in the abdomen outside of the Hammel Houses on Rockaway Beach Blvd. near Beach 86th St., cops said. Medics rushed him to Brookdale University Hospital, but he could not be saved, cops said. No arrests have been made.

The victim was described by neighbors as a longtime resident of the NYCHA complex who walked up to six of his dogs at the same time.

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Six hours after that slaying, a 37-year-old man was shot in the stomach and left leg inside the lobby of a Hammel Houses building on the other side of the complex, near Rockaway Beach Blvd. and Beach 81st St. That victim survived.

The Hammel Houses killing was the first homicide to take place in the 100th Precinct this year while Williams slaying was the second.

An additional three people have been slain this year in the 101st Precinct, which covers Far Rockaway from Beach 59th St. east to the Long Island border.
ST. LOUIS  A man from Ohio was arrested this week after he was accused of defrauding a Missouri grocery store chain of $15 million worth of groceries.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Eastern District of Missouri, Muhammad Babar Chaudry, 46, owned a southern Ohio grocery chain called Sunshine Stores LLC during the alleged fraud.

The Missouri grocery chain, which has not been named, had licensed its brand to 38 of Chaudrys stores and provided them with groceries, which began in May 2021.

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Winner drawn for $650K St. Jude Dream Home

Two years later, in March 2023, Chaudry ordered $7.6 million in groceries and inventory from the Missouri chain with no intention of paying, according to the indictment.

Chaudry again ordered $7.5 million of inventory in April 2023 and repeatedly lied to the Missouri company about payment.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, one of Chaudrys employees was told to lie and said he was out of the country and later told the Missouri company fraudulent activity prevented their payment of inventory.

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Chaudry allegedly drained his bank accounts intentionally so the victim company could not withdraw funds. Chaudry then falsely claimed he was wiring the payments.

The U.S. Attorneys Office said there is a motion for Chaudry to be held in jail as he awaits trial after allegedly stealing $1 million worth of copper from a location of the victim company and pouring concrete down the sinks and drains of the store.

Chaudry has been charged with four counts of wire fraud and was arrested on Wednesday night. He was ordered to be held in jail until trial at a hearing in Detroit.

Chaudry could face up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both for wire fraud.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
One of the seven people facing state charges in connection with a series of fights Downtown on July 26 that spawned viral videos has been indicted on a federal gun charge.

A federal grand jury on Aug. 13 charged Montianez Merriweather, of South Cumminsville, with illegally possessing a gun because he is a convicted felon. The charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Montianez Merriweather, arms folded, at his arraignment in Hamilton County Municipal Court on July 30.

Merriweather, 34, is not accused of having the gun during the fights, which happened around 3 a.m. near Fourth and Elm streets.

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The federal charge surrounds the same allegations Merriweather already was facing in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court. He is accused of possessing a stolen, 9mm Smith and Wesson pistol. The gun was found "ready at hand" during a July 2 traffic stop, according to court documents.

At the time of the Downtown fights, Merriweather was out of jail after posting a $4,000 bond in the Hamilton County gun case.

He was arrested three days after the fights and has been detained at the Hamilton County Justice Center. He is being held on bonds totalling $900,000.

In connection with the fights, Merriweather faces charges including aggravated riot and felonious assault.

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Merriweather previously served seven years in prison following a robbery conviction that happened when he was 17 years old, officials have said.

At a July 30 arraignment, a Cincinnati police detective said video showed Merriweather walk up to a man who also has been charged in the fights, whisper something to him, then approach another man from behind before striking him in the face.

The federal charge was announced by U.S. Attorney Dominick Gerace II who was sworn in Aug. 11 as the top federal prosecutor for the southern half of Ohio.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Man charged in Cincinnati fights indicted on federal gun charge
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A man is facing multiple charges after allegedly setting fire to a home with four children inside.

Around 12:39 a.m. Aug. 12, the Baton Rouge Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 2500 block of Inverrary Drive. BRFD said the door had been forced open, and gasoline was poured and ignited in two areas of the home.

Witnesses, including the children, reported hearing the door being kicked in, smelling gasoline, and seeing flames as they escaped. According to BRFD, multiple witnesses said the suspect, Alfred Deon Jarvis Sr., 46, yelled, Everyone is going to die, while starting the fires.

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Officials said Jarvis was prohibited from entering the property due to two active protective orders. The victim told investigators that Jarvis had been at the home two days earlier and removed the Ring doorbell camera. Investigators also went through threatening messages and a voice recording in which Jarvis allegedly said he would kill the victim.

Man from Honduras arrested on child sex crimes charges; bond set at $2.5M

BRFD said the fire caused about $1,000 in damage.

The State Police Fugitive Task Force, East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office, and West Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office assisted in his arrest.

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Jarvis was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on charges of four counts of attempted first-degree murder and one count each of aggravated arson, home invasion, criminal trespass, and violation of protective orders.

The case remains under investigation.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A Baton Rouge man is accused of trying to run over his girlfriend with a vehicle.

The woman sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital.

Christian Coleman, 35, was charged with attempted second-degree murder and domestic abuse battery.

Christian Coleman

The East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office was called to the 5600 block of Cheryl Road around 2:40 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 10.

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When they arrived, they began an investigation into an attempted murder. As the investigation unfolded, EBRSO learned that Coleman arrived at a home to confront his live-in girlfriend regarding an ongoing domestic dispute.

According to the affidavit, the woman tried to get away but was punched by Coleman. She continued to try to get away, at which point Coleman ran her over with his vehicle, EBRSO said.

Authorities said vehicle track marks were around 200 feet from where the woman was hit.

An arrest report alleges the Baton Rouge man then kept the woman from seeking help at a business by blocking her.

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Coleman left the scene but was caught soon after by deputies. His vehicle was found in a wooded area not too far away, EBRSO confirmed.

Witnesses stated that Coleman and his girlfriend had a history of domestic violence incidents.

The Baton Rouge man denied hitting his girlfriend with the vehicle.

EBRSO said Coleman had an active warrant for battery of a dating partner through the Baton Rouge Police Department.

The sheriffs office said he was arrested previously on multiple occasions.

Woman in critical condition after early morning shooting in Baton Rouge, officials confirm

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
DENVER (KDVR)  A man who was wanted for allegedly providing alcohol to minors at a closed business in Estes Park and failing to register as a sex offender has turned himself in to police.

Last week, the Estes Park Police Department asked the public to contact law enforcement if anyone knew where 44-year-old David Morales was located.

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On Tuesday, Morales turned himself in to the Larimer County Jail, the police department said Wednesday in a post on Facebook.

The investigation began in February after a report that he allegedly held a party at the Twisted Griffin Pub and Restaurant, located at 247 W. Elkhorn Ave, which was permanently closed at the time. The report alleged that Morales was serving alcohol to minors.

The police department said that 14 underage victims were identified and interviewed throughout the investigation.

Police said the investigation also revealed that Morales failed to register as a sex offender as required by Colorado law after moving out of Estes Park following the alleged incident.

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Warrants issued last week for his arrest included charges for:

Failure to register as a sex offender  F5 (2 counts)

Contributing to the delinquency of a minor  M1 (9 counts)

Unlawful acts  M2 (5 counts)

The police department said on Wednesday that Morales is in custody at the Larimer County Jail and the Larimer County Court assigned him a bond of $15,000.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Grandview, Missouri, man is in custody after investigators said he shot a woman near a Belton neighborhood early Monday morning.

According to the Cass County Sheriffs Office, just after 1 a.m., deputies were called to a shooting near East 164th Terrace and Oak Street.

When deputies and officers with the Belton Police Department arrived, they found a woman who had been shot and took her to a hospital to be treated.

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Leavenworth mother found guilty in death of 1-year-old daughter

After the shooting, Cass County deputies and Belton police worked to find a suspect and determine the events that led up to the shooting.

At about 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday, deputies with the Criminal Apprehension Unit, along with officers from the Kansas City Police Department, arrested 41-year-old Jeffrey Arzola, of Grandview.

Arzola was returned to Cass County and charged with unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. He is currently being held without bond in the county jail.

Police have not yet identified the victim or the extent of her injuries.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man facing a firearms charge in federal court after being arrested earlier this year by city police for firing a gun outside a store pleaded guilty Tuesday.

George Buchanan, 55, entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Benita Y. Pearson in the U.S. Northern District Court of Ohio to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Sentencing is set for Dec. 2.

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The charge stems from a March 14 arrest after police were called at 12:10 a.m. to a store at the corner of Market Street and East Midlothian Boulevard for a report of gunfire. When they arrived, an employee told officers a man, later identified as Buchanan, was refused service in the store because he appeared to be drunk, so Buchanan went outside and fired two shots in the air before driving away.

Police found the car Buchanan was in at a 3200 Market St. gas station, and he was taken into custody there at gunpoint, reports said. He also appeared to be drunk, reports said.

Reports said inside the car, police found a loaded .380-caliber semiautomatic handgun. At the store, police found a .380 shell casing in the parking lot, reports said.

In 2017, Buchanan was sentenced in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to four years in prison for shooting and wounding a man during an argument over a tricycle at an apartment in the 100 block of East Midlothian Boulevard.

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SOUTH ELGIN, Ill. (WGN)  A South Elgin man was arrested Tuesday evening after an armed altercation with two juveniles on school grounds, police say.

Officers with the South Elgin Police Department were dispatched to a School District U-46 campus in the 700 block of Mill Street at 5:30 p.m. on reports of a man with a weapon.

Police say dispatch advised that the man had entered the school armed with a knife and was also seen driving in the parking lot.

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Officers met with two juvenile victims and a relative, who said they had been riding electric scooters in the parking lot when a vehicle cut them off. After a verbal exchange, everyone dispersed.

According to police, the juveniles later returned to take a photo of the vehicles license plate when the suspect, identified as Brandon J. Mumme, 43, who was at the school working for a contracted cleaning service, came back outside.

Mumme pulled out a pocket-size knife during the second confrontation, threatened the juveniles and advanced toward them, police say. The juveniles fled and called 911.

Officers located Mumme near his vehicle, and he was taken into police custody without incident. Authorities say he later admitted to pulling out the knife and chasing the juveniles.

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Following the investigation, Mumme was charged with:

Aggravated Assault on Public Property

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon

He was processed and released with a court date, police say. He was also served with a trespass notice banning him from any School District U-46 property.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  During the daylight hours is the only time a Campus East homeowner can get rest.

I dont sleep at night, said Campus East resident Quennie Burns. I havent slept since that night because I keep thinking Im hearing things.

Burns sense of security was shattered just before midnight late last Thursday night when she got an alert from her backdoor camera, only to find a man half-naked, outside her kitchen door.

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He had only a  long T-shirt, she said. Something was in his hand, there was two items. And its like something was hanging from his hand, and then some object was in his hand, and he was doing, like, sexual movements.

Horrified, Burns dialed 911 and her next door neighbor.

 I realized he didnt have pants on, she said. So he walked towards my neighbors house.  Once I get her on the phone, she looked at her camera, he was trying to get in her door.

Two officers responded to the scene, and a third officer responded Friday afternoon when Burns called for an update on the investigation.

The person then appeared to go to Tirza Cortezs house.

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Yes he did, because I saw him on camera, Cortez said. Where is the suspect? Walk to the door. And he came right here, and, like, came over here to pull it open. He couldnt get it, and he turned back around and left.

To her, it appeared he was trying to break in.

You could see everything when he reached the door, Cortez said. And I said, the door was unlocked. He could come in the house, and who knows? Go rape me and kill me, dont know what.

Cortez said she wouldnt be surprised if the man had visited other homes in the neighborhood. She cautioned people to be careful and be sure to lock their doors, gates and everything else. She thinks about what could have happened.

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Several hours later, about a mile away on Finespun Last, a woman known to the Burns family caught a suspect late that night on surveillance video. Burns son viewed video from both crime scenes.

My son did a side-by-side comparison, Burns said. It was same person. It was definitely the same person.

Joshua Ruddell (Photo  Virginia Beach Sheriffs Office)

Tuesday afternoon, Virginia Beach Police said they had arrested Joshua Ruddell, 37, of Virginia Beach on one misdemeanor count of indecent exposure stemming from an Aug. 7 incident in the Campus East neighborhood, and he was also served with a trespassing warrant stemming from a July 23 incident.

Officers had canvassed the area, and after speaking with multiple people, found evidence that supports the active charges. Anyone with further information or evidence about Ruddell is asked to contact the Virginia Beach Police Detective Bureau at 757-385-4141.

Download the WAVY News App to keep up with the latest news, weather and sports from WAVY-TV 10. Available in both the Apple and Google Play stores.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
A British man who advertised waste-removal services is now in jail after being caught dumping trash on a rural road, the BBC reported.

Dwayne Simpson, 22, was sentenced to 13 weeks in jail after being convicted of illegally dumping waste and not having the proper documentation to carry waste.

According to Derbyshire County officials, Simpson promoted a waste-removal business on social media and was paid for those services by at least two people. However, a person caught Simpson "fly-tipping"  illegally disposing of household or industrial waste  on a rural road in Eckington, a small town southeast of Sheffield.

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That citizen jotted down the offending car's license plate number, which, along with details found in some of the dumped trash, led officials to Simpson. He pleaded not guilty to three counts of dumping trash but was found guilty in a trial earlier this year and sentenced to jail time in July.

Along with the jail sentence, Simpson was ordered to pay a fine of more than $5,800 and reimburse $185 to the people who paid him to remove the waste.

"Rogue operators who ignore the law and blight our communities will be investigated and prosecuted," Stephen Pickering, councillor for environmental services, told the BBC.

Illegal dumping is a common problem in the United Kingdom. Officials reported 1.14 million incidents between April 2023 and March 2024, a 6% increase over the previous year.

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Roughly 60% of those illegal dumping incidents involved household waste, and they happened most frequently on highways. All of these incidents can cause major community and environmental damage, as the toxins and chemicals contained in waste can seep into soil and waterways, posing a threat to the locals, ecosystem, and wildlife.

In recent months, several such cases have made national news in the UK.

In Lichfield, a man is accused of dumping about 30 tons of waste in the middle of the road and faces up to seven years in prison. Another man was caught dumping large pieces of plastic foam on a farm, and trash has even been illegally dumped at a Birkenhead cemetery.

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.
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP)  Three men have been arrested and charged after one person was injured in a shooting earlier this month, according to Greensboro police.

On Aug. 4 at 9:17 p.m., officers responded to a shooting in the 2000 block of Veasley Street, but no victim was located. A gunshot victim with non-life-threatening injuries arrived at the hospital via private vehicle shortly afterwards.

On Wednesday, Tyrone Lee Harris, 49, of Greensboro, was arrested and served with warrants for the following charges:

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Attempted first-degree murder

possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Felony carrying a concealed weapon

Felony conspiracy and

Discharging a firearm within the city limits

Harris is currently being held in the Guilford County Jail.

Two other men were arrested on Aug. 5 in connection with the shooting.

Freddie Malik Carter, 19, was charged with:

attempted first-degree murder

discharging a firearm within the city limits

possession of marijuana up to a  ounce

Travis Lavar Lee Clark, 46, was charged with:

felony conspiracy

assault by pointing a gun

carrying a concealed gun

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 New York man was charged with allegedly cyberstalking a family member of the slain former UnitedHealthcare CEO, according to a complaint filed by the Justice Department on Wednesday.

Shane Daley, 40, of Galway, New York, allegedly left four voicemails over the course of multiple days for an unnamed member of Brian Thompson's family.

Luigi Mangione was charged in the brazen shooting of Thompson in December 2024 that unfolded in the middle of New York City and captured the nation's attention. Prosecutors say Mangione allegedly targeted Thompson for his role at the healthcare company.

Stephen Maturen/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this Dec. 4, 2024, file photo, flags fly at half mast outside the United Healthcare corporate headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

The voicemails allegedly left by Daley, according to the DOJ, are "threatening" and left the member of Thompson's family scared for her life.

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"Your [family member] got lit the f--- up cause he's a f------ asshole," Daley allegedly said in a voicemail left on Dec. 4, 2024, the same day of Thompson's killing, according to the complaint.

MORE: UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting suspect's timeline before, during, after the brazen murder

"Profiting off the f------, off the backs of poor Americans. This s--- is gonna keep happening to you f------ pricks. F--- you."

In another voicemail, Daley allegedly shared a hostile message that Thompson's family member should tell his children.

"Their dad died cause he was a f------ capitalist. $10.2 million a year, f------ insider trading b----. Making a f------ off of the backs of poor Americans. You all deserve to f------ die and burn and hell. F--- you. F--- your f------ kids."

Curtis Means/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this Feb. 21, 2025, file photo, Luigi Mangione appears at a hearing for the murder of UHC CEO Brian Thompson at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York.

MORE: Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to federal charges in CEO killing

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"Brian Thompson was gunned down in midtown Manhattan," Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III released a statement along with the DOJ complaint, saying, Daley, "...Gleefully welcomed this tragedy and did all that he could to increase the Thompson family's pain and suffering."

"My office and its partners will now do all that we can to hold him accountable for this vicious and outrageous conduct," Sarcone said.

Mangione has been indicted on federal charges accusing him of stalking Thompson outside the Hilton in Midtown Manhattan and then shooting him to death on Dec. 4, 2024.

Thompson was heading to an investors' conference when he was shot and killed. Mangione was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania, five days later.

Mangione pleaded not guilty to the four-count federal indictment in April. He is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial.
The post Man charged in fatal car accident involving two HBCU alumni speaks out appeared first on ClutchPoints.

A man charged with the death of two HBCU alumni has spoken for the first time since the incident in an interview with KHOU. Rene Hernandez is charged with two counts of murder of Florida A&M alumni and Kappa Alpha Psi members Ronnie Burns II and Jayden Flemming. Both of them were recent graduates of the Tallahassee-based HBCU and had attended the Texas Greek Picnic.

The crash occurred when Hernandez, driving a black Ford F-150, was fleeing from police and collided with a white Lexus. The Lexus, which had the right-of-way at a four-way stop, was hit with force, resulting in a fiery crash that killed both passengers. Prior to the fatal collision, the driver had also struck other vehicles, according to KHOU.

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At the time, Precinct 7 deputy constables were pursuing Hernandez, who they claimed had crashed into another vehicle after running several red lights. According to court documents, the suspect had been drinking alcohol.

Following the devastating news, the Florida A&M and broader HBCU community took to social media to mourn. Social media has been filled with heartfelt condolences and tributes, honoring the two young men for their ambition, dedication, and contributions to Florida A&M.

In his comments to KHOU, Hernandez expressed remorse and forgiveness.

Im sorry, and that I hope that the Lord forgives me, and I hope the Lord is with them in their pain and their suffering. And it was never intentional, and thats my biggest grief right now is just the victims families.

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Ronnie Burns Sr., the father of Ronnie Burns II, accepted his apology in a statement, saying, Its understandable. Us, as a family, I speak for the family, we accept that. We accept his apology.

Burns mother also spoke out, saying, It was senseless, but everybody makes mistakes, so you know what Im saying? Im hurt. This was just the dumbest thing that he could have done, ever in life,

Related: Is the Florida A&M vs. Mississippi Valley State game in Atlanta at risk?

Related: Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson preview Norfolk State, Delaware State in Philadelphia
MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  A man was booked into the Madison County Jail on Saturday for pretending to be an officer and defrauding over $7,000 through a telephone scam in 2021, the sheriffs office said.

On September 11, 2021, deputies responded to a report of a phone scam in which the victim said they had been tricked into paying $7,500 by someone posing as law enforcement.

Limestone County Sheriffs Office to host civilian firearm class in September

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The suspect, later identified as 36-year-old Christopher Andrews, used a spoofed line that matched MSCOs main line and claimed the victim had a failure-to-appear warrant for a federal case.

MCSO said that the suspect told the victim to make several payments via Apple Pay and Green Dot money cards to avoid being arrested.

Through the course of an investigation, officials were able to identify Andrews as the suspect. He was located earlier this month in Escambia County, Florida.

Andrews was arrested and charged with impersonating a peace officer and theft by deception. He is at the Madison County Jail with a collective bond of $30,000.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
A 41-year-old man was arrested and charged on Wednesday after an incident at Sydney's Kingsford Smith Airport during which a police weapon was also discharged, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said.

The AFP said that officers were called to the T2 domestic terminal at 6 am on Wednesday (2200 GMT Tuesday) in response to "a request for assistance from an airline about a man allegedly acting suspiciously."

"When officers tried to speak to the man, he allegedly became verbally and physically aggressive and was subsequently arrested," the statement said, adding that a police firearm was "unintentionally discharged" during the arrest.

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"An investigation has been launched into the cause of the discharge, and a crime scene has been established. No one was injured," the statement continued.

The man, from the neighbouring Australian state of Victoria, was charged with "one count of obstruct/hinder/intimidate/resist an official, which carries a maximum penalty of up to two years in prison, and one count of creating a disturbance at an airport, which can result in a fine of $3,300 Australian ($2,155 US).

"The AFP does not tolerate antisocial or aggressive behaviour at airports and our aviation officers acted swiftly after receiving a request for assistance from an airline," AFP Acting Commander Scott Raven said.

"The AFP is investigating the circumstances around the discharge of the weapon however the alleged actions of this man and aggressiveness towards police created a volatile situation."

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport features two domestic terminals and one international one.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers are seen near Gate 49 at the T2 terminal of Sydney Domestic Airport after a man was arrested when a police firearm was discharged inside the airport. Bianca De Marchi/AAP/dpa
NEED TO KNOW

A hiker has died in Tennessee after picking up a rattlesnake

Emergency workers responded to the fatal incident around 12:30 p.m. local time on Friday, August 8 on a trail at Savage Gulf State Park

The victim was transported to a hospital but later died from his injuries, according to officials

A man died in Tennessee after getting bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking at a state park, local authorities said.

Emergency personnel responded to the fatal incident around 12:30 p.m. local time on Friday, August 8, a spokesperson for the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency told PEOPLE in a statement.

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The hiker, who has not been publicly identified, was about a half mile down a trail at Savage Gulf State Park when he was bitten.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Officials said that according to witnesses, the man grabbed a rattlesnake, believed to be a timber rattlesnake, which then bit his hand.

Timber rattlesnake bites are rare, according to the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institude.

"Though it may strike if necessary, the timber rattlesnake is more docile than other members of its family and is more likely to stay coiled or stretched out, motionless when encountered in the wild," according to a post on the institute's website. "Like other vipers, the timber rattlesnake is venomous with venom potent enough to kill a human. A timber rattlesnake bite is a medical emergency."

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CPR was initiated and the victim was transported to a hospital, but later died from his injuries, authorities told PEOPLE. An official cause of death has not been released.

"The family of the individual will be in our thoughts and prayers," said Grundy County EMA Director Matthew Griffith, who thanked first responders for their efforts to save the man.

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.

Griffith went on to encourage people to "be mindful of wildlife and the dangers that some wildlife may pose," during outdoor recreation activities.

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"If you encounter a snake, simply remain calm and do not attempt to handle it," the official added. "If bitten, seek immediate medical attention."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 7,000 to 8,000 people across the country are bitten by venomous snakes annually. About five of those victims die.



Read the original article on People
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  A citizen from the Dominican Republic was sentenced to three years in prison on Tuesday after being arrested in Orange for trafficking fentanyl.

3 arrested after police watch alleged drug deals at Meriden Green

Christian Andres Tejada Segura, 26, was arrested on May 24, 2023 after he had traveled to Connecticut and was found to have approximately 473 grams of fentanyl on him. According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arranged a fentanyl purchase undercover, and Tejada Segura was arrested as a result of the investigation.

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Tejada pleaded guilty on April 4 to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

Tejada Segura was sentenced to three months in prison followed by 18 months of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $20,000 fine.

Tejada, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on September 11.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
A man who admitted to running a van into a tent of President Donald Trump supporters in Jacksonville in 2020 is now charged with first-degree assault in connection with a shooting on Seattles waterfront that happened in July.

Prosecutors in King County, Washington, say Gregory Timm, 32, approached a man in a wheelchair near Pier 55, claiming the man had stolen valor, and Timm demanded that the man provide identification.

Video released by prosecutors shows the shooting happened in broad daylight, with many people, including children, in the area.

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While the man was opening his wallet, Timm took a veteran patch from the mans belongings, prosecutors said.

This caused the victim to arm himself with a knife. The defendant continued to demand the victim show him his ID, and the victim pulled out a holstered airsoft gun, court documents state.

Video released by prosecutors shows Timm pulling something out of a backpack he was carrying.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

Before the victim could do anything with the knife or airsoft gun, Timm pulled out his handgun, pointed it at the victim, and shot him point-blank in the chest, court documents say.

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Prosecutors called the shooting a completely unnecessary act of violence committed by the defendant to a vulnerable victim who was confined to his wheelchair.

In the 2020 case of Timm running into the tent of Trump supporters, he was found guilty of criminal mischief in April 2021 and was sentenced to 60 days in jail, which he had already served.

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

For the Seattle shooting, Action News Jaxs sister station KIRO reports that Timm is being held on $750,000 bail.

Prosecutors in Washington said Timm is likely to commit a violent offense if released from custody.

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KIRO reports that prosecutors said a person cannot claim self-defense if they provoked it. Timm is due back in court on August 18, KIRO said.

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.
(FREMONT COUNTY, Colo.)  A man who helped his brother escape from the Fremont County Jail will not spend any time in jail, according to court records.

38-year-old Kyle VanVliet was arrested on June 26 on a felony warrant for aiding escape, after his brother, 45-year-old Kegan VanVliet, escaped from the Fremont County Jail.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Second arrest made in Fremont County Jail escape

Kegan VanVliet was captured in Colorado Springs later on the same day as the escape, thanks in part to infrared technology utilized by the Colorado State Patrol as well as assistance from a K9 Officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD).

Mugshot of Kegan VanVliet. Courtesy: Fremont County Sheriffs Office

Kyle VanVliet. Courtesy: Fremont County Sheriffs Office

After taking a plea deal, Kyle VanVliet was issued a deferred sentence, meaning if he fulfills the stipulations surrounding his two-year probation, a judge could clear the incident from his record.

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Man sentenced to 6 years in DOC for Fremont Jail escape

In March, Kegan VanVliet agreed to plead guilty to escape charges and was sentenced to six years in the Colorado 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
Anthony Blackwood was jailed for 13 and a half years at Sheffield Crown Court on Tuesday [South Yorkshire Police]

A man who invited a passer-by into his flat and then attacked him with a metal pole has been jailed for 13 and a half years.

Anthony Blackwood, 46, of Scotia Drive, Sheffield, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on Tuesday after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent.

He met his victim on City Road on 8 February and invited him to stay with him. He then attacked the man, leaving him with life-threatening brain injuries, South Yorkshire Police said.

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Det Con Kevin Sibley said: "Violence of this kind has no place in our communities and we will take swift action against individuals like Blackwood in order to keep members of the public safe."

Blackwood tried to cover up the attack by cleaning up the scene and changing his clothes, according to police.

Neighbours phoned the emergency services and when Blackwood was arrested, he claimed the victim had hit his own head on a sideboard.

Officers discovered Blackwood was telling a "false version of events" after forensic evidence showed the man had been struck repeatedly and also had a stab wound in his stomach.

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"We also sought expert medical evidence from a forensic pathologist who affirmed that a blunt heavy weapon was used, with the victim suffering a complex depressed skull fracture and bleeding on the surface of the brain," Mr Sibley said.

He added that the victim was "fortunate to be alive" following the attack.

Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North

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A man who tried to murder a toddler by stepping in front of a moving train while carrying the boy on his shoulders has been jailed for 10 years.

Frederick Danquah took the two-year-old to Garrowhill railway station, in the east end of Glasgow, in July 2023 after he had split from his partner.

They were struck by the train and taken to hospital but the child was left with minor grazes and has since fully recovered.

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Danquah, 28, was convicted of attempted murder last month, after claiming he was unable to appreciate his actions due to mental illness.

The High Court in Glasgow heard that he was deemed to have an "adjustment disorder", but was not at a level which absolved him of being criminally responsible.

Judge Tony Kelly said he had read an emotional impact statement from the boy's mother.

He told Danquah: "You endangered the life of the boy, You intended to take his life.

"You meant to have his mother to attend his funeral."

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Jurors heard how Danquah had struggled to accept his relationship with his partner was over and that they had continued to live together.

They also heard that the ex-partner had discussed a new relationship she was in and had made it clear they were not getting back together.

On the day of the incident, 2 July 2023, Danquah had collected the child from another address in the city and posted a message on Facebook saying he could not "continue to live in this darkness".

He was spotted carrying the boy as he tried to climb over fence of a bridge in Anderston overlooking M8 motorway.

He was spoken to by a police officer and allowed to leave the area.

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Danquah then went on to Garrowhill station where he, carrying the child, stepped in front of a train pulling into the station at about 19:20.

The child suffered grazes or bruises on the forehead, head, back, face and nose - and was described as looking shocked in the hospital.

Danquah sustained fractures to his lower spine and his jaw.

After the incident, Danquah was held at a mental health clinic in Glasgow before being discharged.

Gary Allan KC, defending, said what happened was "wholly out of character".

Ch Insp Marc Francey said the child was now doing well, though officers could have "easily been looking at a very different investigation".

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The British Transport Police officer added: "Danquah's actions that day were incomprehensible.

"He deliberately put a young child's life in extreme danger and it is only through sheer luck that he wasn't seriously injured or killed."
CHICAGO  Authorities are searching for answers on Wednesday after a man was killed in an early-morning shooting on the citys North Side.

According to Chicago police, the deadly shooting unfolded just after 2 a.m. in the 1600 block of West Estes Avenue in Rogers Park.

Victim pulled from Lake Michigan on North Side dies

Officers said the victim, a 32-year-old man, was outside in the area when an unidentified male approached and pulled out a gun just before firing several shots in the victims direction.

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Police say the victim suffered multiple gunshot and was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but was later pronounced dead.

Currently, it is unclear what led to the shooting and officers say no arrests have been made.

Lawsuit alleges CPS violated policy hiring security guard now accused of sexual assault

An investigation into the deadly shooting is now underway.

Anyone with information on the deadly shooting is asked to contact CPD Area Three Detectives at 312-744-8263 or dial 911.

Those with information that could help authorities in their investigation can also leave a tip at CPDtip.com. Tips can be filed anonymously.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
RAMONA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  A man who killed the tenant of his girlfriend in 2020 over a rent dispute in East County has been sentenced to prison, San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said.

Michael Hughes, 75, has been sentenced to 50 years-to-life in prison for fatally shooting Mario Velasquez Cardoso, 46. Last September, a jury found him guilty of first-degree murder.

DA Stephan said Hughes drove to Cardosos home in Ramona in November of 2020. His girlfriend was the landlord of the house and had been involved in a dispute with Cardosos family for months, authorities said.

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Suspect arrested after robbery at Chase Bank in South Bay

In the weeks leading up to the fatal shooting, Hughes reportedly removed a surveillance camera that would have captured footage of the killer, the district attorney stated.

He then closed a gate at the driveway of the home in order to force Cardoso to have to exit his vehicle and open it, the DA continued. As Cardoso tried to open the gate so he could go to work, Hughes fired a single shot which killed Cardoso and then left the scene.

Sheriffs homicide detectives identified Hughes as a suspect and contacted him 16 hours after the shooting. However, authorities said there was not enough evidence to arrest him at that time, according to the district attorney.

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It was clear Hughes carefully planned the murder. He conducted reconnaissance on the house, tested his rifle in the days leading up to the murder, disposed of the murder weapon, wiped his computer history, and attempted to place blame on an innocent third party, DA Stephan said in a statement.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
VERMILION COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA)  10 months after he was arrested, a man pleaded guilty to attempted armed violence in the Vermilion County Circuit Court and sentenced to seven years in prison.

The Vermilion County States Attorneys Office said 29-year-old Aaron Rice of Ohio entered his plea to attempted armed violence on Aug. 8.

Man sentenced for 2024 armed robbery in Danville

Evidence presented in court indicates that on Oct. 1, 2024, law enforcement learned that Rice was wanted on an active warrant out of Ohio. Agents observed Rice in the Liberty Elementary School playground area after school hours.

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Then, a vehicle arrived, Rice got into the backseat and the car drove away.

Officers stopped the vehicle and took Rice into custody. After searching the car, they found a .40 caliber handgun inside a jacket that belonged to Rice. Law enforcement also searched Rice and found a bag with .8 grams of cocaine.

Rice was sentenced to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. After which, he will serve one year of mandatory 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 WCIA.com.




NEED TO KNOW

A Chinese man is facing jail after pleading guilty to attempting to smuggle around 850 turtles into Hong Kong

The reptiles, worth approximately $1.4 million, were hidden inside socks

Wei Qiang Lin, of Brooklyn, New York, falsely labelled the live turtles as toys





A Chinese man is facing jail after pleading guilty to exporting parcels containing around 850 turtles worth approximately $1.4 million to Hong Kong, authorities have said.

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On Monday, Aug. 11, Wei Qiang Lin, of Brooklyn, New York, appeared in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York after being accused of "falsely labeling live turtles as fake toys prior to exporting them in delivery boxes on a weeks-long journey to Hong Kong," per a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) press release.

Court records stated that "between August 2023 and November 2024, Lin exported to Hong Kong approximately 222 parcels containing around 850 turtles, but he labeled the boxes as containing 'plastic animal toys,' among other things," the release noted.

Authorities added that the approximate market value of the turtles was $1.4 million.

McDonald Wildlife Photography Inc./Getty A photo of an eastern box turtle A photo of an eastern box turtle

Law enforcement officials "intercepted the turtles during a border inspection and observed them bound and taped inside knotted socks within the shipping boxes," per the release, which added that Lin had "also exported 11 other parcels filled with reptiles, including venomous snakes."

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Lin primarily shipped eastern box turtles and three-toed box turtles, which are native U.S. species featuring colorful markings.

The markings make the animals "a prized feature in the domestic and foreign pet market, particularly in China and Hong Kong," the release stated.

The DOJ added of the two breeds, "Both are protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) as a result of the illegal export of tens of thousands of box turtles every year during the 1990s."

The suspect "faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gain or loss from the illegal activity," per the release. He's scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 23.

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"As part of his plea, Lin also agreed to abandon any property interest in the reptiles seized during the investigation," the DOJ said.

The DOJ didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information.

Photograph by Bernhard J Mueller-Anderson/Getty A photo of an eastern box turtle A photo of an eastern box turtle

The guilty plea comes after Chinese national, Sai Keung Tin, also known as Ricky Tin, was sentenced to 30 months in prison in March "for his role in smuggling protected turtles from the United States to Hong Kong," the DOJ said in a press release at the time.

"Tin pleaded guilty in December to four counts of exporting merchandise contrary to law," the release noted, adding that the eastern box turtles were estimated to be worth around $2,000 each.

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"According to the governments filed sentencing memorandum and evidence presented during [the] hearing, Tin, a Chinese citizen, aided and abetted turtle smugglers in the United States from February 2018 to June 2023," the DOJ said.

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"During that time, Tin trafficked approximately 2,100 turtles to three addresses in Hong Kong for the illegal Asian pet trade," the previous release added, stating that Tin's packages had been "falsely labeled as containing almonds and chocolate cookies."



Read the original article on People
Man raped girl, 15, after she became separated from friends, charges say originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

A northern Minnesota man is accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl whom he offered to escort home after she became separated from her friends in International Falls last month.

Cody Jay Austin Fremstad-Strong, 28, of International Falls, is charged in Koochiching County with two counts of 3rd-degree criminal sexual conduct in connection with the incident.

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According to the criminal complaint, the victim told investigators she'd been drinking alcohol and became separated from her friends while walking home in the early morning hours of July 17.

Charges state she stopped to sit on the curb when Fremstad-Strong approached her saying he'd assist her home.

Instead, Fremstad-Strong allegedly took the victim to his apartment and sexually assaulted her.

According to the complaint, the victim recalls asking "what's happening" and "where am I?" during the assault.

Credit: aaron_anderer via Flickr

The girl did not know Fremstad-Strong, but described the apartment to investigators.

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During the investigation, officers allegedly located security camera footage showing Fremstad-Strong walking the victim towards his apartment.

If convicted of both charges, he faces up to 30 years in prison.

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
A man convicted of multiple offences including raping a nine-year old girl has been handed a 13-year sentence.

The judge told Jason Harkness, 31, of Drum Road, Cookstown, that despite his continued claims of innocence, the offences he committed indicated he had a "deviant sexual interest in children".

Harkness was sentenced for a total of 15 offences, including raping and both sexually and physically assaulting the girl, as well as possessing indecent images of children and extreme pornographic images.

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Harkness was sentenced at Dungannon Crown Court, sitting in Belfast, and he will spend half of the time in jail, with the rest served on licence.

Harkness stood trial in Dungannon last year and, despite his claims that the young victim was making up allegations against him, he was convicted in November 2024.

During the trial, the jury heard how his offending emerged when the child became upset during a well-being lesson in school in September 2021 and made disclosures to a teacher.

An investigation was launched and in December 2021, the child spoke to the police and outlined the abuse she suffered over a period from 2019 to 2021.

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This included being sexually abused in the shower and being raped when she was nine.

The police praised the girl for her bravery in giving evidence in court.

Harkness will be placed on the sex offenders register and will be the subject of a sexual offences prevention order.

Both of these court orders are for an indefinite period.
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WSPA) A man has been sentenced to over 20 years in prison for a shooting at an east Asheville hotel in February, which left two people seriously injured.

22-year-old Edzavious Javon Lindsay pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of attempted first-degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.

The incident occurred the night of February 24 at a hotel on Tunnel Road, where police found two victims with gunshot wounds.

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Officers reported locating a man with wounds to the chest and leg, while a female victim had injuries that severed her sciatic nerve. Her two-year-old daughter was asleep nearby during the shooting, according to police.

At the time of the incident, Lindsay was out on pretrial release for armed robbery and other charges in South Carolina, for which he had failed to appear in court for those cases.

Lindsay was apprehended in West Asheville on March 4 after fleeing the scene. He was held without bond due to violations of the Pretrial Integrity Act.

Superior Court Judge Alan Thornburg issued the sentence, which includes two consecutive prison terms totaling over 250 months.

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Officials said both victims appeared in court and expressed satisfaction with Lindsays plea.

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The Brief

Tampa police rescued a man from a burning home on Saturday night.

Officers ran toward the smoke at the home on N. Highlands to save the man.

No one was seriously injured.

TAMPA - Tampa police officers helped save a man's life after a fire broke out at a home in Tampa.

Officers ran toward the smoke at a home in the 8400 block of N. Highlands Ave. on Saturday night.

Thick, dark clouds of smoke poured out of the home.

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You could hear one woman calling for help on one officer's body camera footage. She told officers that her brother was still inside the house.

Courtesy: Tampa Police Department

The other family members had made it out of the house already.

Police raced into the home and yelled out to the man who was trapped inside.

Officers got low to the ground and made contact with the man a few feet away, before they were able to drag him out of the home.

Tracking the Tropics: Tropical Storm Erin moving west, expected to become first Atlantic

Tampa Fire Rescue got to the scene and was able to put the fire out.

Police say everyone was treated for smoke inhalation, but is doing okay.

The fire was deemed accidental, but Tampa Fire Rescue is still trying to figure out what caused the fire.

The Source

FOX 13's Kylie Jones gathered the information for this story.




NEED TO KNOW

A man is Australia has shared his horror at finding his pregnant neighbor and her partner dead inside their home in Melbourne, Australia, on Monday, Aug. 11

Athena Georgopoulos, 39, who was five months pregnant, was found next to her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, who was decapitated

"No one should have to come across what I saw down there," neighbor Ben Scott-Sandvik told local media outlet the Herald Sun





Neighbors are reflecting on the gruesome murders of a man and woman on their street in Melbourne, Australia.

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PEOPLE previously reported that Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, were found brutally murdered inside their home on Monday, Aug. 11.

Georgopoulos  who was five months pregnant at the time of the killings, per local outlets news.com.au and The Age  was found next to Gunn, who was allegedly found decapitated with his head on a spike in an apartment in Mount Waverley. The home was also covered in graffiti.

Neighbor Ben Scott-Sandvik, who lives in an apartment in the block, shared his shock over finding the couple's bodies.

Nigel Killeen/Getty Stock image of a police care Stock image of a police care

I mean, no one should have to come across what I saw down there, he told the Herald Sun, per news.com.au.

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And nobody needs to live knowing that this sort of thing has happened to their families," he added.

Dimmi, who knew Georgopoulos and her mother, also expressed her sadness.

I came back and said to my husband, some murder happened here, Dimmi told news.com.au after finding out about the murder on Facebook. On Monday when it happened, I went to bed around 12 oclock and didnt hear anything.

She added, I didnt even know she lives there. Im Greek too, so I was so close to her mother, but didnt see her for about 10 months.

Ive been here for 25 years, I walk along this street all the time but never saw her, Dimmi continued. Im going to ring her mum, Im in shock now.

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The neighbor said that she knew Georgopoulos when she was a child, adding that she used to come to my house all the time.

She was a lovely girl. A very nice girl. Im so, so sad, Dimmi concluded.

Facebook Athena Georgopoulos Athena Georgopoulos

Athena's mother Petty Georgopoulos paid tribute to her late daughter on social media, according to the Australian Broadcasting Network (ABC).

"I will not cease to always love you," she wrote in Greek on Facebook, per the outlet. Until we meet again my daughter, in the angel's light."

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Authorities arrested a suspect at a train station around four miles from the crime scene just hours after the bodies were found, according to news.com.au.

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According to The Age and 9News, the suspect had blood on his shirt at the time of his arrest.

The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Ross Judd, who is unhoused, was charged with two counts of murder, per news.com.au.

Police told members of the media gathered outside the home on Monday night that the murder suspect appeared to have been known to the couple  though authorities have not described the nature of their relationship, per The Age.

Homicide Squad detectives were called to an address in Adrienne Crescent where a 39-year-old Mount Waverley woman and a 50-year-old Mount Waverley man were located deceased about 9.55pm on Monday evening, Victoria Police said in a statement on Facebook on Tuesday. A 34-year-old man was arrested at Westall train station about 1.40am yesterday morning.

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He has since been charged and will appear before Melbourne Magistrates Court today," the statement added.

PEOPLE has contacted Victoria Police for further comment.

Read the original article on People
A member of the Roma (Gypsy) community, who reported being threatened by a man wielding a knuckle-duster in what police treated as a racially motivated hate crime, has said he and others are living in fear.

The man, who is being referred to as Florin to protect his identity, said the incident happened near his home in County Armagh in June  just days after violent riots in Ballymena, County Antrim.

The riots, which later spread to Larne and Portadown, were described by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) as "racist thuggery".

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Florin, aged in his 50s, said he feared anti-Roma sentiment had since spread across Northern Ireland.

He told BBC News NI he was chased by a man with a knuckle-duster and told to go back to his own country. He said the incident had left him afraid to leave his house.

The PSNI has confirmed it investigated the report as a racially motivated hate crime.

In a statement, it said all lines of inquiry had been completed and that it was now dependent on new information coming to light to progress.

Violence took hold in June 2025 in several towns in Northern Ireland [Reuters]

The chief executive of a Roma-led charity, which has direct links with the community in Northern Ireland, said Roma people across the board were still afraid.

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Simona Lazar, from Union Romani Voice, said some families were worried about going to the shop or sending children to school.

Florin said the incident he experienced in County Armagh happened just days after the violent street disorder in Ballymena saw the homes of foreign nationals burnt out.

The trouble came after a peaceful protest was held in response to the alleged serious sexual assault of a teenage girl in the town.

Two teenage boys, who spoke through a Romanian interpreter in court, were charged in connection with the alleged attack.

'Complex' situation in Ballymena

Some members of the local community in Ballymena have long raised what they have said are "genuine concerns" about the growing number of Roma people in the town  dating as far back as 2018.

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Complaints about crime, as well as anti-social behaviour and dumping rubbish, have been levelled at the Roma, with those voicing concerns insisting they were not racist.

At a recent Mid and East Antrim Borough Council meeting, the interim chief executive Valerie Watts said the situation in Ballymena was "complex" and that a recovery plan was needed to address the causes of the disorder and to work towards a "shared vision of a better future for all our residents".

She also confirmed the council had been in contact with the Romanian Embassy since the disorder.

The term Roma refers to the Romany people of Eastern and Central Europe, and the Middle East. Many, but not all, Roma people are from Romania.

The riots in Ballymena were described by the PSNI as "racist thuggery" [Reuters]

Florin spoke to BBC News NI on the condition of anonymity due to continued concerns for his safety following his alleged experience.

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"I have problems sleeping, but for one week after that I could not sleep at all," he said, speaking through a Romanian interpreter.

"And once it becomes a darker evening, I literally cannot go out onto the street. I'm afraid."

Asked if he feared for his life, he said: "Yes, I do."

He said he did not want to inflame tensions by speaking out, but rather hoped that people would appreciate that "not all Roma are the same" and that many just want to live their lives, go to work and feed their children.

But he said he knew of some who were too scared to go to work or send their kids to school.

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As well as speaking to Florin, BBC News NI contacted a number of people who work with the Roma across Northern Ireland.

But they have been reluctant to speak about rising tensions in communities for fear that what they say could be misinterpreted or make the situation worse.

Roma community in NI 'feeling fearful'

Ms Lazar, who is based in England, said she thought more needed to be done to protect members of the Roma community and their human rights.

She added that the fear people were feeling is real.

"We're talking about vulnerable families with children," she said.

"We're talking about Christian families who attend the Romanian churches there. They've been even afraid to go to a shop to buy food, [to send] children to school. They've been scared."

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She said there were some within the Roma community who commit crimes  much like in all communities  but that it was for the police to deal with those individuals.

Florin said the same.

"We should not put all Roma in the same boat.

"Many have bought their house, they have a car, they have a good job."

But he added that recent events have led to many leaving Northern Ireland for their safety.

"You feel like a stranger in this country," he added.

"You feel like you don't have any more courage to be here."

More on this story
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  A man from Oklahoma City, Ok., was sentenced in federal court Tuesday, Aug. 12, for his role in a large methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in southwest Missouri.

According to a United States Department of Justice news release, Edward Uribe, 37, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison without parole. He was also ordered to forfeit $210,00 in drug trafficking proceeds to the government.

The release says in November of 2024, Uribe pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute meth and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

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Uribe admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to distribute meth in Barry, Stone, Polk, Lawrence, Green, Jasper and Newton counties, which lasted from Nov. 1, 2020, to April 28, 2022, the release says.

Court documents say Uribe served as a main source of meth supply for the drug trafficking organization from Feb. 1, 2022, to April 28, 2022, as he facilitated the distribution of more than 460 pounds of meth from Oklahoma into southwest Missouri.

Uribe, who was incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for a previous meth trafficking conviction, used a contraband cell phone to communicate with his co-conspirators.

He used a messaging app on the phone to schedule transportation and delivery of the meth and provide instructions on how to prepare the drug for sale, the release says.

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Uribe also used the app and proceeds from his drug trafficking to arrange the purchase of a drone with the intent to smuggle drugs and other contraband into prison, the release added.

Uribe is one of 20 defendants in this case who have pleaded guilty. Hes the eighteenth defendant to be sentenced.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
GREENBELT, Md. (DC News Now)  A Silver Spring man was sentenced to eight years in federal prison on Wednesday for distributing fentanyl that caused the death of a teenager in 2022, according to the United States Attorneys Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland.

Mikiyas Kefyalew, 27, was convicted of knowingly misrepresenting fentanyl while selling it to a vulnerable victim and is ordered to forfeit his profit from drug-dealing and pay restitution.

Police: Bystanders, family save child from kidnapping at Maryland fair

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According to court documents, Kefyalew sold fentanyl disguised as circular, blue pills with M 30 on them, mimicking an oxycodone hydrochloride pill, to a Bethesda teenager, which later resulted in their death.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Kelly O. Hayes commented on Kefyalews sentencing, stating,

This case is a heartbreaking example of the horrific impact fentanyl is having on our communities, especially our youth, Hayes said. Unfortunately, no sentence can undo the devastating loss suffered by this young victims family, who will live with the consequences of this defendants ruthless actions for the rest of their lives. Our office and law enforcement partners remain firmly committed to seeking justice for victims of the fentanyl crisis and doing everything in our power to hold fentanyl dealers accountable.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Lebanon County man was sentenced to life in prison after a homicide conviction.

The Lebanon County District Attorneys Office said that Eddie Williams will spend life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus 25 years, after he was convicted of first-degree homicide, conspiracy to commit homicide, attempted homicide, robbery, and other related charges in June.

The DAs office says in the early morning of March 10, 2014, Williams, his girlfriend, and his cousin plotted to rob their drug dealer friend. The DA says the trio entered the victims house at the Fox Ridge Apartments Complex, where Williams placed an illegally obtained firearm to the back of the victims head and executed him.

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The trio then fled the apartment and entered a vehicle, where they led officers from the South Lebanon Police Department on a 100 mph chase that spanned multiple townships, per the DAs office.

According to the DAs office, the trio fled from the vehicle and were arrested months later in Philadelphia.

The DAs office said DNA evidence showed Williams DNA on the murder weapon that was found during the chase. They added that evidence showed Williams was losing money in the drug trade and grew jealous of the victims success, which led to him plotting the robbery.

Williams appealed his first conviction from 2015 for over a decade. The DAs office said a Federal Court awarded him a new trial based on what the Court called an erroneous jury instruction given by the Court during the first trial.

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We knew ten years ago the Defendant was a cold-blooded killer. He took one life and attempted to extinguish another over a little bit of drugs and a monetary dispute. After shooting both men in the head at close range, the Defendant fled the victims apartment. In his last act of cruelty, the Defendant stole the victims keys and locked his apartment from the outside via the deadbolt, District Attorney Pier Hess Graf said. The Defendant undertook every single effort to ensure death for both men would occur. I thank the jury for their verdict. I thank Keith Crawford and his family for testifying and reliving their horrible near-death experience. I remain thankful the Defendant is sentenced to die in prison  this world is a better and safer place without him exposed to our community.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man will spend the next several years in prison after pleading guilty to endangering children.

Read next: Convicted sex offender pleads guilty in latest Trumbull County case

Marquis Lee, 39, of Girard, was sentenced to an indefinite prison term of five to seven-and-a-half years in prison after pleading guilty in June to a second-degree endangering childrens felony and a domestic violence misdemeanor, according to a news release from the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office.

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The case involved a Dec. 20, 2024, incident at a Girard residence where Lee choked a 12-year-old boy until he lost consciousness.

After being unconscious for about five minutes, the boy was taken to St. Joseph Warren Hospital for treatment.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 (WKBN)  A man was sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a minor.

Read next: 3 teens arrested after reported robbery in Boardman

Kamare Evans, 23, was sentenced to a three-year prison term and declared a Tier 3 sexual offender, which requires lifetime registration, according to a news release from the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office.

Evans previously pleaded guilty to a third-degree felony of sexual battery. The case involved a Feb. 7 incident at a Niles residence where a 13-year-old girl was sexually assaulted.

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Prosecutors had stated Evans supplied the girl with alcohol prior to the assault.

After he serves his sentence, Evans will be required to register with the local sheriffs office four times per year for the rest of his life.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 California man who alleges border patrol agents racially profiled him during a stop in June said in a story Monday that he feels guilty about voting for President Donald Trump in the last presidential election.

I truly believe I was targeted because of my race, Jason Brian Gavidia told NBC affiliate KNBC on Monday. I believe I was racially profiled. I believe I was attacked because I was walking while brown. Where is the freedom? Where is the justice? We live in America.

Related: U.S. Citizen Says He's Reconsidering Support For Trump After Being Handcuffed By ICE

Gavidia is one of five people represented in a class action lawsuit by the ACLU of Southern California accusing the Trump administration of racially profiling people while conducting immigration enforcement activities.

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Last month, a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to stop indiscriminate immigration stops and arrests in seven California counties. However, the administration petitioned the Supreme Court last week to lift the order.

Brian Gavidia, a U.S. citizen, feels guilty about voting for President Donald Trump after claiming border patrol agents stopped him because he is Latino. Carlin Stiehl via Getty Images

A video taken on June 12 and published by the Los Angeles Times days later shows two masked border patrol agents in sunglasses pushing Gavidia against a metal gated fence outside a tow yard.

Im American, bro, Gavidia can be heard saying in the video.

What hospital were you born in? an agent yells.

I dont know, dawg, Gavidia responds, before offering to show his ID.

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The lawsuit alleges that border patrol agents twisted Gavidias arm during the public questioning and took his phone.

The border patrol agents eventually let Gavidia go, but he was left traumatized from the experience.

Every time I see it on video, its like a bad memory thats in my brain, Gavidia told KNBC.

Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin has issued a series of confusing statements regarding the incident. When reached for comment by the LA Times back in June, she claimed Gavidia had been arrested for assaulting border patrol agents.

Related: Trumps Border Patrol May Have Violated Court Orders In Immigration Raid

When the Times noted that Gavidia had not been arrested, McLaughlin backtracked, clarifying he had only been questioned and it was actually his friend who was arrested.

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On Wednesday, McLaughlin sent another conflicting statement to HuffPost, claiming Gavidia was arrested for assaulting a law enforcement officer and interfering with agents during their duties.

HuffPost has reached out for additional clarification.

McLaughlins statement to HuffPost also asserted that any allegations that individuals have been targeted by law enforcement because of their skin color are FALSE.

Related: Gavin Newsom Says 'Justice Prevailed' After Judge Blocks Indiscriminate Immigration Stops

Gavidia is one of many Trump supporters who still gotcaught up in the presidents ruthless immigration enforcement policies, despite voting for him in the last election. He told KNBC he now feels guilty about his vote in the last election and believes it was a mistake because Trump ran on lies.

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If this was going to happen, do you think we would have voted? Were humans. Were not going to destroy our community, Gavidia said. Were not going to destroy our people.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
NEED TO KNOW

A Utah man claims her suffered "permanent disfigurement" after a rollercoaster collision in 2023

According to a recently filed amended complaint, Steven Thorpe alleges a test vehicle on Lagoon amusement park's Primordial coaster struck his scissor lift, catapulting him through the air

In their answer to the initial complaint, the defendants denied nearly every allegation

A Utah man is claiming he suffered permanent disfigurement as a result of a roller coaster collision.

According to an amended complaint filed on Aug. 8 against several defendants, a man named Steven Thorpe "suffered extensive injuries after a roller coaster struck the scissor lift he was working on top of.

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The incident allegedly occurred on the popular Primordial coaster at the Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington, Utah in August 2023. The ride was still under construction at the time. Thorpe, an HVAC technician, was working in the Primordial ride building for a few days prior to the incident.

The amended complaint claims that on Aug. 9, 2023, Thorpe was tasked with troubleshooting some issues with the air system. Lagoon personnel informed him they would be testing the ride at some point during the day, but in the amended complaint, the technician claims he was never given an exact time of day.

ABC4 Utah/YouTube Primordial rollercoaster entrance at Lagoon Amusement Park in Utah Primordial rollercoaster entrance at Lagoon Amusement Park in Utah

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

According to the amended complaint, to access the air registers, Thorpe was positioned atop a raised scissor lift  a mobile, motorized scaffold often used in construction. While in an elevated position on the first floor of the building, the lights suddenly turned off and a test vehicle came down the track. According to Thorpe, he was unable to lower the lift in time to get off it and out of the way.

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The test vehicle struck the scissor lift causing it to tip over, the amended complaint claims. [Thorpe] was catapulted out of the scissor lift when it was approximately 19-20 feet up and landed on the ground.

Thorpe accuses all the named defendants, including the Lagoon Corporation, its parent company, and Actemium (an engineering company) of "negligence," the result of which he says he has caused him to incur medical expenses and lost wages. He also claims the accident left him with "permanent disfigurement."

Judson Burton, an attorney representing Thorpe, spoke to local news out ABC 4 about the ongoing litigation.

He was taken from Lagoon to McKay-Dee Hospital and he stayed there for approximately a month and had multiple surgeries during that time, Burton said.

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He added: This accident was fully preventable.

Thorpes attorneys did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment.

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.



Attorneys for the Lagoon Corporation responded to the initial complaint, filed back in August 2024. They denied nearly all of Thorpes allegations and claimed the technician was explicitly instructed on the timing of the testing.

[Thorpe] was permitted on the first level [of the ride] on a limited basis with specific warnings and restrictions, which he ignored, their answer, filed on Sept. 14, 2024, claimed.

Attorneys for the park refused PEOPLEs Aug. 13 request for comment, citing pending litigation.

Read the original article on People
A Sarasota man is suing popular retail chain Trader Joes after he said his candle exploded and burned him.

Erik Jansson, of Manatee County, said he bought the Mango Tangerine-scented candle in April of 2024 and lit it while painting his bathroom.

Jansson said the candle hyper-combusted without warning, causing the candle to move and sending wax onto Janssons face.

Jansson said he suffered significant, painful second-degree burns. Pictures attached to his lawsuit showed Jansson with scorched arms, hands and burns on his face.

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Additional pictures showed the blackened candle and a burn mark on a countertop.

Even when used as directed, the Product posed an unreasonable risk of harm to Plaintiff, his attorney wrote, noting the small warning labels did not mention any risk of explosions.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall for the Mango Tangerine candles in August of 2024, noting the flame could spread from the wick to the wax and cause a larger-than-expected flame.

The commission said Trader Joes sold approximately 653,000 units of the candle before the recall.

The lawsuit included comments from Reddit users who said their candles had intense flames and almost caused house fires.

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Janssons attorney asked the judge for damages exceeding $75,000.

Trader Joes did not immediately return a request for comment.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A Toppanish man was sentenced to 198 months in prison for assaulting federal officers and other gun charges, according to a release from the Department of Justice (DOJ).

26-year-old Leland James Vijarro pleaded guilty to the federal charges, where on February 8, 2024, he broke into his brothers home and stole thirteen guns and a suppressor, the release said.

Prosecutors say Vijarro then fired shots from his car and barricaded himself in a home after police tried to conduct a traffic stop.

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Officers surrounded the home and Vijarro fired six shots at police, then moved to a different home before surrendering, the DOJ says.

The bullets damaged two Yakima County Sheriffs Office vehicles that officers were taking cover behind.

Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse said Vijarros over sixteen-year sentence was influenced by his gang affiliation and history of violence.

His prison sentence will be followed by five years of supervised release, according to the DOJ.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Police are investigating a shooting that injured one man on West Main Street early Wednesday morning.

Officers said a 21-year-old man walked into Strong Memorial Hospital around 1 a.m. with a gunshot wound. He is expected to recover from his injury.

The investigation revealed the victim was shot around 12:50 a.m. in the 800 block of West Main Street. No suspects are in custody.

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RPD is continuing the investigation and is asking anyone with information to call 911.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Police are searching for a Millington man accused of dragging a dog from a 78-year-old womans home and killing the animal by shooting it several times.

Memphis police issued an arrest warrant for Gavin Palpallatoc, 31, for aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated cruelty to animals, and aggravated abuse of a vulnerable adult following the incident last week at a mobile home park off Highway 51.

Gavin Palpallatoc & Jane Reynolds (SCSO)

A woman who lives in the Frayser mobile home park was also charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.

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Jane Reynolds, 52, is accused of asking Palpallatoc to kill her neighbors dog after it got into a fight with her dog.

The owner of the dog that was killed didnt want to be identified by name but said there was a small dog fight in her backyard earlier that day. She told police Reynolds called her after the dog fight and stated, Im gonna call my friend to come put that dog down.

She said Palpallatoc barged into her home and took her dog Cash.

We were sitting on the couch just watching TV, and this guy comes in and pulls him from my couch to the floor, to the porch, said the dog owner.

She said she heard at least 12 gunshots before Palpallatoc ran from the scene.

Neighbor snapped pictures after dog was shot and killed at Frayser mobile home park on Aug. 8, 2025

A neighbor, who wanted to remain anonymous, said she heard the gunfire, saw Palpallatoc jump in a green vehicle with a gun in his hand, and saw the dog dead in her neighbors driveway.

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She said her neighbor was standing on the stairs of her home shaking and crying, and she counted at least 13 shell casings on the ground.

Something has got to be missing somewhere for him to come and kill that dog, said the dogs owner.

Dogs owner

Painting of Cash

The dogs owner, who is battling terminal cancer, said she adopted Cash five years ago after losing a dog. She said the pit bull mix was a stray that wandered into the mobile home park, and he turned out to be a perfect companion.

We got a good dog, she said. He was my life. He was my life. Of course, I was trying to rehome him and anything I could do and keep him with me as long as I could, and I had really been suffering over that and the fact that what if I go before he goes, whats going to happen.

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Now she is struggling with how to deal with her beloved dogs sudden death. Neighbors are also devastated and have been staying by the dog owners side.

People love her to death, said a neighbor.

Reynolds was released from jail on a $35,000 bond. If you have seen Palpallatoc or know where he is, call 901-545-COPS or CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man is now wanted by the Millington Police Department for aggravated assault, aggravated rape, and aggravated kidnapping.

Gabriel Christopher is considered armed and dangerous.

If you have any information about his whereabouts, contact the Millington Police Department at 901-872-3333, send us a tip via Facebook Messenger, or call 901-528-CASH (2274).

All tips are anonymous.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 man facing nearly a dozen child pornography charges has turned himself in.

On Tuesday, the Allegheny County Sheriffs Office said John Drzemiecki, 67, of Reserve Township, surrendered to detectives on Friday.

According to court documents, police received a CyberTip from BingImage on May 29, 2024 reporting that someone had uploaded two files of suspected child pornography.

Police used the IP address provided to them by BingImage to identify Drzemiecki as a suspect.

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They got a search warrant and went to his house on Hoffman Road.

Police said Drzemiecki admitted to having child pornography files of children between five to 16 years old on his laptop.

Officers said they also found evidence that he was browsing video on a website that is focused on child pornography. They found 786 search results made through a known Russian search engine that they said would be used by someone who was seeking child pornography.

Drzemiecki is expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing next week.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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(NewsNation)  A million dollars wont get you a starter home in hundreds of U.S. cities, but in four major metros, its still enough for a mansion.

Nationally, the median mansion is worth $1.4 million, but in Buffalo, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Memphis, a massive home still costs less than $1 million, according to a new Zillow analysis.

The picture looks very different in California, where $1 million wont even cover the down payment on a typical mansion in San Jose, valued at $6.5 million. San Francisco ($4.9 million), Los Angeles ($4.7 million) and San Diego ($4.6 million) also rank among the nations priciest mansion markets.

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Trump floats no capital gains tax on home sales

For its analysis, Zillow defined a mansion as a home with at least 5,000 square feet of finished living space  highlighting the regional differences in what $1 million can buy.

Especially on the coasts, champagne tastes require champagne budgets, Kara Ng, senior economist at Zillow, said in a statement.

But increasingly, even beer tastes require champagne budgets. California now has 113 cities where starter homes cost $1 million or more  a number that has doubled since the pandemic.

Four years ago, nearly half of all U.S. mansions were valued at less than $1 million (45%), but today, only 3 in 10 are (30%), Zillow found.

Which cities have the most mansions under $1 million?

The U.S. has 415,117 mansions valued at less than $1 million, according to Zillow.

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Atlanta leads the nation with more than 21,000 mansions under $1 million, followed by New York in a distant second with about 12,500 and Indianapolis in third with roughly 11,700.

For buyers dreaming of space and status with a six-figure price tag, the Midwest and the South still teem with mansions at a relative bargain price, Zillows report said.

In Buffalo, where the typical mansion is worth $825,500, nearly 60% of massive homes are worth under $1 million  the highest share in the nation.

Starter homes top $1M in 233 cities: Zillow

Cleveland, Memphis and Indianapolis also had a high share of sub-$1 million megapads, with more than half of local mansions falling into that category.

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On the other end of the spectrum, in San Jose, only 11 homes met Zillows mansion criteria and were valued under $1 million. San Diego fared only slightly better, with just 69 such homes.

Its worth noting that there is no universal definition of a mansion, and a 5,000-square-foot home in Cleveland may not conjure the movielike image most people imagine.

For perspective, the typical size of a new single-family home sold in 2024 was 2,210 square feet, while Julys priciest sale was a 56,500-square-foot Los Angeles estate that went for $110 million.

The 10 U.S. metros where the typical mansion is most affordable, according to Zillow

Buffalo, NY: $825,500 Indianapolis, IN: $965,500 Cleveland, OH: $995,200 Memphis, TN: $996,700 Cincinnati, OH: $1,005,900 Louisville, KY: $1,009,000 Birmingham, AL: $1,071,400 Kansas City, MO: $1,111,500 New Orleans, LA: $1,116,100 Richmond, VA: $1,136,300

The 10 U.S. metros with the most mansions valued under $1 million, according to Zillow

Atlanta, GA: 21,634 New York, NY: 12,555 Indianapolis, IN: 11,696 Washington, DC: 10,613 Chicago, IL: 9,530 Houston, TX: 8,735 Philadelphia, PA: 7,421 Minneapolis, MN: 6,054 Birmingham, AL: 4,899 St. Louis, MO: 4,827

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 night before school, Adriana Abich always gets nervous. Nervous there wont be enough school supplies for new students, or that classrooms wont be quite ready.

But this year is different.

This year, the CEO of Camino Nuevo Charter Academy is worried immigration agents with guns are coming for her kids.

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There are so many threats to kids getting to school due to ICE raids, said Abich. The fear of going to school or being out on the street is definitely real.

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But in charter schools like Camino Nuevo, and the Los Angeles Unified School District, the second largest in the nation; and where three quarters of kids are Latino or Hispanic, one thing is on the mind of nearly every educator and ahead of the first day of classes Thursday.

We consistently get families calling us when they see ICE in the neighborhood, said Abich. They call the school and say Can you please warn people. Theres ICE in the neighborhood, they need to stay home. 

Federal immigration raids in Los Angeles that ramped up in the spring and accelerated again toward the end of June scared families away from school, depressing attendance in summer programs, school leaders and district officials said.

Related

From Head Start to Adult Ed, Trump Narrows Pathway for Undocumented Students

The immigration raids, and the fear they sow, are just another huge challenge for a district already struggling to recover from historic wildfires in January that burned entire neighborhoods and two LAUSD schools.

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Thats all on top of other challenges facing the district, such as cratering enrollment, shrinking budgets, districtwide mental health problems and an uneven academic recovery from the pandemic.

LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho offered a hopeful take on the challenging school year ahead in his opening address last week, where he highlighted the resilience of the district in the face of adversity.

But at a press conference near district headquarters with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Monday, Carvalho said federal agents with guns detained a student near a school in a case of mistaken identity  and pleaded with immigration authorities to halt enforcement around L.A. Unified schools.

We are appealing to the better senses of those who have the power to eliminate trauma from the streets of our community, he said.

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From district headquarters to classrooms and school offices, L.A. Unified parents, teachers and kids have said theyre afraid for their safety amid the increasing immigration raids taking place across the city.

Leaders from city hall to the LAUSD school board have responded with pledges to keep schools safe.

Last week plainclothes immigration agents outside of Arlita High School drew their guns and detained the 15 year-old student with disabilities who was visiting the campus with his family.

The boy, who attends another LAUSD school, was quickly released by the agents after they determined he was not who they sought, he said.

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The schools principal said the agents left behind some bullets on the sidewalk, which school police recovered, according to LAUSD officials.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the federal Customs and Border Protection said that the agents were conducting a targeted operation in search of a Salvadoran national and suspected MS-13 pledge with prior criminal convictions in the broader vicinity of Arleta.

Allegations that Border Patrol targeted Arleta High School are FALSE, the CBP statement said.

Carvalho said the district would respond to the incident by creating more safe zones around campuses before and after school.

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Carvalho will send central and regional office staff across the school system on the first day of school to patrol the streets around schools. The local teachers union and other groups are also participating.

With the effort, the districts so-called safe passage zones will be expanded from about 40 schools to more than 100. The district has more than 1,500 schools and education centers scattered around L.A.

For Abich, the Camino Nuevo Charter Academy network of schools, has operated in L.A. s heavily immigrant MacArthur Park neighborhood for more than two decades, the raids dominate the horizon.

The ICE raids are unprecedented, she said, and terrifying for families who are deathly afraid of tactics, such as the use of a decoy moving van as a work vehicle, which happened in a Home Depot parking lot less than a half-mile from one of her schools.

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Whats top of mind for me now is daily attendance for students, said Abich. All of us were sort of working towards getting students in their seats ready to learn.

But now, she said, immigration raids are threatening that goal in the new year. Attendance in Camino Nuevos summer school programs was down by half this summer, Abich said, due to families fear of ICE.

LAUSD officials also said district-run summer programs saw drops in attendance.

Carvalho said the new school safe passage zones and school police patrols will occur at campuses in neighborhoods targeted by immigration enforcement.

The district also has created a fund to provide general help for families, including legal assistance, said Carvalho.

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Mayor Bass said the Los Angeles Police Department will help in the effort to protect schools and will not assist with immigration enforcement.

The school police and the Los Angeles Police Department have a strong working relationship and will continue to share information as appropriate as needed, she said.

In interviews, school board members said that the district was doing everything it can to protect kids and families from immigration raids, but that they worry attendance could suffer in the new year.

With all the terrible things happening with ICE and parents fearing sending your kids to school, I think we are really preparing ourselves and our kids and their parents for this new school year, said LAUSD School Board President Scott Schmerelson.

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Schmerelson said the districts shrinking enrollment and attendance are chief concerns, and fear among families could worsen those problems.

But, he said, the fact that two L.A. Unified schools turned away immigration agents in April, shows that schools are in fact safe havens for students. Were standing strong and standing tough, and protecting our kids, Schmerelson said.

Board member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, who represents LAUSDs District Seven, which includes neighborhoods such as South L.A., Watts and San Pedro, said the district created a new family preparedness care package on its web site with valuable information for families.

Ortiz Franklin said the district has made strong academic progress in recent years, as evidenced by recent test scores showing the students have exceeded some pre-pandemic benchmarks in literacy and math.

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Now those gains are threatened by headwinds including the ICE raids, trauma from the fires of January and shrinking budgets, said Ortiz Franklin. But she hopes that L.A. Unified will get kids to school by providing free bus transportation to any student who requests it.

We have every confidence that our schools are the safest place for kids to be and the best place for them to be to be prepared for their future, and we recognize that theres real fear around getting to and from campus, she said. We are doing as much as we possibly can.

Related

Schools, Groups Serving Undocumented Kids Take Their Activities Underground

Evelyn Aleman, founder of Our Voice, a parents group which advocates for L.A. Unifieds low-income and Spanish-speaking families, said families are scared of possible immigration raids but appreciate the steps taken by the district to protect students.

Families are afraid of two things. They continue to have fear and anxiety over the raids, said Aleman. And the other concern is the children not wanting to go to school for not being able to find their parents when they come home.

But, Aleman said, L.A. Unified has helped to address those fears with transportation to school, safe zones in schools, and the offer of remote lessons for children who do not want to leave their homes.

LAUSD has really taken this on to provide a robust package of resources, information and support for the families, she said.
Land N Sea Distributing, a wholesale-only marine and recreational vehicle parts and accessories distributor, announced a $1.1 million investment to expand its footprint in Norfolk and add 29 jobs.

The Pompano Beach, Florida-based company, in business for more than 50 years, has been operating in Norfolk for more than three decades.

The company plans to relocate from its 61,800-square-foot facility to a building almost double in size, measuring 120,000 square feet, at 3321 E. Princess Anne Road.

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Land N Sea President Mike Conners said in a news release that the new location allows for increased inventory and an enhanced service model. The company plans to introduce roughly 5,000 new products.

Land N Sea Distributings continued growth in Norfolk reinforces our citys role as a key logistics and business hub on the East Coast, Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander said in the announcement.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com
FAIRMONT  The Marion County Board of Education reviewed the ABCs of being an effective board member on Monday.

The Board of Education called a special session to do its annual trainings on Local School Improvement Councils as well as legal and ethical boundaries for board service along with a review of West Virginia state code and Roberts Rules of Order. The board does these trainings as a refresher about the mechanics of board service.

Just like our employees when they return to work, they have mandatory trainings to complete annually, School Superintendent Donna Heston said. This is very similar for our board members.

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Heston said the small group setting for the yearly training makes it easier for board members to ask questions. Kayla Cook, an attorney with the law firm Bowles and Rice, gave a presentation explaining how board service functions and how to interpret state law.

The overall goal today is to strengthen the trust, compliance, Cook said. One of the most effective ways of being a board member is knowing how to be a board member and your roles, how to intervene and act on behalf of the students.

Cooks presentation emphasized the duties that lay inside a members lane and what didnt. Cook said effective operation of public schools relies on harmonious and cooperative relationships between county boards and school personnel. She said each piece of the overall school system, between school administration, parents and the board of education has distinct and clearly defined areas of responsibility.

One concept extremely important to how the board functions has to do with what the board is and isnt empowered to do. Cook said the board cant claim powers outside of those defined by state code.

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Sometimes people, especially the public, they dont understand, what can the board do, what the board cant do, Cook said. Sometimes people say, Oh, well it doesnt say that, you cant do it or show me where it says the Board of Education cant do it. Thats not really the way it works in education. The board can only act in which it has the authority to act.

Cook said board members are only empowered when they act as a singular body. Individual board members dont have any extra authority beyond a regular citizen within the education system. Board members should also refrain from making promises or committing the board to any action, unless the decision is made by a vote, a member has no individual authority to decide anything.

Cook said its OK to answer general questions, but advised members to be really careful with anything that could lead to a vote of the board. If a conversation starts to head in that direction, Cook advised members to direct questions to the superintendent.

As far as communication, she said people sometimes have the impression sending one email to a board member means the email will reach everyone in the board and school administration. However, it doesnt work like that. She told board members to forward any communications from residents to the other members and the school superintendent.

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Cook also outlined the responsibility of the board versus the superintendent.

You guys set policy, approve budgets, evaluate the superintendent and act as a collective decision-making body, Cook said. Whereas the superintendents role is she commands the daily operations, supervises staff, implements policies and recommends personnel contracts and other actions to the board for approval.

Heston is looking forward to the new school year. The board discussed the school systems facilities while in executive session.

Part of the reason for todays board meeting is to look at where we are in the projects that we have completed for our facilities in the last two years, what matching funds we have sought through the School Building Authority or other grant opportunities, and get a status update and look at where we want to go moving forward with goals for other facilities.

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Heston said her goals as they relate to facilities will be set with her other goals on Sept. 15, when the board will assign Heston her goals for the year.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Aug. 18.
MARION COUNTY, Texas (KETK)  Marion County is now under a burn ban after Gov. Greg Abbott signed a disaster declaration on Tuesday.

County Judge Leward J. LaFleur said the ban was issued out of an abundance of caution after Abbott said 191 counties were under an imminent threat of widespread or severe damage due to increased fire weather conditions that began on Sunday.

Abbott says FBI is tracking down Texas Democrats

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All outdoor burning is now prohibited in the county unless the restriction ends earlier based on a determination made by the Texas Forest Service or the court. The order does not prohibit outdoor burning activities related to public health and safety that are authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for:

firefighter training

public utility

natural gas pipeline or mining operations

planting or harvesting of agricultural crops

burns that are conducted by a prescribed burn manager

Please note any outdoor cooking with charcoal grills will be above the ground, and/or enclosed, the order says. Fire rings, ground fires and any open grills at ground level are not allowed.

Anyone caught violating the order can face a Class C misdemeanor or face a $500 fine.

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.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Mo.  A man from Marionville pleaded guilty to child sex crimes in two separate cases from 2023 and 2024 on Tuesday, August 12.

Dagon Wallace mugshot (Courtesy: Lawrence County Sheriffs Office)

According to online court records, Dagon Wallace pleaded guilty to all eight charges in both cases, which are:

Case 1 First-degree statutory rape Endangering the welfare of a child Furnishing pornographic material to a minor Tampering with physical evidence

Case 2 First-degree statutory rape Sexual exploitation of a minor Possession of child pornography Furnishing pornographic material to a minor



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Court documents state that the Missouri Childrens Division had contacted the Aurora-Marionville Police Department about a report of a 13-year-old girl who was raped by Wallace, who was 20 at the time, on Nov. 5, 2024.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Marionville man arrested for multiple child sex crimes

The victim said she met Wallace on Facebook and ran away to his home on Nov. 5, where she drank alcohol and smoked marijuana. She then claimed that he had nonconsensual sex with her while she was incapacitated. The police investigation revealed text messages and sexually explicit photos and images of Wallace that were sent to the victims phone.

While investigating the first case, police found evidence that Wallace also had sex with a 12-year-old girl in Aurora on June 29, 2023. Investigators discovered messages with a 12-year-old who claimed she was 17 to Wallace, and the victims mother said her daughter lied to her about Wallaces age and identity.

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Wallace admitted to investigators that he had sex with both victims but claimed he did not forcibly rape the victim in the first case, according to previous Ozarks First coverage.

Wallace is expected to be sentenced on Oct. 17, 2025, in Lawrence County Circuit 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) speaks in front of a photo of drag queen Lil Miss Hot Mess during a House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing at the U.S. Capitol on March 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

Earlier this year, I was surprised to wake up to a flurry of text messages: Girl, youre all over Congress! As I opened link after link, I was met with a surreal array of photos showing Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene leading a DOGE subcommittee hearing, and to my surprise, behind her was an oversized portrait of me. I rolled my eyes and dreamed about going back to bed.

As a drag queen who reads and writes childrens books, this was certainly not the first time I have faced attacks, by politicians and otherwise. My books have been challenged and banned, events have been protested, and my name and likeness have been used in myriad disingenuous attempts to stoke fear about LGBTQ+ people, including by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, it was the first time that I had been directly referenced in the halls of Congress.

This story is part of HuffPosts commitment to fearlessly covering our elected officials. You can support our work and protect the free press by contributing to our newsroom.

My first thought to myself was: At least she chose a gorgeous photo. Ironically, it was one of my own headshots depicting a friendly smile and red, white and blue sequin stars  a stark contrast to Greenes own scowling face that dominated press photos of her testimony. My second: Its funny that Greene and other MAGA Republicans have yet to learn that its a bad idea to pick a fight with a drag queen.

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Still, Greenes comments were no laughing matter: Given her long track record as a conspiracy theorist and anti-LGBTQ+ crusader, Greene unsurprisingly spread not only slanderous hate but also defamatory disinformation. She cited me as a reason to eradicate federal funding for PBS and NPR, contending that NPR and PBS push some of the most radical left positions, like featuring a drag queen on the show Lets Learn.

She continued: [A]s a mother who raised three children, I felt confident that I could leave the room while my own children were watching childrens programming on PBS. But  if I had walked in my living room or one of my childrens bedrooms and seen this child predator and this monster targeting my children, I would become unglued.

Related: At 17, I Gave My Baby Up. I Never Expected The 2-Word Message My Child Would One Day Send Me.

Needless to say, her already highly unglued name-calling insinuates claims about me that are patently false. She is correct that I once appeared on the public television program Lets Learn, reading my picture book The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish  a playful parody meant to encourage kids to express their inner fabulousness. But the reality, as PBS CEO Paula Kerger made clear, is that the show was produced by local affiliate WNET, not by PBS itself.

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Additionally, her rhetoric suggesting that LGBTQ-affirmative media is a form of sexualizing and grooming  brainwashing and transing children is not only false, but offensive. As I noted in my initial response: This rerun is tired and boring. That is, it is part of a well-worn playbook that goes back decades, as exemplified by Anita Bryants Save Our Children campaign of the 1970s, and which has sadly been mainstreamed by Republicans in recent years.

In the hearing itself, several Democratic members of the committee playfully poked fun at Greene. Rep. Robert Garcia jokingly inquired: The American people want to know: Is Elmo now, or has he ever been, a member of the Communist Party? ... Because he is red. Such a humorous response, from an openly gay politician no less, earns snaps from me: His silly approach highlights the absurdity of Greenes own questions.

Largely missing from this political circus, however, was a strong defense of diverse public media. While Kerger and NPR CEO Katherine Maher thoughtfully refuted false claims, they did not make a clear case for the importance of featuring diverse voices and stories.

To be clear: I mean no shade to either of these public media leaders, as they were put in a very difficult position. However, I highlight a broader issue: We must do more than react to false claims; we must proactively reshape the narrative to make our case for diversity in public media and institutions.

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Ill say it loud and proud: Drag performers belong on public television, in public libraries and beyond.

Of course, drag performers are not the only example of diverse artists who belong in public media and spaces: We are simply one flavor of the creativity and brilliance that exists among LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, migrant, working-class and other historically marginalized and resilient communities. And we all deserve a pride of place on bookshelves, in television programming, curricula, story hours and more.

Related: I Was A Pastor At A Megachurch. Then Someone Asked Me A Question That Turned My Life Upside Down.

It is in this spirit that revered scholar Rudine Sims Bishop famously described childrens literature as offering windows, mirrors and sliding glass doors. In this beautiful metaphor, she acknowledged the need for children to learn about the world around them, see themselves reflected and step into stories through their imaginations. Given that all children (and adults) are a blend of intersecting identities, we need diverse media to offer multiple points of view. Any attempt to suppress such heterogeneity is not only unethical, it is also incorrect and leaves children with a partial story of the world around them.

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In my own childhood as a white, middle-class, Jewish, queer and genderqueer person, it was precisely through childrens books and television that I learned about the world. While I often had the privilege of seeing communities that looked similar to mine, I only rarely caught glimpses of queerness and gender diversity. (Still, in retrospect, queer authors and characters have always been present, but recognizing them required skills in reading between the lines.)

The author with her newest book. Photo Courtesy Of Lil Miss Hot Mess

In my work now as a childrens author, I work diligently to ensure that characters represent a multitude of not only identities and bodies, but also styles and attitudes.

Indeed, most educational and political organizations recognize the importance of access to diverse media not only for young peoples social and emotional development, but for democratic societies to function. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child insists that children have the right to freedom of expression, including freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds  in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of the childs choice and specifically defends access to material from a diversity of cultural, national and international sources.

Inherent in these understandings is a recognition of childrens autonomy  which Greene and her compatriots would rather ignore. Of course, children need guidance and care, but they are also already capable of curious and capacious thinking. It is hardly surprising that a politician like Greene, who seems to lack such skills herself, fails to see the strength of such imagination and independence. Instead, she attempts to bully others to think and act exactly like she does.

Related: From Fame To Fade: My Faux Hollywood Big Break

What is ironic about Greenes attacks is that while she accuses public media, childrens authors and drag storytellers like myself of brainwashing children, it is Greene who wants to control minds through censorship. But drag can be an antidote. And thats exactly why drag performers belong in public education and media.

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As I have written previously for HuffPost, drag is not a form of indoctrination, but a deep practice of imagination. It does not represent gender ideology, but an encouragement to ask thoughtful questions about how and why we categorize people into boxes. It is an historic art form, rooted in queer and trans communities around the world, that promotes self-expression and building chosen family.

Related: My Husband Said God Wanted Him To Spank Me. Our Church Told Me I Couldn't Say No.

Children who are lucky enough to encounter drag performers at their local Drag Story Hours  or in books and on screens  resonate with them because they encourage forms of fantasy and playfulness that many adults have forgotten in their own lives. And it is that ability to imagine something else  whether a different gender expression, or a just a fabulous future for everyone  that threatens those in power.

To paraphrase a brilliant observation from a friends young child: Drag queens, kings and other fabulous beings arent really royalty; rather, we derive our power through hard work and by promoting pleasure and joy.

Lil Miss Hot Mess (second from left) performs at a Drag Story Hour's Dragtivity Day at Cheer Up Charlies in Austin, Texas, March 11, 2023, with Ona Louise, Brigitte Bandit, Emoji Nightmare and Black Benatar. Elise Chenoweth

In my books, children are not told what to do; instead, they are invited to try out new tunes, dance steps, ways of being their brightest selves. While haters like Greene might find swishing ones hips or shimmying ones shoulders repulsive, I recommend she give it a try: Kids love it, and it might help her loosen up a bit to express herself more authentically.

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In my upcoming book Make Your Own Rainbow: A Drag Queens Guide to Color, young readers are encouraged to color outside the lines by learning the names of unconventional colors and mixing and matching hues to their hearts content. Its a simple enough premise, with a goal to celebrate the beauty in the world around us. And yet, I brace myself for whatever nefarious interpretations critics like Greene might offer, as well as the unfortunate likelihood that in a culture in which rainbow flags are being banned, it too will face book bans.

Many of the current attacks on art and education are absurd and ridiculous  but, much like the art of drag, that hardly means we should not take them seriously. Since those currently in power claim to support freedom when, in fact, they promote fascism, it is no surprise that they seek to eradicate public institutions and art forms that promote freedom of thought and expression. Weve seen that show, and its finale doesnt end well.

But it is up to all of us to remember that politicians like Greene and President Donald Trump are not queens or kings  theyre bullies. And you never cave in to a bully: Instead, you outwit them, show them the error of their ways and remind them that its more fun on your side. So, its time to stand our ground: not only against homophobia, transphobia and censorship, but for diverse public media, libraries, schools and other institutions.

It just so happens that one of the best ways to do so is to tap into our inner drag queens, get in formation to snap back, stomp our way through the streets  and vanquish the real monsters.

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Lil Miss Hot Mess is the author of the childrens books Make Your Own Rainbow: A Drag Queens Guide to Color, If Youre a Drag Queen and You Know It, and The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish, and serves on the board of Drag Queen Story Hour. She has appeared on world-class stages like SFMOMA, Stanford University, and Saturday Night Live, was a founding organizer of the #MyNameIs campaign that challenged Facebooks real names policy. When not twirling, Lil Miss Hot Mess is a professor of media studies. Follow her on social media @LilMissHotMess, and learn more at lilmisshotmess.com.

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TEWKSBURY, Mass. (WPRI)  Market Basket is seeking a restraining order against two former executives, one of whom was reportedly caught on camera walking into the grocery store chains headquarters unauthorized.

In a civil complaint filed in Middlesex Superior Court Monday, Market Basket accused former Director of Operations Joe Schmidt and Grocery Director Tom Gordon of pressuring store employees into a work shutdown.

Market Baskets Board of Directors fired Schmidt and Gordon last month, accusing them of insubordination, making derogatory remarks about the supermarket chain and inappropriate communication with colleagues.

Joe Schmidt visiting a Market Basket in Somerville, Massachusetts. (Courtesy: Middlesex Superior Court)

Schmidt and Gordon were among the executives placed on paid administrative leave back in May alongside Market Basket CEO Arthur T. Demoulas and two of his children. The boards decision to suspend them followed accusations that Demoulas was in the process of orchestrating a companywide work stoppage.

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The recent escalation of [Schmidt and Gordons] campaign of intimidation and defiance has crossed a line, the civil complaint reads. Their goal in waging this campaign is to encourage associates to slow down their work, or even walk off the job, and to pressure Market Basket management to reinstate them and Mr. Demoulas.

In a statement, Market Basket Director Steven Collins claimed Schmidt was caught on surveillance footage breaking and entering into Market Baskets Tewksbury headquarters after hours using the master key that he has refused to return. Schmidt was then seen moving around the offices totally unauthorized, Collins added.

SEE ALSO: Demoulas accuses board of silencing associates

The civil complaint notes that Schmidt and Gordon visited 26 different Market Baskets in three different states over a six-day span. Collins believes the men were using their presence at the stores as an intimidation tactic.

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Market Basket is requesting immediate action to prevent Schmidt and Gordon from trespassing as part of their unlawful and escalating campaign to disrupt the companys business operations.

Joe Schmidt walking through the warehouse at Market Baskets Tewsksbury headquarters. (Courtesy: Middlesex Superior Court)

The civil complaint explains that both men were told not to enter any Market Basket store, property or office upon their suspension. That no-trespass order has no expiration date, according to the civil complaint, and the board has not given them permission to visit Market Basket property since then.

Schmidt also covertly retained his master keys after his termination, according to the civil complaint, and made no effort to return them despite the companys repeated requests for him to do so.

The civil complaint states that Schmidt and Gordon entered the stores and walked around for approximately 10-20 minute during its normal business hours, for the specific purpose of engaging on-the-job associates in conversations, and thereby disrupting store operations.

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[Schmidt and Gordon] wore suits and ties during their visits, as they would during store visits

prior to their termination, to convey to associates that they were acting as executives of the company, who would soon be reinstated, the civil complaint reads.

Market Basket claims Schmidt escalated his illegal campaign by walking into the companys headquarters last week and wandering around, according to the civil complaint.

Joe Schmidt taping photos of Arthur T. Demoulas to his company cars windows outside Market Baskets corporate headquarters. (Courtesy: Middlesex Superior Court)

Schmidt was also reportedly seen on surveillance footage parking his company vehicle near the front entrance, taping photographs of Demoulas to the windows and taking a picture of his work with his cell phone before walking away.

Collins said Market Basket is asking for a restraining order to enforce what we have already requested in writing: stay away from Market Basket property and leave associates alone.

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They lost the privilege of being employed by Market Basket based upon recent past behavior, Collins said. This conduct by men of integrity and honor, in the words of suspended CEO Arthur T. Demoulas, goes way beyond ordinary loyalty to a job or a boss. It is against the law and crosses the line of acceptable behavior.

In a statement, Demoulas spokesperson Justine Griffin called the restraining order request outrageous. She argued that Schmidt and Gordon were not acting maliciously while visiting Market Basket properties.

Joe and Tom were fired after spending their entire careers at Market Basket, Griffin explained. They found the hardest thing was not just the very public false accusations and continued attacks on their integrity, but it was that they were separated from their colleagues and friends whom they have known for decades.

Joe Schmidt enters Market Baskets corporate headquarters through a side door. (Courtesy: Middlesex Superior Court)

Once fired, they both decided to check in on their long-time colleagues, visiting stores and just trying to be a positive, reassuring figures in the turmoil, she continued.

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Griffin also addressed Schmidts trip to the corporate office, stating that he was there to return his company car.

While there, he went to visit briefly a couple of colleagues in the warehouse and office, she said. They exchanged well wishes and he left without incident or doing anything inappropriate.

A hearing regarding Market Baskets request for a restraining order has been scheduled for Thursday in Lowell Superior Court.

This comes more than a decade after a family feud nearly destroyed the beloved Tewksbury-based grocery store chain. Market Basket lost millions of dollars in revenue when Demoulas was ousted from ownership by his cousin back in 2014.

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The power struggle triggered six weeks of worker protests and customer boycotts that ended with Demoulas and his siblings buying back the business for $1.6 billion.

Now, Demoulas and his three sisters are fighting for control of the company. The sisters each control 20% of the company, while Demoulas owns 28%. The remaining 12% is owned by a trust for the grandchildren.

Market Basket operates more than 90 stores across New England and has roughly 30,000 employees. There are currently two Market Basket stores located in Rhode Island: one in Warwick and another in Johnston.

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MARLIN, Texas (FOX 44)  Long-time City of Marlin employee Justin Parker has announced his upcoming resignation from the positions of Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator.

The city says this announcement was made during Tuesday nights regularly scheduled City Council meeting. Chief Parker began serving the community as an entry-level firefighter in January 2008. He served in various ranks and capacities within the Fire Department prior to his 2014 appointment to the Fire Chief position.

In addition to Parkers employment with the City of Marlin, he also served the county and community as a part-time EMT with Falls County EMS and volunteer firefighter with the Marlin Volunteer Fire Department.

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According to the City of Marlin, Chief Parker decided to resign after accepting a full-time position with a fast-growing fire department located in the Central Texas region. He will continue to reside in the Marlin area and plans to continue his community service as an active member of the Marlin Volunteer Fire Department.

The city wishes Chief Parker the very best in his future endeavors and genuinely appreciates his nearly two decades of service to the Marlin community.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44.
The pictures from last week's sit-in protest in Parliament Square over the banned group Palestine Action were unprecedented.

As demonstrators held up placards reading, "I support Palestine Action", some 522 of them were arrested on suspicion of breaking terrorism laws - more than double the total such arrests in 2024.

Their average age was 54, said the police. Some 112 of them were over 70 years old.

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The battle over the ban on Palestine Action (PAG) - last month, proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK - now feels as much a political and PR battle as a legal one.

And the organisers of the campaign are trying to capitalise on perceived sympathy among some of the public by organising another demonstration in September - hoping to force the state, through numbers, to lift the ban.

How does it end?

Does it risk becoming an "I am Spartacus moment"? - the words of Baroness Shami Chakrabarti, the Labour peer and civil rights campaigner?

That depends on three courtroom battles that will each, in turn, influence how Palestine Action is publicly perceived and legally characterised.

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Let's start with the protesters arrested since July for showing support for the group - more than 700 so far.

One lawyer says it has been awkward so far for police officers.

"I've seen police look incredibly uncomfortable with the fact that they are having to treat these elderly people as criminals," said solicitor Katie McFadden, who advised many protesters, after their arrests, last Saturday.

"I've seen them in police custody and they've certainly been considerate and looked, frankly, quite shocked and horrified that this is what they were having to do as part of their job when they've signed up to go out and protect the public from dangerous criminals."

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The real challenge for the police and prosecutors is how many protesters do they need to charge with support of a banned terrorist organisation to send a message to the public. And what message do they send if they don't charge them all?

The average age of those arrested was 54, police say, with 112 over the age of 70 [EPA]

So far, three people have been charged with displaying an item showing support for Palestine Action during the first demonstration on 5 July. They will all appear in court next month.

The director of public prosecutions, Stephen Parkinson, had to consult the Attorney General's Office before he could go ahead with the charges because of additional safeguards in some terrorism cases.

That means that Lord Hermer, the Attorney General and also a cabinet minister, or his deputy, may have to be involved in each of the files that police send to prosecutors.

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That, in turn, means the vast majority of the 700 may not know for months if they are going to end up on trial - in cases that could be more than a year away from a jury.

Just assuming they do get charged, history suggests the risk of a maximum of 14-year sentence is low.

Conventionally, a conviction like this would leave careers in tatters and have other life-changing effects.

The equation for some Palestine Action protesters is different.

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Many are older people who have graduated from involvement in climate change activism and believe the ban breaches free speech safeguards. It seems many have fewer fears about the impact of arrest on their day-to-day lives.

So is the ban on Palestine Action a legal and PR disaster in the making for Home Secretary Yvette Cooper?

Huda Ammori, Palestine Action's co-founder, has said on social media: "The system can't cope when thousands resist."

[EPA]

But ministers hope that the difference between the organisation she founded and other forms of protest over Gaza will become clear thanks to the second of the three linked legal battles soon to take centre stage.

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In August 2024 alleged PAG supporters broke into Elbit Systems UK in Bristol, an Israeli defence firm that has long been a key target.

A repurposed prison van smashed through a security fence and crowbars and a sledgehammer were allegedly used to smash up equipment.

Three people were injured: a security guard and two police officers.

Palestine Action promoted video of the damage - but not any pictures of the alleged assaults.

Those allegations begin to come to trial in November. Some 18 people deny charges including criminal damage, assault causing actual bodily harm, violent disorder and aggravated burglary.

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That incident prompted national security officials and the police to look at whether a terrorism ban on PAG could be justified, after having previously concluded that the vast majority of its highly disruptive activities amounted to minor criminal damage.

Documents disclosed to the BBC in the High Court show how the thinking on a ban had evolved. Palestine Action was becoming more militant, said officials. It had allegedly produced an "underground manual" that it was claimed detailed how to plan a "break-in", referring to face masks, burner phones and fake car number plates.

"With an efficient sledgehammer in your hand, you can cause quite a bit of damage," the manual read, before than detailing how to do so.

And this is where the UK's wide definition of terrorism comes in. It includes not just the threat or use of violence to advance a cause - but also the use of serious criminal damage.

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That's because in the 1990s the IRA began causing economic damage through bombs, without taking life.

So when Cooper banned PAG, her decision was largely informed by what the Home Office has described as millions of pounds of criminal damage, not an assessment that it was a group of murderous militants.

"Proscription is about one narrow group that has been involved in violent attacks including injuries, including weapons, smoke bombs causing panic among innocent people, major criminal damage," the home secretary said following last Saturday's arrests.

"There may be people who are objecting to proscription who don't know the full nature of this organisation due to court restrictions on reporting while serious prosecutions are under way but it's really important that no one is in any doubt that this is not a non-violent organisation."

If the ban is overturned in the High Court then hundreds of those arrested would see their cases collapse [TOLGA AKMEN/EPA/Shutterstock]

Ms Ammori has contested this characterisation, saying the government's own papers show that Palestine Action did not advocate for violence.

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This brings us to the third of the three big legal challenges that will decide this affair: was the Home Secretary right?

The High Court will consider in the autumn if the ban was a rational and proportionate response to PAG's activities.

Jonathan Hall KC, the independent watchdog of terrorism laws, has previously told BBC News that the ban is legally workable because the group had moved from protest into what is effectively "blackmail" - suggesting it was exerting pressure to get what it wanted.

But Ms Ammori's legal team have a range of significant arguments around freedom of protest.

Volker Turk, the United Nations' human rights chief has got involved too, saying the ban is so wrong it places the UK outside international law.

The outcome of that case will define whether Palestine Action remains banned. If the ban falls, then the 700 arrested so far are free - their cases would collapse. As for the group itself, it may feel emboldened - but would know that it could still be banned again if its actions cross the terrorism laws line.

If the ban stands, then the advantage will be with the government - and arrests and charges will continue.

That is the counter-terrorism policing way: slowly but surely, step by step, seek to contain and, ultimately, crush the threat.
A man who was killed in a shooting in Fitchburg earlier this month has been identified as 63-year-old Fitchburg resident Luis Mejia, according to the Worcester County District Attorneys Office.

On Sunday, Aug. 3, at approximately 12:15 a.m., Fitchburg police responded to the Mechanic Street area for reports that a person had been shot, the district attorneys office said previously. At the scene, officers found Mejia outside a car with a single gunshot wound. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead a short time later.

Authorities arrested 42-year-old New Jersey resident Jonathan Reyes-Contreras in connection with Mejias death within a day of the shooting, the district attorneys office said. The initial investigation suggested that Reyes-Contreras knew Mejia.

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Reyes-Contreras pleaded not guilty to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury and two gun charges in connection with the shooting during his arraignment in Fitchburg District Court on Aug. 4, court records show. Following a dangerousness hearing on Aug. 7, he was ordered held on $10,000 cash bail.

No further information about the case has been released.

More local crime stories

Read the original article on MassLive.
A middle school librarian in a Massachusetts town was arrested Wednesday on child pornography charges after a search of his phone and basement yielded an array of incriminating evidence, according to federal prosecutors.

Scott McGinley, 55, of Holyoke, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of distribution of child pornography, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office of Massachusetts.

McGinley, the school librarian for Williams Middle School and Glenbrook Middle School in Longmeadow, was taken into custody in connection with an investigation into the alleged distribution of child sexual abuse material.

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Prosecutors allege that McGinley distributed child sexual abuse material in a group called Little boyz only on an encrypted messenger application.

When contacted by undercover law enforcement posing as a fellow user on the app, McGinley allegedly disclosed his sexual preference for boys age 2-12 and especially 4-7. Its further alleged that in the conversations with undercover law enforcement, McGinley stated he had students who were 11-14 years old but, ha[d]nt touched them sexually.

Searches conducted at McGinleys home on Aug. 8 resulted in the recovery of two iPhones, an Apple Watch, a tablet, two laptops, and a locked Pelican case in the basement, which investigators say contained a medley of items for kids, including assorted childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream, apple sauce packets, and a toolbox stuffed full of underwear for boys and bedding.

A forensic examination of McGinleys phone revealed over 100 files depicting child sexual abuse material, according to charging documents cited by federal prosecutors.

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McGinley is slated to face a judge in federal court in Boston on Wednesday afternoon.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins has resigned from the Roxbury Community College Board of Trustees after federal authorities arrested him on extortion charges in Florida.

Tompkins tendered his resignation from the board, where he served as board chairman, in a letter to Gov. Maura Healey dated Tuesday.

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation effective August 12, 2025 from the Roxbury Community College Board of Trustees, including from the appointed position as Chair of the Board of Trustees, Tompkins wrote in his resignation letter.

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I have greatly appreciated serving as a Trustee of Roxbury Community Colleges Board and as Chair of the Board of Trustees, Tompkins wrote.

Tompkins, 67, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of extortion under color of official right, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said. He was arrested by the FBI in Florida on Friday morning.

In a statement on Wednesday, the governor said Tompkins made the right decision to resign from the board.

Sheriff Tompkins has made the right decision by stepping down from the Roxbury Community College Board, Healey said. Vice Chair Israul Marrero will immediately begin serving as Interim Chair of the Board.

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Prosecutors allege in court documents that Tompkins extorted an executive from an unnamed cannabis company in Boston by using his position of power to obtain a pre-IPO interest in the companys stock.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Ted Docks said in a statement last week that Tompkins allegedly extorted $50,000 from the owner of the cannabis retailer, who sought to open a dispensary in Boston in 2019.

We believe what the Sheriff saw as an easy way to make a quick buck on the sly is clear-cut corruption under federal law, Docks said.

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.

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BOSTON (WWLP)  State lawmakers are working to make sure Massachusetts towns can afford to keep their water infrastructure up to date and functional.

A bill was approved by the House and is in the works in the Senate that would allow cities and towns, water districts, and stormwater facilities to collect a fee to offset costs from increased water withdrawal and new housing and commercial developments.

West Springfield business owner charged in connection with $7M Ponzi scheme

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The fee would flow in to a so-called Sustainable Water Resource Fund and would be available to cities and towns for instances of contaminated runoff from developments seeping into rivers and streams.

The fund is meant to bridge the gap between property tax collections and the actual funding needed to clean up water. The Senate sponsor of the bill says the issue will only get worse over time without intervention.

Water usage, drainage, and treatment are all complicated by the increased rain, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events caused by climate change, as well as contaminants such as PFAS, said sponsor Senator Jamie Eldridge.

The bill, a form of water banking, has been filed for 5 straight sessions, but lawmakers say it has no formal opponents and has failed to pass due to timing and prioritizing issues.

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There are two likely paths to passage for the bill: it could be approved by the House and Senate as a standalone policy, or it could be absorbed by the governors environmental bond bill.

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Nearly 20,000 residents of a community in western Canada were on standby Wednesday as a wildfire engulfed a mountain overlooking the city of Port Alberni, the latest area threatened in the country's second-worst fire season on record.

"I've lived in Port Alberni since 1956 and this is one of the biggest fires we've ever seen," Russ Wetas, 69, told AFP as smoke from Mount Underwood filled the sky behind him.

The wildfire service in the west coast province of British Columbia has listed the Mount Underwood fire as "out of control," meaning it is expected to spread further.

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But it remained unclear if Port Alberni, roughly 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) north, will be evacuated.

On the opposite end of the vast country, in the easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador, parts of the capital St. John's received evacuation orders on Tuesday, following several days of intensifying fire.

A wildfire was also burning Wednesday on the outskirts of Halifax, a major city in the eastern province of Nova Scotia, with a population of nearly half a million.

This is already Canada's second-worst wildfire season in terms of landmass burned, based on figures dating back to 1983.

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So far, 7.4 million hectares (18.3 million acres) have been scorched -- an area nearly as large as Panama -- putting 2025 past the 7.1 million hectare mark from 1995.

But this year is not expected to pass 2023, when 17.3 million hectares burned, an extraordinary toll that focused global attention on the growing threat of wildfires boosted by human-induced climate change.

Smoke from this year's wildfires has put tens of millions of people under air quality alerts in both Canada and the United States. The haze has even crossed the Atlantic, affecting people in western Europe.

There were more than 700 wildfires burning across Canada on Wednesday, including 161 considered out of control, with nearly every province and territory impacted.

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Mount Underwood is on Vancouver Island, making the blaze there part of a worrying trend of increased wildfire activity near the coast.

Experts have said that historically coastal areas did not burn, but more serious wildfires near the ocean are being recorded, even if they remain less intense than blazes further inland.

"This is a fire that hasn't really been seen on Vancouver Island," John Jack, a First Nations chief and regional official, told the public broadcaster CBC.

Ted Hagard, who works at Port Alberni's paper mill, told AFP he had been watching the fire's progression on social media but needed to see it for himself.

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It's "insane how huge it is," the 46-year-old said, standing on the shores of a lake adjacent to Mount Underwood.

Canada is experiencing a rise in conditions that are conducive to fires, experts say, linking the trend to climate change, which has caused elevated temperatures, reduced snow, shorter and milder winters, and earlier summer weather.

str-bs/aha
More than 100,000 Americans have applied to join U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) just two weeks after President Trump launched an initiative to hire 10,000 new agents, the Department of Homeland Security told Fox News Digital. The agency had already received 80,000 applications by August 6.

Our country is calling you to serve at ICE. In the wake of the Biden administrations failed immigration policies, your country needs dedicated men and women of ICE to get the worst of the worst criminals out of our country, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement to Fox News Digital. This is a defining moment in our nations history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.

As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the Trump administration is ramping up border security efforts following record levels of illegal immigration under the Biden administration, an increase supported by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data.

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The ICE recruitment campaign includes signing bonuses of up to $50,000, student loan forgiveness, availability pay, and enhanced retirement benefits, all made possible through the One Big Beautiful Bill funding. CBP has also launched a nationwide effort to bring back agents who retired between 2020 and 2024, calling their experience crucial to addressing future challenges.

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons echoed the call to serve, stating, Your country is calling on you to serve at ICE and defend the Homeland.  Thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill, we now have funding to recruit and hire Americans who want to patriotically serve their country and protect American communities.

ICE applicants are required to undergo a medical screening, drug screening, and physical fitness test.
After George Santos left Washington, it was hard to imagine any member of Congress generating more cringe-inducing controversies.

Enter Cory Mills, who apparently viewed this opening as a hold-my-beer challenge.

Considering the following headlines:

Rep. Cory Mills hit with revenge-porn accusation after breakup with beauty queen

Ethics report details allegations Cory Mills held contracts with federal agencies after election to Congress

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Central Florida Rep. Cory Mills under investigation by DC police over alleged assault

Landlord seeks to evict Republican congressman over unpaid rent at D.C. apartment

Stolen valor? Veterans dispute Cory Mills record: He fooled a lot of us

Those stories are all from just the last six months, some trumpeted by hard-right, conservative media outlets.

Rep. Mills disputes ex-girlfriends sex video extortion allegations

Mills, a former Army sergeant and military contractor who is in his second term as the Republican rep for Seminole and Volusia counties, says virtually all of the accusations are bogus.

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Still, Republicans are nervous  as evidenced by yet another headline last week from Politico: Republicans quietly fret about disturbing Cory Mills allegations.

Well, heres the reality: Nobody shouldve expected much different.

When Mills first ran for Congress in 2022, there were several respected Republicans in the field  serious policy-minded conservatives who wouldve just gone about the business of doing their jobs.

But Republican voters in Florida didnt want serious policy makers. They wanted a bomb-throwing extremist. And thats exactly what they got.

While thoughtful GOP candidates  like Ted Edwards, a former Orange County commissioner, and Rusty Roberts, a former chief of staff to former Congressman John Mica  talked about issues like transportation, gun violence and the economy, Mills was threatening to tear gas the media.

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And GOP voters ate it up. The entire race was modern MAGA personified  sound, fury and division beating thoughtful discourse to a bloody pulp.

It didnt always used to be this way in this district. For years, this Seminole County-centered district was purple, meaning it elected more moderate members like Republican John Mica and Democrat Stephanie Murphy.

But then GOP legislators redrew it to be heavily Republican, meaning the candidate who ran the furthest to the right would probably win.

So guys like Edwards and Roberts  Republicans with proven track records of service  never stood a chance.

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Instead, they were overshadowed by guys like Mills, who ran ads gaslighting Black Lives Matters and the journalists, and Anthony Sabatini, who fumed about DEI and drag queens.

Edwards and Roberts talked policy and showed up at candidate forums. Mills and Sabatini threw bombs, sowed division and couldnt even bring themselves to attend a candidate Q&A sponsored by the AARP.

Two months before that GOP primary was held in 2022, I was pretty sure I knew which approach would prevail, writing a column that said the following:

So while Edwards is talking about trying to protect the lives of children, Sabatini is ranting about drag queens and Mills is airing an ad where he offers to tear-gas the media. Well see which approach resonates with more Florida Republicans. Ive covered Florida politics long enough to think I know. Id love to be wrong.

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I was not wrong. Mills and Sabatini finished in first and second place in the primary. Neither Edwards nor Roberts even fetched 6%.

Can a gun-toting Republican who supports gun-safety laws win a Florida primary? | Commentary

Mills then went on to win the general election and has been embarrassing himself and the state ever since.

It started his first week in office when Mills made national headlines for joking about the bloody hammer attack of Nancy Pelosis husband, saying: Finally, one less gavel in the Pelosi house for Paul to fight with in his underwear.

Thats precisely the kind of maturity and humanity voters supported.

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The accusations against Mills have gotten more serious ever since, some of them coming from fellow veterans and Republicans.

Mills and his reps have said its all bunk  that the veterans who dispute his life-saving stories may have been confused by the fog of war, that he settled the issues with his $20,000-a-month unpaid rent, that the woman who originally reported he assaulted her recanted her statement and that the recent accusations of video extortion from a former Miss United State and current Republican state committeewoman are the result of a bad breakup and political targeting.

Maybe hes right. Maybe Mills is the most wrongfully accused guy in Washington. Still, its pretty remarkable that Mills has generated more ugly headlines in the past six months than most politicians do in a career.

Politico reported that Some of his GOP colleagues are wondering if they should start looking for another candidate to back in the district while others are hoping Mills various messes will sort themselves out without blowing back on the party more broadly.

They can hope all you want. But Mills let the party and its voters know what kind of politician he was from day one.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has revived calls for the District of Columbia to become Americas 51st state in response to President Donald Trumps move to federalize Washingtons police force.

Trump announced a huge crackdown on street crime in the nations capital on Monday, insisting it was necessary to safeguard the public from violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people, despite the official statistics for the last two years showing a steep decline in offenses.

The National Guard duly hit the streets on Tuesday night but, for Bowser, their presence is not necessary.

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We have seen a precipitous lessening of crime in the city, violent crime, especially after a post-Covid spike that we acknowledge, and we got after, and we drove down the numbers in 2023, the mayor said on The Breakfast Club radio show on Tuesday.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has revived calls for the District of Columbia to become Americas 51st state (AP)

We reported last year the lowest level of violent crime in 30 years. So, were not taking our foot off the gas.

Were continuing to work, but we think that this action kind of plays into his narrative about cities, about using force, about being tough on crime, and I can say a little bit more about why D.C. is different, but its times like this when America needs to know why your nations capital, a place where 700,000 taxpaying Americans live, should be the 51st state.

Although D.C. has three electoral votes in presidential elections, it does not have voting representatives or senators in Congress and is subject to a greater degree of control by the federal government than individual states.

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It was created by direct order of the U.S. Constitution, which called for the formation of a federal district under the exclusive jurisdiction of Congress, a stipulation honored by the Residence Act that was adopted on July 16 1790 and brought the District of Columbia into being to house the city of Washington.

The National Guard has been deployed on the streets of DC ((Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Imag)

Bowser was more directly critical of Trumps anti-crime strategy during a virtual town hall event with local citizens on Tuesday, just as the Guard were being deployed.

Taking questions from residents, she was asked how faith groups could help support the community, prompting her to urge residents to protect the city.

This is a time when the community needs to jump in, Bowser answered. To protect our city, to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule.

Get to the other side of this guy and make sure we elect a Democratic House so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push.
Flooding has followed heavy rains in the Milwaukee area and Mayor Cavalier Johnson urged caution for residents as cleanup continues.
NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB)  North Tonawanda residents are continuing to make their voices heard by speaking out against a local cryptomining facility.

They joined city leaders to rally outside of City Hall Tuesday afternoon while the company, Digihost, was in court over multiple noise violations.

North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec is looking to update the noise ordinances to include decibel readings that take into account low frequencies. This would allow the city to get a clear understanding of how often the violations are occurring.

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Tuesdays rally may be over, but residents said their fight is far from it. Theyre still demanding action to quiet the noise from the cryptomining facility located on Erie Avenue and to address what they call its harmful impact on the environment.

Id like to see that place shut down, resident Kevin OConnor said. They gotta do something.

Residents said theyve been dealing with the noise from the Digihost cryptomining facility for years, and they continue to speak out.

Its just terrible, OConnor said. You cant sleep. On my backyard deck, noise bouncing off the homes behind me is also irritating.

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Officials, including Cosimo Capozzi, the citys former building inspector, are putting the blame on the Common Council for not striking this idea down years ago.

I did my best to advise the board privately and publicly, but obviously they didnt listen to me and my job is to enforce what the planning board approved, Capozzi said. I had no choice, so thats how we got here.

City officials have already issued Digihost multiple citations for violating the local noise ordinance multiple times, but residents said thats not enough to fix the problem.

Now, Tylec is looking into increasing the penal law.

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One hundred bucks is nothing to them and thats one of the big pieces were looking at, is something that compounds day to day and builds and builds, something that is a little more hard for someone to bear, Tylec said.

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Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  For the first time, the mayors of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson all sat on the same stage to share their vision for Southern Nevada.

It was part of the Vegas Chambers Business Power luncheon on Tuesday, hosted at the Orleans Hotel and Casino.

The panel covered topics from higher education to affordable housing, laying out strategies to ensure the continued growth in the valley.

For the first time, the mayors of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson all sat on the same stage to share their vision for Southern Nevada. (KLAS)

Its an opportunity for our membership to actually hear some of the priorities of each of the municipalities, but then also to hear about some new things on the horizon, CEO of the Vegas Chamber, Marybeth Sewald, who moderated the panel said.

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The crowd consisted of approximately 500 people, and Sewald said tickets for the event sold out quickly.

Its a mixture of all members of the business community, Sewalk said. We have the smallest of businesses here, we have medium-sized businesses, and then we have C-suite executives.

The mayors were asked about changes from the legislature impacting their city the most.

Mayor of Henderson Michelle Romero honed in on education.

We were able to get voting rights for our appointed members to the school board, and I think thats an amazing change we lobbied a long time for, Mayor Romero said.

Meanwhile, the City of Las Vegas Mayor, Shelley Berkley, focused on development.

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We are landlocked, well have to start building up. We need to be on transportation routes, not only for housing and apartment living, but other businesses, Mayor Berkley said.



City of North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown said their vision was to build a complete city.

With our strategic plan, all that encompasses a complete city, great communities, safe neighborhoods. Fantastic shopping. All amenities within our city boundaries, Goynes-Brown said.

However, Goynes-Brown added that when it comes to their goals for the valley, the three are most effective when united.

We are stronger when we work together versus not, and so thats another beauty of being on stage with these ladies, Goynes-Brown said.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  On Tuesday, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson told the city council he is still focused on the goal of providing 1,500 overnight shelter beds for the homeless by December.

So far, only 630 beds are ready. However, he told the city council that more shelters are opening. He said hes also looking into more alternatives, including using empty Airbnbs, empty beds in adult care facilities and using more private providers.

We will always have overnight shelters, life-saving beds for everybody, Wilson told the city council. Theyre never going to be exited to the street. And thats what we have been working on for the last seven months, is adding capacity so we never have to use the street as a destination.

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Salem man drowns in Molalla River

Mayor Wilsons staff told councilors that since February, the city has not been enforcing the no-camping ban on city streets. They said a big reason for that is that there needs to be shelter beds available.

Right now, there are an estimated 7,000 people unsheltered in Multnomah County  meaning sleeping outside or in a car.

The mayors update on Tuesday got some pushback from city council members who want more enforcement of the camping ban on city streets and more permanent camp cleanups as more shelter is made available.

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Aug. 12MBT Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of Tom Klapperich and Kevin LaFrance in their Austin branch.

Klapperich has been promoted to senior vice president, business development officer. He joined MBT Bank in September 2024, bringing over 25 years of banking experience. Klapperich will provide leadership and execute business development strategies for all MBT Bank locations.

LaFrance has been promoted to market president in Austin. He joined MBT Bank in October 2024, bringing nearly 20 years of banking experience, including several years as a Market President.

In his new role, LaFrance will lead the Austin office while working to develop and retain loans and deposits for the branch.
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  Meat is back on the menu at Eleven Madison Park, a Michelin-starred vegan restaurant on Madison Avenue.

The restaurant, headed by Chef Daniel Humm, announced the identity change on Instagram Wednesday morning. New dishes will include fish, meat and a honey-lavender-glazed duck, Humm said.

Beloved NYC restaurant Elephant & Castle, shuts down after 52 years in business

As I approach my 20th anniversary at EMP, Ive decided its time for change again, Humm said. We will offer a plant-based menu, of course, but also select animal products for certain dishes.

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Eleven Madison Park opened in 1998 with meat on the menu, then transitioned to a plant-based tasting menu in 2021. The Michelin Guide celebrated the restaurant as a bold and innovative vision for fine dining.

The more we can show that responsible eating is easy to put into practice, the more people will make positive choices, Humm told UNESCO in June.

Humm said the decision to bring meat back will make the restaurant an inclusive space.

Eating together is the essence of who we are, Humm said. And Ive learned that to truly champion plant-based cooking, I need to create an environment where everyone feels welcome around the table.

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People took to social media with strong opinions on the change-up. Some, like Chef Thomas Buhner, said its a step in the right direction.

Omnivor Restaurants have to offer, and want to offer vegetarian or vegan alternatives. What is the problem when vegan restaurants offer meat and fish as [an] alternative, he said.

Many others expressed disappointment at the decision to include meat.

This is definitely disappointing considering how firmly you seemed to feel about climate change, the environmental impact of animal agriculture, another commenter said.

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.

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Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden has highlighted a new list of so-called sanctuary counties from the United States Department of Justice.

The list shows jurisdictions that the United States Department of Justice said have policies that hinder federal immigration laws.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Mecklenburg County Sheriff calls for collaboration and transparency with ICE

Mecklenburg County, however, is not on that list. According to McFadden, this shows the county complies with federal standards.

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North Carolina previously passed a law requiring sheriffs to notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement before releasing undocumented immigrants.

McFadden revealed he had not been doing this because state law did not require it at the time.

VIDEO: Sheriff Garry McFadden hopes to meet with state lawmakers, ICE
Job: Rapid response general assignment reporter.

Years at the Register: Started here in June 2025.

I grew up in: The coastal city of Jounieh, Lebanon.

I live in: Downtown Des Moines.

I graduated from: Grinnell College.

Family: My brother, my sister, my mom and dad, and my girlfriend and fellow journalist, Thai.

Email: nelhajj@registermedia.com

Why journalism? Ive always been driven to ask hard questions and bring to light stories and voices that might otherwise go unheard. Journalism helped me find my path after two years of studying to be a veterinarian. One story led to another, and I never really stopped.

Nick El Hajj stands for a photo at the Des Moines Register, June 11, 2025.

I like my job because: No two days are alike, and I get to be curious for a living. Every story takes me somewhere new and teaches me things I never imagined.

Some of the major stories Ive covered recently:

Leadership controversy in Madison County.

Des Moines first citywide housing strategy .

Central Iowas first-ever lawnwatering ban and the broader nitratecontamination debate.

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Some stories Im working on next: Tracking developments across the metro area and beyond!

When Im not working, I like to: Bingewatch animal documentaries, have cooking dates with my girlfriend, loop around Blank Park Zoo and catch an F1 race or two. I pick up random hobbies Ill probably drop in a couple of weeks, take scenic drives and play with my hamster, Peanut.

My favorite Iowa haunt: Skydiving (being hurled out of a moving plane like a bag of potatoes) in Brooklyn, Iowa.

Fun fact about me: Im a twin and a whole five minutes older than my brother.

Nick El Hajj is a reporter at the Register. He can be reached at nelhajj@gannett.com. Follow him on X at @nick_el_hajj.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Nick El Hajj joins Des Moines Register as new rapid response reporter
As US second lady, Usha Vance fills a position traditionally relegated to the sidelines of White House life, which may well suit a political spouse who has never sought out the limelight.

Yet, according to her friends, the 39-year-old has played anything but a subordinate role in the rapid rise of her husband, US Vice-President JD Vance.

And she has occasionally found herself in the media eye after her husband's rise to power - including with a controversial trip to Greenland.

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As a hard-working child of immigrants who has moved between the rarefied cloisters of Cambridge, Yale and the Supreme Court to reach the pinnacle of public life, Usha Vance is for many admirers a living embodiment of the American Dream.

Even her husband, 41, seems overawed by her elite credentials. The former Ohio senator has said her accomplishments leave him feeling "humbled".

[Getty Images]

Usha Vance (nee Chilukuri) was born and raised in the working-class suburbs of San Diego, California, to a mechanical engineer father and a molecular biologist mother who had moved to the US from Andhra Pradesh, India.

She graduated with a BA in history from Yale University and was also a Gates Scholar at Cambridge University, where she came away with an MPhil in early modern history.

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It was as a student at Yale Law School in 2010 that she met Vance, when they joined a discussion group on "social decline in white America".

The experience influenced her future husband's bestselling 2016 memoir Hillbilly Elegy, about his childhood in the white working-class US Rust Belt. It became a 2020 movie directed by Ron Howard.

[Getty Images]

In his book, Vance writes how he "fell hard" for Usha at Yale, describing her as a "genetic anomaly" because she possessed so many ideal qualities.

Vance recalls how he "violated every rule of modern dating" by telling her he was in love after one date.

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Classmates remember her as someone who stood out in the hyper-competitive world of Ivy League law for her willingness to lend a helping hand.

Charles Tyler, now a law professor, told the BBC that Usha Vance would take time to advise other students on how to apply for the highly prized judicial clerkships that she herself wanted.

[Getty Images]

Another classmate, who spoke to the BBC on condition of anonymity, recalls a similar lack of sharp elbows in Usha Vance.

"She was an excellent student, like, top of our law school class," she says. "And sometimes when students are like that, they also, you know, want to maintain an edge over other students.

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"But she was someone who would always share her outlines [class notes]. They were, like, perfectly organised, you know, colour-coded, the works."

Tyler says Usha Vance has a great deal of influence over her husband, although they "have a very equal partnership".

The other friend concurs.

"She's always like a sounding board for him," she says. "And, you know, she's been his spirit guide pretty much since Yale."

[Getty Images]

Usha Vance's own political views have been the subject of much conjecture.

While her husband has often railed about "woke" ideas he says are pushed by Democrats, she was a registered Democrat as recently as a decade ago. Until last summer she was a trial lawyer at San Francisco law firm Munger Tolles & Olson, which boasts its reputation as "radically progressive".

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Yet she once clerked for Brett Kavanaugh, now a Supreme Court justice, on the District of Columbia court of appeals, then clerked for Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts - both men are pillars of the highest court's conservative majority.

One thing the power couple do seem very much to agree on is the importance of family.

The Vances wed in Kentucky in 2014 and have three children: two sons, Ewan and Vivek, and a daughter, Mirabel.

[Getty Images]

Usha Vance told Fox News that her husband's emphasis on the cultural importance of a loving home stems partly from his own upbringing, but also from "knowing that the stability and sort of calm that I provide in our family life comes from all the support that I had, the faith that things would be OK, because I had people behind me".

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The vice-president says they have very different parenting approaches to their children - ages 8, 5 and 3 - when they are having a tantrum.

"It is amazing," Vance told a conservative podcaster in August. "She's super patient. She'll try to reason with them."

"If they have a tantrum in a public place, I immediately grab them, take them to the bathroom and say, 'You got to cut that [expletive] out,'" he said.

In India, there is immense pride in Usha Vance's storybook life, not least of all from her own relatives.

Her great-grand-aunt in Andhra Pradesh told the BBC that she is not surprised by the US second lady's success, given that she comes from a long line of Hindu scholars.

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Chilukuri Santhamma, a physics professor from Andhra Pradesh, said: "Not everyone can climb to the top in a foreign country and achieve accolades and it's fortunate that Usha has reached to the position that happens for one in millionth."

Additional reporting by Soutik Biswas in Delhi
(NewsNation)  Netflix has released the long-awaited trailer for the second season of With Love, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussexs Netflix lifestyle series, and in it, Meghan served up a new revelation about her husband, Prince Harry.

The upcoming season features a star-studded guest list, including Tan France, Chrissy Teigen and world-renowned Spanish chef Jose Andres, who was visibly shocked to learn a surprising detail about Prince Harrys eating habits.

You know who doesnt like lobster? My husband, Meghan says in the trailer about the Duke of Sussex, 40.

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Royals who abdicated the throne or stepped back

And you married him anyway? Andres replies, followed by laughter.

The lighthearted reveal comes shortly after Meghans 44th birthday, which she celebrated in Los Angeles on August 4. Around the same time, speculation swirled as to whether Netflix would renew the couples reported $100 million production deal, first inked in 2020.

Harry, Meghan strike new deal with Netflix

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced Monday that they struck a new multiyear deal with Netflix through their Archewell Productions company in which the red-letter streaming service will have a first-look deal for film and television projects.

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According to The New York Times, the new deal is less restrictive, allowing the pair to shop projects elsewhere if Netflix passes on them.

Life after the UK for Meghan and Harry

In addition to Meghans work in front of the camera, the actress turned royal has found success behind the scenes in recent months.

Get fact-based, unbiased news coverage 24/7 with the NewsNation app. Download it here.

The March launch of her lifestyle brand saw two sold-out product drops soon after, validating a remark Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos made about Meghan earlier this year, saying, I think Meghan is underestimated in terms of her influence on culture. Netflix is also investing in As Ever as the pair are expected to continue expanding into new project categories.

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Season 2 of With Love, Meghan premieres August 26 on Netflix.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
When it comes to mercury pollution, the Environmental Protection Agency's latest move has lawmakers and moms alike saying this rollback is toxic.

What's happening?

In June, the EPA announced it would revert mercury pollution regulations for power plants back to 2012 standards, which removes 2024 amendments that required facilities to cut back on mercury, arsenic, nickel, and other dangerous air pollutants.

The rollback follows a wave of exemptions granted to coal-fired plants earlier this year by President Donald Trump.

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As the coincidentally named Virginia Mercury media outlet reported, 73 members of Congress urged the agency to reverse course, warning that the rollback puts children, communities of color, and low-income Americans in direct harm's way.

According to the EPA's own analysis, repealing the updated Mercury and Air Toxics Standards could save polluters $1.2 billion in compliance costs over the next decade, but at the cost of $300 million in lost health benefits.

"Rolling back the MATS rule is a cruel abandonment of the agency's statutory obligations that will endanger children's health, harm communities, and let the worst industrial polluters off the hook," lawmakers wrote in their letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.

Why is mercury concerning?

Mercury is a highly dangerous neurotoxin. Even small amounts can cause irreversible brain damage in infants and young children, with links to birth defects, learning disabilities, and developmental delays.

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Toxic particles from power plants settle into waterways, where they accumulate in fish, which is a food source for both people and animals.

These emissions also disproportionately impact communities that live near or downwind of coal-fired plants, which tend to be lower-income or communities of color.

What's being done about mercury?

Congressional leaders have asked the EPA to extend the public comment period from 55 to 75 days and to hold more than one hearing.

Advocacy groups like Moms Clean Air Force are mobilizing concerned parents and communities to speak out, and have launched a petition to urge the EPA not to roll back MATS protections.

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Moms Clean Air Force is a nonpartisan, nonprofit group committed to protecting children from air pollution. The group educates the public on pollution risks and empowers families with easy ways to take action.

More broadly, everyday people can help protect public health by supporting clean energy initiatives, modernizing their homes where possible, and urging elected officials to prioritize environmental justice in policymaking.

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.




MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Memphis Police Department cruiser was overturned in Midtown after the officer swerved when another vehicle entered the officers lane, according to Memphis Police.

At 4:24 p.m., an officer was involved in a one-vehicle crash at 29 North Avalon Street.

They said no injuries were reported, and that preliminary information says that the officer swerved to avoid a collision with a black car that entered the officers lane.

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Johna McMahon, a witness to the incident, shared her reaction of the crash.

A loud noise. Im like, Oh, wow! And I turned my head and looked right at the car wash and all of a sudden, all these policemen came, she said.

I didnt actually see the policeman turn over or nothing, but I heard a lot of stuff and saw a lot of lights.

The officer involved in this crash was cited for following too close.

The police report also shows he was not in emergency mode.

Photo by WREG Photo by WREG Photo by WREG

MPD officer crashes after suffering medical issue

Last Thursday, a Memphis police officer was injured in a one-vehicle crash in the Crosstown area after experiencing a medical issue.

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The accident happened at North Bellevue and North Parkway, where the officer lost control of his police cruiser and crashed into a pole.

N Bellevue and N Parkway. Viewer submitted photo

The MPD did not disclose the medical issue. The officer was taken to the hospital in non-critical condition.

MPD: Officer wont be cited after squad car crash in parking lot

In another incident last week, an officer flipped his patrol car in the parking lot of the Lincoln on the Green Apartments in the Southwind area.

photos by Bruce Moore, WREG

Police say the officer was not responding to a call and was not in emergency mode when the crash took place.

Police say the officer was not responding to a call and was not in emergency mode when the crash took place.

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The crash took place on private property, and as such, a citation will not be issued, an MPD public information officer said in an email on Wednesday.

Despite the number of accidents that have involved Memphis Police cruisers, some Memphians say the officers should be given grace.

Theyre human beings too. Theyre going to have accidents too, you know. God bless them for helping us, McMahon said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The Brief

Four men are facing charges in connection with a series of trailer thefts around metro Atlanta.

Investigators say the trailers were stolen from Forest Park and Atlanta and were found abandoned and empty in Macon.

The four men remain at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center without bond.

MACON, Ga. - Georgia deputies and FBI agents have arrested four people accused of being connected with the theft of multiple trailers across metro Atlanta.

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Investigators say the trailers were found abandoned with everything inside but the pallets taken.

What we know

According to authorities, the first two trailers were reported stolen in December 2024 out of Forest Park.

Deputies were able to use GPS to track the trailers to Macon. One of the missing trailers was found on Eisenhower Parkway near Interstate 475. The other was located on the 3100 block of Antioch Road. Both were empty.

Months later, deputies with the Bibb County Sheriff's Office say another trailer reported missing in Atlanta was found parked on the 3400 block of Napier Avenue in Macon. Like the other two, it was empty.

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Investigators say the group stole merchandise including flat-screen televisions, television wall mounts, mini fridges, sinks, and other consumable goods from the trailers before abandoning them.

Dig deeper

During their investigation, officials say they identified multiple suspects connected with the thefts. On July 21, deputies and agents with the FBI apprehended Quintin Marques Barkley, Willie Bernard Bigby, Terrell Jamelle Cordy and Travis Dewaine Harvey. A search of a home on the 500 block of Barlett Street led officials to find multiple items reported stolen from the trailers.

All four men are charged with felony theft by taking and violation of the Georgia RICO Act. Bigby and Cordy are also charged with felony theft by receiving stolen property.

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Investigators say Bigby was wanted in Dooly County at the time of his arrest, and Cordy was out on bond for a reported hit-and-run and police chase.

All four men have been denied bond and remain in custody at the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

The Source

Information for this article came from a release by the Bibb County Sheriff's Office.
LIBERTY, Ohio (WKBN)  Police arrested two men after a reported Walmart theft led to a police chase and eventual traffic stop, where officers found suspected drugs and a firearm.

Read next: Browns rookie QB injured at practice Wednesday

It began just before 7 p.m. Friday when police received a call from Walmarts asset protection crew stating two men had stolen T-bone steaks and mens underwear. The employee told police the men were being uncooperative with loss prevention staff and then ran away before getting into a black Chevy SUV and taking off.

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An officer initiated the chase in the area of Belmont Avenue and Laurel Street. During the pursuit, the officer stated the driver was observing his presence in the rearview mirror and looking at him when going around a turn within a nearby parking lot.

The pursuit continued back onto E. Montrose Street, where it failed to stop at a stop sign. The officer stated he was able to pull beside the SUV near Goldie Road, where he wrote in reports that the driver looked right at me, gestured and stated, Im going back to Walmart.'

Shortly after, the officer was able to position his patrol car in front of the fleeing SUV, ending the pursuit. The officer then got out of his patrol car, pointed his firearm at the suspects, and ordered the driver to turn off the vehicle.

However, reports state the driver did not comply, again telling the officer, We are going back to Walmart. The officer said after instructing him around seven times, the man complied, and the officer put his gun away.

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The driver of the vehicle exited the vehicle against instructions of police, telling them he was coming back to where the problem was at, reports state. Both the driver and passenger of the SUV were handcuffed and placed into custody.

During a search of the SUV, officers reported recovering a firearm. During a pat-down of the passenger, police located a black scale and a clear plastic bag with multiple unknown tablets inside. When asked what the tablets are, reports state the passenger replied, I dont know, these arent even my pants. The passenger is also accused of providing police with a false Social Security number when they tried to identify him.

Police then spoke to the driver, who said he was attempting to come back to Walmart to clear up what happened and that he didnt know what their problem was since he gave back their items.

At first, the driver admitted the firearm belonged to him, but reports state he then backtracked and said it did not belong to him. Officers noted he changed his story multiple times.

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The driver was charged with failure to comply, tampering with evidence, improperly handling firearms in a motor vehicle, obstructing official business, theft, carrying concealed weapons, and numerous traffic charges. He appeared in court for a pretrial on Wednesday morning.

The passenger is charged with carrying concealed weapons, theft, falsification, obstructing official business, drug paraphernalia offenses, and improperly handling firearms in a motor vehicle.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Attorneys for death row inmate Ralph Leroy Menzies say one way or another, their client will die in prison.

But attorney Eric Zuckerman says the Board of Pardons and Parole should allow Menzies to die from his terminal illness and not by firing squad.

Mr Menzies will die in this prison, he told the board. The question is whether he will die from his terminal vascular dementia, or whether the state of Utah will hasten his death by shooting him.

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On Wednesday, the 2-day commutation hearing for Menzies got started at the Utah State Prison. At stake is whether the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole will change Menziess death sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Menzies, 67, is scheduled to be executed by firing squad early on the morning of Sept. 5.

Over the next three days, board members will hear testimony from attorneys both for and against commuting his sentence, as well as representatives of Maurine Hunsaker, a 26-year-old mother of three, who in 1986 Menzies robbed, kidnapped, tethered to a tree near Storm Mountain in Big Cottonwood Canyon, and slit her throat.

Menziess attorneys are addressing the board first. Once they are finished, the state will present its case. The third phase of the hearing has times set aside for three victim representatives to address the board, which typically involves family members. That will be followed by closing arguments from each side.

Zuckerman argued Wednesday morning that his client is not the same person he was when he was convicted 37 years ago. He has grown old and has a terminal illness.

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Thats not a matter of argument or to be debated, Zuckerman said. His brain is literally shrinking.

While Zuckerman says the defense recognizes that Menzies has had more a life than his victim, Hunsaker, his life has been limited by being incarcerated for the past 37-years.

It has not been a good life, he said while adding that the execution of Menzies will not bring Hunsaker back. (Its) not the only way to bring closure to this situation.

Several medical doctors are expected to testify on Wednesday about Menziess vascular dementia. Zuckerman said the state is expected to argue that Menzies actually knows what is going on. But he countered that ebbs and flows with his dementia and sporadic moments of clarity from a year ago do not negate the fact that he still has terminal dementia.

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Menziess attorneys are further expected to argue that an inmate whose testimony was key in getting the original death penalty decision actually committed perjury and now admits he made up his testimony. Furthermore, the judge who sentenced Menzies to death admitted before his death that the sentence was the wrong decision in this case.

Utah has never executed a person where the sentencing judge believes he made a mistake, Zuckerman told the board.

The option of sentencing a person to life in prison without the possibility of parole was not available when Menzies was convicted.

Zuckerman noted Wednesday that he will not argue Menziess competency, but rather provide new information that has been learned over the past 37 years and argue the original reasons for giving Menzies the death sentence no longer exist.

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Menzies sat in a wheelchair in an orange prison jumpsuit with his supplemental oxygen tank during Wednesdays hearing.

While Taberon Dave Honie directly addressed the board during his commutation hearing last year, it is unclear if Menzies will do the same. In their petition for a commutation hearing, his attorneys noted that they have advised Mr. Menzies not to speak, as he cannot meaningfully prepare, recall his remarks, or remain focused on the subject at hand.

In their response, the Utah Attorney Generals Office, however, contends that Menzies understands the world. He is not confused. While he needs help with some things, he has not forgotten how to care for himself. If he is scared, its not an irrational fear caused by dementia; it is instead a rational fear of his impending death.

Commuting Menzies sentence would mean vitiating a sentence, and a penalty-phase case, that every reviewing state and federal court has found to be constitutionally fair, the state continued.

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Separate from the hearing before the Board of Pardons, a 3rd District judge is also currently reviewing the latest request by Menzies to reconsider his mental competency. Depending on the judges decision, Menziess execution date could be delayed.

Once the three-day hearing is over, the full five-member board will take all the information made available to them under advisement and, at some point before Sept. 5, vote on whether to change Menzies death sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole. A final decision will be based on a majority vote.

The last two inmates executed by the state also were granted commutation hearings. Honie was granted a commutation hearing last year, as was Ronnie Lee Gardner in 2010. The board ultimately rejected their arguments, however, and both executions proceeded as scheduled. Gardner was the last Utah inmate put to death by firing squad. Honie died by lethal injection.

This story will be updated.
CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO)  Mercyhealth has agreed to a $1 million settlement and to reinstate employees who were fired for refusing to comply with the companys COVID-19 vaccine policy.

The settlement comes after an investigation by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which found reasonable cause to believe Mercyhealth discriminated against employees based on their religion, terminating their employment or subjecting them to a wage deduction.

The EEOC charged that Mercyhealth denied a religious accommodation to employees who did not receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and would only allow them to work if they signed a form allowing the company to deduct a vaccine incentive charge of $60 a month from their paycheck.

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Employees who did not get the vaccine or sign the form were terminated.

The EEOC said the policy violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on religion.

The agreement requires Mercyhealth to provide back pay and compensatory damages within three years.

Mercyhealth respects the religious beliefs and practices of its employees, said Kara Sankey, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Chief Nursing Officer for Mercyhealth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercyhealth had to confront and address extraordinary challenges in order to carry out its charitable health care mission, while doing its best to protect the health and safety of its patients and its employees and comply with federal rules requiring all hospital staff to receive vaccinations.

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This is an example of what our agency can accomplish when we work with employers to ensure that the doors of our workplaces are equally open to religious employees, said EEOC Acting Chair Andrea Lucas. I am proud of the monetary relief that we have obtained here, and I am equally proud that these employeeswho remained committed to their religious beliefs and practice at great personal costwill receive job offers.

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said the positions of Ukraine, its European allies and US President Donald Trump are "very much in agreement" ahead of a planned meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska later this week.

"In Alaska, fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be safeguarded. That was the message that we Europeans gave President Trump today," Merz said following online talks in Berlin.

"And I can say that we were very much in agreement on both the assessment of the starting position and the achievable goal for this Friday," the German leader, speaking alongside Zelensky, said.

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Merz, Zelensky and a number of European leaders held talks via video link with Trump and his Vice President JD Vance to discuss the US president's upcoming meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday.

The talks were arranged at short notice by Merz, with Zelensky personally joining him on Wednesday at the Chancellery in Berlin.

Ahead of the talks with Trump and Vance, Zelensky joined a preliminary video discussion just among European leaders which was to include leaders from France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Berlin said the aim of the talks was to ensure Kiev and its European partners are fully involved in the preparations for Trump's Friday meeting with Putin in Anchorage, which is expected to be focussed on the war in Ukraine.

European governments fear the TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected.
US President Donald Trump has threatened Russian President Vladimir Putin with "very severe consequences" if he does not agree to end the war in Ukraine.

Trump said that Putin should prepare for this if he does not agree to end the war during their meeting on Friday in the city of Anchorage in the US state of Alaska. In response to a follow-up question about whether by consequences he meant tariffs, the US president did not elaborate.

Trump and his Vice President JD Vance had earlier met online with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the Alaska summit.

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the positions of Ukraine, its European allies and Trump are "very much in agreement" ahead of the Alaska summit.

"In Alaska, fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be safeguarded. That was the message that we Europeans gave President Trump today," Merz said in Berlin following the talks.

"And I can say that we were very much in agreement on both the assessment of the starting position and the achievable goal for this Friday," the German leader said alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who had travelled to Berlin for the talks.

Zelensky in Berlin

The talks were arranged at short notice by Merz, with Zelensky joining him in person on Wednesday at the Chancellery in Berlin.

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Ahead of the talks with Trump and Vance, Zelensky joined a preliminary online discussion just among his European allies which included leaders from France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Berlin said the aim of the talks was to ensure Kiev and its European partners were fully involved in the preparations for Trump's meeting with Putin. European governments fear the TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected.

Ukraine seeks security guarantees

Zelensky said after the consultations that he hopes for an immediate ceasefire as well as robust security guarantees for his country from the upcoming summit.

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Zelensky stressed that in all negotiations concerning the future of his country, Ukraine must have a seat at the table.

Furthermore, he asserted that Russia should not be granted a veto regarding Ukraine's NATO membership.

Merz said that Ukraine needs security guarantees on the path to a possible peace with Russia. Such guarantees were briefly discussed during the consultations that included Zelensky, Merz said. "We know that Ukraine needs security guarantees," he added.

Europeans name five points

Merz told a press conference that the Europeans "want President Donald Trump to be successful in Anchorage on Friday."

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He also reiterated five main points for a peace deal with Russia.

For the Anchorage meeting to yield an outcome acceptable to all, it has to be made clear that Ukraine will be allowed to be at the table in potential follow-up talks, Merz said alongside Zelensky.

"We want negotiations to take place in the right order. There must be a ceasefire at the beginning," said Merz.

Essential elements should then be agreed in a framework agreement, he added.

Regarding a third condition for a potential peace deal, Merz said: "Ukraine is ready to negotiate on territorial issues. However, the so-called line of contact must be the starting point and legal recognition of Russian occupation is out of the question. The principle that borders may not be changed by force must continue to apply."

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Fourthly, Merz called for "robust security guarantees for Kiev" and for Ukraine's ability to defend itself to be maintained, while lastly, any future negotiations must be part of "a common trans-Atlantic strategy."

Leaders react to Wednesday meeting

European leaders presented a united front after Wednesday's call.

"Today Europe, the US and NATO have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on the social media platform X.

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She spoke of "a very good call" during which they exchanged views on the upcoming bilateral meeting in Alaska.

European Council President Antonio Costa spoke of "very useful calls today on Ukraine with [Trump], [Zelensky] and European leaders, ahead of the important bilateral meeting in Alaska."

"The EU is determined to work closely and in unity with the US to end Russias war of aggression and secure a just and lasting peace," Costa posted on X.

NATO chief Rutte also spoke of a "great call."

"We are united in pushing to end to this terrible war against [Ukraine and] achieve just and lasting peace. Appreciate [Donald Trump's] leadership & close coordination with Allies. The ball is now in Putin's court," Rutte posted on X.

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Pope Leo XIV said he always hopes "for a ceasefire, that the violence will stop and that they will come to an agreement."

Macron pushes for trilateral meeting with Zelensky

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for a trilateral meeting between Trump, Putin and Zelensky in Europe.

Following the call with the US president and European leaders, Macron said at his summer residence in Bormes-les-Mimosas in the south of France on Wednesday that Trump wanted to push for such a gathering.

"We wish for it to be held in Europe, in a neutral country that is accepted by all sides," Macron posted on the social media platform X.

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Macron also said that Trump had been very clear that the goal of the US was to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine at the meeting with Putin in Alaska.

Trump also suggested a possible meeting between Zelensky and Putin after his planned summit with Putin on Friday.

"We'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there," he said in Washington.

However, he said he wanted to wait and see how his planned meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday would go, as it might not lead to another meeting.
(KRON)  Facebook parent company Meta has reportedly tapped conservative, anti-diversity activist Robby Starbuck as an artificial intelligence advisor. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Starbuck has been retained by Meta as part of a legal settlement reached with the influencer.

Starbuck had previously filed a lawsuit against Meta claiming Meta AI had wrongly stated he was part of the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the United States Capitol. As part of the settlement, Starbuck will reportedly advise Meta on addressing ideological and political bias in its AI chatbot.

Starbuck, known for targeting corporate DEI programs, said he discovered the claims made by Metas AI in August 2024, when he was going after woke DEI policies at motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson.

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Palo Alto neighbors reportedly miffed at Zuckerbergs Crescent Park compound

One dealership was unhappy with me and they posted a screenshot from Metas AI in an effort to attack me, he said in a post on X. This screenshot was filled with lies. I couldnt believe it was real so I checked myself. It was even worse when I checked.

Conservative influencer Robby Starbuck speaks during an interview in New York, US, on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. The US Department of Justice signaled its intent to use criminal investigations to root out DEI practices in the private sector. Photographer: Bess Adler/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Since then, he said he has faced a steady stream of false accusations that are deeply damaging to my character and the safety of my family.

The political commentator and influencer has previously said he was in Tennessee during the Jan. 6 riot.

Last month, President Donald Trump issued an executive order to make AI less woke.

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Beloved Berkeley gourmet grocery store to close, citing Trumps tariffs

Since engaging on these important issues with Robby, Meta has made tremendous strides to improve the accuracy of Meta AI and mitigate ideological and political bias, Meta and Starbuck said in a statement. Building on that work, Meta an Robby Starbuck will work collaboratively in the coming months to continue to find ways to address issues of ideological and political bias and minimize the risk that the model returns hallucinations in response to user queries.

In a world where AI is rapidly becoming a part of our lives, ideological fairness and honesty is critical, said Starbuck in a post on X. As part of our resolution, Meta and I will work together to make that fairness and honesty a reality.

Starbuck, a former music video director, has no previous background training AI large language models (LLMs). Previously, he was an outspoken proponent of Donald Trumps 2020 election denialism, and a promoter of anti-trans, and anti-diversity misinformation.

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Meta is headquartered in Menlo Park. Its founder Mark Zuckerberg lives in Palo Alto.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
ATLANTA (WJW)  A meteorite that crash-landed into a Georgia home earlier this summer turns out to be millions of years older than Earth itself, according to researchers at the University of Georgia.

NASA confirmed that many people in the southeastern U.S. reported seeing the fireball flying across the sky in broad daylight on June 26.

It was first seen above Oxford, Georgia, before disintegrating 27 miles above West Forest, Georgia, unleashing an energy of about 20 tons of TNT, NASA said.

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WATCH: Jellyfish populating in Lake Erie waters off coast of Put-in-Bay

Doppler radar at the time detected meteorites falling to the ground in the area and, according to the University of Georgia, fragments ripped through a McDonough residents roof into his living room.

The space rock left a dent in the floor and sounded like a gunshot upon impact, UGA wrote in a press release over the weekend.

I suspect that he heard three simultaneous things. One was the collision with his roof, one was a tiny cone of a sonic boom and a third was it impacting the floor all in the same moment, UGA department of geology researcher Scott Harris said in the release. There was enough energy when it hit the floor that it pulverized part of the material down to literal dust fragments.

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Twenty-three pieces of the space rock, named McDonough Meteorite, were handed over to Harris, who determined that the pieces were incredibly old.

Harris said in the release that he believes the meteorite is a low metal ordinary chondrite, meaning it formed roughly 4.56 billion years ago.

MAGICAL! New pictures of Ohios most expensive home listing

According to The Planetary Society, Earth is believed to be about 4.54 billion years old.

It belongs to a group of asteroids in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter that we now think we can tie to a breakup of a much larger asteroid about 470 million years ago, Harris continued. But in that breakup, some pieces get into Earth-crossing orbits, and if given long enough, their orbit around the sun and Earths orbit around the sun end up being at the same place, at the same moment in time.

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According to the university, Harris is now working alongside researchers at Arizona State University to send the findings with the meteors name to the Nomenclature Committee of the Meteoritical Society.

Space enthusiasts hoping to see the spectacle for themselves are in luck. Another meteorite from the fireball is on display at the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, officials announced on Facebook last 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Aug. 12 (UPI) -- Mexico has transferred 26 people suspected of leading drug cartels to the United States, both countries confirmed Tuesday, as President Donald Trump continues pressing the Mexican government on the criminal networks.

Mexico's Secretary of Security and Civilian Protection Omar Garcia Harfuch confirmed the transfer in a post on X, writing that the deal was reached "in bilateral coordination and with full respect for our sovereignty." The U.S. Justice Department agreed to not seek the death penalty, Garcia wrote in his post.

The suspected cartel leaders face a litany of federal and state charges related to drug trafficking, kidnaping, human smuggling, illegal use of firearms, the murder of a sheriff's deputy and others, according to a U.S. Justice Department press release.

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"These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country," U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. "We are grateful to Mexico's National Security team for their collaboration in this matter."

Those transferred include Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, who is accused of being a leader of Los Cuinis, a Mexican cartel known for trafficking large quantities of cocaine into the United States.

Another transferee is Roberto Salazar, who is wanted in connection with the murder of a Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputy, who was killed in 2008 when leaving his home early in the morning.

Others include alleged members of the security apparatus for the Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, leading attacks on Mexican government and military officials with high-powered military-style weapons.

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The transfer comes a day after the U.S. Justice Department agreed to return 14 Mexican nationals serving drug-related prison sentences in U.S. prisons to facilities in their native country. The Mexican prisoners wanted to finish their sentences closer to their communities, and the United States saved millions of dollars in incarceration costs.

Despite the recent cooperation, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has insisted her government will not allow the United States to deploy its military in Mexico to combat cartels.
Mexico has expelled 26 alleged high-ranking cartel members to the United States, in its latest deal with the administration of President Donald Trump.

The transfer was confirmed by a joint statement from the Mexican attorney generals office and its security ministry on Tuesday.

The statement said that the US Justice Department had sought the extradition and that it had given guarantees that the death penalty would not be levied against any of those prosecuted.

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The transfer comes as the Trump administration continues to exert pressure on Mexico to take more action against criminal gangs involved in drug smuggling and human trafficking.

Part of that pressure campaign has come in the form of tariffs, with certain Mexican exports to the US now taxed at a higher rate.

Trump has described the import tax as necessary to hold Mexico accountable for the extraordinary threat posed by illegal aliens and drugs.





In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has struck a careful balance when dealing with Trump, cooperating on some security issues, while drawing clear lines when it comes to her countrys sovereignty. That has included vehemently opposing any US military intervention on Mexican soil.

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Still, US media reported last week that Trump has secretly signed an order directing the military to take action against drug-smuggling cartels and other criminal groups from Latin America, which could presage the deployment of US forces both domestically and abroad.

The move on Tuesday was the second time in recent months that Mexico has expelled alleged criminal gang members wanted by the US.

In February, Mexico extradited 29 alleged cartel figures, including Rafael Caro Quintero, who is accused of killing a US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent in 1985.

That deal came as Trump threatened to impose blanket 25-percent tariffs on Mexican imports, but the scope of that tariff threat was later pared down.

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Currently, the US imposes a 25-percent tariff on Mexican-made cars and products not covered under a pre-existing free trade accord, the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Mexico also faces a 50-percent tax on its steel, aluminium and copper products.

But at the end of July, Trump agreed to extend a tariff exemption for goods that fall under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement for 90 days.





The Associated Press news agency reported that Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, the leader of Los Cuinis, a drug-trafficking group closely aligned with the notorious Cartel Jalisco New Generation (CJNG), was among those expelled to the US in the latest deal.

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The Trump administration took the unorthodox move of designating the CJNG and seven other Latin American crime groups as foreign terrorist organisations upon taking office.

Valencia is the brother-in-law of CJNG leader Nemesio Ruben El Mencho Oseguera Cervantes, who is considered one of the most wanted people in Mexico and the US.

Valencia was arrested in February 2015 in Mexico and had since been fighting extradition to the US.

Another individual, Roberto Salazar, stands accused of participating in the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy, a source told the news agency.
Mexico has sent 26 inmates suspected of playing high-profile roles in some of the country's most powerful drug cartels to the US, the second transfer of its kind this year.

US officials said the individuals extradited included "key operatives" of major drugs gangs, and have been charged with violent offences or links to organised crime in American courts.

Mexico said the individuals - who have not been publicly identified - represented "a permanent risk to public security".

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The latest prisoner transfer came as the White House continued to put pressure on its southern neighbour to crack down on drug trafficking across the shared border, including by imposing tariffs on some products.

Mexican officials said they had agreed the inmates could be sent to the US as long as none were considered eligible for the death penalty, a condition successive governments have insisted on when considering extraditions.

The US embassy in Mexico said members of two of the country's most prominent organised crime organisations - the Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) and Sinaloa Cartel - were among those being moved to American prisons.

One of the prisoners reportedly being transferred, Roberto Salazar, is alleged to have murdered an LA County sheriff's deputy.

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Earlier on Tuesday, Mexico's attorney general's office said it was extraditing a woman accused of transporting drugs across the border in 2016 and 2017. It was unclear whether the woman - named only as Rosa A - was included in the group of 26 confirmed later in the day.

In February, Mexico sent 29 prisoners wanted over links to cartels to the US, one of the biggest extraditions in the country's history.

Among those transferred was Caro Quintero, a founding members of the Guadalajara Cartel, who is accused of murdering Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent Enrique 'Kiki' Camarena in 1985.

The criminals involved in the latest transfer may be less well-known than those involved in February, but they are still considered significant figures by US authorities.

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They reportedly include Abigael Gonzalez Valencia - alias El Cuini - who is the brother-in-law of the group's leader, Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera, and said to be a top financial boss for the cartel.

The prisoner transfer was the latest move from a Mexican government seeking to respond to the White House's demands for stronger action against the cartels.

Last week, President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected reports that US President Donald Trump had authorised US agents to target cartel leaders within Mexico.

"The United States is not going to come to Mexico with the military," she said on Friday. "We co-operate, we collaborate, but there is not going to be an invasion. That is ruled out, absolutely ruled out."

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But the latest mass extradition showed continued collaboration between Mexico and the US on the issue of fentanyl trafficking.

Sheinbaum was expected to hold the latest extraditions up as proof that her government was working hard on the security issue, should Trump again threaten to impose tariffs over the question of smuggling across the border.

BBC News has contacted the US Department of Justice for comment.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  The governor of New Mexico declared a state of emergency Wednesday in response to violent crime and drug trafficking across a swath of northern New Mexico, including two Native American pueblo communities.

The emergency declaration by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham makes $750,000 available as local governments and tribal officials in Rio Arriba County call for reinforcements against violent crime as well as other crime and hardships associated with illicit drugs.

The vast county stretches from the city of Espanola, 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Santa Fe, to the Colorado state line and has long been afflicted by opioid use and high drug-overdose death rates, with homeless encampments emerging in recent years in more populated areas.

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The surge in criminal activity has contributed to increased homelessness, family instability and fatal drug overdoses, placing extraordinary strain on local governments and police departments that have requested immediate state assistance," said Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, in a statement.

In April, Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency in New Mexicos largest city, Albuquerque, saying that a significant increase in crime warranted the help of the New Mexico National Guard. Earlier, in 2023, she suspended the right to carry guns at public parks and playgrounds in Albuquerque in response to a series of shootings around the state that left children dead..

There were no immediate calls for troop deployments in Rio Arriba County, though the new emergency declaration allows for authorities to call up the National Guard. Emergency funds will help local law enforcement agencies spend on overtime, equipment and coordinated police responses, said Lujan Grisham spokesperson Jodi McGinnis Porter.

The tribal governor of Santa Clara Pueblo on the edge of Espanola urged the state to address a growing public safety crisis stemming from the use and abuse of fentanyl and alcohol in the community at large.

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The pueblo has expended thousands of dollars trying to address this crisis ... and to protect pueblo children who are directly and negatively affected by a parent's or guardian's addiction, said Santa Clara Gov. James Naranjo in a July letter to Lujan Grisham. But we are not an isolated community and the causes and effects of fentanyl/alcohol abuse, increased crime, and increased homelessness extend to the wider community.

Recent deaths in the region linked by medical investigators to fentanyl and alcohol use include Rio Arriba County Sheriff Billy Merrifield.

In 2020, President Donald Trump sent federal agents, including Homeland Security officers, to Albuquerque as part of an effort to contain violent crime.

Separately on Wednesday, the Albuquerque Police Department announced murder charges against three teenagers  including two juveniles  in the July 2 shooting death of a homeless man in Albuquerque who was chased from a bus stop in the predawn hours. A 15-year-old boy is accused of being the shooter in the killing of 45-year-old Frank Howard, police department spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos said.
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency in the city of Espanola and nearby areas in response to what she calls "a significant surge" in violent crime and drug trafficking.

The governor's order, which also covers the area of Rio Arriba County, Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh, authorizes $750,000 in emergency funding for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to provide resources to those communities, Grisham said in a news release on Wednesday.

Grisham cited police calls in Espanola and surrounding areas having more than doubled in the past two years, with police dispatches to businesses also quadrupling.

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This is the second time this year Grisham has declared a state of emergency over crime in the state. In April, Grisham declared a state of emergency in Albuquerque, authorizing the deployment of about 70 New Mexico National Guard members to New Mexico's largest city.

"When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action," the Democratic governor said Wednesday. "We are making every resource available to support our local partners on the ground and restore public safety and stability to these areas that have been hardest hit by this crisis."

Rio Arriba County has the highest overdose death rate in the state, the governor said. It is just north of Santa Fe County and east of Taos County, and is also home to Abiquiu, most famous for being the home of Georgia O'Keeffe.

Espanola, a small city with just over 10,500 residents, is known for its lowrider culture. Amid high rates of poverty, crime and drug use, those in the lowrider community have been working toward positive change, "60 Minutes" previously reported.

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In 2023, fentanyl was involved in 65% of statewide overdose deaths, according to the state's health department. Santa Fe and Rio Arriba counties were among the places where overdose death rates were higher than the statewide age-adjusted rate.

However, the statewide overdose death numbers have declined 8% since 2021, when they peaked, the New Mexico Department of Health said earlier this year.

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MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexico sent 26 alleged cartel figures to face justice in the United States because the Trump administration requested them and Mexico did not want them to continue running their illicit businesses from Mexican prisons, officials said Wednesday.

The mass transfer was not, however, part of wider negotiations as Mexico seeks to avoid higher tariffs threatened by U.S. President Donald Trump, the officials said.

These transfers are not only a strategic measure to ensure public safety, but also reflect a firm determination to prevent these criminals from continuing to operate from within prisons and to break up their networks of influence, Mexican Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch said in a news conference on Wednesday.

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The 26 prisoners handed over to American authorities on Tuesday included figures aligned with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel among others. They were wanted by American authorities for their roles in drug trafficking and other crimes. It comes months after 29 other cartel leaders were sent to the U.S. in February.

In the exchange, the U.S. Justice Department promised it would not seek the death penalty against any of the 55 people included in the two transfers, which experts say may help avoid any violent outburst by the cartels in response. Authorities said the operation involved nearly a thousand law enforcement officers, 90 vehicles and a dozen military aircraft.

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said earlier Wednesday that the transfers were sovereign decisions, but the move comes as the Mexican leader faces mounting pressure by the Trump administration to crack down on cartels and fentanyl production.

Garcia Harfuch also confirmed Wednesday that a U.S. government drone  non-military  was flying over central Mexico, but at the request of Mexican authorities as part of an ongoing investigation.

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So far, Sheinbaum has tried to show the Trump administration a greater willingness to pursue the cartels than her predecessor  a change that has been acknowledged by U.S. officials  and continued to slow migration to the U.S. border, in an effort to avoid the worst of Trump's tariff threats. Two weeks ago, the two leaders spoke and agreed to give their teams another 90 days to negotiate to avoid threatened 30% tariffs on imports from Mexico.

Little by little, Mexico is following through with this demand by the Americans to deliver drug capos," said Mexican security analyst David Saucedo. "Its buying (the Mexican government) time."

Saucedo said the Mexican government has been able to avoid a burst of violence by cartels  a reaction often seen when capos are captured  in part, because Ovidio Guzman, a son of infamous capo Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, showed it's possible to negotiate with U.S. prosecutors. Ovidio Guzman pleaded guilty last month to drug trafficking and other charges and hopes for a lighter sentence in exchange for his cooperation.

But Saucedo warned that if such mass prisoner transfers continue, the Latin American country is bound to see another outburst of violence in the future.
Justice officials said Tuesday that Mexico has sent 26 wanted fugitives to the United States, including alleged Mexican drug cartel kingpins, amid pressure to crack down on cross-border fentanyl smuggling.

"These fugitives are collectively alleged to have imported into the United States tonnage quantities of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin," the US Department of Justice (DOJ) said in a statement.

US officials released a list of those extradited and currently in their custody, saying they are fugitives wanted for "violent and serious crimes" including drug trafficking, kidnapping, human smuggling and the murder of a Los Angeles sheriff's deputy in 2008, among other crimes.

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US Attorney General Pam Bondi called the transfer "the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations."

The transfer was made "at the solicitation of the US Department of Justice," which "agreed not to seek the death penalty for the prisoners in its country," according to a joint statement from the Attorney General of Mexico and Mexico's Secretariat of Security and Civilian Safety.

The US embassy in Mexico said in a statement that kingpins from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and Sinaloa Cartel are among those who were extradited -- both groups which were designated as terrorist organizations by the US in February.

- 'Common enemies' -

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"These fugitives will now face justice in US courts, and the citizens of both of our nations will be safer from these common enemies," US Ambassador Ronald Johnson said in a statement, praising the government of Mexico "for demonstrating resolve in the face of organized crime."

Among the drug dealers sent to the United States in Tuesday's transfer was Los Cuinis leader Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, whose cartel is accused of trafficking tons of cocaine from South America through Mexico and into the United States.

It also included the Sinaloa Cartel's Leobardo Garcia Corrales, who is accused of trafficking fentanyl into the United States in exchange for weapons "such as AK-47s, grenades and submachine guns," US DOJ officials said.

Abdul Karim Conteh is alleged to have smuggled thousands of migrants through Mexico from around the world -- including Iran, Afghanistan, Somalia, Kazakhstan and other countries -- "by various surreptitious and unlawful means, including the use of ladders and tunnels" to cross the US border, officials said.

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Another transferred fugitive is Roberto Salazar, who is "wanted in connection with the murder of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Juan Escalante," who was killed while leaving his home in 2008, the DOJ said.

All those transferred face a maximum sentence of life in prison, except Conteh, who faces a maximum of 45 years, if convicted.

The handover comes as the North American neighbors negotiate a security agreement that addresses drugs and arms trafficking.

The prisoners were moved under an abbreviated legal procedure, authorities said, which excludes some measures provided in traditional extradition cases.

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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's government defended the move, saying some drug lords regain freedom through judicial corruption.

The transfer is the second such instance since Trump returned to the White House in January.

In late February, Mexico transferred 29 accused narcotraffickers to the United States, including prominent cartel kingpin Rafael Caro Quintero, who was accused of kidnapping and killing DEA special agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena in 1985.

The US currently has other kingpins in custody, including Sinaloa Cartel founders Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who received a life sentence, and Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, who is awaiting trial.

Sheinbaum has pledged to collaborate with Washington on tackling drug trafficking, while rejecting any "invasion" of her country's sovereignty.

ai/axm/nn/sla/jgc
Key Takeaway

The United States Department of State recently issued a Level 2 advisory for travel to Mexico. The advisory level is "exercise increased caution, and spotlights crime and terrorism in the country. Travelers can take extra precautions in advance of visiting the countrykeep reading to learn how.

Travelers to Mexico are being advised to take increased safety precautions.



The United States Department of State recently issued a travel advisory for Mexico on Aug. 12 at Level 2, which means "Exercise Increased Caution." The alert warns travelers of "many violent crimes" occurring in Mexico, as well as terrorism and kidnapping.



While the countrywide Level 2 advisory may be alarming, it is below the Level 3 of "Reconsider Travel" and Level 4 of "Do Not Travel. That said, travelers should be advised that several states within Mexico are at the Level 4 of "do not travel" including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, according to a U.S. State Department map.



The advisory specifically calls out "homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery" within the country, in addition to the terror threats.

Travelers who visit areas of Mexico under the travel advisory should know that there may not be much assistance in the event something goes wrong. The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico, the advisory shares.



For travelers planning to visit Mexico, the United States Embassy in Mexico provides helpful advice. Travelers are discouraged from bringing any e-cigarettes, weapons, swords, or fireworks into the country, unless a permit is issued by the government. Instead of hailing a random cab or ground transport, consider using rideshare apps or arrange ground transportation through a registered company. The government also recommends avoiding driving between cities or in rural areas after dark.



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The U.S. government also urges travelers to cooperate if approached by officials. "When approaching any checkpoint, cooperate, the advisory reads. Avoid any behavior that appears aggressive. Fleeing can raise suspicion and lead to violence.



Travelers can also sign up for the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The free service provides travel information and emergency alerts for a traveler's designated time period in a foreign country.



Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
For some, there is a greater cost to being accused of a crime.

Since 2013, Michigan judges could force non-English speaking criminal defendants whose income exceeds a certain threshold to reimburse the courts for interpreters. This is on track to change.

In a push for what it calls effective assistance, the Michigan Supreme Court proposed an amendment to court rules that would require courts to cover the cost of foreign language interpreters for all criminal defendants.

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It should be non-controversial, said John Nevin, spokesperson for the Michigan Supreme Court. Indigent or non-indigent, costs are covered.

Currently, those deemed non-indigent, or those with a household income 125% above the federal poverty level or more, may be required to pay for interpreter services.

Poverty level an 'outdated' model

The cost can add up.

When we use an individual provider for language services (non-English languages), the cost ranges from $90 to $240 per case, per person needing an interpreter, said Nancy Hames, director of docket support services at Third Circuit Court in Detroit.

Proponents of rule change say there should be no cost to the individual for services that make the hearing accessible.

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The federal poverty level is outdated and based on erroneous assumptions, said University of Michigan law professor Eve Brensike Primus.

Federal Poverty Guidelines have never taken into account the cost of housing, transportation, child care, health care and clothing, Primus said. "They were developed in the 1960s to estimate how much a family would need to spend solely in food to meet minimal nutritional needs.

Now, a person who earns just slightly above 125% of the federal poverty level typically only qualifies to receive government assistance to pay for food, heat and medical care. This person might not have the money to pay for interpretation and still provide basic necessities for family members, Primus explained.

Michigan Supreme Court: Motorist injured by flying concrete on I-696 can sue MDOT

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The move is in line with other movements around the country to not require poor people who are accused of committing crimes to reimburse the government for expenses, she said.

The amendment has received criticism.

A cost to courts

Jay Drick, chairman of the Livingston County Board of Commissioners, opposes the amendment. Drick, in a public comment on the proposed rule, wrote that any cell phone has the ability to translate court proceedings, suggesting efforts to supplant the existing rule are based upon "notions and feelings."

He continued: "It is not the fault of the state of Michigan taxpayers that a person in criminal court has not learned English.

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Drick did not respond to a Free Press request for comment.

The issue of funding is central in this debate.

Macomb County District Court Judge William Hackel III wrote in a public comment: Without the ability to seek some form of reimbursement, this could become fairly expensive for local district court funding units and I do not believe one should presume the local funding units will just up this line item in the budget without cuts to other areas in a court's budget.

However, supporters of the amendment said it is necessary for courts to absorb the cost.

I dont think that access to constitutional rights are subject to a popularity test, said Christopher Vreeland, a public defender in Coldwater, told the Free Press. It costs money. And its costing money right now. And frankly that's just the cost of doing business.

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Vreeland compared the cost to paying for installing wheelchair ramps and working elevators.

When someone is brought before the court they are at risk of losing their personal liberty. They need to have meaningful access to justice, Vreeland said.

In a joint statement with the ACLU, the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center said, eliminating reimbursement for interpretation costs would also establish a criminal court system that is fairer and more equitable to all litigants, regardless of their English proficiency.

The Michigan Supreme Court comment period on the proposed rule change ended July 31 and will be followed by a yet-to-be scheduled public hearing.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Court proposes ban on interpreter fees for criminal defendants
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  A judge sentenced a Caledonia woman, Sandra Baxter, to 20 hours of community service and a fine of $2,500 for providing a false statement during the Unlock Michigan campaign finance investigation. Caledonia is located southeast of Grand Rapids.

In May 2021, retired Michigan Chamber of Commerce officer Robert LaBrant filed a complaint with the Michigan Department of States office that alleges a dark money scheme to use a nonprofit to fund a ballot initiative.

Fundraising consultant pleads guilty in Unlock Michigan scandal

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Baxter was a fundraising consultant who solicited funds for Michigan! My Michigan! and, in March, she admitted in court that she knowingly and willfully made a misleading statement during a criminal investigation. She pleaded guilty to providing a false statement in June.

This plea makes clear that those who attempt to deceive investigators will be held accountable, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. My office remains committed to uncovering the truth and prosecuting individuals who obstruct justice.

Baxter was initially charged with perjury in February 2024.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
MIDLAND  The Midland Independent School Districts board of trustees voted Tuesday night to rename a school after Robert E. Lee, reversing a former boards efforts to distance itself from the Confederate general five years ago.

In a divided 4-3 vote, the trustees voted to return one of its schools, formerly Legacy High, back to Midland Lee High.

[Five years after shedding Confederate moniker, a West Texas high school may be Lee High again]

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Railing against what he described as toxic political correctness, Matt Friez, a board member who voted to reinstate Lees name, said institutions donning Confederate names have outgrown their controversies. In a lengthy statement, Friez said that replacing Confederate-era monikers and removing statues was an attack on the countrys heritage.

This is a distraction from what really matters right now, said Ebony Coleman, founder of Jumpstart Midland, an education advocacy group in Midland, adding that the school district should focus on the students academic outcomes. I feel like (the board) knew that this was ultimately what they were going to do.

Stephanie Howard, the districts superintendent, said the change could cost them as much as $62,000.

The boards vote came after more than 45 residents delivered impassioned testimonies for more than two hours, in turns drawing praise and admonishment from the audience. At many points throughout the evening, the board requested that residents in attendance remain quiet.

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Parents, alumni and former teachers who spoke on Tuesday evening said the schools ties to Lee, commander of the Confederate states army, provoked hurt and discomfort, saying his name evoked a period of history when schools were segregated.

Sue Roseberry, who in 1981 moved to West Texas from New Mexico, said her two daughters and most of her grandchildren attended the school before it was renamed in 2020. She said she cringed when students flew the Confederate flag and played Dixie, a song that became a fixture for the movement.

I want you to know that you have an opportunity [to associate the school] with something that uplifts all of our students.

Barbara Hanley, who taught in the school district for 28 years before retiring, called the effort a waste of money, that only serves to divide the community further.

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Let the old name die, she said.

Many at the meeting also waved the schools old flags with Lees inscription, expressing their support for the name change. Among them was Carrie McNeal, who said the board should have taken up a recommendation in 2020 to change the school's name to Legacy for Equality and Excellence, or L.E.E.

McNeal said she was more interested in preserving the schools history, rather than the man it was named after.

Generations of Midlanders attended Midland Lee, so Im not here to fight for a dead man or his legacy, that means nothing to me, she said.

More all-star speakers confirmed for The Texas Tribune Festival, Nov. 1315! This years lineup just got even more exciting with the addition of State Rep. Caroline Fairly, R-Amarillo; former United States Attorney General Eric Holder; Abby Phillip, anchor of CNN NewsNight; Aaron Reitz, 2026 Republican candidate for Texas Attorney General; and State Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin. Get your tickets today!

TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase.
A man living at a hotel that has been the focus of a series of anti-migrant protests has been charged with sexual assault.

Mohammed Sharwarq, 32, a Syrian national living at The Bell Hotel, Epping, Essex, also faced two counts of common assault and four of assault by beating - concerning four complainants - at a hearing before magistrates in Chelmsford on Wednesday.

Essex Police said the offences were alleged to have taken place between 25 July and 12 August.

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He was arrested on Tuesday and remanded in custody. Officers said they were not seeking any other suspects in relation to the case.

The BBC understands the alleged offences took place within the Bell Hotel.

The hotel has been used by the Home Office to house asylum seekers, and has been the scene of a number of protests in recent weeks.

Dr Neil Hudson, Conservative MP for Epping Forest, said: "I am deeply concerned by reports that a resident of the Bell Hotel has been charged with multiple assaults, including an offence of a sexual nature.

"I have contacted the Home Office urgently, requesting further information and calling for reassurances on management and safeguarding."

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He said he had also been liaising with Essex Police and had written to the Home Secretary calling for the hotel to be "immediately closed for community safety".

In a statement the Home Office said it could not comment on ongoing legal proceedings.

But it said it was changing the law to "ensure individuals convicted of any registered sexual offence can have their asylum claim denied", adding "we will do everything in our power to pursue their deportation from the UK".

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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By Lizbeth Diaz

(Reuters) -Yahir remembers growing up in Mexico without a bed or a stove. He didnt own a pair of shoes until he was 10, and in the mid-1990s  when he was 13  he crossed with a group illegally into the U.S. in search of work.

He settled in California and worked on farms across the state. He met his wife and had six children, the eldest of whom is now 15.

Then, on July 10, Yahir, 43, was apprehended while working at a marijuana farm in southern California, in one of the largest immigration raids since U.S. President Donald Trump took office.

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It was like a nightmare, but I was awake, said Yahir, his skin dotted by sun stains from working in the fields, just hours after being deported to Tijuana. Yahir asked to withhold his last name to protect his family in the U.S..

As Trump ramps up his deportation efforts targeting immigrants in the country illegally, Mexicans - with the largest population of immigrants in the U.S. without status - are living in fear. They are being arrested at restaurants, farms, Home Depot outlets and 7-Eleven convenience stores.

A remarkable 42% of Hispanic adults are worried they or someone close to them might be deported, according to a Pew Research Center survey from earlier this year.

Last week, the Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to halt a court order restricting immigration stops on the basis of what language they speak or where they work.

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Yahir said he knew of other immigrants being deported. But I never thought it would happen to me, he said, adding that he didnt have a criminal record. Reuters couldnt independently confirm his account.

More than 360 alleged immigration offenders were apprehended during the July 10 marijuana farm raids in southern California. One immigrant worker died after he fell 30 feet from a greenhouse roof.

The president of the United Farm Workers union criticized the raids, saying they "terrorize American communities, disrupt the American food supply chain, threaten lives and separate families."

'MY LIFE IS NO LONGER HERE'

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Manuel, 32, another worker at the Camarillo farm, said he hid among marijuana plants in a greenhouse for five hours until agents cut the locks on the door. An agent in military garb then hit him on the head and put a gun to his chest, he said.

Manuel declined to share his last name because he hopes to one day return to the U.S. legally. He overstayed his tourist visa in 2023.

The Department of Homeland Security said it could not comment on Manuel's allegations without further evidence.

After his arrest, Manuel bounced between detention centers and eventually ended up in one in Adelanto, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles, where he said he slept on the floor of a freezing cell that reeked of urine. The torture was more mental but it was horrible, he said.

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Democratic lawmakers who visited the nearly 2,000-bed center in June criticized its conditions, saying some detainees were unable to get fresh clothes or towels for more than a week.

In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security said, "The allegations about the Adelanto detention center are FALSE. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment, and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers."

The DHS added 185,000 people have been deported from the U.S. during the second Trump administration.

Manuel and Yahir were both deported to Tijuana. Manuel has returned to his hometown in the state of Oaxaca but Yahir remains in Tijuana, unsure of what to do next. He has never been away from his children for so long, he said.

I am from Mexico but my life is no longer here.

(Reporting by Lizbeth Diaz; Additional reporting by Ted Hesson; Editing by Emily Green and Aurora Ellis)
WASHINGTON  Utah Sen. Mike Lee is set to publish his seventh book early next year, this time focused on his frustrations with what he refers to as the Uniparty: Instances when Democrats and Republicans work together but, as he sees it, against the interests of the American people.

The book, titled The UniParty, will be released on Feb. 3, 2026, and will be sold for $32, according to a listing by Harper Collins Publishers. The book does not yet have a description about what it will include, but its been listed under the Political Science section for commentary and opinion; American government and national topics; and corruption and misconduct.

The 272-page book comes as Lee has frequently railed against the uniparty in Congress, often using the term when opposing large spending bills or foreign aid packages. These bills, Lee argues, are drafted behind closed doors by Republicans and Democrats without the input or review of the American public.

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The term uniparty was used as early as 1944, when it was invoked in a Pennsylvania newspaper editorial reacting to fabricated news that Franklin D. Roosevelts Republican rival in the 1940 election was handpicked by his adviser Harry Hopkins. The term was used to equate a uniparty with totalitarianism. More recently, it has become a regular word in Lees lexicon.

Lee most recently referred to the uniparty in a post on X last month, when the Senate adjourned for its August recess without a plan to confirm a slate of President Donald Trumps nominees. Lee decried the move, arguing it left significant portions of the U.S. government under the control of Deep State Democrats.

Its an unfortunate thing that The Uniparty often hands Democrats a victory  even in rare moments like these when Republicans control both houses of Congress and the White House, Lee wrote.

While attacks on the uniparty appear to target bipartisan efforts in Congress, Lee has previously clarified he finds cooperation between Republicans and Democrats to be important. Lee has a history of working with Democrats on certain projects in the Senate, including Sens. Amy Klobuchar in Minnesota and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

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Lee said that bipartisanship is still important and he routinely works with Democrats. Just a couple of weeks ago, I was in a meeting with Pramila Jayapal on the House side, and shes a member of the squad, he said. It would be a mild understatement to say that she and I dont always agree on everything.

Other Republicans have similarly railed against the so-called uniparty, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga. In fact, the Georgia Republican cited the uniparty as part of her decision not to run for Senate against vulnerable incumbent Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., next November.

Even with a few good Republicans in the Senate, nothing changes. So no, Jon Ossoff isnt the real problem, she said in a statement in May announcing her intent not to run. Hes just a vote. A pawn. No different than the Uniparty Republicans who skip key votes to attend fundraisers and let our agenda fail.

The Deseret News contacted Lees office for more information on his book.
Nikki Tierney has fought many of the same battles as the people who walk through her door.

She is a licensed counselor with law and masters degrees who treats people with mental health challenges and substance use disorders. But nearly two decades ago, Tierney faced two felonies for altering prescriptions and child endangerment because of a lifelong struggle with drug addiction.

I used to get involuntarily committed quite often, Tierney said. And then I tried to die by suicide. And that was the first time at age 35, I ever got true psychiatric care. And guess what? Ive never looked back.

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In addition to working as a therapist in Monmouth and Ocean counties, Tierney is an advocate for people with substance use disorders.

She published an article in 2023 for the National Center for Advocacy and Recovery for Behavioral Health, which touched upon a subject that is becoming an increasingly growing issue for drug prevention organizations: Government spending of opioid settlement funds.

What are opioid settlement funds?

Opioids are a broad group of drugs that could be acquired through prescription medication or illegally to relieve pain. During the opioid crisis, they were overly prescribed by doctors leading to widespread addiction and many deaths.

In 2022, states and drug companies reached an agreement on a national lawsuit for their role in the epidemic. Opioid manufacturers, distributors and retailers have shelled out billions of dollars and will continue to do so for years to come.

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New Jersey will receive $1.18 billion in settlement funds split equally between the state and local governments through the year 2038. These monies are meant to combat and alleviate the effects of the opioid crisis with treatment, harm reduction, education and other programs.

The state and local governments have received a combined $289 million since the first round of funding began in July 2022.

But, according to advocates and state data, not all counties in New Jersey have put the structures in place to spend the funds, and some have not allocated any funding toward addressing the opioid epidemic.

Money not being spent

Brian Regan of Freedom House, an addiction recovery organization based in Hunterdon County, said some counties have been very focused and proactive in allocating these funds while others have been true laggards.

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Freedom House has been in contact with the Hunterdon Board of County Commissioners regarding opening a request for proposals since holding listening sessions in 2023.

The listening sessions provided opportunities for the community to give input on how the money should be spent, with organizations or businesses then submitting project proposals for funding.

Regan said Freedom House continually asked county officials when they would begin the request for proposal process after the listening sessions where held in summer 2023. According to Regan, the county replied that they were still working on it.

This is a travesty that a county commissioner can be allowed to let this delay for so long when the need is so urgent to ensure that we are putting dollars specifically earmarked for this purpose to good use in the community, Regan said.

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Hunterdon County opened its request for proposal process on June 27 and closed it on July 30. The entire process from listening sessions to analyzing feedback and finally getting project proposals took around three years since settlement funds were first given.

According to Human Services Administrator Susan Nekola, the countys approach is consistent with the timeline followed by other counties.

While we recognize that many community providers are eager to access these funds. We believe it was essential to take the necessary time to craft an RFP that truly reflects the needs of our community, Nekola said.

There are seven counties in the state who have not spent any of the funds received from the settlement program, including Bergen, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon and Mercer counties.

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All told, these counties have a combined total of $18.4 million in unused or uncommitted opioid settlement funds.

Based on annual reports detailing how the funds were spent, Bergen County was the only one on the list to appropriate any money for a future cause. The county set aside $88,960 of the $6.3 million it received to date for a court diversion program.

The reports also outline if the counties completed any listening sessions, risk assessments or formulated a strategic plan for the funds.

Out of New Jerseys 21 counties, only four, Atlantic, Camden, Ocean and Passaic, have created a strategic plan based on the most recently published report.

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Tierney said she was hopeful this money would make a difference once properly appropriated but is disappointed that counties are not more proactive.

I spoke with the League of Municipalities attorney  and he said they dont want to spend on something they shouldnt be. So, its like  paralysis by analysis. So now nobodys spending, Tierney said.

Proactive counties

Other counties did not take such a slow approach.

Camden County was hit hard by the opioid crisis and continues to see a ripple effect today as the second highest county for overdose deaths.

Director of Camden County Health and Human Services, Caryelle Lasher, said within months of the first settlements they had request for proposals in place. There had already been an established Addiction Awareness Task Force since 2014, which Lasher said gave them a good foundation to start on.

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Camden County has sponsored over 16 programs with the settlement funds, including deploying overdose reversal medication in various places, mental health treatment services, education in schools and many other initiatives.

While they had a head start, Lasher said it was more important that they have supportive leadership and to speak with the people most impacted by substance use disorder.

Waiting to spend it is watching people die and not doing everything you can to make a difference. And I think they felt the moral obligation to put this money into action, Lasher said.

Editors note: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

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For help with substance abuse, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for treatment referral and information.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.
Area hospitals will get millions of dollars in state funding, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Hochul has announced nearly $300 million in new state funding to support health care transformation projects across New York. The awards, made through the Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program IV, will support more than 50 projects aimed at expanding access to inpatient, primary, behavioral health and long-term care services, according to a news release from Hochuls office.

Locally, Behavioral Health Services Norths Behavioral Health Campus received $7,249,834 for capital improvements to consolidate, expand and preserve the Certified Community Behavioral Health Care model of care in Plattsburgh.

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This targeted investment will help ensure that every New Yorker  regardless of ZIP code  can access safe, high-quality health care, Hochul said. By supporting providers that serve vulnerable and underserved populations, were strengthening the foundation of our health care system and building a healthier future for all.

Also in the North Country, River Hospital Inc. in Jefferson County will receive $1,547,909 to purchase a new mammography unit.

North Country Family Health Center Inc. received $650,000 to construct a new primary care clinic in Lowville to increase access to essential health services.

Waltons Delaware Valley Hospital got $20 million to expand capacity of the community and drive-thru pharmacy and move and expand the facilitys patient registration area.

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Bassett Healthcare Network will get $7,633,694 to reopen six inpatient psychiatric beds, renovate the emergency department to create a behavioral health treatment area, and construct a convenient care center in Milford.

OConnor Hospital in Delhi, also part of the Bassett network, will get $1,223,773 to renovate the hospitals dental clinic to preserve and expand access to rural dental services.

These awards will help providers deliver more effective, modern, and patient-centered care, State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. We are focused on expanding access and improving outcomes while ensuring the sustainability of vital health services across the state.

According to the release, the funding prioritizes projects that:

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 Improve access to primary, inpatient, behavioral health, and long-term care services;

 Support financially distressed and community-based

providers;

 Expand patient-centered models of care; and

 Modernize critical infrastructure.

Awardees include hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centers, behavioral health organizations, and long-term care providers in every region of the state. Funds will be administered by the state Department of Health and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

This investment builds on Gov. Hochuls continued efforts to strengthen New Yorks health care delivery system, the release stated.

In 2023, Hochul announced more than $650 million in transformation funding through earlier rounds of the program. Since 2017, the Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program has awarded more than $4.7 billion to providers working to improve access, equity, and quality of care across New York, according to the release.
(KRON)  A 32-year-old Milpitas man and a second man drowned in the Colorado River during a pontoon boat excursion in Arizona, officials said. The victims were identified by sheriffs officials and family members as Venkata Srinivas Mukkaala of Milpitas, and Anoop Gankidi, 32 of Tempe, Arizona.

The double drowning happened at Topock Gorge on Sunday, August 3, Mohave County Sheriffs Office officials said.

Investigators said Mukkaala, Gankidi, and three other swimmers had rented a pontoon boat.

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After the group left the pontoon boat on a beach, they entered the Colorado River to swim and cool off from the sun. Three of them slipped underwater and began to struggle. One of the occupants was able to get back to the shallow area, however Gankidi and Mukkaala did not resurface, MCSO wrote.

Topock Gorge (File photo courtesy Mohave County Sheriffs Office)

A 911 caller said they were flagged down by another boater who said victims were drowning near Topock Gorge, MCSO said.

Deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department arrived first on scene and deployed an underwater diver.

The two victims had been underwater for approximately 20 minutes when divers arrived on scene, MCSO wrote. Mukkaala and Gankidi were found 12 feet below the rivers surface and divers pulled them out of the water.

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Authorities ID boy, man who drowned in Russian River

The victims were pronounced deceased at Colorado River Medical Center.

Venkata Srinivas Mukkaala (Photo courtesy GoFundMe)

A GoFundMe page created by the Milpitas mans family states that Mukkaala moved to the United States with hopes of building a better future, working tirelessly to support his family back home. His generosity, warmth, and selflessness will always be remembered by his friends, family, and community.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
The Brief

Isiah Jackson is accused of fleeing police and running over an officer's leg.

The incident in question happened near 35th and Townsend in Milwaukee on Aug. 8.

The officer suffered multiple injuries.

MILWAUKEE - A 27-year-old Milwaukee man is accused of fleeing police and running over an officer's leg before being taken into custody. The accused is Isiah Jackson  and he faces the following criminal counts:

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First-degree recklessly endangering safety

Obstructing an officer causing a soft tissue injury to officer

Operating a motor vehicle to flee or in an attempt to elude an officer

Carrying a concealed weapon

Robbery suspect sought

What we know

According to the criminal complaint, Milwaukee police received a call on Friday, Aug. 8, from Brookfield police. Brookfield requested assistance in apprehending Jackson for a robbery offense that happened in Brookfield. Authorities gave Milwaukee police information about the vehicle Jackson was known to drive. Milwaukee police later located the vehicle in question at a gas station near 35th and Townsend.

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When officers arrived at the Milwaukee gas station, they found Jackson outside the vehicle. When an officer approached the vehicle, the complaint says Jackson got inside his vehicle and was "revving" his engine. When officers attempted to remove Jackson from the vehicle, "the defendant then shifted his vehicle into reverse. (An officer) heard the tires squeal and observed the defendant's vehicle moving backward as he was 'standing on the side of the open vehicle door,'" the complaint says. The officer was dragged by the defendant's door and "feared for his life, because he could not get out from behind the door," the complaint says.

According to the criminal complaint, the officer fell free from the defendant's vehicle and was lying on the ground. That was when the "defendant's vehicle rolled over his left leg," the complaint says. The defendant then drove off from the gas station at a high rate of speed. Police immediately began to chase Jackson and his vehicle. The complaint indicates Jackson ditched his vehicle in an alley, and ran through yards. Police eventually caught and arrested him.

The officer that had been run over by the vehicle suffered multiple injuries, including road rash to his arms and legs.

When police searched the defendant's vehicle, they "found a black Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 380 firearm on the front driver's side floorboard," the complaint says.

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When police spoke with Jackson the next day, the "defendant told (a detective) he fled from the officers because he had a gun in the vehicle and was scared," the complaint says.

What's next

Jackson made his initial appearance in Milwaukee County Court on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Cash bond was set at $30,000.

Jackson is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on Aug. 18.

The Source

The information in this post was provided by Wisconsin Circuit Court Access as well as the criminal complaint associated with this case.




In the four months since the Milwaukee Police Department announced its hopes to acquire facial recognition technology, it's been met with almost uniform pushback.

The public and activists pushed back at a debut public hearing before the city's Fire and Police Commission in April. The next month, two-thirds of the Common Council signed a letter in opposition. By July, the city's Equal Rights Commission followed suit, passing a resolution against it.

Despite this, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman told the Journal Sentinel editorial board he was emphatically still in support of it. He called concerns over its misuse "speculative" and cited instances of the police's usage of it through surrounding departments as evidence of its effectiveness.

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"What's speculative is 'will it be abused?'" Norman said. "But what's known is sexual assaults are out there in our community. Homicides out there in our community. Robberies out there in our community. I don't know how many examples we have to show to our public in regards to, what is your level of tolerance?"

The city's top cop said the key to its use is establishing rules around its use. At public meetings where the technology has been discussed, officials have said they would not use it solely to make an arrest and that it would only be used for violent crime.

"We're not talking about facial recognition to go after somebody who stole a bike," he said. "We're talking about real, serious, tangible crime."

Consistently, the department has framed it as a neutral tool and showed how its been used to assist in solving crimes in the past.

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"It is only a tool. The disparity comes from the misuse of the technology," said Heather Hough, the department's chief of staff, at a previous meeting on the technology.

But since its announcement, opposition to the technology has persisted.

Concerns from activists, residents and others range from fears of access by the Trump administration for immigration enforcement; studies showing bias in technology; and infringement on civil liberties. Some have noted that cities like Madison have banned facial recognition's use entirely.

Many have also cited concerns with the department's proposal for acquiring it: trading 2.5 million mugshots for free access to licenses from the company Biometrica.

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Some of those opposed are calling for creating a public body called citizen control over police surveillance, or CCOPS for short.

Facial recognition has long been controversial as well, with cities like Detroit facing legal action over its usage.

"We are already seeing how surveillance technology is being weaponized in real time," said an April statement from the ACLU of Wisconsin, which has opposed the department acquiring the technology. "While we trust that our local leaders and police officers may have good intentions, history reminds us how quickly larger systems can override those intentions."

Norman welcomes the feedback, he said, but takes issue with those who may default to being opposed.

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"Tell that to the next victim then," he said. "They're going to have to be able to give an explanation of why, when we have the ability to interrupt, impact violent crime."

"If there is a tool that we can use to interrupt so that my daughter who lives in this city drives a car, my wife who lives in this city and drives a car, doesn't have to be the second victim, I absolutely unapologetically will use it," Norman added.

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: Milwaukee police chief still wants facial recognition technology, despite opposition
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Panama City police are still sorting out the details of a traffic crash that damaged a downtown business.

It happened around 3:30 p.m., about the same time as some heavy rain swept through the area.

According to Panama City police, a minivan turned right off of 14th Street onto Harrison Avenue. The driver appears to have jumped the curb and sidewalk and plowed into the side of McLeods Glass Company.

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Its unclear if another vehicle forced him off the road or if the weather played a role.

Fortunately, no one was hurt, and the business will be replacing a lot of its own windows.

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The Brief

Authorities say a Minneapolis park police officer was injured Tuesday after a struggle with a sexual assault suspect at Mueller Park.

Officers were called on a report that an adult male suspect was inappropriately touching children.

There was a struggle between the officer and the suspect during an attempted arrest, which resulted in the officer's gun being fired while it was still in its holster.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Authorities say a Minneapolis park police officer was injured on Tuesday after a struggle with a suspect wanted on suspicion of a sexual assault.

Suspect fights with police

What we know

Minneapolis park police say they responded at 1:15 p.m. to Mueller Park on a report that a male suspect was inappropriately touching children. When the first officer arrived, he located the suspect in an alley behind the park in the 2400 block between Bryant and Colfax avenues.

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While trying to take the suspect into custody, the suspect immediately fought the arrest, according to police.

Authorities say at some point the officers gun fired while it was still in its holster, likely in a struggle between the two.

Officer, suspect hospitalized

The backstory

Authorities say the officer, who has been with the Minneapolis Park Police Department for about five years and has more than 30 years in law enforcement, was hospitalized with a minor injury to his lower arm. Its not clear if that was related to the shot fired.

The suspect was not injured, but was taken to a hospital for evaluation before being booked into the Hennepin County Jail.

What they're saying

"I heard a pop and looked out my window and saw a car back into my car, and then I saw a bunch of cops running down the alley," neighbor Maia Aarsheim told FOX 9. "I asked the police: did someone get shot to confirm what I thought I heard. He said yes."

What's next

Authorities say the investigation is active and ongoing.
A regional electric provider in Minnesota is planning a 200-megawatt wind project in two North Dakota counties.

Minnesota Power, the utility division of Duluth-based energy company Allete, said in a news release that construction of the 45-turbine Longspur Wind project is expected to begin in 2026, contingent on regulatory approvals in North Dakota and Minnesota.

The project is planned for North Dakota's Morton and Mercer counties, near Minnesota Powers Bison Wind Energy Center. It will use an existing 465-mile transmission line to move power from North Dakota to northern Minnesota.

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Related: How the 'Big Beautiful Bill' will affect household energy costs in South Dakota

Minnesota Power estimates that the project will become operational in late 2027, which means it would be eligible for soon-to-expire federal tax credits.

During construction, the project is expected to create hundreds of union jobs, the news release says, and once it's operational, it will contribute millions of dollars in tax revenue to local schools, infrastructure projects and other community services.

In 2020, Minnesota Power became the first electric utility in Minnesota to deliver 50% renewable energy to customers, the news release says. The addition of 200 megawatts of wind energy will help meet its goal of delivering 80% renewable energy by 2030.

How much wind energy is produced in Minnesota and North Dakota?

In North Dakota, wind energy makes up nearly 35% of the electric grid mix, with 3,665 megawatts of installed capacity, according to the Energy Information Administration.

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Similarly, wind energy makes up about 25% of the electric grid mix in Minnesota, with 4,184 megawatts of installed capacity, plus another 340 megawatts under construction.

What states have the most wind turbines?

Texas has the most wind turbines of any state, with more active wind turbines than the next three top states combined. Here's how Minnesota and North Dakota compare, according to Choose Energy, an energy broker.

Texas: 19,415 Iowa: 6,472 Oklahoma: 5,597 California: 5,510 Kansas: 4,415 Illinois: 3,837 Colorado: 2,908 Minnesota: 2,736 North Dakota: 2,169 Oregon: 2,173

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Minnesota Power announces plans for wind project in North Dakota
Aug. 12By Anita Li, Minnesota Public Radio News

Minnesotans who applied for a Real ID before the May 7 deadline may be just receiving their identification cards in the mail now. Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services told MPR News last week that they have finally finished processing all Real ID applications submitted before May.

DVS director Pong Xiong said that in the past few years, the department had done community outreach to inform Minnesotans about the implementation of Real IDs.

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"There really wasn't a lot of rush or any sort of urgency that we were sensing from customers as we were having conversations with them," Xiong said.

Then in March, DVS received double the amount of normal applications. In April, it was three times the typical number.

"The increase on its own was not surprising, but the actual numbers that we saw were a little bit more than what we were expecting," Xiong said.

Due to the high volume of applications, the current estimated wait time for any new Real ID applications will be 60 to 90 days.

Former President George W. Bush signed the Real ID Act into law in 2005, following 9/11. Its goal was to standardize the security requirements to issue identification like driver's licenses or identification cards. However, enforcement has been delayed for almost two decades due to a lack of funding, state opposition and the COVID-19 pandemic.

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After many extensions, the Department of Homeland Security announced that May 7 would be the Real ID full enforcement date. After May 7, TSA would no longer accept driver's licenses or state-issued IDs that were not Real ID-compliant as a form of identification for adults at airports and federal buildings. Minors do not need IDs to fly domestically.

According to the TSA website, those traveling without a Real ID or other accepted form of ID may be asked to complete an identity verification process or be subject to additional screening.

TSA has not specified what the additional screening might entail. However, flyers in the U.S. have written on social media posts that they have been able to fly domestically with a drivers license that is not Real ID compliant. Many said that they had to go through some quick additional screening, like swabbing their hands for explosives or getting patted down.

In some other states with population sizes similar to Minnesota, residents are not experiencing the same delays in receiving their Real IDs. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, Real IDs are delivered within seven business days. In Missouri, it's seven to 15 days, according to Missouri Department of Revenue spokesperson JoDonn Chaney.

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Some states with the highest Real ID compliance rates, like Colorado and Maryland, have long defaulted to encouraging anyone applying for or renewing a driver's license to get a Real ID. This means that many residents have been switching over to Real IDs for years. In Minnesota, residents are asked to choose which kind of ID they would like  making it easier to opt out of the program.

That's also the case in Missouri, where around 50 percent of residents have a Real ID as of this month, Chaney said. However, the state is also not currently experiencing a delay in processing Real ID applications. As of Aug. 1, DVS reports that 45 percent of Minnesotans have a Real ID.

DVS is still encouraging Minnesotans to apply.

In a written statement to MPR News, DVS spokesperson Erin Johnson said, "We encourage anyone who wants a REAL ID to apply for one ... If you don't have an urgent need for a REAL ID, we encourage applying when it works best for you."

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Xiong said there are ways to simplify the application process.

"We strongly encourage folks to use the pre-verification process, because ... they can take the documents that they will plan to use for their application, submit them in advance to us, we will validate them in advance," he said.

He also suggested that for those who cannot get a Real ID due to issues with paperwork, they can explore other forms of identification. For example, TSA accepts passports, permanent resident cards, photo IDs issued by federally recognized Tribal Nations, Veteran Health Identification Cards, and U.S. Department of Defense IDs including military IDs.
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Midland Independent School Board met Tuesday night to discuss changing the name of Midland Legacy back to Midland Lee; the measure passed in a 4-3 vote.

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In 2020, the district voted to shed the Confederate moniker and rebrand as part of a nationwide push to distance public places from the Confederacy. The school kept the Rebel mascot and original school colors of maroon and white.

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Midland ISD Vice President Josh Guinn, who was elected to his seat in 2024, led the push to reclaim the Lee name. In a July 4 statement he said the name honors the patriotic legacy that binds us and called it a symbol of shared pride.

Advocates for the switch said that reverting to the schools original name was not a nod to the countrys Confederate history or slavery or racism, but was instead about retaining pride in the schools 60+ year history.

Im a third generation alumniover the years, Midland LeeMidland Lee, not Robert E Lee, was one of the most well branded schools in the state of Texas, said Carie McNeal.

However, those against the switch said this of the change during a heated school board meeting, Why would you insist, why would you fight with your words and your good name for a name that you know causes pain?

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Legacy will re-brand as Lee beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. Midland Legacy Freshman High School will also, once again, become Midland Lee Freshman.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
The Brief

Chicago police are looking for 1-year-old Paradise Johnson, who has been missing since June 27 from the 5600 block of South Marshfield Avenue.

She may be with her mother, Semaj Smith, in an unknown vehicle and could be in need of medical attention.

Johnson has brown eyes, black hair and weighs between 30 and 40 pounds; anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Area One Special Victims Unit at 312-747-8380.

CHICAGO - UPDATE: Paradise Johnson has been found, police say.

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Chicago police are searching for a 1-year-old girl who has been missing since late June and may be with her mother on the citys South Side.

What we know

Paradise Johnson was last seen June 27 in the 5600 block of South Marshfield Avenue, according to police.

Authorities believe she may be with her mother, Semaj Smith, in an unknown vehicle.

Pictured is Paradise Johnson. (Chicago PD)

Johnson has brown eyes, black hair and weighs between 30 and 40 pounds. Police said she may need medical attention.

What you can do

Anyone with more information on Johnson's whereabouts is urged to call 911 or Area One SVU at 312-747-8380.
Spanish authorities have located a missing American hiker's body and suspect he fell down a mountain, according to local media.

Guilford Cole Henderson fell around 650 feet down a mountain in a remote area in Spain while hiking on the Ordesa y Monte Pardido National Park in the Pyrenees, local newspapers El Espaniol and El Diario De Huesca reported. The area is along the borders of France and Spain.

Authorities said his body was found on Friday.

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Henderson was supposed to return home to the Netherlands on July 12, which caused the Spanish Civil Guard to launch a rescue effort.

NBC News reported Henderson had parked his car in Torla, which is near the area he went hiking.

Missing Florida Man Who Wandered Away At Popular New England Tourist Destination Found Dead

Read On The Fox News App

Henderson's body was found in a "difficult-to-access area on the north face of Monte Perdido, in the municipality of Bielsa, after a fall of about 200 meters," according to the report.

The officials added that Henderson "showed no signs compatible with life."

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Woman Dies After Falling At Least 75 Feet While Hiking In North Carolina

According to Henderson's LinkedIn, he graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and was working in the Netherlands as an engineer.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Huesca, Aragon, Spain, Pyrenees mountains. Karst limestone peaks within Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, Spanish Pyrenees.

Authorities in Spain used search dogs and drones to locate Henderson.





Original article source: Missing American hiker found dead in remote mountains over a month after disappearing: Reports
NEED TO KNOW

The body of a missing 15-year-old boy was found in an aqueduct in California on Aug. 8

Three days earlier, the boy and his father were involved in a fatal crash that sent their SUV into the waterway

A GoFundMe has been created to support the man's surviving wife and son

The body of a missing 15-year-old boy was found in an aqueduct in California three days after he was involved in a crash that also killed his father.

In the early hours of Friday, Aug. 8, a family member found Aaron Ramirez's body about two miles south of the site of the crash near Patterson, Fox affiliate KTXL and ABC affiliate KXTV reported.

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Three days earlier, the 15-year-old boy and dad Raul Ramirez were traveling on Interstate 5 when their SUV went off the road and into the aqueduct, according to the outlets.

The vehicle, which was traveling north in the fast lane, according to police, made an unsafe turn into the slow lane before exiting the roadway and going down a steep embankment early in the morning on Tuesday, Aug. 5, the outlets reported.

The SUV traveled about 1,000 feet before it collided into two barbed-wire fences and entered the aqueduct, KXTV reported.

A crew later pulled the SUV from the waterway and found Raul's body inside, according to KXTV and The Modesto Bee. However, his son was nowhere to be found.

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https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

The pair had been driving to pick up a car when the incident occurred, according to KXTV, which reported that their family believes Raul had a heart attack while he was behind the wheel.

For days, loved ones and first responders searched for the missing teen. Finally, at 7:06 a.m. on Aug. 8, the California Highway Patrol learned that Aarons body had been found in the aqueduct during a scheduled search of the waterway, according to The Modesto Bee. A local fire department pulled the teens body from the water.

The California Highway Patrol and the Stanislaus County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs requests for comment.

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In an interview with ABC affiliate KFSN, Angel Alvarez remembered his cousin as having a passion for learning and understanding "how everything worked."

He was "incredibly talented," added Alvarez.

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.

Go Fund Me Raul and Aaron Ramirez. Raul and Aaron Ramirez.

A GoFundMe has also been set up on behalf of Rauls wife Elvia and their surviving son Isaac.

This heartbreaking event has left Elvia and Isaac facing a future without two of the most important people in their lives, wrote the organizer. "As her family, we have come together to create this fundraiser to help ease these burdens so Elvia can focus on healing and supporting Isaac."

As of Wednesday, Aug. 13, the GoFundMe has raised nearly $15,000.



Read the original article on People
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) announced a $16 million partnership between the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) and Canopy Childrens Solutions to deploy Canopy Anywhere in order to promote youth mental wellness.

The governor said the state will provide a first-of-its-kind mental wellness approach designed for students in 6-12 that identifies their needs in real time.

HUD approves Mississippis nearly $135M storm recovery plan

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Canopy Anywhere can be accessed via devices already provided to students in schools. The program provides:

Evidence-based hope curriculum that strengthens emotional wellness and goal-setting

Self-guided digital tools and weekly wellness lessons

Tech-enabled care navigation that connects students and caregivers to real-time support

Resource navigation for families

Clinical screening and assessments when deeper support is needed

Mississippi has momentum in the classroom, and this new partnership will help keep it that way, said Reeves. Our kids deserve the very best education we can give them. Emotional and mental health play a major role in students academic success, and thats why this initiative is so important.

Canopy Anywhere was developed to meet the needs in childrens mental health. Nationwide, the percentage of adolescents reporting at least one major depressive episode in the past year increased nearly 90%, with three million having serious thoughts of suicide. About one in three high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

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Canopy Anywhere was initially piloted in select schools of the Madison County School District. In 2024, 143 of the 628 students who participated in the pilot were identified with immediate mental health needs and connected to in-person support, officials said.

Sen. Wicker, FCC commissioner talk rural connectivity

According to the governor, the project supports 29 public school districts in low-and-moderate income districts, with funding provided by the CDBG-CV Program administered by the State of Mississippi and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The school districts are:

Biloxi Public School District

Claiborne County School District

Clarksdale Municipal School District

Coahoma County School District

Corinth School District

East Tallahatchie Consolidated School District

Greenville Public School District

Greenwood-Leflore Consolidated School District

Gulfport School District

Hattiesburg Public School District

Holmes Consolidated School District

Humphreys County School District

Jackson Public School District

McComb School District

Meridian Public School District

Natchez-Adams School District

North Bolivar Consolidated School District

North Panola School District

North Tippah School District

Quitman County School District

South Delta School District

Starkville-Oktibbeha Consolidated School District

Sunflower County Consolidated School District

Tunica County School District

West Bolivar Consolidated School District

West Tallahatchie School District

Wilkinson County School District

Winona-Montgomery Consolidated District

Yazoo City Municipal School District

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Mississippi murder suspect was taken into custody Wednesday in Memphis after U.S. Marshals say he tried to hide under a bed to avoid arrest.

The U.S. Marshals Service says 31-year-old Malcolm Kohn was wanted in Leflore County, Mississippi, in connection with the shooting death of Joshua Brewer earlier this month.

Malcolm Kohn, Courtesy of U.S. Marshals

Investigators say Brewer was shot on August 4 in front of a business in Greenwood, Mississippi. He was rushed to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.

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The following day, Leflore County authorities issued a murder warrant for Kohn, and the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force took over the search. Information from the task force led investigators to believe Kohn was in Memphis.

On August 13, members of the U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force and Memphis Police Department Fugitive Apprehension Team went to a home in the 900 block of Greer Street.

According to Marshals, Kohn was found hiding under a bed and refused to surrender. A Marshals K-9 was deployed, prompting Kohn to give himself up.

He was booked into the Shelby County Jail and is awaiting extradition back to Mississippi.

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(KODE & KSN)  With all eyes on Texas and efforts to re-draw the states congressional lines, Missouri lawmakers say there is a chance we could see the same debate in the Show-Me State.

The last time Missouri took up the issue of redistricting was in 2022 following the 2020 census. The legislature is mandated by law to do so every ten years but does have the power to re-draw the lines at any time.

In 2022, an effort was made to re-draw those congressional lines, potentially eliminating flipping a seat from Democrat control to Republican control. Republicans currently control six of the states eight congressional seats. State Representative Bob Bromley believes de-districting has to be done to respond to efforts in other states.

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I think Missouri is a prime candidate to look at this, and if we can go ahead and do this, I think it just counters what the other side of the aisle is doing anyway, said Rep. Bromley.

It has to be done at least every ten years, it was last done in 2022. At that time, I called for a map that I felt would be more reflective of the representation that we should have in Missouri. It probably would have sent seven Republicans to Washington, D.C. said State Representative Dirk Deaton.

If a special session is called, lawmakers believe itll take place around September 10th, when they are already scheduled to be Jefferson City for the annual veto session.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
ST. LOUIS  It was announced Wednesday that memorabilia of the world-renowned and St. Louis native Josephine Baker will be preserved right in her home city.

According to officials, collections of artifacts will soon become the steward of an extraordinary private collection due to St. Louis philanthropistmost known for saving The Fabulous Fox in the 1980sMary Strauss charitable bequest.

(Photo provided by the Missouri Historical Society)

Josephine Baker was born and raised during her childhood in St. Louis in the early 1900s. Not only was she the highest-paid entertainer at one point in Europe, but she became a vital piece to uncovering the secrets of Nazi Germany during World War II. Notes and hidden documents led to her recognition with the Croix de Guerre (War Cross) and the Legion of Honour with the rosette of the Resistance, which are considered to be the two highest military honors in France.

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Soon, the public will be able to see the memorabilia that embodied her life. Some items include a performance costume, plywood theater cutout from one of her 1930s films, a portrait of Baker in her prime, and more, according to the Missouri Historical Society.

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Josephine Baker was an extraordinary artist and human being, Mary Strauss said. Its been one of my lifes great joys to amass and care for this collection. I feel so fortunate to have items that capture her at her zenith  programs, posters, photographs, a costume, and Bakerfix items to name but a few  each one reflecting a different side of her brilliance. Im thrilled that theyll one day belong to the people of St. Louis.

(Photo provided by the Missouri Historical Society)

Parts of the collections were previously at Frances Pantheon in 2021 honoring Bakers induction as well as in the St. Louis Sound exhibit in the Missouri History Museum in 2023.

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We are deeply honored that Mary Strauss chose the Missouri Historical Society to protect, preserve, and share this remarkable collection, President and CEO of the Missouri Historical Society, Jody Sowell, said. This gift reflects exactly what we strive to do at the Missouri Historical Society: preserve St. Louis unique history and connect it to broader national and global narratives. Josephine Bakers story is a powerful example of how someone from St. Louis helped shape the world.

Artifacts will be professionally preserved and added into future exhibits, research, and educational programming, including a major exhibit Mill Creek: Black Metropolis which is set to open in November to focus on Bakers original neighborhood that was erased by urban renewal, according to the release. Additionally, stories and collections will be featured in a 2027 gallery as well as a temporary show on Baker in 2028.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Metro Nashville Public Schools has agreed to update its policies and procedures and pay $1,000 to the parents of a diabetic student who said the district violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The child, who was a student at Ross Early Learning Center during the 2023-24 school year and much of the 2024-25 school year, has type 1 diabetes and uses a continuous glucose monitor, according to an Aug. 12 news release from the Middle Tennessee District of the U.S. Attorney's Office. The monitor, which is typically attached to a person's arm, tracks levels in real time and sends alerts to a wireless device like a tablet or smartphone when glucose levels become dangerously high or low.

In their complaint, the parents said they requested that school staff or the school nurse monitor the child's glucose levels and provided a wireless device for them to use. However, the parents were told that the school nurse was only on campus in the morning and that school staff were not able to monitor levels after the nurse left. Additionally, the school later told the parents that it could not use the provided wireless device to communicate with them about the child's glucose levels, but that it needed to use phone calls or password-protected emails instead.

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That prompted the parents to remove the child from the school for around a month. They later sent the child back to school, but only for a half-day in the mornings while the nurse was on campus.

"At different times, the child had experienced dangerously low or high blood glucose levels, resulting in adverse physical effects and requiring the parents' prompt response by either visiting or calling the school to ensure their child received the requisite care," the release stated.

As part of the federal settlement, the school and district agreed to:

Update their rules and procedures to allow children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes to use continous glucose monitors, if prescribed

Purchase or use existing district equipment to monitor blood glucose alerts

Provide appropriate staff with a cell phone or other device at the school where the child at the center of the complaint attends, so the family can more efficiently communicate with the school about the glucose monitor

Modify district policies, practices or procedures to ensure school nurses and other appropriate staff members monitor alerts from continous glucose monitors used by children with type 1 diabetes with a dedicated device during the school day and school-sponsored activities.

Pay $1,000 to the parents who filed the complaint

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"Enforcing federal law on behalf of vulnerable children makes our community stronger," Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire said in the Aug. 12 release. "This agreement is a win for MNPS students and parents."

MNPS spokesperson Sean Braisted said the district takes the health and safety of its students seriously and appreciates the opportunity to strengthen its policies and training around glucose monitoring for children with type 1 diabetes.

"When the issue was brought to our attention, we cooperated fully with the U.S. Attorneys Office to resolve the matter quickly and voluntarily," Braisted said in an emailed statement to The Tennessean on Aug. 12. "The resolution allowed us to clarify procedures, enhance staff training, and ensure that our practices align with the needs of students and families. Ultimately, this was a specific situation involving one student, and it did not reflect a broader systemic issue in our schools."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville schools settle complaint over disability protections
JOPLIN, Mo.  State leaders have decided to shut down several Missouri schools for the severely disabled, including one in Joplin.

The State Board of Education is closing College View State School, which is located in the northeast part of town. The closure will affect the Joplin building and five others, which are facing staff and facility challenges.

Six more schools had already been temporarily closed because of staffing issues.

Those will also close permanently. All 12 schools will shut down by the end of the 2025-26 school year.

Permanently closing these 12 locations will improve services provided to students with severe disabilities and their families. This timeline provides opportunity for our educators and families to determine best outcomes for their student. State Education Commissioner, Dr. Karla Eslinger

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Grand Rapids residents may soon be seeing more drones in the sky, but these ones would be used to study parking.

Mobile GR, the citys transportation department, spoke at a public hearing during the Grand Rapids City Commission meeting Tuesday about its proposal.

Heres how it works: Mobile GR is partnering with OHM Advisors to fly the drones 300 to 400 feet in the sky, taking phots of cars parked on street or in ground lots downtown. The study would take place over a 3-week time period.

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Giant flying antenna gathers underground data in Kalamazoo

We will be collecting data in the morning, afternoon, early evening and around nighttime, Maxwell Dillivan with Mobile GR told News 8.

From there, Mobile GR will work with a company named Quantifly to collect the data and analyze it. Dillivan said that no personal identifiable information would be collected, only the color and location of the car.

The drones will be capturing no identifiable information such as license plates, bumper stickers, vehicle identification number. It is certainly going to be recognizing the shape of the car the color of it as opposed to manual accounts, which are much more timely and require the need to take license plate numbers, Dillivan said.

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The drone element of plan costs roughly $30,000. The entire parking initiative costs roughly $185,000.

After the data is collected, it will be analyzed to understand if there are better ways to utilize parking spaces or potentially find the need for more parking spaces.

But the idea of drones flying around has left some people uneasy. Hal Froot came to the Tuesday hearing because he did not support the proposal in its entirety.

The only issue I have with that is if you have a roof rack on the top of your car, your car is identifiable by that rack. So whatever is on top of your car, whatever you are carrying, makes your car identifiable, he said.

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Corewell Health Monroe North parking lot shuffle still a no-go

Froot said he believed there to be better ways to study and promote parking downtown.

If you want to fully utilize the surface lots you need signage telling people where the surface lots are, Froot said. If the lot is empty now, it is going to be empty later because people cant find it.

Another Grand Rapids resident, Synia Gant-Jordan, said she thinks it is an invasion of privacy.

Its a threat. Its very intimidating when you think about the potential damage that drones can do to people and people are fearful, she said.

Vanessa Eppes agreed.

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Its taking away our privacy and living and doing and going, especially when you talk about all of this just to develop a parking spot, really? she said.

The proposal will be brought up again for a potential vote at the next full city commission meeting.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.




NEED TO KNOW

A woman in Britain recently welcomed her second child after having her stomach and part of her liver removed while undergoing treatment for cancer

Erica, 35, was first diagnosed at the age of 18, but she was diagnosed a second time after nearly a decade in remission

She has gone on to become a mom of two, including the newest addition to her family  a baby girl





A British mother welcomed her second baby after recovering from stomach cancer twice.

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Erica, now 35, was initially diagnosed with cancer at age 18 when she was in the middle of taking exams at school.

The mom of two recalled experiencing symptoms including "severe and reoccurring [anemia] before her diagnosis," as well as "extreme tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath," per a news release shared by The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, where she was treated.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

"It was a shock and pretty scary to be told I had cancer at 18 years old, you never think itll happen to you. Im so glad I trusted my gut  literally  and went to my doctor when I was concerned," Erica  who recently welcomed a daughter  shared.

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The new addition to her family joins her firstborn son.

Per the Cleveland Clinic, "With stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, cancer cells usually begin in the inner lining of your stomach."

"They then grow deeper into your stomach walls as the cancer develops," the organization explained.

Courtesy The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust Erica with her mom Heather Erica with her mom Heather

After her initial diagnosis as a teenager, Erica underwent surgery to remove part of her stomach before going on to complete her school exams and heading to university, the release stated.

However, nine years later, Erica's cancer returned, leading her to have the rest of her stomach removed, as well as a section of her liver.

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Erica's mom, Heather, spoke out about the moment she heard her daughter's cancer had returned, sharing, My world came crashing down. But my daughters resilience is incredible and totally inspiring. She went through multiple surgeries, followed by radiotherapy, and stayed so strong.

Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty A photo of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool, U.K. A photo of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool, U.K.

Erica is now in remission after undergoing further treatments over the last decade, the hospital said.

I hope to be an example for people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer. Its not the end of your life; its just a chapter in it. I feel very lucky to be here today with my two beautiful children and family around me," she said.

Erica's mom, Heather, now volunteers at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre on the Wirral and in Liverpool, insisting she wants to be there for patients who are going through similar situations.

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.

Heather, who pushes the tea trolley round the facility and chats with patients, told the hospital, Erica received life-saving treatment and the most wonderful care at Clatterbridge, and 18 years on, continues to be monitored and treated by the amazing staff there."

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"The least I can do is give a little bit back by volunteering. Theres nothing better than hearing the bell being rung by patients celebrating the end of their cancer treatment," she added, per the release.



Read the original article on People
The Brief

The mother of a DeKalb County police officer gunned down in the shooting said her daughter-in-law told her about the officer dying.

She said she didn't believe it at first but then went into shock.

Now, she's remembering him for his courage and compassion.

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - The mother of a DeKalb County police officer gunned down in the shooting at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta said she is trying to cope with losing her son.

David Rose dies during CDC shooting

The backstory

Officer David Rose died Friday after being shot while responding to an active shooter who had opened fire from a CVS store onto the CDC headquarters.

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Rose had been on the force only a few months when the gunman shot and killed him.

A large memorial now stands outside the CDC, near where Officer Rose died in the line of duty while trying to protect people. Another memorial sits outside the DeKalb County Police Department headquarters in Tucker.

RELATED: CDC Atlanta shooting: Memorials continue to grow for Officer Rose

David Rose's mother on losing him

What they're saying

Rose's family says service to others is a value they hold above all else.

Deveane Atkinson-Burnett, Roses mother, is trying to stay strong as she processes her loss.

"Its been a lot, just taking it one day at a time," she said. I'm trying to cope. Its up and down, up and down."

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Atkinson-Burnett said her daughter-in-law called her about her son. She said she was walking with a friend, about to stop for lunch, when the call came from her sons wife.

"She was saying that he wasnt with us anymore. I said what do you mean, not with us?" she said.

At first, she couldnt believe what she was hearing.

"Hes got to be alive, hes probably just hurt," she thought to herself.

A nurse practitioner, Atkinson-Burnett, once worked at the hospital where her son was taken. She called a friend who still works there.

"He says you need to be here. and I said, my son is deadI knew then, my son is dead."

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The reality hit hard: "Devastating, it was just devastating," she said.

Officer David Rose as a child with his mother, Deveane Atkinson-Burnett. (Deveane Atkinson-Burnett)

Officer Rose was 33, a husband and father of two with a third child on the way. He served as a Marine, completing a tour in Afghanistan.

Remembering his resolve, Atkinson-Burnett said, "He said, Thats where the action is, I'm going."

This past March, Rose graduated at the top of his class from the DeKalb County Police Academy. During his graduation, he addressed his classmates about running towards danger.

Watch Officer David Rose speak at his academy graduation

To his family, he was defined by courage and compassion. As his mother put it, he was "fearless, strong, go-getter and always there for someone in need."

Help Officer Rose's family

What you can do

Multiple GoFundMe accounts have been set up to help Rose's family as they mourn their loss.

Possible CDC shooter motive revealed

Dig deeper

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is still investigating the shooting, and the community continues to gather at the memorial to honor Officer Roses service and sacrifice.

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Joseph Patrick White, 30, is accused of the deadly shooting. Officials said they believe he was motivated by his disdain for the COVID-19 vaccine based on their investigation. He died by suicide after shooting White, according to the GBI.

The Source

Information in this article came from FOX 5's Christopher King speaking with Officer David Rose's mother and past FOX 5 reporting.
HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT)  As local colleges get back to class, the University of Evansville finds itself with a familiar honor.

Money Magazine names UE as one of the best colleges in America for 2025. The publication uses research and advice from the nations top experts on education quality, financing and value to analyze the best performing colleges.

Schools were ranked in quality of education, affordability and outcomes. UE says it works closely with families to ensure UE education is affordable.

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The university was previously named to the list in 2019 and 2023.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
The Brief

State Attorney Monique Worrell filed a petition to block political influence in investigations and clarify what records can be released under grand jury secrecy laws.

She says a 2024 probe by the prior administration broke standard practices.

Her office is adopting policies to ensure investigations are guided by evidence, not politics.

ORLANDO, Fla. - State Attorney Monique Worrell has filed a Petition for Declaratory Judgment seeking to shield her offices investigative processes from political interference and to clarify what information from a prior investigation may legally be released.

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What we know

Worrells office argues the requested records are protected under Floridas grand jury secrecy laws and has asked the court to confirm whether any portion can be disclosed without violating those protections.

The filing comes in response to an internal investigation launched by the previous appointed administration just two days after Worrell was re-elected in November 2024, which was later referred to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for possible grand jury review.

RELATED ARTICLE:DeSantis pushes to end legal battle over suspension of former State Attorney Monique Worrell

What they're saying

"No prosecutors office in this country should allow its investigative processes to be compromised," Worrell said in a statement. "An investigation must be grounded in facts, follow established procedures, and serve the pursuit of justice."

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Worrell claims the investigation against her and her former executive team was conducted outside standard practices and placed unwarranted pressure on staff, undermining prosecutorial decision-making. She said her administration is implementing new policies to ensure criminal and administrative matters are handled separately, follow consistent standards, and are driven solely by evidence and the law.

Since returning to office, Worrell said she has focused on restoring trust, transparency and efficiency and that the petition is part of broader efforts to prevent similar situations in the future.

The Source

The information in this article comes from the office of State Attorney Monique Worrell, the Ninth Judicial Circuit serving Orange and Osceola County.
Sen. Declan OScanlon is among the Republicans who say the proposed labor rules would "wreak havoc on independent contractors." (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

Three Republican lawmakers are seeking to overturn pending regulations regarding independent contractors that have been criticized by business groups, gig workers, and freelancers.

The concurrent resolution proposed by Sen. Declan OScanlon, Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn, and Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger  all Monmouth County Republicans  would invoke a state constitutional provision requiring regulators to amend or withdraw rules proposals that lawmakers say are out of step with their intent.

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These proposed rules by the DOL directly contradict the Legislatures intent and would wreak havoc on independent contractors who rely on flexibility and autonomy to make a living, OScanlon said in a statement. Were not going to sit back and let unelected bureaucrats and Trenton Democrats make life more expensive and more complicated for thousands of hardworking people.

The Department of Labor is considering regulations that would codify its implementation of the ABC test, a three-part assessment used to determine whether workers are employees entitled to certain payroll tax benefits or independent contractors who do not fund those benefits and are mostly ineligible to receive them. The proposal has received criticism from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

These rules are a direct attack on worker freedom and the ability of New Jerseyans to control their own livelihoods, Flynn said. For many independent contractors  especially parents, caregivers, and those juggling multiple jobs  this flexibility isnt a luxury, its a lifeline.

The ABC tests three prongs measure whether a worker is free from their employers control, whether the work they do is outside an employers regular course or place of business, and whether the worker is independently engaged in business or trade.

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Workers who pass all three prongs are independent contractors, and those who fail any are classed as employees.

State labor officials say the regulations would merely codify practices stemming from statute and case law that labor commissioners have employed for years.

The proposed regulations would add a list of factors courts have considered in employee misclassification cases  like whether an individual is required to work set hours, use specific tools, or wear a particular uniform  to the tests first prong.

They would also add examples to the tests second prong that would make clear ride share and truck drivers are employees by designating the vehicles they drive as their employers regular place of business.

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Critics say they worry the lists non-exhaustive nature  meaning officials can consider factors not listed there  would create uncertainty.

Though ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft maintain they only provide platforms to connect passengers to drivers and that their drivers are independent contractors, the state treats them as employees by allowing them to file for unemployment, family leave, and temporary disability benefits, though program rules mean its somewhat uncommon for them to receive those benefits.

Ride-share companies do not make payments for those benefits on behalf of their drivers, so any payroll benefits those drivers receive are underwritten by other New Jersey workers and employers.

The New Jersey Supreme Court in a 2022 decision suggested the state issue regulations clarifying how it applies the tests second prong.

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A months-long narcotics investigation led to the execution of a search warrant on Monday in Greenville where authorities say drugs, a firearm and distribution materials were recovered.

The Hunt County Sheriffs Office launched an investigation in July into reports that Franklyn Andrew Tatum, 68, was distributing methamphetamine and marijuana from his residence in the 2800 block of Hemphill Street.

On Monday, deputies with the Hunt County Sheriffs Office  assisted by the Greenville Police Department and the Hopkins County Sheriffs Office  executed a search warrant at the residence. During that search, officers recovered methamphetamine, marijuana, a firearm, digital scales and packaging materials commonly associated with the manufacture and distribution of illegal narcotics, according to the sheriffs office.

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In Texas, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute can carry a sentence of up to life in prison, depending on the quantity involved. Possession of marijuana in certain amounts may result in up to two years in state jail. Additional penalties may apply if firearms are found in connection with drug offenses.

No arrests had been officially announced as of Tuesday morning and the investigation is ongoing.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  With just under two weeks remaining until the school season begins, the Sioux City Community School District recently hired over a hundred teachers.

The districts newest team members kicked off their journey with an orientation day. During this event, topics such as ethics, safety, benefits, and energy management were discussed.

Story continues below

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One member of the Sioux City Schools District told KCAU that with the number of new teachers hired, the 2025-26 school year is expected to yield great results.

I think were going to be so successful with the amount of new teachers we have here, said Barb Caskey, the human resources director for the Sioux City Community Schools District. We are putting our buildings and the best place they can be with all of the new teachers, and again, having this orientation today is equipping them with those tools to be successful when they go out into the buildings, so that way they can support the buildings, but the buildings can also support them.

One of the new teachers, a recent graduate of Sioux City Schools, expressed a desire to bring positivity and fun to his classroom.

So Im really excited to get started. Its been prep time, so weve been getting in these last few days, getting rooms set up, and just being a positive reinforcement for these kids, said Andrew Markowsky, the new kindergarten teacher for Bryan Elementary.

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Students in most Sioux City Schools will return to school on August 25.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
The Metropolitan Police says 146 people have now come forward to report a crime in their investigation into former Harrods boss Mohammed Al Fayed.

In a video update sent to victims, Scotland Yard said women and men had reported crimes, and a number of new witnesses had also contacted the force to give evidence.

The Met is currently conducting an investigation into how it handled historical allegations, including sexual assault and rape, perpetrated by Al Fayed - who died in 2023 aged 94.

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It is also looking into whether there may have been others who could face charges for enabling or assisting his behaviour. The force has previously said it was investigating at least five people.

In the update, Detective Inspector Karen Khan said the Met was working with international agencies, including foreign police forces.

She said it was "difficult" to say when the investigation might be concluded because of the sheer number of survivors who had come forward.

She also asked for victims and witnesses to continue to come forward but acknowledged there was a "reluctance" to trust the police by some.

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Last month, the force wrote to alleged victims apologising, saying it was "truly sorry" for the distress they have suffered because Al Fayed will never face justice.

In a further statement on Wednesday, the Met said the way the force "works has moved on immeasurably, and our teams have transformed the way we investigate rape and sexual offences".

"We're working with partners across the criminal justice system to ensure that victim-survivors are at the heart of our response, with a greater focus on suspects and their offending," a spokesperson added.

"We continue to support all victims and we urge anyone with information, whether they were directly affected by Mohamed Al Fayed's actions or aware of others who may have been involved, or committed offences to come forward."

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The latest figure of 146 is more than double the 61 people who the Met said had reported allegations the last time it released a number in October.

Harrods said more than 100 victims of Al Fayed's abuse had entered its compensation scheme in July. Al Fayed owned the luxury department store between 1985 and 2010.

The store started issuing compensation at the end of April and the scheme remains open for new applications until 31 March 2026.

Eligible applicants could receive up to 385,000 in compensation, plus treatment costs, if they agree to be assessed by a consultant psychiatrist, Harrods said in March.

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They are also offered a meeting with a senior Harrods' representative to receive an apology in person or by video, as well as a written apology.

The extent of Al Fayed's predatory behaviour was brought to light by a BBC documentary and podcast, broadcast in September 2024.

Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods heard testimony from more than 20 female ex-Harrods employees who said Al Fayed sexually assaulted or raped them.

Since then, dozens more women have come forward with similar experiences.

Responding to the BBC investigation at the time, Harrods' current owners said they were "utterly appalled" by the allegations and that his victims had been failed - for which the store sincerely apologised.

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It was only after the broadcast that the Met revealed it had been approached by 21 women before Al Fayed's death, who accused him of sexual offences including rape, sexual assault and trafficking. Despite this, he was never charged with any offences.

In October, the Met said 40 new allegations including sexual assault and rape had been made against Al Fayed, covering a period between 1979 and 2013. These allegations were in addition to the 21 it had already received.

Two complaints against the Met Police for its handing of allegations against Al Fayed are being investigated by the force under the direction of the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
EXCLUSIVE: More than 20 Republican attorneys general are demanding that the Trump administration reinstate safety protocols for the abortion drug mifepristone, saying it poses "serious risks to women."

In a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, 22 attorneys general called on Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Food and Drugs Administration head Martin Makary to bring back safeguards for the pills that were scrapped by the Obama and Biden administrations.

"Recent comprehensive studies of the real-world effects of the chemical abortion drug mifepristone report that serious adverse events occur 22 times more often than stated on the drugs label, while the drug is less than half as effective as claimed. These facts directly contradict the drugs primary marketing message of 'safe' and 'effective,'" the letter reads, citing studies published earlier this year by the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPA), a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group.

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The EPPA report claims the pill presents harm to women, causing 1 in 10 patients to experience a "serious adverse event," including hemorrhage, emergency room visits and ectopic pregnancy.

Fda Chief Has 'No Plans' For Abortion Pill Policy Changes But Continues Safety Review

More than 20 Republican attorneys general are demanding that the Trump administration reinstate safety protocols for the abortion drug mifepristone.

The letter, led by Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, comes after Kennedy Jr. asked Makary to review the latest data on mifepristone and its safety.

Read On The Fox News App

"Based on that review, the FDA should consider reinstating safety protocols that it identified as necessary as recently as 2011 in its issuance of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for mifepristone, but which were removed by the Obama and Biden administrations," the letter reads, adding that the drug should be taken off the market if safeguards cannot be put in place.

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"Alternatively, in light of the serious risks to women who are presently being prescribed this drug without crucial safeguards, and in the event the FDA is unable to reinstate the 2011 safety protocols for mifepristone, the FDA should consider withdrawing mifepristone from the market until it completes its review and can decide on a course of action based on objective safety and efficacy criteria," the attorneys general wrote.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., also sent a letter to Kennedy Jr. last month urging him to take immediate action to reinstate safety guardrails on mifepristone following the secretary's commitment to conducting a safety review of the drug.

Makary had previously said that he had no plans to modify policies surrounding mifepristone but that the FDA would act if the data suggested there was a safety issue.

Mifepristone, which is taken with another drug called misoprostol to end an early pregnancy, was first approved by the FDA in 2000 after "a thorough and comprehensive review" found it was safe and effective, according to the agency's website, which noted that periodic reviews since its approval have not identified new safety concerns.

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Last year, the Supreme Court rejected a challenge targeting the drug's availability. The plaintiffs had sought to restrict access to mifepristone across the country, including in Democrat-led states where abortion remains legal. The court did not rule on whether the FDA acted lawfully when it moved during the Obama and Biden administrations to ease the rules for mifepristone's use that had been established during the Clinton administration.

Medication abortions made up more than half of all abortions in the U.S. health care system in 2023, according to a study by the Guttmacher Institute.

Medical Groups Urge Fda, Kennedy To Reexamine Broad Approval Of Abortion Drugs

The letter from 22 attorneys general was led by Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach.

"Currently, a woman can obtain a mifepristone abortion by participating in only one telehealth visit with any approved healthcare provider (not necessarily a physician), ordering the drugs through a mail-order pharmacy, and self-administering them," the attorneys general wrote. "And the prescriber is only required to report an adverse event if he or she becomes aware that the patient has died."

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"The FDAs removal of these crucial safety protocols in 2016 (and in 2023) that only five years before the FDA considered necessary begs the question of whether the removal was motivated by considerations other than the safety of patients  The current FDAs dedication to the health and wellbeing of all Americans is encouraging, as is the much-needed review of mifepristone that Secretary Kennedy has promised," the letter concludes.





Original article source: More than 20 GOP attorneys general call on RFK Jr, FDA to reinstate safeguards for abortion drugs
MEXICO CITY (AP)  More than 8.3 million people in Mexico were pulled out of poverty between 2022 and 2024, according to a report released by Mexico's statistics agency on Wednesday.

It marks a nearly 18% drop in people living in poverty in a country that has long struggled with high levels of economic precarity and unemployment. The number of people living in extreme poverty dropped 23% while those in moderate poverty dropped more than 16%, according to the report by Mexico's National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). Today, one in three Mexicans still live in poverty.

This is a photograph of the country, said Claudia Maldonado, a researcher at INEGI.

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While INEGI took over research of poverty rates from a previous government entity, official and independent researchers say the data is comparable.

Manuel Martinez Espinoza, a researcher at Mexicos National Council of the Humanities, Sciences and Technologies, said the dip can be largely be attributed to two policies championed by former Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

The Mexican populist, who remained highly popular even after he left office last year, built his political movement on heavy support from poorer and rural-dwelling Mexicans with the promise that he would put the poor first and more equally distribute wealth in the Latin American nation.

Martinez Espinoza said that while the decrease in poverty is likely due to a range of factors in an economy as diverse as Mexico's, Lopez Obrador raising Mexico's minimum wage and instituting a roster of social welfare programs appears to have paid off.

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Access to social security, food security and dignified living conditions have all gone up, according to the INEGI report, though gains in other things like access to health services didn't catch up to major losses felt in years past.

Between 2018, the year Lopez Obrador took office, and 2025, Mexico's minimum wage tripled, jumping from 88.40 pesos ($4.75) to 278.80 pesos ($15) a day.

At the same time, Lopez Obrador's government scrapped a host of existing social programs and installed their own, quickly increasing overall social spending to unprecedented heights for senior citizens, unemployed youth, students, farmers and people with disabilities.

The programs have also been criticized as the reforms dramatically shifted who was getting that money, as universal pension benefits also put money in the pockets of Mexicos wealthiest who didnt really need the cash injection.

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Martinez Espinoza noted that the cash transfers may not be a long-term solution to tackle poverty in Mexico, as poverty could jump once again if such programs end.

If people stop receiving (the transfers), they could fall back into poverty because there wasn't enough investment in things other than addressing people's most immediate needs, he said.
Whispers of beauty, sophistication and an impulse to snap photos are not part of a typical segment in overheard restroom chatter.

But behind the doors of the Little America Hotels lobby restroom in Salt Lake City, guests are frequently heard gushing over the restrooms quality, ambiance and even using the space as a backdrop for social media-worthy photos.

We are constantly being tagged (on social media) in real photo shoots taking place in the bathroom, said Madison Kent, the director of marketing and public relations at The Little America Hotel.

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Hotel guests have been known to use the space for professional photos, head shots and even bridal pictures, Kent said. She credits the restrooms ambiance and overall sophistication with drawing droves of visitors to the lobby restroom to pose for photos, making it one of the most photographed spaces in the hotel.

It really just says a lot about the space, a lot about the hotel itself, and a lot about what we want to try and put back out into the community and the city to create that really memorable experience, Kent said.

For several consecutive years, the Salt Lake City hotel has been seeking recognition for its thoughtfully-crafted restroom space by submitting itself as a nominee for Cintas Americas Best Restroom.

The Little America Hotel's restroom in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. The Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City has been named a top nine finalist in Cintas Corporation's 2025 Americas Best Restroom contest. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

In 2023, the restroom made the cut as finalist but was outvoted by a restroom in the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

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Cintas believed The Little America Hotel deserved a second chance at the title  something they rarely provide, explained Christiny Betsch, marketing manager at Cintas.

Now, for the second time, The Little America is a finalist in Cintas 24th annual Americas Best Restroom competition. And Kent believes the hotel boasts a fantastic chance of winning the 2025 crown.

The Little America will compete against eight other restrooms across the country for the title. The Salt Lake City hotel is up against the following rest spaces:

Bear Head Lake State Park in Ely, Minnesota

City of Fruita in Fruita, Colorado

Footprints in Lawrence, Kansas

Moderne Bar in Orlando, Florida

The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York, New York

Rosebrook Lodge in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Tatsu in Dallas, Texas

Tecolote Shores in San Diego, California

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Restrooms across the country are selected based on criteria such as innovation, cleanliness, functionality and design. Cintas sifts through hundreds of nominations every year and relies on interviews, photos, reviews and other research to narrow the finalists down to nine or 10 restrooms.

The Little America Hotel's restroom in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. The Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City has been named a top nine finalist in Cintas Corporation's 2025 Americas Best Restroom contest. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

The prize  a $2,500 voucher for Cintas products and services as well as a Cintas UltraClean service  goes to whichever restroom receives the highest number of votes from the public.

Last year the title went to the Utah-based gas station company, Maverik. Among the nominees this year are rest stop bathrooms, bar restrooms and state park bathrooms.

There is definitely an eclectic group of restrooms that we have every year, Betsch said. Some of them are high-end restrooms ... theres some innovative self cleaning restrooms. We have some that are high on the personal touches and making it an inviting space. So its kind of a little bit of everything. We dont just focus on kind of one type of restroom.

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Against the group of restrooms finalists, The Little Americas space stands out for its exceptional design and memorable guest experience, Betsch explained.

Their iconic pink restroom, its just part of the signature charm of Little America.

Its more than just a restroom

The Little America Hotel's restroom in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. The Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City has been named a top nine finalist in Cintas Corporation's 2025 Americas Best Restroom contest. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News

As with every design choice at The Little America Hotel, each decorative decision made for the pink lobby restroom was intended to leave visitors with a lasting impression, Kent said.

It really is gorgeous, and it is so thoughtfully designed, Kent said. Its more than just a restroom. It really is this refreshing little spot within the property.

The floors of the restroom are wrapped in imported Italian marble, which extends across the countertops and sinks. Each stall stretches from ceiling to floor, providing unique privacy. There is also a crystal chandelier within every individual stall as well as coordinating wallpaper and hand-selected artwork furnishing the walls.

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Also featured in the restroom is an adjoining sitting area with personal vanities. This space is decorated with English wool carpet and French Rouge furnishings.

Getting selected as a finalist for the second time was very special, Kent said. She added, it really just reinforces how we as a business maintain our facilities and its a reflection of our commitment to our guests.

If Little America wins the 2025 title, the hotel will celebrate by honoring the internal staff members responsible for cleaning the restroom and working to maintain its reputation for quality.

This hotel has really become a staple to the city, I know we have a lot of local loyalty, Kent said. We definitely encourage everyone to get online and to vote for us. We want that for the city. We want that for the community. We want to be recognized for all of us as the best in the country.
The Los Angeles Police Department has released footage and more information about officers shooting of an allegedly armed man in South Los Angeles in June.

On June 28, Ismael Hernandez, 35, was walking in the roadway near the intersection of Avalon Boulevard and 42nd Place while armed with a handgun, police said in a news release.

After Hernandez fired his gun twice, Officers Ferdy Cordero and Andrew Villalta opened fire, striking him at least once, police said. Police shared video of the shooting online. (Editors note: Video footage is graphic.)

Ismael Hernandez was shot by LAPD officers on June 28, 2025. (LAPD)

Hernandez was taken to a local hospital in stable condition.

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Another person whom Hernandez allegedly assaulted sustained minor wounds and was treated at the scene.

A blue steel, Rossi .38 Special revolver was recovered at scene and booked as evidence. The cylinder of the revolver contained five spent cartridge cases, police said.

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Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Aug. 13, 2025, alongside lawmakers, National Guard members and state police that multiple West Virginia agencies will participate in ICEs 287(g) program. (West Virginia Office of Gov. Patrick Morrisey | Courtesy photo)

Gov. Patrick Morrisey is ramping up the states participation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), announcing a wide-spread agreement that enlists the National Guard and police officers to expand immigration enforcement operations in West Virginia.

Its one of the most wide-ranging agreements a state has forged with ICE under President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. It allows designated law enforcement officers to interrogate people on their immigration status during routine police duties.

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Morrisey said that unauthorized immigration was linked to the states fentanyl issues. More than 81% of fatal drug overdoses in West Virginia in 2023 involved fentanyl.

West Virginia  which is nearly 1,500 miles away from the U.S. southern border  has effectively become a border state, the governor said.

We had to wrestle with the consequences of seemingly unlimited amounts of fentanyl flooding into our state, Morrisey said Wednesday at a press conference in Parkersburg.

Morrisey has directed the West Virginia National Guard, the West Virginia State Police and the state Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to participate in the federal 287(g) program that enables designated local officers to perform certain immigration functions under ICEs oversight. Local law enforcement can participate in the program, as well.

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ICE has signed similar agreements with hundreds of local and state agencies across the country.

The goal is to get as many of our personnel trained in order to be effective partners with ICE Homeland Security and the Trump administration, Morrisey said.

The National Guard and law enforcement will participate in the task force model of the 287(g) program, the broadest of the programs models that permits law enforcement to enforce immigration authority with ICE oversight during their routine police duties.

The task force agreements with ICE were discontinued in 2012 during the Obama administration after a 2011 Department of Justice investigation found widespread racial profiling and other discrimination against Latinos in an Arizona task force, Stateline reported.

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In West Virginia, participating state police and National Guard members will also have the authority to make warrantless arrests of any undocumented immigrant entering or attempting to unlawfully enter the United States in the officers presence or view or if the officer believes the person to be arrested is in violation of the law and likely to escape.

We are very excited about complete cooperation and collaboration with ICE, said Superintendent of State Police James L. Mitchell. We hope that this sends a message to people throughout West Virginia that if youre illegal, if youre committing crimes that are not welcomed here in this state.

Morrisey said only participating law enforcement personnel who are nominated and trained will have the authority to conduct the delegated immigration officer functions.

The National Guard stands by ready to assist where we can with the ICE mission, said Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, adjutant general of West Virginia. We briefed the governor that we have 175 certified law enforcement officers that will be going through this training to assist ICE where they are needed.

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DCR will also play a role in the program by servicing and executive administrative warrants for undocumented immigrants who currently are in state correctional facilities.

David Kelly, DCR commissioner, said it would reduce the premature release of potentially dangerous individuals into communities. Its about being smart, efficient and proactive, he said.

Around 2% of West Virginias residents are immigrants.

In January, Morrisey signed an executive order directing the state Department of Homeland Security, law enforcement and more to coordinate with ICE and to support Trumps policies on illegal immigration.

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As of Wednesday, the governor said there were 88 undocumented immigrants in state custody. Of that total, 46 are being detained on immigration charges that included failing to appear in court before a deportation judge, Morrisey said.

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SNAP and EBT Accepted here sign. SNAP and Food Stamps provide nutrition benefits to supplement the budgets of disadvantaged families. (Getty Images)

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Tuesday hes inclined to comply with a request from President Donald Trumps administration to supply personal data for state residents who rely on a federal food assistance program.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has asked states to turn over the information, including recipients names, dates of birth, personal addresses and Social Security numbers to comply with a Trump executive order called Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos.

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The request also included records to calculate the amount of SNAP benefits they got over time.

Morrisey said he needs to look further into the federal request for SNAP recipients personal data, but conceptually the state wants to help the Trump administrations purpose.

The goal that they have is to root out fraud, waste and abuse, and to go after undocumented aliens, Morrisey said. And I think that they want to look at a number of the public programs, including SNAP. Im supportive of that.

Obviously you always want to protect the privacy of citizens, but theres a real issue ensuring that were going to have the adequate details to go after fraud, waste and abuse, and to make sure that undocumented aliens and other people are not taking advantage of these benefits unlawfully, he said. So my inclination is to work closely with the Trump administration on that and make sure that were giving them the tools they need to limit bad use of taxpayer money.

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Morriseys comments came in response to a question from West Virginia Watch.

Last week, 22 organizations  including the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy, the ACLU of West Virginia, Facing Hunger Foodbank and the West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition  called on Morrisey to reject with the request, calling it an outrageous act of federal overreach without clear parameters for how the federal government intends to use the personal data.

A coalition of 21 states and Washington D.C. led by Democrat attorneys general in California and New York sued the federal government over privacy concerns with the data request. They asked a judge to stop the government from making the demand or stop it from withholding funding from states that dont comply.

In West Virginia last year, more than 277,000 people got SNAP benefits, according to the Center on Budget and Policy.

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Another mother is facing child abuse charges after police said her eight-year-old tested positive for cocaine. Mercedes Barfoot made her first appearance in court on Tuesday.

Albuquerque mother facing charges after child overdosed will stay in jail

A criminal complaint stated that the boy and two other siblings had been under New Mexico Children, Youth, and Family Department care during the past two years after all three children tested posted for drugs. The state had recently placed the eight-year-old on a trial home visit with his mother.

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The criminal complaint showed that the CYFD worker conducted several scheduled and surprise visits to the home and removed him after the worker found drug paraphernalia. The boy told CYFD he didnt want to be alive anymore, so they took him to the hospital, where police said he tested positive for cocaine.

CYFD sent this statement:

CYFD is glad that MG is safe due to the diligent efforts of the CYFD worker in this case. The timeline outlined in the criminal complaint shows that the CYFD worker conducted several visits, both scheduled and unscheduled, to check on the safety of MG. These steps resulted in the CYFD intervention and removal of MG to ensure the childs safety. Substance misuse and addiction continue to be a major problem in New Mexico and CYFD will continue our steadfast work to protect and support the children and youth who are vulnerable. Jessica Preston, Deputy Director of Communications

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STEPHENS COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)- Since 2023, Courtni Bridges has been engaged in a legal investigation into the alleged sexual assault of her, then-13-year-old daughter. Bridges told KTAB/KRBC that the incident itself has put immense strain on her family, but the reason she decided to come forward was because of the way the case was handled. Stephens County Attorney, Gary Trammel, informed Bridges back in February that the county would not be pursuing the case any further due to several mitigating factors.

He just dismissed the case, and the first reason he had listed was that she had autism. He said that she broke down during her forensics interview, that she became emotional, and that he didnt think shed be willing to testify. I couldnt believe that he wrote that in the letter. I honestly didnt even have to finish the rest of the letter. He had ended it with, if I had any more evidence or anything new come up, that I could reach out to them and we would follow up. But thats not what happened and thats not true, Bridges said.

Trammel told KTAB/KRBC that he feels the case was more than adequately investigated through his own efforts and those of the Stephens County Sheriffs office.

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Multiple times I sat down with the investigator and asked him, okay, go back and do this, go back and talk to this person, go back and try to find thisthe Chief Deputy did a great job; he went above and beyond what is typically done in a normal suit, said Trammel.

Trammel said the lack of evidence and Bridges apparent decision not to request a second forensic interview were the major deciding factors as to whether or not to pursue further.

If there was enough evidence, we would have filed the case I even ran it by one of the Texas Rangers, and it was the consensus from everyone that there just wasnt enough evidence to file this case The fact that she had autism, once again, is just a very minor part of my decision that we could not move forward with this case, Trammel said.

Bridges, however, says this has not been her experience or understanding of the case. Bridges stated that she has had little correspondence with the investigating officials despite their offers to reach out over the past few years. All the uncertainty and trauma, she says, weigh extremely heavily on her daughter.

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I did follow up. They, most days, would ignore my phone calls. I never got phone calls back, I think I talked to Gary Trammel one time in the last two years.It was an absolute nightmare, the last two yearsShe was hospitalized like 6 times across the state in different residential treatment facilities. She missed her entire 8th grade year, said Bridges.

While Trammel has made it clear to KTAB/KRBC that the case could be reopened if more compelling evidence can be presented, Bridges is looking ahead. She says this case is much larger than she or her daughter alone. She now hopes to see some good change come out of this ordeal.

Its not okayAnd I want everyone to know its not okay. I dont want this to happen to anybody else. Its a hard one, and its one I wasnt sure I wanted to move forward with. But if this saves other kids from going through it, then Im gonna do it, Bridges said.

Now, Bridges is continuing the fight for her daughters civil liberties. She has started a petition on Change.org titled Protect Children From Legal Neglect in Texas. At the time of this article, that petition has 1,123 signatures. In addition to those efforts, Bridges is working with the Texas Against Sexual Assault Association, Texas Autism Society, and a Denton Attorney to make legislative change regarding the autism and mental health response training required of police and other authorities that might have to respond to such a situation.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A motorcyclist was killed early Tuesday morning, Aug. 12 when he hit a car in South-Central El Paso, El Paso Police said.

Police say he may have been speeding and may have run a red light.

At about 3 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a crash involving a motorcycle at Alameda and Delta.

1 dead after motorcycle crash in South-Central El Paso

Police arrived they found the motoryclist  identified as 26-year-old Jason Vargas Jr.  dead at the scene.

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The Special Traffic Investigation unit was called to take over the investigation. The initial investigation showed the motorcyclist was traveling eastbound on Alameda when a car made a left turn onto Delta. Vargas hit the car, police said.

Contributing factors may be speeding and running a red light by the motorcyclist, police said.



This is the 37th traffic fatality this year inside the City limits compared to 39 at the same time last year. The Special Traffic Investigations unit continues to investigate the crash.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
MOUNTAIN CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  A proposed Bitcoin mine that would have required a rezoning to open is off the table for now after the Mountain City Board of Mayor and Aldermen failed to approve the rezoning Tuesday night, Mayor Jerry Jordan told News Channel 11.

No one made a motion to approve the second and final reading of an ordinance that would have zoned property just off Highway 421 from B-3 to B-4  a move that would have paved the way for Bitcoin miner CleanSpark to construct a 30 megawatt facility on Rainbow Road. The proposal drew significant public opposition from the time it was announced several months ago.

PREVIOUS: Mountain City mayor says he gets both sides of the Bitcoin argument

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The motion had passed on first reading by a three-to-one vote. Jordan said the turnabout came because people opposed to the proposal had threatened the town with a lawsuit, something he said the town couldnt afford.

Im between a rock and a hard place, so I make the best decision for the town, Jordan said. Last night we took the best decision for the town  we aint going to fight a lawsuit.

Jordan said the primary reason he had supported the proposal was so Mountain City could gain greater tax revenue. Mountain Electric Co-Op, which lost its largest power consumer when Parkdale Mills closed following damage from Hurricane Helene, would have provided up to 30 megawatts of power from a nearby substation.

Mountain Electric CEO Rodney Metcalf previously told News Channel 11 the addition of a major power user could have helped the utilitys bottom line and kept rates lower for consumers.

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Jordan seemed frustrated by the outcome Wednesday morning and said that while the proposal had some community support, people in opposition drowned out those voices.

The way the protestors made it look was that everyone was against it, and that was a total lie, Jordan said, adding that a number of people who spoke in opposition dont live within the city limits. We listened to them, we let them speak, he said.

He believes the residents never gave the facility a chance.

We gave a lot of people the opportunity to go to Norcross, Georgia and look at the facility, Jordan said. If they hadnt went down and looked at and say, Hey, we dont want this, I get it, I can live with that. But I didnt want to take the opportunity.

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CleanSpark could still seek a location outside the Mountain City limits in Johnson County. The county does not have any zoning laws currently, but it has been considering action that could place some restrictions on data centers and cryptocurrency miners.

The process uses huge amounts of electricity and involves large numbers of computers that perform complex calculations, either for the purpose of mining digital currency, verifying crypto transactions or performing work in fields like artificial intelligence. The centers have drawn opposition around the country, often related to the noise produced by the fans used to cool the computers.

Johnson County resident and attorney Bill Hart is part of a group that opposed the ordinance.

They operate 24/7 at a very loud decibel level, Hart said. It ruins the property values and lifestyles of anybody within miles of these facilities. I mean, thats just a fact. Also, this particular site has a protected waterway next to it.

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The group claims there was a lack of transparency from city officials.

So there was not only the substantive reasons to oppose it, but also just the precedent of sort of being rolled over and ignoring their own zoning laws, Hart said. I think it was important that we have laws and that we follow them, regardless of whether youre for or against the Bitcoin mine.

Hart said group members in opposition are also not anti-business.

Theres a lot of movement to bring business into the community, Hart said. But this had only negatives to it. It didnt employ people. It had a lot of environmental concern to it. And, you know, once they got in here, it could just multiply, and it would ruin our way of life.

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Jordan told News Channel 11 that the intent was to help the city and that town leadership will no longer pursue the change.

Looking at what they had in Norcross, I still believe today that it wouldnt be an issue, Jordan said. But a lot of people dont feel that way, and I respect them, I really do. And, so we are just going to move on.

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LEWISBURG, W.Va. (WFXR)- The Mountain Dude, a new brand mascot appearing in Mountain Dew soda advertisements, will be making his way to the State Fair of West Virginia in Lewisburg.

Its a part of Dew Day at the fair this Saturday, August 16.

According to fair officials, The Mountain Dude will meet with fans, take photos, and hand out Mountain Dew samples between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. There will also be brand-inspired games and giveaways.

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WATCH: Adventure within a Days Drive, Pipestem State Park Resort offers outdoors options in the Mountain State

The State Fair of West Virginia, which is already underway, is in its 100th year. Click here for a full schedule and pricing information.

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CANTON, Miss. (WJTV)  A new movie is being filmed in Canton, bringing in some familiar celebrities to the area.

According to Canton Tourism, The Girl in the River is producer Andrew Stevens 11th movie in Mississippi.

JSU to host 2025 Bleed Thee Blue Fall Fan Fest

Actors featured in the new film include Tiffany Haddish, Ralph Macchio, Maggie Grace and Devon Sawa.

We are grateful to the production of The Girl in the River for choosing Canton, Mississippi, as a filming location. Thank you to the incredible crew and talented cast for bringing your skills, creativity, and energy to our town. Film productions like this not only showcase Cantons charm but also bring significant economic impact, supporting our local businesses and community. Jo Ann Gordon, Canton Tourism

This is Haddishs second film in Mississippi this year. She was part of the cast of The Deputy, which was filmed in Adams County. She took the time to visit with local law enforcement. Shell also host a comedy show in November at Beau Rivage.

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This marks another movie on a long list of films that have been set in the Canton area. Those films include the 1998 movie My Dog Skip and the 1996 film A Time to Kill, starring Matthew McConaughey. These films and many more are featured in Cantons Movie Museums.

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People who moved to cities with better walkability logged about 1,100 more steps per day and were nearly twice as likely to meet exercise goals, according to a large U.S. relocation study published in the journal Nature on Wednesday.

Researchers from the University of Washington and Stanford University tracked about 5,500 Americans of all ages and fitness levels as they moved between 1,600 U.S. cities, monitoring their activity for 90 days before and after the move, from 2013 to 2016.

Using smartphone step counts and the Walk Score system, which rates locations from 0 to 100 based on access to amenities like stores, parks and schools, they found that moving from a low-walkability city (48 or less) to a high-walkability one (75 or more) added an average of 1,100 steps a day.

STOCK PHOTO/Adobe - PHOTO: People walk in a city in an undated stock photo.

That equated to roughly 11 extra minutes of walking per day, or about one additional hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week.

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The biggest jump came from moves to places like New York City, where a Walk Score of 89 translated to daily steps climbing from about 5,600 to 7,000.

"We were positively surprised by the size of that effect," Tim Althoff, the lead author of the study and an associate professor at the University of Washington in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, said. "On average, people walked about 1,400 steps every day more when they moved to New York, or if they moved [in] the opposite direction, they lost about 1,400 steps a day."

MORE: Why gentle exercise like yoga, tai chi and walking may help people sleep better

However, Althoff noted that not all steps are created equal.

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"Most of the difference actually was in this kind of brisk walk regime that is considered moderate or above," he said.

STOCK PHOTO/Adobe - PHOTO: People walk in a city in an undated stock photo.

In those who moved from low- to high-walkability cities, the proportion who met the U.S. physical activity guidelines increased from 21.5% before relocation to 42.5% after relocation. Many also moved closer to the CDC's recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week or roughly 8,000 steps of brisk walking.

If all U.S. cities matched Chicago's or Philadelphia's walkability (Walk Score 78), 36 million more Americans could meet national activity targets, a simulation performed as part of the study found. If cities matched New York City's walkability (89), that number could rise to 47 million.

One group, however, did not see a step-count bump: women over 50.

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The researchers suggested this could stem from safety concerns, caregiving responsibilities and poor transit access.

"Improving the built environment is a great start, but it's not kind of this one size fits all improvement that benefits absolutely everybody," Althoff said. "It still needs to be paired with targeted health intervention."

MORE: Just 5 extra minutes of intense exercise may help lower blood pressure, study predicts

In the U.S., more than 8% of all deaths are linked to insufficient physical activity, which is associated with about $117 billion in annual healthcare costs, according to the CDC.

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"Physical inactivity is the fourth underlying cause of death in the world and in the country because it contributes to so many chronic diseases as well as infectious diseases and mental health conditions," James Sallis, distinguished professor emeritus at the School of Public Health, University of California at San Diego, said.

Sallis stressed that walkability is about giving people safe ways to reach their destinations without relying on a car.

"Hopefully a study this large and this impressive will help convince city leaders that not making good conditions for walking is really doing a disservice to the residents," he said.

STOCK PHOTO/Adobe - PHOTO: A man walks in a city in an undated stock photo.

The study's findings highlight the ways in which urban design can significantly influence physical activity and population health, according to Althoff.

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"Helping city planners and policymakers know exactly where to direct resources and for the best results of the health of large populations in the cities is a key part," he said.

Ashish Bibireddy, MD, MPH is an internal medicine resident at The Mount Sinai Hospital and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit.
If you think last week's decision by the federal government to halt $500 million in funding for vaccine development projects that use mRNA technology will only affect COVID vaccines, think again.

These types of vaccines use messenger RNA, or mRNA, to prompt the body to make proteins that induce an antibody response to protect against a pathogen. The science behind it is also being studied for a wide range of other uses, from fighting cancer to treating autoimmune conditions and more.

Health experts have criticized the move to defund this research, pointing to the impact it will have on America's ability to develop breakthroughs against deadly or debilitating diseases.

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Jeff Coller, professor of RNA biology and therapeutics at Johns Hopkins University, called the cuts a "completely reckless decision from Robert F. Kennedy Jr." that was "clearly being made for political motivations and not those that are rested in our science."

Former Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams, who served in the first Trump administration, said the technology "helps us develop vaccines and new treatments," and warned that cuts could halt progress in one of the "most promising areas of modern medicine."

"People are going to die because we're cutting short funding for this technology," Adams said in a recent appearance on CBS News' "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan."

mRNA studied for pancreatic cancer, rare diseases and more

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Collier said one of the most exciting avenues for mRNA technology is in the treatment of deadly cancers, including pancreatic cancer, which is fatal for many patients within six months to a year.

In recent years, researchers have been testing the effectiveness of using an mRNA vaccine to target the cancer. A small NIH-funded clinical trial by Sloan Kettering in 2023 used infusions of an mRNA vaccine to help boost T cells in the immune system of pancreatic cancer patients. The results, published in the journal Nature, showed improvements among about 50% of participants.

"It was, in essence, the start of a cure for pancreatic cancer, where half of the patients in that study were surviving," Coller said.

The early results encouraged scientists, but the small sample size called for further studies, which led to a Phase 2 trial published in Nature earlier this year.

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Experimental mRNA-focused treatments have also showed promise in fighting lung, colorectal and gastric cancers. For example, a study published online in the journal Gastric Cancer found a mRNA-based vaccine led to robust gastric tumor regression in mice.

And earlier this year, the world was was awed by news that an infant named KJ Muldoon became the first patient to undergo personalized gene-editing treatment using a technique known as CRISPR to fix a rare and potentially fatal genetic disorder.

As Coller pointed out, the CRISPR technology had to be delivered via mRNA.

"This opens a floodgate for rare diseases," he said. "We're now talking about, could we use the same technology to go after all rare diseases?"

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Autoimmune diseases are another area of research, for treating things like multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.

While all of these are still at the early research stage, Coller urged the importance of investing in this technology now for future progress.

"We need to do experiments and see where we can get with the next generation of mRNA-based drugs," he said.

Like with COVID-19, there has also been continued research on mRNA-based vaccines for infectious diseases like the flu, RSV, Zika virus and cytomegalovirus, known as CMV, an infection that can be harmful to babies exposed during the mother's pregnancy.

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"We're at a point where, if we continue to develop this technology, we'll get more personalized, bespoke medicine that we can use on patients and improve health care outcomes," Coller said.

How is mRNA medicine so versatile?

RNA stands for ribonucleic acid, an essential molecule in the body's cells. It is similar to DNA but has different functions. Messenger RNA, or mRNA, carries the information required for making proteins.

As Coller put it: "If your DNA is a cookbook, your mRNA is an individual recipe that's telling your body what to do."

To harness that power for treating disease, "All we're doing with this technology is giving it new recipes. We're taking advantage of this powerful natural system that exists in your body," he said.

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The versatility and potential to help such a range of illnesses is what has experts like Coller  who was not immediately impacted by the funding cuts  hoping the administration will reinstate funding for mRNA research.

"We have to keep moving forward," he said. "People wanting to improve their family's lives and their children's lives is a bipartisan issue, it's truly an American issue. So we've got to keep moving."

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KENTUCKY (FOX 56)  Ms. Wheelchair Kentucky is getting ready to take the Ms. Wheelchair America stage.

Deborah Robbins, from West Liberty, will be competing for the 2026 title from Aug 18-24 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Robbins took the Ms. Wheelchair Kentucky title, running on a platform of accessibility and normalizing wheelchair usage.

Kentucky auditor demands answers regarding reported drivers license fraud scheme, nearly 2K revoked

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According to a news release, Deborah has been advocating for wheelchair users since she was 15, after being diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome.

Women from 20 states will head to Grand Rapids to advocate for people living with disabilities.

Ms. Wheelchair Kentucky Deborah Robbins, from West Liberty. (Ms. Wheelchair Kentucky)

For over 50 years, Ms. Wheelchair America has been a powerful platform for women with disabilities to share their voices and drive meaningful change, said Mary Zendejas, President of Ms. Wheelchair America. These remarkable women arent just competing; theyre demonstrating that disability doesnt define limits, advocacy does. Were excited to return to Grand Rapids to celebrate their achievements and amplify their missions.

The public is invited to attend the speech night on Aug. 22, when contestants share their personal journeys and passion, and the crowning gala on Aug. 23.

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Both events will take place in the Amway Ambassador Ballroom at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10.

Both events will be livestreamed on the Mary Free Bed Facebook page.

This event is so much more than a competition, said Guild co-president Maureen Kozel. Its an opportunity to elevate voices, share impactful stories, and advocate for people with disabilities across the country.

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The last Ms. Wheelchair America titleholder from Kentucky was Terri Cecil in 1998.

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MSNBC host Joe Scarborough suggested that some liberal media figures blasting President Donald Trumps federal takeover of Washington, D.C. were not being entirely honest about their concerns over crime in the nation's capital, on Tuesday's "Morning Joe."

Scarborough said he found it "interesting" that some reporters critically covering the Trump takeover have privately expressed concerns about their own safety.

"This is interesting," Scarborough said. "I actually heard from a reporter when this happened, going, Well, you know, if he doesnt overreach, this could actually be a good thing for quality of life, etc, because in DC right now, I had this happen to my family and I had that, and they go down the list. And then I saw him tweet something completely different."

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Scarborough, who said he's lived in D.C. for more than three decades, added that crime isn't as bad as it was two or three years ago, but it still was not a safe city. "Its certainly not as safe as the nations capital should be."

MSNBC host Joe Scarborough relayed how one Washington, DC journalist was privately praising President Trump's actions to stop crime in the nation's capital but publicly bashed him for it.

Washington Post Source Says Dc Is Safe But Stays Anonymous Over 'Personal Safety' Concerns

Trump announced Monday that he would place the city's police department under direct federal control and deploy National Guard troops to "reestablish law, order and public safety."

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Top Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, criticized the move as unnecessary, pointing to a reported decline in homicides. Liberal media personalities such as CNNs Dana Bash and NBCs Jonathan Allen argued that the most violent day in recent D.C. history was January 6, 2021, during the Capitol riot.

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During the "Morning Joe" segment, MSNBC host Symone Sanders Townsend pushed back, saying she has lived in D.C. for the past decade and believes rising crime fears are largely about perception, not reality.

"The way I've heard DC being described this morning, is like it's a city under siege. Like it's a dangerous place, clutching your pearls, got to keep your bag under your dress when you leave the house and that is just not true," she argued, while acknowledging "instances of juvenile crime." She argued that more police on the streets would not address the root causes of juvenile crime and accused Trump of amplifying public fears.

Top Democrats Ripped On Social Media Over 'Bonkers' Reactions To Trump's Dc Crime Plan: 'Massive Liar'

"We need to rethink what makes cities safe in America," she added.

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Scarborough countered that even lifelong Democrats are worried about their safety in Washington. He read a message from a liberal resident who refused to walk outside past 8 p.m. and whose friends had been carjacked or shot at, calling it "a change from a decade ago."

"I guarantee you that's a person that has never voted for a Republican in their life," Scarborough said. "This isn't imagined. People you know, that I know, that they love, they and their friends don't feel safe in Washington, D.C."

Protesters in Washington, D.C. protest President Trump's federal takeover of D.C. police on August 11, 2025.

Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture

During a press conference on Monday, Trump challenged liberal journalists to be honest about crime concerns in the city.

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"I understand a lot of you tend to be on the liberal side, but you dont want to get  you dont want to get mugged and raped and shot and killed," Trump said . "And you all know people and friends of yours that that happened. And so you can be anything you want, but you want to have safety in the streets. You want to be able to leave your apartment or your house where you live and feel safe and go into a store to buy a newspaper or buy something. And you dont have that now."





Original article source: MSNBC host reveals DC journalist privately shared concerns about crime while publicly denouncing Trump's plan
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Canceling federal mRNA vaccine projects threatens much more than pandemic response, according to Michigan State Universitys Director of the Precision Health Program, Anna Moore.

Last week, Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced he would terminate 22 federally-backed mRNA vaccine studies worth about $500 million. He said whole-virus platforms are safer and less likely to fail when a pathogen mutates.

Experts say its dangerous to stop research on mRNA vaccines because of how quick they are to produce.

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RFK Jr. pulls $500M in funding for mRNA vaccine development

The beauty of mRNA vaccines is that they can be produced very fast, said Moore, who received her doctorate in bioorganic chemistry from the Institute of Biochemistry at the Russian Academy of Sciences. It doesnt cost much now that weve developed the technology. Cutting this research is basically like shooting ourselves in the foot.

RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a molecule found in every living cell that helps turn genetic information into action. Messenger RNA (mRNA) is one specific type; it delivers instructions from DNA so cells can make proteins. That same mechanism lets scientists create vaccines that teach the immune system to recognize and fight viruses.

FILE  A vial of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is on display at the Lubbock Health Department Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Mary Conlon, File)

Kennedy has questioned the safety and efficacy of mRNA vaccines for years. Critics have claimed mRNA technology poses more risks than benefits, but these claims are widely disputed by public health experts.

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There has also been widespread misinformation about mRNA vaccines, with some claiming they integrate into human DNA, cause severe side effects or have not been properly tested. Extensive clinical trials and real-world data confirms that mRNA vaccines are safe and effective.

Moore fears the backlash against mRNA will bleed into broader RNA studies that have nothing to do with vaccines.

Cutting research to mRNA vaccines is going to lead to closing some research areas that could be very important, she said. Not just for epidemiology, but for other fields of science, such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease.

MSU has no active mRNA vaccine projects, yet Moores team uses a process called RNA silencing to mute malfunctioning genes in cancer cells. She argues that halting funds will stall breakthroughs in science.

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RNA research already underpins early-detection tests for genetic disorders and new drug targets. When projects end, researchers often lose their jobs or abandon the field.

Research is not a lucrative endeavor, Moore said. Research itself does not bring any money. The only thing research does is spending money.

She notes that someone may profit years later once companies start developing a new drug, but that isnt until after clinical trials and when the drug is approved and insurance begins to cover it.

Until then, its all on us, she said. Nobodys going to give me money just so I can satisfy my scientific curiosity.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PNN New Delhi [India], August 13: Thrillophilia, India's leading holiday package brand, has announced the leasing of a 50,000 sq ft next-gen workspace on Mahal Road, Jagatpura, Jaipur. This facility will become India's largest hub for travel technology innovation, housing the company's expanding engineering, product, and AI teams. The new space will serve as the central command for Thrillophilia's next-generation travel technology stack, aimed at transforming how millions of Indians and global travelers discover, plan, and experience holidays. "We're building the future of global travel from Rajasthan," said a spokesperson from Thrillophilia's leadership team. "This new hub reflects not just our growth, but our deep belief in creating world-class technology from tier-2 cities." Building a Global Travel Tech Powerhouse from Jaipur Founded in Jaipur, Thrillophilia has grown into one of India's largest travel platforms, serving millions of travelers across 200+ Indian destinations and over 70 international locations. The company employs more than 800 professionals across engineering, product, marketing, operations, and customer experience. Thrillophilia's core strength lies in its tech-first, AI-powered platform, which creates personalized, real-time holiday packages for travelers -- eliminating the traditional friction of planning and booking multi-day tours. From generating dynamic itineraries based on behavioral data to delivering real-time support throughout the trip, the company is leading a quiet revolution in how India travels. The new hub is a natural extension of this vision. The newly leased space in Jagatpura will bring together engineers, data scientists, AI researchers, and designers from across India, creating an ecosystem dedicated to building the next wave of travel innovation. From intelligent trip planning to predictive logistics, the focus will be on solving complex travel problems at scale. "We want this hub to attract talent from Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, and beyond," said the spokesperson. "But just as importantly, it gives talented engineers from Tier 2 cities -- who often move to metros for opportunities -- a world-class home right here in Rajasthan. It's not just an office -- it's a mission space for solving global travel challenges using Indian intelligence and product craftsmanship." This move also marks a major step in Rajasthan's emergence as a serious player in India's tech landscape. By anchoring a high-growth digital business within the state, Thrillophilia aims to inspire more companies to see beyond metros and invest in building from tier-2 cities. A Center for Innovation, Training, and Collaboration As the travel industry increasingly turns toward personalization, automation, and data-led decision-making, Thrillophilia's strategy has positioned it well ahead of the curve. The company has already served over 3.9 million travelers globally and sees over a million monthly active users on its platform. With this expansion, Thrillophilia aims to accelerate innovation across three core areas: -AI-Powered Itinerary Creation -Dynamic Pricing and Inventory Optimization -Real-Time On-Trip Support Systems The new hub will also serve as a training and incubation center for tech talent in the region, with the company planning to host hackathons, open product showcases, and collaborative workshops with other startups and academic institutions. A Proud Moment for Rajasthan Thrillophilia's expansion is more than a business story -- it's a cultural milestone for Rajasthan's tech future. By choosing to invest in Jaipur, the company reinforces the potential of Indian cities beyond Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to become hubs of world-class innovation. "It's a proud moment for us as a Rajasthan-born company to now lead the state into a new era of travel and tech leadership," said the team. With its 50,000 sq ft tech hub in Jaipur, Thrillophilia isn't just expanding office space -- it's expanding the boundaries of where world-class travel technology can be built. From a Jaipur-born startup to a platform powering millions of journeys worldwide, the company is proving that innovation isn't confined to India's metros. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
The MTA will hold three public hearings next week ahead of a vote to enact planned fare increases that would jack up the price of a subway or bus ride to $3.

The hearings will be held in person at NYC Transit headquarters at 130 Livingston St. in Brooklyn. All three hearings can also be attended virtually.

The first hearing will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19. The remaining two will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 20  the first from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the second from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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Members of the public who wish to speak at any of the hearings must first register.

As previously reported, the MTA is set to vote this fall on a package of fare and toll increases for MTA subways, buses, trains, bridges and tunnels.

Under the plan, subway and bus fares would go up 10 cents, to $3 a ride from $2.90.

Express bus fares would rise by a quarter  to $7.25 from $7  and be capped at $67 for a seven-day period.

On the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North, ticket fares would increase by an average of 4.4%. Monthly and weekly tickets also would rise by 4.4%.

The commuter rail CityTicket, which allows for travel within city limits on Metro-North and LIRR, will go up by a quarter: to $7.25 from $7 during peak hours, and to $5.25 from $5 off-peak.

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The fare hikes would not go into effect until January, when the iconic yellow MetroCard is scheduled to be phased out entirely in favor of the MTAs tap-to-pay OMNY system.

The MTA funds 26% of its $19.9 billion annual operating budget  distinct from the five-year capital budget  from revenue from passenger fares.
Marjorie Taylor Greene has tied herself to Donald Trump amid a torrent of personal attacks by far-right influencer Laura Loomer.

The Georgia congresswoman hinted at Loomers searing criticismsthat Greene was a b----, a lunatic hooker and a harlotin a post on X Tuesday morning.

President Trump has been the most viciously attacked President of the United States and I have been the most viciously attacked Member of the United States House of Representatives. FACT, she wrote alongside a photograph of her on stage with Trump during his first term.

President Trump has been the most viciously attacked President of the United States and I have been the most viciously attacked Member of the United States House of Representatives.



FACT.



And thats why our haters and those who are jealous constantly try to tear us apart.



IT pic.twitter.com/2M7mGoAmYn  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) August 12, 2025

And thats why our haters and those who are jealous constantly try to tear us apart, she added, declining to name names. IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN. Ive been with him since day. I LOVE President Donald J Trump!!!

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Both Loomer and Greene have claimed to have Trumps ear, with the former boasting over a dozen scalps reportedly removed from the administration at her urging. Greene is chairwoman of the DOGE subcommittee, where she oversees the Trump administrations attempts at cost-cutting.

But Greene in recent weeks made clear that she wasnt in lockstep with the president on several issues.

The congresswoman pressured the administration to provide answers on the simmering Jeffrey Epstein saga, objected to the administrations weapons shipment to Ukraine, and revealed the many concerns she had with Trumps executive order last month on artificial intelligence.

Trump has reportedly ousted more than a dozen administration officials whom Loomer wanted gone. / David Dee Delgado / Getty Images

And in June, after Trump ordered missile strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, Greene wasnt in agreement.

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American troops have been killed and forever torn apart physically and mentally for regime change, foreign wars, and for military industrial base profits, she wrote on X. Im sick of it.

Greene, in addition to declaring her all-caps LOVE for the president, reminded everyone Tuesday that Vice President JD Vance is also great in her eyes.

I was the first member of congress to endorse @JDVance and hes made me proud ever since! Great podcast interview! she wrote about his appearance Monday on The Katie Miller Podcast, whose host is the wife of White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller.

In recent months, Greene split with the president on a host of issues: artificial intelligence, the Iran bombing, Ukraine arms shipments and the Jeffrey Epstein controversy. / ELIJAH NOUVELAGE / AFP via Getty Images

Vance, when asked by Miller to name three living or dead people he would most like to have dinner with, oddly picked Trump as one of his guests.
MUSKOGEE, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Muldrow resident was sentenced to 36 months in prison on three counts of child abuse in Indian Country.

The United States Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced James Dean Bledsole, 32, was sentenced for the crime on August 13.

A news release said that the charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muldrow Police Department.

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Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says he has no tumors after stage 4 cancer diagnosis

According to investigators, between January 1, 2024, and September 24, 2024, Bledsoe restrained and covered the faces of three children entrusted to his care, while also punishing them by spraying them with cold water and withholding food.

Bledsoe will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Car carrier truck stuck under gas station overhang in northwest Charlotte

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A large, multi-car tow truck is stuck under a gas station overhang in northwest Charlotte.

Around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, reports came out of a car into a structure on the 8700 block of Mount Holly Road. When a Queen City News crew arrived at the scene, we saw a tow truck carrying at least eight cars stuck under the overhang of a Citgo gas station.

Queen City News reached out to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the Charlotte Fire Department for details on the crash. Medic said they did not respond.

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Its unclear how long the truck could be stuck there for, as it appears that the overhang will collapse if the truck is removed. However, CFD said the building was safe and the grounds were secured.

This is a Developing Story . Check back for updates

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A multi-vehicle accident on I-75 Northbound near Mile Marker 352 in Ocala, Florida, has led to the closure of all northbound lanes as of 5:40 p.m. today.

The incident involved an overturned semi-truck, which was initially traveling southbound before a tire failure caused it to veer into oncoming traffic.

The semi-truck landed on a Honda Civic, resulting in trauma alerts for its two occupants, who were transported to the hospital.

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Ocala Fire Rescue responded to the accident at approximately 3:49 p.m., discovering that all three lanes of I-75 Northbound were blocked.

The overturned semi-truck, which was transporting corn, rested on top of the Honda Civic that was traveling northbound.

Three other semi-trucks were involved in the incident. One semi impacted the rear of the overturned truck and came to a stop north of the main incident scene, while the other two semis were involved in a rear-end collision.

Emergency services, including Ocala Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, Road Rangers, and Marion County Fire Rescue, arrived on the scene to assist with traffic control and emergency services.

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A diesel spill of approximately 350 gallons occurred due to the rupture of one of the overturned semi-trucks saddle tanks, prompting notification to the state warning point.

Motorists attempting to access I-75 Northbound from SR 200 and SR 40 are being redirected, and drivers are advised to seek alternate routes until further notice.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

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Two people had to be taken to the hospital following a multi-vehicle traffic crash Monday on Interstate 64 westbound at Illinois 111 near milepost 6 in Washington Park.

No immediate medical information was available on the injured persons.

A preliminary investigation conducted by Illinois State Police Troop 8 says when troopers responded at 5:25 p.m. Monday, they learned a tractor-trailer car hauler struck the Illinois 111 bridge and reportedly came to a halt in the lane.

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A second tractor-trailer then struck the car hauler.

At least two people were taken to area hospitals, a news release from Illinois State Police said.

The I-64 westbound lanes were closed at this location and traffic was diverted onto Illinois 111, which is also known as Kingshighway.

All lanes reopened at approximately 10:17 p.m.

No further information was available regarding this incident, ISP said.
(The Center Square)  More than a year from Election Day, a number of proposals are already moving toward appearing on Michigans 2026 ballot.

Currently, six proposals have received approval from the state Board of State Canvassers and are in the process of gathering signatures. One proposal is already set to appear on the ballot.

Each proposal must be presented in a 100-word summary to voters. According to state law, the board must determine whether the language of the summaries are true and impartial.

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Since 1986, Michigan voters approved 34 ballot proposals, defeating 31.

The one measure already set to appear on the ballot asks voters whether to hold a state constitutional convention. It will appear on the ballot as an automatic ballot referral, meaning it automatically appears on the states ballot every 16 years.

Michigan is one of 14 states that provides for an automatic constitutional convention question, something that was first approved by Michigan voters in 1960.

Five of the proposals are constitutional amendments.

 AxMITAX: Prohibit state, county, or municipal property taxes; require 60% of voters to approve local taxes; and require a 2/3 vote of both the state Senate and House to increase any state tax which would raise revenue by more than 0.1% over five years.

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 Protect Voters Rights: Require individuals to verify United States citizenship during voter registration; require photo ID for in-person and absentee voters.

 Americans for Citizens Voting, Version 1: Require the Secretary of State to verify citizenship of all registered voters, document citizenship, remove non-citizens using governmental records, and track separate eligibility requirements for federal and state/local elections; and prohibit counting ballots from voters with unverified citizenship.

 Americans for Citizens Voting, Version 2: Require citizenship verification for all voters through statewide program, document submission, or provisional voting; require removing noncitizens after notice and 45-day rebuttal; and prohibit counting ballots from voters with unverified citizenship starting in 2027.

 Rank MI Vote: Require ranked-choice voting for federal offices and state leadership by allowing voters to numerically rank candidates by voter preference starting in 2029.

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The sixth proposal that has been approved is a voter referendum. The Voters to Stop Paycuts referendum would repeal Public Act 1 of 2025, which raised the state minimum wage to $15 by 2027. If passed, it would return the state to previous legislation which totally phased out the tipped wage system.

Business leaders in the state have been vocal in their opposition to this referendum.

This is a damaging proposal for the economy, for small businesses, larger businesses, but especially for workers, said Brian Calley, president and CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan, as previously reported by The Center Square.

To be placed on the November 2026 ballot, each proposal must receive more than 300,000 signatures by March 2026.
Some passengers who scheduled Carnival Cruises for 2027 are getting bad news.

The popular cruise line has cancelled multiple cruises, although the reason isn't clear. That follows a string of spring 2026 cancellations.

The Carnival Cruise Ship Line Is Cancelling 5 Sailings of the Carnival Breeze, Reports Say

According to Travel and Tour World, Carnival is cancelling "five 2027 sailings of the Carnival Breeze."

The Carnival Breeze "sails year-round from Galveston, Texas."

The reason for the cancellations was not given. However, the Hindustan Times reported that the affected dates are:

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Jan. 11, 2027

March 5, 2027

March 13, 2027

March 18, 2027

March 22, 2027

According to Travel and Tour World, though, cruise cancellations are "often driven by a combination of operational, logistical, and scheduling factors."

Among them: "major refurbishments, shifts in demand for particular routes, or updates to the cruise schedule to better align with global travel trends," the site reported.

Passengers will be able to rebook the cruises, Travel and Tour World reported.

Cruise ship cancellations can occur suddenly. The cruise line previously cancelled a Carnival Liberty cruise "at the last minute due to a shipyard workers strike in Cadiz, Spain," according to Come Cruise With Me.

However, Fans of Carnival Cruises Will Have Some New Options in 2027

Nassau, Bahamas - August 24, 2019: Carnival Liberty cruise ship docked at Prince George Wharf. Blue hour. Gorgeous reflections of the ship's and port's lights in the harbour water in the foreground. SeregaSibTravel/Getty Images

Despite the cruises being cancelled, fans of the cruise ship line will have some new options in 2027.

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"Carnival Cruise Line announced new itineraries today that include a special visit to Acapulco, Mexico, which will mark a significant milestone as the cruise lines first stop in the legendary destination in more than 15 years," according to a July 2025 news release.

"The announcement is a truly noteworthy element of a slate of new sailings Carnival opened for sale today, as it continues extending its cruise schedule from spring 2027 into 2028," Carnival wrote.

Carnival also announced, "As it extends its cruise schedule into 2027/28, Carnival Cruise Line today announced new sailings for Carnival Panorama that continue the ships year-round deployment from Long Beach, California, to the Mexican Rivieras most popular ports."

Related: Disney Plus Cancels Beloved Show After 75 Million Viewing Hours

Multiple Carnival Cruises Cancelled for Unclear Reasons first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
(The Center Square)  Several law enforcement officials across Louisiana have been arrested in recent weeks in a string of corruption and misconduct cases, including three arrests by Louisiana State Police in the last five days.

On Saturday, the Concordia Parish Sheriffs Office asked the State Police Criminal Investigations Division to investigate a confrontation involving on-duty Deputy Drakel Carter. Investigators determined the deputys verbal dispute with an individual escalated into a physical altercation. Carter was arrested Monday, charged with simple battery and malfeasance in office.

New Orleans Police Officer Terrance T.J. Johnson, 56, surrendered Wednesday following an investigation of arrangements and payments for sexual encounters while on duty in the French Quarter. Johnson faces multiple counts, including prostitution, malfeasance in office, and injuring public records.

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Also Monday, State Police arrested Caddo Parish Sheriffs Deputy Frank Launer III, 50. He's accused of automobile insurance fraud. Investigators say Launer obtained insurance coverage after a crash, then filed a claim the same day.

The Louisiana Attorney Generals Louisiana Bureau of Investigation has also announced recent arrests.

On Aug. 6, former Golden Meadow Police Chief Troy Dufrene was charged with injuring public records, malfeasance in office, and computer tampering. Prosecutors say he deleted more than 12 years of police records following his election loss. Attorney General Liz Murrill said Dufrenes actions disrupted the departments operations and were a betrayal of public trust.

On July 31, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation agents arrested Ville Platte Police Officer Issac Johnson on charges of malfeasance in office, filing false public records, and obstruction of justice. Johnson is accused of participating in a scheme to frame another officer for tampering with missing evidence in a shooting investigation.

In a separate federal case announced July 16, five central Louisiana men  including Oakdale Police Chief Chad Doyle, Ward 5 Marshal Michael Freck Slaney, Forest Hill Police Chief Glynn Dixon, and former Glenmora Police Chief Tebo Onishea  were indicted alongside a local businessman. They are accused of a years-long scheme to submit fraudulent immigration applications for profit.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department on Wednesday imposed visa restrictions on foreign government officials accused of assisting the Cuban regime in a scheme exploiting medical professionals.

Officials from several African nations, Cuba Grenada were sanctioned in a State Department news release. Then later Wednesday, several Brazilian government officials and former Pan American Health Organization officials were targeted for their work with Brazil's More Doctors program. In all situations, their family members are also affected.

"We are committed to ending this practice," Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted on X after the African and Grenadian officials were sanctioned. "Countries who are complicit in this exploitative practice should think twice."

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After Brazilians were named, Marco wrote on X: "Mais Medicos [Spanish for More Doctors] was an unconscionable diplomatic scam of foreign 'medical missions.'"

Cuba is accused of sending the workers to some 50 countries for little or no pay for long hours, keeping their passports, confiscating medical credentials, and subjecting them to surveillance and curfews. Many of them reported being sexually abused by their supervisors. If they left the program, they faced repercussions.

Rubio said "several" African nations were sanctioned. Marco and the news release didn't name that continent's countries or the officials involved there, as well as Cuba and Grenada.

But the release about Brazil named: Mozart Julio Tabosa Sales and Alberto Kleiman, who worked in the nation's Ministry of Health, played a role in planning and implementing the New Doctors program.

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These officials used PAHO as an intermediary with the Cuban regime to implement the program "without following Brazilian constitutional requirements, dodging U.S. sanctions on Cuba, and knowingly paying the Cuban regime what was owed to Cuban medical workers," according to the release.

In the described scheme, they were complicit with the Cuban government, in which medical professionals were "rented" by other countries at higher prices, with most of the revenue kept by the Cuban authorities, the State Department alleged.

They were involved in "depriving the Cubans of essential care," the State Department said.

"The United States continues to engage governments, and will take action as needed, to bring an end to such forced labor," the first release said. "We urge governments to pay the doctors directly for their services, not the regime slave masters."

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The federal agency urged governments to end this method of forced labor.

In June, the U.S. agency imposed visa restrictions on unspecified Central American government officials for being involved in the medical mission program.

Rubio at the time described a similar scheme in which "officials responsible for Cuban medical missions programs that include elements of forced labor and the exploitation of Cuban workers."

In June, Havana's foreign minister, Bruno Rodriguez, said the visa restrictions were "based on falsehoods and coercion."

In late May, the State Department suspended the applications for J-1 visas, which allow people to come to the United States for exchange visitor programs. One week later, the department resumed visa interviews, but people seeking the visas were required to make their social media accounts public.

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This year, more than 6,600 non-U.S. citizen doctors were accepted into residency programs, according to the National Resident Matching Program. Many residents go into underserved communities because they are less popular among U.S. applicants.

Medical professionals comprised 75% of Cuba's exported workforce, generating $4.9 billion of its total $7 billion in 2022, according to the State Department's 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report.

"Traffickers exploit Cuban citizens in sex trafficking and forced labor in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Latin America and the United States," the report said."

Simultaneously, the U.S. government has fully restricted and limited people from 12 foreign countries in June. Cuba was among seven nations with restricted and limited entry.

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"These restrictions distinguish between, but apply to both, the entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants," the order states about the two designations," a proclamation by President Donald Trump reads.

Trump issued the ban on nationals from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Also partial restricted were those form Burundi, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
PRNewswire Kochi (Kerala) [India], August 13: In a bold move to solidify its role in the next wave of technological transformation, Litmus7 has officially announced its foray into generative AI, coupled with the opening of a brand-new AI Innovation Office in Trivandrum, India. This expansion marks a pivotal moment for Litmus7, as it sets its sights on building advanced generative models, AI-first products, and scalable tools aimed at reshaping how businesses and consumers interact with information, content, and automation. Neural Intelligence as a Strategic Bet "Neural Intelligence is our grand vision where humans can teach their AI by simply interacting with it and the next generation AI system learns from experiences without the need for a curated dataset," said Venu Gopalakrishnan, Founder and CEO Litmus7. "We're investing in the people, the infrastructure, and the space to build AI that's not only powerful, but practical and human-centered." The company has already begun developing digital companions powered by Neural Intelligence with applications ranging from workflow optimization to knowledge management. Initial prototypes are being tested across customer service, marketing, product design, and engineering -- with plans to roll out AGI-enhanced features across its entire suite in 2026. A New Office with a New Mission The newly launched office -- located in Trivandrum, India -- will serve as the physical home of the company's growing AI team. Designed as a cross-functional space for scientists, engineers, designers, researchers, and product thinkers, the office blends high-tech labs with collaborative design studios. "This is more than just square footage," said Shiju Saseendaran, Head of AI Research, Litmus7."It's a signal of where we're headed -- toward next generation AI development, deeper research partnerships, and a global talent strategy that's rooted in curiosity, responsibility, and experimentation." The space will also host workshops, hackathons, and AI speaker series to foster collaboration with local universities, startups, and research institutions. Bridging Research and Real-World Use While AGI research is still in its early stages, Litmus7 aims to strike the balance between fundamental research and real-world usability. The team is building contextually aware, self-evolving, and explainable intelligence. What's Next? With the momentum from its new office and a roadmap full of AI-powered product features, Litmus7 is signaling its long-term belief in AI as a transformative technology. "We're not here to chase the hype -- we're here to redefine the future," said Venu Gopalakrishnan, Founder and CEO Litmus7. About Litmus7 Litmus7 stands at the forefront of retail technology, helping retailers reimagine what's possible through unmatched industry insight and forward-looking solutions. From strategy and architecture to execution and innovation, we deliver seamless, enterprise-wide transformation that drives measurable impact. Leveraging cutting-edge research and AI leadership, we enable retailers not only to keep pace with industry evolution but to set the benchmark for the next era of global commerce. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. (PIX11)  Police, beach patrol officers, lifeguards, and EMTs spent Tuesday evening in the surf both in Seaside Heights and neighboring Lavallette helping to rescue at least two people in distress in rough surf, and searching for one other missing swimmer.

The incidents were the latest in a string of drownings, near-drownings, and water rescues in the New York-New Jersey coastal region since Sunday.

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The situation is raising concerns for coastal towns as temperatures continue to rise in the region, and more and more people head to the beach seeking relief from the hot weather. Theres also a tropical storm out in the Atlantic thats expected to intensify an already volatile rip current condition along the coast.

On Tuesday evening, the massive response on the Seaside Heights Beach near Webster Avenue happened after beachgoers saw a swimmer whod ventured about well beyond the breakers after lifeguards shifts ended at 5:00 p.m.

We saw his hands go up, said Jay Rivera, whod alerted police about the danger. He said that the swimmer went underwater, and we didnt see him come back up.

The search continued Tuesday evening, exactly 24 hours after another emergency in the exact same location.

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On Monday evening, a 31-year-old man drowned after being pulled out into a rip current with a group of four other people at around 6:30 p.m on Monday.

Person dies after getting caught in rip current in NJ: Official

In that case, a police beach patrol spotted the group in distress.

We were quick, said Police Chief Thomas Boyd. If we werent there within two minutes, there would have been five lives lost. One 16-year-old took on a lot of water. We almost lost him, but he made it.

That drowning happened hours after a 77-year-old woman drowned off Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn. She has been identified as Liudmila Marchenko.

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Both drownings were the latest in a string of more than half a dozen water emergencies.

There was a water rescue off Great Kills Beach, Staten Island, on Monday; another water rescue in Rockland Lake, NY, on Sunday; a drowning in Sea Bright, NJ, on Sunday; a water rescue in Smithtown, Long Island, on Sunday; and a near-drowning in Wantaugh on Sunday.

Chief Boyd said that the way to reduce the number of incidents is simple.

Its just common sense, he said in an interview. If theres no lifeguard there, dont swim. Dont swim.

Meanwhile, the mayor of Seaside Heights, Tony Vaz, said that his town is stepping up its efforts to make sure that beachgoers follow important, potentially lifesaving rules, including not going into the water above their knees after lifeguards end their shifts.

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Among measures that the town is taking, Vaz said, is that warning signs for swimmers that are currently posted in English are also being printed in Spanish. Plus, the chief has authorized his officers, Vaz said, regarding interaction with beachgoers, if they are belligerent about getting out of the water, well issue them a ticket. And if theyre belligerent afterward, theyll be arrested.

He also said that his town is among many down the Shore that are bracing for the effects of Tropical Storm Erin.

No matter what it brings, he said, the same rules always apply: its safest to stay out of the water unless a lifeguard is there on duty.

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The mother of a woman who died after refusing chemotherapy for cancer "presented a challenge" to paramedics trying to save her daughter's life after she suffered a heart attack, an inquest has heard.

Paloma Shemirani, 23, from Uckfield, East Sussex, was diagnosed at Maidstone Hospital with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in December 2023.

She died seven months later after seeking only "alternative" treatment.

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Her mother Kate Shemirani, a former nurse who rose to prominence on social media sharing Covid conspiracy theories, calls chemotherapy toxic and dangerous, the inquest was told.

'We had to be quite firm'

When Paloma collapsed at her mother's home in July 2024, paramedic Robin Bass said Kate "presented a challenge as she kept interrupting while the crews were carrying out care".

He told the coroner that Kate mentioned a mass on her daughter's chest.

When Mr Bass told colleagues it could be cancer, he said Kate denied it was.

Paloma's mother, who was struck off as a nurse for promoting misinformation about the pandemic, instead said she was choking on food.

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Paloma, a Cambridge graduate, died at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton after suffering a heart attack caused by her tumour.

Dr Peter Anderson, who saw her when paramedics brought her in, previously told the inquest a large mass in her chest and neck, which was compressing her airways and affecting major blood vessels, could have caused the cardiac arrest.

A safeguarding report was later requested over concerns about Paloma's refusal of cancer treatment and the "possible influence" of her mother.

Paloma's twin brother Gabriel, who blames her death on his mother's conspiratorial beliefs, asked if she had made the paramedics' job more difficult that night.

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Mr Bass said: "I believe we had to be quite firm at some points had to ask for quiet while administering care to your sister."

The coroner previously heard that Ms Shemirani had called a friend when Paloma collapsed, only dialling 999 after her friend arrived at the house.

Kate Shemirani (pictured) called her friend before dialling 999 [Getty Images]

Paloma's brother Gabriel asked another paramedic who treated Paloma at the inquest if his mum's delay in calling an ambulance affected her chance of survival.

"It's difficult to say," said Karen Clarke, Secamb critical care paramedic.

"You always recommend someone calling 999 straight away."

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Gabriel asked Ms Clarke if she would have called a friend first, she replied she would have called an ambulance first.

Dr Arundoya Mohan, a consultant haematologist at Maidstone Hospital, told Paloma in December 2023 she had an 80% chance of recovery if she had chemotherapy.

Ms Shemirani blames doctors for her daughter's death.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) -A new mural in Greenville celebrates the ties between the community and the state.

The mural titled The Threads of Community was unveiled on Tuesday on the Family Trust Federal Credit Union building off Laurens Road. It is a collaborative effort between the credit union and the Greenville Center for Creative Arts that pays homage to South Carolinas state bird, the Carolina wren, the textile industry and the Reedy River.

A total of five artists worked on the mural, alongside some employees from the credit union.

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Once the artist makes the work, its out there for the community to enjoy, and they will get their takeaways from what they saw and how they felt, artist Orlando Corona said.

I think my job as an artist is to create the work, enjoy the process, and keep continuing to build the community.

The mural is intended to be a piece for the community to enjoy, with viewers taking away their own interpretations and feelings from the artwork.

The unveiling of The Threads of Community mural highlights the collaborative spirit and cultural heritage of the Upstate, offering a new artistic landmark for residents and visitors alike.

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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.

MURRAY, Utah (ABC4)  A Murray woman has been arrested and charged after the FBI discovered she had created and distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online.

A 31-year-old woman, whom ABC4 is not identifying to protect the identity of the victim, has been charged with one count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child and one count of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, both first-degree felonies.

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According to court documents, on Aug. 6, 2025, the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force (CEHTTF) in Utah was contacted by FBI agents in Florida regarding an account uploading CSAM to an online forum. The Florida FBI Field Office had investigated, and determined that the account owner was posting from somewhere in Utah.

The CEHTTF reviewed the images posted on the account and discovered a photo of a woman who they believed owned the account, later identified as the 31-year-old. She allegedly included a caption that identified herself as a pedophile.

READ NEXT: West Haven man pleads guilty to sending and receiving CSAM through social media

Using that photo and other information from the account, law enforcement determined that the account belonged to the 31-year-old woman, who lived in Murray. They tracked down her address and served a search warrant on Aug. 8, two days after the initial tip from the Florida FBI.

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Law enforcement took the womans electronic devices and cell phone. She was detained, and the CEHTTF conducted an interview with her. The 31-year-old allegedly admitted that she did download and post CSAM on her account.

During the interview, the woman also admitted that she had sexually abused a minor child that she knew and had access to, who was under 14. According to documents, the 31-year-old recorded the sexual abuse and claimed that she had uploaded that video around 200 times, posting it or sending it to other users.

Law enforcement made contact with the minor victim, who confirmed that they had been sexually abused by the 31-year-old woman.

The woman was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail, where she is currently being held on a no-bail warrant due to her risk to the victim and other children.

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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.
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk announced plans to sue Apple, accusing the tech company of antitrust violations over its App Store rankings that favor a rival AI app.

Musks artificial intelligence startup, xAI, claims Apple is giving preferential treatment to OpenAIs ChatGPT chatbot app, preventing other AI apps like Musks Grok from reaching the top position in App Store charts.

Apple is behaving in a manner that makes it impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1 in the App Store, which is an unequivocal antitrust violation. xAI will take immediate legal action.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 12, 2025

Notably, these claims were refuted in a community note, with X writing that In January 2025, DeepSeek reached #1 overall on the App Store.

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Just one month ago, on July 18, 2025, Perplexity also reached #1 overall in Indias App Store, continued the community note.

Both of these occurred after the OpenAIApple partnership announced on June 10, 2024.

At the time of writing, Grok ranks sixth among free apps on the iPhone App Store in the United States, while ChatGPT holds the number one spot.

Musk has also criticized Apples refusal to feature his social media platform X or the Grok app in the App Stores Must Have section despite its popularity.

Hey @Apple App Store, why do you refuse to put either  or Grok in your Must Have section when  is the #1 news app in the world and Grok is #5 among all apps? Are you playing politics? What gives? Inquiring minds want to know. https://t.co/3wenLZGtwG  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 11, 2025

Apple has not responded to Musks allegations or legal threat.

The company maintains a partnership with OpenAI, integrating ChatGPT into iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

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This decision to implement OpenAI into products has also prompted backlash from Musk, with the billionaire writing in another post that Apple is the gateway to the Internet for half of America.

Apple is the gateway to the Internet for half of America. They are making it impossible for any other AI company to succeed by relentlessly promoting OpenAI in every way possible! https://t.co/p6WdOLuzO5  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 12, 2025

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded to one of Musks posts to criticize the billionaire, claiming that Musk also messes with the X algorithm for his own benefit.

This is a remarkable claim given what I have heard alleged that Elon does to manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like. https://t.co/HlgzO4c2iC  Sam Altman (@sama) August 12, 2025

Musk and Altmans rivalry has evolved over the past few years from a partnership to a public feud that now intensifies amid a legal battle and competition in artificial intelligence.

Once partners who founded OpenAI with a goal to promote AI for the public good, their relationship soured after Musk left the board in 2018 following disagreements over company direction and control.

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Musk has repeatedly accused Altman and OpenAI of straying from their original non-profit mission, criticizing the shift to a for-profit model and accusing them of breaching antitrust laws.

These allegations boiled over when Musk filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in 2024, claiming that the company intentionally courted and deceived Musk, preying on Musks humanitarian concern about the existential dangers posed by artificial intelligence, according to the Associated Press.

Now, it seems the two are destined to once again meet in the courts following the most recent lawsuit threats by Musk.
(Reuters) -A federal judge on Tuesday denied Elon Musk's bid to dismiss OpenAI's claims of a "years-long harassment campaign" by the Tesla CEO against the company he co-founded in 2015 and later abandoned before ChatGPT became a global phenomenon.

In the latest turn in a court battle that kicked off last year, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Musk must face OpenAI's claims that the billionaire, through press statements, social media posts, legal claims and "a sham bid for OpenAI's assets" had attempted to harm the AI startup.

Musk sued OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman last year over the company's transition to a for-profit model, accusing the company of straying from its founding mission of developing AI for the good of humanity, not profit.

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OpenAI countersued Musk in April, accusing the billionaire of engaging in fraudulent business practices under California law. Musk then asked for OpenAI's counterclaims to be dismissed or delayed until a later stage in the case.

OpenAI argued in May its countersuit should not be put on hold, and the judge on Tuesday concluded that the company's allegations were legally sufficient to proceed.

A jury trial has been scheduled for spring 2026.

(Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
Aug. 13Showing sheep takes skills, patience and, more often than not, sheer willpower.

Kayla McConkey, 17, has shown sheep at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo for three years through Kalispell FFA. In all that time, she has never had a well-behaved lamb.

"He really likes to chew on things," McConkey said of her current lamb, Clyde.

At that very moment, Clyde had the paper tag from a folding chair clenched in his teeth. McConkey wedged her fingers between Clyde's lips in an attempt to extricate the tag, but the lamb scrambled away from her grasp.

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The brief struggle attracted the attention of fellow FFA student, Dezaray Herman, a few stalls down inside the Trade Center at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

"OK, I have a really quick question for you," she called to McConkey before launching into a description of her own sheep's antics.

Herman explained how, just a few minutes ago, her lamb had nearly choked itself by getting tangled in the cord of a blow-dryer. This was Herman's first year in FFA, and she wanted to know: was that normal?

McConkey nodded in painful recognition.

"It's like leaving a toddler," she said as Clyde made another lunge toward the canvas chair.

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At the outdoor grooming station ahead of the Aug. 12 competition, Hadlee Lau, 12, and her sheep, Betty, were engaged in their own battle of wills. The blue Hampshire ewe refused to step onto the raised grooming platform. She threw her head back and bleated every time Lau tugged on the lead.

"She's kind of an ornery lamb in general," said Lau once she finally managed to leverage the animal onto the platform. "She's a breeding ewe, and she has a mind of her own."

As a member of the Glacier View 4-H club, Lau has participated in plenty of pig shows, but this was her first foray into the ovine family. She quickly discovered that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Sheep, she said, are far tougher to handle than pigs.

For advice, Lau often turned to Maddie Sutton, who showed sheep at the Northwest Montana Fair for eight years as a child and teenager, and now volunteers as a barn supervisor, assisting kids as they ready their sheep for competition.

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"The job at the beginning of the week is always stressful," Sutton said. "But I'm so proud of these kids."

All of the sheep made weight on Sunday, which Sutton viewed as evidence of the hard work the contestants had put into their livestock this year. She said it was the first in years that there had been no underweight or overweight lambs.

An hour before the showcase, Sutton directed Lau through the proper grooming protocols. After a quick spritz with the hose, Lau rubbed a microfiber cloth over Betty's sheared body. She scraped a wire brush through the thick wool on Betty's legs. After a final pass with the blow dryer, Betty was ready for her close-up with the judge.

Inside the arena, the sheep shenanigans continued. There was no pulling the wool over the eyes of the judge, as she commanded each participant through a series of exercises to assess their showmanship abilities.

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The contestants made constant micro adjustments. Feet were repositioned. Heads were hoisted higher. More than one lamb rebelled under the ministrations of their handler, and a few even managed to break free and trapeze across the arena.

"These kids had dance partners out here that may not have wanted to dance," remarked judge Karly Hanson at the conclusion of the senior showmanship round.

Despite the missteps, Hanson said she was thoroughly impressed by the contestants' resilience and professionalism.

At the end of the day, Dezaray Herman said the wild personalities and roguish antics are part of what makes showing sheep fun.

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"It's a lot of hard work, but it's definitely worth it at the end because you have a built-in best friend," she said.

Reporter Hailey Smalley can be reached at 758-4433 or hsmalley@dailyinterlake.com.

Miley Fritz positions a sheep for the judge during the senior showmanship competition Aug. 12 in the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitney Olson positions her sheep's leg during the senior showmanship competition Aug. 12 in the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Jayne McLean, 15, competes with sheep Jack during the senior showmanship competition Aug. 12 in the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

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Hadlee Lau, 12, prepares her sheep for competition Aug. 12 outside the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Wyatt Fant, 11, wipes the face of his sheep Kermit Aug. 12 outside the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Competitors line up their sheep during the showmanship competition Aug. 12 inside the ring at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)

Competitors line up their sheep during the showmanship competition Aug. 12 inside the ring at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Heidi Desch/Daily Inter Lake)
(Reuters) -Myanmar's military chief has called for increased security for political party members and candidates as a newly formed interim government proceeds with a planned election in December and January that has been dismissed in the West as a sham.

Min Aung Hlaing, who is also the war-torn country's acting president, asked authorities to take measures for protecting politicians and voters, while warning of a rise in attacks on civil servants in the run up to the polls, the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported on Wednesday.

"The Senior General highlighted that the election must be held without fail," the state-run publication said, referring to comments made by Min Aung Hlaing at the first meeting of a new commission formed to hold the polls.

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With opposition groups either barred from running or refusing to take part, the planned election has been dismissed by Western governments as a move to entrench the generals' power and is expected to be dominated by proxies of the military.

Military-backed authorities last year held a nationwide census in an effort to create voter rolls but were only to able to conduct on-ground surveys in 145 out of Myanmar's 330 townships.

Myanmar's military this month nominally transferred power to a civilian-led interim administration to conduct the election, four years after Min Aung Hlaing led a coup that unseated an the elected civilian government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.

The takeover triggered widespread protests and eventually sparked a civil war, where an array of established ethnic armies and newly-formed armed groups are battling the well-armed military on multiple frontlines.

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In Tuesday's meeting in the capital Naypyitaw, officials reviewed military operations in preparation of the polls and reinforcing security through the formation of "people's security" groups, the newspaper said.

A military-led council last month also introduced new electoral laws aimed at improving security, containing punishments ranging from a minimum of three years in prison to the death penalty.

(Reporting by Reuters Staff; Editing by Martin Petty)
RAMSEY, N.J. (PIX11)  A mysterious ball of light was seen by people up and down the East Coast on Tuesday night.

Cindy Zonneveld, of Ramsey, N.J., took a video of the glowing orb while walking with her dog. Cybersleuths got to work, saying the mysterious light aligned in timing with the blastoff of a Vulcan rocket in Cape Canaveral.

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The United Launch Alliance sent up an experimental navigation satellite, the first in 48 years, via the 202-foot Vulcan Centaur rocket for the U.S. military shortly before 9 p.m.

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The satellite is a position, navigation and timing satellite, providing data similar to that of a GPS system. It will be testing new technologies meant to prevent jamming attacks.

Some people reported seeing the orb as far away as northern Ohio.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

The Vulcan has already made two successful flights in January and last October.

The Vulcan Centaur rocket can launch from both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
UPDATE: This story was updated Thursday with a statement from the county prosecutors office.

A Catholic church in Monmouth County has accused its former finance director of misappropriating $1.5 million over a six-year period and spending it on personal expenses, according to a civil lawsuit filed on Friday.

The Church of Saint Leo the Great in Lincroft accused Joseph Manzi of systematically and secretly using parish funds for his own benefit, attorneys for the church claimed in the civil complaint.

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Manzi is accused of spending the money on construction projects at his home in Atlantic Highlands, tickets to sporting events, payments for his personal vehicles, expenses related to his daughters wedding, taxes, meals and cigars, according to the complaint.

Manzi did not have an attorney listed in court records and he did not immediately return a voicemail seeking comment.

Manzi began working as the finance director for the parish on March 1, 2014, and was responsible for overall operations of St. Leos, including payroll, expenses, bookkeeping and human resources, the complaint says.

Church officials first discovered Manzis expenditures on July 31 after the parishs bursar and bookkeeper were investigating a charge on a credit card they wanted to close, the complaint says.

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St. Leos officials learned Manzi had incurred charges on one of the parishs credit cards related to a Cadillac he owned, the lawsuit claims.

As church officials continued investigating, they discovered Manzi had used St. Leos American Express and Capital One business cards for personal expenses, racking up credit card points for his personal use, the lawsuit claims.

Credit card statements were sent directly to Manzi, who controlled mail distribution for the parish, according to the lawsuit.

While reviewing those statements, parish officials found Manzi treated the St. Leos operating account as his personal piggy bank given the litany of charges related to his personal vehicles, construction projects on his home; landscaping, gift cards; expenses related to his daughters wedding; his own taxes; meals and cigars, attorneys for the church claim.

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Attorneys for St. Leos also claim Manzi embezzled more than $1 million of business revenue by diverting money to fraudulent accounts controlled solely by him and maintaining automatic payments for personal expenses directly from the churchs operating account.

St. Leos attorneys claim in the lawsuit that Manzi has not reimbursed the church for those personal charges.

Manzi was fired from his role with St. Leos on June 26, according to the complaint. It was unclear what led to Manzis dismissal a month prior to the discovery of the alleged financial fraud.

St. Leos is still investigating the alleged embezzlement, according to the complaint.

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Christopher Swendeman, a spokesperson for the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office, said law enforcement officials are aware of the claims in the civil suit.

We can neither confirm nor deny that an investigation was, or is, underway into those claims, Swendeman told NJ Advance Media.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com.
PRNewswire Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 13: In a historic move for the country, a private Indian consortium will deliver the nation's first Earth Observation Satellite System (EOSS), a 12-satellite network to be developed over the next four to five years with an investment of more than 1,200 crores. SatSure Joins India's First Indigenous Private EO Constellation to Deliver Sovereign-Ready, End-to-End Decision Intelligence Solutions. Key Highlights: * 1,200 crore EO-PPP programme awarded by IN-SPACe to build India's first fully-indigenous, fully-commercial satellite constellation comprising of 12 multi-sensor satellites to be built and operated by the consortium led by Pixxel Space, with SatSure, Dhruva Space, and PierSight as strategic partners, ushering in a new era of privately built sovereign earth observation capacity for India.* These satellites will be deployed over the next three to five years, integrating panchromatic, multispectral, hyperspectral, and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payloads for unmatched sensing capabilities.* SatSure will be contributing two satellites in this consortium, with its novel optical and multi-spectral wide swath imager developed by its subsidiary KaleidEO. The consortium of SatSure, Pixxel Space, PierSight, and Dhruva Space has been awarded to build, operate, and commercialize a constellation of Earth Observation (EO) satellite under the Earth Observation Public-Private-Partnership (EO-PPP) programme announced by IN-SPACe. Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe, highlighted how the programme reflects a structural shift in India's space industry, and said, "This initiative signals the coming of age of India's private space industry in the space sector. It demonstrates the capability and confidence of Indian companies to lead large-scale, technologically advanced, and commercially viable space missions that serve both national and global markets. The EO-PPP model fosters an ecosystem where public and private capabilities reinforce each other to drive growth, innovation, and self-reliance." Prateep Basu, Co-founder & CEO, SatSure said, "We are excited to have received this opportunity from IN-SPACe in contributing to building India's sovereign capabilities in the domain of satellite Earth observation and data intelligence. Together, with Pixxel Space, PierSight, and Dhruva Space, we have ensured that not only do we provide the most comprehensive solution for India's domestic EO needs, but also usher in a new era of private sector collaboration to achieve the monumental vision that IN-SPACe set for the growth of the Indian private space industry. SatSure, with its subsidiary KaleidEO, will be contributing by commercializing its novel optical and multi-spectral payload that provides high coverage at sub-meter spatial resolution. I believe this is a milestone not just for India's space story, but for how EO technology can deliver meaningful, measurable value to users across different industries." The EO-PPP programme will deploy a constellation of 12 multi-sensor satellites over the next three to five years, built and operated by Pixxel Space as the lead, and integrating panchromatic, multispectral, hyperspectral, and SAR payload to deliver unmatched sovereign Earth Intelligence for India, while building for the world. Awais Ahmed, Founder & CEO, Pixxel, said, "Dhruva Space's expertise in satellite platforms and mission operations, paired with Pixxel's leadership in hyperspectral imaging and spacecraft manufacturing, SatSure's strength in geospatial analytics, and PierSight's advanced SAR and maritime monitoring capabilities, creates a partnership with truly complementary strengths. Together, we're building a fully indigenous EO system that will deliver unmatched versatility for national priorities and global applications, and showcase the depth and capability of India's private Space sector." Sanjay Nekkanti, Co-founder & CEO, Dhruva Space, comments, "Dhruva Space is thrilled to join forces in this watershed initiative. Our upcoming 280,000 sq ft state-of-the-art spacecraft manufacturing complex in Telangana will substantially augment our high-throughput manufacturing, assembly, integration, and test (AIT) capacity, enabling rapid delivery of bespoke satellites and mission-critical subsystems. Complementing this is Dhruva Space's capability to deliver turnkey Ground Segment infrastructure, ensuring secure, seamless operations across the EO constellation lifecycle. By integrating these competencies with the domain expertise of our consortium partners, we are positioned to deliver a resilient, end-to-end EO architecture that addresses strategic requirements while meeting global commercial benchmarks." "SAR makes the constellation operational 24/7 in all weather conditions. Our role is to deliver radar-first, analysis-ready products with low latency, so agencies and enterprises get alerts and evidence, not just raw data," adds Gaurav Seth, Co-founder & CEO, PierSight. This landmark EO-PPP initiative not only cements India's position as a leader in space-powered solutions but also establishes a robust foundation for a sovereign Earth Intelligence ecosystem. Beyond contributing the optical multispectral satellites, SatSure's expertise in Artificial Intelligence led imagery interpretation, integration, and automation for translating satellite data to decision insights is a key component for moving the global industry from simply observing the planet to making informed, impactful decisions at scale. About SatSure SatSure is one of the world's leading Earth Intelligence companies, delivering analytics-ready data products that enable contextual, industry-specific solutions at global scale. By combining Earth Observation (EO) Data - satellite imagery, LiDAR and aerial imagery with advanced technology - remote sensing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, we go beyond raw data to deliver decision intelligence--actionable insights that solve real-world challenges across sectors. With capabilities spanning both downstream analytics and upstream satellite infrastructure through its wholly-owned subsidiary KaleidEO, which is building optical, multi-spectral, high resolution payloads, SatSure delivers end-to-end EO solutions that are scalable, accessible, and operationally meaningful. About Pixxel Pixxel is a space data company and spacecraft manufacturer redefining Earth observation with hyperspectral imaging. With the successful launch of its first three commercial hyperspectral satellites, Fireflies, Pixxel is building a constellation of 18-24 satellites designed for a daily revisit frequency anywhere on Earth. This constellation will deliver the world's highest-resolution hyperspectral imagery, enabling industries to detect, monitor, and predict critical global phenomena across agriculture, oil and gas, mining, environment, and other sectors with 50x richer detail than conventional satellites. About Dhruva Space Dhruva Space Private Limited is a full-stack Space Engineering solutions provider based in Hyderabad, India. The company is active across Space, Launch, and Ground segments and supports Civilian and Defense clients worldwide. Dhruva Space offers Satellite/s coupled with Earth Station/s and Launch Service/s as an integrated solution or individually as technology solutions to power Space-based applications on Earth and beyond. About PierSight PierSight is creating a persistent and dynamic view of all human activity at sea. This will be powered by a constellation of Synthetic Aperture Radar satellites, which enable precise tracking of each and every marine asset. PierSight's solutions will serve shipping, insurance, Defence, coastguard, oil & gas, and other organizations that rely on maritime intelligence. For media inquiries, please contact:Nidhi Pathak, Sr Marketing Manager - SatSureEmail - nidhi.pathak@satsure.co, Sarvesh KuraneHead of Marketing - KaleidEOEmail - sarvesh@satsure.co Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748813/SatSure_Joins.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2162476/5456262/Satsure_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Three weeks after her doctor told her she would need to restart her chemo pills, Josefina Rosa sat at her work desk and made a wish.

She wished the mayor would name a street sign after her, said Rosa, known around parts of Camden for her work to raise awareness about cancer and other causes through her car club.

Three days later, Camden mayor Victor Carstarphen visited her home on North 33rd Street. He told her it would be named after her, Rosa said.

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I started crying, and crying, the 71-year-old said. That was like a wish come true.

Mayor Victor Carstarphen, right, and Josefina Rosa, left on July 29 2025 at the unveiling of Josefina Rosa Way. Photo provided by the City of Camden.

Josefina Rosa Way was unveiled on July 29.

You might call her devotion to her community while battling cancer the way of Josefina Rosa.

Shes a person of doing good, said Councilman Falio Leyba-Martinez, who nominated Rosa. Anytime we have that in an urban setting where we have people who are going above and beyond to help community members, its something that should be recognized.

Frances Lee, one of Rosas coworkers at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Health Care, said the recognition is well deserved.

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Rosa has been an active member of the community for decades, Lee, 57, said.

In 2006, Rosa ran and served as a Councilwoman At-Large for one year. Since then, Rosa has continued to be a liaison between people in her neighborhood and city officials, Lee said.

As far as needing to have things done, she knows who to call to have things taken care of, said Lee who lives in Pine Hill. I still live in Camden County and I needed a large couch disposed of, and she told me what steps I needed to take to get that done.

Lee has also seen how invaluable Rosas work as a concierge at MD Anderson is to patients, she said.

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As a breast cancer survivor, Rosa can relate to patients, Lee said.

Ive seen her cry with patients. Ive seen her hug patients. Ive seen her give tissues to patients, Lee said.

Outside of work, Rosa fundraises and raises awareness about various issues through her Jeep club, Los Leathers.

Rosa owns a 2012 Black Jeep Wrangler named La Guerrera  Spanish for the warrior. The name is displayed front and center on the windshield of her car alongside a pink breast cancer ribbon.

When she drives her Jeep she flashes the lights that line the top and bottom of the windshield.

Josefina Rosa's 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Photo provided by Josefina Rosa.

On weekends, members of the club gather at Rosa and her husbands house to drive throughout the city, Rosa said. They often play sirens, music and display banners that raise awareness about issues like autism and cancer as they drive, she said.

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We go all over the streets, not just one specific street, and that way everyone sees and everyone enjoys, Rosa said. People like seeing that.

Rosa actively searches for community members in need who the club can fundraise for, she said.

Theyve fundraised for everything from book drives for local schools to community members who have just received a cancer diagnosis, Rosa said.

Gloria Velez, 53, a member of Los Leathers, isnt surprised her friend was honored.

When she told us that the street was going to be named after her, everybody was like, You deserve it. You deserve it because you do a lot for the community, the Pennsauken resident said.

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Now every time Rosa drives her Jeep to work or to go on a run with her club, shes reminded of what she means to Camden.

It made my life, I feel important, Rosa said. Theres times you feel that people dont care about you. But I really felt love, and I saw that there was the love there from everyone.

Its a legacy, Rosa said.

Amira Sweilem may be reached at asweilem@njadvancemedia.com.

Welcome to Mosaic. Follow us on Instagram at @MosaicNJcom and on Facebook at MosaicNJcom and on YouTube at @MosaicNJcom.
A New Jersey councilwoman entered a guilty plea Tuesday to driving while intoxicated after her car struck a utility pole in Gloucester County earlier this year.

Paulsboro Councilwoman Jennifer A. Turner, 68, was driving on South Delaware Street near Broad Street in the borough on Feb. 9 when her vehicle struck the pole around 11:30 p.m., according to borough police.

Turner, who did not require medical attention, was issued citations for driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit to breath testing and careless driving, police said.

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The case was transferred to Monroe Township Municipal Court, where Turner entered a guilty plea to the DWI charge on Tuesday, a court official said. The other two tickets were dismissed.

Turner did not immediately respond to a request to comment.

Under the sentence imposed by Municipal Court Judge John J. Armano Jr., Turner must pay $640 in fines, penalties and costs.

An ignition interlock device will be installed on her car for three months and she must attend a 12-hour Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, the court official said. The resource center is an intervention program that provides screening and education services.

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Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
A man is facing several criminal charges after authorities alleged he was driving on the wrong side of the road at more than 100 mph before a fatal crash.

Brian Baldari, 47, of Brick Township, was charged Wednesday with aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide and assault by auto, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office said in a statement. Prosecutors said the charges are the result of an investigation that found he was driving on the wrong side of the road at 103 mph for about two miles before the crash.

The eight-vehicle crash, which happened on March 7, caused the death of 66-year-old Edwin Borja, of Manchester, and left both Baldari and another driver injured, officials said.

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Lakewood Township Police responded to the crash at the intersection of Route 70 and Airport Road at 5:50 a.m. Officers on the scene determined that Baldari was driving his sedan in the wrong direction on Route 70 east when he struck an SUV head-on, authorities said.

The impact then caused the SUV to hit another six cars before it came to a rest, prosecutors said.

Baldaris car also caught on fire and he became trapped inside. After he was extricated, he was treated at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and later Weill Cornell Medicine Burn Center in New York City, officials said.

Borja was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where he remained until he was pronounced dead 11 days later, authorities said.

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A third driver was treated for injuries at Ocean University Medical Center and later released, officials said.

Baldari turned himself into police on Wednesday. He his now in custody at Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
A Trenton man has lost his appeal challenging charges for bringing ghost gun kits from Pennsylvania into New Jersey, where possessing them is illegal.

Malihki X. Oliver was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to purchasing firearm parts without serial numbers with the intent to manufacture a gun, a second-degree crime under New Jersey law.

This was the first time the New Jersey Appellate Division weighed in on how the states ghost gun law applies to parts purchased legally in another state.

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Authorities said Oliver and a friend legally purchased several ghost gun kits at a Pennsylvania gun show, where such transactions dont require identification or paperwork.

He was pulled over and arrested on July 30, 2022, after returning from a gun show in Trevose, Pennsylvania.

However, once they brought the kits into New Jersey, simply possessing them became a crime.

Ghost guns are firearms assembled from kits or parts lacking serial numbers, making them untraceable and a growing concern for lawmakers and law enforcement.

New Jersey law prohibits possessing or transporting gun parts intended for assembly into unregistered, untraceable firearms.

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The law, enacted in 2018 and strengthened in 2019, makes it a crime for anyone who is not licensed or registered as a firearm manufacturer to buy or obtain unserialized frames, receivers, or kits that can be readily assembled into a working firearm.

Oliver argued that because the purchases were made legally in Pennsylvania, New Jersey had no jurisdiction to prosecute him.

But the appellate court disagreed, ruling that the crime occurred when Oliver brought the kits into New Jersey with the intent to build firearms.

That intent, the court said, gave New Jersey the legal authority to charge him.

Police stopped Olivers car near his Trenton home shortly after the purchases.

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Inside, they found five ghost gun kits, two Glock slides and two extended magazines capable of holding 34 rounds each, according to the court ruling. Neither Oliver nor his companion had a firearms license.

The court also rejected Olivers claim that the state misled the grand jury during the indictment process.

Judges found that prosecutors had properly explained the law and that the evidence supported the charges.

Oliver was represented by attorney John W. Hartmann, who declined to comment on the ruling. The Office of the New Jersey Attorney General prosecuted the case.

New Jerseys ghost guns law is a key tool we use to protect residents from the heartbreaking scourge of gun violence, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said in a statement.

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Ghost guns allow individuals, including criminals and domestic abusers, to access unserialized and untraceable weapons by building them from kits at home, Platkin added.

Our law prevents individuals from engaging in this illegal conduct, and we are proud to defend it and enforce it, the attorney general said. Common-sense firearms regulations have helped us and our law enforcement partners bring New Jersey to record low years of gun violence.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Colleen Murphy may be reached at cmurphy@njadvancemedia.com.
Lauren Semanchik knew exactly who the vandal was when she called police one night in May to report her car had been keyed while parked at work.

No one, other than her coworkers at Long Valley Animal Hospital, knew what kind of car she drove. And no one in the area even knew where she worked, she told Washington Township police in a report obtained by NJ Advance Media.

When police asked her who might have keyed her car, she told them  her ex-boyfriend, Ricardo Santos.

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Three months later, on Aug. 1, Santos followed Semanchik to her Franklin Township home where he shot and killed her and her new boyfriend Tyler Webb.

Santos  a New Jersey State Police lieutenant  later took his own life and was found dead alone in an SUV parked in Piscataway.

Following the 33-year-old womans death, Semanchiks family has said Santos, 45, stalked and harassed her when their relationship ended in September 2024 and her pleas to police went unheeded.

Lauren Semanchik and Tyler Webb at a concert.

The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office has since taken control of the Franklin Township police department  the law enforcement agency where Semanchik lived  suspending the chief and a top sergeant.

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However, the police in Washington Township in Morris County, where the incident with her car occurred, took the complaint and even contacted Santos, according to the report.

Semanchik told the officer this wasnt the first issue she had with Santos and he did not take up their breakup well.

Lauren explained that she has recently been having troubles with an ex-boyfriend, the officer wrote. Ricardo has done number of things that lead her to believe that he could be responsible for this ocurrance.

Police obtained photos of the significant gouges made to the passenger side of her Toyota Tacoma, however no surveillance video was available, they said.

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At Semanchiks request, a responding police officer contacted Santos by phone, who denied all allegations he keyed her car and said he only called Semanchik a few times that day. He was advised to avoid all contact with Semanchik to not escalate the situation further, according to the police report.

When police let Semanchik know of Santos response, she asked for advice.

Lauren explained to me that she has been refraining from reporting the other ongoing issues she has had with Ricardo outside of this jurisdiction and inquired about what she should do next, the responding officer wrote. I advised Lauren that I was unable to provide her with any type of legal advice, but explained to her the process of reporting these separate incidents if she so wished.

The actions of several officers, not including those in the Washington Township police department, has been called into question after the deaths of Semanchik and Webb.

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The Franklin Township police chief and sergeant were put on leave and the Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office took over the department.

Multiple 911 calls were made the night the couple was killed. The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office has said Franklin Township police responded to the calls by sending an officer, who checked the area without locating the source of the gunfire.

Its unclear what Semanchik may have reported to Franklin Township police. Her mother, Jennine, previously told NJ Advance Media that in addition to calling police in Washington Township, Semanchik reached out to the the State Police for assistance.

And she could not get help from anyone, she said.

Victoria Gladstone may be reached at vgladstone@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @TorigNJAM. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- New York Attorney General Letitia James filed suit Wednesday against the parent company of Zelle, a bank transfer app, for "failing to protect its users from massive amounts of fraud," a press release said.

An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General revealed that parent company Early Warning Services designed Zelle without critical safety features, allowing scammers to target users and steal more than $1 billion between 2017 and 2023, the release said.

"No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam," James said in the statement. "I look forward to getting justice for the New Yorkers who suffered because of Zelle's security failures."

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EWS knew from the beginning that key features of the Zelle network made it uniquely susceptible to fraud, and yet it failed to adopt basic safeguards to address these glaring flaws or enforce any meaningful anti-fraud rules on its partner banks, the press release alleged.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau filed a similar suit in December 2024, but it was dropped after the President Donald Trump administration took power.

New York Attorney General Letitia James filed suit Wednesday against the parent company of Zelle, the banking transfer app. The company is partially owned by Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Capital One and Wells Fargo. File Photo (2021) by Jim Ruymen/UPI

James seeks restitution for damages for affected New Yorkers and a court order mandating that Zelle maintain anti-fraud measures.

The app is partially owned by Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Capital One and Wells Fargo, and it was launched in 2017 to compete with other payment apps like Venmo or CashApp, which are not owned by banks.

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James alleges that those banks tasked EWS with hastily launching an electronic payment platform. In their rush to launch, EWS prioritized attracting new users through a simple registration process and quick transfers that left consumers vulnerable to scammers.

James' complaint alleges:

EWS and its partner banks knew for years that fraud was spreading on Zelle and failed to take meaningful action to stop it.

When participating banks got complaints from Zelle users about fraud, EWS allowed banks to report that fraud to EWS long after it happened, which enabled bad actors to scam more consumers.

When Zelle launched, EWS did not require banks to report scams.

When EWS did get reports of fraud, it failed to promptly remove the fraudsters from the Zelle network or require banks to reimburse consumers for scams.

EWS developed basic safeguards to address these issues as early as 2019, but failed to adopt them.

EWS failed to meaningfully enforce even the limited anti-fraud rules that it did have in place against banks despite knowing of widespread violations of those rules.

In one example James' department explained, a New York user received a call from someone impersonating a Con Edison employee saying that the consumer was delinquent on his energy bills and that his "electricity was going to be shut off that day" unless he paid Con Edison via Zelle. The fraudster identified "Coned Billing" as the name associated with the account. The consumer transferred $1,476.89 to a Zelle account named "Coned Billing," but after realizing the call was a scam, was told by their bank, JPMorgan Chase, that the bank "can't get [him] that money back."
The following items were taken from Naperville police reports and news releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt:

A 22-year-old man from Naperville was arrested on charges of driving too fast for conditions and driving under the influence of alcohol at 2:54 a.m. Aug. 3 in the 500 block of South Main Street.

A 20-year-old woman from Montgomery was arrested on three counts of attempted aggravated battery at 10:31 p.m. Aug. 3 in the 800 block of South Washington Street.

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A 20-year-old man from Montgomery was arrested on charges of speeding 35 miles over the posted limit, street racing, improper display of license plates or registration stickers, possession of cannabis, and possession of cannabis paraphernalia at 12:04 a.m. Aug. 4 at Washington Street and Hobson Road.

A 37-year-old man from Naperville was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and transportation or possession of open alcohol by a driver at 1:51 a.m. Aug. 4 in the 700 block of North Route 59.

A 44-year-old woman from Chicago was arrested on two warrants at 10:08 a.m. Aug. 5 in the 1800 block of North Naper Boulevard.

A 39-year-old man from Naperville was arrested on a warrant at 12:45 p.m. Aug. 5 at West 87th Street and Modaff Road.

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A 34-year-old man from Buford, Georgia, was arrested on a charge of possession of a stolen motor vehicle at 8:36 p.m. Aug. 5 in the 1200 block of Lily Cache Lane in Bolingbrook.

A 31-year-old man from Westmont was arrested on a charge of criminal trespass to vehicles at 9:47 p.m. Aug. 5 at West Ogden Avenue and Benedetti Drive.

A 30-year-old man from Bolingbrook was arrested on charges of attempted criminal trespass to vehicles and unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver at 9:48 p.m. Aug. 5 at West Ogden Avenue and Benedetti Drive
Nassau County Sheriffs Office Deputy Arielle Hester has been fired and arrested after being accused of falsifying timesheets and receiving unearned pay.

Hester is accused of reporting hours she did not work in 2024 and 2025, resulting in $4,478.63 in unearned pay. She faces charges of theft and falsifying official records.

The Sheriffs Office revealed that Hesters actions involved submitting false timesheets over the course of two years. This misconduct led to her termination and subsequent arrest.

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Five other Nassau deputies were fired and arrested last month for similar timecard issues. These deputies allegedly claimed hours worked while simultaneously holding second jobs.

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National Guard troops have started showing up in the nations capital after President Trump activated them to patrol Washingtons streets, arguing that crime has gotten out of control.

The District of Columbia Army National Guard began patrolling the streets Tuesday, and a group of service members met with Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll. Several Guard forces and Humvees were seen near the Washington Monument on the National Mall, an area of the city generally seen as safe.

The speed at which the troops are making it in is happening quicker. As we get enough soldiers in, they are tasked to help civilian law enforcement, a defense official told The Hills sister network NewsNation. As soon as tonight youll see soldiers out.

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Around 800 total National Guard members will work in shifts of about 200 each. The locations were drawn out by the police task force, another defense official told NewsNation.

Trump announced Monday at the White House that the Justice Department would take over oversight of the Metropolitan Police Department, declaring a crime emergency in the nations capital under the citys Home Rule Act.

The order has sparked pushback from other mayors, national Democrats and activists. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) used the federal takeover as a platform to again call for the Districts statehood on Tuesday.

We have seen a precipitous lessening of crime in the city, violent crime, especially after a post-COVID spike that we acknowledge, and we got after, and we drove down the numbers in 2023. We reported last year the lowest level of violent crime in 30 years, she said on The Breakfast Club radio show. So, were not taking our foot off the gas.

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Others have stuck behind the president, including his former Attorney General Bill Barr.

I think the presidents right on the money, and I think Judge Pirro laid out the case very well, and Im glad shes there, because she has the right idea of what needs to be done in this town, Barr said on Fox Newss America Reports, while referring to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro.

The White House said that 23 people were arrested by federal officials Monday night for a wide variety of charges ranging from homicide and stalking to reckless driving and drug dealing, among others.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 National Guard troops have begun appearing on the streets of Washington DC, a day after President Donald Trump deployed the troops to the city and took control of its police force as he argued violent crime was out of control.

Armoured vehicles were spotted at urban centres and tourist sites around the US capital on Tuesday evening.

Officials have said that 800 National Guard troops are expected to be deployed, as well as 500 federal law enforcement agents.

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Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, who has denied crime is out of control in her city, described the troop deployment as an "authoritarian push".

Trump, a Republican, has also threatened similar deployments against New York and Chicago, two other cities controlled by Democrats.

He has said crime is on the rise in the cities including in Washington DC, although analysis by BBC Verify suggests a different trend in DC.

Violent offences fell after peaking in 2023, and in 2024, they hit their lowest level in 30 years, according to figures published by Washington DC's Metropolitan Police (MPDC).

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They are continuing to fall, according to preliminary data for 2025.

Violent crime overall is down 26% this year compared to the same point in 2024, and robbery is down 28%, according to the MPDC.

The camouflaged troops have been trickling into the US capital since Trump's announcement on Monday.

They have been seen erecting barricades outside several government buildings, and taking photos with tourists.

Twenty-three people were arrested by federal agents on Monday night, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The agents are aiding local law enforcement.

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She said the arrests were for homicide, gun offences, drug dealing, lewd acts, stalking, reckless driving, and other crimes.

"This is only the beginning," said Leavitt.

"Over the course of the next month, the Trump administration will relentlessly pursue and arrest every violent criminal in the District who breaks the law, undermines public safety, and endangers law-abiding Americans."

[Getty Images]

FBI Director Kash Patel later said FBI agents were involved in around half of those arrests.

On Wednesday, Patel said 43 arrests had been made as of Wednesday morning.

US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro warned on X that anyone who assaults an officer will be prosecuted.

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In a video she posted to the platform, she said an individual who had thrown a Subway sandwich at a police officer was facing a serious charge.

"This guy thought it was funny - well, he doesn't think it's funny today, because we charged him with a felony," she said.

Both the mayor of Washington and the city's police chief said earlier in the day they shared the same goal as the federal agents.

"What I'm focused on is the federal surge and how to make the most of the federal officers that we have," Bowser said after a meeting on Tuesday with US Attorney General Pam Bondi.

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Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith said: "We know that we have to get illegal guns off of our streets, and if we have this influx of enhanced presence, we know that it's going to make our city even better."

But at a town hall on Tuesday night, the mayor sharpened her criticism of Trump.

Bowser called on community members to "protect our city, to protect our autonomy, to protect our home rule and get to the other side of this guy and make sure we elect a Democratic House so that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push", according to the New York Times.

[Getty Images]

It comes as a manhunt was launched for an armed assailant who killed a man on Monday night in Logan Circle, one of Washington DC's trendiest neighbourhoods, just a mile from the White House.

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It was the 100th homicide recorded in Washington DC this year, according to local media.

Police say the suspect was last seen wearing a black shirt and carrying a rifle.

The shooting prompted US Secret Service to bolster security outside the president's home as a precaution.

Despite crime figures showing a decrease in violent offences, DC Police Union chairman Gregg Pemberton has said the city police department is "deliberately falsifying crime data, creating a false narrative of reduced crime while communities suffer".

FBI data has also indicated a drop in crime in Washington DC last year - a more modest decrease of 9%.

Studies suggest the capital's homicide rate is higher than average compared with other major US cities.
VMPL New Delhi [India], August 13: In a significant milestone, Learning Routes, the leading edtech company in India, marked its glorious 9th anniversary on July 1 with a grand celebration bringing together the entire LR family. The day was filled with fun games and a get-together to celebrate the company's growing footprint. To mark this landmark, Learning Routes also announced the opening of its new branch in Noida, pointing towards a strategic expansion of its reach in northern India. The inauguration of the new Noida branch was held on the eve of the 9th anniversary. It is located in Sector 62, the heart of Noida's educational and IT centre. The new branch is a collaborative hub for students, counsellors and university partners. It has a sleek design with 100+ workstations and expected to create over 100 new job opportunities in the region. The company started with a small dream of the founders to make quality education accessible to everyone. Today, it has blossomed into a growing family of students, counsellors and top universities in India. Having grown from a group of colleagues who had a vision to create something big in the education sector. The company currently operates in Gurugram, Mumbai, Bangalore, Noida, and Delhi. In the past 9 years, the company has made a significant impact on India's online education landscape. Continuously moving towards tech advancements, the company introduced the AI enabled college finder and college comparison tool last year to enhance the college selection experience for students. This new feature has enabled students to take charge of their educational journey and personalised the experience for them. The grand celebration for the 9th anniversary of the company was a vibrant show of achievement, culture and community. It marked the high student satisfaction rating for counselling and post-enrolment services. The organisation has partnered with top UGC-DEB entitled universities in India, like Amity Online, Online Manipal, Jain Online, UPES Online, Uttaranchal University Online, and IMT CDL, among others. The experienced counsellors of the organisation assist students in choosing the right course in the right college. Among the most popular ones are online MBA, BBA, BCA, MCA, executive programmes, and certifications. The organisation makes sure that students enrol online in UGC recognised universities. Not just students, in the past nine years, Learning Routes has offered a platform for all its employees to grow and rise in their spheres. In the years ahead, the company plans to expand its range of courses, forge partnerships with more universities and upgrade the college finding process to achieve the goal of "education for all". Learning Routes was established in 2016 and has grown into a leading edtech platform in India. Its roots are now in five different cities in India, with its headquarters at Plat No. 121, Sector 44, Gurugram, Haryana. With this milestone of completing 9 years of growth and excellence, the organisation has already geared up for more opportunities to help students reach their goals. (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)
National Guard troops arrive in Washington, D.C., as Mayor Muriel Bowser strikes a critical tone about Trump. Young men with bachelors degrees have a tougher time landing a job after college. And a 122-year-old garment companys Made in America identity is a point of pride  amid slimmer profit margins.

Heres what to know today.

Trumps National Guard deployment a test for D.C. Mayor Bowser

President Donald Trumps plan to address crime in the nations capital moved forward yesterday with the arrival of National Guard troops to the D.C. Armory to report for duty and assist with local law enforcement.

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The mobilization officially marks the beginning of their deployment, and all 800 soldiers ordered by Trump to the city should be operational by the end of the week, a senior Army official said. A defense official said guard members will specifically be engaged in crowd management, perimeter control, security and communications support for law enforcement.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser struck a critical tone about Trump in remarks to community leaders last night, characterizing his actions as an authoritarian push. But on the whole, her response to the mobilization has been far more measured than those of Democrats, both in the D.C. area and nationally, who have repeatedly and forcefully hammered the Trump administration, reporters Jonathan Allen and Megan Lebowitz write in an analysis.

This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your day. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.

Earlier this week, Bowser pointed out that the city and federal agencies have a long history of working together for special events in the city. She also struck a neutral tone after a meeting yesterday with Attorney General Pam Bondi, saying she was focused on how to make the most of the additional officer support that we have.

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Bowsers reaction to Trump might have something to do with the law, federal money and a long-standing threat to repeal self-government in the city being lined up behind him, giving the mayor little choice but to comply. And shes at a disadvantage as her administration fights to get Congress and Trump to reverse course on a law enacted this year that froze $1 billion in city money.

What happens next is being watched closely by municipal leaders across the country, said Justin Bibb, the mayor of Cleveland and president of the Democratic Mayors Association.

Read the full analysis here.

More coverage of Trumps D.C. takeover:

Black civil rights leaders and mayors of several cities said Trumps move is fundamentally grandstanding. And by suggesting that other cities run by Black mayors may be next, Trump was playing the worst game of racially divisive politics, one mayor said.

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Trump said we will give you places to stay in urging homeless people to leave D.C. But when pressed on where these people would go, the Trump administration suggested existing shelters or jail.

Redistricting: the unlikely issue at the center of Democratic politics

Redistricting was once an issue that made voters eyes glaze over. Not anymore. The ongoing standoff between Republicans and Democrats in Texas, as the GOP moves to redraw district maps mid-decade (rather after the new census in 2030) and Democrats seek to stop them, has put the issue in the burning hot center of Democratic politics. And potential 2028 White House candidates are inserting themselves into the fight.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker  whose state is hosting many Democratic lawmakers who left the Texas to deny a quorum in the state House  is taking on the role of protector-in-chief and has vowed to stand in the way of Trump and Texas officials who authorized civil arrest warrants. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has threatened to pursue a redraw of his states congressional maps if Republicans move forward with their plans in Texas. And other governors, including Colorados Jared Polis, Marylands Wes Moore and Hawaiis Josh Green, recently spoke about the issue at a National Governors Association Meeting.

Any Democrats hoping to draw attention on the national stage must show the base they know how to take off the gloves, says one leader at a progressive grassroots group. Read the full story here.

More politics news:

Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, a White House official said.

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The White House is reviewing the Smithsonians museum exhibitions, materials and operations  and plans to commemorate the countrys 250th anniversary  to ensure it aligns with Trumps views of history.

The national debt surpassed $37 trillion, years sooner than pre-pandemic projections.

College-educated young men struggle in a slowing job market

With hiring by employers slowing and fewer jobs than anticipated being added to the economy, one group of workers is finding it difficult to get their foot in the job market: young men with bachelors degrees. An NBC News analysis found that they are slightly likelier to be unemployed than young men with just high school diplomas. Data also shows the unemployment rate for young men with bachelors degrees is 6%, compared to 3.5% for young women with the same level of education.

This shift in employment prospects for young men is tied partly to the changing dynamics of the labor market. For one, much of the job growth in the U.S. has been driven by the health care and social services industry, in which 80% of workers are female. At the same time, the tech industry has been hit particularly hard by recent layoffs, and a Bureau of Labor Statistics report showed 11,000 manufacturing jobs were lost last month.

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For young men such as Emanuel Barcenas, a 25-year-old with a computer science degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology, the search for a job has been a long, frustrating process. Despite having applied for more than 900 jobs, Barcenas has only gotten a handful of interviews. Im trying my best, but I guess my best isnt good enough, he said. Read the full story here.

Read All About It

The man suspected of gunning down three people outside a Target store in Austin, Texas, was identified as a 32-year-old man who police found naked, holding a Bible and claiming to be Jesus.

Medicare enrollees who buy the optional Part D drug benefit may see substantial premium price hikes next year.

Frozen out of the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, European leaders including Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy are to push the U.S. president in a virtual call on Wednesday over growing alarm there could be a disastrous agreement for Kyiv.

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Is War of the Worlds the worst movie of 2025? Some think the movies tagline, Its worse than you think, pretty much sums things up.

Fake German heiress Anna Delvey Sorokin was accused of dumping pet rabbits in a Brooklyn park after a photoshoot, and now she said she has received hundreds of death threats.

Staff Pick: Denim-makers Made in the USA identity is a point of pride

Americans spend over $500 billion on clothing a year, but only 2.5% of it is made in the U.S. That number got me wondering: In a time when global sourcing is cheaper and easier than ever, why would a brand choose domestic manufacturing? What does it take to survive? And what could that say about the prospects for reshoring apparel manufacturing?

Thats when I discovered Round House, a 122-year-old garment maker still sewing jeans in Oklahoma. Their jeans are priced at $70 a pair, more affordable than most Made in America brands, and the company pays their employees above-market wages. It survives not by cutting corners or maximizing profit, but through a devotion to heritage, a commitment to community and a stomach for razor-thin margins. A foreign-made arm of the business also helps keep the lights on.

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In many ways, the company fits Trumps America First vision, but their story proves just how tough it is to produce clothing domestically.  Jing Feng, business and economy producer

NBC Select: Online Shopping, Simplified

One simple piece of advice to follow when trying to keep your dog cool: If its too hot for you, its too hot for your dog. Heres how to keep them from overheating, according to vets. The NBC Select team also found over 30 college dorm essentials for a comfortable yet organized room, right in time for back-to-school preparations.

Sign up to The Selection newsletter for hands-on product reviews, expert shopping tips and a look at the best deals and sales each week.

Thanks for reading todays Morning Rundown. Todays newsletter was curated for you by Elizabeth Robinson. If youre a fan, please send a link to your family and friends. They can sign up here.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
National Guard troops were spotted in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday amid President Donald Trump's crackdown on crime in the capital.

On Tuesday, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser met with federal officials to discuss coordination and strategy for the federal law enforcement presence.

"What Im focused on is the federal surge and how to make the most of the additional officer support that we have," she told reporters, Fox D.c. reported. "We have the best in the business in MPD Chief Pamela Smith to lead that effort and to make sure that the men and women who are coming from federal law enforcement are being well-used and that if theres National Guard here theyre being well-used."

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I Support Trump Taking Control Of Dc Police  The Constitution Is On His Side

National Guard vehicles seen stationed in Washington D.C., on Tuesday amid the Trump administration's surge to combat crime in the capital.

National Guard troops were seen leaving the D.C. Armory on Tuesday morning. Video footage captured military vehicles stationed on a street as pedestrians walked by. It wasn't immediately clear how many troops were in the city or what role they would play.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House and the District of Columbia National Guard.

Read On The Fox News App

The presence of troops and federal law enforcement came amid the Trump administration's plan to combat crime in the city.

The District of Columbia's Home Rule Act allows Trump to place the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control for up to 30 days. Trump invoked the law on Monday.

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Ag Pam Bondi Meets With Dc Mayor As Trump Dispatches National Guard Troops In Capital

National Guard troops seen next to a Metropolitan Police car.

On the first day of the crackdown, federal and local authorities made 23 arrests, including suspects wanted for murder, gun offenses and other crimes.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said some of those arrested had charges for homicide, weapons violations, lewd acts, and stalking. Six illegal firearms were also seized, she added.

"These are just a few examples  we are just getting started. Federal partners joined local police and arrested 23 in total," FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X. "When you let good cops be cops they can clean up our streets and do it fast. More to come. Your nations Capital WILL be safe again."

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Regarding Trump's authority, Bowser said her hands were tied, leaving her administration with no choice but to comply and adapt.





Original article source: National Guard troops spotted in Washington DC as Trump launches crackdown on street crime
Members of the District of Columbia National Guard began their first night of operations in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday as part of President Donald Trumps anti-crime crackdown in the nations capital.

Troops were seen leaving the D.C. Armory earlier Tuesday and by the evening a group of about a dozen Guard personnel stood with five parked military Humvee trucks near the Washington Monument before later departing for an unknown location.

We just did a presence patrol to be amongst the people, to be seen, Master Sgt. Cory Boroff, one of the Guard troops near the Monument, told The New York Times. Of the people, for the people in D.C., he added.

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Officials have not disclosed the exact number of troops deployed to the streets on Tuesday as part of the presidents decision, announced on Monday, to call 800 Guard personnel to the capital to fight what he has described as rampant violent crime in Washington.

Homicide and property crime figures are down compared with the same period in 2024, according to municipal data, with violent crime at a 30-year low following a spike in 2023.

National Guard troops officially began carrying out operations in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday evening as part of the White Houses anti-crime crackdown in the nations capital, massing at the Washington Monument before driving away (Getty)

The Independent has contacted the D.C. Guard and the White House for comment on the nature and extent of their operations so far.

More troops are expected to continue arriving throughout the week.

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Among the 800 called to Washington, between 100 and 200 will serve supporting law enforcement the Defense Department said in a statement on Monday.

The troops have been activated under Title 32, which allows them to make arrests and avoid running afoul of the general prohibition on the military being involved in domestic law enforcement.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the troops would not be involved in arrests.

Military says the National Guard has the authority to make arrests but will not be involved in law enforcement functions during Washington operation (Getty)

"Under Title 32, which is the authorization they'll be using, they have broad latitude. he told Fox News on Monday. But they're not going to be involved in law enforcement functions."

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The deployment is expected to last through September 25, according to a memo obtained by independent journalist Ken Klippenstein.

The troops join an even larger contingent of federal and federalized law enforcement sweeping the capital as part of what the administration is calling the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force.

The task force involves some 500 federal agents from agencies including the FBI, DEA, and Park Police, as well as hundreds more Washington, D.C. police officers the administration has put under federal control for the next 30 days under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.

800 National Guard troops called to Washington join force of hundreds of federal agents and federalized D.C. police taking part in the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force (Getty)

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the combined force numbered 850 people on the streets on Monday night.

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The agents and officers arrested 23 people overnight Monday, for charges including homicide, drunk driving, gun, drug crimes and subway fare evasion.

FBI Director Kash Patel said on X on Tuesday that the FBI was involved in nearly half of the Monday arrests, including arrests for unlawful gun possession, outstanding DUI warrants, and a violation of a restraining order.

The president has threatened to bring similar National Guard deployments to other Democrat-led cities.

This will go further, he said announcing his Washington operation on Monday, naming other large Democrat-led cities such as New York, Oakland, and Baltimore.

The Trump administration has said other cities could face similar Guard operations but the president lacks clear legal routes to justifying one (Reuters)

But Trump has few clear legal routes to doing so.

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To send the Guard to Los Angeles over the summer, the administration used a provision for times of rebellion, invasion, or a breakdown in federal law enforcement, which the White House said had occurred amid protests against immigration raids.

The Trump administrations Washington operation has benefited from the presidents special authorities over the non-state District of Columbia.

Democratic leaders on Trumps punch list have said they will challenge any attempt to send in the Guard, just as California is doing in federal court.

Trump has absolutely no right and no legal ability to send troops into the city of Chicago, and so I reject that notion, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said on Tuesday.

Youve seen that he doesnt follow the law. I have talked about the fact that the Nazis in Germany in the 30s tore down a constitutional republic in just 53 days, he added. It does not take much, frankly, and we have a president who seems hell-bent on doing just that.
Opinion. Last Wednesday, we observed the 60th anniversary of when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law on Aug. 6, 1965.

This federal law made several discriminatory practices illegal to protect the voting rights of racial and language minorities, particularly African Americans and Native Americans, who previously faced barriers to voting such as literacy tests and poll taxes.

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.

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While Native Americans had technically gained U.S. citizenship (and thus the right to vote) in 1924 through the Indian Citizenship Act, many Native Americans could not vote because of barriers imposed by state and local governments.

When the Voting Rights Act was enacted, it faced tremendous resistance from white Southern Democrats  the so-called Dixiecrats  who for decades had put those barriers in place.

Sixty years later, efforts continue to silence the votes of Native Americans, African Americans and Hispanics.

Consider whats happening in Texas where Gov. Greg Abbott has called a special session of the Texas Legislature. The regular session ended on June 2, 2025 and, at the behest of President Donald Trump, Abbott called lawmakers back to redraw the states congressional districts before the 2026 midterm elections.

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The proposed draft maps split Black and Hispanic communities across multiple districts, preventing them from forming a majority and electing candidates of their choice. In other areas, minority voters are packed into a few districts, reducing their influence elsewhere.

The proposed maps split Black and Hispanic communities across multiple districts, preventing them from forming a majority and electing candidates of their choice. In other areas, minority voters are packed into a few districts, reducing their influence elsewhere.

The maps also ignore the reality that Texas' population growth has come from increases in Black and Hispanic populations in the state. The redistricting plan would create five new majority white congressional districts, instead of reflecting the actual growth of the state.

The redistricting plan has been endorsed by President Donald Trump who fears the loss of Republican control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections. Abbott and other Texas Republican leaders are working hard to make it happen.

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This prompted Texas Democratic state representatives to flee the state to stop the Texas Legislature from having a quorum to move the legislation forward. Abbott has ordered the arrest of the Democratic lawmakers, and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is attempting to remove the Democratic lawmakers from their positions.

Americans must face the reality that what is happening in Texas is a blatant attempt to limit the ability of minority residents of the state to have true representation.

This gerrymandering  manipulating district boundaries for political advantage  diminishes democracy.

On Wednesday, the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) released a statement that sounded the alarm, stating that the Acts passage was monumental and promised a future where the right to vote would be equally protected for all.

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But today, 60 years later, Native American voters are still fighting to access that promise. Across the country, Native communities continue to face voter suppression, racial discrimination, systemic barriers to the ballot box, and, now, a new and alarming threat to their ability to defend their rights at all, the statement reads.

For decades, NARF has led lawsuits to advance the ability for Native Americans to exercise their rights to vote.

NARFs statement cites a current case: Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Michael Howe. In that case, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, the Spirit Lake Tribe, and individual Native voters brought a Section 2 challenge under the Voting Rights Act against North Dakotas legislative map, arguing that it diluted Native voting strength by splitting tribal communities across multiple districtsthereby depriving them of a fair opportunity to elect their preferred representatives.

The federal district court sided with the plaintiffs, finding that North Dakotas legislative map violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act and ordering the state to redraw districts to fairly represent Native voters.

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But the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals then issued a stunning ruling: private individuals and groups  like the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, the Spirit Lake Tribe, and individual Native voters  do not have the right to sue under Section 2. According to the court, only the U.S. Department of Justice may enforce those protections.

The problem today is that the U.S. Department of Justice is part of an administration that opposes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, commonly referred to as DEI. That thinking is part of whats driving the Texas redistricting that will diminish the voting power of those opposed to Trumps policies.

Voting should be considered a right and sacred to all Americans.

During the 2020 Democratic National Convention, then-Congresswoman Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), one of the first Native American women elected to serve in the U.S. Congress, stressed the importance of the Native vote.

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Voting is sacred. My people know that. We were not universally granted the right to vote until 1962, Haaland said.

She is right. Native Americans should have a voice in elections, as we are dual citizens  of this country and our tribal nations.

The Trump administrations attempt to disenfranchise minority voters in Texas is a blatant effort to circumvent the Voting Rights Act of 1965  sixty years later.

For millions of African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanics, its time to fight back against this injustice.

Thayek gde nwendemen - We are all related.

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
At the August 47 quarterly meeting of the Tribal Interior Budget Council (TIBC) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, members of the 25th Navajo Nation Council joined other tribal leaders in voicing strong opposition to proposed flat funding and unfunded priorities in Indian Affairs budgetsmarking the third consecutive year of such pushback.

On August 5, Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Scott Davis and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Director Bryan Mercier informed TIBC that the 2026 House and Senate budget marks would fund Indian Affairs programs at or above 2024 and 2025 levels. However, they noted a significant gap in the presidential request: President Donald Trumps FY2026 proposal calls for $2.7 billion$1.2 billion less than the $3.9 billion provided under the FY2025 Continuing Resolution.

Council Delegate Eugenia Charles-Newton, co-chair of TIBCs Public Safety & Justice Subcommittee, spoke candidly about the chronic underfunding of Indian Country. She emphasized the federal governments trust responsibility to fully support Indian Affairs programs.

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Our budget has never been enough. Your job is to fight for tribes. Our relatives are beaten down by life and called resilient as they struggle to maintain their livelihood, Charles-Newton said. What I want to hear from our federal partners is not that you understand our struggles, but what you are going to do about them.

Charles-Newton also highlighted a proposed $84 million cut to tribal public safety programs in the presidents budget. She stressed that members of the Law and Order Committee have been consistently advocating for increased and mandatory funding to improve tribal law enforcement and justice services.

Current staffing levels on the Navajo Nation remain well below national standards. According to the Tribal Law and Order Act, there should be 2.8 officers per 1,000 residents. On the Navajo Nation, there is just one officer per 917 members.We advocate for mandatory funding specifically for the Office of Justice Services and the 197 tribes that receive law enforcement and criminal investigation funds because of the manpower shortages we face, said Charles-Newton.

The Council also received updates on education funding. Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) Director Tony Dearman and Deputy Director Sharon Pinto reported that funding for the Operation of Indian Education Programs (OIEP) has remained flat at approximately $1.1 billion since FY2023.

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Dearman noted that the BIE serves over 400,000 American Indian and Alaska Native students, from early childhood through higher education. Despite this reach, per-pupil funding stands at $7,500significantly below the national average of $25,000.

As tribal leaders, its our responsibility to make sure our numbers increase, Dearman said. What were seeing in terms of funding is inequity.

Dearman also shared staffing challenges. Since January 20, 2025, the BIE has lost 150 employees under the Deferred Resignation Program and is currently under a hiring freeze, with additional cuts anticipated.

While President Trumps FY2026 request maintains flat funding, the House Interior Bill includes a $104 million increase for OIEP and a $61 million increase for education construction, compared to FY2025 levels.

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In transportation, BIA Division of Transportation Chief LeRoy Gishi stated that funding for the Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) has remained flat since FY2024. However, BIA received an additional $150 million in FY2025 for the program.

Council Delegate Otto Tso, co-chair of the TIBC Transportation Subcommittee, raised concerns about the TTP funding formula and its disproportionate impact on tribes.

We need to educate Congress on the realities of tribal transportation needs so they understand that failing to fund transportation at the maximum threshold means underfunding critical infrastructure that supports all BIA-funded programs, Tso said. We want the federal government to live up to their federal obligation in funding Indian Country, to meet their needs.

These formulas created by Congress are not helping us, Tso added.

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Tribal leaders also expressed frustration over the delayed release of the FY2026 Green Book, a vital resource for planning tribal budgets.

In closing, Assistant Secretary Scott Davis acknowledged the concerns raised and reaffirmed the Departments commitment to tribal nations.

Thank you for your comments and strong voicesthey are important reminders of our role as your trustee, Davis said. I can assure you our staff is working hard every day for Indian Country. We know were not in a good place with the Interior right now but please know we are fighting for you.

Council Delegates Curtis Yanito, Nathan Notah, and Germaine Simonson were also in attendance at the TIBC meeting.

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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
Editors note: This report has been updated to include the date of Capt. Russell A. Herrells dismissal.

The Navy has removed the commanding officer of the Naval Information Force Reserve Readiness Center, or REDCEN, in San Diego, the service announced Tuesday.

Capt. Russell A. Herrell was relieved Tuesday of his duties as REDCEN San Diegos commanding officer by Adm. Greg Emery, commander of Naval Information Force Reserve, or CNIFR, due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command, the Navy said in a brief release. He has been temporarily reassigned to Navy Reserve Center Denver.

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The service, which did not provide additional information surrounding Herrells dismissal, often cites a loss of confidence as a blanket reason when relieving senior leaders.

The Navy maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met, the Navy said.

Herrell reported to REDCEN San Diego in February 2023, according to the release.

Capt. Mark Meade, CNIFR chief of staff, has been temporarily assigned as the centers CO.

REDCEN San Diego is a subordinate command of CNIFR, which is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, according to the Navy. It provides administrative support to attached units.
The Navy has fired Capt. Russell A. Herrell as the commanding officer of the Naval Information Force Reserve Readiness Center in San Diego, the service announced Tuesday.

Rear Adm. Greg Emery, commander of Naval Information Force Reserve, relieved Herrell of his duties on Tuesday due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command, a Navy news release says.

Navy officials did not provide a specific reason why Herrell was fired. All the military branches routinely cite loss of confidence rather than specific reasons when commanding officers and senior enlisted leaders are relieved. The vague term may encompass a wide range of issues from poor on-the-job performance or leadership to bad behavior off duty.

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The Navy maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met, Tuesdays brief news release says.

Herrell has been temporarily reassigned to Navy Reserve Center Denver, Tuesdays news release says. In February 2023, he reported to the San Diego readiness center, which provides administrative support to attached units,

The Naval Information Force Reserve command was formerly known as the Information Dominance Corps Reserve Command, according to a Navy web page on the units, and produces meteorology and oceanography data, information operations, networks, cryptology and signals intelligence.

Information Warfare Officers perform numerous missions to include offensive and defensive cyber operations, analyzing environmental conditions, identifying and targeting advisory assets, and space operations, according to the Navy.

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Capt. Mark Meade has been temporarily assigned as the San Diego readiness centers commanding officer.

Top Stories This Week
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  A former high school classmate of Jermiah Copeland, a Navy sailor in pretrial confinement related to the death of fellow servicemember Angelina Resendiz, detailed reports of his behavior in 2022.

Lauryn Lopez, who attended high school with Copeland in Washington, told 10 On Your Side she reported him to the Oak Harbor Police Department in 2022 for an alleged sexual offense when she was 15.

New information on Norfolk sailors death, name of suspect revealed

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Lopez claimed Copeland, then 17, groped and kissed her despite her asking him to stop.

I was uncomfortable. I didnt really know what to do, Lopez said, recalling the incident. He was groping me, and I was like, No, were not doing anything. I was very confused.

Lopez described her relationship with Copeland as toxic and told police in her report that he had an evil grin. Her mom told her to stay away from him after separate allegations from another female classmate came to light.

Angelina Resendizs mother speaks out after memorial service in Norfolk

The evening of the alleged sexual offense, Lopez was at a family friends house when Copeland was invited into the home by a boy she considers to be her cousin. That person was interviewed by police after Lopezs assault was reported. He noted that she looked uncomfortable while Copeland was around.

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According to Lopez, the Oak Harbor Police Department closed the case, citing insufficient evidence and a lack of witnesses. The decision left her allegations unresolved.

Va. senators demand answers into death of Resendiz

That same year, another high school-aged girl accused Copeland of filming their sexual encounter without her consent, Lopez said. The Island County Prosecutors Office confirmed Copeland entered a diversion agreement for a misdemeanor charge of disclosing intimate images.

The agreement required him to fulfill conditions such as community service or counseling.

They said Copeland did not fulfill the terms of the agreement by the time he had turned 18, meaning prosecutors could have charged him as an adult.

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Navy memo sheds light on timeline of Angelina Resendiz disappearance

Despite this, the prosecutors office opted not to charge Copeland, noting in a statement that military service seemed like a good option for him and that he would be supervised. The office also cited his lack of prior criminal history, as no charges were filed in Lopez or her classmates case.

Lopez learned of Copelands alleged involvement with Angelina Resendiz through a TikTok video shared by a friend.

I was so shocked, Lopez said, reflecting on seeing Copelands image tied to Resendizs death.

Copeland, who was put in pretrial confinement related to the death Navy culinary specialist Angelina Resendiz earlier this summer, had joined the Navy after high school. Lopez believes if authorities had taken the earlier allegations more seriously, Copeland might not have been admitted into the military.

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If they had charged and convicted him, theres a chance he wouldnt have been let into the Navy, Lopez said.

Lopez hopes her story encourages other potential victims of Copeland to come forward.

Stay with WAVY.com for more local news, weather and traffic.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  NBC4 is sending well wishes to morning anchor Monica Day, her husband, Sean, and children Presley and Palmer, on the newest addition to their family, baby Piper.

Day shared the happy news that Piper was born Monday afternoon. Both Day and the familys newest addition are doing well.

Previously, Day revealed her third pregnancy to viewers on NBC4 Today, with both her children taking part in the announcement. Oldest daughter Presley has quickly taken on the role of big sister, while son Palmer has come around to the idea of having a new sibling and is excited to be a big brother.

Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper Monica Day, family welcomes daughter Piper

Piper entered the world at 7 pounds, 8 ounces and just over 20 inches long.

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Day, a fixture in central Ohio homes for nearly 20 years, has shared many milestones with viewers and expressed gratitude for the support and love from the community.

While Day is out on maternity leave for the next 12 weeks, Cierra Johnson will be filling in for her on the NBC4 Today desk.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Eric Davis says its a myth that public schools are broken. In fact, he said, that mindset is their largest challenge.

The Hood-Hargett Breakfast Club, which holds monthly meetups for Charlotte professionals and business leaders, hosted Davis, chair of the North Carolina Board of Education, as the speaker for this months meal on Tuesday. He led a discussion alongside former Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent Peter Gorman.

Gorman and Davis both said there are good things happening in the states public schools, which educate about 85% of North Carolina children. Davis said the good includes North Carolinas early literacy program. But, Davis said problems persist with teacher retention, school funding and rhetoric he says undermines the importance of public education and the work of educators.

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Its the overall climate that weve created by bashing our public schools and blaming our teachers for indoctrination. Thats the biggest issue we face, Davis told the club. Our schools reflect each and every one of us. I dont think theyre broken. I think we can make some improvements like more teachers staying with us, better teacher pay, better facilities. But, mostly respecting and revering those who choose as their life calling to educate our children.

Davis and other board members have previously argued the state legislature does not adequately fund North Carolina public schools but spends hundreds of millions of dollars on private school tuition in the form of school vouchers. After expansion of the program to families of all income levels last year, the state now subsidizes tuition for the majority of private school students in the state, according to an analysis of the latest data from the North Carolina Educational Assistance Authority and the NC Department of Administration.

Proponents of voucher expansion, however, say the move allows families greater choice in their childrens education.

Families are seeing their tax dollars follow their child to the school of their choice, Mike Long, president of Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina, told The News and Observer last week. This helps with paying the balances on tuition costs that so many families struggle to pay.

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The State Board of Education and NC General Assembly have not seen eye-to-eye on the issue in recent years  to put it mildly.

For the past decade, weve had a difficult relationship with the General Assembly, Davis said. Somewhere along the line, somebody decided that its good for our state to discredit and attack our public school system and to not pay our teachers a competitive wage and to send millions of dollars to private schools.

Davis has been on the state board for 10 years after being appointed by former Republican Gov. Pat McCrory in 2015 and reappointed by former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. He previously served on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education.

Federal funding problems

Davis said the recent federal funding uncertainties  including $165 million that was frozen for N.C. schools and later restored last month  have exacerbated funding concerns for districts around the state.

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Im pretty confident that there were enough senators and Republicans in Congress that sent the message over to the White House, You need to turn those funds loose, so they did, Davis said. But, in the process, they created uncertainty and confusion.

If the funds werent released, Davis said it would put 400 teaching jobs and 89 positions at the NC Department of Public Instruction at risk of being cut. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools stood to lose $12.5 million.

For our students to get the education they need, we need to provide our educators certainty, safety and confidence so that they are not worrying about how theyre going to pay their next bill so they can stand in front of our children and provide them the education they need, Davis said. Thats one of the challenges with the current situation in Washington is thats adding to the financial strain that we already feel in North Carolina.

Gorman noted that its not yet clear how the state would disburse federal funds if the Department of Education is eliminated  or who would be responsible for those decisions.

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Does it come directly to the state? Does the state board or state superintendent decide? Does the state legislature engage them and do they do things with that money? Do they trade off for dollars that come in and pull other dollars away? Gorman asked. Theres a great deal of uncertainty right now. So, what were seeing across the nation is school districts are saying were going to hold back on some expenditures because we dont know what is coming.

In the 2025-26 budget, CMS Superintendent Crystal Hill only allocated 65% of the districts expected Title I funding, in anticipation of cuts or delays with a federal Department of Education in flux.

Meanwhile, North Carolina lags behind other states in the Southeast, and most of the country, when it comes to teacher pay and per-student funding. The state ranks 43rd in the nation for average teacher pay, according to the latest data from the National Education Association.

The state board listed raising teacher salaries so North Carolina leads the Southeast in educator compensation, as a goal in its latest five-year strategic plan approved last week. That will, however, require action from the General Assembly, which holds the purse strings.

The new strategic plan also lists raising the four-year high school graduation rate, ACT scores, participation in advanced placement exams and career and technical education courses and the overall enrollment in public schools as markers the state board will use to assess performance in the coming years.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) will shut down its 6-inch wafer business within the next two years and continue to consolidate its 8-inch wafer business as part of a plan to improve efficiency and focus on larger wafer production, according to a report by Focus Taiwan. TSMC confirmed that ending the 6-inch wafer business will not affect its sales forecast for 2025. The company is working closely with clients to help them through the transition, assuring that it will try its best to meet their demand and continue to create value for its business partners and the market. Currently, TSMC operates four 12-inch gigafabs, four 8-inch fabs, and one 6-inch fab in Taiwan. Industry reports suggest the phased-out 6-inch plant may be converted into an advanced integrated circuit (IC) assembly site to meet the booming need for AI technology. The world's largest contract chipmaker said the move aligns with market needs and its long-term development strategy. In an investor conference in mid-July, the firm raised its growth projection for next year to around 30 per cent from an earlier range of 24-26 per cent, pointing to rising global demand for artificial intelligence applications. The company's board, after a two-day meeting that ended Tuesday, approved capital appropriations worth about USD 20.66 billion for long-term capacity plans. These funds will go toward installing advanced technology capacity, packaging facilities, mature and specialty technology lines, as well as building and equipping new fabs. In the same meeting, the board also cleared a plan to issue up to NTD 60 billion (USD 1.998 billion) in unsecured corporate bonds in the local market to finance capacity expansion and green projects. To reduce foreign exchange hedging costs, TSMC will inject up to USD 10 billion into its wholly-owned subsidiary, TSMC Global. The board also approved a NTD 5 cash dividend per share for the second quarter, unchanged from the first quarter. The payout, based on earnings per share of NTD 15.36, comes after TSMC posted a record net profit of NTD 398.27 billion (USD 13.303 billion) in the quarter, driven by strong demand for high-performance computing devices, smartphones, IoT products, and consumer electronics. (ANI)
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP)  A North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University student has a lot to be excited about as she starts her senior year.

Tyra Dennis spent part of her summer interning with International Medical Aid in Mombasa, Kenya.

She says the opportunity gave her even more motivation to become a doctor.

The two-week internship allowed her to shadow physicians at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.

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So busy and packed in the hospitals, even in the clinics, and doctors they dont really have time to just sit there and build relationships with their patients or who theyre seeing, so we as interns  got the opportunity to make those extra connections, those extra steps, and I feel like thats the most important thing, Dennis said.

Standing in the gap included subtle details to help put people at ease like smiling and greeting people and playing games with kids.

While there, Dennis was able to contribute to public health initiatives at clinics focused on reaching Mombasas underserved communities.

We worked on just approaching different health issues, preventative health and preventative measures. Also, we did different clinics such as menstrual health and also hygiene. We taught children how to wash their hands and brush their teeth, she said.

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It was an eye-opening experience.

I saw a lot of mortalities along with the patients. I mention this to say that thats when it stuck with me the most that preventative care is so important. Some of these issues could have been combated earlier on, she said.

As an aspiring pediatric neurologist, Dennis hopes to apply what she learned abroad at home.

Dennis, who is also a first-generation college student, is thankful for the guidance of fellow students and alumni who studied abroad.

She says NC A&T State University has been integral in encouraging her to pursue these opportunities, upholding its commitment to developing global leaders.

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If you actually network with people and you actually show an interest and a passion then youre going to get the support, she said.

Dennis is a child development and family studies major.

After graduation, she plans to attend grad school for a masters in public health and take a gap year before applying to medical school.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
Above video: An inside look at the honor flight from October 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Honor Flight of the Ozarks is spending the day with 81 veterans and the guardians at the nations Capitol to visit the WWII, Korean Conflict, Navy, Air Force, Vietnam, and Iwo Jima memorials, as well as Arlington Cemetery.

Veterans and their guardians arrived at the Springfield-Branson National Airport early Wednesday at 3 a.m. with a 4:40 a.m. takeoff.

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This is the second Honor Flight of the year.

One of the veterans served in the Korean War, while the remaining group served in Vietnam.

Organizers are expecting to return from Washington, D.C., around 7:30 p.m. The airport fire department is planning on welcoming them home with a water cannon salute.

Honor Flight of the Ozarks is encouraging the community to join in on welcoming the veterans home this evening by 7 p.m.

The next Honor Flight will take place in October.

If you have a loved one who would like to take part, you can sign up at honorflightoftheozarks.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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.
BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  Nearly 39,000 students in Berkeley County are back in the classroom.

The Berkeley County School District is the second-largest school district in the Lowcountry, and the fourth-largest in the state. They are also the last local school district to head back to school.

News 2s Octavia Mitchell sat down one-on-one with the districts superintendent, Dr. Anthony Dixon, who talked about security measures, new schools in the works, and program changes.

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Dr. Dixon is in his third year as leader of BCSD, a district that continues to grow. Im excited about the first day, says Dixon. Weve been averaging in the past 900 to 1000, and lately its kind of slowed down a little bit, still about 700 to 800, but we are still growing pretty fast in Berkeley County, he said.

The district has 38,900 students in 48 schools. Thats a lot of students, so thankful for the new schools that are being built  thankful for the penny sales tax referendum that is helping get those new schools together, he said. We also have other plans for construction projects. Were trying to do a land purchase for another school that will be in the Moncks Corner area, and we are also looking in the future, trying to forecast our development, and hopefully planning another high school, or another school to help relieve some of the pressure off of some of our high schools that are growing fast.

The district is currently building two new schools, and major renovations are underway at another. We are building new construction, Bee Tree Elementary and Midtown Middle School, thats in the Nexton community, and Bee Tree is in the Cane Bay community. Then, we are replacing Hanahan Middle School in Hanahan.

Those schools are expected to open in August 2026.

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Berkeley County School District has 5,000 employees, and around three thousand teachers, with a few vacancies.

Were working on our classified non-certified positions, teacher assistants, a few bus drivers, and so we want to make sure we have all of those, and special education teachers, but as far as our general education classroom, we are good, he said.

The starting salary for teachers in BCSD is $56,770. Dixon says, We did an increase of all of our teachers certified positions this year, and so we went past our goal of where our salaries are going to start. We have an aggressive goal of where we want to be, and were working hard to get there.

Safety and security, always top priority. There are school resource officers in every school. They met over the summer for safety training, and the district also has security officers at some schools and improved front entrance systems at all schools.

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Last year, around the end of the year, we started doing weapon screening checks randomly in schools of all students, and that worked out extremely well, so this year we have an aggressive plan to do an increased number of weapon screeners checks that we do in our high schools and middle schools, and thats when we randomly pick a day. We go to the school. We set up our weapon screeners. Every student goes through, and they are all checked.

Dr. Dixon says he is proud of the districts accomplishments.

Looking at our preliminary College and Career Readiness scores, preliminary SC Ready data, and EOC scores, were continuing to see growth, more growth than previous years, so thats always a triumph.

He says BCSD will have an increased focus on data-driven instruction, and they will expand the Early College program to ninth-grade students in partnership with Trident Technical College.

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There are also changes to the alternative school program.Weve done some work with our alternative school programs, and its now Next Step Learning Center, so were remodeling the alternative school program to put some more intentional focus and support and wrap-around services around our students who may need a second chance, or some additional guidance to push them back into our schools and move forward, said Dixon.

Also, more schools will now provide free meals for all students. We expanded that this year to thirty-two schools within our district, so for thirty-two schools, if you go on our website, youll see the schools that are part of the program. Every student within those schools can pick up a lunch and a breakfast at no cost every day of the school year.

Superintendent Dixon says that through a collaborative effort with parents and the community, the districts achievements will continue to grow.

We want to make sure parents and communities know that our decisions are always made with students best interests first, and we are here to partner and to work together to ensure that. Our main goal is to provide a quality education for our students. Continuing to build this One Berkeley community where everyone understands the vision. All of our employees, all of our community members, all of our students. We want to make a positive difference in students lives, and that makes a positive difference in our Berkeley County.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
(The Center Square)  Nearly 400 people from more than 70 different countries became naturalized U.S. citizens Wednesday at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.

The ceremony was the second of its kind at the fairgrounds. Payam Tanaomi, the acting field office director of the St. Louis Field Office for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said the candidates achieved whats needed for citizenship.

It is my privilege to present to the court 392 candidates for United States citizenship from 75 countries, he said. Each has been determined to be a person of good moral character, supportive of our constitution and form of government, as well disposed toward the good order and happiness of the United States.

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Before becoming new citizens, the candidates took an oath to the U.S., renounced all allegiance and fidelity to an foreign power and to take up arms to defend the U.S. if required to do so by law. They also took an oath to defend the U.S. if needed.

Oluseyi Elliott is from Nigeria. He now lives in Sherman, Illinois, and works for the state. He came to the U.S. as a student in 2017. He said hes blessed to be a new U.S. Citizen.

It took me about, maybe I can put a year to it, but the process was, I think it was quite easy, if you do your research, Elliott told The Center Square. I did a lot of reading, a lot of YouTube videos, just to make sure I fill out the forms correctly.

Vigo Etshitshi is from the Congo. He also lived in France. The 21 year old followed his parents and is now a U.S. citizen. He said it took him about seven months to go through the process. He also has a recommendation.

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Honestly, I feel like if they were more straight up with how long the process was going to take, I feel like that would help people know exactly, gauge, like, you know how to plan, Etshitshi told The Center Square. Because  I was kind of left in the dark. I never knew when the time was of the process or anything, I just got emails after a while. So, that's the only thing I'd recommend to change.

Judge Colleen Lawless and Jonathan Hawley, District Judges of the United States District Court, Central District of Illinois, presided over the ceremony in the Orr Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
LAGOS (Reuters) -Nigeria's military has killed 592 armed militia members in the northeastern sate of Borno in the past eight months, after stepping up air strikes in a region hit by years of violence, the air force said.

The results surpassed the operational gains recorded in 2024, Chief of Air Staff Hasan Abubakar said during a visit to Borno Governor Babagana Zulum on Tuesday.

Abubakar said the air force also destroyed more than 200 technical vehicles and 166 logistics hubs in a sweeping offensive against insurgents in the northeast.

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Militants from Boko Haram and its splinter group, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have attacked security forces and civilians in Nigerias northeast, causing widespread displacement and thousands of deaths.

Militia gangs in Borno State have killed at least 2,000 people since 2023, according to Nigeria Watch, a database that monitors lethal conflicts and security in the country.

"This year, our air war is faster, sharper and more surgical," Abubakar said. "We are taking out high-value targets, crippling logistics networks and dismantling cells that threaten peace in the northeast."

Confidence MacHarry, Senior Analyst at research consultancy SBM Intelligence in Lagos, said it was hard to independently verify how effective the air campaign had been.

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"However, the reality on the ground shows that the military's claim of success pales in comparison to gains and successful attacks carried out by the leading Boko Haram factions in Borno since the renewed ISWAP offensive was launched late 2024," he told Reuters.

Abubakar said the operation involved coordinated day-and-night air strikes across key locations in the state, including Gonori, Rann, Dikwa, Damboa, Azir and Mallam Fatori.

He said it was bolstered by A-29 Super Tucano aircraft capable of precision and night missions, Mi-171 helicopters for medical evacuation and logistics, and enhanced surveillance platforms for round-the-clock target tracking.

A newly acquired Mi-35 gunship is expected to further strengthen close-air support for ground forces, Abubakar said.

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He said Nigerian Air Force aircraft flew 798 combat sorties and logged over 1,500 operational flight hours under Operation Hadin Kai, Nigeria's military's counterinsurgency operation in the northeast.

This week, the military said it killed scores of armed gang members in a joint air and ground operation in Zamfara, northwest Nigeria, after more than 400 of them were seen preparing to attack a village in the state.

(Reporting by Ahmed Kingimi, writing by Ben Ezeamalu, editing by Giles Elgood)
NEOSHO, Mo.  Residents concerned about the proposed sale of Neoshos water system had plenty to say to city leaders Tuesday night, during a town hall meeting.

We need to know, we need to do some digging, and we need to know exactly how things are going to play out if and when you do this situation, said Neosho resident, Kevin VanStory.

VanStory was one of many residents who spoke during the meeting.

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Last week, the Neosho City Council unanimously approved the first reading of the proposed sale to Missouri American Water.

It would require the company to pay the city $34 million for their water system and not the water rights. The money would also cover existing debt and address other city needs.

During the public meeting, Mayor Richard Davidson said 13 city workers would be affected by the transaction but would be offered jobs by Missouri American Water to continue maintaining the citys water system.

Many residents though, still have concerns.

Weve had insurance go up 38-percent the last five years, and utilities have gone up, and housing is up, so what else is going to go up? We can only pay so much and luckily, were in good health, so we dont have to worry about that, but yeah, it worries me that rates will going up, said Neosho resident, Chuck Clay.

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What I will say is when weve negotiated with the City of Neosho, what weve agreed to do is whatever rates they have at the time of the sale, we will carry that forward into our next rate case filing with the commission, said Missouri American Water President, Richard Svindland.

The Neosho City Council voted last week to raise the average residential water rate $1.44, from $6.33 to $7.77. The rates take effect October 1.

Council members will vote on a second and third reading of the proposed sale next week.

The deal would then have to be approved by the Missouri Public Service 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 KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
Aug. 12PITTSTON  The Northeast Pa. Quilts of Valor Chapter recently honored military veteran Sharon Griffin in a ceremony at Wesley Village Irene Raeder Center.

Griffin, of West Pittston, enlisted in the United States Army in July 1975. After completing basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, she trained as a Computer Program Analyst at Fort Benjamin Harrison.

She served as a Computer Program Analyst at Fort Bliss, Texas, where she evaluated SCUD and Patriot Missile system prototypes as one of the few women on the Air Defense Board at that time.

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In 1977, at U.S. Army Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany, she created and implemented the Standard Army Civil Payroll System for Department of Defense employees across Europe and Asia.

Her military service earned her two Army Commendation Medals, and she was honorably discharged in June 1978.

QOV chapter leader, Becky Orlowski, said the presentation recognizes Griffin's service and sacrifice.

For more on NEPA QOV Chapter, email  nepaqov@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page at Northeast PA Quilts of Valor.

Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Nepal has waived climbing fees for 97 mountains, officials said on Wednesday, hoping to steer people to its lesser-known peaks and boost local economies.

Climbers pay for permits on Nepali peaks and the fees vary depending on the mountain's height and popularity, with heftier charges for those such as Everest.

The 97 mountains, ranging in height from 5,870 metres (19,300 feet) to 7,132 metres, are located in the western Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.

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"We hope it will bring our hidden treasures in the limelight and diversify the mountains Nepal offers," Himal Gautam, of Nepal's tourism department, told AFP.

It follows a busy spring climbing season in Nepal during which the government issued 1,168 climbing permits.

Over half of those were for peaks above 8,000 metres, including Everest, the tallest in the world at 8,849 metres.

In contrast, others saw little climbing activity and generated minimal revenue from so-called royalty fees.

"These remote areas have immense tourism potential and we hope the local economy can benefit," said Gautam.

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Nima Nuru Sherpa, president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, welcomed the decision but said much more was needed to drive interest in remote mountains.

"Royalty fees alone is not keeping mountaineers (away) from these areas. We need to develop the infrastructure and manpower required for running expeditions there," Sherpa said.

Nepal is home to eight of the world's 10 highest peaks and welcomes hundreds of climbers every year during the spring and autumn climbing seasons.

A boom in climbers has made mountaineering a lucrative business since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa made the first Everest ascent in 1953.

In February, Nepal increased permit fees for Everest from $11,000 to $15,000 starting next spring, hoping it will help tackle pollution and boost safety.

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A federal judge on Wednesday blocked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from sharing vital Medicaid personal data with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has called a vast overreach.

Nessel joined the lawsuit to block the data from being shared, a process that has been preliminarily halted by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

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I am relieved that the Court has recognized that the Trump Administration cannot abandon longstanding policies to personal healthcare data to advance a political agenda, Nessel said in a statement. Medicaid exists to serve the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents, not to provide unrelated agencies access to some of our most sensitive information. I will continue to fight to ensure Michiganders medical data remains protected and confidential.

The court said the two federal agencies did not reasonably show its work when deciding to upend longstanding policy that prohibited the health and human services department from sharing information with homeland security for the purpose of immigration enforcement.

In its order, the court also said the agencies failed to consider a limit on the scope of the data provided, and instead moved forward with a plan to provide all private medical data for millions of Medicaid recipients.

The agencies are barred from sharing the data until the lawsuits conclusion or 14 days after both departments have completed a reasoned decision making process or rulemaking weighing policy tradeoffs and associated legal decisions.

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Iran is facing an intense water crisis, but help could soon come from an unlikely source  provided the "tyrants" are out of power.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a message to the people of Iran just days after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned against excessive water usage, saying the country is on the brink of severe shortages.

The Amir Kabir Dam on the outskirts of Tehran on July 29, 2025. President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday warned that parts of Iran face a "serious" water crisis.

Heres What A Post-ayatollah Iran Could Look Like If War With Israel Leads To Regimes Fall

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Iran has faced electricity, gas and water shortages during peak-demand months due to mismanagement and overconsumption, according to Reuters. The outlet, citing the semi-official Tasnim news agency, reported that severe shortages could hit the country as soon as next month.

"The thirst for water in Iran is only matched by the thirst for freedom," Netanyahu said in a video addressing the people of Iran.

Netanyahu compared the regimes treatment of its citizens to Israels struggle against it, saying, "Your dictators impose tyranny and poverty upon you  just as they impose war on us."

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Netanyahu Calls On Iranian Citizens To Seize 'Opportunity' For Regime Change

While he stopped short of explicitly calling for revolution or regime change, the Israeli leader dangled a clear incentive for Iranians to rise up: remove the regime, and Israel will help end the countrys water crisis.

"So here is the great news: The moment your country is free, Israel's top water experts will flood into every Iranian city bringing cutting-edge technology and know-how. We will help Iran recycle water; we'll help Iran desalinate water."

Iran expert and editor-in-chief of The Foreign Desk Lisa Daftari said Netanyahu's message was "a clear policy signal wrapped in humanitarian aid."

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"He told them that Israel has the technology, the expertise, and the willingness to end their water crisis, but that this help will flow only when Iran is no longer ruled by the current regime. It was a direct link between political change and tangible improvement in daily life, acknowledging the daily struggles of the Iranian people while putting the responsibility and the opportunity squarely in their hands," Daftari told Fox News Digital.

"By tying water to freedom, hes making the idea of resistance more immediate and personal. It is a nod to the commonalities shared by the Israeli and Iranian people who just want to live normal lives away from radicalism," she added.

In June, Israel and Iran fought a 12-day war after Jerusalem acted against Tehrans nuclear program. The U.S. eventually joined, aiding Israel in destroying nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

Iranian flags fly as fire and smoke from an Israeli attack on Sharan Oil depot rise in Tehran, June 15, 2025.

After the war, the Iranian regime intensified its crackdown on civilians. On Tuesday, Reuters reported that Iranian police claimed to have arrested as many as 21,000 people during the conflict. Despite the arrests, there have been no credible reports of mass demonstrations or coup attempts.

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Netanyahu is not the only one criticizing the Iranian regime; exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has also condemned its handling of the nations water supply.

"This regime has driven Irans water, land, air, skies, lives, and wealth to the edge of destruction. Irans rivers are dry, its soil eroding, its ground sinking, its air polluted, its skies in the hands of foreign forces, its economy in free fall, its peoples homes without water or electricity, and their lives held hostage to the sectarian delusions of an anti-Iranian regime and its foolish leader," Pahlavi wrote on X.

In July, Pezeshkian rejected a government proposal to impose a midweek day off or a one-week summer vacation to curb shortages. He said "closing down is a cover-up and not a solution to the water shortage problem," according to Reuters.





Original article source: Netanyahu sends message to people of Iran as country faces water crisis
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When President Donald Trump called a press conference on Aug. 11 to discuss how he would use emergency powers to federalize the D.C. police and deploy the National Guard, the knee-jerk anti-Trump media launched into complaining Trump was doing something dramatic about the crime-riddled District of Columbia.

But the most obnoxious spin was dragging the Jan. 6 riot into it, which they can't help but burp out. CNN anchor Dana Bash lectured: "Just as we go to break, I should note that the most violent moment in recent history in D.C. was January 6th, and it was an attack on the United States Capitol by a lot of people who were doing it in the name of Donald Trump," Bash said. "And it included the people who were hurt  included members of law enforcement."

In a similar vein that night, MSNBC host Lawrence O'Donnell proclaimed: "The biggest crime spree in the history of Washington, D.C., was on January 6th for Donald Trump, and Donald Trump did not send the National Guard that day!"

It's quite obvious that Democrats can reach for the same old hypocrisy hobby horse  President Pro-Police nudged his most fervent supporters into a riot over allegations of a stolen election. But these complaints desperately need one of those "independent fact-checkers."

It's simply false to suggest that Jan. 6 was "the most violent moment in recent history in D.C." This obviously ignores the D.C. riots after George Floyd's death in 2020. It's downright weird to describe it as a "crime spree" when so many of the "rioters" were prosecuted for peacefully entering the Capitol and taking selfies.

This doesn't compare to older examples, like the riots after Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination in 1968, which ended badly: "13 people were dead and more than 900 businesses were damaged," according to Global Investigative Journalism Network.

It's also not accurate to say "Trump did not send the National Guard that day." The D.C. National Guard arrived far too late  five hours after the first breaching of the gates placed around the Capitol. The president expressed a desire to have a serious National Guard presence in the days leading up to the certification of then-President-elect Joe Biden's victory. But Democrats from Mayor Muriel Bowser to then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi didn't want that. Neither did Trump's own Defense Department. Even after the violence began, the Pentagon dragged their feet for hours.

What really makes the Jan. 6 comparison so ridiculous is comparing this allegedly "most violent event" to an annual homicide rate of over 200 people a year. One person was shot dead on Jan. 6, and that's the Capitol Police shooting Ashli Babbitt. None of these liberal journalists ever want to discuss that. It's an example of a police killing they seem to find acceptable by their silence.

In the first 24 hours after Trump's press event, we found that between CNN and MSNBC, they raised the spectre of Jan. 6 a total of 31 times. These people made it plain when Pelosi picked her kangaroo court that they would attempt at all times to excise all memory of the 2020 riots (25 deaths nationwide).

But the decadeslong problem of violent crime in the "Murder Capital" can't be dismissed with the usual MAGA-menace material. It's a failure of Democrat Party governance, and we know our media never want to admit that.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
VMPL New Delhi [India], August 13: India's online shopping world is exploding like never before. Every minute, thousands of people place orders expecting lightning-fast delivery. They want fresh groceries in 2 hours, gadgets by the next morning, clothes in a day or two, and even medicines within an hour. Traditional delivery methods simply can't meet this speed. Smart online sellers have discovered a game-changing solution - "on-demand truck rentals". Rather than purchasing pricey trucks, they get the ideal vehicle they need at a much lower price. Now, this change has enabled small businesses to compete with the business giants by offering quick and economical deliveries all over India. India's Online Shopping Growth Creates New Problems India's e-commerce industry is expanding at a record pace, with annual growth expected to increase 20% in the coming years. Main factors contributing to this growth are: * More people now have smartphones and access to economical internet data * Digital payments like UPI have made online buying quick and secure * People in small towns and villages are also discovering online shopping * Shopping apps and websites keep getting better and more user-friendly At the same time, this massive growth brings several big challenges for sellers: * Customers now expect same-day or next-day delivery as standard service * Festival seasons like Diwali suddenly see 50% more orders than normal days * Flash sales create huge spikes where thousands of orders come in within hours * Sellers must now deliver to remote areas where roads may be difficult * Fixed truck fleets simply can't handle these constant ups and downs in demand Buying your own trucks costs too much money and doesn't work well. During quiet times, trucks sit empty and waste money. When it's busy, you may run short of trucks for all your orders. That's when hiring trucks on rent becomes crucial--it allows you to book enough vehicles during peak demand and avoid unnecessary costs during slow periods. What Are On-Demand Truck Rentals? With on-demand truck rental, you can book a truck instantly using an app or website. No need to buy expensive trucks. You simply rent one for the specific hours or days you need and pay only for that time, saving businesses money. The booking process is designed to be simple and fast: * First, you enter pickup and delivery locations on the app or website * Next, you choose the right truck size based on what you need to transport * Then you get an instant price quote with complete transparency and no hidden costs * After that, you book and pay online through secure payment gateways * During transport, you can track your truck's location in real-time Finally, you receive digital delivery confirmation when the job is completed You can get different truck sizes - from small trucks for packages to big trucks for heavy loads. E-Commerce as the Growth Driver for Truck Rentals Changing online buyer behaviour is driving up demand for truck rental services. Today's shoppers value speed, convenience, and trust more than ever before. These new expectations include: * People now expect groceries, medicines, and other essentials to be delivered within the same day. * Even regular products are expected to reach customers by the very next day. * Fast delivery is demanded even in small towns and remote locations * Real-time tracking updates help customers know exactly when their orders will arrive * Reliable delivery promises are crucial because broken promises lead to lost customers The situation becomes even more challenging during special sales periods: * Diwali and festival sales often double the normal order volumes overnight * Flash sales on major platforms require thousands of deliveries within just a few hours * Weekend sales create sudden demand spikes that catch many sellers unprepared * Back-to-school seasons and holiday periods completely overwhelm standard logistics Fixed truck fleets simply can't handle these changes. On-demand rentals let sellers add trucks only when needed. Benefits of On-Demand Truck Rentals for E-Commerce Sellers On-demand truck rentals provide multiple advantages for eCommerce businesses across different aspects of their business: * Flexible Truck Options - Businesses canhire the number and size of trucks based on your order needs. * Save Big - Avoid paying for truck ownership, repairs, and insurance. * Quick Deliveries - Access vehicles immediately for same-day and next-day shipping. * Clear Visibility - Use GPS tracking, price comparisons, and live updates for better control. * Wider Reach - Deliver to both major cities and remote areas without setting up depots. This model also helps smaller e-commerce businesses compete effectively with larger players by giving them access to professional logistics networks without major financial commitments. How to Book Trucks for Your Online Business The booking process is simple and fast: Step 1: Open the truck booking app or website on your smartphone or laptop. Step 2: Select the location of pickup as well as the delivery destination. Step 3: Select the suitable truck type based on your goods volume and size. Step 4: Get an instant price with no surprises. Step 5: Make the payment and confirm booking. Step 6: Track the truck until delivery is completed. Popular platforms like TruckGuru make this process super easy and fast. Use this app to stay focused on selling rather than worrying about delivery. Role in Last-Mile and Same-Day Delivery The last-mile stage delivers orders to customers, but it can add significant costs. Meeting deadlines keeps customers satisfied and engaged with your brand. For urgent or delicate shipments, on-demand truck rentals ensure a secure and timely arrival. Same-day delivery, which was earlier only for a few items, is now common for groceries, electronics, and even clothes. With quick truck booking, sellers can send orders within hours without wasting money on trucks that are not in use. Technology as the Enabler Digitalisation has transformed on-demand truck rentals into a convenient and efficient service. Main technological features include: * GPS Tracking for real-time monitoring of goods in transit. * Automated Pricing Engines to generate instant, market-linked quotes. * AI-Based Route Optimization to reduce travel time and fuel consumption. * Integrated Communication for status updates via SMS, WhatsApp, or email. These features let businesses stay informed about shipment status, expected delivery, and transportation costs--vital for e-commerce planning. The Future Looks Bright Several trends will make on-demand truck rentals even better: Market Growth: * More people are shopping online * Small towns are getting better internet * New payment methods spreading * Government supporting digital logistics Technology Advances: * Electric trucks for cleaner delivery * AI for better route planning * Drones for very fast delivery * Automated warehouses and trucks Infrastructure Improvements: * Better highways connecting cities * New freight corridors for trucks * Improved GPS and mapping systems * Faster internet in rural areas TruckGuru - Your Logistics Partner TruckGuru is one of the top companies changing truck rentals in India. It has a big network, uses smart technology, and cares about keeping customers happy. It offers: * Thousands of trucks covering over 110 cities. * Instant online booking with transparent pricing. * Real-time tracking and automated updates. * 24/7 customer support to resolve issues quickly. TruckGuru makes delivery easy and gives businesses full control over their transport needs. This helps online sellers of all sizes handle the fast delivery demands of India's growing online shopping market. Ready to Transform Your Delivery? India's online shopping market keeps growing, and delivery speed decides who wins. On-demand truck rentals give you the flexibility to handle any order volume without huge investments. No matter, if you're a small seller just starting out or a big business handling thousands of orders, truck rental services can help you reduce delivery costs, meet customer expectations and scale your business easily. Get Started Today Ready to make your deliveries faster and cheaper? Partner with TruckGuru for instant truck booking, transparent pricing, and reliable service across India. Book your first truck now! Visit www.truckguru.co.in or Call: 72020 45678. Don't let delivery problems slow down your business growth. Join thousands of successful online sellers who trust TruckGuru for their logistics needs. (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)
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A charter school billed as the first K-12 artificial intelligence school in Nevada will not open this year to students after suffering another setback.

Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy still has signage outside of its building located near Carey Avenue and Comstock Drive in North Las Vegas. The school was preparing this week to welcome students, where teachers were planning to use AI to create lesson plans and teach students.

However, less than a month before opening, PTAA pulled the plug after a blow from the state, impacting more than 100 students.

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These items  hiring date and already approved budget  are not legitimate grounds to withhold an audit much less to deny 115 students access to Nevadas only K-12 AI academy, PTAA Board Member Annette Dawson Owens said.

During a State Public Charter School Authority meeting on June 27, several members of PTAA, which includes Rudy Pamintuan, criticized the agencys board.

Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy still has signage outside of its building located near Carey Avenue and Comstock Drive in North Las Vegas. (KLAS) Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy still has signage outside of its building located near Carey Avenue and Comstock Drive in North Las Vegas. (KLAS)

This is not equity, its administrative quicksand and placing childrens future at risk, Pamintuan said.

In a letter posted on its website July 17, PTAA said due to a state-mandated enrollment deadline of June 2, the state directed them not to open.

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Students wouldve received an education focused on science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math. PTAA states that using AI in the classroom would save time in lesson planning and help with engaging students.

In a statement to 8 News Now, the SPCSA said PTAA failed to meet the required pre-opening conditions approved by the SPCSA board and as such they will not be opening. Some of those conditions are regarding enrollment.

SPCSA set a deadline of June 1, however, PTAA staff said they were told the final enrollment tally didnt need to be submitted until three days before a mid-June audit. The auditors never showed up.

We followed every rule that was given, our team worked nights and weekends, triple checked every file and prepared detailed binders, so auditors could quickly confirm compliance. The school was ready, the lights were on, the coffee was brewing, but no one came, Rudy Pamintuan said.

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To illustrate the legal challenges PTAA has faced, the schools parent company filed a lawsuit three years ago against the State Public Charter School Authority accusing them of unlawfully denying them the opportunity to open.

Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy told 8 News Now its working with the City of Henderson to open a school there, and will resubmit an application within 30 days.

As a result of legislation passed in 2023, local governments in Nevada are now authorized to oversee charter schools, including the power to approve, monitor, or shut them down based on performance.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Nevada prison leaders said drug debt appears to be a factor after a recent string of homicides inside two Las Vegas-area prisons. As the 8 News Now Investigators first reported, four inmates were killed in four separate homicides at High Desert State Prison and Southern Desert Correctional Center within the past month.

The Nevada Department of Corrections is consulting outside experts to determine ways to curtail the influx of contraband and illegal substances into the institutions, Director James Dzurenda said.

Prison leaders previously told the 8 News Now Investigators one way illegal substances were getting inside prison facilities is through mail.

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Both High Desert State Prison and Southern Desert Correctional Center, neighboring facilities located near Indian Springs, which is approximately a 45-minute drive north of Las Vegas, are on modified operations, according to the department.

Ryan Anthony Warren-Hunt, 35, died Monday. Documents also listed his name as Anthony Ryan Warren-Hunt. (Department of Corrections) Dmarea Wallace, 18, died from multiple stab wounds on Wednesday, according to the coroners office. (Department of Corrections) Ronnie Owens Jacob Herman, 35, and Jordan Canteberry, 34, were killed 10 days apart inside High Desert State Prison outside of Las Vegas. (Department of Corrections)

The four homicides appeared to be unrelated and in different units, the department said.

The most recent homicide occurred at Southern Desert Correctional Center. Ryan Warren-Hunt, also known as Anthony Warren-Hunt, 35, died Monday. He began serving a 16-75 year prison sentence in April 2020 for burglary with a firearm and multiple armed robberies in Clark County, according to the Nevada Department of Corrections. The Clark County coroners office did not have information immediately available Tuesday. However, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned prison authorities considered his death to be a homicide.

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4 inmates killed in less than 1 month at Las Vegas-area prisons

The other three suspected homicides occurred at High Desert State Prison.

Dmarea Wallace, 18, died from multiple stab wounds on Wednesday, according to the Clark County coroners office. He began serving a three-to-eight-year sentence in December 2023 for robbery, the department said.

Jordan Canteberry, 34, died on July 26 from multiple stab wounds, the coroner determined. Canteberry began serving a 12 to 30-month sentence for robbery and possession of a firearm by an ex-felon in June, according to records. His robbery charge stemmed from a December 2024 robbery, records show. Canteberry agreed to a plea deal in a second case after he was initially charged with three gun charges.

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Sources told the 8 News Now Investigators that inmates tampered with their cell doors to escape their cells before attacking Canteberry.

2 Nevada prison deaths, 10 days apart, now murder investigations

Jacob Herman, 35, died on July 16, according to the department. Herman was serving a 12 to 36-month sentence for larceny from a person. Herman was initially charged with robbery, agreed to a plea deal and received a suspended sentence in Clark County, according to court records. A judge sent him to prison in May 2024 for violating terms of probation, records show.

A fourth inmate at High Desert State Prison, Ronnie Owens, 32, died on Friday. Sources told the 8 News Now Investigators they believed he died by homicide. However, the department is categorizing his death as an overdose. Owens began serving a six-to-29-year sentence in April 2023 for robbery with use of a deadly weapon and possession of stolen property, according to the department. He was convicted in Clark County. His cause and manner of death were pending as of Monday, according to the coroners office.

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High Desert State Prison is a maximum-security prison facility, which transitioned from a medium-security prison last year. Two thousand inmates, including Nevadas death row population, were transferred from Ely State Prison, located nearly 300 miles north of Indian Springs.

FILE  Towers view over the High Desert State Prison in Indian Springs, Nev., April 15, 2015. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

Southern Desert Correctional Center is categorized as a medium-security facility.

Infrastructure problems, including faulty cell door locks and a lack of air conditioning, have been ongoing issues, according to sources.

Critics have questioned the placement of inmates, for example, a more low-level offender being placed with high-level offenders. The department said it is reviewing standard procedures regarding classification of offenders and housing practices.

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Dzurenda said committees, which will be comprised of former offenders, researchers, advocates and IT experts, are being formed to address various issues, and he instructed wardens to address violence and drug abuse inside the prisons.

We cant rely on our traditional operational plans alone, Dzurenda said in a news release. We have to do something thats unique. We need to get creative in bringing in different perspectives and attack this problem from all angles. This is a top priority.



To reach investigative reporter Vanessa Murphy, email vmurphy@8newsnow.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 KLAS.
FILE - California Gov. Gavin Newsom Courtesy of the governor's office

The feud between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Trump administration continues as both parties returned to court Monday for a three-day trial over the deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles in June.

President Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles on June 7 to suppress immigration riots that erupted in the city because of ICE deportations. When riots persisted, the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth deployed 200 Marines to the area on June 13 to guard the Wilshire Federal Building.

In court, the Newsom administration is arguing the National Guard members and Marines deployed to Los Angeles under the orders of Trump and Hegseth illegally engaged with civilian law enforcement, violating the Posse Comitatus Act.

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The Posse Comitatus Act is a federal law prohibiting the use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement activities unless authorized by Congress or exceptions in the Constitution.

The Newsom administrated motioned for preliminary injunction in its supplement brief filed July 30.

The Trump administration however, is arguing Trump had the legal right to deploy the U.S. military because it was for the purpose of supporting immigration law and federal buildings. The Trump administration is further stating engagements between the U.S. military and the Department of Homeland Security and its ICE agency dont count as law enforcement.

The trial is taking place in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The judge is the brother of retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer who was anointed by former president Bill Clinton.

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Two months ago, the federal government deployed military troops to the streets of Los Angeles for the purposes of political theater and public intimidation, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a press release Sunday. This dangerous move has no precedent in American history, erodes trust between the American military and the public, and pulls our servicemembers away from their vital role in fighting wildfires and tackling the fentanyl epidemic.

Newsom called Trump's deployment of U.S. military soldiers to states an "assault on democracy," in a press release on Tuesday.

"His authoritarian orders arent about safety  theyre an attack on the very foundation of our nation and a slap in the face to democracy," Newsom said.

Bonta's office told The Center Square Tuesday that while the trial ends tomorrow, there is no guarantee the judge will issue a ruling.

The Department of Homeland Security declined to comment.
Finally someone is communicating with President Donald Trump in a language he can understand.

On Tuesday night, Gov.Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) informed the president that California is going to go ahead and redraw the states electoral maps after Trump missed a deadline amid the ongoing redistricting battle. The Democratic governor also decided to deliver his message in the funniest way possible  by writing in the same style that Trump writes his social media posts.

Related: Wall Street Journal Gives Trump A Stern Warning

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! Newsoms office wrote in a pinned post on his X account. CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!).

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The message continued, BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GN.

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!). BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

Not only does the language itself mock Trump, but the decision to open the announcement by calling Trump TACO  an acronymcoined by Wall Street that stands for Trump Always Chickens Out and that Trump hates  was a great way of needling the president enough that he might actually read the message. The snarky insinuation that Newsom is Trumps favorite governor was a nice touch as well.

Although Newsoms announcement is funny, the GOPs shady redistricting efforts are anything but.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump. Getty

Last week, several Democratic members of the Texas House fled the state to avoid a vote on a redrawn congressional map that Trump wants, and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) is more than happy to shove Trumps request down lawmakers throats. Political maps are typically redraw every 10 years, and Texas mid-decade redistricting effort has been viewed by Democrats as a shameless gerrymandering scheme that would flip five seats currently held by Democrats from blue to red. The move will essentially help secure Republicans control in the U.S. House after the midterm elections in 2026.

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Ever since the Dems in Texas fled, there has been an effort on the left to even the score, with Newsom and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) saying theyd be game to change their states political maps if Texas does.

In a threatening letter to Trumpon Monday, Newsom said hed happily stand down if Texas doesnt go through with this BS. Newsom followed up his warning with another post on X that Trump can better understand.

DONALD TRUMP, THE LOWEST POLLING PRESIDENT IN RECENT HISTORY, the post began. THIS IS YOUR SECOND-TO-LAST WARNING!!! (THE NEXT ONE IS THE LAST ONE!). STAND DOWN NOW OR CALIFORNIA WILL COUNTER-STRIKE (LEGALLY!) TO DESTROY YOUR ILLEGAL CROOKED MAPS IN RED STATES. PRESS CONFERENCE COMING  HOSTED BY AMERICAS FAVORITE GOVERNOR, GAVIN NEWSOM. FINAL WARNING NEXT. YOU WONT LIKE IT!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.

DONALD TRUMP, THE LOWEST POLLING PRESIDENT IN RECENT HISTORY, THIS IS YOUR SECOND-TO-LAST WARNING!!! (THE NEXT ONE IS THE LAST ONE!). STAND DOWN NOW OR CALIFORNIA WILL COUNTER-STRIKE (LEGALLY!) TO DESTROY YOUR ILLEGAL CROOKED MAPS IN RED STATES. PRESS CONFERENCE COMING  HOSTED  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

Newsom followed that up with another Trump-friendly message on Tuesday.

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FINAL WARNING DONALD TRUMP  MAYBE THE MOST IMPORTANT WARNING IN HISTORY! the post began. STOP CHEATING OR CALIFORNIA WILL REDRAW THE MAPS. AND GUESS WHO WILL ANNOUNCE IT THIS WEEK?

It continued,GAVIN NEWSOM (MANY SAY THE MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR) AND A VERY POWERFUL TEAM. DONT MAKE US DO IT!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.

FINAL WARNING DONALD TRUMP  MAYBE THE MOST IMPORTANT WARNING IN HISTORY! STOP CHEATING OR CALIFORNIA WILL REDRAW THE MAPS. AND GUESS WHO WILL ANNOUNCE IT THIS WEEK? GAVIN NEWSOM (MANY SAY THE MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR) AND A VERY POWERFUL TEAM. DONT MAKE US DO IT!!! THANK  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

But on Tuesday, Texas went ahead with a vote and passed their redrawn maps in a special session, prompting most of Texas Democrats who remained in the state to storm out of the chamber in protest.

The Dallas Morning News reports that despite the vote in the GOPs favor, the new map is unlikely to go anywhere because the Texas Dems that are still MIA deny the chamber a quorum. Lawmakers anticipate there will be another special session on Friday, if Abbott can wrangle his states wayward Democrats to return.

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On Friday, Abbot went as far as having the GOP-controlled Texas House of Representatives issue civil arrest warrants for the Democrats who fled, and enlisting Texas state troopers to help hunt them down.

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Read the original on HuffPost
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said California will move forward with drawing new congressional maps that he said "WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY" and allow Democrats to take control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

"DONALD 'TACO' TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, 'MISSED' THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE 'BEAUTIFUL MAPS,' THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!)," Newsom wrote Tuesday night, in a post written in the style of President Donald Trump's occasionally all-caps social media posts.

The announcement comes amid Texas Republicans' efforts to redraw congressional maps in their party's favor. The redistricting showdown in Texas has led blue states to threaten to retaliate -- with Newsom proposing to cut five GOP-held seats in California.

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MORE: Texas Democrats to return after governor ends special session that included redistricting, sources say

Rich Pedroncelli/AP - PHOTO: California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks about the congressional redistricting plan sought by President Donald Trump, during a news conference in Sacramento, Calif., Aug. 8, 2025.

The redistricting battle in Texas -- and potentially other states -- has national implications, with control of the U.S. House potentially at stake. The Texas GOP's proposed congressional map could net Republicans between three and five seats in next year's midterm elections -- seats that could make a difference as Republicans work to maintain their small majority in the U.S. House.

A spokesperson for California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas confirmed to ABC News that the state legislature is aiming to release draft maps on Friday.

MORE: Texas redistricting: What's at stake as Republicans aim to pick up 5 House seats

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Newsom's post did not offer any details on the maps or how he plans to get them approved, although Newsom has said previously he would consider trying to have maps on the ballot in a special election in November.

The California governor said he would be part of a press conference this week with "powerful" Democrats, but didn't offer details about who would be in attendance.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this April 23, 2025, file photo, Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a bill signing in the State Capitol in Austin, Texas.

Newsom sent a letter to Trump on Monday asking the president to tell Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and other Republican governors to abandon efforts to draw new congressional maps. Texas Democrats have fled the state in protest of the maps.

The Texas House of Representatives was once again unable to reach a quorum Tuesday. Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows said that the House will convene once again on Friday, adding if there's no quorum by then, Abbott will adjourn the current session and call a second special session to begin immediately.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom told Donald Trump on Tuesday that the president had missed the deadline to pull back from creating illegal crooked maps in red states to manipulate coming elections.

As a result, Newsom, mimicking the presidents all caps messaging style, indicated the nations most populous state would redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states. He further promised that the results would be historic as they will end the Trump Presidency and result in the Democrats taking back the House.

More from Deadline

DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!). BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential contender, has become the leading Democratic voice countering Texas Republicans efforts to redraw maps so more districts favor the GOP in advance of the 2026 midterms. Trump has pressured the state to do so, as he faces the prospect of losing control of the House of Representatives next year. Redistricting has traditionally been done once every ten years, after the completion of a census, and not in the middle of the decade.

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In turn, Newsom has vowed to launch an effort to redistrict California to make up for any GOP gains in the Lone Star State. California, though, has an independent commission that draws the district maps. Newsom has devised a plan to get a measure on the November ballot with maps that include more Democratic-heavy districts.

On Monday, Newsom went public with a letter to Trump that laid out his demands.

I am writing to ask you to call on the governor of Texas and other red states, who are acting on your request to draw new congressional maps through an unprecedented, mid-decade hyper-partisan gerrymander to rig the upcoming midterm elections, to stop those efforts.

Read the letter @CAGovernor Gavin Newsom just sent Donald Trump:



"If you will not stand down, I will be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states. pic.twitter.com/Atuz478VJ5  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 11, 2025

The governor then issued a series of all-caps warnings to Trump on social media over the next 24 hours, all of which ended with the presidents own signature line, Thank you for your attention to this matter!

DONALD TRUMP, THE LOWEST POLLING PRESIDENT IN RECENT HISTORY, THIS IS YOUR SECOND-TO-LAST WARNING!!! (THE NEXT ONE IS THE LAST ONE!). STAND DOWN NOW OR CALIFORNIA WILL COUNTER-STRIKE (LEGALLY!) TO DESTROY YOUR ILLEGAL CROOKED MAPS IN RED STATES. PRESS CONFERENCE COMING  HOSTED  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 12, 2025

DONALD TRUMP HAS 24 HOURS LEFT TO RESPOND TO GOVERNOR NEWSOMS LETTER. IF HE DOES NOT STAND DOWN, THERE WILL BE A VERY IMPORTANT PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH A MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.  Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 11, 2025

Newsom several times promised a very important press conference this week with a major announcement, again mimicking one of Trumps favorite flourishes.

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 Ted Johnson contributed to this report.

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Television broadcaster Nexstar Media Group, which owns WBRE and operates WYOU, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton affiliates of NBC and CBS, is in advanced talks to acquire rival Tegna, the owner of WNEP, the local ABC affiliate, according to a Wall Street Journal report.

Gary Weitman, executive vice president and chief communications officer for Nexstar in Irving, Texas, would not elaborate on any potential sale.

Nexstar does not comment on rumors or speculation, he said in an emailed statement.

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Molly McMahon, a spokeswoman for Tegna, based in Tysons, Virginia, , declined to comment on the matter Tuesday.

Attempts to reach WNEP and WBRE officials Tuesday were unsuccessful.

Mission Broadcasting of Wichita Falls, Texas, owns WYOU, but Nexstar operates the station under a shared services agreement.

The Federal Communications Commission imposes limits on the number of broadcast stations  radio and TV  an entity can own, officials said. FCC rules effectively prohibit a merger between any two of the big four broadcast television networks: ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC.

WNEPs station in Moosic on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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An entity is permitted to own up to two television stations in the same Designated Market Area (DMA) if the service areas of the stations dont overlap or at least one of the stations is not ranked among the top four rated stations in the DMA based on audience share, FCC officials said. However, an applicant may seek to demonstrate that a top-four combination would serve the public interest despite the prohibition.

In December 2018, Nexstar agreed to buy former WNEP parent company Tribune Media for $4.1 billion. The company later identified WNEP as one of the stations it intended to sell so its acquisition could obtain regulatory approvals.

WNEP was one of 11 stations Tegna acquired from Nexstar in March 2019 for $740 million.

Tegna was formed in June 2015 when it was split off from Gannett. The company owns 64 television stations in 51 U.S. markets.

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Carl Abraham, who retired as WNEPs news director in April 2021 after more than 37 years at the station, fears the potential deal could have adverse consequences on both employees and viewers of the local news stations.

If the FCC changes the current ownership rules to allow the proposed Nexstar/Tegna merger to happen, it could be devastating to TV news organizations and stations in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre DMA, Abraham said in an emailed statement. The consolidation of the local stations would likely mean the loss of numerous jobs and fewer resources to cover news in 17 counties of northeastern and central Pennsylvania.

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WNEPs station in Moosic on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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WNEPs station in Moosic on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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WNEPs station in Moosic on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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The WNEP-TV news building on Montage Mountain Road in Moosic. (TIMES-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO)

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WNEPs station in Moosic on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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Analyst Keith Kobland, who worked for WTVH-TV in Syracuse, New York, for more than 20 years before being laid off when the station shut down in 2009, also worries Nexstars potential purchase of Tegna could negatively impact NEPA residents.

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At the time, WTVH, a CBS affiliate, entered a shared service agreement with the NBC affiliate, which basically took over newsroom operations, Kobland said.

It was done under the guise of this will expand our news coverage and create more news opportunities, but at the end of the day you have two stations running the same news, he said.

Kobland currently serves as adjunct professor of broadcasting and media relations manager at Syracuse University.

While he understands the deal would likely make sense from a business standpoint, he expressed concerns about other potential ramifications.

If you can run operations out of one newsroom, youre going to be able to save money and theoretically put that money back into the product, Kobland said. But what my fear is and what my experience has been is when you have one station essentially consuming another station, youre going to have more of a temptation among ownership to reduce costs or at least figure out a way to do things more cost effectively. From a purely employee standpoint and a journalism standpoint, it just makes me very nervous, because from what Ive seen it leads to less news coverage, or more of a central editorial theme and not more of an independent editorial theme.

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Kobland added Nexstar owning such a large volume of local news stations also raises some concerns.

Nexstar is a very big player  they have more than 200 stations and this is going to put them over 250, 260, if they take over Tegna, he said. Thats a lot of property for one broadcast group to control from an editorial standpoint. There used to be the an expression in journalism classes about the gatekeeper. This is one gatekeeper for a lot of different gates. From a standpoint of having boots on the ground covering news, having this kind of consolidation is dangerous for viewers and employees.
A New Hampshire man was killed during a tense standoff with state police on Tuesday after multiple gunshot rounds struck an armored SWAT vehicle, the attorney general said Wednesday.

David Ward, 57, of Keene, died in the officer-involved shooting around 8 p.m. Tuesday in the area of West Street and Gilbo Avenue in Keene, Attorney General John Formella said in a statement.

No officers were injured.

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The shooting, which was caught on video by a police camera on an armored vehicle, happened hours after Keene police officers conducted a traffic stop on Tuesday afternoon, Formella said.

Police had stopped a car driven by Ward, who was inside the car with a female passenger.

Soon after, the woman got out of the car and moved away, while Ward remained inside the car. Formella said officers learned that Ward had a gun and later saw him with the firearm.

Police secured the area, and a prolonged standoff ensued with the male refusing to disarm himself and exit the vehicle, Formella said.

Around 8 p.m., troopers of the New Hampshire State Police SWAT Unit were in a position around the car when there was gunfire, with multiple gunshot rounds striking the Units armored vehicle and five troopers firing, Formella said.

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Ward was struck by this gunfire and later pronounced dead.

An autopsy conducted Wednesday determined Wards cause of his death was multiple gunshot wounds, and the manner of death was homicide.

As used by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, homicide is defined as the killing of one person by another, Formella said in his statement.

The officers who fired were members of the New Hampshire State Police.

A camera on one armored vehicle recorded the shooting, Formella said.

That footage is currently being preserved and will be reviewed, the attorney general said.

An investigation into the officer-involved shooting is underway by the New Hampshire Department of Justice with the assistance of the New Hampshire State Police Major Crimes Unit, Formella said.

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The identities of the five troopers using deadly force are being withheld pending the conclusion of formal interviews, per standard protocol, Formella said. That process to take place in the next five to ten business days.

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.

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SPRINGFIELD  The Sixteen Acres Civic Association Inc. will host a National Night Out on Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Greenleaf Park in the Sixteen Acres neighborhood.

There will be a cookout meal, along with refreshments and ice cream. All residents of Springfield are welcome.

Parking is available at the Greenleaf Community Center, at 1187 Parker St., as well as a parking lot on Princess Road.

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Community organizations expected to attend include the Springfield Police Department, Springfield Fire Department, Hampden County Sheriffs Department, National Ambulance and American Medical Response, Springfield City Library, Hampden County District Attorneys Office, Thomas J. OConnor Animal Control, and the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission, along with representatives from the city of Springfield.

The National Night Out Organization describes the event as an opportunity to  enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

Read the original article on MassLive.
NEED TO KNOW

Prince William's battle to help the unhoused is in its 20th year

Soon after he started his journey to help reverse the tide on homelessness, he slept out on the streets of London one night in 2009

Inspired by his late mom, Princess Diana, he has followed that with his ambitious Homewards project



A future king sleeping on the streets? For Prince William, that was a natural but nevertheless groundbreaking decision as he cemented his mission to help the homeless.

As his commitment to helping tackle the issue reaches its 20th anniversary, the moment that is seared into the minds of allies in the battle is being recalled.

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When the Prince of Wales, 43, began his public life after university, he knew where to start: with an issue that he and his brother, Prince Harry, were introduced to as young boys by their late mother, Princess Diana. So Centrepoint, which Diana had also supported, was one of the first causes he adopted, becoming a patron that year, 2005.

Four years later, he secretly took the headline-making step of sleeping out on the streets of London one night. For a man in his position, making that decision was brave, says CEO of Centrepoint, Seyi Obakin, who joined him that night: He said, I want to get close to this issue, and it is all well and good reading about it and talking to people affected by it, but how about I actually get a feel for it personally?

Obakin tells PEOPLE, He didnt want to be in a safe zone. He wanted to have an experience that would be as close to the experience that a young person would have if they had had to make that choice.

Pool/Tim Graham Picture Library/Getty Prince William helps in a kitchen run by Centrepoint in London in December 2006 Prince William helps in a kitchen run by Centrepoint in London in December 2006

It rapidly drew attention to the issue, Obakin says.

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One of the first things he said, he didnt want to be an ornamental patron," Obakin explains. "He wanted to get involved and understand the issues and to know how he could help, and he wanted to help. He hasnt wavered from that from day one. (Today, William has a five-year plan Homewards to find new ways of making homelessness "rare, brief and unrepeated" in the U.K.)

The appreciation of his impact comes at a time when he and his brother Harry are in the minds of people around the world as the 28th anniversary of their late mothers death in 1997 nears.

Inspiration to them both for their public philanthropy came from Diana, who took William and Harry to The Passage shelter in London when they were around ages 11 and 9. Current head of The Passage, Mick Clarke, tells PEOPLE how William said that the visits with his mother had left a deep and lasting impression. He also talked about how his mom made it very pointed that he  as she said  was exposed to life beyond palace walls. That is something that he and [wife Kate Middleton] are doing with their own children.

Anwar Hussein/Getty Prince William and Seyi Obakin when they slept out in London in December 2009 Prince William and Seyi Obakin when they slept out in London in December 2009

For more on how Prince William and Prince Harry honor their late mother, pick up a copy of this week's PEOPLE, on newsstands on Friday

Taking a lead from the playbook of Diana, who quietly not only visited refuges for the unhoused but also hospital wards for AIDS patients, William has secretly helped out behind the scenes. During one month during COVID-19 in November 2020, he went to The Passage three times in four weeks.

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He came in and helped, preparing and cooking the food  and in some cases delivering the food, Clarke tells PEOPLE in this weeks issue. I think he feels more comfortable when it is just him with no cameras.

IAN VOGLER/POOL/AFP via Getty Prince William visits The Passage on Feb. 13, 2019 Prince William visits The Passage on Feb. 13, 2019

Hes noticed how The Passages users react when they meet Prince William, who has served as patron of the charity since 2019. People experiencing homelessness are very good at assessing if someone is authentic or not. When he visits, such as when he is helping out at Christmas, he normally runs over  if hes meant to be there for an hour, it will be approaching three.

Theres something deeply authentic about that. With things like that, you cant fake it. I have known him now for many years, and what you see is what you get, Clarke says.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

One of the most terrifying things you can experience is street homelessness, and you can feel like you have lost everything," he adds. "And to have someone clearly wanting to genuinely hear your story and want to listen, is quite a statement. This is the guy who is a future king, and it is quite a statement, really, that he wants to do that; it is very supportive.

Kensington Palace/Twitter Prince William and Prince Harry with Princess Diana when she took them to The Passage

Clarke adds, "The only reason you would put your head above the parapet and say, I dont believe we should be having homelessness in this country, is if you were passionate about it and believed in it. He is so driven in terms of how can I bring people together to work on this in their own communities.

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On July 1, the day that would have been Princess Dianas 64th birthday, Prince William shared a platform with U.K. politician Gordon Brown, who was Prime Minister for three years from June 2007. I think hes changing peoples view of homelessness and what can be done about it, Brown said.

The occasion was the second anniversary of the Prince of Wales' Homewards project, where six areas of the U.K. are involved in trying innovative methods to find solutions to homelessness in the various areas.

Isabel Infantes - WPA Pool/Getty Prince William visiting homelessness charity Centrepoint in November 2019 Prince William visiting homelessness charity Centrepoint in November 2019

Centrepoint is a partner of Homewards, and Obakin tells PEOPLE of William's project: He didnt want to be an ornament, and he wanted to affect the issue. I see sleeping out as part of that story, and I see Homewards as a continuation of that.

When I talk to people about ending homelessness 10 years ago, most people would say youre on a highway to nothing. Are you going to stop homelessness or stop what causes it from happening? For him to take on that and come out with it, I think you cant divorce that from that early introduction to the issue and the conscious choice he has made for the harder path and to say Im going to do everything in my power to see to this issue," he adds. The language is more about ending homelessness and not about managing it. His intervention has changed the center of gravity in that way already.

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Clarke adds that Prince William isnt delusional in terms of thinking he can wave a magic wand and in an amount of years that can be done. But he has been a great catalyst in terms of emphasizing that the more people work together, the more you can look to find those solutions.

Read the original article on People
PRNewswire Gurugram (Haryana) [India], August 13: slice, which aims to build India's most loved bank, today unveiled its second UPI-powered physical branch in Gurugram, bringing its technology-forward banking philosophy to northern India. The launch follows the groundbreaking debut of India's first UPI-integrated physical banking experience in Bengaluru this June. slice SFB expands physical footprint with the launch of a UPI-first bank branch in Gurugram. The new Gurugram branch continues slice's vision of building a banking experience that prioritizes speed, transparency, and customer delight, all while lowering the cost of delivery through technology. With complete UPI integration woven throughout its services, this physical branch enables customers to experience banking that feels intuitive and seamless. When customers walk in, they discover that everything, from opening a bank account in minutes to depositing or withdrawing cash via slice's UPI ATM, or accessing services through self-service digital kiosks, makes banking feel as effortless as making a UPI payment. "At slice, we're building for a future where banking feels effortless, whether it's on your phone or at a branch near you," said Rajan Bajaj, Founder and Executive Director of slice. "Gurugram represents the future of urban India. It's young, aspirational, and digital-first. With this new UPI-powered branch, we're turning a traditionally slow and complex experience into something fast, intuitive, and built for real life." At the new Gurugram branch, customers can instantly open a savings account through self-service digital kiosks, access banking services such as fixed deposits and credit, and use the slice UPI ATM to deposit, withdraw, or transfer money - all without the need for an account number, IFSC, or debit card. By simply scanning a QR code and entering the amount, users can complete transactions with ease, extending the convenience of UPI into traditionally complex banking services. Following its merger with North East Small Finance Bank, slice now operates as a full-stack bank, building its own core banking systems, payment infrastructure, and ATM networks from the ground up. This expansion is part of slice's broader push to build a distributed, technology-enabled, and UPI-integrated banking network that works across urban and semi-urban India alike. The slice digital bank branch in Gurugram delivers: * Full UPI integration across all services* UPI-powered ATMs for easy cash deposits and withdrawals* Instant customer onboarding with zero paperwork* Self-service kiosks for exploring and accessing bank products slice SFB remains focused on building a bank for a billion Indians - one that simplifies credit, makes saving and spending easier, and brings formal finance to every corner of the country. About slice slice is on a mission to build India's most loved bank. It is reimagining consumer banking in India with simple, transparent, and technology-driven products. Following its merger with North East Small Finance Bank, slice operates as a full-stack bank, offering the slice savings account, slice fixed deposits, slice UPI, slice borrow, the slice UPI credit card and UPI-powered bank branches. slice's mission is to make banking faster, fairer, accessible and easier for every Indian. slice is backed by marquee global investors including Tiger Global, Insight Partners, Advent International, Blume Ventures, and Gunosy Capital. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749634/SLICE_Gurugram.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
(NewsNation)  National Institutes of Health director Jay Bhattacharya believes mRNA vaccine technology is promising but has failed at earning public trust, speaking one week after the federal government canceled $500 million for its development.

Once hailed as a medical miracle by then-President Trump during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA vaccines are the latest innovation put on the chopping block by Bhattacharyas boss, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Schools brace for MAHA changes to lunches

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Kennedy last week announced HHS would begin a coordinated wind-down of its mRNA vaccine development activities. His reasoning  that the vaccines were unsafe  contradicted Bhattacharyas, outlined in a recently published op-ed for The Washington Post.

NIH director blames Bidens overreach for vaccine skepticism

Bhattacharyas piece did not portray mRNA vaccines as dangerous, but rather still in progress: Still, I do not believe the mRNA vaccines caused either mass harm on the one hand or saved 14 million lives on the other. Those estimates swing wildly based on speculative modeling, not concrete evidence.

Do hyperbaric oxygen chambers work?

He also refuted the idea that reluctance to get vaccinated or vaccinate children is due to an increased anti-vax sentiment.

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Instead, the NIH director placed the blame on the Biden administration for mandating COVID-19 vaccines in 2021. Notably, most of those mandates were overturned through legal means or pulled by the administration  only a mandate for certain health care workers was upheld.

The failure was thus not a communications problem. It is a trust problem due to the Biden administrations scientific overreach, public pressure and, frankly, arrogance, he wrote.

Brain computer interface revolutionizing life for motor-impaired

mRNA technology enabled the development of those COVID-19 vaccines, which experts like former U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams credit as saving millions of lives.

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Bhattacharya acknowledged its usefulness in the op-ed, writing: In the future, it may yet deliver breakthroughs in treating diseases such as cancer, and HHS is continuing to invest in ongoing research on applications in oncology and other complex diseases.

Vaccination rates dropping, but experts vouch for mRNA safety

Its true that fewer people in the U.S. are getting mRNA vaccines, especially children.

The latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, published in April, showed that 13% of children between six months and 17 years old had already received an updated COVID-19 vaccine. That means a large majority hadnt  and likely wont.

Sycophantic ChatGPT encourages dangerous behavior: Study

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Similarly, a Pew Research Center poll published in October 2024 found that 60% of Americans said they likely wouldnt get an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

That same poll found that two reservations stood out as major reasons for those opting out: they didnt think they needed it (61%) or were concerned about side effects (60%).

They remained the top two reasons regardless of age, race, political party or ethnicity.

While Kennedy and other top health officials have not yet commented on Bhattacharyas op-ed, HHS decision to cut mRNA development funding has gotten plenty of feedback.

Hand soap recalled for bacteria linked to life-threatening sepsis

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Infectious disease experts say the mRNA technology used in vaccines is safe, and they credit its development during the first Trump administration with slowing the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Future pandemics, they warned, will be harder to stop without the help of mRNA.

I dont think Ive seen a more dangerous decision in public health in my 50 years in the business, said Mike Osterholm, a University of Minnesota expert on infectious diseases and pandemic preparations.

He noted mRNA technology offers potential advantages of rapid production, crucial in the event of a new pandemic that requires a new vaccine.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  They parked at night near an alley, ready to sell two bags of marijuana to someone theyd been messaging through Instagram.

The transaction didnt go as planned.

Within minutes, the driver was shot and his passenger spattered with blood, the car careening out of control and hitting parked vehicles before slamming into a carport.

The shooter bolted.

Officers arrived to find Landen ORyan Worthy, 19, motionless in the drivers seat. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Police reports say his accused killer, Marlow Keith Maize, 18, was identified through a combination of surveillance video, cellphone data and a palm print left on Worthys car.

Maize, charged with first-degree murder and held without bail, has a preliminary hearing scheduled this week.

Drug deal gone wrong

Among the first people officers spoke to was Worthys girlfriend, who was seated next to him when the shooting occurred at about 9:44 p.m. on July 27, according to police reports filed in Superior Court.

She was hysterical, police said, but managed to provide an account of what happened.

Worthy had been communicating with someone on Instagram who set up the drug transaction and told them where to go, the girlfriend told police.

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Investigators recognized the Instagram account as belonging to an Eastside Crip; his name was redacted from the reports. The girlfriend said the person pictured on the account wasnt the shooter.

Worthy and she arrived on Roberta Way, east of New Stine Road and south of Belle Terrace, in a 2022 Chrysler 300. They parked and a man walked from the alley to the drivers side door.

He tried to get in the back seat, the girlfriend told police, but Worthy had locked the doors.

The man then spoke with them from the drivers side window. As they talked, he gave his phone to Worthy, who attempted to send text messages to himself and his girlfriend, according to the documents.

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The messages didnt go through and Worthy handed back the phone, the girlfriend said.

Soon after, the man pointed a gun and said something to the effect of, Give me that s, she told police. Then she heard the gunshots.

Worthy hit the gas and she grabbed the wheel and attempted to steer but they crashed moments later. She told police she jumped out and ran, thinking the shooter might eliminate her as a witness.

Officers searched the Chrysler and found two clear bags of marijuana inside.

An autopsy revealed Worthy had multiple gunshot wounds, including below both ears and his left shoulder and upper arm, according to the documents. Two bullets were removed from his chest and a bullet fragment from his upper left shoulder.

Surveillance video and cellphone data

Investigators collected surveillance footage from the scene. A camera captured the shooting and appeared to corroborate the girlfriends account.

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The footage shows a man walk up to the Chrysler. Gunshots are heard and a muzzle flash is visible as shots are fired into the vehicle, which then surges eastbound toward Nimrod Court, according to the documents.

The video wasnt clear enough to positively identify the shooter.

Other evidence, however, proved stronger.

A palm print lifted from from the exterior of the Chryslers drivers side door belonged to Maize, according to the documents. His apartment is just west of the shooting, on Valhalla Drive, the reports say.

Investigators got a warrant for Maizes cellphone records.

They showed messages between Maizes and Worthys phones that were sent at about the time the girlfriend said the gunmans phone was handed to Worthy, according to the documents.

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Location data placed Maizes phone at the crime scene, the reports say. The device headed southeast minutes after the shooting.

Police obtained an arrest warrant and took Maize into custody on Aug. 1 in Salinas.

He at first denied being involved in the shooting, the reports say, then later claimed Worthy had pulled up and held him at gunpoint while searching him. He told police he fired in self-defense  a contention at odds with surveillance video and the girlfriends account.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
NEW JERSEY - Millions of New Jerseyans will soon discover whether they're eligible to receive property tax relief from the state this year.

What we know

The New Jersey Division of Taxation will begin sending out letters on Wednesday to residents letting them know if they meet the requirements for the 2025 Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters (ANCHOR) relief program. ANCHOR "provides property tax relief to New Jersey residents who own or rent property in New Jersey as their principal residence and meet certain income limits."

These letters will be sent to anyone under the age of 65 who is not currently collecting Social Security benefits. The state will auto-file for the majority of eligible residents, but you can also file your own application here.

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Now, senior citizens and others who receive Social Security are also able to receive ANCHOR benefits, but this year, a new form allows these N.J. residents to apply to multiple property tax relief programs at once. The PAS-1 application allows these residents to apply for ANCHOR, Senior Freeze and the Stay N.J. programs in one place.

How much to expect from the ANCHOR program, and when

By the numbers

The first payments will begin to be sent out about a month from now on Sept. 15 on a rolling basis, typically within 90 days of filing. Those who file by paper will only be able to receive their tax rebate via paper check. Online filers will be able to choose between receiving a check or having their funds direct deposited.

Here are the maximum benefit amounts:

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Maximum benefit of $1,750 for senior homeowners

Maximum benefit of $700 for senior renters

Maximum benefit of $450 for renters under 65

Maximum benefit of $1,650 for homeowners under 65

Eligibility for the ANCHOR program

Homeowners

If you're a New Jersey homeowner wondering if you're eligible for ANCHOR benefits, you have to meet the following criteria:

You owned and occupied a home in the state that served as your primary residence on Oct. 1, 2024.

Your 2024 gross New Jersey income did not exceed $250,000.

Your home was subject to property taxes.

Renters

If you're a New Jersey renter wondering if you're eligible for ANCHOR benefits, you have to meet the following criteria:

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You rented and occupied a residence in the state that served as your primary residence on Oct. 1, 2024.

Your 2024 gross New Jersey income did not exceed $150,000.

You paid rent and your name was on the lease or rental agreement.

Your rental property was subject to local property taxes.

Deadlines and things to know

Timeline

The deadline to file for the ANCHOR program is Oct. 31. Those who would like to receive their money via paper check must file their own application by Sept. 15. This is also the deadline to change bank account information for those who receive a letter confirming their eligibility.

Filers must also use the ID.me site when filing online.

You can check the status of your rebate by clicking here.

The Source

Information provided in the article above came from the The New Jersey Division of Taxation.
The credits will cut power bills in September and October in the state's latest bid to address surging power prices. (Getty Images)

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities on Wednesday approved $100 utility bill credits meant to defray the impact of surging electricity prices.

In a unanimous vote, the regulators three board members approved credits that will reduce residential monthly electricity bills by $50 in September and in October, part of state officials latest bid to curb energy costs amid summer heat and soaring rates.

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This should be helpful for people, but in no way solves the problem. I hope this helps some people get over the hump. This is a very difficult time, said Commissioner Zenon Christodoulou.

All residential ratepayers are eligible for the credits, regardless of their income.

Electricity rates have surged nationwide, driven upward in part by artificial intelligence data centers mammoth energy demand, while New Jerseys plans for new renewable generation  chiefly in the form of offshore wind  have largely failed to provide relief.

Wholesale electricity prices rose by roughly 20% in June and are due to rise as much as 5% when the results of a recent price-setting capacity auction take effect in June 2026. Regulators have said they expect prices to rise even further in a capacity auction planned for next July.

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The credits will be funded by funds from the solar alternative compliance payment, which is paid by electricity suppliers that are unable to meet the states renewables standard, and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which generates funds by auctioning tradeable emissions allowances to fossil fuel plants.

Solar funds, tallied at $263 million Wednesday, would be used before money from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which totaled $123 million Wednesday, Board of Public Utilities staff said.

The credits are part of a plan Gov. Phil Murphy and other state Democrats announced days after higher prices took effect in early June.

That month, the board approved a plan to defer $60 total from electricity bills in July and August, when high temperatures and air conditioning drive power use to a peak. Ratepayers are responsible for repaying those deferred balances, which do not accrue interest or other carrying costs, over the following six months.

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We want to make sure were doing everything we can, and well continue to do everything we can with the resources that we have to reduce costs for ratepayers, said Board of Public Utilities President Christine Guhl-Sadovy.

At the same time, the board approved other programs that extended $175 in bill credits to low-income ratepayers. Those credits are to be applied in equal installments over seven months, from August to February 2026. That benefit was paid last year as a single $175 credit to August utility bills.

Democrats have blamed PJM Interconnection, the grid operator for New Jersey and 12 other states, for recent rate increases, arguing it has been too slow to connect chiefly renewable projects to its grid.

Republicans have blamed Murphys renewables-heavy energy goals and the administrations focus on offshore wind, which has failed to stand up any new generation.

The states offshore wind projects appear dead in the water amid opposition from the Trump administration, which has paused or rescinded leases and permits for such projects, and lingering supply chain issues stemming from the pandemic.

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The board on Wednesday approved an order terminating a contract with Atlantic Shores for a 1,509-megawatt wind farm off the coast of Atlantic City.

The developer requested that cancellation in June, citing federal uncertainty and the Trump administrations withdrawal of a Clean Air Act permit needed for construction. The projects first 762 megawatts of generation were due to come online in September 2027, with the remaining generation expected to start by April 2028.

Atlantic Shores sought to rebid that project, but the utilities board closed its fourth round of offshore wind solicitations without awarding any projects, citing uncertainty at the federal level.

Regulators acknowledged plans for wind generation would have to wait at least a few years. On Wednesday, the board approved an order delaying required in-service dates for offshore wind transmission infrastructure by two-and-a-half years.

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Officials said the delay is meant to ease cost pressures by delaying transmission infrastructure investments, which ratepayers fund through their utility bills, without any electricity to bring to shore.

Obviously, some federal uncertainty has created a situation where we need to make sure were acting in a way that we always do  on the best interest of ratepayers, Guhl-Sadovy said. This, along with some of the other actions today, are in response to some of those federal decisions around clean energy.

Those projects, now required to be in service by January 2033, are meant to bring electricity from offshore wind turbines to the coast and prepare the grid for that power.

The order did little to shake environmental groups commitment to wind energy.

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Offshore wind is critical to our clean energy portfolio and to protecting our health, environment, and economy. Every delay forces our residentsespecially low-income families and communities of colorto breathe dirty air and bear the brunt of climate change. Weve been knocked down, but well keep getting back up, said Ed Potosnak, executive director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters.

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The kids arent all right  and their parents wont be, either!

Moms and dads in a New Jersey suburb can be tossed in prison and fined for their badly behaving children  under a bonkers new ordinance that some say strips parents of their rights and potentially sets a dangerous precedent.

The new law in Gloucester Township, passed in late July, is called Minors and Parent Responsibility and stipulates that parents will be held accountable for public disturbances caused by their child, and could go to jail for three months if their kids are found guilty of multiple offenses.

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Parents are feeling pretty outraged, Alex Bougher, chair of the Bergen County chapter of parents rights group Moms for Liberty, told The Post Tuesday. Theyre getting attacked from every angle here.

Rowdy teens brawled and destroyed property at the 2024 Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show. Debbie Rayner

The ordinance is the result of a massive brawl that broke out last year among a throng of 500 minors at the Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show, according to NJ.com. Eleven people  including nine teens  were arrested. Three officers were also injured.

The juvenile offenses that fall under the new law are sweeping  there are 28 in total  with being a disorderly person, immorality, destruction of playground equipment and loitering joining the likes of assault, mugging, drunkenness and drug dealing.

If a child is repeatedly found guilty in juvenile court, their caretaker could face up to 90 days in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,000, the Gloucester Township police said in a recent release clarifying the law.

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Police Chief David Harkins told NJ.com that the law consisted of general legal language and that parents would receive a warning first for their kids bad behavior.

Our ordinance was actually sampled from other towns, Harkins said, referring to the Jersey Shores Wildwood, which has also seen a spate of crazy teen behavior. Were not necessarily the first, but were probably the first bigger town to adopt it.

The Drone Show brawl was just the latest incident of teens causing chaos in New Jersey in recent months. Debbie Rayner

Gloucester Township is located just eight miles from Philadelphia and has a population of nearly 66,900.

The drastic move has been supported by Mayor David Mayer.

We have to hold parents responsible, he told the Courier Post.

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Bougher, a mother of three herself, said many parents shes spoken with feel the law is an overstep  and an alarming move toward stripping away parents right to make choices for their children.

Its a very dangerous precedent. Like, this should not be. This should not be, she said, adding that the new law was also a contradiction of policies already in place in the state.

Bougher cited New Jersey public schools Policy 5756, a recent guidance which advises teachers not to tell parents if their kids begin identifying as a different gender in the classroom  and to create a confidential file of school records to keep hidden from parents.

Policy 5756 is intended to protect transgender students who might be endangered by parents who dont agree with their identity choice, but Bougher and others see it as an infringement on parents freedoms to raise their kids  and a policy that also makes Minors and Parent Responsibility illogical.

The new law that aims to put parents behind bars if their kids become repeat offenders was passed in response to the 2024 Drone Show brawl. Debbie Rayner

Parents are basically being told that they dont have rights as parents to know whats going on with their children, she said, but then on the other side, its How could you not know what was going on with your children? How come you didnt step in?'

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If youre going to block the parents, how can you blame the parents? she added.

Nicole Stouffer, one of the organizers of parents rights group the New Jersey Project, says the new ordinance on its face doesnt make sense.

A 90-day jail sentence is extreme  for parents who maybe have other kids, maybe they have a problem kid, she said. Now this person cant pay their bills and their mortgage or take care of their children? And theyre going to go to jail because they have one child thats out of control?

Its kind of like a snake eating its tail  nothing is going to get fixed, Stouffer added.

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Stouffer thinks the problem lies in post-pandemic movements to roll back policing  and that cops need to be allowed to intervene and defuse kids before situations get out of hand.

We have eliminated powers for the police to maybe do their job, she said. Its just an extreme response to something thats not being taken care of by the state.
An assistant conductor for New Jersey Transit has filed a federal lawsuit claiming there were no police officers present when he and other workers were violently attacked by a passenger on a train in Middlesex County.

Mark Coppola, of Marlton, says he was working on a train traveling toward Metropark Station in Middlesex County when a passenger pulled an emergency cord  which stopped the train  and then exposed himself to other passengers.

The incident occurred about 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2022, according to the lawsuit, filed Aug. 6 in U.S. District Court.

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When Coppola approached the passenger, the man allegedly struck him and attacked crew members who came to help, according to the suit, which seeks $150,000 for physical injuries and mental anguish.

(Coppola) and the other crew members were trying to restrain the passenger, without success, court papers state.

It took approximately 20-30 minutes to subdue the passenger, until NJTPD officers arrived at the Metropark Station, the lawsuit says.

The lawsuit claims there were no police officers on the train and there were none assigned to work at Metropark Station.

Coppola claims he sustained injuries to his shoulders and right knee, and has suffered from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

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A spokesperson for NJ Transit said in an email on Monday that the agency does not comment on pending or active litigation.

According to the suit, a police substation with four officers assigned was located within the Metropark Station in Woodbridge, but closed in November 2021.

The closure resulted in Metropark being unmanned by NJTPD when Coppola and his fellow workers were attacked, the suit says.

The lawsuit claims NJ Transit officials have long been aware of staffing shortages but have not implemented any policies to protect train workers from violent passengers.

From June 1999 through November 2024, there were 47 documented assaults on 37 NJ Transit workers, according to the suit.

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In addition to the December 2022 attack, Coppola claims he was assaulted while working on a train on May 5, 2021. Details of that alleged assault were not contained in the federal suit.

Coppolas complaint accuses the transit agency of negligence for failing to hire a sufficient number of police officers or security personnel to protect workers from unruly or violent passengers.

Coppola is also asking that conductors be provided with adequate means of communication between themselves and NJ Transit police.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com.
U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, right, sips a cup of coffee while speaking with Nancy Langer, managing partner of Red Rock Roasters, in Albuquerque on Tuesday. Red Rock Roasters and eight other local coffee companies said their prices are up to 40% higher than this time last year. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source NM)

The coffee industry in New Mexico and across the country was already in crisis when President Donald Trumps second term began, owners of a prominent local roaster told U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan when he visited their Albuquerque headquarters Tuesday.

A sudden 50% import tax on one of their biggest suppliers is making business much more chaotic, and consumers of all types can expect prices to continue to increase in the months and years to come, Rachel Langer, coffee director at Red Rock Roasters, told Source New Mexico.

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Anybody whos buying coffee by the pound has definitely already felt this, and they will only feel it more, she said. And people who buy coffee by the cup, because the coffee is such a small percentage of the total cost of the beverage, its not gonna feel as bad, but they are, in fact, also paying quite a bit more. Its just, like, a slow drip.

The 50% tariffs that went into effect on Brazil, which produces about one-third of Americas coffee supply, were just the latest chapter in an unpredictable and expensive few months for Red Rock Roasters, Langer said.

Even though Trump has created and then canceled various tariffs since taking office, Red Rock Roasters has consistently paid the tariffs since April, Langer said. Thats because the contracts she signs with coffee brokers are worked out months before the beans arrive at her roastery, she said.

Lujan, center, smiles while getting a tour from Nancy Langer, left, and her daughter, Rachel, right, of the roaster. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source NM)

In May, she presented Lujans office with a petition she circulated among other New Mexico coffee roasters, calling on Lujan to support the Trade Review Act of 2025, which would enable Congress to approve tariff changes. The Republican-controlled Senate has taken no action on the bill since it was referred to the Senate Finance Committee.

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The petition said prices of raw goods she and other coffee roasters need were between 25% and 40% higher than last year.

After getting a tour of the coffee roaster, Lujan told Source New Mexico that the tariffs across the state are hitting New Mexico businesses hard. Despite Trumps promises, businesses and consumers are bearing the costs.

Everything that this President is doing is arbitrary. So thats more uncertainty, more pressure on all these entrepreneurs, all these small businesses across the country, the New Mexico Democrat said. Ive not spoken to one business in New Mexico yet that has told me that they are applauding these tariffs, whether its a toy store, restaurants, a manufacturing wholesaler.

The new tariffs in Brazil will only increase prices on industry already going through hikes that result from crop failures and labor shortages, Langer said. And she said that the purported aim of the tariffs  boosting domestic manufacturing  make little sense for coffee, which can only grow in high elevations near the equator in tropical temperatures.

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Coffee grows in Hawaii, but the state produces 5 million pounds annually in a country that imports 3.5 billion pounds each year, the local companies write in the letter.

There truly is no domestic alternative to importing coffee, the petition states. Nine coffee companies statewide signed the letter, including NM Pinon Coffee, the states biggest coffee company.

We are, in fact, manufacturers. We are what American manufacturing looks like, Langer said Tuesday. Its not making toothbrushes.

Langer said she expects the price of a latte to increase by about 50 cents due to the latest round of tariffs. In the next year or two, she predicts that major coffee companies will buy up the stock of coffee from countries with lower tariffs, leaving her roastery and other smaller shops with only the most expensive options.

Were going to be stuck with whatevers left. Thats my main concern, she said. Were already on the backfoot.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY)  Newport News Police announced the arrest of a second man involved in the Family Fare shooting on J. Clyde Morris Boulevard in May that killed one man.

Marvin Issac Redding, 40, was apprehended in Newark, Delaware by the U.S. Marshals and New Castle SWAT team on Aug. 5.

Marvin Issac Redding (Courtesy: Newport News Police Department)

He was extradited back to Virginia and charged with first-degree murder, grand larceny, robbery, use of a firearm in commission of a felony and discharging of a firearm in a public place on Aug. 12.

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On May 20, police announced the arrest of Tony Jermaine Tynes, 39, who was charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of firearm by felon and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

Tony Jermaine Tynes (Courtesy: Newport News Police Department)

Police responded to a report of a shooting at Family Fare in the 600 block of J. Clyde Morris Boulevard around 9:20 p.m. on May 17. Upon arrival, officers located a man, identified as 32-year-old Dreshaun Pruden, inside the convenience store suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

NNPD: 2 persons of interest sought following fatal shooting at Family Fare

Id like to commend our detectives for their hard work and diligence in this case and also thank our law enforcement partners for their assistance in locating the second suspect, NNPD Police Chief Steve Drew said. I also want to express our gratitude to the community for their help and understanding, and the citys investment in technology, which were also important factors in this case.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A Jacksonville, Florida, sheriff's deputy seen on video striking a motorist in the face during an arrest that began with a traffic stop will not face criminal charges in connection with the Feb. 19 incident, prosecutors announced on Wednesday.

The announcement, in the case involving 22-year-old William McNeil Jr., came in an 16-page memo released by the state attorney for the 4th Judicial Circuit Court, which serves Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties in Florida.

"The State Attorney's Office has reviewed this matter to determine whether any of Officer [D.] Bowers' actions constitute a crime. We conclude they do not," the memo stated.

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"Officer Bowers conducted a lawful traffic stop and gave McNeil 12 individual lawful commands, which McNeil refused to obey. Repeatedly requesting a supervisor and arguing the merits of the traffic stop did not absolve McNeil from following lawful orders," the memo continues. "McNeil's refusal to provide his identification, registration, and proof of insurance, followed by his refusal to exit the SUV, show his hands, and obey the officers' orders, created a dangerous situation for all involved."

McNeil's arrest by Jacksonville sheriff's deputies was captured in a viral cellphone video that McNeil recorded. Following the release of that video, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into the arrest and released body camera footage from three separate officers of the incident.

'I feared for my life': Man punched in viral Jacksonville traffic stop speaks out on violent arrest

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.

The announcement that the Bowers will not be charged comes more than three weeks after Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters announced during a press conference that "the State Attorney's Office has determined that none of the involved officers violated criminal law."

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At the time, the state attorney's office told ABC News that its memo on McNeil was not complete. It is unclear when the decision not to charge the officers was made. ABC News reached out to the state attorney's office and the sheriff's office for additional comment.

McNeil's attorneys, Ben Crump and Harry Daniels, criticized the state attorney's decision not to press charges in a statement on Wednesday and called on the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the incident.

"Frankly, we expected nothing less especially after Sheriff Waters announced their conclusions more than three weeks before the report was issued," the statement said. "Since they are unwilling to seek justice, we will have to request that the U.S. Department of Justice investigate this incident and the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office."

What we know about the violent Jacksonville traffic stop that went viral

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McNeil was pulled over by a sheriff's deputy at 4:15 p.m. local time on Feb. 19 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.

In the cellphone and body camera videos, sheriff's deputies are seen beating McNeil during the traffic stop after he repeatedly questioned why he was being pulled over and refused to exit his vehicle.

McNeil told ABC News in an interview that aired on ABC News Live Prime on July 23 that he feared for his life.

"I was scared, frightened. I grew up being told that officers protect us, but that wasn't the case," McNeil said.

William NcNeil, Jr. via Attorney Michael Wukela - PHOTO: William McNeil, Jr. is pictured in his band uniform in an updated photo.

The state attorney's memo characterized what appeared to be a punch to McNeil's face that was captured by the cellphone video as a "a one-time, open-handed strike to McNeil's face."

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The memo stated the move "had a legitimate tactical purpose  to get McNeil out of the SUV and to show his hands, which McNeil did after the strike."

"Officer Bowers' second strike occurred during McNeil's arrest and was in response to McNeil's physical resistance to the arrest," the memo stated.

Authorities later said they found marijuana in McNeil's pocket, a large sporting knife on the vehicle's floorboards and drug paraphernalia in the center console.

McNeil's attorneys, Crump and Daniels, said that prosecutors never interviewed McNeil about the incident and criticized Bowers for not mentioning the "punch" to McNeil's face in his police report, which was reviewed by ABC News.

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"Let's be clear, the State Attorney's Office never interviewed William McNeil. They did, however, try to excuse the fact that Officer Bowers failed to disclose his unlawful 'distractionary strike,'" Daniels and Crump said. "They also tried to decriminalize Officer Bowers punching Mr. McNeil outside the vehicle and completely failed to mention the officers slamming Mr. McNeil's face into the asphalt while he was under control and in custody."

Sheriff releases body camera footage in violent arrest that went viral

Waters said during the July 21 press conference that the deputies' actions are now being examined in an "administrative review," which will determine if the deputies "violated [Jacksonville Sheriff's Office] policy."

"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.

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"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. Asked about the status of the investigation and Bowers' employment status, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office told ABC News on Wednesday that the "internal investigation continues and we will have no further comment."
Karen Read is seeking to dismiss portions of the wrongful death lawsuit brought by the family of John OKeefe, a Boston police officer she dated and who died in January 2022, according to documents filed with Plymouth Superior Court on Tuesday.

Read, 45, was acquitted of all charges connected to the death of OKeefe in June following a lengthy retrial. Prosecutors accused her of backing her Lexus SUV into OKeefe after a night of drinking. She was found guilty of a lesser charge: operating under the influence.

In a motion filed on Tuesday, Read seeks to dismiss four counts of the civil lawsuit by OKeefes family that claim emotional distress inflicted on OKeefes parents, Margaret OKeefe and John OKeefe II, his brother, Paul OKeefe, and OKeefes niece, Kayley Furbush.

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Read vehemently denies that she is liable to the Plaintiffs, as there was no collision between the Defendants SUV and John J. OKeefe III leading to his injury or death, the motion reads.

After Reads first trial concluded in a mistrial last year, OKeefes family filed the lawsuit in Plymouth Superior Court, claiming Read was responsible for OKeefes death. The family also named two Canton bars where the pair drank on the night of his death as defendants.

The two bars have joined in Reads efforts to have the four counts dismissed, according to court filings, along with additional counts.

In a response to the motion to dismiss filed by Reads attorneys, Marc Diller, the OKeefe familys attorney, answered with a sharply worded memorandum in opposition.

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Defendant Karen Read inaccurately styled her motion as a motion to dismiss the plaintiffs complaint when in reality it only seeks to dismiss several counts sounding in emotional distress, knowing that the media would pick up on the ... filing, the memorandum states.

Diller described Read as exploiting OKeefes niece as her attempt to deflect and to frame a false narrative around JJs death.

The OKeefe family has suffered and continues to suffer immense emotional trauma from this wrongful death, which has been further intensified by the unyielding barrage of harassment and ridicule by Read and her supporters targeting the grieving family, Diller wrote. Reads campaign of disinformation designed to obfuscate the truth and to attack the OKeefe family not only deprives them of justice but also amplifies their grief and the loss of their beloved family member, Diller wrote.

The OKeefe familys lawyer argued that Reads defense is attempting to prematurely dismiss claims made by the OKeefes since the case has largely been on pause due to her trial, which lasted from April to June.

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Plaintiffs infliction of emotional distress claims require a fact-intensive analysis, which is not ripe for deciding at this early stage of the lawsuit and without adequate discovery, Diller wrote.

Last month, Read added three new lawyers to her defense team in the civil suit: Damon Seligson, Charles Waters and Aaron D. Rosenberg. They join three lawyers from the firm Melick & Porter, who already represented Read: Christopher George, William L. Keville Jr. and Marissa K. Palladini.

The civil case could mark the first time Read speaks under oath about the events of Jan. 29, 2022, when OKeefe, 46, was found near death in the snow outside the home of a fellow Boston Police officer in Canton. Her deposition, along with those of her parents and sister-in-law, had been on pause while the criminal trial was ongoing.

The burden of proof in a civil case is much lower than in a criminal case, and jurors need only to find that a preponderance of the evidence shows something is true.

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No trial date has been set for the case. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 22.

Karen Read murder case

Read the original article on MassLive.
Mari El Republic [Russia], August 13: From July 28 to August 8, Mari State University (MarSU) hosted its annual "Languages of Friendship" cultural camp, reinforcing its reputation as Russia's most student-friendly university for Indian medical aspirants.

Recognised for its supportive environment and strong academic programs, MarSU goes beyond textbooks -- offering Indian students a home away from home through cultural exchange and community engagement.

This year, Indian medical students Hanshika Swamireddi Ravi and Sathyasri Rajagopal brought Indian culture to life at the camp with interactive dance and tradition-sharing sessions, creating bonds that transcended language and nationality.

Sharing her experience, Hanshika said, "I had an amazing experience teaching at the kids' camp! The kids were energetic and curious, and I loved seeing them learn and grow. What I liked most was the creative activities and the way the camp fostered teamwork and friendship among the kids."

Sathyasri echoed the sentiment and added, "I had a wonderful experience teaching at the kids' camp this year. The program was well-organised, and the daily schedule provided a good balance between learning, creative activities, and free play. A highlight for me was watching the children take initiative, whether in group projects, performances, or problem-solving tasks. I look forward to participating again in the future."

University officials emphasised that MarSU's welcoming environment, combined with robust academic infrastructure, makes it the top choice for Indian students seeking an internationally recognised medical degree. Beyond academics, programs like "Languages of Friendship" ensure that students feel culturally connected and socially engaged throughout their education.

As the camp concluded, one message stood out: friendship knows no borders, and Mari State University continues to be a home away from home for Indian medical aspirants.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
A city councillor has confirmed there is not a man trapped inside the Chicago Bean.

Brendan Reilly, a Chicago alderman, said the rumour about the citys sculpture meant his office had been inundated with calls from concerned citizens.

Earlier this month, a small group of protesters gathered at the stainless steel artwork, chanting: There is a man in the Bean and What do we want? The man to get out.

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They handed out leaflets claiming the mans existence had been kept secret from Chicago residents for more than two decades, and brandished signs calling for officials to unlock Cloud Gate, as the art installation is formally known.

People who claim a man is trapped inside Cloud Gate stage a protest - @maninbean

When asked by local news why they believed a man was trapped in the Bean, a member of the group claimed they could see a faint outline of a man when the light hits just right and youre looking from the perfect angle.

An Instagram account dedicated to pushing the hoax had gained some 35,000 followers as of Wednesday.

Mr Reilly, whose ward is home to the Bean  created in the mid-2000s by the Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor  said the rumours had become a distraction from his work as a councillor.

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I am happy to confirm that a man has not been trapped inside Cloud Gate (aka the Bean) for the past 21 years, he said.

Mr Reilly continued: I appreciate light-hearted parody as much as the next guy, and Ive always welcomed public engagement.

However, this online hoax has led to a heavy uptick in calls to my office.

Unfortunately, answering the heavy volume of calls regarding this hoax is ultimately a distraction for my office from the real work we do for the 42nd Ward and City of Chicago each day.

Cloud Gate was created in the mid-2000s by the Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor - Chicago Public Library

At least one leaflet by The Man in Bean Coalition, which is pushing the rumour, urges people to call Mr Reilly to demand he immediately take action to free the man, and includes his offices phone number.

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The group, which has been approached for comment by The Telegraph, claimed in statements to media outlets that its position was being misrepresented by Big Bean Media.

The group claims that Mr Kapoor stole a baby and put that baby inside of The Bean when he created it, according to its literature.

Our cohort of believers theorise that Kapoor built the Bean to be a one-way mirror. So that when we look at the Bean, we see our reflection But the man inside the Bean looks out to see us all, the group said.



Mr Kapoor has been approached for comment via his studio.

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 second Tuesday of August is one of the most important days for local non-profits.

Thousands of people from near and far donate to local 501C3 non-profits for the annual Erie Gives Day.

JET 24s own Craig Flint gets dunked for donations on Erie Gives Day

There are 539 organizations participating in their 15th year, which is their largest number to date.

Non-profits touch everybody every day. On this day, many of the non-profits raise their unrestricted funding for the year, said Karen Bilowith, president and CEO of the Erie Community Foundation.

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Bilowith said these funds are critical because non-profits can use them however theyd like to meet their greatest needs

The Erie Community Foundation raised $9.7 million in 2024, and although they dont like to set a monetary goal, Bilowith said they hope they can reach the $10 million mark.

There are no fees on our gifts this year. The credit card fees and online platform fees have been covered this year by our bonus bucks pool, and we raised enough through our generous corporate sponsors that we actually will still have matching funds for every non-profit gift that comes in, said Bilowith.

The Erie Community Foundation staff plan for this day weeks in advance.

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They have a strategic system complete with those helping non-profits promote, those who collect checks and those who are set to answer phones all day.

The Erie Gives phone bank is live from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and if you miss that time, you can head to their website to donate until midnight.

Crawford Gives fundraising event officially kicks off

With a lot of them losing federal funding, having tougher times, erie gives is like a boost in the arm, and when we all give a little, it adds up to a lot, and thats what we call the power of collective giving, said Erin Fessler, vice president of marketing and communications along with government relations for the Erie Community Foundation.

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To celebrate the day, the Erie Community Foundation held a block party at their location on West 6th Street, as well as a Sweet Treat Social.

Thanks to our community that comes out in numbers to support this event every year, said Bilowith.

If youd like to donate, call 814-454-0843 or 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
South Carolina's primary organ procurement organization could have to stop working under a newly enforced federal rule nonprofit leaders call unfair. (Photo by Getty Images)

COLUMBIA  More than 300 South Carolinians donated organs last year. Under a federal rule newly set for enforcement, the nonprofit that coordinates transplants across most of the state could fold, putting lives in the hands of out-of-state coordinators, the groups leaders said.

We Are Sharing Hope SC ranks among the lowest-performing organ procurement organizations in the country under the 2022 rule, which was meant to ensure as many viable organs as possible are transplanted.

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But the rating is an unfair measure in a state where so many people lack health care, said David DeStefano, the nonprofits president.

If federal regulators shut down the organization  Sharing Hope for short  nonprofits from other states would be able to make their case to the federal government as to why they should take over South Carolinas organ donations, a role that involves talking to families, getting donors to transplant centers and finding hospitals with patients able to receive the donated organs.

According to the federal agency responsible for the new rule, the change is a way of pushing organ procurement organizations to do better after years of little oversight and no competition. If a procurement organization isnt meeting federal standards, then another should come in and make changes, according to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

But replacing Sharing Hope and its 100 employees wont solve the problems the state-specific nonprofit is facing. It could instead cause disruptions in the system, potentially leading to fewer people deciding to donate, DeStefano said.

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Sharing Hopes federal contract covers all but two of the states counties. Donations from Edgefield and Aiken counties are handled by LifeLink Georgia. They are among 56 such nonprofits nationwide.

I can imagine few things worse than having an (organ procurement organization) from out of this state who doesnt understand the intricacies, the subtleties, the culture, the people, the environment, trying to run something as intimate and personal as end-of-life donation, DeStefano said.

More than organs

Sharing Hope was there as soon as 4-year-old Bo Worthys parents decided they wanted to donate his organs.

Bo Worthy, an organ donor who died in July 2025, with a favorite blanket. (Provided/Rainee Brewer)

Worthy, an autistic child who loved blankets and had recently started speaking, drowned last month after climbing into the family pool.

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His parents found him unresponsive and rushed him to the hospital, where he was declared brain dead, said Rainee Brewer, Worthys second cousin and the familys designated spokesperson.

Sharing Hope representatives explained the process to Worthys parents, answered their questions and stayed in the hospital room as long as possible to make sure the grieving family had everything they needed, Brewer said.

When Worthys family decided to hold a donor walk, which generally involves friends and family walking a person from the hospital room to the operating room, Sharing Hope helped organize it. In Worthys case, more than 300 people showed up to give him a sendoff. So Sharing Hope employees fit them all in the hospitals hallways to greet Worthys hospital bed as it wheeled past, Brewer said.

A Sharing Hope representative even drove to Bojangles restaurants in search of signs printed with the companys slogan, Its Bo Time, which had become a common saying among the family.

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I felt like (Sharing Hope) really got us through one of the toughest and hardest weeks of our lives, Brewer said. I dont know if we would have actually been able to do that without them.

That work represents the procurement organizations central mission, DeStefano said.

The ultimate goal, of course, is for the organs donated to end up with a patient in need, but the procurement organization also plays a major role in guiding families through the donation process and coordinating with hospitals to be sure the organ arrives safely, he said.

He worries whether a nonprofit from another state would have that same touch for the people it serves, or the relationships with hospitals to meet those sorts of requests.

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We are kind of the conduit to that process, DeStefano said.

A foggy lens

An estimated 4,100 people nationally die each year while waiting for an organ transplant, according to the federal Health Resources and Services Administration. At the same time, 28,000 organs that might have helped those people and others went unused, a 2017 study found.

Part of the problem was that organ procurement organizations falling below national standards had little reason to improve. The organizations operate essentially as government-granted monopolies, with little punishment for failing to meet standards and no competition to encourage better numbers, the study found.

Encouraging the nonprofits to pursue every organ, every time, as the study put it, was the main goal behind changing the way in which procurement organizations are judged, according to the rule. Under the change, regulators judge the organizations on how many potential donors had at least one organ transplanted, as well as how many organs set for donation successfully went to a recipient. The calculations are based on death certificates.

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But DeStefano said those metrics fail to capture the complicated reality of organ donation.

We need improvement, DeStefano said. We need transparency. We need all of us to continue to get better. But we need to do it the right way.

The pool of potential organ donors starts out small, with about 3 in every 1,000 deaths qualifying for donation, according to the Heath Resources and Services Administration.

A persons age, health and manner of death  including whether they died in the hospital  all matter for the viability of their organs, said Dr. Tim Whelan, a lung transplant surgeon and medical advisor for Sharing Hope. Any person under the age of 75 who dies of heart failure, a loss of blood flow to the brain, or a cause unrelated to their own health  such as a drug overdose, suicide or drowning  counts as a potential donor under the new rule.

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That puts an aging, unhealthy, rural state such as South Carolina at a disadvantage, DeStefano and Whelan said.

Last year in South Carolina, 1,141 deceased patients either registered ahead of their deaths or had family members agree to donation. Sharing Hope transplanted organs from 305 people, about one-quarter of the total possible, according to the nonprofits annual report.

A transplant center might reject a patients organs for any number of reasons, Whelan said.

Patients may die of a heart attack, making them a potential donor. But if they die far from a hospital, their organs deteriorate before they can be donated. Patients may have a medical condition not listed on their death certificate that disqualifies them from donating. And patients without access to health care may die with an undetected or untreated disease that wreaked havoc on their organs to the point theyre no longer viable.

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All of those cases would count against Sharing Hope, even if the reasoning was out of the nonprofits control, Whelan and DeStefano said.

Thats been one of my great frustrations, is we are a great organization thats not getting the credit because were looked at through a foggy lens, DeStefano said.

The changes are not meant to hurt procurement organizations but to ensure that donated organs are not wasted and reach those waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, the rule reads.

The number of donors has gone up in the years since the rule went into effect. In 2021, 24 of the nations 56 organ procurement nonprofits fell into the lowest of three performance tiers. By 2023, the most recent data available, that had dropped to 10.

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Sharing Hope is one of those 10.

These 10 organ procurement organizations are at risk of losing certification:

Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency

Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency (Florida)

Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency

The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland

New Mexico Donor Services

LifeLink of Puerto Rico

We Are Sharing Hope SC

Mid-South Transplant Foundation (Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee)

Texas Organ Sharing Alliance

LifeNet Health (Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia)

Source: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

It is our goal to ensure that (organ procurement organizations) are held to a high level of performance expectations and that all (procurement organizations) are pushed to perform better, the rule reads.

What happens next

What Sharing Hope really needs is more donors.

During a review of its 2023 transplants, regulators determined that 46 more donors would be the difference between automatically losing certification and being able to make its case for remaining in charge of the states donations, according to federal data.

Last year, Sharing Hope received organs from 305 donors living and dead, the most in its history. Whether the nonprofit will reach the threshold to keep operating next year is unclear. Whelan was optimistic that the organization had improved enough to make the cut, while DeStefano remained unsure.

The nonprofits leaders are wary of putting too much pressure on families to donate in order to satisfy federal regulators. By design, organ procurement organizations are not meant to face the same performance pressures as hospitals so that families feel more freedom to make their own decisions, DeStefano said.

Coordinators could also try to be more selective about donors in an effort to bolster the ratio of organs the nonprofit successfully transplants, but that could mean missing out on a one-in-a-million match that doesnt necessarily look good on paper, Whelan said.

For instance, Sharing Hope usually avoids transplanting smokers lungs, but every once in a while, one fits a patient who has otherwise been difficult to match, he said. If that lung worked out, it could save a persons life. If it didnt, that would ding the nonprofits score with federal regulators, Whelan said.

Short of changing the way organ donations are measured, giving the nonprofit more resources could be a better way of improving its numbers than trying to start over completely, Whelan and DeStefano said. Over the years, the nonprofits staff has built relationships with hospitals, which a new organization would have to rebuild, Whelan said.

Organ donation is such a personal decision, he worries bringing in a new organization could fracture peoples trust in the system, leading in turn to fewer organ donations, he said.

The goal really should be to try to give us the tools to improve on those metrics, Whelan said.

Sharing Hopes work goes far beyond the hospital or the transplant center. After Worthys donation, staff members sent his parents letters to tell them where his heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas ended up.

Worthys heart continues to beat in a 9-month-old baby, Brewer said.

That child has life because of Bo, Brewer said. That in itself is a beautiful thing.

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DENVER (KDVR)  Joel Lang was in court, accused of hitting, dragging and eventually killing Kirsty Kerst at a Monument McDonalds drive-through in 2024. Lang, who turned himself in after police sent out a bulletin with his vehicle in the image, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

His charges were dropped after he was found incompetent to stand trial earlier this month.

5 years after deadly Brighton machete attack, suspect still hasnt faced a jury

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This really has changed our entire lives. There is no going back to normal for us. This is our normal. Were standing up to fight against injustice, and thats not a small thing, Kersts daughter Britany Visage said.

The Kerst family is now part of an advocacy group asking for a change in Colorados competency laws.

I dont want this to keep happening to other peoples, to other people. What happened to our mom really is devastating. But to be able to have this situation stop for other families, thats the main goal, Kersts daughter Hanna Kerst said.

The family is not alone, joined by Dante White. Whites son was the target of an attempted kidnapping by nearly kidnapped by Carmen Galligan, previously known as Solomon Galligan, who is a registered sex offender. The incident was caught on video near Black Forest Elementary School in Aurora.

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Galligans charges were dropped last week because doctors ruled Galligan, too, has a chronic medical condition and will never be competent to stand trial.

Id be lying if I didnt say Id be, you know, that Im pissed off. Im mad, right? Its just going to happen again, you know, and thats the truth. Hes not going to get the help that he needs, Smith said.

The group is organizing a movement to try and get lawmakers attention, calling out district attorneys to pressure their elected officials in the upcoming special session to reconsider legislation passed in the past year.

Crime continues to frustrate residents after police name potential Cherry Creek car break-in suspect

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FOX 31 reached out to two local district attorneys about these pleas.

District Attorney George Brauchler of Colorados 23rd Judicial District sent a statement saying in part:

No sane person could view Colorados current competency legislation as anything other than bonkers. It prioritizes keeping criminals of all kinds on our streets, near our schools and in our parksdespite believing they are so messed up, they cannot understand the basics of how our court system works.

FOX 31 also reached out to the governors office, and they sent the following statement:

Dangerous criminals should never be released onto the streets. We want to work with everyone to determine if there are additional reforms that should be made to ensure that people who could potentially endanger others or themselves are not threatening public safety. Governor Polis is committed to making Colorado communities safer, and hes signed a number of laws to do that, including providing more resources to local law enforcement, cracking down on auto and gun theft, and supporting crime prevention.

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Its unclear if the topic will be broached during the upcoming special session.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Dr. Devdutta Sangvai, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, talks with N.C. state Sen. Kevin Corbin after a Senate committee meeting. (Photo: Lynn Bonner/NC Newsline)

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will slash Medicaid spending by $319 million effective Oct. 1, Secretary Devdutta Dev Sangvai wrote in a letter to General Assembly leaders Monday.

That reduction  coming in response to a shortfall in the state budget and changes to Medicaid policy in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act  means the state will reduce rates by 3% to all medical providers, as well as cuts of 8% to 10% for inpatient and residential services and 10% for behavioral therapy and analysis for patients with autism.

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In the letter obtained by NC Newsline, Sangvai wrote that while NCDHHS requested $819 million for the 2025-26 Medicaid rebase  the states calculation of required costs for the Medicaid program, accounting for growth in enrollment, increases in drug prices, and other factors  just $500 million was appropriated for those purposes, requiring widespread reductions.

To meet an effective date of October 1, we must begin several administrative steps now, including notifying providers and beneficiaries, updating contracts and systems, and informing our federal partners at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Sangvai wrote. We have attempted to make these cuts reversible in the event that additional funding is approved. Absent additional appropriations by the General Assembly, however, NCDHHS will proceed with the reductions described herein.

As part of a stopgap budget signed by Gov. Josh Stein on Aug. 6, the General Assembly appropriated $600 million for Medicaid, $500 million of which will go to the rebase and $82 million of which will go to the Medicaid Managed Care Oversight Fund, which Sangvai wrote still has a $33 million deficit. The remaining $18 million will make up for what he called a missing LME/MCO transfer, referring to the Local Management Entity/Managed Care Organizations that manage some Medicaid services.

The letter also outlines plans to entirely cease optional coverage for GLP-1s, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy commonly prescribed for weight loss. GLP-1s will continue to be covered when prescribed for other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. NCDHHS will also pull funding for the Integrated Care for Kids Pilot, which will end ahead of schedule, a spokesperson wrote in an emailed statement.

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Sangvai also indicated administrative cuts ahead, including ending or reducing contracts, letting temporary employees go, and ending some quality control and compliance functions. These cuts will significantly impair NC Medicaids ability to be responsive to emerging needs and inquiries, monitor services for quality and compliance, and continue making timely operational improvements, he wrote.

Despite careful efforts to minimize harm, the reductions now required carry serious and far-reaching consequences. Most immediately, reduced rates and the elimination of services could drive providers out of the Medicaid program, threatening access to care for those who need it most, Sangvai wrote. NCDHHS remains hopeful that additional appropriations can be made to prevent these reductions.

In a statement to NC Newsline, NCDHHS spokesperson Summer Tonizzo wrote that the appropriation shortfall will result in cuts to services and reductions to provider rates to stay within budget.

All Medicaid providers will face a minimum 3% reduction in reimbursement rates, with some services  including physicians, hospice care, behavioral health long-term care, and nursing home services  seeing steeper cuts of 8% and 10%, Tonizzo wrote. These reductions may cause some providers to stop accepting Medicaid patients, as the lowered rates could make it financially unsustainable to continue offering care.

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Tonizzo reiterated Sangvais comment that NCDHHS has attempted to make these cuts reversible in the event that additional funding is approved.

A spokesperson for Steins office wrote that he continues to urge the legislature to pass a complete budget and make up for the shortfall in the Medicaid rebase.

The Governor has been clear since March that the General Assembly needs to fully fund the Medicaid rebase, and he recently reiterated his concern when their Band-Aid budget fell $319 million short of what is needed to fund North Carolinians health care, the spokesperson wrote. Governor Stein continues to urge the legislature to do its job and pass a budget that stops these forced cuts.

This story will be updated.

Read the full letter to lawmakers here:

Medicaid Rebase NCGA Letter
CLAYTON, Mo.  A North Carolina man is accused of flying from his home state to St. Louis, renting a vehicle at the airport, and then stealing mail from blue collection boxes in Sunset Hills.

According to the Sunset Hills Police Departments probable cause statement, the thefts happened on June 6 and July 1.

Investigators learned that a Chrysler, which had been rented from St. Louis Airport, was used in the June 6 theft. A Toyota Camry, also rented from the airport, was used in the second theft.

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Police said various pieces of mail, including checks, were stolen.

I actually still have goosebumps: Family of 3-year-old who died at daycare reacts to charges

Zymonte J. Gaynor, 27, rented both vehicles at the airport, police said. Flight records show Gaynor had arrived at the airport shortly before each rental and rented each vehicle before the thefts.

The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Gaynor with two counts of stealing  postal or delivery item. Online Missouri court records do not show when Gaynor will appear before a local judge.

At present, Gaynor is in custody in North Carolina for 75 counts of felony financial fraud.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Emily Thompson, right, legal division director for Legislative Council, speaks during a committee meeting next to John Bjornson, director of Legislative Council, on Aug. 13, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

Lawmakers are considering a bill to clarify the legislative veto process after Gov. Kelly Armstrongs office appeared to accidentally line-item veto housing funding in May.

Armstrong in his veto message indicated he was vetoing $150,000 the 2025 Legislature set aside for a Native American homelessness liaison, but a staff member also crossed out $25 million for affordable housing and $10 million for homelessness in the bill markup.

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The legislative and executive branches disagreed over how to interpret the line-item veto, leading to a larger dispute over the scope of the governors veto power.

The interim Legislative Procedure and Arrangements Committee on Wednesday advanced a bill draft lawmakers say will prevent similar conflicts from arising in the future.

The draft legislation would make it so that when a governors line-item veto message and bill markup conflict, the markup would be considered the authority on what the veto actually does. This is in contrast to a recent opinion by Attorney General Drew Wrigley that found that the bill markups are visual aids and do not change the substance of a veto.

The proposed bill would also provide more specific instructions on what should be included in each veto and which officials the governors office would send copies of the veto to.

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We dont see this as infringing on the governors veto power in any way, Emily Thompson, legal division director for Legislative Council, said of the draft during the meeting.

The Legislative Procedure and Arrangements Committee voted to forward the proposal to Legislative Management.

The committee on Wednesday also discussed a bill draft to create a more formal mechanism for calling special sessions to override vetoes by the governor after the legislative session adjourns.

Legislative Council proposed a system where lawmakers are polled 21 days after the session on whether they want to reconvene for a veto override session.

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The idea received a mixed response from committee members, in part because lawmakers only get 80 legislative days each biennium.

Lets say weve set aside three days  thats all we have left  and were coming back to override a bill that really isnt a substantial bill, Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, R-Minot, said. We dont want to burn our days just to override that.

Sen. Kristin Roers, R-Fargo, suggested earmarking a day well in advance for lawmakers to handle potential post-session vetoes.

For people like me who have to return to a day job and your boss would like to know what day youre going to be gone, there is some benefit for having that future date pre-scheduled, she said. We can always cancel it.

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The committee asked Legislative Council to prepare an amended bill draft to reflect Roers suggestion for consideration at its next meeting.

Some lawmakers on Wednesday said the two bill drafts are also a way to address what they view as a separation of powers issue raised by the attorney generals opinion on Armstrongs line-item veto.

The opinion, issued in June, found that the accidental markup didnt create any problems because Armstrong was clear in his memo about what he intended to veto.

Legislators voiced concerns that the opinion could give the Governors Office and Attorney Generals Office broad discretion to decide the meaning of unclear vetoes.

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We want to make sure that theres a balance, that the legislative branch is not losing any authority, House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson, said during Wednesdays meeting.

The Attorney Generals Office on Wednesday said it was not aware of the proposed legislation and did not have a position on it. The Governors Office also declined to comment on the legislation.

Legislative Councils attorneys said previously in their own analysis that Wrigleys opinion conflicts with legal precedent, including previous rulings by the North Dakota Supreme Court.

They wrote that the Legislature could hold a special session and override the veto, though lawmakers have signaled they dont intend to go that route. Wrigley previously called Legislative Councils analysis a political document and said the agency doesnt get to decide the scope of the governors authority.

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The Office of Management and Budget has already allocated the money at issue in the veto. The agency in an email last month confirmed it dispersed the $34.85 million to the Housing Finance Agency on July 1.

North Dakota Monitor reporter Mary Steurer can be reached at msteurer@northdakotamonitor.com.

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Maria Rosa Nieves, a member of Capitol Security under the North Dakota Highway Patrol, screens a visitor at the public entrance to the Capitol on Aug. 13, 2025. North Dakota legislators are discussing ways to enhance lawmaker security. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

North Dakota legislators are working to bolster security measures in response to shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers.

Senate Minority Leader Kathy Hogan, D-Fargo, recommended during a committee discussion Wednesday that legislators adopt an official process to report threats.

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Ive been threatened many times, and it rolls off me, but for some people, the first time they get threatened, its very frightening, Hogan said. She said some lawmakers have thick skin and dont report those incidents, but she suggested that should change after the killings in Minnesota.

Then, if we get a pattern, were sensitive about it, Hogan said during the Legislative Procedure and Arrangements Committee. Weve had to think differently than were ever had to think, and thats the sad part.

The discussion Wednesday came in response to the June 14 assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, who were killed in their Brooklyn Park home. Another state lawmaker, Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times but survived. Vance Boelter was apprehended after a 42-hour manhunt and faces six felony charges.

In the aftermath of those attacks, a North Dakota man was charged with sending threatening messages to at least one U.S. official and other state officials. The threats by Charles Dalzell of St. Thomas referenced the Minnesota shootings, court records say. A jury trial is set for this fall.

Legislative Council has accumulated a mailbox full of letters and numerous voicemails from the man, Director John Bjornson said.

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It is something that is fairly common that we deal with on a regular basis, Bjornson said.

Speaker of the House Rep. Robin Weisz, R-Hurdsfield, said he received a threat from Dalzell.

I dont know how he got my cellphone number, Weisz said. He was ranting and raving about the governor and how I need to force the governor to follow the law.

Weisz said he explained to the man that he does not control the governor or the state courts, which prompted the man to hang up.

Weisz said he didnt report the matter to law enforcement, but said he should have followed up with the governor.

Separately, Weisz said hes received emails threatening his children.

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Ive even had an email where a lady said, I just want you to know, I know where you live, and so I emailed her back and said, Great, when can I expect you? Never heard from her again, he said.

Weisz said he will not be intimidated or bullied for representing his district in the Legislature.

Any reports of threats against lawmakers received by Legislative Council are reported to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Bjornson said.

Emily Thompson, director of the legal division for Legislative Council, said a more in-depth discussion on lawmaker security will continue at the next committee meeting. Immediately following the Minnesota attacks, Legislative Council removed home addresses of North Dakota lawmakers from the Legislatures website. Other measures being discussed include providing post office boxes for lawmaker mail and offering safety training.

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Here in North Dakota, weve just taken our security somewhat for granted, said Sen. Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden, committee chair.

North Dakota Monitor reporter Michael Achterling can be reached at machterling@northdakotamonitor.com.

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine, the countries state media said Wednesday, ahead of Putins planned meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska.

Putin during the call on Tuesday praised the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by North Korean troops as they fought with Russian forces to repel a Ukrainian incursion into Russias Kursk border region, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said.

Putin also shared with Kim information about his upcoming talks with Trump scheduled to take place Friday in Alaska, according to Russias TASS news agency, citing the Kremlin. The North Korean reports did not mention the Trump meeting.

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Kim told Putin that Pyongyang will fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too, as they discussed advancing ties in all fields under a strategic partnership agreement they signed during a summit last year, KCNA said.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Kim has made Moscow the priority of his foreign policy as he aims to break out of diplomatic isolation and expand relations with countries confronting Washington. His government has dismissed Washington and Seouls stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the Norths nuclear program, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit with Trump during his first term.

According to South Korean assessments, North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last fall and also supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Putins war efforts against Ukraine. Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Russias Kursk region, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.
A Union Pacific train traveling in North Texas derailed on Tuesday afternoon.

The train was around two miles east of Gordon in Palo Pinto County when nearly three dozen cars jumped the track, with sparks from the derailment causing nearby grass to catch on fire. Despite carrying potentially hazardous chemicals, none of the cars leaked, says Kent Farquhar, assistant fire chief for Palo Pinto County Emergency Services District 1.

Farquhar told WFAA there were Lots of reasons to be thankful.

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Derailments are always very fluid. You never know whats going to happen. They could be stable one moment and unstable the next.

The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on Tuesday near the intersection of Coalville Road and Highway 193, near Interstate 20, just under 100 miles east of Dallas.

The first crews to respond to the derailment identified cars containing hydrochloric acid, propane, and fuel, according to Farquahr.

Two dangerous chemicals  one flammable and one caustic, he said.

Once the cars were confirmed not to be leaking, the crews turned their attention to fighting the fires started by the derailment.

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The fires werent that big, but we didnt want to take any chances, Farquhar said.

Despite the small blazes, some fires continued to flare up further away even hours later. However, the incident did not prompt calls for evacuations.

While two firefighters experienced issues because of the heat, none needed to be taken to the hospital.

Later that evening, around 9 p.m., heavy equipment was brought in to prepare for the removal of the rail cars from the track. The cleanup is expected to take several days.

So far, no cause for the derailment has been provided.

Around two months ago, The Dallas Express reported on another Union Pacific derailment in North Texas. On June 9, several train cars came off the tracks in Downtown Waxahachie just before midnight. While no injuries were reported, the incident startled nearby residents and led to road closures and a complex cleanup operation.
VMPL New Delhi [India], August 13: BluPine Energy Private Limited (henceforth BluPine Energy), an Actis-backed leading renewable energy platform, has been officially certified as a Great Place to Work by the Great Place to Work Institute a global authority on workplace culture. his prestigious recognition reflects BluPine Energy's commitment to cultivating a high-trust, inclusive, and performance-driven environment where people are empowered to grow, lead, and thrive. The certification is awarded after a careful assessment based on employee feedback and evaluation of the company's people practices. To qualify, an organization must secure at least 70% positive responses across five core dimensions trust in leadership, fairness, pride, respect, and camaraderie. Commenting on the achievement, Neerav Nanavaty, CEO, BluPine Energy, said, "Being certified as a Great Place to Work is a strategic milestone for BluPine Energy as it reinforces our belief that a strong, people-first culture is foundational to sustainable business growth. This recognition reflects not only the trust our teams place in us, but also our collective commitment to building an organisation where leadership, innovation, and impact thrive. At BluPine, we are intentionally creating an environment that empowers individuals to lead with purpose, drive transformative change, and contribute meaningfully to India's clean energy transition." Manisha Nair, Senior Vice President & Head - Human Resource, Administration & Corporate Communications, BluPine Energy added, "This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our employees. It validates our efforts to nurture a culture where people feel respected, valued, and motivated to do their best work. We are committed to continuously listening to our teams, evolving our practices, and investing in their holistic well-being." The certification comes at a pivotal time as BluPine Energy scales its presence in India's renewable energy sector. While accelerating its impact in clean energy, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to building a purpose-driven, people-centric culture--one that empowers individuals to perform at their best and collectively shape a more sustainable future. About BluPine Energy BluPine Energy is a leading renewable energy platform established in India by Actis, a global investor and leader in sustainable infrastructure. With an $800 million commitment from Actis' Energy Fund 5, BluPine Energy is developing a robust 4+ GW clean energy portfolio dedicated exclusively to India. BluPine Energy is an ISO-certified company, having obtained certifications under ISO 9001 for Quality, ISO 45001 for Safety, and ISO 14001 for Environment. (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)
Gordin oversaw the year-long war with Hezbollah, which included intense fighting along the northern border, as well as heavy drone and rocket fire.

Israel's northern military leadership made a strategic mistake in allowing Hezbollah to grow along the northern border, outgoing Northern Command commander Major General Uri Gordin admitted on Wednesday during his changeover ceremony.

Major General Rafi Milo, former Home Front Command head, is assuming his position.

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"This was an operational and strategic mistake on my part and that of my predecessors  a serious mistake that must not be repeated!" Gordin said.

"The north is safer today than it has been in decades. This is the time to upgrade and bring about prosperity and growth; this is a national opportunity," Gordin said.

Gordin, who is said to be pursuing further academic education, is expected to be in the running for the position of IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir's second-in-command.

IDF Northern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Uri Gordin attends the official state memorial ceremony of the Battle of Tel Hai, in Kfar Giladi, Upper Galilee, March 11, 2025. (credit: AYAL MARGOLIN/FLASH90)

Maj.-Gen. David Zini was in the running for being Gordin's replacement.

Gordin oversaw war with Hezbollah

Gordin oversaw the year-long war with Hezbollah, which included intense fighting along the northern border, as well as heavy drone and rocket fire.

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah was signed on November 27 of last year following intense mediation efforts led by the United States.

Amir Bohbot contributed to this report.
By Nerijus Adomaitis

ARENDAL, Norway (Reuters) -Russian hackers briefly took control of a dam in Norway earlier this year, the head of the Nordic country's counter-intelligence agency said on Wednesday, the first time Oslo has officially attributed the cyberattack to its neighbour.

While in command of the dam in Bremanger, western Norway, on April 7, the hackers opened a flood gate and released 500 litres (132 gallons) of water per second for four hours before the attack was detected and stopped, authorities previously said.

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No one was injured during the attack.

Norway produces most of its electricity via hydropower dams, and intelligence authorities have previously warned of the risk of attacks on its energy infrastructure.

"Over the past year, we have seen a change in activity from pro-Russian cyber actors," Beate Gangaas, head of Norway's PST security police agency, said in a speech.

The incident at Bremanger was one such activity, Gangaas added.

"The aim of this type of operation is to influence and to cause fear and chaos among the general population," she said. "Our Russian neighbour has become more dangerous."

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The Russian embassy in Oslo said Gangaas' declarations were "unfounded and politically motivated".

"It is obvious that the PST is unsuccessfully trying to substantiate the mythical threat of Russian sabotage against Norwegian infrastructure this year, which it itself invented in its February (annual) report," it said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

Last September, Britain's spy chief accused Russia of waging a "staggeringly reckless campaign" of sabotage in Europe, partly to scare European countries from helping Ukraine. Moscow denies the allegation.

After her speech, Gangaas told Reuters that she was going public with the attribution to warn the general population and to try to prevent Russia from launching further attacks.

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"I want Norwegians to be prepared," she said in an interview.

NATO-member Norway shares a border with Russia in the Arctic. Like the other Nordic countries, it is a staunch supporter of Ukraine. It is also Europe's largest supplier of gas, which is mostly transported via a network of pipelines under the North Sea.

(Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis; writing by Gwladys Fouche; editing by Christina Fincher and Leslie Adler)
PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI)  Firefighters never really know what a shift will bring, but for a group with the Pawtucket Fire Department, this summer brought a rare string of calls theyll never forget.

Every shift starts the same: check the truck, check your equipment, and be ready for anything. However, calls dont always go as expected, and crews often respond to emergencies where the outcome isnt positive.

Most days, its the usual rollover crash or kitchen fire, which are calls firefighter Ray Johnston describes as the bread and butter of the job.

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Though sometimes, there are calls that stand out for all the right reasons.

This year, in just over two months, Pawtucket firefighters helped deliver healthy babies  not one, not two, but three times.

First delivery  May 30

Right at the start of summer, firefighters Joe Heeps and Jack Donahue were dispatched to help a woman in labor.

Donahue arrived on scene first and quickly realized the baby wasnt going to wait long.

The mom looked at me and said she had the urge to push, which, anybody thats in our field knows that means the baby is coming. Its on its way, Donahue recalled.

Once Heeps and his partner, Jake Morgan, made it on scene, they determined it was safe to head to the hospital. Just as they pulled into the parking lot, the delivery began.

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Within a very short time, the baby was here and we were right out front of the hospital at that point so everything worked out perfect, Heeps said, adding that the delivery went smoothly.

While the delivery went smoothly, both firefighters described that quick ride to the hospital as the longest ten minutes any of us have ever experienced.

We all felt the emotion of the whole thing at that point where we had a second to breathe and think about what we just did Donahue added.

L to R: Jack Donahue and Joe Heeps

A few weeks later, the firefighters reunited with the healthy baby girl and her family.

It was actually really nice to be able to see the positive outcome that we had, Heeps said. We usually dont get to see that a lot.

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The call was even more memorable for Heeps as he and his wife would welcome their first child on July 30.

Second delivery  July 9

Just after 2:20 a.m., firefighters Tom Mancini and Joe Santarpio were returning from another call when they were dispatched for a woman in labor.

When Mancini was first on the scene and when he went inside, he saw the woman on the bathroom floor in active labor.

He told me, babys coming, so I just grabbed the necessary things  everything to try and make the mom and baby as comfortable as possible, Santarpio said.

L to R: Joe Santarpio, Tom Mancini

This baby had no time to wait, not even for a ride to the hospital or for the rest of the crews to arrive.

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I ended up grabbing a towel off their towel rack to catch the baby with and wrap, Mancini recalled. I just remember delivering the baby and looking up to see the engine company and Joe in the doorway of the bathroom looking at me.

Fortunately, the delivery was another success, free from complications.

It took her a couple seconds to cry. It feels like an eternity trying to stimulate and hear that cry, but once you do its a very rewarding sound, Mancini added.

READ ALSO: Central Falls firefighters help woman give birth in apartment

Third delivery  August 4

Last week, crews were called around 4:15 a.m. for a woman having contractions.

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When they arrived, firefighter Matt Dallaire thought he was speaking with the patient outside  until she told him her sister was upstairs giving birth.

We rushed upstairs and by what we were looking at, I knew that we were going to be delivering the baby there, Dallaire said.

By the time the rest of the crew reached the kitchen, firefighter Tom Mancini was kneeling on the floor with the newborn already crying.

I remember Matt being so thankful that I arrived, Mancini said. Thank God youre here I think was his direct quote.

For Andrew Donnelly, Aug. 4 was quite the day as he wrapped up his first-ever shift with the delivery.

L to R: Matt Dallaire, Andrew Donnelly, Ray Johnston, Tom Mancini, Austin Reid

Some firefighters have prior experience with other departments, but combined, the group has about 40 years with the Pawtucket Fire Department, plus Donnellys first day.

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Being that it is so different from our normal runs, something special like bringing life into the world is a rare thing to do in our field, Donahue said. Thats not something that any of us took lightly and not something any of us will forget probably for the rest of our lives.

To the departments knowledge, all three mothers and babies are now thriving.

In the video below, hear from firefighter Austin Reid, whose wife is currently seven months pregnant, about his experience helping with the August delivery.

NEXT: Viral TikTok shines light on local boys cancer battle

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At the beginning of Zach Creggers new horror film, Weapons, a spooky suburban fairy tale about the disappearance of 17 children, all blame is directed at the unmarried schoolteacher Justine (played by Julia Garner). Shes the prime suspectthe one unifying factor in an otherwise unexplainable event. Each of the 17 children appears to have voluntarily fled their home at 2:17 in the morning, running into the night with their arms stretched backwards like the wings of a paper airplane. Home-surveillance cameras captured their flight, attesting to the fact that no one forced them to fleebut why were they all members of Justines classroom? What was that woman doing to those children?

Over the years, movies such as Fatal Attraction and Single White Female, to name just a couple, have depicted chronic singledom as a condition that can make women obsessive, deranged, desperate to fill the void created by their unwantedness. But in these portrayals, its not just that solitude seems to warp the mind: These ladies appear to disturb some kind of natural orderand be more likely to crack. Today, a growing number of Americans are romantically uninvolved. Yet pop culture continues to fixate on these single women, with horror movies in particular framing them as duplicitous and unstablethreats to the public good.

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As he demonstrated in his previous feature, Barbarian, Cregger is interested in the dark forces rumbling under the surface of ordinary American lives. Weapons is set in a fictional Pennsylvania town, where the disappearance of the children sends the community reeling. School shuts down for a month, before resuming with no resolution. The police arent much help. Everyone seems to be processing the tragedy in different ways, which is matched by the films multi-perspectival structure. Townspeople such as Archer (Josh Brolin), the distraught father of one of the missing children, and Paul (Alden Ehrenreich), a lowly cop, are so fixated on their personal problems that they hinder the kind of collaborative action needed to save the children.

Its easier to villainize Justine, who is one of the only single women in the community. Archer, who displays vigilante tendencies, directs his rage toward Justine by digging up unsavory details from her past, such as a DUI charge, and nagging the police to further investigate her. An unseen stranger, heavily implied to be Archer, harasses Justine in her home, knocking on her front door and writing the word witch on the side of her car in stubborn red paint, forcing her to zoom around town branded with crimson letters. Grief-stricken parents and angry community members also revolt against her, pressuring the schools genial principal, Marcus (Benedict Wong), to do something about her.

Most people believe that Justine has done something wrong, though what, exactly, they cant explain. Women like her have been accused of being witches since the 13th century, perhaps because they deviate from maternal norms. In Weapons, Justines lack of a family reaffirms her culpability. Elementary-school teachers are educators, but theyre also parental figures. Across pop culture and in real life, mothers are supposed to do everything for their kidseven give their lives. Justine, who is as confused as anyone about what happened to those kids, seems most guilty to her neighbors because shes still alive.

[Read: Time for scary movies to make us laugh again]

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Depressed and paranoid after all this harassment, Justine succumbs to a bad drinking habit, going about her purgatorial days with a tumbler full of vodka. She also hits up Paul for a one-night standand when Pauls fiancee finds out, she comes charging after Justine at the liquor store. To the fiancee, Justine must seem like a total succubus. But for Justine, the hookup is a bid for some much-needed intimacy during a period of intense alienation. (Paul had also told her that his relationship was on the rocks.)

Weapons balances this grim realitythe black-and-white way the world sees Justine, who in turn is trying to keep afloatwith a dry sense of humor and Justines plucky resilience. She may be losing it, but she still takes it upon herself to play the sleuth, seeking out Alex Lilly (Cary Christopher), the one child in her class who didnt go missing. When she confronts him on the street, Alex runs off in a panic, but the exchange is genuinely motivated by Justines concern. Because of the films multiple points of view and Garners protean performance, were able to see how easily Justine takes on, or is foisted into, a variety of roles: nosy teacher, disgraced woman, forsaken lover.

Funnily enough, there is one other single lady in town, a recent transplant and a stranger to most: Alexs Aunt Gladys (Amy Madigan), a kooky spinster who wears bright, splotchy makeup. She knows no one and has nowhere to go before Alexs parents take her ina kind of nightmare scenario for down-on-love bachelorettes everywhere terrified of dying alone. Cregger has previously tapped into the unsettling power of old dames: In Barbarian, a monstrous old woman who is obsessed with children is a key villain. Other recent films such as The Substance and The Front Room have used similar figures to communicate female madness and explore insecurities about aging in a culture that glorifies physical youth.

Gladys, despite her perturbing getup, doesnt arouse as much suspicion as Justine, because she steps into a maternal role as Alexs caretaker. Justine, meanwhile, continues to be a perfect scapegoat. Still, she emerges as the films primary heroine, doggedly pursuing the truth of what happened to the kids. Its a brave choice; nobody would blame her for leaving town. But feared as she is for being a modern woman, shes brimming with personas and possibilitiessome of which prove useful for unraveling awful secrets.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
An upstate New York man made four calls threatening UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompsons family in the days after the executive was murdered in Midtown Manhattan, authorities said Wednesday.

Shane Daley, 40, of Galway, was charged with cyberstalking for the nasty calls, the Justice Department said in a press release.

Daley made his first call to Thompsons family in the hours after the murder, according to the feds. He then made one more call on each of the following three days, investigators said.

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In one of those calls, Daley allegedly told an unnamed Thompson family member, Your [relative] got lit the fk up cause hes a fking asshole. Profiting off the backs of poor Americans. This st is going to keep happening to you fking pricks. Fk you, according to the Albany Times-Union.

Daley threatened and harassed a grieving family in the immediate aftermath of a loved ones murder, interim Manhattan District Attorney Jay Clayton said in a press release. These selfish, harmful and callous actions undermine public safety and will not be tolerated.

Following his arraignment on Wednesday, Daley was released on several conditions, including that he wear a GPS monitor, undergo substance abuse treatment and have no contact with the Thompson family again.

Thompson, 50, was fatally shot on the morning of Dec. 4, 2024, while on his way to a meeting at the Residences Hilton Club on W. 54th St. near Sixth Ave.

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Accused killer, 27-year-old Luigi Mangione, is facing federal and state murder charges in connection with the attack.

Rather than sympathy, Thompsons murder sparked an outpouring of public anger at the health care industry. Disdain for U.S. insurance companies was allegedly Mangiones motive for the killing, as cops said they found a handwritten manifesto after arresting him.

Frankly, these parasites simply had it coming, the document read in part.

With Molly Crane-Newman
Editors note: The video above aired in a previous newscast.

NEW YORK (PIX11)  A New York man is accused of cyberstalking the family of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of New York announced Wednesday that he even expressed satisfaction with Thompsons death.

Shane Daley, 40, of Galway, N.Y., was arrested after harassing Thompsons family and leaving voicemails, starting just hours after Thompsons murder.

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Daley made multiple calls between December 4 and 7 to a work phone used by a family member of Thompson. In a series of messages, Daley used threatening language that focused on Thompsons killing, even expressing satisfaction with his death. He also stated that Thompsons children deserved to meet the same violent end, according to court documents.

Brian Thompson was gunned down in midtown Manhattan, said Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. Daley, as alleged, gleefully welcomed this tragedy and did all that he could to increase the Thompson familys pain and suffering.

Brian Thompson Murder

On December 4, 2024, Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was on his way to an investor conference when 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, driven by anger toward the U.S. healthcare system and corporate greed, allegedly shot him and then fled.

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Mangione was later captured and is currently facing federal charges of murder, stalking, and gun possession. He also faces charges from the state of New York.

If found guilty of cyberstalking, Daley faces a maximum term of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  Are you searching for job opportunities in New York City?

NYC Public Schools is looking to fill dozens of jobs for the upcoming school year, many of which do not require a college degree.

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School-based positions include community assistants, family workers, and school aides.

Community assistant

Job duties include assisting in school-based programs, planning student activities, and providing support for after-school performances or community engagement activities. Community assistants also serve as a school liaison to community groups for school-based community events.

Family worker

Job duties include making home contacts or visits, retaining records related to parent activity, and assuming administrative responsibilities, such as planning the nature of dates and arrangements for parents meetings and home visitation schedules.

School aide

Job duties include assisting with clerical work, handling the arrival and departure of children transported to school by bus, and supervising and leading children in daily activities, including entry, dismissal, lunch, and emergency drills.

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Click here to browse all job openings for NYC Public Schools.

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.
This article was originally published in Chalkbeat.

Reading and math scores shot up across New York Citys public schools last school year, according to state test results released Monday.

Among students in grades 3-8, nearly 57% of students were considered proficient in math, an increase of 3.5 percentage points. The gains were even sharper in reading. About 56% of students were proficient in the subject, a 7 percentage point increase.

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Those gains come after Mayor Eric Adams has made overhauling reading instruction his signature education priority, an effort that has won support from union leaders and even candidates vying to unseat Adams in this Novembers election. Top city officials argued Monday that their efforts are bearing fruit, as all elementary schools were required to use city-approved reading curriculums last school year through an initiative known as NYC Reads.

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This is what happens when we stay focused on evidence-based instruction and never lose sight of whats possible for our young people, schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos said in a statement.

Experts said the test score gains were encouraging, but cautioned that many factors can influence them and its impossible to isolate the effect of the curriculum overhauls.

Its at least suggestive that theres real improvement, said Aaron Pallas, a professor at Columbia Universitys Teachers College who has studied school performance and accountability systems. Results from a separate battery of assessments also hinted at some progress.

At the same time, Pallas noted test scores increased statewide by a similar magnitude as in New York City, which does tamp down a little bit that its something special New York City is doing. The citys overall proficiency rates are slightly higher than those statewide, where 53% of students are proficient in reading and 55% are proficient in math.

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City Education Department officials also mounted an aggressive test preparation effort last year targeting students who were at the cusp of passing the exams, which may have played a role in the test score increase. Some experts criticized that approach because it could create incentives for schools to focus on students close to proficiency rather than those furthest behind.

Officials noted that reading scores increased more sharply in earlier grades that were subject to the reading curriculum changes. There was an 11.6 percentage point jump in reading proficiency among students in grades 3-5 who were in the first phase of schools that started using the new curriculums two years ago. Among the second phase of schools, which implemented the curriculum changes last year, reading scores increased 10.4 percentage points.

Overall, Pallas said that more data is needed to draw firm conclusions about student proficiency over time. If theres real growth, it should be sustained. And that requires looking at scores over the next couple years, he said.

Michael Mulgrew, president of the teachers union, said in a statement that the test score increases are a testament to the hard work by New York City educators and our students. He singled out Aviles-Ramos, noting she fought the Education Department] bureaucracy to make sure the needs of students and school communities came first.

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The state test results continued to reflect deep disparities between different student groups, though in some cases those gaps narrowed somewhat.

Black students, for instance, posted the largest test score increases in reading and math in the citys public schools of any racial group. But they still lag their white and Asian American peers.

About 75% of Asian American students and 73% of white students were proficient in reading compared with 43.5% of Latino children and 47% of Black students. (Black students proficiency jumped about 8 percentage points.)

Meanwhile, nearly 81% of Asian American students and 75% of white students passed state math exams while only 43% of Black and Latino students were considered to be on grade level.

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Only 29% of students with disabilities were proficient in math and nearly 27% were in reading. Even as students with disabilities made some gains in reading and math, the gap between those children and their nondisabled peers widened slightly.

Among students learning English as a new language, nearly 30% were proficient in math and 12.5% were proficient in reading  a gain of more than 4 percentage points in both categories.

The state exams have undergone a series of tweaks in recent years that have sometimes made it difficult to draw comparisons from the results year over year. For the last two years, the tests have remained stable, meaning the results should be comparable.

The state Education Department has expanded computer-based testing in lieu of paper exams and all students will take digital versions of the test next school year. Pallas said it is unlikely that will dramatically skew the results, though some schools have struggled with glitchy platforms.

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Curious about school-level test results? Here is a searchable breakdown of math and English scores across all of the citys public schools. (Charter schools are included in the table but not in the districts overall numbers above.)

This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters. Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools.
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  A New York City student was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement during his hearing, Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos said.

Aviles-Ramos announced the incident in a post to X on Wednesday afternoon. She said the student, Mamadou Diallo, was attending an immigration hearing when he was detained.

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To all of our families  please know that our schools are safe, welcoming places, and we remain committed to supporting every student, Aviles-Ramos said. We encourage you to continue sending your children to school this fall.

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City Council Member Lincoln Restler said Diallo was detained last week following a court appearance. Diallo, a 20-year-old Brooklyn student, was at a routine appointment at Federal Plaza, according to representatives of the City Council.

This is a scary and unacceptable escalation in ICEs ongoing attempts to target asylum seekers and students, Restler said in a post to X.

Elected officials, including Restler and Comptroller Brad Lander, are expected to hold a rally Thursday morning demanding the students release.

A spokesperson for City Hall also encouraged parents to send their students to school.

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We are aware that one of our students has been detained by ICE after attending a routine immigration hearing. We are gathering more information and reviewing next steps, including our legal options. This did not occur in a school, and we urge our families to continue to send students to school, where they are safe.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11)  Police are searching for a suspect after two armed men exchanged gunfire, leading officers to shoot at them in Brooklyn on Tuesday, according to the NYPD.

Police said officers were patrolling Ocean Avenue near Church Street when shots rang out around 7:30 p.m. The officers headed to the gunfire, which is when they encountered the shootout, according to authorities.

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Police said the officers drew their weapons, firing and hitting the suspect closest to them at least once. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Edynesson Bauduy, was taken to Kings County Hospital in stable condition.

Police said Bauduy is a two-time violent convicted felon who is currently on parole until 2030. He was arrested in 2021 at 18 years old for shooting someone near Ocean Avenue, according to authorities.

Police said that while that case was pending, Bauduy was released on his own recognizance and arrested again for a violent commercial robbery in southern Brooklyn.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

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Bauduy pleaded guilty and received a concurrent sentence.

Police said the second suspect is still being sought. He took off running toward Church Avenue, according to authorities.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PRNewswire Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], August 13: As India advances towards its goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy, the government is focused on enhancing the manufacturing sector, particularly through smart and digital manufacturing initiatives. With the 'Make in India' initiative having gained momentum, the National Policy on Electronics and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme are further underlining the government's dedication to establishing India as a prominent global manufacturing hub. * This programme is offered in partnership with VCNow Executive Education - a brand owned by Unified Collaboration Services LLP. According to a report by OmniScience Capital, India's manufacturing sector is expected to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, contributing 20% to the country's GDP by 2035 and presenting a potential market opportunity worth USD 3 trillion. To meet the demand for visionary leaders in this field, IIM Calcutta is launching the Advanced Programme in Smart Manufacturing Leadership (APSML) in collaboration with VCNow Executive Education, a brand owned by Unified Collaboration Services LLP. This unique eight-month programme targets senior professionals, plant heads, CXOs, operations leaders and entrepreneurs who aspire to implement smart and digital manufacturing strategies, utilizing Industry 4.0 technologies to achieve operational excellence and enhance competitiveness. "At IIM Calcutta, we are committed to developing future-ready leaders. The APSML programme is a strategic step towards empowering professionals to lead India's smart manufacturing revolution with vision, innovation, and technological excellence," said Prof. Alok Kumar Rai, Director, IIM Calcutta. "As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and smart manufacturing, this programme represents a significant commitment to shaping the future of our industry and our nation," said Prof. R Rajesh Babu, Dean of Executive Education at IIM Calcutta. He goes on to add that the programme allows participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of Industry 4.0 and to design and lead digital transformation initiatives that leverage new-age technologies. "This is achieved through the integration of technologies such as IoT, AI, robotics, digital twins, and cloud computing to enhance manufacturing excellence." The programme's curriculum is carefully designed to cover key areas that are highly relevant to the industry. "The programme focuses on data-centric aspects such as data-driven manufacturing, cyber security, data governance, and system modelling, which enables participants with enhanced decision-making tools to improve business performance through optimized production processes, increased responsiveness and efficiency," explained Prof. Partha Priya Datta, Programme Director of APSML. As the industry requires a blend of technical, managerial, and operational skills, the programme also places a strong emphasis on strategic and operational aspects. "Through sustainable strategy, supply chain management, change management, and leadership skills in digital manufacturing, we aim to bring in the aspects of strategy and operational excellence and inculcate these amongst the participants. The programme helps participants to learn how to foster a culture of continuous improvement and drive strategic innovation within their organizations through the adoption of intelligent manufacturing," he pointed out. Prof. Vishal Bansal, Programme Director of APSML, highlights the significance of experiential learning in Industry 4.0, noting that to truly drive innovation, one needs to learn through direct experience. "Our teaching methods include hands-on demonstrations of Industry 4.0 tools, capstone projects, guest lectures from industry leaders, group projects, simulations, and gamified learning, along with case discussions focusing on both Indian and international manufacturing firms," he disclosed. What makes this programme executive-friendly is its seamless online format, made possible through a partnership with VCNow Executive Education, which utilizes state-of-the-art technology. "We are excited to partner with IIM Calcutta in launching this cutting-edge programme, which perfectly aligns with our focus on leveraging smart technology for transformative learning experiences. We look forward to supporting participants to learn and become leaders in their respective domains, providing them with seamless access to IIM Calcutta's world-class knowledge and resources through our technology and student support systems," shared Pulak Pattanayak, Co-Founder and Director of VCNow. The online sessions are held once a week for 3 hours on Saturdays, allowing professionals to balance their work and study commitments easily. Additionally, the programme includes a 4-day campus immersion, providing valuable hands-on experience. IIM Calcutta's Centre of Excellence in Manufacturing has a proven track record of delivering high-quality programmes and the Advanced Programme in Smart Manufacturing Leadership aims to elevate this expertise further. It is designed for professionals with at least 8 years of work experience in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, or related sectors. IIM Calcutta's APSML is a timely and distinctive offering that supports the national mission to transform India into a global manufacturing hub. By equipping professionals with the latest skills and knowledge, this programme is poised to shape the future of India's manufacturing industry. To learn more about the programme and admission process, visit the programme's website https://www.iimcal.ac.in/ldp/advanced-programme-smart-manufacturing-leadership-apsml About IIM Calcutta Established in 1961, Indian Institute of Management Calcutta is India's first national institute for postgraduate management education and a leader in business education in Asia. It is the only Indian B-school with triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. Renowned for its academic rigor, global outlook, and strong industry connections, IIM Calcutta develops ethical, innovative leaders equipped to shape business and society worldwide. About VCNow: VCNow Executive Education is a brand owned by Unified Collaboration Services LLP, founded and run by professionals who pioneered the rollout of large-scale B2B video conferencing (VC) services in India. VCNow is a brand with a leading edge in leveraging video technologies for business and learning. VCNow Executive Education is trusted by India's premier B-Schools, and thousands of working professionals have benefited from its executive education programmes. VCNow currently runs programmes covering a wide range of domains in association with premier institutes including several IIMs and XLRI. Visit to know more about us - https://vcnow.in/go/iimc-apsml-pr. Media Contact Name: Shreyashi Dwivedi Email: shreyashi.dwivedi@vcnow.in Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749000/IIM_Calcutta_Campus.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Officer injured, weapon discharged during arrest near Minneapolis park originally appeared on Bring Me The News.

A Minneapolis Park Police officer's weapon discharged and he sustained a minor injury during the arrest of a sexual assault suspect Monday, police officials said.

The incident near Mueller Park drew a major law enforcement response, and investigators believe the officer's service weapon fired one round while still inside the holster during a struggle with the suspect.

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Minneapolis Park Police Chief Jason Ohotto said officers were called to the park around 1:15 p.m. on reports of a man inappropriately touching children.

A responding officer located the suspect in the alley in the 2400 block between Bryant and Colfax avenues and attempted to take the man into custody.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara said the officer's weapon discharging while it was still inside the holster "would indicate a struggle, perhaps, to obtain control of the weapon at that time."

Law enforcement respond to an incident near Mueller Park in Minneapolis on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Photo by Sven Sundgaard | Bring Me The News.

MPD responded to the scene and assisted with the arrest and will now conduct an independent investigation into the incident.

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O'Hara said the officer sustained a minor injury to his lower arm, but it's not immediately clear if the injury resulted from the gunfire.

O'Hara said the officer is undergoing x-rays that will help determine the nature of the injury.

The suspect appeared uninjured and was taken to the hospital out of an abundance of caution, Ohotto said. He'll be booked into the Hennepin County Jail upon his release from the hospital.

Officials said the suspect is known to police and the officer involved in the incident is a retired MPD sergeant with over 30 years of law enforcement experience.

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Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcements latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
CAMERON, N.Y. (WETM)  After months of review from various forms of video, written, and verbal evidence, Attorney General Letitia James Office of Special Investigation (OSI) released a final report on the death of a Cameron man in Steuben County back in October 2024.

The report revealed that the shooting death of Allan Hoad II after a 13-hour standoff in Steuben County was justified by law enforcement, given the circumstances around the incident, the report said.

The report said that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers actions were justified under New York Law.

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The incident happened in the early morning of October 21, 2024, when the Steuben County Sheriffs Office was called to conduct a welfare check on Hoad after his family had concerns that he was not himself and was going to make a mistake.

One dead after 12-hour standoff with police in Steuben County

The AGs office interviewed a witness close to the situation, who said the family was trying to get Hoad to go to the doctor. The witness told the AGs office that the family called the police as a last resort, as a way to get Hoad to the hospital. Hoad was alone at the house in Cameron after he kicked the rest of the family out.

When deputies arrived around 1:30 a.m. at Hoads residence in Cameron on Oct 21, just three minutes after their arrival, Hoad shot a shotgun at the deputies, causing them to run back and set up a perimeter.

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The house was surrounded, and units from SWAT and other deputies arrived at the scene, where they spent the next 12 hours.

During that time inside, Hoad had made calls to 911, friends, and family, threatening the officers. At one point during the standoff, a friend of Hoads called him, as he felt he could talk Hoad out of the situation. The witness told the AGs office that Hoad said he was going to kill the cops, ram their cars, and kill anybody who got in his way, and then hung up the phone.

Body cam footage released from Steuben County 12-hour standoff in October

Around 2 p.m., Hoad loaded weapons into his truck and started to drive through a field and onto Swale Road, prompting a chase from SWAT.

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Hoad had stopped his truck at a home on Swale Road and had gotten out of the vehicle. Police had stopped and held Hoad at gunpoint from a distance, ordering him to put his hands up and to stop moving.

Hoad managed to get back into his truck and put it into reverse toward the SWAT officers and the patrol cars, smashing into one of the cars. Police opened fire on the truck as it was going in reverse before Hoad got out of the vehicle, where he was shot again, the report said. After the shooting, Hoad was still awake and was handcuffed while an ambulance was called to the scene.

The report stated Hoad was combative and uncooperative while he was being treated, striking and even spitting on multiple responders, even though he had been shot numerous times.

Peaceful protest held in Bath after death of Steuben County man

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Paramedics arrived and transported Hoad, where he was declared dead at an area hospital around 4:09 p.m. the same day.

A search of Hoads truck found a 12-gauge shotgun along with three silver-colored imitation handguns inside, the report said.

Based on all the evidence and the investigation that followed the shooting, the AGs OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officers involved were justified when they shot and killed Hoad, the report said.

Based on this, no charges will be sought against the officers, and the matter is now closed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Georgias governor recognized the men and women, and the officers, who helped rescue two young children from a hot car.

The incident happened on June 4 in the parking lot of Cumberland Mall.

Investigators said the father of the kids, ages 1 and 2, left them in the car on a sweltering day.

According to Cobb County police, the temperature inside the car was 117 degrees when they were rescued.

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Police posted video showing officers breaking into the car and removing the children.

Officers can be heard comforting the children on the video as they remove them from the car.

JQuawn Dixon, the childrens father, was arrested and booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center.

He was charged with two counts of second-degree cruelty to children.

On Tuesday, the group of citizens and officers received official commendations from Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.

This moment was a powerful reminder that when citizens and officers join forces, lives are saved, the Cobb County Police Department said in a post on Facebook.
Two women were rescued on Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on Aug. 8 after strong winds pushed them miles from shore, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Around 3:30 p.m., dispatchers received a report of two paddleboarders in distress on the lake, near Ontonagon, according to a DNR news release. Officers launched from the Ontonagon Village Marina aboard an Ontonagon County Sheriffs Office patrol boat to get to the women.

The women  a 29-year-old from Minnesota and a 37-year-old from Illinois, both originally from the Ontonagon area  were about a mile offshore, officials said.

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By the time officers reached them around 4:08 p.m., winds had pushed them about two miles out, said conservation officer Ethen Mapes, who was alerted and responded to the scene. He added that neither woman wore a life jacket, one had lost a paddle and the other had never been on a paddleboard before.

They were in good condition overall, but just could not paddle against the strong wind to get back to shore, said conservation officer Pete Shambaugh, who was called to assist in the rescue attempt.

More: New deer hunting regulations, season dates for 2025. What hunters need to know

The officers pulled the women aboard and returned them to the beach.

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DNR Law Enforcement Division Chief Jason Haines said the rescue underscores how quickly Great Lakes conditions, inexperience and a lack of safety gear can turn dangerous. The agency urges paddleboarders to always wear a life jacket, use a leash to connect to the board, carry their phone in a waterproof case for emergencies, check weather forecasts and know their limits.

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: 2 paddleboarders rescued after drifting miles on Lake Superior
Offices for county and state workforce services will temporarily close on select days while the Frederick County American Job Center on Monroe Avenue undergoes a roof replacement.

Construction will begin on Wednesday and is expected to continue throughout August.

During construction, Frederick County Workforce Services will not offer in-person or walk-in appointments.

The county agency will temporarily offer virtual appointments in place of walk-in hours during building closures, and the main phone line will still be monitored for calls.

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Some Frederick County Workforce Services workshops and events may be canceled, rescheduled or relocated during the building closure.

To schedule virtual appointments and to view information about events at Frederick County Workforce Services, people can visit frederickworks.com/events.

From Wednesday through Friday, the Maryland Department of Labors Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning office will not offer in-person assistance at the Frederick County American Job Center.

During this time, those needing assistance with the Maryland Workforce Exchange, TrueID verification, or the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment program may email frick.js@maryland.gov.

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The state agency will have virtual office hours from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For the most up-to-date information about closures at the Frederick County American Job Center, people can visit frederickworks.com/temporary-closures-at-fcws-at-the-american-job-center.
VIRGINIA (DC News Now)  U.S. Marshals in Virginia are warning residents about a scheme that aims to trick victims into sending money to unknown callers posing as the district office.

The U.S. Marshals Service for the Eastern District of Virginia said in a news release Wednesday that these con artists are spoofing calls to try to get money from residents.

The U.S. Marshals said that this tactic, called neighbor spoofing, uses technology to modify the number appearing on your caller ID.

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Car wash offers free washes to teachers, school employees for back to school

Officials said that the callers will try to collect a fine to avoid arrest for an offense such as missing jury duty. The callers will ask the victims to read the number of a store gift card or prepaid debit card over the phone for the fine. They will also request cryptocurrency payments.

Scammers use many tactics to sound credible. They sometimes provide information like badge numbers, names of actual law enforcement officials and federal judges. These calls are becoming more prevalent in our area, and we want to educate the public on these types of scams, U.S. Marshal Shannon Saylor of the Eastern District of Virginia said in a news release.

If you have fallen victim to one of these callers, the U.S. Marshals said to report that to your local FBI office and the Federal Trade Commission.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
There are still five workers hospitalized this evening, all between the ages of 27 and 74, after a deadly explosion at a steel plant in Clairton. As loved ones anxiously await updates on their recovery, many are also mourning the tragic loss of two workers.

Theres kids involved, their brothers and sisters, like you already know, said JoJo Burgess. This was definitely life-changing for a lot of people. We want to make sure we keep these people in our thoughts and prayers.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> U.S. Steel officials release details about moments leading up to Clairton plant explosion

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Washington Mayor JoJo Burgess was working at the Clairton Coke Works during yesterdays explosion. He said he knew both of the men who died.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> Local mayor among steelworkers at Clairton plant during time of deadly explosion

We were hoping and praying that no one got hurt, and unfortunately, we lost two people, said Burgess. Both were well-liked, and everybody is devastated that worked with them in their departments and stuff like that. They were good guys.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also spoke about the men at a press conference. He said he sat down with the sister and girlfriend of one of the victims -- Timothy Quinn.

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PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Expert calls for transparency in deadly explosion investigation and environmental impacts

After working long and tough shifts here at the plant, he would go take care of his mom and look after his three children, and look after Lucys two children as well, said Governor Shapiro.

Now, as the investigation is underway, the Governor said its important to remember the legacies left behind.

PHOTOS: Explosion at U.S. Steel Clairton Works Plant,

We will honor his legacy, and we will make sure that his children know that their dad was a special man, a good man, and a man who helped build this community with his hands the way his father did, said Shapiro.

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Burgess said, We work in a dangerous environment. The one thing we dont want to have happen is that we have a life-altering injury or that our families have to get a call like those families had to get yesterday.

The second man killed has not yet been identified. But the family says  they are asking for privacy.

Both the Governor and Burgess share that they hope the families get the answers they need during this investigation to find closure and for a quick recovery for those still in the hospital.

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An election observer monitors two poll workers processing absentee ballots. (Photo by Matt Vasilogambros/Stateline.)

A pair of Democratic Ohio state lawmakers want to give voters the chance to sign up for absentee ballots permanently. Eight states allow all their citizens to opt in to regular absentee voting, and another 11 allow specific populations like people with disabilities to do so, too.

But under current law in Ohio, voters must file a new absentee ballot request with every single election. And the procedure isnt all that simple.

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Ohioans can register to vote online, but they cant request an absentee ballot while theyre there. Instead, voters have to print and fill out a request form and then mail it in to their county board.

Ohio state Reps. Michele Grim, D-Toledo, and Tristan Rader, D-Lakewood, argue thats more cumbersome than it needs to be.

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How the bill works

Ohio House Bill 400 would create several avenues for voters to sign up for the permanent absentee ballot list.

Folks who regularly vote by mail can voluntarily opt into being part of a system where theyre always going to get an application to vote by mail, Rader explained. So they dont have to go seek that out every election. They dont have to go find a form, or go online and request a form and remember to do that, put it on their calendar.

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So, it just kind of removes a step, he added, makes it a little bit easier for folks that prefer to vote by mail.

The measure directs the Ohio Secretary of State to develop a new form for voters to add their name; voter registration, change of address and change of name forms would all get a new box allowing voter to opt in as well.

Ditto the online voter registration portal. Finally, anytime a voter requests an absentee ballot for an individual election, they could also sign up for absentee ballots going forward.

Rader stressed the program is voluntary. Voters can sign up and back out at will.

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Rep. Grim said she regularly hears from voters who dont realize they have to request an absentee ballot every single time. Primary, special, general  each one requires its own request.

A lot of a lot of people dont know that, or they forget sometimes, Grim said. So this would make it a lot easier, especially for older folks or people with disabilities, but also, you know, folks that maybe dont work traditional jobs and have a hard time voting.

I actually did it in California, when I lived in California, she added. My ballot came every time, and I was able to vote and mail it back. It was very simple, and I think it just helps a lot of people.

This is not the first time Democrats have proposed a permanent absentee voter list. Former state Rep. Michael Skindell, D-Lakewood, made the most recent attempt in 2022, but that proposal went nowhere.

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A likely complaint is what happens when a voter moves or dies? Does the new resident just luck into an extra ballot? The short answer is no.

That is against the law, so they cant do that, Grim said. If they vote with someones ballot, thats not their name, you know, that is a state and federal offense.

Whats more, the proposal doesnt direct county boards to send the actual ballot. Instead, voters would get the ballot request form.

To get an actual ballot the voter has to return that form with identifying information including date of birth, social security number or drivers license and their signature.

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Election officials verify that information on the application form and again when the voter sends in their ballot.

Grim notes its not as straightforward as it could be, but its an improvement on a system requiring the voter to initiate each absentee ballot request.

Rader also said it would be nice if voters could just sign up to receive a ballot rather than a request form.

I would love to move to the next step, but I think we have to take this in incremental steps, he said. I think our goal here is to get people warmed up to this idea and see if we cant get bipartisan support.

Ultimately, Rader said, it would be great if Ohio joined the eight states and Washington, D.C. that proactively mail ballots to every registered voter for every election.

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If we can get more buy in for universal vote by mail would be fantastic, he said, but I dont know if thats like where our state is right now.

Follow Ohio Capital Journal Reporter Nick Evans on X or on Bluesky.

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PRICEVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  An Ohio man was arrested on Wednesday after police said he exposed himself from his van.

Officers with the Priceville Police Department responded to a complaint of indecent exposure at a business on Point Mallard Parkway on Wednesday afternoon. PPD said the person who made the report told them a man had exposed himself from the rear of the van, with the doors open so that people could see.

Lockheed Martin to open large missile assembly building in Courtland early 2026

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The police department said that when officers approached the van, the man was still only partially clothed, with his bottom half still exposed.

Robert William Shirk, 66, from Cardington, Ohio, was arrested and charged with one count of public lewdness. He was taken to the Morgan County Jail and is being held on a $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 WHNT.com.
A man was injured in a shooting in Richmond on Tuesday night.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The shooting was reported in the 600 block of S. 9th Street around 7:19 p.m., according to a social media post from the Richmond Police Department.

When crews got to the scene, they found 30-year-old Fredrick Rodgers, of Ohio, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

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Rodgers was taken to Reid Health before being transferred to Miami Valley Hospital.

At this time, investigators believe the shooting was an isolated incident.

The Richmond Police Department Investigative Services Divisions (ISD) investigation has been hindered by a victims lack of cooperation.

It is frustrating when those directly impacted by violent crime choose not to cooperate with investigators. Every act of violence in our city affects not only the victim but the safety of the entire community, Police Chief Kyle Weatherly said.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact lead ISD Detective Amanda Thackrey at (765) 983-7314.

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VMPL Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 13: Puravankara Limited (NSE: PURVA | BSE: 532891), one of India's most admired and trusted real estate developers, today commemorated its 50-year milestone with the release of a customised 'My Stamp' by the Department of Posts, Government of India. The launch marks a significant moment in the company's illustrious journey, honouring its legacy of excellence in building homes of international quality with trust and transparency since 1975. The Golden Jubilee 'My Stamp' tells the story of Puravankara, which began in 1975 in Mumbai, where the dream took root, and later found its home in Bengaluru, from where it expanded to nine cities. The stamps' bold, contemporary design marks the milestone years 1975- 2025 and proudly carries the Puravankara name, framed by iconic buildings from both Mumbai and Bengaluru - a nod to the cities that shaped its past and will shape its future. Clean lines, a celebratory palette, and its thoughtful symbolism make the stamp a timeless keepsake of the company's legacy and forward-looking spirit. On the stamp release, Sri K. Prakash, IPOs Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Postal Circle, said," Stamps are not just miniature pieces of art - they are powerful storytellers of history, achievements, and culture. India Post has been engaged in the service of the people, and through initiatives like 'My Stamp', we celebrate the contributions of companies towards shaping India's future." Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Ravi Puravankara, Founder & Chairman, Puravankara Limited, said, "This is a moment of pride and reflection for all of us at Puravankara. The launch of the 'My Stamp' by India Post celebrates our 50-year journey and acknowledges the countless individuals - employees, partners, and customers - who have been part of this incredible legacy. From our humble beginnings in Mumbai to becoming a nationally respected brand, our foundation has always been built on trust, transparency, and timely delivery. As we look to the future, we remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and creating a sustainable world for people to live their dreams." Speaking at the event, Amanda Puravankara, Additional Director, Puravankara Limited, added, "The 'My Stamp' is more than a commemorative token; it is a symbol of the values we have nurtured over five decades - customer centricity, quality, and enduring relationships. It is also a pledge to the future. We are embracing new technologies, green practices, and design excellence to meet the evolving aspirations of homebuyers. Our journey is far from over. The next 50 years will be about scaling new heights while staying rooted in our legacy." The stamp was officially unveiled by Mr. K. Prakash, IPOs, Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Postal Circle. The event was attended by senior dignitaries from India Post, including Sri Sandesh Mahadevappa, IPOs, DPS, Karnataka Circle; Smt. V Tara, IPOs, DPS, Karnataka Circle; Sri H. M. Manjesha, Chief Postmaster, Bengaluru GPO; and Sri Ranjith Kumar, IPOs, SSPOs Bengaluru East Division. Also present were Ms. Amanda Puravankara, Additional Director, Puravankara Limited; Mr. Mallanna Sasalu, CEO - South; Mr. Rajat Rastogi, CEO - West & Commercial Assets; the leadership team of Puravankara; and esteemed partners who have been part of the company's five-decade-long journey. (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)
An Oklahoma City man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine in Southwest Missouri was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole Tuesday.

Edward Uribe, 37, who was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, was also ordered to forfeit $210,000 in drug trafficking proceeds to the government, according to a statement by R. Matthew Price, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Missouri.

On Nov. 25, 2024, Uribe pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

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According to the statement, Uribe admitted that he conspired to distribute methamphetamine in Jasper and Newton counties, as well as Barry, Stone, Polk, Lawrence and Green counties, between Nov. 1, 2020, and April 28, 2022. He also served as a main source of methamphetamine from Feb. 1, 2022, to April 28, 2022, during which time he helped distribute more than 460 pounds of methamphetamine from Oklahoma to Southwest Missouri.

Uribe, who was incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for a previous methamphetamine trafficking conviction, used a contraband cellphone to communicate with his co-conspirators, according to the statement.

He used a messaging app on the phone to schedule transportation and delivery of the methamphetamine and provide instructions on how to prepare the drug for sale. Uribe also used the app and proceeds from his drug trafficking to arrange the purchase of a drone with the intent to smuggle drugs and other contraband into prison, according to the statement.

Uribe is among 20 defendants in this case who have pleaded guilty.
Staff at Thelma R. Parks Elementary in Oklahoma City serve a student breakfast in the school cafeteria on Wednesday. Oklahoma City Public Schools offers all cafeteria meals for free, but other districts charge fees. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Multiple Oklahoma school districts say they will continue to charge cafeteria fees despite demands from the states public education chief to provide all meals for free.

Serving free meals to all students, as state Superintendent Ryan Walters called for last month, isnt financially feasible and would require dramatic cost cuts, district officials have said. Unlike other states that made school meals universally free, Oklahoma has not dedicated any extra funds to support the policy.

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At the present time, were going to continue operating the way we have done with lunches until we have further guidance in terms of what and how thats going to look within our school and other school districts, said Josh Delich, superintendent of Edmond Public Schools.

Walters threatened to penalize and audit schools that dont comply, calling cafeteria fees an extra tax unfairly imposed on Oklahoma families.

If schools districts cannot, and will not, prioritize students, (the Oklahoma State Department of Education) will get involved and audit their budgets, Walters said in a statement Wednesday. Record amounts of funding are going to schools and it is completely unacceptable for administrators to continue failing our kids, and get rich doing it.

No state law permits the state superintendent to punish or audit schools for not providing universal free meals, according to a memo from the Oklahoma State School Boards Association.

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Speaking with reporters after a State of the Schools event Aug. 6, Delich said hes not concerned about blowback from the state Department of Education.

Edmond Public Schools Superintendent Josh Delich speaks at a State of the Schools event at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum on Aug. 6. (Photo by Nuria-Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

As things continue to unfold, well adjust accordingly and do what we need to do as a collective system to do whats best for students and families, he said.

Children living at or near the federal poverty line qualify for free or reduced-price meals in any public school.

More than 250 districts in Oklahoma have a large enough portion of students from low-income homes that they receive enhanced federal funding that enables them to provide free meals to all enrolled.

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Other districts with lower poverty levels dont qualify for as much federal support for child nutrition costs, which is why they still charge for meals.

Some, like Norman Public Schools, have a mix of both scenarios.

Norman has 19 schools that offer free meals to all students and five that do not. Low-income families at those five schools are encouraged to fill out an application for free or reduced-price meals, district spokesperson Courtney Scott said.

With less than a week to go before Normans first day of school, the district had yet to receive any formal directive or guidance from the state Education Department about the meal policy, she said Thursday.

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We arent changing any plans, Scott said.

Representatives of Deer Creek Public Schools and Bixby Public Schools said they dont intend to cancel all cafeteria fees, either. Superintendents of both districts said it would take drastic cuts to cover free meals for every student.

Walters urged districts to reduce administrative spending to free up funds for the extra cost.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters demanded all Oklahoma public schools offer cafeteria meals at no cost to all students. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

Even a crippling 50% cut to Bixbys administrative budget would afford only 30% of the cost of student meals, Superintendent Lydia Wilson wrote in a message to families.

Deer Creek Superintendent Jason Perez said his district would have to lay off teachers and cut school programs on top of firing all administrators.

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I think for now, were going to continue on as planned, he told Oklahoma Voice on July 8. Weve got school opening up in a month. We want to make sure were fully staffed. We want to make sure that were going to be able to fund school.

A Deer Creek assistant superintendent, Lenis DeRieux, said last week the districts stance has not changed.

Lunches will cost $3.40 in Deer Creeks elementary and middle schools, and $3.75 at its high school, according to the districts website. Breakfast is $2.37.

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Aug. 12ROCHESTER  A scheduled hourlong public discussion between 1st District Rep. Brad Finstad and five Olmsted County commissioners ended abruptly after seven minutes Tuesday amid an audience outburst.

"You do that again and you'll be excused," County Board Chairman Mark Thein told three audience members after they interrupted Finstad's initial comments regarding changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Following another warning, Thein recessed the special meeting at the Public Works Service Center, and county deputies asked the three audience members to leave.

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Fillmore County resident Megan Rutter said she just wanted to be heard after her family farm lost access to U.S. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Agency grants and forced her to rely on SNAP benefits.

While Finstad and commissioners Michelle Rossman, Brian Mueller and Bob Hopkins left the room, Thein and Commissioner Dave Senjem addressed the 12 residents gathered, who voiced a desire to speak directly to the Finstad, a Republican who represents southern Minnesota in Congress.

Thein said that wasn't the intent of the meeting, but it was intended as a chance to hear responses to questions posed by commissioners.

"This is self-defeating when we try to have a conversation and we start and don't even get into the heart of it, and we get interrupted," he said.

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Senjem, who served in the Minnesota Legislature with Finstad, said the meeting offered a unique opportunity after the congressman's staff reached out to schedule it while he was in Rochester.

"This was a golden chance, as far as my memory is concerned, of having a congressman at a county board meeting with the public," he said. "It's too bad we couldn't pull it off."

Julie Fryer, of Chatfield, said she believes Finstad was lying during his initial comments and questioned whether county commissioners would raise the issues she and others wanted addressed.

"It's not our fault that he's lying," she told Thein before leaving the meeting. "You chose to recess the meeting. That's on you."

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"You are asking us to sit here and watch you let him lie to us," Fryer added, stating it was a lie to state that able-bodied people are taking benefits.

When he was interrupted, Finstad had been addressing unique challenges faced by Minnesota counties, which have a larger role in oversight and staffing tied to federal benefit programs.

He said he's been talking to federal administrators about potential tweaks to reduce local financial burdens.

"There is some work we have to do yet on how to fine-tune some of the recent policy proposals, specifically with the eligibility checks and the extra work the county has," he said.

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When he stated that adjustments to SNAP are solely focused on able-bodied adults receiving benefits, the interruptions began.

The format called for Finstad to provide updates on federal actions, followed by commissioners and county staff expected to voice concerns about various local impacts, as well as raise federal requests.

Thein said that couldn't happen publicly due to the interruptions, but commissioners were able to break into smaller groups to talk with the congressman in compliance with open-meeting laws.

Jennifer Berquam, Olmsted County's legislative policy analyst, said the closed-door discussions offered some benefit, since commissioners were able to raise requests for federal support related to transportation and environmental projects.

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"We talked about some things they are going to look into further for us and follow up," she said.

Rossman said commissioners were also able to dive deeper into the concern about added burdens on Minnesota counties when it comes to oversight of Medicaid and SNAP benefits.

She said the projected added county costs in 2026 and 2027 were discussed, along with inconsistencies in the federal legislation that could result in negative outcomes for residents, as well as the benefit programs.

"It opens it up to fraud," Rossman said of the lack of clarity in some of the rule changes. "It opens it up to errors, because the administrative burden is so great."

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Thein said the concerns were heard by the congressman, but he regrets needing to alter how the information was shared.

"I wish the public had been able to hear what our conversations were," he said.

Kelly Klein, a local co-chairwoman and event planner of Indivisible, said she would have liked to hear the conversations but understands that people are frustrated following a lack of access to Finstad amid program cuts.

"It's emotional, and we are scared," she said. "We want answers from Congressman Finstad, if we can get them."
Aug. 13ROCHESTER  The U.S. Department of Agriculture has recognized Olmsted County's Women, Infants and Children, or WIC, program with a 2025 Breastfeeding Award of Excellence, Premier level.

It's the second time the county program has received a Premier-level award, the second-highest level, per an Olmsted County press release. Only three county-level WIC programs in Minnesota earned the Premier award this year: Olmsted, Carlton and St. Louis.

The award acknowledges "local WIC agencies that have provided exemplary breastfeeding promotion and support activities."

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"Breastfeeding is one of the most important investments we can make in the health of our community," said Wendy O'Leary, Olmsted County WIC manager. "This award celebrates the strong partnerships we've built with families, community organizations and health care providers to ensure parents have the resources, encouragement and support they need to reach their breastfeeding goals."

Olmsted County WIC's breastfeeding services include:

* One-on-one breastfeeding support

* Peer counselors who are available 24/7

* A donor breast milk bank

"This award is a reflection of the dedication and passion of our WIC team who provide invaluable support to new parents on their breastfeeding journeys," said Sue Santosuosso, Olmsted County WIC services supervisor and breastfeeding peer counselor coordinator.

Almost a quarter  23%  of infants enrolled with Olmsted County WIC were fully breastfed.
The FBI Omaha office led a multi-year, multi-agency operation that on Tuesday spurred search warrants on 14 businesses and two residences and the arrests of five people in the Omaha-area motel industry. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

OMAHA  A multi-year investigation centered on multiple motels, brow and lash salons and alleged human trafficking in and around Nebraskas largest city has led to charges against five people in the hotel business.

The five, who own, operate and manage the involved hotels, are accused of crimes ranging from alleged sex and labor trafficking, fraudulent use of visas, money laundering and concealing undocumented immigrants, law enforcement officials announced Tuesday.

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Also seized as part of the search warrants was $565,000 in cash and jewelry. A representative of U.S. Homeland Security said workers in the country without proper documentation also were detained, though he declined to disclose how many.

Eugene Kowel, special agent in charge of the Omaha FBI, said child victims as young as 12 years old were involved in a case he described as absolutely horrific. A statement said officers rescued 10 minors and 17 adults from the alleged labor trafficking conspiracy.

Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery, Kowel said. This investigation revealed victims right here in the heartland forced into sexual activity, living and working in dangerous and filthy conditions and extorted to work in grueling jobs with little to no pay.

Kowel said investigators became aware of activity about four years ago, assisted by calls and concerns from the public.

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He said the case involved sex for rent, drugs and more. On one occasion, he said, a source working with the federal government entered a hotel room where immigrants slept on the floor with cockroaches crawling on them.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said more than 100 Omaha officers worked the case at various points, mostly since earlier this year, when an alleged juvenile sex trafficking case was revealed at one of the hotels that was also part of Tuesdays crackdown. That property, the AmericInn near Interstate-80 and 13th Street, is adjacent to Omahas Henry Doorly Zoo.

Other motel properties upon which agents converged Tuesday: New Victorian Inn & Suites near 108th and L Streets; Rodeway Inn at 1110 Fort Crook Road South in Bellevue; The Inn (formerly Super 8) at 9305 S. 145th St.

Ten other businesses associated with the accused also were searched under a warrant, the officials said, including brow and lash salons in the Westroads Mall and other Omaha metro locations.

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The five hoteliers accused of alleged crimes, according to the U.S. Attorney for Nebraska, Lesley Woods: Kentakumar Chaudhari, 36, of Elkhorn; Rashmi Ajit Samani, 42, of Elkhorn; Amit Prahladbhai Chaudhari, 32, of Omaha; Amit Babubhai Chaudhari, 33, of Omaha; and Maheshkumar Chaudhari, 38, of Norfolk.

According to a U.S. Attorneys Office statement, sex trafficking was encouraged at the hotels  protected from law enforcement detection, and sex trafficking victims at the hotels were subjected not only to the traditional perpetrators of a sex trafficking scheme but also to hotel management and employees victimizing them as well.

The statement said, Drug traffickers allegedly received protection from law enforcement in the same manner in which human traffickers were also shielded by the hotel owners and managers.

Kowel said at least one of the accused is charged with conspiracy to defraud the government through a scheme designed to obtain a U visa, which are for victims that help law enforcement prosecute crimes.

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In that situation, he said, a hotel owner is accused of staging a fictitious robbery at a salon in 2022, the goal allegedly being to secure a U visa for one of the other defendants by representing her as a victim.

The government officials further alleged that one of the five people accused had engaged in conversations about the cost to bring someone from India to America. The statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office said a number of hotel employees crossed the Arizona border several years ago and reported to Customs and Border Patrol that they would be residing at one or more of that defendants hotels, thereby indicating those arrangements were made prior to entering the country illegally.

The government alleged also that unauthorized immigrants were transported between Nebraska and the state of Washington to fraudulently obtain Washington drivers licenses for about $1,000 per document.

The federal government is taking steps to prevent the sale or transfer of the hotels during the ongoing investigation. The officials said 11 agencies and about 300 law enforcement officers were involved in the FBI-led investigation.

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Among the agencies: the Nebraska State Patrol, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the local U.S. Attorneys Office, the Nebraska Attorney Generals Office and Sarpy County Sheriffs Office.

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CHAMPLAIN  State Police said a house fire in the town of Champlain over the weekend was intentionally set.

At approximately 5:48 a.m. Saturday, State Police responded to Hayford Road in the town of Champlain for a property retrieval.

Police said during the investigation, it was determined that Tyler J. Hart, 30, was extremely upset about his belongings being outside the residence and was unable to locate his wallet.

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In a fit of rage, he damaged items, slashed the victims tires and intentionally set the house on fire, police said.

New York State Police arrested Hart and transported him to SP Champlain for processing. Hart was charged with second-degree arson, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and criminal mischief, police said.

Hart was arraigned in the Town of Champlain Court and was remanded to the Clinton County Jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail, a $40,000 bond and an $80,000 partial bond, police said.

State Police were assisted by Clinton County fire investigators, New York State Fire and local fire departments.

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The American Red Cross also provided aid to two adults after the fire, the organization said in a news release Saturday.

The aid included financial assistance which can be used for necessities such as shelter, food, and clothing to the two adults, the Red Cross said.
One man is dead after a crash between a sedan and a side-by-side utility vehicle in rural Knox County yesterday afternoon.

A news release from the Knox County Sheriffs Office says a preliminary investigation shows a Kubota side-by-side crossed the road in front of an eastbound sedan in the 1600 block of U.S. Highway 150 E in Knox County on August 12 at about 3:54 p.m. The driver of the Kubota, a 75-year-old man from Gilson, Ill., was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the sedan, a 24-year-old man from Galesburg, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The sheriffs office is not releasing the names of the men pending notification of family. The Knox County Sheriffs Office Accident Reconstruction Team is investigating the crash. GHAS, Knoxville Fire/First Responders, Williamsfield Fire, Oak Run First Responders, Illinois State Police and the Knox County Coroner assisted at the scene.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A woman has been charged with murder after investigators say she shot and killed her husband on Wednesday morning inside a Clinton, Missouri, home.

According to court records, just after 6:30 a.m., officers were called to a home near South Main Street and West Ohio Street after a woman told police she had shot her husband in the head while he was asleep.

See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri

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The woman, later identified as Angelika Couch, told police that her husband, Thomas Couch, had been threatening her the night before. She claimed Thomas told her he would kill her when he woke up in the morning, court records say.

Angelika also told investigators that during their fight, Thomas placed a gun inside her mouth.

When officers arrived at the home after the shooting, they found Thomas with a gunshot wound to the back of the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

While being questioned, Angelika told police that after their fight, she and Thomas ended the night in separate rooms. When she woke up in the morning, she found Thomas asleep in the room with the gun on his nightstand. That was when she decided to shoot him, court records say.

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Man arrested, facing charges in connection with Belton shooting

Angelika was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold while investigators processed the scene.

Court records say a gun matching the description of the weapon used in the shooting was found inside the home. They also determined that one bullet had been fired.

A warrant was eventually issued for Angelikas arrest. She was later charged by Henry County prosecutors with first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

Angelika is now being held in a Henry 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
One person has died as wildfires rage across large parts of Albania, the Defence Ministry in Tirana said on Wednesday.

The victim was killed in the central town of Gramsh.

Firefighters, soldiers and police have been working around the clock, using helicopters to battle the flames.

In the small town of Delvina, about 10 kilometres from the Adriatic coast, both residential buildings and a hospital had to be evacuated.

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In neighbouring Montenegro, crews from Serbia, Croatia and Italy are fighting fires, with additional assistance expected from Austria and Hungary. The worst-hit area is the coastal strip between Piper and Buljarica.

Montenegro reported on Tuesday the death of a soldier participating in firefighting operations.
When President Donald Trump spoke of a murdered alumnus of his first administration, his press conference on Monday about crime in the nations capital suddenly seemed like more than just another episode of Anything But Jeffrey.

I lost a very good person a while ago, was shot waiting for his wife, Trump told reporters five minutes into the 77-minute session in the White House briefing room. He was in the car. They robbed his car. They shot him. They killed him like it was nothing to it.

The person in question was Mike Gill, a 56-year-old father of three and onetime chief of staff at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. They was in fact a single individual, 28-year-old Artel Cunningham.

Mike Gill was killed at the beginning of 2024. / Housing Policy Council

She was walking to the car, Trump said of Gills wife, Kristina. She wasits a horror show.

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He continued, This issue directly impacts the functioning of the federal government, and is a threat to America, really. Its a threat to our country. We have other cities also that are bad, very bad.

Trump blamed lax laws and liberal coddling of criminals, but made no mention of a common denominator in the violence that results in thousands of deaths each year. That includes the killing that Trump spoke of again two minutes later. He described Gill as a fantastic person, [who] was murdered last year in cold blood in a carjacking blocks away from the White House.

We all knew him, great person, waiting for his wife as she was walking to the car, Trump added.

The common denominator: guns.

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After fleeing the scene of the shooting on foot, Cunningham fatally shot a 35-year-old father of two named Alberto Vasquez in a carjacking. Cunningham was subsequently shot and killed in New Carrollton, Maryland, by police officers who initially thought he was armed with two pistols, but discovered one was a BB gun.

One of 60 guns seized by the MPD between July 21 and July 27. / DC Metropolitan Police

But Vasquez had no connection with the Trump administration and the president made no mention of him.

Trump did speak with seemingly genuine feeling about 19-year-old Edward Coristine, a former DOGE operative also known as Big Balls. Coristine was assaulted by a group of juveniles, reportedly when he attempted to defend a woman friend from an unarmed carjacking. A radio car happened to be nearby and two 15-year-old suspects were arrested, a boy and a girl.

He thought he was dead with a broken nose and concussion, Trump said of Coristine. Cant believe that hes alive. He cant believe it.

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Timing suggests that the battering of Big Balls was what triggered Trump to implement measures he is said to have contemplated since his first term. He announced on Monday that he would he taking over the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and flooding the streets with federal agents in a city that already has a falling crime rate and the highest ratio of cops to civilians in the country.

But to justify all that, Trump needed victims who had suffered more than Coristines bloody nose and scare. He needed people who actually had been killed, and were not just another carjack victim like Vasquez. One had a political connection.

In June, a 21-year-old Congressional intern was tragically killed after being hit by a stray bullet in a drive-by shooting, Trump said, referring to the death of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym.

Another gun violence victim, little Honesty Cheadle, was brought up during the press conference.

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Horrifically, last July Fourth weekend, a 3-year-old girl was shot in the head and killed while sitting in a car near the Capitol, Trump said.

He went on, Its becoming a situation of complete and total lawlessness. And were getting rid of the slums too. We have slums here. Were getting rid of them. I know its not politically correct. Youll say, oh, so terrible. No, were getting rid of the slums where they live.

Trump shows crime statistics as he delivers remarks during a press conference Monday. / Andrew Harnik / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Trump was again using they, though now to denote a whole group of people. He was declaring himself prepared to rid the nations capital of entire neighborhoods.

But he made no mention of what this and all cities need to get rid of, what was also the common denominator in the killings he cited: easily available illegal guns.

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A sense of the MPDs ongoing effort to address the problem is afforded by weekly reports of firearm recoveries, complete with photos of the weapons and details about the seizures. A tally posted on Monday detailed 60 gun seizures between July 21 and July 27. Two dozen of the weapons had an illegal high-capacity magazine, officially described as a Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device.

Those arrested on gun charges were as young as 14, in that instance a 9 mm ghost gun. A 26-year-old man was charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun. A 28-year-old man of no fixed address, actually had two guns, both high-end, a Glock 19 and a Glock 43.

Even the homeless in our nations capital can pack $900 in firepower.

At 6:56 p.m., on the evening of Trumps declaration of war on crime in the District of Columbia, police arrived at the scene of a gunshot victim at 1220 12th Street NW. That is just under a mile from the White House.

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Third District Officers responded to the listed location for a shooting, the public incident report reads. Once on scene, Officers located V-1 (victim one) suffering from gunshot wounds to the body. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 2044 hours.

The weapon was listed as a rifle. Police identified the victim as 33-year-old Tymark Cocheasa Wells of 1730 7th Street NW. Wells had notedpropheticallyon Facebook the Districts homicide tally just after his 30th birthday in May of 2022.

200 homicides DC count ya f----n days its more to come.

Homicides spiked in 2023, but declined in 2024. Wells joined this years death toll, the first on Trumps watch.

But not the first killed by the one preventable factor Trump said nothing about: a gun.
VMPL New Delhi [India], August 13: L.B.F.C, the leading luxury bathroom brand that proudly combines Dutch-inspired style and German precision engineering, has today unveiled its advice on transforming daily bathrooms into spa-like retreats. Famed globally for combining innovative bathroom technology with traditional European style, L.B.F.C is again setting new standards for relaxation, well-being, and home luxury. Redefining Bathroom Luxury: The L.B.F.C Approach With the needs of contemporary life, bathrooms are no longer simply utilitarian spaces--personal sanctuaries for well-being. Homeowners want luxury bathroom solutions that soften the boundaries of contemporary design, wellness technology, and sustainability. L.B.F.C's design philosophy is all about stimulating all senses, integrating: 1. Clean lines of minimalist European design with functional grip handles for enhanced usability, even wet fingers won't get in the way. 2. Wellness-inspired designs such as waterfall cascades, misting effects, and column sprays--designed to engage the prefrontal cortex, sharpening mental clarity through daily routines. 3. Design-inspired details such as linear knurling inspired by Italian pinstripes--combining beauty with everyday functionality. "Our mission at L.B.F.C is to transform daily routines into extraordinary experiences," says Niyati Malhan, Director of Finance and Operations at L.B.F.C. "Every faucet, shower system, and fixture we design carries our signature blend of Dutch creativity and German precision--creating not just products, but personal sanctuaries." The L.B.F.C. Difference: Where Art and Engineering Meet It is a top brand for high-end bathroom fixtures. It is one of a kind because it can combine modern engineering with old-fashioned craftsmanship. People all over the world who own costly homes, as well as builders and interior designers, opt for this brand as it cares about quality, imagination, and making the world a better place. The pillars of difference of L.B.F.C are: 1. Signature Dutch Design: Elegant, minimalist lines and natural forms derived from the finest European craftsmanship. 2. Precision German Engineering: Impeccable mechanisms guaranteeing long-term performance. 3. Combined Wellness Specifications: Fixtures that help you relax and feel better. 4. Renewable luxury is using materials and processes that are good for the environment without giving up beauty. Also, it spends a lot of money on studying and developing so that it can stay ahead of new trends in luxury lifestyles. In order to guarantee the fact that all the collections are not only valuable but also emotionally-resonant to the consumers that employ them, the firm collaborates with the architects, wellness professionals and interior designers. Such a cohesive design philosophy makes L.B.F.C leader of luxury bathroom market, which introduces novelties and sustainability to the global community. Spa-Like Bathroom Collections Featuring L.B.F.C 1. EVO Stripes Collection * Breaking with tradition, Italian-inspired linear knurling. * Five high-end PVD finishes available for unparalleled durability and aesthetic appeal. 2. Rainfall Shower Systems * Designed to provide maximum water dispersion and even pressure. * Engineered for a luxury shower experience that simulates natural rain. 3. Aqua Therapy Series (Soon to be released) Hydrotherapy jets, temperature control, and integration of chromotherapy for overall wellness in the home. Sustainability and Luxury Today's wealthy customer wants style and a dedication to the environment. L.B.F.C meets the issue by employing recycled materials, technologies that save water, and production methods that use less energy at every stage of the procedure. The organization pays special attention to ensure each product presents green bathroom solutions without compromising on quality. This dedication to environmental design is coupled with longevity, allowing products to last longer--creating less waste and the necessity for less replacement. By working within environmentally friendly practices, L.B.F.C enables consumers to have sustainability without losing luxury. Global Reach and Growing Influence Headquartered in Rapperswil, L.B.F.C possesses a worldwide design and production team which enables it to serve diverse cultural tastes and exacting customer expectations of European standards. The products of the company are in high demand in India and the Middle East for luxury residential complexes, boutique hotels, and custom home projects, and in Europe. Through the delivery of personalized bathroom solutions, L.B.F.C allows homeowners and designers to create environments reflecting personal style with lasting functionality. About L.B.F.C L.B.F.C is a premium bathroom brand that specializes in producing quality bathroom fixtures as a blend of design mastery and engineering excellence. With its roots in German engineering and Dutch style, the company deals in high-end faucets, luxury shower systems, and wellbeing-infused bathroom solutions. Every product of L.B.F.C gets 237 quality checks to provide unmatched durability, performance, and beauty. From spare modern designs to sumptuous statement fixtures, L.B.F.C reimagines what a bathroom can be--a retreat to elevate everyday rituals to sensations of rebirth and rejuvenation. Media Contact: Aditya Kakkar Director of Sales L.B.F.C Email: aditya@lbfc.in (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)
SALISBURY, Md. (DC News Now)  Its been more than a year since a 10-year-old boy was shot and killed while at home in Salisbury. Maryland State Police (MSP) are continuing to search for the culprit in the deadly shooting and are pleading with the community to help push the murder investigation forward.

It all happened on the night of Aug. 5, 2024, when a shooting broke out on Clay Street.

Around 10:30 p.m., the Salisbury Police Department received the 911 call and arrived at the house, where officers found 10-year-old Tyron Colbert, Jr., who had been shot. He died from his injuries in the hospital.

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State police believe that Tyrons mother and two other young children were home when the shooting took place.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE | MSP pleads for communitys help in deadly shooting of 10-year-old, increases reward to $25K

As the investigation continued, no arrests were made.

Days after the shooting on Aug. 9, officials announced the reward had increased to up to $25,000 for information that led to an arrest and conviction.

One year later, a suspect description is unknown, and the case remains open.

You can remain anonymous, we can take any kind of tips and leads even if it is something small, please reach out and help the community, help the police department, help Maryland State Policeand more importantly Tyron Colberts family as they are going through this tough time, said Lt. Kyle Clark the Commander of the Homicide Unit of the MSP during a press conference in 2024.

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Anyone with information about the shooting death of Tyron should call MSP at 410-453-8983, the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165, or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776, immediately.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Aug. 13It wasn't finding the jar of human teeth that really disturbed Logan Houser. Not really. No, it was the fact that it was the third time he'd found a jar of human teeth that really unnerved him.

If you can expect to come across three jars of human teeth over the course of two years at your job, you are either the world's most unnerving dentist or you work at a junk removal service, as Houser does.

It's a good job for a college kid with a strong back and a flexible schedule, which is why Raccoon Junk Removal owner Levi Parham tends to hire students.

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That, and maybe the fact that your average 18 to 24-year-old has perhaps a greater-than-average appreciation of  or at least tolerance for  for the truly weird.

" We've been doing it for a little over two years now, and we hit a 1,000 clean outs about a month ago," Parham said. " Some moms are sweet and they'll keep their kids' baby teeth, but we found adult teeth in jars multiple times where somebody's kept grandma's teeth for whatever reason."

Somebody find these kids a therapist

If there's anything that interviews with Parham, Houser, and Houser's roommate and fellow junk removal specialist Caleb Lawson proved, it's that very few people give much thought to the mental state of the folks who must eventually sort through their long-hoarded stuff.

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What would it do to one's mental health, for instance, to discover a bathroom closet containing not towels and medicine but an extremely detailed shrine to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson?

Parham's employees  or perhaps the therapists they will all hire in 20 years  are going to find out.

How would it feel to come across a different bathroom arranged in such a way as to provide a maximally perfect view of Elvis memorabilia while soaking in a clawfoot tub?

" It really made me uncomfortable," Lawson said. "Why would you have that directly in front of your bathtub? I'm not real sure."

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The art of living

The job has its perks  Lawson and Houser have furnished their shared apartment from stem to stern with furniture, trinkets, and art from the various houses they've emptied. The stuff is a perfect fit for a college pad: neon beer signs, funky paintings, worn but serviceable sofas, a humidor.

But there's some art that's just too strange for young men hoping not to scare away prospective dates.

Like the large painting of a bald eagle, with the eagle's feathers rendered not in paint but in real, strokable fur.

Or the trio of cayman taxidermies, all dressed up for a very strange night out on the town  one in a top hat, one in a princess dress, and one in a matador's cape.

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Or the photograph that consists solely of an extreme close-up of a pig's snout.

Or the sculpture of the cats atop a bed of seashells, locked in what one can only be described as an all-too-human lover's embrace, with "full on kissing, lips and everything," according to Houser.

"You ever see those things on TV and you wonder who buys them?" Parham said. "We find the houses where people bought them."

More examples. A tanning bed that, by all appearances, is just for your feet. Or a hat shaped like a fish. Or an enormous wall-mountable moose head. An improbably gigantic painting of a masked Mexican wrestler in space. The large python box Raccoon Junk Removal was asked to disassemble after the python in question attempted to ingest its owner.

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These are all items that have been found in Haywood homes, or in nearby counties. The less said about the various ways this crew has discovered stored human feces, the better. This is a family publication.

Speaking of familes, Parham said that he occasionally brings stuff home for his own. But lately his wife has been threatening to hire Parnham's own workers to clean out their house. So Raccoon Junk Removal donates a good amount of what they find  including nearly a hundred boxes of extra-large adult diapers.

If you thought those diapers were donated to, say, a nearby retirement home, you were wrong. That's the kind of thing you'd read in a normal story, and this is not a normal story.

No, those donated diapers ended up finding their way to a woman who puts them on her flock of physically disabled goats.

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And that is, within the context of this tale, the only appropriate use for them.

So look upon your neighbors with well-deserved suspicion, Haywood County. Because according to the ones who know, Terrance from next door might have a bathroom chock full of tiny stuffed bears, each painted a different color, each seeming to stare glassily at ... something ... in the middle distance.

And maybe, just maybe, his bathtub is placed just so.
The contested case hearing over state permits issued to Enbridge Energy for its Line 5 reroute project have begun, and both sides in the case already have staked out positions at opposite ends of the spectrum.

During opening statements Aug. 12, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources attorney Michael Kowalkowski said the review process for the Line 5 reroute might be the most comprehensive in the history of the agency, adding that the environmental impact statement was about 900 pages long.

On the other side, EarthJustice attorney Stefanie Tsosie noted its the beginning of wild rice season  one of the many things at stake for the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. If something happens to the water, land or the sloughs that hold the wild rice beds, the tribe has nowhere else to go, Tsosie explained.

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And while Tsosie noted that the DNR will continue to emphasize the length of the review and the number of conditions it includes, it does not disguise the lack of baseline information.

With administrative law judge Angela Chaput Foy presiding at Northwood Technical College in Ashland, EarthJustice, Clean Wisconsin and the DNR all made statements, and 46 members of the public were able testify. Enbridge submitted a written statement. Each person was given four minutes to speak.

Two petitions for a contested case hearing were filed last year after the DNR issued its permits for the Line 5 reroute. EarthJustice filed on behalf of the Bad River Band; Clean Wisconsin and Midwest Environmental Advocates jointly filed a separate petition as well. The groups argue that the project does not meet state water quality standards, and the impact will be irreversible.

Juli Kellner, a spokesperson with Enbridge, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that support for the Line 5 project was abundantly clear during the Aug. 12 statements.

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"This was evidenced by the many representatives of unions, businesses, Native-owned businesses, trade and business associations, and others who took time to provide testimony," Kellner said.

Enbridge is under a June 2026 court-ordered deadline to get the pipeline off Bad River Band land  although that decision could get overturned. The oil company first proposed the 41-mile reroute around the Band's land in 2019. While the project will get Line 5 off the tribe's land around the reservation, it would still be within the watershed that impacts the tribe's land.

Clean Wisconsin Attorney Evan Feinauer noted during the opening statements that the tribe's land is still very much at risk.

An oil spill of any meaningful size could be catastrophic. Such a spill is far from outlandish given the proposed routes geology, steep slopes, erodible soils, and numerous other risks," Feinauer said. "Despite all of this, DNR issued the permits anyway. It knew about most of these problems, and it should have known about the rest.

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Enbridge told the Journal Sentinel it hopes to begin construction later this year, after all permits are secured. A 2021 estimate suggests the project would cost $450 million.

As critical 7-week hearing on Enbridge Line 5 reroute kicks off, we answer top 10 questions

Nearly six hours of public testimony heard in Ashland

Roughly 200 people attended in-person, with upwards of 80 observing virtually. Testimony will continue Sept. 3 in Madison at the Hill Farms State Office Building.

Those who testified in Ashland were largely in support of the reroute project, citing propane needs in cold weather states, jobs that will be created during construction, and the pipeline's safe and reliable history. Enbridge has touted that the reroute project will bring in 700 jobs and roughly $135 million to the regional economy.

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Angel Laidlaw, president of Centergy, a central Wisconsin development consortium, argued that Line 5 has been a cornerstone of energy, and "the relocation is a must for our communities." The pipeline is a reliable energy resource and not having it threatens the ability to stay safe in the winter, Laidlaw said.

Opponents of the project noted that Line 5 is aging infrastructure, and continues to risk tribal treaty rights, the Great Lakes and clean drinking water. The recent Milwaukee 1,000-year flood event was even mentioned, as a warning about climate change and flood risks when the land loses its ability to store water.

Gracie Waukechon, a member of the Bad River Band, argued that Enbridge has a bad track record, with the Kalamazoo River oil spill in 2010 still one of the largest inland oil spills in U.S. history, and the 2024 Line 6 spill, which released nearly 70,000 gallons in the Town of Oakland in Jefferson County. Waukechon noted that the DNR took about a month to notify the public of the Oakland spill.

Clean water is the basis of our humanity," Waukechon said.

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Along Wisconsin's northern shores, Line 5 continues to pit tribal culture against Big Oil

The public can tune in to the weeks-long hearing

The schedule and locations for the remainder of the case are listed below.

Sept. 3: Public testimony in Madison

Sept. 4-12: Midwest Environmental Advocates and Clean Wisconsin present their case in Madison

Sept. 15-19: Bad River Band presents its case in Ashland

Sept. 22-26: Enbridge presents its case in Madison

Sept. 29-Oct 3: DNR presents its case in Madison

The public can observe the hearing in person, or virtually via Microsoft Teams. To connect by video, use Teams on the web or app, then enter the Meeting ID: 247 227 844 895 and passcode: aK6Bt7Ye.

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To connect by phone, dial 1-608-571-2209, and then enter the Meeting ID: 589 521165# when prompted.

Caitlin Looby covers the Great Lakes and the environment for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Reach her at clooby@gannett.com , and follow her on X @caitlooby.

Caitlin's work is supported by the Brico Fund, Fund for Lake Michigan, Barbara K. Frank, and individual contributions. Grants and donations help make this reporting possible. The Journal Sentinel maintains full editorial control.

To learn more about our community-funded journalism initiatives, or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit https://givebutter.com/milwaukee-journal-sentinel . Checks can be addressed to Local Media Foundation with JS Environment in the memo, then mailed to: Local Media Foundation, P.O. Box 85015, Chicago, IL 60689.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Hearing begins on DNR permits for Enbridge Line 5 reroute
Congress is out of session with members on vacation or engaging with constituents. Normally the August recess is quiet, but this year has been radically different. We explore the current controversies and the potential impact on Utah politics.

Texas Republicans are attempting the very rare action of redrawing congressional boundaries mid-decade. Democratic Texas lawmakers fled the state to prevent a vote. Blue-state governors are threatening the same tactic. Utah could be forced into mid-decade redistricting from an upcoming court decision. What are the effects on national and local politics?

Cowley: The anticipated Texas maps will create new Hispanic Republican districts, but the real question is whether Texas should be doing this with unconventional timing. Trump and Gov. Abbott cite significant errors in the 2020 census as justification. Covid created numerous challenges during the last census. Counting immigrants living in the country illegally had an outsized impact in Texas, further skewing their numbers. Lastly, modern technology makes creating, then altering, these maps fairly easy and cheap, making a mid-decade fix less burdensome than before.

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Before Democrats light torches and brandish pitchforks, keep in mind that Democrat-controlled California, Illinois and Maryland have some of the most egregiously gerrymandered maps in the country. New Yorks Supreme Court found their Legislature had grossly ignored the rules when drawing lines, and continue to cross them. There are several infamously creative districts nationwide  for example, the earmuff in Illinois and the lasso in Arizona. Gerrymandering is a political tradition that isnt exclusive to just Republicans or Democrats. Both have drawn districts that look more like ink blots than communities of interest.

Texas Democrats skipping town to avoid their duties as elected officials is cowardly but provides plenty of political theater. Districting is an intensely political act, so Democrats theatrics are hypocritical at best.

The pending decision from Utahs highest court regarding redistricting could plunge Utah into the same mid-decade battle as Texas.

Pignanelli: Stability in government is essential to national character  [and] among the chief blessings of civil society.  James Madison, Federalist No. 37

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I am not a constitutional scholar, but have read the document (many times), the Federalist Papers and other valuable treatises. Therefore, I believe when legislative bodies  Congress and state  surrender constitutional prerogatives to other branches of government or entities, they erode principles underlying our republic.

Thus I believe legislatures (including Texas) have the primary responsibility and authority for redistricting of federal and state offices. But to do so mid-decade is contrary to the spirit of our governing documents as articulated by the founders.

The Constitution creates a careful balance between an energetic government and one that assures stability. Conducting redistricting (except by court order) more than once every 10 years dramatically undermines confidence and dependability. If many states decide to redraw the boundaries every two to four years, chaos will dominate. There is a reason Texas dangerous path was rarely pursued in the past two centuries.

A Utah district court will soon rule on the next steps for a potential redrawing of congressional boundaries. The current national controversy will cause pressure on both sides for a partisan outcome. Next summer may bring more drama.

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Congressional town hall meetings have become battlegrounds reflecting the current divisiveness in the country. Emotional outbursts, from enraged citizens or activists, are dominating such gatherings across the country. (This happened earlier in the year in Utah.) Some members are resorting to tele-town halls and other structured formats. Town halls are a longstanding tradition of our democracy, but are they becoming endangered?

Cowley: Times change and technology does along with it. People and businesses are regularly conducting important meetings virtually where even five years ago, they would have only been held in person. This evolving trend comes at a cost. People are less engaged and more distracted in virtual meetings. They are less personal, more sterile and highly censored.

Im disappointed in the mob-like behaviors of my fellow Utahns who booed and jeered two of our hardworking members of Congress. I dont blame elected officials for moving to a more controlled environment; I just hope this doesnt lead to less access and accountability to constituents. If this becomes the norm, it will be harder to return to more authentic, in-person interactions.

Pignanelli: The town hall meeting is an American activity developed long before the republic was established. It is crushing to admit this important interchange between elected officials and voters is a victim to professional political tactics. Their goal of gathering clips for the media effectively prevents earnest audience members from engaging and influencing.

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As an elected official, I conducted such meetings and found them invigorating and informative. Attendees came to learn or to disagree, but in a manner that allowed fellow participants to understand the discussion.

Artificial intelligence cannot save the town hall meetings, so the alternative  through electronic means or targeted groups  will become a mainstay in the near future.

Will this summertime partisan wrangling prevent the necessary compromises to avoid a government shutdown when Congress reconvenes next month?

Cowley: A looming shutdown used to seem a lot more ominous, but is overplayed. If Democrats try to drag it out too long, it will only work against their long-term goals, yet they will try.

Pignanelli: The unanticipated Texas redistricting will harden partisan differences. Consequently, a government shutdown is likely in October.
In many ways, crime is a matter of perception and tolerance.

Yes, major indicators  from Washington, D.C., metropolitan police records to the FBI  show that crime rates are down in the nations capital. In 1991, the district recorded 482 murders. Through July of this year, it has recorded 96.

As crime analytics expert Jeff Asher reports on his blog, the number of carjackings rose sharply in Washington in 2023 but have since fallen. However, they remain at numbers higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

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More concerning perhaps is the revelation that since the beginning of 2025, juveniles have made up more than 50% of arrests related to carjacking, according to D.C. police. As Deseret News reporter Cami Mondeaux wrote, a majority of those arrests are made up of teens who are 15 and 16 years old.

How much crime is too much?

The question is, how much is too much? And can Americans be proud of the nations capital city? The answers are subjective, but perceptions often carry more weight than reality.

President Trump announced this week that he is deploying the National Guard to take charge of police efforts in the nations capital city. He cited increases in juvenile crime and focused particularly on the case of a 19-year-old former DOGE worker who was attacked by 10 juveniles in a carjacking incident.

For that young man, were confident statistics mean little. What he suffered was an outrage, as is any violent crime. Members of Utahs congressional delegation have said their own staffers have felt unsafe at times in the district.

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Trumps unusual move, however, will be judged by how it is executed.

Homeless encampments

President Donald Trump speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Washington as from left, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, look on. | Alex Brandon

The president also said he will order the removal of homeless encampments throughout the city. He offered few details as to where the homeless would be taken, other than to indicate it would be away from the city center.

This seems to be a continuation of the presidents earlier order, issued in March. ABC News quoted Interior Secretary Doug Burgum saying that more than 70 such encampments have been removed since then.

Homelessness is a concern in many of the nations largest cities. The Wasatch Front is no exception. Finding solutions, however, can be challenging.

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In Washington, an estimated 798 people live on the street each night, according to one nonprofit. The most recent point in time census of homelessness  a nationwide one-day survey conducted yearly  found a 9% decrease in overall homelessness.

However, such surveys are often criticized for being incomplete, as some homeless people hide from authorities. Actual numbers are elusive, just as a certain percentage of crimes are never reported to police.

Efforts must be humane

Any effort at eliminating homelessness should emphasize the need to treat people humanely and to provide meaningful medical services and other programs to help them return to mainstream society. They should not simply be removed and forgotten.

And any effort to eliminate crime should be done carefully, avoiding racial profiling and with an eye toward the rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

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President Trump is within his rights to take control of D.C. police. Section 740 of the Home Rule Act gives him that authority for 48 hours, with an extension to 30 days in times of emergency. He may be the first president to use this authority, but the legality is unquestionable.

Washington is a unique case

Washington has a unique relationship with the federal government. Its residents first gained the ability to elect a mayor and city council during the Nixon administration. Initially, Congress had direct political control over the district.

For many Americans, facts about a falling crime rate may mean little. As a recent piece in Governing magazine put it, When you take the rising number of conspicuous retail thefts, and add in the rare but heavily publicized random incidents of violence on subways and in other public places, you have a potent recipe for widespread public concern.

The magazine quoted Adam Gelb, president of the Council on Criminal Justice, saying, The numbers [of overall serious crime] are falling back to earth, but a combination of high-profile national incidents and street-level disorder are keeping people on edge.

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The National Retail Federation published a survey recently of loss prevention and security executives at 164 mid-size to large retailers. It unveiled a growing concern about organized retail crime, shoplifting, return fraud, repeat offenses and theft related to the in-store pickup or return of merchandise that had been ordered online.

Yes, statistics show clearly that crimes of all kinds are down nationwide. Perceptions, however, say otherwise.
National Democratic politicians and mainstream media commentators have spent the last 24 hours blasting President Donald Trump for announcing a federal takeover of Washington, D.C., police. For liberal and progressive critics of the president, this is undoubtedly yet more evidence of his authoritarian tendencies.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, for instance, condemned the presidents move as a deliberate distraction from his incompetence and accused him of hypocrisy because his failure to deploy the National Guard four years ago is what contributed to January 6th  even though former Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund has repeatedly clarified that Pelosi herself was the person responsible for failing to enlist the guard.

And on CNN, Abby Phillip described Trumps takeover of the police as akin to Batman coming to save Gotham, as if thats a bad thing? I dont know about you, but Im sold!

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Now in all seriousness, theres plenty of reason to be generally suspicious of getting the feds more involved in local issues, so I understand a certain level of reflexive distrust at what Trump is doing here. I also think its important to tell the truth and be mindful of the facts, not feelings. Just because D.C. feels unsafe to some people doesnt necessarily mean that it is. We should be mindful of statistics that show that crime in the nations capital has thankfully gone down since 2023, although lets add a little asterisk to that  Ill circle back in a minute.

All that said, whether crime is technically down or technically up, its crystal clear that Washington, D.C., has too much crime, from gangland shootings to mentally ill people attacking pedestrians to flash mobs of teenagers stealing cars and vandalizing convenience stores. Thats why I find it very, very interesting that, at the local level, the relevant political authorities are not echoing the comments by national Democrats and the media.

Consider, for instance, the stance of Muriel Bowser, D.C.s incumbent Democratic mayor.

Bowser issued a face-saving statement that the federal takeover was unprecedented and unsettling. But she did not vow to fight it or to oppose it, and in fact, seems to be sending positive vibes to Trump that she wants to work with him rather than against him on this. Thats because she knows city residents are tremendously frustrated with whats happening in the district, and more police could make a difference.

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Moreover, D.C.s police union straightforwardly supports Trump on this, though the union thinks full staffing of the local police department is more important as a long-term solution.

Indeed, the things that would really go a long way toward solving the crime problem in D.C. have to do with budgeting, staffing and government competence. The major problem  the single biggest problem impacting the justice system in D.C.  is the lack of a working crime lab.

D.C.s forensics lab was de-accredited due to various problems several years back, and while its now up and running again, it has no means of processing ballistics evidence. That significantly hampers the ability of prosecutors to charge criminals effectively. As a result, D.C. has a very low prosecution rate, and a very low conviction rate, for serious crime.

We need more resources for homicide detectives and prosecutors, and also we need the backlog of superior court judges to be addressed. If you dont have the system working to investigate, prosecute and convict criminals, you will have more crime. Its that simple.

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Now lets return to that asterisk: It may not be the case that D.C.s crime statistics are even accurate. Ill let former Rep. Peter Meijer make the case:

I think Mayor Bowser may also know that theres an ongoing investigation in her police department over the potentially manipulation of those statistics, that there have been a down classing of some of the crimes. There has been a massaging of the numbers in the reporting in order to fit them more beneficially into the FBI crime stats, said the Michigan Republican. So, she may know some things that national Democrats are not paying attention to.

Food for thought.

Robby 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.

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The possibility of Texas and other like-minded states redistricting their congressional districts has captured national political attention. Gerrymandering has been a long-term controversy among the various states. Courts have also tried to exert their own political imprint upon the process.

There is, however, a looming possibility involving the Lone Star State that is not often discussed, but could have far larger political consequences.

When Texas was admitted to the Union in 1845, one of the unusual concessions was a condition that allows the state to split into additional states. So even though Democrats have heralded the possibility of adding the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico as states in order to increase the number of Democrats in Congress, few Texans realize that they have an exceptional power that could more radically reshape American politics than any amount of House redistricting.

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John Cactus Jack Garner  vice president under Franklin D. Roosevelt from 1933 to 1941 and former Speaker of the House  declared in 1932 that an area twice as large and rapidly becoming as populous as New England should have at least 10 senators, and the only way we can get them is to make five states  not five small states, mind you, but five great states.

Garners exceptional vision is consistent with the big visions of Texans, and political leaders in Texas have regularly appealed to this political right of division.

Past proponents of this idea look to the text of the 1845 congressional resolution annexing Texas: New States of convenient size not exceeding four in number, in addition to said State of Texas and having sufficient population, may, hereafter by the consent of said State, be formed out of the territory thereof, which shall be entitled to admission under the provisions of the Federal Constitution.

In 1847, Texas Gov. Isaac Van Zandt ran on the promise of dividing Texas into at least four states. Had he not died of yellow fever prior to taking office, his desire would likely have been realized.

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In 1868, west Texans opposed to slavery and in favor of equal rights for former Black slaves wrote and proposed their own constitution, attesting to such as view and nearly adopting it at a constitutional convention in Texas.

Republicans hold the presidency and Congress, plus the Texas governorship and both houses of the state legislature. This opens the door to a political Pandoras box that could change the U.S. Senate for decades. If Texas were to split into five states, eight senators could be added. A careful drawing of the new maps would allow a strong majority of those senators to end up on the right side of the aisle.

Nate Silver contemplated the ramifications of this possibility in 2009, creating a design that might leave the balance at six senators for Republicans and four for Democrats.

Much has changed in Texas since 2009. Most importantly, the El Norte region as imagined by Silver  just north of the Rio Grande  has turned decisively in Republicans favor. The region is a telling snapshot of the Democratic Partys implosion among Hispanics. The map drawn by Silver in todays Texas could easily render an eight-to-two or even nine-to-one advantage for Republicans.

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Of course, Silver would not be the one drawing the boundaries for five new states, Texas Republicans would. And it is not impossible to draw a map ending in a Republican sweep of all 10 Senate seats  and it is easy to envision a net gain of six.

Whether Gov. Greg Abbotts (R) U.S. House redistricting scheme succeeds or fails, he might want to look at the larger options. Dislodging the current log-jam in the U.S. Senate could remove obstacles surrounding executive appointments and a wider array of budget impasses common to Congress.

So yes  Republicans should consider messing with Texas.

Dr. Ben Voth is professor of rhetoric and director of debate at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. He is the author of seven academic books, including Political Campaign Communication, 10th Edition (2024) and Social Fragmentation and the Decline of American Democracy (2017).

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President Trumps decision to slap secondary sanctions on India over its imports of Russian oil, while also unleashing a tariff barrage on Indian exports, is more than a trade dispute. It is a self-inflicted wound to Americas most vital strategic partnership in Asia, and it comes at a time when China is flexing its military muscle throughout the region.

Washington has long courted India as a bulwark against an expansionist China and as a critical pillar of its free and open Indo-Pacific strategy. Yet Trumps punitive steps against India are eroding the very trust on which strategic alignment rests  to Beijings delight.

The mutual trust painstakingly built over years underpins bilateral cooperation. Once lost, it will be hard to rebuild. Even if the administration eventually reaches a trade deal with India, it may not be able to repair the damage.

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Targeting India over Russian oil purchases smacks of selective enforcement. The European Unions large imports of Russian energy products, especially liquefied natural gas, have been left untouched. Such European imports not only contribute more to Russias coffers than Indias purchases, but Europe spends more on Russian energy than on assisting Ukraine.

Trump has also spared the worlds largest buyer of Russian oil and gas: China. But India, the very country Washington has spent years courting as an Asian counterweight, has become the first victim of his secondary sanctions. This suggests Trumps tactics are less about punishing Moscow than about pressuring New Delhi.

Russian oil is a pretext to strong-arm India into accepting a Trump-dictated trade agreement, much as he foisted a largely one-sided deal on the European Union. That his tariffs on India have little to do with Russian oil is evident from one telling fact: Indian exports to the U.S. of refined fuels such as gasoline, diesel and jet fuel  increasingly made from Russian crude  remain exempt from his tariffs.

Such is the Trumpian logic. He has hit Indian non-energy exports with steep tariffs, but spared booming exports of refined fuels made largely from Russian crude. Trump seems to have no problem with Russian oil  as long as it is refined in India and then pumped into American planes, trucks and cars.

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Furthermore, given continued U.S. imports of Russian enriched uranium, fertilizers and chemicals, Trump does not seem troubled that his own administration is helping fund Russias war in Ukraine while still locked in a proxy war with Moscow.

In truth, Trump is using New Delhis Russian oil purchases as a crude bargaining tactic to secure a bilateral trade deal on his terms. India illustrates how the Trump administration has weaponized tariffs not merely to extract trade concessions but also to bind other countries more closely to American strategic and security interests. In seeking to bend India to its will, it has targeted that countrys traditionally independent approach to global affairs, including neutrality on conflicts.

Indian exports to the U.S. now face a steep 50 percent tariff, signaling the end of Trumps bromance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His moves against strategic-partner India are harsher than against China. This marks a dramatic U-turn from his first term, when bilateral relations thrived to the extent that Trump declared at a huge February 2020 rally in Modis home state of Gujarat, America loves India, America respects India, and America will always be faithful and loyal friends to the Indian people.

In Trumps second term, Modi was among the first world leaders to visit the White House, agreeing to fast-track trade negotiations. In July, the Indians believed they had reached an interim deal, awaiting only Trumps approval. But in characteristic fashion, Trump abruptly rejected the accord and embarked on punishing India.

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New Delhi has publicly criticized the Trump administrations double standards. But it is more concerned about a deeper question: If Washington can so easily turn its coercive tools on a supposed ally, what is to stop it from doing so again?

U.S.-India relations have probably plunged to their lowest point in the 21st century, thanks to Trumps economic war and his singling out of India for secondary sanctions.

The fallout will extend beyond lost trade. India could respond by doubling down on strategic autonomy  hedging between the U.S., Russia and others  and diversifying its economic and security partnerships. Trumps gamble may wring out trade concessions in the short term, but it risks undermining the security architecture in the Indo-Pacific, where unity among key democracies is the only real check on Chinas expansionism. America is effectively handing China an opening to court a disillusioned India.

New Delhi is already signaling that it has other geopolitical options. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India in the coming weeks. In less than three weeks, Modi is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, which Putin will also attend. Moscow is pushing for a revived Russia-India-China grouping.

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A stable Indo-Pacific order demands more than joint military exercises and communiques; it requires political will to accommodate each others core interests. Punishing India in ways that ignore its legitimate security and energy needs sends the opposite message.

Ironically, Trumps sanctions-and-tariffs blitz may have done India a favor by exposing the strategic reality of Americas unreliability. By presenting the U.S. as a transactional power, Trump has signaled that Washington cannot be counted on to separate short-term commercial considerations from long-term strategic imperatives.

Trumps economic coercion risks alienating a vast, still-growing market that U.S. firms see as central to their future growth. India remains the worlds fastest-growing major economy, and as many other economies stagnate and populations shrink, it stands out as a rising giant.

Sacrificing a linchpin of Indo-Pacific stability for a fleeting win in a tariff war is not tough bargaining. It is strategic recklessness  and a gift to China.

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Brahma Chellaney is a geostrategist and the author of nine books, including the award-winning Water: Asias New Battleground.

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On July 31, the Trump administration announced that it would raise tariffs on Canadian imports to 35 percent, citing Canadas failure to meaningfully address the growing use of its territory by fentanyl traffickers.

Canadas response has been fractured. Federal officials called for renewed dialogue, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford demanded retaliatory tariffs.

If that sounds like an overreaction from the U.S., its not. Its a reaction to a real and mounting problem: Cartels are using Canada  not in theory, but in practice. Fentanyl super-labs have been discovered in British Columbia. Precursor chemicals from China are entering Canadian ports before making their way into domestic markets or rerouted across the U.S. border.

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The numbers are still small compared to the southern border. Fentanyl seizures along the northern corridor comprise less than 1 percent of total U.S. interdictions, but theyre rising.

And while the raw volume was low, the potency was not. According to White House estimates, the fentanyl seized from Canada in the past year was sufficient to kill more than 9 million Americans.

The question isnt whether Canada is the dominant trafficking route. Its whether its increasingly being utilized. And it is.

The reason is structural. Canada has long been exploited by criminal networks due to regulatory blind spots, fragmented enforcement and opaque corporate formation laws.

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Canada is notorious for money-laundering through real estate. Trade-based money laundering schemes are commonly exploited. And bribery and corruption have long been identified as a substantial money-laundering risk. Canada, for too long, has treated organized crime as a localized public safety issue, not a transnational finance and border security risk.

The Trump administrations tariff spike isnt just a trade war headline. Its part of a broader strategy of nation-level accountability.

Venezuelas Cartel de los Soles, a state-embedded trafficking network directly linked to the Maduro regime, was designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity under expanded fentanyl authorities just days before the action against Canada.

Mexico has not been spared, either. In February, the U.S. imposed 25 percent fentanyl-linked tariffs on Mexican imports, citing the governments failure to curb cartel flows. In July, those tariffs were scheduled to increase to 30 percent.

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Although Mexico negotiated a temporary reprieve, committing additional National Guard resources to its northern border in February, the escalation framework remains in place. The goal is not symbolic but structural. Pressure the sovereign, disrupt the enabler.

Canada now finds itself in that same pressure chamber. Unlike Venezuela, it is a U.S. ally and a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement partner. But those relationships dont exempt governments from consequences.

Canadas fentanyl enforcement effort has been reactive, fragmented and, until very recently, deeply under-resourced. That posture changed the moment the 35 percent tariff went live.

To its credit, Ottawa has shown that it is willing to act with urgency. The newly announced border security initiative includes enhanced lab detection infrastructure, dual-nation strike teams and an aggressive crackdown on shell entities used to obscure cross-border fund flows. These moves are overdue.

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In 2024, Canadas two largest banks, Royal Bank of Canada and TD Bank, were at the center of major anti-money laundering failures.

Royal Bank of Canadas U.S. subsidiary, City National Bank, was fined $65 million for violating the Bank Secrecy Act, while TD admitted in U.S. federal court to allowing over $650 million in suspected fentanyl proceeds to flow through its accounts.

TD paid a $3 billion penalty and agreed to oversight by a government-appointed monitor. Regulators called the sectors anti-money laundering risk under-appreciated, exposing deep structural gaps that persisted until the failures became too large to ignore.

None of this is partisan. None of this is rhetorical. It is structural enforcement built around financial leverage, and it reflects a doctrine that has quietly reshaped the American approach to trafficking: Drug routes are no longer just a law enforcement issue. They are a sovereign accountability issue. The tools of response  tariffs, sanctions, financial denial mechanisms  reflect that shift.

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Canadas economy isnt the target. Its vulnerabilities are. But if they remain unaddressed, the economic impact will be severe. Trade penalties will expand. Correspondent banks will de-risk. Investment flows will hesitate. And trust  financial, diplomatic and regulatory  will erode.

The Canadian government has a narrow window to solidify enforcement credibility. That means closing anti-money laundering loopholes, coordinating proactively with U.S. agencies, and enacting a serious national strategy against transnational organized crime.

Not just speeches. Not just appointees. Results. Because fentanyl isnt waiting. Neither are the traffickers. And neither, apparently, is the Trump administration.

Brett Erickson is managing principal at Obsidian Risk Advisors and an advisory board member at the Loyola University Chicago Laws Center for Compliance Studies and DePaul University Driehaus College of Business.

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The Trump administrations America First approach to international relations is transforming the democratic world order the U.S. helped create.

An internal instruction from Secretary of State Marco Rubio to U.S. diplomats may be the arrow that finishes off what the U.S. has meant to those fighting through the ballot box for freedom and democracy.

In an apparent pursuit of policies that promote national interests, no longer will the United States comment on foreign elections except to offer short, congratulatory messages toward the winner.

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Also, such messages should avoid opining on the fairness or the integrity of an electoral process, its legitimacy, or the democratic values of the country in question.

The integrity of democratic elections has been a cornerstone of international law and an important source of legitimacy for sovereign governments under the United Nations Charters Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The long-accepted standard has been that the votes of citizens in a free and fair election is a fundamental right.

Elections engage every major societal institution and constitute a dramatic stress test for societies. The reaction to a stolen election can be extreme and can result in violence.

At a minimum, a stolen election undermines the legitimacy of the sitting government. An election infected by fraud that undermines a sovereign government is hardly in Americas national interest.

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The U.S. has been a global leader in election observation for the past 40 years. The process used to determine whether an election is free and fair has evolved. It involves an assessment of a nations election law, the integrity of its election commissions rulings, the conduct of political parties during the pre-election period, the fairness of access to the media and a rigorous observation of the vote and the tabulation of results by local and international observers.

While there had been observation efforts by human rights groups in the 1980s, the most important breakthrough came when the U.S. sponsored major international observer groups for the snap election in the Philippines in 1986.

The U.S. government sponsored an official delegation to observe the election and USAID and the National Endowment for Democracy supported an international delegation organized by the National Democratic Institute and the International Republican Institute.

The international delegation sent observers from 30 nations to all corners of the Philippine archipelago. They partnered with a Philippine organization called the National Citizens Movement for Free Elections, a civic group with sponsorship from the business community and the Catholic Church.

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The National Citizens Movement for Free Elections undertook a parallel vote count. Its members turned in the vote tabulations from every voting place, thus making it difficult for the ruling party to cheat in the vote counting process.

The citizens movement count and the examples of fraud collected by the National Democratic Institute-International Republican Institute delegation provided all the evidence that was needed. The voters rose up and a People Power revolution forced the Ferdinand Marcos regime to step down.

Less than two years later, Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet lost in a plebiscite that had been designed to keep him in power for another eight years. The National Democratic Institute sponsored another international delegation, this one led by a former President of Spain, Adolfo Suarez.

A parallel vote count was employed, and Chilean political leaders on the left and right who had witnessed the Philippines vote joined Suarez in calling upon the Chilean military to release the results showing that Pinochet had lost.

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By now, the world embraced the concept of election observation, and many governments  particularly those in the new democracies of Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union  wanted observers who would confirm election results.

Longstanding ruling parties, such as the Institutional Revolutionary Party in Mexico and the Socialist Party in Senegal, concerned that their legitimacy was being challenged, requested assistance in reforming their election systems.

USAID and other donor agencies began to finance election system reforms and observers. The United Nations Development Program and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe created election monitoring units to meet the new demand.

Now it appears that the worlds leader in democracy promotion and election observation is turning its back on a vital element of democracy.

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The underlying motivation seems to be the desire to make deals with authoritarian governments the administration seeks to befriend. If these governments were called out for denying their people the right to a free and fair election, dealmaking might suffer. Better to turn a blind eye!

Yet the administration shows no reluctance to lecture our European allies on how to treat right-wing populist parties, as in the case of Germanys neo-Nazi party, the Alternative for Germany Party. Or to endorse a right-wing opposition presidential candidate in Poland, or to chastise the High Court in Romania for canceling a flawed election, or to charge the government of South Africa with genocide because of the way white farmers are being treated.

It seems that interfering in the internal affairs of democratic nations is fair game. Yet commenting on the efficacy of elections is forbidden.

It is said that democracy is a journey, not a destination. The U.S. has never achieved democratic perfection, but it has worked assiduously to make it work better at home and abroad. President Ronald Reagan called it an obligation of democracies to share best practices with other nations.

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Tremendous progress has been made in the management of elections around the globe thanks to pro-democracy organizations supported by the U.S. government.

Rubio was once a strong supporter of this effort. His latest message to American diplomats marks a sad day for the democracy promotion mission.

One hopes that 40 years of progress will not be extinguished by an ill-advised instruction.

J. Brian Atwood was president of the National Democratic Institute from 1985 to 1993. He served as administrator of USAID in the Clinton administration.

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VMPL New Delhi [India], August 13: Qure.ai, a leading Indian deep-tech company and global healthcare AI pioneer, hosted a high-level roundtable on August 6 at the Constitution Club of India. The event brought together Members of Parliament, senior bureaucrats, public health leaders, and international development experts to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening India's public healthcare systems. The roundtable focused on bringing to light the diverse challenges faced by India's public health system, as voiced by policymakers from across the country. Members of Parliament representing rural and underserved constituencies highlighted gaps in early diagnosis, overburdened health workers, and limited infrastructure--issues that could be effectively addressed through AI-enabled tools. By grounding the conversation in real, on-the-ground realities, the event demonstrated how healthcare AI, when responsibly integrated, could serve as a practical solution to systemic problems. The gathering brought together prominent figures, including Members of Parliament Shri K. Francis George (Kottayam, Kerala), Shri Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj (Kolhapur, Maharashtra), and Shri Darshan Singh Chaudhary (Hoshangabad, Madhya Pradesh), as well as Shri Sudhaker Singh, former Agriculture Minister of Buxar, Bihar. Leaders from the global development sector--such as Mr. Harish Iyer (Gates Foundation), Dr. Jacob Creswell (Stop TB Partnership), Dr. Preet Deep Singh (APNA and Startup India), and Mr. Savio Rodrigues (founder, GoaChronicle)--also contributed to the discussion. Key points raised during the roundtable included the growing burden on frontline health workers, delays in disease detection, and the lack of scalable diagnostic infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions. Several speakers highlighted the urgent need to integrate AI-driven tools into India's healthcare framework, especially for early diagnosis of tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases. Shri Darshan Singh Chaudhary delivered a compelling statement in Hindi, calling AI "the need of the hour" for rural healthcare and urging greater focus on its implementation in resource-constrained areas. Though no formal partnerships were announced, the event generated substantial interest from Members of Parliament and senior officials to explore collaborative models with Qure.ai. Attendees conveyed support for future pilots and initiatives, recognising the company's potential to deliver meaningful outcomes across public health programmes. "This roundtable was about action, not announcements," said Prashant Warier, CEO of Qure.ai. "The presence of such diverse and respected voices shows that the ecosystem is ready to move from intent to impact. We're focused on real-world use cases, grounded policy support, and long-term commitment. Responsible AI is no longer optional; it has to be part of the foundation." Qure.ai, recently named to the TIME100 Most Influential Companies list for 2025, is the only Indian company to feature in this year's edition. With over 4,500 deployments across more than 100 countries, including 1,200 sites in 25 Indian states, its AI solutions are used daily in real-world clinical settings, whether in rural mobile screening vans or high-volume emergency departments. The company's AI models, particularly those designed for chest X-ray interpretation, can detect conditions such as tuberculosis, lung nodules, lung cancer, heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) within seconds. Qure's solutions have cleared findings and regulatory approvals in 92 countries.Qure's chest X-ray AI solution has been evaluated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and included in its policy guidance for tuberculosis screening, including in settings without access to a human reader.. In addition to diagnostics, Qure's large language model-powered tools are helping healthcare providers generate structured reports and digitise medical records--critical functions for consistent and responsive care delivery. Qure's partnerships with AstraZeneca, Medtronic India, and Johnson & Johnson Medtech further demonstrate the platform's credibility and interoperability. These collaborations are not limited to product integration--they reflect the trust major Pharma and med-tech players place in Qure's technology and vision. With its latest Series D funding, Qure.ai is focused on deepening its presence in settings where the impact is immediate, from government-run primary health centres to tertiary hospitals. The company's solutions are designed to work within existing clinical workflows, ensuring that innovation complements rather than disrupts care delivery. The roundtable concluded on a strong note of alignment. Legislators, administrators, and public health experts echoed the belief that AI is not a futuristic add-on, but a present-day necessity to build more efficient, equitable, and scalable healthcare systems. The event has laid the groundwork for future collaborations, more policy engagement, and the continued recognition of Qure.ai as a quiet but essential partner in India's health innovation journey. About Qure.ai Qure.ai is a global health tech company that uses deep learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make healthcare more accessible and equitable for patients worldwide. Qure's solutions power the efficient identification and management of Tuberculosis (TB), Lung Cancer and Neurocritical findings to support clinicians and propel developments in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. The company empowers healthcare by helping to identify conditions fast, prioritize treatment planning and ultimately improve quality of patient life. Qure.ai has presence in over 100 countries, with regional offices in London and New York. The company is also part of the 2025 class of Time100 Most Influential Companies by Time Magazine. (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)
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A family of five is dead after an apparent murder-suicide in Josephine County, according to Oregon State Police.

All five deaths were discovered inside the home on Hussey Lane in the Pickett Creek area on Monday morning after deputies said they received a request to perform a welfare check on someone who had not shown up to work that day.

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Josephine County deputies and OSP officers entered the home after observing suspicious conditions around the premises.

It appeared that all five residents  a 40-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman with three children ages 7, 9, and 11  had all been shot and killed, according to investigators.

Owners of NE Portlands Crash House sue city, gas company for $1.2 million

Officials said the deceased man, Chad Scott Behee, is now the suspect of the murder-suicide incident.

OSP is leading the investigation with the assistance of the Grants Pass Police Department.

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact law enforcement.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Canadians are skipping Oregon as a vacation destination this year in light of recent actions made by President Trump.

The Oregon Tourism Commission, Travel Oregon, recently shared some of the messages they received from Canadian visitors.

We will miss our visit and spending money in your lovely state, said one person in an email. As a Canadian, its my duty to say Sorry, but Im not sure I mean it.

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They said that the words and actions of the president have left them no choice but to boycott U.S. goods and services, in addition to cancelling their travel plans to Oregon.

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Due to your Presidents ongoing threats of tariffs and even threatening to make our country the 51st state  a literal threat of annexation  my friends and I have decided to cancel our hotel reservations and move our vacation destination to within Canada instead, another person said in an email.

Our original plans to the Oregon coast would have seen our 6 families spend around a week on the beautiful Oregon coast likely spending well over $20,000 in direct investment in your economy. Instead, we will spend that money at home in Canada, the email said.

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Another person said they had cancelled the trip they were planning to Washington and Oregon later this year.

Vinyl DJ duo featuring The Lord of the Rings star shouts out Portland burger joint

The reason is, you see, your president is waging an unprecedented economic attack on my country, Canada. Canada is the United States largest customer, weve integrated our economies, and shed blood with each other in global conflicts as allies, they said. And now, our country is under siege by your president. Canadians are angry, and theyre acting. They are rapidly shifting to non-U.S. products, and canceling trips to America.

Overall visits to the U.S. from Canada have declined 23.7% since the beginning of the year, according to a July 2025 Oxford Economics Tourism Economics report. International visits to the U.S. have declined across the board, but fallout from Canada has been the steepest.

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Cities located close to the U.S.-Canadian border are the hardest hit. The steepest year-over-year declines are expected in Seattle, Portland and Detroit, according to the report.

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Orleans Parish Clerk of Court meets with Louisiana State Police regarding court documents dumped

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  The Orleans Parish Criminal Clerk of Court, Darren Lombard, met with state police as they investigate the dumping of court documents in a landfill. It is something the clerk of court hopes that, once its resolved, never occurs again.

Why did they decide unilaterally without checking with the clerk of court to destroy those? said Metropolitan Crime Commission President Rafael Goyeneche.

According to Lombard, about 75% of the documents have since been recovered.

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But Lombard says the process has cost both time and money.

Going through our inventory list, legacy inventory list, to see what was there and what is not there currently. So, we have to go through the process of making sure those documents get restored, said Lombard.

Undermines public trust, Gov. Landry orders LSP investigation into dumped court records

Lombard says the city has been cooperative, even offering a location for documents to be stored permanently. He hopes an incident like this never happens again.

We want to make sure that it is secure and that we can safely move those documents into that location when it becomes available. Available to the public and for reporters and anyone who wants to do research, said Lombard.

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Gov. Jeff Landry has ordered state police to look into what happened.

Both Lombard and Goyeneche welcome the investigation, with Goyeneche saying state troopers will treat this as a criminal investigation.

Attempting to determine is if that violated any state laws. If you destroy a public record, that could potentially be a felony in this, said Goyeneche.

Former New Orleans CAO accepts new position at Audubon Nature Institute

The citys Chief Administrative Officer Joe Threat previously acknowledged the mishap, but believes it was an accident as staff worked to demolish Hurricane Katrina trailers.

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Goyeneche says state police will have to determine whether it was intentional or not, adding that it shows how things can go wrong when theres a lack of communication between agencies.

When you have city agencies that are not working together, you increase the potential of something like this occurring. Importance of communication, coordination and cooperation, said Goyeneche.

Statement from Darren Lombard, Clerk of Criminal District Court and Chief Elections Officer for Orleans Parish after meeting: I had an excellent meeting today with investigators from the Louisiana State Police regarding the court records that were needlessly destroyed by the City. The LSP now has a clearer understanding of the importance of these documents and the Citys legal obligation to ensure their safe, secure storageor to provide the necessary funding for the Clerks Office to do so.



Destroying court records is a crime of negligence at a minimum. I am confident the LSP will move swiftly to identify the individual or individuals responsible and determine the appropriate consequences.



I remain grateful for their prompt attention to addressing this egregious breach of duty.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.

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Russian independent media outlet Mediazona, in collaboration with the BBC Russian service, has confirmed the identities of 121,507 Russian military personnel killed in Ukraine.

The publications' latest report covers the period of February 24, 2022 to July 31, 2025. Since it was last updated at the start of July, 2,353 additional Russian military personnel have been confirmed killed.

The journalists note that the actual figures are likely significantly higher, as their verified information comes from public sources such as obituaries, posts by relatives, memorial community tree-plantings, regional media reports, statements from local authorities, among other sources.

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Moscow and Kyiv rarely officially report their losses. Ukraine estimates that Russia's overall casualties during the full-scale war have surpassed 1 million.

In a briefing to reported on Aug. 12, President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russian losses are approximately three times greater than that of Ukraine, without specifying the total number of losses suffered.

In an podcast interview on Aug. 12, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that 60,000 Russian soldiers were killed in July, while U.S. President Donald Trump claimed on Aug. 1 that the number stood closer to 20,000.

The reported death toll now includes 33,100 volunteers, 18,000 recruited prisoners, and 13,300 mobilized soldiers, according to the media outlets. Over 5,400 officers have also been confirmed to have been killed.

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Amid renewed summer offensives in multiple sectors of the front, Russia has steadily gained ground in eastern Ukraine and Kursk Oblast in recent months but at the cost of heavy casualties as well as equipment losses. Among other units, internal documents published on July 17 by Ukraine's "I Want to Live" government project show that Russia's 41st Combined Arms Army fighting in eastern Ukraine has suffered "catastrophic" losses.

Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of the Prisoners of War (POWs) said on June 12 said that more than 100,000 Russian families have contacted a Ukrainian-run initiative in search of information about missing Russian soldiers.

As of Aug. 12, Ukraine's General Staff estimates that Russia has lost 1,065,220 troops in Ukraine since the start of the war on Feb. 24, 2022. The numbers are largely in-line with estimates made by Western intelligence agencies.

The Kyiv Independent cannot independently verify the total number of casualties sustained by either side.

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The outlet published the complete list of identified casualties for the first time in February, marking three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the publication, volunteers manually enter and verify each record to prevent duplicate entries in the database.

Read also: Everything we know about Russias rapid advance in Donetsk Oblast ahead of key talks with Trump









Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  The newly-opened Owl Creek Landing in Virginia Beach is getting ready to host a free Community Day on Wednesday.

Owl Creek Landing opens with suspended forest walkway, lookout tower

According to a release, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., people will be able to experience the new Nautilus Lookout Tower and canopy walks. Owl Creek Landing is located at 801 General Booth Boulevard, right behind the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Centers South Building.

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While the event is free to attend, guests are encouraged to reserve a ticket in advance using the link here.

Those in attendance will be required to fill out a photo/video release, as photographers will be onsite for marketing efforts, the release states.

For more information or to reserve a ticket, click here.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
(WJET/WFXP)  A Pennsylvania pastor has been sentenced after police found him to be in possession of hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.

On Tuesday, August 12, the McKean County District Attorneys Office announced that Daniel Merrick, a pastor in Smethport, was sentenced for possessing nearly 700 images and videos of child porn after attempting to withdraw a plea agreement.

Standoff between police, Venango Co. man ends in nearly a dozen charges for CSAM

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According to the DAs Office, Merrick was in possession of 698 images and videos of children, with 499 of those also depicting indecent contact.

Merrick claimed he was in possession of the content as part of an investigation he had undertaken for law enforcement into Ukrainian and Russian children who are victims of child pornography.

Serbian student attending Erie college charged with possessing sexually explicit material of a minor

Later, Merrick told police that he and his wife had not been intimate in years, which sparked his curiosity to look at child pornography.

The DAs Office stated that Merrick claimed he never touched a child and that it was only a fantasy.

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Merrick will serve a sentence of 46 to 92 months in state prison followed by three years of probation. He will also have to register as a sex offender.

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A house painter was seriously injured Tuesday after falling two stories from a ladder in Bergen County, authorities said.

The worker was painting a house in the 100 block of Kenilworth Road in Ridgewood when he fell, according to a spokesperson for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Paramedics took the man to St. Josephs Regional Medical Center in Paterson. His condition was not immediately available Wednesday morning.

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Photos and video from the scene show a ladder perched against the home next to a second-story window after the incident occurred.

The workers employer is C&W Painting and Carpentry of Hawthorne.

A representative of the business did not immediately respond Wednesday to a call and email seeking additional details.

The OSHA spokesperson said the agency has up to six months to complete its investigation.

Ridgewood police did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Police responded to a home in Ridgewood in Bergen County after a painter fell off a ladder on Tuesday.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com.
Police are investigating two break-ins reported within a few miles of each other and about half an hour apart in the San Fernando Valley overnight.

A resident in the 17600 block of Murphy Lane in Northridge reported a burglary around 10:20 p.m. Tuesday. The resident and a child were home at the time, but the suspect fled when he saw them, a Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson told KTLA.

Los Angeles police officers responding to the call found a smashed window but did not locate the suspect, described as a 6-foot-tall man wearing a black mask, gray hoodie and black sweat pants.

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A woman who lives nearby said that the home had been targeted before and thinks the intruders are coming from outside the neighborhood.

No one was injured in the incident, the spokesperson said. It was unclear if anything was taken.

Police investigate a break-in reported in Northridge on Aug. 12, 2025. (KNN News)

About 30 minutes earlier, another break-in occurred on the 9000 block of Vanalden Avenue.

At least one suspect broke a glass door and made entry while the family was inside, police said.

The family heard but did not see the suspect, or suspects, who apparently fled when they heard the people in the home.

The spokesperson said it was unclear if anything was taken from the home. It was also not known if the two home invasions were connected.

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The calls come amid a series of break-ins across the San Fernando Valley that have drawn the attention of law enforcement.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said during an interview on KTLA last week that burglars are becoming more sophisticated, with groups conducting pre-incident surveillance by placing cameras near homes and tracking residents schedules to determine when properties are empty.

Thats a problem we see throughout Southern California, were working with the task force that includes our partners at the Sheriffs Department and other agencies in the region to be able to share intelligence  and weve had some good luck taking people into custody, McDonnell said.

While some arrests have been made, McDonnell urged residents to stay vigilant and take steps to protect their homes, including building relationships with neighbors, which he said may be the most important.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Palestinian-Canadian Faiza Najjar was able to leave Gaza last year, but could not bring her four adult daughters with her. She watched from a distance as food shortages in the territory worsened.

From Canada, where she lives with her six other children, Najjar pursued a months-long effort to get those she had left out of Gaza.

She finally embraced her daughters and seven grandchildren when they arrived at Toronto's airport last month.

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But when clips of the emotional reunion were posted on social media, pro-Israeli accounts mocked her physical appearance saying it disproved claims of starvation in Gaza.

"As a mother it just destroyed me," Najjar, 50, told AFP.

Najjar did not claim that she went hungry while in Gaza.

But as recently as this past weekend a post viewed more than 300,000 times across multiple platforms ridiculed her, erroneously implying she had just left Gaza.

"Did you see what that woman looked like?" the poster said, pointing out Najjar does not look undernourished.

United Nations agencies have warned that famine was unfolding in Gaza, with Israel severely restricting the entry of aid. Images of sick and emaciated Palestinian children have drawn international outrage.

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The allegation has been denied by Israel. "There is no starvation in Gaza," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last month.

The ridicule Najjar faced is part of a broader trend.

Israeli anchors on the country's right-wing Channel 14 -- sometimes described as the Hebrew Fox News -- have laughed at "obese" mothers, alleging they steal their children's food.

For Najjar, the fact that her family's reunion got caught up in a misinformation campaign was devastating.

"After all the suffering, and losing everything, and nearly dying, some people still had the heart to mock them," she said, referring to her family.

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"My daughters lived there and their children went to sleep hungry...with bombs outside their tents," Najjar said.

Pro-Israeli commentators online also focused on her grandchildrens apparently healthy appearance.

Najjar told AFP they received medical treatment, including renourishment, at a hospital in Jordan before flying to Canada.

- Deflecting attention -

Mert Can Bayar, a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for an Informed Public at the University of Washington, said the posts targeting Najjar are "just one little piece" of a misleading online narrative.

Toronto's Mayor Olivia Chow removed a video she had posted on Instagram in which she welcomed arriving Palestinians because of abusive comments directed at the family.

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Comments on Chow's video also cited the family's physical appearance to broadly dismiss claims of starvation in Gaza.

X's chatbot Grok also misidentified a 2025 AFP photo of an emaciated child in Gaza, incorrectly saying it was taken in Yemen seven years ago, fuelling further claims that reports of starvation in Gaza have been fabricated.

Valerie Wirtschafter, a fellow at the Brookings Institution think-tank, said the claims were reminiscent of falsehoods that emerged weeks into the war alleging Palestinians had posed as so-called crisis actors and staged their injuries.

Wirtschafter said the hoax narrative "deflects from the real humanitarian harms that are happening right now."

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- 'Denial' -

Israel's offensive has killed at least 61,430 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry, figures the United Nations deems reliable.

Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, which triggered the war, resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Forty-nine of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas are still held in Gaza, including 27 the Israeli military says are dead.

When Najjar left Gaza last year, her daughters -- all in their 20s -- did not have Canadian citizenship.

With the family separated, she lived with crippling fear at the prospect of receiving word that they had been killed.

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While her daughters now have citizenship and are in Canada with their children, her sons-in-law remain in Gaza, where the UN's Integrated Food Security Phase Classification says "widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths."

"I just want the world to know the crisis is real," Najjar told AFP. "Denial is deadly."

gr/bs/bgs
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB)  Its the start of a new school year, and potentially a new era for safety in Panama City school zones.

On Tuesday morning, Panama City commissioners heard the second reading of speed detection systems in school zones.

While commissioners approved the ordinance, it does not mean the cameras are a done deal. They may not even award the project to Redspeed, the company that conducted the traffic study in the citys 11 school zones.

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However, it does allow them to move forward in the planning process and create a contract.

One of the most frequent complaints we get as commissioners is definitely speeding. And when it comes to a school zone where parents are dropping off or their kids are walking around, I have three schools in the district that I represent. And so, yes, and theyre some of the highest violations for speeding. So, you know, finding solutions, Panama City Commissioner Josh Street said.

The goal is safety for students, but also revenue for the city. They would receive $60 of the $100 tickets.

Officials are required to put that money back towards other school zone safety features, like enhancing crosswalks and adding sidewalks. The rest of the money is divided among Bay District Schools, school crossing guards, and other entities.

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All of the commissioners voiced their expectations of the contract with a potential vendor, including making the first offense a warning.

Commissioner Brian Grainger was the only dissenting vote.

I believe that thats going to cause further distrust with the community, Grainger said.

Although the automated tickets would be reviewed by law enforcement before they are issued, he still has concerns.

Sometimes the lights will flash during days that the schools not in session. There was one particular year, the lights were flashing well, a month after school had let out. Do people get tickets during those times? Do they not? What do we do with people who get a ticket that they shouldnt have gotten? And what recourse do they have now? Grainger said.

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Grainger also voiced concerns about potential contractual obligations.

If we implement this and then six months into it, there is a huge public outcry, well, now we are looking at having to pay for the equipment or keeping it for three years [for example], Grainger added.

Still, city officials say they hope to have them implemented on the first school day in January. As it stands right now, there will be a 30-day warning period for the entire city before the cameras go into effect.

Officials also addressed residents concerns about the cameras being license plate readers or LPRs. They say theres already about 80 license plate readers in the city.

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The contract will be brought back to the commission for approval.

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NewsVoir Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 13: Saifco Cements Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of JK Cement Ltd - one of the leading cement companies of India, today announced the launch of JK Super Cement brand in Kashmir, marking a significant milestone in the journey ahead. This move signals the operational rollout of JK Cement's recent acquisition in the region and aligns with its broader ambition to support infrastructure and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir. JK Super Cement, the company's flagship grey cement brand known for its superior strength and durability, will now be manufactured and made available across key districts of Kashmir, to improve the availability for local infrastructure projects and consumers. Speaking on the occasion Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd said "JK Super Cement's entry into the Kashmir market is a natural extension of our long-term strategy in the North. With the region witnessing a surge in public infrastructure projects and housing development, local production allows us to serve this demand efficiently. Further, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd, added. "More importantly, it allows us to translate our vision of sustainable and inclusive growth into tangible action. By investing in local manufacturing capabilities, building skills, and creating employment opportunities, we're ensuring that the benefits of this launch extend well beyond cement supply. This is about strengthening the local economy, empowering communities, and building the kind of self-reliant ecosystem that will support Kashmir's growth for decades to come." Saifco Cements will begin full-scale distribution in key districts including Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipore, Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian & Pulwama of Kashmir. With plans for deeper market penetration through a strong channel partner network and direct engagement with builders, contractors, and public sector stakeholders, the on-ground team has also been ramped up to provide technical support, quality assurance, and training to local builders and contractors to ensure smooth adoption. By producing and distributing locally, the company is creating new employment opportunities across the value chain. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Suhail Manzoor Guna, Director, Saifco Cements Pvt. Ltd said, "This is a proud moment for us. Launching JK Super Cement brand in Kashmir is not just a business move--it's a step towards demonstrating our commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant Jammu & Kashmir." Further, Mr. Dawood Altaf Guna, Director, Saifco Cements Pvt Ltd, added, "We are committed to supplying top-quality cement to support the region's growing construction and infrastructure needs while also generating meaningful employment and contributing to local economic development." Aligned with the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision of the Government, JK Cement's investment in local manufacturing reflects its deep commitment to building self-reliant infrastructure capabilities. The launch of JK Super Cement in Kashmir builds on JK Cement's ongoing efforts to expand across India, following recent market entries in Bihar and capacity enhancements in several other states. The company now boasts of a growing presence in various markets of India, reinforcing its position as a leading force in the country's cement and construction ecosystem. JK Cement Ltd. is among India's top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement, and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India's infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. The Company's Grey Cement capacity is 25.26 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd. In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
What started as an investigation with little information about the death of a 6-year-old has ended with the boy's parents charged with criminal homicide.

Cyprien Argueta Romero was taken to Southern Hills Medical Center Aug. 8 after suffering a gunshot wound. Medical staff pronounced the boy dead there, Metro Nashville Police said in a statement Aug. 12.

Cyprien's parents told police he was with them at a home in the Paragon Mills area in South Nashville while they did some yard work. The boy was playing with his brother, the parents said, when they were alerted to Cyprien's injury.

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"The parents have lied to detectives and have been uncooperative during this investigation," police said.

The parents, 37-year-old Fredy Martinez and 28-year-old Karen Argueta-Salgado, became sparse with additional details, police said in their statement.

"Conflicting information over the weekend indicated that the shooting may have occurred out of county," police said in their initial statement. "Detectives are taking a number of investigative steps to flesh out what exactly occurred. At this juncture, there is no indication of involvement by unrelated parties."

Police impounded the Ford Explorer used to take Cyprien to the hospital, but only after his mother disappeared with the vehicle for about an hour after taking her son for help.

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"Detectives this afternoon were able to use GPS technology associated with the parents vehicle to overcome their deception as to where the shooting occurred," police said in a late night statement Aug. 12. "While they initially said it happened in a yard in the Paragon Mills area, it actually took place inside a motel room on Metroplex Drive in South Nashville."

Police searched the room and found evidence related to a shooting. Surveillance footage also placed the family at the motel on Aug. 8.

"The parents were in the parking lot when their eight-year-old son came out of their motel room to get them," police siad in the latest statement. "Martinez is then seen carrying Cyprien, who appeared to be limp, from the room to their Ford Explorer."

While searching the Explorer, police found a semi-automatic rifle style gun with a loaded magazine inside a bag in the rear floorboard, they said in their statement. The gun was reportedly stolen in Murfreesboro.

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Police also found bloody bed sheets and a plastic bag with nearly 7 grams of crystal meth inside the SUV, their statement said.

Both Argueta-Salgado and Martinez were arrested at an apartment complex on McMurray Drive Aug. 11. Initally Cyprien's mother was charged with felony meth possession and gun theft while his father was arrested on an outstanding probation violation warrant from Texas and a domestic violence assault warrant in Nashville.

Now, the couple is charged with criminal homicide, child neglect and evidence tampering, police said. They both remain jailed.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville Police: 'Uncooperative' parents charged with homicide
HOUSTON - Parents at Durham Elementary School in north Houston say abrupt, last-minute curriculum, and staffing changes by Houston ISD have left them frustrated and concerned just as the new school year begins.

Parents are concerned about quick HISD changes

According to multiple parents, the school has spent the past year developing a phased dual-language master schedule aimed at gradually transitioning math instruction into Spanish. The plan, they said, included careful staffing and preparation to ensure a smooth implementation.

However, just days before the first day of classes, Houston ISD officials reportedly made significant changes  reassigning staff and mandating the immediate rollout of Spanish-language math instruction as part of a broader district curriculum shift.

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"Its unfair for our teachers, its unfair for our students," said parent Sarah Maller. "The chaos doesnt cause success."

Another parent, Davi Garza, said the districts timing is whats most troubling.

"This is not aligning with supporting our teachers, this is not aligning with supporting our students, and this is not aligning with supporting test scores," Garza said. "We are not resisting the change at all. We are OK if we need to implement changes. What we are not OK with is implementing these changes two days before school starts."

Confusion around ratings

The changes come as Durham Elementary has also received conflicting information about its state accountability rating. Parents said they were previously told the school held a "B" rating, but a district administrator recently indicated in an email that the school was rated a "C."

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"While last school year Durham had an accountability score of 81 (B), according to the most recent results, Durham will receive a 75 (C). Im sure we both agree that a six-point and full letter grade drop is significant and unacceptable," the administrator stated. "As a result, non-NES (PUA) schools with significant declines have a reduced level of autonomy regarding the curriculum used and will implement the HISD curriculum."

At a recent press conference, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles suggested the school could be performing even lower under new accountability metrics, saying Durham is among several "special focus schools" identified after preliminary STAAR results.

"Those special focus schools will have to use the HISD curriculum, which is provided for them," Miles said. "While, yes, it may be since last week  because we provide it for them, its online already. That includes PowerPoints, lesson objectives, demonstration of learning, quizzes, answer keys, and differentiated assignments."

Miles emphasized that all materials were accessible to staff and that the shift was based on recent performance data.

What's next

Parents said a school administrator has agreed to meet with them later this week to address their concerns.

The Source

Fox 26's Sherman Desselle spoke with concerned parents from Durham Elementary and reached out to Houston Independent School District.
The Brief

A Delaware County teenager is in critical condition after an electic scooter accident occurred in Springfield last week.

The parents of 14-year-old Sincyire Robinson Mathis are speaking out as their son remained in a medically induced coma.

PHILADELPHIA - One week ago, 14-year-old Sincyire Robinson Mathis was critically injured in an e-scooter accident in Delaware County.

He was rushed to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where he remains in a medically induced coma, fighting for his life.

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The accident occurred on the evening of August 5, when the e-scooter he was riding with a friend collided with a pickup truck on North Bishop Avenue in Springfield.

The other teen riding on the scooter with Mathis suffered a broken arm.

The driver of the truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with the police investigation.

Dig deeper

Sincyire was set to start high school as a freshman in a few days, but now his future is uncertain.

He suffered a severe brain injury, a collapsed lung, facial fractures, and a broken arm.

His parents, Quinnshetta Mathis and Tyrik Robinson, are devastated but remain by his bedside, hoping for his recovery.

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"Right now, I believe he's just going to be as good as he gets right now. He's still in critical condition," said his mom.

Tyrik expressed the difficulty of seeing his son in such a state.

"It's very hard to see my son just sitting there, lying there, when my son was such full of life and joy," said his father.

Both parents describe Sincyire as a respectful, helpful, and intelligent young man.

They are sharing their story to raise awareness about the importance of wearing helmets and taking safety precautions when riding e-scooters.

"You need to wear protection because this is the end result over an accident," Tyrik emphasized.

What's next

In response to recent e-scooter accidents, there is a push in Harrisburg to pass legislation known as "Abby's Law," which would regulate scooters by setting mandatory helmet laws and age requirements.

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The law is named after Abby Gillon, who was killed in an e-scooter accident in late June.

Sincyire's parents support any measures that could save lives and prevent similar tragedies.

As they navigate this difficult time, Sincyire's parents are trying to stay positive.

Tyrik shared, "You just gotta take it little by little every day and keep praying," while Quinnshetta added, "I'm very hopeful, I pray every day all the time. I know he's gonna come out of it. It's just going to take time, gonna take a lot of time."
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  The faithful went from the pews to the courtroom Tuesday morning, seeking more time to fork over 80% of their cash on hand.

Several parishes in the Catholic Diocese met Tuesday morning at the State Supreme Court to ask Judge John Delmonte for more time before having to pay a portion of the clergy sex abuse settlement.

Parishes in Buffalo to contribute millions of dollars to sexual abuse settlement

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There is no reason for these parishes to become extinct, prosecutors said in court.

If a parish ultimately is closed, there is no need for a cash reserve, the defense argued.

Lawyers representing parishioners said their clients attend vibrant, strong and healthy parishes despite being slated to close or merge. Parishes slated to close or merge have to pay 80 percent of their unrestricted funds toward the clergy sex abuse settlement.

If in fact that were to occur, that would just about be a death deal to our corporations and their ability to function, prosecutors said.

The defense argued some of these parishes were named in the allegations and without the allocated payment from each parish, its going to be difficult to reach the $150 million dollar settlement.

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Parishioners are asking for more time to hear from the Vatican to see if their church will be closing before the pay.

We have a right to say our money needs to go here or there. Dont try to gag us and say you cant file this suit, said Mary Pruski with Save Our Buffalo Churches. We dont need the bishops permission for our trustees to say this is wrong for my parish because they are pushing so hard. This is our only option to work on this problem at this time because the folks at the Vatican are swamped with work. Were using every tool in the tool box.

The Buffalo Diocese released a statement shortly after court:

Despite the legal recourse that certain parishioners have pursued in State Supreme Court, we believe that the decision to bring together families of parishes  known as the Road to Renewal  is the surest path to defining the near- and longer-term future of Catholic ministry and impact across Western New York.

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We also remain committed to fulfilling the agreement which has been agreed to in principle by the Creditors Committee  which consists primarily of victim-survivors  in order to support their healing and to allow the Diocese to emerge from Chapter 11 status and finally move beyond this difficult and protracted episode.

Buffalo Diocese agrees to pay $150M to settle sexual abuse claims

No decision was made in court Tuesday. Delmonte said he needs more time to review each sides argument before making a decision.

Latest Local News

Sarah Minkewicz is an Emmy-nominated reporter and Buffalo native who has been a part of the News 4 team since 2019. Follow Sarah on Twitter @SarahMinkewicz and click here to see more of her work.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
A former Reform UK MP has been cleared by the parliamentary standards commissioner over an allegation he did not declare a financial interest.

James McMurdock, who now sits as the independent MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock in Essex, is director of a health and fitness firm.

The parliamentary standards commissioner did not uphold the complaint but said his unpaid directorship should now be registered in his parliamentary interests.

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McMurdock said the "malicious attack" had "failed".

Labour MP Jon Pearce had questioned whether McMurdock had breached the rules.

He is listed on Companies House as an active director at Gym Live Health and Fitness Ltd, which is registered in Hockley, Essex.

The investigation report, by standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg, noted that McMurdock had said he was advised during an induction into Parliament "that this specific interest did not need to be registered".

"Although this advice did not qualify as formal safe harbour advice, I decided it was reasonable for Mr McMurdock to have relied on the advice he had been given and therefore did not uphold the allegation," explained Mr Greenberg.

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However, Mr Greenberg said that this advice given at the induction session was "wrong".

McMurdock took up his seat following last July's general election by beating the second-placed Labour candidate by just 98 votes.

He quit Reform UK last month amid allegations over his eligibility to have claimed 70,000 in bounce-back loans during the Covid-19 pandemic.

McMurdock denied any wrongdoing and said on social media "all my business dealings had always been conducted fully within the law and in compliance with all regulations".

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Reform UK said it would launch an investigation.

In his latest statement, McMurdock said: "I will continue, undeterred, as I have since the day of my election, to dedicate my energies to being the best parliamentary representative I can be for my constituents."

He also said the complaint to the standards commissioner had been made "without substance, designed to damage my reputation".

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

More on this story

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By about 5 p.m. Aug. 12, only one side of the Delaware General Assembly had seen movement on several bills in the special session.

Lawmakers were brought back to Dover for a summertime session in the wake of new tax bills following the first statewide property reassessment in decades.

After caucus meetings and some ceremony, the House of Representatives still awaits momentum on one of three key fixtures of legislation. Meanwhile, four bills have cleared the full floor in the Senate.

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This session was intended for stop-gap fixes and immediate relief, according to Democrat leadership, while gearing up for more work when regular session returns in 2026.

The road to get there just may go late into the evening.

How we got here: Delaware lawmakers lay out 3 key areas for reform on taxes, reassessment fallout

Which Senate bills passed already?

A key resolution seeking an immediate review of the reassessment process by the General Assembly, alongside local and school district leaders passed the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend, the resolutions primary sponsor, argued this resolution illustrates where we need to head. It does not spell out a due date for review or recommendations.

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This review would examine:

How outside contractors determined fair market value and if consistent standards were used across all three counties.

What approaches were used by contractors to determine the value of residential and nonresidential properties.

The extent to which counties provided direction or oversight to said contractors.

The momentum of the reassessment appeals process and related resources designed to resolve them.

The forms of communication used to inform residents on both the timing and process of reassessments from the counties and rate determinations from the counties and school districts.

Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend listens to a speaker during the last day of legislative session on June 30, 2025.

While not an exhaustive list of what needs to be done, Townsend said this will help give residents  particularly in New Castle County  a better sense of how Delaware got here.

Because, as Townsend puts it: "Delawareans deserve answers.

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Other lawmakers, like Sen. Dave Lawson and Sen. Stephanie Hansen, added that remaining Delaware counties and municipalities also needed to be included.

Lawson called for the chamber to pass state laws, not county laws.

More: How Delaware's most powerful political leaders fared after historic tax reassessment

The resolution passed with 19 lawmakers approving and two absent, garnering bipartisan support.

Lawmakers also passed two bills mirroring efforts to allow localities and schools to split tax rates.

The first, backed by Sen. Spiros Mantzavinos, would codify long-established common law recognizing the power of Delaware counties and cities to individually tax different classes of property if the classification is reasonable and the rates are consistent.

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Senate Minority Leader Gerald Hocker  the lone nay vote  argued such a move could be detrimental to certain classifications, such as affordable rental space.

Senate Minority Leader Gerald Hocker listens to a speaker during the last day of legislative session on June 30, 2025.

The bill ultimately passed with 18 yea votes, one against and two absent.

The other bill, sponsored by Senate Minority Whip Brian Pettyjohn, clarifies that any municipality in the First State has the authority to implement such split rates for residential and non-residential properties.

The bill passed with the same sweeping margin as the resolution.

The last piece of Senate legislation, a subsitute bill sponsored by Sen. Kyra Hoffner, would require New Castle County to submit detailed reports every quarter on appeals and related data on property parcels, revenue collected for school districts and data related to assessment appeals.

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Related: Sussex County issues property tax bills as legislators convene to address concerns

The original bill required all three counties to submit these reports.

Hoffner said such examinations would deliver much-needed transparency and accountability, as well as provide a practical tool for smarter policy-making.

The bill passed with 14 Democrats in support and two absent. All five GOP lawmakers present abstained from voting.

All four bills await consideration from the House. And ultimately, a signature from Gov. Matt Meyer.

Whats on the House agenda to come?

Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton prepares to speak at special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

As of now, one main House bill has yet to be discussed.

The House has passed a bill requiring counties to present direct refunds following an assessment appeal, if overpayment to the county or school tax clocks in at more than $50.

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The chamber also passed a bill requiring each county to allow eligible residents to enter into payment plans for school taxes, without penalties or interest in the first tax year post-general reassessment.

The final piece of House legislation, which would allow school districts to split tax rates between residential and non-residential properties, is still up for debate.

(This story has been updated to add new information and a photo gallery.)

Olivia Montes covers state government and community impact for Delaware Online/The News Journal. If you have a tip or a story idea, reach out to her at omontes@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware Senate approves 'immediate review' of reassessment process
Passenger Dragged Off Plane by Authorities After Allegedly Fighting with Cabin Crew Over Turning Off Her Cellphone





NEED TO KNOW

A passenger got into a physical dispute over turning off her cellphone, an airline claims, leading her to be dragged of the plane by authorities

Ibom Air issued a statement about the incident, alleging that Ms. Comfort Emmanson "posed a serious threat to the safety" of its crew, passengers and aircraft

The airline also said the woman has been banned from flying with the company, citing its "zero-tolerance policy"





A passenger was dragged off a plane in Nigeria after allegedly refusing to switch off her cellphone.

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The incident occurred on Sunday, Aug. 10 on an Ibom Air aircraft that was traveling from the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, the airline confirmed in a statement shared on Facebook.

The airline identified the passenger as Ms. Comfort Emmanson, claiming that her "conduct posed a serious threat to the safety" of crew, passengers and the aircraft.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

The airline explained that she had reportedly been "instructed in line with standard aviation safety procedures, to switch off" her cellphone, adding that the pilot-in-command also made an announcement.

Viral Press Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025

Another passenger sitting next to Emmanson then allegedly took her phone and switched it off, prompting "a verbal tirade" from her, the airline said, adding that "the situation was eventually calmed, and the flight departed as scheduled."

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After the plane arrived in Lagos, Emmanson reportedly "waited for all other passengers to disembark and then proceeded to confront" the crew member who had instructed her to turn off her phone, alleging that she tore off the flight attendant's wig, removed her glasses and "slapped her several times."

Viral Press Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025

The moment was captured on camera, per a video shared by the Associated Press, with the clip showing the passenger being dragged down the aircraft's steps.

Ibom Air alleged in the statement that Emmanson had also "attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged and grounded the aircraft."

The pilot-in-command ended up alerting security, and the passenger was "restrained and removed from the aircraft by force," the airline continued adding that Emmanson was then taken into custody by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security before being handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

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Emmanson will no longer be permitted to fly with the airline, the airline noted in its statement, adding that the company has a "zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unruly or violent conduct that threatens the safety of passengers, crew or equipment."

"Safety remains our highest priority. We urge all passengers to comply with crew instructions at all times for the safety, security and comfort of everyone on board," the airline concluded.

Viral Press Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 Authorities removing a passenger from an Ibom Air flight on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025

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 the AP, Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), addressed the incident by saying, "When cabin crew ask you to turn off your phone before takeoff or landing, simply comply." He added, "I can't understand why simple routine issues would lead to incidents like this. Passengers need to understand they have responsibilities, not just rights."

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However, in a statement posted to X, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemned the airline's actions, demanding that "Ibom Air immediately withdraw the lifetime ban, issue a public apology to Ms. Emmanson, and cooperate fully with an impartial investigation into this incident."

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Ibom Air, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority's Achimugu and the Nigerian Bar Association didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information.



Read the original article on People
HOBOKEN, N.J. (PIX11)  PATH trains to New York City were experiencing significant delays on Wednesday due to a switch problem, according to Port Authority.

The disruption affected trains coming from Hoboken to either the World Trade Center or 33rd Street.

More Transit News

NJ Transit cross-honored PATH tickets at Newark, Hoboken and Penn Station. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail also cross-honored PATH tickets at Hoboken, Newport and Exchange Place.

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Delays and suspensions have affected PATH service in the past week. A track fire at Newport station shuttered service during the early morning commute on Aug. 4.

Then, on Aug. 6, a signal issue at 33rd Street also caused PATH train service to be suspended.

Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  On Tuesday, Attorney General Ken Paxton said he filed a lawsuit against Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company headquartered in Indiana.

According to the AGs office, Eli Lilly was accused of bribing and illegally inducing medical providers to prescribe its most profitable drugs.

KXAN reached out to Eli Lilly for a statement. A spokesperson with the company provided the following.

Multiple courts and the federal government have rejected claims by this same corporate relator against Lilly as meritless, the spokesperson said.

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In a prior case, Eli Lilly claimed the government determined the allegations lacked sufficient factual and legal support.

We intend to vigorously defend against these allegations, the spokesperson said.

The AGs office said Eli Lilly offered illegal incentives to medical providers in Texas in an attempt to enhance profits. The listed incentives included free nurses and reimbursement support services.

These inducements were designed to steer providers toward prescribing Eli Lillys drugs, the AGs office said. In many cases, these prescriptions were covered by Medicaid, resulting in millions of dollars in claims to Texas Medicaid that were tainted by Eli Lillys illegal marketing and quid pro quo arrangements, in violation of the Texas Health Care Program Fraud Prevention Act.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is pressing lawmakers to restore his power to independently prosecute election fraud, claiming a 2021 court ruling let hundreds of alleged cases collapse.

In an interview with The Epoch Times, shared by the account Wallstreet Apes on X, Paxton said his office had over 900 cases going, 600 counts of fraud and another 392ish investigations when the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals struck down a decades-old statute that allowed the attorney general to bring such prosecutions.

All dismissed, Paxton said in the clip. So everybody got away with voter fraud. Everybody we know was committing voter fraud The court of criminal appeals said theyre dismissed. They get to commit all the voter fraud they want now and in the future.

Absolutely INSANE  Texas AG Ken Paxton brought 900 cases of voter fraud A Texas Court saw he was prosecuting these voter fraud cases, so they struck down the statute that allowed the Attorney General of Texas to prosecute voter fraud ALL CASES WERE DISMISSED, Everybody got pic.twitter.com/81yAfiS25s  Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) August 13, 2025

The comments come as Republican lawmakers push to regrant Paxton the authority the court took away, after ruling in 2021 that the attorney general could not prosecute election crimes without a request from local prosecutors. Paxton has argued that district attorneys in the states largest counties, many of them Democrats, are rogue and unwilling to bring such cases.

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House Joint Resolution 1 and House Bill 11, authored by Republican Rep. Matt Shaheen of Plano, along with a Senate companion bill, would amend the law to restore that power. It is time to return this power that was stripped in a court decision, Shaheen reportedly said in a statement.

The measures are a priority for Gov. Greg Abbott in the current special session. It is unclear what the future of this legislation will be, given the special sessions impending end on August 19 and the lack of quorum in the House due to Texas Democrats abandoning their posts and fleeing the state, as previously covered by The Dallas Express.

Under current law, Paxtons office can only step in when invited by local prosecutors. That limitation followed a case in which his office prosecuted a Southeast Texas sheriff for alleged voter fraud after the 2016 election, despite the local district attorney declining to pursue charges. The sheriff challenged Paxtons authority, and the court sided with him.

Paxton and his allies contend that the work is necessary to protect the states elections. In a June 17, 2025, press release, his office announced it was investigating 33 potential noncitizens for allegedly voting in the 2024 general election, after referrals from Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson.

Noncitizens must not be allowed to influence American elections, and I will use the full weight of my office to investigate all voter fraud, Paxton stated in the press release.
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], August 13: Youth-powered solutions took center stage at the BRICS CCI Youth Leadership Dialogue 2.0, hosted by the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BRICS CCI) from August 4 to 12, 2025. Organized under the esteemed patronage of Mr. Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman of BRICS CCI, President of the BRICS CCI Young Leaders Vertical, and grandson of former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, the seven-day program called for harnessing the ideas, energy and skills of India's youth to tackle the nation's development priorities. During the summit, engagement with leaders from politics, diplomacy, governance, entrepreneurship and business equipped participants with insights to shape their future global leadership roles. Aligned with International Youth Day celebrations, BRICS CCI Young Leaders Dialogue 2.0 further built on the success of its inaugural edition and reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young Indians to drive national growth and global leadership. With India poised to have one of the world's largest working-age populations over the next two decades, the Dialogue emphasized the need to actively involve young leaders in shaping policy, governance and societal transformation. The summit brought together a carefully selected group of young participants from across the country, providing them with skills, insights and networks to lead with impact. Mr. Shastri highlighted the event's transformative purpose, stating, "Empowering young leaders is not just about imparting knowledge, it is about equipping them with the confidence and networks to shape the global narrative." The summit witnessed the participation of the BRICS CCI Core Committee, including Mr. Harvansh Chawla, Chairman; Dr. BBL Madhukar, Co-Chairman & Director General; Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, Vice Chairman and Mr. Ruhail Ranjan, Treasurer, BRICS CCI. Over the course of seven days, participants engaged with a distinguished lineup of speakers and influencers. Among the notable figures were Lt. Gen D.V. Kalra (Retd.), Air Vice Marshal Rajeev Sharma (Retd.), and Rear Admiral A.S. Sethi (Retd.), who shared insights on leadership, discipline, and technological challenges. The diplomatic segment featured Mr. Mikhail Antsiferov, Third Secretary, Russian Embassy; Ms. Leticia Marranghello, Second Secretary, Political Section, Embassy of Brazil; Mr. Peter Mahafha, First Secretary, Political, South African High Commission; Amb. Amarendra Khatua, former High Commissioner of India to Argentina; Mr. Zhang Yefei, First Secretary, Embassy of the People's Republic of China, alongside senior civil servants IPS Parvez Hayat, IPS Shashank Jaiswal, and IRS Sukhad Chaturvedi. The entrepreneurial and corporate leadership sessions included Mr. Bibin Babu, Co-Founder of Paycio; Mr. Prann Sharma, President of Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Pvt Ltd and BRICS CCI Governing Body Member; Mr. Jitendra Sharma, CEO of Hairoriginals; Mr. Vikas Dua, HR Head India, Weber Shandwick; Mr. Ankit Jhamb, Chief Learning Officer, Grant Thornton Bharat LLP; Mr. Anuj Gautam, Founder of Label-AG among others. The final day was marked by keynote addresses from Shri Rajesh Nagar, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Deptt. (Independent charge) and Minister of State for Printing & Stationery Deptt. ( Independent Charge), Government of Haryana; Dr. Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi, Special Invitee to the National Executive of the BJP and Former Cabinet Minister of Punjab; Dr. Madhukar Gupta, Commissioner, State Election Commission, Rajasthan; Dr. Dnyaneshwar Manohar Mulay, Former Member, National Human Rights Commission; Mr. K.J. Alphons, IAS (Retd.), Former Union Minister for Tourism, India, and Former MLA; Air Marshal Ravi Kapoor (Retd.), Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command; Mr. Sushil Sharma, CEO and MD, Marwari Catalyst; Mr. Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India and Mr. Nishant Sama, Co-Convener, BRICS CCI Young Leaders. Also featured was a keynote session by Mr. He Meng, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the People's Republic of China. The Dialogue further saw active participation from diplomatic representatives of Bolivia, Russia, Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Egypt, and Iran, among others. All participants were awarded globally recognized merit certificates in recognition of their active involvement and commitment to global leadership. By engaging with prominent figures from politics, diplomacy, governance, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership, participants gained invaluable knowledge and perspectives to shape their future roles in global leadership. The summit successfully cultivated a dynamic and diverse cohort of future leaders prepared to drive positive change in India and across the world. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Someone asked me about laws relating to cemeteries. It turns out that there are six categories of cemeteries in New York totaling over 5,700: Not-for-profit corporations, religious, municipal, family, private and national cemeteries.

The state government regulates only those that are incorporated under the not-for-profit law. For those, there is a Cemetery Board and a Division of Cemeteries, both under the New York Department of State.

They have a good FAQ page on their website: https://dos.ny.gov/cemetery-frequently-asked-questions.

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The NY State Association of Cemeteries has one as well: https://nysac.com/faqs/

The Cemetery Board is composed of three members: the NY Attorney General, Commissioner of Health and Secretary of State. They set the standards for the establishment, maintenance and preservation of the not-for-profit burial grounds in the state.

The designated members of those departments meet monthly to address matters regarding the 1,700 cemeteries they regulate.

A Permanent Maintenance Fund is built in for each not-for-profit cemetery. The law requires that 10% of every lot sale and $35 per burial be deposited in this fund, and the interest from the fund is used for cemetery maintenance. Also, the N.Y. State Cemetery Board controls a Vandalism, Abandonment and Monument Repair or Removal Fund. Regulated cemeteries can apply to the Board for grants to make needed repairs or removals of dangerous monuments.

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In many cemeteries, maintenance of the grounds is done by volunteers. Some cemeteries are so old that their care has stopped.

The State Cemetery Board can make a finding that a cemetery is abandoned, when there is no longer a board for that cemetery and there are insufficient funds for even basic maintenance.

The effect of the abandonment designation is that the town where it is located must mow and maintain the property.

When you buy a cemetery lot, you own the right of burial not the land itself.

The lot ownership is passed on to your descendants. More on this can be found at the Department of State website and in the N.Y. General Municipal and Religious Corporations Laws.

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We have options for the disposition of our remains.

The usual choices are burial or cremation, and there are other arrangements, too. If you have a strong preference, it is wise to write out your wishes, so there is no question. This can be done in your will, and there is a state Department of Health Form that is not required, but can be helpful. Visit https://www.health.ny.gov/forms/doh-5211.pdf

Burying a loved-one on your own property  what is sometimes called a backyard burial  is legal, so long as you comply with the State Sanitary Codes rules for required distances between cemeteries and water sources. It is possible there are relevant local laws, so it is best to check with your town.

A Powerpoint presentation online from the NY Department of State at https://dos.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2025/07/basic-cemetery-info-powerpoint-25.07.11.pdf recommends precautions to take if you have a private cemetery on your land. It is best to protect it in your deed, so future owners must preserve it as a cemetery, and provide an endowment to pay for maintenance.

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There is no law against scattering cremated remains, so long as you get the permission of the property owner. If the desired location is a state park or waterway, the regional office is the place to start.

New York allows what are referred to as natural or green burials. With these, there is no embalming and no metal casket or concrete vault.

The purpose is to have decomposition at a natural pace, with little environmental impact. Often natural burials take place in woodland settings, such as the Spirit Sanctuary in Essex. For more information, there is a Green Burial Council (https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/) which has certified green standards.

Another option besides traditional burials, cremation and natural burials is to have the body composted through a natural organic reduction process. This was made legal in New York in 2023. NY Public Health Law 4201; https://www.thecity.nyc/2023/05/17/human-composting-legal-burial-alternative/

A company called Recompose has an interesting website explaining how their process works. https://recompose.life/human-composting/how-it-works/
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  The Pennsylvania Senate passed its own version of the state budget as gridlock enters its seventh week.

Voting entirely along party lines, Republicans passed a $47.7 billion spending plan to cover expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and public schools through June 30, 2026.

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This Week in Pennsylvania

It comes as the Senate reconvened for the first time since June, and more than six weeks since a budget was due on Gov. Josh Shapiros desk.

I do think we need to do something that will address schools, nursing homes, social services, hospitals, said State Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland). We have to do something, and just because we, meaning the House and the Senate, cant come to an agreement does not mean that those other very vital entities should suffer. We shouldnt let that happen, and the Democrats should not let that happen and the governor should not let that happen.

House Democrats passed a $50.6 billion budget on July 14, which the Senate has not considered for a vote. Democrats in the chamber also passed a mass transit bailout bill and sounded the alarm if the Senate didnt join them.

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Budget blame game continues between Pa. House, Senate as public transit cuts loom

They havent. Instead, Senate Republicans passed legislation to invest in transportation infrastructure and mass transit using the Public Transportation Trust Fund. Democrats said those funds are already earmarked for system upgrades and are not a sustainable solution.

Any of the Senates bills would need the consensus of the House, and vice versa, before making it to Shapiros desk.

Neither measure is going to pass the House, and neither measure will the governor support, said Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny), Senate minority leader. So, were still here today. They went through political theater to appease their base, but now we need to move forward with real conversation and real discussion about what needs to be done to address both those matters.

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The Senate is back in recess and will reconvene on Sept. 8. The House will reconvene on Sept. 22 with a non-voting session. Both would return to Harrisburg to vote on a budget if an agreement is reached.

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The Trump administration, which on Monday deployed the D.C. National Guard to address crime in the nation's capital, is reportedly gearing up to deploy more troops in American cities.

Pentagon plans leaked to The Washington Post detail plans by the Trump administration, time-stamped in late July and early August, for a "Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force" of 600-troop National Guard units. These National Guard units, two 300-troop groups stationed at bases in Alabama and Arizona, would be ready to deploy within an hour to U.S. cities "facing protests or other unrest."

The quick-reaction teams would be on task for 90 days "to limit burnout," according to the Post. The plan involves rotating Army and Air Force National Guard units from several states, including Maryland, New Mexico, Nebraska, and Tennessee.

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Cost projections indicate that the mission could amount to "hundreds of millions of dollars." However, the earliest this program could be funded through the Pentagon's budget is FY 2027. The Post's report also mentions that it is currently uncertain whether the proposal has been presented to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The National Guard Bureau referred Reason to the Defense Department for comment.

In response to Reason, a Defense Department official stated, "The Department of Defense is a planning organization and routinely reviews how the department would respond to a variety of contingencies across the globe. We will not discuss these plans through leaked documents, pre-decisional or otherwise."

Titles 10 and 32 of the U.S. Code give the president the authority to mobilize National Guard troops for federal missions. Title 10 allows forces to support law enforcement without performing arrests or investigations. Under Title 32, the state or territory governor retains control of the National Guard; however, their duties are federally funded and regulated, which provides guardsmen more latitude in law enforcement missions.

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The proposal leaked to the Post would allow the president to mobilize the National Guard under Title 32 in states experiencing civil unrest, but acknowledges "the potential for political friction should that state's governor refuse to work with the Pentagon."

Laura Dickinson, law professor at George Washington University Law School, tells Reason there's a "strong legal argument that they couldn't in this status be sent to a state without the consent of that state's governor." In response to the president's actions in Washington, D.C., Maryland Democratic Gov. Wes Moore has already said that he would "not authorize" National Guard forces in Maryland.

"This proposal fits into a larger pattern that we're seeing in which the administration is seeking to use the National Guard and the military to perform direct law enforcement functions or to act in support of law enforcement when there doesn't seem to be a real emergency or crisis," Dickinson adds.

The new Pentagon plan mirrors an effort by the first Trump administration to utilize the National Guard to quell political protests. Before the 2020 election, the administration had 600 Guard troops prepared in Arizona and Alabama in anticipation of political violence.

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"This is Donald Trump's attempt to create his own de facto Praetorian Guard," Patrick Eddington, senior fellow at the Cato Institute, tells Reason.

"It's worth reflecting that such actions by the British Crown are what started the American Revolution," he adds. "These acts by the Trump regime have nothing to do with crime and everything to do with armed, coercive political intimidation and repression."

The state of California is currently suing the Trump administration for deploying 700 Marines and 4,000 of the state's National Guard to the city of Los Angeles amid protests over immigration raids taking place in the city in June.

The Trump administration has openly and unconventionally deployed federal law enforcement and the military to achieve its objectives. While it's unclear if or when this will happen, the Pentagon's plan, if implemented, would be yet another encroachment on federalism from the Trump administration.

The post Pentagon Draws Up Plans To Send Troops to American Cities appeared first on Reason.com.
The Department of Homeland Securitys latest recruitment video for ICE has everything: A Jay-Z soundtrack, scenes of ICE agents breaking into homes looking for cartel members that look straight out of a movie, and a font flashed on screen that some say looks uncomfortably familiar.

The type  reading Save America and join.ice.gov  looks a little Nazi-like, many on social media noted when it was posted earlier this week. The video was taken down Tuesday due to copyright infringement of the aforementioned Jay-Z song, but you can still find reposts of it around the internet.

A split screen of "Save America" in the font and an image from the video, showing ICE agents storming a building. DHS

Do experts  graphic designers and historians who study Nazi Germany propaganda  see the resemblance in font selection? Some do. Khara Cloutier, a typography instructor in the extended studies program at CalArts in Santa Clarita, California, thinks the comparison is absolutely relevant.

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Its a Blackletter script, and a variety known as Fraktur was used on the cover of Adolf Hitlers Mein Kampf, and early Nazi propaganda, she said.

It was a popular German national script for centuries, but eventually it fell out of favor with the Third Reich. The Nazis banned the use of the font in 1941, dismissing the type for its Jewish influence and for being too old-world.

Jewish writers and printers had tainted the type, the Nazi regime claimed, and the nation needed something more modern and standardized that would allow people in occupied Europe to read their propaganda, according to Jonathan Wiesen, professor of history and author of several books on the Third Reich and its legacy, most recently Nazi Germany: Society, Culture, and Politics.

Related: Sophie Turner Was Hit With This 1 'Unfortunate' Dig Online. And Sadly, It's Quite Common.

So is it the Nazi font? Technically, no, given that the Blackletter font  and this seems to be a tweaked variation of it  was used for centuries in Europe, he told HuffPost.

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If you were to ask the people who put together the ICE recruitment video, they would probably offer some plausible deniability  this font was used by everyone for centuries... was even linked to Jews, its not technically the Fraktur, or German font, Wiesen said.

But its fair to assume that in visual media and marketing, there are almost no accidents, especially with the choice of such a striking and controversial font, he said.

On Bluesky, Philip Cohen, a sociologist and demographer, was among those who noted the similarities between the font used in the DHS clip and fonts used by Hitler and the Nazi regime. @philipncohen.com/Bluesky

While the font is tied to Nazi Germany  and is a clear favorite among far-right hate groups in Europe, Wiesen notes (look at the font on the website of Stormfront, a neo-Nazi group)  we see versions of it everywhere, notably mastheads of The New York Times, The Washington Post and other newspapers.

With the font, they could also argue that it evokes heritage and an older, safer time  in keeping with ICEs mandate to keep America safe, Wiesen said. Its even sometimes called an Old English font.

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Elon Musk, whos supported far-right-wing political movements, policies and administrations in at least 18 countries, is a fan of the font, too. He emblazoned hisDark MAGA hatwith a rather gaudy version of the font while campaigning for President Donald Trump.

Related: Viral CNN Segment Highlights Disturbing Christian Movement. Bible Scholars Have Thoughts.

With the Jay-Z music in the background, the DHS social media team could also argue that they were going for hard or tough guy imagery, said Steven Heller, a design critic and author of Iron Fists: Branding the Totalitarian State.

Its probably more gangsta than Nazi, Heller told HuffPost. But they are clearly using the wrong typeface for their message. No police department or Federal police agency is using Old English. I think its some typographic ignorant trying to do pastiche but has no idea what to do.

The New York Times newspaper uses a similar font in its masthead. Bloomberg via Getty Images

Ironically, given that the ICE raids have largely impacted Latino communities, Old English fonts are incredibly popular among Mexicans, both in the U.S. and Mexico, said Paul Shaw, a design historian and type designer. We see it in brand logos and storefront signs, ornate tattoo designs and graffiti.

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Its definitely possible that type-illiterate people in the Trump administration are unaware of this Mexican connection, Shaw told HuffPost.

Heres why the font, and the military cosplay in the clip, are worth talking about.

Why does any of this matter? As digital designer Ben Hersh wrote in a 2017 article for Wired titled How Fonts Are Fueling the Culture Wars, typography is a weightier thing than we realize.

Related: The White House Posted A Shockingly Cruel ASMR Video. ASMR Creators Are Pissed.

Typography can silently influence: It can signify dangerous ideas, normalize dictatorships, and sever broken nations, he wrote. It can do this as powerfully as the words it depicts.

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And its not too much of a leap to consider this post a racial dog whistle, given the Trump administrations tendency to share similarly questionable racially charged content on social media: A day after posting this ICE agent recruitment post, the DHS shared another on X with the caption, Which way, American man?  a quote that seems to reference Which Way Western Man? a 1978 book by the avowed white supremacist William Gayley Simpson, who argued Hitler was right and led the National Alliance, an American neo-Nazi organization.

As the U.S. inches closer to authoritarianism under President Trump, all of this  the font, the images, the quotes  is unnerving, critics say.

Using the Nazi-esque font is bad, but [the images are] also bad, if not worse, wrote Princeton University history professor Nate Ledbetter on Bluesky.

This is military cosplay, he wrote. Look at how heavily they are kitted out. The Army didnt give me all this crap when it sent me to AFGHANISTAN. But theyre wearing all this to arrest dangerous hot dog stand vendors?

Stills from the DHS's ICE recruitment video show ICE agents storming homes and other buildings. DHS/X

The visuals, and arguably the font, are the aesthetics of President Trumps authoritarian fever dream; a dream were seeing brought to fruition in the widespread immigration raids and use of military force in Americas cities and detainments without probable cause (less than 10% of people taken into custody by ICE have serious criminal offenses).

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The images in the ICE ad are selling the dream to the public, said Nicholas OShaughnessy, a professor emeritus of communication at Queen Mary University of London and the author of Selling Hitler: Propaganda and the Nazi Brand.

We have to look at what the symbolism is telling us, and that symbolism is an authoritarian patriotism summoned to sustain an enormous act of  to the perpetrators  a kind of social cleansing, OShaughnessy said. Its visceral and pitiless, and we are going to see much more of it.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
This administration will preside over the largest transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich in history. Molly Jong-Fast explains why constituents at Republican town halls across the country are furious at their representatives. Although GOP lawmakers dont seem worried, Jong-Fast says they should be as new analysis from the CBO of Trumps megabill proves a historic transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich.
NASA is planning to decommission premier satellite missions that gather information on planet-warming pollution and other climate vital signs beginning as soon as October, sources inside and outside of the agency told CNN.

The destruction of the satellites  which will be abandoned and allowed to eventually burn up in a fiery descent into Earths atmosphere  marks the latest step by the Trump administration to scale back federal climate science.

President Donald Trumps budget proposal takes a hatchet to NASAs Earth science spending for fiscal year 2026, which begins in October.

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The greenhouse gas monitoring missions, known collectively as the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, are some of the many Earth science casualties in the proposal.

Other satellites and instruments on the chopping block include the long-lived Aqua satellite, which carries a high-resolution Earth imaging instrument called MODIS, that among other uses, helps detect wildfires worldwide. Also at risk are the Terra and Aura missions, each of which have climate science applications, and planned satellites that would precisely measure solar radiation, heavy precipitation and clouds.

While the Trump administration says it is looking to end the OCO and other missions to cut costs, scientists involved in the projects see an anti-climate science pattern at work.

Dave Crisp speaks during an Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 briefing in June 2014. - NASA/Bill Ingalls

Congress is still considering Trumps budget request and may reject some, or all, of the Earth science cuts, but NASA is proceeding as if the White House spending blueprint will be implemented as-written.

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David Crisp, a former NASA scientist who worked on the OCO missions and managed them until he retired in 2022, confirmed the decommissioning planning for OCO-2 and OCO-3. Other sources, including one NASA employee, also confirmed this plan, speaking on condition of anonymity because they werent approved to discuss the issue.

NASA calls a missions closeout phase  the period when the program team works out how to end it  Phase F. The Phase F state of planning for the OCO missions was first reported by NPR.

In response to questions from CNN, a NASA spokesperson pointed to Trumps budget request. It would not be appropriate for us to comment at this time as the budget process is still happening. Should the budget pass as proposed  it still needs to make its way through Congress  this will be implemented upon the start of the next fiscal year.

An expensive decision with global impact

A United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket launches with the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 satellite onboard in July 2014. - NASA/Bill Ingalls

Together, the OCO-2, a free-flying satellite, and OCO-3, which is mounted on the International Space Station, measure the composition of the Earths atmosphere, specifically sniffing out climate pollution.

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The OCO missions are particularly useful for tracking fossil fuel and ecosystem-related emissions, scientists told CNN. The instruments also help scientists monitor plant productivity  critical for farmers and the researchers studying forest loss.

While OCO-3 could be switched off and remain attached to the ISS, perhaps to be turned on again in the future, the decommissioning process for OCO-2 is far more complicated  and fiery. The satellite would be moved into a much lower orbit and exist there as space junk for years until it burns up in the Earths atmosphere.

The purposeful abandonment or destruction of multimillion-dollar satellites and instruments is essentially unprecedented, scientists told CNN. They are particularly baffled by the decision to destroy OCO-2, given it already has enough fuel on it to last through 2040.

The OCO missions are still functioning and are thought to have many years left of data-gathering, in addition to the fuel onboard, which has already been bought by American taxpayers. It is not business as usual to shut off working satellites without conducting a comprehensive review, sources told CNN, nor is it typical to kill functional spacecraft that can cost billions to put into space in the first place.

View of the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-3 (OCO-3) on the Japanese Experiment Module Exposed Facility of the International Space Station in June 2019. - Christina Koch/NASA

The reality is that as long as these instruments are producing high-quality data, its essentially unheard of to decommission the satellites, because keeping them going is so cheap compared to building them and launching them in the first place, Anna Michalak, a climate researcher at Carnegie Science and Stanford University who works with greenhouse gas emissions data, told CNN.

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The OCO missions are important for other countries, too, since they also use the data, Michalak said: Its not just that these are the only two NASA-funded missions. Its that these have been the most impactful missions in this space, globally, period.

Losing the OCO missions would hurt US leadership in climate science and create a multiyear gap in space-based climate pollution measurements, said Ben Poulter of Spark Climate Solutions, a nonprofit focused on climate risks and innovative fixes. Poulter was previously a NASA scientist and helped lead greenhouse gas monitoring efforts for the Biden administration.

Losing these satellites prematurely gives away the leadership to Europe and to China in terms of monitoring CO2 concentrations and emissions, Poulter said. Prematurely ending the OCO missions is consistent with the perception that the Trump administration doesnt want to do anything related to climate science and climate services, he added.

Crisp, the former NASA scientist, also told CNN that decommissioning so many Earth science missions at the same time fits a pattern.

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My guess is that they perceive these missions as missions that were designed for climate, for reinforcing climate hysteria or something, Crisp said of the Trump administration. They think these missions were designed for a regulatory reason, for example. But I want to point out NASA is not a regulatory agency.

Billionaires to the rescue?

There are at least two possibilities for saving the carbon observatory mission, though researchers are not optimistic about either one coming to fruition.

The first is Congress. Lawmakers could reject Trumps proposal and offer NASA the budget it needs to maintain US climate and Earth science status quo. Trump would also have to sign such a bill.

The second possibility is to create a public-private partnership that pays the expenses for maintaining these instruments and processing the data back on Earth. This could take the form of a philanthropic organization, a wealthy individual or perhaps a university taking over OCO-2 or OCO-3, or perhaps both, for a period of time.

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The space agency has already issued a call for partnerships for OCO-3, and it is expected to put out a similar call for operating OCO-2 at some point this week, multiple researchers who work with OCO data said.

Theres this scramble to see what can be done before any sort of decommissioning or Phase F protocols go into effect later this year, Poulter said.

However, involving the private sector in operating OCO or other Earth-observing satellites can present complications, Michalak said, as it could diminish NASAs role in providing an accurate backbone of Earth observations.

As the search for a partnership to save OCO-2 and OCO-3 begins, NASA only has less than two months to figure out how to keep the missions going.

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Perseid meteors streak towards Durdle Door in this 2025 image from photographer Josh Dury. | Credit: Josh Dury

The Perseid meteor shower peaked on Aug 1213, overcoming the glare of a waning gibbous moon to put on a spectacular show of shooting stars that delighted onlookers worldwide.

The Perseids are active every July and August as Earth barrels through the trail of dusty debris shed by the wandering comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. Our planet plowed through the densest part of the comet's trail on Aug. 12-13 , when countless cometary shards collided with Earth, burning up in spectacular fashion as they were overcome by the friction of atmospheric entry.

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In previous years, the Perseids have produced between 50 to 100 meteors per hour at their peak, with shooting stars emanating from a point of origin known as a radiant located in the constellation Perseus . Unfortunately, the 2025 Perseids happened to coincide with the appearance of a waxing gibbous moon, which bleached the sky with moonlight, blotting out all but the brightest members of the ancient meteor shower .

Thankfully, there were still plenty of bright meteors to be seen, which outshone the moon to dazzle stargazers and provide a mesmerizing target for the astronomical community, who captured the shooting stars against a backdrop of aurora and framed spectacular landscapes.

Read on to see a selection of spectacular shooting stars captured during the 2025 Perseid meteor shower.

The 2025 Perseid meteor shower in pictures

Aurora photographer Harlan Thomas struck gold, not only capturing Perseid meteors streaking across the sky but also the northern lights dancing overhead! Similar scenes played out last year when the Perseids' peak coincided with a powerful geomagnetic storm that sparked auroras over North America.

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Image 1 of 4

Meteors are visible streaking through a dark blue sky wreathed in a green aurora above a rural landscape.

Image 2 of 4

Meteors are visible streaking through a dark blue sky wreathed in a green aurora above a rural landscape.

Image 3 of 4

Meteors are visible streaking through a dark blue sky wreathed in a green aurora above a rural landscape.

Image 4 of 4

Meteors are visible streaking through a dark blue sky wreathed in a green aurora above a rural landscape.

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Photographer Josh Dury captured a breathtaking view of Perseid meteors raining down alongside the glowing band of the Milky Way towards the Durdle Door rock formation on the coast of Dorset in the UK.

"As this year's event will be flooded by light of the waning gibbous moon, this image was captured earlier in the month when the moon was at a much smaller phase," Dury told Space.com in an email. "The challenge being, the peak of the shower would be weeks away. With an integration time of 7 hours, 14 meteors were captured in this composite, tracked image utilising the image sequence."

Perseid meteors streak towards Durdle Door in this 2025 image from photographer Josh Dury. | Credit: Josh Dury

This striking Perseid was snapped by Amreet Kini during the early morning hours of Aug. 3 using a Canon R6 full-frame mirrorless camera with a Rokinon RF 14 mm lens from a rural location in central Illinois.

"This was the brightest meteor of the night and it actually left a 'smoke' trail (ionized gas) that lingered for a few seconds," Kini told Space.com in an email. "I had set my camera on a timer to take 20 second photos continuously but with about 1 second between exposures, and I would have completely missed the meteor if it came by in that one second between shots."

A shooting star streaks through the night sky next to the Milky Way. | Credit: Ameet Kini

Jeff Berkes captured this view of a fiery meteor blazing Earthward with a Nikon Z9 camera while running a night sky photography workshop in Yellowstone, Wyoming.

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"The display lasted no [longer than] 1.5 seconds but it felt like an eternity," said Berkes. "One of the best firefalls I have ever seen and the best one that I have captured over the last 15 years. What a special night this was. With a few meteor showers going on it is hard to tell which one it came from, or if it is a random! Either way, you just never know what you will see when you step out into the night. That is why I love it so much."

A Perseid meteor crosses the Milky Way in the skies above Yellowstone. | Credit: Jeff Berkes

Matt Melnyk was able to snap this rare view of a Perseid blazing through a sky wreathed in colorful aurora at a height of 37,000 feet (11,280 meters) while flying aboard a Boeing 787 'Dreamliner' traveling from Calgary to London on the morning of Aug. 10.

Image 1 of 2

A lone meteor is pictured streaking through a sky wreathed in a twisting green aurora in a scene shot from an airplane. The curvature of Earth is visible below.

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A lone meteor is pictured streaking through a sky wreathed in a twisting green aurora in a scene shot from an airplane. The curvature of Earth is visible below.

Photographer Ercin Erturk set up a striking composition that featured Perseids racing alongside the Milky Way in the sky above the Kusca Fairy Chimneys rock formations in the Cihanbeyli district of Konya, Turkey, on the night of Aug. 12, as the Perseids came to a peak.

Shooting stars captured alongside the Milky Way above the Kusca Fairy Chimneys rock formations in the Cihanbeyli district of Konya, Turkey | Credit: Photo by Ercin Erturk/Anadolu via Getty Images

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This striking view of a Perseid meteor framed by the columned roof of the Temple of Zeus in the ancient city site of Cavdarhisar was captured on Aug. 13 by Kemal Aslan from the Kutahya Province of Turkey.

Meteors are visible streaking through the night sky beyond the columns of the Temple of Zeus in Turkey. | Credit: Photo by KEMAL ASLAN/AFP via Getty Images

This image of a solitary meteor striking through the starry sky above the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China was also captured in the early hours of Aug. 13, as Earth passed through the densest part of comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.

A meteor heads Earthward in the skies above the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. | Credit: Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images

A bright Perseid was also spotted brightening the sky above the Monument to the Unknown Hero on Avala Mountain in Belgrade by Andrej Isakovic on the night of Aug. 12, as stargazers gathered to witness the 2025 Perseid maximum.

A meteor brightens the sky above the Monument to the Unknown Hero in Belgrade. | Credit: Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC/AFP via Getty Images

Photographer Zafer Goder used long-exposure photography to great effect to capture several Perseid meteors streaking through the sky on Aug. 12, alongside the bright lines of star trails, which can be seen circling the north star Polaris in the sky above Turkey.

Star trails and meteors captured in a long-exposure in the skies above Turkey. | Credit: Photo by Zafer Goder/Anadolu via Getty Images

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The Perseids will continue to be active until Aug. 23, albeit at a much lower hourly rate, so it's still possible to see the famous shooting stars before they disappear from our skies for another year. Stargazers hoping to capture a Perseid should check out our guide to photographing meteor showers and would do well to pick up Josh Dury's book '52 Assignments: Night Photography', which provides practical advice on how to image the night sky.

Editor's Note: If you would like to share your astrophotography with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com.
(FOX40.COM)  The Nevada County Sheriffs Office launched a death investigation after Adrian Aaron Aaby, 48, of Grass Valley, was found dead on July 21 in Nevada City.

 Video above: How to report a public safety threat

The sheriffs office said Aaby was found dead on the side of Banner Quaker Hill Road. The initial investigation shows that the evidence was uncovered by NCSO Major Crime Unit detectives, which suggested that Aaby was a victim of homicide.

Family owned Kikis Chicken Place announces closures of its 10 locations in Sacramento area

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Throughout the investigation, the NCSO stated that detectives identified a person of interest and determined him to be Damon Brice Abraham, 49, of Grass Valley. They obtained a Ramey arrest warrant for homicide and a search warrant.

Detectives executed a search warrant at Abrahams home in Grass Valley on August 7. However, he was not home at that time. That same day, Abraham was arrested in Sacramento by California State Parks for unrelated charges and booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail.

NCSO said he is under arrest for homicide and will be transferred to Wayne Brown Correctional Facility in Nevada City at a later date.

At this time, the case remains under investigation

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (PIX11)  A suspect was shot during a raid by the Drug Enforcement Administration in New Jersey early Wednesday morning, according to public officials.

A DEA officer was assaulted on Kingston Road in Parsippany, a representative for the FBI said, but they were unable to provide exact details as to what led up to the shooting. Officials say the DEA and its federal partners were executing a court-authorized search warrant on Wednesday morning when shots were fired.

More Crime News

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The injured suspect was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, a spokesperson for the DEA told PIX11 News.

Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 just a few weeks, students will return to college campuses across the countryinto an environment reshaped by the Supreme Courts decision to end affirmative action. The effects are no longer theoretical: last years freshman class revealed the consequences of that ruling. At Amherst College, Black student enrollment dropped by eight percentage points. At MIT, it plunged from 15 percent to just 5 percent. Yet somehow, Yale, Princeton and Duke maintained their diversity levels, raising uncomfortable questions about whether some schools are quietly working around the Courts decision.

Now, as the class of 2029 settles into dorm rooms, the Trump administration has escalated the stakes. This spring, federal investigators launched probes into more than 50 universities for alleged racial discrimination  not against students of color, but against white and Asian American students. The charge? That DEI programs (diversity, equity and inclusion) give unfair advantage to underrepresented groups. Unless universities certify that they run no illegal diversity efforts, they risk losing federal funds.

Thats more than a shift in enforcement priorities. Its a stunning reversal: civil rights laws once used to dismantle segregation are now being leveraged to dismantle efforts at racial integration.

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Of course, questions about how DEI programs are designed and implemented are fair, and many institutions have taken those critiques seriously. Even those who believe in the fundamental importance of diversity can acknowledge that some approaches have fallen short or have been perceived as exclusionary. These are not reasons to abandon the goals altogether, but to refine how we pursue them.

At heart, though, this isnt just a policy dispute. Its a clash between two constitutional visions: one that views equality as requiring colorblindness, and another that understands justice as requiring attention to race and competing histories. The conflict has been decades in the making.

In 1978, in Regents of the University of California v. Bakke, the Supreme Court tried to walk a tightrope. Justice Lewis Powell allowed universities to consider race as one factor among many to promote the educational benefits of diversity. The goal was a richer classroom conversation, not racial remedy.

But by 2003, in Grutter v. Bollinger, diversity had morphed from intellectual enrichment into national necessity. The Court spoke of producing military officers, Fortune 500 executives, and judges who looked like the communities they served. Colleges werent just classrooms anymore; they were training grounds for Americas leadership class.

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That broader rationale helped Grutter survive constitutional scrutiny  but it came at a price. If diversity served institutional goals rather than individual justice, then who was it really for?

Too often, the answer was: everyone else. Students of color were no longer being admitted because they deserved opportunity or because the law demanded a remedy for past discrimination. They were being admitted to help others learn, to make universities look good, to fill out the brochure. As Justice Clarence Thomas warned in Grutter, such policies risked turning students into instruments of racial engineering  valued not for who they were, but for what they symbolized.

And so, the seeds of affirmative actions downfall were sown.

That downfall came in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard (2023). The Court ruled that race-conscious admissions violated the Constitutions guarantee of equal protection. Chief Justice John Roberts insisted that applicants must be treated as individuals, not as representatives of racial groups. In one sweep, the Court ended the era of affirmative action in higher education.

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Trumps executive orders take that logic even further. They direct federal agencies to review DEI initiatives across the board, not just in admissions, but also in hiring, training, and campus programs. Agencies have been instructed to treat nearly any consideration of race as suspect. Schools that fail to comply face losing federal support.

But this approach ignores a deeper reality: DEI programs often help organizations comply with civil rights laws by ensuring that opportunity is truly equal. When deep-rooted disparities persist, treating everyone the same often cements inequality.

This constitutional paradox  between the promise of equal protection and the persistence of unequal conditions  lies at the heart of our national debate. Does fairness mean treating everyone identically, or does it mean recognizing how unequal starting points still shape opportunity?

Recently, a federal judge blocked major portions of Trumps anti-DEI orders, calling them vague and likely unconstitutional. But the court battle wont end there. The bigger question remains unresolved.

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Maybe the answer isnt to choose between individual rights and group equality, but to see how one can depend on the other. True individual fairness sometimes requires acknowledging group-based disadvantage. The Constitutions promise of equal protection isnt fulfilled by pretending that race doesnt matter; its fulfilled by knowing when it does.

Until we reconcile that fundamental tension, our battles over diversity will keep flaring up with each political swing. The questions arent new. But were still struggling to answer them.
Hospitals nationwide deploy over 2,000 experts to assist medical institutions in Xizang

Xinhua) 10:10, August 13, 2025

Doctors from Dalian of northeast China's Liaoning Province and Nagqu discuss on a patient's condition at a hospital in Nagqu, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, July 18, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Doctors from Beijing and Lhasa perform a surgery on a patient at a hospital in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Aug. 5, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Doctors from Quanzhou of southeast China's Fujian Province and Lhorong County of Qamdo discuss on a patient's condition at a hospital in Qamdo, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, July 21, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A doctor from Dalian of northeast China's Liaoning Province and a nurse from Nagqu discuss on a patient's condition at a hospital in Nagqu, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, July 18, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Doctors from Beijing and Lhasa take a group photo after performing a surgery at a hospital in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Aug. 5, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Doctors from Beijing and Lhasa monitor a surgery at a hospital in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Aug. 5, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Doctors from Beijing and Lhasa discuss on a patient's condition at a hospital in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Aug. 5, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A doctor and a nurse provide rehabilitation therapy for a patient at a hospital in Qamdo, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, July 21, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Doctors from Beijing and Lhasa perform a surgery at a hospital in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Aug. 4, 2025. Since 2015, 203 hospitals from 17 provinces and cities nationwide have deployed over 2,000 experts in teams to assist medical institutions in Xizang, training 5,536 local medical staff in the region. (Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The News in Brief Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Tbilisi court has sentenced protester and war veteran Anatoli Gigauri to two years in prison, following a last-minute reclassification of charges in his case.Judge Jvebe Nachkebia announced the verdict on August 12, shifting the accusation from assaulting a police officer to the lesser charge of "resistance, threat or violence against an official." This change reduced the maximum possible penalty from seven years to six. Gigauri pleaded not guilty and claimed the case was politically motivated."My detention was political and my imprisonment, too, will be political," Gigauri told the court in his closing remarks, according to RFE/RL's Georgian Service. "It has nothing to do with law or justice."The ruling comes after several delays and is the 12th prison sentence connected to anti-government protests since November 2024. Earlier this month, journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli received a similar sentence under the same downgraded charge.Gigauri, a veteran of the 2008 Russia-Georgia war and a former serviceman in Afghanistan, was arrested on November 25 while traveling to his hometown after attending a post-election rally in Tbilisi. He alleges that police beat him during his detention.Prosecutors presented footage from Imedi TV, recorded the night before his arrest, that appeared to show Gigauri striking a police officer. His defense team requested longer footage from the same scene, which they say was initially withheld by the broadcaster. Once released, the extended video showed Officer Vakhtang Gabunia hitting Gigauri in the head first, knocking off his cap.Defense lawyers argued that Gigauri's slap, delivered seconds later, was an act of self-defense after the officer appeared ready to strike again.Expert testimony presented in court has challenged a key claim in the prosecution's case against Nika Katsia, a protester who faces severe drug-related charges.According to Katsia's lawyer, Nino Lominadze, toxicology experts confirmed during Tuesday's hearing that Katsia had no traces of drug use, contradicting statements made in the indictment. "Experts who took hair samples and conducted toxicological research testified and determined that Nika Katsia was not a user of narcotic substances," Lominadze told reporters after the session. "Hair can retain information about drug use for months or even years, yet no traces were found."Lominadze said she had requested the examination earlier in the case, but prosecutors initially refused. She added that the experts' findings were categorical and left no indication of prior drug use.Katsia was charged under Article 260, Part 6 of the Criminal Code, which covers the illegal acquisition and possession of large quantities of narcotics. The charge carries a penalty ranging from eight to 20 years in prison or life imprisonment. Katsia was arrested on December 7.At the latest hearing, experts invited by the defense reiterated that the hair sample analysis did not confirm any drug use.
Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (Indian Oil) on Wednesday said it has become the first in the country to receive the prestigious ISCC CORSIA Certification for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production at its Panipat Refinery. The certification, a prerequisite for commercial SAF production, represents a significant advancement in India's capability for the production, certification and distribution of SAF. This milestone was marked by a special ceremony held in New Delhi, where the international certifying agency Cotecna formally handed over the certification to A S Sahney, Chairman, Indian Oil, in the presence of Rohit Mathur, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Maneesh Kumar, Joint Director General, DGCA. The event was also attended by senior officials from the petroleum ministry, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB). Commending the achievement, IndianOil Chairman, MoPNG Joint Secretary, DGCA Jt. DG and NABCB Sr Director all praised the coordinated efforts of MoP&NG, DGCA, NABCB, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), and international certifying agency Cotecna, that has helped align India's regulatory and production frameworks with international best practices in green aviation. The ISCC CORSIA certification, i.e., International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC), developed under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), validates that SAF meets the highest international sustainability and lifecycle carbon emission standards. SAF produced at IndianOil's Panipat Refinery has undergone rigorous assessment for lifecycle carbon emissions and traceability, creating a clear pathway for Indian airlines to integrate certified SAF into their operations. The certification also sets a benchmark for other domestic refiners and industry players to scale up SAF production, in line with the government's vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Last Monday, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu announced that Indian Oil's Panipat Refinery has been certified as the country's first Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) producer. In 2014, the ethanol blending was just 1.53 per cent. By 2022, India achieved 10 per cent blending, five months ahead of schedule. The original target of 20 per cent blending (E20) by 2030 was advanced to 2025 and has already been achieved in the current Ethanol Supply Year. This remarkable growth has helped reduce the country's dependence on imported crude oil, leading to a significant saving of Rs 1.36 lakh crore in foreign exchange. (ANI)
LIMA, Peru (AP)  Peru's president on Wednesday signed an amnesty bill into law, preventing military personnel and police officers from being prosecuted over alleged human rights abuses during the countrys armed conflict decades ago.

The new law came despite calls from the local and international community to strike it down. The war that raged between the Peruvian military and the Shining Path communist insurgency from 1980 to 2000 left an estimated 70,000 people dead, the majority of them in rural areas.

President Dina Boluarte said during an official ceremony that Peru honors those people who confronted the insurgency with courage and dedication." She added that military members and police officers have carried for years the burden of endless trials, unjust accusations, and a pain that has affected not only them but also their families.

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The decision to enact the law drew immediate criticism from some rights groups.

Human Rights Watch said in a statement that the law grants impunity to those involved in serious crimes, adding that Peru now joins Nicaragua, Venezuela and other countries in disregarding the rights of victims.

This law is quite simply a betrayal of Peruvian victims, said Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at the rights group. It undermines decades of efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities and weakens the countrys rule of law even further.

The law was passed by Congress in July. A coalition of human rights organizations said that it could wipe out 156 convictions and another 600 cases that are being prosecuted.

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Supporters of the law come from right-wing political parties that have historically defended the military, including the Popular Force party led by Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, who died in September. The ex-president, who led Peru from 1990 to 2000, was in prison for most of the last 15 years of his life in prison after being convicted of crimes against humanity.

Fujimori's administration helped to put the nations economy on track following years of hyperinflation and defeated the Shining Path, a fanatic communist group that led a violent campaign to overthrow the government. But his government took an authoritarian turn in 1992, when he ordered the military to shut down Perus congress and its supreme court and declared a state of emergency.

Other amnesty laws passed in 1995 in Peru shielded military and police personnel from prosecution for alleged human rights abuses during the countrys internal conflict, including massacres, torture and forced disappearances.

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights had at least twice previously declared amnesty laws in Peru invalid for violating the right to justice and breaching international human rights standards.

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A truth commission determined that the majority of the conflicts victims were Indigenous Peruvians caught up in clashes between security forces and Shining Path.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Peru's president has signed a controversial new law pardoning soldiers, police and civilian militias on trial for atrocities during the country's two-decade armed conflict against Maoist rebels.

Dina Boluarte enacted the measure that was passed by Congress in July, despite an order from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights to suspend it pending a review of its impact on victims.

The law will benefit hundreds of members of the armed forces, police and self-defence committees accused of crimes committed between 1980 and 2000.

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It will also mandate the release of those over 70 serving sentences for such offences.

During the conflict, the Shining Path and Tupac Amaru rebel groups waged insurgencies in which an estimated 70,000 people were killed and more than 20,000 disappeared, according to Peru's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

Boluarte, elected in 2022 as the the country's first female president, said the Peruvian government was paying tribute to the forces who - she said - fought against terrorism and in defence of democracy.

Human rights organisations have condemned the law. Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, called it "a betrayal of Peruvian victims" that "undermines decades of efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities".

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United Nations experts and Amnesty International had urged Boluarte to veto the bill, saying that it violated Peru's duty to investigate and prosecute grave abuses including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture and sexual violence.

UN experts said the amnesty could halt or overturn more than 600 pending trials and 156 convictions.

The TRC found that state agents, notably the armed forces, were responsible for 83% of documented sexual violence cases.

Last year, Peru adopted a statute of limitations for crimes against humanity committed before 2002, effectively shutting down hundreds of investigations into alleged crimes committed during the fighting.

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The initiative benefited late president Alberto Fujimori, who was jailed for atrocities - including the massacre of civilians by the army - but released from prison in 2023 on humanitarian grounds. He died in September 2024.

Meanwhile, former president Martin Vizcarra was ordered on Wednesday to be held in preventative detention for five months over allegations he received $640,000 in bribes while governor of Moquegua between 2011 and 2014.

He is the fifth former president to be jailed in corruption investigations.
Peruvian President Dina Boluarte on Wednesday signed into law a controversial bill granting amnesty to military personnel, police and members of civilian self-defense units over a bloody 1980-2000 campaign against leftist Shining Path guerrillas.

"Today, with the enactment of this amnesty law, the government is paying tribute to the military and self-defense groups that participated in the fight against terrorism," Boluarte said during a ceremony at the presidential palace.

The law benefits uniformed personnel accused or convicted of crimes committed during fighting between state forces and the Shining Path and Tupac Amaru rebel groups, in which 70,000 people were killed, according to official figures.

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The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) had said Peru must "immediately suspend" approval of the law or -- if it was enacted -- refrain from applying it while the court looks into how the amnesty would affect victims' rights.

Boluarte had criticized the IACHR's decision.

A report by UN experts last month urged Boluarte's government to veto the law, arguing Peru "has a duty to investigate, prosecute and punish gross human rights violations and crimes under international law committed during the conflict."

The new law could affect 156 cases that have been decided and more than 600 others still underway over crimes committed during that 20-year span, those experts said.

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In August 2024, Peru adopted a statute of limitations for crimes against humanity committed before 2002, effectively shutting down hundreds of investigations into alleged crimes committed during the fighting.

The initiative benefited late president Alberto Fujimori, who was jailed for atrocities -- including the massacre of civilians by the army -- but released from prison in 2023 on humanitarian grounds.

It also helped 600 prosecuted military personnel.

According to Peru's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, there are more than 4,000 clandestine graves in the country as a result of two decades of political violence.

ljs/sf/sst/bjt
Graphic Warning: This story contains graphic images or video that may be disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.

(NewsNation)  A photojournalist based in Gaza is capturing firsthand the struggle for people in the region to get food, saying supplies and food are often stolen, and airdrops are providing less than what is needed.

Fadel Mghari, a freelance Gaza-based photojournalist, told NewsNation that humanitarian food aid is not reaching him or his family.

Residents carry sacks of supplies in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Residents carry sacks of supplies in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Residents carry sacks of supplies in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Residents carry sacks of supplies in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Air dropped aid lands near Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Residents rush to collect aid from airdrops near Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari Mother hold her four year old in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari

The aid does not reach us because it enters in quantities that are not enough for less than a quarter or less than 10%, Mghari said.

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The Associated Press reported last month that planes from the Jordanian and UAE Air Forces airdropped 17 tons of aid packages last month. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, warned that airdrops are expensive, inefficient and can even kill starving civilians.

The 17 tons of airdropped aid amounts to less than one aid truck carrying food based on the World Food Programmes calculation of nearly 19 tons per truck.

Israel announces plan to to take control of Gaza

On Sunday, 180 trucks carrying aid entered Gaza, according to the Israeli military body in charge of overseeing humanitarian aid.

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Based in the Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip, Mgharis photography has been featured in Al Jazeera and other publications since the start of the war. He believes the planes that dropped aid in the region were Belgian and Greek.

He says food that enters the region is often susceptible to theft by armed gangs, often leaving crumbs of food left when it gets to its destination.

When he tries to buy his own food, he told NewsNation that simple ingredients like lentils, flour and oil cost him as much as $100.

There are nine people at home; we eat only one meal. Sometimes, we only eat bread, and sometimes, we dont eat, just some water, he said.

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NewsNation reached out to the Israel Defense Forces for comment and did not hear back at the time of publication.

Documenting the fight for food in Gaza

As he documents life on the ground in Gaza, Mghari has captured heartbreaking images of mothers losing babies and children dying of starvation.

A 4-year-old drinks from a bottle in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari.

Photos of aid airdropped into the region show the chaos of people rushing to get food.

Aid is airdropped near Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari.

Israeli ambassador on starvation in Gaza: UN blocking aid

Others show dozens of Gaza residents waiting with empty pots in hopes of having them filled with food.

People hold pots for food and water in Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip. Courtesy Fadel Mghari.

Mghari said to NewsNation, Its easy to say that Im starting to lose my mind.

Netanyahu states there is no starvation in Gaza

Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu contested, There is no policy of starvation in Gaza, and there is no starvation in Gaza. We enable humanitarian aid throughout the duration of the war to enter Gaza  otherwise, there would be no Gazans.

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President Donald Trump was among those pushing back on Netanyahus statement, saying, Those children look very hungry.

The United Nations stated in July that Gaza is facing catastrophic hunger, and children are dying before our eyes.

The World Health Organization announced last month, Malnutrition is on a dangerous trajectory in the Gaza Strip, marked by a spike in deaths in July.

The WHO reported that of the 74 malnutrition-related deaths that occurred in 2025, 63 of them happened last month, including 24 children under the age of 5.

Most of these people were declared dead on arrival at health facilities or died shortly after, their bodies showing clear signs of severe wasting, the agency reported.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
The suspected gunman accused of shooting a child and two adults dead in a Target car park appeared bloodied in a mugshot released by a Texas police force.

Ethan Nieneker, 32, is accused of killing a man, a four-year-old girl and her grandfather in a car park in Austin on Monday.

Austin police shared a mugshot of Mr Nieneker, which shows gashes and bruises around his eyes.

The alleged killer, whom police described as having a mental health history, was detained following a police chase that involved two cars he had stolen for his failed getaway.

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Officers said he was found naked holding a Bible and claiming to be Jesus.

Mr Nieneker is being held in Travis County Jail on murder charges.

Nieneker was arrested after a police chase - Facebook

He already has a lengthy criminal record, including arrests for assault, family violence, drunk driving and criminal mischief, Fox News reported.

The shooting unfolded at around 2.15pm local time, when Mr Nieneker allegedly entered the shop car park and opened fire with a handgun at random, killing Hector Martinez Machuca, Adam Chow and his granddaughter.

He first approached Machuca, a Target employee, shooting him as he collected carts outside the store, according to Austin Police Sgt Nathan Sexton.

Police outside the Target store, where the shooting unfolded - Austin American-Statesman

Mr Nieneker is then alleged to have approached a family getting into a Toyota, where police said he gunned down Mr Chow and his granddaughter, before assaulting the mans wife and stealing their car.

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Mr Machuca later died in hospital, while Mr Chow and his granddaughter both died at the scene. His wife suffered minor injuries as a result of her assault.

As Mr Nieneker made his hour-long getaway, Sgt Sexton said he was responsible for causing at least one crash, attempting to steal a truck, assaulting another woman who he threw from a vehicle during a car-jacking, and attempting to break into a taxi.

The stolen Toyota 4-Runner crashed into a Volkswagen before landing on top of an Infiniti SUV - Austin American-Statesman

Mr Nieneker was eventually tasered by police around 20 miles from the scene and taken into custody, while the murder weapon was recovered from the Chow familys Toyota 4-Runner, police said.

In addition to murder charges, Mr Nieneker is expected to face charges related to assault, vehicle theft and property damage.

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Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said: This is a very sad day for Austin. Its a very sad day for us all and my condolences go out to the families.

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 Center Square)  Jim Walsh, chair of the Washington State Republican Party, says officials with the Washington State Fair are asking for a world of hurt if they dont reverse course in a flap with the Pierce County Republican Party.

In the meantime, Pierce County Republican Party Chair Dave McMullan told The Center Square he will meet with fair executives on Thursday to try to reach a resolution. The fair is set to open in a little over two weeks.

As reported by The Center Square, the dispute involves what McMullan says are new restrictions put on the Pierce County Republican Party, including a prohibition on gathering signatures and selling GOP merchandise at the organizations booth inside the fairs ShowPlex pavilion.

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Long-standing rules do not allow signature gathering or political merchandise sales in marketplace buildings to help maintain the guest experience, according to an email from WSF Public Relations Manager Stacy Van Horne.

McMullan told The Center Square that county Republicans have gathered signatures and sold merchandise at their booth during the fair for the last several years, and its never been an issue. He said he had not been informed of any policy change until recently.

Fair organizers offered the party a different location near the fairs Green Gate, where they could conduct signature gathering and sell merchandise, but McMullan said it is located outdoors and not a viable option for the partys needs.

Walsh, who also serves as a state representative from Aberdeen, spoke with The Center Square on Wednesday about the controversy.

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The language in the several letters that the fair staff has sent out, not just to the Pierce County GOP but also to other organizations and groups that are generally of a more conservative nature, [is] extremely troubling, he said. And we believe they may be a violation of the public accommodations law, federal law, and anti-discrimination law.

Walsh referred to a letter posted on Facebook that was sent to the Washington Alliance for Life, informing the organization it could not set up a booth at the fair this year.

The letter said the fair was evolving to meet current guests' interests within the alignment of the Fairs mission and values.

Its a completely spurious argument, Walsh said. In fact, it's an admission of prohibited behavior under the Civil Rights Act. The propaganda narrative that the staff of the fair are putting forward doesn't protect them at all; it further incriminates them. It's very bizarre.

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Walsh noted there is also a state statute that gives protection against discrimination as well.

You can call it viewpoint discrimination. You can call it ideological discrimination. Whatever you call it, it is generally illegal, he said. It's my opinion that this correspondence and these actions taken by fair staff exposed the group to a significant litigation risk.

Walsh said the state party is trying to stay out of the fight and let the county party lead the charge, but indicated the Washington State Republican Party stands ready to intervene if necessary.

I don't know what their insurance or their liability coverage structure is, but my goodness, they better be checking with their underwriters and find out what kind of coverage they've got because they are exposing themselves to significant litigation risk, Walsh reiterated. We are going to try to work out some sort of amicable solution to this unfortunate episode. If we're not able to help work it out, we will be actively involved in other forms of resolution to this illegal discrimination. These guys are asking for a world of hurt.

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McMullan retained some optimism that the situation could be resolved amicably, adding he is looking forward to Thursdays meeting with fair officials.

The Washington State Fair runs from Aug. 29 through Sept. 21. The fair is closed on Tuesdays and Sept. 3.
One person is dead following a plane crash in Monticello

A North American T-28B aircraft crashed into a field due to "unknown circumstances" just after 8 p.m. on Aug. 11, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The pilot, who was the only person on board, died. The identity of the pilot has yet to be released.

East Iowa Air Inc., based in Bennett, Iowa, is registered as the owner of the aircraft, according to the FAA. The plane was originally manufactured for the armed forces as a trainer aircraft. It is a two-seat plane equipped with one engine that could reach speeds up to 208 mph.

Where is Monticello, Iowa?

Monticello, is in eastern Iowa, near Dubuque. It is two and a half hours away from Des Moines.

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Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Monticello, Iowa plane crash kills pilot
Heres what youll learn when you read this article:

A pilot perusing Google Earth may have stumbled across the remnants of Amelia Earharts plane.

Inspired by a documentary on the Earharts final flight, Justin Myers compared the measurements of anomalies in a Google Earth image to the components of her plane.

So far, no major institutions have made any effort to investigate his claims.

This story is a collaboration with Popular Mechanics.



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What would you do if you thought youd cracked an unsolved mystery, but nobody wanted to listen?

Thats the predicament pilot Justin Myers currently finds himself in. With nearly a quarter-century in the air himself, he believes hes uncovered the answer to one of aviations most enduring mysteries: Where is the wreckage of Amelia Earharts Lockheed Electra 10E, the final plane she ever flew? All it took was Google Earth and a little curiosity.



Unlike some who have tried to find the wreckage from Earhart and Fred Noonans ill-fated final flight in 1937, Myers was not a life-long Earhart obsessive.

To be totally honest, Myers told Popular Mechanics, my interest started after watching a documentary on the National Geographic Channel. It was the next day when curiosity about Nikumaroro Island took me to looking on Google Earth.

Justin Myers

Nikumaroro Island is often posited as a final resting place for, if not Earhart and Noonan themselves, than at least the Electra they were flying in. As Biography previously noted, This theory is based on several on-site investigations that have turned up artifacts such as improvised tools, bits of clothing, an aluminum panel and a piece of Plexiglas the exact width and curvature of an Electra window.



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When Myers first looked up Nikumaroro, he wasnt initially looking for a plane at all. I was just putting myself in Amelia and Freds shoes, he told PopMech. But as he stared at those overhead images, he started to employ his own experience as a pilot, to think about where I would have force landed a light twin aircraft in their position, lost and low on fuel.

Thats when Myers noticed what he felt were some anomalies on the map. He detailed his observations in a blog post: I picked an area which would probably have been what I thought to be best considering the circumstances. I zoomed in and there was a long sandy-looking shape... I measured the sandy section, which was over 50ft long, looked up the specifications of the Electra, and that measured 39ft.

Next to the sandy section, however, was a dark, straight object that was exactly 39 feet long. It looked man-made, Myers noted as he continued to examine the object, it looked like a section of aircraft fuselage.

Justin Myers

As Myers poured over the images more, he made out what appeared to him to be even more airplane debris, including what looked like a partially exposed radial engine, and his approximate measurements all aligned with the dimensions of the corresponding parts of the Lockheed Electra 10E that Earhart and Noonan had flown.

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But if these airplane parts could be seen from Google Earth images, why hadnt anyone seen them before? Myers suggested to PopMech that there was an element of luck in spotting that aircraft debris, as Mother Nature had revealed what had been buried on the reef for a long time. I managed to catch some photos before being covered over again by passing weather systems.

So, Myers assembled his images and his measurements, and was ready to present his findings. But just who do you present such a case to?

I didnt know really where to go with this, Myers wrote in his blog post. I wrote to the NTSB in the U.S., and they emailed me back saying it was not there [sic] jurisdiction, it was the ATSB, Australian Transport Safety Bureau. So, I filed an official report with the air crash investigation team in Brisbane.

But in the years since, there has been no real movement to take Myers theory beyond the theoretical. I did have some communication with an expedition company in California, Myers said to PopMech. However, I havent heard anything in a long time. I also contacted Purdue University a few years ago and recently, but unfortunately they never responded.

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So if Myers has found the solution to an enduring aeronautical quandary, why isnt anyone inquiring further? Well, in the case of Purdue University, its not as though theyre not pursuing answers to Earharts disappearance at all. PopMech reported in July that they had announced their own expedition to investigate an anomaly known as the Taraia Object, often speculated to be the downed Electra.

But its also an impediment to Myers outreach efforts that he is hardly alone in thinking he has found the final piece of the proverbial puzzle.

If you had a dollar for every person who claimed to have found Amelia Earharts plane, youd probably have enough money to fund an expedition to try and find it. Hopes for answers have hinged on everything from old photographs to the promise of modern-day technology. In the process, some people with wildly different theories have become prominent figures in the aircraft recovery community, which has resulted in bitter feuds and sometimes even lawsuits.

And of course, theres the risk of getting it wrong.

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In 2024, images from underwater drones operated by Tony Romeos Deep Sea Vision showed contours that mirror the unique dual tails and scale of the Lockheed Electra. At the time, Romeo had confidently stated that youd be hard-pressed to convince me that this is not an airplane and not Amelias plane.

But after another expedition was launched to more closely examine that anomaly, Romeo discovered that it was not an airplane but rather an ordinary rock formation. Im super disappointed out here, Romeo remarked after the fact, but you know, I guess thats life.

For his part, Myers isnt challenging others to convince him hes wrong, though he does feel confident, based on his measurements, that what hes found is more than just a naturally occurring phenomenon.

The bottom line is, he told PopMech, from my interests from a child in vintage aircraft and air crash investigation, I can say that is what was once a 12-metre, 2-engine vintage aircraft. What I cant say is that is definitely Amelias Electra.

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And if it isnt Amelias place, PopMech asked, would Myers be disappointed?

If this is not Amelias Electra 10 E, he said, then its the answer to another mystery that has never been answered. This finding could answer some questions to someone who disappeared many years ago.

If Myers found Amelia Earharts plane, it could bring him acclaim. But if its a different downed plane hes found, it could at least bring closure to the family of whoever piloted it.

Only time will tell if anyone with the funds to launch a search will take the leap of faith to see if there truly is a plane there at all.



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PLAINFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  A Plainfield couple, one of whom was a school nurse, were arrested Tuesday in connection with an alleged sexual assault involving a juvenile victim.

Police working with FBI to identify, find New Haven sexual assault suspect

After receiving a report in June, an investigation by the Plainfield police Special Investigations Unit determined that David Desimone, 56, had allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a juvenile on multiple occasions.

David Desimone

The investigation also alleged that David Desimones wife, Holly Desimone, 52, was aware of the incidents, but failed to report them to proper authorities, nor did she take steps to protect the victim, according to police.

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The Plainfield School District confirmed she is a nurse at Plainfield Central Middle School. In a statement, the district said it was aware of an arrest involving a staff member, but the staff member has been on leave since July 3 and that the alleged incident did not occur on school grounds.

On Wednesday, they confirmed that Holly Desimone has resigned from her role with the district.

Holly Desimone

David Desimone was charged with:

One count of first-degree sexual assault

Multiple counts of fourth-degree sexual assault

Four counts of risk of injury to a child-illegal sexual contact

One count of conspiracy to commit risk of injury-illegal sexual contact

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He was released on a $150,000 court-set bond.

Holly Desimone was charged with one count of conspiracy to commit risk of injury to a child. She was released on a $50,000 court-set bond.

Both are scheduled to be arraigned at State of Connecticut Superior Court in Danielson on Wednesday.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
The far north Fort Worth neighborhood association that is suing Keller school trustees over a derailed plan to split the district in two are now asking the state to step in to ensure that board meetings are conducted properly.

The Heritage Legal Task Force, formed by the Heritage Home Owners Association, also says it is filing criminal complaints against several trustees alleging Texas Open Meetings Act violations. Keller ISD board members had secretly discussed the idea of splitting the district last winter. Residents on the Alliance side of the district were outraged after the discussions became public, and the board eventually scuttled the plan.

There is significant disregard for public notice and disclosures to the public, said Cary Moon, chair of the Heritage Legal Task Force, during a press conference Tuesday. It is persistent and not transparent.

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Moon declined to say which authorities the plaintiffs contacted over the criminal complaints.

Keller school board president John Birt, vice president Heather Washington and former president Charles Randklev did not immediately respond to emails concerning the allegations. In legal filings, the school boards attorneys have argued that the trustees never operated outside legal bounds or violated the Open Meetings Act.

Moon said the Heritage Legal Task Force wants the Texas Education Agency to oversee the Keller school board to make sure meetings are conducted properly. The regulatory agency oversees public schools in the state. Moon emphasized that the task force is not asking the TEA to take over or manage the district.

The TEA didnt respond to an email seeking comment.

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There are critical decisions facing our school district right now from financing to programming and overall educating of our children, and this board has shown a total disregard for how it communicates and what it discloses to the public. And so, we believe the TEA has to step in to ensure that the governing of our school board is in compliance with our state law, Moon said.

Two lawsuits playing out in court seek to remove trustees Randklev, Washington and Birt from office, alleging incompetence and mismanagement.

Another suit, which was transferred to Johnson County, is seeking an injunction to prevent another effort to split the Keller district.

The Keller school board adopted a resolution in May stating that the proposed split was off of the table, but Moon said the board could vote to overturn the resolution with a simple majority.

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The suit, calling for removal of Birt, Washington and Randklev, alleges that discussions concerning splitting the district began as early as May 2024, and that nothing was listed on a meeting agenda concerning the proposed split until Jan. 16 of this year.

The Heritage neighborhood encompasses roughly 3,400 homes straddling Heritage Trace Parkway between Riverside Drive and Ray White Road. A GoFundMe effort to raise money for the groups legal fund had amassed $30,000 as of Tuesday, with a goal of $100,000.
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal inaugurated the newly expanded ISA building of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) here in the national capital on Wednesday, marking a significant step in strengthening India's intellectual property infrastructure. Highlighting India's rich history of innovation, Goyal cited the Konark Temple as an example of ancient precision and engineering, emphasising that innovation has been a part of the nation's identity for centuries. He described innovation as both a form of intellectual property and a symbol of sovereignty, underscoring its role in driving India's progress. He noted that in every developed country, innovation, research, and development have been key priorities, leading to prosperity. The Minister expressed confidence that the IPO will become a pivotal institution in India's journey toward Viksit Bharat by 2047. Talking to reporters later, Minister Goyal said, "It is a matter of great joy that our Intellectual Property Ecosystem has received this new building. About 700 people will work here. Whenever the NDA Govt comes to power, Intellectual Properties like patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs, GI gain strength. During the Vajpayee Government, the land was purchased, and Arun Jaitley performed the bhumi puja. Following PM Modi's rise to power, the entire Intellectual Property sector has gained renewed momentum. The Centre is allocating Rs 1 Lakh Crore for Research and Development, driving innovation. Our effort is to see that India's contribution to the global innovation, which was respected in the olden times, on similar lines, the R&D and innovation are further strengthened in the journey to 2047..." Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada lauded India's remarkable growth under the Prime Minister's leadership, noting the rapid progress of the intellectual property sector and predicting India's emergence as a global talent hub for electronics, IT, and semiconductors. The original ISA/IPEA building, constructed in 2014, was expanded in response to the unprecedented growth of India's IP ecosystem. Approved in 2018 and completed by NBCC in 2025, the project involved renovating the existing structure and adding five new floors, increasing capacity from 200 to over 700 personnel. The total built-up area now spans 140,120 square feet, with a project cost of Rs 88 crore. The facility includes modern workspaces for patents, designs, copyrights, and trademarks, along with examination halls and international affairs divisions. A state-of-the-art International Training Centre on the seventh floor features advanced digital tools and high-speed connectivity. "The building incorporates eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting, a sewage treatment plant (STP), and plant waste decomposers, in line with sustainable development goals. These facilities are expected to reduce maintenance costs, enhance productivity, and improve overall service delivery, thereby strengthening India's position in global IP administration," the commerce ministry said. (ANI)
Correction: This story has been updated to correct the name of the suspect. Information given to WesternSlopeNow gave his name was David Leroy Carter Jr. His name is David Leroy Carver.

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX)  A Breeze Airways plane was diverted to the Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) on Wednesday morning because of an unruly passenger, according to the Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD).

The individual, who was not named in the GJPD news release, was reportedly intoxicated before becoming agitated and yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard. The passenger was allegedly restrained twice but broke out of them each time.

In this screenshot, a passenger films the suspect, Los Angeles man David Leroy Carver Jr., 46, being taken into custody by the Grand Junction Police Department. (Courtesy Photo/WAVY)

Although initial reports stated the suspect assaulted someone, GJPD said no one was struck and no injuries were reported.

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After landing, the passenger was taken into custody by GJPD at the direction of the FBI. He was transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility.

FBI officials told WesternSlopeNow that Los Angeles man David Leroy Carver Jr., 46, was arrested for the incident. The investigation is ongoing. Further information on charges will be provided by the U.S. Attorneys Office for Colorado or made available by the federal court, according to the FBI.

The plane originally departed from the Norfolk International Airport in Virginia and was heading to the Los Angeles International Airport before it was diverted.

A GJT spokesperson said Breeze Airways is working on getting another plane for the passengers to fly to Los Angeles.

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A spokesperson with Breeze Airways said in a statement to WesternSlopeNow regarding the incident, Our focus now is on taking care of our Crew and remaining Guests who have been unfairly inconvenienced by this unfortunate event and getting them safely to their final destination as quickly as possible.

The Grand Junction Fire Department also responded to the incident.

WesternSlopeNow has reached out to the FBI for comment.

An assault reportedly happened on a Breeze Airways and was diverted to the Grand Junction Regional Airport. The Grand Junction Police Department can be seen responding to the incident. (WesternSlopeNow/David Jones/Courtesy Photo)

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Kulsum Beghum sorts waste at a landfill in Dhaka. Her blood contains 650 microplastic particles per millilitre, according to an analysis funded by a waste pickers' union.

"Plastic is not good for me," she told AFP through a translator during an interview in Geneva, where she came to bear witness on the sidelines of 184-nation talks to forge the world's first global plastic pollution treaty.

"It started 30 years ago" in the Bangladeshi capital, the 55-year-old said, supported by her union.

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At first, "plastic was for cooking oil and soft drinks", she recalled. Then came shopping bags, which replaced traditional jute bags. "We were attracted to plastic, it was so beautiful!"

Today, in one of the most economically fragile countries on the planet, plastic is everywhere: lining the streets, strewn across beaches, clogging the drains.

Alamgir Hossain, a member of an association affiliated with the International Alliance of Waste Pickers, showed photos on her phone.

Beghum wants non-recyclable plastics banned, pointing out that she cannot resell them and they have no market value.

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"No one collects them," she said.

- 'Disaster for the environment' -

Indumathi from Bangalore in southern India, who did not give her full name, concurs: 60 percent of the plastic waste that arrives at the sorting centre she set up is non-recyclable, she told AFP.

This includes crisp packets made of a mixture of aluminium and plastic, and other products using "multi-layer" plastic. "No one picks them up from the streets and there are a lot of them," she said.

Scientists attending the treaty negotiations at the United Nations in Geneva back her up.

"Multi-layer plastic bags are a disaster for the environment," said Stephanie Reynaud, a polymer chemistry researcher at France's National Centre for Scientific Research.

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"They cannot be recycled."

Indamathi was also critical of what she described as public policy failures.

After single-use bags were banned in her country in 2014, for example, she saw the arrival of black or transparent polypropylene lunchboxes, which are also single-use.

"We're seeing more and more of them on the streets and in landfills. They've replaced shopping bags," she said.

According to a recent OECD report on plastic in Southeast Asia, "more ambitious public policies could reduce waste by more than 95 percent by 2050" in the region, where plastic consumption increased ninefold since 1990 to 152 million tonnes in 2022.

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- Plastics 'colonialism' -

Consumer demand is not to blame, argues Seema Prabhu of the Swiss-based NGO Trash Heroes, which works mainly in Southeast Asian countries.

The market has been flooded with single-use plastic replacing traditional items in Asia, such as banana leaf packaging in Thailand and Indonesia, and metal lunch boxes in India.

"It's a new colonialism that is eroding traditional cultures," she told AFP. According to her, more jobs could be created "in a reuse economy than in a single-use economy".

Single-dose "sachets" of shampoo, laundry detergent or sauces are a scourge, said Yuyun Ismawati Drwiega, an Indonesian who co-chairs the International Pollutants Elimination Network NGO.

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"They are the smallest plastic items with which the industry has poisoned us -- easy to carry, easy to obtain; every kiosk sells them," she told AFP.

In Indonesia, collection and sorting centres specialising in sachets have failed to stem the tide, mostly shutting down not long after opening.

In Bali, where Ismawati Drwiega lives, she organises guided tours that she has nicknamed "Beauty and the Beast".

The beauty is the beaches and luxury hotels; the beast is the back streets, the tofu factories that use plastic briquettes as fuel, and the rubbish dumps.

im/mh/rjm/giv
Vasyl Maliuk, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), has said that the SSU engages world-renowned plastic surgeons to protect the lives of its undercover agents after missions.

Source: Maliuk in an interview with the We-Ukraine TV channel

Quote: "A critically important factor is, above all, the safety of these people. When they return from behind enemy lines after completing particularly complex operations, the first priority is to ensure their security.

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That is why we have an entire programme in place  a whole range of security measures. This includes, if necessary and with the direct consent of the agent, actually changing their appearance."

Details: Asked whether this had happened in reality, Maliuk confirmed it had  more than once.

"Of course, and repeatedly. Leading plastic surgeons with international reputations take part in this. Afterwards, cover documents are prepared, and these people start life anew, from scratch, if we know the enemy is on their trail," he said.

He added that there are "many other forms of support" for such operatives, including providing them with housing.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Wildland firefighters engage in cold trailing while mopping up around the West Mountain Complex fires in Idaho on Aug. 26, 2024. Cold trailing is a method of controlling partly dead fire edges by carefully inspecting and feeling an area for heat, by hand. (Photo courtesy of U.S Forest Service/ InciWeb Information System)

Here we are now, in the typically hot month of August in Idaho. Our rangelands and forests are extremely dry at this time of year, and ripe for burning.

Currently Stage 1 fire restrictions are in place for state, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service lands, but we need to double-down in our message to Idahoans about the need for everyone to be smart and do your part to prevent wildfires.

As a rancher, mom, business woman, volunteer wildland firefighter and chair of the Idaho Rangeland Resources Commission, Im particularly concerned about the huge potential for range fires ignited by careless people when theyre venturing outdoors.

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Roughly 80 percent of the wildfires that occur in Idaho and the West are typically human-caused. It might be accidental; it might be out of neglect. But we can make a difference if we use common sense.

I live near Grand View, and when I see a giant mushroom cloud rising above the Snake River Plains and the mountains above, I get this awful feeling in my heart about who or what might be killed or injured by that wildfire, whos valuable range might be getting burned up, the potential loss of wildlife and livestock, native plants and shrubs, and more.

In the Idaho Rangeland Resources Commissions Life on the Range series, we featured a story about the human-caused Moose wildfire near Salmon in 2022. The fire quickly took off in steep terrain in the Salmon River Breaks, and burned 130,000 acres over 4  months, causing millions in damage.

One careless camper left a campfire unattended the morning after spending the night next to the Salmon River. Sparks from the campfire blew across the river into a steep canyon and suddenly the whole canyon was ablaze. All of this because of one person neglecting to do one of the most basic things when you go camping: put out your campfire until its dead-out! It must be doused with water until its cold to the touch.

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Humans can cause fires in other ways too:

Vehicle fires occur along our highways and freeways from poorly maintained vehicles or flat tires that can turn into balls of fire.

Dragging chains behind any kind of trailer.

Errant bullets can strike rocks and spark wildfires from shooters who dont have a proper backstop.

Sparks from chainsaws, motorbikes or ATVs can ignite wildfires in tall grass.

Arson-caused fires  the unthinkable does happen!

Dry conditions in the West make the risk of catastrophic wildfire from lightning that comes with afternoon thunderstorms very high. Firefighter staffing is limited within the region. When a human-caused fire starts, it can force firefighting professionals to respond to areas they wouldnt otherwise have to be, and prevent them from responding quickly to lightning  caused fires that can quickly move across the landscape.

Please, do your part to keep Idaho, Idaho, and lets enjoy the rest of the summer with clear blue smokeless skies.

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WARSAW (Reuters) -Polish prosecutors have charged a group of six people with offences including sabotage commissioned by foreign intelligence services, a spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Poland says its role as a hub for aid to Ukraine has made it a target for Russian and Belarusian secret services, accusing Moscow and Minsk of commissioning acts of sabotage such as arson on Polish soil.

Russia and Belarus have rejected such allegations.

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The prosecutors' office said the trigger for the investigation came from information uncovered during a probe into the activities of Ukrainian citizen Serhii S, who was jailed earlier this year for planning sabotage on behalf of Russia.

"The evidence obtained in this case indicated a suspicion that an organised criminal group operating in Poland engaged in recruitment and organisation of sabotage activities for foreign intelligence agencies," the spokesperson said in a statement.

"The actions of foreign intelligence agencies were aimed at generating public unrest and creating a sense of helplessness among state authorities through sabotage and subversion."

Prosecutors said that there were three Polish defendents (Kamil K, Dawid P and Lukasz K) and three Belarusians (Stepan K, Andrei B, Yaraslau S). Polish privacy laws prevent media from publishing the surnames of people charged with crimes.

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The indictment relates, among other things, to an arson attack allegedly commissioned by a foreign intelligence agency on a pallet storage facility in Marki, central Poland, in April 2024, prosecutors said.

It also relates to attempted arson at a warehouse in Gdansk in March 2024, which was allegedly commissioned by foreign intelligence, and arson attacks on a restaurant in Gdynia in 2023.

Four of the defendants were charged with acts of sabotage commissioned by foreign intelligence. The group also faced other charges related to arms trafficking, drug trafficking, and other criminal offences.

Stepan K and Dawid P pleaded not guilty, the statement said. Andrei B, Yaraslau S and Lukasz K partially pleaded guily, while Kamil K admitted to all the charges against him.

(Reporting by Alan Charlish and Anna Koper, editing by Giles Elgood)
The Polish Ministry of Defense has signed a $3.8 billion contract to upgrade the countrys 48 F-16C/D Block 52+ Viper fighters to the F-16V configuration. Polands Block 52+ jets are already some of the most advanced F-16s in Europe. This is the latest example of a staggering Polish defense spending spree that has now been going on for years, as the country works to modernize its entire armed forces, with a particular eye toward meeting threats from Russia.

Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, Polands Defense Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, announced the signing of the F-16 upgrade deal today. The state-run Wojskowe Zakady Lotnicze No. 2 S.A. (Military Aviation Works No. 2), which has a formal relationship with the manufacturer of the jets, Lockheed Martin, will perform the upgrade work.

Polish Defense Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz speaks at a ceremony today marking the signing of the F-16 upgrade contract. Polish Ministry of Defense

Over 20 years ago, our predecessors made the choice of aircraft to replace the post-Soviet equipment in the Polish Air Force. We chose the F-16, and it was a very good decision  a proven aircraft, a platform capable of extraordinary combat operations, Kosiniak-Kamysz said, according to a machine translation of a Polish-language statement put out today. The current capabilities of the F-16 C/D version are good, but after 20 years, they are insufficient to address the threats. We need to improve reconnaissance capabilities, communications, integration with the F-35  as well as the ability to operate in any domain.

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Poland is in the process of acquiring a fleet of 32 F-35A Joint Strike Fighters. The goal is for that force to reach full operational capability by the end of the decade. Lockheed Martin rolled out the first of the jets, which will be named Husarz (Hussar) in Polish service, last year. Polish pilots also began training on the F-35A in the United States in January.

The first F-35A for Poland seen at the roll-out ceremony in 2024. Lockheed Martin

The modernization will cover not only the aircraft themselves but also radar, communications, friend-or-foe reconnaissance systems, ground infrastructure, simulators, and trainers, Polands Kosiniak-Kamysz said today, but did not provide further specifics.

The U.S. government had approved the potential sale of items and services required for what was referred to as a Viper Midlife Upgrade back in October 2024. At that time, the value of the total package was estimated to be around $7.3 billion, nearly twice as much as the stated price tag on the deal announced today. It is very possible that the contract with Wojskowe Zakady Lotnicze No. 2 S.A. is just one part of what will be required to complete the upgrade program.

From what was outlined last year, the upgrades for Polands F-16s are set to most prominently include Northrop Grummans AN/APG-83 active Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR). This active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar is the centerpiece of the F-16V configuration and is also now a standard feature on new-production Block 70/72 Vipers. SABR offers important benefits compared to the mechanically-scanned AN/APG-68 radars found on Polands Vipers now. This includes being able to scan far faster, acquiring more targets and at longer ranges, as well as the ability to produce more precise and higher fidelity tracks, even when it comes to smaller and stealthier objects. The radar is also far more reliable than its predecessor and more resistant to electronic countermeasures. AESAs, in general, have secondary electronic warfare and communications potential, as well.

Polish Vipers are also in line to get new modular, open-architecture mission computers, as well as upgrades to their communications and navigation capabilities. New AN/APX-126/127 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe (AIFF) combined interrogator/transponders were listed in the Pentagons press release about the Viper Midlife Upgrade.

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A new electronic warfare package will also go into Polands modernized F-16s, though what type is not yet clear. The door was left open last year to either L3Harris AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield or Northrop Grummans AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS). In September 2024, Breaking Defense reported that the two companies were hotly competing for a Polish contract.

As Lockheed Martin has laid it out in the past, the F-16V upgrade package also includes improved datalinks and cockpit displays. Improved inoperability with the F-35 was also an important factor in the development of the V configuration. Polands Block 52+ jets already feature conformal fuel tanks, and the countrys two-seat D variants have enlarged dorsal spines, which can accommodate additional avionics, communications systems, countermeasures, and more.

One of Polands F-16Ds with its conformal fuel tanks and enlarged spine prominently visible. Polish Ministry of Defense

The Polish Ministry of Defense says the F-16 upgrade program will begin in earnest in 2028 and run through 2038.

For 20 years, F-16s have protected Polish skies, participated in foreign missions, including air policing over the Baltic states, and were sent wherever our allies needed them, Polands Kosiniak-Kamysz noted in his statement today. Poland became a member of NATO in 1999.

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The aerial threat picture facing Poland has substantially evolved in recent years in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Polish authorities are acutely aware of the risk of spillover, including from stray missiles and drones. In 2022, two civilians in Poland were killed by falling debris as Ukrainian forces worked to intercept incoming Russian threats. Polish airspace has been violated on other occasions since then.

A pair of Polish F-16s. Polish Air Force

For Poland, there is also the matter of simmering geopolitical friction with Russian ally Belarus. Tensions along the Polish-Belarusian border have flared multiple times in recent years.

Amid all of this, Poland has steadily pushed to take a greater role in NATO. This includes moves to join the alliances nuclear sharing agreements, through which select members are prepared to employ U.S. B61-series nuclear gravity bombs, if authorized.

As noted, the F-16 upgrade plan is just one part of a larger Polish modernization effort across its entire military. In recent years, the country has signed billions of dollars worth of contracts for other combat jets (including the F-35s and FA-50 light fighters from South Korea) and a massive buy of AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, as well as new main battle tanks, short-range ballistic missiles, and self-propelled artillery. On the air defense front, Poland is also planning to field a network of balloon-based early-warning sensors.

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Polands Kosiniak-Kamysz also touted the benefits that the F-16 modernization work, specifically, will bring to the countrys domestic defense industry, which has also been steadily expanding in recent years.

An F-16 at the Wojskowe Zakady Lotnicze No. 2 S.A. plant. Wojskowe Zakady Lotnicze No. 2 S.A.

This is a major investment, carried out with the states finances in mind and thanks to taxpayers, he said. Our goal is for Poland to be among the top three NATO countries in terms of operational capabilities. This modernization is a step in that direction.

Overall, Polands F-16 upgrade program represents a major commitment by the country to continue operating the Viper for the foreseeable future, even as its stealthy F-35 fleet comes online.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
In late July, officers arrested a ramming attack suspect in the area of Pardes Hanna, also at a construction site.

Police officers arrested a terror suspect at a construction site in Ra'anana on suspicion of involvement in planning an attack, Israel Police said Wednesday.

Security forces conducted searches for over an hour for the Tulkarm resident suspected of intending to carry out the attack.

He will be transferred for further investigation.

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In late July, officers arrested a ramming attack suspect in the area of Pardes Hanna, also at a construction site.

Israeli border guard captures Kfar Yona ramming attack terrorist in Pardes Hanna area, July 26, 2025. (credit: ISRAEL POLICE)

The suspect was found hiding on a crane suspended in the air, according to police. He was lowered to the ground ahead of his arrest.

Illegal West Bank residents arrested at Haifa construction site

Police arrested 18 illegal residents from Nablus and Tulkarm at a construction site in Haifa in early May.
QUEEN ANNES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  A Church Hill woman is facing charges after she allegedly tried to kidnap a child at the Queen Annes County 4-H Fair on Monday.

It all started at around 6 p.m. on Aug. 11, when deputies were alerted to an attempted kidnapping at the countys fair in Centreville, Md. Deputies quickly responded to the area, and the fairs emergency response plan was activated.

At the scene, deputies learned that Alexandra Dawson, 28, of Church Hill, allegedly tried to kidnap a young boy when bystanders and a family member intervened, preventing her from leaving before authorities arrived, according to the Queen Annes County Sheriffs Office.

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Kaitlyn Briselli, a spokesperson for the sheriffs office, told DC News Now that Dawson did not know the boy, who is under 10 years old, and that she has no relation to him.

Attendees, a family member of the child, other bystanders, and 4H Fair employees all played a role in stopping the suspects movement and ensuring the childs safety, the sheriffs office wrote in a post on social media.

Witnesses told investigators that three other people were with Dawson at the time, and deputies detained all four of them for questioning.

Child falls off apartment balcony in Prince Georges County

However, after reviewing tips and conducting interviews, investigators determined that the three other people spotted with Dawson throughout the evening had no involvement in the crime and were not with Dawson when the incident took place. Therefore, the sheriffs office released the trio without charges.

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Despite there being no confirmation of additional incidents, deputies are exercising an abundance of caution as they continue to investigate.

The quick thinking and immediate actions of childs family, community members, and fair staff, combined with the pre-coordinated safeguards and emergency response protocols established by the Sheriffs Office and the 4H Board, allowed our deputies to respond within moments, said Sheriff Gary Hofmann.

Authorities charged Dawson with kidnapping (child under 16), second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. She was held 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live.
Police have been encouraged to consider disclosing the ethnicity and nationality of suspects charged in high-profile cases, after facing mounting pressure over the details they make public.

The interim guidance from the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) aims to reduce the risk to public safety where there are high levels of misinformation about an incident.

Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said the government will want police to release these details in "most cases" in what she welcomed as a positive step.

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It comes after authorities were accused of hiding the identities of two men, reported to be Afghan asylum seekers, charged over the alleged rape of a 12-year-old in Warwickshire.

The guidance, which comes into immediate effect, forms part of a wider review of the College of Policing's professional practice for media relations.

Decisions on releasing such information will remain with police forces, with wider legal and ethical considerations also taken into account, the NPCC said.

Verifying a suspect's immigration status is up to the Home Office, not the police, it added.

Welcoming the new guidance, a Home Office spokesperson said public trust "requires transparency and consistency from the authorities that serve them".

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The public and police forces want "greater clarity on when, why and how information is released" and the "legitimate and compelling reasons it may need to be withheld", the spokesperson added.

The Home Office will authorise the release of "relevant accompanying immigration information" in future cases "where it is appropriate to do so", they said.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC last week that there needed to be "more transparency in cases" over the background of suspects.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Dame Diana, the policing minister, said deciding whether to disclose more details would be a matter for the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), but that "we want them to be as open as possible".

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She stressed that the release of any information should not prejudice a fair trial.

The NPCC said the new guidance aimed to ensure policing was more consistent, fair and transparent, as well as addressing possible mis and disinformation.

The change was in recognition of public concern and ensured police processes were "fit for purpose in an age of rapid information spread", the council added.

It was developed following consultation with CPS and Home Office, and the College of Policing will update its current authorised professional practice for media relations later this year.

Chief Constable Sir Andy Marsh, CEO at the College of Policing, said the interim guidance would "bring consistency" and that "information can be released for all ethnicities and nationalities when it meets the right criteria".

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As it stands, there is nothing in the College of Policing's guidance on media relations that prevents police giving information about the nationality, asylum status or even ethnicity of someone who has been charged.

But there is nothing that specifically mentions them either, which is why the information released to the media largely comes at the discretion of the police force. Hence the very different measures taken in recent cases.

In May, when a car ploughed into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC's winning of the Premier League title, Merseyside Police were quick to reveal that the man arrested was white and British, in order to quash rumours of a terrorist attack in the public interest.

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Conversely, the force's decision not to release information about Axel Rudakubana - the man jailed for murdering Alice Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, in Southport last summer - allowed false information to spread.

That misinformation was deemed at least partly responsible for the riots in England and Northern Ireland between 30 July and 5 August 2024.

Referring to the riots, Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, the NPCC lead for communications and media, described it as the "real-world consequences" of the information the police release into the public domain.

She said: "We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels."

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She added that "being as fair, consistent and transparent as we can will improve confidence in policing".

Merseyside Police announced the arrest of a 53-year-old white British man shortly after a car ploughed into crowds in Liverpool in May [PA Media]

In the high-profile case of the two men charged of the alleged rape of a 12-year-old in Nuneaton, Reform UK accused Warwickshire police of a cover-up after it did not reveal their immigration status.

The police said it had simply followed the official guidance given to officers which did not include sharing the ethnicity or immigration status of suspects.

The prime minister's spokesperson subsequently said police and courts were operationally independent but the principle was to be as transparent as possible.

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Recent months have seen misinformation used to conjure up passionate feelings from people from all sides of the political spectrum - in some cases being taken as fact and leading to violence and disorder.

It is hoped the new changed guidance to disclose details when necessary will go some way to stop this from happening.

But some police officers feel it will force them to reveal the race and nationality of suspects which - they say - could provoke more feelings and potentially trouble.

Ex-Met Police Chief Supt Dal Babu warned of the "unintended consequences" of the new guidance, which he said could lead to more online speculation in cases where these details are not released.

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"The danger is there will be an expectation for police to release information on every single occasion," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

"I have huge sympathy for my former police colleagues, because they're in a damned if they do, damned if they don't situation," he said.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The Oklahoma City Police Department has identified the victim in a deadly shooting that happened on August 9.

According to OKCPD, officers responded to an apartment complex near NE 6th St. and Stonewall Ave. around 4 p.m.

ORIGNAL STORY: Authorities respond to deadly shooting in Northeast OKC

Upon arrival, they found 28-year-old Devonta Mims with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to taken to a nearby hospital where he died.

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Officials say Mims was involved in an altercation with a woman when he was shot by a third person. The case will be shown to the District Attorneys Office where they will determine if charged will be filed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Actor Michael Chiklis, who played Ben Grimm / The Thing in 'Fantastic Four' (2005) and 'Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer' (2007), shared that the films were "very underrated" and he believes that critics at the time "got it wrong", according to The Hollywood Reporter. "There were a lot of people, I think, critically who got it wrong," he said of the 2005 film and its 2007 follow-up Rise of the Silver Surfer. "They really maligned our films, and they were very underrated considering... The audience very loved them. It was one of those cases where critics weren't great to those films, but the audience was, and that still remains," Chiklis said. However, he acknowledged the appreciation shown by the audience as opposed to critics, adding, "And now all these years later, people are sort of acknowledging like, hey, these films are family-friendly, fun movies... They got a lot right. They may be imperfect, but they're really good movies," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Alongside Chiklis, Fantastic Four starred Ioan Gruffudd as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Jessica Alba as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman and Chris Evans as Johnny Storm/Human Torch. Marvel revamped the characters for the 2025 film, which saw Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Joseph Quinn star as the team. About the new movie and Moss-Bachrach, who plays Ben/the Thing in the modern adaptation, Chiklis said, "I had a great experience doing them, and I just... I hope that it kills. And it seems like it's doing really well. And by the way, I really like Ebon Moss-Bachrach. He's a terrific actor, so I'm really looking forward to see what he does with... the Thing," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Michael Chiklis is best known for his roles as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Detective Vic Mackey on the FX police drama The Shield (2002-2008), for which he won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2002, and as Ben Grimm / The Thing in Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). Other notable television roles of his include bald Commissioner Tony Scali on The Commish (1991-1996), bald Dell Toledo in American Horror Story: Freak Show (2014-2015), and Nathaniel Barnes in Gotham (2015-2017). (ANI)
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A Franklin County man faces arson charges from a Monday apartment fire after police say he torched a couch.

Christopher Diaz, 19, of Chambersburg, allegedly admitted he purposefully set the couch on fire in retaliation against his roommate, according to the charges filed by Chambersburg Police.

It was just after 10:30 a.m. when emergency crews were called to the 100 block of S. Second Street for a residential fire.

Police said the Chambersburg Fire Department reported there were suspicious circumstances regarding what caused the fire. A Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal was able to determine the fire was intentional.

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According to the charges, it was learned during the investigation that a couch inside was set on fire.

A tenant reported to police that they were having issues with their roommate, Diaz. Police said they were told about a theft where Diaz allegedly stole $3,363 and how he had until Monday to return the cash or he was going to be evicted.

When Diaz was questioned, police said he confessed to stealing the cash and using a torch to set the couch on fire.

Approximately $27,000 worth of Pennsylvania Lottery tickets stolen

Police noted the apartment is joined by row homes, which were occupied at the time of the fire, putting more lives at risk.

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Diaz faces felony charges of arson, risking catastrophe, and theft.

Diaz was placed in Franklin County Jail after being arraigned in front of Magisterial District Judge Kristin Nicklas, who denied bail, with court documents citing No condition(s) can reasonably assure the safety of any person and the community.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
UPDATE:

Lanetria and Denverrose have been located safe and sound, according to Sanford Police.

PREVIOUS STORY:

The Sanford Police Department said Lenetria Dixon and her 5-year-old daughter, Denver Dixon, were last seen on August 10, 2025, in Orlando, and are considered missing and endangered.

Lenetria Dixon is considered endangered due to mental health concerns, and her daughter Denver was last seen with short hair.

They have family in Sanford, and the Sanford Police Department is handling the case.

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The clothing Lenetria and Denver were wearing at the time they were last seen is unknown.

Anyone with information about Lenetria and Denvers whereabouts is urged to contact the Sanford Police Department immediately.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Thousands of dollars worth of highly collectible Labubu figurines were recovered during a burglary investigation in San Bernardino County, authorities announced earlier this week.

In a news release, officials with the Chino Police Department said the discovery was made while searching an Upland residence of an unknown number of suspects believed to be involved in several burglaries at a local warehouse.

In all, 14 boxes of the furry little monsters, which are currently having a huge popular culture moment, worth an estimated $30,000 were recovered, police said.

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While officers were executing the search warrant, one of the suspects attempted to run, but was quickly taken into custody.

Fourteen boxes of stolen Labubu figurines worth $30,000 were recovered by Chino police. (CPD) FILE  A customer shows a new Labubu doll to media during the opening of Germanys first shop for Labubu plush dolls in Berlin, July 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, File) Diep Nguyen shows a Labubu doll to media during the opening of Germanys first shop for Labubu plush dolls in Berlin, Germany, Friday, July 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)

Evidence found at the scene reportedly indicated that the sought-after Labubu figurines were being prepped for resale and shipment to locations across the country. Investigators noted that the collectibles are often sold for high prices online.

Big Bear shop owner accused of psychedelic mushroom operation out of store

The customizable little monsters, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, are exclusively sold at Chinese-based Pop Mart online and typically cause quite a stir when new figurines are advertised, released and make their way to storefronts across the country.

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The limited versions of the furry monsters can retail for as much as $150, while a child-sized Labubu was auctioned off for $150,000, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Its not the first time thieves have gone after the collectibles.

A La Puente store had its entire stock of Labubus, worth around $7,000, stolen just last week, but the owner of One Stop Sales posted to Instagram that investigators with the L.A. County Sheriffs Department were able to recover and return the items.

As for the most recent Labubu heist, all of the valuable inventory was recovered and returned to the owners.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Police in Hillsboro are asking the publics help in identifying a suspect they believe to be involved in a recent string of thefts.

Hillsboro police are searching for the suspect in a string of thefts seen driving a white Dodge minivan, Aug. 2025. (Hillsboro Police Dept.)

Officials say the thefts were from several locations, including Elmers Restaurant, Coyotes Bar & Grill, as well as The Dugout.

Unsettling: Mystery of body parts found in Tualatin River deepens

The suspect was seen driving a white Dodge minivan with Oregon license plates.

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Anyone with further information about the suspect or these incidents is encouraged to contact Hillsboro police.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Police are looking to identify a man accused of shoplifting at an Oklahoma City Ulta store.

According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, there have been two separate instances of shoplifting at an Ulta store near Memorial and Penn.

Police seek to identify woman in theft investigation

OKCPD look for information regarding man shoplifting at Ulta on two different occasions. Image courtesy, the Oklahoma City Police Department.

OKCPD look for information regarding man shoplifting at Ulta on two different occasions. Image courtesy, the Oklahoma City Police Department.

OKCPD look for information regarding man shoplifting at Ulta on two different occasions. Image courtesy, the Oklahoma City Police Department.

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OKCPD look for information regarding man shoplifting at Ulta on two different occasions. Image courtesy, the Oklahoma City Police Department.

If you recognize this man or have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 405-235-7300 or go to okccrimetips.com if you wish to remain anonymous. Police say a cash reward is 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
TUPPER LAKE  Staffing shortages have left the Tupper Lake Village Police unable to provide a school resource officer for the Tupper Lake Central School District. Last year, the district had one sworn police officer stationed between its two school buildings during regular hours through a services contract paid by the district.

TLCSD Superintendent Jaycee Welsh said the district is in the process of lining up interviews to fill the position in-house, though much remains unknown at this time.

There was a recent resignation within the department so they dont have enough staff to be able to supply us with one, she said. This might be temporary or permanent, were just not sure. We need to see what the applicant pool looks like.

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Tupper Lake Village Mayor Mary Fontana said that since the resignation of Officer Zachery Rottier, effective May 18, the village has been unable to get the staffing levels back to where they can contract with the district for the role. Rottier left to take a position with the village of Potsdam Police Department. Fontana said the village continues to search for someone to fill the job, but until then, it doesnt have enough staff to offer the service to the district.

Welsh said the first round of interviews will be handled by district staff before potentially inviting Tupper Lake community members to play a role in the search process.

Were about to have some interviews in the next couple of weeks, she said. Well see where the first round goes. Were looking to do a round two with community participation, where community members would turn in questions and then they would observe the second round interview, and then they would submit feedback in writing.

Since the person who ultimately fills the position will then be a school employee, as opposed to being directly employed by a law enforcement agency, Welsh said TLCSD had to adopt a use-of-force district policy for the authorized carrying of firearms, something the school board did at its August meeting on Aug. 4.

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The policy stipulates that the employee must be properly trained and certified to carry a firearm and will have to perform the qualifications, at a minimum, on an annual basis with a state-certified range instructor in accordance state law.

The training shall, at a minimum, be consistent with the 50-round New York State Division of Criminal Justice qualification course of fire for active duty police officers. (AKA HR-218 or LEOSA training). A passing score of 70% with factory ammunition is required, the policy states.

The policy adds that the only firearm and ammunition the employee will be allowed to bring on to TLCSD property is that which they are currently approved and qualified to carry. Furthermore, the firearm and ammunition must always be stored on their person, with the firearm to remain secured in a district-approved safety retention holder to only be displayed or removed if it is required for the school safety officers duty in accordance with state law governing the justifiable use of physical force in defense of a person.

When the school safety officer is off-duty, the policy adds that the firearm and ammunition cannot be kept on school property unless the firearm and ammunition is stored in an appropriate locked safe with the Superintendents prior approval.

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The firearms routine cleaning and maintenance must be performed off of school grounds, and the policy adds that the employee is to meet with local, county and state law enforcement on a regular basis to review building and premises familiarization, as well as with the TLCSD superintendent to review the firearm possession and related procedures. The school resource officer must also give an annual presentation to district staff members about various emergency procedures, including shelter-in-place, evacuation, lockout and lockdown, and situations, such as active shooter awareness training.

Welsh said, as is the case with its other policies, TLCSD received guidance and assistance from the New York State School Boards Association in developing the policy, which was informed by other school districts that employ in-house school safety officers. As far as the cost, Welsh said its a wash when compared to what the district was contracting with the TLPD for a provided school resource officer.

Its about the same, she said. We will have to pay benefits whereas before, the village paid benefits but then we had to pay a different salary range because they were employed by the village PD.

TLCSDs policy on the use of force and authorized carrying of firearms can be viewed in its entirety at tinyurl.com/yb2a3xdn.
As students head back to school across the region, some police departments are urging parents to be careful about posting back-to-school photos.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The Englewood Police Department posted some safety tips on social media for the popular back-to-school photos.

TRENDING STORIES:

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They issued this advice:

Dont share your childs school or teachers name - a simple internet search can reveal the physical location of where to pick up your child each school day

Dont post your childs full name or birthday

Dont share their favorites - this information can be used by predators to gain your childs trust or pretend to be friends of the family

Make sure to hide logos of the school or location - can easily be blurred or removed on most smartphones; always check photo backgrounds to make sure you arent accidentally snapping location identifiers, logos, or other childrens images who may not consent to be posted online

Turn off location services - this will prevent your childs location from being recorded as part of the photos data

The department added that people should pause before they post, keep it simple, and dont over-share their photos.

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The dispute over the political future of the Pacific archipelago of New Caledonia is coming to a head more than a year after a wave of violent unrest swept across the French overseas territory.

The separatists of the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) announced on Wednesday that they have rejected a recent agreement they signed with Paris on a new status for the territory.

French Minister of the Overseas Manuel Valls has announced that he will travel to New Caledonia next week for consultations.

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In mid-July, after years of failed negotiations, the government in Paris and loyalists and separatists from New Caledonia reached a deal.

This provides for a separate state for New Caledonia  but within the French state. Under the deal, there would also be a New Caledonian nationality, and local officials would be given more powers.

However, security, defence and justice would continue to be controlled by Paris.

Valls described the agreement at the time as "historic.@ Representatives of the separatists signed it, but did not consider that to be a binding commitment.

After internal consultations, the separatists have now rejected the deal, saying it does not further their goal of independence.

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It is unclear whether Valls will be able to change the separatists' minds. Last year, 14 people died in serious unrest in New Caledonia over a controversial electoral reform.

The territory is important to Paris for geopolitical and military reasons and because of its nickel deposits. France took possession of it in 1852. It now has a population of around 270,000, and gained extensive autonomy under the 1998 Noumea Accord.

In three referendums, held in 2018, 2020 and 2021, the inhabitants of the islands voted to remain part of France.

The independence movement boycotted the last vote and does not accept the result. The Kanak people, New Caledonia's Indigenous population, have long hoped for their own state.
The Brief

Governor Greg Abbott will call a second special session if the current one ends without a redistricting map.

Texas House Democrats are in Illinois, preventing a quorum and blocking legislation, including bills related to flood relief.

The Senate has passed its redistricting map and several flood-related bills, but the measures are stalled in the House.

Governor Greg Abbott said he will immediately call a second special session if the current session ends Friday, as expected, without a redistricting map.

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On Tuesday, Senate Republicans passed their map despite a democratic walkout in their chamber, but over in the house nothing is happening while Democrats remain out of state in protest.

What we know

A new day but the same gridlock in the Texas house due to the Democratic quorum break over redistricting.

Republicans were planning to take up flood response legislation.

The Senate operated as normal, passing multiple bills in response to the July 4 flood disaster in Central Texas, including Senate Bill 2. The bill dedicates 50 million dollars in state funding to install outdoor sirens in flood-prone counties that were included in the governors disaster declaration. It would also fund new flood gauges.

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"I think it was a need to reinforce what can't happen if the public turns us off (alerts) at night or doesn't have it, or the campers are too young, because the obvious focus is you've got to get people to higher ground," said State Senator Paul Bettencourt.

SB 1 & SB 3

Dig deeper

Senate Bill 1 also cleared the senate. It would create new policies for disaster response preparedness.

"It will save lives today. And it didn't cost a dime to do it," said State Senator Charles Perry.

Senate Bill 3 appropriates $20 million to create a swift water training facility.

None of these bills are controversial, but Democrats complain that Republicans deliberately stacked them behind redistricting as a coercive tactic.

What they're saying

FOX 4s Steven Dial spoke to Collin County State Rep. Mihaela Plesa, who is in Illinois to break quorum.

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"Democrats have been holding the line strong on this issue, and we're not running away from anything. We're actually taking the fight to the bad guys. We're trying to bring attention to what's been going on," said Rep. Plesa.

Plesa was asked about her response to Democrats blocking legislation from other bills on the agenda.

"My response is that we're actually not blocking this legislation, we're actually putting it at the forefront. And it's because Texas Democrats are making such a big deal about the fact that Republicans in the house have put flood victims on the back burner that now they're focusing on these issues," she said.

Redistricting

Local perspective

When the redistricting map came up for a vote in the senate, nine Democratic senators walked out.

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"Democrats, when they are in control of the White House, don't tell Democratic states so they can withstand the rage of voters for failing policies and bad leadership," said Dallas County Senator Nathan Johnson.

The bill passed on a party-line vote.

"The map is legal in respect to all applicable law," said State Senator Phil King.

What's next

Burrows sent house members home and told them to return on Friday. If there is no quorum on Friday, they will end the special session, and Gov. Abbott will call a second special session. He says with the same agenda.

The Source

Information in this article was provided by FOX 4's Steven Dial.
Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) participates in last years's Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's legislative conference, when she was still Prince George's County executive. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters)

Shes only seven months into the job, but U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md). has been tapped to help lead the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations annual conference next month in Washington, D.C.

Alsobrooks will join four-term Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.) as co-chair of the Sept. 24-28 legislative conference with the theme, Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, and Progress. Thousands of elected officials, community leaders and activists are expected to converge on the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for sessions on health, education, economic prosperity and more.

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There are a record 62 caucus members in this Congress, representing most of the 67 Black legislators on Capitol Hill. The other five are Republicans who do not belong to the caucus: Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina and Reps. Byron Donalds of Florida, Wesley Hunt of Texas, John James of Michigan and Burgess Owens of Utah

Alsobrooks made history in January when she was sworn in with fellow freshman Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), the first time two Black women had been elected to the Senate at the same time.

Neguse, first elected in 2018, has risen in House Democratic leadership ranks, serving as an impeachment manager in 2021 in the second impeachment trial of President Donald Trump. He was elected last year as the assistant Democratic leader and in January he was elected ranking member of House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands.

We are in a defining moment for Black America  one where our collective power, civic engagement and policy influence are shaping the future of this nation, Nicole Austin-Hillery, president and CEO of the foundation, said in a statement. With leaders like Senator Alsobrooks and Congressman Neguse helping guide this years conference, we are poised to deliver one of the most impactful gatherings to date.

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Signature events at the conference include a national town hall, a prayer breakfast and the Phoenix Awards Dinner, which was headlined last year by former Vice President Kamala Harris, then the Democrats presidential nominee.

The caucus main goal: Amplify voices and issues that most affect the Black community. Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-Ala.), chair of the foundations board of directors, called it a vital opportunity to come together, share ideas, and shape policies that move our communities forward.

By gathering leaders, advocates, and innovators from across the nation, we spark conversations and actions that advance equity, celebrate our culture, and strengthen Black leadership for generations to come, Sewell said.

List of Annapolis City Council hopefuls set  and its a long one

The Annapolis Board of Supervisors of Elections has certified 21 city council candidates, and 16 of them showed up at First Baptist Church of Annapolis for a candidate forum Tuesday, a little more than a month before the Sept. 16 primary.

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The two-hour forum was hosted by the Caucus of African American Leaders. Candidates in Wards 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 participated in the forum.

Ward 1 Alderman Harry Huntley (D) is seeking reelection but faces challenges from Democrats Ben Bramsen, Ron Gunzburger, Kathleen McDermott and Genevieve Torri. The nominee will face unaffiliated candidate Thomas Kriek in the Nov. 4 general election.

After the candidates introductory remarks, each was asked about plans to redevelop the City Dock, and what their criteria would be for a proposal to allow certain structures on Dock Street to exceed a height limit by 7 feet. All the candidates said they want to preserve the historic downtown area, with several saying they dont support spot zoning.

Torri said she didnt like the culture that were hearing tonight, how its residents versus businesses, and businesses are bad, and residents may be mad.

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I dont think that benefits our city at all, she said. We are all a community. We all need to work together, and we need to find the solutions.

Candidates were asked to raise their hands if they would retain Annapolis Police Chief Edward Jackson, who got a vote of confidence from the caucus last year. About five candidates raised their hands. Gunzburger, who wanted to respond to the question about the chief but wasnt allowed due to time constraints, quickly said, I support the men and women of the rank and file.

All candidates were asked the police chief question, but other questions were more random, ranging from financial literacy programs to affordable housing and efforts to support minority businesses.

Keanuu Smith-Brown gives remarks during an Aug. 12 candidates forum. Smith-Brown was one of nine candidates who participated in the forum among those running for Annapolis City Council. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters)

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Ward 2 Alderwoman Karma ONeill (D) doesnt have a primary opponent, but will face Republican Kenneth Vincent in the general election.

The Ward 3 seat is open, after incumbent Rhonda Pindell Charles decision to run for mayor to replace Mayor Gavin Buckley (D) who is term-limited. Democrats Deborah Debbie Odum and Keanuu Smith-Brown will square off in the primary, with winner to face unaffiliated voter Mike Dye in the general election for the Ward 3 seat.

The Ward 4 seat is also open, after Alderman Sheila M. Finlaysons (D) decision not to seek reelection. The Democratic primary between Janice Elaine Allsup-Johnson and Coren Makell  there is currently no opponent filed in the general election. Makell attended Tuesdays forum.

In Ward 6, Democrats Diesha Contee and Craig Cussimanio square off in the primary for the chance to face Republican George Gallagher in the race to succeed Alderman DeJuan Gay, who is not running for reelection. Gallagher did not participate in Tuesdays forum.

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One more open seat  Ward 8 Alderman Ross H. Arnett III is not seeking reelection  drew Democrat Frank Thorp ad unaffiliated voter Will Cunha, who fill face each other in the general election.

Candidate for Wards 5 and 7 did not attend the forum. Ward 5 Alderman Brooks Schandelmeier will face Republican Jack Papaleonti in the general election, and Ward 7 Alderman Robert Savidge is running unopposed.

Before the forum ended, Carl Snowden, convener of the caucus, announced a mayoral debate will take place at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 10, at the Boys and Girls Club of Annapolis. Besides Pindell Charles, Democrat Jared Littmann and Republican Robert OShea are scheduled to participate in that event.
Award-winning documentary 'Turtle Walker', directed by Taira Malaney, is all set to be screened at the 17th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) 2025. Excited about the film's premiere, Taira, in a press note, said, "I have been waiting for the day we premiere Turtle Walker in India, and the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala feels just so apt for our very first screening. Satish grew up on Vypin Island, Kochi. This is where he discovered a fascination for the sea as a young child, and where giant leatherback turtles were once found to nest. We look forward to bringing this deeply personal story of wonder and resilience to audiences across India." 'Turtle Walker' follows the story of Satish Bhaskar, a sea turtle conservationist who spent decades studying and protecting endangered turtles along India's coast and islands. Starting in the late 1970s, Bhaskar travelled across remote areas to document turtle nesting sites and understand their behaviour. His efforts helped bring attention to marine life conservation in India. The film had its world premiere at the Doc NYC festival in 2024 and has since won several awards, including the Grand Teton Award at the Jackson Wild Media Awards -- one of the highest honours in nature filmmaking. It also received recognition at other international festivals such as the Blue Water Film Festival, the International Ocean Film Festival, and Santiago Wild. The documentary film 'Turtle Walker' is co-produced by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti's production company, Tiger Baby, along with Emaho Films. "Turtle Walker is a story of an extraordinary man, Satish Bhaskar, and his quiet devotion to sea turtle conservation. It's especially meaningful to have the film's India premiere at IDSFFK - a festival that truly values powerful, purpose-driven storytelling," said Zoya Akhtar. (ANI)
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Just one day after the passing of former Arkansas State Senator and former University of Central Arkansas President Lu Hardin, he was honored at the State Capitol.

Memorial portraits and a commemorative plaque were unveiled outside the Senate chambers, recognizing a life dedicated to public service, education, and leadership.

Arkansas public figure Lu Hardin dead at 73

Among those reflecting on Hardins impact was longtime Arkansas political strategist Bill Vickery, who first met Hardin during his 1995 U.S. Senate campaign. Vickery described Hardin as a rare political figureboth a servant leader and a genuinely kind person, qualities he said left a lasting impression on those who knew Hardin.

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Lu Hardin is one of the few people in politics thats actually worth it to work for, Vickery said. He was unfailingly nice in every situationtremendous class in victory and defeat, a real servants heart.

Hardin, a Democrat, gained political momentum in the 1995 Senate primary, ultimately finishing second to then-Attorney General Winston Bryant. Vickery recalled the intensity and optimism of those early campaign days, noting Hardins focus, dedication and ability to inspire those around him.

Lu and I would spend nights dreaming up the next days strategy, Vickery said. Even under pressure, he made it fun. He was honest, focused and never let the weight of the campaign get to him.

Hardins legislative work placed a strong emphasis on improving education in Arkansas, a passion he carried with him throughout his careerincluding during his tenure as President of UCA, where the university saw significant growth.

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UCA really began to take off when Lu took over, Vickery added. His commitment to higher education helped mold UCA into what it is today.

Despite a later blemish on his recordHardin pleaded guilty in 2009 to fabricating memos in a scheme to secure hundreds of thousands in bonuses from UCAs Board of TrusteesVickery emphasized that Hardins overall legacy should be measured by the decades of positive impact he had on students, constituents and institutions across Arkansas.

People will never know how much Lu worried, focused and sacrificed simply because he wanted to do the best job he could for the people he served, Vickery said. When you look at Lus life and the overwhelming amount of good that he did, thats something we should all aspire to.

Arkansas lawmakers remember former U.S. Rep. Marion Berry

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As news of Hardins death spread, Vickery said he was struck by the outpouring of emotion and memories from people whose lives were touched by Hardins work and presence.

He leaves an indelible marknot just on the Capitol walls, but on the people of Arkansas, Vickery said.

Attempts to reach Hardins family for comment on this story were unsuccessful, but Vickery believes the full measure of his friends legacy lives on through the lives and institutions he helped shape.

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NEW YORK (PIX11)  FDU politics professor Dan Cassino joins PIX11 Morning News to discuss whether President Donald Trump could deploy the National Guard in New York City.

Watch the video player for the full interview.

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President Donald Trumps plans of a federal takeover in Washington, D.C., may not be as popular as he expects, according to a new poll.

A YouGov poll, released on Monday just hours after Trump announced that he is taking over the D.C. police department and activating the National Guard into the city, found that U.S. adults are conflicted over the unprecedented moves.

When asked if they approved or disapproved of putting D.C. police under federal control and the deployment of troops, the number of respondents who strongly disapproved was recorded at the highest, with 38%. In a distant second, 21% said they strongly approve of Trumps actions, while 20% said they are unsure.

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Per the poll, adults who somewhat approve trail far behind, with 13%, and 9% claimed that they somewhat disapprove.

Meanwhile, respondents were more unified when pressed about how big of a problem, if any, crime is in major U.S. cities. Sixty-seven percent believe it is a major problem, while 23% argued that crime is a minor problem, 3% do not think it is a problem in general, and 6% are not sure.

While mixed, the most number of adults also claim that crime rates in cities have increased by a large margin since 2020, recording 37%. Eighteen percent said they have increased by a little, 15% believe they have remained steady and 13% think they have decreased by a little amount.

In what he framed as Liberation Day, Trump, who was flanked by top administration officials, invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to place the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control. He said that the National Guard is also needed to help reestablish law, order and public safety.

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The decision comes as he has frequently criticized Democratic-led cities, including D.C., for their crime rates and leadership. During his remarks to reporters, he also suggested that other U.S. cities could be targeted next, including New York City, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago.

D.C. lawmakers have stressed, however, that crime levels have started to drop. In early January, federal officials reported that total violent crime for 2024 reached a 30-year low. Since then, data released by the Metropolitan Police Department shows that the rate has plummeted by 26%.

The poll surveyed 3,180 U.S. adults.

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Molly Coleman has won the special election for the Ward 4 seat on the St. Paul City Council.

In unofficial results late Tuesday night, Coleman had more than 52% of the vote, with all 13 precincts reporting. Since she has more than half of the vote, there wont be a reallocation process under St. Pauls ranked-choice voting system.

It makes it so clear that St. Paul Ward 4 is ready for progressive leadership, is ready for serious solutions to big challenges, is committed to building a city where every single person can thrive, Coleman said of the election results.

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It has been such a positive, forward-focused race, and I really want to say that every single person who put their hat into the ring contributed so much to our city, just through the conversations and the ideas that were brought forward, she later added.

Coleman is the founder of the progressive court reform nonprofit Peoples Parity Project and daughter of former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. She will represent Ward 4 through the November 2028 election.

Coleman is set to join the council later this month. She will take her seat as the city faces what will likely be a challenging budget year amid declining property values and federal cuts.

Ward 4 is in northwestern St. Paul and includes all or part of five neighborhoods: Hamline-Midway, Merriam Park, St. Anthony Park, and parts of Macalester-Groveland and Como.

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Former city council member Mitra Jalali vacated the seat in March. Mayor Melvin Carter appointed Matt Privratsky to fill the seat until the special election.

The race was nonpartisan, and the St. Paul Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party did not make any endorsements this summer.

Other candidates in the race were Carolyn Will, who had more than 21% of the vote; Cole Hanson, who got more than 18%; and Chauntyll Allen, who had 9%.

Under St. Pauls ranked-choice voting system, voters were able to rank candidates in order of preference. There was no primary election.

At the polls

Residents at the polls Tuesday named a variety of local issues on their minds this year, including affordable housing, bike lanes, road quality and property taxes.

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Como resident Jeanne Baumann said she wanted more affordable accommodations for unhoused people in the city instead of giant apartment buildings that they cant afford.

Hamline-Midway resident Annie Kuhn said she was concerned with rising housing costs and property taxes when ranking candidates.

My one kid is probably going to be able to buy a house; the other one probably never, ever will, Kuhn said. Its just ridiculous that housing costs have spiraled so much.

Val Woelfel, who has lived in the Hamline-Midway neighborhood for 30 years, said one of her voting priorities was city development issues, such as the vacant CVS on the corner of Snelling and University avenues sucking the energy out of the neighborhood.

Bike lanes, road quality

Como resident Karen Lenander said she prioritized candidates who opposed cutting down trees in historic neighborhoods to create more bike paths.

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Como resident Gary Grave agreed, saying city bike paths are used four months out of the year and then block traffic.

Merriam Park resident Dylan Brooks said road quality was a top issue.

City council can help increase patrolling for police, then also they control how road maintenance is managed, Brooks said. So those are kind of the two biggest things that I looked at.

Compromise, getting things done

Merriam Park resident Jeff Fugina said he wants a moderate viewpoint to the council, which he believes has drifted way to one side in recent years.

Hamline-Midway resident Eric Gustafson said he didnt feel like the policy positions of the four candidates were vastly different, and he voted for candidates he thought best understood the slow process of implementing new policy.

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If I was looking at one thing or another, it was how I thought they would work to get things done, he said.

Kathryn Kovalenko contributed to this story.

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A two-day festival that has been known to sell out in six days and often has a longer waiting list for tickets than tickets that are sold is coming to Connecticut for its first time ever.

Panda Fest, known in New York City as Dragon Fest, is where it all began three years ago, and its coming to Hartford, said founder and CEO BiuBiu Xu.

Its about Asian street food, stage performances and merchandise, much of it handcrafted.

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We represent our community and culture, said Xu, who is originally from China.

Jeannette Dardenne of INgroup Creative, the public relations firm instrumental in getting Panda Fest to Hartford, said she loves that it brings cultural diversity to the city.

We have an emerging Asian population and this is wonderful for Hartford have such a respected cultural event, she said.

This year the company has with resounding success expanded its fest reach to Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis and more, including Hartford. Xu said they had 50,000 attend in Atlanta, 60,000 in Minneapolis over the two days.

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Every city we have a long wait list, sometimes more than attend, Xu said.

The cultures represented at the festival include Japan, Thailand, Korea, China.

There will be more than 100 street food dishes from over 55 vendors serving everything from Samsa to skewers, including giant squid, Takoyaki, noodles, fried dumplings, BBQ, and Tanghulu.

A lineup of performances will feature K-pop, Thai dance, Chinese acrobatics and live music.

There will be Panda-themed fun all around, including a huge panda-themed inflatable for photos.

She said the fest presents unforgettable experience that connects culture, cuisine and community in the heart of Connecticut.

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A general admission ticket includes two free gifts: a custom Panda pin featuring a Connecticut twist and a stylish hand fan.

The festival in Connecticut is Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The event will be held at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, 300 Columbus Boulevard.

Tickets will go on sale Sept. 14 and can be purchased at: https://www.pandafests.com/.

General admission is $14 and VIP admission is $25 and includes fast entry and a third exclusive gift, an event tote.
DENVER (KDVR)  A man was killed in a crash involving a small aircraft and powerlines in Berthoud on Wednesday morning.

Around 8:40 a.m., multiple agencies responded to the scene of the crash in the 3600 block of West Colorado Road 2. The Larimer County Sheriffs Office said first responders found downed power lines and an ultralight glider that had crashed and caught fire.

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Firefighters extinguished the flames, which only impacted the glider, and found a man from Boulder dead inside. He was the only occupant.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the glider likely hit the power lines before it came to a rest on the dirt road. SkyFOX flew over wreckage, and FOX31s Carly Moore was on the scene where several downed power lines had fallen onto the street and a glider was covered in a white sheet.

Another aircraft was nearby in a field and appeared to be unscathed.

Aircraft crash in Berthoud (SkyFox) Aircraft crash in Berthoud (SkyFox) Aircraft crash in Berthoud (SkyFox) Aircraft crash in Berthoud (SkyFox) Aircraft crash in Berthoud (SkyFox)

What caused the crash is still under investigation. The sheriffs office said the Federal Aviation Administration was notified about the fire, but due to the type of glider, it was determined that the Larimer County Sheriffs Office would lead the investigation.

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The identity of the man who died is not yet being released. His name will be released at a later time by the Larimer County Coroners Office, along with his official cause and manner of death.

There were no other injuries or property damage reported.

The sheriffs office said several power lines were impacted and caused outages for about 55 Poudre Valley REA members. Poudre Valley REA crews responded and quickly restored electricity to all but three homes, and stayed on the scene to ensure the safety of other crews.

Rio Blanco County wildfire updates: Lee Fire hits Garfield County line, prompts evacuations

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Losing someone you care about is never easy, but a sudden loss like this is especially tough, said Larimer County Sgt. Justin Williamson. Well keep this mans family and our wider aviation community in our thoughts during the difficult days to come.

Investigators are still asking for anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken with law enforcement to contact Investigator Stephen Gates at 970-498-5169.

These are never calls that we want to hear about, but our investigators are committed to coming out (with) answers for those who are involved, Larimer County Sheriffs Office Public Information Officer Kate Kimball said. We do have a very active gliding and flying community here in northern Colorado, and we want to make sure that we get the information for them, as well as if they know what happened and we can just get some answers.

The Larimer County Sheriffs Office, Berthoud Fire Protection District, and Thompson Valley EMS all responded to the crash.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Bruce Elementary, Central High School and Bellevue Middle School will dismiss early due to a power outage, Memphis-Shelby County Schools said Wednesday afternoon.

MSCS says all three schools dismissed students at 1:30 p.m., and all afterschool programs and YCare services are cancelled for today.

DeSoto County school bus driver arrested on duty

An accident involving a vehicle that hit a utility pole near the three Midtown campuses is believed to have caused the power outage Memphis, Light, Gas and Water says.

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MSCS said in a statement that MLGW has not provided an estimated time of power restoration yet, and that they are actively monitoring the situation.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Thursday dismissed South Korean claims that the North is removing some of its loudspeakers along the inter-Korean border, mocking the government in Seoul for clinging to hopes of renewed diplomacy between the war-divided rivals.

South Koreas military said over the weekend that it had detected the North removing some of its loudspeakers, days after the South dismantled its own front-line speakers used for anti-North propaganda broadcasts in a bid to ease tensions.

Kim Yo Jong reiterated previous North Korean statements that it has no immediate interest in reviving long-stalled negotiations with Washington and Seoul, citing an upcoming joint military exercise between the allies as proof of their continued hostility toward Pyongyang.

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South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff did not disclose where it spotted the North removing some of its speakers. The North Korean speakers that have been visible from civilian-accessible border areas in the South were still seen by Associated Press photojournalists after the militarys announcement.

During a Cabinet meeting Tuesday, South Koreas new liberal President Lee Jae Myung described the Norths alleged steps as a reciprocal measure and expressed hope the Koreas could gradually reopen dialogue and communication.

Kim accused Lees government of misleading the public, saying that North Koreans have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them.

When asked about Kims comments, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Col. Lee Sung Joon, maintained that the Souths military had confirmed the removal of some North Korean speakers and cautioned against being easily swayed by North Korean statements with political intent.

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It has always been the case that North Korea often makes claims that arent true, he said.

South Koreas Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, said in a statement that Seoul will continue to pursue sustained steps to improve relations but acknowledged that the process will require patience.

No interest in talks with the US

Kim Yo Jong also dismissed South Korean media speculation that the North may use this weeks planned meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump to convey a message to Washington via Moscow.

"Why should we send a message to the U.S. side," she said, adding that the North has no interest in talks with the Americans.

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Since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, North Korea has made Russia the priority of its foreign policy and has sent thousands of troops and large supplies of military equipment, including artillery and missiles, to help fuel Russias war.

North Korean and Russian state media said Wednesday that Kim Jong Un and Putin held a phone call to discuss their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine.

Russias TASS news agency said Putin also shared with Kim information about his upcoming talks with Trump in Alaska on Friday, but the North Korean reports did not mention the Trump meeting.

Kim Yo Jong had also released statements in July dismissing Washington and Seouls stated desires to restart diplomacy aimed at defusing the Norths nuclear program, which derailed in 2019 following a collapsed summit between her brother and Trump during his first term.

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In recent months, South Korean border residents have complained that North Korean speakers blasted irritating sounds, including howling animals and pounding gongs, in a tit-for-tat response to South Korean propaganda broadcasts.

The South Korean military said the North stopped its broadcasts in June, after Lee ordered to halt Souths broadcasts in his governments first concrete step toward easing tensions between the war-divided rivals.

The South's military began removing its speakers from border areas last week but did not say if they would be redeployed if tensions flared again.

The issue of loudspeakers

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North Korea, extremely sensitive to any outside criticism of its authoritarian leadership and its third-generation ruler, had seen South Koreas anti-Pyongyang propaganda broadcasts as a major provocation.

The South's previous conservative government resumed daily loudspeaker broadcasts in June last year, following a yearslong pause, in retaliation for North Korea flying trash-laden balloons toward the South.

The speakers blasted propaganda messages and K-pop songs, a playlist designed to strike a nerve in Pyongyang, where Kim Jong Un has been pushing to eliminate the influence of South Korean pop culture and language among the population, in part of attempts to strengthen his familys dynastic rule.

The psychological warfare campaigns further heightened tensions already inflamed by North Koreas advancing nuclear program and South Korean efforts to expand joint military exercises with the United States and their trilateral security cooperation with Japan.

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Lee, who took office in June after winning an early election to replace ousted conservative Yoon Suk Yeol, wants to improve relations with Pyongyang, which reacted furiously to Yoons hard-line policies.

Experts, however, say the North clearly feels no urgency to resume diplomacy with South Korea and the U.S. anytime soon and remains focused on its alignment with Russia.

Tensions on the peninsula could rise later this month with the large-scale annual combined U.S.-South Korean military exercises that start Aug. 18.

North Korea portrays the joint drills as invasion rehearsals and often uses them as a pretext for military demonstrations and weapons tests to advance its nuclear program.
DUPAGE COUNTY, Ill.  Pre-trial release has been denied for a Batavia man accused in a DUI crash in the western suburbs that unfolded while he was allegedly fleeing from police after a separate hit-and-run.

Michael J. Fox, a 28-year-old Batavia resident, has been charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding and one count of aggravated DUI, DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin announced Wednesday.

The charges stem from Foxs alleged involvement in two crashes and a chase that unfolded in West Chicago and Warrenville on Monday afternoon.

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According to prosecutors, it all began around 5 p.m. when officers with the Warrenville Police Department were called to the scene of a hit-and-run crash near Route 59 and Joliet Street in West Chicago.

Woman accused of hitting victim with car on Far South Side facing attempted murder charge

As they made their way to the scene, one of the responding officers spotted the vehicle believed to have been involved in the crash and attempted a traffic stop.

After the officer activated his lights, the driver, who was later determined to be Fox, stopped at Williams Road and Butterfield Road, but prosecutors said that as the officer approached, Fox allegedly drove away along Butterfield Road.

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Prosecutors said the officer followed Fox with his emergency lights activated, at times reaching speeds around 70 MPH.

Photo provided by DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin shows 28-year-old Michael J. Fox, who has been charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding and one count of aggravated DUI.

As Fox and the officer approached the intersection of Route 59 and Butterfield Road in Warrenville, prosecutors said Fox allegedly disobeyed a red light at the intersection and crashed into a Honda CRV occupied by two people.

Man killed in early-morning North Side shooting

Following the crash, Fox was taken into custody, but during his arrest, officers noticed an odor of alcohol about him and said his eyes were bloodshot and glassy. Additionally, officers allegedly spotted a bottle of alcohol in the drivers side of the vehicle.

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Prosecutors say a breathalyzer later indicated that Foxs BAC was 0.267 at the time of the crash, over three times the legal limit.

The occupants of the CRV suffered minor injuries in the crash and were later hospitalized.

Illinois law requires that when you are involved in a traffic accident, you must remain at the scene until authorities arrive, Berlin said. The allegations that instead of stopping, Mr. Fox ignored the law and fled the scene, only to then lead police on a high-speed chase are shocking. To make matters worse, it is alleged that Mr. Fox then crashed into a second vehicle, sending two innocent people to the hospital and was later found to have a BAC of .267, more than three times the legal limit.

Victim pulled from Lake Michigan on North Side dies

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In addition to the felony charges, Fox was also charged with multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses, including DUI, reckless driving, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and transportation of open alcohol by driver.



Fox is set to return to court on Sept. 8.



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Precision policing: Gwinnett police chief touts high-tech camera system, seeks more funds for it

Gwinnett Countys police chief is seeking more funding to enhance the countys high-tech camera system, which is increasingly relied upon for law enforcement.

Chief J.D. McClure of the Gwinnett County Police Department has requested more than $420,000 in the next years budget to hire four more crime analysts.

The request comes as the countys Situational Awareness and Crime Response Center experiences a 45% increase in calls this year.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The camera system integrates more than 13,000 cameras from businesses, neighborhoods and county resources.

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The SACRC has really helped us in what I call precision policing, McClure said. The camera system can help police catch suspects in seconds.

McClure also highlighted the importance of the system in preventing wrongful stops, which can damage community trust.

When we talk about building positive community relations, those type of occurrences dont help you, he told Channel 2 Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson.

The request for additional funding aims to increase the number of crime analysts on each shift from three to four, thereby improving the centers ability to respond to the rising demand for analytical services.

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Last year, the center helped find 82 stolen vehicles, contributed to more than 250 arrests and found 12 missing people, police said.

As budget proposals for 2026 are underway, with first proposals expected in November, McClure noted the progress that has been made.

Im a 30-year veteran of Gwinnett County, and we are better equipped today than we have ever been in my entire career, he said.

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Responding to queries from the Opposition regarding the recent incident in Fatehpur in the state Assembly, Uttar Pradesh Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna on Tuesday dismissed claims of government's involvement as baseless, asserting that law and order is the top priority and those taking the law into their hands will face strict action. Answering a question by the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in UP Assembly, Mata Prasad Pandey, UP Finance Minister Suresh Khanna denied any role of the government or its machinery in the Fatehpur incident. He said an FIR was lodged on August 11 at Kotwali police station against 10 named and 150 unidentified accused under serious IPC sections, the Criminal Law Amendment Act, and the Public Property Damage Prevention Act. The sections include 190, 191(2), 191(3), 301, 196 and also under the Criminal Law Amendment Act-7 and Sections 2 and 3 of the Public Property Damage Prevention Act. Khanna stressed that the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness and no accused will be spared. Khanna said the FIR proves the government is doing its job and that anyone taking the law into their own hands will be punished through due process. Maintaining law and order is the government's top priority, and no anarchy will be tolerated. He accused the Opposition of giving a political colour to the incident, noting that police acted promptly and initiated legal proceedings without delay. In view of the seriousness of the Fatehpur incident, the Yogi government has clarified that Hindu leaders pressuring the police have no influence over its actions. Committed to maintaining peace and law and order, the state has deployed forces from 10 police stations, two PAC companies, and the full administrative team to the area. An FIR has been lodged against 160 people, including 10 named accused, and dialogue is underway with both sides. The government has stated that once calm is restored, strict action will follow. (ANI)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The Trump Administration could consider reclassifying marijuana to a less serious schedule drug, which some Tennessee Republican lawmakers have said would need to happen before they consider legalizing medical marijuana in the state.

Right now, marijuana is a Schedule I drug, the category of drugs with the highest potential for abuse. Other Schedule I drugs include heroin, LSD, cocaine, and MDMA.

President Trump told journalists on Monday his administration was considering reclassifying marijuana to a less serious category.

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Were looking at reclassification, and well make a determination over the next few weeks, and that determination will hopefully be the right one, President Donald Trump said during an Aug. 11 press briefing.

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In the past, some Tennessee Republicans have told News 2 they would not consider legalizing medical marijuana until the federal government reclassified the drug.

My position is you need to stay consistent, and Im against sanctuary cities in the state of Tennessee, which is against federal law, Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) said in 2020. Marijuana, unfortunately, is a Schedule I drug at the Federal level, which makes it against the law. Other states have passed it, and I understand that, but if you are going to be consistent, and as Im opposed to sanctuary cities because its against federal law, as long as its a Schedule I, its against federal law, and so until that changes, its hard to have a discussion.

Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom

It solves a lot of problems in that a doctor could prescribe it then, and I think it should be prescribed by a physician, Lt. Gov. and Speaker of the Senate Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge) said in Jan. 2024.

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Paul Armentano, deputy director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), told News 2 the significance of the federal government reclassifying marijuana would be more symbolic.

Moving marijuana from one category of the federal Controlled Substances Act to a lower category of the CSA does not legalize marijuana nationwide. It simply sets a new set of federal regulations and criteria governing how the federal government recognizes that substance, Armentano said. Symbolically, I think there is tremendous significance in the federal government for the first time abandoning its flat-earth attitude toward cannabis and recognizing, as the majority of the public already recognizes and the majority of doctors already recognize, that cannabis has medical value.

All previous attempts in the Tennessee legislature to legalize medical marijuana, even Republican-sponsored bills, have failed. Armentano said if lawmakers wanted to change the states cannabis laws, they likely would have done so already.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

I think that the federal government changing its position and publicly acknowledge its changing its position on this issue could perhaps encourage some lawmakers or embolden some lawmakers, but the reality is the hard work will still remain on the state level, and I dont know if Tennessee lawmakers are up for it, because they certainly have shown no appetite for doing it in the past, Armentano said.

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Tennessee is one of 10 states that have not legalized medical marijuana.

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Peruvian President Dina Boluarte has signed into law a controversial piece of legislation that would shield the military, police and other government-sanctioned forces from prosecution for human rights abuses committed during the countrys decades-long internal conflict.

On Wednesday, Boluarte held a signing ceremony at the presidential palace in Lima, where she defended the amnesty law as a means of honouring the sacrifices made by government forces.

This is a historic day for our country, she said. It brings justice and honour to those who stood up to terrorism.

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But human rights groups and international observers have condemned the bill as a violation of international law  not to mention a denial of justice for the thousands of survivors who lived through the conflict.

From 1980 to 2000, Peru experienced a bloody conflict that pitted government forces against left-wing rebel groups like the Shining Path.

Both sides, however, committed massacres, kidnappings and assaults on unarmed civilians, with the death toll from the conflict climbing as high as 70,000 people.

Up until present, survivors and family members of the deceased have continued to fight for accountability.





An estimated 600 investigations are currently under way, and 156 convictions have been achieved, according to the National Human Rights Coordinator, a coalition of Peruvian human rights organisations.

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Critics fear those ongoing probes could be scuttled under the wide-ranging protections offered by the new amnesty law, which stands to benefit soldiers, police officers and members of self-defence committees who face legal proceedings for which no final verdict has been rendered.

The legislation also offers humanitarian amnesty for those convicted over the age of 70.

Peru, however, falls under the jurisdiction of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which ordered the countrys government to immediately suspend the processing of the law on July 24.

The court ruled against past amnesty laws in Peru. In cases of severe human rights violations, it ruled that there can be no sweeping amnesty nor age limits for prosecution.

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In 1995, for instance, Peru passed a separate amnesty law that would have prevented the prosecution of security forces for human rights abuses between 1980 and that year. But it was greeted with widespread condemnation, including from United Nations experts, and it was eventually repealed.





In the case of the current amnesty law, nine UN experts issued a joint letter in July condemning its passage as a clear breach of [Perus] obligations under international law.

But at Wednesdays signing ceremony, President Boluarte reiterated her position that such international criticism was a violation of her countrys sovereignty and that she would not adhere to the Inter-American Courts decision.

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Peru is honouring its defenders and firmly rejecting any internal or external interference, Boluarte said.

We cannot allow history to be distorted, for perpetrators to pretend to be victims, and for the true defenders of the homeland to be branded as enemies of the nation they swore to protect.

Perus armed forces, however, have been implicated in a wide range of human rights abuses. Just last year, 10 soldiers were convicted of carrying out the systematic rape of Indigenous and rural women and girls.

Drawing from Perus Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, the human rights group Amnesty International estimates that the countrys armed forces and police were responsible for 37 percent of the deaths and disappearances that happened during the conflict.

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They were also credited with carrying out 75 percent of the reported instances of torture and 83 percent of sexual violence cases.

Francisco Ochoa, a victims advocate, spoke to Al Jazeera last month about his experiences surviving the 1985 Accomarca massacre as a 14-year-old teenager.

He had been in the corn fields preparing to sow seeds when soldiers arrived and rounded up the residents of his small Andean village.

Despite having no evidence linking the villagers to rebel groups, the soldiers locked many of them in their huts, fired into the structures and set them ablaze.

As many as 62 people were killed, including Ochoas mother, eight-year-old brother and six-year-old sister.

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The first thing I remember from that day is the smell when we arrived, Ochoa, now 54, told journalist Claudia Rebaza. It smelled like smouldering flesh, and there was no one around.

When asked how he and other survivors felt about the amnesty law, Ochoa responded, Outraged and betrayed.
President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday hosted a screening attended almost entirely by people connected to or involved in the concept and evolution of the documentary.

Its not the kind of documentary that you want to see, but its one that you have to see. No matter how much you may have read about theOctober 7 massacre, nothing can penetrate your consciousness more than seeing real-time images.

The raw reality of mans inhumanity and its effects drive home the realization that atrocity is not just a word used to give weight to a monstrous deed. It hits you in the face and makes your stomach churn. It invades every fiber of your being to make certain that you dont forget.

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It makes you walk away in the knowledge that this is not just another documentary. This is part of your history if you are an Israeli. This is what you must fight to prevent from happening again if you are a human being of any faith or nationality, or even without faith  and it must be seen while there are still hostages in Gaza.

The documentary in question is the award-winning productionWe Will Dance Again, which tells the story of how Hamas turned the Supernova music festival, representing peace and love, into a bloodbath.

Although it has already been shown in Israel, there are still many people who have not seen it but should.

President Isaac Herzog shows a screenshot from the recent Hamas video of hostage Evyatar David, at a news conference during a visit to Riga, Latvia last week. (credit: INTS KALNINS / REUTERS)

Nova was initially full of light, love, and joy; for many of the survivors, the nightmare is not yet over. Israel is still at war, and there are still hostages in Gaza. Some survivors spend their days on an emotional roller coaster.

A presidential screening of a gruesome documentary

President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday hosted a screening attended almost entirely by people connected to or involved in the concept and evolution of the documentary.

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While it was heart-warming during a surge of global anti-Israel feeling to have an Israeli-made documentary win an Emmy award, it was also important for the film to have an Israeli stamp of approval from the countrys number one citizen.

HOT CEO Tal Granot noted that We Will Dance Again is both a historic document and an important tool for telling Israels story to the world. But it also reflects Israeli society, she said, and should be watched in every Israeli household.

Not only did the documentary win an Emmy, she emphasized, but it was also significantly the first Emmy ever won by an Israeli documentary production and has earned kudos from around the world for the reality of its heartrending portrayal of the Nova massacre.

More than that, she added, it carries the message, We are here not just to exist but to live!

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The production team has dedicated the Emmy to the return of the hostages.

Toward the opening of the film, a young man who survived the massacre recounts how he took cover at the festival and that when he finally got up, he was struck by the realization that he was surrounded by dead bodies. My life will never be what it was, he says.

Prior to the official start of Tuesdays event, a few members of the production team stood on stage and held aloft the Emmy statuette, which is made largely of copper, nickel, and silver dipped in 24-karat gold.

In the course of a panel discussion that was held in conjunction with the screening, Yariv Mozer, the director of the documentary, said that on October 7, when there was still so much panic and confusion, he wanted to help, but he didnt know what to do.

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In consultation with friends and colleagues, he decided to go south and to film whatever was needed to put together a documentary that would make viewers realize the enormity of what had happened.

He called the IDF spokesman, who happened to be a friend, and told him that he needed to get to the South as quickly as possible. It was arranged.

The horrific sights that he encountered were psychologically and emotionally shattering  but he had given himself a mission to disseminate the truth of this outrage.

After he returned home, he showed a colleague what he had managed to assemble, and the colleague excitedly told him that he must get in touch with MGM.

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A Zoom meeting was arranged. Mozer explained what he wanted to do, and 24 hours later, he received the green light. Other companies were quick to come on board.

A collaborative effort between Israels HOT, SIPUR, and Sloatzky Productions, with MGM, the BBC, and Paramount, has been acclaimed globally for its realism.

Putting together a documentary and editing it takes at least a year, Mozer explained, but it was essential to get it out within the shortest possible time frame, while the massacre was still news  which in many reports had been distorted to the extent that Israel was no longer seen as the victim.

It was imperative that the truth be told. Material was collected from the phone cameras of survivors, some of whom had taken videos, knowing that they would contribute to vital evidence of what had taken place.

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Others wanted a final image of a loved one or a friend. Not everyone who took video shots survived, but their legacies were in these cameras. There were also images of scenes captured by rescuers.

Footage from the cameras of both Israelis and terrorists who wore body cameras was integrated into the film with lots of reviewing and editing along the way. There were many partners whose objections and approval had to be taken into account.

There was also a major battle with the BBC, which objected to the use of the word terrorist in references to Hamas. But the word could not very well be eliminated if it was used in speech by a survivor who had witnessed the cruelty.

Other members of the panel included Shira Shapira, the mother of Aner Shapira, who, alongside his friend Hersh Goldberg-Polin, had attended Nova and had saved the lives of several people while losing his own.

Goldberg-Polin was taken captive and murdered in Gaza. Aner, who lobbed back grenades at Hamas, is widely known as a hero. To his family, said his mother, he is better known for his values, his friendship, and his love of art and music.

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Songs that he composed have already been recorded and released, and more will be released later this month. Aner was much more than a hero, said his family, and they want the person that he was to be a source of inspiration and influence for good.

Also on the panel were Nova survivors Tamir Leshetz, Yuval Siman Tov, and Noam Ben David. Leshetz could not contain his tears, and his voice kept breaking as he spoke.

As a survivor, he said, he had the right to demand who was responsible for the suffering that was inflicted on the communities in the South.

Yuval Siman Tov recalled that initially there was a feeling that this couldnt be happening. He has relived the experience again and again in numerous interviews in Israel and abroad over the past 22 months, because he too is dedicated to presenting the truth to the world.

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The most triumphant moment in this respect was in the US when the whole audience rose and applauded.

Ben David spoke of the difficulties of emotional and psychological rehabilitation. There were times of being enveloped by family, she said, and then being left entirely alone. It was scary, but something she was learning to adjust to.

Herzog, in a reference to the recent horrifying videos of hostages Evyatar David and Rom Braslavski released by Hamas, said that these videos make it clear to Israel and the whole world that the horrendous acts the terror group committed on October 7 are continuing to the present day.

He praised We Will Dance Again saying that it was an initiative of creativity, responsibility, and commitment that will help to bring all the hostages home.

Eliya Cohen, who was released from Hamas captivity in February after 505 days and who had been in the shelter with Aner Shapira, spoke of the hell that he and others had endured.

Cohen appealed to Herzog to do everything possible to bring the remaining hostages home: We must not forget that we still have brothers who endured this hell and are living what I lived for 505 days.
ALABAMA (WHNT)  President Donald Trump has announced plans to nominate three Alabamians as federal judges to courts in Alabama, according to Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville.

Tubervilles office announced Tuesday that the three nominees, Edmund Eddie LaCour, Harold Hal Mooty and Bill Lewis, were recommended by Tuberville and Alabamas junior Senator Katie Britt.

White phosphorus mortar round found on Redstone Arsenal

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Both LaCour and Mooty are being nominated to serve in the U.S. Northern District Court for Alabama.

LaCour is the current Solicitor General of Alabama and a Dothan Native. He is a graduate of Birmingham-Southern College and Yale Law School. Prior to becoming solicitor general, LaCour served as deputy solicitor general after working in private practice in Washington, D.C.

In 2023, LaCour argued on behalf of the State of Alabama in a lawsuit over proposed congressional redistricting. Ultimately, federal judges struck down maps proposed by the Alabama Legislature, ruling that the state was required to create a second majority-black voting district.

Mooty is currently a partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP in Huntsville and is originally from Montgomery. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama, with both his undergraduate and law school degrees.

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Lewis is nominated to serve in the U.S. Middle District Court and currently serves as a justice on the Alabama Supreme Court. Prior to his appointment in May, Lewis served as a judge at the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals, where he was appointed in February 2024. Before that, Lewis served as circuit court judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit in Elmore County, where he was the Circuits presiding judge.

Tuberville celebrated the move.

The White House knocked it out of the park with these Alabama nominees, he said. Ever since President Trump took office, deranged, activist judges have done everything they can to stop President Trumps agenda. That wont happen in Alabama under my watch. Each of these Alabama nominees are committed to restoring law and order and ensuring our state remains a safe place for all Alabamians. I am confident that these nominees will uphold the Constitution in every decision and refuse to allow the judicial system to be weaponized for political gain.

Britt said the appointments are a win for Alabama.

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As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I have worked tirelessly to bring Alabamas conservative values to the forefront of the committees work, especially when it comes to evaluating nominees for the federal judiciary, she said. In order to maintain the credibility of the Judiciary, federal judges have a responsibility to faithfully interpret and apply the law in accordance with the Constitution and the laws that Congress has passed rather than seeking to legislate from the bench. Im strongly supportive of President Trumps nominees to fill three federal judicial vacancies in the great state of Alabama. I believe they will uphold the rule of law, honor the judicial oath, and keep Alabamians safe. I am confident they will serve our state well, and I look forward to their confirmations.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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NEW YORK (PIX11)  National Guard troops are roaming the streets of Washington, D.C. after being deployed by President Donald Trump, who declared an emergency in the nations capital earlier this week.

Around 800 National Guard members arrived in D.C. on Tuesday. Trump also took over the Metropolitan Police Department under the citys Home Rule Act, despite Mayor Muriel Bowser and the MPD arguing that violent crime is at a 30-year low.

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Then Im going to look at New York, Trump said during Mondays announcement. Lets do this together and well seeits going to go pretty quickly.

It may be difficult for Trump to take over the NYPD like he did the MPD. But could he deploy the National Guard into New York City?

He could  but would likely face pushback from New York lawmakers. The Trump administration is facing a lawsuit connected to deploying the National Guard in California during protests over immigration raids.

The state of California is arguing that Trump violated a law that bans the president from using the military to police civilians. Federal authorities are fighting back, saying that the National Guard was deployed to protect federal buildings amid the rallies.

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The National Guard usually only answers to the governor of the state theyre in. The only exceptions to this are if members are called into federal service or if troops are under the Washington, D.C. National Guard.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

Democratic mayoral nominee and Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani promised to hire 200 more city attorneys to combat Trump. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo said hes the only mayoral candidate who could stop Trump from sending troops into the Big Apple, arguing he thwarted similar efforts during the presidents first term.

Mayor Eric Adams said through a spokesperson that while crime has dropped in New York City, he would welcome federal help in certain circumstances.

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This story comprises reporting from PIX11s Henry Rosoff, Reuters and The Associated Press.

Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  President Donald Trump and European leaders discussed the war in Ukraine during a virtual meeting Wednesday.

President Trump pushed for a ceasefire to be on the agenda when he meets with Russias president in Alaska, but Ukraines leader says the world shouldnt be fooled by Vladimir Putins tactics.

In a video call with European leaders President Trump gave a preview of his upcoming meeting with Putin and said peace is on the agenda but if not, there will be very severe consequences.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also on the call. He says he supports the meeting, but Zelenskyy says there is no sign that Russia is preparing to end the war.

Zelenskyy told the group Putin is bluffing, using heavy attacks along multiple fronts to create the illusion that Russia could seize all of Ukraine.

As of now the White House says Zelenskyy will not be at the meeting about the fate of his country.

He hopes in the future there can be a trilateral meeting with these three leaders to finally bring this conflict to an end, said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

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President Trump is leaving the door open to continuing talks with Russia.

Theres a very good chance well have a second meeting which will be more productive than the first, because with the first Im going to find out where we are and what were doing, said Trump.

The big face-off between President Trump and President Putin is set for Friday in Alaska.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 new picture of law enforcement in the nations capital began taking shape Tuesday as some of the 800 National Guard members deployed by the Trump administration began arriving. The citys police and federal officials, projecting cooperation, took the first steps in an uneasy partnership to reduce crime in what President Donald Trump called  without substantiation  a lawless city.

The influx came the morning after the Republican president announced he would be activating the guard members and taking over the Districts police department, something the law allows him to do temporarily. He cited a crime emergency  but referred to the same crime that city officials stress is already falling noticeably.

By evening, the administration was saying that National Guard members were expected to be on the streets starting Tuesday night, according to a White House official who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The Army said there were no specifics on the locations they will be patrolling, according to an official who spoke on condition of anonymity for the same reason.

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Mayor Muriel Bowser pledged to work alongside the federal officials Trump has tasked with overseeing the citys law enforcement, while insisting the police chief remained in charge of the department and its officers.

How we got here or what we think about the circumstances  right now we have more police, and we want to make sure we use them, she told reporters.

The tone was a shift from the day before, when Bowser said Trumps plan to take over the Metropolitan Police Department and call in the National Guard was not a productive step and argued his perceived state of emergency simply doesnt match the declining crime numbers. Still, the law gives the federal government more sway over the capital city than in U.S. states, and Bowser said her administrations ability to push back is limited.

Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on social media that the meeting was productive.

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The law allows Trump to take over the D.C. police for up to 30 days, though White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested it could last longer as authorities later reevaluate and reassess. Extending federal control past that time would require Congressional approval, something likely tough to achieve in the face of Democratic resistance.

About 850 officers and agents fanned out across Washington on Monday and arrested 23 people overnight, Leavitt said. The charges, she said, included homicide, drunk driving, gun and drug crimes and subway fare evasion. She didnt immediately provide further information on the arrests.

The U.S. Park Police has also removed 70 homeless encampments over the last five months, she said. People who were living in them can leave, go to a homeless shelter or go into drug addiction treatment, Leavitt said. Those who refuse could face fines or jail time.

The city and Trump have had a bumpy relationship

While Trump invokes his plan by saying that were going to take our capital back, Bowser and the MPD maintain that violent crime overall in Washington has decreased to a 30-year low after a sharp rise in 2023. Carjackings, for example, dropped about 50% in 2024 and are down again this year. More than half of those arrested, however, are juveniles, and the extent of those punishments is a point of contention for the Trump administration.

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Resident Jeraod Tyre, whos lived in Washington for 15 years, said he does see crime slowing down. Hes wary of the National Guard troops, who dont have the same local knowledge as the citys regular police force. I feel safe walking through the city each and every day. The police are doing a mighty fine job, he said.

Bowser, a Democrat, spent much of Trumps first term in office openly sparring with the Republican president. She fended off his initial plans for a military parade through the streets and stood in public opposition when he called in a multi-agency flood of federal law enforcement to confront anti-police brutality protesters in summer 2020. She later had the words Black Lives Matter painted in giant yellow letters on the street about a block from the White House.

In Trumps second term, backed by Republican control of both houses of Congress, Bowser has walked a public tightrope for months, emphasizing common ground with the Trump administration on issues such as the successful effort to bring the NFLs Washington Commanders back to the District of Columbia.

She watched with open concern for the city streets as Trump finally got his military parade this summer. Her decision to dismantle Black Lives Matter Plaza earlier this year served as a neat metaphor for just how much the power dynamics between the two executives had evolved.

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Now that fraught relationship enters uncharted territory as Trump has followed through on months of what many D.C. officials had quietly hoped were empty threats. The new standoff has cast Bowser in a sympathetic light, even among her longtime critics. Its a power play and were an easy target, said Clinique Chapman, CEO of the D.C. Justice Lab and a frequent Bowser critic.

Where the power actually lies

Bowser contends that all the power resides with Trump and that local officials can do little other than comply and make the best of it. As long as Washington remains a federal enclave with limited autonomy under the 1973 Home Rule Act, she said, it will remain vulnerable to such takeovers.

Trump is the first president to use the laws Section 740 to take over Washingtons police for up to 30 days during times of emergencies.

For Trump, the effort to take over public safety in D.C. reflects an escalation of his aggressive approach to law enforcement. The District of Columbias status as a congressionally established federal district gives him a unique opportunity to push his tough-on-crime agenda, though he has not proposed solutions to the root causes of homelessness or crime.

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Trumps declaration of a state of emergency fits the general pattern of his second term in office. He has declared states of emergency on issues ranging from border protection to economic tariffs, enabling him to essentially rule via executive order. In many cases, he has moved forward while the courts sorted them out.

Bowsers claims about successfully driving down violent crime rates received backing earlier this year from an unlikely source. Ed Martin, Trumps original choice for U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, issued a press release in April hailing a 25% drop in violent crime rates from the previous year.

Tom Power, resident of the hip Logan Circle neighborhood for over a decade, said he occasionally hears about shootings or car break-ins, but hes never been a victim himself. I never felt threatened, Ive never given much thought to it, he said.

Washington native Sheina Taylor said the troops are putting her on edge. Its more fearful now because even though youre a law abiding citizen, here in D.C., you dont know, especially because Im African-American, she said.

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Trumps newly confirmed top federal prosecutor for Washington, onetime judge and former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro, argued that violent crime remains high and a significant issue for victims, despite recent decreases. These were vibrant human beings cut down because of illegal guns, she said.

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President Donald Trump said earlier this week his administration is considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug.

"We're looking at reclassification and we'll make a determination over the next few weeks," Trump said at news conference August 11.

Though 45 states have legalized the use of marijuana for medicinal or recreational use, the federal government still classifies it as a Schedule I drug.

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Here's what a Schedule I drug is and what to know about marijuana laws in Indiana as well as around the country.

What is a Schedule I drug?

Schedule I drugs are defined as highly dangerous, addictive and without medical use. Marijuana has belonged to this class of drugs since the Controlled Substances Act was signed in 1970. If reclassified, marijuana would be treated the same as drugs like Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids, which can be prescribed by licensed health care providers and dispensed by licensed pharmacies.

Reclassifying marijuana would be the biggest change in marijuana policy the federal government has taken since the drug was first outlawed, but it would not make recreational usage legal under federal law.

Is weed legal in Indiana?

No. In Indiana, weed is not legal for recreational or medical use.

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CBD, Delta-9 THC and THCA, which are alternatives to marijuana, are available for legal purchase at vape shops in Indiana as long as those levels don't exceed the legal limit. Any THC product with a higher level than 0.3% is classified as marijuana and therefore still illegal.

Cannabis cheat code: Marijuana is illegal in Indiana, but this loophole makes it complicated

How many states have legalized weed?

Marijuana is legal for both recreational and medicinal use in 24 states and the District of Columbia as of April 2025, according to DISA Global Solutions. The states are listed below:

Alaska

Arizona

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Illinois

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Missouri

Montana

Nevada

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

Ohio

Oregon

Rhode Island

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

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46 states, Washington DC and three U.S. territories have approved some form of cannabis for medicinal use. Nebraska is the most recent state to vote in favor of medical marijuana.

In what states is marijuana legal near Indiana?

Ohio (Recreational and medicinal use)

Illinois (Recreational and medicinal use)

Michigan (Recreational and medicinal use)

Kentucky (Medicinal use only)

Story continues after photo gallery.

When was weed banned federally?

Marijuana was banned federally in 1970 with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act, which classified marijuana as a Schedule I drug.

More on cannabis: What's the difference between Delta 8 THC and marijuana or 'weed'?

In what states is marijuana fully illegal other than Indiana?

Marijuana is fully illegal for both medicinal and recreational use and has not been decriminalized in four additional states:

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Idaho

Kansas

South Carolina

Wyoming

There are also a few states where medical and recreational marijuana isn't legalized, but is decriminalized.

Kayla Dwyer and Greta Cross contributed to this report.

Katie Wiseman covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Bluesky @katiewiseman

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Will Trump reclassify marijuana? What are current Indiana marijuana laws?
Joe Biden and the former commander in chiefs allies are threatening to reveal the shocking depths of Kamala Harris political incompetence if the Democrats ex-veep dishes any more details about her old boss mental decline during his term in the Oval Office, sources say.

However, experts see the brewing battle between the onetime political partners as a desperate attempt to thwart the deep-dive congressional probe into Bidens scandalous autopen pardons.

According to insiders, the high-stakes smackdown comes as Harris promotes her upcoming book 107 Days, which promises to deliver new insights into her botched presidential bid against Donald Trump that launched last year after Biden abruptly dropped out of the race following his disastrous debate performance.

Experts believe Harris is poised to expose Bidens dirty laundry because she has an axe to grind over his lackluster support for her 2024 campaign  and that Biden and his cronies remain steamed over her secretly pushing Democratic Party leaders to force him into retirement for medical reasons.

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Kamala has a chip on her shoulder, and shes been told by everybody in the party to keep her mouth shut or well bury you,  presidential expert Leon Wagener tells Globe. Everyone knows there is a deep well of dislike and distrust between them, and its going to be all-out war if she talks and the Biden team goes after her.

Political reporter Mark Halperin claims Bidens camp is expecting the worst and gearing up for a bloody political battle to preserve the 82-year-old career politicians already damaged reputation.

If the Biden people decide that Kamala is coming after Joe Biden, wait till you hear the Palinesque stories about how much they tried to help her be prepared to be vice president and be in a position to run, he said on The Morning Meeting show, referring to former Alaska governor and GOP vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

Often-ridiculed Palin, who was the late Sen. John McCains running mate in their doomed race against Barack Obama in 2008, was considered by many to be clueless and ill-prepared for the job.

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If the Biden people feel threatened, you will hear stories about Kamala Harris as vice president that will not make her look good, Halperin reiterates. Im telling you, if Joe Biden feels threatened, if his people feel threatened by her, this is gonna escalate in a big way.

While Harris was supposedly furious at Biden for saddling her with near-impossible tasks, like fixing the immigration crisis at the Texas-Mexico border, the then-vice president was labeled a regular headache by Joes team for allegedly ducking tough assignments, according to sources cited in Jake Tapper and Alex Thompsons book Original Sin.

Many on the Biden team felt that Harris didnt put in the work and was also just not a very nice person, reads the damning tome, which painfully details Bidens believed mental decline. Several quietly expressed buyers remorse.

As Globe readers know, the U.S. Department of Justice and the House Oversight Committee are investigating Bidens mental state during his administration, as well as the use of the mechanical autopen device used to provide his signature on official documents  including pardons to his family members.

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Several of Bidens closest aides  including his former White House doctor Kevin OConnor  have invoked their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination during the hearings, leading some conservatives to scream cover-up and question who was running the country, per Newsweek.

Today, the third witness in our investigation into the cover-up of President Bidens cognitive decline and unauthorized executive actions pleaded the Fifth Amendment, railed Kentuckys Rep. James Comer in a July 18 statement. There is now a pattern of key Biden confidants seeking to shield themselves from criminal liability for this potential conspiracy.

It is unknown if Harris will get subpoenaed to testify before the committee, but some experts believe she will eventually rat out Biden.

Wagener predicts, Shes going to get pissed off at some point, eventually spill the beans and reveal just how senile Joe was and how everyone, including his wife, Jill, covered up for him.
Micah Laureano with his mother, Phyllis, who filed a lawsuit after Micah's death | Photo courtesy Phyllis Laureno

Months after 19 year-old Micah Laureano was killed by his cellmate at Green Bay Correctional Institution, Laureanos mother filed a lawsuit against officials in the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.

The Wisconsin Examiners Criminal Justice Reporting Project shines a light on incarceration, law enforcement and criminal justice issues with support from the Public Welfare Foundation.

On Friday, Secretary Jared Hoy and the warden of GBCI, Christopher Stevens, denied violating any of Laureanos rights and engaging in any unlawful actions.

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They denied that the plaintiff, Phyllis Laureano, is entitled to any of the relief that she seeks and called for the complaint to be dismissed.

The lawsuit alleged that defendants willful and deliberate indifference to Mr. Laureanos safety resulted in him being murdered by his cellmate. It alleged that based on Defendants actions, Mr. Laureano suffered cruel and unusual punishment when Defendants failed to protect him from harm.

The lawsuit alleged that defendants failed to protect Mr. Laureano when they placed a particularly aggressive, violent, and discriminatory inmate with a history of severe physical assault and mental health issues in a cell with him.

In June, Jackson Vogel was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for Laureanos death.

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Vogel reportedly said he attacked Laureano because he was Black and gay, according to a report the Examiner received from the Brown County Sheriffs Office.

According to the report, Vogel had been issued conduct reports dated March 5 and 6, 2024, for language in inmate complaints and interview requests.

The complaints reportedly contained obscene, profane, abusive and threatening language and swastika symbols. According to the report, Vogel wrote you all need and deserve Death! Hail Hitler! and mentioned the Aryan Brotherhood and White Power (WLM).

The Post-Crescent reported that in May 2024, a judge and a prosecutor in Manitowoc County received death threats in the mail from Vogel, containing violent language detailing torture and cannibalism.

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In an article about Laureanos death at GBCI in August, the Examiner reported that court records showed Vogel had been found guilty of attempted first-degree intentional homicide, and Laureano had been found guilty of taking and driving a vehicle without consent and as party to a crime for substantial battery intending bodily harm, robbery with use of force and first-degree recklessly endangering safety.

A telephone scheduling conference will take place at 9:20 a.m. on Sept. 11.

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Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his determination to protect the interests of farmers in the wake of tariff pressures and said it has been decided that there will be no compromise with the interests of the farming community. Speaking at an event in Subrahmanyam Hall in New Delhi, Chouhan emphasised that India's population is its strength and the country will also find new markets. In a veiled reference to the United States imposing 50 per cent tariff on India and apparent pressure in trade talks for greater access to India's agriculture and dairy sectors, Chouhan said there is vast difference in the size of landholdings and agricultural practices and cost of production in the two countries. "The whole country was apprehensive, tariff...You know how much land they hold: 10,000 hectares, 15,000 hectares. Meanwhile, our farmers have land ranging from one acre to three acres, with many having just half an acre. We have a little land. Is this competition fair? You use GM seeds. There are different kinds of perceptions about our GM. The whole country was apprehensive, what will happen? They want their soybean to come here, their wheat, maize, rice," the Agriculture Minister said. "The cost of production per hectare is less there because GM seeds and other things are used, so the yield is more and the cost is less. The cost of production per hectare here is much higher than there, and if it had come openly, the prices of the crops here would have fallen further in our country. Where would the farmer go? Therefore, it was decided that no matter what happens, there will be no compromise with the interests of the farmer," he added. Chouhan referred to PM Modi's remarks that no matter how much loss he personally incurs, there will be no compromise with interests of farmers. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi said recently that no matter how much loss I personally incur, but the interests of farmers will not be compromised. This is the voice of India, voice of farmers...Farmer brothers, be assured. If there is some difficutly, we will see. We will find new markets, and India itself is such a big market that our things will be consumed here. The population of the whole of Europe is 50 crore, America's is 30 crore, our population of 144 crore is not our weakness; it is our strength. That is why this decision was taken. It is also testing time, we don't have budge, bow..." Chouhan said. US imposed 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods last month and increased it to 50 per cent over import of Russian oil. Chouhan also spoke of the government's determination to provide more resources to agriculture. Chouhan also dismissed nuclear sabre-rattling by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and said India has decided to put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance after the Pahalgam terror attack. "Today, as a farmer, I want to congratulate our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I want to thank him. The first thing is the Indus Water Treaty. Now the neighbour is giving threats from America. India is not going to be afraid of any threat. The whole world should hear that the Indus Treaty has been cancelled, and our water will be used for the farmers. This is Modi ji's decision. Such an unjust treaty, the rivers, land, water are ours and the canal will be built in Pakistan. We gave 80% of the water, and Nehru ji also gave money to build the canal there; this was a sin. Now this will not be allowed at any cost; our water will be used for our own purposes," Chouhan said. Referring to Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism against India, Chouhan said PM Modi has made it clear that "blood and water cannot flow together". He said the government would soon bring in a new law to take strict action against those producing fake fertilisers and chemicals. He said various schemes for farmers' welfare are being advanced on priority and digital payment of insurance amounts was made to farmers on Monday from Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. The Union Minister highlighted PM Modi's 'Nation First' resolve and emphasized that the Prime Minister has always taken strong, bold, nation-centric decisions, for which the country will forever remain indebted.(ANI)
A prisoner who had a rare form of pneumonia died after "poor and unsafe" nursing caused delays in him being assessed and treated, a report says.

Marc Uzzell, 42, had been charged with violent offences and was on remand at HMP Bristol when he became unwell on Christmas Eve 2022. He died in hospital four days later.

The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman found Mr Uzzell reported coughing up blood but the agency nurse who assessed him did not record his observations or mention them during morning handover.

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A spokesperson for the prison service said it had since made "significant improvements" and taken action to ensure staff properly record decisions.

Mr Uzzell was the seventh prisoner at Bristol to die since December 2019 and there have been a further seven deaths since, the report added.

He first became unwell in the early hours of 24 December 2022 and was assessed by Nurse A.

Mr Uzzell remained unwell and his symptoms got worse. At about 09:00 GMT another nurse reviewed him and found he needed to be assessed by a critical care team in hospital.

She also notified the prison's head of healthcare about Nurse A's failure to record his assessment or hand over properly.

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Mr Uzzell did not recover and at an inquest in June the coroner for Avon concluded he died from natural causes, adding the delay in hospital admission increased the speed and severity of the illness and accelerated his death.

Nurse A's actions remain under investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the report adds.

Marc Uzzell was being held on remand when he fell ill in December 2022 [PA Media]

The report said Nurse A initially failed to engage with the ombudsman's investigation and maintained he had provided a statement to the prison's head of healthcare, who disputed this.

In a statement submitted to the clinical reviewer, Nurse A said Mr Uzzell was alert and said he advised him to contact prison healthcare if his symptoms persisted.

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The report adds: "He also said that he had spoken about Mr Uzzell during the handover to healthcare day staff, but we found no evidence to corroborate this."

The report recommends agency staff are "clinically competent" to be assigned to the role of lead emergency nurse and that improvements are made to the documentation of interactions and decisions.

It also said record keeping when dispensing medication should be improved, as Mr Uzzell was given over-the-counter painkillers three times from 19-20 December but the reason for this was not recorded.

In 2023, a damning report into HMP Bristol said there were "chronic and intractable" problems, which led to HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor describing it as "one of the most unsafe prisons in the country".

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A spokesperson for HM Prison Service said: "We accepted all of the ombudsman's recommendations and took action in 2023 to ensure staff properly record key decisions and preserve important documents after a death in custody.

"Since 2023, HMP Bristol has made significant improvements including boosting security, expanding support services, and improving rehabilitation to help reduce reoffending and make the prison safer."

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A prisoner managed to escape from Washington State Department of Corrections officers while he was being transported through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, authorities said.

Corrections officers and local law enforcement officers are looking for 20-year-old John Nino, who fled from custody while he was being escorted through the airport shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Washington State Department of Corrections.

MORE: Fugitive on the run for over 6 weeks after escaping police at airport captured

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Nino, who is 6 feet, 2 inches tall and weighs 154 pounds, was on community supervision for second-degree robbery and had a warrant out for his arrest after he failed to report for meetings with his community corrections officer.

Nino was arrested several days ago in New Mexico and was being returned to Department of Corrections custody in Washington when managed to escape.

He was wearing a red coat and gray sweatpants and officers say they last saw him crossing railroad tracks and heading towards Highway 99, which is near the airport, before he disappeared.

MORE: $30,000 of stolen Labubus recovered in major California bust

Washington State Department of Corrections - PHOTO: A prisoner in Washington managed to escape from the custody of Department of Corrections officers while he was being transported through the airport, authorities said.

MORE: Coast Guard suspends search for missing fisherman after boat with 4 crew members capsizes

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This is not the first time this year that an inmate has managed to escape police custody on the grounds of Sea-Tac Airport.

In May, an inmate, 29-year-old Sedric Stevenson, escaped and was able to evade authorities for over six weeks when he was eventually captured 45 days later after being charged in Kentucky on multiple charges including convicted felon in possession of a firearm, assault in the third degree and enhanced possession of a controlled substance in the first degree (methamphetamine).

Authorities are now searching for Nino but have asked the public not to approach the suspect if they see him and to report any sightings of Nino to the police.

ABC News' Tristan Maglunog contributed to this report.
(NewsNation)  Authorities in Washington state are searching for a 20-year-old prisoner who escaped custody at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Tuesday.

John Nino, who is six feet, two inches tall and 154 pounds, was wearing a red coat and grey sweatpants, according to the Washington Department of Corrections. He was last seen crossing railroad tracks in the area, heading toward Highway 99.

Lawmakers dig into prison failures after Arkansas escape

John Nino. (Washington State Department of Corrections)

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Nino was on community supervision for second-degree robbery and had a warrant out for his arrest for failing to check in with his corrections officer when he was arrested in New Mexico, ABC News reported. He was being returned to the Washington Department of Corrections when he fled the airport.

Another inmate, Sedrick T. Stevenson, escaped custody at Sea-Tac airport in May. He was captured six weeks later.

Authorities are asking anyone with knowledge of Ninos whereabouts to call 911 and not approach him.

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A new Illinois law that Gov. JB Pritzker (D) signed Tuesday will require all law enforcement agencies in the state to conduct more thorough background checks on prospective officers.

The law, spurred by the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey in July 2024, requires agencies to review every applicants employment history and records before making job offers.

Massey, 36, was shot and killed in her home by Sangamon County, Ill., sheriffs deputy Sean Grayson after Massey called authorities to report a suspected prowler.

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Grayson was later fired and charged with murder. His trial is scheduled for October.

Graysons employment record came under scrutiny after the shooting, as it was discovered he worked for six law enforcement agencies over four years and had a history of insubordinate behavior in previous roles.

Pritzker said in a statement that the new law will help prevent these tragedies, to better equip law enforcement to keep our communities safe, and to continue working to build a justice system that protects all of our citizens.

When Sonya Massey feared for her safety, she did what anyone would do  she called law enforcement for help, the governor said. Communities should be able to trust that when they call the police to their home, the responding officer will be well-trained and without a history of bias or misconduct.

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Masseys family reached a $10 million wrongful death settlement with Sangamon County in February.

Separately, the U.S. Department of Justice and the sheriffs office brokered an agreement in January to settle a federal investigation into race and disability discrimination in the countys policing and dispatch services that was prompted by the shooting.

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Pro-Palestinian groups left death threats at acting Gaza Humanitarian Foundation director John Acree's house, while activists protested at the Tel Aviv hotel where Acree was staying.

Pro-Palestinian groups vandalized the house of John Acree, acting director of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), and painted death threats on his driveway, according to pro-Palestinian activist groups posting on social media on Tuesday.

The attack included a message in his driveway that said Death to the GHF, and damage to his car wheels and rearview mirrors.

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Eye on Palestine and WearThePeace, both of whom shared the event on social media and stated that it was done because of the GHFs aid traps.

John Acree, the Interim Executive Director of the GHF, had his home and vehicle targeted by American activists due to his involvement in war crimes in Gaza. These attacks were linked to his role in U.S.-Israeli distribution centers - often referred to as death traps, Eye on Palestine posted on their X/Twitter account.

In the same spirit, WearThePeace also said that the attack was because of his complicity in genocide as thousands have been killed and injured at the aid death traps.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation distributes aid to Gazans in Tel Sultan, Gaza, June 2, 2025. (credit: COURTESY GHF)

Anti-GHF protests in Tel Aviv

The attack came at the same time that protestors demonstrated outside of the Tel Aviv hotel where Acree is reportedly currently staying.

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The protest was led by Radical Bloc, an Israeli left-wing activist organization based in Jaffa.

We're confronting GHFs leaders in Tel Aviv - CEO John Acree, spokesperson Chapin Fay, and their team. GHF is not a humanitarian organization - its a weapon of genocide. We will find them, disrupt them everywhere until the siege is lifted and GHF is dismantled, said the organization on an X/Twitter post.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  The Cristo Rey Columbus High Schools work study program kicked off Tuesday, looking to prepare students with real-world work experiences.

Students are able to participate in speed chatting with businesses and community leaders. The three-minute conversations are meant to help students sharpen their communication skills and boost their confidence in professional settings.

Both current and former students said the work study program is a big step toward preparing them to enter the workforce.

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Cristo Reys work study program enables students to work five days a month in entry-level roles in fields like healthcare, law, finance, and technology.

Next week, students will find out which businesses they will work at this year.

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Mammogram scans are shown on a digital screen alongside a mammography machine. (Tom Werner/Getty Images)

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. this week defunded research in messenger RNA vaccines, which could create a chilling effect that could jeopardize efforts to develop vaccines against breast cancer, experts said.

The government is cancelling almost $500 million in 22 research contracts previously granted through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, a subsidiary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In addition, the agency will not initiate new grants for projects involving messenger RNA, the revolutionary basis for COVID-19 immunizations. The scientists who helped discover mRNA technology won the 2023 Nobel Prize for Medicine; no vaccine has ever been so quickly developed and produced as the COVID-19 vaccines.

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This story was originally published by The 19th. The Illuminator is a founding member of The 19th News Network.

Kennedy, who is known for his broad opposition to vaccines, said Health and Human Services is terminating the contracts because these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections  despite the broad medical consensus, backed by large studies, which holds that the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.

The governments move has been widely decried by vaccine researchers, immunologists and public health experts. Some scientists have touted mRNA technology as a possible avenue to develop other vaccines, including ones to treat various cancers, including breast cancer, which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide.

Cancer vaccines have been a rapid area of growth for medical research in recent years. Prophylactic vaccines, such as the human papillovirus vaccine, prevent cancers. But immunologists and cancer researchers have been working to develop new therapeutic vaccines  products that can trigger the immune system to fight against cancer cells after they have already developed, working instead as a treatment. There is a growing consensus that mRNA vaccines could be particularly effective in fighting cancers.

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Most cancer vaccines currently in clinical trials are not based on mRNA. But its an area of growing interest: More than 120 clinical trials have been registered with the federal government to explore how mRNA vaccines could treat different cancers. Vaccines in development that make use of mRNA include those that could treat melanoma, lymphoma and colorectal cancer; scientists are also examining the possibility to treat pancreatic, lung and breast cancer.

The 22 contracts terminated were for treatments and vaccines for conditions such as influenza, COVID-19 and bird flu, not cancer. In its announcement, HHS said other uses of mRNA technology beyond prophylactic vaccines will not be affected.

But some cancer researchers still fear that Kennedys promise will cast a chill upon a promising line of inquiry, slowing progress and possibly preventing scientists from developing effective cancer treatments.

Theres no question that the U.S. federal government has been one of the largest funders of biomedical research and innovation in the world, said Dr. Herbert Kim Lyerly, an immunologist at Duke University.

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Lyerly is part of a team currently working on a clinical trial for an RNA vaccine that could treat many common cancers, including breast cancer. So far, he said, the results have been promising. His work is government-supported but wasnt affected by the recent cancellation of mRNA contracts.

Still, he believes the shift in policy could deter scientific innovation  if researchers cant count on stable funding to explore mRNA-based options, it could prevent them from developing the most effective therapeutics.

It reduces the options you have to explore strategies to reduce the burden of disease, to prevent disease, to improve the quality of life of people in this country, he said. To take away any of the tools to potentially have an impact is likely to limit progress.

Others have echoed his concerns, including a spokesperson for the Biotechnology Innovation Center, who told the news organization STAT that scaling back government investments in mRNA vaccines could erode progress and discourage investment in other promising areas of research, including cancer and rare diseases. In a statement on the social media platform X, former surgeon general Jerome Adams, who served in President Donald Trumps first term, called the move dangerous, highlighting its implications for flu, RSV, HIV, Zika, autoimmune diseases and cancer.

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Still, some researchers said they anticipate that any vacuum created by the federal governments retreat will be filled by other entities: foundations and nonprofits that focus on cancer.

People are committed to mRNA because it has been shown to be safe and effective. People will still continue to do that research, said Dr. Alison Stopeck, an oncologist at Stony Brook Cancer Center who focuses on breast cancer.

If the federal government does not support this kind of work, she added, Foundations and donors will step in and provide some resources for this as well  because donors and foundations know how important this research is.

Already, medical researchers have been left reeling after the federal governments cancellation of major funding through institutions such as the National Institutes of Health  a move the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office recently deemed illegal. Thats been compounded by other funding cuts to individual research universities as well as a broader federal effort to curb funding into medical research that considers gender or gender inequality.

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Though deaths from cancers have been declining, an April report from the National Cancer Institute found that the incidence of cancer actually increased for women over the past two decades. Breast cancer is also growing more common, particularly among young women and Asian American and Pacific Islander women. Black women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are substantially more likely to die than White women.

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This story was originally reported by Shefali Luthra of The 19th. Meet Shefali and read more of her reporting on gender, politics and policy.
Early in the morning of Aug. 13, Gov. Matt Meyer signed a suite of bills aimed at "stopgap measures" and immediate relief for Delawareans in the throes of reassessment and property tax fallout.

It came just hours after an emergency special session concluded at Legislative Hall.

The Delaware House and Senate reconvened from about 2 to 10 p.m. in Dover, on a day packed with tension, debate and long hours of backroom caucusing from the majority. Ultimately, the scramble coalesced into about three key areas of legislation to address growing frustration over property tax hikes in New Castle County.

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All eyes were on the resident tax burden, messy reassessment fallout and school taxes. Among highlights are House bills to allow school districts to split tax rates, counties to offer payment plans with protections, as well as direct cash rebates to appeals and calls for further review.

Looking ahead: What's next on reassessment, property tax reform in Delaware? To be seen

Lawmakers bypassed typical legislative rules  like committee hearings, public comment and more  alongside several bills from state Republicans and more progressive wings of the Democrat majority. Both of these points added to contentious debate and quips shot across the House chamber late into Aug. 12.

But drama aside, there's a lot New Castle County property owners in particular need to know from session.

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Your taxes are changing.

Why should you care about school districts splitting tax rates?

Delaware lawmakers convene a special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

How much you owe will likely change.

Looking back, Delaware's most populous county saw the first reassessment in over 40 years swing a much heavier tax burden onto residents, as compared to commercial properties.

In other words, these nonresidential, business assessments by Tyler Technologies tended to increase at a much lower rate than homes, apartments and condos alike. So, when school districts set one tax rate  for both residential and nonresidential  it sent many homeowners' school taxes skyward, while several businesses saw a break.

Back in spring, looking to couch the pain, the city of Wilmington and New Castle County had presented split rates for residential and nonresidential parcels, for the first time. According to the county, it looked to ease homeowner tax burden by holding them at about 69% of base, not the post-assessment 75%.

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Now, school districts will do the same  in the next 10 business days.

In this context, to "split" the rate means setting a higher tax rate on commercial properties  or bringing them closer to previous year's share of tax burden  while setting a lower rate for residents with the difference. This new law would require such rates be at least equal, that the commercial rate not be more than two times the residential and that districts forecast the same revenue. District chief financial officers said the timeline is doable.

Ahead of the drama, newly ellected Rep. Alonna Berry poses for a photo with her family at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025

DEEPER: Delaware Gov. Meyer signs bill to let school districts split tax rates in New Castle County

With commercial properties taking back some of the burden, this could bring some substantial relief to homeowner bills. But, it will not erase bill increases altogether. It will extend the general deadline to pay by two months, to Nov. 30.

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Some Republican lawmakers expressed concern that higher rates on commercial properties would stunt business growth. Democratic sponsor Rep. Kim Williams cautioned this bill is meant to soften the resident impact this year alone, as more work is needed on education funding.

Look out for the new bill "supplements" from New Castle County. This will have an adjusted amount to pay. Anyone who overpays based on previous billing would be entitled to a property tax credit, according to the bill, or they can submit a written request for a direct refund. The county will be shaking this out.

Will you still need a payment plan? Refund? Look out

Legislation for payment plans on school taxes will now allow at least three equal payments for the 2025-26 tax year. It's a stopgap measure to ensure school districts receive funding, while also alleviating some pain for residents. Payment plans will be developed by the counties soon and will apply for 2025 tax bills only.

And as for thousands of outstanding appeals in the county, a plan for rebates may have been one of the smoothest votes of the night.

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Payment plan needed? Bill for payment plans for Delaware school taxes signed into law

The new law looks to require direct refunds for anyone who overpays on a successfully appealed property assessment. New Castle County has more than 5,200 appeals to chug through, and many who filed an appeal won't be through the process by the new tax payment deadline of Nov. 30.

The county originally had a few plans for taxpayers on appeal, one involving credit. If passed, the county would be required to refund an overpaid bill if the difference is more than $50. If less, it can be a credit for the next tax bill.

What about that 10%? School boost remains

Rep. Michael Smith speaks as Rep. Daniel Short, at left, and Rep. Bryan Shupe listen during special session due to sticker shock of property tax reassessments at Legislative Hall in Dover on Aug. 12, 2025.

A bill that would have eliminated the optional 10% boost to school revenue was brought up by Rep. Michael Smith  but it was never formally read on the night of Aug. 12.

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The New Castle County Republican threw a Hail Mary late in House proceedings on the night of Aug. 12 by motioning to suspend rules and have his bill heard, but it was voted down. The bill would've banned the 10% boost from reassessments, which has already been factored into approved budgets for school districts up and down Delaware, unless utilized to reach an overall revenue neutral position.

"If you look closely, none of this is about reassessment," Smith said to reporters on the House floor. "It's about how we fund our schools."

The law allowing schools to increase taxes 10% on newly assessed values has been on the books since the 1970s. But, notably, there has not been many reassessments since. The boost applies to overall tax revenue, not a rate jumping tenfold. In New Castle County, every district took some portion, as did most districts across the state.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS CAN CHANGE TAX RATES Delaware Gov. Meyer signs bill to let school districts split tax rates in New Castle County

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This joined other GOP-backed bills taking aim at the 10% question or delaying time between assessments. When asked why Delaware school districts should have a degree of it, as opposed to a referendum every few years, House Minority Whip Rep. Jeff Spiegelman explained his caucus' bills intend to spread out the process.

Delaware education union heads decked in red shirts packed the House gallery on the afternoon of Aug. 12 to watch.

With major implications on short-term school funding on the agenda, they echoed that if even the 10% boost did not exist, the Legislature would still be in Dover for this emergency session. They said people's suddenly higher bills are the result of the assessment itself, not a perceived "money grab."

President of the Indian River Education Association Blair Catlin Brown said schools were an easy target to blame for higher taxes.

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In Indian River, if you take the 10% away, what we can't afford to get through the year, she said outside of the House floor gallery on the evening of Aug. 12. We don't understand why we became the villains and all of this.

Email any questions or experiences regarding the 2025 Delaware property tax reassessment to Shane Brennan and Kelly Powers at slbrennan@delawareonline.com and kepowers@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: What property owners need to know about new tax law, special session
An influential group of House Republicans has invited a chief architect of the hard-right push for deep Medicaid spending cuts to brief congressional aides Thursday as GOP leaders quietly map out a possible second party-line reconciliation package.

Brian Blase, president of the Paragon Health Institute, will address a staff briefing on health care reform hosted by the Republican Study Committee, according to an invitation obtained by POLITICO.

The RSC, composed of 189 House conservatives, has been a key force pushing for a follow-on to President Donald Trumps big, beautiful bill that was signed into law last month. The group has invited several conservative experts to address staffers in recent weeks though it has yet to endorse any specific health care policies for any forthcoming package.

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Those staff-level meetings continue as House GOP leaders try to plot a way forward amid skepticism over whether another sprawling domestic policy bill is even possible given the difficulties Republicans had coming to agreement over the first one.

House leaders discussed the topic with GOP chairs right before the chamber left for August recess, according to two Republicans granted anonymity to discuss the private gathering, tasking them with compiling lists of possible spending cuts and other ideas.

What policies might be addressed in a second package is far from settled, though some House GOP factions are discussing further slashing Medicaid as well as possibly targeting Medicare funding.

Blase was allied with conservative hard-liners earlier this year in pushing for significant cuts to Medicaid in the first GOP package. He was the initial author of a letter arguing for structural changes to the program that Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) and 19 other hard-right members later sent to their House Republican colleagues.

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An RSC spokesperson declined to comment on Thursdays briefing. But a person granted anonymity to discuss plans in advance said the meeting is set to cover enhanced tax credits for Affordable Care Act health insurance premiums, which are due to expire at the end of the year, as well as rules governing the percentage of Medicaid expenditures covered by the federal government and reimbursed to states.

The briefing will also cover the 340B drug discount program; proposals to even out Medicare payments for outpatient services, known as site neutral payments; plans for expanding tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts for medical expenses; and arrangements that allow employers to reimburse employees for insurance premiums and medical expenses with pre-tax dollars.

Blase, who did not respond to a request for comment, served on the White House National Economic Council during Trumps first term. He and other conservative health wonks launched Paragon in 2021, and it has rapidly gained influence in GOP policy circles. Former Paragon staffers are now top health aides to Speaker Mike Johnson and President Donald Trump.

Blase will be joined by two other Paragon officials at the RSC briefing: Demetrios Kouzoukas, who is the director of Paragons Medicare Reform Initiative, and Gabrielle Minarik, a program manager. Kouzoukas, a former executive in UnitedHealths Medicare arm, also served as chief executive of the Medicare program at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services during the first Trump administration.

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While Republicans reaped hundreds of billions of dollars of cuts from Medicaid in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, they stopped short of the more ambitious changes that Blase and conservative lawmakers have advocated. Now, even senior Republicans acknowledge their options for new spending offsets are drastically limited, and both Medicaid and Medicare are likely to emerge as tempting targets as talks proceed. Its clear were scraping the bottom of the barrel for cuts, said one Republican with direct knowledge of the early conversations around a second GOP-only package.

But any push to further slash federal health care spending  let alone the politically explosive issue of Medicare changes  is likely to be met by fierce pushback by vulnerable House Republicans as well as some more conservative-leaning members. Some Senate Republicans, meanwhile, are deeply skeptical a second reconciliation package would have enough support to pass  especially absent a major, unifying centerpiece akin to the tax cuts embedded in the first package.

Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), chair of the business-friendly Main Street Caucus, recently warned there would be severe pushback to pursuing deeper Medicaid cuts in a second reconciliation bill. Flood said his group of 83 House Republicans supported implementing Medicaid work requirements and SNAP food aid changes in the first bill  savings that have now essentially been exhausted.

Even House GOP leaders are unsure where Republicans will be able to successfully push through another party-line package this fall. A major fight over government funding looms, as well as the expiration of the ACA tax credits  which could lead to drastic hikes in some Americans health insurance premiums.
SUGARLOAF, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  A proposal for a plastic pyrolysis plant by Alterra Energy has been withdrawn.

A public records request revealed a letter from Alterra Energy to Sugarloaf Township Board of Supervisors that officially withdrew the proposal for the facility.

Acre baseball, softball facility to open next year

The pyrolysis plant would have brought in large amounts of plastic waste for high-heat processing to be recycled, a process that critics say could potentially release toxic pollutants.

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Residents of the area and environmental advocates celebrated the withdrawal of the plans. Pyrolysis is bad for our health and perpetuates the plastics crisis by creating more demand for harmful plastics when we should be doing the opposite, said Sean Hoffmann, legislative director of Clean Air Action. We all want good jobs and economic growth in our communities, but that shouldnt come at the cost of our health and our land.

According to the letter from Alterra Energy, the reason for withdrawing the proposal stems from a deal change with the landowner of the proposed build site. Alterra Energy alleges that the landowner instead intends to market the land to a potential data center project.

Alterra Energy says it intends to look for other sites in Pennsylvania to construct the facility.

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In its ongoing efforts to reach out to veterans and reaffirm its enduring commitment to their welfare, the Indian Army has conducted a series of programmes across Upper Assam, including Lekhapani, Digboi and Rupai. These initiatives stand as heartfelt tributes to the selfless service of ex-servicemen and Veer Naris, while addressing their key needs and concerns. The programme at Lekhapani brought together veterans and their families, offering a range of services including a medical and dental camp, a grievance redressal cell and a daily essentials stall. On-the-spot medical check-ups, dental consultations, advice and medication were provided. A special interaction was held with Assam Rifles veterans, many of whom did not possess Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) cards; they were briefed on its benefits and encouraged to obtain them at the earliest. At Digboi and Rupai, the outreach saw participation from veterans, including Veer Naris, reflecting the spirit and unity within the military fraternity. A dedicated Help Desk (Information Counter) was set up at all venues to guide attendees on welfare schemes, including those specifically for Veer Naris, assist with documentation such as Pension Payment Order (PPO) and System for Pension Administration (Raksha) (SPARSH), provide information on employment opportunities for ex-servicemen, and address grievances in a time-bound manner. These programmes also served as platforms for regular interaction between serving personnel and veterans, facilitating constructive feedback and strengthening the support network for ex-servicemen. Veterans were briefed on the latest medical schemes vis-a-vis older ones, enabling them to make informed decisions for their health and welfare. The enthusiasm, camaraderie and gratitude expressed by the attendees underscored the unbreakable bond between the Indian Army and those who once wore the uniform with pride, reaffirming the motto: Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier. (ANI)
The Colorado Capitol Building on June 25, 2025. (Delilah Brumer/Colorado Newsline)

As Texas Republicans redraw the states congressional map to their advantage and prompt other states to consider rare mid-decade redistricting attempts, two Coloradans want the governor to have emergency authority to alter Colorados districts to restore partisan balance in Congress.

Legislative Council Staff received an initiative filing about emergency congressional redistricting on Monday, filed by Brandon Cary and Jorge Rodriguez. The proposed constitutional amendment, which would be on the 2026 ballot if it clears the procedural gauntlet of approval, would allow the governor to suspend the states independent redistricting commission and appoint a temporary body to redraw congressional districts to respond to any national redistricting imbalances.

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Texas is taking direct orders from the (U.S Department of Justice) and the current White House administration to do this redistricting, Cary, who lives in Wheat Ridge, wrote in an email to Colorado Newsline. Other states can counterbalance their efforts, and in the event nothing goes farther, legislation like what we are putting forth will only be a tool of preparedness that will hopefully not have to be used.

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Texas Republicans began supporting the idea of new political boundaries in July after President Donald Trump pushed state lawmakers to tweak districts to pick up more GOP seats in Congress. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott put redistricting on a special session agenda that also includes relief for recent floods, and the state Senate approved new congressional lines on Tuesday. Texas House Democrats left the state to deny that chamber a quorum to also approve the maps.

The move has prompted leaders in other states, including Democratic-led California, with its 52 districts, to push for redistricting to offset the Republican advantage created in Texas.

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Typically, states redistrict every 10 years using fresh census data.

Trigger laws have use in our federalized system, and this law will coexist with Colorado's independent redistricting panel in an emergency capacity to be used sparingly and only when necessary in response to overreach from other states.

 Brandon Cary, proponent of redistricting amendment

The proposed law in Colorado would be triggered if substantial evidence exists that one or more states have enacted congressional redistricting plans that result in severe partisan imbalance, according to the initiative text. The governor could declare emergency authority or a majority of the Legislature could enact it.

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Trigger laws have use in our federalized system, and this law will coexist with Colorados independent redistricting panel in an emergency capacity to be used sparingly and only when necessary in response to overreach from other states, Cary wrote.

Colorados independent, nonpartisan redistricting commissions  one for congressional districts, one for state legislative districts  were formed by two constitutional amendments in 2018. They drew their first maps in 2021. Seven other states have independent commissions. The majority of states empower their Legislature, and therefore the political party in charge, to draw and approve maps.

Colorado currently has four U.S. House districts represented by Democrats and four represented by Republicans.

The idea for the initiative grew from an informal Reddit chat thread, Cary and Rodriguez said, and there is now a group chat of supporters.

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The amount of interest and encouragement weve gotten, even without much formal political or organizing experience, is honestly astounding. We know this is going to be a long process, Rodriguez, who lives in Loveland, said.

The two said they have not connected with any state lawmakers about about running a bill to refer the measure to next years ballot, an alternative method of proposing the amendment to voters.

The initiative has a review and comment hearing from legislative staff later this month. Then, it will head to the states Title Board to be considered for a title. Backers would then need to get approved for a petition and gather about 125,000 signatures, from at least 2% of registered voters in each of the states 35 state Senate districts, to land on the ballot. Constitutional amendments then need 55% approval to pass.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Many across Dayton are wondering why Hershalls caregivers are not facing more charges in relation to the 7-year-olds death.

Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck Jr. says the investigation into Hershall Creachbaums death is still active and ongoing.

Hershalls mother, Ashley Johnson, and her boyfriend, Michael Kendrick, are facing charges involving his death, after his remains were found in July near US-35.

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Kendrick is facing three counts of Gross Abuse of Corpse, and two counts of Tampering with Evidence, while Johnson is currently only facing an Obstructing Justice charge.

The Dayton community has been wondering why the two are not facing more charges, considering what has been shared about the case.

But the prosecutors office says forensics are still working to uncover Hershalls exact cause of death. Until the coroner releases the official cause of death, charges cannot yet be filed.

I understand the publics frustration with the length of time such a tragic and heart wrenching case might take, said Prosecutor Heck. However, as in all criminal cases, we must follow the law and make certain we have all of the available evidence before proceeding.

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Father, community honor 7-year-old boy with bridge memorial

Heck says the forensic investigation could take several weeks.

Once the cause of death is finalized and the case is reviewed, Heck says he plans to seek the maximum possible sentence for those responsible.

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Prosecutors will take no further action against a Florida sheriff's deputy in the arrest of a Black college student pulled from his car and beaten by officers during a February traffic stop.

The actions of Officer D. Bowers of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office did not constitute a crime, according to an investigative report released by the State Attorney's Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida.

A video showing officers punching and dragging William McNeil from his car sparked nationwide outrage, though Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters has said theres more to the story than the cellphone video that went viral online and that McNeil was repeatedly asked to exit his vehicle.

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In the investigative memo released Wednesday, prosecutors called the cellphone footage incomplete in scope" and said Bowers made a lawful traffic stop when he pulled McNeil over and that Bowers' use of force was justified.

The State Attorneys Office has reviewed this matter to determine whether any of Officer Bowers actions constitute a crime. We conclude they do not, the report reads.

According to the report, Bowers stopped McNeil for failing to turn on his headlights and buckle his seatbelt, after seeing his SUV parked outside a house the officer was surveilling for drug activity.

Based on a review of officer body camera footage, interviews the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office conducted with the officers involved and statements by McNeil, prosecutors said Bowers gave McNeil a dozen lawful commands," which he disobeyed.

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After Bowers pulled him over, McNeil questioned the stop and declined to provide his license and registration. 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.

It is the officers body-worn camera footage that provides the additional needed context of the circumstances preceding, surrounding, and following McNeils arrest," the report reads.

A statement from McNeils lawyers, Ben Crump and Harry Daniels, called the report clearing the deputy little more than an attempt to justify the actions of Officer Bowers and his fellow officers after the fact. Crump is a Black civil rights attorney who has gained national prominence representing victims of police brutality and vigilante violence.

Frankly, we expected nothing less especially after Sheriff Waters announced their conclusions more than three weeks before the report was issued, the statement said. Since they are unwilling to seek justice, we will have to request that the U.S. Department of Justice investigate this incident and the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office.

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Previously, Crump has fiercely criticized prosecutors' finding that officers did not commit any criminal wrongdoing, saying his client remained calm while the officers who are trained to deescalate tense situations were the ones escalating violence. Crump said the case harkened back to the Civil Rights movement, when Black people were often attacked when they tried to assert their rights.

___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Aug. 12ROCHESTER  Protesters disrupted the early stages of an event on Tuesday sponsored by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that featured GOP Congressman Brad Finstad as the headline speaker, signaling disagreement with his vote for a tax-and-spending bill signed by President Donald Trump last month.

On five occasions, people from the audience jumped from their seats and began yelling at Finstad as he began his address. They were protesting the cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, in Trump's signature legislation.

"Stop the cuts," shouted one woman, in reference to the reductions to SNAP, as she was ushered out of Mayo Civic Center by security.

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It was Finstad's first public appearance in Rochester since casting a vote in favor of the bill that extended Trump's 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The legislation made most of those tax cuts permanent, while increasing spending for border security, defense and energy production.

The bill is partially paid for by significant cuts to health care and nutrition programs, including Medicaid and SNAP. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $3.4 trillion to federal deficits over the next 10 years and leave millions without health insurance. Finstad disputed those forecasts during his Rochester appearance.

Early in his remarks, Finstad defended the changes to Medicaid, a joint federal-state program that helps lower-income people cover medical costs. He noted that the new law specifically protects "mothers, children, people with disabilities" from changes made to the program. He also added that funding to Medicaid will increase over the next decade.

"The bill also increases funding over 10 years by over $20 billion, not cuts but actually increases funding," Finstad said. "But we do it in a way where we try to target those dollars to those most in need."

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Finstad said the legislation also takes a "crack at waste, fraud and abuse," arguing that 1.2 million Americans are dual-enrolled in Medicaid and so are "essentially siphoning funds that could go to our neighbors in need," he told the audience.

Some 60 demonstrators gathered outside Mayo Civic Center to voice their opposition to Finstad. They held aloft tombstone-shaped signs that read, "Brad Cut Medicaid for 143,000 in his District," "We have a Constitution, Not a King," and "Brad is Bad for Business." Some passing vehicles honked in approval and a band played music.

"I don't see how this man can sleep at night knowing they're taking away Medicaid and the SNAP program from people that truly need it," said one of the protesters, Lisa Dillion of Rochester. "I just think that is totally wrong."

Protesters had also gathered in the skyway adjoining the Civic Center, but were told by an official that they could not demonstrate there because it was private property, according to one of the protesters.

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John Kirchner, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Midwest Region, said the legislation incorporated many of the chamber's priorities, including maintaining a 21% corporate tax rate and pass-through deductions for small businesses. It also delivered on R&D tax credits for businesses and maintained a "competitive international tax system."

"We hear our opponents speaking loudly about what's wrong with this tax bill," Kirchner said, saying that without the legislation, Trump's tax cuts would have expired and raised taxes by trillions of dollars. "So we as a business community need to do a good job of talking about what this means for our businesses."

Yet Kirchner said the current economy is not projected to grow as fast as it did in the second half of the 20th century. From 1950 to 2010, the economy grew by 3.4% annually, while the rate of growth in the near term isn't expected to be as robust, only about 1.8%, Kirchner said.

While the difference may appear to be small, the cumulative effect in terms of spending power and quality of life can be profound. It goes to the heart of the question: Will our children inherit an economy that is stronger than that of the previous generation?

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An economy growing at 3% means a person born today will see the economy double by the time they reach their early 20s. If it only grows by 2%, that person will be in their 30s by the time the economy doubles in size.

"We've made a lot of progress on the tax front," Kirchner said. "I would argue that maybe we're not making as much progress and holding ourselves back on the trade front."

Without specifically mentioning Trump or the heightened tariffs imposed on many countries, Kirchner called tariffs a "tax on businesses and consumers." Consumers face an average effective tariff rate of 18.6%, the highest since 1933, according to the Budget Lab at Yale. In 2023, it was 2.4%.

"We recognize that there needs to be a reset with a lot of trade relationships with other countries around the world, but we want that to be done smartly and in a way that can expand our economic growth and not hinder it," Kirchner said.

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When asked specifically about tariffs, Finstad acknowledged the uncertainty that Trump's aggressive tariff policy has created, but noted that it has prompted countries to lower trade barriers. The U.S., for example, is selling rice to Japan and he noted numerous other trade deals with countries as well.

"I'm probably more of a scalpel guy than a sledgehammer guy, but we have elected the ultimate disrupter in chief," Finstad said. "As someone who has always been supportive of free trade, but it has to be free trade. And in a lot of these cases, we've had one hand tied behind our back and this is an opportunity for us to reset the deck."
Protests and vigils have taken place around the world in support of Palestinians suffering in Gaza and to pay tribute to the four Al Jazeera journalists and two freelancers killed by Israel in the besieged enclave in a deliberate targeted assassination on Sunday.

Journalists, students, activists and members of civil society  notably in Cape Town, South Africa; Manila, the Philippines; and London, the United Kingdom  held the protests on Wednesday to call on their governments to put pressure on Israel to allow international media into Gaza and bring an end to Israels genocidal war there.

Late on Sunday, Al Jazeera correspondents Anas al-Sharif and Mohammed Qreiqeh, along with cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Mohammed Noufal, were killed in an Israeli strike that had targeted their media tent located by al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

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Al-Sharif had been one of Gazas most recognisable faces for his constant reporting of the reality on the ground since Israels war on Gaza began following the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attacks on southern Israel.

Israels war on Gaza has killed at least 61,722 people and wounded 154,525. An estimated 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the October 7, 2023, attacks in southern Israel, and more than 200 were taken captive.

Nearly 270 Palestinian journalists and media workers have been killed by Israel since the war began.

South Africa

Members of civil society and journalists gathered at St Georges Cathedral in Cape Town on Wednesday to express their anger at al-Sharifs murder, sporting placards with one reading your voice was louder than their bombs.

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The location is significant, said Al Jazeeras Fahmida Miller, reporting from Cape Town, as its been an important signal against oppression here in South Africa, especially during the decades of apartheid.

The people gathered here have condemned what Israel has done, Miller said.

They want the entry of international journalists into Gaza in addition to the work being done by Palestinian journalists, she said. People here are angry.

Journalist Zubeida Jaffer told Miller, I was one of the journalists who were targeted, you know those media that documented apartheid, so this really resonates with me.

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Miller said, The South African government has previously condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza, specifically in 2022 when Shireen Abu Akleh was killed. The South African government had said it was a violation of international law.

Abu Akleh was a Palestinian-American journalist who worked as a reporter for 25 years for Al Jazeera, before she was killed by Israeli forces while covering a raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

In December 2023, South Africa brought a case before the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip.





United Kingdom

Reporters belonging to the UK branches of the National Union of Journalists paid their respects on Wednesday to the slain Al Jazeera workers outside the prime ministers residence at Number 10 Downing Street, said Al Jazeeras Jonah Hull, reporting from London.

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The reporters, holding placards bearing the names of journalists killed since Israels war on Gaza began, read out the names of each journalist that appeared on their placard and symbolically, recited Islamic funeral prayers for those killed on Sunday, said Hull.

Those present have really condemned the British government  talking about its complicity in what is going on in Gaza, for not doing more and speaking out more, said Hull.

While British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday talked about his grave concern about the killings of the Al Jazeera journalists, those present on Wednesday want outright condemnation and nothing less, said Hull.

They also want the government to take firm steps to pressure the Israeli government to ensure the safety of journalists in Gaza, importantly to allow international journalists into Gaza to be able to work freely there and for an independent investigation to be carried out by the International Criminal Court in order to provide justice and accountability for those involved.

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Last week, Starmer condemned Israels plans to take over Gaza City, saying they were wrong and will only bring more bloodshed. He has also announced that the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel meets certain conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and reviving the prospect of a two-state solution.

Philippines

Students, campus journalists and activists gathered at the University of the Philippines on Wednesday to express outrage at the killing of the Al Jazeera journalists.

They say the attack  is a deliberate cover-up by Israel of its crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip, said Al Jazeeras Barnaby Lo, reporting from Manila.

They also describe the accusation that Anas al-Sharif, one of the most prominent voices reporting from within Gaza, is a member of Hamas is baseless, said Lo, noting that protesters say this is an age-old tactic used by governments who are bent on silencing the truth.

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Any imperialist power  will choose a scapegoat to use as a pretext, however false it is, campus journalist Karl Patrick Suyat told Lo.

These protesters also gathered to urge the international community to ramp up pressure on Israel to stop its genocide, including for the Philippine government to cut its trade and defence ties with Israel, said Lo.

The Philippines is the third-largest importer of Israeli weapons.

In June, the Philippines voted in favour of a United Nations General Assembly resolution demanding an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza. This resolution also condemned Israels use of starvation as a weapon of war and called for Israel to lift its blockade on humanitarian aid in Gaza.





Israel

A small group of local and international journalists took part in a vigil in Tel Aviv on Wednesday.

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Unfortunately, the vast majority of Israeli society and some mainstream journalists were celebrating this assassination, this targeted killing of the Al Jazeera journalists, Oren Ziv, an Israeli journalist working at the independent +972 Magazine, told Al Jazeera from Tel Aviv.

Ziv explained that he and others wanted to hold this vigil because they wanted to express our anger and solidarity with the Palestinian journalists in Gaza that are doing an incredible job under very hard circumstances. And we also wanted to show that there are people here that oppose these targeted killings and assassinations.

Ziv added that he believes Israel deliberately targeted these journalists.

We think this [targeted killing] happens not by mistake but as a step to try to silence the only journalists that are there reporting to us, to international media, theyre the only voice we have there as Israel has blocked international media for almost two years from entering the Gaza Strip.

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And that the timing of the assassinations was not coincidental.

I think its done on purpose ahead of the so-called occupation of Gaza City to make sure nobody is there to document and pass to the world these voices and images from there.

Last week, Israels security cabinet approved a plan by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the military occupation of Gaza City, located in the north of the Palestinian enclave.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  Two community meetings are scheduled to discuss the proposed Downtown Honolulu Business Improvement District (BID), an effort to expand and update the current Fort Street Mall Special Improvement District.

Checks bounce after Straits shuts its doors

The first meeting, for area businesses, will be held Tuesday, August 12, at 12:30 p.m. at Pickles Forte.

A second meeting, for area residents, is set for Thursday, August 14, at 5:30 p.m., also at Pickles Forte.

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Bill 51 would expand the district to cover a larger section of downtown, from Nuuanu Avenue to South Beretania Street, and Richards Street to Nimitz Highway, plus an adjacent commercial block near Queen Street.

The updated BID would focus on enhanced cleaning, safety patrols, landscaping, and additional amenities such as lighting, signage, and street furniture. It could also help coordinate events and activities to draw more people into the area.

The proposed $1.9 million annual budget would be funded through special assessments on non-residential property owners. Residential properties would be exempt but still benefit from the services.

Supporters say the effort is about revitalizing downtown and changing public perception.

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Were trying to bring a lot of residents back into town and remind people of all the cool things that are here. The Arts District, the cool restaurants and bars. Its just a matter of reminding people how much is down here and its not crime and drugs, said Robby Kelley, executive vice president of Avalon Development Company.

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If approved, the district would be managed by a nonprofit board of property owners, city representatives, and community members, with a visible safety and maintenance presence seven days a week.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Aug. 13National Grid customers may soon be paying hundreds of dollars more per year for the same electric and gas service they're getting today, if the state's Public Service Commission approves the utility's request to hike rates by over 25% over the course of three years.

On Thursday, the PSC will vote on whether the British-owned utility can charge its customers up to 36% more for gas, and 28% more for electricity. Phased in over three years, the first rate hike would come next month, adding about $22 per month to the average power and gas customer's bill. The result would be another $1 billion in revenue for National Grid by April of 2027.

The British company based in London, which purchased the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation in 2000, has reported steady profits for years and reported it made about 20% more in pre-tax revenue last year.

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New Yorkers already pay more than the national average for their electric and gas services by about 38%, although New York's power costs are outpaced by higher prices in New England and Hawaii.

The rate hikes going before the PSC on Thursday are considered a consensus plan, negotiated between state officials, National Grid, electrical unions and other stakeholders. It's likely a smaller increase than National Grid originally sought, and if approved will replace the May 2024 rate plan that called for smaller price increases last year.

Along with the higher energy bills, National Grid says they will add three additional customer advocates to work with their ratepayers on issues related to their power bills. Other additions the company says will come with the higher bills are not new; they include already long-standing and legally mandated programs like the low-income bill discount program, a budget plan, and partnerships with low income housing and veterans organizations to offer assistance to needier customers.

The company also plans to remove about 112 miles of leaking natural gas pipes in the next three years, invest in reliability for the upstate power and gas networks, and add around 500 jobs to support continued operations.

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The proposed rate hike has some firm opposition. North country Assemblyman Scott A. Gray, R-Watertown, on Wednesday said he anticipates the PSC will approve the rate hike, which he said is an affront to New Yorkers.

"Albany's 'affordability conversation' is pure political theater," Gray said in a statement. "While families struggle with rising utility bills, housing, insurance and childcare costs, the Governor's appointed Public Service Commissioners keep rubber-stamping rate hikes. This abdication of responsibility must stop, and I'll work to make sure New Yorkers aren't priced out of their own state. I urge the commission to vote no on such a substantial increase request."

Gray said the increase is "unconscionable" in the face of the ongoing affordability crisis in New York, where 226,000 households in the National Grid system alone are already behind on their bills, owing a combined $326 million.

Gray pointed to the requirements utilities are being asked to meet under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which in 2019 set aggressive climate goals that state agencies and private operators were required to fulfill. Even now, as Governor Kathleen C. Hochul admits the goals set under that law are not attainable, the requirements on privately owned power operators remain and are often cited as the reason for rate hikes.

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The New York chapter of the AARP is also opposed, concerned that seniors on fixed incomes will be unable to afford ever-increasing power bills. In June, as National Grid and state officials started negotiating their agreement, the group called on Hochul to publicly oppose the rate hikes, and has called on the PSC to vote no on the increases.

"The governor is working to make New York an affordable state to live and age, and we're deeply concerned that those efforts will be undermined by the approval of these enormous increases on households across upstate New York," AARP New York state director Beth Finkel said.

The PSC will meet in Albany on Thursday morning to consider the rate hikes.
A Canadian animal rescue thought of a clever way to draw attention to their adoptable pets.

Dubbed the "Slang Litter," six puppies went viral for their Gen alpha-inspired names, including one named "Ohio," who is the only puppy that has been adopted.

Funds for Furry Friends still has five more puppies that await adoption: Sigma, Rizz, Skibidi, Cap, and Gyat. Ohio was the first and (as of Aug. 13) only puppy to be adopted from the rescue, according to the organization's website. Their Instagram post from mid-July received more than 400,000 likes in one month.

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"When we heard there were six tiny, squishy, helpless pups sitting in the poundalone, confused, and likely judging our millennial slangwe dropped everything and jumped into action," the organization's Instagram caption reads. "Nothing screams 2025 like a group of pups named after TikTok vocabulary we only half understand."

'Ohio', 'Rizz' and more puppies named after Gen Alpha TikTok slang

The other five puppies from the litter, who were born May 21, were still available for adoption as of Aug. 13. The description, written in true Gen Alpha fashion, describes the mixed breeds puppies as "a squad of pups who are all vibes, no cap, and 100% ready to make your home feel like a trend."

If you want to adopt the pups for yourself, Funds for Furry Friends only allows animals to be adopted in person and won't ship puppies. The charity is located in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, which is about 1,150 miles from Ohio's northwest corner, per Google Maps.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Puppies named for Gen Alpha slang, 'Ohio' first to be adopted
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Tens of thousands of Purple Martins have landed in Nashville as they migrate from as far north as Canada all the way to South America.

The sky is just absolutely full of them, Jess Tremblay, a naturalist with Metro Parks, told News 2. Some people describe them as kind of a bird tornado.

Tremblay said this yearly pit stop in Music City is an opportunity for the birds to rest and refuel. Every morning, Tremblay said the birds will disperse at the same time to forage for food, which actually show up like microbursts on weather radars.

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As the sun sets, the birds swoop lower and lower in the sky to return to the trees, which makes for a fascinating sight at night.

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It is absolutely amazing to watch all of the birds circling up in the sky and come down all around the same time, Tremblay added.

Aside from seeing these birds in real life, a tell-tale sign thy may have been in the area is lots of bird poop, which can typically be seen around the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville.

Tremblay said the purple martins tend to pick roosts near water that have a lot of light, making Nashvilles neon lights and proximity to the Cumberland River a perfect pit stop on their way down south before winter comes.

A good portion of the roost are first-year birds, so essentially baby birds that are just old enough now to be able to make the flight, Tremblay explained.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Tremblay added that having a good roost helps ensure a safe flight. The Warner Parks Nature Center has even put GPS tracking on some of the birds. Their data shows purple martins end up all over South America by September in places like Costa Rica and Brazil.

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If you are interested, you can watch the birds from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday night in downtown Nashville at the Walk of Fame Park.

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Russian president Vladimir Putin held a phone call with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to reaffirm their close relationship ahead of his summit with Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday.

Mr Putin and Mr Kim spoke on Tuesday, pledging closer contact in the future and discussing issues of mutual concern, according to North Koreas state media, the Korean Central News Agency reported.

Their call comes as the Russian leader is set to meet Mr Trump on Friday in Alaska for the first time since the US presidents return to the White House to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine, a meeting that would be closely watched by world leaders.

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During the phone call, Mr Putin discussed the preparations for the Alaska summit with Mr Trump, sharing "information in the context of the upcoming talks with US president Donald Trump," the Kremlin said.

However, the North Korean statement did not mention the discussion about Mr Putin and Mr Trumps talks.

The two leaders "reaffirmed their commitment to the further development of friendship relations, good-neighbourliness and cooperation," the Kremlin said in a statement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un toast during a reception at the Mongnangwan Reception House in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Russian president highly appreciated once again the support provided by North Korea and the the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by service personnel of the Korean People's Army in liberating Kursk region in western Russia in the war against Ukraine, KCNA reported.

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North Korea had sent around 15000 troops to fight in the war in Ukraine and supplied large quantities of military equipment, including artillery and ballistic missiles, in support of Putins war efforts against Ukraine, according to South Korean assessments.

Mr Kim has also agreed to send thousands of military construction workers and deminers to Russias Kursk region, a deployment South Korean intelligence believes could happen soon.

North Korea and Russia have strongly supported each other since Mr Putin launched his so-called special military operation in Ukraine in February 2021. The two economically and diplomatically isolated countries have since signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership treaty to strengthen their military alliance.

Mr Putin made a trip to North Korea in June 2024, his first visit to the country in 24 years, when the two signed the treaty.
The programme, inaugurated by Vice Chancellor & Chairman of the Anti-Ragging Committee Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain, saw enthusiastic participation from all students and faculty members.

Speaking at the event, officials highlighted that in the history of the university, no ragging incident has ever been reported. The institution strictly follows the provisions of the 2009 anti-ragging law and University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations.

Moreover, university authorities emphasised that whenever students from outside join Tripura University, they are extended all possible support by peers and staff. "Our campus is united against ragging, and we are continuously working to maintain a joyful, safe, and inclusive environment," said a university spokesperson.

The rally, organised by the anti-ragging committee, carried the message "Say No to Ragging, Yes to Joyful Campus," underscoring the institution's zero-tolerance policy towards ragging. (ANI)
The Kyiv Independents Kollen Post sits down with Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and political scientist, to discuss the upcoming high-level talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, scheduled for Aug. 15 in Alaska, as well as both sides strategies for the meeting. McFaul contrasts the negotiation process under the Trump and Barack Obama administrations and explains why Trump will have a stronger position with Putin if he applies secondary sanctions and continues U.S. military assistance to Ukraine.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin has held a phone conversation with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the progress of the war in Ukraine and thank him for his support ahead of Friday's meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska.

Source: Bloomberg; Reuters, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA)

Details: The call took place on Tuesday 12 August and was conducted in a "warm comradely atmosphere". Putin thanked Kim for supporting his war against Ukraine and for the "bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit" of the Korean People's Army service personnel, particularly in the liberation of Russia's Kursk Oblast.

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Kim, in turn, said that "the DPRK would always remain faithful to the spirit of the DPRK-Russia treaty" signed in 2024 and would "fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future".

KCNA reported that both leaders had agreed to further strengthen their partnership and "make closer contact".

Background:

In April 2025, North Korea and Russia confirmed North Korean troops participation in Russias war against Ukraine, particularly on the Kursk front, which was partially controlled by Ukrainian forces at the time.

Both countries stated at the time that their cooperation is based on a June 2024 treaty signed by Putin and Kim Jong Un that includes a mutual defence clause.

During a visit to North Korea by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in July 2025, Kim told him that his country is ready to "unconditionally support" all Moscows actions, including those related to the war against Ukraine.

Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, told Bloomberg that North Korea supplies up to 40% of Russias ammunition for the war against Ukraine, as the partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow is deepening.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un on Aug. 12, the Kremlin announced, just days before Putin is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska.

Russia and North Korea have grown increasingly close in recent years, especially as Moscow has faced growing geopolitical isolation following its invasion of Ukraine.

In a readout of the call provided by the Kremlin, Putin "shared information" with Kim on the upcoming negotiations with Trump.

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The call comes just days before Putin will hold in-person negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine on Aug. 15. The Trump administration has promoted the meeting as a breakthrough in the peace process, though Ukrainian and European officials remain wary of negotiations that exclude Kyiv.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected handing over of any new territory, urging a ceasefire as the first step toward negotiations, a stance supported by Kyiv's European partners. Trump himself described the talks as a "feel-out meeting" to assess Russia's readiness for peace.

Ahead of the direct talks between Washington and Moscow, Putin has sought to rally Russia's allies around its maximalist demands for Ukraine's eastern territory, having previously held phone calls with the leaders of China, Belarus, and India on Aug. 8.

In addition to the discussions on upcoming negotiations, North Korean state media reported that the two leaders also spoke about "their will to strengthen cooperation in the future," under their previously signed Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement.

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The Kremlin echoed similar statements, stating that "both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further developing relations of friendship, neighbourliness, and cooperation across all areas," included in the agreement.

The conversation between Kim and Putin comes as Ukrainian officials have assessed that North Korea has additionally deployed 20,000 to 30,000 troops to Russia, in a move that is seen by experts as an attempt to gain a better negotiating position in Moscow's war in Ukraine.

North Korea, which sent around 11,000 soldiers to Russia's Kursk Oblast last year to help fend off a Ukrainian incursion, vowed in July that the country would "unconditionally" support Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.

Read also: About to be sold out  Fears mount in Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin meeting





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un have vowed to strengthen cooperation, days ahead of Putin's summit in Alaska with Donald Trump, Pyongyang's state media reported Wednesday.

Putin and Kim spoke by phone in a "warm comradely atmosphere" on Tuesday and confirmed "their will to strengthen cooperation in the future", the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

The call came three days before the summit between Putin and Trump, the first between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021, as Trump seeks to broker an end to Russia's more than three-year war in Ukraine.

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North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia's Kursk region as well as weapons to aid its war effort, with Kim offering Moscow his full support for the war during talks last month with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

During their call on Tuesday, Putin expressed appreciation for "the self-sacrificing spirit displayed by service personnel of the Korean People's Army in liberating Kursk", KCNA said.

Kim, in turn, pledged that North Korea would "fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too".

The Kremlin confirmed the phone call in a statement, adding that Putin had "shared information with Kim Jong Un in the context of the upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump".

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Trump is expected to press Russia to end the Ukraine war during their meeting in Alaska on Friday.

Russia and North Korea have forged closer ties in recent years, with the two countries signing a mutual defence pact last year, when Putin visited the reclusive state.

In April, North Korea confirmed for the first time that it had deployed a contingent of its soldiers to the front line in Ukraine, alongside Russian troops.

South Korean and Western intelligence agencies have said Pyongyang sent more than 10,000 soldiers to Russia's Kursk region in 2024, along with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems.

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Around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed and thousands more wounded fighting for Russia, Seoul has said.

- 'Positive spillover' -

The public disclosure of Kim and Putin's conversation signals the "intent to showcase their closeness to domestic and international audiences", Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP.

Should Trump and Putin agree on a Ukraine peace deal, "Putin could convey Kim's stance on Trump's North Korea-related interests, potentially including a conditional summit on nuclear disarmament," said Yang.

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Putin may also have been briefing Kim on matters of interest to the North Korean leader -- "mentoring him" in a way.

"If Russia-Ukraine peace talks gather momentum, they could have a positive spillover effect on US-North Korea and inter-Korean dialogue," he added.

During the US president's first term, Trump met Kim three times in a bid to reach an agreement on the denuclearisation of North Korea.

But since their second summit in Hanoi in 2019 fell apart over a failure to agree on what the North would get in return, Pyongyang has accelerated its nuclear programme.

Trump has talked up his "great relationship" with Kim, but the North Korean leader's powerful sister warned the United States late last month against pursuing denuclearisation, saying any push to deny the North its position as a nuclear weapons state would be "thoroughly rejected".

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Kim Yo Jong said the "personal relationship" between her brother and Trump was "not bad", but warned that it should not be used to "serve the purpose of denuclearisation" in any future talks.

Relations between the two Koreas had been at one of their lowest points in years under former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol, with Seoul taking a hard line towards Pyongyang.

However, newly elected President Lee Jae Myung has taken a different approach, saying he would seek talks with the North without preconditions.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed his "friendship" with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, ahead of his talks with Donald Trump on Friday.

It also comes as the BBC reported the "slave-like" condition facing thousands of North Korean workers sent to Russia to take part in construction projects.

Putin and Kim spoke on Tuesday, with the Russian leader praising Pyongyang's military support for his country's war against Ukraine.

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This week, Russia has been making fresh military advances in Ukraine, leading to a sudden thrust near the eastern town of Dobropillia and advancing 10km (six miles) in a short period of time.

Kim and Putin "reaffirmed their commitment to the further development of friendship relations, good-neighbourliness and cooperation," the Kremlin said in a statement.

Putin gave the North Korean leader an update on the Alaska summit's preparation, sharing with him "information in the context of the upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump," the Kremlin said.

The official North Korean statement did not mention this.

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Repeating his earlier statement, Putin "praised the assistance provided by [North Korea's] support during the liberation of the territory of the Kursk region", according to his office.

The Ukrainian army briefly invaded Russia's Kursk region last year in an unexpected offensive that showed Western allies its capability to fight back against Russia, which currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine's territories.

Putin and Kim spoke just days before the Russian leader is expected to travel to Alaska to meet Trump, his first face-to-face meeting with a US president since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The war, while causing Russia near-complete economic and diplomatic isolation from the West, has seen unprecedented collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang. At least 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to fight side by side with their Russian counterparts, according to Ukraine and South Korea.

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North Korea also provided Russia with missiles, artillery shells and labourers.

With many of Russia's men either killed or tied up fighting - or having fled the country - South Korean intelligence officials have told the BBC that Moscow is increasingly relying on North Korean workers.
US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will meet at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage in Alaska.

Source: CNN, citing White House sources

Details: The sources stated that the US and Russian sides had concluded after lengthy behind-the-scenes discussions that the only location that "would meet the security requirements for the historic meeting" was the Elmendorf-Richardson military base on the northern outskirts of Anchorage. Meanwhile, CNN noted that the White House had tried to avoid the scenario of hosting the Russian delegation on a US military base.

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Quote: "There were few places that would work for the sit-down, the people said, particularly given a war crimes warrant issued for Putins arrest by the International Criminal Court in 2023.

With that fact looming, Russia balked at a European destination  even in a city like Vienna or Geneva, where US and Russian leaders have met dating back to the Cold War. While Putin himself raised the United Arab Emirates as an 'entirely suitable' location, many inside the White House hoped to avoid another lengthy trek to the Middle East after Trumps visit in May."

Details: The sources said the final choice had come down to Alaska and Hungary, but Putin unexpectedly "agreed to a meeting on US soil  on land that once was part of the Russian empire".

"I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or even a third-party place," Trump emphasised this week. [N.B. Ukrainska Pravda does not recognise Putin as president  ed.]

Background:

On 8 August, Trump announced the planned meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August.

The White House said that the initiative to hold a meeting between Trump and Putin during Special Envoy Steve Witkoffs visit to Moscow had come from the Russian side.

Trump expects his meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August to be "constructive", but does not rule out negative outcomes.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the summit in Alaska is not a victory for the Kremlin and should not be seen as a concession to Putin. He said the meeting would be of an introductory nature, during which Trump wants to make his own assessment of the situation by looking "this guy in the eye".

Meanwhile Rubio admitted that the talks will be difficult, as "this war means a lot to Putin".

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Its the back-to-school season, and Putnam City Schools is welcoming students back tomorrow.

Theyre also welcoming some new technology to keep kids safe, including artificial intelligence that can detect guns.

The system is called ZeroEyes, and it uses cameras that are already at the schools, coupled with AI.

If a gun is brandished, pulled out of a jacket, backpack pocket, or whatever it may be, even if its at the very corner of a camera live feed, I think its .1% pixel, itll pick it up, said AJ Graffeo, Putnam City Schools Public Information Officer.

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LOCAL NEWS: AI technology could help lower amount of wrecks and fatalities in OK

At that point, if a gun is identified, images are sent to the 24-hour-a-day ZeroEyes Operation Center, which is staffed by military and law enforcement veterans.

The moment our algorithm says this thing is probably a gun, our human group will then verify if it is or is not and then be able to dispatch that the client correctly, said Sam Alaimo, co-founder, ZeroEyes.

If the threat is valid, alerts will be sent to those on campus and law enforcement within about three seconds.

The technology is also able to follow a person throughout the school.

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We know exactly where theyre at and how long theyve been there and possibly where theyre going, you know, so that just cuts down on, you know, the threat and getting there faster, said Graffeo.

ZeroEyes says its software has already proven successful.

This year, weve had dozens of arrests for guns that shouldnt be, AK 47 outside of elementary schools and for assault rifles in grocery stores, handguns on subway platforms, you name it, said Alaimo.

LOCAL NEWS: OKC police to use AI facial comparison technology to help identify suspects

Graffeo says the district was able to purchase ZeroEyes through a bond measure passed in February.

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Our community, our voters, our staff, families, everybody overwhelmingly passed that bond, and so that bond money is now here and we are able to implement these things, said Graffeo.

There are also some other new safety features this new school year.

Every school in the district now has weapon detection systems.

Theyve also adopted the I Love U Guys Foundation Standard Response Protocol.

Have certain words that everybody will know, everybody will use, and it just cuts down on, you know, maybe some confusion, and as far as communication goes, families are really going to see a difference in if a crisis occurs anywhere, said Graffeo.

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As for the new AI technology, the district says it will be used at several schools; however, they arent sharing exactly which ones because of safety reasons.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
(WHNT)  Municipal elections will be held across Alabama on Aug. 26.

Voters in North Alabama will be asked to decide on mayoral races, city council races, and, in some communities, school board races.

 News 19 is Your Local Election Headquarters! Click here for more election coverage 

In order to provide voters with detailed information about the candidates running for mayor in 12 North Alabama cities, News 19 sent out a number of candidate questionnaires starting in mid-July.

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We are going to post the answers we received over the next 10 days. Not every candidate responded, and that will be noted.

Some answers will also be edited for length, grammar or spelling reasons, but otherwise the content will be published as submitted. Viewer feedback is always welcome.

Not every candidate responded, despite multiple requests from News 19 for a reply.

The candidates for Decatur mayor are Councilman Billy Jackson, Kent Lawrence, Suzie Wiley and William Butch Matthews. Wiley and Matthews did not respond to our questions.

You can read Jacksons and Lawrences responses below:

1. Please provide a short biography

Jackson: Billy Jackson is a lifelong resident of Decatur, representing over five generations of deep community roots. A proud small business owner, Billy is married to a retired school principal, and together theyve raised two children and now enjoy time with their three grandchildren, all of whom still call Decatur home. Billy has served the city for 29 years as a dedicated City Councilman, bringing stability, experience, and leadership to every role hes taken on.

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Lawrence: I grew up in Decatur, Alabama, starting with a newspaper route at 10 and working my way up at McDonalds to Director of Operations, managing 10 restaurants. I owned TVW Electrical Supply for 27 years before selling it. Ive served in leadership roles with the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, and City of Decatur Planning Commission, earning awards like Small Business Person of the Year. Married to Mamie for nearly 40 years, we have two sons and two grandchildren. I attend St. Peter Missionary Baptist Church. Running for mayor in 2025, Ill focus on jobs, schools, infrastructure, and safety, keeping City Hall open to all.

2. What led you to run for Mayor?

Jackson: My decision to run for Mayor comes from a deep sense of commitment to our community and the work Ive invested over nearly three decades. I want to bring honesty, integrity, and core values back to our city government. This isnt just a campaign, its a calling to continue serving the place I love.

Lawrence: Im running for mayor of Decatur because I love this city. Its where I grew up and have spent my life working and serving. My experiencefrom rising through the ranks at McDonalds to owning TVW Electrical Supply for 27 yearshas equipped me with the leadership skills to take Decatur forward. Through decades of involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, and the City Planning Commission, Ive seen what our community needs: more jobs, better schools, improved infrastructure, and stronger public safety. I believe City Hall should be the peoples hall, and Im ready to listen and lead to ensure Decaturs best days are ahead.

3. What will be your top priority if you are elected?

Jackson: My top priority is to unite our divided city. Our community has been fractured. We need to unify around the issues that matter most to Decatur residents: quality schools, quality city services and infrastructure, and a plan for growth that helps us preserve our culture while improving our quality of life. We need to move forward as one Decatur.

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Lawrence: Initially, my top priority will be to earn and restore public trust in local government. Restoring public trust in Decaturs city government starts with transparency and accessibility. Ill keep an open door at City Hall, actively listening to citizens concerns and ensuring their voices shape our decisions. By fostering honest communication and accountability, well rebuild confidence.

4. What are the main challenges currently facing the city? How do you plan to address those issues?

Jackson: Leadership has not taken a proactive approach to addressing public concerns, thus eroding public trust. I plan to bring honesty and integrity back to the mayors office so we can unify Decatur residents around the issues that matter high-quality schools, high-quality neighborhoods, and high-quality of life. I will bring a listening posture to the office and respect every voice and concern, even when I am feeling compelled to take hard positions.

Lawrence: Decaturs challenges include strained public safety, aging infrastructure, and the need for economic growth. Ill rebuild trust by making City Hall transparent and responsive, directly engaging citizens. For safety, Ill expand police and firefighter resources with better training and community engagement. Ill work to secure funding to modernize roads and utilities, ensuring sustainability. For jobs, Ill leverage my business experience to attract new innovative 21st century industry while fostering collaboration to move our city forward.

5. Do you have a personal hero? Who is it and why?

Jackson: Yes! My father, Lorenzo Jackson. I watched him as a child and learned the power of bringing people together. He led with humility, respect, and quiet strength. People trusted his leadership because he treated everyone with dignity and fairness. He taught me that real progress happens when we focus on what unites us, not what divides us.

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Lawrence: My Heroes Are My Parents. I was blessed to be raised by two loving parents. Our family was centered around the dinner table and grounded in the church. They instilled in me the values of honesty, integrity, responsibility, compassion, and the importance of hard work. I am so thankful that God gave me such wonderful parents.

6. Tell us something about you that might surprise people.

Jackson: I am a direct descendant of President Andrew Jackson.

Lawrence: I was the first person to ever cook a Quarter Pounder and Egg McMuffin that was ever served in Decatur.

7. Why should people vote for you? What makes you stand out from the other candidates in the race?

Jackson: Experience, education, and commitment define my candidacy. With 29 years on the City Council, I have served longer than any other elected representative in Decaturs history, bringing unparalleled insight and leadership. I hold a business degree, a masters in employment law, and I am currently completing my Ph.D. in criminal justice. These achievements, combined with decades of service, give me the expertise to lead Decatur toward a stronger, more prosperous future. This election isnt about personality; its about preparation and proven qualifications. Mine arent exaggerated; theyre earned through years of dedication, study, and results. I am ready to lead on day one.

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Lawrence: I think those running for office should earn every vote they get. No one is entitled to another persons vote. Im asking people to vote for me because I believe I am the candidate that is most prepared to move Decatur forward. Im tired of the constant crisis and political side show that constantly takes center-stage in our city. This is my home. These are my neighbors, friends, family, people I go to church with, work with, and more. I care about the people of this city. I want Decatur to harness its potential and become the city our people deserve it to be. I promise no one will outwork me. I will be the most transparent, responsive, and proactive Mayor Decatur has ever had and Ill do it because that is what the people of Decatur are asking for and that is the kind of Mayor we deserve.

News 19 will be posting more candidate Q&As for mayoral races across the Tennessee Valley in the coming days. You can visit Your Local Election Headquarters to see Q&As with candidates in mayoral races in other cities.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MOULTON, Ala. (WHNT)  Municipal elections will be held across Alabama on Aug. 26.

Voters in North Alabama will be asked to decide on mayoral races, city council races, and in some communities, school board races.

 News 19 is Your Local Election Headquarters! Click here for more election coverage 

In order to provide voters with detailed information about the candidates running for mayor in 12 North Alabama cities, News 19 sent out a number of candidate questionnaires starting in mid-July.

Advertisement Advertisement

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Some answers will be edited for length, grammar or spelling reasons, but otherwise the content will be published as submitted. Viewer feedback is always welcome.

Not every candidate responded, despite multiple requests from News 19 for a reply.

In Moulton, Incumbent Roger Weatherwax is facing several challengers, including Charles Kenny Rogers, Robert Bobby Burch, Alicia Roper and Ryan Jolly.

Rogers and Roper did not respond to our questions, and Weatherwax and Burch did not provide an answer for every question.

The answers provided by Weatherwax, Burch and Jolly can be seen below:

1. Please provide a short biography

Bobby Burch (Bobby Burch for Mayor)

Burch: Bobby Burch is a lifelong Resident. Small Business Owner. Family Man. Committed to Moultons Future.

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Im proud to have called Moulton home for nearly 60 years. For more than 30 of those, Ive been a self-employed business owner here in Lawrence County. My wife, Tonya, and I have been married for 33 years. Many of you know her as the dedicated school nurse at Moulton Elementary. Together, weve raised two incredible childrenColeman, now a resident physician, and Brylee, a recent PharmD graduate working at a VA hospital.

Jolly: My name is Ryan Jolly, and Im proud to call Moulton my home. Im 40 years old, and Ive lived in this great city since my family moved here when I was in the 7th grade. Im blessed to be married to my wonderful wife, Heather, an elementary educator in the Lawrence County School System. Together, we have three amazing daughters who keep our lives full and joyful.

Ryan Jolly (Courtesy: Ryan Jolly)

I hold a Bachelors degree in Business Management from Athens State University and am a licensed Critical Care Flight Paramedic, certified in multiple states across the country. I currently work with GMR Air Evac Lifeteam, where I continue to serve others in critical moments of need.

My career in public service began in 2006 when I was hired by the City of Moulton as a firefighter. Just a year later, in 2007, I was humbled to be appointed Fire Chief of the Moulton Fire Departmenta position I held with great honor until 2021. It was the greatest privilege of my life to serve our citizens in that role.

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Weatherwax: Growing up, I attended Lawrence County High School and in 1967 went on to Jacksonville State University to receive my degree in business. I was married to my loving wife for 46 years prior to her passing due to cancer. We have 2 sons and 6 grandchildren. For 40 years, I worked in my familys grocery business and even opened a few grocery stores of my own.

Roger Weatherwax (Courtesy: Roger Weatherwax)

2. What led you to run for Mayor?

Burch: Moulton is a town rich in history and tradition  but were at a pivotal point. Our city is in transition, and now more than ever, we need to be thinking not just about the next few years, but the next few decades. That means creating bold, proactive Master Plans for our futureplans that touch every part of our city, from infrastructure and downtown development to quality of life for families and seniors alike.

One event that opened my eyes to our citys potential was Christmas on the Square in 2019. Seeing families come together, smiling, laughing, and enjoying Moulton reminded me of the strong sense of community that still thrives here. We can build on that.

Jolly: After much prayer and thoughtful consideration, I have announced my candidacy for Mayor of Moulton.

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This city has given me so much: opportunity, experience, and a strong sense of community. Now, I believe its my turn to give back in the most meaningful way I know howby serving as Mayor.

Weatherwax: The love I have for the small City of Moulton. I saw some things that needed improving and the only way to make those improvements happen was to run for mayor and develop policies to improve the city.

3. What will be your top priority if you are elected?

Burch: The number one concern I hearand shareis the quality of our water. Its inconsistent and, at times, unacceptable. Our water treatment plant, built in 1957, is in dire need of renovation. Even more concerning is that weve recently lost West Lawrence Authorityour largest wholesale water customerdue to issues that could have been addressed with more urgency.

Solutions have been presented to our current leadership, but too often, they havent been given the serious consideration they deserve. We can and must do better. Clean, reliable water is not a luxuryits a basic right.

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Jolly: If elected, I will work every day to make Moulton a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and everyone feels heard. My priorities include:

Restoring communication between City Hall and the people

Repairing and improving infrastructure

Creating a long-term strategic plan for our citys future

Fostering transparency, accountability, and trust

I believe leadership starts with listening. I want to open the doors of City Hallnot just physically, but relationally. Im committed to honest conversations and will always lead with integrity, respect, and a deep love for this community.

Throughout this campaign, my focus has been simple: service over self, and people over politics. I have no allegiance to special interestsonly to the citizens of Moulton.

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Im not afraid of tough conversations or hard decisions. I will be a Mayor who works for my community, stands with my community, and listens to my community.

Weatherwax: There are several ongoing projects that the current administration and I have started, and my main goal will be to see those projects carried out and to keep moving Moulton into a positive direction.

4. What are the main challenges currently facing the city? How do you plan to address those issues?

Burch: Too often, we wait for things to break before we act. That has to change. Whether its our parks, downtown revitalization, or our aging infrastructure, we need to build a Grand Vision for Moultonone that allows us to modernize while preserving the southern charm that makes our town unique.

Look around at some of our neighboring citiesmany have created walkable, inviting downtowns that attract visitors and give residents a place to gather. Theres no reason Moulton cant do the same.

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Jolly: The main challenges facing our city are aging infrastructure and the need to improve the overall quality of life.

As a leader, I plan to focus on building strong relationships with both community members and business leaders. I want to foster dialogue, encourage entrepreneurship, and support growth, as well as strengthen trust and transparency between the City and its residents.

By promoting open dialogue, we can better understand the shared vision for what we want the City of Moulton to becomeboth for current residents and for future generations.

Weatherwax: One main concern currently affecting the city is infrastructure. We have collaborated with an engineering firm to combat some of the infrastructure concerns and we have applied for grants this year to help solve some of these issues.

5. Do you have a personal hero? Who is it and why?

Burch: None of this would be possible without the example set by my parents. Their journeyfrom the Naval Academy to making a home in Moulton in the 1960shas shaped who I am. Theyve touched countless lives in our community, and I am beyond proud to call them my heroes.

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Jolly: My parents are my heroes. They taught me to lead with kindness, humility, and honesty. They raised me to be the man I am today by instilling in me a deep understanding of respect, and compassion for others. They also taught me the importance of standing up for whats right and never sacrificing my integrity. They showed me the value of hard work and the importance of leading by example.

Weatherwax: No answer provided.

6. Tell us something about you that might surprise people.

Burch: No answer provided.

Jolly: Im a proud dance dadand watching my daughters use their God-given gifts brings me more joy than anything else.

Weatherwax: Having a servant heart is necessary to hold this position but it is a characteristic that was instilled in me at a very young age, seeing my father meet the needs of the community through his business

7. Why should people vote for you? What makes you stand out from the other candidates in the race?

Burch: No answer provided.

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Jolly: On August 26, I humbly ask for your vote and your trust. I want to be a Mayor for the peoplesomeone who listens, who acts, and who truly cares about making Moulton the best it can be for generations to come.

As the father of three, I want to build a future where my childrenand yourscan thrive right here in Moulton. I will prioritize initiatives that make our City a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

In closing, I am humbled by the opportunity to serve and the responsibility it carries. If elected, I promise to lead with honesty, transparency, and a relentless commitment to putting people first.

Thank you, and I look forward to the journey ahead  together.

Lets move forward  together

Weatherwax: I have 9 years of experience under my belt since being elected in 2016. The experience I have gained over the years helps me stand out in this mayor race.

News 19 will be posting more candidate Q&As for mayoral races across the Tennessee Valley in the coming days. You can visit Your Local Election Headquarters to see Q&As with candidates in mayoral races in other cities.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
FILE - This undated photo provided by his family in June 2025 shows Remy Rowhani, the head of the National Spiritual Assembly that governs Baha'i affairs in Qatar. (Family photo via AP, File)

The leader of the small Bahai community in Qatar was sentenced Wednesday to five years in prison for social media posts that allegedly cast doubt on the foundations of the Islamic religion, according to court documents obtained by an international Bahai organization monitoring the case.

A three-judge panel of Qatars Supreme Judiciary Council issued the verdict against Remy Rowhani, 71, who has been detained since April, according to documents provided to The Associated Press by the Bahai International Community office in Geneva, Switzerland.

The judges rejected a defense request for leniency on grounds that Rowhani suffered from a heart condition, according to the documentation.

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Saba Haddad, the Geneva office's representative to the United Nations, depicted the verdict as a serious breach and grave violation of the right to freedom of religion or belief and an attack on Remy Rowhani and the Bahai community in Qatar.

Haddad's office, in a post on X, called on the international community to urge Qatars government to uphold international law and ensure Mr. Rowhanis immediate release.

Queried by The Associated Press about the verdict, Qatar's International Media Office issued this response:

"Qatars Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of worship for all. This must be exercised in accordance with the law and must not threaten or violate public stability and security. Qatars legal system ensures that all parties in any case are granted due process and provided legal representation, with no discrimination based on ethnicity, religion or any other status.

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The verdict came just two weeks after a group of U.N. human rights experts expressed serious concern about Rowhani's arrest and detention, which they depicted as part of a broader and disturbing pattern of disparate treatment of the Bahai minority in Qatar.

The mere existence of Bahais in Qatar and their innocuous presence on X cannot be criminalized under international law, they said.

Rowhani  former head of Qatars Chamber of Commerce  had been arrested once previously, accused of offenses such as routine fundraising related to his leadership of Qatars Bahai National Assembly.

The latest charges, filed in April, involve the Baha'i community's X and Instagram accounts, which contain posts about Qatari holidays and Bahai writings.

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According to the documentation provided by the Geneva office, Qatari prosecutors alleged that these accounts promoted the ideas and beliefs of a religious sect that raises doubt about the foundations and teachings of the Islamic religion.

Rowhanis daughter, Noora Rowhani, who lives in Australia, said via email that the five-year verdict is "so unfortunate and so shocking."

My eye condition is deteriorating and in five years, even if I meet, him I will most probably not be able to see him anymore, she added.

The Bahai faith  a small but global religion with an interfaith credo  fits comfortably into the religious spectrum of most countries but in several Middle East nations, Bahai followers face repression that is drawing criticism from rights groups.

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The abuse is most evident in Iran, which bans the faith and has been widely accused of persecuting Baha'i followers, human rights advocates say. They also report systemic discrimination in Yemen, Qatar and Egypt.

Advocates say Iran's government has pressed for repression of the Bahai followers in countries where it holds influence, such as Yemen, where Iran-backed Houthi rebels control the northern half of the country, and Qatar, which shares with Iran the worlds largest natural gas field.

The Bahai faith was founded in the 1860s by Bahaullah, a Persian nobleman considered a prophet by his followers. Muslims consider the Prophet Muhammad the highest and last prophet.

From the Baha'i faiths earliest days, Shiite Muslim clerics have denounced its followers as apostates. That repression continued after Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution, when many Bahai followers were executed or went missing.

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There are less than 8 million Baha'i believers worldwide, with the largest number in India.

___

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.
On the occasion of International Youth Day, the Tripura State AIDS Control Society organised the state-level Bell of Awareness programme on Tuesday at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, while attending the programme, said that parents should pay special attention to their children in the fight against drugs. He also emphasised that Red Ribbon Clubs should be increased in schools and colleges to fight HIV/AIDS, because if everyone works together, Tripura can be made an HIV-free state. At the programme, Saha, who is also the Health Minister, said, "I felt very happy at this programme that, with the ringing of a bell, about 6,000 students joined the preventive awareness programme against AIDS today. We are really worried about the way HIV is spreading in the North Eastern region, including Tripura. Currently, Tripura ranks fourth among the eight states of the North Eastern region, and this position has become a matter of great concern." He said that those who take drugs initially get used to them, and later it gradually turns into an addiction. Therefore, one should be careful about these drugs from the beginning. "Parents should be very careful in this regard because there is a tendency towards bad habits in student life. Along with good students, there are also some bad influences. Many times, even good students tend to engage in wrong activities. Those who first get involved with drugs themselves understand that it is not right to take drugs or inject them. However, after reaching the stage of addiction, that understanding disappears," he said. The Chief Minister said that parents should pay special attention to their children to combat drugs. "It is necessary to keep a watch on where their children go and what they are doing. Along with this, students should also increase their self-confidence or morale to resist drugs. They should be determined not to associate with bad influences and should maintain a distance from those who lead a disorderly life. If necessary, teachers should be informed about this. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have repeatedly spoken about building a drug-free India. In that direction, we have also aimed to build a drug-free Tripura and a drug-free India. For that purpose, we have adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs," said CM Saha. The Chief Minister further said that awareness should be created about the problems or difficulties that can arise from taking drugs. Giving information, Saha said that the AIDS Control Society has undertaken the task of creating awareness among about 2,31,000 students from Class 8 to 12 in about 1,187 government and government-aided schools. Awareness talks are very important to stay away from AIDS. "So far, about 3,433 HIV/AIDS-infected people in Tripura have been provided with a monthly allowance of Rs. 2,000," he added. Health Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, Education Department Special Secretary Raval Hemendra Kumar, Education Director N. C. Sharma, NHM Mission Director Saju Wahid A., Health Director Dr. Tapan Majumdar, Family Welfare and Disease Prevention Department In-charge Dr. Nirmal Sarkar, Tripura AIDS Control Society Project Director Dr. Binita Chakma, and other eminent doctors and officials were present as distinguished guests on the occasion. (ANI)
When artist Amy Sherald canceled her LGBTQ-inclusive Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery show American Sublime last month, it was just the latest in a series of censorship episodes involving LGBTQ art at major American museums this year.

In February, Washington, D.C.s Art Museum of the Americas canceled Natures Wild With Andil Gosine just weeks before the exhibitions scheduled opening in March, without saying why. The group show was to have included works inspired by Gosines 2021 book, Natures Wild: Love, Sex and Law in the Caribbean, which reflects on art, activism and homosexuality in the region.

The same month, Arizonas Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art made eleventh-hour edits to a traveling exhibition of women, queer and trans artists, which had previously been called transfeminisms, altering the title of its condensed show to There are other skies.

Marinna Shareef with Andil Gosine's "God of Whimsy" (https://www.paulpetro.com/exhibitions/674-nature-s-wild-with-andil-gosine)

In April, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art postponed a group exhibition of works by LGBTQ African artists titled Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art, which had been scheduled for a late May opening to coincide with WorldPride. The D.C. museum cited budgetary reasons for postponing the show to 2026, but the timing was hard to miss on the heels of Trump administration directives to the Smithsonian to remove improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology from its museums  as well as the forced and pre-emptive relocation of other WorldPride cultural events after Trump administration firings at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

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Theres something about the combination of art and sexuality that still remains the third rail in the American museum world, art historian Jonathan D. Katz told NBC News. Katz was the lead curator for The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity, 1869-1939, the vast and successful historical survey of LGBTQ art that ran through early July at Chicagos Wrightwood 659 Gallery.

Katz traces the roots of modern queer art censorship to the controversial Robert Mapplethorpe exhibition The Perfect Moment, which  with its provocative imagery, much of it homoerotic  became a cultural lightning rod at the height of the Reagan/Bush-era culture wars in 1989-90.

Youd think that decades later, this would no longer be a live wire, but it still seems to be, Katz said.

Activists in downtown Cincinnati in 1990 as jury selection began in obscenity charges against the Contemporary Arts Center for exhibiting photographs by the late artist Robert Mapplethorpe. (Al Behrmann / AP file)

Central to the cancellation of Sheralds show was her painting Trans Forming Liberty, which features a Black trans woman posing as the Statue of Liberty. After she learned that the National Portrait Gallery had internal concerns about the painting and planned to replace or supplement it with a video to provide both sides of its trans subject matter, Sherald balked and canceled her entire show, which would have been the museums first solo exhibition by a Black contemporary artist.

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While no single person is to blame, its clear that institutional fear shaped by a broader climate of political hostility toward trans lives played a role, Sherald, who rose to fame when she painted former first lady Michelle Obamas official portrait, said in a statement after the cancellation. At a time when transgender people are being legislated against, silenced, and endangered across our nation, silence is not an option.

After the cancellation, a spokesperson for the Smithsonian Institution, which oversees the gallery, disputed Sheralds claims and said that the institution wanted more time to better contextualize the painting but that Sherald canceled before that could be done.

Katz said Sheralds withdrawal of the exhibit is what this moment requires.

I bow to her, he said. Shes willing to do it, shes got the strength to do it, and I think its extraordinary.

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The National Portrait Gallery is one of eight Smithsonian museums targeted as part of the first phase of an expansive review announced by the Trump administration on Tuesday. The review will analyze all aspects of current and future museum exhibitions to ensure alignment with the presidents March executive order calling for Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.

Gustave Caillebotte's "Boat Party" is now on view at the Art Institute of Chicago. (Sophie Crepy / Musee dOrsay)

In June, across town from The First Homosexuals, the Art Institute of Chicago opened a traveling exhibition of 19th century French artist Gustave Caillebottes male-focused and arguably homoerotic work, changing the shows name from Gustave Caillebotte: Painting Men to Gustave Caillebotte: Painting His World. Wall texts accompanying the artworks at the Art Institute take a more general approach than they had at the exhibitions previous incarnations at the Musee dOrsay in Paris and the Getty Center in Los Angeles, where frank discussions of gender and sexuality were included.

That one was particularly galling, because not only did the show coincide with my show, but I wrote for the catalog of that exhibition precisely how one talks about same-sex desire in Caillebottes work, Katz said.

Katzs associate curator for The First Homosexuals, Johnny Willis, added, Were not asking them to say that Gustave Caillebotte was gay ... Were asking them to leave open the possibility, and to foreground the blurriness of these questions in the late 19th century.

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In a statement to NBC News, the Art Institute of Chicago said its Painting His World title is more illustrative of what people will see when they come to the exhibition, which reflects Caillebottes full lived experience and daily life, including his personal relationships with the men in his life, like his brother, colleagues, and friends. The institute added that its common practice for the same exhibition to have differing titles and wall labels when its at different museums.

The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art  which was not included in the Trump administrations Phase I review  said in a statement on Tuesday that the postponement of its LGBTQ exhibition was due to private funding challenges and that pushing it back to early 2026 provide the museum additional time to increase fundraising for the exhibit.

The Art Museum of the Americas and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art did not immediately respond to NBC News requests for comment regarding their canceled and altered exhibits.

Alice Austen's 1891 photograph "The Darned Club" was on view earlier this year at "The First Homosexuals" exhibition at Wrightwood 659 in Chicago.

Willis said that a particular strain of 1 Percent conservatism is running some American museums today and that it is contributing to a rise in censorship.

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A lot of these museums are privately funded, Willis said. So I think its about trying to pacify a class of oligarchs that by and large run these museums, for whom questions of explicit uncensored sexuality are frankly anathema to their values.

Fortunately for Katz and Willis  and Chicago audiences  the innovative exhibition space Wrightwood 659, just seven years old and committed to presenting socially engaged art, stepped up to host The First Homosexuals when virtually every other American museum turned it down.

One museum director said to me, Its precisely the exhibition Id like to show, and therefore the one that I cant, Katz said.

After the shows success, Katz said, he was sure that several museums that had turned it down would ask to host it next. Never happened, he said. Rave reviews, the last two months were sold out, waiting lists of 100-plus people  I mean, everything a museum could want, and yet no.

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Instead, the exhibition will travel next to Switzerlands Kunstmuseum Basel, where it will open in the spring.

Canadian artist Kent Monkman works on one of his large-scale history paintings, called "The Scream," in 2016. (Randy Risling / Toronto Star via Getty Images file)

For now, queer art is still finding a home at some major American museums. Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors runs through this weekend at the Denver Art Museum; New Yorks Metropolitan Museum of Art is showcasing Casa Susanna through Jan. 25; and in Los Angeles, the Getty Center has a double feature of queer shows, Queer Lens: A History of Photography and $3 Bill: Evidence of Queer Lives, both on view through Sept. 28.

These exhibitions do what we always hope an exhibition will do  bring visibility to lesser-known histories through the display of art to the public, said Timothy Potts, director of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

The Denver Art Museums Native Arts curator, John P. Lukavic, said editing the exhibition was never a consideration for the museum, having worked with Monkman, a queer, Two-Spirit artist, for more than a dozen years. Presenting his work and the queer themes he explores are completely normal for us and our community, Lukavic said.

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Willis said museum officials underestimate the publics appetite for queer-themed shows.

I dont think a lot of these museum officials realize how much of a gold mine this is, Willis said. There is enormous hunger for these histories, these stories, these narratives right now  not to mention that it can bolster a reputation. You can mark yourself as an institution that upholds bravery.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks during his Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill on Jan. 14, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

This story was originally published by The 19th.

In my ideal society, we would vote as households, a pastor tells CNN. And I would ordinarily be the one that would cast the vote, but I would cast the vote having discussed it with my household.

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Another agrees, saying hed back an end to a womans right to vote: I would support that, and Id support it on the basis that the atomization that comes with our current system is not good for humans.

The discussion of 19th Amendment rights was part of a news segment focused on Doug Wilson  a self-proclaimed Christian nationalist pastor based in Idaho  that was reposted to X by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The secretary is among Wilsons supporters, and his involvement with Wilsons denomination highlights how a fringe conservative evangelical Christian belief system that questions womens right to vote is gaining more traction in the Republican Party.

Kristin Du Mez, a professor of history at Calvin University and author of Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation, said Wilsons broader vision of Christian nationalism has gotten more attention over the past several years, alongside President Donald Trumps rise to power.

He was a fairly fringe figure, but this moment was really his moment, she said. And then as part of that, also, I think he signaled and gave permission to others that they didnt need to hide some of their more controversial views, such as, should women have the vote? And thats something that you didnt hear proudly promoted from very many spaces, even just a handful of years ago.

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In the CNN interview, Wilson said hed like to see the United States become a Christian and patriarchal country. He advocates for a society where sodomy is criminalized and women submit to their husbands and shouldnt serve in combat roles in the military  a belief Hegseth has also publicly shared in the past though walked back during his confirmation hearings.

Hegseth appeared to support the nearly seven-minute interview with the caption, All of Christ for All of Life. Wilson has built an evangelical empire over the past 50 years that is centered in Moscow, Idaho, and now spans more than 150 congregations across four continents  including a new church in Washington, D.C. In July, Hegseth and his family attended the inaugural service at Christ Church, according to CNN.

The Secretary is a proud member of a church affiliated with the Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC), which was founded by Pastor Doug Wilson, Sean Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesperson, said in a statement to The 19th. The Secretary very much appreciates many of Mr. Wilsons writings and teachings.

Du Mez said Wilson built his brand as a vocal critic of mainstream evangelicalism.

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They were too wishy washy, Du Mez said, referring to Wilsons view of much of White evangelicalism in the 1990s and early 2000s. They were too soft. And so he was kind of bringing a harsher biblical truth, and that included things like a much more rigid application of biblical patriarchy. 

In 2024, only 1 in 10 Americans qualified as Christian nationalism adherents, according to the Public Religion Research Institute.

Ryan Dawkins, an assistant professor of political science at Carleton College, said Christian nationalism hasnt necessarily gotten more popular in the past 20 years. But there have been partisan trends.

While they used to be more evenly divided between the two parties, over the last two decades, Christian nationalists have sorted into the Republican Party at incredibly high rates, Dawkins said. Christian nationalism is almost non-existent within the Democratic Party today, at least among White Democrats.

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While its still far from a mainstream opinion, several figures within the Republican Party have flirted with the idea of repealing the 19th Amendment.

Paul Ingrassia, who Trump nominated to lead the Office of Special Counsel, suggested approval for the idea in a 2023 podcast. Podcast host Alan Jacoby told Ingrassia that his own wife is the biggest misogynist this side of the Mississippi, by the way. My wife literally thinks women should not vote.

Ingrassia responded, Shes very based, a term expressing support for a bold opinion.

During the 2020 Republican National Convention, Republicans featured anti-abortion activist Abby Johnson, who has advocated for a new kind of voting system where households, not individuals, would cast votes. Head-of-household voting has historically disenfranchised women and people of color by concentrating power on the male leaders of the home.

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In the leadup to the 2016 presidential election, FiveThirtyEight, a political forecasting site, shared data that suggested if women didnt vote, Trump would win. The hashtag #repealthe19th  a reference to the 19th Amendment, which grants women the right to vote  quickly went viral.

And a former Trump-backed Michigan candidate for the U.S. House who has also held positions in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development was found to have made statements criticizing womens suffrage while in college at Stanford University in the early 2000s. John Gibbs, now an assistant secretary at the agency, said that the country had been damaged by the 19th Amendment because womens suffrage had led to an increase in the size and scope of the government. He added that women making up half of the population wasnt enough reason for womens suffrage. Gibbs 2022 congressional campaign denied he opposed womens right to vote.

Kelly Marino, associate teaching professor at Sacred Heart University and author of Votes for College Women: Alumni, Students and the Woman Suffrage Campaign said that while conservative religious sects adamantly opposed to womens suffrage have always existed, now there is renewed momentum.

If you look at the way things played out in the past, we have this very liberal period followed by a conservative backlash, Marino said. And thats whats going on now. You have this period of liberalism where people were having a more expansive view of gender ideology, ideas about sexuality and women in politics. We had some pretty prominent female politicians that were making it pretty far in the last couple of years. And now theres a backlash.

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Marino said the conservative backlash is reminiscent of the 1960s and 70s. There were significant progressive movements for civil rights, womens rights, LGBTQ+ rights and environmental protections. But at the same time, the early 1970s saw the emergence of the mens liberation movement, which focused primarily on issues like divorce law and child custody.

Theres some men who are promoting a sort of return to tradition, a patriarchal vision for society, Marino said. Its always sort of there, but its gaining traction within mainstream consciousness again. And now, you have all this stuff about soft girls and tradwives  this gender ideal of women being the domestic homemaker within a traditional family structure. Theres been a big push for this radical Christianity and some of its values  its become really popular even among younger people.

Joseph Slaughter, an assistant professor of history at Wesleyan University, said Wilson is having his moment in the spotlight  but its important to remember that he does not speak for the majority.

He delights in upsetting people or saying transgressive, un-PC things, Slaughter said. Ten years ago, when he posted a video talking about mans biblical duties  people just sort of yawned and dismissed him. Now, hes saying things and theyre gaining more currency because of some of this other new right-wing masculinity and the online manosphere.

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Slaughter said its particularly concerning that Wilsons teachings have found their support in a man as powerful as Hegseth.

What does it mean for somebody whos running an organization which has had its struggles over the years integrating women and trying to understand existential questions about womens role in combat? Slaughter said. Are Hegseths views reinforced by his religion now? Does this church reinforce his cultural chauvinism? For somebody in his position, its certainly fair game to ask.
Pete Hegseth at Secretary of Defense confirmation hearing in January. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

This story was originally reported The 19th.

In my ideal society, we would vote as households, a pastor tells CNN. And I would ordinarily be the one that would cast the vote, but I would cast the vote having discussed it with my household.

Another agrees, saying hed back an end to a womans right to vote: I would support that, and Id support it on the basis that the atomization that comes with our current system is not good for humans.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The discussion of 19th Amendment rights was part of a news segment focused on Doug Wilson  a self-proclaimed Christian nationalist pastor based in Idaho  that was reposted to X by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The secretary is among Wilsons supporters, and his involvement with Wilsons denomination highlights how a fringe conservative evangelical Christian belief system that questions womens right to vote is gaining more traction in the Republican Party.

Kristin Du Mez, a professor of history at Calvin University and author of Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation, said Wilsons broader vision of Christian nationalism has gotten more attention over the past several years, alongside President Donald Trumps rise to power.

He was a fairly fringe figure, but this moment was really his moment, she said. And then as part of that, also, I think he signaled and gave permission to others that they didnt need to hide some of their more controversial views, such as, should women have the vote? And thats something that you didnt hear proudly promoted from very many spaces, even just a handful of years ago.

In the CNN interview, Wilson said hed like to see the United States become a Christian and patriarchal country. He advocates for a society where sodomy is criminalized and women submit to their husbands and shouldnt serve in combat roles in the military  a belief Hegseth has also publicly shared in the past though walked back during his confirmation hearings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hegseth appeared to support the nearly seven-minute interview with the caption, All of Christ for All of Life. Wilson has built an evangelical empire over the past 50 years that is centered in Moscow, Idaho, and now spans more than 150 congregations across four continents  including a new church in Washington, D.C. In July, Hegseth and his family attended the inaugural service at Christ Church, according to CNN.

The Secretary is a proud member of a church affiliated with the Congregation of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC), which was founded by Pastor Doug Wilson, Sean Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesperson, said in a statement to The 19th. The Secretary very much appreciates many of Mr. Wilsons writings and teachings.

Du Mez said Wilson built his brand as a vocal critic of mainstream evangelicalism.

They were too wishy washy, Du Mez said, referring to Wilsons view of much of White evangelicalism in the 1990s and early 2000s. They were too soft. And so he was kind of bringing a harsher biblical truth, and that included things like a much more rigid application of biblical patriarchy. 

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2024, only 1 in 10 Americans qualified as Christian nationalism adherents, according to the Public Religion Research Institute.

Ryan Dawkins, an assistant professor of political science at Carleton College, said Christian nationalism hasnt necessarily gotten more popular in the past 20 years. But there have been partisan trends.

While they used to be more evenly divided between the two parties, over the last two decades, Christian nationalists have sorted into the Republican Party at incredibly high rates, Dawkins said. Christian nationalism is almost non-existent within the Democratic Party today, at least among White Democrats.

While its still far from a mainstream opinion, several figures within the Republican Party have flirted with the idea of repealing the 19th Amendment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Paul Ingrassia, who Trump nominated to lead the Office of Special Counsel, suggested approval for the idea in a 2023 podcast. Podcast host Alan Jacoby told Ingrassia that his own wife is the biggest misogynist this side of the Mississippi, by the way. My wife literally thinks women should not vote.

Ingrassia responded, Shes very based, a term expressing support for a bold opinion.

During the 2020 Republican National Convention, Republicans featured anti-abortion activist Abby Johnson, who has advocated for a new kind of voting system where households, not individuals, would cast votes. Head-of-household voting has historically disenfranchised women and people of color by concentrating power on the male leaders of the home.

In the leadup to the 2016 presidential election, FiveThirtyEight, a political forecasting site, shared data that suggested if women didnt vote, Trump would win. The hashtag #repealthe19th  a reference to the 19th Amendment, which grants women the right to vote  quickly went viral.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And a former Trump-backed Michigan candidate for the U.S. House who has also held positions in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development was found to have made statements criticizing womens suffrage while in college at Stanford University in the early 2000s. John Gibbs, now an assistant secretary at the agency, said that the country had been damaged by the 19th Amendment because womens suffrage had led to an increase in the size and scope of the government. He added that women making up half of the population wasnt enough reason for womens suffrage. Gibbs 2022 congressional campaign denied he opposed womens right to vote.

Kelly Marino, associate teaching professor at Sacred Heart University and author of Votes for College Women: Alumni, Students and the Woman Suffrage Campaign said that while conservative religious sects adamantly opposed to womens suffrage have always existed, now there is renewed momentum.

If you look at the way things played out in the past, we have this very liberal period followed by a conservative backlash, Marino said. And thats whats going on now. You have this period of liberalism where people were having a more expansive view of gender ideology, ideas about sexuality and women in politics. We had some pretty prominent female politicians that were making it pretty far in the last couple of years. And now theres a backlash.

Marino said the conservative backlash is reminiscent of the 1960s and 70s. There were significant progressive movements for civil rights, womens rights, LGBTQ+ rights and environmental protections. But at the same time, the early 1970s saw the emergence of the mens liberation movement, which focused primarily on issues like divorce law and child custody.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres some men who are promoting a sort of return to tradition, a patriarchal vision for society, Marino said. Its always sort of there, but its gaining traction within mainstream consciousness again. And now, you have all this stuff about soft girls and tradwives  this gender ideal of women being the domestic homemaker within a traditional family structure. Theres been a big push for this radical Christianity and some of its values  its become really popular even among younger people.

Joseph Slaughter, an assistant professor of history at Wesleyan University, said Wilson is having his moment in the spotlight  but its important to remember that he does not speak for the majority.

He delights in upsetting people or saying transgressive, un-PC things, Slaughter said. Ten years ago, when he posted a video talking about mans biblical duties  people just sort of yawned and dismissed him. Now, hes saying things and theyre gaining more currency because of some of this other new right-wing masculinity and the online manosphere.

Slaughter said its particularly concerning that Wilsons teachings have found their support in a man as powerful as Hegseth.

What does it mean for somebody whos running an organization which has had its struggles over the years integrating women and trying to understand existential questions about womens role in combat? Slaughter said. Are Hegseths views reinforced by his religion now? Does this church reinforce his cultural chauvinism? For somebody in his position, its certainly fair game to ask.
Aug. 12President Donald Trump's announcement Monday that he will take control of Washington, D.C.'s police department and deploy the National Guard in the nation's capital  and his suggestion that he could take similar actions in other Democratically controlled jurisdictions  has stirred questions about what the move means for cities across the country.

The move also sparked backlash from several members of Washington's Congressional delegation, while Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown said it's "too hypothetical to predict what would happen if President Trump deployed National Guard troops to Spokane, but he has continued to spread misinformation about crime in cities across the country."

Surrounded by members of his cabinet at the White House, Trump said during a news conference Monday that he wanted to "rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor, and worse."

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"This is liberation day in D.C., and we're going to take our capital back; we're taking it back," Trump said.

Trump announced Monday that he would put the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department "under direct federal control" and deploy members of the National Guard to "help re-establish law and order and public safety."

"And they're going to be allowed to do their job properly," Trump said.

In the announcement, Trump cited Section 740 of the 1973 District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows the president to federalize the city police for 48 hours before notifying Congress and for a total of 30 days before he needs congressional approval.

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According to NBC News, National Guard troops are expected on the ground in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday.

Trump suggested Monday that he could look to make similar moves elsewhere.

"Other cities are hopefully watching this," Trump said. "Maybe they'll self-clean up, and maybe they'll self-do this and get rid of the cashless bail thing and all of the things that caused the problem."

Local officials in D.C. have objected to the move, including D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb, who said Monday that "there is no crime emergency in the District of Columbia."

According to the city's police department, violent crime fell in the city by 26% from 2024 to 2025.

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The move has drawn praise from some, including Republican Idaho Sen. Jim Risch, who noted that many will travel to the nation's capital next year in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

"President Trump is restoring law and order in our nation's capital. Idaho serves as a model of low crime and safe streets. As we gear up for America 250, many Idahoans will visit D.C. and should feel safe when celebrating our nation," Risch said in a statement Monday. "Change is needed and President Trump will deliver."

Washington's senators, though, quickly criticized the move. Sen. Patty Murray said Monday that the president's "authoritarian takeover of Washington, D.C., is not a serious effort to make our nation's capital safer."

Murray noted that violent crime in Washington, D.C., is at a 30-year low, and suggested that "Trump is trying desperately to change the subject from his connection to the Epstein files, weak jobs numbers, and the skyrocketing costs that are hitting every family because of his tariffs."

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Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell called the move "another absurd attempt by the President to use emergency powers where they don't apply." Cantwell added that the president should allow local officials to police their jurisdictions while federal officials focus on other matters, including sex trafficking and money laundering.

"It may take a while for the courts to act on this overreach by President Trump, who is simply trying to project power," Cantwell said. "But the American people know there are better ways to solve their problem than this authoritarian move."

As Trump suggests he could look to take additional action in other Democratically led cities, it remains unclear what Monday's announcement could mean for Spokane and Washington state.

Mike Faulk, a spokesperson for Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, said the attorney general's office is "following developments."

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"As we've been doing, we'll defend Washingtonians from any presidential abuse of power that targets us," Faulk said.

Brown said Monday crime is down nationally and "that is the case locally, too."

"Public safety remains my top priority and that is why I proposed, and Spokane voters overwhelmingly passed, last year's Community Safety Sales Tax," Brown said. "The most helpful move the federal government could take to ensure safety right now is to restore funding for domestic violence, drug intervention, and housing programs that are proven to keep communities safe and stable,"

While previous presidents have tried to use the influence of the office to reduce crime, Todd Schaefer, a political science professor at Central Washington University, said Monday that crime has typically been handled on a state and local level, rather than by the federal government.

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"It always kills me when presidents promise some stuff about crime and education, because they don't have a lot of authority or money in that," Schaefer said.

Other presidents, Schaefer said, have sought to take a tough-on-crime approach, including Presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan. However, those presidents often tried to persuade local authorities to act through funding, rather than the confrontational approach Trump has taken.

"I don't know that he can take over, just like, I don't think he can take over Yakima High School or Davis High School," Schaefer said. "I don't think there's really a direct mechanism to do that."

The federal government, Schaefer said, can coerce state and local governments into action in certain scenarios, though this "is usually through money."

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Schaefer added that the most typical route for the federal government to encourage a local government into action is through "financial incentives."

Orion Donovan Smith's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A 2-year-old dog, described as a quirky ball of love, from Eugene, Oregon has been crowned the winner of the 2025 Worlds Ugliest Dog Contest.

The contest, held August 8 in Santa Rosa, California, celebrates imperfections that make all dogs special and unique, with this years top prize going to Petunia, a hairless Frenchie and English Bulldog mix.

With her signature coconut oil skin treatments and daily sunscreen, Petunia enjoys trail walks in the Oregon woods and snuggles, the event organizers said.

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Blazers sold to owner of Carolina Hurricanes: Reports

Before her life in Eugene, Petunia was rescued from a backyard breeder in Las Vegas by Luvable Dog Rescue, a non-profit that rehomes dogs that have been rescued from kill shelters.

Petunia previously underwent surgeries to correct an elongated palate, which is common in poorly bred bully breeds, event organizers said, noting Petunia is now breathing easy and thriving.

As the winner, Petunia received $5,000 and will also become the new face of MUG Root Beer, the events sponsor, with her own limited edition MUG merchandise. Petunia won among 10 contestants, including a Chinese crested named Little Prince Wonder and a 13-year-old chihuahua named Nezumi, as reported by People Magazine.

Two-year-old Frenchie English Bulldog mix, Petunia, with her owner Shannon Nyman, after winning the 2025 Worlds Ugliest Dog contest Aug. 8, 2025 in Santa Rosa, California (Courtesy Will Bucquoy.)

This marks the second year in a row that a dog from Oregon has been crowned the Worlds Ugliest Dog, after an eight-year-old Pekingese from North Bend named Wild Thang won the 2024 contest.

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For nearly 50 years, the Worlds Ugliest Dog competition, held during the Sonoma-Marin Fair, has been a testament that pedigree does not define a pet, according to the event website, noting, The annual Worlds Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of ugly dogs, but having fun with some wonderful characters and showing the world that these dogs are really beautiful!

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Stefano Famiglietti, the Democratic candidate for Rhode Island Senate District 4, signs in before voting at Whelan Elementary School on Mineral Spring Avenue in North Providence for the special election Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025. (Photo by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current)

Roughly 8% of Rhode Island Senate District 4 voters cast ballots in the special Aug. 5 election, according to final results certified by the state Board of Elections Wednesday.

The boards unanimous vote, made swiftly and without discussion, confirms the preliminary outcome of the election in which Democrat Stefano Famiglietti secured 83% of votes, compared with 16% for Republican Alexander Asermely.

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The special election was triggered by the death of the late Senate President Dominick Ruggerio. Ruggerio held the seat for 40 years prior to his death in April.

Famiglietti, 33, a personal injury lawyer, pledged to follow in his predecessors footsteps, emphasizing deep community ties which include serving on the North Providence Town Council since 2018. His ascension to the State Senate triggers a special election for his seat on the town council, dates for which have not been set.

Famigliettis landslide victory received national party recognition, with Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin touting the results as Democrats second-biggest overperformance of 2025 compared with district results in the 2024 presidential election.

There are 22,214 registered voters in the district, which spans North Providence and a section of northern Providence. A majority of them, roughly 10,000, are registered Democrats, while another 9,700 are unaffiliated, with the remainder registered as Republicans, according to data from the Rhode Island Department of State.

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Nearly 60% of the 2,054 voters who participated in the August special election cast ballots on Election Day at one of the four designated polling places, Miguel Nunez, state election director, said during the Wednesday meeting. Another 25% voted early during designated hours at city or town halls, while the remainder submitted ballots by mail,

Famiglietti will be sworn into office at 4 p.m. Thursday in an inauguration ceremony at the Rhode Island State House. Secretary of State Gregg Amore will administer the oath of office.

Famiglietti will serve the rest of Ruggerios two-year term, though 2026. State lawmakers are paid $20,391.97 a year.

Election board members Michael Connors, Randall Jackvony and Robert Rapoza were absent from the meeting.

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DENVER (AP)  A group of rabbits in Colorado with grotesque, hornlike growths may seem straight out of a low-budget horror film, but scientists say there's no reason to be spooked  the furry creatures merely have a relatively common virus.

The cottontails recently spotted in Fort Collins are infected with the mostly harmless Shope papillomavirus, which causes wart-like growths that protrude from their faces like metastasizing horns.

Viral photos have inspired a fluffle of unflattering nicknames, including Frankenstein bunnies, demon rabbits and zombie rabbits. But their affliction is nothing new, with the virus inspiring ancient folklore and fueling scientific research nearly 100 years ago.

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The virus likely influenced the centuries-old jackalope myth in North America, which told of a rabbit with antlers or horns, among other animal variations. The disease in rabbits also contributed to scientists' knowledge about the connection between viruses and cancer, such as the human papillomavirus that causes cervical cancer.

The virus in rabbits was named after Dr. Richard E Shope, a professor at The Rockefeller University who discovered the disease in cottontails in the 1930s.

News about the rabbit sightings in Fort Collins, 65 miles (105 kilometers) north of Denver, started getting attention after residents started spotting them around town and posting pictures.

Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, told The Associated Press on Wednesday that the agency has been getting calls about the rabbits seen in Fort Collins.

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But she said that its not uncommon to see infected rabbits, especially in the summer, when the fleas and ticks that spread the virus are most active. The virus can spread from rabbit to rabbit but not to other species, including humans and pets, she said.

The growths resemble warts but can look like horns if they grow longer, Van Hoose said. The growths dont harm rabbits unless they grow on their eyes or mouths and interfere with eating. Rabbits immune systems are able to fight the virus and, once they do, the growths will disappear, she said.

___

Finley reported from Norfolk, Virginia.
RADFORD, Va. (WFXR)  Radford University President, Bret Danilowicz, has been appointed by the Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Senator Frank M. Ruff, Jr. Center for Rural Virginia.

The Senator Frank M. Ruff, Jr. Center for Rural Virginia is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to strengthening the economic and social vitality of rural areas across the Commonwealth.

The General Assembly established the Center for Rural Virginia in 2004, which aims to advance priorities that include economic development, workforce and infrastructure investment, access to education and healthcare, and entrepreneurial opportunities. It operates in partnership with the Council for Rural Virginia under the umbrella of the Virginia Rural Center.

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Danilowiczs appointment is for a two-year term, and he will be eligible for reappointment in 2027, 2029, and 2031.

I hold a deep passion for serving rural Virginia and leading several key initiatives at Radford University that demonstrate our commitment and support the mission of the center, said Danilowicz. In the coming years, the New River Valley will be a greater focal point of university partnerships with local governments to help drive sustainable tourism and recreational opportunities to the university, the city of Radford, and Montgomery and Pulaski counties.

VDACS offers virtual training for Virginia Farm Recovery Grant applicants

Officials say Danilowicz brings to the board a combination of leadership experience in higher education and a personal and professional commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural communities.

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His background in developing innovative programs and partnerships, particularly those designed to serve historically underserved regions, closely aligns with the centers mission to bring together policymakers and stakeholders to enhance opportunities in rural communities. His perspective on workforce development, access to education, and community engagement in rural Virginia will contribute to the centers strategic conversations and ongoing initiatives.

We are excited to welcome President Danilowicz to the Senator Frank M. Ruff Jr. Center for Rural Virginia Board of Trustees, said Kristie Helmick Proctor, executive director of the center. His leadership in higher education and commitment to the success of rural communities make him a valuable addition to our Board. We look forward to the insight and innovation he will bring as we continue to work together to advance rural Virginia.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
President Donald Trump on Monday moved to federalize policing in the nation's capital, following years of unchecked violent crime in Washington, D.C.

The polarizing move has caused an uproar from opponents, and celebrations from supporters who want to see an end to violence in the city. The move comes after Washington has garnered national attention with a string of high-profile incidents in recent months and years that precipitated Trump's move.

However, not everyone agrees with Trump's new plan.

President Donald Trump, alongside Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, left, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaks during a news conference to discuss crime in Washington, D.C., in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 11, 2025.

Fox News contributor and former D.C. homicide detective Ted Williams is among those who oppose the federal intervention. "While the president may mean well, this is going nowhere fast," he told Fox News Digital. "D.C. is not a war zone. The lawsuits for constitutional violations are coming. This is overkill."

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He also said criminals will just wait out the federalization, and return when National Guard troops are pulled from the streets.

"Jo Jo and his boys are going on vacation and will return after this crazy experiment ends."

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President Donald Trump moved to federalize policing in Washington, D.C.

National Fraternal Order of Police President Joe Gamaldi likes Trump's plan.

"Their average homicide rate has doubled in the last 10 years. They used to average less than 100 homicides. Now they average over 200," Gamaldi said, a claim which is backed up by the city's own data.

"And it's because you have a radical element on that city council that has defunded their police. They have embraced revolving door criminal justice policies. And frankly, they treated the hardworking men and women of law enforcement in that town like crap. So, of course, they need help. You have to do something, otherwise it's going to get out of control."

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Below is a list of some of the most notorious crimes the city has seen.

In the early morning hours of Aug. 3, an ex-Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer was beaten during an attempted carjacking in the city's Logan Circle neighborhood.

Edward Coristine, known as "Big Balls," was confronted by a group of teens while out with his significant other. Police said he pushed the woman into his vehicle to protect her and bore the brunt of the wrath of the criminals.

Trump Is Threatening To 'Federalize' Dc With National Guard And More. Here's How That Could Play Out

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Nearby patrol officers intervened, and the attackers escaped on foot, but not before Coristine was left bloodied.

A 15-year-old male and a 15-year-old female have been arrested in connection with the crime. They face charges of unarmed carjacking.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, 21, was shot June 30 on the 1200 block of 7th Street, Northwest. He died a day later. He was a student at the University of Massachusetts - Amherst and was interning for Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan.

Several people exited a vehicle and began firing shots. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said Tarpinian-Jachym was not the target of the shooting.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym seen celebrating with his mother.

A 16-year-old male and an adult female were shot, but both survived. The FBI is assisting MPD in the case's investigation. No suspects have been captured.

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On May 21, two Israeli Embassy staffers were shot and killed while leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum.

The victims were Yaron Lischinsky, an Israeli, and Sarah Milgrim, an American.

Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago was captured immediately. He has been charged not only with the murders, but with federal hate crimes. He allegedly shouted "Free, free Palestine!" while in custody.

Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, who were shot and killed as they left an event at the Capital Jewish Museum, pose for a picture at an unknown location, in this handout image released by the Embassy of Israel to the U.S. on May 22, 2025.

Trump To Hold News Conference On Dc Crime After Federal Agents Hit Streets

On the night of May 17, a mob of about 100 teenagers terrorized the Navy Yard neighborhood a block from Nationals Park.

It was the second such teen takeover in less than a month.

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At about 8 p.m., police began receiving calls about disorderly conduct, but the situation quickly turned violent. One group of teens beat two bystanders, punching them, knocking them to the ground and then stomping on them, according to Wusa9.

A similar fight broke out later. Fox News Digital obtained video of the incident:

On May 9, a staffer from California Democratic Rep. Sara Jacobs' office was the victim of an armed carjacking in the Navy Yard neighborhood.

The staffer, who remained unnamed, was robbed of a government-issued iPhone, MacBook, ID and Capitol parking pass.

The next day, the car was recovered, and a 15-year-old juvenile male of Washington was charged with armed carjacking, and a 14-year-old juvenile male of Maryland was charged with carrying a pistol without a license and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) speaks at a rally with grandmas and Congressional members for "Build Back Better" in front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Dec. 9, 2021 in Washington, D.C.

In late 2023, Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, was carjacked by armed, masked men outside an apartment building that is a popular residence for members of congress, also in the Navy Yard neighborhood.

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At the time, Cuellar said he made the conscious decision not to fight back for his own safety.

He condemned the crime, calling the criminals "punks with guns," and touched on soft-on-crime policies, noting that if criminals are put in jail, "you've got to lock them up and keep them there."

Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, talks with reporters in the Capitol after a meeting of House Democrats on Thursday, June 27, 2019.

In February 2023, Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., was attacked in the elevator of her apartment in the nation's capital.

Police identified 26-year-old Kendrick Hamlin as the suspect. Craig said Hamlin punched her in the chin and grabbed her by the neck.

Craig said she fended him off with the hot cup of coffee she was carrying.

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Trump Activates National Guard Troops To Address Totally Out Of Control Crime In Washington

Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., participates in a news conference outside the Capitol on the Affordable Insulin Now Act vote in the House of Representatives on Thursday, March 31, 2022.

Other recent violent crimes include the 2023 beating death of a homeless man with a metal pipe near the Ellipse in Washington's downtown, and a Metropolitan Area Transit Authority police officer who was stabbed in the face near the D.C. Navy Yard subway station.

Fox News' Stephen Sorace, Adam Sabes, David Spunt, Charles Creitz, Landon Mion and Sarah Rumpf-Whitten contributed to this report.





Original article source: Radical DC officials treated officers like crap, police leader says  7 attacks that led to Trump takeover
Rail services to and from Uckfield and Buxted have resumed after a signal failure caused train suspensions.

Southern, which operate the services between the East Sussex towns and London Bridge, said it needed to locate the fault in the signalling cables, which were 19 miles in length.

The fault, which was first reported on Friday, was located and fixed on Monday, with the 05:31 BST being the first service to run on Tuesday morning.

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Rail replacement buses had served Uckfield and Buxted stations, which ran to Crowborough and Tunbridge Wells, where connections to London were available.

Easements were also in place for passengers that drove to affected stations, meaning that people could park at Crowborough, Haywards Heath or Three Bridges stations.

Buses and parking easements have been lifted after train services resumed as per the normal timetable.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday launched the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor, also called OMBRIC, an initiative by Science & Technology Department. Recognising the immense potential of Odisha's 574 km long coastline, which is packed with unexplored rich marine bioresources, the Odisha Science & Technology Department conceptualised OMBRIC as a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming and positioning Odisha into a global leader in marine biotechnology and Blue Economy development in the future. The initiative has the potential to contribute immensely to the field of environmental protection, science-based tourism, investment & employment, and livelihood support to the local population in coastal areas. An R&D collaboration MoU was also signed at Lok Seva Bhawan between Science & Technology Department, Government of Odisha & National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. Besides, six higher education institutions in Odisha also signed an MoU with the Odisha Government to provide R&D support for the initiative. Speaking on the occasion, the CM said that this unique platform will become a beacon of hope for the scientific community and innovation, not only for Odisha, but for the entire nation and the world. It can transform our blue economy and contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth. At a time when the world is looking towards the oceans for solutions to some of our most pressing challenges, from sustainable food systems to climate resilience, the CM said that Odisha is taking a bold and visionary step forward. Aligning with the vision of Viksit Odisha 2036 & Viksit India 2047, the CM said that OMBRIC is designed not just as a research programme, but as a platform where young entrepreneurs of Odisha can build marine biotech startups grounded in local resources and global standards. He further said that OMBRIC connects the lab to the land and research to real-world impact. From gene discovery to bioactive molecules, from bioremediation to nutraceuticals, this initiative covers the entire pipeline of marine biotechnology innovation, culminating in job creation, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. Expressing confidence in the initiative, he asserted that Odisha is no longer just a coastal state. "Odisha now seeks to be a coastal innovator. We are not just blessed by nature; we are investing in nature-based solutions. We are harnessing our biodiversity not by exploiting it, but by preserving, understanding, and responsibly utilising it," he said. Taking note of the geographic advantage and the strength of the academic and research institutes of Odisha, the CM said that we have initiated an alliance of knowledge, research, and innovation to explore the unseen gifts and threats of this coast with the help of biotechnology. Science and technology minister Krushna Chandra Patra said that Odisha has huge potential in marine biotechnology and the state will make all efforts to explore this sector to promote growth. OMBRIC is a blueprint for a prosperous future. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja also spoke on the occasion. Science and Technology Principal Secretary Chithra Arumugam welcomed the guests and Additional Secretary Puja Mishra proposed the vote of thanks. To ensure targeted and high-impact execution, six premier institutions in Odisha have been selected as hubs of OMBRIC based on their scientific expertise and regional relevance. These institutions will lead various components of OMBRIC with specific objectives aligned with their areas of expertise and the needs of the state: 1. IIT Bhubaneswar - Comprehensive mapping and monitoring of Odisha's coastal marine bioresources using satellite images, GIS, remote sensing, drone survey, etc. and assessment of coastal ecosystem health and capacity building.2. NIT Rourkela - Cultivation of unculturable marine microorganisms and extraction of novel bioactive compounds (Enzymes, Pigments, Antibiotics, etc.) with pharmaceutical and industrial applications.3. IISER Berhampur - Novel Gene discovery, characterisation and structural elucidation of marine bioactive compounds and upscaling of high-value marine products through chemical engineering.4. ILS Bhubaneswar - Establishment of a Marine Microbial Biorepository, to publish Odisha Marine Bio Resource Atlas with Genetic Footprint and to promote innovation, start-up activities in blue technology.5. Berhampur University - Marine biodiversity mapping and metabolite characterisation of Marine algae, seaweeds, fishes and other sea animals.6. Fakir Mohan University - Commercial breeding technology and scalable protocol for breeding of Indian horseshoe crabs and translational applications of extracted bioactive compounds. Crucially, OMBRIC is designed to translate research into tangible economic outcomes. Through IP generation, incubation support, and entrepreneurial mentoring, research findings will evolve into market-ready products, fostering the growth of marine biotech startups and enterprises. This "lab-to-market" pipeline ensures a sustainable ecosystem for innovation-driven marine industrialisation in Odisha. In addition to advancing research, OMBRIC places strong emphasis on community engagement and social impact. The initiative seeks to involve coastal populations through training, education, and participatory conservation, thereby fostering marine stewardship while improving local livelihoods and social equity. Development Commissioner Anu Garg, Vice Chancellor and Directors of all the six institutes (IIT-Bhubaneswar, Berhampur University, FM University, NIT Rourkela, IISER-Berhampur & ILS-Bhubaneswar), & Director NIOT were also present at the event. (ANI)
Plane, car, bus and boat  there are many ways to travel in and around Europe. But one mode of transport is gaining significant popularity, especially among young people: the train.

According to the European Union's statistical office, Eurostat, in 2023 EU rail passenger transport hit its highest level in years, with people travelling a total distance of 429 billion kilometres by train.

Across Europe, excitement for train travel has been consistent since after the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2023, rail passenger transport in the EU increased by 11.2% compared to 2022 and almost doubled in comparison with 2020.

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"International long-distance travel is booming," said Michael Peterson, head of long-distance transport at Germany's national railway company Deutsche Bahn (DB). He noted that 2024 was the strongest year in the sector for the German railway, with a 22% growth compared to the pre-Covid year of 2019.

According to a report published in June by the French authority for transports (ART), train usage in France broke a record for the third consecutive year in 2024, confirming the growth of rail transport observed since the end of the pandemic.

Passenger numbers increased by 6% in 2024 compared to 2023, representing an identical rise to the previous year, ART said.

Summer train usage also significantly improved compared to the previous year, fuelled by the Olympic Games in Paris and the rail pass, which allowed young people aged 16 to 27 to travel unlimited on regional trains for 49 ($57) per month.

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Other countries also actively encourage train travel through national and regional initiatives. For example, the 2025 edition of Spain's Verano Joven (Young Summer) programme has allocated 120 million to offer 18- to 30-year-olds discounts of up to 90% on medium-distance trains and up to 50% on high-speed trains.

The EU also aims to encourage young people to travel by train through the DiscoverEU initiative. Over 1.6 million have applied since its launch in 2018, and 391,000 travel passes have been given out so far.

What is DiscoverEU?

DiscoverEU is an initiative through the European Union's Erasmus+ programme that gives 18-year-old EU citizens or legal residents a chance to travel across Europe by rail for free with a so-called Travel Pass.

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There are two calls for applications each year, one in spring and one in autumn. Applicants have to take part in a quiz as part of the application process, unless they apply as part of a group.

Young people from non-EU states including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia and Turkey are also eligible to apply due to their association to the Erasmus+ programme.

In addition to the Travel Pass, participants also receive the DiscoverEU Youth Card, which offers discounts on public transport, hotels, food, and cultural, sporting and other activities in 36 European countries.

The national Erasmus+ agencies also organize meetings before, during and after the trip. In Bulgaria, for example, the Erasmus+ National Agency organizes pre-departure events and networking opportunities, while participants are encouraged to share travel stories and photos on social media.

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The April 2025 DiscoverEU application was open to people born between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007. Across the EU, some 156,516 young people applied for the trips and 35,753 were selected.

By country, the highest number of applications came from young people in Germany (24,194), Spain (21,414), Poland (15,932) and the Netherlands (13,106).

The countries with the most successful applicants were Germany (6,143), France (4,977), Italy (4,394), and Spain (3,501).

Other countries with lower but notable numbers of successful applicants include Romania (1,489), Austria (715) and Bulgaria (561).

Austrian European lawmakers Andreas Schieder and Hannes Heide have praised DiscoverEU for enabling young people to travel sustainably: "It is a great opportunity to make train travel attractive to young people in the EU as a climate-friendly means of transport. The future of European mobility lies on the rails."

No integrated European rail network, but DB has a plan

Although the idea of an interconnected European railway system lives on, the reality is less clear-cut if you're a regular traveller.

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Problems often begin with ticket purchases. For cross-border journeys, multiple tickets are often required, each purchased separately. This is not only inconvenient but also means passenger rights, such as compensation for missed connections, do not apply.

"Problems often arise when a railway line reaches a national border," said Sebastian Wilken, who writes about international train travel on his blog Zugpost. These issues include power supply, signalling and safety systems, track gauge differences and even the language skills of train drivers.

The EU has long recognized the problems. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has noted that cross-border rail travel remains too complicated for many citizens. "People should be able to use open booking systems to purchase trans-European journeys from multiple providers without losing their right to refunds or alternative travel,2 she said in her Political Guidelines for the European Commission published in July 2024.

The commission plans to propose legislation for "uniform digital booking and ticketing services" intended to ensure that "Europeans can buy a single ticket on a single platform and exercise their passenger rights for the entire journey".

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European railways agreed years ago to implement the Open Sales and Distribution Model, or OSDM interface standard. DB's Peterson described it as "the language through which European railways and sales service providers exchange their data." This will give the German train company access to the complete ticket portfolio of participating railways and vice versa.

For DB, access will initially start this autumn, when the Austrian Federal Railways (OBB) and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) are set to be made available. New partners are expected to join monthly. "We expect that by the end of next year, Europe will be almost comprehensively connected," said Peterson.

Booking tickets across Europe  whether from Oslo to Athens or Warsaw to Barcelona  will then be possible in a single step.

The content of this article is based on reporting by AFP, Agerpres, APA, BTA, dpa, EFE and Europa Press as part of the European Newsroom (enr) project.
A popular YouTube streamer posted on social media that he "almost [died] today" after Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department deputies drew their weapons on him and briefly detained him Sunday afternoon in what he said appears to be a swatting incident.

Rapper DDG posted on a YouTube video that he was at a paintball tournament in Castaic when police surrounded him and other participants.

I turned around and theres like six police cars and Im like, OK, whats going to happen?'" he said in the post.

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DDG said he expected law enforcement would inform him of what was happening. Instead, he said, he was detained without an explanation.

Video on social media shows DDG being searched and being walked to and placed inside a sheriffs vehicle just before 6 p.m.

Read more: 'Swatting' calls spark panic, fear, massive police responses. Can California finally crack down?

"Bro, he pulled up. Aint no 'whats up,' aint no nothing, aint no, dude, we got a call. Nothing," DDG said.

He then mimicked the pointing of a gun and said police yelled at him, "Hands in the air!"

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DDG said that he had "just got done smoking ... so, youve got to think whats going through my mental, bro.

He didn't elaborate on what he was smoking but added, "Im thinking to myself the whole time, is this real?"

Multiple calls to the Sheriffs Departments Santa Clarita station went unanswered. The departments main media relations office said it had no information about the incident.

Read more: L.A. County 18-year-old pleads guilty to making 375 'swatting' calls throughout the U.S.

As he sat in the back of the sheriff's vehicle, DDG said, he told deputies he believed he was being swatted, which occurs when a false report of a crime or emergency is made to provoke an aggressive law enforcement response.

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The most extreme examples of swatting have involved responses from Special Weapons and Tactics, or SWAT, teams.

While sitting in the sheriff's vehicle, DDG said, he read information about the potential swatting call on an open sheriffs laptop. He believed someone provided the Sheriffs Department with a description of the exact type of car he drove. He added that whoever called in the complaint said that the rapper was armed and was going to hurt himself and others.

DDG said he was held for 20 minutes before being released.

Enjoy life, life life like theres no tomorrow, he said on his stream, because you never know.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)  The Richmond County Board of Education (RCBOE) announced it intends to increase the 2025 property taxes it will levy this year by 5.33 percent over the rollback millage rate, according to a press release sent Tuesday.

The budget adopted by the Richmond County Board of Education requires a millage rate higher than the rollback millage rate; therefore, before the Board sets a final millage rate, the Aug. 12 statement from RCBOE reads in part.

In Georgia, three public hearings are required in order for the public to express opinions on the tax increase, and all residents are invited.

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The meetings will be held at Richmond County School System central office at 864 Broad Street, Augusta, GA, on the following dates:

First Public Hearing on FY26 Millage Rate: Monday, Aug. 25, starting at noon.

Second Public Hearing on the FY26 Millage Rate: Monday, Aug. 25, starting at 6 p.m.

Third Public Hearing on the FY26 Millage Rate: Tuesday, Sept. 2, starting at 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 WJBF.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  When U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet in Alaska on Friday, it will be the latest chapter in the 49th state's long history with Russia  and with international tensions.

Siberian fur traders arrived from across the Bering Sea in the first part of the 18th century, and the imprint of Russian settlement in Alaska remains. The oldest building in Anchorage is a Russian Orthodox church, and many Alaska Natives have Russian surnames.

The nations are so close  Alaskas Little Diomede Island in the Bering Strait is less than 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Russias Big Diomede  that former Gov. Sarah Palin was right during the 2008 presidential race when she said, You can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska, though the comment prompted jokes that that was the extent of her foreign policy experience.

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Alaska has been U.S. territory since 1867, and it has since been the location of the only World War II battle on North American soil, a focus of Cold War tensions and the site of occasional meetings between U.S. and world leaders.

Here's a look at Alaska's history with Russia and on the international stage:

Russian trappers and Seward's Folly

The fur traders established hubs in Sitka and on Kodiak Island. The Russian population in Alaska never surpassed about 400 permanent settlers, according to the Office of the Historian of the U.S. State Department.

Russian settlers brutally coerced Alaska Natives to harvest sea otters and other marine mammals for their pelts, said Ian Hartman, a University of Alaska Anchorage history professor.

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It was a relationship that the Russians made clear quite early on was not really about kind of a longer-term pattern of settlement, but it was much more about a short-term pattern of extraction, Hartman said.

Meanwhile, Russian Orthodox missionaries baptized an estimated 18,000 Alaska Natives.

By 1867 the otters had been hunted nearly to extinction and Russia was broke from the Crimean War. Czar Alexander II sold Alaska to the U.S. for the low price of $7.2 million  knowing Russia couldn't defend its interests in Alaska if the U.S. or Great Britain tried to seize it.

Skeptics referred to the purchase as Seward's Folly, after U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward. That changed when gold was discovered in the Klondike in 1896.

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World War II and the Cold War

The U.S. realized Alaska's strategic importance in the 20th century. During World War II the island of Attu  the westernmost in the Aleutian chain and closer to Russia than to mainland North America  was captured by Japanese forces. The effort to reclaim it in 1943 became known as the war's forgotten battle.

During the Cold War, military leaders worried Soviets might attack via Alaska, flying planes over the North Pole to drop nuclear weapons. They built a chain of radar systems connected to an anti-aircraft missile system.

Friday's summit will be at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. The base was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and it still hosts key aircraft squadrons that intercept Russian aircraft when they fly into U.S. airspace.

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The military constructed much of the infrastructure in Alaska, including roads and some communities, and its experience building on permafrost later informed the private companies that would drill for oil and construct the trans-Alaska pipeline.

Last year the Pentagon said the U.S. must invest more to upgrade sensors, communications and space-based technologies in the Arctic to keep pace with China and Russia, and it sent about 130 soldiers to a desolate Aleutian island amid an increase in Russian military planes and vessels approaching U.S. territory.

Past visits by dignitaries

Putin will be the first Russian leader to visit, but other prominent figures have come before him.

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Japanese Emperor Hirohito stopped in Anchorage before heading to Europe in 1971 to meet President Richard Nixon, and in 1984 thousands turned out to see President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II meet at the airport in Fairbanks.

President Barack Obama visited in 2015, becoming the first sitting U.S. president to set foot north of the Arctic Circle, on a trip to highlight the dangers of climate change.

Gov. Bill Walker welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport in Anchorage in 2017 and then took him on a short tour of the states largest city.

Four years later Anchorage was the setting for a less cordial meeting as top U.S. and Chinese officials held two days of contentious talks in their first face-to-face meeting since President Joe Biden took office two months earlier.

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Critics say Alaska is a poor choice for the summit

Sentiment toward Russia in Alaska has cooled since Putin invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Anchorage Assembly voted unanimously to suspend its three-decade-long sister city relationship with Magadan, Russia, and the Juneau Assembly sent its sister city of Vladivostok a letter expressing concern.

The group Stand Up Alaska has organized rallies against Putin on Thursday and Friday.

Dimitry Shein, who ran unsuccessfully for Alaskas lone seat in the U.S. House in 2018, fled from the Soviet Union to Anchorage with his mother in the early 1990s.

Russia and the U.S. are just starting to look more and more alike, he said.

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Many observers have suggested that holding the summit in Alaska sends a bad symbolic message.

Its easy to imagine Putin making the argument during his meetings with Trump that, Well, look, territories can change hands, said Nigel Gould-Davies, former British Ambassador to Belarus and senior fellow at the International Institute of Strategic Studies in London. 'We gave you Alaska. Why cant Ukraine give us a part of its territory?'

___

The story has been updated to correct the spelling of Vladivostok.

___

Johnson reported from Seattle. Associated Press writers Ed White in Detroit and Emma Burrows in London contributed.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has vastly exaggerated how much money it has saved taxpayers through its aggressive handling of federal contracts and has inflated the figure by billions of dollars, according to an in-depth analysis.

DOGE, the department previously headed by Elon Musk, has claimed it saved $52.8 billion since July by canceling waves of federal contracts it deemed wasteful or unnecessary.

However, Politicos analysis of DOGEs so-called Wall of Receipts, a database on the departments website, found that of the $32.7 billion worth of contracts it was able to examine, the actual savings amounted to just $1.4 billion, based on a review of more than 10,000 canceled contracts.

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Even more damning, this $1.4 billion figure cannot be used to reduce the deficit, as DOGE has often claimed, because it must be returned to agencies, which are mandated by Congress to spend the money appropriated to them.

Elon Musk initially claimed DOGE would reduce the deficit by $2 trillion with its cost-cutting mandate. / Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Politico suggested DOGEs figures are way off due to faulty math, including counting the maximum amount that could possibly be spent on a contract as a saving if it is canceled, even if the government would never have come close to spending that amount.

Thats the equivalent of basically taking out a credit card with a $20,000 credit limit, canceling it and then saying, Ive just saved $20,000, Jessica Tillipman, associate dean for government procurement law studies at George Washington University Law School, told Politico.

Anything thats been said publicly about [DOGEs] savings is meaningless.

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One example from DOGEs Wall of Receipts is the claim it saved $2.9 billion by canceling a contract for a shelter in Pecos, Texas, used to house undocumented migrant children. But in February, DOGE said canceling the contract for the now-empty center would save $215 million annually.

Politico said it could not verify around 40 percent of DOGE's alleged savings due to lack of identifying information. / Oliver Contreras / AFP via Getty Images

DOGE arrived at the $2.9 billion figure by taking the maximum possible cost to run the center$3.3 billionsubtracting $428 million already awarded or obligated, and calling the difference a saving.

But the $3.3 billion represented the cost of operating the facility at full capacity, amounting to around 3,000 children, for 365 days a year for five years.

The White House denied DOGE is misleading the public, insisting the department has produced historic savings for the American people.

The DOGE Wall of Receipts provides the latest and most accurate information following a thorough assessment, which takes time. Updates to the DOGE savings page will continue to be made promptly, and departments and agencies will keep highlighting the massive savings DOGE is achieving, White House deputy press secretary Harrison Fields told the Daily Beast. DOGE works directly with agencies to calculate and confirm all savings associated with contracts. Savings actions can be attributed to terminations, ending option periods, descoping and ceiling reductions. All numbers are rigorously scrubbed with agency procurement officials and updated in real time based on current information.
There is a very good reason why there will be no European representation at the summit due to take place in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the Ukraine conflict.

It is simply that, when it comes to the big geopolitical decisions affecting the future security of the continent, todays generation of European leaders cannot be trusted to make the right call.

The last time the worlds major powers met to carve up Europes borders, at the Potsdam Conference at the end of the Second World War, Britain was guaranteed a seat at the top table by virtue of the statesmanlike leadership qualities Winston Churchill had displayed throughout the conflict.

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Back then Europes fate was to be decided by the so-called Big Three, the US, Britain and Russia. Now the Big Three are the US, Russia and China  the UK barely meriting a mention.

The notion that Sir Keir Starmer, or any other European leader, might have any useful contribution to make at the Alaska summit is almost risible given their recent conduct on the other pressing security issue of the day: ending the appalling conflict in Gaza.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has made it clear that his two main foreign policy objectives are to end the conflicts in both Ukraine and Gaza. While his efforts regarding Ukraine have so far been stymied by Putins lack of interest in a ceasefire, the Trump administration has worked hard to formulate a workable ceasefire proposal for Gaza.

Indeed, by early July, Washington was indicating that Israel had broadly accepted the terms of the 60-day ceasefire deal, with the final decision on whether it would go ahead or not left in the hands of Hamas. It was torpedoed after the organisations terrorist leadership announced that it would not accept the ceasefire until a Palestinian state had been created and recognised.

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A key factor in Hamass rejection of the ceasefire deal appears to have been the decision by Starmer, together with French President Emmanuel Macron, to announce their intention to recognise a Palestinian state at next months annual UN General Assembly in New York. This is despite the fact that no such Palestinian state actually exists.

To add insult to injury, Hamas officials publicly praised the British and French leaders for declaring their intention to recognise a Palestinian state, with the terrorist organisation hailing the decision as one of the fruits of October 7.

Not surprisingly, the grandstanding exploits of Starmer and Macron, which were taken more to embarrass Israel than make any positive contribution to the plight of ordinary Palestinians, have not gone down well in Washington. Even Trump remarked that Starmers plan to grant recognition meant rewarding Hamas.

The Trump administration has blamed the collapse of Julys ceasefire talks, and Hamass decision to reject the ceasefire terms, directly on Macrons decision to recognise Palestinian statehood. Talks with Hamas fell apart on the day Macron made the unilateral decision that hes going to recognise the Palestinian state, said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

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Starmers subsequent decision to follow Macrons lead in planning to recognise Palestine only made matters worse for Washington in terms of arranging a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.

In such circumstances it is hardly surprising that the Trump administration has little appetite for including the likes of Starmer and Macron in key discussions relating to the future of Europes security when he meets with Putin in Alaska.

Instead, the Europeans, in the form of Starmers so-called coalition of the willing, have been relegated to the periphery of the negotiations, with Trump agreeing to hold video conferences with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of his summit with Putin.

Whether the American president will take on board anything Starmer has to contribute to the discussion is another matter. To date, Starmers most notable contribution to the Ukraine debate has been to float the notion of establishing some form of European security force to protect Ukraines borders once a ceasefire takes hold.

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Starmer has even talked of deploying boots on the ground, although this proposition has been quietly dropped after it was pointed out to the Prime Minister that the parlous state of our Armed Forces meant the UKs contribution would be minimal.

The other big disconnect between Starmer and Trump is that the US leader is playing for far higher stakes than simply ending hostilities in Ukraine. Trumps primary goal is to forge closer ties with Moscow in a bid to weaken Russias strategic partnership with China, a country that Washington regards as posing a far greater threat to Americas long-term security than Russia.

So when Starmer warns Trump, as he did earlier this week, that Putin cannot be trusted, the American president will politely note the Prime Ministers concerns, and then act in a way that suits his own interests.

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Torrential rain slammed the Chattanooga, Tennessee, area Tuesday night, leading to water rescues, flooded roadways, and toppled trees. In East Ridge, a suburb just south of the city, a falling tree crushed a car after midnight, killing a man, woman and child, according to the Associated Press. Search efforts continued Wednesday for a man who went through flood waters on East Brainerd Road on foot last night and has not been seen since, according to the Chattanooga Fire Department.

AccuWeather.com

Hamilton County's mayor declared a local state of emergency after downpours shattered Chattanooga's daily rainfall record.

"Officially at the airport, Chattanooga had 6.42 inches of rainfall yesterday, with most of that falling between noon and 8 p.m.," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski said. "That was a record amount of rainfall for the date, easily breaking the old record of 1.93 inches of rainfall that fell on August 12, 2013."

Flooding on I-24 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Aug. 12, 2025. (X/@HamCoTNES)

An AccuWeather Ambient weather station in Rising Fawn, Georgia, south of Chattanooga, reported 8.39 inches of rain during the event. More storms to the west of the city Tuesday morning caused flood warnings between Tullahoma and South Pittsburg, Tennessee. Roads were also reported underwater near Lynchburg.

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A flash flood watch is in effect for much of central and eastern Tennessee into early Wednesday night, as more showers and thunderstorms can occur today into tonight, and some of them can contain additional flooding downpours.

More showers and thunderstorms are expected across the eastern part of the state through the weekend, Pydynowski says. Storm coverage will be more widespread Thursday, then become less active Friday and the weekend.
One of Alaska's most populated cities is bracing for potentially catastrophic flooding as a basin dammed within the Mendenhall Glacier has started to release rainwater and snowmelt downstream, according to officials.

Suicide Basin, a side basin within the Mendenhall Glacier that sits above the city of Juneau, regularly releases glacier lake outburst floods, according to the National Weather Service. A glacial lake outburst flood occurs when a dam containing a glacial lake breaks.

But recent measurements suggest the basin could release enough water to overwhelm the Mendenhall River and Mendenhall Lake, according to officials.

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MORE: Scientists concerned 'rare' glacial flooding event in Alaska could happen again

By 7 a.m. local time, the Mendenhall River had reached a major flood stage at 16.51 feet and was continuing to rise -- surpassing the record flood stage set in 2024 of 15.99 feet, according to the NWS. Flood warnings have been issued for the lake and river due to the release.

USGS - PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, the Mendenhall Rvier is shown at Brotherhood Bridge at Auke Bay, Alaska, Aug. 13, 2025.

Residents along the flood zones have been urged to evacuate the area, with the peak flooding expected Wednesday around 8 a.m. local time.

"Don't Wait. Evacuate TONIGHT," the City of Juneau wrote in a Facebook post Tuesday night.

City officials were warning residents early Wednesday to avoid driving on roads within the flood zone already inundated by water.

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MORE: Massive, 18-mile-long Patagonia glacier experiencing rapid ice loss for 1st time

Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski posted to X on Wednesday, warning of how dire the situation could become.

"This is likely to become a life-threatening situation," Murkowski said. "If you are told to evacuate, stop what you are doing and immediately go to an emergency shelter or another safe location."

USGS - PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, Glacial Lake is shown, 2.5 Miles North of Nugget Creek near Auke Bay, AK., along the Mendenhall River, on Aug. 13, 2025.

Floodwaters are expected to fall below the flood stage through Thursday, according to the NWS.

Mendenhall is a popular tourist attraction in Alaska, but the retreating glacier -- which acts as a dam for Suicide Basin -- has caused flooding in the region every summer in recent years after it refills with water from rain and melting snow in the spring.

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MORE: Why glaciologists believe the Birch Glacier collapsed, burying a nearby Swiss town

In 2023, a glacier lake outburst at Mendenhall's Suicide Basin destroyed several structures along the Mendenhall River as the water rushed downstream. The record flooding prompted city officials in Juneau to issue an emergency declaration.

The outburst, which caused a decade's worth of erosion in one weekend, would not have happened without climate change, NOAA said in 2023. Alaska has warmed twice as fast as any U.S. state over the last several decades, according to NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information.

Suicide Basin has been releasing glacier lake outburst floods since 2011, so the National Weather Service in Juneau's monitoring program has a camera pointed directly at the basin to see how much water levels are rising and falling.

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Record-breaking flooding from Suicide Basin also occurred in 2024, which damaged nearly 300 homes, The Associated Press reported.

Glaciers in Alaska have been experiencing a steep decline since the late 1980s, according to the state's Department of Geological and Geophysical Surveys.

MORE: Severe flooding from Alaska glacial break would not have happened without climate change, scientists say

Globally, glaciers are at risk of significant ice loss due to climate change, scientists say.

Glaciers around the world lost an estimated 7,211 billion tons of ice between 2000 and 2023, equating to an average annual loss of 301 billion tons, according to a Nature study published in February. The rate of ice loss has increased by about 36% in the past two decades, the researchers found.

Even if warming were to stabilize at current levels, the world's glaciers would still likely lose at least 39% of mass, according to the World Economic Forum.
PIERRE, S.D. (KELO)  A state lawmaker wants the South Dakota Legislature to meet in a joint session on January 15 and listen to a Thomas Jefferson impersonator read the Declaration of Independence, which the real Thomas Jefferson wrote two and a half centuries ago, as part of celebrating the nations 250th birthday next year.

Republican Sen. Tim Reed also suggested that the legislative chambers of the South Dakota Capitol be adorned in red, white and blue bunting, and that lawmakers have the first reading of a commemorative resolution that day, as well as the special poem written for the 100th regular session last year be read again.

I also think all the presiding officers should be required to wear powdered wigs, Reed joked.

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Reed made his suggestions on Tuesday to the Legislatures Executive Board, which is led by the top two members of the current chambers, House Speaker Jon Hansen and Senate president pro tem Chris Karr.

Joining Reed was state historian Ben Jones, who chairs the America 250th South Dakota Commission. Jones said the Jan. 15 celebration could also feature a ringing of the Liberty Bell replica on the Soldiers and Sailors Building front lawn, across the street from the Capitol.

Jones said each state received a Liberty Bell replica in the 1950s as recognition for buying Liberty Bonds from the U.S. government. It will ring, but we want to do it properly, he said.

I think it would add to the event to hear that Liberty Bell ring, said Reed, who serves on the South Dakota commission.

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Another idea offered by Reed was to have the Thomas Jefferson impersonator mingle at the South Dakota State Historical Society legislative gathering on the evening of January 15. He also suggested that legislators could participate in planting the Liberty tree.

We dont think well have any trouble at all raising the funds, Reed said. It should have no cost to the taxpayer.

I think its going to be absolutely fantastic, Hansen said.

Jones said the museum portion of the state Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre would reopen sometime in the coming year. He said the museums curator team is designing an exhibit for the Fourth of July as part of the celebration.

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I think this is incredibly awesome, Karr said. He noted that many of Europes nations established their independence after the United States did in 1776. I think its something incredible to be proud of, Karr said.

Hansen however wasnt too enthusiastic about one of the suggestions.

Except for the powdered wigsIm not so sure about that, 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 KELOLAND.com.
Regina Hills trial delayed, next court date set for October 22

The criminal case against suspended Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill has been delayed once again. During a status hearing this morning at the Orange County courthouse, Judge Michael Kraynick did not set a trial date but instead scheduled the next hearing for October 22nd at 9 a.m. The decision pushes the legal proceedings even closer to the upcoming election, a timeline Hills legal team had hoped to avoid.

Hill, who is running for re-election, is facing seven felony charges, including exploitation of the elderly and mortgage fraud. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) alleges she used a power of attorney to take over $100,000 from a 96-year-old constituent for personal use and fraudulently obtained a mortgage. Hill has pleaded not guilty to all charges and claims she is the target of a political conspiracy.

Hills attorney, Fritz Scheller, confirmed the delay, citing the need to resolve discovery issues and take more depositions. When asked about his clients desire to have the trial concluded before the election, Scheller stated, Were going to get her justice, okay, and whatever time it takes, no matter how fast or how long.

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A significant development in the case is the prosecutions decision to use Sandra Lewis as a witness no longer. Lewis, a notary whose stamp appeared on a key document, was expected to testify that the document was altered. However, according to Scheller, her testimony will not be part of the states case. Scheller acknowledged his sense of regret at not getting to cross-examine her but was firm that her absence doesnt hurt our case, though, thats for sure.

The timing of the trial remains a critical factor for Hills political future. A trial before voters cast their ballots could significantly impact the outcome of her race against current city commissioner Shan Rose. With the next hearing now set for October, it is doubtful a trial will begin before the November election.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh rejected Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the Election Commission and said that while the Modi government's last 11 years have been about "hope and aspirations", the previous UPA government's 10 years were "only about controversies". Singh also accused Gandhi of misleading people by not submitting an affidavit. "He is not giving an affidavit and deceiving people... The last 11 years of the Modi government were about hopes and aspirations. While UPA's 10 years were only about controversies... You could have at least submitted 65,000 objects against 65 lakh voters..." Singh told reporters on Tuesday. On Monday, Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi sharply criticised the Election Commission of India, alleging it has failed to enforce the principle of "One Man, One Vote," which he described as the foundation of the Constitution. Gandhi further accused the Election Commission of neglecting its duty, asserting that the Congress party is committed to protecting the Constitution and will continue to do so. "We are protecting the Constitution. One Man One Vote is the foundation of the Constitution. It is the duty of the Election Commission to enforce One Man, One Vote, but they have not done their duty. We are protecting the Constitution, and we will keep doing it..." At the same time, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge joined fellow INDIA bloc members in staging a protest in Parliament over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue. Several Opposition MPs arrived wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan '124 Not Out'. CPI(M) MP P Sandosh Kumar said the opposition intends to intensify its campaign. "INDIA parties' leaders are more energised, and this has become an all-India campaign. We will intensify our fight against SIR. There is more unity among the coalition partners now. This will be a huge fight to save democracy...," CPI(M) said. (ANI)
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on Aug. 13 denounced as "unfriendly" a new campaign video by Georgia's ruling party that uses images of the destruction caused by Russia's war in Ukraine.

The comments refer to the Georgian Dream video published on Aug. 12, which splits the screen in two. On the left, there are black-and-white images from Ukrainian front-line cities.

The video includes bombed buildings, military equipment, a destroyed bridge, a cemetery for fallen soldiers, and grieving parents standing in the ruins of their Kyiv apartment block. The footage appears under the caption "No to war!"

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On the right side of the screen, colorful scenes of Georgia's landscapes and infrastructure improvements are accompanied by the message "Choose peace!"

This is the second time the Georgian Dream party has used war imagery from Ukraine in its political messaging. Before parliamentary elections in 2024, Georgian Dream ran posters and videos contrasting footage of bombings with images of fountains and new buses in Georgian cities.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry accused the Georgian Dream party of cynically exploiting the suffering of Ukrainians for political purposes ahead of the upcoming local elections.

"It is regrettable to watch the Georgian authorities grovel before Moscow and disregard the principles of dignity and independence that have historically characterized the Georgian nation," the ministry said in a statement.

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"We advise the ruling party's political strategists to be honest with their people and display a more truthful picture: the Russian tricolor on the right and the closed doors of the EU and NATO on the left," the statement reads.

The ministry said such actions show "disrespect for the Ukrainian people and the victims of Russian aggression" and cause "justified outrage" in Ukrainian society.

Kyiv added that it remains committed to supporting the Georgian people's aspirations for an independent, democratic, and European state.

The Russian-leaning Georgian Dream party, founded by oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili, retained power in a disputed October 2024 election that sparked mass protests and drew criticism from international observers.

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Western nations have since imposed sanctions against the South Caucasus country over democratic backsliding, and the EU suspended parts of its visa facilitation deal with Georgia in January.

Read also: Russias hybrid empire

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Reindeer populations across the Arctic will likely decline substantially due to climate change in the next several decades with the North American population facing the highest risk, researchers predict.

While the species has survived multiple periods of Arctic warming, climate change has already contributed to the loss of nearly two-thirds of the global populations of reindeer in the last three decades, according to the research team, led by the University of Adelaide in Australia and the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

There are about 9 million reindeer globally, including those that are domesticated, according to the World Population Review.

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The North American wild reindeer, also called caribou and estimated at around 3.5 million by the World Population Review, are most at risk from a warming climate, the researchers said. Caribou are found in Alaska and Canada.

The caribou populations could decline by up to 80% by 2100, "unless there are major cuts to greenhouse gas emissions and increased investment in wildlife management and conservation," Damien Fordham, an associate professor and deputy director of the Environment Institute at the University of Adelaide, said in a statement.

Caribou graze on May 13, 2025, in Denali National Park in Alaska. / Credit: Lance King / Getty Images

The researchers came to their conclusion by examining how reindeer have responded to past climate events.

"Using fossils, ancient DNA and computer models, we reconstructed changes in the abundance and distribution of reindeer over the past 21,000 years at resolutions never done before, and we directly compared these to future predictions," lead researcher Elisabetta Canteri said in a statement.

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They found that populations of reindeer have declined during past periods of "rapid climate warming."

"But the losses expected in the coming decades due to future climate change are likely to be even more severe than those in the past," Canteri said.

A decline in reindeer populations also could have wider ecological implications because the animals help maintain plant diversity in the tundra.

"A reduction in tundra plant diversity resulting from the loss of reindeer and caribou will have many cascading effects, including reduction of carbon storage in Arctic soils," said Eric Post, a professor at the University of California Davis who contributed to the research. "Continued losses will likely further exacerbate climatic warming through release of soil carbon to the atmosphere, which of course would further threaten reindeer and caribou as well as ourselves."

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President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
Egyptian novelist Sonallah Ibrahim, famed for his critiques of political repression, neoliberalism and Western hegemony, has died at the age of 88, the culture ministry announced on Wednesday.

Ibrahim "passed away today, leaving behind an immortal literary and humanitarian legacy," Culture Minister Ahmed Fouad Hanno said in a tribute, calling the writer a "pillar of modern Arabic literature".

Born in Cairo in 1937, Ibrahim was famed around the Arab world as a chronicler of social injustice, known for his sparse, documentary-style prose and his fierce independence.

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His writings -- which blurred the line between the personal and the political -- captured the struggles of the Arab world in the postcolonial era, particularly those of his native Egypt.

Arguably his most famous novel, "Zaat" (1992), tells the story of Egypt's modern history -- from the overthrow of the monarchy in 1952 to the neoliberalism of the 1990s under president Hosni Mubarak -- through the eyes of an ordinary, middle-class woman.

It was adapted into a prime-time television series in 2013, bringing Ibrahim's scathing portrayal of power to a new generation of Egyptians in the aftermath of the Arab Spring uprising that ousted Mubarak.

A dissident through and through, Ibrahim was first jailed for his leftist politics in 1959, under then president Gamal Abdel Nasser.

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His five years in prison would form the basis for his debut 1966 novel, "That Smell", which was initially banned.

Ibrahim's renown later saw many of his works translated into English and French.

In 2003, he refused to accept a prestigious literary prize from the Mubarak government charging that it "oppresses our people, protects corruption and allows the Israeli ambassador to remain while Israel kills and rapes".

The last was a reference to alleged Israeli abuses in the occupied territories during the second Palestinian intifada or uprising.

Among Ibrahim's most celebrated works are "The Committee" (1981), a Kafkaesque allegory of bureaucracy and surveillance, and "Stealth" (2007), a semi-autobiographical account of his childhood during World War II.

Generations of Arab writers found inspiration in his minimalist style, heavy with irony and rooted in everyday life.

maf/bha/kir
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  In the past seven years, rent in New Mexico has gone up by 60%. Thats double the national rate of increase, and in Santa Fe, its even higher, with an increase of 75% during the same period.

Affordable housing still a concern in Santa Fe

According to Alex Horowitz, project director of housing policy at The Pew Charitable Trusts, the primary driver of this trend is a severe lack of new housing construction. New Mexico is the only state in the Southwest that has not passed state laws to allow more homes, Horowitz said.

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Horowitz presented findings from Pews latest study to the Economic and Rural Development Committee, revealing that New Mexicos housing inventory has shrunk to just half of what it was in 2018. This shortage gives landlords a competitive edge, allowing them to raise rents significantly.

He emphasized that low- and middle-income residents are the most affected by the housing crisis. However, they also benefit the most when the housing supply increases. The benefits are largest to low-income households because it takes the pressure off the housing stock. They dont have to compete for their own homes with middle-income residents, Horowitz explained.

When discussing why more homes are not being built, Horowitz pointed to regulatory barriers in local jurisdictions, including restrictive zoning laws, outdated building codes, and slow permitting processes. For example, many areas zoned for commercial use do not allow residential developments, severely limiting where new homes can be built.

Action on housing used to be a local issue, but its now becoming a statewide concern, Horowitz said, noting that 80 housing-related laws have been passed across various states this year alone. Many of those policies permit apartment construction in commercial zones.

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He emphasized that this is the most effective policy tool available: This is probably the single most effective policy change there is because it allows for a lot more homes in places where people go every day.

Citing success elsewhere, Horowitz pointed to Minneapolis, where housing stock grew by 15% in the past seven years and rents decreased by 2%. By contrast, New Mexicos housing stock grew only 3% in the same timeframe.

Although some municipalities, such as the City of Albuquerque, have started updating zoning codes to encourage development, Horowitz said New Mexicos building codes remain largely outdated. New Mexicos building codes have not been modernized. Other states are modernizing their building codes to reduce construction costs in a way that doesnt compromise safety, he said. The zoning [in NM] is still quite restrictive.

Some Republican lawmakers expressed concern about shifting control to the state level.

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Rep. Catherine Cullen (R- Rio Rancho) said she is not for it. Local municipalities have their own local zoning and planning departments, and that fits within their own communities and what their communities want, said Rep. Cullen.

Rep. Rod Montoya (R-San Juan) also highlighted the need for more skilled labor in the building trades. He added that he thinks rural communities are working to address housing challenges, but that Albuquerques inaction is creating a bottleneck for the rest of the state.

Whereas Sen. Angel Charley (D-Bernalillo, Cibola, McKinley, Socorro & Valencia) raised concerns about rural and tribal areas, saying there is a definite housing shortage in her district, which spans Bernalillo, Cibola, McKinley, Socorro & Valencia counties.

Im still wondering what the housing solutions are for rural New Mexico, she said. What are the housing solutions for tribal communities across New Mexico, which comprise the majority of our rural areas? I appreciate the conversation and look forward to moving actual policy forward.

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The study also proposed converting vacant office buildings into co-living, dorm-style housinga more cost-effective approach. According to Horowitz, a $10 million subsidy in Albuquerque could produce either 43 studio apartments or 154 co-living units. So [by developing co-housing units] subsidiary dollars can be stretched more than three times as far, he said.

Sen. Antonio Maestas (D-Albuquerque) added, Its time to have a serious conversation at the state level. Im hoping that a lot of these initiatives will be on the callIm confident that they will.

The study gave a sobering statistic: 50% of renters in New Mexico spend at least one-third of their income on rent, and for one in four, its more than half.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Brief

Maritime experts warn that Floridas easy access to boating can lead to dangerous situations on the water.

Boating safety laws exist, but enforcement is often limited, and getting a Florida boating license only takes an afternoon online.

Locals recommend in-person training and hiring a captain for inexperienced boaters.

TAMPA, Fla. - From Beer Can Island to Shell Key, the Tampa Bay area is a boaters paradise, whether you own a vessel or rent one online. But maritime professionals say Floridas relaxed boating requirements are a recipe for accidents, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with local waters.

"I think everyone should have an understanding of how dangerous boats are. People think that they're just toys, and they don't realize how powerful they are," said Griffin Sher, a Florida Maritime Attorney with Sher & Volk, P.A. "Florida law is very simple. All you need to drive a boat is complete a boating safety course. You can do that online. It takes an afternoon. There's no one really verifying whether you're actually paying attention. I know for a fact that people commonly just have someone else take the test or they sort of only half pay attention to it."

What they're saying

Pontoon captain, Michael Cecere, has a rental company called "Your Boat For The Day." He agrees safety should come first.

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"I want you to have a great time, but safety is the most important factor," Cecere said. "Where I get concerned is when there's a lack of experience in these waters, like people come down from up north all the time, and they'll run aground, because they're not familiar with sandbars."

He recommends having a hired captain on board.

"It's a matter of having a captain that can kind of reel you in," Cecere said. "I have some great stories from my captains someone was climbing under a pontoon thinking that was fine as the water was picking it up and throwing it down. Now, had they not had a captain, that could have ended differently."

The backstory

The 2022 Boating Safety Act was meant to tighten regulations, requiring permits, insurance, and safety briefings for rental operators. But both Sher and Cecere say enforcement remains difficult for Florida Fish and Wildlife officers.

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This year, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new bill into law called "Lucy's Law," named after a 17-year-old girl who died in a boating crash in Key Largo on Labor Day weekend in 2022.

Pictured: Lucy Fernandez.

The law aligns the penalties for unsafe boating with corresponding driving offenses by enhancing the penalties for leaving the scene of a boating accident, reckless operation of a vessel and causing a deadly crash. It also expands the pool of people who must obtain a boating safety card to captain a vessel.

Anyone who has not lived in Florida for more than five years, regardless of age, must complete a required boater education and safety course.

What you can do

Experts recommend:

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Getting hands-on boating instruction from a friend, family member, or in-person certified program.

Hire a licensed captain if youre new to the area or to boating in general.

Remembering that propellers and currents can turn a fun day dangerous in seconds.

The Source

This story is based on interviews with Florida maritime attorney Griffin Sher and Tampa Bay rental boat captain Michael Cecere.
Two years ago, Mooresville Republican Craig Haggard, a first-term state representative, raised his hand to say he was interested in the 4th Congressional District seat if incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Baird decided not to run.

Baird, also a Republican, did run, and he has implied he will run for a fifth term in 2026, saying his mission is to earn the 4th District's support in 2026. But things are different now. Haggard is officially running for the May Republican primary, too, having formally kicked off his campaign with a friendly gathering of supporters in Plainfield Aug. 12.

It's off to the races for what could be the most competitive, and already contentious, congressional contests in Indiana this cycle. Because of the makeup of the district, whomever wins the primary is likely to win the general election.

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"Im sick and tired of people going to D.C. and worrying more about a vote based on them being reelected than doing the right thing," Haggard said, situated before an American flag and the restored nose of the jet he flew as a fighter pilot in the Marine Corps. "I want to go and fight. I want to go and represent you."

State Rep. Craig Haggard, R-Mooresville, launched his campaign to challenge U.S. Rep. Jim Baird in the 4th Congressional District by hosting a rally at Hummel Park in Plainfield on Aug. 12. Next to him is the AV-8B Harrier cockpit he flew in as a fighter pilot in the Marines.

The 4th Congressional District stretches from Morgan County in the south to Jasper and Newton counties in the north.

Though he only just filed his formal candidacy on Aug. 8, Haggard has already reported about $50,000 of contributions from the first half of 2025 and has $84,000 in the bank as of June 30. Baird raised $68,000 the same period, and has about $140,000 cash on hand.

Haggard jabs Baird over mailers

The race is already tense. Haggard has noted that Baird's congressional mailers have included images of his son, Beau, and have increasingly left off his first name  a move Haggard has interpreted publicly as Baird subtly introducing his son as a successor to his seat. The younger Baird has been rumored to be a potential future candidate for the seat after his father leaves.

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The elder Baird, in a fiery press release the afternoon of Aug. 12, set the record straight: It is he who will court voters in 2026 and he will "not be distracted by political games."

He condemned Haggard's comments as "baseless" and "disgusting," mentioning four times in the press release that he is a two-time Purple Heart recipient and Vietnam veteran.

"I have never wavered in my commitment to my community and my country. I will continue that fight on the House floor to ensure the people of the 4th District have a strong voice in Washington," Baird said. "My mission remains serving the people of the 4th District and earning their support in 2026."

He also stressed that President Donald Trump has endorsed him in each of his races since 2018. Trump has yet to make an endorsement for the 2026 race.

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Haggard told reporters at the event that whether his opponent is the congressman or his son, he will run the same campaign.

"If the congressman runs, great. And if his son runs, great," Haggard said. "Either way, doesnt change what Im doing. Im always going to run like Im behind. Im going to work my tail off; Ill be working every day from here until May 5."

About Craig Haggard

Haggard, a Marine and Indiana Air National Guard veteran, was elected to his Statehouse seat in 2022, serving parts of Morgan, Hendricks and Johnson counties. He is also a small business owner and commercial broker.

He was also Indiana's field representative for the National Rifle Association for six years.

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There was a sizeable labor union presence at his rally, particularly from the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters. Political director Jerome Stanford said Haggard came to their training facility in Greenwood years ago and instantly hit it off.

He said Haggard proved he is an honest broker when he voted against a bill in the Statehouse seeking to restrict project labor agreements, a bill the unions saw as anti-union. Stanford also appreciates that Haggard has friendships across the political aisle  something unions themselves have been making in recent years, too  and is accessible and available. It helps that a lot of his union members are into guns, too.

"He's a roughneck just like the rest of us," Stanford laughed.

State Rep. Craig Haggard, R-Mooresville, launched his campaign to challenge U.S. Rep. Jim Baird in the 4th Congressional District by hosting a rally at Hummel Park in Plainfield on Aug. 12. Next to him is the AV-8B Harrier cockpit he flew in as a fighter pilot in the Marines.

Though the soaring national debt is one of Haggard's top concerns, his main promise to supporters was that he would be reachable and respond to every constituent while in office.

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"And if we dont," he told the crowd, "throw it on Facebook."

Those constituents could change if lawmakers heed Trump's call to redraw Indiana's congressional maps before the midterm elections. Nomatter what new lines may be drawn, Haggard said he plans to still run for the 4th  or whatever new number is assigned to it.

"Ive worked on this for two years. I met with thousands of people, Im going to continue to."

More: Gov. Mike Braun on Trump's redistricting pitch: 'I'm listening to the legislators'

Contact IndyStar Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on X:@kayla_dwyer17

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: U.S. Rep. Jim Baird will have a challenger if he runs for reelection
WASHINGTON  Rep. Sarah Elfreth had planned to go to Israel. But she didnt.

The House member from Annapolis was among several Democratic lawmakers who were expected to attend a sponsored trip to Israel during the first part of summer recess, but who ultimately changed their minds and decided not to go, according to people familiar with the trip.

The withdrawals happened amid public pressure from Palestine supporters for lawmakers to disassociate with Israel as the fallout over the hunger crisis in Gaza continues.

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Two Maryland lawmakers traveled to Israel  Reps. Steny Hoyer, a Prince Georges County Democrat, and Johnny Olszewski, a Baltimore County Democrat. Hoyer co-led the delegation of roughly 20 Democratic lawmakers, sponsored by AIPAC, a pro-Israel lobbying organization. Elfreth was expected to be a part of the group but dropped out, along with a number of other members who were initially scheduled to join the trip.

A spokesperson for Elfreths office said the congresswoman chose to spend the week with her family. When asked if the reversal had to do with pressure to not visit Israel, the spokesperson said they couldnt comment on the reasons beyond her wanting to spend time with family.

Rep. April McClain Delaney, a Frederick County Democrat, was also scheduled to join the AIPAC delegation before eventually deciding to not go. She would have arrived in Israel after the other lawmakers, after dropping her daughter off at college. However, after her late arrival was delayed even further, she also decided to remain stateside rather than make an abbreviated trip.

About 20 members joined the AIPAC trip, which is ongoing. Its unclear how many of the original group ended up attending. The trip has become something of a tradition for freshmen Democrats. Its organized by Hoyer, one of Israels staunchest congressional allies.

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One person familiar with the trip said they werent surprised by the dropouts, saying that Israel-Gaza is a messaging tightrope for Democrats. Members want to show they are in tune with their districts feelings about the war, but they dont want to be too opposed to one of Americas closest allies  even as many have publicly criticized actions by Israels government and Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu.

The group has already met with Mohammed Mustafa, the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority, and members of Mustafas cabinet. They were also expected to meet with Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, including opposition leader Yair Lapid, before flying home Wednesday night.

AIPAC did not respond to a request for comment about the lawmakers who decided not to go.

Democrats have faced a reckoning over Israel. Though the party has historically been a strong supporter of the nation, the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack and Israels subsequent military activity in Gaza have caused an emphatic shift within the Democratic base. Many of its voters have a hostile view of Israel and, increasingly, of Israels allies in Congress.

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Although many Democratic lawmakers have condemned several decisions by the Israeli government, their condemnations often only add to the frustration of Palestinian supporters.

On July 25, Elfreth posted a statement addressing the hunger crisis in Gaza. It called for Israel to take immediate action to address the need to protect civilian lives and allow for the sustained and unimpeded access to aid and food. But the comments focused on what wasnt there.

Why wont you call it what it is? one person said. Its a genocide, another added. There were almost 50 responses, most of them criticizing the statement for not going far enough, while others threatened what would happen if she didnt do more.

Unless you forsake strongly worded statements for actions- like refusing future campaign funds from AIPAC, one person said, many of us will be forever to support (sic) a more progressive candidate.

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Youre playing it safe here, another added. Refuse @aipacs $ next campaign-i and others will be watching that closely.

The United Democracy Project, a super PAC affiliated with AIPAC, spent over $4 million supporting Elfreths congressional campaign. She said last year that the spending spree surprised her.

I literally read about it when everybody else read about it, she said.

Both Hoyer and Olszewski have been criticized online for the trip to Israel.

Hamas, the terrorist group that controls Gaza, continues to hold captive 50 hostages who were kidnapped during the Oct. 7th attack. Only 20 of those are believed to be alive. And people in Gaza are in an ongoing hunger crisis. Humanitarian aid has been limited for months, with a private organization in charge of food aid distribution at sites controlled by the Israeli military, where over 1,400 people have been killed while seeking food since May, according to the United Nations.

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Israel has allowed aid to be airdropped, but that has led to additional injuries and deaths from people being struck by the falling packages. Five more people died from starvation and malnutrition over the weekend, according to the Gaza Health Ministry  which is controlled by Hamas. The deaths bring the total killed by starvation to 217.

Further Israeli military strikes and their plan to occupy Gaza City have exacerbated an already fraught dynamic. The announcement followed a video Hamas posted of an emaciated Israeli hostage digging his own grave.

As the third anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack approaches, theres no indication a ceasefire is imminent. Hamas continues to refuse to release the remaining hostages it kidnapped almost two years ago. And the situation in Gaza has only deteriorated.

Six journalists were killed by an Israeli military strike on Gaza City on Sunday, including five for the news outlet Al Jazeera. The Israeli military said it targeted one of the reporters, Anas Al-Sharif, after accusing him of leading a Hamas cell. Al Jazeera has denied the allegation.

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A number of Republicans have also made the trek to Israel. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, visited the country last week. Another group of Republican lawmakers on an AIPAC-sponsored trip is there this week. But conservatives are not without their own infighting about Israel-Gaza.

In late July, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia became the first Republican to call whats happening in Gaza a genocide. In a post on X, she lambasted fellow Republican Rep. Randy Fine of Florida for callous comments on the hunger crisis.

_____
TV presenter Jay Blades has appeared before Telford Magistrates' Court charged with two counts of rape.

Mr Blades, best known for hosting BBC show The Repair Shop, appeared via video link and did not enter a plea during the hearing.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place between November 2022 and April 2024.

Mr Blades, who appeared under his full name Jason Blades, was granted conditional bail and is next due to appear before Shrewsbury Crown Court on 10 September.

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Mr Blades, from Claverley, Shropshire, was told by the court not to contact the complainant.

The 55-year-old spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth, and to thank the judge at the end of his hearing.

Mr Blades became one of the best-known faces on British TV after The Repair Shop launched in 2017, with members of the public bringing their treasured possessions and heirlooms to be fixed.

He has also hosted Money for Nothing, Jay Blades' Home Fix and Jay and Dom's Home Fix, and in 2022 he fronted a documentary about learning to read at the age of 51.

He stepped back from presenting The Repair Shop last year.

Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.

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The Brief

A final report on the chemical odor at Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School found high levels of volatile organic compounds, though consultants stated all compounds were "well below" exposure limits.

Parents expressed concerns about their children's safety at a recent school board meeting, prompting the district to update them on the findings.

PHOENIX - A final air quality report has revealed details about the chemical odor that forced Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School to close last week.

What we know

The school was shut down following reports of an odor related to roofing repairs. Air samples were taken and sent for testing, and parents expressed their concerns to school officials at a recent board meeting.

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"My asthmatic son goes to Kids Club. One Friday I walked in the doors, there were only about 10 children left, and my eyes teared up from the fumes," one parent said.

Another parent added, "I hope all of these chemicals are safe because I'm concerned about the safety of my daughter."

Dig deeper

An initial report last week found unsafe levels of particulates in the air. The final indoor air quality report, released Tuesday, showed what those particulates were made of.

Dominion Environmental Consultants took a sample from a classroom on Aug. 5 and found high levels of total volatile organic compounds. In their letter to the district, Dominion said that "All compounds with published exposure limits were all well below the established exposure limits."

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All categories were normal, except for the "coatings" category, which was noted as "severe."

The school district sent a letter to parents with the update from Dominion, adding that roof work has not yet resumed, and they will keep parents informed of the next steps. A school representative declined to comment on the matter, citing pending or potential litigation.

FOX 10 also learned that no asbestos was found on campus.

What they're saying

Will Humble, director of the Arizona Public Health Association, has worked in public health for more than 35 years and has dealt with several situations of poor air quality inside schools. He was not involved in this case but, looking at the report, reading news articles, and drawing from his experience, he believes this is indicative of chemicals involved in the schools roofing project.

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He says roofing projects typically happen in the summer, weeks before students arrive, because the materials inside the roofing tar have a process called "off gassing," an emitting of chemicals. He says that happens faster in the summer because of the heat.

He thinks that is why the Dominion report found severe levels of coating products and materials, described as sealants, paints, and varnish.

"Well when it off gasses really fast  guess what? That means any of the fresh air intake gets put into the air conditioning system is going to put those compounds into the breathable air for the students and the teachers  and that's what looks like happened here," Humble said.

Humble says it's hard to tell if there will be any long-term effects, as several individual factors, like a child's health or vulnerabilities, can make a difference.

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He says that generally, the longer you are exposed to those hydrocarbons, the more likely it is for people with conditions like asthma to have reactions.

"What happened here, is the contractors were using a tarry substance that had some what we call aliphatic hydrocarbons  or basically, it's not hydrogen or diesel, but hydrocarbons like hydrogen or diesel that were used as part of the tarring process on the roof," Humble said.

While the recommended level of exposure for these coating particles is 500 nanograms per liter in the report, there were 14,000 in the classroom. The report says that within this range, it's possible people inside the room can feel the effects.

The good news, Humble said, is he did not find any cancer-causing chemicals in the report.

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"Root cause analysis: It's not a bad thing they were fixing the roof  it's a good thing they were fixing the roof. What's bad is they didn't plan in advance to make sure it was completed long enough before the start of the school year so it wouldn't infiltrate into the HVAC system and make an unpleasant environment for the students and the faculty," Humble said.

Click to open this PDF in a new window.
(WFXR)- A new report from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Office of Inspector General determined severe occupational staffing shortages at Veterans Heath Administration facilities increased 50 percent from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal year 2025.

According to the report, VHA facilities reported 4,434 severe occupational staffing shortages in FY 2025, compared to 2,959 total shortage occupations in FY 2024.

New veterans transportation services operator in Franklin, Henry, and Pittsylvania counties

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Medical Officer occupations were the most critical, with 94 percent of VHA facilities reporting severe occupational staffing shortages in 2025. Meanwhile, 79 percent of VHA facilities reported severe shortages for nurses during that same time period.

Fifty-seven percent of facilities reported severe clinical staffing shortages in psychology. And 58 percent of facilities reported shortages in VHA police. It was followed by custodial workers, with 57 percent of facilities reporting shortages.

The report stated that all 139 VHA facilities reported staffing shortages.

The Office of the Inspector General is required by federal law to compile data on VHA staffing shortages annually. It did not make any recommendations.

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U.S. Senator Mark Warner blamed the Trump administration for the spike in severe staffing shortages.

How do skyrocketing staffing shortages and declining applicant pools make it more efficient for veterans to access the care and services they deserve, said Warner. The answer is: they dont. If the administration is serious about honoring our veterans, it needs to stop undermining the VA workforce and start recruiting and retaining the skilled professionals who care for our heroes.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Wednesday expressed grief following the death of 11 devotees in a road accident near Bapi village of Dausa district, and ordered prompt and proper treatment for the injured. Sharing a post on X, CM Sharma said, "The news of loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured. May God grant a place at His divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured." Eleven people died in the accident as a pick-up truck carrying devotees from Khatu Shyam Temple collided with a trailer truck near Bapi village, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ravi Prakash Sharma said. DSP Sharma told ANI, "A total of 11 people have died. This includes four children and seven women... One woman died after reaching SMS Hospital, where she was referred to from Dausa." The mishap occurred between 3:30 AM and 3:45 AM on Wednesday. "Bapi PS area in Dausa district between 3:30 AM and 3:45 AM, an accident occurred between a container and a pick-up truck," DSP Sharma said. Out of the people injured in the mishap, nine were referred for treatment in Jaipur, while three were being treated in the District Hospital, Dausa District Collector Devendra Kumar said. "Nine people have been referred for treatment, and three are being treated in the District Hospital... The accident occurred between a passenger pick-up and a trailer truck," Kumar told ANI. A devotee travelling in the truck said that there were at least 22 people from Uttar Pradesh's Etah who were travelling in the vehicle. "We are from Etah. There were 22-23 people (in the truck), and children aged 6-7 years also died in the accident. 10-11 people are dead," Santosh Kumar said. (ANI)
Republican Majority Leader Steve Scalise went on Fox Business to display his wild, willful ignorance regarding public broadcasting.

Scalise, who represents Louisiana, helped lead GOP efforts to eliminate the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which will put hundreds of free, local stations and shows in jeopardy. His response? His constituents should just pay for it.

Getting rid of the USAID, public broadcastinglook, if you wanna go watch public broadcasting you can pay for it, Scalise told Fox Businesss Maria Bartiromo. You know, people that wanna watch your show, and a lotta people do, they can pay good advertising dollars because its a popular show. If nobodys watching your programtheyre too many options today in cable programming to have taxpayers funding to the tunes of tens of billions of dollars. We got rid of that wasteful spending, and its just the beginning.

Steve Scalise: "Look, if you want to go watch public broadcasting, you can pay for it." pic.twitter.com/IOrRVYRdGe  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 13, 2025

This is not how public broadcasting works, or any publicly funded service for that matter. American citizens already are paying for public broadcasting, and they were receiving worthwhile content in return, from emergency weather alerts to educational content like Ken Burns documentaries and Sesame Street. And even if they werent, Scalises argument would likely leave mostly poor Americans in rural areas he wants to take public broadcasting from paying even more.

This isnt about waste, fraud, and abuse. Its about Republicans and their yearslong war against Corporation for Public Broadcastingfunded institutions like PBS and NPR. For years, the networks have been targeted by conservatives, who frame them as deeply ideological propaganda rather than basic media. Only time will tell how their own constituents will be impacted.
Six reputed members and associates of the Hoover Criminal Gang were arrested Wednesday in what authorities called the first major takedown of a sex trafficking operation in the Figueroa Corridor of South Los Angeles.

The Hoovers largely controlled sex trafficking and prostitution along a 3.5-mile stretch of Figueroa Street between approximately Slauson Avenue and Century Boulevard from February 2021 to August 2025, according to a 155-page federal indictment charging 11 people.

Gang members and associates allegedly recruited vulnerable minors and young women  including runaways and children from the foster care system  through social media and branded them with tattoos, prosecutors charged.

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Victims were recruited through false promises of a luxurious lifestyle, intimidation, and actual or threatened violence and were plied with drugs ranging from the synthetic painkiller oxycodone to amphetamines, according to the indictment.

Federal authorities allege Amaya Armstead, 25, a.k.a. Lady Duck, of South Los Angeles, was the de facto leader of the 112 set of the Hoover Criminal Gang and sex trafficked a 14-year-old girl. Armstead has been charged with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

Armstead's attorney declined to comment.

Indicted alongside Armstead were Kenyondre Young, 22; Naziz Harris, 19; Derail Robinson, 22; Jalon Phillips, 22; Bryan Isrel, 31, Tejohn Gray, 25; and Tommy Crockham, 30,  all from South L.A. Also charged were Avery Amoako, 27, of Long Beach; Jared Evans, 29, of the Mid-City area of L.A. and Mathew Brooks, 22, of Riverside.

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Along with the RICO charge, the defendants are facing various other charges, including sex trafficking of minors; sex trafficking through force, fraud, or coercion; transportation of a minor for sex trafficking; sexual exploitation of a child; drug trafficking conspiracy; money laundering to promote specified unlawful activity; and conspiracy to straw purchase firearms.

Local and federal authorities arrested Amoako, Evans, Brooks, Phillips and Crockham on Wednesday morning. Armstead was transferred from state custody to federal custody. Authorities are still looking for Isrel. Three defendants are in state custody in California and Harris in Nebraska.

Armstead, Amoako, Evans, Phillips and Brooks pleaded not guilty Wednesday afternoon.

Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor in L.A., called the operation "the first step in returning the Figueroa Corridor  long known as prostitution haven  back to its residents who have suffered for too long while criminals were allowed to run amok.

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"There are no meaningful consequences for their conduct under state law, so the federal government  aided by its local law enforcement partners  will step in to make sure these criminals face lengthy prison sentences," Essayli said in a news release.

Nicknamed "The Blade," the Figueroa Corridor is by far the most notorious sex trade hub or "track" in the city. Police officials and advocates for trafficking victims say that the Hoovers gang has long held a stranglehold on the area.

According to the indictment, the Hoovers formed in the late 1970s and their territory largely encompassed the Figueroa Corridor.

Gang members and associates allegedly acted as pimps "by managing and monitoring their victims, pooling resources to rent several motel rooms for commercial sex dates  and sending each other money via Cash App and Apple Pay," according to the U.S. Attorney's news release.

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Victims were allegedly forced to turn over proceeds from commercial sex dates to the pimp. If a victim refused or otherwise disobeyed a pimp, they allegedly faced discipline, including assaults, berating and public humiliation, withholding of affection, drugs, or food, draconian overtime hours, or firing, according to the indictment.

In exchange, according to the indictment, pimps were expected to provide protection, clothing, housing, food and beauty services. Prosecutors said sex workers were required to have their hair and nails done at all times "because their grooming was a status symbol that reflected on her pimp."

Victims were also branded with tattoos of a defendants moniker, according to the indictment.

The gang members and associates allegedly focused on recruiting vulnerable minor girls and young women, "particularly those with financial or emotional struggles or who had run away from home," according to the news release from federal prosecutors.

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In one case in April 2022, Gray and two accomplices drove to an area of San Bernardino notorious for prostitution activities and allegedly attempted to force two women into their car. Both victims broke free, according to the news release.

In April 2024, according to the indictment, Armstead and Evans allegedly rented rooms at the Stadium Inn, a South Los Angeles motel, including one in which a 14-year-old girl was sex trafficked for at least three consecutive days.

According to the news release, some members of the Hoovers criminal enterprise produced rap music and videos, which often glorified the gang, sex trafficking, drug sales and firearms possession. Gang members also allegedly posted videos and photographs of their assaults on others to social media, "in order to intimidate their victims and ensure their compliance in performing commercial sex work for the enrichment of their pimps and the Hoover gang itself."

If convicted, some defendants would face a minimum of 15 years and potentially up to life in federal prison.

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Times staff writer Libor Jany contributed to this report.



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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
BEAVER TWP., Ohio (WKBN)  A staff member at Angels for Animals received medical treatment after she was bitten by a dog surrendered to the shelter by its former owners.

Diane Less, Angel for Animals founder, explained to First News that it was a tragic situation all around. It began when the dogs owners contacted the shelter to surrender the animal. When they arrived, Less noted they were treating the animal unkindly, yelling at it and jerking on its leash.

They just wanted rid of this dog, and we wanted more than anything to get the dog off of them, Less said.

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She said the dog had a suspected medical problem over the weekend, with blood in its stool, prompting a concern of parvovirus  a contagious virus that affects dogs and poses a risk in shelter environments. The vet came in over the weekend and tested the animal, determining that it did not have parvo, attributing the bloody stool to possibly stress or if the animal had been kicked.

Less said the dog had raised some red flags, such as growling, but those at the shelter wanted to do their best to help it.

We try to give animals every opportunity we have, but in the case of this guy, it didnt work out.

She said a staff member with around 10 years of experience was working with the dog when it bit her hand. Less says the staff member received treatment and is OK, but due to its aggressive behavior, the animal was euthanized.

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We try to save everything You hear everybody talk about no-kill shelters. A no-kill shelter, what that actually means in shelter lingo, is you do not euthanize adoptable pets. An adoptable pet is friendly and healthy. This dog was not.

She said this is the side of animal rescues that the public doesnt always know about, the danger of dealing with a potentially aggressive animal when trying to help it.

She said that some people or rescues may feel like they are betraying these animals if they give them what she described as a very peaceful euthanasia, but says that is not at all the case.

Less says shelters are meant to be a temporary spot for animals  not an extended stay like some animals experience  only serving as a passage to a real home. But for dogs with behavioral issues who may find themselves living in a shelter for years, Less compared it to an inmate living in a prison, saying theyd rather use the space and financial resources on an animal that could be adopted out to a home.

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After the dog that bit the staff member was euthanized, it was sent to a lab for testing to ensure it didnt have rabies.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Researchers have discovered a startling link between often misunderstood scavenging species and public health, revealing just how interconnected human survival is with nature.

As NPR reported, a study published in PNAS found that over one-third of vertebrate scavenger species, such as vultures, are threatened by extinction or experiencing population declines. If they disappear, it could result in an untold number of human deaths.

For instance, environmental economist Anant Sudarshan and his colleague Eyal Frank detailed how the decline of the vulture in India contributed to 100,000 deaths in the early 2000s. They published their findings last year in the American Economic Review.

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According to that report, vulture populations in India began to drop dramatically in the late 1990s. It wasn't long until the country's estimated 50 million birds numbered in the thousands.

"When I used to go to school, the school bus would cross the river. And you always saw these vultures in vast quantities," Sudarshan told NPR. "... Then they just sort of disappeared."

Researchers identified the livestock painkiller diclofenac as the culprit, as it was poisonous to vultures, which ingested it during feeding. However, the damage was done.

With fewer vultures to clean up rotting carcasses, harmful bacteria multiplied and contaminated water supplies. What's more, feral dogs had an abundance of food to feast upon, and their numbers began to rise. Researchers linked their prevalence to an increase in human-animal conflict and thousands of additional rabies infections.

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Stanford University biologist Chinmay Sonawane put it simply when discussing the matter with NPR: "To a certain extent, vultures were controlling these possible routes of disease."

Fortunately, this isn't the end of the vulture's story in India or around the world. In 2006, the Indian government outlawed diclofenac in the treatment of cattle, and it has taken further regulatory action to protect the birds from extinction.

In South Africa, repopulation efforts have led to a small but thriving vulture population at Shamwari Private Game Reserve. More broadly, conservation organizations worldwide are working to counteract a sixth mass extinction event underway as a consequence of human activities.

"The take-home message is that we need to be always factoring nature into the equation of human health," Maastricht University biologist Christopher O'Bryan told NPR. "We can't ignore it."

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.

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Scientists at Iowa State University have determined that co-locating solar panels and certain plants may be beneficial for crop production.

The research team, led by principal investigator Ajay Nair, is one year into a four-year study into how different solar panel heights and designs impact crop yields. The study is being done on agrivoltaic farmlands where solar installations and plants occupy the same space, according to PV Magazine.

Researchers began their work by testing plant growth in the industry-standard configuration for panels on utility-scale solar farms.

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"In an attempt to have the biggest bang for our research buck, we focused our initial farming efforts on the industry standard," Nair told PV Magazine. "If we can make it work there, then we can make it work at the many current and future utility-scale farms. In this way, we hope to more quickly translate the research into recommendations for farmers interested in agrivoltaic practices."

The team initially grew crops around single-axis tracking panels, which move with the sun throughout the day. They found that strawberries are able to thrive in this environment. Nair also said that summer squash and peppers grew better around the solar panels.

"These results are why this research is important, as we need to inform farmers of what their best options would be if they explore agrivoltaic practices," he told PV Magazine.

Now, the scientists are moving on to fixed-tilt panels, which sit at the same angle throughout the day. They will examine whether crops, like the strawberries, are able to withstand a more consistent shadow pattern.

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The project was funded by a $1.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office in 2022, according to PV Magazine.

This research is helpful for farmers looking to create agrivoltaic fields. This method of planting and solar harvesting can be lucrative. It allows landowners to maximize their acreage and generate revenue from two different streams. The solar panels can lower energy costs, while surplus energy can be sold to the power grid.

Increased solar production can reduce our reliance on dirty energy, which is contributing to the heat-trapping pollution that has exacerbated extreme weather events.

The Iowa State research team has three more years of research to conduct before concluding its study. However, its initial results indicate promising findings that can help farmers better configure agrivoltaic fields.

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.




Hundreds of residents in Alaskas capital of Juneau have been urged to evacuate over an imminent glacial flood threat.

On Tuesday, Juneau officials said on Facebook that there was a glacial outburst at Suicide Basin, a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier above Juneau, according to the National Weather Service.

As the Mendenhall Glacier recedes in a warming climate, the basin has released glacier lake outburst floods that have caused an overflow of water along Mendenhall Lake and River every year since 2011.

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The basin is releasing and flooding is expected along Mendenhall Lake and River late Tuesday through Wednesday, Juneau officials wrote in Tuesdays post. Residents are advised to evacuate the potential flood inundation area.

The Anchorage Daily News reported that more than 1,000 residents and businesses were placed under the evacuation alert.

Hundreds of residents in Alaskas capital of Juneau have been urged to evacuate over an imminent glacial flood threat (Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News via AP)

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning until Thursday at 8 a.m. local time. The Mendenhall River is currently at 9.85 feet, and the major flood stage for the river is 14 feet. The service warned the river will crest at 16.6 feet at around 4 p.m. Wednesday.

This forecasted flooding could break a record, which was set when the Mendenhall River crested at 15.99 feet in August 2024.

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Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has issued a disaster declaration in response to the imminent glacial flood threat.

By issuing this declaration before the flood occurs, we can position state resources and personnel in advance to support local and tribal governments in their efforts to protect lives, homes, and essential services, Dunleavy said in a statement. Our goal is to act early to reduce impacts and preserve community safety.

A side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier has caused floods every year since 2011, but recently these weather events have gotten more intense (Marc Lester/Anchorage Daily News via AP)

The imminent record-breaking flood this summer follows two years of severe flooding, according to a press release from Alaskas Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, which announced Dunleavys declaration.

After last years devastating flooding, which damaged homes and public infrastructure, two miles of flood control barriers along the Mendenhall River were installed.

I really do feel like we are prepared this year, Juneau Manager Katie Koester told The Washington Post. Im really hoping that well have a success story by Thursday.
BELTON, S.C. (WSPA)  This week, Unsolved Upstate digs into the 2001 unsolved murder of Jennifer Lawson, who was shot and killed at a party in Anderson County.

It happened on June 26, 2001. Deputies said Jennifer Lawson was 29 years old when she was tragically killed at a house party on Camelot Forest Drive in Belton. Investigators believe Lawson was an unintended victim of violence that erupted outside.

The Party

Lawson was at a small gathering in Belton that investigators said grew larger through word of mouth as the night went on. Dozens, possibly over 100 people, showed up, including people from outside the Belton area.

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Investigators said three unknown men arrived in a dark-colored sedan. A verbal argument escalated outside, and one of the men reportedly pulled out a gun, causing people to scatter. As the men began to leave, the sheriffs office said at least one shot was fired.

The bullet went through a partygoers shoulder, passed through the wall of the home, and struck Lawson inside. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the sheriffs office.

Investigators believe Lawson had no knowledge of the dispute outside and was a completely innocent victim.

Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office

Wrong Place, Wrong Time

Jennifer Lawson (Courtesy: Anderson Co. Sheriffs Office)

Every indication that we have is that Jennifer had zero to do with the outside altercation, said Corey Smith, an investigator from the Anderson County Sheriffs Office.

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More than 20 years later, the case remains unsolved, and the Anderson County Sheriffs Office is actively seeking public assistance to generate new leads.

Corey Smith, part of the cold case unit, emphasized the importance of community involvement.

Jennifer Lawson deserves justice, Smith stated, urging anyone with information to come forward.

New Cold Case Unit

The cold case unit, recently established by the Anderson County Sheriffs Office, aims to revisit unsolved cases like Lawsons with renewed focus and resources. Smith, who previously worked with the NYPD, is optimistic about the potential for breakthroughs with the help of modern forensic techniques and community tips.

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The Anderson County Sheriffs Office continues to seek justice for Jennifer Lawson, hoping that renewed attention and community support will lead to the resolution of this tragic case.

Somebody knows something, Smith said, calling for anyone with information to assist in bringing closure to Lawsons family.

Jennifer Lawson

How to Help

Anyone with information, no matter how small, is urged to contact the Anderson County Sheriffs Office or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Its been 24 years. Investigators stressed that circumstances and loyalties may have changed. The sheriffs office said now is the time to come forward.

Anderson County Sheriffs Office: (864) 260-4444

Crime Stoppers: 1-866-917-TIPS (8477)

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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.
The widow of a man who died while crossing a drawbridge in downtown Milwaukee three years ago has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Milwaukee and several contractors.

Richard and Rose-Marie Dujardin visited Milwaukee from Rhode Island on Aug. 15, 2022, for a Catholic Financial Life convention. On that day, the couple walked from their Hilton hotel to attend Mass at Old St. Marys Catholic Church on Broadway.

They had to cross the Kilbourn Avenue Bascule Bridge to get there.

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Rose-Marie Dujardin walked a few feet ahead of her husband, Richard Dujardin, a 77-year-old retired reporter from the Providence Journal.

The bridge began to open just as Rose-Marie Dujardin made it across.

Richard Dujardin moved slowly and was hard of hearing, and apparently didn't notice when the barricades dropped and the siren sounded.

The father of six and grandfather of 12 did not make it to the other side and fell 20 feet to his death.

More: Wisconsin's State Bar settles lawsuit, agrees to curb DEI language from programs

In a 21-page complaint, filed Aug. 12 in Milwaukee County Civil Court, Rose-Marie Dujardin allege the CCTV cameras used to remotely operate the span were faulty when the bridge opened.

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Along with the city, Bloom Companies LLC, Liberty Insurance Underwriters Inc., HNTB Corp., Edward Kramer & Sons, Faith Technologies Inc., and Dante Hamilton, who was the remote bridge operator at the time of the incident, are named as defendants.

City Attorney Evan Goyke told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he could not comment on pending litigation.

Rose-Marie Dujardin claimed in the lawsuit Bloom and HNTB, both consulting engineering companies, knew or should have known the CCTV camera model and placement they signed off on wouldn't provide adequate visibility for the remote operator.

That condition directly caused Richard Dujardins death, establishing grounds for punitive damages, she claims in the lawsuit.

Richard Dujardin of Rhode Island died Aug. 15, 2022, after falling 20 feet from the Kilbourn Avenue Bascule Bridge along West Kilbourn Avenue in Milwaukee as the bridge was going up.

The consulting companies directed the cameras be placed on east- and west-facing utility poles, rather than mounting them on bridge turrets that were designed to view pedestrian, vehicle and boat traffic around the bridge, according to the lawsuit.

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Dujardin alleged in her court filing that the consultants and the city failed to work with an audiovisual technology professional regarding the CCTV cameras, and that no one on the design team had experience or training to do it themselves.

More: Feds charge Milwaukee businessman with securities violations, defrauding investors

Hamilton, the bridge operator, told police when the incident occurred he was unable to see Richard Dujardin because Dujardin was wearing a dark-colored suit, it was hard to spot him in the afternoon light and the camera angle didn't provide a clear view.

Dujardin's lawsuit contends operators have had this trouble since 2007, as well as problems with long lagging footage, freezing frame, blurriness and shadows obscuring pedestrians.

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No criminal charges were ever filed in Richard Dujardin's death.

Chris Ramirez covers courts for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He can be reached at caramirez@gannett.com.

This story was updated to add new information.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Widow says cameras on Kilbourn Bridge in Milwaukee were faulty
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)  The Richmond County Sheriffs Office (RCSO) is asking the publics help in locating two men after two different Family Dollar Stores were hit.

On August 12th an Armed Robbery occurred at the Family Dollar at 3447 Peach Orchard Road. The subject is a black male between 57 and 509.

The subject appeared to be wearing a wig and a Nike Face Mask. He left the scene on foot in the area of Rosier Road. This subject should be considered Armed and Dangerous.

Victor James Evans

In a separate incident on August 12th, Victor Evans is wanted for a Smash and Grab Burglary at the Family Dollar at 825 Laney Walker Boulevard, according to RCSO.

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Evans was last seen on foot at Chevron on Walton Way and is believed to still be in the general area. He also known to frequent the Olive Road and Deans Bridge Road area.

Victor Evans is believed to be homeless.

Any information concerning either on of these subjects, please contact On-Duty Investigator with the Richmond County Sheriffs Office at (706) 821-1020 or (706) 821-1080.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
RICHMOND, Calif. (KRON)  One Richmond Police Department Officer was involved in two deadly shootings this year, according to officials. On August 4, Officer Nicholas Remick and a second RPD officer fatally shot a U.S. Marine, 27-year-old Angel Montano, at his familys home on First Street, officials said.

On February 4, Remick and a second officer shot Jose De Jesus Mendez Rios in Richmond, according to a California Department of Justice database. Their use of lethal force for the Rios case is still under investigation by state DOJ officials.

Officers were initially dispatched August 4 to the First Street home because the Marines brother called 911. He told dispatchers that Montano was threatening to kill him with a kitchen knife.

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He has mental issues. Hes in the living room right now. The door is open, we told him to leave, hes not leaving, Montanos brother told a 911 dispatcher.

Angel Montano, left, steps through the front door on August 4, 2025. (RPD Image)

The dispatcher asked, Has he hurt anybody with the knife?

The brother answered, Not yet, but he will. Montano was previously treated for mental health at John Muir Hospital, but hospital staff members did not provide a diagnosis to the family. He has paranoia, the brother added.

Montanos voice can be heard in the background of the 911 call while Montanos mother stood between her two sons to keep them apart. The brother confirmed to the dispatcher that Montano was a Marine veteran.

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The brother told the dispatcher that Montano was not making sense, and he does this all the time.

Angel Montano (Photos courtesy GoFundMe)

Seven minutes into the 911 call, Montano became suspicious of the 911 dispatcher and demanded to know her name. The dispatcher declined because she is a civilian, and not an officer.

Put down the knife, please, Angel, the brother pleaded. Montano then picked up a second knife, the brother told the dispatcher.

Six police officers were standing outside of the house, including some with guns drawn. The Richmond Police Department said dispatchers remained on the phone with the brother and provided updates to officers as they remained outside.

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Officers outside could hear a loud altercation happening inside the home. Officers, fearing that someone inside the residence was being harmed, advanced to the residence, RPD wrote. Within seconds of officers announcing their presence at the front door, Montano appeared and rapidly advanced at the officers, holding two knives, RPD wrote.

Richmond Police Department officers stand at the front door of the Montano family home on August 4, 2025. (RPD Image)

After the Marine ignored orders to stop, officers Stocking and Remick fired their service weapons, lethally wounding the domestic violence suspect, according to police.

Immediately after the shooting, the Marines mother can be heard in the 911 call wailing with shock and dismay.

While the scene was blocked off with yellow crime tape, people who knew Montano were very emotional. One man shouted at police, Look it up! Angel Montano, Marine veteran. Another man yelled at officers, You killed one of your own.

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RPD Lt. Donald Patchin told reporters, This isnt the outcome that we want. We would much rather have a peaceful outcome. Their belief at that time was that there was an immediate need for them to go in.

The police department placed Stocking and Remick on administrative leave per RPD policy. This is the second time that Remick has been placed on leave by Richmond Police Department for a fatal shooting this year.

Rios was wanted on February 4 for a probation violation warrant related to domestic violence charges. According to RPD, Rios was in a 32-minute standoff with officers and ignored their commands by Union Pacific Railroad tracks near Carlson and Regatta boulevards. After officers attempted to de-escalate the situation and reach a peaceful resolution, 51-year-old Rios was fatally shot by Remick and Officer Jessica Khalil, according to the DOJs database.

The California Department of Justice said it is required to investigate all incidents of an officer-involved shooting resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian.

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On Monday, the Richmond Police Department released body camera videos of the August 4 shooting. Video redacted by RPD from Remicks body worn camera can be viewed here. Video redacted by RPD from Stockings body worn camera can be viewed here. The 911 call can be listened to here.

The Richmond Police Officers Association (RPOA) wrote Monday, Officers were responding to a violent, armed threat inside a home. We welcome the release of todays body-worn camera footage, which shows officers confronting an armed individual threatening the lives of family members inside a home and acting under a clear, immediate threat to public safety.

RPOA blasted several Bay Area media outlets stories on Remick for hit-piece sensationalism, and prioritizing past headlines over facts.

The police officers union continued, We urge the public and the media to review the footage in full before rushing to judgment. Todays footage reminds us that policing often requires relentless courage under threat  not hindsight-fueled accusations. Our officers deserve fairness, accuracy, and respect.

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Officials with the Richmond Police Department and Contra Costa County District Attorneys Office are investigating the Montano case and reviewing the officers use of lethal force.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, speaking on the recent Fatehpur incident, claimed that communal politics is causing harm to the country and slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "Communal politics is causing a lot of harm to the country... Ask the BJP what the area of India was in 2014 and what the area of India is in 2025?" questioned Akhilesh Yadav,on Tuesday evening. "They will not answer... It is important for us that communal politics ends. People should get jobs and employment," said the Samajwadi Party chief. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday slammed Samajwadi Party MLAs for disrupting proceedings in the Assembly for the second consecutive day over the Fatehpur incident. The state government informed the House that an FIR had been registered, the accused identified, and strict action assured. Despite this, the Opposition continued to stall business in the House. Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna, Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal, and Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh accused the Opposition of deliberately spreading anarchy for political gain, according to a government release. Khanna said the Leader of the Opposition raised the Fatehpur incident in the House, to which he had responded with a detailed statement. He informed that an FIR had been filed against 10 named and 150 unidentified individuals under serious sections, and action would follow upon completion of the investigation. On Monday, tensions erupted in Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur district when members of Hindu organisations, including Bajrang Dal, gathered near an old tomb in Abu Nagar, claiming it a temple. Some members also entered the tomb and started vandalising it, demanding to offer prayers here. Fatehpur Superintendent of Police said that an FIR was lodged against over 160 miscreants. SP Fatehpur Anoop Kumar Singh stated that an FIR has been lodged, naming 10-12 individuals, with approximately 150 others remaining unidentified. Anopp Kumar Singh said, "An FIR has been lodged in which 10-12 people have been named and around 150 are unidentified. They will be identified through the photography and videography done at the time of the incident and will be arrested... The police force is deployed here, and the situation is peaceful." He further said, "We had deployed the Police force and made preparations. Some people had picked up stones and canes, but there were no weapons. Everyone has left the location. Action will be taken against all those people who took the law into their own hands. We have got information about it (Hindu flags installed on the monument by protestors). There is no flag located there now." In addition to this, the District Magistrate Ravindra Singh said that the situation is under control. He said, "We assured everyone that the law and order situation will not be allowed to be impacted. People have dispersed from here. The law and order situation is normal. Our primary concern is to maintain peace, and the public has confidence in the police. Action would be taken against those who spread rumours." "Both sides were made to understand the facts. They were assured that law and order would be maintained. We have to ensure that there is no spread of rumours. The situation is peaceful," he added. In contrast, some protestors can be seen vandalising the structure with sticks, Bajrang Dal has claimed the structure to be a temple and demands that they be allowed to offer prayers here. Fatehpur District Co-convenor of Bajrang Dal, Dharmendra Singh said, "We will offer prayers here at noon. The Administration will not be able to stop us. In the Hindu religion, no one can take away our right to offer prayers. It is our temple that they are referring to as a tomb. Barricades will also not be able to stop us." (ANI)
FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS)  For many guests, the rides are a highlight of the State Fair of West Virginia.

Mountaineer Mile walking trail at the State Fair of West Virginia announced by Governor Morrisey

Theyre dealing with a lot of heat, a lot of noise, and a lot of responsibility. The ride operators at the state fair have one of the most important jobs at the event.

You may think of them as the guys counting the tickets, but ride operators are responsible for quite a bit. 59News spoke with Slade Baker, who is brand-new on the job and is working the Ferris Wheel this year. For Slade, its all about connecting with the fairgoers.

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The people are great, theyre friendly, theyre very understanding, he said. The kids love it, the adults love it. The high fives keep them coming back. They get a real kick out of it.

Beyond maintaining the line and accepting tickets, ride operators have a responsibility to keep guests safe. This includes making sure rides are fully operational and that everyone aboard is adhering to proper safety protocol.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) They were tourists on a driving tour of the west. They stopped in Albuquerque, then disappeared and were never seen again. Even though the kidnapping and ruthless murder of two middle-aged couples ranks among New Mexicos most infamous unsolved crimes, today, hardly anyone has heard of the case. But go back 90 years to 1935 and you would be hard pressed to find anyone who didnt know the gut-wrenching details of four innocent tourists who ventured into the Land of Enchantment and vanished.

Its our number one unsolved mystery in New Mexico. Four people just vanished from the face of the earth and never again be found without a trace, said Albuquerque author and historian Don Bullis. There has never been anything like it before. I dont think theres been anything like it since. So it was really a big deal.

(George Lorius, his wife Laura, Albert Heberer, and his wife Tillie)

They were George Lorius, his wife Laura, Albert Heberer, and his wife Tillie. George owned a coal company in East St. Louis, Illinois. Albert was a barber in Duquoin, Illinois. Early on a Sunday in May, 90 years ago, the two couples packed up Georges 29 Nash and set out on a leisurely road trip along Route 66 to California.

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On May 21, 1935, the couples checked into the Vaughn Hotel, signing their names on the hotel register.

The next morning, they drove to Albuquerque and dropped off postcards at the downtown post office. On a picture postcard of Starvation Peak (New Mexico), Albert Heberer wrote to his brother in Illinois, everybody o.k. no trouble of any kind. going to Boulder Dam Albert noted his card was written at 11 a.m. A second postcard written by George Lorius was signed with the initials G.M.L. The postcards were postmarked May 22, 1935, 12:30 pm. The four Illinois tourists were never seen or heard from again.

(Postcard written by George Lorius)

(Postcard written by Albert Heberer)

The next morning, six miles south of Socorro, the tourists car was found wrecked on the side of the road. It was being driven by a slender young man, about 21, with long hair, a scar on his cheek, and a tattoo. The vehicle was towed to a Socorro service station where it was repaired. Later that day, the Nash was involved in another accident, this time 44 miles south of Socorro. Mrs. Clyde Cole helped the young man free the 29 Nash from a ditch. Decades later, Mrs. Cole recalled that the driver was nervous and appeared scared.

Police sketch | Courtesy New Mexico State Police Mrs. Clyde Cole | Courtesy of New Mexico State Police

That night, the driver checked into Room 7 at the Buckler Hotel in El Paso, signing the hotel register James Sullivan, East St. Louis. The hotel proprietor said the stranger had considerable baggage, at least 4 pieces.

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After checking out of the Buckler Hotel early on May 24th, the car thief headed east, leaving behind a string of forged Lorius travelers checks in El Paso, Ft. Hancock, Van Horn, Toyah, Pecos, and Midland. That night, he checked into the Tex Hotel in Big Springs, signing the registration card George Lorius. Later that evening, he cashed a $20 travelers check issued to the Illinois tourist at the Sinclair Service Station in Big Springs.

On May 25, he was on the move again, driving east on the main highway. Along the way, he forged more travelers checks at small Texas towns: Colorado, Lorraine, Trant, Abilene, and Cisco. The driver spent the night in Room 802 at the Worth Hotel in Ft. Worth, paying the $3.00 room fee with one of the stolen travelers checks.

Tex Hotel in Big Spring, Texas Sinclair Station in Big Spring, Texas Worth Hotel | Courtesy University of Texas at Arlington

In the morning, the inexperienced driver collided with another vehicle near the Dallas fairgrounds. He paid $5 for the damage using a forged travelers check. Later that morning, he had the Nash washed, greased, and the oil changed at a tire store in Dallas.

Early on the morning of May 27, the stolen sedan was found abandoned near the Marvin Drug Company warehouse in Dallas. The young man who called himself James Sullivan disappeared and was never seen again. Despite decades of federal and state investigations, the suspect has never been identified.

(Gov. Clyde Tingley with the Lorius car)

Alarm bells went off in Illinois. There had been no word from the two couples since the May 22nd postcards mailed from Albuquerque. On June 6 the East St. Louis Police Department wired authorities in Vaughn, New Mexico: ABANDON AUTO OF GEORGE LORIUS EAST ST. LOUIS ILLINOIS FOUND IN DALLAS TEXAS PLANNED TO VISIT YOUR TOWN CHECK HOTELS WITH INFORMATION. JAMES MURPHY CHIEF OF POLICE. Thus began the largest manhunt in New Mexicos history, personally led by Governor Clyde Tingley.

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They searched literally hundreds of miles of roadways and distances on both sides of suspected roadways. They used the National Guard, and they used military personnel. They even had a cavalry unit that came in on horseback, law enforcement historian Don Bullis said.

New Mexico was in shock when these tourists disappeared, New Mexicos State Historian Rob Martinez said. (Governor Tingley) didnt know what to do. He was afraid of the impact it would have on tourism. So the state was reeling and trying to figure out what happened.

Governor Tingley offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to the discovery of the bodies. He was pretty well convinced they had been murdered, Bullis said.

The newly formed New Mexico State Police launched its first criminal investigation. Officially dubbed State Police Case #1, the search for the missing Illinois tourists became front-page news. Every day, sensational details of the investigation were splashed across newspapers and magazines throughout the country. However, investigators had precious few clues: A single bullet found in the stolen Nash. Handwriting from hotel registers and travelers checks. Smudged fingerprints. Eyewitness accounts of a nervous, long-haired young man with a tattoo.

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A month after the disappearance, a cowboy riding remote rangeland on Albuquerques east mesa came upon a grisly discovery. Dumped in an arroyo were the charred remains of personal property belonging to the tourists, including burned clothing and eyeglasses belonging to Laura Lorius.

Early on, the FBI was called in. Search parties scoured remote stretches of the New Mexico outback for clues. Over the course of the investigation, hundreds of suspects were investigated. Amateur detectives from all over the country weighed in with their own theories. Despite a span of 90 years, the remains of George and Laura Lorius and Albert and Tillie Heberer have never been found. In 1938, James Sullivan alias John Doe was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury in Albuquerque for Interstate Transportation of a Stolen Vehicle. The arrest warrant was never served.

The last lead in the missing tourists case dried up decades ago. Today, 90 years later, State Police Case #1 remains unsolved. At the Department of Public Safety in Santa Fe, thousands of pages from the case file have been digitized. However, State Police officials have been unable to locate boxes of original documents or evidence collected in the case.

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(Laura Lorius) was murdered at 54, right beside her husband and her two closest friends. Her life stolen. They were on a vacation and they had no idea that this would happen to them, said Laura Lorius great-grandniece of Amy Ashcraft. It was just devastating to lose them.

Maybe the four of them went to South America and lived happily ever after for the rest of their lives? We dont know, but itll always be with us. Its always a part of New Mexico history, Don Bullis said.

I dont know that well ever find their bodies, State Historian Rob Martinez said. I do know this as a historian. Wherever people have gone, they leave a footprint. They leave a mark. So theres always the hope that theres something out there that will tell us what happened to them, Martinez said.

I want to find them. We would like to pay our family respects. May you now and forevermore rest in peace, said Amy Ashcraft.

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More than one in seven councils have lowered swimming pool temperatures in the past five years, new figures have revealed.

Freedom of Information (FOI) requests by the BBC found 15% of councils had reduced pool temperatures since 2020, with rising energy costs taking most of the blame.

The Local Government Association (LGA) said council finances remained in a "fragile position", with almost a quarter of councils in England reducing or closing leisure services.

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However, critics fear it could put some people off swimming. Tiffany Watson, who used to swim to help her muscular dystrophy, urged councils to reconsider.

Of the 256 councils who responded to BBC FOIs, 39 had lowered pool temperatures in the past five years.

In total, 33 local authorities had permanently lowered the temperature of at least one main or learner pool.

No council lowered the target temperature of their pools by more that one degree, or below the guidelines given by the Pool and Water Treatment Advisory Group, a pool standards body.

These recommend that pools should be 27C to 29C for recreational swimming and adult teaching, and 29C to 31C for children's teaching.

'Please don't do it'

Mrs Watson, 55, who lives in south-west England, has a rare type of muscular dystrophy called central core disease.

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She stopped swimming due to the lower pool temperatures.

"I used to come out and I couldn't get warm," she said.

Central core disease is a genetic condition affecting the muscles, usually leading to weakness in the muscles closest to the centre of the body, such as hips and shoulders.

Swimming is a non-weight-bearing exercise, making it ideal for Mrs Watson. For 10 years, she swam five times a week.

She said: "I can walk in a pool like a normal person. I feel normal in a pool. I look like every other swimmer in there."

Tiffany Watson used to swim to help her muscular dystrophy [BBC]

However, her pool became "far too cold" for her to continue her sessions.

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"Anyone with muscle wasting, they're slower in the water," she said.

"Being slower, you get colder quicker."

She said she told pool staff over a period of months the pool was too cold but was met with "a number of excuses".

Eventually she decided swimming was no longer helping her health, and she had to stop, which she said had contributed to her walking getting worse.

She said she believed the lower pool temperatures were "an easy way to spend less money", and urged councils: "Please don't do it - look at the other options."

More than 30 councils that permanently or temporarily lowered pool temperatures said they did so due to the rise in energy costs following Covid and the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

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Since the start of 2019, the average cost of electricity for non-domestic users has more than doubled, rising from 12.9 p/kWh to 28.39 p/kWh in 2023.

Additionally, five local authorities gave sustainability and net zero targets as a key factor in the decision to lower temperatures.

An LGA spokesperson said "rising energy and operational costs" were forcing councils to reduce or close leisure facilities.

They added that despite "tough spending decisions" faced by the government, more funding was needed to support "essential preventative services which benefit the health of the nation, such as swimming pools".

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A Department of Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said the government was "absolutely committed to building a healthier nation and reducing pressure on our NHS".

They added they were working with the sport and leisure sector as part of a 400m pledge to support grassroots facilities, promote "health, wellbeing and community cohesion" and help "remove the barriers to physical activity for under-represented groups".
By the end of the century, rising sea levels could push powerful seasonal waves into Easter Islands 15 iconic moai statues, according to a new study published in the Journal of Cultural Heritage. About 50 other cultural sites in the area are also at risk from flooding.

Sea level rise is real, said Noah Paoa, lead author of the study and a doctoral student at the University of Hawaii at Manoas School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. Its not a distant threat.

Paoa, who is from Easter Island  known to its Indigenous people as Rapa Nui  and his colleagues built a high-resolution digital twin of the islands eastern coastline and ran computer models to simulate future wave impacts under various sea level rise scenarios. They then overlaid the results with maps of cultural sites to pinpoint which places could be inundated in the coming decades.

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The findings show waves could reach Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial platform on the island, as early as 2080. The site, home to the 15 towering moai, draws tens of thousands of visitors each year and is a cornerstone of the islands tourism economy.

Beyond its economic value, the ahu is deeply woven into Rapa Nuis cultural identity. It lies within Rapa Nui National Park, which encompasses much of the island and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The roughly 900 moai statues across the island were built by the Rapa Nui people between the 10th and 16th centuries to honor important ancestors and chiefs.

The threat isn't unprecedented. In 1960, the largest earthquake ever recorded  a magnitude 9.5 off the coast of Chile  sent a tsunami surging across the Pacific. It struck Rapa Nui and swept the already-toppled moai further inland, which damaged some of their features. The monument was restored in the 1990s.

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While the study focuses on Rapa Nui, its conclusions echo a wider reality: cultural heritage sites worldwide are increasingly endangered by rising seas. A UNESCO report published last month found that about 50 World Heritage sites are highly exposed to coastal flooding.

In an email to The Associated Press, a UNESCO spokesperson said climate change is the biggest threat to UNESCOs World Heritage marine sites. In the Mediterranean and Africa, nearly three-quarters of coastal low-lying sites are now exposed to erosion and flooding due to accelerated sea level rise.

Possible defenses for Ahu Tongariki range from armoring the coastline and building breakwaters to relocating the monuments.

Paoa hopes that the findings will bring these conversations about now, rather than after irreversible damage.

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Its best to look ahead and be proactive instead of reactive to the potential threats, he said.

___

Follow Annika Hammerschlag on Instagram: @ahammergram

___

The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of APs environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
BURLINGTON  Researchers at the University of Vermont have developed a more precise way to assess stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation, a condition that affects 10.5 million Americans and is a leading cause of stroke.

Their findings, published Aug. 6 in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, show that adding simple blood tests to an existing risk calculator can help physicians better determine who truly needs anticoagulant medications  powerful drugs that prevent strokes but can also cause dangerous bleeding. The researchers posted a new improved stroke risk calculator online for physicians easy access.

This could be a game-changer for stroke prevention, said principal investigator Dr. Mary Cushman, University Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine. Were giving physicians a sharper tool to provide a personalized approach to anticoagulation for patients who need it most, while sparing others from unnecessary risk.

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Anticoagulant medications can reduce stroke risk for some people with A-Fib, but some people who take anticoagulants experience a breakthrough stroke anyway, and the medications can cause dangerous side effects related to uncontrolled bleeding.

To estimate a patients stroke risk before prescribing anticoagulants, physicians can use a conventional risk calculator, called the CHA2DS2-VASc score, that considers a patients age, sex, and medical history. The CHA2DS2-VASc score has limited capability, and it does not account for other important risk factors, including heart dysfunction, accelerated blood clotting, and inflammation, which can be assessed with blood tests.

The improved CHA2DS2-VASc-Biomarkers risk calculator accounts for those additional risks factors by adding the blood tests to the calculation. It is based on two studies led by researchers at the Vermont Center for Cardiovascular and Brain Health and the Department of Medicine at the universitys Larner College of Medicine. This research was supported by funding from the U.S. National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

In the first study, the investigators looked at nine blood tests that might predict the occurrence of stroke in 713 people who were taking an anticoagulant to prevent stroke. With a 12-year follow up, 9% of these people developed a breakthrough stroke. The investigators found that three blood test results that identify proteins associated with heart dysfunction, accelerated clotting and inflammation activity were related to the risk of a stroke.

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In the second study, the investigators looked at the same nine blood tests in 2,400 people who were not taking an anticoagulant to prevent stroke. Over 13 years, 7% of them developed a stroke. The investigators discovered that two of the blood tests increased the ability of the CHA2DS2-VASc score to predict a stroke. The researchers used these two blood tests to create a more accurate risk scoring system, called CHA2DS2-VASc-Biomarkers score. This improved scoring system can be used by clinicians to decide which patients with atrial fibrillation might benefit the most from anticoagulant medication.

This will help doctors better select patients for anticoagulation, potentially saving lives and reducing health care costs, said lead author Dr. Samuel Short.

Now a hematology fellow at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Short began this research as a medical student at the Larner College of Medicine, working with Cushman as faculty mentor. They used data from the an ongoing national study, Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke, a cohort study of 30,239 adults monitored for stroke and related diseases.

Short presented an early abstract of this research at the American Heart Associations Epidemiology and Prevention/Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health 2024 Scientific Sessions.

The new CHA2DS2-VASc-Biomarkers risk calculator is available at www.uvm.edu/chadsvascb
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  Riverside Pool is closing out summer with a splash by hosting its annual Pooch Paddle.

Over in Riverside Park, furry friends enjoyed a refreshing dip in the pool. Monday featured small dogs, but Tuesday is all about the larger breeds.

Those who run Riverside Pool closed out summer with their yearly Pooch paddle. Yesterday featured small dogs, but today is all about the larger breeds. The event happens after the pools close to the public for the rest of the year. Some of the lifeguards told KCAU 9 about the dogs having fun in the water.

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I just love seeing like all the different types of dogs and how the dogs like swim around and everything, said lifeguard Breckin Sharp.

Lifeguard Jamisyn Jund said, They were having a blast. One of them just dove right in. Hes never been swimming before, and he just full all-in for it.

All proceeds benefit the Lewis and Clark Dog Park in Bacon Creek.

If you have a large dog that wants to relax in the pool, there is still time. The event runs until 7 p.m. on Tuesday evening. The cost is $5 per dog.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
ROANOKE Va. (WFXR)- Police in Roanoke are looking for a suspect accused of armed robbery at a bank in the 100 block of McClanahan Street SW.

The suspect was last seen running from the scene. He is described as 57 in height, wearing a gray hoodie, blue face mask, white button down shirt, and blue jeans, according to police.

The alleged robbery happened at 10:11 a.m., Wednesday, August 13.

Fatal shooting reported in Martinsville, officers responded to large disturbance

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Surveillance cameras captured him and can be seen in the photos below:

Photo courtesy of RPD

Photo courtesy of RPD

No further details are known. Stay with WFXR for the latest on this developing story.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
It's been on display in a family museum since the 1930s.

But this rare boxwood flute hasn't been played in almost 200 years.

The last person to do so was likely its owner, James Glencairn Burns, son of Robert Burns, a talented musician and a passionate advocate for his father's legacy.

But thanks to a grant from the Pilgrim Trust and the Association of Independent Museums, the flute has been restored and is helping raise money for the wider restoration of Ellisland Museum and Farm near Dumfries.

The flute was stored in a family home and exposed to the peat and timber which was burned in the fire, so it needed to be cleaned [BBC]

Ellisland was the home Burns built for his family, and where he composed over 130 poems and songs including Auld Lang Syne.

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"It's the only instrument that we have in our collection, " says Joan McAlpine, director of the campaign to preserve the Ellisland site.

"It's a boxwood flute dating from the very early 19th century and we know it belonged to his son who was an accomplished flautist and often performed his father's songs."

"So as part of the restoration we took a decision that we wanted it to be restored to a playable condition so that the music that Burns created at Ellisland and passed down to his son could be passed to audiences worldwide who we hope will help us save Ellisland."

Joan McAlpine, director of the campaign to preserve the Ellisland site, said the flute was played by Burns' son - an accomplished flautist [BBC]

Restoration began two years ago first by Edinburgh-based conservator Lydia Messerschmidt of Phoenix Conservation, then by early flute expert Robert Biglio in london.

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Adam Dickson, curator at the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust said the restoration was complicated because the flute had been stored in the living room of a family home, which had still been in use until 2019.

"The previous curator lived in the house, as well as looking after the museum. It was exposed to the peat and timber which was burned in the fire so it needed to be thoroughly cleaned up."

Flautist Claire Mann had the task of gently reawakening the instrument by playing it for short bursts of time in the "Spence", the room in Ellisland in which it had been stored, and where Burns composed many of his songs between 1788 and 1791.

Adam Dickson, curator at the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust said the restoration was complicated [BBC]

And then came the moment of truth when the flute was played for the first time in 150 years at a private performance in Edinburgh.

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Along with vocalist Robyn Stapleton and harpist Wendy Stewart, she played a number of Burns works from the Ellisland songbook including Auld Lang Syne, Ye Banks and Braes, and John Anderson, My Jo, all written at the farm which Burns described as "sweet poetic ground".

"I mean, with any old instrument you think to yourself, who played this and what kind of music did they play?" says Claire.

"So for it to be associated with Burns and his family is really special.

Maybe he played the melody of old Lang Syne on the flute so I guess to play an instrument in his footsteps is very special."

Claire Mann is the only musician allowed to play the priceless historic instrument [BBC]

Claire is the only musician with permission to play the historic instrument and the plan is to take the flute on tour as part of a wider fundraising campaign called Saving The Home of Auld Lang Syne which will be launched later this year.

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It already has support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, South of Scotland Enterprise, Museums Galleries Scotland and the Holywood Trust and has a further seven million pounds to raise.

"When he lived at Ellisland, Burns focused especially on song, collecting and composing for the Scots Musical Museum," says curator Adam Dickson.

"Our goal is to make Ellisland a creative hub once more while preserving the buildings, which are currently at risk."

This is a very special artefact and to be able to hear it being played again, and playing the music that was created for it. It's a very special moment."

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Roblox has been hit with another lawsuit alleging it caused the sexual exploitation of a child.

The lawsuit alleges a 9-year-old boy was "targeted" by adult predators posing as kids.

The massively popular online gaming giant has faced a string of similar lawsuits this year.

Roblox has been slammed as a "hunting ground for child-sex predators" in a new lawsuit against the online gaming giant that alleges it caused the sexual exploitation of a 9-year-old boy.

The lawsuit, filed last week in a Georgia state court by an anonymous DeKalb County mother and her young son, accuses Roblox of negligence as well as prioritizing growth over child safety.

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It follows a recent wave of similar lawsuits lodged against the $90 billion company that accuse the popular gaming platform of not doing enough to safeguard children from pedophiles.

In a statement to Business Insider on Tuesday, a Roblox spokesperson said, "We are deeply troubled by any incident that endangers our users, and safety is a top priority."

"We dedicate substantial resources, including advanced technology and 24/7 human moderation, to help detect and prevent inappropriate content and behavior, including attempts to direct users off platform, where safety standards and moderation may be less stringent than ours," the spokesperson said.

The latest lawsuit alleges that these predators harassed the boy for months and ultimately "extorted" him to send sexually explicit images and videos to his friends at school.

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As a result, the boy has "suffered devastating and life-altering psychological trauma" and was eventually required to change schools, the lawsuit says.

"Had Defendant implemented even the most basic system of age and identity verification, as well as effective parental controls, Plaintiff would never have engaged with this predator and never been harmed," the lawsuit says.

In July, Roblox announced a new age verification system, which includes an age estimation tool based on a selfie-style video, for users who want to chat back-and-forth with so-called "trusted connections." "If the system estimates that a user is actually under 13, then we will automatically correct the user's age to under 13 and remove access to features that are not appropriate," Roblox says on its website.

The Georgia mother's attorney, Matthew Dolman of the Florida-based firm Dolman Law Group, told Business Insider that he expects even more lawsuits to be filed in the near future and that his firm is currently investigating over 300 incidents on behalf of prospective claimants.

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"Roblox has materially misrepresented that its product is safe on multiple occasions knowing full well that law enforcement investigations resulting in arrests of sexual predators are occurring nationwide," Dolman said.

Nearly 40% of Roblox's user base is under 13

Roblox hosts millions of user-generated games. Roblox

Roblox, a top gaming platform among children and teens, hosts millions of user-generated games called "experiences" that range from racing to horror-themed.

The Georgia lawsuit, which seeks a jury trial and an unspecified amount in monetary damages, says that Roblox hosts a "staggering number" of games centered on simulated sexual activity.

The court documents also cited some games with titles like "Survive Diddy" and "Escape to Epstein Island" in reference to hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, who was recently convicted of two prostitution-related federal charges, and late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

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When Roblox announced its latest earnings in July, the company reported an average of 111.8 million daily active users with a user base of nearly 40% under the age of 13.

The latest lawsuit  which includes identical pages of allegations cited in separate, but similar lawsuits against Roblox  said the Georgia boy is just "one of countless children whose lives have been devastated" thanks to Roblox's "gross negligence and defectively designed app."

The Roblox spokesperson told Business Insider: "While no system is perfect, Roblox has implemented rigorous safeguards, including restrictions on sharing personal information, links, and user-to-user image sharing, and prohibiting sexual conversations."

"We also partner with law enforcement and leading child safety organizations worldwide to combat the sexual exploitation of children," the spokesperson said.

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Roblox recently deployed an open-source AI-powered system called Sentinel that it says was designed to help detect any early indicators of child endangerment interactions.

The AI system, the company said, helped it submit about 1,200 reports of potential attempts at child exploitation to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in the first half of the year.

The Roblox Logo. Roblox

Several lawsuits against Roblox allege the sexual exploitation of children

Roblox has faced at least eight more lawsuits this year alleging the sexual exploitation of children. Three of those were filed by Dolman's firm, while the others were filed by the Pennsylvania-based personal injury law firm, Anapol Weiss.

The lawsuits come after an October 2024 report by the prominent short-seller Hindenburg Research accused Roblox of being an "X-rated pedophile hellscape" and "exposing children to grooming, pornography, violent content and extremely abusive speech."

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The group-chatting platform Discord has been named as a codefendant in some of those other lawsuits.

A Discord spokesperson told Business Insider that the company does not comment on ongoing litigation, but said, "Any content or behavior that endangers younger users is not allowed on Discord."

"Discord is deeply committed to safety and we require all users to be at least 13 to use our platform," the spokesperson said. "Using a range of technological and human moderation approaches, we work hard to proactively detect and remove content that violates our policies, report violations to NCMEC, and maintain robust systems to prevent sexual exploitation and grooming."

One lawsuit filed last month in a California federal court alleges that a 14-year-old girl was groomed on Roblox by an adult predator masquerading as another teen. The complaint says the conversation between them moved over to Discord where the man repeatedly sent sexually explicit messages and photographs.

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The lawsuit says the man eventually lured the Alabama girl from her home and attempted to sexually assault her. Police intervened and the man was arrested, the lawsuit says.

Read the original article on Business Insider
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  The Rochester City Ballet (RCB) has just announced today that it will be opening its own ballet school, called The School of Rochester City Ballet, on September 8th.

All dancers, regardless of age, are encouraged to register for fall classes now through September 8th.

One of our main missions has always been to make ballet accessible and inclusive, said John

Deming, director at The School of RCB. Whether youre taking your first steps in ballet or

striving for a professional career, our school is going to provide a safe and encouraging space

for you to grow.

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It will provide training to prepare students for professional dance careers, as well as offer opportunities to be in dance productions alongside RCBs professionals.

The School of RCB claims the title of Rochesters only ballet school whose entire faculty are current professional dancers themselves.

Well be offering unparalleled instruction, said Deming.

Visit the School of RCBs website to register or learn more.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao launched a scathing attack on Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi following his repeated allegations against the Election Commission, saying that he is doing "drama." Speaking to ANI, N Ramchander Rao said, "Rahul Gandhi is doing drama, along with INDI Alliance...I think this is absurd. Let him come to Hyderabad, Telangana, where his government is ruling. Go to Old City where their partner AIMIM has got hundreds of bogus votes that have to be weeded out. There are many voters who have multiple ID cards." "In fact, Rahul Gandhi should first inquire how the bogus voters are being multiplied in Hyderabad with the help of the present Congress Govt and earlier BRS Govt," he added. A day earlier, Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi sharply criticised the Election Commission of India, alleging it has failed to enforce the principle of "One Man, One Vote," which he described as the foundation of the Constitution. Gandhi further accused the Election Commission of neglecting its duty, asserting that the Congress party is committed to protecting the Constitution and will continue to do. "We are protecting the Constitution. One Man One Vote is the foundation of the Constitution. It is the duty of the Election Commission to enforce One Man, One Vote, but they have not done their duty. We are protecting the Constitution, and we will keep doing it..." Meanwhile, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge joined fellow INDIA bloc members in staging a protest in Parliament over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue. Several Opposition MPs arrived wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan '124 Not Out'. (ANI)
Romania's President Nicusor Dan has said that he has accepted an invitation from his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and will visit Kyiv this autumn.

Source: Dan on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "I accepted President Volodymyr Zelenskyys invitation to pay a visit to Kyiv this autumn."

Details: Dan emphasised the need for lasting peace in Ukraine and for an end to Russias daily attacks.

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He also noted that Romania supports the efforts of US President Donald Trump to achieve a ceasefire, and that peace must be reached at the negotiating table with Ukraine.

Quote: "An agreement must be just, long-lasting and sustainable. Romania supports the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. As neighbour and partner, Romania will continue to stand with Ukraine in all efforts to reach a just peace for the people of Ukraine."

Background:

Earlier, Zelenskyy shared details of his latest conversation with Dan.

In late July, Dan stated that his country would support Ukraine, particularly in the military sphere, but the transfer of Patriot air defence missile systems had not yet been discussed.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW)  A bridge closure originally scheduled on Monday, Aug. 18, has been delayed.

The Buchanan County Route AC bridge over U.S. Route 36 in St. Joseph is now scheduled to close on Monday, Sept. 8, and will remain closed around the clock until Thursday, Sept. 11.

Road crews from the Missouri Department of Transportation will be repairing the bridge deck.

Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure.

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A project to replace the bridge is currently scheduled for 2027 in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Project (STIP).

More information on the closure can be found by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
While this was "in the works," Marco Rubio noted challenges in the process, such as having to designate each branch of the Muslim brotherhood individually.

The US federal government is in the process of designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an interview on Tuesday.

In response to a question about designating The Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as terrorist organizations, Rubio said that all of those things that were just discussed were in the process.

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We are constantly reviewing for groups to designate for what they are: supporters of terrorists, maybe terrorists themselves, whatever it may be. We havent done this in a long time, so its  weve got a lot of catch-up to do. And youve mentioned a couple names, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, that are of grave concern, Rubio said on Sid and Friends in the Morning, according to a US State Department transcript.

While this was in the works, Rubio noted challenges in the process, such as having to designate each branch of the Muslim Brotherhood individually.

Rubio said that before entering into his role as secretary of state, he didnt appreciate the legal and bureaucratic process involved in such matters. Terrorist designations could be challenged in court, and there was an internal procedure for documenting and justifying the decision.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks to the media during a refueling stop at Shannon Airport in Shannon, Ireland, March 12, 2025, as he travels from talks with Ukraine in Saudi Arabia to attending a G7 Foreign Ministers meeting in Canada. (credit: SAUL LOEB/POOL VIA REUTERS)

All you need is one federal judge  and there are plenty  that are willing to do these nationwide injunctions and basically try to run the country from the bench, said Rubio. So weve got to be so careful.

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CAIR did not immediately respond to The Jerusalem Posts request for comment about Rubios statements.

Multiple attempts to designate Muslim Brotherhood a terror organization

Designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization is not a new proposal among Republican elements, with two bills introduced to implement the idea.

Republican senators Ted Cruz, Tom Cotton, John Boozman, Rick Scott, Ashley Moody, and Dave McCormick on July 16 introduced the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act of 2025 in response to its ties to Hamas.

The Muslim Brotherhood is a terrorist organization, and it provides support to Muslim Brotherhood branches that are terrorist organizations. One of those branches is Hamas, which on October 7 committed the worst single-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, which included the murder and kidnapping of at least 53 Americans, Cruz explained in a press release.

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They are committed to the overthrow and destruction of America and other non-Islamist governments across the world and pose an acute threat to American national security interests. American allies in the Middle East and Europe have already labeled the Brotherhood a terrorist organization, and the United States should do the same, and do so expeditiously.

The companion congressional bill was introduced the same day with bipartisan sponsorship by Democrat congresspeople Jared Moskowitz, Tom Suozzi, and Josh Gottheimer and Republicans Mario Diaz-Balart, Randy Fine, Chuck Fleischmann, John H. Rutherford, Mike Bost, and Andy Barr.

The Muslim Brotherhood has a documented history of promoting terrorism against the United States, our allies, and our society, Moskowitz said in a July statement.

Countries such as Bahrain, Egypt, Austria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and France have already taken important steps to investigate and crack down on the Muslim Brotherhood and its affiliates.
Its bad enough that climate change is ruining the dream of a white Christmas for many people, as warming makes snow in some regions less likely.

Now, apparently, its coming for reindeer, too.

Reindeer arent just creatures of Christmas myth but real animals  a kind of deer that live in the Arctic, from northern Europe and Russia to North America, where theyre commonly known as caribou. These animals are remarkably adapted to cold weather, sporting thick fur, a snout that warms the air they take in, and uniquely structured hooves that help them shovel snow to find food, such as lichen. But theyve also survived bouts of Arctic warming that occurred thousands of years ago, thanks to their ability to travel long distances in search of colder habitats.

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These adaptations are, however, no match for modern climate change. The Arctic is warming quickly from a higher baseline temperature compared to natural fluctuations in the distant past.

A reindeer runs in the snow in the Murmansk Region of Russia.

| Pavel Lvov/Sputnik via AP | Pavel Lvov/Sputnik via AP

Over the last few decades, wild Arctic reindeer populations have declined by about two-thirds, from 5.5 million to around 1.9 million, largely due to warming, according to previous research. Rising temperatures can affect reindeer health directly  causing the animals to overheat and get sick  and indirectly by limiting their supply of food.

Now, its clear those declines will likely continue. A new study in the journal Science Advances found that if the world doesnt quickly rein in greenhouse gas emissions, the global wild reindeer population, including caribou, could plummet by nearly 60 percent by the end of the century. Those declines will be far more severe in North America, where they could exceed 80 percent, according to the studys models, which reconstructed 21,000 years of reindeer population data using fossil records, DNA, and other data sources. Thats because North America is expected to lose more habitat that can support reindeer to warming than elsewhere, said Damien Fordham, a study author and researcher at the University of Adelaide.

Even under a more modest emissions scenario  in which countries cut back what they spew into the atmosphere  the study projects steep population declines. You can see these results in the chart below, which shows projected declines based on a high and moderate emissions scenario, respectively.

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These results are absolutely concerning, said Jennifer Watts, Arctic program director at the Woodwell Climate Research Center, a nonprofit research organization, who was not involved in the new study. Given how quickly and severely the Arctic is warming at present, the results from this study are not overly surprising, and should serve as yet another wake-up call for humans to curtail anthropogenic drivers of climate warming.

The study offers yet another example of how climate change is threatening biodiversity and how those threats in turn affect humans. Reindeer are not only a critical food source for some Arctic Indigenous communities  like Alaskan Natives and the Inuit people of North America  but also a cornerstone of their culture, similar to salmon or wolves for some tribal nations in other parts of the US. If major polluting nations, like the US, China, and India dont curtail their emissions, it could further endanger the food sovereignty of those communities.

Beyond their direct impact on human well-being, reindeer also shape the tundra ecosystems  quite literally making them what they are  by limiting the growth of trees and shrubs, spreading seeds, and fertilizing the soil.

We should care about the fate of reindeer and caribou with the same concern we give to the fate of polar bears and other Arctic animals, Watts told Vox. The well-being of entire ecosystems and humans living across the Arctic depend on their survival.
Darryl Chavis, 62, served in the U.S. Army for two years as a watercraft operator. He stands outside the Borden Avenue Veterans Residence, a short-term housing facility in the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens, N.Y., where he lives. Chavis relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and is worried about new work requirements for the program, commonly known as food stamps. (Photo by Shalina Chatlani/Stateline)

NEW YORK  After a year in the U.S. Navy, Loceny Kamara said he was discharged in 2023, because while on base he had developed mental health issues, including severe anxiety and nightmares, and had fallen into alcoholism.

Kamara, 23, went to rehab and managed to get sober for some time while living with family in the Bronx, he said. But after he lost his job as a security guard in December, Kamara was kicked out of his home. Now he lives at a veterans homeless shelter in Long Island City, New York, and he relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps, and odd jobs to make ends meet.

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Each month, nearly 42 million people receive SNAP benefits to help supplement their grocery budgets. Able-bodied SNAP recipients who are between 18 and 54 and dont have children have always been required to work. Veterans, however, have been exempt from those rules  but thats about to change.

The giant domestic policy measure that President Donald Trump signed on July 4 eliminates that exemption. Beginning in 2026, veterans will have to prove they are working, volunteering, participating in job training, or looking for work for at least 80 hours a month to keep their food stamps beyond three months, unless they qualify for another exemption, such as having certain disabilities.

Republicans in Congress and conservatives who helped formulate the law say these eligibility changes are necessary to stop people who could be working from abusing the system. But critics say the change fails to take into account the barriers many veterans face, and that the new work rules will cause thousands of veterans to go hungry.

Im pissed. I mean, I cannot get a job. Nowhere to live, said Kamara. As he spoke, Kamara pointed to his collared shirt, noting that he had just dressed up to interview for a job as a security guard. He learned that morning he hadnt gotten the job.

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Ive been out of work for eight months, Kamara told Stateline. Its hard to get a job right now for everybody.

Loceny Kamara, 27, was discharged from the U.S. Navy after serving for a year. In December, Kamara was kicked out of his home. Now he lives at the Borden Avenue Veterans Residence and relies on food stamps and odd jobs to make ends meet. (Photo by Shalina Chatlani/Stateline)

Nationally, around 1.2 million veterans with lower incomes, or about 8% of the total veteran population of 16.2 million, rely on food stamps for themselves and their families, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a left-leaning research group.

An analysis by the group found veterans tend to have lower rates of employment because they are more likely to have health conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, that make it difficult for them to work. They also tend to have less formal education, though many have specialized skills from their time in the military.

There has been a work requirement for most SNAP recipients since 1996. But Robert Rector, a senior research fellow at The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, said the rules have never really been enforced. Rector argued that able-bodied people who have been exempt from the work requirement, such as veterans and homeless people, create an unnecessary burden on the system if they are capable of working but dont.

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Most of the people that are in this category live in households with other people that have incomes, and so there really isnt a chronic food shortage here, Rector said in an interview. We have tens of thousands of free food banks that people can go to. So its just a requirement to nudge these people in the proper direction, and it should no longer go unenforced.

Darryl Chavis, 62, said that view ignores the difficulties that many veterans face. When Chavis left the U.S. Army at 21 after two years of service, he said, he was severely depressed.

Nobody even came to help me, said Chavis, who served as a watercraft operator, responsible for operating and maintaining tugboats, barges and other landing craft.

Chavis said he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, which has made it difficult for him to keep a job. He just moved back to New York from Virginia after leaving a relationship. Hes been at the housing shelter in Long Island City since January.

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What Im trying to do is get settled in to, you know, stabilize into an apartment. I have the credentials to get a job. So its not like Im not gonna look for a job. I have to work. Im in transition, and the obstacles dont make it easy, Chavis said.

The new SNAP work rules apply to all able-bodied adults between 55 and 64 who dont have dependents, and parents with children above the age of 14. Some groups, such as asylum-seekers and refugees, are no longer eligible for the program.

Barbara Guinn, commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, estimates that around 300,000 New Yorkers could lose SNAP benefits due to work requirements. Of those, around 22,000 are veterans, homeless or aging out of foster care, she said. Almost 3 million New Yorkers relied on SNAP as of March 2025.

Veterans in other states are in a similar situation. In California, an estimated 115,000 veterans receive SNAP benefits, according to a study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The number is nearly 100,000 in Florida and Texas, and 49,000 in Georgia.

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Between 2015 and 2019 about 11% of veterans between the ages of 18 and 64 lived in food insecure households, meaning they had limited or uncertain access to food, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP.

We know that SNAP is the best way to help address hunger. It gets benefits directly to individuals, Guinn said. There are other ways that people can get assistance if they need it, through food banks or other charitable organizations, but we do not think that those organizations will have the capacity to pick up the needs.

A greater burden on states

In addition to the work rule changes, the new law reduces federal funding for SNAP by about $186 billion through 2034  a cut of roughly 20%, according to the Congressional Budget Office, an independent research arm of Congress. The federal government expects the new work requirements to reduce SNAP spending by $69 billion as people who dont comply are dropped from the rolls.

SNAP has historically been funded by the federal government, with states picking up part of the cost of administering the program. Under the new law, states will have to cover between 5% and 15% of SNAP costs starting in fiscal year 2028, depending on how accurately they distribute benefits to people who are eligible for the program.

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This has been a strategic agenda to dismantle SNAP and to blame states for doing so.

 Gina Plata-Nino, SNAP deputy director at the Food Research & Action Center

This has been a strategic agenda to dismantle SNAP and to blame states for doing so, because they knew they are making it so incredibly burdensome to run and operate and unaffordable, said Gina Plata-Nino, SNAP deputy director at the Food Research & Action Center, a poverty and hunger advocacy group.

States are going to have to cut something, because theres no surplus. There are no unlimited resources that states may have in order to be able to offset the harm.

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SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Guinn said New York expects to see a new cost burden of at least $1.4 billion each year. In California, new state costs could total as much as $3.7 billion annually, according to the California Department of Social Services.

Kaitlynne Yancy, director of membership programs at Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, said many veterans with disabilities will not be able to fulfill the work requirements or find resources elsewhere. And its unclear whether states will be able to provide their own relief to people who are no longer exempted from work requirements or will be excluded from the program.

It is a frustrating thing to see, especially for those that have been willing to put everything on the line and sacrifice everything for this country if their country called them to do so, she said.

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Yancy, 35, served in the U.S. Navy from 2010 to 2014. She began to use food stamps and the Medicaid program, the public health insurance program for people with lower incomes, as she navigated lifes challenges. They included going back to school to pursue her bachelors degree, becoming a single mother, and a leukemia diagnosis for one of her children. Frequent trips to the hospital made it hard for her to work steadily or attend school for 20 hours each week, she said.

Guinn said the new rules will create significant administrative challenges, too; even SNAP recipients who are working will struggle to prove it.

Maybe theyre working one month, they have a job, and then their employer cuts their hours the next month, Guinn told Stateline. There are mechanisms for people to upload documentation as needed to demonstrate compliance with the program, but from an administrative standpoint, right now, we dont have any super-high-tech automated way of doing this.

Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org.

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The small town of Mason, Tenn., has approved plans to turn a former prison into a migrant detention facility.

CoreCivic, a private company, is set to operate the site following the approval of its contract, the Associated Press reported. The facility, which is now slated for conversion into a migrant detention center, was shuttered in 2021 after then-President Joe Biden ordered the Justice Department to halt the renewal of contracts with private detention facilities.

On Jan. 20, President Donald Trump rescinded Bidens order.

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New Jersey's Ban On Privately Operated Ice Detention Centers Struck Down By Court

The Tuesday night meeting was attended by dozens of protesters and the scene frequently devolved into shouting matches, according to Fox 13 Memphis. Mason Vice Mayor Reynaldo Givhan told the outlet that while he voted in favor of CoreCivic, he "really had to do some soul searching" and ultimately decided to abstain from the second vote, which concerned ICEs contract.

Census data shows that Mason has a population of just 1,337 and has a median household income of just over $47,000.

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Mason Mayor Eddie Noeman told Action News 5, an NBC affiliate, that the town saw this as a business opportunity and that it has "nothing to do with" anything going on inside the facility. The mayor, who is an Egyptian-American immigrant, also said that he is "looking for the best interest of the town," which in his view is to bring back jobs.

Trump Says Only Way Out Of Alligator Alcatraz Is Deportation

However, some of the townspeoples ire may be because CoreCivic has faced $44.7 million in fines across multiple prisons, with the latest case happening in February, but it has had problems since 2022, including understaffing violations, the Associated Press reported. The outlet said it had reviewed documents showing that the company spent over $4.4 million to settle 80 lawsuits and out-of-court complaints about mistreatment, which included at least 22 inmate deaths.

As the Trump administration pushes to deport illegal immigrants, some states have moved to partner with the federal government to expand ICE detention facilities. This includes Floridas Alligator Alcatraz, which recently hit a roadblock after a federal judge blocked construction at the facility. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has vowed to fight back.

An ICE agent monitors hundreds of asylum seekers being processed upon entering the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building on June 6, 2023, in New York City.

On Aug. 5, ICE announced its second state partnership, this time with Indiana, which will use part of the Miami Correctional Center for the "Speedway Slammer," which will house migrants.

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"Thanks to Governor Braun for his partnership to help remove the worst of the worst out of our country. If you are in America illegally, you could find yourself in Indianas Speedway Slammer. Avoid arrest and self deport now using the CBP Home App," DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement.

Fox News Digital reached out to CoreCivic but did not receive a response in time for publication.





Original article source: Rural town to turn closed prison into ICE detention facility despite resident pushback
Russia plans to produce 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR), said in an Aug. 12 interview with Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne.

Shahed-type drones, originally designed in Iran, have become a key element of Moscow's long-range strike arsenal against Ukraine, frequently used to target cities, infrastructure, and energy facilities.

Skibitskyi said Russia is expanding its manufacturing capacity, opening new production lines, and working to replace imported parts with domestically made components for assembling the drones.

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"Today, the glider is theirs, and the internal combustion engine they install is also theirs. The navigation system, with the exception of chips and microelectronics, is Russian-made," he said.

The Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan hosts a major Shahed assembly plant. Ukrainian forces have targeted the site twice in recent days, most recently on Aug. 12, after a similar strike on Aug. 9.

Skibitskyi said drone attacks are a part of an effort to prevent Russia from meeting its production goals.

"Our task here is to prevent this from happening, to prevent such an increase. And, if possible, to destroy the production facilities themselves," Skibitskyi added.

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The warning comes amid a surge in Russian drone use. Ukraine's Air Force recorded 6,129 Shahed-type drones launched in July, a new monthly record, surpassing June's 5,337, compared to just 423 in July 2024, a more than fourteen-fold increase.

The escalation has fueled fears that Moscow's growing stockpile could enable sustained, high-intensity bombardments against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

Read also: Zelensky arrives in Berlin to meet German chancellor ahead of call with Trump, European leaders

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The upcoming Zapad-2025 military drills will involve practice planning for the deployment of nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik missile system, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said on Aug. 13, according to the state news agency Belta.

"The head of state demands that we must be ready for all possible scenarios," Khrenin said during a press conference following a closed-door meeting with Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko.

The Russian-Belarusian military drills, expected to be held in mid-September, are among the most extensive exercises held by the two countries' militaries. While the Belarusian Defense Ministry has confirmed "over 13,000 participants," NATO estimates suggest that the drills may involve as many as 150,000 troops.

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Belarus has been a key ally to Moscow and has previously been reported as hosting Russian tactical nuclear arms on its territory, after the two countries signed an agreement in May 2023.

Moscow has repeatedly issued veiled or overt threats of nuclear use against Ukraine and its allies during the full-scale war.

Ukrainian intelligence chief Oleh Ivashchenko claimed that Belarus fields only nuclear delivery systems but no warheads. He also dismissed Lukashenko's claims that the Belarusian military would acquire the Oreshnik system by the end of the year.

Russia first unveiled its experimental Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) after using it to strike the Ukrainian city of Dnipro in November 2024. While the Kremlin claimed the weapon had entered mass production, there has been no further confirmed case of its use.

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"Naturally, as part of the Zapad exercise, we will conduct joint drills with our Russian colleagues for the planning of the deployment of this weapons system," Khrenin said about Oreshnik, according to Belta.

Kyiv and NATO have expressed concern that Zapad-2025 could be used as cover for renewed aggression, as Russia continues its war against Ukraine while Belarus remains a potential staging ground.

The first Russian echelons began pouring into the country earlier in August, with the Ukrainian border guard reporting an arrival of hundreds of Russian troops.

Warsaw warned that its forces would respond by holding military exercises with its NATO allies, while Lithuania launched its own exercise earlier in August.

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"We are closely monitoring the situation along our western and northern borders and cannot remain passive observers of ongoing militarization and military activity," Khrenin said.

The Belarusian defense chief accused NATO of using the Zapad drills as a pretext for its own exercises, warning that Belarus "has the means to retaliate" to any sign of aggression.

Following the Zapad-2021 drills, Belarus and Russia conducted the "Union Resolve-2022" exercise, which directly preceded and facilitated the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian troops who remained in Belarus after the drills joined the assault from Belarusian territory on Feb. 24, 2022.

Read also: Russias hybrid empire

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russia is reaching 105-110% of its monthly military requirements, Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR), said in an Aug. 12 interview with Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne.

The Kremlin planned to enlist 343,000 people in 2025 and has already fulfilled over 60% of that goal. Skibitskyi added that Moscow intends to raise the target by at least 15-17%.

"One of the strengths of the Russian armed forces is that they have operational reserves," he said. "They use them to rotate troops and reinforce the most critical areas of the front line."

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While avoiding another large-scale draft since the unpopular 2022 partial mobilization, Moscow has leaned on lucrative contracts and extensive recruitment campaigns, offering large signing bonuses and a generous social package.

According to Skibitskyi, the signing bonuses for contracts with the Russian Defense Ministry vary widely by region, with the highest payouts offered in Moscow and Leningrad oblasts.

The current recruitment pace, 30,000 to 40,000 people monthly, according to U.S. and EU intelligence cited by the Wall Street Journal, is sufficient to offset Russia's front-line losses, which NATO estimates at roughly 1,000 troops per day.

Russian military leaders are reportedly pressing for a broader draft despite the Kremlin's reluctance. In January, State Duma Defense Committee Deputy Chair Alexei Zhuravlev said a larger mobilization may be necessary to prepare for a possible conflict with the West.

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In March, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the spring conscription of 160,000 men, the largest such call-up in 14 years, with many conscripts drawn into the war indirectly despite an official ban on their deployment to the front.

Read also: Russia aims to build 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Ukraines military intelligence says

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Russia has lost 890 soldiers killed and wounded over the past day alone, bringing its total number of personnel losses to 1,066,110.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russian forces between 24 February 2022 and 13 August 2025 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses  ed.]:

approximately 1,066,110 (+890) military personnel;

11,099 (+1) tanks;

23,127 (+8) armoured combat vehicles;

31,429 (+23) artillery systems;

1,465 (+1) multiple-launch rocket systems;

1,207 (+2) air defence systems;

421 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft;

340 (+0) helicopters;

50,852 (+99) operational-tactical UAVs;

3,558 (+2) cruise missiles;

28 (+0) ships/boats;

1 (+0) submarine;

58,265 (+46) vehicles and fuel tankers;

3,937 (+0) special vehicles and other equipment.

The information is being confirmed.

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Ahead of Independence Day, Bhaderwah valley on Wednesday saw a vibrant Tiranga Rally organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police, with SDPO Bhaderwah leading police, students, and locals, waving a 100-meter national flag, spreading patriotism and unity. Speaking on the occasion, SDPO Bhaderwah Shoket Ali said, "Like in other parts of the country, Bhaderwah also witnessed a grand Tiranga Rally today to send out a strong message of patriotism and national pride." He added that the event aimed to strengthen the spirit of unity and remind the youth of the sacrifices made for India's freedom. The rally began from the New Bus Stand Kotli, wove through key streets, and culminated at the historic Seri Bazaar. A spectacular highlight was the display of a 100-meter-long national flag that evoked loud cheers and applause from the crowd. Enthusiasts lined the route, waving flags and chanting slogans such as "Tiranga Hamare Jaan Hai, Tiranga Hamare Shaan Hai." Speaking to ANI, NCC cadet Akshay said, "It was a proud moment to walk with such a huge Tiranga. This will always stay in my memory." As the rally ended, Bhaderwah echoed with chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai," setting an inspiring tone for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations. On August 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness over the "phenomenal" participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, saying it reflects the deep patriotic spirit that unites the people of India and their pride in the Tricolour. He also urged citizens to continue sharing their photos and selfies on harghartiranga.com. Responding to the Ministry of Culture's posts about the high participation, the Prime Minister said, "Glad to see #HarGharTiranga receiving phenomenal participation across India. This shows the deep patriotic spirit that unites our people and their unwavering pride in the Tricolour. Do keep sharing photos and selfies on harghartiranga.com." In an X post, the Ministry of Culture wrote, "We are elated to see the enthusiasm surrounding the #HarGharTiranga campaign. From Kashmir to Lakshadweep and from Gujarat to Sikkim, the heartwarming images of people proudly hoisting the Tricolour show the deep connection that every Indian has with the National Flag." According to the Ministry of Culture, this year the campaign will run from August 2 to August 15, with the government urging citizens to hoist the Tricolour at their homes. (ANI)
Russian troops made a sudden breach in eastern Ukraine, in what analysts say is an attempt to pressure Kyiv into giving up land, days before crucial talks between Washington and Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Kyiv wouldnt give up the eastern Donbas region, amid concerns about how much US President Donald Trump might concede to Russian President Vladimir Putins maximalist demands when the two meet in Alaska on Friday.

Experts believe that Trump, who is determined to end the war, might be walking into a trap that the Russian leader is setting on American soil, The Atlantic wrote. The summit could play right into the hands of Putin, who is a master manipulator, The New York Times argued.
President Donald Trump recently renewed calls for a territorial land swap between Russia and Ukraine  a geopolitical maneuver that, if pursued, could grant Moscow control over some of Ukraines most strategic and resource-rich regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected any proposal that would allow Russia to retain control of its occupied territory in the war-weary country.

Zelenskyy Wont Cede Territory For Peace Deal Ahead Of Trumpputin Summit

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Russia currently occupies approximately one-fifth of Ukraines territory, primarily in the eastern and southeastern regions, including large swaths of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

These areas have been under partial or full Russian control at various points over the course of the Kremlins three-and-a-half-year war.

A vast open-pit mine stretches across the landscape on Feb. 12, 2025 in Donetsk Region, Ukraine.

Russia also holds Crimea, Ukraine's southern peninsula, which it annexed in 2014. The seizure of Crimea triggered a wave of international sanctions and led to Russias expulsion from the Group of Eight.

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"The land that Russia currently occupies in Ukraines south and east is rich in various natural resources," said David Salvo, the managing director of the Alliance for Securing Democracy at German Marshall Fund.

A map from the Institute for the Study of War and AEI's Critical Threats Project that shows Russia's territorial control of Ukraine as of Aug. 11, 2025.

"Should Russia keep that land, theyd be stealing vast quantities of critical minerals and other key economic assets. This includes important commodities on the global market, like lithium, coal, and gas," added Salvo, who previously served as the deputy secretary of states policy advisor for Europe, Eurasia and international security issues.

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This strategic importance is underscored by a warning from the Institute for the Study of War, a non-partisan, nonprofit research organization based in Washington, D.C., which cautions that Russia could exploit rare-earth mineral deposits in occupied Ukraine and sell them to China.

Zelenskyy Thanks Nato, European Leaders For Backing His Push To Join Trumpputin Summit

"Russias access to minerals in occupied Ukraine will likely augment the People's Republic of China's ability to access Ukraines minerals," the Institute for the Study of War wrote in a statement to Fox News Digital, adding that Russia has previously worked with China to extract these commodities around the globe since at least 2005.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend an official welcome ceremony in Beijing on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

"The U.S.Ukraine mineral deal signed in April 2025 will only be effective if U.S. and Ukrainian companies can access those resources," the statement from the Institute for the Study of War went on to say, noting the challenge given that Russian forces currently hold territory containing significant deposits.

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Salvo said that Russia's occupation of Ukrainian territory along the Black Sea not only restricts Ukraines sea-based exports, but also grants Moscow control over valuable offshore gas reserves.

A map from the Institute for the Study of War and AEI's Critical Threats Project that shows Russia's territorial control and several critical raw materials in Ukraine as of Aug. 11, 2025.

Salvo also estimates that Ukraine, historically known as Europe's breadbasket, stands to lose billions of dollars in grain export value.

"Ukraines economy would survive, but it would undoubtedly lose in the hundreds of billions," Salvo said.

Before Russia's full-scale invasion, agriculture was Ukraines third-largest economic sector, contributing nearly 11% of GDP and employing about 2.5 million people, according to a 2024 European Parliament report.

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According to the latest review from the Kyiv School of Economics, the Ukrainian agriculture industry has sustained approximately $80 billion in damages and losses.

The group also projects that the countrys economy will shrink by 45%, while disrupted grain exports and ongoing destruction of its agricultural sector threaten millions worldwide with hunger.





Original article source: Russia may gain Ukraines fertile, resource-rich territory as Trump proposes land swap
The Russian military has pierced pockets of Ukraines front lines in the eastern Donetsk region this week, pushing forward just days before Russias President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with President Trump in Alaska.

Russian troops have made gains in a push toward Dobropillia, a city some 60 miles northwest of Donetsk city, according to DeepState, a Ukrainian group linked to the military that tracks battlefield advances through open-source data.

In response, Ukraines 1st Azov Corps confirmed Tuesday that it was tasked with containing the Kremlins advances.

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The situation remains complex and dynamic. The enemy is attempting to advance in this direction at the cost of significant losses in manpower and equipment, the unit said Tuesday on social media. Units within the corps have planned and carried out actions to block enemy forces in the area.

The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said in its analysis late Monday that Russias drone strikes at longer ranges are likely forcing Ukrainian forces to take alternative roads and further stretch [ground lines of communication], which is likely impacting Ukraines defensive operations that rely on the consistent flow of equipment, supplies and manpower.

Pasi Paroinen, an analyst with Black Bird Group, a Finnish group that closely tracks the Russia-Ukraine war, said Monday that Ukraines forces have a crisis on their hands.

Ukrainians will almost certainly rush in reinforcements to the area, but from where and at what cost? Ukrainians are unlikely to have plenty of ready operational or strategic reserves, which means that the forces need to come off other sections of the frontline, Paroinen wrote on social platform X. This in turn will open further possibilities for the Russians to exploit elsewhere. Be as it may, there is likely no other choice.

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As the fighting has continued in eastern Ukraine, Trump, along with European leaders and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky, held a joint meeting Wednesday, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, to discuss Trumps upcoming huddle with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska.

In a joint press conference after the call, Zelensky said he warned Trump that Putin is bluffing about his openness to a peace deal.

Merz said any negotiations over territory must use the front lines as a starting point but ruled out international recognition of Russias occupation.

Some European officials have expressed concerns that the president could cut a bad deal with the Russian leader.

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The president said Monday the meeting was a chance to feel out Putin, who has not publicly backed off his maximalist demands to topple Ukraines government.

Zelensky said Tuesday that Ukraine might be asked to withdraw its military from Donbas  the eastern region that includes Donetsk and Luhansk  in exchange for a ceasefire, pointing to discussions with Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff, who met with Putin in Moscow last week.

Zelensky said he was not ready to discuss Ukraines territories, as this is solely a matter of our Constitution.

Trump has chafed at Zelenskys resistance to territorial concessions, on Monday once again blaming the Ukrainian leader for Russias invasion.

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Russian aerial attacks continued overnight, with the Kremlin firing 49 drones and two missiles in at least three regions, according to Ukraines air force.

At present, there is no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war. Our coordinated efforts and joint actions  of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and all countries that seek peace  can definitely compel Russia to make peace. I thank everyone who is helping, Zelensky said Wednesday on X.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Russia is "partially restricting" voice and video calls on the Telegram and WhatsApp messengers, the country's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced on Aug. 13.

The crackdown aligns with a broader strategy to replace Western services with domestic alternatives as the Kremlin intensifies efforts to create what it calls a "sovereign internet."

Roskomnadzor claimed the apps have become "the main services used to defraud and extort money, and to involve Russian citizens in sabotage and terrorist activities."

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The restrictions come shortly after the pro-Kremlin outlet Ostorozhno Media quoted a government source saying major Russian telecom operators had urged the Kremlin to block foreign messenger calls.

Operators reportedly pointed to rising equipment costs from sanctions, higher maintenance expenses, and surging mobile traffic, as well as concerns about liability for failing to block suspicious activity.

In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law to establish a national digital platform centered on the state-developed Max messenger, integrated with government services. Human rights groups have warned that the platform could be used as a tool for state surveillance

In recent weeks, Russian regional authorities have intensified internet shutdowns and slowdowns in an effort to disrupt Ukrainian drone navigation. Russian officials have recommended that citizens use wired internet, Wi-Fi, offline maps, and cash or non-digital payment methods when the internet is jammed.

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Meta, the U.S. company that owns WhatsApp, is designated in Russia as an "extremist organization." Citizens frequently rely on virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the country's digital censorship.

Read also: Russias hybrid empire

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Dmitry Antonov

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia said on Wednesday that its stance on ending the war in Ukraine has not changed since President Vladimir Putin set out his conditions last year: the full withdrawal of Kyiv's forces from key Ukrainian regions and the abandonment of its NATO ambitions.

Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump are due to meet on Friday in Alaska, the first U.S.-Russian summit since 2021, to discuss efforts to end the war. Trump has said both sides will have to swap some of the land they currently hold to make this happen.

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Russia currently controls 19% of Ukraine including all of Crimea, all of Luhansk, more than 70% of the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, and slivers of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions.

After reports by some media that Washington understood Putin was ready to compromise on his territorial demands, the Russian Foreign Ministry's deputy spokesperson, Alexei Fadeev, was asked by reporters if Russia's position had changed or not.

"Russia's position remains unchanged, and it was voiced in this very hall just over a year ago, on June 14, 2024," Fadeev said, referring to a speech Putin delivered then at the foreign ministry.

At that time, in his fullest public remarks so far about the shape of a possible settlement, the Kremlin chief set out demands including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the parts of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson that they still control.

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Putin also said that Kyiv would have to officially notify Moscow that it was abandoning its plans to join the U.S.-led NATO military alliance, and that it intended to remain neutral and non-aligned.

In addition, Putin said that the rights and freedoms of Russian-speakers in Ukraine would have to be ensured, and the "realities" that Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson were now part of Russia.

Putin has said his conditions would also have to be reflected in international agreements. At the time of his 2024 speech, Ukraine rejected his demands as tantamount to an absurd ultimatum.

Ukraine has repeatedly said it will never recognise Russian occupation of its land, and most countries recognise Ukraine's territory within its 1991 borders. Based on the current frontlines, Putin's demand would entail Ukraine ceding an additional 21,000 sq km (8,100 sq miles) to Russia.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said Russia must agree to a ceasefire before territorial issues are discussed. He would reject any Russian proposal that Ukraine pull its troops from the eastern Donbas region and cede its defensive lines.

(Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Anastasia Teterevleva; Editing by Mark Trevelyan)
Defence Intelligence of Ukraine has reported that Russia is failing to fulfil its state defence order for Kh-59 air-launched cruise missiles.

Source: Ukraines Defence Intelligence in an interactive diagram released on the War & Sanctions portal

Details: The data shows that of the 116 companies involved in producing the Kh-59M2/M2A missile, around 50 remain unsanctioned by any country. Yet, even under these conditions, Russia is struggling to meet its defence order.

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Defence Intelligence says Russia lacks both domestic and imported electronic components and manufacturing capacity, leading to missed production deadlines. The situation is not remedied even by using old engines and components for the guidance systems.

In some cases, manufacturers have used mock-ups with the same dimensions and weight instead of installing active radar homing heads (ARH), the most expensive part of the missile.

Meanwhile, dozens of companies continue to produce electronic components, guidance systems and other crucial parts for the Kh-59 while remaining unsanctioned. Though at reduced quality, this enables ongoing modernisation and production of the missiles.

Ukrainian intelligence emphasised that sanctions are an effective tool and urged the international community to extend them to all facilities supplying missile components.

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It is noted that Kh-59 missiles are air-to-surface systems designed to strike buildings and fortified targets. Several modifications are available for different missions and ARH types.

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Russian hackers are suspected of breaching a United States federal court filing system, the New York Times reported on Aug. 12.

The incident comes just days before a highly anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, scheduled to take place in Alaska on Aug. 15.

According the New York Times, U.S. investigators have found evidence of Russia's involvement in the recent hack of a computer system that houses federal court documents. Some of the documents reportedly contain highly sensitive information about confidential sources and individuals charged with national security crimes.

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Sources familiar with the matter said that the court system had faced ongoing infiltration attempts for several years and that hackers from other countries may have been involved.

Russia has been linked to several high-profile cyber attacks in recent years, which have escalated in the wake of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Multiple European countries have previously accused the Kremlin of ramping up cyber operations, with Russian hacker groups carrying out cyberattacks against Ukraine, breaching civilian infrastructure in Europe, and interfering in foreign elections.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine takes effective measures to stop Russian infiltration near Dobropillia, Pokrovsk, military says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump will be of the utmost importance for international peace and stability, according to the Kremlin.

Aimed at normalizing bilateral ties between the two countries, Friday's much-anticipated talks in Alaska will address all issues that have accumulated - from the Ukraine conflict to the obstacles to normal dialogue between the two countries, Deputy Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexei Fadeyev said in Moscow.

His comments came as Trump was set to hold online talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as well as European leaders, who are expected to press him on the issue of territorial concessions, amid fears that Trump could broker some kind of agreement with Putin that violates Ukraine's sovereignty.

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Asked about the possibility of Russia and Ukraine swapping territory in order to bring the war to an end, Fadeyev merely pointed to the Russian constitution, which governs territorial matters.

Speculation has been rife for days whether Ukraine might be open to concede some territories occupied by Russia in exchange for others, though Zelensky has rejected making any such concessions.

Since the beginning of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has illegally annexed the four Ukrainian territories of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya and Kherson, though it does not fully control them, and is threatening to take further territory if the war continues.

In 2014, Moscow illegally annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea.
(Reuters) -Joint exercises to be held by the Russian and Belarusian armies next month will include drills on the planned use of nuclear weapons and the Russian-made, intermediate-range hypersonic Oreshnik missile, Belarus' defence minister said on Wednesday.

The comments by Viktor Khrenin come just two days before U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet in Alaska to discuss a possible deal to end the full-scale war in Ukraine, which Moscow launched in part from Belarusian territory in February 2022.

Khrenin told journalists in Minsk that the Belarusians would work with their Russian counterparts on how to use the Oreshnik, as well as nuclear weapons, during the military exercises, to be held in Belarus from September 12-16.

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"This is an important element of our strategic deterrence. As the head of state demands, we must be prepared for anything," Khrenin was quoted as saying by Belta, a Belarusian state news agency.

"We see the situation on our western and northern borders and cannot calmly watch the militarisation and military activity. We demonstrate our openness and peacefulness, but we must always keep our powder dry."

Belarus borders Poland, Lithuania and Latvia - all NATO members - to the west and north, while in the south it borders Ukraine.

Putin said this month that the Oreshnik (Hazel Tree) had gone into serial production and had been delivered to the armed forces. Moscow first used the weapon against Ukraine last November, targeting the city of Dnipro.

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The Kremlin said last week it would no longer place any limits on where it deploys intermediate-range missiles that can carry nuclear warheads, after lifting a moratorium on deployment of such weapons in what it cast as a forced response to moves by the West.

The scheduled drills, called "Zapad-2025" (West-2025), have raised security concerns in neighbouring Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. President Alexander Lukashenko has dismissed the idea that Minsk would utilise the exercises to attack its neighbours as "complete nonsense."

Belarusian defence officials have pointed to upcoming joint NATO drills in Poland, involving at least 34,000 troops, as evidence of growing militarisation along Belarus' borders.

"We need to watch them very closely (which is what we will be doing) and respond accordingly," Khrenin said on Wednesday, referring to the NATO drills.

"If they show any aggression toward the Republic of Belarus, we have the means to respond."

(Reporting by Lucy PapachristouEditing by Gareth Jones)
Russian forces have attacked a car and an ambulance with drones in Kherson and Donetsk oblasts, killing and injuring civilians.

Source: State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES)

Details: A Russian UAV struck a car in the Beryslav district of Kherson Oblast, killing a man and injuring a woman. Rescue workers removed the deceased from the vehicle and took the woman to hospital.

In addition, a strike on an ambulance caused a fire, which firefighters extinguished.

The car damaged in the Russian drone strike in Kherson Oblast

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Photo: SES

The car damaged in the Russian drone strike in Kherson Oblast

Photo: SES

The ambulance damaged in the Russian drone strike in Kherson Oblast

Photo: SES

In Donetsk Oblast, a Russian drone hit a car carrying three people. The vehicle veered into a ditch. Police pulled out two men, while rescue workers freed the third person and handed them over to medics.

The car veered into a ditch after the Russian drone strike in Donetsk Oblast

Photo: SES

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Despite clear directives under the Farishtey Scheme, a government initiative that guarantees free emergency treatment for accident victims at both public and empanelled private hospitals for the first 72 hours, Jha was repeatedly turned away.

Advocate Ashok Agarwal, a member of the Delhi High Court-appointed Free Beds Monitoring Committee, condemned the hospitals' actions in a formal complaint to the Delhi Health Secretary.

He stated that the refusal to treat Jha not only violated the scheme's guidelines but also breached legal provisions that allow for punitive measures, including cancellation of hospital registrations.

Agarwal accused the hospitals of placing financial interests above human life, despite being fully aware of their obligations under the law. After being denied care at multiple facilities, Jha was finally admitted to a government hospital, but by then, it was too late. He succumbed to his injuries.

Agarwal has called on the Delhi government's Nursing Home Cell to take decisive action against the institutions involved. He stated that such negligence undermines the very foundation of emergency care policies designed to protect and preserve life. (ANI)
A photograph shared in a group chat shows two men dressed in civilian clothing walking out of a house in downtown Pokrovsk, eastern Ukraine.

Watch out, these are Russians, the message reads, in a warning to other members of Ukraines 25th Separate Airborne Brigade. For weeks now, these war-battered Ukrainian soldiers stationed in the city have not only been attacked by Russian drones but also Vladimir Putins troops disguised as civilians.

Russian forces are using this new tactic to infiltrate Pokrovsk, a key logistical hub, and attack Ukrainian soldiers from within, The Telegraph can reveal.

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Its part of Russias race to seize the city and as much Ukrainian territory as its forces will allow ahead of Putins peace talks with Donald Trump, the US president, on Friday.

The Telegraph revealed Ukraine could agree to cede territory already held by Russia as part of a European-backed plan for peace. This would mean freezing the front line as part of Mr Trumps settlement and handing Russia de-facto control of the territory it occupies in Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson and Crimea.

Watch out, these are Russians  the photograph shared in a group chat showing two men dressed in civilian clothing in Pokrovsk

And Russias efforts to take as much land as possible are ramping up. Sabotage and reconnaissance units have driven through exposed defences near Dobropillia in Donetsk, marching as far as six miles behind the front line in just 48 hours, battlefield reports say. Their aim is to cut off Pokrovsk and the city of Kramatorsk, another vital stronghold in the Donbas still under Ukraines control.

Yet defiant Ukrainian soldiers are refusing to give up their fight in Pokrovsk, the scene of some of the fiercest fighting of the war. Its here that Russian troops are hiding in plain clothes among the population, Illia Petryna, a deputy commander, told The Telegraph.

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We witnessed Russians change from their military clothes, even changing into our uniforms. We find Russian military clothes in areas where we know they were, he says. The brigade has even intercepted Russian radio chatter in which Russian soldiers discuss these disguises.

According to Petryna, their main task is to attack infantry groups or light-armoured vehicles and disrupt Ukraines logistics. Their secondary task is to communicate with locals and spread disinformation. They tell them that there are already 500 Russians who have entered Pokrovsk, to convince them not to help Ukrainians any more, he says.

At least 28 Russian soldiers were identified in the latter half of last month. Petryna says the wave of saboteurs was first detected on July 18 when poor weather limited Ukraines drone operations and gave Russian troops an opportunity to slip into the city undetected.

The saboteurs moved in groups of three or four, occupying abandoned homes and wearing whatever civilian clothing they could find. In one case, a Russian soldier, the last survivor of his unit, was found wearing a Ukrposhta T-shirt, the uniform of Ukraines state postal service.

One Russian soldier was found wearing a Ukrposhta T-shirt, the uniform of Ukraines state postal service in a bid to disguise himself

In a video shown to The Telegraph, a mobile phone recovered from a Russian soldier displays a map of what appears to be Pokrovsk. The map is marked with colour-coded numbers and roads, routes and safe passages used by Russian troops to infiltrate the city.

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We found a route they were using to enter the city, says Petryna. An assault brigade was ordered in and the entrance was closed. As Ukrainian forces moved along that route, they began finding discarded uniforms in houses. That is when we started filtration among civilians, he says.

The filtration process lasted nine days. Ukrainian soldiers went house to house along known infiltration routes, speaking to residents to determine friend from foe. In one building, Petryna says they engaged with Russian troops. Ukrainian forces killed the entire unit by throwing grenades into the basement where they were hiding. Upstairs, they found their discarded Russian uniforms strewn about the rooms.

A Ukrainian soldier stands over a jacket bearing camouflage in the house where a group of Russian troops were found hiding in the basement

Civilians in Pokrovsk have been helping Ukrainian forces identify the saboteurs. One video shows two elderly residents pointing a Ukrainian drone towards a house where Russian soldiers were hiding. The woman, balanced on her walking stick as she opened the gate for the drone to pass through and kill the troops inside.

But their presence can also complicate matters and there are cases where Ukrainian soldiers are unsure who is friend or foe. It is very difficult, says Petryna, recounting a case where a mysterious antenna appeared on the roof of a building. Our drones started to fly around this building. [thinking Russians may be hiding there], and first it was a man who came out, and then he showed his wife and his kid.

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Because Ukraine does not enforce evacuations from embattled towns, soldiers must constantly decide who is a civilian and who may be an enemy in disguise. This uncertainty also limits the weaponry they can use, often forcing reliance on drones instead of artillery.

In addition to carrying out sabotage, Petryna believes Russian soldiers wear civilian clothes out of fear and in the hope of going undetected. He says the brigade has intercepted radio chatter in which Russian troops questioned their purpose. They started to ask themselves, Why are we here? We do not understand what the task is.

While some reports suggest the saboteurs could be Russian Diversion and Reconnaissance groups (DRG), a type of special forces, Deputy Commander Petryna says the soldiers found in Pokrovsk are regular infantry, a platoon of about 30 men, split into smaller groups of three or four. We are sure they will not send their special forces into Pokrovsk on these assignments because it is almost 100 per cent death, he says.

According to Petryna, these soldiers are used as cannon fodder, sometimes sent into the city as punishment and as a cheap way to gather intelligence on Ukrainian positions.

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The Ukrainian deputy commander says he heard of one DRG operating in the nearby town of Rodynske, but that group has since been eliminated. It is very difficult to hold the defence all up and down the front, especially when the weather is bad. We have found some spaces where they [Russian soldiers] just jump in.

Russian DRG units have been confirmed operating in the wider area. This week, they achieved a major breakthrough north-east of Pokrovsk. Russian assault units followed soon afterwards, establishing positions seven kilometres deep into Ukrainian lines. The breakthrough occurred in fewer than 48 hours.

On Tuesday, Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraines commander in chief of the armed forces, deployed additional troops to Pokrovsk to eliminate saboteur groups in the city. The enemy is using its numerical superiority and, despite suffering heavy personnel losses, is trying to infiltrate our front line in small groups, said Andrii Kovaliov, spokesman for the general staff of the armed forces of Ukraine.

For now, Pokrovsk hangs in the balance. Depending on the outcome of Fridays meeting in Alaska between the US and Russia, if Ukraine cannot hold the Donetsk region through diplomacy, Russia may take it by force. Its capture would help secure the entirety of the Donetsk region and boost momentum at a time when the Kremlin is making slow but consistent gains on the battlefield.

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For those in Ukraines front-line cities, they will fear that by the time Mr Trump sits down with Putin and any form of peace is agreed, their homes could have already taken by advancing Russian troops.

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DeepState, a Ukrainian group of military analysts, reported on the night of 12-13 August that Russian forces had advanced in several settlements in Donetsk Oblast, while Ukrainian defenders pushed the Russians back in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Source: DeepState

Details: DeepState reported that Russian units had advanced in Nykanorivka and Shcherbynivka and near Petrivka in Donetsk Oblast.

Meanwhile, the analysts reported that Ukrainian assault troops had successfully mopped up the outskirts of Stepnohirsk in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Background:

On 11 August, DeepState reported that Russian troops had intensified their advance near Dobropillia in recent days, particularly attempting to secure a foothold near the Dobropillia-Kramatorsk road. The analysts highlighted this advance on their interactive map of hostilities in Ukraine, marking it with two wedges near Dobropillia.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that Ukrainian defence forces are taking effective measures to stop Russia's advance on the Dobropillia and Pokrovsk fronts.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine took up a designated defence position on the Pokrovsk front a few days ago. Information available to UP indicates that the area in question is in the direction of Dobropillia and the Dobropillia-Kramatorsk road.

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One person has been killed in a Russian attack on the village of Chornobaivka in Kherson Oblast on the morning of 13 August.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Facebook

Quote: "Russian occupiers shelled Chornobaivka with artillery in the morning.

A house has been destroyed in the attack. Rescue workers have recovered the body of a 61-year-old woman from under the rubble."

Details: Several neighbouring homes were also damaged. Their roofs and facades were destroyed and windows were shattered.

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Russia's daily average casualties in the war in Ukraine amount to roughly 1,000, about three times the number of Ukrainian losses, President Volodymyr Zelensky said at a meeting with journalists on Aug. 12 attended by the Kyiv Independent.

"For example, yesterday's figures, which are roughly average: Russian losses per day were about 1,000  500 killed and 500 wounded," Zelensky said.

Even as Russian forces have incurred massive losses amid the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, their advance has picked up pace in recent months in the face of undermanned Ukrainian brigades in eastern Donetsk Oblast.

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Providing more detailed figures, Zelensky said that Russia suffered 531 soldiers killed, 428 injured, and nine captured on Aug. 11. In turn, Ukraine's losses amounted to 340, including 18 killed, 243 injured, and 79 missing, he claimed.

"Thats about 1-to-3  their losses are three times higher," Zelensky claimed.

The Kyiv Independent could not independently verify the figures.

The Ukrainian military claims Russian casualties surpass 1 million killed, wounded, and captured as of August, a figure largely in line with Western estimates. Moscow does not disclose its casualty figures.

A June study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimated that 400,000 Ukrainian troops have also been killed or wounded since 2022, a tally close to the figure provided by Zelensky in December.

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At the same time, Moscow has a 1-to-3 advantage in manpower and a 1-to-2.4 advantage in artillery, Zelensky said.

Ukraine holds a 1-to-1.4 advantage in first-person-view (FPV) drones, a ratio that could reach even 1-to-4 with additional funding from European partners, according to the president.

Kyiv has long been struggling with infantry shortages, lacking the capacity to offset the losses at the same pace as Russia.

Thinned Ukrainian defenses provide potential openings for Russian advances. Moscow's forces reportedly advanced up to 10 kilometers near Dobropillia in Donetsk Oblast earlier this week as part of a broader offensive between two major embattled towns, Pokrovsk and Kostiantynivka.

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Zelensky said in January that Ukraine's military fields some 880,000 soldiers in the face of a 600,000-strong Russian invasion force, though Moscow holds numerical advantage in certain areas due to the concentration of forces.

Read also: Everything we know about Russias rapid advance in Donetsk Oblast ahead of key talks with Trump

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Russia's navy appears to be stretched thin from setbacks in the Black Sea and Syria, a Dutch commander said.

Ukrainian attacks on the Black Sea Fleet and the loss of a key Syrian port have dealt major blows.

Now, Russia's ships and submarines appear to be under greater strain at sea.

TROMS, NORWAY  Russia's navy looks to be stretched thin by the Ukrainian attacks in the Black Sea and the loss of a key port in Syria, a top Dutch commander told Business Insider.

During an interview aboard the Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS De Ruyter last week, Commodore Arjen Warnaar said these recent setbacks have greatly affected the Russian Navy from the Mediterranean Sea to the Arctic region.

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"I think they're stretched," said Warnaar, commander of Standing NATO Maritime Group 1  one of the military alliance's immediate reaction forces  while its flagship vessel De Ruyter conducted operations in the Norwegian Sea.

Russia's navy has always been under a certain degree of strain due to limits in shipbuilding, maintenance, and modernization, redeployment challenges, and operational overstretch. Recent setbacks, however, have put further pressure on the fleet.

At the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine lacked a naval force capable of meeting the threat. What little it had didn't last long. To prevent the Russians from capturing it, the Ukrainians scuttled their one major warship. Its other naval vessels were damaged, destroyed, or captured.

To project power in the Black Sea and fight back against Moscow, Kyiv launched an asymmetric military campaign involving domestically produced naval drones and missile strikes.

Handout footage shows smoke rising from what Ukrainian military intelligence said is the Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergey Kotov that was damaged by Ukrainian sea drones, at sea, at a location given as off the coast of Crimea, in this still image obtained from a video released on March 5, 2024. Ministry of Defense of Ukraine/Handout via REUTERS

Ukrainian operations have damaged or destroyed dozens of Russian warships and naval vessels and forced Moscow to relocate much of the Black Sea Fleet from its Sevastopol headquarters in occupied Crimea to the port of Novorossiysk on the other side of the region.

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Staggering Russian losses and forced retreats under relentless Ukrainian strikes have stretched a Russian fleet already hobbled by attrition, aging ships in need of repair, and a shipbuilding industry too strained to replace them.

Russia's naval setbacks worsened in late 2024 after Syrian rebel forces seized the capital, Damascus, and toppled the Assad regime, bringing a swift end to the country's yearslong civil war.

Russia provided military support to the Assad regime during the brutal conflict, and in exchange, it enjoyed a significant presence at Syria's Tartus naval facility on the Mediterranean Sea. However, the change in Damascus has jeopardized the future of Moscow's operations at the strategic port.

Warnaar said the fallout of these two setbacks has been significant for the Russian Navy.

A Maxar satellite image captured on December 17, 2024, showed several ships stationed at the port of Tartus. Satellite image 2024 Maxar Technologies

"I think they've always been stretched," Warnaar said of Russia's naval forces, but the situation looks to be getting worse. "Once things start to happen  and, obviously, Ukraine is an example  they'll be even more stretched." He noted that NATO has the assets for any additional stretch required.

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"Looking at what they're doing in the Mediterranean, losing a port there means losing logistical support  and that stretches the capabilities they have, which mainly come from this Northern Fleet," the commander said. The Northern Fleet is based in Russia's Murmansk region, along the Barents Sea.

A NATO official echoed Warnaar's assessment and said losing Tartus means Russia now needs to pull assets from other regions to support operations in the Mediterranean, putting greater stress on Moscow's ships and submarines and support systems to sustain the deployments.

And Russia's Black Sea losses have only added to its force generation challenges, said the NATO official, speaking with Business Insider on the condition of anonymity to discuss alliance observations concerning Russia's navy.

These issues are not unique to the Russian Navy. The official said many militaries face force generation issues. But Moscow's problems are compounded by its efforts to keep pace with NATO's vast, jointly organized maritime presence around the European continent.

NATO forces deployed to the Arctic region last month. NATO Allied Maritime Command

These challenges are becoming increasingly important in the Arctic region, where climate change is opening up new shipping lanes, creating military and economic opportunities for NATO allies  and adversaries.

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The growing significance of the High North region was underscored last month when Standing NATO Maritime Group 1  led by the sleek Dutch warship De Ruyter  deployed to the frigid waters off the northern coast of Norway to conduct a range of operations.

British Cdr. Craig Raeburn, chief of staff of the maritime group, told Business Insider that NATO was "operating in this area because it's something we haven't done for a while." He said one of the many reasons the consortium of warships deployed to the Arctic is to keep an eye on Russian activity in the region and also "see how they react to us being here."

Moscow was relatively unmoved by the deployment. At one point, a lone Russian naval aircraft operated in close proximity to the maritime group, but none of its ships came out to monitor the NATO activity, Warnaar said. He attributed this to possible strain on the Russian Navy following a series of major exercises called July Storm.

Cdr. Arlo Abrahamson, spokesperson for NATO Allied Maritime Command, said the alliance's maritime presence across the Euro-Atlantic is intended to defend and protect allied interests.

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"In projecting this maritime presence, with a robust security network of Allied navies, if an adversary wants to maintain a similar profile, it's going to place strain on their force generation capabilities," Abrahamson said in emailed remarks to Business Insider. Russia isn't able to match that without stress on the fleet.

Read the original article on Business Insider
ONEIDA, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  Oneida City School District has pulled back on making Bishop Grimes a temporary home for the 2025-26 school year.

In an email that went out to families on Aug. 13, the district explained that their decision comes out of an abundance of caution regarding circumstances out of their control. Thus, leading them to not sign the lease for the upcoming years.

Before signing the lease, we brought in our maintenance team, engineers, architects, IT specialists, and outside contractors to conduct a thorough review of the facility. Based on their professional assessments, significant work would have been required to address mechanical, heating, safety, and network systems. Unfortunately, these upgrades could not be completed in a timely fashion to ensure the building would be fully ready and safe for the start of school, the email stated in part.

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Flood damage closed the high school back in June, and after a thorough assessment, the district found they could not return the following fall.

The safety and well-being of our students and staff will always remain our highest priority, and we will continue to take every step necessary to provide a secure and supportive learning environment, the district continued. We want to thank the Diocese for offering the space and for working closely with us throughout this process.

Javarin Daniels, a Junior at Oneida High School, hopes he can still run track and cross country this year.

Im really nervous we wont be able to have team practices, said Daniels. Im excited, Im looking forward to my classes, and Im hoping whatever solution they have doesnt make the classes harder.

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According to the City of Oneida School District, more information will be provided in the coming days regarding plans for the academic year.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Salvation Army announced on Wednesday, Aug. 13, that it is facing significant budget shortcomings that are forcing the organization to temporarily reduce capacity at The Family Hope Center beginning Oct. 2025.

Unfortunately, we are forced to take this painful step while El Paso County is seeing an increased need for emergency sheltering for families experiencing homelessness. However, we believe that we will be able to raise sufficient funds to restore the Family Hope Center to full capacity through our Hope Needs Help fundraising campaign once the community is aware of our need, said Major Steve Ball, El Paso County Coordinator for The Salvation Army.

According to the Salvation Army, an increased demand for its services, a decline in donations, and decreased funding opportunities have left the organization with a $1,000,000 shortfall in its 2025 budget. To hopefully combat this, the Salvation Army is launching a new fundraising and public awareness campaign: Hope Needs Help.

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The campaign will feature an email, mail, and media rollout, as well as a social media campaign that will spotlight people impacted by the charitys work. Local businesses are also encouraged to contact the Salvation Army for a donation-matching initiative.

An open house is also scheduled for Sept. 3, 2025, at the Salvation Armys Family Hope Center at 709 South Sierra Madre Street.

100% of the funds raised will go to support emergency food distribution, homelessness prevention, veteran support, and youth mentorship programs.

Donations can be made securely at HelpColoradoSprings.com or by mailing a check to: The Salvation Army Colorado Springs, 908 Yuma Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80909.

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People know The Salvation Army from our red kettles, but our work happens 365 days a year, said Major Ball. Were asking the community to be our partner, not just during the holidays, but now, when families are depending on us more than ever.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
San Diego Border Patrol revives Horse Patrol Unit

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)Made up of twelve horses and 10 riders, the San Diego Sector Horse Patrol Unit surveils the area stretching from the sandy shores of Imperial Beach to the mountainous terrain of Boulevard.

Its a very important, just historical facet of our agency, said Joseph Rood, San Diego Sector Border Patrol Public Affairs Officer.

The sector has a rich history dating back to 1924, when many patrol inspectors rode horses.

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Around the 50s, they started moving away from the horses, and they mostly used just vehicles, off-road vehicles, said Victor Roldan, Border Patrol Agent.

However, Roldan says in 1979, San Diego was the first sector to bring back the Horse Patrol, but a few years ago, everything changed.

It was a nationwide halt to operations at that time, Rood said.

The unit was temporarily stood down back in 2023 because of the large number of people coming across claiming asylum, Roldan said.

Roldan says that with the significant amount of time it takes to complete the paperwork to process asylum cases, the San Diego sector was overrun.

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Now that that has slowed down quite a bit, we have a lot more manpower to go back out in the field, Roldan said.

According to the border patrol, at this time last year, when the horse patrol was out of commission, they had apprehended approximately 280,000 people during that fiscal year.

At this time right now, fiscal year 25, we are currently at about 47,000 apprehensions, Rood said.

Which is an 83 percent decrease, according to Border Patrol.

Though apprehensions are down, some migrant advocates have concerns about the reimplementation of the horse patrol unit.

The concerns go back to just a few years ago when Border Patrol in the Del Rio sector did use horses and were seen pushing Haitian migrants back into a small swath of land, appeared to be whipping at them as they were doing so, said Pedro Rios, American Friends Service Committee Director.

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We know that the Department of Homeland Security, under this new administration, no longer has the same oversight agencies that they had just even a year ago, Rios added.

Rios says he thinks they were using the horses to enforce immigration laws in a way that was subjecting people to unprovoked violence.

There really isnt an agency that would pursue an investigation regarding those complaints, said Rios.

Though Border Patrol officials declined to comment on the Del Rio incident, they said all Border Patrol agents are held to a standard set by the Office of Professional Responsibility.

They need to understand that all agents, regardless of their line duties, are held to the standard of the Office of Professional Responsibility, Rood said.

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Border Patrol says those interested in joining the horse patrol unit must first go through an interview process, a training program and meet a rigorous set of standards before they can then go out in the field.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Taking part in a mass mobilization on Tuesday, protesters rallied against Israels recent targeted killing of Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif.

The rally was organized by the Palestinian Youth Movement organization. Locals gathered in front of The San Diego Union Tribune office to bring attention to demands related to press rights and the ongoing conflict overseas.

According to a press release, the groups demands include:

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An end to the blockage on foreign press entry into Gaza

An investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the killing of journalists.

An arms embargo and halt to all shipments of weapons to Israel.

Newsrooms to flood headlines with Gazas silenced stories.

Immediate entry of aid, food, and clean water into Gaza.

Protesters held photos of killed journalists, Palestinian flags and signs that read Ceasefire Now and Send Bread Not Bombs.

Israeli officials confirmed the targeted airstrikes of al-Sharif, Mohammed Quraiqa and three other members in their media tent, accusing al-Sharif of collaborating with Hamas.

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STRUCK: Hamas terrorist Anas Al-Sharif, who posed as an Al Jazeera journalist, Israeli Defense Forces posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Al-Sharif was the head of a Hamas terrorist cell and advanced rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF troops.

A press badge isnt a shield for terrorism, the post continued.

A tracker made by the Associated Press states that the war has been the most dangerous conflict for journalists in recent history, with Israeli forces having killed at least 184 Palestinian journalists, according to AP.

The outlet has cited this data comes from the Committee to Protect Journalists.

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We call on all organizations, media sites, press unions, journalists, and supporters of justice worldwide to act now, before Gaza is wiped off the map, the Palestinian Youth Movement said in a press release. If the world looks away, Gazas annihilation will happen in darkness. We must act now and call on all media organizations to amplify voices from Gaza before its too late.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
SAN FRANCISCO - Teacher frustrations are once again boiling over at San Francisco public schools over payroll problems that educators say have left some of them thousands of dollars short.

Continued frustrations

What we know

Members of the United Educators of San Francisco union rallied Tuesday outside San Francisco Unified School District headquarters to protest what they describe as incorrect paychecks, just days before the first day of the school year. The protest comes after the district spent millions of dollars replacing its old payroll system, Empower, with a new platform called Frontline. The switch was intended to fix previous payroll issues, but union officials say it has created fresh ones.

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"I am owed over $6,000 that I was supposed to be paid several weeks ago," said Leslie Hu, an SFUSD community school coordinator.

Union leaders said they warned district officials months ago about potential problems with the transition.

"We see a crisis coming, we need to know what is the plan," said Frank Lara, the unions vice president. "The initial conversations with the district were very dismissive."

What they're saying

According to the union, some employee payroll details were not properly transferred into the new system, resulting in incorrect paychecks. They say about 100 paraeducators are missing more than $1,000 each in vacation pay, while other teachers are short between $2,000 to $3,000.

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"I have to pay late fees for the rent, late fees for the credit card, and interest for it," said paraeducator Liayao Zhu.

Superintendent Maria Su said more than 97% of paychecks have been issued correctly since the transition and that the district has added staff to resolve problems.

"We are working really quickly to address concerns and on day one we opened a call center," said Su. "As of last night, there were 750 tickets, and we have resolved 650 of them."

Su added that the majority of school districts across California use the pay system.

"It is a system that is used by over 60% of school districts up and down the state of California. The problem is transition," said Su, noting that many of the problems are due to insufficient training of teachers in how to enter data correctly.

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The Union meantime, has filed an unfair labor practice complaint with the California Public Employment Relations Board.

"This is a formal legal demand against the district," said Lara. "We are not going to stand idly by to see this districts mismanagement and lack of accountability force instability onto our schools."

In a statement to KTVU, School Board President Phil Kim said, "Any discrepancies in paychecks can be alarming, especially given the history of our payroll challenges. Its critically important that issues get resolved quickly. Implementation of any new software will have its challenges, but Im encouraged to hear that over 97% of the paychecks issued as of today have been accurate. We owe it to our all of our staff to ensure their pay is on whole and on time. EmPower was a disaster. We will get Frontline right."




The Telangana government has declared a half-day holiday for all government and private schools in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) area on August 13 and 14, following a forecast of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The Meteorological Department has predicted very heavy to extremely heavy rain in some parts of the GHMC area on both days. In view of this, schools in the GHMC limits will function only in the morning shift. The order applies to all government and private institutions in the area. Instructions have been sent to all Collectors, District Educational Officers, and the Regional Joint Director of School Education in Hyderabad to ensure compliance with the order. The Telangana government has also cancelled the leave of all irrigation department officials for the next four days in view of a heavy to very heavy rainfall alert. All officials have been directed to remain at their duty stations and stay fully alert to prevent any mishap or damage due to excessive rain. He instructed officials to keep a close watch on all irrigation projects, reservoirs, canals and tanks. At the first sign of any possible breach or damage, officials have been told to immediately inform their district Collector, district Chief Engineer and the Engineer-in-Chief (Irrigation). The Principal Secretary (Irrigation) and Engineer-in-Chief have also been asked to monitor the situation in all districts closely. Telangana Irrigation, Food and Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy said any irrigation official in the state should directly inform him if an alarming situation develops in any irrigation department assets or water bodies. On Tuesday, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had instructed the officials to take all necessary safety measures to avoid the loss of life during heavy rains and also ensure no vehicle movement on the flooding bridges, canals, streams and causeways brimming with heavy flows in the low-lying areas, reads an official press release. Special protective measures will also be taken to prevent the loss of livestock, cattle, goats and sheep while crossing the streams with high flows in the districts. (ANI)
Rep. Sarah Stevens (Photo: NCGA screengrab)

Rep. Sarah Stevens campaign for North Carolina Supreme Court has returned donations from lobbyists following multiple news reports and a complaint to the State Board of Elections.

Paul Shumaker, an adviser to Stevens campaign, confirmed that donations from Harold Brubaker and Andy Munn, both registered lobbyists, had been returned.

Shumaker added that under the equity of the law, Stevens opponent  incumbent Associated Justice Anita Earls  is allowed to accept contributions from lobbyists for her campaign committee.

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WRAL first reported that Stevens campaign would return the donations. NC Newsline initially highlighted the donation by Brubaker last week.

North Carolina law allows donations to judicial candidates from lobbyists. But it prohibits registered lobbyists from contributing to sitting legislators campaigns, regardless of the office the legislator is seeking. And it bars lawmakers from soliciting or accepting such donations.

Earls, as a sitting judge, also faces some restrictions on her fundraising. She cannot personally solicit donations from parties and attorneys presently appearing before the judge, according to the Judicial Standards Commission.

Bob Hall, a longtime campaign finance watchdog, has filed a complaint with the board asking them to rule that the donation violated state law.

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Spokesperson Pat Gannon told NC Newsline that all complaint and investigations were confidential, and that staff followed the boards campaign finance complaint policy.

Hall said he was leaving the complaint as filed, and would let Stevens communicate with the state board and the process continue to resolution.

Updated 8:38 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14 to include comment from Bob Hall.
A newly launched satellite will help with weather forecasting and climate analysis.

UK Aerospace company Airbus, based in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, built the MetOp-SG A1 under leadership from the European Space Agency (ESA).

It was successfully launched into orbit on an Ariane 6 rocket from Europe's spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 01:37 BST.

Five more satellites are being built by Airbus in Toulouse, France, and Friedrichshafen, Germany, which will ensure coverage over the next two decades.

The rocket successfully launched in the early hours of Tuesday morning [European Space Agency]

The satellites work in pairs, with one providing atmospheric sounding and imaging data, and the other offering microwave imaging and radar observations.

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The satellites included a propulsion system which allowed them to begin a descent into the sea after their mission was complete, reducing space debris.

Martin Gittins, head of propulsion programme at Airbus Stevenage, said more than 100 engineers have worked on the project in the Hertfordshire town alone.

He has worked on this project with his team since 2016.

He said: "You can't get much more exciting than seeing a rocket launch and your payload being delivered safely into space.

"Yes, it's a long programme, but you have to balance that with the excitement of the launch."

Martin Gittins has worked on this project for nine years [BBC/Janine Machin]

Simonetta Cheli, ESA's director of earth observation programmes, said the satellites will help predictions despite "increasingly erratic weather patterns".

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He explained: "Timely and precise forecasting has never been more crucial, and the MetOp-SG mission is now set to play a critical role in improving weather forecasts and climate monitoring."

Alain Faure, head of space systems at Airbus, added: "The successful launch of MetOp-SG A1 is a landmark moment for Europe and for global weather forecasting.

"Having designed and built the first generation of MetOp satellites, we now see the first of this powerful new series in orbit.

"These satellites will be the sentinels of our planet, helping to deliver more accurate weather predictions that benefit citizens across the globe."

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A screenshot of Charleston Police Department dashcam footage showing South Carolina gubernatorial candidate Mullins McLeod in the back seat of a police cruiser following his May 14, 2025 arrest for disorderly conduct in downtown Charleston. After reviewing the video, the state Democratic Party called on McLeod to suspend his campaign. (Screenshot from Charleston Police Department dashcam)

The chair of South Carolinas Democratic Party is calling on Mullins McLeod to discontinue his campaign for governor and focus on his mental health after his nearly 35-minute, profanity-laden rant in the back of a police cruiser became public.

It is clear that Mr. McLeod is navigating profound challenges and should focus on his mental and emotional well-being instead of a campaign for governor, state Democratic Party Chairwoman Christale Spain said in a statement Wednesday.

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Her plea came hours after The Post and Courier first reported on the dashcam video and two days after McLeod became the first Democrat to enter the 2026 governors race.

It appears McLeod is not heeding Spains advice, with his campaign manager telling the SC Daily Gazette he wont back away.

Everything is straight ahead, said Democratic strategist Cary Cranford. He declined to address McLeods mental health.

McLeod did not respond to messages Wednesday left by the SC Daily Gazette. Nor did his criminal defense attorney.

The dashcam video comes from McLeods arrest in May on disorderly conduct charges. In it, the 53-year-old personal injury attorney jumps incoherently from one grievance to the next  shouting expletives and accusations for the entire ride against a variety of state and federal lawmakers and using a racial slur. He repeatedly threatens people he doesnt like  saying hell kick their teeth in or let someone else do it  and occasionally yells out McLeod for governor!

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The high-profile lawyers arrest, which made headlines in May, did not stop the Democrat from launching his bid Monday for the Governors Mansion. In his three-minute campaign video posted to YouTube, he criticizes corruption at the Statehouse. Asked Monday about his arrest, he disputed the police report but declined to go into details. However, he pledged to fully explain what happened before voters go to the polls.

Dash camera footage released from Charleston Police showed what happened after he was placed in the back seat of the cruiser. The department released the video, first to The Post and Courier and then to the SC Daily Gazette, in response to public records requests.

The video starts with McLeod rambling about class-action lawsuits and little money going to victims. When an officer asks for his name, he says all that matters is that hes one of the most just humans to ever walk this soil. When the officer calls him John Doe, McLeod says hed rather go by Superman.

Once the door closes, he seemingly tells himself, I cant connect these dots yet, but if this is going where I think it could be heading, I think I just figured out the president of the United States is my cousin. So, trust me at this point, nothing is crazier either than you and me either being related or you being not guilty. Thats just the way may brain has been trained.

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Then the shouting starts.

The video was taken after officers responded to The Battery at the tip of Charlestons peninsula about 9:30 p.m. May 14 and found McLeod wearing just underwear and shoes and yelling at the top of his lungs, according to the police report, obtained by the Gazette.

The video shows him obviously shirtless. During the ride, officers turn up the radio to a Taylor Swift song, seemingly to try to drown out his ranting. It ends with him reluctantly getting out of the cruiser. Whether hes wearing boxers or shorts is unclear. His shoes appear to be loafers or slippers.

Im not getting out of this car. Im not doing it, he says when they arrive at the jail. When the officer asks why he says because its time to go to bed. Ill sleep right here.

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During the ride, McLeod used partial or full names of a long list of South Carolina officials for what he deems corrupt behavior. At one point, he used a vulgarity to describe a Black man.

One of his repeated targets is state Attorney General Alan Wilson, who he references by his full name. The states top prosecutor is among five Republicans who have launched a 2026 bid for governor.

Allen f****** Wilson, Im daring you right now, McLeod shouts on the video before calling the attorney general out for not doing the peoples work.

McLeod then launches into a tirade against Nancy  presumably U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, another governor hopeful. He repeatedly calls her a b**** and says shes using the playbook of the late Lee Atwater, a Republican strategist notorious for dirty campaign tactics.

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Tell the world right now, what you did in the halls of Congress was the greatest sin ever committed in the history of this nation, McLeod continues.

He doesnt say exactly what hes talking about. But in February, Mace accused her ex-fiance and three other men of an array of sexual crimes, including raping and videotaping women without their knowledge, during a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. The men have repeatedly denied Maces accusations. One sued her. Mace sued another. No criminal charges have been filed.

Wilsons campaign did not respond to requests for comment from the SC Daily Gazette.

Maces spokesperson said McLeod needs help.

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He threatened to violently kick a womans teeth in, Sydney Long said. Those who promote violence against women should never hold public office. We hope he gets the help he needs.

Other politicians McLeod mentions include Gov. Henry McMaster, former Gov. Nikki Haley and President Donald Trump. McLeod calls Trump a racist a**, refers to Haley as a b**** and appears to call on McMaster to sell the state plane.

He raves about Elon Musk and the Tesla billionaires space travel attempts: I dont ever want a billion dollars, he said. If I had a billion dollars, my stupid a** would try to do something like going to the moon.

McLeod also rails against Republican donor Wallace Cheves and his efforts to build a casino on property bordering the town of Santee, telling him repeatedly to pack his bags.

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Sometimes he praises people. He seems to call former President Barack Obama a smooth talker and endorse former Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer for the U.S. Senate. (Bauer suspended his challenge to U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham last week.)

And he refers to his friend Bakari, former Democratic state Rep. Bakari Sellers, who he worked alongside to negotiate an $88 million settlement for victims of the 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church. He describes Sellers as someone who can kick (people) in the gums.

The only reason I didnt let Bakari do the peoples work is because I like a little heavy lifting, McLeod said.

Asked about the video Wednesday, Sellers said McLeod needs to explain it for the sake of his personal and professional relationships.

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I dont know if there is an explanation, Sellers told the Gazette. But thats on him.

In a bond hearing following his arrest, McLeods lawyer told a judge the erratic behavior stemmed from a mental health episode and exhaustion, The Post and Courier reported.

In her statement, Spain said the party offers McLeod compassion and prays he finds the mental health support he needs.

This is McLeods second bid for governor.

In the dashcam video, he referenced his previous run in 2010, saying a friend called him a class act  maybe the classiest act to ever grace [unintelligible]. But he followed that up by noting the campaign didnt last long, saying I got my a** checked in a hurry.

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He dropped out of that race four months before the Democratic primary, endorsing former state Sen. Vincent Sheheen, D-Camden.

Editors note: This article was updated Thursday, Aug. 14, with a response from U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace.
(Columbia County Spotlight)  Nearly three months after an ATV crash killed a Scappoose High School student, Scappoose school board Vice Chair Branda Jurasek has formally resigned.

Her letter, submitted to the board chair Aug. 7, cites a desire to prevent her continued presence from becoming a further source of division within the community.

I understand that people are in pain and looking for answers. But this rush to judgment  fueled by social media and encouraged by people who dont know us  has created a firestorm that distracts from what really matters, Jurasek wrote. Im saddened by how quickly some in this town have turned on us, and Im concerned that the attention now falling on the school board is interfering with its work.

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The resignation follows mounting community pressure stemming from the May crash that killed 17-year-old Ava Crews. Crews was riding as a passenger in a side-by-side ATV that crashed while driven by another teen on Northwest Gillihan Road on Sauvie Island.

An open letter with hundreds of signatures was circulated in June, alleging that the party was held at Juraseks home and that there is a history of underage drinking occurring at the property. The letter asked the school district to conduct an investigation into Jurasek and issue a statement calling for her resignation. It also asks the Multnomah County District Attorney to explore criminal charges against Jurasek.

Read full story here.

The Portland Tribune and its parent company Carpenter Media Group are KOIN 6 News media partners

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
LAURENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) will hold a public information meeting regarding a bridge repair project on US 76 over the Reedy River in Laurens County.

The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Laurens County Public Library, located at 1017 West Main Street. SCDOT representatives will be present to discuss the proposed project with community members.

Officials said the meeting provides an opportunity for residents to learn more about the bridge repair project and voice their opinions.

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The meeting will be a drop-in format, meaning there will be no formal presentation.

Public comments on the bridge repair project will be accepted through September 10, 2025. Interested individuals can visit the project portal at https://projectportal.scdot.org/D2US76 for more information.

For more information about proposed SCDOT projects, visit the public involvement meeting webpage.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Mesa Public Schools students could soon have another test to prepare for  one that assesses their endurance, core strength and agility.

The Presidential Fitness Test is coming back to public schools  although its unclear when under an executive order signed recently by President Trump.

Mesa Public Schools is awaiting guidance and details, said district spokeswoman Jennifer Snyder, who declined to comment on the districts reaction to the order.

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As it is in the district, physical education is required for K-6 students with seventh-graders and eighth-graders each having one semester of gym class.

Additionally, two semesters of elective physical education in high school are mandated for graduation, Snyder said.

Trump claimed in his executive order that Americas health and physical fitness is declining.

For far too long the physical and mental health of the American People have been neglected, said Trump, who is well known for his fondness for MacDonalds. Rates of obesity, chronic disease, inactivity, and poor nutrition are at crisis levels, particularly among our children. These trends weaken our economy, military readiness, academic performance and national morale.

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Approximately one in five U.S. children and adolescents are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2024.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services, will administer the test.

The test was established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. According to Harvard Medical School, it was adjusted over the years but generally consisted of five parts  a 1-mile run, pull-ups or push-ups, sit-ups, sit-and-reach and a shuttle run, consisting of running back and forth between two points.

Its unclear what exercises will be required but Trump also is reinstating awards for students who scored at or above the 85th percentile on the test.

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The Obama administration in 2012 replaced the test with a new initiative, which emphasized student health, goal setting and personal progress.

News organization Education Week on its Facebook page asked people for their memories of taking the Presidential Fitness Test. Some said they won awards, such as Jody Sandru.I won the award in sixth grade, Sandru wrote. I had to work so hard to do the pull ups. My parents bought a chin up bar and I practiced every day.

But a majority of the commenters didnt look back with fond memories.

In elementary school I already knew there was no point in trying, wrote Heather Kenyon-Haff. Unless you were an athlete you werent going to do well. And there wasnt going to be a worthwhile reward or anything. Who flex arm hangs anyway?

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Karla Moosman said that the test took every trace of fun out of physical education while Beth Foster said that almost 50 years later she still hates volleyball after being relegated to playing it in PE for scoring below a certain threshold in the test.

And Elizabeth Wetmore English said as a sixth-grader she ended up in a doctors office with swollen intestines from doing too many sit-ups and missed a week of school.

Maricopa County School Superintendent Shelli Boggs applauded the reinstatement of the Presidential Fitness Test.

Now is the time to reverse course and bring back programs that instill confidence, discipline, and a lifelong commitment to wellness, the Republican Boggs said in a released statement. She noted that the test complemented Kennedys mission to remove ultra-processed foods from classrooms.

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Together, these efforts represent a much-needed return to common sense prioritizing the well-being of our children through real food and an active lifestyle, Boggs continued. Our students deserve better, and I am proud to support policies that put their health and future first.

Republican state schools chief Tom Horne also supports the tests return.

I consider myself a health nut and I have always advocated for students to do more physical exercise, Horne said in a statement. The health benefits are obvious, and healthy children do better academically. I am very pleased to see the Presidential Fitness Test restored.

Last year, Horne announced a partnership with media personality Dr. Mehmet Ozs nonprofit HealthCorps initiative and the state Department of Education.

The partnership provides for more educational programming, leadership experiences and service learning related to student health, wellness and career development in the health care field, Horne said.
Los Angeles public schools are opening Thursday for the new academic year confronting an intense and historically unique moment: They will be operating in opposition to the federal government's immigration raids and have set in motion aggressive moves to protect children and their immigrant parents.

School police and officers from several municipal forces will patrol near some 100 schools, setting up "safe zones" in heavily Latino neighborhoods, with a special concentration at high schools where older Latino students are walking to campus. Bus routes are being changed to better serve areas with immigrant families so children can get to school with less exposure to immigration agents.

Community volunteers will join district staff and contractors to serve as scouts  alerting campuses of nearby enforcement actions so schools can be locked down as warranted and parents and others in the school community can be quickly notified via email and text.

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L.A. Mayor Karen Bass spoke about "how profound this moment is in U.S. history" during a Monday news conference with local officials.

"Here you have an entire array of elected officials, appointed officials, education leaders, people committed to our children, and we are gathered here today to talk about protecting our children from the federal government," Bass said.

L.A. schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho said recently that the nation's second-largest school system will oppose "any entity, at any level, that seeks to interfere with the educational process of our children. We are standing on the right side of the Constitution, and years from now, I guarantee you, we will have stood on the right side of history. We know that."

High school boy mistakenly handcuffed

The worries among school officials and parents are not without cause.

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On Monday federal agents reportedly drew their guns on a 15-year-old boy and handcuffed him outside Arleta High School. The confrontation ended with de-escalation. Family members persuaded federal agents that the boy  who is disabled  was not the person they were looking for, Carvalho said.

The situation was largely resolved by the time the school principal realized what was going on and rushed out to assist. School police also arrived and scooped up unspent bullets dropped on the ground by the agents, Carvalho said.

A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Tuesday that Arleta High was not being targeted. Instead agents were conducting "a targeted operation" on a "criminal illegal alien," they described as "a Salvadoran national and suspected MS-13 pledge with prior criminal convictions in the broader vicinity of Arleta.

At a Tuesday White House briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, responded to a question that referenced the L.A. Times reporting about the incident.

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I'll have to look into the veracity of that report," Leavitt said. "I read the L.A. Times almost every single day, and they are notorious for misleading the public... This administration wants to ensure that all school children across the country, in every city, from Los Angeles to D.C., can go to school safely."

LAUSD will oppose "any entity, at any level, that seeks to interfere with the educational process of our children," said Supt. Alberto Carvalho recently. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

Read more: Texas, Florida hit with far more ICE arrests than California. But that's not the whole story

School communities in fear

The incident outside Arleta High is among the ongoing confrontations across the region that have provoked public protests and prompted the Trump administration in June to deploy troops to Los Angeles. Enforcement actions have included masked agents arresting people at parking lots, in parks, on sidewalks and next to bus stops.

Litigation, including a temporary restraining order, appears to have slowed down local immigration raids, but federal officials have strongly affirmed that they have not stopped.

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Trump administration policy is that no location  including a school  is off limits for enforcement actions in his drive to deport at least 1 million immigrants a year.

People in our country illegally can self-deport the easy way, or they can get deported the hard way. And thats not pleasant, Trump said in a video posted to a White House social account.

"A big part of it is to create the sense of fear so people will self-deport," said Jimmy Gomez, a Trump critic and Democratic member of Congress representing Los Angeles.

The ripple effect is that school communities are experiencing fear and trauma, worried that agents will descend on or near campuses.

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Most in the state's public school systems, including in L.A. Unified have embraced a counter mission, protecting the right of children  regardless of immigration status  to a public education. That right to an education is, so far, protected by past U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

For most school officials up and down the state, a necessary corollary to that right is safeguarding students' guardians and close relatives.

On Tuesday, 30 school board members from L.A. County  which has 80 school districts  convened in Hawthorne to emphasize their own focus on protecting immigrant families.

"We're about to welcome students back to schools, but we're very concerned that these fears and anxieties may potentially have an impact for students not wanting to come back," said Lynwood Unified school board member Alma Castro, an organizer of the event.

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She called her district a "safe haven." Among other measures, her district has trained staff to "restrict the sharing of any student files, any student information, and there's been some work with thinking about our facilities to ensure that we have campuses that are closed off, that people can't just walk in."

L.A. Unified, along with other school districts, has embraced a mission to protect the right of children  regardless of immigration status  to a public education. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

Protecting immigrant families

L.A. Unified, with about 400,000 students, has been layering on protections for months, recently working to incorporate ideas advocated by the teachers union and immigrant-rights groups.

A major ongoing effort is building safe-passage networks one, two and three blocks out from a campus. Participants include paid outside groups, district employees and volunteer activists. School police  though diminished in numbers due to staffing cuts  are to patrol sensitive areas and are on call to move quickly to where situations arise. Some anti-police activists want the protective mission accomplished without any role for school police.

A safe-passage presence has expanded from 40 schools last year to at least 100 this year, among about 1,000 campuses total, Carvalho said.

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"It is virtually impossible, considering the size of our community, to ensure that we have one caring, compassionate individual in every street corner in every street," Carvalho said. "But we are deploying resources at a level never before seen in our district."

Other various efforts include:



Starting a task force to coordinate safe passage zones with local cities

Setting up a donor-supported compassion fund to help families with legal and other costs

Coordinating food aid for families in hiding

Providing legal referrals

Contacting more than 10,000 families to encourage them to send children to schools

Providing information about online schooling options

Distributing a "family preparedness" guide

Carvalho and leaders of other school districts reiterated that K-12 campuses and anything related to schooling, such as a school bus or a graduation ceremony, will be off limits to immigration agents unless they have a valid judicial warrant for a specific individual  which has been rare.

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"We do not know what the enrollment will be like," Carvalho said. "We know many parents may have already left our community. They may have self-deported... We hope that through our communication efforts, our awareness efforts, information and the direct counseling with students and parents, that we'll be able to provide stable attendance for kids in our community."

Reason to be afraid

Mary, a Los Angeles mother of three without legal status, was terrified, but more or less knew what to do when immigration agents came to her door twice in May for a "wellness check" on her children: She did not let them in to her home. She did not step outside.

And, eventually, the agents  at least eight of them who arrived with at least three vehicles  left.

Mary had learned about what to do in this situation from her Los Angeles public school.

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Mary, who requested that her full name not be used, has three children, one of whom attends an Alliance College-Ready charter school, a network of 26 privately operated public schools.

Like L.A. Unified, Alliance has trained staff on the legal rights of immigrants and also trained parents about how to handle encounters with immigration agents and where to go for help.

Alliance largely serves low-income, Latino communities and the immigration raids affected attendance in the school last year. Normally, attendance runs about 90% at the end of their school year. This June, average daily attendance at 14 Alliance high schools had dipped below 80%. Six fell below 70% and one dropped as low as 57.5%.

Alliance also attempted to gather deportation data. Nine families responded in a school network that enrolls about 13,000. In two cases, students were deported; three other students had family members deported; one student and a sibling were in a family that self-deported; one student was detained; two families reported facing deportation proceedings.

While these numbers are small, the reports are more than enough to heighten fear within the community. And some families may have declined to be candid about their circumstances.

"What's happening now is that no one is safe anywhere, not even in your home, at work, outside, taking a stroll," L.A. school board member Rocio Rivas said in an interview.

Still, Rivas is encouraging families to send children to school, which she considers safer than other places.

Alliance is focusing heavily on mental-health support and also arranging carpools to and from school  in which the driver is a U.S. citizen, said Omar Reyes, a superintendent of instruction at the Alliance charter group.

Carvalho, a onetime undocumented immigrant himself, said that students deserve a traditional and joyous first day followed by a school year without trauma.

Children, he said, "inherently deserve dignity, humanity, love, empathy, compassion and great education.

Times staff writer Andrea Castillo contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) declared on Wednesday that Democrats will not go along with a potential request by President Trump to extend federal control of the Washington, D.C., police department and deployment of the National Guard in the District.

Trump can unilaterally control the department for up to 30 days, but any extension beyond that period is up to Congress, meaning it would require the support of Senate Democrats. Schumer made clear in an interview on Wednesday that wouldnt happen.

No fing way, Schumer told host Aaron Parnas.

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Well fight him tooth and nail.  He needs to get Congress to approve it, and not only are we not going to approve it, but there are some Republicans who dont like either.

This is, again, just a distraction. Hes afraid of Epstein, Schumer continued, referring to the push to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who died awaiting federal trial on sex trafficking charges. Hes afraid of all that, and we are not going to give up on Epstein.

Trump on Wednesday said that he is seeking a long-term extension of the federalization of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

If its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress, Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center. But we expect to be before Congress very quickly.

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He added that he plans to push for congressional backing of a crime bill that would pertain initially to D.C. but ultimately become a very positive example for other cities.

Both Maryland senators on Wednesday also told Semafor that they will not support any further plan to federalize the MPD.

What Donald Trump is doing is, in some ways, a dress rehearsal for going after others around the country. And I think we need to stop this  certainly by the end of the 30 days, said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.). This should never have started, so I definitely want to make sure it doesnt continue.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Farmland left idle and dormant is creating an unhealthy dust problem in California.

Over 1 million acres of fallow farmland are contributing to the growing dust, which has health and climate implications in the state's Central Valley.

What's happening?

According to the University of California, Merced, approximately 77% of fallowed land in California is connected to 88% of the human-caused dust events.

UC Merced professors studied this phenomenon and published their findings in the journal Communications Earth & Environment.

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The issue is especially prevalent in Fresno, Kern, and King counties, where corn, wheat, and cotton fields are routinely fallowed. Here, unplanted farm fields are susceptible to wind erosion, resulting in dust that is often contaminated with chemicals and pathogens.

This effect is linked to human respiratory diseases and even death. Certain fungal diseases spread through dust and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

The particulate matter may contribute to everything from cardiovascular issues to dementia, as well as traffic fatalities due to reduced visibility on roads.

California's Central Valley is a significant source of dust, as it is a major agricultural production region in the U.S.

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Researchers are studying the impacts of dust on local snowmelt and water resources.

"Because our study points to fallowed or idled farmlands as a dominant contributor, that may change how we estimate overall dust impact," said one of the researchers, Adeyemi Adebiyi.

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.

Why is farmland dust significant?

Unfarmed lands have been expanding in recent years due to limited water resources and economic decisions. The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act has also limited the amount of water that farmers can use annually.

When these lands remain exposed and uncultivated, they produce more dust, which impacts the environment and surrounding communities. Increased dust activity is affecting the health of people and natural ecosystems.

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More dust in our atmosphere creates ripple effects and hinders plant growth. Overmining, overgrazing, and extended agricultural breaks are creating conditions where degrading land is fueling our changing climate and threatening the global food supply.

What's being done to control harmful dust?

In the study, the UC Merced researchers recommended that farmers plant cover crops and ground cover plants to reduce dust and improve soil health. They also suggested land transitions to use fallowed farmlands for habitats and renewable energy.

To mitigate public health risks and regional climate change associated with precipitation and snowmelt, agricultural practices in the Central Valley must shift.

Fortunately, there are many natural solutions to address air pollution issues, like the increase in dust.

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Some communities have explored organic and water-based dust suppressants containing biodegradable surfactants to address dust issues.

Preventing the spread of dust may also involve reducing vehicle exhaust fumes, maintaining proactive air quality monitoring, and promoting sustainable land use.

Increasing dust is one of the many critical climate issues affecting California's Central Valley and other agricultural regions worldwide.

By raising awareness of the issue and volunteering your time and efforts, you can take local action in your community to address dust pollution and preserve more breathable air for everyone.

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 new study has highlighted a concerning knock-on effect of the growing plastic crisis around the world.

What's happening?

The researchers looked across the entire lifecycle of plastics  from extraction of raw materials, to production/manufacture, collection, and disposal  to investigate the ways that they may influence antimicrobial resistance, or the evolution of germs like bacteria and fungi to resist the drugs designed to kill them.

They found such interplays in each step, which they summarized for Phys.org.

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For instance, during the production and manufacturing stage, the use of plastic additives may drive selection for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). And during use, collection, or disposal, plastics can transport resistant biofilms into clinical, agricultural, or aquatic settings.

However, the plastics-AMR relationship can go both ways, according to co-author Pennie Lindeque.

"AMR may also be an inadvertent driver of plastic production, use, and pollution," she stated. "For example, the demand for single-use plastics to ensure sterility in clinics could increase plastic waste. Furthermore, microbial pandemics, like COVID-19, have increased single-use plastic PPE, with vast quantities of waste resulting from discarded masks and gloves."

Why is this study important?

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern in the scientific community.

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"In 2019, there were an estimated 4.95 million deaths worldwide associated with bacterial AMR, with drug-resistant infections predicted to become the world's primary cause of death by 2050, if left unchecked," the researchers warned in their Phys.org summary.

AMR stands to become even more of a threat as the planet continues to overheat, they added.

This is not the first time scientists have found a link between plastics and antimicrobial resistance.

For instance, one recent study found that microplastics may contribute to antibiotic resistance, a specific type of AMR where bacteria change to resist antibiotics that used to effectively treat them.

What's being done about the plastics plague?

There are a number of ways that you can reduce your consumption of plastics in your day-to-day life, including using reusable shopping bags at the supermarket, investing in a reusable water bottle, bringing your own to-go containers when eating out, and ditching single-use coffee products.

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Some restaurants are making it easier for diners to avoid single-use plastics when they dine out by changing up their cutlery. For instance, one burger joint is offering straws made out of gluten-free pasta.

Meanwhile, a number of governments are implementing different types of plastic bans to help solve the issue. One such policy in New Zealand bars the use of plastic shopping bags and plastic produce bags nationwide.

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.




Rajasthan Minister Kirodi Lal Meena on Wednesday said that many mishaps have happened at that spot in Dausa where a pick-up truck collided with a trailer truck, killing 11 people. Meena requested the Centre's support in reconstructing the spot. "Such a big incident is very rare... Many accidents happen at the spot where this accident happened. We demand that the central government give some amount so this place can be reconstructed," Kirodi Lal Meena told ANI. He thanked the district administration and doctors for attending to the people injured in the accident. The Rajasthan Minister said, "Doctors are keenly attending to the injured. The Chief Minister has taken cognisance. I thank the district administration and doctors for properly attending to the injured people." Earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of the deceased in the road accident in Rajasthan's Dausa. "Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expresses grief over the road accident in Dausa, Rajasthan. He expresses condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured. Instructions have been given to the officials to coordinate with the officials of the Rajasthan government," UP CMO said in a statement. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed grief over the mishap and ordered prompt and proper treatment for the injured. Sharing an X post, CM Sharma wrote, "The news of loss of life in a horrific road accident in Dausa is extremely tragic. The district administration has been directed to ensure prompt and proper treatment for the injured. May God grant a place at His divine feet to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured." Eleven people from Uttar Pradesh's Etah died in the accident as a pick-up truck carrying devotees from Khatu Shyam Temple collided with a trailer truck near Bapi village, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ravi Prakash Sharma said. DSP Sharma told ANI, "The total death count of the accident between a passenger pick-up and a trailer truck near Bapi now lies at 11 after one person admitted to the hospital succumbed to their injuries." (ANI)
FIRST ON FOX: Law enforcement officials in Washington, D.C., have arrested more than 100 people since Aug. 7, Fox Digital has learned, as President Donald Trump cracks down on crime in the city.

Law enforcement officials have arrested a total of 103 individuals as of Wednesday morning since Aug. 7, which includes 43 who were arrested Tuesday, a White House official told Fox Digital Wednesday morning. The arrests are part of Trumps March executive order, which established the Making DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force, ahead of Trump's Monday announcement federalizing the D.C. police department.

"President Trumps bold leadership is quickly making our nations capital safer," White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told Fox Digital. "In less than one week, over 100 violent criminals have already been arrested and taken off of the streets in Washington, D.C. President Trump is delivering on his campaign promise to clean up this city and restore American Greatness to our cherished capital."

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Trump announced Monday that he was federalizing the local police department under section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows the president to assume emergency control of the capital's police force for 30 days.

The White House reported there were roughly 30 National Guard troops on the ground Tuesday evening, which is expected to dramatically increase on Wednesday evening, Fox Digital learned. The crime crackdown operation is expected to transition to a 24/7 operating status, breaking from its previous focus of patrolling the nation's capital on night, the White House said.

Fbi Director Kash Patel Backs Trump's Dc Police Takeover: 'When You Let Good Cops Be Cops, They Deliver'

Read On The Fox News App

Members of the National Guard facilitate entries at the staging area of local and federal law enforcement agencies inside the U.S. Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility on August 12, 2025, in Washington.

Hundreds of National Guard members have since converged on the nation's capital, as well as federal law enforcement departments such as the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Capitol Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisting with Trump's law and order crackdown and sweeps of the city.

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Tuesday's sweep of the city included 1,450 law enforcement participants, according to the White House, including roughly 30 National Guard troops and 750 uniformed D.C. police officers.

Tuesday's arrests included: one arrested on suspected homicide, seven related to narcotics charges, 33 for alleged firearm offenses, 10 related to warrants, as well as the arrests of 23 illegal immigrants. Law enforcement recovered a total of 24 firearms on Tuesday, according to the White House.

The first phase of the crime crackdown Monday resulted in 23 arrests, FBI Director Kash Patel revealed on X Tuesday.

"On the first big push of FBI supporting @Potus @realDonaldTrump initiative to make DC safe again, FBI reported 10 arrests with partners," the director wrote on X.

Department of Homeland Security and U.S. marshal personnel perform a traffic stop on a individual allegedly with expired tags and no driver's license on Aug. 12, 2025, in Washington.

"These are just a few examples  we are just getting started," Patel continued. "Federal partners joined local police and arrested 23 in total."



"When you let good cops be cops they can clean up our streets and do it fast," he said. "More to come. Your nations Capital WILL be safe again."

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The nation's capital in the following years has been rocked by shootings that have left innocent children shot and dead, a trend of juveniles committing carjackings that have turned deadly in some cases, shoplifting crimes and attacks on government employees, summer interns and others, including the fatal shooting of 21-year-old congressional intern, Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, in June.

Trump Activates National Guard Troops To Address Totally Out Of Control Crime In Washington

National Guard vehicles seen stationed in Washington D.C., on Tuesday amid the Trump administrations surge to combat crime in the capital.

Trump had threatened to federalize the D.C. police department in recent weeks, citing a spate of high-profile crimes that have left locals and visitors to the city dead or seriously injured, such as Tarpinian-Jachym's killing, the fatal shooting of a pair of Israeli embassy staffers in May, and a brutal attack on a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer earlier in August.

"Our capital city has been overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people," Trump said Monday. "And we're not going to let it happen anymore. We're not going to take it."

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Democrat lawmakers and local leaders have slammed Trump over the move, arguing crime has fallen in recent years following the wildly violent crime trends of 2020 that rocked cities nationwide.

White House Launches Federal Security Blitz As President Vows To End Dc 'Crime Plague'

Trump described the federalization of the police as "Liberation Day in D.C.," declaring, "We're going to take our capital back."

"We're taking it back under the authority vested in me as the president of the United States, I'm officially invoking section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act," he said Monday. "You know what that is. And placing the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control.  In addition, I'm deploying the National Guard to help reestablish law, order and public safety in Washington, D.C. And they're going to be allowed to do their job properly."





Original article source: SCOOP: Trump's newest DC crime crackdown yields more than 100 arrests
Stroke patients in Scotland are facing Russian roulette over access to a life-saving treatment compared with those in the rest of the UK, it has been alleged.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) showed only 212 of 9,625 Scots who had an ischaemic stroke last year were given a thrombectomy, where a blood clot is surgically removed from an artery.

The total is up from 153 in 2023 and 112 in 2022, but Public Health Scotland noted it still represents only 2.2 per cent of the total number of people who had an ischaemic stroke in 2024.

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The Stroke Association in Scotland said this meant less than a fifth of eligible patients received the treatment, adding that rates for this elsewhere in the UK are more than double that in Scotland.

Round-the-clock service promised years ago

John Watson, the associate director, called for action, noting that a Scotland-wide, round-the-clock thrombectomy service was promised years ago.

Mr Watson said: Stroke is the third biggest killer in Scotland and the leading cause of complex adult disability. But the latest official figures show the ongoing failure of health boards to make stroke the priority it needs to be.

The failure is most striking in thrombectomy, a life-saving, life-changing treatment that should be a normal part of any modern healthcare system.

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He added: A Scotland-wide, round-the-clock thrombectomy service was promised years ago, yet less than a fifth of eligible patients get the intervention that could transform their lives. The thrombectomy rate elsewhere in the UK is more than double that in Scotland.

Dr Matthew Lambert, the national clinical lead for stroke, said the report this year shows a mixed bag of delivery of stroke care.

Dr Lambert added: There are areas of excellent or significantly improved stroke care delivery, but frustratingly there remains significant variation in delivery between different boards and hospitals, and also between different hours of the day and days of the week.

The number of people who suffered a stroke in Scotland rose to 11,341 in 2024, up from 11,137 the previous year.

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The PHS data also showed 1,045 patients in Scotland  10.8 per cent of cases of ischaemic strokes  received thrombolysis in 2024.

This treatment sees patients given a clot-bursting medication that restores blood flow in vessels that had been blocked. The treatment rate was 11.3 per cent in the previous year.

Stephen Kerr, a Tory MSP, wrote to Neil Gray, the SNP Health Secretary, demanding a clear commitment to implementing a full 24/7 thrombectomy services across Scotland by the end of the next parliamentary session.

He also called for the mandatory adoption of a broader assessment tool in all clinical and emergency settings to improve stroke detection.

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, the Scottish Tories shadow health secretary, said: We know that strokes are one of Scotlands biggest killers  yet far too many patients are being denied the urgent care required in their time of need.

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Thrombectomy treatment can save lives when delivered quickly, but under the SNP only a fraction of patients are getting it.

Dame Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labours health spokeswoman, said: No-one can choose when they have a stroke, but under the SNP Scots face a Russian roulette when it comes to treatment.

A quick intervention could be the difference between living independently or struggling with life-changing disabilities  Scottish stroke survivors should have the same access to modern technology as those in England.

Jenni Minto, the SNPs Public Health Minister, the Scottish Government was focused on ensuring people who have had a stroke receive the best possible care as quickly as possible to enable them to live longer, healthier and more independent lives.

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She added: We know there is more to do but it is pleasing to see a rise in the number of patients receiving thrombectomy treatment. We will continue work towards increasing access to these procedures.

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Three weeks after a crash that took the lives of two boaters on the upper Niagara River, repair crews were in the water on Tuesday to assess the extent of the damage done to the Niagara Falls Water Boards main intake.

At the same time, New York State Park Police said they are continuing to review evidence and analyze data collected from the wreckage of the 35-foot, 2015 Scout Boat that slammed into the water intake in an effort to determine what may have caused the crash. Park police are also maintaining their search for the body of Jerome Williams, 66, of Buffalo, who was believed to have been piloting the boat at the time of the accident.

Falls Water Board Chair Richard Sirianni confirmed that a barge platform adjacent to the water intake on Tuesday was being used for staging by repair crews to make a comprehensive assessment of the crash damage.

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Theyve got divers in the water and they are checking it out all the way down to see whats there, Sirianni said.

In the days immediately after the crash, Sirianni said the impact of the boat striking the intake had done some minor damage, but had not affected the operation of the intake or water distribution in the city.

It did some damage to a ladder (used to service the water intake), so well need to replace that, Sirianni said at the time. But it has not affected the operation of the intake.

The water board chair also confirmed at that time that contractors had checked and replaced the warning lights on the intake just a few weeks ago. He said that U.S. Coast Guard investigators told the Water Board that the lights were working on the night of the accident.

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State Park Police Capt. Christopher Rola said that investigators with the Park Police Marine Bureau were still working on an accident reconstruction report on the crash. Rola said the reconstruction effort can be time-consuming because it involves the downloading and decoding of data taken from potentially multiple black boxes recovered from the boat.

Witnesses to the crash said the boat was traveling west on the upper river, just north of Navy Island, at around 9:40 p.m. on July 23, when it slammed into the water intake. The force of the crash sheared off a piece of the boat, leaving debris hanging from the intake.

The vessel was estimated to be traveling at more than 43 knots (50 mph) when it hit the concrete structure. Witnesses said the crash appeared to send Williams and his passenger, Natalie Sansivero, 46, of Grand Island, overboard and into the river.

The remains of the boat capsized and floated downriver to the New York Power Authoritys water intakes. The wreckage was lifted out of the water the next day.

At that time, divers from the Niagara County Sheriffs Office were able to search underneath the vessel, but did not locate any signs of the victims. Two days later, Sansiveros body was recovered near the shoreline, roughly one mile from where the accident occurred.
The Coast Guard has suspended its search for a missing 79-year-old kayaker who was last seen off the Washington coast on Monday.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River got a report at 6 p.m. for an overdue kayaker who had not been seen by her husband for the past hour after they got separated due to weather in the vicinity of Oyhut Bay.

Around 7:20 p.m., the Coast Guard found an overturned kayak matching the description of the one belonging to the missing woman.

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However, the woman was not found with the kayak.

Coast Guard crews searched until 11:30 p.m. Multiple agencies, including Grays Harbor Fire and Police Department, Grays Harbor County Sheriff, Ocean Shores Police, and Washington State Parks, assisted with the search.

Crews began searching again on Tuesday at first light, but there were still no signs of her throughout the day.

The search was suspended on Tuesday.

Suspending a search is never a decision we make lightly, said Lt. Cmdr. Jacquilne Hunnicutt, search and rescue mission coordinator. We work methodically with our partners, using every available resource, until all reasonable chances of rescue have been exhausted. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones during this difficult time.
This story was originally posted to MyNorthwest.com

Seattle homes are getting more expensive.

Seattle home prices were up 10% in June 2025 compared to last year, according to Redfin  the highest in the past five years.

The median sale price of a home in Seattle was $935,000 in June, while the month before it was $895,000.

Over the past few years, median sale prices tended to drop around January and pick back up during the summer, as shown on Redfins chart from 2021 to 2025. The lowest median home prices seen during that period were in January 2022.

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Redfin also recorded the most searched areas to move to and from Seattle. The results showed thousands of people in Spokane, San Francisco, and Houston researched a move to Seattle from May 2025 to July 2025. Meanwhile, thousands of people also looked into moving away from Seattle to Bellingham, Portland, and Phoenix during the same period.

Another staggering fact, while nearly 8.5% of U.S. homes were worth $1 million or more in 2024, that number was 34.40% in Seattle, according to Redfin.

Why are Seattle home prices rising?

While homes are getting more expensive, John Manning, managing broker for REMAX Gateway, told KIRO Newsradio there are more homes available than there were in 2015.

However, an increase in Seattle workers has driven up prices.

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For multiple years, there have not been enough homes to satisfy buyer demand, he said.

Manning urged potential buyers not to wait, as he doesnt see prices dropping significantly anytime soon.

Contributing: Heather Bosch, KIRO Newsradio

Follow Julia Dallas on X. Read her stories here. Submit news tips here.
The Brief

Philadelphia police have arrested 21-year-old Daquan Brown in connection with a mass shooting that left three people dead, and nine others injured in Grays Ferry last month.

An active arrest warrant has been issued for 24-year-old Christopher Battle in connection with the deadly shooting.

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334 or submit an anonymous tip by calling 215-686-TIPS.

PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia police have arrested a second suspect in connection with the deadly mass shooting that occurred in Grays Ferry over the Fourth of July weekend.

What we know

On Tuesday, members of the SWAT Unit and Homicide detectives executed a search warrant ata home on the 1500 block of South Morston Street.

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They located 21-year-old Daquan Brown, who was taken into custody without incident.

Brown will be charged with murder, attempted murder, violations of the Uniform Firearms Act (VUFA) and multiple related offenses in connection with the deadly mass shooting.

Daquan Brown is charged with murder and other crimes in a mass shooting in Grays Ferry.

The shooting took place on July 7 on South Etting Street, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to nine others.

Police report that at least 13 guns were fired during the incident, which began when someone shot into the air.

Last week, police arrested Terrell Frazier, 22, who is alleged to be one of the shooters.

What's next

Authorities are still searching for a third suspect, 24-year-old Christopher Battle.

What you can do

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334 or submit an anonymous tip by calling 215-686-TIPS.

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A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

The backstory

On Monday, July 7, at around 12:57 a.m., Philly officers responded to a radio call reporting a person with a gun on the 1500 block of S. Etting Street.

Upon arrival, officers discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

Unfortunately, three people were pronounced dead shortly after the incident.

Zahir Wylie, 23, suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and was pronounced dead at 1:30 a.m.

Jason Reese, 19, sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at 1:31 a.m.

Azir Harris, 24, suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the back and was pronounced dead at 2:16 a.m.

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A GoFundMe was set-up to help the Harris family with Azirs funeral, which happened last month, along with their living expenses.

Nine additional victims sustained various gunshot wounds.

A 21-year-old male was shot in the buttocks and ankle.

A 17-year-old male and a 24-year-old male were each shot in the left arm.

Another 19-year-old male also suffered a gunshot wound to the left arm.

A 23-year-old female sustained wounds to her left elbow, left thigh, and right calf.

A 15-year-old female and an 18-year-old male were also shot, though their specific injuries are currently unknown.

Another 17-year-old male, suffered a gunshot wound to the left arm.

A 19-year-old male sustained two gunshot wounds to the head. He was initially taken to Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia before being transferred to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he remains in critical condition.

Dig deeper

Investigators say they are still working to identify and locate a number of suspects after they say a total of 13 guns were fired at the scene that night. More than 140 pieces of ballistic evidence were recovered at the scene.

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Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore says police now believe the shooting was a case of contagious gunfire and stemmed from one person discharging a firearm at random - perhaps firing into the sky. He says police have no idea what the suspects firing the 12 other guns were firing at, and that they did not appear to be firing at anyone or anything in particular.

"There was no opposing party. Theyre shooting among themselves really recklessly and carelessly, and it caused all this damage in this case," Vanore said. "Its something were working towards getting to the bottom of in identifying every single person that was either out there carrying a gun illegally or firing that gun as part of this case.

During last Thursdays press conference, Vanore revealed that there was a social media-related gathering on the same block of Etting Street on Saturday July 5. Police were called to disperse a crowd of 100 to 200 people.

This is an ongoing investigation.

The Source

The information in this story is from Philadelphia police.
The following is a listing of all home transfers in the New Brunswick area reported from Aug. 4 to Aug. 10. There were 1 transactions posted during this time. During this period, the median sale for the area was a 1,311-square-foot home on Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick that sold for $435,000.

New Brunswick

20 Livingston Ave. $435,000, 1,311 square feet, $332 per square-foot

Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
The following is a listing of all home transfers in East Brunswick reported from Aug. 4 to Aug. 10. There were 2 transactions posted during this time. During this period, the median sale for the area was a 2,433-square-foot home on Timber Road in East Brunswick that sold for $890,000.

8 Churchill Road. $750,000, 2,073 square feet, $362 per square-foot

18 Timber Road. $890,000, 2,433 square feet, $366 per square-foot

Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
DES MOINES, Iowa  United States Senator Joni Ernst (R) has been holding off this summer on officially announcing if she will be seeking a third term in the United States Senate.

Sen. Ernst was at the Iowa Pork Producers Tent on Tuesday morning on the state fairgrounds. She was flipping porkchops with Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin.

After she was done searing meat in the Iowa summer heat, she talked with members of the media about when her decision would be given.

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Well, I will tell you, no announcement today, but here in the next several weeks well have an announcement, said Ernst.

Single-day record for eggs on a stick served at Iowa State Fair broken

She was asked a follow up on what the timeline would look like specifically, with a lot of Iowa Democrats in the statehouse seeking that partys nomination for her seat.

Good for them, I will say that . Im not going to tell you what day but less than a month away (her announcement). But when we see these Democrats getting, you know, what theyre trying to get there name out there. But they cannot deny the fabulous agenda that President Trump has .. .we know that were going to make our military leaner, meaner, stronger than what we saw under President Biden. I mean, so many things are going well. So Democrats, good for you, glad theyre engaging. But you know what? Theyre not going to stand a chance.

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Ernst was also asked about approximately 200 employees at JBS meatpacking plant in Ottumwa losing their jobs a couple of weeks ago. The workers visas were revoked.

Well we know we need labor and we need more of our American workforce engaging in that labor. They need to participate. We do rely a lot of immigration and immigration visas. And so we need to go back and of course look at that, said Ernst. What we want to make sure that we have legal immigration into the United States. We need to modernize the visa program so it works better for the American farmer. And I do look forward to working on that with President Trump.

Administrator Loeffler also joined Sen. Ernst at the media availability after their time at the Iowa Pork Tent.

Iowa news

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U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst addressed members of the Westside Conservative Club at the Machine Shed Restaurant in Urbandale Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Robin Opsahl/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst has not officially said if she plans to run for reelection in 2026  but she told a GOP audience Wednesday that Democrats should bring it on in the 2026 midterm elections.

Every day we get a new Democratic member of the House or Senate that decides to run for this Senate seat  bring it on, Ernst, a Republican, said at the Westside Conservative Club in Urbandale. Bring it on, folks. Because I tell you, at the end of the day, Iowa is going to be red.

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The race for Iowas U.S. Senate seat has become a crowded over the past few months. There are five Democrats running to become their party nominee  state Rep. Josh Turek, D-Council Bluffs, who announced his race Tuesday, as well as Iowa Sen. Zach Wahls, D-Coralville; Rep. J.D. Scholten, D-Sioux City; Des Moines School Board Chair Jackie Norris and former Knoxville Chamber of Commerce Director Nathan Sage. Two Republicans, former state lawmaker Jim Carlin and Joshua Smith, a previous Libertarian candidate, have also announced their campaigns for the seat.

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But Ernst, who is serving her second term, has yet to say whether she plans to run for reelection. During her visit to the Iowa State Fair, over the weekend, she told reporters an announcement would be coming soon.

Some speculated that Ernst was considering retirement from Congress. While she raised more than her Democratic challengers who had entered the race in the second quarter Federal Election Commission filings, she raised less in the period than she had at this point in her 2020 reelection campaign. Politico also reported in July there were concerns among Senate Republicans that she would not run for reelection, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune telling a reporter he was doing everything I can to encourage her to run for reelection.

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In recent months, Ernst has faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Her town hall comment in May, well, we all are going to die, when responding to a person who shouted to her about Medicaid cuts in the budget reconciliation bill gained national attention and pushback. Among Republicans, she has been criticized for expressing concerns about U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during the nomination process, though she voted to confirm him.

Ernst touts cuts in taxes, spending

In addition to talking about the upcoming election season Wednesday, Ernst also celebrated some of the GOP wins since President Donald Trump was elected. Though she did not talk about Medicaid and SNAP provisions in the budget reconciliation law, she said provisions like updated reference prices for farmers and tax exemptions for overtime will help Iowa families, farms and businesses.

She also said the measure will provide a lot of tax relief for a heck of a lot of people across the United States.

Right here in Iowa, if we had not supported the one big beautiful bill, an average household here in Iowa would have seen their tax bill increase by $2,060. $2,060. We avoided that, Ernst said. Think about all the Democrats  they voted for a $2,000 tax increase for Iowans, and were not going to have that.

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Turek, in an interview Wednesday, said Ernsts support for measures like the budget reconciliation bill are one of the reason why many Iowans who have previously supported Republicans are looking to Democrats in the upcoming election.

In the urban areas and in the rural areas, we are getting turnouts like we havent seen, with a lot of buyers remorse, of people that have said, I voted for Trump, I voted for Ernst, but this is not what I signed up for  not for cuts to health care to poor kids and the disabled, not for cuts to food assistance, just to give billionaires tax breaks, Turek said.

In addition to highlighting tax cuts in the budget reconciliation bill, Ernst said her work to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government has come to pass through the rescissions bill, canceling previously approved federal funding for U.S. Agency for International Development and public broadcasting, as well as through the federal DOGE service.

Ernst said heading into 2025, she met with billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy as they prepared to lead the Department of Government Efficiency initiative in the Trump administration to discuss areas for savings in the federal government identified through work like her squeal awards.

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I was able to present them with an eight-page document that outlined $2 trillion of savings in our federal government, Ernst said. Now, trying to get to that $2 trillion mark is pretty darn hard. Weve got a lot of pushback coming from the Democrats and the unions that exist within federal government. So were running into a number of roadblocks, but we will continue to build upon that success.

Neither Ramaswamy, who is running for Ohio governor, nor Musk is still affiliated with the federal DOGE service, with Ernst lamenting the big, beautiful breakup between Trump and Musk. But she said we still are very committed to DOGE work in the United States Senate and in the House.

In addition to her statements signaling a campaign announcement, Ernst is scheduled to hold her annual Roast and Ride fundraiser Oct. 11, and hired a campaign manager in June.

Ernst said Republicans are going to rule the day in the 2026 election cycle, calling for GOP voters to vote and keep Iowa Republicans in power. Iowa has an all-Republican federal delegation, in addition to a GOP trifecta at the Statehouse.

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This is going to be a very big election year for us coming up in this next year, Ernst told the Westside Conservative Club members. So I am asking all of you, turn out, turn out, turn out.  After all of those choices have been made through the Republican primary, then we all come together as Iowa and support our Republican candidates, and we turn out in November, and we put the Democrats in their place. Because, let me tell you, I got a lot of years under my belt, and Ive got a lot of confidence, not just in me, but all of our candidates up and down the ticket.

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"Many municipal corporations across India seemed to have ordered that slaughterhouses and meat shops should be closed on 15th August. Unfortunately, @GHMCOnline has also made a similar order," Owaisi said in a post on X.

"This is callous and unconstitutional. What's the connection between eating meat and celebrating independence day? 99% of Telangana's people eat meat. These meat bans violate people's right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition & religion," he said.

Owaisi's remarks came as several municipalities have issued similar directives regarding the closure of meat shops and slaughterhouses during upcoming festivals.

On Tuesday, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation in Maharashtra announced a ban on the slaughter of animals and the sale of meat within city limits on August 15 and 20.

The closure on August 15 coincides with Gokul Ashtami, a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, while August 20 marks the beginning of 'Paryushan Parva,' a key Jain festival observed with fasting and prayers. The civic body warned of strict action against violations.

This follows a similar order by the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) in Thane district near Mumbai, which mandated the closure of meat shops on August 15. The Malegaon Municipal Corporation has issued a similar directive. (ANI)
(The Center Square) - Many of Pennsylvanias warehouses are already smart, using robotics and advanced technology to increase efficiency.

With new legislation in both chambers of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, the warehouses may soon become a little greener.

Over the last decade, demand for e-commerce has reshaped our economy, our logistics industry, and the physical landscape of the Commonwealth, Sens. Nikil Saval, D-Philadelphia, and Carolyn Comitta, D-West Chester, wrote in a memo introducing the bill.

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The development hasnt always been a welcome one, with communities objecting to the increase of traffic brought on by logistics operations. Neighbors complain about their appearance, the light and noise pollution they produce, and their impact on the environment.

Yet, demand from online shopping was enough to encourage the proliferation of warehouses which promised to employ individuals in the very same towns hit hardest by the shift away from local business. Even as automation, robotics, and AI reduce the demand for labor, jobs within the industry remain plentiful.

With tariffs, trade wars, and economic uncertainty, many see the warehouses as the physical reminder of an economic bubble poised to burst at any moment. Others see drone deliveries and advances in AI as indicators that the demand for convenience will only continue to grow.

In either case, the state has invested in hundreds of millions of square feet of flat-roofed monoliths. Renewable energy advocates like Saval and Comitta see the buildings as an opportunity to generate more energy from solar power.

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The senators legislation proposed Tuesday would incentivize warehouse operators to use their ample roof space for solar. It mirrors one put forward in the House by Rep. Joshua Seigel, D-Allentown in April. His bill was assigned to the Energy committee where it currently awaits consideration.

The bill would require new warehouses to be built solar-ready. It would provide tax credits for existing warehouses to retrofit their roofs to become solar-ready. The House bill requires a minimum 40% of roof space to be usable for solar. The Department of Environmental Protection would be responsible for overseeing the mandate, and companies could be fined up to $100,000 per violation.

Pennsylvanians are facing skyrocketing electricity costs because we are far too reliant on fossil fuels, said Patrick McDonnell, president & CEO of PennFuture, an environmental advocacy group working with legislators to advance the bills. This legislation will ensure that millions of square feet will be made available to clean energy that will diversify our grid, create jobs, and lower costs for residents. Warehouses and distribution centers can be part of a broader solution to our energy needs while providing these facilities with a potential revenue stream and this legislation ensures that those opportunities are not lost.
The Brief

Four senior citizens were shot at a Detroit apartment complex in a love triangle that turned into a violent shootout.

The shooting happened when a man in his 70s allegedly shot his romantic rival, a man in a wheelchair, at a barbecue.

The suspect was then shot by a woman in self-defense; all four people are in stable condition

DETROIT (FOX 2) - Four men and women who live at a Detroit senior citizen apartment complex are all recovering in the hospital after a love triangle that turned into a violent shootout at the apartment building.

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Detroit Police were called to the shooting at Sheridan Place Apartments in the 7500 block of East Jefferson Street, where officials said a loud party led to a shooting outside the complex.

However, with the light of a new day on Tuesday comes new details that the shooting had nothing to do with loud music next door  but was actually a love triangle. The shooting at a barbecue outside the complex when one man confronted another man in a wheelchair.

What we know

Reginal Ervin lives at Sheridan Plaza Apartments and says he's in the know on the comings and going at the complex.

"Ive been here six years. I know everything thats going on," he said. "(It was a) love triangle. He said he was gonna kill him and thats what he said he was going to do."

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According to Ervin and many other residents, one man was upset that his love interest, a 65-year-old woman  who they identify as Johnnie'  was dating a new man, a man in his 70s and in a wheelchair.

Neighbors said the suspected shooter, a man in his early 70s, took his gun and shot Johnnie's new boyfriend and two others

After the shooting, the suspect was tackled and dropped the gun. Johnnie then picked it up and then shot the man in self defense.

Ervin made it clear  he wasn't there.

"I dont mess around like that," he said.

He took us to the scene of the shooting, behind the apartment complex where we ran into other neighbors.

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Earnest Clark said they're not a particularly rowdy crowd.

"Were senior citizens. Were supposed to retire, were supposed to have a good time, drink our daiquiris," said Clark.

A senior citizen shooting at a Detroit apartment complex came in allegedly as a loud party. But instead, residents say it was a love triangle with one man targeting another, before being shot with his own gun.

In total, four people were shot and all are in stable condition. Ervin said even though they're not rowdy, there are other issues happening.

"Well, there are a whole lot of things going on here. Im surprised this is the first time you came," he said.

What we don't know

It's unknown who will be facing charges in connection to the shooting.

Whether it's loud music, a BBQ, or a love triangle, you cannot use a gun.

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Police said Johnnie acted in self-defense but she had

What they're saying

During an update late Monday night, Detroit Assistant Chief Arnold Williams said the shooting was ridiculous.

"This is a shooting so ridiculous in nature that you can't even explain it," said Williams. "We're having incidents again where people can't resolve common issues. You don't have to resort to a gun because somebody is playing loud music. It is just irrational. You are in your 70's, this should not be what's going on."

The Source

FOX 2 spoke with Detroit Police on Monday for information and went to the apartment complex on Tuesday for more details.
CANTON, S.D. (KELO)  A Lincoln County jury says Justin Rackley is responsible for the deaths of three people. Throughout the trial, family and friends of the victims packed the courtroom to hear witness testimony.

Tuesday, they finally heard the verdict they were hoping for.

UPDATE: Jury reaches guilty verdict in Lincoln County triple murder trial

A little more than a year after police found Michael Thompson, Kellie Reaves and Daniel Kemnitz dead in southwest Sioux Falls, a jury said Justin Rackley was responsible for their deaths.

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We truly feel that justice has been served and that the man that murdered our son, plus Mike and Kellie, has been found guilty, and for that, we are grateful, Daniel Kemnitzs mother, Jean Kemnitz said.

It was an emotional day inside the courtroom. The parents of Daniel Kemnitz have found themselves reflecting on the life their son lived.

Ive got so many good memories of he and I out hunting. He was my good buddy for hunting and fishing. He was good. He was a good kid, Daniel Kemnitzs father, Len Kemnitz said.

He was a remarkable person. He was a great big, huge teddy bear, Jean Kemnitz said.

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For them, the trial was grueling.

Its been emotional all week through the whole trial. Just hearing the testimonies, seeing the pictures, visiting with other other families. Its been a trying week, Len Kemnitz said.

Jordan: And then, what are your emotions now after the verdict?

Relief. Relief that its over and relieved that justice has been served, Len Kemnitz said.

It gives us a sense of closure that now we can start to heal and understand that this was a tragedy that happened and that our son is safely in the hands of our Lord, Jean Kemnitz said.

It gives me a sense of closure that this part of it is over with, but the grief still is there. Ill carry that, Len Kemnitz said.

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Along with their son, the Kemnitzs hope Michael Thompson and Kellie Reaves can be honored, too.

Just remember the good times instead of that tragic night. Go to remember them with joy and contentment and happiness, Jean Kemnitz said.

Rackley was also found guilty of two counts of aggravated assault, injuring two people who survived the shooting.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
DES MOINES, Iowa  The Iowa State Fair partnered with ChildServe to host the fourth annual sensory-friendly morning at the Iowa State Fair on Wednesday.

The morning events start at 8 a.m. and go until noon, featuring various fair favorites with sensory sensitivities in mind.

Iowa State Fairgoers react to number 2 national ranking

The state fair came to us four years ago and asked if we would like to partner on a sensory event, said Jordan Juhl Marcon with ChildServe. And we said of course, there are a lot of children that we serve that have sensory needs or other diagnoses that can benefit from this event. We turned down the sounds and the lights as much as possible to make this event welcoming for all families.

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It features two calming rooms for kids and their families to escape the crowds and have a place to cool down. There are also classics such as Little Lands on the Farm, opening an hour earlier for kids who have sensory sensitivities. Livestock barns will also feature events with a quieter space and dimmer lights.

Marcon said that before the sensory-friendly morning was offered, some families avoided the fair completely.

Families I often hear have never taken the chance to come to the fair before this event was possible, Marcon said. So they feel comfortable knowing that theyre amongst friends, people who understand and are there to help them and be supportive of whats going on that day.

ChildServe partners with other local businesses and organizations to put on sensory-friendly events. The Iowa Cubs host a sensory-friendly night at the ballpark, and they also partner with the Hawkeye Downs Santa Village.

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A full list of the morning events can be found here.

Iowa news

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BELGRADE (Reuters) -Supporters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) threw flares and firecrackers at anti-government protesters in Novi Sad on Wednesday evening, prompting police to intervene to end the standoff, a major escalation of nine-month-long protests in Serbia.

Daily protests countrywide in Serbia, following the deaths of 16 people, killed when a roof on a renovated railway station in Novi Sad collapsed last November, have rattled the popularity of populist President Aleksandar Vucic and SNS.

At a news conference late on Wednesday, Vucic, flanked by Interior Minister Ivica Dacic, said 16 police officers and around 60 SNS backers have been injured in Novi Sad. He also accused unidentified foreign powers of orchestrating riots and pledged arrests.

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"Persons who violated the law will be apprehended ... Tonight, we have averted a catastrophic scenario planned by someone from abroad," he said.

Reuters could not independently verify Vucic's claims.

Footage by private N1 TV showed flares and firecrackers being thrown at protesters in Novi Sad from the direction of the SNS offices. It also showed anti-government protesters, some with bloody faces, saying Vucic's backers used sticks and truncheons to attack them.

Opposition Move-Change movement said Vucic's loyalists have been responsible for the clashes.

"Attacks on people with pyrotechnic devices violate their right to life and protest," it said in a statement.

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In the capital city of Belgrade, police in full riot gear blocked anti-government protesters from approaching the area in a park near the parliament building where Vucic's supporters have been camping since March.

Elsewhere in Belgrade, anti-government protesters clashed with police who prevented them from approaching local SNS offices.

The protesters have blamed corruption for the Novi Sad railway roof collapse and have demanded early elections that they hope would remove Vucic and his party from power after 13 years.

Students, opposition, and anti-corruption watchdogs have accused Vucic and his allies of ties to organised crime, violence against rivals and curbing media freedoms, something they deny.

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On Wednesday evening, students who are leading the protests called supporters to protest in front of SNS offices in major cities in Serbia, including Belgrade, Novi Sad, Kragujevac, Cacak and Nis, after several protesters were injured in clashes with SNS in the town of Vrbas on Tuesday evening.

(Reporting by Ivana Sekularac and Aleksandar Vasovic; editing by Diane Craft)




NEED TO KNOW

Alexander Lee Rogers was wanted for murder and attempted murder in Washington state

Rogers is accused of fatally stabbing a woman and her brother-in-law who had hired him as a handyman

He was on the run for a week before he was apprehended in Los Angeles





A suspect who was wanted for allegedly stabbing a Washington state woman to death and seriously wounding her brother-in-law was captured in Los Angeles after a week-long manhunt, authorities said.

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Alexander Lee Rogers, 51, of Longview, Wash., was taken into custody on Tuesday, Aug. 12, in the Koreatown area, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said at a press conference, CBS News reports.

Officers said they had positively identified the wanted suspect and that he was taken into custody without incident, McDonnell said.

Police had been searching for Rogers, who was wanted in connection with the alleged Aug. 5 murder of Dawn Peters, 64, and the attempted murder of Andrew Peters, 73, Captain Branden McNew of the Longview Police Department said in a Facebook post on Aug. 6.

Rogers is believed to have been working as a handyman for the victims, KOMO News reports.

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Dawn Peters died from her injuries and Andrew Peters was reported to be in stable condition and recovering at a local hospital.

Andrew was slashed in the throat, but "if it wasn't for him pushing the panic button the other 2 people in the house would've also been dead," reads a GoFundMe set up to help defray costs of Dawn Peters' funeral and to help repair the home in the aftermath of the attack.

L.A. County deputies had found Rogers' car, a black BMW, in Calabasas on Aug. 11.

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.

Rogers was released from prison earlier this year after serving a sentence for first-degree assault in a machete attack that injured two people in the early 2000s, McNew told KTLA-TV.

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In the GoFundMe, the organizer wrote that Dawn "was truly the kindest woman."

"There wasnt a single person on this earth that she didnt care about," the fundraising appeal reads. "She took care of everyone around her no matter the extent.



Rogers remains jailed in Los Angeles pending extradition. It is unclear whether he has retained an attorney who can speak on his behalf.



Read the original article on People
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Have you heard of House of Bread? Its a community kitchen that has been serving the Dayton community for over 40 years.

What is House of Bread?

Located at 9 Orth Ave., House of Bread serves hot, nutritious lunches to individuals who are seeking a meal and community daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The nonprofit organization is open 365 days a year, meaning people can even visit on holidays and weekends for a hot lunch.

Sherry Gale, executive director of House of Bread, said the organization is about preventing hunger and building community.

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You dont have to show any kind of I.D., said Gale. You just, you just come on in. So anybody can come between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. every day and get a free lunch here and enjoy one anothers company while youre here.

Community partners

House of Bread, located at 9 Orth Ave. in Dayton, provides hot lunches to people in need all year. | WDTN Photo/Carlos Mathis

According to Gale, visitors to House of Bread can be met with additional resources from external partners at different points in a month:

Checking blood pressure and other health services

Connecting visitors to alcohol, drug and mental health services

Providing information and checking in on housing opportunities

Signing up for SNAP benefits

Some visitors set up an appointment at House of Bread if they have nowhere else to meet for a meeting.

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We are really a point place where people can connect with people, particularly people who dont have homes and cant get to their offices so they can just happen upon them here at our place, Gale said.

Peanut butter response

In early July, WDTN.com previously reported House of Bread asked the community for assistance after its supply of peanut butter was depleted. The organization had handed out the last jar.

Since House of Bread asked for donations, it has seen an overwhelming amount of support from people with donating peanut butter. According to Gale, someone from as far as California contacted in hopes to provide assistance.

We had a great peanut butter drive thanks to the fabulous work with social media, said Gale.

Looking to Donate?

According to Gale, the nonprofit is still in need of a few items to serve the community:

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Coffee

Creamer

Plastic jars of jelly

Sugar

Gale told WDTN.com that between half to three-quarters of those it serves are homeless. As of date, the organization is also looking for donations of mens socks.

We are in need of mens socks in particular, Gale said. Right now we have womens socks, but we do need mens.

If you are looking to drop-off items, you can visit the location between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. You are asked to ring the bell at the back of the facility.

You can also make a monetary donation here.

Looking to volunteer?

House of Bread is always looking for volunteers. Gale said volunteers are an important part of helping serve the community daily.

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If you look out a little ways, you can find a date and then register out to volunteer here, Gale said. Volunteers are a great part of our kitchen, so we appreciate them.

If you would like to provide your time to help serve those in need, click here.

To learn more about volunteering, call 937-226-1520.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
DENVER (KDVR)  Seven people have been charged for their alleged involvement in an auto theft ring that impacted communities in Mesa and Garfield counties and nearby parts of Utah between October 2021 and May 2024, the Colorado Attorney Generals Office said Tuesday.

The attorney generals office said the defendants are accused of operating an organized crime ring to steal an estimated 44 vehicles  with a total aggregate value of more than $870,000  from mostly private citizens in Western Colorado.

Douglas County crimes rates down: DA points to non-residents as perpetrators

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The statewide grand jury returned a 51-count indictment against the seven defendants last week. Four of the defendants are listed by the attorney generals office as being in the custody at the Garfield County jail.

The defendants are accused of mainly stealing full-sized pickup trucks and off-highway vehicles. According to the indictment, the defendants would steal a vehicle, attempt to legitimize it through Vehicle Identification Number swapping or cloning, and then sell the stolen vehicle to a third party for profit.

The indictment also argues the defendants frequently altered the appearance of stolen vehicles or displayed license plates and temporary license plates that were not legitimately associated with the vehicle, and that this ultimately delayed the discovery of the alleged criminal ring and recovery of the vehicles.

2 alleged would-be thieves arrested outside Home Depot

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According to court records, many of the stolen vehicles were recovered from third-party buyers who were unaware they were stolen, the attorney generals office said.

The defendants are facing various charges, including violating Colorados Organized Crime Control Act, felony aggravated motor vehicle theft, motor vehicle theft in the second degree, attempt to influence a public servant, forgery of a government-issued document and varying degrees of felony theft.

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LAKE COUNTY, Tenn.  Six inmates were reportedly injured at a prison in Lake County Tuesday morning.

Spokesperson Amy Garner for West Tennessee Healthcare said that six patients were transferred to Dyersburg Hospital for stabilizing treatment and/or transfer to other facilities.

Garner said that due to federal privacy laws, any additional information cannot be released at this time.

WREG was told there was some sort of disturbance on Tuesday morning, and several inmates were injured at Northwest Correctional Complex.

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Three Lake County EMS units responded just before 8 a.m., with the injured inmates taken to a hospital in Dyersburg.

Inmate stabbed with homemade weapon at 201 Poplar

There is no information on what started the disturbance or how serious the injuries are.

The situation reportedly lasted about an hour, but it is unknown where on this sprawling complex the violence broke out.

Five miles away, Tiptonville Police were handling dozens of calls from the public, anxious to know what happened.

Questions asked by the general public, whats going on at the prison, things like that. questions I dont have answers to. Were typically not involved with anything going on inside the prison, thats handled by the Tennessee Department of Corrections and occasionally the TBI, said Chief Joe England of the Tiptonville TN Police Department.

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A Memphis mother also wants answers to what happened to her son, Christopher Sharp, 29, an inmate at Northwest, who died Monday night at Regional One.

He was stabbed in his head, in the temple, by his brain from the back, said Ranadia Sharp, Christophers mother.

Suspect in custody in Holly Springs double homicide: Sheriffs office

Randia Sharp believes her son was jumped on August 3 while in a maximum security cell.

They lied to me, like he fell off the top bunk and hit his head, he had a head injury, but the whole time he had been stabbed, said Randia.

She says her son was serving time for attempted murder in Memphis, and he had just been transferred to Northwest Correctional and was only there three months when he was reportedly attacked.

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What I want to know, who called the hit on my son, where it came from, and who jumped him, said Sharp.

WREG reached out to the Tennessee Department of Corrections for details on the disturbance as well as confirmation of Christopher Sharps injuries, but has not received a response.

A GoFundMe has been created for the burial expenses of Chris Sharp. Click here.

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An explosion at a steel plant in Pennsylvania on Monday has led to an extremely serious situation. The explosion at the plant produced massive amount of rubble, and several people are currently trapped under that debris.

Abigail Gardner, director of communications for Allegheny County, explained that a fire started at the plant just before 11 AM on Monday morning.

Five people have been confirmed as transported from the scene, and Gardner noted that no fatalities have been recorded following the preliminary search.

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The scene is still active, and folks nearby should follow the direction of local authorities," said Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, who noted that his administration is in contact with the local authorities in Clairton.

The fire and explosion took place at the US Steel Clairton Coke Works facility, which is considered the largest coking operation in North America. Around 1,200 people work at the facility in total, and it has been operational since the early part of the previous century.

The Clairton Coke Works facility is one of the major industrial hubs in the local area, which sits just over a half hour away from Pittsburgh. It's joined by the Edgar Thomson Works mill in nearby Braddock, and the Mon Valley WorksIrvin Plant in West Mifflin.

U.S. Steel is headquartered in Pittsburgh, and the production of steel has been a massive force in the city and state's economy for several decades. Some have critiqued the process, especially in relation to coking.

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Experts believe the process of coking - heating coal to produce coke, thereby creating a component to make steel - produces harmful and carcinogenic emissions that could lead to health problems.

According to the NIH's national cancer institute, prolonged exposure to coke oven emissions can increase one's risk for lung cancer or possibly even kidney cancer.

A previous 2018 fire at the Clairton Coke Works released harmful gases into the air around the Mon Valley. U.S. Steel reached a settlement with PennEnvironment and the Allegheny County Health Department.

The debate over the benefits of coking and the health issues that come from working with coal will continue to be a hot topic in Pennsylvania, but the current concern is the health and safety of those at the Clairton Coke Works after Monday's accident.

Several Trapped Under Rubble at Pennsylvania Steel Plant first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
Bharatiya Janata Party MP Jagdambika Pal, speaking to ANI on the Parliament proceedings, urged to maintain the decorum of the Lok Sabha, slamming Deputy Leader of Opposition, Gaurav Gogoi. "There is a certain decorum of Lok Sabha, of the Parliament...For the first time, I saw that Deputy Leader of Congress Gaurav Gogoi picked up papers, handed them over to MPs and told them to tear them up," said Jagdambika Pal, on Tuesday. These comments followed after the introduction of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Parliament Session on Tuesday, during which the Deputy Congress Leader, Gaurav Gogoi's behaviour came to notice. Speaking further on the decorum of Parliament, Pal, taking a jibe at Gaurav Gogoi, said, "If the Deputy Leader makes MPs throw pieces of paper towards the Chair...there was sloganeering against the Chair...I said this is unfortunate because the entire nation is watching you..." A bill that introduced a "creditor-initiated insolvency resolution process" with an out-of-court initiation mechanism for genuine business failures to facilitate faster and more cost-effective insolvency resolution was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, amid uproar by opposition members over their demand for debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Sitharaman proposed sending the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, to a Select Committee. The House approved the motion. According to the statement of Objects and Reasons of the bill, the proposed amendments aim to reduce delays, maximise value for all stakeholders, and improve governance of all processes under the Code. They seek to modify existing provisions to better align with the overall objectives of the Code and to introduce new provisions that follow global best practices for resolving insolvency. The cross-border insolvency framework seeks to lay the foundation for protecting stakeholder interests in domestic and foreign proceedings, promoting investor confidence and aligning domestic practices with international best practices. This will also pave the way for improved recognition of Indian insolvency proceedings in other jurisdictions, the statement said. (ANI)
President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that Russia would face very severe consequences if he determines during Fridays summit with Vladimir Putin that the Russian leader is still not serious about ending the war with Ukraine.

Trump, who did not specify what those consequences might be, has been reluctant to increase economic sanctions or tariffs on Russia despite his mounting frustration with Putins intensifying attacks on Ukrainian cities, civilians and indifference to peace talks.

Lowering expectations that the sit-down with Putin in Alaska would yield a breakthrough, Trump said that hes hopeful this initial meeting could lead to another that includes Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and, potentially, Trump.

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First, Ill find out where we are, Trump said. If the first [meeting] goes okay, we'll have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately.

But, the president cautioned, he wont pursue a trilateral meeting if he doesnt think Putin is acting in good faith. There may be no second meeting because if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have, then we are not going to have a second meeting, Trump said.

Trumps comments came during an appearance at the Kennedy Center and shortly after an hour-long call with European leaders, including Zelenskyy, in preparation for Fridays summit.

Trump described the call as very good, and several European leaders were quick to issue statements about the call Wednesday morning to underscore their alignment. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Trump largely shares Europes position on peace talks, and French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Trump is indeed pushing for a ceasefire, a top priority for Zelenskyy and NATO.

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Putins stubborn refusal to entertain Trumps diplomatic entreaties so far has pushed the president into closer alignment with NATO allies and even Zelenskyy, who he dressed down in the Oval Office less than six months ago.

Fridays sit-down with Putin, who many analysts believe is likely to try to repair his personal relationship with Trump in a private meeting while convincing him that Ukraine shares the blame for the prolonged conflict, will put the presidents shifting convictions to a serious test.

Even as he sought to put the onus on Putin to demonstrate new seriousness about ending the war, Trump downplayed expectations about his own ability to persuade the Russian president to do so. When asked whether he could convince Putin to stop targeting civilians in Ukraine, he demurred.

I guess the answer to that is probably no, Trump said.
Thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 60 mph and heavy rain are expected to move into southeast Michigan on Tuesday, Aug. 12, evening, the National Weather Service said.

Storms from western lower Michigan are forecast to reach metro Detroit by 10-11 p.m., said Megan Varcie, a meteorologist with the services White Lake office. The storms could cause localized flooding, though widespread flooding is not expected.

A tornado warning was in effect earlier Tuesday evening for the Midland area after radar indicated strong rotation, Varcie said. No tornadoes have been confirmed. The warning ended at 6:15 p.m. Midland officials reported widespread street flooding and urged residents to avoid travel and not drive through deep water.

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Severe thunderstorm warnings are in effect until 7:45 p.m. for southeastern Saginaw, northeastern Shiawassee, northwestern Genesee and Tuscola counties, according to the NWS. The storms could cause damage to roofs, siding and trees. Residents are urged to take shelter on the lowest floor of their homes or other buildings.

More: Perseids to reach peak tonight. Will the moon, weather allow viewing?

More: Will Michigan see a snowy winter? Old Farmer's Almanac says to expect temperature swings

Metro Detroit and areas north are still being monitored for possible severe thunderstorm warnings, Varcie said. The weather service advises residents to take precautions if warnings are issued.

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Michigan has recorded 29 tornadoes so far in 2025, tying 1991 for sixth place on the states list of top 10 tornado years, according to Michigan Storm Chasers. While the severe weather season usually ends in late August, tornadoes can still occur into the fall.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Severe storms, heavy rain expected in SE Michigan Tuesday night
BINGHAMTON, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY)  The National Weather Service office in Binghamton has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Otsego and Delaware Counties until 2:00PM Wednesday.

At 1:27PM, a severe thunderstorm was located near Jefferson, or 11 miles southwest of Cobleskill, moving northeast at 30 mph. This storm has 60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail associated with it. Hail damage to vehicles is expected, as well as wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.



Locations impacted include: Davenport, Stamford, Butts Corner, and Fergusonville.

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SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  After years of lagging behind other major metros in return-to-office rates, San Francisco is in the midst of a major revival and has surged past Los Angeles in post-pandemic office visits. Those are the findings of the latest Office Index from location tracking firm Placer.ai.

After years at, or near, the bottom of the return-to-office rankings, the City by the Bay has now surpassed both Los Angeles and Denver, according to Placer.ais Office Index for July, 2025. San Francisco actually leads year-over-year office visit recovery when comparing July of 2025 to 2024.

Palo Alto neighbors reportedly miffed at Zuckerbergs Crescent Park compound

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Indeed, San Francisco appears to be in the midst of a major revival, with rising rents, improving public sentiment, and waves of new restaurants, retail and small business openings breathing fresh life into a city once dismissed as stuck on a doom loop,' the report says.

The July Index saw SF beating out Houston, Washington D.C., Boston, Atlanta, and nationwide office visits when compared to the same time last year, which the report called more tangible evidence of the progress San Francisco continues to make.

Overall, New York City still leads the way with return-to-office. The Big Apple has seen a 1.3% increase in office visits compared to July of 2019. Miami was second with only a .1% decrease since that time.

Despite its surge over the past 12 months, San Francisco is still third from the bottom overall, a few percentage points of LA, several over Denver, and just one percentage point behind Chicago.

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Factors behind San Franciscos turnaround likely include improved perceptions around crime and safety, and major employers like Uber ramping up the number of days employees are expected in the office. The citys nascent artificial intelligence industry, with its predilection for having employees work in-person, is also likely a contributing factor.

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Its no accident that a shark-related bill moving quickly through Congress was introduced by legislators in coastal states, where the problem of sharks stealing fish off anglers lines has become commonplace. The bipartisan SHARKED Act stands for Supporting the Health of Aquatic Ecosystems through Research, Knowledge, and Enhanced Dialogue. It would establish a task force for understanding and dealing with the rise in shark depredations that saltwater anglers and charter captains say is a real concern.

Feeding sharks with the fish we hook is an everyday occurrence for me and just about every other charter captain I know in the Florida Keys, Capt. Joel Brandenburg told Outdoor Life in July 2024. The sharks roaming ledges and reefs are trained to come to fishing boats and hang there waiting for an easy meal.

The 2025 SHARKED Act was initially sponsored by Congressman Robert Wittman (R-VA) in the U.S. House of Representatives, where it passed easily in January. Sens. Rick Scott (R-FL) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) introduced a companion bill in the Senate in July that quickly passed through committee, according to the American Sportfishing Association.

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Read Next: Charter Captains Say Sharks Are Out of Control and Theyre Losing More Fish to the Taxman

Conflicts between anglers and sharks are expected to increase as shark populations continue to improve, the ASA stated in a recent action alert. It is one of 14 fishing and sportsmens groups that have signed a letter in support of the legislation.

If the bill becomes law, it would establish a task force made up of state and federal fisheries managers, as well as researchers, marine biologists, and other shark experts. The goal would be to understand why sharks are so frequently depredating hooked fish and explore ways to minimize those interactions.

Supporters of the legislation say that as shark populations have rebounded, partly as a result of protections and harvest restrictions, the number of depredating sharks (nicknamed taxmen by fishermen) has grown, especially in the South Atlantic and the Gulf. Florida captains like Brandenburg, whove become increasingly frustrated with sharks stealing their fish, have continued to document this problem.

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Read Next: Shark Eats What Could Have Been the New World-Record Red Snapper

Historically, we didnt have these encounters with sharks, so people are a little nervous, says Kellie Ralston, conservation and public policy vice president for the Miami-based Bonefish and Tarpon Trust. An important part of the conversation is understanding why we are seeing such an increase in interactions between sharks and anglers. Is it something we would expect with population rebound in general? Or have we overcorrected, and [now] were top heavy on sharks versus fish? Thats what the task force needs to address.

BTT is now in the second year of its own study, the Shark Depredation Project, which seeks to answer some of these same questions. Researchers are tagging 50 lemon sharks, the depredating species most commonly reported by fishing guides, and then tracking those sharks to see where they go and what they eat. Although the project is based in the Florida Keys, BTT hopes the results can inform management decisions nationwide.
The tenants of a 192-unit apartment and townhouse complex in South Baltimores Sharp Leadenhall neighborhood are suing their management company and the property owner for neglecting to address what they say are its dangerous living conditions.

Maryland Legal Aid is helping to bring the lawsuit on behalf of 17 tenants of the Sharp Leadenhall Apartments complex, which is comprised of about 66 apartments and 126 townhomes, according to the complaint.

The tenants argue the complex has a severe and pervasive rodent infestation and infestations of various insects, in addition to inconsistent trash removal and a routinely blocked trash chute in one of the buildings, which exacerbate the pest problems.

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Damaged windows, window frames and screens add to issues with the pests, as well as contributing to leaks, the suit says. It also alleges that the management company and owners dont have valid rental licenses for the property.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Zafar Shah, Maryland Legal Aids advocacy director for Human Right to Housing, said the suit was the second brought under Marylands Tenant Safety Act of 2024.

Sharp Leadenhall [Apartments] is privately owned and operated affordable housing, he said. Its management company, FPI Management, and owner, HVPG Sharp Leadenhall Apartments, a holding of national Hudson Valley Property Group, account for nearly 30,000 rental units across the United States, he said.

Neither company immediately responded to a request for comment Wednesday morning, following the news conference.

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Some tenants have been making maintenance requests for nearly 10 years, said Maryland Legal Aid attorney Caroline Tripp.

Flooring and leaks are in multiple homes, leading to mold in the units, according to the lawsuit. One resident, Sharnae Jones, said she has been dealing with mold throughout her unit since she moved to the complex in late January. She said the safety issues could lead her to lose custody of her grandchildren. She did not elaborate.

Im still going through it now with this  trying to keep my babies, she said.

The tenants sent the FPI Management and owner HVPG Sharp-Leadenhall Apartments letters earlier this year describing the issues at hand in the lawsuit. After a meeting with management in April, trash removal has become more frequent, but the suit says its still not regular enough to prevent trash accumulation around the Property.

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Tenants also want greater security on the property because security cameras arent in working order, non-residents are using empty apartments, and maintenance accesses homes without notice.

At the April meeting, FPI Management promised to give written notice before entering a home and to either increase Baltimore Police Department presence or contract with a private security firm. Neither has happened, the suit says.

The complexs laundry room is locked outside the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, making it inaccessible to many working tenants, according to the lawsuit. FPI management said in April it was committed to brainstorming solutions to this issue, but tenants say there havent been any changes.

Similarly, the propertys community room isnt available to tenants, contrary to what their leases and online ads claim, the complaint says. FPI made the room available for the April meeting. The tenants observed a large hole in the wall that used to contain an air conditioning unit that leaves it open to the elements, according to the suit.

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Since the complex is subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, it is subject to regulations requiring the landlords to not only maintain safe, secure housing for the Plaintiffs, but also fulfill promised services and amenities, the suit says.

The defendants arent holding up their end of the lease, said Maryland Legal Aid attorney Annie Toborg.

This count is an attempt to hold management and the owners accountable to what they promised, she said.

The suit asks that the management company and owner make repairs and provide tenants with notice before entering their homes. The complaint asks that plaintiffs pay $0 in rent until the defendants get valid rental licenses, and if they do become licensed, that plaintiffs should pay rent into escrow in amounts that reflect any continuing dangerous conditions.

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This is absurd. Its unacceptable, said City Councilmember Zac Blanchard, who represents the 11th District, including Sharp Leadenhall, on Wednesday. Blanchard said Maryland Legal Aid has since been banned from the property.

We have to be patient, we have to be consistent, we have to be persistent. We have to keep putting the pennies in the bank, but were going to get there, Blanchard said of the tenants fight ahead with the two large companies.

This story will be updated.

Have a news tip? Contact Racquel Bazos at rbazos@baltsun.com, 443-813-0770 or on X as @rzbworks.
The heat wave is expected to peak on Wednesday, with interior regions, including the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee area, forecast to approach 50C.

Israel is sweltering under a record-breaking heat wave on Wednesday morning that has shattered decades-old temperature records and brought unprecedented overnight heat. According to the Israel Meteorological Service, Tuesday night was the hottest since measurements began, with Mount Sodom setting a new national record for minimum temperature at 36.6C, surpassing the previous 35.5C.

Eilat and Yotvata also broke records, registering 35.8C and 33.7C, respectively, while the Tel Aviv Metropolitan Area endured a sticky night of around 30C with 82% humidity.

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The heat wave is expected to peak on Wednesday, with interior regions, including the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee area, forecast to approach 50C. The northern valleys and Jordan Valley are likely to see their hottest day since 1942, the Meteorological Service said. Jerusalem had already reached 35C early in the morning, with temperatures in southern areas near the Dead Sea climbing to 37C.

On Tuesday, Jerusalem hit 41.3C and was briefly cooled by rare tropical rain, while the Hula Valley recorded 46.3C. In Beit She'an, the thermometer read 45.7C, and Kibbutz Gilgal posted 38.5 discomfort units  the highest ever recorded  combining 47.2C heat with 26% humidity.

Coastal cities like Tel Aviv and Bat Yam saw slightly lower readings of 31.5C thanks to sea breezes, but humidity compounded the heat stress. Eilat sweltered at 44C, accompanied by thunderstorms.

Enjoying the beach in Tel Aviv on a hot summer day. August 6, 2025. (credit: MIRIAM ALSTER/FLASH90)

Wednesdays forecast calls for heavy heat across the country, steamy and humid along the coast, and possible afternoon thunderstorms in the south, with haze in some areas. Localized rain and storms could persist into the night. The Meteorological Service issued a nationwide red warning for extreme heat stress, warning of risks including dehydration, heatstroke, wildfires, harm to sensitive populations and animals, transportation disruptions, and possible electricity failures.

Public urged to avoid outdoor activity, drink water

Authorities are urging the public to take precautions: avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during peak heat, stay in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, drink plenty of water, and wear light clothing and hats. People are warned never to leave children or pets in closed vehicles and to check in on elderly neighbors and relatives.

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These are exceptional and dangerous conditions, forecasters cautioned, adding that other unlisted hazards may arise depending on local weather.

While slight relief is expected starting Thursday, temperatures will remain well above normal. Friday should bring a further dip, mainly in the mountains and inland, but heat loads will still be heavy to extreme. A more significant cooldown is forecast for Saturday.

Wednesday's expected highs and lows include: Jerusalem 2940C, Tel Aviv 2735C, Haifa 2634C, Safed 2941C, Katzrin 2844C, Tiberias 3041C, Nazareth 2638C, Afula 2641C, Beit Shean 2947C, Lod 2638C, Ashdod 2833C, Ein Gedi 3445C, Beer-Sheva 2641C, Mitzpe Ramon 2940C, and Eilat 3449C. The Meteorological Service advises continued vigilance until the heat wave passes.

Rise in home births

Israels ongoing heat wave reached its peak on Wednesday, prompting a noticeable rise in births outside hospital settings. Magen David Adom (MDA) reported six births handled by its teams since early morning  double the daily average.

Dr. Rafael Strogo, MDAs Deputy Chief of Medical Affairs, cited heat stress, dehydration, and sleep deprivation as possible factors accelerating labor. Dr. Shapir Butner, director of the MDA Paramedic School, noted that high temperatures may also lead expectant mothers to delay hospital visits, increasing home births.
WICHITA COUNTY (KFDX/KJTL)  A longtime fixture in local law enforcement will hang up his badge at the end of the month.

Sheriff David Duke has been the sheriff of Wichita County for nearly two decades, but hell be riding off into the sunset of retirement on August 31.

43 years and two months is a long time, Duke said.

After a career in law enforcement that spans four decades, all spent in Wichita County, Sheriff David Duke is retiring at the end of the month.

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It really is bittersweet. And this Ive had this conversation with my wife, too, because she likes to do the countdown thing to me, you know, Duke said.

Theres a reason the countdown is a matter of weeks and not to the end of his term in 2028.

Basically, it comes down to wanting to spend more time with my wife, just doing things, and I have a lot of things to do at my place, and cant do that whenever youre working all the time, Duke shared.

Sheriff Dukes career began in June 1982, when he was just barely out of his teenage years and working as a jailer with the county jail. In 2008, Duke was elected the sheriff of Wichita County, and hes accomplished a lot in the 17 years since then.

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But one of the crowning achievements of Sheriff Dukes career was the new law enforcement center. It was a full-circle moment for the sheriff who started out as a jailer, bringing a state-of-the-art facility to Wichita County.

Getting this facility built and having the room that we have, the jail itself, and the sheriffs office. We were the only sheriffs office in the state of Texas, our size, that was still in the basement of a courthouse, Duke said.

Sheriff Duke said now, more than ever, the sheriffs office is in good hands.

The sheriffs office is in a great position being able to have excellent people that work for me, Duke said.

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One of those people is Sheriff Dukes right-hand man, Chief Deputy William Rutledge, who has Dukes full support for taking over the office in September.

Ive known him for over 30-plus years; we went to high school together.

Rutledge said hes ready to take on the role.

Your number 2 guy is always supposed to be able to step up and do your job, if something should ever happen, and I feel like I can do that, Rutledge said.

Although working at the sheriffs office wont be the same without his long-time friend.

Im going to miss being able to talk to him and run things by him, get his opinion on the way things are operating and how we should change things that ought to be changed, Rutledge said.

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As much as Sheriff Duke is going to miss being the sheriff of Wichita County, he said its not all bad.

Good thing is, I wont have the phone calls in the middle of the night, and getting up, getting dressed and going out on manhunts, chases, deceased, you know, bad fires, and whatever things happen, Duke said.

And he wont be a stranger, hoping to serve in reserve to achieve one more milestone.

Itd be kind of neat to have a peace officer commission of 50 years, so thats not far down the road, I can do that, Duke added.

Congratulations, Sheriff Duke, on an incredible career and a well-earned retirement. And thank you for serving the residents of Wichita County as sheriff.

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From all of us at KFDX, Texomas Fox and Texomas Homepage, we want to thank Sheriff Duke for his years of service and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.

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Shipwrecks possibly connected to Spanish ship attacked in 18th century discovered by ECU students on NC coast

WINNABOW, N.C. (WNCN)  A team of archaeologists with East Carolina University recently made a historic discovery off the North Carolina coastline, uncovering the remains of four shipwrecks dating back to the 18th century.

The archeology group, which is a part of the ECU program in maritime studies, foraged the shoreline near the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site in Brunswick County in May and June. During their excavation, the team recorded wood samples from the newly discovered shipwrecks that suggest that shipbuilders incorporated raw materials from Spanish Caribbean colonies in the 1700s.

We are extremely excited about these important sites, as each one will help us to better understand the role of [Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson] as one of the states earliest colonial port towns, said Jason Raupp, ECU assistant professor in the department of history and maritime studies, who led the team. These submerged colonial waterfront features are incredibly well-preserved and present an excellent opportunity for ECU students to engage in hands-on, collaborative research.

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Although more work needs to be conducted to confirm the identity of the remains, the university said its archaeologists think they found the leftovers from La Fortuna. This was a Spanish privateer from Cuba that exploded near the colonial wharves at Brunswick Town during an attack on the port at the end of King Georges War in September 1748.

A large section of the possible La Fortuna shipwreck lying on the beach near the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site in Brunswick County, North Carolina. (Courtesy: ECU Program in Maritime Studies)

ECU scientists said the wreck lies in proximity to where an 18th-century cannon, thought to be from La Fortuna, was recovered in 1985.

I came across several wooden frames barely sticking out of the clay mud with evidence of planking just barely visible on the surface, ECU maritime studies graduate student Cory van Hees said. I didnt understand what I was looking at in that moment, but I knew I should relay the wooden structure to faculty.

Later that day, [Raupp] was able to confirm this was a wreck, which may be La Fortuna, van Hees added. It was kind of overwhelming and a little emotional feeling once it set in.

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Throughout the summer, three other shipwreck sites were also found at the historic sites waterfront, ECU researchers said.

Preliminary analysis suggests that one was likely used for land reclamation at the waterfront based on its positioning immediately next to a colonial wharf site, the university said. Another is a potential colonial flatboata watercraft historically used to transport people and goods between the port and nearby plantations. The fourth was barely exposed and its remains are still unidentified.

ECU maritime studies faculty and graduate students perform an emergency recovery of a section from the possible La Fortuna shipwreck at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site in Brunswick County, North Carolina. (Courtesy: ECU Program in Maritime Studies)

Despite the historic discoveries, the shipwrecks, waterfront infrastructure, and artifacts are considered at risk due to ongoing erosion along the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson, according to Dr. Raupp.

The successful recovery of the possible La Fortuna shipwreck and documentation of heritage at risk within a nationally significant historic site demonstrates the effectiveness of the collaborative efforts of the research team, he said.

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The university said research and analysis into the construction and identity of each of the four shipwrecks is still ongoing.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  An Oklahoma City neighborhood says theyre excited that steps have been taken to clean up a home that city reports say you can literally smell from the street.

News 4 has been following the story since neighbors in the Northwest Oklahoma City addition initially contacted our newsroom with complaints in July. The bulk of the visible issues with the property, News 4 employees observed, were tied to the front porch area. Trash was littered across a path leading up the porch, including open cans of discarded animal food, standing water, fly traps, and other junk. The odor coming from the nearby area was so distinct that News 4 employees had to take multiple breaks.

RELATED: Smell the house from the street: OKC neighborhood fed up with problem property

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Open city reports backed up neighbors complaints, with city employees telling News 4 there were three cases still open. One open case, dated June 25, was only tied to high grass. Another open June 25 case talked about a putrid odor coming from the front door. The last open case, dated July 1, said Oklahoma City Animal Welfare and Oklahoma City Police got a warrant to search the property, calling it beyond uninhabitable.

The case notes added that during the July 1 response, over 35 cats were removed from the home, along with six dead cats in various stages of decomposition. The case said that the floors and walls inside the home were covered in feces and that you can smell the house from the street.

News 4 made contact with the owner of the property. The owner denied having knowledge of the current condition of the property, stating that they hadnt lived there in years and were in the process of getting it transferred over to a relative. News 4 also spoke with that relative and they said they were working with the city and had hired a cleaning company to clean up the mess over the last weekend of July.

That July weekend came and went, but on August 7, News 4 received messages from neighbor Denise Hay, stating that cleaning crews finally appeared to be at the property assessing the situation.

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It was a shock.to see them come, said Hay.

Video clips Hay shared with News 4 employees show crews entering the home in full hazmat suits. Hay said she spoke with the crews about their work and how it compared to previous assignments.

[They said] theres only been one other [property] that they have had to work on that has been worse than this one, said Hay.

Hay said she watched as crews went in and out of the property, telling her there appeared to be a bad flea infestation in the home. She said she also witnessed crews bringing out furniture and appliances that will likely have to be discarded due to contamination.

Progress being made at the Northwest OKC home at the center of neighbor complaints. IMAGE KFOR.

It was really good to see someone finally take it seriously and actually take some action and get us some relief, said Hay.

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Hay told News 4 last month shes been home a very limited amount and hasnt been able to host big functions due to the smell. She said shes hoping that can change in the future.

I have a party planned for two or three months down the road, and I think thatll be nice, said Hay.

News 4 visited the property again on August 12 and observed cleaning crews entering and exiting the home, only wearing face masks. A dumpster was also on the property, filled with various trash and even a mattress from inside the home.

Hay said while the clean-up efforts are appreciated, shes still having to look into ways to limit a flea and insect infestations on her property. She said shes hoping that when a majority of the trash is hauled away, it will be a big help towards resolving some of those issues.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Q: Can you offer some background information on the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers Meeting? What does China, the host country, expect from this meeting? What is Chinas consideration for holding the Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Thailand?

A: The LMC is an innovative type of regional cooperation mechanism among China, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam featuring collaboration, consultation and shared benefit. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the six countries, the Mekong countries have successively announced with China the building of a community with a shared future, which means that countries in the region have all been committed to building a community with a shared future both bilaterally and multilaterally under the LMC mechanism. Connectivity across land, sea, air and the cyberspace has been enhanced, cross-border trade, investment, and industrial and supply chain cooperation continued to deepen, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges have flourished, fostering ever-closer bonds among our peoples. The six countries have cultivated the Lancang-Mekong spirit of development first, equal consultation, practicality and high efficiency, and openness and inclusiveness, and worked together to build a Lancang-Mekong home that shares weal and woe in solidarity.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism. All Lancang-Mekong countries are now at a crucial stage of accelerated development. Facing a volatile international landscape and the rise of unilateralism, hegemony and protectionism, the Lancang-Mekong countries need to strengthen unity, enhance cooperation, and promote common development. China hopes to work with the Mekong countries at the LMC Foreign Ministers Meeting to review the outcomes of cooperation, take stock of success experience, and plan for future development of the mechanism, so as to build a more resilient Lancang-Mekong Economic Development Belt and an even closer Lancang-Mekong community with a shared future, providing greater stability and new driving forces for improving the well-being of people and promoting sustainable development in the region.

On the sidelines of the LMC meeting, as proposed by Thailand, the co-chair of the LMC, the Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Thailand will be held for an in-depth exchange of views on the regional situation, jointly combating cross-border crimes and other issues of mutual interest and concern.
The Northern Range Police in Odisha has initiated a suicide and self-immolation prevention drive across colleges in five districts, focusing on mental health awareness, resilience-building, and helpline outreach, with active participation from police officials, educators, and community members. According to the statement, the five districts are Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, Jharsuguda, and Sonepur. The initiative, led by the Inspector General (IG) of Northern Range and all district Superintendents of Police (SPs), features interactive sessions, counselling workshops, expert lectures, and information on available helpline services. According to police officials, the campaign is designed to promote mental health awareness, encourage resilience, and motivate students to seek timely professional help. The Northern Range Police has appealed to college administrations, parents, and community members to actively collaborate in building a safe and supportive environment for the youth. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Odisha Minister Nityananda Gond had clarified that the tragic death of a 13-year-old girl from Bargarh, who died after self-immolating, did not occur in school and the cause remains unclear. He further emphasised the government's commitment to girls' safety in schools through Internal Complaint Committees and efforts to prevent such incidents in the future. "The incident did not take place in the school. It happened behind her house. The reason for the same is not yet clear. Our government is working for the girls' safety in the schools. There are Internal Complaint Committees at the school levels... The government will make sure that such incidents don't take place in the future," he said. On Monday, a 13-year-old girl died after she allegedly immolated herself in Odisha's Bargarh, police said. The victim was admitted to a hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. "Investigation is going on, and as per law, action will be taken. Three to four teams have been formed, and interrogation is underway... The girl has died and her postmortem is going on," said Inspector General (Northern Range), Himanshu Lal. (ANI)
EDITORS NOTE: Help is available if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters.

In the US: Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Globally: The International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide have contact information for crisis centers around the world.

After a random shooting in Austin, Texas, left three people dead, Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said that the suspect had past criminal offenses and serious issues. The 32-year-old suspect was arrested after police found him naked, holding a Bible and claiming he was Jesus.

There were some serious failures here, Davis said.

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Days earlier, a 30-year-old man had fired hundreds of shots at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, killing a police officer. The gunman, who took his own life, had spoken about suicide and had reportedly reached out for mental health assistance ahead of the attack.

And just a few days before that, another gunman with a history of mental health problems shot and killed four people in a Manhattan skyscraper before turning the gun on himself.

Suspects in several recent high-profile attacks were described as having mental health problems, but experts say that doesnt mean their mental health issues are to blame for the killings.

No mental health system is built to catch such rare and explosive crimes, experts said. But the potential solution is one that many politicians wont have the stomach to address: limiting access to guns.

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Often we tell the mental illness story because its the most obvious or fits into our stereotypes and if we focus only on that, then were missing all of these other factors which are much more predictive of mass shootings, said Dr. Jonathan Metzl, the director of the Department of Medicine, Health and Society at Vanderbilt University and author of What Weve Become: Living and Dying in a Country of Arms.

Having a mental health problem is not predictive of mass shootings, Metzl said. Many have symptoms of mental illness, thats definitely true, but thats a different argument than saying that mental illness caused the mass shooting.

Violence is not a listed symptom of mental health issues, including major depression or schizophrenia, Metzl noted. In fact, theres no mental illness whose symptoms are violence toward others or shooting other people, he said.

Many people in the United States have a mental illness, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  1 in 5 adults experience a mental illness in a given year  and only a microscopic number of them go on to hurt anyone else, Metzl said.

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People with mental illness are much more likely to be the victim, rather than the perpetrators, of violence, studies show. And if a person with mental health issues hurts anyone with a gun, its most likely themselves, said Dr. Jeffrey W. Swanson, a professor in psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Duke University School of Medicine who has also written extensively about gun violence and mental health.

Mental illness is a strong causal factor in suicides, studies show, but only about 3% to 4% of violent acts are attributable to serious mental illness alone, Swansons research showed. Even among gun violence, mass shootings are unusual: Of the 150,000 people shot in the United States every year, only about one to 2% of those were victims of mass shootings, research shows.

If you think about it, we certainly have a problem with gun violence in the US. We have a problem with mental illness. Those are two really big public health problems that intersect on their edges, but mental illness, its not exactly the place you would start if you just wanted to try to stop so many people from dying in mass shootings, Swanson said.

Flowers are seen below a handwritten sign outside the CDC on Saturday. - Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images

Mass shootings generally dont stem from one problem but several factors might increase the risk: A history of violence, access to guns, violent social networks, misogyny and substance abuse all make the list.

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Most perpetrators of mass shootings had domestic violence histories or targeted family or intimate partners, said Lisa Geller, senior adviser for implementation at the Center for Gun Violence Solutions at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Domestic violence, more than any other issue really played a critical role in mass shootings, said Geller, who wrote a 2021 study about the role of domestic violence in mass shootings.

And while some may argue mass shootings would be prevented if attackers had better access to the mental health system, J. Thomas Sullivan, professor emeritus at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law, said he doesnt think thats right, either.

Putting the burden on the mental health system to provide the help that would be needed to stop these shootings is an inappropriate way to shift the blame, said Sullivan, who has written extensively about the topic.

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Sullivan said several of the mental health experts he has taught said their patients issue threats all the time. But not everybody can accurately predict when somebody who is making a threat it actually going to follow through, Sullivan said.

Sullivan and other experts CNN spoke with said the more effective solution would be to focus on the tools used to harm others.

I think a lot of people arent going to like to hear this, but the real problem is access to guns, Sullivan said.

There are many responsible gun owners, himself included, Sullivan said, but its very difficult to stop someone from firing a gun if theyve got one.

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Gun restrictions are what countries such as Australia and New Zealand turned to after a mass shooting. The strongest risk factors for violent behavior in general, Swanson said, is being young and being male. But you know you cant round them up, right? Swanson said. Some countries have decided that the idea that everyone should have easy access to a firearm is just too dangerous. So they broadly limit legal access to guns, he said.

Police block the entrance to a Target after a shooting in Austin, Texas, on Monday. - Stephen Spillman/AP

Until neuroscientists come up with the magic molecule to eliminate injurious behavior, in the meantime its important to focus on the lethal means issue, Swanson said.

One way to do that is through extreme protection orders, also known as red flag laws. Depending on the law, if a family or household member or law enforcement believe a person is at risk of harm to themselves or others, a court can restrict access to firearms for as long as the order is in effect.

Red flag laws are important, Geller said, because they focus on peoples behavior rather than a diagnosis.

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Just because someone is experiencing mental health issues doesnt mean they have a diagnosable mental illness, Geller said.

Twenty-one states, Washington, D.C. and the US Virgin Islands and have some form of red flag law on the books, according to the non-profit Everytown for Gun Safety.

After Connecticut increased its enforcement of its red flag law, research found it was associated with a 14% reduction in the states firearm suicide rate. In California, gun violence restraining orders have been credited with deterring at least 58 potential mass shootings and other types of gun violence in that state, including suicide, research shows.

Polls have shown the majority of Americans favor these kind of restrictions, but the political reality does not always reflect that.

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In Texas, where three people  a store employee, a 4-year-old and her grandfather  were killed in the Austin Target parking lot on Monday, the legislature recently passed law that make such gun law restrictions illegal.

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A glorified photo op: About a dozen National Guard members took a stroll around Washington D.C.'s National Mall yesterday as the sun set. Other troops deployed around monuments elsewhere, and some could be found at a U.S. Park Police facility in Anacostia.

"We just did a presence patrol to be amongst the people, to be seen," Master Sgt. Cory Boroff told The New York Times.

But it wasn't just showmanship. Federal agentsincluding those with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the FBIworking in conjunction with Metropolitan Police Department officers (who have been temporarily placed under federal control) made 23 arrests on Monday night. That total, per Director Kash Patel, included "one arrest on a search warrant for a prior murder charge" and "multiple outstanding warrants for DUI." It's not totally clear how many arrests were made yesterday or if these figures are in addition to standard arrests made by D.C. cops, which have been averaging 68 arrests per day. (Also, arrests are different than convictions; these folks must still wend their way through the court system.)

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By day yesterday, Mayor Muriel Bowser met with Attorney General Pam Bondi and other administration officials, seemingly focused on how to best partner and use the federal support. By night, Bowser was back to her critical tone, calling the president's actions an "authoritarian push" and saying in a town hall that Trump seeing homeless encampments "triggers something in him that has him believing that our very beautiful city is dirty, which it is not."

"I worry about this, because we spend a lot of time and resources trying to get the people who are in encampments into shelter, and they present with a lot of issues that make them not want to go into shelter," she continued; but White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has been clear that homeless people may either access such services or else be "susceptible to fines or to jail time."

"We are not 700,000 scumbags and punks," Bowser said. "We don't have neighborhoods that should be bulldozed. We have to be clear about our story, who we are and what we want for our city." Bowser took to X to emphasize how "violent crime in DC is at its lowest level in 30 years."

Violent crime in DC is at its lowest level in 30 years. We had an unacceptable spike in 2023, so we changed our laws and strategies. Now, crime levels are not only down from 2023, but from before the pandemic. Our tactics are working, and we aren't taking our foot off the gas. pic.twitter.com/UHpCT8RDPG  Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) August 12, 2025

But just two days ago, Bowser was trying to split the difference:

While Mayor Bowser calls Trump's takeover of DC police "unsettling and unprecedented," she says "the fact that we have more law enforcement and presence in neighborhoodsthat may be positive."  Philip Melanchthon Wegmann (@PhilipWegmann) August 11, 2025

And this is all a bit of a departure from Bowser's messaging, which for the last year up until a few days ago had beena bit tougher on crime than much of the City Council's (which isn't saying all that much). But now, it's showmanship all the way down: She appears to be trying to publicly position herself as a #Resistance figure while also accepting federal help.

"But DC's crime is falling!" is a terrible response to Trump's takeover. DC's homicide rate was five times New York's last year, and we're optimistic that this year, it will fall to merely 3x. As a matter of political strategy and moral correctness, it is better to acknowledge  Megan McArdle (@asymmetricinfo) August 12, 2025

To some degree, Bowser and Leavittas well as the president himselfare conflating crime and quality-of-life issues. Is the intention, with the deployment of federal force, to get the specific carjacking crime wave under control? Or is it to curb crime more broadly? Or is it to clean up homeless encampments and make the city less dirty?

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It all reminds me of the cleanup of San Francisco in advance of Xi Jinping coming to town. Prior to hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2023 (and a meeting between thenPresident Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping), state and city leaders took it upon themselves to clear homeless encampments, power-wash the sidewalks, and ramp-up law enforcement, leading many San Francisco residents to wonder why Xi deserves such special treatment but they must be subjected to living in perpetual dereliction. It was all for show, but it also made the issue politically salient for a moment and proved to San Franciscans that a cleaner, better-functioning city was possible. Of course, the effects didn't really lastdealing with homelessness long-term is a lot harder than moving the homeless people temporarily out of sightbut it's possible it had a lasting political effect.

But the situation in D.C. is, in many ways, different: The real issue here is whether this is an appropriate use of executive power, and whether it will be an effective means of getting the problems under control. But it's an interesting moment because it's forcing Democratic politicians to decide whether they're going to become crime denialists or not and how exactly they want to position themselves going forward.

Scenes from New York: This is kind of a funny read (from May) becausedespite being a young person in New YorkI don't really know many of these names dropped who are allegedly part of the "it" crowd that endorsed Zohran Mamdani. Ella Emhoff (Kamala Harris' stepdaughter)? That's the best you can do? If this is the youthmentum, I'm not buying that it's very strong (especially without the Dimes Square set, which is more inclined to talk Curtis Yarvin than Frantz Fanon).

Relatedly: I don't have an issue with these people's ages, but I do have an issue with them coming from the Democratic Socialists of America.

Mamdani's policies were written by 28/34 yo DSAs. Few in his inner circle ever worked in government. And the person he charged to hire his city hall team is a California native. This is who we're getting to run the top financial capital in the world and the largest school pic.twitter.com/q3yC0fsXUj  Yiatin Chu (@ycinnewyork) August 12, 2025

QUICK HITS

"Mexico sent 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States Tuesday in the latest major deal with the Trump administration as American authorities ratchet up pressure on criminal networks smuggling drugs across the border," reports the Associated Press.

Really good Just Asking Questions episode (if I may say so myself) with Rob Henderson, the guy who popularized the phrase luxury beliefs:

"China Evergrande Group's delisting marks a bleak milestone for the nation's property sector, now in a fourth year of paralysis that continues to weigh down the world's second-largest economy," reports Bloomberg. "The company, once China's biggest developer by sales, will be removed from the Hong Kong stock exchange on Aug. 25, a year and a half after the shares were suspended and almost 16 years after the Guangzhou-based firm was listed."

"The White House plans to conduct a far-reaching review of Smithsonian museum exhibitions, materials and operations ahead of America's 250th anniversary," reports The Wall Street Journal. White House officials said they'll expect exhibits to emphasize "unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story" and will audit accordingly.

What would we do without the state?

I can't imagine the horrors happening inside a private home school that violated Palo Alto city code. God forbid they were learning calculus. Pray for these children. pic.twitter.com/Z8SkoQwmP6  Katherine Boyle (@KTmBoyle) August 11, 2025

The post Show Patrol appeared first on Reason.com.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A new school year is on the way for Sioux City Community School District, and that means school officials are once again looking for local volunteers to fill an important role.

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The School Improvement Advisory Committee gives community members, parents, teachers and school staff a chance to share their voice when it comes to identifying district challenges and brainstorming potential solutions.

If youre interested in volunteering for the committee, applications are open through 5 p.m. on Friday, September 5. You can fill out an application online here, or email fosterl@live.siouxcityschools.com.

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SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  The Sioux City Parks and Rec Department showed the Siouxland community a good time with their Pop-Up Parks event.

This is the fourth one of the summer, with one more still planned.

This one was held at Riverside Park and included a bouncy house, corn-hole, games, arts and crafts, free food, and a chance for people to interact with the Sioux City Fire Department.

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The Pop-Up Parks; its really fun. Come out and get free food. Have some fun with your kids. Its typically by our splash pads. Especially when its hot out, its really good to get on the splash pad, get wet, and come eat some food, said Recreation Coordinator with Sioux City Parks & Rec, Landry Reynoldson.

The fifth and final Pop-up park will be held on August 23 at the Sioux City Farmers Market.

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  A Sioux Falls man is being held on a quarter-million-dollar bond for crimes spanning at least two counties.

KELOLANDs Karlee Phillips has been going through court records and joins us with details on the suspect and the charges he faces.

UPDATE: Jury reaches guilty verdict in Lincoln County triple murder trial

31-year-old Hermon Jermia is charged with kidnapping a 13-year-old in Lake County.

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According to court documents, hes accused of taking the teenager with the purpose of enticement or rape in late June.

On the same day, authorities in Minnehaha County arrested Jermia for contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Court documents list the same victim as the Lake County case.

In the Minnehaha County case, Jermia was released on a PR bond, which means he didnt have to pay money and was able to stay out of jail as long as he stayed out of trouble.

He was indicted by a grand jury in Lake County, so authorities are not releasing details on the case.

We dont know how the two met or what exactly led to the charges.

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He was arrested in Minnehaha County and hasnt been booked in Lake County yet. As soon as we get it, we will include it here.

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Sir George Reid, who has died aged 86, was an award-winning broadcaster who became a Scottish Nationalist MP, international publicity director for the Red Cross, a founder member of the revived Scottish Parliament, its Presiding Officer from 2003 to 2007, and in 2022 a Knight of the Thistle.

As head of news and current affairs at STV, Gorgeous George Reid was a household name across central Scotland when he was chosen as an SNP candidate three weeks before the February 1974 election. His chances seemed slim, but the surge of SNP support as Edward Heath lost power propelled him and six colleagues to Westminster.

His skills as a communicator proved valuable as the SNP gained further seats that October; he then, as its devolution spokesman, kept up the pressure on Harold Wilson and James Callaghan to deliver a Scottish assembly with meaningful powers.

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While insisting such an assembly must be a stepping-stone to independence, Reid  a convert from Labour who was never insular in his nationalism  kept pushing an at times reluctant government until devolution was on the statute book. He then  alongside most Nationalists and the bulk of the Labour Party  campaigned for a Yes vote in the March 1979 referendum.

When the referendum proved inconclusive  51.6 per cent in favour but a turnout well below the 40 per cent threshold set at Westminster  Reid demanded that Callaghan bring in the assembly anyway. When he refused, the SNP tabled a motion of no-confidence.

Margaret Thatcher, seeing an opportunity to get a tired Labour government out of office, took over the motion, and after an electrifying debate in which Callaghan warned the SNP they were turkeys voting for an early Christmas, Labour was defeated by one vote. In the ensuing election, Reid and all but two of his colleagues lost their seats.

It was 20 years before he returned to elective politics, as an MSP after Tony Blairs government had got its devolution plans through following a further referendum. Reid became deputy presiding officer to Sir David Steel, and when the former Liberal leader stood down after the parliaments first term he was elected unopposed to succeed him.

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Steel had from a standing start given the office of Presiding Officer a degree of authority, and Reid developed this further. In particular, he led the creation of a Scottish Futures Forum, to promote cross-party strategic thinking.

George Newlands Reid was born at Tullibody, in the tiny county of Clackmannan, on June 4 1939, the son of George Reid, a company director, and the former Margaret Forsyth.

From Dollar Academy he took a First in History at St Andrews University, being president of the Students Representative Council. He continued his studies in Switzerland, and at Union College in New York state.

Reid joined the Scottish Daily Express in 1962 as a feature writer, after two years switching to television as a reporter with STV. In 1965 he moved to Manchester as a producer with Granada, arousing comment for his firmness in keeping candidates to the point during the 1966 election.

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From 1968 he was STVs head of news and current affairs, producing more than 200 documentaries including Contract 736, about the construction of the QE2, which was awarded an Emmy.

Reid had joined the Labour Party in 1958, but in 1973 he switched to the SNP as its support began to swell after the discovery of North Sea oil. Selected late on to fight Stirlingshire East & Clackmannan, he defeated the Labour MP Dick Douglas by 3,610 votes.

At Westminster he became the SNPs spokesman on health, housing and social services, but within weeks he was fighting to save his old paper. When Express Newspapers announced the closure of its Glasgow operation to cut costs, Reid declared that with a circulation of 550,000 the Scottish Daily Express was more successful than the Manchester and London editions.

Having more than a single Nationalist MP was a novelty for Westminster, and the group  increased to 11 that October  not only made its presence felt, but is remembered for a whisky-fuelled social life in which Reid played his full part. He also served on the UK delegation to the Council of Europe.

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Increasing his majority to 7,341, he was made the SNPs spokesman on devolution. Labours formidable Scottish Secretary Willie Ross had previously opposed any form of home rule, but the SNPs gains at the two elections forced Wilson into a U-turn.

Reid was sure that Labour would try to get away with as little devolution as it could, and drag its feet. So he demanded a timetable for the first elections to a Scottish Assembly, and called for it to have real power over nationalised industries, Government ministries in Scotland, employment, social services and oil, insisting: The dignity of Scotland demands a Scottish Prime Minister and a Scottish Cabinet.

Reid repeatedly accused Wilson of breaking his commitments, and when Labours devolution White Paper appeared in November 1975, declared: The people of Scotland expect to be disappointed. They did not expect to be insulted.

With legislation on the way through, he warned presciently that devolution would not be a settlement but a continuing process. Where it stops will be decided only by the people of Scotland.

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When the referendum finally came, a clerical error led to Reid and his wife being given two votes each: one for their house in Glasgow and one for its garage.

In the May 1979 election triggered by the no-confidence vote, Reid lost his seat to the future Labour minister Martin ONeill by 984 votes  one of the SNPs least bad results.

He returned to broadcasting, presenting Agenda for BBC Scotland and in 1980 scripting a BBC Two documentary chronicling the theft of the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey by nationalist students in the 1950s.

Reid also produced the now-famous reportage by Michael Buerk of the Ethiopian famine of 1984 that inspired the Band Aid and Live Aid charity campaigns. This led to his being headhunted by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent.

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He spent 12 years with the global humanitarian organisation in Geneva, as its head of information, director of public affairs and finally director of its International Campaign for Victims of War. He worked worldwide in conflict and disaster zones.

Notably, he headed the international relief effort in Armenia following an earthquake in 1988 which killed up to 50,000 people and left 130,000 needing medical attention. His efforts, and those of his team, were recognised with the Gold Medal of the Supreme Soviet of Armenia and the Pirogov Gold Medal of the USSR.

Campaigning in Blairlogie, 2003 - James Fraser

With devolution under a Labour government again in prospect, Reid re-entered Scottish politics at the 1995 SNP conference, drawing on his knowledge of European politics to argue how the party could prosper if a Scottish Parliament were established. Labours Shadow Scottish Secretary, George Robertson, had claimed that devolution would kill the SNP stone dead; to this Reid replied: Ho, ho, ho.

At the 1997 election he fought Ochil, essentially his former seat, limiting ONeills majority to 4,652. As a fresh referendum brought an overwhelming Yes vote and the Bill establishing a Scottish Parliament went through, he served, as the SNPs vice-convenor, on its pre-establishment Consultative Steering Group.

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At the first Holyrood elections in 1999, Reid was elected as a list MSP for Mid-Scotland & Fife. At the opening of the Parliament, Steel defeated him 82-44 to become its first Presiding Officer; Reid became one of Steels deputies.

Steel stood down at the 2003 election, when Reid was returned as constituency MSP for Ochil. Elected unopposed as Presiding Officer, he was made a privy counsellor in 2004; he also became convenor of the Scottish Parliamentary Bureau and the Scottish Parliament corporate body.

The corporate body had had since Donald Dewars Labour administration a chequered reputation because of the explosion of the cost of the parliaments futuristic building. At its opening in 2004, Reid paid tribute to it as an architectural achievement, and urged parliamentarians to listen to the building to inspire them in their endeavours.

Queen Elizabeth II flanked by George Reid, Presiding Officer (right), and First Minister Jack McConnell (left) for the start of the ceremonies to mark the opening of the Scottish Parliament in 2004 - Andy Barr/PA

Reid, while Presiding Officer, won the Heralds Scottish Politician of the Year award in 2003 and 2005, the first person to do so twice; this was followed in 2013 by a lifetime achievement award.

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He chose in 2007 not to seek re-election as Presiding Officer or as an MSP. Out of office, he was appointed a visiting professor at Glasgow and Stirling universities; led a review of the administration of the Northern Ireland Assembly; and conducted an internal governance review for the National Trust for Scotland. He also joined the EUs Caucasus-Caspian diplomatic commission, and from 2010 to 2014 served on the Electoral Commission.

In 2013 he underwent major surgery for bladder cancer. He resigned all his positions, then made a good recovery.

Reid was at various times president of the Royal Commonwealth Society Scotland, patron of the Scottish Disability Equality Forum, chair of the Scottish Press Awards, vice-chairman of the Carnegie Commission on Civil Society, and a trustee of the Edinburgh International Tattoo.

He was appointed Lord-Lieutenant for Clackmannanshire in 2007, and in 2008 and 2009 served as Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Sovereigns personal representative. He was knighted in 2012, and made a Knight of the Thistle by Queen Elizabeth II three months before her death.

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George Reid married first, in 1963, Catherine Stott (later womens editor of The Sunday Telegraph) and, secondly, in 1968, Daphne McColl, who survives him along with a daughter. Another daughter predeceased him.

Sir George Reid, born June 4 1939, died August 12 2025

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Missourians who had their eyes to the skies Tuesday night in hopes of catching the Perseid meteor shower, were surprised to see something much bigger than a shooting star.

Witnesses all across the Show-Me State, and in Kansas and Illinois, took to social media to share what they captured, and to ask, What did I just see?

It looks like a portal trying to open up, said Rex Howlett as he was recording from Waynesville, Missouri, Tuesday night.

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Despite most agreeing it was a man-made object traveling across our skies, there is ongoing debate over whether it was a satellite or rocket, and who it belongs to.

Some speculated it was a satellite, a drone, a rocket, or something even stranger, like aliens or a UFO.

Daniel Bush, a Missouri photography enthusiast, captured a timelapse of what he first called a fuel dump as it traveled above Albany, Missouri.

Bush tells Ozarks First on Wednesday there is ongoing debate among experts, so he cant be sure as to what happened or what it was.

As speculation continues, some online are pointing to a Vulcan Rocket that was launched last night as part of its first mission for the U.S. Space Force.

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The United Launch Alliance was touting the success of the launch from Cape Canaveral Tuesday night, describing it on Facebook as the First National Security Space Launch aboard Vulcan rocket delivers USSF-106 spacecraft directly to GEO.

However, the sightings were likely none of those theories, according to an astronomer interviewed by CBS News.

In CBS News coverage Wednesday, Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, said the timing and trajectory of the Vulcan Rocket would not have lead to people in the Midwest witnessing its launch into space Tuesday night.

Instead, he told CBS News that he believes the sightings were likely that of a different rocket launched by the European Space Agency around the same time.

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ArianeSpace, a company that works with the ESA, said it launched an Ariane 6 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana, around 9:37 p.m. local time, CBS News reports.

Pitts told CBS the rocket was carrying weather satellites into orbit, and its flight path could have been close enough to the East Coast for people on the ground to see it clearly.

While we wait for real confirmation, its a reminder that despite the thrill of theories conspiracies, sometimes the least exciting explanation is the correct one.

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SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) Protect and serve is not just a motto but a lifestyle for one Smith County lieutenant who is protecting her hometown.

Nikki Keegan, one of the few women in command at the Smith County Sheriffs Office, demonstrates how perseverance and dedication can help anyone achieve their goals. Keegan grew up in East Texas and is now one of the women in blue protecting her hometown.

Being able to give back to my community that I grew up in is, I guess, personally fulfilling, Keegan said. Its a good community.

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SUV crashes into Piada restaurant at The Village at Cumberland Park in Tyler

Keegan started her law enforcement career as a UT Tyler graduate, entering the force in Arlington.

I took some criminal justice classes and I was hooked; that was what I wanted to do, Keegan said. I learned quickly that even if you want to be a detective, you still have to work your way up, youve got to start on patrol.

Keegan worked as a street officer for six and a half years, and learned the meaning behind the words protect and serve, then wanted to take things a step further and started as a detective.

They had a position open for a domestic and sex crimes detective, and I put in for that and I was selected, Keegan said.

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Woman arrested in Longview after 40 grams of illegal drugs found inside her home

After several years on the force, she took a break to focus on family and raising her four sons, but that passion for service never waned, and when she returned to work in her hometown, she started climbing the ranks.

Ive just been kind of working my way up as a detective and detective sergeant, and then I was lieutenant over communications for a little while, Keegan said.

While working, she also started furthering her education by pursuing a masters degree in criminal justice and executive management. Keegan credits her support system for keeping her motivated during the hectic time.

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My support system is what helped push me, Keegan said. I was like, I dont have time for this, Im busy at work, Ive got kids, but my husband said, You can do this, and Ill help.'

Her advice to other women is not to be afraid to put in the hard work, something she learned from her field training officer.

One of my field training officers was female, and she pushed me so hard, Keegan said. I wasnt thankful for it at the time, but after I was.

Now Keegan uses that same drive every day, helping protect East Texans.

Set your goals and just keep pushing forward to get where you want to be, Keegan said.

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PARSIPPANY, N.J. (PIX11)  Neighbors in Parsippany were woken up Wednesday morning to the sound of gunshots when a federal search warrant didnt go as planned.

The incident happened around 6 a.m. on Kingston Road, near the intersection with Route 202.

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The Drug Enforcement Association said it was executing a court-authorized search warrant along with federal partners when shots were fired. One suspect was shot and transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No agents were injured.

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We got woken up at 6:15 a.m. for an active shooter to evacuate the house, said neighbor Anthony Vermont. We had to get our kids and get out.

I see like, a smoke grenade or something, that they threw and there was just smoke everywhere, said neighbor David Ernest.

Cell phone video shows a SWAT team take one man into custody before calling for anyone else inside to make themselves known.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

Neighbor Walter Borecki said the homes usual residents did not appear to be there. I know the lady, she lives with her daughter and the baby, said neighbor Walter Borecki. I havent seen them in weeks, so I think theyre on vacation.

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Multiple residents said the neighborhood is not prone to crime. Safe, very safe neighborhood, said Vermont. Great neighborhood. Ive been here for 42 years. This is the first time theres been a problem.

Both the DEA and FBI continue to investigate.

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Emergency crews were on the scene of a train derailment involving about 35 Union Pacific cars in Palo Pinto County near Gordon, Texas.

The derailment happened on Monday afternoon.

Union Pacific told Fox News Digital the derailment happened at about 2 p.m. on Monday, 2 miles east of Gordon. The spokesperson added that nobody was injured in the derailment.

Midwest Biofuels Plant Explosion, Building Collapse Leaves 3 Dead, Including 2 Children

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The Palo Pinto Fire Department responded to the scene and is working to contain a grass fire, the spokesperson noted.

About 35 cars from a Union Pacific train derailed nearly 2 miles outside of Gordon, Texas on Aug. 12, 2025.

c, despite prior concern that hazardous materials were being transported in the cars.

Read On The Fox News App

Texas Driver Catches Dramatic Partial Overpass Collapse On Video

About 35 cars from a Union Pacific train derailed nearly 2 miles outside of Gordon, Texas on Aug. 12, 2025.

While no evacuations were ordered, residents have been urged to avoid the area.

Truck Explosion Caught On Camera In Suburban Chicago Neighborhood As Leaking Propane To Blame: Officials

FOX 4 in Dallas reported that Palo Pinto County officials said none of the train cars were leaking contents.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Palo Pinto County officials for comment.





Original article source: Smoke pours from train derailment in Palo Pinto County, Texas
Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy announced that the monthly allowance of Rs 3000 will be given to the children of AIDS patients on Tuesday. Furthermore, along with the health department at Kamban Kalaiyarangam, the CM announced that travel expenses for treatment will be increased from Rs 400 to Rs 1000. A nutritious meal of Rs 1300 will be provided to AIDS patients. Following this, an educational scholarship of Rs 5000 will be provided to students in schools, and Rs 15,000 to those in colleges. Additionally, a funeral fund of Rs 15,000 will be provided to those suffering from AIDS. Meanwhile in Tripura, on the occasion of International Youth Day, the Tripura State AIDS Control Society organised the state-level Bell of Awareness programme on Tuesday at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, while attending the programme, said that parents should pay special attention to their children in the fight against drugs. He also emphasised that Red Ribbon Clubs should be increased in schools and colleges to fight HIV/AIDS, because if everyone works together, Tripura can be made an HIV-free state. At the programme, Saha, who is also the Health Minister, said, "I felt very happy at this programme that, with the ringing of a bell, about 6,000 students joined the preventive awareness programme against AIDS today. We are really worried about the way HIV is spreading in the North Eastern region, including Tripura. Currently, Tripura ranks fourth among the eight states of the North Eastern region, and this position has become a matter of great concern." Giving information, Saha said that the AIDS Control Society has undertaken the task of creating awareness among about 2,31,000 students from Class 8 to 12 in about 1,187 government and government-aided schools. Awareness talks are very important to stay away from AIDS."So far, about 3,433 HIV/AIDS-infected people in Tripura have been provided with a monthly allowance of Rs. 2,000," he added. (ANI)
11 people displaced, dog and pet bird dead after fire tears through Medford home

Eleven people were displaced and two pets were killed in a fire that tore through a home in Medford on Wednesday morning.

The fire broke out at a home on Fern Road just after 6 a.m., which is located less than a mile from Interstate 93. Smoke could be seen for miles as firefighters battled the blaze.

Six children and five adults escaped the burning home by the time crews arrived, but a dog and a bird perished in the fire, according to Medford Deputy Fire Chief Tom Brennan.

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Brennan noted that two families and visitors were staying at the home.

Video from the scene showed raging flames shooting from solar panels on the roof of the home.

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Medford, Fern Road Fire

Medford, Fern Road Fire

Medford, Fern Road Fire

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Medford, Fern Road Fire

Medford, Fern Road Fire

Medford, Fern Road Fire

Once it got up into the attic, it was very stubborn, Brennan said of the fire.

Brennan noted that the home is likely a total loss.

There were no reported injuries in the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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(FOX40.COM)  SMUD is hosting a launch party for teachers, homeschool educators and other instructors to ring in the new school year on Wednesday.

Video above: McNair High teachers concerned about classroom conditions

Educators in the Sacramento area will be able to participate in hands-on activities and receive curriculum ideas for their students at the Aerospace Museum of California from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Galt Police arrest suspect who threatened family with knife

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According to SMUD, the event will be a networking opportunity. Food, music, beverages, raffles and a year-long membership to the museum will also be included.

Local leaders from Sacramento State, Sacramento Republic FC, Learn Fresh, Department of Water Resources, the California Association of Science Educators and more will be attending to showcase their educational resources.

SMUD event information can be found on its website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  Step into the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina on any given day, and volunteers can be seen busy at work packing food, because nowadays, busy is the norm.

Even at the height of the pandemic, we are seeing more hunger today than we had seen at that time, Amy Beros, the president and CEO of the food bank, said.

That rush is now coupled with fear about cuts to SNAP benefits and food assistance programs after Congress passed President Donald Trumps Big Beautiful Bill.

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These cuts are not hypothetical, theyre not symbolic, theyre a direct attack on working families, Senator Lisa Grafstein said at a press conference at the food bank on Wednesday.

President Trumps bill implements cost-saving changes to the SNAP program starting in 2026. Back in 2021, President Joe Biden expanded the program with a price tag of about $19 billion.

In a statement, NCGOP leaders said President Trumps bill restores SNAP to serve the truly needy while ending fraud and waste within the system.

Gregory Jones knows firsthand what its like to need the help. Hes been a SNAP recipient, he says, his entire life.

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Without it, the question too often became, do we eat tonight or do we pay the utility bill? Jones said.

He and Democratic lawmakers are urging the General Assembly to step in now and make sure these programs are funded in North Carolina, and that food stays on the table.

Cuts to SNAP arent just budget line items; they are a fast track to greater poverty, more houselessness, and worsening public health, Jones said.

Senator Grafstein says she hasnt heard directly from Republicans, who control both the state House and Senate. She did say that on calls about the cuts, Republicans did not seem concerned.

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I dont know how we got to a place where we have to have a press conference about the fact that its a good idea to make sure children have food; this should not be a partisan or political or controversial issue, Senator Grafstein said.

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Remember in July when the heat dome was causing extreme heat in Delaware?

It was so hot that some people were wishing for cooler days without oppressive heat.

According to the Farmers' Almanac, your wishes will be granted this winter.

The almanac released its winter forecast and if it's correct, First State residents may need a new parka and boots.

Here's what to know about the Farmers' Almanac winter forecast.

What is Farmers' Almanac winter forecast for Delaware?

Delaware, which the Almanac placed in the Northeastern, is expected to have a cold and snow-filled winter.

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"Areas up and down the Atlantic Coast will see significant rain, mixing with snow from time to time," the Farmers' Almanac winter forecast said. "The Mid-Atlantic region is forecast to see some decent snow, especially for areas in the mountains."

NOAA vs. Old Farmer's Almanac: What will Delaware's fall weather look like?

Was Farmers' Almanac correct last winter?

The Farmers' Almanac batted .500 last year.

The Farmers' Almanac called for "stormy with above-normal amounts of winter precipitation and near-to above-normal temperatures. Snow will be most prevalent over the interior and mountainous terrains, while sleet and rain will be more common near the coast, especially near and along the I-95 corridor, which includes Wilmington.

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The Almanac was correct about the above-normal amounts of precipitation, but the form it took was not correct. Delaware got a lot of snow last winter. There were eight snow events in Delaware last year. Wilmington Airport received about 10 inches of snow last year. Southern Delaware was hit the worst with two major snowstorms.

According to information from the DEOS Snow Monitoring Network, Bridgeville had 20.5 inches of snow this winter, closely followed by Ellendale with 19.9 inches. Stockley had 17.7 inches, and Nassau had 17.1.

When is the first day of winter?

The first day of winter, or the winter solstice, is Dec. 21.

Meteorological winter begins on Dec. 1.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Farmers' Almanac winter prediction: Here's the Delaware forecast
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A 39-year-old man, who admitted to manufacturing and selling drugs and repeatedly stealing from neighbors during multiple crime sprees between 2019 and 2024, was sentenced to state prison last week.

Sheriffs Office: Repeat offender linked to other thefts

The El Paso District Attorneys Office made the announcement on Wednesday, Aug. 13, in a news release.

Armando Bejarano. 39, from Socorro, pleaded guilty on Thursday, Aug. 7, to 24 felony offenses in the 168th District Court, according to the DAs Office.

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Man with extensive record arrested again after alleged chase with police

Bejarano pleaded guilty to multiple first-degree, second-degree, third-degree, and state jail felonies, including: three counts of manufacturing or delivering a controlled substance, 13 counts of theft of property, two counts of evading arrest or detention with a vehicle, two counts of criminal mischief, as well as unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, burglary of a building, abandoning/endangering a child, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, according to the DAs Office.

Bejarano was sentenced to 15 years in state prison on each of the first and second-degree counts. He also received the maximum 10 years on each third-degree felony charge and the maximum of two years on each of the state jail felonies, according to the DAs Office.

Man arrested 27 times, has extensive criminal history

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The DAs Office said the sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time. Bejarano also waived his right to all appeals.

For too long, this Defendant wrecked havoc on his neighbors by stealing and vandalizing their property, dealing drugs in their neighborhood, and engaging in other lawless behavior, said District Attorney James Montoya. My Office is committed to not only resolving our oldest pending cases but prioritizing prosecutions against repeat offenders like this Defendant.

In addition, the DAs Office said Assistant District Attorney Linda Estrada represented the State of Texas in the prosecution of this case.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
SIPESVILLE, Pa.  Meyersdales North Street Bridge, closed to traffic for nearly a decade, could have been an escape route for residents the night of the May 13 flood, county officials said.

Thats a reason why the Somerset County commissioners are making their case to the state to fund its replacement.

The commissioners voted Tuesday to apply for nearly $6 million in Multimodal Transportation Fund grants, half of which would be used to repair the Meyersdale bridge. The rest, through a separate application, would be used to repair a Great Allegheny Passage crossing.

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The North Street Bridge has been closed now for some time  years before the flood, Commissioner Pamela Tokar-Ickes said. The goal would be ... to get it reopened for vehicle traffic again.

Somerset, Maryland took different paths in flood recovery; figures illuminate damage toll

Hard-hit Somerset County residents and small businesses have applied for nearly $2 million in recovery support since a flood devastated the region in May, emergency management officials said.

The North Street Bridge was designed to connect North Street to Second Avenue, but the aging span was deemed structurally unstable after it was struck by a commercial truck in 2017.

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It remained usable by pedestrian traffic until an annual inspection raised additional load-bearing concerns, Commissioner Irv Kimmel Jr. added.

The bridges deck was removed, and it has been fenced off to traffic since.

The cost to repair the bridge is too steep for county officials to tackle alone, the commissioners said. But if the state awards a $3 million multimodal grant toward the effort, officials said they will explore funding possibilities to help cover the countys local share  which, at 30% of the total grant amount, would be approximately $900,000.

GAP bridge

The countys resolution for the second multimodal application, at just over $2.99 million, would repair a Great Allegheny Passage bridge that is still open for hikers and bikers.

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But the span over the Casselman River is due for repairs, and with the countys picturesque mountainside crossings a major draw for GAP riders, officials dont want to wait for its condition to worsen to address the issue, board members said.

PHOTO GALLERY | 'As long as it takes': Shapiro says help for flood victims available; state will help region rebuild

Southern Somerset County will continue to have the state's unwavering support, Gov. Josh Shapiro said, even as efforts from the flood are shifting from cleanup to reconstruction.

The bridge is a centerpiece to Somerset Countys segment of the trail, President Commissioner Brian Fochtman said.

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Somerset County dedicates a portion of its hotel tax dollars for trail maintenance annually. But the bridges repair is a big-ticket item, Tokar-Ickes said.

Its not hard to find funding to build new recreation trails, but finding money to maintain existing ones is a whole different story, she said.

The multimodal fund is one of a few options, Tokar-Ickes said.

A decision on the multimodal grant could come late this year or in early 2026, depending on the state budget, the commissioners said.

Somerset County commissioners outline disaster recovery fund plan, make $10,000 donation

The Somerset County commissioners will rely on an advisory board and eight flood-damaged communities to decide how a new disaster recovery fund is spent, they said Tuesday.

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The board met Tuesday at the Sipesville fire hall as part of an occasional series of evening meetings during the spring and summer months.

Black lung benefits

Federal lawmakers could soon be considering whether to boost monthly benefits for black lung benefit recipients. The Somerset County commissioners approved a resolution urging Pennsylvanias senators and U.S. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler to support an increase.

Somerset County, which has a rich mining heritage, is also still home to 92 disabled retired miners or their families who receive payments from coal exposure complications, the board said in the resolution Tuesday.

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FEDERAL FALLOUT | 'Do the most amount of good': Emergency services keep eye on what FEMA revisions could mean

A review of the Federal Emergency Management Agency ordered by President Donald Trump should bring a streamlining of the organization. That may lead to greater responsibility for disaster response transferring to the state and local levels, area leaders said.

Most of the recipients are widows whose husbands died from lung disease complications, Tokar-Ickes said.

She said the board has passed resolutions supporting each time benefits were set for review.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  The Sonya Massey Act, which aims to increase police accountability by revising hiring procedures in Illinois, was signed into law Tuesday and will take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

The new law enacts more thorough background checks in law enforcement hiring. Employers will need to dig into a candidates past for misconduct and disciplinary issues.

Previous employers will now be required to submit personnel records when requested by a prospective law enforcement agency.

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Communities should be able to trust that when they call the police to their home, the responding officer will be well trained and without a history of bias or misconduct, Gov. JB Pritzker said. Police officers should know theyre serving alongside responsible and capable individuals.

Former Sangamon County Sheriffs Deputy Sean Grayson is accused of shooting and killing Sonya Massey in her apartment in July 2024, after responding to her home for reports of a possible intruder.

Full Coverage: Sonya Massey

The shooting was ruled unjustified, and Grayson was charged with murder.

Grayson had previously worked at six police departments in a four-year time span, including the Logan County Sheriffs Office and the Girard Police Department, where he had a history of disciplinary issues.

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Sangamon County reaches settlement agreement with Sonya Masseys family

He also pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor DUI cases and was discharged from the Army before his career in law enforcement.

This is an important day for everyone who cares about public safety and accountability in the state of Illinois, perhaps across the country, Pritzker said. What happened to her was the very definition of injustice. We cant bring her back, but we can let her spirit guide us to action.

Deputy involved in Sonya Massey shooting worked for 6 agencies in 4 years, records show

The bill was co-sponsored by State Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield).

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Sonya was a regular visitor to my home. We visited on my front porch a week before her murder, Turner said. I feel confident going forward and over time our communities and law enforcement will have built a trusting relationship, and I will have kept my promise to my childhood friend, Sonyas mother.

Fundraiser for Illinois woman shot by deputy eclipses $500,000

The bill also had support from the Illinois Sheriffs Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.

I miss my mom every single day. It hurts shes not here with me. I am very happy we can get a bill put in her name and live on forever, Malachi Hill-Massey, Sonyas son, said.

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Sean Graysons trial is set for Oct. He has pleaded not guilty.

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Illinois law now requires that prospective police officers approve the release of personal background records in response to last summers shooting of Sonya Massey, an unarmed Black woman, in her home by a sheriffs deputy who had responded to her call for help.

Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday signed the legislation, which requires disclosure of everything from job performance reports to nonpublic settlement agreements. It resulted from indiscretions that came to light in the background of Sean Grayson, the ex-sheriffs deputy charged with first-degree murder in the case.

Pritzker, surrounded by Masseys family in the state Capitol, said the first-in-the-nation law should serve as an example for other states as he let Masseys spirit guide us to action.

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Our justice system needs to be built on trust, the Democrat said. Communities should be able to trust that when they call the police to their home, the responding officer will be well-trained and without a history of bias or misconduct, and police officers should be able to trust that they are serving alongside responsible and capable individuals.

The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Doris Turner, a Springfield Democrat and friend of the Masseys, and Chicago Democratic Rep. Kam Buckner, who noted that Thursday marks the 117th anniversary of the three-day Race Riot in Springfield that led to the founding a year later of the NAACP.

Who is Sonya Massey?

Massey, 36, was a single mother of two teenagers who had a strong religious faith and struggled with mental health issues. In the early morning of July 6, 2024, she called 911 to report a suspected prowler outside her home in the capital city of Springfield, 201 miles southwest of Chicago.

Grayson and another deputy searched but found no one. Inside Masseys house, confusion over a pot of hot water Massey picked up and her curious response to Grayson  I rebuke you in the name of Jesus  which the deputy said he took to mean she wanted to kill him, prompted him to fire on Massey, hitting her right below the eye.

What prompted the legislation?

The 31-year-old Grayson was 14 months into his career as a Sangamon County Sheriffs deputy when he answered Masseys call. His arrest two weeks later prompted an examination of his record, which showed several trouble spots.

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In his early 20s, he was convicted of driving under the influence twice within a year, the first of which got him kicked out of the Army. He had four law enforcement jobs  mostly part-time  in six years. One past employer noted that he was sloppy in handling evidence and called him a braggart. Others said he was impulsive.

What does the law require?

Those seeking policing jobs must sign a waiver allowing past employers to release unredacted background materials, including job performance reports, physical and psychological fitness-for-duty reports, civil and criminal court records, and, even otherwise nonpublic documents such as nondisclosure or separation agreements.

Policemen stand guard during a demonstration calling for justice for Sonya Massey in Chicago on August 17, 2024. - Vincent Alban/Reuters

It isnt punitive to any police officer. The same kind of commonsense legislation needs to be done nationwide, James Wilburn, Masseys father, said. People should not be able to go from department to department and their records not follow them.

The hiring agency may see the contents of documents sealed by court order by getting a judges approval, and court action is available to compel a former employer to hand over records.

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Several departments need to pick up their game and implement new procedures, but whats listed here (in the law) is what should be minimally done in a background check, said Kenny Winslow, executive director of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, who helped negotiate the proposal.

Would the law have prevented Graysons hiring?

Ironically, no. Most of what was revealed about Grayson after his arrest was known to Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who was forced to retire early because of the incident. Campbell was aware of Graysons shortcomings and, as a result, made him repeat the states 16-week police training course.

Even an incident that didnt surface until six weeks after the shooting  a dash-cam video of Grayson, working as a deputy in a nearby county, ignoring an order to halt a high-speed chase and then hitting a deer with his squad car  would not have disqualified him, Campbell said at the time.

We cant decide who they do or dont hire, but what we can do is put some parameters in place so that the information will be there and the right decision can be made, Buckner said.

Whats next?

Grayson, who also faces charges of aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct, has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to go to trial in October.

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Publicity persuaded Judge Ryan Cadagin to move the proceeding from Springfield to Peoria, 73 miles to the north. The incident has garnered international news coverage, prompted activists rallies, and led to a $10 million civil court settlement.

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The White House responded late Wednesday to Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner after he warned President Donald Trump to steer clear of America's birthplace when it comes to the way the feds took over Washington, D.C.'s law enforcement apparatus in response to its crime wave.

"Of course this Democrat, Soros-backed DA is upset that the president is taking bold action to crack down on violent crime," White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson told Fox News Digital.

"Philly has allowed crime to run rampant and provided sanctuary to violent criminal illegal aliens. And George Soros is funding protests against law and order in DC."

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Jackson said the Democrats' approval rating remains at "record lows" because of figures like Krasner "oppo[sing] commonsense efforts to stop violent crime and restore safety to Americas streets."

Late Tuesday, Krasner told CNN that Trump "better not try it in Philly"  and called him a "convicted criminal" who allegedly opposes public safety and wants to be a "dictator."

As Trump Intervenes In Dc's Crime Crisis, Another Violent City's Da Gets A Challenger From Inside The Tent

Read On The Fox News App

Philadelphia DA Lawrence Krasner, left, President Donald Trump, right

"[Trump] may think hes going to try it in other places. But the fact is, legally, he has much less of a right to do any of this in other cities," said Krasner, who has been backed by left-wing Hungarian-American billionaire George Soros.

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"Donald Trump is the emergency, folks If you want your democracy, you better stand up now."

The warning came days after a Democratic former jurist announced he would run on the Republican line in November in hopes of defeating Krasner and ending the city's own crime troubles  which led Philadelphia Democratic Party boss Bob Brady to boot Judge Patrick Dugan because "we don't want liars in our party."

Krasner went on to underscore Trumps convictions in New York City and claimed he "pardons people who are criminals and do pretty dastardly things"  going on to blame the president for the deaths of five law enforcement officers who responded to the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot.

"There is no indication that this man is in favor of law-abiding behavior of public safety. But he is in favor of power. He is in favor of fascism. He is in favor of ending democracy."

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Dc Attorney General Brian Schwalb Slams Trump's Federal Takeover, Breaking With Police Union

When asked what he would do if Trump tried to incur into the sixth-largest city in the U.S.  which, notably, has one of the largest so-called "open-air drug markets" in the Kensington neighborhood  Krasner said he hopes there will be judges in Pennsylvania who "still believe in the law, even if some of his hacks on the Supreme Court do not."

Krasner said Philadelphia is the "cradle of democracy" and "thats why our name has been in [Trumps] mouth in malicious ways for a very, very long time."

Dnc Vice Chair Compares President Trump To Notorious Segregationists During Heated Town Hall Event

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The prosecutor dismissed claims about rampant crime in Philadelphia, claiming homicides are the lowest in 50 years and that there are also low incarceration rates.

"This is a profoundly unAmerican attempt to exercise power in ways that are illegal, to scare big cities, and to go after Democratic cities that are diverse, to serve his racist, fascist agenda [W]e all have to stand up to it," Krasner said.

Pennsylvania Republicans in the state legislature  with a GOP-controlled Senate and narrowly Democratic-controlled House  attempted to impeach Krasner in 2022. The effort was halted by Judge Ellen Ceisler, who ruled the legal standard of "misbehavior in office" was not met by the seven articles filed by the House.





Original article source: White House blasts far-left DA's warning that Trump 'better not try' DC-style takeover 'in Philly
JOHANNESBURG (AP)  The South African government on Wednesday dismissed the U.S. State Departments latest assessment of the countrys human rights conditions as inaccurate and deeply flawed.

The Trump administration this week released human rights reports for countries worldwide, including South Africa, asserting that the state of human rights in South Africa had significantly worsened in 2024. It cited the unjust treatment of white Afrikaners after the signing of significant land reforms, which the Trump administration has claimed discriminate against the group that ruled the nation during the apartheid era.

South Africas Foreign Ministry expressed profound disappointment with the report, saying its reliance on out of context information and discredited accounts was highly concerning.f

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The ministry highlighted that the United Nations had hailed the countrys Land Expropriation Act as an important step in resolving racially unequal land ownership, underscoring the integrity of constitutional and human rights-based legislative processes.

It added that the report was ironic given the U.S exit from the U.N. Human Rights Council.

This is particularly striking given the significant and documented concerns about human rights within the United States, including the treatment of refugees and breaches in due process by its own agencies, such as ICE, the ministry said.

South Africa's government also dismissed as inaccurate the report's claims that it did not take credible steps to investigate, prosecute and punish officials who committed human rights abuses, including inflammatory racial rhetoric against Afrikaners and other racial minorities, or violence against racial minorities.

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The U.S. criticism of South Africas domestic affairs is the latest in a series of tense diplomatic exchanges between the two countries since President Donald Trump was elected to a second term.

During a state visit to the White House in May, Trump confronted President Cyril Ramaphosa with false claims that South Africa had been illegally occupying the farms of white Afrikaner farmers. The administration even speeded up the visa application processes for Afrikaners who wanted to relocate to the U.S as refugees.

Along with suspending financial aid and imposing 30% tariffs on South Africas exports to the U.S., Trump has denounced the countrys stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was expelled by the U.S. for his criticism of Trump, who has hinted that he may not attend the G20 summit of world leaders scheduled to take place in Johannesburg in November.

The Afrikaans trade union Solidarieit, which was criticized by Ramaphosa over a recent visit to Washington, has announced new plans to visit the U.S. in September to meet with the Department of State and other parties to discuss abolishing racial-redress laws, reestablishing diplomatic ties, and creating a fair trade agreement between the two countries.
"Restrictions were imposed on our borders from 10 last night, under which we do not allow any commercial vehicles to enter Delhi. These restrictions will remain in place until the arrangements at Red Fort are over... We have restrictions on the ring road that goes towards Raj Ghat because there is movement of VIPs there...," he said.

Last week, on Saturday, a high-level meeting was held at the Delhi Police Headquarters to discuss final stage preparations for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.

According to the officials, two meetings at different levels were held at the Delhi Police headquarters.

District DCPs, Special CP, Joint CP, Zonal incharge and Sector incharge of the Red Fort were present in the meeting, stated a senior police official.

It was the final stage discussion on the multiple layers of security which would be in place at the Red Fort, along with the anti-drone systems and facial recognition technology.

Emphasis was laid on the need for advanced information regarding the movement of suspicious individuals and vehicles. Measures to prevent unauthorised border intrusions were discussed.

Traffic restrictions and management plans were reviewed to ensure smooth vehicular flow during the celebrations.

On August 8, an Interstate Coordination meeting was also held at Delhi Police Headquarters ahead of Independence Day celebrations to strengthen cooperation and coordination among various Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and to address various issues related to preparation ahead of the celebrations.

The Commissioner of Police, Delhi, S.B.K. Singh, chaired the meeting, which was attended by Senior Police Officers from Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, along with Senior officers of Central Intelligence/Enforcement Agencies. (ANI)
South Africa has rejected a US government report accusing it of moving towards land seizures from white farmers, calling the allegation deeply flawed and inaccurate.

The claim was made in the latest annual human rights report from the US State Department, which has faced criticism for softening language on the abuses of Washingtons allies while targeting governments it clashes with.

In its section on South Africa, the report said the government had taken a substantially worrying step towards land expropriation of Afrikaners and further abuses against racial minorities, describing the situation as worsening.

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This was a marked shift from last years assessment, which found no significant change in the countrys human rights record.

We find the report to be an inaccurate and deeply flawed account that fails to reflect the reality of our constitutional democracy, Pretorias foreign ministry said on Wednesday, adding its profound disappointment at the claims.

The statement also reminded Washington that it had quit the UN Human Rights Council  therefore no longer seeing itself accountable in a multilateral peer review system  while issuing one-sided fact-free reports without any due process or engagement.

South Africa criticises US plan to resettle white Afrikaners as refugees

Trade tensions

The reports release comes days after Washington imposed 30 percent tariffs on a range of South African exports  the highest for any sub-Saharan country.

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Trade ties are already under strain, with Pretoria keen to preserve access to the US market for agricultural, automotive and textile goods that support tens of thousands of jobs at home.

President Donald Trump has criticised South African land and employment laws aimed at tackling racial inequality decades after apartheid ended.

Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed legislation allowing land expropriation without compensation in certain cases. It is part of a long-running effort to address the racial imbalance in land ownership.

Most farmland is still in white hands despite years of reform. While the law is described as a targeted, last-resort measure, it has faced strong criticism abroad  especially in the US, where Trump has echoed far-right claims of violence against racially disfavoured landowners and issued an executive order for the US to resettle Afrikaners.

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Trump ambushes South Africa's Ramaphosa over 'genocide' accusation

Accusations of selective reporting

This years Human Rights Report has itself drawn scrutiny. Officials say it was delayed for months while Trump appointees revised it to fit America First priorities. The final version reduced criticism of governments such as El Salvador and Israel and removed most references to abuses against LGBTQI communities.

Rights groups and former officials say the changes reflect political convenience rather than impartial assessment.

The report demonstrates what happens when political agendas take priority over the facts, said Josh Paul, a former State Department official, likening the final product to a Soviet propaganda release.

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The section on Israel left out any mention of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, despite local health officials reporting more than 61,000 deaths there since October 2023. By contrast, countries such as Brazil and South Africa  both in dispute with Washington on several issues  faced stronger criticism.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce defended the revisions as making the report more readable and trimming what she described as politically biased demands and assertions.

She declined to explain the removal of El Salvadors extensive abuses from the document.

Africans accuse Trump of chasing minerals and mocking their presidents

Pretoria stays defiant

South African officials say the government remains committed to constitutional protections and that land reform is being carried out within the law to promote equality.

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Pretoria is seeking to counter the US criticism while maintaining its trade ties with Washington.

The US is its third-largest trading partner, but South Africa has been expanding links with other major economies such as China to the EU.

That gives it some room  at least in theory  to push back against what it sees as biased portrayals from the United States.

(with newswires)
South Africa said it will submit a revised offer for a US trade deal in an attempt to lower the 30% tariff rate imposed on exports from Africas biggest economy.

The duty, which came into effect on Aug. 7, is the highest tariff imposed on a sub-Saharan African country.

The new offer substantively responds to the issues the US has raised to build on a previous offer made in May, the government said on Tuesday. But the leader of the Democratic Alliance, the second-largest party in South Africas coalition government, told Reuters the 30% tariff is likely to remain in place unless Pretoria changes some domestic race policies. US President Donald Trump has previously criticized affirmative action initiatives designed to redress inequalities caused by apartheid.

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South African officials have warned the tariff threatens 30,000 jobs in the country, with the key automotive and agricultural sectors most vulnerable. However, JPMorgan said on Tuesday that the levy was likely to have a limited effect on South Africas markets because traders have largely priced in the reality of higher tariff headwinds.
South Dakota Public Broadcasting livestreams state Senate floor debate on Jan. 21, 2025. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

A committee of South Dakota lawmakers endorsed a proposal Tuesday to provide more video livestreaming of the legislative process and heard how water-damaged technology could affect a special legislative session next month.

South Dakota Public Broadcasting  which is part of state government  already provides video livestreaming of state House and Senate floor sessions, as well as meetings of the Legislatures Appropriations Committee. Other committee rooms are only equipped for audio livestreaming.

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The Legislatures Executive Board, which met Tuesday at the Capitol in Pierre, endorsed a $36,442 plan to put video livestreaming equipment in the other five committee rooms. The proposal will go to the full Legislature as part of a supplemental budget bill this winter.

House Speaker Jon Hansen, R-Dell Rapids, the chairman of the committee, advocated for the plan.

For the transparency that it brings to this process, to be able to look and see the people presenting, to look at the presentations that are being presented, and also just the awareness of whats going on in this building during the legislative session, I think its great, Hansen said, and I think itll only enhance that.

Public broadcasting cuts discussed

Senate Majority Whip Randy Deibert, R-Spearfish, asked whether South Dakota Public Broadcasting will have the capacity to handle the additional responsibility. The organization is considering budget cuts and layoffs after it lost about $2 million of annual support  roughly 20% of its budget  when Congress and President Donald Trump defunded the Corporation for Public Broadcasting last month.

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Elijah Rodriguez, chief information technology officer for the Legislative Research Council, said he has assurances from South Dakota Public Broadcasting that it will be able to handle the additional video archiving and management of video livestreams on its SD.net website and YouTube, regardless of whether they have staff cuts or not.

House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish, asked about the possibility of the Legislative Research Council taking over video livestreaming and archiving duties. The councils director, John McCullough, said it would require the council to purchase equipment and hire additional staff.

It could be absorbed, McCullough said. It would just cost money.

Water leaks damage House technology

Rodriguez updated the committee on damage caused by water leaks this summer in the House chambers technology equipment closets. He said the leaks occurred during large rainstorms in May and June while the roof was undergoing repairs. There was about $185,000 worth of damage, he said, which he hopes insurance will cover.

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But theres a four-month lead time on replacement equipment, which is all custom-built. Because of that, a Sept. 23 special session to consider a prison construction plan could be affected. Rodriguez said the electronic board that displays roll-call vote results in the House might not be available, and some representatives voting buttons at their desks might not work.

We are building a contingency plan to have a workaround and still be able to operate in the House just in case that equipment isnt fully functional, Rodriguez said.

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AMERICUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Forty licensed practical nurses have begun their journey to becoming registered nurses in South Georgia Technical Colleges first semester of offering a new LPN to RN bridge program.

The college says the 40 new cohorts were selected out of a pool of 125 applicants.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: How a rural Georgia hospital and local technical college are bridging the gap on nursing shortages

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WRBL News 3 previously covered the colleges new program that was approved at the May meeting of the Georgia Board of Nursing (GBON). The program comes at a time where many hospitals and medical facilities are facing nursing shortages.

It is something that weve gained a lot of support for from the community, said President of SGTC, Dr. John Watford. Our medical professionals are excited about this opportunity because they need the nurses.

In an orientation address to the incoming class, Dr. Watford expressed his excitement for the new recruits.

You are making history today, Dr. Watford said. For each of you that was accepted into this very first class, there were over two other people who applied to be part of this initial class. We are pleased to be able to offer this new program at South Georgia Technical College and I look forward to seeing each of you walk across the stage in a year to receive your degree.

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Officials with SGTC say the school has been offering its licensed practical nursing program since 1953 and can now offer a career advancing degree to those on the Americus campus.

Photo courtesy of SGTC

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
HOUSTON - Dozens of rats have been seen in and around an apartment complex on Houston's south side.

FOX 26 went to the area on Tuesday and spoke to residents who are fed up with the rodents.

Cullen Park Apartments rat problem

This is happening at Cullen Park apartment homes off Cullen Boulevard.

Residents say they have been dealing with A/C issues, maintenance issues, roaches, and even rats inside their units, and that complaints to management have gone unanswered.

What they're saying

One resident says she has been living at the complex since 2021, and that things have been bad for over a year.

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She says her stove and fridge do not work, tile has been coming up from her kitchen floor, that her water has been broken since July, and now she says she's concerned her family is getting sick from black mold in the apartment.

She also said she's scared for her children, saying the rats around the apartments are as big as cats.

What's next

FOX 26 reached out to the Houston Health Department (HHD) about the issue.

According to a representative, the department visited the complex on Tuesday evening and confirmed "significant rodent activities." They plan to issue a violation notice to the property management on Wednesday.

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They also shared that they closed four cases at the complex recently, including one rodent cast.

They say they've reached out to the apartment's management team, and provided guidance about rodent control.

The department says they've asked the complex to give them a plan for getting rid of the rodents from the property.

The Source

Information in this report came from residents at the Cullen Park Apartments and the Houston Health Department.
South Korea is looking to develop a new air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM), joining a group of nations that are looking to introduce this capability, or which already have weapons of this kind in operational service. If successful, the program could see the missile fielded on South Koreas locally developed KF-21 fighter jet, an aircraft you can read more about here.

The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) submitted data about the air-launched ballistic missile program last week to lawmaker Yoo Yong-won, a member of the National Assemblys National Defense Committee, the Dong-A Ilbo newspaper has reported. Yoo is a member of South Koreas main opposition People Power Party.

South Korea has officially announced the development of an air-launched hypersonic ballistic missile.

Two missiles will be armed on the KF-21 and are expected to be based on the KTSSM series missiles. The concept is similar to the Israeli Air LORA and ROCKS, or the American Mako. pic.twitter.com/kMPrQkAbEW  Mason  (@mason_8718) August 12, 2025

The ROKAF submission confirms that the service is looking seriously at a hypersonic air-to-ground guided missile, as well as whats described as a long-range blackout guided missile.

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The hypersonic missile is a reference to an ALBM, since this kind of weapon  like many ballistic missiles  arrives at its target with a hypersonic or near-hypersonic terminal velocity. Meanwhile, the other program refers to a weapon thats engineered to disable power distribution. To achieve this, such missiles are normally loaded with carbon fiber strands.

Returning to the ALBM initiative, Dong-A Ilbo reports that the missile would be capable of speeds exceeding Mach 10, although the precise performance parameters are unclear. Hypersonic speed is typically defined as anything above Mach 5. Potential targets for the weapon outlined in the newspaper report include nuclear and missile facilities. These would certainly be high on the list of objectives South Korea would want to knock out in the early phase of a conflict with North Korea.

There has been speculation that South Korea might use its KTSSM (Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile), a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), as the basis for the ALBM, although other options are available, including adaptations of other surface-launched missiles, or a clean-sheet design.

The test launch of a South Korean ballistic missile is shown in a video released in 2021. South Korean Ministry of Defense

The Dong-A Ilbo report draws a parallel between the Russian Kinzhal ALBM, an adaptation of the Iskander SRBM, which has been used in the war in Ukraine, although there are other ALBMs also in operational service, notably in China. Meanwhile, Israel has developed several air-launched versions of SRBMs and artillery rocket designs.

A Russian MiG-31 armed with a Kinzhal missile on the centerline. Russian Ministry of Defense

Overall, an ALBM offers significant benefits for carrying out standoff strikes, especially against highly defended, time-sensitive, and hardened targets. These are very much the kinds of targets that the ROKAF would be expected to prosecute in a shooting war with North Korea.

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In the past, TWZ has looked in more detail at the specific advantages that an ALBM can provide:

Ballistic missiles, in general, reach high-supersonic, if not hypersonic speeds (above Mach 5) in the terminal phase of flight. That speed increases the capacity of these weapons to burrow down into hardened targets and also reduces their overall flight time, making them particularly well-suited to striking hardened and/or time-sensitive threats. Fast-flying ballistic missiles are also very challenging to intercept and otherwise give opponents limited time to react in any way.

Many modern ballistic missiles also have some ability to maneuver during portions of their flight, which can be used to help reduce the chance of interception. The ability to follow a so-called porpoise or skip-glide trajectory, which involves the missile abruptly pulling up at least once, but potentially multiple times, which then creates an equal number of downward steps, is a prime example of this kind of capability.

With a range of surface-launched ballistic missiles and artillery projectiles already being produced by South Korea, this could offer a relatively quick path to acquiring ALBM capabilities. As long as North Korea continues to develop its nuclear capabilities as well as harden other critical military infrastructure, South Koreas need for such a weapon is likely seen as increasingly critical.

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There is already speculation that the likely launch platform for the ALBM would be the KF-21, which would ease the process of integration, since this can be done locally, without the involvement of a foreign original equipment manufacturer. Alternatively, the ROKAF also operates the F-15K Slam Eagle, which has a prodigious load-carrying capability and would also lend itself to being armed with ALBMs, provided that Boeing and the U.S. government supported this effort. There is also the large ROKAF fleet of F-16s, which could also be used for launching small-to-medium-sized ALBMs.

A ROKAF F-15K drops two Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) onto an island target in response to a North Korean IRBM launch earlier the same day, on Oct. 4, 2022. Photo by South Korean Defense Ministry via Getty Images

At this point, its worth noting that Israel has made extensive use of its F-15s and F-16s to launch weapons in this class against critical targets around the Middle East, especially against Iran, where they knocked out air defenses and struck other highly-defended sites at long distances. Israel has an expanding armory of ballistic missile and artillery rocket designs adapted for air launch, including the Israel Military Industries (IMI) Rampage, based on a long-range artillery munition, and the Rafael Rocks was developed from Israels line of Sparrow ballistic missile test targets. More recently, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) unveiled an air-launched version of its LORA (Long Range Artillery), an SRBM originally developed for surface launch.

An Israeli F-16 carrying a pair of Air LORA missiles under its inner underwing pylons. IAI

Already, the KF-21 has been identified as the launch platform for a locally produced bunker-busting air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), which would provide another means to attack targets deep within North Korea. You can read more about that initiative here.

A red-and-white-painted ALCM test round carried by an F-4E Phantom II fighter jet during trials. The new ALCM for the KF-21 is understood to be this same weapon or a development of it. YouTube Screencap

The size of an ALBM would rule out internal carriage in the planned stealthier version of the KF-21, known as the KF-21EX, which you can read more about here. While internal weapons carriage is the distinguishing feature of this aircraft, the basic KF-21 would rely instead on the ALBMs standoff range to ensure it can survive in the face of ever more capable North Korean air defense systems. This is an area in which Pyongyangs capabilities appear to be increasingly aided by Russia, in return for North Korean support for its war in Ukraine.

An officially released computer-generated rendering from KAI shows the KF-21EX with its new, twin internal weapons bays open. KAI

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As well as the ALBM and previously known ALCM, the ROKAF is also eyeing the aforementioned long-range blackout guided missile.

According to the Dong-A Ilbo report, such a weapon would be primarily used to knock out the power supplies for North Korean strategic facilities such as substations supporting national command posts. The weapon would also have a standoff range, so it could be launched from outside the range of air defenses around the heavily defended targets.

The U.S. military has a relatively long history of using these kinds of weapons against power infrastructure.

In 1991, the U.S. Navy fired so-called Kit-2 Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAM) into Iraq. These dropped spools of highly conductive carbon fiber wire over power stations and distribution nodes, causing short circuits. Though there are few other available details about this configuration, the missiles were reportedly responsible for decimating Iraqi power generation during the conflict.

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In 1999, F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighters did the same thing in Serbia, but this time using special cluster bombs full of BLU-114/B submunitions. The press quickly dubbed these previously undisclosed weapons, each full of graphite filament, soft bombs and blackout bombs. South Korea clearly sees the potential of weapons of this kind to be used against North Korea, and the concept is very much in keeping with its wartime plans against its neighbor, which would rely on disabling Pyongyangs military communications and command systems, effectively blinding its military and regime and breaking its decision cycle.

Notably, South Korea has been working on these kinds of weapons for some time. According to reports, Seouls Agency for Defense Development (ADD) has been developing blackout bombs since 2012. The implication is that an existing free-fall bomb in this class would be provided with standoff range by combining it with the propulsion system from a Cheonryong ALCM. This is a relatively small cruise missile, which can be launched from an FA-50 light combat aircraft (as seen in the video below), and which could also arm the KF-21.

As well as using wires or filaments, these kinds of weapons can also employ directed energy, an area in which the U.S. military has been active. In 2012, the Counter-electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project, or CHAMP, emerged. Unlike the earlier weapons, this standoff cruise missile features a powerful microwave emitter that can knock out electronics with its pulsing beam. South Korea might also look to develop a payload in this class. This should produce more consistent and repeatable effects, as well as narrowing the focus of an attack closer to the target itself, and otherwise limit any collateral impact.

An artists conception of the CHAMP weapon. Boeing capture

While an ALBM and a blackout bomb would be important additions to the ROKAF armory, its also worth noting that they could both be compelling export products at a time when the South Korean defense industry is winning ever more high-profile orders. If both these weapons can be integrated on the KF-21, that would also make the aircraft even more attractive for export customers, provided that Seoul releases these technologies for sale to foreign nations.

Thanks to @mason_8718 for bringing details of this development to our attention.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
(Fixes spelling of the spokesperson's name in paragraph 2)

By Heejin Kim

SEOUL (Reuters) -South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will visit Japan from August 23-24 and hold a summit with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Lee's office said at a briefing on Wednesday.

The leaders will discuss ways to improve regional peace and boost trilateral cooperation with Washington, Kang Yu-jung, Lee's spokesperson, told reporters. Kang did not specify the date of the summit during Lee's two-day visit.

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Lee has in the past been critical of efforts by administrations in Seoul to improve ties with Tokyo, though when he met Ishiba for their first summit on the sidelines of a G7 meeting in Canada in June they vowed to deepen the relationship.

Ties between the U.S. allies have often been strained, rooted in historical disputes stemming from Japan's colonial rule over the Korean peninsula from 1910-1945.

Their second summit meeting will also take place as the Asian economic powerhouses grapple with the implications of U.S. tariffs imposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Lee's trip to Japan comes just ahead of his visit to the U.S., where he is scheduled to hold a summit with Trump on August 25.

(Reporting by Heejin KimEditing by Ed Davies)
South Korean prosecutors raided the headquarters of the former party of jailed ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday to gather evidence in an election meddling case against his wife, a day after she was arrested on corruption and other charges.

Former first lady Kim Keon Hee was arrested late Tuesday on a range of charges including stock manipulation and corruption, prosecutors said.

Her arrest came hours after Seoul Central District Court reviewed the prosecutors' request for an arrest warrant against the 52-year-old.

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The court granted the warrant, citing the risk of tampering with evidence, after prosecutors submitted an 848-page opinion laying out Kim's alleged "unlawful acts".

Prosecutors said Wednesday they raided the People Power Party office to collect evidence of Kim's alleged meddling in parliamentary elections.

Yoon quit the party in May after his removal from office but endorsed its candidate in the snap presidential election that was won by the Democratic Party's Lee Jae Myung.

Opposition leader Song Eon-seog slammed the raid as "nothing short of gangster behaviour".

"I cannot contain my outrage at the Lee Jae Myung administration's ruthless political persecution and retaliation against the opposition, spearheaded by the special prosecution," Song said at a news briefing.

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With the arrest, South Korea now has a former president and first lady both behind bars for the first time in the nation's history.

The charges against Kim include violations of capital market and financial investment laws, as well as political funds laws.

The arrest caps a dramatic fall for the former first couple after Yoon's stunning martial law declaration on December 3, which saw soldiers deployed to parliament but was swiftly voted down by opposition MPs.

Yoon, a former top prosecutor, was impeached and removed from office in April over the martial law declaration, prompting the country to hold a snap election in June.

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He has been in detention since July 10.

- Criticised over handbag -

Last week, Kim underwent hours-long questioning by prosecutors, who filed for an arrest warrant the next day.

"I sincerely apologise for causing trouble despite being a person of no importance," Kim said as she arrived at the prosecutors' office on Wednesday.

Controversy has long surrounded Kim, with lingering questions about her alleged role in stock manipulation.

Public criticism was reignited in 2022 when a left-wing pastor filmed himself presenting her with a Dior handbag that she appeared to accept.

She is also accused of interfering in the nomination process for MPs in Yoon's party, a violation of election laws.

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Yoon, as president, vetoed three special investigation bills passed by the opposition-controlled parliament that sought to probe the allegations against Kim, with the last veto issued in late November.

A week later, Yoon declared martial law.

Investigators also searched an interior company allegedly linked to Kim in connection with suspected favouritism in repairs to the presidential office.

While she would typically have been held at the same detention centre as her husband, prosecutors on Monday requested that she be detained at a separate facility about 20 kilometres (13 miles) away.

Her Presidential Security Service protection was terminated once the warrant was issued.

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Kim can be held for up to 20 days as prosecutors prepare to formally indict her, legal expert Kim Nam-ju told AFP.

"Once Kim is indicted, she could remain detained for up to six months," the lawyer said.

The former first lady can challenge the warrant in court as unlawful, "but given the current circumstances, there appears to be a high risk of evidence destruction, making it unlikely that the warrant will be revoked and the individual released," he added.

"Another option is bail, but this too is not granted if there are concerns about the destruction of evidence."

hs/mtp
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Frustration mounts in a South Plaza neighborhood following a string of car break-ins. Neighbors said they dont know where to turn next for a solution.

Neighbors said criminals broke into about a dozen vehicles, shattering car windows early Tuesday morning. They said this is the second time in less than a month its happened.

Sun Fresh near 31st, Prospect in Kansas City closes its doors

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Its incredibly frustrating for us to be going through this multiple times, neighbor Michelle Kurkowski said. It does decrease our sense of security living here.

Car windows were smashed in an otherwise quiet south plaza neighborhood, and the HOA caught it on camera.

Neighbors said theyre frustrated as its not the first time their vehicles have been damaged or stolen. They said criminals broke into about a dozen vehicles overnight, with multiple windows shattered. You can see glass still in pieces on the ground.

Its crazy, its basically twice in two weeks, Kurkowski said.

Kurkowski has lived at the Villa Plaza Condominiums for more than a year. Most people own their condos and park in their parking lot or on the street.

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She said in the last month, criminals hit their area twice, breaking into vehicles.

In security camera footage from the HOA, you can see a dark colored vehicle pull up at about 4:45 a.m. Tuesday. Three people get out and scatter, looking inside different vehicles. Then, glass shatters.

It has been extremely frustrating, Kurkowski said. Last time we called and made a police report, and nobody came out and so we were worried it was going to happen again, and then it did.

Kansas City Police said their property crimes detectives are investigating.

At this point police said theres no suspect information.

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Criminals have hit Kurkowskis car twice, shattering different windows. She said theyve spent about $1,000 on repairs.

When they called Tuesday, the repair man recognized her.

We should not be that familiar with the Glass Doctor, Kurkowski said. He did a great job, but dont want to see him that often.

There have been break-ins over the years, but not on this scale, HOA President Mark Johnson. It needs to stop.

Johnson is in his 16th year as HOA president.

He said last month, criminals stole one car and broke into five others.

They shared security camera footage from July. You can see at least five people in hoodies. Some used flashlights to look inside vehicles. Then, again, we hear glass breaking.

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This is a nice neighborhood, Johnson said. People are not going to leave money, guns, drugs in their car.

Last time we had a couple of $5 bills, they didnt even take those, Kurkowski said. I have no idea what theyre looking for, I dont know if theyre finding it.

Kurkowski said they want the break-ins to stop, noting its shattering their sense of security.

None of us have anything in our vehicles. Some of our vehicles have been smashed multiple times, and theres nothing in there of value, Kurkowski said. We know to keep our cars empty now. And so, were just frustrated and confused as to why it keeps happening, scared its going to continue to happen and that theres not going to be any repercussions.

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Johnson said they would like to see increased police patrols in this area.

He said they may also have to look at hiring private security.

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On Tuesday, the Associated Press, citing six people with knowledge of the matter, reported that Israel was holding discussions with Juba to resettle Palestinians from Gaza in the East African nation.

South Sudan is not in talks with Israel to resettle Palestinians from war-torn Gaza, South Sudan's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the Associated Press, citing six people with knowledge of the matter, reported that Israel was holding discussions with Juba toresettle Palestinians from Gaza in the East African nation.

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"These claims are baseless and do not reflect the official position or policy of the Government of the Republic of South Sudan," South Sudan's foreign affairs ministry said in a statement.

Israel's military has pounded Gaza City in recent days prior to its planned takeover of the shattered enclave which is home to more than 2 million Palestinians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday reiterated a view - also enthusiastically floated by U.S. President Donald Trump - that Palestinians should simply leave Gaza.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visits Ground Forces headquarters, July 23 2025 (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT)

'Another Nakba'

Many world leaders are horrified at the idea of displacing the Gaza population, which Palestinians say would be like another "Nakba" (catastrophe) when hundreds of thousands fled or were forced out during the Arab-Israeli war of 1948.

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In March, Somalia and its breakaway region of Somaliland also denied receiving any proposal from the United States or Israel to resettle Palestinians from Gaza, with Mogadishu saying it categorically rejected any such move.

South Sudan's Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba visited Israel last month and met with Netanyahu, according to the foreign ministry in Juba.

Last month South Sudan's government confirmed that eight migrants deported to the African nation by the Trump administration were currently in the care of the authorities in Juba after they lost a legal battle to halt their transfer.

Since achieving independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has spent nearly half its life at war and is currently in the grip of a political crisis, after President Salva Kiir's government ordered the arrest of Vice President Riek Machar in March.
Congress MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring criticised BJP MP Jagdambika Pal for not allowing the Opposition to speak during the Zero Hour of the Parliament. This comes after Opposition MPs raised slogans and protested over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar and "threw pieces of paper" at Jagdambika Pal, who chaired the Lok Sabha in the absence of Speaker Om Birla. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, Warring alleged that the Opposition MPs are asked to sit down within 30 seconds while the MPs from the NDA are allowed to speak for 4-10 minutes during the Zero Hour. "If democracy and the Constitution of the country survive, we will be able to stand and speak in Parliament. Otherwise, we have seen that in Zero Hour, Opposition parties are not allowed to speak, we are made to sit down within 30 seconds while they are allowed to speak for 4-10 minutes," he said. Further, flagging "vote theft", Warring said that democracy and the Constitution would come under threat. He said, "The biggest issue is of vote theft. If vote theft continues like this, democracy and the Constitution would come under threat. We were anyway suspicious for the last 5-7 years...Going into details, Rahul Gandhi proved before the world that democracy is now confined to just paper. Vote theft has happened on a large scale." Hitting out at BJP MP, he said that Congress has caught their "vote theft" in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar. "Had there not been theft, there would not have been the previous Central government, and they would not have had their government in several states. So, I would like to tell Jagdambika Pal that the SIR, the 'theft' they are going to do in Bihar, we have caught it," the Congress MP said. Earlier, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised Opposition MPs in the Lok Sabha for throwing pieces of paper towards the Chair. Rijiju said, "All of us saw the conduct of the Opposition today, they threw pieces of paper towards the Chair and did petty sloganeering...We have come to the House by taking an oath." BJP MP Jagdambika Pal alleged that opposition MPs carried out this conduct on the signals of Deputy Leader of Opposition, Gaurav Gogoi. "What happened in the House today wasn't done by the MPs, the Deputy Leader of Congress signalled them, handed them the paper for them to tear it up. No Deputy Leader would display such irresponsible actions..." Pal said. (ANI)
A police officer in Riverside County was arrested on allegations that he sexually assaulted several victims while on and off duty.

The officer was identified as Juan Pesina, 31, of Menifee, according to the Riverside County Sheriffs Office. Pesina is an officer with the Menifee Police Department.

On July 22, Menifee police received a complaint involving sexual assault allegations against an officer. An internal investigation later identified Pesina as the suspect. The department requested an independent investigation by the Riverside County Sheriffs Department to ensure impartiality.

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Pesina was initially accused of sexually assaulting a person during an on-duty investigation. Detectives later found additional victims in incidents that occurred in Riverside County between 2023 and 2024. He allegedly encountered these victims while on duty and off duty, authorities said.

On Aug. 12, a search warrant was served at Pesinas home and at his workplace, where additional evidence in connection with the case was found.

Pesina was arrested for multiple felony charges including rape, sodomy, and forced oral copulation.

He was placed on administrative leave as the investigation continues. No further details, including the victims identities, were released.

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Investigators believe there may be more victims who have yet to come forward. Anyone with information on the case can call Riverside County Sheriff Investigator Andrade at 951-955-1701 and reference case number MB25-205-0002.

The Menifee Police Department remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of integrity in law enforcement, a spokesperson said in a statement. We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and will continue to cooperate fully with investigative authorities.

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The Brief

A Menifee Police officer was arrested after allegations of sexual assault.

Juan Pesina was booked on four felony charges, including rape.

Pesina is on administrative leave while the department investigates the charges.

MENIFEE, Calif. - A police officer in Riverside County was arrested on Tuesday, after his department received a complaint alleging he sexually assaulted someone.

What we know

Juan Pesina, an officer with the Menifee Police Department, was booked Tuesday on four felony sex crime charges, including rape, according to county arrest records.

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The Menifee Police Department started their investigation in July, after they received the report. The report didn't name the officer. Investigations by the MPD and the Riverside County Sheriff's Office concluded that Pesina was connected to the allegations.

The department put Pesina on administrative leave as they continue to investigate the allegations.

SUGGESTED: Man shot and killed during road rage incident in Menifee

What you can do

Anyone with any information about this case should contact the sheriff's department at 951-955-1701.

What's next

Pesina is due in court on Thursday.

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Are you or someone you know a recent survivor of sexual assault? Help is available. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) provides a 24/7 national sexual assault hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-656-4673

The Source

Information in this story is from a Menifee Police Department press release and the Riverside County Jail Information Management System.
A local wildlife rescue agency is being inundated with sick and dying seagulls.

International Bird Rescue, a nonprofit located in San Pedro, posted on social media that experts there are treating an unusual surge of sick and dying Western Gulls found along the SoCal coast from Venice and Malibu to Redondo Beach and the South Bay.

More than a dozen sick gulls have been received at International Bird Rescue since July 25, and at least three of them tested negative for bird flu. Test results for other birds that have arrived more recently are still pending.

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Palisades Charter High School students start new year at same temporary campus

Affected gulls are arriving with symptoms that include dehydration, difficulty standing, partial or complete paralysis, confusion, difficulty blinking, and, in the most severe cases, respiratory distress, International Bird Rescue said on Tuesday. Some birds have been found dead on beaches.

The organization did not disclose exactly how many birds have died in connection with the uptick.

An unusual surge of sick and dying Western Gulls found along the SoCal coast is inundating a local wildlife rescue facility. (Credit: Ariana Gastelum/International Bird Rescue) An unusual surge of sick and dying Western Gulls found along the SoCal coast is inundating a local wildlife rescue facility. (Credit: Ariana Gastelum/International Bird Rescue) An unusual surge of sick and dying Western Gulls found along the SoCal coast is inundating a local wildlife rescue facility. (Credit: Ariana Gastelum/International Bird Rescue) An unusual surge of sick and dying Western Gulls found along the SoCal coast is inundating a local wildlife rescue facility. (Credit: Ariana Gastelum/International Bird Rescue)

The most common sign of a gull or another seabird in distress is if they have difficulty walking or standing, or if they let humans approach them. Anyone who sees a bird exhibiting these symptoms is urged to contact their local animal control service or call the International Bird Rescues Bird Helpline: 1-866-SOS-BIRD (1-800-767-2473).

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For more information on how to donate to International Bird Rescue or volunteer, visit their website.

The exact ailment plaguing these birds is not known, and it has not been established whether the uptick in sick birds coincides with the thousands of marine mammals that got sick or died off the SoCal coast following a severe algae bloom earlier this year. Sickness rates from that toxic algae were declining by the end of May.

In another recent local case of animal sicknesses, multiple dogs have died this summer amid 26 suspected cases of a mystery illness affecting canines in the Venice Canals area.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Spaceport America, located about 45 miles north of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, had an economic impact of $240 million in 2024 and supported more than 300 direct jobs and nearly 800 total jobs.

That is according to a new study from the New Mexico State University Arrowhead Center and the Center for Border Economic Development, or C-BED.

The study looked at the economic impact of the first purpose-built commercial spaceport in the world from 2019 to 2024.

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The analysis looked at Spaceport Americas operations not funded by the state and focused on tenant activities and out-of-state visitor spending related to the spaceport.

Here are some key findings:

The total economic impact of Spaceport America was $240 million in 2024, up from $72 million in 2019.

The facility supported 313 direct jobs and 790 total jobs in New Mexico in 2024, up from 242 direct jobs and 396 total jobs in 2019.

The report is the second economic impact study released by the New Mexico Spaceport Authority (NMSA) and the Arrowhead Center/C-BED team.

In August 2023, a similar report was issued focusing on the economic impact for the 2022 calendar year. The most recent versions year-by-year data has yielded comprehensive information to better understand the spaceports cumulative impact, officials said.

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We are excited to see these numbers and the growing contribution the spaceport is making to the region, said Scott McLaughlin, executive director of the NMSA, the state agency that designed, developed, and oversees operations of Spaceport America. Besides bringing jobs and new money to New Mexico, Spaceport America is also helping Space Valley to grow and get noticed by the national aerospace community.

New Mexico continues to be a trailblazer in aerospace and space innovation, and having Spaceport America right here in the heart of our state ensures that legacy will only grow, said New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) Secretary Rob Black. Spaceports impact over the last six years reverberates on so many levels, from moving this key industry forward to bringing the state millions in economic impact and hundreds of high-paying jobs.

The reports analysis covers the spaceports tenant employment, privately funded construction, out-of-state visitor spending, spaceport revenues, tax revenue impact, and total economic impact.

The study also includes a brief introduction, an overview of the industry, and a summation of Spaceport Americas tenant base and other activities.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
The founder of Britains first vertical spaceport has died without ever seeing rockets launch from the UK.

Frank Strang, 67, who pioneered SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, died after a short battle with cancer.

Mr Strang was the driving force behind the spaceport, but told The Telegraph in 2023 that the fight to be taken seriously had taken a huge toll on the lives of SaxaVord employees.

As a company, weve had divorce, deaths, the bailiffs coming round, and almost bankruptcy, he said.

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Weve had to remortgage both the houses. Its almost killed me, my ashes are probably going to go up with the first launch.

Mr Strang, a former Royal Air Force physical education teacher, met his first wife Debbie when they served at RAF Lossiemouth in the 1990s.

After leaving the air force, the couple took over several decommissioned Ministry of Defence sites for regeneration, and in 2004 acquired RAF SaxaVord on Unst.

The 20-acre site had been an air force base in the Second World War, and more recently a listening post during the Cold War.

The couple initially housed gas workers at the site, but in 2017, the UK Space Agency launched a competition looking for a spaceport to partner with Lockheed Martin and ABL to develop satellite launch capability from Britain.

A feasibility study suggested SaxaVord was the best spot, but the contract was awarded to Sutherland spaceport, leaving The Strangs forced to go it alone with a core team of friends and space enthusiasts.

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Without the Governments backing, the team struggled to find investors who believed they were serious. Employees had to work on half salaries, or for free, and it was only when progress at Sutherland and other European spaceports began to falter, that rocket companies started knocking at SaxaVords door.

The spaceport was granted the first vertical launch licence from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2023 and its range licence the following year.

Two rocket companies also now have licences to launch from the site with the first lift-off expected within the next six months, delivering small satellites and space experiments into orbit.

We had a background in making things happen

Mr Strang told The Telegraph that the first launch would be two fingers up to the people who tried to put us out of business.

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When we started, we didnt have a clue what we were getting into, he said. None of us had a background in space. We just had a background in making things happen. Its Local Hero meets Rocky.

Mr Strang was forced to step back from the business in July after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. But he vowed not to throw in the towel and said he still hoped to live long enough to see the first launch.

SaxaVord said Mr Strangs death was devastating but said it made the company more determined to deliver a successful launch.

Scott Hammond, an ex-fighter pilot and deputy chief executive of SaxaVord, who is expected to take over, was one of the original founders.

Skyrora is aiming to carry out orbital launches from SaxaVord - Skyrora

He said: I have been a friend and colleague of Frank since our days together in the RAF, so his death so young is an enormous blow both personally and professionally.

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When we first identified the prospects for a spaceport at Lamba Ness in Unst, Frank would not take no for an answer and broke through barriers that would have deterred lesser people.

He was a real force of nature, and his vision and his grit got us to where we are today, bringing the Unst and Shetland communities, investors and government with us.

But our mission is not complete  my job now is to deliver not only the first launch but successive launches that establish the UK as Europes leader in access to space.

Both myself and the SaxaVord team feel a strong sense of responsibility to deliver that goal for Frank, and we will, I am in no doubt.

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Mike Mongo, the astronaut trainer and space ambassador, who helped open the SaxaVord site last year said he was heartbroken by the news.

I do not know there has been any greater champion for UK Space than Frank Strang, he said.

How often do we use the world visionary yet how many can look over crofting grounds and see an actual Spaceport?

Frank Strang built us all a future worth having and then quietly handed us the keys.

Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, added: My colleagues and I are deeply saddened by the death of Frank Strang. Frank was as unique and inspiring as the spaceport he made possible.

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His relentless enthusiasm and ability to change perceptions and confound expectations, has positioned SaxaVord, and the UK, at the forefront of access to space.

On a personal note, I will miss our direct and straight-talking conversations, and I know our whole sector will feel this loss. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and team.





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MADRID (Reuters) -Spain is seeking help from its European partners to tackle wildfires raging across the country, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska said on Wednesday.

In particular, it requested two Canadair planes, he said in an interview with local media Cadena SER.

"At the moment we don't need the two Canadair planes urgently, but, given the weather forecast, we want to have those planes in our national territory as soon as possible so they can be used, should they be necessary," he said.

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While for now it isn't necessary, the country is ready to seek more help from its European allies, such as more firefighters, he added.

In Spain, a volunteer firefighter died from severe burns and several people were hospitalised as state weather agency AEMET warned that almost all of the country was at extreme or very high risk of fire.

Spain was in its 10th day of a heatwave that peaked on Tuesday with temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit), and which AEMET expected to last until Monday, making it one of the longest on record.

(Reporting by Pietro Lombardi; Editing by Mark Porter and Aurora Ellis)
Spain is battling a series of devastating wildfires that have killed two people and destroyed thousands of hectares of forest and scrubland.

There are currently 14 major active fires, Minister for Ecological Transition Sara Aagesen told radio station Cadena Ser on Wednesday. She added that initial assessments suggest some of the fires may have been started deliberately, prompting investigations in all cases.

Authorities said around 6,000 people across several regions spent Wednesday night away from their homes, according to TV station RTVE. The situation is particularly severe in the north-western provinces of Ourense, Zamora and Leon. Seven of Spains 17 autonomous communities are currently affected.

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The two fatalities occurred in Madrid and Leon. In Tres Cantos, north of the Spanish capital, a man in his 50s died from severe burns. In Leon, a volunteer firefighter lost his life, while two people in Zamora remain in intensive care with serious injuries.

Aagesen said the unusually long heatwave, expected to continue until next Monday, is hampering firefighting efforts.

Wildfires are also affecting neighbouring Portugal, where more than 1,500 emergency personnel are battling six major fires on the mainland, Lusa news agency reported, citing civil defense sources. Authorities are particularly concerned about a blaze in Trancoso, roughly 150 kilometres south-west of Porto near the Spanish border, where over 500 personnel are deployed.
Wacky Wednesday #1: A one-day, ride all-day wristband pass to the rollercoasters and carnival rides at the Midway is available for $30. Until Aug. 19, you can buy all-day wristbands online for $30.13. Otherwise, all-day wristbands are available at the fair or online for $37 on weekdays and $47 on weekends.
The special relationship between Britain and the United States cuts across political divides, JD Vance has said.

Speaking to American soldiers at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, the US vice-president said: Over the past couple of days, Ive met with a number of leaders across the UK, across political parties, across the generations.

Because thats one of the great things about the UKs special relationship with the United States is it cuts across political alliances, it cuts across political parties, it cuts across generations, because weve been working together for literally centuries.

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And you know what every single person that I meet often tells me? They tell me about how impressed they are by the skill, by the determination and by the dedication of the American military.

Mr Vance made the speech while holidaying in Britain with his family.

He also said Britain and the United States win every single time they fight together.

Weve got a beautiful country here, he said. Weve got a beautiful alliance. And I think every single one of you know that for over 100 years, we have worked with our friends from the United Kingdom to achieve great victories.

Mr Vance added that US military strength is what allows the country to bring peace to the world.

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The fact that so many people are frankly, afraid of you, is why were able to do what we do as an administration, he said.

Mr Vance is currently visiting Britain with his family.

David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, could be fined more than 2,000 after fishing with the vice-president without a licence.

The Vance family holiday has seen the vice-president meet several political figures, including Mr Lammy, and there are plans for him to meet Robert Jenrick, the former Tory leadership contender, and Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform.

04:53 PM BST

Pictured: Vance addresses US soldiers

JD Vance during his visit to RAF Fairford - Jason Alden/Bloomberg

04:29 PM BST

Vance: Trumps policies made possible by US power

Donald Trumps policies are made possible by American military power, JD Vance has said.

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The fact that so many people are frankly, afraid of you, is why were able to do what we do as an administration, he said.

So I just want to say from the president of the United States, who, again, I just spoke to, and he told me to give you this message, were proud of you. Were grateful to you.

We know that its not always an easy job. We know there are often long hours, but I hope you know that the peace and the prosperity and the safety of your countrymen depend on you doing a good job, and we are damn proud of the job that you do every single day.

God bless you all, and thank you for having your vice president here in the UK.

04:25 PM BST

UK-US special relationship cuts across political divides

JD Vance has said the special relationship between Britain and the United States cuts across political divides.

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One of the great things about the UKs special relationship with the United States is [it] cuts across political alliances, he said.

It cuts across political parties. It cuts across generations, because weve been working together for literally centuries. And you know what every single person that I meet often tells me? They tell me about how impressed they are by the skill, by the determination and by the dedication of the American military.

04:22 PM BST

American military strength brings peace, says Vance

American military strength is what allows the United States to bring peace to the world, JD Vance has said.

The President came in six months ago, and I just talked to him right before I came on the stage, and he said very simply that we are going to make it our mission as an administration to bring peace to Europe once again, he said.

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But as you all know, it is impossible to bring peace anywhere unless the bad guys are also worried that weve got a hell of a fine air force and a hell of a fine military to back up the peace to begin with.

So what you guys do, even though you may not see it every single day, is you make it possible. You make it possible for us to accomplish the Presidents goals through negotiation.

You make it possible for us to go into a room and say, yes, we want peace. Yes, we want to work together. Yes, wed like to bring an end to this terrible conflict. But weve also got some great airmen back at Fairford and other bases.

04:20 PM BST

Vance: Brits and Americans win together all the time

JD Vance has said Britain and the United States win every single time we go to war together.

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Speaking at RAF Fairford, the vice-president said: Weve got a beautiful country here. Weve got a beautiful alliance. And I think every single one of you know that for over 100 years, we have worked with our friends from the United Kingdom to achieve great victories.

And if you look at the long sweep of history, every time something big happens for the world, every time a great victory is won for freedom and for peace and for prosperity, it is almost always the Brits and the Americans that do it together.

And we win every single time we go to war together. You guys know that as well as anybody.

04:16 PM BST

Vance comes on stage

JD Vance is making his way to the stage to make his speech.

04:16 PM BST

Vance to address soldiers in front of spyplane

JD Vance will addess American soldiers stationed in Britain in front of a spyplane.

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Service personnel and their families gathered in an aircraft hangar at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire on Wednesday afternoon.

The base is home to those serving with the United States Air Forces 501st Combat Support Wing and the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron.

Mr Vance will receive a briefing on the bases capabilities and give a speech in front of a U-2 Dragon Lady spy plane - an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft - with the backdrop of a large American flag.

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The Brief

Spirits are high as incoming students prepare to move into the dorms at Atlanta's Spelman College this week.

This year, two residence halls of the HBCU have been renovated with a new layout, an elevator, a ground-floor entrance, and microfridges in each room.

The Move-In Day Mafia and its mob of volunteers are also heading to the campus to surprise three students with personalized dorm rooms at the start of their college journeys.

ATLANTA - More than 600 students are making Atlanta's Spelman College their new home this week.

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With the help of the Move-In Day Mafia, some of these new students will receive a special surprise for the upcoming school year.

What we know

Spirits are high as the Spelman College freshman prepare to move in to their new dorms.

This year, two residence halls of the HBCU have been renovated with a new layout, an elevator, a ground-floor entrance, and microfridges in each room.

Hundreds of students are making Atlanta's Spelman College their new home this week. (FOX 5)

Each dorm also features added electronic security and access measures to enhance campus safety.

This week's new student orientation will introduce the freshmen to the academic, social, and cultural community of Spelman College.

What they're saying

Mom Joslyn Jackson was very happy that her daughter was heading to Spelman.

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"No words can describe what its like for a Spelman mom to have her daughter come to Spelman," she told FOX 5. "I'm really proud."

Her daughter, Morgan Jackson, felt the same happiness as she prepared for her college experience.

"When I walk through these halls, I truly feel like Im walking in her footsteps," she said.

Dig deeper

The Move-In Day Mafia and its mob of volunteers will descend on the campus and surprise three students with personalized dorm rooms to kick off their college journey.

The nonprofit is dedicated to helping teenagers who have aged out of the foster care system get settled into their dorm rooms.

The Move-In Day Mafia surprises a new student with a full personalized dorm room. (FOX 5)

"They think were too good to be true, and they typically dont believe us till they see us on move-in day," founder Teej Mercer told FOX 5 last year.

What's next

Looking ahead, construction on a new 660-bed residence hall is set to begin in May 2026. The new hall will replace two older dorms on campus.

The Source

FOX 5's Kaitlyn Pratt reported this story out of Atlanta. Additional information came from previous FOX 5 reporting.
Bharatiya Krishak Samaj President Krishan Bir Chaudhary lauded the government's efforts to protect farmers, cattle rearers, and fishermen, while applauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement that "India will never compromise on the interests of farmers". Chaudhary also emphasised the importance of adopting 'Swadeshi' to drive national progress, urging a boycott of American products. Speaking to ANI, he said, "The Prime Minister took very clear steps to save the farmers, cattle rearers and fishermen of the country... The country will progress only if we adopt 'Swadeshi'. We have to use our own products. We will boycott American products... What is the reason that everything is produced in our country, yet we are pressured to import? Mistakes were made in all the international agreements that were made before, and the farmers of the country have borne the consequences of those mistakes. And today, the price of agricultural products needs to be maintained... In the field of agriculture, we will not use any American product...". Krishan Bir Chaudhary attended the Kisan Samvad Program held by the Union Minister of Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, at Subrahmanyam Hall in New Delhi on Tuesday with several farmer leaders and union representatives. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his determination to protect the interests of farmers in the wake of tariff pressures and said it has been decided that there will be no compromise with the interests of the farming community. Chouhan referred to PM Modi's remarks that no matter how much loss he personally incurs, there will be no compromise with the interests of farmers. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi said recently that no matter how much loss I personally incur, but the interests of farmers will not be compromised. This is the voice of India, the voice of farmers... Farmer brothers, be assured. If there is some difficulty, we will see. We will find new markets, and India itself is such a big market that our things will be consumed here. The population of the whole of Europe is 50 crore, America's is 30 crore, our population of 144 crore is not our weakness; it is our strength. That is why this decision was taken. It is also testing time, we don't have budge, bow..." Chouhan said. The US imposed 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods last month and increased it to 50 per cent over the import of Russian oil. (ANI)
SPENCER, Iowa (KCAU)  The Spencer Hospital is debuting a new emergency department.

Officials with the hospital said the new department will help them serve their community with patient-centered care.

Story continues below

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This new Emergency Department reflects our commitment to continual growth and improvement in caring for our community, says Brenda Tiefenthaler, Spencer Hospital President & CEO. While the space has changed, one thing remains constant  the compassionate, expert care of our team. This new facility enhances that care with greater privacy, comfort, and efficiency.

The facility can be found at East 11th Street, which is off Grand Avenue.

Want to learn more on the hospitals website? Click here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
Did you see that spiral-shaped light in the sky last night?

No, it wasn't part of the Perseid meteor shower, which also peaked overnight on Aug. 12. The surreal, squiggly glow appears to have been caused by a European rocket that launched Tuesday evening.

The light was visible for at least a few minutes in parts of Canada and the United States, including in Milwaukee.

Here's what we know about that light in the sky and what caused it:

What was the light in the sky over Wisconsin on Tuesday night?

The spiral glow was likely caused by the deorbit, or return to Earth, of Europe's Ariane 6 rocket, according to an X post by astronomer Jonathan McDowell.

The deorbit burn of the Ariane 6 upper stage occurred at 0235 UTC Aug 13 (10.35 pm EDT Aug 12). Spinup and propellant dump at about 0245 UTC was widely observed in the eastern US and Canada as Ariane 6003 headed downhill for reentry over the Indian Ocean half an orbit later  Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) August 13, 2025

Ariane 6 launched at 9:37 p.m. local time on Aug. 12 from Kourou, French Guiana, per Arianespace, the French company behind the rocket. The rocket's purpose was to place one of Europe's newest weather satellites into orbit.

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After releasing the satellite, Ariane 6 was heading back down to Earth for reentry over the Indian Ocean at around 10:35 ET Aug. 12, McDowell wrote on X.

In the process, it left behind a trail of unburn propellant, which caused that corkscrew-shaped light that people in Milwaukee and other parts of the eastern U.S. and Canada spotted.

Liftoff of Ariane 6 flight #VA264 launching Metop-SG-A1 and Copernicus Sentinel-5A to orbit! pic.twitter.com/7HTlq6c9Ow  European Space Agency (@esa) August 13, 2025

See pictures and videos of Ariane 6 deorbit

Here are some pictures and videos sky watchers across the country captured of the Ariana 6 deorbit:

The surreal spiral in the night sky from Quebec to Wisconsin?



No, it's not a #UFO or #perseids - its likely the plume or upper stage from a Vulcan or or Ariane 6 rocket caught during the #perseidmeteorshower. pic.twitter.com/gX8ATJInlT  OrbitalToday.com (@SpaceBiz1) August 13, 2025

What did I just see? **Update** Was setting up for the Perseid meteor shower when this object was passing right overhead and through the Big Dipper. Correction, just found out this was Ariane 6 Upperstage venting propellant pre de-orbit burn. Aug 12th 10:35 PM EDT

Anyone else see pic.twitter.com/l3A8oIuOZ1  Francis Murphy (@fxsmurphy) August 13, 2025

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rocket deorbit causes spiral light over Wisconsin Tuesday night
(WTAJ)  Many Pennsylvania residents looked up at the sky Tuesday in hopes of catching the Perseid meteor shower, but instead, saw something rather strange  a spiral-shaped light.

Viewers were stunned to look up and see the light, appearing to try to take over the night sky. The pictures seen below might seem like they came straight from the X-Files.

Photos taken by Jodi Albarano Photos taken by Jodi Albarano Photos taken by Jodi Albarano Photos taken by Jodi Albarano Photos taken by Jodi Albarano

What We Know

United Launch Alliance blasted off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station just before 9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12. Its their first fully operational Vulcan rocket that was carrying two military satellites into space in the first Space Force-sanctioned flight.

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The rocket, which launched with nearly 3 million pounds of thrust and a jet of brilliant exhaust, was on an eastward projection over the Atlantic.

As rockets climb, their boosters are used and then released back down to Earth. This often results in gases from the rocket and/or its boosters crystallizing in Earths atmosphere and reflecting light.

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.

It was documented that a similar phenomenon occurred earlier this year over Europe when SpaceX released its boosters after takeoff.

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According to spaceflightnow.com, SpaceX is scheduled to launch at least four times from Florida between Aug. 14 and Aug. 21 for various missions that include launching more Starlink satellites and taking cargo to the ISS.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Spirit Airlines  which currently has several flights that depart from Rochester  expressed substantial doubt about its ability to continue due to funding issues in its quarterly report.

Like many companies, Spirit Airlines struggled to stay afloat since the COVID-19 pandemic. But unlike other major airlines, Spirit is realizing this rough patch may prove to be more than it can handle.

Back in November, the airline filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection after announcing they were running out of money. The company has lost 2.5 billion dollars since 2020.

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But it may not just be the aftereffects of the pandemic hurting its reputation. Some Rochester residents say the airline needs to rethink its entire business strategy.

People say (Spirit has) bad service, rude employees, or, you know, flight attendants and, like, (its) dirty, things like that, Rochester resident Oscar Sudilovsky said. Maybe if theyre doing something like a tier system, I would like to see what they do with that. I would consider flying.

Keith Dahozy, a resident traveling at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, said a shift in perception to the public may help the airline get back on its feet.

I think maybe kind of like a makeover, like, revamp the vibes, Dahozy said. And kind of acknowledge like hey this is the reputation we do have and we want to, like, distance ourselves from that and show that that is not us.

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Spirit is now doing all it can to save the airline, including furloughing 270 pilots, selling aircraft and real estate, and, adapting its current business model to offer flight options with tiered prices much like larger airlines.

But even with the immense struggles Spirit has faced, its been able to put off a takeover from rival budget airlines like JetBlue and Frontier, both before and during the bankruptcy process.

The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport shared a statement with News 8, saying they continue to have a solid partnership with Spirit Airlines. We are confident that all Spirit flights to Orlando, Florida, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will operate as scheduled.

Spirit Airlines stated they expect to stay in business for at least the remainder of 2025. The furloughs and downgrades will go into effect beginning October 1.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
The Brief

A bright orb surrounded by a faint, glowing mist was spotted in the night sky across the Philadelphia area.

The spooky sighting caused some to speculate if the mysterious orb was extraterrestrial or more drones.

It's likely that the sighting originated from a Vulcan rocket launch in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

PHILADELPHIA - An ascending rocket or something from beyond our world?

That's what people all over the Philadelphia area wondered on Tuesday night after spotting a mysterious, glowing orb in the night sky.

What we know

A bright orb surrounded by a faint, glowing mist was spotted over the Philadelphia area on Tuesday night.

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FOX 29 News viewers from Glenside to the Jersey shore submitted videos and photos of the mysterious orb throughout the night.

It's likely that the sighting originated from the launch of a Vulcan rocket in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

The launch, which was part of a national security launch of satellites, could be seen as far north as Delaware.

What they're saying

NASA scientist Dr. Donald Miller joined Good Day Philadelphia to explain what many people witnessed on Tuesday night.

"This is a classic rocket plume," Miller said. "When rockets go up, they have to do attitude adjustments, so you're seeing that spiral as they're actually adjusting their orbit around our planet."

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Dr. Miller explained that the rocket was seen going into "geostationary orbit" as it prepared to launch two military satellites. One of the satellites is being sent on a secret military mission and the other is being used to strengthen the country's GPS systems.

Many spotted the object late at night and believed it couldn't be the rocket launched from Florida's east coast around 8 p.m. Dr. Miller explained that the rocket mission reached several stages as it ascended through the atmosphere and traveled a tenth of the way to the moon.

"Once they get to that spot, they have to make adjustments to the attitude, so that's what you're seeing and that's why there was such a delay between the launch and when those things happened," he said.
SPRINGFIELD  Freddy Rodriguez spent much of his four years in high school caring for his ailing grandmother, and at the end of his senior year, he came up short on credits. But he didnt quit, and on Tuesday he became the first in his family to earn a diploma.

Rodriguez attended all four years at Springfield Virtual High School, which made it easier for him to work as his grandmothers full-time caregiver. But it meant he had some distractions and ended up needing to take English and Spanish in summer school.

He was one of 124 students from the 16 different Springfield public high schools who officially earned a diploma after forgoing days at the beach and fitting school around summer jobs.

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Some needed just one class. Others needed a couple, and one student from Springfield High School managed to complete six courses, three of them online.

I spent the whole summer studying. I didnt want to fail twice, said Dasanie Claudio, who graduated from Central High School after passing two math classes, history and gym. I procrastinated too much my senior year, and I wasnt going to fail again.

Speakers told the graduates they werent failures. Instead, they praised them for perseverance and willingness to get up after being knocked down.

For Claudio, she said her once-elusive diploma did not turn her off from school. She plans to work as a model, attend Springfield Technical Community College and then head to a four-year school to study business. Her goal is to become an entrepreneur and open a company focused on the fashion industry.

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Superintendent Sonia Dinnall said she was especially excited about this graduation. She told the new additions of the Class of 2025 that they had grit and determination.

You went the distance. You did not lose heart, and you didnt give up, she said.

She read a number of responses that students gave when she asked them what believe meant to them. One said it meant she could conquer all challenges. Another talked about her faith in God.

The word believe to me means, believe in the impossible, even if you dont think you can make it through. This word has helped me achieve my goals, because it pushed me to be a better version of myself, Mariah Garcia, a High School of Science and Technology graduate, wrote in her response.

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Speaking on behalf of the School Committee, member Denise Hurst continued the theme of praising the graduates for turning disappointment into success and told them to take that lesson through life.

You did not give up. Know you are the future of this great city and of this country, she said.

The ceremony also included speeches from graduates Janightda Thomas, who earned her diploma from Aspire Academy, and Karina Valladares, who received her diploma from Central High School.

Valladares said her freshman year in Springfield wasnt the best, and then she moved to Florida. When she returned, she found out some of her credits didnt transfer. She thanked teachers for finding a way for her to earn a diploma.

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They told me it was possible, no matter how behind I was, she said.

While some found fun in high school, Thomas said for her it was tough, overwhelming, and full of setbacks and self-doubt.

She said she managed to survive and become stronger, thanks to her parents, friends, teachers and counselors.

I refused to give up because I had people around me, Thomas said. As we move forward, lets carry with us the strength found in struggle, the love that lifted us and the courage to keep going.

Read the original article on MassLive.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Schools across the Ozarks are preparing for students, including private and religious schools. One of those schools in Springfield is entering its inaugural year with its first class of freshmen starting today.

Springfield Lutheran High School (SLHS) hosted a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday, commemorating the start of its first year of instruction.

This is the first Lutheran High School in Springfield. The closest Lutheran High School without SHLS is in Joplin. Executive Director Stephanie Grandestaff says this school fills a need for pre-K through 8th-grade students at Springfield Lutheran School who want to continue their education with a Lutheran background.

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New school facilities in Republic and Willard unveiled, work continues on SGF projects

Events on Wednesday started with a Chapel service recognizing the students and teachers at SLHS. The school is run out of what used to be a Lutheran middle school at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Grandestaff says a group first met in January of 2024 to start making the high school a reality, but it has been talked about for much longer.

The Lord has just gone before us every step of the way, Grandestaff said. The high school has been prayed about for decades to have a Lutheran high school in Springfield, Missouri, southwest Missouri, and so its just an incredible blessing.

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There are many other private and religious schools in the area that will soon be starting classes as well, including Oakwood Academy in Aurora, New Covenant Academy, Christian Schools of Springfield, Springfield Catholic schools and many others.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.
ENFIELD, Conn. (WWLP)  Three suspects from a Springfield shooting were arrested after striking a Chicopee police cruiser and evading officers in Enfield.

Springfield Police Spokesperson Ryan Walsh said at around 7:55 p.m. on Tuesday, officers were called to Burr Street for a report of a gunshot victim. Upon arrival, officers located the victim, who was taken to Baystate Medical Center and is expected to recover.

Chicopee police state that officers were aware that a vehicle involved in a Springfield shooting may be in their city and located it at a gas station. When officers attempted to box in the vehicle, the driver struck the cruiser and drove back into Springfield.

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East Longmeadow man sentenced for deadly shooting in Springfield

At around 10:30 p.m., the suspected vehicle was located in Enfield. Police Chief Alaric Fox of Enfield told 22News that when officers used a spike strip on Route 190, the suspects ran away from the vehicle in the area of Katie Lane. With the use of drones and police K-9s, the suspects were tracked down and arrested.

The driver was identified as 20-year-old Donovan Marsh and is being held on a $500,000 bond for reckless driving, engaging the police in pursuit, criminal trespass in the third degree, operating a motor vehicle without a license, interfering with an officer, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

The passengers, 22-year-old Jayden Caudle and 22-year-old Aida Laboy, have posted bail and are charged with interfering with police.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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SPRINGFIELD  Students in grades one through 10 at Springfield Public Schools will return to school Aug. 25. Kindergarteners will return a week later on Sept. 2, and preschool will resume on Sept. 3.

Parents should contact students schools to find out information about uniform guidelines. Bus stop information will be posted on the district website at springfieldpublicschools.com.

Before classes begin, each school will host a back to school community day during the week of Aug. 18 for the roughly 23,700 students in the system. The day will give families a chance to meet their childs teachers and other staff, pick up free backpacks and school supplies if needed, and learn about available resources. The schools will contact families to share the times of the back to school events.

Superintendent Sonia Dinnall will deliver the keynote address on teacher convocation on Aug. 22 to prepare for the start of school.

Read the original article on MassLive.
Work is continuing to transform the world's fastest ocean liner to the world's largest artificial reef.

The aft stack and last remaining onboard propeller were removed Aug. 8, according to the SS United States Conservancy, following the removal of the forward stack and mast earlier in the week.

The SS United States is at port in Mobile, Alabama, before it ends up in its final resting place in the Gulf off the coast of Okaloosa County along Florida's Panhandle.

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It's been a long road for the retired ocean liner that set the transatlantic speed record on its maiden voyage, crossing the Atlantic in 3.5 days in July 1952. It's a record that remains in place today, 73 years later.

Once the ship finishes undergoing cleaning and removal of any environmentally hazardous materials, it'll be sunk off Florida's Gulf Coast.

Florida officials are planning to build a museum on land for the ship, which will display the ship's funnels, radar mast and other components.

What is the SS United States?

The SS United States was the fastest ocean liner ever to cross the Atlantic Ocean, setting the transatlantic speed record on its maiden voyage, crossing the Atlantic in 3.5 days. It's a record that still holds today, according to the SS United States Conservancy.

Where is the SS United States now?

After being anchored at Pier 82 on Philadelphias Delaware River since 1996, the SS United States was moved to Mobile, Alabama, in February 2025.

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Its progress was tracked by thousands as it moved south along the eastern coast of the U.S. and into the Gulf.

After cleaning and renovating in Mobile  where "all of the environmentally unsafe materials will be removed"  it'll be moved to Okaloosa County, to be sunk as an artificial reef.

SS United States to be sunk off Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Florida

The ocean liner will be sunk off the coast, where it will become the "world's largest artificial reef," at nearly 1,000 feet long, according to the Destin-Fort Walton Beach's tourism website.

"She will create essential habitat for a diverse range of marine life, attracting divers and anglers from around the world, and resulting in an anticipated direct economic impact of more than $3 million per year."

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Officials in Okaloosa County bought the SS United States from the SS United States Conservancy in 2024.

"Our marine species will be the greatest benefactor as it will provide much-needed habitat for them to thrive," Okaloosa County's website said.

"In addition to the usual reef fish species like red snapper and grouper, the size of the SS United States will also attract the more pelagic species of fish such as amberjack, mackerel and tuna."

The reef is expected to attract not only anglers, but divers.

Where is Destin, Florida? Where is Fort Walton Beach, Florida?

Destin and Fort Walton Beach are located along the Gulf Coast, in the western Florida Panhandle.

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The communities are both in Okaloosa County and less than 10 miles apart. Fort Walton Beach, the farthest west, is located about 35 miles east of Pensacola. Destin is about 125 miles west of Tallahassee. The two are about 90 miles east of Mobile, Alabama.

When will the SS United States be sunk off Florida?

The SS United States is expected to be "deployed" in late 2025, according to destinfwb.com and the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners on Facebook.

It was previously estimated that remediation of the ship in Alabama would take about a year.

Where will the SS United States be sunk?

The exact location has not yet been announced.

"She will be towed to about 20 nautical miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach at a permitted location to be sunk," Okaloosa County's website said.

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"The exact location will be identified prior to the deployment date."

The proposed depth of the reef is 180 feet to the bottom and about 55 feet to the upper deck.

Can I watch the sinking of the SS United States?

"Okaloosa County will be developing a plan in the coming months to make viewing her deployment accessible either virtually or in person via the media," according to the county's website.

Museum in Destin, Florida, to preserve SS United States' memory, history

In Florida, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners voted to allocate $10.1 million to the entire project including towing operations, remediation, the purchase of the SS United States and funding to help the SS United State Conservancy create a land-based museum in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area.

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"The project has already seen a return in its efforts to promote the Destin-Fort Walton Beach destination and the history of the vessel due to the amount of interest from the public and media worldwide."

The museum in Destin-Fort Walton Beach will "preserve the history of the SS United States, tell her many stories and bring an interactive experience to all who visit the museum that will safeguard her history for generations."

Will SS United States be first ship sunk as artificial reef off Destin, Florida?

No. Okaloosa County has sunk "more than a dozen large vessels" in recent years.

History of the SS United States

The ocean liner:

Was in service from 1952 to 1969

It was widely known as "America's Flagship."

It was the fastest passenger ship ever built and the largest ever made in the USA.

The SS United States still holds the transatlantic speed record, achieved on her maiden voyage using only two-thirds of her power. During sea trials she hit 44 miles per hour. Modern cruise ships travel at around 28 mph.

The ship could be quickly converted into a troop carrier able to transport 14,000 military service members for 10,000 miles without refueling, and she could do it faster than any other ship before or since.

Famous passengers included Walt Disney, Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, Sean Connery, Walter Cronkite, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Charlton Heston, Bob Hope, Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

Four presidents traveled on the ship: Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.

The ship was sold multiple times between the late 1970s and early 2000s to several people who tried and failed to redevelop it into various tourist attractions.

It was sold to Florida's Okaloosa County in 2024.

February 2025: Moved via tugboats from Philadelphia to Mobile, Alabama, for remediation.

Estimated late 2025: To be sunk as the world's largest artificial reef off Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: SS United States ocean liner to be Gulf Coast reef off Destin, Florida
Amid the Congress party's protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has accused the Election Commission of avoiding responsibility for the alleged manipulation of election results and claimed that the BJP is defending it. "... Election results are being manipulated. The Election Commission is not ready to take accountability, and the BJP has come forward to defend them... We will all have to fight against the attempt to impose dictatorship by creating an atmosphere of fear... All opposition parties will unite to fight against this and join this campaign," Chaturvedi told ANI. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Congress MP KC Venugopal announced that the party will hold a 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rally at 8 pm on August 14 in all districts across the country. The protest is being organised in response to the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar and Congress' allegations of "vote theft" by the ruling party, which the party claims the poll body has failed to address. The announcement came after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge chaired a meeting of General Secretaries and In-Charges at the party headquarters in New Delhi earlier in the day. Venugopal informed that the Congress party will also launch a nationwide signature campaign from September 15 to October 16, with a target of collecting five crore signatures to be submitted to the Election Commission of India. "On 14th August, we will do a night march all over India, a district-level night march. 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rally at 8 pm on 14th August, in all districts. Then from August 21 to September 7, we will do state-level 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rallies...From September 15 to October 15, a massive signature campaign will take place with the same slogan. We will submit 5 crore signatures to the EC, KC Venugopal told ANI. (ANI)
St. Paul Public Schools will hold an in-person hiring event for paraprofessionals Thursday for the upcoming school year.

The event will take place 12:30 to 8 p.m. at the American Indian Magnet School at 1075 E. Third St. in St. Paul. Registration ahead of the event is not required and those interested can schedule an interview for the event or do a walk-in.

Paraprofessional positions hiring include teaching assistants and educational assistants.

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A complete list of job openings in the district is available at spps.org/careers.

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Stargazers on the lookout for the Perseid meteor shower were treated to an extra nighttime spectacular on Tuesday night as spirals appeared in the sky along the East Coast.

The unusual light show -- which appeared to show circling lights in the heavens -- was on display after multiple rocket launches.

MORE: SpaceX loses another Starship in latest launch, with debris seen streaking across the sky

Videos began circulating online in several states, including Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Illinois, Ohio and Nebraska, after 9 p.m. ET Tuesday, social media posts show.

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ABC Philadelphia station WPVI began receiving calls and messages from viewers around 10:30 p.m. to report the phenomenon, the station reported.

Francis Murphy - PHOTO: A time lapse of the spiral is shown in the sky above New Jersey, on Aug. 13, 2025.

The spiraling lights seemed to appear "out of nowhere," Blake Brown, who witnessed the dazzling display from Algonquin, Illinois, while watching for the meteor shower, told ABC News.

MORE: Rare wave-shaped clouds hovering over Virginia skyline caught on camera

The majority of the spiraling light sightings likely stemmed from the launch of Ariane 6, said Jonathan C. McDowell, an astrophysicist for the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

That rocket lifted off from the Guiana Space Centre at Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at about 8:37 p.m. ET, according to Eumetsat, a European operational satellite agency for monitoring weather.

Francis Murphy - PHOTO: A spiral is shown in the sky above New Jersey, on Aug. 13, 2025.

Ariane 6, about 196-feet tall, has the ability to launch both heavy and light payloads for applications such as Earth observation, telecommunication, meteorology, science and navigation, according to the European Space Agency.

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The appearance of the spirals in the sky was likely the result of the upper stage of the rocket tumbling as it underwent a disposal rocket firing at the end of the launch, McDowell told ABC News.

MORE: Falling space debris is increasingly threatening airplanes, researchers say

The spiral light occurs when reflection from sunlight interacts with the frozen plume of fuel from the exhaust of rockets.

"It's a nice, perfect spiral because it's way out in space with no air to distort the shape," McDowell said.

Francis Murphy - PHOTO: A spiral is shown in the sky above New Jersey, on Aug. 13, 2025.

Tuesday's launch, which brought a weather satellite to orbit, is the third-ever mission for the powerful rocket, according to Space.com.

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Another rocket, the Vulcan Centaur Rocket, successfully lifted off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 8:56 p.m. ET, according to the United Launch Alliance.

The 202-foot rocket was carrying a pair of experimental navigation satellites on behalf of the United States Space Force's first-ever mission, according to Space.com.

"The Vulcan launched east and went to a high orbit, and was still coasting upward [without the rocket firing] when the spiral was seen," McDowell said. "If people in Florida saw something at 9:37, 9:45 pm ET, that could have been the Vulcan."
Aug. 12The upcoming Beyond The Shadows Celebrating Life & Mental Health event first began with the idea of raising money for a cause to honor a soul lost, however, like so many events of its kind, it has evolved into something attempting to do so much more.

The event, which comes in two parts, will be held on Aug. 23 and will begin with a motorcycle/classic car ride starting in the morning and will return to Austin in time for the event itself from 4-8 p.m. at the Austin Bandshell.

All of it is devoted not only to the tragedy of a life lost, but to gain and build awareness and the funds required in continued support of those efforts.

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"This event was really born from deep loss and deep love," said Heather Dudycha, the sister of Sam Alm who took his own life in August of last year. "Sam was a son. He was my brother, he was a cousin, a friend. Very gifted auto mechanic as well as somebody who had a passion for helping others. What began as a scholarship in his honor quickly evolved."

Dudycha, together with co-lead Sarah Wolfe and as they describe, "a small army of 10 women that are extremely passionate about this cause," brought together the outlines of the Aug. 23 event in September of last year with the pointed desire to do more.

As time progressed, Beyond the Shadows blossomed into not only a chance to honor Alm's life by creating a $1,000 auto mechanic scholarship for a Riverland Community College student, but something that could be an all-around contribution.

"After talking to people it was just very clear that there was a bigger need," Wolfe said. "We're hoping with the scholarship scenario, not just to do it for the auto mechanics, but other fields as well. Maybe social services."

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"It's just serving our cause now," Wolfe continued. "Just to get people into those fields because that's kind of the purpose of this mental health event. Just to get more people involved in those particular fields."

That speaks to an overall need to bolster mental health services in order to get the help to people when they need it.

"When someone is struggling with mental health, they don't need help in 4-6 months," Dudycha said. "They need help now. They need help at that time. It's so critical that we have experienced individuals going into those roles to really support that need."

The Aug. 23 ride reflects the passions of Alm himself as Dudycha describes him as an all around "motorhead." On site registration will be from 9:30-11 a.m. with the ride starting at 11 a.m.

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Starting from the bottom of Skinner's Hill, the cruise will take participants to the Geneva Bar, Bend In the Road Bar in Manchester and down to a stop in Carpenter, Iowa before heading back north and a stop in Lyle before finally coming to Grandview Cemetery where Alm is buried.

The event that night will feature a variety of elements including speakers, music, booths for resources and family activities.

"One of the things we're hoping for is this is not a sad event," Wolfe said. "I know a lot of things surrounding mental health can be sad, but we're hoping to make this positive."

In particular, the event will provide a point of connection, not just between people, but to those necessary resources that can often be hard to find, something Dudycha knows all too well.

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"I experienced first hand how overwhelming and helpless it can feel as a loved one who is trying to find the right resources for a loved one in crisis," Dudycha said as she described feeling defeated by the process. "It was very challenging. I don't want anyone to ever feel that."

Those attending can also expect a deeply personal experience through a trio of things designed to bring those taking part together including a Tribute of Remembrance that will honor the lives lost to suicide or mental health struggles.

There will also be a Flag Tribute Ceremony that will represent the journey of mental health and capping off the night will be a tribute song that through the use of glow sticks will act as a symbol of hope.

"I think if anybody takes something away that is positive from the event, I feel like that's the beginning of the change we're trying to make," Wolfe said. "People feel like there is a supportive community behind them and that they aren't alone."

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In order to get to this point, the group held pre-event fundraising that served as a base for what is still to come. Through the selling of T-shirts, a fundraiser at Pizza Ranch and more, the group raised $3,500.

That gave them the base they needed. Currently, raffle tickets are being sold as well as donations being accepted. The ride itself costs $20 per motorcycle or classic car.

"We're very confident after this event with the money that is raised we will be able to continue this type of event as an annual offering," Dudycha said.

Dudycha went on to say that the efforts through Beyond the Shadows means a further evolution of the cause itself.

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"This is more than a one-day event  it's the start of a movement," she said. "The real impact happens in the conversations sparked, the people who leave feeling seen, and the resources that change lives. We're just getting started."

For more information, visit Beyond the Shadows Celebrating Life & Mental Health on Facebook or email beyondtheshadowsaustin@gmail.com.
Heartbreaking images of children starving in Gaza have caused what some Jewish Americans call a rupture between supporters of Israels offensive in its current form and those who oppose how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government is managing the war.

Frustrated by the bloodshed, pressure is mounting on the United States and the international community to take better control of chaotic food distribution sites.

Were seeing not only divisiveness, but hatred between us, and thats not a good thing for the future, said Rabbi Erez Sherman of Sinai Temple, a Conservative synagogue in Los Angeles. So how do we not solve it? How do we work on that?

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But support for Israel remains ironclad among many American Jewish groups and rabbis, who argue that Hamas is preventing humanitarian aid from reaching innocent civilians.

Israel has facilitated an extraordinary amount of aid to Palestinians in Gaza, in wartime, and thats really an unprecedented situation, said Belle Etra Yoeli, spokesperson for the American Jewish Committee, which recently ran a full-page ad in The New York Times with the image of an Israeli hostage who remains in Hamas custody.

The Palestinian civilians who have been caught in the crossfire throughout this entire war because of Hamas actions should not be suffering, she added. Israel doesnt want that.

Nearly 1,400 people have been killed and more than 4,000 have been injured seeking food in Gaza, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said last week.

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At least 859 people have been killed near sites operated by Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, or GHF, a controversial American- and Israeli-backed organization, the United Nations said.

The foundation's executive director, Johnnie Moore, said Hamas is largely responsible for the killings and dismissed news reports about people dying by Israeli gunfire.

We have not seen the Israeli military do anything that remotely aligns with some of these accusations, he said.

It is a quite evident fact that Hamas has killed intentionally probably hundreds of people in proximity not to just our sites, to U.N. distribution sites, as a means of sort of misattributing those attacks either to the IDF or to being in proximity to GHF, he added, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.

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To address escalating concerns over the humanitarian crisis, synagogues across Jewish movements in the United States have organized roundtables with the executive director of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

At an event with GHF hosted last month by Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, reactions were mixed, according to Sherman, the rabbi, who led the discussion.

Some people were shocked that an organization that has come under so much criticism was allowed to present its case. Others appreciated hearing directly from people on the ground.

How do you block evil from your midst while also feeding the hungry and supporting the orphan and widow? Sherman said after the roundtable, referring to Psalm 146. To me, its an impossible task, and I give credit to somebody who is at least trying to do that.

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Polling suggests Jewish Americans are divided over Netanyahus handling of the war. According to a Pew Research Center report, 53% of Jewish Americans say they lack confidence in his leadership, while 45% say they have confidence. About 6 million Jews live in the United States, or 2% of the population, according to the Pew Research Center.

The poll was conducted in April, before GHF began its operations in Gaza.

Supporters of Netanyahus government, including several Jewish American organizations, have said Hamas is spreading misleading information about who is to blame for ongoing violence at aid sites, a claim Hamas has repeatedly denied. They have also criticized detractors for losing focus on the remaining Israeli hostages held captive by Hamas.

All of this can just be stopped anytime if Hamas puts down its weapons, said Orthodox Rabbi Abraham Cooper of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish human rights organization that supports Netanyahus government.

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An emerging concern echoed by several organizations and rabbis is that Netanyahus position is not creating a safer Israel or global environment for Jewish people. Jeremy Ben-Ami, president of nonprofit advocacy organization J Street, said the ongoing violence is exposing Israelis and Palestinians to unnecessary bloodshed.

J Street, which supports a two-state solution, opposed Netanyahu years before the war.

If you say to people you must be pro-Palestinian or pro-Israel, then were condemning ourselves and our kids to a never-ending conflict, Ben-Ami said Monday.

But according to Rabbi Ari Lev Fornari of Kol Tzedek, a Reconstructionist synagogue in Philadelphia, the war is creating an existential rupture that is pitting friends and family members against one another.

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Its catastrophic, he said. Were wrestling with the very question Do we belong to each other?

Fornari was among more than 40 people arrested outside Trump Tower in a rally organized by IfNotNow, a group that opposes the war in Gaza Strip, in New York City earlier this month as they shouted for the United States to stop arming Israel and feed Gaza. He was arrested for investigation of blocking traffic and obstruction, his third arrest since the war started on Oct. 7, 2023, he said.

Some posters and signs displayed outside Trump Tower referred to an ancient maxim about the moral obligation to speak out against injustice, Fornari said.

It says anyone who has the power to speak out and chooses not to do so is responsible for it, he said.

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Rabbi Jill Jacobs, the CEO of Truah, a rabbinic human rights organization, said she supported Israels military response to Hamas terrorist attack in 2023, which killed 1,200 people and led to the taking of 250 hostages. The strike, the worst one-day attack on Jews since the Holocaust, shocked the world.

Since then, more than 61,000 people have been killed in Gaza, including thousands of children, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, and much of the territory has been destroyed.

Jacobs began questioning Netanyahus strategy as more and more civilians in Gaza were killed, she said. In July, she denounced American Jewish leaders who had not spoken out against the humanitarian crisis unfolding thousands of miles away.

Privately, Jewish lay leaders are anguished over Gaza. Publicly, they fear being labeled antisemitic, she wrote in an opinion column in The Forward, a Jewish American newspaper.

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Jacobs has been called antisemitic by other Jewish people who support Netanyahu and shunned by legacy Jewish organizations, she said. Some of it, she said, comes from a legitimate fear of prejudice.

In May, two Israeli Embassy staffers were killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., and a Colorado pro-Israeli hostages group was attacked with two Molotov cocktails in June. There have also been reports of anti-Jewish slurs and signs at college campuses and pro-Palestinian protests across the country.

The cultural fallout has been playing out in living rooms and across kitchen tables. Sonya Meyerson-Knox, a spokesperson for the anti-Zionist group Jewish Voice for Peace, which has opposed the war since 2023, said a member was uninvited to Shabbat family dinners because of differing opinions about the war.

The group was suspended from several campuses, including Columbia Universitys, over allegations it intimidated Jewish students and made them feel unsafe during pro-Palestinian protests last year. Jewish Voice for Peace maintains that its views are not antisemitic.

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It is not unique in Jewish history for Jews to be in fierce disagreement with each other, she said. What is unique is that there seems to be an effort to weaponize one-half of our community against the other.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne during a press conference at the Capitol on Jan. 30, 2024. Photo by Caitlin Sievers | Arizona Mirror

The Arizona Department of Education relied on written promises from schools that they were following School Safety Grant requirements, instead of documented proof, the states auditor general found.

In a report published Aug. 7, the Arizona Auditor General wrote that ADE did not conduct some important monitoring activities (for the safety program) and instead relied mainly on schools providing written acknowledgments of Program compliance.

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Auditors wrote that lack of compliance could limit these schools ability to enhance school safety personnel effectiveness and improve school safety.

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During the 2025 fiscal year, ADE awarded $128.3 million through the program to fund 1,086 police officers, counselors and other safety personnel at 1,153 Arizona schools.

In its response to the audit report, the Arizona Department of Education agreed that the auditors findings were accurate, but said that additional context was necessary.

While there is always room for improvement, this four-person team has worked tirelessly to successfully administer the (grant program) to ensure that Arizona schools have the funding, resources, and training necessary to fill and sustain critical positions across our state, the department wrote. When unmet program requirements are identified, the team takes immediate steps to ensure schools are promptly brought back into compliance.

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Auditors recommended more robust oversight measures, to which the department agreed, but said in its response that it already actively monitors schools compliance. Auditors found that oversight to be lacking.

The Department of Education has cited inadequate staffing as the cause of multiple issues brought to light by the Auditor Generals Office in the past year. Those include a failure to ensure schools have adequate safety plans and the departments refusal to meet with representatives from the Auditor Generals Office, as required by a new state law, to create procedures for risk-based audits of school voucher program purchases for months after implementing the audits.

The safety grant program currently has a staff of four, up from two in 2021, but the agency said it needs more workers because the program has grown quickly in the past several years. From 2020 to 2025, money awarded through the program quadrupled and the number of schools participating more than doubled.

In its written response to the audit findings, the Department of Education said that the massive expansion in the program since 2018, without a proportionate increase in staffing, had made keeping up with the same level of monitoring activities impossible.

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In 2018, only 128 schools were awarded grants. That grew to 424 schools in 2020, when the program was expanded to cover counselors and social workers. After an increase in applications in 2020 that put 150 requests for school resources officers and 350 for counselors on a wait list, the Arizona Legislature increased annual funding for the program by $50 million.

More personnel would be a better ratio, Doug Nick, a spokesman for the Arizona Department of Education, told the Arizona Mirror in an email. Added administrative funding is not available.

After the expansion in 2020, the department cut some of its monitoring processes, including requirements to submit documentation of safety team meetings and training certificates. The department told auditors that it did this to reduce the burden on schools.

The school safety grant program dates back to 1994, when it was created to fund the placement of police officers and juvenile probation officers at Arizona schools. It was expanded in 2019 to provide funding for counselors and social workers with the intent of supporting, promoting and enhancing safe and effective learning environments.

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The purpose of the grant program is to fund police, safety and juvenile probation officers at schools to deter delinquent and violent behaviors, teach law-related classes and consult on emergency response planning.

Through the program, counselors and social workers are to identify students who might engage in harmful activities or who may have been subjected to bullying to provide them with support and referrals to outside services and to train school staff to recognize signs of distress in students and managing crisis situations.

The program funds safety positions in schools in all 15 Arizona counties, including 499 in Maricopa, 75 in Pima and 60 in Pinal.

In the report, auditors emphasized the importance of using the grant money properly, given school safety issues, with 221 school shootings across the country from 2018 and 2024 resulting in 140 deaths and 376 injuries.

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In Arizona, multiple people  including elementary, middle and high school students, as well as one adult  have been caught bringing a gun to school campuses in the past 15 months.

In addition to approving applications for grants, the Department of Education is tasked with visiting the schools to verify the accuracy of information on applications, evaluating the programs effectiveness and distributing money to schools  but only if they comply with the program requirements.

Auditors found that 15 out of 16 schools that they reviewed failed to comply with all the requirements of the program. But ADE distributed more than $1 million to those schools anyway.

Some of those grant requirements include conducting a school safety needs assessment to review throughout the year for improvement; developing an operational plan that addresses school-specific safety risks and identifying three safety priority areas such as bullying, drug use and fights, and developing ways to curb them.

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Nine of the 16 schools reviewed by auditors didnt develop operational safety plans and two others had incomplete plans.

These schools were at risk of being unaware of and thus unable to prioritize and address their most pressing safety risks, auditors wrote.

One school that had an incomplete plan identified top safety risks, but didnt create a plan to deal with them. Auditors wrote that, absent this information, its unclear if grant money was used to address the schools most pressing school safety risks.

And the department inconsistently required the schools to submit reimbursement requests to ensure that the grant money was actually spent on school safety. In 2022, the department reimbursed one school more than $43,000 for a school counselor without receiving any expenditure reports, potentially increasing the risk for fraud, theft, waste, and/or abuse.

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Instead of implementing site visits and desk reviews, as required by the programs grants manual, the Department of Education simply required schools to say that they would comply with program requirements.

In its response to the auditors report, the Department of Education wrote that the current staffing of the grant teams wont allow for desk reviews of all participating schools, but it was working to develop protocols to review a representative sample of schools each year.

The Department also required schools to complete an end-of-year report that includes an affirmation that they met Program requirements but did not require any documentation to corroborate the schools affirmations, auditors wrote.

All 15 of those schools that failed to comply with some of the grant requirements had promised in writing to comply, and that they read and understood the requirements.

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It wasnt until the 2025 fiscal year that the Department of Education began developing and implementing plans and procedures for school visits to ensure program compliance. The department conducted four of those visits that year and plans to do more in 2026.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne agreed with the findings of the Auditor Generals Office and had already implemented some of the suggested changes or had plans to do so as of July 30, when the department responded to the audit report.

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The Brief

Most states in Mexico are currently under a Level 2, or "exercise increased caution," travel advisory, according to the U.S. State Department.

But eight states in Mexico are under a Level 3 advisory, urging Americans to reconsider travel to some parts of the country.

Homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery are some of the biggest crimes of concern for U.S. travelers.

Travelers heading to Mexico are urged to "exercise increased caution" after the U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for our North American neighbor.

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The Level 2 advisory was issued to warn travelers about an increased risk of terrorism, crime and kidnapping or hostage-taking, according to the State Departments website .

Mexico travel risks

What they're saying

"Many violent crimes take place in Mexico," the State Department says. "They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico."

Tourists enjoy the beach at a resort in Los Cabos, Baja California, Mexico on July 15, 2025. (Photo by ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP via Getty Images)

"The U.S. government has limited ability to help in many parts of Mexico. U.S. government employees are not allowed to travel to certain high-risk areas. Due to security risks, U.S. citizens should follow the same restrictions as U.S. government employees while traveling."

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The State Department warns that countries with a terrorism risk indicator could be subject to terrorist attacks with little to no warning at the following places:

Tourist locations

Transportation centers like airports and train stations

Markets and shopping malls

Local government facilities

Hotels, clubs, and restaurants

Places of worship and educational institutions

Parks

Major sporting and cultural events

Mexico Level 2 travel advisory

Local perspective

Mexicos travel advisory no longer includes a level for the country as a whole. Instead, each state receives its own advisory. Most states in Mexico are currently under a Level 2, or "exercised increased caution," travel advisory, the State Department says. However, eight states in Mexico are under Level 3 advisories, urging people to reconsider travel to the states of Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos and Sonora. Two states  Campeche and Yucatan  are under Level 1, or "exercise normal precautions" advisories.

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RELATED: Mexico to extradite 26 top cartel leaders to US in Trump administration deal

The northern half of Mexico is generally a higher-threat area, "primarily due to organized criminal conflicts and competition for drug trafficking routes to the U.S.," the Overseas Security Advisory Council warns.

Timeline: The advisory was updated Aug. 12 to designate level 2 warnings and add "terrorism" to the risk indicator, according to the State Department.

Crime in Mexico

Dig deeper

According to a report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council , Mexico "suffers from high rates of crime, exacerbated by its low rate of criminal convictions."

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"Most crime in Mexico goes unreported or simply cannot be accurately captured due to large number of individuals who have disappeared," OSAC warns.

"Although there is no evidence of criminals specifically targeting foreign or U.S. businesses and personnel, criminals will target victims based on the appearance of affluence, vulnerability, or lack of awareness," the report continues. "Armed robbery, kidnapping, car theft, credit card fraud, and various forms of residential/street crime are daily concerns. Criminals can easily resell jewelry (including expensive watches) and cellular phones in illegal markets. Although Mexico has strict gun-control laws, criminals often carry handguns, knives, and increasingly high-caliber weapons."

By the numbers

According to preliminary data from the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security, the national homicide rate in Mexico increased marginally from 23.29 homicides per 100,000 residents in 2023 to 23.35 in 2024. Thats compared to the U.S. national homicide rate of 6.8 per 100,000 residents, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Mexico travel safety tips

What you can do

Before you travel to Mexico, the State Department urges Americans to review its International Travel Checklist , with steps on how to join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and information on purchasing travel insurance.

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"If you encounter a road checkpoint, you should comply," the State Department says. "Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed."

READ MORE: Americans planning Mexico vacations face new safety concerns as US raises travel advisory

OSAC also urges travelers in Mexico to "be careful of cash transactions on the street."

"A hurried transaction for merchandise often leaves the customer with shoddy or counterfeit goods, out-of-circulation valueless currency, or incorrect change," OSAC says. "Some vendors will accept U.S. dollars, but at their own exchange rate."

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"The best ways to reduce the risk is to practice good personal security habits, especially maintaining a high-level of situational awareness and promptly departing from potentially dangerous situations."

The Source

This report includes information from the U.S. State Department, the Overseas Security Advisory Council, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security.
The State Department is out Monday with its long-delayed annual Human Rights Report, and this year's edition looks much different than previous installations.

The report, an annual U.S. government account of human rights conditions in countries around the globe, typically comes out in February or March.

A senior State Department official explained that the later release date was due to the transition of power from the Biden administration to the Trump administration.

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"The new State Department came in and we had a draft version of a Human Rights Report that prioritize things the prior administration had focused on and that the American people rejected," the official said. "And so that process of revising and ensuring that the report is readable and is factually based took several months."

Department officials acknowledge that the report, which covers the year 2024, has been pared down -- with countries' reports cut by dozens of pages in many cases.

"This year's reports were streamlined for better utility and accessibility in the field and by partners," an appendix to the document reads. "We minimize the amount of statistical data in the report. In the age of the internet, the underlying data are generally available."

MORE: State Department cuts broader than anticipated, include diplomatic security

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But critics of the Trump administration are likely to argue that in some cases, the brevity -- along with other findings -- are political decisions.

"This year's reports are different. The administration has erased or watered down entire categories of abuse," the Alliance for Diplomacy and Justice, a coalition of former State Department officials opposed to the Trump administration's foreign assistance cuts and many of its other policies, said in a statement.

"This is not an oversight; it is deliberate erasure," the group added.

Mark Wilson/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: The Department of State building is shown on April 19, 2019, in Washington.

Here's a breakdown covering some of the countries of note:

Israel, the West Bank and Gaza

The section of the 2024 report covering Israel, the West Bank and Gaza is notably brief, making several statements about the treatment of hostages held captive by Hamas while saying very little about the humanitarian conditions faced by Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

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The report states that the conflict following Hamas' attack on October 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,195 people, "led to a rise in reports of human rights violations," including claims of "arbitrary or unlawful killings; enforced disappearance; degrading treatment by government officials; and arbitrary arrest or detention."

MORE: Human Rights Watch says Israel committing war crimes in alleged killings of Gazans at aid sites

The Israel-Hamas War has resulted in significant casualties. The death toll in Gaza since the war began is more than 61,500, and another roughly 153,500 people have been injured, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.

Ammar Awad/Reuters - PHOTO: Smoke rises after an Israeli air strike in north Gaza, as seen from Israel's border with Gaza, Aug. 12, 2025.

The State Department also said the Israeli government "took several credible steps to identify officials who committed human rights abuses, with multiple trials pending at year's end."

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Although Israel's military actions in Gaza have been widely criticized, the subheading of the report titled "War Crimes, Crimes against Humanity, and Evidence of Acts that May Constitute Genocide, or Conflict-related Abuses," the department focused only on Hamas and Hezbollah -- writing that the designated terror groups "continue to engage in the indiscriminate targeting of Israeli civilians in violation of the law of armed conflict."

The State Department's 2023 report covered only about three months of the war between Israel and Hamas, but listed concerns about "serious abuses in a conflict by Hamas and Israel, including unlawful or widespread civilian deaths and harm." It noted that at the end of that year, Israel's "sustained, wide-scale military operation in Gaza" launched in response to Hamas' attack "had killed more than 21,000 Palestinians and injured more than 56,000 by the end of the year, displaced the vast majority of Palestinians in Gaza, and resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis."

The 2023 report on Israel, the West Bank and Gaza is 76 pages long and more than 22,000 words. The 2024 version is eight pages and less than 1,500 words.

Russia and Ukraine

As previous reports have done, this year's Human Rights Report sharply criticizes Russia over its brutal invasion of Ukraine.

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"There were credible reports of summary execution, torture, rape, and attacks killing and injuring civilians and damaging or destroying civilian infrastructure by Russia's forces in Ukraine. Russia's forces and officials committed crimes against humanity, including but not limited to deporting thousands of civilians to Russia, including children," the report reads.

Evgeniy Maloletka/AP - PHOTO: Ukrainian soldiers from air-defense unit fire at Russian drones in the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine, Aug. 10, 2025.

But this time, the State Department was also harsher in its evaluation of Ukraine, mirroring President Donald Trump's tendency to criticize both sides of the conflicts.

"Significant human rights issues involving Ukrainian government officials included credible reports of: torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; arbitrary arrest or detention; serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including violence or threats of violence against journalists, unjustified arrests or prosecutions of journalists, and censorship; systematic restrictions on workers' freedom of association; and the significant presence of any of the worst forms of child labor," it says.

The State Department's 2023 report listed many of the same issues regarding Ukraine. However, it noted then that they were "not comparable to the scope of Russia's abuses" -- a line not included in the 2024 version.

El Salvador

El Salvador -- a favorite of the Trump administration -- received a glowing review this year.

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The 2024 report found "there were no credible reports of significant human rights abuses."

MORE: El Salvador deportees are entitled to due process, judge rules

"Reports of gang violence remained at a historic low under the state of exception as mass arrests suppressed gang activity," the report reads.

In 2023, it was a different story. That report found that "arbitrary arrests and mass pretrial hearings" had "undermined due process and exacerbated historically difficult conditions in overcrowded prisons."

France, Germany and other European allies

The 2024 report found that the human rights landscape in several traditional Western ally nations had "worsened through the year."

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"Significant human rights issues included restrictions on freedom of expression and credible reports of crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism," the State Department said of Germany. It included similar language in its reports covering France and the United Kingdom.

"Manifestations of antisemitism, including physical and verbal attacks, occurred at public demonstrations, sporting and social events, in schools, in the street, in certain media outlets, and online," the department said regarding Germany.

"Apart from antisemitic speech, desecration of cemeteries and Holocaust monuments represented the most widespread antisemitic acts, although there was a rising number of physical assaults on individuals perceived to be Jewish," it added.

The department's 2023 report noted concerns about antisemitism in France, Germany and the U.K., but found that there "were no significant changes in the human rights situation" in the countries through the course of the year.

ABC News' Emily Chang contributed to this report.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has authorized the use of the State Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) to aid 12 counties, including one in the Miami Valley, affected by severe storms and flooding in 2025.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The SDRP provides state assistance for damage repairs, debris removal, and emergency protective measures in counties that do not meet the threshold for federal assistance but qualify for state support, according to a release from DeWines office.

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This decision follows a series of weather events that caused significant damage across the state.

TRENDING STORIES:

Among the counties eligible for SDRP is Shelby County. Its listed with counties affected by storms from March 30 to April 10 of this year.

Other counties eligible for the SDRP assistance include Jackson County, which was affected by storms from February 14 to 16, 2025; Athens, Clermont, Hamilton, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Monroe, Noble, Scioto, and Washington counties, which experienced severe weather from March 30 to April 10, 2025; and Fairfield County, which was impacted by storms from July 26 to 28, 2025.

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The SDRP is a reimbursement program designed to help local governments and eligible private non-profit organizations manage costs associated with storm damage. It is specifically intended for instances where damages meet a countywide per capita indicator, allowing the Ohio Emergency Management Agency to request funding from the Ohio Controlling Board.

More information on the State Disaster Relief Program is available here.

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The dog days of summer continue with several days of high temperatures forecasted through Wednesday.

Feels-Like temperatures in the mid- to upper-90s are expected in the Western New York, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Central New York, Finger Lakes and North Country regions.

Humidity levels are also expected to rise Tuesday and Wednesday. On Wednesday, feels-like temperatures in the upper 90s will continue throughout most of the state. Rain and thunderstorms are expected across the state Tuesday into Wednesday.

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In addition, a heat advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. Tuesday until 8 a.m. Wednesday with persistent hot temperatures up to 96 expected, according to information provided by the National Weather Service in Burlington, Vermont, for Eastern Clinton, Northern Franklin, Northern St. Lawrence, and Southwestern St. Lawrence counties in New York and Western Addison, Eastern Chittenden, Eastern Franklin, Grand Isle, Western Chittenden and Western Franklin counties in Vermont.

As extreme temperatures once again sweep across our state, Im closely monitoring our forecasts and working alongside partners in government to ensure New Yorkers are protected, Gov. Kathy Hochul said. Extreme heat is the most dangerous weather event we face, and I ask all New Yorkers to please take proper precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

Extreme heat is dangerous and is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States. The most common heat-related illnesses are heat stroke (sun stroke), heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash. Learn more about heat-related illness, including signs and symptoms and when to take action on the State Health Departments extreme heat advice webpage.

New York State agencies are taking the actions and making recommendations to respond to the forecasted heat. These include:

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New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The Office of Emergency Management is in regular contact with county emergency managers to ensure cooling centers are available, and to offer support and advise on extreme heat risks. In addition, the agency is facilitating preparations and coordinating guidance and communications with State agency partners. Information on how to manage extreme heat can be found online. To receive real time weather and emergency alerts, New Yorkers are encouraged to text the name of their county or borough to 333111.

New York State Department of Public Service

The Department of Public Service is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this weeks heat. Department staff, as a part of annual summer preparation activities, work with all utilities to confirm that they will reliably meet customer demands for the summer operating period. Based on staff review and assessment of utility data, meetings with each of the individual utilities and the New York Independent System Operator, staff found that the states electric transmission and distribution systems are prepared to reliably meet forecasted 2025 summer electric demands.

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New Yorks utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

New York State Department of Health

The State Health Department is taking a number of steps to promote the safety of all New Yorkers in periods of extreme heat, especially those most at risk. The Department is working with DSHES and local health departments and emergency managers to ensure access to cooling centers and safe spaces during this extreme heat.

The New York State Department of Healths interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard allows the public and county health care officials to determine the forecasted level of heat-related health risks in their area and raise awareness about the dangers of heat exposure.

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New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Prior to making a trip, potential visitors should call ahead to the park they plan to visit or check https://parks.ny.gov/parks/ for park hours and operations. Changes in weather and water conditions may affect swimming status. Park status updates are also available on the free New York State Parks Explorer mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Environmental Conservations Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and both central office and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts.

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DEC reminds outdoor adventurers that unpredictable weather  including rapidly changing temperatures and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas  can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, mud and warmer temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

Air Quality DEC is monitoring air quality in real time across the state and issues air quality health advisories as necessary with the Department of Health. New Yorkers are encouraged be Air Quality Aware and check airnow.gov for accurate information on air quality forecasts and conditions. To view the latest DEC air quality forecasts, visit the DEC website.

Extreme Heat DEC recently released preliminary Urban Heat Island maps to help communities better understand, plan for, and adapt to extreme heat exposures on the neighborhood level. Links to the maps, as well as additional information and data, can be found on DECs Extreme Heat Action Plan webpage and posted at nys-heat.daveyinstitute.com/hottest-hour. The project advances a key action in the Extreme Heat Action Plan and advances a 2022 law signed by Hochul directing DEC to study the impacts of disproportionate concentrations of extreme heat in disadvantaged communities across the state.

For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.
State Police confirm 12-year-old killed in Vado crash was related to driver

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  KTSM 9 News has learned more about the tragic single-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of two children and led to serious charges against the driver, who was identified as the mother of the 12-year-old girl who died.

New Mexico State Police confirmed that Juliah, the 12-year-old who died from her injuries after the car she was riding in crashed through a pole and chain-link fence in Vado, was related to the driver who is being charged with two counts of vehicular homicide.

Christina Escobedo-Arriaga is facing several charges, including driving while intoxicated and great bodily injury by a motor vehicle, after she allegedly drove a 2007 purple Dodge Charger off the roadway.

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Juliah was one of the two kids a state police officer found dead in the backseat of Escobedo-Arriagas car when they responded to the crash site along 8100 New Mexico Highway 478 Sunday evening.

The other child who died in the crash was Steven, 15. The relationship between Escobedo-Arriaga and Steven, as well as the surviving 15-year-old, has not been publicly released by investigators.

The third juvenile, who survived the crash, was taken to a hospital for treatment. State Police noted that the surviving teen had been wearing a seatbelt, while the other passengers did not appear to have been properly restrained.

Alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash. Escobedo-Arriaga was treated for her injuries at MountainView Regional Medical Center before being booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center late Sunday evening.

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KTSM reported Tuesday that Escobedo-Arriaga was released from jail on her own recognizance.

We reached out to the newly elected District Attorney of Dona Ana County, Fernando Macias, for clarification on why Escobedo-Arriaga was released from jail. We had not heard back from Macias by the time this story was published.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A man was arrested for allegedly killing his wife and her lover over suspicion of having an illicit relationship in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district, a police official said. The accused, identified as Sanjay Bhuriya, attacked his wife Lakshmi and her lover Mahesh after spotting them together in his house on Monday, (August 11). Following the attack, Mahesh died on the spot, while Lakshmi sustained severe injuries. He then was taking her to Maheshwar but died on the way, the police added. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP, Rural), Umakant Chaudhary said, "On August 11, Kishanganj police received information that a man killed his wife and her lover. Acting on it, the police verified the information and took the accused man, Sanjay Bhuriya into custody. During interrogation, Bhuriya told the police that his wife Lakshmi had an illicit relationship with her lover Mahesh. The man had spotted them together in his house and getting furious over it, he attacked them with a wooden log. Mahesh died on the spot sustaining injuries in the head while Lakshmi was also severely hurt in the attack." "Later, Bhuriya was carrying his wife to Maheshwar (with intention of shifting her to another place) on a motorcycle and on the way Bhuriya's sister-in-law also joined him. But due to the heavy blood loss, she also passed away on the way under Dhamnod police station limits," DSP Chaoudhary said. "In this way, the man killed his wife, Lakshmi, and her lover, Mahesh. The Kishanganj police registered a case in connection with the murder of Mahesh, whose body was found under the jurisdiction of Kishanganj police station and started investigation into the matter. On the other hand, the Dhamnod police registered a case in relation to the death of Lakshmi, who died under their police station limits. The accused has been arrested and based on his statement, the entire incident came to light," the DSP said. In the preliminary investigation, it came to light that all of them worked together as labourers and lived in nearby areas. As a result of which, they came close and had an illicit relationship, as stated by the accused husband due to which he committed the entire incident. Further investigation into the matter is underway, the officer added. (ANI)
charleston  A Raleigh County hospital is among four long-term care facilities being sold to the Marx Development Group, Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Tuesday.

The governor said that Marx Development Group has agreed to purchase West Virginias four long-term care facilities for $60 million. As part of the sale, MDG has agreed to make significant investments in the state, building a minimum of three and possibly up to five new facilities while sourcing labor and materials from within West Virginia.

One of the four facilities is Jackie Withrow Hospital in Beckley.

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Before the sale, West Virginia had owned and operated four long-term care facilities including Jackie Withrow Hospital; Hopemont Hospital; John Manchin, Sr. Health Care Center; and Lakin Hospital. The facilities currently operate with a $6 million yearly loss, and the long-term costs are projected to continue rising from the current level of around $40 million per year, according to the announcement from the governors office.

The sale of West Virginias long-term care facilities will increase the level of care provided to the patients, spur investment into the renovation and expansion of these facilities, and produce a significant amount of revenue for the state, Morrisey said. Marx Development Group brings to the table a remarkable breadth of resources and extensive experience in renovating and improving healthcare facilities that are in need of thoughtful investment. This is a win for West Virginias patients and a win for the taxpayers of our state. I want to thank Secretary Caruso, Secretary Nelson, Curtis Capehart, and the entire team who made this possible.

Marx Development Group is a patient-oriented owner and operator of similar long-term care facilities in states around the region. The company owns 55 properties through its subsidiaries with over 5,000 Licensed Beds. Majestic Care and Bluegrass Consulting Group, both post-acute providers, operate properties in Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Kentucky.
FAIRMONT  The state sold the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center to the Marx Development Group, a real estate business based in New York, on Tuesday.

Im appalled that this came out of nowhere with no discussions whatsoever with our delegation, with our community about the critical concerns that we have, State Sen. Joey Garcia, D-Marion, said. That people get taken care of, that we dont lose our last safety net for a lot of folks, and especially all the people that currently work at the Manchin Center that are providing this care the people that are getting taken care of.

The sale of the health care center wasnt the only shock. The new owner owns two assisted living facilities in New York that have been accused of discriminating against wheelchair users and the incontinent.

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Thats really disheartening, Garcia said.

The Manchin Center was one of four long term care facilities sold to the Marx Development Group. The state also sold the Hopemont Hospital in Terra Alta, Jackie Withrow Hospital in Beckley and Lakin Hospital in West Columbia. The facilities primarily serve low-income residents who cant afford private nursing care.

Gov. Morriseys office said the Marx Development Group agreed to purchase the four facilities for $60 million. The group also agreed build a minimum of three and possibly up to five new facilities within the state, while sourcing labor and materials from West Virginia.

The sale of West Virginias long-term care facilities will increase the level of care provided to the patients, spur investment into the renovation and expansion of these facilities, and produce a significant amount of revenue for the state, Gov. Patrick Morrisey said in a press release. The sale was first announced in August 2024 and culminated this week.

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The Manchin Center partners with Marion County Senior Citizens to deliver Meals on Wheels to senior citizens who cant make the trip to the senior center.

Marion County Senior Citizens Inc. was not notified in advance of the sale of the John Manchin Health Center and at this time, we do not have further details about the change in ownership, Marion County Senior Citizens Director Leisha Elliot said in a statement delivered by text. For many years, we have had a valued partnership with the Center, which has prepared the lunches served at our three senior centers and for our home-delivered meal clients. We are hopeful that the new owners will be interested in continuing this important relationship to help us serve the seniors of Marion County.

Gov. Morriseys office argued the facilities currently operate with a $6 million loss, and predicts long term costs will continue to rise from its current level of $40 million a year.

According to its website, the Marx Development Group is based in New York City where it was founded in 1987. The group manages property in several real estate sectors, including health care facilities, aside from focusing on development and construction. The website says the group owns 2,000 beds in nursing or assisted living facilities. The company has two assisted living facilities in New York, in Queens and Brooklyn respectively.

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In April, the New York State Division of Human Rights found probable cause that Brooklyn Boulevard ALP and Boulevard ALP Queens  two properties in the Marx Development Group portfolio  discriminated against patients who use wheelchairs. A Fair Housing Justice Center investigation in 2022 found the assisted living operators allegedly discouraged applications from wheelchair users or individuals with incontinence. The Fair Housing Justice Center also found discriminatory statements on the facilities websites stating they did not accept residents who relied chronically on their wheelchairs.

The State of New York previously allowed assisted living facility operators to discriminate against wheelchair users. The regulations changed in 2018. Both Marx-owned facilities had several years to change their practices after the state updated its regulations. The Center also filed a lawsuit against both Marx-owned operators for the wheelchair discrimination in March.

The Marx Development Group did not reply to a message by press time. Drew Galang, deputy press secretary for the Governor, said the bidding process for the sale began in 2024, with 140 parties contacted about the opportunity. Of those, 62 signed nondisclosure agreements, 12 signed indications of interest, eight signed letters of intent and four moved forward with due diligence.

"When deliberating over the final bidders, each of the companies went through due diligence and was thoroughly vetted," Galang said. "Companies of this size are often involved in litigation of different types over disputed allegations. We have no reason to believe there are any regulatory concerns with this company and are looking forward to the closing."

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Garcia accused the state of trying to make money off of the backs of people that need to be taken care of. State Sen. Mike Oliverio, R-Monongalia County, received news of the sale the same day as the governors announcement. He sent a statement by text.

My concern has always been for the care of the residents at these facilities, Oliverio said. In addition, retaining and properly compensating the wonderful staff that has kept these facilities going so long. I will learn more about this in the coming days to ensure that the residents and their families will be properly served, and our public employees will be treated fairly, as well.

Oliverio said he would take time to learn about the details of the complaints. After hearing about the discrimination complaint, House Rep. Mike DeVault, R-Marion County, had one reaction.

Print it, he said.

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Prior to the revelation of the complaint, DeVault said the sale worried him. It was also a surprise, although DeVault acknowledged that as an administrative decision and not a legislative one, the governor had no duty to inform legislators of the sale. DeVault said the sale of the facilities to a for-profit entity worries him because the private sector looks at profit and loss statements pretty hard. Profit and loss statements on elderly people who are on end of life care dont generate a lot of revenue. DeVault said end of life care is a duty, and shouldnt be looked in terms of profit.

DeVault pointed out Marion County has the oldest population in the state, on top of the state also leading the country in terms of age. DeVault argued end of life care needs to be expanded, not cut.

Its like turning our back on veterans, turning our backs on coal miners, he said. Were turning our backs on somebody just because theyre old.
SUNY Chancellor John King will visit the SUNY Niagara campus in Sanborn today as part of his tour of the Western New York SUNY campuses this week.

The trip is part of his SUNY Reconnect Tour during which he is visiting campuses across the state before the new school year begins.

Aside from SUNY Niagara, he will also visit the SUNY Erie and Jamestown Community College two-year institutions and the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State, SUNY Fredonia, and Alfred State four-year campuses today through Friday.

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At SUNY Niagara, King is expected to talk about the SUNY Reconnect Initiative, the states free community college program for adult learners starting this coming fall. Adults between the ages of 25 and 55 without a college degree can pursue an associate degree in the following high-demand fields:

 Advanced manufacturing

 Artificial intelligence

 Cybersecurity

 Engineering

 Technology

 Nursing and allied health fields

 Green and renewable energy

 Pathways to Teaching in areas where there are shortages

As part of the SUNY Reconnect launch, SUNY has allocated $4 million to community colleges for program implementation, $1 million for covering equipment, materials, and other one-time needs for increased enrollment capacity, and $1.1 million in grant funding for the SUNY Adult Learner Leadership Initiative.

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King is also expected to talk about the more than $400 million of increased operating support for SUNY campuses over the past three years.

The states FY 2025-26 budget provides $8 million in increased operating aid to community colleges and maintains the 100 percent community college funding floor, protecting them from $75 million in lost direct state tax support.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A statewide computer network outage left hundreds of Oklahoma state offices and tag agencies without critical computer systems Tuesday, forcing some to send workers home and others to close entirely.



Although service was restored by late afternoon, the outage created a domino effect, impacting everything from state offices to local tag agencies that depend on state-run systems.



We are playing catch-up, said Jeannie Pennington with Yukon Tag Agency. Our computers for tax, title, tags kind of operations went down today, and then drivers license services went down today.



Although tag agencies are private businesses, their systems all run through Service Oklahoma, a state agency.

LOCAL: OKCPD officer accused of violating protective order in ongoing rape, domestic violence case



A state-level network outage dragged those systems to a halt early Tuesday morning.



Its very uncommon for them to go down, Pennington said. Especially for more than like 30 minutes or so.



This time, the outage lasted hours, long enough for some tag agencies to close their doors for the day.



News 4 called several tag agencies throughout the day, but in many cases, the only response was a recorded message saying the call could not be completed.



The outage went far beyond Service Oklahoma, impacting nearly every state agency.



The Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office told News 4 the only system they could access during the outage was email.



The states Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) did not say what caused the outage, only that it was addressing an internet outage and actively working on a solution.



When everything goes down, its, its no fun, Pennington said.



Penningtons tag agency stayed open and began calling customers back when service returned around 3:15 p.m.



Weve been starting to call people back in, Pennington said. We know that people need to get things done. During the. Day, and we want to stay here. To serve them.



The state has not said what caused the outage or whether it was a simple glitch or a bigger problem.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PLATTSBURGH  North Country Congresswoman and House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik has publicly called on Clinton County Republican Chair Jerika Manning to resign.

Manning, one of three county Republican chairs who will decide the partys candidate in the upcoming 115th assembly district special election, has been accused by Stefanik of threatening to tank the 115th Assembly District for Republicans.

Clinton County voters are deeply concerned about the incompetence and selfishness of the inexperienced Clinton County GOP Chair Jerika Manning, Stefanik, R-Schuylerville, said in a statement to the media Tuesday. It is clear she has lost the confidence of elected Republican officials, committee members, and most importantly, voters. I am not going to let her torpedo Republican candidates in the North Country.

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The 115th district assembly seat is being vacated by long-time Assemblyman Billy Jones, the lone North Country Democratic state lawmaker who recently announced his decision to resign from office at the end of August.

ENDORSEMENT

Stefanik, along with State Sen. Dan Stec, R,C-Schuylerville, came out in support of Republican Village of Malone Mayor and Franklin County Legislator Andrea Dumas for the assembly seat last week.

Dumas has not come forward with an official announcement she is running but wrote on her Facebook she is honored to receive their endorsements.

Their support  along with the encouragement from friends and neighbors across Franklin, Clinton, and Essex Counties  means so much to me, Dumas wrote. In the coming days, I will be working with local committee chairs and members to carefully explore this opportunity. As I do, I remain fully committed to my current responsibilities as Mayor of the Village of Malone and as a Franklin County Legislator.

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For the past 10 years, we have worked hard together for the Village of Malone and Franklin County, and I want to ensure that progress continues with the same dedication and support Ive always brought to the table. I will continue working to see every initiative weve started through to success, Dumas continued. If I am given the opportunity to serve in the State Assembly, I will bring that same commitment to championing these projects and delivering results for our communities. Thank you for your continued support as I thoughtfully navigate this process.

NOMINATION PROCESS

As previously reported by the Press-Republican, there is no petition process for this election, according to David Souliere, Clinton County Republican commissioner.

Instead, its a County Committee Chair nomination between the three chairs  Franklin, Clinton and Essex.

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Each chair has a weighted vote based on how many Republicans voted in the last gubernatorial election, which was in 2022. Clinton County has over 50% of the weight. This nomination meeting cannot officially occur until Jones vacancy, which is Aug. 31. The process is the same on the Democratic side.

At this point in the process candidates would be seeking the nomination of their respective parties, Souliere said Thursday evening via text message when contacted by the Press-Republican. Assuming resignation is effective end of August; the meetings would be held in early September as they have to be within 10 days after the vacancy and then filed with the NYS Board of Elections.

Once the Governor officially proclaims the election date, we will be able to provide more info.

The special election is expected, but not confirmed, to coincide with the Nov. 4 General Election.

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CALL FOR RESIGNATION

Despite calls for Dumas to be the candidate, it appears there could be some hesitation from within the party to do so and may be the reason for Stefanik calling out Manning to resign.

The New York GOP, the Conservative Party of New York State, Senator Dan Stec, Will Barclay, local Republican officials, and voters are behind Andrea Dumas for Assembly. This incompetent Clinton County GOP Chair must go, Stefanik said. We need a steady hand and a proven Republican leader like Dave Souliere to step in and represent the Clinton County Republicans.

Souliere is the current chair of the city of Plattsburgh Republican Committee and Republican Commissioner at the Clinton County Board of Elections. He did not respond to a request for comment on this story by press time.

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Elise Stefanik is RIGHT, Stec wrote on his Facebook page. The current chairs persistent rejection of outstanding candidate Andrea Dumas is the last straw. The Clinton County Republican Committee needs new leadership!

We need to work as one team to flip this district from Democrat to Republican and then defeat Kathy Hochul next year. Its too important for the people of Clinton, Franklin, and Essex counties, Stefanik continued. Over the past decade, we have worked tirelessly to swing Clinton County Republican, and we will not let a selfishly divisive Chair destroy those efforts and drag down Republican candidates, which hurts the voters foremost. Jerika Manning needs to immediately resign as Chair and focus on her County Clerks race, where she is currently hemorrhaging Republican support.

COUNTY CLERK RACE

In addition to being county chair, Manning is seeking to be elected as Clinton County clerk in November. If Manning is elected, Republicans would continue to maintain control of the clerk position that John Zurlo held from 1995 until his passing at 86 years old at the end of last year.

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However, Manning is being challenged by Democrat Brandi Lloyd for county clerk. Lloyd ran a strong campaign for clerk against Zurlo in 2023 but eventually lost by less than 1,000 votes.

Stefanik continued her attack on Manning and said she would not win the election this November.

All Republican candidates, including our Assembly candidate, will win in Clinton County except for the Clerks race, unfortunately. We need a strong leader and a unifier with exceptional character like John Zurlo. Manning doesnt even come close to meeting this standard  and voters know it, she wrote. Thank you to Clinton County Republican elected officials, committee members, and most importantly, voters and constituents who have contacted me on this important matter.

MANNING RESPONSE

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Manning responded via text message late Tuesday afternoon to Stefaniks news release, saying she will not be intimidated into abdicating my responsibilities.

The false and politically motivated statements circulating about my leadership and the 115th Assembly District special election are nothing more than an attempt at election interference, Manning wrote to the Press-Republican. Our New York State Constitution and election law are clear: in a special election, it is the role and responsibility of the duly elected party chairs to select the nominees for their party. This process exists to ensure fairness, consistency, and the integrity of the ballot  not to allow personal agendas or political vendettas to dictate the outcome.

As Clinton County Republican Chair, my duty is to uphold the law, protect the voice of our local Republican members, and ensure that every voter has a fair process they can trust. I will not be intimidated into abdicating my responsibilities because certain individuals would rather bypass the rules for their own political gain.

Republicans win when we follow the law, respect the process, and unite around candidates chose in accordance with our Constitution  not when we allow outside interference to fracture our party. The voters of Clinton County, Franklin County, and Essex County deserve nothing less than a fair, lawful, and principled process.
A bill requiring all Delaware counties to refund taxpayers the difference on successful appealed property reassessments was signed by Governor Matt Meyer in the wee hours of the morning on Aug. 13.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Kim Williams, was approved in the House largely on party lines with 35 votes in approval, as the special session churned on in response to property taxes and reassessment fallout. It was passed in the Senate unanimously two and a half hours later.

If it becomes law, someone who overpays on their taxes before a successful appeal, and they overpaid by more than $50, the county will pay them back the difference. If the overpayment is less than $50, then a county has discretion to either refund it or credit it to the next year's tax bill.

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This goes for the entire property tax payment, not just the county, school or city.

There were more than 5,200 people who applied for an appeal of their assessed value in New Castle County, which is almost a quarter of its entire property tax base. The county said Aug. 12 that it has begun the process of scheduling appeal hearings  but officials also said it will take months to trudge through them.

SPECIAL SESSION: Delaware lawmakers lay out 3 key areas for reform on taxes, reassessment fallout

This isn't all new. New Castle County already had some contingencies in place to refund taxpayers who pay their bills before their appeals are heard. One plan relies on paying the original bill before the appeal goes through and then being credited the difference.

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But Williams and other Democrats wanted to compel the county to give direct refunds, rather than add credit to the next tax bill. There's only a credit option if the difference is less than $50.

The New Castle County Democrat said the county is on board with the bill.

"If I overpaid, I would want my money back," she said.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available. It has been updated to add a photo gallery.

Email any questions or experiences regarding the 2025 Delaware property tax reassessment to Shane Brennan at slbrennan@delawareonline.com

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Gov. Meyer approves tax rebates on successful assessment appeals
**Related Video Above: Third stimulus checks were processed in 2021

(WJW)  Its not a pandemic stimulus check, but Congress is currently weighing the possibility of sending the American people more money.

As part of the American Worker Rebate Act, introduced by Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri in July, people would receive hundreds of dollars in tariff rebate checks, which work to counteract the financial burden imposed on families by the Trump administrations tariffs.

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Federal government putting an end to paper checks

As the bill stands now, a household would get $600 for every child and adult  meaning a family of four would receive $2,400. Check amounts go down for those U.S. residents who are making more than $150,000 as a family or $75,000 individually.

(iStock/Getty Images Plus)

The bill has not been passed by the Senate or the House of Representatives, and it must overcome multiple obstacles before being brought to President Trumps desk to sign. However, last month, Trump did make clear he would approve of the rebates.

If the revenue from the Trump tariffs exceeds projections, the bill makes exceptions for a larger rebate being sent out to the American people.

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Bald eagles in Ohio: How many nests in each county

So far, there has been no word from Congress or the IRS on the possibility of a fourth $2,000 stimulus check. A rebate is a refund of something already paid for, while a stimulus is simply money given to pump up the economy.

The U.S. Senate is currently on break for the summer and is back in action on Sept. 2.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
ST. LOUIS  Kyra Sullivan, a St. Louis parent, has mixed feelings about Missouris new cell phone law, prohibiting students from using cellphones during the school day.

I dont know, she said. Im just on the fence.

She feels phones are a distraction for students but also wants her children to have access to their phones in an emergency.

Man accused of defrauding Missouri grocery chain of $15M in inventory

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During Tuesday nights St. Louis Public Schools Board meeting, there was a brief discussion among board members before they approved revising the district policy to reflect the new state law.

Concerns were raised about how students would be able to communicate in the case of an emergency. A district official, however, said plans are in place for emergencies.

The new law does include exceptions for cellphone use that include emergencies, students with special needs, and authorized use for classroom instruction.

Area school districts, including Francis Howell, Lindbergh, Parkway and Rockwood have shared their updated policies with their families.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Center Square)  After another round of votes on Tuesday, lawmakers are no closer to breaking the six-week gridlock on Pennsylvanias overdue budget.

This time, the Senate returned after a six-week reprieve to advance a $47 billion stopgap spending plan that level-funds most of state government while leaders negotiate the contested aspects: how the commonwealth will afford more money for schools and public transit without worsening a multi-billion-dollar shortfall.

This budget is grounded in reality and the reality is that we cannot spend money that we do not have, said Sen. Kristin Philips-Hill, R-Jacobus. The special interests who are pushing for more funding forget who signs the back of the checks  the taxpayers of our commonwealth.

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Its far from the $51.5 billion Gov. Josh Shapiro said he wanted to spend in February, which House Democrats later approved. Since then, the Republican-majority Senate has said the proposal is dead on arrival.

Today the Senate passed a responsible short-term budget that immediately releases funding for schools, nursing homes and human services while also advancing a comprehensive transportation plan that supports mass transit and roads," said President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, R-Greensburg. "Our proposal exceeds Gov. Josh Shapiros plan using only existing funds. Pennsylvania is at a critical crossroads financially. Senate Republicans have put forward a solution that protect taxpayers, and Gov. Shapiro and House Democrats still have not answered what taxes are they willing to raise on Pennsylvanians.

Democrats in the Senate, however, said Tuesday that by disregarding Shapiros proposal, their stopgap measure accomplishes nothing.

It ignores the proposal the governor made, said Sen. Sharif Street, D-Philadelphia. It does not fund our schools. It does not address the increases in the education funding that have been mandated by the courts. It does not address the transit needs that are desperately needed and we should vote no.

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The bill passed the upper chamber along a party-line vote. It awaits action in the House, which has no scheduled session days until Sept. 22.

Democratic leaders, who control the voting calendar in the lower chamber, said in a joint statement that "the Senate finally returned to Harrisburg  six weeks later  but they failed to do their job.

"This budget does not fulfill our constitutional obligation to adequately and equitably fund our public schools and it fails to support critical programs and services such as mass transit. We have a multi-billion-dollar surplus and the governor presented real opportunities to grow our revenues, which the Senate has ignored. We will continue to work with the governor and the Senate toward a real solution that moves Pennsylvania forward.
Rain chances will be slightly lower in the middle of the week as temperatures heat up. Higher rain chances return later in the week as a traditional monsoon pattern sets up.

Showers and storms are moving through New Mexico today, especially over and around mountain ranges. A weak cold front from the northeast has increased the amount of moisture in the air, especially in eastern New Mexico. It has also kept high temperatures a couple degrees cooler this afternoon. These storms will end later tonight as skies clear out in northern New Mexico while some cloud cover will linger in southwest parts of the state.

High pressure starts moving towards New Mexico Wednesday. This will start a warming trend statewide that will last through Thursday when the high pressure center moves over the state. This will also mean bad news for rain chances, but there will still be daily storms over and around mountain ranges again.

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The high pressure system will move eastward on Friday, setting up a traditional monsoon pattern across New Mexico. This will draw up moisture into the state, bringing scattered thunderstorm chances along and west of the central mountain chain Friday afternoon. That plume of monsoon moisture will move eastward this upcoming weekend, leaving the Four Corners area dry once again. Heavy rain will be possible with these storms Friday through Sunday, bringing a threat of flash flooding, especially over burn scar areas.

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BJP leader Boora Narsaiah Goud on Wednesday slammed the Opposition parties for their protests over special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the poll-bound Bihar and "vote theft" in the elections, accusing them of "working with the support of foreign powers and the funding agencies that are bent upon stalling the progress of India." Goud also alleged that Rahul Gandhi and his team are trying to replicate the 2024 anti-government protests in Bangladesh that toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. "Rahul Gandhi and his team are playing a very dangerous game in the country. It is now clear that the entire issue of SIR in Bihar, along with some electoral errors in the list, is replicating what happened in Bangladesh, as they can't win elections democratically," Goud told ANI. "I am 100% sure they are working with the support of foreign powers and the funding agencies that are bent upon stalling the progress of India," he said. Earlier this week, the Opposition MPs marched to the Election Commission headquarters in Delhi, demanding the rollback of the SIR. They said that the exercise would disenfranchise large sections of society. Rahul Gandhi had also alleged "vote theft" in the 2024 general election. Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday alleged that the EC is working with the Bharatiya Janata Party to manipulate the voter list in Bihar by issuing two Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers to its leaders and workers. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, Yadav stated, "Before we had talked about Bihar's deputy chief minister, Vijay Sinha. Now you call it a crime, a mistake, or an expose, we had said it before too, but today I want to tell you that EC is helping the BJP, and cutting the votes of the Opposition. The people of the BJP are being given not one, but two EPIC numbers for themselves, in one Vidhan Sabha only." "We are exposing one more thing. Muzzafapur's mayor, a BJP leader named Nirmala Devi, has two EPIC IDs in the same Vidhan Sabha. In that, too, they are different. Not only this, but Nirmala Devi has two brothers-in-law; they also have two EPIC numbers," he added. The RJD leader further alleged that the names of people from other states were being added to Bihar's voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) ahead of the assembly elections. "Now the people of Gujarat are becoming voters of Bihar. Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya, who is in charge of the BJP, has become a voter of Patna. He cast his last vote in Gujarat in 2024, but he is still a voter of Patna. He had his name deleted in Gujarat, but it's worth noting that it hasn't been five years, and you started changing places and voting. When the Bihar elections are over, then where will he go after getting his name deleted?" Yadav alleged. (ANI)
STORM LAKE, Iowa (KCAU)  Council member Kevin McKinney has announced that he plans to resign from his seat. The term is set to expire in December 2027.

McKinney said he is leaving over health concerns, which he believes limit his ability to serve on the council. He has been a part of the council for seven years.

After serving community for 16 years, Storm Lake mayor not seeking re-election

When he was first appointed to the seat, it was to finish a term for a vacant position. His last meeting will be September 2.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A street is back open in Lexington, Missouri Tuesday, four months after a gas explosion in the area killed a 5-year-old boy and seriously injured his father and sister.

The City of Lexington said 18th Street between Main Street and Franklin Avenue was back open as of Tuesday afternoon.

South Plaza residents report series of car break-ins in recent weeks

The explosion happened Wednesday, April 9, just after 7:40 p.m., destroying one home and damaging two others.

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The 5-year-old boy who died was identified as Alistair Lamb. His father, Jacob Cunningham and 10-year-old sister, Camille Lamb, were both taken to Kansas City hospitals with serious burns.

The explosion occurred more than three hours after Alfra Construction, LLCa drilling subcontractor installing a fiber optic line for Sellenriek Constructiondrilled into an unmarked gas main, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The investigation by the NTSB says the gas main was operated by Liberty Utilities, a subsidiary of Algonquin Power and Utilities Corporation, which provides gas service to the area.

Five days before the incident, on April 4, the NTSB report says Alfra Construction called Missouri 811 to have any buried utilities in the area marked. Liberty Utilities sent a locator to mark them and reported that this work was finished on April 7.

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The gas main that was struck before the explosion was not identified or marked during this process, the preliminary report says.

Family of man shot, killed by Kansas City, Kansas, police speaks out

Back in May, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed a lawsuit against Liberty Utilities after the companys failure to properly mark the gas line.

Cunningham and a couple who lived next door to the home have also filed lawsuits.

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Boeing defense industry workers currently on strike asked for congressional lawmakers' support on Wednesday as they seek to pressure the aviation giant to improve its bargaining offer to the union.

"We respectfully ask you to join us in supporting this vitally important, highly skilled workforce," the machinist union said in letters to the Missouri congressional delegation, describing Boeing's latest offer as "substandard."

Some 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers District 837 have been on strike since August 4 after rejecting a contract proposal. The two sides have not held talks since the walkout, representatives of both sides said.

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The strike affects Boeing facilities in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri and Mascoutah, Illinois.

"We ask you to urge the Boeing Company to promptly return to the bargaining table with new ideas and proposals in order to seek a fair and equitable settlement to this disagreement," said a letter signed by IAM International President Brian Bryant.

Products produced at the affected sites include the F-15 and F-18 combat aircraft, the T-7 Red Hawk Advanced Pilot Training System and the MQ-25 unmanned aircraft.

Prioirties for the union include fair compensation, with wages that meet the cost of living and "a contract that respects seniority and experience," the IAM said.

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Boeing said its offer includes 40 percent average wage increases, as well as more vacation and sick leave.

"We're surprised to hear the IAM International call our offer 'substandard' after hailing it as a 'landmark' agreement which they endorsed just three weeks ago," said Boeing Air Dominance vice president Dan Gillian.

"We remain ready and willing to listen to any constructive proposals from the union."

The St. Louis local's stoppage follows a bruising Boeing strike last fall in the Pacific Northwest region of some 33,000 workers that halted production at factories that assemble Boeing commercial planes.

Boeing executives have characterized the St. Louis strike as manageable, noting that they had prepared for a stoppage before the workers joined the pickets.

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Utah Senate President Stuart Adams has rejected calls for his resignation, defending his decision not to disclose a personal connection to a law passed in 2024 that was inspired by a criminal case involving an 18-year-old relative accused of having sex with a 13-year-old.

The new law was carefully tailored to apply the same standard used for 17-year-olds to allow 18-year-old high school students to be charged with a less serious crime than child rape if they engaged in noncoercive sexual activity with teenagers under the age of consent, which in Utah is 14.

In a stated effort to keep the process fair, Adams, R-Layton, did not tell legislators, except for the bills sponsor  Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore, R-Draper  that his granddaughter was currently the defendant in a Davis County criminal case falling into that narrow category.

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The law did not apply retroactively to open cases, including to Adams granddaughter. It was, however, referenced at her sentencing. Court observers disagree on the extent to which legislators actions may have influenced the eventual plea bargain that allowed the granddaughter to avoid a prison sentence and sex offender designation.

The ties between Adams and the bill, which were first reported by the Salt Lake Tribune, have sparked bipartisan backlash, and at least two Utah Democrats have called for the president to resign, saying he lacked transparency about a new law that may have indirectly benefited his granddaughter.

In an interview with the Deseret News and KSL.com, Adams and Cullimore argued that the process behind the bill was proper, a view shared by some other legislators, and that the origins of the change points to the responsive nature of a part-time citizen legislature.

Theres nothing unusual about how this bill came about, Adams said. Every bill that we run has some type of connection to a constituent, to a lobbyist, to an industry leader, to a personal experience a legislator has.

Kirk Cullimore, R-Draper, speaks at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News

What were the criminal charges?

Adams granddaughter was arrested in April 2023 after, as an 18-year-old, having sex with a 13-year-old twice, according to court documents. KSL.com and the Deseret News have chosen not to identify her but have noted the relationship to protect others.

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She was charged as an adult with four first-degree felonies: two counts of child rape and two counts of child sodomy, which usually require someone convicted to register as a sex offender and serve time in prison.

The typical sentence for such convictions is 25 years to life in prison, although judges have discretion to impose shorter sentences of as little as six years to life in prison. Exceptions could also be made granting probation to first-time offenders who met other criteria.

When Adams learned of the charges against his 18-year-old granddaughter in 2023 he said he reached out to Cullimore, who is now the second-ranking Republican in Senate leadership and an attorney, to ask why state code allowed for a high school student to be sentenced to decades in prison for a stupid mistake.

Cullimore said he reacted with disbelief and asked Adams if he could contact Cara Tangaro, the defense attorney representing Adams granddaughter, for more information about the statutes involved.

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In their conversations, Cullimore said he asked Tangaro to clarify the details of the case and to highlight changes to state code that would prevent future high school students from being charged with child rape when there was no violence or force involved.

Cullimore said he then gave these recommendations to the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel, which drafted the bill language that was inserted into an omnibus criminal justice bill during the 2024 general legislative session.

Cullimore said he was the only one who knew about Adams granddaughter throughout the legislative process.

I didnt feel like its my place to be spilling the beans on their family issues, he said. This is either the right policy or its not, you know?

Did the new law impact the case?

Tangaro, who continues to represent Adams granddaughter, denied having any hand in writing the legislation, and said she collaborated with Sen. Cullimore and others to make a very small statutory adjustment to prevent what she thought was an overly harsh outcome for high school students in future cases.

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I see absolutely zero problem with that, Tangaro said. This was a collaborative effort that was not done in the dark of night.

The law was intentionally created not to be retroactive to avoid the appearance of benefiting Adams relative, according to Cullimore. In a statement, Tangaro said since the law was not retroactive it did not directly affect Adams granddaughter.

In a transcript of Adams granddaughters sentencing from August 2024 obtained by the Deseret News and KSL.com, deputy Davis County attorney Tamara Basquez and Tangaro each recognized the legislative intent of the new law as shifting the states position in plea bargain negotiations, and 2nd District Judge Rita Cornish said she had to grapple with the new law even though it was not retroactive.

At that same hearing, Basquez spoke on behalf of the mother of the victim, who did not attend, saying she felt there hasnt been adequate consequences based on the harm done to her son.

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She just feels like theres no protection for the innocence of her son and just that theres a disregard for how it really has affected them, Basquez added.

While all the parties were aware of the new law, it was not applied as if it were retroactive, according to Tangaro, because her client was not charged like a 17-year-old high schooler, who would have been charged with a third-degree felony of unlawful sexual activity.

After serving eight days in jail, 517 days of house arrest and undergoing sex offender therapy, Adams granddaughter eventually pleaded guilty to a second-degree felony and three counts of sexual battery, a class A misdemeanor, with a $1,500 fine, four years of probation and 120 hours of community service.

Democrats call for Adams resignation

On Friday, state Sen. Nate Blouin, D-Salt Lake City, released a statement demanding that Adams do the right thing and resign. Blouin alleged Adams had given special treatment to his relative and framed his involvement with the bill as an example of abuses of power.

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Soon after, Utah Democratic Party Chair Brian King echoed Blouins call for Adams resignation, saying the Senate presidents personal connection to the bill was a perfect example of the kind of corruption that comes from one-party control of the state.

In later interviews, neither Democrat expressed opposition to the underlying policy. However, they said a different process should have been pursued by one of the most powerful members of Utahs legislative branch to avoid an apparent conflict of interest.

On Monday, Blouin, who issued his statement without consulting Senate minority leadership, said he believed Adams had initiated the change to weigh in on a criminal proceeding to get (a) family member out of further punishment.

Every lawmaker bases legislation on personal experience, Blouin said, but the connection Adams had with the issue merited more transparency, which Blouin believes could have been achieved without revealing the identity of Adams granddaughter.

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Lawmakers must make a disclosure about conflicts of interest on a form with the Utah Lieutenant Governors Office or on the floor before taking a vote. But the Legislature has determined this disclosure is usually only needed in relation to financial connections.

Blouin said he will consider filing a complaint with the Legislative Ethics Commission, which reviews violations of legislative member rules and can make a recommendation to the House or Senate ethics committee for enforcement.

As the former House minority leader, King said he questioned whether he should call for Adams resignation. He decided to move forward because he believes Adams decision not to reveal his personal connections shed light on a broader problem of legislative leadership not respecting the right of the public to an open legislative process.

People rightly get upset if they think that we cut corners as a matter of drafting legislation, King said. The higher your position of leadership, the more careful you have to be, in terms of not giving anybody a reason to look at you and say that youve been acting inappropriately.

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On Monday, Adams firmly denied that he had any obligation to disclose his granddaughters case. He said doing so actually would have exerted more influence on the legislative process and would have distracted from the policy.

Adams claimed to have had no participation in the drafting of the provision or its placement in SB213, and said he did nothing to encourage the passage of the bill. He said he went out of the way to not discuss the bill and withheld his vote until its final passage.

Nobody can say there was any undue influence on this bill, zero, none, Adams said. It was done ethically and morally perfect.

Defenders say Adams did the right thing

Criticisms of Adams actions largely break down along two lines: that the president prompted a law change that ultimately may have helped his granddaughters defense attorney argue for a plea deal and that he should have been more transparent with fellow lawmakers and the public while the omnibus crime bill was being debated.

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Adams and his defenders take issue with both.

Sen. Todd Weiler, who chairs the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee, said he was unaware of the charges against Adams granddaughter or any connection between Adams and the bill when it passed through his committee unopposed in February 2023. He said thats the way its supposed to be.

If he had told everybody, Hey, this is to help my granddaughter, potentially, and I want you to vote for it, I think that would have been much worse, the Woods Cross Republican said. Instead, he asked Cullimore to look at it and did not weigh in on the process, did not pressure anybody to vote for it or against it, and even he himself was off the floor when it came through the Senate the first time.

He added that leaders in both chambers of the Legislature typically run only one bill each year and that the president traditionally votes last in the Senate roll call so as not to put their finger on the scale of any one bill.

I think that by him being more transparent, if you understand how the legislative process works, it would have been much worse, in my opinion, Weiler said.

Asked if knowledge of Adams connection to the bill would have changed his vote, Weiler said it wouldnt have, because he thinks the bill does the right thing by adding an option for accountability for high school students without landing them with lifetime penalties.

My strong preference would be 18-year-olds shouldnt be having sex with 13-year-olds, he said. Its disgusting and its wrong, any way you look at it. But teenagers sometimes do stupid things.

Weiler and others have also said that by making the law not retroactive, Adams and Cullimore avoided doing anything that would have impacted the pending prosecution of his granddaughter.

Lawmakers often enhance penalties for various crimes and several attorneys said its not out of the ordinary for prosecutors, defense attorneys and judges to consider new legislation during sentencing or in plea negotiations, even if the changes wouldnt directly impact ongoing cases.

Adams said he was not aware that such legislative intent could factor into ongoing cases, and when asked directly if he intended SB213 to change the outcome of the plea deal said: No, very clearly.

I didnt have any expectation that it would have any impact on the outstanding case, he added.

Its not uncommon for lawmakers to enhance or create criminal penalties after a friend or family member is the victim of a crime, according to Utah Defense Attorneys Association Director Steve Burton, but it is rare for the GOP-controlled Legislature to lessen criminal penalties based on similar connections.

Burton thinks the change in how some 18-year-old offenders are treated is a good one, and thinks its unfair that lessening a penalty has sparked such outrage, when the opposite rarely does.

Its almost always the legislator kind of gets praised for bringing the issue to the attention of the Legislature and people rarely push back against it, he said of bills taking a harder line on criminal justice, saying the media has shown a bias in reporting on a bill that rolls back penalties. They dont focus on the times when its trying to increase penalties and throw somebody in jail and throw away the key.

Perfect process?

Seemingly every lawmaker aside from Cullimore was unaware of the case involving Adams granddaughter, including the House sponsor, then-House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Syracuse. Since finding out, she has expressed concern and said Cullimores provision did not go through the same vetting process with stakeholders as the rest of the bill.

With good reason, Utah law stipulates that 13-year-old children cannot consent to sexual activity. There is only one victim in this story, and I havent lost sight of that as we all work to figure out what happened and how to proceed, she said in a statement.

Everything in SB213, except the addition of the language that affected the case, was discussed throughout the 2023 interim in a large working group in conjunction with (the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice) and a series of separate meetings with criminal justice stakeholders. I attended all of the sessions and the topic of 18-year-olds in high school never came up, though the bill sponsor may have held other meetings on the added language.

Lisonbee said: Lawmakers and the public on both sides of the aisle are concerned about the process surrounding the adoption of this specific policy inside a 49-page working group bill. She added that the new code has not been applied to any other case and suggested lawmakers should review the code in question through an open and transparent process, working with all stakeholders to ensure the policy reflects community values.

We must be careful to protect innocent children and ensure that the criminal justice response is appropriate to the crime, she added. Im confident we can find the right balance as we continue to work on reviewing and refining this policy.

Cullimore conceded that the two short provisions stemming from his conversations with Tangaro did not emerge from the interim working group meetings that produced the rest of SB213.

But he said his actions prove he wasnt trying to play hide the ball.

The provisions concerning the sentencing of sexual crimes committed by 18-year-old high schoolers were included in the initial version of SB213, which had been reviewed by all the same stakeholders that worked on the bill before it was introduced on the floor.

The provision was either endorsed or not opposed by the Utah Sentencing Commission, the Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice, the Utah Defense Attorney Association, the Statewide Association of Prosecutors, Adult Probation and Parole and state law enforcement agencies and associations, according to Cullimore.

The specific provision that related to Adams granddaughter was also mentioned by Cullimore in every committee hearing and floor debate. In the House, Lisonbee read aloud the entire provision during discussion of the bill before a vote.

There was an inference that this was thrown in at the last minute. The evidence speaks for itself  it was not, Cullimore said. We never shied from the policy.

I just dont see it

Adams admits that his granddaughter made a mistake, but said she had fulfilled the penalties imposed by the criminal justice system. He said she was arrested at her high school and spent more than 500 days confined at home with an ankle monitor after serving eight days in jail.

What a humiliating event, he said. Now were heaping on her a scarlet letter on her forehead. Its wrong. The stories are wrong.  Shes been convicted and tried, and now were doing it again in the media and its wrong.

Some of Adams defenders have acknowledged that the situation may look problematic from the outside, even if they believe Adams acted appropriately and that to disclose his connection early in the process would have brought even more backlash for having an undue influence on the bill.

I understand this is a bad look, and I understand a lot of people have these fears or suspicions that people in power are taking advantage of the system. I get all that, Weiler said. But when I look at this closely, without the bill being retroactive, I just dont see it.

But Adams disagrees that the situation could be read to reflect poorly on him or the Legislature and he became heated when asked if he should have handled things differently.

The bill passed because of the policy, and the media is spinning this (that) I had some type of influence. Find the influence. Its unfindable, he said. It may have run because I brought it, but every case that we run up here is brought by a legislator, OK?

That is the process. The process was perfect.
Aug. 13SOUTH POINT  Students in Lawrence County returned to school today but for many in South Point, they got a preview on Friday of what they will experience in the coming school year.

South Point Middle School hosted a back-to school camp for incoming sixth graders, with 102 attending.

Principal Molly Sylvia said this year was a record turnout for the event, with nearly all of the school's 108 new sixth graders attending.

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The students were broken up into multiple groups, and were given a tour of the building, from the library to the gym to the office to the band room to the cafeteria, as well as a rundown of rules for things such as when cellphones are allowed (only before school during breakfast) and when they are allowed to go to lockers.

For many, the lockers in middle school were a new experience, and one of the reasons the students come to the event is to receive their locker combination and get a head start on learning how to open them.

Students were also taught about how their schedules work, with them taking required classes, such as English, math and science, as well as "specials," such as band and other

activities.

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The back-to-school event is something the district has done for several years, with the idea being to ease the stress of new students and to familiarize them with how the middle school operates before the first day of classes. Sixth graders who attended Burlington and South Point elementary schools took part in the event to come together as the new middle school class.

The students were not the only ones for whom the middle school will be a new experience this year.

The school has a new secretary, Angela Linthicum, who many of the sixth graders will already know from her previous job at Burlington.

"You will see a lot of me," Linthicum told one group, as they passed by her desk in the office.

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The school also has a new guidance counselor, Carrie Childers, who is taking over from Cindy Christian, who retired at the end of last year. Childers previously worked as a chemistry teacher at the high school.

"You're new, I'm new," she told a group gathered in the computer lab. "We'll all be new together. This year is going to be great."
GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. (WIVB)  A high school senior is challenging her districts decision to reject her senior parking spot designs because it included religious messages. Her family has hired attorneys who are asking the district to change its decision because they believe it violates the first amendment.

Sabrina, who WIVB News 4 is choosing to refer to by her first name only, is a rising senior at Grand Island Senior High School.

WIVB News 4 has obtained an 11-page letter that accuses Grand Island High School administrators of rejecting her designs because they included religious beliefs.

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The letter states two assistant principals, Adam Hernandez and Jaime Peld, met with Sabrina and informed her that her first design was inappropriate and would not be approved.

The design included the Christian symbol of a plain cross, a heart, the phrases, God is love, He loves you, and a quotation from Christian sculpture, John 14:6.

The letter states the two assistant principals told Sabrina, if we had to approve your cross, wed have to approve a satanic symbol and I wouldnt want to attend a school like that. They also told Sabrina that including a cross symbol would only be acceptable if she disguised it as a t.'

On June 9, Sabrina sent a second design for approval. It included the phrase let your light shine, using a cross symbol instead of the letter t in the world light, as Hernandez and Pel suggested.

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The design also included the scripture reference Jeremiah 29:11 without directly quoting it. Officials again rejected Sabrinas second design because it included a scripture reference.

The third design Sabrina submitted, without the scripture quotes, was eventually approved.

Sabrina and her parents were frustrated by what they call censorship. They reached out to a First Liberty Institute, a legal organization dedicated exclusively to defending religious liberty for all Americans.

Keisha Toni Russell, senior counsel at First Liberty Institute, said the schools actions are a clear violation of the First Amendment because the school is allowing other students to express themselves freely.

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The free speech and free exercise clause doubly protect religious speech, Russell said. What that really means is just because you go to school or just because youre on government property, it doesnt mean you lose your constitutional rights.

The Grand Island Central District received an 11-page letter, on Tuesday (8/12/25) from a Utah attorney working with a national religious liberty organization, Superintendent Brian Graham said in a statement to News 4. We obviously need time to review, digest, and discuss it. While we do so, were happy to pause the deadline for students to complete their parking space designs. We hope to have an update once our process is complete.

First Liberty Institue set a deadline of Aug. 14 for Graham to respond to the letter. They said Graham and the schools attorney requested an extension, which they plan to grant to allow more time to review the letter.

Our next step is if they stall for longer than wed like or if they say no, we plan on going to federal court and suing them and seeking a preliminary injunction, Russell said. This means the court would move very quickly in order to try to get Sabrina her rights vindicated.

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Russell is hopeful they will receive a response within the next two weeks.

Click here to view the entire letter.

Latest Local News

Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.

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HINESVILLE, Ga. (WSAV)  A Bradwell Institute student was taken into custody by Liberty County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) after bringing a weapon to school.

According to a press release from the Liberty County School System (LCSS) sent Wednesday, a student told school administration that another student reportedly brought a firearm with magazine in a book bag to school property.

In coordination with law enforcement, the school administration investigated the incident and secured the weapon. The student was later taken into custody by LCSO authorities.

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At no time were students in danger during this incident, said LCSS in the release. We also encourage parents and guardians to speak with their children about the importance of not

bringing any prohibited items to school.

LCSO said this remains an ongoing investigation.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV.
The results of the Missouri Assessment Program come in four categories: advanced, proficient, basic and below basic. Grade-level equivalence, which is required to be reported in next years results, contains scores in the basic and proficient ranges (Getty Images).

Students are showing positive momentum on state standardized tests, state education officials said Tuesday, though the results remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger told the State Board of Education Tuesday that she was glad to see an end to the nosedive that scores took between 2018 and 2023. But she knows the state can do better.

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Now we are seeing an uptick. It takes a lot to see even a percent of an uptick, she told the board. Are we where we need to be? Absolutely not.

Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge, a board member from Pasadena Hills, said she hoped to see more improvement.

This just feels like we need to revisit our growth targets, understand what worked and figure out where we need to turn up the dial to our growth, she said.

The results of the Missouri Assessment Program come in four categories: advanced, proficient, basic and below basic. Grade-level equivalence, which is required to be reported in next years results, contains scores in the basic and proficient ranges.

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In English language arts, 44% of students scored proficient or advanced, compared to 49% in 2019.

Math performance improved, with the lowest number of students scoring below basic in recent years. As a whole, 44% of students scored in the proficient or advanced range in math, beating 2019s level of 41%.

But the achievement gap remains wide.

The state education department tracks the scores of students who are Black, English learners, free-and-reduced lunch recipients, Hispanic or those with an individualized education plan as a group. The group scores in the proficient or advanced range at less than half the rate of students outside those groups.

The board, with a tone of disappointment, spent part of Tuesdays meeting examining ways to improve student achievement. The discussion often veered to low attendance rates.

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We have school districts with 49% attendance and that, to me, is not acceptable. So weve got to do something about attendance, Eslinger said.

Her main areas of focus, she said, are literacy and attendance as mechanisms to boost performance.

We need to truly, truly work on attendance and literacy, Eslinger said. And then I do think that we need to look at how we measure progress.

The current way of measuring performance is too slow, she said, adding that she wants more granular data.

Educators have long been expressing the same sentiment. Standardized test results are one of the factors that determine school districts state accreditation and are often cited by lawmakers and researchers to advocate for policy change. But educators compare the test to an autopsy, showing what has happened in the past but not providing real-time performance data.

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School leaders have advocated for a shift to benchmark assessments, instead of the MAPs summative format. And schools in the Success Ready Students Network, which is exempt from the states accreditation process, have been testing new ways to monitor student performance.

At the end of July, the department announced that the whole state will move toward benchmark tests as part of the U.S. Department of Educations Innovative Assessment Demonstration Authority Program. The program will allow the state to pilot a new assessment system beginning in the 2025-26 school year.

The department is planning on a small-scale pilot of approximately five (schools) serving an estimated 100 students each in grade four English language arts and grade five Mathematics, according to its application submitted earlier this summer.

The new test, which the department is calling the Success Ready Student Assessment, will have a minimum of three checkpoints throughout the school year and is intended to provide more timely feedback to educators and students.

It just gives us a lot more information, Eslinger said. It is so much better for our kids to be able to have that opportunity to really see what it is that theyve learned and what they need to learn next.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Back to school is here across the Beehive State. With the 2025-2026 school year starting, the principal of Taylorsville High School is welcoming students back into the classroom.

I dont have the jitters as much. Ive been doing this for a while, but its just really exciting to once again see the students in the hallway, see their excitement, and they have their new backpacks and their new clothes, and theyre just excited to be back, Taylorsville High School Principal Mark Ellermeier said.

For the first time since 1983, Cyprus High School is getting an upgrade. Granite School District Superintendent Ben Horsley says the building is ready for classes, but construction has yet to finish on the school.

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Cyprus High School students will soon go back to school in a new building

The new building broke ground almost four years ago following damage that was done to the school during a 5.7 magnitude earthquake that hit Magna in March 2020. Officials reported an estimated $1 million in damages during the quake.

Cyprus High School was originally built in 1918 and wasnt rebuilt until 1983.

We are opening this brand new school here in magna. This is the new Cyprus High School. This is the largest comprehensive high school in the state of Utah, and as you can see, the sun is brightly shining on this new commons area. The first thing that the sun touches as it comes over the mountains is this beautiful high school and community, Horsley said.

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KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Health officials in Sudan have launched a 10-day cholera vaccination campaign in the capital, Khartoum, to curb what humanitarians call a rapidly spreading outbreak of the diarrheal disease fueled by civil war, displacement and heavy rainfall.

Associated Press video footage on Wednesday showed officials administering the vaccine to children and others. Healthcare worker Aziza Berima said the campaign in Khartoum began Sunday and targets over 150,000 people.

Resident Montaser al-Sayed said he and his family recently returned home after being displaced by fighting. They feared cholera in the chaotic conditions but said the vaccination campaign reassured them.

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As a mother, I was relieved," said another resident, Razaz Abdullah.

Cholera is spreading at an alarming rate and the collapsed health system makes it "extremely hard to trace and contain, Sophie Dresser, director of programs at Mercy Corps-Sudan, told the AP.

Last month, the United Nations humanitarian office said over 32,000 suspected cholera cases have been reported in Sudan this year. Since the outbreak was declared in July 2024, more than 83,000 cases and 2,100 deaths have been reported, the U.N. said, citing Sudan's health ministry.

The U.N. says cases are rising in Sudans more remote western region of Darfur. The health ministry has reported 1,440 suspected cases and 74 deaths there.

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Although vaccination campaigns launched last year across some areas in Sudan, the disease has continued to spread in recent months amid the ongoing fighting between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army.

The civil war erupted in April 2023 in Khartoum before spreading across the country. The fighting has killed over 40,000 people, displaced as many as 12 million and pushed many to the brink of famine.

The World Health Organization describes cholera as a disease of poverty because it spreads where there is poor sanitation and a lack of clean water. The diarrheal disease is caused when people eat food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is easily treatable with rehydration solutions and antibiotics, but in severe cases the disease can kill within hours if left untreated.

A spike in cholera cases had been reported in Khartoum, where 172 people died and more than 2,500 others were infected in a week in late May. A 10-day vaccination campaign at the time reached over 2.2 million people, the WHO reported in July.

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Aid organizations warn that the situation, including heavy rains, is concerning in other areas of Sudan including North Kordofan, White Nile and River Nile provinces.

In places like Darfur and Kordofan, people are living in crowded shelters with poor sanitation and little access to clean water or medical care, conditions where cholera thrives," Dresser said.
The raids are underway at six locations in Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknow and two in Delhi under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The case stems from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered in 2021, based on 48 First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by homebuyers and commercial space purchasers alleging fraud and non-delivery of promised properties. The number of FIRs has since increased to 87.

According to a forensic audit conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UP RERA), the proceeds of crime in the case amount to Rs 248 crore.

Officials said that the promoter brothers -- Piyush Rastogi, Paresh Rastogi, and Deepak Rastogi -- have been absconding for the past four years.

They said that due to the promoters' non-compliance and the lack of sufficient evidence earlier, no property attachments could be made.

"The current searches aim to gather crucial documents, trace the proceeds of crime, and facilitate future attachments," mentioned officials privy to the development. (ANI)
A suicidal man has been jailed for 10 years after walking in front of a train while carrying a two-year-old boy.

Frederick Danquah, 28, and the child were both injured at Garrowhill railway station in Glasgows east end on July 2, 2023.

Danquah denied attempted murder and another charge of culpable and reckless conduct, regarding another incident on the same date, stating his mental condition as a defence, but he was convicted by a jury Glasgow High Court last month.

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At the same court on Wednesday, the judge said the harm was of the greatest kind and sentenced Danquah to 10 years in prison. He also imposed a non-harassment order until the child is 18.

The court heard that earlier that day, Danquah tried to climb over a footbridge above the M8 in Glasgow with the child on his shoulders, after arguing with his ex-partner who told him she had moved on.

After posting a suicidal message on Facebook, he prepared a contingency plan including a note with contact details, the court heard.

Danquah collected the child and took him into Glasgow city centre and met his sisters partner, before he attempted to climb the bridge over the M8.

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He was spotted by police but reassured them, the court heard, before he travelled to Garrowhill station with the child and made an attempt on their lives.

British Transport Police said Danquah sustained a broken jaw and fracture to his neck, while the child suffered cuts and bruises but no serious injuries. The child was discharged from hospital two days later.

Danquah suffered a broken jaw and fracture to his neck, while the boy suffered cuts and bruises but no serious injuries

Sentencing, Mr Justice Kelly said: You went to the platform, picked up [the child] and walked into the path of a train. You suffered injuries and [the child] was injured.

To seek to take the life... over some hours is great criminality. I have no doubt about your intentions.

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You were intent on taking your own life on July 2, 2023.

Mr Justice Kelly added that a train driver saw you step in the path of a train and people involved in the rescue were in various stages of upset.

The court heard Danquah had no previous convictions and was involved in a Ghanaian community group.

Danquah made further attempts on his life including in December 2023, the court heard.

Gary Allan, the defence barrister, said it was a horrible miracle and Danquah was receiving psychiatric help since a one-off horror story took place at his own hand.

Mr Allan said Danquah had been beaten up by other prisoners, and jail will be living nightmare for him.

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HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Back on the books.

The Sumner County Library Board will discuss a controversial book collection policy once again, just over a month since it was voted down.

Its a little shocking that its back immediately, Sumner County Democratic Party Chair Megan Lange said. But were prepared; were ready, and we are not going to let it pass without another fight.

Sumner County Library Board Chair Joanna Daniels is determined to revise the countys library collections, removing any materials with sexual or transgender content.

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The proposed policy would also create new guidelines for book-signing events at libraries, change how residents appeal removed materials, and eliminate any adherence to the American Library Association.

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What this boils down (to) is control. Public libraries are a gateway to information and knowledge for everyone. Education is freedom, one woman said during the library boards last meeting on July 9.

I would say that we are at a tipping point, Lange said. There are citizens who are lined up. Theres a list of at least five people who are ready, at this point, to put their names on a lawsuit.

Lange is hopeful the board will continue to vote against the policy, at least until Daniels is no longer in charge.

Her term ends in November, and I think this is something she wants to accomplish before her term ends, Lange said.

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Daniels, meanwhile, told News 2 the policy is based on research she conducted on other library board guidelines and what the state requires of them.

She insists that everything theyve done, or will do, is legal and fits what the majority of their community wants.

Were not discriminating. Nothing that we have done  no policy weve created, no job qualification weve created  have gone against anything, Daniels said. Just because something isnt in there that you want to read doesnt make it unsafe. We also have Amazon. We have book stores; you can go down to the Nashville library.

Daniels said she isnt worried about a possible lawsuit, given they havent broken any laws.

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Some residents disagree.

If this is passed, it is a violation of the 14th Amendment, Lange said. The county may not have done anything illegal yet, but theyre walking precariously close to the line, and when they cross that, we are ready to file a lawsuit and hold them accountable.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The Sumner County Library Board will also discuss a persisting issue at two of their public libraries: open library director positions in both Hendersonville and Westmoreland.

The qualifications of the candidates and whether each person is being given a fair evaluation have become a lingering point of contention.

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Daniels told News 2 that candidates shes in favor of have not been spoken to or fairly evaluated by certain board members. Meanwhile, Lange said most of the candidates brought forward do not have library experience and lack the qualifications that should be required.

Sumner Countys library board will meet at 3:30 p.m. in Gallatin on Wednesday.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Researchers say they have developed a new technology that can help choose the right antibiotic to fight drug-resistant infections "in minutes instead of days".

The device and process, created by Coventry-based Cytecom, is currently in pre-clinical stages and undergoing testing in collaboration with the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust.

Dr Magdalena Karlikowska, CEO, said it would help doctors provide quicker care, which would be crucial to treating time-sensitive conditions, such as sepsis, "with the potential to save millions of lives".

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"Antimicrobial resistance already means longer hospital stays, higher healthcare costs, and tragically, more lives lost," she said.

She added it could take between three-to-seven years to move from the development stage to seeing it widely available in hospitals.

Microbes, which are resistant to a particular antibiotic, "light up" when shocked with electricity [BBC]

Dr Karlikowska said that the current test for an antibiotic's effectiveness was to expose the bacteria to it, then wait and see whether the bacteria was able to grow.

She said that this process of "culturing" the bacteria could take about two or three days.

However, their new diagnostic test exposes the bacteria to an antibiotic for an hour, then shocks it with electricity to see if it is still alive.

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This works because a fluorescent dye causes the bacteria to light up if it has survived, utilising the natural electric charge in the cell membrane.

She added that this method had never been done before anywhere else in the world.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker was given a tour of Cytecom's lab and office [BBC]

The company has been supported by the West Midlands Health Tech Innovation Accelerator scheme, which is backed by West Midlands Combined Authority.

This connected Cytecom with university expertise, other researchers, and potential funders.

The authority's mayor, Richard Parker, said the health and medical technology sector contributed 6bn to the region's economy, and employed more than 14,000 people.

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He said: "This research is incredible impressive, it's fantastic that in the West Midlands, in Coventry, we've got such a brilliant business which is developing leading edge medical technology.

"It's going to have a reach globally, and it's not just going to save lives, it's going to inform better treatment, which will improve people's lives too."

Meanwhile, Dr Karlikowska said it was important to showcase that the West Midlands could also be a leader in medical technology.

"Traditionally in the UK, we've got the Golden Triangle, which is London, Cambridge, and Oxford, and that's really great.

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"But actually...we have to showcase the fact that we have talent here in the region too."

Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.

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The Brief

Joseph Ross of Milwaukee reached a plea deal in a criminal case against him.

Ross was accused of placing drops of superglue into a co-worker's soft drink.

Ross pleaded guilty to a single charge  and will be sentenced in October.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - A Milwaukee man is accused of placing drops of superglue into a co-worker's soft drink pleaded guilty on Tuesday, Aug. 12, to a single charge of "placing foreign object in edibles."

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The accused is Joseph Ross. Online court records indicate he pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal. Ross is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9.

Case details

What we know

According to the criminal complaint, Wisconsin State Fair Park police officers were conducting a foot patrol of the exhibition center on Thursday, March 20.

During that patrol, a woman approached them and requested a private conversation. The person told the officers that "approximately 2 to 3 weeks ago, (she) suspected that her beverages on her desk had been contaminated by a chemical substance. (The woman) was made aware of the contamination, due to the strong chemical smell and taste," the complaint says. The woman told officers she became ill as a result.

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The complaint says the woman "set up a surveillance camera concealed below (the woman's) computer monitor to see if anyone was putting substances into her beverage," the complaint says. The camera later captured the woman's co-worker, the defendant "put a foreign substance into (the woman's) soft drink," the complaint says.

The complaint goes on to say the defendant was "in possession of a small bottle/tube type dispenser, with a white nozzle. The dispenser appears to be brown/orange in color." The defendant is "observed to pinch and manipulate the small bottle/tube with his left thumb and forefinger while continuously holding the dispenser above the can of soda" before walking out of camera view.

Interview of defendant

What we know

Shortly after 5 p.m. that same day, police conducted an interview with the defendant who "admitted to placing a supplement into (the woman's) soft drink," the complaint says. When investigators searched the defendant's desk, they located latex gloves that were "wadded into a ball." When the officers unraveled the gloves, they "found that each contained an item. One glove contained a blue plastic cap. The other glove contained a superglue container," the complaint says. It was Gorilla brand superglue.

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Based on what officers found at the defendant's desk area, they arrested the defendant.

The Source

The information in this post was provided by Wisconsin Circuit Court Access as well as the criminal complaint associated with this case.
(WBRE/WYOU)  The start of the new school year is now just weeks away for most area school districts. Most resume classes at the end of the month or early September.

28/22 News talked with the superintendents of the two largest school districts in NEPA, Hazleton and Scranton, about their final preps

The Hazleton and Scranton school districts combine for a total of more than 20,000 students.

Hazleton is the largest district. They say their number one priority is school safety.

Were very ready to welcome those students back, Hazleton Area School District Superintendent Dr. Brian Uplinger told 28/22 News.

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We are super excited to welcome everyone back, cant wait, Scranton School District Superintendent Dr. Erin Keating said.

28/22 News spoke with Uplinger and Keating, the superintendent of the Scranton School District. Both say their districts really never shut down.

Even during the summer months, staff and administrators are always prepping for the next school year.

Roads take on water as NWS issues flash flood warning

Uplinger talked about their efforts to make sure their schools are safe.

Weve invested in different technologies across the district. Were revamping our camera system, were revamping the way that they enter the schools. We have new things they can walk through, metal detectors that they walk through. They are called open gates, very simple to walk through, Uplinger explained.

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Keating urges people to be aware of their surroundings at all times.

So we are going to do everything we can to make our schools the most safe, welcoming environment our children can come to. But I will stand by the old adage: If you see something, say something. If theres something that you just dont feel right or you dont think its right, call someone. Use the Safe2Say app to be able to put it into us, Keating explained.

Both superintendents say their enrollment numbers are growing by leaps and bounds, and that means space is limited.

For us right now, the biggest challenge right now is watching our enrollment numbers. Theyre much higher than we anticipated going into the 25-26 school year. In addition to that, we are seeing a very large increase of students who have IEP, especially autistic children, and making sure we have the right space for those students and we have enough space open up on the first day of school, Keating continued.

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Kind of reiterating what Dr. Keating said. Space. We are out of it. This is an unprecedented number of students coming into the district. Right now, we are sitting with a least 850 kindergarten students. We havent hit that since yet in August, that we always hit, Uplinger added.

You can see the entire interview with Uplinger and Keating 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 28/22 News.
Supporters of a fast-growing cash aid program for Michigan moms and babies urged lawmakers on Aug. 12 to expand the program, born out of Flint and now operating in eight other communities, even farther across the state.

Dubbed Rx Kids, the program is led by Flint pediatrician Dr. Mona Hanna and is designed to tackle infant poverty by providing "cash prescriptions"  $1,500 mid-pregnancy and then $500 a month up to a year of the baby's life. More than a year after launching, the program is open to eligible pregnant moms from parts of the Upper Peninsula and the west side of the state, and has garnered tens of millions of public and private dollars as well as interest from bipartisan lawmakers to propel its mission.

Advocates of the program want it to grow statewide. A bill, part of a broader legislative package introduced by Democratic state senators earlier this year to cut down costs for families with children, would do just that.

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Backers of Rx Kids, including lawmakers, participating moms, a funder and a leader from a Catholic public policy nonprofit, endorsed the program at a Senate committee hearing on Aug. 12.

"Every child deserves a healthy beginning, and every mother deserves the resources to nurture that future," said bill sponsor state Sen. Sylvia Santana, D-Detroit, at the Senate Committee on Housing and Human Services hearing.

Hanna, director of Rx Kids and associate dean of public health at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, said Rx Kids helps moms and babies during a consequential time.

"These are the months when a child's brain is developing at lightning speed. ... It's also a time when stress and scarcity can have lifelong impacts. What happens in this really neurodevelopmental period can shape your entire life course, and it's also during this window that families face the steepest expenses," Hanna said. "It's unprecedented, it is the greatest economic shock for families, because they need to buy things like diapers and cribs and still pay for rent and food. So, the most economically vulnerable window is also the same window of life that is the most neurodevelopmentally vulnerable."

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Rx Kids has so far distributed $13 million to more than 3,000 families in communities where it operates, including Flint, Kalamazoo, Pontiac, parts of the eastern Upper Peninsula and, most recently, Clare County. In the next few months, the program will launch in eight more communities in southeast Michigan, and is ready to go in other areas with need and the ability to raise matching funds, Hanna said.

"What we are hearing from families and what we are seeing in the data is that families tell us for the first time they are able to breathe, to keep the lights on, to pay the rent, to put healthy food on their table. The top items that families spend these cash prescriptions on is, number one, baby supplies," she said and urged lawmakers to expand Rx Kids statewide.

Tom Hickson, vice president for public policy and advocacy of the Michigan Catholic Conference, backed the legislation and said Rx Kids promotes human life and supports mothers in difficult situations.

"By helping mothers pay for critical prenatal and infant health care services and other expenses surrounding childbirth, Rx Kids can help mothers provide their babies the care they need, while in the womb and after they are born. Also from a Catholic perspective, Rx Kids is a positive step toward combating poverty," Hickson told lawmakers.

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The program  available in Chippewa, Luce, Mackinac, Alger and Schoolcraft counties  has been "completely transformative," said Austin Lowes, chairman of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Moms used the cash on baby supplies, food, utilities, rent and clothing, he said, citing initial surveys. The money helped moms in the region make ends meet and improve maternal and infant health, he said.

"This is a model program that is creating healthier children and stronger families, and it's an investment that Michigan is making that will return a lifetime of dividends for our communities," Lowes said. The Sault Tribe donated $200,000 to the program.

Steve Hall, health officer with Central Michigan District Health Department, told lawmakers he was skeptical of Rx Kids at first but the data has proven otherwise, citing the 88% of participants who reported improved financial security and the 86% who attended prenatal appointments. Rural Clare County, which his health department serves, is among the poorest and unhealthiest counties in Michigan, he said.

"Access to health care is a huge issue. There are no birthing hospitals in Clare County. In fact, we only have one birthing hospital in my entire six county jurisdiction," he said. "There are also no pediatricians in Clare County. Our families often must make difficult decisions: Do I put food on our table or do I go to my medical appointments? A pregnant mom that spoke during our kickoff event mentioned that she had to go to Ann Arbor once a month for medical appointments. That puts a tremendous financial strain on her family  something that this program will help."

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Michigan's Senate Bill 309 would require the department of health and human services to contract with Michigan State University  among the institutions behind Rx Kids  to establish and administer the program in providing cash to pregnant moms and monthly payments to households with a child under the age of 1 in designated areas, according to a bill analysis from the Senate Fiscal Agency.

It would cost $750 million to expand the program for the roughly 100,000 babies each year in Michigan. A supporter of Rx Kids, Republican state Sen. John Damoose, R-Harbor Springs, said the program depends on both public and private dollars and wouldn't need the full amount to expand from state funding, based on how it is run.

Bipartisan lawmakers in Michigan, including Damoose, saw early promise in the program and said theyre watching for a range of outcomes that would spell success, from increased birth rates and school enrollment to improvements in child development and health.

"The results have been stunning, and it's amazing how this program brings so many people together. I mean, finally, we're doing something we can all agree on," Damoose, who is part of the Senate committee, said on Aug. 12.

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Rx Kids is among dozens of programs across the country experimenting with providing direct cash payments to people with the greatest need.

As research continues, there's evidence that cash aid can ease financial hardships for families. Locally, survey results from Rx Kids in Flint indicate the program is alleviating financial challenges for participants. Nationally, the pandemic-era expansion of the Child Tax Credit  a tax break for eligible families with kids  cut child poverty in about half.

But researchers are still studying the impact of cash assistance. A working paper, published in May for the National Bureau of Economic Research, looked at the effect of monthly cash aid on child development. The study recruited 1,000 low-income moms who received either $333 a month or $20 a month for the first years of their children's lives. After four years, researchers did not find differences between the groups on several outcomes, including language, social-emotional problems and pre-literacy, according to the study.

Researchers mention multiple explanations for this, including the size of the cash aid and the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors said the findings raise "the possibility that income alone may not affect childrens early development" but point to the need for additional research.

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Rx Kids leaders posted their own response to the study on the program's website, noting that while the research is important, it took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, when child poverty fell as families received pandemic benefits and amid childhood social and learning disruptions, and "should not overshadow decades of research showing that meaningful support to families improves the well-being of children and their communities."

Contact reporter Nushrat Rahman: nrahman@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Bill seeks to take cash aid program for moms and babies statewide
The march for voting rights from Selma, Alabama, to the capital of Montgomery in 1965 wasnt meant to lead to the passage of the Voting Rights Act. But then came the horror of the scenes on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where police fractured the late John Lewis skull and beat organizer Amelia Boynton unconscious, with much of the violence caught on camera. It swayed public opinion: President Lyndon Johnson delivered the voting rights bill to Congress soon after, and it became law on Aug. 6, 1965.

So, we will move step by step  often painfully but, I think, with clear vision  along the path toward American freedom, Johnson said upon signing the bill.

Sixty years later, opponents of the Voting Rights Act have moved step by step, often painfully, backwards on that path. In the hands of conservative opponents of voting rights, the Supreme Court has subjected the Voting Rights Act to death by a thousand cuts. Some of those cuts have been small, such as limiting how courts consider challenges brought under the law. And some have been large, as in the 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder that ended the requirement for certain states with histories of discrimination to submit election changes and district maps to the Department of Justice for approval.

Related: Trump Hides Barack Obamas Portrait, And Gavin Newsom Sums Up Why In Just 6 Words

As the Supreme Court delivers decisions that will irrevocably alter our democracy, independent journalism is more vital than ever. Your support helps HuffPost hold power to account and keep you informed at this critical moment. Stand with the free press. Become a member today.

But now the court appears ready for one final cut, to kill off the last remaining piece of the act that allows the people to challenge racially discriminatory election practices.

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On the evening of Aug. 1, the court released its briefing question for rearguments in the case of Louisiana v. Callais, now called Callais v. Landry. That question, which is meant to instruct lawyers on what issue is under debate, asked whether Louisianas intentional creation of a second majority-minority congressional district violates the Fourteenth or Fifteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. This now sets up arguments about whether Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, the last remaining bulwark of the law post-Shelby County, is unconstitutional for requiring the use of race in some instances of redistricting. The court will hear arguments on Oct. 15, early enough for a decision that could impact the 2026 midterms.

Flower petals lie on the Edmund Pettus Bridge ahead of Rep. John Lewis' casket crossing during a memorial service for Lewis on July 26, 2020, in Selma, Alabama. Brynn Anderson via Associated Press

Section 2 bans electoral practices that lead to a denial or abridgment of the right ... to vote and that leave minority voters with less opportunity ... to participate in the political processes and to elect representatives of their choice than white voters. Under the law, people can challenge electoral practices they believe violate that law in court, whether the practices allegedly infringe on voter access or deny representation through gerrymandering.

A decision that declares Section 2 unconstitutional would leave the act toothless and threaten the existence of minority representation, particularly Black representation, across the South.

If this goes the way it looks like its going to go, its going to be Shelby County on steroids, said Nicholas Stephanopoulos, law professor at Harvard University. This is going to be the single most catastrophic moment for minority voters since the 1870s or 1880s.

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Louisiana v. Callais first came before the court in 2025 as part of a yearslong series of Voting Rights Act cases stemming from the states 2021 congressional redistricting. The initial map adopted by the white- and Republican-dominated state government included just one Black-majority district out of seven, despite the Black population accounting for one-third of the states population. Black Louisianans brought a Section 2 challenge to the map, saying that it violated Section 2 by denying a second Black-majority seat when a cohesive and compact district could be drawn. They won before a three-judge appeals court panel.

To comply with the ruling, the Republican-run state government redrew its maps to accommodate a second Black-majority district, but it also used the occasion to shore up districts held by Republicans Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Julia Letlow. The new district took an odd shape, stretching 250 miles from Shreveport to Baton Rouge.

Related: Stephen Miller's Wife Just Spilled The Beans On His Favorite Condiment  And It Tracks

A group of non-African American plaintiffs then challenged the new district for being drawn with too much of a reliance on race: While the Voting Rights Act requires race to be taken into consideration in certain instances, Supreme Court precedent states that the consideration of race cannot be the main factor, or else it could violate the 14th Amendments Equal Protection Clause.

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Both the state of Louisiana and the original Black plaintiffs, represented by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, found themselves on the same side defending the new district map. Louisiana claimed that the lines for the new district were drawn according to politics, a permitted factor, not race. The Supreme Court heard arguments in March, at the time centering on whether race or politics predominated. But it chose not to issue a ruling by the end of the term. Instead, it announced that it would rehear the case with a new question to come. Now, we know that question.

Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh declared his interest in the "temporal argument" that Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act must have an end date in 2022. CHIP SOMODEVILLA via Getty Images

Even raising the question of whether Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act violates the 14th and 15th Amendments has set off alarm bells in the voting rights community. One big reason why is because of what Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote in a concurrence for a very similar case in 2022.

In Allen v. Milligan, the court upheld a lower court ruling requiring Alabama to draw a second Black-majority district under Section 2 by a 5-4 vote. In dissent, Justice Clarence Thomas argued that, despite Congress reauthorization and updates to the Voting Rights Act, Section 2 cannot continue forever into the future. Since the act was amended in 1982, whatever discriminatory practices that it was meant to remedy are no longer applicable 42 years later, he argued, so it must have an end date as it lacks any such salutary limiting principles. Kavanaugh concurred, adding hints of what arguments future cases could bring.

The authority to conduct race-based redistricting cannot extend indefinitely into the future, Kavanaugh wrote. But Alabama did not raise that temporal argument in this Court, and I therefore would not consider it at this time.

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During oral arguments in Louisiana v. Callais in March, Kavanaugh was almost entirely focused on this temporal argument.

On equal protection law, the Courts long said that race-based remedial action must have a logical end point, must be limited in time, must be a temporary matter. How does that principle apply to Section 2? Kavanaugh asked.

And now the court is re-hearing that case with the question of Section 2s constitutionality raised.

Theres a disagreement on the court and they want to use this case to resolve that disagreement, said Justin Levitt, a law professor at Loyola Law School.

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If Kavanaughs temporal argument is at the heart of this disagreement, then there may now be five votes to either greatly limit Section 2s reach or kill it entirely. That could have a cataclysmic impact on minority representation in Congress, state legislatures, city councils, county boards and any other office that relies on district line drawing.

Related: Melania Trump Demands Hunter Biden Retract 'Extremely Salacious' Epstein Comments

If this were to happen it would mean that scores and scores of districts that everyone thinks are now protected by Section 2 would no longer have any particular reason to exist the way they do, Stephanopolous said.

Just look at what happened after the court disabled Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act in its Shelby County decision. Southern states, whose histories of discrimination required them to get changes to voting policies approved before enacting them, quickly moved to enact restrictive voting rules. In North Carolina, a federal court found that GOP lawmakers had target[ed] African Americans with almost surgical precision and struck down their election law under Section 2.

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Section 2 was then, and is still now, an available tool for plaintiffs to bring racial discrimination and dilution cases. In Shelby County, Roberts explicitly stated that Section 2 remained a permanent recourse for racially discriminatory actions even if Section 5 would be disabled. When Alabama and Louisiana redrew their maps in 2021, courts forced them to redraw them with additional Black-majority seats.

But now the response to that Louisiana case threatens to end what Roberts only 12 years ago called permanent. If the court finds Section 2 to be unconstitutional, it could lead to a racial version of what the country is currently seeing with partisan gerrymandering after the court said that could not be litigated in federal courts in its 2019 decision in Rucho v. Common Cause.

Black and Latino majority districts across the South and beyond could be wiped out. Black congressional and state legislative representation that boomed post-1965 could be completely reversed with the elimination of the 11 Black majority districts, all held by Democrats, across GOP-controlled Southern states and countless Black majority state legislative districts. If the court holds that the use of race in drawing districts at all is unconstitutional, then these states would have free rein  even legal justification  to eliminate these districts.

Related: GOP Confirms Anti-Voting Rights Extremist To Protect Americans' Voting Rights

We would quickly see a return to all white congressional delegations and in state legislative chambers and local maps in many places around the country, Stephanopolous said. This would be a much bigger deal than Shelby County. It would apply nationwide.

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And while the most likely outcome is a devastating outcome, based on the fact that the court is re-hearing this case with the new constitutionality question, according to Stephanopolous. It isnt a foregone conclusion.

This might be a very big deal at the end of the day, but it also might not, Levitt said.

There are any number of off-ramps for the court to take in Louisiana v. Callais to avoid striking down Section 2. They could find that politics predominated over race in drawing the new district, or that the state should simply redraw a new district that is more compact or restrict the use of Section 2 without killing it entirely.

But these were, by and large, potential options available for the justices when they first heard the case this spring. Instead, they chose to re-hear the case with a new question.

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Theyve made a hard case for themselves out of nothing, Levitt said.

The end result may be the end of the Voting Rights Act and the full realization of representative democracy it brought to life over the past 60 years. It would mark the country stepping off that path toward American freedom.

More on Politics

Wall Street Journal Gives Trump A Stern Warning

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Read the original on HuffPost
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  The Florida Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to halt next weeks scheduled execution of Kayle Bates in the 1982 murder of a woman who was abducted from a State Farm insurance office in Bay County.

The Supreme Court rejected a series of arguments raised by attorneys for Bates, including that evidence of organic brain damage was not adequately considered before Bates received the death penalty during a 1995 resentencing proceeding.

He was resentenced in 1995, and he could have raised these arguments in the 30 years since, the Supreme Courts 22-page opinion said. He has not offered any persuasive reason why this evidence is newly discovered or timely now.

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Bates attorneys also argued in a brief that a 9-3 jury recommendation that led to Bates death sentence was based on a fatal untruth. The brief said jurors were misled to believe Bates could be released on parole in 12 years if he was not sentenced to death.

But the Supreme Court pointed to previous appeals and said Bates has made this argument multiple times. And each time, we have rejected it.

Gov. Ron DeSantis on July 18 signed a death warrant for Bates, 67, who is scheduled to be executed Aug. 19. Bates would be the 10th inmate executed this year in Florida. Also, DeSantis has signed a death warrant for Curtis Windom, who would be executed Aug. 28 in the 1992 murders of three people in Orange County.

Florida set a modern-era record for executions in a year when Edward Zakrzewski was put to death by lethal injection on July 31 for the 1994 murders of his wife and two children in Okaloosa County. The previous record for executions in a year was eight in 1984 and 2014.

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Bates was a delivery driver who stopped at the insurance office where Janet Renee White worked in June 1982. Later, White, who went by her middle name, returned from lunch and found Bates waiting for her after he broke into the building, according to the Supreme Court opinion.

Bates attacked her, but Renee fought back, the opinion said. Despite her best efforts, Bates overpowered Renee and forced her into the woods behind the office. Once there, Bates brutally beat her, inflicting over 30 contusions, bruises, abrasions, and lacerations. He ripped off her wedding ring, causing serious injury to her finger. He attempted to rape her. He strangled her. And while Renee was still alive, Bates stabbed her twice in the chest. She died from the totality of her wounds a few minutes later.

Tuesdays opinion was shared by Chief Justice Carlos Muniz and Justices Charles Canady, John Couriel, Jamie Grosshans, Renatha Francis and Meredith Sasso. Justice Jorge Labarga concurred with the result but did not sign on to the opinion.

Such opinions in death-penalty cases are typically appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. Bates attorneys filed an appeal at the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, after the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against Bates on a separate issue.

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The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops on Tuesday released a letter that urged DeSantis to commute Bates sentence to life in prison without a chance of parole.

Bates actions were horrific, Michael Sheedy, the conferences executive director, wrote in the letter. It is entirely proper for the state to punish crimes of this nature very severely. Nevertheless, even as we pray for the repose of Ms. Whites soul and for her husbands consolation, we urge you to spare Mr. Bates life. Every human life, given by God, is sacred.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Louisiana Attorney General announced that the United States Supreme Court set a date to hear rearguments in the states redistricting case.

AG Liz Murrill shared that the Court scheduled the reargument for Wednesday, Oct. 15. Louisiana Solicitor General Ben Aguinaga will argue the case on behalf of the state.

She added that the states brief is due in two weeks.

Timeline of the Case

In January 2024, the Louisiana legislature approved a new congressional map that created a second majority-Black district.

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That same month, a group of non-Black voters filed a lawsuit in the Western District of Louisiana, claiming that the map didnt meet the Equal Protection Clause requirements and said the layout was an impermissible racial gerrymander. A three-judge panel decided to throw out the new map, as it cuts the 4th district, covering western Louisiana, in half with the 6th district.

In May 2024, the lawsuit was headed to the Supreme Court, where it was granted an emergency stay, allowing the state to use the new map for the 2024 elections.

By November 2024, the Supreme Court granted certiorari in the states appeal.

The first oral arguments were heard on March 24, 2025. The Supreme Court was divided on its decision. Some justices suggested throwing out the map and making it harder to bring redistricting lawsuits under the Voting Rights Act.

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On June 27, the Supreme Court ordered a re-argument, asking for additional clarity on constitutional questions, including whether the district could violate the 14th or 15th Amendments.

Both parties were ordered to file briefs on Aug. 1. The Appellants must submit the briefs by Aug. 27.

Louisiana officials react after US Supreme Court delays ruling on states congressional map

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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  According to a survey conducted late last year by the company Polco, more than 80% of respondents rate Johnson City as an excellent or good place to live.

Its a great place to live, one Johnson City resident said. Im happy to raise my child here.

I heard its the number one place to move to now, another resident said. So, thats pretty crazy.

Sheriff: Extra downtown Johnson City patrols to continue as long as necessary

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Despite the high ratings, the survey shows a decline in honesty, transparency, and informing residents about issues in the community, which is similar to the national benchmark.

Johnson City Mayor John Hunter said it is important to remember the context of when the survey was conducted.

The reality is this survey was put out last fall, Hunter said. We had a national election. Washington County had just raised property taxes on the heels of the property assessor reassessing the values of property.

A lot of outside factors play into this, and so the content of this is important, but theres context that goes with it. Those kinds of things play into that that maybe arent necessarily related to what Johnson City specifically is doing.

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In recent weeks, community organizers have pushed the city for greater transparency and communication.

Johnson City residents voice concerns at community-led town hall

Hunter said the city is facing litigation for some issues and cannot discuss them at this point.

I get that frustration, Hunter said. I would relate that to the fact that were in open litigation and theres some things at this point in time we cant talk about.

We put out as much information as we can. It may not be everything everybody wants to hear, but its what were able to give at this point in time.

In the survey, the city was able to include custom questions. One of those questions asked respondents if they supported limiting the hours of alcohol sales in bars and restaurants.

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28% said they strongly supported the idea, while 22% were strongly opposed.

Of all respondents, whether they were for or against, when asked, would this create a safer environment for our city, 80-some percent responded, absolutely, Hunter said.

There are a few people in our community that have been upset about a lot of things lately and they come and speak at every meeting, so their voices have been heard, Hunter said. The reality is, you know, with the last call specifically, thats been, I mean, were looking at over a year now that the public has been aware of that particular ordinance or the discussions around it.

Hunter said he believes the survey will be a tool for future plans in Johnson City.

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I think is a great indicator as to whats been going on in the city overall and that people enjoy and feel good about the place they live, Hunter said.

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The Indian Air Force will hold a public performance by the Air Force Band at Guwahati's War Memorial, Digholi Pukhuri, at 5:30 PM on Independence Day as part of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. The event is being conducted under the direction of the Ministry of Defence and Air Headquarters, aimed at fostering national pride and celebrating India's recent accomplishments, including the successful conduct of Operation Sindoor, according to an official statement from the Public Relations Officer (PRO) in Guwahati. The No 7 AF Band, based at Air Force Station, Borjhar, will comprise 25 skilled musicians performing a collection of 16 patriotic songs and tunes during a 75-minute musical presentation, according to the statement. "This inspiring performance will serve as a tribute to the valor and sacrifice of India's bravehearts and showcase the Indian Air Force's dedication, discipline, and artistic excellence," the statement added. The venue will feature thematic selfie points and informational banners highlighting India's major national milestones, including the Chandrayaan Mission, Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Fit India Movement, and the UDAN Scheme. Special emphasis will also be laid on the success of Operation Sindoor, symbolising the nation's strategic capability and professional military planning. The Indian Air Force warmly invites all citizens of Guwahati to witness this grand musical tribute and join in celebrating the spirit of freedom, unity, and national pride on 15 August 2025. In Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami hoisted the tricolour under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign at the CM's residence in Dehradun. The Chief Minister said that the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, started with the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "has today become a great campaign of patriotism by reaching every person. The tricolour is a living symbol of our freedom, unity and rich cultural heritage." He also urged people in the state to hoist the tricolour with pride and respect at their homes, offices and shops this Independence Day, and to salute the brave fighters who sacrificed for the independence of the country. (ANI)
(Getty Images)

A new survey sheds some light on the people behind Nevadas elevated unemployment rate, which has consistently remained higher than all other states and higher than prepandemic levels.

The Center for Business and Economic Research at UNLV surveyed more than 300 Nevadans who self-identified as unemployed and seeking a job. The results, released this week, suggest there are disconnects between the jobs people desire, the ones they are qualified for, and whats actually available.

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The center, which worked on the Nevada Job Seeker Survey with the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation, believes the insights could be useful as the state continues to navigate post-pandemic economy recovery and braces for more economic uncertainty ahead.

The survey indicated that over half of job seekers want to work in a different industry than the last job they held, but that they arent eyeing the most rapidly growing fields. Transportation, hospitality, and administration were the desired industries. The survey did not document what industries workers had left.

Researchers wrote job seekers desires is something the state should consider, because, while those industries are currently dominant, they arent growing as fast as other areas.

The states fastest-growing sector, health care, was desired by only 15.5% of survey respondents, ranking 7th among the options available. The top three desired industries are expected to grow at roughly half the rate of health care over the next decade.

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The CBER survey didnt break out occupations by subsectors, but the health care sector includes home health and personal care aides, the occupation that has grown the most nationally for at least a decade, is projected to grow more than any other occupation through 2033, and paid a median annual wage of less than $35,000 in 2024.

Structural unemployemnt problem

When asked in the survey what the biggest challenge to transitioning to a new job would be, the lack of available job opportunities was the most selected response statewide. Regionally, job availability as a perceived barrier was most pronounced among unemployed people in Clark County

Educationally, lack of job opportunities was cited by nearly 40% of those surveyed who have bachelors degrees, compared to roughly 27% of respondents with either associates or high school degrees.

Citing research indicating just over half of Nevada jobs require skills beyond high school but short of a bachelors degree, the state has an oversupply of workers with high school diplomas and bachelors degrees relative to demand.

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Southern Nevada has seen strong regional employment growth, the report notes, suggesting a mismatch between available jobs and job seekers skills or interests.

Transportation was the second most selected answer statewide, but the topmost answer selected by rural Nevadans. It was also the biggest perceived barrier for respondents aged 24 and younger.

Inadequate skills training and certifications was the third most selected response statewide, but the top answer in Washoe County. (For comparison, Clark County respondents listed inadequate skills as the fourth biggest obstacle.)

Forbes last year ranked Reno as having one of the highest percentages of residents aged 25 and up with a bachelors degree. Referencing that ranking, the CBER report concluded the current labor market may not align with the qualifications of job seekers. That is, a structural unemployment problem exists.

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The influx of tech and manufacturing companies in Reno has created more higher skills job opportunities, but might be limiting opportunities for individuals without advanced credentials or specialized training in the tech industry, the report said.

Reasons for unemployment

The survey found the top reasons for job separation included involuntary layoffs, family obligations, and health issues.

Being laid off was the most-cited reason for all respondents, but were more commonly cited by those with lower levels of education and Hispanic Nevadans.

Among the short-term unemployed  that is, people whove been unemployed for fewer than six months  family obligations were the leading reason cited for leaving their last job: 23.8%.

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CBER noted that, while family obligations can include elder care or other types of care, its prevalence as a reason cited for unemployment was most pronounced for people with children. It was the top reason cited by parents with one child, and a close second (behind involuntary layoff) for those with two to four children. Those findings align with similar surveys conducted nationally, according to researchers.

Previous surveys have found that employers are aware that childcare issues are a barrier to employer retention and recruitment.

CBER found that womens employment is disproportionately impacted by family obligations: 22.5% of women cited them as the reason for leaving their last job, compared to 14.8% of men.

Behind layoffs and family obligations were health-related factors: 16.7% of respondents cited it as the leading cause. CBER noted that no demographics stood out as being more impacted, indicating that personal health concerns can affect individuals broadly.

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The results on separations differed from the year prior. In 2023, involuntary layoff was also ranked first, but made up a smaller share  21.4% in 2024 compared to 15% in 2023. Family obligations was the third most common reason cited in 2023, behind work environment, which dropped to the fifth most common reason.

For the full report, visit CBERs website.
WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 09: Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) makes remarks during a hearing held to examine a future without Type 1 Diabetes with a focus on accelerating breakthroughs and creating hope at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on July 09, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Breakthrough T1D)

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins drew President Donald Trumps ire last week in a departure from the unusual deference he has shown toward the Maine Republican.

Trump told Republicans in a Truth Social post, when in doubt, vote the exact opposite of Collins, not referencing any vote in particular. Generally speaking, you cant go wrong, Trump wrote. Thank you for your attention to this matter and, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

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Political scientists see the jab as notable but refrained from speculating about whether it signals a shift in their relationship or Collins political future, as she is up for reelection in 2026. Maine Republicans and Trump have rejected the idea of forcing a primary on Collins, though someone familiar with the conversation told Politico recently that the president would love to see a better option.

Despite the presidents comment, Collins approach to Trump hasnt changed much during his second term, said Mark Brewer, chair of the political science department at the University of Maine. Rather, Brewer said, how Maines senior senator continues to handle disagreements with his administration illustrates that she is continuing to try to find a middle ground.

Shes been operating the way that shes, I think, consistently operated, Brewer said. Shell say this publicly, when she doesnt agree with what the presidents doing, shell vote against him. Other times, if shes supportive of the policy, maybe not necessarily some of the things he does but the underlying policy, shell vote in favor of it.

That was exactly her response when asked about the presidents criticism of her voting record. I cast each vote based on what is right for Maine and America, Collins said in a statement. Sometimes that means I agree with the President and sometimes I disagree.

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When Maine Morning Star spoke to voters this past spring about Collins role during Trumps second term, some constituents critiqued her piecemeal approach to fighting his cuts to federal programs and funding, arguing that a focus on Trumps individual actions wouldnt be effective in deterring the president as he convoluted the federal governments system of checks and balances.

That balancing act is currently being tested on an issue Collins has been a vocal proponent of: medical research.

Public comments

The first full hearing this Congress of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which Collins chairs, was titled Biomedical research: Keeping Americas edge in innovation. During her opening remarks, Collins emphasized that the research was a high priority for the committee and stated that no investment pays greater dividends to Americans.

Very troubling are the administrations abrupt cancellation of grants, proposals to slash federal funding, and laying off scientists and technical experts with apparently little or no justification, Collins said. These actions put our leadership in biomedical innovation at real risk and must be reversed.

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The Trump administration has also been slow to disburse National Institutes of Health funding as the end of the fiscal year approaches on September 30. Collins and 13 of her Republican colleagues sent a letter to Russell Vought, director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, late last month to share their concerns.

In their attempt to encourage follow through, the Republicans made appeals to the presidents agenda to slash anything he views as government waste, stating that they believed NIH leadership would ensure the funds are not diverted to ideological or unaccountable programs.

This approach was markedly different from comments by Congress top Democratic appropriators, including Washington Sen. Patty Murray, who said in a statement, this administration is lying about waste, fraud, and abuse at NIH to justify attacking medical research.

The administration has since backtracked on funds frozen during what they chalked up to a programmatic review but hasnt fully addressed the widespread delay of disbursements.

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This week, the Government Accountability Office, an independent congressional watchdog, concluded that the Trump administration violated federal law when canceling NIH grants and slowing new awards.

Votes

While lawmakers on both sides of the aisle issued statements advocating for the research funds, a legislative proposal was brought forward.

Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois proposed an amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education appropriations bill that would have reinstated NIH and other grants that the Trump administration terminated. Stating the issue was not partisan, Durbin listed off examples from several states impacted by such cuts, including Maine, when introducing the amendment.

Sen. Collins, Maine Health: two awards canceled or frozen totaling $323,000, including research to focus on rural health needs, and Mount Desert Island Biological Lab has one $5 million award frozen, Durbin said during the committee meeting.

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Collins, the last to vote, rejected that amendment, which narrowly failed 14-15.

Collins Communications Director Phoebe Ferraiolo said the amendment was too broadly drafted and would make it impossible for this administration and future administrations to cancel any grants, including grants that were failing or duplicative.

Senator Collins believes that, regardless of who is in the White House, the administration should be provided the ability to review these programs, Ferraiolo added.

That sort of blanket treatment is something Collins has often pointed to when defending her record, specifically on procedural votes. Its also something some constituents have critiqued as inadequate as Trump has upended established procedure. Theyve also critiqued what they see as Collins piecemeal approach to funding restorations.

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When explaining that Collins has had success with pushing back on Trump administration decisions she disagrees with, Ferraiolo pointed to the reinstatement of some NIH grants in June for Jackson Laboratory, MDI Biological Laboratory and MaineHealth. Collins previously highlighted her ability to restore some cuts through her conversations out of public view in an interview with Maine Morning Star this past spring.

However, the overall structure of how NIH grants will be awarded going forward, and therefore these organizations funding long term, is at risk.

Upended procedure

The presidents change in tone on Collins comes as Congress approaches the deadline to pass spending bills for the next fiscal year. The early version of the the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education appropriations bill and others, which Collins had a hand in crafting, signal lawmakers may not give the president as large of cuts as he wants.

In the marked up version of the labor, health and education bill, which will advance to the full Senate after lawmakers return from August recess, the committee largely rejected the Trump administrations proposals to slash funding for medical research grants and other programs.

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Included is a $150 million increase for cancer research and a $100 million increase for Alzheimers disease research, as well as a ban on an administration cap on indirect costs at the NIH, according to a summary from Democrats.

Collins questioned NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya in February on the proposed cap on how much NIH pays research universities and medical schools for indirect costs. Shes also said its against federal law. The cap is currently the subject of a permanent injunction in an ongoing lawsuit.

Brewer said, in some ways, the current appropriations cycle appears to be returning to its typical procedures.

Theyve put some money back in from some things that Trump wanted to take out, Brewer said. As long as we stay on that, quote unquote, more normal process, then I think [Collins] role as chair of appropriations once again becomes very important.

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However, Brewer is hesitant that that will be the case.

Democrats are saying, Well, look, were not going to negotiate spending packages when youre out there ripping money back after weve already approved it, Brewer said.

When it comes to NIH research, even if Collins and other members of Congress can secure increased funding for the agency, the Trump administrations budget maneuvers have set up the NIH to be able to receive fewer grants.

The NIH started changing the way it funds grants earlier this year, front-loading funds so researchers receive all money on day one rather than the NIH having to build years-long research grants in its budget.

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The shift is already lowering the chances that a scientists proposal will receive funding and many, including Collins, have raised concern that this method could result in future reductions.

Congress cannot stop the administration from forward-funding grants, Collins told Roll Call.

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A man suspected in the 2008 slaying of Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputy Juan Escalante was among 26 fugitives the U.S. has taken into custody from Mexico, the Department of Justice announced.

Escalante, 27, was shot and killed that August in front of his mothers house in Cypress Park, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects and the search for Roberto Salazar, who was charged with murder although he had not been apprehended.

In a news release on Tuesday, the DOJ listed Salazar among the fugitives sent to the U.S. from Mexico to face federal and state criminal charges from around the country.

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These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores  under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to Mexicos National Security team for their collaboration in this matter, Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated in the release.

Others on the list will face charges related to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, money laundering and other crimes, the news release stated.

Escalante, who was a father of three, had been working with the Sheriffs Department for about two-and-a-half years when he was killed. He was also a U.S. Army Reserve member and Iraq War veteran.

Deputy Juan Escalante, 27, seen in a photo from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

Last year, L.A. County officials approved a $20,000 reward in an effort to bring renewed attention to the search for additional suspects in Escalantes killing.

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He will live in our hearts & never be forgotten, LASD said in a memorial post on X.

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IMPERIAL BEACH, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  A man was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of robbery at a bank in Imperial Beach.

The incident occurred just before 2 p.m. at a Chase Bank in the 1100 block of Palm Avenue, the San Diego County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

A customer was making a cash deposit with a bank teller when the suspect approached the woman from behind, grabbed her money and ran out of the bank, according to authorities. The suspect then got into a car and drove away.

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25-year-old sentenced to 12 years for fatal DUI crash that killed 4 men

The victim suffered minor injuries from holding onto the car in attempt to stop the suspect from leaving the area, per SDSO.

The suspect, identified as Roberto Galvan, 40, was arrested in El Cajon after police spotted him in their jurisdiction.

Anyone with information about the incident can call the Imperial Beach Sheriffs Substation at 619-498-2400.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
QUITMAN COUNTY, Ga. (WRBL)  Agents with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are investigating a shooting that happened in Quitman County where the suspect died after being shot by the Sheriff.

According to the GBI, on Monday, around 8:30 a.m., the Quitman County Sheriffs Office responded to a home on Lucy Lane in reference to a man who had attacked a woman.

Quitman County Sheriff Charles Davis responded to the scene and encountered the suspect, who has been identified as 41-year-old Maurice Spann, of Abbeville, AL.

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The GBI says Spann attacked Davis, and he shot Spann. He was pronounced dead at the scene and Davis was not injured in the incident.

The GBI medical examiner will conduct an autopsy on Spann, while the investigation remains active.

Heres our statement on the officer involved shooting in Quitman County, GA. The Quitman County Sheriffs Office asked the GBI to conduct an independent investigation.



: https://t.co/XIKiTyvlR6 pic.twitter.com/yxmBO74ctU  GA Bureau of Investigation (@GBI_GA) August 12, 2025

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Airport authorities said they arrested a suspected drug mule for the second time in three days at Dulles International Airport (IAD), seizing nearly two dozen pounds of marijuana in the process.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) Police officers said 27-year-old Octavious Lamar Dozier, of Atlanta, Ga., is facing felony charges after he tried to transport the marijuana in his UK-bound luggage.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers were inspecting checked baggage being loaded onto a Dublin-bound flight on Aug. 5 and found numerous vacuum-sealed packages inside a suitcase.

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Trump administration threatens jail time for homeless on DC streets

Dozier was intercepted at the departure gate and escorted to CBPs inspection station.

Officers said they found a total of 14 vacuum-sealed packages inside the suitcase, which field-tested positive for marijuana. It weighed 23 pounds and had a street value of about $90,000  which could fetch two or three times more in Europe.

Dozier was charged with transporting a controlled substance into the Commonwealth and possession with intent to distribute.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Aug. 12Wednesday will see more hot and dry conditions in the Spokane area, triggering a red flag fire weather warning from the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service anticipates a high of 92 degrees, down 7 degrees from what was registered at Felt Fields Tuesday, according to NWS meteorologist Antoinette Serrato.

With a streak of minimum relative humidity in the teens and high temperatures, fire warnings are in place across the region. On Wednesday, wind gusts are amplifying concerns.

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"There are going to be some pretty strong westerly winds throughout the area, especially through Spokane, but also throughout the Cascade Gaps, the Upper Columbia Basin and the Lewiston and Pullman areas as well," Serrato said. "They could lead to pretty quickly increased fire spread, and they could lead to some patchy blowing dust."

Serrato said winds could reach 40 mph between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

She expects cooler weather to move through the region on Thursday, lowering temperatures to the upper 70s and low 80s. There is a chance for 0.1 inches of rain Friday or Saturday, she added.

Caroline Saint James' 's reporting was funded by Comma's First Amendment Club.
Switzerland extended its sanctions lists to align with the EU's 18th package against Russia, specifically targeting Moscow's largest budget revenue source  oil exports, the Swiss government said on Aug. 12.

The European Union approved "one of its strongest" 18th sanctions packages against Russia on July 18, cutting the oil price cap from $60 to $47.6 per barrel and targeting 105 vessels in Moscow's "shadow fleet".

According to the Swiss government's statement, Switzerland will also lower the oil price cap accordingly and impose sanctions against Russian "shadow fleet" vessels that help Moscow circumvent oil export sanctions and transport military goods for Russia.

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Switzerland is not fully adopting the EU sanctions package, as some measures in goods trading, finance, and energy are currently under review by the Swiss government.

The country did not implement sanctions against Russian-owned Nord Stream gas pipelines, Chinese banks that facilitate sanctions evasion, or Rosneft's largest Indian refinery  Nayara Energy.

Restrictions on Russian oil product imports through third countries and sanctions against Russia's liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector were also not imposed.

Aligning with some EU measures, the Swiss Economy Ministry imposed asset freeze measures on 14 individuals and 41 entities for supporting Russia's war and sanctions evasion.

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Swiss authorities also tightened export controls on 26 new entities for circumventing restrictions on unmanned aerial vehicles.

The measures take effect Aug. 12, except for the amended oil price cap, which starts Sept. 3, according to the governments's statement.

Switzerland also imposed sanctions against seven individuals and three entities linked to Russian interference in Moldova's elections and froze assets of eight Belarusian defense companies.

Read also: Zelensky arrives in Berlin to meet German chancellor ahead of call with Trump, European leaders

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Tuvan Gumrukcu

ANKARA (Reuters) -The Kurdish YPG militia, which heads the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), should stop "playing for time" and honour its agreement to integrate with the Syrian government, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Wednesday.

NATO-member Turkey has been one of Syria's main foreign allies after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last year, while it considers both the SDF and YPG to be terrorist organisations.

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The SDF, which controls much of northeast Syria, signed an agreement with Damascus in March to integrate into the Syrian state apparatus.

"The YPG/SDF must stop its policy of playing for time," Fidan told a press conference with his Syrian counterpart Asaad al-Shibani in Ankara.

"Just because we approach (the process) with good intentions does not mean we don't see your little ruses," Fidan said.

Fidan visited Damascus last week following clashes between the SDF and Syrian government forces in Manbij and Aleppo, and after weeks of tensions between Israel and Syria over fighting between Druze and Bedouin forces around Sweida last month.

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"A new era has begun in the region and there's a new process in Turkey," Fidan said, referring to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militant group's decision to disarm and disband. The YPG "should benefit from those positive developments".

Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the PKK but the YPG has said the disarmament call of jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan did not apply to it, contradicting Ankara's view.

"We witness some developments in Syria that we find hard to tolerate," Fidan said. "We see that members (of the YPG) who came from Turkey, Iraq and Iran have not left Syria."

Shibani criticised the SDF for holding a conference which called for a review of the constitutional declaration issued earlier this year by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

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He said the SDF was trying to exploit the violence in Sweida and decried the conference as a violation of the agreement to integrate the SDF into state institutions.

The SDF has been in conflict with Turkish-backed Syrian armed groups in northern Syria for years. Ankara has carried out several incursions against the YPG in the past and controls swathes of territory in northern Syria.

Following a meeting between the Syrian delegation and Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler later, the Turkish defence ministry said the sides signed a memorandum of understanding on military training and consultancy.

Ankara and Damascus had for months been negotiating a more comprehensive military cooperation agreement, and the memorandum signed on Wednesday marks the first step towards this, according to a Turkish defence ministry source.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara and Tala Ramadan in Dubai, Writing by Huseyin Hayatsever; Editing by Daren Butler, Alexandra Hudson and Giles Elgood)
"The YPG/SDF must stop its policy of playing for time," Fidan told a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart Asaad al-Shibani in Ankara.

The Kurdish YPG militia, which spearheads the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), should stop "playing for time" and abide by its integration agreement with the Syrian government, Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Wednesday.

NATO-memberTurkey has been one of Syria's main foreign allies after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last year, while it considers both the SDF and YPG as terrorist organizations.

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The SDF, which controls much of northeast Syria, signed an agreement with Damascus in March to integrate into the Syrian state apparatus.

"The YPG/SDF must stop its policy of playing for time," Fidan told a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpartAsaad al-Shibani in Ankara.

"Just because we approach (the process) with good intentions does not mean we don't see your little ruses," Fidan said.

KURDISH FIGHTERS from the Peoples Protection Units (YPG) run across a street in Raqqa, Syria in July. (credit: GORAN TOMASEVIC/REUTERS)

Fidan visited Damascus last week, following clashes between the SDF and Syrian government forces in Manbij and Aleppo, and after weeks of tensions between Israel and Syria over fighting between Druze and Bedouin forces around Sweida last month.

Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the PKK

"A new era has begun in the region and there's a new process in Turkey. They should benefit from those positive developments," Fidan said, referring to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militant group's decision to disarm and disband.

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Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the PKK but the YPG has said the disarmament call of jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan did not apply to it, contradicting Ankara's view.

"We witness some developments in Syria that we find hard to tolerate," Fidan said. "We see that members (of the YPG) who came from Turkey, Iraq and Iran have not left Syria."

Shibani criticized the SDF for holding a conference which called for a review of the constitutional declaration issued earlier this year by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and said it sought to exploit the events in Sweida. He also called the conference a violation of the agreement to integrate the SDF into state institutions.

The SDF has been in conflict with Turkey-backed Syrian armed groups in northern Syria for years. Ankara has carried out several incursions against the YPG in the past and controls swathes of territory in northern Syria.
Bloomberg: U.S. officials and analysts say that Chinese companies have built up a network of ports around the world in order to exercise control over global commerce, conduct espionage, and enable far seas missions for the Chinese military. How does China respond to these accusations?

Lin Jian: These accusations are just aimed at creating anxiety. We hope the U.S. will stop overstretching the concept of security, stop peddling so-called China threat, and stop smearing and disrupting Chinas economic and trade cooperation with other countries.

Reuters: China has urged local companies to avoid using Nvidia Corp.s H20 processors, particularly for government or national security-related work. Chinese regulators have raised concerns directly with Nvidia about whether its chips contain vulnerabilities. What is Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: I am not familiar with what you mentioned.

Reuters: The Nauru government has released a statement announcing that the country has secured an AU$1 billion socio-economic development project with a Chinese company. The companys Chairman has signed the phase 1 investment project proposal with Naurus Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister. Can the foreign ministry confirm and comment on the cooperation project? (Similar question from the AP)

Lin Jian: I am not aware of the specifics that you mentioned. On overseas projects invested by Chinese companies, I would refer you to competent authorities.
Congress MP and leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, continued his attack on the Centre on Wednesday, saying that with the theft of one's vote also is a theft of one's rights and the theft of one's identity. Sharing a fictional video on X, the Congress leader showed how, two people (purportedly from the Bharatiya Janata Party) collude with the Election Commission officers to cast a vote in another's name. In the video, two people, purportedly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are seen just coming back from the booth after casting a fake vote, with one of them saying "this is such a good arrangement, victory is assured now." However, when the real voter comes with his voter ID card, showing him to be the real 50-year-old 'Garib Das' looking to cast his vote, he is told to go back as his vote has already been cast. Similarly, when the real voter's wife asks about her vote, she is told that her vote has been cast by the other person. Ultimately, the people are seen going back without exercising their universal adult franchise. Ultimately, the two people are also seen colluding with the Booth Level Officer (BLO), with the video taking a jibe at the Election Commission of India too, terming it as the 'Election chori aayog.' Earlier on August 12, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge chaired the AICC general secretaries, state in-charges and heads of frontal organisations meeting to discuss a nationwide campaign against alleged voter list manipulation and election fraud. The meeting was attended by LS LoP Rahul Gandhi too. Other that the LoP, party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sachin Pilot, KC Venugopal, Kumari Selja and others attended the meeting. Earlier on Tuesday, workers of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) marched from the organisation's headquarters in Delhi to Jantar Mantar, protesting against the Election Commission over alleged voter list manipulation. The protest was in response to repeated allegations by Rahul Gandhi accusing the Commission of "vote chori" (vote theft). Youth Congress activists also held a 'Halla Bol March' in the national capital, during which several protestors were detained by Delhi Police. The LS LoP has also accused the ECI of neglecting its duty, asserting that the Congress party is committed to protecting the Constitution and will continue to do. He stated that ECI has failed to enforce the principle of "One Man, One Vote," which he described as the foundation of the Constitution. "We are protecting the Constitution. One Man One Vote is the foundation of the Constitution. It is the duty of the Election Commission to enforce One Man, One Vote, but they have not done their duty. We are protecting the Constitution, and we will keep doing it..." On Monday, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, and other INDIA bloc MPs were detained by the Delhi Police while marching from Parliament to the Election Commission office in protest against alleged irregularities in Bihar. (ANI)
A 'no trespassing' sign on a fence outside the Northwest ICE Processing Center. (Photo by Grace Deng/Washington State Standard)

A federal appeals court on Wednesday refused to give the operator of the immigrant detention center in Tacoma another chance to make its case for paying detainees as little as $1 per day.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied the request from The GEO Group, the for-profit company that runs the facility, to reconsider its decision from earlier this year, siding with lower courts that found GEO violated state minimum wage law.

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The decision affirms that the Florida-based GEO Group will need to pay more than $23 million that a jury and federal judge previously awarded. The next step in the companys fight could be the U.S. Supreme Court. The case, brought by detainees and the state of Washington, has been ongoing since 2017.

GEO Group has run the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma since 2005. Its current contract with the federal government, signed in 2015, awarded the company at least $700 million to operate the facility over the following decade. The facility holds people detained by federal immigration enforcement on civil violations as they await potential deportation or release back into the United States.

The company used to run a voluntary work program for detainees. For years, hundreds at the Tacoma detention center were paid $1 per day, the minimum federal pay required in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities. When necessary to attract workers, pay would go up to $5.

The program allowed GEO to avoid hiring 85 full-time employees, according to court filings. The detainees would cook and serve food, wash dishes, do laundry and clean the facility.

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GEOs federal contract requires it to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and standards, including labor laws and codes. This includes state minimum wage laws, courts have ruled.

The company had argued federal contractors couldnt be forced to pay Washingtons minimum wage under the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution, which holds that federal law takes precedence over state law.

GEO contended Washington cant regulate the detention center differently than similar state facilities, since the states minimum wage law exempts prisons and jails.

A U.S. District Court jury in 2021 found GEO Group violated Washingtons minimum wage statute, and awarded nearly $17.3 million in back wages. A federal judge ordered the company to pay the state an additional $5.9 million in penalties. The work program has been suspended since then.

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Between 2010 and 2018, GEO made around $20 million per year running the 1,575-bed detention center.

Washingtons state Supreme Court also sided with the detainees and the state, finding in 2023 that the detained workers should be considered employees.

On this go-around, GEO asked the original three-judge 9th Circuit panel either to rehear the case or send it to the full appeals court in what is known as a rehearing en banc. The Trump administrations Department of Justice also urged the court to reconsider. The court denied the requests Wednesday.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Dissenting from the decision, Judge Patrick Bumatay, an appointee of President Donald Trump, wrote that the effect of this decision will be widespread.

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Our court provides a roadmap for States seeking to undermine federal policies with which they disagree, Bumatay wrote. Our courts message is clear: So long as States focus their regulation on federal government contractors  rather than on the federal government itself  the States may frustrate the performance of any federal government activities they wish.

Chief Judge Mary Murguia, who President Barack Obama appointed, disagreed. She wrote that Bumatay equating the federal government and its contractors is contrary to long-settled black letter law.

Adoption of his position would allow any government contractor to refuse to pay state-mandated minimum wage to its employees, she continued. For example, any defense contractor could refuse to pay minimum wage. No one in this case, not even GEO, has suggested that this is the law.

Washingtons attorney generals office applauded the courts decision.

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The Ninth Circuit majority got it right the first time, and were pleased the full court denied en banc review, spokesperson Mike Faulk said in an email. The GEO Group is a hugely profitable company that chooses to do business in Washington, where our wage laws apply to them the same as any other private business.

The facility, the only private, for-profit detention center in Washington, has a history of allegations of human rights violations. It has come under renewed scrutiny as more detainees have been sent there with Trumps return to office.

The Legislature has long had the detention center in its sights. Lawmakers tried to get it shut down in 2021 through a state law that was later deemed unenforceable.

Washington has also been ensconced in years of legal back-and-forth with GEO over state laws calling for greater oversight of the facility. Another court case tackling that issue is currently awaiting a ruling from the 9th Circuit.

GEO didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

This story has been updated to include comment from the Washington attorney generals office.
At least 87 people have died in Argentina after being administered bacteria-infected fentanyl in hospitals, a judge investigating the deaths said Wednesday.

Since May, a court has been trying to determine how many deaths are linked to batches of the drug contaminated with the bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Ralstonia pickettii.

The suspected toll has soared since then, with family members holding protests outside hospitals demanding justice.

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The probe arose from a complaint filed by Argentina's drug regulatory agency, Anmat, which had received a report from a hospital that discovered the tainted drug in its supply, an Anmat employee told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The deaths have occurred in hospitals in the city and province of Buenos Aires, and in three other provinces, the judge leading the investigation, Ernesto Kreplak, told The Nation daily newspaper in an article published Wednesday.

At least 24 people have been questioned and had their assets frozen by the court.

They include Ariel Furfaro Garcia, owner of HLB Pharma and Ramallo Laboratories, which allegedly produced and sold the contaminated drug, The Nation reported.

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He denied the claims and blamed a former colleague for having planted the story in the media.

"This was fabricated by the media. All the clinical histories show that the patients had other, more dangerous bacteria, people with serious problems," Furfaro Garcia told the daily newspaper Clarin.

According to The Nation, at least five contaminated batches were distributed to eight hospitals and health centers in the country, although the investigation is looking at clinical histories from 200 hospitals.

Two weeks ago, relatives of victims demonstrated outside the Italian Hospital in La Plata, 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Buenos Aires, where the first deaths were reported, demanding "justice for the fentanyl victims."

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"The fentanyl caused his death in a matter of days," Alejandro Ayala, whose brother Leonel died at the age of 32, told AFP.

Experts have warned that the death toll could rise as new medical records are reviewed and cases are confirmed in hospitals that to date had not reported any fentanyl-linked deaths.

Argentina's Congress on Wednesday submitted 26 questions related to the case to the Executive branch of the government, but no deadline has been set for their response.

mry/lm/ksb/sla
AUSTIN (KXAN)  After state laws restricted abortion access in Texas, the City of Austin established a fund for nonprofits helping women access out-of-state abortions in August 2024. The nonprofits  Janes Due Process and Fund Texas Choice  helped more than 1,000 Texan women secure abortions over the past year.

Then, state leadership took notice.

The Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 33, which prohibits local governments from using taxpayer dollars on abortion-related expenses, just months after Austins fund was established. The bill, which supporters say help standardize the states policies to reflect Texans pro-life beliefs, effectively abolishes Austins fund.

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Texas has made it clear through our elected officials that were a pro-life state and taxpayer funding for abortion travel or logistics violates both the law and the will of the people, said Amy ODonnell, a spokesperson for pro-life nonprofit Texas Alliance for Life.

But Austin Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes, who led the charge to create the fund, said the state legislature is taking away a safety net by enacting SB33.

It really is forcing women into dangerous practices, and its endangering women in our lives, Fuentes said.

Now, the nonprofits are left with fewer resources to help ensure women in Texas can access reproductive health care. JDP director Lucie Arvallo said that Austin women will be forced to navigate the complex health care system with less support  and less money.

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It really creates this vicious cycle of pushing that care further out of reach for young people and then increasing that cost, she said.

Focused on providing resources

Austin first established its reproductive justice fund in 2019, using municipal funding to fund practical support for abortion access, such as travel and lodging. It was the second city in the nation to establish such a fund, according to the National Institute for Reproductive Health. But first iteration of the fund was shuttered after the 2022 Supreme Court Dobbs decision triggered Texas abortion ban.

Fuentes said she decided to re-establish the $400,000 fund in 2024 after recognizing that Austinites now have to travel out of state for abortion care. The money did not fund the abortion procedure itself, instead going towards practical support for women seeking reproductive health care.

READ: City of Austin moving forward with abortion travel fund

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Our reproductive logistical fund was focused on providing resources, travel, logistics, counseling, mental health services  really, those wraparound supports that women need when having to confront the tough decision of going out of state to receive basic access to healthcare, Fuentes said.

For Arvallo, the funding was a game changer.

It trickles down to our community, she said. It means were able to serve more Travis County residents than we otherwise would be able to, because the demand and cost is increasing exponentially.

Arvallo estimates that it costs $1,500 for each woman to travel out of state and receive abortion health care. Anna Rupani, director of Fund Texas Choice, wrote that the organization similarly spends $1,300 on each case.

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This reproductive justice fund was so crucial as a service  especially for young people in Austin and Travis County  because youre helping to fill that almost insurmountable gap for young people that are having to navigate thousands of miles of travel at hundreds of dollars for a procedure, Arvallo said.

Challenges at the Capitol

Immediately after the fund was established, it faced pushback.

Former Austin City Council member Don Zimmerman sued Austin just days after the council approved the funding allocation, claiming that it violates the Texas Constitution. Attorney General Ken Paxton announced his own suit a month later.

READ: Texas AG sues Austin over funds for out-of-state abortion care

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No city in Texas has the authority to spend taxpayer money in this manner, Paxton said in a statement. In this case, the City of Austin is illegally seeking to use public funding to support travel expenses for out-of-state abortions.

ODonnell said Austins fund was an effort to undermine our states pro-life laws. She pointed to Senate Bill 22, which the state legislature passed in 2019 to prohibit municipal funding for abortion providers.

Cities cant ignore state laws just because they dont like it, she said. The majority of the will of the voters in Texas had voted pro-life legislators into place who bring pro-life laws forward that reflect the will of the people.

ODonnell said Texas Alliance for Life worked with State Sen. Donna Campbell to develop SB 33 over the 2024 session, closing the loophole left by SB 22. Campbell declined an interview request for this article.

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Now, cities are officially prohibited from using taxpayer dollars to support women seeking abortions in any capacity  rather than simply prohibiting funding for abortion providers.

Taxpayer funding for abortion travel doesnt reflect the will of the people, ODonnell said. It just doesnt align with the values of our state.

Polling from the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas at Austin shows that while a growing number of Texans believe abortion regulations should be less strict in the state, this percentage remains one to seven points below 50 percent.

Fuentes believes the bill contradicts Austins values, saying the legislation constitutes state overreach.

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Its another example of how the state legislature is more focused on taking away access  taking away services  than providing care for Texans all over our state, she said.

Having to wind down services

SB 33 is set to take effect on Sept. 1, leaving the City of Austin rushing to comply with the new legislation.

We, of course, are meeting with city leaders to understand what can we do thats still legally compliant with the new law, Fuentes said. Until then, were having those conversations on what can be done with the existing funds that have been allocated but not distributed just yet.

While Rupani declined to comment on the future of FTCs relationship with the city, Arvallo said JDP is in the process of amending our contract to comply with SB 33. Both organizations will continue to help women secure abortions, but with a more limited scope after municipal funding is revoked.

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We are having to wind down services starting July 31, she said. Any funds remaining in the $100,000 contract are going to have to be diverted into other compliance services.

The unfortunate reality is our funding doesnt match the pace of the need, and so were going to have to turn away more people without this funding, Arvallo added.

ODonnell emphasized that there are still many resources for Texas women who choose to give birth, pointing to the extensive support provided by Medicaid.

Medicaid pays for over half of the births in Texas, she said. Thats a lot of assistance for families in Texas to choose life, and so thats one way that families in Texas can receive support.

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But with the incoming cuts to Medicaid from the Big Beautiful Bill  which jeopardizes coverage for nearly 300,000 Texans, according to estimates from the Congressional Budget Office  women may soon find themselves with even fewer options. The bill, signed into law by President Trump in early July, aims to reduce federal spending by cutting funding for Medicaid.

Despite the narrowing of health care options, Arvallo said both JDP and FTC will continue to fight for Texans access to reproductive health care.

Even if Janes Due Process and Fund Texas Choice dont have the funds available to support you, we will find an abortion fund that can, she said. Because regardless of who is in power, at the state government, at the federal government, on the bench at SCOTUS, we are going to be here to support every individual we can.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News

The US governments Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction released a report Wednesday that alleges members of the Taliban are colluding with senior UN officials to redirect international aid for their own ends.

The inspector generals office, created in 2008 to independently monitor US involvement in the rebuilding of Afghanistan after its 2001 invasion, recently issued its final report to Congress ahead of its scheduled closure next year.

But its latest report, shared first with Semafor, takes a more pointed look at the Talibans use of US and international aid dollars that were intended to help the country govern itself.

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We knew that US aid dollars were specifically, directly and indirectly, benefiting the Taliban, a senior State Department official with knowledge of Afghanistan said in an interview. What was surprising to me is how integrated many of the NGOs, in particular, the United Nations, was into some of this diversion and corruption.

The report concludes that the Talibans laws make it difficult for non-governmental organizations to operate effectively and at times enable diversion of aid. Minority populations in Afghanistan have been given spoiled or rotten food as a result, according to the report, and the Taliban have interfered in NGO hiring to choose its favored candidates, according to multiple sources it cites.

President Donald Trump set the stage for US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2020, when he presided over the signing of an agreement with Taliban representatives. But after Joe Biden succeeded him, the US embarked on a 2021 pullout that proved chaotic and was marked by the death of 13 troops from a terrorist attack.

Since taking office for his second term, Trump has terminated nearly all US aid to Afghanistan as part of his shuttering of the US Agency for International Development and his reorganization of the State Department.

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The report issued Wednesday identifies a culture of denial within the international aid community about the Talibans misuse of assistance dollars, in the words of acting special inspector general Gene Aloise.

According to one NGO worker who spoke with the inspector generals office known as SIGAR, at least 20 percent of the employees of international NGOs were affiliated with the Taliban.

The SIGAR report added: In some cases, the Taliban require an NGO to put a person on their payroll to collect a salary without ever showing up to work.

The report also interviewed individuals who alleged that the Taliban collude with UN officials to extort bribes from UN contractors and then split the profit.

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Most of the allegations SIGAR heard involved employees of the World Food Programme, which has been the largest single recipient of both US and overall aid to Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover, the report adds.

The State Department official who spoke with Semafor described one source for the report  an NGO official responsible for distributing food to beneficiaries through the UNs World Food Programme  who said that the head of the food program was aware of what was described as routine illicit behavior by the Taliban.

According to the report, the US provided nearly $4 billion in aid for the Afghan people between August 2021 and this year, when Trump wound down the effort.

The report suggests that around 30 to 40 percent of total donor funds sent to Afghanistan end up reaching their intended audience.

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The UN did not immediately return a request for comment on the allegations in the report.

Aloise first joined the inspector generals office in 2012 after a decades-long career with the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office.

Know More

Past reports by SIGAR have detailed the ways in which US aid has ended up helping the Taliban, but the Wednesday report more specifically dives into allegations of aid diversion.

The turning point for the Trump administration when it came to ordering the effective end of US aid to Afghanistan, the State Department official told Semafor, was its growing awareness that the Taliban had begun welcoming US assistance.

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Theyre able to divert US aid dollars, both in the form of currency going through the UN cash shipments, as well as in the form of services and goods for their own benefit, the State Department official said. And so, as youre seeing the rhetoric shifting to the Taliban saying we need more assistance, the global world order has abandoned us, et cetera  the question is, why is there this shift?

SIGARs recommendations in the report include requiring any US agency administering aid to have full access to UN performance and financial reporting, as well as possibly changing the flow of future aid to ensure the State Department can effectively limit how many organizations have access to it.

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ISLAMABAD (AP)  The Taliban on Wednesday registered 1,800 unemployed Afghans expelled from neighboring countries for the chance to work in Qatar in the latest round of a labor agreement with the Gulf nation, a Labor Ministry spokesman said.

The program is aimed at easing unemployment in Afghanistan, and the Taliban has said talks are also underway to send labor to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Turkey, and Russia.

Last month, 3,100 Afghans were registered for jobs in Qatar, including in the food and hospitality industries. Wednesday's one-day registration period was open only to Afghans expelled from Iran and Pakistan, and took place in four major cities.

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At least two million Afghans have left Iran and Pakistan this year after both governments launched separate campaigns to expel foreigners they said were living there illegally. They deny targeting Afghans, but most of those forcibly returned are Afghan.

People with refugee certificates were able to visit registration centers in Kabul, Kandahar, Herat, and Nangarhar for the chance to work in Qatar, Labor Ministry spokesman Samiullah Ibrahimi said.

These work visas cover 22 different job categories, and the 1,800 visas available are for these jobless Afghan returnees, he said.

Dozens of men waited in long lines outside a registration center in Kabul.

Poyan Ahmadi, who left Iran, said he wanted the Taliban government to talk to other countries. Here in Afghanistan, there is no work, and there is a shortage of job opportunities.
CLAY COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT)  A Talladega woman died after a Clay County crash Tuesday morning that also left a child injured, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Amanda Williams, 42, was critically injured around 7:37 a.m. when the Honda CR-V she was operating departed the roadway and hit a tree. The crash happened on Alabama 9 about two miles south of Ashland.

Sylacauga man killed in Coosa County crash

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Williams, who reportedly was not wearing a seat belt, was taken to Clay County Hospital. Thats where Williams was pronounced dead. A 10-year-old passenger in the Honda was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Troopers with the ALEA Highway Patrol Division investigated the crash.

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CLEVELAND (WJW)  The FOX 8 I-Team has found members of the Cleveland Community Police Commission traveling to conference after conference on your dime. So, we investigated.

The City of Cleveland formed the group nearly three years ago, but theres been little to show for it.

WATCH: Jellyfish populating in Lake Erie waters off coast of Put-in-Bay

The Community Police Commission just sent eight people to a conference in Florida. Last October, the group registered 12 people for a conference in Arizona. Next, the group plans to send people to another conference this fall.

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In 2022, the Mayor introduced the Cleveland Community Police Commission, a group set up to help develop policies and oversee police discipline. Yet, the group still has never heard a case involving an officer.

Instead, it has become known, mostly, for chaos at meetings. Weve shown you arguments at meetings, police called to meetings and even a protest on the steps of city hall as the initial members were introduced.

We asked Co-Chair Sharena Zayed, Why are you sending group after group to conference after conference when you still have not heard a case yet?

She answered, To prepare ourselves, to educate ourselves.

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This week, the group sent people to a conference for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. Last October, the group sent people to a conference for the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE).

Horrifying discovery in toilet lands woman in ER

We also checked on the cost of the travel. The total for going to that conference last October was just over $2,500 a person. The cost to send people to the current conference topped $3,000 a person.

The Commission said its worth it.

Sharena Zayed said, We are civilians. We are not police officers, and we all have daytime jobs. Sometimes, when youre building something from the ground up, it takes time. We want this to be done right. We dont want any rush.

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Former Commission member Teri Wang said, I went to two NACOLE conferences. They had excellent panels, excellent speakers.

Wang believes conferences are helpful and even inspiring. But she said at the last conference, she didnt see Cleveland Commission members at most of the sessions she attended.

She told us, Unfortunately, not all of the commissioners were engaged. It was a shame because there were great sessions about the arbitration system, about the prosecutors system. All the things the commission members would need to perform their actual jobs. I suspect that many of them used it as a vacation.

Morgan Wallen is coming to Cleveland this weekend: How to prepare

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She added, In comparison to what the commissioners were doing on the public dollar, the taxpayer dollar, it was a little bit demoralizing to see all that go to waste. I wanted to learn things that could directly apply to my job as a commissioner.

To be clear, this group is different from a federal group overseeing the Cleveland Police. That federal group earns $750 an hour.

The commission co-chair points out that many of the people travelling now are new members. The group is moving closer to hearing cases, promising the travel will pay off.

Zayed also said, So, this is gonna take time. Were not gonna rush this because of the nature of the severity of the work.

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Its not clear when the group will start hearing cases involving specific officers, although were told the commission is finalizing the process.

In the meantime, two staff members went on this latest trip with the commission members, including one of them there to capture pictures and video of commission members for social media postings.

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Nurses from the Teamsters Union Local 2024 are pursuing an unfair labor practice charge, alleging Corewell Health East has refused to bargain over an agreement to ensure bargaining committee members would not have to use their paid time off for collective bargaining dates.

For the past six months, Corewell has been forcing Teamsters nurses to exhaust their accrued paid time off before allowing them to use unpaid leave for negotiation dates, Mike Smith, lead negotiator and trustee of Local 2024, said in a statement. This is another attempt to target and attack unionized workers who want to fight for fair treatment. We will not back down until we get these nurses what they deserve.

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According to the union, July negotiations brought progress, with the committee securing a memorandum of agreement to provide teamsters nurses with retroactive economic benefits including a March 2025 general wage increase, the base pay market review and tier adjustments for advanced practice providers, a $250 bonus, shift differential and shift premium increases and matching contributions to workers 403(b) retirement plan.

However, the union says their fight is far from over. The next collective bargaining dates are scheduled for Sept. 17 and 18.

In a statement, Royal Oak-based Corewell Health, which was formerly known as Beaumont Health, said they are continuing to bargain in good faith and remain focused on reaching an agreement.

We declined the unions proposal to treat their bargaining committee members differently than our other team members. Our policies require team members to use paid time-off when they choose to be away from work, and we dont intend to deviate from our policy, the statement reads. We remain committed to working with their committee members to accommodate their schedules whenever possible, including allowing them the opportunity to switch their schedule when possible consistent with staffing and patient care needs, as many of the committee members have done.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Reports said a teenage girl on Tuesday was booked into the Mahoning County Juvenile Justice Center on charges she assaulted a city police officer.

Read next: 3 teens arrested after reported robbery in Boardman

The teen, who was reported as a runaway, was spotted about 2:30 p.m. at a 601 E. Midlothian Blvd. McDonalds. She resisted efforts to be taken into custody and returned to a facility, reports said.

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As she was being returned to the facility, reports said she was banging on a divider in a cruiser with a splint she had on her injured arm and was also kicking the divider, reports said.

Police then had to try and take her out of the back seat, and as they did, she struck an officer in the face, breaking her glasses, and kicked another officer in the shin, reports said.

The girl was booked into the JJC on two counts of assault on a police officer, reports said.

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NEED TO KNOW

Gerika Mudra, an 18-year-old high schoolher, is fighting back after she says a Buffalo Wild Wings employee harassed her while she was in the women's bathroom

On Aug. 12, Gender Justice said it filed a charge of discrimination with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights on the teen's behalf

We know Gerika was targeted because of how she looks, the girl's stepmom said

A high school student is fighting back after a Buffalo Wild Wings employee allegedly followed her into the bathroom and wouldn't stop harassing her until the teen ended up unzipping her hoodie to "prove" she's a girl.

On Tuesday, Aug. 12, Gender Justice filed a charge of discrimination with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) on behalf of 18-year-old high schooler Gerika Mudra, according to a press release from the nonprofit.

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Mudra, who is a biracial lesbian, according to NBC News, was eating at a Buffalo Wild Wings in Owatonna when she got up to use the bathroom.

In a video released by Gender Justice, the teen said the server followed her into the bathroom and "came in yelling, 'This is a women's restroom, the man needs to get out.' "

Mudra, who said this wasn't "the first time something like this happened" to her, claims that she told the server "I am a lady," but that the server responded, "You have to get out now."

"I didn't know what to do," the teen said, alleging that she eventually unzipped her sweatshirt to show that she had breasts.

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Afterwards, the teen, who had a shirt underneath her hoodie, claimed the server "just walked out, didn't even apologize or anything."

Buffalo Wild Wings did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Now, Mudra says she won't return to the Buffalo Wild Wings location and that she no longer feels comfortable using public bathrooms in general.

We know Gerika was targeted because of how she looks, said Shauna Otterness, Mudras stepmom.

She didnt do anything wrong. She just didnt fit what that server thought a girl should look like, Otterness continued. I was shocked and heartbroken by how many people shared similar stories after I posted about it online. This shouldnt be normal. We can do better, and we have to.

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The legacy advocacy group went on to note that Mudra's experience "reflects a broader climate of fear and suspicion aimed at anyone who doesnt conform to narrow expectations of what girls and women 'should' look like."

"While she is not transgender, the scrutiny and harassment she faced is unfortunately all too familiar to trans and gender expansive people, including masculine presenting queer women," they added.

What happened to Gerika Mudra was not just wrong, it was unlawful, added Sara Jane Baldwin, senior staff attorney at Gender Justice. Minnesota law protects people from exactly this kind of discrimination in public spaces. No one should be harassed, humiliated, or forced to prove themselves just to use the bathroom."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

In filing a charge of discrimination with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, Mudra and her family hope to raise awareness about the agency and its role in protecting residents.

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The Minnesota Human Rights Act is clear: businesses have a legal duty to protect their customers from harassment and discrimination, said Baldwin. That means providing staff with training, creating clear policies, and creating a culture that ensures every person is treated with respect and dignity. What happened to Gerika is exactly the kind of harm our laws are meant to prevent, and its time businesses take those responsibilities seriously.

Mudra said she also wants others who have experienced harassment to know they arent alone.

Its okay [for them] to stick up for themselves, and be okay with who they are, she said.

Read the original article on People
Congress in charge of Odisha, Ajay Kumar Lallu, speaking on the four semiconductor projects approved in Odisha, Punjab & Andhra Pradesh by the government, pulled up data on the safety concerns of women and claimed that industrial projects will be unsuccessful, slamming the Bharatiya Janata Party. "Odisha is not safe. Within one month, four women have died. In a state where common people and women are not safe, and where there is lawlessness, if you try to invite an industry or industrialist, it won't be successful. BJP knows only how to do events; they have nothing to do on the ground," said Ajay Kumar Lallu. The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the four new semiconductor projects worth Rs 4,594 crore in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday. This project, under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), was initiated to push India's chip-making ambitions. "Four new semiconductor projects have been approved. You know that six projects are already approved, and four new ones have been added to it today (Tuesday). These are in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab, at an investment of Rs 4,594 Crore," Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said at a press conference on Tuesday. Emphasising the impact of Rahul Gandhi's vote threat expose, Ajay Lallu, speaking to ANI, said, "With the slogan of 'vote chor gaddi chhodd', a movement has been initiated across the country. Rahul Gandhi has exposed the EC. Vote theft is being discussed across the country." "I can confidently say that the candidates in the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections are posting about fake votes on social media. Until there is action against EC and our Govt removes them from power, our fight will continue," he said. Earlier, on Monday, the Delhi Police detained Congress MPs, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and a host of other INDIA bloc leaders. The police foiled their march to the Election Commission to protest over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar and allegations of "vote chori" (vote theft) in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (ANI)
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  Deputies in Georgetown County have obtained arrest warrants for a 19-year-old they say is a threat to the community.

Savion Grimmage is accused in the shooting death of Ricky Dixon, 23, that happened on Saturday, Aug. 9 in the Oatland community, according to the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office.

Grimmage is charged for murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, although he is not in custody.

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He should be considered armed and dangerous and poses a serious threat to the community. Do not approach him, a spokesperson for the sheriffs office said.

Anyone with information about Grimmages whereabouts is urged to contact the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office at 843-546-5102.

Grimmage via GCSO

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
After a 15-year-old boy with disabilities was detained outside a local high school by federal agents this week in a case of mistaken identity, education leaders fear many families will keep their children away out of fear of immigration raids.

That incident unfolded around 9:30 a.m. on Monday, just days before more than half a million LAUSD students return to classrooms. According to Los Angeles Unified School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, the student  who attends San Fernando High School  had gone to Arleta High with his grandmother to accompany a relative registering for classes.

The frightened boy was removed from the car and placed in handcuffs, though after school staff and the Los Angeles Police Department intervened, he was released.

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The release will not release him from what he experienced, Carvalho said during a news conference. The trauma will linger. It will not cease. It is unacceptable, not only in our community, but anywhere in America.

A 15-year-old boy with disabilities was pulled from a car and handcuffed by federal agents outside Arleta High on Aug. 11, 2025. (SFV Sun/El Sol) A 15-year-old boy with disabilities was pulled from a car and handcuffed by federal agents outside Arleta High on Aug. 11, 2025. (SFV Sun/El Sol) A 15-year-old boy with disabilities was pulled from a car and handcuffed by federal agents outside Arleta High on Aug. 11, 2025. (SFV Sun/El Sol) A 15-year-old boy with disabilities was pulled from a car and handcuffed by federal agents outside Arleta High on Aug. 11, 2025. (SFV Sun/El Sol)

In a statement released Tuesday, officials with the Department of Homeland Security said that they were in the area to detain a Salvadoran national with ties to the violent MS-13 gang and that allegations that border patrol targeted Arleta High School are false.

Education leaders from several Southern California school districts convened this afternoon to reassure outraged parents that their children are safe in school.

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Big Bear shop owner accused of psychedelic mushroom operation out of store

No child can learn if theyre living in fear, Estefany Castaneda, board president of Centinela Valley Union High School District, said. Our schools must be safe havens.

Doris Martines, a parent of a child in an LAUSD school, told KTLA that she considered what happened to the 15-year-old boy to be a shameful act by federal officials.

Another parent, identified only as Yvonne, echoed the sentiment and said the alleged mistaken identity was upsetting.

I was very upset because our kids shouldnt have to be going through this and being scared of coming to school, she explained.

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District officials attending Tuesdays event said that they intend to fight to keep federal agents away from Southern California school campuses and students, while LAUSD officials stated that when classes begin Thursday, school police, staff and volunteers will create a safe zone around many campuses.

During Tuesdays event, at least one state lawmaker, Al Muratsuchi, also vowed to protect students.

The California Safe Havens School Act [is] to keep ICE out of our schools, he said. All students, regardless of immigration status, have a right to a public education.

For the coming fall semester, LAUSD has made it clear that they are offering online classes for any students who are afraid to return to campus.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A Minnesota teenager filed a charge of discrimination Tuesday against a Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant, accusing a server of following her into the womens restroom and demanding she prove she was a girl.

Gerika Mudra, an 18-year-old high school student, was dining with a friend at the chain restaurants Owatonna, Minn., location in late April when a female server followed her into the bathroom and accused her of being a boy, according to Gender Justice, the Minnesota-based nonprofit that filed the discrimination charge on Mudras behalf.

This is a womens restroom. The man needs to get out of here, the server said while banging on the stall door, according to Gender Justice. The server blocked Mudra from exiting the restroom until she unzipped her hoodie to show that she had breasts.

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Buffalo Wild Wings did not respond to two emails seeking comment on the incident and the charge of discrimination, which Gender Justice filed with the states Department of Human Rights.

The charge alleges the restaurant violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act, one of the nations strongest state civil rights laws that prohibits discrimination based on characteristics including sexual orientation and gender identity.

What happened to Gerika Mudra was not just wrong, it was unlawful, said Sara Jane Baldwin, senior staff attorney at Gender Justice, in a statement on Tuesday. Minnesota law protects people from exactly this kind of discrimination in public spaces. No one should be harassed, humiliated, or forced to prove themselves just to use the bathroom.

In a video released by Gender Justice, Mudra, who is biracial and not transgender, said this was not the first time she has been questioned about her gender in a public restroom.

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This wasnt the first time this has happened, but this is, like, the worst time, she said. After that, I just dont like going in public bathrooms. Like, I just hold it in. I just keep thinking, Im going to keep getting harassed like this.

Mudras stepmother, Shauna Otterness, said what happened to Mudra was cruel and humiliating and left her feeling enraged.

We know Gerika was targeted because of how she looks. She didnt do anything wrong. She just didnt fit what that server thought a girl should look like, she said in a statement released by Gender Justice. I was shocked and heartbroken by how many people shared similar stories after I posted about it online. This shouldnt be normal. We can do better, and we have to.

Nineteen states have laws prohibiting transgender people from using facilities that match their gender identity in K-12 schools, and most also bar trans people from entering restrooms consistent with their gender identity in government-owned buildings, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit that tracks LGBTQ laws. A measure to bar trans students from bathrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity failed to advance in the Minnesota Legislature in 2017.

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This kind of gender policing is, unfortunately, nothing new. And yet, in our current climate we have to ask: What if Gerika had been a trans person? said Megan Peterson, executive director at Gender Justice. Would this story have ended differently? Thats the terrifying reality too many trans people live with every day.

Gerikas story sits at the intersection of anti-LGBTQ+ panic, racism, and rigid gender norms and stereotypes, Peterson said. A growing culture of suspicion and control is targeting trans, gender-nonconforming, and Black girls and women  anyone who doesnt match narrow ideas of how women should look or behave. When people are harassed just for existing, none of us are truly safe.

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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A 19-year-old was sentenced on Wednesday morning after he shot and killed a man in the summer of 2023 in the LaSalle neighborhood, the Erie County District Attorneys Office said.

19-year-old found guilty of murder for 2023 shooting

Jakai Lofton, of Buffalo, intentionally shot 21-year-old Quban Romell Najee Embry multiple times around 5:20 p.m. on Aug. 12. Embry was shot on the front porch of a residence on the 200 block of Shirley Avenue. He died at the scene.

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Lofton was using an illegal gun and acting in concert with another teenager at the time. Anthony Borden, 19 and of Buffalo, pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and was sentenced Wednesday afternoon to eight years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision..

Lofton was sentenced to an indeterminate sentence of 25 years to life in prison for second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

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.

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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP)  A teen was taken to the hospital in life-threatening condition after a shooting in Winston-Salem on Tuesday night, according to a Winston-Salem Police Department news release.

Around 6 p.m., Winston-Salem officers responded to the 5000 block of Farmoor Circle when they were told about a shooting.

Officers arrived on the scene and found an 18-year-old who had been shot.

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He was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Two teens who were accused in the murder of two people in 2023 were found not guilty by a Jackson County judge after testimony during their trial revealed the dead men killed each other.

Heres the timeline as laid out by the Jackson County District Attorneys Office:

In the early hours of December 3, 2023, there was a party at the Charles Point apartment complex in south Medford. During the party, multiple masked men with guns went into the apartment. The DAs office said the juveniles, in masks, arrived at the party with another masked man, Christian Torres, as part of the group that intended to assault someone at the party.

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Torres, armed with a gun, confronted Dontrell Manninen in the kitchen of the apartment. Manninen pulled out his own gun. A number of shots were fired, including one that hit the refrigerator in the kitchen.

Unsettling: Mystery of body parts found in Tualatin River deepens

Investigators later determined Torres, 26, and Manninen, 33, shot and killed each other.

As the investigation rolled along, one of the youths admitted firing the shots that hit the refrigerator but claimed he did so in an attempt to break up the fight between Mr. Manninen and Mr. Torres  not to hurt or kill anyone.

The other youth was not armed.

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Eight days after the shootings, both teens were arrested and charged with 2nd-degree murder and burglary. They stayed locked up in the Jackson County Juvenile Facility until their trial began August 4.

Judge Charles Kochlacs dismissed the charges against the unarmed teen 3 days into the trial because his involvement in the crime was limited.

Longview murder suspect arrested in Los Angeles

Then after closing arguments on Monday, Judge Kochlacs acquitted the other teen  the one who shot the refrigerator  of all charges because of information that showed the  juveniles and Mr. Torres may have been allowed to enter by a resident of the apartment prior to the shooting, which gave him reasonable doubt.

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Investigators earlier determined Torres was likely criminally culpable for the events that night.

The teens have since been released from custody.

In a statement, the Jackson County DAs Office said, We very much regret that we were not able to secure a better result for (the Manninen family) in this case.

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A new Arkansas law requiring public classrooms to display the Ten Commandments cannot be enforced in a handful of the states largest school districts after a federal court blocked the law.

As multiple districts in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley return for the new school year, questions have been raised about whether schools will display the Ten Commandments.

Since a preliminary injunction was issued on Act 573 on Aug. 4 by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy Brooks, one day before the law was set to take effect, KNWA/FOX24 asked multiple districts in the area if they plan to display the Ten Commandments.

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Last week, Springdale Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jared Cleveland said that the district would follow the rules regardless of the decision.

Springdale superintendent talks cell phone law, federal funds and AI

Well follow the law whenever thats ruled upon. I know that there are certain groups out there that are willing to provide the Ten Commandments to us, Cleveland said.

Spokespeople from Fayetteville and Springdale school districts confirmed that the Ten Commandments are not currently displayed in their schools.

A spokesperson for Fort Smith Public Schools gave KNWA/FOX24 the following statement:

Fort Smith Public Schools will comply with Act 573, which requires displaying a copy of the Ten Commandments only if the posters are donated or purchased with private funds. At this time, we have not received any such donations. Fort Smith Public Schools

KNWA/FOX24 also reached out to Rogers, Bentonville and Van Buren school districts for comment, but did not hear back.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Officials in a small Tennessee town voted Tuesday to reopen a former prison to serve as an immigration detention facility as cities across the country ramp up efforts to advance President Trumps sweeping immigration agenda.

Leaders in Mason, Tenn., a town near Memphis, approved the revitalization of the West Tennessee Detention Facility as a site to detain immigrants in the country illegally under the management of CoreCivic Inc., according to The Associated Press.

Mason Mayor Eddie Noeman and Vice Mayor Reynaldo Givhan, in addition to five members of the Board of Aldermen, voted in favor of the effort, despite mistreatment reported in the past.

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The states corrections agency previously fined CoreCivic $44.7 million over the last three years for violations that include understaffing, in addition to audits unveiling improper documentation of inmate deaths and use of force by correctional officers, according to AP.

However, the company and local leaders said the facilitys reopening in Mason could spur job development and economic growth.

Its nothing personal against any immigrant, Noeman, the towns first Egyptian mayor, told the audience. To give jobs to the people is what Im looking for.

CoreCivic said restoring operations will create 240 new jobs and generate about $325,000 in annual property tax revenue.

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Still, some local leaders remain skeptical of advancing the reopening of West Tennessee Detention Facility.

Board member Virginia Rivers told AP that contract approval could make Mason complicit in the abusive treatment of immigrants.

We as officials of the town of Mason that were elected by the citizens should consider the consequences and the hurt that this would cause our local community, our neighbors, Tennessee schools and many families, she told AP.

In recent months, CoreCivic has pursued legal recourse to gain contracts with the federal government to run immigration detention centers in New Jersey and Kansas.

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TENNESSEE (WKRN)  In 2015, Obergefell v. Hodges answered the question: Can same-sex couples marry anywhere in the United States? The Supreme Court said yes, making Tennessees voter-approved constitutional ban, passed in 2006, unenforceable.

But that doesnt mean the ban disappeared. Its still written into the state constitution. It simply cant be enforced unless Obergefell v. Hodges is overturned.

Now, that landmark ruling faces a real threat.

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This fall, the Supreme Court will decide whether to take up a case out of Kentucky that explicitly asks the justices to reverse Obergefell v. Hodges

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A day after the 2015 decision, then-Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, citing her religious beliefs. She served five days in jail for contempt of court.

Now, Davis is petitioning the Supreme Court to wipe away a 2023 judgment ordering her to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages and legal fees to a couple she turned away. In her filings, she goes further, asking the justices to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges entirely.

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Attorney Abby Rubenfeld, who helped lead the Tennessee case that became part of Obergefell v. Hodges, said Daviss legal argument is misleading.

She was not jailed because of her religious beliefs, Rubenfeld said. She was jailed because she refused to follow the law and do her job that she was being paid to do for the public.

Rubenfeld said this was the wrong fight for the wrong reasons, arguing the real question is whether sanctions against Davis were appropriate after she knowingly violated the law.

Some Tennessee lawmakers welcome the chance to challenge the 2015 decision.

Obergefell was an egregiously wrong decision, Rep. Gino Bulso (R-Brentwood) said.

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Even if the Supreme Court overturned marriage equality, a 2022 law signed by President Biden would still require Tennessee to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states.

Rubenfeld said that protection is narrow.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

With this Supreme Court, who knows what theyll do, she said.

If Obergefell v. Hodges falls, Rubenfeld warns Tennessee could immediately stop issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

It would be an incredible morass of problems, she said. Like me and my wife  weve been married since 2008, and we file joint taxes. Do we have to go back and refile and pay a lot of money? No, Im not doing that. Thats ridiculous.

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The Supreme Court takes up only a fraction of petitions each year, and it hasnt said if it will hear this one. Until then, Obergefell v. Hodges remains the law of the land, and same-sex marriage remains legal in Tennessee.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Testimony continued Wednesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court in the trial of a man accused of a 2022 shooting death at a South Avenue gas station.

Akeem Hargrove, 32, is charged with aggravated murder for the Dec. 22, 2022, shooting death of Devin Bell, 26. at a 1907 South Ave. gas station.

A jury was seated Monday before Judge Anthony DApolito. Testimony began Tuesday following opening statements.

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A woman who prosecutors said in opening statements had told police Hargrove confessed to the killing was cross-examined by defense attorneys Wednesday morning about phone calls and text messages she may have made.

A co-defendant, Zachary Bair, 32, is expected to testify for the prosecution against Hargrove.

Police said two men dressed in black and wearing masks ambushed Bell as he was in a car at the gas station about 2:35 a.m. A police dog found a gun and a knife on the route that police said the two killers ran after Bell was shot.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday hoisted the tricolour under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign at the Chief Minister's residence in Dehradun. The Chief Minister said that the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, started with the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has today become a great campaign of patriotism by reaching every person. The tricolour is a living symbol of our freedom, unity and rich cultural heritage. The Chief Minister appealed to the people of the state that on this Independence Day, everyone should hoist the tricolour with pride and respect at their home, office, and shop and salute the brave fighters who sacrificed for the independence of the country. Also, take your photo with the tricolour and share it on the official website, Har Ghar Tiranga. Earlier in the day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with his wife Sonal Shah, hoisted the tricolour at their residence in Delhi's Krishna Menon Marg, participating in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga campaign', which is being carried out across the country ahead of Independence Day. Visuals from his residence showed him hoisting the several-feet-long tiranga with his wife on his terrace, while the residence was also draped with the colours of the Indian flag. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on August 11, announced the 4th edition of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. The campaign, carried out across the country, has become a people's movement, with over 5 lakh young people registering in the fourth year of the campaign, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, this year, we are going to celebrate the fourth edition of the Tiranga campaign, for which more than 5 lakh youths have registered as volunteers. These youths will inspire people for the Tiranga campaign. (ANI)
TEXARKANA, Texas (KETK)  Officials with the Texarkana Police Department discovered more human bone remains along Waggoner Creek bed on Tuesday after a pedestrian found the initial remains earlier this month.

POLICE: Motorcyclist dies after allegedly running red light, causing crash in Longview

On Aug. 1, a person was walking along the creek bed when they stumbled upon what they suspected were human bones. According to Texarkana Police Department Public Information Officer Shawn Vaughn, the bones were confirmed to be human and authorities set out to find more.

Photo courtesy of the Texarkana Police Department

Texarkana Police detectives returned to the creek bed on Tuesday with Texas Game and Fish officers and their K-9 unit. More bones were found, but it is hard to determine how long they have been at the creek bed.

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PHOTOS: Upshur County Sheriffs Office seeking homes for 2 dogs found in poor condition

The only thing [medical examiners] can really say is [the bones] are old enough that the body itself decayed and all that was left were the bones, Vaughn said. Couldve been a year, couldve been three years.

It remains undetermined whether the bones found on Tuesday are also human. According to Vaughn, very few bones were found and the investigation is still in the early stages.

Nacogdoches father, grandmother arrested after toddler ingests THC gummies, police say

I do know that they found some more, but it is nowhere close to finding a full skeleton or anything like that, its just a few bones, Vaughn said.

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The Texarkana Police Department will continue to investigate and Vaughn said the remains are being sent to a medical examiner in Dallas.

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.

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(The Center Square)  Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a motion for contempt against former U.S. Rep. Robert Francis (Beto) ORourke claiming he violated a temporary restraining order issued by a Tarrant County judge.

A Texas district court on Friday granted a request for a temporary restraining order against ORourke and his political action group, Powered by People, The Center Square reported. Both are raising money to support House Democrats leaving Texas in opposition to a Congressional redistricting bill they say is an attempt to gerrymander to give Republicans an advantage during the 2026 midterm elections. More than 50 Democrats left the state to prevent the Texas House from conducting official business.

The 20-page lawsuit states, Robert Francis ORourke and his political influence operation, Powered by People, are traveling the state misleadingly raising political funds to pay for the personal expenses of Texas Democrats who have abandoned their offices and fled the state in the middle of a Special Legislative Session. Texas law prohibits, as a matter of public confidence and trust, personal fundraising for state officials.

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Nevertheless, Mr. ORourke and Powered by People are intentionally blurring the dichotomy between political and personal funds in a deceptive and confusing manner to take advantage of donors by directing consumers to political fundraising platforms, such as ActBlue, for the express political purpose of fight[ing] Republicans and protecting Democratic seats from corrupt republicans, meanwhile the funds are actually being used for lavish personal expenditures

Judge Megan Fahey issued a three-page ruling stating the court finds that harm is imminent to the State, and if the Court does not issue the Temporary Restraining Order, the State will be irreparably injured. Specifically, Defendants' fundraising conduct constitutes false, misleading, or deceptive acts under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act,  because Defendants are raising and utilizing political contributions from Texas consumers to pay for the personal expenses of Texas legislators, in violation of Texas law. Because this conduct is unlawful and harms Texas consumers, restraining this conduct is in the public interest.

Fahey also said ORourke and Powered by People have and will continue to engage in unlawful fundraising practices and utilization of political funds in a manner that either directly violates or causes Texas Democratic Legislators to violate Texas penal and election codes and House Rules of Procedure. Consumers have and continue to suffer irreparable harm through these unlawful acts because they are making political contributions that are being used to fund personal expenses and violate State law.

In response, ORourke said Paxton wants to silence me and stop me from leading this organization. He wants to stop us from fighting [President Donald] Trumps attempt to steal the five congressional seats he needs to hang on to power. But Im not going anywhere.

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He also held a rally the next day in Fort Worth saying he would continue fundraising.

After the TRO was issued, ORourke said it didn't stop him from raising money.

Still here, still raising and rallying to stop the steal of 5 congressional seats in Texas, he said. Ironic that you'd accuse someone of bribery when you were impeached in Texas for taking bribes from Nate Paul, he said to Paxton in a social media post. Hes referring to the Texas House impeaching Paxton on 20 charges, including for bribery, in 2023. Paxton was the first attorney general in Texas history to be impeached, and primarily by members of his own party. He was later acquitted by the Texas Senate along party lines.

ORourke also posted videos on social media of him speaking at rallies to raise money for the House Democratic cause in Kansas City and in Fort Worth. He also posted links to raise money, saying, the gloves are off. Donate now.

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At the rally in Fort Worth, he said, there are no refs in this game. F*** the rules.

The videos, claims, and fundraising links are cited in the contempt petition.

Paxton said ORourke is wrong on both counts. There is a referee  the Honorable Megan Fahey  and there are rules  namely, that a person violating a temporary restraining order can be fined up to $500 [a day] and jailed for up to six months.

The petition asks the court to censor ORourke, fine him $500 a day for violating the TRO and requests Defendant ORourke be confined to jail unless and until he demonstrates a willingness to abide by the Courts orders pending the outcome of this lawsuit.

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Given Robert Franciss vulgar disdain for the rule of law and immense personal wealth, imprisonment is absolutely necessary to persuade him to obey the lawful restraining order issued by the Tarrant County court, Paxton said. Robert Francis flagrantly and knowingly violated the court order I secured that prevents him from raising funds and distributing any more Beto Bribes. Hes about to find out that running your mouth and ignoring the rule of law has consequences in Texas. Its time to lock him up.

In response, ORourke said Paxton is lying about me to try to silence us. Heres the full clip, posting a video on social media. I mean every word. We alerted the Court that the AG's office blatantly lied in its filing. Were seeking maximum sanctions in response to his abuse of office. Taking the fight directly to this corrupt, lying thug.
A Texas district attorney who made headlines in 2022 for wrongly charging a woman with murder after she underwent a so-called self-induced abortion paid for another womans abortion in the mid-1990s, according to new court filings.

The allegations against Starr County District Attorney Gocha Ramirez, the target of a lawsuit brought by the woman he charged three years ago, came in sworn depositions from Rosita and Becky Rocha, a pair of sisters with whom Ramirez has admitted to having once had affairs.

DA Ramirez also knew that abortion was not a crime because, in the past, he not only urged Ms. Becky Rocha, with whom he had an extramarital affair, to get an abortion after she became pregnant with his child, but he also paid for the procedure, Tuesdays filing states.

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Rosita Rocha said in her deposition that Ramirez called her in April of 2022 to talk about his arrest of Lizelle Gonzalez, the woman hed charged with murder. Ramirez asked her how shed felt psychologically when shed had an abortion years earlier, to which Rosita Rocha said she responded: You should know. Becky went through one with your child.

The deposition was included in the court filing to underscore that Ramirez knew Gonzalez had not committed a crime. Emails to Ramirezs attorney seeking comment on the allegations were not immediately returned.

Rosita Rocha said she urged him on that call to get Gonzalez out of jail, where she spent three days before being released on a $500,000 bond. The case was later dropped, and in 2024, the State Bar of Texas fined and disciplined Ramirez for disregarding that women who seek abortions in Texas are exempt from criminal charges.

In another deposition, Becky Rocha said Ramirez made it clear to her she couldnt have his baby.

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He didnt tell me like straight out to have an abortion, but he told me that I could  we couldnt have that baby because of his career, she said.

Tuesdays court filing also references text messages between Ramirez and Becky Rocha in which Ramirez admits he shouldnt have charged Gonzalez.

Its very possible that my career is over, he wrote to her, according to the filing, adding: I should have never indicted her. Because its not Murder in Texas.

Gonzalezs lawsuit against Ramirez and other Starr County officials was brought in part by the American Civil Liberties Union and seeks $1 million in damages.

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Lizelle Gonzalezs life has been forever changed by the cruel and unconstitutional actions of Starr Countys elected officials, Lauren Johnson, director of the ACLU Abortion Criminal Defense Initiative, said in a statement Tuesday. Lizelle deserves justice for the trauma they have caused her and her family  and each of us deserve to be free of targeting by officials who ignore the law to unlawfully charge and arrest based on personal beliefs.

Related...
Texas Democrats who fled the state to break quorum and disrupt redistricting efforts could face felony bribery charges, Republican Governor Greg Abbott suggested in an interview with Fox News Digital.

As some AWOL Democrats are reportedly planning to return in time for a second special legislative session to begin next week, Abbott, who previously served as the state's attorney general and sat on the state supreme court, told Fox News Digital that Texas is looking into whether they violated laws against bribery by taking money to break quorum.

"There had been some identification of some people paying for it," Abbott explained. "I've got to tell you, it raises a serious legal question for these officeholders, and that is, they were promised money if they did break quorum. That would be a bribe that could lead to a felony charge."

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According to Abbott, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, also a Republican, is investigating whether the Democratic lawmakers could be hit with felony bribery charges.

"That also is something that the Texas attorney general is investigating and actually even got a temporary injunction from a court stopping any more money being given to these House members because of the potential bribe consequences," the governor explained.

Gov. Abbot Still Beat Newsom In Disaster Relief Despite Texas Democrats Stalling, Hiding Out

Read On The Fox News App

This comes after Tarrant County District Judge Megan Fahey handed down a temporary restraining order last Friday against Robert Francis "Beto" O'Rourke and his group, Powered by People, over alleged "unlawful fundraising practices" tied to efforts to support Texas Democrats who fled the state  including funding air travel, lodging, logistics and daily fines.

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Fahey's order bars O'Rourke or his group from continuing to fundraise or provide financial support to the fleeing Texas Democrats.

In the order, Fahey wrote that "defendants have and will continue to engage in unlawful fundraising practices and utilization of political funds in a manner that either directly violates or causes Texas Democratic Legislators to violate [the law]" and that contributors to the group "have and continue to suffer irreparable harm through these unlawful acts because they are making political contributions that are being used to fund personal expenses and violate state law."

In light of this, Abbott warned that "these House numbers are going to be facing not just the challenges of having to come back in deal with the consequences of their failure to be here but also deal with potential bribery charges against them."

Texas Gop Seeks To Domesticate Rogue Dems For Breaking Quorum Through Nationwide Civil Arrest Warrants

Texas Democrats stood next to Illinois lawmakers on Aug. 4, 2025, to oppose redistricting measures proposed by Texas Republicans.

The redistricting bill that has Democrats in an uproar was passed by the Texas Senate on Tuesday. If eventually passed by both chambers of the Texas legislature and signed into law by Abbott, Texas new districting map will give Republicans an estimated five additional seats in Congress. Now, all that stands in the way are the rogue House Democrats.

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Abbott said he has Texas law enforcement "scouring the streets of Texas right now to identify whether or not there are any Democrats remaining in the state of Texas."

"If they are, they will be arrested and taken to the Texas Capitol to try to make quorum," he said.

"There are 88 Republicans who are ready and able to work. We need 12 Democrats to show up. So, we're looking for 12 Democrats in the state of Texas, or if they're all out of state, we're looking to identify them and as you point out, using federal officials and others to assist us in that effort," he said.

Abbott has faced heavy criticism from Democratic leaders and other governors from across the political aisle for not backing down on Texas redistricting plans.

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O'rourke, Soros-linked Groups Face Call For Doj Probe Over Alleged Funding Of Texas Dem Walkout

The Texas State Capitol in Austin, where Isaiah Martin was arrested for refusing to yield during testimony on Thursday.

On Monday, California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom called on President Donald Trump to "call Greg Abbott and tell him to stand down."

"You are not entitled to 5 congressional seats. If you do not call your lapdogs off, CA will act quickly and swiftly. We will go to the ballot. We will neutralize whatever gains you make. We will not stand by while you light Democracy on fire," said Newsom.

In another X post by Newsoms official press office page, the governor appeared to mimic Trumps idiosyncratic style of using all-caps and superlatives for many of his posts, writing, "CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE BEAUTIFUL MAPS, THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!)."

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The post said Newsom would be holding a press conference this week on the matter and that it "WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR MAGA."

Dems Face Scrutiny Over Congressional Representation Gaps In Blue States: 'Don't Have Clean Hands'

Accompanied by California and Texas lawmakers, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, center, discusses the push to schedule a special election to redraw California's Congressional voting districts, during a news conference in Sacramento, Calif., Friday Aug. 8, 2025.

Abbott, however, said he remains unfazed by such attacks from Democrats.

"Listen, these Democrats in other states are just completely out of control," he told Fox News Digital. "They've been engaged in gerrymandering for decades in California, Illinois, New York, and elsewhere, and what they have lost touch with is the people."

He pointed out that Texas redistricting plans are within legal parameters, explaining, "What's happened here is that the law changed in the state of Texas last year that authorized the state to be able to redraw these lines because of a legal change that doesn't require coalition districts."

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"So, we're able to draw these districts in way in which representatives are going to be lining up with the values of voters of the state of Texas," he said, adding, "What we're doing in our state is to make sure that we are going to have the districts represented by people who actually represent these voters."

In response, a spokesperson for Newsom directed Fox News Digital to another X post by the governors office that mocked Abbott for saying the redistricting effort reflects the will of the voters, saying, "Is GREG ABBOTTS POWER GRAB now going to the voters???"

Spokespersons for both Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, both Democrats, also referred Fox News Digital to previous comments made by the governors.

Hochuls office pointed to comments she made speaking on Fox News on Sunday in which she called the redistricting effort a "legal insurrection."

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"Texas, knock it off, well knock it off and lets get back to governing," said Hochul. "But you want to play these games? Were not going to sit on the sidelines because we fight back."

A spokesperson for Pritzker simply said, "think hes been pretty clear," while referring Fox News Digital to prior comments by the governor.

Fox News Digital also reached out to the Texas House Democratic Caucus but did not immediately receive a response.





Original article source: Texas Democrats who fled could face felony bribery charges, governor says
A chasm has emerged between two Texas Republican Senate candidates in the legal fight against Democrats who fled the state to block a redistricting push.

State GOP leaders are pushing several courts to clear the way for lawmakers to achieve a quorum and pass a new House map.

It has also become a shadow war in the states upcoming Senate GOP primary.

Incumbent Sen. John Cornyn went to the Texas Supreme Court to accuse his conservative primary challenger, state Attorney General Ken Paxton, of having undercut efforts to bring legislators back to Texas.

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Paxton is now trading barbs with his rival, pushing back that he only whines all day on X.

The fracas began after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) last Tuesday launched a petition at the states high court aiming to declare the runaway Democrats seats vacant.

Paxton has sought to defeat it by insisting his office has the right to lead the charge, not Abbotts. But Paxton wanted to wait until the state Speakers Friday deadline for Democrats to return.

While the Attorney General appreciates the Governors passion for ensuring that the Texas House reestablishes the quorum that is necessary to discharge the important business of the Legislature, this Courts precedent is clear that a quo warranto proceeding can only be brought by the attorney general, a county attorney, or a district attorney, Paxtons office wrote in court filings.

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It gave Cornyn, who faces his biggest political fight of his life yet with Paxtons primary challenge, an opening.

In a two-page friend-of-the-court brief  signed by Cornyn personally rather than a lawyer  the senator condemned Paxton for having delayed taking action to remove the absconding legislators.

Finally, after further delay, the Attorney General today duplicated the Governors petition in this Courtin some instances word for wordbut then sought an individualized writ on behalf of a purported class of respondents, Cornyn wrote.

Surprisingly, the Attorney General again invites delay by suggesting this Court should give absconded Democrats more time  48 hours after issuance of any decision to consider their options, he continued.

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The move comes as Cornyn broadly leans into Texass redistricting fight, hoping to fend off the primary challenge from his right. Most polls show him consistently trailing Paxton, but a flood of outside groups are pouring in money to boost Cornyn.

John Cornyn has been an absolute clown this week with his Paxton Derangement Syndrome. But using his official office to attack me in the TX Supreme Court for working to enforce warrants in other states takes the cake. This man is spiraling, Paxton responded on X.

Paxton has also highlighted his offices victory in convincing a judge to block former Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Texas) from financially supporting the Democrats who left the state. Paxton accused ORourke of violating the order Tuesday and pushed for him to be held in contempt of court and sent to jail.

The Texas Supreme Court, meanwhile, is now weighing both the governor and attorney generals petitions seeking to declare Democrats seats vacant. On Monday, the court set a briefing schedule through Sept. 4.

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Paxton has also escalated his efforts by trying to reach across state lines.

With Democrats having fled to California and Illinois, Paxton has filed legal complaints in both states seeking to initiate contempt proceedings against the absent lawmakers.

Restoration of functional representative democracy, as evidenced by 250 years of American history, is the best and only way to resolve policy disputes, reads the California complaint, which was announced Saturday.

The public acts of Texas to restore that democratic process are entitled under the United States Constitution to full faith and credit from California, it continues.

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Cornyn, however, decried the move a Hail Mary.

Welcome to The Gavel, The Hills weekly courts newsletter. Ella is off this week. Im Zach Schonfeld. Reach out to me on X (@ZachASchonfeld) or Signal (zachschonfeld.48) with news tips. Not on the list? Sign up here or using the box below.

IN FOCUS

Trump flexes D.C. National Guards unique setup

President Trump is flexing his power over the D.C. National Guard, whose unique structure provides Trump with heightened authority compared to state units.

Unlike in Los Angeles, where Trump had to wrest control from California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) to deploy troops, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) does not command the citys National Guard.

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The Guard members instead are always under the presidents control, enabling Trump to quickly deploy 800 troops to the nations capital.

And the distinct setup in D.C. also impacts what the troops can do on the ground.

When the president federalizes a states National Guard unit, the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act generally bars those troops from participating in domestic civil law enforcement.

Its a battle playing out in California, where U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer this week is holding a bench trial to determine whether Trump violated it when deploying the National Guard to Los Angles to combat immigration protests.

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Newsom contends that troops ran afoul of the statute when they moved away from guarding federal buildings in downtown to protecting immigration agents during raids.

But if you ask the Justice Department, regardless of the answer, it doesnt impact D.C.

A 1989 opinion from the departments Office of Legal Counsel states that the Posse Comitatus Act doesnt apply to the D.C. National Guard because the president doesnt actually federalize the troops. The issue had come up as the Guard looked to get more involved in local drug law enforcement efforts.

The described use of the District of Columbia National Guard is not prohibited by the Posse Comitatus Act because that Act does not apply to a National Guard acting as a militia, wrote Douglas Kmiec, who led the office at the time. The conservative lawyer later gained fame for endorsing former President Obama in 2008.

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As Trump sends in the National Guard, is also flexing his legal authority over D.C. to take over the Metropolitan Police Department. Trump did so by invoking an emergency provision of the D.C. Home Rule Act, the 1970s law giving D.C. control over its local affairs.

D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb (D) called Trumps move unlawful and said he was considering all of our options. Democracy Forward, one of the most prolific filers of lawsuits against the Trump administration, similarly said it was considering legal options.

But it remains unclear whether theyll have grounds to sue.

The provision Trump cites, Section 740, allows him to take over the police department whenever he determines that special conditions of an emergency nature exist that require the force be used for federal purposes.

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In other cases involving emergency powers, the administration has repeatedly taken the position that judges owe deference to the president or have no authority to second guess his emergency findings.

So even as Schwalb and other city leaders condemn Trumps assertion of a crime emergency and point to data indicating violent crime is dropping this year in D.C., the courts may not be able to delve into those arguments.

That reality appears to have set in for Bowser. At her Monday press conference, she pointed to that language in the Home Rule Act when asked if she would mount a legal challenge.

It authorizes the president to make those requests, and it says the mayor shall comply with those requests, Bowser cautioned.

Trump ratchets up pressure on universities

The Trump administration is ratcheting up the pressure on elite universities as it hopes to secure nine- or even 10-figure settlements.

At Harvard University, the only college to directly take on Trump in court over his efforts, no settlement has yet materialized despite the president saying in June that a deal was close.

The New York Times reported Monday that Harvard was again nearing a deal with the administration that could amount to $500 million.

As rumors swirl, the administration opened a new front of the battle on Friday by commencing an investigation into the schools patents.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wrote a letter to Harvard President Alan Garber indicating the Commerce Department was reviewing whether Harvard was complying with the Bayh-Dole Act, which governs patents derived from federally funded research.

We believe that Harvard has failed to live up to its obligations to the American taxpayer and is in breach of the statutory, regulatory, and contractual requirements tied to Harvards federally funded research programs and intellectual property arising therefrom, including patents, Lutnick wrote in the letter.

Its now a third prong of the increasing pressure on Harvard. The school is already suing the administration for freezing roughly $2.2 billion in federal grants and rescinding the schools ability to host international students.

Last week, the Justice Department said it wanted to simplify the latter case.

Court records show the administration agreed to not enforce a May Department of Homeland Security letter revoking Harvards certification to enroll international students, the initial focus of the schools lawsuit. However, it would still leave in place Trumps June proclamation that similarly sought to curtail international enrollment.

Defendants also made clear that they were open to counterproposals and a meet and confer. Plaintiff did not accept, the Justice Department wrote in the filing.

Harvard did not return a request for comment.

After Harvard declined to agree, the administration filed a 33-page motion to dismiss the case Friday.

All of Harvards constitutional claims against the Proclamation fail at the outset, it reads.

U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs, an appointee of former President Obama who serves in Boston, has blocked Trumps proclamation as the litigation continues. She is still weighing whether the block the funding freeze after holding a hearing last month.

Meanwhile, the administration is setting its eyes on other schools. In recent weeks, the administration has pulled $584 million in grants to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and is seeking a $1 billion settlement.

The school doesnt appear ready to accept it.

As a public university, we are stewards of taxpayer resources and a payment of this scale would completely devastate our countrys greatest public university system as well as inflict great harm on our students and all Californians, University of California President James Milliken said in a statement.

The proposed UCLA and Harvard deals would far exceed the amounts Trump has secured so far. Columbia University agreed to pay a $200 million fine to the government plus an additional $21 million to settle civil rights investigation. Brown University reached a deal that requires it to pay $50 million.

New schools are entering the crossfire, too. On Tuesday, the Justice Department said The George Washington University is in violation of federal civil rights law, describing it as deliberately indifferent to antisemitism on campus.

SIDEBAR

5 top docket updates

1. Judge keeps secret Maxwell grand jury materials: A federal judge in New York rejected the Justice Departments request to unseal grand jury materials used to charge Ghislaine Maxwell, the longtime accomplice of Jeffrey Epstein.

2. Minnesota suspect pleads not guilty: The man accused of shooting two Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses, killing one of the couples, pleaded not guilty to six federal charges Thursday.

3. Jewish museum shooting suspect indicted: A grand jury last week indicted the man accused of fatally shooting two Israeli Embassy staffers outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. Prosecutors brought new hate crime charges and began laying the groundwork for him to potentially face the death penalty.

4. Student newspaper sues Trump admin: The Stanford Daily sued the Trump administration last week after student visa holders who write for the paper self-censored their writings about the Israel-Gaza war due to fears they would be deported.

5. Democracy group funds restored: A federal judge ruled Monday that the Trump administration is illegally withholding funds from the National Endowment for Democracy.



In other news

Court filing system cyberattacks: The federal courts electronic filing system has experienced recent cyberattacks of a sophisticated and persistent nature, the judiciarys administrative arm said Thursday. The New York Times reported that U.S. investigators suspect Russia is is at least in part responsible, and it comes ahead of Trumps planned summit Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

SCOTUS docket refresh: The Supreme Court refreshed the look of its online dockets. The tan-based design has been replaced with silver. It may not look like much change, but it was enough to muck up scrapers that we and court watchers use to automate case updates.

Roy for Texas AG?: Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) is eyeing a bid for Texas attorney general, sources told our colleague Mychael Schnell.

Lawmaker accused of revenge porn threat: A woman accused Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) of threatening to release explicit photos and videos of her. On Thursday, a judge declined the womans request for a restraining order but scheduled a hearing later this month.

Former senator returns to law firm: Former Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) has joined law firm Dilworth Paxson after narrowly losing reelection last year, the firm announced. Casey worked at the firm before law school, and his father, the late Pennsylvania Gov. Bob Casey Sr. (D), was a partner there.

THE ORDER LIST

Cases the Supreme Court is taking up  or passing on  next term.

OUT: The Supreme Court is still in its summer recess, but we wanted to bring you a new update on one case.

The justices this past term were set to consider Department of Education v. Career Colleges and Schools of Texas, the Biden administrations defense of its rule easing students ability to receive debt forgiveness if they were defrauded by their college.

Soon after Trump took office, the proceedings ground to a halt as his administration reassessed its position. But in May, Solicitor General D. John Sauer said the Education Department wished to proceed, so the court resumed the case. It was set to be heard this upcoming term.

Now, the case has taken a turn once again.

The One Big Beautiful Bill contained a provision stating the borrower defense provision shall not be in effect for loans that originate before July 1, 2035, and restored the regulations that were in effect before the Biden era.

Because that intervening legislation bears on the issues in this case, petitioners intend to dismiss this case, Sauer told the Supreme Court on Friday.

And just like that, the case is gone. The court issued its formal, one-sentence order dismissing it Monday.

ON THE DOCKET

Dont be surprised if additional hearings are scheduled throughout the week. But heres

what were watching for now:



Today:

A federal judge in Washington, D.C., will consider Media Matterss bid to block the Federal Trade Commission from investigating the liberal media watchdog over its coverage of advertising on Elon Musks X. Media Matters says the investigation is a illegal retaliation brought by Musks allies.

Thursday:

A federal judge in Maine will hold a hearing on Maine Family Plannings request for a temporary restraining order blocking Medicaid cuts to the group under a provision in the One, Big Beautiful Bill. A judge in Massachusetts has blocked the provision as applied to Planned Parenthood, but not other groups.

Friday:

A federal judge in Maryland will consider a bid by the NAACP, the National Education Association and other plaintiffs to block Trumps executive order that aims to dismantle the Education Department. The Supreme Court lifted a similar injunction issued in a separate lawsuit.

Monday:

The Supreme Court will release a summer order list.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett will speak at the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals judicial conference in Chicago.

Tuesday:

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will convene in San Francisco to hear oral arguments in the Trump administrations appeal of injunctions ordering thousands of probationary employees reinstatement and requiring the government provide certain notice before terminating them.

WHAT WERE READING

The Vineyard Gazettes Gwyn Skiles and Addison Antonoff: During Vineyard Visit, Supreme Court Justice Delves into Her Roots

The New York Timess Michael C. Bender: The Harvard-Trained Lawyer Behind Trumps Fight Against Top Universities

Professor Adam Feldman on Substack: The Most Powerful Dissents in the 20242025 Supreme Court Term

ABC Newss Peter Charalambous: Meet the Native American tribe that beat the Trump administration in court  for 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 The Hill.
After the Texas House didnt reach a quorum on Tuesday, the Texas House Democratic Caucus said absconding House Democrats would return after the first special session is over.

Those who left the state to prevent a vote on new congressional maps will return to Texas, feeling they have accomplished their mission of killing the first special session, raising awareness and sparking national backlash about the mid-decade redistricting, the caucus told ABC News and Houston ABC station KTRK.

It is unclear which day they will be in Austin at the Capitol, but they stress that they will push for Hill Country flooding relief to be the priority, the outlet reported.

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In amicus briefs filed with the Texas Supreme Court in a case Gov. Greg Abbott filed to removed Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, from office, Democrats said breaking quorum was a brief absence with a clear end date, The Center Square reported.

In a separate statement Tuesday night, the caucus said, Members are still assessing their strategies going forward and are in meetings to make decisions about future plans currently.

If and when Texas House Democrats breaking quorum decide to go home is squarely dependent on the actions the Governor, Speaker, and Texas Republicans in charge make with regard to prioritizing flood victims over redistricting that hurts Texans.

The caucus issued statements on Tuesday after House Democrats continued to break quorum this week.

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On Monday, House Speaker Dustin Burrows said a bill package to provide Hill Country flood relief and reforms was scheduled for a floor vote on Tuesday. On Tuesday, House Democrats didnt show up.

Despite House Democrats claims to prioritize flood victims, the first scheduled floor vote they missed was to provide relief for flood victims.

Because of their absence, Burrows said, We cannot take up the critical flood response legislation scheduled for a floor vote. [The bill package] would help families, some communities who've lost their homes, their businesses, their livelihoods, and in some cases, their loved ones, The Center Square reported.

On the same day, the Texas Senate passed a flood relief package, which will go nowhere if the House does not meet a quorum. In the next special session, all of the bills the Senate passed will be voted on again.

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Burrows said on Tuesday that he will call the House to convene on Friday. If the House doesnt meet quorum, the first special session will end. Both the Texas House and Senate will sine die on Friday.

We will gavel in for the second session on Friday and reestablish the call of the house; civil arrest warrants for absconding Democrats will still be valid, Burrows said.

In response, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said, House Democrats have made their point and now face a choice. They should return from their vacation before Friday and pass the bills on the governors special session call. If not, the Texas Senate will adjourn Sine Die on Friday so Gov. Abbott can immediately call us back for another special session.

This will continue in perpetuity.

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He also said the Texas Senate will pass the bills on Gov. Abbotts special session call over, and over, and over again until the House Democrats return from their vacation to do the peoples business. The decision is theirs.

If no quorum is reached in the House on Friday, Gov. Abbott said he will immediately call a second special session.

I will call the Texas Legislature back immediately for Special Session #2, he said. The Special Session #2 agenda will have the exact same agenda, with the potential to add more items critical to Texans. There will be no reprieve for the derelict Democrats who fled the state and abandoned their duty to the people who elected them. I will continue to call special session after special session until we get this Texas first agenda passed."

It remains unclear if DPS and Texas Rangers will meet returning Democrats at the airport or at their homes to arrest them and bring them to the capitol. Burrows said troopers are sitting outside their homes and tracking every lead until they return to the House chamber for bills to be voted on.
If you didn't know, Texas public schools are introducing a new slate of regulations this year after state legislators passed hundreds of laws, including banning cellphones and school-sponsored DEI or LGBTQ+ clubs.

Bloomberg / Bloomberg via Getty Images

The laws that have gained the most attention are not just what's being removed from the institutions but what's being added  mandatory prayer time and the Ten Commandments in every classroom.

Geography Photos / Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Related: Donald Trump Just Shared A Very Ominous Post, And People Are Calling It "One Of The Worst Statements Ever Made By A Sitting US President"

Here's a quick breakdown of what will be prohibited in Texas schools.

Pgiam / Getty Images/iStockphoto

House Bill 1481 will prohibit students from using cellphones and any other personal electronic devices at school. The legislators believe this new law will improve performance and reduce distractions in the classroom.

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Senate Bill 12 will prohibit any school-sponsored clubs based on gender identity or sexual orientation, and any diversity, equity, and inclusion programs or policies in K12 schools.

Under Senate Bill 13, school boards and parents will have a final say over which books are allowed in some school libraries, not librarians. If 10% or at least 50 parents request an advisory council to approve/remove materials in school libraries, the institution must create it.

In free or reduced school lunches and breakfast programs, Senate Bill 314 will ban certain additives (brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, red dye 3, and more). According to lawmakers, the additives introduce long-term health risks and disorders to children.

Not everything is being taken away from Texas schools. Some things are being added to campuses due to these new laws. House Bill 27 will require financial literacy classes to be added to the high school curriculum starting in 2026. Public schools will receive new funding for teachers, early childhood development, special education, insurance, and more. Families will also have public access to private school vouchers thanks to Senate Bill 2.

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What's being added to schools is what is really gaining attention and going viral. Senate Bill 11 will require schools to designate Bible reading and prayer time during the school day. And Senate Bill 10 will require public elementary and secondary schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom on a visible 16" x 20" poster.

WFAA, WFAA / Hays CISD

According to Texas news reports, organizations like Texas Values, a faith-based conservative nonprofit, partner with like-minded groups to donate Ten Commandment posters to classrooms. While the new law requires donated posters to be displayed, some districts have actually purchased their own posters. Even lawmakers in support of the bills have started raising money to buy posters to prepare the schools for the Sept. 1 deadline.

The new Texas laws have gone viral and have sparked many concerned reactions and comments.

Related: "This Is Like Applauding A Grown Man For Being Able To Wipe Their Behind": 29 Of The Best, Most Brutal, And Funniest Political Tweets Of The Week

"No phones? Ten Commandments? Thank goodness I graduated when I did because this all sounds so miserable. I feel bad for the kids," one person wrote.

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Another person said, "i'm genuinely astounded by how texas managed to get away with such blatant violations of the separation of church and state as 'every classroom must have a visible 16" x20" poster of the ten commandments on display.' this country is headed backwards so fast it's unbelievable."

Related: "You Have The Nerve To Call Yourself Christian": The Internet Is Finding It Hard To Sympathize With This Trump Supporter Who Is Suddenly Worried About Access To Healthcare Now That She Might Lose Hers

Someone else added, "there's nothing inherently wrong with being christian but forcing every classroom to display the ten commandments is so fucking dystopian."

This person said, "Prayer Time and the Ten Commandments are a jump scare."

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"The Ten Commandments in school thing is so funny. Gotta remind first graders not to kill someone or bang their neighbor's wife," another person said.

Related: Hillary Clinton Just Hit On One Of Donald Trump's Biggest Insecurities With Three Words

"'pronouns are an agenda.' and shoving americanized christianity down the throats of atheists, hindus, muslims, and others isn't? as a christian, this is religious coercion, which is unbiblical and downright cultish," someone else commented.

And finally, someone brutally wrote, "Oh, good- so when one of the students (in the state with the most registered firearms) shows up with their parents gun and decides to light it up, the students will have prayer hour and a ten commandment poster to look at but not the ability to call 911 or their parents."

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What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

Also in In the News: "The AI Told Him To Kill Himself And He Did": 10 Nightmare Things AI And Robots Have Done To Humans

Also in In the News: A Viral Video Is Exposing The Massive Difference Between Christianity And "MAGA Christianity," And Trump Supporters Are Not Happy

Also in In the News: Gavin Newsom Is Going Viral For Shutting Down JD Vance With One Single Map

Read it on BuzzFeed.com
Aug. 12 (UPI) -- The Texas Senate voted 19-2 along party lines on Tuesday to approve a congressional redistricting map that is identical to a version in the Texas House.

The measure, Senate Bill 4, redraws the state's U.S. House of Representatives districts.

Nine of the 11 Democrats in the Texas Senate walked out immediately before the chamber voted to approve the new redistricting map.

The only Democrats who remained were Sens. Judith Zaffirini of Laredo and Chuy Hinojosa of McCallen, The Dallas Morning News reported.

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The other nine Democrats briefly met with reporters outside of the Senate chamber.

"There's only one party here that has actually abdicated its responsibility, and that's the Republican Party," Sen. Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas, said.

The measure now goes to the state House of Representatives, which has not been able to conduct business since its Democratic Party members walked out on Aug. 4.

Many are staying in New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles to prevent a quorum that is required to conduct business in the Texas House.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Sunday threatened to call for a series of special legislative sessions to keep the Texas House in session indefinitely.

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He also has threatened to expand the number of revised congressional districts to as many as 10 to punish the state's House Democratic caucus if they don't return soon.

If the House eventually convenes and approves the redistricting bill, at least one legal challenge will be filed.

"Under this new, even worse, millions of Texans ... will have their voices silenced," John Bisognano, president of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, said in a prepared statement.

Bisognano accused the Texas GOP of "targeting Texans of color" in the redistricting effort.

"Make no mistake, if Texas Republicans enact this discriminatory map, they will face swift, significant resistance from the people and in the courts," he said.

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If enacted, the new U.S. House districts would be created before the 2026 mid-term elections and potentially flip five seats currently held by Texas Democrats to the Republican Party.

The Texas GOP undertook the redistricting task upon the suggestion of President Donald Trump in mid-July.

Trump in July accused Democrats of gerrymandering in the respective states in which they control the legislatures and suggested Texas revise its congressional districts.

Harmeet Dhillon, the Justice Department's assistant attorney general for civil rights, in July described four U.S. House districts in Texas as "coalition districts" that are comprised of different racial groups who generally support the same candidate.

Such districts are not protected by the Voting Rights Act and are subject to redistricting, Dhillon said.
The Texas Senate approved new Republican-drawn congressional maps Tuesday night despite an ongoing walkout by House Democrats aimed at halting the redistricting process.

Senators passed the maps in a 19-2 vote after nine Democrats left the floor in protest. Two Democrats  Judith Zaffirini of Laredo and Juan Chuy Hinojosa of McAllen  remained in the chamber, giving Republicans the quorum needed to proceed.

The proposed maps are projected by Republicans to create five additional GOP-leaning districts if enacted.

BREAKING: Texas Senate passes new state redistricting map, adding 5 Republican seats. Demonstrators walked out in protest. It must now pass the Texas House, which currently has no quorum due to Texas House Democrats fleeing the state. pic.twitter.com/bPj9HnQqcB  Bruce Snyder (@realBruceSnyder) August 12, 2025

This mid-decade redistricting isnt about fair representationits about politicians picking their voters instead of voters choosing their leaders, the Senate Democratic Caucus said in a statement, according to The Texas Tribune. And it doesnt stop here. If they can gerrymander now, they can and will do it before every election.

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The House remains at a standstill. Nearly all Democratic representatives have fled the state to block a quorum and prevent the maps from coming to a vote. Without their return, the measure cannot advance to the governors desk.

Civil arrest warrants have been issued by the House Republican majority to compel absent members back to Austin. The warrants carry no criminal penalty and are enforceable only within state lines.

Attorney General Ken Paxton said, I am prepared to do everything in my power to hold them accountable because these liberal lawmakers are not above the law. Its imperative that they be swiftly arrested, punished, and face the full force of the law for turning their backs on the people of Texas. He added that he will continue to use every legal tool at his disposal to enforce the law.

Republicans argue the new maps are needed to address concerns raised by the Trump administration that Texas was out of compliance with the Voting Rights Act. Critics contend the changes dilute minority voting power.

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State Sen. Mayes Middleton told Fox News Digital: Literally, this redistricting bill could save this entire nation. This is why this fight is so important to me. I will fight with everything in me to make sure that this map becomes law, and we get those five more Republican seats  It could literally save America. He called Democrats challenge meritless.

The impasse follows earlier high-profile quorum breaks in Texas politics, including a 2021 flight to Washington, D.C., by House Democrats to oppose a GOP-backed election reform bill.
The Texas state Senate approved new Republican-drawn maps Tuesday night, which have led House Democrats in Texas to flee the state.

While Texas House Democrats remain on the lam in an effort to obstruct legislative proceedings spearheaded by Republicans to redraw the state's congressional maps, the Senate was still able to obtain a quorum and pass the maps. They now must be passed in the House, but it is unclear when that will be possible.

During the vote, nine Democrats exited the floor in protest, but two remained on the floor, which allowed the Senate to reach a quorum. The vote to pass the new maps eventually gained approval by the Senate following a 19-2 vote.

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Abbott, Paxton Launch Legal Blitz On Fleeing Democrats In Redistricting Showdown

Texas has become a flashpoint for the debate over partisan gerrymandering.

"This mid-decade redistricting isnt about fair representationits about politicians picking their voters instead of voters choosing their leaders," the Senate Democratic Caucus said in a statement, according to The Texas Tribune. "And it doesnt stop here. If they can gerrymander now, they can and will do it before every election."

Texas Republicans began pushing for new maps after the Trump administration directed state officials that they were in violation of the Voting Rights Act.

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Civil arrest warrants were issued by the Texas House Republican majority last week in an effort to compel the absent Democrats to return, but they are only enforceable within state lines and do not lead to jail time, since the warrants are not criminal.

Texas Dems Also Skipped Town In 2021 To Avoid A Vote, And Several Caught Covid-19 In Dc

The Texas State Capitol in Austin, where Isaiah Martin was arrested for refusing to yield during testimony on Thursday.

However, Texas Republicans are seeking to utilize "every legal remedy at our disposal to hold these rogue legislators accountable," Texas GOP Attorney General Ken Paxton said.

In addition to blocking Texas Republicans' redistricting bill, the exodus of Texas Democrats is obstructing crucial legislation from making its way through the legislature, state Sen. Mayes Middleton told Fox News Digital.

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This includes flood-disaster relief aid, bills to protect women's spaces, and more.





Original article source: Texas state Senate passes new Republican drawn congressional map as House Dems remain on the lam
Doda District administration in Jammu and Kashmir has distributed 1 lakh national flags under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Campaign ahead of Independence Day. On Tuesday, the district administration organised Tiranga Yatra all over the district. "Ahead of the Independence Day celebration, yesterday, Tiranga Yatra was organised all over the district during which a 1508-metre-long flag was unfurled by the children. In the next 2-3 days, we will culminate our 'Har Ghar Tiranga' program," Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh told ANI. "We have also distributed 1 lakh Tiranga to our officials. I would like to request that everyone join the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' initiative and hoist the flag at their house," he added. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with his wife Sonal Shah, hoisted the tricolour at their residence in Delhi's Krishna Menon Marg, participating in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga campaign' which is being carried out across the country ahead of Independence Day. Visuals from his residence showed him hoisting the several feet long Tiranga with his wife on his terrace, while the residence was also draped with the colours of the Indian flag. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on August 11, announced the 4th edition of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. The campaign, carried out across the country, has become a people's movement, with over 5 lakh young people registering in the fourth year of the campaign, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, "This year, we are going to celebrate the fourth edition of the Tiranga campaign, for which more than 5 lakh youths have registered as volunteers. These youths will inspire people for the Tiranga campaign." Addressing a press conference, Shekhawat said that Har Ghar Tiranga is more than a campaign -- it is an emotional movement that unites 1.4 billion Indians under the timeless colours of our National Flag. It aims to instil patriotism, foster civic pride and spread awareness about the significance of the Tiranga as a living symbol of our democracy and independence. (ANI)
(The Center Square)  The Texas Supreme Court has set an expedited briefing schedule in a case filed by Gov. Greg Abbott to remove from office House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston.

Aligned parties are encouraged to consolidate their briefing to the extent practicable. The briefs should address all issues before the Court, including the import of the House of Representatives authority under TEX. CONST., art. III,  8, 10, and 11. The petitions for writ of quo warranto remain under consideration by this Court, the courts instruction states.

The expedited briefing schedule allows the briefs to be filed up to midnight on the due date. The deadline for Abbotts brief to be filed is Wednesday, August 20; Wus response is due Friday, August 29. Reply briefs are due Thursday, September 4.

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On August 5, Abbott filed an emergency petition with the Texas Supreme Court to remove Wu from office. Wu led more than 50 House Democrats to abscond from their official duties in Austin, leave the state to deny the Texas House a quorum, and halt legislative business during a special session.

Abbotts petition states that Wus willful refusal to serve as a representative is abandonment of the office of representative. He also argues the principal duty of a legislator is to attend and participate in legislative sessions as required by Article III, Section 5 of the Texas Constitution. The quorum provisions further underscore that attendance is not optional; it is an affirmative constitutional obligation.

Representative Wu has openly renounced these constitutional mandates by fleeing the State of Texas to break quorum, obstruct legislative proceedings, and paralyze the Texas House of Representatives, he argues, The Center Square reported.

Wus responded, arguing the Texas Supreme Court doesnt have the authority to remove him from office. Only two-thirds of the House of Representatives has the authority to do that, he said, citing Article III, Section 11 of the Texas Constitution.

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He also argues Abbotts request is unprecedented and Texas has a long history of quorumbreaking, which the Texas Constitution expressly contemplates and assigns to the legislative branch for enforcement. The petition, for the first time, asks the judiciary to remove an elected member of a co-equal branch.

He also cites examples for why Abbotts petition can be denied on numerous grounds, both jurisdictional and procedural.

Abbott also directed the Texas Rangers to investigate potential bribery charges of absconding House Democrats who have been fundraising to thwart official legislative business.

He also addresses the bribery charge in his petition requesting Wu be removed from office. It states, Wus actions violate Article XVI, Section 41, which requires forfeiture of his office.  There is an especially good reason why bribery may form the basis for removal from office: Our Constitution seeks to root out bribery at practically every turn. The oath-of-office provisions, for example, obligate state officers to sign a statement swearing that they have not and will not exchange things of value for the giving or withholding of a vote.

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He asked the court to remove Wu from office to ensure that public office remains a trust exercised in good faith, as opposed to a platform for private gain and governmental sabotage.

In response, Wu argues Abbotts petition makes conclusory allegations and cites three news articles and two social media posts to support his bribery claim.  Even setting aside that these are allegations, not competent evidence, they fail to make out a case for bribery.

There are no facts to at all establish that Representative Wu engaged in a quid pro quo arrangement, it continues. He also argues, it is commonplace for elected officials to tie appeals for political contributions to specific policy actions they intend to or have taken.

In Abbotts response, he states, Wu nowhere controverts the facts in the petition.

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Wu insists he is carrying out his duties as his judgment dictates. But with no regard for carrying out his duties in the way the Constitution requires. Our Constitution is structured to deliver a quorum, not to prevent one, he continues.

Wus determination that special session is over grinds government to a halt, arrogating to himself the Governors prerogative to call a Special Session and the Speakers ability to gavel out, undermining the Legislatures duty to meet and act on bills, Abbott argues.

In response to Wu claiming the Texas Constitution enables quorum breaking, Abbott said it does so in the same way that a highway enables one to reach speeds of 120 mph in a 60mph zone. Exercising the freedom to speed may result in law enforcement issuing a speeding ticket, hauling the driver into court, and ultimately  if infractions persist  taking away the drivers license.

More than a dozen amicus briefs have been filed in support of Abbott or Wus positions.

As of Tuesday, House Democrats have yet to return to Austin. Five more are needed to make quorum. Gov. Abbott is expected to call a second special session on Friday if the House does not meet quorum again.
(The Center Square)  The Texas Supreme Court has set an expedited schedule in a case filed by Attorney General Ken Paxton requesting the court remove 13 Texas House Democrats. from office

Aligned parties are encouraged to consolidate their briefing to the extent practicable. The briefs should address all issues before the Court, including the import of the House of Representatives authority under TEX. CONST., art. III,  8, 10, and 11. The petitions for writ of quo warranto remain under consideration by this Court, the courts instructions state.

The expedited briefing schedule allows the briefs to be filed up to midnight on the due date. The deadline for Paxtons brief to be filed is Wednesday, August 20; 13 House Democrats response is due Friday, August 29. Reply briefs are due Thursday, Sept. 4.

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The dates are the same as those the court set in the expedited briefing schedule for the lawsuit filed by Gov. Greg Abbott against state Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, The Center Square reported.

In this case, Paxton filed a petition for writs of quo warranto with the Texas Supreme Court to declare 13 House seats vacant currently held by Democrats whove left the state, The Center Square reported.

The State of Texas brings this original proceeding for writs of quo warranto, the petition states. Respondents, thirteen members of the Texas House of Representatives, have fled from the State with the intent to, and for the admitted purpose of, interfering with the operation of the Legislature. Respondents have also willfully refused to return when the Legislature has been convened by the Governor and despite the Speaker of the Houses issuance of warrants for their arrest. Because Respondents have abandoned their offices as State Representatives, the Attorney General, on behalf of the State, seeks a declaration that those positions are vacant.

The lawsuit requests the court to declare the following Texas House seats vacant:

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District 27: Ron Reynolds; District 47: Vikki Goodwin; District 49: Gina Hinojosa; District 50: James Talarico; District 51: Lulu Flores; District 70: Mihaela Plesa; District 76: Suleman Lalani; District 101: Chris Turner; District 102: Ana-Maria Ramos; District 104: Jessica Gonzalez; District 136: John Bucy III; District 137: Gene Wu; District 145: Christina Morales.

The lawsuit focuses on 13 Democrats who made incriminating public statements about their refusal to return to Austin, essentially confirming in their own words the very grounds for this legal action, the Office of Attorney General said in a statement. Texas law provides the Attorney General with explicit authority to represent the State in quo warranto actions and to appear before the Texas Supreme Court in matters where the State has a direct interest.

The Texas Constitution, statutes, and rules provide a broad range of tools for members of a legislative minority to be heard. But those tools do not include concerted effort by members of the minority to disrupt the functioning of the Legislature by abdicating their duties, including spurning the constitutional authority of the remaining members to compel their attendance, Paxton said in a ness release. When members of the Legislature disregard arrest warrants, refuse to perform their duties, and announce that they intend to prevent the Legislature from exercising its constitutional responsibilities, they have, through words and conduct, demonstrated an intent to relinquish and abandon their offices.

The petition with the court was filed after the Texas House sued 33 House Democrats in Illinois. Soon after, the Texas House sued six Democrats in California. The lawsuits requested Illinois and California courts to domesticate Texas civil warrants in order for local authorities to arrest them and work with Texas law enforcement to return them to Texas, The Center Square reported.

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The 13 Democrats Paxton sued have yet to file their responses with the court.

The majority of House Democrats have refused to return to Austin to prevent a Congressional redistricting bill from being passed. On Tuesday, the House did not meet quorum again. The Texas Constitution and House Rules require a quorum to be met to pass bills. While the Texas Senate continued to meet and passed all bills on the special session call, the bills will go nowhere until a quorum is reached in the House.

Five House Democrats are needed to return for a quorum to be reached. Abbott is expected to call a second special session on Friday as the first special session is coming to a close.
As Texas lawmakers debate whether to regulate or ban THC products, officials with the states crime labs say they dont have the resources currently to enforce whatever law is passed.

From a crime lab perspective, mercifully, we dont have a dog in that fight. I really dont care. Just tell me what I need to test, and then I need resources to be able to provide that result, Peter Stout, president and chief executive officer for the Houston Forensic Science Center, told The Texas Tribune after he testified before the House Public Health Committee on Wednesday. Otherwise, I become the reason the wheel falls off this wagon, which has basically been the last six years now.

Wednesdays committee hearing centered on House Bill 5, which 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.

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Theres been countless reports of artificial and synthetic cannabinoids and their effects on the consumer, and these products have become readily available, said Rep. Gary VanDeaver, R-New Boston, the committees chair and HB 5s author. Some of these products are marketed in a way that is attractive to children, for example common food products, like candy.

The Senates version of the bill also calls for a ban, but since Gov. Greg Abbott earlier this year vetoed similar legislation that would have banned THC, some lawmakers have signaled theyd support more regulations over a ban.

Kim Carmichael, spokesperson for House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, told The Texas Tribune that the House hasnt committed to a ban.

HB 5 was filed as a similar bill to what the House passed in the regular session, because thats the most logical starting point for negotiations, Carmichael said. Since it passed in that form, members believed they should resume debate where it ended up. It would still go through the process of a public hearing and floor debate, so where it ends up is unknown at this time.

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Experts invited by lawmakers on Wednesday to talk about THC largely focused on the health dangers of THC, the possible criminal networks that underlie the industry, and the impossible task of enforcement.

Alice Amilhat, assistant chief of the crime laboratory division for the Texas Department of Public Safety, told lawmakers the DPS crime lab is equally overwhelmed with requests, and no matter what lawmakers decide, it will be an expensive process.

I dont have a financial statement for you, but if a ban goes through, the testing process will be easier, but the problem is we just dont know if the caseload will increase as well, she said. We dont know how many cases will come in, we dont know how many seizures, we dont know how much law enforcement will need our support.

Crime labs in Texas have found themselves in a no-win situation on how to regulate THC. If a ban goes through, testing will be relatively easy because all crime labs need to determine is if theres THC in the substance, but it will still mean more cases for them. Not banning, but regulating THC will also drive their caseloads up and the testing process can become more expensive and time-consuming if they have to spend time trying to detect permissible amounts of THC in substances. Both scenarios are unsustainable for crime labs, which are battling deadlier drugs, with the current resources they have.

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There are only 266 licensed drug chemists in the state, Stout told lawmakers. Im paying attention to fentanyl, and when you guys get it figured out (with THC), then I will invest in equipment and other stuff for testing.

Stout said crime labs across the state have backlogs on cases that reach hundreds to thousands deep, and compared to sexual assault and firearms cases, THC testing will be a lower priority.

Ive been pretty vocal that Ive not made the investments to test hemp in Houston at the scale that we probably would need to, because I cant keep up simply with the pills that have fentanyl, he told the Tribune. So yeah, Im going to prioritize the fentanyl before hemp, and every dollar I spend on testing drugs is a dollar I dont have to spend on testing a sexual assault kit.

DPS handles about half of the forensic work in the state, and municipal, county, or regional labs handle the rest. Each has its source of funding that can be inconsistent, but none of it is enough, according to crime labs.

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Stout said the average crime lab across the country gets around $600 in funding per case, when laboratories probably need $2,500 in funding per case to cover personnel, time, and equipment. He said that, beyond the money problem, the time-consuming nature of training is a concern, and there is no pool of licensed drug chemists waiting for a job.

We have under-resourced forensic laboratories for so long, there is no pipeline or workforce, he said. The people arent there, and the money is not there.

The ongoing challenges at crime labs have resulted in cases taking years to resolve. Crime labs have no control over their workload  whatever substance or case law enforcement decides to focus on will impact crime labs, whether they are ready for it or not.

Okay, guys, you also need me to answer you on that sexual assault kit and that homicide, which ones do you want me to do first? Stout said. Because we cant afford to do them all. Help me out here.

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Stout said crime labs need more money and time.

And I get that is exactly the wrong answer, that nobody wants to hear. They want to give us a big pot of money and go on to other things, but it doesnt work that way, he said.

More all-star speakers confirmed for The Texas Tribune Festival, Nov. 1315! This years lineup just got even more exciting with the addition of State Rep. Caroline Fairly, R-Amarillo; former United States Attorney General Eric Holder; Abby Phillip, anchor of CNN NewsNight; Aaron Reitz, 2026 Republican candidate for Texas Attorney General; and State Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin. Get your tickets today!

TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase.
This story has been updated to correct an inaccuracy. The headline was updated to provide clarity.

Gov. Mike Braun said he expects the Indiana University trustees will respond right away if allegations of plagiarism against President Pamela Whitten are proven to be true.

In early August, the Herald-Times reported that 85 consecutive words in Whittens 1996 doctoral dissertation appeared to be copied from another academic article  a more clear-cut instance of plagiarism than previous reports, several academic integrity experts said.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun holds a press conference on the fiscal year close-out statement at the Indiana Governors Mansion on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Indianapolis.

During an Aug. 12 press event, Braun said he was aware of the new allegations and expected the board of trustees to act quickly if the claims are found to be true.

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I would expect them to do the right thing, measuring whats happened in other places, Braun said. Id want to make sure that its true before taking any action.

Braun's comments significant given appointment power over IU trustees

Brauns call to action is particularly significant given his power over IUs board of trustees. Following a state law change this spring, the governor now holds complete discretion over who serves on the board. Since June, he has personally appointed six trustees to the nine-member board.

Indiana University President Pamela Whitten speaks during the Indiana University Board of Trustees meeting in the Henke Hall of Champions at Memorial Stadium at Indiana University - Bloomington on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

While he stopped short of endorsing specific board actions, Brauns comments seemed to suggest he was unsatisfied with the universitys initial response to the plagiarism allegation. IU had previously said that an independent law firm found allegations of wrongdoing against Whitten to be meritless, and did not respond to the Herald-Times request for comment in August.

Gov. Mike Braun speaks to a crowd Tuesday, July 29, 2025, during a press conference at Kenworth of Indianapolis.

I would expect any board to get on that right away, Braun said. Ive been a strong voice for accountability and transparency, regardless of where it occurs.

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Members of the IU board of trustees and IU spokesperson Mark Bode did not respond to a request for comment. The next regularly scheduled board of trustees meeting is on Thursday, Sep. 11 on the IU Indianapolis campus.

Reach Brian Rosenzweig at brian@heraldt.com. Follow him on X/Twitter at @brianwritesnews.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Braun tells Indiana University trustees to look at Whitten allegations
Victims of child sexual abuse linked to the Roman Catholic Baltimore Archdiocese will have a third chance to be seen and tell their stories.

On Monday, Judge Michelle Harner ordered a two-hour status conference for Oct. 6 at 1 p.m., meant to raise awareness of and understanding for sexual abuse victims of the Baltimore Archdiocese.

In February, a cyberattack on a law firm, Stinson LLP, representing Catholic Church sex abuse survivors, stole confidential data related to the Baltimore Archdioceses bankruptcy case and sex abuse survivors. A ransomware attack happened in March that affected a consulting firm for dozens of Catholic Church cases, including the same bankruptcy case.

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Both breaches included personal information of sexual abuse victims with claims against the Baltimore Archdiocese. Lawyers with the consulting firm have denied that information from the breach appeared online.

The Baltimore Archdiocese, Americas oldest Catholic archdiocese, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 ahead of the Maryland Child Victims Act becoming law. The act removed the statute of limitations for when child abuse victims can sue their perpetrators.

The bankruptcy filing was meant to limit liability for damages and conserve assets while lawsuits were readied and filed against the archdiocese.

The statements from the conference will not be considered evidence by the court, nor will it be part of the official record for the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. However, Harner said the conference gives victims of the archdiocese a chance to use the court setting as a platform to speak about their experiences before a decision is made on the case.

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The status conference is just that  an opportunity for Survivors to check in with the Court and, more importantly, the Debtor and other parties in this case and share their perspective, Judge Harner said in her memorandum opinion on the order. The status conference is not evidentiary in nature. No party will be testifying or offering evidence or legal argument. The Court will not be adjudicating any matters.

Two similar hearings took place in April and May 2024.

Have a news tip? Contact Chevall Pryce at cpryce@baltsun.com.
SPRINGFIELD, MoSpringfield returns home with a familiar face on the mound.

Brandt Thompson played for the Missouri State Bears in 2023 and 2024.

St. Louis picked him in the 17th round of the 24 MLB draft.

And he was promoted to Double AA Springfield on August 5th.

In our Cardinal Nation update, Thompson was back on the mound at Hammons starting against Wichita.

The 23-year old was a first team All-Valley player and becomes the sixth Bear to return to Springfield as a Double AA Cardinal.

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Gets some defensive help from Dakota Harris for an out in the second.

Then Thompson gets some offensive help in the bottom of the second when new Cardinal Zach Levenson takes this deep to right, over the

Drury sign and gone, a two run shot, his first for Springfield, its 2-0 Cardinals.

Wichita gets one back in the third, Jorel Ortega with the foul ball in right, Joshua Baez makes the catch, but he overthrows third base with his throw, allowing Ben Ross to score on the error its 2-1.

Thompson gets out of the inning by getting his first strikeout, of Kelen Culpepper.

But in the fourth, Thompson had to leave because of a blister.

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So Brandt Thompson goes three innings giving up one run on one hit and one strikeout.

And the Cardinals hold on and wins 4-2, thats six straight wins for Springfield.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Greece battled a dozen major wildfires on Wednesday, including one threatening its third-largest city Patras, as a heatwave stoked blazes and forced the evacuation of thousands in southern Europe.

Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, the Balkans and Britain have this week wilted in high temperatures that fuel wildfires and which scientists say human-induced climate change is intensifying.

- Greece -

Thousands of firefighters backed by the army deployed across Greece, with fire service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis saying "the situation remains difficult" for "forces waging a tough battle".

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"It's a cocktail of high temperatures, strong winds... and minimal humidity," the head of civil protection for Western Greece, Nikos Gyftakis, told public broadcaster ERT.

AFP journalists saw residents and firefighters backed by helicopters frantically attempt to douse flames in scrubland and forests outside Patras, with thick smoke reducing visibility.

Officials evacuated 12 children from a Patras hospital, Vathrakogiannis said. Eighty elderly people were removed from a retirement home, and local media footage showed the roof of a nearby 17th-century monastery ablaze.

Other fronts were burning on the popular Ionian tourist islands of Zante and Cephalonia and the Aegean island of Chios, scarred by a huge wildfire in June that ravaged more than 4,000 hectares.

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Around 20 villages were evacuated in the western Achaia region on Tuesday, while the Greek coastguard said nearly 80 people were removed from Chios and near Patras.

Vathrakogiannis said 71 people had received medical care, mostly in the western town of Preveza and the Patras area.

After Greece requested four water bombers from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to bolster its resources, the main opposition PASOK Socialist party questioned the conservative government's preparedness for fires that strike every year.

"A fully reformed civil protection system with an emphasis on prevention is required," PASOK said, identifying a poor coordination of forces and a lack of local emergency plans that made firefighting "extremely challenging".

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- Spain -

Wildfires dominated the news in Spain, where flames have threatened a world heritage Roman mining site in the northwestern region of Castile and Leon.

Regional authorities said almost 6,000 people from 26 localities had been evacuated from their homes, while seven people had been admitted to hospital for burns, including four in critical condition.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska said late Wednesday that Spain had asked the European Union for help, including the deployment of two water-bombing planes.

He urged European partners to deploy the planes quickly given "weather forecasts" that could worsen the blazes, telling broadcaster Cadena Ser radio that Spain would also request firefighter deployments if necessary.

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Bushy undergrowth and searing temperatures that have baked Spain for almost two weeks had created "the worst possible breeding ground for this situation", said Castile and Leon's civil protection head Irene Cortes.

A total of 199 wildfires have scorched nearly 98,784 hectares (244,100 acres) across Spain this year -- more than double the area burned during the same period in 2024.

- Portugal -

Neighbouring Portugal deployed more than 2,100 firefighters and 20 aircraft against five major blazes, with efforts focused on a fire in the central municipality of Trancoso that has raged since Saturday.

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Strong gusts of wind had rekindled flames overnight and threatened nearby villages, where television images showed locals volunteering to help firefighters under a thick cloud of smoke.

"It's scary... but we are always ready to help each other," a mask-wearing farmer told Sic Noticias television, holding a spade in his hand.

A separate fire in a mountainous zone of Arganil in central Portugal smothered several villages with smoke, prompting the evacuation of elderly residents in particular.

- Balkans -

Dozens of blazes stretched emergency services in the Balkans, where a severe drought and a prolonged heatwave have exacerbated the region's traditional fire season.

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An 80-year-old man died in Albania late Tuesday after he lost control of a fire he had started in his garden. The blaze quickly spread to neighbouring homes, injuring eight people.

Authorities have evacuated residents in parts of central and southern Albania, but easing weather conditions in neighbouring Montenegro helped firefighters protect homes.

The country mourned a soldier who died in a water truck overturn near the capital Podgorica on Tuesday, with the defence ministry speaking of a "heavy loss".

- Britain -

Historically temperate Britain sweated through its fourth heatwave of the summer, with the previously unthinkable prospect of wildfires now a real threat.

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A blaze in northern England's North York Moors national park was declared a "major incident" on Wednesday and covered around five square kilometres (nearly two square miles), firefighters said.

burs-imm/jph/js/phz
Credit: Norbert Buszewicz/Facebook/NorbasOnTour

Thousands were evacuated from areas of popular holiday islands in Greece on Wednesday as firefighters battled wildfires across the country.

Flames ravaged houses, farms and factories and forced evacuations of residents and tourists from the beaches of the popular tourist islands of Zakynthos and Cephalonia in the Ionian Sea, as hot and dry conditions stoked more than 150 wildfires across the country.

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Today, it will be another very difficult day, as the wildfire risk for most of the countrys regions will be very high, said Vassilis Vathrakogiannis, the fire brigade spokesman.

Nearly 5,000 fighters and 33 aircraft were deployed to contain the inferno near Patras, as about 7,700 people were evacuated from a nearby town. On the island of Chios, just off the coast of Turkey, the coast guard on Tuesday used boats to take people to safety as flames licked the shores.

Scores of people were rushed to hospital after suffering from smoke inhalation near the western city of Patras, Greeces third largest city, and some 13 firefighters were treated for burns, according to local reports.

A shocked resident reacts as a hill burns in the village of Tsoukalaiika near Patras city, western Greece - AP Photo/Andreas Alexopoulos

Firefighters, volunteers and residents of Amani in northwestern Chios fought the raging flames all night - Kostas Kourgias/EPA/Shutterstock

One volunteer firefighter compared the scenes to doomsday, as flames engulfed entire olive groves and forests and dark smoke plumes hung in the air.

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We cant do anything more. May God help us and help people here, said Giorgos Karavanis, who was working on the fire near Patras.

It comes as at least three people have died in a blistering heatwave that has swept across southern Europe and fuelled dozens of wildfires in Spain, Portugal, Turkey and the Balkans.

One man was killed by a fire on the outskirts of Madrid on Wednesday after suffering burns to 98 per cent of his body.

Pedro Sanchez, the countrys prime minister, said its rescue services are working tirelessly to extinguish the fires, as about 21 fires tore across the country, killing two people and incinerating nearly 25,000 hectares this week.

Credit: Hellenic Red Cross / Reuters

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It comes as Oscar Puente, Spains transport minister, and a close ally of Mr Sanchez, sparked a political row when he joked that things are getting a little hot in Castile and Leon, the two hardest hit regions.

The remark drew widespread criticism, even sparking calls for the prime minister to sack Mr Puente.

On Wednesday, El Pais, a popular Spanish paper, said: A country in shock deserves better than Minister Oscar Puentes frivolous comments on social media.

The political spat comes as Spain battles its 10th day of a heatwave that peaked on Tuesday with temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius, as experts warned it could stretch until Monday, making it one of the longest on record.

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The record heat has dried out vegetation, allowing wildfires to whip up mass destruction in what scientists have described as a molotov cocktail of climatic conditions.

A total of 165 firefighters, five ground teams, and 51 fire engines were operating in the Syhena area of Patras - Giota Lotsari/EPA/Shutterstock

A horse suffering from severe burn injuries caused by wildfires in Albania - Adnan Beci/AFP via Getty Images

Experts have projected extreme to very extreme conditions across the entire continent this week, and warned of significant risks to health as temperatures push above 40 degrees.

Almost three-quarters of France is under heat alerts, as its national weather monitor, Meteo-France, said the often remarkable, even unprecedented peak temperatures in affected regions were 12 degrees above the norm for the past few decades.

The heatwave in France risks having a knock-on effect on electricity prices after national energy utility EDF announced it has been forced to halt output for two days from its Bugey 3 reactor after high temperatures on the Rhone river threatened cooling operations.

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Hotter water is also thought to have fuelled jellyfish swarms that knocked out four French nuclear reactors this week.

EDF says it managed to restart one of the reactors at the Gravelines nuclear power plant in northern France  Western Europes largest  on Wednesday.

People were evacuated from their homes in Delvina, Albania, on Wednesday - Florion Goga/Reuters

But the three others remain shut down owing to large numbers of jellyfish that have become trapped in the filter drums of the seawater pumping stations used to cool the facilities.

EDF added that the reconnection of production units 2, 3 and 4 will take place gradually over the next few days.

Croatia also struggled as air temperature records soared to near 40 degrees in Sibenik and Dubrovnik, while raging forest fires tore along its coasts and neighbouring Balkan countries.

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There have been reports that British tourists are increasingly rethinking classic summer destinations, as heatwaves regularly topping 40 degrees disrupt holiday plans, coinciding with school holidays.

Some 9 per cent of European travellers have changed the months they travel due to the threat of increasing extreme weather events, according to a study conducted in July by the European Travel Commission.

Families are increasingly choosing to holiday in the off-peak season, between September and November.

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.
Thousands of A-level and AS students across Wales are set to find out their results on Thursday morning, following a drop in top grades in 2024.

Last year most extra support measures for students were dropped as part of a move away from previous changes to exams to reflect the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2024, 29.9% of pupils got A* and A grades, down from 34% in 2023, but ministers said that was to be expected.

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Results can be shared with students from 08:00 BST, but arrangements vary depending on the school or college.

Results for the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and some vocational qualifications, including BTecs, will also be released on Thursday.

Many students will need confirmation of grades to secure university offers and can usually get updated information about their places from 08:00.

A-level students can start collecting their results from Thursday morning [Getty Images]

Identical twins Adrian and ukasz Kolman from Newport have always had similar interests - taking the same A-level subjects and studying together for exams.

Now they are both waiting for results in maths, further maths, computer science and physics.

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The exams were "stressful", according to Adrian.

"We were studying the same things so at least we had each other to help out on what we didn't know and what we didn't understand sometimes."

Ahead of results ukasz said he felt "nervous but also kind of excited".

"I'm really looking forward to seeing what I get but also I need to make sure that I have the results I need for my university," he added.

Both have been offered places to study electronics and electrical engineering - Adrian at Bristol University and ukasz a short distance away at Bath University.

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"We spend a lot of time together since we've shared the same room for all our lives pretty much. It's nice to go out there and be a bit more individual," said ukasz.

Ngaire has an unconditional university offer but is looking forward to celebrating with friends on results day [Ngaire Gape]

Some BTec students will also get confirmation of their final results - though some have already been published, depending on the course.

Ngaire Gape, 19, from Cardiff, already has a clear idea of how she has done in her art and design BTec, and has secured a place to study performance design at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

She said she enjoyed studying the more practical, coursework-based qualification.

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"I've really thrived with being able to do a BTec and it's let me explore things that I don't think I would have if I'd stayed on in school," Ngaire said.

She is now looking forward to her degree which will include working on set costumes, props and puppetry.

After disruption to exams due to Covid, lasting until 2024 when all extra support measures were dropped, Qualifications Wales kept a "safety net" when setting grade boundaries if performance in a subject was far lower than pre-pandemic levels.

This year, that has been removed and grade boundaries in some subjects are likely to be higher.

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The exams watchdog has said "outcomes should be broadly similar" to those before the pandemic, if performance continues to improve after the disruption caused by Covid.

The head of Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas) has said a record number of 18-year-olds are likely to get in to their first choice of university this year, even if they narrowly miss their grades.

Dr Jo Saxton said universities were keen to enrol UK undergraduates because there was more "uncertainty" around international student numbers.

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The clearing process, offering places on courses which still have space, is also available for students who do not get their grades or who change their minds.

The latest Ucas data said 32.5% of Welsh 18-year-olds had applied to university by the end of June, compared to 41.2% across the UK.

On a visit to engineering and manufacturing company Boccard on Deeside, Wales' Skills Minister Jack Sargeant spoke to apprentices about other education routes.

Beau Tattersall, 19, said he started his apprenticeship "with no experience at all".

"I've been learning to weld and fabricate and everything I need to do in a workshop.

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"I did two years in college back in Pembrokeshire but I decided I wanted to be earning and learning at the same time so that's why I went for apprenticeship. It's going really well," he said.

Apprentice Lawrence Coleman says through "trial and error" he has found a job he loves [BBC]

Lawrence Coleman, 20, said there had already been "a few stressful moments" in his career so far.

"This wasn't actually my first option... but I came through and ended up signing up in college. You've got to have an open mind to it all."

Careers Wales said there were plenty of options available to young people who may be unsure about what to do next.

Adviser Catrin Owen said alternatives to university were to "take a break, go into work or you can look at things like apprenticeships".

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She added: "We are seeing more higher level apprenticeships now - degree-level apprenticeships, which are great options for some young people.

"It's really important that you sit down with a professional who can go through everything with you to make sure you're making the best decision that suits you."
Three children have been charged with the murder of a man who was found dead on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 14 and 15, were arrested following an altercation in Leysdown-on-Sea on Sunday night.

Alexander Cashford, 49, from Kent, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

A 12-year-old girl was also arrested in connection with the incident on Tuesday in Basildon, Essex, and remains in custody.

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The trio, who are all from London, have been charged with murder by joint venture.

They have been remanded in custody to appear before Medway Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

They cannot legally be named due to their age.

Kent Police said it was continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward [UKNIP]

Police said Mr Cashford was assaulted following a disturbance involving a small group of people in the Warden Bay Road area, close to Jetty Road, at 19:00 BST on Sunday.

He sustained "multiple injuries" to his body, a police spokesperson added.

A car was seized by officers as part of the investigation.

Kevin McKenna, MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey, previously said he was "deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic incident".

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Kent Police said it was continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone who has information or who has CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact the force.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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The Jalandhar Commissionerate Police has dismantled a multi-layered narcotics and arms smuggling network, arresting five people and seizing 1.5 kg of heroin and seven illegal weapons. Punjab Police DGP, in a post on X, said, "In a major breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking and illegal arms, Jalandhar Commissionerate Police busts a multi-layered narcotics-arms smuggling network. Five persons apprehended and recovers a total of 1.5 Kg heroin and seven weapons from their possession. The arrests have dealt a major blow to drug-arms smugglers in the region, preventing further distribution of narcotics and curbing illegal arms circulation. @PunjabPoliceInd remains committed to eliminating the drug menace and keeping Punjab safe." Earlier on Tuesday, Counter-Intelligence, Jalandhar, in a joint operation with SBS Nagar Police, busted a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror network allegedly run by foreign-based handlers Mannu Agwan, Gopi Nawashehria and Zeeshan Akhtar, on the directions of Pakistan-based BKI operative Harwinder Rinda. Police said the network was backed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Five operatives were arrested from Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan, preventing planned attacks. According to police, the module had recently planned an attack on a liquor store in SBS Nagar and had been tasked to attempt more attacks on Independence Day. The accused were receiving instructions from Zeeshan Akhtar and BKI mastermind Mannu Agwan, who is working in close coordination with Harwinder Rinda. During the operation, one suspect was injured in an exchange of fire while being taken for recovery. Police said he opened fire on them and was injured in retaliatory action. He is being treated at Civil Hospital, SBS Nagar. An FIR has been registered at PS City Nawashehar, SBS Nagar, under relevant sections of the BNS and the Explosive Substances Act. Police recovered one 86P hand grenade, one .30 bore pistol, two live cartridges, and two empty shells of .30 bore during the operation. Punjab Police said it remains committed to neutralising terror networks and ensuring peace and public safety in the state. (ANI)
WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (ABC4)  A home in West Valley City caught fire early Wednesday morning, leaving three people displaced.

Shortly after 2 a.m., crews with the West Valley City Fire Department responded to a house fire in the area of 3500 South and 3200 West.

Crews respond to a house fire in West Valley Wednesday morning. (Courtesy//UDOT)

According to Scott Hall, a Battalion Chief with the West Valley City Fire Department, crews arrived to the home being engulfed in flames. It took just 20 minutes for crews to extinguish the blaze. However, the home was a total loss.

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The homes three residents were able to make it out unharmed before any significant damage was done. Hall also told ABC4 that no firefighters were injured during the incident.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but is under investigation.

Latest headlines:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Three prisoners have been recalled to jail for every four freed this year following Labours launch of its early release scheme.

Some 13,296 offenders were freed from prison in the first three months of this year while 10,101 were recalled either for committing further crimes or breaching their licence conditions, according to Ministry of Justice (MoJ) data.

The number of prisoners recalled represented a 36 per cent increase on the previous year with MoJ statisticians citing the introduction of the Governments early release scheme last September as a factor.

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Under the current Labour system, prisoners serving sentences for less serious crimes can be freed after serving 40 per cent of their jail terms, instead of the previous 50 per cent.

As a result they spend longer in the community, giving them more time to offend or breach their licence.

Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of those recalled faced a charge of further offending. Three quarters failed to comply with their licence.

These included 34 per cent who failed to keep in touch with probation, and 22 per cent who broke rules requiring them to reside at an approved address. In many cases there was more than one reason for a recall.

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The statisticians also suggested that a rule change which allowed recalled offenders to spend 14 days back in jail before being re-released could also account for the increase.

The number of recalled prisoners in England and Wales has doubled in the past decade, to 13,000, and they now account for one in seven, or nearly 15 per cent, of the jail population.

The trend has been cited as one of the main causes of the prison overcrowding crisis, with only 1,000 places available in the mens estate at the start of August.

The figures come as the Government considers proposals in the sentencing review by David Gauke, the former Tory justice secretary, to raise the threshold at which probation officers decide to recall offenders.

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Such a move is backed by Martin Jones, chief inspector of probation, who said that too many low-risk offenders were being automatically recalled to jail by probation officers, whether for a low-level offence or minor infringements of their licence.

He said their underlying problems  such as drugs or drink  would not be tackled by sitting in a prison cell waiting, potentially for months, for the outcome of a new court hearing into their offence.

Mr Jones believed, instead, there should be the option for the offenders to continue to be handled in the community for the underpinning causes of their criminality pending the outcome of any further court hearings.

The judge or magistrates could still decide to remand them into custody or release them on bail before determining whether to hand them a prison or community sentence, he said.

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We can probably find an approach here, where, of course, if you think somebodys at risk of committing a serious domestic abuse or a sexual or violent event, immediate recall to custody would be justified, but for other offenders, you could allow the usual judicial process to take its course, said Mr Jones.

Trying to get the decision right in the community will enable us to make better use of the limited number of prison places we have.

MoJ data show there were 37,573 recalls of ex-prisoners for reoffending or breaching their licence in 2024, up 35 per cent on the 27,820 in 2023. Of these, a quarter (9,114) committed further crimes in breach of their licences, a 21 per cent rise on the 7,510 in 2023.

The MoJ said the 13,296 figure included those released from custody for the first time, but not those re-released after recall.

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Sir Keir Starmer has blamed the previous government for the prisons crisis, saying: We have to release people early because otherwise well have an absolute crisis in our prisons.

A MoJ spokesman said: This Government inherited prisons days from collapse, and had no choice but to take decisive action to stop our prisons overflowing.

Public protection is our number one priority. That is why an offender out on licence faces strict conditions such as exclusion zones and being tagged, and they will be brought back to prison if they break these rules.

To make sure we never run out of prison places again, we are building 14,000 prison places and reforming sentencing so our jails reduce reoffending, cut crime, and keep victims safe, part of the Plan for Change.

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EXCLUSIVE: Three new states have signed agreements of varying intensity and substance, with one governor 1,700 miles away from Mexico saying his is effectively a "border state" due to its major fentanyl crisis.

On Wednesday, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey will announce one of the most wide-ranging agreements a state has forged with ICE yet, enlisting the West Virginia State Police, Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation and National Guard to aid immigration enforcement through the "287(g)" authority heralded by President Donald Trump.

West Virginia has long ranked among the states with the highest rates of drug-related deaths, a crisis that Morrisey says underscores the need to work with ICE to combat fentanyl trafficking.

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"Under the Biden administration, millions of people poured into our country unlawfully and we had no knowledge about who they were, or whether they were a threat to our nation," Morrisey told Fox News Digital ahead of his expected Wednesday mid-morning announcement in Parkersburg.

Wy Governor Greenlights State Troopers To Join Ice In Immigration Crackdown

It is unclear when the suspect arrived in the U.S., or how he got into the country.

"West Virginia became an effective border state due to the massive fentanyl problem caused by illegal immigration," he said.

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The National Guard and state police will have "task force" authority to interrogate any person believed to be an illegal immigrant as to his right to remain in the U.S.  under the supervision or direction of the feds.

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Officers will be able to process immigration-related violations for those arrested for state or federal offenses, and can also make warrantless arrests of any illegal immigrant in the officers "presence or view" if that person is believed to be a flight risk in the interim of obtaining a warrant.

Morrisey also authorized state law enforcement to serve immigration warrants, administer oaths and collect evidence for "required alien processing," including fingerprints and suspect interviews.

Unlike some other states, West Virginia law enforcement will also be able to issue immigration detainers, prepare documents for approval from federal ICE officers and arrest felonious aliens who have the penchant to escape.

West Virginia Division of Corrections will be permitted to hold immigrants on detainer, so long as the actions fall under federal auspices.

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Corrections officers will be able to follow the federal "warrant officer model," which includes serving warrants for immigration violations in jails and transferring custody to the feds.

Farther west, South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden recently announced cooperation with ICE to a lesser extent with his "Operation Prairie Thunder" public safety crackdown.

Rhoden, who rose to the governorship upon the departure of now-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, announced earlier this month that Operation Prairie Thunder would be a "comprehensive, targeted public safety initiative" in the state  with a focus on the Sioux Falls metro area.

The anti-crime effort seeks to interdict drugs, probe gang activity and "deter lawlessness."

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Texas Bill Requiring Sheriffs To Collaborate With Ice Given Initial Approval By State House

It includes a "comprehensive effort to support the work of [ICE], secure our borders and deport illegal alien criminals," according to a statement.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol will be able to assist ICE, and six South Dakota National Guard soldiers will be tasked with helping the agency with administrative functions.

"Our work alongside ICE boils down to this: Highway Patrol will support ICE with arrests," Rhoden said.

"The National Guard will support ICE with processing and administrative functions. And DOC will support ICE with transportation, identifying illegal immigrants in our prisons, and getting them paroled to ICE custody."

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In Arkansas, a state law took effect this week that increases penalties for illegal immigrants committing "serious felonies involving violence," among other stipulations.

The "Defense Against Criminal Illegals Act," signed by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, also allowed Arkansas sheriffs to engage with ICE.

It allows law enforcement to apply via 287(g) to be authorized to serve immigration warrants on illegal immigrants already in custody for other offenses.

Arkansas State Police will go beyond the minimum cooperation required by the law, according to the Arkansas Times.

Cops will be able to stop people in public and ask them their immigration status  and potentially arrest suspected violators.

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A spokeswoman for the state police told the outlet that troopers must undergo training before any can work in an immigration-related capacity.

The regimen includes a 40-hour online course laying out officers "scope of authority, immigration law, civil rights law, cross-cultural issues, liability issues, complaint procedures and obligations under federal law," the spokeswoman said.

Sanders credited Trump with making border security a top priority and obtaining results.

"The Defense Against Criminal Illegals Act makes it clear: Arkansas will not tolerate violent, criminal illegals and will do our part to help the Trump administration keep our citizens safe," the former Trump press secretary said in a statement.

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Those states join Florida and Wyoming, the first two to sign substantive 287(g) agreements with ICE.





Original article source: Three states sign new agreements with ICE for expanded immigration enforcement operations
We first told you last night about the Toronto Film Festival uninviting Barry Avrichs October 7th documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, about Israeli Defense General Noam Tibon and his mission to save his family who were surrounded by Hamas during its attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023.

On Wednesday afternoon, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey has responded.

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I want to be clear: claims that the film was rejected due to censorship are unequivocally false, he wrote in a letter addressed to members of the TIFF community. I remain committed to working with the filmmaker to meet TIFFs screening requirements to allow the film to be screened at this years festival. I have asked our legal team to work with the filmmaker on considering all options available.

Read the letter in full below.

As Deadline reported yesterday, asks were made of the filmmakers by the festival as conditions to be included in the Documentary lineup of this years festival, which runs September 4-14. The production team believed they complied with most of the asks. TIFF didnt feel all requirements were met, including clearance of footage.

The filmmakers, in response to the docu being withdrawn, told Deadline that We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this film.

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TIFF is fearless about their programming choices, particularly when it comes to documentaries, and Bailey championed The Road Between Us, we understand. The documentary is about sensitive topic in the Israeli-Palestine conflict.

This afternoon, Bailey in his letter acknowledged the concerns that the decision has raised among members of the Jewish community and beyond.

Given the sensitive and significant nature of the films subject, I believe that it tells an important story and contributes to the rich tapestry of perspectives in our lineup  stories that resonate both here at home and around the world, Bailey writes.

The situation with The Road Between Us is a bit deja vu: Last year TIFF had the antiwar documentary Russians at War which stirred up the Ukrainian community in addition to Canadas Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. After TIFF staff received reported threats over the docus programming, the fest paused screenings, only to screen Russian at War days following the end of the festival. Security was present at screenings, and TIFF held screenings at time when Toronto has fewer tourists and fest attendees.

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Heres Baileys letter:

Dear Members of the TIFF Community,



I want to take a moment to address recent reports regarding the documentary film The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue. This situation calls for compassion and sensitivity, and I recognize the concerns it has raised among members of the Jewish community and beyond.



First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere apologies for any pain this situation may have caused. It was never my intention to offend or alienate anyone. At TIFF, we believe in the transformative power of film to foster understanding and dialogue, especially during challenging times.



My intention was to screen The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, which is why I extended the invitation for the film to participate in this years festival. Given the sensitive and significant nature of the films subject, I believe that it tells an important story and contributes to the rich tapestry of perspectives in our lineup  stories that resonate both here at home and around the world.



I want to be clear: claims that the film was rejected due to censorship are unequivocally false. I remain committed to working with the filmmaker to meet TIFFs screening requirements to allow the film to be screened at this years festival. I have asked our legal team to work with the filmmaker on considering all options available.



The events of October 7, 2023 and the ongoing suffering in Gaza weigh heavily on us, underscoring the urgent need for compassion amid rising antisemitism and Islamophobia. While we are not a political organization, TIFF will always strive to present our programming in a safe, inclusive environment.



I ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this complex landscape. Thank you for your continued support. It is my great hope that this years Festival will be a celebration of these values, and the power film holds to bring people together.



Sincerely,



Cameron Bailey

CEO, TIFF

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Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey is denying claims of censorship after the fest pulled Barry Avrichs Oct. 7 documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue from its lineup.

The film follows grandfather and retired Israeli general Noam Tibon as he rescues his family from Hamas terrorists invading their home during the Oct. 7, 2023 massacre.

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News that the film would no longer screen at TIFF was revealed in a Tuesday story from Deadline, with the festival providing a statement to the outlet indicating the film was withdrawn by TIFF because general requirements for inclusion in the festival, and conditions that were requested when the film was initially invited, were not met, including legal clearance of all footage. The purpose of the requested conditions was to protect TIFF from legal implications and to allow TIFF to manage and mitigate anticipated and known risks around the screening of a film about highly sensitive subject matter, including potential threat of significant disruption.

In response, The Road Between Us filmmaking team slammed the festivals decision in a statement to Variety: We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this film. Ultimately, film is an art form that stimulates debate from every perspective that can both entertain us and make us uncomfortable. A film festival lays out the feast and the audience decides what they will or wont see. We are not political filmmakers, nor are we activists; we are storytellers. We remain defiant, we will release the film, and we invite audiences, broadcasters, and streamers to make up their own mind, once they have seen it.

On Wednesday afternoon, Bailey said in a statement to Variety that this situation calls for compassion and sensitivity, and I recognize the concerns it has raised among members of the Jewish community and beyond. 

Bailey goes on to apologize for any pain this situation may have caused, adding, My intention was to screen The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, which is why I extended the invitation for the film to participate in this years festival. Given the sensitive and significant nature of the films subject, I believe that it tells an important story and contributes to the rich tapestry of perspectives in our lineup  stories that resonate both here at home and around the world. 

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He elaborates on the reason for pulling the film and indicates a possible path forward for the project at TIFF, continuing, I want to be clear: claims that the film was rejected due to censorship are unequivocally false. I remain committed to working with the filmmaker to meet TIFFs screening requirements to allow the film to be screened at this years festival. I have asked our legal team to work with the filmmaker on considering all options available.



Bailey concluded the statement by asking for patience and understanding as we navigate this complex landscape, adding, The events of October 7, 2023 and the ongoing suffering in Gaza weigh heavily on us, underscoring the urgent need for compassion amid rising antisemitism and Islamophobia. While we are not a political organization, TIFF will always strive to present our programming in a safe, inclusive environment.

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The Toronto International Film Festival rescinded its invitation to screen Canadian filmmaker Barry Avrichs The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue documentary about the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks in Israel, according to media reports.

The invitation for the Canadian documentary film The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue was withdrawn by TIFF because general requirements for inclusion in the Festival, and conditions that were requested when the film was initially invited, were not met, including legal clearance of all footage, TIFF said in a Wednesday statement to Screen Daily.

More from TheWrap

The purpose of the requested conditions was to protect TIFF from legal implications and to allow TIFF to manage and mitigate anticipated and known risks around the screening of a film about highly sensitive subject matter, including potential threat of significant disruption, the statement continued. As per our terms and conditions for participation in the Festival, TIFF may disqualify from participation in the Festival any Film that TIFF determines in its sole and absolute discretion would not be in TIFFs best interest to include in the Festival.

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The Road Between Us was notably not featured in the initial 2025 documentary line-up for next months festival. The film follows retired Israel Defense Forces General Noam Tibon as he tries to save his two granddaughters from the 2023 terrorist attacks, helping multiple survivors of the Nova Music Festival massacre and wounded IDF soldiers in the process.

We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this film, the filmmakers told Deadline on Tuesday. Ultimately, film is an art form that stimulates debate from every perspective that can both entertain us and make us uncomfortable. A film festival lays out the feast and the audience decides what they will or wont see. We are not political filmmakers, nor are we activists; we are storytellers. We remain defiant, we will release the film and we invite audiences, broadcasters and streamers to make up their own mind, once they have seen it.

In response, the Creative Community for Peace issued the following statement, urging TIFF to reverse its decision:

The Toronto International Film Festivals decision to pull The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue from this years festival is deeply disturbing. They are choosing to censor a Jewish story of survival and attempting to erase the experiences of survivors of the worst attack on Jews since the Holocaust.

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This decision is part of a growing trend of silencing Jewish and Israeli voices under the excuse of security concerns. Rather than standing up to violent intimidation and protecting filmmakers, TIFF is rewarding those who threaten their lives. TIFFs claim that the issue is clearance for Hamas-filmed footage is absurd. Does anyone believe Hamas would authorize use of evidence of its own war crimes? This is a pretext to bow to threats, protecting those who make them rather than those targeted by them.

By silencing this film, TIFF abandons artistic freedom and sends the chilling message that some victims stories matter more than others. We call on TIFF to reverse its decision and stand for the principles it claims to uphold: artistic freedom, courage and the right for every story to be told.

TheWrap has reached out to TIFF for further comment.

The 2025 Toronto International Film Festival is set to run Sept. 4-14.

The post TIFF Pulls Oct. 7 Doc The Road Between Us From Festival Over Hamas Footage Clearance appeared first on TheWrap.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Time is running out for you to get a free tree to help restore Music Citys tree canopy.

Root Nashville is giving away three free trees to Nashville homeowners. Since its start, the group has helped plant more than 50,000 trees; their goal is 500,000 by the year 2050.

Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More

The group is offering a variety of trees to choose from, including the Southern Magnolia, Persimmon, Black Gum, and Canada Red Chokecherry.

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They said much of their inventory has been claimedexcept for bald cypress trees.

According to Root Nashville, not many people are familiar with bald cypresses, but the trees are perfect for Nashvilles climate.

Many neighborhoods in Nashville currently have a tree deficit, and Root Nashville would like to see more people in those neighborhoods take advantage of the campaign.

Columbia celebrates grand reopening of fire hall after renovations, expansion

Those areas are Madison, South Nashville, and North Nashville, Jason Sprouls, Urban Forestry Program Manager told News 2. We always want people in those area to order more trees to make the largest impact as far as closing some of the disparities where our canopy coverage is located in the city.

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The deadline to register for the free trees is Aug. 31. Root Nashville volunteers will plant them in the fall.

Do you have news happening in your neighborhood? Let us know by sending an email to neighborhoodnews@wkrn.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 WKRN News 2.
President Donald Trump has been unable to negotiate a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, despite vowing to end the war on Day One of his second term. Hes hoping a highly anticipated sit-down with Russian President Vladimir Putin will help change that.

Trump is meeting with Putin face-to-face in Alaska on Friday, the first confab between the two leaders in Trumps second term. The US president has met with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky several times  including a wildly tense public confrontation in February  spoken to both leaders by phone and sent top envoys to help negotiate a ceasefire agreement. Still, Trump and other foreign leaders have said it doesnt seem like Putin is interested in peace, as the war has dragged on for more than three years.

While Trump often speaks of his very good relationship with Putin, its proving to take more than a phone call, threatening new sanctions or calling the Russian president absolutely CRAZY to get him to change course in Ukraine.

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With that in mind, Trump and White House officials have been trying to temper expectations ahead of Friday, saying its not up to him to make a deal. Still, the meeting marks a more aggressive pressure campaign on Putin, as Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with the Russian leader.

Heres a look at some of the major developments that led to this historic meeting:

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Aug. 12ROCHESTER  A tip on the Spotted in Rochester social media page and a pair of plastic safety glasses might have netted a suspect in a string of burglaries and thefts from safes and ATMs.

Jason Daniel Krukow, 47, of Pine Island, was released on bond from the Olmsted County Adult Detention Center after being booked on charges relating to one such burglary and attempted theft of an ATM and theft of a truck he allegedly used to try to steal the ATM.

Krukow faces multiple charges for an April 7, 2025, burglary in Byron, Minnesota. That morning, a grocery store employee reporting for work at about 5:30 a.m. found an ATM lying on the ground from the bank next door. The door to the ATM was bent and broken and the safe inside the ATM was exposed, damaged, and the dial was missing, but it was still secure.

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Video from the scene showed someone spray-painting an external bank camera and the internal ATM camera at about 4:12 a.m. However, a portion of the video was still visible, and a company logo on the side of the truck could be seen. Video showed a person wrapping a chain or strap around the ATM and then using the truck to try to drive away with the ATM before leaving at about 4:17 a.m. A pair of plastic safety glasses was found at the scene.

Deputies had the glasses tested for DNA evidence to see if they matched Krukow.

Krukow was identified as a suspect in similar crimes in the region, thanks in part to an appeal from business owners on the Facebook page Spotted in Rochester.

According to search warrants filed in Olmsted County District Court, the owners of Whistle Binkies by the Lake took to social media to share pictures of a suspicious man following a break-in at the restaurant March 5, in which the restaurant's ATM in the foyer was damaged but the cash inside was intact.

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The owners of the business took to social media to show footage of a man who, over a few weeks, would come into the business during regular hours on Tuesdays around 5:50 p.m. and linger near the ATM in the foyer.

Someone on Spotted in Rochester identified the man as Krukow. Investigators were able to get a search warrant for Krukow's DNA.

With a suspect name and possible evidence carrying DNA, investigators linked Krukow to the April 7 incident in Byron to charge him with three counts of felony damage to property and a felony count of theft of a motor vehicle.

Search warrants show Krukow is suspected in multiple burglaries and thefts and attempted thefts from ATMs and safes in the region.

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In multiple requests for searches of Krukow's property and electronic devices, investigators mention multiple burglaries since March.

Some of the burglaries mentioned in the search warrants include:

* March 31, 2025, Rochester Police responded to a burglary at Chip Shots, where a circular saw was used to break into an ATM.

* March 18, 2025, an ATM was stolen from Zen Fusion, 2043 Superior Drive NW. The machine was later found in Faribault, Minnesota.

* April 11, 2025, an ATM at Alerus Bank, 2048 Superior Drive NW, was vandalized with black spray paint and other damage. No money was taken.

* April 13, 2025, a pickup truck was stolen from Rochester Sand and Gravel. A person on an e-bike was seen canvassing the area.

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* April 17, 2025, Rochester Police responded to a burglary at the Purple Goat and adjoining Haley Comfort Systems at the 3700 block of North Broadway. A suspect fled on something that appeared to be an e-bike.

* April 25, 2025, someone broke into The Pondy Bar in Mazeppa, Minnesota, smashed pull-tab machines, used a saw to open an ATM, and removed cash from registers.

* May 24, 2025, surveillance footage showed someone trying to get into an ATM at a bank in Prescott, Wisconsin.

* May 26, 2025, a burglary and an attempted entry into an ATM were reported at Security State Bank in Wanamingo, Minnesota.
U.S. Senator Ashley Moody will host a news conference Wednesday in Orlando.

Moody will be joined by Orange County Sheriff John Mina and local first responders to discuss the passage of the Graham Hoffman Act.

The Graham Hoffman Act, recently cosponsored by Senator Moody, seeks to strengthen legal measures against individuals who assault first responders, utilizing both state and federal laws to prosecute offenders.

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The legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic who tragically lost his life after being attacked by a known criminal while on duty earlier this year.

The news conference is planned for 3 p.m. at the Orange County Sheriffs Office.

Channel 9 will have a crew at the event and provide updates on Eyewitness News.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha on Wednesday accused the Election Commission of being "a tool" in the hands of those who decide what the election results will be." He said the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, has laid bare how more than one Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number is being created for the same voter to manipulate the voter list. "The election results are being controlled by someone else. The Election Commission has merely become a tool in the hands of those who decide what the election results will be," Jha told ANI. "The awakening of people in a democracy is welcome... The Leader of Opposition has laid bare, layer by layer, how EPIC numbers are being created," he said. Earlier in the day, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav alleged that the EC is working with the Bharatiya Janata Party to manipulate the voter list in Bihar by issuing two EPIC numbers to its leaders and workers. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, Yadav stated, "Before we had talked about Bihar's deputy chief minister, Vijay Sinha. Now you call it a crime, a mistake, or an expose, we had said it before too, but today I want to tell you that EC is helping the BJP, and cutting the votes of the Opposition. The people of the BJP are being given not one, but two EPIC numbers for themselves, in one Vidhan Sabha only." "We are exposing one more thing. Muzzafapur's mayor, a BJP leader named Nirmala Devi, has two EPIC IDs in the same Vidhan Sabha. In that, too, they are different. Not only this, but Nirmala Devi has two brothers-in-law; they also have two EPIC numbers," he added. The RJD leader further alleged that the names of people from other states were being added to Bihar's voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) ahead of the assembly elections. "Now the people of Gujarat are becoming voters of Bihar. Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya, who is in charge of the BJP, has become a voter of Patna. He cast his last vote in Gujarat in 2024, but he is still a voter of Patna. He had his name deleted in Gujarat, but it's worth noting that it hasn't been five years, and you started changing places and voting. When the Bihar elections are over, then where will he go after getting his name deleted?" Yadav alleged. He claimed that in earlier elections, the BJP used agencies such as the CBI, ED and Income Tax department against the Opposition, but when those methods became less effective, the Election Commission was "brought forward." He also alleged that "vote chori" took place in the 2020 Bihar elections. (ANI)
Todd Spessard - WXIA

Todd Spessard will be the director of content for Atlanta NBC affiliate WXIA, beginning September 3.

Spessard will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of news operations at the station, including content development, talent acquisition, and editorial guidance.

Before joining WXIA, Spessard was the news director at WCNC, Tegna's NBC affiliate in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Todd brings forward-thinking leadership that will drive our efforts to expand our digital presence, said Kristie Gonzales, president and general manager at WXIA. His strategic vision will help us deliver content across all our platforms that furthers our mission to tell stories and share solutions that make life better for Atlanta.

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Before serving as news director at WCNC, he acted as vice president of content at Griffin Media in Oklahoma City, where he spearheaded content development and media strategy across all company properties and platforms.

His career includes leadership positions at KWTV in Oklahoma City, KOKI and KJRH in Tulsa, KSNW in Wichita, and KMIZ in Columbia, Missouri. He also served as a producer at WDAF in Kansas City and WOOD in Grand Rapids. Spessard began his career as an anchor and producer at KHGI in Kearney, Nebraska.

Im excited to join the talented team at 11Alive, said Spessard. After three decades in this business, I know how important it is to connect with viewers, whether on broadcast TV or streaming. I'm looking forward to working with the team in Atlanta to build on what they have already accomplished and find new ways to serve the community.
So far, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has done nothing about the pesticides in our foods, the microplastics in our blood or the sugary sodas that are fattening up our kids.

But last week, he took some time to cripple the most promising line of vaccine research on the face of the earth by cutting $500 million from labs examining mRNA vaccines, the kind that saved millions of lives during the COVID pandemic and has potential to protect against many more diseases, including some cancers. The man is a kook, and well get to that.

Whats striking, though, is the sheer foolishness behind this move. Bird flu presents a serious risk of another pandemic and another mRNA vaccine could save the day. Why kill that chance?

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Sometimes, I think we should set aside all arguments about ideology, and talk about nothing but the incompetence of Trump and his motley collection of misfits.

A few examples:

ON WHIMS AND WIND

You can make a rational argument that America needs to increase its tariffs. But it makes no sense to create global chaos by basing those rates on presidential whims that no investor can anticipate. Why build a factory in this environment when you have no clue whats coming next?

Another: No one disputes that the federal government wastes money. But why bring in Elon Musk and his crew of cocky interns to find it, when they had no experience in government to draw on? Why did Trump fire 19 inspectors general whose job is to find waste, who are deeply embedded in their departments, and who saved us more than $50 billion last year alone?

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And a fresh one, from just last week: Why is Trump moving to sabotage wind and solar projects across the country at a time when demand for electricity is booming? It was one thing to end the subsidies signed into law by President Biden, but that wasnt enough for Trump. Now hes blocking permits, cancelling projects that already had approval, even opening investigations into bird deaths caused by wind farms  as if they give a damn about birds. (The National Audubon Society warns that climate change presents a far greater threat to birds, anyway.)

The delays and reversals are creating uncertainty that is gutting efforts to finance these projects  a kiss of death. And the tax credits Biden offered to all forms of clean energy can still be claimed by nuclear and geothermal projects  but not wind and solar.

Theyre essentially making projects almost impossible to move forward, said Barbara Kates-Garnick, a professor at Tufts University and former undersecretary of energy in Massachusetts.

What sense does that make? Is the policy driven entirely by a desire to tweak the libs?

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These actions are so extreme that one can only hope that they reconsider once they see the impacts, says Jason Grumet of the American Clean Power Association.

CALL HIM CRAZY

Kennedys decision on mRNA research falls into its own category of crazy. The COVID vaccine was developed during the pandemic under Operation Warp Speed, Trumps biggest success during his first term. The Nobel Prize-winning mRNA vaccine outperformed all the others, and researchers said the COVID breakthrough was only a start, that unlocking the mysteries of mRNA might protect us from a range of diseases, like influenza and AIDs  even some types of cancer.

Now Kennedy is driving that research into a ditch, a decision he made after purging all 17 experts on the committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control on vaccine policy.

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It is really the next generation that will suffer the most, Dr. Katalin Kariko, who won the 2023 Nobel Prize for her mRNA research at University of Pennsylvania, told CNN. When we have the next pandemic other countries will have to help us out.

Im no scientist, but you dont need an advanced degree to see that Kennedy is a flat-out nut job. He said the COVID vaccine was designed to spare Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese people, that invisible beams from 5G networks allow the government to control people and that John Kerry was the true winner of the 2004 presidential election. He was 60 years old when he picked up a dead bear on a roadside and discarded it in Central Park.

TRUE, BUT LITTLE COMFORT

But the cabinet member who should worry us most is Pete Hegseth, the secretary of defense and former Fox News host who now runs the worlds most powerful military machine. Who can forget the day he spelled out the details of the plan to bomb Yemen on an unprotected Signal chat that included the editor of the Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg? That could have gotten our pilots killed, but Hegseths response was to lash out at Goldberg, who didnt do a single thing wrong.

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Mind-boggling incompetence, said a flabbergasted David Brooks, the New York Times columnist, on PBSs Newshour. Democrats should talk about nothing but Trump incompetence.

As a political matter, Brooks is onto something. But that brings little comfort. Were on a roller coaster ride and the maintenance crew is a gang of misfits. This is scary.

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.
Aug. 13The halls of area schools will soon be filled with the sound of slamming lockers, ringing bells and raucous students. Tiffany Viel's office will be filled by some of those same students looking for help just trying to cope with the day.

Viel is a licensed clinical counselor for Ohio. This will be her 14th doing mental health services in schools.

"It's always busiest at the beginning of the school year," Viel said. "Students have been in a world all their own."

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For mental health professionals such as Viel, the start of the school comes with an increased caseload as students and their families adjust to new stresses.

A 2023 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that emergency department visits by children age 10 to 17 for mental and behavioral health conditions increased an average of 54% between summer and fall each year from 2018 to 2023.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 32% of people age 13 to 18 experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime.

Viel said students come to her at the start of the school year with a wide variety of concerns, from deep fears of being friendless to the seemingly simple worry of not being able to find their way around a new building.

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"It can be the little things that sets a kid off," she said.

All cases are handled with the ultimate goal of not trying to stop anxiety, but to teach the students to cope with it.

Increased caseloads at the start of the school year aren't limited to those professionals in a school setting.

Dr. Steve Liptak as been working with students and families for 34 years. He's been a child psychologist with Premier Health's Upper Valley Outpatient Behavioral Health since 1998.

Each year he sees the same concerns come through his door as soon as the first school bell rings.

What will my classes be like? Will my friends be in my class? Will the other students like me? All the unknowns that come with the start of something new.

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"Every year, we always see an increase," Liptak said. "It's a transition time. What is anxiety? It's a fear of the unknown."

Liptak said he's seen a "leveling off" in the influx of patients that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks in part to the growth of telehealth. According to a 2022 study by the National Center of Education Statistics, 69% of public schools reported an increase in the number of students seeking metal health services as a result of the pandemic.

What Liptak said he does continue to see is a "dramatic" rise in the number of young adults working through issues stemming from social media.

"All of that has been magnified with social media," he said. "This has become a huge extra level of stress for students and parents."

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Students he works with are spending six to 10 hours a day in front a screen outside of whatever they're doing for school.

Increased anxiety during back to school isn't limited to the students, he said.

"Some of these families, I've had the conversation for five years," he said.

His advice to parents: a strong commitment to being a leader to their kid, and stifling the rescue instinct.

Children will take their cues from their caregiver's emotional state, he said. So it the parent seems nervous about back to school, so will the student.

"If you want to manage your child's anxiety, start with your own," Dr. Liptak said.

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Dr. Carly Schweier is a pediatric psychologist with Dayton Children's Hospital whose work centers around abused and neglected children between the ages of 4 and 22.

She said referrals start increasing as schools open their doors, in part because there are more people watching the children.

"During the summer, kids aren't necessarily seen by mandatory reporters," Schweier said.

Teachers, school resource officers and guidance counselors are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to authorities such as county health agencies or law enforcement.

Anxiety and depression can manifest in a lot of different ways, she said. Her advice to caregivers is to keep an open dialogue with their children and take changes in behaviors seriously.

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"Even if it seems silly to us as a parent, it's important to them," Schweier said.

Extreme depression can lead a child to think about suicide or plan for suicide, according to the Center for Disease Control. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people age 10 to 34.

Intentional self-harm was the top inpatient diagnosis at Dayton Children's Hospital in 2023.

------

7 tips to dealing with back-to-school anxiety

1. Get back into routines before school starts and start limiting screen time a few weeks before the first day of school.

2. Check in with stress levels  parents and children alike.

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3. Listen to your children and validate their thoughts and feelings.

4. Prepare for what you can  anxiety thrives in uncertainty.

5. Create a "cope ahead" plan. Think of way for a child to envision how they can react to something that makes them anxious at school.

6. Talk to school mental health professionals, especially if a child has significant anxiety or a mental health diagnosis.

7. Blend back to school with fun activities.

Source: Anxiety and Depression Association of America
A top cancer specialist left the US and returned to his native China in the wake of President Donald Trumps funding cuts, part of a wider exodus of scientific talent.

Feng Gensheng of the University of California San Diego moved to North America in the 1980s and is a world expert in tumor immunology. Beijing has been keen to attract diaspora researchers back to China since before Trumps second term  scientists are offered financial incentives, and the number returning tripled between 2010 and 2021  but funding cuts appear to have accelerated the process.

European and Australian universities are also keen to attract US researchers whose funding streams are threatened: Health and climate funding initiatives have been particularly badly hit.
Aug. 12 (UPI) -- Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced Tuesday that he will attend the memorial of Colombian Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay, who died this week from gunshot injuries he sustained in June while campaigning against the country's left-wing president.

The State Department announced Tuesday that Landau was traveling to Bogota to attend the memorial service for Uribe, a conservative politician who died from his injuries after being shot in the head during a campaign event in June. Landau's visit comes as tensions between the United States and Colombia are high as the Trump administration has taken a more confrontational posture in Latin America.

Speaking on Donald Trump Jr.'s Triggered podcast on Monday, Landau said his attendance at Uribe's funeral showed "our intense concern" about what he called the growing assassination attempts of right-wing candidates in multiple countries.

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"You can't have democracy if basically anybody who's right of center becomes a subject of assassination attempts or outright assassination," Landau said.

Landau said Uribe was killed while speaking out against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who was formerly a Marxist guerrilla.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is traveling to Colombia for the Wednesday funeral of Senator Miguel Uribe, as the U.S. sees heightened tensions with Colombian President Gustavo Petro (pictured). File Photo by Peter Foley/UPI

"There is not a single piece of evidence in the investigation that even suggests that the government is responsible for the murder of Senator Miguel Uribe," Petro said in a post on X Tuesday, suggesting the killing was being politicized.

Petro has publicly clashed with President Donald Trump. He initially refused to take a deportation flight early in Trump's second term and spoke out against what he said was possible U.S. military intervention in neighboring Venezuela.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is traveling to Colombia for the Wednesday funeral of Senator Miguel Uribe, as the United States sees heightened tensions with Colombian President Gustavo Petro (pictured). File Photo by Oliver Contreras/UPI

Colombian authorities have arrested six people in connection to Uribe's death but have not identified a gunman or a motive, according to The New York Times.

Landau said the Trump administration was taking renewed interest in "our own backyard," taking a more aggressive approach to drug cartels in Mexico and against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who won a third term last year amid widespread allegations of fraud. The Trump administration is offering a $50 million reward for the arrest and conviction of Maduro for alleged involvement in drug trafficking.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Topekas governing body voted Tuesday to reject a request to rezone a west Topeka property to allow the construction of a new gas station and convenience store.

Maverik had considered building a truck stop at 605 Southwest Fairlawn Road at the site of the old Holidome Ramada West Hotel. It requested the city rezone the property to allow for the construction of a 5,900-square-foot convenience store with 10 fueling stations for passenger vehicles, five for semi trucks and a truck scale.

In May, Topekas planning commission voted to approve its proposal. But in July, Topekas city council voted to send the issue back to the planning commission following an outpouring of concern from the public about traffic safety. The planning commission again approved request to rezone the property to allow for the construction of convenience store and gas station, but not for a truck stop.

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Topekas governing board took up the issue for a final time on Tuesday. It voted 9-1 to reject the proposal entirely, with Councilman David Banks voting against.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  The Topeka Fire Department is working on extinguishing a fire in central Topeka.

The TFD is at a house that was fully engulfed in flames in the 1100 block of Southwest Garfield. The fire department has been battling the fire for over an hour. The fire is near the Lowman Hill Elementary School and has shut down the road in front of the school.

A 27 News reporter says the fire department has a hose stretched from the house to a fire hydrant around the street corner. He says houses on either side of the fire appear scorched. The Topeka Fire Department said they had to deal with two non-functional fire hydrants.

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A local man, Michael Cowan, saw the blaze and went into the home to rescue two older people inside.

When I opened the door up it was engulfed inside in flames and they were in there, so I pulled them out, Cowan said.

Councilman Marcus Miller discusses Hotel Topeka deals

Photo by Tim Schoepflin. Photo by Tim Schoepflin.

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.
Tory Lanez performs at DAER Nightclub on June 4, 2021. - Credit: Johnny Nunez/Getty Images

As Tory Lanez serves his 10-year prison sentence for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in both feet back in July 2020, the rapper has been pursuing multiple avenues to try to overturn his conviction.

On Tuesday, an appellate court in California denied a pair of so-called writ of habeas corpus petitions that he filed in 2023 and 2024 to invalidate the jurys verdict based on issues or evidence not presented during the trial. (Lanezs separate direct appeal, which is based on what Los Angeles County jurors did hear during his December 2022 trial, is still pending with oral arguments set for Monday.)

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In their rulings issued Tuesday, the same three-judge panel with Californias Second District Court of Appeal said Lanezs piecemeal claims didnt meet the requirements for habeas relief. In one petition, Lanez, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson, alleged that the firearm recovered in the case had been misplaced and is currently missing, depriving him of access. The judges said that simply wasnt so. They pointed to a sworn statement from an LAPD officer that confirmed that the firearm, its magazine, and all the bullets and fragments collected as evidence remained in police custody.

The judges further noted that Peterson failed to request further DNA testing in the trial court, and that he also failed to explain how any further testing could prove his innocence. And if Peterson was referring to the bullet fragments that surgeons removed from the victims feet, they noted that those are unlikely to have usable fingerprints or DNA.

At trial, experts on both sides agreed that police testing of the magazine showed none of Petersons DNA was present. They also agreed that testing of the gun itself was inconclusive, meaning it could neither exclude nor include Peterson as a minor contributor to the DNA found on the firearm. Jurors heard that and still decided to convict Peterson based on testimony from Megan, a neighbor who witnessed the shooting, and a recorded statement from Megans former best friend, Kelsey Harris, who was with Megan when the shooting took place on a residential street after a party in the Hollywood Hills.

In their second ruling Tuesday, the appellate tribunal also denied Petersons habeas petition related to alleged new testimony in the case. In that effort, Peterson and his lawyers claimed they had an affidavit from Petersons driver, Jauquan Smith, in which Smith alleged he saw the gun in Harris hands before the shooting. Smith did not see who fired the gun, but according to Peterson and his lawyers, the statement supported the defense argument that Harris shot Megan. The same habeas petition also added claims that a bodyguard named Bradlie James overheard Harris confess that she fired the gun. (Harris testified at trial and denied firing the gun. She also gave a recorded statement to prosecutors in which she corroborated Megans account that Peterson was the triggerman.)

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In their ruling, the judges said the trial transcript confirmed that Peterson and his lawyer affirmatively decided not to call Mr. Smith as a witness at trial on Dec. 21, 2022. They said Peterson also forfeited his right to invoke Smiths statements after failing to raise them at sentencing. In any event, the claims are without merit, the judges said in their written decision.

Regarding Bradlie James, the judges called that argument untimely, saying the affidavit was dated Aug. 28, 2024, but it wasnt submitted to the court until many months later. The judges said Peterson had failed to justify the piecemeal presentation of his habeas claims.

Petersons legal team did not respond to Rolling Stones request for comment sent Tuesday. Theyre expected to address the court in person on Monday regarding their claims Peterson did not receive a fair trial.

In his direct appeal, Peterson claims the judge who oversaw his 2022 trial erred when he allowed jurors to hear certain evidence, including testimony from Megan about the emotional impact of the shooting and its aftermath. Peterson also claims his trial lawyer gave him ineffective counsel by failing to properly object to Megans testimony. And Peterson alleges prosecutors also engaged in misconduct when they recounted Megans testimony in their closing arguments and suggested Lanez attempted to bribe witnesses. Prosecutors dispute that claim.

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At Petersons closely watched trial, Megan gave three hours of harrowing testimony in which she recalled Peterson yelling dance bitch as he fired at her feet. The chief resident of orthopedic surgery at Cedars Sinai Medical Center walked jurors through X-rays showing Megans gunshot wounds on both of her lower extremities. He said doctors identified four metallic bullet fragments embedded in her feet and removed what they could during emergency surgery. A man who witnessed the shooting testified that he saw a very agitated man firing everywhere.

Peterson, 33, is currently serving his prison term at the California Mens Colony in San Luis Obispo, California. He was moved to the new location after he was stabbed by a fellow inmate at a different state prison in Tehachapi in May.

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A young tourist was left injured after riding a banana boat at a popular beach in Mallorca.

The 19-year-old Bulgarian woman was found lying face down in the water at Magaluf beach by lifeguards following a trip out on the marine ride, the Majorca Daily Bulletin reports.

The boats  where people sit on a banana-shaped inflatable as they are towed into the sea  are available at many beachside resorts across the island.

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The accident occurred at around 7.30pm on Monday evening, the newspaper said. The company that was running the water activity contacted local lifeguards after the accident.

After finding the woman, emergency services brought her aboard a support boat to provide immediate care.

She was reportedly suffering from intense neck pain, appeared disoriented and had swallowed a large amount of water.

The team stabilised her using a spinal board before carrying her ashore. The woman was transported to Clinica Rotger hospital nearby for further medical examination.

Magaluf beach is popular with tourists for its large hotel resorts and vibrant nightlife.

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A similar incident occurred in Magaluf in 2022, after another young woman suffered a severe blow to her lower back after falling from a banana boat.

A picture of a banana boat off the coast of Turkey (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A similar incident hit the headlines back in 2018, after a British mother died after being thrown off a banana boat at an Egyptian resort.

The inflatable had flipped, but when the woman was pulled aboard the speed boat and CPR was performed, she could not be saved.

Thomas Cook confirmed at the time that it was one of their customers who died while on the excursion and offered support to the womans family.

The Independent has contacted the Calvia Tourism Board in Mallorca for comment.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
A town board meeting in New York quickly derailed after officials denied a motion to stop ICE officers from using a rifle range in the community.

Shouts of Shame! could be heard after the ruling during the board meeting on Tuesday in the town of Islip, on Long Island, while another person can be seen approaching the members, telling them, You should be embarrassed, truly.

Officials had heard passionate pleas from residents who wanted to end a contract that allows ICE officers to train at their local rifle range.

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News of ICEs use of the rifle range first made headlines in July. The Towns Rifle Range is one of the very few such facilities on Long Island and serves a vital role in the training of individuals from law enforcement agencies including but not limited to Nassau County Police, Sheriffs and DA  U.S. Treasury, Farmingdale Police Department and the NYS Park Police, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter, a Republican, told the New York Post at the time.

ICE, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency that is run by Homeland Security, has used the Islip rifle range since 2008 for long firearms qualification training and has authorization to continue using the facility until June next year.

Following public backlash, Islip officials released a statement to counter misinformation and clarify that the rifle range has been used for training by law enforcement agencies for over 20 years. It continued, Those attempting to politicize this matter are unnecessarily causing more distrust of our Law Enforcement agencies, especially in communities that are already vulnerable and underreporting crimes.

Islip Councilman Jorge Guadrons resolution wanted access to the rifle range for ICE officers suspended until the town board could determine community concerns over the conduct of ICE officers had been adequately addressed.

Islip council meeting erupts after ICE decision. / You Tube

Guadron noted during the meeting the fear, trauma, and destabilization of immigrant families and local businesses and wanted to safeguard the mental integrity and well-being of the constituents of the town.

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When the motion to pass his resolution failed at the end of the lengthy meeting, residents shouted Wow! You truly are so awful! and Shame on you! at the councilors, before authorities stepped in to defuse the situation.

Prior to the rejection of the resolution, a string of residents explained how brutal ICE agent thugs were terrorizing our community, and said the city was taking ICE blood money by letting them rent the range.

Islip, N.Y.: The Islip Rifle & Pistol Range in Islip, New York has a contact with ICE agents to use the facility for training. / Newsday LLC / Newsday via Getty Images

A Latino resident said, Its telling that Councilman Guadron, the only Latino elected to this board, is also the only one advocating to keep all residents safe, not just those with privilege.

The Town of Islip website notes of the El Savador-born Guadron, as an immigrant who has worked hard to realize the American Dream for himself and his family, Guadron is convinced that everyones American Dream starts in their hometown.

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One resident, aged 80, said at the meeting, ICE is a different kind of entity than any of the police agencies that we know here. They dont have identification. They are masked. They are swathed. You dont know who they are. They could be anybody.

ICE agents have had an increased presence in the town of Islip, NY. / Courtesy of Islip Forward

She continued, This is fascism. That is what we are witnessing. And if we dont speak out now, we wont be able to speak out later. Please end the contract with Homeland Security for ICE to train on this range.

Another woman compared ICE to the Nazi regime, stating, Some of the people being picked up by ICE here have been here for 10, 20, or 30 years and have been reporting regularly for their immigration appointments. Theyre not rapists and murderers. Theyre students, landscapers, cleaning ladies, and even a bagel store manager. Theyve committed no crimes.

One resident said, It breaks my heart to see people have sold themselves out to this kind of regime, while another called them the American Gestapo.

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The Daily Beast has contacted Councilman Guadron, Supervisor Angie Carpenter, and Homeland Security for comment.

On Sunday, around 150 people attended the Ice Out of Islip protest, after ICE agents were seen training on the towns rifle range last month.

Not all were in favor of the resolution, however. I voted for Trump. I want Trump, said another resident. I want him to get rid of the illegal immigrants in this country. The man waved photos of houses near him that he claimed were packed with people, before saying when he grew up in the 1960s Spanish wasnt taught in schools.
The Koratagere police have arrested three people in connection with the murder of Lakshmi Devamma (42) of Bellavi in Tumkuru taluk. The arrested include Lakshmi Devamma's son-in-law, informed the District Superintendent of Police, Ashok K Venkat. "Lakshmi Devamma was forcing her to use her daughter for immoral activities. Initial investigation has revealed that Ramachandra, fed up with this, had hatched a conspiracy to kill her," informed DSP Venkat to ANI. On August 3, Lakshmi Devamma had gone to her house in Kuvempu Nagar, Tumkur, to see her daughter. On August 7, some body parts were found near Chimpuganahalli in Holavanahalli hobli, Madhyavenkatapura in Kolal hobli and Bendone village in Channarayanadurga hobli. The head and clothes were found in a decomposed state near Sidharth Hill on the same day. A case was registered at the Bellavi police station on August 4 regarding the disappearance of Lakshmi Devamma. Her family members were called and questioned. Finding the accused was a challenge as her body parts were dumped in 18 places. Eight teams were deployed to investigate the case. The team informed that Satish and KS Kiran of Hallahalli village in Tumkur taluk and Dr Ramachandraiah of Kuvempu Nagar, a prominent accused in Tumkur, have been arrested. Devamma had murdered her and dumped her body parts in various places so that no one would suspect her. Ramachandra was not seen at the time of identifying the deceased. He had gone on a trip to Dharmasthala after the murder. This was a reason for suspicion. The accused are being detained in Dharmasthala and are being interrogated, he said. (ANI)
(NewsNation)  Thirty-five Union Pacific train cars derailed Tuesday afternoon about two miles east of Gordon in Palo Pinto County, Texas, igniting a grass fire but causing no injuries, officials said.

The derailment occurred at approximately 2 p.m. over the Coalville Road Bridge, according to Union Pacific and Palo Pinto County Emergency Services District 1.

Multiple freight and tanker cars were left on their sides in a pile-up, with smoke visible from the scene.

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The Palo Pinto Fire Department responded to contain the grass fire, while additional Union Pacific crews were en route to the scene.

Fire officials said they were proceeding with caution as the incident was being treated as a hazardous materials situation.

However, Palo Pinto County ESD1 reported that no cars were leaking contents, and no evacuations had been ordered.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Georgia Gov. Kemp and the states majority conservative legislature passed a bill that prohibits incarcerated transgender people from receiving access to hormone therapy and other treatments used to address gender dysphoria. (Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post/Getty Images)

This story was originally reported by Candice Norwood of The 19th. Meet Candice and read more of her reporting on gender, politics and policy.

A group of incarcerated transgender women and men have sued Georgia corrections officials, challenging a new law that prevents them from receiving gender-affirming medical care.

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The lawsuit, filed Friday morning, accuses the state of violating the Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.

Five transgender plaintiffs  two men and three women  brought the class action on behalf of nearly 300 other people in Georgia state prisons, who argue that the states law will have catastrophic consequences. In some cases it is forcing trans people who have already received hormone replacement therapy and other services for years to detransition without their consent.

We are very much in the thick of seeing policies like this be adopted, said Chinyere Ezie, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Constitutional Rights, which brought the lawsuit with co-counsel Bondurant Mixson & Elmore LLP.

Its really unfortunate, I think that it has and will cost peoples lives. I think that the plan is to really just eradicate trans people from public life, to really  contrary to medicine  make the treatment of gender dysphoria a culture war, as opposed to a serious medical need that requires treatment.

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In May, Gov. Brian Kemp, a Republican, signed SB 185, a bill passed by the states majority conservative legislature that prohibits the use of state funds or resources for surgery, hormone replacement therapy, cosmetic procedures, and other treatments used to address gender dysphoria.

The law states explicitly that incarcerated people may still receive treatments like hormone replacement therapy if they are medically necessary for conditions other than gender dysphoria.

Ezie told The 19th that the bills sponsors indicated during hearings that incarcerated trans people would not be allowed to pay for treatment themselves, either. Her team has also heard this from their clients, she said. The 19th reached out to the Georgia Department of Corrections to confirm whether incarcerated trans people can pay for these procedures themselves.

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Senate Bill 185 prohibits the use of state funds or resources for the following treatments for state inmates: A. Sex reassignment surgeries or any other surgical procedures that are performed for the purpose of altering primary or secondary sexual characteristics; B. Hormone replacement therapies; and C. Cosmetic procedures or prosthetics intended to alter the appearance of primary or secondary sexual characteristics, wrote Joan Heath, the departments director of communications.

Thus, the GDC cannot use state resources to transport an offender to be seen by a provider paid for at their own expense, nor allow a provider being paid by an offender to treat such offender at a GDC facility, she continued.

Consequences

The legal complaint includes details about the plaintiffs, who described the effects of being cut off from their gender-affirming medical care. One trans woman named Fantasia Horton, incarcerated in Phillips State Prison, had been receiving hormone therapy since 2019 but was completely cut off following the law, despite being told that her dosages would gradually decrease before ending, according to the Center.

Due to Defendants policies and actions in terminating her treatment, Ms. Horton is now at grave risk of physical and psychological harm, the complaint states. Three years ago, after losing access to hormone therapy for just one week after her prisons supply of hormone therapy was temporarily depleted, Ms. Hortons mental health plummeted and her depressive symptoms returned.

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Gender dysphoria is a condition recognized by medical journals and professionals. It is defined as the sense of discomfort or anxiety a person feels when their physical gender feels out of sync with their gender identity. This can lead to long-term mental health effects, including periods of depression and thoughts or acts of self-harm.

Forced detransition due to anti-trans legislation, coupled with the poor conditions and discrimination that incarcerated trans people often experience, can worsen these mental health consequences. From a physical standpoint, doctors recommend that any termination of hormone replacement therapy takes place gradually over three to six months, rather than cold turkey.

Taking away individuals access to gender-affirming therapies while in prison constitutes cruel and unusual punishment and increases the likelihood of abuse and detrimental health consequences.

 Jan T. Mooney, psychologist

Taking away individuals access to gender-affirming therapies while in prison constitutes cruel and unusual punishment and increases the likelihood of abuse and detrimental health consequences, Jan T. Mooney, an Atlanta psychologist, and Mark Spencer, an Atlanta-area internal medicine physician, wrote in an April column about the Georgia bill.

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Abrupt cessation or forced weaning of medically necessary, ongoing treatment is a health risk. Physical effects of hormone withdrawal are accompanied by psychological distress, which may manifest as anxiety, depression, and suicidality, they continued.

Precedents

The class action comes 10 years after Ezie first sued over another ban on gender-affirming care in Georgia prisons. In that case, Ashley Diamond, a Black transgender woman, sued the Georgia Department of Corrections in 2015 after being held in mens prisons and denied hormone treatments.

The case drew attention from the U.S. Department of Justice, which said at the time that blanket policies barring hormone therapy violate the Eighth Amendment because they do not provide for individualized assessment and treatment.

Diamond won an undisclosed settlement in 2016, and her case prompted policy changes in Georgia meant to facilitate better treatment of incarcerated transgender people. But six years later, Diamond sued again, asserting that the state failed to provide her adequate health care or protect her from sexual assault after a second incarceration. Ultimately, Diamond dropped that lawsuit to protect her mental health, according to her lawyers.

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To see the same issues come up again in 2025 feels like being in a time machine going back in time, said Ezie, who represented Diamond 10 years ago.

I think that is a feeling thats shared by many trans rights activists, Ezie said. It feels like, rather than seeing a forward march of progress when it comes to securing basic rights and basic dignity for transgender people, we are now fighting to hold on to very basic legal wins that you know we achieved, at times, decades ago.

Ezie and the legal team at the Center for Constitutional Rights hope the courts overturn Georgias law, as they have in other similar cases. For example, Wisconsin enacted a law in 2005 that barred prison doctors from providing hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgery to incarcerated transgender people in state custody. But a federal court ruled that denying this medical care constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.

Another state-level class action in Colorado resulted in a negotiated settlement agreement between the state and the Department of Corrections requiring an overhaul of how it houses incarcerated transgender women and provides medical care to all trans people behind bars.

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If the Center for Constitutional Rights is successful in Georgia, Ezie anticipates that there will still be a long road ahead in the effort to challenge anti-trans legislation and policies.

Were going to continue to use the courts, were going to continue to organize, were going to continue to  as we did prior to the passage of this bill  lobby against bills like this that seek to cause so much preventable harm, she said. This is why we fight.

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The military community in San Diego has deep roots and a rich legacy of service. Now, theres a small fraction of those in uniform who are being told they can no longer represent the country, and their next steps are unclear.

More than 100,000 active duty personnel are based in San Diego County, with around half of those at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, according to its website. That is where Sye Savoie is currently based. They are a Marine Corps captain, currently within Wounded Warrior Battalion West, and have served for seven years.

They also identify as nonbinary, under the transgender umbrella. I realized that [about myself] circa 2020, so about two years after I commissioned as an officer, Savoie told NBC San Diego.

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However, it was much earlier in life, growing up in a Catholic community in Atlanta that Savoie set their sights on being a Marine.

A lot of the people in my community were Marines. Whether it was people I went to church with or people that were, like, running for city council and they were revered by the population, Savoie said. Not only were they revered, it was with good reason. These folks were kind, empathetic, strong, powerful leaders that also led with a graceful hand and I saw that the way my parents and my community turned to them in times of trouble, or for advice, and I wanted to be that rock and that touchstone for my community.

Savoie shared that they started having conversations with the Marines in their circle and one warned them of the obstacles they would face, at the time, as a woman.

My uncle was in the Army for a while, and he knew one of the sergeant majors of the Marine Corps, so when I met with that guy, I was maybe 16 or 17 years old, and we had a really powerful conversation after a church service, and he looked at me, and he said, Just so you know, being a female in the Marine Corps is going to be the hardest thing you ever do, Savoie recalled. Unfortunately, the joke's on him in that having a gender dysphoria diagnosis and being in the Marine Corps has been the hardest thing Ive had to do.

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Savoie told NBC San Diego they chose to be transparent about their identity with their fellow Marines when they first transitioned because they felt comfortable doing so, especially during former President Joe Bidens time in office. However, when President Donald Trump was inaugurated for his second term in January of this year, that quickly changed.

Marine Corps Captain Sye Savoie. (NBC San Diego)

On Jan. 27, Trump announced an executive order titled Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness. It states that, expressing a false 'gender identity' divergent from an individuals sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service. The order then continues to say, beyond the hormonal and surgical medical interventions involved, adoption of a gender identity inconsistent with an individuals sex conflicts with a soldiers commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle, even in ones personal life.

On May 6, after a court challenge, the Supreme Court granted the Trump Administration the ability to move forward with the order. That same day, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, delivered a keynote speech at Special Operations Forces Week 2025, that was clipped and posted in a public video on the verified X account for DOD Rapid Response, and said, We are leaving wokeness and weakness behind. No more pronouns. No more climate-change obsession. No more emergency vaccine mandates. No more dudes in dresses.

The following week, on May 15, a memo was sent to every branch of the military from the U.S. Department of Defense that stated that all transgender personnel would need to self-identify and begin a voluntary leave process by Jun. 6 for active duty and Jul. 7 for those in the reserves. A transcript posted on the DODs website on the same day, that cited a Senior Defense Official without listing their name, explained that those who chose to leave would be compensated based on rank as well as time in service.

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The DOD transcript explained further, that all transgender personnel who leave because of this will receive some benefits, but that it is greater for those who start the process on their own accord.

So, for involuntary category separation, an E-5 with 10 years of service, we estimate that that involuntary separation payment would be just under $51,000. For an O-3 with seven years in service that involuntary separation pay would be approximately $62,000. The way the voluntary separation pay is calculated is a multiple of two from the involuntary, so that E-5 with 10 years would be approximately $101,000 and the O-3 with seven years in service would be approximately $125,000, the transcript said.

On Aug. 7, however, it was reported by NBC News that the Air Force is denying early retirement to all transgender service members with between 15 and 18 years of military service, opting instead to force them out with no retirement benefits, according to a memo seen by Reuters.

The DOD transcript also explained that, for those that elect not to voluntarily participate, the primary means of identification for the involuntary process will be through medical readiness programs. Individual medical readiness programs are a long-standing program and policy in the department. They are not new. They are not tied specifically to the implementation of this policy.

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Savoie told NBC San Diego they chose to stay, and not begin that voluntary separation process, as an act of resistance.

Theres a lot of reasons to that, Savoie said. I dont have dependents that are specifically banking on me having a paycheck. I know youre probably familiar with the buyout option that they gave, so double what your normal separation pay would be. For me, to be transparent with you, that was about $100,000, so a significant chunk of income. Thats about a years worth of income for me; it wasnt worth it.

I didnt commission to make the easy choice, and in this position, when youre faced with choices like these, are you going to make them on principle or are you going to make them on what the easy way out is. Thats not everyones scenario, but it is for me, Savoie continued. I should caveat and say anyone whos taking this right now is under duress. Like it is a forced thing and, again, it does not come without risk. We dont know what theyre going to do to us right now.

Savoie said they do have concerns for the future, including which separation code will be used for them if they are forced to leave the Marines and how that could impact their future employment opportunities.

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NBC San Diego reached out to Savoies command and the public affairs team for the USMC Manpower and Reserve Affairs office for more information on their status, as well as the status of other transgender servicemembers. They forwarded the request to the Pentagon, where the on-duty public affairs officer referred NBC San Diego to the department's May 15 transcript.

When it comes to how many servicemembers, including Savoie, may be impacted by Trump's executive order, in that transcript, the unnamed senior defense official said, the Department has cited a previous study that estimated approximately 4,200 service members with gender dysphoria. I have not seen a more recent study the department is relying on. So, that would be the most recent study that we would rely on. And of course, that may not be current as of today because service members are entering and departing service in the normal course of events all the time.

Savoie echoed that, saying theres not great numbers on how many transgender people are in the military."

"From the communities that I am a part of and my experience working and connecting with other trans service members, I would guesstimate theres maybe seven or eight transgender officers in the Marine Corps," they said. "Some of those I know are not out right now and others, they fly under the radar. Others are taking the retirement and just kind of want to gracefully exit because theyve already done their part and theyve had to fight their fights under the first ban, and theyre tired.

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If it were up to Savoie  who has continues to show up for work each day, unsure of what comes next  they said they would serve until their EAS, or end of active service, in 2028.

This story first appeared on NBC San Diego.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that a Lowcountry school district cannot bar a ninth-grade transgender student from using the bathroom corresponding to his gender identity while an appeal plays out.

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals granted a preliminary injunction pending appeal in a 13-year-old transgender boys lawsuit challenging a South Carolina budget rule that restricts school districts from allowing students to use accommodations that do not match their biological sex. An explanation of its reasoning was not available at the time of publication.

All students deserve to feel safe and supported in school, including my son, the students father said in a statement to News 2. This is a first step in securing that for not only my son, but all trans kids experiencing similar discrimination.

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While it never should have come down to a lawsuit to fight against such dehumanization and ignorance, we will keep fighting through the legal system until all kids feel safe showing up to school as they are, he added.

The rule, which initially went into effect as a temporary measure in last years fiscal budget, was carried over into the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget and states that school districts could lose 25% of their state operational funding if they fail to comply.

Every student should be treated with kindness and respect, State Superintendent Ellen Weaver said in an Aug. 13 statement. South Carolinas commonsense policy is grounded in objective, biological reality and protects the privacy and safety of all students, especially our vulnerable young women. I will never stop fighting to defend their rights and dignity.

The lawsuit  filed last November on behalf of a student identified as John Doe  argued the policy directly conflicts with federal Title IX regulations, which bar sex discrimination in federally funded education programs, and violates the Equal Protection Clause in the U.S. Constitution.

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The student claimed he was threatened with expulsion if he continued to use the boys bathroom. The Alliance for Full Acceptance, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group, also joined the lawsuit, which named the state, the Berkeley County School District, and the South Carolina Department of Education as defendants.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the South Carolina Department of Education said it is currently weighing its legal options and working with the attorney generals office to determine next steps.

This injunction from the 4th Circuit applies only to one individual, the statement read. All other South Carolina schools remain bound by current law. We expect the U.S. Supreme Court to settle this question once and for all next year.

A BCSD spokesperson told News 2 in a statement that the district was aware of the ruling and awaiting further guidance.

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We are awaiting the full decision from the court and will continue to evaluate and comply with our legal obligations while the case continues, the spokesperson said.

Doe was assigned female at birth but presented as a boy from an early age and self-identifies as a male, according to the initial complaint.

The complaint states that Doe began to face harassment from his peers regarding his gender identity due to the school districts monitoring of Johns restroom usage. His parents chose to withdraw him from school last September to avoid further harassment, and he participated in an online education program for the remainder of the year.

In a separate July filing, Does attorneys asked for an expedited ruling in the case before the districts Aug. 13 start date.

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While the court denied expediting the appeal, Does attorneys said he has been re-enrolled in the district to begin ninth grade.

South Carolinas school bathroom ban is illegal, plain and simple, said Alexandra Brodsky, the Litigation Director of the Students Civil Rights Project at Public Justice, a nonprofit legal advocacy group.

We are so thrilled that our client will be able to start high school this week without state-mandated discrimination, she continued.

The Fourth Circuit held in a 2020 case, Grimm v. Gloucester County School District, that such policies denying transgender students access to certain bathrooms constituted sex-based discrimination, a violation of Title IX and the 14th Amendment.

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The case was appealed to the Supreme Court, which declined to hear it, leaving the lower courts decision in place.

Transgender rights have become a flashpoint in American politics in recent years, with dozens of states pushing  and some passing  legislation that restricts LGBTQ rights, including bans on gender-affirming care for minors and transgender athletes participating in womens sports, among others.

State lawmakers have passed 70 laws targeting transgender people this year alone, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.

As transgender students legal rights are under attack across the country, it is heartening that a federal appeals court has confirmed that John has the right to go to school as the boy that he is, said Joseph Wardenski, Principal of Wardenski P.C., a civil rights law firm.

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Meanwhile, in South Carolina, a group of Republican state lawmakers is pushing to codify the rule, introducing bills in the House and Senate that would permanently restrict which bathrooms transgender students can use in public K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.

We are gathered here today in defense of a biological fact, which is that men are men, boys are boys, women are women, and girls are girls, Sen. Wes Climer (R-York) said during a January 16 press conference. Our law and our policy should reflect those basic biological facts.

Both bills are currently sitting in committee.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Tread lightly: Bear, mountain lion sightings in Southern Utah

GRAND COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  Southern Utah residents and travelers, be aware of bears and mountain lions in Grand and Iron Counties.

In Grand County, officials say they are receiving reports of multiple bears in the area.

According to the Bureau of Land Management Utah, bears have been sighted in Grandstaff Canyon and along the Colorado River, in the Dewey Bridge to Hittle Bottom area. So if you are hiking or boating around Moab, officials are asking you to take extra precautions.

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Rangers at Grandstaff Canyon Trail say they have seen a lot of foot and paw traffic in the area and are asking Hikers to be mindful of possibly running into the bear.

Courtesy: BLM Utah

Its important to keep children close and pets on a leash at all times. Make sure you dont leave any snacks behind and remember that a black bear will often avoid any conflict with humans, and will likely move away on its own.

Six tips to avoid run-ins with bears this summer

In Iron County, the Sheriffs office said they received information of a mountain lion sighting near the gun range area on Tuesday.

According to Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR), if you encounter a mountain lion or a bear, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

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If you happen to be hiking in the area, make noise to alert cougars of your presence, leave the area if you find a dead animal, especially deer or elk, since it could be a cougar kill and make sure you keep children and pets close.

If you do encounter a bear, dont back up, lie down, or play dead. Instead, stay calm and give the bear a chance to leave. Prepare to use your bear spray or another deterrent. DWR says black bears are excellent climbers and can run up to 35 mph, so you wont be able to outrun or outclimb them.

If a black bear attacks, always fight back. DWR says that people have been able to successfully defend themselves with almost anything, such as rocks, sticks, backpacks, and water bottles.

More information about bear safety can be found on the Wild Aware Utah website.

Latest headlines:

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
FIRST ON FOX: The Treasury Department sanctioned a network of individuals linked to a "brutally violent" cartel for hundreds of millions of dollars of timeshare fraud targeting Americans in popular tourist destination Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Fox News Digital has learned.

The Treasury Department is now warning current U.S.-based owners of timeshares and those considering the purchase of a Mexico-based timeshare, to conduct "appropriate due diligence." Officials warn that the scams often target older Americans who can lose their life savings.

Brutally Violent Mexican Cartel Draining Americans' Life Savings In Complex Scam

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The Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on four Mexican individuals and 13 Mexican companies linked to timeshare fraud led by the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). The individuals linked to the fraud are based in or near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"We are coming for terrorist drug cartels like Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion that are flooding our country with fentanyl," Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said in a statement. "These cartels continue to create new ways to generate revenue to fuel their terrorist operations. At President Trumps direction, we will continue our effort to completely eradicate the cartels ability to generate revenue, including their efforts to prey on elderly Americans through timeshare fraud."

Scott Bessent, Treasury secretary, during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing in Washington, June 11, 2025.

The three senior CJNG members most involved in timeshare fraud sanctioned Wednesday are Julio Cesar Montero Pinzon (Montero), Carlos Andres Rivera Varela (Rivera) and Francisco Javier Gudino Haro (Gudino).

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Additionally, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, native Michael Ibarra Diaz Jr. (Ibarra) was sanctioned. Treasury says Ibarra is "engaged in timeshare fraud on behalf of CJNG."

The companies sanctioned are Akali Realtors, Centro Mediador De La Costa, S.A. de C.V., Corporativo Integral De La Costa, S.A. de C.V., Corporativo Costa Norte, S.A. de C.V., and Sunmex Travel, S. de R.L. De C.V. They "explicitly acknowledge their involvement in the timeshare industry."

Another company involved in timeshare-related transactions that was sanctioned is TTR Go, S.A. de C.V. They claim only to be a travel agency.

Three additional companies were sanctioned for their alleged real estate activities: Inmobiliaria Integral Del Puerto, S.A. de C.V., KVY Bucerias, S.A. de C.V., and Servicios Inmobiliarios Ibadi, S.A. de C.V.

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"This diverse corporate network also includes tour operators (Fishing Are Us, S. De R.L. de C.V.; Santamaria Cruise, S. de R.L. de C.V.), an automotive service company (Laminado Profesional Automotriz Elte, S.A. de C.V.), and an accounting firm (Consultorias Profesionales Almida, S.A. de C.V.).

Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion is a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. Officials said the cartel is increasingly supplementing its drug trafficking proceeds with alternative revenue streams like timeshare fraud and fuel theft.

"Treasury has taken a series of actions targeting the diverse revenue streams benefitting the cartels, including fuel theft, human smuggling, extortion, and fraud," the Treasury Department said. "As Treasury and its partners seek to disrupt the cartels revenue streams, it is important to remind current owners of timeshares in Mexico: If an unsolicited purchase or rental offer seems too good to be true, it probably is."

Treasury added: "Those considering the purchase of a timeshare in Mexico should conduct appropriate due diligence."

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Fbi Warns Of Mexican Cartels Targeting Americans In Timeshare Fraud Schemes

Officials said Mexico-based cartels have been targeting U.S. owners of timeshares through call centers in Mexico staffed by telemarketers in fluent English.

Officials said that beginning in 2012, CJNG took control of timeshare fraud schemes in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, and the surrounding area.

The scams often target older Americans "who can lose" their life savings, officials warned, adding that the lifecycle of the scams can "last years, resulting in financial and emotional devastation of the victims while enriching cartels like CJNG."

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Tropical Resorts Popular With Americans No Long Off Limits For Cartel Killers: The Rules Have Changed

Officials said the cartels typically obtain information about U.S. owners of timeshares in Mexico from "complicit insiders at timeshare resorts."

"After obtaining information on timeshare owners, the cartels, through their call centers, contact victims by phone or email and claim to be U.S.-based third-party timeshare brokers, attorneys, or sales representatives in the timeshare, travel, real estate, or financial services industries," the Treasury Department said.

The FBI says approximately 6,000 U.S. victims reported losing nearly $300 million between 2019 and 2023 to timeshare fraud schemes in Mexico.

Officials explained that the fraud may include timeshare exit scams, or resale scams, timeshare re-rent scams, and timeshare investment scams.

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"The common theme is that victims are asked to pay advance fees and taxes before receiving money supposedly owed to them," officials warned. "This money never comes, and the victims are continuously told to send these fees and taxes via international wire transfers to accounts held at Mexican banks and brokerage houses."

Timeshare Terror Leaves Retired Couple $50K In The Hole After Being Scammed

After initial scams, officials warn that "re-victimization scams can occur."

In July 2024, Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and the FBI issued a joint-notice on the timeshare fraud associated with Mexico-based cartels and criminal organizations.

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In the six-month period following that notice, FinCEN received more than 250 suspicious activity reports, and filers reported approximately 1,300 transactions totaling $23.1 million, sent primarily from U.S. based individuals to counterparties in Mexico.

Based on FinCENs analysis, U.S. fraud victims sent an average of $28,912 and a median amount of $10,000 per transaction to the suspected scammers since July 2024.

The FBI says approximately 6,000 U.S. victims reported losing nearly $300 million between 2019 and 2023 to timeshare fraud schemes in Mexico. But officials said that figure "likely underestimates total losses, as the FBI believes the vast majority of victims not report the scam due to embarrassment, among other reasons."





Original article source: Treasury sanctions 'brutally violent' cartel for timeshare fraud in tourist destination, warns Americans
Trenton's Board of Education approved the naming of two new schools after late Trenton Public School District educators (left) Betty V. Coles and (right) Miguel A. Hernandez, on July 28, at the auditorium of the Board of Education Central Services building, located at 108 North Clinton Ave., in Trenton.

Their names will soon be the name of new schools being built in Trenton: Betty Vaughn Coles and Miguel A. Hernandez.

The Trenton Board of Education approved the names for two new schools under construction in the citys South Ward a through the New Jersey Schools Development Authority.

Set to house one elementary school (grades kindergarten to third) and intermediate school (grades fourth to sixth) within a single modern building, the new facility is projected to open in September 2028, Morgan Glennon, Trenton Public School District communications officer, said.

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The boards ruling, which passed during its meeting on July 28, authorized naming the two new schools after longtime educators Coles and Hernandez. Both died in recent years.

The naming of these two new schools pays tribute to the lives of Coles and Hernandez two pillars of the Trenton community who exemplified excellence, compassion and service, a statement reads from the Trenton Public Schools District.

Their stories will live on in the students who walk through the doors of these schools and in the communitys shared vision for a brighter future, the statement continued.

The district currently has 26 schools located throughout the city, which includes 14 pre-kindergarten to third grade schools and six intermediate schools, according to the districts website.

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Within the new building, the two schools will serve an estimated 837 studentswith a projected functional capacity of 753 students, according to a statement from the district.

The schools campus will include five classrooms per grade, four sixth-grade classrooms, a dedicated science lab for sixth grade, and six special education classrooms, according to the statement.

In the coming months, the district will announced which name will be given to each school, according to the statement.

Coles  a Trenton native, trailblazing educator, mentor and civic leader  began teaching in 1954 at Junior High School No.1, becoming the first African American woman to teach at the school.

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For over 35 years at the district, Coles taught home economics, parenting and family living.

Outside of the classroom, Coles was a lifelong member of Shiloh Baptist Church and an active member of several organizations including the Bronzettes Inc., the New Jersey State Federation of Colored Womens Clubs, the NAACP, the National Congress of Black Women Inc., the Carver Youth and Family Center, and the Carver Century Club.

She was also a charter member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Epsilon Upsilon Omega Chapter. For over 25 years, Coles was a trustee of the Trenton YMCA Capital Area YMCA and was the first Black woman to be voted onto New Jerseys oldest YMCA Trustee Board.

Coles died on April 6, 2018, at 90 years old. After her death, the district established the Betty Vaughn Coles scholarship to award graduating Trenton students who are continuing their education after high school.

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Hernandez  a lifelong educator, veteran and community advocatewas born in Puerto Rico and moved to the U.S. to pursue education and opportunity.

On Feb. 27, 1952, Hernandez enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War as part of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers, a segregated Puerto Rican unit notable for their perseverance despite facing of discrimination.

In 2014, the regiment was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the nations highest civilian honors. In 2020, Mayor Reed Gusciora presented Hernandez with a city proclamation honoring his service and contributions to Trenton.

After serving his country, Hernandez dedicated more than 40 years to the district as an English as Second Language (ESL) teacher and advocate helping to strengthen bilingual education and support for english language learners.

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In 1994, he was selected for New Jerseys Governors Special Recognition Program.

After retiring from teaching, Hernandez continued serving the community through adult education and GED instruction at Mercer County Community College. Hernandez died on Oct. 27, 2020.

Mosaic staff writer Vashti Harris can be reached at vharris@njadvancemedia.com.

Welcome to Mosaic. Follow us on Instagram at @MosaicNJcom, on Facebook at MosaicNJcom, on Twitter (X) at @MosaicNJcom and on YouTube at @MosaicNJcom.
FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The trial for a Fort Smith couple facing multiple charges after a child overdosed on THC has been delayed, according to court documents.

Kelli Casey, 31, and Roy Casey, 31, were arrested on April 8 on first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor and maintaining a premises for drug activity charges. Both have pleaded not guilty to those charges.

Roy Casey, 31 (Courtesy: Sebastian County Detention Center)

Kelli Casey, 31 (Courtesy: Sebastian County Detention Center)

Court records showed the plea deadline for the couple was Aug. 13, and their jury trial was scheduled for Sept. 17. Roy Casey appeared in court on Wednesday for an inquiry hearing; however, his attorney filed a motion asking for his case to be continued.

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Arkansas Department of Commerce warns of new scam targeting former unemployment insurance claimants

Kelli Caseys case was continued, according to a motion filed on Aug. 12. Court records showed that Kelli Caseys plea deadline was set for Sept. 2, with her jury trial scheduled to begin on Oct. 6.

Case background

A probable cause affidavit said that on Feb. 7, Fort Smith police officers were contacted by a hospital regarding an unresponsive toddler who was flown to Arkansas Childrens Hospital in Little Rock.

Hospital staff determined the child had acute respiratory failure and secondary THC poisoning due to overdosing on THC, according to the affidavit.

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THC is the main ingredient in marijuana that produces the psychoactive effect, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

FSPD later interviewed the Caseys.

Kelli Casey said she was getting ready for work on Feb. 7 when she noticed something was wrong with her toddler.

She said the child was acting lethargic and bleeding from his nose, so she took him to the hospital.

Arkansas lawmakers seek legal action after Ten Commandments lawsuit

Kelli Casey told FSPD that she and her husband consume THC, but [there] was no way the child couldve gotten into it because they keep it locked up in a closet.

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Roy Casey said there was no THC in the home when the child was taken to the hospital.

The affidavit said officers searched the home and found 11 grams of marijuana, 20 THC liquid vape cartridges and two bongs with THC wax residue on the kitchen counter. There was also a film of wax residue on multiple items in the home.

DHS investigated the case and did follicle tests on the five children in the home. Four of them tested positive for THC in their systems.

The couple is free on a $10,000 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 KNWA FOX24.
The trial of Labour MP Tulip Siddiq over corruption allegations has formally begun in Bangladesh.

The former minister did not attend the hearing, where investigators from the country's corruption watchdog set out the case against her and 20 other individuals, including her aunt, her mother, her brother and her sister.

She is accused of influencing her aunt Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted as Bangladesh's prime minister last year, to secure a plot of land in a suburb of the capital Dhaka for her family members.

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The MP for Hampstead and Highgate, who denies the allegations, said the "so-called trial" was "a farce" built on "fabricated accusations and driven by a clear political vendetta".

Hasina fled Bangladesh for India last August after being ousted amid a crackdown by government forces on student-led protests which saw hundreds killed.

A copy of the case alleges that whilst she was a serving MP Ms Siddiq "forced and influenced her aunt and the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina using her special power to secure [a plot of land] for her mother Rehana Siddiq, sister Azmina Siddiq and brother Radwan Siddiq".

As per Bangladeshi law, if an individual has any plot or flat in or around Dhaka, they are not permitted to receive any plot in the lucrative Purbachal project, prosecutors said.

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If found guilty, the maximum sentence would be a lifetime imprisonment, according to prosecutors.

The prosecutor for the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Tariqul Islam, said Ms Siddiq was being tried as a Bangladeshi citizen as the ACC found her Bangladeshi passport, national ID, and tax identity number.

Ms Siddiq's lawyers previously told the Financial Times: "Tulip has never had a Bangladesh national identity card or voter ID and has not held a passport since she was a child."

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In a statement on X, Ms Siddiq said: "Over the past year, the allegations against me have repeatedly shifted, yet I have never been contacted by the Bangladeshi authorities once.

"I have never received a court summons, no official communication, and no evidence.

"If this were a genuine legal process, the authorities would have engaged with me or my legal team, responded to our formal correspondence, and presented the evidence they claim to hold.

"Instead, they have peddled false and vexatious allegations that have been briefed to the media but never formally put to me by investigators."

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She added: "I have been clear from the outset that I have done nothing wrong and will respond to any credible evidence that is presented to me. Continuing to smear my name to score political points is both baseless and damaging."

The Bangladeshi authorities issued an arrest warrant for Ms Siddiq earlier this year.

The next hearing in the case has been scheduled for 28 August.

Prosecutor Tariqul Islam spoke to the media outside the court in Dhaka [Reuters]

Ms Siddiq resigned as Treasury minister in Sir Keir Starmer's government in January, saying continuing in her role would be a "distraction", although she insisted she had done nothing wrong.

It followed an investigation into the allegations against her by the prime minister's standards adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus.

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In his report, Sir Laurie said he had "not identified evidence of improprieties".

But he said it was "regrettable" that Siddiq had not been more alert to the "potential reputational risks" of her ties to her aunt.

The trial in Bangladesh relates to three charges, while Ms Siddiq also faces another charge of allegedly illegally acquiring a flat in the Gulshan area of Dhaka.

The ACC is also investigating a separate case against Siddiq and her family over allegations of embezzlement of 3.9bn connected to a Russian-funded nuclear power plant deal with Bangladesh in 2013.

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Siddiq has denied any involvement in the deal.

The investigation is based on a series of allegations made by Bobby Hajjaj, a political opponent of Hasina.

Bangladeshi authorities estimate that about $234bn (174bn) was siphoned off from Bangladesh through corrupt means while Hasina was in power.

[BBC]

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A New Jersey appeals court ruled that psychiatric defenses cannot be used to fight driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges, setting a new legal precedent.

A three-judge Appellate Division panel ruled that DWI is a strict liability offense, meaning that the drivers mental state is legally irrelevant.

The only question for the court to consider is whether the person was operating a vehicle while impaired, the court ruled.

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The ruling also rejected Victor Baverovs argument that he was entitled to a jury trial.

Under both state and federal law, even repeat DWI offenses carrying up to 180 days in jail are considered petty and do not trigger the constitutional right to a jury, according to the ruling.

Baverov, 42, was arrested in November 2021 after crashing his car into a tree on a rural road in Upper Freehold.

A New Jersey state trooper who responded to the scene reported that Baverov had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and smelled strongly of alcohol.

Baverov admitted to drinking five or six beers and failed multiple field sobriety tests. He was charged with DWI, reckless driving and failure to maintain a lane.

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He was convicted in municipal court in January 2023 of DWI  his fifth offense  and sentenced to 180 days in jail, an eight-year drivers license suspension, four years of ignition interlock, and other penalties.

On appeal, Baverov argued that his trial attorney failed him by refusing to present a psychiatric defense based on persecutory paranoia and memory loss unrelated to alcohol use.

However, the Appellate Division sided with his attorney, who had correctly cited case law barring mental health defenses in DWI cases.

The court emphasized that under New Jersey law, DWI is a strict liability offense.

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This means prosecutors only need to prove the person was driving while impaired, not that they intended to break the law or were aware of their actions.

The only relevant factor is whether the person was driving while impaired.

Allowing psychiatric defenses, the judges said, would open the door to fabricated claims and unnecessarily complex trials.

The court also found that Baverovs constitutional rights were not violated by being tried without a jury.

Although Baverov was sentenced to jail, the term did not exceed six months  the legal threshold under both the U.S. and New Jersey constitutions for when a defendant is entitled to a jury trial, the court ruled.

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Because his sentence fell within the range considered a petty offense, the court ruled that he was not constitutionally entitled to be tried by a jury.

The appellate court affirmed the conviction and sentence.

John Menzel, Baverovs attorney, said he plans to appeal the question of whether a defense attorney has an ethical obligation to present certain defenses in criminal cases.

Attorneys need to understand that they are there to defend their clients, not order them to do something, Menzel said. We make recommendations and explain why, but the client is the boss.

The state was represented by the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office, which declined to comment on the ruling.

Colleen Murphy may be reached at cmurphy@njadvancemedia.com.
The Delhi High Court was informed on Wednesday that disciplinary action has been initiated against nine officials of Tihar Jail in connection with an alleged extortion racket involving both staff and inmates. The Delhi government's counsel told a bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela that all nine officials have been suspended, transferred from Jail No 1, and are now facing proceedings under the Central Civil Services (CCS) rules. "We will submit our report within two months," the counsel assured. The court, while recording the submissions, urged that disciplinary rules be followed strictly in accordance with the law and granted eight weeks to both the Delhi government and the CBI to file a status report, setting the next hearing for October 28. The matter arises from a petition highlighting illegalities and misconduct within Tihar Jail. On Monday, the High Court had expressed strong concern over the alleged racket, remarking that it was unacceptable for certain inmates to enjoy undue privileges while basic needs were denied to others. It directed the CBI to register an FIR and investigate, after examining its preliminary enquiry (PE) report, which pointed to collusion between inmates and jail staff in illegal activities. The case was initiated on a plea by businessman Mohit Kumar Goyal, who was arrested in a cheating case and later released on bail. Goyal alleged that an organised extortion network was operating inside Tihar. Following his claims, the court in September 2024 ordered a jail inspection. The inspecting judge's April 7 report revealed misuse of the prison's landline for extortion calls and flagged serious irregularities involving prison authorities. Acting on the findings, the court on May 2 directed the CBI to begin a PE and instructed the Delhi government to identify and act against officials aiding the racket, a process that has now led to the current suspensions. (ANI)
Having your neighbor's tree hang over your yard can be an eyesore or an irritation.

But, who is responsible for trimming those overhanging branches? Is it your job or your neighbor's?

Lucky for you, Arizona has clear rules and guidelines around this case, which originated from a 1980s dispute over the damages and costs associated with one neighbor's eucalyptus tree roots growing into the other's yard.

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Here's everything you need to know about Arizona's law on the issue, including what you must do before trimming the branches, who is responsible for paying and how to check property lines.

Can I trim my neighbor's tree if its branches grow into my yard in Arizona?

Yes, you can trim tree branches that overhang into your yard. You can also cut roots from a neighbor's plant that are growing on your property, too.

However, legal experts recommend you talk with your neighbor about the issue and give them a chance to fix it before taking matters into your own hands. If they choose not to fix it, you can trim the overhanging branches.

While trimming the branches or roots be sure to follow these guidelines:

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You can only trim the plant up to the property line.

Do not enter your neighbor's property to trim the tree, unless you receive permission from your neighbor to do so.

You cannot cut down the tree entirely.

You cannot destroy the tree by trimming.

In the Arizona legal case of Cannon v. Dunn, the courts ruled that the eucalyptus tree root growing onto the neighbor's property caused no damage to the neighbor's yard. The courts denied the neighbor's request for monetary damages. This case is the basis for much of Arizona's legal precedent about overhanging branches.

Who pays to cut overhanging branches in Arizona?

Though your neighbor's tree is causing the problem, you are responsible for the branches hanging in your yard. This means that you are responsible for the costs if you hire someone to cut the branches or roots on your side of the property line.

More: Is it illegal to ride in the bed of a truck in Arizona? Here's what the law says

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Can I trim neighbor's tree branches in my yard? What Arizona law says
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas  An area of storms southwest of Texas, which was once designated by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) as Invest 98L, has moved inland over northeastern Mexico and south Texas.

On Friday afternoon, the former invest had begun to move onto land, near the mouth of the Rio Grande, inhibiting its chances for development, the National Hurricane Center said.

A reconnaissance flight by NOAA's Hurricane Hunters Friday, found no closed circulation within the storms, indicating the system is not organized as a tropical cyclone.

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Regardless of development, heavy rain of up to 1 inch is expected for south Texas. NOAA's Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 2 out of 4 Flash Flood Threat from Brownsville to just north of Port Mansfield.

Tropical Storm Erin Could Undergo Rapid Intensification With Hurricane Hunters Set To Investigate Thursday

Hurricane Hunters based in Mississippi began a mission into Invest 98L on Thursday. These flights are crucial to forecasting tropical weather as the data allows for better output from computer models.

Invest 98L is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and rip currents to areas, especially along the southern Texas coast.

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On Wednesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott ordered officials to activate state resources ahead of the tropical disturbance's arrive in the state.

"As Texas braces for incoming heavy rain and strong winds along the Gulf Coast and South Texas, I activated emergency response resources to help local officials protect their fellow Texans," Abbott said in a written statement. "This tropical system could lead to dangerous travel conditions and potential flash flooding. Texans are urged to take all necessary precautions for potential tropical weather, regularly check road conditions before traveling, and have an emergency plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe."

How To Watch Fox Weather

Stormy weather in Corpus Christi, Texas as Tropical Storm Alberto swirls in the Gulf of Mexico on June 19, 2024.





Original article source: South Texas soaked with heavy rain and potential flooding into the weekend from tropical downpours
Tropical Storm Erin continues to move quickly to the west and is expected to begin strengthening today, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

The latest advisory predicts Erin could be a strong Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph within the next five days.

Forecasters are encouraging residents in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and northern Leeward Islands to closely monitor Erin, which is expected to begin strengthening today.

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 Track all active storms

 Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location

Erin is expected to become a hurricane Friday morning, and strengthen into a major hurricane by Sunday morning, Aug. 17. A major hurricane is one that's a Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph.

The impact Erin could have on Florida and the U.S. remained uncertain as of Wednesday, Aug. 13, but officials are encouraging residents to monitor the storm.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the National Hurricane Center.

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Forecasters reminded everyone that the forecast cone has an average error of 150 to 215 statute miles in the days 4 and 5 forecast. It's also important to remember that the cone represents where the center of the storm could be.

The fifth-named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Erin formed earlier than the historical average of Aug. 22.

The average date for the first hurricane is Aug. 11, and the first major hurricane typically does not occur until Sept. 1, according to AccuWeather.

Tropical Storm Erin update, path

Special note on the NHC cone: The forecast track shows the most likely path of the center of the storm. It does not illustrate the full width of the storm or its impacts, and the center of the storm is likely to travel outside the cone up to 33% of the time.

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Location : 1,305 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands

Maximum sustained winds: 45 mph

Movement : west at 17 mph

Pressure : 1,004 mb

Next advisory: 5 p.m. ET

When will Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane?

The National Hurricane Center predicted Erin will likely become a hurricane by Friday morning, Aug. 15.

Erin is expected to continue strengthening, becoming a major hurricane with winds estimated at 120 mph Sunday, Aug. 17.

Spaghetti models for Tropical Storm Erin. Where is the storm going?

Special note about spaghetti models: Illustrations include an array of forecast tools and models, and not all are created equal. The hurricane center uses only the top four or five highest performing models to help make its forecasts.

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 Track Tropical Storm Erin

Is there a hurricane coming to Florida?

No tropical storm  or hurricane  watches or warnings have been issued for Florida or the United States, and it's too early to tell whether Erin will impact the U.S., according to the National Hurricane Center, National Weather Service and Florida Division of Emergency Management.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the Hurricane Center said.

How strong is Tropical Storm Erin and where could it go? See the scenarios

The National Hurricane Center said Tropical Storm Erin is expected to begin strengthening today, Aug. 13 and become a hurricane Friday, Aug. 15, and a strong Category 3 hurricane by Sunday, Aug. 17 as it moves out of an area with dry area and "marginal" sea surface temperatures.

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Erin is expected to continue moving west across the Atlantic but is expected to turn to the west-northwest as it encounters a weakness in a "ridge" to its north. Exactly where that turn takes place remains uncertain.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week," the National Hurricane Center said.

"Users are reminded that NHC track forecasts have an average error of 150-215 miles at days four and five, and future adjustments to the forecast are still possible."

"At the very least, building seas will pose threats for small craft and larger ocean-going vessels over the western Atlantic. Increasing surf and rip currents will pose dangers for swimmers over much of the U.S. Atlantic coast and Bermuda," AccuWeather forecasters said.

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"The amount of wind and rain that occurs over the northeastern Caribbean islands and the Bahamas will depend on Erin's size, intensity and its ability to pull moisture northward from the Caribbean."

"Erin will be guided along by the northeast trade winds initially and then the clockwise circulation around the massive Bermuda High over the central Atlantic," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

"It is the shape of that oceanic high, as well as the approach of a cool front and dip in the jet stream near the Atlantic Coast, that will determine the exact track of the projected major hurricane as it approaches the Atlantic Coast of the United States next week."

The scenarios, according to AccuWeather are:

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"If the Bermuda High remains fairly round or yields to the approaching cool front and jet stream dip, Erin is likely to turn to the north before reaching the U.S.

"If the Bermuda High extends well to the west, it could block the potential major hurricane's northward path. The result would be a potential track very close to or onshore in the U.S., probably somewhere from the Carolinas north."

Key messages from the National Hurricane Center: What you need to know about Tropical Storm Erin

Erin could move close enough to the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend to produce some impacts on those islands. However, the magnitude of those impacts is still not known, and residents there should continue to monitor the progress of this storm. Swells generated by Erin will begin affecting portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by this weekend. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts might occur in portions of the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, the east coast of the United States, and Bermuda next week. Erin is expected to become a hurricane by Friday, Aug. 15, and a major hurricane Sunday, Aug. 17. NHC track forecasts have an average error of 150 to 215 miles at days four and five, and future adjustments to the forecast are still possible.

Current forecast: How strong could Tropical Storm Erin get?

At 11 a.m.: 45 mph

12 hours: 50 mph

24 hours: 60 mph

36 hours: 65 mph

48 hours: 75 mph

60 hours: 85 mph

72 hours: 100 mph

96 hours: 115 mph

120 hours: 120 mph

Will Tropical Storm Erin impact Florida? What other areas could be affected?

It's still early to tell yet what impacts Tropical Storm Erin could have on Florida or the United States, although forecasters said rough surf and dangerous rip currents are possible along the east coast as Erin approaches.

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Officials warn residents should be prepared and closely monitor the storm that's expected to become a major hurricane by Sunday.

"There is even greater uncertainty in what impacts, if any, might occur in ... the east coast of the United States ... next week," the National Hurricane Center said at 11 a.m. Aug. 13.

 Excessive rainfall forecast

Swells generated by Erin will begin affecting portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by this weekend, according to the National Hurricane Center. "These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions."

Interactive map: What tropical storms, hurricanes have impacted your area in the past?

Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text

What's next?

We will update our tropical weather coverage daily.

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This story has been updated to include new information.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Tropical Storm Erin tracker, spaghetti models. Strengthening expected
All products featured on Conde Nast Traveler are independently selected by Conde Nast Traveler editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Conde Nast may earn an affiliate commission.

Chansak Joe/Getty

After coming within 200 miles of the North Carolina coast, Hurricane Erin's path turned toward the North Atlantic on Thursday, moving away from the US and out to sea. Still, thousands of travelers embarking on beach vacations, cruises, or flights could feel the powerful storms effects all the way through this weekend, as coastal areas warn visitors of dangerous ocean conditions.

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Over the next couple of days, the storm is expected to produce dangerous surf and rip currents along the US East Coast, with the possibility of 15-foot waves in the Outer Banks, Cape Cod, and eastern Long Island. Storm surge may impact beaches from the Delmarva coastline to southern New Jersey through late Thursday night," Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather's lead hurricane expert, told reporters on Thursday. "Several feet of water rise from Hurricane Erin may extend as far north as northern New Jersey and coastal areas near New York City.

Heres the latest on what travelers should know about Hurricane Erin.

What areas are impacted?

Parts of North Carolina's Outer Banks remained in a State of Emergency on Thursday, with Hatteras Island under a mandatory evacuation order. Coastal flooding, storm surge, and overwash are expected to begin with this evenings high tide and continue to build through Friday, August 22, 2025, Dare County officials said in a Thursday advisory. N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island is expected to become impassable, making it extremely difficultif not impossiblefor emergency services personnel to respond to calls for service on Hatteras Island.

The National Hurricane Center advised beachgoers against swimming at most US East Coast beaches on Thursday, warning of life-threatening rip currents. Beaches along the East Coastincluding New York City beacheshave temporarily closed to swimmers as a result. The Cape Cod National Seashore has closed off the water to all recreational activities due to hazardous conditions.

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Do not let your guard down if youre spending time at the beach on Friday or Saturday, DaSilva said. "It may seem like a nice beach day with sunshine and blue skies as the storm goes out to sea, but powerful rip currents will be lurking in the water through Saturday. The final weekends of summer can be deceptively dangerous when a hurricane is stirring up the Atlantic.

How are flights being impacted?

Good news for travelers with upcoming flights: Hurricane Erin isnt having a major impact on US air travel, especially as the system moves further out into the Eastern Atlantic.

However, select flight routes heading into the Atlantic might be affected.

United Airlines issued a travel waiver for its flights to Bermuda, allowing customers to change their itinerary without paying change fees or fare differences. Travelers scheduled to fly with United to Bermuda (BDA) on August 21 or 22 can change their itinerary to depart anytime through August 29. New reservations must be in the same fare class and between the same cities as the original itinerary, and the original tickets must have been purchased by August 17.

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Regional carrier InterCaribbean Airways noted it was amending some flight schedules on its August 19 island-hopping routes in order to make up for widespread cancellations that occurred on August 17. Updates are available on the airlines website.

Previously, the storm caused widespread power outages in Puerto Rico and shut down airports across the Virgin Islands as it passed through the area on August 15 and 16. However, utilities providers had the majority of Puerto Ricos power restored. The US Virgin Islands "did well in the storm and can report no major damages," the tourism board said in an update, adding: "We are open for business!

Are cruises being rerouted?

Cruise lines are rerouting ships that were scheduled to call upon Bermuda, the eastern Caribbean, and certain areas of The Bahamas. Heres a look at the latest changes.

Carnival

Carnival Sunshine canceled its Bermuda calls on August 20 and 21. Instead, the ship visited the lines resort area on Grand Bahama, Celebration Key, on August 19, and will call on Nassau, Bahamas on August 20, before returning to Norfolk, Virginia, as scheduled on August 23.

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Carnival Vista visited Nassau, Bahamas, on August 19, instead of the lines private Bahamian island, Half Moon Cay. Carnival Elation will visit Freeport, Bahamas, on August 20, instead of Half Moon Cay. Additionally, the lines Mardi Gras visited Grand Turk a day later on August 19 instead of August 18.

The line also says its monitoring for potential itinerary changes for Carnival Venezia, which is scheduled to depart New York City on August 19 for a seven-day Caribbean voyage. Our Fleet Operations Center in Miami has been working with the captains on our ships to monitor Hurricane Erin, a Carnival spokesperson says. Guests on upcoming sailings are encouraged to opt in to text alerts during check-in and monitor their email for potential updates from Carnival."

Disney Cruise Line

The itinerary aboard Disney Treasure, which departed Port Canaveral, Florida, on a Caribbean voyage on August 16, is being amended, according to Cruise Industry News. Instead of sailing to eastern islands like the US Virgin Islands, the ship will now call upon ports in the Western Caribbean, including Cozumel, the Cayman islands, and Jamaica.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Two Norwegian ships that were scheduled to call upon Bermuda were shifted to new destinations. Norwegian Jewel departed from the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda a day early at 6 p.m. local time on August 18 and is spending a day at sea on August 19. Norwegian Aqua has canceled its call to the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda and will now call on Saint John in New Brunswick, Canada on August 20.

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No further itineraries have been impacted at this time, a spokesperson for the cruise line said. We will continue to monitor the storm and communicate any additional updates as appropriate directly to guests.

MSC Cruises

Travelers aboard one of MSC ships that departed Miami on August 16 on a Caribbean voyage will notice a few itinerary changes. Due to the projected path of Hurricane Erin, we are adjusting MSC World Americas itinerary, an MSC spokesperson said. Our scheduled visits to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, will be replaced with Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. We will still proceed to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve as originally scheduled.

Royal Caribbean

Originally scheduled for a five-night voyage to Bermuda, Royal Caribbeans Liberty of the Seas instead made an overnight call to Halifax, Canada, according to Cruise Industry News. The ship departed New Jerseys Port Liberty on August 16. The lines Vision of the Seas also canceled an earlier visit to Bermuda, which was scheduled to call on the island on August 16 and 17.

What to know about traveling during the 2025 hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June to November, with storm activity cresting in mid-September. Experts at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say they expect this season to have above-average hurricane activity, with up to 19 named storms this year. Thats four more storms than a typical year.

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If youre planning coastal or island travel during this stretch, its important to remain flexible in your plans and closely monitor alerts from your airline. Its a good idea to add your email or phone number to your airline booking to receive travel advisories and flight updates directly to your mobile devices. Travelers who have already booked their flights can also enroll for airline travel alerts on the flight reservations page of most carriers websites.

When booking a trip during hurricane season, check if it makes sense to purchase travel insurance that can reimburse pre-paid, non-refundable expenses in the case of an extreme weather event. The conditions for hurricane-related coverage can often be highly specific, so be sure to read the fine print before purchasing. (Pro tip: Check to see if your credit card already includes travel insurance to avoid doubling up.)

This is a developing news story and will be updated with information as it becomes available.

Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler

The Latest Travel News and Advice
Tropical Storm Erin is expected to become a hurricane in the next two days as it churns in the central Atlantic and could pose risks to Caribbean islands this weekend, according to the National Hurricane Center.

As of Wednesday morning, Erin was located about 1,400 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph.

The storm is moving west at 20 mph and is forecast to continue west before turning west-northwest.

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Erin has not been able to strengthen significantly for the past couple of days, the National Hurricane Center said early Wednesday. However, it is expected that the systems environment will gradually become more conducive for intensification over the next 48 hours.

Hurricane forecasters predict Erin reaching hurricane strength by late Thursday or early Friday. By Saturday, the storm is expected to have winds up to 75 mph, and could reach 85 mph by Sunday.

AccuWeather's forecast for Tropical Storm Erin shows the storm reaching major hurricane status and turning north away from the East Coast.

While no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect, the National Hurricane Center advises that interests in the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico should closely monitor Erins progress.

Erin could move close enough to the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend to produce some impacts on those islands, the hurricane center said. However, the magnitude of those impacts is still not known, and interests there should continue to monitor the progress of this storm.

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Specific impacts remain uncertain, and residents are urged to follow local weather updates.

The National Hurricane Center emphasized that there is significant uncertainty about potential impacts to the Greater Antilles, Bahamas, U.S. East Coast, and Bermuda next week.

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
Tropical Storm Erin is expected to turn into a major hurricane, and while New England might not feel strong winds, the area is forecasted to face another dangerous aspect of the storm.

"AccuWeather hurricane experts are sounding the alarm about the growing risk of dangerous beach conditions across the Bahamas, Bermuda and much of the East Coast of the United States," according to a release.

The biggest concern is rip currents, powerful channels of fast moving water, which have killed more than 50 United States and Puerto Rico have died in surf zones this year. If you are caught in a rip current, officials advise you to swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the channel.

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Erin will churn up rough surf and dangerous rip currents along the Atlantic coastline from Florida all the way north to Maine starting this weekend into next week...a major hurricane in the open Atlantic can produce very rough surf that will impact beaches hundreds of miles away," AccuWeather meterologist Alex Dasilva said in a release.

What should people in New England watch out for when it comes to Tropical Storm Erin?

Where is Erin tracking right now?

While rough seas are expected, it's currently unclear whether or not the storm will impact New England.

What is forecasted is that it will become hurricane by Thursday or Friday and a major hurricane Sunday, Aug. 17. A major hurricane is a Category 3 or stronger storm with maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph.

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"People and businesses in the Bahamas, Bermuda, and along the East Coast of the United States should monitor Erin's progress, as a shift in the track could directly impact these areas," AccuWeather stated in a release.

Where is Tropical Storm Erin going?

Special note on the NHC cone: The forecast track shows the most likely path of the center of the storm. It does not illustrate the full width of the storm or its impacts, and the center of the storm is likely to travel outside the cone up to 33% of the time.

Tropical Storm Erin path tracker

Illustrations include an array of forecast tools and models, and not all are created equal. The hurricane center uses only the top four or five highest-performing models to help make its forecasts.

Tropical Storm Erin spaghetti models

Illustrations include an array of forecast tools and models, and not all are created equal. The hurricane center uses only the top four or five highest-performing models to help make its forecasts.

More hot spots for storm formations

AccuWeather hurricane experts are also monitoring four additional areas at low risk of tropical development potential in the Atlantic basin.

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Here's what the weather agency is predicting at the moment:

A medium risk of tropical rain and wind impacts extends across northern Hispaniola, the Lesser Antilles and eastern Bahamas from Aug. 15-19 as Erin passes near the area.

A medium risk of tropical rain and wind impacts from Erin is forecast for eastern Nova Scotia from Aug. 20-24.

A low risk of tropical rain and wind impacts has been expanded from the central and eastern Gulf Coast, across Florida, and along the entire East Coast.

AccuWeather hurricane experts are forecasting a low risk of tropical development on Aug. 12 over the Gulf.

What's the hurricane outlook for the 2025 season?

The AccuWeather 2025 Atlantic hurricane season forecast is predicting 13-18 named storms, including 7-10 hurricanes, adding "Three to six direct U.S. impacts are forecast, the same range as last years catastrophic season with six landfalls."

The report noted that the climatological peak of hurricane season begins Sept. 10.

What is the NOAA forecast on hurricanes in 2025?

NOAA is forecasting a range of 13 to 19 total named storms. Of those, 6 to 10 are forecast to become hurricanes, including 3 to 5 major hurricanes.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Tropical Storm Erin forecasted to become hurricane. See track
Traffic is backed up in the Puyallup area after a box truck struck a cable barrier Tuesday afternoon.

The driver was on state Route 512 eastbound near South Meridian when they struck the cable barrier after experiencing possible brake failure, Washington State Patrol Trooper John Dattilo told The News Tribune. The left lane is blocked.

The crash was reported at 2:37 p.m., according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.

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No one was injured or impaired, Dattilo said.

The crash may take a while to clear up as tow trucks make their way to the scene.

Wednesday update: There is about a five mile back up Wednesday morning on state Route 512 near Meridian as WSDOT crews work to repair the damaged guardrail. The lane lane is still closed.
The Trump administration appears to be backing away from its fiercely contested efforts to freeze a $5 billion federal funding program for electric vehicle chargers.

On Monday, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled revised guidance for states to access their remaining share of $5 billion in formula grants from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. NEVI was created by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law to establish reliable charging along major highways, particularly in underserved parts of the country.

Our revised NEVI guidance slashes red tape and makes it easier for states to efficiently build out this infrastructure, Duffy said in a statement. While I dont agree with subsidizing green energy, we will respect Congress' will and make sure this program uses federal resources efficiently.

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Groups representing industries involved in EV charger deployments welcomed the decision, which could allow states to restart projects that have in some cases been paused for months due to orders from the federal government. But environmental advocates warned that the move is just another delay tactic from an administration thats exceeding its lawful authority by blocking money appropriated by Congress, for EV charging and beyond.

Mondays announcement comes after months of legal challenges to the Department of Transportations February decision rescinding guidance for states to access their NEVI funding. That withdrawal, part of the Trump administrations broader attack on Biden-era climate and clean energy initiatives, forced states to halt work underway on contracts and projects representing roughly half of the $5 billion in program funding.

Litigation hasnt panned out in the administrations favor so far. In June, a federal judge ordered the Transportation Department to release about $875 million for the states that had contested the freeze, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Some of those states have been able to access NEVI funding since then, said Daniel Wilkins, a policy analyst at research firm Atlas Public Policy.

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However, a chunk of the funding remains unavailable, and the District of Columbia and 20 states are continuing their fight in court in the hopes of getting the Trump administration to unfreeze the rest. The federal governments actions have disrupted ongoing contracts with EV charging developers and caused costly delays in project implementation, according to an August court filing.

The 20 states suing the Transportation Department are led by Democratic governors, but the NEVI program sets aside money for red and blue states alike. Texas is set to receive nearly $408 million, more than any other state, and Ohio opened the first NEVI-funded charging station.

Under Mondays order, states can now reapply for funding within the next 30 days.

Getting the NEVI program back up and running will help to ensure that EV drivers can find charging when and where they need it, Albert Gore, executive director of the Zero Emission Transportation Association, a trade group that includes automakers, battery manufacturers, mining companies, charging manufacturers, and electric utilities, said in a Monday statement. In that light, the new guidance provides important regulatory certainty for the companies and state departments of transportation that are implementing this program on the ground.

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But the Sierra Club, one of seven nonprofit groups that have joined the legal challenges against the NEVI funding freeze, noted that the departments guidance does not reinstate those plans, but instead requires states to resubmit them, further delaying the nationwide EV charging buildout.

While the Trump administration has moved away from anti-EV rhetoric in this guidance in response to federal litigation filed by over a dozen states, Sierra Club, and other nonprofit organizations, it is still illegally withholding billions Congress dedicated to EV charging, Katherine Garcia, director of Sierra Clubs Clean Transportation for All campaign, said in a Monday statement. We will continue to work towards the recovery of nationwide NEVI funding.

A spokesperson for the Washington state attorney generals office, one of the lead plaintiffs in the lawsuit by the 20 states and D.C., said the office is reviewing the revised guidance.

Mondays announcement also weakens the program's support for lower-income and disadvantaged communities. It removes requirements that the funding ensure that the deployment, installation, operation, and use of EV charging infrastructure achieves equitable and fair distribution of benefits and services, and eliminates Biden-era Justice40 requirements that at least 40% of the benefits of the projects be targeted toward disadvantaged communities.

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Duffy justified these changes in Mondays statement. If Congress is requiring the federal government to support charging stations, lets cut the waste and do it right, he said.

The NEVI program has made slow progress. The Biden administration hoped to spur the buildout of 500,000 public charging stations by 2030, up from about 206,000 today. But just 378 NEVI fast chargers have come online as of this month, according to Wilkins at Atlas Public Policy. And of the $5 billion in funds, only about $615 million was under contract for constructing almost 1,000 charging sites as of February, according to EV-charging data firm Paren.

Mondays announcement highlighted that slow start as a clear signal of the programs failure. Both Republicans and Democrats have criticized the pace of deployment under the Biden administration.

The NATSO and SIGMA trade groups, which represent truck stops and fuel retailers, respectively, praised the Transportation Departments new guidance, saying in a Monday statement that it marks a constructive step toward addressing the ongoing challenges associated with deploying EV charging infrastructure while also ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively.

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But Sierra Clubs Garcia said the Trump administrations freeze has only further delayed the work that Mondays order purports to streamline. Its ironic that this guidance was sold as cutting red tape, yet all it has accomplished is more than half a year of needless delay, she said.

The country doubled its number of public charging ports between 2020 and last year, and over 7,100 public fast-charging ports came online in the first half of this year, according to Atlas Public Policy. Still, only 23 NEVI chargers have opened since February.

That delay is particularly harmful to parts of the country that lack the EV adoption to make charger investments worthwhile for private-sector developers  a hurdle NEVI was meant to help overcome. Rural communities in particular are lagging in fast-charger deployments.

Loren McDonald, Parens chief analyst, noted that Mondays revised guidance does give individual states more flexibility and control over how they spend NEVI dollars, which could speed project selection and construction.

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However, it could also make the program less effective at serving charging deserts, he said  a term for places where EV charging companies like Tesla, EVgo, and Electrify America were not deploying stations because utilization would be low.

One of the main factors holding many people back from getting an EV is they dream of that one road trip in rural Wyoming and wont get an EV because theyve heard there are no charging stations, he said. NEVI was designed to fix that perception in reality. But I worry that if states have complete control over locations, they may not focus on solving the charging-desert issue.


The Trump administration released its new, drastically scaled-down version of the State Departments annual human rights report after months of delay Tuesday. The administrations assessment of human rights abuses in some countries, which is one-tenth as long as last years report, reaches notably different conclusions and dedicates no sections to abuses against women or LGBTQ people.

The report also places a new focus on restrictions of freedom of expression by U.S. adversaries and allies alike.

Amanda Klasing, Amnesty International USAs national director of government relations and advocacy, said the Trump administration had engaged in highly selective documentation of human rights abuses in certain countries.

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We have criticized past reports when warranted, but have never seen reports quite like this, Klasing said in a statement. Never before have the reports gone this far in prioritizing an administrations political agenda over a consistent and truthful accounting of human rights violations around the world  softening criticism in some countries while ignoring violations in others.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce defended the administrations version of the report, which U.S. diplomats have compiled for nearly 50 years under a congressional mandate to measure countries adherence to internationally recognized human rights.

The Human Rights Report has been restructured in a way that removes redundancy, increases report readability, and is responsive to the legislative mandates that underpin the report, rather than an expansive list of politically biased demands and assertions, Bruce said. Individual reports are more readable, objective, true to their statutory origins, and more useful than ever before.

Criticism of Europe

In the United Kingdom, France, Germany and other European countries, the Trump administration concluded that the human rights situation worsened during the year. The report cited restrictions on freedom of expression, as well as reports of crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism.

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In Germany, the report found limits on the speech of groups it deemed extremist. In France, the State Department found some limitations on freedom of speech. And the assessment listed restrictions on political speech in the U.K. it deemed hateful or offensive.

The concerns were similar to those Vice President JD Vance expressed in a speech to the Munich Security Conference in February. Vance accused European Union leaders of suppressing free speech, particularly that off far-right groups.

Asked by reporters about the Trump administrations review of visa applicants social media accounts, Bruce said: We consider freedom of expression to be a foundational component of a functioning democracy. Societies are strengthened by free expression of opinion and government censorship is intolerable in a free society.

Support for Brazil's former president

The human rights situation also declined in Brazil last year, the Trump administration concluded, citing court rulings that it called broad and disproportionate action to undermine freedom of speech and internet freedom.

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The government undermined democratic debate by restricting access to online content deemed to undermine democracy, disproportionately suppressing the speech of supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro as well as journalists and elected politicians, often in secret proceedings that lacked due process guarantees, the report says.

Bolsonaro is currently on trial for allegedly plotting to assassinate his rivals to remain in office despite his loss in the 2022 election.

The report also criticizes Supreme Federal Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who has overseen Bolsonaros court case, saying he personally ordered the suspension of more than 100 user profiles on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), disproportionately suppressing the speech of advocates of former president Jair Bolsonaro.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently sanctioned de Moraes, revoking U.S. visas for him and members of his family.

Questioning a South African law

The report found the human rights situation had significantly worsened in South Africa, which Trump has repeatedly criticized since he returned to office. That was in sharp contrast with the State Department human rights report the Biden administration issued last year, which found no significant changes in human rights in South Africa.

The first group of Afrikaners from South Africa to arrive for resettlement after they arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport in Dulles, Va., on May 12. (Saul Loeb / AFP - Getty Images file)

The report called the Expropriation Act, a law that attempts to address the disparity in land ownership between white and Black South Africans, a substantially worrying step towards land expropriation of Afrikaners and further abuses against racial minorities in the country.

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The Trump administration has publicly decried the law, which allows the South African government to expropriate land  in some cases without compensation  in instances where it is unused or there is a public interest in its redistribution. Earlier this year, the administration resettled 59 white South Africans as refugees in the United States as it blocked refugee admissions from almost all other countries.

The government did not take credible steps to investigate, prosecute, and punish officials who committed human rights abuses, the report said, including inflammatory racial rhetoric against Afrikaners and other racial minorities, or violence against racial minorities.

No 'significant' abuses in El Salvador

The report said that in El Salvador, which imprisoned hundreds of migrants from the United States at the request of the Trump administration, there were no credible reports of significant human rights abuses.

But several Venezuelan migrants who had been imprisoned in El Salvadors notorious CECOT prison told NBC News they had experienced physical and psychological torture. One man said he was sexually assaulted.

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The Biden administrations human rights report on El Salvador last year was four times longer than the Trump administrations. It listed several significant human rights issues in the country, including credible reports of unlawful or arbitrary killings; enforced disappearance; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by security forces and harsh and life-threatening prison conditions.

The Trump administrations report also removed the section on Indigenous peoples and made no mention of elections or political participation in El Salvador.

Shorter passages on Israel, the West Bank and Gaza

The Trump administrations reports on Israel, the West Bank and Gaza were also dramatically shorter and had significantly less documentation of abuses by the Israeli government, the Palestinian Authority and Hamas than the Biden administration reports did last year.

Starving Palestinians, including women and children holding pots, wait to receive food distributed by a charity organization in Gaza City on Sunday. (Khames Alrefi / Anadolu via Getty Images)

In assessing Israel, the Trump administration cited reports of arbitrary or unlawful killings, enforced disappearance and degrading treatment of Palestinians by Israeli officials but emphasized that they resulted from the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas. The State Departments findings also concluded that the Israeli government took several credible steps to identify officials who committed human rights abuses, with multiple trials pending at years end.

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The report listed significant human rights abuses by the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, including arbitrary or unlawful killings; torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; arbitrary arrest or detention; serious restrictions on freedom of expression and trafficking in persons, including forced labor; and existence of the worst forms of child labor.

The report also included a detailed description of abuses by Hamas in Gaza, including, unlawful killings, severe physical abuses and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment or punishment.

Regarding human rights abuses by Israeli security forces in the West Bank and Gaza, the report said simply that there have been reports of arbitrary or unlawful killings; and serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom. But it again added that Israeli authorities took steps to identify and punish officials or civilians accused of committing human rights abuses. And it did point out that human rights groups frequently criticized authorities for not adequately pursuing investigations and disciplinary actions.

The report made no direct mention of the Israeli governments restrictions on humanitarian aid into Gaza or documented reports of starvation among some Palestinians this year. But it did highlight that in the West Bank, incidents of Israeli violence against Palestinians and their property reached their highest daily average figure since the United Nations started recording data in 2005.

War crimes allegations against Russia

The Trump administrations assessment of human rights in Russia is less than half as long as the same assessment in the Biden administrations report. Both reports cited allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity and abuses by Russian forces and officials in the Russia-Ukraine war.

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The assessment also pointed to human rights groups concerns domestically, among them that Russian officials used new laws to punish dissent and limit independent expression. It did not dedicate a section to Russian government corruption as the Biden administration did.

The new report said that Russias occupation and purported annexation of Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and four oblasts in eastern Ukraine affected significantly and negatively the human rights situation there. It also described credible reports of politically motivated arrests, detentions, and trials of Ukrainian citizens in Russia, many of whom claimed to have been tortured.

It also called the deportation of thousands of civilians to Russia, including children, a crime against humanity.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore hundreds of UCLA science research grants that were abruptly frozen to punish the university over campus antisemitism findings, a ruling that is the first legal test of whether a wider funding freeze will pass court muster.

In a late Tuesday decision, U.S. District Judge Rita F. Lin of the Northern District of California said the government's latest slashing of UCLA funds violated her June order blocking National Science Foundation research grant terminations throughout the 10-campus system.

She told the Trump administration to file an update by Aug. 19 detailing whether it had restored the grants and if not, "an explanation of why it was not feasible and a description of the steps that have been taken thus far."

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Read more: 'Bring it on, Gavin,' White House says to Newsom on threat to sue over UCLA cuts

The class-action case was filed independently by UC San Francisco and UC Berkeley professors fighting a separate, earlier round of Trump administration science grant clawbacks. The ruling affects only a portion of the recent UCLA cuts, about 300 NSF grants totaling $81 million out of $584 million in suspensions. Hundreds of grants from the National Institutes of Health and Department of Energy are still on hold.

Lin's ruling lands amid a high-stakes conflict involving the nations premier public university system, the Trump administration and increasingly strident statements from Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has warned that California leaders will "never bend the knee" to federal demands. The administration is seeking a $1-billion fine and a host of additional concessions to resolve federal antisemitism findings against the university.

The battle with UC is part of a broader drive by President Trump to remake American higher education, targeting elite universities as bastions of liberalism. Federal officials have accused UCLA of failure to promote a research environment free of antisemitism and alleged discrimination in admissions against white and Asian Americans.

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The UC Board of Regents has not decided whether it will sue over the fine and broader cuts  although Newsom said publicly Trump's demands are tantamount to "extortion" and that he supports a lawsuit against the administration.

In a statement, a UC spokesperson said the restoration of funding in the Tuesday court filing would be "critical" to the university.

"While we have not had an opportunity to review the courts order and were not party to the suit, restoration of National Science Foundation funds is critical to research the University of California performs on behalf of California and the nation," said Stett Holbrook, associate director of strategic and critical communications.

An NSF spokesperson said Wednesday that the the agency had followed the court order to reinstate grants to UCLA. UCLA also sent an email to researchers confirming the restorations.

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A spokesperson for the Department of Justice, which represents the government in the case, declined to comment.

The department is already fighting Lin's June order in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. As of Wednesday, it had not made a filing in the appeal related to Lin's decision on UCLA.

Claudia Polsky, a UC Berkeley law professor representing researchers in the case, said in an interview that she hoped the results would aid UCLA in "resisting" the Trump administration's cuts and its demand that the university pay $1 billion to restore grants.

"Hundreds of UCLA researchers can now get back into labs, into the field, and back on task," said Polsky, who worked with UC Berkeley law school Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and San Francisco law firm Lieff Cabraser on the case. "Further: With hundreds of its suspended grants now ordered reinstated, UCLA should have considerably more leverage than it had this morning in resisting Trump administration demands that wrongly take research hostage for political dealmaking.

How the case was argued

Because the Tuesday order only affects NSF grants, UCLA is still grappling with a massive funding loss.

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The question at the center of the Tuesday hearing was whether the freezes on NSF grants at UCLA were a violation of Lin's June court order that blocked science funding terminations throughout the system.

UC professors funded by the NSF, Environmental Protection Agency and National Endowment for the Humanities had argued they faced cuts because their grants appeared in federal keyword searches related to race amid President Trump's push to rid the government of diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

They also said their funding was removed through the use of generic form letters with no explanation. They argued federal law requires that government officials cite the reasons why money already approved through a competitive application process was taken away.

Lin said she was inclined to agree with researcher arguments while the case proceeded. She issued a preliminary injunction on June 23.

What happened at Tuesday's hearing

On Tuesday, Lin challenged Trump administration lawyers to explain why their latest science cuts at UCLA did not violate her earlier court order.

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"Two weeks ago, NSF went out and, again, used form letters to cut off funding to researchers at UCLA en masse," Lin said. She asked Justice Department lawyers what set apart the most recent cuts from previous ones she enjoined.

Government lawyers replied that the funding freezes were "suspensions," not "terminations," which were the subject of Lin's earlier ruling.

Justice Department lawyer Michael Velchik argued that the grants had been cut so recently that they could not be viewed as "terminations."

"A week is certainly not enough time for this court to adjudicate that a suspension of one week is de facto a termination," Velchik said.

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In her Tuesday order, Lin, a Biden appointee, disagreed.

"NSFs indefinite suspensions differ from a termination in name only," she wrote.

Lin later added: "For avoidance of doubt, the court also clarifies that grant 'termination,' as the term is used in the preliminary Injunction, encompasses circumstances where grant funding is cut off on a long-term or indefinite basis, like the suspensions carried out by NSF on July 30" at UCLA.

Government lawyers also said the Trump administration did not freeze all grants to UCLA but spared some that were "critical" and "important."

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They did not elaborate on which or how many grants those were. This answer came in response to Lin's questions about whether the government was indiscriminately cutting grants  an issue that led her to block terminations earlier in the summer.

Chemerinsky, the UC Berkeley law dean, represented the researchers in oral arguments.

He said at the hearing that the UCLA cuts amounted to "exactly the kind of en masse terminations that the court enjoined previously."

For researchers, Chemerinsky said, the terms "suspension" and "termination" are the same.

"They can no longer pay rent, no longer pay graduate students, no longer pay postdocs. There is no difference," Chemerinsky said.

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Read more: Trump seeks $1-billion fine against UCLA. Newsom says 'we'll sue,' calling it extortion

The Berkeley professor accused the government of "holding hostage all the individual grants to try to coerce UCLA into a settlement."

Velchik disagreed.

"There are legitimate and bona fide concerns that the government has with the conduct that has taken place at UCLA," he said, saying the university has had "gross and horrific" antisemitism and also mentioning allegations of "racial preferences" at the UCLA medical school.

Aradna Tripati, a UCLA professor of climate science and geochemistry and director of the Center for Developing Leadership in Science, expects two suspended grants restored as a result of Lin's order. One covers environmental research in the Southwest and the other trains veterans who want to work in science, technology, engineering and math fields.

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"The recent victory halting federal cuts to the UC system is one we should all be celebrating," Tripati said. "UCLA and public universities are a public good, serving students from all backgrounds and communities, employing people, and supporting discovery and applied work that translates into better economic outcomes and lives for everyone."

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.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged citizens to protect their voting rights and raise their voices against alleged electoral malpractices. Sharing a fictional video on X, he said, "Do not let your right to vote be snatched away, Ask questions, demand answers, this time! Raise your voice against #VoteChori, Free constitutional institutions from the clutches of BJP!" The Congress leader showed how two people (purportedly from the Bharatiya Janata Party) collude with the Election Commission officers to cast a vote in another's name. In the video, two people, purportedly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are seen just coming back from the booth after casting a fake vote, with one of them saying "this is such a good arrangement, victory is assured now." However, when the real voter comes with his voter ID card, showing him to be the real 50-year-old 'Garib Das' looking to cast his vote, he is told to go back as his vote has already been cast. Similarly, when the real voter's wife asks about her vote, she is told that her vote has been cast by the other person. Ultimately, the people are seen going back without exercising their universal adult franchise. Ultimately, the two people are also seen colluding with the Booth Level Officer (BLO), with the video taking a jibe at the Election Commission of India too, terming it as the 'Election chori aayog.' Similarly, Congress MP and leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, sharing the same video, continued his attack on the Centre, saying that with the theft of one's vote also is a theft of one's rights and the theft of one's Identity. Earlier on August 12, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge chaired the AICC general secretaries, state in-charges and heads of frontal organisations meeting to discuss a nationwide campaign against alleged voter list manipulation and election fraud. The meeting was attended by LS LoP Rahul Gandhi too. Other that the LoP, party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sachin Pilot, KC Venugopal, Kumari Selja and others attended the meeting. Earlier on Tuesday, workers of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) marched from the organisation's headquarters in Delhi to Jantar Mantar, protesting against the Election Commission over alleged voter list manipulation. The protest was in response to repeated allegations by Rahul Gandhi accusing the Commission of "vote chori" (vote theft). Youth Congress activists also held a 'Halla Bol March' in the national capital, during which several protestors were detained by Delhi Police. The LS LoP has also accused the ECI of neglecting its duty, asserting that the Congress party is committed to protecting the Constitution and will continue to do. He stated that ECI has failed to enforce the principle of "One Man, One Vote," which he described as the foundation of the Constitution.(ANI)
The State Department released its long-awaited reports on international human rights on Tuesday, eliminating entire sections on discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, women and racial and ethnic minorities in countries with long track records of human rights abuses.

Former State Department employees who oversaw the reports, which cover human rights for the 2024 year, said on Tuesday they were deeply disturbed by these omissions. The exclusion of LGBTQ+ rights in particular could make it more challenging for LGBTQ+ asylum-seekers around the world to prove their experiences of abuse before immigration courts domestically and abroad.

Related: Trump's Immigration Agenda Is Making Things Even Worse For Domestic Violence Victims

Jessica Stern, the former U.S. special envoy to advance the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons under the Biden administration, told reporters at a press briefing that she was horrified and couldnt believe how systematically LGBTQ+ people were deleted.

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Stern is the second person to hold the special envoy for LGBTQ+ rights role, which remains vacant under the Trump administration. She is also one of the co-founders of the Alliance for Diplomacy and Justice, a new initiative of former ambassadors and special envoys within the State Department who are fighting Trumps cuts to foreign assistance.

In the Trump administrations report for Uganda, there is no reference to LGBTQ+ people or the countrys anti-homosexuality law, which penalizes same-sex conduct between adults with the death penalty and life imprisonment. Instead, there is one mention of Ugandan government officials committing acts of sexual violence, including forcing people to undergo anal examinations following their arrests.

I know that refers to the victims who were targeted based on their [LGBTQ+] identity, but it does not say that they were targeted based on their identity, Stern said. By contrast, the 2023 report includes 45 references to abuses against LGBTQI+ people.Obviously, that much progress is not possible in a year, she said, it shows the systematic removal of this area of concern.

Similarly, the Trump administrations report for Brazil, which has the highest number of murders of trans people in the world, does not include any reference to trans people.

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The reports, which have been mandated by Congress since 1977, were due to be released in March. Historically, they document the state of human rights worldwide and have helped determine foreign assistance efforts, informing diplomats and foreign leaders alike. But this year, the release was stalled for months because the Trump administration decided to adjust the reports that were compiled during the Biden administration.

Related: Wall Street Journal Gives Trump A Stern Warning

The State Department said the reports were streamlined for better utility and accessibility, but former State Department employees believe that they deliberately exclude specific accounts by survivors and witnesses of abuse for political reasons.

The reports dont only exclude mentions of LGBTQ+ rights, but remove reference to Indigenous people, people of African descent, people in lower castes and anyone who is not white, Christian, male or straight, saidDesiree Cormier Smith, the former special representative for racial equity and justice under President Biden. The Hungary report, for example, says there is no credible evidence of significant human rights abuses, despite the countrys long track record of discrimination against the Roma people and the passage of a ban on LGBTQ events by the far-right Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is a friend of Trump.

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That to me shows who this administration values, Cormier Smith said.

The White House and the State Department didnt immediately respond to requests for comment from HuffPost.

In the section about El Salvador, the State Department also determines that there were no significant changes in the human rights situation. Yet in 2024, human rights advocates were drawing attention to the 261 people who died due to torture and unhealthy conditions in El Salvadors prisons. Trump went on to secure a multimillion-dollar deal with El Salvadors President Nayib Bukele to house 252 Venezuelan men at the countrys notorious CECOT prison after they were deported from the U.S. One man detained in CECOT recounted to HuffPost his experiences of physical and psychological abuse.

Clearly, the Trump administration is willing to pull punches when it comes to governments that were friendly with, cooperating with, or who are cooperating with us, and where the Trump administration has political axes to grind, it has ramped up its criticism, Scott Busby, a senior adviser at Human Rights First, told HuffPost. Until 2023, Busby was the deputy assistant secretary of state in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor at the State Department.

Related: Human Rights Groups File Emergency Petition Over Trump Expulsions To Salvadoran Mega-Prison

Former State Department employees  many of whom oversaw and drafted these reports under the Biden and Obama administrations  said the erasure of these abuses against LGBTQ+ people and women, and the easing of criticism for countries where Trump has close political relationships, reflects the politicization of what constitutes human rights under this administration.

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This is deliberate erasure, and its erasure that undermines the credibility of U.S. human rights reporting, abandons survivors and really just tells perpetrators that their crimes will go unreported and unpunished, Stern said.

Stern noted that the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in these human rights reports was relatively new. In 2011, under the Obama administration, then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton began including updates about LGBTQ+ human rights in the annual reports, alongside taking other diplomatic actions to investigate human rights abuses.

Over time, the reports have come to be used as evidence in asylum proceedings to determine whether LGBTQ+ people fleeing discrimination and harassment had reasonable grounds for their petition.

The standard for determining whether someone deserves asylum or is a refugee is if they have a well-founded fear of persecution. So these reports historically have been critical in documenting the conditions that people are experiencing in their countries, Busby said.

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Earlier in Busbys career, he served as an asylum officer and said that other democracies, including Canada and the United Kingdom, would use these country reports to decide the outcome of asylum cases. In some instances, Stern said, the United States human rights reports were the only source considered trustworthy in asylum proceedings.

Now, with the omissions on LGBTQ+ human rights, Stern said that she believes LGBTQ+ asylum seekers are going to have their claims denied.

More LGBTQIA+ people are going to be forced to stay in dangerous situations, she said. LGBTQ people are not going to disappear just because they are erased from these pages, but unfortunately, as a result of the reports, justice will be delayed and lives will be lost when their suffering is buried. 

Related: Ashley Biden Posts About 'Freedom' Multiple Times After Court Maneuver

Geeta Rao Gupta, the former U.S. ambassador for global womens issues, said that the Trump administrations cuts to the reports should alarm not only the international diplomatic community, but also everyday Americans.

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This is not just about what happens abroad, this is about how this comes back to us as Americans, how it affects our national security, our economy, Gupta said. All of these things have repercussions for us.

CORRECTION: This story has been amended to reflect the correct year that Busby left his post at the State Department.

More on Politics

Newsom Says California Will Redraw Its BEAUTIFUL MAPS In All-Caps Post Mocking Trump

UN Human Rights Chief Rings Alarm Bells On Trump's Use Of Salvadoran Prison

Melania Trump Demands Hunter Biden Retract 'Extremely Salacious' Epstein Comments

Read the original on HuffPost
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Trump administration is threatening to jail people experiencing homelessness if they dont move off city streets.

Many homeless advocates are worried about the increased policing, while some think that something needs to be done.

To the west of the U.S. Institute of Peace and close to the Kennedy Center is a homeless encampment.

George Morgan, who lives in one of the tents, agrees there are too many people living on the streets.

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It signifies to the middle class and the upper class that America is struggling, Morgan said.

National Guard members arrive in DC as President Trump declares a public safety emergency

People are living in tents for various reasons, but President Trump has said they have to move out.

Homeless individuals will be given the option to leave their encampment, to be taken to a homeless shelter, to be offered addiction or mental health services, said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. And if they refuse, they will be susceptible to fines or to jail time.

Franklin Haskins has been living outside for 10 years.

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His first term, they were there, he wasnt kicking em out, was he? No, Haskins said.

Hes not too bothered by Trumps takeover of D.C. police and the order to clear encampments.

Hes a bully, OK, big deal. What else you want me to say? Haskins said. You move em from place to place and sometimes they come right back to the same place, you know, and all these organizations, churches or whatever, they all know about all this stuff. Theyre a product of it All these entities are making money off the homeless as well.

Since Trumps executive order was signed in March, the U.S. Park Police have removed 70 homeless encampments.

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There are only two homeless encampments remaining in DC federal parks under the National Park Services jurisdiction, and the removal of those two remaining camps is scheduled for this week, Leavitt said.

DC leaders react after Trump places DC police under federal control

Trump said he wants them far from the capital. Thats something local organizations say is very problematic.

By shipping them, youre just moving the problem somewhere else in an amplified way, putting them in a place thats less prepared to deal with them than we are here in the District, said Ralph Boyd, president and CEO of So Others Might Eat (SOME).

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That said, Boyd said its a good thing the national conversation about homelessness has been elevated.

I view the presidents focus on this as an invitation to come to the table to problem solve. And the more people that want to work on this collaborative, we invite them, Boyd said.

Leavitt said they are enforcing current D.C. laws, and theyre exploring how they could move people away from D.C.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
President Trump met virtually today with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and other European leaders ahead of his summit on Friday with Russia President Putin in Alaska. Washington Post Columnist Max Boot and former Under Secretary of State of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Richard Stengel join Katy Tur to provide more insight on negotiations.
Germanys rising populist right-wing party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has beaten out Chancellor Friedrich Merzs Christian Democratic Union (CDU), a mainstream conservative party, in popularity in a new survey.

AFD garnered 26% of support in the poll put out by the Forsa Institute for Social Research and Statistical Analysis. Merzs CDU got 24% of support, its worst result since the 2021 election, according to the poll.

This comes as 67% of Germans say they are dissatisfied with Merzs job after his first 100 days in office, the poll said. He was elected in May.

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Germany's Merz To 'Adapt' To Trump During High-stakes Meeting On Tariffs, Defense

Alternative for Germany rally last year.

AfD is now the leading opposition party in Germanys Bundestag.

Earlier this year, the party, led by Alice Weidel, was classified as "extremist" by Germanys intelligence agency.

Read On The Fox News App

German Conservative Leader Elected Chancellor After Historic First-round Loss

Alternative for Germany leader Alice Weidel.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio decried the decision, calling it "tyranny in disguise."

"Germany just gave its spy agency new powers to surveil the opposition," Rubio posted on X at the time. "Thats not democracyits tyranny in disguise. What is truly extremist is not the popular AfDwhich took second in the recent electionbut rather the establishments deadly open border immigration policies that the AfD opposes. Germany should reverse course."

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The party was founded in 2013 as an anti-euro movement, but since then has taken a hard-right stance on issues like immigration and Islam.

Elon Musk waves speaks live via a video transmission during a speech by Alice Weidel last year.

Across Europe, other right-wing groups are gaining in popularity, including Nigel Farages Reform UK and the National Rally party in France.





Original article source: Trump-backed populist party tops polls for first time, following trend in other allied countries
(The Center Square) - President Donald Trump condemned the possibility of building low-income housing in the Pacific Palisades, and the City of Los Angeless slow issuance of rebuilding permits for the fire-ravaged community.

"You see whats happening now, they didn't get their permits," said President Trump at a press conference Monday. This is among the most beautiful areas  was  in the country. Now they're talking about putting low-income housing there, can you believe this?"

In January, the Palisades Fire destroyed 6,837 structures and burned 23,448 acres. According to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Basss latest rebuilding update from the end of July  almost seven months after the fire, nearly 300 rebuilding plans have been approved by the city.

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Last month, California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced $101 million in funding for multifamily low-income housing development as a rebuilding measure that will contribute to a more equitable and resilient Los Angeles." The funding notice assigned priority to projects with geographic proximity to the fire perimeters of the Eaton, Hughes, and Palisades fires.

Earlier this year, The Center Square broke news that Los Angeles City Ordinance 188481 would require that older, fire-destroyed apartments in the Pacific Palisades be replaced with low-income housing; before the fire, the median Pacific Palisades home listed for $4.6 million.

When The Center Square contacted Los Angeles City Councilmember Traci Park, who represents the Pacific Palisades, regarding the presidents comments, her staff pointed out that both Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have signed executive orders waiving state and local requirements that certain destroyed housing be replaced with low-income units.

However, these waivers only apply to the City of Los Angeles, meaning the states replacement requirements are still in effect for the rest of Los Angeles County, where otherwise applicable  such as parts of the Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre communities destroyed by the Eaton Fire. That fire struck at the same time as the Palisades Fire and burned 9,414 structures.
US President Donald Trump has criticised the media for the biased coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Source: Trump on the social network Truth Social, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The head of the White House was outraged by how the media is presenting the upcoming summit with the Kremlin leader.

"Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, 'Putin has already won'," Donald Trump wrote.

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Instead, he underlined that the US is "winning in everything" and that information from the fake media cannot be trusted.

"If I got Moscow and Leningrad [St Petersburg  ed.] for free, as part of the deal with Russia, the fake news would say that I made a bad deal... They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our country. But it doesn't matter because we are winning on everything!" Trump wrote.

Background:

US President Donald Trump and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on 15 August.

CNN reports that Trump and Putin will meet at a military base, although the White House wanted to avoid this.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Larry Krasner thinks Donald Trumps decision to take control of Washington, D.C.s police force has nothing to do with crime and everything to do with a criminal.

In an interview with CNNs Kaitlan Collins on Tuesday, the Philadelphia district attorney said the presidents capital city crackdown was meant to distract from his association with the notorious financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Lets not get lost in his silly argument, his silly distraction, from the fact that he doesnt want to give up information on his own involvement in a pedophile ring, Krasner said. Did we all forget about that?

Krasner: So let's not get lost in his silly argument. His silly distraction from the fact that he doesn't want to give up information on his own involvement in a pedophile ring. Did we all forget about that? pic.twitter.com/MU6o2BUcP0  Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025

While announcing his plans to take control of the Metropolitan Police Department and deploy the D.C. National Guard, Trump threatened similar federal takeovers of Democrat-led cities like Chicago and Baltimore. Krasner, a frequent critic of Trump and his cronies, stopped by the network to cry foul and warn the president away from trying a similar move in Philadelphia.

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This is a normalization of troops being deployed to do what they should not be asked to do, what theyre not equipped to do, and what violates the Constitution and laws, Krasner said. This is a profoundly un-American attempt to exercise power in ways that are illegal, to scare big cities and to go after Democratic cities that are diverse, to serve his racist, fascist agenda.

Start your day with essential news from Salon.

Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Krasner is not the first attorney general to speak out against Trumps D.C. takeover. The citys own attorney general called Trumps actions unprecedented, unnecessary, and unlawful on Monday.

There is no crime emergency in the District of Columbia, Brian Schwalb shared on X. Violent crime in DC reached historic 30-year lows last year, and is down another 26% so far this year.

The post Trumps DC gambit is distraction from his involvement in pedophile ring, Philly DA says appeared first on Salon.com.
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For nearly half a century, the State Department has reported annually on human-rights conditions in countries around the world. The purpose of this exercise is not to cast aspersions, but to collect and disseminate reliable information. Congress mandated the reports back in 1977, and since then, legislators and diplomats have used them to shape decisions about sanctions, foreign aid, immigration, and political asylum.

Because the reports were perceived as relatively impartial, because they tried to reflect well-articulated standardsinternationally recognized individual, civil, political, and worker rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rightsand because they were composed by professionals reporting from the ground, the annual documents became a gold standard, widely used by people around the world, cited in court cases and political campaigns. Year in and year out, one former official told me, they have been the most downloaded items on the State Department website.

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Quite a few people will also read the 2024 reports, published yesterday. But they will do so for very different reasons. The original drafts were ready in January, before the Biden administration left office, following the usual practice. In past years, the reports were published in March or April. But this year they were delayed for several months while President Donald Trumps political appointees, including Michael Anton, the MAGA intellectual who is now the State Departments director of policy planning, rewrote the drafts.

Some of the changes affect the whole collection of documents, as entire categories of interest were removed. The Obama administration had previously put a strong focus on corruption, on the grounds that kleptocracy and autocracy are deeply linked, and it started collecting information on the persecution of sexual minorities. Over the past few weeks, as the new reports were being prepared, I spoke with former officials who had seen early versions, or who had worked on the reports in the past. As many of them expected, the latest reports do not address systemic discrimination against gay or trans people, and they remove observations about rape and violence against women.

But the revisions also go much further than expected, dropping references to corruption, restrictions on free and fair elections, rights to a fair trial, and the harassment of human-rights organizations. Threats to freedom of assembly are no longer considered sufficiently important to mention. In a number of instances, criticism of Israel is classified, crudely, as antisemitism. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas use of the word genocide to describe the war in Gaza, for example, is listed as an act of antisemitism and antisemitic incitement, even though that term, however disputable or controversial, has also been used by Israelis and in any case violates no international human-rights norms at all.

[Jonathan Chait: The pro-Israel right is shifting the definition of anti-Semitism]

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Along with the category changes, entries for 20 countries were also flagged for special consideration. These were sent for review to Samuel Samson, a political appointee in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. Dozens of professionals have been fired or removed from that office, widely known as DRL; Samsonwho is, according to NPR, a recent college graduate and an alumnus of a program designed to put conservative activists into government jobsremains. The end result of his and others efforts is reports that contain harsh and surprising assessments of democratic U.S. allies, including the U.K., Romania, Germany, and Brazil, and softer depictions of some dictatorships and other countries favored by Trump or his entourage. El Salvador and Israel, I was told, required so much rewriting that these two entries help explain the long delay in the reports publication.

Reading the results, you can see why. The new Israel report is simply far shorter than the original draft, with no significant discussion of the humanitarian crisis or high death toll in Gaza. El Salvador is a blatant whitewash. There were no credible reports of significant human rights abuses, the latest report claims. By contrast, the previous report spoke of significant human rights issues and specifically mentioned harsh, even lethal prison conditions. An Amnesty International report also covering 2024 speaks of arbitrary detentions and human rights violations in El Salvador, as well as serious failings in the judicial system. In overcrowded prisons, detention conditions were inhumane, with reports of torture and other ill-treatment. Here, the State Departments motivation is not hard to guess. Because the Trump administration is sending prisoners to El Salvador, the department massaged the report to avoid the glaring truth: The U.S. is endangering people by sending them to Salvadoran prisons.

The report on Germany, a highly functional democracy, is equally strange. The State report speaks of significant human rights issues, including restrictions on freedom of expression. One specific example: German law required internet companies, including U.S. internet platforms, to take down hate speech within 24 hours or face stiff fines. Germans, in other words, are being called human-rights abusers because they continue to outlaw Nazi propaganda, as they have done since 1945. The Trump administrations motives are clear here too. The goal is to please U.S. tech companies, notably X, that find it convenient or profitable to spread Nazi propaganda, and perhaps to help the Alternative for Germany, the far-right party publicly praised and courted by J. D. Vance.

But the details of the reports are less important than the overall impact. Several former officials pointed out that the U.S. has not only abandoned internationally accepted definitions of what is meant by rights, but also any objectivity or consistency. Original reporting from embassies has been removed, replaced with language clearlyand in a few cases ludicrouslymanipulated by political appointees. This is very bad for human-rights defenders in places like Cuba or China, where activists in the past used U.S. language and reporting to make arguments to their own governments or to international institutions.

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[From the May 2025 issue: Americas future is Hungary]

None of them can now claim that the State Department Human Rights Report has any factual standing, or indeed that any U.S.-government document on human rights is an objective measure of anything. This essentially says the United States is no longer your ally, that the United States doesnt see clearly beyond the rhetoric of your regime, one former official who still has relationships with DRL told me. And I think thats really, really tragic.

In truth, some of the changes seem designed not so much to shape U.S. foreign policy as to shape U.S. domestic policy. Christopher Le Mon, a former DRL official, told me he thinks that the domestic political agenda is really the organizing principle here. He might be right. The administration is saying, after all, that it no longer finds electoral cheating or manipulation to be a problem; it doesnt think the harassment of civic groups is a bad thing; it doesnt object to discrimination against women or sexual minorities; and it will never demand transparency or accountability from the providers of internet algorithms, no matter what they choose to amplify or promote. The reports authors, who include some of the most ideological people in the administration, are also telling Americans what they think of the standards that both Republicans and Democrats have held up for years. Now, says Le Mon, theyre making it that much easier to just erase human rights from what has been a long-standing, relatively bipartisan history in U.S. foreign policy.

Ironically, this shift in American language puts the U.S. directly in alliance with China, whose diplomats have been campaigning for years to change the diplomatic discourse about human rights. Christopher Walker, the author of an influential paper on Chinese influence campaigns, which he calls sharp power, told me that the Chinese Communist Party has been seeking to neuter or muddy the waters around international discussions of fundamental human rights. From Beijings point of view, the more such language is emasculated, the greater the CCPs competitive advantage, he said. Russians, North Koreans, Iranians, Cubans, and others will also find this shift an immense relief.

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We knew this was coming. In a speech in Riyadh earlier this year, Trump flagged Americas new indifference to human rights, promising the Saudis and other Middle Eastern monarchs that America would stop giving you lectures on how to live and how to govern your own affairs. That made it sound like the administration would be somehow neutral. But as Walker pointed out, in a world of intense ideological competition, there is no such thing as neutrality. Debates about the definition of human rights will continue. The U.S. will simply play a different role in them. Tom Malinowski, a former representative who once ran the DRL bureau, puts it best. The reports, he told me, show that the U.S. still has a values-based foreign policy, but with twisted values. Americans are giving plenty of lectures to other people on how to live, but to different people and with a different result.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Donald Trump did not like being called out by Emmanuel Macron during a high-stakes call with European leaders, ahead of his bilateral meeting with Vladimir Putin.

The French president took very tough positions, and reportedly told Trump Wednesday that a meeting was a very big thing to give Putin, sources familiar with the call told Axios.

"Trump didn't like that, the source added.

The U.S. president is set to meet with his authoritarian Russian counterpart on Friday in Alaska, the first time Putin has set foot on American soil since 2015. The pair will discuss bringing about an end to the Russian war in Ukraine, which has raged since February 2022.

The French president took very tough positions, and reportedly told Trump Wednesday that a meeting was a very big thing to give Putin (Getty Images)

Trump told the European leaders, which included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, that his goals for the summit were to secure a ceasefire and to better understand whether a full peace is possible.

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As well as Macrons hardline position, Axios reported that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte were both "very active" on the call, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni "raised some good points."

Zelensky, who at this stage will not be present at Fridays meeting, told Trump that Putin cannot be trusted, the outlets source added.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting on Wednesday, Trump said that he could not guarantee success on the ceasefire, and his administration previously described the meeting as a

The U.S. president is due to meet with his Russian counterpart on Friday in Alaska, the first time Putin has set foot on American soil since 2015. The pair will discuss bringing about an end to the Russia/ Ukraine war which has raged since February 2022 (Reuters)

However, Trump also added that Putin would face severe consequences if the Russian leader does not agree to a ceasefire, though he did not specify exactly what those consequences would be.

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Russia is likely to resist Ukraine and Europe's demands strongly and previously said its stance had not changed since it was set out by Putin in June 2024.

When asked if Russia would face any consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war after Fridays meeting, Trump responded: Yes, they will. Asked if those consequences would be sanctions or tariffs, Trump told reporters: I don't have to say, there will be very severe consequences."

Trump told the European leaders, which included Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky (right) that his goals for the summit were to get a ceasefire and to better understand whether a full peace would be possible.

The president also described another aim of the meeting as "setting the table" for a quick follow-up that would include Zelensky. "If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," he said.

"I would like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskiy and myself, if they'd like to have me there."

Trump did not provide a time frame for a second meeting.
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham is advising President Donald Trump to hold off endorsing in the governors race, at least for now.

The president asked, I said, just kind of let it play out a bit,  Graham told reporters ahead of Saturdays Silver Elephant gala, a South Carolina Republican Party fundraiser.

I doubt if he would (endorse). Just wait and see what happens if theres a runoff, Graham added.

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The race for governor includes five Republicans vying to succeed Gov. Henry McMaster, who cant run for reelection in 2026.

With early polling showing none of the hopefuls near to the majority support needed to clinch the nomination, a runoff is expected.

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, state Sen. Josh Kimbrell, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman and Attorney General Alan Wilson have jumped into race for the Republican nomination for governor. Because South Carolina votes reliably Republican in statewide elections, winning the GOP nomination is expected to be the election.

Receiving Trumps endorsement may be the key to winning the nomination as the president remains popular in the state. He carried in the 2016, 2020 and 2024 general elections and won in the 2016 and 2024 Republican presidential primaries. The president may be looking to see who can win the race and raise the necessary cash for a campaign before weighing in.

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In 2018, Trump endorsed McMaster ahead of the primary and campaigned with him ahead of the runoff.

Graham said he expects the 2026 GOP race for governor to go to a runoff, and he said he, too, doesnt expect to endorse anyone in the race.

I just know them all, wish him all well, Graham said.

Reporter Lucy Valeski contributed to this article.
Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Wednesday condemned the alleged assault on a resident doctor at the casualty ward of Delhi's Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC) calling for an FIR to be registered for the incident and increasing security at 'sensitive areas' such as the casualty and emergency department of the LHMC and the Kalawati Saran Children's hospital. The Association has also called for restrictions on entry points of the hospital, with controlled access to maintain order and safety. LHMC's Resident Doctor's Association addressed a letter to the Director of the hospital, presenting three demands for improving safety of doctors and withdrawing from elective services until the demands are met. "A resident doctor at LHMC was assaulted by a mob in casualty. This is unacceptable. FORDA stands firmly with LHMC RDA in demanding immediate action, stronger security & institutional FIR. Protect those who protect lives," the association posted on X. President of RDA LHMC, Sarada Prasad Sahoo addressing the letter to the hospital director and the principal of the medical college too, presented their demands: "1. Increase in the number of bouncers/security presented in sensitive areas such as the casualty/emergency departments of both Lady Hardinge Medical College and Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital. 2 Registration of an institutional FIR against all culprits involved in the assault. 3. Restrictions of entry points with controlled access, and allowing only a limited number of attendants per patient in emergencies to maintain order and safety." "Accordingly, resident doctors are hereby withdrawing their services from all elective services with immediate effect. The withdrawal will remain in force until our following demands are met," the letter added. The doctors clarified that emergency services will still continue as before, "to avoid any compromise in critical patient care." The letter added, "We seek your urgent intervention to address these demands, ensure the safety of all healthcare providers, and prevent any recurrence of such incidents." (ANI)
Who controls the present controls the past. - George Orwell, 1984

A Donald Trump-ordered review of the Smithsonian Institutions exhibits to ensure they align with a presidential directive to celebrate American exceptionalism reeks of Soviet-era propaganda, David Axelrod warned on CNN Tuesday.

The political consultant and former senior adviser to President Barack Obama dwelled on the directive with host Anderson Cooper and concluded its unmistakably Stalinist.

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This has just kind of a Soviet feel to it, a Stalinist feel to it, that you just ... take over cultural institutions and historical institutions and you try and rewrite history, Axelrod said.

Ruthless Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin built an extensive propaganda machine to rewrite the past, obfuscate the truth and promote himself as a benevolent leader even as he mismanaged the Soviet economy, resulting in mass famine, and sent millions of people to forced labor camps known as gulags.

Related: GOP Senator Spills On The Illegal Measure He Takes To Deal With DC Crime Fears

This is a president who is rewriting history every day, Axelrod said of Trump. And he believes that you can do that. You know, when crime is up, no, crime is down. Things cost less. No, things cost more. I mean, this goes on and on.

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Trump recently federalized the Washington, D.C., police and deployed National Guard troops there after lying about crime rates in the nations capital.

The week prior, he fired Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner Dr. Erika McEntarfer after data collected by the nonpartisan agency showed Trumps economic policies had delivered the worst three months of job growth since the coronavirus pandemic.

Trump has since nominated Heritage Foundation chief economist E.J. Antoni for the job, who believes the BLS should stop releasing monthly jobs data altogether.

Related: Wall Street Journal Gives Trump A Stern Warning

Those moves align with other Soviet-flavored developments, like the Smithsonian removing references to Donald Trumps 2019 and 2021 impeachments (while denying the White House pressured it to do so), and the governments annotated copy of the U.S. Constitution mysteriously being edited to omit sections explaining the limits of federal power and references to habeas corpus.

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Axelrod closed with a reflection on what the nations founders might think of Trump, noting the absurdity of his attempting to rewrite history in honor of Americas 250th anniversary.

The irony ... is that in this instance, he said, this is all around the 250th anniversary of our founding fathers declaring themselves free of a mad king.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Ahead of President Donald Trump's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, the European Union will have a call with him Wednesday to remind him that he shouldn't negotiate without Ukraine.

The call on Wednesday, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, will include Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders who are friendly with Trump, like Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Zelensky will be in Berlin for the meeting, his office said on Wednesday, and is expected to later brief reporters with Merz.

At the Friday meeting in Alaska, Trump will meet with Putin to try to end the war with Ukraine. But Zelensky hasn't been invited.

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"We cannot accept that territorial issues between Russia and America are discussed or even decided over the heads of Europeans, over the heads of Ukrainians," Merz said in a TV interview Sunday. "I assume that the American government sees it the same way. That is why there is this close coordination."

Merz, a center-right politician, has heavily courted Trump since taking office in May. He has tried to impress upon Trump that if the United States were to boldly intervene on behalf of Ukraine, it could drive Putin into a cease-fire and peace talks.

Trump's recent frustration with Russia's repeated bombing of Ukraine has made him more receptive to Merz's pleas. But this week, he told reporters he wanted to see what Putin had on his mind, and if he could broker "a deal," which could include swaps of land held by Ukraine and Russia.

But peace on bad terms for Putin might encourage him to send troops to another neighbor and threaten Europe.

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"It's really a concern that Putin might feel emboldened," Anna Sauerbrey, foreign editor for Germany's Die Zeit newspaper, told The New York Times. "Not to go for Berlin, of course, but to cause some unrest in other Baltic countries, other European countries."

Europe's leaders seemed optimistic that Trump will hear their pleas and take Europe's needs into consideration.

The EU on Tuesday demanded that the Ukrainian people should determine their own future and that no peace deal with Russia could be decided without Ukraine at the table. Hungary disavowed itself from the calls.

Leaders of 26 of 27 European Union nations said in a statement that viable negotiations must be within the framework of a cease-fire or easing of hostilities and warned of the threat the war posed to European and international security.

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There appears to be "more of an understanding from the Americans that you can't just go for land swaps which would somehow give a prize to Russia," said one European Union official, who was granted anonymity by the Washington Post. But, the official said, "it's clear that there are sort of discrepancies, and as we've seen it in the U.S. system by now, you have one man who will decide."

Trump told reporters Monday that "It's not up to me to make a deal," echoing what Europe is saying, that Ukraine must be part of the negotiations.

"I guess everyone's afraid Putin will play Trump's ego again like he has in the past," said a second European official to the Washington Post. "Who knows, maybe he comes there with another noble-sounding offer or maybe they give [Trump] some state award."
Sudden federal takeovers of Americas cities will apparently be the new normal under the Trump administration.

Several government officials, including one senior administration official, told Rolling Stone Wednesday that it is now a priority to normalize military deployments to cities across the country.

Trump deployed 800 National Guard members to Washington Monday, federalizing the capitals police department to combat what he described as a crime-riddled hellscape. To justify the government infringement, the countrys most powerful Republican pointed to rising crime rates, immigrant populations, and homelessnessthough the figures he used were from 2023, before violent crime plummeted across the nation.

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Hes gonna do more of them, one Trump administration official told Rolling Stone, referring to wielding the military against the nations metropolises. He promised he would do this and now hes following through on those promises.

During a press conference Monday announcing the imminent takeover, Trump warned that several of Americas liberal bastions could experience the same fate.

We have other cities also that are bad. Very bad. You look at Chicago, how bad it is. You look at Los Angeles, how bad it is. We have other cities that are very bad. New York has a problem. And then, of course, you have Baltimore and Oakland. You dont even mention them anymore, theyre so far gone, Trump said, before promising that Washington would be cleaned up very quick.

When asked explicitly if other cities were next on his list, Trump said, Were just going to see what happens. Were going to have tremendous success with what were doing.

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Other cities are hopefully watching this  and maybe theyll self-clean up and maybe theyll self-do this and get rid of the cashless bail thing and all the things that caused the problem, he continued.Were going to look at New York in a little while. Lets do this together.

Other members of the administration quickly picked up on the rhetoric. Speaking with Fox Business on Tuesday, assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin claimed that the White Houses efforts to forcibly clean up what she described as a plague of crime could be a blueprint for more federal takeovers across the country.

Speaking with Fox News that same day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth refused to acknowledge a time limit on Trumps capital takeover.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday suggested that he could avoid congressional approval to extend his 30-day federal takeover of Washingtons police, amid his efforts to wrest control of the capitals law enforcement.

Trump this week invoked the Home Rule Act, effectively handing the executive branch control over Washingtons police for up to 30 days. Beyond that, Trump would have to go through Congress for an extension authorization.

But during his speech announcing the 2025 Kennedy Center honorees on Wednesday, Trump repeatedly floated circumventing Congress to maintain his hold over the citys law enforcement.

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If it's a national emergency we can do it without Congress, but we expect to be before Congress very quickly, Trump said.

Trump appeared to be banking on the support of congressional Republicans to push through any attempt to extend the 30 day takeover  but maintained that if lawmakers failed to approve the extension, he would go forward with the move on his own by declaring a national emergency.

I don't want to call a national emergency, Trump said, before adding, If I have to, I will.

Trump also announced that he was working with congressional Republicans to put forward a crime bill initially targeted at Washington but intended as a beacon for other Democratic cities such as New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

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We're going to need a crime bill that we're going to be putting in, and it's going to pertain initially to D.C., Trump said. We're going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you can't have 30 days.

California already felt the repercussions of the Trump administrations targeting earlier this summer, when the president deployed the National Guard to help quell protests against immigration detention sweeps in Los Angeles.

Trump on Monday announced that he was taking control over Washingtons police force and deploying the National Guard to patrol the citys streets. Citing a rise in violent crime  which local leaders have disputed, pointing to statistics showing the city hitting a 30-year low last year  Trump declared that Monday was Liberation Day for the city, and invoked a never-been-used statute of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act allowing the president to take control over the local police in cases of emergency.

So far, D.C. leadership has been playing nice with the president, with Mayor Muriel Bowser calling the move unsettling and unprecedented  but still saying the city would comply with Trumps order.

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The president on Wednesday added that he would be going to Congress for a relatively small amount of money to fix up the nations capital, including fixing potholes and getting rid of medians in the citys roads.

Asked about the prospect of D.C. statehood, which the citys leaders have long pushed for without success, Trump called the efforts ridiculous and unacceptable, saying the overwhelmingly blue city would pick up two senators, and that's not going to happen.
US President Donald Trump has said that if his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska is successful, he will arrange a second meeting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be invited to attend.

Source: The Guardian, citing Trump after a conversation with Zelenskyy, EU leaders and NATO secretary general, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Trump gave a positive assessment of the conversation that took place on 13 August.

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The US president said that "theres a very good chance" that he will hold a second meeting with Putin "which will be more productive than the first, because the first is [where] Im going to find out where we are and what were doing".

Quote from Trump: "The second meeting, if the first one goes okay, well have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately. And well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskyy and myself, if theyd like to have me there, and that would be a meeting where maybe it could be absolutely work [it out] but  certain great things can be gained in the first [meeting], its going to be a very important meeting, but its setting the table for the second meeting." [N.B. Ukrainska Pravda doesn't recognise Putin as president  ed.]

More details: Meanwhile, the American president stressed that the second meeting may not take place at all if he decides "its not appropriate to have it" because "I didnt get the answers that we have to have".

Background:

Media reports indicate that Trump has informed Zelenskyy and European leaders that his objectives for the meeting with Putin are to achieve a ceasefire and gain a better understanding of the possibility of concluding a comprehensive peace agreement.

Zelenskyy has said that Trump will call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader in Alaska.

Earlier, it was reported that Trump said that he expects his meeting with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin to be "constructive", though he did not rule out that the outcome might be negative.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
President Donald Trumps militarized crime crackdown in Washington, DC, is a clarifying political moment.

Its again exposed Democrats struggles to combat Trumps hardline law-and-order rhetoric and splits within their party that the president exploited to win two elections. Party leaders who keep citing statistics showing crime coming down are hardly consoling residents of a relatively small city that has seen 100 homicides this year.

Trump might be better at recognizing fears of violent crime. But as usual, hes adopted an extreme position, declaring a state of emergency when one doesnt exist. He has few ideas to tackle the underlying causes of crime. He demonizes the homeless, but his economic policies could make the problem worse. Like his peace deals and trade agreements, his crime purge may be mostly for show.

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Residents of the District of Columbia, meanwhile, have a right to feel unsafe. Trumps surge of federal officers and soldiers onto the streets might fill personnel shortages in the police department. But the move is likely temporary, and the same dangers will return once the city is no longer Trumps prop.

This all points to a big problem with the vicious politics of the Trump era. Every issue gets boiled down to partisan fights that forestall solutions and good governance.

The fight against crime is nuanced. Three things can be true at once. Namely, that Democrats are hopeless at coining winning messaging; Trumps drastic measures do fit into an increasingly chilling turn toward authoritarianism; and while crime may be down, DC can be dangerous. The city in many ways falls short of what Americans might want for the capital of a great nation.

Democrats cant compete without a figurehead

Trumps bombastic White House press conference on Monday, when he announced his takeover of DCs Metropolitan Police Department, was characteristic demagoguery designed to appeal to his hard-core voters.

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It also underscored how Democrats are hampered by the lack of their own powerful figurehead. Nine months after the last election and 14 before the next one, the party has no one with the skill to parry Trumps flood-the-zone presidency.

Once-in-a-generation communicators like presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama had the capacity to shape language and positions appealing to multiple constituencies at once. Party lawmakers and candidates then adopted the messaging as their own. Great politicians are teachers; they intuit the electorates emotions and fears and shape persuasive arguments and policy.

But such linguistic dexterity was missing in initial Democratic reactions to the Trump crime surge. Most party leaders raced to proclaim yet another power grab by a wannabe dictator rather than touching on the perils of violent crime.

For all the talk Republicans give about giving their localities their rights, where are they now? Senate House Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X, saying the crackdown was merely an attempt to detract from Trump scandals. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wrote on the same site that the crime scene in D.C. most damaging to everyday Americans is at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Maryland Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin told CNNs Kasie Hunt on Monday that Trump wasnt reacting to a real emergency but was instead trying to deflect from his past ties to accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. He doesnt want to release the Epstein files. So, he wants everybody to look in another direction, Raskin said.

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And a group of Democratic lawmakers from Maryland and Virginia warned of the soft launch of authoritarianism. They noted that crime was still too high for those victimized in the final sentence of a long statement.

None of these arguments are necessarily wrong. But by focusing first on Trumps repressive motives, they do not immediately address voter concerns over safety. This recalls the last election. When Democrats failed to meet Americans worries about high immigration rates and high prices, they opened a lane for Trump and his extreme solutions. Saving democracy is great. But people need to feel secure first.

Some Democratic strategists want their party to do better. Democrats, listen to me, please. Talk about wanting a safe street and lean into wanting safe neighborhoods, while at the same time saying we shouldnt have federal officers in our streets, Chuck Rocha, one Democratic consultant, told Audie Cornish on CNN This Morning.

Democrats have long struggled to make convincing arguments on crime and justice  issues that tease out divisions between the partys right and left flanks and societal and racial themes that are central to its heritage and ideology. The most recent example was over the murder of Minnesota man George Floyd in 2020 by a police officer. Nationwide protests pushed the party to the left amid outrage at police brutality and a justice system that often fails Black Americans. But when some progressive activists demanded the defunding of the police, they handed a priceless political weapon to Republicans and alienated many moderates and independents.

Members of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) patrol the National Mall area on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. - Win McNamee/Getty Images

The Democrats long struggle for a convincing message on crime

This is not a new problem.

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President Bill Clinton and then-Sen. Joe Biden seemed to have found the answer to the lefts vulnerability on law and order in the 1990s by writing crime bills that boosted law enforcement funding, expanded the death penalty and mandated life in prison for criminals with three or more felony convictions. This insulated Democrats from conservative claims that they were weak on crime.

But the bills had unintended consequences. They ushered in an era of mass incarceration in which Black Americans were disproportionately condemned to life in overcrowded prisons for comparatively minor offenses. The political impact was corrosive, haunting then-candidate Hillary Clinton in her 2016 primary campaign and Biden in his 2020 White House bid.

This week is a reminder that Democrats are still vulnerable to the classic GOP law-and-order gambit deployed by Presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, and most ruthlessly by Trump. Its far easier to demonize criminals than to produce real solutions. But Democrats need to come up with something before 2028.

Their position is similar to that of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, a political communicator on the same plane as Bill Clinton. As opposition leader, Blair needed to win over Britons who wanted more law enforcement while reassuring core Labour Party voters concerned with the socioeconomic origins of crime. He became known for a slogan  tough on crime, tough on the causes of crime  that positioned him as a new kind of progressive politician with a strong appeal to the critical center. It stole the Conservative Partys tough-on-crime mantra and helped win the 1997 election.

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The Democrats best hope of a similar act of triangulation might lie with its governors, some of whom may run for president in 2028, and who are already experienced at the executive level of the nuances of addressing crime.

One of their number, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, told CNNs Anderson Cooper on Tuesday that Trump was using the military as a cudgel and as a tool to be able to advance his political purposes. Moore said Trump should emulate methods which he said had reduced homicides and other violent crimes in Baltimore.

I did it without ever having to once operationalize our National Guard to do municipal policing, Moore said.

Trump isnt offering serious solutions

While Democratic responses to Trump were politically ineffective, they were often based in truth. Raskin, for instance, pointed out that the Trumps claim to be a champion of the law was absurd. The largest mass crime event in recent years in Washington, DC, was precipitated by the president  the mob assault by supporters he incited against the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. The Maryland Democrat argued that if Trump were serious about law and order, he would not have pardoned 1,600 insurrectionists and violent cop beaters.

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By sending National Guard soldiers into the streets in the absence of a crisis, Trump really is adopting the intimidatory tactics of strongman leaders. Some critics worry that his federalization of the capital police force is a test run for a later authoritarian takeover of the city. And the president may also foment lawlessness with his warning that cops could do whatever they hell they want.

If Trump really wanted to improve conditions in Washington, he might reverse the GOP-led Congresss $1 billion budget cut to the city that local officials warn will hit public schools, public safety and an overstretched police department.

And does the White House have any long-term plans beyond window dressing and shows of force?

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Tuesday said that homeless people in the city had a choice of shelters, addiction and mental health services, or jail. She had no specifics on any new administration housing or social services options or long-term care and solutions.

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But Trump already has what he wants.

Military vehicles lined up Wednesday night near the Washington Monument in a striking image that captured his obsession with military projection and the challenges to US founding values his actions represent.

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President Donald Trump Wednesday held tense talks with Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders ahead of his crucial Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin on Friday.

With nerves running high, Zelenskyy said the talks went well and Trump agreed that he hoped the summit with the Russian leader could lead to an immediate ceasefire.

The European allies, led by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Ukraine fear Trump will get duped by Putin into making major concessions without their agreement.

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Putin doesnt want peace, he wants to occupy Ukraine, Zelenskyy said at a news conference after the talks with Trump.

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, and described the summit as a feeling-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leaders intentions.

He pushed back against armchair critics who underestimate his deal-making prowess and insists he wont be afraid to walk away from the talks if he believes Putin isnt serious.

If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, (they) would say that I made a bad deal, Trump wrote on his social media site.

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Trump and Putin will meet on Friday at a U.S. Air Force base in Anchorage, Alaska. Its the first face-to-face meeting between Putin and an American president since he launched the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Trump already unnerved allies in Europe in recent months by making significant unilateral concessions to Putin, like agreeing that Ukraine should never join NATO and would need to give up some lands that Russia has seized in its invasion, along with the disputed Crimea region that the Kremlin seized in 2014.

Putin has stubbornly refused to respond in kind and has snubbed Trumps demands for a ceasefire. Its unclear why Trump believes the Russian leader might be ready change course now.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

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Trump has said that if Fridays summit is a success, it could be followed by a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy or a three-way meeting with him.

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have made advances in recent days around the city of Pokrovsk in the eastern Donetsk region that Putin claims for Russia.

Losing the town would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian efforts to hold the rest of the province.
President Trump on Wednesday blasted news outlets for unfair coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, arguing that he expects criticism from the media whether a good deal comes out of the summit or not.

Trump pointed to networks promoting quotes from former officials-turned-critics, including ex-national security adviser John Bolton, who has panned the summit between the two leaders in Alaska as a great victory for Putin.

Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won,' the president wrote in a post on Truth Social. Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING.

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The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!). If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal! But now theyve been caught, he continued. Look at all of the real news thats coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country.

Trump added, But it doesnt matter because we are winning on everything!!!

The president has ramped up his criticism of Putin in recent months as the Russian military has continued its attacks on Ukraine despite the threat of increased sanctions on Moscow and its trading partners. Trump has also jabbed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, including on Monday after Zelensky pushed back on talks around a territory swap, sparking worries from European officials who fear Trump could cut a bad deal for Kyiv.

I was a little bothered by the fact that Zelensky was saying, I have to get constitutional approval, he has approval to do a war and kill everybody, but he needs approval for land swapping, Trump told reporters Monday.

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The president has painted the upcoming meeting with the Russian leader as an opportunity to feel out Putin. Zelensky said this week that as part of a potential ceasefire, Ukraine might be asked to withdraw its military from Donbas, a hint he has gotten from Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff, who met with Putin last week.

Witkoff said that there should be territorial concessions from both sides  thats how it sounded. And that, most likely, Putin wants us to withdraw from Donbas. In other words, it didnt sound like it was America wanting us to withdraw, the Ukrainian leader said on Tuesday during a meeting with reporters. After we held two more NSA meetings, it became clear what Putin wants. This is not a proposal from Trump or Witkoff.

During the call, I said that I am not ready to discuss Ukraines territories, as this is solely a matter of our Constitution, Zelensky added.

He has also pressed the Trump administration to include Ukraine at the negotiating table, including the Alaska summit. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt signaled during a press briefing Tuesday that the president intends to meet with Putin one-on-one.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Center Square)  With government funding progress halted and a government shutdown deadline looming, President Donald Trump is reaching across the aisle to Democratic congressional leaders to discuss a bipartisan deal.

However, the chances of the president reaching an agreement with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., remain slim. Trump told reporters Wednesday that he expects the meeting will be almost a waste of time to meet because they never approve anything.

Congress has until Sept. 30  the end of fiscal year 2025  to pass all 12 annual appropriations bills that provide funding for federal agencies to spend on programs. If lawmakers do not pass all 12 in some form through both chambers of Congress, they risk a government shutdown.

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So far, only two of those bills have passed the House, while a three-bill minibus is the only 2026 appropriations legislation that has passed the Senate.

Part of the delay is due to Democrats purposefully dragging out the confirmation process for over 130 of the presidents civilian nominees  retaliation against Republicans One Big Beautiful Bill Act and $9 billion rescissions package  which slowed progress on passing appropriations bills as well.

Schumer has threatened to force a government shutdown unless Republicans work across the aisle with Democrats to responsibly fund the government, meaning that they must refuse to include any of Trumps proposed budget cuts.

In response to what Republicans have termed a historic level of obstruction, Trump referred to the Senate Minority Leader as Cryin Chuck Schumer and labeled Democrats as Country hating THUGS in a social media post.

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If Trumps meeting with Schumer and Jeffries yields no positive results, Republicans will have further incentive to choose the so-called nuclear option"  changing Senate confirmation voting rules  to clear the nominee backlog and enable them to finish work on appropriations bills.

Both chambers of Congress are currently in recess until September, giving lawmakers only a few weeks to either work together and pass all 12 funding bills or else pass a Continuing Resolution for a fourth time in a row.

Congress never passed a fiscal year 2025 budget, instead passing three consecutive CRs to keep government funding essentially on cruise control until Sept. 30.
ON MONDAY, PRESIDENT TRUMP ANNOUNCED a federal takeover of law enforcement in Washington, D.C. He said the director of the U.S. Marshals Service would take control of police operations, get tough, and clean up the city. As reporters in the White House briefing room looked on, saying nothing, Trump concluded: Everybody in this room, they may not express it, but they all want that to happen.

Thats how Trump thinks about consent: Even if you dont grant it, he presumes it. He has talked this way about women he allegedly groped, countries he tariffed, and foreign populations whose lands he tried to annex. Now, as he prepares to meet with Vladimir Putin, hes applying the same coercive arrogance to the country Putin wants to dismember: Ukraine.

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IN THE INFAMOUS Access Hollywood tape, recorded twenty years ago, Trump described groping women and inferring their consent. I just start kissing them, he bragged. I dont even wait. And when youre a star, they let you do it. You can do anything. Grab em by the pussy. You can do anything.

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This year, as he returned to the White House, Trump set out to grab land, starting with Canada and Greenland. In polls, Greenlanders said they didnt want to be annexed. But Trump tried to take their territory anyway. He claimed that the people of Greenland would love to become a state of the United States of America.

Likewise, Canadians said overwhelmingly that they didnt want to join the United States. But Trump tried to pressure them into submission. A lot of people in Canada are liking becoming our beautiful, cherished fifty-first state, he insisted.

Meanwhile, Trump strong-armed Ukraine into giving the United States a share of its mineral wealth. To extract this agreement, he temporarily choked off Ukraines access to military aid and intelligence as it battled the Russian invasion.

On Truth Social, Trump told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to move fast or he is not going to have a Country left. In the meantime, we are successfully negotiating an end to the War with Russia. In an outrageous Oval Office confrontation in February, Trump warned Zelensky to cough up the minerals: Youre either going to make a deal, or were out. And if were out, youll fight it out. I dont think its going to be pretty.

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THEN TRUMP TURNED HIS BULLYING to Americas trade partners. On April 2, he announced extortionate tariffs. When the markets plunged, he changed his plan, promising what the White House billed as 90 deals in 90 days. But the deals turned out to be another case of Trump pretending to get consent.

By April 22, there was no visible progress on trade agreements. Nevertheless, in an interview with Time, Trump said he was done. Ive made all the deals, he asserted. Ive made 200 deals. The interviewers asked him when the deals would be announced. Over the next three to four weeks, he replied. Well be finished.

By May 6, there were still no deals. Trump said reporters should stop asking about them. Soon, he predicted, Well give you a hundred deals. (What happened to the other hundred?) And they dont have to sign.

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They dont have to sign? What kind of deal is that?

Gradually, it became clear that Trump was redefining the term. By May 23, more than four weeks after the Time interview, only Britain had confirmed a trade agreement. But Trump claimed that he also had a deal with the European Union. Weve set the deal. Its at 50 percent, he said. By 50 percent, he meant his unilateral tariff on the E.U. And by we, he meant himself. The E.U. had agreed to nothing.

Trump defined deal to mean whatever tariff rate he dictated. On June 17, he declared, Were actually finished with every deal, if you really think about it. Because all I have to do is say, This is what youre going to pay. On June 29, he added, Well send a letter, and well say . . . Youll pay a 25 percent tariff, and we wish you a lot of luck. And thats the end of the trade deal.

Through this ruse, Trump pretended to meet his ninety-day deadline. He issued tariff letters in early July and announced, The letters are the deals. The deals are made. By continuing to export products to the United States, he argued, other countries were, in effect, consenting: They pay that tariff, and that is a contract, essentially.

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At various points in the trade standoffs, when other countries seemed to be retaliating or holding out, Trumpwith the same confidence he has often expressed about womens interest in himassured the world that the uncooperative countries secretly wanted to please him. When China slapped him with retaliatory tariffs in April, he insisted, China wants to make a deal. They just dont know how quite to go about it.

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NOW UKRAINE IS BACK in the crosshairs.

Last week, after talks with Putin, Trump began to dictate terms for a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Therell be some swapping of territories, he said. Zelensky rejected that idea, but Trump brushed him aside. On Monday, the American president repeated, Therell be some land swapping.

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Trump said he would reveal a proposed agreement crafted by Putin: Im going to meet with President Putin, and were going to see what he has in mind. And if its a fair deal, Ill reveal it to the European Union leaders and to the NATO leaders and also to President Zelensky.

If Zelensky didnt accept the deal or find a way to appease Putin, hed be in big trouble, Trump warned. Ive seen a poll coming out of Ukraine, said Trump. Eighty-eight percent of the people would like to see a deal made. The real number, according to Gallup, is 69 percent. But exaggerating it is part of Trumps strategy. Hes trying to undercut Zelensky and force him to settle.

Trump also signaled that if Zelensky didnt agree to a deal, Trump would blame the war on him. I disagree with what hes donevery, very severely disagree. This is a war that should have never happened, said Trump. He accused Zelensky of having chosen to go into war and kill everybody. Its victim-blaming, plain and simple.

This is how Trump has lived his whole life. He stiffs contractors and makes them accept whatever hell pay. He announces tariffs and calls them deals. He shakes down an ally for its minerals and calls it a partnership. He tells a victim nation to cede land and calls it a swap.

When youre the president of the United States, they let you do it.

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Church Watchdog Condemns Episcopal Diocese of New York Refusal to Follow Requirements to Care for Victim in St. Thomas Sex Abuse Case

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Anglican Watch

Aug. 12, 2025

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 12, 2025 /Standard Newswire/  Anglican Watch, the unofficial watchdog group for the Episcopal Church, today condemned the Episcopal Diocese of New York and Suffragan Bishop Allen K. Shin for their refusal to follow church policies in clergy disciplinary cases involving allegations of sexual abuse.

One of the requirements in all Title IV clergy disciplinary cases is that a pastoral response be a top priority at all phases of the process, said Anglican Watch official Eric Bonetti.

Additionally, since the last Episcopal General Convention, cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct require a professional assessment of the pastoral needs for all parties involved. Neither has happened, despite our pointing out these egregious oversights, including via an email sent directly to Bishop Shin.

Indeed, the Diocese continues to retaliate against the victim, who, seven months after complaining about abuse, remains barred from all church facilities and activities. Moreover, Bishop Shin has expressly left these measures in place.

How this conduct evinces Christian compassion or concern escapes us, Bonetti adds. Indeed, it serves only to further traumatize the victim, even as the victims complaint continues to move at a glacial pace.

It is time for Bishop Shin to resign if he cannot even manage to care for the victim of sexual assault, Bonetti concludes. We further note that one of the alleged assailants remains active as an Episcopal priest.

Founded in 2015, Anglican Watch is the unofficial watchdog of the Episcopal Church. The organization addresses both sexual and non-sexual abuse in the Episcopal Church and other faith traditions.

SOURCE Anglican Watch

CONTACT: Eric Bonetti, 240-380-2567, eric@anglicanwatch.com


The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday acquitted former DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal and others accused in a case of disclosure of the identity of a minor rape victim. This case pertains to an FIR linked to the allegations of disclosing the identity of a minor rape victim. This case was registered at the Police Station, Burari. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Mittal acquitted Swati Maliwal and another accused, Bhupinder Singh. The court will upload a detailed order of judgement. Meanwhile, the court has listed the matter for furnishing the bail bond in view of their acquittal and to ensure their presence if the prosecution goes in for an appeal against the judgement. The accused persons were on court bail in this case. This case was transferred to Rouse Avenue court from Tis Hazari court in March 2025 in view of the fact that Maliwal is a sitting Rajya Sabha MP. A case was registered at the Burari police station in 2016. Maliwal was summoned by the Tis Hazari court in 2017. A petition for quashing of the FIR was moved before the High Court. The proceedings were stayed by the High Court. Finally, the petition was rejected by the High court in 2025. The court took cognisance in 2017 and had said, "There are, thus, sufficient grounds to take cognisance of the offence against both the accused for the offence under section 74 of the J. J. Act, 2015. Cognisance of the offence is accordingly taken under section 190(1)(a) Cr.PC." While taking cognisance on July 28, 2017, the court said that the investigation carried out revealed the commission of an offence punishable under section 74 read with section 86 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, by the accused Swati Maliwal Jaihind and Bhupender Singh, both from Delhi Commission for Women (DC). The offence, as punishable under Section 74 of the J.J. Act, 2015, being punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or a fine which may extend to Rs 2,00,000 or both, has been rendered as non-cognisable under Subsection 3 of Section 86 of the J.J. Act, 2015. After taking cognisance, the court issued a summons to Swati Maliwal and Bhupinder Singh. "Since the complainant happens to be a public servant, his examination is dispensed with, and summons be issued to both the accused through SHO PS Burari for 23.10.2017," the court had ordered on July 28, 2017. (ANI)
(In first paragraph, corrects to say Rosner serving since mid-2024 as a commissioner, not since mid-2025)

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump named David Rosner as chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, where he has served since mid-2024 as a commissioner, the agency said on Wednesday.

The appointment of Rosner, a Democrat, is expected to be temporary. Trump in June nominated to the commission two of his fellow Republicans who await Senate confirmation.

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FERC, which has a maximum of five members, regulates the power grid, liquefied natural gas projects and interstate transportation of oil and natural gas. It currently has three members, after Mark Christie, a Republican, left last week.

In June, Trump nominated Laura Swett to take Christie's place and the president is expected to name her to become chair after the Senate confirms her.

Trump also nominated David LeCerte then be a commissioner. If the two are confirmed by the Senate, which is controlled by Republicans, FERC would then have a 3-2 Republican majority.

Rosner, who has worked in energy in and out of government for two decades, said he was honored to be named. "

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Trump has said he wants to open pipelines to bring natural gas from Pennsylvania's vast gas fields to states in the Northeast. The projects have been opposed by states.

(Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
Donald Trump talks casually about the other cities he intends to target with U.S. troops, including Baltimore. Maryland Governor Wes Moore discusses these domestic deployments with Jen Psaki and makes clear that he is not playing along with Trump's stunt. "I will not authorize the usage of the Maryland National Guard for any mission that I do not deem mission critical or mission aligned."
The US governments deal greenlighting two American chipmakers exports to China in exchange for a 15% cut of the revenue is drawing backlash.

A prominent Republican lawmaker heading a China committee said the deal incentivizes Washington to let companies sell Beijing technology that enhances its artificial intelligence capabilities, and a Bloomberg columnist argued it gives China a leg up the US might come to seriously regret.

The decision underscores worries that US President Donald Trump might be willing to give too much to secure a trade deal with China, The New York Times wrote. More broadly, Trumps deal marks a real significant break with the way the US government and businesses interact with each other, an analyst said.
President Donald Trumps pick to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics, who previously proposed scrapping monthly jobs reports, is now backing off that idea, according to a report.

Trump tapped EJ Antoni, the chief economist at the conservative Heritage Foundation, for the role after firing the agencys last commissioner following her release of a poor July jobs report.

Antoni proposed suspending the release of the monthly jobs reports in an August 4 Fox Business interview, one week before he was nominated to be the next BLS commissioner.

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He has since walked back on that proposal, CNN reported. Antoni will continue to issue monthly jobs numbers if confirmed, Heritage Foundation economist Stephen Moore told CNN Tuesday.

Its not immediately clear what may have changed his mind. The Independent has reached out to the Heritage Foundation for more information.

EJ Antoni, Trump's pick to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, backed off from his suggestion to suspend monthly jobs reports, according to a report from CNN (Trump administration)

Moore called Antonis proposal a bad idea and added the pair discussed the matter. Hes backed off that, Moore said. Were going to continue to do monthly numbers.

In his Fox Business interview, Antoni slammed the agency for having unreliable data.

How on earth are businesses supposed to plan  or how is the Fed supposed to conduct monetary policy  when they dont know how many jobs are being added or lost in our economy? Its a serious problem that needs to be fixed immediately," he said.

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Antoni then suggested releasing data quarterly rather than monthly.

"Until it is corrected, the BLS should suspend issuing the monthly job reports but keep publishing the more accurate, though less timely, quarterly data," he continued.

Antoni appeared on Fox News days after Trump fired former agency commissioner Erika McEntarfer and criticized the jobs report as inaccurate, which showed the economy added only 73,000 jobs in July. The agency also revised down the reports for May and June, revealing a combined 258,000 fewer jobs than initially reported.

The president fumed about the latest figures, even claiming on CNBCs Squawk Box last week that the numbers were rigged.

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When announcing the nomination on Monday, Trump said in a Truth Social post that he believes Antoni will ensure that the Numbers released are HONEST and ACCURATE.

Asked on Tuesday if the Bureau of Labor Statistics will continue to issue monthly reports, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: I believe that is the plan, and thats the hope, and that these monthly reports will be data that the American people can trust.
Donald Trump is preparing to offer Vladimir Putin access to rare earth minerals to incentivise him to end the war in Ukraine.

The US president will arrive at the much-anticipated meeting with his Russian counterpart on Friday armed with a number of money-making opportunities for Putin.

They will include opening up Alaskas natural resources to Moscow and lifting some of the American sanctions on Russias aviation industry, The Telegraph can reveal.

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Proposals include giving Putin access to the rare earth minerals in the Ukrainian territories currently occupied by Russia.

Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, is understood to be among administration figures briefing Mr Trump ahead of his meeting with Putin in Anchorage.

Mr Bessent is exploring the economic trade-offs the US can make with Russia in order to expedite a ceasefire agreement.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Mr Trump said Putin would face severe consequences if he did not agree to end the war in Ukraine at their meeting on Friday.

Credit: U.S. Network Pool

The US leader also revealed his intention to seek an immediate second meeting with Putin, this time involving Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, after their one-on-one talks in Alaska.

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Mr Trump said: If the first one goes ok, well have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if theyd like to have me there.

The US president had attended a virtual summit with Mr Zelensky and other European leaders including Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron and Freidrich Merz as part of a series of calls ahead of the Alaska meeting.

Speaking after the talks, Mr Zelensky said Mr Trump backed security guarantees for Ukraine. There should be security guarantees, he told a press conference alongside Mr Merz, the German chancellor.

President Trump said that he supports this and Americas readiness to take part.

Volodymyr Zelensky is welcomed by Friedrich Merz, the German Chancellor, in Berlin - John MacDougall/AFP

In the past months, Washington has kept security guarantees  some kind of commitment that America would be willing to enforce the terms of any peace deal  for Ukraine off the table, despite it being a key demand from Kyiv.

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The UK, France and Germany have been working towards creating a peacekeeping force without the direct involvement of the Americans but had hoped the US may offer support such as air cover.

Offering an update on the plans following Wednesdays talks, Sir Keir said his coalition of the willing was ready to implement a ceasefire plan as soon as a peace deal was agreed.

The plans are now ready in a form that can be used if we get to that ceasefire, the Prime Minister said, adding that real progress on security guarantees for Ukraine had been made.

Sir Keir Starmer co-chairs a virtual meeting with Ukraine allies at Downing Street on Wednesday - Jack Taylor/PA Wire

European leaders including Emmanuel Macron, the French president, said the calls with Mr Trump were positive. After the calls, Mr Zelensky said Putin was bluffing when he said he does not care about the sanctions and that theyre not working.

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As well as lifting sanctions, The Telegraph can now reveal that the US is preparing to offer Putin other financial incentives to end the war, including access to rare earth minerals in the areas of Ukraine currently occupied by Russia.

Ukraine is thought to hold 10 per cent of the worlds reserves of lithium, used in the production of batteries. Two of its largest lithium deposits are in areas held by Russia, and Putin has staked his claim to the valuable minerals found in the regions his forces occupy.

There are a range of incentives, in which a potential mineral/rare earth deal could be one, a source with knowledge of the proposals told The Telegraph.

In May, the US signed a rare earth mineral deal with Kyiv, allowing it to exploit Ukraines ample natural resources. Washington will need to establish new mining operations, which could be accelerated by Russian co-operation.

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The presidents America First policy has seen him strike several mineral deals since his return to the Oval Office, most notably with Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

Other incentives include lifting export bans on parts and equipment needed to service Russian planes, swathes of which have fallen into disrepair.

Western countries have restricted Moscows access to crucial spare components and other equipment since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, forcing airlines and the military to cannibalise old aircraft for replacement parts.

Nearly 30 per cent of Russias Western-made planes, cut off from maintenance, could be grounded within the next five years, Sergei Chemezov, the head of Rostec, Russias state-owned defence conglomerate, suggested this year.

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Lifting sanctions on Russian aircraft could prove lucrative for the American manufacturer Boeing. With a fleet of more than 700 planes dominated by Airbus and Boeing, Russian airlines could return to the American suppliers for critical parts and maintenance.

Recent major incidents highlight an urgent need to prevent the fleet degrading. In late July, a Soviet-era Antonov An-24, built in 1976, crashed in the countrys far east, killing all 48 people on board. Days later, the Russian flag carrier Aeroflot grounded dozens of flights following a crippling cyber attack.

The scene of the crash of a Soviet-era Antonov An-24 plane in Russia last month - Anadolu via Getty Images

Mr Trump is also considering offering Russia opportunities to tap into the valuable natural resources in the strait that separates it from the US. Alaska, separated from Russia by just three miles of the Bering Strait, is estimated to hold significant undiscovered oil and gas reserves, including 13 per cent of the worlds oil.

Developing Russias presence in the strait would bolster Putins strategic interests in the Arctic region, which accounted for 80 per cent of Russias gas production in 2022.

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UK government sources told The Telegraph that such incentives could be acceptable to Europe so long as it was not seen as rewarding Russia. The sense is that it has to be presented to align with public opinion around this, it cannot be seen as a reward for Putin, one said.

Israels occupation of the West Bank could be used as a model for ending the war. Russia would have military and economic control of occupied Ukraine under its own governing body, similar to Israels de facto rule of Palestinian territory.

The idea was raised in discussions between Steve Witkoff, Mr Trumps special envoy and his Russian counterparts, according to The Times.

The White House is tempering expectations ahead of the summit on Friday, portraying it as a listening exercise for the president.

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This is really a feel-out meeting, a little bit, Mr Trump told reporters on Monday, predicting he would know probably in the first two minutes if Putin was serious about peace.

European diplomats say there has been no notable change in Putins overall war aim, which is to topple Mr Zelenskys government and replace it with a Moscow-friendly proxy.

The Russian presidents aides described the tete-a-tete primarily as a discussion on Russian-American relations, hinting at boosting trade co-operation.

A White House official said: We do not comment on deliberative conversations that may or may not be happening. From the beginning, the president has been clear about his commitment to ending the bloodshed and achieving a full and comprehensive ceasefire.

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As the president stated, everyone agrees this war must come to a close, and that is what he is working towards.

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 is raking up global support in his push for a Nobel Peace Prize  garnering nominations from Pakistan, Cambodia, Israel and GOP lawmakers as he touts his role in talks to end various global conflicts.

Friday may be Trumps biggest diplomatic test yet when he sits down with Russian President Vladimir Putin to talk about ending the war in Ukraine, something the president has struggled to settle between the two adversaries.

But Trump has succeeded in other long-standing conflicts. The leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, who have been at war over territory shared by their two countries for decades, floated a joint nomination for Trump when they visited the White House recently for a U.S.-brokered peace summit.

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The White House is publicly arguing it is well past time Trump gets the prize. A source close to Trump World said the White House is very serious about getting Trump the prize, adding that on the merits, its pretty straightforward.

The list of those who agree has been growing.

Pakistan nominated Trump for the prize for his mediation of a ceasefire between the country and India in May. After he ended another conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, the former said this month it would nominate Trump for the prize.

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) in March said he would nominate Trump for the award, and Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) nominated him in June, citing his role in brokering a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel.

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The award is given annually in December by the Norwegian Nobel Committee to someone who has worked to establish peace between nations.

A former aide in Trumps first term said senior State Department officials have the Nobel Peace Prize in the back of their heads at all times, an idea that shapes how they think about the big picture.

Theres no question the pressures on, the former aide said. Trump sees this prize as the ultimate capstone to how history will remember him.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet lauded Trumps historic contributions to advancing world peace in an announcement this week on the Nobel nomination. Similarly, Pakistan praised Trump for pragmatic diplomacy and effective peace-building when it nominated him. India has denied that Trump played a role in its military decisions.

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White House trade adviser Peter Navarro in July said Trump deserves a Nobel Prize specifically for restructuring the international trade environment with his aggressive tariff plan.

And the president himself said he deserved the prize after a deal was announced in June to end the conflict between Rwanda and Congo.

Im not politicking for it. I have a lot of people that are, Trump said Friday about the award.

However, peace in two of the worlds major wars  between Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Hamas  has proven elusive for Trump, who set high expectations for his negotiating acumen.

Trump has increasingly grown frustrated that he cant end the fighting in Ukraine after promising on the campaign trail to achieve peace on Day 1. He has pulled various levers, like imposing new sanctions on Russia and sanctions on India for buying Russian oil.

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The White House has tempered expectations for the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska on Friday, at times calling it a listening session. Trump has said this week that he would know in a matter of minutes whether Putin was serious about a peace deal. The White House has also largely avoided predicting any deliverables.

When it comes to Israel, Trump showed rare daylight with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during recent remarks in which he acknowledged the starvation in Gaza, vowing to increase aid.

Netanyahu in July, on a visit to the White House, presented Trump with a letter he sent to the Nobel Prize committee.

Its nominating you for the peace prize, which is well-deserved. And you should get it, Netanyahu said.

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The two leaders have not always seen eye to eye in public over the war in Gaza, which, like in Ukraine, has no end in site, with several ceasefire proposals falling apart this year.

Bill OReilly recently told NewsNation that Trump feels the Ukraine-Russia war is the key to his prize.

I know exactly what Trump is aiming for. He would like to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, OReilly said on NewsNations On Balance.

That may or may not happen. Thats not the most honest organization over in Norway, but he wants to get this thing settled.

Other conservatives also questioned whether the effort is worth it.

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Trump is obsessed with the Nobel Prize. He shouldnt be. He talks about a new type of leadership so why does he need an affirmation by a bunch of Norwegian progressives? He needs to decide whether he wants to Make America Great Again, or if he wants to be Jimmy Carter v. 2.0, Michael Rubin, senior fellow with the conservative Washington think tank the American Enterprise Institute, told The Hill.

Former President Carter was awarded the prize after his presidency, in 2002, for his work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts. Former President Obama received the award in the first year of his presidency, in 2009, for his work to strengthen international diplomacy.

Only two other presidents have won it  former President Wilson in 1920 and former President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. Former Vice President Al Gore won it in 2007 for his work on combating climate change.

Trump seems much more ideologically flexible than I think a lot of Republicans in D.C. would like him to be. And its drive in pursuit of ego and the idea that he clearly wants to go down in history as some kind of celebrated dealmaker, one former national security aide to former President Biden said.

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The former aide added, He promised to end the Russia-Ukraine war famously in 24 hours, failure. He inherited a ceasefire in Gaza, failure. Thats fallen apart.  He said he would try to get a nuclear deal with Iran, failure.

Marc Siegel, a professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health, argued in an op-ed this week that Trump deserves the prize for Operation Warp Speed, which got the COVID-19 vaccine off the ground at the end of his first term.

On the foreign policy front, Trump has sought to bring an end to both erupting conflicts and long-simmering disputes.

The White House on Friday touted the Armenia and Azerbaijan peace deal to end a decades-long conflict in the South Caucasus.

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At that event, the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan argued Trump would be worthy of the Nobel Prize for his efforts.

I think President Trump deserves to have the Nobel Peace Prize.  We will promote for that, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said.

President Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize many times over  his direct involvement in major conflicts, leveraging tools from Americas military might to our superior consumer market, has brought peace to decades-long wars around the world, spokesperson Anna Kelly said, adding the success is exemplified by the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace summit.

The Presidents legacy is already cemented as Peacemaker-in-Chief, and he has received multiple nominations because America is respected again with him in office, she said.

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The former Biden national security aide argued that the previous administration had done the vast majority of the groundwork in many diplomatic deals, adding that Trump parachuted in to close them.

I think hes interested in any deal he can slap his name on and say look what I got done, the former aide 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.
US President Donald Trump has threatened Russian President Vladimir Putin with "very severe consequences" if he does not agree to end the war in Ukraine.

Trump said that Putin should prepare for this if he does not agree to end the war during their meeting on Friday in Alaska. In response to a follow-up question about whether by consequences he meant tariffs, the US president did not elaborate.

Trump also once again suggested a possible meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin after his planned summit with the Russian leader on Friday.

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"We'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there," he said on Wednesday in Washington.

However, he said he wanted to wait and see how his planned meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday would go, as it might not lead to another meeting.

The US president plans to meet Putin in Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, to find solutions to the Russian war against Ukraine that has been ongoing for about three and a half years. At this first meeting, he said he wanted to understand the framework conditions.

At the same time, he admitted that he might not be able to prevent Putin from carrying out further attacks on Ukraine.

Neither Zelensky nor the European partner states were invited to the meeting on Friday. Therefore, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Zelensky, and close European allies met online for preliminary discussions earlier on Wednesday to convey their most important messages to Trump.
U.S. President Donald Trump held a video call with President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders on Aug. 13, just two days before his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

"We talked about a ceasefire today. President Trump said this is one of his priorities in conversation with President Putin," Zelensky said after the call during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

"I very much hope that some agreement will be reached, because so far all the talks held with Putin... have ended only with him increasing military presence, intensifying attacks."

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The leaders of Finland, France, the U.K., Italy, Poland, the EU, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte attended the video conference.

According to Merz, European leaders are doing everything possible to steer the planned meeting between Trump and Putin "in the right direction."

"We want the correct sequence: first, a ceasefire  this must be at the very beginning. Later, there may be a framework agreement. Third, Ukraine is ready to negotiate on talks and territorial issues, but our starting point is the contact line," the chancellor said.

"We have addressed several important points. We made it clear that Ukraine must be at the negotiating table if there is to be a follow-up meeting."

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The German chancellor also pointed out that the issue of legally recognizing territories occupied in violation of international law "is not up for discussion."

Following the call, the U.S. president described the conversation as "very friendly," saying he would "rate it a 10." He also noted the possibility of a second meeting after his planned summit with Putin.

"There's a very good chance that we're going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is that I'm going to find out where we are and what we're doing," Trump said during a visit to the Kennedy Center in Washington.

A source cited by Axios said Trump told the leaders that he could not make final decisions on territorial issues but believed "land swaps" would likely be part of any peace agreement.

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The call comes as Kyiv and its European partners seek to present a united front before the Trump-Putin Alaska summit on Aug. 15 amid concerns that the two leaders might cut a deal unfavorable to Ukraine and Europe, according to Reuters.

Trump has described the upcoming Alaska talks as a "feel-out" meeting in his efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. He has said both Kyiv and Moscow would need to cede territory to reach a deal, a stance that has alarmed European capitals and Kyiv.

In a press conference on Aug. 11, Trump confirmed Zelensky would not attend the Alaska meeting with Putin, saying "he wasn't part of it." Trump added that he ultimately intends to bring the Ukrainian and Russian presidents together, either with him present or not.

The Alaska summit was preceded by a flurry of diplomacy in Kyiv, as Zelensky held over 30 calls with international partners in just a few days to discuss perspectives on ending the war.

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"Pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a just peace. Ukraine's and our partners' experience must be used to prevent deception by Russia," he said on X.

Read also: Everything we know about Russias rapid advance in Donetsk Oblast ahead of key talks with Trump

"At present, there is no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war. Our coordinated efforts and joint actions  of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and all countries that seek peace  can definitely compel Russia to make peace."

Since returning to office in January, Trump has pledged to broker a swift peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow  efforts that quickly stalled as Russia repeatedly rejected a ceasefire and pushed maximalist demands during peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul.

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This led to the U.S. president adopting a more critical tone on Russia and threatening additional sanctions, though he did not unveil any new measures by his most recent deadline to reach a peace deal on Aug. 8. U.S.-Russian diplomatic engagement gained fresh momentum last week after Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, met Putin in Moscow, leading to an agreement on the summit between leaders.

Publicly, Putin has demanded a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership and a full Ukrainian withdrawal from partially occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, among other conditions.

Zelensky has rejected the possibility of recognizing the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territory and ceding additional land, calling for a ceasefire as the first step toward peace negotiations, a position supported by Kyiv's European allies.

The EU has publicly welcomed Trump's diplomatic efforts while signalling steadfast support for Ukraine and urging increased pressure on Moscow. Kaja Kallas, the bloc's chief diplomat, has announced that the EU would start working on the 19th package of sanctions.

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"More military support for Ukraine and more support for Ukraine's budgetary needs and accession process to join the EU" are also part of the consensus, Kallas said after an extraordinary meeting of European foreign ministers on Aug. 11.

The European bloc issued a joint statement in support of Ukraine ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, with only Hungary  broadly seen as the most Kremlin-friendly EU government  refusing to sign.

Read also: Why is Russia so obsessed with Alaska?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
In an ironic twist, President Donald Trump is set to discuss the war in Ukraine with Russian leader Vladimir Putin at a military base in Alaska that was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height of Cold War and still plays a role today.

The meeting is scheduled to take place Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, according to a White House official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning.

The base created by merging Elmendorf Air Force Base and Army Fort Richardson in 2010 has played a key strategic role in monitoring and deterring the Soviet Union during much of the Cold War.

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Throughout its long history, the base hosted large numbers of aircraft and oversaw operations of a variety of early warning radar sites that were aimed at detecting Soviet military activity and any possible nuclear launches. It earned the motto Top Cover for North America at this time, according to the base website.

While much of the military hardware has since been deactivated, the base still hosts key aircraft squadrons, including the F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jet. Planes from the base also still intercept Russian aircraft that regularly fly into U.S. airspace.

The leaders meeting at an American military base allows them to avoid any protests and provides an important level of security, said Benjamin Jensen, senior fellow for defense and security at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank.

For President Trump, its a great way for him to show American military strength while also isolating the ability of the public or others to intervene with what he probably hopes is a productive dialogue, Jensen said.

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He said the location means Trump can cultivate ties with Putin while signaling military power to try to gain that bargaining advantage to make a second meeting possible.

The irony of Putin visiting an American military base that long has  and still does  aimed to counter Russian threats comes as Trump works to reach a ceasefire deal in a war that he promised during the 2024 campaign to end quickly.

Officials from Ukraine and Europe fear that the one-on-one meeting they will not take part in could lead to an outcome that favors Russian goals.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear that the United States wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit. Macron spoke after a virtual meeting between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders.

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Trump has said any major agreement could involve land swaps and that Zelenskyy and Putin could meet next or he could meet with both leaders.

Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is Im going to find out where we are and what were doing, Trump told reporters Wednesday. Its going to be a very important meeting, but its setting the table for the second meeting.

Associated Press writer Nathan Ellgren contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened "severe consequences" against Russia if Vladimir Putin did not agree to stop his war on Ukraine.

"There will be consequences," Trump said at the Kennedy Center in Washington as he took questions on his meeting on Friday with Russia's president in Alaska.

Trump did not elaborate on what those consequences would be. When asked if they would include sanctions or tariffs, Trump only said he didn't have to say.

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The comments came after a virtual conference between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders. Trump described the conversation with the leaders as "very friendly" and European leaders said afterward Trump told them he would press Putin for a ceasefire.

Andrew Harnik/Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump takes a question from the press during a visit to the Kennedy Center in Washington, August 13, 2025.

Zelenskyy, speaking in Berlin on Wednesday after the call, said he advised Trump and other officials that Putin is "bluffing" in pursuing peace.

"I told my colleagues, the U.S. president and our European friends, that Putin definitely does not want peace. He wants the occupation of our country. And we all really understand that. Putin will not be able to deceive anyone. We need further pressure for peace. Not only American, but also European sanctions," Zelenskyy said.

"We talked about the meeting in Alaska," Zelenskyy added. "We hope that the central topic of the meeting will be a ceasefire. An immediate ceasefire. The U.S. president has repeatedly said this. He suggested to me that after the meeting in Alaska we will have contact. And we will discuss all the results, if there are any. And we will determine the next mutual steps."

John MacDougall/Pool/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz attend a talk of European leaders with the US President on the Ukraine war ahead of the summit between the US and Russian leaders, August 13, 2025.

Though details of Friday's meeting are still being ironed out, Putin and Trump are scheduled to meet at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, a White House official confirmed to ABC News.

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Trump on Wednesday said it was not his call to not invite Zelenskyy to Friday's summit, and that he next wants to see a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin as well as the U.S. if necessary.

"There's a very good chance that we're going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is -- I'm going to find out where we are and what we're doing," Trump said.

Asked if he believes he could convince Putin to stop targeting civilians in Ukraine, Trump said no and repeated the frustration he's expressed about Putin in the past few weeks.

Trump at the same time suggested a second meeting won't take place if he doesn't get what he needs from Putin.

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"Now, there may be no second meeting because if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have, then we're not going to have a second meeting," Trump said.

Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Pool via Reuters - PHOTO: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with head of the Federal Taxation Service Daniil Yegorov at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia August 13, 2025.

Zelenskyy is pushing for for a three-way meeting between Russia, Ukraine and the United States, arguing it is "impossible to solve this without Ukraine."

European governments have expressed their support for Ukraine in any coming peace negotiations, urging Trump to facilitate European and Ukrainian involvement in any such discussions.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that Trump "was very clear on the fact that the what the United States wants is to obtain a ceasefire during this meeting in Alaska."

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"The second element that was very clearly expressed by President Trump is that the territorial matters from Ukraine can and will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president," Macron continued. "This is the position that we support, and it has been very clearly expressed by President Trump, and so this heralds our meetings in the future."

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said "real progress" was made in the virtual meeting and said the coalition was ready to support Friday's meeting between Trump and Putin.

Starmer also said the group is ready to implement plans if a ceasefire is reached, including security guarantees for Ukraine once the hostilities have stopped.

Genya Savilov/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: A woman walks past a heavily damaged residential building following a Russian strike in the town of Bilozerske, Donetsk region of Ukraine, on August 12, 2025.

During a news conference in Moscow on Wednesday, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs deputy spokesperson Alexei Fadeev said Russia considers "the consultations requested by the Europeans as politically and practically insignificant."

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Fadeev also said Russia's stance on ending the war in Ukraine has not changed since Putin laid out his conditions last year: the full withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from parts of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson that they still control, and Ukraine abandoning its plans to join the NATO alliance.

Fadeev told reporters that the upcoming meeting between Putin and Trump in Alaska will allow the two leaders to focus on discussing all current issues between their countries, from the Ukraine war to the normalization of relations.

Long-range strikes by Russia and Ukraine continued overnight into Wednesday.

Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 49 drones and two North Korean-made ballistic missiles into the country overnight, of which 32 drones and both missiles were shot down or suppressed. Russia's Defense Ministry, meanwhile, said its forces shot down 63 Ukrainian drones overnight.

ABC News' Kelsey Walsh, Natalia Kushnir, Anna Sergeeva, Yulia Drozd, Hannah Demissie, Morgan Winsor and Joe Simonetti contributed to this report.
One Indian Army soldier was killed while foiling an infiltration bid in the Uri sector on Wednesday morning, and search operations are still ongoing in the area, said an official. The Army had killed two terrorists in the same area a few days ago. According to an official statement, the Indian Army foiled an infiltration attempt in the Uri sector early this morning. A few days ago, the Army had eliminated two terrorists in the same area. During today's operation, one Indian Army soldier lost his life. Search operations are still ongoing in the area. Meanwhile, earlier today, the District Magistrate of Samba ordered a night curfew in areas up to 2 km from the International Border on Tuesday to support Border Security Force (BSF) operations and strengthen security. The restriction will be in place daily from 10 pm to 5 am for the next two months unless withdrawn earlier. According to the order issued by District Magistrate Ayushi Sudan, the decision was made in coordination with security agencies to enhance border monitoring and prevent unlawful activities by regulating civilian movement during night hours. Movement during curfew hours will be permitted only for valid reasons, and individuals must produce identification when asked by BSF or Police personnel. Violators will face legal action. Earlier, on August 9, two jawans died in the line of duty on the ninth day of operations carried out by security forces in the Akhal Devsar area of South Kashmir's Kulgam district, officials said. Chinar Corps paid tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, who laid down their lives in the line of duty. "Chinar Corps honoured the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in line of duty for the Nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. Indian Army expressed its deepest condolences and stood in solidarity with the bereaved families. Operation continued," Chinar Corps posted on X. So far, one terrorist had been neutralised in the operation. (ANI)
On Aug. 15, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.

It will reportedly be the first time a Russian leader has set foot in Alaska since Russia sold the territory to the U.S. 178 years ago.

To mark the 150th anniversary of the sale in 2017, we asked William L. Iggiagruk Hensley, then a visiting professor at the University of Alaska Anchorage, to write about that historic sale. This is the article we published, with minor updates.

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On March 30, 1867, U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward and Russian envoy Baron Edouard de Stoeckl signed the Treaty of Cession. With a stroke of a pen, Czar Alexander II had ceded Alaska, his countrys last remaining foothold in North America, to the United States for US$7.2 million.

That sum, amounting to just $156 million in todays dollars, brought to an end Russias 125-year odyssey in Alaska and its expansion across the treacherous Bering Sea, which at one point extended the Russian Empire as far south as Fort Ross, California, 90 miles from San Francisco Bay.

Today, Alaska is one of the richest U.S. states thanks to its abundance of natural resources, such as petroleum, gold and fish, as well as its vast expanse of pristine wilderness and strategic location as a window on Russia and gateway to the Arctic.

So, what prompted Russia to withdraw from its American beachhead? And how did it come to possess it in the first place?

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As a descendant of Inupiaq Eskimos, I have been living and studying this history all my life. In a way, there are two histories of how Alaska came to be American  and two perspectives. One concerns how the Russians took possession of Alaska and eventually ceded it to the U.S. The other is from the perspective of my people, who have lived in Alaska for thousands of years, and for whom the anniversary of the cession brings mixed emotions, including immense loss but also optimism.

Russia looks east

The lust for new lands that brought Russia to Alaska and eventually California began in the 16th century, when the country was a fraction of its current size.

That began to change in 1581, when Russia overran a Siberian territory known as the Khanate of Sibir, which was controlled by a grandson of Genghis Khan. This key victory opened up Siberia, and within 60 years the Russians were at the Pacific.

The Russian advance across Siberia was fueled in part by the lucrative fur trade, a desire to expand the Russian Orthodox Christian faith to the heathen populations in the east and the addition of new taxpayers and resources to the empire.

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In the early 18th century, Peter the Great, who created Russias first navy, wanted to know how far the Asian landmass extended to the east. The Siberian city of Okhotsk became the staging point for two explorations he ordered. And in 1741, Vitus Bering successfully crossed the strait that bears his name and sighted Mt. Saint Elias, near what is now the village of Yakutat, Alaska.

Although Berings second Kamchatka expedition brought disaster for him personally when adverse weather on the return journey led to a shipwreck on one of the westernmost Aleutian Islands and his eventual death from scurvy in December 1741, it was an incredible success for Russia. The surviving crew fixed the ship, stocked it full of hundreds of the sea otters, foxes and fur seals that were abundant there, and returned to Siberia, impressing Russian fur hunters with their valuable cargo. This prompted something akin to the Klondike gold rush 150 years later.

The soft gold of the sea otter drew many Russians to Alaska. Dan Joling

Challenges emerge

But maintaining these settlements wasnt easy. Russians in Alaska, who numbered no more than 800 at their peak, faced the reality of being half a globe away from Saint Petersburg, then the capital of the empire, making communications a key problem.

Also, Alaska was too far north to allow for significant agriculture and therefore unfavorable as a place to send large numbers of settlers. So they began exploring lands farther south, at first looking only for people to trade with so they could import the foods that wouldnt grow in Alaskas harsh climate. They sent ships to what is now California, established trade relations with the Spaniards there, and eventually set up their own settlement at Fort Ross in 1812.

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Thirty years later, however, the entity set up to handle Russias American explorations failed and sold what remained. Not long after, the Russians began to seriously question whether they could continue their Alaskan colony as well.

Russias reach into North America once extended as far south as California, such as in this Russian Orthodox church in Fort Ross. Rich Pedroncelli

For starters, the colony was no longer profitable after the sea otter population was decimated. Then there was the fact that Alaska was difficult to defend, and Russia was short on cash due to the costs of the war in Crimea.

Americans eager for a deal

So, clearly, the Russians were ready to sell, but what motivated the Americans to want to buy?

In the 1840s, the United States had expanded its interests to Oregon, annexed Texas, fought a war with Mexico and acquired California. Afterward, Secretary of State Seward wrote in March 1848:

Our population is destined to roll resistless waves to the ice barriers of the north, and to encounter oriental civilization on the shores of the Pacific.

Almost 20 years after expressing his thoughts about expansion into the Arctic, Seward accomplished his goal.

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In Alaska, the Americans foresaw a potential for gold, fur and fisheries, as well as more trade with China and Japan. The Americans worried that England might try to establish a presence in the territory, and the acquisition of Alaska, it was believed, would help the U.S. become a Pacific power. And overall the government was in an expansionist mode backed by the then-popular idea of manifest destiny.

So a deal with incalculable geopolitical consequences was struck, and the Americans seemed to get quite a bargain for their $7.2 million.

Impact on Alaska Natives

But theres an alternate version of this history.

When Bering finally located Alaska in 1741, Alaska was home to about 100,000 people, including Inuit, Athabascan, Yupik, Unangan and Tlingit. There were 17,000 alone on the Aleutian Islands.

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Despite the relatively small number of Russians who at any one time lived at one of their settlements  mostly on the Aleutians Islands, Kodiak, Kenai Peninsula and Sitka  they ruled over the Native populations in their areas with an iron hand, taking children of the leaders as hostages, destroying kayaks and other hunting equipment to control the men, and showing extreme force when necessary.

The Russians brought with them weaponry such as firearms, swords, cannons and gunpowder, which helped them secure a foothold in Alaska along the southern coast. They used firepower, spies and secured forts to maintain security, and they selected Christianized local leaders to carry out their wishes. They also met resistance, however, such as from the Tlingits, who were capable warriors, ensuring their hold on territory was tenuous.

By the time of the cession, only 50,000 Indigenous people were estimated to be left, as well as 483 Russians and 1,421 Creoles (descendants of Russian men and Indigenous women).

On the Aleutian Islands alone, the Russians enslaved or killed thousands of Aleuts. Their population plummeted to 1,500 in the first 50 years of Russian occupation due to a combination of warfare, disease and enslavement.

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When the Americans took over, the United States was still engaged in its Indian wars, so they looked at Alaska and its Indigenous inhabitants as potential adversaries. Alaska was made a military district by Gen. Ulysses S. Grant.

For their part, Alaska Natives claimed that they still had title to the territory as its original inhabitants and having not lost the land in war or ceded it to any country  including the U.S., which technically didnt buy it from the Russians but bought the right to negotiate with the Indigenous populations. Still, Natives were denied U.S. citizenship until 1924, when the Indian Citizenship Act was passed.

During that time, Alaska Natives had no rights as citizens and could not vote, own property or file for mining claims. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, in conjunction with missionary societies, in the 1860s began a campaign to eradicate Indigenous languages, religion, art, music, dance, ceremonies and lifestyles.

It was only in 1936 that the Indian Reorganization Act authorized tribal governments to form, and only nine years later that overt discrimination was outlawed by Alaskas Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945. The law banned signs such as No Natives Need Apply and No Dogs or Natives Allowed, which were common at the time.

President Dwight Eisenhower signs a proclamation admitting Alaska as the 49th state on Jan. 3, 1959. AP Photo/Harvey Georges

Statehood and a disclaimer

Eventually, however, the situation improved markedly for Natives.

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Alaska finally became a state in 1959, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Alaska Statehood Act, allotting it 104 million acres of the territory. And in an unprecedented nod to the rights of Alaskas Indigenous populations, the act contained a clause emphasizing that citizens of the new state were declining any right to land subject to Native title  which by itself was a very thorny topic because they claimed the entire territory.

A result of this clause was that in 1971 President Richard Nixon ceded 44 million acres of federal land, along with $1 billion, to Alaskas Native populations, which numbered about 75,000 at the time. That came after a land claims task force that I chaired gave the state ideas about how to resolve the issue.

Today, Alaska has a population of 740,000, of which 120,000 are Natives.

This article was first published on March 29, 2017.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: William L. Iggiagruk Hensley, University of Alaska Anchorage

Read more:



William L. Iggiagruk Hensley is chair of the First Alaskans Institute.
Donald Trump styles himself as a strongman. And that's exactly what he sees in Vladimir Putin.

Their complicated relationship will be put to the test at a summit in Alaska on Friday, where the two leaders who claim to admire each other will seek to outmaneuver one another over how to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

While the two were close to a bromance during Trump's first term (2017-2021), their relationship has grown strained during his second term. The US president has expressed anger with Putin for pressing on with his brutal three-year-old war in Ukraine, which Trump calls "ridiculous."

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Trump describes the summit as "really a feel-out meeting" to evaluate Putin's readiness to negotiate an end to the war.

"I'm going to be telling him, 'You've got to end this war,'" Trump said.

The two leaders notably have radically different negotiating strategies: the Republican real estate magnate usually banks on making a deal, while the Russian president tends to take the long view, confident that time is on his side.

- 'Face to face' -

Referring to Trump's meeting with Putin, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that Trump needs "to see him face to face... to make an assessment by looking at him."

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Trump praised Putin for accepting his invitation to come to the US state of Alaska, which was once a Russian colony.

"I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country, as opposed to us going to his country or even a third place," Trump said Monday.

It will be only the second one-on-one meeting between the men since a 2018 Helsinki summit.

Trump calls Putin smart and insists he's always "had a very good relationship" with the Kremlin leader.

But when Russian missiles pounded Kyiv earlier this year, Trump accused him of "needlessly killing a lot of people," adding in a social media post: "He has gone absolutely CRAZY!"

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For his part, Putin has praised the Republican billionaire's push to end the Ukraine war. "I have no doubt that he means it sincerely," Putin said last year when Trump was running for president.

Since returning to the White House in January, the American president has forged a rapprochement with Putin, who has been sidelined by the international community since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Trump and Putin, aged 79 and 72 respectively, spoke for 90 minutes by phone in February, both expressing hope for a reset of relations.

But after a series of fruitless talks and continued deadly Russian bombing of Ukrainian cities, Trump has appeared increasingly frustrated.

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"I am very disappointed with President Putin," Trump told reporters last month. "I thought he was somebody that meant what he said. And he'll talk so beautifully and then he'll bomb people at night. We don't like that."

- The memory of Helsinki -

Trump and Putin have met six times, mostly on the sidelines of international events during Trump's first term.

In his recent book "War," Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward wrote that Trump spoke to Putin seven times between leaving the White House in 2021 and returning there earlier this year. The Kremlin denies this.

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But the defining moment in their relationship remains the July 16, 2018 summit in the Finnish capital Helsinki. After a two-hour one-on-one meeting, Trump and Putin expressed a desire to mend relations between Washington and Moscow.

But Trump caused an uproar during a joint press conference by appearing to take at face value the Russian president's assurances that Moscow did not attempt to influence the 2016 US presidential election -- even though US intelligence agencies had unanimously confirmed that it did.

"I have great confidence in my intelligence people, but I will tell you that President Putin was extremely strong and powerful in his denial today," Trump said. "He just said it's not Russia. I will say this: I don't see any reason why it would be."

Given this history, Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen is worried about what could happen at the Trump-Putin summit.

"I am very concerned that President Putin will view this as a reward and another opportunity to further prolong the war instead of finally seeking peace," she said.

lb/md/dl/abs
President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to hold their long-anticipated summit at a U.S. military base in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, according to a White House official.

The meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson will be their first during Trump's second term, as Trump seeks to bring an end to Russia's war in Ukraine.

CNN first reported the meeting's location, which Russians have touted for its historical significance: The United States purchased the territory from the Russian Empire 158 years ago.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the upcoming summit Tuesday as a feel-out meeting, saying it was not a concession to Putin. He added, Were going to know very early in that meeting whether this thing has any chance of success or not.

Trump said Monday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "wasnt a part of it when he was asked whether Zelenskyy had been invited.

I would say he could go, but hes gone to a lot of meetings. You know, hes been there for 3 years  nothing happened, Trump said.

Trump, Zelenskyy, Vice President JD Vance and European leaders are scheduled to convene virtually Wednesday, according to a European official with direct knowledge of the meetings.

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Zelenskyy and Ukrainian officials have repeatedly said they will not forfeit territory that Russia illegally annexed.

Trump said last week that Ukraine and Russia would most likely be swapping parts of territory as part of a deal to end the war.

Its actually nothing easy. Its very complicated," Trump said at the time.

Trump repeatedly claimed on the campaign trail that he would end the war within the first 24 hours of his second term. At a presidential debate in September, he even said he could resolve the conflict before I even become president.

After he took office, Trump said that timeline was "an exaggeration."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Among the constants in Donald Trump's turbulent career have been a flair for drama and a belief in his dealmaking powers. In inviting Vladimir Putin, Trump will have plenty of the first -- and put the second to the ultimate test.

Trump will speak to his Russian counterpart about the Ukraine war on Friday in Alaska, the two presidents' first standalone summit since a 2018 meeting in Helsinki where Trump's cowed appearance haunted him long afterward.

US officials said that Putin himself suggested the meeting. Trump agreed to invite him despite publicly saying how frustrated he has been with Putin's refusal to accept any proposal to halt the war.

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Trump's invitation to Putin, who is under indictment by the International Criminal Court, effectively ends the West's shunning of the Russian president since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, whose leader Volodymyr Zelensky has called the Alaska trip a "personal victory" for Putin.

Trump and his aides have quickly tried to play down the significance.

Trump, voicing uncharacteristic humility about his diplomacy, said it was a "feel-out meeting" that would not in itself lead to a deal on Ukraine.

But he rounded on the "fired losers and really dumb people" who have described the summit a propaganda victory for Putin, singling out in particular John Bolton, who served as his national security advisor for part of his first term.

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"If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal!" Trump thundered on his website, Truth Social.

Trump has said he will speak with Zelensky and other European leaders immediately after the summit, which is expected to take place at Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson in Anchorage.

All have insisted that Ukraine not be excluded from talks on its fate.

"European leaders, in the past, had the experience that whoever talks to Donald Trump last makes the most important impressions," said Liana Fix, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.

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There is "a very strong urge in Donald Trump to be the one who brings peace to Ukraine -- even for a fleeting moment of time, to have the picture of him agreeing with Vladimir Putin to a ceasefire," she said.

- Latest swing in strategy -

Trump had vowed to end the war, which has killed tens of thousands, within 24 hours of returning to the White House. But he has found the path difficult -- and his tactics have swung drastically.

Trump berated Zelensky during a heated on-camera meeting at the White House where Vice President JD Vance accused Ukraine of ingratitude for US support, which Trump briefly shut down.

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Ukraine quickly realized it had to stomach Trump's approach and signed on to his ceasefire bid.

When Putin did not, Trump threatened sanctions on Russia, only to agree to meet Putin.

"The mere fact of holding such a summit will be a victory for Putin," Russian political analyst Konstantin Kalachev said.

"Putin has not offered Trump anything significant, and Trump is already inviting him to Alaska," he added, also calling the lack of new US sanctions by Trump an "unconditional victory" for Russia.

Trump has rejected criticism that he is soft, noting that he ramped up tariffs on India, a key buyer of Russian oil.

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But Trump has also pushed for concessions from Zelensky, who has refused to surrender any land that Russia seized by force.

George Beebe, the former director of Russia analysis at the CIA who is now director of grand strategy at the Quincy Institute, which supports military restraint, said that Trump could begin to work out the outlines of a deal to end the war.

Russia could begrudgingly accept eventual European Union membership for Ukraine if it, in turn, stays out of NATO, the transatlantic military alliance, Beebe said.

"As long as that relationship is limited to political and economic ties rather than military commitments, I think that's something that they can live with," Beebe said of Russia.

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But he said that such a short-notice summit at the presidential level raised expectations that may not be met.

"Trump is tackling an issue that is fraught with political danger, and there's absolutely no guarantee that this is going to be a success," Beebe said.

aue-sct-ft/md
In an Aug. 11 news conference, President Donald Trump said his administration is considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug.

Marijuana has been classified as a Schedule 1 drug since the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. Schedule I drugs are defined as highly dangerous, addictive and without medical use.

This is not the first attempt to reclassify marijuana. Joe Biden worked to have the Department of Health and Human Services reclassify the drug as a Schedule III in 2022. In 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration also began working to reclassify the drug, but the change never came.

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"We're looking at reclassification and we'll make a determination over the next few weeks," Trump said at the Aug. 11 news conference.

Here's what this could mean for Tennessee.

Is marijuana legal in Tennessee?

Marijuana is not legal in Tennessee, but hemp products can be sold.

Hemp and marijuana are the same species, according to Healthline. Theyre just two different names for cannabis. The main difference between the terms is how much THC each contains.

The term hemp is used to mean cannabis that contains 0.3% or less THC content by dry weight, according to Healthline.

Marijuana is generally associated with getting high. The term legally refers to cannabis that has more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.

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Earlier this year, Tennessee furthered its restrictions on cannabis products through a state bill.

The bill established tax rates for different types of cannabis products, outline licensure requirements for suppliers, wholesalers, and retailers, set fines for violations, and designate state enforcement authority.

Redefining hemp: Tennessee lawmakers finalize sweeping new hemp regulations and restrictions

The most impactful portion of the legislature is that it would limit the production and sale of non-Delta-9 THC hemp-derived cannabinoid products to a concentration of 0.3%. This limits the types of hemp products that can be sold within the state.

What does rescheduling cannabis mean for Tennessee?

While this would be a landmark change, it would not change the state's current cannabis regulations. It would still be a controlled substance even with the new classification.

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In 2022, President Joe Biden directed the Department of Health and Human Services, HHS, to conduct a review of how marijuana is scheduled. In the review, the HHS recommended that the drug be rescheduled to a Schedule III.

Similarly, the Drug Enforcement Administration was expected to make a move to reclassify the drug to a Schedule III in May of 2024. The proposal would follow a Department of Justice recommendation and lead the DEA to take public comments on a plan to recategorize marijuana.

Marijuana being classified as a Schedule III drug means it would be classified alongside drugs including ketamine, testosterone, anabolic steroids and Tylenol with codeine. These drugs have "moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence," according to the DEA.

The laws regarding Schedule III drugs in Tennessee vary, as some drugs are legal with limitations and others are not. Therefore, it is hard to tell if the reclassification of marijuana to a lower schedule would sway Tennessee lawmakers to legalize the drug in any way.

Where is marijuana legal?

Marijuana is legal for either medicinal or recreational use in 45 states, but the federal government still classifies it as a Schedule I drug.

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According to DISA Global Solutions, marijuana is legal for medical and recreational purchase and consumption in the following states:

Alaska

Arizona

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Illinois

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Missouri

Montana

Nevada

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

Ohio

Oregon

Rhode Island

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

Washington, D.C.

What is a Schedule III drug?

Schedule 3 drugs are controlled substances, but these types of drugs are subject to various rules that allow for some medical uses. The regulations also outline the federal criminal prosecution of anyone who traffics in drugs without permission. Schedule 3 drugs include things like ketamine, anabolic steroids and some acetaminophen-codeine combinations.

Marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug, which is believed to be highly dangerous, addictive and not for medical use. The reclassification would move it from this category to a Schedule III drug that can be lawfully prescribed as medication.

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Schedule III drugs are narcotics classified by the federal government. Examples of Schedule III drugs include:

Products containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage unit (Tylenol with codeine)

Ketamine

Anabolic steroids

Testosterone

Jordan Green covers trending news for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at jordan.green@commercialappeal.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Could Trump reclassifying marijuana impact legalization in Tennessee?
Washington  President Trump said Wednesday that the White House will seek "long-term extensions" from Congress to maintain control of D.C.'s Metropolitan Police Department, part of the president's push to crack down on crime in the nation's capital.

"I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously," Mr. Trump said.

Mr. Trump announced the deployment of members of the National Guard to D.C. on Monday and said the federal government would also take control of the D.C. police. In an executive order Monday, the president directed the D.C. mayor to provide the services of the Metropolitan Police Department for federal use "for the maximum period permitted under section 740 of the Home Rule Act."

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The 1973 law allows the president to require the D.C. mayor to provide "such services of the Metropolitan Police force as the President may deem necessary and appropriate" for a period of 48 hours, a deadline that can be extended by up to 30 days by notifying Congress, which the president has done. Any extension beyond 30 days requires a joint resolution passed by the House and Senate.

President Trump speaks during an event at the Kennedy Center on Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington, D.C. / Credit: Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

Speaking at the Kennedy Center, Mr. Trump said he expects Congress to extend the federal takeover, saying, "We think the Republicans will do it almost unanimously."

"We're going to need a crime bill that we're going to be putting in and it's going to pertain initially to D.C.," Mr. Trump said. "We're going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you can't have 30 days."

Although Republicans have majorities in both the House and Senate, the extension would require the support of at least seven Democrats to advance, since most legislation functions under a 60-vote threshold in the upper chamber, where Republicans control 53 seats.

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The president said he could extend the takeover without Congress' help "if it's a national emergency," but he said, "I don't want to call a national emergency."

"If I have to, I will," Mr. Trump added. "But I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously."

According to local police data, violent crime in D.C. has been declining for the last year and a half after spiking in 2023. Robberies have dropped by 28% this year and overall violent crime is down 26%, as of Aug. 11. The Justice Department said violent crime in the capital city hit its lowest level in more than 30 years last year.

Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane

Sneak peek: Unmasking the Zombie Hunter

D.C. reacts after Trump orders federal law enforcement takeover to combat crime
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump teased plans to ask Congress for a relatively small amount of money to bolster safety operations in the nations capital just days after deploying the National Guard to crack down on city crime.

During remarks at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, Trump told reporters he would send Congress a crime bill specifically targeted toward Washington, D.C., that could allow his federal oversight to extend past the 30-day allotment currently in place. Trump also pointed toward funds that would be used to fix up the capital, such as fixing potholes in the street and cleaning up parks.

Were going to need a crime bill that were going to be putting in, and its going to pertain initially to D.C., Trump said. Were going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days.

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The suggestion of increased funding for the city comes after lawmakers inadvertently cut $1.1 billion from the citys budget earlier this year  and have failed to reverse that legislative mishap despite promising to do so in March.

The budget setback occurred when Congress passed a temporary spending bill to keep the government funded at 2024 levels until the end of the fiscal year. But lawmakers forgot to include language that exempts the nations capital from spending freezes, resulting in a $1.1 billion shortfall.

Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as Metropolitan Police get into their vehicles to continue patrolling Washington, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in northwest Washington on Kennedy St. NW. | Jacquelyn Martin

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has since moved funds around by invoking a 2009 federal law that gives the city power to unilaterally increase its city funding by as much as 6%. That way, Bowser contended, the city wouldnt need to make personnel changes or affect public safety.

However, the city could still see major budget cuts after the Trump administration posted a grant notice earlier this week that would reduce D.C. security funding by 44%  despite the president saying he needed to federalize Washington because of its out of control crime.

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Trump announced plans on Monday to federalize the D.C. police department, invoking a rarely used statute that allows the president to take control of the citys law enforcement on a temporary basis. The order would expire in 30 days unless explicitly extended by Congress.

Thats unlikely to happen as it would require Democratic support in the Senate. As a result, Trump suggested he might look at other ways to extend federal presence in the capital without congressional approval.

One way to do that, he said, is by declaring a national emergency.

If its a national emergency we can do it without Congress, but we expect to be before Congress very quickly, Trump said.

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I dont want to call a national emergency, Trump noted, but said: If I have to, I will.

The latest threats highlight an ongoing challenge for D.C. officials, who have been trying to crack down on rising rates of youth crime. Since the beginning of 2025, juveniles have made up more than 50% of arrests related to carjacking, according to D.C. police. A majority of those arrests are made up of teens who are 15 and 16 years old.

Bowser has acknowledged the recent trends, even going so far as to create a special police unit in April tasked with responding to juvenile crime. Curfew zones for the citys juveniles have also been put in place this week.

Trump also suggested D.C. is just the beginning of his efforts to crack down on crime in major cities, telling reporters on Monday that were starting very strongly with D.C., and were going to clean it up real quick.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he could potentially bring up the recent hack of U.S. federal court databases with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their meeting in Alaska later this week.

Investigators believe that hackers, including Russian actors, breached the courts electronic filing system, potentially exposing sensitive court data across multiple U.S. states. The major hack was first reported by POLITICO last week.

I guess I could, are you surprised? Trump said during a press conference Wednesday in response to a question from a reporter on whether he would bring up the hacking activity with Putin during their planned meeting on Friday. They hack in, thats what they do. Theyre good at it, were good at it, were actually better at it.

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This marks the first time Trump has publicly acknowledged the hack since it was brought to light last week.

The president has previously avoided public confrontations with Russia about its digital influence activities. During a meeting with Putin in 2018, Trump went against U.S. intelligence findings and asserted that Russia did not meddle in the 2016 presidential elections, despite evidence to the contrary.

The latest hacking effort compromised the judiciarys Case Management/Electronic Case Files  or CM/ECF  which allows legal professionals to upload and manage case documents, along with the public-facing PACER system that provides some general access to the same data. Officials fear that this breach might allow Latin American drug cartels to identify and target witnesses involved in criminal trials against them.

Officials believe the hackers exploited basic and unresolved vulnerabilities in the court filing system that were first discovered in 2020.

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Following POLITICOs initial report, the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts announced that it is stepping up cybersecurity measures and is working with impacted courts to mitigate the impact of the attacks.

Congress is also keeping a close eye on the incident. Lawmakers on relevant House and Senate committees were briefed on the hack in July, and will receive a further classified briefing on the incident when Congress returns from its August recess after Labor Day.

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, on Wednesday blasted the judiciary for not doing more to protect their networks since 2020, telling POLITICO in a statement that like many Americans, I am sick of learning about hacks that could have been prevented with cybersecurity 101.

It is long past time to require federal courts to meet the same minimum cybersecurity standards as federal agencies, Wyden said.
After just two days, President Donald Trump is already trumpeting his decision to federalize the Washington, D.C., police force and send in the National Guard as a rousing success.

"As of about yesterdayyou see a big change and people are feeling safer already," said Trump at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, during remarks that were recorded by Reason's Justin Zuckerman. "They were afraid to walk out. They're not afraid anymore."

City residents who are eager for sound solutions to D.C.'s enduring crime problems should hold their applause: A temporary display of police force is not a panacea for the widespread government incompetence that continues to cripple D.C.'s criminal justice system.

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Dozens of National Guard troops appeared on the National Mall on Tuesday, and up to 800 of them are expected to come to D.C. by next week. The increased police presence in the nation's capital this week has yielded more than 100 arrests. The most significant category of arrests on Tuesday was for firearms violations, with 33 arrested on such charges and 24 guns confiscated by police. Authorities also arrested 23 illegal immigrants, seven alleged drug offenders, and one homicide suspect.

Federal law enforcement agents were also spotted in the upscale Georgetown neighborhood, as well as Navy Yardan area of the city that has seen a significant number of carjackings in recent years, including that of a sitting member of Congress.

The crime situation in D.C. is extremely complex: The statistics are not entirely reliable, and jurisdictional standoffs between the city and the feds were common even before Trump's latest move. Moreover, several factors, including the appallingly high number of murders in 2023 and the enduring trend of marauding teenagers committing opportunistic acts of violence and theft, have certainly created the impression that the city is as dangerous as evereven though official reports suggest that the post-pandemic crime surge has abated. Trump's appraisal of the crime situation may be somewhat divorced from reality, but it's nevertheless true that the nation's capital should be setting a much better example. D.C. residents certainly deserve more from their government.

In theory, hiring more police officers could be a piece of the puzzle; both the mayor and the chief of police maintain that police staffing levels are historically low. A temporary infusion of National Guard troops stationed around the monumentswhich are relatively safe areaswill not make much difference, however.

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The incident that kicked off Trump's federal takeover of the D.C. police was the assault of 19-year-old former Department of Government Efficiency staffer, Edward Coristine, by a group of juvenile vandals near Dupont Circle and Logan Circle, trendy areas of the city with high levels of foot traffic. An increased police presence in neighborhoods that have recently become prone to antisocial behavior from large numbers of young people would probably deter opportunistic criminal attacks.

Of course, tackling the most serious kinds of crime in D.C.gun homicideswould involve sending more police, or at least the most experienced police, into the most crime-ridden areas of the city: Wards 7 and 8, which are on the other side of the Anacostia River. Unfortunately, as Joseph Bishop-Henchmen documented in his must-read article for the July 2024 issue of Reason, police officers with the most seniority and expertise get their choice of jobs, and usually leave the really tough policing to the rookies.

Indeed, this speaks to the city's overall problem, which is well explained by Bishop-Henchmen: Local government incompetence caused a total breakdown of D.C.'s criminal justice system. A main culprit is the D.C. forensics laboratory, which was de-accredited in 2021 due to numerous problems. This meant that for years, prosecutors had no working lab to help process evidence to assist with cases; as a consequence of this and other issues, successful prosecutions plummeted. Earlier this year, the crime lab regained accreditation, though it is reportedly still unable to do ballistics testing.

For D.C.'s crime situation to improve dramatically, high crime areas need somewhat more attention from the authorities, homicide detectives need to put more effort into solving cases, and prosecutors need both the tools and the willpower to do their jobs effectively. If federal troops intend to assist with any of that, great. If not, then Trump's takeover is at best a stunt.

The post Trump Says 'People Are Feeling Safer Already,' but Federal Troops Won't Fix D.C.'s Crime appeared first on Reason.com.
President Trump says there will be severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin doesnt end the war in Ukraine. He held a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and other European leaders today before his Friday summit with Putin. Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor, joins Chris Jansing to provide his insight and expertise on the conflict.
Farmers and workers across Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday joined a nationwide protest called by the Sanyukt Kisan Manch, voicing their opposition to anti-farming and neo-liberal economic policies, the Centre's trade decisions, and local land eviction drives. The protest in Shimla was organised at four designated spots and was marked by symbolic demonstrations and the submission of memorandums to authorities. Speaking to ANI, Sohan Singh Thakur, President of the Himachal Pradesh Apple Growers' Association, said that apart from the tariff expected to be imposed on farming products, there is also the issue of land eviction. "This protest has been held as part of a national call against the anti-farmer and anti-horticulturist policies that are being implemented in the country. In Himachal Pradesh, the local issues--especially the eviction of farmers in the name of land acquisition have also compelled us to demonstrate. Similar protests are being organised across the entire state and nationwide," he said. Thakur alleged that the state government's handling of land disputes, particularly in cases where the High Court had not ordered the felling of trees or the eviction of residents, was "careless and anti-farmer." "In January, the High Court gave a judgment that contained no direction for eviction or tree felling. Yet, evictions are being carried out. The Chief Minister had joined our protest in Uttar Test and promised action within the month. But so far, our demands have been ignored. Even the Advocate General failed to adequately present the farmers' case in court. This is a clear example of the state government's dual policy offering sympathy during protests, but opposing farmers during implementation," Sohan Singh Thakur said. The Apple Growers' Association, Thakur said, is now preparing to challenge the recent deletion of Section 163-A of the Himachal Pradesh Land and Revenue Act done after 23 years before the Supreme Court. The protest also targeted the Union government's stand on agricultural imports. Thakur demanded a 100 per cent import duty on all agricultural products to protect domestic producers. "We demand that the import duty on all agricultural products be raised to 100%. This is necessary to counter the ongoing assault on agricultural and dairy production in the country. The recent visit of the US Vice President to India has led to drafts and policies that favour American trade interests, and the government appears to be bowing before the US. This nationwide protest is against such policies," he said. He alleged that recent import policies, especially in edible oils, were benefiting big corporate houses. "If the government takes a decision in favour of farmers on tariffs, we will welcome it. But our fear is that future decisions may be guided by the interests of industrial houses rather than farmers. Import decisions must be in the national and state interest and in favour of farmers. We expect the government to act accordingly," Thakur added. The association also cited several recent eviction cases as examples of injustice, among them the case of a young farmer, Naresh, whose parents died in a landslide two decades ago. Land had been allotted to the family by the local SDM for building a house, but it has now been declared an encroachment, and Naresh has been evicted. "Such actions are displacing Dalit and poor families in places like Rohru and elsewhere. The Apple Growers' Association and the Kisan Sabha will fight these cases legally and will also confront the state machinery directly if needed," Thakur warned. The protest in Shimla is part of a larger mobilisation where farmers' organisations across India are pressing for stronger protection against foreign imports, fair pricing, and the prevention of forced land acquisition. (ANI)
Federal judges in several states have rejected President Trump's controversial picks for top prosecutor posts in a rare standoff between the courts and the White House, but those acting U.S. attorneys will nonetheless remain in place because of actions taken by the president and the Justice Department.

File: Alina Habba, acting US attorney for New Jersey, during swearing-in ceremony at the White House, on March 28, 2025. / Credit: Bonnie Cash/UPI/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Last month in New York and New Jersey, panels of federal district judges declined to appoint two of Mr. Trump's interim choices to serve as U.S. attorneys  John Sarcone III of New York and Alina Habba of New Jersey. By law, if the Senate fails to confirm a nominee for a judicial post within 120 days, the District Court can extend the interim appointee or select someone else to serve in an acting capacity until a presidential nominee is confirmed.

Undated photo: John Sarcone III, acting U.S. attorney, Northern District of New York / Credit: Justice Department

In New York, the court declined to extend the interim top prosecutor but also declined to appoint an acting U.S. attorney.

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In New Jersey, a panel of judges replaced Habba with Desiree Leigh Grace, the first assistant to the U.S. attorney and the next-highest ranking prosecutor in that office. Within hours, however, the Justice Department fired Grace and installed Habba as acting U.S. attorney, extending her term for another 210 days.

To keep Sarcone in place, Attorney General Pam Bondi named him "special attorney to the attorney general," effectively giving him the power of a U.S. attorney, and he was named first assistant U.S. attorney, leaving him in charge of the office.

The Trump administration employed similar maneuvers in Nevada and California in late July, this time appointing both interim U.S. attorneys in an acting capacity before the judges were to vote. Those two are Bilal "Bill" Essayli in California, and Sigal Chattah in Nevada.

Why some of the acting U.S. attorneys have faced resistance

File: US Attorney for Central District of California Bilal Essayli, speaks at news conference in Los Angeles on June 12, 2025. / Credit: PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

The clash with the judiciary has come as some legal experts have expressed concern about actions taken by these Trump appointees or by comments they've made.

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Essayli, a former assistant U.S. attorney for California, has been accused of politicizing the office by pushing his staff to pursue cases regarded as being aligned with Trump's interests. This has contributed to an exodus from the Los Angeles-based district, Bloomberg Law reported. Essayli is the only one of the four who has prior experience as a prosecutor.

Chattah was in private practice and previously ran unsuccessfully for state attorney general in Nevada. Critics have also accused her of using public office to pursue prosecutions of her political opponents and criticized her use of racially charged language in the past.

A group of more than 100 former judges sent a letter to the District Court in Nevada, urging the judicial panel to reject the extension of Chattah's appointment on the grounds of inflammatory remarks she had made in the past. In 2022, she said of her opponent state attorney general's race, Aaron Ford, who is Black, that he should be "hanging from a f****** crane."

Undated photo of Sigal Chattah / Credit: Justice Department

Chattah, an Israeli, said the comment was not racist and is just a common Israeli saying. Ford won the election and is still in office as Nevada's attorney general.

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Habba was one of Mr. Trump's personal lawyers before his 2024 election and was initially named White House counselor. As interim U.S. attorney, she initiated investigations into New Jersey's Democratic governor and attorney general, on allegations that they were not cooperating with federal immigration authorities. Upon being named interim U.S. attorney, Habba said she'd use the office to help "turn New Jersey red," though U.S. attorneys are supposed to remain politically neutral. She also filed and later dropped a criminal trespassing charge against the Newark mayor, a Democrat, and accused Democratic Rep. Monica McIver of felony assault at an immigration protest.

It's not just judges, but also defendants who are challenging Habba's appointment, alleging she holds the office unlawfully. Two individuals being prosecuted by Habba's office have filed motions to dismiss their cases, arguing she illegitimately holds the position.

On Friday, Sarcone's office in the Northern District of New York subpoenaed state Attorney General Letitia James as part of its investigation into whether she and her office violated Mr. Trump's civil rights in the fraud lawsuit she brought against him in 2022. He was found liable of civil fraud in February 2024, months before his re-election. Sarcone served in Mr. Trump's first administration as a regional administrator for the General Services Administration.

The U.S. Attorney's offices in Northern New York, New Jersey, Nevada and California have not responded to requests for comment.

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Sidestepping the Senate and the Judiciary

Trump's administration isn't the first to exploit the acting official loophole  several administrations have relied on it in the past. In 2014, President Barack Obama appointed Vanita Gupta as acting head of the Justice Department Civil Rights Division amid the department's investigation into the Missouri shooting of unarmed teen Michael Brown by a police officer. As the CATO Institute's Thomas Berry pointed out, Obama never nominated Gupta for the permanent position, but she served well beyond the 210 days allowed by the Vacancies Act. Gupta left office in January 2017, as Mr. Trump was beginning his first term.

The scheme has received more attention from legal experts recently in light of the controversial nature of the four attorneys and the administration's overt push to sidestep the Senate and the judiciary.

A Justice Department spokesperson said Mr. Trump and Bondi have built a "fantastic team" of prosecutors with full departmental support. The spokesperson declined to comment on why the department chose to use the Vacancies Act to temporarily appoint the individuals, rather than sending them through the traditional Senate confirmation process.

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The Justice Department's use of the maneuver has raised the ire of several legal experts, who said they were concerned by the administration's moves to sidestep judicial authority.

Michael Luttig, a former federal judge who signed onto the letter urging the rejection of Chattah's appointment, told CBS News that Mr. Trump's efforts to install U.S. attorneys without the Senate's approval are a part of a larger assault on the justice system and the rule of law.

"Every action that he's taken has been intended to harass, intimidate and threaten the federal judiciary into submission to his will," Luttig said.

U.S. attorneys and the Vacancies Act

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Across the country, 93 U.S. attorneys lead the federal prosecutor's office in their judicial district. Each presidential appointee must be confirmed by the Senate to serve on a permanent basis. Confirmation can be a lengthy process, so, under the Vacancies Act, the president can temporarily appoint an individual to fill Senate-confirmed roles on an interim basis to allow agencies and offices to continue to function.

The act enables the president to appoint an interim U.S. attorney to any of those positions for 120 days. If the Senate hasn't confirmed a nominee by the end of that period, judges in the corresponding federal district court may extend the interim appointee or install a candidate they choose as acting U.S. attorney for another 210 days.

"My understanding is that under prior administrations, there would be some behind-the-scenes communication to make sure that the interim U.S. attorney picked by the administration was acceptable to the District Court," Berry told CBS News.

For three of the four contested nominees, Mr. Trump did not submit a nomination for the post to the Senate within the 120-day interim period. He nominated Habba to be U.S. attorney for New Jersey on June 30 but withdrew her nomination when it became evident that the Senate would not confirm her.

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In addition to Habba's rejection by the judges, also standing in the way of her ability to stay on in the office was her nomination. Under the Vacancies Act, a person may not serve as an acting officer if the president has submitted that individual's nomination to the Senate.

Withdrawing Habba's nomination meant Mr. Trump could fire Grace and appoint Habba to replace her as first assistant, allowing her to assume the acting title.

In New York, Sarcone reached the end of his 120-day term without a nomination pending before the Senate. When his term expired, the District Court declined to extend Sarcone, and didn't appoint anyone to the position. The Justice Department says its appointment of Sarcone as "special attorney to the attorney general" would confer him with the authority of a U.S. attorney and is "indefinite."

As of Tuesday, six of Mr. Trump's 49 interim U.S. attorneys have served the maximum 120 days allowed under that status. Andrew Boutros of the Northern District of Illinois and Joseph Murphy of the Western District of Tennessee, have also seen their interim appointments expire.

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In their cases, though, the District Courts voted to extend them on the 120th day, a person familiar with the decisions confirmed to CBS News.

It's not clear whether the Trump administration will continue to use the maneuver to appoint other U.S. attorneys. Mr. Trump has named at least 45 interim U.S. attorneys since January and has submitted nominations to the Senate for at least 30 of those picks.

In early August, the Senate approved the first two of Mr. Trump's nominees for U.S. attorneys: Jeanine Pirro to serve in the District of Columbia and Jason A. Reding Quinones for the Southern District of Florida.

Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, who serves as the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a statement to CBS News that the Trump administration is "abusing" the interim appointment authority to install loyalist interim U.S. attorneys without Senate confirmation.

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President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Trump says he's placing D.C. police under federal control, deploying National Guard

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
NEED TO KNOW

Gavin Newsom mimicked Donald Trump's Truth Social persona to announce that California intends to redraw congressional districts in favor of Democrats

Newsom's bold move comes as a counterstrike after Texas declared its intent to undergo redistricting in a non-census year in order to favor Republicans' outlook in the midterms

Newsom will hold a press conference later this week to address California's plan for redistricting, he claimed in his X posts

Gavin Newsom is speaking Donald Trump's language to fight back against red states' aggressive redistricting efforts.

The California governor, 57, penned a snarky message to the president  featuring a close resemblance to Trump's online rhetoric and notable all-caps format  regarding the non-census year redistricting in Republican-controlled states.

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On Aug. 12, Newsom claimed Trump "missed the deadline" to halt "illegal" redistricting in Texas, and thus California would respond by redrawing its own congressional maps that favor Democrats in order to neutralize Texas' gerrymandering.

"DONALD 'TACO' TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, 'MISSED' THE DEADLINE!!! CALIFORNIA WILL NOW DRAW NEW, MORE 'BEAUTIFUL MAPS,' THEY WILL BE HISTORIC AS THEY WILL END THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY (DEMS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE!)," Newsom wrote in a post on X.

The California governor also mirrored Trump's tendency towards self-praise and third-person reference, as well as the president's generous use of quotation marks, writing, "BIG PRESS CONFERENCE THIS WEEK WITH POWERFUL DEMS AND GAVIN NEWSOM  YOUR FAVORITE GOVERNOR  THAT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR 'MAGA.' "

Newsom finished the announcement with Trump's new favorite Truth Social sign-off, writing, "THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!  GN"

AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein Gavin Newsom and Donald Trump in January 2025. Gavin Newsom and Donald Trump in January 2025.

Newsom's post  the latest in a series of Trump-like posts about redistricting  comes as Texas legislators redraw the state's congressional districts in favor of Republican voters. While gerrymandering has played a role in American elections for decades, Texas' particular effort has been more blatant. It is also happening during a non-census year  meaning the redistricting cannot be attributed to shifting populations.

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Texas' redistricting plan is in response to Trump's insistence that Republicans are "entitled to five more seats" in the state, per Politico.

With a narrowly divided House, Texas' redistricting would make it more difficult for Democrats to take control of the chamber in the 2026 midterm elections. Many historically blue states  most notably, California, which wields the most electoral votes in the country  are now facing pressure to fight back against Texas' gerrymandering by redrawing their own congressional maps to favor Democrats.

Newsom's message to Trump urging him to "stand down" regarding red states' redistricting was first issued in a formal letter on Aug. 11, the governor shared on X. Shortly after, Newsom began copying Trump's unique Truth Social style in an apparent effort to evoke a response from the president.

Early on Aug. 12, Newsom issued his "second-to-last warning!!!" to Trump, who he called "the lowest polling president in recent history." At 5 p.m. the same day, Newsom shared one final warning  "maybe the most important warning in history!"  for Trump and red states to "stop cheating."

Newsom's saga of posts promised a press conference this week to detail California's plan of attack.

Read the original article on People
President Donald Trumps preferred design aesthetic, all gold everything with steakhouse touches, is straight out of the 80s. Still, youd hope that the commander-in-chief had updated his view of the world sometime between the decade of excess and 2025.

In a social media post on Wednesday about his upcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the 79-year-old Trump revived nagging concerns about his faculties. While railing against the medias supposedly unfair characterization of his diplomatic efforts, Trump referred to St. Petersburg by its Soviet-era name, Leningrad.

Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, Putin has already won. Whats that all about? he wrote on Truth Social. The Fake News is working overtime  If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal!

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The second-most populous city in Russia has not been called Leningrad since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, when the president was 45 years old. The gaffe raised eyebrows on social media. Users shared photos of Trump visiting the former USSR and wondered openly if the president was still stuck in the Cold War.

Trump in Leningrad, circa 1987.

His head is still there, circa 2025 pic.twitter.com/MBVyGljHbP  ITDUDE Fella (@The_Real_ITDUDE) August 13, 2025

Start your day with essential news from Salon.

Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Hes long gone at this point, wrote one X user.

Trump has been dogged by concerns about his aging brain since his campaign for a second term began. In recent months, members of Trumps team have questioned the presidents health anonymously. Trump has denied any suggestion that his mental faculties are declining.

The post Trumps Soviet slip revives concerns about his mental acuity appeared first on Salon.com.
President Donald Trump warned that "severe consequences" lie ahead for Russia if Russian President Vladimir Putin doesn't agree to stop the Ukraine war after they meet for a high-stakes summit in Alaska on Friday.

Responding to a question from a reporter after announcing this years recipients for the Kennedy Center Honors in Washington, D.C., Trump said "there will be very severe consequences" and that "he doesn't have to" specify what, should Russia not move toward a cease-fire.

Trump was then asked if he believes he can "convince" Putin to "stop targeting civilians in Ukraine," to which he replied: "I've had a lot of good conversations with him [Putin], but then I go home and see that a rocket hit a nursing home [or an apartment building] and people are laying dead in the street, so I guess the answer to that is 'no.'"

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The U.S. President went on to add that he wants to "end the war" and will be "very proud" to end it.

Trump's remarks came shortly after he shared an exceptionally constructive and good conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key European leaders on Wednesday, according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Debriefing the press after the call, for which Trump dialled in virtually and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance was also on the line, Merz suggested there is hope that something is moving, ahead of the Putin summit.

Read More: Zelensky on Trump, Putin, and the Endgame in Ukraine

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Zelensky, meanwhile, warned Trump that Putin is bluffing about being open to a cease-fire and lasting peace.

French President Emmanuel Macron divulged that while the group discussed a potential exchange of land, as of today, there are no serious territorial exchange plans on the table. Zelensky and Merz both reiterated the need for a cease-fire and strong Ukrainian security guarantees before any negotiations take place.

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, shared a positive outlook following the conversation.

Great call with [Trump], Zelensky, and European leaders ahead of President Trumps meeting with Putin in Alaska. We are united in pushing to end this terrible war and achieve just and lasting peace, Rutte said via social media. Appreciate Trumps leadership and close coordination with allies. The ball is now in Putins court.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 28, 2025. Saul LoebGetty Images

Shortly after the call, Vance spoke to U.S. soldiers at a military base in England, where he is currently on a trip with his family.

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We are going to make it our mission as an Administration to bring peace to Europe once again, Vance said.

Zelensky touched down in Berlin early Wednesday to meet with Merz and others ahead of the all-important conversation with Trump. The opportunity served as Zelenskys chance to make a final case to the U.S. President before he meets with Putin.

Trump referred to the European leaders as great people who want to see a deal done, in a Truth Social post early Wednesday.

After the conversation, Zelensky said that Trump struck down the idea that Russia could veto Ukraines NATO membership aspirations and reiterated calls for possible economic penalties on Russiawhich the U.S. President has repeatedly promised to enactshould a cease-fire deal not be reached.

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Trump has also agreed to first inform Zelensky, then the key European leaders, of any updates following his conversation with Putin, according to Merz.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin, Germany, on Aug. 13, 2025. Filip SingerGetty Images

Meanwhile, Trump previously stated that a lasting cease-fire in the Russia-Ukraine war, which was triggered when Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, could only come through the exchange of territories for the betterment of both. Zelensky, backed by his European allies, staunchly denounced that idea, stating that Ukraine will not gift their land to the occupier.

The Ukrainian leader doubled down on his position on Wednesday, saying: I stress that any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution.

World leaders, such as France's Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, had previously urged Trump to consider inviting Ukraine to the Putin summit while reiterating their support for the eastern European nation.

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The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine, the leaders of France, Italy, the U.K., Germany, Poland, and Finland said in a statement on Saturday. We remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force.

Russian troops advanced deeper into Ukraine on Tuesday, in what some have viewed as a bid to pressure Kyiv into considering Putins demands for more territory. We see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations, Zelensky said.

Furthermore, ahead of his call with Zelensky and others on Wednesday, Trump strongly criticized what he claimed has been very unfair media coverage of his upcoming talk with Putin.

Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people, Trump said via Truth Social, before referencing recent comments made by his former national security adviser John Bolton, who asserted that Putin has already won, in an interview with The Atlantic.

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Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The fake news is working overtime. (No tax on overtime), Trump maintained.

Read More: World Leaders React to Zelensky and Trumps Oval Office Showdown

Amid much discussion over the Trump-Putin summit and what, if any, progress can be made, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has seemingly downplayed expectations.

Addressing reporters on Tuesday, she said the meeting will serve as a listening exercise for Trump, in order for him to get a better understanding of how to end the war in Ukraine.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
(The Center Square)  President Donald Trump met virtually with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other European leaders before flying to Alaska for a U.S.-Russia bilateral meeting Friday.

European leaders outlined five principles during the emergency summit, including that Ukraine must be involved in future talks with Putin and that no Ukrainian territory will be ceded to Russia in exchange for a ceasefire.

Trump and Putin are set to meet in Anchorage on Friday to continue negotiations to end Russias three-year military involvement in Ukraine. Trump originally made Zelenskyys presence a condition for Fridays meeting but later conceded when Putin refused to meet if Kyiv participated.

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The war is happening in Europe, and Ukraine is an integral part of Europe, Zelenskyy said last week. Europe must be a participant in the relevant processes.

Zelenskyy maintained this stance Wednesday after Trump moved forward with a U.S.-Russia bilateral meeting without him, arguing that what concerns Ukraine must be discussed with Ukraine.

On Wednesday, Zelenskyy told Trump that Putin is bluffing by saying sanctions against Moscow will not be effective in pressuring him into a ceasefire.

The European Union has imposed heavy sanctions on Russia for its military involvement in Ukraine. The U.S. followed suit last month by shortening the 50-day window it gave Russia to broker a peace deal with Ukraine before it faces sanctions.

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Putin has reportedly suggested Russian occupation of Ukraines eastern Donbas region as part of a ceasefire deal. Zelenskyy rejected this proposal and maintained Wednesday that he will not surrender any territory to Moscow in a peace deal.

[My position] hasn't changed because it's based on the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian constitution hasn't changed, Zelenskyy said during a news conference after the virtual meeting.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted Zelenskyy in Berlin for the call. During the post-meeting news conference, Merz said Russias aggression toward Ukraine opened the wounds of European separation again, referencing European conflict during World War II.

Trump has expressed waning optimism for a peace deal with Russia in recent weeks, calling Putin cold and repeatedly stating his disappointment in Putins empty assurances to work out an end to the war in Ukraine.

When speaking about the upcoming meeting with Putin during a press conference Monday, Trump said that probably in the first two minutes Ill know exactly whether or not a deal can get done. He also said he intends to set up a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin after Fridays talks and will make it a trilateral meeting if necessary.
European Council President Antonio Costa has outlined the three key messages that US President Donald Trump delivered during extensive online talks with European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US officials on 13 August.

Source: Costa at a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Bregancon, France, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Costa and Macron had met at one of the French president's residences, Fort de Bregancon, to join the online talks with US and European leaders.

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"President Trump shared three critical goals with us. The first is a ceasefire," Costa said.

The second point Costa highlighted is that the US believes that "no one but Ukraine can negotiate on Ukrainian affairs".

"The third point is the United States willingness to work with Europe to strengthen security once a just and lasting peace for Ukraine has been achieved," the European Council president said.

Costa said he hopes the summit between Trump and Kremlin leader Putin in Alaska on 15 August will make it possible to "achieve a ceasefire and pave the way for peace in Ukraine".

Background:

Following the extensive talks involving European leaders, Zelenskyy and the US leadership, Macron stated that territorial issues "will not be negotiated" by anyone except Zelenskyy.

Commenting on the talks, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz outlined the positions conveyed in the conversation with Trump, particularly that "Ukraine is ready to discuss territorial issues, but the starting point will be the line of contact".

"Legal recognition of the occupied territories [as Russian] is not up for discussion," he said.

Zelenskyy said the issue of the meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska on 15 August had been covered in various talks. He added that Trump had suggested they would be in contact after the Alaska meeting.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Two days after he twice said he was 'going to Russia' for his Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump used a Soviet-era name to describe Russias second-largest city as he attacked a former adviser on social media.

Writing on Truth Social to complain about very unfair media coverage of his upcoming summit with the Russian president, he said the press would even go so far to say hed made a bad deal even if he reached an agreement for the United States to acquire Moscow and Leningrad without giving up anything in return.

The president appeared to be unaware of one small detail: The city he called Leningrad is actually called St. Petersburg and has been since city residents voted to ditch the Soviet-era name in June 1991.

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It was the second embarrassing geographic mix-up in three days for Trump, who on Monday also appeared to forget that the site of his sit-down with Putin (a former deputy mayor of St. Petersburg) is happening on sovereign American territory in the state of Alaska.

During a press conference on Monday, he claimed he was going to Russia to meet Putin even though Alaska has been American territory since the United States purchased the vast area from Czar Alexander II of the Russian Empire for the modest sum of $7.2 million. It became the USs 49th state in 1959.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is set to meet with President Donald Trump in Alaska Friday, was formerly the deputy mayor of St. Petersburg, once known as Leningrad. (REUTERS)

As he addressed reporters regarding crime in Washington, DC and his plans to deploy the National Guard and put the citys police under his control, Trump said: You know, Im going to see Putin. Im going to Russia on Friday. He repeated the gaffe later in the same briefing.

He is set to meet with the Russian president to discuss bringing an end to the war in Ukraine that Russia initiated when it invaded the sovereign nation in February 2022.

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The highly anticipated meeting between myself, as President of the United States of America, and President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska, Trump posted last week on Truth Social.

Ahead of the meeting, the White House is acknowledging that his upcoming summit isnt likely to result in a ceasefire.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked about the apparent Alaska-Russia gaffe at a briefing with reporters on Tuesday and largely brushed it off.

"The president said on the podium yesterday, twice, that he was planning to go to Russia," a reporter asked her. "Was that a verbal slip-up or does he actually plan to go to Russia?"

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"Perhaps there are plans in the future to travel to Russia and on Friday the president will be meeting with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, in Alaska, as you know," Leavitt responded.

She also appeared to lower expectations when she was asked about Trumps outlook on the sit-down, calling it a listening exercise for the President and acknowledging that Zelenskys absence would make it difficult if not impossible for any real solution to the conflict to emerge from the bilateral talks.

Look, only one party that's involved in this war is going to be present, and so this is for the President to go and to get ... a more firm and better understanding of of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end, she said.

The President inherited this conflict, and he is determined to end it. And it's a very complex and complicated situation.
Any peace deal that would see Ukraine cede territory to Russia in hopes of ending the war would be deeply unpopular with the Ukrainian people.

It would also be illegal under the countrys constitution.

US President Donald Trump, who is due to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaskas Anchorage on Friday, has suggested that a concession involving a swap of Ukrainian territories would be to the betterment of both sides.

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However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has categorically rejected the suggestion.

Kyiv "will not give Russia any awards for what it has done", Mr Zelensky said.

"Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier."

Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected the suggestion of a land swap (AP)

For the Ukrainian leader, such a deal would be a political disaster, risking significant public outcry after more than three years of intense bloodshed and sacrifice.

Crucially, he lacks the authority to sign off on it, as changing Ukraines 1991 borders runs counter to the countrys constitution.

For now, freezing the front line appears to be an outcome the Ukrainian people are willing to accept.

The current situation in Ukraine

Russia occupies about a fifth of Ukraine, from the countrys northeast to the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed illegally in 2014.

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The front line is vast and cuts across six regions  the active front stretches for at least 1,000 kilometres (680 miles)  but if measured from along the border with Russia, it reaches as far as 2,300 kilometres (1,430 miles).

Russia controls almost all of the Luhansk region and almost two-thirds of Donetsk region, which together comprise the Donbas, as the strategic industrial heartland of Ukraine is called.

Russia has long coveted the area and illegally annexed it in the first year of the full-scale invasion, even though it did not control much of it at the time.

Ukrainian servicemen of the 148th artillery brigade set up a M777 howitzer before firing towards Russian positions at the frontline in Zaporizhzhia region (AP)

Russia also partially controls more than half of the Kherson region, which is critical to maintain logistical flows of supplies coming in from the land corridor in neighboring Crimea, and also parts of the Zaporizhzhia region, where the Kremlin seized Europes largest nuclear power plant.

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Russian forces also hold pockets of territory in Kharkiv and Sumy regions in northeastern Ukraine, far less strategically valuable for Moscow.

Russian troops are gaining a foothold in the Dnipropetrovsk region. These could be what Moscow is willing to exchange for land it deems more important in Donetsk, where the Russian army has concentrated most of its effort.

Therell be some land swapping going on. I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody. To the good, for the good of Ukraine. Good stuff, not bad stuff. Also, some bad stuff for both, Mr Trump said on Monday.

Ukrainian forces are still active in the Kursk region inside Russia, but they barely hold any territory there, making it not as potent a bargaining chip as Kyiv's leaders had probably hoped when they launched the daring incursion across the border last year.

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Swapping Ukrainian controlled territory in Russia, however minuscule, will likely be the only palatable option for Kyiv in any land swapping scenario.

Ukrainian soldiers from air-defence unit of 59th brigade fire at Russian strike drones in Dnipropetrovsk region (AP)

Conceding land risks another invasion

Surrendering territory would see those unwilling to live under Russian rule to pack up and leave. Many civilians have endured so much suffering and bloodshed since pro-Moscow forces began battling the Ukrainian military in the east in 2014 and since the full-scale invasion in 2022.

From a military standpoint, abandoning the Donetsk region in particular would vastly improve Russias ability to invade Ukraine again, according to the Washington-based think tank Institute for the Study of War.

Bowing to such a demand would force Ukraine to abandon its fortress belt the main defensive line in Donetsk since 2014, "with no guarantee that fighting will not resume, the institute said in a recent report.

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The regional defensive line has prevented Russias efforts to seize the region and continues to impede Russias efforts to take the rest of the area, ISW said.

Ukraines constitution poses a major challenge to any deal involving a land swap because it requires a nationwide referendum to approve changes to the countrys territorial borders, said Ihor Reiterovych, a politics professor in the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

Changes in territorial integrity can be done only by the decision of the people  not the president, the cabinet of ministers or the parliament can change it, he said.

In the constitution it is written that only by referendum can changes to Ukraines territory be conducted.

Donald Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin on Friday (AFP/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

If during negotiations Mr Zelensky agrees to swap territory with Russia, "in the same minute he will be a criminal because he would be abandoning the main law that governs Ukraine, Mr Reiterovych said.

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Mr Trump said he was a little bothered by Mr Zelenskys assertion over the weekend that he needed constitutional approval to cede to Russia the territory that it captured in its unprovoked invasion.

I mean, hes got approval to go into a war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap? Mr Trump added.

Because therell be some land swapping going on. I know that through Russia and through conversations with everybody.

Mr Zelensky is still trying to regain the people's trust that was damaged when he reversed course on a law that would have diminished the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption watchdogs.

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The move was a red line for those citizens who are protective of the countrys institutions and are suspicious of certain members of Mr Zelenskys inner circle.

Mr Zelensky is trying to regain the Ukrainian peoples trust (PA Wire)

Freezing the conflict seems a lesser evil for Ukraine

Analysts like Mr Reiterovych dismiss a land swap as a distraction. Freezing the conflict along the current front line is the only option Ukrainians are willing to accept, he said, citing recent polls.

This option would also buy time for both sides to consolidate manpower and build up their domestic weapons industries. Ukraine would require strong security guarantees from its Western partners to deter future Russian aggression, which Kyiv believes is inevitable.

Still, freezing the conflict will also be difficult for Ukrainians to accept.

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Along with the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the partial occupation of Luhansk and Donetsk after that, it would require accepting that the Ukrainian military is not able to retake lost territories militarily. Kyiv accepted its inability to retake these territories but never formally recognised them as Russian.

A similar scenario could unfold in the new regions taken by Russian forces.

It also is not a viable long-term solution.

It is the lesser evil option for everyone and it will not provoke protests or rallies on the streets, Mr Reiterovych said.
President Donald Trump has exaggerated and, at times, misstated statistics and facts about crime in Washington, D.C., to justify his decision to deploy the National Guard in the city.

Despite violent crime rates falling in the nations capital over the last two years, Trump asserted, on Monday, that the city has been taken over by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs, and homeless people.

For that reason, the president has directed approximately 800 National Guard members to D.C. to help local law enforcement take control of what the president claims is uncontrollable crime. A portion of those National Guard members began patrolling the city on Tuesday.

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But Trumps depiction of D.C. as lawless and filled with violent criminals is inaccurate.

Violent crime rates in D.C. peaked in 2023 post-pandemic, according to data collected by the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. The number of homicides that year was 274, the highest since the late 1990s.

President Donald Trump used inaccurate or misleading crime statistics to explain his reason for deploying the National Guard in DC (Getty)

Murders in 2023 reached the highest rate, probably ever, Trump said on Monday. They say 25 years, but they dont know what that means because it just goes back 25 years, cant be worse.

The 2023 homicide rate was not the highest the city has ever experienced  data, which goes back to 1960, indicates homicides peaked in the nations capital in 1991. The 2023 rate has declined by 63 percent since 1991.

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Overall, violent crime has gone down by 35 percent since 2023. Sex abuse rates have gone down 71 percent, and assaults with a dangerous weapon have dropped 62 percent.

Members of the National Guard were deployed to D.C. after Trump claimed the city needed help reducing its crime (Reuters)

The White House released a fact sheet as part of Trumps announcement, citing D.C.s homicide rate in 2024 as the fourth highest in the country, with 27.3 per 100,000 residents.

However, the fact sheet appeared to incorrectly summarize information from a preliminary crime data report that exclusively used Washington Post reporting, which found D.C.s 2023 murder rate to be the fifth highest among the largest cities.

But that the homicide rate dropped in 2024 and was not ranked in the top four cities, according to the Post.

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Trump also compared D.C. homicide rates to those of the worst places on Earth, claiming murders are higher in the U.S. city than Bogota, Colombia, or Mexico City, Mexico.

Data indicates that Washington, D.C. has a higher homicide rate than Mexico City, which recorded approximately 10 per 100,000 residents, or Bogota, which recorded 15.2 per every 100,000 in 2024.

But neither Mexico City nor Bogota were ranked in the top 50 global cities with the highest homicide rates, according to the Igarape Institute, a Brazilian think tank.

Washington, D.C., was ranked 50 in 2023  meaning there are at least 49 other cities with higher homicide rates.
President Donald Trump has told European and Ukrainian leaders that the U.S. is willing to contribute security guarantees for Ukraine  with some conditions, according to three people familiar with the conversation.

The discussion took place as part of a German-arranged virtual meeting Wednesday aimed to coordinate American and European positions before Trumps Friday summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The three people  a European diplomat, a British official and a person briefed on the call  all said the U.S. was willing to play some sort of role in providing Kyiv with the means to deter future Russian aggression if a ceasefire is reached. The person briefed on the call said that Trump said he would only make such a commitment if the effort is not part of NATO.

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Trumps openness to such guarantees  a key demand for both Ukraine and Europe  help explain the cautious optimism European officials have expressed after the conversation and ahead of Fridays meeting. Trump did not specify what he meant by security guarantees and only discussed the broader concept, the person briefed on the call said.

Trump recognizes that an American security guarantee must be part of a final settlement and sees the U.S. as playing a role in that, the British official said.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trumps openness to an American role in a security guarantee.

Whatever the security guarantees may be, Trump has made clear that the U.S. will not continue to provide weapons or troops directly to Ukraine, though he will sell weapons to Europe to be used by Kyiv. It also is likely to be limited  and is sure to disappoint Ukraines backers who want more robust assurances from the U.S. to deter Russia from invading Ukraine again once the fighting is over.

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While European and Ukrainian officials feel that Trump has taken their advice into account and is seeking a ceasefire, they are wary of what will happen when Trump and Putin are alone together.

While Europe has sought to make arrangements for security guarantees without the U.S., such as by standing up a coalition of willing ground forces that could help defend any eventual peace deal, they want American backing for these efforts.

Trump has opposed lethal military assistance for Ukraine for most of his presidency. While the U.S. is not directly sending weapons, he has recently allowed Europe to purchase American weaponry to send to Ukraine  a move his administration says has added pressure to Moscow and convinced Putin to come to the table.
BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Wednesday took a swipe at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi's claim of "vote theft", saying that after "every defeat, Congress kept finding new excuses." He said that, seeing that it is losing the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, the Congress is already engaged in making false allegations in connivance with other Opposition parties. "If there is a record of losing elections 90 times under someone's leadership, then it is under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. Even within the party, questions are raised about Rahul Gandhi's leadership," Thakur said in a press conference at the BJP headquarters. "When he (Rahul Gandhi) loses elections, he raises questions about EVMs or blames the voters. Congress said, EVM is rigged for the BJP. Then they said, ban EVMs, bring back ballot papers. Then they said EVMs can be hacked remotely. After every defeat, Congress kept finding new excuses. Congress did not introspect but kept blaming EVMs, the Election Commission and constitutional institutions again and again. Seeing that it is losing the Bihar elections, Congress is already engaged in making false allegations in connivance with opposition parties," he said. He termed Rahul Gandhi's vote theft claim a "blunder". "Kal kuch Congress ke log keh rahe the Rahul Gandhi aur vipaksh ke netao ne bawandar khada kiya... Bawandar nahi blunder hai... Main Rahul ji ko yahi kaunga- dhool chehre par thi aur aaj aaina (mirror) saaf karte rahe (Yesterday some Congress people were saying that Rahul Gandhi and the opposition leaders created a storm... It's not a storm, it's a blunder... I will say the same thing to Rahul ji - there was dust on your face, and today you should keep cleaning the mirror," he said. Meanwhile, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge urged citizens to protect their voting rights and raise their voices against alleged electoral malpractices. Sharing a fictional video on X, he said, "Do not let your right to vote be snatched away. Ask questions, demand answers, this time! "Raise your voice against #VoteChori, Free constitutional institutions from the clutches of BJP!" (ANI)
President Donald Trump thinks that the leader of one of Americas biggest banks should focus on his DJ careerrather than delivering dire forecasts of how Trumps tariffs will hurt American consumers.

The president took to Truth Social on Monday to attack David Solomon, the CEO of Goldman Sachs who has sometimes also gone by the moniker DJ D-Sol.

David Solomon and Goldman Sachs refuse to give credit where credit is due, Trump wrote in a Tuesday morning post flexing his tariffs.

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They made a bad prediction a long time ago on both the Market repercussion and the Tariffs themselves, and they were wrong, just like they are wrong about so much else, he continued.

Projections from Goldman Sachs make it more difficult to envision President Trump's tariffs achieving their goal of Making America Wealthier Again. Trump lashed out at Goldman's CEO on Tuesday. / Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

I think that David should go out and get himself a new Economist or, maybe, he ought to just focus on being a DJ, and not bother running a major Financial Institution.

The screed comes days after the investment bank released a report predicting that consumers would soon feel the burn of his trade policies.

The report, spearheaded by Goldmans longtime chief economist Jan Hatzius, predicted that consumers would ultimately absorb 67 percent of the cost of recent tariffs (up from the current estimated burden of 22 percent).

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Goldmans predictions follow up on a similar report that the bank released in July, which predicted pain for consumers wallets and a drop in earnings for American businesses.

Hatzius is widely respected on Wall Street, in part for his correct prediction in 2008 that mortgage defaults could trigger a recession.

Solomon has led Goldman since 2018, navigating the bank through scandals and reducing the number of hours junior bankers are allowed to work.

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, who took over the reins of the megabank from Lloyd Blankfield in 2018. / REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

He has embodied the work-life balance that hes tried to cultivate by performing electronic dance music in his spare time, gracing stages at nightclubs and major music festivals.

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The New York Times wrote in 2017 that Solomon presents a youthful, unguarded side that is rare in the wealthy, button-down world of high finance.

Its that unguarded side that drew Trumps mockery on Tuesday, at a time when the president has lashed out at officials inside and outside of government who have delivered numbers he didnt like.

Ironically, the president has had several former Goldman execs serve under him across his two administrations, including Gary Cohn, Anthony Scaramucci, and Steve Mnuchin.

The pipeline of talent from Wall Street to Pennsylvania Avenue has slowed in Trump 2.0, but the banks fingerprints can still be traced to the halls of government around the world: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, for instance, spent 13 years at the bank before moving to the public sector.

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Solomon donated $2,000 to Hillary Clintons Senate campaign in 2000, and has donated to various Democratic candidates in the years since.

Goldman contributed $1 million to Trumps 2025 inaugural committee, joining several other prominent banks, including J.P. Morgan, Bank of America, and Citibank.

Goldman Sachs and the White House did not respond to immediate requests for comment.
Donald Trump has warned Vladimir Putin there would be severe consequences if he did not agree to end his war on Ukraine at their summit in Alaska on Friday.

The US president revealed on Wednesday his intention to seek an immediate second meeting with Putin, this time involving Volodymyr Zelensky, after their one-on-one talks in Alaska.

Mr Trump said: If the first one goes okay, well have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky and myself, if theyd like to have me there.

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Asked if Putin would face consequences if he failed to agree to stop the fighting, Mr Trump replied: Yes... there will be very severe consequences.

The Telegraph revealed that Mr Trump is also preparing to offer Putin access to rare earth minerals to incentivise him to end the conflict. These include opening up Alaskas natural resources and giving Russia access to critical minerals in Ukrainian territories currently occupied by Russia.

Having listened to Europe and Ukraines demands that nothing should be decided without Kyiv, Mr Trump said the high-stakes Alaska talks would only set the table for the second meeting.

Mr Trumps insistence on involving Ukraine is likely to bring relief to Kyiv and its allies, who feared that the US and Russian leaders could reach a deal that carves up Ukraine and sells out European security interests.

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Mr Zelensky earlier on Wednesday said that Mr Trump had supported the idea of security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure peace would be lasting.

It is not yet clear what those guarantees will be or who will provide them.

The US could provide air cover to Ukraine after the war and continue to allow European allies to buy weapons to give to Kyiv, including the much sought-after Patriot air defence systems.

Earlier on Wednesday, Mr Zelensky and his European allies took part in a virtual meeting with European leaders in which they laid out their red lines to Mr Trump ahead of his talks with Putin. Mr Trump said he rated the meeting a 10.

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Emmanuel Macron, the French president, said Mr Trump had agreed that Ukraine must be involved in any discussions about ceding land. Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, said Mr Trump  and Europe  were willing to ramp up the pressure on Russia if Fridays talks proved fruitless.

Europe and Kyivs demands included that Ukraine must be part of negotiations, that a ceasefire comes first, security guarantees must be provided, Russia should not have the right to veto Ukraines Nato prospects and there should be joint pressure on Russia.

A later statement by the so-called coalition of the willing demanded robust and credible security guarantees for Kyiv and said no limitations should be put on Ukraines forces.

Sir Keir Starmer said that the partnership was ready to implement its military plans for a post-war Ukraine as soon as a peace deal was in place. The Prime Minister added that real progress on security guarantees for Ukraine had been made.

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However, Putin  who has so far refused to back down on his maximalist demands  is likely to strongly resist Europes demands.

The Russian foreign ministry earlier on Wednesday said Moscows stance on the war had not changed since it was set out by Putin in June 2024.

As preconditions for a ceasefire and the start of talks, the Kremlin leader had demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from four regions that Russia has claimed as its own but does not fully control, and formally renounce its plans to join Nato.

Kyiv has rejected the conditions as tantamount to surrender.

Mr Zelensky said he reminded Mr Trump on their call that Putin is bluffing when he claims he is ready to negotiate and instead intends to push forward along the whole front.

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The Alaska meeting comes at a troubling moment on the battlefield as Russia races to seize as much land as possible ahead of peace talks.

According to battlefield data and analysts, Russian forces have made their biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in more than a year in an important section of the frontline in Ukraines east.

Russian special forces punched through exposed Ukrainian defences near Dobropillya in Donetsk this week in what may prove to be a major breakthrough for Moscow.

The breach could allow Russia to cut off the fortress city of Kramatorsk, one of the most vital strongholds in the Donbas still under Kyivs control.

07:42 PM BST

Our live coverage has ended for today. Heres a round-up of todays events:

Russia is making an 11th-hour dash for territory in Donetsk

Ukraine orders evacuations close to recent Russian leap

European leaders and Zelensky held constructive call with Trump

Kyiv is willing to discuss territorial issues, but not legal recognition of occupied land

Zelensky said Trump supports security guarantees for Ukraine

The US could guarantee air cover for Ukraine

Starmer said the coalition of the willing is ready to implement ceasefire plan

Telegraph revealed that Trump will present minerals deal to Putin in Alaska

Trump said Ukraine will be at second meeting with Putin

US president warned of severe consequences if Putin did not agree to a ceasefire

Zelensky warned Russia was preparing for a fresh military offensive,

Moscow said its stance on the war in Ukraine unchanged since June 2024

Putin praised North Korean troops fighting in Ukraine

US investigators accused Russia of being behind a hack into US federal court files

06:57 PM BST

Pictured: Ukrainian recruits train near frontline

Ukrainian recruits from the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade attend a military drill near the frontline - UKRAINIAN ARMED FORCES

06:33 PM BST

Finlands president said Trump took our messages well

Alexander Stubb, Finlands president, said that Donald Trump showed willingness to accept Europes demands for peace in Ukraine.

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The US president took our messages well, agreed on most of them, and will present them in Alaska.

He added that Mr Trump said he would not be discussing the ceding of Ukrainian territory with Vladimir Putin when they meet in Alaska on Friday  instead the focus will be on achieving a ceasefire.

06:14 PM BST

Coalition of Willing leaders set out stance on Ukraine ceasefire pathway

Britain, France and Germany, co-chairs of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, have set out their position on the pathway to a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, said the joint statement, published by Britain two days before a planned summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

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The Coalition of the Willing is ready to play an active role, including through plans by those willing to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased.

No limitations should be placed on Ukraines armed forces or on its cooperation with third countries. Russia could not have a veto against Ukraines pathway to EU and Nato.

05:54 PM BST

Trump supports security guarantees for Ukraine, says Zelensky

Donald Trump supports providing security guarantees for Ukraine following a peace settlement, Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

There should be security guarantees, Mr Zelensky said at a press conference alongside Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor. President Trump said that he supports this and about Americas readiness to take part.

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In past months, Washington has kept security guarantees for Ukraine off the table, despite it being a key demand from Kyiv. It was not immediately clear if Mr Zelensky meant US guarantees, or the European coalition of the willing.

Mr Trump is due to meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, however Ukraine has been sidelined from the summit.

Highlighting five principles agreed by European leaders and presented to the US president on a call, Mr Zelensky said that Ukraine must be included in all negotiations, that a ceasefire must be the starting point, and that security guarantees for his country must be provided.

He also stressed that Russia should not have the right to veto Ukraines Nato prospects and that there should be joint pressure on Russia.

05:45 PM BST

Trump to present minerals deal to Putin in Alaska

Donald Trump is preparing to offer Vladimir Putin access to rare earth minerals to incentivise him to end the war in Ukraine.

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The US president will arrive at the much-anticipated meeting with his Russian counterpart on Friday armed with a number of money-making opportunities for Putin.

They will include opening up Alaskas natural resources to Moscow and lifting some of the American sanctions on Russias aviation industry, The Telegraph can reveal.

Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, is understood to be among administration figures briefing Mr Trump ahead of his sit-down with Putin in Anchorage. Mr Bessent is exploring the economic trade-offs the US can make with Russia in order to expedite a ceasefire agreement.

Proposals include giving Putin access to the rare earth minerals in the Ukrainian territories currently occupied by Russia.

The US president will be armed with money-making opportunities to encourage Russia to end Ukrainian war

05:25 PM BST

US could guarantee air cover for Ukraine

UK government sources say the same security guarantees previously offered by the United States for Sir Keir Starmers coalition of the willing are favoured by Donald Trump ahead of his meeting with Vladimir Putin.



The US could provide air cover to Ukraine after the war and continue to allow Europe allies to buy weapons to give to Kyiv, including the much sought-after Patriot air defence systems.

Crucially, any guarantee is only expected to be agreed if Europe agrees to take the lionshare of responsibility, a source added.

05:20 PM BST

Mapped: Putins territorial demands

04:33 PM BST

Trump will fight for trilateral meeting with Putin and Zelensky

Donald Trump said Ukraine must be involved in talks about territory in any ceasefire deal with Russia, Emmanuel Macron said following a call with European leaders and the US president.

Mr Trump said he would fight for a three-way summit with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, the French president added.

Mr Trumps insistence on involving Ukraine, if confirmed, could bring a measure of relief to Ukraine and its allies, who have fear the Russian and US leaders could reach a deal that sells out Europes and Ukraines security interests.

Mr Macron also said that his US counterpart made it very clear he wants to achieve a ceasefire at the upcoming US-Russia summit in Alaska.

04:19 PM BST

Starmer: Coalition of the willing ready to implement ceasefire plans

Sir Keir Starmer said that the coalition of the willing group of countries was ready to implement the military plans it has been working on to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire.

In a call with the coalition along with Volodymyr Zelensky and US vice-president JD Vance, Sir Keir said that the military plans are now ready, in a form that can be used if we get to that ceasefire.

The Prime Minister added that, in an earlier call with Trump, they had made real progress on security guarantees for Ukraine to ensure any peace would be lasting.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer co-chairs a virtual meeting with pro-Ukraine allies from Downing Street, London - Jack Taylor/PA Wire

04:15 PM BST

Details of security guarantees were not discussed, said Merz

Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, said that Ukraine needs robust security guarantees.

The details of these security guarantees  which Volodymyr Zelensky said that Donald Trump supports  were not discussed during the call with the US president, leaving it unclear as to what America or the coalition of the willing might provide.

Mr Zelensky added that the success of any talks depends on the results and the mood and our mood now is that we are united and it was very positive.

He added that all the partners expressed the same vision and this is an important step forward.

03:58 PM BST

Zelensky: I told Trump that Putin is bluffing

Volodymyr Zelensky said he told Donald Trump and European leaders that Vladimir Putin is bluffing.

Putin is bluffing - he is trying to push forward along the whole front, he said at the press conference in Berlin.

Turning his attention to sanctions, he said: Putin is also bluffing saying he doesnt care about the sanctions and that theyre not working.

He urged the international community to impose new sanctions on Moscow if Putin does not agree to an immediate ceasefire at a summit with Mr Trump this week.

Volodymyr Zelensky attends a press conference with German Chancellor Merz - FILIP SINGER/EPA/Shutterstock

03:51 PM BST

Analysis: Europe shows Trump and Putin it is united behind Ukraine

Wednesdays virtual summit in Berlin was an attempt to show President Trump - and Vladimir Putin - that Europe is united behind Ukraine.

European leaders are concerned about the hotly anticipated summit between the US and Russian leaders which will be held in Alaska on Friday.

They fear that Mr Putin will flatter the US leader, and perhaps try to foist upon him some unacceptable conditions that Kyiv would never be willing to accept.

And so a key message of this summit was: Ukraine must have a seat at the table; it cannot just be a passive voice in the background of the negotiations.

This is unlikely to be respected by Putin, who invaded Ukraine in the first place as he essentially believes it is a restive province of Russia - not a nation with its own destiny and goal to pursue.

At a press conference afterwards, Mr Merz spoke of security guarantees and the need to ensure that Russia understands it cannot change borders through violence.

But weve been here before - the same positions taken, only to be dismissed out of hand by Russia, which then has the gall to blame Ukraine for obstructing peace.

03:44 PM BST

Merz: Ukraine must be at the table following Trump-Putin summit

Ukraine must be part of any further talks following the planned meeting in Alaska between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, Friedrich Merz said.

Ukraine must be at the table when follow-up meetings take place, The German chancellor said after an online meeting with Trump and European leaders, adding that a ceasefire must come first before any peace negotiations.

03:34 PM BST

Zelensky and Europe agree five principles for peace

Volodymyr Zelensky said European leaders agreed on five principles that were presented to Donald Trump.

Ukraine must be included in the discussions in a three-sided format There should be a ceasefire There should be security guarantees - Trump said that he supports this and highlighted Americas readiness to take part Russia should not have the right to veto Ukraines Nato prospects There should be joint pressure on Russia and sanctions

03:31 PM BST

European leaders and Zelensky had constructive call with Trump

Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, said European leaders and Volodymyr Zelensky had a good, constructive meeting with Trump about Ukraine.

03:26 PM BST

Merz outlines Ukraine and Europes position on negotiations

Friedrich Merz, speaking at a press conference alongside Volodymyr Zelensky, outlined Europes position towards peace negotiations:

Ukraine has to be at the table if there are any follow up meetings

Negotiations have to be in the right order  a ceasefire has to be at the beginning of it

Ukraine is ready to negotiate on territorial issues, but legal recognition of territory seized by Russia is not on the table

The need for viable long-term security guarantees for Ukraine

03:15 PM BST

Russian units hunted deep within Ukraine

Ukraine said its forces are fending off Russian infantry units that pierced their defensive positions in the eastern Donetsk region.

On Tuesday, Kyivs military acknowledged that a small group of Russian troops bypassed Ukrainian positions near Dobropillia but rejected reports of a breakthrough.

Volodymyr Zelensky said small groups of Russian soldiers, each of 20-30 Russian troops, had advanced about six miles behind the frontlines. One of those groups had been killed or captured, and the others would be hunted down, he said.

Ukraines president also said in his overnight address that Kyiv would reject any Russian proposal to give up the Donbas region in exchange for a ceasefire, warning it could be used by Russia as a springboard for future attacks.

The move would require Mr Zelensky to order troops to withdraw from 9,000 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory, handing Moscow a victory that its army couldnt achieve militarily for more than a decade.

The Ukrainian president, who arrived in Berlin today to join European leaders for a video call with Donald Trump this afternoon, has also pushed for Kyiv to be included in peace talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

He said Moscow wants to create a narrative that Russias advancing and Ukraines losing at the summit, adding that he hoped Mr Trump would act as an honest mediator.

Ukrainian servicewoman Varvara of the 47th Separate Mechanised Brigade fires a mortar during training in the Sumy region - VITALII NOSACH/EPA/Shutterstock

02:42 PM BST

Italy scrambles jets to intercept Russian aircraft near Nato airspace

Two Italian F-35 jets were scrambled from Estonia for the first time to intercept Russian aircraft, Nato air command said.

The Italian Air Task Force, a detachment of the 32nd Wing at Amari Air Base, is on rapid alert 24/7, demonstrating the alliances commitment to safeguarding Nato airspace, the alliance added.

It marked the first deployment of Italian fifth-generation fighters in such a role over the Baltic.

The mission involved the interception of a Sukhoi Su-24 and a Sukhoi Su-27, both jets were flying without flight plans or active transponders  which Nato says is linked to probing and reconnaissance activities.

02:17 PM BST

Pictured: Macron attends virtual call on Ukraine

Emmanuel Macron, the French president, Antonio Costa, president of the European Council, Jean-Noel Barrot, Frances foreign minister, and Sebastien Lecornu, minister for armed ofrces, attend a video conference on Ukraine - PHILIPPE MAGONI/POOL/EPA/Shutterstock

01:52 PM BST

Analysis: What Europe wants from Trump talks

This afternoons conference call between European leaders and Donald Trump has two objectives.

First, they hope to stiffen the US presidents resolve ahead of his Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, a meeting some European officials fear he is dangerously under-prepared for.

Second, they want Mr Trumps backing for a European counterproposal to push back against an offer Putin made to Steve Witkoff, the US envoy, in Moscow last week, which appalled Europe  not to mention Ukraine.

Initial reports suggested Putin would cede occupied territory in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson in exchange for parts of Donetsk still under Ukrainian control. In fact, he appears to have offered a ceasefire if Ukraine agreed to freeze the present front lines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson while unilaterally surrendering all remaining territory in Donetsk.

That was just for starters: Putin gave no sign he would drop his demands for all of Zaporizhzhia or Kherson under a final peace plan  or for the demilitarisation and denazification of a Zelensky-free Ukraine outside Nato.

In other words, Putin hopes to use Alaska to secure territory he has failed to win on the battlefield. The Russian leader cannot be faulted when it comes to chutzpah.

European leaders will urge Mr Trump to reject this and instead back their plan, which calls for an unconditional ceasefire first, and for any territorial exchanges to be reciprocal  with simultaneous withdrawals safeguarded by watertight security guarantees.

01:34 PM BST

Ukraine orders evacuations close to recent Russian leap

The head of Ukraines Donetsk region, where Russian forces have made rapid but limited advances in recent days, has ordered civilians with children to evacuate from towns and villages under threat.

We are beginning the mandatory evacuation of families with children from the town of Bilozerske, governor Vadym Filashkin said today, adding that around a dozen of other settlements fell under the orders well.

He said some 1,150 children remained in the area impacted by the order.

According to a battlefield data and analysts, Russian forces have made their biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in more than a year in an important section of the frontline in Ukraines east.

The Telegraph reported on Tuesday that Russian special forces had punched through exposed Ukrainian defences near Dobropillya in Donetsk and quickly advanced by six miles. The breach could allow Russia to cut off the fortress city of Kramatorsk, one of the most vital strongholds in the Donbas still under Kyivs control.

Bilozerske is just north of Dobropillya.

01:04 PM BST

Berlin uses secret floor for virtual talks with Trump to keep out Russian spies

Friedrich Merzs virtual summit in Berlin to discuss the war in Ukraine ahead of the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska will be chaired from a secretive room of the Chancellery.

Bild newspaper reports that a secret floor in the building has been chosen for the room where Mr Merz, joined in person by Ukrainian president Volodymr Zelensky, will lead a conference call with European leaders.

German officials fear that otherwise the conversation could be intercepted by Russian spies, and so they have chosen a section of the building that has no windows and is known to be bug-proof.

No phones will be allowed in and only Mr Merz and Mr Zelenskys closest advisers will be permitted to sit in on the discussions.

Mr Merz hopes that the call, which will also be joined by President Trump himself, will be an opportunity to influence the talks with Putin on Friday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is welcomed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin - REUTERS

12:50 PM BST

Trump calls European leaders great people ahead of crucial Ukraine talks

Donald Trump has praised European leaders for wanting to see a deal done, ahead of a planned virtual meeting on Wednesday.

In a post on his Truth Social, he said: Will be speaking to European Leaders in a short while. They are great people who want to see a deal done.

Europes leaders are expected to implore the US president not to cede Ukrainian land in pursuit of a ceasefire, a message theyve tried to drive home since the first US-Russia summit in 2021.

It comes two days before Mr Trump is set to meet Vladimir Putin for talks in Alaska on Friday.

Donald Trump praises European leaders in a Truth Social post

12:26 PM BST

Russia claims more gains in Donetsk region

Russian forces have made more advances in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, the Kremlin has said.

The areas of Zatyshok and Zapovidne have been taken, Russias defence ministry claimed.

The Telegraph could not immediately verify the battlefield report.

11:54 AM BST

Zelensky: Russia is preparing fresh offensives beyond Alaska talks

Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia is gearing up for a fresh military offensive, despite upcoming ceasefire talks between Vladimir Putin and President Trump in Alaska on Friday.

The Ukrainian president said Russia is repositioning around 30,000 troops to Ukraines southern region of Zaporizhzhia and the Donetsk region from Ukraines northern Sumy region.

We think they will be ready with those brigades before September, Mr Zelensky said, adding that additional Russian troops may be ready in November.

A Ukrainian soldier fires a D-30 howitzer towards Russian troops, amid Russias attack on Ukraine, in a front line in Donetsk region - REUTERS

11:31 AM BST

Zelensky arrives in Berlin

Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Berlin for talks about achieving peace in Ukraine.

We reported earlier that Ukraines President is in the German capital on a day of talks where European leaders are expected to implore the US president not to cede Ukrainian land in pursuit of a ceasefire (see post at 7:55am).

It comes ahead of US President Donald Trumps planned summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

Zelensky arrives in Berlin for virtual meeting with Trump and European leaders

11:20 AM BST

Russias stance on Ukraine unchanged from 2024 demands, Moscow says

Russias stance on ending the war in Ukraine has not changed, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Alexei Fadeev was referring to June 2024, when Vladimir Putin demanded a full Ukrainian withdrawal from four territories Russia claims to have annexed before a ceasefire could begin.

Ukraines President Zelensky called Putins proposal a Hitler-like ultimatum.

Russia currently occupies around 19 per cent of Ukraine, including Crimea and the parts of the Donbas region it seized prior to the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Russia has said Ukraine would need to withdraw troops from territories Russia claims to have annexed before it agrees to a ceasefire - AFP

10:49 AM BST

Moscow vows to respond to Estonias expulsion of Russian diplomat

Alexei Fadeev, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said on Wednesday that Estonias expulsion of a Russian diplomat was a hostile act that would prompt a response from Moscow.

Estonia has expelled a Russian diplomat over sanction violations and other crimes against the state, the Baltic countrys foreign ministry said in a statement.

10:06 AM BST

Ukraine says it hit oil pumping station in Russias Bryansk

Ukraines military said on Wednesday its drones hit Russias Unecha oil pumping station in Russias Bryansk region overnight.

Damage and a large-scale fire were recorded in the area of the booster pumping station building, the Ukrainian General Staff said on Telegram.

Credit: Telegram/supernova_plus

09:48 AM BST

Merz and Zelensky set to give talks in Berlin on Wednesday

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Ukrainian counterpart are scheduled to deliver a press talk at around 2pm GMT in Berlin on Wednesday.

Volodymyr Zelensky is in the German capital on a day of talks between Western leaders ahead of US President Donald Trumps planned summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday (see post at 7:55am).

09:34 AM BST

Putin praises North Korean troops fighting in Ukraine

President Vladimir Putin has praised the bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit of North Korean troops fighting against Ukraine, during a phone call with Kim Jong Un.

According to state media from both countries, the two authoritarian leaders spoke about their deepening ties and war efforts against Ukraine in a call on Wednesday morning.

Putin reportedly also told Kim about his plans for upcoming talks with Donald Trump, which are scheduled to take place in Alaska on Friday.

Since Russia first invaded its neighbour, the two countries have grown ever closer, with Pyongyang sending weapons and people to help the war effort. According to South Korean assessments, at least 15,000 North Korean troops have now been sent to Russia, while the British Ministry of Defence estimates that roughly 6,000 soldiers from the pariah state have been killed or wounded while fighting in Kursk.

On Wednesday, North Korean state media said that Kim had told Putin during the call that he would fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too. They also discussed advancing ties in all fields, as part of a strategic partnership agreement signed last year.

A BBC investigation yesterday reported that 10,000 North Korean labourers have already been sent to Russia, which is facing a labour shortage linked to the war, and intends to eventually dispatch 50,000 workers. But once there, the labourers are facing slave-like conditions.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (centre) sent around 15,000 soldiers to Russia last year - KCNA

09:13 AM BST

Russia suspected in hack of US federal court filing system

US investigators have uncovered evidence that Russia was at least partly behind a hack of a computer system that manages US federal court files, according to reports.

The court documents contained highly sensitive records, including information that could reveal sources and people charged with national security crimes, the New York Times reported, citing several people familiar with the breach.

It isnt clear whether Russian intelligence was operating alone, or if other countries were involved.

Some of the people familiar with the matter described it as a long-lasting plot to infiltrate the system.

The revelation comes ahead of highly anticipated talks between Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart in Alaska on Friday, where the US President is expected to discuss his push to end the war in Ukraine.

08:48 AM BST

Whats happening in Alaska on Friday?

Donald Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin one-on-one in Alaska, the White House has confirmed.

The two leaders will not be flanked by their advisers when they come face-to-face for a highly-anticipated meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson on Friday  a military base in Anchorage  to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.

Tempering expectations of the leaders making a breakthrough, Karoline Leavitt, Mr Trumps secretary, insisted the summit was a listening exercise for the US president.

...the goal of this meeting for the president is to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war, Ms Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday.

It is a listening exercise for the president. Look, only one party thats involved in this war is going to be present, and so this is for the president to go and to get, again, a more firm and better understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end, she added.

Volodymyr Zelenskys exclusion from the talks has fuelled fears that Mr Trump and Putin will agree to terms to ending the war which are unfavourable for Ukraine.

Reporting by Connor Stringer

Read the full article here

Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump will meet face-to-face in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday - Evan Vucci/AP/Evan Vucci/AP

08:21 AM BST

Mapped: Putin makes battlefield breakthrough in urgent push for land

Russia is racing to seize as much Ukrainian territory as possible ahead of peace talks with Donald Trump on Friday.

In what may prove to be a major breakthrough for Vladimir Putin, Russian sabotage and reconnaissance units punched through exposed defences in eastern Ukraine, slipping as far as six miles behind the front line in just 48 hours, according to battlefield reports.

The location, near Dobropillya in Donetsk, is strategically significant. If Moscows forces are able to establish a foothold, the breach could allow Russia to cut off the city of Kramatorsk, one of the most vital strongholds in the Donbas still under Kyivs control.

If the city falls, it would give Putin almost full control over the Donbas and strengthen his negotiating power when bargaining over Ukraines fate with the Trump administration.

Reporting by Kieran Kelly and Fermin Torrano

Read the full article here

07:55 AM BST

Zelensky will be in Berlin on Wednesday, spokesman says

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky will be in Berlin on Wednesday to join European leaders for a video call with Donald Trump, his spokesman has said.

The president is working in Berlin today, the spokesman said, adding that a meeting with German chancellor Friedrich Merz is also planned.

We reported earlier that chancellor Mr Merz will convene a call where European leaders are expected to implore the US president not to cede Ukrainian land in pursuit of a ceasefire (see post at 7:47 am).

It comes ahead of Trumps planned summit with Russian president Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska.

The German Chancellors talks will also involve the leaders of Finland, France, Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union, as well as Nato.

07:49 AM BST

Pictured: Scenes of devastation as Russia advances in Donetsk

A woman walks past a heavily damaged residential building following a Russian strike in the town of Bilozerske, Donetsk

07:47 AM BST

Zelensky and European leaders to speak to Trump ahead of Putin summit

Europe and Ukraines leaders will speak to US President Donald Trump at a virtual meeting on Wednesday ahead of his summit with Russias Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany will convene a Ukraine-themed video call on Wednesday, where European leaders are expected to implore Mr Trump not to cede Ukrainian land in pursuit of a ceasefire.

The call is set to include Mr Trump, Vice President JD Vance,Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and several of Mr Trumps favourite European leaders, like Prime Minister Giorgi Meloni of Italy.

The US president says both Kyiv and Moscow will have to cede land to end the war. Russian troops have already occupied almost a fifth of Ukraine.

07:41 AM BST

Whats happening in the Donetsk?

Russia appears to be making an 11th-hour dash to snatch as much territory as possible ahead of the planned meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Friday.

Russian forces are making a push towards Dobropillia, the Ukrainian battlefield monitoring group DeepState reported Tuesday.

The town is around 20 kilometres north of the key strategic city of Pokrovsk, which has been in the Kremlins crosshairs for more than a year.

Groups of Russians have advanced about 10 kilometres in several places. All of them have no equipment, only weapons in their hands. Some have already been found, partially destroyed, partially captured, Volodymyr Zelensky said in a briefing Tuesday.

07:38 AM BST

Hello and welcome to our live coverage

Were bringing you the latest updates from the Ukraine war

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President Donald Trump threatened "very severe consequences" for Russia if President Vladimir Putin doesnt agree to end the war in Ukraine after their meeting in Alaska on Friday.

Trump issued the warning Wednesday as he is preparing for a sit-down with Putin in Anchorage.

"Yes, they will. There will be consequences," Trump said in response to a reporters question on the topic. The president then refused to elaborate on what the punishment would be.

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"I dont have to say. There will be very severe consequences," he added.

Trump And Putins Relationship Turns Sour As President Pushes For Resolution With Ukraine

Trump later appeared to cast doubt on whether he could convince Putin to stop bombing Ukrainian civilians.

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"I'll tell you what. I've had that conversation with him. I've had a lot of good conversations with him then I go home and I see that a rocket hit a nursing home or a rocket hit an apartment building, and people are laying dead in the streets," Trump said.

Zelenskyy, Ahead Of Trump-putin Meeting, Says There Is No Sign Russia Wants To End The War

President Donald Trump meets Russian President Vladimir Putin on the first day of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan on June 28, 2019.

"So, I guess the answer to that is no, because I've had this conversation. I want to end the war. It's Biden's war, but I want to end it. I'll be very proud to end this war, along with the five other wars I ended. But, I guess the answer to that is probably no," Trump continued.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also said Wednesday that there is "no sign" that Russia is preparing to end the war in Ukraine.

"At present, there is no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war. Our coordinated efforts and joint actions  of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and all countries that seek peace  can definitely compel Russia to make peace," Zelenskyy said on X.





Original article source: Trump threatens 'very severe' consequences if Russia doesn't agree to end Ukraine war
Vice President JD Vance revealed he had experienced a bit of a controversy with his predecessor before President Donald Trumps inauguration.

While speaking on The Katie Miller Podcast, Vance said that his family was rebuffed by former Vice President Kamala Harris over a courtesy visit. He called it typically customary for an outgoing vice president to show the incoming one the offices official residence, which is located on the grounds of the United States Naval Observatory. The white nineteenth century home, found on a 73-acre plot, has housed every vice president since Walter Mondale in the 1970s.

Vance said he had proposed to bring his three children to see their new home, who were all under the age of eight at the time, but his request was rejected.

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They had never seen this house, and Usha [Vance] really wanted show them, so what we actually proposed is, recognizing the weirdness of the politics, can Usha take the kids over and just show them where theyre going to be living for the next four years? Vance said in an episode released Monday.

Saying they were rebuffed, Vance noted that he instead showed his kids old diagrams and photographs, and noted that one of his friends in Ohio owned a book about the vice presidents residence.

Thats as close as they ever got to it, but its a really beautiful house, Vance said.

.@VP says after the election, since it's usually "customary for the outgoing VP to show the incoming VP's family the house," he proposed bringing their kids over so they could see their home for the next four years  but Kamala "rebuffed" that request. pic.twitter.com/YC58At8Iqf  Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 11, 2025

In recent years, some vice presidents have hosted their successor and their families before they take office  but there is no formal tradition or requirement.

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Former Vice President Dick Cheney and his wife had welcomed then Vice President-elect Joe Biden in 2009. The Bidens also introduced incoming Vice President Mike Pence to the residence in 2016.

However, there was no official meeting between Pence and Harris, though they did speak on the phone. CBS News previously reported that people close to Harris said she was never given the opportunity to visit the home before she was sworn in. She took office during the COVID pandemic and amid the Capitol riot in January 2021.

As Vances comments went viral on social media, supporters and critics of Harris pounced.

"Thats petty if true," one user said on X.

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Another user wrote: Just wait until he moves into the White House in 2029!

All this guy does is b---- and moan. Thats all any of them do. Weve ceded the entire country and any progress to grievances from prissy whiners, a journalist added.

A different user described the decision as very telling.

Thank goodness we literally dodged that bullet, they continued.

Vance added that Harris had left a nice note in his West Wing office, calling it boilerplate but polite.

It actually feels like a real home now, he said.

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US President Donald Trump wants to keep the police in Washington under federal control beyond mid-September, he said on Wednesday.

Trump told journalists he would ask Congress for a long-term extension of the measure, noting that the current limit of 30 days is not enough.

Citing allegedly rampant crime, Trump had ordered by decree on Monday that the police in the District of Columbia be placed under the command of Attorney General Pam Bondi for the time being.

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In addition, 800 National Guard soldiers were initially to be deployed to the capital.

He based his unusual decree on a law called the "Home Rule Act," which places the police in Washington under federal command in a state of emergency.

If necessary, Trump says he wants to mobilize even more forces to "restore" public safety in the capital.

Police statistics and information from the public prosecutor's office in the capital district do not provide any evidence of an increase in crime.

Officials pointed out that violent crime in the District of Columbia reached historic 30-year lows last year.

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The US president may initially place the local police in Washington under federal control for up to 48 hours before he has to inform Congress.

Without the approval of both chambers of Congress - the Senate and the House of Representatives - it can remain in place for a maximum of 30 days. After that, a vote is required.

However, Congress is currently in its summer recess, which is why a special regulation is likely to apply, giving Trump a little more time.
MEXICO CITY  For months, Mexican business officials have gathered in a sleek conference room of the American Chamber of Commerce here to learn about a U.S. threat to their firms that isnt a tariff.

The topic? President Donald Trumps labeling of several Mexican and other cartels and gangs as terrorist groups. That action is part of a broader Trump pressure campaign on Mexico to eliminate the threat of drug cartels to the U.S., which could soon include U.S. military strikes.

Trumps move means a company in Mexico that engages in a financial transaction with a cartel could face new U.S. sanctions or criminal charges of providing material support for terrorism. Given the vast reach of the cartels, which have expanded beyond drugs to become more like multinational conglomerates, odds are high that firms here occasionally brush against such networks, even unwittingly. So business leaders are crowding Chamber sessions, grabbing coffee and pastries, and poring over detailed protocols about how to protect themselves from institutions such as the U.S. Treasury Department.

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Theyre worried, Pedro Casas Alatriste, a top Chamber official, told me. Lets say they have one of their workers get kidnapped, and they have to negotiate in a way that touches organized crime  then theyre susceptible.

Trump has succeeded at scaring Mexicos business class over the cartel issue and rattling Mexicos broader political class with menacing promises of military action. But will he achieve his grander ambition of quashing the cartels? Almost certainly not. In fact, Trump could make an already bad situation worse.

Trumps approach to the cartels is not a comprehensive strategy. It is an incoherent set of tactics at best. At worst, the approach undermines itself.

The most glaring example of this is how, even as Trump turns to hard power tactics to weaken the cartels, he is simultaneously cutting funds for U.S. drug treatment programs. So while cartels may face some blows from Washington, the demand for their product could grow, giving them financial reasons to keep up supply.

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On top of that, tariffs, deportations and growing tensions with Mexicos government, especially over U.S. military action, are creating openings for the cartels to expand their reach.

Trump deserves credit for forcing more attention on the cartels, their transnational reach and Americans sad addiction to fentanyl and other drugs, as well as how U.S. adversaries such as China are involved. The danger is real.

And many of the people I spoke to  among them current and former U.S. and Mexican policy and security officials  said Trumps decision to designate cartels as terrorist organizations, while not crucial to the fight, provides U.S. law enforcement and the military more legal tools to go after cartels and others affiliated with them.

But virtually everyone also said this and other Trump pressure tactics wont end or substantially reduce the cartel threat. A much more comprehensive, coherent approach is needed.

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The Trump method is aggressive, but not innovative, said Mirlis Reyes, a Washington-based analyst whose expertise includes illicit economies and transnational organized crime. We know the outcome: Drug availability persists, markets adapt and overdose rates remain high.

I sent repeated, detailed questions to the White House and other U.S. agencies asking about Trumps approach. All I received in response were broad statements praising Trumps terrorist designations and migration crackdown. Designating these malign groups helps law enforcement bring justice to victims and charge individuals who help terrorists, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told me.

On Friday, news broke that Trump had ordered the U.S. military to prepare for potential strikes against the cartels.

The reaction among Mexico watchers was a collective facepalm.

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It's ineffective, undiplomatic and politically unwise, said Carlos Perez Ricart, an academic close to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaums circles. A person familiar with the conversations told me that business leaders were pressing the U.S. ambassador here, Ronald Johnson, for clarification on Trumps plan but couldnt get clear answers. Sheinbaum, meanwhile, declared Mexicos strong opposition to such U.S. action.

A unilateral U.S. strike could undermine Sheinbaum politically, making it less likely her government will further cooperate with the U.S. on a cartel crackdown. Sheinbaum already has deployed security forces to fight the famed Sinaloa Cartel, handed over dozens of alleged cartel figures to the U.S. and sent more troops to the U.S. border. Shes simultaneously trying to negotiate with Trump on tariffs, migration and other issues.

Trump isnt the first president to overemphasize one element of the drug fight, such as Jimmy Carters focus on treatment for addicts, or to pay too little attention to parts of it, such as George W. Bushs passive acceptance of the end of the federal assault weapons ban. Presidents who oversaw more multifaceted plans, such as the Merida Initiative, still faced political pressures to limit their scope. Merida lasted more than a decade, including Trumps first term.

What makes Trump unusual are steps he is taking that could actually strengthen the cartels hes trying to destroy.

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Consider tariffs. Trump has cited the cartel trafficking of fentanyl and other drugs as one of his reasons for imposing tariffs on Mexico, a major U.S. trading partner. In all likelihood, however, tariffs will damage the official Mexican economy. That means a potential growth in unemployment here and a strengthening of the illicit economy, all of which could lead to more recruits and financial openings for cartels, who know the black market well.

Deportations are a related issue. The Trump administration alleges that many of the migrants it kicks out are cartel and gang members, and that its easier to deport them than prosecute them.

Whats likely, though, is that the U.S. will create a pool of new recruits for cartels overseas or prompt the rise of new such networks. There is history here: At least one of the gangs now labeled as terrorists, MS-13, morphed into a transnational threat because people America deported established overseas offshoots. The State Department acknowledged this in its February announcement of the terror designations.

Trump has accused Mexican politicians of being corrupt and petrified of the cartels. Its hard to find anyone serious here who denies these accusations completely. But, setting aside Trumps own alleged corruption, his administration also is actively demolishing tools used to fight such malfeasance globally. That includes dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development and weakening enforcement of anti-corruption laws aimed at companies abroad.

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While cartels exercise significant control over many parts of Mexico, there are few open displays of their power in the heavily policed megapolis of Mexico City. Still, there are billboards warning that fentanyl kills, and the occasional restaurant with a narco-gangster theme. Some neighborhoods are plastered with photos of Mexicans who have disappeared, possibly due to decades-long cartel violence.

Many here who follow the U.S.-Mexico security relationship dismiss Trumps moves against the cartels as performative and aimed at U.S. voters.

It doesn't matter if it's going to work. It matters if it seems, for his audience, that its going to work, a former Mexican security official opined over a cappuccino. He then thought for a moment and added: Perhaps he thinks it's going to work. That's even more problematic.

I granted him and several others I spoke to anonymity because the topic was sensitive and physically risky.

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Unlike traditional terrorist groups, the cartels are not ideological. Their goal is to make money, and they long ago diversified their portfolios beyond drugs into everything from human trafficking to fuel theft. They also have expanded deep into legal markets.

Many Mexican firms, such as those attending the Chamber sessions, are now ramping up spending on lawyers, security consultants and people who specialize in vetting supply chains and clients  all so they can at least say they tried to steer clear of the cartels.

The Trump crackdown recognizes cartels financial motive. He has sanctioned several actors, from Mexican banks to a Mexican rapper on allegations of laundering cartel money. Yet on this front, too, Trump sends mixed signals. He has weakened some rules around cryptocurrency, a method of finance cartels are believed to be using more.

Then, of course, theres the gun factor. The U.S. governments own studies have found that a huge portion of the firearms used in cartel-related violence in Mexico originate from the United States. Trump and his aides are nonetheless trying to weaken gun laws. (Mexico has suggested U.S. gun manufacturers should face charges of aiding terrorists.)

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None of this is to say that the cartels arent feeling pressure.

The U.S. and Mexican clampdowns  whether increased border patrols, drone surveillance or Mexican troops battling it out in Sinaloa  have led to many arrests. They may have exacerbated cartel infighting, much of which is linked to some remarkable U.S. detentions of cartel leaders that predate Trump. Reports abound of the cartels being short on money.

There are worries inside the Mexican government about whether cartel figures in U.S. custody will point fingers at Mexican politicians, Mexican analysts and former officials said.

Some also expressed frustration that the U.S. crackdown appears so focused on Mexican entities as opposed to Americans who help the cartels. That provides an incentive for cartels to strengthen collaborations with U.S.-based criminal networks.

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Former U.S. law enforcement officials told me thats likely to change; theres already at least one court case involving a terror-designated cartel that has ensnared some Americans. (The terrorism labels, in theory, can mean that a drug user who buys product traced to the cartels could face terror-related charges, but its unlikely prosecutors will go after such low-level offenders.)

The cartels are good at adapting  they already are doing so, from what analysts told me.

They are changing the way they ship their products to reduce detection. They can expand their presence in markets well beyond the United States. They can switch to harder to detect drugs lesser-known than fentanyl, deaths from which appear to be going down in the U.S. They can expand their work in other criminal enterprises, such as fuel theft.

The former Mexican security official, who retains contacts inside the government here, said many cartel figures dont fear capture and extradition to the U.S. It might be extra attractive if they can get into the U.S. federal witness protection program, even if it means ratting out former colleagues. Its all viewed as an acceptable price to pay for an otherwise financially lucrative life.

As the former official explained to me, It's a very toxic dynamic.


President Donald Trump said his administration is weighing whether to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug. This move could mark the most significant federal shift in cannabis policy in half a century.

"We're looking at reclassification and we'll make a determination over the next few weeks," Trump said at an Aug. 11 news conference.

The federal government lists marijuana alongside heroin and LSD as a Schedule I drug  the category reserved for substances deemed highly dangerous, addictive and without medical value. Reclassifying it to Schedule III, as recommended by federal health officials in 2023, would put marijuana in the same legal tier as Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids, allowing it to be prescribed by licensed medical providers and dispensed by pharmacies.

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It would not, however, legalize recreational use under federal law.

What a federal shift could mean for Oklahoma

Oklahoma legalized medical marijuana in 2018 and more than 2,000 dispensaries now operate statewide. But under current law, adults can only purchase cannabis with a medical patient license.

That could change if voters approve State Question 837, which would legalize recreational sales for adults 21 and older. The measure cleared a major procedural hurdle in July and organizers have already started gathering signatures. Organizers have until Nov. 4 to collect at least 172,993 valid signatures to get on the ballot in 2026.

If Trump reclassifies marijuana to Schedule III, Oklahoma's medical marijuana market  already among the largest per capita in the nation  could see smoother banking operations, lower compliance risks for dispensaries and broader medical research opportunities. But the move would do nothing to authorize recreational sales in the state; that decision would still rest entirely with Oklahoma voters.

The push for SQ 837

Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA), the group behind SQ 837, is betting that public sentiment has shifted since voters rejected a similar measure, State Question 820, in 2023 by a 61% margin.

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This time, ORCA is pursuing a constitutional amendment, making it harder for lawmakers to alter or repeal the law without another statewide vote. The proposal would tax recreational sales at 10% while preserving the medical system and exempting licensed patients from the new tax.

The campaign faces new hurdles, including a 2025 state law limiting how many petition signatures can come from a single county. That means ORCA can't rely solely on the city center like Tulsa or Oklahoma City for signatures and will have to fan out into rural areas  such as Harmon County, where just 117 residents will be allowed to sign.

"Maybe we'll go and hang out at the co-op for a day or go to the county courthouse," ORCA Director Jed Green said. "Voters of Harmon County  get ready, we'll come out and visit."

Open primary supporters have challenged Senate Bill 1027 in the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which has not yet issued a ruling.

The bigger picture

Trump's comments come after years of fits and starts on federal marijuana policy. President Joe Biden initiated the reclassification review in 2022, and federal health officials recommended the downgrade in 2023. The Drug Enforcement Administration proposed a rule change in 2024, but the process stalled after Trump returned to the White House in January.

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Terrance Cole, Trump's newly confirmed DEA administrator, has said reviewing marijuana's classification will be one of his first priorities, though he has not signaled whether he supports the change.

Trump said the decision is complicated, weighing the benefits of marijuana use for medical reasons against potential societal impacts.

"Some people like it, some people hate it," he said. "Some people hate the whole concept of marijuana."

If the administration follows through, Oklahoma's cannabis industry could get a boost in legitimacy and access to services  but recreational marijuana will still live or die by the state's ballot box.

This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Trump considers marijuana shift; Oklahoma advances recreational use
Federal authorities arrested 66 people in Washington, D.C. over the first two nights of President Donald Trumps takeover of the citys police force, a White House official tells TIME, adding that the nation's capital can expect to see even more National Guard members across the city Wednesday evening.

Forty-three of those arrests occurred overnight on Tuesday, nearly double the amount of the previous night, as more federal agents and National Guard troops arrived in the city to patrol streets as part of Trumps effort to crack down on crime, which has been falling in the city over the last two years.

The aggressive federal intervention came after Trump on Monday invoked a rarely used provision of the 1973 Home Rule Act, allowing the president to place the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control for up to 30 days during a declared public safety emergency. Trump has said he will ask Congress to extend his authority beyond the 30-day limit.

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More than 1,450 law enforcement officers and agents were involved in Tuesday nights operation, about half of them from the citys police department.

The National Guards role has so far been limited. Only about 30 troops were on D.C. streets Tuesday night, though officials say as many as 800 could eventually be mobilized to protect federal sites and assist in other non-arrest functions.

On Tuesday evening, a small group of Guard members in military vehicles appeared near the Washington Monument, where they were seen taking photos with visitors before departing two hours later. The White House official tells TIME that plans are underway for "a significantly higher National Guard presence throughout the city on Wednesday night.

The President has described daily life in Washington, D.C. in apocalyptic terms and framed the intervention as a necessary response to what he called an out-of-control crisis due to thugs and gang members. But city statistics show a different picture: overall crime has declined sharply since 2023, with homicides, robberies, and carjackings all falling.

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The White House official said that federal authorities have so far arrested 103 people in D.C. since the Administration started rolling out an increased law enforcement presence last Thursday, with 19 mixed-agency teams fanning out across neighborhoods to promote public safety and arrest violent offenders, the White House said. The operation has included agents from the F.B.I., the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security, working alongside local police.

In other parts of the city, federal agents were spotted conducting traffic stops and making arrests. Charges over the first two nights have included assault with a deadly weapon, homicide, drug possession with intent to distribute, unlawful entry, resisting arrest, lewd acts, stalking, reckless driving, and driving under the influence, the official said. Thirteen illegal firearms have been seized since Monday night.

The White House has signaled that the crackdown will also focus on dismantling homeless encampments, with officials offering those affected access to services like substance abuse counseling but threatening fines or arrest for those who refuse to relocate. Jeanine Pirro, the newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the District, has called for tougher sentencing laws, particularly for juveniles she accuses of driving much of the citys violent crime. Young criminals have been emboldened to think they can get away with committing crime in this city, she wrote in a Washington Post opinion piece on Tuesday night.

Trumps use of federal force in the nations capital has drawn parallels to his 2020 deployment of the National Guard during racial justice protests, when officers forcibly cleared demonstrators from Lafayette Square and military helicopters performed low-altitude maneuvers over city streets.

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Since Washington, D.C. is not a state, the President is able to deploy the National Guard and assume control of its police during declared emergencies. The lack of statehood also means the 700,000 residents of the city have no voting representation in Congress.

Asked on Wednesday about the long-standing push for D.C. statehood, Trump called the proposal "unacceptable" and ridiculous.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
On the first day of President Donald Trumps crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., federal and local authorities arrested 23 people, including suspects wanted for murder, gun offenses and other crimes.

FBI Director Kash Patel, who endorsed Trumps plans to take over the Metropolitan Police Department and tackle crime in the nation's capital, provided an update on the efforts in a post on X Tuesday evening.

"On the first big push of FBI supporting @Potus @realDonaldTrump initiative to make DC safe again, FBI reported 10 arrests with partners," the director wrote.

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He said the 10 arrests included one for a search warrant on a prior murder charge.

I Support Trump Taking Control Of Dc Police  The Constitution Is On His Side

The other arrests involved unlawful possession of firearms, outstanding warrants for driving under the influence, and one arrest for violating a restraining order.

Read On The Fox News App

"These are just a few examples  we are just getting started. Federal partners joined local police and arrested 23 in total," Patel wrote. "When you let good cops be cops they can clean up our streets and do it fast. More to come. Your nations Capital WILL be safe again."

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On Monday, Trump said he would federalize the police department and place it under the authority of U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in an effort to address crime. He also said he was activating approximately 800 National Guard troops to "reestablish law, order and public safety" in the capital.

Fbi Director Kash Patel Backs Trump's Dc Police Takeover: 'When You Let Good Cops Be Cops, They Deliver'

Democrats and local officials criticized the Trump administration for taking over law enforcement efforts in DC, saying the move is part of a power grab.

Washington D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser called the move "unsettling and unprecedented."

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The District of Columbia Home Rule Act allows Trump to place the city's police department under federal control for up to 30 days. Bowser noted that granting D.C. statehood, an issue local officials have repeatedly advocated for, could have prevented the takeover.

"If people are concerned about the president being able to move the National Guard into our city, the time to do that would have been when the Congress had a bill that it could have given control of the D.C. National Guard to D.C.," she said. "So, there are things that, when a city is not a state, and not fully autonomous, and doesnt have senators, that the federal government can do."

Trump's Plan To Deploy National Guard In Dc Sparks Backlash From Residentsbut Some Welcome It

Jeanine Pirro told reporters on Aug. 12, 2025, that the community in Washington, D.C. is suffering because of violent crime, adding that anyone who wants to tell her crime is down needs to speak with the family members of the individuals who were shot and killed under the age of 20.

Still, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon that she wanted to get a sense of what was happening in D.C. and asked for the number of teens who have been shot and killed by gunfire.

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She shared a poster with several victims who were shot in 2024, all under the age of 20, noting that 29 individuals were shot and killed in the district, some as young as 3-years-old. Pirro also showed a poster of those under the age of 20 who were shot and killed in 2025, which totaled 16 victims.

"What this makes clear to me is that there is a whole community that is suffering because of the violent crime in this district, and anyone who wants to tell me that crime is down and that we dont need an emergency focus on crimes of violence, all they need to do is take a look at this and talk to the loved ones and the family members of these individuals who were shot and killed under the age of 20," Pirro said.

"I don't know how many of these cases have been solved, but what I can tell you is, again, it's guns on the streets. It's individuals who are not concerned about accountability, who don't have any reason to fear law enforcement," she continued. "I am here today to tell you that on behalf of all of these victims, all of these families, that they're going to be accountable, that we are going to make a difference, and that we are going to make sure that law enforcement is focused on these innocent, now silent victims of crime in the district."

Fox News Digitals Louis Casiano contributed to this report.





Original article source: Trump's DC public safety sweep results in 23 arrests including murder suspect on opening day
If theres one constant in the military, its that every older generation will insist they had it worse than the new one. Enter: the stress card, a card that recruits could hold up during training to take a pause. Its a thing everyone has heard about, but hardly anybody seems to have personally witnessed. The reason being: Theyre a bit of a myth.

Stress cards, which are once again back in the news cycle, crop up every several years as a way to decry the slipping of standards, how things arent the same now that troops dont qualify with their rifles using iron sights, or how drill instructors cant just gut-punch recruits, a la Full Metal Jacket.

Starting in the 1990s and lasting through the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, rumors have swirled within the ranks that there was a time when recruits could get out of being disciplined or forced to exercise by simply showing their instructors a stress card, which signified that they were overburdened by the rigors of military training.

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Even though these stress cards have been repeatedly debunked as folklore, they remain a persistent myth among troops and veterans. The legend appears to be based on cards previously issued by the Army and Navy that have been misinterpreted as the stress cards that an entire generation of troops and veterans who went to war after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks continue to believe in.

Case in point: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently brought up the issue while speaking with Fox News Host Laura Ingraham about his plans to make basic training tougher.

The tactics drill sergeants used in the 70s, 80s, and 90s  they forged generations of young Americans that went and fought wars courageously, Hegseth told Ingraham on Monday. Now were handing out  in the past, were handing out stress cards: Are you too stressed? Do you need some counseling for that?

The reality is more nuanced. During a brief experiment in the 1990s, Navy recruits were issued Blues Cards that contained information about where they could get help if they were thinking about quitting. These are sometimes conflated with Stress Control Cards issued to Army trainees many years ago that allowed them to indicate their levels of anxiety.

Blues Cards

Neither card was intended to allow recruits to be excused from physical training or being yelled at. However, a 1997 report from a committee that examined issues with having male and female recruits train together found that some Navy recruits were using Blues Cards  which it referred to as stress cards  to show they wanted a break.

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The Navy issues a card to every new recruit that includes information about whom to contact if things pile up, the report found. The committees [sic] recognizes the importance of informing new recruits about support services upon their arrival at basic training. But concerns were raised by Navy trainers about Navy recruits who raise their cards while being disciplined as a way of signaling a time-out.

A Navy recruit division commander yells at a recruit during boot camp. Navy photo by Austin Rooney.

A Navy recruit division commander yells at a recruit during boot camp. Navy photo by Austin Rooney.

From the report, it is unclear if Navy boot camp instructors actually granted recruits who showed the cards a temporary reprieve, but the committee recommended that the Navy stop the use of these cards by recruits as a means of ending a disciplining or training session.

During a March 1998 Pennews conference, then-Defense Secretary William Cohen told reporters that the Navys policy on Blue Cards was over.

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The notion that a drill sergeant cannot grab a rifle out of the hand of a recruit without asking permission is no longer going to be tolerated, Cohen said. Those things have to change, and they will change.

Stress Control Cards

Even dating back to 2007, the Army attempted to debunk stress cards in a press release, writing, There are many stigmas in todays military. Weve all heard them. Weve all heard the jokes about stress cards rumored to be handed out during basic training.

Former drill sergeants who spoke with Task & Purpose echoed that message, while also emphasizing that military service is, to the surprise of no one, inherently stressful.

Basic training is putting a newly recruited civilian into a stressful environment, giving them the correct tools, drill sergeants and attitude to fight and win our nations wars, said retired Army 1st Sgt. David Siedschlag, who served as a senior drill sergeant at Fort Jackson, South Carolina in 2022. Stress is our natural way of saying what we are doing is dangerous. Of course, war is dangerous. So the stress card is a myth and needs to stay a myth.

Top Stories This Week

News Airman arrested for death that prompted Air Force-wide safety review of Sig M18 By Jeff Schogol News Soldiers who stopped Fort Stewart gunman recognized as the best among us in the Army By Patty Nieberg Culture Laura Loomer unites vets from both sides of aisle after Medal of Honor rant By Matt White

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But rumors are notoriously hard to kill, and so the myth about stress cards persisted into the Global War on Terrorism era, perpetuated in part by Stress Control Cards that the Army once issued.

Trainees were not given stress cards to show their drill sergeants that they were too stressed to respond to commands, according to the Army. A handout created by an Army health and fitness program had sensors that soldiers could press their fingers against to measure their stress levels. These were similar to charts that remind soldiers to stay hydrated.

A former drill sergeant who is currently serving in the Army told Task & Purpose he has never seen trainees with stress control cards, and he doesnt know how widely they were used, but he saw a senior noncommissioned officer carrying one in 2010 and then saw another displayed in a clinic in 2013.

I believe it was a behavioral health item for regular people to self-assess their stress level and then employ distress tolerance tools, said the soldier, who spoke to Task & Purpose on condition of anonymity because he is on active duty. It was basically a mood ring that would change colors depending on how warm (calm) or cold (stressed) you were.

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The lack of information about these stress control cards  including exactly who issued them and when  can fuel the myth that they were stress cards, the former drill sergeant said.

Other former drill sergeants told Task & Purpose that they had not seen stress control cards.

Because the legend of stress cards endured into the Global War on Terrorism, it is likely to remain a cautionary  if apocryphal  tale about the danger of going so soft on recruits that they become namby-pamby troops.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday launched the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign from his official residence in Lucknow, calling for every home to proudly hoist the tricolor as a symbol of national pride and respect for soldiers. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal, the August 13-15 campaign, along with Tiranga Yatras across villages, towns, and districts, aims to spread reverence for the Constitution, national symbols, freedom fighters, and great leaders during Amrit Kaal, the UP CM remarked, according to an official statement. The Chief Minister, leading the tiranga yatra, also took selfies with young people. The tricolor in hand and chants of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram', CM Yogi marched alongside his cabinet colleagues and public representatives, leading the Tiranga Yatra through the streets of Lucknow. Before flagging off the march from his residence, he interacted with and took selfies with schoolchildren, NCC cadets, scout guides, and enthusiastic youth. "From villages to towns and districts, Tiranga Yatras are setting an inspiring example. In Uttar Pradesh too, people are enthusiastically participating in Har Ghar Tiranga and Selfie with Tiranga campaigns," he stated. The tricolor, he added, stands as a symbol of the nation's pride and respect for its soldiers, and should adorn every Indian household. The Chief Minister led the Tiranga Yatra amidst the tunes of patriotic songs and flagged off the march from his residence. Highlighting India's global standing, the Chief Minister said, "The world has witnessed India's courage, strength, and might during Operation Sindoor. This recognition also places a responsibility on every Indian to uphold the nation's honour." He appealed to 140 crore citizens to rise above personal interests, dedicate themselves to the nation, hoist the tricolor in every home, and actively participate in the grand celebration of independence. CM Yogi also cautioned against forces attempting to fracture social unity through divisions based on society, region, language, or caste, and urged that such elements must be exposed. Referring to the ambitious goal of 'Viksit Bharat - Atmanirbhar Bharat' by 2047 set by the Prime Minister, CM Yogi reaffirmed his commitment to making 'Viksit Uttar Pradesh - Atmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh' a guiding mantra for life. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, State Ministers Swatantra Dev Singh and Kapildev Agarwal, MLAs Neeraj Bora, Jaya Devi, OP Srivastava, MLCs Mahendra Singh, Mukesh Sharma, Umesh Dwivedi, BJP Mahanagar President Anand Dwivedi, and senior BJP leader Neeraj Singh, among others. (ANI)
Tulip Siddiq says her corruption trial in Bangladesh is a farce driven by a political vendetta.

The former City minister, who is being tried in her absence, accused the authorities in Dhaka of peddling false and vexatious allegations and said the case was built on fabricated accusations



Ms Siddiq and her mother Sheikh Rehana, sister Azmina Siddique and brother Radwan Mujib Siddique, known as Bobby, are facing multiple corruption charges in relation to the allocation of plots in one of the largest housing projects in the country.

The Labour MP is the niece of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladeshs authoritarian former prime minister, who fled the country after she was ousted last year following a violent crackdown on student protesters.

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As the trial began on Wednesday, Ms Siddiq launched a fresh attack on the Bangladesh government of interim leader Prof Muhammad Yunus, and the legal proceedings, saying she had not even received a court summons.

False and vexatious allegations

The so-called trial now under way in Dhaka is nothing more than a farce  built on fabricated accusations and driven by a clear political vendetta, she posted on X.

Over the past year, the allegations against me have repeatedly shifted, yet I have never been contacted by the Bangladeshi authorities once.

I have never received a court summons, no official communication, and no evidence. If this were a genuine legal process, the authorities would have engaged with me or my legal team, responded to our formal correspondence, and presented the evidence they claim to hold.

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Instead, they have peddled false and vexatious allegations that have been briefed to the media but never formally put to me by investigators.

Muhammad Tariqul Islam, one of the prosecution team in the corruption trial, briefs the media following the court hearing on Wednesday - Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

Ms Siddiq, 42, said that Prof Yunus had refused her offer to meet when he recently visited London and claimed he was smearing her name to score political points.

Even my offer to meet  Muhammad Yunus during his recent visit to London was refused, she wrote. Such conduct is wholly incompatible with the principles of a fair trial that we uphold in the UK.

I have been clear from the outset that I have done nothing wrong and will respond to any credible evidence that is presented to me. Continuing to smear my name to score political points is both baseless and damaging.

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On the first day of the trial, it was claimed Ms Siddiq had exerted pressure and influence on Hasina to illegally hand land to her mother and siblings.

Bangladeshs Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) alleges Hasina, in collusion with senior officials, unlawfully obtained six plots of 7,200sq ft each in the diplomatic zone of Sector 27 of the Purbachal New Town project for herself and her family.

Muhammad Salahuddin, the ACC deputy director, who heads the investigation, recorded his statement before Judge Muhammad Rabiul Alam, of Dhaka Special Judge Court-4, saying the former prime minister concealed ownership of housing facilities in Dhaka in violation of existing laws.

The ACC has filed six separate cases with Hasina accused in each, while Ms. Siddiq has been named as an abettor in three corruption cases also involving her mother and two siblings.

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Ms. Siddiq manipulated and influenced Sheikh Hasina, who by virtue of her direct influence and under the special powers granted to her, abused the authority vested in her in breach of public trust to attain the property, claimed Mr Salahuddin.

A perusal of the records collected during the course of the investigation also reveals that the accused, Sheikh Hasina, influenced the allotment of the plots in the Purbachal New City Project in favour of the accused Sheikh Rehana, in violation of the rules, he added.

The court has set the next hearing as Aug 28.

The ACC has opened several investigations into Ms Siddiq, alleging corruption in connection with the government of Hasina, who fled to India last year after a mass uprising against her dictatorial rule.

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The ACC has listed all accused as fugitives and on July 31, charges were framed against 28 people, including Ms Siddiq, Hasina and other family members, as well as several current and former officials of the ministry of housing and public works.

Ms Siddiq has not appeared at any of the pre-trial hearings so far. The court previously issued a warrant for her arrest in April.

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.
Turkey and Syria signed a defence cooperation agreement on Wednesday as Ankara warned US-backed Kurdish fighters in northern Syria to halt activities it sees as a threat to its security.

The deal covers "joint training and consultancy," the Turkish Defence Ministry said on its website. The exact scope of the deal was not immediately clear.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged the Kurdish YPG militia to "remove themselves as a threat to Turkey and the region" at a press conference with Syrian counterpart Asaad al-Shaibani in Ankara.

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The YPG and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) control parts of northern Syria along the Turkish border. Turkish forces have targeted the groups in the past.

In March, the SDF militia agreed with the new Syrian leadership to fully integrate into state institutions by the end of 2025.

Turkey considers both the SDF and YPG offshoots of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and urges them to accelerate integration.

Damascus has been seeking Turkish help to rebuild war-damaged infrastructure, strengthen its power grid and contain Islamic State extremists.

Ankara also controls parts of northern Syria through allied militias.
By Alexander Dziadosz

RAFAH, Egypt (Reuters) - -Boxes of Gaza-bound aid turned back by Israel on Sunday languished atop a truck and flatbed trailer parked metres from its border with Egypt, as exasperated drivers and U.N. officials criticised delays in sending food and medicine to the enclave.

Seven aid officials and three truckers interviewed by Reuters listed a host of obstacles, ranging from rejections of shipments for minor packing and paperwork issues to heavy scrutiny over possible dual military use for a range of goods, as well as short working hours at the Israeli border crossing.

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The supplies seen by Reuters on Monday on the stalled truck and trailer outside Egypt's Rafah border crossing carried blue logos of the World Health Organisation and labels describing contents like topical medications and suction devices to clean wounds.

A WHO employee working at the border said the cargo was blocked for carrying "illegal medicines". Reuters could not independently verify why the trucks were not allowed to enter Gaza and the Israeli military authority in charge of coordinating aid did not respond to a question about why they were not let into the enclave.

Reuters visited Egypts border with Gaza on Monday on a trip organised by the Elders, a group of former world leaders set up by late South African President Nelson Mandela that backs a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Some Elders members have been highly critical of Israel's conduct in Gaza, including former Irish President Mary Robinson and former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, who joined the border trip.

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Responding to international outrage sparked by images of starving Gazans, Israel on July 27 announced measures to let more aid into Gaza. But aid agencies say only a fraction of what they send is getting in. Israel strongly denies limiting aid supplies.

Speaking to reporters at the Rafah crossing, Clark expressed shock at the amount of aid turned back at the border.

To see this crossing, which should be a place where people interact with each other, where people can come and go, where people arent under blockade, where people who are ill can leave to come out  to see it just silent for the people, its absolutely shocking for us, Clark said.

'BUREAUCRATIC HURDLES, DELAYS'

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Approvals and clearance procedures that got a shipment through the Rafah border crossing "within a few days" of arrival in Egypt during a ceasefire earlier in the war now took "minimum one month, according to the WHO employee at the border.

On Monday, the Hamas-run Gaza government media office said at least 1,334 trucks had entered Gaza through all land crossings, including from Egypt, since the Israeli measures announced on July 27, but this was far short of the 9,000 that would have gone in if 600 trucks had entered per day. The United States has said a minimum of 600 trucks per day are needed to feed Gaza's population.

Reuters could not independently confirm the reasons for the delays described in this article or the specific figures supplied by those interviewed.

Asked for its response to allegations of curbs on aid flows, the Israeli military agency that coordinates aid, COGAT, said Israel invests considerable efforts in aid distribution. It said about 300 trucks had been transferred daily in "recent weeks," mostly carrying food, via all land crossings.

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"Despite the claims made, the State of Israel allows and facilitates the provision of humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip without any quantitative limit on the number of aid trucks entering the Gaza Strip, COGAT said. The agency did not address specific questions about aid shipment volumes.

In mid-July, Israel introduced a requirement that shipments of humanitarian aid arriving from Egypt undergo customs clearance. According to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Israel's move led to "additional bureaucratic hurdles, delays, and costs for humanitarian organisations."

U.N. agencies were exempted from customs clearance from Egypt from July 27 to Aug. 3, OCHA said in a report on August 6. While not officially extended, the exemption still appeared to be in place, it said. Other international NGOs could be exempted only on a case-by-case basis and only for health items.

More than 200 Gazans have died of malnutrition or starvation in the war, according to Palestinian health authorities, adding to the over 61,000 dead they say have been killed by military action. The U.N. human rights office and several expert studies have said the number is probably an undercount.

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Israel has disputed the Gaza health ministry figures, which do not distinguish between fighters and civilians, and says at least a third of the fatalities are militants. On Monday, COGAT said a review by its medical experts found the number of deaths reported by the Gaza health ministry due to malnutrition was inflated and most of those "allegedly dying from malnutrition" had pre-existing conditions.

A WAREHOUSE OF REJECTED GOODS

Drivers coming from Egypt cannot go directly to the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing, which had been operated by the Hamas-run border authority but is now closed. Instead, they route to the Israeli crossing of Kerem Shalom, about three km (two miles) to the south, where shipments undergo checks.

Kamel Atteiya Mohamed, an Egyptian truck driver, estimated that of the 200 or 300 trucks trying to get through this route every day, only 30 to 50 make it.

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"They tell you, for example, that the pallet doesn't have a sticker, the pallet is tilted, or the pallet is open from the top. This is no reason for us to return it, he told Reuters. He said that while the Egyptian crossing was open day and night, drivers often arrived at Kerem Shalom only to find it closed, as it does not normally operate beyond weekday business hours.

Every day it's like this, he said. Honestly, we're fed up.

While COGAT did not address specific questions about the drivers remarks and allegations of inflexible working hours, it said that "hundreds of truckloads of aid still await collection by the UN and international organizations" on the Palestinian side of the border crossings.

A logistics site set up by the Egyptian Red Crescent near El Arish town, 40 km (25 miles) from the border, where shipments coming from Egypt to Gaza are loaded, has a tarp tent warehouse devoted to goods turned back from the border.

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A Reuters reporter saw rows of white oxygen tanks, as well as wheelchairs, car tires and cartons labelled as containing generators and first-aid kits and with logos of aid groups from countries such as Luxembourg and Kuwait, among others.

Reuters was not able to verify when the items at the Red Crescent site were turned back or on what grounds. Aid workers describe such rejections as routine.

Speaking at the meeting with the Elders that Reuters attended, one World Food Programme worker said that only 73 of the 400 trucks the agency had sent since July 27 had made it in.

U.N. Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA has not been allowed to send aid into Gaza since March. The OCHA August 6 report said no shelter materials had been allowed to enter Gaza since March 2 and those available on the local market were "prohibitively expensive and limited in quantity."

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The WHO employee who works on the border said the truck and trailer seen by Reuters were among three trucks that had been turned back on Sunday. A manifest given for their cargo, seen by Reuters, included urine drainage bags, iodine, plasters and sutures.

(Additional reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi, Maayan Lubell, Alexander Cornwell and Olivia Le Poidevin; Editing by William Maclean)
Responding to international outrage sparked by images of starving Gazans, Israel on July 27 announced measures to let more aid into Gaza. But aid agencies say only a fraction of what's sent gets in.

Boxes ofGaza-bound aid turned back by Israel on Sunday laid atop a truck and flatbed trailer parked meters from its border with Egypt, as frustrated drivers and UN officials criticized delays in sending food and medicine to the enclave.

Seven aid officials and three truckers interviewed by Reuters listed a host of obstacles, ranging from rejections of shipments for minor packing and paperwork issues to heavy scrutiny over possible dual military use for a range of goods, as well as short working hours at the Israeli border crossing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The supplies seen by Reuters on Monday on the stalled truck and trailer outside Egypt's Rafah border crossing carried blue logos of the World Health Organization and labels describing contents like topical medications and suction devices to clean wounds.

A WHO employee working at the border said the cargo was blocked for carrying "illegal medicines." Reuters could not independently verify why the trucks were not allowed to enter Gaza and the IDF who is in charge of coordinating aid did not respond to a question about why they were not let into the enclave.

Reuters visited Egypts border with Gaza on Monday on a trip organized by the Elders, a group of former world leaders set up by late South African president Nelson Mandela that backs a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestinians carry aid supplies they collected from trucks that entered Gaza through Israel, in Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip August 10, 2025. (credit: Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters)

Some Elders members have been highly critical of Israel's conduct in Gaza, including former Irish president Mary Robinson and former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark, who joined the border trip.

Advertisement Advertisement

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Responding to international outrage sparked by images of starving Gazans, Israel on July 27 announced measures to let more aid into Gaza. But aid agencies say only a fraction of what they send is getting in. Israel strongly denies limiting aid supplies.

Speaking to reporters at the Rafah crossing, Clark expressed shock at the amount of aid turned back at the border.

To see this crossing, which should be a place where people interact with each other, where people can come and go, where people arent under blockade, where people who are ill can leave to come out  to see it just silent for the people, its absolutely shocking for us, Clark said.

'Bureaucratic hurdles, delays'

Approvals and clearance procedures that got a shipment through the Rafah border crossing "within a few days" of arrival in Egypt during a ceasefire earlier in the war now took "minimum one month, according to the WHO employee at the border.

Advertisement Advertisement

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On Monday, the Hamas-run Gaza government media office said at least 1,334 trucks had entered Gaza through all land crossings, including from Egypt, since the Israeli measures announced on July 27, but this was far short of the 9,000 that would have gone in if 600 trucks had entered per day. The United States has said a minimum of 600 trucks per day are needed to feed Gaza's population.

Reuters could not independently confirm the reasons for the delays described in this article or the specific figures supplied by those interviewed.

Asked for its response to allegations of curbs on aid flows, the Israeli military agency that coordinates aid, COGAT, said Israel invests considerable efforts in aid distribution. It said about 300 trucks had been transferred daily in "recent weeks," mostly carrying food, via all land crossings.

"Despite the claims made, the State of Israel allows and facilitates the provision of humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip without any quantitative limit on the number of aid trucks entering the Gaza Strip, COGAT said. The agency did not address specific questions about aid shipment volumes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In mid-July, Israel introduced a requirement that shipments of humanitarian aid arriving from Egypt undergo customs clearance. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Israel's move led to "additional bureaucratic hurdles, delays, and costs for humanitarian organizations."

UN agencies were exempted from customs clearance from Egypt from July 27 to Aug. 3, OCHA said in a report on August 6. While not officially extended, the exemption still appeared to be in place, it said. Other international NGOs could be exempted only on a case-by-case basis and only for health items.

Israel has disputed the Hamas run Gaza health ministry figures, which do not distinguish between fighters and civilians, and says at least a third of the fatalities are terrorists. On Monday, COGAT said a review by its medical experts found the number of deaths reported by the Gaza health ministry due to malnutrition was inflated and most of those "allegedly dying from malnutrition" had pre-existing conditions.

A warehouse of rejected goods

Drivers coming from Egypt cannot go directly to the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing, which had been operated by the Hamas-run border authority but is now closed. Instead, they route to the Israeli crossing of Kerem Shalom, about three km (two miles) to the south, where shipments undergo checks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kamel Atteiya Mohamed, an Egyptian truck driver, estimated that of the 200 or 300 trucks trying to get through this route every day, only 30 to 50 make it.

"They tell you, for example, that the pallet doesn't have a sticker, the pallet is tilted, or the pallet is open from the top. This is no reason for us to return it, he told Reuters. He said that while the Egyptian crossing was open day and night, drivers often arrived at Kerem Shalom only to find it closed, as it does not normally operate beyond weekday business hours.

Every day it's like this, he said. Honestly, we're fed up.

While COGAT did not address specific questions about the drivers remarks and allegations of inflexible working hours, it said that "hundreds of truckloads of aid still await collection by the UN and international organizations" on the Palestinian side of the border crossings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A logistics site set up by the Egyptian Red Crescent near El Arish town, 40 km (25 miles) from the border, where shipments coming from Egypt to Gaza are loaded, has a tarp tent warehouse devoted to goods turned back from the border.

A Reuters reporter saw rows of white oxygen tanks, as well as wheelchairs, car tires and cartons labeled as containing generators and first-aid kits and with logos of aid groups from countries such as Luxembourg and Kuwait, among others.

Reuters was not able to verify when the items at the Red Crescent site were turned back or on what grounds. Aid workers describe such rejections as routine.

Speaking at the meeting with the Elders that Reuters attended, one World Food Programme worker said that only 73 of the 400 trucks the agency had sent since July 27 had made it in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA has not been allowed to send aid into Gaza since March. The OCHA August 6 report said no shelter materials had been allowed to enter Gaza since March 2 and those available on the local market were "prohibitively expensive and limited in quantity."

The WHO employee who works on the border said the truck and trailer seen by Reuters were among three trucks that had been turned back on Sunday. A manifest given for their cargo, seen by Reuters, included urine drainage bags, iodine, plasters and sutures.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A woman in Abilene who loves animals brought bow ties for pets at All Kind Animal Initiative.

Karen Mast, who was a stockbroker for 25 years and is now retired, has used August, which is known as Clear the Shelter month, to bring bow ties that she purchased for the animal shelter. Mast shared that she thought she could do something to bring more attention to the shelter and get more dogs adopted, since she said that looking sharp opens doors.

Clear the Shelters: Steel the Cat

What connects Mast to animals is the years she has dedicated to working with them.

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I grew up with them since I was a kid, and were all they have. Im just trying to give some a chance to find a home, Mast said.

Mast ordered around 200  some for kittens, and some for small and big dogs. She also added that making these animals look sharp would not just bring attention to the pets but also to the shelter, as she hopes it increases the opportunities for animals to find a new home.

Mast also shared that she ordered these ties several years ago for Christmas time, and she said that people would look at the dogs longer, and it helped a lot in getting them adopted.

Big Country shelters join Clear the Shelters pet adoption drive

They used them for years, and they said it really helped. People looked at the dogs longer, and it just helped, said Mast.

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Bow ties arent the only things she brings to the shelter. Mast shared other items she also brings.

I bring treats and Ive donated dog food, and there are lots of things that people can do, but the main thing is trying to find them homes, said Mast.

Brown County Humane Society offers free pet adoptions in August

Fostering animals briefly was also part of Masts work for animals, as she recalls from her student days.

I remember being at Tech as a student, and I would go to the animal shelter, and I didnt really have a place to keep them, but I found a way to foster them for a little bit, give them a bath, spiff them up. I rescued a couple of beagles, Lonnie and Ronnie, and I found them a home the next day, Mast said.

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Mast said that shes been helping animals for much longer than 20 years  estimating around 50 years  and shared how rewarding it is.

Its just rewarding, mostly to the animals, to try to find a home, but for the people who adopt them, they do become best friends. Theyre my best friends. I have 10 at home, and I live in the country, so I have room for them, said Mast.

Mast then shared what it means to contribute to pets in shelters.

They can be great friends, and I know thats an old saying, your best friend, but thats what they become over time. They count on us. Ive got some that are my very, very best friends right in Tuscola, said Mast.

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Mast hopes for involvement from people, and she also said that the lack of spaying and neutering is the reason why there are over 200 animals in the shelter. That, she said, is part of the responsibility of having a new animal  and one of the very first things owners should do.

Kelly McCoy, whos the Executive Director of All Kind Animal Initiative, shared how grateful she was for Mast giving out the bowties and ties.

I think thats wonderful. We have so many great dogs here, and sometimes they get overlooked because there are just sheer numbers. So anything we can do to draw attention to those animals, to maybe make a shout out on social media or to involve the community in getting animals adopted  were always happy to do that, and we love that she thought of the animals here at All Kind, McCoy said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  An organization founded by a Louisiana native aims to help minority students raise their ACT scores and their ability to score college scholarships.

Angelica Harris, born and raised in New Orleans, founded Top Tutors for Us to help close the racial gap in standardized testing.

What we know is that Black students, according to the ACT in 2023, only five percent of these students hit the college and career readiness benchmark, which means that only five percent scored above a 20. And as we know in Louisiana, a 20 is required to be eligible to receive TOPS scholarships, Harris said.

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Although the ACT is no longer a graduation requirement in Louisiana, it is still required for college attendance, and students wishing to qualify for TOPS scholarships must score between 20 and 27 for the varying award levels.

Harris said her personal experience with the ACT. The first time she took the ACT, her score was a 16, and subsequent tests using traditional programs and strategies did not improve it. When she tried something different, she got a different result. By building a study program tailored to her needs, she raised her score by 16 points, earned more than $1.5M in scholarships, and became the original case study for Top Tutors for Us.

More Louisiana News

If GPA were an indicator of standardized test scores, Harris would have breezed through the ACT and scored through the roof. But what we know is that factors such as rigor, access to test prep resources, language proficiency, and culture contribute to outcomes on standardized tests.

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Harris learned through her experience that connecting students, particularly underrepresented students, with tutors who look like them is crucial. She said her program consists of Black and brown students with Black tutors that get them really, really big jumps in their scores.

According to the Hechinger Report, having a Black teacher, in particular, does a lot of good for students, especially minority students. Black students who have one Black teacher by third grade are 7% more likely to graduate high school and 13% more likely to enroll in college. The likelihood that Black students who have had at least two Black teachers enrolling in college jumps by 32%.

In addition to the information being presented to the students by someone with a similar background, Harris explained other factors that negatively impact minority student performance on standardized tests.

We just start really late in the process. So we have less time to prepare. The second reason, as we know, the test is Eurocentric. The language, especially in the English and reading sections, is a new kind of way that we have to interpret concepts and materials, which is different from what we typically see in our classrooms.

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Another and more glaring barrier to entry is the cost of test prep programs and materials, making it inaccessible for students from lower-income households.

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At Top Tutors for Us, what we do is we actually partner with schools and college-bound organizations, and students that are part of those partnering schools receive our program completely free, Harris said.

Tutors are recruited from some of the nations most notable colleges and universities, who are vetted on test scores and leadership experience. Sessions and materials are available online. Whats really nice about being virtual is that we leverage an online classroom, an advanced online classroom where students literally feel like theyre in a classroom with a whiteboard and have tons of practice interaction with the tutors and being virtual allows our students to meet tutors anytime, anywhere.

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Before students get into sessions with tutors, an assessment is done to identify gaps in learning, and lesson plans are built to ensure those gaps are filled.

Harris suggests that students start taking the ACT as early as eighth grade to get a feel of the test. Here are other tips for families as students head back to school:

Set a weekly practice goal: 20-30 minutes of ACT practice questions a few times a week can build confidence and skills over time.

Use free resources: Take advantage of free online ACT practice tests and tools available.

Read EVERY DAY: Strengthening reading comprehension is key not just for the ACT but for overall academic success.

Know whats on the test: Parents are encouraged to help children review the ACT format to become familiar with it and avoid becoming overwhelmed.

Seek support early: Dont wait until junior or senior year to start looking for tutoring resources.

Interested families can take advantage of a test prep and scholarship webinar hosted by Angelica Harris on Wednesday, August 20. For more information about Top Tutors for Us, visit their website to learn about costs and tutoring plans. School administrators or teachers interested in partnering with Top Tutors for Us or learning more about the program can email info@toptutorsforus.com.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Two men have denied murdering a father-of-three who was shot as he left a silent disco in south London.

Leroy Mitchell, 35, was killed in a car park in Birdhurst Road, Croydon, just before 05:00 (GMT) on 2 October 2021. He had been at a headphone party at a house in the same road before his death.

Cimarron Dume-Gooden, 32, and Alpacino Veii, 29, each pleaded not guilty to a charge of murdering Mr Mitchell and perverting the course of justice when they appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday.

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It is alleged they attempted to pervert the course of justice by setting a BMW alight and destroying the clothing inside it and also by hiding at addresses in Walsall and Somerset.

Dume-Gooden, of no fixed address, and Veii, of Southwark, south-east London, were ordered to next appear for a further preliminary hearing on 26 September.

A six-week trial is due to begin in February 2026.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk

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A two-car crash near Elbe left both drivers injured Wednesday morning.

The driver of a black Toyota 4Runner was traveling north on state Route 7 when they crossed into the southbound lanes and struck a red pickup truck. Three people were in the truck, including the driver. Washington State Patrol Trooper John Dattilo wrote on X at 11:19 a.m.

Both drivers sustained serious injuries. Dattilo told The News Tribune that the Toyotas driver was unconscious when State Patrol arrived at the scene. The drivers were taken to a hospital. Everyone in both vehicles were adults.

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The passengers of the pickup were not injured.

Impairment was not a factor in the crash, but Dattilo said troopers plan to follow up with the hospital. No charges are planned.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

State Patrol is alternating traffic on the highway using the northbound lane. Dattilo said they are waiting for tow trucks to take the vehicles, which may take a while to clear the road.
GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN)  The Texas Department of Transportation is celebrating the end of a months-long project beneath the surface of Central Texas.

The team recently spent 18 days over a four-month period mapping Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown. The 3D model of the caverns will help TxDOT plan future projects along the I-35 corridor, according to a press release from TxDOT.

The caverns were originally discovered in 1963 during the construction of Interstate 35.

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They were expecting to hit maybe a small cave, but nothing to the magnitude that interspace cavern is, said Tanya Vessels, General Manager of Inner Space Cavern.

Vessels said a planned expansion is the main reason for mapping the cave. The cave runs five miles and is on both sides of I-35.

The mapping project required multiple teams to spend hours underground. TxDOT limited their expeditions to three days a week so that Inner Space Cavern, a popular tourists destination, could remain open for tours.

We kind of formulated the plan that this would be a great opportunity to use new technology that never been used in a cave before, at least in Texas, said Adrian Martinez, acting assistant section director for the digital delivery team at TXDOT.

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Martinez is an assistant manager at Inner Space Cavern on the weekends.

Its exciting because it merges kind of one of my hobbies along with what I do for a job, Martinez said.

Inner Space Caverns in Georgetown, Texas (KXAN Photo/Ben Friberg)

TxDOT used survey equipment and a robot, named Dot, to capture scans of the cavern. Dot, equipped with LIDAR, could venture into hard to reach areas.

(It) could walk along and it could stop do it scan it kind of levels itself, and thats how it was able to kind of go through, said Caleb Nieri, a photogrammetrist with TxDOT. Nieri worked in the caves to map it out.

Scans taken in the caverns were used to develop the map. The underground map will be paired with an above-ground map.

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Data was also gathered using a drone and LIDAR detectors carried by TxDOT crews.

We merged all those together, and were able to create a 3d model or three version of the cave along the trails, said Martinez.

The information will be used by TxDOT while planning future projects in an effort to avoid damaging the caverns.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
TYLER, Texas (KETK)  A church in Tyler is doing its part to support local hunger relief efforts by donating over 4,000 gallons of milk to various East Texas nonprofits.

East Texas NASA balloon facility to continue operations after lawmaker secures funds

On Wednesday, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints delivered 4,320 gallons of milk to the East Texas Food Bank (ETFB) and Catholic Charities. Following the donation, Dave Woodyard, the CEO of Catholic Charities, spoke about the profound impact that the donations have on the community.

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Were incredibly grateful for the partnership, generosity and grace of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in providing milk to our pantries, Woodyard said. Collaborations like these make a huge difference in serving the most vulnerable in our community.

PHOTOS: Upshur County Sheriffs Office seeking homes for 2 dogs found in poor condition

The donations will aid families as they begin to prepare for a new school year, as milk serves as a source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium while also playing a key role in nutrition. According to Feeding America, milk is one of the most requested and hardest items to obtain at food banks.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided donations to both nonprofits in the past and has been recognized with the Hunger Hero Award for its previous contributions to the ETFB.

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We are privileged to work so closely with these partners to ease the burden in our communities, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Charles Rhodus said. Our goal is to give as Jesus Christ would give to those in need.

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.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday alleged that a senior BJP functionary is shifting his voter registration across multiple states ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. In a post on X, Yadav claimed that Bhikhu Bhai Dalsania, a resident of Gujarat and State Organisation General Secretary of Bihar BJP, who he claimed is a close confidant of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, has removed his name from Gujarat's voter list and registered as a voter in Bihar. https://x.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1955522562663842114 "This is Bhikhu Bhai Dalsania Ji. He is a resident of Gujarat. He is the State Organisation General Secretary of the Bihar BJP. He is a close confidant of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. He has been assigned to BJP's special Bihar project," he wrote on X. Yadav claimed Dalsania previously voted in Amit Shah's Gandhinagar constituency and might register in another state after the Bihar elections. He added, "In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he voted in Home Minister Amit Shah Ji's Lok Sabha constituency, Gandhinagar. Now, with the Bihar Assembly elections approaching, he has removed his name from Gujarat's voter list and become a voter in Bihar. Once the Bihar elections are over, he will likely become a voter in another state. He should clarify how many times and in how many states he votes in five years." According to Yadav, the voter list in Bihar does not show any address or house number for Dalsania, and his name appears in the Gujarati language rather than Hindi, which he claimed could make it difficult for Hindi-speaking voters to identify. "In the place in Bihar where he is registered as a voter, no address or house number is listed in the voter list. His name in Bihar's voter list is written not in Hindi but in the Gujarati language, so that no Hindi-speaking person can read it. The Election Commission's greatness is boundless, but this time we are closely monitoring every detail. We will not let the Election Commission's vote theft succeed in Bihar," the post added on X. Earlier today, Yadav alleged that the Election Commission of India is working with the Bharatiya Janata Party to manipulate the voter list in Bihar by issuing two Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers to its leaders and workers. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, Yadav stated, "Before we had talked about Bihar's deputy chief minister, Vijay Sinha. Now you call it a crime, a mistake, or an expose, we had said it before too, but today I want to tell you that EC is helping the BJP, and cutting the votes of the Opposition. The people of the BJP are being given not one, but two EPIC numbers for themselves, in one Vidhan Sabha only." "We are exposing one more thing. Muzzafapur's mayor, a BJP leader, named Nirmala Devi, she has two EPIC IDs in the same vidhan sabha. In that, too, they are different. Not only this, but Nirmala Devi has two brothers-in-law; they also have two EPIC numbers," he added. The RJD leader further alleged that names of people from other states were being added to Bihar's voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) ahead of the assembly elections. Meanwhile, Bihar elections are expected to be held later this year in October or November; however, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has not announced an official date. While the NDA, comprising the BJP, JD(U), and LJP, aims to continue its tenure in Bihar, the INDIA bloc, comprising the RJD, Congress, and left parties, seeks to oust Nitish Kumar. In the current Bihar Assembly of 243 members, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) consists of 131 with the BJP having 80 MLAs, JD(U)-45, HAM(S)-4, with the support of 2 Independent Candidates. The Opposition's INDIA Bloc has a strength of 111 members with RJD leading with 77 MLAs, Congress-19, CPI(ML)-11, CPI(M)-2 and CPI-2. (ANI)
Montana GOP Executive Director Tyler Newcombe reads out votes during the party's convention. (Micah Drew/Daily Montanan)

The Montana Republican Party announced on Wednesday that Tyler Newcombe has resigned from his role as Executive Director, after serving in the position since the beginning of the year. He will be taking on a new role as communications director and advisor for State Auditor James Brown.

It has been an incredible honor to work with such a dedicated team on advancing conservative values across Montana, Newcombe said in a press release. Im proud of what we accomplished together and confident that the MTGOP is well-positioned for the future.

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The party plans to announce a new executive director in the coming weeks.

The party hired Newcombe in January to replace Danielle Bradley, who stepped down after leading the MTGOP through the 2022 and 2024 election cycles which turned Montana into a solidly red state, with Republicans winning every statewide office and sweeping the Congressional delegation for the first time in more than a century.

While overseeing the partys work during the 2025 legislative session, Newcombe also broke fundraising records and set the party on a path to more victories in the coming years, according to the press release.

I appreciate Tylers service to the Montana Republican Party and wish him the best in his future endeavors, MTGOP Chairman Art Wittich said.

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Newcombe officially stepped down last week, but stayed on in an unofficial capacity through the start of the transition period. In addition to his communications work in the Auditors office, Newcombe also works as a political consultant for many Montana Republicans.

Im excited to join the office of James Brown to highlight the work he does to defend Montanans from fraud, prosecute bad actors, and assist Montanans with proactively helping them with finding the best rates for their families, Newcombe told the Daily Montanan.

In another change at the state party, Ethan Holmes has been brought on to serve as communications director to handle press affairs and as the primary point of contact for the party.

Holmes is a University of Montana graduate who worked in communications and as a legislative advisor for the Senate Republicans during the 2025 session.

The MTGOP looks forward to delivering the conservative agenda mandated by voters, growing its grassroots base, and keeping Montana bright red, according to the release.
She instantly knew it was a mistake.

Karalee Merrill looked at her teenage son. "You didn't actually type that, did you?" she asked.

His face transformed from humor to panic. The boy was a top-performing sophomore at Marana High School but had received a bad grade. He was composing an email to his teacher for clarification but started writing jokes because he felt awkward, his mom told The Arizona Republic.

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"Mister, mister, I want to date your sister," he typed and narrated in a silly voice. "Skibidi toilet my grade is in the toilet," was another.

Then, "GANG, GANG, GIMME A BETTER GRADE OR I SHOOT UP DA SKOOL HOMIE."

It was a comment he couldn't take back, even though he deleted the words and never sent the email.

School administrators saw it within an hour because of a monitoring software installed on school laptops. Such software increasingly is common in Arizona and nationwide.

The Merrills' son was suspended by the end of the day. The principal delivered the news in a late-night voicemail. The family fought to get the suspension lifted, but administrators refused. They eventually agreed to shorten it to nine days, but by that time the boy already had served 11.

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Now, Curtis and Karalee Merrill are suing on behalf of their son. They filed a complaint against Marana Unified School District in federal district court in mid-July, saying the punishment and disciplinary process violated his First Amendment free speech rights and denied him due process under the 14th Amendment.

Their attorneys, Gregg Leslie and Aaron Baumann at Arizona State University's First Amendment Clinic, say it's an example of how well-intended policies meant to protect students can go too far, policing speech and actions in violation of civil liberties.

The case puts a spotlight on the tension between students' First Amendment rights and schools' responsibility to maintain a safe environment. And it raises questions about students' privacy, plus when and how schools should fairly discipline students.

The son is unnamed in the complaint. The Republic also is not naming the minor.

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If the Merrills and school officials don't agree to a settlement first, the case could provide clarity about students' free speech rights and how far schools can go to address potential threats.

But the surveillance the Merrills' son faced isn't rare.

Privacy and technology experts say it's part of a broader trend of schools using software to improve safety, but with little evidence the programs work and despite growing concerns from parents  if the parents were even aware it's happening.

"It's not uncommon that the first time a parent or student learns about (monitoring software) is when they are on the receiving end of some type of action, either from the school or even law enforcement," Elizabeth Laird, director of equity in civil technology at the Center for Democracy and Technology, said.

Arizona school districts spend millions monitoring students online

At least 52 Arizona school districts or charter schools have paid for monitoring software in the past five years, according to GovSpend, a company that tracks government spending data.

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The districts altogether have spent nearly $4 million. Gilbert Public Schools, Sunnyside Unified School District and Scottsdale Unified School District topped the list of spenders, each allocating hundreds of thousands for the technology.

The amount of money spent and the number of districts included likely are an undercount because some school districts have not yet submitted their 2023 through 2025 data to GovSpend, company spokesperson Paige Mockler told The Republic. The figure also doesn't include future spending already committed.

Some of the programs included GoGuardian, Securly and Navigate360. Some school districts pay for multiple providers at once.

The programs typically screen students' device activity for specific keywords, then use artificial intelligence to assess and potentially trigger an alert. Sometimes alerts, which include screenshots of the device, go straight to school officials. Other times, they go to software employees for human screening before going to the school.

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Officials in Arizona school districts who've discussed monitoring software in public have praised its ability to detect self-harm risks.

In Gilbert, the district's technology officer Jon Castelhano said in May it had "literally saved some lives. It's pretty incredible." In a blog post on GoGuardian's website, he said the school was notified about a student's search history showing signs of suicidal intent, and that caregivers were "actually able to go up to the students bedroom, intervene, and get help for them immediately."

Gilbert Public Schools spokesperson Dawn Mackay said the technology was used to enhance student safety and comply with the Children's Internet Protection Act, which concerns kids' access to obscene or harmful material online. The system flags material related to violence, self-harm and pornography, she said, and blocks access to sites that could contain viruses or malicious content.

Mackay said "administrators and appropriate staff are involved on a need-to-know basis only," and if they are involved, they're "well-trained" on district policy and procedures, plus relevant state and national laws, such as the Family Educational Rights and Policy Act.

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Some Arizona school officials have indicated they want to take the software further.

In 2023, a school board member in west Phoenix's Cartwright School District suggested the district ask parents if they wanted to install the software on kids' personal devices. Currently, such programs are restricted to school devices, though they can be activated on students' personal cell phones if the student uses a school Google account, for example.

School administrators and board members did not discuss the implications to privacy or free speech in meetings reviewed by The Republic. Aside from anecdotes, they also didn't present data or evidence showing the software had measurably improved safety or reduced harm  though in Gilbert, the technology officer did comment on the software's high cost.

Family's attorneys claim First Amendment protections

The Merrills are asking the judge to expunge the suspension from their son's record and bar the school from implementing its discipline policy against students exercising constitutional First Amendment rights. They're also requesting damages for "pain, suffering, (and) emotional distress," plus attorneys' fees.

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Marana school district officials declined multiple interview requests with The Republic and did not respond to certain questions about the district's policies surrounding Gaggle, citing ongoing litigtation. A spokesperson said parents were notified about the monitoring software in the Chromebook policy, which parents are required to read and sign off on each year.

The policy warns students may be disciplined for misusing devices, including "suspension, temporary or permanent loss of computer/network privileges, contact with law enforcement, etc."

Merrill was aware some monitoring of her son's computer occurred. She got a weekly report of what he searched and videos he watched.

"But there has never been anything that made me think that down to the very keystrokes ... I had no idea just how much was being monitored," she said.

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Marana High School Principal Caitlyn Kauffman gave the student a 10-day suspension, then told him to attend a hearing for a potential long-term suspension. The district hearing officer gave him a 45-day suspension but said it could be shortened to 11 days, if he agreed to three therapy sessions.

In court documents filed by the Merrills' attorneys, Marana officials said the student's suspension was warranted because he violated the school's policy banning threats.

The Merrills appealed, but Joshua Bayne, the district's executive director of state and federal programs, said the student's "subjective intent does not change the fact that it was reasonable to foresee that [his] words would cause fear in others.  (His) words did have a reasonable effect to inflict fear or realize personal gain (i.e., a better grade)."

The court filings do not say whether Bayne considered the fact the boy didn't actually send the message.

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After the Merrills' appealed again, district Superintendent Daniel Streeter upheld the suspension but shortened it to nine days. The boy had already served 11 days and gone to therapy though, Merrill said.

But the Merrills' attorneys say regardless of the schools' intention to prevent violence, the student "had a First Amendment right to make a joke about school violence while at home with his mother."

The suspension violated the boy's rights because the school didn't have sufficient reason to believe it faced an identifiable and credible threat, they said. They pointed out that the school let the student back on campus to take his PSAT.

The attorneys also say students' free speech rights are greater off campus than on, and point to a three-pronged test used by federal courts to determine the legality of school regulations related to off-campus speech. That test includes considering:

The degree and likelihood of harm to the school caused or augured by the speech.

Whether it was reasonably foreseeable that the speech would reach and impact the school.

The relation between the content and context of the speech and the school.

The Merrills' son's action was not a credible threat and didn't cause disruption or harm to the school, attorneys said.

Privacy experts: Software has major implications; parents left behind

Privacy and technology experts have deep concerns about what's known as EdTech surveillance. The Center for Democracy and Technology, Electronic Frontier Foundation, Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University and American Civil Liberties Union say the software companies push deceptive marketing practices, exploit fear, normalize invasion of privacy and erode trust.

Some of the groups have struggled to get more information about how the software companies work. In March, the Knight Institute sued a Texas school district to obtain records related to websites blocked and keywords scanned.

"One of our primary concerns with the use of these systems is that they'll be deployed to spy on students' self expression and political views," Jennifer Jones, a staff attorney at the institute, said. "The lack of privacy deprives students of a space for self-development, exploration and development ... at a really crucial time in their lives."

While software companies make strong claims about safety and mitigating risk, researchers say there's no independent data to test the programs' effectiveness. That means there's no unbiased verdict on whether monitoring software meaningfully reduces harm or improves safety, which leaves school officials relying on the word of company vendors  and the companies have proved persuasive.

Usage across the nation has skyrocketed, and without full awareness by parents.

According to a survey from the Center for Democracy and Technology, nine in 10 schools use monitoring software. That's the highest metric since the center started the survey six years ago. Yet, only 45% of parents surveyed were aware of it.

Laird, who works at the organization, said she's concerned parents also don't realize how extensive the tracking is: that it primarily tracks school devices but can in some cases monitor students' personal cell phones if they log into their school accounts. Also, that programs can track students 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including geographic data.

While schools aim for safety, "the far more common outcome is that students get in trouble as a result of this," Laird said.

Half of teachers surveyed by the center said students faced discipline for online activity  LGBTQ students and students with disabilities reported higher rates. Meanwhile, 57% of parents said they'd prefer to opt their kids out of software that can lead to disciplinary measures.

The center's data show parents historically have tended to think the software's benefits outweigh the risks, but that support fell eight percentage points between 2022 and 2023, to 55%.

Laird thinks more parents are understanding that the tools come with a cost, not just financial but via indirect harm to children  especially when the red flag alerts are unfounded.

"Putting in place something where kids don't feel comfortable expressing their true thoughts and feelings online, may actually be counter to the very mission of schools," Laird said.

'My son is now a statistic'

Merrill said the diciplinary experience at Marana changed her son and the way she views monitoring sofware.

"I've heard more and more about people who have been in trouble for something similar," she said. "I almost feel like my son is now a statistic to make it look like, 'Hey, look at what great technology we have for stopping school shootings!' And it makes me wonder how many of these statistics are similar to my son."

She said he has lost trust in teachers he once felt safe with and had to fight to regain confidence.

"He's worked hard all his academic life to to be a good student. To be a good kid. He volunteers," Merrill said. "And to feel like none of that mattered? To feel like he can do good things his whole life, and one little mistake that he didn't even realize was as big of a mistake as it turned out to be ... And everything that he trusted kind of turned on him."

Merrill said she would have accepted a gentler discipline, like detention, but feels like suspension was too extreme. She and her her husband worry it could affect their son's future. He wants to be a valedictorian and has ambitions of applying to the Air Force Academy, she said.

Merrill said she never worried about her son harming anyone. She said he had "dark humor" and that she sometimes had "to talk about what's approrpiate (and) what's not appropriate" with him. She also said she thought it was normal for kids to sometimes make jokes as a way of dealing with serious, difficult subjects.

She acknowledged the severity of the subject, saying, "Both my husband and I are former public school teachers. I get that school safety is important."

But, she added, "Having had this experience, I'm realizing what kinds of freedoms ... we're giving up for an illusion of safety."

Taylor Seely is a First Amendment Reporting Fellow at The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com. Do you have a story about the government infringing on your First Amendment rights? Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com or by phone at 480-476-6116.

Seely's role is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Funders do not provide editorial input.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Parents sue Arizona school after son punished for shooting 'joke'
DES MOINES, Iowa  The Iowa State Fairgrounds is known as a testing ground for party viewpoints and politicians political platforms.

At the fair on Tuesday, U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R) LA-01 walked around livestock barns, ate fried food and sat down with WHO 13s Zach Fisher for an exclusive interview.

Single-day record for eggs on a stick served at Iowa State Fair broken

Leader Scalise discussed why he is in Iowa, and expanded on President Trumps Big, Beautiful bill passage. He also previewed President Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin coming up later this week, and talked other national and international issues.

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You can find the full interview in the video player above.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
Haitis most notorious gang leader has been indicted by a federal jury in Washington, D.C., after which the FBI announced a $5 million bounty for information leading to his capture.

Jimmy Cherizier, aka Barbecue 48, is one of the leaders of the powerful Viv Ansanm gang coalition. Last year, the alliance was responsible for the deaths of more than 5,600 people, and already this year the number is beyond 3,000, the United Nations has said.

Cheriziers name was revealed Tuesday after federal authorities unsealed an indictment in federal court in Washington D.C. charging him and Bazile Richardson, 48, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Fayetteville, N.C., with leading a conspiracy to transfer money from the U.S. to Cherizier to fund his gang activities in Haiti in violation of the U.S. sanctions imposed on Cherizier. The case is the first-ever prosecution for alleged violations of Global Magnitsky Act sanctions.

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READ MORE: Prison or death awaits: U.S. trucker accused of financing Haiti gang leader

The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act was enacted in 2016 and empowers the president of the United States to impose economic sanctions on foreigners who have engaged in human rights violations. Under the act, it is unlawful for U.S. citizens or people located in the U.S. to engage in any transaction involving the property or interests in property of a sanctioned individual.

A former Haiti National Police officer, Cherizier was sanctioned in December 2020 by the U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control for his role in leading armed groups in coordinated, brutal attacks in Port-au-Prince, including a 2018 massacre in the capitals La Saline working class neighborhood. Cherizier was still an active cop at the time of the La Saline attack, which marked his shift to violent gang leader, and resulted in at least 71 people being killed, over 400 houses destroyed and at least seven women raped. In 2022, Cherizier he was added to a global terrorist list by the United Nations following other harrowing incidents of human rights abuses in Haiti as his G9 and Family gang fought for control over territory before helping to form Viv Ansanm.

In a 35 seconds video posted on social media after the announcement, Cherizier, speaking English and seeming spook, said hes willing to collaborate with the FBI on one condition.

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There can be no lies told, Cherizier said, insisting that Richardson, aka Fredo, is innocent. He has never sent any money to me to finance anything in Haiti. Stop with all those lies and we can collaborate.

The reward by the FBI is the highest for a gang leader in Haiti. Gang leader Vitelhomme Innocent has a $2 million FBI bounty for alleged role in the kidnappings of U.S. citizens. Like Cherizier, Innocent, who controls the area around the U.S. embassy in the city of Tabarre, is a leader of Viv Ansanm.

The $5 million reward raises the stakes in the countrys effort to curb the violence by powerful criminal groups that have taken the capital, Port-au-Prince, to the verge of collapse. For months, an anti-gang task force using weaponized drones under the supervision of private military contractors have been trying to take down high value targets.

Violent actors like Cherizier, and the rest of his criminal associates must understand there is no safe haven for them and the people like them that traffic violence in our communities, said Darren Cox, the FBIs acting assistant director for the Criminal Investigative Division. The FBI and our partners will continue to leverage all of the resources that are available and the expertise that we have to bring these people to justice.

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Transnational crime by foreign terrorist organizations threatens the safety and security of the U.S., he said, and tackling these networks means addressing every link in the chain and every cell, abroad and in the U.S. Cox said the FBIs office in Miami has been working to track down Cherizier, who has an active presence on social media platforms, and his Viv Ansanm cohorts and associates in the U.S.

We know someone has information that can help end this violence, and we want them to come forward and know that they are safe in doing so, Cox said. We urge anybody with information related to Cherizier, and any of his criminal network, to contact the FBI tips line or our local field office.

The indictment is the result of a lengthy investigation into the gang leaders criminal activities. The investigation focused on Cheriziers illicit activities including identifying his procurement of firearms and trafficking networks, fundraising operations and the movement and use of dollars in violation of U.S. sanctions.

These criminal groups utilize complex strategies to acquire American weapons systems, sensitive technology, financial assets and other resources to commit crimes across the globe endangering Americans both domestically and abroad, said Ivan Arvelo, assistant director of Homeland Security Investigations.

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The case, he said, has been a great example of law enforcement agencies working together to leverage each others strengths and unique authorities in pursuit of a common goal. In addition to the HSI and the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the State Department, the U.S. Attorneys Office in Washington, D.C., and the Department of Justices National Security Division were involved.

Designated as foreign and terrorists earlier this year, Haitis armed gangs have managed to outgunned both the countrys beleaguered police force and an ill-equipped Kenya-led multinational security force, and presently control 90% of the capital while also quickly expanding to other regions. Cherizier has remained an active figure in the effort, fashioning himself as a revolutionary leader while blocking movement around the capital and helping to fuel a humanitarian crisis that has nearly 6 million Haitians going hungry and 1.3 million forced from their homes.

His actions to fund the oppression and slaughter of Haitians, including firearm procurement and trafficking networks, fundraising activities, movement and usage of U.S. dollars, and violations of sanctions, are unconscionable  but today marks a step towards accountability, said acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd M. Lyons.

The indictment claims Cherizier and Richardson, a trucker who described himself as a close friend of the warlord, led a wide-ranging conspiracy with others in the U.S., Haiti, and elsewhere to raise funds for Cheriziers gang activities. In particular, the indictment says, the duo directly solicited money transfers from members of the Haitian diaspora in the U.S. Funds were sent to intermediaries in Haiti for Cheriziers benefit. Cherizier, used these funds to pay salaries to the members of his gang and to buy weapons from illicit firearms dealers in Haiti, U.S. officials said.

Last month, while in Houston, Richardson was arrested by the FBIs Houston office. He was a named co-conspirator in the indictment that also lists seven other unnamed individuals including two naturalized U.S. citizens from Haiti who live in New York and Massachusetts, and a Haitian national who lives in North Carolina. The others all reside in Haiti.
An MQ-9 Guardian medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) flew deep into Mexico this morning, according to flight tracking data. What at least appears publicly to be a very rare event comes as the Trump administration has reportedly authorized the military to take action against cartels in Mexico.

The drone, using the call sign TROY701, took off from San Angelo, Texas, at about 4 a.m. Eastern Time and flew more than 800 miles south, including about 600 miles deep into Mexican airspace, according to data provided by FlightRadar24 and shared on X by our friend @thenewarea51.

US Reaper drone orbiting deep inside Mexico



Is this like US an anti-cartel operation?  pic.twitter.com/6LdQiQcKcp  Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) August 13, 2025

TROY is a known Department of Homeland Security (DHS) callsign and San Angelo is one of three locations where CBP has MQ-9s. The military variant of the Guardian is the MQ-9 Reaper, which can employ a variety of weapons in addition to collecting data from a vast array of reconfigurable sensors. CBPs MQ-9 variants are not armed.

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As far as the flight track that is visible to the public, the drone conducted several orbits in an area in the southern state of Mexico, to the west of Mexico City. Sometime after flying over this area, about six hours into the flight, the MQ-9 disappeared off online tracking software.

Interesting. A US CBP MQ-9B Guardian (shows as USAF on FR24) CBP-113 #AE2FD0 as TROY701 out of San Angelo, appears to be operating W of Toluca.

H/T to @sipjack1776 for the spot@All_Source_News @natsecboogie @ioangrillo @KatarinaSzulc pic.twitter.com/IQi18gAxeC  Johnny Gemini (@Borrowed7Time) August 13, 2025

The drone was operating at the behest of the Mexican government, according to the head of that nations Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, Omar Garcia Harfuch.

La aeronave que ha sobrevolado las ultimas horas el Estado de Mexico no es un avion militar, sino un avion no tripulado que vuela a peticion especifica de una institucion del Gobierno de Mexico, aclaro el titular de la Secretaria de Seguridad y Proteccion Ciudadana, Omar Garcia pic.twitter.com/Ok53AWJsEL  NMas (@nmas) August 13, 2025

However, it is unclear at the moment why the MQ-9 had taken this unusual flight path or where it went after going dark. CBP drone operators are fully aware that they can be tracked online with ease when broadcasting with their transponders. The area they circled over may have been part of an active collection area or it may not have been, with the aircraft moving to more sensitive locales after it stopped transmitting. We have reached out to CBP and the White House for more details and will update this story with any pertinent information provided.

CBP operates a pocket fleet of Q-9 aircraft, including these Predator-B drones, the cousin of the Guardian drone flown on this mission. (CBP)

While we dont know the flights objective, those tracking cartels note that the area where the drone did its orbits is the territory of the notorious La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) cartel.

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The organization was sanctioned by the U.S. under a 2021 Biden executive order for illegally delivering large amounts of Fentanyl and synthetic opioids north of the border, causing the deaths of tens of thousands of Americans annually. In April, two of its leaders were indicted on trafficking charges. Siblings Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga  also known as El Pez, Pescado, and Mojarra  and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga  also known as El Fresa, El Feyo, and La Fruta  are both fugitives. There is a $5 million bounty for the arrest of El Pez and a $3 million bounty for the arrest of his brother.

DEA

DEA

The cartel trackers suggested that the MQ-9 flight could be related to LNFM.

Based on geolocation work we have done utilizing open source materials, this territory has a heavy LNFM presence and the drone would most likely be looking at high value targets or areas of interest associated with that particular narcoterrorist organization, a spokesman for a team of open source analysts with a focus on cartels & other non-state actors under the X handle @natsecboogie told us on Wednesday.

The exact target is really hard to tell, but likely someone high up there in either cartel leadership  LNFM more likely  or someone on the most wanted list, explained Stefano Ritondale, chief intelligence officer for Artorias, an AI-driven intelligence company specializing in cartel violence in Mexico, Latin American affairs, and drug trade/organized crime.

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Once again, we have no real idea what it was collecting or even if it was collecting when it was flying circles with its transponder on near Mexico City. Given that the Guardians can stay aloft for nearly a day and half, its just as likely it was holding in that area before shutting off its transponder and heading to its sensitive collection area or areas. Its also possible it was staging to support a larger multi-national, multi-agency operation and flew that area at a certain time.

The MQ-9 flew more than 800 miles from its launch point into Mexican airspace. (Google Earth)

While this flight is uncommon, it would not be the first time MQ-9s have flown in Mexican airspace in cooperation with that nations government.

CBP also uses Predator B aircraft to perform bi-national law enforcement operations with the government of Mexico through coordination at the Information Analysis Center located at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico, according to a 2017 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), a Congressional watchdog. We found that 7 percent of Predator B flight hours from fiscal years 2013 through 2016 were in foreign airspace located in Mexico or 1,615 flight hours.

Todays flight was made by tail number CBP113, according to FlightRadar24. The aircraft has been referred to in the past as a Guardian Maritime Mission version of the Q-9 family. It features a Raytheon SeaVue multi-mode radar under the central fuselage, and includes surface search and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery modes. SAR images are highly detailed maps of the surface below, which can be produced day or night, despite any cloud cover, smoke, or dust. Advanced radars of this type can also track moving vehicles on the ground. Guardian Maritime Mission drones also have an MTS electro-optical and infrared sensor ball under the nose, as well as data links capable of sending imagery and radar tracks back to control stations on the ground in near real-time.

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There are three separate MQ-9 variants flying for CBP today, including the Guardian Maritime Mission variant. Beyond internal radar and electro-optical systems, they can also carry a wide array of missionized podded systems. None of them are armed or employ kinetic effects. You can read more these drones in this previous feature.

CBP

As we previously wrote, the CIA is also reportedly flying unarmed MQ-9 Reapers over or very near Mexico to snoop on drug cartels. The overflights are said to have built off a covert CIA drone surveillance program that began under Biden, focused on finding labs producing the narcotic Fentanyl inside Mexico. We reached out to the CIA for comment.

USAF MQ-9s were not on a list of aerial assets being used by NORTHCOM to collect against cartels for the border mission. NORTHCOM oversees the U.S. military response on the southern border.

We do not release specific information regarding ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) missions, NORTHCOM told us. However, the Department of Defense employs AISR (aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) capabilities in support of the southern border mission. To date, there have been a total of 347 ISR missions conducted in support of southern border operations utilizing various platforms. Various aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft from the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force are supporting USNORTHCOMs southern border mission. Air Force AISR platforms include the U-2 Dragon Lady, RC-135 Rivet Joint, and the RQ-4 Global Hawk. The U.S. Army ISR asset is the MQ-1 Gray Eagle.

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NORTHCOM declined to say if any of these missions flew over Mexico.

You can read more about the Dragon Lady and Rivet Joint flights along the border in our story on the subject here and here.

While MQ-9s are not on its list, NORTHCOM collects data from a wide array of sources.

We recently established the Joint Intelligence Task Force Southern Border, which is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, along with  at a CBP facility, NORTHCOM commander Gen. Gregory M. Guillot testified earlier this year before Congress. And what we do is we bring in interagency, DOD and Intel community feeds and fuse it and redistribute that information from there. That has led to unparalleled sharing of intelligence data on this mission set that used to be available but not all processed from one location.

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Todays MQ-9 flight was launched a week after The New York Times reported that Trump secretly signed a directive to the Pentagon to begin using military force against certain Latin American drug cartels that his administration has deemed terrorist organizations, according to people familiar with the matter.

Considered the administrations most aggressive step so far in its campaign against cartels, the order provides an official basis for the possibility of direct military operations at sea and on foreign soil against cartels, the publication reported. U.S. military officials have started drawing up options for how the military could go after the groups, the people familiar with the conversations said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive internal deliberations.

Breaking News: President Trump has secretly signed a directive to the Pentagon to begin using military force against certain Latin American drug cartels. https://t.co/lpL8fm4b1d  New York Times World (@nytimesworld) August 8, 2025

The Times does not offer specifics about what actions the military may take against the cartels, however we previously discussed at length what some of those options might be. ISR flights would be launched as part of any operations.

Seeing this flight show up on FlightRadar24 validated what cartel trackers have thought about these drones.

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We have seen CBP drones magically appear in the Gulf of Mexico, so I wouldnt consider this new, but its the first definitive proof we have them operating in Mexico, Ritondale told us.

Though the MQ-9 let its location be known for hours, given the secret nature of these operations, we may never learn its true mission.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
On Wednesday, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned four Mexican individuals and 13 companies linked to timeshare fraud schemes run by the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG).

The action targets operations based in Puerto Vallarta that prey on elderly Americans.

CJNG, designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, has expanded beyond drug trafficking to generate revenue through elaborate timeshare scams that have cost U.S. victims nearly $300 million since 2019.

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We are coming for terrorist drug cartels like Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion that are flooding our country with fentanyl, said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. These cartels continue to create new ways to generate revenue to fuel their terrorist operations. At President Trumps direction, we will continue our effort to completely eradicate the cartels ability to generate revenue, including their efforts to prey on elderly Americans through timeshare fraud.

The scams follow a devastating pattern. Cartel-run call centers obtain timeshare owner information from resort insiders, then contact victims claiming to be brokers or attorneys.

They promise to sell timeshares or secure rental income but demand upfront fees and taxes that victims wire to Mexican bank accounts. The promised money supposedly owed to the owners never materializes, yet victims are pressed for additional payments.

Some schemes stretch for years. Re-victimization scams follow, with fraudsters impersonating law firms offering to recover losses or government officials threatening imprisonment without payment of fines.

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The FBI received nearly 900 timeshare fraud complaints in 2024 alone, reporting losses exceeding $50 million. Officials believe actual losses are far higher since most victims dont report due to embarrassment, among other reasons.

CJNG seized control of Puerto Vallartas timeshare fraud operations around 2012. The cartel employs English-fluent telemarketers and accountants to execute complex schemes targeting older Americans life savings.

Three senior CJNG members lead the fraud operations: Julio Cesar Montero Pinzon, Carlos Andres Rivera Varela, and Francisco Javier Gudino Haro. These men also orchestrate assassinations for the cartels enforcement group using military-grade weapons.

Michael Ibarra Diaz Jr., a Puerto Vallarta businessman with 20 years in the timeshare industry, was also sanctioned. His network includes 13 companies spanning real estate, travel agencies, tour operators, and accounting firms.

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Five companies explicitly acknowledge timeshare involvement: Akali Realtors, Centro Mediador De La Costa, Corporativo Integral De La Costa, Corporativo Costa Norte, and Sunmex Travel. Others mask their activities behind tourism and real estate fronts.

The Treasurys action freezes all U.S. property belonging to the designated individuals and companies. American citizens are prohibited from conducting transactions with them.

Financial institutions risk secondary sanctions for knowingly facilitating transactions with the sanctioned parties. The Treasury can prohibit foreign banks from maintaining U.S. correspondent accounts if they assist designated persons.

This marks the Treasurys fifth action against CJNG timeshare fraud, bringing total designations to over 70 individuals and entities. Previous sanctions occurred in March 2023, April 2023, November 2023, and July 2024.

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CJNG ranks among the worlds most powerful cartels. The group attacks Mexican military and police with military weapons, drops explosives from drones, and executes defiant recruits.

Beyond drug trafficking, CJNG generates revenue through fuel theft, extortion, and human smuggling. Treasury continues targeting these diverse income streams alongside the FBI, DEA, and Mexican financial intelligence partners.

Officials urge timeshare owners to exercise caution. Unsolicited purchase offers that seem too good to be true probably are fraudulent attempts to steal money.

Victims should file complaints at ic3.gov. Elderly victims can call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 for assistance and resources.
The U.S. Supreme Court, on Oct. 9, 2024. (Photo by Jane Norman/States Newsroom)

The U.S. Supreme Court has set the date it will hear new arguments in a Louisiana case that could have ripple effects for congressional redistricting around the country.

The court will hear debate Oct. 15 in Callais v. Louisiana after asking both sides to file new briefs in response to its latest question: Could a state violate the 14th or 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution when it draws election maps to comply with the Voting Rights Act?

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The Callias case was filed by a group of non-Black voters in Louisiana after the legislature updated the states six congressional districts last year to carve out a second U.S. House seat to give a minority candidate a better chance of being elected. The 6th Congressional District was reconfigured to stretch from Baton Rouge to Shreveport, zig-zagging along the way to pick up pockets of Black voters.

The 14th Amendment, in part, addresses representation in Congress, while the 15th Amendment prevents citizens from being denied the right to vote based on their race. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 strengthened provisions in these amendments, although the more conservative makeup of the Supreme Court over the past decade has peeled back some of those protections.

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In the Callais case, justices are drilling down on Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which prohibits voting laws and procedures that discriminate on the basis of race, color or membership in a language minority group.

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Republican leaders in the legislature have said politics, not race, were the predominant influence on how the boundaries of their congressional map were drawn. Sen. Glen Womack, R-Harrisonburg, who authored the law that created the new districts, said its lines were specifically drawn to protect U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and House Speaker Mike Johnson  all Republicans.

To craft another Black majority district, much of the old 6th District in and around Baton Rouge was redrawn to fall within Letlows 5th District. That led to the ouster of 6th District Congressman Garret Graves, who had aligned himself against the states most powerful Republicans.

When Scalise was nominated for U.S. House speaker in the fall of 2023, Graves declined to support him out of loyalty to Kevin McCarthy, who had been removed from the post. In the Louisiana governors race that year, Graves endorsed longtime friend Stephen Waguespack, putting him at odds with the frontrunner and eventual winner, Jeff Landry.

It was Landry, as the new governor in January 2024, who called the legislature into special session to revise the states congressional districts. As attorney general, his office defended a map lawmakers approved in February 2022 with a single Black-majority U.S. House seat despite the 2020 census showing Louisianas Black population had reached nearly one-third. Black voters challenged the map in federal court, and it was ruled unconstitutional.

State lawmakers refused to budge, taking no action to update congressional districts during a second redistricting session in June 2022. This kept the lawsuit from earlier in the year, Robinson v. Ardoin, in play.

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In October 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the Alabama Legislature had to redo a map it approved with just one majority-minority district out of seven. Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh joined the courts liberals in determining the Alabama map violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.

Lawmakers had to add a second Black district in Alabama, which has a smaller share of Black voters in Louisiana. The decision was considered a possible harbinger for Callais until the Supreme Court issued an order Aug. 1, seeking parties to submit briefs in response to its question about the 14th and 15th amendments.

Attorney General Liz Murrill has until Aug. 27 to file her answers, while the plaintiffs have until Sept. 17. A ruling in the case isnt expected until next spring.

Murrill has offered no comments on the Callais case since the Supreme Courts Aug. 1 order, only saying in a statement Tuesday she will make herself available for interviews after the state files its brief. Louisiana Solicitor General Ben Aguinaga will argue on behalf of the state, she added.

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At the courts initial hearing on Callais in March, Aguinaga told justices that Louisianas congressional map was created in response to federal court rulings that required the addition of a second majority-Black district.

He also mentioned that the state feels Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional, but state lawmakers opted to redraw its maps because Louisiana had lost prior court cases making that same argument.

The Louisiana case has been pushed to backburner news status as redistricting showdowns in other states have gained prominence. Mid-decade congressional map changes are rare, but Republican governors loyal to President Donald Trump are aggressively pushing their GOP-majority legislatures to add red U.S. House seats to offset possible losses in next years mid-term elections. Democratic state leaders are positioning themselves for countermoves.

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An American teenager was detained on an Antarctic island while attempting to pilot his small plane to every continent, said Chilean authorities, who have charged him for allegedly submitting a false flight plan. The 19-year-old pilot, Ethan Guo, denies the accusation and says the month-and-a-half-long ordeal is taking a toll on his health.

Guo gained an online following by documenting his trip around the world, which lasted well over 100 days and had already taken him to six continents prior to the Antarctic voyage, according to his website and social media posts.

Guo said he hoped to become the first pilot to complete a solo flight across all seven continents in a small Cessna, a feat that simultaneously aims to raise $1 million for cancer research through St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. On his site, the teen cites his cousin's 2021 cancer diagnosis as his source of inspiration.

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Guo's latest Instagram posts chronicled part of his path over southeastern Asia. Authorities in South America say he went on to traverse the Pacific Ocean, ending up in Chile before making his way toward Antarctica.

Snow covers the landscape at King George Island, South Shetlands, Antarctica, on Nov. 25, 2023. / Credit: Jorge Saenz / AP

According to Cristian Cristoso Rifo, the regional prosecutor of Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, Guo departed from the airport in the city of Punta Arenas, near the southernmost point of Chile, and proceeded to conduct an unauthorized flight to King George Island. Located off the Atlantic coast, the island is claimed by Chile as part of its Atlantic territory.

The young pilot landed his plane at the island's Teniente R. Marsh Airport, where he was detained, Cristoso said in a video statement shared on social media on Monday. He said Guo submitted a flight plan that indicated his plans to fly over Punta Arenas, but not farther than that.

In a statement provided to CBS News, attorneys for Guo say those accusations are unfounded. "Documentary evidence and audio recordings provided to the prosecutor definitively show that Mr. Guo's original destination was Ushuaia, Argentina," they write.

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But they say due to "bureaucratic confusion," Chilean officials told him to "circle in darkness over Tierra del Fuego before proceeding to Ushuaia at sunrise"  and that's when he ran into dangerous flight conditions.

"He encountered instrument failures and heavy, unreported icing conditions caused by high cloud cover over the Andes, creating an imminent risk of a crash. To avert disaster, he diverted over the ocean. Once over the ocean, he experienced engine-related issues, likely to due to sudden, weather-related pressure changes."

They say he then requested and received permission to land at the Marsh base from a high-ranking Chilean aviation official via WhatsApp.

The prosecutor's office charged Guo for violating two articles of the Chilean Aeronautical Code, including one that calls for either short-term imprisonment or a fine brought down on anyone who lands in Chilean territory without legitimate authorization.

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The prosecutor said that in addition to his alleged breaches of the aeronautical code, Guo violated "multiple national and international" rules governing access to Antarctica and the routes taken to get there. His unauthorized flight also posed safety risks for air traffic to the frozen continent, Cristoso added.

The statement from Guo's representatives blames prosecutors for refusing to acknowledge "clear evidence" exonerating him, "resulting in his de facto confinement on the island for a month and a half."

They say stress of the ordeal has caused "severe deterioration in his health," including loss of more than 40 pounds and a diagnosis with pericarditis, inflammation of tissue around the heart.

"While he is grateful for efforts to secure him passage on a boat, he is frustrated that there is no plan for his plane, preventing

him from continuing his charitable mission to raise funds for St. Jude," they write.

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President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane

Could Tropical Storm Erin become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025?
If youre traveling to Mexico anytime soon, you might want to take extra precautions before you go, and take note that there are several areas of the country where you shouldnt travel.

The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory to Mexico, warning tourists to exercise increased caution in the country due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping.

The agency also warned tourists to avoid traveling in six areas, including the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas, due to a combination of crime, terrorism and kidnapping from cartels, terrorist groups, gangs and other criminal organizations, according to the advisory.

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U.S. government employees are required to not travel between cities after dark, avoid waving down taxis in the street, rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify, avoid traveling alone and dont drive between Mexican border cities. The State Department advises U.S. citizens to do the same.

Here is what you need to know about the travel advisory.

What does the latest travel advisory to Mexico?

Item Detail Start Date Aug. 12, 2025 Whats changing Updated travel advisory warning tourists to exercise increased caution in the country due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping and avoid traveling in six areas, including the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas What will happen? Travelers are strongly encouraged to not travel between cities after dark, avoid waving down taxis in the street, rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify, avoid traveling alone and dont drive between Mexican border cities. Who will it affect? Travelers to Mexico and U.S. government employees

The State Department gave a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory to Mexico due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping nationwide.

However, there are several areas ranging from Level 1 to Level 4 travel advisories throughout the country.

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The regions of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas are on the State Departments highest travel advisory, Level 4, due to a combination of crime, terrorism and kidnapping from cartels, terrorist groups, gangs and other criminal organizations.

Meanwhile, people should reconsider travel to the following eight states that are within a Level 3 zone due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping:

Baja California

Chiapas

Chihuahua

Coahuila

Guanajuato

Jalisco

Morelos

Sonora

Sixteen states fall within a Level 2 advisory urging travelers to exercise increased caution, and they include:

Aguascalientes

Baja California Sur

Durango

Hidalgo

Mexico City

State of Mexico

Nayarit

Nuevo Leon

Oaxaca

Pueblo

Queretaro

Quintana Roo

San Luis Potosi

Tabasco

Tlaxcala

Veracruz

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Finally, two states  Campeche and Yucatan  fall under the Level 1 advisory urging American tourists to exercise normal precautions.

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 Mexico do in light of this travel advisory?

Travelers to Mexico should heed the following instructions for their safety:

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Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.

If you come across a road checkpoint, you should comply.

Buy travel insuranc that includes evacuation assistance, medical insurance and trip cancelation coverage before arriving in Mexico.

Review the country security report for Mexico.

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.
Various newspapers are pictured. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  The future of University of Central Oklahomas student newspaper, The Vista, is unclear following a decision to immediately end the print publication.

The Vista was established in 1903 and is distributed on the Edmond campus for free. This fall will mark the first semester the publication wont print in 122 years, said Joe Hight, interim chair of the Student Media Advisory Board and UCOs journalism ethics chair.

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Printing newspapers is still a viable learning tool for journalism students, he said. The Vista will continue to publish stories online, but Hight said theres no strategy in place for the publication to immediately go all digital.

I use digital products myself all the time, but there still is value in using the print product as a learning tool, Hight said. That its a part of history. That once you put something down in print, its there to be referred back many decades from now. It cant be changed or altered or anything like that.

With a need to cut the student media budget by $18,000, the Student Media Advisory Board recommended reducing The Vistas print publication to twice a month and using funds from the Dennie Hall Endowment Fund to supplement additional publications, Hight said. Those funding the endowment specified the money be used for The Vista, including print operations, he said.

The boards decision followed lots of research and hearing from students, including staff members of The Vista, Hight said.

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Despite the recommendation, Hight said Elizabeth Maier, dean of UCOs liberal arts college, made the call to cease printing The Vista immediately. Maier cited a mandate from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Regional University System of Oklahoma to be more efficient with resources, he said.

Maier did not immediately return requests for comment. It was not clear which directive she was referring to.

The Vista will transition to an online digital publication this fall semester, which begins Monday, said Adrienne Nobles, a spokesperson for UCO, in a statement Wednesday.

A sign marks the Mass Communication building at the University of Central Oklahoma on Aug. 27, 2024. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

Nobles said The Vista previously had an online digital edition, in addition to print.

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This move maximizes university resources and aligns with industry trends and expectations, she said. UCO will continue meeting students where they are, offering a relevant, high-quality educational experience focused on career readiness.

Hight said The Vistas stories are currently published online under UCentrals domain, UCOs student media network. But without its own website, he said theres concern The Vista name will be lost with all branding instead tied to UCentral.

The Student Media Advisory Board is scheduled to meet Thursday afternoon on UCOs Edmond campus. At the meeting, Hight said he will read a statement from the dean, emails from concerned students and faculty, and discuss the future of The Vistas operations and the elimination of the publications campus news racks that were removed this summer.

In recent years, other student media publications have also ceased print editions but continued digital publications.

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University of Oklahomas student run OU Daily stopped printing its weekly newspaper in 2022.

The Maneater, University of Missouris student newspaper, stopped printing in 2023.

Oklahoma State Universitys The OColly continues to print once a week and publishes online.

Mark Thomas, Oklahoma Press Association executive vice president, said printing is a small expense compared to a universitys total expenditures.

The estimated cost to print The Vista for a year is around $12,000, according to an editorial in the publication.

If they say its the money, lets open the expenditures of the entire university and lets look at how theyre spending the money, Thomas said.

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But if the decision were instead based on the viewpoints published in student media, it would be difficult for the university to overcome, he said.

Pressure on student journalists to be a mouthpiece for the administration doesnt silence them, Thomas said, because students will still find a way to be heard.

No one contests that digital publications are an important tool and skill, especially for breaking news, he said.

But there are certain things that you want to have archived and to live on for a long time, Thomas said. And so that kind of a unilateral mandate to come down and say, Were just not going to print anything anymore, says that they really dont want to have an archive that cant be changed.

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Editors note: This story was updated 12:45 p.m. Aug. 14 to remove an incorrect reference to Texas A&Ms student newspaper. It is still printing.

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The Delhi Police Control Room (PCR) received a call from Shivam Sharma at 10:53 PM on Tuesday, alleging that there was firing near the Taj enclave, Geeta Colony, by three persons, informed the Delhi Police to ANI on Wedneday. "Shivam Sharma, a resident of Old Arjun Nagar, Jagat Puri, has alleged that Sheetal and her husband, Sonu, residents of Kundan Nagar, Delhi, have borrowed money and are not returning," informed the Delhi Police. At around 10:30 PM on Tuesday, Shivam and his friend Jatin Nagpal approached the Taj Enclave to discuss the borrowed money matter with Sheetal and Sonu. However, they had some heated arguments near Jagatpuri Red Light. Shadab, Harshu, and Raman, alleged associates of Sheetal and Sonu, arrived near Taj Enclave, and a scuffle ensued amongst Shadab, Harshu, Raman and Shivam. Allegedly, Shadab has fired two rounds at Shivam, but Shivam saved himself and reported the matter to the police. The complainant, Shivam Sharma, is also found to be previously involved in a case under Section 307 IPC, attempt to murder. Delhi Police said that appropriate action is being taken in the matter. Meanwhile, in a significant breakthrough in the fight against narcotics, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Delhi Police's Crime Branch has dismantled an inter-state heroin trafficking syndicate operating in Delhi-NCR. Two suspects, including a woman alleged to be the kingpin, have been arrested, and 809 grams of high-grade heroin valued at approximately Rs 80 lakh in the international market have been seized. Police also recovered Rs 3,300 in cash, believed to be proceeds of crime, and three mobile phones. According to officials, the operation was part of the ongoing nationwide campaign against drugs, which the Delhi Police is intensifying through targeted raids and sustained surveillance. Acting on intelligence inputs, ANTF teams first apprehended a man identified as Kashim (36), a sixth-class dropout and former hardware shop worker, from Delhi with 789 grams of heroin. A case under Section 21(c) of the NDPS Act was registered at the Crime Branch police station. During interrogation, Kashim allegedly disclosed that he was working for Bindu Devi (48), a known drug trafficker from New Seemapuri Jhuggi. Police said Bindu was operating through her absconding son-in-law, identified as Arif alias Samir. Based on this lead and technical surveillance, police traced Bindu to a rented house in Village Saini Kheda near Signature Tower in Gurugram, Haryana, and arrested her on August 3. (ANI)
By Elias Biryabarema

KAMPALA (Reuters) -Uganda's biggest opposition party on Wednesday filed a case in the constitutional court to nullify a newly enacted law that reinstated the right of military tribunals to try civilians, a lawyer and party official said.

The Supreme Court proscribed the prosecution of civilians in the tribunals in January, saying they lacked legal competence to conduct criminal trials in a fair and impartial manner.

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Local and international rights campaigners have long accused Uganda's government of using military courts to pursue political opponents of President Yoweri Museveni, 80, who has been in power for almost 40 years.

His aides have denied this, saying only civilians who use guns for political violence are prosecuted in such tribunals.

George Musisi, lawyer for the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), said the party had filed a petition to quash the new law which parliament passed in May and Museveni signed a month later.

"They violated all the processes that they should follow while passing laws," NUP's secretary general Lewis Rubongoya told reporters outside court, citing a lack of sufficient public consultation.

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Many supporters and leaders of NUP, including pop star-turned politician Bobi Wine who is preparing to challenge Museveni in next year's election, have previously been charged or prosecuted by military tribunals.

After Museveni signed the law, the then-army spokesperson, Chris Magezi praised it, saying it would "deter the formation of militant political groups" while Uganda's military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also Museveni's son, congratulated lawmakers for passing the law.

The Supreme Court verdict forced authorities to transfer the military trial of a major opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, for alleged offences including treason, to a civilian court.

Besigye is still in detention, almost nine months after he was detained and has been repeatedly denied bail.

(Reporting by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by George Obulutsa, Ammu Kannampilly, Alexandra Hudson)
LONDON (Reuters) -British police have been told they can release details of a suspect's ethnicity and nationality in high-profile and sensitive cases to prevent false information being spread on social media.

Last year, Britain was rocked by days of rioting after the murder of three young girls in Southport after misinformation spread online that the teenage suspect was an Islamist migrant.

The issue has remained highly contentious since, with the populist Reform UK party, which is leading in opinion polls, last week accusing police of covering up the immigration status of suspects involved in the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in central England.

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That incident had led to anti-immigration protests after the Reform leader of the local council said the suspects were asylum seekers, while police said they could not give out such information because of existing guidance which limited details that could be shared to ensure people received a fair trial.

Under new guidelines from the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing, police forces will now be encouraged to disclose details "to reduce the risk to public safety" and where misinformation was being spread.

"We have to make sure our processes are fit for purpose in an age of social media speculation and where information can travel incredibly quickly across a wide range of channels," said Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya.

"Disinformation and incorrect narratives can take hold in a vacuum. It is good police work for us to fill this vacuum with the facts about issues of wider public interest."

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A Home Office (interior ministry) spokesperson said they supported the change and would authorise the release of any relevant immigration information in future cases where it was appropriate.

(Reporting by Michael HoldenEditing by Alexandra Hudson)
LONDON (Reuters) -British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders that support for Ukraine was unwavering and that there should be robust security guarantees as part of any peace deal with Russia.

"The Prime Minister was clear that our support for Ukraine is unwavering - international borders must not be changed by force and Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to defend its territorial integrity as part of any deal," a readout of a call from Starmer's Downing Street office said.

The call, which also included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Finland, NATO and the European Union, comes ahead of a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday.

(Reporting by William James, writing by Sachin Ravikumar, editing by Catarina Demony)
Since the start of the full-scale war, 87 Russian service personnel have been served with notices of suspicion for committing sexual violence in the occupied territories of Kyiv, Chernihiv, Kherson, Kharkiv and Mykolaiv oblasts, as well as in Russia.

Source: Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office in response to a request from Ukrainska Pravda.Zhyttia (Life)

Details: Prosecutors have referred 45 indictments against 58 individuals to court. At present, courts have delivered 12 verdicts against 19 individuals, all of whom were sentenced to prison time. All proceedings were conducted in absentia.

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Twelve defendants were sentenced to 12 years in prison, two received 10- and 11-year sentences respectively, and five were sentenced to 15 years.

"All verdicts were delivered under the procedure of special trial in absentia," the Office of the Prosecutor General explained.

Since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, prosecutors have recorded 372 incidents of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). These are 136 cases against men, 236 against women, 19 against underage girls and one against an underage boy.

The victims have suffered rape, mutilation or violence to the genitals, forced nudity, threats and attempted rape, coercion to witness sexual abuse of loved ones, among other crimes.

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The largest number of CRSV cases has been recorded in Kherson Oblast  116, Donetsk Oblast  86, and Kyiv Oblast  60.

Other regions where CRSV cases have been recorded include:

Kharkiv Oblast  46;

Zaporizhzhia Oblast  26;

Mykolaiv Oblast  11;

Luhansk Oblast  9;

Chernihiv Oblast  8;

Odesa Oblast  6;

Sumy Oblast  3;

Autonomous Republic of Crimea  1.

"This statistical information refers exclusively to crimes committed against the civilian population. Data regarding servicemen are not included in this statistic and will not be made public until the end of martial law," the Office of the Prosecutor General stated.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Since US President Donald Trump announced he will meet Vladimir Putin in Alaska, European leaders have been on edge. Although Trump has lately signaled support for Ukraine, Europe fears that Putin, a former KGB spy, will be able to bring the US president back round to seeing the war on his terms.

Desperate to get Trumps ear one last time, European leaders on Wednesday held a virtual summit with the US president, in what resembled a pre-match pep talk before he sits one-on-one with Putin on Friday.

The Europeans struck a tentatively upbeat note after the meeting, claiming that Trump had been sympathetic to their calls for an immediate ceasefire, and that Ukraine must have a seat at the table in future negotiations.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said those on the call agreed on five common principles. First, that nothing about Ukraine should be discussed without Ukraine. Second, that preparations should begin for a joint summit of Ukraine, Russia and the US. Third, that Russia should agree to a ceasefire before peace talks begin in earnest.

Fourth, that Ukraine should receive security guarantees  which Zelensky said Trump supported. Russia cannot have a veto over Ukraines European and NATO prospects, Zelensky said. And Russia must face fresh sanctions if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska. Peace talks must be combined with appropriate pressure on Russia, he stressed.

Two European diplomats familiar with the virtual summit told CNN that, during the call, Trump seemed to say he would push for an unconditional ceasefire in his meeting with Putin, saying he believed this would be a show of goodwill from Russia. Trump also said that the issue of Ukrainian territory is not for him to negotiate, the sources said.

In his public comments, Trump  who has veered from praising Putin to pillorying him  struck a harsh tone once more, saying Russia will face very severe consequences if its president does not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine during Fridays summit.

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Trump told reporters that if the summit goes well, a follow-up meeting between Putin and Zelensky could happen almost immediately afterward.

Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting which will be more productive than the first. Because the first is: Im going to find out where we are, what were doing, Trump said during an appearance at the Kennedy Center.

Merz said Europe made it clear to Trump that Ukraine must attend the next high-level meeeting. - Florian Gaertner/Photothek/Getty Images

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who convened Wednesdays call, said that the Europeans made it clear that Ukraine must be at the table for the next meeting.

We want things to go in the right sequence: We want a ceasefire at the very beginning, and then a framework agreement must be drawn up, Merz said at a press conference with Zelensky.

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Although Trump said bluntly on Monday that therell be some land swapping going on, Merz stressed that legal recognition of Ukrainian territory is not up for discussion.

During a meeting in Moscow last week with Witkoff, Putin proposed a plan that would require Ukraine to cede the eastern Donbas region, most of which is occupied, in exchange for a ceasefire, according to US officials. The exact details of the plan have been shrouded in confusion since reports of it first emerged.

Threat is on

Last week, Trump had given Putin the deadline of August 8 to agree to a ceasefire or face punishing new sanctions on its shadow fleet, which has enabled Moscow to circumvent sanctions on its oil exports and finance its war. After the deadline ended without consequence, Trump announced the summit with Putin this Friday.

Putin has long tried to shrug off the effect of sanctions. But Zelensky said Wednesday that the Russian leader was bluffing. Sanctions are hitting Russias war economy hard, he said after the call with Trump. Putin cant fool anyone.

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A European official familiar with the call said that they got the impression the threat is on of secondary sanctions against Russia if the upcoming Alaska talks prove fruitless.

It is obvious that the India sanctions had an effect, the official said, referring to Trumps pledge of issuing a 25% additional tariff on India for buying Russian oil. That tariff is expected to go into effect in the weeks ahead.

Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, told CNN that Zelensky is urging Trump to use the stick he wields over Russia.

The key issue is the stick that President Trump allegedly has. This could be either more economic sanctions (on Russia), or more military support to Ukraine, Gabuev said. Thats where President Zelensky wants to be optimistic that the Russian economy is crumbling.

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But Ukraine is facing its own pressures, he said. This week, small groups of Russian troops pierced parts of Ukraines increasingly porous front lines in the eastern Donetsk region, to the alarm of Ukrainian officials and military bloggers. If Russias economy is creaking, so is Ukraines front line, Gabuev said.

The timeline here is really crucial, he added. Putin is confident that he has another 12 to 18 months, and that Ukraine doesnt have that.

CNNs Kylie Atwood, Jennifer Hansler, Seb Shukla, Catherine Nicholls, Saskya Vandoorne, Nick Paton Walsh and Bianna Golodryga contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Ukraine is open to considering a ceasefire in the sky with Russia, even though Moscow has so far rejected similar scenarios, presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said in an interview with Corriere della Sera published on Aug. 12.

The comments come a few days before a high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15, part of Washington's efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

"Russia is unlikely to abandon the use of strategic aviation or large-scale drone deployments," Podolyak told the Italian newspaper when asked about a possible aerial truce.

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"However, Ukraine is ready to discuss and consider this scenario, and sees it as the initial phase in reaching realistic negotiating positions."

Discussions about a mutual halt on aerial strikes have emerged on several occasions during the full-scale war.

Podolyak noted that a ceasefire in the sky would also be part of a comprehensive truce previously proposed by Washington. In March, Ukraine supported a U.S. proposal for a full 30-day truce during talks in Saudi Arabia.

Moscow has repeatedly refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire, only declaring temporary truces on several occasions, which Ukraine dismissed as a sham.

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As Trump renewed his diplomatic push to broker a peace deal, Bloomberg reported on Aug. 5 that the Kremlin is weighing a proposal to pause its long-range strike campaign, even as it remains committed to continuing ground offensives.

No such offer has been publicly announced. Earlier in the week, a source close to Ukraine's Presidential Office told the Kyiv Independent that the claim was likely false and spread by Russia.

Throughout the full-scale war, Russia has battered Ukraine with missile attacks and drones, inflicting heavy civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

In turn, Ukraine has launched a campaign of long-range drone attacks against Russian energy facilities and military sites deep in the rear.

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Read also: Zelensky arrives in Berlin to meet German chancellor ahead of call with Trump, European leaders

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian drones struck a major oil pumping station in Russia's Bryansk Oblast overnight on Aug. 13, according to the Ukrainian military and the Kyiv Independent's source in the military intelligence agency (HUR).

The news comes as Ukraine escalates long-range drone strikes against Russian oil facilities, with the Russian oil industry being a key source of revenue that helps fund Moscow's aggression in Ukraine.

Ukrainian drones targeted the Unecha oil pumping station, part of the Transneft Druzhba pipeline network, sparking a large fire, the intelligence source told the Kyiv Independent.

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The facility is one of the largest nodes in the Druzhba system, which spans about 9,000 kilometers (5,600 miles) and is used to supply Russia's defense industry. The operation was carried out in coordination with Ukraine's Armed Forces, the source said.

Ukraine's General Staff separately confirmed the attack, saying the Unecha station facilitates the transport for two pipelines with an annual capacity of 60 million metric tons.

"Damage and a large fire were recorded in the area of the support pumping station building," the military said, adding that explosions near oil tanks were also reported.

Unecha lies roughly 60 kilometers (35 miles) from the Russia-Ukraine border.

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Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 46 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones across multiple regions overnight.

According to the ministry, 15 drones were downed over Bryansk Oblast, 11 over Volgograd Oblast, seven over Rostov Oblast, five over Krasnodar Krai, two each over the Belgorod and Voronezh oblasts, two over Russian-occupied Crimea, and two over the Sea of Azov.

In Krasnodar Krai, drone debris fell on the territory of a refinery in Slavyansk-on-Kuban, igniting a truck, regional authorities said. There were no casualties reported.

Independent Russian outlet Astra reported, citing local residents, that other suspected strikes occurred near oil facilities, including in Volgograd. Debris from a drone fell onto the roof of a 16-story apartment building in Volgograd, prompting an evacuation, Astra reported.

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The building is located in a district where the Lukoil-Volgogradneftepererabotka, one of Russia's largest oil refineries, has previously been targeted.

In Belgorod, a civilian facility was hit by a Ukrainian drone, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed. No casualties were reported. The blast reportedly caused a fire, damaged windows, and damaged the building's facade.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

Read also: Why is Russia so obsessed with Alaska?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
"Operation Spiderweb" was built off knowledge of drug cartel operations, said the head of Ukraine's SBU.

In a new interview, Vasyl Malyuk said the smuggling relied on corrupt customs officials in Russia.

He said his team then set up a fake company in Russia to truck the drones to their targets.

The architects behind Ukraine's audacious "Operation Spiderweb" attack studied drug cartels to plan how to smuggle drones into Russia, Kyiv's security service chief said.

Vasyl Malyuk, head of Ukraine's internal security service and widely hailed as a driving force in the June attack, said in an interview aired on Tuesday that his team leveraged its experience battling international crime for the complex strike.

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"Operation Spiderweb" involved Ukraine sneaking hundreds of military quadcopters deep behind Russian lines, transporting the drones via wooden house-like structures mounted on trucks. These trucks were brought to four airbases, where the drones were then launched to wreak destruction on strategic bombers and early warning and control planes there.

"Speaking of logistics," Malyuk told Ukrainian TV channel My-Ukrainia, "I should note that we drew on our experience in fighting transnational crime, when we studied in detail how international drug cartels secretly deliver various prohibited substances to different corners of the world without detection by customs and border authorities."

The security service head alluded to an earlier covert attack that Ukraine carried out in October 2022, when its forces severely damaged a Russian-controlled bridge in Crimea with a truck filled with explosives.

"If you read between the lines and look at it professionally, I think many have noticed certain parallels between the first strike on the Crimea bridge," Malyuk said.

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He said that in both situations, Ukraine didn't employ smugglers but relied on customs officials in Russia.

"Who are, by their nature, very corrupt," Malyuk said. "At a certain stage, they actually played to our advantage in delivering the cabins I mentioned."

A fake company with drivers in the dark

Malyuk said that Ukraine, through its agents in Russia, created a logistics company that purchased five vehicles and rented warehouse space for the operation.

One of these warehouses was even in the same city block as Russia's Federal Security Service headquarters in the Chelyabinsk region, the security service chief said.

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Malyuk added that the shell logistics company hired Russian citizens as truck drivers, sending them on multiple regular delivery jobs to avoid suspicion before springing the attack.

Ukraine struck aircraft like this Tu-95 "Bear" bomber at air bases across Russia on June 1. EYEPRESS via Reuters Connect

The security service chief said these drivers were only told to deliver the cabins near the airbases, whereupon a customer was meant to arrive and pay for them.

The drivers themselves were left in the dark, Malyuk added.

The security chief said that when one of the drivers inadvertently saw the drones inside one cabin, Ukrainian agents told him the systems were hunting tools for observing animals.

"In reality, they committed no illegal acts, and there was no intent in their actions," Malyuk said.

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The SBU chief also said that his team wanted to launch the attack in May but hit several delays, including the drivers getting drunk during the Easter holiday season.

According to Malyuk, each truck-mounted cabin included solar panels and a battery to keep the drones charged and ready for deployment in cold weather; the quadcopters were launched in temperatures as low as 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

"But at the same time, it created additional difficulties in bringing these cabins into the territory of the Russian Federation, because these types of goods simply can't be taken there, since Russia is under sanctions," Malyuk.

The security service chief declined to share further details about the smuggling process, but said his team went "through seven circles of hell."

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He added that Ukraine had designed attack drones specifically for "Operation Spiderweb" and that each could carry a payload of 1.6 kg.

Ukrainian officials have said that the attack hit about a third of Russia's strategic bomber capacity, inflicting damage on roughly $7 billion worth of equipment.

Since the attack, satellite images show that Russia has begun constructing hardened shelters for its bombers. Ukraine has, in recent months, simultaneously stepped up long-range drone assaults via fixed-wing uncrewed systems.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Key developments on Aug. 13:

Trump to push ceasefire in Alaska meeting with Putin, says Zelensky after call with US president

Ukraine strikes oil facility in western Russia in overnight drone attack, Kyiv confirms

Ukraine open to discussing aerial truce with Russia, Zelensky's aide says

Over 121,000 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine identified by media investigation

Russia aims to build 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Ukraine's military intelligence says

Germany pledges $500 million for NATO-led US weapons supply to Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump held a video call with President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders on Aug. 13, just two days before his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

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"We talked about a ceasefire today. President Trump said this is one of his priorities in conversation with President Putin," Zelensky said after the call during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

"I very much hope that some agreement will be reached, because so far all the talks held with Putin... have ended only with him increasing military presence, intensifying attacks."

The leaders of Finland, France, the U.K., Italy, Poland, the EU, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte attended the video conference.

According to Merz, European leaders are doing everything possible to steer the planned meeting between Trump and Putin "in the right direction."

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"We want the correct sequence: first, a ceasefire  this must be at the very beginning. Later, there may be a framework agreement. Third, Ukraine is ready to negotiate on talks and territorial issues, but our starting point is the contact line," the chancellor said.

"We have addressed several important points. We made it clear that Ukraine must be at the negotiating table if there is to be a follow-up meeting."

The German chancellor also pointed out that the issue of legally recognizing territories occupied in violation of international law "is not up for discussion."

Following the call, the U.S. president described the conversation as "very friendly," saying he would "rate it a 10." He also noted the possibility of a second meeting after his planned summit with Putin.

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"There's a very good chance that we're going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, because the first is that I'm going to find out where we are and what we're doing," Trump said during a visit to the Kennedy Center in Washington.

A source cited by Axios said Trump told the leaders that he could not make final decisions on territorial issues but believed "land swaps" would likely be part of any peace agreement.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

The call comes as Kyiv and its European partners seek to present a united front before the Trump-Putin Alaska summit on Aug. 15 amid concerns that the two leaders might cut a deal unfavorable to Ukraine and Europe, according to Reuters.

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Trump has described the upcoming Alaska talks as a "feel-out" meeting in his efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. He has said both Kyiv and Moscow would need to cede territory to reach a deal, a stance that has alarmed European capitals and Kyiv.

In a press conference on Aug. 11, Trump confirmed Zelensky would not attend the Alaska meeting with Putin, saying "he wasn't part of it." Trump added that he ultimately intends to bring the Ukrainian and Russian presidents together, either with him present or not.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has pledged to broker a swift peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow  efforts that quickly stalled as Russia repeatedly rejected a ceasefire and pushed maximalist demands during peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul.

This led to the U.S. president adopting a more critical tone on Russia and threatening additional sanctions, though he did not unveil any new measures by his most recent deadline to reach a peace deal on Aug. 8. U.S.-Russian diplomatic engagement gained fresh momentum last week after Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, met Putin in Moscow, leading to an agreement on the summit between leaders.

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Publicly, Putin has demanded a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership and a full Ukrainian withdrawal from partially occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, among other conditions.

Zelensky has rejected the possibility of recognizing the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territory and ceding additional land, calling for a ceasefire as the first step toward peace negotiations, a position supported by Kyiv's European allies.

The EU has publicly welcomed Trump's diplomatic efforts while signalling steadfast support for Ukraine and urging increased pressure on Moscow. Kaja Kallas, the bloc's chief diplomat, has announced that the EU would start working on the 19th package of sanctions.

Read also: Trump likes a deal. Zelensky should offer him Ukraines government tech  for free

Ukraine strikes oil facility in western Russia in overnight drone attack, Kyiv confirms

Ukrainian drones struck a major oil pumping station in Russia's Bryansk Oblast overnight on Aug. 13, according to the Ukrainian military and the Kyiv Independent's source in the military intelligence agency (HUR).

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The news comes as Ukraine escalates long-range drone strikes against Russian oil facilities, with the Russian oil industry being a key source of revenue that helps fund Moscow's aggression in Ukraine.

Ukrainian drones targeted the Unecha oil pumping station, part of the Transneft Druzhba pipeline network, sparking a large fire, the intelligence source told the Kyiv Independent.

The facility is one of the largest nodes in the Druzhba system, which spans about 9,000 kilometers (5,600 miles) and is used to supply Russia's defense industry. The operation was carried out in coordination with Ukraine's Armed Forces, the source said.

Ukraine's General Staff separately confirmed the attack, saying the Unecha station facilitates the transport for two pipelines with an annual capacity of 60 million metric tons.

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"Damage and a large fire were recorded in the area of the support pumping station building," the military said, adding that explosions near oil tanks were also reported.

Unecha lies roughly 60 kilometers (35 miles) from the Russia-Ukraine border.

Smoke seen near Unecha oil pumping station in Bryansk Oblast, Russia, on Aug, 13, 2025. (General Staff/Telegram)

Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 46 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones across multiple regions overnight.

According to the ministry, 15 drones were downed over Bryansk Oblast, 11 over Volgograd Oblast, seven over Rostov Oblast, five over Krasnodar Krai, two each over the Belgorod and Voronezh oblasts, two over Russian-occupied Crimea, and two over the Sea of Azov.

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In Krasnodar Krai, drone debris fell on the territory of a refinery in Slavyansk-on-Kuban, igniting a truck, regional authorities said. There were no casualties reported.

Independent Russian outlet Astra reported, citing local residents, that other suspected strikes occurred near oil facilities, including in Volgograd. Debris from a drone fell onto the roof of a 16-story apartment building in Volgograd, prompting an evacuation, Astra reported.

The building is located in a district where the Lukoil-Volgogradneftepererabotka, one of Russia's largest oil refineries, has previously been targeted.

In Belgorod, a civilian facility was hit by a Ukrainian drone, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed. No casualties were reported. The blast reportedly caused a fire, damaged windows, and damaged the building's facade.

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The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

Read also: Why is Russia so obsessed with Alaska?

Ukraine open to discussing aerial truce with Russia, Zelensky's aide says

Ukraine is open to considering a ceasefire in the sky with Russia, even though Moscow has so far rejected similar scenarios, presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said in an interview with Corriere della Sera published on Aug. 12.

The comments come a few days before a high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15, part of Washington's efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

"Russia is unlikely to abandon the use of strategic aviation or large-scale drone deployments," Podolyak told the Italian newspaper when asked about a possible aerial truce.

"However, Ukraine is ready to discuss and consider this scenario, and sees it as the initial phase in reaching realistic negotiating positions."

Discussions about a mutual halt on aerial strikes have emerged on several occasions during the full-scale war.

Podolyak noted that a ceasefire in the sky would also be part of a comprehensive truce previously proposed by Washington. In March, Ukraine supported a U.S. proposal for a full 30-day truce during talks in Saudi Arabia.

Moscow has repeatedly refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire, only declaring temporary truces on several occasions, which Ukraine dismissed as a sham.

As Trump renewed his diplomatic push to broker a peace deal, Bloomberg reported on Aug. 5 that the Kremlin is weighing a proposal to pause its long-range strike campaign, even as it remains committed to continuing ground offensives.

No such offer has been publicly announced. Earlier in the week, a source close to Ukraine's Presidential Office told the Kyiv Independent that the claim was likely false and spread by Russia.

Throughout the full-scale war, Russia has battered Ukraine with missile attacks and drones, inflicting heavy civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.

In turn, Ukraine has launched a campaign of long-range drone attacks against Russian energy facilities and military sites deep in the rear.

Read also: Everything we know about Russias rapid advance in Donetsk Oblast ahead of key talks with Trump

Over 121,000 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine identified by media investigation

Russian independent media outlet Mediazona, in collaboration with the BBC Russian service, has confirmed the identities of 121,507 Russian military personnel killed in Ukraine.

The publication's latest report covers the period of Feb. 24, 2022, to July 31, 2025. Since it was last updated at the start of July, 2,353 additional Russian military personnel have been confirmed killed.

The journalists note that the actual figures are likely significantly higher, as their verified information comes from public sources such as obituaries, posts by relatives, memorial community tree-plantings, regional media reports, and statements from local authorities, among other sources.

Moscow and Kyiv rarely officially report their losses. Ukraine estimates that Russia's overall casualties during the full-scale war have surpassed 1 million.

In a briefing reported on Aug. 12, President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russian losses are approximately three times greater than those of Ukraine, without specifying the total number of losses suffered.

In a podcast interview on Aug. 12, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that 60,000 Russian soldiers were killed in July, while U.S. President Donald Trump claimed on Aug. 1 that the number stood closer to 20,000.

The reported death toll now includes 33,100 volunteers, 18,000 recruited prisoners, and 13,300 mobilized soldiers, according to the media outlets. Over 5,400 officers have also been confirmed to have been killed.

Amid renewed summer offensives in multiple sectors of the front, Russia has steadily gained ground in eastern Ukraine and Kursk Oblast in recent months, but at the cost of heavy casualties as well as equipment losses. Among other units, internal documents published on July 17 by Ukraine's "I Want to Live" government project show that Russia's 41st Combined Arms Army fighting in eastern Ukraine has suffered "catastrophic" losses.

Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of the Prisoners of War (POWs) said on June 12 that more than 100,000 Russian families have contacted a Ukrainian-run initiative in search of information about missing Russian soldiers.

As of Aug. 12, Ukraine's General Staff estimates that Russia has lost 1,065,220 troops in Ukraine since the start of the war on Feb. 24, 2022. The numbers are largely in line with estimates made by Western intelligence agencies.

The Kyiv Independent cannot independently verify the total number of casualties sustained by either side.

The outlet published the complete list of identified casualties for the first time in February, marking three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to the publication, volunteers manually enter and verify each record to prevent duplicate entries in the database.

Read also: Russia exceeds monthly recruitment targets, Ukraines military intelligence says

Russia aims to build 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Ukraine's military intelligence says

Russia plans to produce 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR), said in an Aug. 12 interview with Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne.

Shahed-type drones, originally designed in Iran, have become a key element of Moscow's long-range strike arsenal against Ukraine, frequently used to target cities, infrastructure, and energy facilities.

Skibitskyi said Russia is expanding its manufacturing capacity, opening new production lines, and working to replace imported parts with domestically made components for assembling the drones.

"Today, the glider is theirs, and the internal combustion engine they install is also theirs. The navigation system, with the exception of chips and microelectronics, is Russian-made," he said.

The Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan hosts a major Shahed assembly plant. Ukrainian forces have targeted the site twice in recent days, most recently on Aug. 12, after a similar strike on Aug. 9.

Skibitskyi said drone attacks are a part of an effort to prevent Russia from meeting its production goals.

"Our task here is to prevent this from happening, to prevent such an increase. And, if possible, to destroy the production facilities themselves," Skibitskyi added.

The warning comes amid a surge in Russian drone use. Ukraine's Air Force recorded 6,129 Shahed-type drones launched in July, a new monthly record, surpassing June's 5,337, compared to just 423 in July 2024, a more than fourteen-fold increase.

The escalation has fueled fears that Moscow's growing stockpile could enable sustained, high-intensity bombardments against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

Read also: Russian-linked church faces potential ban in Ukraine as it remains reluctant to officially cut ties with Moscow

Germany pledges $500 million for NATO-led US weapons supply to Ukraine

Germany will contribute $500 million to a NATO initiative supplying Ukraine with critically needed U.S.-made weapons, the alliance announced on Aug. 13.

The support will come through NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism, which coordinates funding for Kyiv's most urgent battlefield needs.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Berlin's decision, saying the announcement "underlines its commitment to help the Ukrainian people defend their freedom."

"I commend Germany for stepping up once again," he said. "Germany is the largest European contributor of military aid to Ukraine."

The PURL initiative pools contributions from NATO members to finance American weapons, munitions, and equipment from U.S. stockpiles.

Germany's pledge follows earlier commitments of about $500 million from the Netherlands, as well as contributions from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

The program stems from a July 14 agreement announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, allowing European countries to purchase American arms for Ukraine.

Germany, which committed a record 5 billion euros ($5.65 billion) in military aid to Ukraine in May, has faced criticism for slow weapons deliveries early in the full-scale war but has since become Kyiv's second-largest military backer after the U.S.

Note from the author:

Ukraine War Latest is put together by the Kyiv Independent news desk team, who keep you informed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you value our work and want to ensure we have the resources to continue, join the Kyiv Independent community.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian forces launched an attack using 49 Shahed loitering munitions and decoy drones of various types and two Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles on the night of 12-13 August.

Source: Ukraine's Air Force

Details: The drones targeted Donetsk, Sumy and Chernihiv oblasts, while the missiles were launched towards Poltava Oblast.

Early reports indicated that, as of 08:00, air defence had downed or jammed 34 aerial assets: two Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles and 32 Shahed UAVs and decoy drones of various types in Ukraine's north and east.

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Hits by 17 UAVs were recorded in 15 locations.

Aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare units, unmanned systems units and mobile fire groups from Ukraine's defence forces were involved in repelling the attack.

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Congress held a massive protest against "vote theft" in Rajasthan's Jaipur on Wednesday. The top leaders of the party in the state, including former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot, participated in the rally. Gehlot criticised the Election Commission for demanding an affidavit from the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for enquiring into his "vote theft" allegation. "Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Akhilesh Yadav, all these people have sent a message across the country through the protest in Delhi that votes are being stolen... Rahul Gandhi has also provided data, and the Election Commission is demanding an affidavit from him. We have seen this for the first time," Gehlot told ANI during the protest march. "What is happening is dangerous for democracy... In Bihar, 60 lakh votes were cut, but not a single vote was added... It is against this that the State Congress Committee is protesting, in which everyone is participating," he said. Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra alleged that the Election Commission has become a puppet of the BJP. "The facts that Rahul Gandhi has presented before the country have proved that the government in Delhi has been formed based on vote theft... Double-edged swords are being used, as votes are being cut on one hand, and added on the other... The Election Commission has become a puppet of the BJP, and the BJP has become its spokesperson," Dotasra told ANI. Congress leader Sachin Pilot alleged that efforts are being made to hollow out the country's Constitutional institutions. "Today, questions are being raised across the country about rigging in the votes... The Election Commission is not giving any answer... I am surprised that the BJP is coming forward to defend the Election Commission. Efforts are being made to hollow out our Constitutional institutions," he said. Earlier this week, MPs from the INDIA bloc marched to the headquarters of the Election Commission demanding the rollback of special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar. They said that the exercise would disenfranchise large sections of society. (ANI)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has issued a response to the ruling party of Georgia for its use of footage depicting the damage caused by Russias full-scale aggression against Ukraine in its election campaign.

Source: a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published on Wednesday and cited by European Pravda

Details: The ministry described the actions of the Georgian Dream party as unfriendly, accusing the party of exploiting images of the horrific consequences of the war for its own political PR.

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"Such cynical steps show contempt for the Ukrainian people and the victims of Russian aggression, and cause justified outrage in Ukrainian society," the ministry said.

The ministry added that the Georgian authorities are bowing to Moscow and disregarding the principles of dignity and independence.

"We advise the political strategists of the Georgian ruling party to be honest with their own people and to show a more truthful picture in their post: the Russian tricolour on the right and the closed doors of the EU and NATO on the left. This would reflect reality, because the current Georgian authorities have prevented not war, but a European future for their country," the ministry stated.

At the same time, the ministry stressed that Ukraine remains consistent and steadfast in supporting the friendly people of Georgia in their aspiration to build an independent, democratic, and European state.

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Background:

As European Pravda previously reported, Georgian Dream has once again used the topic of the war in Ukraine in its election campaign, this time in the local elections.

The campaign videos show bombed Ukrainian cities on one side, and on the other  images from Georgia with restored building facades, parks and roads. "Choose peace" is the main slogan of Georgian Dream in the Tbilisi mayoral race.

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The Biliaze family, including parents Ilona and Valerii, sit at their kitchen table on May 12, 2025, in Watertown. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

Ilona Biliaze refreshed a government website on her phone in late July, checking for updates on her immigration case again and again.

Biliaze, her husband and two teenage children are displaced Ukrainians living in Watertown under a temporary legal status known as humanitarian parole after they fled the Russian invasion in 2022. She watched as the updates changed: Their decision was a month away. Then it was three weeks, then two months, then three months.

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Watching the time grow was defeating, after shed done everything she could think of to keep her family in their home. They were denied asylum, another temporary legal status; they shared their story to local news outlets and on social media; they tried reaching out to their congressional delegates. Their parole status was scheduled to expire Aug. 17.

She applied for the parole extension in June, and the office of U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, helped the family seek an expedited extension after they called his office in July. But the wait time on a decision kept increasing.

I felt so bad, Biliaze said. It was too long, too late.

Then, on July 28, it changed: Case approved.

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She called her husband and sponsor family to share the news. Her sponsor, Susan Buhler, started crying on the phone, relieved her adopted family could stay. They shared hugs in the Biliazes driveway and marveled over the phone screen. The official documents arrived in the mail last week.

The two parents and their teenage children can live and work in the United States through August 2027. Their 10-month-old son is an American citizen, because he was born in Watertown.

We feel safe here. This is our home, Biliaze said.

The Biliazes are among 117,000 Ukrainians who came to the United States through Uniting for Ukraine (U4U). The humanitarian parole program is carried out under the U.S. Homeland Security secretarys authority to allow noncitizens into the country with a sponsor on a temporary, case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons.

U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, announces his 2026 campaign for governor during an event on June 30, 2025, at the David Lust Accelerator Building in Rapid City. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)

Johnson told South Dakota Searchlight his office was able to help by walking the Biliazes through the paperwork and flagging it for federal workers to understand its urgency.

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Most South Dakotans understand how important it is that when people are here legally, fleeing terrible, dangerous situations, that we have legal mechanisms to remain until they can safely return home, Johnson said.

Johnsons office has worked on 535 constituent cases so far this year, ranging from the Biliazes immigration case to helping other South Dakotans navigate the Interval Revenue Service, Social Security and Veterans Affairs. Fifty-three cases involved the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

South Dakotas lone U.S. representative said that many Americans believe their congressional delegates only engage in political work, but constituent casework is where nonpartisanship still reigns.

Thats our job: Were supposed to advocate for South Dakotans, and thats what we do, Johnson said.

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The Biliazes hope to make South Dakota their home permanently and plan to apply for green cards, realizing how fast two years pass by. Congress has not offered a special pathway to legal permanent residency specifically for Ukrainian parolees, like the one for Cubans.

Johnson said opening up a citizenship pathway for families like the Biliazes or those on other temporary visa programs would be politically difficult, but possible.

When the southern border was in crisis, there was a limited appetite in Washington to talk about more legal pathways to residency in America, Johnson said. Now that weve regained operational control, theres more of an opportunity to have those conversations.

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United Launch Alliance fired off its first operational Vulcan rocket Tuesday, boosting two military satellites into space in the first U.S. Space Force-sanctioned flight of a new launcher that eventually will replace the company's Atlas 5 and already-retired Deltas.

Equipped with four solid-fuel strap-on boosters for additional takeoff power, the 198-foot-tall Vulcan's two methane-fueled BE-4 engines thundered to life at 8:56 p.m. EDT, instantly propelling the rocket away from pad 41 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

A United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket, making its first flight for the U.S. Space Force, majestically climbs away from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to kick off a high-priority military mission. / Credit: United Launch Alliance

Arcing over the Atlantic Ocean on an easterly trajectory, the Vulcan put on a spectacular sky-lighting show as it roared aloft atop nearly 3 million pounds of thrust and a jet of brilliant exhaust visible for miles around.

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The four strap-on boosters were jettisoned about 90 seconds after liftoff, followed three-and-a-half minutes later by burnout and separation of the Vulcan's 109-foot-tall first stage.

The Centaur second stage's two hydrogen-fueled Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10C engines ignited and took over from there, but in keeping with standard policy for military missions, ULA ended its launch commentary at that point and the rest of the flight was carried out in secrecy.

At least two satellites were believed to be on board: one fully classified spacecraft and an experimental satellite that will carry out tests of upgraded atomic clocks and navigation technology that could lead to more accurate, jam-proof Global Positioning System-type data for military and commercial users.

Both satellites were bound for geosynchronous orbit 22,300 miles above the equator, where spacecraft take 24 hours to complete one orbit, thus appearing stationary in the sky.

An artist's impression of the NTS-3 experimental navigation technology satellite. / Credit: Air Force Research Laboratory

GPS satellites operate in 12,500-mile-high orbits, but Navigation Technology Satellite 3, or NTS-3, will operate from its much higher perch using an advanced phased array antenna that can electronically direct signals to receivers in multiple locations across broad regions.

The NTS-3 antenna. / Credit: Air Force Research Laboratory

It is the Pentagon's first experimental navigation satellite since GPS precursors were launched in the 1970s. Along with the NTS-3 satellite, designed and built by L3Harris Technologies, the program includes a ground-based control system and receivers linked by software that enable rapid reprogramming as needed for upgrades or to utilize different signals.

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"GPS is such an integral part of our lives today," said Joanna Hinks, a senior aerospace engineer with the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. "You probably all use it in ways that you didn't even realize throughout your morning.

"And with NTS-3, we are going to be experimenting with a number of different technologies that look at how we can continue to evolve and augment GPS to make sure that it remains the gold standard that our warfighters need."

While the major goal of the flight is launching the USSF-106 payloads, the launch marked a major milestone for United Launch Alliance.

It was the third launch of the powerful new Vulcan after two test flights last year and the first to be "certified" by the Space Force to carry costly national security spy satellites and other expensive military spacecraft.

The United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket on pad 41 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station during pre-launch preparations. / Credit: Spaceflight Now

"This mission is headed directly to geosynchronous orbit and will be one of our longest missions to date," said Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of government and commercial programs. "This is the sole purpose of this vehicle. It was purposely designed to support these missions doing direct inject to geo for the Space Force."

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The Vulcan is replacing ULA's already-retired Delta family of rockets and the venerable Atlas 5, which is powered by a Russian-built RD-180 first stage engine. Criticism of ULA's use of Russian engines for launches of American military satellites and NASA spacecraft helped fuel congressional pressure for a new all-American launcher.

Thirteen Atlas 5's are left in ULA's inventory, all of them slated for civilian launches as ULA, a partnership of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, transitions to an all-Vulcan fleet.

In the meantime, SpaceX dominates the world launch market with its partially reusable and highly successful kerosene-fueled Falcon 9 and triple-core Falcon Heavy rockets. So far this year, SpaceX has launched 97 Falcon 9s.

But ULA President and CEO Tory Bruno said the Vulcan's first stage, using high-performance BE-4 engines provided by Blue Origin  owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos  and its high-power Centaur upper stage make the rocket particularly well suited for launching heavy military payloads into hard-to-reach orbits.

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"It is specifically designed for these exotic orbits that are primarily for the government," he said. "And this particular mission is the quintessential example. It is a direct injection to geosynchronous orbit. That means that it is a very, very long-duration mission."

He said the first stage is, in effect, delivering the Centaur to space with a full load of propellant "to go from LEO (low-Earth orbit) to somewhere else, like all the way to the geo belt, which is 20 times higher up. And what that translates to in capability (is) certainly more mass and more accuracy than is easily done by others."

While he didn't mention SpaceX or its Falcon Heavy by name, or ULA's retired Delta 4 Heavy, Bruno said "if you're a typical three-core heavy launch vehicle and ... really derived from a vehicle optimized for that LEO mission, you're going to have to have three cores to get out there, and you're going to have to expend all of them.

"And here's the really complicated rocket science. You know, one core is cheaper and more efficient than three expendable cores. It's literally that simple."

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That, coupled with the high-energy Centaur upper stage, gives ULA the capability to launch heavy payloads directly to high orbits without requiring satellites to use their own thrusters  and limited propellant  in transit.

ULA is expanding its ground infrastructure and expects to launch nine flights in 2025, reaching a cadence of two per month by the end of the year. The company expects to launch between 20 and 25 flights in 2026.

President Trump says meeting with Russia's Putin is not to broker peace deal in Ukraine

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Graduate workers gathered in Orono on August 13, 2025 to ask the University of Maine administration to agree to a fair union contract. (Photo courtesy of Maine AFL-CIO)

Graduate workers gathered in Orono on Wednesday to ask the University of Maine administration to agree to a fair union contract.

Members of the University of Maine Graduate Workers Union gathered outside the Raymond H. Fogler Library to speak out about the bargaining process for a contract that began in November 2023  more than 630 days ago. Other labor union members from across the state joined them in solidarity.

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Six hundred and thirty days. The graduate workers union has shown up to the table prepared to bargain and motivated to reach the first contract, said Grant Provost, a member of Ironworkers Local 7 and vice president of the Maine AFL-CIO. Its time for the university system to do the same.

Every person in Maine benefits from the important work that graduate students do, he added, including research that directly impacts Maines economy and industries such as forestry, wildlife, marine sciences and more.

Union members from other industries including a paper worker, an ironworker and a nurse spoke out in support of finalizing a contract for the graduate workers. State Sen. Mike Tipping (D-Penobscot), who co-chairs the Legislatures Labor Committee, was also present.

Erin Oberson, a labor and delivery nurse at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center and a member of the Maine State Nurses Association, said she has been supporting the graduate workers since they first formed their union. She explained that nurses are invested in the students efforts because they help teach some of the required courses for the UMaine nursing students.

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Shouldnt we want to attract the best and the brightest graduate workers to teach our states future nursing workforce? Oberson asked, which was responded to with applause. She said that isnt possible if those workers arent paid living wages or provided decent health care.

The university system said that it values the contributions of graduate workers but that it is limited by the state and federal money it receives, according to a statement provided by Samantha Warren, chief external and governmental affairs officer.

As a public university system, our ability to improve work opportunities and conditions without shifting costs to our students and their families in the form of unreasonable tuition increases largely depends on our State appropriation and our federal grants and contracts, tens of millions of dollars of which have been impacted in recent months, the statement reads. We continue to bargain with the University of Maine Graduate Workers Union in good faith and are committed to achieving an agreement that is responsive to the requests of these respected student workers and the operational needs and increasingly constrained resources of our public institutions.

The university also announced $250,000 in philanthropic funding back in May to support graduate students whose work had been jeopardized by the loss of federal research funding.

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Peter Howe, a research assistant and PhD student in the School of Forest Resources at UMaine, said the union had its 51st all-day bargaining session with the university last week.

What were proposing is something in line with all our peer universities and what did they hand us back? More crumbs, more pay cuts, Howe said. Were here to say that when we come back to the table on Friday, we need a fair contract and we need it now.

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has put Israel and Russia on notice that their armed forces and security personnel could be listed among parties credibly suspected of committing sexual violence in conflict zones.

The warning on Tuesday resulted from significant concerns regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations, Guterres wrote in a report seen by the Reuters news agency.

In his annual report to the UN Security Council on conflict-related sexual violence, Guterres said that Israel and Russia could be listed next year among the parties credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence.

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In his warning to Israel, Guterres said he was gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Israeli armed and security forces against Palestinians in several prisons, a detention centre and a military base.

Cases documented by the United Nations indicate patterns of sexual violence such as genital violence, prolonged forced nudity and repeated strip searches conducted in an abusive and degrading manner, Guterres wrote.

Because Israel has denied access to UN monitors, it has been challenging to make a definitive determination about patterns, trends and the systematic use of sexual violence by its forces, he said, urging Israels government to take the necessary measures to ensure immediate cessation of all acts of sexual violence, and make and implement specific time-bound commitments.

The UN chief said these should include investigations of credible allegations, clear orders and codes of conduct for military and security forces that prohibit sexual violence, and unimpeded access for UN monitors.

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In March, UN-backed human rights experts accused Israel of the systematic use of sexual, reproductive and other gender-based violence.

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel said it documented a range of violations perpetrated against Palestinian women, men, girls and boys, and accused Israeli forces of rape and sexual violence against Palestinian detainees.





Israels ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, dismissed the Secretary-Generals concerns as baseless accusations on Tuesday.

Danon, who circulated a letter he received from Guterres and his response to the UN chief, said the allegations are steeped in biased publications.

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The UN must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages, the Israeli ambassador said.

Danon stressed that Israel will not shy away from protecting its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law.

In July 2024, the Israeli military said it had detained and was questioning nine soldiers over the alleged sexual abuse of a Palestinian detainee at the infamous Sde Teiman prison facility, which was set up to detain people arrested in Gaza.

Israeli media reported at the time that a Palestinian prisoner was taken to hospital after suffering severe injuries from what was an alleged gang rape by military guards at the prison.





In the case of Russia, Guterres wrote that he was gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Russian armed and security forces and affiliated armed groups, primarily against Ukrainian prisoners of war, in 50 official and 22 unofficial detention facilities in Ukraine and Russia.

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These cases comprised a significant number of documented incidents of genital violence, including electrocution, beatings and burns to the genitals, and forced stripping and prolonged nudity, used to humiliate and elicit confessions or information, he said.

Russias mission to the UN in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report.

Guterres said that Russian authorities have not engaged with his special envoy on the matter.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. Security Council on Wednesday rejected plans by Sudans paramilitary group to establish a rival government in areas it controls, warning that the move threatens the countrys territorial integrity and risks further exacerbating the ongoing civil war.

The strongly worded statement by the U.N.s most powerful body unequivocally reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Sudans sovereignty, independence and unity. Any steps to undermine these principles threaten not only the future of Sudan but also the peace and stability of the broader region, the statement said.

The 15-member council said the announcement by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces also risks fragmenting the country and worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.

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Sudan plunged into conflict in mid-April 2023, when long-simmering tensions between its military and paramilitary leaders broke out in the capital, Khartoum, and spread to other regions, including western Darfur. Some 40,000 people have been killed, nearly 13 million displaced and many pushed to the brink of famine, U.N. agencies say.

The RSF and their allies announced in late June that they had formed a parallel government in areas the group controls, mainly in the vast Darfur region where allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity are being investigated.

The deputy prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said last month that the tribunal believes war crimes and crimes against humanity are taking place in Darfur, where the RSF controls all regional capitals except el-Fasher in North Darfur.

The Security Council reiterated that its priority is a resumption of talks by both parties to reach a lasting ceasefire and create conditions for a political resolution of the war, starting with a civilian-led transition that leads to a democratically elected national government.

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Council members recalled their resolution adopted last year demanding that the RSF lift its siege of el-Fasher, where famine and extreme food insecurity conditions are at risk of spreading. They expressed grave concern at reports of a renewed RSF offensive on the besieged city.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Wednesday that a year ago, famine was declared in the Zamzam displacement camp in North Darfur. The risk of famine has since spread to 17 areas in Darfur and the Kordofan region, which is adjacent to North Darfur and west of Khartoum, he said.

The U.N. World Food Program is calling for access to el-Fasher to deliver aid to people facing starvation, Dujarric said.

As a coping mechanism, some residents of the area are reportedly surviving on animal fodder and food waste, Dujarric said.

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WFP is providing digital cash to about 250,000 people in el-Fasher to buy dwindling food left in markets, he said, but escalating hunger makes it imperative to scale up assistance now.

Sudans foreign ministry accused the United Arab Emirates last month of sending Colombian mercenaries to fight alongside the RSF, saying the government has irrefutable evidence that fighters from Colombia and some neighboring countries were sponsored and financed by Emirati authorities.

The UAEs foreign affairs ministry said the government categorically rejects the allegations and denies involvement in the war by backing armed groups.

Without naming any countries, the Security Council urged all nations to refrain from external interference which seeks to foment conflict and instability and to support peace efforts.

The Security Council also condemned recent attacks in Kordofan that caused a high number of civilian casualties.
A report of a death at Revere Beach launched a police investigation Wednesday morning.

Massachusetts State Police investigated a possible unattended death in Revere at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday in the area of 645 Revere Beach Blvd. Police cordoned off a section of the beach during the investigation, according to state police.

However, through the investigation, police confirmed it wasnt a body.

Its been confirmed that the item in question is a large blanket rolled up, said Sergeant Gregory Jones in an email sent to MassLive. There has been no body of any type recovered.

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Read the original article on MassLive.
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP)  A man who entered the United States illegally is being charged with the forcible rape of a juvenile, according to the Rockingham County Sheriffs Office.

On June 16, deputies got a report of a sexual assault involving a juvenile that occurred at a home on the 100 block of Linda Drive in Madison.

Investigators later obtained a warrant for Miguel Perez, 33, of Madison, for second-degree forcible rape. Perez resides in the same home where the sexual assault was reported.

Miguel Perez (Rockingham County Sheriffs Office)

On August 8, Perez was taken into custody and served with the warrant without incident. He is being held in the detention center without bond and will appear in court on August 21.

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Homeland Security also investigated Perezs citizenship status and determined that he entered the United States illegally. As a result, an ICE detainer was placed on Perez.

There is no further information available at this time.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
A Wisconsin woman traveled halfway around the world, disguised herself and attempted to assassinate a man on behalf of someone she had met on a dating app.

Aimee Betro, 44, was convicted Tuesday, Aug. 12, in Birmingham Crown Court in the U.K. of conspiracy to murder and two firearms charges, the Crown Prosecution Service announced.

Betro, whom police described as an otherwise "unexceptional" woman from West Allis, Wis. with a minimal criminal "footprint," traveled to the U.K. in 2019, donned a niqab to disguise herself and headed to the Birmingham cul-de-sac home of the victim, Sikander Ali, where she lay in wait for about 45 minutes.

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Once Ali arrived home, Betro could be seen on CCTV footage approaching him with a gun "clearly visible in her hand," but the gun jammed when she fired at point-blank range, allowing Ali to get back into his car and escape, per the CPS.

West Midlands Police

The following day, she took a taxi back to the Ali home and opened fire on the house, this time dispatching three bullets which caused "extensive damage" to the home.

As she left the scene in the taxi, texts sent from her burner phone to the victim's father sought to taunt him, including "stop playing hide 'n' seek you're lucky it jammed." She quickly fled the U.K. afterwards, the CPS said.

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Betro reportedly entered the world of international assassination at the behest of her lover, Mohammed Nazir of Derbyshire, whom she met on a dating app and visited in the U.K. between Dec. 2018 and Jan. 2019, jurors heard in court, according to The Guardian.

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The jury heard that a year before the attempt on Ali's life, Nazir and his dad, Mohammed Aslam, were injured in a fight at a clothing shop owned by Ali's father  after which Nazir recruited his lover to commit murder as the two families bitterly feuded, the BBC reported.

West Midlands Police

Nazir and Aslam were each convicted last year on conspiracy to murder charges. Nazir was sentenced to 32 years while Aslam got 10 years.

As Nazir and Aslam were tried, Betro was hiding out in Armenia, and had evaded capture for 5 years until a reporter for the Daily Mail tracked her down last year and tipped off police, the outlet reported. She was extradited to the U.K. to face charges.

Betro is set to be sentenced on Aug. 21.



Read the original article on People
The Brief

The Union County Sheriff's Office said deputies were investigating a possible break-in attempt on Wednesday when they located a person of interest.

Police said that person drove away from officers and then got out of the car and ran from them.

Two K9s helped locate and arrest that person of interest.

UNION COUNTY, Ga. - An attempted burglar was arrested thanks to two K9 officers, according to Union County deputies.

What we know

The Union County Sheriff's Office said deputies were investigating a possible break-in attempt on Wednesday when they located a person of interest.

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Police said that person, later identified as Charles House, drove away from officers and then got out of the car and ran from them.

Union County Sheriff's Office K9 Bolo and Georgia Department of Natural Resources K9 Judge helped locate and arrest House.

What they're saying

Union County Sheriff Dyer said he is proud to have K9 Bolo as a part of their team and that their partnership and expertise highlight the invaluable contributions k9 units make to protecting the community.

The Source

Information in this article came from a release by the Union County Sheriff's Office.
The case was related to a couple's family dispute over child custody.

The girl, who had appeared for the hearing yesterday evening, suddenly jumped from the first floor in an attempt to end her life. Fortunately, she survived with severe injuries. Court staff rescued her and rushed her to the hospital in an ambulance.

The incident site was inspected by personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Tamil Nadu Police.

Investigations revealed that the girl's mother is from the Andaman Islands, and her father is from Neelankarai, Chennai. The father had filed a habeas corpus petition in the Madras High Court, requesting that the girl be handed over to him, as the mother had remarried.

Hearing the petition, the High Court ordered that the girl be placed in a care home due to her mother's remarriage.

According to initial reports, the girl, distressed by this decision, attempted suicide by jumping from the first floor of the High Court building. (ANI)
University of Tennessee System President Randy Boyd said Aug. 13 the system hired a high-powered national law firm to provide guidance about meeting federal DEI standards laid out by the Trump administration.

UT has battled accusations from federal leaders that it has failed to adhere to new  and multiplying  DEI regulations. The national law firm Saul Ewing will assess the system's policies and activities to ensure it meets all requirements set by the Trump administration, according to the email from Boyd to the UT community.

Boyd's letter specifically mentioned following a July 29 U.S. Department of Justice memo outlining anti-discrimination rules for agencies that receive federal funding.

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His email asks employees to study the federal rules and meet them.

"Compliance is a top priority, as well as a priority shared by every campus and institute leader. Failing to meet this responsibility would undermine the trust placed in us and our ability to fulfill our mission," Boyd said in the email.

He told employees to be responsive to compliance auditors and attorneys if they are contacted with questions.

The move comes as the Trump administration has targeted high-profile universities across the U.S., such as Columbia, Harvard University and Northwestern, over their diversity and inclusion policies and practices. UT is on its radar as well, but has not received the same level of scrutiny.

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This year, the Trump administration has dialed up pressure on UT, including:

Hayden Dunbar is the storyteller reporter. Email hayden.dunbar@knoxnews.com.

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at subscribe.knoxnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: University of Tennessee System hires law firm to ensure DEI compliance
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Tuesday marks the fifth day of searching for clues after two body parts were found in the Tualatin River in Hillsboro.

The Washington County Sheriffs Office are working under the assumption the body parts belong to the same person, but they cant confirm they are.

Longview homicide suspect arrested in LA

This is really uncommon. Unsettling, concerning are other terms I would use to describe this incident, said the Washington County Sheriffs Office Public Information Officer David Huey.

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On Friday, Aug. 8, a recreational kayaker found a body part floating in the river, prompting an investigation by the Washington County Sheriffs Office and the detectives from the major crimes team. But the mystery didnt stop there. About a mile downstream, detectives found a second body part the following day.

There is some decomposition thats taken place, but it looks like its a recent incident, Huey said.

Investigators are not specifying what parts of the body they are, or if they are from a man or a woman. But they are confirming that they came from an adult and are treating the investigation as a homicide.

So were working under the assumption that this is going to be a fatality. So the level of injury that looks like has been sustained does appear to be not survivable, said Huey.

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They are not searching the river today but continue to actively investigate.

Salem man drowns in Molalla River

Well, thats certainly something that we want to find, as the rest of the person. I know the search will continue, but I cant tell you which days or what times thats going to happen, said Huey.

The sheriffs office got support from marine units, K9, a dive team, and ground searchers from the Clackamas and Columbia County sheriffs offices.

It is a pretty lengthy stretch of river that, that our investigators have to comb through, said Huey.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Health Ministry updated that the child had been hospitalized in recent weeks on an ECMO heart-lung machine.

Israels Health Ministry reported the death of a two-year-old boy who contracted measles. The child, unvaccinated, had been hospitalized for several weeks and was connected to an IV.

Since the measles outbreak began in Israel about three months ago, 503 cases have been confirmed, with 187 currently active. Most recent patients are from Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh, and nearly all hospitalized children are unvaccinated.

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According to the ministry, 12 children under the age of six currently remain in hospital care, three in intensive care. The Health Ministry urged parents to ensure their children receive routine vaccinations, particularly the measles vaccine, to prevent further severe cases.

Transferred from hospital to hospital

The toddler, who was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit at Hadassah-University Medical Center a few weeks ago, arrived in critical condition after being connected to the ECMO machine and transferred from Shaare Zedek Hospital to Hadassah. The unvaccinated patient contracted measles, which led to a secondary infection of streptococcus, causing severe pneumonia.

Measles virus cells concept as microscopic infectious disease inside a human body (illustration) (credit: INGIMAGE)

For weeks, he was treated in the pediatric intensive care unit while doctors fought to save his life.

Another child, a one-year-old, has been receiving treatment in the pediatric intensive care unit for the past few weeks and is still connected to the ECMO machine in very serious condition.
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA)  A veteran police officer at the Urbana Police Department is getting a promotion after the City Council gave its approval on Monday.

The council unanimously approved the appointment of Zachery Mikalik to Deputy Chief during its meeting on Monday. Mikalik, an 18-year veteran of the department, formerly served as a Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant and as a Lieutenant with the Urbana Police Department. He also served in the Illinois National Guard. He currently serves as Services Division Commander, leading initiatives in officer training, wellness, community engagement, and system modernization.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Police Chief Larry Boone credited Mikalik with launching some key initiatives in the Urbana Police Department, including the Officer Wellness Program, a structured Internship Program and the Crisis Co-Response Team. He also spearheaded reforms in compliance tracking, community partnerships, and recruitment, the latter of which included the introduction of the departments first LinkedIn presence.

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Champaign Park District providing free registration fees for select programs

Ive had the opportunity to work alongside Deputy Chief Mikalik out in the community and he truly cares about Urbana, Mayor DeShawn Williams said in the statement. He consistently shows a deep and genuine concern for the well-being of the officers he helps lead, and his dedication, compassion, and steady leadership make him an exceptional choice to help guide the future of our police force and our city.

Department officials added in their own Facebook post that the appointment reflects Mikaliks dedication to both the department and the community throughout his career.

I live in Urbana. My kids go to school in Urbana. I love this city, and I want to see whats best for it, Mikalik said. I believe that I can help with the chiefs guidance to do that in collaboration with the rest of the city and the police department.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that the Trump administration can slash up to roughly $2 billion in foreign aid payments that it halted earlier this year, delivering a victory to the Trump administration months after President Donald Trump sought to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

Judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled 2-1 to vacate a lower courts preliminary injunction handed down earlier this year. The lower court judge had required the Trump administration to resume its payments on nearly $1.98 billion in owed funds for USAID projects previously approved by Congress, after the Trump administration abruptly froze them earlier this year. The issue has been held up in federal court for months.

Writing for the majority, Judge Karen L. Henderson, a President George H.W. Bush appointee, said that the plaintiffs lacked the proper cause of action to sue the Trump administration over its decision to withhold the funds, or what is known as impoundment.

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Scotus Rules On Nearly $2 Billion In Frozen Usaid Payments

U.S. President Donald Trump is joined by Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, and his son, X Musk, during an executive order signing in the Oval Office at the White House on February 11, 2025.

The plaintiffs, Henderson said, "may not bring a freestanding constitutional claim if the underlying alleged violation and claimed authority are statutory."

"Nor do the grantees have a cause of action under the APA because APA review is precluded by the Impoundment Control Act (ICA)," she added, though she noted the U.S. Comptroller General could technically sue under that law.

Read On The Fox News App

The 2-1 majority also ruled that the plaintiffs failed to show Trump had acted "plainly" in excess of his executive branch authorities.

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Judge Henderson was joined in the majority opinion by Judge Greg Katsas, a Trump appointee.

It was not immediately clear whether the plaintiffs in the case would seek to have their case reviewed en banc or by the full panel for the Democrat-majority U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. though doing so could afford them some near-term relief, if the full appeals court sided with the federal judge who had issued the preliminary injunction earlier this year.

Regardless, the ruling is a major victory for President Donald Trump, who issued an executive order on his first day in office in January to block nearly all foreign aid spending as part of his administrations broader crackdown on waste, fraud, and abuse.

Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration To Pay 'Unlawfully' Restricted Usaid Funds

Employees and supporters gather to protest outside of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) headquarters on February 03, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Critics, meanwhile, have argued that the abrupt withdrawal of U.S. investment and presence around the world risks economic harm, reputational damage and new security risks at home and abroad.

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Trumps executive order sparked a flurry of federal lawsuits, and eventually made its way to the Supreme Court in February. Justices on the high court denied the Trump administrations request in February to continue its freeze on USAID payments, ruling 5-4 that an earlier Feb. 26 payment deadline had already expired, and remanded the case back to the district court to clarify additional payment details.

Four conservative justices on the bench excoriated the slim majority ruling earlier this year.

Justice Samuel Alito issued a scathing, eight-page dissent in February blasting the narrow court majority's ruling as an "unfortunate misstep," and one he argued "rewards an act of judicial hubris" by the lower court judge, U.S. District Judge Amir Ali.

Lawsuit Tracker: New Resistance Battling Trump's Second Term Through Onslaught Of Lawsuits Taking Aim At Eos

Washington , DC - January 20: Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh, Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor attend the 60th inaugural ceremony on January 20, 2025, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. Trump became the 47th president of the United States in a rare indoor inauguration ceremony. The parade was also moved inside Capitol One Arena due to weather.

"Does a single district-court judge who likely lacks jurisdiction have the unchecked power to compel the Government of the United States to pay out (and probably lose forever) 2 billion taxpayer dollars? The answer to that question should be an emphatic No, but a majority of this Court apparently thinks otherwise," Alito wrote in the dissent, joined by Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh.

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"I am stunned," he added.

Trump Temporarily Thwarted In Doge Mission To End Usaid

An American flag and USAID flag fly outside the USAID building in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 1, 2025.

Still, the Trump administration's efforts have sparked the ire of foreign aid groups and other recipients of the assistance, who argue that the quick dismantling of them risked "immediate and irreparable harm."

They have also raised concerns that slashing the funds could create new obstacles for U.S. businesses looking to open or expand into foreign markets.

Scott Greytak, a director at the group U.S. Transparency International, previously told Fox News Digital in a statement that cutting such a large amount of U.S. foreign aid carries significant economic and security risks especially in countries with higher risks of corruption, could "open the door for increased cross-border corruption, fraud, and other crimes," he said.





Original article source: US appeals court says Trump can slash billions in owed USAID funds
MANILA, Philippines (AP)  The U.S. deployed two warships Wednesday in a disputed South China Sea shoal where two Chinese ships collided earlier in the week while trying to drive away a smaller Philippine ship in a high-seas accident that raised alarms about maritime safety.

Both China and the Philippines claim Scarborough Shoal and other outcroppings in the South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also lay overlapping claims in the contested waters.

The USS Higgins, a guided missile destroyer, and USS Cincinnati, a littoral combat ship, were shadowed by a Chinese navy ship while sailing about 30 nautical miles (55 kilometers) from the Scarborough Shoal. There were no reports of any untoward incident, Philippine coast guard Commodore Jay Tarriela said, citing information from U.S. officials and a Philippine surveillance flight.

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The U.S. Navy has staged what it calls freedom-of-navigation voyages and overflights in the South China Sea for years to challenge Chinas restrictions and its demand for entry notifications in virtually the entire stretch of the disputed waters that it claims. That has angered China and its forces have had close runs-in with U.S. warships and aircraft on such patrols in international waters and airspace.

The deployment happened after Washingtons ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, on Tuesday condemned the latest reckless action by China directed against a Philippine vessel in Scarborough. The rich fishing atoll off the northwestern Philippines has been the scene of increasingly tense confrontations between the Chinese and Philippine coast guard, fishing and other ships in recent years.

The Philippines is the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. Washington has repeatedly warned that its obligated to defend the Philippines if Filipino forces come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.

On Monday, a Chinese navy destroyer and a Chinese coast guard ship accidentally collided while trying to block and drive away a smaller Philippine coast guard ship, the BRP Suluan, about 10.5 nautical miles (19 kilometers) from Scarborough. Video footages made public by the Philippine coast guard show the Chinese coast guard ship blasting its powerful water cannon and a number of Chinese personnel standing at the bow shortly before that section was hit by the fast-turning Chinese navy ship.

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Shortly after the collision, the video shows the heavily shattered bow of the Chinese coast guard ship without the Chinese personnel, who were standing on deck before the crash. The Chinese navy ship sustained deep dents and what appeared to be linear gushes on its hull.

Japan, Australia and New Zealand expressed alarm on Wednesday over the dangerous maneuvers that led to the collision in the busy waters, a key global trade route.

Japan upholds the rule of law and opposes any actions which increase tensions. Our concern goes to the repeated actions in the South China Sea, Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo Kazuya said in a post on X.

The Australian Embassy in Manila expressed concern by the dangerous and unprofessional conduct of Chinese vessels near Scarborough Shoal involving the Philippine Coast Guard, saying in a statement the incident "highlights the need for de-escalation, restraint and respect for international law.

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This is a learning experience for the Peoples Republic of China, Tarriela, the Philippine coast guard commodore, told a news conference in Manila. For so many years, we have been reminding them to stop dangerous maneuvers, to stop risky blockings, to adhere to the (anti-)collision regulations because if there is a very high chance of miscalculation, this kind of collision incident would happen.

Tarriela spoke a few hours after a Chinese fighter jet flew as close as 500 feet (150 meters) to try to drive away a Philippine coast guard plane on a surveillance flight on Wednesday over the Scarborough with invited journalists on board. The Chinese jet carried out dangerous maneuvers for about 20 minutes, including flying about 200 feet (60 meters) above the small Philippine aircraft, Tarriela said.

___

Associated Press writers Joeal Calupitan and Aaron Favila in Manila, Philippines, contributed to this report.
The News

The Trump administration sanctioned four entities over their role in the critical minerals trade in eastern DR Congo as it seeks to implement a peace deal in the conflict-hit region.

The sanctions target PARECO-FF, a Congolese militia group aligned to the DR Congo army that the US Treasury accuses of carrying out illegal mining operations in Rubya between 2022 and 2024. The eastern town is home to DR Congos biggest deposit of coltan  the highly-sought mineral used to make mobile phones, computers, and other electronics  and is now under the control of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The other sanction targets are the Congolese mining company CDMC and two Chinese minerals exporters, East Rise and Star Dragon.

While the sanctions might have a limited impact on the militia group in the short term, they would have a more successful hit on the companies who indirectly fund the violence, said Benjamin Mossberg, a partner at Field Focus, a Washington-based advisory group. This is more than just a toothless press release, Mossberg told Semafor. The next step should be looking at the Rwandan or other middle men facilitating this network.

Know More

US President Donald Trump has been trying to broker a peace deal in eastern DR Congo and in June Kinshasa and Kigali signed an agreement that said Rwandan troops would withdraw from eastern DR Congo within 90 days. A few weeks later M23 agreed to a Qatar-backed ceasefire. Analysts expect a final peace deal and full ceasefire to be signed by Aug. 18.

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Tensions in the region have risen in recent days. DR Congos army on Tuesday accused Rwanda-backed rebels of carrying out multiple attacks, which it said violated the peace agreements, and warned it reserved the right to respond to provocations. A day earlier, M23 accused Kinshasas forces of mobilizing troops.

Step Back

The Trump administrations push for conflict resolution has been linked to a strategic bid by the US for access to DR Congos estimated $25 trillion mineral wealth that is critical for tech, artificial intelligence, and the clean energy transition. Analysts say its a blend of populist performance and commercial deal-making, aiming to counter Chinas dominance in the region.

While the June 27 accord was lauded as a diplomatic win, analysts have warned that long-term peace hinges on complex compromises, rebel disarmament, and protecting DR Congos sovereignty over its resources.

Notable
(WJW)  The U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for Mexico last week, urging Americans to exercise increased caution when visiting the country.

According to federal officials, the Level 2 advisory was issued due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping risks.

Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide kidnapping, carjacking and robbery, the advisory states. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico.

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Stimulus check 2025? What we know about current rebate legislation

The advisory goes on to say that U.S. government officials arent allowed to travel to some high-risk areas, making it difficult to help travelers.

The Department of State warned that emergency services are also limited or sometimes unavailable in remote or rural regions of the country.

Anyone who comes across a road checkpoint should comply, according to officials.

Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed, the advisory states.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to follow the same travel restrictions as government employees:

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May not travel between cities after dark

Must rely on dispatched vehicles from regulated taxi stands or app-based services like Uber or Cabify and may not wave down taxis on the street

Should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas

May not drive between Mexican border cities, the U.S.-Mexico border and the interior of Mexico. There are some limited exceptions

Bald eagles in Ohio: How many nests in each county

Some specific areas of Mexico are under Level 3 (reconsider travel) and Level 4 (do not travel) advisories. Learn more details at the Department of States website.

Earlier this year, other popular vacation destinations  including the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas  received updated travel advisories.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
By Daniel Wiessner

(Reuters) -A U.S. judge on Wednesday struck down rules adopted during President Donald Trump's first term that exempt employers with religious or moral objections from having to provide workers with insurance coverage for birth control.

U.S. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone in Philadelphia said the 2018 rules were not justified, rejecting the Trump administration's claims that they were necessary to protect the rights of religious employers.

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The ruling came in a lawsuit by Pennsylvania and New Jersey that reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which in 2020 upheld the rules on technical grounds but did not address their merits.

The U.S. Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Little Sisters of the Poor, a Roman Catholic order of nuns that intervened in the case to defend the rules, will appeal the ruling, according to the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a nonprofit that represents the order.

The federal Affordable Care Act requires employers to provide insurance coverage for contraception but allows those with religious objections to seek exemptions.

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The 2018 rules created a blanket exemption for employers with religious or moral objections to contraception. The Trump administration said that even requiring employers to apply for an exemption could burden their religious practice, in violation of federal law.

But Beetlestone on Wednesday said there was a mismatch between the vast scope of the exemption and the relatively small number of employers who may need it.

That "casts doubt on whether ... there is a rational connection between the problem the Agencies identified and the solution they had chosen," wrote Beetlestone, an appointee of President Barack Obama, a Democrat.

The administration of President Joe Biden, a Democrat, had proposed withdrawing the Trump administration rules in 2023 but that proposal was withdrawn weeks before Biden left office in January.

(Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
A trio of lawmakers has introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at enforcing more humane treatment for some of the American West's most "iconic" animals.

In July, U.S. Representatives Dina Titus, Juan Ciscomani, and Steve Cohen brought forward H.R. 4356, also known as the Wild Horse and Burro Protection Act. If passed and signed into law, the legislation would ban the use of helicopters and other "fixed-wing" aircraft for use in rounding up wild, free-roaming horses and burros.

Over the course of the proposed two-year phase-out period, the bill would also mandate camera usage on aircraft used for roundups and would require the footage to be included in agency reports.

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The lawmakers have also called for a report on the effects of aircraft on horse and burro populations, more humane alternatives to helicopter-facilitated roundups, and the job creation that could come from implementing these alternatives.

In a press release announcing the introduction of the bipartisan legislation, Ciscomani described the negative impact that aircraft chases can have on wild animals. "For too long, wild horses and burros have been subjected to dangerous, cruel and costly roundups that often result in the death of the animal," he said.

Due to its potential to cause injury, the use of helicopters to round up wild animals has been controversial for years. The practice has mainly been used by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to manage wild horse and burro populations on public lands.

Helicopters have been used in roundups to more effectively spot wild animals and then herd them over long distances toward a designated trap site. However, critics argue that the aircraft flying at low altitudes may cause unnecessary panic and stress in animals, leading to avoidable injuries and even deaths.

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Together with the potential to reduce negative effects on wildlife and thereby ecosystems, there's also the possibility that the use of more humane methods could provide the additional benefit of shrinking the carbon footprint of the roundups, should the alternatives involve a shift away from gas-powered aircraft.

Joanna Grossman, the equine program director at the Animal Welfare Institute, provided a pointed critique in the release from Ciscomani's office. "The Bureau of Land Management is charged with humanely managing our nation's federally protected wild horses, yet every year we see horrific fatalities during helicopter roundups  from wild mustangs running for their lives on broken legs to foals dying from exhaustion," Grossman said.

"Taxpayer dollars should not be funding this abject cruelty."

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

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.
Congress leader and former Union Minister Anand Sharma strongly condemned the remarks of Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, "denying" the humanitarian crisis of Gaza, saying that the language used by the Israeli representative and "undiplomatic, distasteful and unacceptable," while the brutality, destruction of schools, hospitals and mass starvation is taking place. "Israeli Ambassador's brazen denial of the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza & justification for brutal killings of over 60,000 defenceless people, especially children, women & elderly people, deserves the strongest condemnation," the Congress leader wrote in a post on X. "The language used is undiplomatic, distasteful and unacceptable. World is aghast over the continuing brutalities, destruction of schools and hospitals and mass starvation caused by Israeli army. It is an unpardonable crime against humanity," his post added. The former union minister's remarks come as earlier the Israeli ambassador responded to a post by party leader Priyanka Gandhi calling the Gaza crisis as a "genocide" being committed by Israel. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had tweeted, "The Israeli state is committing genocide. It has murdered over 60,000 people, 18,430 of whom were children. It has starved hundreds to death including many children and is threatening to starve millions." She further condemned global silence, stating, "Enabling these crimes by silence and inaction is a crime in itself," and criticised the Indian government, adding, "It is shameful that the Indian Government stands silent as Israel unleashes this devastation on the people of Palestine." In response, Ambassador Azar wrote on X, "What is shameful is your deceit. Israel killed 25,000 Hamas terrorists". He also claimed that Hamas hides behind civilians and that Israel has facilitated 2 million tonnes of food into Gaza. "What is shameful is your deceit. Israel killed 25,000 Hamas terrorists. The terrible cost in human lives derives from Hamas's heinous tactics of hiding behind civilians, their shooting of people trying to evacuate or receive assistance and their rocket fire," the ambassador wrote. Addressing demographic concerns raised indirectly by the accusations, Azar added, "The Gaza population has grown 450% in the last 50 years, no genocide there." Earlier on Tuesday, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh strongly condemned the Israeli Ambassador's response to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's remarks on the Gaza conflict. Calling Azar's words as "totally unacceptable," he also criticised the Modi government for its "extreme moral cowardice" in not speaking out against Israel's actions in Gaza. He demanded that the Indian government take serious exception to the Ambassador's response. (ANI)
The US government is reviewing several Smithsonian Institution exhibitions for what it deems unwelcome portrayals of American history, ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary next year.

In a letter to the Smithsonian  which runs many museums, mainly in the capital Washington  the White House said it would check whether displays spread "divisive or partisan" narratives.

Exhibition texts, wall labels, websites and educational materials will be assessed for tone, historical context and "alignment with American ideals."

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Museums must submit draft concepts, exhibition plans, catalogues and programs for current shows, with some documents due within 30 days.

Trump's push for history 'alignment'

Critics accuse US President Donald Trump of fuelling a culture war and curbing artistic and expressive freedom  a charge the political right often directs back at left-leaning circles.

Previous administrations rarely intervened in museum content, a change observed under the current Trump administration.

In the spring, he issued an executive order directing museums to present history in line with government views.

He argued that in recent years there had been "a concerted and widespread effort to rewrite our Nations history, replacing objective facts with a distorted narrative driven by ideology rather than truth."

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The order also stated that "our Nation's unparalleled legacy of advancing liberty, individual rights, and human happiness is reconstructed as inherently racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed."

The Smithsonian Institution was singled out as an example at the time.

Smithsonian museums under review

The first phase covers the National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of the American Indian, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
A report by the US State Department released on Tuesday attests to a deterioration in the human rights situation in Germany in 2024.

"The human rights situation in Germany worsened during the year," said an executive summary of the report's Germany entry.

"Significant human rights issues included restrictions on freedom of expression and credible reports of crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by antisemitism."

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According to the annually published report, the German government "took some credible steps to investigate, prosecute, and punish officials who committed human rights abuses."

In February, US Vice President JD Vance accused Germany and other European allies of restricting free speech and marginalizing far-right parties, including the Alternative for Germany (AfD).

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose conservatives won February's elections ahead of the AfD, has repeatedly said he opposes US interference in domestic politics and called Vance's statements "intrusive."

The report on Germany relating to 2023 had not highlighted any significant changes regarding the human rights situation but did flag some crimes against members of ethnic and religious groups, including Muslims.

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Anti-Semitism was also mentioned, as were crimes involving violence or the threat of violence against members of the LGBTQI+ community.

Rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch criticized the US State Department's country reports, accusing the Trump administration of mischaracterizing some records of abuses and omitting others to fit its political aims.

US broadcaster CNN cited sources as saying that the report, which had been drafted before US President Donald Trump took office in January, was significantly pared down by the new administration.
The U.S. and Russia are set to suggest a West Bank-style occupation of Ukraine as a way of ending the war, according to The London Times.

Under the proposed plans, Russia would have both economic and military control of the occupied parts of Ukraine, utilizing its own governing body, mimicking Israels control of Palestinian territory taken from Jordan during the 1967 conflict.

The suggestion was put forward during discussions between President Donald Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff and his Russian counterparts, a source with insight into the U.S. National Security Council told the paper.

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Witkoff, who also serves as the White Houses Middle East envoy, reportedly backs the suggestion, which the U.S. believes will solve the issue of the Ukrainian constitution prohibiting giving up territory without organizing a referendum. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected any notion of ceding territory, the new occupation proposal may lead to a truce following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.

According to the proposal, Ukraines borders would remain officially unchanged, similar to the borders of the West Bank, even as Israel controls the territory.

Itll just be like Israel occupies the West Bank, the source told The Times.

US official Steve Witkoff met Russian president Vladimir Putin in Moscow on August 6. Now, reports are emerging that both the US and Russia are backing plans for a West-bank style split of Ukraine to end the war. (Sputnik)

With a governor, with an economic situation that goes into Russia, not Ukraine. But itll still be Ukraine, because  Ukraine will never give up its sovereignty. But the reality is itll be occupied territory and the model is Palestine, the source added to the paper.

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The proposal will almost certainly be part of discussions between Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin set for Friday in Alaska. On Wednesday, Zelensky met with European leaders and Trump ahead of the Russia summit. Zelensky is not set to attend Fridays summit in person.

Trump reaffirmed during the Wednesday meeting that territorial issues can only be negotiated between Russia and Ukraine, according to French president Emmanuel Macron. The French leader also said Trump wants a ceasefire plan to be finalized during his Friday meeting.

Any issue which deals with the territorial integrity of Ukraine cannot be discussed just like that, without looking at our constitution and the will of our people, Zelensky told the press on Friday. As to our principles, as to our territorial integrity, in the end, will be decided on the level of leaders. Without Ukraine (at the table), its impossible to achieve, Zelensky added.

Zelensky said that a ceasefire should be reached and then security guarantees. He also said that sanctions against Russia should be imposed if no ceasefire deal is reached in Alaska.

Vladimir Putin, seen here speaking to Donald Trump in 2017, is trying to push the boundaries of the Russian occupation of Ukraine as far as he can ahead of their Friday meeting in Alaska (Getty)

As details of any potential ceasefire are being discussed, the U.S. believes that the West Bank-style deal is the reality of war and the refusal of other nations to directly fight Russia, according to The Times.

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In May, U.S. Senior Director for Counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka, told Politico that The Trump administration lives in the real world.

We recognize the reality on the ground, he added. No. 1, thats the beginning because were not utopianists and were not human engineers. Were not some kind of pie-in-the-sky believers in utopia.

He went on to say that We recognize the reality on the ground and we have one priority above all else, whether its the Middle East or whether its Ukraine. Its to stop the bloodshed. Everything else comes after the bloodshed has been halted.

The International Court of Justice has ruled that Israels occupation of the West Bank is illegal. The occupation isnt recognized by the U.S., and its only partially recognized by Russia.

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Last September, the United Nations ordered Israel to end the occupation by a vote of 124 to 14, with 43 countries abstaining. The resolution stated that Israel must adhere to international law within 12 months, pull back its military, end all settlement efforts, evacuate all settlers from the occupied territories, and remove parts of the wall separating the West Bank. Israel has ignored the resolution and voted against the measure, as did the U.S.

Israel has faced widespread condemnation over its occupation and the settlement efforts. More than 150 have been established in recent years. Citizens of Israel who live in the West Bank must adhere to Israeli law, while Palestinians are subject to martial law, and theyre unable to vote in Israeli national elections.
The Trump administration has published a report claiming that human rights in the United Kingdom worsened over the past year.

The annual report, part of the US State Departments global survey of human rights and covers the 2024 calendar year, criticized what it said were serious restrictions on free speech and threats of violence motivated by antisemitism.

Although other reports in the series claimed human rights also regressed in countries like France and Germany, the list of grievances in the UK was far longer, underscoring the supposed backsliding in the age of social media.

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Specifically on freedom of speech in the UK, the US report said that the government generally respected this right but that there were specific areas of concern, including involving restrictions on political speech deemed hateful or offensive.

A UK government spokesperson said that free speech is vital for democracy, and that we are proud to uphold freedoms whilst keeping our citizens safe.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in February, Vice President JD Vance  who is currently on vacation in Englands rural Cotswolds  claimed that free speech across Europe is in retreat and singled out Britain as the country where the basic liberties of citizens had been caught in the crosshairs.

The report singled out the response by what was then the young government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer to the murder of three schoolgirls by Axel Rudakubana, the British son of Rwandan migrants, in the northern English town of Southport last year.

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The murders  and misinformation about the identity of the perpetrator  sparked anti-immigration riots across the country, prompting some to set fire to a hotel used to house asylum seekers while people were inside.

US Vice President JD Vance has accused the UK of backsliding on civil liberties. - Kin Cheung/Pool/Getty Images

In the wake of the Southport killings, government officials repeatedly intervened to chill speech as to the identity and motives of the attacker, the report said.

Although the report implied nefariousness on the part of the British government, prosecutors applied existing laws, such as the Public Order Act 1986 and the Communications Act 2003, to punish speech deemed indecent or grossly offensive.

To stem the rioting, Starmer  a former director of public prosecutions  pledged that those involved would face the full force of the law. That summer, nearly 2,000 people were arrested and more than 1,000 people were charged.

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Although the riots swiftly died down after the initial spasm of outrage, many on the British right criticized the governments response as heavy-handed, designed to throttle conservative views.

While many media observers deemed two-tier enforcement of these laws following the Southport attacks an especially grievous example of government censorship, censorship of ordinary Britons was increasingly routine, often targeted at political speech, the report said.

It cited the sentencing in July of Lee Joseph Dunn to eight weeks in prison for posting a meme suggesting a link between migrants and knife crime. Dunn pleaded guilty to sending messages that were grossly offensive, which prosecutors said risked worsening community tensions.

Dunns case was not unusual. In another high-profile instance, Lucy Connolly, a mother and former nanny, was sentenced to 31 months in prison after calling for mass deportation and urging hotels housing immigrants to be set on fire. If that makes me racist so be it, she posted on X at the time.

Vance and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy went fishing at the British politician's country retreat in Kent, outside London, on August 8. - Kin Cheung/Pool/AFP/Getty Images

While the UK maintains it is striking a balance between protecting speech and keeping citizens safe, Vance claims the UK has got that balance wrong. During a meeting last week with UK Foreign Minister David Lammy, the vice president said he did not want other countries to follow us down what I think was a very dark path under the Biden administration by censoring conservative views.

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Following Vances Munich speech, and his more recent interventions, many in Britain have accused him of hypocrisy and cited the Trump administrations detention of students over pro-Palestinian speech and taking legal action against broadcasters for what it deems hostile news coverage.

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A report produced by the Trump administration says the human rights situation in the UK has "worsened" over the past year.

The annual report, which looks at global human rights, specifically pointed to what it said were restrictions on freedom of expression and threats of violence motivated by antisemitism in Britain.

The criticism echoes comments previously made by members of the US president's senior team, including Vice-President JD Vance.

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A UK government spokesperson said: "Free speech is vital for democracy around the world including here in the UK and we are proud to uphold freedoms whilst keeping our citizens safe."

The report also describes the human rights situation as having "worsened" in France and Germany.

On freedom of speech in the UK, it said "specific areas of concern" included restrictions on political speech deemed "hateful" or "offensive".

It said the response to last year's Southport attacks had been an "especially grievous example of government censorship", adding, "censorship of ordinary Britons was increasingly routine, often targeted at political speech".

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Three young girls were stabbed to death at a Taylor Swift dance class by 18-year-old Axel Rudakubana in July 2024.

A peaceful vigil was held in the town the next day, but misinformation spread online about Rudakubana led to violent protests.

Posts claiming he was an asylum seeker, who had arrived in the UK on a small boat, were shared widely.

In the wake of the rioting, action was taken against internet users who made the false claims and urged revenge. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised that those involved would "face the full force of the law".

The US state department report said local and national government officials had "repeatedly intervened to chill speech".

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State department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, without naming the UK specifically, said online restrictions had targeted "disfavoured voices on political or religious grounds."

"No matter really how disagreeable someone's speech may be, criminalising it or silencing it by force only serves as a catalyst for further hatred, suppression or polarisation," Bruce told reporters.

The report also pointed to buffer zone laws which prohibit protests outside abortion service centres and Public Spaces Protection Orders, powers local councils can use to ban certain anti-social activities.

Scotland implemented 200m (656ft) buffer zones in September 2024. A month later, 150m buffer zones were put in place around abortion clinics in England and Wales.

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When they were introduced, safeguarding minister Jess Phillips said: "We will not sit back and tolerate harassment, abuse and intimidation as people exercise their legal right to healthcare."

In April, a woman was convicted of holding a sign reading "Here to talk, if you want" outside a clinic in Bournemouth.

Livia Tossici-Bolt's case was highlighted by Vance and the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour - a bureau within the US state department.

The bureau said it was "disappointed" by the ruling. "Freedom of expression must be protected for all," it added.

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On a more positive note, the report also highlighted how "the government effectively enforced laws protecting freedom of association, collective bargaining, and the right of workers to engage in a strike or other industrial action".
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday 15 August should not be seen as a victory for the Kremlin or as a concession to Russia. He believes the meeting will be of an exploratory nature, during which Trump wants to make his own assessment of the situation by looking "this guy in the eye".

Source: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in an interview with Sid Rosenberg on the podcast Sid & Friends in the Morning

Details: Rubio said that Trump had not achieved the desired result in his phone conversations with Putin. That is why, he explained, the US President decided to meet the Russian leader in person to make his own assessment of the situation by looking "this guy in the eye".

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Quote: "For President Trump, a meeting is not a concession. If you watch some of the news  I dont watch a lot of it anymore  but you watch it, and these people are going nuts. 'Oh, this is  what a win for Putin; he gets a meeting.' He doesnt view it that way. A meeting is what you do to kind of figure out and make your decision. 'I want to have all the facts. I want to look this guy in the eye.' And thats what the President wants to do."

Details: Rubio noted that Fridays meeting in Alaska will be exploratory in nature and "were going to know very early in that meeting whether this thing has any chance of success or not".

He emphasised that Trump has a reputation as an "extraordinary dealmaker" and an "amazing negotiator" whose approach is particularly effective in face-to-face conversations.

Quote: "He has a tremendous instinct for deciphering human nature, so understanding how to navigate these things. Ive seen it be very successful in these trade deals when he comes in and closes them, and theyre always in person. Its hard to do that on the phone. So I think thats what Friday is going to be about."

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Details: Meanwhile, Rubio admitted that the talks will be difficult, as "this war means a lot to Putin".

Background:

On 8 August, Trump announced the planned meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August.

Trump expects his meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August to be "constructive", but does not rule out negative outcomes.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on 10 August that any agreement between the US and Russia must involve Ukraine and the EU. She stressed that a potential deal should not become a launch pad for further Russian aggression against Ukraine, NATO and Europe.

Kallas said it is the US that "has the power to force Russia into serious negotiations".

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US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called on Europe to join sanctions against countries that buy Russian oil.

He told Bloomberg TV on Wednesday that European countries must be prepared to support these secondary sanctions. The US has so far imposed an additional 25% tariff on imports from India as punishment for the country's purchase of Russian oil.

US President Donald Trump will tell Russian President Vladimir Putin at their meeting in Alaska on Friday that "all options are on the table", Bessent said. "Sanctions can go up, or they can be loosened. They can have a definitive life, they can go on indefinitely".

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Bessent said he had asked those present at the recent G7 summit whether they would be prepared to impose a 200% tariff on goods from China because of oil imports from Russia. "And you know what? They all wanted to see what shoes they were wearing," he said.

Revenues from energy exports are a key source of income for Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The US and the EU have also imposed various other sanctions on Russia in recent years.
By David Lawder

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday he was working to divest illiquid personal assets including farmland by year-end after the Office of Government Ethics said he had not met deadlines in the ethics agreement he signed in January.

In a letter sent on Monday to Senate Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo, OGE Deputy Compliance Director Dale Christopher wrote that Bessent "has failed to timely comply with certain terms of the ethics agreement he signed" before taking office in late January.

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The ethics office said it told Treasury ethics officials to remind Bessent "that it is his personal responsibility to avoid taking any action that could create a real or apparent conflict of interest with regard to his holdings," the letter said.

Bessent, a key figure driving President Donald Trump's economic agenda including tariffs, tax cuts and deregulation, signed an ethics agreement in January that pledged he would divest his Key Square Group hedge fund and other assets to avoid conflicts of interest. Many of the divestitures were to be completed by April 28.

In a statement issued by the Treasury Department, Bessent said he had completed all but 4% of the asset divestitures required by his ethics agreement.

"Much of (that) is farmland, an inherently highly illiquid asset," Bessent said.

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"As agreed upon with OGE, I am working towards selling the rest of my required divestitures before the end of this year."

A U.S. Treasury spokesperson said most of the required divestitures, valued at about $1 billion, were completed before Trump's second-term inauguration on January 20. Bessent took office about a week later.

OGE's Christopher on Wednesday said in a subsequent letter to Crapo that Treasury ethics officials told OGE that Bessent was committed to completing the remaining asset divestitures by December 15, including farmland in North Dakota.

Christopher said the Treasury officials had explained that the illiquid assets were not readily marketable. Some assets also have restrictions on who can acquire them.

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Bessent will continue to recuse himself from certain matters affecting the remaining assets, and Treasury's ethics office has set up screening procedures to identify "potentially conflicting matters that would be seen by the Secretary," the letter said.

(Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
The US has warned that censorship of free speech is getting worse in the UK.

On Tuesday, the US state department released its annual Human Rights Report, claiming there are credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression in Britain.

The human rights situation worsened in Britain in 2024, the report said, frequently referring to the period after Sir Keir Starmer won the election last July. It also criticised the Online Safety Act.

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Following the Southport attack last year, the UK Government repeatedly intervened to chill speech, the report said.

Although not mentioned by name in the report, the White House has previously expressed an interest in Lucy Connolly, a former childminder and wife of a Conservative councillor, who is serving a two-and-a-half-year jail sentence over a social media post published in the wake of the Southport attack.

After rumours spread online that the killer of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class was an illegal migrant, Connolly called for deportation now in a post on X, adding: Set fire to all the... [asylum] hotels... for all I care.

Three Court of Appeal judges rejected the 42-year-olds case application in July, meaning that she will not be released until late August.

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Critics have claimed that her lengthy jail sentence is a clear example of two-tier justice.

The report said that while media observers deemed these to be especially grievous examples of government censorship, censorship of ordinary Britons was increasingly routine, often targeted at political speech.

It also cited the example of Adam Smith-Connor, who was convicted last October for silently praying outside of an abortion clinic in Dorset for his unborn son.

The 51-year-old army veteran was given a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay 9,000 ($12,000) for breaching a ban on protests within a buffer zone around the clinic in November 2022.

Credit: X/@ADF_UK

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Mr Smith-Connor claimed that he had the right to silently pray for an unborn son whom he now regrets aborting 24 years ago and that prosecution amounted to criminalising someones beliefs.

The case caught the attention of JD Vance, the vice-president, who invoked it during a speech at Februarys Munich Security Conference in which he warned that Britain was undergoing a crisis of censorship.

In March, Mr Smith-Connor was one of five pro-life activists to meet with a delegation of state department officials who visited the UK to report back to the White House on the erosion of free speech, The Telegraph previously revealed.

The delegation outlined a number of specific areas of concern, including restrictions on political speech deemed hateful or offensive and safe-access zones, such as those surrounding abortion clinics.

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Officials who clamped down on free speech following the Southport murders should have been reprimanded, the report also appeared to suggest.

It specifically referred to Stephen Parkinson, the director of public prosecutions, who warned those who repost, repeat, or amplify a message which is false, threatening, or stirs up racial/religious hatred in the wake of the unrest that they could be prosecuted.

While the British Government sometimes took credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses, the subsequent prosecution and punishment for such abuses was inconsistent, the report added.

Among a host of significant human rights issues raised by the state departments report were people being threatened with arrest in order to limit expression, as well as crimes, violence, or threats of violence motivated by anti-Semitism on British soil.

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It comes as ministers face claims that the UK is censoring social media with the Online Safety Act and enforcing a system of two-tier justice, whereby certain groups face sanctions for exercising their right to freedom of expression while others appear to be treated with impunity.

Tammy Bruce, the state department press secretary, said that limitations placed on freedom of speech in the UK and Europe are intolerable in a free society.

Credit: Reuters

We consider freedom of expression to be a foundational component of a functioning democracy, Ms Bruce said at a press briefing on Tuesday. Societies are strengthened by free expression of opinion, and government censorship is intolerable in a free society.

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The report indicates fraying ties between the Trump administration and Sir Keirs government over the issue of online censorship and free speech.

The report was delayed for months as Trump appointees edited an earlier draft to bring it in line with America First values, a state department official told Reuters.

It comes after The Telegraph revealed earlier this month that the Government has been using a secretive Whitehall spy unit to flag videos with concerning narratives to social media giants, including TikTok, warning that they were exacerbating tensions on the streets.

This issue of free speech and accusations of a two-tier justice system same to the fore during the unrest following the Southport attack - Getty Images

The British Governments efforts to police the web are part of the Online Safety Act, which was brought into law to protect children from harmful content.

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Social media giants who fail to fulfil policies targeting content that is deemed harmful can be fined up to 10 per cent of their global revenue, up to 18m ($24m).

However, the rule has been criticised as clamping down on free speech, with some overzealous firms blocking users from viewing material, including parliamentary debates about grooming gangs.

Donald Trumps inner circle sees the potential penalties, which can be levied at US companies, as an unwarranted foreign intervention into US free speech.

President Trump has made it clear that free speech is one of our most cherished freedoms as Americans, a senior US state department official previously told The Telegraph.

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Jim Jordan, the chairman of the US House of Representatives judiciary committee, said: [In the UK] mean tweets get you a longer prison sentence than many violent offences.

JD Vance, the US vice-president, has brought up the issue of free speech in the UK several times this year - AFP /Michaela Stache

Lorcan Price, a barrister and legal counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom International in London, said: Whilst these developments are deeply concerning, its encouraging to see Britains US allies highlight these issues, as more and more Brits speak out in defence of our hard-fought freedom of speech.

Sir Gavin Williamson, a Conservative MP and former education secretary, said: I think whats become increasingly clear is the Government does believe in free speech as long as you agree with the Government and their world-view.

Weve seen this demonstrated not just in terms of sometimes the heavy-handed and draconian approach that they have taken towards peoples views being expressed on social media, but how they tried the legislation to underpin free speech in universities.

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Mr Williamson added: At every stage, the Government seems to want to crowd out the freedom for people to disagree.

I think this report highlights the concerns on that, whether its the heavy-handed approach thats been taken towards Lucy Connolly, or whether it is so many other instances where people who, if theyd been expressing a similar Left-wing view, would never have been approached.

You just dont expect this draconian, heavy-handed approach to free speech and its just not something we should see in this country.

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The US has been working on arranging a trilateral meeting between the leaders of Ukraine, the US and Russia at the end of next week.

Source: CBS News, citing two sources familiar with the talks

Details: CBS News reiterated US President Donald Trump's remarks, made to journalists at the White House press centre on Monday 11 August, where he had voiced optimism that his upcoming meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin would be "constructive" and announced his intention to arrange a personal meeting with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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"The next meeting will be with Zelenskyy and Putin or Zelenskyy and Putin and me," Trump said at the time.

Two CBS News sources said on Tuesday 12 August that the US is working on arranging a meeting between Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy at the end of next week.

Background:

On 13 August, Zelenskyy said that the main topic of the Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin would be an immediate ceasefire.

He also added that Trump would inform him of the results after this meeting in order to determine the next steps.

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A Global Celebration, as CfaN Crosses 100 Million Salvation Decisions for Christ

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Christ for all > Nations (CfaN)

Aug. 12, 2025

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 12, 2025 /Standard Newswire/  During a recent Christ for All Nations (CfaN) Gospel Campaign in Congo, shouts of praise burst forth from the dusty field as Evangelist Daniel Kolenda announced that CfaN had just crossed a historic milestone: 100 million documented decisions for Jesus Christ since the ministrys founding in 1974.

From Africa to Europe, England to Australia, Singapore to Brazil, Canada, and America, the celebrations continued as the announcement was made at each of the ministrys offices around the world. When Evangelist Kolenda arrived home from Congo, he shared the news at Nations Church in Orlando, Florida, where he is the lead pastor. What a joyous moment! Worship and thanksgiving filled the room.

As Christ for all Nations surged past the miracle milestone of 100 MILLION documented decisions for Christ, it wasnt just a miracle statistic . . . it was a divine signpost. It wasnt a finish line; it was a launching pad, a prophetic window to take even bolder steps.

Evangelist Kolenda and Christ for all Nations are believing God to see 150 MILLION souls saved and discipled by the end of this Decade. 50 million MORE in the next 5 years! A HUGE step!

A new day! Evangelist Kolenda shared that this is a time of acceleration, multiplication, and collaboration. The ministry will continue its Mass Gospel Campaigns in Africa, while also focusing on youth campaigns, worldwide fire conferences, and evangelism training initiatives to equip more evangelists and ministers so that every nation is reached with the Good News of Jesus Christ. CfaN continues to press forward with the same fire, passion, and Spirit-filled urgency that marked its beginnings.

About Christ for All Nations:

Founded in 1974 by Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke, and now led by Evangelist Daniel Kolenda, Christ for All Nations is a non-denominational, Spirit-empowered evangelistic ministry with offices in multiple nations around the world and a vision to see the Gospel preached to the ends of the earth.

To learn more or partner with the ministry, visit https://cfan.org, IG: @cfanglobal

SOURCE Christ for All Nations

CONTACT: Mary-Kathryn Manuel, press@cfan.org, 888-800-2767
Election Commission of India (ECI) has received a total of 17,665 claims and objections over the draft voter list after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar, out of which 454 complaints have been disposed, a press note said on Wednesday. According to the press note by ECI, after 13 days, no claim or objection has been submitted by any political party. A total of 74,525 forms have been received from new electors on attaining 18 years of age or above, including six forms received from BLAS. As per rules, the claims and objections are to be disposed of by the concerned ERO/AERO after the expiry of seven days after the verification of eligibility documents. As per SIR orders, no name can be deleted from the draft list published on August 1, 2025, without passing a speaking order by the ERO/AERO after conducting an enquiry and after giving a fair and reasonable opportunity, the press note said. The ECI published the draft voter list after the SIR exercise in poll-bound Bihar on August 1. The final voter list will be released after the one month given for claims and objections. Earlier till Tuesday, the poll body had 13,970 complaints from the electors, out of which 341 were disposed. While a total of 63,591 forms were received from new electors on attaining 18 years of age or above, including six forms received from BLAS. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Supreme Court began hearing a batch of petitions challenging the ECI's decision to conduct a SIR of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar and observed that the poll panel was right in stating that an Aadhaar card is not conclusive proof of citizenship. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi also remarked that the inclusion and exclusion of citizens and non-citizens from the electoral rolls falls within the remit of the ECI. During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha, told the bench that the exclusion of about 65 lakh voters from the draft electoral roll, without any objection to their inclusion, is illegal. To this, the bench said that as per the Rules, the persons excluded have to submit applications for inclusion, and it is only at this stage that anyone's objection will be considered. The apex court also did not agree with the submission that the people in Bihar do not have the majority of documents sought by the ECI as proof during the SIR. Justice Kant said, "Bihar is part of India. If they don't have them, other states won't either." "There must be something to prove you are a citizen of India... everybody possesses some certificate... You need it even to buy a SIM. OBC, SC, ST certificates... It is a very sweeping argument that in Bihar, nobody possesses these documents," Justice Kant said. (ANI)
By Leah Douglas

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Department of Agriculture moved to terminate union contracts with thousands of employees of its animal health and food safety inspection agencies, according to documents seen by Reuters, as one union on Wednesday challenged the firings in court.

The notices sent to union leaders at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Food Safety and Inspection Service on Tuesday evening said the action was aligned with President Donald Trump's March executive order to exclude some federal workers from collective bargaining because their agencies have national security missions, the documents show.

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The Trump administration also has moved to end union contracts at the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies under the executive order.

"USDA is optimizing our workforce and returning the Department to a customer service-focused, farmer-first agency," an agency spokesperson said. "This move will allow us to be a much more nimble as well as an attractive employer."

About 6,500 food and consumer safety inspectors at FSIS were covered by the terminated collective bargaining agreement, said Paula Soldner, chairperson of the National Joint Council of Food Inspection Locals, part of the American Federation of Government Employees. FSIS employees inspect meat, poultry and egg products to assess quality and prevent foodborne illness.

The termination adds to employees' uncertainty and confusion as the administration works to shrink the federal government, Soldner said.

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Roughly 1,500 APHIS employees who inspect plants for pests and disease will be affected by a notice terminating their bargaining agreement, according to the National Association of Agriculture Employees. The NAAE filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Wednesday challenging the termination on the grounds that their work is unrelated to national security.

At least another 150 APHIS employees in a second agency union will also be affected, said a source familiar with the situation.

A federal appeals court on August 1 lifted an injunction that had prevented agencies from implementing the executive order.

The USDA has lost more than 15,000 employees since January due to terminations or financial incentives to leave, including more than 500 at FSIS and 1,300 at APHIS.

(Reporting by Leah Douglas in Washington; Editing by Mark Porter, Timothy Gardner, Richard Chang and Aurora Ellis)
The Brief

USF and a major university benefactor are planning to build a new college for artificial intelligence and cybersecurity at the Tampa campus.

Three thousand students are already enrolled in the program with classes beginning in a couple of weeks.

The university benefactor Arnie Bellini wants the Tampa Bay area to be known as "Cyber Bay."

TAMPA, Fla. - Officials at the University of South Florida and a major university benefactor are planning to build a new college for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity at USF in Tampa.

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A new building is planned, but 3,000 students are already enrolled and will begin classes in a couple of weeks. Initially, the new classes will be held in existing USF facilities.

READ:Local scientist uses AI to battle mosquitos

The backstory

Arnie Bellini, the major university benefactor, sold the local company ConnectWise for a reported $1.5 billion. Seventy workers at the employee-owned company reportedly became millionaires.

Bellini said USF is uniquely positioned to house the artificial intelligence and cybersecurity programs. It's because the university is in a large metropolitan area, and it's near MacDill Air Force Base, where thousands of people already work in high-level cyber positions at SOCOM and CENTCOM.

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Bellini wants to create a tech ecosphere in the Tampa Bay region where business, industry, the military and USF can create synergy that will include new, high-paying jobs.

MORE: Hertz using artificial intelligence at Tampa International Airport to inspect rental cars for damage

What's next

Bellini plans to donate millions of dollars and USF will seek additional funding from the Florida Legislature. USF officials said it will be the only center of its kind in the state and one of just a few in the nation.

USF also projects 5,000 students will be enrolled in the new cyber college by 2028.

The Source

FOX 13's Lloyd Sowers interviewed Arnie Bellini and the USF provost who is heading the project.
Credit - Getty Images

Health practitioners, companies, and others have for years hailed the potential benefits of AI in medicine, from improving medical imaging to outperforming doctors at diagnostic assessments. The transformative technology has even been predicted by AI enthusiasts to one day help find a cure to cancer.

But a new study has found that doctors who regularly used AI actually became less skilled within months.

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The study, which was published on Wednesday in the Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology journal, found that over the course of six months, clinicians became over-reliant on AI recommendations and became themselves less motivated, less focused, and less responsible when making cognitive decisions without AI assistance.

Its the latest study to demonstrate potential adverse outcomes on AI users. An earlier study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that ChatGPT eroded critical thinking skills.

How the study was conducted

Researchers across various European institutions conducted an observational study surveying four endoscopy centers in Poland that participated in the Artificial Intelligence in Colonoscopy for Cancer Prevention (ACCEPT) trial. The study was funded by the European Commission and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.

As part of the trial, the centers had introduced AI tools for the detection of polypsgrowths that can be benign or cancerousin late 2021. The study looked at 1,443 non-AI-assisted colonoscopies out of a total 2,177 colonoscopies conducted between September 2021 and March 2022. The colonoscopies were performed by 19 experienced endoscopists.

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Researchers compared the quality of colonoscopy conducted three months before and three months after AI was implemented. Colonoscopies were conducted either with or without AI assistance, at random. Of those conducted without AI assistance, 795 were conducted before regular AI use was implemented and 648 were conducted after the AI tools were introduced.

What the study found

Three months before AI was introduced, the adenoma detection rate (ADR) was around 28%. Three months after AI was introduced, the rate dropped to 22% when clinicians were unassisted by AI. ADR is a commonly used quality indicator for colonoscopies and represents the proportion of screening colonoscopies performed by a physician that detect at least one histologically confirmed colorectal adenoma or adenocarcinoma. Adenomas are precancerous growths, and a higher ADR is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.

The study found that AI did help endoscopists with detection when used, but once the assistance was removed, clinicians were worse at detection.

Researchers attributed it to the natural human tendency to over-rely on the recommendations of decision support systems like AI.

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Imagine that you want to travel anywhere, and you're unable to use Google Maps, Marcin Romanczyk, co-author of the study and an assistant professor at the Medical University of Silesia, told MedPage Today. We call it the Google Maps effect. We try to get somewhere, and its impossible to use a regular map. It works very similarly.

Implications of the study

Omer Ahmad, a consultant gastroenterologist at University College Hospital London who wrote an editorial alongside the study but was not involved in its research, tells TIME that its likely that exposure to AI weakened doctors visual search habits and alerting gaze patterns, which are critical for detecting polyps.

In essence, dependence on AI detection could dull human pattern recognition, Ahmad says. He adds that regular use of AI could also reduce diagnostic confidence when AI assistance is withdrawn, or that the endoscopists skill of manoeuvring the colonoscope could be reduced.

In comments to the Science Media Center (SMC), Catherine Menon, principal lecturer at the University of Hertfordshires Department of Computer Science, said: Although de-skilling resulting from AI use has been raised as a theoretical risk in previous studies, this study is the first to present real-world data that might potentially indicate de-skilling arising from the use of AI in diagnostic colonoscopies. Menon raised concerns that overreliance on AI could leave health practitioners at risk to technological compromise.

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Other experts are more cautious about drawing conclusions from a single study.

Venet Osmani, a professor of clinical AI and machine learning at Queen Mary University of London, noted to SMC that the total number of colonoscopiesincluding both AI-assisted and non-AI-assisted onesincreased over the course of the study. The increased workload, Osmani suggested, could have led to clinician fatigue and poorer detection rates.

Allan Tucker, a professor of artificial intelligence at Brunel University of London, also noted that with AI assistance, clinician performance improved overall. Concerns about deskilling due to automation bias, added Tucker to SMC, is not unique to AI systems and is a risk with the introduction of any new technology.

The ethical question then is whether we trust AI over humans, said Tucker. Often, we expect there to be a human overseeing all AI decision-making but if the human experts are putting less effort into their own decisions as a result of introducing AI systems this could be problematic.

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This is not simply about monitoring technology, says Ahmad. Its about navigating the complexities of a new human-AI clinical ecosystem. Establishing safeguards is critical, he adds, suggesting that beyond this study, people may need to focus on preserving essential skills in a world where AI becomes ubiquitous.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT)  University of Southern Mississippi (USM) students are getting ready for the new semester.

Hundreds of freshmen and transfer students arrived on August 12 to settle into their dorms. Faculty members and student organizations were on hand to welcome the new Golden Eagles.

USM welcomes students with series of events in August

Ive loved every minute of it. Even just on campus, there are different preview days and orientations, especially. I think its a beautiful campus, and I think that I can really find my home here, said Elizabeth Lenow, a freshman.

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With more than 3,300 students on campus, the residence halls are at full capacity. USM President Joe Paul said this year marks the third consecutive increase in the number of incoming freshmen.

Ive literally spent my entire life with these unique beginnings and endings that higher education provides. So the month of August, when you hear the Pride practicing, you see the cars coming in, and the freshmen are moving in, its a very exhilarating time. Its a new beginning, said Paul.

The university is also celebrating the highest-ever retention rate, with 77% of first-year students coming back for a second year.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The city of Germantown Planning Commission is reviewing a proposal that could bring a University of Tennessee at Martin satellite campus to Wildwood Farm.

The city said in a social media post that the 7,735-square-foot building would enroll 30 students in veterinary technology, agriculture, and equestrian sciences  fields that would honor Wildwoods history.

The project comes from two-time Olympic gold medalist Melanie Smith Taylor and her familys donation of the Wildwood Farm to the UT system.

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Germantown Olympian to donate $79.5M property to UT Martin in universitys largest donation

Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon Photo of Wildwood Farm in 2021 by Melissa Moon

They said there will be parking, a new educational driveway, and occasional events tied to the schools mission.

Melanie Smith Taylor at Wildwood Farm in 2021 in Germantown, Tennessee.

In 2021, WREG reported that the University of Tennessee at Martin received its largest donation in the schools history. A former gold medal Olympic equestrian, Melanie Smith Taylor, agreed to donate the 350 acres of mixed pasture to UT upon her death.

Taylor and school officials announced in June 2021, that she would donate the property.

The property is valued at a record-shattering $79.5 million. This Germantown farm is the largest commitment ever for the University of Tennessee.

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The decision was really laid out by Lee, my late husband, said Taylor in August 2021. Lee had such an interest in science and education and the land and animals, and to think that this could continue to be a place for people to enjoy and to learn and for future generations to be part of this place.

Taylor said her husband grew up on the farm, his dad buying 40 acres of land at a time. She said the iconic horse barn was built in 1935 in six months for $40,000 and, at the time, was the second-largest barn in the country.

When I first married Lee, we had over 150 horses on the farm, but when Lee died, we downsized to make it more manageable. We kind of planned for what was going to happen in the future, said Taylor.

Former Olympian says familys Tennessee horse farm will be a living classroom

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That plan included preserving the farm in its current state to honor the Taylor family while allowing UT to use the land to increase educational programs in veterinary health technology and other agricultural disciplines down the road.

Wildwood Farm is the largest undeveloped tract of land in Germantown. Taylor wanted to make sure it stays that way and said it will benefit the entire community.

We need more green space, said Taylor. I grew up in Germantown when there were basically very few paved roads, and it was just so fun to be able to ride through the countryside. I feel like it will be a nice transition from past, present to the future.

The city said the universitys vision will ensure the property is preserved and used to educate future generations.

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The proposal has not been approved by the city of Germantown.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Utah Fire Info is reminding the public to set up a risk-free environment when target shooting, in order to help prevent wildfires.

In 2025, Utah has had over 750 fires that have burned more than 156,000 acres and dry winds and high temperatures have led to hazardous conditions. As of August 1st, Utah is in a state of emergency due to the high fire risk. Utah Fire Info is urging the public to maintain common sense and be cautious to help prevent fire starts, especially when target shooting.

Courtesy: Utah Fire Info

As part of their #FireSense campaign, Utah Fire Info says, when you are out shooting, its important to look around and be mindful of your surroundings. Setting up a risk-free environment is key.

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They are also asking the public to consider the following tips when shooting outside:

Bring a shovel and water or fire extinguisher to put out a fire

Place shooting targets on dirt or gravel, away from grass

Consider shooting at an established outdoor or indoor range

Dont shoot with steel core ammo

Dont shoot trash, such as TVs or other appliances

Utah Fire Info also said that exploding targets, tracer ammo and incendiary ammo are illegal on public lands. Individuals should also be sure to use backstops that are free from dry vegetation and check for nearby trails and campsites for other people, before shooting.

Of the 750+ fires started in 2025, 538 were caused by humans.

Latest headlines:

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
A fireball rises into the sky over Nevada after the U.S. government detonated a 61-kiloton device on June 4, 1953. Nuclear weapons experiments at the Nevada Test Site spread fallout to other states, including Arizona, research and records show. (Getty Images)

Last month, Congress revived and expanded the program that offered payments to people sickened by nuclear weapons testing, meaning Utahs downwinders can again apply for compensation.

For years, Intermountains Downwinder Clinic, located at the St. George Regional Hospitals Cancer Center, has provided free help to downwinders  that includes education, health care assistance and help applying to receive payments through the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, or RECA.

However, RECA expired in June 2024 after Congress failed to reauthorize it.

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In the 13 months after the program expired, the Downwinder Clinic was still working with eligible families to gather the documents needed to qualify for RECA payments. And last month, after Congress reauthorized RECA in its massive spending bill, downwinders who were just recently diagnosed with cancer or who didnt know about the program are again eligible for compensation.

We have been working with families during the 13 months the program was expired to help gather the documents they would need when RECA was reinstated. Now, we want people to know that the qualifying boundaries have expanded, as well as new applicants qualify for a larger compensation amount for the health issues they have encountered, Barlow said.

RECA has been in place since 1990, but downwinders have long said it should be expanded. Despite studies suggesting the entire West was impacted by dangerous levels of radiation during nuclear tests, downwinders in just 10 counties in Utah, as well as a handful of counties in Nevada and Arizona, were covered.

Now, the programs scope is much broader. All of Utah and Idaho is considered an affected area, meaning if you lived in the Beehive and Gem states for a period of 12 months between 1951 to 1962, and contracted a certain type of cancer, you are likely eligible for compensation.

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Eligible cancers include leukemia (but not chronic lymphocytic leukemia), multiple myeloma, lymphomas and cancers of the pharynx, small intestine, salivary gland, brain, stomach, urinary bladder, colon, thyroid, pancreas, breast, esophagus, bile ducts, liver, gall bladder, lung, and ovarian.

New applicants will also now receive $100,000  the prior compensation amount was $50,000. However, that increase is not retroactive, meaning downwinders who already received payments are not eligible for the new amount.

Utah News Dispatch, like the Idaho Capital Sun, is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Utah News Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor McKenzie Romero for questions: info@utahnewsdispatch.com.

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A Miami judge overseeing an environmental lawsuit seeking to shut down Alligator Alcatraz said Tuesday at the end of a contentious afternoon of witness testimony that she would like to take up Attorney General James Uthmeier on his invitation to visit the Everglades immigration detention center.

Surprising attorneys for the DeSantis administration, U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams said shed heard Uthmeier extend an invitation to visit the detention camp during an Aug. 8 Fox Business interview in which he referred to her as a leftist, activist judge.

I invite the judges, come visit these facilities, said Uthmeier, who also referenced a different federal lawsuit in Miami about detainees access to lawyers and courts.

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Williams said she had interpreted the invitation to be serious. When the states lawyers said they had no knowledge of an official invitation, she said she had been in contact with the U.S. Marshalls about a possible site visit and was prepared to go this week.

Williams dropped the issue when state lawyers reiterated their surprise.

The back-and-forth was the latest development in an ongoing saga between Uthmeier and Williams, an Obama appointee who held Uthmeier in contempt of court in June in a different lawsuit.

Williams sanctioned the attorney general for violating her restraining order on enforcing a Florida immigration law that criminalizes undocumented immigrants when they enter the state. He had written a letter to police agencies in April telling them there remains no judicial order that properly restrains you from making arrests under Floridas immigration law, and said he would not tell law enforcement agencies to obey her court order.

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His defiant comments on Fox News and other TV stations about Williams and her ruling drew the judges interest at the time. Based on her comments Tuesday, Williams is still watching Uthmeiers statements on TV.

Uthmeier appealed her contempt order in late July, as well as her additional injunction on enforcing the law.

Tuesdays hearing, a continuation of days of witness testimony about the environmental impacts of Alligator Alcatraz, was at times testy. The judge, who is weighing claims by the Miccosukee Tribe and environmental groups that the Trump administration skirted federal environmental regulations when it built the site, pushed for answers about federal involvement at Alligator Alcatraz.

She pressed the director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for more clarity on how state troopers are engaging in immigration enforcement activities.

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She also pushed an attorney for the Department of Homeland Security about whether there is a legal agreement between the state and federal governments regulating oversight at Alligator Alcatraz. He told her there was no agreement, saying the various 287(g) agreements with state agencies govern the site. Under the 287g program, state officers are trained and certified to perform limited federal immigration duties. Florida officials have not yet said how many certified officers are working at the immigration detention site.

Williams asked for the name of the warden in charge of Alligator Alcatraz. State and federal lawyers couldnt answer, but said they would find out.

Williams, who issued a ruling last week halting construction at Alligator Alcatraz for two weeks, is expected to wrap up a multi-day hearing Wednesday afternoon. She is expected to rule on a motion by the plaintiffs to temporarily shut down operations at the immigration detention center until a thorough environmental review can be conducted.

Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau staff writer Ana Ceballos contributed to this report.
BRIDGEWATER, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY)  New York State Police are continuing to investigate an accident on Monday that killed a pedestrian from Utica.

New York State Police were called to State Route 8 near Mapledale Road in the Town of Bridgewater at approximately 11:50 pm on Monday, August 11. A preliminary investigation found that the car  being driven by 71-year-old Lysle Jones of Leonardsville  was traveling southbound on Route 8.

At the same time, a pedestrian  identified as 50-year-old Ju Nine  crossed in front of Jones vehicle. Jones vehicle struck Nine, and they were pronounced dead at the scene.

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At this time, the investigation by New York State Troopers is still ongoing.

New York State Police were assisted at the scene by the Bridgewater Fire Department.

This is an ongoing investigation. We will provide more information as it becomes available to us.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com.
Adversaries fear of the U.S. military is what makes tough negotiations like the one President Donald Trump is scheduled to have with Russian President Vladimir Putin possible, Vice President JD Vance told U.S. troops stationed in England on Wednesday.

Vances comments come as hes spent the past several days meeting with multiple European leaders in preparation for Trumps meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, with Putin in an attempt to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

"You guys make that possible," Vance, a former Marine, told U.S. troops stationed at Royal Air Force Base Fairford. "You guys are the reason why we can go into a negotiation with strength. You guys are the reason why we have leverage in these conversations with world leaders. Because they know that if we cut a deal, it is backed up by the finest fighting force anywhere in the world. And that is what makes your job so important."

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Vladimir Putin To Return To Us For The First Time In A Decade

Vice President JD Vance shakes hands with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during a meeting at Chevening House Aug. 8, 2025, in Sevenoaks, England.

"The fact that people are impressed by you, the fact that so many people are frankly afraid of you is why we're able to do what we do as an administration," Vance said.

Royal Air Force Base Fairford is home to the U.S. Air Forces 501st Combat Support Wing and the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron. It is also paramount for U.S. Air Force operations and serves as Air Force Global Strike Command's preferred bomber forward operating base in Europe.

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The Air Force routinely sends bomber aircraft to the military base as part of Bomber Task Force Europe 25-2 to train with NATO allies. For example, multiple Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers from Fairford participated in an exercise with Germany and Romania over NATOs eastern flank in March 2022  just after Putin launched his invasion into Ukraine.

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Roughly 10,000 U.S. troops are based in the U.K., according to foreign policy think-tank Council on Foreign Relations.

Vance told troops that he had just wrapped up a call with approximately 30 European leaders, coming on the heels of various meetings with other European allies about Ukraine talks in recent days.

Summit With Putin Set To Top Trumps Agenda This Week As Ukraine War Takes Center Stage

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spar during Oval Office meeting in February.

A Saturday meeting with representatives of Ukraine and other European allies led to "significant progress" on ending the conflict in Ukraine, a U.S. official told Fox News Digital. More details on the discussions were not available.

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But Vance said in a Sunday interview that he informed European leaders the U.S. is "done with the funding of the Ukraine war business," and that they must take on more of the burden in resolving the war.

"What we said to Europeans is simply, First of all, this is in your neck of the woods. This is in your back door. You guys have got to step up and take a bigger role in this thing, and if you care so much about this conflict, you should be willing to play a more direct and a more substantial way in funding this war yourself," Vance told Fox News Sunday.

Trump told reporters Monday that hed be able to tell almost instantly if Putin is serious about negotiating a deal or not, and that hed keep European leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the loop after the meeting.

"If its a fair deal, I will reveal it to the European Union leaders and the NATO leaders and also to President Zelenskyy," Trump said. "I may say, Lots of luck, keep fighting, or I may say we can make a deal."

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Trump, Putin Will Hold First In-person Meeting Since Ukraine Invasion Next Week In Alaska





Original article source: Vance: Adversaries are afraid of US military, and that makes tough talks like Putin possible
YSRCP chief and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi avoids speaking about voting discrepancies in Andhra Pradesh because Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is in "touch" with him through Telangana CM Revanth Reddy "on a hotline." "Why doesn't Rahul Gandhi talk about Arvind Kejriwal?.. Kejriwal himself lost the MLA election. Rahul Gandhi doesn't talk about Andhra because Chandrababu is in touch with him through Telangana CM Revanth Reddy through a hotline. So, what should I say about Rahul Gandhi, who himself is not sincere?" Reddy said. He also questioned why Rahul Gandhi, while talking about "vote-chori" in Delhi, did not mention the alleged 12.5 per cent vote difference between what was announced and what was counted in Andhra Pradesh. "Mr Rahul Gandhi, when in Delhi, talks about Vote Chori. Why doesn't he speak about the 12.50 per cent vote difference between what was announced and what was counted in Andhra Pradesh? The difference was 2.5 per cent," he said. Earlier in the day, Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi continued his attack on the Centre, saying the theft of one's vote is also the theft of one's rights and identity. He shared a fictional video on X showing two people, purportedly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), colluding with Election Commission officials to cast votes in someone else's name. In the video, the two are seen leaving a polling booth after casting fake votes, with one of them saying, "this is such a good arrangement, victory is assured now." When the real voter, 50-year-old 'Garib Das', arrives with his voter ID, he is told his vote has already been cast. His wife is told the same. The video ends with the two men seen colluding with the Booth Level Officer (BLO) and takes a swipe at the Election Commission, calling it the "Election Chori Aayog." (ANI)
US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday took another detour from his high-profile holiday in the UK to visit American forces stationed in the country and praise their "courage".

Speaking after taking part in calls with European leaders and US President Donald Trump about the war in Ukraine, Vance said the US troops' presence was essential to helping to end the fighting.

Trump is to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Alaska "to try to achieve an end to this terrible war in Russia and Ukraine", Vance told US troops stationed at the UK's air force base in Fairford, Gloucestershire in southwest England.

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"You guys make that possible. You guys are the reason why we can go into a negotiation with strength," Vance said.

"Nothing that we do as an administration is possible without the hard work, the courage and the skill that you guys bring to the job," he added.

He addressed the troops after calls with Trump and European leaders ahead of the Alaska summit, aimed at convincing the US leader to respect Kyiv's interests in the talks.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Wednesday that there was now a "viable" chance for a ceasefire after over three years since Russia's February 2023 invasion of Ukraine.

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Vance arrived in the UK on August 8 with his wife and three children, only to be met by protests from residents in the Cotswolds countryside.

He has spent much of his time in meetings with UK officials, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who hosted Vance at his country retreat in Chevening in Kent, southeast of London over the weekend.

On Wednesday, Vance reportedly had breakfast with Nigel Farage, leader of the anti-immigrant Reform UK party, which is topping the current electoral polls.

He met late Tuesday with Conservative Party justice spokesman Robert Jenrick, but has not managed to schedule face-to-face talks with the Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, The Times newspaper reported.

Vance is reportedly heading next to Scotland with his family for several days.

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VIRGINIA (WFXR)  The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is hosting virtual training sessions to help applicants for the new Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant program.

The Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant is designed to assist farmers and timber landowners with certain losses directly related to Hurricane Helene that are not covered by other federal disaster assistance programs.

Officials say Virginia farmers and timberland owners who sustained damage or a loss of certain commodities due to Hurricane Helene are encouraged to attend a training session as they prepare to submit their application.

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Two virtual training sessions are scheduled for:

Tues. Aug. 26, 2025, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Wed. Aug. 27, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The training sessions will provide an overview of the program, including how to create and register an account on the online portal, as well as how to apply for the Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant, according to officials.

Based on United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) eligibility criteria, VDACS plans to make a disaster recovery application available to eligible agricultural and forestry landowners in 27 designated localities to include the counties of Bedford, Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, Wythe; and the independent cities of Bristol, Covington, Danville, Galax, Norton, and Radford.

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Gods Pit Crew unveils new home for first responders family after Hurricane Helene

VDACS is currently working with USDA to finalize the grant program and develop a new online application portal. Once approved by USDA, the registration and application period will be announced.

To join one of the virtual training sessions, please visit www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about-farm-recovery-block-grant.shtml.

For program details, eligibility criteria, or general questions, please visit www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about-farm-recovery-block-grant.shtml.

Eligible applicants should begin to prepare to submit their application by gathering the following documentation:

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 W-9 Form

 Federal Tax ID information for all owners, shareholders, or beneficiaries

 Tax Parcel ID

 Parcel Map

 Farm Service Agency (FSA) Farm Number

 FSA 578 Form

 Copy of Schedule F or other tax documentation demonstrating farming income

 Photographic evidence of damage or destruction to greenhouses, barns, and packing houses, silos, and other farm infrastructure that had a crop or livestock present in the structure within 12 months prior to the weather event

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 Photographic evidence of damage or destruction to commercial aquaculture infrastructure

 Photographic evidence of damage or destruction to farm roads, bridges, or culverts that provide direct access to a crop production area or livestock production area that was in production within 12 months of the weather event

 Documentation or evidence of harvested crops that were destroyed or crops that remained unharvested due to a loss of market (i.e. unsold crop that was destroyed because the market became unavailable because of the weather event)

 Documentation of ownership of private timberland, with a minimum of 10 contiguous acres, which sustained moderate, severe, or very severe damage due to the storm

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 Insurance adjustment reports and/or proof of insurance payments related to farm infrastructure losses

 Invoices demonstrating replacement costs for certain farm infrastructure or third-party vendor estimates for repair or replacement costs

 Documentation of application to, or payment received from, any other USDA indemnity or recovery program as a result of Hurricane Helene

 Documentation of salvage payments received, or deductions taken on taxes from agricultural or timber damage, loss, or timber casualty

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To receive Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant funding, certain producers must agree to acquire and maintain USDA Risk Management coverage for a period of two crop years for market loss, future economic loss, plasticulture, and aquaculture claims.

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A Las Vegas funeral home has shut down after authorities accused it of failing to cremate bodies promptly, sometimes leaving remains for months in unsanitary conditions that one neighbor said caused the business to smell like death.

The Nevada State Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services revoked the license of McDermotts Funeral Home and Creation Services last week, finding that the business had not cremated or properly disposed of eight bodies in a reasonable period of time.

One body was kept at the facility for over 10 months before being cremated, according to officials.

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The smell was straight up death, Daran Denny, who owns a tattoo shop nearby, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. I was a medic for 10 years, and I know what death smells like.

McDermotts owner, Chris Grant, said delays in processing were a result of waiting for approval from Clark County Social Services to pay for the treatment of bodies that went unclaimed or abandoned. The Independent has contacted the agency for comment.

Inspectors described scenes of bodies going months without cremation and leaking fluids onto floor in documents pulling license of Las Vegas funeral home, which owner contests (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Human nature is: Funeral Home got closed. I bet they were doing some scummy stuff, he told the paper. Nobody thinks that me and my staff lost everything. I just lost a 25-year career. I just lost a business that Ive been building for 8 years. I just lost the ability to even provide for my family.

During a February 2024 site visit, an inspector found eight bodies that hadnt been swiftly processed  Pamala Middlebrooks, Joseph Vocatura, Debi Vince, Catherine Lane-Novak, Lonna Lonning, Teresa John, Lawrence Ponteri and Edward Elliot  all of which had sat in refrigeration units for two months or more.

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Investigators then found that in all eight cases, the funeral home hadnt filed death records within the lawful 72 hours of death or receiving the bodies, either.

Las Vegas funeral home had complaints dating back to 2021 with state officials (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

One inspector that year described seeing three coolers containing numerous bodies that were leaking blood and bodily fluids.

A visit also revealed fluids of a body had dripped onto a body on a lower shelf and onto the floor, according to documents obtained by KLAS.

A McDermotts general manager told the outlet the inspections were baseless, and the funeral board denied the business, which had complaints dating back to 2021 with regulators, the opportunity for corrective action.
DENVER (KDVR)  Emergency responders are on the scene of a crash where a vehicle drove into a house on Wednesday morning, according to a post on X from West Metro Fire Rescue.

The crash occurred on West Ontario Avenue in Jefferson County.

$13.5M house with parts of old Colorado mine for sale in Crested Butte

Nobody was injured in the crash, West Metro Fire Rescue said.

South Metro Fire Rescue also responded to the scene and has crews helping to stabilize and shore the area where the vehicle crashed.

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FOX31 has a crew on the way to the scene of the crash.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, which is one of the largest immigrant detention facilities in the western U.S. (Photo by Grace Deng/Washington State Standard)

A man who was held in a federal detention facility after Whitefish police pulled him over for an allegedly faulty taillight in April has filed a lawsuit alleging racial profiling and a violation of his constitutional rights against the city of Whitefish, Whitefish Police Chief Bridger Kelch, and Officer Michael Hingiss, who conducted the traffic stop.

Beker Rengifo Del Castillo, 33, is a Venezuelan citizen who was leaving a job near Whitefish Lake on April 24 when Hingiss stopped him, according to the lawsuit, allegedly for a broken brake light. Hingiss called Customs and Border Protection, and Del Castillo was left in the custody of a Customs and Border Protection officer and subsequently taken to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Tacoma, Washington, a horrific and traumatic experience, according to court documents.

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Whitefish City Attorney Angela Jacobs told the Daily Montanan in an email that the city cannot comment on active litigation.

The lawsuit was filed in federal district court in Missoula. Del Castillo is represented by Upper Seven Law.

In the lawsuit, Del Castillos attorneys allege that Hingiss called Customs and Border Protection because Beker only speaks Spanish and Border Patrol may want to check him, despite Del Castillo providing proof of his lawful presence in the United States in the form of his valid REAL ID compliant drivers license.

According to the complaint, Del Castillo entered the United States in July 2024 through the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela Parole Program. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services approved Del Castillos application for work authorization on July 23, 2024, and issued him a Social Security number.

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Del Castillo was leaving a work site with a coworker, in separate vehicles, this spring when Hingiss followed behind the two cars. According to the complaint, Hingiss called Customs and Border Protection due to a language barrier, but then left Del Castillo with a federal officer to continue the immigration investigation. The complaint states that the Border Patrol agent noted that Del Castillo may have legal status.

Del Castillos story shows why untrained municipal police should not masquerade as federal immigration cops, the lawsuit states.

Following his transfer to an ICE detention facility, Del Castillo was held until April 30, and then released with no place to stay and no way to get home.

Because of this incident, (Del Castillo) is reluctant to leave his home and attempts to avoid all contact with law enforcement, fearing he will again be detained and incarcerated based on discrimination and without cause, the complaint states. (He) quit his jobs to avoid the risk of being racially profiled and incarcerated without basis while driving to and from work.

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According to the complaint, the Whitefish Police Department has a policy about immigration violations that Hingiss broke while detaining Del Castillo and calling Border Patrol. The policies include prohibiting officers from detaining any individual, for any length of time, for a civil violation of federal immigration laws or a related civil warrant; and no one who is otherwise ready to be released should continue to be detained only because questions about the individuals status are unresolved.

The policies, according to the lawsuit, also state that an officer must notify a supervisor when detaining someone for an immigration violation, and seek approval before conducting an arrest for an alleged immigration offense and before transferring an individual to federal immigration authorities.

During a Whitefish City Council meeting in May, Police Chief Kelch told councilors the city had policies that that strictly prohibit biased-based policing and improper profiling, according to reporting by the Flathead Beacon. Kelch also stated that we did not call Border Patrol for interpretation services.

The lawsuit seeks actual, general and punitive damages and legal costs from the city of Whitefish and the police officers.

This article was first published by the Daily Montanan, part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Daily Montanan maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Darrell Ehrlick for questions: info@dailymontanan.com.
A Venezuelan civic group and several migrants sued federal immigration agencies this week, alleging the Trump administration unlawfully ended Biden-imposed "Temporary Protected Status" for Venezuelans.

The Venezuelan Association of Massachusetts, a progressive group called Democracy Forward, and three migrants filed suit in Boston federal court against the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services challenging what they called President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noems "sudden and unlawful termination" of temporary protected statuses.

In a statement, Democracy Forward said the plaintiffs objected to an alleged April mass email from DHS to TPS migrants stating: "It is time for you to leave the United States."

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The plaintiffs suggested the recipients of the blunt missive have the legal right to remain in the U.S. given their work-permitting and other related documentation they may have applied for.

Federal Judge Finds 'Racial And Discriminatory Animus' In Trump Move To Cancel Temporary Protected Status

They further argued that TPS revocation requires case-by-case determinations and wrongly disrupts lives and occupations and risks becoming subject to deportation.

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"As a community-based organization, we have seen firsthand the direct harm this sudden policy inflicts on people who arrived lawfully, complied with every DHS requirement, including the CBP One process, and worked hard to build stable lives for their families," Venezuelan Association of Massachusetts official Carlina Velazquez and Carlos Martin Medina said in a joint statement obtained by Fox News Digital.

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Democracy Forward President Skye Perryman added that the "sudden policy shift" exhibits the "Trump-Vance administrations assault on immigrants who have followed the rules."

"Let me be clear: none of this is about immigration, its about cruelty and the targeting of people in vulnerable circumstances," Perryman claimed.

"Our clients used the CBP One app because DHS required it. To now strip them of their rights and threaten them with deportation is a gross violation of the law and public trust."

Federal Judge Halts Trump Tps Policy, Accuses Dhs Of Making Migrants 'Atone For Their Race'

President Donald Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem

Migrants fleeing Venezuela  effectively a dictatorship since the late Hugo Chavezs 1999 election  were granted special protection by former President Joe Biden in 2021 due to humanitarian concerns.

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Biden then extended TPS in 2023, qualifying about 350,000 more Venezuelan migrants to arrive after the original timeframe imposed.

After Trump took office, Noem revoked the 2023 TPS extension, which set the ball rolling on the eventual cancellation of protected status for Venezuelan migrants.

In April, Obama-appointed Judge Edward Milton Chen issued an injunction blocking Noems move to end TPS. The Supreme Court overruled Chen in a brief, unsigned order in May, allowing Noems timeline to resume.

While unsigned, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson noted her dissent.

But Chen then followed up in June with a narrow ruling noting that preexisting work permits and the like should not be canceled retroactively.

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A three-judge Ninth Circuit panel in Pasadena, California, last heard arguments during a July appeal by the Trump administration during which one judge reportedly called the president's comments "arguably racist."

In comments to Fox News Digital, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the lawsuit is "a desperate attempt to keep half a million poorly vetted illegal aliens in this country and undermine President Trumps constitutional authority to enforce Americas immigration laws."

"The Biden administration abused its parole authority to create an industrial-scale catch-and-release scheme, and the Trump administration is correcting that," she added.

"This lawsuit is an insult to the tens of millions of Americans who gave this president a mandate to restore safety and common sense to our immigration system."





Original article source: Venezuelan migrants, progressive group sue Trump admin after Noem nixes Biden-era protected status
One of the only high temperature records not broken/tied yesterday came to us from Saranac Lake, New York where it was still a super spicy, stuffy, and steamy day of weather. A quick note about the St. Johnsbury high temperature record, though. The Fairbanks Museum called up the Burlington National Weather Service at 4:30 PM Tuesday afternoon to let them know that the temperature had crawled from 94 to 95 degrees after the official reporting time for high temperatures passed. However, since the 95 degree readout came after the official reporting time of 4 PM, that 95 degree high will readout as Wednesdays high temperature for St. Johnsbury instead of Tuesday. We know its very odd, but we have been in contact with the National Weather Service in Burlington to confirm all of this intense, convoluted, complicated weather data from yesterday.

The Queen City hit an official high of 98 degrees (no, not the band) which not only shattered the old daily high temperature record, but it was also a top 10 hottest day for Burlington. Moreover, all these new record highs ousted some pretty old records from back in the 1940s and 1980s. Very impressive!

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A very difficult woman has been sentenced for orchestrating four murders because she was annoyed by her neighbor, Law and Crime reported.

What crimes did Carrie Jones commit?

Carrie Jones sentencing comes after her husband, Jason Jones, was convicted of killing Gene Twiford, 86; his wife, 85-year-old Janet Twiford; their daughter, 55-year-old Dana Twiford; and neighbor Michele Eberling, 53. Prosecutors at Carrie Jones sentencing stipulated that she "did not pull the trigger that killed Gene Twiford. But she pulled the strings that led to his death." "Would we even be here if it weren't for Carrie Jones?" prosecutors questioned later in the proceedings.

Carrie was arrested in 2022 shortly after the murders, which took place on Aug. 4 of that year in Laurel, Nebraska. The brutal crimes followed what Carrie insisted was a long campaign of harassment on Gene Twifords behalf. "This s--t's gotta stop, or I'm gonna kill him," Carrie reportedly told an investigator after her arrest. Carrie and Jason proceeded to text about plans to kill Jones, with Carrie at one point telling her husband, "That would be [a] good hit."

Related: Grieving Mother Eviscerates Daughter's Killer at Sentencing

How was Gene Twiford killed?

According to court records, Carrie and Jason had a violent argument on the night of Aug. 3, 2022, during which she insisted Jason deal with Gene Twiford while using a gun and a knife to threaten him. The following night, Jason broke into the Twiford home and shot Gene dead before realizing that Janet and Dana were also present. He killed them, as well, before setting the home on fire. Jason then went to the home of neighbor Michelle Eberling and repeated the macabre task, not because Eberling was involved in any dispute but because Carrie believed she was weird.

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During Carries trial, Jason described his wife as a very difficult woman who told him if he did not kill Gene Twiford then she would do it herself. He testified to returning home on the evening of Aug. 4, 2022, after suffering severe burns while igniting Twiford and Eberlings homes. After confirming to his wife that hed killed four people, both Carrie and Jason decided it would be inadvisable to seek medical attention for his burns. She instead went to work, disposing of Jasons clothes and deleting incriminating text messages.

What crimes were Carrie and Jason Jones found guilty of?

Jason Jones was arrested on Aug. 5, 2022, after investigators stormed the couples property. His burns were so bad that he was first airlifted to a hospital before being booked into jail. Carrie was arrested the following day. In September 2023, Jason was found guilty of four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree arson, and four counts of using a firearm to commit a felony.

Carrie has been found guilty of one count of first-degree murder in connection with the death of Gene Twiford, evidence tampering, and accessory to a felony. First degree murder convictions carry a mandatory life sentence in the state. Both Carrie and Jason are scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20.

Related: Skydiver Dead After Fatal Mid-Air Collision at Group Event

'Very Difficult Woman' Guilty of Organizing Murder of Neighbor She Found 'Annoying' first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025
Happy Wednesday! Its a mild and muggy start to our midweek forecast with mostly clear to partly cloudy skies. Theres also some patchy dense fog that has developed in some river valley communities. Otherwise, were watching a cold front to our west this morning. It will fire off a few shower chances in northern New York to start the day, but a bulk of the action will arrive for the afternoon.

Highs will race into the upper 80s to near 90 again today, but moisture surges in ahead of that cold front resulting in a very humid afternoon with dew points hovering close to 70. That air you can wear and high heat will clash with our incoming cold front between lunchtime and sunset. In fact, a heat advisory remains in effect across the Champlain Valley until 8 PM tonight.

You should expect scattered showers, gusty torrential downpours, and some strong storms through at least the evening drive home. It wouldnt be impossible for one or two of those storms to become severe today with the biggest hazards being torrential rain and damaging wind gusts.

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Overnight into Thursday morning, our cold front will be slow to clear. In fact, its still mild and muggy by Thursday morning with lows only in the 60s to near 70. Well return to the upper 70s to low 80s Thursday afternoon with that cold front continuing to kick up some showers in southern Vermont to the Upper Valley. Meanwhile, its a drier and sunnier day north but its sticky across the board. Its not until Thursday night through Friday morning that we finally see a breakthrough with humidity.

Highs will head for the upper 70s to low 80s Friday afternoon, but with a totally different feel to the day compared to Thursdays upper 70s to low 80s. Were much less humid to wrap up the week with Canadian high pressure just to our north. Cooler, drier air will spill in via a northerly wind throughout Friday making for one of the most comfortable days of the week. Enjoy!

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44.
Ron DeSantis is under fire for turning against his fellow service members and letting executioners slaughter five veterans this year alone.

The governor, who served in the U.S. Navy as a commissioned officer from 2004 to 2010, has called Florida the most veteran-friendly state in the nation. But during his reign, nine people have been executedincluding five veterans.

Florida administers executions by lethal injection or electric chair at the execution chamber located at Florida State Prison.

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Veterans statewide are now pleading with DeSantis to stop the executions of fellow former service members, all of whom devoted part of their life to protecting the country.

Veterans are begging Ron DeSantis to stop the executions of over two dozen veterans on death row. / Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos / Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos/Getty Images

We can never be a veteran friendly state when our leader is signing off on their deaths at the hands of the State, more than 130 vets wrote in a letter to DeSantis. We urge you now to lead from a place of bravery, to return to the honor code from your service, and to stop setting the executions of our fellow soldiers.

Nearly 30 veterans are sitting on death row, waiting for execution, including 67-year-old Kayle Bates who is set to be killed on Aug. 19. The letter implores DeSantis to prevent Bates death.

We write to you today as fellow veterans. We write to you to highlight a disturbing trend, and one that only you have the power to correct, the letter begins.

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During DeSantis term, five veterans have been executed: Bobby Joe Long, Duane Owen, Edward James, Jeffrey Hutchinson, and Edward Zakrzewski. Bates is set to become the tenth on Aug. 19, followed by Curtis Windom on Aug. 28.

Ron DeSantis has called Florida the most

DeSantis served in the Navy after graduating from Yale University and Harvard Law School. He worked his way up to lieutenant during his time in the Navy and served at Guantanamo Bay and in Iraq. He was honorably discharged from active duty in 2010.

The military instills in all of us an unbreakable code of honor: leave no one behind. That obligation does not end at the end of ones duty, the letter reads. To a great degree that is where it begins for our mentally injured soldiers, Marines, sailors, and airmen.

It continues: To execute a veteran who was broken by war and left without adequate care is not justice. It is a failure of duty. It is the final abandonment.

Gov. Ron DeSantis is a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy from 2004 to 2010. / Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos / Rober Wimmer/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Hutchinson, a 62-year-old veteran with severe mental problems, was executed in May for the murders of his girlfriend and her three children. His lawyer said during his trial that he suffered from serious health problems from the war in Iraq, post-traumatic stress disorder, and paranoia. He long claimed that he was innocent and pointed to conspiracy theories to explain the murders.

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Since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976, Florida has carried out more executions this year than any other state and most under any governor.

When reached for comment, DeSantis Communications Director Alex Lanfranconi told the Daily Beast after publication: A simple trick to avoid execution in Florida is to not murder people.
They claim that privatisation has threatened their livelihood by reducing their salary from 23 thousand to just 15 thousand with few benefits.

Since day one, all opposition parties, including All India Anna Dravidian Progressive Federation (AIADMK), BJP and ruling DMK alliance parties like the communists and VCK, have supported the sanitary workers' protest.

On Wednesday, cadres of the Paatali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and BSK party met to show solidarity with sanitary workers who have been protesting outside the Greater Chennai Corporation office for 13 days.

"Police say those who come to support the sanitary workers' protest will be booked. Our party has faced many cases before, and we didn't fear them," said PMK General Secretary, Murali Shankar

"Here, sanitary workers are on protest for 13 continuous days. In the coronavirus time, these sanitary workers worked hard. The ruling party proves its ineptitude by the privatisation of sanitary works in Chennai," added the PMK General Secretary.

The protests erupted after GCC officials informed the NULM workers on July 31 that they would now have to coordinate with the private agencies. Matters escalated when sanitation workers on the morning shift reported for duty on August 1 and were denied entry.

In response, many of the NULM-affiliated workers, several with over a decade of service, have boycotted work and joined the demonstrations.

Multiple trade unions, including the All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), Left Trade Union Congress (LTUC), Labour Progressive Union (LPU) have joined in on the protest, all of them expressing strong opposition to the privatisation drive. They have called on the GCC to immediately reverse its decision and ensure the job security and rights of all sanitation workers. (ANI)
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The Kent County Veterans Honor Guard is launching a new effort to recruit more women to serve.

The organization has about 90 active members, five of whom are women.

Giving veterans their final farewell is something new commander Courtney Peden holds close to her heart.

We get to give that veteran their final solute in this world and we get to hold their memory of service, Peden said.

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Kent County veterans called to honor brothers and sisters at funerals

Peden officially became the first female commander of the organization in Kent County in July.

As women we are almost always invisible veterans and it has been a really good opportunity for me to get my face out there and to try to encourage other women to join and be a part of the military and veteran community, Peden said.

She served in the U.S. Navy working as a cryptologist and knows what its like to be in a male-dominated field.

Courtney Peden during her time in the U.S. Navy. (Courtesy)

Courtney Peden during her time in the U.S. Navy. (Courtesy)

I think some men kind of approach you with, Think youre gonna bat your eyes and get out of work? and you really have to prove yourself. You have to go over and beyond to show them that youre here to pull your weight and be shoulder to shoulder with them, Peden said.

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Volunteering in the honor guard since 2021, she saw there werent many women. As some members pass away and others are aging, the new commander says recruiting new members that represent the entire military is important.

So many women veterans even hold an imposter syndrome where they really dont feel like they fit the image or the role of a veteran, and we have come together as a group to really try and unite one another, Peden said.

Father-son duo run 30 miles for Folds of Honor

In just the Grand Rapids area, the organization attends an average of 600 funerals each year. Peden said even being able to attend a smaller number of funerals can make a difference.

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We hope that you can achieve about 18 funerals in the year but Im happy to support anyone. If you can do six funerals for the year, thats six more funerals we have help with, Peden said.

Despite all the hours of work, Peden says it is the least they can do for the sacrifices the veterans have made serving their country.

It is a great honor and a privilege to be there for their families and these veterans, Peden said.

If you want to learn about becoming a member of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard, you can visit the organizations website.

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(NewsNation)  Veterans will no longer be exempt from work requirement rules for food stamps under President Donald Trumps new tax law, leaving many worried about how they will find employment.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is the federal aid program formerly known as food stamps, currently allows work exemptions for veterans, but that will soon end under legislation signed into law last month.

Starting in 2026, veterans will have to prove they are working, volunteering, participating in job training or looking for work for at least 80 hours a month to keep their food stamps beyond three months unless they qualify for another exemption, such as having certain disabilities, reported Stateline.

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About 1.2 million veterans live in households that participate in the SNAP program, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

What Im trying to do is get settled into, you know, stabilize into an apartment. I have the credentials to get a job. So its not like Im not gonna look for a job. I have to work. Im in transition, and the obstacles dont make it easy, Darryl Chavis, a former Army service member, told Stateline.

Which states are looking to ban soda, snack purchases for SNAP recipients?

Nobody even came to help me, Chavis, who said he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder from his service, told the outlet.

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Veterans have lower employment rates largely due to the fact that fewer veterans are looking for work, since they have more health conditions from serving and lower educational attainment, according to the Center.

Veterans may face barriers to employment, such as little work experience beyond military service, trouble finding employment that matches their skills, discrimination by employers or lack of access to support services, they said.

In addition, Black and Latino veterans experience higher unemployment rates than white veterans, the group states.

Coffee recalled from Dollar General over glass contamination concerns

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While many veterans say the new work requirements dont take into consideration the additional barriers they face, those who support the measures say eligibility changes are necessary to stop people who could be working from abusing the system, Stateline reported.

Most of the people that are in this category live in households with other people that have incomes, and so there really isnt a chronic food shortage here, Robert Rector, a senior research fellow at The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, told the outlet. We have tens of thousands of free food banks that people can go to. So its just a requirement to nudge these people in the proper direction, and it should no longer go unenforced.

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Check out cool cars and support veterans at a Corvette car show in Leclaire.

FOR VETS, a not-for-profit organization, is hosting Vettes on the River on Saturday, August 23 from 10:30 a.m.  3 p.m. on the LeClaire Levee in LeClaire. All money raised from the 2025 Vettes on the River event will be donated to Quad City Vietnam veterans organizations. Corvettes should be on site by 10 a.m. that day. Vietnam veterans will hold a flag raising ceremony at 10:30 a.m. to salute all veterans and active military.

Over 250 Corvettes from across the nation are expected to attend the show and spotlight old and new Corvettes along the Mississippi. There will be a LeClaire Mayors Choice Award, trophies for each C generation, farthest driven and a club award for the club with the most in attendance.

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Preregister by August 15 by clicking here. Vettes can also show up on the day of the event. Admission is free for spectators.

Email Vettesontheriver@gmail.com for more information or click here.

The schedule for August 23 includes:

8 a.m.  Gates Open for Corvette parking

8 a.m.  Breakfast at the Levee Pavilion

8 a.m.-10:30 a.m.  Registration

9 a.m.  Raffle Drawings, Silent Auction and 50/50 starts

10:15 a.m.  Call to Assemble

10:30 a.m.  Lunch at the Levee Pavilion  south end of Levee

10:30 a.m.  Color Guard Ceremony

11 a.m.  First Riverboat Twilight Cruise; others at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

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2 p.m.  Awards Presentation

50/50 Drawing, raffle items, silent auction

C Class Veterans Choice Awards

LeClaire Mayors Choice Award

Farthest Driven Award

Donation Presentation to Vietnam Veterans

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Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky believe there is a "viable" chance of a ceasefire in Ukraine but Vladimir Putin must "prove he is serious about peace," Downing Street has said.

The UK prime minister held a breakfast meeting with the Ukrainian President ahead of a summit between US President Donald Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.

No 10 said Sir Keir and Zelensky agreed there was "a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine" at their meeting.

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Zelensky and other European leaders, who are not attending the meeting in Alaska, held a joint call with Trump on Wednesday to reiterate their position.

A red carpet was rolled out for Zelensky's arrival at No 10, and he was pictured strolling through the Downing Street rose garden with the PM in a carefully co-ordinated show of support from the UK, scheduled just 24 hours before the summit in Alaska.

Neither leader made any comment themselves to waiting reporters in Downing Street, maintaining a tactical diplomatic silence.

When leaders leave Number 10 they usually walk alone to their car, but today Starmer walked with Zelensky, giving him a hug and a handshake before his departure in an important show of unity.

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The prime minister has not said that much to the media over the last few days, leaving commentary on meetings to official scripted handouts, partly in order to avoid saying anything that might appear to be a split with the US.

The main tactic within Downing Street in the past week or so has been to get Trump on board - to make sure the US president has the words of Europe and of Ukraine ringing in his ears when he sits down with Putin on Friday.

Following his departure, Zelensky posted on social media thanking Sir Keir for his support in a "good, productive meeting".

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"We also discussed in considerable detail the security guarantees that can make peace truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killings and engage in genuine, substantive diplomacy," he wrote.

Zelensky added the two discussed weapons partnerships, including investment in drone production, and the One Hundred Year Partnership Agreement with the UK, which he said is set to be ratified this month.

In a statement Downing Street said the two men had "looked ahead to tomorrow's talks between President Trump and President Putin in Alaska, which present a viable chance to make progress as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about peace".

In Russia, Putin told officials he welcomes Donald Trump's "energetic and sincere" efforts to end the Ukraine war.

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He added that the US was seeking to "stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all the sides involved in the conflict to create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, in Europe and in the world in general, if we at the subsequent stages arrive at agreements in the area of strategic offensive arms control".

The Kremlin has announced that Putin and Trump will hold a joint press conference after their meeting on Friday evening.

But Trump, speaking to Fox News on Thursday afternoon, said there would only be a joint press conference if the meeting was a success -- adding there's a "25% chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting", and suggesting sanctions on Russia could follow.

Trump said a successful meeting would set up a second meeting, potentially with Zelensky, and repeated the idea there'll have to be a "give and take" of boundaries between Kyiv and Moscow.

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Ukraine has insisted that ceding territory would be unacceptable, while Russia wants to maintain control of land it has seized, including Crimea, and also wants assurances that Ukraine will not join the Nato military alliance.

Addressing a virtual meeting of the European leaders following the call with Trump, Sir Keir said a lasting ceasefire needed security guarantees, adding the coalition had "credible" military plans ready that could be used in the event of a ceasefire.

He said the leaders of the group were also ready to increase economic pressure on Russia if necessary, for example through increasing sanctions, and credited Trump's efforts for progress on the issue.

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Sir Alex Younger, the head of MI6 between 2014 and 2020, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "It's true that Donald Trump is the only one who can solve this," but he warned "Putin is playing him".

"They're all talking about the wrong thing," he said, adding that the US strategy of resetting bilateral relations with Russia was "a total fantasy" that failed to recognise Putin's aim of the "total subjugation" of Ukraine.
Niagara Falls police have identified the victim of a fatal crash between an e-bike and a tow truck on Friday.

Crash Investigation Unit (CIU) detectives also said Tuesday that no charges are pending against the tow truck operator.

The victim of the crash has been identified as Scott Read, 59, of the Falls.

Patrol officers were called to the intersection of Ontario Avenue and Lockport Street at around 11:42 a.m. Friday for a report of a crash between a tow truck and a folding e-scooter.

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Officers said when they arrived, they found Read lying in the intersection with severe injuries.

After being treated at the scene, Read was rushed to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

CIU investigators said their preliminary findings, which included a review of video taken from cameras located in the area of the accident, showed that a 2018 Dodge Ram tow truck, traveling west on Ontario Avenue, was passing through the intersection with Lockport Street, with a green light, when it collided with a folding e-scooter that had entered the intersection. The bicyclist was reportedly traveling the wrong way on 16th Street, a one-way roadway, and had made a wide right turn in front of the truck while facing a red light.

Police said the tow truck operator was uninjured in the crash and remained at the scene. CIU investigators said he has been cooperating with their continuing probe of the crash.

New York State Police are also assisting Niagara Falls police with their investigation.
A video showing people jumping into a river as a barge crashes into their wooden boat was filmed in Indonesia, contrary to social media posts claiming it shows a collision involving a military vessel on the Irrawaddy River in war-torn Myanmar. The footage has previously circulated in reports about a deadly boat crash in Indonesia's Central Kalimantan region on July 8, 2025.

"A collision happened when a military tug boat on route to Gaw Wun Port approached a passenger boat for questioning," reads part of the Burmese-language caption of a Facebook video shared on August 9, 2025.

The video -- which accumulated over 500,000 views -- shows a wooden passenger boat caught between a barge and the tug boat pulling it. Passengers are seen jumping into the murky river as the barge collides with their vessel.

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The caption adds the incident took place on the Irrawaddy River between Tagaung and Katha town in central Myanmar.

Screenshot of the false Facebook post captured on August 12, 2025, with a red X added by AFP

The same video was also shared in similar posts on Facebook, after Myanmar's military junta declared it had recaptured strategic towns in the area (archived link).

In another apparent sign of the military's renewed regional offensive, local media outlet Mizzima reported that a flotilla of junta vessels were seen advancing up the Irrawaddy (archived link).

Myanmar has been mired in civil war since a 2021 coup deposed the civilian government, with the military battling a myriad of pro-democracy guerrillas and ethnic armed organisations.

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Junta forces backed by China and Russia have started to claw back ground lost to anti-coup forces who banded together for a string of coordinated offensives in late 2023.

But there have been no official reports of a military vessel colliding with a passenger boat on the Irrawaddy.

Indonesia boat crash

A reverse image search on Google using keyframes from the falsely shared clip led to the same footage published as part of a compilation by video news agency Newsflare on July 8 (archived link).

"Passengers leap into river when coal barge hits wooden boat taxi," reads the title of the compilation, which includes clips of the same incident filmed from different angles and the aftermath.

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According to its description, it was filmed on the Barito River in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, on July 8.

Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared clip (left) and the Newsflare video (right)

The video matches features seen in a Google Maps photo taken near a coal jetty on the Barito River (archived link).

Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared video (left) and a Google Maps photo (right), with similarities highlighted by AFP

Indonesian news outlet Metro TV also reported on the incident on their verified YouTube channel on July 10 (archived link).

According to a July 10 report by Indonesian news agency Antara, the wooden boat carrying 40 passengers experienced an engine failure and drifted into the path of the barge (archived link).

Rescuers were able to recover the bodies of two passengers, with a third victim still missing.

AFP has previously debunked other misinformation related to the unrest in Myanmar.
Vietnamese banks have started imposing additional requirements on Russian companies when processing payments.

Source: The Moscow Times, an independent Amsterdam-based news outlet, citing Kremlin-aligned Russian news outlet RBC

Details: Now, funds can be transferred only in two cases: when the goods are actually delivered to Vietnam, or when a citizen of the republic is among the counterparty company's founders.

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Banks are concerned about secondary Western sanctions over transactions with Russia.

The new requirements, introduced in mid-summer 2025, have led to cases of transfers being delayed or blocked for failing to meet these conditions.

Banks now demand a full set of documents - a contract, invoice and transport and customs papers confirming the transactions link to Vietnam. If no goods are to be shipped to the country, they instead require an "anchor" such as a local founder, an office, or a long-term contract with a Vietnamese partner.

This helps banks prove to the regulator that the transaction is related to the local economy and does not intend to evade sanctions.

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Almost nothing has changed for Russian companies that purchase or process goods in Vietnam, but transactions have become so complicated that businesses have to look for alternatives in other Asian jurisdictions.

Sources told The Moscow Times that Vietnamese banks began tightening conditions in 2024, influenced by the US presidential decree of 22 December 2023 imposing sanctions on transactions benefiting the Russian defence sector, and by the Office of Foreign Assets Controls 12 June 2024 clarification on secondary sanctions.

There is no formal ban on payments without a link to Vietnam, but banks have taken the US measures as a signal of increased caution.

Background: The introduction of US tariffs ranging from 20% to 40% could reduce Vietnam's exports to the United States by a third to US$37 billion.

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The Village of Merton president, along with Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources officials, stressed August 13 that a dam on Bark River is fine, and information causing alarm about its condition was confusing.

"It's in good working order," said Ron Reinowski.

The Hartland Police Department posted this picture of the Merton Millpond Dam.

A day earlier, the Hartland Police Department said in a Facebook post that an emergency action plan had been activated for the Merton Millpond Dam. The post said the dam had a "high potential for failure." The post remained up Aug. 13.

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The post said the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources would be able to reinforce the dam, and residents and businesses along the river should be aware of the potential rise in water levels.

Following news of the post, DNR officials said the department is a regulatory agency, and while it gives technical advice, it does not get involved in reinforcing a dam. The department is "not going to be picking up shovels and bringing in dirt," Reinowski said, concurring.

As for the integrity of the dam, the DNR said it was not a concern, something echoed by the village president.

Neither Village of Hartland nor Waukesha County Emergency Management officials returned several phone calls for comment.

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A sinkhole appeared to be forming near the dam, but it did not appear to create a risk. "With the condition it's in right now, it would be wasting money trying to do anything down inside that hole to stabilize it," Reinowski said.

For now, the area is being fenced off.

According to the National Inventory of Dams, the Merton dam was constructed in 1840 and was last inspected in 2021, when it was found to be in fair condition. It is owned by the Village of Merton.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Village of Merton, DNR say dam is sound, countering Hartland post
A recent CNN segment about controversial pastor Doug Wilson has prompted pushback from religious scholars and advocates who believe that his brand of patriarchal Christian nationalism does not align with the teachings of Jesus  yet is increasingly shaping political and cultural life in the United States.

Wilson, who co-founded the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, or CREC, appeared in an interview with Pamela Brown in which he discussed his vision for a Christian nation and a Christian world and referred to women as the kind of people that people come out of.

Related: People Are Noticing The Font Used In This ICE Recruiting Video Looks Disturbingly Familiar

The segment also featured pastors involved in Wilsons movement who advocated for the repeal of womens right to vote and the implementation of voting by household, and a congregant who stated that she submits to her husband.

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What made the report even more striking, however, was that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promoted it on X with the comment All of Christ for All of Life.

A Pentagon spokesperson later shared that Hegseth is a proud member of a church that is affiliated with CREC and very much appreciates many of Mr. Wilsons writings and teachings.

The CNN segment focused on controversial pastor Doug Wilson got more attention after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promoted it with the comment All of Christ for All of Life. Getty/Pool/CNN

Beyond his views on the role of women in society, Wilson has drawn intense criticism for his views on slavery and homosexuality, his use of derogatory slurs and provacative metaphors and his churchs handling of allegations of sexual abuse.

As Wilsons religious movement gains ground and influence at the highest levels of government, religious scholars and advocates are ringing the alarm about the harm of this approach to Christianity, which they see as light-years away from Christ and his teachings.

Related: Mark Robinson Compared Himself To People In The Bible Right Before Porn Site Scandal

Dont ignore the profound abuse of scripture to justify oppression.

Several Christian scholars say Wilsons theology hinges on a selective reading of scripture designed to enforce male dominance.

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As a professionally and academically trained Bible scholar, I reject Wilsons profound abuse of the Bible in order to promote the systemic oppression of women, people of color, and queer people, said Mattie Mae Motl, whose research focuses on gender and sexuality in the New Testament.

After the CNN segment aired, she posted a video highlighting the ways Wilson and others isolate biblical passages from their historical-cultural and literary context to promote what she sees as a patriarchal, racist and homophobic worldview.

It is a gross distortion of the Biblical text, Motl said. Moreover, these out-of-context passages about submission and men being the head of the household pale in comparison to the number of women, people of color and queer people who are explicitly celebrated for their faithfulness and leadership throughout the Bible.

Theologian Brian Recker noted that patriarchal messages are not hard to find in the Bible, but emphasized that patriarchy is the cultural background of Scripture, not its message  certainly not the message of Jesus.

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If you follow Jesus, you find something else entirely: liberation from systems of domination, Recker said. Jesus defied the patriarchy at every turn.

He pointed to stories of Jesus breaking social conventions by speaking to a Samaritan woman, defending a womans right to sit as a disciple, including women in his traveling ministry and elevating a woman as the first witness to his resurrection. Looking at scripture, you can also find examples of the early church valuing equality and inclusion  welcoming women as leaders, hosts, and deacons and even rejecting patriarchal hierarchy.

Related: You've Heard About The Bizarre WNBA Dildo-Throwing Issue. Heres What We Should Consider.

Jesus was about love, justice and the uplifting of the marginalized, echoed Malynda Hale, an advocate and executive director of The New Evangelicals, a nonprofit focused on promoting inclusivity, justice and compassion in Christianity. To say women shouldnt vote, and submit to their husbands, that they shouldnt lead in the church, or that homosexuality should be criminalized are so clearly not the teachings of Jesus.

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She believes Wilsons version of religion protects power and privilege at the expense of human dignity.

Ive been a Christian my entire life, and this ideology is completely about control, Hale said. It has never been about compassion or love. We have to see this for what it is.

These ideas and teachings can cause serious harm.

While Wilsons ideas might not appear aligned with the values of Jesus, they are deeply embedded in American church history.

I grew up in the Southern Baptist denomination, where thoughts and ideas like these are mainstream, Motl said. It is vital to understand just how pervasive these disillusioned and ignorant beliefs are.

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For author and advocate Tia Levings, the CNN segment with Wilson offered nothing new  only a broader audience for beliefs shes seen in practice for decades.

I was not allowed to vote back in 2000 and 2004. Head-of-household voting was taught as Gods best recommendation for civic engagement, she said, pointing to the framework behind calls to repeal the 19th Amendment.

Levings spent two years as a member of a CREC church when she and her then-husband were seeking a close community of like minds in which to raise their family.

But what we discovered is that a close community of like-minded people can also just be a shiny way to say cult, she said. Outsiders were carefully vetted and unwelcome without conversion. All authority flowed through the pastor and elders. Women were silent, children were uniformly obedient. CREC churches emphasize masculinity, power, patriotism and a ruthless dominance over enemies.

Levings believes these kinds of religious movements promote a vengeful Calvinist doctrine that manifests as violence in families. Her own story, which she details in her memoir A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy, includes marital discipline and struggles with directives around headship.

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The CNN segment showed that Wilson and his cronies have continued their ascent on the same core beliefs, Levings added.

How they govern their homes is how they want to govern the country, and the interview emphasized theyre scaling up a practiced and established model, she said.

The political danger affects everyone, not just people of faith.

Those who spoke to HuffPost believe the recent amplification of extreme Christian nationalist rhetoric should alarm everyone  not just people of faith.

These views are not only held by people in power, but quickly gaining traction, Hale said. And this harmful theology thats being used to infiltrate our politics and culture is only going to become more mainstream if we dont push back against it now.

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She believes Wilsons messaging enforces gender hierarchy, condemns entire groups of people for simply existing and promotes authoritarianism  viewpoints she sees influencing our laws, culture and the way people view faith.

What people need to wake up to is the fact that this ideology is no longer confined to church walls, Hale said. We are seeing it spill over into policy, schools, and our everyday lives.

Levings agrees the movements influence is growing and shifting in troubling ways.

CREC and adjacent versions of Christian patriarchy prefer the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus, who they often identify as weak. There are echoes of this perspective in the top levels of the administration, she said, pointing to comments from Hegseth and Donald Trump Jr.

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Levings described Wilsons movement as co-opting mainstream Christianity by utilizing its language, while beneath the surface, adherents beliefs and behavior are far removed from Jesus and his core values of love, service and kindness.

This is not evangelicalism by saving souls and bringing believers to them. This is declaring that members are part of the Christian elect, predestined to be saved and vanquishing their enemies without taking prisoners, Levings explained.

Each year, Wilson celebrates this extreme crusade to wipe out opponents in his militant posture with an annual campaign he calls No Quarter November, Levings added. He is strategic in his pursuit of spreading his Christian nationalist vision  which survivors of his movement have spoken out against.

For those who felt The Handmaids Tale was too close to the truth to be fiction, its because of theonomist men like Wilson, Levings said. He adopts a false humility when he talks about his corner of the vineyard, and the long-term reach he hopes to have, but in reality, he just opened a new church in Washington, D.C. He has influence in the White House and Congress.

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At the same time, more mainstream evangelicals have platformed Wilson and allowed him to warp the narrative of what it means to be Christian in the U.S.

It really shouldnt be up to secular society to watch out for religious extremes in Christianity, but so far, American denominations have done a poor job of holding him accountable, Levings said. If we dont start understanding this threat seriously, it will soon be too late.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
The Virginia National Guard will mobilize 60 soldiers and airmen to provide statewide logistics and administrative support to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with training to begin later this month.

The Guardsmen will not conduct law enforcement operations nor make arrests, the Virginia National Guard stated in an Aug. 8 release. They will be providing manpower to ICE in terms of answering phones, data entry, basic vehicle maintenance, biometric collection and other clerical duties.

[Virginia National Guard] Soldiers and Airmen will report directly to ICE leadership at their assigned duty locations but remain under the control and direction of the Virginia Governor and Adjutant General of Virginia, the release noted.

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The 60 service members will conduct training this month and are expected to be on duty as of early September, although this timeline is liable to change, the release said.

Its logistics and administration and processing, not the field stuff ICE enforcement does, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin told reporters, according to a report by WHRO. I believe strongly that the role of the Virginia National Guard is not law enforcement in this case, its to support the administrative side of things.

National Guard troops serve under the authority of their respective state governors, with few exceptions to this rule. In July, the Defense Department announced that Guard units supporting ICE would do so under Title 32 status, meaning that, although their role is being federally funded, the Guardsmen will remain under the control of their state governors.

Through active planning and collaboration with our ICE partners, the Department determined that specific operational needs may require direct interaction with individuals in ICE custody, Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell said in a July 25 statement. This led to a reevaluation of DoD military personnel duty status, with Title 32 status providing the necessary authorities for these tasks.

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Although levels of current National Guard support to ICE are unprecedented, the Guard has actively cooperated with law enforcement agencies across different states for decades performing non-law enforcement related tasks.

The California National Guard, for example, has a robust counter-drug task force in which Guardsmen provide logistical support to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, including as backup to CBP at international ports of entry, which has been strongly supported by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Similar task forces exist in other states, such as Colorado, where the Guard supports law enforcement with analysis, transportation, communications and other duties. These task forces have enabled law enforcement to perform separate functions while Guard troops provide manpower in basic clerical and mechanical tasks.

The Virginia National Guards announcement comes as governors in other states, including Florida, have begun the process of mobilizing Guard troops to provide logistical support to ICE.

The call-up of Guard troops is occurring amid a shift in approach towards ICE support at the Pentagon. In early July, 200 Marines deployed to Florida to provide support to ICE, Military Times previously reported.

However, those troops, in addition to Navy Reserve personnel, have since been withdrawn by the Defense Department.
A resolution was passed in the DMK District Secretaries meeting against the BJP-led Union government and the Election Commission, accusing them of 'Vote theft' during the SIR exercise in Bihar. They also urged the ECI to implement the DMK's key demands regarding voters' Identity proof, which was given by DMK MPs, by meeting ECI Commissioner last month. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M K Stalin headed the DMK District Secretaries meeting in the party HQ Anna Arivalayam, in which Dy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, DMK General Secretary and Minister Duraimuragan, other senior leaders, and over 60 district secretaries participated in the meeting. Three resolutions were passed in the district secretaries' meeting. One is condemning the Election Commission of India, the BJP-led Union Government, accusing ECI of vote theft and the SIR initiative, which are seen as a threat to the honest and democratic electoral process. The meeting also condemned BJP BJP-led Union Government for registering an FIR against the INDIA bloc MPs, including Rahul Gandhi, for protesting against the ECI. The District Secretaries' meeting passed a second resolution urging the Election Commission to implement the demands regarding postal votes, BLO-BLA coordination, and other key demands that were given by DMK MPs to the ECI Commissioner on July 17. Thirdly, a resolution was passed thanking DMK cadres for making 'Oraniyil Tamil Nadu' successful by taking the DMK membership drive to each family member across the State. Meanwhile, in his X post, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin emphasised the success of the Dravidian Model government's welfare schemes and the campaign in boosting public support. He urged party workers to strengthen Booth Level Committees (BLCs) to prevent alleged BJP tactics like "Vote Theft" and "SIR" ahead of the 2026 elections, calling for united efforts to secure victory. "The #DravidianModel government's welfare schemes and the party's #TamilNaduUnited campaign movement have further strengthened our influence among the people! Now, the task we must carefully undertake is to prevent the #VoteTheft, #SIR, and other atrocities committed by the BJP in other states at the booth level! For this, let us strengthen our BLCs! The 2026 battle calls for the full effort of our comrades! Let us march forward and win!," he posted on X. (ANI)
A Northern Virginia school district voted to keep its transgender bathroom policy in defiance of a U.S. Department of Education directive to rescind the policy or risk punishment.

At a closed-session meeting on Tuesday, the Loudoun County school board voted 6-3 to keep its gender identity policy, which allows students to use the locker rooms and restrooms that correspond with their gender identity.

The district was one of five Northern Virginia school districts urged in July to drop its transgender bathroom policy, after an investigation by the Education Department's Office of Civil Rights (OCR) found the schools to be in violation of Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education.

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The OCR issued a proposed resolution agreement to resolve the Title IX violations. The districts were asked to rescind these policies voluntarily or "risk imminent enforcement action, including referral to the U.S. Department of Justice."

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon warned in an interview with WJLA that schools could lose federal funding if they did not comply with the changes.

Five northern Virginia school districts were warned by the Trump administration that their bathroom policies were in violation of Title IX protections.

Trans Bathroom Policies Have 10 Days To Go, Trump Education Department Warns 5 Virginia School Districts

Read On The Fox News App

Loudoun County was the first district to formally respond, according to Wusa9, saying it was open to discussing the matter but wouldn't agree to the Trump administration's terms "at this time."

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A Loudoun County Public Schools' spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the district remained committed to ensuring every student feels "safe, supported, and able to thrive" while it complies with applicable law.

The board claimed its policy was in line with legal precedent from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit protecting transgender students.

The district said that the Education Department's determination that such policies conflict with its interpretation of Title IX creates "a direct tension between federal agency guidance and binding judicial authority."

"As a result, they asked LCPS (and four other school divisions in Northern Virginia) to sign a proposed resolution agreement. After consultation with legal counsel, the Board voted 6-3 not to comply with this request due to the tension between the OCR position and current law. We will continue to monitor developments closely to ensure continued legal compliance and the protection of all students."

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"Our priority remains the same: doing what is right for Loudoun Countys young people; focusing on educating our students and ensuring our schools are places where every child feels they belong," the statement concluded.

The LCPS policy that allows transgender students to use the locker room that fits their gender identity has been a hotly contested policy at school board meetings over the past few years.

Virginia School District Accused Of Religious Discrimination In Transgender Locker Room Case

The district's gender identity policy, called Policy 8040, has been embroiled in controversy since it was adopted in 2021.

A Loudoun County father made national headlines that year after he accused the school board of covering up the sexual assault of his daughter by a male student wearing a skirt in the girls' bathroom.

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Earlier this year, three LCPS high school students were investigated after they complained about sharing a locker room with a biological female student, who identified as male. The school's handling of the incident spurred a probe by Virginias Republican Attorney General Jason Mirayes into the district's gender policies and launched a Title IX investigation by the Justice Department.

The Biden administration finalized Title IX regulations in 2024 to expand protections for LGBTQ+ students, interpreting the laws prohibition on sex discrimination to include gender identity and sexual orientation.

Scandal-plagued School District Referred To Doj After Another Transgender Locker Room Controversy

Shortly after taking office, Trump's Department of Education notified K-12 schools that it would be reversing Biden's re-write of Title IX and enforcing these protections on the basis of biological sex in schools and on campuses.





Original article source: Virginia school district votes to keep gender bathroom policy, defying Department of Education directive
By David Latona

MADRID (Reuters) -A volunteer firefighter died from severe burns and several people were hospitalised in dozens of wildfires that raged across Spain on Wednesday, fuelled by strong winds and scorching heat.

At least six large fires were still out of control, according to regional emergency services.

"The fire situation remains serious. Extreme caution is essential," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on X.

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Wildfires have so far burned almost 99,000 hectares (245,000 acres) in Spain this year and extreme heat is making the situation worse. A 10-day heatwave is expected to last until Monday, state weather agency AEMET said, forecasting an "extreme" risk of wildfires on Wednesday.

"We are at the most challenging point of the season," AEMET said on X.

The man who was killed was a 35-year-old volunteer firefighter who had been attempting to create firebreaks near the town of Nogarejas, in the central Castile and Leon region, when he was trapped in the blaze, regional officials said.

That fire had two active fronts that were still out of control, as weather services forecast another day of strong winds and thunderstorms.

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More than 5,000 people have been evacuated in the region and efforts were focused on preventing the flames from reaching smaller towns.

Environment Minister Sara Aagesen told SER radio station that many fires across the country were suspected to be intentionally caused by arsonists due to their "virulence", but added it was too early to say how many.

On Monday, another fire killed a man working at a horse stable on the outskirts of Madrid and reached some houses and farms before it was contained.

The leader of the Galicia region in the northwest, Alfonso Rueda, called the situation there "complicated" and said the weather wasn't helping. Six active fires were affecting a combined 10,000 hectares in Galicia's Ourense province.

(Reporting by David LatonaWriting by Charlie DevereuxEditing by Bernadette Baum, Rachna Uppal and Frances Kerry)
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that Europe, the US and NATO "strengthened the common ground for Ukraine" during talks on Wednesday 13 August.

Source: European Pravda, citing von der Leyen on X (Twitter)

Details: Von der Leyen reacted positively to the talks involving European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump. She described the conversation as "very good".

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Quote: "Today Europe, the US and NATO have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace."

Previously: Zelenskyy said that talks in different formats had covered the issue of a meeting between the US and Russian leaders in Alaska on 15 August. Trump proposed to Zelenskyy that they would maintain contact after the Alaska meeting.

Background:

Trump expects his meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August to be "constructive", but does not rule out negative outcomes.

Several countries have stressed ahead of the meeting that any decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine would be unacceptable.

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Europe, the United States and NATO have strengthened their common ground ahead of the summit between US President Donald Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin in Alaska later this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday.

"Today Europe, the US and NATO have strengthened the common ground for Ukraine. We will remain in close coordination. Nobody wants peace more than us, a just and lasting peace," she posted on the social media platform X after a video call that included Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

She spoke of "a very good call" during which they exchanged views on the upcoming bilateral meeting in Alaska on Friday.

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Rutte also spoke of a "great call."

"We are united in pushing to end to this terrible war against [Ukraine and] achieve just and lasting peace. Appreciate [Donald Trump's] leadership & close coordination with Allies. The ball is now in Putin's court," Rutte posted on X.

The aim of the consultations between the European leaders with Trump and Zelensky was to find a common line with Trump for his meeting with Putin.
(WFXR)- Virginia State Police said they are aware of multiple social media posts raising concerns about missing children in Virginia.

The VSP is not investigating any reports of mass abductions in Virginia, nor is there evidence of mass abductions occurring in Virginia, according to the press release.

The agency also shed some light as to why Virginia has reported more missing children than any other state to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Kids website.

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This is because Virginia State Police forwards EVERY missing child case to NCMEC, the release read.

Parents and child killed when tree falls on car as heavy rain and flooding hit Tennessee

Eighty-eight children were reported missing to VSPs Missing Children Clearinghouse (MCC) last week. According to the VSP, 3,274 children have been reported missing to MCC. As of Wednesday, August 13, 141 are still missing, representing four percent of the cases.

The VSP said most missing children cases are investigated at the local level. Those local agencies are required to report missing children (under the age of 21) to the state police within two hours.

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The VSP shared the following information on how law enforcement agencies determine if the missing child case investigation warrants a CODI (Virginia Critical Operations for Disappeared Child Initiative) or Amber Alert request.

Each law enforcement agency shall investigate the matter to verify the disappearance, and eliminate alternative explanations where evidence is lacking. Information must be established to meet the definition of a missing or endangered child. Also, sufficient information must be available to disseminate to the public to assist in locating the missing child, to include a vehicle if there is one, in order to activate the alert. Elements for a missing or endangered child:

Criteria for Activation of CODI Alert

Any person 17 years of age or younger or is currently enrolled in a secondary school in the Commonwealth.

The childs whereabouts are unknown.

The childs disappearance is under suspicious circumstances or poses a credible threat as determined by law enforcement to the safety and health of the child.

Based on any other circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Virginia State Police.

Criteria for Activation of the Amber Alert Plan

The abducted child must be 17 years of age or younger or currently enrolled in a secondary school in the Commonwealth, regardless of age, and the reporting law enforcement agency believes the child has been abducted (unwillingly taken from their environment without permission from the childs parent or legal guardian).

The law enforcement agency believes the missing child is in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.

A law enforcement investigation has taken place that verified the abduction or eliminated alternative explanations.

Sufficient information is available to disseminate to the public that could assist in locating the child, suspect, and/or the suspects vehicle.

The child must be entered into the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) missing person files as soon as practical.

To help keep kids safe, the VSP released the following safety tips.

Have your child practice making 9-1-1 calls from both a cell phone and a landline (unplugged or with batteries removed).

Make sure your child knows not to accept rides from strangers and not to trust a stranger who suggests they go off alone together for any reason, for example, to find a lost puppy, etc.

Tell your child to let you know immediately if another adult suggests keeping secrets from you.

Never leave your child alone in the car, even for a minute.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
ST. ALBANS, Vt.  A Springfield, Massachusetts, woman allegedly attempted to enter the U.S. in a stolen car at a checkpoint in Vermont, according to state police.

Kristen Thrasher, 39, was trying to cross into the country via Highgate Springs, which is an entry point between Canada and the U.S., at around 7:30 p.m. on Monday, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, a Vermont State Police statement said.

The stolen car, a Hyundai, is registered to a Chicopee, Massachusetts, resident, police said.

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Upon their arrival to the scene, troopers identified Thrasher as the sole occupant of the vehicle. She was issued a citation for operating the vehicle without the owners consent.

The facts of the alleged crime do not satisfy the states threshold for a felony charge of aggravated operation without consent of owner, which is why Thrasher is facing a misdemeanor count, according to Adam Silverman, public information officer for the Vermont State Police.

Thrasher is scheduled to appear in Franklin County Superior Court on Sept. 8. The Hyundai was towed to the state police barracks in St. Albans, police said.

more news from Western Massachusetts

Read the original article on MassLive.
FIRST ON FOX: The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) is rolling out a new ad tying the policies of "radical" Democrats, like New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, to the future outlook of the Democratic Party.

The new message , targeting 25 vulnerable House Democrats across the country with a modest ad buy on digital platforms, hammers the party on "Project 2026" and outlines what the Republicans say Democrats will offer voters in the midterms.

"Hakeem Jeffries plan to remake America," the ad says. "Raise taxes on working families, impeach President Trump."

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The ad then plays a clip of Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries saying, "Donald Trump must be removed from office" and Dem. Rep. Dina Titus saying, "Id like to impeach the bastard right now."

Senate Democrats Are Feverishly Recruiting Top Candidates To Win Back Majority In 2026 Midterms

The NRCC is out with a new ad hammering Democrats with clips of Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, left, and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani.

The ad then claims Democrats want to "open the border" and "restart the invasion" of illegal immigrants that came into the country during the Biden administration, before quoting two Democrats, Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Gabe Vasquez, calling to abolish ICE and defund the police.

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"They riot, they loot," the ad continues before showing two clips of Mamdani saying "we are unapologetic about our socialism" and promoting the "abolition of private property."

Jeffries then says in a clip, "Chip at it aggressively until we can unravel the whole system."

The ad closes by claiming that Democrats want to "turn America into a socialist, crime-filled dystopia" before airing a clip from Jeffries saying, "Were gonna take back America and it starts today"

Dems Suggest Gop Redistricting Has Forced Them To Play Partisan Politics, Republicans Argue Nothing's Changed

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, a Democrat from New York, speaks during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025.

The ad closes with, "Are you going to let them?"

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The list of vulnerable elected officials targeted by the ad includes Democratic Reps. Tom Suozzi of New York, Marcy Kaptur of Ohio, Emilia Sykes of Ohio, Eugene Vindman of Virginia, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, Frank Mrvan of Indiana and others.

"This is the America Democrats want to build: Raising taxes for working families, baseless impeachments, wide open borders, abolishing ICE, defunding the police, and turning America into a socialist, crime-filled dystopia," NRCC spokesman Mike Marinella told Fox News Digital. "House Republicans are the only thing standing between you and the nightmare of Project 2026."

Democratic nominee for mayor, Zohran Mamdani, addresses the media on a report by The New York Times that independent mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo is conspiring with President Donald Trump to steal the mayoral election from New Yorkers who voted to designate Mamdani as Democratic candidate.

The NRCC released a memo on Tuesday morning in which it knocked Jeffries for failing to meet a self-imposed deadline to roll out a new vision for America with a Democratic-controlled House.

The Hill reported in April that Jeffries committed that "over these next 100 days, House Democrats are going to lay out a blueprint for a better America. And you will see a vision for this countrys future that isnt about Donald Trump. Its all about you."

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With those 100 days having already elapsed, the NRCC published a satirical memo titled "Project 2026," in which they accused the Democrats of being out of step with the American people.

In response, Viet Shelton, a spokesperson for the DCCC, fired back at the messaging from the NRCC.

"House Republicans have done nothing to improve the lives of everyday Americans," Shelton said.

"Its no wonder theyre desperately attempting to distract from their disastrous record of higher costs for working families and ripping away health care from millions while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest few. Poll after poll shows voters across the country are fed up with their billionaire-first agenda and are going to reject them next year."

Fox News Digital's Peter Pinedo contributed to this report





Original article source: Vulnerable Democrats hammered with scathing ad handcuffing them to Mamdani, Jeffries
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Though the midterm election is about 16 months away, the race to represent Washingtons 3rd Congressional District became a bit more clear on Tuesday.

Republican State Sen. John Braun announced he will run for the seat currently held by Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

Washingtons 3rd District, which includes Vancouver and Clark County, is a swing district. Gluesenkamp Perez won the seat in 2022, defeating Joe Kent, then beat him again in 2024. Before she won, though, the seat was held by Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler.

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Republicans think they can flip the seat back in 2026.

Braun, 58, is from Centralia. Hes a Navy veteran and president of a family business that manufactures emergency vehicles. Hes represented Washingtons 20th legislative district since 2013 and is the current leader of the Republican caucus.

In his campaign announcement, Braun said he looks forward to working with President Trump to get America back on the right track.

Oregon faces $15 billion loss in federal funding for health and food programs

I think theres a number of things that President Trump has taken actions to undo the harm done during the Biden presidency, Braun told KOIN 6 News. The one that stands out most clearly is his work on immigration, just enforcing laws that have been on the books for years.

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Gluesenkamp Perez, 37, serves on the House Appropriations Committee, is known for supporting working class issues and is co-chair of the moderate Blue Dog Democrats who dont always vote the party line.

Her campaign said Braun caters to special interests. Its no surprise the DC swamp has recruited him to run, her campaign said.

Braun will have to earn the Republican nomination. Another GOP challenger, businessman Antony Barran, has already announced hes running for the seat.

Once again, the eyes of the nation will be on Washingtons 3rd Congressional District for control of the US House of Representatives.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
WICHITA COUNTY (KFDX/KJTL)  A Waggoner Ranch employee is in jail after pawning firearms that law enforcement officials said did not belong to him.

Shaun McGee booking photo courtesy of Wichita Co. Jail

Shaun Douglas McGee, 37, of Vernon, was arrested on Tuesday, August 12.

According to affidavits, Special Game Wardens with the Waggoner Ranch contacted other law enforcement officials regarding property that had been stolen and sold by McGee. A database search showed that on March 25, McGee had pawned two firearms.

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The Texas Game Wardens reviewed camera footage from the pawn shop where the two firearms were sold and observed McGee. The serial numbers were confirmed to match those stolen from Waggoner Ranch.

McGee was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and theft between $2,500 and $30,000. He was booked into the Wichita County Jail and, as of publication, is being held on a $20,000 bond.

This is a developing story. Stick with Texomas Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com.
Work is underway to build a new paved walking path that will connect Tillicum and Lakewood by foot for the first time.

Crews with the Washington State Department of Transportation started construction on the 1.3-mile Gravelly-Thorne Connecto r on Monday, according to WSDOT. Once complete next fall, people will be able to walk, bike and roll between the cities for the first time. The 14-foot-wide trail will run parallel to southbound Interstate 5.

As a result of the project, 394 trees will be removed, WSDOT spokesperson Doug Adamson told The News Tribune on Tuesday. Adamson said the trees are in the way of the path and that WSDOT tries to remove as few trees as possible when planning projects. About 35% of the trees being removed are classified as dead or in poor condition, WSDOT said.

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This is something that we worked with in concert with the city of Lakewood, Adamson said. With it being right next to Sound Transit, this will also benefit the [Amtrak Cascades] train that goes through there as well.

A map shows the route of a new 1.3-mile Gravelly-Thorne Connector trail that will connect Tillicum and Lakewood by fall 2026. WSDOT

Funding for the project totals $31.5 million, which will come from the Washington State Legislatures $495 million fund for the I-5 Mounts Road to Thorne Lane Interchange Corridor Improvements project.

The Gravelly-Thorne Connector project is part of a suite of improvements that adds a new HOV lane on I-5 in both directions between DuPont and Lakewood, according to WSDOT. Construction has begun on building a new Steilacoom-DuPont Road interchange with a shared use path between the city of DuPont and Joint Base Lewis-McChords DuPont Gate.
Hitting back at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for his claim of "vote theft", the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday alleged that Congress defeated Bhimrao Ambedkar, regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution, in the 1952 general election through electoral fraud. "If we start from 1952, Congress and CPI together defeated Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a constitution maker and a saint-like leader, in the election. Congress laid the foundation of electoral corruption in the very first election of 1952," BJP MP Anurag Thakur said at a press conference held in the party's headquarters here. "Check the records: 74,333 votes were rejected, while Ambedkar ji lost by just 14,561 votes. Congress ensured that a constitution maker, a Dalit leader, was eliminated in the very first election. Imagine, the one who created the constitution was defeated by the Congress family through electoral fraud," he added. The BJP MP alleged that Rahul Gandhi and his family had a history of questioning the Election Commission when they lost elections. "This family and party have had a tradition from the beginning that if you lose an election, you raise questions about the Election Commission, the voters, or the functioning of the Election Commission. Indira Gandhi had said, Voters are a bunch of fools. When Rajiv Gandhi lost the election, he blamed the ballot paper. Rahul Gandhi's father used to say, conduct elections with voting machines, and Rahul Gandhi says, conduct elections with ballot papers," he said. Anurag Thakur also criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for opposing a special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in her state. "I want to ask Mamata Banerjee a question. In the Lok Sabha in 2005, she threw documents claiming that the voter list included illegal Bangladeshi migrants. Now, when we are trying to clean that mess, she is creating hurdles. Was she lying then or is she lying now?" he asked. He said that, seeing that it is losing the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, the Congress is already engaged in making false allegations in connivance with other Opposition parties. "If there is a record of losing elections 90 times under someone's leadership, then it is under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. Even within the party, questions are raised about Rahul Gandhi's leadership," Thakur said in a press conference at the BJP headquarters. "When he (Rahul Gandhi) loses elections, he raises questions about EVMs or blames the voters. Congress said, EVM is rigged for the BJP. Then they said, ban EVMs, bring back ballot papers. Then they said EVMs can be hacked remotely. After every defeat, Congress kept finding new excuses. Congress did not introspect but kept blaming EVMs, the Election Commission and constitutional institutions again and again. Seeing that it is losing the Bihar elections, Congress is already engaged in making false allegations in connivance with opposition parties," he said. (ANI)
The Wall Street Journal editorial board issued a stern warning over President Donald Trumps meddling with jobs data.

The Rupert Murdoch-owned newspaper on Tuesday criticized Trumps pick to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), E.J. Antoni, who was chosen after the president fired the previous leader.

Trump got rid of Erika McEntarfer after a report of jobs showed the worst three months of job growth since the coronavirus pandemic, numbers the president said were rigged to hurt him politically, and a claim for which the White House has come up with no evidence whatsoever.

Related: The Supreme Court May Be About To Deal A Final Blow To The Voting Rights Act

The WSJ points out that as the chief economist of the right-wing Heritage Foundation, Antoni produced highly partisan commentary. By contrast, his new job demands nonpartisan professionalism.

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Few people trust Chinas economic data because they know the government serves the interests of the ruling Communist Party, the editorial concludes.

Mr. Antoni will have to take off his MAGA hat if he wants to ensure that the public and markets can trust BLS data.

Trump removed McEntarfer after a July jobs report was weaker than expected, and the BLS significantly revised down the gains from the two prior months.

BLS is in charge of producing monthly reports, which show the number of jobs that have been added or lost, and revisions are common as the agency receives more data from different employers.

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The new nominee prompted alarm after it emerged Antoni had suggested getting rid of the agencys closely watched monthly jobs estimate just before being tapped for the job.

Related: Newsom Says California Will Redraw Its BEAUTIFUL MAPS In All-Caps Post Mocking Trump

In an interview with Fox News Digital conducted last week and published Tuesday, Antoni said that until it is corrected, the BLS should suspend issuing the monthly job reports but keep publishing the more accurate, though less timely, quarterly data.

However, Heritage Foundation economist and former Trump adviser Stephen Moore told CNN that Antoni has now cooled on the idea of a suspension of the monthly report.

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In his announcement Monday that Antoni would be his nominee to replace McEntarfer, Trump said, E.J. will ensure that the Numbers released are HONEST and ACCURATE.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Shoppers expecting Walmarts trademark low prices may have been getting more than they bargained forand not in a good way. A California investigation found the retail giant was charging more than it should for produce, bakery favorites, and other weighed goods, resulting in a $5.6 million penalty. Read on to discover what led to this colossal fine and what it means for shoppers everywhere.

Walmart settles multi-county case over false pricing, weight labels

Following a consumer protection lawsuit, Walmart is set to pay $5.6 million to settle allegations that the retail giant overcharged its customers. The complaint, which originated from four California counties, accuses the company of a range of deceptive pricing practices.

According to the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office, the Arkansas-based corporation was selling goods with incorrect weights and charging higher prices than what was advertised. The lawsuit specifically cited products like fresh produce, baked items, and other prepared foods as having weights less than what was stated on the packaging. These actions were deemed a violation of Californias False Advertising and Unfair Competition Laws.

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The settlement underscores a commitment to price accuracy. District Attorney Jeff Rosen emphasized this point, stating, When someone brings an item to the register to be scanned, the price must be right. They expect it. California expects it. My office expects it  and we will apply the law to make sure of it.

Walmarts history of overcharging allegations

This isnt the first time Walmart has been in hot water over its pricing. The company has a history of similar issues, with a previous incident dating back to 2012. At that time, Walmart settled a case for $2.1 million after being found in violation of a 2008 court judgment.

The judgment was meant to protect consumers from being overcharged. According to a statement from the California Department of Justice, the retailer was supposed to have a clear policy for handling pricing errors. Then-Attorney General and former Vice President Kamala Harris explained the specific rules in a 2012 statement: Consumers who were overcharged at the cash register should have immediately received $3 off the lowest advertised price of the item. If the price was less than $3, the item was to be given to the consumer for free.

Walmarts settlement is a wake-up call for every consumer

The recent settlement against Walmart for overcharging customers serves as a powerful reminder for shoppers to be vigilant. The lawsuit, which alleged incorrect prices at the register and inaccurate weights on products like produce and bakery items, highlights that even major retailers can have systemic issues.

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Here are the key takeaways for shoppers:

Always check your receipt: The most crucial takeaway is to develop a habit of reviewing your receipt before you leave the store. This allows you to catch any discrepancies between the price you saw on the shelf and the price you were charged. Dont assume the price is right: Just because an item has a tag or is on sale doesnt mean the final price will be correct. In some cases, as the lawsuit noted, the point-of-sale system may deceptively charge a higher price. Pay attention to unit prices and weights: For items sold by weight, like meat or bulk produce, take a moment to verify that the weight on the label matches what you are charged. The lawsuit found that products sometimes had less weight than indicated on the label, leading to overcharging. Know your consumer rights: Many states have laws protecting consumers from false advertising and unfair competition. Being aware of these rights empowers you to take action if you spot an error. Report pricing errors: If you find a discrepancy, report it immediately to a store manager. If the issue is not resolved, or if you suspect a larger pattern of overcharging, you can file a complaint with your local or state consumer protection agency. Your report can help agencies identify and investigate larger issues, as was the case in the Walmart lawsuit.

Source: USA Today

Read the original article on GEEKSPIN.

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Gov. Tim Walz appointed Eric Taubel as director of the Office of Cannabis Management Wednesday. Taubel presented the offices budget proposal to the House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee on Feb. 11, 2025. Photo by Andrew VonBank/House Public Information Services.

Gov. Tim Walz on Wednesday announced that Eric Taubel will serve as executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management. Hes been serving in the role in an interim capacity for eight months.

Taubel is overseeing whats been a sluggish cannabis market rollout after the Legislature legalized adult-use cannabis in 2023. The Office of Cannabis Management is currently issuing licenses to marijuana businesses and, as of Aug. 6, it had issued 10 microbusiness licenses, with nearly 1,100 preliminarily approved. Microbusinesses can grow and sell marijuana products.

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Tribal nations including Red Lake and White Earth moved quickly set up their own cannabis operations to serve the new legal market.

Minnesota dispensaries can only sell cannabis grown within the state, so the supply chain will likely take a while to develop, the Star Tribune reported. At a cannabis conference last month, Taubel said that he expects a more realized model of the market to take effect in early 2026, the Strib reported.

Taubel previously served as the Office of Cannabis Managements general counsel and was also general counsel for the Department of Education.

Under his experienced leadership, I am confident that OCM and the Minnesota cannabis industry will continue to prioritize public health and safety, consumer confidence and market integrity, Walz said in a statement Wednesday.

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Taubel took over from the previous interim OCM director, Charlene Briner.

Walzs first pick for OCM director, Erin Dupree, resigned one day after being appointed after reports that her hemp shop sold illegal products.
WARREN, Ohio (WJW)  Warren police are investigating a shooting that sent a 6-year-old to the hospital Wednesday.

Local sobriety checkpoints set for this weekend

Officers were called to a home along the 2400 block of Montgomery Avenue NW around 2:15 a.m.

According to police, the caller said her 6-year-old sister had been shot.

The child was taken to a hospital to be treated for a gunshot wound, police said.

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While investigating the scene, police discovered bullet holes in the back of the home.

Coffee sold at Dollar General recalled; could contain glass: FDA

Police are encouraging residents who live in the area to check their home security cameras and report any helpful information to Detective Frank Tempesta.

He can reached at 330-841-2651 or ftempesta@warren.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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
The Brief

The ACLU of Michigan is suing Warren police for using what the organization called excessive force against a man who was in the midst of a mental health crisis.

The ACLU said Christopher Gibson's constitutional rights were violated during the alleged assault.

The federal lawsuit names the police department, city, and a dozen officers who were involved.

WARREN, Mich. (FOX 2) - A recently filed lawsuit alleges Warren police violated a man's rights when they tackled and tased him while he was in the midst of a mental health crisis that officers were aware of.

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The ACLU of Michigan has filed the lawsuit on behalf of 26-year-old Christopher Gibson, who was taken into custody on Dec. 13, 2022. Warren police said they have not yet been served with the lawsuit.

The backstory

While announcing the lawsuit, the ACLU released body camera video of the encounter, both when police first approached Gibson around 2 a.m. Dec. 13, 2022, and inside a Warren Police Department holding cell.

Christopher's mother, Alwanda Gibson, said her son has schizophrenia and psychosis, and was suffering a mental health episode after spending time with a family member who was dying from cancer.

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"I believe that's what triggered his mental health crisis," Alwanda said.

Watch an ACLU press conference and video of the incident below. WARNING: Content may be disturbing to some.

According to the ACLU, Alwanda had contacted the Detroit Police Department to get help for her son, but he left the home while she was trying to get assistance for him.

At one point, he went to Warren, where employees at a gas station called police because they were concerned about him. Police responded, spoke to Christopher, and took him into custody after discovering he had warrants for identity theft.

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In the video, Christopher is heard telling the officers about his dying family member. He again brought him his family and said he was lost while in the backseat of a patrol vehicle.

An officer told Christopher that he "picked the wrong city to be going through it in."

While in the back of the police vehicle, Alwanda called Christopher and spoke with an officer. She was heard telling the officer that her son was experiencing a mental health crisis and needed to go to a psychiatric ward. She then called the Warren Police Department, but said whoever answered hung up the phone.

Alwanda said she called back and spoke to a supervisor, who she said assured her that Christopher would be provided help if he was exhibiting signs of a mental health crisis when he arrived at the department.

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The next video shared by the ACLU was from hours later, around 11 a.m., when Christopher was refusing to allow officers to put handcuffs on him while he was inside a holding cell at the police department.

"You're mental, that's fine. That doesn't stop you from following directions," an officer told him.

Mark Fancher, an attorney with the ACLU of Michigan Racial Justice Project, said Christopher couldn't follow directions because of his mental state.

"No, he couldn't. The man was undergoing extreme trauma," Fancher said.

When Christopher continued to refuse to put handcuffs on, officers told him they would tase him before opening the cell door while he was seated on the ground just inside the door. Christopher was immediately tased after standing up when the cell door opened. Multiple officers then took him to the ground. At one point during this encounter, Christopher bit an officer, the ACLU said.

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Christopher was again tased while he yelled about his mental health. Fancher said Christopher was also pepper-sprayed during the tussle.

"He was tasered, beaten, pepper sprayed and threatened by a barking K-9," he said.

Eventually, officers removed him from the cell to transport him to the Macomb County Jail. However, the ACLU said Christopher was actually taken to a hospital, and claims it took Alwanda three days to find her son.

According to the ACLU, Gibson had suffered internal bleeding.

"The video shows multiple officers applying their full body weight to him and causing these extreme injuries," Fancher said.

Dig deeper

The ACLU said the federal lawsuit names the Warren Police Department, the city, and around a dozen involved officers.

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Fancher said the city is part of the lawsuit for failing to provide proper training to officers.

The other side

According to Warren Police Lt. John Gajewski, his department has not been served with the lawsuit.

"Warren police department is looking to confirm formal service of this lawsuit on the city. Generally we do not comment on lawsuits that we have not been served. We reserve the right to issue a comment upon formal service," he said in a statement to FOX 2.

What's next

Fancher said more officers could be added to the suit.

The lawsuit is currently pending.

The Source

FOX 2 watched an ACLU of Michigan press conference and reviewed body cam video for this story.
A Detroit man with a mental illness is suing the city of Warren and at least a dozen of its police officers, accusing them of assaulting him and denying him mental health assistance while he was in a holding cell inside police headquarters in 2022.

Christopher Gibson, 26, filed the civil lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Detroit on Aug. 13. The filing indicates he was "brutally battered, tasered and threatened with a barking K-9" while detained after his arrest Dec. 13, 2022.

The lawsuit indicates Gibson has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and that before and during his detention, he experienced a mental health emergency that required the intervention of mental health specialists. Instead, he was treated at a local hospital for physical injuries for about a week after his encounters with police, with his heart and kidneys leaking, and his mother indicating he had no preexisting problems with those organs, according to the complaint.

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ACLU of Michigan attorneys are representing Gibson, emphasizing that mental health experts need to respond to situations like the one involving Gibson. The organization produced an 11-minute video with police body camera footage and comments from Gibson and his mother, who indicated to police that her son was experiencing a mental health emergency and should be taken to a psychiatric hospital instead of the police station, according to the lawsuit.

Warren Police Lt. John Gajewski told the Free Press that the police department has not been served with the lawsuit.

"We typically do not comment on lawsuits until formal service has been achieved," he said. "We reserve the right to issue a comment once we are served with the lawsuit and consult with our attorneys."

More: Warren police: Footage shows shoot-out before Detroit man's death

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Gibson visited his mother in Detroit on Dec. 12, 2022, after an emotional night with a cousin who was dying of cancer, according to the complaint, and began to display symptoms of his mental illness, including incoherence and manic behavior.

His mother tried to persuade him to go home, but he suggested he be taken to a mental health facility. When she texted Detroit police for help in taking him to a hospital, Gibson became agitated and left the house, according to the lawsuit. Gibson's mother and Detroit police searched the neighborhood for him for about 10 minutes unsuccessfully.

Later, gas station personnel saw Gibson and contacted Warren police, explaining they were concerned about him. Warren police apprehended Gibson, explaining they were responding to concerns from the gas station personnel.

Gibson's mother missed three calls from her son, according to the lawsuit, and when she returned the last call early Dec. 13, 2022, a Warren officer spoke to her, advising her that Gibson had been arrested for an outstanding warrant for two counts of identity theft. She explained that her son was experiencing a mental health emergency and that he should be taken to a psychiatric hospital instead of the police station, according to the lawsuit.

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When her repeated requests for mental health assistance were disregarded by the officer, it indicates, she called Warren police and spoke to a supervisor, who told her they would keep Gibson under observation and "if it appeared that he needed mental health services they would provide them."

More: Warren police launch emotional intelligence training to improve policing, mental health

The next day, she was told that Gibson was not in the Warren lockup. For three days, per the complaint, she "was in the dark about the fate of her son." She called the Macomb County Jail and was told her son was taken to the hospital for "undisclosed reasons."

Gibson was in police custody at a local hospital, according to the lawsuit, and his mother was not allowed to visit. The treating doctor, it indicated, asked her if her son had prior heart or kidney problems as both organs were leaking. During Gibson's hospital stay, he received no mental health services.

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Before he was hospitalized, according to the lawsuit, Gibson was detained in Warren police's holding cells, having several encounters with officers. They included, per the lawsuit:

Police urging Gibson to cooperate with them to take him to an interview room about 8:37 a.m. Dec. 13, 2022. Gibson explained his reluctance because of his mental health emergency. An officer responded: "You're mental, that's fine. You can still follow directions." Officers engaged with Gibson physically, and he reacted in various ways, including biting. An officer pepper-sprayed him.

About an hour later, six officers approached Gibson's cell stating their need to remove his handcuffs. An officer said Gibson was "bouncing around the cell" about 30 seconds earlier, and they wanted to give him a chance to get the handcuffs off to be more comfortable.

About 90 minutes later, a group of officers approached Gibson's cell, including a "barking, snapping K-9 and his handler as well as at least one officer carrying a riot shield, and at least one other carrying a taser." They "shouted" they were to move him to the county jail.

Gibson showed signs of his mental illness and disorientation, according to the lawsuit, and had difficulty following officers' directions. Officers opened the cell door and deployed a stun gun, with one of the two prongs attaching to Gibson's chest, causing no effect, per the complaint.

The officers then charged at Gibson, it indicated, took him to the floor and pinned him face down. After he was immobilized, officers shocked him multiple times with a stun gun, according to the lawsuit.

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It also indicates that officers struck Gibson repeatedly; an officer's knee was put on Gibson's right upper arm; another officer put himself on Gibson's body; an officer used an arm lock around Gibson's head, and officers used various "muscling techniques."

During the assault, per the complaint, Gibson shouted that he was not resisting and to take him to a "mental hospital now! Please! I'm cooperating! I've got the message!" An officer told Gibson he was resisting and that if he continued to do so, he would be shocked again with a stun gun.

Officers lifted Gibson and carried him through the cell door, per the lawsuit. They stood him up, it states, but he took a few steps and collapsed. Officers fell on him again, and Gibson was lifted again.

The lawsuit also indicates officers, on various occasions, used pepper spray on Gibson after he was extracted from the cell and as he was being prepared for transport to the county jail. It also accused officers of violently pulling Gibson, who was shackled, out of the back of a police vehicle and throwing him to the asphalt.

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At the end of the ACLU of Michigan video, Gibson said he felt "lucky to still be alive after what they did to me." He said he hopes that by telling his story, it will help other people with mental illness "from ever really experiencing that again."

Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to the Free Press.

Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Warren police sued for excessive force on mentally ill man in 2022
WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  Schools are putting everything in place to begin classes soon.

Its just as hard whether the school district is big or small.

Warren celebrated the upcoming start of school. The celebration covered and crowded Courthouse Square. Games, giveaways, plus the cheerleaders lead the group with great school spirit.

Our goal is to have a lot of positive energy and to kick school off in a very positive light, said Superintendent Steve Chiaro.



But right now, there could be a challenge with the first day of school. The district, like so many others, needs school bus drivers.

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We are barely covering routes that we need to, said John Lacy, executive director of business operations for Warren City Schools



Lacy wants to hire more drivers, so the buses dont have to double-up. He parked a bus at the back-to-school celebration, trying to attract drivers.

And I think theyre also kind of surprised that the pay is really pretty good. We pay about $24 an hour and full benefits, and its 52 weeks, so its not a shortened school year, Lacy said.

Warren will also pay for the entire training for a driver to get their CDL to be a school bus driver.

The district hopes the situation can turn around.

Today, the district was celebrating the students, their families, and recognizing the community support and partners. Its a team effort in education, and to be ready for another successful school year.



Because we cant do it alone. We need every aspect of assistance in helping our kids along the way. And with our academic gains weve been showing recently, we think this is the key to our success, Chiaro said.

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Warren City Schools begin classes Monday.

If you want to be a school bus driver, the schools website is a good place to start or call Supervisor of Transportation Dora Selbe at 330-841-2265, ext. 7511.

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WASHINGTON, Ill. (WMBD)  One central Illinois city is celebrating a big milestone this upcoming weekend, 200 years in the making.

Washington is gearing up for its bicentennial celebration, which includes events like a drone show and a food truck frenzy.

I think it goes to show Washington loves its history, John Ackerman, Tazewell County Clerk and bicentennial committee member, said. The effort that they put into building this community that we cherish today, the Washington Square is a prime example. This was scheduled to be bulldozed in the sixties, and instead the community came together to say, No, not our square.'

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Tutus and tattoos bring smiles to OSF Childrens Hospital

The parade, which will be held on Saturday, has a theme of Then & Now, which honors where the city came from and what its future looks like.

That says it all, then and now and then also now and in the future, said Mayor Lilijia Stevens. You have to know where you came from to know your future, and its all a cycle.

Part of the citys future plan includes making it more accessible to walkers and bikers.

Thats one of the things in our fairly recently approved comprehensive plan for the city going forward in the future is making our city more walkable, more bikeable, Stevens said.

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To see a full list of events, click here.

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Its time to be honest: Ohio is not making meaningful progress toward improving the well-being of its children. Unfortunately, inaction by both state and federal lawmakers could quickly make things worse.

In June, the national 2025 KIDS COUNT Data Book, a 50-state report of data developed by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, ranked Ohio 31st in America for child well-being. The reasons why werent surprising.

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The research showed almost one in five Ohio children, about 470,000, live in poverty. That is more people than the populations of either Cincinnati or Cleveland respectively. Almost 70 percent of Ohio eighth graders arent proficient in math, while a similar share of fourth graders struggle with reading. Meanwhile, nearly 9 percent of Ohio newborns have a low birthweight, slightly above the national average.

These are just the latest figures in a long downward trend for our state. In 2015, KIDS COUNT ranked Ohio 23rd for child well-being.

So, how could things get worse?

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

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Well, many more Ohio children now risk losing both health care and access to food after Congress passed the Big Beautiful Bill. More than half of Ohio children are enrolled in Medicaid. Some of our states own representatives in Washington recently voted to cut that vital program by roughly $1 trillion over the next decade. They also defunded the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by $186 billion during that same period. The Urban Institute predicts more than 108,000 Ohio families with children could now lose some or all of their SNAP benefits.

In our 2023 Ohio school meals report, we emphasized well-nourished children are healthier and learn better. If we take away meals and health care, were not just cutting programs  were setting children back.

And yet, when our states lawmakers knew these changes were coming from Washington, they made a choice to pass a state budget that included a $1 billion tax cut for the wealthy and money for Cleveland Browns ownership. The General Assembly made these choices at the same time it rejected Governor Mike DeWines proposal to support Ohio families by creating a child tax credit.

Were not surprised by the final decisions made by our lawmakers in Columbus. After all, they had been telegraphing their priorities for several months. Still, they had the opportunity to make choices that would benefit children  and they chose not to.

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In response, we need to go back to square one. If we want real progress for families then we must secure a vision for Ohio that doesnt rely on gutting essential services or handing corporations blank checks. That means building grassroots power strong enough to make legislators think first about their constituents, not their campaign donors. When everyday people are organized and unified, they can hold elected officials accountable and create the change families need and deserve.

Whether you live off Lake Erie, Columbus or in rural Southeast Ohio, the challenges facing our children, like poverty and a lack of health care, are shared community issues regardless of political affiliation. Its important for people from different parts of Ohio with common concerns to come together and show that we all want the best for our children. Building broad-based support for improving the well-being of ALL children is the work that must happen now.

Despite setbacks, we know things can swing in the favor of Ohios children when theres genuine commitment. Ohios lawmakers must act now before more children suffer the consequences of continued neglect.

Dr. John Stanford, Dr. Guillermo Bervejillo, and Brianna Booker serve as youth advocates for Childrens Defense Fund-Ohio.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. (WNCT)  Carlos Lugo-Garcia of Washington has been sentenced to a minimum of 225 months and a maximum of 282 months for multiple convictions of Drug Trafficking, including Trafficking in Fentanyl by Transportation on three separate dates.

According to a press release, the investigation was conducted by the Beaufort County Sheriffs Office, the Craven County Sheriffs Office, and the State Bureau of Investigation and resulted in the trafficking of approximately 8,543 pills of Fentanyl. Lugo-Garcia was also fined $1.5 million.

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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Centre approved Rs 547.83 crore for underground cabling in Rishikesh and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) works in Dehradun. Sharing an X post, CM Dhami wrote, "On behalf of the people of Devbhoomi, heartfelt gratitude to the respected Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji for the approval of Rs 547.83 crore by the Central Government for underground cabling in Rishikesh and SCADA works in Dehradun, as per the earlier request." Noting the significance of the underground cabling project, he said that it will provide a stable power supply and protection from weather-related power disruptions. "This project is a significant step towards making the power infrastructure modern, safe, and reliable. Underground cabling will ensure a more stable power supply, provide protection from disaster and weather-related disruptions, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance urban aesthetics," the Chief Minister wrote. Hailing the double-engine government, Pushkar Singh Dhami added, "Our double-engine government is committed to the all-round and inclusive development of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand." Earlier today, CM Dhami hoisted the tricolour under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign at the Chief Minister's residence in Dehradun. The Chief Minister said that the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, started with the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has today become a great campaign of patriotism by reaching every person. The tricolour is a living symbol of our freedom, unity and rich cultural heritage. The Chief Minister appealed to the people of the state that on this Independence Day, everyone should hoist the tricolour with pride and respect at their home, office, and shop and salute the brave fighters who sacrificed for the independence of the country. Also, take your photo with the tricolour and share it on the official website, Har Ghar Tiranga. (ANI)
LOS ANGELES - An intense week-long manhunt for a Washington murder suspect ended Tuesday afternoon in downtownLos Angeles, about a thousand miles from the crime scene.

The backstory

Last Tuesday, Alexander Lee Rogers is accused of brutally stabbing and killing 64-year-old Dawn Peters in Longview, Washington. Her husband, Leroy, was also stabbed and critically injured.

PREVIOUS: Alexander Lee Rogers: Washington murder suspect arrested in Los Angeles

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"To be taken out like that, so brutal, it just really takes a toll," said Steven Butler. "Im just glad hes caught."

Dawn and Leroys nephew, Butler, spoke with FOX 11 via Zoom, still shocked by the deadly attack.

What they're saying

"[Dawn] was a mother figure to me," said Butler. "She treated me like her son. She was a wonderful person, she really was. We just dont understand why he would take her life like that."

Police body camera photos from Washington show Rogers last Tuesday speaking with officers before the deadly attack. He was speaking with police about an unrelated incident.

According to Butler, Rogers was recently hired by his aunt and uncle to do work on their property.

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"He was doing handyman work for them," said Butler. "To this very second, nobody knows what sparked him. He showed up the Friday before wanting to do side work to earn him some money. Come Tuesday, or whatever day, it happened."

Dawn was stabbed to death, while her husband Leroy was also stabbed in the neck, and is expected to survive.

A GoFundMe has since been launched for the grieving family. Those looking to help can click here for more information.

Dig deeper

An intense weeklong manhunt for Rogers took place across the West Coast. On Monday, the search focused on the Los Angeles area after the suspects getaway car was located in Calabasas.

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Then Tuesday, a security guard near Lafyette Park in downtown Los Angeles called 911 after recognizing the murder suspect.

"Senior lead officers from Olympic division responded to the radio call," said LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell. "There were a number of efforts being undertaken in the region to be able to locate this suspect. Particularly of concern since he was deemed to be as dangerous as he is."

According to online records, Rogers recently got out of prison after serving more than 20 years for attacking two people with a machete and stealing their car.

Its unknown if Rogers has any connection to the Los Angeles area.

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"Were going to the trial," said Butler. "Were going to make our family a well-known presence in that courtroom to know just show exactly how many people got affected by one action."

The Source

Information in this story is from the Los Angeles Police Department, an interview with Steven Butler and previous FOX 11 reports.
A 15-minute walk from the White House, Tony and Mike stood on the sidewalk near the spot where a man was killed on Monday, the 100th murder of the year in Washington.

The shooting broke out just a few hours after President Donald Trump announced a federal takeover of the US capital, which Trump described as overrun by crime -- though official data shows that violence has recently decreased.

"It's sickening," Tony told AFP early Tuesday. "It's not safe anymore."

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"You do need change, you do need help," Mike said.

But Mike added that the city does not need the help Trump is sending in -- "not National Guards."

The day after Trump's press conference, residents of the area near the city center told stories of drug sales on the street, but were skeptical that federal intervention would make a difference.

Tony has always lived in the area and, like the other residents interviewed, did not want to give his last name.

He described a local street corner as an "open air market" with "all the drugs that you want."

Anne, who was holding pruning shears as she weeded, said needles are often discovered in the flowerbed of the church on the corner.

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It was near this spot that Tymark Wells, 33, was shot around 7:00 pm Monday before later dying in hospital, according to a police report that did not mention a motive or suspect.

- 'Stunt' -

The area is the "wild wild West and it's always been like that," said Lauren, who lives in a building nearby.

"We're so desensitized," the 42-year-old added.

When Trump announced his DC plan, he said it was "becoming a situation of complete and total lawlessness."

However the Department of Justice said in January that violent crime in Washington recently hit its lowest level in 30 years.

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Because of easy access to guns in the United States, the crime number still "may look differently in America than it does in other parts of the world," Brianne Nadeau, a member of DC's overwhelmingly Democratic city council, told AFP.

"But we have made substantial strides here," she said, calling Trump's federal takeover a "political stunt."

The annual number of homicides in the city peaked at 274 in 2023, before falling to 187 last year. That is still one of the highest per capita homicide rates in the country.

Trump also justified the takeover by citing the number of homeless people in the city.

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Ace, a 16-year-old walking her dog, said the presence of the homeless contributed to the feeling of insecurity.

Sometimes unhoused people would get on top of her parents' car, she said. "You don't know if they are going to break in."

- 'Only the beginning' -

While waiting for the National Guard, around 850 federal agents were deployed to Washington on Monday, making 23 arrests, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

"This is only the beginning," she said.

National Guard troops started to appear on the US capital's streets Tuesday night, with their armored vehicles rolling past the Washington Monument at sunset.

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Terry Cole, head of the Drug Enforcement Administration tasked with leading the federal takeover of the city's police, said patrolling would be ramped up.

Federal agents and police will work "hand in hand" during these patrols, Cole added.

The city's Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has been forced to accommodate the takeover, said this approach is "the wrong way to do it."

Federal agents are not trained to go out on patrol, she said.

On Tuesday night, Bowser used her strongest words yet to criticize the takeover, describing it as "an authoritarian push" during an online conversation with residents on social media.

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Tom, who lives near the scene of Monday's shooting, told AFP there were not enough police patrols in the area.

But he also criticized Trump's "draconian approach," saying it was unlikely to "yield any good results."

Across the street, a small memorial stood in tribute to a different shooting victim.

A picture of a young Black man has been wrapped around a tree, with flowers arrayed at its base.

Turell Delonte, 30, was shot dead by police at the spot in 2023, after he was suspected of drug trafficking.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Firefighters at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia fulfilled their most quacktacular mission yet this week when crews were called upon to wash the Worlds Largest Rubber Duck.

The Missouri State Fair Fire Department posted a video on its Facebook Tuesday of crews spraying water on the giant yellow duck, which stands more than 60 feet tall and is about 75 feet long.

Your guide to the 2025 Missouri State Fair

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FOX4 reported last week that the duck had to be taken down due to high winds. It has since been re-inflated and gotten all shined up for visitors at the state fairgrounds.

The Worlds Largest Rubber Duck said on Facebook Tuesday: Thank you Missouri State Fair Fire and EMS for coming to check up on us after the storms! We are shined up and vitals are good! Special thanks to Captain Shawn Ducky Ritchie!

Visitors at the state fairgrounds in Sedalia still have a chance to see the duck now through Sunday.

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Several Indiana Democrats will join their Texas counterparts Wednesday afternoon in Chicago to rail against what they have denounced as mid-decade gerrymandering ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Their remarks come as the Trump administration is turning its attention to other red states, including Indiana, to follow Texass lead in the redistricting battle. Vice President Vance visited the Hoosier State last week to meet with Gov. Mike Braun (R) amid the chatter, though the governor did not make any commitments.

Texas House Democrats will stand in solidarity with Indiana Democrats who are fighting the same corrupt scheme to let politicians choose their voters instead of voters choosing their politicians, a press release reads.

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The multi-state effort demonstrates that [President] Trumps nationwide redistricting pressure campaign faces growing resistance from Democratic lawmakers willing to join House Democrats and defend their constituents representation, it adds.

The press conference is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. EDT.

Watch the live video above.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Aug. 13 (UPI) -- A mysterious spiraling light spotted in the night sky over the eastern United States sparked UFO speculation online, but was likely the result of a rocket launch.

Witnesses reported seeing the ball of light, which appeared to have a spiral shape around it, in the Tuesday night sky over New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, with some reports indicating it was seen as far west as Ohio.

Photos and videos of the light sparked speculation online, with some suggesting it could be a sign of extraterrestrial visitors.

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Others pointed out, however, that the timing of the light coincided with the United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur rocket, which took off shortly before 9 p.m. Tuesday in Cape Canaveral, Fla.

The rocket was carrying an an experimental navigation satellite into orbit for the U.S. military.

A second rocket was also launched around the same time in Africa.
Get ready for a colorful, starry spectacle!



Tonights skies promise a dazzling double feature: the fiery star dance of the Perseid meteor shower paired with the otherworldly glow of the northern lights.



The Perseids are one of the most beloved annual meteor showers, known for their bright fireballs that streak across the night sky every year in August. These meteors are caused by debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle, burning up in Earths atmosphere at lightning speeds.



The average person under dark skies could see somewhere between 40 and 50 Perseids per hour, NASA explains. Instead, youre probably going to see 10 to 20 per hour or fewer, and thats because we have a bright moon in the sky washing out the fainter meteors.

Meanwhile, the northern lights  also known as the aurora borealis  occur when charged solar particles collide with gases in Earths atmosphere, creating waves of color that ripple across the sky.

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Whether you're a casual stargazer or devoted astro-photographer, this rare overlap offers an unforgettable light show.



Heres how and when to look up and catch a glimpse.

When will the northern lights be visible?

Getty The northern lights coronal display in Alaska. The northern lights coronal display in Alaska.

The aurora show continues!

Northern lights may put on a display tonight, Aug. 13, specifically for those in the far northern regions.

According to NOAAs Space Weather Prediction Center, fast-moving solar winds are still brushing past Earth due to multiple coronal holes. While these conditions can trigger auroral activity, the likelihood of a minor G1 geomagnetic storm is beginning to gradually decrease.

If the weather permits  with dark, clear skies  northern parts of Canada, as well as Alaska, can catch quick glimpses of the northern lights. NOAA forecasts also suggest the Kp index may reach about 3.67 at maximum within the next 24 hours.

What is the Perseid meteor shower?

Thilina Kaluthotage/NurPhoto via Getty Annual perseid meteor seen in the sky on August 14, 2023, in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka. Annual perseid meteor seen in the sky on August 14, 2023, in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most anticipated celestial events each year, lighting up summer skies with a rain-or-shine flurry of shooting stars. It occurs annually as Earth moves through the stream of debris left behind by comet Swift-Tuttle. When those tiny particles hit our atmosphere at high velocity, they ignite, creating the bright flashes we call meteors.

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Named after the constellation Perseus, where the meteors appear to originate, the Perseids are especially popular for their speed, brightness and the large number of meteors they produce.



Whether you're a first-time observer or a seasoned sky-watcher, this shower of stars offers one of the most thrilling shows the night sky has to offer.



When does the Perseid meteor shower peak?

Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Perseid meteor shower is observed over the Lick Observatory at Mount Hamilton in California, United States on August 13, 2023 Perseid meteor shower is observed over the Lick Observatory at Mount Hamilton in California, United States on August 13, 2023

The Perseid meteor shower is active each year from around mid-July to late August, offering a generous window for skywatchers to catch a glimpse of its streaking fireballs.

This year, the peak is expected overnight from Aug. 12 into the early hours of Aug. 13, according to Space.com. Thats typically when the shower produces its highest meteor rate. While a bright moon could interfere with visibility, the Perseids are famous for their bold fireballs, creating large, brilliant meteors that can still cut through the glow.

How to watch the Perseids meteor shower?

VCG via Getty A man watches the Perseid meteor shower on the Pamir Plateau on August 13, 2021 in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. A man watches the Perseid meteor shower on the Pamir Plateau on August 13, 2021 in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China.

For the best chance to catch the Perseid meteors, head outside a few hours before sunrise, though meteors may begin appearing as early as 10 p.m. local time, according to Space.com.



To get the most out of the experience, give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and look toward the sky about 40 degrees above the Perseus constellation.

When is the next meteor shower after the Perseids?

Once the Perseids pass, the next major shower to mark your calendar for is the Orionids. While theyre typically less dramatic than the Perseids, the Orionids can still offer a stunning show, especially in areas with minimal light pollution and clear skies.

This year, they are set to peak between Oct. 22 and Oct. 23.

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Credit: ULA

United Launch Alliance (ULA) launched its most powerful Vulcan rocket yet on Tuesday night (Aug. 12).

The company lofted an experimental navigation satellite on behalf of the U.S. military Tuesday at 8:56 p.m. EDT (0056 GMT on Aug. 13). The mission saw the company's powerful new Vulcan Centaur rocket take off from Space Launch Complex 41 (SLC-41) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

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Vulcan launched with four side-mounted solid rocket boosters in order to generate enough thrust to send its payload directly into geosynchronous orbit on one of ULA's longest flights ever, a seven-hour journey that will span over 22,000 miles (35,000 kilometers), according to ULA .

A United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket launches the USSF-106 mission for the U.S. Space Force from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Aug. 12, 2025. | Credit: ULA

The payload launching on Tuesday's mission was the U.S. military's first experimental navigation satellite to be launched in 48 years. It is what's known as a position, navigation and timing (PNT) satellite, a type of spacecraft that provides data similar to that of the well-known GPS system.

This satellite will be testing many experimental new technologies that are designed to make it resilient to jamming and spoofing , according to Andrew Builta with L3Harris Technologies, the prime contractor for the PNT payload integrated onto a satellite bus built by Northrop Grumman.

The satellite, identified publicly only as Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3), features a phased array antenna that allows it to "focus powerful beams to ground forces and combat jamming environments," Builta said in a media roundtable on Monday (Aug. 11). GPS jamming has become an increasingly worrisome problem for both the U.S. military and commercial satellite operators, which is why this spacecraft will be conducting experiments to test how effective these new technologies are at circumventing jamming attacks .

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In addition, the satellite features a software architecture that allows it to be reprogrammed while in orbit. "This is a truly game-changing capability," Builta said.

The 202-foot-tall (61-meter) Vulcan Centaur has made two successful flights thus far. The rocket's first flight in January 2024 saw Vulcan launch Astrobotic's Peregrine lunar lander toward the moon  only for the lander to suffer an anomaly and fall back to Earth through no fault of the rocket.

The second Vulcan Centaur launch took place in October 2024 when the rocket launched a mass simulator meant to prepare it for lofting Sierra Space's Dream Chaser space plane. That flight was supposed to launch the actual Dream Chaser, but the vehicle wasn't ready in time .

That second flight also saw an anomaly, this time on the rocket's end. About 39 seconds into flight, a burst of flame and material was seen emanating from the Vulcan. The anomaly was later attributed to a manufacturing defect on a nozzle on one of the rocket's solid side boosters.

A burst of flame sparks from United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur rocket about 39 seconds after liftoff on the Cert-2 test flight on Oct. 4, 2024. | Credit: United Launch Alliance

Vulcan overcame the anomaly, and ULA declared the flight a success. The U.S. Space Force then certified Vulcan Centaur for national security launches such as today's mission. That brings the number of launch providers certified to launch military and spy satellites to two, the other being SpaceX.

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Vulcan Centaur has already been tapped to launch over two dozen national security missions on behalf of the U.S. Space Force, according to ULA. The rocket can launch from both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Editor's note: This story was updated at 9:10 p.m. ET on Aug. 12 with news of successful liftoff.
The Pierce County Republican Party will not have a booth at this year's fair due to a dispute with fair officials over signature-gathering efforts and the sale of merchandise. Photo courtesy of the Pierce County Republican Party

(The Center Square)  For the first time in many years, the Pierce County Republican Party will not have a booth at the Washington State Fair in Puyallup, Wash.  better known to locals as the Puyallup Fair.

Signature-gathering efforts for citizen initiatives and GOP merchandise are the purported reasons for Washington State Fair officials telling Pierce County Republican Party Chair Dave McMullan that he would have to relocate the partys booth to a different area this year.

Long-standing rules do not allow signature gathering or political merchandise sales in marketplace buildings to help maintain the guest experience, according to an email from WSF Public Relations Manager Stacy Van Horne.

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McMullan told The Center Square that the controversy started during the Washington State Spring Fair when someone complained about an Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, flag displayed at the Pierce County Republican Party booth.

According to McMullan, the flag was taken down an hour later, and that was the end of the incident.

He told The Center Square the party has always held signature gatherings and sold merchandise during the fair, and its never been a problem.

Weve been doing this for like five or six years, and we've been doing initiatives and we've been selling merchandise, and we always get a 10-by-30 booth in the ShowPlex, McMullan said. The ShowPlex is the most expensive area because it's the center area, and we moved into that in 2022."

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He explained that his organization met with fair officials after the spring fair to discuss concerns and thought they could work things out.

They didn't want signature gathering, but their reasoning was just nonsense, McMullan said. They tried to say, Well, you know, you can have information about the initiatives at your booth, but you can't have signatures, and I was like, Well, that's ludicrous. They wanted to send the initiatives over to what they call their freedom of speech area, which is over by the Green Gate on the back.

Fair officials defended their handling of the situation.

The Washington State Fair applies the same exhibitor guidelines to all organizations. These long-standing rules  including no signature gathering or political merchandise sales in marketplace buildings  help maintain the guest experience, Van Horne explained. Groups wishing to gather signatures may apply for space in the designated Free Speech area. The Pierce County Republicans were not denied space; they were asked to agree to these rules, and discussions are ongoing.

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McMullan said that after he refused to sign a new agreement with fair organizers, he has heard nothing more from the fair officials despite numerous attempts to communicate with them.

The Pierce County Republican Party will not be participating in the Washington State Fair this year due to newly imposed restrictions that prohibit us from offering merchandise for donations to support our work, as well as gathering signatures for citizen-led initiatives, The Pierce County Republican Party said in a post on Facebook. These activities have always been an important part of our outreach  allowing us to connect with voters, share our values, and support grassroots civic engagement.

The Center Square asked McMullan if he believed the pushback from fair officials was a result of the successful initiative campaigns of 2024.

Whenever there's been an initiative or any that Brian Heywood or [others] have sponsored, during our three or four weekends at the fair, we gather the most signatures of any other attempt around the state, McMullen noted. We don't run up to them and twist their arm and say, Sign your signature or I'm going to break your arm. We talk, and we have thousands of people that come by our booth, and its always busy.

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McMullan said the $15,000 cost of renting the fair booth for three weeks has been offset by merchandise sales, which the party is now prohibited from displaying since he turned down the new agreement.

Theyve seen the updated policy, the changes, last year when we changed them, and refuse to sign and adhere to the guidelines, Van Horne emailed The Center Square on Tuesday. Theyve been offered the Free Speech area.

They never, in any way, shape, or form, informed us of that, McMullan replied. In fact, we werent informed of it until we found out we werent automatically invited back to the fair.

McMullan said attorneys may get involved.

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The Center Square contacted Pierce County Democrats for comment on the matter.

We are aware of the situation regarding the Pierce County GOP and support the Fairs decision to enforce its long-standing guidelines, Chair Marianna Hyke emailed The Center Square. These rules are in place to ensure that the Fair remains a welcoming, family-friendly environment free from unauthorized electioneering or signature gathering.

The Washington State Fair runs from Aug. 29 through Sept. 21, and is closed on Tuesdays and Sept. 3.
More jobs at Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers faced "severe" shortages this year compared with last year, and more facilities reported shortages in doctors, a government watchdog found in a report released Tuesday.

This year, Veterans Health Administration facilities reported 4,434 severe occupational staffing shortages in jobs ranging from physicians to nurses to security guards to electricians, the VA's inspector general said in the report. That's compared to 2,959 total jobs with shortages last year -- or about a 50% increase.

Meanwhile, the inspector general estimated that 94% of facilities have severe shortages for medical officer jobs, compared with 86% last year.

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Read Next: A $13 Million Military Drone Was Lost in the Mediterranean Sea Because the Propeller Fell Off

A severe shortage is defined by the inspector general as a job that is particularly hard to fill and does not necessarily reflect a vacancy.

The inspector general reports annually on staff shortages at the VA, but this year's edition comes after months of warnings from veterans, department workers and Democratic lawmakers that VA Secretary Doug Collins and President Donald Trump's efforts to slash the VA workforce were bound to diminish care for veterans and are driving away top tier talent.

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Democrats quickly seized on the inspector general report as evidence they were right.

"This report makes clear the Trump VA's self-manufactured attrition crisis is neither strategic [n]or 'natural,'" Senate Veterans Affairs Committee ranking member Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said in a statement. "Secretary Collins and President Trump would have you believe there's 'nothing to see here.' Yet this report by an independent body with expertise in VA health care suggests otherwise about this administration's unforgivable efforts to privatize and cut VA health care."

Last month, the VA said it expects to cut about 30,000 jobs this year by relying on resignations, retirements and other forms of what a statement described as "normal" attrition. The announcement walked back a previous plan to fire about 80,000 employees that alarmed veterans.

The inspector general's report is based on questionnaires that were sent to VA facilities in March and April. Because of that, the report stressed, "the reported impact on staffing from [the Office of Personnel Management's] Deferred Resignation Program and VA's workforce reshaping efforts are not fully reflected in this report."

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Psychology was the top clinical job with a severe shortage this year, with 57% of facilities reporting it as a shortage, according to the report.

Psychology has been a persistently hard field to fill, landing in the top five of shortages every year since 2019. Amid the shortages, veterans have detailed struggles to get mental health appointments.

On the nonclinical side, VA police officer was the hardest job to fill, with 58% of facilities reporting it as a shortage, according to the report.

The report made no recommendations, but said the inspector general "encourages VA leaders to use these review results to inform staffing initiatives and organizational changes."

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Asked about the report Tuesday afternoon, the VA dismissed its utility.

"This statutorily required report is not based on actual VA health care facility vacancies and therefore is not a reliable indicator of staffing shortages," VA spokesperson Peter Kasperowicz said in a statement. "The report simply lists occupations facilities feel are difficult for which to recruit and retain, so the results are completely subjective, not standardized, and unreliable."

Vacancy rates, he added, are 14% for doctors and 10% for nurses.

The inspector general report also estimated that 79% of facilities face severe shortages for nursing jobs. That's a slight improvement from last year, when 82% of facilities faced nurse shortages.

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But VA nurses have been sounding the alarm about more cuts to come. On Tuesday, nurses at the Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center in Decatur, Georgia, held a rally to protest what they say are planned cuts to mental health staffing at the facility and shifts of personnel from its Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing, or HUD-VASH, team, which assists homeless veterans with rent and services.

The nurses said hospital leadership planned to reduce 55% of the staff from a case management team that helps veterans with serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder with psychosis.

"We provide vital lifesaving services to some of our most vulnerable vets who are without housing and facing serious mental health issues," said Dana Horton, a registered nurse and director of National Nurses United at the facility. "For many of these veterans, we are their closest allies as we address their serious mental health issues and provide regular care. We fear that cutting nurses from this program will result in increased severity of symptoms, hospitalizations, and the risk of suicide among our veterans."

Questions to the Atlanta VA facility about the concerns were referred to Kasperowicz, who denied that the medical center planned to reduce staff. He added that personnel were being reassigned from "low-demand specialties to those with higher demand."

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"Imagine how much better off veterans would be if government union bosses cared as much about fixing the department as they do about protecting its broken bureaucracy," Kasperowicz said in an email to Military.com. "These moves will improve care for veteran patients and have no negative impact on the Mental Health Intensive Case Management Program, which is seeing much lower caseloads than it previously has."

He also said that just one staff member on the HUD-VASH team was being reassigned.

Related: Plans for Mass VA Firings Scuttled, But Department Still Expects 30,000 Employees to Leave on Their Own
Police have been urged not to turn a blind eye to anti-Semitism after two men who targeted Orthodox Jews with water pistols were let off with a slap on the wrist.

The pair, who filmed themselves driving around Greater Manchester spraying pedestrians dressed in Orthodox clothing with an unidentified liquid, were arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated assault last week.

But Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has now imposed community resolution orders  the most lenient option available  after the pair apologised for their actions.

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Community resolutions, which carry no criminal record, can only be issued for hate crimes in exceptional circumstances should the offender admit the offence, the victim not wish to press charges and an inspector sign off on disposing the case.

But the leniency shown to the men, who sprayed adults and children before posting the footage to Instagram accompanied by the Jewish folk song Hava Nagila, has provoked outrage.

Public humiliation for profit

Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, urged police to look at the case again and take the most robust action.

He said: Spraying members of the Jewish community with water pistols while jeering from the safety of a car is cowardice. It is public humiliation for profit, fuelling online hate, and encourages others to join in.

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This is happening against the backdrop of over 1,500 anti-Semitic incidents in just the first half of this year, one of the highest totals ever recorded.

Jewish communities are being harassed, spat at, and attacked, and now filmed. This is not something Britain can turn a blind eye to.

The police should look again at this case and take the most robust action where possible. We cannot allow a Britain where Jewish families feel unsafe on their own streets simply because of their faith.

A spokesman for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: This was a racially aggravated crime that was filmed explicitly so that it could be widely publicised by the offenders.

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Restorative justice should never have been on the table in lieu of criminal proceedings. For years, we have seen anti-Semitic hate crime met with a slap on the wrist.

There is no deterrence, and now hate crime against Jews is spiralling out of control. A crime is a crime, and the authorities should be punishing those who break the law.

Polling has found that less than a tenth of British Jews believe that the authorities are doing enough to address and punish anti-Semitism, with eight in 10 believing police do not do enough to protect them.

Campaign groups have voiced concerns that a lack of faith in policing and the justice system has deterred Jewish people from attracting attention by pursuing legal action.

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A spokesman for GMP said the two men, aged 26 and 36, had been very apologetic since their arrest in Farnworth, Bolton, and informed police they would not repeat their actions. They have taken down their YouTube channel.

The force added that the victims and community members in this case were happy with the outcome, and that a rabbi who was sprayed said he wanted no further action taken.

The spokesman said: Ultimately, we must be victim-led. The victims didnt wish to support any form of prosecution or go to court. We cannot force them.

The issue is taken seriously, and it was dealt with as a crime, hence the arrests within less than 24 hours.

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We would always encourage victims of hate crime to come forward to us so incidents can be investigated, and should victims wish to move forward criminally, and we are able to satisfy the CPS evidence threshold for charging suspects, then that is what we would seek to do.

The two men have previously uploaded videos singling out Orthodox Jewish men for pranks in airports and supermarkets. The clips, which have attracted comments including rat, pig and nose emojis, have nearly a million likes on Instagram.

The pair later edited their posts featuring Orthodox Jews to include a disclaimer, which read: This video was made purely for humorous purposes. It is just a joke and not hate speech in any way. Please do not take it the wrong way.

One of the creators told the Jewish Chronicle: I honestly dont understand the hate were getting right now. It was just a simple water gun prank using a small toy  nothing more.

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I have two other water gun prank videos filmed with British people, and everyone was smiling, laughing, and the vibe was great.

I dont understand how this suddenly became labelled as hate speech. Its not hate speech in any way  its just a normal human joke, nothing offensive or targeted.

We do not accept being called hateful or being accused of spreading hate speech. Thats simply not true. We respect all people regardless of their race.

There was absolutely nothing anti-Semitic about it, and we thank you for reaching out and showing interest. Thank you.

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.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over his remarks on the Indus Water Treaty. Responding to Sharif's "enemy cannot snatch even a single drop of water from Pakistan" statement, Owaisi said, "BrahMos hai humaare paas" (We have BrahMos missile). "He should not talk such nonsense... Such threats will have no effect on India. Enough is enough," the AIMIM MP told the reporters. This comes after Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday claimed that any attempt to stop the flow of water into Pakistan is in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, and would be met with a "decisive response". Addressing an event in Islamabad, he said: "Enemy (India) can't snatch even a single drop of water from Pakistan. "He said, "You threatened to stop our water. If you attempt such a move, Pakistan will teach you a lesson you will never forget." Shehbaz emphasised that water was a lifeline for Pakistan, and no compromise would be made on the country's rights under international agreements, as per Geo News. Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April, which killed 26 people, India has, in exercise of its rights as a sovereign nation under international law, placed the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960, following nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan, with the assistance of the World Bank, which is also a signatory. The Treaty allocates the Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India. At the same time, the Treaty allows each country certain uses of the rivers allocated to the other. The treaty gives India 20 per cent of the water from the Indus River System and the rest 80 per cent to Pakistan. (ANI)
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  Water services have been restored at the Ballard Way Apartments in East Columbus after residents told WRBL News 3 that theyve been without water services since Monday.

Ballard Way is the former Hunter Haven Apartments on Hunter Road.

WRBL News 3 learned that the water was shut off by Columbus Water Works on Monday after the owners of the complex were behind on their water bill.

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In most cases, Columbus Water Works usually places residents and commercial customers on a disconnect list after 60 days of nonpayment, but for apartment complexes, residents are notified through signs posted by the water company for 14 days. If the payment is not made by then, the water is shut off.

Its up to the management company of that apartment complex to pay their bills just like any other residential customer, said Vic Birchfield, Executive Vice President of Columbus Water Works. Were simply trying to be fair to all of our other customers in order to collect the payments that are due on all accounts.

Water officials say the bill was paid at 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday. This marks the second time within the year that water services have been shut off at the complex.

WRBL News 3 reached out to the listed owner, who is located in Ohio and is still waiting for a response on the matter.

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Watermelon Pictures has acquired worldwide rights to Pistachio Wars, an investigative feature from journalist Yasha Levine and filmmaker Rowan Wernham examining the role of billionaires Stewart and Lynda Resnick in Californias water crisis. Adam McKay (Dont Look Up, Vice) has joined the project as executive producer.

Shot over several years, the documentary traces how the Resnicks built The Wonderful Company into a leading player in the states lucrative nut industry, while consuming more water annually than the city of Los Angeles. The film details how the couple allegedly gained influence over key elements of Californias public water system amid intensifying drought, as well as the environmental impact of large-scale agriculture, including the use of chemically tainted wastewater for irrigation. It also investigates lobbying efforts aimed at deregulating water and limiting environmental protections and explores ties between the pistachio trade and U.S. foreign policy toward Iran.

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Watermelons head of acquisitions and production, Munir Atalla, negotiated the deal with Wernham and Levine, with Nika Soon-Shiong advising.

Watermelon Pictures plans to release Pistachio Wars later this fall.

Founded in 2024 by brothers Hamza and Badie Ali, the Chicago-based distributor focuses on films from underrepresented filmmakers and earned an Oscar shortlist for its debut release From Ground Zero, Palestines official submission to the 97th Academy Awards.

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IROQUOIS COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA)  A worker at Lyon LLC. in Watseka died over the weekend after an overhead door fell on top of him, the Iroquois County Coroner said.

William Cheatum, coroner, said 64-year-old Richard Malone of Watseka was closing the plant up when his shift ended around 3 a.m. on Saturday. Cheatum said Malone tried to shut an overhead door, but it was stuck.

Champaign woman killed in scooter vs. vehicle crash

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Malone attempted to fix the door, but it fell on top of him. Cheatum said preliminary findings indicate that Malone died from blunt force injuries. He was pronounced dead at 4:27 a.m. on Saturday, Cheatum said.

Now, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is investigating. WCIA has reached out to OSHA to learn more about the investigation, but did not immediately hear back.

WCIA also reached out to Lyons for comment, and is awaiting a response.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN)  Wawa company leaders officially broke ground Tuesday on the companys first location in Murfreesboro, one of six they plan to open in Middle Tennessee before the end of 2026.

Currently, site plans for three locations have been approved by the Murfreesboro City Council. Those will be built on Veterans Parkway, Bradyville Pike and New Salem Highway.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Northeast natives showed up to Tuesdays groundbreaking ceremony, eager to welcome the chain to Middle Tennessee.

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I think its really going to bring the community together because the people who love Wawa are loyal fans, Murfreesboro resident Heather Gravley told News 2. They are like the Eagles; they are like the Phillies. They just love their Wawa. They love the hoagies, bringing hoagies to Tennessee is huge, not subs, hoagies. And the coffee. This town is such a wonderful town and such a wonderful community with the most beautiful spirit, and to have a company like this come to our area and it is a taste of home.

Each Wawa location employs about 35 people. Over the next 10 years, company leaders plan to open 50 Wawa locations across Middle Tennessee.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
NEW YORK (AP)  Harvey Weinstein faces sentencing and a possible retrial in his New York City sex crimes case, but it's still unclear when theyll happen  and whether the former movie mogul will end up in front of another jury at all.

Manhattan Judge Curtis Farber said Wednesday he could sentence Weinstein on Sept. 30, but only if theres no retrial on a rape charge that the last jury failed to decide. If there is a retrial, the judge wants it to happen this fall.

Prosecutors and Weinstein's lawyers vowed Wednesday that they were willing to square off at yet another trial  it would be his third in New York and fourth overall.

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But Weinsteins lawyers arent ruling out the possibility of reaching a deal to resolve the case, though they also emphasize hes not willing to plead guilty to raping Mann, and they are pressing prosecutors simply to abandon that charge.

Weinstein, 73, was convicted in June of forcing oral sex on TV and movie production assistant and producer Miriam Haley in 2006. The charge carries a possible sentence of up to 25 years in prison.

At the same time, the jury acquitted him of forcing oral sex on another woman, one-time model Kaja Sokola, but couldnt decide a charge that he raped hairstylist and actor Jessica Mann in 2013.

Manhattan prosecutors reiterated Wednesday that they and Mann are ready for another trial on the rape charge. In this case, any conviction is punishable by up to four years in prison  less than Weinstein has already served, and far less than the potential 25 years he faces for his conviction related to Haley.

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Prosecutors requested a January trial date, but Farber proposed the fall.

The case needs to be tried this year, Farber said.

Weinstein lawyer Arthur Aidala agreed, urging the judge to set the earliest possible date.

If a fall trial happens, it would likely put Weinsteins high-profile #MeToo case back in court as Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is in the final stage of his reelection bid.

Bragg, a first-term Democrat who made prosecuting sex crimes cases a priority, has expressed satisfaction with Weinstein's conviction on a criminal sex act charge related to Haley. Bragg has said Mann deserves a verdict on her part of the case.

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This work, first and foremost, is about the survivors, and thats why were prepared to go forward," Bragg said in June.

Aidala told reporters outside court that, in his view, its up to prosecutors to resolve the rape charge  either by dropping it and clearing the way for sentencing, or by promptly taking it to trial again.

Weinstein sat in court in a wheelchair while wearing a blue suit and black-rimmed glasses. The Pulp Fiction and Shakespeare in Love producer is committed to fighting the rape charge at another trial, Aidala said, though the lawyer added: Ive been doing this long enough to say never say never.

At Weinsteins first trial in 2020, jurors convicted him of raping Mann and forcing oral sex on Haley.

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Then an appeals court overturned those convictions and sent the case back for retrial because of legal issues involving other womens testimony.

This spring, a new jury convicted him again of sexually assaulting Haley and acquitted him of doing the same to another woman who wasnt part of the first trial. But amid fractious deliberations, the majority-female jury got stuck on the charge related to Mann.

Mann has testified that she also had a consensual, on-and-off relationship with the then-married Weinstein, but that she told him I dont want to do this as he cornered her in the hotel room. She said he persevered with advances and demands until she just gave up.

Weinstein also stands convicted of sex crimes in California; he's appealing that verdict. He denies all of the allegations against him.

The Associated Press generally does not name people who allege they have been sexually assaulted unless they give permission to be identified. Haley and Mann have done so.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The West Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office has arrested a man accused of selling products with illegal drugs in them.

Md Saiful Islam of Baton Rouge, 41, was charged with distribution of Schedule I CDS  Tianeptine and possession with intent to distribute Schedule I CDS  Kratom.

Deputies said narcotics agents conducted an undercover operation at Bros Food Mart on North Alexander Avenue, targeting the possession and sale of illegal products with tianeptine and kratom.

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What is kratom? Possession leads to prison, $50K fine in Louisiana

Agents secured a search warrant at the business and seized packages containing the drugs. As a result, Islam was arrested and booked into the West Baton Rouge Detention Center.

No bond has been set yet.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  The decision to build a new hospital in west Dayton could be in the hands of voters this November.

The Clergy Community Coalition held a press conference on Tuesday to announce progress toward reaching their goal.

We are very pleased to announce that were turning in 2,800 signatures into the clerk of the commission, said Bishop Richard Cox, CCC president.

It was back to the drawing board after Dayton City Commissioners were split with a 2-2 vote and one abstention just three weeks ago over the imitative to add the hospital petition to the ballot.

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In just 20 days, the coalition gathered even more signatures from the community, in order to put it on the ballot regardless of the commissions vote.

The CCC says its a step in the right direction, and couldnt have been done without the communitys support.

I think its a win-win for the city. It would provide adequate health care and alleviate the health care desert that were now living in, said Cox. Its also a win-win for the city commission because then the politicians that we elected to serve us can still work with us as we pursue this effort.

If the petition goes through the Montgomery County Board of Elections once all the signatures are verified, it will be up to the people of Dayton to make the choice in November.

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However, the coalition says they still want to work with the commissioners regardless of how they initially voted.

Were still interested in working with you. We elected you to serve us, and we want to work with you to make sure that the citizens of Dayton in this upcoming election, get the services they need from the people that they have elected, said Cox.

However, if the initiative does pass, there will not be adequate money to immediately build a hospital.

The coalition says they plan to go to the state and some potential partners for investment money, although they have not revealed who those partners would be.

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They also say they are not naive to think the project will happen overnight. But they do have some target goals in mind.

Its all incremental and it will take time. But our hope would be that we have something standing by 2032, said Nancy Kiehl, CCC secretary.

2 NEWS reached out to Dayton City Commissioners for comment, with one commissioner replying that he would share a statement once the signatures were verified and in the hands of the board of elections.

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WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The West Springfield Police Department is seeking the publics help in identifying the owner of a dog found last Friday.

How thunderstorms can impact your dogs behavior and health

In a social media post by the West Springfield Police Department, the male bully breed was located during the evening hours in the area of Sibley Ave. and Westfield Street.

(West Springfield Police Department)

If you have any information about the owner, contact animal control at 413-263-3210 extension 9 and reference case number 25-15304.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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Mason, Tennessee Mayor Eddie Noeman, and Christa Poindexter, yell at each other during a Tuesday meeting of the Mason Board of Alderman. Naeman supported the creation of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center; Poindexter did not. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

Officials in the small West Tennessee town of Mason on Tuesday approved a contract with private prison corporation CoreCivic to operate the former West Tennessee Detention Facility as an immigration detention facility.

The Mason Board of Mayor and Aldermen called a special meeting to review two contracts: one between the town and CoreCivic, and one between the town and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

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After a chaotic exchange between aldermen and a crowd of constituents and residents of nearby towns in West Tennessee, the board approved the CoreCivic contract 4-1 with two abstentions. The ICE contract passed 3-2 with two abstentions.

Neither document was provided to the public prior to the meeting, and town attorney Nathan Bicks said he and others were working on the CoreCivic contract until Monday, giving the board about 24 hours to review it in its final form before the vote.

Crowds flanked the 1,500-person towns Main Street more than 40 minutes before the meeting began, holding signs decrying ICE and opposing the facilitys reopening.

We need everybodys support, everybodys business here. We open arms for everybody. Were not against nobody.

 Mason Mayor Eddie Noeman

The 600-bed prison closed in 2021 after the Department of Justice, under order from then-President Joe Biden, did not renew its contract with CoreCivic to operate the facility. President Donald Trump reversed Bidens order against contracting with private detention facilities in January.

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Mason Mayor Eddie Noeman, the first Egyptian immigrant to represent the town, voted in favor of both contracts, citing the job and economic opportunities that would come with reopening the facility.

We need everybodys support, everybodys business here, he said. We open arms for everybody. Were not against nobody.

Alderman Virginia Rivers, who previously served as the towns vice mayor, disagreed.

I feel you should have been notified and made aware of this situation before now, Rivers told the audience. I understand and support the need to deport actual criminals, but the majority of the people who are being deported and detained are lawful citizens.

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We, as the officials of the Town of Mason that was elected by the citizens, should consider the consequences and the hurt that this will cause our local community, our neighbors, Tennessee schools, and many families, Rivers said, adding that entering into a contract with CoreCivic and ICE would make our city complicit in the abusive treatment of immigrants.

Attendees at Tuesdays meeting of the Mason, Tennessee Board of Mayor and Alderman look on from seats in the non- air conditioned Mason Fire Department Garage. (John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

Mason officials held the meeting in the Mason Fire Department garage across the street from Mason City Hall to accommodate some of the larger crowd. The remaining audience stood outside the garage doors, chanting and drumming through most of the meeting. Officials passed around a microphone attached to a karaoke machine, and audience members repeatedly yelled out that they could not hear what officials were saying.

The majority of audience members who spoke at the meeting opposed the contracts.

Those who spoke in support pointed to property tax, impact fees and utility revenue that would come from the facility. CoreCivic stated the facility would generate about $325,000 in annual property taxes, and an estimated $1.2 million in annual utility payments. When fully operational, the facility would generate about $200,000 in annual impact fees to the town, according to the company.

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I understand and support the need to deport actual criminals, but the majority of the people who are being deported and detained are lawful citizens.

 Alderman Virginia Rivers

Eloise Thompson, a fifth-generation resident of nearby Fayette County, said she was against Mason becoming a for-profit center for human suffering.

She said Mason has other alternatives to create jobs and stimulate the local economy that speak more to the character of who we are.

Darryle Donell, a veteran and Mason resident, said he previously worked at the facility when it was run by Corrections Corporation of America, which later became CoreCivic.

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That prison aint never been good for the town, he said, calling for transparency, honesty and loyalty from town leaders. I dont see no prison. I see a concentration camp.

Christa Poindexter, another Mason resident, approached Noeman during the meeting and asked why he supported the contracts.

I want the job. Jobs, he said.

At one point, at least three board members  Noeman, Vice Mayor Reynaldo Givhan, and Alderman Alethea Harris  exited the building during a period of public comment.

A protester of a CoreCivic immigration detention center in Mason holds signs outside the meeting. (John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

Givhan voted in favor of the CoreCivic contract but abstained from voting on the ICE contract.

When I moved here 20 years ago, CCA or CoreCivic employed several of my family members, and it was thriving, he said after the meeting adjourned. I was actually excited when we first got word that they were coming, that it was going to reopen.

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The negative connotation thats connected with just the word ICE  you feel it, and in your heart of hearts, you have to be able to look at yourself in the mirror, he said of his abstention.

Givhan said he exited the building, which was not air conditioned, during the meeting to get some air and pray. He said he did not talk to other board members and did not see other members talking to each other.

CoreCivic Public Affairs Manager Brian Todd said 2,100 people have already applied for the roughly 240 job openings at the facility. These roles would pay a starting salary of about $26.50 per hour, according to a statement distributed by CoreCivic representatives at the meeting.

You all may feel that theres no oversight and accountability at the facility, and that is far, far from the truth, CoreCivic representative Jerry Langford said. The facility will operate with strong oversight and accountability  our government partners will have a presence at that facility while were operating, including regular audits and on-site monitors. Both our company and the government partners share a deep commitment to humane care.

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A kitchen worker at an Israeli summer camp in the Berkshires drowned on Sunday while swimming in a lake used by the camp, the Berkshire County District Attorneys Office announced Monday.

In the late afternoon on Aug. 10, 21-year-old Mexican national Miguel Rodriguez Perez drowned in the area of Lake Buel in Monterrey used by Camp Halfmoon for swimming, the district attorneys office said in a press release.

We are devastated by Miguels passing and are thinking of his family and friends at this difficult time. Due to the ongoing review of the incident by the local authorities, as well as out of respect for his familys privacy, we are going to refrain from commenting further, Camp Halfmoon Director Yael Skikne said in a statement Tuesday night.

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In a letter to Camp Halfmoons neighbors on Lake Buel, Skikne said that the camps second session had just ended when Rodriguez Perez drowned and that no campers were on site. At the time, he was enjoying a day off from work with his coworkers at the lake, which was closed and had no lifeguards.

I want to reassure you that during all official camp activities, including lake time, we follow strict safety protocols that meet or exceed the State of Massachusetts requirements, Skikne wrote.  ... The safety, health, and well-being of our campers and staff is our highest priority, and we remain committed to providing a safe and joyful experience to those entrusted in our care every single day.

Two other men who worked in the camps kitchen with Rodriguez Perez were swimming with him when he drowned, the district attorneys office said. Rodriguez Perez was swimming from an inflatable water structure to the camps dock when he slipped below the surface of the lake.

The two other kitchen workers looked for Rodriguez Perez, but did not find him, the district attorneys office said. Soon, other people who were out on the lake came to help them search, and 911 calls were made.

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About 15 minutes later, Rodriguez Perez was found submerged under the docks ladder, the district attorneys office said. Someone had begun doing CPR on him before first responders arrived and took him to Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington.

Rodriguez Perez was then flown by medical helicopter to Hartford Hospital, the district attorneys office said. He was declared dead early Monday morning.

The Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has taken jurisdiction of the case, the district attorneys office said. No further information has been released.

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The Supreme Court on Wednesday was told by the Telangana government that it is in the process of coming out with a holistic development plan with respect to the Kancha Gachibowli forest area, where large-scale felling of trees had taken place. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi told a bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran that in compliance with earlier directives of the apex court, all tree-cutting actions have been halted. "The court shouldn't have any concern about that. Now we want to come up with a much larger plan where our forests, lakes... It will take some time," said Singhvi CJI Gavai asked Singhvi to come up with a good proposal. "If you come with a good proposal, we will withdraw all (suo motu proceedings against the State) and give you a real compliment... We want the environment to be protected," said CJI. In its order, the apex court recorded the state's submission and said, "We appreciate it.... Time and again, the court has observed that the court is not against development, but development has to be sustainable development. While carrying development activities the interest of environment and wildlife has to be taken care of by ensuring mitigating and compensatory measures." Singhvi sought a six-week time to place the proposal before it, which the bench granted The apex court was hearing a suo motu case initiated in the wake of the large-scale felling of trees by the state in the forest area of Kancha Gachibowli Earlier, while hearing the case of deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area in Telangana, the bench had said that while sustainable development is important, it does not mean that forests can be destroyed overnight with bulldozers. 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 fell 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 justifies the felling of trees. While taking suo moto cognisance of the felling of trees in the forest area in Kancha Gachibowli, the bench had stayed the felling of trees at the site and warned the Chief Secretary of the consequences if its order is not complied with. It had been ordered that until further orders, there shall be no activity of any sort at the site, except for the 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. The University of Hyderabad students were protesting against the auction of the land and wanted the land to be transferred to the university. (ANI)
The Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department has been cited for serious safety violations following the death of one of its firefighters who was battling the Hawthorne fire on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin last fall, officials said.

Firefighter Robert Sharkey Sharkevich Sr. died on Oct. 22, 2024, when the utility task vehicle he was riding in rolled over, throwing him from the vehicle. Three additional firefighters sustained minor injuries and were treated without hospitalization.

According to a report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the department committed several safety violations and a $640 citation was issued to the town of Wethersfield on Jan. 27. The report listed the violations as serious.

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The report found that seatbelts and headgear were not worn during the accident, the UTV was carrying too much weight and that the firefighters operating the UTV did not have appropriate training. The UTV was also found to be operating on uneven terrain, the report said.

The brush fire, one of the largest in the state in decades, burned more than 100 acres, according to officials. Multiple municipal fire departments, state agencies and the Connecticut National Guard were involved in battling the blaze.

The report said that the department has since taken corrective action, making several changes to their standard operating procedure, including offering additional training with UTVs. The department has also purchased certified helmets for UTV operations.

A document submitted by the Wethersfield Fire Department to the Connecticut Department of Labor outlines several new rules the department will adhere to ensuring OSHA compliance. Those new rules include no more than two people and one patient may ride in/on a UTV at any given time and that operators and passengers must now wear seatbelts and helmets. In addition, UTV operators must have received appropriate safety and training including a safety lecture, handling and maneuvering course, and obstacle course. The new rules began March 1, according to the states Department of Labor.

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The Connecticut Fire Academy has been offering UTV training since last September, according to Director of Training PJ Norwood.

We started delivering the course ironically a month before the Wethersfield firefighters tragic death, but we saw a need for this training at the academy for firefighters and law enforcement, Norwood said. Since its inception, we have delivered 17 classes and certified just over 208 firefighters. We also have trained 51 instructors as well on how to teach operating a UTV.

UTVs has become an essential part of firefighting, Norwood said. They are most often used in brush fires since regular firefighting trucks cant reach into the woods or brush. UTVs are designed to handle several types of terrain and carry equipment, gear, and patients. The Connecticut Fire Academy UTV training includes an all-day classroom and driving course where firefighters learn about personal protective equipment and drive on various types of terrain, he said.

Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com.
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL)  To boost support for military students, WFISD is implementing a new program on each campus this year.

Starting this school year, every campus will have a campus-based military liaison for students whose parents are stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base.

The liaisons will be a point of contact who understands the unique experiences of military families, helping ensure each military student feels valued and supported.

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There are 18 liaisons in total, spread throughout the district. Your liaison can be found on WFISDs Facebook page.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com.
- WGN

WGN has named Akemi Harrison as director of news and multi-platform content, effective August 25.

Harrison will lead all newsgathering and production across all local, national, political and digital platforms associated with WGN-TV, WGN+, wgntv.com, and the WGN-TV mobile app.

"As media consumption continues to evolve into a multiplatform experience, we are thrilled to have Akemi Harrison join and lead our WGN content team," said WGN vice president and general manager Ric Harris. "Akemi is a highly accomplished news and media executive who understands the importance of compelling storytelling and engaging audiences across all platforms."

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Harrison was the news director at NBC Chicago and Telemundo Chicago. She joined the team as assistant news director in August 2021 and was named news director in 2023.

"I'm thrilled to join such an incredible team of journalists who have led the market in both ratings and community engagement for decades. Growing up in Mississippi, I watched WGN and never imagined I'd one day be in a leadership role there," said Harrison. "My leadership philosophy is simple: support our incredible talent and dare to innovate. It's an honor to build on WGN's powerful legacy, and I'm excited to weave in a future-forward approach to ensure we continue to dominate the market."

She has more than 20 years of media and newsroom experience, serving previously as assistant news director at NBC Connecticut, executive producer for WPXI-TV in Pittsburgh, and in a variety of news editorial and management roles for television stations in the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento, California.




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Donald Trump's White House sent a letter to the Smithsonian this week, directing the institution to ensure its museums align with the president's vision, according to The Wall Street Journal

Eight Smithsonian museums have been directed to thoroughly review and update their exhibitions, internal communications, featured artists and more

The directive comes with a deadline, as the Trump administration readies its plans for America's 250th anniversary next year





The White House continued its cultural crackdown on the Smithsonian this week, pressuring the institution to review its exhibits and operations and align them with President Donald Trump's view of American history.

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On Tuesday, Aug. 12, The Wall Street Journal reported on a letter that was sent by three top White House officials to Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch. According to the outlet, the letter followed up on the directive laid out in Trump's March 27 executive order, titled Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which targeted the Smithsonian museums by name.

The executive order read, in part, "Once widely respected as a symbol of American excellence and a global icon of cultural achievement, the Smithsonian Institution has, in recent years, come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology. This shift has promoted narratives that portray American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive."

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

The new White House letter offers specifics on how the Smithsonian can achieve "alignment" with the president's vision.

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Following a thorough review of exhibitions, internal communications, visitor surveys, featured artists, outside partners and more, the museums are then instructed to make updates that replace "divisive or ideologically driven" language with "unifying, historically accurate" content.

The directive comes with a deadline, as the Trump administration readies its plans for America's 250th anniversary celebration in Washington next year. The Smithsonian is expected to submit extensive documentation of its review within 30 days before starting to make the expected changes.

This is about preserving trust in one of our most cherished institutions, said White House senior associate Lindsay Halligan, one of the officials who signed the letter, in a statement. The Smithsonian museums and exhibits should be accurate, patriotic, and enlighteningensuring they remain places of learning, wonder, and national pride for generations to come.

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty President Donald Trump tours the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in February 2017 President Donald Trump tours the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in February 2017

The Smithsonian was diplomatic in its reply to the White House letter, saying, The Smithsonians work is grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history. We are reviewing the letter with this commitment in mind and will continue to collaborate constructively with the White House, Congress, and our governing Board of Regents.

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However, The Wall Street Journal spoke with historians who fear that the president's vendetta against so-called "diversity, equity and inclusion" initiatives may have a negative impact on the Smithsonian's ability to give a comprehensive look at U.S. history.

The Smithsonian museums have never reflected one persons view, or even one administrations view, Harvard history professor Tiya Miles told the outlet. They have reflected the composite research, analysis, discussion, findings of many different people, scholars and researchers.

Sarah Weicksel, executive director of the American Historical Association, agreed, telling WSJ, If those things are taken out of the hands of historians, the public stands to lose a great deal in having reliable and engaging content that tells a whole and complex story of the American past."

Following his March executive order, Trump's White House has already been accused of trying to rewrite history at the Smithsonian.

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On July 31, The Washington Post reported on a recent change to an exhibit at the National Museum of American History titled "The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden." A section of the display is dedicated to U.S. presidents who have faced impeachment, and includes information about Andrew Jackson, Bill Clinton and Richard Nixon. (While Jackson and Clinton were successfully impeached, Nixon resigned the presidency before getting to that point.)

Since September 2021, the exhibit had featured a temporary label about Trump's historic two impeachments, along with a notice for visitors that read: Case under redesign (history happens).

However, the Post reported that the label was removed in July "as part of a content review that the Smithsonian agreed to undertake following pressure from the White House to remove an art museum director."

Without no mention of Trump, the exhibit has now reverted back to suggesting that only three presidents have seriously faced removal, despite that Trump has more experience with impeachment than any other president.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

A Smithsonian spokesperson told the Post at the time that the Trump label was merely intended to be "a short-term addition to address current events."

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In reviewing our legacy content recently, it became clear that the Limits of Presidential Power section in 'The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden' exhibition needed to be addressed, the spokesperson said in a statement.

The section of this exhibition covers Congress, The Supreme Court, Impeachment, and Public Opinion. Because the other topics in this section had not been updated since 2008, the decision was made to restore the Impeachment case back to its 2008 appearance.



Read the original article on People
The White House said Tuesday that homeless people in the nations capital could be subject to fines and jail time as the administration cracks down on crime.

The homeless problem has ravaged the city, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters.

Homeless individuals will be given the option to leave their encampment, to be taken to a homeless shelter, to be offered addiction or mental health services, and if they refuse, they will be susceptible to fines or to jail time.

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Leavitt said the administration plans to enforce existing Washington laws that have been completely ignored, after President Trump on Monday announced a takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the activation of National Guard troops.

She cited D.C. Code 22-1307 and D.C. municipal regulation 24-100 as giving the MPD the authority to take action on homelessness and encampments in the capital city, and said the administration will be using these regulations and code that already exists to clean up our streets.

Since Trump signed his Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful executive order in March, 70 homeless encampments have been removed by U.S. Park Police, Leavitt touted  and the remaining two encampments are scheduled for removal this week.

Trump over the weekend had urged homeless people in the District to move out, IMMEDIATELY as he vowed an overhaul.

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We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital, the president wrote on Truth Social.

Leavitt said Tuesday that moving homeless people far from the city isnt off the table and that the administration is exploring that option.

But again, homeless shelters, offered addiction and mental health services, or jail, if they refuse, are the options on the table right now, she said.

Trump has declared a public safety emergency in the District and assumed federal control of the MPD under the Home Rule Act, a provision that lets him take over the police force for up to 30 days. Congress would need to pass a joint resolution to extend it further. Hes tapped Terry Cole, the administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), to serve as the federal governments leader of the MPD.

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As for the timing, we will reevaluate and reassess and make further decisions after this 30-day period is up. But within these 30 days, our entire focus is making sure that this is the most efficient operation possible, Leavitt said Tuesday.

We look forward to working alongside the Metropolitan Police Department. And we did that last night, successfully, and we hope we can do that for the next 29 nights.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Aug. 12The city of Whitefish is facing a lawsuit for the role a police officer played in the federal detainment of a Venezuelan man earlier this year.

Officer Michael Hingiss contacted United States Customs and Border Patrol agents while conducting a routine traffic stop because the driver, Beker Rengifo del Castillo, only spoke Spanish, according to the complaint filed Monday in federal court in Missoula. The suit claims video and audio recordings of the stop show Hingiss telling Border Patrol dispatch, "Just out with a male that only speaks Spanish, wondering if you want to check him."

At the traffic stop's conclusion, Rengifo del Castillo was detained by Whitefish-based Border Patrol agents and transferred to the Northwest Immigration and Customs Enforcement Processing Center in Tacoma, Wash., where he was held for about a week before being released without charge.

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While the Whitefish Police Department did not directly detain Rengifo del Castillo, the lawsuit argues that Hingiss' actions catalyzed "a horrific and traumatic experience" in federal immigration custody. Rengifo del Castillo levels three counts against the officer for unconstitutional seizure, false arrest and violations of equal protection under the Fourteenth Amendment.

"You can't detain someone just for being non-white and speaking Spanish, especially when they hand you a valid REAL ID," said Andres Haladay, the attorney representing Rengifo del Castillo. "This apparent racial profiling violates both the Montana Constitution and the United States Constitution, and damages trust between community members and local law enforcement."

An incident report released by the Whitefish Police Department indicated that Hingiss initiated the traffic stop at about 4:17 p.m., April 24 due to a broken taillight on Rengifo del Castillo's vehicle. Hingiss reportedly followed Rengifo del Castillo and a coworker, who was driving a separate car, for about a mile from the pair's job site near Whitefish City Beach before he "swung his vehicle into the oncoming northbound traffic lane, accelerated past Beker's coworker and positioned himself directly behind Beker's vehicle."

Rengifo del Castillo handed Hingiss his REAL ID compliant driver's license as well as proof of insurance and registration for the vehicle. Hingiss then returned to his patrol vehicle and contacted Border Patrol dispatch and reported that he had pulled over "a male that only speaks Spanish," according to the lawsuit.

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"The only objective facts available to Hingiss when he deferred pursuing the traffic stop to initiate an immigration investigation were that Beker is not white, speaks Spanish, and had a valid REAL ID compliant driver's license establishing his lawful presence in the United States," reads the lawsuit.

In his own narrative of the traffic stop, Hingiss noted a language barrier and that Rengifo del Castillo "appeared nervous."

"Officer Hingiss requested a person check through U.S. Border Patrol Spokane Dispatch. Immigration violations have been an ongoing issue in Flathead County," he wrote.

After contacting Border Patrol officials, Hingiss reportedly stayed in his patrol vehicle for 10-12 minutes, which Rengifo del Castillo argues was "more than enough time for Hingiss to write a written warning." The lawsuit claims that, by delaying the traffic stop unnecessarily, Hingiss violated Rengifo del Castillo's Fourth Amendment rights against unconstitutional seizure.

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In 2015, the Supreme Court ruled that a traffic stop "become[s] unlawful it if is prolonged beyond the time reasonably required to complete the[e] mission of issuing a ticket for the violation."

When a Border Patrol agent arrived on-scene, Hingiss handed over Rengifo del Castillo's driver's license and issued Rengifo del Castillo a written warning for the broken taillight. The Border Patrol agent subsequently arrested Rengifo del Castillo though court documents indicated he had told Hingiss that Rengifo del Castillo "might have legal status."

Originally from Venezuela, Rengifo del Castillo moved to the Flathead Valley in July 2024 under a two-year humanitarian parole program. While the Trump administration has repeatedly targeted the program for elimination, a federal court order blocked the termination of parolee's legal status when Rengifo del Castillo was detained in late April.

Upper Seven Law, the Helena-based firm representing Rengifo del Castillo in the case, affirmed that Rengifo del Castillo also had a pending application for affirmative asylum. The firm stated that Rengifo del Castillo had never been subject to a federal detainer or order or removal nor did he have a criminal history. He had authorization to work in the U.S. and been issued a Social Security number.

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"Beker experienced trauma, stress, anxiety, fear and confusion from being detained without basis. Because of this incident, Beker is reluctant to leave his home and attempts to avoid all contact with law enforcement, fearing he will again be detained and incarcerated based on discrimination and without cause," reads the lawsuit.

In addition to the counts against Hingiss, the lawsuit includes a count against Police Chief Bridger Kelch for failing to appropriately train officers in immigration violations. The city of Whitefish faces four counts for unconstitutional seizure, negligence, false arrest and failure to train police officers.

According to Whitefish Police Department policies, all officers should receive training that includes "identifying civil versus criminal immigration violations" and "factors that may be considered in determining whether a criminal immigration offenses has been committed."

Records provided by the city of Whitefish to the Daily Inter Lake indicate that officers were issued training materials related to immigration violations four times between 2022 and 2024. Each training consisted of a single written scenario followed by one multiple-choice question. None of the scenarios focused on the difference between civil and criminal immigration violations or what factors may be considered in initiating a criminal immigration investigation.

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Images of the relevant training materials are available in the online version of this story.

Upper Seven Law Firm filed the lawsuit Aug. 11. U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen DeSoto will preside over the case. A hearing as not yet been scheduled.

Reporter Hailey Smalley can be reached at 758-4433 or hsmalley@dailyinterlake.com.

READ MORE:

As detainments ramp up, activists arm immigrants with knowledge

Whitefish Police officer cited immigration violations as reason for contacting federal authorities during traffic stop

Law enforcement agencies respond to questions spawned by recent detention of Venezuelan immigrant

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Border Patrol says detainment and release of immigrant in Whitefish justified

Venezuela man detained by Whitefish Border Patrol is released after week of protests

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

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A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.

A page of the training materials provided to Whitefish Police officers on immigration violations.
BALTIMORE  A new poll shows Democratic Gov. Wes Moore losing ground on his approval ratings in deep-blue Maryland  a downward shift political analysts and elected officials blame on anxiety and the economy.

Democrats, meanwhile, are calling the poll silly.

Conducted jointly in late July by Blended Public Affairs and lobbying firm Perry Jacobson, the poll asked more than 1,250 Marylanders via text message about a variety of political and economic issues. Of those surveyed, 50% rated Moores job performance as either excellent or good, 42% said he was not so good or poor, and 8% were not sure.

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Donna Victoria, Blendeds director of research, told The Baltimore Sun that other Democratic governors besides Moore, such as Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, have seen their approval ratings dip among party voters as they look for ways to fight back against Republican President Donald Trump. Moores approval rating among Democratic poll respondents was just 68%, according to Victoria.

Its people expressing their anxiety right now and saying, Cant you do something? Victoria said of the poll. It has to do with the economy. I dont think this slight drop has anything to do with Wes Moores job performance.

Moores office declined to comment on the poll, but referred The Baltimore Sun to a statement from the Democratic Governors Association, which called the poll silly.

Heres the numbers that actually matter: Governor Moore has created nearly 100,000 new jobs, unemployment is way down, and Baltimore has seen a 62 percent decrease in murders, the statement reads. While Donald Trump and national Republicans gut health care and raise costs, Governor Moore is fighting every day for Maryland  and thats why his leadership and record are strongly popular with voters.

Why the dip? Moore raised taxes

Victoria said Blendeds last Maryland poll, which was conducted six months ago, had Moores approval rating at 54%. Two other polls conducted by Gonzales Research and Media in the past year  in September 2024 and January 2025  measured the governors approval at 64% and 61%, respectively.

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Flavio Hickel, a political science professor at Washington College, said the decline in Moores approval rating could be an artifact of people feeling more negatively about the economy in general.

Only one quarter of poll respondents rated Marylands economy positively, while two-thirds said they pay too much in state taxes. The states final fiscal 2026 budget added several new taxes and fees, as Moore and state lawmakers worked to close a $3 billion deficit.

Hickel noted that the poll featured a higher share of college-educated respondents than the Maryland population overall. He said people with degrees are more likely to pay attention to tax issues and the states budget process, which proved politically challenging for Moore this year.

I think its likely [higher-educated] folks would be more attentive to tax issues, so that might explain those numbers, Hickel said. Perhaps that would have a trickle-down effect depressing Moore support, but I would also expect more educated folks to break Democratic and support Moore more than less educated.

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John Dedie, a political science professor at the Community College of Baltimore County, said he believes Moores true approval rating is a little higher than 50% because of the polls timing.

Polling during the summer usually has flaws because people are enjoying summers, theyre not thinking [about] politics as much, Dedie said.

State Senate Minority Whip Justin Ready, a Republican who represents Carroll and Frederick counties, told The Sun that Moores 50% rating could be because he raised taxes and increased the size of state government rather than be serious about getting spending under control long-term.

As for poll respondents blaming Trump, Ready said thats likely to happen in a blue state like Maryland.

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Donald Trump didnt raise their taxes, he said. Donald Trump isnt the reason Maryland is unaffordable.

Moore vs. predecessors

Moores 50% approval rating puts him well behind former Gov. Larry Hogan and on par with former Gov. Martin OMalley around the same point in their terms. Hogan had a 62% approval rating in September 2017 despite the unpopularity of Trump and national Republicans at the time, while OMalley had a 48% approval rating in September 2009 during the Great Recession.

House Majority Whip Jazz Lewis, a Prince Georges County Democrat, said he isnt concerned about Moores slipping favorability numbers as Maryland heads toward the 2026 gubernatorial election.

I think a lot of people are scared and concerned because of whats coming out of Washington, and Marylands proximity affects us more than other states, said Lewis. I think the governor is trying to do the best he can in responding to the chaos and [stabilizing] the ship, and I think voters see that.

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With regard to Hogans higher favorability during Trumps first term, Lewis said Republican advisors and courts helped to contain this chaotic agenda back then. He said there were no mass layoffs of federal employees or economic instability caused by tariffs in 2017.

Much of that has been purged. By comparison, Hogan didnt have this experience at all, Lewis said, contrasting the two Trump terms. He added that Moore is trying to grow our economy outside of the federal government.

Dedie credited the Moore administrations strategy of blaming Trump for the impact of federal workforce cuts on Maryland, but warned voters could lose patience with this approach by November 2026.

I think theyve done a good job of making the case that the things that have happened, at this moment, are out of their control, Dedie said. But by Election Day next year, they want the problem solved.

______

(Hannah Gaskill contributed to this article.)

______
For wild birds, sex reversal may be more common than ornithologists originally believed. A new study of roughly 500 birds from five species found that up to six percent had the physical features of one biological sex, but the genetic make up of the other. In one instance, a genetically male kookaburra had a distended oviduct. The scientists only possible conclusion? The male bird had recently laid an egg.

This indicates that sex determination in wild birds is more fluid than we thoughtand can persist into adulthood, said Dominique Potvin, a behavioral ecologist, ornithologist, and evolutionary biologist from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Potvin is also a co-author on the study published August 13 in the journal Biology Letters.

Not so straightforward

Sex reversal is well known in fish, amphibians, and reptiles. However, it is rarely documented in wild birds and mammals. In humans, those born with XX chromosomes generally develop as females. Those with XY chromosomes are usually male. However, it is the genes carried on those chromosomes (not the chromosomes themselves) that are the main players at determining biological sex. For example, the SRY gene on the Y chromosome, is what will typically kickstart male development in mammals.

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How these genes are expressed cell-by-cell also matters. The individual cells in chickens, zebrafish, and fruit flies all have their own sexual identity. This identity is based on the genes the cells contain or express, instead of being influenced by overall hormone levels. If different cells have different sets of chromosomes, this can result in animals considered gynandromorphs, which show both male and female characteristics.

In humans, the term intersex describes a body that falls outside of the strict male-female binary. Generally, it is someone born with biological sex characteristics that are not typically male or female, or who develop them naturally during puberty. A person who is intersex is born with sex chromosomes, external genitalia, or an internal reproductive system that is not considered typical for a female or a male. The Intersex Society of America estimates that 1 in 1500 to 1 in 2000 births are considered intersex, but it is a difficult statistic to calculate.

[ Related: Rare bird with half male and half female plumage photographed in Colombia. ]

DNA doesnt always tell a complete story

The study looked at five species: the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen), laughing kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), crested pigeon (Ocyphaps lophotes), rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus), and the scaly breasted lorikeet (Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus). The birds had previously been treated for injury or illnesses at wildlife hospitals in southeast Queensland and were all examined after they had died. The team identified their reproductive organs and then tested their DNA to determine their genetic sex.

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The sex-reversed birds were all classified in three ways: genetic males that have a complete feminine phenotype (i.e. all an organisms observable characteristics), genetic females with a complete masculine phenotype, and birds showing a combination of both testicular and ovarian characteristics.

One of the key findings was that 92% of sex-reversed birds were genetically female but had male reproductive organs, said Potvin. We also discovered a genetically male kookaburra who was reproductively active with large follicles and a distended oviduct, indicating recent egg productionour male, egg-laying bird friend.

A rainbow lorikeet eating from a tree along the Sydney Harbour. CREDIT: Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images) SAEED KHAN

Additionally, two genetically female crested pigeons had both testicular and ovarian reproductive structures.

The presence of sex-reversed individuals in a population could affect a birds reproductive success. One bad mating season can spell serious trouble for threatened species, such as Antarcticas Emperor penguins.

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This can lead to skewed sex ratios, reduced population sizes, altered mate preferences, and even population decline, study co-author and biologist and ornithologist Clancy Hall added.

Sexually ambiguous birds also challenge the traditional methods of identifying bird sex. These include genetic markers, plumage (such as male peacocks having more elaborate plumage to attract a mate), or behavior.

The ability to unequivocally identify the sex and reproductive status of individuals is crucial across many fields of study, said Hall. Weve now established that DNA evidence does not always reflect the suspected sex. Bird researchers often take small DNA samples from blood or feathers and make decisions based on the results showing male or female, but this actually could be wrong up to 6% of the time.

Crested pigeons are native to Australia. CREDIT: Arterra/Universal Images Group via Getty Images. Philippe Clement

Searching for clues

According to the team, the causes of sex reversal in these birds is unclear. More studies are needed to better understand environmental triggers. These types of factors are not unheard of in nature. Temperature can affect the sex of turtle hatchlings buried in the sand, with cooler incubation temperatures creating more male hatchlings and warmer temperatures generating more females.

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For birds, it is possible that high stress hormones or endocrine-disrupting chemicals in their environment may be influencing sex development in birds. Earlier studies have found endocrine-distrupting chemicals in insects that develop near sewage treatment plants that are eaten by birds. Another study found that male European starlings exposed to these chemicals develop longer and more complex songs, but have damaged immune systems.

The reproductively active, genetically male kookaburra in the study was found in a zone between an urban and more rural area, where endocrine-disrupting chemicals may accumulate.

Despite the unknown cause of sex reversal in birds, the study provides a baseline for understanding the phenomenon in Australias many birds. More accurate data on the numbers of male birds versus female birds and the role sex reversal plays in the population should also aid conservation research for the most at-risk species.

Understanding how and why sex reversal occurs is vital for conservation and for improving the accuracy of bird research, Potvin said.
You should not need a permit to grow your own marijuana

There are two bills legalizing recreational cannabis making their way through the Pennsylvania Legislature, HB 20 and SB 120. While most of the debate has been over which authorority will control the growth and sale of the cannabis, overlooked is the issue of the right to grow cannabis for personal use.

Both bills require a permit and an annual restrictive fee to grow two cannabis plants. By contrast, you can make up to 200 gallons of wine or beer for you personal use without a permit in Pennsylvania. Not only is requiring a permit an affront on personal freedom, the fee can be a burden on low-income residents.

This undated file photo depicts mature marijuana plants that members of the Pennsylvania State Police Vice Unit found growing in a cornfield in the Erie region. A letter writer says if lawmakers legalize marijuana for recreational use, they should not require a permit to grow marijuana for personal use.

There are currently 23 states and the District of Columbia that allow personal growth marijuana without a permit or fee including the neighboring states of Ohio, New York and Maryland. There are currently no states requiring a permit to grow your own. I have no indication on why the Pennsylvania lawmakers choose to add so many restrictions on growing your own cannabis, after all it just a weed.

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Lou Hancherick, PA Democratic State Committee, Butler County

Methane leaks, flares harm Pa. birds

As president of the Presque Isle Audubon Society and vice president of the Pennsylvania Audubon Council, I want to commend the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for advancing rules to cut methane pollution from oil and gas operations in Pennsylvania. These safeguards are urgently needed  not just for human health and climate stability, but for the survival of birds across our region.

Climate change, fueled by methane emissions, is the greatest threat to bird populations today. It's already disrupting migration patterns, breeding seasons and habitat availability. A recent scientific review found that up to 7% of bird species globally could face extinction due to climate impacts, depending on future warming scenarios.

Methane flares pose an immediate hazard to birds as well. The heat and light can attract birds at night, often with fatal consequences  burn injuries, lung damage and collisions are all too common. That's why we are urging DEP to ban routine methane venting and flaring. DEP should also require faster repairs of leaks from natural gas wells once they're detected.

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With federal protections in flux, Pennsylvania must adopt the strongest possible methane rules to protect wildlife and ensure a livable climate for all.

Susan Murawski, president, Presque Isle Audubon Society, vice president, Pennsylvania Audubon Council

What are we giving up to fund tax cuts for billionaires?

Medicaid provides essential services in schools, from nurses to mental health support to physical, occupational and speech therapy.

SNAP eligibility is tied to free school meals; cutting it means more hungry kids. Hungry kids don't learn.

Censorship laws and book bans hurt all students by silencing important and accurate histories and identities.

Vouchers divert much-needed public funds from public schools to private, unaccountable programs. Public money is only for public schools.

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Every child deserves access to a high-quality, inclusive education  no matter their ZIP code, race, language or ability.

Cuts to these programs for children and families are being made to give tax breaks to billionaires and to pay for separating families, human rights abuses and terrifying hardworking immigrants  people essential to our care workforce, our economy and our future.

Our nation needs a safe and orderly immigration process that balances compassion and security, not cuts to health care and schools, and not cruelty.

Barbara Laxon, Bradford

Erie parking policies confuse visitor

On a recent visit within the city of Erie, I received a parking ticket although there were no signs where I parked. I called the city of Erie Parking Authority and was told there were signs down the block which I did not see. I even took pictures to show this. When I questioned the representative, I was told to drive around the block and read the signs along the length of the block before parking. I asked if this was a new law and was told it was not.

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This was new to me and probably you so I thought I would share it.

Mike Sparks, Millcreek

We owe Emmett Till and the Capitol Police justice

August 28th will mark 70 years since Emmett Till, a Black youth from Chicago was kidnapped in Money, Mississippi, beaten until unrecognizable, shot through the head, and dumped in the Tallahatchie River with a weight tied to his neck with barbed wire. Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam were charged with murder, were tried in the court of a white judge before an all-male, all-white jury, and were found innocent. Months later they were paid $3,000 for an interview with Look Magazine in which they admitted to kidnapping Till.

On January 6th, 2021, President Trump spoke to his followers and urged them to walk down to the U.S. Capitol and to "fight like hell." An attack on the Capitol followed and resulted in injuries to 174 Capitol Police officers. Five officers later died. The total cost to the taxpayer including upgrades to security was estimated to be $2.7 billion. The Supreme Court ruled that President Trump had special immunity. Trump won reelection in the 2024 presidential race. In office again, Trump pardoned about 1,500 persons convicted of attacking the Capitol.

Rioters at the U.S. Capitol fight to break through a police barrier on Jan. 6, 2021. Here, a letter writer decries the Trump pardons that thwarted justice for the police officers assaulted by rioters that day.

In my opinion, neither Emmett Till nor the Capitol Police have had the justice they deserve. Never forget.

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Karl E. Ebert, Cranesville

A Navy yard in Erie?

William A. Lewis, a North East native and officer in the U.S. Navy, shared his idea to transform the former Erie Coke Corp. site into a shipbuilding facility for the U.S. Navy in an op-ed published in the Erie Times-News on Sunday, Aug. 9. He wrote that the "160-acre industrial parcel checks the box for every major logistical need." It features access to Lake Erie, rail service and interstate highways, and proximity to western Pennsylvania universities with strong engineering programs.

Lewis has been working for three years with stakeholders to develop the vision, which he has named Gem City Shipbuilding. Establishing a shipyard would restore Erie's maritime heritage and deliver a massive economic ripple effect throughout the region, he said.

There was great reader interest in his column. We invite you to share your perspectives on the idea and the future of the Erie Coke site for possible publication via letters@timesnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Readers weigh in on personal pot, methane, Erie parking | Letters
For decades, the U.S. military has flirted with bullpup rifles  compact, futuristic-looking designs that put the action and magazine behind the trigger instead of in front of it. From the Austrian Steyr AUG to the Israeli Tavor, the sci-fi-looking FN F2000, and most recently the RM277 from the Armys Next Generation Squad Weapon program, the Pentagon has tested them all.

And every time, the verdict has been the same: No thanks.

So why does the military keep rejecting a rifle style thats seen service from Australia to Israel?

What is a bullpup rifle?

In a bullpup, the working parts, the chamber, bolt, and magazine, are located in the buttstock, behind the trigger group. This means you can run a full-length barrel in a much shorter overall package.

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For example, the M4 carbine is just under 30 inches long with a 14.5-inch barrel. The Israeli Tavor X95 is 26 inches with a 16.5-inch barrel. The French FAMAS is roughly the same size as the M4, but has a 19.2-inch barrel.

That extra barrel length matters. Longer barrels usually mean higher muzzle velocity, better energy retention, and more reliable terminal effects from rounds like 5.56mm or 6.8mm. And in tight spaces like vehicles, helicopters, and urban combat, shaving a few inches off the guns overall length makes a real difference.

The advantages of a bullpup

On paper, bullpups tick a lot of boxes for modern combat.

Compactness without losing barrel length: Ideal for close quarters and vehicle crews.

Better weight distribution: With the bulk of the rifle close to the shoulder, they can feel lighter and easier to hold at the ready.

Suppressed use: Starting with a shorter rifle means a suppressor wont make it unwieldy.

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So if they look good on a spec sheet, why wont the U.S. use them?

An Army paratrooper crosstrains on the FN F2000 assault rifle in Bac, Slovenia, on Jan. 26, 2017. Defense Department photo by Massimo Bovo.

The dealbreakers

The first problem is ergonomics. Bullpups require a different manual of arms. The magazine sits behind the pistol grip, often under the shooters armpit or mixed up in body armor. Speed reloads and malfunction drills are harder, especially for troops whove spent years training on the M4/M16 family.

Next is trigger feel. With the trigger up front and the firing mechanism in the rear, bullpups rely on a long mechanical linkage to connect the two. That linkage adds friction and flex, resulting in heavier, spongier pulls that arent ideal for precision shooting.

Left-handed shooting is another hurdle. Many bullpups eject to the right by default, which means lefties risk brass in the face unless the rifle is reconfigured, something you cant do mid-fight.

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Then theres modularity. The M4 has plenty of rail space for optics, lasers, lights, and grips. Bullpups have a shorter fore-end, which means less real estate for accessories without crowding the muzzle or ejection port.

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Finally, logistics and doctrine. Adopting bullpups would mean rewriting training manuals, changing qualification standards, redesigning load carriage systems, and retraining hundreds of thousands of troops across every service branch. Unless a bullpup offers overwhelming advantages, that level of disruption just isnt likely to be seen as being worth it.

The U.S. has tried

In 1985, the Pentagon put the Steyr AUG through its paces. What they found were all of the above shortcomings and decided not to purchase them, but that didnt stop U.S. Customs and Border Protection from adopting the rifle from 1988 to 2007 before replacing them with AR-style rifles.

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The Belgian FN F2000, tested by U.S. special operations, offered fully ambidextrous, forward-ejecting operation in a compact package. But its spongy trigger, bulky profile, and incompatibility with existing accessories killed its chances.

Most recently, the General Dynamics RM277 was proposed as part of the Armys Next Generation Squad Weapon program. It is a suppressed, polymer-cased 6.8mm bullpup that, despite impressive ballistics, lost to SIG Sauers then-XM7, an AR-style rifle that felt more familiar to soldiers and fit better into existing logistics.

Other countries made it work sort of

Israel fields the Tavor for infantry and urban ops, but many troops still carry M4s depending on the mission. The country is currently looking to replace the Tavor with a home-built AR-style weapon. France ditched the FAMAS for the HK416. The UK stuck with the SA80 but spent decades and millions fixing its flaws. Theyre also currently looking for a replacement, and none of the candidates are bullpups. Austria and Australia have stuck with the Steyr AUG, but they operate on a smaller scale and with different mission profiles than the U.S.

A French service member shows a U.S. soldier how to use the Famas. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Victoria Eckert.

The bottom line

Bullpups arent bad rifles. In some environments, theyre excellent. But they dont offer enough benefit to make the U.S. military scrap its entire small arms ecosystem.

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Theyre harder to reload, have less modularity, and often deliver a worse trigger feel. And in a force this large, familiarity and interoperability matter as much as performance.

For now, the Armys next standard rifle, the M7, sticks with the AR-style layout. Bullpups will keep showing up in gun shop display cases and in the hands of foreign forces, but for the U.S. military writ large, they remain too weird to issue. We dive into this in more depth in this weeks YouTube video, which you can check out here.
The GHMC Commissioner, RV Karnan, issued a notice under Section 533(b) of the GHMC Act, 1955, requesting the police commissioners of Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Rachakonda to ensure cooperation in enforcing the order.

In the issued notice, the GHMC Commissioner wrote, "Slaughterhouses and retail Beef Shops on 15-08-2025 & 16-08-2025 on account of Independence Day & Janmastami Serving Notice U/s. 533 (b) of the GHMC Act, 1955-Regarding.

(Issued under Section 533 (b) of GHMC Act, 1955)"

The notice further read, "All the Cattle slaughterhouses of GHMC and the retail Beef shops within the limits of GHMC shall remain closed on 15-08-2025 & 16-08-2025 on account of "Independence Day & Janrnastami" respectively.

In this regard, the officers in the address entry are requested to instruct all the concerned officers to extend necessary co-operation to the Municipal staff in carrying out the orders."

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has slammed Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for ordering the closure of meat shops and slaughterhouses on Independence Day.

Questioning the logic behind the meat ban and celebrating Independence Day, he said the order violates people's right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition, and religion.

"Many municipal corporations across India have ordered the closure of slaughterhouses and meat shops on 15th August. Unfortunately, @GHMCOnline has also made a similar order," Owaisi said in a post on X.

"This is callous and unconstitutional. What's the connection between eating meat and celebrating independence day? 99% of Telangana's people eat meat. These meat bans violate people's right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition & religion," he said. (ANI)
In this handout provided by Hennepin County Sheriff's Office, Vance Luther Boelter poses for a booking photo on June 16, 2025 in Green Isle, Minnesota.

This piece of garbage from Blaze News, which is part of right-winger Glenn Becks Blaze Media, is an illustration of the moral rot of much of the American information landscape.

It promises an exclusive interview with Vance Boelter, the alleged shooter of the Sen. John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman and killer of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.

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The publication lends its credibility  yes, a joke to Reformer readers, but an actual thing to Blazes millions of readers  to Boelters preposterous story, almost entirely unchallenged.

Boelter claims he was at the Hoffmans to make a citizens arrest  right-wingers love this kind of cosplay  that was somehow related to an investigation Boelter had been conducting on the COVID-19 vaccines, while working at funeral homes. Theres some more argle-bargle details, but the long and short of it is he admits to shooting the Hoffmans.

Blaze treats this like an entirely normal claim, that someone without any experience or expertise would use his job at mortuaries to conduct an investigation into a widely used vaccine that saved millions of lives.

The publication doesnt challenge any of it, except when one of the mortuaries where Boelter worked says, The assertion in question is wholly unfounded, as no such investigation ever occurred.

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Notably, a postscript says the quote from Wulff Funeral Home came after publication, probably when the mortuary sent a WTH?! email and someone at Blaze was savvy enough to see the risk of a defamation lawsuit and added the quote.

When asked about the Hortman killings, Boelter suddenly clams up and claims he cant talk because of the ongoing criminal case. (Blaze fails to point out that this makes no sense  why can he talk openly about one criminal case but not the other?)

Then they let him play to the foolish mythologies of their readership with fictional claims about the COVID vaccines: I also think about the hundreds of other Minnesota citizens that have died in the last several years that have not been talked about but should have.

They just let it hang there, giving legitimacy to the nonsense.

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Blaze also fails to mention the lengthy list of targets  Democratic officials and abortion providers  that investigators say was in Boelters car. The word abortion never appears in the piece.

Either Boelter is mentally incompetent or perhaps he is propagating propaganda that will justify and even valorize his evil acts in hopes of persuading one right-wing juror to vote for acquittal. (Or persuading a morally bankrupt president for a pardon.)

If its the former and hes suffering a psychotic break from reality, quoting him is unethical: You dont quote someone who is mentally unfit and detached from reality.

If its the latter, youre participating in his evil charade.

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Of course, theres another possibility: The reporter and editors of Blaze believe Boelters claims, that the vaccine is deadly and he was heroically investigating it.

Which would help us understand the state of right-wing media: So high on their own supply that theyre eagerly willing to give a platform to an accused killer.

You might be thinking, come on, its Blaze. We know what theyre all about. But setting aside their considerable influence  BlazeTV had 450,000 subscribers paying on average $102 a year, Axios reported in 2020  theres a lesson here for mainstream media chasing an interview with Boelter or reporting on his now voluminous public comments.

Even assuming hes mentally competent, theres nothing he can say thats worth printing, unless and until hes willing to explain who radicalized him  and, thus, who should share in the responsibility for his alleged crimes.
The wife of South Korea's jailed former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has been arrested over a raft of charges, including stock manipulation and bribery.

Former first lady Kim Keon Hee denied all charges during a four-hour court hearing in Seoul on Tuesday. But the court issued a detention warrant, citing the risk that she may destroy evidence.

South Korea has a history of former presidents being indicted and imprisoned. However, this is the first time both the former president and former first lady have been jailed.

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Yoon was detained in January to face trial over a failed martial law bid last year that plunged the country into chaos and eventually led to his ouster.

Prosecutors say Kim, 52, made over 800 million won ($577,940; 428,000) by participating in a price-rigging scheme involving the stocks of Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealer in South Korea.

While this allegedly happened before her husband was elected the country's leader, it continued to cast a shadow throughout his presidency.

She allegedly also accepted two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace as bribes from the controversial Unification Church in exchange for business favours.

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Among other charges, Kim is also accused of meddling in candidate nominations during the parliamentary by-elections in 2022 and the general elections last year.

Kim appeared solemn as she attended Tuesday's hearing wearing a black suit and a black skirt.

"I sincerely apologise for causing trouble despite being a person of no importance," she told reporters.

While he was president, Yoon vetoed three opposition-led bills that sought a special counsel investigation into allegations against Kim.

He issued the last veto in November, a week before he declared martial law.

A special counsel was set up in June this year after Yoon's rival Lee Jae Myung became president.
SEOUL, Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Kim Keon Hee, the wife of ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, was arrested on a range of charges late Tuesday night, including stock price manipulation, accepting luxury goods in exchange for political favors and meddling in election nominations.

The Seoul Central District Court issued an arrest warrant for Kim after a hearing on Tuesday, special prosecutor Min Joong-ki's office said in a brief statement.

In granting the warrant, the court cited the risk of Kim destroying evidence, news agency Yonhap reported.

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Kim's arrest marks the first time in South Korean history that a former president and his wife have been jailed.

Yoon, who was removed from office in April, is being held at the Seoul Detention Center on separate allegations related to his botched Dec. 3 declaration of martial law.

Among the charges he faces is insurrection, which is punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Prosecutors allege that Kim made around $580,000 in a price-rigging scheme involving the stocks of Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealer in South Korea, between 2009 and 2012.

She is also accused of receiving Chanel handbags and a diamond necklace from the Unification Church via a shaman as a bribe for business favors.

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A third charge claims the former presidential couple influenced candidate nominations for Yoon's People Power Party in local and parliamentary elections.

After questioning by the special counsel last week, Kim told reporters that she was sorry for "causing concern to the people," calling herself a "nobody." She has reportedly denied all allegations against her.

Kim is being held at the Nambu Detention Center in southwestern Seoul, separate from her husband.

She is expected to appear at special counsel Min Joong-ki's office on Thursday for questioning, according to local reports.
At least three people have died in a scorching heatwave that is fuelling dozens of wildfires across parts of southern Europe, forcing thousands of people from their homes.

Red heat alerts have been issued in parts of Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and the Balkans, warning of significant risks to health as temperatures push above 40C (104F).

Spain's weather service Aemet said temperatures could reach 44C (111.2F) in Seville and Cordoba, while southern Portugal could also hit 44C.

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In Spain, an equestrian centre employee died after suffering severe burns in Tres Cantos, near Madrid, where winds over 70km/h (43mph) drove flames near homes, forcing hundreds to flee.

A major blaze in Turkey forced hundreds from their homes [Reuters]

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Tuesday that rescue services "are working tirelessly to extinguish the fires".

"We are at extreme risk of forest fires. Please be very cautious," he added in a post on X.

In Spain's north-western region of Castile and Leon, almost 4,000 people were evacuated and more than 30 blazes were reported - with one threatening the Unesco-listed Las Medulas, renowned for its ancient gold mines.

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Another 2,000 people were evacuated from hotels and homes near the tourist hotspot of Tarifa in the southern region of Andalusia.

Almost 1,000 soldiers were deployed to battle wildfires around the country, Spain's national military emergency unit said on Tuesday morning.

In neighbouring Portugal, firefighters battled three large wildfires, with the most serious near Trancoso contained in the centre of the country on Tuesday.

Wildfires in Albania forced people to evacuate their homes on Monday [Reuters]

More than 1,300 firefighters and 14 aircraft were deployed, with Morocco sending two planes after Portuguese water bombers broke down, Reuters reported. Authorities warned southern regions could hit 44C, with the temperature not expected to dip below 25C.

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One child died of heatstroke in Italy on Monday, where temperatures of 40C are expected to hit later this week. Red heat alerts were in place for at least 10 Italian cities, including Rome, Milan and Florence.

A four-year-old Romanian boy, who was found unconscious in a car in Sardinia was airlifted to a hospital in Rome but died due to irreversible brain damage, reportedly caused by heatstroke, medical authorities told AFP.

Almost three-quarters of France is under heat alerts, with temperatures forecast to top 36C in the Paris region and 40C in the Rhone Valley.

French Health Minister Catherine Vautrin said hospitals were braced for fallout from the country's second heatwave in just a few weeks.

Wildfires in Montenegro destroy property near the capital Podgorica [Reuters]

Greece is battling more than 150 wildfires across the country, exacerbated by fierce winds, with nearly 5,000 firefighters and dozens of aircraft tackling the blazes.

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Mass evacuations are under way on touristic island Zakynthos and in western Achaia, where blazes have destroyed homes, vehicles and businesses.

Grigoris Alexopoulos, the mayor of western Achaia, said the fires in the region were "out of control", adding some coastal areas have been "irreparably damaged".

Rescue boats have been evacuating beachgoers trapped by advancing flames on Chios and authorities have requested several EU firefighting aircraft.

Greek authorities are warning the conditions could become even more challenging in the coming days.

Dozens of people have been evacuated from the Greek island of Chios [Reuters]

Turkey has brought several major fires under control, including in Canakkale and Izmir, after hundreds were evacuated and the Dardanelles Strait and Canakkale airport were closed.

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In Montenegro, a soldier died and another was injured when their water tanker overturned while fighting fires near the capital Podgorica.

Wildfires in Albania forced people to evacuate their homes on Monday, while in Croatia a large fire raged in Split and was contained on Tuesday.

Parts of the UK are sweltering in its fourth heatwave of the year, with temperatures hitting 33C and amber and yellow heat health alerts in place for all of England.

Two grassfires broke out in the capital on Tuesday, one in Ealing and another in Wanstead Flats, burning more than 17 acres combined.

Scientists warn global warming is making Mediterranean summers hotter and drier, fuelling longer and more intense fire seasons.

Additional reporting by Nikos Papanikolaou.
PATRAS, Greece (Reuters) -Firefighters battled multiple wildfires across Greece on Wednesday, including blazes threatening villages and towns near the western city of Patras and on two tourist islands.

Fires have burned houses, farms and factories and prompted the evacuation of thousands of residents and tourists since Tuesday.

Dozens of people have been taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation since Tuesday, public broadcaster ERT reported. Some 13 firefighters have been treated for burns and other injuries, fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis told a televised briefing on Wednesday.

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Nearly 5,000 firefighters assisted by 33 aircraft were deployed from dawn to contain the flames stoked by winds and hot, dry conditions near Patras, on the tourist islands of Chios and Zakynthos and in at least three inland spots.

"Today, it will be another very difficult day, as the wildfire risk for most of the country's regions will be very high," Vathrakogiannis said. Temperatures were forecast to reach 34 degrees Celsius (93.2 Fahrenheit) in some places.

Flames and dark smoke billowed over a cement factory that was set alight by a wildfire that swept through olive groves and forests and disrupted rail traffic near Patras on Wednesday.

"What it looks like? It looks like doomsday. We came from Athens with our volunteer association Kleisthenis, we cant do anything more. May God help us and help people here, said volunteer firefighter Giorgos Karavanis, who was working on the fire near Patras.

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Authorities ordered residents of a town of about 7,700 people near Patras to evacuate on Tuesday and issued new alerts on Wednesday, advising residents of two nearby villages to leave their homes.

On the island of Chios, the coast guard used boats to take people to safety on Tuesday as flames reached the shores.

Spain, Portugal, Turkey and the Balkans have also battled wildfires in recent days as a heatwave pushed temperatures over 40 C (104 F) across parts of Europe. In Albania and Montenegro, wildfires have destroyed houses and possessions since last week.

(Reporting by Louiza Vradi in Patras and Angeliki Koutantou in AthensAdditional reporting by Aleksandar Vasovic in BelgradeEditing by Frances Kerry)
Aug. 12---- Members of Indivisible Kandiyohi County stood outside the Kandiyohi County Jail in Willmar as a show of support Tuesday for a Minnesota wife and mother who has been behind bars since her arrest by federal agents more than two weeks ago. She is expected to be released Wednesday after a judge ruled in her favor.

Antonia Aguilar Maldonado, 25, of Lake Elmo, was arrested July 17 by Homeland Security Investigations, a division of the Department of Homeland Security, as she was on her way to work as a self-employed painter, according to

Aguilar Maldonado has no criminal history and an active asylum case in the immigration court system, her attorneys told MPR.

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According to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Online

she remained in custody of the Kandiyohi County Jail on Tuesday.

The show of support outside the jail was timed to coincide with a federal court hearing Tuesday afternoon on Aguilar Maldonado's request for a temporary restraining order.

Judge Susan Richard Nelson granted the temporary relief and motion to invoke a previous order for release on $10,000 bond, according to Gloria Contreras Edin, one of Aguilar Maldonado's attorneys.

Contreras Edin told the West Central Tribune in a phone call Tuesday evening that the ruling would allow for the release of Aguilar Maldonado on Wednesday once she posts bond.

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Contreras Edin said she was happy with the judge's finding and stated that Aguilar Maldonado is "grateful for all the thoughts, prayers and support she has received."

She further added that she was absolutely certain Aguilar Maldonado wants nothing more than to be reunited with her two children.

Aguilar Maldonado immigrated to the U.S. without legal status as an unaccompanied 17-year-old minor from El Salvador in 2016, according to MPR.

Attorneys Hannah Brown and Contreras Edin told MPR that federal agents cited an old removal order to justify her recent arrest.

That order was previously reopened and canceled by an immigration judge after it was determined she never received proper notice of a hearing as a teenager, MPR reported. Her attorneys said she has been following the law, attending court hearings, and has filed for asylum.

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As previously reported by MPR, an immigration judge found on July 31 that Aguilar Maldonado qualified for release on $10,000 bond, but ICE filed for an automatic stay to keep her in detention.

As her attorneys argued Tuesday for her release from ICE custody, members of

conducted a vigil at the center pavilion outside the Kandiyohi County Law Enforcement Center  where the jail is located  as a show of support for Aguilar Maldonado and her family.

As organizer Kathy Hartley put it to the crowd, the event was not meant to be a protest or "a personal attack" directed at the Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office, but rather a "policy disagreement."

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The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office oversees the jail and has an agreement to house ICE detainees, one that has been in place for 24 years. The Kandiyohi County Jail is one of three county jails in Minnesota with such a contract.

Kandiyohi County Sheriff Eric Tollefson has previously told the West Central Tribune that

does not affect any officer's duties while on patrol.

"We don't know anybody's immigration status unless they voluntarily tell us, but we're not allowed to ask, nor do we ask  it's not our concern," he said.

Still, for approximately 100 people outside the jail, it was hard not to take cases like Aguilar Maldonado's personally. Many in attendance expressed frustration that, despite their clear presence, Sheriff Tollefson did not come outside to address any questions or concerns.

It is not known if Tollefson was inside the building on Tuesday. Organizers said they had not contacted him as the event was quickly organized within a handful of hours.
The "unexceptional" Wisconsin woman convicted this week of traveling overseas to murder a man on behalf of her lover delivered chilling messages to the man's dad, whom authorities believe was also a target.

Aimee Betro, 44, attempted to assassinate Sikander Ali at point-blank range outside his home in Birmingham, England in August 2019, but failed when her gun jammed. She later returned to the scene and fired at the Ali home several times, causing extensive damage before fleeing the scene in a taxi.

While in the taxi, Betro opened her burner phone and fired off a series of threatening texts to Ali's father, who lived in the same home on a cul-de-sac.

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Stop playing hide n seek. Youre lucky it jammed," Betro wrote in one message, according to West Midlands Police. "Who is it? Your family or you? Pick one.

West Midlands Police

Betro, an otherwise unassuming woman from West Allis, Wis., without a significant criminal footprint, traveled to the U.K. posing as a tourist before heading north to meet with Mohammed Nazir, her lover whom she met on a dating app.

Nazir had recruited Betro to assassinate Ali's father  or a member of his family  as revenge after a fight at the father's clothing store the year prior left him and his dad, Mohammed Aslam, injured, and their families feuding, per West Midlands Police.

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West midlands Police

After meeting up with Nazir, Betro purchased a burner phone and a Mercedes as a getaway car, using the alias Becky Booth, per the Crown Prosecution Service.

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Late on Sept. 7, she drove the Mercedes to the cul-de-sac and lay in wait for about 45 minutes before Ali showed up in his own vehicle. She could be seen on CCTV getting out of the vehicle, gun in hand, and attempting to fire at Ali from point-blank range, but the weapon jammed, allowing Ali to get back into his car and escape.

Ali smashed into the Mercedes' door as he fled, leaving a dent that allowed investigators to match the vehicle with one Betro was seen driving earlier, per the CPS.

After the second shooting at the Ali residence, which damaged the home, Betro fled the country  but her DNA was found on a glove recovered from the Mercedes.

Nazir and Aslam were each convicted on conspiracy to murder charges last year, receiving sentences of 32 years and 10 years respectively.

West midlands Police

Betro, meanwhile, was hiding out in Armenia as a fugitive from the law for five years, until she was tracked down by a Daily Mail reporter who tipped off police to her whereabouts. She was extradited back to the U.K. soon after.

Betro is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 21.



Read the original article on People
The Brief

Many homeowners are asking whether insurance will cover the damage of historic floods.

FEMA is monitoring the situation but has not received requests to help Wisconsin.

In 2008, 24,000 Wisconsinites received an average of less than $4,000 in FEMA assistance.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - With historic flooding devastating southeastern Wisconsin, homeowners are asking whether insurance will cover the damage. Likewise, will the Federal Emergency Management Agency also help?

What we know

Across the region, powerful weekend storms dumped inches of rain, leaving homes and property severely damaged. In West Allis, residents are filling dumpster after dumpster with belongings destroyed in the flood.

Cindy Mauch, a Muskego homeowner of 12 years, said floodwaters surrounded her house "like an island," eventually caving in her basement foundation wall. She received a rough estimate of $50,000 to repair it.

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"Trying to read my policy is like, I need an attorney that understands what it all tells me," Mauch said. "I have 83 pages on my policy, so I don't know what that's telling me."

Dig deeper

Attorney Justin Wallace, who spent years working for insurance companies before representing clients against them, said his first recommendation is to file a claim immediately.

"You will never get paid unless you make a claim," Wallace said, noting Wisconsin generally has a one-year statute of limitations on filing lawsuits against insurers for this type of damage.

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"There are insurance companies out there that will string you along until day 366," added Wallace.

Whether one will have this flooding covered depends on how the water entered the property. For example, if it was a sewer and drain backup, that could be covered with a sewer backup addition. Likewise, flooding could be covered by separate flood insurance.

"It's not like they're being necessarily jerks, this is just one of the things that generally isn't covered; water damage isn't covered," Wallace said. "While water damage itself is often not covered. There's a concept in the insurance policy of what's called an ensuing loss, which means that, say the water caused an explosion, for example, of something on your property. Even though the insurance probably doesn't cover the water damage itself, it may cover an ensuing loss that was caused by the water damage."

By the numbers

Federal data shows that in 2023, only 8,436 single-family homes in Wisconsin had coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program, with most paying less than $1,000 annually.

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As for federal assistance, FEMA said Tuesday it is not currently on the ground in Wisconsin but is "closely monitoring" the situation. An agency spokesperson said it has not yet received requests for federal help.

In 2008, President George W. Bush declared a flooding disaster in Wisconsin. According to state records, 24,000 residents received FEMA assistance then, with the average payout totaling less than $4,000.

What's next

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

"I really encourage everybody: make a claim, and let the insurance company tell you, if they're not going to pay you, why," Wallace said.

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Mauchs claims adjuster is expected to inspect her property on Wednesday.

"I feel like I'm still living in this little nightmare, and I need to wake up," Mauch said.

The Source

The information in this post was collected and produced by FOX6 News.
(The Center Square)  Two lawsuits have been filed by The Badger Project looking for records of law enforcement officers who were fired or forced to resign.

Both officers have worked for other departments in the state after their separation from the previous department. Wisconsin Transparency Project represents The Badger Project in both cases.

The Badger Project is a nonpartisan journalism nonprofit that says its focus is on investigating government, politics and related matters.

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The Badger Project requested records regarding an officer who resigned from the St. Croix Sheriffs Office and one who was said to have been terminated for cause by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

There is a disturbing trend of law enforcement agencies issuing blanket denials for internal investigation records, Tom Kamenick, President and Founder of the Wisconsin Transparency Project, said in a statement. Court after court has said that only minimal amounts of information in these records can be redacted, but law enforcement agencies routinely ignore those cases.

The Badger Project said that Amanda Alberts resigned from the St. Croix Sheriffs Office in 2021 and has since worked for the Roberts and Wrightstown Police departments.

St. Croix released the separation agreement but denied the release of any records related to the separation. Alberts elected to release all claims against St. Croix in exchange for 8 months pay and other compensation, according to the separation agreement.

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The second request was related to officer Keegan Williams, who was a State Patrol Officer that the Department of Justice put on a flagged officer list and Badger Project says was terminated for cause by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

In its denial, the Department of Transportation said that it needed to restrict public access to current disciplinary and employment review proceeding.

Williams hasnt worked for the department in two years and now works for the Delavan Police Department. The Department of Transportation has since agreed to release Williams records after the statutorily required notice period allowing Williams to object.

Studies have found that wandering officers are more likely to commit misconduct again compared to rookies and veteran officers with clean records, Peter Cameron, Managing Editor of The Badger Project, said in a statement. Everyone deserves a second chance, but communities are best served when they know who is policing them. The Badger Projects work in this area aims to give them that transparency.
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP)  FOX8 is continuing to ask questions about what happened to an 84-year-old man who disappeared from a Greensboro nursing home and later needed to be hospitalized.

Willie Wright disappeared for a short time last week and was later reunited with his family.

Wrights family said he had a fractured jaw, eye socket and brain bleed.

On Tuesday, a woman, who may be able to answer the question of what happened to Wright spoke to FOX8.

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Yasmin Brown agreed to speak out because she wants people to know what she saw happen to Wright at the intersection of Randleman Road and Teague Street.

As I was driving past, I did see a younger gentleman standing over him, so I assumed to myself that he was getting beat up. I wasnt sure, but I saw a police officer driving past, so I flagged him down, Brown said.

Brown described the night of August 5 when she found Wright in the middle of the street and called 911 around 9:49 p.m.

A little less than an hour since Wright disappeared from Greenhaven Health and Rehab, Brown said she saw him left on the median, driving back from work that night. She quickly pulled over.

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Then when I walked up on him, I saw him bleeding, so I just called and did what my gut instinct told me to do, she said.

In that moment, Brown said making that life-saving call felt like her duty.

Nobody stopped but me and the other witness. Some people were stopping to ask what was wrong, but nobody got out to help. So I wasnt paying any attention to me but more him because I was trying to get him out of the street, Brown said.

Brown said she is glad shes the one who saw Wright.

I just know I had a heart by stopping because nobody else would stop for him, but I am glad he is alive. Im glad hes alive because of me, she said.

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Greensboro police said there are no updates to the investigation at this time and said that Mr. Wrights injuries are certainly part of this investigation.

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services officials visited Greenhaven Health and Rehab on Tuesday.

As for Wright, his family said hes still recovering.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday reserved its order on the bail plea of Tahir Hussain, who is an accused in the Ankit Sharma murder case. He has been in custody for the last five years, and the other two accused are on bail. This is the fifth bail application of accused Tahir Hussain. Intelligence Bureau staffer Ankit Sharma was allegedly murdered in February 2020 during the North East Delhi Riots. Hussain is also an accused in the larger Conspiracy of the Delhi riots case of 2020. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna reserved order after hearing submissions by the counsel for the accused Tahir Hussain and the Delhi police. Advocate Rajiv Mohan, alongwith Tara Narula and Shivangi Sharma, appeared for Hussain. It was argued that the accused has been in judicial custody since 2020. Two accused, namely Haseen Mullaji and Sameer Khan, are enlarged on bail. This case is at the stage of Prosecution evidence before the trial court. Investigation officer's examination and cross-examination are pending. It was argued by the counsel for the accused that the Trial Court dismissed the fourth bail application wrongly, observing that there was no change in circumstances since the previous dismissal. There is a material change in circumstances in favour of the accused. Counsel for the accused also submitted that three eyewitnesses have not supported the case of the Prosecution. "The evidence of the complainant has been recorded. He did not identify the Complaint on the basis of which the FIR was lodged. All public eye witnesses have been examined," it said. It was also argued that there is no apprehension of interference with the trial, as there are no allegations of influencing the witnesses. Advocate Rajat Nair opposed the bail application on behalf of the Delhi police. Delhi police said that Tahir Hussain has been identified by eyewitnesses. One eyewitness recorded a 29-second video of the mob dragging the deceased Ankit Sharma from the side of Tahir Hussain's house and throwing him over an iron fence, into the drain. It was also argued that a witness identified Tahir Hussain as a member of the mob armed with dandas, petrol bombs and stones, instigating them. Police said that there is apprehension of the accused fleeing from justice and tampering with evidence. (ANI)
RICHMOND/COLUMBIA COUNTIES, Ga. (WJBF)  On August 13th at 10:25am, Richmond County Sheriffs Office Road Patrol units responded to a report of a stolen motor vehicle at 1350 Walton Way.

A description of the vehicle was immediately broadcast to all deputies through 911 dispatch.

Deputy Dakota Clark observed the stolen vehicle traveling on Wrightsboro Road and requested additional units before attempting a traffic stop. Once he activated his blue lights and siren, the driver refused to stop, leading deputies through Richmond County and into Columbia County along Washington Road.

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The pursuit ended when the suspect pulled into the Raceway at Stevens Creek and Washington Road, where she attempted to flee on foot but was quickly surrounded and taken into custody without incident.

There were no injuries or property damage.

The suspect, identified as Amanda Nelson, was arrested and transported to the Charles B. Webster 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 WJBF.
LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK) The Longview Police Department arrested a man after it was discovered that he allegedly had over 25 grams of cocaine and several other drugs in his home.

AFFIDAVIT: Smith County man arrested after having sexual relationship with teen co-worker

According to officials, the Greg County Organized Drug Enforcement (CODE) partnered with Longview PD on Monday to serve a search warrant at the home of 25-year-old Delany Rossum in the 100th block of Hubbard Drive.

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During the search of Rossums home, officials discovered and seized the following drugs:

29 grams of cocaine

6 grams of methamphetamine

3 grams of amphetamine

2 grams of xanax.

Following the search of his home, Rossum was charged with manufacturing and delivery of a controlled substance and two charges of possession of a controlled substance.

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.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  A woman jailed on a reckless homicide charge in connection with a deadly crash months ago in Myrtle Beach had an unsealed bottle of alcohol in her vehicle and was not wearing a seatbelt, a police report shows.

Leigh Ann Rayno, 52, remains in the J. Reuben Long Detention Center on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records. The report shows the crash happened on May 25 along Kings Highway, just south of 9th Avenue South.

Raynos arrest on Monday stems from the death of Robert Brasington, 83, of Lancaster, South Carolina, the Horry County Coroners Office said. He died on May 27 at Grand Strand Regional Medical Center from blunt force injuries suffered in the crash, which happened days earlier.

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The officer spoke with Rayno, who did not provide a valid drivers license and avoided that she was the owner of the vehicle, according to the report.

Raynos vehicle hit the rear of a vehicle stopped in traffic, and the impact was strong enough to cause the stopped vehicle to [strike] the vehicle in front to sustain major damage, the report reads. The officer found that Raynos seatbelt was not worn and that there was an unsealed but closed bottle of wine/liquor on the center console of her vehicle.

A witness told police that Rayno was in the lane next to him and that Rayno appeared to be dancing with her hands in the air and not paying attention to operating her vehicle, an arrest warrant reads. Weather conditions were wet at the time of the crash, which led officers to believe Rayno was traveling too fast and following too closely to the vehicle in front of her.

The warrant shows four vehicles suffered severe damage and multiple other people were injured.

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Brasington was a passenger in the vehicle Rayno hit, according to the report. Rayno was also transported to Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, where she was placed under arrest once she was medically cleared.

* * *

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.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The Baton Rouge Police Department has identified the woman killed in an early morning shooting on Wednesday.

Officers responded to the 11200 block of Florida Boulevard just before 6 a.m. in connection with the incident.

When they arrived, they found a woman who had been shot. She was taken to a local hospital but later died from her injuries. The woman was identified as Mirtalarellana Ramirez, 55.

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Police confirmed the shooting appeared to be a possible domestic situation.

This is an ongoing investigation. No further details were immediately available.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at 225-389-4869 or Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867.

Charge upgraded for man accused in hit-and-run killing BRPD Sgt. Caleb Eisworth

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56)  A woman is dead after a shooting at a Louisville school bus stop on Wednesday.

At a news conference, Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey said the shooting happened around 8 a.m. near 11th and Chestnut streets, near several bus stops.

Humphrey said a woman was walking a child to the bus stop when she was shot and later taken to UofL Health Hospital, where she died. Authorities said the child wasnt injured.

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A 15-year-old was later detained and interviewed, but authorities determined he was not the person they were looking for, and he was released.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

(Louisville Metro Police Department)

The suspect has been described as a young Black male wearing a red hoodie sweatshirt and black sweatpants.

This shooting happened near another shooting on West Chestnut Street, where someone opened fire near a bus stop on Aug. 7, the first day of school for JCPS. A 15-year-old has been charged in connection with that shooting.

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Humphrey said this was the first day LMPD did not have officers at the school bus stop since the Aug. 7 shooting.

LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS:

According to the Louisville FOX affiliate WDRB, the woman was identified as Redaja Williams, who was also known as Juicy.

Anyone with additional information about what happened is asked to call the tip line at (502) 574-5673.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Woman killed, dismembered, identity stolen: Mother of victim speaks after arrest in cold case murder

The mother of a murder victim spoke for the first time Wednesday, following an arrest made nearly 18 years after the victims body was found dismembered and burned on the side of the road.

The parents of Nicole Alston were emotional during a news conference in Fulton County, Channel 2s Michael Doudna reported. Investigators called the formerly cold case one of the most gruesome they have dealt with.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Law enforcement officials arrested Angel Marie Thompson, and she is being held in the Fulton County Jail.

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Nicole was bubbly, said her mother, Sylvia Alston. She had an infectious smile.

Alstons mother said her daughter was the life of the party, and that she trusted Thompson. They decided to move to Georgia together from New York in 2006.

(She) was trusting, too trusting sometimes, said her friend, Gibran Holmes.

Investigators believe the relationship became abusive and that Thompson killed her, dumped her body in black bags in Troup County and set her on fire in December 2007.

We believe that this victim was trafficked prior to her murder, that this involves classic domestic violence, said Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

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It took years for authorities to identify Alstons remains. Thompsons arrest was made this week after investigator worked so long to collect evidence and find a killer.

The arrest provides a chance that the family will get justice.

Everybody talks about closure, and there aint no such thing as closure, said Troup County Sheriffs Office Investigator Clay Bryant.

Willis said she believes Thompson may have trafficked other women. Anyone with information was asked to contact the Fulton County District Attorneys Office.

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NEED TO KNOW

A woman donated her teenage daughter's pony, Chicago 57, to Aalborg Zoo in Aalborg, Denmark, to be fed to the park's predator animals.

The family donated the pony's body after the animal was euthanized at 22 years old

The horse was suffering from extreme eczema, and the woman says her daughter made the final decision on the animal's fate

A woman donated her daughter's pony to the Aalborg Zoo in Denmark, where it was later fed to the zoo's lions.

Pernille Sohl says she donated her teenage daughter Angelina's German riding pony, Chicago 57, after the animal was euthanized due to pain from a long-term health struggle in 2020.

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"It might sound very dramatic and bizarre that you would feed your pet to animals in the zoo," Sohl told The Times in a recent interview. She shared her story with the outlet after the Aalborg Zoo's policy of accepting donations of unwanted pets to feed the zoo animals went viral in early August.

Sohl clarified, "It is not like they are alive when they are given to the predators."

Chicago 57 was 22 at the time of his death. The pony was suffering from a form of eczema caused by mosquito bites that became extremely irritated in the summer, leading to painful open wounds that risked infection. Towards the end of his life, he had to wear a jacket and leg protection.

Sohl gave her daughter Angelina, who was 13 at the time of Chicago 57's death, the opportunity to decide whether to donate Chicago 57's body.

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"I gave Angelina the various options and she chose the one with the zoo, because it made the most sense," Sohl explained.

Peter Bischoff/Getty Aalborg Zoo in Aalborg, Denmark Aalborg Zoo in Aalborg, Denmark

Sohl added that her daughter chose that option because "she wanted to follow the food chain. She wanted Chicago 57 to benefit other animals."

On July 31, Aalborg Zoo posted on its Facebook page about its existing pet donation policy, which allows locals to donate horses and "small pets" to the zoo to help feed the zoo's predators. The big cats, as the Aalborg Zoo wrote at the time, need prey that "resembles what it would naturally hunt in the wild."

"In zoos, we have a responsibility to imitate the animals' natural food chain  for reasons of both animal welfare and professional integrity," the zoo wrote in its Facebook post, which included a photo of a wild cat. "If you have an animal that needs to leave here for various reasons, you are welcome to donate it to us."

Peter Bischoff/Getty Aalborg Zoo lions in their habitat in Aalborg, Denmark Aalborg Zoo lions in their habitat in Aalborg, Denmark

The zoo added that trained staff members euthanize all donated animals "gently" before using them as "feed" so that "nothing goes to waste" and the "natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being" of the resident animals is ensured.

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Cats and dogs are not accepted as donations to the zoo, The Times reported.

https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf

Sohl runs a small farm in Assens, Denmark, that lets children living with mental health issues spend time with horses.

Sohl had the zoo euthanize Chicago 57 and was present for the procedure.

"There was a zookeeper standing there cuddling and kissing him  as if it was me standing with him," she told The Times. She was told afterwards that the pony's body would be used to feed the zoo's lions.

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.

Aalborg Zoo, which attracts almost 500,000 guests per year, has been receiving pet donations since it was founded in 1935.

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"We have always done it, as long as the zoo has existed," Anette Sofie Warncke Nutzhorn, the chief zoologist, told Ritzau, a Danish news outlet. "The debate has surprised us, but we are happy to take it and stand by it. We are put into the world to talk about nature and ecosystems."



Read the original article on People
Clinicians are providing medication abortion through telehealth services even to people in states where abortion is banned, thanks in part to shield laws in states where abortion is still legal. (Natalie Behring/Getty Images)

As conservative lawmakers work to restrict online access to abortion medication, a new report shows how popular it has become for women who live in states that have outlawed abortion.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin led a team that analyzed 15 months of prescription data from Aid Access, one of the largest online abortion telemedicine providers.

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They found 84% of Aid Accesss more than 118,000 online prescriptions went to patients living in abortion-ban states.

The South and Midwest had the highest rates of patients accessing telemedicine abortion. Rates were also greater in high-poverty areas or where people would have to travel more than 100 miles to reach an abortion clinic, according to the report, which published this month.

Aid Access is able to mail abortion medications to residents in all 50 states  even those in states with abortion bans  thanks to shield laws in Democratic-led states. Shield laws are designed to minimize the legal risks for people who provide or access abortions across state lines.

Currently, 22 states and Washington, D.C., have reproductive care shield laws, either through legislation or by executive order, according to a report from University of California, Los Angeles School of Law.

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Eight of those states  California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington  specifically protect telehealth abortion providers regardless of where their patient is located.

Shield laws, along with difficulty accessing in-person abortion services in abortion-ban states, have contributed to a rise in medication and telehealth abortions since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal right to abortion in 2022, clearing the way for state bans. With telehealth abortion, patients have a virtual appointment with a clinician who can prescribe abortion medication, which is then filled by a licensed pharmacy and mailed to the patient.

Research has shown telehealth medication abortion is effective and safe, and comparable to in-person medication abortion.

Medication abortion accounted for nearly two-thirds of all clinician-provided abortions in states without bans in 2023, the most recent data available from the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization focused on advancing reproductive rights.

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But as abortion medication use rises, so have conservative efforts to ban it.

This year, more than a dozen states introduced bills to bar access to medication abortion by criminalizing its sale, purchase or distribution, according to Guttmacher.

One such bill in Texas, which could have been a blueprint for medication abortion restriction in other states, was specifically aimed at groups like Aid Access. It would have allowed private citizens to sue for at least $100,000 anyone who provided abortion pills in Texas. The bill passed the Texas Senate but died in the House in May.

Earlier this year, the state of Louisiana criminally charged a New York physician under its abortion ban law for allegedly providing abortion pills to a Louisiana teen via telehealth. New York, which passed a shield law in 2023, refused Louisianas request to extradite the doctor.

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Last month marked the first federal test of shield laws, when a Texas man sued a California doctor for allegedly mailing abortion pills to his partner.

This week, a Texas woman filed a federal lawsuit against Aid Access and against a man who she said impregnated her, then spiked her drink with abortion pills. She is also suing the Dutch doctor who founded Aid Access, alleging Aid Access and its founder mailed abortion-inducing drugs in violation of Texas and federal law.

Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Though a noble profession, the firefighting career is now unappealing for many. Over the past four decades, while the U.S. population has increased by 40%, the number of volunteer firefighters has decreased by 25%. As the number of volunteers declined, the number of career firefighters increased by 57% by 2017, only to experience a decline in the following years.

This time corresponds to an increased awareness of toxic exposure among firefighters, as well as limited legislation on presumptive coverage for conditions caused by hazardous chemical exposure. Notably, although some developments have been achieved in legislation, several gaps remain. To date, volunteer firefighters are not covered by presumptive laws, while women firefighters, a growing demographic in this profession, still face exclusions in coverage for reproductive cancers.

Today, over 90,000 firefighters in the U.S. are women, totaling 9% of the entire workforce. More than 72,000 of them work as volunteers, and thus do not benefit from presumptive coverage for any conditions. In 2025, the Federal Employees Compensation Act was updated to include automatic access to healthcare and financial compensation for breast, ovarian, cervica, and uterine cancers. Yet state-level legislation has yet to adopt this model, although recruitment and retention strategies recognize the importance of coverage.

Firefighters and toxic exposure on the job

Some risks in the firefighting profession are more obvious than others. With each intervention, these professionals risk injuries from collapsing structures, burns, smoke inhalation and acute trauma. Toxic exposure in firefighters is nonetheless an invisible and considerable risk, which includes elements far beyond smoke inhalation.

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Until 2000, not much was known about the toxicity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as the so-called forever chemicals, despite these compounds having been part of firefighter turnout gear and firefighting foams for decades. With legal action against manufacturers, data and research on these substances now reveal that PFAS can cause several severe conditions, including various types of cancer. Action against these substances has only recently been implemented, while since 2023, firefighters from several states have sued manufacturers for failing to properly warn users of these risks.

Subsequent investigations into PFAS and firefighters risks have shown that turnout gear contains staggering amounts of these chemicals. Analysis of blood samples from career and volunteer firefighters reveals an elevated level of PFAS, significantly exceeding the levels found in the general population contaminated through environmental exposure.

Concomitantly, as volunteer firefighting departments are funded from local budgets, turnout gear is often overworn and used, leading to an increased release of PFAS that can be absorbed through the skin, especially in hot and humid conditions. Currently, a large-scale cohort study is recruiting female firefighters to gather more accurate data on cancer risk in this population. Notably, research available thus far suggests that there is an increased risk of breast cancer among women firefighters, with an age of onset far lower than that of the general population.

Washington state omits key cancers in coverage

Several states across the U.S. exclude womens reproductive cancers altogether, even for career firefighters. In this case, compensation may be achieved only following a laborious process whereby the firefighter affected by cancer needs to demonstrate exposure and causality. These processes can take months to develop, often requiring extensive medical documentation, expert testimony and navigating complex legal matters.

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While the Washington State Revised Code acknowledges breast and cervical cancers as occupational hazards for female firefighters, it omits ovarian and uterine cancers from the list, two diseases with well-established links to the toxic exposure common in firefighting environments. Moreover, where compensation is provided, these benefits are available only to career firefighters who have served more than ten years as full-time employees.

There is no recent data available on the number of women firefighters in Washington state; however, according to the latest statistics, 204 women were serving in 30 fire departments.

However, an archived report mentions that in 2008, 93 of the 1,038 firefighters in Seattle were women, which is approximately 9%, reflecting the national average and establishing a link to what became a trend for women in the firefighting profession.

Washington state relies heavily on volunteer firefighters, recruiting approximately 3,900 new volunteers each year. While women remain underrepresented in the field, they are gradually joining the ranks in growing numbers. Under these circumstances, the bills omission of the volunteer firefighters, as well as the ovarian and uterine cancers from the list of occupational hazards, is simply unacceptable and morally wrong. Its time for the state to align with federal standards and recognize the full scope of risks all firefighters face.

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By expanding presumptive coverage to include all reproductive cancers and extending protections to volunteer firefighters, Washington state can secure not only a fair work environment and compensation for these professionals but also its entire future firefighting force.

Jordan Cade is a practicing attorney at Environmental Litigation Group, P.C., where he provides comprehensive legal representation and case assessments for individuals affected by environmental and occupational toxic exposures.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  As KCAU reported on Monday, members of American League Post 64 have voiced concerns that the veterans center would be moved to the 3rd floor of the courthouse; something they say would severely limit access for many veterans.

Veterans concerns regarding changes to the center focus on accessibility. Namely, location and ease of access when it comes to parking and getting into the building.

Tuesday, the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors made it clear that the move is not in their plans.

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What the county is looking at, and I want to be clear, theres been no discussion as far as the board moving anybody to the courthouse. There have been no dates for the Veterans Affairs move. Theres been nothing approved, said Board of Supervisors vice-chair Mark Nelson.

Story continues below

Although the discussion regarding the veterans center was not on todays meeting agenda. The veterans in attendance made their concerns known.

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You just cant have our veterans being treated like this. It has to be easily accessible. Right now, they just walk into the building. Parking and the meters, you go through the metal detector and make it up to the 3rd floor. Thats just not feasible. Something wrong with that idea, one veteran said.

Its easy to get down there. Interstate access its great, its flat. The people treat us well. Coming downtown, I used to be the postmaster here in Sioux City. I know what its like. How congested the area is. There arent a lot of handicap spots for us to get to. Congested traffic. Construction all over, another said.

Supervisors told us the real issue is finding a new home for the county morgue, currently located at UnityPoint Health-St. Lukes.

The hospitals contract with the county runs out at the end of the year, and one option would put the morgue at the Tri-View building, sharing space with Veterans Affairs.

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But for now, there is no plan to move the Veterans Affairs, according to supervisor Nelson.

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TrumpPutin Summit:

Symbolic but fraught: first bilateral summit on US soil since 1988.

Ukraine sidelined; risk of forced territorial swaps without its consent.

Could legitimise aggression and enable delays for Russia to reinforce.

Concessions to Russia:

Dangerous precedent; diplomatic pause but not peace.

Weakens Western unity, emboldens further expansionism.

South Caucasus Ramifications:

US-brokered infrastructure projects like the Trump Corridor already shifting regional balance.

Could form the backbone of a larger US strategic footprint.

Risks: sovereignty concerns, regional backlash, and Russian retaliation.

The summit between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin, scheduled for 15 August 2025 in Anchorage, Alaska, is extraordinary in both form and timing. It marks the first in-person meeting on US soil since the 1988 Governors Island Summit. Alaska, a former Russian territory acquired by the United States in 1867, carries enduring historical and symbolic weight in USRussian relations.

Officially billed as a listening exercise, the summit nonetheless brims with geopolitical hazard. Ukraine, entirely excluded, has been rendered an observer of its own fate, even as its very territory is on the table. This imbalance mirrors Trumps history of favouring theatrical peace over substantive gain, exemplified most famously in Helsinki 2018.



Risks of territorial concessions for Ukraine

A major concern is Trumps public suggestion of some swapping of territories between Russia and Ukraine. Analysts warn that pressuring Ukraine into such swaps, especially without its direct involvement or consent, risks legitimising aggression, eroding sovereignty, and emboldening further Russian expansion. The Atlantic Council warns that such a concession may pause hostilities, but definitively prevent a durable peace.

Indeed, Russia appears to be exploiting this diplomatic opportunity. Putin is seeking to cement his territorial gains, keep Ukraine out of NATO, and prevent Western troops from redeploying near its borderseffectively redrawing the strategic map with American acquiescence. His forces continue to press offensives at Dobropillia and other fronts, signalling that any ceasefire without Ukrainian participation may merely enable further advances.

Although Trumps team has attempted damage control, casting the summit as exploratory rather than definitive, and insisting no unilateral deal will be made, the optics are perilous. Ukraines President Zelensky has insisted repeatedly: No one will back off from this Ukrainians will not surrender their land. European leaders have echoed this sentiment, emphasising that meaningful negotiations must include Ukraine, occur within a ceasefire framework, and uphold international law.

Trumps upcoming Alaska meeting, which is set to take place without Ukraine, has once again drawn not so much the approval as the anger of official Kyiv and European leaders. This, in turn, is a clear indication that no decisive outcome is likely to be achieved. Presumably, Donald Trump is effectively engaging in open bargaining over the world map. To some, this makes him appear less a bold diplomat and more a trader who relishes taking risks.

Consequences for South Caucasus: New front of interests

With the spotlight on the TrumpPutin summit, few have adequately considered its implications for the South Caucasus. Yet, that region is already being reshaped by US initiatives that sharply reduce Russian sway.

Most notably, the US-brokered Zangazur Corridor (also labelled TRIPP) deal effectively creates a transit route linking mainland Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan over Armenian territory. The United States will sublease the land under Armenian jurisdiction for nearly a century, enabling road, rail, energy, and telecom infrastructure projects, a striking geopolitical move to bypass Russian and Iranian influence. Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev and Armenias Prime Minister Mikol Pashinyan praised the deal as a breakthrough, while critics warn of sovereignty issues and authoritarian risk.

This demonstrates that, while Trump may appear to grant ground in Europe, he is simultaneously extending American influence eastwards.

However, the true nature of the matter is entirely different from how it appears.

First and foremost, the corridor known as Zangazur or TRIPP holds historical and strategic significance above all for Azerbaijan, which is why its opening carries vital importance for the region. Until now, neither the United States nor any other party has shown as much interest or persistence in the opening of the Zangazur Corridor as Azerbaijan. Since the 1920s, the deliberate appropriation of Zangazur lands by Armenia and the settlement of an Armenian population there have, from time to time, placed the territory of Nakhchivan in an artificial state of blockade. During the thirty years of occupation, Azerbaijan repeatedly appealed to the United Nations and several other international organisations to lift Nakhchivans blockade, yet such efforts proved futilejust as they did in relation to the occupation of Garabagh.

Ultimately, although the territorial dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Garabagh was resolved through force, the Zangazur issue remained on the agenda as a contentious matter. Choosing a joint mediator for this issue had to be based on the mutual consent of the partieseither Russia or the United States.

Naturally, Russias increasingly tense relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan in recent times have cast doubt over its credibility as a mediator. Moreover, Armenia and its historic enemy Irandespite Moscow and Tehrans outward claims of strategic cooperationtook a sharply negative stance, effectively sidelining Russia. The more pragmatic and economically promising approach of the United States, and in particular of Donald Trump, has therefore made it appear the more suitable partner in the South Caucasus.
Tahawwur Rana, accused of masterminding the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been granted permission for three phone calls with his brother to discuss engaging a lawyer for his defence. A special NIA court at Delhi's Patiala House court on Wednesday granted Tahawwur Rana 3 phone calls with his brother this month. The calls will be recorded and take place in the presence of a senior jail officer, with conversations limited to Hindi or English. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Chander Jit Singh on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of Tahawwur Rana till September 8. He was produced through video conferencing after expiry of his judicial custody. Rana's counsel, Piyush Sachdev, sought more time to scrutinise the documents of the charge sheet and supplementary charge sheet. The matter is at the stage of scrutiny of documents after the filing of a supplementary charge sheet by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). On August 1, the court disposed of an application of Rana seeking a regular telephone facility for his family because of the denial of the facility by the jail authorities. Earlier, he was permitted to make a single call to his family. Rana is in judicial custody after NIA interrogation in the 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack case. He was extradited from the USA in April this year. Earlier, NIA on July 9, filed a supplementary charge sheet against Tahawur Rana in the 26/11 Mumbai terror case. This supplementary charge sheet contains procedural documents, including an arrest memo, a seizure memo, and other documents, Rana's counsel had told ANI. The NIA filed the main charge sheet in December 2011. On June 9, the Court had permitted Tahawwur Rana to make a single phone call to his family for the time being. The call was strictly conducted in accordance with jail regulations and under the supervision of a senior official from the Tihar jail authorities. Recently, the NIA collected voice and handwriting samples from Rana, who was extradited from the United States. The NIA had previously informed the court that Rana was confronted with substantial evidence related to the 26/11 attacks. The agency argued for further custody, citing his evasive behaviour during questioning and lack of cooperation. Special Public Prosecutor Narender Mann represented the NIA in the proceedings. Rana was extradited in April in connection with his alleged involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The devastating attack, orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed over 170 lives and left hundreds injured. (ANI)
GOSHEN TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  A service worker was flown to the hospital on Tuesday after investigators said he was struck by a dump truck in Tuscarawas County.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the hit-and-run crash happened just after noon along US 250 in Goshen Township.

VIDEO: Akron firefighters respond to dumpster fire at business

A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim, a 24-year-old service truck technician, stopped to help a commercial truck driver stuck on the side of the road.

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According to state troopers, they were both working on the left front tire when a 2005 Sterling L8500 dump truck went over the white fog line and struck the technician.

That driver left the scene of the crash, investigators said.

The service worker was flown to Akron Summa Hospital with serious injuries. The commercial truck driver, a 28-year-old man, was treated at the scene.

Bakersfield gang member accused of distributing drugs in Ohio

Law enforcement found the suspect at a local business a couple of hours later. The suspects identity hasnt been released.

The hit-and-run remains under investigation at this time. Anyone with information is asked to reach out to the New Philadelphia Highway Patrol Post at 330-339-1103.

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New data shows that an increasing number of working mothers are leaving the workforce, with both return-to-office work mandates and the increasing cost of childcare among the reasons.

A study published by the Care Board at the University of Kansas found that between January and June of this year, the number of women in the U.S. workforce between ages 25 and 44 with a child younger that 5 years old fell by nearly 3%.

"One factor here is return-to-office policies," Julie Vogtman, senior director of job quality at the National Women's Law Center, told ABC News. "We're seeing employers demand that people in white-collar jobs who started working remotely during the pandemic return to the office three or four or even five days a week, and this can certainly make it harder to manage childcare."

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Vogtman says because it's women who historically shoulder childcare responsibilities, they're the demographic most affected by return-to-office policies, more than their male counterparts.

"When that flexibility disappears, they can find that they need to choose between work and family instead of having the option to do both," Vogtman told ABC News.

MORE: Exclusive: DHS ends teleworking, requires employees to work in person

ABC News - PHOTO: Julie Vogtman breaks down why a growing number of moms are leaving the workforce.

The shift comes as major employers, including Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Starbucks and Zoom, are requiring employees to transition back to working in-office. Data from the Flex Index shows that 13% of Fortune 500 companies mandated full-time in-office requirements in the end of 2024. That number nearly doubled by the second quarter of this year, with 24% of Fortune 500 companies requiring their employess to work on-site full time.

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When asked if such mandates were unreasonable for employers to make, rather than having employees attending to their children during work hours, Vogtman said for working moms, it goes beyond that.

"This isn't just about watching children during work hours," she said. "It's about having the flexibility to handle unexpected situations without facing a long commute, or being able to quickly respond to family emergencies."

MORE: Even Zoom brought workers back to the office. Here's what it means.

Working on-site is even more difficult for moms whose jobs can't be performed remotely, such as retail or food service jobs, who have to pay for childcare, Vogtman said. That often means they have to choose between work, or taking care of their kids.

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"Childcare is incredibly expensive," Vogtman said. "When you can't afford childcare, you're finding yourself with the need to choose between work and family rather than having the opportunity to do both."

An analysis published in November by the U.S. Department of Labor found that U.S. families in 2022 spent between 8.9% and 16% of their income on full-day childcare for a single child, an average of between $6,552 and $15,600 annually. Even childcare for part of a day cost between 8.1% to 9.4% of annual median household income, or between $5,943 and $9,211 a year.

STOCK IMAGE/Getty Images - PHOTO: A woman is pictured at her computer in this undated stock photo.

MORE: New app aims to ease the childcare crunch

While some companies recognize that supporting employees' needs can improve productivity and reduce turnover, "that's not what we see from the majority of employers," Vogtman said.

"Our federal policies aren't just failing workers  they're failing employers, because policies like universal childcare, like flexibility for different work locations and hours, like paid family and medical leave level the playing field so it's not just large corporate employers who can make sure their employees have the support they need, but small, local businesses, too," according to Vogtman.
World War II veteran Eugene Passarella celebrated his 100th birthday at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center on Tuesday, complete with cake, balloons, live music and an abundance of friends and family.

With assistance from a friend or two, the centenarian blew out candles on a small cake to a round of applause from those who filled the community room.

Im a ham, he said, smiling.

*

Centenarian Eugene Passarella is presented with a plaque honoring his milestone birthday during his party at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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*

Loved ones and neighbors prepare to sing happy birthday as centenarian Eugene Passarella is presented with a cake at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

*

Eugene Passarellas birthday cake at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

Show Caption

1 of 3

Centenarian Eugene Passarella is presented with a plaque honoring his milestone birthday during his party at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. (REBECCA PARTICKA/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)

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Expand

A life of service

At just 18 years old and as a recent high school graduate, Passarella was drafted into the Army during World War II.

The West Scranton native was involved in the invasion of Normandy and was wounded by sniper fire at the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. He received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star.

After the war, Passarella returned to Scranton and began working for the U.S. Postal Service. In 1952, her married Louise Colangelo.

An accomplished clarinet and saxophone player, Passarella loves music. He was the longtime leader of the Gene Dempsey Orchestra and still sits in on performances, including at Scrantons La Festa Italiana.

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Passarellas niece, Karen Boback, said she was thrilled to attend the event and was grateful to see her uncle surrounded by fellow veterans.

Boback, a former state representative, said her uncle was one of four brothers who served in World War II: Gene, Mike, Leo and Bobby.

As a state representative, she served on the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness committee, eventually as the committees first chairwoman.

It was natural, she said, because growing up in the Scranton area, much of life was about patriotism, with families displaying flags and participating in parades.

From her youth, she was aware of the importance of military service and of honoring those who served.

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Icing on the cake

Sean OShea, constituent services advisor for state Rep. Kyle Donahue, said it was wonderful to honor a WWII veteran who is 100 years old and still smiling.

His service paved the way for others, OShea said. And, were grateful.

OShea, an Army veteran, said celebrating the life of a fellow veteran was especially sweet.

Its the icing on the cake, he said.

OShea and Thom Welby, district office director for state Rep. Bridget Kosierowski, presented Passarella with a commemorative plaque, honoring him for his service and congratulating him on 100 years well lived.
WORTHINGTON, W.Va. (WBOY)  Worthington residents received an update from the towns sewer board Tuesday night, the first time since the town submitted its Plan of Corrective Action (POCA) to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) addressing the towns ongoing sewage issues.

Now were just repairing what has been broken, Worthington Mayor Debbie Heflin said during the meeting. Sewer Board Member Johnny Bates said these issues go back to the systems installation.

The mayor said the public service commission has been conducting smoke tests to determine where leaks are present. In station one, both vacuum pumps that needed replacement have been changed. The first one was installed on July 8, with the second pump replaced on July 30.

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The grinder station located in Hutchinson has two new pumps installed on July 30 and vacuum at the plant is holding steady, according to an update posted on the towns door.

Sewer board members said the replacement of these pumps has helped reduce the number of problems residents have experienced.

As of right now, theres been no complaints to the DEP, theres been no complaints to the PSC, and we have passed our inspections, Heflin said.

At one point, town recorder Melvin Lindsey said he could hear the pumps working in his home. However, Worthington resident Andrea Zaleski said her sewage issues have persisted.

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Mine have relatively stayed the same with the issues. I mean, weve had to take ours out of our yard and put it over a hill just so we dont have to walk through it.

Some residents also raised concerns over their homes property values declining due to the sewage issues.

At the present time has lost about $10,000 on the value of their home and thats the most valuable thing that youve got living other than your family, is your home. And this town, we seem to be dragging our feet, itll take care of itself, but if theres a person has a complaint, he becomes a victim and not the answer, Worthington resident Tracy Smith said before walking out of the meeting.

Were not dragging our feet, theres only so much you can do in a town until you get, like Ive said before, you get this one problem fixed, then you get to spend that money, then you have to apply for more money and it takes a while to get everything when youre doing a project like this, Lindsey said in response.

Previous coverage

The town is currently working on getting quotes for a new pump at the Maple Street Collection station, as well working on getting quotes for six division valves.

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Im grateful for the DEP because theyre usually here two to three times a week, so, and then PSC. So as of right now, were doing really well. Were doing everything theyve asked us to do and were passing our inspections, Heflin said.

Worthington Mayor Debbie Heflin on the right, during Aug. 12 Worthington Sewer Board meeting (WBOY image).

Also during the meeting, the recorder reminded the town to not trespass into the sewage system properties due to liability problems, stating only specific town officials and companies working on repairs are allowed, all others could be arrested.

Another issue raised by the towns residents was access to the towns updates, which currently can only be found placed on the door of town hall. The mayor said the towns previous Facebook was hacked, but for updates, residents can also visit townofworthington.net.

There is no official word yet on the status of Worthingtons POCA, but 12 News has submitted a Freedom of Information Request to the DEP for a copy it, along with the DEPs comments.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com.
A nurse gives an MMR vaccine at the Utah County Health Department on April 29, 2019, in Provo, Utah. The vaccine is 97% effective against measles when two doses are administered. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)

West Virginia Board of Education President Paul Hardesty on Wednesday doubled down on the boards prior guidance that public schools should continue to require students to adhere to the states strict vaccination requirements, despite Gov. Patrick Morriseys executive order and a Raleigh County courts ruling upholding religious exemptions.

Hardesty said the boards conflict with Morriseys order would be resolved in court, but the board stopped short of voting to appeal Judge Michael Frobles ruling last month that three plaintiffs in a lawsuit be preliminarily allowed to attend class there with a religious exemption.

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Were not going to comply with an executive order thats in conflict with the 1937 law, he said. We cant do that. Weve been advised by our counsel not to do that. I dont want you to think for a minute were trying to inconvenience the people of West Virginia. Were just trying to do our job.

Hardesty said he takes offense to Morriseys characterization of the board as unelected bureaucrats, a comment Morrisey made during a June press conference.

Taking a jab at Morrisey, Hardesty called on schools in every county in the state to teach a unit on the three branches of government.

Theres a checks and balances system in our government, Hardesty said. Theres three branches of government. They perform three different functions. I hate it for the people of West Virginia that this issue is not decided before school started. I wish it was, but I dont control the schedule or the time frame of the judiciary. It takes time. This issue will be decided in the proper venue by the proper people, and well get a decision one way or the other, up or down, and we will comply with that decision.

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In a filing Tuesday, Froble scheduled a hearing for a permanent injunction in the lawsuit for Sept. 10 and 11, beginning at 9 a.m. both days.

West Virginia school start dates vary by county, but at least three school districts started the new school year on Wednesday.

The school board also voted to have its attorney send a letter to the states charter school board to ensure that its in compliance with state law and not accepting religious exemptions for school required vaccinations. The West Virginia Professional Charter Schools Board earlier this month voted that executive director James Paul should communicate to the states seven charter schools that they should accept religious vaccination waivers obtained through the state health department.

Morrisey issued the executive order on his second day in office in January. The order is based on the 2023 Equal Protection for Religion Act, which prohibits government action that substantially burdens a persons exercise of religion.

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Morrisey argues that the states vaccine laws taken together with the 2023 law require the state to allow religious exemptions.

West Virginia has been one of only five states in the country that do not allow students to skip the shots based on their religious beliefs about them. State law allows only medical exemptions. The Legislature earlier this year voted down Senate Bill 460, which would have set the religious exemptions into state code.

The school board earlier this year voted to direct county boards of education not to comply with Morriseys order allowing religious exemptions.

In a statement posted to the social media platform X on Wednesday, Morrisey promised that families who want religious exemptions would ultimately win, either in court or through legislative action.

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Hold strong, Morrisey said. I recognize that the Board [of education] is creating hardships for families but we will keep pushing.

Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our constitutional system and required under state law  we will eventually defeat this politically unaccountable board, he said. Nine year board terms are too long and need to be reconsidered.

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Xp Lee won the DFL primary in the race to replace the late-Rep. Melissa Hortman in District 34B. (Courtesy photo)

Xp Lee, who was born in a refugee camp in Thailand after his family fled Laos amid the Vietnam War, won the Democratic-Farmer-Labor special primary election on Tuesday to replace the late Rep. Melissa Hortman, who was killed in an apparent political assassination.

Hell face Republican Ruth Bittner on Sept. 16, though the solidly blue district will likely deliver a Lee victory and bring the Minnesota House back into a 67-67 tie.

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Lee is a health equity analyst for the Minnesota Department of Health and served on the Brooklyn Park City Council from 2022 to 2024. He previously won the DFL party endorsement in District 34B.

Lee told the Reformer last month that hell focus on health care and education, including the wide disparties in both  Minnesotans health and education outcomes are significantly impacted by the zip codes where they live and were raised.

Lee also said he lives not too far from the home of Melissa and Mark Hortman, who were killed by a gunman on June 14.

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.

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Until the special election, the vacant seat will be one of three left empty in the Minnesota Legislature following the resignation of Sen. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury, and the death of Sen. Bruce Anderson, R-Buffalo.

Lee defeated Christian Eriksen, who has served on the Brooklyn Park City Council since 2022 and formerly chaired the citys Human Rights Commission; and Erickson Saye, a Hennepin County prosecutor.
Supreme Court Deputy Chief Justice Sohlberg issued a temporary order against the A-G's firing on Monday, blocking it from advancing until the court can review the decision.

The Yesh Atid Party submitted a request to the High Court for an interim injunction to prohibit Justice Minister Yariv Levin from "interfering with the workflow and ability of the attorney-general to perform her duties," the party said on Wednesday.

The request from Yesh Atid came after Levin confirmed on Tuesday that the locks were changed at Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara's office.

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"The locks on the minister's office in Tel Aviv were indeed changed, but it is the minister's office and not Gali Baharav-Miara's. Her attempt to make unauthorized use of the minister's office is another example of puzzling behavior on the part of someone who has already been removed from her position."

The a-g's office and the minister's office in Tel Aviv are both located in the Justice Ministry's offices in the government building in Tel Aviv.

The Movement for the Quality of Government demanded an immediate investigation into Levin for changing the locks. "This conduct reveals the government's true narrative - that this is not a 'mechanism change' but a clear personal and political move to silence those who interfere with their activities."

Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara attending a committee meeting in the Knesset, April 27, 2025; illustrative. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)

The government unanimously approved Levins proposal to dismiss Baharav-Miara last week. Supreme Court Deputy Chief Justice Noam Sohlberg, however, issued a temporary order against her firing on Monday, blocking it from advancing until the court can review the legalities of the government's decision.

Sarah Ben Nun contributed to this report.
NEW YORK  There have now been 90 confirmed cases of legionnaires disease in central Harlem, and 15 people are currently hospitalized battling the disease, the citys health department announced this week.

Three people have already died in the outbreak, which has affected zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037 and 10039, according to the NYC Health Department.

If you live or work in the area and have flu-like symptoms, see a health care provider right away, the department wrote in Tuesdays update. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches and shortness of breath.

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Previously, 81 cases had been announced. The three deceased victims have not been publicly identified.

Legionnaires disease is most dangerous to people aged 50 and older, smokers, people with lung disease and anyone with a weakened immune system.

City investigators identified 11 suspicious cooling towers while looking into the outbreak, but all of those towers have since been remediated, the health department said.

Additionally, the cooling towers identified as possible sources of legionnaires disease are separate from building plumbing systems, meaning it remains safe to drink water, bathe, shower, cook and use air conditioners.

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We are continuing to monitor and let buildings know if additional treatment is needed, the department announced Tuesday.

Legionnaires disease is a form of pneumonia caused by legionella bacteria. The bacteria thrive in certain water conditions, but the disease cannot be spread from person to person.
MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  New Yorkers can explore the citys history in ways like never before with this walking tour.

There is a New York City tour that takes you through the history of two things synonymous with the Big Apple: garbage and rats.

Things To Do Around NYC

The Garbage and Rats in New York City Walking Tour, led by Suzanne Reisman, goes through the financial district to teach you about the citys filthiest topics, a former listing on the Municipal Art Societys website read.

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Where there are people, there is garbage. Where there is garbage, there are rats, the summary said.

The tour takes you through when rats arrived in NYC, rat population control, urban myths, legends and true stories about the rodents. On the topic of trash, tour participants can learn about the citys history of garbage, including garbage strikes, where the trash goes, and how the city is built on it.

According to an itinerary on TripAdvisor, the tour starts on Wall Street, goes up South Street Seaport Historic District, DeLury Square and ends near City Hall. Each stop reflects a different point in New Yorks history with rats and garbage.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

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A fun, gross, and informative look at the challenges NYC has faced when dealing with our furry neighbors, as well as a nice way to take in some beautiful views of Financial District architecture, the East River, and the Brooklyn skyline. Recommended for anyone looking for a unique perspective of the city, one review read.

The tour is roughly two hours and thirty minutes, according to the listing. Tickets are $40 per person.

It was the perfect mix of amusing, informative, and truly memorable, another review said.

The tour has five stars on TripAdvisor.

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.

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ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  A New York man has been charged with cyberstalking a family member of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, allegedly leaving threatening voicemails that expressed glee about the insurance executive's killing, federal prosecutors said Wednesday.

Shane Daley, 40, is accused of placing multiple calls to Thompson's family member after the shooting, justifying the killing and saying that the person deserved to die in a similar manner, according to a criminal complaint.

Daley, of Galway, New York, a small town north of Albany, was arrested and had an initial court appearance Wednesday. He was released with GPS monitoring and is scheduled back in court Thursday afternoon, a spokesperson for the U.S. attorney's office in Albany said. Daley's attorney, Samuel Breslin, said they are reviewing the allegations and evidence.

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In a statement, Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone said that Brian Thompson was gunned down in midtown Manhattan. Daley, as alleged, gleefully welcomed this tragedy and did all that he could to increase the Thompson familys pain and suffering."

Thompson was fatally shot outside a hotel in New York City in December by a man who was angered over what he viewed as corporate greed, according to prosecutors. The suspect, Luigi Mangione, has pleaded not guilty.

The killing of Thompson, who led one of the biggest health insurers in the U.S., resulted in a vast outpouring of public frustration with the country's health care system. Many Americans reacted to the shooting by relaying personal stories about difficult experiences with insurance companies. Mangione himself has been lionized as a sort of vigilante hero by those who are critical of the insurance industry.
A bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and Prashant Kumar Mishra also ordered the Olympic medallist to surrender within a week.

The Court issued its verdict on a plea filed by the father of the deceased victim, Sagar Dhankad. In his plea, Sagar's father, Ashok Dhankad, had challenged the Delhi High Court's decision to grant bail to Sushil Kumar.

The Delhi HC had, in May, granted bail to Kumar on the condition of furnishing a Rs 50,000 bail bond and two sureties of the like amount.

Kumar was earlier granted seven days' interim bail for Knee surgery in July 2023. Kumar, along with other accused persons, is facing trial in the junior wrestler Sagar Dhankar's murder case.

The victim, Sagar, along with other victims, was allegedly beaten by the accused person at the Chhatrasal Stadium on the night of May 4, 2021. He was injured and later succumbed to the injuries.

Sushil Kumar is one of the most successful athletes in the country. He won a bronze medal in the Beijing Olympics, and four years later at the 2012 London Olympics, Sushil Kumar won the silver medal. (ANI)
A nurse from New York was sentenced to five months in prison for tampering with fentanyl and hydromorphone in the Connecticut hospital where she worked.

Kristen Carotenuto, of Pelham, N.Y., copped to removing several vials of the drugs from a Stamford surgical centers secure storage area that she had access to in December, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

She then took the vials home, removed the controlled substances using a syringe and used the drugs, the DEA said in a press release Tuesday.

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Prosecutors said the 35-year-old nurse then refilled those vials with saline or water and returned the containers to the surgical centers storage area. However, theres no indication the substituted liquids were administered to any patients.

Carotenuto pleaded guilty last week to tampering with a consumer product. She was released on $25,000 bond but is required to report to prison by Oct 1. She was also ordered to surrender her nursing license.

The National Institutes of Health describes hydromorphone as a potent opioid medication for managing moderate-to-severe acute and severe chronic pain in patients. Fentanyl is a very powerful synthetic drug used to treat severe pain and is known to be highly addictive.
A young woman was struck and killed by gunfire while walking a child to a bus stop in Louisville, Kentucky, on Wednesday morning, and authorities are now searching for the shooter.

The child who was with the woman wasn't physically hurt, Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey told reporters.

WHAS - PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, law enforcement officials are shown at the scene of a shooting in Louisville, KY, on Aug. 13, 2025.

MORE: 4-year-old girl, her grandfather, Target worker killed in 'unprovoked' shooting in Austin: Police

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A 15-year-old boy was taken into custody earlier in the day in connection with the shooting, but authorities determined he was not a suspect and he's been released, police said.

Authorities then released images of a person of interest and said they're asking for the public's help to identify him.

"We do have a description of a young black male dressed in a red hoodie and black sweatpants," Humphrey said.

Louisville Metro Police Department - PHOTO: The Louisville Metro Police Department released these images of the suspect in a shooting at a bus stop on Aug. 13, 2025.

The shooting was in front of "very small children," Humphrey said.

The children who witnessed the gunfire "are forever impacted by this," Humphrey said, noting that counselors are being provided.

WHAS - PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, police tape is shown at the scene of a shooting in Louisville, KY, on Aug. 13, 2025.

MORE: Search underway for man dropped off by ride share in Rocky Mountain National Park

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This marks the second shooting at a Louisville bus stop within one week. On Aug. 7 -- Jefferson Countys first day of school -- multiple shots were fired at a bus stop, police said. No one was hurt and a suspect was arrested, police said.

Officers had been positioned at the site of Wednesday's shooting each morning since Aug. 7, Humphrey said, but "today happened to be the first morning that we did not have officers at this bus stop."

"Kids should be able to go to school, go to the bus stop in the morning without any fear of gun violence, of having to run for their life in the morning," Humphrey said. "It's absolutely unacceptable that these types of incidents have happened now twice in the last week."

ABC News' Michael Pappano contributed to this report.
RICHMOND, VA  Governor Youngkin announces new Lab-to-Launch initiative to unlock innovation in Virginia by accelerating university research commercialization and technology transfer. Developed through a bold statewide collaboration between Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and Virginias six R1 research university partners  George Mason University, Old Dominion University, the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech, William & Mary  this initiative will aim to double the number of startups that spin out annually from Virginias research universities and propel technology breakthroughs into the marketplace. The Lab-to-Launch initiative will create Virginias first-ever standardized Fast-Track License agreement to commercialize university research, while also expanding opportunities to connect with talent and capital from the private sector.

Virginia is home to world-class research university institutions and with Lab-to-Launch and the Virginia Fast-Track License, we are moving at the speed of business to accelerate commercialization pathways for university technology startups, said Governor Glenn Youngkin. Since 2022, weve seen a record over 15,000 high-growth startups launch in Virginia, and we are now ranked top 10 in the nation for both technology and innovation and access to capital. Virginia is leading the way, and I look forward to seeing the transformative discoveries that go from lab to launch and enhance peoples lives, not only in Virginia but throughout the country. I want to thank VIPC CEO Joe Benevento for driving this initiative and the collaboration with the universities forward, and Secretary Segura for his constant focus on making Virginia the best place to start and grow a business.

Lab-to-Launch:

Virginia Fast-Track License for Startups

Standardizes key terms in university intellectual property (IP) license agreements with startups and streamlines the university technology transfer process to make it easier, faster, less costly, and more transparent for scientists, inventors, and entrepreneurs.

Offers some of the most founder-friendly, standard university license economic terms in the country for entrepreneurs.

Startups that spin off from universities using the Virginia Fast-Track License are eligible for a grant award of up to $50,000 from VIPC toward upfront out-of-pocket university commercialization costs.

Private Sector Collaboration with University Commercialization

Launch Entrepreneur-in-Residence program to connect industry experience and business acumen with technical knowledge and scientific expertise.

Create digital database and online catalog for university IP to make it easier for industry partners to access and engage with university innovation pipelines.

Attract private sector investment for university startup spin-offs by engaging with venture capital funds and investor networks and evaluating potential partnership opportunities through VIPCs Virginia Invest platform.

Once again, Virginia is at the forefront because Virginia is open for business, said Secretary of Commerce & Trade Juan Pablo Segura. I am thrilled to see this program launch and cannot wait to see its impact from the extraordinary work, talent and technology we have in our universities as we continue to unlock Virginias potential when it comes to innovation, technology, and everything it has to offer.

Virginias leading university hubs play an essential role in our innovation ecosystems and in catalyzing groundbreaking research discoveries, said President and Chief Executive Officer of Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation Joe Benevento. Collaboration and innovation are at the heart of VIPC  this unique statewide partnership with Virginias R1 universities will elevate the Commonwealths national leadership and launch a new frontier of innovation-driven growth and opportunity.

As part of Lab-to-Launch, university partners will seek ways to identify and share best practices to grow research commercialization efforts in Virginia. VIPC will also measure and benchmark statewide university commercialization outcome metrics against historical baselines as well as national peers.

We are excited to partner with VIPC and the Commonwealth of Virginia on the Lab-to-Launch initiative, said Richard W. Chylla, UVA Licensing & Ventures Group Executive Director. With the support it will provide to early-stage startups and university innovation, it could be a game-changer. Several years from now we hope to look back on the launch of this initiative as a watershed moment that paved the way for countless homegrown companies to have positive impacts on society, while also spurring economic growth in the Commonwealth.

Virginia Tech is proud to support the Virginia Fast-Track Licensean innovative, startup-friendly IP licensing framework developed as part of Virginias new Lab-to-Launch initiative, said Grant Brewer, President of Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties. With licensing terms that are among the most generous in the country, we believe this initiative will encourage the transformation of university innovations into successful new companies. By enabling home-grown technology startups to more easily access and commercialize research, the Virginia Fast-Track License will help fuel economic growth and deliver lasting benefits to both the local community and the broader national economy.

As a rapidly growing, top 50 public research university, with an increasing number of startups and maturing technologies moving to the marketplace, there is no better time than right now for this unique initiative and collaborative partnership between VCU and VIPC, said Srirama Rao, Ph.D., Vice President for Research and Innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University. This collaboration will be a game-changing catalyst in delivering lifesaving medical devices, cutting edge technologies and industry disrupting innovation faster. It will expand economic growth opportunities in Richmond and across Virginia. Lab-to-Launch puts Virginia in a strong competitive position to connect business experience with faculty innovators, offer start-ups access to university technology with clear terms, and create a clear path to seed capital, said Paula Sorrell, Associate Vice President of Innovation & Economic Development at George Mason University. Its a win for tech start-ups, George Mason University, and the Commonwealth  thank you to VIPC for being a great collaborative partner to launch this exciting initiative.

Virginias Lab-to-Launch initiative will make available new resources and tools that accelerate the translation of research into real-world impact, driving the formation of new startups based on Old Dominion Universitys technologies and increasing coordination with VIPC and its network, said Kevin Leslie, Vice President for Research and Commercialization at Old Dominion University. We are excited for this strengthened collaboration and grateful for VIPCs continued support of innovation in the Commonwealth.

William & Mary is excited to collaborate with VIPC and be part of this transformational initiative, said Jason McDevitt, Executive Director of William & Mary Innovations. We believe this will benefit citizens across the Commonwealth by unlocking significant commercialization opportunities and helping to move them out of academia and into new startup ventures.

Interested parties should contact the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) at info@VirginiaIPC.org for more information
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Youngstown burglary case was dismissed Wednesday in Youngstown Municipal Court.

Details behind the dismissal were not available on Wednesday afternoon.

The case against Lewis Brown, 36, involved an incident reported earlier this month on the South Side.

A woman living on Plum Street called police to report that Brown forced his way into her home and locked the door.

The woman ran outside and called police.

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Brown told police that he was being chased by a man with a gun who fired shots at him, according to a police report.

Police said at the time that they had no calls for gunfire in the area or any other disturbances.

Joe Gorman 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.
On Monday, Donald Trump announced he'd be federalizing Washington, DC's police and deploying the National Guard to rescue" the city "from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, and squalor and worse."

Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

These "no 'MR. NICE GUY,'" efforts, as Trump calls them, include removing people without homes from the capital.

Truth Social: Donald Trump / truthsocial.com

Related: Donald Trump Just Shared A Very Ominous Post, And People Are Calling It "One Of The Worst Statements Ever Made By A Sitting US President"

On Tuesday, a reporter asked White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt to clarify the plan, questioning, "Do you have any specifics about how homeless people will be dealt with  where they would be moved to? What does this look like?"

Leavitt says that Trump will imprison homeless people who refuse to go to shelters pic.twitter.com/ekHJHLBtZt  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 12, 2025

Twitter: @atrupar

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Leavitt responded, "Homeless individuals will be given the option to leave their encampment, to be taken to a homeless shelter, to be offered addiction or mental health services."

"And if they refuse, they will be susceptible to fines or to jail time."

The move is controversial  not just because of the threat of handcuffs, but also due to DOGE's government cuts in April, which led to the US Interagency Council on Homelessness's staff being put on leave, according to the Independent.

The council aimed to combat homelessness.

Related: "This Is Like Applauding A Grown Man For Being Able To Wipe Their Behind": 29 Of The Best, Most Brutal, And Funniest Political Tweets Of The Week

Likewise, shelters in DC have faced stalls in receiving funding and issues with being near or at capacity  and this was BEFORE Trump's new order.

Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

In response to this news, netizens raised alarms online. One person wrote, "WHAT SHELTERS!?? I work in mental healthcare and we can't get shelter spots for anyone. There is no room! No staff! No supports!!!!"

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Related: "You Have The Nerve To Call Yourself Christian": The Internet Is Finding It Hard To Sympathize With This Trump Supporter Who Is Suddenly Worried About Access To Healthcare Now That She Might Lose Hers

"They cut funding for alot of programs that FUND homeless shelters and staff," another said. "Now they're saying if you are homeless and don't go to one (as if the homeless shelter systems ACROSS THE NATION aren't already stressed and overwhelmed) you will be arrested..."

If Trump wanted to fix an issue in DC, voices online do not believe this was the way to do it. "You don't end homelessness by jailing people. It just prove you care more about optics than human beings," someone wrote. "Also if your plan to 'end homelessness' involves handcuffs, you're not solving anything, you're just punishing people for being poor!"

The move, people say, lacks empathy:

"To every single working class person that voted for Trump: you are one life changing event away from becoming homeless," this person agreed. "You have more in common with every homeless person in the world than you do with any billionaire that your country is currently giving handouts to."

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Related: Hillary Clinton Just Hit On One Of Donald Trump's Biggest Insecurities With Three Words

And commenters have critiques for more than the plan's execution:

Some even went so far as to say, "Imprisoning innocent people for being poor is fascism."

But what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

Also in In the News: "The AI Told Him To Kill Himself And He Did": 10 Nightmare Things AI And Robots Have Done To Humans

Also in In the News: A Viral Video Is Exposing The Massive Difference Between Christianity And "MAGA Christianity," And Trump Supporters Are Not Happy

Also in In the News: Gavin Newsom Is Going Viral For Shutting Down JD Vance With One Single Map

Read it on BuzzFeed.com
Another Republican lawmaker has faced a cacophony of boos and jeers when coming face-to-face with the general public to defend President Donald Trumps legislative agenda.

PATRICK T. FALLON / AFP via Getty Images

Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) felt the wrath of constituents over the huge tax and spending bill, the trade war, and the crackdown on immigration when speaking during a town hall in Chico, California, on Monday.

KRCR News Channel 7 / Via youtube.com

Related: Uhhh, People Zoomed Into This Picture Of Donald Trump And Found A Scary Surprise

Tensions ran so high that LaMalfa, who was reportedly holding his first in-person forum in close to eight years, was repeatedly called a liar when doing his utmost to justify the presidents policies.

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LaMalfa joins a growing cast of GOP politicians who have been given a raucous reception when meeting voters.

Earlier this month, Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) was heckled relentlessly when confronted over Medicaid cuts, the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and ICE detentions.

LaMalfa, who represents a large rural area of Northern California, held the town hall despite GOP top brass ordering an end to in-person events because of the rise of so-called professional protesters.

Related: Donald Trump Went On An Absolute Rampage After Watching "60 Minutes" And His Posts Are Getting Weird

A major flashpoint in Chico came when a constituent asked LaMalfa, Why are you part of this movement toward fascism?

KRCR News Channel 7 / Via youtube.com

After LaMalfa asked him to stop right there, the constituent continued with his actual question. He went on: If youre not here to announce your resignation, why arent you here to apologize to the farmers of the North State because of your support for the Trump tariffs?

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Do you actually want to talk about something productive? LaMalfa replied, before suggesting the inquiry was grandstanding.

Related: "You Have The Nerve To Call Yourself Christian": The Internet Is Finding It Hard To Sympathize With This Trump Supporter Who Is Suddenly Worried About Access To Healthcare Now That She Might Lose Hers

Against a backdrop of jeering and a distinct cry of Youre a loser, Doug, the congressman outlined how farmers in India had undercut growers in the region, so someone needed to be bold enough to take action on tariffs.

Tom Williams / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Youre a little loose with the word fascism when theres plenty of it going on on the other side of the aisle, LaMalfa added, without giving details on the Democratic Party.,

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LaMalfa was also drowned out by boos when delivering the standard Republican line about eliminating waste and fraud to justify cutting Medicaid.

GOP Rep. Doug LaMalfa held a town hall  and was drowned out by an uproar of boos from constituents.When he tried to bring up Medicaid a constituent shouted: "YOU CUT OUR HEALTH CARE" pic.twitter.com/9mIq1WJxgY  More Perfect Union (@MorePerfectUS) August 11, 2025

@MorePerfectUS / Via Twitter: @MorePerfectUS

Related: Hillary Clinton Just Hit On One Of Donald Trump's Biggest Insecurities With Three Words

We dont want anybody to be harmed by this effort, he said. Indeed, we want the focus to be on those folks that actually do qualify. And that will be a bigger win for them.

You liar! was one audible response among the dissonance.

Also at the town hall, an attendee who said their parents were Holocaust survivors compared Japanese internment camps of World War II to ICE raids and deportations under Trump.

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Will the name LaMalfa be mentioned in the same sentence as [Hitlers propaganda chief Joseph] Goebbels, [Nazi physician Josef] Mengele, and Trump? the constituent asked.

I predict no, LaMalfa replied.

Local ABC affiliate, KRCR News Channel 7, has broadcast the town hall in full.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa faced a question about his support for President Donald Trumps tariffs during a Chico town hall on Aug. 11, responding by defending U.S. trade actions against India over agricultural goods.WATCH CHICO TOWN HALL: https://t.co/xwM2B6mqB4 pic.twitter.com/x5o5yABS2i  KRCR News Channel 7 (@KRCR7) August 11, 2025

@KRCR7

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.

Also in In the News: "The AI Told Him To Kill Himself And He Did": 10 Nightmare Things AI And Robots Have Done To Humans

Also in In the News: A Viral Video Is Exposing The Massive Difference Between Christianity And "MAGA Christianity," And Trump Supporters Are Not Happy

Also in In the News: "This Is Like Applauding A Grown Man For Being Able To Wipe Their Behind": 29 Of The Best, Most Brutal, And Funniest Political Tweets Of The Week

Read it on BuzzFeed.com
A teen boy looks at an iPhone screen. Credit - Matt CardyGetty Images

YouTube is one of the most popular online platforms in the U.S. among all age groups. But not all content on the video-sharing site is appropriate for all ages.

While the platform, like most, has restrictions on certain content, such as violence and nudity, for users under 18, these safeguards have in the past been easy for young users to circumvent by entering an older birthdate on their account.

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But now, the company is rolling out an artificial intelligence-powered tool to estimate a users age based on their activity on the platform and then use that signal, regardless of the birthday in the account, to deliver our age-appropriate product experiences and protection, said James Beser, director of product management at YouTube Youth, in blog post last month.

The technology, according to Beser, has been used in other markets for some time and will begin being tested in the U.S. on Wednesday before a wider rollout.

Were proud to again be at the forefront of introducing technology that allows us to deliver safety protections while preserving teen privacy, Beser said. Families trust YouTube to provide a safe and enriching experience, and well continue to invest to protect their ability to explore safely online.

Heres what to know about YouTubes plans to estimate the ages of American users.

How the AI-powered tool works

According to Beser, the model will interpret a variety of signals from users to estimate their age. These include, he says, the types of videos a user is searching for, the categories of videos they have watched, or the longevity of the account.

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If the model flags that a user is under 18, YouTube will automatically apply age-specific protections. These include disabling personalized advertising, turning on digital wellbeing tools like reminders to take breaks and go to bed, and installing safeguards to recommendations such as limiting repeated exposure to certain types of content.

We will only allow users who have been inferred or verified as over 18 to view age-restricted content that may be inappropriate for younger users, Beser said.

According to a support forum on parent company Google, YouTube wont require all users to upload their IDs. But if the model wrongly estimates that a user is underage, they will be able to verify that they are 18 or older through a credit card, a selfie, or a government-issued ID. Users deemed underage can choose not to upload these, though protections for teens would remain in place.

The new model may also have a limited impact on creators, according to the same forum. If a user is identified as a teen, YouTube may set their uploads as private by default and may restrict their ability to earn from gifts on vertical live streams. This may result in a decrease in ad revenue, said a YouTube employee, since we only serve non-personalized ads to those viewers.

Why is YouTube doing this?

With teenagers constantly finding ways to get around age restrictions, platforms like YouTube are facing increasing political pressure in the U.S. to do more in protecting minors through stricter measures.

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In June, the Supreme Court upheld as constitutional a Texas law that required age verification for websites hosting sexually explicit content. Some states have also introduced laws that order restrictions on social media for minors. And the bipartisan-backed Kids Online Safety Act, which would require platforms to take greater steps to minimize harm to minors, was reintroduced this year in Congress.

Its also part of a broader global trend. In Australia, the government is moving towards a nationwide ban of children under 16 from social media (YouTube included), and has also introduced age checks for search engines. In the U.K., an Online Safety Law targeting adult sites requires users to confirm their ages, though non-adult platforms like Spotify, Reddit, and X have reportedly also sought age verification from users.

Some of these policies, however, have hit legal snags primarily over concerns about privacy and free speech.

What are the implications and concerns?

Age-estimation technology, according to internet civil rights group Center for Democracy & Technology, may deprive some users from technology they should be able to access. For example: Should an adult be misclassified as a child user simply because they watch a lot of roleplay game reviews on YouTube, they will have to choose between appealing the decision by the service and uploading their ID or foregoing access to the service entirely.

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YouTubes age-estimation plan is also under scrutiny over potential privacy infringement: a Change.org petition against the rollout has collected over 68,000 signatures to date.

The petition says that mass surveillance and data control are at stake, since the age estimation model analyzes users viewing behaviors and watch history. It also argues that the move by YouTube could set a dangerous precedent: Once these systems are normalized, they rarely go awaythey expand. If we dont speak up now, we risk losing our ability to browse, create, and enjoy content freely. This is about more than YouTube. This is about digital freedom.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  The greater Binghamton YWCA has many programs to support different marginalized groups in Broome County.

ENCOREplus is a breast and cervical health outreach program that has been serving women in the community for over 25 years at no cost.

Senior Project Director Crystall Sackett has been at ENCOREplus for 19 years and says she has stayed there for all that time because it is a cause that is near and dear to her heart.

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Senior Project Director Crystal Sackett says,Breast cancer has affected me personally with my family members. Ive lost two aunts with breast cancer, Ive had two grandmothers with breast cancer. But I think the idea of seeing women who say oh it doesnt run in my family I dont need to get screened and to be able to convince these women you know what, just get that clinical breast exam or just you know, knowing that weve saved their lives..

This year alone, ENCOREplus has diagnosed 42 women with early stages of breast cancer and currently provides services to over 7 thousand women.

Sackett says the program has come a long way since she started when they only served 565 women, but she says the greatest barrier to getting women services is transportation.

Senior Project Director Crystal Sackett says, Well it used to be I transported everybody in my car. And then we moved into having a cab service. So we work with a cab service that is actually on demand, which is wonderful. We call, we make the appointment, they go and they pick them up, and they wait for them and they bring them back home. So its been a wonderful partnership..

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In addition to providing free transportation, the program also provides childcare and will look after anyone accompanying a patient during their appointment. But participant Carrie Verrocchio says that isnt why she chose ENCOREplus.

Participant Carrie Verrocchio says, ENCOREplus chose me. Back in 2010 I had just gone out on business on my own and opted to walk away from any kind of health insurance. And I was still in that period of figuring out what I was gonna do for health insurance and also knew I was ready for a breast exam and I just figured I would skip it for a couple of years until I got my life figured out and I got a phone call..

ENCOREplus calls between 100 and 125 women a day whose names they received through outreach or hospitals send them lists of people who dont have health insurance and would be good candidates for the program. Verrocchio says ENCOREplus is very persistent in convincing women to come in for appointments.

Participant Carrie Verrocchio says, So I just kept putting that scan off, even though colon cancer ran in our family. And they kept calling and on the last call they said listen if you reschedule this scan again, we have to start all over again. You need to go get this done. So I went in in December and that scan showed advanced colon cancer in a very short time. If they had not stayed on me then that would have been missed and I would not be here. So ENCOREplus saved my life..

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Saving lives at no cost to patients, ENCOREplus receives funding through the New York State Grant program that goes through cancer services to pay for women without health insurance or with qualifying incomes. While receiving many calls may feel off-putting to some, Verrocchio says listening to ENCOREplus is the reason she is alive.

Participant Carrie Verrocchio says, And I always tell anyone I talk to about the program, I owe them my very existence right now. Because they stayed on top of it. They just would not take no for an answer. Youre gonna go in there, youre gonna get this done and were gonna take care of it. And that is how they are, those calls are there and theyre not to bug you, or to drive you nuts. Its because they truly care about you as a woman and about your health and helping you live a healthy life..

Sackett says funding has been a problem for ENCOREplus as much of their funding sources go towards treatment rather than preventative care. On September 14th they will host the All Paws for a Cause fundraiser where 100 percent of the proceeds will go towards helping with transportation.

Those interested in helping out can register for the event or donate online at YWCABinghamton.org.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  A New Zealand lawmaker who was thrown out of Parliament for calling her opponents spineless during a fiery debate about a Palestinian state was ejected again on Wednesday when she refused to apologize for the remark.

Chloe Swarbrick, co-leader of the left-leaning Green Party and part of the opposition bloc, was ordered to leave parliament on Tuesday over a speech in which she called for government lawmakers with a spine to endorse her proposal for New Zealand to impose sanctions on Israel over the war in Gaza.

She was hit with a three-day ban  lengthy by New Zealand parliamentary standards  but returned the next day only to be ejected a second time.

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Her censure came amid fraught scenes in Parliament in Wellington on Tuesday as opponents rebuked the government for not moving to recognize an independent Palestinian state, days after neighboring Australia pledged to do so. Countries including France, Britain and Canada are also expected to recognize a state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

We are one of the very few countries in the world who so far refuse to acknowledge the absolute bare minimum, Swarbrick said.

Calling opponents spineless prompted the ejection

The Green party lawmaker was abruptly ejected from the debating chamber when she urged government politicians to join her in a proposal to sanction Israel, which currently wouldnt have enough votes to pass into law.

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If we can find six of 68 government MPs with a spine, we can stand on the right side of history, Swarbrick said, referring to other Members of Parliament.

That is completely unacceptable to make that statement, Speaker Gerry Brownlee interrupted. Withdraw it and apologize.

The Green politician refused. Brownlee told her to leave the debating chamber for the rest of the week.

Happily, Swarbrick said.

The standoff resumed when Swarbrick took her seat again on Wednesday despite the ban and Brownlee asked again if she would apologize. Swarbrick declined and was ejected once more, yelling free Palestine as she went.

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Brownlee took the serious step, rare in New Zealands Parliament, of taking a vote to name Swarbrick for her misconduct, a ruling that means a legislator is formally suspended with their pay docked. The vote passed, with all government lawmakers endorsing it.

Opposition lawmakers claim double standards

The measure provoked fresh debate in Parliament about punishments for unruly behavior. Government lawmakers voted in June to enact unprecedented lengthy bans of opposition Maori Party lawmakers who performed a haka chant to protest a controversial vote.

On Wednesday, opposition politicians decried Swarbricks penalty as unusually severe, with lawmaker Willie Jackson highlighting his own ban of just 30 minutes for calling one of his colleagues a liar, before he was allowed to resume his seat without an apology. In another recent example, a government politician used an eye-watering expletive without censure, supporters of Swarbrick said.

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Several others had escaped punishment in recent years when using the word spineless about their opponents. Opposition leader Chris Hipkins said it was unprecedented for a lawmaker to be ejected from Parliament for a second day over the same offense.

Brownlee, however, said he had drawn a line when Swarbrick directed a personal insult at all 68 government lawmakers  including him.

We have so many threats and other stuff being directed at Members of Parliament, he said. If we dont change the behavior in here, nothing will change outside.

Protests about the war in Gaza have prompted tensions about free speech in other countries. In London, more than 500 people were arrested Saturday when supporters of a pro-Palestinian group recently outlawed as a terrorist organization intentionally broke the law to test the British governments ability to enforce the ban.

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Pressure grows to decide Palestinian statehood question

Meanwhile, the government continues to mull recognition of an independent Palestinian state. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon Wednesday made his most strident rebuke yet of Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the Israel leader has lost the plot on the human catastrophe in Gaza.

I think Netanyahu has gone way too far, Luxon told reporters. He is not listening to the international community and that is unacceptable.

While senior New Zealand officials, including Luxon, have said recognition of Palestine from their government was a matter of not if, but when, his Cabinet has yet to endorse a change of position. A decision will be made in September after further consideration, Luxon said Monday.
New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has criticized his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu in unusually harsh terms, calling the latest attacks in the Gaza Strip "utterly, utterly unacceptable."

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, he said he thought Netanyahu "has lost the plot." Israel has repeatedly ignored appeals from the international community for unhindered humanitarian access in Gaza, thereby risking further calamities, he added.

New Zealand is very far away and has hardly any trade relations with Israel, he pointed out. However, he insisted that the Pacific nation stands for strong values and speaks out clearly on them.

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The "forcible displacement of people" and "an annexation of Gaza" would be a breach of international law, Luxon emphasized.

Netanyahu recently announced that Israel's new war plan includes not only taking over Gaza City but also crushing Hamas elements in the refugee camps of the central Gaza Strip. He said Israel's goal was not to occupy Gaza, but to "liberate" it from Hamas.

The government in Wellington is considering joining countries such as France, Canada, and Australia in officially recognizing a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September.

Luxon warned that the latest developments could destroy the path to a two-state solution.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan participated in the Rakshabandhan program of a women's self-help group organised in Vidisha district on Wednesday and got a rakhi tied to mark the occasion. Union Minister Chouhan also emphasised that it is a threat of affection, love, and warmth and he resolved that there should not be any difficulties in the lives of women. Speaking to reporters, Chouhan said, "I see goddesses in women and serving them is worship of Devi maa to me. Today, sisters tied Rakhi on my wrist. This is a thread of affection, love, and warmth. The resolve is that there should be no trouble or difficulty in the lives of sisters. There should not be any women who ask for, but they should be economically empowered so that they can become givers. I am happy that the resolution taken by the Prime Minister to create three crore Lakhpati Didi is nearing two crore, and soon we will achieve the target." The Union Minister further appealed to everyone to buy products made within the country and use indigenous products, thereby increasing employment opportunities and strengthening the economy. "I appeal to all my countrymen that this is the time to live for the nation. Independence Day is just around the corner, and living for the nation means we should buy only things made in our country and use indigenous products. Whatever items come into our homes, let us resolve to buy only things made in our country so that employment opportunities increase and the economy strengthens. If this India of 144 crore people stands together, no one can stop it from becoming number one in the world," he added. Additionally, Chouhan also participated in the Tiranga Yatra and Swadeshi March organised in the district on Wednesday. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on August 11, announced the 4th edition of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. The campaign, carried out across the country, has become a people's movement, with over five lakh young people registering in the fourth year of the campaign, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture. (ANI)
By Andrea Shalal, Thomas Escritt and Tom Balmforth

WASHINGTON/BERLIN (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump threatened "severe consequences" if Russia's Vladimir Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine but also said on Wednesday that a meeting between them could swiftly be followed by a second that would include the leader of Ukraine.

Trump did not specify what the consequences could be, but he has warned of economic sanctions if his meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday proves fruitless.

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The comments by Trump and the outcome of a virtual conference with Trump, European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy held on Wednesday could provide encouragement for Kyiv after fears the Alaska summit could end up selling out Ukraine by carving up its territory.

However, Russia is likely to resist Ukraine and Europe's demands strongly and previously has said its stance had not changed since it was first detailed by Putin in June 2024.

When asked if Russia would face any consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war after Fridays meeting, Trump responded: Yes, they will.

Asked if those consequences would be sanctions or tariffs, Trump told reporters: I don't have to say. There will be very severe consequences."

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But the president also described the aim of the meeting between the two leaders in Alaska as "setting the table" for a quick follow-up that would include Zelenskiy.

"If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," Trump said.

"I would like to do it almost immediately, and we'll have a quick second meeting between President Putin and President Zelenskiy and myself, if they'd like to have me there."

Trump did not provide a time frame for a second meeting.

RED LINES

European leaders and Zelenskiy had earlier spoken with Trump in a last-ditch call hosted by Germany to lay out red lines ahead of the Alaska meeting.

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"We had a very good call. He was on the call. President Zelenskiy was on the call. I would rate it a 10, very friendly," Trump said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump agreed Ukraine must be involved in any discussions about ceding land, while Zelenskiy said Trump had supported the idea of security guarantees in a post-war settlement.

"President Trump was very clear that the United States wanted to achieve a ceasefire at this meeting in Alaska," Macron said.

"The second point on which things were very clear, as expressed by President Trump, is that territories belonging to Ukraine cannot be negotiated and will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president."

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who hosted the virtual meeting, said the principle that borders could not be changed by force must continue to apply.

"If there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and we Europeans should ... increase the pressure," he said.

"President Trump knows this position. He shares it very extensively and therefore I can say: We have had a really exceptionally constructive and good conversation with each other."

Trump and Putin are due to discuss how to end the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict, the largest in Europe since World War Two. Trump has previously said both sides will have to swap land to end fighting that has cost tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions.

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RUSSIA MAKES SHARP ADVANCE INTO UKRAINE

On a day of intense diplomacy, Zelenskiy flew to Berlin for the virtual conferences with European leaders and then with Trump.

He and the Europeans worry that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine, rewarding it for nearly 11 years of efforts to seize Ukrainian land, the last three in all-out war, and embolden Putin to expand further west.

Russian forces have made a sharp thrust into eastern Ukraine in recent days in what may be an attempt to increase the pressure on Kyiv to give up territory.

"I told the U.S. president and all our European colleagues that Putin is bluffing (about his stated wish to end the war)," Zelenskiy said. "He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine."

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A source familiar with the matter said the call with Trump discussed possible cities that could host a three-way meeting, depending on the outcome of the talks in Alaska.

Wary of angering Trump, European leaders have repeatedly said they welcome his efforts, while stressing that there should be no deal without Ukraine's participation.

Trump's agreement last week to the summit was an abrupt shift after weeks of voicing frustration with Putin for resisting the U.S. peace initiative. Trump said his envoy, Steve Witkoff, had made "great progress" at talks in Moscow.

A Gallup poll released last week found that 69% of Ukrainians favour a negotiated end to the war as soon as possible. But polls also indicate Ukrainians do not want peace at any cost if that means significant concessions.

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Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Alexei Fadeev earlier said Moscow's stance had not changed since last year.

As conditions for a ceasefire and the start of talks, Putin had demanded Ukraine withdraw its forces from four regions that Russia has claimed as its own but does not fully control, and formally renounce plans to join NATO.

Kyiv swiftly rejected the conditions as tantamount to surrender.

(Additional reporting by Lili Bayer in Brussels, Madeline Chambers in Berlin, Yuliia Dysa in Kyiv and Steve Holland in Washington; Writing by Tom Balmforth, Matthias Williams and James Oliphant; Editing by Mark Bendeich, Jon Boyle, Kevin Liffey, Alex Richardson and Daniel Wallis)
KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that he warned U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of his talks with Vladimir Putin this week that the Russian leader is "bluffing" about his desire to end the war.

Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska on Friday, where Kyiv and its allies are worried the two leaders may try to dictate the terms of peace in the 3-1/2-year war.

"I told the U.S. president and all our European colleagues that Putin is bluffing," he said at a joint briefing in Berlin with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

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"He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine."

Zelenskiy's comments, made after a virtual call with Trump and European leaders, come as Russian forces step up pressure on the battlefield in eastern Ukraine, aiming to force Kyiv to give up land.

Zelenskiy, who said he hoped the main topic of the talks in Alaska would be an immediate ceasefire, added that any discussions regarding territory should be covered during a three-leader meeting.

"Regarding our principles and territorial integrity, in the end this is all decided at the level of leaders," he said. "Without Ukraine, it is impossible to decide this. And, by the way, everyone also supports this."

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Zelenskiy said Trump told him he would debrief him about his talks with Putin.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Additional reporting by Max Hunder; writing by Dan Peleschuk; editing by Mark Heinrich and Giles Elgood)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in Berlin on Wednesday for video talks with European allies and US President Donald Trump, ahead of a high-stakes US-Russia meeting on the war in Ukraine.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who organized the talks at short notice, said the aim was to ensure Kiev and its European partners are fully involved ahead of Trump's Friday meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Zelensky landed by helicopter at the Chancellery, where Merz personally greeted him.

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The two leaders held bilateral discussions over lunch before beginning the video conference with European allies at 2 pm (1200 GMT). Expected participants included the leaders of France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

About an hour later, a second online discussion will be held with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance. Merz and Zelensky are then due to give statements in Berlin at around 4 pm.

The German leader also plans to update the members of the Coalition of the Willing, an alliance of some 30 countries supporting Ukraine led by Britain and France, on the outcome of the talks with Trump and Vance.

'This war must end'

Ahead of his arrival in Berlin, Zelensky expressed little optimism over Friday's talks in Anchorage, saying Moscow shows no willingness to end the war on its smaller neighbour, now in its fourth year.

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"This war must end. Pressure must be exerted on Russia for a fair peace," Zelensky wrote on Telegram before touching down in the German capital. He said Ukraine, Europe, and the US must act together to compel Moscow to negotiate.

European governments fear the TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected.

Trump has described the Alaska meeting as an effort to move toward ending the war, now in its fourth year, including possible "land swaps."

Merz, Zelensky and their European partners are expected to try to extract a promise from the US president to refrain from making any deals with Russia without involving Ukraine and its European partners.

What is Trump going to do?

On Monday, Trump appeared to dispel fears that he could strike a potential agreement without Ukraine's involvement, saying: "It's not up to me to make a deal. I think a deal should be made for both [sides]."

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In fact, Trump cannot make any binding commitments to Putin without the consent of Ukraine, with the US neither in the position to dictate a ceasefire nor a withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the country's own internationally recognized territories, particularly since territorial concessions would require a change to the Ukrainian constitution.

However, the US president holds considerable leverage over Ukraine, and could decide to halt arms deliveries or stop sharing satellite data or intelligence information in a major blow to Kiev's defences.

German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius previously said Wednesday's talks were aimed at discussing further options to increase pressure on Moscow. Leaders are also set to talk about preparations for potential peace negotiations.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a troublemaker within the European Union known for blocking efforts to sanction Russia over the war, meanwhile left no room for doubts over what he thinks will be the outcome of Friday's meeting.

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"[Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky] has lost this war," he said in an interview published by far-right conservative news site mandiner.hu on Wednesday.

He said that, had it not been for Western financial and military support, Kiev would have capitulated "long ago".

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) welcomed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the garden of the Federal Chancellery. John Macdougall/POOL AFP/dpa
President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke by phone with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who offered to host future peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Turkey.

The Aug. 12 call came just days before U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet Aug. 15 in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss ending the war in Ukraine  without Ukraine's participation.

During the phone call, which both sides reported on social media, Zelensky and Erdogan discussed the "current diplomatic situation"  likely referring to the Trump-Putin summit  and the opportunities it presents.

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"President Erdogan clearly stated that any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace. We equally understand all the risks and threats," Zelensky wrote on Telegram.

Zelensky also noted that Erdogan expressed readiness to host a summit involving Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and Turkey.

The Turkish president's office said the call was made at Ukraine's request and covered bilateral ties as well as regional and global issues. Erdogan said he valued the progress made in earlier Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul and hoped for meaningful results in the next rounds toward a ceasefire.

Zelensky has sought to rally support from Kyiv's allies in the days since the Trump-Putin summit  and Trump's proposed "land swap"  were first announced.

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To that end, European leaders issued a joint statement on Aug. 11, affirming their support for Ukraine and stressing that "international borders must not be changed by force" and "the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine."

Read also: About to be sold out  Fears mount in Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin meeting

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is joining European leaders in talks aimed at increasing pressure on US President Donald Trump to side with Ukraine during Friday's summit with his Russian counterpart in Alaska.

In an online call with Trump on Wednesday, the leaders are expected to reiterate that no decisions should be taken without Ukraine, including changing its borders by force.

Trump has said any peace deal would involve "some swapping of territories" and it is believed one of Vladimir Putin's demands is that Kyiv surrenders the parts of the eastern Donbas area it still controls.

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On Tuesday, Zelensky said such a concession could be used as a springboard for future attacks by Russia.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

A Russian summer offensive has been progressing with troops making a sudden thrust near the eastern town of Dobropillia and advancing 10km (six miles) in a short period of time.

While downplaying Russia's advance, Zelensky said it was "clear to us" that Moscow's objective was to create a "certain information space" before Putin meets Trump that "Russia is moving forward, advancing, while Ukraine is losing".

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No official details have emerged on what demands Putin could make when he meets Trump in Anchorage on Friday.

However, there has been concern among Ukraine's European allies about the possibility of Trump agreeing to Putin's demands.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called Wednesday's meeting and Zelensky is travelling to Berlin to join him for the video call with other European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, before the call with Trump.

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Zelensky has previously insisted that Ukrainians would not "gift their land to the occupier", and pointed to the country's constitution, which requires a referendum before a change in its territory.

Last week, Trump said there would be "some swapping of territories to the betterment of both" Russia and Ukraine - sparking concern in Kyiv and across Europe that Moscow could be allowed to redraw Ukraine's borders by force.

Russia currently controls just under 20% of Ukrainian territory.

The Donbas - made up of the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk - has been partly occupied by Russia since 2014.

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Moscow now holds almost all of Luhansk and about 70% of Donetsk but speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine would reject any proposal to leave the Donbas.

[BBC]

The White House on Tuesday said the Alaska talks would be a "listening exercise" for Trump and added having him and Putin sit down in the same room would give the US president "the best indication on how to end this war".

It follows Trump describing the summit as a "feel-out meeting" on Monday, seeming to tone down expectations that Friday's meeting could bring Ukraine and Russia closer to peace.

When he announced the summit last week, Trump sounded positive that the meeting could result in concrete steps towards peace.

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"I think my gut instinct really tells me that we have a shot at it," he said.

The Ukrainian leader has previously said any agreements without Kyiv's involvement would amount to "dead decisions".
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders have begun talks via video link with US President Donald Trump about his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The online meeting was arranged at short notice by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, with Zelensky personally joining him on Wednesday at the Chancellery in Berlin. In addition to Trump, US Vice President JD Vance was also expected to take part.

Earlier, Zelensky joined a preliminary video discussion just among European leaders.

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Participants in the call with Trump were to include leaders from France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and Zelensky himself.

Berlin said the aim of the talks was to ensure Kiev and its European partners are fully involved in the preparations for Trump's Friday meeting with Putin in Alaska, which is focussed on the war in Ukraine.

European governments fear the TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz take part in virtual consultations between European heads of state and government in the Chancellery with a view to the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. John Macdougall/AFP Pool/dpa
Pressure mounted ahead of a landmark summit in Alaska between the United States and Russia, as Donald Trump warned that Vladimir Putin had only one chance but Moscow pressed ahead with major battlefield gains in Ukraine.

Putin and Trump will meet Friday at an air base in the far-northern US state, the first time the Russian leader has been permitted on Western soil since his February 2022 invasion of Ukraine which has killed tens of thousands of people.

With such high stakes, all sides were pushing hard in the hours before the meeting.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has refused to surrender territory to Russia, spoke by telephone Wednesday with Trump, as did European leaders who voiced confidence afterward that the US leader would seek a ceasefire rather than concessions by Kyiv.

Trump himself sent mixed messages, saying that he could quickly organize a three-way summit afterward with both Zelensky and Putin but also warning of his impatience with Putin.

"There may be no second meeting because, if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have, then we are not going to have a second meeting," Trump told reporters.

Russia, Trump said, would face "severe consequences" if it does not halt its offensive.

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But Trump said: "If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," involving both Putin and Zelensky.

Putin pitched the meeting after Trump threatened sanctions on Russia. Trump has already ramped up tariffs on India, which has become a key buyer of Russian energy.

Zelensky, after being berated by Trump at a February meeting in the White House, has publicly supported US diplomacy but made clear his deep skepticism.

"I have told my colleagues -- the US president and our European friends -- that Putin definitely does not want peace," Zelensky said.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who welcomed Zelensky in Berlin, said Ukraine is ready to negotiate "on territorial issues" but stressed that legal recognition of Russian occupations "would not be up for debate."

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NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte declared: "The ball is now in Putin's court."

- Talks at Cold War base -

Trump will meet Putin on Friday at Elmendorf Air Force Base, a major US military hub in Alaska's most populous city of Anchorage that played a key role in monitoring the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Off the base, on the rainy streets of Anchorage, there were few signs that the world's eyes would soon be on the city, other than an influx of media who have booked up virtually all rooms.

The US Treasury Department announced that it would temporarily ease sanctions on the visiting senior Russian officials, who normally would struggle to carry out simple transactions, such as withdrawing cash in Western countries.

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The most visible sign of the impending summit was in Ukraine itself.

According to an AFP analysis of battlefield data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War, Russian forces made their biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in more than a year on Tuesday.

The Russian army took or claimed 110 square kilometers (42.5 square miles) on August 12 compared with the previous day.

Ukrainian soldiers in Kramatorsk, an eastern city about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the front, said they had low expectations for Trump's meeting with Putin.

Artem, a 30-year-old serviceman, said the war would likely continue for "a long time."

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"Putin is massing an army, his army is growing, he is stockpiling weapons, he is pulling the wool over our eyes."

Trump has long voiced admiration for Putin and had vowed to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of returning to the White House.

But he has since voiced frustration as Putin ignores his pleas for a ceasefire and presses ahead with attacks on Ukraine.

burs-sct/sla
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hopes for an immediate ceasefire as well as robust security guarantees for his country from the upcoming summit between the presidents of the United States and Russia.

Zelensky stressed that in all negotiations concerning the future of his country, Ukraine must have a seat at the table.

Furthermore, he asserted that Russia should not be granted a veto right regarding Ukraine's NATO membership.

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He was speaking at the Chancellery in Berlin on Wednesday after online consultations with European leaders and US President Donald Trump.

Speaking with Zelensky at a press conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Ukraine needs security guarantees on the path to a possible peace with Russia.

Merz said that such guarantees were briefly discussed during the consultations that included Zelensky. "We know that Ukraine needs security guarantees," he said.

He stated that the Ukrainian army must continue to be strengthened to defend the country. How security guarantees might look and from which states was not the subject of the conversation, Merz said. However, this would have to follow as soon as there is a path to peace.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban believes Ukraine has lost the war against Russia, as he looked ahead to a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the conflict.

"[Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky] has lost this war," he said in an interview published by far-right conservative news site mandiner.hu on Wednesday.

"We are talking like this was a situation of war with an open end," the Hungarian leader said, adding that this assessment was false.

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"The Ukrainians have lost this war, Russia has won the war."

Orban, who has repeatedly vetoed EU sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine, claimed that Kiev would not capitulate as long as it was being supplied with weapons and funds by Western partners.

"Otherwise this war would have been over long ago," the right-wing politician said.

On Tuesday, Budapest declined to sign a joint statement by its 26 fellow European Union allies welcoming efforts by Trump to end Russia's war on Ukraine.

The statement demanded that Ukraine's territorial integrity be ensured, saying that "international borders must not be changed by force."

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Orban, justifying his government's refusal to back the declaration, said it attempts to "set conditions for negotiations to which EU leaders were not even invited".

The bilateral meeting between Trump and Putin set to take place in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday has sparked fears in Kiev and the rest of Europe that the two leaders could strike an agreement that would force Ukraine into making territorial concessions - a move that Zelensky has categorically ruled out.

Orban, in a post on Facebook, said it was "sad enough that the EU has been pushed to the sidelines."

"The only thing worse would be if we were giving instructions from the sidelines," he wrote.
Editor's note: The story is being updated.

President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin on Aug. 13 to meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz before talks with U.S. and European leaders.

Suspilne, Ukraine's public broadcaster, released footage of Zelensky arriving in Germany by plane ahead of upcoming high-level meetings.

Zelensky and Merz will hold a bilateral meeting before joining a video conference with European leaders, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and U.S. President Donald Trump, spokesperson Serhii Nykyforov has said.

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The German government said the call between Zelensky, Trump, and European leaders is expected to take place at 2 p.m. local time, according to Reuters. A separate call with Trump, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and European leaders is expected an hour later, according to the news agency.

The talks will take place just two days before Trump's planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15, the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since the start of Trump's second term.

Trump has described the Alaska talks as a "feel-out" meeting in his efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war. He has said both Kyiv and Moscow would need to cede territory to reach a deal, a stance that has alarmed European capitals and Kyiv.

An undisclosed source familiar with U.S. deliberations told Reuters that it is possible that Trump might attempt to strike a deal directly with Putin without involving Ukraine or Europe.

In a press conference on Aug. 11, Trump confirmed Zelensky would not attend the Alaska meeting with Putin, saying "he wasn't part of it." Trump added that he ultimately intends to bring the Ukrainian and Russian presidents together, either with him present or not.

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Putin has publicly demanded a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership and a full withdrawal from partially occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts as a precondition for talks.

Zelensky has rejected recognizing the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territory and ceding additional land, calling for a ceasefire as the first step toward peace negotiations, a position supported by Kyiv's European allies.

Zelensky's spokesperson also said an online meeting of the "coalition of the willing" will take place later in the day. According to the German government, the meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. local time and will focus on support plans for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire.

According to Reuters, the sequence of talks on Aug. 13 will give Zelensky and European leaders a chance to present a united front before Trump's meeting with Putin. Ukraine hopes the call with Trump will serve, at least in part, as a counterweight to the Alaska summit.

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Zelensky said he has held over 30 consultations with international partners over the past few days to discuss perspectives on ending the war.

"Pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a just peace. Ukraine's and our partners' experience must be used to prevent deception by Russia," he said on X.

"At present, there is no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war. Our coordinated efforts and joint actions  of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and all countries that seek peace  can definitely compel Russia to make peace."

Five undisclosed senior European officials told Reuters that they "see a risk" of an unfavourable deal for Europe and Ukraine's security at the Aug. 15 meeting.

Read also: Trumps land-swapping ideas dead on arrival for Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Security measures have been intensified at the New Delhi Railway Station ahead of the Independence Day celebrations, with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel conducting round-the-clock patrolling alongside their dog squad. Inspector RPF and in charge of New Delhi Railway Station, Yashwant Singh, said the force is maintaining a high alert in view of Independence Day. Singh said, "We are on high alert in view of Independence Day. Security personnel are deployed at all entry-exit gates, and luggage is being thoroughly checked." He said additional staff, including dog squads, have been positioned at multiple locations and that the RPF is also focusing on public reassurance. "Additional security personnel have been deployed on platforms and other places. We are also taking the help of dog squads. We also conducted a flag march to create a sense of security among people," said the Inspector. Meanwhile, ahead of Independence Day, Delhi Police Additional CP Traffic, Dinesh Kumar Gupta, announced stringent traffic restrictions across the national capital. "Restrictions were imposed on our borders from 10 last night, under which we do not allow any commercial vehicles to enter Delhi. These restrictions will remain in place until the arrangements at Red Fort are over... We have restrictions on the ring road that goes towards Raj Ghat because there is movement of VIPs there...," he said. Last week, on Saturday, a high-level meeting was held at the Delhi Police Headquarters to discuss final stage preparations for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. According to the officials, two meetings at different levels were held at the Delhi Police headquarters. District DCPs, Special CP, Joint CP, Zonal incharge and Sector incharge of the Red Fort were present in the meeting, stated a senior police official. It was the final stage discussion on the multiple layers of security which would be in place at the Red Fort, along with the anti-drone systems and facial recognition technology. (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be in Berlin on Wednesday to personally take part in video conferences on the upcoming meeting in Alaska between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump.

Zelensky is expected in the German capital around midday, dpa learnt from government sources, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosting him at the Chancellery.

The video conferences with European leaders were initiated by Merz, with the aim of establishing a common position with Trump before his meeting on Friday with Putin.

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The plan is for Zelensky's European allies to talk at 2 pm (1200 GMT). Along with Merz, the expected participants include the leaders of France, Britain, Italy, Poland and Finland, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

About an hour later, a second discussion will be held with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance.

European governments fear the high-stakes TrumpPutin talks could lead to territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected. Trump has described the Alaska meeting as an effort to move toward ending the war, now in its fourth year.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday sent a warning to President Trump that Russian President Vladimir Putin is bluffing about being open to peace, ahead of a high-stakes summit between the U.S. and Russian leaders in Alaska set for Friday.

Zelensky made his remarks alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in remarks following a video conference call with Trump and other European leaders. They said the call was aimed at setting the course for this meeting in the right way.

Trump has floated land swaps between Russia and Ukraine as a path to peace, a possibility that Zelensky has resisted, drawing the U.S. presidents ire.

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I stress that any questions concerning our countrys territorial integrity cannot be discussed without regard for our people, for the will of our people and the Ukrainian constitution, Zelensky said Wednesday.

Merz said Ukraine is willing to discuss territorial questions, but only if a ceasefire is implemented on the current front line, throwing cold water on reported Russian demands for Ukrainian withdrawals as a condition to halt the fighting.

The two leaders spoke to reporters in Berlin. A translation of their remarks was provided by Sky News.

Zelensky said he told Trump to expect Putin to downplay the impact of sanctions on the Russian economy and its military as a way to deter additional penalties. Trump has held off imposing additional sanctions on Russia and blew past a deadline last week to impose sanctions, instead announcing the face-to-face with Putin.

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In reality, the sanctions are very effective, and theyre hurting the Russian military economy, Zelensky said.

Merz said that Zelensky and European leaders made clear to Trump that a ceasefire along the current front lines needs to be the starting point for broader peace talks.

Merz said there will be no discussion of legal recognition of Russian-occupied territory, rejecting another major pillar of Moscows demands.

Russia occupies an estimated 20 percent of Ukrainian territory but lays claim to four areas it only partially controls. Putin is reportedly calling for Ukraine to retreat from territory in the Donbas region that is not occupied by Russia.

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Zelensky said the leaders briefly talked about security guarantees for Ukraine and emphasized that Russia should not be given a veto to block Ukraine from joining NATO, another red line for Moscow.

Merz added that Trump largely shares these positions.

So if in Alaska theres no movement on the Russian side, then the US and the Europeans need to increase the pressure. President Trump knows this position. He shares them largely so I can say weve had a very good, constructive talk, he said.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have discussed strengthening Ukraine's air defence with two additional Patriot systems on Wednesday 13 August.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy is visiting Germany, where he held an "important and substantive meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz".

Quote: "We discussed our recent contacts with partners and further engagement with allies, the increase in defence support, Germany's participation in the new PURL [Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List] initiative, the strengthening of Ukraine's air defence with two additional Patriot systems and missiles for them, and reliable security guarantees."

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Details: After the meeting with Merz, Zelenskyy stressed that they share a common understanding: "As long as Russia takes no steps toward peace, we must continue to exert pressure on it and strengthen support for Ukraine."

Background:

The United States and NATO have launched a new mechanism for providing military aid to Ukraine, PURL, which foresees funding for US weapons through contributions from Alliance members.

On 1 August, Germany confirmed it would supply Ukraine with two Patriot systems. This was made possible through an agreement with the United States, whereby Berlin would be first in line to receive the newest systems in return for providing existing launchers and components to Ukraine.

Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany, in an interview with European Pravda, responded to a question about how many Patriot systems Ukraine expects from Germany by saying the number is currently changing.

"We initially asked the Germans to purchase two systems for us from the United States. After the Ramstein meeting, it was publicly announced that the partners were trying to find five systems. However, in reality, we need ten or more," he said.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his allies hope that the main topic of the Alaska meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin will be an immediate ceasefire.

Source: Zelenskyy during a briefing with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

Quote: "We talked about the Alaska meeting and we hope that an immediate ceasefire will be the central topic. The US president has said this repeatedly. He proposed that after the Alaska meeting, we will be in contact to discuss all the results, if any, and determine our next steps."

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Details: Answering questions from journalists, Zelenskyy once again stressed that under the Constitution of Ukraine any territorial issues cannot be discussed without Ukrainians.

Background:

Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on the afternoon of 13 August. Spiegel reported that the rather sudden visit had posed a challenge for local police.

Trump expects his meeting with Putin in Alaska on 15 August to be "constructive", but does not rule out negative outcomes.

Several countries have stressed, ahead of the meeting, that any decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine are unacceptable.

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(NewsNation)  President Donald Trump said he is feeling optimistic about his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Anchorage, Alaska, according to a senior White House official.

Trump rated a virtual emergency summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders as a 10 on Wednesday morning, calling it very, very friendly and describing it as preparation for the Alaska meeting.

Its going to be a very important meeting, but its setting the table for the second meeting, Trump said, though he expressed uncertainty about whether a follow-up meeting would occur.

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Zelenskyy details struggle of getting Ukrainian children back from Russia

White House officials provided conflicting accounts about whether Trump had considered inviting Zelenskyy to Alaska.

While one official told NewsNation over the weekend that Trump was considering including the Ukrainian president, another White House source said Tuesday that such an invitation was never under consideration and that the meeting was always planned as a bilateral discussion.

In preparation for Fridays bilateral talks, Trump has been meeting with key advisors including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Witkoff and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.

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Witkoff, who has been spearheading the negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine and has met with Putin a few times this year, is expected to attend.

Trump rates call with Zelenskyy a 10, warns of consequences for Russia

While Trump rated his call with Zelenskyy as a 10, very friendly, he said his meeting with Putin may not prove to be that productive.

Russia dragging out war, Zelenskyy says, ahead of Alaska summit

There is a very good chance that we are going to have a second meeting, which will be more productive than the first, Trump said. Because the first is, Im going to find out where we are and what we are doing.

Trump said he would call Zelenskyy following his meeting with Putin on Friday, adding that he would like to see a second meeting happen almost immediately.

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Its setting the table for the second meeting, Trump said. Now there may be no second meeting. Because if I feel it is not appropriate to have it, because I didnt get the answers that we have to have, then we are not going to have a second meeting.

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, and has described the summit as a feel-out meeting in which he can assess the Russian leaders intentions. Trump has suggested land swaps could play a role in bringing the war to an end.

Zelenskyy says Alaska meeting only a photo op for Putin

However, Zelenskyy has rejected the idea that his country would give up land to end the war. Zelenskyy said Ukraine will not give Russia any awards for what it has done and that Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier. Zelenskyy has said he believes Putin is not interested in negotiating during the meeting in Alaska, which will be Putins first trip to the United States since 2015.

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Trump told reporters there would be severe consequences for Russia if Putin does not agree to stop the war following the meeting on Friday but did not elaborate as to what those would be. When questioned about his ability to convince Putin to stop targeting civilians, Trump said no.

Ive had a lot of good conversations with him. Then I go home and I see that a rocket hit a nursing home or a rocket hit an apartment building and people are laying dead in the street, Trump said. So I guess the answer to that is no.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other European leaders are demanding Putin first agree to a ceasefire before any peace talks or land swaps between Moscow and Kyiv can take place, Politico reported. In addition, Merz and other leaders are requesting that, should any land swaps happen, they must be agreed to by Kyiv and that Russia should give Ukraine security guarantees to protect it from future attacks.

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BERLIN (AP)  President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after the two leaders meet for a summit later this week in Alaska.

Donald Trump made the comment in response to a question from a reporter after announcing this years Kennedy Center Honors recipients in Washington. He did not say what the consequences might be.

The remark came soon after Trump consulted with European leaders, who said the president assured them he would make a priority of trying to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine when he speaks with Putin on Friday in Anchorage.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined several of Kyiv's main allies in the virtual meeting with the U.S. leader, and Zelenskyy told the group that Putin is bluffing ahead of the planned summit about Russia's ability to occupy all of Ukraine and shake off sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said afterward that important decisions could be made in Alaska, but he stressed that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be protected.

Merz convened Wednesday's meeting in an attempt to make sure European and Ukrainian leaders are heard ahead of the summit.

He stressed that a ceasefire must come at the beginning of negotiations. He told reporters that Trump also wants to make this one of his priorities in the meeting with Putin.

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At a separate appearance in France, French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump was very clear" that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit.

Following Friday's summit, Macron added, Trump will seek a future trilateral meeting  one involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy. He said he hoped that it could be held in Europe "in a neutral country that is acceptable to all parties.

Merz, who described Wednesday's conversation as constructive and good, said the Europeans made clear that Ukraine must sit at the table as soon as there are follow-up meetings.

European allies have pushed for Ukraines involvement in any peace talks, fearful that discussions that exclude Kyiv could otherwise favor Moscow.

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The Ukrainian president, who traveled to Berlin to join the meeting alongside Merz, has repeatedly cast doubt on whether Putin would negotiate in good faith. He said Wednesday that he hoped an immediate ceasefire will be the central topic in Alaska, but also argued that Putin "definitely does not want peace.

Zelenskyy said Putin is trying to apply pressure ... on all sectors of the Ukrainian front in an attempt to show that Russia is capable of occupying all of Ukraine. Putin is also bluffing that sanctions do not matter to him and are ineffective," he added. In reality, sanctions are very helpful and are hitting Russias war economy hard.

The stakes for Europe

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year, describing Friday's summit as "a feel-out meeting where he can assess the Russian leader's intentions.

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Yet Trump has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He has also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and the president was dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace. Trump said that following Friday's summit, a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders could be arranged, or that it could also be a meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy and me.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the European Union, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

The overarching fear of many European countries is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

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Merz said that if there is no movement on the Russian side in Alaska, then the United States and the Europeans should and must increase the pressure on Moscow.

Land concessions a non-starter for Kyiv

Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the Ukrainian leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not give up any territory it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focused on ending the war have not addressed key Ukrainian demands, including security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensuring that Europe is included in negotiations.

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Three weeks after Trump returned to office, his administration took the leverage of Ukraines NATO membership off the table  something Putin has demanded  and signaled that the EU and Ukraine must handle security in Europe now while America focuses its attention elsewhere.

Senior EU officials believe Trump may be satisfied with simply securing a ceasefire in Ukraine and that he is probably more interested in broader U.S. interests and great power politics, aiming to ramp up business with Russia and rehabilitate Putin.

Russian advances in Donbas

Russian forces on the ground in Ukraine have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donbas region that comprises Ukraines eastern industrial heartland, which Putin has long coveted.

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Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles have said Ukraine's ability to fend off those advances could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit and could complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

___

Corbet reported from Paris. Associated Press writers Annie Ma in Washington, Lorne Cook in Brussels, Samya Kullab in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Zohran Mamdani has linked Andrew Cuomo, his New York mayoral rival, to the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Mr Mamdani, the Democratic socialist candidate, called on the former New York governor to release the Cuomo list in a 90-second attack video.

He accused Mr Cuomo of conducting vague business dealings and urged the politician to disclose the names of clients who had paid for his services.

The race for Gracie Mansion has in recent weeks descended into something of a mudslinging match between the two candidates, with both politicians launching personal attacks.

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In the campaign clip shared on Tuesday, Mr Mamdani called on Mr Cuomo to release the list of clients who have worked with his consulting firm Innovative Strategies LLC.

Mr Mamdani, who won the support of swathes of New Yorkers with an impressive social media campaign, also claimed Mr Cuomo previously worked on a luxury marina project in Puerto Rico with Andrew Farkas, whose former business partners include Epstein.

Mr Mamdani also mentioned a string of reports about Mr Cuomos firm, including allegations he had worked for a cryptocurrency exchange based in the Seychelles that eventually pleaded guilty to operating illegally in the US, as well as that Mr Cuomo did not initially disclose $2.6 million in stock options from a nuclear company to the New York City Conflicts of Interest Board.

Playing on the furore of the so-called Epstein list, Mr Mamdani said: Habibi, release your client list.

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Habibi is a common pet name used in Arabic cultures.

Responding to the video on X, Mr Cuomo shared a clip of Mr Mamdani, 33, saying he lives in a $2,300-a-month rent-controlled flat in Astoria, Queens.

Mr Cuomo, 67, is running as an independent candidate, having re-entered the race after he was trounced by Mr Mamdani in the Democratic primary.

Andrew Cuomo has been trailing Zohran Mamdani in the polls - Sarah Yensel/EPA/Shutterstock

In recent days he has attacked the socialist, who earns $142,000 as a state assemblyman, for occupying the affordable one-bedroom apartment, claiming it should go to a family more in need.

A recent poll put Mr Mamdani 19 points ahead of Mr Cuomo, his closest competitor in the five-man mayoral race.

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A Siena College poll of 317 registered New York City voters put Mr Mamdani above Mr Cuomo by 44 per cent to 25 per cent.

Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, 71, trailed behind with 12 per cent, followed by incumbent mayor Eric Adams, 64, with seven per cent.

A representative for Mr Cuomo said the former governor didnt know Epstein but you can smell the desperation from conspiracy peddling Zohran seeping through your screen.

They said the project with Mr Farkas wasnt completed and Mr Cuomo was never paid. He said Mr Cuomos stock options were publicly disclosed in FCC filings and they corrected the city filings quickly after the issue was brought to their attention.

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Richard Azzopardi, a spokesman for Mr Cuomos campaign, said Mr Mamdanis claims were nothing more than a temper tantrum from an insecure child of privilege who knows his tenuous lead is slipping away.

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People in northern Colorado have been reporting sightings this month of wild rabbits with black horns and tentacles on their faces. The rabbits appeared to have black quills or black toothpicks and a scabbiesh-looking growth over their face, some Fort Collins residents told local outlet, 9News. Others have dubbed them Frankenstein rabbits.

These dark growths are most likely caused by a virus that tends to pop up in the summer in states like Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota, Kansas, Iowa and Texas.

The virus is Shope papilloma virus (SPV), which causes wartlike, waxy growths on a rabbits face and is spread through biting insects like fleas or ticks, Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), told Yahoo. The warts can start to look like horns or tentacles if they grow longer over time. The virus is found in cottontail rabbits, especially during the summer months, when there is higher rabbit density and insect activity. While CPW has received around a dozen reports of sightings over the last week, Van Hoose speculates that there probably arent that many cases of SPV, but rather, many people are likely seeing the same group of infected rabbits.

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"Most infected cottontails can survive the viral infection, after which the growths will go away," CPW says on its website.

There is no risk of virus transmission to humans or other animals, though the CPW recommends that humans and pets should still stay away from and not interact with infected rabbits if they cross paths. However, the CPW also notes that domestic rabbits, if they are housed outside, could contract the virus from infected insects or rabbits.

What to do if you spot a rabbit with SPV

A cottontail rabbit with SPV growths, photographed in Minnesota. (Education Images/Getty Images)

Rabbits remain mostly healthy after contracting SPV, even if the growths get very long and start to look like horns, which is why the CPW does not recommend euthanizing the infected rabbits.

If someone sees a rabbit with the black tumors on its head or neck it is not a concern for Animal Control, Julie Lindstrom, a supervisor at Sioux Falls Police Animal Control, told Keloland, a South Dakota news outlet. There is no rehabilitation for wild rabbits with this disease.

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SPV is only harmful when the growths start to interfere with a rabbits ability to eat or drink, which does not happen in every case. A person may be able to spot if this is a problem if they notice the rabbit doesnt seem able to hop properly, Lindstrom said.

If you find a dead rabbit on your property, regardless of whether it is visibly infected or not, Lindstrom noted that it is safe to wear gloves and handle the animal yourself if you feel comfortable.
Frosted sugar cookies sold at Target stores across the United States have been recalled because they may contain pieces of wood.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a recall for 803 cases of Favorite Day Bakery frosted sugar cookies sold at Target stores in 20 states and Washington, D.C. Favorite Day is a private label brand sold at Target.

The voluntary recall was initiated on July 22, 2025, by Give and Go Prepared Foods Corp in Etobicoke, Canada, which prepared the affected bakery items. Target said it has removed all of the impacted cookies from its store shelves and online, according to a statement sent to NBC Chicago. As of Aug. 14, Target does not have the recall listed on its website.

How can I identify which specific cookies are recalled?

The affected Favorite Day Bakery frosted sugar cookies are the 10-count packages (Net wt. 13.5 oz.) with lot number 25195 and UPC code 85239-41250 3.

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Best By Date can vary as they are applied by retailer when removed from freezer, the FDA indicates in the recall.

Has anyone gotten sick from the cookies?

No illnesses have been reported yet. However, the FDA classified the recall as Class II, which means eating the contaminated cookies may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.

Where are the Target stores that sold the affected cookies?

The FDA says the affected cookies were distributed to Target stores in the following states and D.C.:

Connecticut

Delaware

Illinois

Indiana

Kentucky

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Missouri

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New York

North Carolina

Ohio

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Tennessee

Vermont

Virginia

Washington, D.C.

I bought the cookies that were recalled. What should I do?

Customers who purchased the affected frosted sugar cookies can get a full refund by bringing them to their nearest Target store or by calling Target guest relations at 1-800-440-0680.
A Jaipur Court on Wednesday granted 2-day remand of Mahendra Prasad, manager of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Jaisalmer guest house, over spying for Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). He was produced before the court today. Rajasthan CID Intelligence arrested the 32-year-old contractual manager near the Chandan Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, on charges of espionage for Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI. Explaining the custody request and allegations against the accused, Inspector Vinod Kumar said the police had sought and received court approval for remand. "Earlier, we requested a 2-day PC remand, which the court has approved," said Kumar. He added that the accused was in contact with operatives of Pakistan's Intelligence Agency via social media, allegedly lured with money, and passed on sensitive details. Prasad is suspected of transmitting sensitive information about military installations, movement, and identities of DRDO specialists and visiting military officers to Pakistani handlers. He allegedly shared this information via his mobile phone after photographing movements, testing operations, and vehicle entries. Kumar said, "He has been in contact with Pakistan's Intelligence Agency via social media. He was tempted with money and was sharing strategically important information, including details about scientists staying at the DRDO guest house and missile tests conducted in Chandan, with a foreign agent managed by Pakistan." Earlier on Tuesday, Inspector General of Police CID (Security), Rajasthan, Jaipur, Dr. Vishnukant, said that keeping in mind the upcoming state-level Independence Day celebrations, Rajasthan CID Intelligence is constantly monitoring the possible anti-national and subversive activities carried out by foreign agents in the state. During this surveillance, it was learnt that Mahendra Prasad, a resident of Palyun, Almora, Uttarakhand, who is working as a contractual manager at DRDO Guest House Chandan Field Firing Range Jaisalmer, is in contact with Pakistani intelligence agency through social media and is providing confidential information related to the movement of DRDO scientists and Indian Army officers who come to Firing Range for missile and other weapons testing to Pakistan handlers. The suspect, Mahendra Prasad, was jointly interrogated by various intelligence agencies at the Central Interrogation Centre, Jaipur and his mobile phone was technically tested. He was found to be providing sensitive information related to DRDO and the Indian Army to Pakistan handlers. A case was registered against Mahendra Prasad, son of Chaniram, age 32 years, on August 12 under the Official Secrets Act 1923, and he was arrested by CID Intelligence, Rajasthan, on charges of espionage. (ANI)
Some major U.S. airlines are allowing passengers traveling to, from or through specific airports in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic this week to change their flights free of charge due to expected delays from forecasted weather conditions.

A large area of warm and moist air already present across the eastern U.S and into [the] Deep South will be an ingredient for scattered showers and thunderstorms that are expected to be most active from late afternoon into the evening hours, the National Weather Service said in a Wednesday update. Heavy rain can be expected to accompany the stronger storms through the next couple of days in these areas.

As of 1 p.m. ET Wednesday, there were over 2,500 total flight delays, and nearly 500 were canceled, flying into, within or out of the U.S., according to data from FlightAware.

NOAA

Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest airlines issued travel advisories on Wednesday, alerting passengers that their flights in and out of certain hubs could be delayed, diverted or canceled and offered customers the opportunity to change their flights at no extra cost.

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Travelers can monitor their flight status through their airlines app, or they can enter their flight information into FlightAware to see if its on time or delayed.

Heres what else to know for each of those airlines:

Delta

The airline issued a travel advisory on Aug. 13 for flights traveling to, from and through the following cities:

Baltimore, Md. (BWI)

Boston, Mass. (BOS)

Newark, N.J. (EWR)

New York, N.Y. (JFK)

New York, N.Y. (LGA)

Philadelphia, Pa. (PHL)

Washington D.C.  Dulles (IAD)

Washington D.C.  Reagan (DCA)

White Plains, N.Y. (HPN)

Delta passengers who were booked to fly on Wednesday, Aug. 13 or Thursday, Aug. 14, can rebook their flight at no charge on or before Saturday, Aug. 16.

JetBlue

The airline issued a travel advisory for the following five New York metro airports for passengers traveling on Wednesday, Aug. 13:

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Islip/Long Island, N.Y. (ISP)

New York, N.Y. (JFK)

New York, N.Y. (LGA)

Newark, N.J. (EWR)

Westchester County, N.Y. (HPN)

JetBlue is allowing ticket holders who booked their flight on or before Tues, Aug. 12 to reschedule their flights for free through Saturday, Aug. 16.

Southwest

The airline issued a travel advisory warning that weather-related disruptions could affect flights at these 12 East Coast airports from Wednesday, Aug. 13, through Thursday, Aug. 14:

Albany, N.Y. (ALB)

Baltimore/Washington, Md. (BWI)

Boston (Logan), Mass. (BOS)

Hartford, Conn. (BDL)

Long Island/Islip, N.Y. (ISP)

Manchester, N.H. (MHT)

New York (LaGuardia), N.Y. (LGA)

Philadelphia, Pa. (PHL)

Portland, Maine (PWM)

Providence, R.I. (PVD)

Washington D.C.  Dulles (IAD)

Washington D.C.  Reagan (DCA)

Customers holding reservations to, from, or through the city(s) listed above on the corresponding date(s) who want to alter their travel plans may rebook or travel standby (within 14 days of their original date of travel between the original city pairs and in accordance with our accommodation procedures) without paying additional charges, Southwest said.
Scores of students from Delhi University's 2025 batch have been marked 'Absent' or as 'Essential Repeat' (ER) in one or more subjects in their final mark sheets, a situation many say is impacting their plans for jobs and higher studies. While students allege negligence in result processing, colleges and the university administration maintain that the discrepancies are due to technical glitches and are being rectified on a priority basis. Several students told ANI that they have been wrongly marked absent in theory papers despite appearing for exams, or flagged as ER due to missing internal assessment marks. Many say that repeated complaints to the university have gone unanswered. Arpit Pathak, who was pursuing BCom from Aryabhatta College, said his results for the first four semesters were revised to 'pass' earlier, but in the final marksheet, he was again marked ER in his Hindi paper (3rd semester). Essential Repeat means the student must reappear for the exam in that subject. "I reached out to my college and the university, submitted all documents, but the final marksheet still shows ER. This is a mistake on their part. I had to drop this year and cannot apply for my MBA in Mumbai. This has completely derailed my plans and caused a lot of stress," Pathak said. While no official figure on the number of affected students was provided by the university, officials said the process of verification and correction is underway. Another student from Ramanujan College, pursuing a BA Programme, said she was marked ER in two subjects of the fifth semester -- Introductory Development Economics and Economy, State and Society. In one paper, her internal marks were missing, while in the other, she was marked absent in the theory exam despite appearing for it. "I have written to both the college and the university. Because my marksheet shows ER, I cannot apply for my master's or even for jobs. No employer will consider me without a complete result," she said on condition of anonymity. "There are hundreds of students in the university like me who are facing this issue. In my course, there are over 7 and 8 students I know who have faced this issue," the 21-year-old added. Ramanujan College Principal Rasal Singh admitted that nearly 100 students from the college have been marked ER due to missing internal assessment marks. "There are discrepancies in results that students are facing, and this is the largest such issue the colleges have encountered. We have already approached the university and are providing them with the necessary supporting documents to rectify the mark sheets," Singh told ANI. When asked about students marked absent in theory despite appearing, Singh said, "We are examining all such cases and providing the required proof. We do not want a student to lose an academic year, so we are ready to assist them in every possible way." Aryabhatta College Principal Manoj Singh, who is also chairman of the DU Principals' Association, said many colleges are facing this issue due to a technical issue after shifting to the Samarth portal for result processing. "The system is good and maintains the sanctity of evaluation and merit, but adapting to it takes time. Uploading marks and data has encountered technical issues, and in some instances, we are manually collating and uploading data to the portal for university evaluation. The process is cumbersome, but we are in constant discussion with the exam department to ensure rectification at the earliest," he said. Controller of Examinations Dr. Gurpreet Tuteja said the university has sought data from colleges to address cases where internal marks are missing or discrepancies have been reported. "We have communicated with the colleges to provide us with the data so that the marksheets can be rectified. We are working on it. We don't want any student to suffer," Tuteja told ANI. Khushi Bhatia, a Ramanujan College student, said she had planned to appear for the government exam this year but was unable to do so because her mark sheet shows ER in two subjects. "I will now have to wait another year and work in the meantime. This has set me back significantly," she said. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) President of Delhi unit, Saurabh Bharadwaj, on Wednesday targeted the Election Commission of India, accusing it of behaving like "Ulta Chor Kotwal Ko Daate," a Hindi phrase implying that the accused is shifting the blame to the accuser. His remarks came after RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav alleged that the Election Commission is working with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to manipulate the voter list in Bihar by issuing two Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers to its leaders and workers. Speaking to ANI, the AAP leader said, "The way the Election Commission is behaving right now is like 'the thief scolding the policeman.' Those who until now thought that the Election Commission was impartial, now feel that their behaviour is as if they are the youth wing of some political party. We, Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi, have written several letters to the Election Commission with complaints, but what did the Election Commission do? Why was no action taken..." Earlier today, Tejashwi Yadav alleged that the ECI is working with the Bharatiya Janata Party to manipulate the voter list in Bihar by issuing two Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers to its leaders and workers. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, Yadav stated, "Before we had talked about Bihar's deputy chief minister Vijay Sinha. Now you call it a crime, mistake, or an expose, we had said it before too, but today I want to tell you that EC is helping the BJP, and cutting the votes of the Opposition. The people of the BJP are being given not one, but two EPIC numbers for themselves, in one Vidhan Sabha only." "We are exposing one more thing. Muzzafapur's mayor, a BJP leader, named Nirmala Devi, she has two EPIC IDs in the same vidhan sabha. In that, too, they are different. Not only this, but Nirmala Devi has two brother-in-laws, they also have two EPIC numbers," he added. The RJD leader further alleged that names of people from other states were being added to Bihar's voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) ahead of the assembly elections. "Now the people of Gujarat are becoming voters of Bihar. Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya, who is in charge of the BJP, has become a voter of Patna. He cast his last vote in Gujarat in 2024, but he is still a voter of Patna. He had his name deleted in Gujarat, but it's worth noting that it hasn't been five years, and you started changing places and voting. When the Bihar elections are over, then where will he go after getting his name deleted?" Yadav alleged. He claimed that in earlier elections, the BJP used agencies such as the CBI, ED and Income Tax department against the Opposition, but when those methods became less effective, the Election Commission was "brought forward." He also alleged that "vote chori" took place in the 2020 Bihar elections. (ANI)
I started using the OCaml language regularly around 2012, and since then, my interest and enthusiasm for this language have only grown. It has become my preferred choice for almost all my personal projects, and it has also influenced my professional choices. Since 2014, I have been actively participating in public conferences dedicated to programming and software development, where I often express my enthusiasm for OCaml in ways that may be a bit over the top (but always passionate). This has earned me, in a friendly way, the nickname OCaml evangelist  a title that, I admit, I find very flattering. Moreover, Im not alone in thinking this. Despite the common misconception that OCaml wouldnt be a pragmatic choice for industry, major companies such as Meta , Microsoft , Ahref , Tarides , OCamlPro , Bloomberg , Docker , Janestreet , Citrix , Tezos , and many others actively use it.

In this opinion piece, I will try to briefly share my encounter with the language and list its advantages  organized into several sections covering the language itself, its ecosystem, and its community. I will also attempt to debunk some popular myths (or misconceptions) found on the Internet. For the sake of transparency, it is important to note that, at the time of writing, my professional work involves working for and on the OCaml ecosystem. However, readers who have followed me for several years can attest that I was promoting the language long before I was paid to work on the OCaml ecosystem, sometimes rather immoderately.

Foreword

First, this article will explain why I personally believe that OCaml is a relevant choice in many contexts. My goal is not specifically to convince youalthough that would be a very welcome side effect  and its quite likely that many of the arguments I present will also apply to other languages!

Also, very often, when I suggest OCaml to people who want to explore new languages or try out solutions written in OCaml, Im kindly told that Im always promoting OCaml. Its amusing to notice that when the suggestions involve languages adopted by default, like JavaScript, or more recent ones like Rust or Go, they tend to trigger fewer reactions. This is probably because people implicitly assume that proposing a lesser-known language leans toward irrationality and personal preference. From my point of view, suggesting OCaml is, in many cases where fine-grained memory control is not needed, just as relevant as suggesting Rust (and probably more so).

To wrap up this preface, many people first encountered OCaml (or Caml Light) during their undergraduate studies or in preparatory classes, often using it in contexts far removed from industry. As for me, I started getting interested in OCaml much earlier, thanks to the Site du Zero, where a small community of functional programming enthusiasts promoted less mainstream languages like OCaml, Erlang, and Haskell. My interaction with OCaml at university was just a bonus.

Other resources

Im not the first to document the reasons for choosing OCaml. There are many other resources that, in my opinion, are also worth checking out, and they show that OCaml users are generally very satisfied  so much so that theyre motivated to share how and why we chose the language as our main technology:

There are probably other resources and testimonials, notably on the official website, which features both industrial and academic case studies. There are also articles expressing the frustration OCaml can cause. Im aware that OCaml is not perfectnor do I believe any technology is perfect. Ill likely refer to some of these articles (implicitly or explicitly) in the section on myths and in the conclusion, where Ill try to explain in which contexts I dont find OCaml to be a relevant choice.

OCaml as a language

Before diving into the features offered by the language, Id like to start with a point that I believe is essential. OCaml is a programming language that originated from research and is used by industrial users. This duality is important because it provides the language with two key advantages:

Guidance on desirable features as interesting language concepts, supported by advanced research. For example, to my knowledge, OCaml is the first mainstream language to offer native support for user-defined effects, which is the result of cutting-edge research, illustrated by numerous publications.

Guidance on desirable features as tools for industrialization, also backed by research and motivated by practical use cases. For instance, recently, Jane Street, a major industrial OCaml user, proposed the integration of affine sessions, enabling linear resource management (somewhat Rust-like).

This intertwining of industrial and academic motivations allows OCaml to offer a collection of solid, useful, and well-defined features. In other words, OCaml is a living language, and since Ive been using it, Ive witnessed many developments and additions that I consider highly desirable and that debunk a common assertion against OCaml: the language is only useful for theory or for implementing Coq/Rocq.

Although this was historically true, the motivations provided by industrial users justify the label "An industrial-strength functional programming language with an emphasis on expressiveness and safety." The opening keynote of the OCaml Workshop 2021 by Xavier Leroy, titled "25 Years Of OCaml," presents an exhaustive timeline of OCamls continuous design, showing the various phases of evolution the language has undergone.

In broad terms, OCaml is a programming language from the ML family, high-level (here, meaning it features garbage collection), statically typed (types are checked at compile time with no implicit conversions), with type inference (also called type synthesis), allowing the compiler to deduce the type of an expression in most cases. This enables programming in both functional and imperative styles.

OCaml also provides an object-oriented programming model and a very rich module system. The language has two compilation schemes: ocamlc , which compiles to a bytecode executable by a virtual machine (portable and efficient), and ocamlopt , which compiles to native machine code (runnable on a wide variety of architectures).

Moreover, OCaml allows conversion of its bytecode to JavaScript using Js_of_ocaml, enabling very fast interoperability within the OCaml ecosystem (which I use extensively on this website). The same approach is used to produce WebAssembly. For deeper interoperability with the JavaScript ecosystem, Melange takes a somewhat different approach than Js_of_ocaml to generate robust JavaScript.

OCaml is a highly versatile language, and I will now try to present the features and strengths that make it  for me  an ideal tool for building both personal and professional projects, starting with a brief detour into static typing.

On static type checking

When I was preparing, with Bruno, the episode of If This Then Dev dedicated to OCaml  which, in the end, was recorded with Didier  he asked me a question that I found surprising:

Is it really worth bothering with types when working on a personal project quickly? Even though I can perfectly see the value for production code, for a personal project it seems like a waste of time to me.

I think there are two main angles to answer this. The first, and most obvious, is that, in principle, I dont see why a personal project should be any less disciplined than a professional one. When I write software for myself, I could indeed get away with ignoring the corner cases of my implementation. Sure, thats possible. But thats probably not what I actually want to do. So, if a language and its compiler let me set up safety nets that force me to account for all the cases in my software, I take them  just like writing unit tests makes development easier, and I dont see them as a constraint.

But beyond considerations of hygiene in a personal project, I think the negative reputation of static type checking usually stems from a bad experience. Indeed, in languages like C or Java, types are mostly a constraint that can be easily circumvented. In languages that place a strong emphasis on typing  like OCaml, Haskell, F#, Scala, or Rust  types act as safeguards. More importantly, in my view, types also serve as a tool for expressive design. Using them provides safety while also offering an incredibly rich, versatile, and concise way to describe data.

From my experience, even though its common to move from a poorly-typed (sorry, the temptation is too strong) to a dynamically typed language  I, for instance, happily transitioned from Java to Ruby  moving from a language with a rich type system, like OCaml or Haskell, makes switching to a dynamically typed language much harder. At present, I dont know anyone who has seriously used languages like OCaml or Haskell and was happy to return to languages with less sophisticated type systems (though an interesting project can sometimes justify such a technological regression).

This is not just a personal observation; static type checking is central to the broader debate about the evolution of programming languages. Historical languages evolve (or attempt to evolve) to integrate more type checking. For instance, Erlang, as early as the 1980s (before its compiler source was released), experimented with integrating a type system. Java, version by version, enhances features aimed at improving static type verification, such as incorporating sealed families.

Many languages are experimenting with type systems: Ruby with RBS, Crystal (a statically typed language heavily inspired by Ruby), Python with Mypy, Elixir (which revisits Erlangs past experiments, offering a viable gradual typing approach), and, of course, TypeScript, which has become widely adopted in the JavaScript community.

While all these initiatives are encouraging and clearly move in the right direction, for now, they primarily add safeguards but do not yet serve as expressive design tools.

When it comes to increasingly rich type systems, the White House recently published a report emphasizing the importance of memory safety in software design and endorsing the use of the Rust language (historically written in OCaml before becoming self-hosted) over C++, clearly showing that even official bodies (often considered outdated) highlight the value of rich type systems. Moreover, the response from Tarides, the company I work for at the time of writing this article, also presents compelling arguments in favor of using OCaml for building critical systems.

In conclusion, static type checking is really valuable and highly recommended, and its worth exploring languages with sophisticated type systems (like OCaml) and, why not, going even further by increasingly delving into formal methods.

Features of the language

Even though its very tempting to create a massive OCaml tutorial, the goal of this section is to present what makes OCaml, for me, a highly relevant choice for both learning and production. The advantages will therefore be presented (and defended), but this is not a tutorial.

A multi-paradigm language

Nowadays, talking about multi-paradigm languages might seem unnecessary, since a large majority of programming languages favored by industry are already multi-paradigm. However, OCaml is a functional programming language that also supports imperative programming, modular programming, object-oriented programming, and, since version 5.0.0 , multi-core programming.

Just as Haskell is widely recognized in the functional programming world, its often assumed that adding imperative mechanisms to a language is a bad idea  especially if one is convinced of the benefits of the functional style. From my perspective, there are several perfectly legitimate reasons to use imperative programming when the language allows it:

Readability of an implementation. Sometimes, avoiding mutability requires adding extra plumbing (for example, a State Monad), which can make reading and understanding a program more cumbersome.

Performance. Adding such plumbing can introduce overhead, making the execution of implementations more costly.

Ease of use. A few years ago, Arthur Guillon ceremoniously told me that "OCaml is a lambda calculus that trivially allows effects," which makes it very effective for tasks like debugging, where printing messages to standard output is simple. While I acknowledge that this is probably not the best way to implement logging, it undeniably provides a comfortable user experience and enables rapid prototyping.

In general, OCaml's dual nature  both imperative and functional  allows you to leverage the advantages of both paradigms in different situations and, of course, to combine them. For example, hidding a module's imperative nature behind a functional API.

Syntax a la ML

Although syntax is often considered a minor detail, languages in the ML family have a concise, expressive, and readable syntax. Even though this family of syntax can be confusing when coming from more conventional, C-inspired syntax, one gets used to it fairly quickly and can soon realize that it is very consistent and relatively unambiguous. However, if OCamls syntax is problematic for you, dont hesitate to look into ReasonML, an alternative syntax that uses braces.

Closely related to research

OCaml is a language that originates from French research, as shown by the history of Caml, primarily designed to implement the proof assistant Coq/Rocq. This origin  and the initial motivations, implementing Coq while also serving as a programming language taught in preparatory classescreates a certain duality:

The core features were not initially designed with industry in mind. However, this assertion is no longer true, primarily because OCaml has become a language used in industrial contexts. While in the languages genesis, there were more tools for building a language itself (facilitating the teaching of compiler mechanisms) than tools for building "enterprise" applications, projects from the community motivated by industrial use have enriched the language and its ecosystem, making it a versatile tool suitable for industry. For example, creating a binding with the Tk library led to the integration in the language of named arguments, optional arguments, and polymorphic variants.

The set of paradigms and language features are carefully thought out and well-theorized. Generally, the integration of a feature (or collection of features) results from meticulous research, based on solid theoretical foundations and reviewed by numerous experts in the field (often recognized by the scientific community). This rigor can sometimes slow the introduction of new features but generally ensures their proper functioning and theoretical stability.

This theoretical rigor, stemming from OCamls undeniable closeness to the research world, means that its various aspects are well documented, illustrated by a large number of publications, and exhibit predictable behavior. From my point of view, this makes OCaml a very wise choice for understanding these different features in depth. For example, I believe OCaml has allowed me to much better understand certain traits or paradigms of programming languages.

Moreover, a great example of how meticulous and rigorous research can support the integration of a language feature is OCamls implementation of an object model. Indeed, the thesis of Jerome Vouillon, Design and Implementation of an Extension of the ML Language with Objects, proposes an innovative object model that integrates very well with type inference by separating the notions of inheritance and subtyping  inheritance being a syntactic notion and subtyping a semantic notion  using row polymorphism to describe structural subtyping relationships, as opposed to nominal subtyping, used by Java, C#, and most popular OOP languages. OCamls object model fully adheres to the SOLID principles without any additional ceremony.

Algebraic types

Ive been quite expansive about the reasons why I value a language with static type checking. However, in my experience, for a statically typed language to be truly usable, the presence of algebraic types is necessary:

Product types : These allow grouping values of heterogeneous types (thus creating a conjunction of heterogeneous types). They are generally present in all mainstream languages (for example, objects, which introduce additional concepts, or tuples and records).

Sum types : These allow constructing a disjunction of heterogeneous value types, with different cases indexed by constructors. While some special cases of sums exist in mainstream languageslike booleans (which are a disjunction of two cases: true and false , i.e., two parameterless constructors)  support for full sum types is often cumbersome in popular languages. For example, Kotlin and Java (and de facto C#) use a construct associated with inheritance relations called sealing. The integration of dedicated sum type syntax also took some time in Scala, which, prior to recent versions, relied on sealed families, making the expression of sums verbose and, in my view, harder to reason about.

Exponential types: These allow describing functions that express types for higher-order functions (functions that can be passed as arguments or returned as results).

Coupled with pattern matching and parametric polymorphism (or generics), an algebraic type system is an incredibly expressive tool for describing data structures, the state machine of a program, or modeling a business domain with an appropriate cardinality. Even in the 21st century, where products and exponentials are common, when I use very popular languages, I am often frustrated by the lack of sum types, which forces me to use verbose encodings (increasing the domains cardinality). This is particularly noticeable when working with Go and TypeScript.

The appeal of this triad is, in fact, probably one of the reasons (combined with a very ergonomic ecosystem and toolchain) behind the success of Rust. In short, if you intend to build a new programming language with static type checking, please, do not hesitate to include algebraic types!

Finally, there are aspects of OCaml's type system that I havent covered, but which probably deserve dedicated articles. For example, generalized algebraic data types (GADTs), which allow expressing even more invariants.

Modular programming and module language

OCaml, through its ancestor Caml Light, was among the first languages to offer a module system, similar to Standard ML, providing encapsulation and abstraction while supporting separate compilation, in the style of Modula-2. OCamls module system is a fundamental aspect of the language, although its complexity can be intimidating. Indeed, in OCaml, it is possible to clearly distinguish the interface (the signature) from the implementation (the structure), thus facilitating encapsulation and documentation, while also allowing function application within the module language.

I find it particularly difficult to address the topic of modules briefly (its a subject Ive wanted to explore on my blog for years). However, here is a list of advantages I see in OCamls highly modular approach:

Separate compilation : A key feature that allows efficient compilation of large programs by identifying junction points to optimize parallel and incremental compilation. This approach is leveraged by dune, the recommended build system for OCaml.

Systematic separation of implementation and interface : Offers several significant advantages, including encapsulation and placing documentation in the interface. In my programming workflow, I find this very convenient because I can implement my structure (the modules implementation) while being guided by type inference and specify its API in the signature (the modules interface), deciding on the display order and providing clear documentation that doesnt pollute the implementation space. Additionally, encapsulation allows me to freely define intermediate types inside the structure, for example, to represent a programs state machine, without letting it escape.

A powerful tool for describing data structures : By abstracting types (hiding their implementation) and combining this with encapsulation, it is possible to describe data structures that maintain invariants . This is why it is common to have a structure/signature pair for each data structure, hiding implementation details through abstraction and encapsulation.

Reusability and sharing : Just as it is possible to describe types in the value language (as seen with algebraic types), it is also possible to describe types in the module language, called translucent signatures , which allow defining the type of a signature without associating it with a structure. These signatures are structurally typed, and coupled with functors (functions in the module language), it is possible to share behavior between modules.

Advanced forms of polymorphism: Including Higher Kinded Polymorphism, available in the module language. In broad terms, you can describe "generics parameterized by generics". This limitation in languages like F# or Java often motivates the use of heavy encodings to work around the lack.

The theory behind module languages in ML-family languages is a vast subject, still evolving, and very difficult to summarize in a single paragraph. However, the introduction of Derek Dreyers thesis, Understanding and Evolving the ML Module System, provides an excellent explanation of the purpose and use of modules, illustrated with many examples. I hope to take the time in the coming weeks or months to write more extensively about the module language than I have already attempted, because it could be very educational and, in my view, the topic is extremely interesting!

Dependency injection and inversion

Briefly touching on object-oriented programming in OCaml, I mentioned that OCaml allows, through its language features, a straightforward way to meet the prerequisites for writing SOLID code. The final point Id like to emphasize is the ease of dependency inversion, achievable through language-provided features. In broad terms, the principle of dependency inversion involves describing dependency lattices using abstractions rather than implementations. This way, dependencies can be injected afterward  making context changes, for example in unit testing, trivially implementable.

OCaml provides (at least) two tools that facilitate this inversion, each useful in different contexts. We will draw inspiration from the very popular teletype example to show how to invert dependencies:

let program () = let () = print_endline " Hello World " in let () = print_endline " What is your name? " in let name = read_line () in print_endline ( " Hello " ^ name )

Even if it might not seem obvious, this program depends on concrete implementations  namely, interactions with standard input and output.

Through modules

The most straightforward approach is to use modules, either as first-class values or by construction, using functors. The duality between signatures and structures makes dependency inversion obvious. For example, to revisit our example, heres how, using first-class modules, it becomes very easy to depend on an abstract set of interactions. We start by describing the abstract representation of possible interactions:

module type IO = sig val print_endline : string -> unit val read_line : unit -> string end

We can now expect our program function to take a module of type IO as an argument (well call this a handler) and use the functions exported by the module, which in our example is named Handler :

let program ( module Handler : IO ) = let () = Handler . print_endline " Hello World " in let () = Handler . print_endline " What is your name? " in let name = Handler . read_line () in Handler . print_endline ( " Hello " ^ name )

For example, in the context of unit testing, its possible to provide an implementation that logs all the operations called (and mocks the read_line call to fix the returned result). This makes expressing unit tests that verify business logic very easy to implement.

Passing a concrete implementation as an argument to our function amounts to interpreting the program.

Through user-defined effects

OCaml version 5 arrived with a host of new features. However, the biggest advancement is the complete redesign of the OCaml runtime to support multi-core execution. There are several ways to describe concurrent algorithms  for example, using actors or channels. OCaml has chosen to rely on effects, which simplify the management of the program's control flow. In fact, OCaml allows users to define their own effects, logically called user-defined effects. While they are a powerful tool for describing concurrent programs, they also make it easier to inject dependencies when you want to maintain control, at the handler level, over the execution flow of a program.

Note: In my example, I am using an experimental syntax, just merged into the OCaml main branch, which will likely be available in version 5.3.0 of the language.

As with our previous improvement, we first need to describe the set of operations that can be performed. We use the effect construct:

effect Print_endline : string -> unit effect Read_line : unit -> string

Next, we can write our program in a direct style, by producing effects:

let program () = let () = Effect . perform ( Print_endline " Hello World " ) in let () = Effect . perform ( Print_endline " What is your name? " ) in let name = Effect . perform ( Read_line () ) in Effect . perform ( Print_endline ( " Hello " ^ name ) )

It is then possible to interpret our program afterward, using a construction similar to pattern matching, to give a specific meaning to each effect.

Currently, it should be noted that effect propagation is not tracked by the type system. However, this is an experimental feature, which is used extensively in the new version of YOCaml. I am aware that resources are being devoted to developing an efficient type system to track effect propagation!

In general, when I dont care about controlling the programs flow, or I dont need to add effects after the fact, I use modules. But in the case of YOCaml, the new effect system was leveraged to introduce effects dedicated to unit testing, allowing, for example, the mocking of time passing.

Once again, its really difficult not to go on at length about user-defined effects, which are a brand-new and very exciting feature of the language. Ill conclude by simply sharing two articles written by Arthur Wendling that explain the use of effects in a very pedagogical way, along with a comprehensive bibliography on the literature related to effect abstraction in functional programming:

Its worth noting that this inversion/injection could also be done using records or objects. However, my experience with OCaml suggests that approaches using modules or effects (when you want to manipulate the programs control flow) are often more straightforward and easier to reason about.

Regarding the future

OCaml is a constantly evolving language that changes with each version. In the section on dependency inversion, I briefly mentioned the recent inclusion of effects in the language to describe a multi-core runtime, reflecting the ongoing evolution of OCaml over the years. One can also note the integration of binding operators, which make the use of the triad Functors, Applicative Functors, and Monads more convenient  similar to computation expressions in F#.

Currently, many very exciting projects are underway to further improve the language:

We can also note the development of a hygienic macro system, the gradual integration of a staged metaprogramming system, and the implementation of an optimization back-end, reflecting OCamls strong activity in the innovation sector and making its development in the coming years very motivating and exciting!

Weaknesses

Even though Im convinced that OCaml is an excellent language, claiming it is perfect would probably be disingenuous  after all, nothing is perfect. Here are, in my opinion, a few points that cast a shadow on OCaml as a language:

Lack of ad-hoc polymorphism. Although it is possible to work around it, for example using local module openings, the absence of ad-hoc polymorphism (via type classes  as in Haskell, or traits/implicit objects  as in Rust and Scala, or canonical structures  as in Coq) can sometimes make certain situations tricky. Even though I tend to prefer explicit relationships, over the years Ive found several cases where this absence can be problematic: The inability to describe type parameter constraints on polymorphic functions, leading to polymorphic equality and comparison functions in the standard library, which has caused much debate and, for example, required specialized versions of arithmetic operators for different numeric representations ( int , int64 , float ). Risk of combinatorial explosion when describing many relationships between modules. This is why the Preface library proposes a somewhat complex modular decomposition. However, even though the arrival of implicit modules is probably not in the short-term roadmap, recent work on the module language, as discussed in the future of OCaml section, is promising.

Cumbersome interaction between the module language and the value language. The module language is a different language with its own type system. Whether this counts as a weakness is debatable, but this distinction can be intimidating. It comes from the fact that OCamls module system was a pioneer in module theory and predates more recent innovations (e.g., 1ML). In practice, besides being complex to grasp, certain parts of the language are hard to specify correctly, for example recursive modules.

A language comfortable for functional programming, but impure. While I consider impurity a feature, importing idioms from purely functional languages (e.g., Haskell) can cause difficulties related to type inference, such as the value restriction. Even though OCaml has relaxed this restriction, its implications on polymorphic function inference can still be intimidating  for very good reasons.

Syntax. Personally, I really like OCamls syntax and believe syntax should rarely be a major issue, but some choices can be confusing. For instance, type parameters prefix the type name: a list of a is written 'a list . Many of these choices aim to reduce syntactic ambiguity, and you get used to them quickly. However, coming from another language, some of these conventions may seem surprising.

I think these weaknesses are generally debatable (because they are often justified), but I completely understand that they can be unsettling. However, I believe they are not enough to make OCaml unusable and should not be a major barrier to getting started with OCaml! The benefit of having an improvable language is that it constantly offers a range of potential improvements, motivating work that can also benefit other languages. And, to be entirely honest, being aware of these rough edges, Ive more often found myself frustrated by the absence of language features that exist in OCaml in other languages, rather than complaining about these rough edges while writing OCaml itself. For these rough edges, there are usually workarounds (sometimes only partially satisfying, I admit) that allow one to work calmly and effectively.

To conclude on language

I have, in very broad strokes, outlined reasons why, in my opinion, learning OCaml is a very relevant choice. This language allows one to fundamentally understand certain very popular programming idioms (often poorly defined). Moreover, some aspects of the language perfectly serve industrial purposes, making good practices sometimes trivial to express! Much of this appeal can be experimented with in other languages, but OCaml's strongly multi-paradigm nature allows one to centralize this learning in a single language. To my knowledge, in the jungle of partially popular languages, only Scala seems to cover as many topics, although, from my point of view, its object model is, essentially for interoperability with other JVM languages, far less interesting.

Since the goal of this article is not to be a tutorial, I deliberately skimmed over certain concepts, modules and effects. I hardly mentioned objects, polymorphic variants, or generalized algebraic types. If these topics interest you, I encourage you to read in detail the excellent Using, Understanding, and Unraveling The OCaml Language by Didier Remy, along with the books I presented in the introduction, which is a goldmine for anyone wishing to deepen their knowledge of OCaml.

In conclusion, OCaml offers a diverse and rich set of language-level tools for learning programming, building industrial-grade programs that follow standards, as well as implementing complex data structures and category-theory-based abstractions such as a functional core, imperative traits, a rich and expressive inferred type system (allowing the expression of algebraic types and facilitating clear domain modeling), a module system for abstraction, reusability, and defining compilation units, an object model, the ability to express effects that can be propagated and interpreted a posteriori, and other advanced features. Even just to grasp advanced programming concepts, OCaml is an excellent candidate  which is why OCaml has been an obvious inspiration for many more recent languages, with Rust being a notable example.

OCaml as an ecosystem

Having an expressive language is very beneficial for building things (the phrasing is deliberately naive). However, in different contexts, both professional and personal, this is not enough:

In a professional context, it is obvious that if I want my team and I to be productive, it is probably not very relevant to have to build a whole tool stack before being able to start addressing the problem we are tasked with.

In a personal context, even though one could argue that building your technology stack is very educational, it changes the set of skills you actually want to develop. If, to build a small web application to get started with OCaml as a web language, I have to build my entire HTTP stack, it is very likely that OCaml is not the right choice. Rest assured, however, that OCaml has a rich tooling ecosystem for building web applications!

Thats why the features offered by the language are not a sufficient metric to describe its viability for building and maintaining projects. The ecosystem is also a very important factor. It is for these reasons that .NET and the JVM, through relatively less expressive (but improving) languages like Java and C#, are also so popular. To assess the relevance of an ecosystem, I think it is important to consider several criteria:

The relevance of the runtime (or compilation targets) for the project. Its likely that I wouldnt recommend OCaml for embedding in a tiny, exotic hardware  though, knowing nothing about low-level programming (because its not my field at all), I could be wrong.

Its platform . Is its entire toolchain complete and ergonomic? From my point of view, this includes a package manager, a build system, good editor support (agnostic as possible), a solid documentation generator, and a collection of additional tools, such as a formatter (and many others).

The relevance of the available libraries (and their level of maintenance and discoverability, which generally implies having a package manager) with particular consideration for their ergonomics. For example, if I dont have any cryptography primitives, I probably wouldnt choose this technology to build a blockchain. There is a whole class of problems that are very difficult to solve in isolation or in a professional context.

In this section, we will try to overview these different points to see if the OCaml ecosystem lives up to the language. I want to clarify that I am somewhat biased because I have been convinced of OCamls relevance since 2012, back when the ecosystem was drastically poorer. At that time, I tried to build projects by patching the gaps, which probably created a survivorship bias. Nowadays, thanks in part to industrial users, the OCaml ecosystem is much richer and more extensive, making it much easier to defend, although when some gaps still exist, the bad faith of the old user can resurface.

Compilation, runtimes, and additional targets

Since its inception, OCaml has had two compilation targets:

Native compilation, which produces highly efficient executables compiled for a specific architecture (and supports a large number of architectures). Moreover, whereas Windows was historically largely neglected, a special effort has been made to support it (also note the DkMl project, an independent initiative).

Compilation to bytecode (for a virtual machine), producing portable executables.

The presence of a virtual machine enabled the development of the venerable Js_of_OCaml, which allows transforming OCaml bytecode into JavaScript, making OCaml perfectly viable for developing applications in the browser as well as in the Node runtime, and it is extensively used for this website. Using a similar approach, WebAssembly support was made possible very recently through the Wasm_of_OCaml project. Supporting compilation to WASM for a language with a garbage collector was a serious challenge, but with the recent specification of interaction between WASM and garbage collectors, OCaml now has perfectly decent WebAssembly compilation (and many ambitious web projects, like Ocsigen, are beginning to support WASM natively).

Moreover, the Melange project (historically BuckleScript) offers a way to transpile  mapping the OCaml AST to the JavaScript AST  as an alternative for producing JavaScript. If I were to compare Js_of_OCaml and Melange, beyond the different underlying methods used to produce JavaScript (compiling to bytecode and then transforming that bytecode into JavaScript versus syntactic transformation from OCaml to JavaScript), I would say that Js_of_OCaml integrates better with the OCaml ecosystem and is therefore likely intended for OCaml developers who want to make their projects accessible from a browser  indeed, interaction with the existing JavaScript ecosystem can be more cumbersome. Melange fits better with the JavaScript ecosystem ( npm and co) and is therefore likely intended for JavaScript developers seeking to bring more safety to their JS projects (or an existing codebase).

Nowadays, it is common to find multi-backend languages like Idris or Nim. However, at the time, I was very impressed that OCaml could, from the moment I started using it, also compile to JavaScript. Back then, the only language I knew that offered multiple compilation targets was Haxe, which were so different (incidentally, Haxe is written in OCaml).

Indeed, in 2024, producing JavaScript has become standard, but the first traces of Js_of_OCaml date back to 2006, making OCaml a pioneer in the field!

A quick detour via MirageOS

In the lattice formed by the different OCaml execution and compilation contexts, having libraries that work well in the majority of contexts is a challenging task. Fortunately, the MirageOS project  a set of libraries designed to build an operating system dedicated to running only a single application via virtualization (a unikernel)  introduced a true discipline for producing multi-context libraries.

In the near future, I would like to spend more time writing about Mirage, a fascinating project that we are trying to integrate into our projects, for example in YOCaml, our static site generator. Moreover, in addition to providing a sound approach to distributing intelligently compartmentalized libraries, Mirage offers a solid foundation of libraries for building OCaml projects, which I will discuss more extensively in the section dedicated to libraries.

The OCaml platform

The OCaml platform is a set of tools, maintained within an explicit lifecycle ( active , incubating , maintained , and deprecated ), designed to support the compiler with a coherent toolchain for OCaml code production. It includes many tools serving different purposes; however, in this section, I will focus only on certain aspects of the platform, leaving you free to consult its page and roadmap for more detailed information. In this section, we will look at, in broad strokes, 4 main specific points:

The package manager

The build system (build-system)

Editor support (including code formatting)

The documentation generator

When using OCaml for some time, this is probably the most exciting part of the article, because, in my opinion, it is the one that has benefited the most from progress. And the roadmap is, in my view, promising!

OPAM, the package manager

Even though language-specific package managers have become very popular (if not essential) in reducing adoption friction for a language, at the time OCaml was designed, they were rare. Indeed, apart from CTAN, for distributing TeX packages, CPAN, inspired by CTAN, for distributing Perl packages, and PEAR for PHP, it would take until Gems for development technologies to consider adopting a package manager as axiomatic for a programming language.

OPAM, for OCaml Package Manager, is a proposal from 2012 (the official site About page presents a small timeline). In addition to installing packages, OPAM allows you to install different versions of OCaml and create potentially sandboxed environments, called switches. You can use the public resource repository, hosted on GitHub, but it is also perfectly possible to create your own package index.

Having already published several packages on OPAM, I must admit that the CI for package addition validation is incredibly efficient and user-friendly (each error provides a Dockerfile to reproduce the issue locally), and that the team of people who moderate and manage package additions/changes are extraordinarily responsive and kind.

Even though, in the light of modern standards, one could point out several criticisms of OPAM, for example:

terminology that can be cumbersome to grasp (switch, invariant, etc.)

duplication of all packages and compilers across multiple switches (this is a known issue for which work has already been done)

and probably some ergonomic issues (notably the interaction with dune could be smoother, for which work is also currently underway)

could be smoother, for which work is also currently underway) some complications when managing packages in development, referencing them from a source repository rather than from OPAM

I must admit that coming from an era when OPAM did not exist, I have learned to live with some of these minor pitfalls, and on a daily basis, I have little reason to complain about the tool, which has never really let me down in my everyday use. However, if you have encountered usage issues, I encourage you to discuss them on one of the communication spaces so that the development team can take your feedback into account and guide you.

There is also esy as an alternative package manager, which draws inspiration from Nix to build a reusable store, in the same way it is possible to use Nix with OCaml. However, being somewhat conventional, I am not really familiar with these practices, and being satisfied with my workflow with OPAM, I have, unfortunately, never taken the time to seriously experiment with esy.

Dune, the build-system

As with package management, historically, OCaml had several build-systems: the venerable ocamlbuild, oasis, ocp-build, Jenga, and other variations around Make. However, since 2018, the community has strongly adopted Dune, a build-system initially developed at Janestreet.

In many aspects, Dune can be intimidating. Indeed, its documentation is very dense  but it has greatly improved in terms of structure over the past few months. And, while many tools choose rule description languages like YAML, TOML, or even JSON, Dune has opted for S-expressions. It is also regrettable that Dune, by default, treats all warnings as fatal.

Before explaining some of its choices (such as S-expressions), it is very important to highlight the points that have made Dune a standard:

Dune is very fast and offers a highly efficient execution model

and offers a execution model it builds the necessary artifacts for configuration automatically

it generates some redundant files (such as OPAM description files)

it trivializes the vendoring of libraries

it allows invoking readevalprint loops correctly provisioned by the context

one becomes familiar very quickly with S-expressions , which allow rules to be described schematically and rapidly

, which allow rules to be described schematically and rapidly it is relatively agnostic and can execute arbitrary tasks (similar to make )

) it is constantly evolving and improving from version to version

paired with dune-release, it makes publishing packages on OPAM incredibly simple

Perhaps Im biased, but in my opinion, Dune is one of the most generic and pleasant build-systems Ive ever used  even if, at first glance, it can seem intimidating and some choices may be hard to justify.

On the choice of S-expressions

At first glance, using a Lisp-like syntax to describe binaries, libraries, and projects may seem surprising. However, this decision has several advantages:

The AST of S-expressions being drastically simple , parsing is very straightforward and can be made highly efficient, which does not penalize compilation speed.

being , parsing is very straightforward and can be made highly efficient, which does not penalize compilation speed. The language has termination, making it easier to inspect in case of errors (anyone who has tried to handle errors in large YAML files will have faced this kind of problem).

The language is very easy to learn and to describe.

It allows describing real programs, making Dune relatively generic and enabling additional tasks.

So, from my point of view, the choice of S-expressions is relevant: it allows describing complex, readable programs without being too verbose, does not significantly slow down compilation, and enables very concise descriptions of highly complex build rules. And to be completely honest, you get used to it very quickly!

Contribution to the state of the art: Selective Applicative Functor

In addition to being a very pleasant build-system, Dune has contributed to the state of the art in research by highlighting a new construction inspired by category theory. Indeed, in 2018, Andrey Mokhov, Neil Mitchell and Simon Peyton Jones proposed, in the excellent paper "Build Systems a la Carte", a collection of abstractions to re-implement  modularly  various build-systems. However, for reasons related to static dependency analysis, these models were not compatible with Dune. After several investigations and experiments, a new construction, similar to an Applicative, a Selective Applicative Functor, capturing Dune's prerequisites was proposed. This information may seem anecdotal, but, in my view, it reinforces the value (and importance) of being at the intersection of research and industry.

Alternatives

Although widely adopted by the community, OCaml offers alternative systems (sometimes using Dune under the hood), for example, Obazl which provides OCaml rules for Bazel, Onix which allows building projects with Nix, Buck2 which is an ambitious and generic project competing with Bazel, and Drom which offers an experience similar to Cargo, unifying package management and project building.

LSP and Merlin for editors

In the previous sections, we saw how much OCaml has progressed in areas necessary for industrialization. On the other hand, in terms of editor support, OCaml has had excellent support for Vim and Emacs for over 10 years through the Merlin project, which provides editor services enabling completion, diagnostics, code navigation features, tools related to value deconstruction, value construction, management (and navigation) of typed holes, polarity-based search, precise information (with verbosity control) on value types, jump-to-definition, etc.

In my opinion, IDE support via Merlin has been excellent in OCaml for a very long time. Coupled with ocp-indent, which calculates the cursor position after an action in the editor, and OCamlformat, which allows on-the-fly (configurable) formatting of OCaml files, writing code in Emacs or Vim is an absolute joy!

The advent of VSCode, LSP as standard

In 2015, Visual Studio Code arrived, introducing the Language Server Protocol, which abstracts how editors interact with a language through a server, following a uniform protocol. OCaml has a very good LSP server that itself relies on well-established libraries in the OCaml ecosystem, notably Merlin. Since LSP has become relatively standard in the editor world (Vim, Emacs, and, in fact, almost all free editors I know can interact with an LSP server), the plan is to deprecate the Merlin server, moving entirely to LSP, making Merlin a low-level library that provides tooling used by LSP. This is one of the projects the Editor team at Tarides (which Im part of) is working on: making ocaml-lsp feature-compatible with Merlins historic server to reduce maintenance for alternative clients (Emacs and Vim), only worrying about OCaml-specific requests and actions (which, logically, are not part of the protocol).

Currently, the OCaml platform for Visual Studio Code and OCaml-eglot are the two canonical implementations (which extend the LSP protocol for OCaml), respectively for VSCode and Emacs. We are currently considering the implementation of a NeoVim plugin.

A bit like with Dune, in my opinion, the tooling state is excellent, and the roadmap is motivating! However, since this is my work, Im probably biased.

Odoc, the documentation generator

OCaml is distributed with a documentation generator, the venerable OCamldoc; however, it is no longer recommended by/for the community. Indeed, the tool being promoted is Odoc, a new tool that exists outside the compiler and offers several very interesting features:

a rich markup language, supporting cross-references

the ability to write "manual" pages, ephemeral, while still benefiting from cross-references

very good integration with Dune

a type-based search bar (implemented via Sherlodoc)

inclusion of source code (written in the documentation or documented modules)

implementation of drivers allowing the generation of large sets of documentation (used to implement the documentation of all packages on OPAM)

support for doctest via mdx

Even though the look'n feel of documentation generated by Odoc is, in my view, far superior to that produced by OCamldoc, there is still (once again, in my view) a bit of work needed on the UI for the tool to be truly perfect!

I clearly have a certain fondness for the documentation of the Elixir language, HexDoc (in terms of design and features), and personally, I would like OCaml to move toward that example. However, it must be acknowledged that the documentation generated by Odoc is superior to that of many other languages. Moreover, due to the highly modular nature of the language, a good documentation generator that effectively supports cross-references is quite an achievement!

Available libraries

We have seen that the language is cool, and that it has tooling which, although still evolving, is effective and pleasant to use. Could its lack of popularity be due to a too limited set of libraries? To be completely honest, I dont know. What I do know is that whenever I have had to write OCaml projects, both professional and personal, I have often found everything I needed in the package list. I think the reasons why OCaml is mature enough for many typical projects can be summarized in several points:

Companies like Lexifi and Janestreet have strongly contributed to the ecosystem by releasing many libraries necessary for their daily use.

Ambitious research projects, such as, in the case of the Web, Ocsigen, used industrially in the BeSport project, have generated a collection of useful libraries.

As mentioned earlier, MirageOS, with its Clean Slate approach, naturally produced many robust libraries.

Like in popular languages such as JavaScript or Rust, motivated contributors have provided excellent libraries.

The language is old and has been used industrially for a long time.

For my part, I have sometimes re-created libraries for the pleasure of reinventing the wheel, but also, at times, to offer an alternative interface. Moreover, OCaml allows interfacing with, among other languages, C, enabling the creation of bindings for a large number of libraries and tools. However, if there is a library that you find objectively missing, I encourage you to join the community.

It is important to note that my use of OCaml has focused primarily on three areas:

Web development (heavily driven by Mirage, Ocsigen, and independent projects like Dream, YOCaml, and many others)

(heavily driven by Mirage, Ocsigen, and independent projects like Dream, YOCaml, and many others) Blockchain development and, by extension, the use of cryptography libraries, provided once again by Mirage, as well as by the HACL* project, a formally verified library written in F* and extracted to OCaml

and, by extension, the use of cryptography libraries, provided once again by Mirage, as well as by the HACL* project, a formally verified library written in F* and extracted to OCaml Development of Merlin and OCaml-LSP

All these areas still require good testing tooling, and OCaml offers several complementary libraries to implement robust test suites. Indeed, within the OCaml ecosystem, you can find tools to write doctests, classic unit tests, property-based tests, fuzzing, as well as output observation tests, inline tests (which allow testing, among other things, private components), and cram tests.

I continue to find everything I need among the available packages, and Im still very impressed to see the number of packages and alternatives grow year after year. Of course, there are some gaps, but they have not invalidated my choice of OCaml.

Side note on the standard library

A recurring criticism of OCaml is the modesty of its standard library. Historically, it was designed only to implement the language itself, so it didnt include certain features useful for end users. This situation has led to the emergence of alternative standard libraries, the most popular of which are:

Batteries, an alternative to the standard library that is somewhat dated. Historically, it was a fork of Extlib.

Base, an alternative developed by Janestreet, used quite extensively in the book Real World OCaml. The library enforces strong conventions, such as labeling higher-order functions (typically with the name f ).

). Core is an extension of Base.

Containers is an extension of the standard library (in the sense that open Containers at the beginning of a module does not break code written with the standard library).

In addition to these alternative standard libraries, there are specialized libraries that address general problems, such as Bos, which provides tools to interact with an operating system, and Preface  shameless plug  which allows you to realize abstractions from category theory.

The stance of the maintainers on the standard library has evolved over the years, and it is now possible to consider extending it. However, additions to the standard library are often subject to debate, and adding new modules can sometimes take a long time. Personally, I would have preferred that the standard library continue to serve only the development of the language and that a library under the OCaml community umbrella be published. This separation allows the releases of the language and its standard library to be desynchronized and also likely simplifies compatibility between the library and the language.

Ecosystem Conclusion

Unfortunately, I dont have the opportunity to cover all the tools of the platform, nor the fundamental building blocks that make OCaml enjoyable to use for personal projects as well as for industrial projects (for example, the various existing debuggers). However, I hope Ive been able to give an overview of some tools that form a solid foundation for using OCaml.

In my use of the language, Ive sometimes had to build my own library; however, its not an exercise I regret. I think, unfortunately, that if one decides never to use a language just because 100% of the necessary libraries arent available, it feelsperhaps awkwardlyto me like leveling down, trapping us behind languages backed by wealthy companies, like Java or C#, and thats a bit sad.

On the community

Even though Ive used many different programming languages, I think OCaml is the only one with which Ive had strong community interaction. So, Im not fully aware of how things work in other communities, which makes my feedback somewhat irrelevant. But from my experience, I find that the OCaml community, besides being very productive, is:

Very accessible : Like many other languages, OCaml has a strong online presence. On these platforms, you can find highly experienced contributors to the language and its ecosystem and benefit from expert (or sometimes less technical) advice. Id like to give a special mention to Gabriel Scherer and Florian Angeletti, whose answers are always thoughtful and interesting.

Very kind : I often need to ask for help, and Ive always received clear and precise answers, whether in private or in public.

Very brilliant: OCaml is the product of work by brilliant researchers, and having the chance to interact with them is incredible (and potentially a bit intimidating). Being able to ask questions directly to people behind some of the major discoveries in language design is a fantastic opportunity.

To conclude on the community aspect, even though Im not fully aware of how other communities interact, I find it a pleasure to be part of the OCaml developer community. Its a welcoming space, conducive to sharing and learning.

Some myths about OCaml

Im finally reaching the most fun part of this overly long article: I get to debunk some persistent myths about OCaml. I still cant promise complete objectivity, but know that my intentions are good. On the internet, you often see various criticisms or remarks about OCaml, and I often find it tiresome to respond. However, what better way than an article meant to share my enthusiasm for the language to take the time to address some of these critiques and try to provide a response?

Ive selected a few, but its likely that in the future Ill write somewhat longer articlessimilar to the members of HeyPlzLookAtMe (fr)  about articles I find unfair.

OCaml and F#

F# is a programming language historically very inspired by OCaml that runs on the .NET platform (and, de facto, integrates very well with C#). I find the language  which I have professionally used at DernierCri and D-Edge  very pleasant. Historically, since .NET was exclusively for Windows environments, OCaml didnt suffer much by comparison. However, since the arrival of .NET Core, a cross-platform implementation of .NET, I increasingly see statements on the internet like:

"Why continue using OCaml when you can have the same language, F#, with the entire .NET ecosystem, more features, and a syntax thats more pleasant to use?"

First, I do think that having the .NET (Core) ecosystem is a huge advantage. Regarding the syntax, Im more reserved. Indeed, I find that indentation-based syntax sometimes makes moving code around more cumbersome, and even though there are criticisms of OCamls syntax, I must admit it hasnt let me down. The last point seems a bit more insidious. Indeed, F# has been equipped with features not present in OCaml, for example:

Computation expressions (which are syntactically a more general form than binding operators)

Type providers (which can, unfortunately, sometimes cause issues with .NET Core in certain name/path resolution cases)

Active patterns

Statically resolved type parameters

The ability to assign methods to sums and products, which makes sense for interoperability reasons but significantly breaks type inference

And probably other features that I dont know well (or are linked to interoperability with the .NET platform, notably reflection)

These evolutions arrived gradually in the language. It would be naive to think that OCaml hasnt evolved as well. Indeed, although historically the two languages seemed very similar, from the very beginning of F#s proposal, certain features were missing:

The absence of a module language . Indeed, the module keyword exists in F#, but it is only used to describe static classes (and it integrates rather awkwardly with namespaces).

A drastically different object model (for interoperability with C#, of course).

These two reasons alone would be enough to consider OCaml and F# as cousin languages but very different, and in my opinion, strongly justify preferring one over the other. In my case, OCaml over F# makes the introductory sentence of this section moot. However, like F#, OCaml has also evolved, and in addition to these two fundamental differences, OCaml offers many features that are absent in F#:

Local and generalized open s : In OCaml, you can open a module locally within a scope, whereas in F# you can only open a module at the top-level, which can be quite frustrating in some cases.

: In OCaml, you can open a module locally within a scope, whereas in F# you can only open a module at the top-level, which can be quite frustrating in some cases. Row polymorphism : OCaml supports row polymorphism on products (via objects) and sums (via polymorphic variants).

: OCaml supports row polymorphism on products (via objects) and sums (via polymorphic variants). Generalized Algebraic Data Types (GADTs) : One of the most missed features (after the module system) for expressing precise type constraints.

: One of the most missed features (after the module system) for expressing precise type constraints. User-defined effects : OCaml allows defining custom effect handlers, which can simplify complex control flow and concurrency patterns.

: OCaml allows defining custom effect handlers, which can simplify complex control flow and concurrency patterns. Open sums: Extensible variants allow for sum types that can be extended, though similar behavior can sometimes be simulated using objects and inheritance.

To conclude, even though F# is a really nice language and using it brings many advantages (notably the .NET platform), it is not just a better version of OCaml. The two languages are very different, and from my point of view, OCaml has a more sophisticated type system, which makes me prefer it over F#. In my opinion, saying that F# is just a prettier OCaml is as reasonable as saying that Kotlin is nothing more than Scala with a lighter syntax.

Doubled operators for floats

The standard library contains the following arithmetic operators on integers:

val ( + ) : int -> int -> int val ( - ) : int -> int -> int val ( * ) : int -> int -> int

But also arithmetic operators for floating point numbers:

val ( +. ) : float -> float -> float val ( -. ) : float -> float -> float val ( *. ) : float -> float -> float

At first glance, this may seem confusing. However, it makes perfect sense. If we wanted to have generic operators, we would need ad-hoc polymorphism, like in Haskell, for example, where arithmetic operators reside in the Num type class:

class Num a where (+), (-), (*) :: a -> a -> a

Without some form of ad-hoc polymorphism (via classes, traits, or implicits) to describe a constraint on our operators, e.g., op :: Num a => a -> a -> a , what can we do? A suggestion Ive often seen online is to use the same trick as with the = operator, whose type is val (=) : 'a -> 'a -> bool . That doesnt work, because while we can hope that everything is comparable (at worst, we can return false ), how can we generalize something like addition?

Support for arithmetic operators is a tricky problem, which is actually the original motivation behind type classes (and the reason for statically resolved type parameters in F#). From my perspective, while waiting for modular implicits, duplicating operators to work with integers and floats seems like a reasonable approach. And if, for some strange reason, suffixing operators with dots when using floats gives you hives, you can avoid it using local opens by providing, for example, this module:

module Arithmetic ( P : sig type t val add : t -> t -> t val sub : t -> t -> t val mul : t -> t -> t val div : t -> t -> t end ) = struct let ( + ) , ( - ) , ( * ) , ( / ) = P . ( add , sub , mul , div ) end

Which allows extending the Int and Float modules (which already provide the functions add , sub , mul , and div ) by giving them arithmetic operators:

module Int = struct include Int include Arithmetic ( Int ) end

In broad terms, we create an Int module, include the previous Int module so that our new Int module retains the entire API of the original Int module, and then we define (and include) our arithmetic operators. We can now repeat the same process with Float :

module Float = struct include Float include Arithmetic ( Float ) end

And now we can use a local open so that we dont have to suffix our operators with dots:

let x = Int . ( 1 + 2 + 3 + ( 4 * 6 / 7 ) ) let y = Float . ( 1.3 + 2.5 + 3.1 + ( 4.6 * 6.8 / 7.9 ) )

From my point of view, even if this can be confusing for those coming from languages where this isnt an issue, its a minor problem. The lack of operator overloading seems like a rather weak argument for not giving a language a chance  but thats just my humble opinion.

On the separation between ml and mli

Another point that generates a lot of discussion (even recently) concerns the separation between ml and mli files. Personally, I find it great. Even if it can introduce a bit of repetition, it allows me to focus on the API via module encapsulation in the mli file while also adding documentation. I can organize the functions I expose in any order I like, and naturally, I can abstract the types I share as much as possible. Moreover, when I look at an implementation, the ml code is rarely cluttered with documentation, making it easy to navigate the different elements of the module. On top of that, it enables separate compilation and prevents recompiling modules that depend on other modules whose implementation alone was changed during development (this is Dunes default behavior in the dev profile).

However, tastes vary, and when exposing complex types or module types, this repetition can be annoying. Fortunately, there is a trick, presented in 2020 by Craig Ferguson, that helps mitigate this repetition: The _intf_ trick.

Additionally, there are small tricks based on the ability to pass arbitrary module expressions to the open and include primitives, which sometimes allow you to do without mli . I had already mentioned this in the article OCaml, modules and import schemes.

Encapsulation without mli

You can simply use open struct (* private code *) end to avoid exporting parts of your code without needing interfaces. For example:

open struct let f x = x let g = _some_private_stuff end let a = f 10 let b = g + 11

Expressing the interface from ml

Another similar technique is to use include (struct ... end : sig (* public API *) end) to describe both the structure and the interface in the same file. For example:

include ( struct type t = int let f x = x let g = _some_private_stuff end : sig type t val f : int -> t end )

This way, the signature and the structure live in the same file, while still allowing precise control over encapsulation. Another approach would be to put the signature in a dedicated module type , like this:

module type S = sig type t val f : int -> t end include ( struct type t = int let f x = x let g = _some_private_stuff end : S )

This is very similar to the first approach, except that the module also exposes the module type S . A useful side effect of this leak is that you can easily reference the module's signature using My_mod.S instead of having to write module type of My_mod .

To conclude on separation

I find this separation very desirable. However, since OCamls module system is highly expressive, it is possible  through some clever encoding  to work around this separation. From my point of view, these approaches mainly serve to demonstrate this expressiveness, because the downside of merging everything in one file is the loss of separate compilation, which I consider quite unfortunate.

Conclusion

I think I have briefly covered the points I wanted to discuss. From my perspective, OCaml is an amazing language! It offers an excellent balance between safety and expressiveness, thanks in particular to its advanced type system, a rich module language, objects, support for row polymorphism via objects and polymorphic variants, and user-defined effects! Its intersection of research and industry makes it, in my view, a language evolving in the right direction, carefully integrating new features to stay modern without suffering the pitfalls of too-rapid or untested adoption.

Even though for several years OCamls tooling might have seemed a bit dusty, recently, thanks in part to commercial support from certain companies, the tooling has been drastically modernized and continues to improve, as shown by the platform roadmap. Additionally, the growing ecosystem of libraries makes it possible to use OCaml in a wide range of contexts, notably thanks to its different compilation targets (for example, the browser via js_of_ocaml and wasm_of_ocaml).

By combining an expressive language with a versatile ecosystem and a supportive, responsive community, OCaml becomes a very compelling choice for both personal and professional projects. Clearly, migrating an entire codebase to OCaml is probably not a pragmatic move, but if you have small personal projects in mind and are curious and entertained by programming languages, I seriously encourage you to consider OCaml!

I hope Ive managed to convey my enthusiasm for this language (and its ecosystem). If youd like to discuss it, find projects, or explore contribution opportunities, Id be happy to talk with you  or you can reach out to the community through the forum, which is active, responsive, and welcoming!
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Wednesday said that "widespread sale of narcotics" is making youngsters "addicted towards crimes" like murder, robbery, and rape, and slammed the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government for "not taking" any action. Speaking to reporters, Palaniswami said, "In the past, people used to ask about gold rates or silver rates. Now, it's about the 'murder rate.' The widespread sale of narcotics is making youngsters addicted, pushing them into crimes like murder, robbery, and rape. The DMK government has not taken any action to prevent this." The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the state assembly further claimed that under the DMK, 207 government schools were shut in Tamil Nadu. Palaniswami said, "The DMK's only achievement is shutting down 207 government schools in Tamil Nadu. If the government had taken measures to keep them running instead of closing them, it would have been commendable. Closing down already functioning schools is not right." "The AIADMK, during its tenure, established several government schools with the aim of increasing the number of children receiving education in Tamil Nadu. Our intention was to create knowledgeable students and ensure that poor and underprivileged children in those areas had access to education. Due to the present government's negligence, around 207 schools have been closed. This is both saddening and painful. The government must give special attention to this issue," he further added. On August 9, Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) president and Rajya Sabha MP GK Vasan also alleged that among the southern states, Tamil Nadu has the worst law and order situation, where crimes have gradually increased compared to the previous AIADMK regime. "Compared to the AIADMK regime, murders, robberies, thefts, and sexual crimes are taking place daily under the present government," Vasan said in Thanjavur. Early this month, DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan trained guns on Palaniswami (EPS), labelling him the "slave of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)". Reacting to the exit of expelled All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leader and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam (OPS) from the NDA alliance, Elangovan said that EPS wants to protect himself and his family. "The BJP must have thought that because EPS is with them, he would not accept OPS or something like that. When the Prime Minister came, he did not meet OPS, which may also be the reason. He doesn't want them to come back to AIADMK. He believes that if these people return, his leadership position will be weakened. EPS is not a leader; he is now a slave of the BJP," the DMK leader told ANI. (ANI)
The border dispute between India and China has been going on for several months and even after 15 rounds of talks, it has not been resolved. In such a situation, the visit of the Foreign Minister of China is expected to reduce the increased gap between India and China.
India has asked Facebook Inc-owned WhatsApp messenger to take steps to prevent the circulation of false texts and provocative content that have led to a series of lynchings and mob beatings across the country in the past few months.
Mahapanchayat of Hindu Samaj is going to be held at Nuh-Palwal border in Haryana. Saints from different places will gather in this mahapanchayat starting from 10 am on Sunday. Representatives of Hindu society including VHP, Bajrang Dal will gather. A letter has been written to 500 villages asking people to mobilize. The aim of this Hindu Mahapanchayat is to complete the Braj Mandal Yatra which was incomplete on 31st July. The Hindu side is trying to take out this yatra again on 28th August. But the final seal has to be put during the Mahapanchayat only. The further agenda will be decided through the Mahapanchayat.
Kolkata will host the Reclaim The Night protest on August 14, a year after the R.G. Kar Medical College rape-murder, with vigils and events demanding justice and safer spaces for women.
Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday said that the Election Commission has not answered any of the questions posed by Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi over "voter theft" during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Speaking to the media, Baghel emphasised that the answers to these questions hold the "essence of democracy". He recalled that when opposition MPs were marching towards the ECI on Monday, they were detained by the Delhi Police midway. "Lok Sabha MPs marched towards the Election Commission, more than 250 MPs were heading towards the Election Commission's office, but the Delhi Police stopped them midway... The questions Rahul Gandhi asked the Election Commission have not been answered till date, and the answers to these questions hold the essence of democracy," Bhupesh Baghel said. On the aim of the protest, Baghel linked it to preventing electoral malpractice and announced Gandhi's political plans in Bihar. "If we want to save democracy, we must stop vote theft, which is why all MPs raised the slogan 'Vote Chor Gaddi Chhod,' and this slogan has now reached the public... In this regard, Rahul Gandhi will undertake a 15-day padyatra in Bihar starting from August 17, and a large rally will be held at Gandhi Maidan on September 1, where all leaders of the INDIA alliance will be present," he said. Bhagel was referencing the protest held by the INDIA bloc leaders on Monday, when Congress MPs marched from the Parliament to the Election Commission of India to protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar and allegations of "voter fraud" during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. On Tuesday, Congress MP KC Venugopal announced that the party will hold a 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rally at 8 pm on August 14, in all districts across the country. The announcement came after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge chaired a meeting of General Secretaries and In-Charges at the party headquarters in New Delhi earlier in the day. Venugopal informed that the Congress party will also launch a nationwide signature campaign from September 15 to October 16, with a target of collecting five crore signatures to be submitted to the Election Commission of India. "On 14th August, we will do a night march all over India, a district-level night march. 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rally at 8 pm on 14th August, in all districts. Then from August 21 to September 7, we will do state-level 'Vote chor, gaddi chhodd' rallies...From September 15 to October 15, a massive signature campaign will take place with the same slogan. We will submit 5 crore signatures to the EC," KC Venugopal told ANI. (ANI)
A campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was held in Aizawl on Wednesday, where over 600 students participated. The walk, which started from two different locations, Chanmari and Sikulpuikawn was converged at Lammual, where a concluding rally was held. Chief Minister Lalduhoma flagged off the procession from Chanmari and also joined the march. At the closing ceremony, the CM stated that due to the state's proximity to the Golden Triangle, which was a major production hub and due to the presence of a transit route, drugs were present in abundance. The CM urged the assembled students to avoid drugs, even if they are within arm's reach, as they offered nothing good. He also called out the community to shun drug peddlers, further stating that they should face the force of law and stated, "Let us, the people, unite and protect our nation from this evil. Our youth must not even try any drugs." Health Minister Pi Lalrinpuii and Excise and Narcotics Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar also delivered speeches. The assembled crowd then took a pledge, led by Miss Grand India runners-up Miss Vanlalnuntluangi. A day earlier, the Mizoram CM formally launched the Intensified IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) Campaign on HIV and the HIV Test Drive Campaign 2025 in Aizawl, the Chief Minister's Office said. Health Minister Lalrinpuii attended the programme as the Guest of Honour, while Minister B Lalchhanzova was also present. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that HIV, once contracted, has no cure, and the only safeguard lies in prevention. He underscored the importance of accurate information and widespread awareness to enable people to protect themselves. He stressed that, as HIV is present in many parts of the State, efforts must extend to remote villages and border areas. Mizoram is known for having strong HIV/AIDS awareness, yet the State still has a high prevalence of infection. He noted that despite good awareness levels, prevention practices are not being fully observed, and there is a need for innovative and impactful awareness initiatives. For the year 2024-25, health workers reported that 68.13 per cent of new HIV cases were due to sexual transmission, while 29.25 per cent were caused by sharing of needles among injecting drug users. (ANI)
By Laman Ismayilova

Sedaye Mustafayeva is regarded as one of Azerbaijan's most beloved and revered actresses, Azernews reports.

Her influence on Azerbaijani theater and cinema remains profound. From her early days on stage to her lasting impact on the Ganja State Drama Theater, she created hundreds of unforgettable characters that continue to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.

Born on July 15, 1926, in the picturesque city of Shaki, Sedaye Mustafayeva's journey into the arts began at a time of great uncertainty.

After completing her primary education, the outbreak of World War II led her to support her family by working at the Silk Factory in Shaki. During this challenging period, she gained early exposure to the realities of life outside the classroom, but it was within the arts that she would find her true calling.

Her professional career began at the Shaki State Drama Theater, where she quickly rose to prominence for her captivating performances.

The actress's talent was soon recognized, and she made a significant mark at various theaters in Azerbaijan, including those in Agdash and Goychay, where she brought a wide range of complex characters to life.

In 1950, a turning point came when she received an invitation to join the prestigious Ganja State Drama Theater, under the direction of the renowned director and People's Artist, Mehmet Burjeliyev.

It was here that Mustafayeva truly flourished, performing over 400 roles that would define her legacy. Her portrayals in plays such as "Vaqif", "Aydin", "Pari Jadu", and "Solgun Chichaklar" showcased her versatility and depth as an actress, earning her a place in the hearts of theatergoers across Azerbaijan.

From the regal Khuraman in "Vaqif" to the tragic Sara in "Solgun Chichaklar", her roles spanned a wide range of emotions, establishing her as one of the leading figures in Azerbaijani theater.

Beyond the stage, Mustafayeva's career extended to film, where she appeared in over 20 productions, leaving an enduring mark on Azerbaijani cinema.

Her roles in films such as "Qanun Namine", "Sharikli Chorak", and "Agh Atli Oglan" showcased her incredible range as an actress, portraying characters of varying depth and complexity.

She worked not only with local filmmakers but also with international teams, appearing in the American-made film "Ilk Korpu", where she played the character of Asmar.

Throughout her career, Mustafayeva's contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous prestigious honors, including the title of Honored Artist in 1958 and People's Artist in 1981.

In 2003, she was further honored with an Individual Pension from the President of Azerbaijan, a testament to her lasting influence on the cultural landscape of the country.

Sedaye Mustafayeva passed away on August 13, 2004, in Ganja, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of theater and cinema enthusiasts.
The premises of Tripura University came alive on Wednesday as teachers and students united in a vibrant Tiranga March, celebrating the spirit of patriotism ahead of Independence Day. Leading the event, the University's Vice-Chancellor stated that the march aimed to remind citizens of the strength and resilience symbolised by the national flag. "By hoisting this flag, we won our nation's freedom. Through this march, we wish to convey the immense pride and significance it holds," he said. The march reflected not only the unity of the academic community but also its commitment to upholding the values the flag represents. Meanwhile, as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, Tripura Chief Minister Prof Dr Manik Saha hoisted the tricolour at his residence on Wednesday. "Hoisted the tricolour at my residence today as part of the #HarGharTiranga campaign. Under PM @narendramodi ji's leadership, this campaign has united the country in pride and patriotism, carrying forward the dream of countless freedom fighters," he posted on X. In addition to this, Chief Ministers of several BJP-led states took part in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign on Wednesday and hoisted the tricolour at their residences ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hoisted the tricolour at his residence and wrote on X, "The proclamation of our unity, the resolve of our integrity, the eternal symbol of our sovereignty and pride... 'Our Tricolour' Let us join the #HarGharTiranga campaign...Jai Hind!"Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini hoisted the tricolour at his residence in Chandigarh, while Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel hoisted the flag in Gandhinagar. Earlier on Wednesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with his wife Sonal Shah, hoisted the flag at their residence in Delhi's Krishna Menon Marg and participated in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga campaign'. Visuals from his residence showed him hoisting the several feet long tiranga with his wife on his terrace, while the residence was also draped with the colours of the Indian flag. (ANI)
Congress and Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) have announced that they will boycott the Independence Day Tea Reception hosted by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, who has been "acting against the people". Congress MLAs will boycott the Independence Day tea reception on August 15 hosted by the Governor, state Congress President K Selvaperunthagai said in a statement. "As a mark of protest against Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, who has been acting against the people of Tamil Nadu and the rights of the land since the day he assumed office, the Tamil Nadu Congress MLAs will boycott the Independence Day tea reception hosted by the Governor," he said. He also slammed the Governor for "deliberately delaying" forwarding the Bill to establish a university in Kumbakonam in the name of Muthamizh Arignar Kalaignar to the President. In a statement, MMK President MH Jawahirullah stated that the party's decision to boycott the event is due to the Governor's consistent actions that "undermine the authority of the state government" and "disrupt the democratic functioning" of the government elected by the people. The statement reads, "Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) to boycott the Governor of Tamil Nadu's Independence Day Tea Reception. As the Governor has been consistently acting in ways that undermine the authority of the state government and disrupt the democratic functioning of the government elected by the people, the Manithaneya Makkal Katchi will boycott his tea reception." State Congress chief also alleged that the Election Commission of India, at the "instigation" of the Union BJP government, has caused "irregularities" in the electoral roll under the guise of intensive revision in Bihar. Congress has 17 MLAs in the state assembly, while MMK has two. (ANI)
On the third day of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly's Monsoon Session, a historic 24-hour debate on 'Vision 2047' began on Wednesday, with senior ministers outlining plans for economic growth, social justice, environmental protection, and infrastructure. They reaffirmed the Uttar Pradesh government's goal of making the state the nation's most developed state by 2047, with targets like zero poverty, world-class infrastructure, and advanced technology. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said that before 2017, UP's infrastructure and law-and-order were in disarray, with serious crimes enjoying political protection. Pathak emphasised that today, the state boasts the most expressways in the country, four-lane road links to all 75 districts, and improved power supply across all regions compared to just five districts earlier. He also stated that Uttar Pradesh is number one in the country in terms of wheat, milk, and sugar production. Healthcare services have seen remarkable progress, with 80 medical colleges, AIIMS in Raebareli and Gorakhpur, and more than 5,250 MBBS seats, he added. "Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, 5.5 crore health cards have been made. Mosquito-borne diseases have been brought under control, and the target is to completely eradicate TB, malaria, and waterborne diseases by 2047," he stated. The Deputy CM added that super speciality hospitals and trauma centres will be set up in every division, with disease surveillance systems to tackle ailments like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, alongside awareness drives on health risks from climate change. Finance Minister Suresh Khanna told the Assembly that in the past eight years, Uttar Pradesh has achieved unprecedented progress in the economic sector. The state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has reached Rs 29.87 lakh crore, and the goal for the current financial year is Rs 35 lakh crore. He said that investment proposals worth more than Rs 40 lakh crore have been received, with industries being set up in regions like Purvanchal and Bundelkhand. Khanna said UP aims to be the nation's most developed state by 2047, targeting zero poverty, world-class infrastructure, top investment status, and hubs for space tech and IT. He highlighted rural cottage industry promotion, the planting of 242 crore trees, river channelisation, solar energy research, and stronger security along international borders. "Research will be promoted for advanced agricultural technology and better seeds, to equip farmers with technical know-how and access to global markets. The state also plans to use AI to curb tax evasion, empower half the population to be self-reliant, instil duty and patriotism in children, and promote healthy lifestyles through yoga," he remarked. Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh said that before 2017, UP was seen as a BIMARU state, but today it has won the 'Rashtriya Jal Puraskar'. He noted that irrigation now covers 1.04 crore hectares via 76,527 km of canals, the Ken-Betwa link project has begun for Bundelkhand, and flood protection spans 523 embankments. With eight major and 58 minor rivers stretching 15,225 km, plans include dam modernisation, flood forecasting, pollution-free rivers, and large-scale canal-side tree plantations. Urban Development and Energy Minister AK Sharma said UP is swiftly working to realise the PM's vision of a developed India. Citing the poor pre-2017 power situation, he noted that many villages lacked poles and wires and billing was marred by scams, whereas the state now meets a peak demand of 32,000 MW, up from 13,000 MW in 2012-17. "In seven decades, only 8.5 lakh farmers received tube wells, while the Yogi government has provided 15 lakh in the past eight years. Electrification has reached 1.5 lakh hamlets, with thermal power generation standing at 9,120 MW. Over the last three years, 29 lakh poles have been replaced, and 38,000 transformers have been repaired monthly. Smart meters have cut power complaints, and solar energy promotion has been intensified," he asserted. The minister stated that UP's power system will be the best in the world, while urban development has advanced, with Lucknow ranking among India's top three cleanest cities and six UP cities in the top 20. By 2047, the state aims to achieve the Ram Rajya ideal in power and urban development. (ANI)
Ahead of the Independence Day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday led the Tiranga Yatra from Gandhi Park, Dehradun, with public representatives, thousands of youth, students, women and children holding the tricolour in their hands with the echo of 'Bharat Maa Ki Jaikar, Vande Mataram'. The CM encouraged the people present, especially the youth. He also launched the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign scheduled to take place from August 13 to 15. The Chief Minister led the Tiranga Yatra amidst the tunes of patriotic songs. The CM greeted the youth and also wished everyone a Happy Independence Day in advance. CM Dhami said that the tricolour is a living symbol of our freedom, unity and rich cultural heritage. The Chief Minister urged all the citizens of the state to hoist the tricolour with full respect and pride at their homes, establishments, workplaces and institutions on this Independence Day. "Remember and pay homage to the immortal fighters who sacrificed their lives for independence," he said. CM Dhami said that the Tiranga Yatra is not just a journey, but also an opportunity to express gratitude to Mother India, freedom fighters, martyred soldiers, brave women and the great sons of India. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on August 11, announced the 4th edition of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, "This year, we are going to celebrate the fourth edition of the Tiranga campaign, for which more than 5 lakh youths have registered as volunteers. These youths will inspire people for the Tiranga campaign." Addressing a press conference, Shekhawat said, "Har Ghar Tiranga is more than a campaign -- it is an emotional movement that unites 1.4 billion Indians under the timeless colours of our National Flag. It aims to instil patriotism, foster civic pride and spread awareness about the significance of the Tiranga as a living symbol of our democracy and independence." The Ministry of Culture is the nodal Ministry for this campaign and is working in close collaboration with State Governments, Union Territories, educational institutions, community organisations, and the general public to ensure widespread participation. (ANI)
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is likely to visit India this month, sources said on Wednesday. According to sources, the Chinese Foreign Minister is expected to take part in SR (Special Representative)-level talks. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval serve as the special representative of India. India and China have been working to improve their relationship in recent months, marked by several significant developments. High-level talks between the two countries have resumed, including meetings between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, later this month. China officially welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, which will be held in Tianjin at the end of this month. Addressing a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun made this announcement, expressing optimism that the gathering would strengthen regional cooperation. "China welcomes Prime Minister Modi to China for the SCO Tianjin Summit. We believe that with the concerted effort of all parties, the Tianjin summit will be a gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results, and the SCO will enter a new stage of high-quality development featuring greater solidarity, coordination, dynamism and productiveness," the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated. China will host the SCO Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1 this year, and leaders of over 20 countries, including all member states of the SCO, and heads of 10 international organisations, will attend relevant events as per the Chinese Ministry spokesperson. The Ministry of External Affairs has not yet issued a statement on the Prime Minister's visit. Moreover, India and China have agreed to disengage and resume patrolling in the Depsang Plains and Demchok areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This move aims to reduce tensions and restore peace along the border. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a significant pilgrimage route for Hindus, has been restarted, symbolizing renewed people-to-people connections and cultural diplomacy between the two nations. India and China have resumed tourist visas after a five-year gap, and there's been a revival of business relations, with Indian diesel cargo being shipped to China for the first time in over three years. oth countries are engaging in multilateral forums like BRICS, SCO, and G20, showcasing efforts to cooperate on global platforms despite bilateral tensions. The development comes amid tariffs imposed on India by United States President Donald Trump for buying Russian oil. Prime Minister Modi last visited China in 2018 on two occasions. First, during the month of April for the India-China Informal Summit at Wuhan, and later in June for the 18th meeting of the Council of Heads of State of SCO in Qingdao. Prime Minister Narendra Modi last met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in October 2024 on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. During their meeting, both leaders welcomed the agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. They agreed that the Special Representatives would meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace and tranquillity in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question. (ANI)
The Kedarnath Yatra on Wednesday has been halted for three days due to heavy rainfall warnings in Uttarakhand. Pilgrims are being stopped at Sonprayag and Jawadi police posts, with barricades set up to prevent them from proceeding further. The district administration closed the yatra from August 12 to August 15 as a precautionary measure to ensure pilgrim safety. When around 100-150 pilgrims tried to force their way past the barricades at Sonprayag, the police intervened and stopped them without any major incidents. Superintendent of Police Rudraprayag, Akshay Prahlad Konde, confirmed that the situation was brought under control without any issues. Superintendent of Police Rudraprayag Akshay Prahlad Konde said, this morning, around 100-150 pilgrims reached Sonprayag and they tried to go ahead by arguing with the police at Sonprayag. The police stopped them and did not let them go. No incident has happened with anyone in this case. "When they were stubborn despite instruction, the police had to take action to disperse them," he added. This comes following a video of the altercation between the Rudraprayag Police and the pilgrims going viral in Sonprayag. SP Rudraprayag Akshay Prahlad Konde said, "The video of the altercation between the police and the pilgrims has gone viral. Here, there is a red alert due to continuous rainfall. Yesterday, in an unfortunate incident, a woman lost her life and several others were injured, and after this, the district administration had stopped the pilgrimage for three days, which is effective till tomorrow. Despite that and putting up barricades, the pilgrims are reaching Sonprayag secretly" The decision to halt the yatra was made considering the safety of pilgrims, as heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and accidents. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will allow pilgrims to proceed once the weather improves. He said that the pilgrims coming to Shri Kedarnath Dham Yatra are being requested by the district police not to go beyond the district's police post at Jawadi. For this, barricading was also put up at Sonprayag by the police. However, some pilgrims began pushing the police and attempted to proceed by breaking the barrier. The Kedarnath Yatra in Uttarakhand has been temporarily halted for three days due to a red alert issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heavy rainfall in the region. The district administration has been put on high alert, and security arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of pilgrims and locals. As per the predictions by the IMD, heavy rain is expected in Rudraprayag district and the entire state on August 12, 13 and 14. The administration has been put on alert, given the warning of heavy rains. Security arrangements have also been made. "As per the predictions by the IMD, red and orange alerts have been predicted in Rudraprayag and other districts of the state. The administration has been put on alert, and security arrangements have also been made," District Magistrate Prateek Jain said in a self-made video. Jain further appealed to all locals residing near water bodies to shift to safer places, further stating that the water level of the river was being constantly monitored and weather alerts would be issued from time to time. "We are keeping a check on the rising water levels of the river here. We also appeal to residents to shift to safer places and be safe...All personnel, including the police, public work department and disaster management teams, have been asked to be on alert. We will be keeping a check on the weather, and will let the public know when the Kedarnath Yatra will resume," Jain further added. The Kedarnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located at an altitude of over 11,000 feet in the Himalayas and holds immense religious significance. The Kedarnath Yatra doors for the year 2025 were opened for devotees on May 2. (ANI)
The implementation process has already begun, with immediate promotions sanctioned for 23,710 personnel, the BSF said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

"On the first day of execution, promotion orders for 8,116 personnel across different ranks were issued," said the Central Armed Police Force, responsible for guarding India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders.

This development comes as a significant morale booster, particularly in the wake of the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, which reinforced the BSF's role in safeguarding national borders.

Officials said the move will significantly boost morale, especially following the successful conclusion of Operation Sindoor.

The review aims to ease long-standing stagnation in promotions and open better career avenues for frontline BSF personnel, thereby enhancing both their professional development and operational effectiveness.

The cadre review is expected to provide much-needed respite from existing promotion bottlenecks that have affected career progression for years in the 2.65 lakh personnel force. With this approval, avenues for advancement from Constable to Inspector will expand considerably, reducing stagnation and enabling a steady flow of leadership within the force's operational ranks.

Officials highlighted that the move is not just an administrative reform but a strategic morale-enhancing measure. Improved promotion opportunities will foster greater motivation among personnel, translating into enhanced readiness, efficiency, and professional growth within the BSF.

The BSF, known as India's largest border guarding force, is tasked with securing the country's frontiers against infiltration, smuggling, and other security threats.

Operation Sindoor, a recent high-profile initiative, showcased the force's operational capabilities and commitment to national security, further underscoring the importance of well-supported and motivated personnel at the cutting edge.

The government's decision marks a historic milestone for the BSF and is likely to set a precedent for similar cadre reviews in other central armed police forces. (ANI)
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a warning letter to Air India Ltd., cautioning the airline over violations of flight time regulations and advising its management to exercise the highest level of diligence in adhering to aviation safety requirements. The regulator, during a spot check, found that Air India operated two Bangalore-London flights (AI133) on May 16 and 17, 2025, each exceeding the stipulated 10-hour maximum flight time under Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section 7, Series J, Part III. The warning letter issued by DGCA stated, "During a spot check it was observed that Air India operated flights AI133 on May 16 and 17, 2025, both of which surpassed the 10-hour maximum flight time prescribed under Para 6.1.3 of the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section 7, Series J, Part III, Issue III dated April 24, 2019." The aviation regulator further noted that the airline's Accountable Manager failed to ensure compliance with key operational provisions specified in Annexure III of the CARs. "Whereas, it has further been noted that the Accountable Manager of M/s Air India Ltd. has failed to ensure compliance with the requirements as specified under Para 1 and Para 2.4 of Annexure III of the CARs, Section 3, Series C, Part II", the letter further stated. A Show Cause Notice was issued to Air India on June 20, 2025, under the Enforcement Policy and Procedures Manual (EPPM). "In view of the above, a Show Cause Notice was issued to Air India on 20 June 2025 under the relevant provisions of the Enforcement Policy and Procedures Manual (EPPM) for the aforementioned violations," the DGCA stated in the letter. After examining the airline's response, the regulator found it "unsatisfactory in addressing the regulatory lapses and deficiencies noted." "The reply submitted by Air India in response to the Show Cause Notice has been duly examined and found to be unsatisfactory in addressing the regulatory lapses and deficiencies noted. Accordingly, the Accountable Manager of M/s Air India Ltd. is hereby warned and advised to exercise utmost diligence and responsibility in ensuring strict compliance with the applicable Civil Aviation requirements," the letter further said. In response to the DGCA warning letter issued to Air India, the airline spokesperson in a statement said, "Air India is in receipt of the DGCA letter with regard to rostering issues on two long- haul flights reported in mid-May that arose due to a different interpretation of a permission that was granted to mitigate the border related airspace closure. This was corrected immediately after the right interpretation was conveyed to us. Air India remains fully compliant with the rules." (ANI)
The Uttarakhand state government said that in the interest of the citizens of the state, the time limit for exemption of marriage registration fee of Rs 250 under the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Rules has been extended till January 26, 2026, this decision has been taken by the government in public interest to further encourage the participation of citizens for marriage registration. In this regard, it has been clarified in the notification issued by the Home Department that under the Uniform Civil Code Rules, such persons whose marriage has been registered before the implementation of this code or divorce decree has been declared or marriage has been annulled, or such citizens whose marriage took place before the implementation of this code but whose marriage has not been registered, in such cases, the time limit for exemption of registration fee of Rs 250 prescribed by the notification dated 06 June 2025 for marriage registration is extended till January 26, 2026, with the aim of further encouraging the participation of citizens for marriage registration. When citizens avail the service from CSC centres, the fee of Rs 50 (including GST) will continue to be applicable as before. Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that there is a steady increase in marriage registration under the UCC. He said that the UCC law not only makes the society more legally organised but is also a decisive step towards protecting the rights of women and safeguarding their interests. Every registration under UCC is a symbol of social empowerment for the state, a press release from Uttarakhand CMO said. After the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand on 27 January 2025, a historic increase has been registered in marriage registration. It is noteworthy that before the implementation of UCC, a total of 3,30,064 marriages were registered under the Uttarakhand Marriage Registration Act 2010 from the year 2010 to 26 January 2025, with an average of 67 per day. With the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, the process of marriage registration has been made more simple, transparent, and effective. Due to this, enthusiasm is being seen among the citizens regarding marriage registration. Keeping in mind the convenience of the citizens, the state government has increased the time limit for marriage registration under UCC from the previously prescribed 6 months to 1 year. A notification has been issued by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Department in this regard. (ANI)
The Central government introduced regulatory relaxations to enable the issuance of visas within a day, given proper submission of all documents, stated a release. Furthermore, two new portals--District Police Module (DPM) and Foreigners Identification Portal (FIP) were launched to strengthen the monitoring of illegal immigrants and foreigners overstaying their visas. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Kumar Sanjay, in a review meeting held on Wednesday with senior officials of the Foreigners Division, discussed policies on visa simplification, modernisation of immigration check posts and other related matters. The minister was also briefed by officials on the steps taken to simplify visa procedures. The number of main visa categories has been reduced from 26 to 22, and sub-categories from 104 to 69. Furthermore, due to the simplification of the process, average visa issuance has come down from several weeks to less than a day. As part of the modernisation of Immigration Check Posts (ICPs), facilities for automated travel document scanning and biometric enrolment have been introduced. The number of ICPs has increased from 82 in 2014 to 114 at present (37 Air, 37 Land, 34 Sea, 6 Rail). Officials stated that the Fast-Track Immigration - Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) is being implemented at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Ahmedabad airports, where pre-verified travellers can obtain immigration clearance in just one minute. This facility will soon be extended to Kozhikode, Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Amritsar, Tiruchirappalli, Noida, and Navi Mumbai airports. So far, about 50 lakh Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards have been issued, and the OCI portal has been revamped to provide more convenient services. A user-friendly mobile application, "CAA-2019", has been developed to assist citizenship applicants from six specified minority communities in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. The Union Minister appreciated the officials' performance and directed them to take all necessary steps to ensure that travellers face no difficulties in matters related to visas and immigration. Sanjay further directed that all decisions and development works undertaken by our esteemed Prime Minister and Home Minister Amit Shah should be implemented at the grassroots level and reach the common people. (ANI)
Kyiv is not considering any scenarios that would involve ceding part of its territory to Russia in exchange for ending the war, Azernews reports, citing Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, as he said at a joint press conference with his Czech counterpart, Jan Lipavsky.

Sybiha was responding to a journalists question regarding a recent White House statement on possible concessions. The minister reiterated President Volodymyr Zelenskys stance.

President Zelensky has already given a clear answer, and that answer is the Constitution of Ukraine. The Constitution contains all the responses to your question. Ukraine seeks a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace based on the UN Charter and international law, Sybiha stressed.

He emphasized that the priority at this stage is the introduction of a ceasefire regime that would serve as the foundation for future negotiations. The minister recalled that five months ago Ukraine accepted U.S. President Donald Trumps proposal for an unconditional ceasefire and is now waiting for a similar agreement from Russia.

Of course, what we need here is U.S. participation and leadership, and we are grateful for these efforts, the foreign minister concluded.

Earlier, President Donald Trump had said that an exchange of territories could be part of ending Russias war against Ukraine.
The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army on Wednesday paid solemn tribute to Havildar Ankit Kumar, who made the ultimate sacrifice while foiling the infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Uri sector of Baramulla district. The Indian Army has foiled an infiltration bid in the Uri sector this morning and had killed two terrorists in the same area a few days ago. While foiling the infiltration bid today, Havildar Ankit Kumar lost his life. Search operations are continuing in the area, Army officials have said. In a statement on X, the Chinar Corps said, "Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of Braveheart Havildar Ankit Kumar, who laid down his life while undertaking operational duty along the Line of Control in Uri, Baramulla. Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family." A day ago as well, Chinar Corps mourned the loss of Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, who died while on operational duty along the Line of Control in Baramulla district, while also saluting his bravery, expressing condolences, and extending solidarity to his family. In a post on X, the Army said, "Chinar Corps deeply regret the loss of the precious life of Braveheart Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, while performing operational duty along the Line of Control in Baramulla district. Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family." Meanwhile, on Monday, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi condoled the deaths of two jawans, Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, who were killed in Operation Kulgam during ongoing anti-terrorist operations in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. The Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff posted on X that General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, and all ranks of the Indian Armed Forces saluted the supreme sacrifice of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, who laid down their lives in the line of duty in Kashmir. They expressed their deepest condolences to the bereaved families and stated that they stood firmly by their side in that hour of grief. In its condolence message, ADGP wrote, "General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, and all ranks of the Indian Army pay tribute to Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, who made the supreme sacrifice during duty in Kashmir. The Indian Army expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief and stands firmly with them. General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, and all ranks of the Indian Army salute the supreme sacrifice of Lance Naik Pritpal Singh and Sepoy Harminder Singh, who laid down their lives in the line of duty in Kashmir." (ANI)
According to a release, on August 8, 2025, an armed gang of eight to nine intruders illegally entered Indian territory, stormed Rongdangai village, stabbed and injured one civilian, vandalised property, and attempted to abduct a villager.

From August 9 to 11, 2025, swift and extensive joint action by BSF and Meghalaya Police led to the arrest of four suspects in the initial phase and the recovery of a Bangladesh Police identity card, wireless sets, wire cutters, Indian and Bangladeshi currency notes, suspected explosive substance, and handcuffs.

So far, six miscreants have been apprehended. One of them, identified as Akram from Sherpur, Bangladesh, was captured by villagers but later succumbed to injuries during treatment.

Continuing the operation, on August 12, BSF troops supported by K9 teams, Meghalaya Police from PS Gumaghat and Ranikor, and village Defence Parties sealed all escape routes and recovered one intact suspected country-made explosive. The operation is ongoing to apprehend the remaining intruders.

Inspector General BSF Meghalaya Frontier, OP Upadhyay, is personally supervising the operation and has commended the exemplary courage and cooperation of the troops and civilians.

He reiterated BSF's firm resolve to protect India's borders from cross-border threats.

A day earlier, the BSF forces in Meghalaya launched "Operation Alert" along the Indo-Bangladesh border from August 10-16 to ensure foolproof security in the run-up to Independence Day.

BSF has deployed additional troops in forward border locations, and senior officers from Frontier (FTR) headquarters and Sector headquarters have moved to the border and are supervising the operation.

The operation involves intensified area domination, round-the-clock patrolling, surprise naka checks and riverine patrols to plug gaps in the border. Special emphasis is placed on countering cattle smuggling, contraband movement, and illegal crossings. Vulnerable routes--both land and riverine--are under continuous surveillance through coordinated ground and water patrols, with night vision equipment and mobile patrol teams pressed into service. (ANI)
Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday slammed Union Minister Kiren Rijiju for a voter list controversy involving 124-year-old Minta Devi from Bihar. He questioned why Rijiju didn't apologise for the error in her voter list, highlighting the government's alleged double standards. "You mention her as a 124-year-old in voter list and don't apologise for it. We, who are bringing your misdeeds out in the light, should apologise for it? This is a Government which handcuffs the person with whom a crime occurs and makes them apologise. They hug perpetrators," Khera told ANI. The INDIA bloc MPs staged a protest in Parliament over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, wearing T-shirts to highlight their cause. Earlier on Wednesday, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju in a post on X criticised Congress and opposition MPs for using the photo of Minta Devi during their protest, mocking her alleged age of 124 years on Bihar's voter list, and asked if the party would apologise to the nation. Rijiju's remarks followed Minta Devi's strong reaction from Siwan, Bihar, where she condemned the use of her image by the INDIA bloc MPs during the protest against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. He pointed out that Congress ministers in Karnataka have also accused their own party government of voter list irregularities, highlighting internal contradictions. Rijiju wrote, "Whole day Congress and opposition MPs used the photo of Minta Devi, mocked her that she is 124 years old! The Congress Minister in Karnataka has also accused his own Congress Government. Will Congress apologise to the nation?" In Siwan, Minta Devi said she came to know about the controversy only a few days ago and questioned the right of opposition leaders like Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to use her image on T-shirts without her consent. She said, "Who are they (Opposition MPs) to me? Who is Priyanka Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi to me? Who gave them the right to wear t-shirts featuring me?" Devi stated that she was never contacted by administration officials and expressed her displeasure at being made the face of the controversy. "I think there are discrepancies (in the list). I did not get a phone call from anyone (from the administration). Why are they becoming my well-wisher over my age? This should not be done; I do not want this. I want my details to be corrected. Whoever entered the details, did they do so with their eyes closed?" she said. Devi noted, "If I am 124 years old in the eyes of the government, why are they not giving me an old-age pension? My Aadhaar Card mentions 15-07-1990 as my date of birth." The SIR issue has been a contentious point between the government and the opposition, with the latter demanding its withdrawal. The opposition claims that the SIR is being used to manipulate voter lists and disenfranchise certain groups. The government, on the other hand, maintains that the SIR is a necessary process to ensure the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls. (ANI)
The Assam State Election Commission on Wednesday published the final photo electoral rolls for 40 Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) constituencies containing 26.58 lakh voters. A total of 26,58,477 voters include 13,23,673 male voters, 13,34,787 female voters and 17 other voters included in the final voter list. According to the Assam State Election Commission, there are 3279 polling stations in 40 Bodoland Territorial Council constituencies. The election for 40 council constituencies of the Bodoland Territorial Council is likely to be held in the month of September. Earlier, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam State BJP president Dilip Saikia said that the BJP will fight alone in the BTC elections. In the last council election, the BJP and the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) had formed the Bodoland Territorial Council government. Assam Chief Minister Sarma has attended several election campaign rallies in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), which is constituted with five districts - Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Udalguri and Tamulpur. Earlier, Assam State BJP chief spokesperson Kishore Upadhyay told ANI that this time BJP will contest in 38 out of 40 BTC constituencies. Earlier on August 7, ahead of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections, incumbent Chief Executive Member of the BTC and the President of United People's Party Liberal (UPPL), Pramod Boro, said that the public has experienced change under their government. Speaking to ANI, Boro said that the UPPL government has worked for the people and brought peace in the region, and the people will vote for them. He said, "This is the second election after our government came into power. We have worked for the public for five years. These were the first five years after Independence when the people got a chance to live peacefully. Earlier, there was violence and bloodshed here, but people experienced a change under the UPPL government. I hope UPPL will get a good result in the polls." He claimed that UPPL is the only party that raises the issues of peace, unity and transparency in governance. "National parties and regional parties are campaigning here, but the public is inclined towards UPPL. UPPL is the only party that talks about peace, unity and transparency in governance. These elections would not be difficult for us. In 2015, Brahma ji (Urkhao Gwra Brahma) founded the party, and we celebrated 10 years of UPPL on foundation day on August 5," Pramod Boro said. He added that the development of the region will be the key issue for the upcoming elections. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Wednesday observed that the Election Commission of India's (ECI) move to expand the list of documents acceptable as proof of citizenship from seven to eleven for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar, makes the process more voter-friendly. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said that asking for only one document would be anti-voter, but allowing multiple options benefits electors. "They have expanded the number of documents. It is now 11 instead of seven, by which you can identify yourself as a citizen," noted Justice Bagchi. However, Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi criticised the list and termed it "nothing but a house of cards". He contended that several of the new documents, such as passports, land records, or residents' proof, had negligible coverage in Bihar and emphasised that Aadhaar had the highest reach, but was not being accepted as conclusive proof. The hearing will continue on Thursday on a batch of petitions challenging the poll panel's move to conduct SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar. The petitions challenging the ECI decision were filed by RJD MP Manoj Jha, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), PUCL, activist Yogendra Yadav, Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra, and former Bihar MLA Mujahid Alam. The petitions sought direction to quash the ECI's June 24 directive that requires large sections of voters in Bihar to submit proof of citizenship to remain on the electoral rolls. The petitions also raised concerns over the exclusion of widely held documents like Aadhaar and ration cards, stating that this would disproportionately affect the poor and marginalised voters, especially in rural Bihar. (ANI)
Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday accused the Election Commission of being "scared" over alleged voter fraud, citing examples of multiple voter cards and inflated details, including a Bihar woman recorded as 124 years old. Thackeray, while speaking to reporters, said, "The Election Commission is scared. We will only say, don't be afraid, come forward and admit that you were doing manipulation until now, and you won't do it anymore." Thackeray said these cases show that "vote theft" has been happening and accused the Election Commission of evading accountability after being exposed. He said, "In Varanasi, there is a person who has had 34 children in 16 years; you do the math. In Palghar, there is a woman who has 5 voter cards, Minta Devi, who is 124 years old. We have been talking about this vote theft, and now, after being caught, the Election Commission is running away." Meanwhile, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday shared a video of having tea with some "dead" voters from Bihar and thanked the Election Commission for this "unique" experience. A group of voters met the Congress MP and shared how they were declared "dead" by the Election Commission and how their names were removed from the voter list after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Sharing the 3-4 minutes long video, Gandhi captioned, "There have been many interesting experiences in life, but I never got the chance to have tea with 'dead people.' For this unique experience, thank you Election Commission!" In the video clip posted, the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition LoP was seen meeting a group of several people who claimed that they have officially been marked "dead" in voter lists despite being alive. "I have heard that you guys are not alive. The Election Commission has killed you," the LoP stated. He further asked them how they got to know about it, to which one of them replied that they discovered it through the Election Commission's voters list. After this, Gandhi asked the number of such people, to which another man replied, "There are at least 50 such cases in a single panchayat." They alleged that in the constituency of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, Raghupur, many living voters were shown as "dead" in the list provided by the Election Commission. One of the group members urged the Congress MP and Mahagathbandhan alliance to "save Bihar", to which the LoP affirmed that they are trying to stop the electoral malpractices. This development came amid a row that erupted over Rahul Gandhi's "vote theft" allegations against the Election Commission and alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar. On August 7, the Congress MP at a press conference claimed that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections were "choreographed" by the EC to benefit the BJP, which he said appeared "immune to anti-incumbency." (ANI)
The Supreme Court has clarified that its directive to the authorities in Delhi-NCR to begin removing stray dogs from all localities is not driven by "momentary impulse", rather, it came after thorough and careful deliberation, that the concerned authorities have consistently "failed for over two decades" to effectively address a serious issue that directly impacts public safety. A bench of Justice JB Pardiwala R Madadev said that the apex court has decided to take the matter in its hands becasue of the "systematic failure of the authorities" over the past two decades to address an issue that strikes at the heart of public safety. According to the detailed order released today, the apex court said, the directions given by it, as a court which functions for the welfare of the people, are both in the "interest of humans as well as dogs. This is not personal," it said. The top court further said. "The judiciary must not assume or take on the colouration of the prevailing popular sentiments of the time, for its role is not to echo the passions of the moment but to uphold the enduring principles of justice, conscience and equity". The apex court on August 11 ordered that all localities in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad should be made free of stray dogs and there should not be any compromise. It also made it clear that no captured animal will be released back on the streets. Releasing the detailed order today, the top court said that it has, over a considerable period of time, examined the prevailing circumstances, heard the voices of those who have been directly affected and reflected upon a disturbing pattern of dog bites in the country. The apex court stated, "We have, over a considerable period of time, examined the prevailing circumstances, heard the voices of those who have been directly affected and reflected upon a disturbing pattern of dog bites in this country. Now is not the time for any resistance or hesitation born of complacency. It is a time for decisive and collective action and to confront the realities of our society. If we fail to act with urgency, we risk allowing yet another two decades to slip into the ledger of neglect, leaving future generations to inherit the same problems and the same dangers." The apex court noted that, as per the data available on the website of the Press Information Bureau, there were 37,15,713 reported dog bites in the country in 2024, and in Delhi alone, there were 25,201 dog bites. It said the exercise that the bench proposes to undertake is "not to be performed in a casual manner". The top court further said that it is conscious and sensitive, and the idea behind co-existence is not the existence of one's life at the cost of the other. "In the case in hand, we are attempting to flag the experience of those who use the streets daily. Streets should not prove to be vulnerable places. Among a bundle of concerns, we are at pains to take cognisance of the experiences of visually impaired persons, young children, elderly persons, people from humble backgrounds who are not able to afford even a day's meal, let alone the medical expenses," it said. "The visually impaired persons are at the highest risk of dog bites as their primary support, their canes, are seen as threats by the dogs. Young children are susceptible to dog bites due to which parents find it very difficult to allow their children to navigate on streets on their own. We have come across concerns of elderly persons being attacked by rambunctious dogs," the bench said. It further stated that the top court was not casting aspersions, but there is no way to identify or classify a rabies-carrying dog from others. More particularly, the situation is worse when it comes to persons who are forced to sleep on the streets, said the bench, adding that it is painstaking to note the pangs of such persons who neither have the knowledge of the consequences of dog bites nor have any precautionary or post-exposure measures accessible to them. The apex court further said that, being conscious about the genuine love and care towards stray dogs that many stakeholders of the public share, "we urge them to come forward and become a part of this exercise." The top court's order came in a suo motu proceeding initiated by it over a media report on the growing menace of stray dog attacks leading to rabies. The apex court ordered that the Delhi government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council and authorities of Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad must begin rounding up stray dogs from all localities, especially vulnerable and outskirts areas, and a dedicated force may be created for this purpose. It further ordered that captured dogs are to be sterilised, immunised and de-wormed; stray dogs must not be released back into public spaces under any circumstances. Dog shelters/pounds must be established across NCR within eight weeks. Initial capacity should be for at least 5,000 dogs, to be expanded over time, and shelters must have personnel, CCTV monitoring, adequate food, and medical facilities, it added. It further ordered that at no stage should these dogs be subjected to any mistreatment, cruelty or deplorable standards of care. The concerned authorities need to ensure that there is no overcrowding at the dog shelters/ pounds. The stray dogs brought to these shelters/ pounds shall not be starved. It is the duty of the concerned officials or authorities to ensure the dogs are adequately and regularly fed, and they shall be monitored at all times. The bench also ordered that overcrowding must be avoided, and vulnerable dogs should be housed separately. Adoption may be permitted under the Animal Welfare Board's 2022 protocol, with no re-release to streets, the bench issued direction among others. Meanwhile, the suo motu case taken on the stray dog issue has now been referred to a three-judge bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria, which will hear the matter tomorrow. (ANI)
The Uttarkashi District Administration in Uttarakhand on Wednesday distributed cheques of immediate relief amount to 112 disaster-affected families of Dharali village. As per the announcement of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, each family has been provided with Rs five lakh. The District Administration carried out the distribution of relief cheques as part of the government's efforts to provide support to those affected by the disaster. Earlier in the day, a delegation of Union Bank of India met Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at the Chief Minister's residence. During this, Union Bank of India contributed an amount of Rs 1 crore for the relief work of the disaster in Dharali and Harshil areas of Uttarkashi district. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Union Bank of India for the cooperation given by them. The Chief Minister said that the cooperation being given by various organisations to help the disaster victims is commendable. Earlier on Tuesday, authorities continued air operations to rescue the stranded people in the areas of Dharali and Harsil in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, where flash floods hit on August 5, causing widespread destruction with loss of lives and properties. People trapped in the Dharali-Harsil disaster are being rescued through helicopters and brought to Matli helipad, from where arrangements have also been made to ensure their safe arrival at their destination, said officials. Meanwhile, efforts are being made continuously by the teams of Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam and Irrigation Department to open the lake formed on the Bhagirathi river near the Harshil helipad in Uttarkashi district in a controlled manner, said an official release. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has been in Dharali since August 5, continuously directing all arrangements to provide all possible help to the disaster victims. The official release has stated that the District Magistrate is conducting continuous inspections of the area where the lake on the Bhagirathi river at the Harshil helipad is being manually opened. About 1,278 people have been rescued in operations in Dharali, Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said on Monday. Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey told ANI, "Following a disaster in Dharali, about 1,278 people, including those from other states, stranded at Gangotri Dham, were evacuated. The operation is now complete. Electricity and mobile networks have been restored. He added that the Valley Bridge and road connectivity have been restored, and the district officials are monitoring the distribution of Rs 5 lakh assistance announced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. "The Valley Bridge has been restored, and road connectivity should be fully restored by evening. Essential supplies like food, warm clothing, and daily items have arrived for distribution. District officials monitor the situation as the distribution of Rs 5 lakh assistance, announced by the CM, begins," he said. The Commissioner added, "A three-member committee appointed by the CM has arrived to assess relief and rehabilitation packages. They will submit an initial report in a week and a final report within a month." (ANI)
Ahead of India's 79th Independence Day, in a spirited display of patriotism and unity, the Border Security Force (BSF), Frontier Headquarters Tripura, organised a Motorcycle Rally under the nationwide "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign. The rally was flagged off by Ashwani Kumar Sharma, Inspector General, Frontier HQ BSF Tripura, on Tuesday, the BSF said in a press release. The rally commenced from Albert Ekka Park and passed through Integrated Check Post (ICP) Agartala, BOP Lankamura, BOP Raghu, BOP Bhagalpur and Usha Bazar, culminating at the Salbagan BSF campus. This vibrant initiative highlighted the BSF's commitment to promoting unity and fostering a deep sense of national pride. Earlier, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal launched the Har Ghar Tiranga (Tricolour in Every Home) campaign in Dibrugarh on Wednesday. Sonowal, who represents the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha constituency, visited the residences of former BJP Dibrugarh district president and retired Dibrugarh University professor Dr Harendra Narayan Dutta; noted folk artist Ramchandra Sanchoni; and senior advocate Asim Dutta, the founding president of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Dibrugarh. During the visits, senior BJP leader Sarbananda Sonowal exchanged greetings and presented each of them with the national flag, urging them to join in the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. He also distributed flags to students, encouraging them to embrace patriotism. The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on August 11, announced the 4th edition of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. The campaign, carried out across the country, has become a people's movement, with over 5 lakh young people registering in the fourth year of the campaign, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, "This year, we are going to celebrate the fourth edition of the Tiranga campaign, for which more than 5 lakh youths have registered as volunteers. These youths will inspire people for the Tiranga campaign." (ANI)
The Nation will celebrate the 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the celebrations from the iconic Red Fort in Delhi. The Prime Minister will unfurl the National Flag and address the nation from the ramparts of the iconic monument, said a statement from the Ministry of Defence. As the nation is making giant strides towards realising the Government's vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, the theme of this year's celebrations is 'Naya Bharat'. The celebrations will serve as a platform to commemorate the continuing rise of a prosperous, secure and bold Naya Bharat and provide renewed power to surge further ahead on the path to progress. Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The Defence Secretary will introduce the General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, to the Prime Minister. The GoC, Delhi Area, will then conduct PM Narendra Modi to the Saluting Base, where a combined Inter-Services and Delhi Police Guard will present a general salute to the Prime Minister. Thereafter, the Prime Minister will inspect the Guard of Honour. The Guard of Honour contingent for the Prime Minister will consist of 96 personnel (one officer & 24 personnel each from the Army, Navy, Air Force & Delhi Police. The Indian Air Force is the coordinating service for the Independence Day celebrations this year. The Guard of Honour will be commanded by Wing Commander AS Sekhon. The Army contingent in the Prime Minister's Guard will be commanded by Major Arjun Singh, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander Komaldeep Singh and the Air Force contingent by Squadron Leader Rajan Arora. The Delhi Police contingent will be commanded by Additional DCP Rohit Rajbir Singh. After inspecting the Guard of Honour, the Prime Minister will proceed to the ramparts of the Red Fort where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh will greet him. The GoC, Delhi area, will conduct the Prime Minister to the dais on the ramparts to hoist the National Flag. Flying Officer Rashika Sharma will assist the Prime Minister in hoisting the National Flag. It will be synchronised with the 21-Gun Salute by the valiant gunners of the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial). The ceremonial battery, utilising the indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns, will be commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat, and the Gun Position Officer will be Naib Subedar (Assistant Instructor in Gunnery) Anuthosh Sarkar. The National Flag Guard, comprising one officer and 32 Other Ranks each from the Army, Navy & Air Force and Delhi Police, totalling 128 personnel, will present the Rashtriya Salute at the time of hoisting of the National Flag by the Prime Minister. Wing Commander Tarun Dagar will be in command of this Inter-Services Guard and Police Guard. The Army Contingent in the National Flag Guard will be commanded by Major Prakash Singh, the Naval contingent by Lieutenant Commander Mohd Parvej and the Air Force Contingent by Squadron Leader VV Sharvan. The Delhi Police contingent will be commanded by Additional DCP Abhimanyu Poswal. After being hoisted, the Tricolour will receive a 'Rashtriya Salute'. The Air Force band, consisting of one JCO and 25 Other Ranks, will play the National Anthem during the hoisting of the National Flag and presenting the 'Rashtriya Salute'. Junior Warrant Officer M Deka will conduct the Band. For the first time, 11 Agniveer Vayu musicians will be part of the band which will be playing the National Anthem. As soon as the National Flag is hoisted by the Prime Minister, flower petals will be showered at the venue by two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force - one trooping the national flag and the other trooping a flag depicting 'Operation Sindoor'. The captains of the helicopters will be Wing Commander Vinay Poonia and Wing Commander Aditya Jaiswal. The success of Operation Sindoor will be celebrated during the Independence Day Celebrations this year. The view cutter at Gyanpath will have the Operation Sindoor logo. Floral decoration will also be based on the operation. Invitation cards also carry the Operation Sindoor logo. Invitation cards also carry the watermark of the Chenab Bridge, depicting the rise of 'Naya Bharat'. After the showering of flower petals, the Prime Minister will address the Nation. At the conclusion of his speech, the cadets of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and 'My Bharat' volunteers will sing the National Anthem. A total of 2,500 boy & girl cadets (Army, Navy and Air Force) and 'My Bharat' volunteers will participate in the celebrations. These cadets & 'My Bharat' volunteers will be seated on Gyanpath, opposite the Rampart. They will be forming the 'Naya Bharat' logo. Approx. 5,000 Special Guests from different walks of life have been invited to witness the celebrations at the Red Fort this year. Over 1,500 people from various States/Union Territories dressed in traditional attire have also been invited to witness the grand ceremony. To promote patriotic fervour among citizens and to celebrate the victory of Operation Sindoor, a number of band performances will be conducted pan-India for the first time on the evening of Independence Day celebrations. The performances will be conducted by the bands of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, NCC, CRPF, ITBP, CISF, SSB, BSF, IDS, RPF and Assam Rifles at over 140 prominent locations throughout the country. (ANI)
On August 13, New Caledonias Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) confirmed that it has rejected the Bougeval Agreement, signed in early July with the government and pro-independence representatives, Azernews reports, citing French media outlets.

The decision to withdraw from the accordintended to establish a State of New Caledoniawas adopted during an extraordinary congress of the FLNKS on Saturday and formally announced at a press conference in Noumea on Wednesday.

Dominique Fochi, Secretary-General of the Caledonian Union and a member of the FLNKS Political Bureau, stated that the movement officially rejects the Bougeval Agreement draft because it does not align with the principles and achievements of our struggle.

The proposed text provided for the creation of a State of New Caledonia and Caledonian citizenship, as well as the possible transfer of sovereign powers such as currency, justice, and policing. However, it did not include the holding of a new referendum on independencean omission that has triggered strong backlash among independence supporters.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday stated that Odisha has become an "investment destination" as the government has been planning for a long time to bring the "new-age economy" to the state. He said the Union Cabinet has decided to provide 50 per cent subsidy for three new semiconductor projects in the country, especially in eastern India. "Earlier too, there were industries and businesses in Odisha, they were all related to traditional things... but we have been planning for a long time to bring the new-age economy to Odisha. These days, Odisha has become an investment destination. Yesterday, the Union Cabinet decided to provide a 50% subsidy for three new semiconductor projects in India, especially in eastern India. The state government has also decided to provide a 25% subsidy..." Pradhan told the reporters here. A day earlier, Minister Pradhan lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Union Cabinet approved four new semiconductor projects worth Rs 4,594 crore in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh. These projects will significantly boost India's semiconductor ecosystem, promoting self-reliance and positioning the country as a global technology hub. The minister emphasised that these projects will drive India towards self-reliance and contribute to the vision of a developed India. He underlined the importance of "Swadeshi" in achieving this goal. Two semiconductor units will be set up in Odisha, and one unit will be established in Andhra Pradesh, marking the beginning of semiconductor manufacturing in these states. "I thank the Prime Minister. I also thank the PM for making prestigious institutions like IIT knowledge partners. A semiconductor factory was set up in Assam earlier. After today's decision, it will be set up in Odisha. Two units will come up in Odisha, and one such unit will also come up in Andhra Pradesh. Earlier, it started in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. Today, its implementation is starting in three more states," Pradhan said while addressing a press conference. In a significant push to India's chip-making ambitions, the union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Modi, on Tuesday approved four new semiconductor manufacturing projects with a total investment of Rs 4,600 crore under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The projects will boost domestic production of chips, packaging and advanced materials, generating over 2,000 skilled jobs directly. Out of the four projects that have been approved, two are in Odisha, one in Punjab, and one in Andhra Pradesh. "Four new semiconductor projects have been approved. You know that six projects are already approved, and four new ones have been added to it today. These are in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab, at an investment of Rs 4,594 Crore," Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said at a press conference. The approvals take the total India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) portfolio to 10 projects across six states with cumulative investments of Rs 1.6 lakh crore. The government said the move is in line with its vision of building a robust and self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem to support sectors ranging from defence to consumer electronics.. Two of the approved projects will come up in Odisha's Info Valley, Bhubaneswar, making the state an emerging hub for the sector. (ANI)
Assam Minister of Water Resources Pijush Hazarika on Wednesday inaugurated the office of the Co-District Commissioner at Rangapara in Sonitpur district. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Hazarika stated that the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is undertaking measures to improve governance through infrastructure development and timely policy implementation. The creation of co-districts is one such step intended to bring administrative services closer to the public, he added. Notably, in the first phase, 39 Co-Districts were inaugurated on October 4 and 5, 2024, followed by 10 more in the second phase on August 12 and 13, 2025, bringing the total number to 49. The Minister said that the people of Rangapara would no longer be required to travel to the District Commissioner's office in Tezpur for administrative matters, as these can now be addressed through the Co-District Commissioner's office, thereby reducing both time and travel expenses. He stated that schemes such as Orunodoi, Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan, and Nijut Moina have brought transformation across various sectors. He added that recruitment in the State is now based solely on merit, with corruption and irregularities in the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) eliminated. He also referred to visible improvements in road infrastructure, including in Rangapara, and mentioned that 16 medical colleges and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have been established, with plans to increase medical seat availability. In addition, Minister Hazarika highlighted that 1,000 kilometres of new embankments have been constructed in the past five years, which he stated has reduced flooding in the State to a great extent. He expressed the government's aim to achieve the complete elimination of flooding should the current administration continue in office. He further mentioned ongoing measures to evict illegal encroachers from government land, in order to safeguard the identity of indigenous communities. Minister Pijush Hazarika was joined by MLA Krishna Kamal Tanti, the District Commissioner of Sonitpur district, the Superintendent of Police, the Co-District Commissioner, and other dignitaries. (ANI)
A perjury application has been filed against Congress MP and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of misleading the court in a defamation case linked to his remarks on freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar "Veer" Savarkar. Advocate Sangram Kolhatkar, representing Satyaki Savarkar -- the grandnephew of "Veer" Savarkar -- filed the application against the Congress leader on Wednesday, alleging that he misled the court by repeatedly denying receipt of evidence linked to his controversial speeches in London. According to the application, despite the court records showing that Gandhi had been provided with relevant evidence, including copies of the speeches on multiple occasions, he continued to maintain that he had never received them. Advocate Kolhatkar alleged that instead of acknowledging these documents, Gandhi submitted a pursis (written statement) accusing Satyaki Savarkar of contempt of court. Advocate Kolhatkar requested the court to initiate perjury proceedings against Gandhi for allegedly making false statements. While speaking to ANI, Advocate Sangram Kolhatkar said, " We have filed a perjury application against the accused Rahul Gandhi. Earlier, we had supplied the relevant copies to the advocate of the accused. He had received all the copies. He has signed the document before the Court...He blatantly denies receiving any such material provided by us. The accused is misleading the court. Hence, we very strictly demand that action be initiated against the accused, as the accused holds a constitutional post, the leader of the opposition. So, we have filed a perjury application against Rahul Gandhi. On the 10th of September, the advocate for the accused is going to file a reply to this." Earlier, a defamation case was filed against Rahul Gandhi after his remarks in London in March 2023, where he reportedly made statements about Indian democracy and political leaders that Satyaki Savarkar claims were defamatory towards his granduncle, Veer Savarkar. These remarks were reportedly made during an Overseas Congress gathering in London on March 5, 2023. Following the statement made by Rahul Gandhi, Satyaki Savarkar, the grandson of one of Vinayak Savarkar's brothers, filed a defamation complaint in a Magistrate court in Pune in April 2023, later in the Special MP MLA court, alleging that Gandhi's remarks insulted the legacy of the freedom fighter and caused hurt to his followers. According to the complaint, Gandhi intentionally made false and damaging accusations against Savarkar to tarnish his reputation, causing mental distress to him and his family. The court is now expected to hear arguments on the next hearing date, i.e., 10 September. (ANI)
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) headquarters has extended full support to the Haryana State Branch in its efforts to secure timely payments and proper budgetary allocations under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. In a letter dated August 13, 2025, addressed to IMA Haryana president Dr. Mahaveer Jain, IMA national president Dr. Dilip Bhanushali expressed serious concern over persistent delays in payments to empanelled hospitals in Haryana and other states. "IMA Headquarters expresses its full support and solidarity with IMA Haryana in your just and rightful efforts to secure appropriate budgetary allocations and ensure timely payments to hospitals empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme," the letter stated. "These delays severely impact the functioning of hospitals, demoralize healthcare providers, and, more critically, jeopardize the delivery of essential services to the underprivileged." The national body urged IMA Haryana to "actively and persistently pursue the matter" with state authorities to ensure that the crisis is addressed without any further delay. "No stone should be left unturned in your efforts to bring this matter to a just and timely resolution," it said. Assuring full backing from the national body, the IMA HQ reaffirmed its commitment to standing with IMA Haryana in its pursuit of justice for the medical fraternity. The letter concluded with a promise of all necessary support to resolve the issue swiftly and effectively. Earlier, on August 6, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Haryana decided to suspend Ayushman Bharat health services in the state, citing non-payment of dues to private hospitals. In an official statement, the IMA Haryana mentioned that a meeting was held between ACS Sudhir Rajpal and officials of Ayushman Bharat Haryana High Authority. The IMA was informed that around Rs 245 crore have been received by the Ayushman Bharat Haryana High Authority, out of which Rs 175 crore is Haryana government's share and Rs 70 crore is the Central government's share as budget for this quarter. However, it was also told that around Rs 490 crore arrears to private hospitals are still pending. On August 2, around 650-700 private hospitals in Haryana were set to withdraw from the Ayushman Bharat scheme starting August 7 due to pending dues of over Rs 500 crore. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Haryana claimed that despite multiple assurances from government officials, payments continue to be delayed, with some hospitals experiencing delays of up to 4-5 months. Speaking to ANI, Dr Ashok Mahajan, who was the Former President of Haryana IMA, said, " IMA Haryana does not want to withdraw Ayushman services; it is being forced to! Hospitals have bills running into crores and are unable to pay their doctors, staff and vendors. They are forced to take this step to prevent further losses. They seem to be funding this government scheme; SHA pays late, and deductions are made without any reason." Over 1.2 crore people in Haryana are enrolled in the scheme, including low-income families and senior citizens. The withdrawal of private hospitals may lead to difficulties in accessing healthcare services, putting additional pressure on government hospitals. The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is a flagship scheme of the government. It provides health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to around 55 crore beneficiaries belonging to 12.37 crore families belonging to the economically weaker 40 per cent population of the country. (ANI)
US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Tuesday (local time) said that the upcoming meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump on August 15 in Alaska was "suggested by Putin himself." While addressing the US State Department briefing, Bruce said, "It was Putin who suggested this meeting." "He (President Trump) is going to meet with President Putin to see what he has in mind, and if it's a fair deal, he will reveal it to the European Union leaders, NATO, and President Zelensky. He says, 'I'm going in to speak to Putin and I'm going to be telling him, you've got to end this war. You've got to end it," he added. Bruce also highlighted Trump's frustration with Putin's actions, noting that "he has not been happy with President Putin and his actions." Meanwhile, Trump said that while addressing the White House briefing on Monday, "We're going to have a meeting with Vladimir Putin. And at the end of that meeting, probably in the first two minutes, I'll know exactly whether or not a deal can be made," he added. When asked if he sees a time when there could be normal trade between the US and Russia, Trump said, "I do. Russia has a very valuable piece of land. If Vladimir Putin went toward business instead of toward war, you know, it's a warring nation. That's what they do. They fight a lot of wars. A friend of mine said Russia is tough because they just keep on fighting." Further, Trump expressed optimism about the meeting and said, "I'd like to see a ceasefire. I'd like to see the best deal that could be made for both parties." On the same day, Trump said that American tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil had delivered a "big blow" to Moscow, saying, "No one would have been so tough and I haven't stopped there." US President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that American tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil had delivered a "big blow" to Moscow, saying, "No one would have been so tough and I haven't stopped there." He said Russia has been "heavily impacted" by global pressure, including US trade actions on multiple countries. (ANI)
Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, Finance Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and a Ministerial delegation from Singapore arrived in New Delhi for the 3rd India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) on Wednesday. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1955329527254540387?s=19 Sharing pictures of the Singapore leaders' arrival, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, "A warm welcome to DPM Mr. Gan Kim Yong, FM @VivianBala and the Ministerial delegation from Singapore as they arrive in New Delhi for the 3rd India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR)." "ISMR, a unique mechanism, continues to strengthen the India-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," he added. On Wednesday, Balakrishnan will take part in the 3rd India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) at Hyderabad House, starting at 9:50 am, followed by an official photo session. Later that day, he will call on the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where another official photo opportunity is planned. This visit coincides with the third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR), which will be held in New Delhi on August 13, marking an important ministerial-level platform to drive cooperation in new and emerging areas between the two countries, according to an official statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Singapore. The third ISMR will review the progress made since the second roundtable held in Singapore in August 2024 and identify new growth opportunities to deepen bilateral collaboration, the statement added. Leading the Singapore delegation is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong. The delegation also includes Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng, and Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow. The Indian delegation comprises Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, and Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Railways, and Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw. This roundtable continues the momentum of high-level visits and exchanges between India and Singapore, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. The milestone reflects the importance both nations place on their bilateral ties and joint commitment to expand collaboration for mutual benefit, the statement said. (ANI)
Max Abrahms, Professor and Author of Book On Terrorist Dynamics, said that US' treatment towards India at the end of Operation Sindoor demonstrates a lack of expertise in terms of understanding how to act towards India. Abrahms, in conversation with ANI, said that India does not feel respected by the way it is being treated. "Pakistan became very vocally supportive of the US role and recommended a Nobel Prize for Trump, whereas India really chipped at the level of US involvement and especially Trump claiming so much credit for the course of that short war. I think that it demonstrates a lack of expertise in terms of understanding how not to act towards India," he said. He said that the US doesn't know how to talk about India, or to India in the most productive way. "I think that India feels like it's not being fully respected and that the Trump administration doesn't fully appreciate its contributions and also doesn't really regard India as a fully independent country on the world stage, even though it's the largest democracy in the world with the largest population and soon will be the third largest economy. So I don't think that the Trump administration knows how to speak about India or to India in the most productive way," he said. Abrahms said that he was not sure how involved Trump was in the cessation of the India-Pakistan conflict or the other conflicts around the world that he claimed cessation responsibility for. "Well, I was not party to the high-level interference by or involvement by the Trump administration in that conflict. So I cannot really say with any level of confidence exactly what the Trump administration's role was. What I do know and which general public knows as well, is that President Trump claimed a lot of personal responsibility for the end of that conflict, for the cessation of military blows by both India and Pakistan," he said. Abrahms said that the India-US relations are dependent on the US-Russia meeting, as the bone of contention between US and India is Russian oil. "We need to be a little bit patient in terms of the meetings between Trump and Putin. In a weird way, that war in Russia is connected to US-India relations because a lot of the current problem from the perspective of Washington is the Indian purchasing of Russian oil, which fuels the war in Ukraine," he said. He further said that he hoped for a breakthrough, especially for the Quad, as it is important to counterbalance China in the region. "I think that I'm certainly hoping for some kind of a breakthrough in those conversations. And if so, I believe that that will improve that'll set the US and India back on the correct course also paying attention not just to the tariffs, but to the quad relationship between the US, India, Japan and Australia. That alliance is seen as very important for counterbalancing against China," he said. Abrahms said that it is imperative for the US to mend its relations in the Indo-Pacific as it is essential to control China. "Its viability or at least its strength has been cast in doubt by this turn for the worse in US-India relations as well as the conflict between US and Japan. But you know the China threat isn't going away and the United States on especially under this administration, sees China as a threat that needs to be contained. And that is going to require the US to mend relations with allies in the Indo-Pacific region. And so in that sense, I have to be optimistic moving forward," he said. He further said that in a globalised world, the US cannot become isolated or have asymmetrical trade relations with other countries. "And on top of that, we live in a globalized world and if something's bad for the Indian economy, it's also not good for the US economy. I do not see, you know, the global economic system in zero sum terms. And so it is actually in the US interest for Indian economic growth to continue apace. That is a very basic concept, which I think is poorly understood by elements within the Trump administration," he said. He added that Trump's agenda of 'America First' is a dangerous path to tread, as it might have a negative effect on other countries and military relations. "Trump administration goes by this concept of America first. They think America could essentially seal itself off from the rest of the world, become more economically independent, or constantly push for asymmetry in trade relations. But that's a dangerous path to go down. It can have not just a negative effect on the financial system, but also in terms of military ties," he said. (ANI)
International security scholar Max Abrahms has said that President Donald Trump's second administration appears to be "tilting towards Pakistan and away from India," citing recent diplomatic, military, and trade signals that he says undermine years of strategic investment in the US-India relationship. In an interview with ANI, Abrahms said he was not surprised by remarks from Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir, who made a nuclear threat from American soil. "I'm not surprised that Pakistani officials are engaging in sabre rattling and playing the nuclear threat card, we've heard that before," he said. "What we had not heard before is this sort of nuclear threat from American soil. And if this was the only incident, I would find it rather unremarkable. But what we are currently witnessing is a trend where it appears that this second Trump administration is tilting towards Pakistan and away from India. We've actually seen it throughout this whole summer." Abrahms, author of a book on terrorist dynamics, said he could not fully understand the administration's approach. " US-India relations are the product of a tremendous amount of effort and investment," he said, recalling that during Trump's campaign season, deepening trade and military ties with India, particularly through the Quad, were presented as central to Washington's Indo-Pacific strategy to contain China. "The pillar of US containment of China in the Pacific, we were told, was a strong US-India relationship," he added. Drawing a parallel with Japan's post-World War II role as a bulwark against Chinese expansion, Abrahms said the current tariff policy towards India was "unfair, offensive, and destabilising." Abrahms also noted Trump's unpredictability, suggesting the president could still reverse course. "Sometimes he very rapidly, even instantaneously, changes his rhetoric and overall positions towards a country," he said. "It is possible that Trump will end up massively alleviating the threatened tariffs against India... especially if there is some progress in that big Alaska meeting between Trump and Putin." Still, Abrahms warned that even a rollback of the 25% tariff on Indian purchases of Russian oil would not immediately repair the diplomatic damage. " "I am at least hopeful that the US and India will right this course because I think that India is too important to the United States for there to be any kind of a permanent bump in the relationship. I will say, however, that even if some of the tariffs, a substantial amount of the tariffs like that 25% I mentioned, are lifted, I still think that the US-India relationship may not fully recover for quite some time under this administration, " he said Because the message to India is that the United States isn't reliable, and that is happening at the same time that the US is inviting the Army Chief of Staff of Pakistan for high-level meetings, including with the President in the United States," he added, pointing to Washington's invitations to Pakistan's Army Chief for high-level meetings and its willingness to discuss enhanced trade with Islamabad, despite the recent designation of a Pakistan-based group as a foreign terrorist organisation. He cited Operation Sindoor as a turning point in the Trump administration's handling of South Asia. "I think that a key turning point was Operation Sindor, where the Trump administration, India-Pakistan conflict, as if those two countries are on equal footing, on equal terms with the United States. And that the conflict itself is that no one party is more culpable than the other, when the entire conflict was set off by Pakistan-backed terrorists killing large numbers of Hindu civilians. And then the Trump administration came in and claimed credit for reducing the conflict. " Abrahms said. "Pakistan was very, very happy with the Trump administration's interventions. They even talked publicly about recommending Trump for the Nobel Prize, Abrahms said. (ANI)
The United States and Pakistan held the latest round of the US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad on Tuesday (local time), reaffirming their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The dialogue was co-chaired by Special Secretary for the United Nations, Nabeel Munir, and US Department of State Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory D. LoGerfo, according to the Joint Statement on US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue, released by the Governments of the United States and Pakistan. Both delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Joint statement added. The United States applauded Pakistan's continued successes in containing terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world. Further, the United States expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the barbaric Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar. Further, the Joint statement read, both delegations emphasised the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to work closely in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to promote effective and enduring approaches to counterterrorism, it added. Reaffirming the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the United States, both sides emphasised that sustained and structured engagement remains vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability, the Joint statement stated. Meanwhile, Tammy Bruce said that the United States' relationship with both Pakistan and India "remains unchanged," adding that the "diplomats are committed to both nations." Her remarks came after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's comments in Florida, where he reportedly said Pakistan could use nuclear weapons to take down India and "half the world" in the event of an existential threat. Highlighting the US-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue, which was established in Islamabad on Tuesday, she affirmed, "The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad. The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats." "For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future that's beneficial," she added. (ANI)
State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that the United States' relationship with both Pakistan and India "remains unchanged," adding that the "diplomats are committed to both nations." Her remarks came after Pakistan Army chief Gen Asim Munir's comments in Florida, where he reportedly said Pakistan could use nuclear weapons to take down India and "half the world" in the event of an existential threat. Speaking at the State Department briefing, Bruce stated that "We had an experience with Pakistan and India, when there was a conflict, that could have developed into something quite horrible. There was immediate concern and movement with the Vice President JD Vance, the President Donald Trump and the Secretary of State Marco Rubio in addressing the nature of what was happening."Bruce emphasised the success of diplomatic efforts in preventing the conflict from escalating, stating, "We described the nature of the phone calls and the work we did to stop the attacks, bringing the parties together to create something enduring. It's a very proud moment that Secretary Rubio, Vice President Vance and the top leaders in this nation were involved in stopping that potential catastrophe." She also noted that the US relationship with "both nations remains unchanged - good. The diplomats are committed to both nations." Highlighting the US-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue, which was established in Islamabad on Tuesday, she affirmed, "The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations during the latest rounds of talks in Islamabad. The US and Pakistan discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter terrorist threats." "For the region and for the world, the US working with both those nations is good news and will promote a future that's beneficial," she added. Notably, Munir visited the US for the second time in less than two months. The trip comes after a private luncheon with Trump in June. Munir arrived in Washington on Sunday for a series of high-level meetings with the US top political and military leadership. (ANI)
China allocates 170 mln yuan to support disaster relief efforts

Xinhua) 10:14, August 13, 2025

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Emergency Management allocated 170 million yuan (about 23.8 million U.S. dollars) of natural disaster relief funds to seven provincial-level regions on Tuesday.

Since Aug. 9, heavy rainfall has hit areas ranging from Sichuan and Chongqing in southwest China to Jiangsu and Anhui in east China, triggering floods and geological disasters.

These funds will support Jiangsu, Anhui, central China's Hubei, Chongqing, Sichuan, Guizhou in southwest China and Gansu in the country's northwest in terms of emergency rescue and relief -- including the search for and transfer and resettlement of affected people, screening and emergency measures concerning secondary-disaster risks, and repairs to damaged housing, according to the two ministries.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday claimed that any attempt to stop the flow of water into Pakistan is in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, and would be met with a "decisive response". Addressing an event in Islamabad, he said: "Enemy [India] can't snatch even a single drop of water from Pakistan." He said, "You threatened to stop our water. If you attempt such a move, Pakistan will teach you a lesson you will never forget." PM Shehbaz emphasised that water was a lifeline for Pakistan, and no compromise would be made on the country's rights under international agreements, as per Geo News. Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April, which killed 26 people, India has, in exercise of its rights as a sovereign nation under international law, placed the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960, following nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan, with the assistance of the World Bank, which is also a signatory. Former World Bank President Eugene Black initiated the talks. Recognised as one of the most successful international treaties, it has endured frequent tensions, including conflict, and has provided a framework for irrigation and hydropower development for over half a century. Former US President Dwight Eisenhower described it as "one bright spot in a very depressing world picture that we see so often." The Treaty allocates the Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India. At the same time, the Treaty allows each country certain uses of the rivers allocated to the other. The treaty gives India 20 per cent of the water from the Indus River System and the rest 80 per cent to Pakistan. The IWT was in the spotlight in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack in 2019. The Treaty has been criticised for being too generous to Pakistan, even when it has continued to promote terror in India. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], August 13 (ANI/TPS): Israel's Ministry of Health released a chilling report revealing the brutal conditions endured by 12 hostages recently freed from Hamas captivity in Gaza on Tuesday. The report exposes a pattern of severe physical and psychological abuse, starvation, and medical neglect faced by men and women held hostage since the October 2023 conflict. "This is a difficult report to read, even more difficult than the things I am detailing here," said Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, head of the ministry's medical division, who authored the report. "The abductees suffered hunger, abuse, beatings, severe violence, tying up - and the health condition of some of them is very serious." The survivors described relentless sexual harassment, humiliation, and intimidation. One female captive recounted months of abuse by her captors, while both men and women faced degrading remarks and constant threats. The Ministry raised serious concerns about lasting damage to the reproductive health of female survivors. Hostages were confined in cramped underground tunnels -- sometimes just two square meters -- with extreme overcrowding or total isolation lasting over a year. Hygiene was virtually non-existent; captives were allowed to shower only once every few months, often sharing a single towel. Women's personal hygiene needs were entirely ignored. Deliberate starvation was routine. Prisoners received only one meager meal daily -- typically stale pita or rice often infested with worms -- and limited, contaminated water. Some endured entire days without food. This extreme deprivation led to dramatic weight loss, muscle wasting, vitamin deficiencies, including scurvy, weakened bones, and numerous other serious health issues, the report said. "The extreme starvation endangers all their bodily systems and threatens their lives. Starvation damages the nervous system, brain, heart, lungs, and immune system. Any infection could prove fatal." Mizrahi warned, "Each day in captivity puts their survival at greater risk," Physical injuries were widespread. Many hostages returned to Israel with gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries sustained during the initial abduction. Medical care was largely absent or inadequate, forcing some prisoners to treat their own wounds, sometimes losing consciousness. Infectious diseases, respiratory ailments, and skin conditions went untreated, causing hallucinations and chronic pain. Captives lived under constant threat. The report recounted how guards brandished weapons and detonated grenades nearby to spread terror. Several hostages were bound so tightly that they lost sensation in their limbs. Many witnessed the brutal killing of family members and friends to manipulate and break their spirits. The report also cited profound mental trauma among survivors. Many suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, including nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and deep survivor's guilt. The report notes that psychological symptoms may worsen over time, underscoring the need for long-term care. In light of these findings, the Ministry urgently called on the International Committee of the Red Cross to provide immediate medical aid, food, and water to the remaining hostages in Gaza and to facilitate their release for proper treatment. Approximately 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 50 remaining hostages, around 30 are believed to be dead. (ANI/TPS)
Investigators have found evidence suggesting Russia's involvement in a recent breach of the US federal court document system, which contained highly sensitive records with information that could reveal sources and people charged with national security crimes, The New York Times reported, citing several people who briefed on the breach. The disclosure comes as US President Donald Trump is expected to meet with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Alaska on Friday, where Trump is planning to discuss his push to end the war in Ukraine. While it's unclear whether an arm of Russian intelligence is behind the hack or if other countries were involved, some of the people familiar with the matter described it as a years-long effort to infiltrate the system. According to The New York Times, some of the searches included midlevel criminal cases in the New York City area and several other jurisdictions, with some cases involving people with Russian and Eastern European surnames. Court administrators recently warned Justice Department officials, clerks, and chief judges in federal courts that "persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records," according to an internal department memo. The administrators also advised those officials to quickly remove the most sensitive documents from the system, as per The New York Times. "This remains an URGENT MATTER that requires immediate action," officials wrote, referring to guidance that the Justice Department had issued in early 2021 after the system was first infiltrated. The breach is believed to have exposed sensitive information, including documents related to criminal activity with overseas ties, across at least eight district courts. Last month, the chief judges of district courts across the country were quietly warned to move those kinds of cases off the regular document-management system, according to officials briefed on the request. They were initially told not to discuss the matter with other judges in their districts. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], August 13 (ANI/TPS): A resident of an Arab neighbourhood in Jerusalem in her 30s was arrested on suspicion of posting praise, sympathy and support for the terrorists who carried out the 2017 Temple Mount attack, in which two police officers were killed. She allegedly posted numerous posts online that contained incitement and support for terrorism and terrorists. Among the incitement posts she made was an interview with family members of the terrorists who carried out the 2017 Temple Mount attack, along with words of praise for the terrorists. (ANI/TPS)
The MND said that six out of 14 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ.

https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1955434140427297163

In a post on X, the MND said, "14 sorties of PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 out of 14 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

On Tuesday, the MND detected 14 sorties of PLA aircraft, five PLAN vessels operating around its territory.

In a post on X, MND said, "14 sorties of PLA aircraft and 5 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 14 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded."

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Western nations to have "courage" to stand with Taiwan and "deepen" their economic partnership with the island nation as China intensifies its pressure on Taiwan, Taipei Times reported.

Speaking at the 9th Ketagalan Forum 2025 Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue in Taipei on Tuesday, Johnson emphasised the importance of backing Taiwan's democracy and innovation.

Johnson stressed the need for peaceful dialogue across the Taiwan Strait, asking why Beijing feels compelled to conquer a nation that poses no threat, and reiterated that his mission in Taiwan is to affirm Western solidarity. (ANI)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has put Israel and Russia "on notice" that their armed forces and security personnel could be listed among parties "credibly suspected" of committing sexual violence in conflict zones, Al Jazeera reported. In his annual report to the UN Security Council on conflict-related sexual violence, Guterres said that Israel and Russia could be listed next year among the parties "credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence." In his warning to Israel, Guterres said he was "gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Israeli armed and security forces" against Palestinians in several prisons, a detention centre and a military base. "Cases documented by the United Nations indicate patterns of sexual violence such as genital violence, prolonged forced nudity and repeated strip searches conducted in an abusive and degrading manner," Guterres wrote, according to Al Jazeera. Because Israel has denied access to UN monitors, it has been "challenging to make a definitive determination" about patterns, trends and the systematic use of sexual violence by its forces, he said, urging Israel's government "to take the necessary measures to ensure immediate cessation of all acts of sexual violence, and make and implement specific time-bound commitments." The UN chief said these should include investigations of credible allegations, clear orders and codes of conduct for military and security forces that prohibit sexual violence, and unimpeded access for UN monitors. In March, UN-backed human rights experts accused Israel of "the systematic use of sexual, reproductive and other gender-based violence." The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel said it documented a range of violations perpetrated against Palestinian women, men, girls and boys, and accused Israeli forces of rape and sexual violence against Palestinian detainees, Al Jazeera reported. Israel's ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, dismissed the Secretary-General's concerns as "baseless accusations" on Tuesday. Danon, who circulated a letter he received from Guterres and his response to the UN chief, said the allegations "are steeped in biased publications." "The UN must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages," the Israeli ambassador said. Danon stressed that "Israel will not shy away from protecting its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law." In July 2024, the Israeli military said it had detained and was questioning nine soldiers over the alleged sexual abuse of a Palestinian detainee at the Sde Teiman prison facility, which was set up to detain people arrested in Gaza. Israeli media reported at the time that a Palestinian prisoner was taken to hospital after suffering severe injuries from what was an alleged gang rape by military guards at the prison, Al Jazeera reported. In the case of Russia, Guterres wrote that he was "gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Russian armed and security forces and affiliated armed groups," primarily against Ukrainian prisoners of war, in 50 official and 22 unofficial detention facilities in Ukraine and Russia. "These cases comprised a significant number of documented incidents of genital violence, including electrocution, beatings and burns to the genitals, and forced stripping and prolonged nudity, used to humiliate and elicit confessions or information," he said. Russia's mission to the UN in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. Guterres said that Russian authorities have not engaged with his special envoy on the matter. (ANI)
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Tuesday forecast widespread rain, wind and thundershowers in most parts of the country in the coming days, with monsoon activity expected to intensify from August 17, Dawn reported. At least 312 people, including 142 children, have died and 740 others have been injured in flash floods and torrential rains that have battered several parts of Pakistan since late June, according to updated daily data from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The NDMA said the deluges, which began on June 26, have left a trail of devastation across the country. The dead include 113 men, 57 women and 142 children, while the injured include 243 children, 209 women and 288 men, Dawn reported. In its latest weather advisory issued Tuesday, the Met Office said monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea were continuously penetrating the upper parts of Pakistan, while moist currents from the Bay of Bengal were likely to strengthen midweek. A westerly wave currently affecting the region was also expected to intensify from August 17. Under these conditions, rain-wind/thundershower with scattered heavy falls was expected in Islamabad, upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan from August 14 to 17. The wet spell was expected to last from August 18 to 21 in many northern areas, including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, and several districts of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, Dawn reported. From August 18 to 21, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would witness widespread rains, with heavy to very heavy falls in districts such as Dir, Swat, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar and Mardan. Southern districts, including Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan, Tank and Dera Ismail Khan, would also receive showers with occasional heavy spells. Punjab, including Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Faisalabad, was likely to experience heavy rains from August 18 to 21, with scattered activity in southern districts. Parts of Balochistan, including Barkhan, Zhob, Khuzdar, Gwadar and Panjgur, as well as several Sindh districts, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana and Tharparkar, were also expected to receive showers between August 18 and 22, Dawn reported. The PMD warned that heavy rains may generate flash floods in local streams and nullahs of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat and northeast Punjab from August 15 to 21, and hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan and eastern Balochistan from August 18 to 21. Urban flooding was also expected in low-lying areas of Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Peshawar and Nowshera during the same period. Landslides and mudslides might disrupt roads in hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree and Galliyat, while heavy falls, windstorms and lightning may damage weak structures such as rooftops, walls of mudhouses, electric poles, billboards, vehicles and solar panels. The public, travellers and tourists were advised to avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas and remain updated about the latest weather conditions. All relevant authorities were urged to stay on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents, Dawn reported. (ANI)
California Governor Gavin Newsom trolled US President Donald Trump on Tuesday with a social media post declaring a "SECOND-TO-LAST WARNING" in the ongoing blue state/red state battle over redistricting, The Hill reported. "DONALD TRUMP, THE LOWEST POLLING PRESIDENT IN RECENT HISTORY, THIS IS YOUR SECOND-TO-LAST WARNING!!! (THE NEXT ONE IS THE LAST ONE!)," Newsom's press office posted on the social platform X. "STAND DOWN NOW OR CALIFORNIA WILL COUNTER-STRIKE (LEGALLY!) TO DESTROY YOUR ILLEGAL CROOKED MAPS IN RED STATES." https://x.com/GavinNewsom/status/1955287477482295558 The post continued, "PRESS CONFERENCE COMING HOSTED BY AMERICA'S FAVORITE GOVERNOR, GAVIN NEWSOM. FINAL WARNING NEXT. YOU WON'T LIKE IT!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER." According to The Hill, Trump frequently uses his Truth Social feed to issue similarly styled missives about policies and to air political grievances. Among the hallmarks of Trump's posts that Newsom sarcastically copied were thanking followers for their "attention to this matter," curious uses of punctuation, capitalization and parenthetical asides, and references to himself as the "favorite" president. Newsom also appeared to mock Trump's waffling warnings and deadlines that prompted the spread of the "TACO" moniker, short for "Trump Always Chickens Out." The White House did not immediately respond to The Hill's request for comment on Newsom's post. Newsom, who is seen as a potential contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, sent a letter to Trump on Monday urging the president to end the redistricting tit for tat that has swelled in states amid a battle over Trump's call for Texas to draw a map more favorable to Republicans. "This attempt to rig congressional maps to hold onto power before a single vote is cast in the 2026 election is an affront to American democracy," the governor wrote, The Hill reported. Newsom also took aim Tuesday at Trump's recent emergency declaration in the nation's capital to allow federal intervention in D.C.'s crime-fighting efforts as well as the president's threats to expand his efforts to other Democrat-led cities. "President Trump is peddling the same tired lie he used in Los Angeles claiming there's rampant lawlessness in Democratic cities like Washington, D.C.," Newsom said in a news release, highlighting high crime rates in GOP-led states. "His authoritarian orders aren't about safety they're an attack on the very foundation of our nation and a slap in the face to democracy." (ANI)
National health stakeholders on Tuesday called for greater advocacy and public awareness to ensure the success of Sindh's upcoming human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, set to launch in September for schoolgirls aged nine to 14, Dawn reported. The HPV vaccine protects against genital warts and most cases of cervical cancer. Estimates cited by Dawn indicate that every year in Pakistan, 5,008 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 3,197 die from the disease. It is the third most common cancer among women nationwide and the second among those aged 15 to 44. An event titled Safeguarding Girls' Futures, organised by Aga Khan University's Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, aimed to raise awareness about HPV, share global evidence on the vaccine and address cultural, religious and gender-related concerns. The event was attended in person and virtually by public health experts, representatives of non-governmental organisations and government officials, including Muslima Ejaz, Fyezah Jehan, Karim F. Damji, Sindh Health Secretary Rehan Iqbal Baloch, Quamrun Nahar, Paul Bloem and Afshan Issani. "Science is offering us the chance to prevent cervical cancer before it begins," said Ejaz, as quoted by Dawn. "Globally, cervical cancer claims over 300,000 women's lives each year, with the greatest toll in low and middle-income countries. In Pakistan, it remains the leading cancer in women, often diagnosed far too late. But today, we are not here to speak only of disease. We are here to speak about prevention." Jehan said HPV infection rates depend on factors such as age, gender, sexual behaviour and geography. "There are more than 200 types [of HPV] which are known to us, and these are mostly classified for risk purposes into low-risk and high-risk types," she said. "Infections in the low-risk [type] are mostly asymptomatic and self-resolving. However, HPV 16 and 18 -- the virus strains of particular interest -- are among 14 high-risk HPV types responsible for 70-80 per cent of all cervical cancer cases. These deaths are entirely preventable, but only if we act early." Baloch said, "The target [of the vaccine campaign] is around four million, out of which 50pc are in school and 50pc are out of school. Mostly the focus would be on girls aged nine to 14 years." He noted that Gavi, a global health partnership, was providing support, but stressed the need for stronger advocacy from parents, teachers, paediatricians and gynaecologists. Jehan said the cost and supply of the HPV vaccine were not an issue, with global donor agencies, particularly Gavi, ensuring doses were available free of charge through the Expanded Programme on Immunisation. "This is a vaccine that people used to pay Rs7,000 for; now it is completely free and easily accessible," she told Dawn. She cautioned that public perception could pose a barrier and said reaching the two million out-of-school girls would be a major challenge. Issani said, "There are very few strategies that can be used to prevent cancer, and the cervical cancer vaccine is one of them." Last month, the District Health Authority in Chiniot announced plans to immunise 111,101 girls aged nine to 14 against HPV, Dawn reported. In March, health experts at a seminar in Peshawar also advised women to undergo regular checkups for cervical cancer screening. (ANI)
Argentina's President Javier Milei has proposed a new $1 million initiative to strengthen relations between Latin America and Israel ahead of an anticipated visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Al Jazeera reported. Milei, the latest winner of the Genesis Prize Foundation, announced that he would use his prize money to launch a nonprofit, the American Friends of the Isaac Accords (AFOIA). "AFOIA is a vehicle to promote Milei's bold vision and encourage other Latin American leaders to stand with Israel, confront antisemitism, and reject the ideologies of terror that threaten our shared values and freedoms," Genesis Prize co-founder Stan Polovets said in a news release, according to Al Jazeera. The nonprofit aims to build on efforts similar to those under US President Donald Trump to normalise relations between Israel and Arab neighbours through the Abraham Accords. The Isaac Accords will focus on fostering diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation between Israel and key Latin American countries. Al Jazeera reported that AFOIA will initially target Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica, nations described by regional analysts as "primed for enhanced cooperation with Israel." "These nations stand to benefit significantly from Israeli expertise in water technology, agriculture, cyber defense, fintech, healthcare, and energy," the news release stated. The initiative plans to expand to Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and possibly El Salvador by 2026, Al Jazeera added. Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, praised the establishment of the nonprofit and Milei for "setting an example for his neighbors in the region," as reported by Al Jazeera. However, he acknowledged that several prominent Latin American leaders have criticized Israel's military campaign in Gaza. "Given the hostility toward the Jewish state from some nations in the region, support of Israel by Latin American countries which are now on the sidelines is very important," Danon said. Al Jazeera highlighted that countries like Colombia and Bolivia have severed diplomatic ties with Israel since the Gaza war began in 2023, and Brazil recently joined a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has condemned human rights abuses in Gaza, where over 61,500 Palestinians have been killed amid an Israeli blockade restricting food, water, and essential supplies. Lula called the situation a "genocide" and warned of "catastrophic hunger," as per Al Jazeera. Contrasting with left-wing Latin American leaders, Milei, a libertarian, has taken a pro-Israel stance. In June, Milei confirmed plans to move Argentina's embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem by 2026, mirroring a decision made by Trump in 2018. Milei has praised Israel's human rights record, posting on social media in May, "I congratulate the State of Israel on its short but glorious 77 years of existence. Like Argentina, Israel is a beacon of FREEDOM and DEMOCRACY," Al Jazeera reported. The Argentinian president has also expressed interest in converting to Judaism, a first for any Argentinian leader. His selection as the 2025 Genesis Prize winner is notable as he is the first non-Jewish recipient, and the prize money is traditionally donated to a cause supported by the winner. Despite Milei's support, his pro-Israel position has sparked protests in Argentina. Thousands marched in Buenos Aires recently, demanding humanitarian aid for Gaza and opposing Netanyahu's upcoming visit. "We not only demand the opening of borders and the entry of humanitarian aid: We support the fight for a #FreePalestine. Zionism is not Judaism," stated a group involved in the protests, JudiesXPalestina, on social media, according to Al Jazeera. Netanyahu's planned visit poses a test for Argentina's commitment to the International Criminal Court (ICC), which issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former defence minister Yoav Gallant in 2024 over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The ICC depends on member countries to enforce such warrants, and Argentina's decision to host Netanyahu could be seen as a challenge to the court's authority, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
Just a day after the US Department of State designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), the Pakistan Armed Forces stated that it had killed at least 50 militants over four days in the Zhob district of Balochistan, the Dawn reported. According to the Dawn, citing a statement issued by the Pakistani military's public relations wing, ISPR, on Tuesday, the individuals termed as "terrorists" were killed as they were attempting to cross over from Afghanistan to the region, which had long struggled for autonomy and freedom from Islamabad's control. Between August 7 and August 9, 47 militants were gunned down in the remote Sambaza area in the district, with Pakistani authorities later claiming three more were killed in a so-called "sanitisation operation" on the night of August 10 and August 11, with arms and ammunition also recovered from their possession, the Dawn reported. The ISPR referred to the slain as "khawarij", a term used to describe members of banned militant groups like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Meanwhile, in Balochistan's Washuk district near the Iran border, nine Pakistani soldiers, including an officer, were killed in an ambush on Monday night, with six others getting injured in the intense exchange of fire, the Dawn reported. Earlier on Monday (US local time), the US Department of State designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), adding that the Majeed Brigade is an alias of the BLA's previous Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) designation. The BLA was previously designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) in 2019 after carrying out several terrorist attacks. Since 2019, BLA has claimed responsibility for additional attacks, including by the Majeed Brigade. According to the statement, in 2024, BLA claimed it had committed suicide attacks near the airport in Karachi and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex. In 2025, BLA claimed responsibility for the March hijacking of the Jaffar Express train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, killing 31 civilians and security personnel and holding hostage over 300 train passengers, the statement added. Further, the US State Department stated that "Today's action taken by the Department of State demonstrates the Trump Administration's commitment to countering terrorism." "Terrorist designations play a critical role in our fight against this scourge and are an effective way to curtail support for terrorist activities," the statement added. (ANI)
The former first lady of South Korea and wife of ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Keon Hee, has been arrested in connection with allegations of stock manipulation, election interference, and bribery, Yonhap News Agency reported on Wednesday. Earlier in July, the former President was arrested for the second time over his failed attempt to impose martial law last year, making Yoon and Kim the first former presidential couple to be jailed at the same time, according to Yonhap News Agency. According to Yonhap News Agency, on Tuesday, the Seoul Central District Court approved the arrest warrant for the former First Lady, citing concerns that she might tamper with evidence. The warrant was requested by special counsel Min Joong-ki's team, which is investigating violations of the Capital Market Act, the Political Funds Act, and laws against accepting bribes for influence. At the hearing, prosecutors argued that Kim posed a serious risk of destroying evidence. Her legal team countered that she had been cooperative and was suffering from health issues. Kim is accused of taking part in a scheme to manipulate the stock price of Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealership in South Korea, between 2009 and 2012 and also allegedly interfered in candidate selections for the 2022 by-elections and the 2024 general elections and is suspected of accepting luxury gifts from the Unification Church--via a shaman--in return for business favours, Yonhap News Agency reported. Last week, she apologised during questioning, calling herself "a nobody" who had caused public concern, though she denied all the accusations during the investigation. The special counsel is currently examining 16 charges in total, including claims that the endpoint of a motorway was rerouted to benefit her family's land holdings in Yangpyeong, east of Seoul, and that her family was favoured in a local apartment development, Yonhap News Agency reported. The arrest is expected to support the investigation into these matters further. Kim was originally set to be detained at Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, where her husband is currently held for his failed attempt to declare martial law in December last year. However, the facility requested a change, and the court approved her transfer to Seoul Southern Detention Centre instead. (ANI)
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Israel's plan to expand its operations and take control of Gaza City, calling it "a disaster waiting to happen" and proposed an international coalition under a United Nations mandate to stabilise Gaza, France 24 reported. "This war must end now with a permanent ceasefire," Macron said in a statement, adding Israel's plan to take control of Gaza City was "a disaster of unprecedented gravity and a headlong rush into permanent war," according to France 24. Last week, Israel's security cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, expanding its military operations in the shattered Palestinian territory, which has drawn strong criticism both domestically and internationally, France 24 stated. "The Israeli cabinet's announcement of an expansion of its operations in Gaza City and the Mawasi camps and for a re-occupation heralds a disaster of unprecedented gravity waiting to happen and of a drift towards a never-ending war," Macron said. "Israeli hostages and the people of Gaza will continue to be the primary victims of this strategy," he added. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, addressing international criticism during a press conference on Sunday, Netanyahu said Israel is "applying force judiciously." "Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas," Netanyahu stated. "We have about 70 to 75 percent of Gaza under Israeli control, military control, but we have two remaining strongholds, OK? These are Gaza City and the central camps in Al Mawasi," France 24 reported. In his statement, Macron emphasised the importance of establishing a UN-mandated stabilisation mission to secure the Gaza Strip. "The Security Council must now work to establish this mission and give it a mandate," he said. "I have asked my teams to work on this without delay with our partners." By proposing a UN-mandated mission in Gaza, Macron is aiming to build on the momentum created by his recognition of a Palestinian state last month, which triggered a series of recognitions by other countries, including Britain and Canada, France 24 reported. Macron said the UN mission would be tasked with securing the Gaza Strip, protecting civilians, and working in support of unspecified Palestinian governance. (ANI)
Over 30,000 Afghan nationals illegally residing in Quetta division have been repatriated to Afghanistan in less than a month, official sources told Dawn. The Pakistani government had set a deadline of July 31 for all illegal Afghans living in Pakistan to return to their home country. While many refugees complied after the deadline, a significant number remained, prompting authorities to launch legal action against those who ignored the order, Dawn reported. Joint teams comprising police, Frontier Corps, FIA, and district administration were formed to take action against undocumented Afghans, Dawn added. On Tuesday, a meeting chaired by Quetta division commissioner Shahzeb Khan Kakar reviewed the ongoing crackdown on illegal Afghans in the province. The meeting was attended by deputy commissioner of Quetta retired Captain Meharullah Badini, assistant commissioner Kaleemullah, and representatives from police, FIA, NADRA, special branch, PTA, home department, and other relevant agencies. Deputy commissioners of Qila Abdullah and Pishin, as well as the SP of Pishin, joined the meeting online, according to Dawn. Officials informed the meeting that coordination between agencies had been strengthened to accelerate the operation against illegal Afghans. The commissioner instructed the teams to conduct daily operations targeting undocumented Afghans and to collect records of all illegal residents' bank accounts and mobile SIMs. He emphasized the importance of involving local elders and community leaders to ensure the repatriation process proceeds peacefully, Dawn reported. He further directed that special care must be taken regarding women and children during the operation and urged all departments to work closely together to devise an effective strategy for the repatriation of all illegal Afghans to Afghanistan, according to Dawn. This crackdown on illegal Afghans in Quetta division comes amid intensified security operations in the province, as Pakistan's army claimed yesterday to have killed 50 militants, including members of the Baloch Liberation Army and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, during a four-day operation near the Afghanistan border in Balochistan, Khaama Press reported. This region is crucial for Chinese infrastructure projects and has been a hotspot for insurgent activity. The Pakistani government is keen to secure resource-rich regions and stabilise its western frontier to support regional economic plans, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Pakistan Army said that it has killed at least 50 militants during a series of operations conducted over the past four days along the Durand Line with Afghanistan. In a statement on Tuesday, the military said those killed included members of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Both groups are designated terrorist organisations in Pakistan and have been involved in frequent attacks on security forces. According to the army, the operations mainly targeted militants in parts of Balochistan province where major mining projects are underway. (ANI)
According to The Express Tribune, Pakistan's Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal attempted to downplay the development, calling it a "temporary dip," and claimed it would be offset by future export growth tied to rising imports of raw materials.

Speaking at the launch of the Pakistani government's first monthly development report for fiscal year 2025-26, Iqbal insisted that Pakistan's exporters could benefit from preferential US tariff rates, but only if they managed to enter global markets, something that remains uncertain.

As per The Express Tribune, the spike in the deficit, reported by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), pushed the trade gap to USD 2.7 billion in July, up 44 per cent from the same month last year.

This increase comes as the government slashed import duties in line with conditions from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, further raising questions about Pakistan's growing dependency on external institutions for policy direction.

Officials have tried to rationalise the import surge, suggesting it may be due to businesses holding off on shipments to benefit from lower duties introduced in the new fiscal year.

Iqbal claimed that macroeconomic conditions are improving, citing a 17 per cent rise in exports in July, The Express Tribune reported.

Yet, with the country's external accounts under pressure and foreign reserves still fragile, many see these optimistic projections as premature.

For Pakistan, exports reached USD 2.7 billion in July, a 16.9 per cent increase from last year, while remittances grew by 7.4 per cent to USD 3.2 billion, The Express Tribune reported, citing the report.

These figures the government attributes to overseas confidence. (ANI)
French President Emmanuel Macron has signed into law a modified bill banning the reintroduction of a bee-killing pesticide, following a petition signed by more than two million people, France 24 reported. The legislation, which has sparked a major debate in France, was adopted in July in a divided lower house of parliament and has faced criticism for being rushed through without proper discussion, according to France 24. The law was published in the government's official journal on Tuesday after the Constitutional Council, France's highest court, struck down a contested provision regarding the reintroduction of acetamiprid. The court ruled that neonicotinoid insecticides posed "risks to human health" and deemed the provision unconstitutional for undermining the right to live in a balanced and healthy environment as guaranteed by the country's environmental charter, France 24 stated. Acetamiprid, banned in France since 2018, remains legal in the European Union. Supporters of the pesticide argue that French farmers need it to stay competitive with European counterparts. The main farmers' union has opposed the court ruling while welcoming the approval of other parts of the legislation, including measures to simplify planning permission for livestock buildings and water reservoirs for irrigation, France 24 reported. Supporters of the petition expressed frustration that went beyond environmental issues. They contended that acetamiprid, unlike other banned neonicotinoids at the EU level, does not pose the same risks, and without it, crops like sugar beets and hazelnuts face severe disease losses, France 24 added. Commentators have interpreted the petition as a sign of exasperation with political deadlock in the hung parliament and a demand for greater public influence on political decisions, France 24 noted. Following the court ruling, Macron stated his intention to quickly enact the law and rejected further parliamentary debate. The legislation has been named the Duplomb law after its author, Laurent Duplomb, a senator from the right-wing Republicans party. French Health Minister Yannick Neuder has called for a European reassessment of acetamiprid's impact on human health, France 24 reported. (ANI)
One Indian fisherman has been deported from Sri Lanka and has reached India, the Indian High Commission in Colombo said on Wednesday. In a post on X, the High Commission stated, "One Indian fisherman has been deported from Sri Lanka and has reached India." https://x.com/IndiainSL/status/1955495307137220864 The development comes at a time when incidents of Sri Lankan Navy violations are on the rise. Following the end of the fishing ban on June 15, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 50 Rameswaram fishermen along with their 7 motorboats and one national boat. In response, fishermen have urged the central and state governments to take immediate action to secure the release of these fishermen and their boats. They have also demanded that steps be taken to stop the Sri Lankan Navy's repeated intrusions that disrupt them and to restore their right to fish in their traditional areas, where Tamil Nadu fishermen are currently being denied access. A protest was staged in Thangachimadam, where the fishermen reiterated their demands, including the immediate release of 24 fishermen who were arrested while fishing and have been imprisoned as convicts between 2024 and 2025. A large number of fishermen participated in the demonstration, which was led by All Fishermen's Association President Sesuraj, raising slogans in support of their demands. The fishermen announced that they would hold a hunger strike on August 15, coinciding with Independence Day. If the central and state governments still fail to act after that, they warned they would launch a train strike on August 19, continuing until all their demands are met. These protests come in the backdrop of the Sri Lankan Navy arresting 14 Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district on August 6. Four of them were taken into custody from Thondi, Thiruppalai, while 10 others, were arrested from the Pamban area of Rameswaram in the same district. The fishermen arrested from Thiruppalai have been identified as Vimalraj (24), Mathesh (20), Sakthi (18) and Karthi (18). Sea Workers' Association State President S. Muruganantham, speaking to ANI, said, "The Sri Lanka Navy has arrested 4 fishermen from Thondi, Thiruppalai -- Vimalraj (24), Mathesh (20), Sakthi (18) and Karthi (18) -- who went fishing in a country boat from Thondi in Ramanathapuram district yesterday, along with the boat they were on. Similarly, the Sri Lanka Navy arrested 10 fishermen from Pamban who went fishing in a boat INT-TN-10-MM-2702 yesterday." The incident of the Sri Lanka Navy arresting 14 fishermen from Ramanathapuram district in a single day has caused unrest among the fishermen. (ANI)
Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior (MOI) has proposed new restrictions on the restoration of citizenship to individuals originally from Taiwan who later obtained Chinese identity documents, Focus Taiwan reported. According to Focus Taiwan, the proposed amendment, announced on Tuesday, would allow the Taiwanese government to deny restoration requests for people with Chinese documents, unless the applicants meet specific criteria, reflecting growing concerns about the island's national security and influence from China. The amendment targets individuals who once held household registration in Taiwan but gave it up to register in mainland China or obtain a Chinese passport. Under current rules, they can apply to restore their Taiwanese citizenship, but the new draft regulation would make that process significantly more stringent, Focus Taiwan reported. To regain citizenship under the proposed rules, applicants must demonstrate they have made meaningful contributions to Taiwan's national defence, international standing, or social stability, or that they have provided benefits to Taiwan's overall interests. Alternatively, individuals may qualify on humanitarian grounds, such as having lost Taiwanese citizenship involuntarily as a minor due to their legal guardian's actions, having close family ties in Taiwan, or having health issues. The MOI stated that the amendment is part of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's broader national security initiative, introduced in March, which includes 17 strategies to counter threats posed by the People's Republic of China, Focus Taiwan's report added. Since obtaining a Chinese passport or household registration is seen as giving up Taiwanese identity, the government is aiming to prevent individuals with questionable loyalties from regaining legal status. Applicants must also provide proof that they no longer hold Chinese household registration and have either renounced or never applied for a Chinese passport. In addition, they are required to submit a recent criminal record certificate issued by Chinese or foreign authorities, which must be verified by Taiwan's relevant agencies or overseas offices, Focus Taiwan reported. Minors under 18 are exempt from this requirement. The amendment outlines new conditions under which applications for restored citizenship can be denied, revoked, or annulled. These include engaging in propaganda activities for the Chinese Communist Party, violating Chinese policies or laws, or participating in actions deemed to endanger Taiwan's national security or interests, Focus Taiwan reported. Specific examples include leaking state or trade secrets, representing Chinese commercial interests without authorisation, damaging public infrastructure, or inciting social unrest. If a person's restored citizenship is later found to violate these conditions, the decision to revoke or annul their status would be reviewed jointly by the National Immigration Agency and other relevant bodies. The MOI emphasised that the proposed changes do not require approval from the Legislature and are intended to strengthen national security in the face of increasing cross-strait tensions. (ANI)
The Consulate General of India in Chicago on Wednesday strongly condemned the desecration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana, involving the vandalism of the temple's main signboard, marking the fourth such anti-Hindu act of desecration against a temple in the US in the past year. Describing the act as "reprehensible", the Consulate, in a statement on X, confirmed that it was in close contact with the local Hindu community and had taken up the matter with US law enforcement agencies, urging swift action against those responsible. "Desecration of main signboard of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Greenwood, Indiana is reprehensible. The Consulate is in touch with the community and has raised the matter with law enforcement authorities for prompt action. Today Consul General addressed a gathering of devotees and local leadership including Hon'ble Mayor of Greenwood, calling for unity & solidarity and vigilance against miscreants there," the Consulate stated. Earlier, the Public Affairs division of the socio-spiritual organisation, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, called the act a "hate crime" and reaffirmed the community's commitment to stand united against anti-religious bigotry. "For the 4th time in less than a year, one of our Mandirs has been desecrated by a hateful act. The anti-Hindu hate crime against the BAPS Mandir in Greenwood, IN has only strengthened our community's resolve, and we remain united in our stand against anti-religious behaviour," it stated in a post on X. US Congressman Nick LaLota also condemned the act, stating, "Religiously motivated crimes like these must be condemned and those who commit them must be held accountable. Live and let live!" in a post on X. US Congressman Tom Suozzi also condemned the act, urging the prosecution of the perpetrators and further calling out "hatred and bigotry". "This is the third hateful attack on a BAPS Temple. We must prosecute the perpetrators and educate against hate. We must all call out hatred and bigotry when we see it," Suozzi stated in a post on X. This incident follows a series of similar attacks on Hindu temples in the United States, drawing sharp condemnation from Indian authorities and community organisations. Earlier this year, on March 9, India strongly condemned the vandalism at a Hindu temple in California. Reacting to the incident, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the act "despicable" and urged US law enforcement agencies to take stringent action against those responsible. (ANI)
Intense flooding caused by the release of water and soil erosion from the Hunza Shisper Glacier has caused significant damage in the area, blocking the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and isolating communities in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, as reported by Samaa TV. Local authorities have stated that the critical KKH has been entirely obstructed, hindering trade between Pakistan and China while halting all local transport. An alternative route has been established for smaller vehicles, but heavy traffic remains trapped. In Hassanabad, water from the glacier has inundated homes that were previously evacuated by officials. A hotel has been damaged, and numerous trees have been swept away. Agricultural land in Hunza and Shigar has also suffered devastation, significantly impacting local farmers. Faizullah Faraq, spokesperson for the Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan government, confirmed that floodwaters have also reached Shigar in Baltistan, damaging fields, standing crops, and irrigation channels. He remarked, "Gilgit-Baltistan is experiencing a catastrophic flood disaster," adding that over 50 labourers narrowly escaped the rising waters, as reported by Samaa TV. The flooding has not only destroyed homes and farmland but has also ruined electricity poles and fibre optic cables, affecting communication services in the impacted regions. Large rocks and landslides continue to fall on the Silk Road, posing additional risks for rescue efforts. The KKH at Hunza remains blocked, leaving travellers stranded. Authorities have vowed to commence road repair work shortly, according to Samaa TV. Volunteers who attempted to restore water channels in perilous conditions miraculously survived. Meanwhile, residents are facing shortages of essential supplies, as access to the area is severely limited. The situation is being monitored closely, but with the glacier discharge persisting, the potential for further flooding remains high, as the Samaa TV report indicated. Disasters driven by climate change continue to afflict Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, as a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) from the Shishper Glacier surged through Hassanabad Nullah, damaging a portion of the Karakoram Highway and destroying both public and private property, according to Dawn. Officials have characterised this event as the most severe in the region since 2018. "The water volume during today's flood was the highest recorded in the Nullah since 2018," stated Zubair Ahmed Khan, assistant director of the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) for Hunza and Nagar, as reported by Dawn. (ANI)
Approximately 55,000 individuals have been forced to leave their homes in various parts of Mamund tehsil in the Bajaur tribal district due to a military operation, while 400,000 residents are trapped under a suddenly-enforced curfew, according to lawmaker Nisar Baz in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, as reported by Dawn. During a discussion on the security situation in the province led by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, Baz from the opposition Awami National Party emphasised that those displaced by the military operation targeting terrorism in his district are facing numerous challenges because the government has not adequately addressed their needs. He stated that neither the provincial nor the federal government has made any plans to assist the displaced individuals. Baz called for the authorities to lift the curfew, allowing people to move to safety, as reported by Dawn. "Nearly the entire population is trapped by the curfew, preventing their escape. It is perplexing why the government decided to impose a curfew when people were trying to reach safer areas," he remarked. According to the opposition lawmaker, the displaced individuals are relying on self-organisation, with some aid coming from local political groups. He raised concerns that the government's intervention was absent during this critical time. Baz also mentioned that residents were having trouble escaping due to a lack of available transport. He noted that those who had been displaced found temporary refuge in schools, while some set up tents. He highlighted that these residents were without essential services, including food. He questioned the provincial government about whose orders led to the imposition of the curfew, as cited by the Dawn report. The opposition member pointed out that the provincial government should disclose how it has spent the PKR 700 billion allocated since 2010 for combating terrorism. He added that the province is set to receive PKR 130 billion for the same cause in the current fiscal year. According to Kundi, the residents have lost faith in the chief minister regarding the law and order situation, particularly in Bajaur district, due to his inconsistent statements about it, as reported by Dawn. The opposition lawmaker requested that the chair establish a committee within the house, comprising members from both the treasury and opposition benches, to formulate recommendations on the law and order situation after engaging with all relevant stakeholders, as noted by Dawn. (ANI)
The Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary of the United Kingdom, Angela Rayner, has officially requested that the Chinese government clarify why sections of its architectural designs for a proposed "super-embassy" in central London have been significantly redacted, cautioning that a lack of transparency might endanger planning approval, according to Phayul's report. In a letter sent to the Chinese Embassy in London, Rayner insisted on either unredacted designs for the project or a comprehensive explanation regarding the redactions, which obscure critical portions of the proposed Cultural Exchange Building and Embassy House. Clarification is sought within two weeks, establishing a deadline of August 20, just weeks before a final planning decision is anticipated on September 9, as reported by Phayul. The redactions have raised alarms among ministers, MPs, security agencies, and advocates for human rights. Critics worry that the scale and positioning of the project could facilitate surveillance or other security threats. Some lawmakers have gone so far as to warn that the secrecy might hide activities that are inconsistent with diplomatic protocols. The Sun tabloid, referencing unnamed officials, expressed concerns about the possibility of a so-called "spy dungeon" or undisclosed secure areas within the complex, as highlighted in the Phayul report. Opposition to the project has been mounting since plans were initially submitted in 2018, especially among activists who contend that China's human rights violations, including its treatment of Uyghurs, Tibetans, Hong Kong residents, and mainland dissidents, render such a large, high-security complex in the centre of London unacceptable. The controversy escalated earlier this year when Westminster councillors, based on security evaluations, advised postponing a decision until additional information became available. Rayner's involvement represents the highest level of government pressure for transparency to date. "We cannot make a lawful and informed planning determination without clarity on what is proposed," she stated in her letter, according to reports. "The public and relevant authorities must be able to assess the implications of such a significant development in our capital," as highlighted in the Phayul report. The Chinese Embassy has not yet provided a formal public response to Rayner's letter. In the past, it has defended the Royal Mint Court project as a legitimate diplomatic establishment aimed at "promoting mutual understanding" and "facilitating exchanges" between China and the UK. Officials have labelled allegations of espionage as "groundless smears", as revealed by the Phayul report. If Beijing complies with the UK's demands for transparency, the Greater London Authority is expected to move forward with its final assessment ahead of the September 9 deadline. Nonetheless, human rights organisations and civil society advocates have condemned the project, warning that it may support surveillance and harassment of exiled Chinese dissidents, Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Hong Kong activists residing in the UK. They assert that allowing China a more substantial diplomatic presence in the capital poses a risk of enabling transnational repression on British territory. (ANI)
As administrators from both nations scramble to prepare for a historic summit, White House officials stated that US President Donald Trump will be meeting with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska's Anchorage, CNN reported. Anchorage, the largest city in the state, has been finalised for the meeting of both leaders on Friday, August 15, following a hectic search for a suitable venue during Alaska's busy summer tourist season. According to CNN, the military base, located on the city's northern edge, was ultimately selected due to its ability to meet strict security requirements, despite the White House's initial reluctance to host the Russian delegation on a US military installation. Officials explored options in Juneau, Fairbanks, and Anchorage but found most venues either unavailable or ill-equipped to handle the security and logistical demands of such a high-profile meeting, CNN reported. Some Alaskans even offered their private homes, though it remains unclear if those offers reached decision-makers. The summit, scheduled for Friday, marks the first in-person meeting between the leaders of the US and Russia in over four years. Preparations are still underway, with much of the agenda and details fluid. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation on Tuesday (local time) to discuss the upcoming meeting between the two Presidents. According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lavrov and Rubio "discussed certain aspects" of the Friday summit. "On August 12, Russia's FM Sergey #Lavrov & US Secretary of State @MarcoRubio spoke over the phone, discussed certain aspects of the upcoming meeting between President Vladimir #Putin & President @realDonaldTrump in Alaska on August 15," the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on X. According to CNN, unlike traditional summits between rival powers, this encounter lacks a clearly defined agenda or set of expected outcomes. President Trump has described it as a "feel-out" session, with the White House calling it a "listening session". According to Rubio, Trump believes a face-to-face meeting is essential to personally assess Putin's intentions, something he feels cannot be done through phone conversations alone, despite having spoken with the Russian leader five times this year, as reported by CNN. (ANI)
UN Women has warned that the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan has become increasingly unbearable, with a serious risk of their complete removal from public life, Tolo News reported. "Four years after Taliban fighters retook the capital Kabul on 15 August 2021, gender equality agency UN Women is warning that the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan is increasingly untenable," the UN Women stated, Tolo News said. Concerns extend beyond education and employment deprivation. The UN reported that in May, dozens of its female staff members in Afghanistan were explicitly threatened with death due to their work with international organizations. Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, said: "Based on monitoring body, UN Missions Human Rights Service, the update also notes that in May, dozens of women working for the United Nations were subject to explicit death threats from unidentified individuals in relation to their work with the UN mission and other UN agencies, funds and programs. This required us to implement interim measures to protect the safety of our colleagues," Tolo News reported. Meanwhile, some Afghan women continue to call on the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to provide opportunities for education and work. Masouda Hematzai, a mother of four who previously worked in a government institution, has turned to making handmade wall art at home as her only source of income. She said: "I was working as an instructor in the training department of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. After the Islamic Emirate came to power, I lost my job. As the head of my household with three sons and one daughter, it was hard for me to stay unemployed and homebound," Tolo News reported. On the eve of the fourth anniversary of the Islamic Emirate's rule, women's rights activists emphasized that Afghan women need access to education and jobs, warning that "silence" in the face of restrictions equates to accepting the elimination of half of society. Mumtaz Yousufzai, a women's rights activist, said: "My request, as a woman and a human being, from the Islamic Emirate is to take more measures in the field of women's work and rights. Four years is a very long time we have endured. During this period, many matters have improved, but in terms of women's rights, no concrete action or proposal has been considered," Tolo News added. Tafsir Siahpoosh, another activist, urged: "Our request from the Islamic Emirate is to pay attention to women's demands, because we witness increasing restrictions against women every day. Our request from the international community is also to respond to women's voices and listen to them," Tolo News reported. Earlier, the Executive Director of UN Women, along with representatives from the UK and France, criticized the continuation of restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan during a UN Security Council meeting, Tolo News said. (ANI)
As part of its strategy to repatriate illegal foreigners, Pakistan has formed a joint sub-committee (JSC) comprising police and intelligence officers to identify and profile Afghan nationals holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, Dawn reported. The committee will facilitate operational teams in implementing the repatriation plan. According to sources, the JSC will comprise the District Officer of Rawalpindi Special Branch, Deputy Superintendent of Police Security Rawalpindi, representatives of the Ministry of SAFRON, officials from the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Intelligence Bureau, and other intelligence agencies, Dawn said. The committee will ensure profiling of PoR card holders provided by the Ministry of SAFRON through their respective field formations, and real-time information about the location of illegal foreigners will be shared with the police for implementation of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP), Dawn reported. The government has already outlined a comprehensive strategy to expedite the formal repatriation of Afghan nationals holding PoR cards as part of the ongoing IFRP. As part of the strategy, Chief Secretaries and Inspector Generals of Police of four provinces, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), Director of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Chief Commissioner Islamabad, and other authorities have been informed that the voluntary return of PoR card holders should be carried out without delay. The repatriation of illegal foreign nationals, including Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, will continue under the earlier IFRP decision. "It has also been decided that the voluntary return of PoR card holders shall commence forthwith, while the formal repatriation and deportation process will take effect from September 1," sources said, Dawn reported. The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control Islamabad earlier this month. Afghan nationals holding PoR cards shall be repatriated as part of the ongoing IFRP implementation, the meeting noted. As part of the plan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will engage with the Interim Afghan Government (IAG), UNHCR, and the international community if needed. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs, PoGB, and SAFRON will provide the database of PoR card holders to respective provincial, divisional, and district committees. It was also decided that the National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) will arrange deregistration of returnees at transit areas and border terminals, while provincial governments and relevant agencies will map all PoR card holders, devise provincial action plans, and share them with the Ministry of Interior. All provincial governments and agencies will designate transit areas for deportees, arrange transportation, and ensure financial requirements. Provincial, divisional, and district-level committees will operationalise the repatriation process and suggest adjustments as needed. Control rooms at both federal and provincial levels will be activated through the National Crisis Information Management Cell (NCIMC), which will establish a complaint redressal cell with a hotline for grievances related to repatriation. All stakeholders will ensure the process is implemented in an organized manner without maltreatment or abuse. Progress will be monitored via the Foreign Nationals Security Dashboard (FNSD), with daily progress reports prepared by the FNSD, Dawn reported. (ANI)
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar on August 21 in Moscow, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a post on X. The post stated, "On August 21, FM Sergey Lavrov will hold talks with FM of India S. Jaishankar in Moscow. The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international frameworks." https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1955548841404752309 The upcoming meeting follows a session between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)'s Foreign Ministers' Meeting on July 15. In a post on X, Russia's Foreign Ministry shared, "Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Minister of External Affairs of India @DrSJaishankar hold a meeting on the sidelines of the #SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting." The high-level interaction came shortly after the meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting in Qingdao, China, in late June this year. The leaders discussed the supply of S-400 systems, Su-30 MKI upgrades, and procurement of critical military hardware in expeditious timeframes, as noted by an official statement from the Ministry of Defence. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Sergey Lavrov had also held a meeting on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6. In a statement shared on X, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Minister of External Affairs of India @DrSJaishankar hold a meeting on the sidelines of the XVII #BRICS Summit. Rio de Janeiro, July 6." The two leaders had previously met in Johannesburg in February this year, where they discussed the ongoing progress of bilateral cooperation between India and Russia. The BRICS Summit, hosted by Brazil, brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, as well as new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia. Building on these diplomatic engagements, an all-party delegation led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi visited Russia in May as part of India's global outreach programme, Operation Sindoor, where she reiterated India's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. These meetings underscore the continued focus on strengthening India-Russia ties across diplomatic, defence, and multilateral platforms. (ANI)
Over the past year, China's Xinjiang province has seen the launch of more than 40 new freight routes to Europe, moving thousands of tons of goods, according to Politico. The expansion comes despite ongoing accusations that Beijing is committing human rights abuses and using forced labour against the Uyghur population in the region. Data compiled by the Washington-based Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) shows that more than nine cargo operators now fly from Xinjiang to destinations including the UK, Germany, Hungary, Greece, Switzerland, Belgium, Ireland, Spain, and other European countries. The findings are based on an analysis of air freight movements between June 2024 and May 2025. The UHRP report warns that the "rapid expansion" of air cargo links from Xinjiang to Europe poses "a growing threat to the integrity of EU and UK supply chains," noting that shipments often include e-commerce items, textiles, footwear, electronics, auto parts, and agricultural products, industries with high exposure to forced labour risks. Some carriers insist there is no evidence their freight contains such goods, while others claim they are not responsible for monitoring suppliers. David Alton, chair of the UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights, said he was "deeply concerned" by the findings, pointing out that the growth in flights seems to undermine the EU's newly adopted forced labour screening mechanism. In July, his committee warned that Britain risks becoming "a dumping ground" for products linked to modern slavery and called for targeted import bans to address weaknesses in the UK's 2015 Modern Slavery Act. This law obliges companies to issue annual statements outlining how they are working to prevent forced labour, but critics say enforcement is weak. Citing Volkswagen's decision to withdraw from the region due to the inability to audit its supply chain, Alton stressed that the Chinese government has repeatedly denied access to United Nations Special Rapporteurs. Numerous investigations by governments, the UN, human rights groups, researchers, and survivor testimonies have documented evidence of widespread, state-backed coercion of Uyghur labour in Xinjiang. In 2021, British MPs voted to recognise China's actions as "genocide," citing the "widespread use of forced labour," while the U.S. banned imports linked to Uyghur forced labour that same year, later expanding the ban in early 2025, according to Politico. Sian Lea of Anti-Slavery International stated that "all products" from the Uyghur Region should be presumed to involve forced labour, describing the practice as "widespread and systematic." She also noted that Xinjiang's Urumqi airport has been promoted by Chinese authorities as a key hub in the "Air Silk Road" initiative, linking the region to global trade as part of President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road strategy. While the EU's Forced Labour Regulation, introduced in late 2024, aims to block goods produced through exploitation, and the UK's Modern Slavery Act seeks similar goals, both face serious enforcement challenges due to limited border checks and the difficulty of tracing complex global supply chains, Politico reported. (ANI)
The ISMR had a productive interaction with the India Singapore Business Roundtable (ISBR) delegation.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar lauded the Singapore Ministers who attended the ISMR for their commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship.

He said synergy between Government and Industry is key to the unlocking next phase of bilateral ties.

"Delighted to attend the 3rd India Singapore Ministerial Roundtable #ISMR in New Delhi. Thank DPM @GANKIMYONG, Coordinating Minister for National Security & Home Affairs K Shanmugam, FM @VivianBala, Digital Development & Information Minister @joteo_ylm, Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow for their commitment to strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

"The ISMR had a productive interaction with the India Singapore Business Roundtable #ISBR delegation. Synergy between Government & Industry is key to unlocking the next phase of ties," he added.

Apart from Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Railways, IT and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, attended India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable.

Singapore Ministers who took part in ISMR were g, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan,; Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower Dr. Tan See Leng, and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow,

The third round of ISMR identified avenues to broaden further and deepen our bilateral relations.

Envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ISMR is a unique mechanism for setting a new agenda for India-Singapore cooperation. Its inaugural meeting was held in New Delhi in September 2022, and the second meeting was held in Singapore in August 2024.

India and Singapore share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. (ANI)
As the much-anticipated Russia-US summit draws near, Moscow has accused Kyiv of ramping up attacks in Russian regions. The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed on Wednesday that Ukrainian shelling and drone strikes over the past week have left 22 people dead and 105 wounded, with a total of 127 citizens affected. "With the #RussiaUS Summit approaching, the Kiev regime has stepped up its terrorist activity against Russian regions," the Ministry posted on X. The ministry also shared a map showing the attacked border areas marked with red dots. https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1955553663084355709 The Russian Ministry also said that Kyiv "never sought peace" and views negotiations merely as a way to "prolong hostilities and cling to power." The accusations come just two days before US President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Anchorage, the largest city in the state, has been finalised for the meeting of both leaders on Friday, August 15, following a hectic search for a suitable venue during Alaska's busy summer tourist season. According to CNN, the military base, located on the city's northern edge, was ultimately selected due to its ability to meet strict security requirements, despite the White House's initial reluctance to host the Russian delegation on a US military installation. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated his refusal to withdraw forces from Donbass, dismissing any possibility of a land swap with Russia, Russia Today reported. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky insisted, "We will not leave Donbass. We cannot do this. Everyone forgets the main issue, our territories are illegally occupied." He warned that ceding land would only encourage Russia to launch another offensive "in a couple of years" and push further into Ukraine, according to RT. "Any issue of territories cannot be separated from security guarantees. Otherwise, now they want to gift them about 9,000 square kilometres, this is about 30% of the Donetsk region, and this is a springboard for their new aggression," he claimed, according to RT. (ANI)
In a vibrant celebration of literature, diplomacy, and cross-cultural dialogue, renowned poet-diplomat Abhay K. and the Ambassador of Chile to India, Juan Angulo, hosted a special literary evening at the Chilean Embassy in New Delhi. The event was dedicated to Abhay K's acclaimed poetry collection 'The Alphabets of Latin America.' The gathering brought together poets, translators, academics, and literature enthusiasts for a heartfelt book discussion and poetry reading session. He recited several poems from his collection, while members of the audience shared their favourite verses, creating an engaging and interactive atmosphere. Ambassador Angulo highlighted the deep-rooted literary connections between India and Latin America, emphasising the role of literature in strengthening mutual understanding. Addressing the event, Juan Angulo said, "There is a very strong connection rooted in the past. Many Indian and Latin American authors have taken inspiration from each other. Going forward, literary festivals, whether in India like those in Jaipur or Kolkata or across Latin America, will continue to foster these exchanges and help people understand each other better." Written during his diplomatic tenure in Brazil from 2016 to 2019, Abhay K. shared how the continent's beauty, spirit, and iconic literary figures like Pablo Neruda, Octavio Paz, and Gabriela Mistral shaped his poetic journey. The collection comprises 108 poems, each tied to a letter or theme that captures the culture, geography, and essence of Latin America. "I wrote The Alphabets of Latin America during my stay and travels throughout Latin America from 2016 to 2019, when I was posted in Brazil. The inspiration came from great Latin American poets and writers such as Octavio Paz, Pablo Neruda, and Gabriela Mistral, a constellation of writers, some of whom were also poet-diplomats. These were my 'Alphabets of Latin America,' and they inspired me to write a book that is now known by that very name," the former ambassador said. More than a literary tribute, the event also symbolised a deepening of cultural bonds between India and Latin America. Abhay K noted that Latin American poets, such as Cecilia Miralles, have long drawn inspiration from Indian culture. His work seeks to reflect this shared poetic spirit through vivid imagery from both regions. "I wanted to build this cultural and literary bridge between India and Latin America. Writers like Cecilia Miralles wrote about India; she has a whole book called Poemas Suscritos na India or Poems Written in India. So I wanted to write poems that juxtapose images of India in Latin America and Latin America in India," he added. The literary evening at the Chilean Embassy offered more than just poetry -- it became a celebration of shared heritage, artistic inspiration, and cross-cultural exchange. Through The Alphabets of Latin America, Abhay K. celebrates the continent's spirit while deepening literary ties between India and Latin America. The event showcased how poetry and shared traditions can transcend borders. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday highlighted the vital role of tourism, trade, and technology in India's foreign engagement during the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) Conclave 2025. He emphasised that the government is paying increasing attention to the value of this connection, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the use of the three T's - Tourism, Trade, and Technology - as benchmarks to assess foreign relationships. "His constant message is to urge them to bring their friends along with them on their next visit to India," he said. Jaishankar highlighted that tourism plays a crucial role in connecting nations and shaping their understanding of each other. He noted that tourism determines a nation's image in the eyes of others, making it a vital aspect of diplomacy. "Like any domain, tourism and hospitality have a wider context, which actually brings them much closer to my line of work. Sometimes, however, we don't fully visualise the larger relevance of what we are doing to our national and international objectives," Jaishankar said. Explaining the significance of the sector to diplomacy, he added, "My job is to engage the foreign community and advance India's interests. But I do want to say, even more than diplomacy, it is tourism that connects a nation to the world. Because not only does it shape the understanding of other countries of us, but it actually determines our own image in their eyes." He pointed out India's sustained efforts in recent years to make heritage and culture more visible globally, with new sites regularly added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. "Almost every year, there are Indian additions to the UNESCO World Heritage list. The most recent one was the Maratha Military Landscape, and before that, the Moidams of Assam. In the last decade, this expanded list has included Shantiniketan, Hoysala heritage, Dholavira, Jaipur city, old Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Nalanda, and the Khangchendzonga National Park," he added. Jaishankar linked cultural and tourism promotion to self-reliance and resilience, emphasising the importance of standing firmly on one's own feet in times of unpredictability. He highlighted India's strengths in its people and their self-belief, which have enabled the country to overcome adversities and address multiple challenges. "We are a civilizational state, a society that has withstood the test of time and nurtured its culture, traditions, and heritage. Our real strengths have been our people and their self-belief. We have overcome adversities and addressed multiple challenges in the journey towards progress and prosperity. We have so much to be proud of and so much to share with the world... While we will always benefit from such openness, it is essential in times of unpredictability to stand firmly on our own feet. Atmanirbharta is, of course, the mindset to deal with global turbulence. But it is also the basis to strengthen our self-confidence, to increase our resilience, and to lay the foundation for Viksit Bharat," he said. Jaishankar noted the growing prominence of India as a destination for medical tourism, with the "Heal in India" initiative gaining traction worldwide. The minister also spoke about the rising number of foreign students and the growing prominence of India as a destination for medical tourism. "Heal in India is catching on in the world with an increasing number of medical tourists," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar further noted improvements in travel infrastructure, which he said have boosted India's tourism appeal. "The practice of e-visas has made visiting India so much more pleasant. The messaging of India to the world is clearly stronger, but it is paralleled by also making travelling in India much easier. Our airports alone have doubled in the last decade. The railways have undergone a sea change, both in terms of reach and in terms of quality. Highways have again dramatically changed, " EAM said. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of "very severe consequences" if Russia doesn't agree to stop the war with Ukraine after their meeting in Alaska on August 15. "Yes. There will be consequences. I don't have to say (on the type of consequences). There will be very severe consequences," said Trump while answering a reporter's question at the Kennedy Centre on Wednesday. Both leaders are scheduled to discuss a potential ceasefire in the Ukraine war on August 15 at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska's Anchorage. The summit, scheduled for Friday, marks the first in-person meeting between the leaders of the US and Russia in over four years. If the first meeting goes well, a second meeting might be held soon, potentially involving Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. "If the first meeting goes okay, we will have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately. We will have a quick second meeting between President Putin, President Zelenskyy, and me if they would like to have me there...," said Trump. Trump also mentioned the possibility of a trilateral meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "...It was always going to be, I was going to meet with President Putin and then after that I am going to call the leaders and President Zelenskyy. I am going to call President Zelenskyy, then I will call, probably in that order, the leaders. There is a very good chance that we are going to have a second meeting which will be more productive than the first because the first is where I am going to find out where we are what we are doing," added the US President. However, the US president added that this second meeting will not take place if he does not hear the answers he wants. "There may be no second meeting because if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have then we are not going to have a second meeting," said Trump. A 30-day pause on attacks on energy infrastructure has been proposed, with both sides agreeing to begin talks on the terms for a ceasefire in the Black Sea. Trump further emphasised that the conflict is "Biden's work" and claimed he would have prevented it if he had been the US President. "This is Biden's work, this is not my work. He got us into this thing. This war would have never happened if I were the President. But it is what it is. I am here to fix it...If we can save a lot of lives, it will be a great thing," said Trump. He also claimed to have stopped five wars in the last six months and eliminated Iran's nuclear capability. " I have stopped five wars in the last six months. On top of that, we wiped out the nuclear capability of Iran, obliterated it...," said Trump. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy remains sceptical about Putin's intentions, warning that Russia continues to prolong the war. He emphasised the need for specific details from Trump regarding the ceasefire proposal. The Kremlin has outlined several conditions for a ceasefire, including a complete cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump has expressed scepticism about his ability to convince Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop targeting civilians in Ukraine during their upcoming meeting in Alaska. When asked if he believed he could persuade Putin to halt such attacks, Trump said, "Well, I'll tell you what, I've had that conversation with him. I've had a lot of good conversations with him. Then I go home and I see that a rocket hit a nursing home or a rocket hit an apartment building and people are lying dead in the streets." "So I guess the answer to that is no, because I've had this conversation. I want to end the war. It's Biden's war, but I want to end it. I'll be very proud to end this war, along with the five other wars I ended. But I guess the answer to that is probably no," the US President said. Trump made the remarks during his visit to the Kennedy Center in Washington on Wednesday (local time). He also warned Putin of "very severe consequences" if Russia doesn't agree to stop the war with Ukraine after their meeting in Alaska on August 15. "Yes. There will be consequences. I don't have to say (on the type of consequences). There will be very severe consequences," said Trump. The Alaska meeting aims to discuss a potential ceasefire and peace negotiations. Trump has proposed a second summit involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, contingent on meaningful progress toward ending the war. "If the first meeting goes okay, we will have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately. We will have a quick second meeting between President Putin, President Zelenskyy, and me if they would like to have me there...," Trump said. However, the US president added that this second meeting will not take place if he does not hear the answers he wants. "There may be no second meeting because if I feel that it's not appropriate to have it because I didn't get the answers that we have to have, then we are not going to have a second meeting," said Trump. (ANI)
Months after its introduction and amid scrutiny into Iowa universities compliance with anti-diversity, equity and inclusion policies, the Iowa Board of Regents revised its academic freedom policies to include caveats on how certain topics can be taught.

The regents approved changes Tuesday to its policies relating to academic freedom and treatment of syllabi to include sections about controversial subjects and how they should be treated by faculty and students.

Under the new policy, faculty are allowed to teach controversial topics as long as they are connected to course content and taught in a way that fosters critical thinking and avoids indoctrination of one perspective. Instruction must also reflect debate on the topic and different scholarly views.

Board President Sherry Bates said the new policy demonstrates a more comprehensive approach to ensuring academic freedom and protection from indoctrination, something board members asked for when discussing previously proposed policy. However, if word comes that the policy is not being followed, Bates said, the board will conduct an audit into the incident and take action if necessary.

If the board office audit determines the policy is not being followed, I will not be passive in addressing the problem. I will set up a task force of board members to correct the situation and ensure compliance with the policy, Bates said. Ensuring that our students can learn and think for themselves is paramount to our mission.

Another approved policy change added language to the boards rules on syllabi posting that requires students grades be determined by their understanding and application of course content rather than their perspective on viewpoints expressed in the class.

Big differences between first, final policies

A first  and very different  draft of the policy changes was introduced at the boards June meeting, where it was met with upset from students, staff, members of the public and lawmakers.

Universities would have been restricted from requiring students to take courses with substantial content that conveys DEI or CRT under the original policy draft, which critics called unlawful censorship of classroom instruction. Regent David Barker said during the June meeting he believed the policy was an important first step in eliminating distrust in higher education and ensuring students wouldnt be taught opinions or controversial ideas as fact.

After deciding to slow down the process of approving the policy at its June meeting and once again delaying the decision in July, the board released a draft of the new policy proposal last week.

Barker said he believes the policy proposal was improved by the removal of references to diversity, equity and inclusion and critical race theory, and that the latter subject is an academic area that has its place in certain classes.

The point of this policy is to teach things in a balanced manner, Barker said. If some controversial policy is taught, students should be informed that this is controversial and they should have an understanding of both sides of it. But this policy is not about censoring. Its not about saying there is anything that shouldnt be taught.

An amendment Barker introduced to include language stating students shall have access to a clear, confidential and timely process to report concerns that instruction is not meeting these standards. Also included in the amendment was the requirement that colleges investigate complaints, promptly report them to the board and take corrective action when warranted.

Barker brought up multiple videos that have surfaced in past weeks appearing to show officials at the University of Iowa and Iowa State University discussing anti-DEI laws and policies. Barker said while people are in disagreement about what these videos show, they are proof that, at least until very recently, campus culture was against state and federal law. This culture may have impacted students trust in current complaint processes, he said, and the board should create another.

Provosts at each state university said during the meeting they have complaint processes in place that are reviewed annually, and have students bring their concerns to the faculty in question before moving up the ladder.

Rachel Boon, chief academic officer with the board of regents, said the board office also has its own complaint process for those with First Amendment concerns that goes directly to Executive Director Mark Braun. Both Boon and Braun are also working to compile and review each of the universities avenues for filing a complaint to see whether they meet board standards and expectations, she said.

The amendment failed, with only Barker and Regent Christine Hensley voting in favor.

Regents express feelings on academic freedom

Regent Robert Cramer during the meeting said it is his personal belief that DEI and CRT topics shouldnt be taught in classrooms because it is unhelpful to students who should be told their progress was due to their merit and not other reasons. Schools should look at individuals and treat them all the same and give them that equal chance to succeed, Cramer said, no matter their race or where they came from.

My personal belief is that we dont want, I wouldnt  I dont want any of the DEI, CRT, woke left stuff, you know, being taught in our classes, Cramer said. But I understand the difficulty of trying to, from the outside, trying to dictate whats being taught, and I think we do believe in academic freedom, and, of course, freedom of speech. So I think addressing how things are taught is the right path.

Regent Nancy Dunkel, the only board member to vote against approving the new policy, said with its passage, the academic freedom section of the boards policy manual should be changed to restrictions to academic freedom.

The revisions suggested in the proposed policy are limitations on academic freedom rather than clarifications, Dunkel said, and include vague terms like controversial with no language saying how controversial content is deemed so, or who makes the decision. As one faculty member put in their email to Dunkel, she said, would this policy mean that professors must teach anti-capitalist theory in economics and anti-evolution arguments in biology, or even present both sides of the Holocaust?

I want to uphold our present academic freedom policy, especially 3.10-F, which says, Regent universities shall not be or become an instrument of partisan political action, Dunkel said. The expression of partisan political opinions and viewpoints shall be those of individuals, not institutions, because the official adoption of any political position, whether favored by a majority or a minority, tends to substitute biased information that hinders the continuing search for truth.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is making one of its largest military hardware acquisitions in recent years, securing over 160 armored vehicles from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to reinforce its fight against armed groups in the troubled eastern provinces.

The vehicles, including the Kasser II mine-resistant ambush-protected units, are designed to withstand IEDs and small-arms fire  ideal for the volatile conditions in eastern Congo. Already, over 80 units have arrived, with more en route from UAE-based supplier International Golden Group in a deal reportedly worth $70 million. The purchase underscores Kinshasas urgent effort to modernize its army amid renewed clashes with the M23 rebel group, despite peace deals brokered in Doha and Washington.

Both sides accuse each other of violating the 19 July agreement, while talks scheduled for early August have stalled, with neither delegation present in Doha. DRCs army issued a warning that it reserved the right to respond to any further provocations, highlighting the fragility of the current mediation process. Meanwhile, the M23 rebels have accused the Congolese army of mobilizing troops and military weapons in six different sites, indicating a potential escalation.

While the DRC frames the UAE deal as a strategic necessity, it has attracted scrutiny. The UAEs military role in Africa is controversial, with allegations of arming non-state actors in Sudan fueling skepticism over its intentions. Critics warn the optics of aligning with such a partner could damage Congos diplomatic standing. But with tensions escalating and Western arms deals slow to materialize, Kinshasa appears to be prioritizing readiness over reputational risk in a high-stakes regional security equation.
Morocco emerged as Spains largest fresh fruit and vegetable supplier in the first five months of 2025, delivering 834 million worth of produce and achieving a remarkable 30% year-over-year growth, according to official Spanish data.

The significant performance places Morocco well ahead of traditional European suppliers, with France ranking second at 234 millionrepresenting a 6% decline compared to the same period in 2024. The Spanish Federation of Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters (Fepex) reported these figures based on competent authority data.

While France maintained volume leadership with 549,069 tons (up 11%), Morocco followed closely with 322,810 tons, representing a substantial 26% increase in export volumes to Spain. This demonstrates Moroccos growing market penetration beyond just value metrics.

Spains total fresh produce imports reached 2.655 billion through May, marking a 13% annual increase. Notably, non-European Union countries captured 70% of this market value, totaling 1.806 billion, highlighting the competitive advantage of North African suppliers.

The shifting import patterns reflect broader challenges facing Spanish domestic producers, who struggle to compete with lower-cost international suppliers. This competitive pressure has prompted Fepex to lobby European parliamentarians for revised trade agreements with non-EU countries, particularly targeting Morocco.

Moroccos agricultural export success comes despite facing systematic campaigns of criticism from professional circles in Spain, reflecting tensions over competitive pricing and market share dynamics. The kingdoms consistent growth demonstrates the resilience of its agricultural sector and effectiveness of its export strategy.

These developments underscore Moroccos strategic positioning as a key supplier to European markets, leveraging geographic proximity, competitive costs, and agricultural expertise to capture significant market share in Spains fresh produce sector.
At least 40 people were killed on Monday, August 11, when Sudans Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacked the Abu Shouk camp for displaced persons in the war-torn Darfur region, according to local aid groups and citizen-led resistance Committees.

El-Fasher, the last major army stronghold in Darfur, also came under heavy assault during the incident, which aid workers say left victims shot in their homes and gunned down in public spaces. The camp, home to about 200,000 people, has been caught in the crossfire of the two-year conflict between the army and RSF, with the UN warning that besieged civilians are facing starvation.

Satellite imagery analyzed by the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab appears to corroborate reports that the attack came from the north, showing a convoy of around 40 light vehicles in the camps north-western areas. The lab is reviewing disturbing footage allegedly depicting RSF fighters shooting at fleeing civilians and using ethnic slurs.

Abu Shouk camp was established more than two decades ago for non-Arab communities such as the Fur and Zaghawa, who had fled Janjaweed militia attacksforces from which the RSF later evolved. The group has long faced accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Darfur, charges it denies.

The latest violence follows a pattern of targeted assaults on camps around El-Fasher, with similar atrocities recorded in Zamzam camp earlier this year, where more than 100 were killed. Observers believe Zaghawa civilians may have been specifically targeted in Mondays attack, as Zaghawa fighters have aligned with the army in defending the city. Since the war erupted in April 2023, tens of thousands have been killed, over 12 million displaced, and famine declared in several regions, deepening Sudans humanitarian catastrophe.
ASSP Safety 2025 Draws Nearly 10,000, Breaks Expo Record in Orlando

The American Society of Safety Professionals flagship event welcomed thousands of safety and health leaders, showcased its largest-ever expo and set the stage for Safety 2026 in Anaheim.

The signature event of the American Society of Safety Professionals drew one of its largest crowds in history last month, attracting 6,164 registered workplace safety and health professionals  and more than 9,700 total participants when including exhibitors and livestream viewers.

The Safety 2025 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held July 2224 at the Orange County Convention Center, ranks as one of the largest annual U.S. conferences dedicated to advancing workplace safety and health. It is surpassed only by ASSPs sold-out Safety 2024 in Denver.

We continue to see an immense desire from safety professionals to network with colleagues and stay current on best practices, industry trends and the latest product innovations, said ASSP President Linda Tapp, CSP, ALCM, CPTD. The turnout was exceptional and made Safety 2025 a significant success in many ways.

The conference featured the largest expo in ASSP history, with 683 vendor booths spanning more than 134,000 square feet. Popular features included tech talks, flash sessions, a career advancement center and the Runway Apparel and PPE Fashion Show.

ASSP welcomed 2,797 first-time attendees, nearly half of the total audience. One-third were non-members, who were offered a complimentary one-year membership. Our event shares case studies and new safety approaches along with vast networking opportunities that help practitioners solve safety challenges and advance their careers, Tapp said.

The conference also surpassed its $15,000 fundraising goal for the ASSP Foundation, aided by a matching contribution from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

Safety 2026 will be held June 1517 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California.
Crude oil inventories in the United States increased by 3.0 million barrels during the week ending August 8, after dropping by 3 million barrels in the week prior, according to new data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) released on Wednesday. The build brings commercial stockpiles to 426.7 million barrels according to government data, which is 6% below the five-year average for this time of year.

The EIAs data release follows APIs figures that were released a day earlier, which suggested that crude oil inventories grew by 1.5 million barrels.

Crude prices were trading down ahead of the EIA data release. At 9:57 a.m. in New York, Brent was trading at $66.06 per barreldown $0.06 (-0.09%) on the day but a $2.70 per barrel loss from last weeks level. WTI was also trading down, by $0.14 per barrel (-0.22%) in mid-morning trade.

For total motor gasoline, the EIA reported a decrease of 800,000 barrels, with daily production increasing slightly to 9.8 million barrels. For middle distillates, inventories increased 700,000 barrels, with production increasing to 5.1 million barrels daily. Distillate inventories are still 15% below the five-year average for this time of year.

Total products supplied over the last four weeks rose to 21.2 million barrels per day, up 2.9% compared to the same period last year. Gasoline demand averaged 9 million barrels per day over the last four weeks, while the distillate four-week average supplied was 3.6 million barrelsdown 1.6 percent year over year.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
A week ago, U.S. President Donald Trump came down hard on India, doubling its tariff rate from 25% to 50% for fueling Putins war in Ukraine by continuing to buy massive quantities of Russian oil. We reported that India's imports of Russian commodities have skyrocketed since the war began, surging to $65.7 billion in 2024 from $8.25 billion in 2021, according to Indias The Business Standard. In sharp contrast, imports by the European Union and the U.S. have declined by more than 80% as they look to choke Russias war machine. And now India has rapidly moved to distance itself from Moscow, turning to Africa and other suppliers as it goes into a buying frenzy.

In recent weeks, Indian refiners have purchased two million barrels of Nigerian crude for September and October delivery; one million barrels of Angola's Girassol, three million barrels of Abu Dhabi Murban, and a million barrels of U.S. Mars. Interestingly, India is returning to the spot market, with Punch reporting that state refiner Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has made spot purchases and also negotiated for September deliveries. Over the past couple of years, India has become the biggest buyer of discounted Russian crude, accounting for 40% of its total imports at its peak in 2024. This was enough to meet Indias surging oil demand and keep it off the spot markets.

Related: API Data Shows Surprise Crude Build Despite Draw Expectations



This might be the beginning of a long-term relationship between India and Nigeria, thanks to the low sulfur content of Nigerian crude grades, making them ideal for India's refineries. However, India will now have to contend with Africa's largest refinerythe Dangote Refinery. According to Devakumar Edwin, vice president Dangote Industries, the giant refinery will buy 100% of its crude from the Nigerian market by the end of the current year, a reversal from its earlier trend of buying most of its crude from the United States, Brazil, Equatorial Guinea, Angola and Ghana. Owned by Nigerias and Africas richest man, Aliko Dangote, the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery began operations in 2024 after repeated delays. Ranked as having a higher capacity than Europes largest refineries, the $20-billion refinery now produces diesel, gasoline, aviation fuel and naphtha. Though yet to ramp up operations to full capacity, the Dangote refinery has been a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa's energy sector, transforming Africas largest oil producer into a net exporter of petroleum products. However, the refinery was initially forced to rely on large volumes of imported crude, with local traders unable to meet its demand. Thankfully, improving coordination between the refinery, the Nigerian government and local oil traders has made the supply of domestic crude more consistent and reliable. Last month, Dangote refinery purchased 53% of its crude from Nigerian producers, with 47% coming from the United States. According to Edwin, the plant is currently processing ~550,000 barrels of crude per day, good for 84.6% of its maximum capacity.

India is also looking to break China's dominance in rare earths supply, recently establishing cooperation agreements with mineral-rich countries in Latin America, Asi,a and Africa shortly after China further restricted the export of REE in 2024.

"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 several countries, including Australia, Argentina, Zambia, Peru, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, and Cote D'Ivoire, as well as international organizations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA)," India's Minister of State for Atomic Energy, Jitendra Singh, said in a written statement.

Still, India has adopted a recalcitrant tone, vowing to continue buying Russias crude, two sources previously told Reuters."These are long-term oil contracts. It is not so simple to just stop buying overnight, one of the sources said. A second source tried to justify India's imports of Russian crude, claiming it had helped to avert a surge in global oil prices. The source also pointed out that, unlike the situation in other heavily sanctioned countries like Iran and Venezuela, Russian crude is currently not subject to direct sanctions, and India was only buying from the embattled country because it offered cheaper oil thus shaving billions of dollars off its energy bill every year.

Well, this might actually be Indias official position: According to Indias foreign ministry, India has maintained a "steady and time-tested partnership" with Russia. "On our energy sourcing requirements ... we look at what is available in the markets, what is there on offer, and also what is the prevailing global situation or circumstances," he said.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The Trump-Putin meeting this Friday and the oil trade spat with India have been hogging the headlines these days, but meanwhile, the tariff war continuesand it may end with a complete rearrangement of global supply chains.

The central target, of course, is China. Amid the latest negotiations between Beijing and Washington, China faces a 30% blanket tariff on goods sold to the United States. And in a positive turn of events, the deadline for the entry of these tariffs into effect has been pushed back by 90 days. This has provided space for some hope that any disagreements about trade balance could be resolved without blood being spilled, figuratively. But if the tariffs do take effect, there will be blood.

All Asian countries became targets for Trumps tariff offensive, as did India and Brazil, and every other trade partner that the United States has. Yet Asia is one of the most important parts of the trade equation due to its lead role as exporter to the U.S.mostly of Chinese goods.

The Financial Times recalled in a recent analytical piece how Chinese companies had spent billions on building manufacturing capacity in neighboring countries in Southeast Asia with the precise purpose of insulating themselves against a potential tariff war initiated by the White House. Yet Trump has easily seen through that and imposed tariffs on all those Southeast Asian countries as well.

Related: API Data Shows Surprise Crude Build Despite Draw Expectations

In fairness, those tariffs are lower than the ones for China, but the so-called transshipment tariffs for goods originating in China but being routed via third countries before getting shipped to the United States are not. Those are at a hard 40%.

Its a gut punch to these countries and they need to try to negotiate it lower, Dan Ives, global head of research at financial services provider Wedbush Securities, told CNN this week. The worry is US is trying to cut off Chinas export routes and it speaks to the high tariffs facing these nations.

If the U.S. is trying to cut off Chinas export routes, Chinese exporters would have to work hard to forge new ones, and that may well start by returning home. The China plus one strategy is going to come under tremendous stress, Louise Loo, Asia economist at Oxford Economics, told the Financial Times. The upfront cost to move to new markets is going to be exorbitantly high, Loo added, noting that the tariff pressure will prompt many to retrench.

This means that Chinese investments overseas, notably in Southeast Asia, would diminish, if not dry up completely, affecting the economies of these countries, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, and not in a positive way because there isnt a line of companies from other countries waiting their turn to pour some billions into, say, solar panel manufacturing capacity in Vietnam.

This means that, if implemented, all these tariffs may well spark a race for new low-cost manufacturing locations in low-tariff jurisdictions, wherever they might be. Some analysts suggest Mexico. Others note that the tariffs might actually do what Trump wants them to do, namely, revive local manufacturing in the United States. Or Chinese manufacturers will get more creative.

The new punitive treatment would either short-circuit this Southbound shift in manufacturing wed seen over the past decade, or incentivise more creative ways of rerouting by Chinese manufacturers, Oxford Economics Louise Loo told CNN.

None of this, however, would make goods cheaper. This means that whichever way supply chains shift, chances are that imported goods will likely become more expensive for U.S. buyers in the near futureif all those tariffs enter into effect, of course.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The planned meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, has left Europe scrambling.

The European Union, and most other European nations, are seeking to prevent the United States from "falling into a trap" while backing Ukraine diplomatically in every possible way and preparing more sanctions on Russia. But with no new diplomatic initiatives, they are struggling to secure a seat at the table as the continents fate appears to be in other capitals' hands.

It's fair to say Brussels woke up from its August summer recess slumber with a bang last week. While few thought the US president would crack down on Russia with restrictive measures after failing to impose any meaningful sanctions to date, no one expected him to announce a full-blown, US-Russia meeting at the highest level - the first in over four years - to take place on August 15 in Alaska.

Since the summit was announced, European officials have scrambled diplomatically. They met with US Vice President JD Vance in Britain over the weekend, the bloc's foreign ministers held a videoconference on August 11, and on August 13 several of the continent's leaders - including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy - will hold another call with Trump.

Several European officials, whom RFE/RL has been in touch with under the condition of anonymity, say the messages from Washington so far have been "chaotic" and apparently several factions within the US administration have different aims for the Alaska meeting.

The officials noted there are different interpretations of what Steve Witkoff, Trump's Moscow envoy, brought back from his meeting with Putin last week. While admitting they feel a bit more confident now after all the outreach, they still aren't quite sure what to expect from Alaska.

The EU's Red Lines

Despite this, the EU has made it clear it has several red lines. European officials want a cease-fire first before any discussions on potential Ukrainian concessions. With this should come security guarantees for Kyiv and a way to monitor the cease-fire.

Many see some sort of European role here, but does anyone else? On potential Ukrainian territory being seized by Russia, the Europeans say they will back Ukraine in whatever Kyiv ultimately decides, but they want a say in it. The EU will never de jure recognize Ukrainian territory as Russian -- as in the case of Crimea since 2014, for example.

When it comes to the withdrawal of Russian troops from certain occupied areas as a form of concession, there is also some skepticism that Moscow would actually respect that. One diplomat noted that Russian troops never withdrew from Moldova's Transnistria or from Georgia's occupied territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Despite all the diplomatic posturing by European countries, the fact is they've been sidelined. While they are insisting on being at the table on any issue of direct interest, there's no indication they'll be allowed to anytime soon. This stands in stark contrast with the run-up to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in the winter of 2021-2022 when Europe was fully engaged in futile attempts at negotiations with Moscow at NATO, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and bilaterally with the Kremlin.

Now, EU leaders are struggling to stay relevant. Yes, they're threatening more sanctions against Russia, and a 19th round is being prepared. But while some of those measures have been a nuisance for Russia, they haven't swayed the Kremlin's political and military calculations in the past three years.

The over 200 billion euros' worth of Russian frozen assets in the bloc may be a useful bargaining chip, but only at a later point when talks can advance to Russia potentially making war reparations.

All the sanctions are up for renewal in January 2026, and unanimity is needed for an extension. Some EU diplomats have hinted that some measures might be dropped if Moscow delivers on certain aspects of a potential deal, but they contend that no real sequencing has been seriously discussed.

Looking For Reassurance

Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron and the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer touted a "reassurance force" of potentially 20,000 European troops to be stationed in western Ukraine. Some people say this plan is in the works, but they also admit there are still too many uncertainties surrounding it, such as the rules of engagement and whether the Americans would provide any assistance, like intelligence and large-scale transports.

Meanwhile, many point out that NATO membership would be the ultimate security guarantee for Ukraine, but there is no consensus on this issue at the military alliance, just like when the topic was dissected at NATO summits in 2023 and 2024.

For the moment, Brussels is putting its stance out there with statements. Incidentally, Hungary chose not to add its signature, again highlighting cracks in European unity. Budapest, which enjoys warm relations with the Kremlin, wants an EU-Russia summit to follow the Trump-Putin meeting.

Hungary is already blocking Ukraine's EU aspirations and stronger measures against the Kremlin and may block future financial aid. While it currently stands alone in its direct defiance of Brussels on these topics, it might soon have company if Washington and Moscow start making real deals over European heads.

By RFE/RL

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Private Indian refiner Nayara Energy is scrambling to adjust after being placed under EU sanctions on July 20 as part of Brussels 18th sanctions package. These measures, tied to Rosneft owning a 49% stake in the company, prompted CEO Alessandro Dorides (an Italian national) to resign, with Russian-born Sergey Denisov stepping in as his replacement  a leadership change as a direct result of the sanctions.

The centrepiece of Nayaras operations is the 400,000 b/d Vadinar refinery in northwest India, the countrys second-largest and historically geared toward exports as state-owned refiners have a mandate to supply the domestic market above all else. Since Rosnefts $13 billion entry in 2017  the Russian firms largest overseas investment and Indias biggest direct foreign investment at the time  Vadinar has processed predominantly Russian-origin crude. That same link now sits at the core of the EUs sanctions case.

The EU, however, was never Nayaras main outlet. Even within Europe, the United Kingdom was the primary destination for jet fuel deliveries from Vadinar, and technically, these flows could still continue, as London is yet to slap any restrictive measures on Nayara. According to Kpler data, in 2023, 9 out of 19 Europe-bound tankers went to the UK; in 2024, the same figure was 4 out of 8. By 2025, shipments to Europe had shrunk to about 5% of output, with only three voyages carried out before the sanctions - one to the UK in March and two to France and Italy in May. That limited footprint reflects a broader pattern in recent EU sanction rounds: targeting companies whose direct exposure to the European market had already dwindled, allowing Brussels to claim a crackdown on Russian-linked products in secondary sanctions while hardly disrupting actual trade.

Related: KRG, Baghdad Strike Another Oil Deal

Recent trade developments in July  the first month to see Nayara under sanctions - gave a preview of the Indian refiners Asian pivot. 8 tankers loaded with refined products at the port of Vadinar: four headed to the UAE, one to Oman, two to Singapore, and one to Pakistan. The UAE-bound shipments were split between Jebel Ali  serving Dubais domestic market  and Fujairah, a major transshipment and bunkering hub that facilitates discreet rerouting to markets such as East Africa. Omans Sohar port offers similar flexibility, with its role as a bunkering centre allowing cargoes to be tacitly trans-shipped due to the high concentration of anchored tankers in its vicinity.

These routes keep volumes moving and open the door to markets where EU restrictions carry little weight. Singapore, in particular, is a saturated trading hub where origin matters far less than price and availability. Those are the conditions that can work in Nayaras favour. The citys vast network of buyers, many unconcerned with Brussels political line, offers a ready outlet for discounted cargoes, ensuring the refinerys products can still find a customer despite the shift away from Europe.

Even with this export lifeline, Vadinar cannot ignore the longer-term structural shift. Markets like Singapore and Fujairah can absorb a portion of its output; however, ballooning freight and additional logistical costs would most probably prompt Nayara to focus on its core domestic market. Recognising this, Nayara has appealed to New Delhi for support, including possible sales through state-owned players. Reliance Industries  the largest public company in India  has been floated as a buyer of its products, but the company already operates the 1.24 million b/d Jamnagar refinery, three times the size of Vadinar and the largest in the world, and is more likely to capture displaced export demand than act as a rescue team. Moreover, sanctions are unlikely to improve the strained power dynamic between Reliance and Nayara as Indias two private refiners are both located in the state of Gujarat.

That leaves the domestic market as the most predictable and operationally controllable anchor for future sales. Nayaras existing network of over 6,500 retail stations, coupled with its January pledge to add 400 more in 2025, positions it well to absorb a greater share of its own output. What began as an ambitious retail growth plan now has the potential to evolve into a defensive buffer against external shocks. If the EUs sanctions pressure persists and re-export hubs reach saturation, the domestic network may become less of a complement to exports and more of the refinerys central lifeline  allowing Nayara to remain profitable even as its traditional seaborne routes are reshaped by geopolitics.

However, sustaining this strategy will hinge on securing feedstock and keeping cash flows intact. Russias flagship Urals crude accounted for 90% of Nayaras refinery runs in fiscal year 2024-2025, equivalent to 366,000 b/d; however, flows have dropped sharply since sanctions took effect in late July. According to Kpler data, this months crude arrivals have so far totaled just 3 million barrels, and all four incoming tankers carried Russian oil. Whilst Nayaras imports will foreseeably remain lower than previously, there are several Rosneft-owned cargoes heading towards Vadinar, indicating that the Russian oil firm will keep on supplying its embattled asset.

By Natalia Katona for Oilprice.com

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The disruptions to refineries are expected to increase Russia's crude oil exports as more unprocessed crude becomes available for shipping due to limited storage capacity.

Recent Ukrainian drone strikes have damaged several Russian refineries, forcing them offline and potentially leading to a further decline in refined product shipments in August.

Russian seaborne fuel exports fell by 6.6% in July, primarily due to increased domestic demand and planned refinery maintenance.

Shipments of refined petroleum products out of Russia declined by 6.6% in July from the previous month, Reuters estimates showed on Wednesday, as domestic demand rose and capacity under planned maintenance increased.

Russian seaborne fuel exports fell to 8.67 million metric tons last month, with shipments from the Baltic ports, the Black Sea and Sea of Azov ports, and the Arctic Murmansk and Arkhangelsk ports all down in July compared to June.

Only the fuel shipments from the Far Eastern ports rose in July from a month earlier as most maintenance works at refineries in the area were completed, according to the data provided by industry sources and calculated by Reuters.

Going forward, Russias refined product shipments could fall further in August, while crude oil exports could rise, as several refineries sustained damages during Ukrainian drone strikes earlier this month.

A Sunday drone attack on the Saratov refinery, owned by Russias oil giant Rosneft, prompted the facility to halt the intake of crude oil, a source with knowledge of the matter told Bloomberg on Monday.

The Saratov Refinery in the Volga region has the capacity to process 140,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude, but it has now been forced offline due to Ukrainian drone strikes.

The refinery has become the third Russian crude processing facility to have been damaged by Ukrainian drone strikes so far in August.

The halt to three major refineries would mean that Russia will see lower domestic gasoline and diesel supply while it will have more crude available for export as it doesnt have too much storage for the unprocessed crude.

Last week, reports emerged that Russia is preparing to sharply increase crude oil exports this month after Ukrainian drone strikes disabled major refineries, prompting a shift toward western port shipments.

Crude shipments from Russias western ports could increase to 2 million bpd in August, about 200,000 bpd more than previously planned, sources told Reuters last week.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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No commodity likes a hot summer like natural gas, when used to air-condition homes and businesses.

Unfortunately for natural gas bulls, despite a hot next few days, milder weather forecasts for the second half of August, combined with robust storage levels and output, pushed US natural gas futures below $2.90 per MMBtu, Tuesday, their lowest level since November 2024.

US natural gas futures. Source: Trading Economics

According to Trading Economics, output in the Lower 48 states averaged 108.3 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) so far in August, compared to Julys record 107.9 bcfd.

[Inventories are] about 7 percent above seasonal norms and expected to keep growing. Meteorologists still see above-normal heat through August 27 but with lower intensity than previously forecast, reducing demand.

Also on Aug. 12, the Wall Street Journal reported US natural gas futures fell for a fourth straight session, with buoyant production and forecasts for a cooler second half of August keeping up concerns about surplus inventories.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) lowered its Henry Hub price estimate for the rest of the year by 3%, expecting gas in underground storage to end the injection season (April to October) 2 percent above the five-year average, instead of the 3 percent below average forecasted in April.

Our higher end-of-season storage forecast is largely the result of more natural gas production and fewer liquefied natural gas exports than we had expected in April, the EIA said.

However, the EIA also stated it expects natural gas inventories to fall closer to the five-year average in the coming months, putting upward pressure on prices.

In its Short-Term Energy Outlook dated Aug. 12, the energy agency said it expects the Henry Hub price to average around $3.60/MMBtu in the second half of 2025 and $4.30 in 2026  21 percent and 6 percent lower, respectively, than forecasted in April.

Next April should see a monthly bottom for 2026 prices at around $3.60/MMBtu, rising from there and reaching $5.40/MMbtu in December.

Higher LNG exports should brighten the price picture. The EIA expects LNG exports to grow around 2 bcfd, further tightening supply-demand balances and contributing to higher prices later in the forecast period.

Rising natural gas production in recent months has added to higher-than-anticipated inventory levels. The EIA expects marketed production to grow by 2 percent over 2024 volumes, supported by growth in the Permian, Haynesville and Appalachia regions. Drill rigs are being deployed to gas-intensive shale plays. Baker Hughes reported on Aug. 8 that 19 more rigs were drilling for natural gas than at the start of April, an 18 percent increase.

The EIA expects falling oil prices will reduce production of associated natural gas, particularly in the Permian Basin. However, production declines will be muted as producers strategically position themselves to meet rising demand from several LNG projects that are set to enter service in late 2025 and 2026.

BOE Report had a slightly different take on the EIAs Short-Term Energy Outlook. It said that US natural gas output and demand will both rise to record highs in 2025 before sliding in 2026. The agency also forecasts average US LNG exports to reach 14.7 bcfd in 2025 and 16.3 bcfd in 2026, up from a record 11.9 bcfd in 2024.

Answering the question, Have Natural Gas Prices Bottomed?, Jim Roemer, publisher of Weather Wealth newsletter, on Aug. 8 said about two weeks ago he (correctly) predicted prices would fall below $3 due to cooler US weather and fewer LNG exports to Europe. Colder European weather was also part of the picture.

Roemer notes weather models are a bit warmer for both Europe and the US as we head deeper into August, which may be enough to staunch the bleeding among natgas investors.

Some models are forecasting a Gulf hurricane in mid- to late-August, which could disrupt supplies and shore up weak prices.

Roemer notes natural gas prices tend to bottom by August if there is normal to hot US weather.

The United States is the top producer of natural gas, followed by Russia.

By Andrew Topf for Oilprice.com

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The survey differentiates between "universal connectivity" (general internet access) and "meaningful connectivity" (addressing barriers like affordability and digital skills), with Uzbekistan identified as having a potential "digital awareness" gap.

Kazakhstan is the most digitally advanced country in Central Asia, while Georgia leads in the Caucasus, though other regional states like Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan are close behind.

Countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia are among the most digitally connected globally, with the Commonwealth of Independent States region nearly matching Europe in "universal and meaningful connectivity."

Countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia are among the most digitally connected in the world, a recent survey by the International Telecommunications Union.

The organizations 2025 Information and Communication Technologies Development Index shows that the Commonwealth of Independent States as a region lags only slightly behind Europe in terms of universal and meaningful connectivity. Broadly speaking, the report shows a steady advance in digital connectivity around the world.

The 2025 results show continued global advances in connectivity, with nearly all economies improving their performance, the report states. It is encouraging that low-income countries tend to be progressing the fastest, although from a low base. Gaps with higher-income countries remain wide.

The survey shows that Kazakhstan is the most digitally advanced country in Central Asia, while Georgia leads in the Caucasus. But other regional states, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, all were not far behind. Azerbaijan registered the most improvement in the 2025 compared to the results in the 2024 survey. The ITU noted that it could not obtain sufficient data to include Tajikistan and Turkmenistan in the survey.

Kazakhstans overall index score exceeded those of several European Union member states, including Belgium, the CzechRepublic and Hungary.

In many respects there was little separating all of the countries measured in the Caucasus and Central Asia. In the Caucasus for example, Georgia recorded the highest percentage of individuals owning a cellular phone at 93 percent, followed by Azerbaijan at 84 percent and Armenia at 77 percent. But Armenia had the highest percentage of households with Internet access at home at 91.7 percent, surpassing Azerbaijan (88.6 percent) and Georgia (89 percent).

Kazakhstan led all the countries in the region in percentage of households with Internet access at home at almost 97 percent, yet the country scored the lowest of the regional states surveyed in terms of percentage of the population covered by at least a 4G/LTE mobile network at 89 percent.

The survey sought to distinguish what it describes as universal connectivity, basically general access to the Internet, from meaningful connectivity, which the ITU defines as being based on the premise that realizing the full potential of connectivity requires more than access  it also means addressing barriers such as affordability, digital skills, and connection quality.

Uzbekistan was the only state among the regional countries measured that had a lower score for meaningful connectivity than for universal connectivity, suggesting that that the country has a digital awareness gap that hinders citizens from taking full advantage of available resources.

Conversely, Kyrgyzstan is the country taking the greatest advantage of its digital infrastructure, based on its meaningful connectivity score relative to its universal connectivity ranking. Even so, Kyrgyzstan was the only regional state to see its overall index score decline in 2025, compared with its previous years results.

Russia had the highest meaningful connectivity ranking among all CIS states.

While the overall results are encouraging, the [index] remains a partial snapshot of digital connectivity, the survey concludes. Several critical dimensions are not yet captured, due to data gaps.

By Eurasianet.org

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A tanker chartered by Chevron has docked at a Venezuelan port, set to be loaded with the first Venezuelan crude to be supplied to U.S. refiners after President Trump reinstated Chevrons sanction exemption for operating in the country.

The Bahamas-flagged Canopus Voyager reached Venezuelan waters last week, Reuters reported, citing LSEG data, and docked at the Jose port, which featured PDVSAs oil export terminal. As of Tuesday, Reuters noted, at least five other tankers that Chevron had previously used to ship Venezuelan crude were entering Venezuelan water or en route there.

President Trump revoked Chevrons license to operate in Venezuela in March this year, reversing a concession made by the Biden administration despite its continued pressure on the Venezuelan government through sanctions targeting the countrys crude oil industry. Chevron was given until the end of May to wind down its business in the country.

As soon as this happened, Venezuelan oil exports slumped by 20% as PDVSA responded to Trumps license revocation for Chevron with a cancellation of its own license for the company to trade in Venezuelan crude.

Last month, however, the U.S. president changed his mind and Chevron was allowed to resume work in Venezuela, but on one condition: that no money from the sale of Venezuelan crude went to the Venezuelan government. Meanwhile, exports from Venezuela remained subdued at a little over 700,000 barrels daily, with the oil industry waiting for the return of Chevron.

The U.S. was importing Venezuelan crude at a peak rate of some 300,000 barrels daily last year and early this year, Kpler reported recently, adding that the average import rate was about the same as Chevrons portion of joint output in the country for last year. That output in its total stood at some 240,000 barrels daily as of last year.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Exxon has sealed a deal with the Trinidad and Tobago government for deepwater exploration that could involve investments of $21.7 billion, according to the Caribbean nations energy minister.

What we are awarding today is larger than the surface area of the country, Roodal Moonilat said as he broke the news of the new deal, saying the area that Exxon will explore was the size of seven normal offshore blocks.

Said area lies northwest of the Stabroek blockthe offshore Guyana block that Exxon has been developing since 2005, with the first production well drilled in 2015. Since the start of exploration, Exxon has tapped an estimated 11 billion barrels in reserves and production has grown rapidly, turning Guyana into a rare hot spot in the world of oil. Plans are to pump 1.7 million barrels of oil equivalent in 2030. To date, production runs at 900,000 barrels daily.

Due to its proximity to the Guyana oil bounty, Trinidad and Tobago made a logical choice for Exxon. The supermajor had a presence in the Caribbean country until 2003, when it announced it would quit, following an unsuccessful exploration campaign.

Despite that failure, Trinidad and Tobago is the largest oil and gas producer in the Caribbean and the 17th largest 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 Repsoland now Exxon, which very much hopes to replicate its Guyana story in Trinidad.

The new exploration campaign will begin with an investment of $42 million and the drilling of two wells, the first of which could be drilled in six months, once the company finishes with its seismic survey of the area. If that is successful, development could be even faster than it was in Guyana, Reuters noted in a report on the news.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Ukraine says it has struck a critical oil-pumping station in Russias Bryansk region, igniting a large fire at a hub feeding the Druzhba pipeline to Europe. The Unecha facility also links to the Baltic Pipeline System-2, which carries Russian crude to Ust-Luga, the countrys second-largest Baltic oil port.

Kyivs General Staff reported explosions in both storage and pump areas. Bryansk governor Alexander Bogomaz blamed Ukrainian rockets and drones, calling the strike a terrorist act, but said the fire was contained. Hungarys MOL and Slovakias Transpetrol reported no disruption to crude deliveries, and Kazakhstans energy ministry said its oil transit via the network was unaffected.

The attack is the latest in a string of Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure this month, which have already disabled three major refineries. Those outages, combined with rising domestic demand, helped to drive Russias seaborne fuel exports down 6.6% in July. Analysts expect refined product exports to drop further in August, while crude shipments from western ports may rise as Moscow runs short on storage.

The Unecha hit comes just days before an expected Trump-Putin meeting, with CBS reporting the White House is working toward a trilateral summit with Ukraine at the end of next week. Trump has been ratcheting up economic pressure on Russias buyers, doubling tariffs on Indian goods over New Delhis continued imports of Russian crude, and warning China of possible 500% duties.

Russian officials, meanwhile, are signaling hard lines ahead of any talks. Lawmakers told state media that Moscow would only negotiate under terms recognizing new realities, a reference to its control of occupied Ukrainian territory, and vowed Russia would win decisively regardless of Western pressure.

With energy infrastructure now squarely in Ukraines crosshairs and both sides hardening their positions, the Unecha strike underscores the stakes  and the risks  facing next weeks high-wire diplomacy.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Venture Global, the LNG export major, has won an arbitration case brought against it by Shell for failure to honour long-term contracts in favor of spot-market sales.

The tribunal that Shell and half a dozen other energy majors from Europe approached for their dispute with Venture Global ruled that the U.S. company had not violated its contractual obligations with its long-term clients.

Shell, along with companies including BP, Repsol, Edison, and Portugals Galp, accused Venture Global in 2023 of profiteering by selling LNG cargos that should have been supplied under their long-term contracts on the higher-price spot market. The U.S. firm used a loophole to do that by extending the deadline for officially commissioning its first LNG plant in Calcasieu Pass.

Venture Global claimed that it was under no obligation to honor its long-term commitments until the plant was officially commissioned, which happened earlier this year. Meanwhile, it managed to build a second LNG facility that produced its first LNG at the end of 2024before the first one was officially commissioned.

We are disappointed with the outcome but respect the Tribunal's decision, Shell said in comments on the news. The supermajor had accused Venture Global of wrongfully earning as much as $3.5 billion from its spot market sales.

Our industry and the investors and lenders who underpin it, all rely on respect for both the sanctity of negotiated contracts and the experienced, objective regulatory and legal bodies that govern it, Venture Global said, as quoted by Reuters.

Meanwhile, another European supermajor, TotalEnergies, earlier this year declared it would not do business with Venture Global because of the profiteering affair, with chief executive Patrick Pouyanne saying that I don't want to deal with these guys, because of what they are doing. ... I don't want to be in the middle of a dispute with my friends, with Shell and BP.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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This past weekend, I stopped at Costco to pick up some milk and other items. The parking lot is littered with handicap parking spaces and most of them were occupied. I was lucky to find an open space adjacent to an open handicap parking space which put me closer to the entrance and saved a little wear and tear on my already sore right knee. (Im eighty-one and entitled to a sore knee now and then.) But it was the sheer volume of handicapped parking spaces that amazed me. My initial thought was that Costco had provided a handicapped parking space to every person so afflicted in the city. But the rational part of my brain realized that the number of handicapped parking spaces was not Costcos idea but rather the mandate of the state and local governments and probably based on the total number of parking spaces or the square footage of the store or some combination of the two. (Hang in there now for a minute  it gets worse.)

At any rate, I no sooner turned my car off and started to open my door when one of those extended cab behemoth pickup trucks pulled into the handicapped parking space next to me. You know the type that you need a step ladder to get in and out. The type that they have to back into the space because they cannot turn in sharply enough. The type that sticks out into traffic by a foot or two. But I digress. About that time the door to the pickup opened and a woman popped out and strided with purpose to the entrance to Costco with no visible impediments or handicaps. I checked her license plate and her mirror and there was no handicapped plate or hanger. Obviously she and her time were more important than were mine, or for that matter anyone elses.

It hit a nerve. My wife and I had a nephew that was a quadriplegic. He needed access to those handicapped spaces and often times found himself circling a parking lot waiting for a space because the allotted spaces were filled more often than not by perfectly healthy people with and without handicapped stickers. There ought to be a law, right?

Well there is a law. In fact there has been a law for decades. The fines for violation were pretty nominal in the beginning because the politicians reasoned that healthy people would not deny access to those suffering a handicap. They were wrong. The fines were the only enforcement method and they were so low that they did not deter offenders. No provision was made for additional law enforcement action to police these handicapped parking spaces. And because all the handicapped spaces were being taken by those without handicaps, their advocates demanded the designation of more spaces and to increase enforcement  albeit by raising the fines with no additional enforcement activity. Those legislators walked away each session full of virtue signaling and devoid of any recognition that a law that isnt enforced is no law at all. So over time the fine has been raised, the number of allocated handicapped spaces has increased and people in all sorts of vehicles from Prius to monster trucks continue to occupy those spaces with no actual handicaps.

The same is true for littering and the use of smart phones  particularly for texting purposes. The legislature continues to increase the fines and drivers continue to ignore the problem because there is no enforcement and they know it.

But wait  there is an enforcement mechanism that will cost nothing to implement and will put an end to the massive abuses. It is a mechanism that it as old as America and has proven regularly to be effective. Thats right. Its called bounties and I have urged this to no avail previously.

Rather than calling it a bounty call it the Full Employment Act. Its pretty simple and it recognizes the evolution of technology such that virtually every person has in their hands a movie camera equipped with date and time stamps  a smart phone.

The legislature should authorize a new, independent, self-funded corps of misdemeanor bounty hunters. By simply amending the existing laws to allow bounty hunters to recover one-half of the fines levied, Oregon and other states could create a cadre of good citizens willing to enforce the very laws that the policy makers have said are important for the safety of our handicapped and to ensure access to public activities by the handicapped. Of course, the fines for handicap parking violations probably ought to be increased to the same level as littering (up from $1000 to $6250) to recognize that people are at least as important as candy wrappers and Big Gulp containers.

Just think of the opportunities. Youre sitting in the parking lot at Target thinking about dinner and a movie but knowing that your budget is too tight. Bingo, there goes a guy in Golds Gym T-shirt, muscles bulging, and making the high-climb alone into an SUV parked in a handicap spot sure he has a handicap sticker but so does everybody else and there isnt anyone with a handicap in the vehicle. Grab the smart phone, start the video showing the offenders face, license plate, and a cab empty but for him. Then click/click an email to the State Police and you are $3,125 richer. (For those of you forced to endure a teachers union led education in the Portland public schools, $3,125 is one-half of the $6,250 fine proposed above.) In fact, some enterprising fourteen-year old can probably cobble together an app that lets you do all of this and order the pizza and the movie tickets right from the same app.

This is a liberals dream solution. First and most important, the increased revenues give government more opportunity to waste money. Second, it does not require any active law enforcement participation (we dont want to put more officers on the street for fear of offending some special interest group). Third, it encourages busybodies to tell others what to do. Fourth, it encourages citizens to spy on each other  we could even call these volunteers something like the Red Brigade.And fifth, it creates the kind of jobs liberals love  show up when you want, quit when you want, and drink and smoke when you want without fear of supervisors. It would be like a progressives utopia  well, like in Portland. It will work equally well for littering and using your cellphone for texting or talking in hand-held mode. And as it works, there will be other areas to which it can be applied. (Mic drop.)

Or, you could simply enforce the laws you have already passed and clear the decks of the cheaters, malingerers, and free-ride remoras. But that would alienate a goodly portion of the progressives voting base.


By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek made headlines this week by blaming President Trump (Big Beautiful Bill, Executive Orders, etc..) for causing Oregon to lose $15 billion dollars for the State Budget over the next few years.

This is where we need to lay out the facts and context so the public gets the complete story. Although it will take some time to dig through the just released state numbers, in the interest of time responding immediately to Governor Koteks press release, we will provide some big picture answers.

 The Feds are cracking down on medicaid cheats and people abusing the system. The new Medicaid rules target able-bodied adults (without children, without disability, under 64) by requiring them to get a job, or job training, or schooling, or community service. Nearly half-of these able-bodied men on Medicaid would not be on Medicaid if it were not for the relaxing of eligibility rules over the Obama and Biden administration. For those on Medicaid who arent reporting any employment, their most frequent activity (not including sleeping) is engaging with television and video games. On average, these able-bodied adult men dedicate about 4.2 hours each day to watching videos or playing games, which totals around 125 hours over a typical 30-day month. These able-bodied males need to be contributing to society instead of becoming 30-year-old wards of the state.

 The Feds are cracking down on people abusing Food Stamps. Just like Medicaid reform, the same requirements are being placed on able-bodied adults by requiring them to get a job, training, or community service. In the 1990s welfare work requirements helped move millions from government dependency and into rewarding, productive work. This means Oregon government will spend millions less of tax dollars on welfare dependency and in return they will be adding millions in new tax revenue from the jobs they move into. Oregon has been working hard to push people into food stamps  making it a food stamp leader in America.

The Feds are trying to crack down on unnecessary Medicaid spending.

 The Feds are cracking down on using Medicaid dollars for illegal migrants. This practice is already illegal, but it is being abused or ignored. New rules aim to enforce existing laws and policies of not using tax dollars to illegal migrants. California Governor, Gavin Newsom, recently proposed scaling back health programs for illegal migrants and said it would save his state billions. By shutting off the free government programs for illegal migrants you help stop the attraction of new migrants who flock to the opportunity. As a result, each state will save millions from new people being signed up.

 The Feds are closing down the loophole scheme that many states use to trigger more federal medicaid funding for their state. The new rules will step down amount of health provider taxes a state can levy from 6% of net patient revenue to 3.5%. Liberal states, like Oregon, were over-taxing health care providers as a way of getting more federal dollars (for which some of it was re-routed back to help the over-taxed providers in other areas which made everything such a ruse). It is unfair and inexcusable for states to cheat the system and create unequal health care funding between states.

 Trump cancelled the outrageous Rose Quarter tunnel program. The good idea to expand road access to one of Oregons most busiest choke points at the Blazer arena, was made much worse when Oregon expanded it to include building a roof over Interstate-5 in order to build homes, shops and a park on top of it. Costs tripled to nearly a billion dollars. Oregon wanted the Federal government to make it all happen. Portland wont allow people to build homes and shops on vacant properties (Urban Growth Boundary), but they will let you build on homes and shops on top of an Interstate highway and use your tax dollars to subsidize it. Thats not how it works.

 How does Kotek plan to help fix the nations $36 trillion dollar debt? If Governor Kotek opposes stopping the practice of giving tax dollars to non-citizens and able-bodied adults as a way of saving tax dollars, then exactly how does she plan to help America reduce the $36 trillion dollar Federal deficit?

Was this helpful? Contribute online at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty).
Sourcing quality seafood is one of the most critical decisions for any food business in Thailand. The freshness, safety, and consistency of your seafood can directly affect your reputation and bottom line. With numerous options in the market, finding the right seafood ingredients supplier in Thailand requires careful consideration. Heres what to look for, and why so many businesses nationwide trust Food Project Foodservice Solution.

Prioritize Freshness and Food Safety

Freshness is a non-negotiable requirement when choosing a seafood ingredients supplier in Thailand. Quality seafood should have a clean, ocean-like scent, firm texture, and proper color. More importantly, the supplier must be able to maintain this freshness from source to delivery.

Look for suppliers who operate with certified cold chain logistics. This means the seafood is stored, transported, and delivered in temperature-controlled environments, reducing the risk of spoilage and contamination.

At Food Project, we follow strict cold chain protocols to ensure seafood remains fresh from our sourcing partners to your kitchen. Our processes comply with international standards such as GMP, HACCP, and ISO, offering confidence in every order you receive.

Choose a Supplier with a Reliable Product Range

Every business has unique needs. A Japanese restaurant may require premium-grade salmon, scallops, and mentaiko, while a Thai kitchen might need seasonal shellfish or freshwater fish for traditional recipes. Supermarkets and wholesalers, on the other hand, need frozen options that offer a longer shelf life without compromising quality.

Your supplier should offer a wide range of seafood products, from fresh to frozen, or value-added, that can be tailored to your operation. They should also provide flexibility in volume and delivery schedules to meet your demand fluctuations.

Food Project offers a comprehensive seafood catalogue, including fresh and frozen fish, shellfish and crustaceans, imported seafood directly from Japan and other global sources, and pre-portioned or value-added seafood products. This diversity allows our clients to consolidate sourcing, reduce vendor complexity, and streamline kitchen operations.

Assess Their Delivery Capability

The right seafood ingredients supplier in Thailand must deliver on time and in optimal condition. Delayed or inconsistent delivery affects menu planning, customer satisfaction, and daily operations.

Ask potential suppliers about their distribution network. Do they deliver nationwide? Can they meet short lead times in urban centers and remote provinces? Do they offer support for bulk orders or regular delivery schedules?

With multiple branches across Thailand, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Koh Samui, and Phuket, Food Project ensures fast, efficient delivery throughout the country. Their logistics team works around the clock to fulfil your orders reliably.

Look for Solid Customer Support

Your business deserves a partner that understands your operational challenges and offers real-time solutions when needed. Choose a supplier with dedicated account managers, responsive communication, and a proven commitment to after-sales service. Whether youre adjusting order volumes, managing returns, or scaling up operations, responsive support can make all the difference.

Food Project is known for its strong customer relationships. Our team works closely with chefs, restaurant owners, and purchasing managers to offer tailored recommendations, flexible ordering options, and responsive assistance whenever needed.

Why Food Project is the Trusted Choice

Food Project is a leading supplier of seafood ingredients in Thailand, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. They specialize in importing and distributing premium food ingredients, including fresh seafood, to hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and food ingredient wholesalers across Thailand. The company is known for its commitment to quality and dependable service. To learn more, contact Food Project Foodservice Solution.

Source : Primal
In order to stay relevant in a competitive and fast-paced marketplace, businesses need to communicate instantly, reliably, and directly with their customers. SMS remains one of the most effective ways to deliver time-sensitive updates, promotional offers, and personalized messages. But with so many providers in the market, how do you choose the right SMS service provider? Lets discuss what businesses and brands should consider when evaluating providers.

Why SMS Still Matters in Business Communication

SMS messages boast high open rates of up to 98%, with most messages read within minutes. If youre sending appointment reminders, limited-time promotions, or verification codes, SMS can cut through the noise. But to make the most of this channel, you need an SMS service provider thats dependable, scalable, and easy to use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an SMS Service Provider

1. Reliability and Uptime

Look for a provider with a proven track record of high uptime and direct connections to mobile networks. Downtime or delivery failures can cost your business revenue and reputation. SMS2PRO offers carrier-grade infrastructure, direct connectivity with Thai mobile operators, and service that meets international standards backed by certifications such as ISO/IEC 29110 and NBTC compliance.

2. Ease of Use

Your team shouldnt need technical expertise to send a campaign. A reliable SMS platform should offer an intuitive dashboard, clear campaign workflows, and easy list management. SMS2PROs portal is designed for all user levels, allowing teams to launch and monitor campaigns in minutes.

3. Scalability and Speed

Can the provider support high-volume sends without lag or delays? Whether youre sending 500 or 50,000 messages, SMS2PRO delivers within seconds, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes, from startups to enterprise operations.

4. Personalization Features

Generic messages dont perform well. A quality SMS service provider should allow for message customization using dynamic tags like customer names, order numbers, or booking times. With SMS2PROs dynamic text feature, your messages can feel personal without manual effort.

5. API Integration

If you need to automate your messaging or connect SMS with your CRM or internal systems, API access is essential. SMS2PRO provides robust SMS API support, enabling businesses to integrate messaging into websites, mobile apps, or e-commerce platforms effortlessly.

6. Transparent Pricing

Avoid hidden fees or complicated pricing structures. With SMS2PRO, youll find clear, competitive pricing starting from just 0.19 baht per message, plus options for bulk packages tailored to your needs.

7. Multilingual Support and Local Expertise

For businesses operating in Thailand or across ASEAN, its helpful to work with a provider that understands local languages, regulations, and mobile behavior. SMS2PROs customer support team speaks Thai, English, and Chinese, ensuring smooth communication and fast assistance when needed.

Ready to Power Up Your SMS Marketing?

Choosing the right SMS service provider can make a significant impact on your customer communication and conversion rates. With SMS2PRO, you get a reliable partner that helps you scale, personalize, and succeed. Contact SMS2PRO to explore custom SMS solutions for your business.

Source : Primal
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:

Comparison of chemical compositions of OOMs measured in Houston vs. Beijing. Credit: Communications Earth & Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-025-02310-4

Researchers at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) have published a paper in Communications Earth & Environment that demonstrates for the first time that using data gathered on atmospheric particles from Chinese megacities to characterize air quality for U.S. urban centers leads to significant inaccuracies.

Dr. Lee Tiszenkel, a UAH alumnus at the UAH Earth System Science Center and Dr. Shanhu Lee, a professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Earth Sciences at UAH, a part of The University of Alabama System, found the key to understanding the critical differences from one city to another came through painstaking field research in Houston, Texas.

"Much of our understanding of particle formation comes from studies conducted in Chinese megacities, so predictions and models of air quality in the urban United States will not be accurate," Tiszenkel says. "Research in Chinese megacities found that ultrafine particles could be traced back almost entirely to human activity like traffic, cooking, industry or heating.

"In the United States, however, the existence of green spaces in and surrounding urban areas means that emissions from trees and other emerging air pollutants emitted from urban human activities form particles by a different mechanism than was found in urban China. We found that the causes of urban air pollution cannot be generalized, and it highly depends on the specific cocktail of human and natural emissions."

In fact, according to the new research, urban new particle formation in Houston may even vary from season to season.

The work focuses on atmospheric ultrafine particles with sizes smaller than 100 nanometers, where 1 nanometer equals one billionth of a meter. Particles this small can have negative health effects, because they can be diffused into the lungs even more easily than larger particles.

"The knowledge that particles less than 100 nm penetrate deeply into the lungs has been known for a few decades now," Tiszenkel notes. "Similarly, the knowledge that these ultrafine particles form via gas-to-particle conversion in significantly polluted areas has been known since the 80s or 90s. However, the technology in particle detection and chemical composition is more recently catching up with this knowledge."

The study was made possible by a special instrument recently acquired by UAH's Earth System Science Center. The device, known by the tongue-twisting name of Filter Inlet for Gases and Aerosols High-Resolution Time-of-Flight Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometer, has UAH as its home base.

Taking science to the streets

"Chinese megacities tend to have a lot of concrete, higher populations and more relaxed vehicle emissions standards," Tiszenkel explains, "which results in an atmospheric chemistry that is heavily weighted towards anthropogenic compounds," substances that originate from human activity, rather than naturally occurring processes.

"In Houston, we found more influence from surrounding agriculture and rural areas dominated by biogenic emissions like monoterpenes that can become extremely low-volatility compounds upon oxidation."

Monoterpenes are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from plants and other sources, such as household cleaning products and deodorants, that can affect air quality and human health. They are a significant component of biogenic VOCsorganic gases released into the atmosphere by living organismsand play a significant role in atmospheric chemistry, influencing ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation, which in turn affects air quality.

Dr. Lee Tiszenkel, a UAH alumnus at the UAH Earth Systems Science Center, performed field research in Houston, Texas, focused on atmospheric ultrafine particles that can impact urban air quality. Credit: Shanhu Lee

"My previous research was mostly in the lab, where we can very precisely control the kind of environment we want to observe," the researcher says. "Results from those experiments are extremely useful for making conclusions about very specific chemical mechanisms, but, due to the constraints of our experimental setup, they are somewhat difficult to generalize to the real atmosphere. The ability to bring all of our instrumentation out into ambient environments links scientific theory and experimental observations to the real world."

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 ability to detect freshly formed clusters, for exampleparticles under 3 nanometers in diameteris a relatively recent innovation, with instruments capable of detecting these particles only coming out in the last 10 or 15 years, Tiszenkel reports.

"In addition, the mass spectrometry technology that enables the measurement of aerosol chemical composition and organic precursors at the kind of resolution required for comprehensive surveys of urban new particle formation is a more recent innovation," the researcher says. "Especially in urban areas with significant anthropogenic and biogenic emissions, these studies are essential to understand and improve urban air quality."

The study grew out of Tiszenkel's doctoral work with Lee as his advisor.

"I came to UAH with an atmospheric chemistry background, and I knew that atmospheric aerosols represented the biggest unknowns in our understanding of the chemical composition and climatic effects of Earth's atmosphere," Tiszenkel says. "It was easy to pursue that in Dr. Lee's lab at UAH where we have one of the most comprehensive instrument suites for understanding atmospheric particle formation and evolution in the country.

"We are the first group in the U.S., to our knowledge, to simultaneously measure size-resolved aerosol concentrations from newly formed particles up to micron sizes, gas-phase precursors and particle-phase chemical composition in-situ," the researcher says. "This means we are uniquely poised to make definitive conclusions of the causes of urban new particle formation at a molecular level, while minimizing unknown factors."

More information: Lee Tiszenkel et al, Sulfuric acid, base, and low-volatility organics contribute to aerosol nucleation in urban Houston, Communications Earth & Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-025-02310-4 Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Using X-ray spectrometry, archaeologists have found a way to distinguish iron from different time periods in America's colonial past, which may result in long-anticipated discoveries. Credit: Florida Museum of Natural History

On a dark night in late May 1543, a group of men snuck through the Native American town of Guachoya and stopped at the gated wall, where a body had recently been buried. Working quietly, they disinterred the body and carried it to a nearby river, where they wrapped it in shawls filled with sand and dropped it in the water. Thus ended the brief and brutal history of Hernando de Soto, a Spanish soldier who helped conquer Nicaragua, overthrow the Inca empire in Peru and famously led an extensive expedition and military campaign from present-day Florida up through South Carolina and west to Arkansas.

His men had decided to bury his body at first, but given that he'd convinced the Indigenous inhabitants that he was a god before he died of an unknown illnessa decidedly ungodlike thing to dothey later committed his body to a tributary of the Mississippi River, hoping no one would find him.

De Soto's expedition represented the longest sustained 16th-century incursion of Europeans into North America, but it was preceded and followed by several others, 15 in all. That's a problem for archaeologists. The Spanish left behind detailed records of their exploits in the Americas, but because they only had a vague sense of where they were at any given time, the exact routes they took remains unclear.

Archaeologists have sidestepped this issue by looking for things the Spanish left behind, especially iron, which they brought with them in great quantities. But the various expeditions, which often overlapped, makes things complicated.

"A wrought-iron nail from the 1500s looks like a wrought iron nail from the 1600s," said Charles Cobb, the Lockwood chair in historical archaeology at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

Nails account for more than half of all metal artifacts found in North America. This, of itself, is no small problem, said Lindsay Bloch, a courtesy faculty member at the Florida Museum and principal investigator at Tempered Archaeological Services.

"Archaeologists find lots and lots of rusty nails and other rusty iron objects. We often can't even tell what they are, so they get weighed, counted and put back in their bag. And usually, no one ever looks at them again," she said.

The Spanish had more than just nails. They used iron to make ax blades, horseshoes, breastplates, helmets, spokes, spears, knives, guns and more. They even brought along blacksmiths and farriers on their expeditions to repair and repurpose things on the go.

But these objects, like nails, are typically indistinguishable through time. From the moment Christopher Columbus laid anchor in the Bahamas through the conquest of Florida, there were too few changes in the style of metalworking for there to be readily observable diagnostic differences between iron objects made by the Spanish.

That may be about to change. Both Cobb and Bloch are co-authors of a new study in which they demonstrate that microscopic differences in iron from this time period can be spotted using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. They made this discovery by analyzing objects of unknown affinity, which they now think may have come from the de Soto expedition.

There are differing accounts of de Sotos aquatic burial. One account states this his body was wrapped in shawls filled with sand to weigh it down; another claims a log was hollowed out and his body placed inside before being committed to the water. Credit: Engraving from "Pioneers in the settlement of America: From Florida in 1510 to California in 1849" (1876). Florida Museum of Natural History

The study is published in the International Journal of Historical Archaeology.

Custer's last stand elevated the status of metal detectors, resulting in big discoveries

The new methodology follows on the heels of a quiet revolution that's been taking place in southeast archaeology, namely the recent adoption of metal detectors in large-scale survey work.

This kind of change might seem like a no-brainer from the outside. If an absolute novice were told to find ancient metal artifacts, a metal detector is probably the first thing they'd reach for. But these devices are in many ways antithetical to long-establishedand successfulmethods of archaeological excavation.

Before metal detectors existed, archaeologists relied solely on their own experience and intuition to find things. They'd set up a transect in a likely spot and dig test holes at regular intervals or scour a predetermined area for objects that had been exposed to the elements.

Whenever they found something, they'd clear away an excavation plot and slowly, meticulously work their way down through the sediment horizons while noting the exact location of each object. These methods are rigorously thorough and still in use. They've contributed the majority of what we know about ancient cultures that wasn't put down in writing.

When the first portable metal detectors were invented in the 1930s, archaeologists didn't have much of a need for them. But metal detectors did catch on with another group: Hobbyists and treasure hunters began finding metal objects all over the place, which they often kept or sold for profit. This didn't sit well with archaeologists, who were of the opinion shared by Indiana Jones that such things belong in a museum.

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"Metal detectors have a bad reputation in archaeology because they are often the go-to for people who loot historic sites," Bloch said.

So, for several decades, most archaeologists wouldn't have been caught dead with a metal detector, until 1983, when a wildfire in Montana cleared away the dense vegetation that covered the site of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer's last stand at the Battle of Little Bighorn. The conflict between the U.S. Army and an alliance of Indigenous tribes had taken place over a large area, which made the standard archaeological approach of shovel testing impractical. An enterprising research team, not wanting to waste the narrow window of opportunity, decided to give metal detection a try.

Their gumption paid off. Archaeologists recovered such a great amount and variety of munitions that they were able to retrace the harried steps of U.S. troops, who were routed during the two-day battle.

The Spanish brought along vast quantities of iron on their long treks through the American interior. On his ill-fated expedition to La Florida in 1559, Tristan de Luna brought along more than 60,000 nails, 1,332 horseshoes and over 1,400 pounds of mule shoes. Credit: Florida Museum image by Charles Cobb

Other archaeologists took note. "That made it a bit more legitimate for people, but it still took a long time for it to catch on, and it still hasn't caught on completely," Cobb said.

For his part, Cobb has no qualms with metal detectors and has made consistent use of them for the last several years. His first big breakthrough came in 2015, when he participated in an archaeological survey in Mississippi. The survey was primarily undertaken to locate ancestral Chickasaw sites. On a whim, they decided to bring out a few metal detectors.

Native Americans often traded iron objects they obtained from the Spanish, so it was reasonable to expect there might be a few items lying around that might be indicative of a former habitation. Instead, they discovered what was likely the site of a major battle between de Soto's army and the Chickasaw that archaeologists had spent decades searching for.

Other breakthroughs soon followed. Before about 15 years ago, fewer than 100 European objects had been found at North American Indigenous sites outside of Florida. That number has since swiftly increased, leaving archaeologists looking for better ways to determine who these objects belonged to.

One option would be to analyze impurities in the iron. The process of refining iron ore by smelting and forging it leaves a substance that is very nearly 100% iron, but not quite. The more forging a metal is subjected to, the purer its content will be, but trace elements like copper, vanadium and manganese stubbornly resist removal. The proportions of those trace elements are specific to the geographic location where they were deposited. These differences can theoretically be used to determine where a hunk of iron had originally been mined from.

Metals lend themselves well to X-ray analysis because of their high density, and fortunately for Cobb, an expert on the subject happened to work just down the hall from his office.

"She won't brag on herself, but Lindsay literally wrote the manual on how archaeologists should use X-ray fluorescence spectrometry when she was a grad student," Cobb said.

The purity of iron artifacts and the trace elements they contain differ through time

Since their study was intended as a proof of concept, the authors decided to cast a wide net by looking at iron material from multiple places and time periods associated with Spanish colonialism. Among the sites included were the first Spanish colony in the Americas, established by Columbus in 1492; several Spanish missions; the 16th century capital of La Florida (located in present-day South Carolina); the de Soto/Chickasaw battle site Cobb had helped excavate; a British fort; and three 19th century plantations.

They also included iron from a site in Alabama known as the Marengo complex. The area comprises excavations from several villages and is believed to be somewhere near the Indigenous town of Mabila, where de Soto's men engaged in an even more devastating battle than the one they'd have with the Chickasaw a few months later.

Many North American Indigenous towns were enclosed in a protective wooden palisade, as seen in this depiction of Pomeiooc in modern-day Virginia. Credit: Engraving by Theodor De Bry, from "A brief and true report of the new found land of Virginia" (1588), Florida Museum of Natural History

Although objects from the Chickasaw battle unambiguously came from the de Soto expedition, the provenance of those from the Marengo complex is less certain. De Soto certainly traveled through the area and left behind a significant store of supplies after the loss of life incurred during the fighting, which reduced the expedition's ability to haul heavy equipment through the wilderness.

But two decades later, another Spanish expedition came through the area led by Tristan de Luna, who established a nearby settlement that has also yet to be discovered. Grueling starvation and conflict forced de Luna to abandon the settlement, leaving behind supplies that would have been virtually indistinguishable from those of his predecessor. Thus, archaeologists working at the Marengo complex can't be sure which of the two expeditions artifacts in the area came from.

Though de Soto and de Luna visited some of the same places and were met with similar fates (though De Luna was merely deposed by his men rather than dying outright), their expeditions differ in one important regard. De Soto lived in Spain when he began assembling ships, men and supplies for the trip, and he sourced all of his iron equipment from Europe. De Luna got his supplies from New Spain in South America. He also strongly relied on his men to bring their own assorted iron tools along.

In an early test of the X-ray fluorescence spectrometry method in archaeology, a 2013 study of iron artifacts from Pensacola (known to have come from De Luna) and others from Tallahassee (thought to have come from de Soto) yielded tantalizing but inconclusive results indicating there were elemental differences between the two.

Hoping to find something more robust, Bloch scanned the assemblage of artifacts they'd gathered with a handheld X-ray spectrometer and held her breath.

As a proof of concept, the results were a success. The types of impurities in iron varied markedly through time. The authors say the differences were so consistent that, going forward, they can be reliably used as a diagnostic feature.

Small amounts of manganese, for example, were found in some artifacts from the 16th century, but this element was almost entirely absent in iron from later periods. Bismuth was more likely to show up in 18th and 19th century artifacts, and several impuritiesincluding titanium, ruthenium and zirconiumwere associated with iron from the late 16th and the 17th centuries.

The overall quality of iron also differed through the ages. Iron artifacts from the mid-16th century had the fewest impurities, and of these, horseshoes had the highest iron content. There was a significant dip in iron quality associated with the 16th and 17th centuries, corresponding with the greater variety of impurities in artifacts from this time. The quality of iron from later periods improved, but it never reached the level of purity found in objects from the early expeditions.

Their results also suggested that the iron recovered from the Marengo complex had likely come from de Soto, but the authors say it's still too soon to tell. To be certain, they'll need to take measurements from additional objects that they can pinpoint to specific expeditions that can be used as a standard. And X-rays, while proven to be informative in archaeological contexts, are the quick and dirty way to collect data.

To really get down to the fine-grained differences, Cobb said, they will need to use a method called isotopic analysis, which gives more precise (and expensive) results. The authors are currently in the process of applying for a grant that would allow them to do just that.

Additional authors of the study are Nicolas Delsol of the Universite Laval; Gifford Waters of the Florida Museum of Natural History; Edmond Boudreaux III of Mississippi State University; Chester DePratter, James Legg and Steven Smith of the University of South Carolina; Ashley Dumas of the University of West Alabama; V. James Knight Jr. of the University of Alabama; and Brad Lieb of the Chickasaw Nation.

More information: Lindsay Bloch et al, Spanish Signatures? XRF Analysis of Iron Artifacts in the American Southeast, International Journal of Historical Archaeology (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s10761-025-00796-4
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers predict that future climatic change is likely to cause declines in reindeer abundances and their distribution at rates rarely seen over the last 21,000 years.

Reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, are an Ice Age species that have survived many episodes of Arctic warming. They are uniquely adapted to Arctic environments, where they regulate ecosystems and sustain the livelihoods of many Indigenous Peoples.

Despite being one of the most abundant herbivores in the Arctic, climate change has contributed to a loss of nearly two-thirds of their global abundance over the last three decades.

An international team of researchers, led by the University of Adelaide and the University of Copenhagen, has looked back 21,000 years and examined how reindeer responded to past climatic events, asking whether they will be able to cope in the future. The team's work appears in Science Advances.

"Using fossils, ancient DNA and computer models, we reconstructed changes in the abundance and distribution of reindeer over the past 21,000 years at resolutions never done before, and we directly compared these to future predictions," says lead investigator Dr. Elisabetta Canteri, from the University of Adelaide and University of Copenhagen.

"This revealed that populations of reindeer have experienced major declines during periods of rapid climate warming, but the losses expected in the coming decades due to future climate change are likely to be even more severe than those in the past."

The research team identified populations in North America as being particularly vulnerable.

Simulated abundances (weighted ensemble average from the 50 'best' process-explicit models) from 21,000 years BP until 1500 C.E. across the Holarctic region. White grid cells show glacial ice. Blue diamonds show fossil occurrences. Blue polygons show subdivision of Holarctic range into Europe, Asia, and North America. Credit: Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adu0175

"Our forecasts show that these North American caribou populations are most at risk from climate warming, with declines of up to 80% likely by 2100 unless there are major cuts to greenhouse gas emissions and increased investment in wildlife management and conservation," says Associate Professor Damien Fordham, Deputy Director of the Environment Institute at the University of Adelaide, who co-led the research.

"These declines are likely to have far-reaching ecological implications that will further increase the vulnerability of caribou in North America and reindeer in Eurasia to climatic warming and other stressors."

Reindeer and caribou help maintain plant diversity in the tundra by feeding on some plants and influencing how others grow, meaning that where they disappear, plant diversity is likely to decline.

"A reduction in tundra plant diversity resulting from the loss of reindeer and caribou will have many cascading effects, including reduction of carbon storage in Arctic soils," says Professor Eric Post, from University of California Davis, who contributed to this research.

"Continued losses will likely further exacerbate climatic warming through the release of soil carbon to the atmosphere, which of course would further threaten reindeer and caribou as well as ourselves. For thousands of years, the well-being of our own species has benefited directly from healthy reindeer and caribou populations. Now, more than ever, we need to ensure their well-being in turn."

Associate Professor Fordham says the results of this research show that urgent action is required.

"Increasing investment in the management and conservation of reindeer and caribou populations, particularly in North America, where losses are forecast to be greatest, will benefit the persistence of this species and the services it provides to Arctic ecosystems and the communities that depend on them."

More information: Elisabetta Canteri et al, Mismatch in reindeer resilience to past and future warming signals ongoing declines, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adu0175. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adu0175 Journal information: Science Advances
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A North Atlantic right whale generated by AI. Credit: Duke MaRRS Lab

Scrolling through social media, you may have dallied on reels of Leonardo DiCaprio dancing or Tom Cruise crooning, only to realize they're spoofs created with artificial intelligence. Hyper-realistic videos and images like thesealso called deepfakesare notorious for celebrity pranking. But the technology has serious scientific applications, too. In the field of ecology, for example, AI doppelgangers of rare species could improve efforts to understand, monitor and protect them.

Specifically, wildlife deepfakes could help train AI models to detect wildlife in footage from satellites, planes and drones. Ecologists increasingly rely on such bird's-eye imagery to study species behavior and population trends.

"We are truly in the age of big data when it comes to remote sensing in ecology and conservation," says Dave Johnston, director of the Marine Robotics and Remote Sensing Lab at Duke's Nicholas School of the Environment. "Over the past two decades, our ability to collect high-resolution remote-sensing imagery has grown exponentially, largely due to advances in drone technology and increased satellite capabilities."

Augmenting data

Traditionally, researchers had to use their own eyes to scour satellite and aerial images for target species. Now, AI detection tools can expedite the process. The key is in the data used to train the computer models. The models need to "see" lots and lots of realistic examples of a species to know what to look for in field footage.

For some common wildlife, copious footage exists, so assembling training data is fairly easy. But footage is often limited for species that are rare, that blend into their surroundings or that live in inaccessible areas, such as war zones.

"One of the big challenges in ecology is the idea of data scarcity," says Henry Sun, a 2025 graduate of the Nicholas School who double-majored in biology and marine science and conservation, with a minor in computer science. "For a species where you only have several hundred individuals, you're just not going to have diverse enough images to be able to train a good AI detection model."

What's an ecologist to do? One promising option is to beef up scant training data with AI-generated, or synthetic, datain essence, deepfakes. This approach, called data augmentation, could enable new ecological insights, according to a recent paper in Nature.

Sun, a former Nicholas School Rachel Carson Scholar and North Carolina Space Grant Undergraduate Research Scholar, recently investigated the topic of data augmentation for his senior thesis, which he plans to publish. Specifically, he explored whether AI could produce images realistic enough to supplement drone footage of the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, whose population has declined to fewer than 400 individuals. Theoretically, synthetic data could be used to help train other AI tools to detect North Atlantic right whales in real aerial footage.

Sun's research was inspired by a larger collaboration between the Nicholas School and several Canadian organizationsincluding the Canadian Space Agency, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the University of New Brunswick and the environmental consulting group Hatfield Consultantsto build a space-based detection system for North Atlantic right whales, which are notoriously elusive, in large part because of their small population.

"There's a lot of ocean, and despite the fact that whales are coming back, there's still a very small number of them compared to the area that you have to search," says Johnston, who was Sun's thesis advisor. "And so that means we need very efficient tools to find them. But it also means that we don't often have really good archives of data to train those models to identify them."

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To create deepfake whales, Sun and his team used diffusion models, which generate images in response to prompts in the form of descriptive text, an exemplary image or both. Although other researchers have explored ways to augment data for use in whale detection, the team says it's the first to use diffusion models for this purpose.

The researchers used several commercially available diffusion models that are pre-trained on reams of internet data. In other words, these base models, as they're known, are primed to produce a variety of images in response to prompts.

Sun and his team experimented with several methods of image generation, first using text prompts, then image prompts, and finally a method called fine-tuning, which included text and image prompts. Fine-tuning is a way to improve the performance of a base model for a specific taskin this case, producing high-resolution, hyper-realistic whale photosby further training it on a smaller, more specific dataset.

"Sometimes the diffusion model produces anatomically deformed whale images, like whales that are conjoined or whales with multiple sets of fins, which shows that it hasn't exactly learned the most accurate representation yet," Sun explains. Fine-tuning can teach the model to avoid those mistakes.

Sometimes the models created anatomically deformed whales, like this two-tailed humpback. Credit: Duke MaRRS Lab

Testing credibility

All told, the team created hundreds of aerial images of North Atlantic right whales, and for comparison, hundreds of aerial images of humpback whales. Because far more real-life footage of humpbacks is available for training generative AI, the team hypothesized that their models would produce more realistic synthetic humpback imagery.

The last step was to test the veracity of their deepfake whales. Were they credible? To answer that question, the researchers fed their photos into a Google tool called Reverse Image Search, which analyzes an input image, searches the internet for similar pictures, and produces results. In this case, the goal was to see if Google could recognize the whales depicted in the synthetic data and return images of the same species.

In the fake photos produced by text or image prompts, Google mistook many North Atlantic right whales for humpbacks. By contrast, it correctly identified both species of whale in almost all of the images produced through fine-tuning.

The team also found that images of North Atlantic right whales created through fine-tuning were more accurate than those generated with text or image prompts alone.

The next phase of the research is to investigate whether synthetic whale imagery can indeed supplement training data for AI detection models. As a starting point, Sun enlisted Duke undergraduate Max Niu to begin basic testing.

"Max has been training deep-learning models using both real images and some of the fake images that I've made," Sun says. The idea is "to see if there's a proportion of fake images that will benefit the model."

Walking the line

This fall, Sun will continue his studies as a Ph.D. student at the Duke Marine Lab, working in the lab of Juliet Wong. Although he plans to turn his attention from whales to sea urchins, he is committed to helping demystify AI for researchers.

"Something that I'm extremely interested in is capacity-building for natural scientists in the realm of artificial intelligence, because I think increasingly, these are skills that everyone needs," Sun says. To that end, Sun hopes to plan AI-related outreach events, such as the hour-long session he hosted during Duke Oceans Week last March about using AI in ocean science.

As more ecologists turn to AI, however, ethical considerations will become more pressing, says Holly Houliston, a Ph.D. student with the British Antarctic Survey and the University of Cambridge, who helped supervise Sun's work as a visiting scholar at the Marine Lab. The data centers that power AI are energy- and water-intensive, so practices like generative AI data augmentation should be used conservatively in targeted ways, according to Houliston.

"You have to be really clear on the ecological question you're trying to answer. For example, if you are looking at calvesso, baby whalesthen you might want to generate more images of these younger animals because you probably only have a few. But if you've got a balanced dataset, then maybe you don't need to generate more synthetic imagery," Houliston says. "The use of diffusion models and generative AI in general has environmental impacts. Studies like this can help us ecologists understand how to responsibly use them."

As Johnston notes, "this intersection between computer science and environmental sciences is only going to grow."
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Opossums had the highest infection rates with Trypanosoma cruzi in the area studied. Credit: Alexander Heni

When night falls in Panama's forests, the time of the opossums begins. The marsupials, which have spent the day sleeping in trees, climb down the trunks and search for fruit, frogs or eggs on the ground. The omnivores often carry a hazardous parasitethe Chagas disease pathogen.

A new study by Ulm University published in the journal One Health has now shown that the more humans intervene in nature, the more host animals are infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, and the more the tropical disease spreads.

The study analyzes small mammals in various habitats: from pristine rainforests to commercial timber plantations. The research provides new insights into how land use and changes in biodiversity can contribute to the spread of zoonotic pathogens.

Chagas disease is caused by the single-celled parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The main vectors are blood-sucking predatory bugs, which usually pass on the pathogen via feces or urine when they bite humans or animals in search of blood meals. In addition to humans, more than 180 wild and domestic animal species can serve as hosts, which makes combating the disease particularly difficult.

According to the World Health Organization, 6 to 7 million people are infected worldwide, with about 75 million people living in risk areasmainly in Latin America. If left untreated, the infection can lead to severe heart or digestive problems, which can be life-threatening.

Although there are drugs that are effective in the early stages of the disease, there is no vaccine. The disease is currently spreadingfavored by climate change, which is creating new environmental conditions in which the predatory bug can establish itself as a vector.

"Our results show how human influence affects the diversity of wild animalsand how the loss of biodiversity changes the dynamics of pathogens," says first author Dr. Magdalena Meyer from the Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conversation Genomics at Ulm University.

For their study, the researchers examined more than 800 small mammals at 23 locations in a region around the Panama Canalin pristine rainforests, on protected islands, in fragmented forest patches and in teak monocultures.

Opossums are spreadingand increasing the risk of infection

The researchers found that the composition of the wildlife communities changed. In disturbed habitats, it was primarily the adaptable opossums that prevailed. Because the marsupials are particularly susceptible hosts, the Chagas pathogen also benefited from this.

"The reinforced spread of opossums increases the hazard of the pathogen jumping to livestock, pets or humans," explains Dr. Meyer. At the same time, the scientists observed that the genetic diversity of another host speciesthe spiny ratdecreases in disturbed habitats. This also favors the spread of the pathogen.

The results of the study have direct implications for health protection: millions of people worldwide are affected by Chagas disease, particularly disadvantaged population groups in Latin America. However, this neglected tropical disease receives little international attention.

"Our research impressively shows how closely human, animal and environmental health are linked within the meaning of the One Health approach," emphasizes study leader Professor Simone Sommer. "The best protection against the spread of such diseases is the preservation of intact ecosystems with their natural biodiversity."

More information: Magdalena Meyer et al, Changes in biodiversity drive trypanosome infections of wildlife in Panama, One Health (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2025.101113
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Single-photon skyrmions emitted from a QD coupled to a Gaussian microcavity. Credit: Nature Physics (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-025-02973-y

Skyrmions are localized, particle-like excitations in materials that retain their structure due to topological constraints (i.e., restrictions arising from properties that remain unchanged under smooth deformations). These quasiparticles, first introduced in high-energy physics and quantum field theory, have since attracted intense interest in condensed matter physics and photonics, owing to their potential as robust carriers for information storage and manipulation.

Researchers at Sun Yat-sen University and Tianjin University recently reported the first experimental realization of single-photon quantum skyrmions (i.e., localized light structures) in a semiconductor cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) system. Their paper, published in Nature Physics, could open new possibilities for the study of quantum light-matter interactions, while also contributing to the advancement of photonic quantum devices.

"Our work was motivated by the longstanding challenge of realizing topological photonic structuresspecifically skyrmionsat the quantum level," Ying Yu, co-senior author of the paper, told Phys.org.

"While optical skyrmions have been demonstrated in classical optics using bulk setups, creating them with single photons on a chip-scale platform remained an open problem. We aimed to bridge this gap by leveraging solid-state cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED) with engineered spinorbit coupling to generate single-photon skyrmions."

The main objective of this recent study by Yu and his colleagues was to realize quantum skyrmions using a deterministically coupled quantum dot-based microcavity system. In addition, the team wished to explore the topological properties of these quasiparticles and assess their robustness against perturbations.

"We designed and fabricated a semiconductor-dielectric Gaussian microcavity with strong photonic spinorbit coupling, which supports skyrmionics cavity modes," explained Yu.

Polarization profiles of the cavity-enhanced single-photon skyrmions. Credit: Nature Physics (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-025-02973-y

"These modes are carefully engineered superpositions of Laguerre-Gaussian states that carry orbital angular momentum, which is essential for forming skyrmions. By embedding a single InAs quantum dot at the center of this cavity under magnetic fields, we were able to selectively couple the dot's emission with circular polarization to specific cavity modes and generate single photons whose polarization states form skyrmionic textures."

To realize quantum optical skyrmions, the researchers thus employed a combination of various technologies and experimental techniques. The most notable among these were a precisely designed microcavity system, the careful positioning of quantum dots in this system and the collection of polarization-resolved single-photon measurements.

"We were the first to experimentally realize quantum optical skyrmionssingle photons that carry skyrmionic polarization textureson an integrated nanophotonic platform," said Yu. "Beyond demonstrating their deterministic generation, we also verified their topological invariance under optical perturbations."

This recent study by Yu and his colleagues could open new valuable possibilities for the development of quantum photonic systems and chiral quantum optics. In the future, the newly realized quantum skyrmions could be leveraged to develop quantum information systems, high-dimensional quantum communication protocols and topologically protected quantum memories.

As part of their next studies, the researchers hope to realize other skyrmionics structures using similar experimental techniques. For instance, they would like to realize skyrmioniums, composite topological structures with a tunable topology that could prove valuable for the advancement of spintronic and quantum devices.

"We are also finding ways to generate entanglement between polarization and skyrmions on a single photon without external magnetic fields," added Yu.

"Additionally, we aim to integrate these devices into scalable photonic circuits, potentially enabling new architectures for quantum computing and information processing. We are also investigating the use of anisotropic and chiral materials to further control and diversify the topological features of emitted photons."

Written for you by our author Ingrid Fadelli, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis 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: Jiantao Ma et al, Nanophotonic quantum skyrmions enabled by semiconductor cavity quantum electrodynamics, Nature Physics (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-025-02973-y. Journal information: Nature Physics

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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Remote and hybrid work became the norm after the COVID-19 pandemic, but more workplaces, like Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Disney and even the federal government have mandated that employees return to offices in recent years. But not all employees are returning at the same rate.

A U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics survey reveals that the share of employed people who spent time working at home on days worked was about the same in 2024 (33%) as in 2023 (35%).

However, the share of men who spent some time working at home decreased from 34% in 2023 to 29% in 2024, while the share of women who did so remained the same at 36%. In fact, other data suggests that some women have left the workforce altogether due to return-to-office requirements.

What's striking about women who are opting to work from home more than men is that it also means many women may be at a growing disadvantage. Recent research reveals that face-time at the office is more likely to lead to pay raises and bonuses, promotions, and other perks like better assignments and career visibility.

So what does this mean for women?

"One possible reason why women are not returning to the office as much as men are is that they may value that remote and hybrid work provides greater flexibility than men do," said Elizabeth L. Campbell, assistant professor of management at the UC San Diego Rady School of Management, who studies gender differences in the workplace.

"Despite progress society has made toward gender equity broadly, women still shoulder the bulk of childcare and elder care, and remote/hybrid work makes it easier to balance these additional caregiving responsibilities with a job."

Elizabeth Lyons, an associate professor of management at the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy, added, "Fewer women physically present in the office could raise red flagsespecially if that leads to gaps in recognition or advancement, even when performance is equal."

Lyons is an expert on remote work trends and who co-founded the firm Amplisal, which helps companies manage and adapt to hybrid and all-remote work policies.

Campbell and Lyons spoke with University Communications about what these trends meanand how employers and employees alike can work to close the career gap that's emerging in the return-to-office era.

What do you make of the data showing men are returning to the office at higher rates than women? What organizational or cultural forces do you think are driving that divide?

Elizabeth Campbell: Data suggesting men are returning to the office at slightly higher rates than women raises the question: "Is this due to the type of jobs and industries that men and women work in, or a preference among women to prioritize work that allows flexibility?"

Generally, a growing number of firms are mandating their employees return to the office and bolster this choice by pointing to the need for improved productivity and creativity. But when you look at the datathere isn't a clear and easy answer to this.

When it comes to innovation, Professor Lyons' research highlights that certain work tasks, such as collaborating or creative idea generation, can benefit from being in person. But other data suggests productivity does not dip when employees work fully remotely and can even increase in some jobs depending on the type of task being completed. In fact, if you give people more flexibility, other outcomes improve, like reduced turnover and improved job satisfaction.

There is also very little data on the impact that remote work has on organizational culture, due in part to how slowly org culture changes over time. Something we talk about in our MBA class at Rady is that empirically analyzing changes in organizational culture takes years and is quite challenging to accomplish, because often, real indicators of work culture are not those most obvious to employees and managers.

So, I question firms when they say in-person work is necessary for maintaining a culture. I think more likely is that in-person dynamics is what is most familiar for people when trying to assess the vibes of a company, for lack of a better word, and now making that assessment is harder.

In addition, so much has changed at a societal level in the United States since remote work became widespread from the pandemic and new generations are now entering the workforce that I'd imagine many observable shifts in organizational culture are likely occurring due to a myriad of societal and cultural changes, not just remote work.

My educated assessment is that a big part of this push to return to the office is that remote/hybrid work changes the manager-subordinate game fundamentally.

Having hybrid and remote subordinates requires firms and managers to develop new ways of managing because the old ways of monitoring how office work is done doesn't apply to remote and hybrid employees. New processes will need to emerge! But this can take time, be expensive, and many people resist change like this.

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From a firm or economic productivity perspective, what are the obstacles leading to the gender gap in the office return and how can they be overcome?

Elizabeth Lyons: One reason why being a remote worker in an organization with in-office workers can hinder performance is that remote workers may not be as easy to coordinate with when they have to perform team tasks. For example, remote workers may be less visible to in-office workers and, thus, less likely to be asked for input. In-office workers may also have more opportunities to share ideas that lead to high-impact projects through low-stakes "water cooler" conversations.

When all workers in an organization or in a team are working remotely, everyone will be seeking out input from other remote workers, and this gap is less likely to emerge. Remote workers can mitigate some of this risk by being proactive communicators. For example, by sharing uninvited and spontaneous ideas and by being available to chat whenever possible, although the latter may reduce the benefits of remote work for females in particular.

Recognition gaps may emerge if managers have more certainty about the effort or performance of in-office employees who they observe directly than about remote workers who are less observable. In other words, if the workplace continues to be optimized for in-person employees, remote workers are likely to experience fewer opportunities to advance.

On the other hand, if the gender gap in the return to office reflects a difference in optimal working conditions because, for example, in-person working arrangements are optimized for the average male worker, then the gap may signal a potential reduction in labor market outcome gender gaps.

While both men and women say they prefer hybrid schedules to being fully remote, women are likely choosing remote work at higher rates than men because it serves them better, all things considered. Organizations experiencing this gap may consider how they can best support the success of all their employees rather than optimizing for a single worker type.

What risks do women face if they remain remote while men return to the officeespecially in terms of visibility, promotion, and leadership opportunities?

Campbell: As Professor Lyons discusses, there are real risks for any remote-only employees in terms of visibility and recognition. I'd imagine the risk might be highest in a scenario where a firm's workforce is majority in-person and a select few individuals are fully remote. This may lead those remote workers to become less visible to the in-person employees and remote workers may be less likely to be top-of-mind for things like feedback.

I'd predict this visibility problem also likely extends to things like accessing "stretch assignments," which are often those career-advancing opportunities that a manager might give you a chance to help you gain visibility with top brass in a firm. And if women are more likely to accept or seek out hybrid or remote positions, then these challenges begin to unevenly impact male and female employees, which becomes a source of inequity.

Based on my research on career support, I would encourage remote workers to ensure they find a good mentor and sponsor who can help ensure you are not overlooked for career-advancing opportunities and who can advocate for you.

There is research suggesting women may be less likely to receive sponsorship compared to men, so this could create a situation of a double-penalty in access to opportunities for women.

If you are looking for ways to manage this challenge yourself, it may take steps such as "managing up" with your manager to consistently check in with them on what your career goals are and what opportunities in the firm exist that might provide opportunities for growth.

How can organizations ensure that remote or hybrid women aren't left behind in terms of influence and advancement?

Campbell: I mentioned above how one thing people can do to manage this issue themselves is to seek out a good mentor or sponsor who can advocate for you, and also "manage up" to discuss your goals and what opportunities you would like to be considered for in the workplace. Simultaneously, an issue with these suggestions is it forces employees to solve this problem when I think firms can do more to ensure equitable access to opportunities.

I would encourage firms to think carefully about whether the mandatory return-to-office policies are in fact in the best interest of their company. Are employees still being productive despite more flexible work practices? What specific in-person outcomes is the firm seeking to maximize with this return-to-office?

When it comes to ensuring people are still kept top-of-mind for career-advancing opportunities, I would encourage firms to formalize these decision-making processes rather than rely on informal recommendations alone. There is ample research that shows relying on informal recommendations and referrals exacerbates inequality and allows only those "who are in the know" get considered for opportunities, not necessarily the most qualified.

What are the long-term risks to innovation or team cohesion if office presence becomes a gendered divide?

Lyons: Given the importance of casual, unstructured conversations for idea generation and innovation, important ideas are more likely to be generated by co-located workers (i.e. those in the same physical space).

Thus, the gender gap in who is working in the office suggests that innovation may increasingly be determined by males. The gender gap in innovation is already largefor example, 83% of inventors on international patents are male and 17% are femaleand has negative implications for consumer well-being and firm performance. Thus, even if work from home serves female employees well, the gender gap in these arrangements may be harmful for organizational performance and general welfare.

Some companies are mandating in-office time partly for culture-building. Is there a business case for allowing gender-differentiated flexibilityor does it risk entrenching inequality?

Lyons: I do not think there's a case for gender-differentiated flexibility, as managers are rarely sufficiently privy to employee circumstances to evaluate what work arrangement best suits them, and gender does not provide sufficient information to allow managers to make that assessment.

However, I think there are good reasons for many organizations to allow employees to make decisions about what work arrangements best support their productivity and ability to continue in their job.

If a workforce is split between remote and in-person, ensuring that employees do meet in person, especially early in employee tenure, is important for successful teamwork. Managers should also adapt their practices appropriately to support employee and organizational success.
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Women in Toliara Province, Western Madagascar, fold fishing nets after a catch. Credit: Elen Marlen

Researchers at the King Center on Global Development are addressing challenges such as gender-based violence and low labor participation, with the aim to inform supportive policy interventions.

When it comes to managing the administrative tasks that are required to run a home and raise a family, women bear the brunt of the responsibility. According to one study of women in the United States, mothers take on 7 out of 10 so-called mental load tasks, which range from planning meals to scheduling activities for children.

All that extra work takes a toll, including on society: Women who carry more mental load are less interested in national politics (men who carry more mental load also report less political interest, but fewer men are in that position).

But what about in a low-income country? Do women face similar burdens? Sigrid Weber, an affiliated researcher at the Stanford King Center on Global Development and postdoctoral fellow at the Immigration Policy Lab, wanted to find out.

In an ongoing survey that will eventually include about 1,300 male and female household members in Zambia, so far the answer seems to be yes: Women shoulder more mental load than their male partners (and more physical load too).

But Weber's research goes further, aiming to explore the advantages and disadvantages of different household responsibilities. For instance, do women seek out some taskssuch as shopping at the market or participating in school meetingsto increase their power or influence at home or in their community?

"We want to learn if empowering tasks give women access to resources or community with other women and, if so, what does their political and economic participation look like" compared to women whose responsibilities keep them mostly in their homes, Weber explains, adding that women may have different reasons for preferring certain tasks over others. After all, "if you're tired and food insecure, you might just want to sweep your floor and be done with it."

Using gender and equity insights to drive better policy and practice is a top priority for the King Center, which supports scholars working to improve access to health care, education, economic opportunities, and political representation for women and other groups who have historically faced discrimination.

Weber, a political scientist, is one of many researchersincluding undergraduates, graduate students, pre- and postdoctoral fellows, and facultyseeking to understand how gender affects development outcomes.

The problem of violence

Any discussion about obstacles to women's economic opportunities in any country or context inevitably includes gender-based violence. At the King Center, political science professors Lisa Blaydes and Beatriz Magaloni are co-principal investigators of the Gender-Based Violence in the Developing World initiative, which seeks to study not just individual risk factors for womenfor example, educational attainment or alcohol use by partnersbut also the larger context in which such violence occurs, including the household, workforce, and broader community.

The initiative focuses on how social, political, and judicial institutions have enabled and shaped responses to the problem of gender-based violence.

Blaydes, who studies the Middle East, has a theoretical and conceptual approach to the topic and aims to fill a research gap in her own field of political science.

Few scholars have looked at how the political realm shapes private harmbut that's exactly where Blaydes is focusing her attention. "We haven't really spent a lot of time thinking about the way political institutions and political culture influence intimate partner violence," she says.

In a recently published paper, Blaydes and her co-authors, including political science professor James D. Fearon and political science Ph.D. candidate Mae MacDonald, introduce a model that demonstrates how societal factorssuch as economic opportunities for women, laws that criminalize domestic abuse, and social norms associated with gender equalityinfluence domestic abuse.

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Appearing in the Annual Review of Political Science, the paper also provides an overview of existing research and invites political scientists to take on the topic.

"We really wanted to have a statement piece for how political science should engage with these topics," she says. "Political science has a unique opportunity to contribute to this literature because most of the actionable remedies"laws that criminalize domestic violence and social safety net programs that support survivors, for instance"run through political science channels."

Blaydes' co-principal investigator Magaloni, whose work focuses on Latin America, takes a more experimental approach. Her ongoing efforts include a randomized controlled trial in four high schools in Mexico testing whether cognitive behavioral therapy combined with leadership training for highly influential students can change attitudes about gender-based violence. Current research also examines whether gang wars increase gender-based violence in the impacted areas.

Magaloni's work is designed to identify interventions that might reduce gender-based violence; in May, she led, and the King Center co-hosted, a workshop for practitioners and academics to discuss the problem and possible solutions in Mexico and other developing countries.

"To be a woman in Mexico is to inhabit a field of threat," says Magaloni, who also directs the Poverty, Violence, and Governance Lab at Stanford. "State and academic narratives link violence to cartels and the war on drugs, yet gendered violence remains cast as collateral. We dispute that. Violence against women is not falloutit is foundational."

Another King Center scholarQuinn Mitsuko Parker, a Ph.D. student in Stanford's Oceans Departmentis studying intimate partner violence in a very specific context, small-scale fisheries in Madagascar, as part of a broader study examining the experience of marginalized communities in the fishing industry.

Through her research, which includes qualitative interviews with key stakeholders and women who work in the trade, Mitsuko Parker hopes to assess whether small-scale fishery jobs expose women to more violence or, by providing women with a way to make a living, mitigate the effects of violence.

"We don't just want to know if gender-based violence happens and to whom," Mitsuko Parker says. "We want to know how women are perceiving it and how they are experiencing it, which will help inform what they see as relevant interventions."

Small-scale fisheries have an outsized impact: They are an important source of food and jobs for many people around the world, especially in rural coastal areas. That means whether women are helped or harmed by working in the industry matters for the economic prospects of the women and their communities, Mitsuko Parker says.

Blaydes echoes that sentiment.

"People don't always think of gender-based violence as a topic related to economic development," she says. "But it's part of human thriving, to not be subjected to violence."

Addressing obstacles to political and economic participation

King Center scholars are also exploring the experience of women in public life, including politics and the workplace.

In April, King Center researcher Suhani Jalota, MBA '22, Ph.D. '24, a fellow at the Hoover Institution, gathered more than 150 people from academia, civil society organizations, government, private companies, and nonprofits for the inaugural Future of Work for Women Summit. Co-hosted by the King Center, the event was created by Jalota as a way for groups to discuss potential interventions and policies to address the problem of low labor force participation among women in developing countries, especially South Asia.

The potential benefits of increasing women's participation in the workforce are huge: According to data in the pre-summit report, companies in which women make up more than 30% of the executive team outperform those with fewer female leaders, and companies with gender diversity have lower turnover rates.

"This is not just about women," Jalota says. "It's about aligning incentives across different stakeholders to identify what solutions work in everyone's interest."

Jalota is intimately familiar with the issues: She founded Myna Mahila, an organization that seeks to empower women in their health and financial decisions, as an undergraduate. Her dissertation at Stanford, where she earned her Ph.D. in health policy and economics, was based on a randomized experiment she designed to compare the uptake of office and remote jobs among women in India who were previously not part of the labor force.

The labor force is only one arena where women are underrepresented; women are also vastly underrepresented in the political sphere. Soledad Artiz Prillaman is director of the Inclusive Democracy and Development (ID2) Lab, which was created in 2021 with support from the King Center to identify how and when the voices of marginalized peopleespecially womenare represented in political institutions in low- and middle-income countries; what policies best ensure such representation; and how political inclusion impacts broader development.

Prillaman is running a massive survey in two Indian states to assess how gender affects local politics, including the practice of proxy voting or sarpanch pati, a system in which the husband or a male relative of an elected woman actually makes the decisions.

Daniel Abraham Praburaj, who recently finished up a predoctoral research fellowship with Prillaman's lab, helped design and implement the ongoing survey, which so far has more than 6,000 respondents, including elected local government leaders, their family members, bureaucrats, and citizens.

In the two states, where half of local government seats are reserved for women, proxy voting "is one of the most important questions in political representation," Praburaj says. "Does women being elected to office actually lead to real political power and influence?"

The results so far are revealing. In fact, both men and women share power with their families, but when men hold political office, their wives' help is "complementary" to the men's power, Praburaj says. When women are the elected officials, "they don't hold the final decision-making power." Even more startling, society accepts the arrangement: 80% of those surveyed said family help is expected for elected officials.

The team is still conducting qualitative interviews to understand the resultsand design possible interventions that would increase women's political power in the face of long-standing patriarchal norms and sociopolitical disadvantages, including less education and financial resources.

Culturally suited solutions

A hallmark of King Center research is informing policy that can unlock development in ways that respect local culture and customs.

The report from Jalota's Future of Work for Women Summit, based on conversations with 25 private companies in India, including IBM, Walmart, and Tech Mahindra, described how those companies increased the ranks of women in their workforces. Solutions include flexible or remote work arrangements; interventions that encourage men to share in household responsibilities; government-subsidized maternity leave, childcare, and transportation to and from work; and training women in industry-relevant skills.

Magaloni is testing how to break the cycle of gender-based violence in Mexico, where 70% of women and girls over the age of 15 say they have experienced abuse. And Weber's research in Zambia will describe the differences between men's and women's household labor and assess how women's responsibilities affect their political participation. That research, in turn, can be used to design more effective interventions at the family or government level.

Using information about household responsibilities in Jordan, for instance, King Center postdoctoral fellow Giulia Buccione has shown that womenwho are generally in charge of water management in that countryreduce water consumption and are more likely to donate to water charities if they receive messaging on the sanctity of water in Islam, compared to women who do not receive such messaging.

That kind of intervention, however, can only be designed if aid organizations and policymakers know how families think about and handle basic tasks.

"We have to think about households as the basic political unit where negotiations take place and shape political preferences and outcomes," she says. "Learning about who takes charge of these things is important."

By centering women in their workfrom investigating the hidden costs of household labor in Zambia to political exclusion in India and gender-based violence in Mexicoscholars are not just generating new knowledge; they are helping to identify and understand the systems that hold inequality in place.

"A throughline to these studies is that they not only identify obstacles, but use their data and insights to tailor and test policies that can effectively alleviate those obstacles to better harness women's skills and knowledge," says Katherine Casey, faculty director of the King Center. "These are great examples of how research can shape policy design to move development forward."

More information: Lisa Blaydes et al, Understanding Intimate Partner Violence, Annual Review of Political Science (2025). DOI: 10.1146/annurev-polisci-041322-044022
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Luiza Braga appreciates the aroma of Arara coffee beans during drying after anaerobic fermentation. The method improved the quality of immature beans. Credit: Da Semente a Xicara Group/archive

In the selection of specialty coffees, those that score above 80 points in blind tests are free of physical and sensory defects. Greenish-colored beans are known to give the drink an astringent taste, which is described as harsh, pungent, and dry. These beans are therefore discarded, along with broken, black, burnt, pitted, or undersized beans.

However, in a study published in the journal Food and Bioprocess Technology, researchers from the Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU) in Patos de Minas (state of Minas Gerais, Brazil) conducted a series of fermentations with ripe and unripe fruits of the Arara cultivar of Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica).

As a result, they obtained beverages comparable to and even superior to those prepared with beans from only ripe fruits, following all the protocols of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), an international organization that sets standards for specialty coffees.

In blind cup tests, which evaluate coffee based on its sensory attributes, professional tasters (known as Q-graders) gave beverages containing a percentage of unripe fruit beans scores above 80, which defines specialty coffee.

The researchers achieved these results using self-induced anaerobic fermentation (SIAF), in which the fruits are placed in bioreactors200-liter polystyrene barrels that are hermetically sealedfor up to 96 hours after harvesting. No oxygen enters the bioreactors, and carbon dioxide is released through a valve.

The microorganisms naturally present in coffee fruits then carry out a series of biochemical processes that result in a distinctive coffee flavor. In some experiments, inoculantsspecific microorganisms previously isolated for this purposewere added to this type of fermentation.

"With this work, we saw that using SIAF at different fermentation times, with temperature and pH control and with or without the addition of inoculum, can not only minimize the deleterious effects of immature beans on the beverage but also make it superior, adding value to the product while still on the farm," says Luiza Braga, first author of the study, conducted as part of her master's degree in the Graduate Program in Food Engineering at the Faculty of Chemical Engineering (FEQ-UFU) in Patos de Minas.

"Anaerobic fermentation, carried out immediately after harvesting and before drying, is not a traditional process. However, coffee growers and experts have been seeking knowledge about the process because of the gain in flavor and aroma it brings to the drink, which can then fetch higher prices than those usually found on the market," says Libia Diniz Santos, a professor at FEQ-UFU and coordinator of the study.

Self-induced anaerobic fermentation (SIAF) is carried out in bioreactors, where microorganisms induce changes in coffee beans. Credit: Da Semente a Xicara Group/archive

The Arara cultivar was launched in 2012 by the Procafe Foundation after 15 years of research in search of a disease-resistant coffee adapted to the diverse climatic conditions of Brazil's Cerrado savanna biome. The drink is valued for its citrus notes and robust body, making it attractive to both the domestic and export markets.

The authors of the study used an artificial intelligence tool developed by the research group and noted that 70% of the fruits used in the experiments, which were harvested at Fazenda Chua in Patos de Minas, were immature.

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Despite using green beans in the beverages tasted by the panelists, the authors emphasize that the other SCA criteria were strictly followed. Thus, broken and small beans were discarded during preparation. Consequently, green beans represented 13% to 30% of the total beverage.

"We believe that if there had been 70% green beans in the beverage, even if fermented, this would have been noticeable in the final product," Santos points out.

A total of 32 treatments were tested, including different fermentation times ranging from 24 to 96 hours with and without temperature control. The combinations also included the presence or absence of inoculum, as well as submerged fermentation with 30% of the bioreactor filled with water or fermentation in a solid state without water.

The group developed an electronic device that monitors the pH and temperature and transmits the data from sensors inside the bioreactor to an external monitor. This eliminates the need to open the barrel and interfere with the experiment in order to collect information.

"When we controlled the external temperature at 27 C, we observed that the scores were higher, even higher than those of preparations containing only ripe beans. With this, we can demonstrate that anaerobic fermentation, especially in a solid state, adds sensory attributes that elevate the coffee to the special category," Braga explains.

The group now intends to understand which compound or compounds generated in the fermented green bean provide the sensory attributes that give the coffee its special qualities. Future work will also explore the effect of anaerobic fermentation on other coffee varieties.

More information: Luiza Manuela Alves Braga Cardoso et al, Transforming Challenges into Quality: The Power of Controlled Fermentation in Immature Arara Coffee Beans, Food and Bioprocess Technology (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s11947-025-03880-z

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Snapshot of the strongest tropical cyclone (category 5) simulated over the historical period across all downscaled simulations (noting that this does not correspond to a real-world event). During this simulated event the central MSLP reached a track minimum of 913.5-hPa with hourly maximum 10-m surface wind speeds of 72.6 m/sec. White shading shows cloudiness, yellow-red shading shows extreme 10-m wind speeds. Red boxes outline tracked tropical cyclones. Credit: Earth Sciences New Zealand (formerly NIWA)

Extreme rainfall in New Zealand from future cyclones could rise by up to 35%. New high-resolution modeling predicts that rainfall from tropical cyclones will significantly increase under global warming.

Earth Sciences New Zealand and the University of Waikato found that, under a high emissions scenario, extreme rainfall from cyclones could rise by up to 35% across the southwest Pacific, including for ex-tropical cyclones impacting Aotearoa New Zealand. The work is published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres.

Researchers used the latest climate change projections released last year by Earth Sciences NZ (then NIWA) with the Ministry for the Environment. Study lead and climate scientist Dr. Peter Gibson says they simulated more than 1,800 years of data from different climate models and levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

"We wanted to assess how the frequency and severity of tropical cyclones in the southwest Pacific may change by the end of the century. Under the full range of climate scenarios examined there was an increase in tropical cyclone rainfall. This was proportional to the rate of emissions, with the most pronounced rise in extreme rainfall occurring under the highest emissions," says Gibson.

"If that scenario plays out, we can expect around 3035% more extreme rainfall during tropical cyclones than we experience today. Even under the best-case scenario, we will still see an increase proportional to the warming experienced. Extreme wind speeds are also likely to increase, but not to the same extent."

The more greenhouse gases that are emitted, the higher temperatures get, with a high emissions scenario representing around a 3C increase by the end of the century. A warmer atmosphere holds more water, so when storms develop, they have access to more water vapor that can be released as heavier rainfall.

And while the model simulations didn't show an overall increase in the total number of cyclones by the end of the century, there is compelling evidence that the strongest (category 4 and above) will become more frequent.

"One or two ex-tropical cyclones typically affect New Zealand each year. However, it's the really big, much rarer events that cause the most damage. And the difference between a river flooding or not can often be small, so any increase in rainfall is significant and potentially very impactful," says Gibson.

The February 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle, which at its peak reached category 3, and the Auckland Anniversary weekend event, resulted in total estimated costs of $14.5 billion, with the total insured losses for both events totaling $3.8 billion, with $1.8 billion from Cyclone Gabrielle claims, and $2 billion from the Auckland anniversary weekend event. Most of the claims were because of widespread flooding.

Until now, most projections of tropical cyclones have relied on global climate models, which have a relatively low spatial resolution. This work refines those models to a regional scale that can zoom in closer and get a much more accurate picture.

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"The eye of a cyclone is fairly compact, at only tens of kilometers across. Global climate models are coarse, with each pixel going down to around 100km, meaning they miss much of the crucial detail and small-scale physics of a storm. Our refined regional model goes down to around a 12km resolution, making it a state-of-the-art dataset for assessing ex-tropical cyclones that impact New Zealand," says Gibson.

These findings, are consistent with other studies around the world, highlighting the potential for more intense tropical cyclones and heavier rainfall in the future, said Gibson. This indicates increasing risks for vulnerable communities across the southwest Pacific and New Zealand.

Gibson explains, "It's clear that if we reduce emissions, we will reduce warming, and we will mitigate the worst impacts of severe weather events. As computing capabilities improve, newer, high-resolution models will become available to create even more accurate and reliable long term climate projections of cyclones and their impacts.

"More research is being undertaken by Earth Sciences NZ into specific weather and climate hazards in the projections, to provide clarity on the future climate New Zealanders are likely to face in the decades to come."

More information: Peter B. Gibson et al, Downscaled Climate Projections of Tropical and ExTropical Cyclones Over the Southwest Pacific, Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres (2025). DOI: 10.1029/2025JD043833 Journal information: Journal of Geophysical Research - Atmospheres
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Different views of the material studied. Credit: Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.revpalbo.2025.105401

Brazilian paleobotany has just solved an enigma: the redefinition of a fossil plant described decades ago in southern Brazil and the creation of a new genus, Franscinella, to accommodate the species now called Franscinella riograndensis. The study is part of the master's thesis by Julia Siqueira Carniere, currently a doctoral student in the Graduate Program in Environment and Development at University of Vale do TaquariUnivates (PPGAD).

The article, recently published in the Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, reinterprets the type material previously classified as Lycopodites riograndensis and establishes the first record of lycopodites with in situ spores in the Permian strata of the Parana Basin.

The discovery reclassifies its original taxonomy and presents a possible resolution to a scientific challenge that had persisted for more than 50 yearsfinding in situ plant spores preserved in Upper Paleozoic clastic rocks (between 298.9 million years and 252.17 million years) in Brazil.

The feat was made possible thanks to the way the fossil material was preserved, a set of cutting-edge methodologies combining advanced microscopy techniques, and an interdisciplinary collaboration between leading institutions in Brazil.

A new look at a classic fossil

The species Lycopodites riograndensis was originally described on the basis of general macro-morphological characteristics observed in the fossil material. These analyses, made decades ago, considered the shape and arrangement of the stems, but did not have access to more detailed internal information, especially about the anatomy and spores.

With advances in microscopic preparation and analysis techniques, the team led by the University of Vale do TaquariUnivates, through the Graduate Program in Environment and Development (PPGAD), decided to revisit the standard material, which was available for study in the Univates Paleontological Collection. The aim was to investigate whether, using more refined methodologies, it would be possible to obtain unpublished anatomical and palynological data.

The work used scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vinyl polysiloxane silicone molding (VPS) and transmitted light microscopy, resources that allow surfaces and internal structures to be visualized with great magnification and detail.

This approach revealed key elements that justified the taxonomic redefinition, including: isotomic branching in the stems, a typical feature of some fossil lycopsids; tracheids of the vascular cylinder with preserved structure, important for identifying extinct plant groups; and trilete spores with verrucate sculpture preserved in situ, i.e. still within the reproductive structures of the plant.

Obtaining the spores in situ was a decisiveand complexstep. The solution came with the use of the infrastructure of the itt Oceaneon Technological Institute at the University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos (Unisinos), which specializes in the recovery of microfossils, such as pollen grains, spores and marine organisms like radiolarians and ostracodes. The itt Oceaneon team applied a specific protocol for recovering spores in situ, which proved to be efficient for this type of material.

From micro to macro: Connecting fossil records

The spores found in Franscinella riograndensis show morphology compatible with the palynological genus Converrucosisporites, common in Permian deposits in the Parana Basin. This correspondence is relevant because it directly links the macrofossil record (visible parts of the plant) to the microfossil record (spores and pollen grains), broadening our understanding of past vegetation and ecosystems.

In practice, this means that researchers can now make more complete interpretations of Permian plant communities, integrating information from different lines of evidence. In addition, this correlation contributes to biostratigraphy studies, which use fossils to date and correlate rock layers.

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Why is this discovery important?

The redefinition of Franscinella riograndensis shows how revisiting known fossils with new tools can generate groundbreaking discoveries. Many fossil groups, such as lycopodids, have historically been classified under broad, generic genera; in this case, Lycopodites. This type of umbrella classification was a practical solution in the absence of more detailed information, but tends to be revised when new data becomes available.

The work also highlights the importance of national technological infrastructures and collaborative work between researchers and institutions.

From a paleobotanical point of view, the recording of lycopsids with spores in situ in the Parana Basin opens up new perspectives for reconstructing the flora of the Permian and for understanding the evolution of vascular plants. From a global scientific perspective, this study contributes to the understanding of the diversity and distribution of herbaceous lycopsids during the Permian in Gondwana, being only the fifth known record, which makes this type of occurrence rare.

In addition, it allows comparisons with similar records in other regions of the world, offering new data on the evolution and ecology of these plant groups in the Paleozoic.

More information: Julia Siqueira Carniere et al, Franscinella riograndensis (Salvi et al.) gen. nov. et comb. nov.: The first record of a lycopsid with in situ spores for the Permian strata of the Parana Basin, Brazil, Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.revpalbo.2025.105401

Provided by Universidade do Vale do Taquari
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Supernova SN 2018gv before and after. Credit: NASA

For thousands of years, humanity viewed the skies as unchanging, except for a few "wandering stars" (that we now know are planets). As we improved our ability to perceive the cosmos with light-gathering telescopes and electronic detectors, we realized that the universe is full of things that change in brightness, whether it be an exploding star or a matter-gulping black hole.

NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is poised to deliver an avalanche of such transients, including thousands of "standard candle" supernovae that allow us to measure the expansion history of the universe.

NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will be a discovery machine, thanks to its wide field of view and resulting torrent of data. Scheduled to launch no later than May 2027, with the team working toward launch as early as fall 2026, its near-infrared Wide Field Instrument will capture an area 200 times larger than the Hubble Space Telescope's infrared camera, and with the same image sharpness and sensitivity.

Roman will devote about 75% of its science observing time over its five-year primary mission to conducting three core community surveys that were defined collaboratively by the scientific community. One of those surveys will scour the skies for things that pop, flash, and otherwise change, like exploding stars and colliding neutron stars.

Called the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey, this program will peer outside of the plane of our Milky Way galaxy (i.e., high galactic latitudes) to study objects that change over time. The survey's main goal is to detect tens of thousands of a particular type of exploding star known as type Ia supernovae. These supernovae can be used to study how the universe has expanded over time.

"Roman is designed to find tens of thousands of type Ia supernovae out to greater distances than ever before," said Masao Sako of the University of Pennsylvania, who served as co-chair of the committee that defined the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey. "Using them, we can measure the expansion history of the universe, which depends on the amount of dark matter and dark energy. Ultimately, we hope to understand more about the nature of dark energy."

Probing dark energy

Type Ia supernovae are useful as cosmological probes because astronomers know their intrinsic luminosity, or how bright they inherently are, at their peak. By comparing this with their observed brightness, scientists can determine how far away they are. Roman will also be able to measure how quickly they appear to be moving away from us. By tracking how fast they're receding at different distances, scientists will trace cosmic expansion over time.

Only Roman will be able to find the faintest and most distant supernovae that illuminate early cosmic epochs. It will complement ground-based telescopes like the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile, which are limited by absorption from Earth's atmosphere, among other effects. Rubin's greatest strength will be in finding supernovae that happened within the past 5 billion years.

Roman will expand that collection to much earlier times in the universe's history, about 3 billion years after the Big Bang, or as much as 11 billion years in the past. This would more than double the measured timeline of the universe's expansion history.

Recently, the Dark Energy Survey found hints that dark energy may be weakening over time, rather than being a constant force of expansion. Roman's investigations will be critical for testing this possibility.

This sonification that uses simulated data from NASAs OpenUniverse project shows the variety of explosive events that will be detected by NASAs Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope and its High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey. Different sounds represent different types of events, as shown in the key at right. A single kilonova seen about 12 seconds into the video is represented with a cannon shot. The sonification sweeps backward in time to greater distances from Earth, and the pitch of the instrument gets lower as you move outward. (Cosmological redshift has been converted to a light travel time expressed in billions of years.) Credit: Martha Irene Saladino (STScI), Christopher Britt (STScI) / Frank Summers (STScI) / NASA, STScI, Leah Hustak (STScI)

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Seeking exotic phenomena

To detect transient objects whose brightness changes over time, Roman must revisit the same fields at regular intervals. The High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey will devote a total of 180 days of observing time to these observations spread over a five-year period. Most will occur over a span of two years in the middle of the mission, revisiting the same fields once every five days, with an additional 15 days of observations early in the mission to establish a baseline.

"To find things that change, we use a technique called image subtraction," Sako said. "You take an image, and you subtract out an image of the same piece of sky that was taken much earlieras early as possible in the mission. So you remove everything that's static, and you're left with things that are new."

The survey will also include an extended component that will revisit some of the observing fields approximately every 120 days to look for objects that change over long timescales. This will help to detect the most distant transients that existed as long ago as one billion years after the big bang. Those objects vary more slowly due to time dilation caused by the universe's expansion.

"You really benefit from taking observations over the entire five-year duration of the mission," said Brad Cenko of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, the other co-chair of the survey committee. "It allows you to capture these very rare, very distant events that are really hard to get at any other way but that tell us a lot about the conditions in the early universe."

This extended component will collect data on some of the most energetic and longest-lasting transients, such as tidal disruption eventswhen a supermassive black hole shreds a staror predicted but as-yet unseen events known as pair-instability supernovae, where a massive star explodes without leaving behind a neutron star or black hole.

Survey details

The High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey will be split into two imaging "tiers"a wide tier that covers more area and a deep tier that will focus on a smaller area for a longer time to detect fainter objects. The wide tier, totaling a bit more than 18 square degrees, will target objects within the past 7 billion years, or half the universe's history. The deep tier, covering an area of 6.5 square degrees, will reach fainter objects that existed as much as 10 billion years ago.

The observations will take place in two areas, one in the northern sky and one in the southern sky. There will also be a spectroscopic component to this survey, which will be limited to the southern sky.

"We have a partnership with the ground-based Subaru Observatory, which will do spectroscopic follow-up of the northern sky, while Roman will do spectroscopy in the southern sky. With spectroscopy, we can confidently tell what type of supernovae we're seeing," said Cenko.

Together with Roman's other two core community surveys, the High-Latitude Wide-Area Survey and the Galactic Bulge Time-Domain Survey, the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey will help map the universe with a clarity and to a depth never achieved before.

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Graphical abstract. Credit: Chemosphere (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144499

With demand for critical minerals on the rise, mining activity in Northern Canada is only going to increase. That will require new solutions for treating water that becomes contaminated from miningeither from the chemicals used to extract minerals or elements that occur naturally underground.

Given the expense associated with building and staffing regular water treatment plants in the North, researchers are studying other approaches that are less resource-intensive and that will work in colder temperatures.

A research team involving scientists from the Yukon University Research Center and the Universite de Moncton tested a method for cleaning underground water (groundwater) that uses a "filter"called a permeable reactive barrier (PRB)made of natural materials to trap and remove harmful chemicals. Studies have shown this method works in warmer climates, but there's little research on its effectiveness in arctic and subarctic climates.

The research is published in the journal Chemosphere.

"Passive and semi-passive water treatment systems are based on what occurs in nature," says lead researcher Dr. Morgane Desmau, an environmental scientist and assistant professor at the Universite de Moncton. One of the advantages of passive and semi-passive systems, says Desmau, is thatgenerally speakingthey are less resource intensive than a bricks-and-mortar water treatment plant.

"Wetlands are a good example (of a passive treatment system). It takes some time to get it set up, but then it just runs on its own. The idea is to be more sustainable, more cost efficient, and as effective."

The researchers built a mini water treatment system in their lab, running water through a column containing a mix of gravel, iron particles, and wood chips for nine months. They added nitrate, arsenic and uranium to the water, to match contaminants commonly found in ground water as a result of miningespecially gold miningin the North. And they kept their entire system at 5 degrees Celsius to match the temperature of groundwater in the Yukon.

Using the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan, they examined their filter material, to see how well it trappedand retainedthe contaminants. They discovered that this method does indeed work in cold climates, but that it's difficult to remove all of the chemicals at the same time.

Credit: Canadian Light Source

Credit: Canadian Light Source

The researchers found the PRB did a good job trapping the arsenic and uranium, but was less effective in removing the nitrate, because of the colder temperature. When they added sodium acetate to the filter, it caused good bacteria to grow and clean the nitrate from the water. But that change resulted in the barrier not trapping as much uranium.

Desmau says future designs may need to have barriers with several different parts in order to trap all of the different contaminants in water. "It's a good first step in creating more semi-passive water treatment systems that work well specifically in the North."

The team's research has real-world applicability. "The design of the experiment was based on information provided by The Yukon Mining Research Consortium (which comprised all the active mine in the Yukon)," says Desmau. "They told us, 'This is the kind of water we have, and these contaminants can be present. Can you try this and see if it's going to work to remove them.'"

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The research was hosted by the Northern Mine Remediation Program at the Yukon University Research Center. "This research was done in the North, by researchers based in the North, to address an issue that's present in the North," says Desmau.

She's hopeful the group's findings will be used at future mine sites. "We need these semi passive or passive water treatment systems in the north, not only in Canada but any country where there is a subarctic or arctic climate might use this research."

"What I found so interesting about what we did and what is so exciting about this research is that even though it (the permeable reactive barrier they tested) was not working perfectly, even though it's not perfect, we were able to identify why it's not working and what we can maybe do to improve and better design those kinds of systems in the future," says Desmau.

More information: Morgane Desmau et al, Multi-contaminant removal from synthetic mine-impacted water by permeable reactive barriers under cold conditions, Chemosphere (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144499 Journal information: Chemosphere
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

In 2013, a wave of protests began in Turkey in opposition to the planned demolition of Gezi Park in Istanbul. The protests soon evolved into mass anti-government demonstrations, and a landmark moment in the country's history of resistance.

At the time, the country's prime minister publicly insulted demonstrators, calling them capulcua derogatory Turkish word meaning "looters" or "vandals." Instead of retreating in shame, protesters quickly embraced the label. They wore it proudly on t-shirts, painted it on banners and sang it in chants. "Every day I'm capuling" became a rallying cry, a meme and a slogan for a movement.

People took a slur meant to discredit them and turned it into a source of unity, defiance and pride. In social psychology, this practice is known as reappropriation, and it can transform how people see themselves and one another. Our research shows that when members of marginalized groups reclaim stigmatizing labels, it not only fosters self-worth but can also spark political activism.

In other words, saying "yes, I'm a capulcu"or "yes, I'm fat" or "yes, I'm queer"isn't just resistance, it can be the start of a political identity.

In our study, published in Political Psychology, we explored how reappropriation works as a psychological and political process. We wanted to know: how does taking ownership of a stigmatized identity shift the way people see themselves and their groups? And how does that influence their willingness to take political action?

To answer this, we looked at two powerful case studies: the 2013 Gezi Park protests in Turkey, where protesters embraced the term capulcu, and the fat liberation movement, where activists have worked to reclaim the word fat as a neutral descriptor.

In both cases, the labels have long been used to stigmatize, devalue or silence. But reappropriating these words allowed people to reframe their identities, from being seen as a "problem" to becoming part of a proud and politicized group.

The psychology behind reappropriation

We combined in-depth interviews and survey research to understand what drives people to reclaim a stigmatizing label, and how this shapes their identity. We interviewed 20 activists in Turkey who participated in the Gezi Park protests, and surveyed 479 fat liberation activists in North America.

Our findings suggest that reappropriation helps reduce the personal sting of the insult. When someone proudly adopts a term meant to shame them, they feel it disarms the insult. It flips the power dynamic: what was meant to hurt now becomes a badge of pride. If you wear the word like armor, it can't be used to hurt you.

It also builds a sense of collective identity. When people publicly embrace a reclaimed label, they signal solidarity with others who share that identity and opposition to the forces that marginalize them. This shift helps move people from private acceptance to public action.

Crucially, we found that this process isn't about denying the pain of marginalizationit's about transforming that pain into purpose. Participants in both movements reported that reclaiming stigmatized labels made them more likely to engage in activismwhether that meant attending protests, speaking out on social media, or supporting campaigns for political change.

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Why this matters

Today, reappropriation is happening all around us. We've seen it in the embrace of terms like "queer", "crip", "fat" and "autistic"all once used pejoratively, now often reclaimed as proud markers of identity. But despite its visibility, the process remains misunderstood.

Critics sometimes dismiss reappropriation as mere provocation or political correctness. But our research shows it is a deeply meaningful psychological strategyone that enables people to reclaim power, resist stigma and build collective strength.

And it's not just about words. Reappropriation can shape the course of social movements. In the case of Gezi, the reclamation of capulcu helped unify a diverse and fractured protest movement.

In the case of fat liberation, reclaiming "fat" has challenged not only individual shame but the broader societal norms that stigmatize larger bodies. Although it is difficult to claim that fatphobia is declining overall, fat people continue to find spaces and ways to feel empowered, challenging prejudices and, in some social circles, dismantling societal norms about larger bodies.

Of course, not everyone in a marginalized group will agree on whether a label should be reclaimed. For some, the term may carry too much pain. Others may worry that embracing the label reinforces stereotypes. But that tension is part of what makes reappropriation so powerful and so political. It forces a public reckoning with language, power and identity.

In the end, our research offers a simple but profound insight: reclaiming a slur can change more than just language. It can change how people see themselves, how they relate to others, and how they take part in changing the world.

More information: Mete Sefa Uysal et al, Wear it like armor and it can never be used to hurt you: Reappropriation, identity change, and collective action, Political Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1111/pops.13022

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Fusarium f.sp. cubence Tropical Race 4 (FoC TR4) on a banana plant. Credit: CABI

A team of researchers led by CABI have identified 9,071 pest species previously unreported in Uganda which pose potential concern in terms of possible threats to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers as well as food security in the country.

The study, published in Frontiers in Agronomy, used the CABI Horizon Scanning Tool to gather the data from which a subset of 1,517 pest speciessuch as Fusarium f.sp. cubence Tropical Race 4 (FoC TR4) on bananafor rapid risk assessment.

This was based on the likelihood of entry and establishment, the magnitude of socio-economic and environmental impact, as well as potential pathways of introduction of pest species that also include tomato leafminer (Pthorimaea absoluta), papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus), and the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda).

Of the pest species highlighted, 357 were arthropods, 130 were bacteria, 74 were chromista, 417 were fungi, 19 were mollusks, 124 were nematodes, nine were protists, and 387 were viruses and viroids, of which 360 of the 1,517 were reported as invasive.

Recommended actions to help manage the risks posed by these pest species include targeted surveillance, regulation supported by pest risk analysis, contingency planning, publicity, management by the industry, and research.

Dr. Joseph Mulema, lead author of the study and Senior Scientist, Research at CABI, said, "The horizon scanning study has identified high-risk invasive pests that could threaten Uganda's agriculture, biodiversity, forestry, and livelihoods.

"This information is vital for risk monitoring and management and can be utilized by countries in the East African Region."

The agricultural sector is vital to the economic development of many countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), contributing an average of 25% to the Gross Domestic Product and supporting over 80% of rural populations.

In Uganda, this sector, which is overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), accounts for approximately 24% of GDP, 35% of export earnings, and employs about 68% of the labor force.

However, pest species can negatively impact both staple and cash crops as well as the sensitive ecosystems, both of which are also affected by extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.

Dr. Paul Mwambu, Commissioner of the Department of Crop Inspection and Certification (DCIC) in Uganda, and also the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) head said, "Having now gained a comprehensive understanding of the potential impact that pest species may have on Uganda's agricultural industry and environment, we are positioned to significantly enhance our capacity to manage these pests sustainably across the entire food value chain, and promote safe trade.

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"This improved capacity will not only safeguard the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also preserve our environment, including vital soil health as well as native flora and fauna, but also provides evidence-based decision making in trade facilitation."

He added that the Agricultural Sector Strategic Plan (ASSP) formulated by MAAIF has already prioritized key commoditiesincluding banana, cassava, cocoa, coffee, common bean, cotton, maize, palm oil, potatoes, rice, tea, oil seeds, fruits and vegetables, as well as dairy, fish, and livestock for meat production.

Dr. Mwambu said the sector currently faces critical challenges such as land degradation caused largely by human activities, declining soil fertility due to unsustainable farming practices, and the persistent threat posed by pest infestations.

"Confronting these challenges requires coordinated, evidence-based actions to strengthen our pest surveillance, management, and prevention strategies, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of Uganda's agricultural sector for future generations," he said.

Professor Herbert Talwana, from Makerere University, Uganda, and a co-author of the research, said, "Three pathways through which the pests could be introduced were assessed. These included containment, stowaway, and unaided.

"The containment pathway, relevant to seed-borne and seed-transmitted pests, was considered more plausible for species within and beyond Africa. However, the stowaway pathway, applicable to vector-and soil-borne pests, was deemed more plausible for species reported in a neighboring country."

Dr. Idd Ramathani, Senior Research Officer at Uganda's National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), emphasized that the study offers critical insights for safeguarding the country against new pest threats. He said the findings will help prevent pest introductions, strengthen contingency planning, and enable early detectionkey steps for eradicating new incursions or containing their spread.

"Uganda can only achieve this by putting in place a robust risk monitoring, early detection, and rapid response system," Dr. Ramathani stressed. "Developing a national pest risk register will be central to tracking threats and guiding effective risk management."

Further recommendations

Among the recommendations, the researchers suggest the DCIC should devise a strategy for risk communication and a code of conduct for key stakeholders to minimize the introduction of highly damaging pests identified in this study.

The considerable number of pests reported in neighboring countries illustrates an information gap that must be addressed to limit the imposition of phytosanitary measures on pests that could be present in Uganda.

Dr. Mulema said, "The suggested actions aim to prevent the introduction, establishment, and spread of quarantine pests or to generate, through research, the information necessary to guide phytosanitary decisions."

More information: Joseph Mulema et al, Prioritising non-native pest species to inform plant health biosecurity policy decisions and to safeguard agriculture, forestry, biodiversity, and livelihoods in Uganda, Frontiers in Agronomy (2025). DOI: 10.3389/fagro.2025.1601845

Provided by CABI
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A fisherman on the island of Koh Chang in Thailand prepares a bag of plastic refuse he plans to sell to an environmental NGO.

Kulsum Beghum sorts waste at a landfill in Dhaka. Her blood contains 650 microplastic particles per milliliter, according to an analysis funded by a waste pickers' union.

"Plastic is not good for me," she told AFP through a translator during an interview in Geneva, where she came to bear witness on the sidelines of 184-nation talks to forge the world's first global plastic pollution treaty.

"It started 30 years ago" in the Bangladeshi capital, the 55-year-old said, supported by her union.

At first, "plastic was for cooking oil and soft drinks", she recalled. Then came shopping bags, which replaced traditional jute bags. "We were attracted to plastic, it was so beautiful!"

Today, in one of the most economically fragile countries on the planet, plastic is everywhere: lining the streets, strewn across beaches, clogging the drains.

Alamgir Hossain, a member of an association affiliated with the International Alliance of Waste Pickers, showed photos on her phone.

Beghum wants non-recyclable plastics banned, pointing out that she cannot resell them and they have no market value.

"No one collects them," she said.

'Disaster for the environment'

Indumathi from Bangalore in southern India, who did not give her full name, concurs: 60% of the plastic waste that arrives at the sorting center she set up is non-recyclable, she told AFP.

This includes crisp packets made of a mixture of aluminum and plastic, and other products using "multi-layer" plastic. "No one picks them up from the streets and there are a lot of them," she said.

Scientists attending the treaty negotiations at the United Nations in Geneva back her up.

"Multi-layer plastic bags are a disaster for the environment," said Stephanie Reynaud, a polymer chemistry researcher at France's National Center for Scientific Research.

People in Dacca, Bangladesh recovering discarded plastic bags fore resale.

"They cannot be recycled."

Indumathi was also critical of what she described as public policy failures.

After single-use bags were banned in her country in 2014, for example, she saw the arrival of black or transparent polypropylene lunchboxes, which are also single-use.

"We're seeing more and more of them on the streets and in landfills. They've replaced shopping bags," she said.

According to a recent OECD report on plastic in Southeast Asia, "more ambitious public policies could reduce waste by more than 95% by 2050" in the region, where plastic consumption increased ninefold since 1990 to 152 million tonnes in 2022.

Plastics 'colonialism'

Consumer demand is not to blame, argues Seema Prabhu of the Swiss-based NGO Trash Heroes, which works mainly in Southeast Asian countries.

The market has been flooded with single-use plastic replacing traditional items in Asia, such as banana leaf packaging in Thailand and Indonesia, and metal lunch boxes in India.

"It's a new colonialism that is eroding traditional cultures," she told AFP. According to her, more jobs could be created "in a reuse economy than in a single-use economy".

Single-dose "sachets" of shampoo, laundry detergent or sauces are a scourge, said Yuyun Ismawati Drwiega, an Indonesian who co-chairs the International Pollutants Elimination Network NGO.

"They are the smallest plastic items with which the industry has poisoned useasy to carry, easy to obtain; every kiosk sells them," she told AFP.

In Indonesia, collection and sorting centers specializing in sachets have failed to stem the tide, mostly shutting down not long after opening.

In Bali, where Ismawati Drwiega lives, she organizes guided tours that she has nicknamed "Beauty and the Beast".

The beauty is the beaches and luxury hotels; the beast is the back streets, the tofu factories that use plastic briquettes as fuel, and the rubbish dumps.

 2025 AFP
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333 seconds-exposure containing 19 or more streaks due to Starlink satellites. Credit: CTIO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/DECam DELVE Survey

For decades, astronomers have searched for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence using radio telescopes and optical instruments, scanning the skies for artificial signals. Now, researchers are taking a different approach, this time looking much closer to home for alien artifacts that might already be in our solar system.

A new study published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society describes an innovative method for detecting potential extraterrestrial probes near Earth. Their innovative approach: to use Earth's shadow as a natural filter to eliminate interference from human-made satellites and space debris.

Modern skies are cluttered with thousands of satellites and millions of pieces of reflective debris, making it extremely difficult to spot anything unusual. This "contamination" poses a major challenge for anyone trying to identify non-human objects in space. Lead researcher Beatriz Villarroel from Stockholm University and her international team needed a way to filter out this noise.

This is why they turned to Earth's shadow. Every night, Earth casts a cone-shaped shadow into space where direct sunlight cannot reflect off satellites or debris. This creates an ideal "clean" search zone. The shadow's base spans roughly 89 degrees for objects at geosynchronous orbit, about 35,700 kilometers above Earth.

Human satellites typically don't carry optical light sources, with rare exceptions like communication lasers or spacecraft thrusters. So any bright flashes or streaks detected within Earth's shadow could potentially indicate something more exotic.

The researchers analyzed images from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), a telescope in California that systematically surveys the sky for changing objects. They examined more than 200,000 images, specifically focusing on those captured within Earth's shadow.

Their automated search system, called NEOrion, detected thousands of candidates, including mysterious streaking objects and point source flashes. Most turned out to be meteors, aircraft, or known asteroids. However, one intriguing case emerged, an uncatalogued object moving much faster than typical asteroids and not found in any existing space object databases. Sadly however, the team was unable to confirm what it was, so it still remains a mystery.

The study also explores other innovative approaches, including examining pre-1957 astronomical photographs and analyzing the color spectra of suspicious objects to identify materials that have been weathered by long exposure to space.

While this proof-of-concept study didn't definitively identify any alien technology, it demonstrates that systematic searches for extraterrestrial artifacts are now feasible using existing telescopes and new analysis techniques.

The researchers are developing the ExoProbe project, a network of telescopes designed specifically for this type of search, which will use multiple simultaneous observations to determine exact distances to mysterious objects.

More information: Beatriz Villarroel et al, A Cost-Effective Search for Extraterrestrial Probes in the Solar System, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2025). DOI: 10.1093/mnras/staf1158 Journal information: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
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Janjucetus dullardi calf and mother. Artwork by Ruairidh Duncan. Credit: Ruairidh Duncan / Museums Victoria

With large eyes, razor-sharp teeth and a compact body built for hunting, Janjucetus dullardi is nothing like the gentle giants known today, but this newly discovered ancient whale is one of their earliest cousins.

Scientists at Museums Victoria's Research Institute have described a new species of ancient whale from a 26-million-year-old fossil found near Jan Juc, on Wadawurrung Country, along Victoria's Surf Coast.

The discovery offers remarkable insight into the early evolution of baleen whalesthe filter-feeding giants that now cruise our oceans.

Janjucetus dullardi was no ocean giantit was a fast, sharp-toothed predator about the size of a dolphin. With a short snout, large forward-facing eyes and slicing teeth, it would have been a compact, yet fearsome sight in the warm, shallow seas of ancient Victoria.

The fossil, a partial skull with ear bones and teeth, was discovered in June 2019 by local resident Ross Dullard while walking along the beach. Recognizing its scientific significance, Dullard generously donated it to Museums Victoria, where researchers carefully prepared and studied the fossil. In recognition of his contribution, the new species has been named in his honor.

"This kind of public discovery and its reporting to the museum is vital," said Dr. Erich Fitzgerald, senior curator of vertebrate paleontology at Museums Victoria Research Institute and senior author of the study. "Ross' discovery has unlocked an entire chapter of whale evolution we've never seen before. It's a reminder that world-changing fossils can be found in your own backyard."

The research, published in Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, identifies Janjucetus dullardi as a juvenile, just over two meters long. Despite its small size, it belonged to a group known as mammalodontids, early whales that lived only during the Oligocene Epoch, around 30 to 23 million years ago.

"It's essentially a little whale with big eyes and a mouth full of sharp, slicing teeth," said Ruairidh Duncan, Ph.D. student at the Museums Victoria Research Institute and Monash University, and lead author of the study. "Imagine the shark-like version of a baleen whalesmall and deceptively cute, but definitely not harmless."

This is the third known mammalodontid species from Victoria, and only the fourth found worldwide. It's also the first to preserve both the teeth and inner ear structures in such detail, which are key features for understanding how early whales fed, heard, moved and behaved in the water.

Advanced microCT scanning revealed delicate structures inside the ear bones, including the cochlea, helping scientists explore how Janjucetus dullardi may have sensed its environment, an ability crucial for hunting and navigating the oceans.

"This fossil opens a window into how ancient whales grew and changed, and how evolution shaped their bodies as they adapted to life in the sea," said Fitzgerald.

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The fossil was recovered from the fossil-rich Jan Juc Formation, which dates to a time of global warmth and rising seas. This coastal stretch of Victoria is becoming internationally recognized as a hotspot for early whale evolution.

Understanding how ancient whales adapted to warmer oceans millions of years ago gives scientists valuable clues about how today's marine life might respond to climate change.

The partial skull and teeth of Janjucetus dullardi. Photographer: Tom Breakwell. Credit: Tom Breakwell / Museums Victoria

"This region was once a cradle for some of the most unusual whales in history, and we're only just beginning to uncover their stories," said Fitzgerald.

This discovery marks a major milestone in the understanding of early whale evolution and highlights the critical importance of southeast Australia in that story.

"We're entering a new phase of discovery," said Fitzgerald. "This region is rewriting the story of how whales came to rule the oceans, with some surprising plot twists."

The team expects more fossil discoveries from Victoria's coastline in the coming years and is continuing to study newly uncovered fossils, as well as long-unstudied specimens from the region in the Museums Victoria State Collection.

When considering the impact of this remarkable discovery, Lynley Crosswell, CEO and Director of Museums Victoria said, "The findings demonstrate the power of our collections to unlock stories that change the way we understand life on Earth.

"Thanks to the generosity of the public and the expertise of our scientists, Museums Victoria Research Institute is making globally significant contributions to evolutionary research. Discoveries like Janjucetus dullardi remind us that our collections are not just about the pastthey're shaping the future of science."

More information: Ruairidh Duncan et al, An immature toothed mysticete from the Oligocene of Australia and insights into mammalodontid (Cetacea: Mysticeti) morphology, systematics and ontogeny, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society (2025). DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaf090 Journal information: Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Florida anglers say sharks are snatching their catches at unprecedented rates, calling it an "overwhelming problem" and blaming a boom in Gulf shark numbers.

But scientific research paints a more complicated picture.

Scientists who study sharks acknowledge that depredationthe act of fish being eaten by an underwater predator while on a fisherman's lineis a growing concern in some areas, especially Florida. They cite several potential drivers of increased shark-human conflict, including climate change-related shifts in shark behavior and rebounding populations of some species.

But they note that changes in human behaviorsuch as more people fishing and heightened awareness of shark encounters through social mediamay also play a role.

Now, researchers are working to learn when and why these encounters happen and how to prevent them.

Matt Ajemian, an associate research professor studying the issue at Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, cautions against calling shark depredation a crisis, noting that historical accounts show similar encounters have long occurred.

"I don't call it a problem," he said. "I try to call it a challenge."

Researchers explore increased reports of shark encounters

Ajemian and research coordinator Mike McCallister are leading a project launched in 2021 to study when and where depredation happens and what might reduce it. Their team has turned to anglers for help, gathering information through surveys, video footage, genetic testing and social media reports to identify patterns.

In their surveys, about 43% of Florida anglers said sharks had stolen their catch, with rates ranging from 10% to 60% depending on the region, season and species, researchers said. When it happened, sharks took nearly a third to almost half of the day's haul.

The data came from quarterly surveys of 4,000 randomly selected saltwater fishing license holders over a year, with about 2,200 responding. Because participation was voluntary and limited to license holders, researchers said, the results don't represent all Florida anglers.

They also tracked posts in a Facebook group with more than 6,500 members, logging real-time reports from offshore anglers across the state.

Researchers said survey responses and online reports point to clear patterns in when and where depredation occurs. It was most common in the spring and summer, with hotspots in Southeast Florida, the Keys and the Panhandle. Rates spiked during busy fishing periods such as red snapper and grouper season openings.

'Not always sharks that are the problem'

Snapper and grouper were the most frequently lost catches, followed by king mackerel, cobia, tuna and sailfish, according to the study. McCallister said the data also showed longer fights gave sharks more time to strike, and anglers targeting deep-water or migratory species were more likely to be affected than those fishing inshore.

Bull sharks and sandbar sharks were the main culprits, based on angler accounts and genetic swabs from bitten fish, but they weren't the only ones.

"The videos have shown us that it's not always sharks that are the problem," said Mike McCallister, FAU research coordinator.

McCallister said the goliath grouper, a massive fish that can weigh up to 800 pounds, is another species that can target an angler's catch underwater.

"Most of these depredations occur below the water line, where people can't see them," said McCallister.

Are shark numbers increasing?

Many anglers blame a growing shark population for increasing depredation. Researchers say that while some shark populations appear to be rebounding after past declines, their numbers likely remain below historical levels.

"My inkling is that sharks are returning on an increasing trajectory thanks to solid management and a lot of federal effort," Ajemian said.

He and McCallister note that in the 1960s and 1970s, U.S. agencies even encouraged commercial shark fishing to diversify the seafood supply. But when shark populations declined sharply in the 1980s and early 1990s, it prompted the launch of national management plans in 1993.

Recently, NOAA Fisheries credited these management efforts with increases in several shark species in the Atlantic, including blacktip, sandbar, tiger and white sharks.

Mahmood Shivji, director of the Guy Harvey Research Institute at Nova Southeastern University, also cites research that juvenile bull shark numbers are rising in Gulf estuaries.

However, scientists say that it's important to put the numbers in context.

Mike Heithaus, a marine ecologist at Florida International University, says that while some populations are recovering, most remain below historical levels.

For younger anglers, today's encounters may feel unprecedented, but researchers say they could be closer to historical norms.

"That shifting baseline concept is real," McCallister said.

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Is climate change affecting shark behavior?

Scientists say broader environmental changes may also be driving shark encounters.

Overfishing and warming waters could be affecting where sharks go and what they eat, Shivji said, and climate change is altering how deep they dive and how they reproduce.

"Environmental conditions also impact the distribution of natural prey species that sharks eat, and as these prey species move to different locations, the sharks follow their food," Shivji said.

Sharks themselves are also vulnerable. Heithaus says that climate change could further disrupt food webs, create low-oxygen zones and push predators and prey into new areas.

"Climate change is also going to have big effects on shark prey and their competitors, which is likely to disrupt predator-prey interactions," Heithaus said.

Researchers say more studies are needed to pinpoint the causes of angler-shark encounters and whether depredation is actually increasing or simply being reported more often, including through social media. To help answer that question, McCallister is examining long-term recreational fishing records for his doctoral research.

Anglers adjust to shark conflicts

In the meantime, McCallister says many frustrated anglers are already adjusting tactics, switching gear, moving spots or cutting trips short to account for shark behavior.

"Most anglers are trying to reduce depredation on their own," McCallister said.

Researchers are also testing ways to keep sharks at bay, including deterrent devices that use magnets to disrupt their electrical senses. So far, they've shown mixed results.

One device, called the Zeppelin, showed early promise but only works for bottom fishing, as it can cling to metal parts of a boat or tackle, fouling lines, researchers said. It costs around $80. Other deterrents being tested, such as devices that emit electric pulses, can cost more than $1,000. Some anglers told Ajemian and McCallister the price is too high, especially since the device can be lost during use.

Shark concerns spark legislation

The search for answers is also playing out at the federal level. The SHARKED Act passed the House in January. If it gets signed into law, it would create a federal task force to study shark depredation and recommend solutions.

Until then, scientists say continued research will be key to helping anglers, policymakers and the public better understand the challenge and the best ways to address it.

While recognizing that shark activity can frustrate anglers, scientists also emphasize that the predators play a vital role in the ecosystemone that is important to protect as their populations continue to decline globally.

"We are still learning a lot about how important they can be, but they can keep populations of prey in check and help protect the base of food webs, like seagrasses, by keeping them from being overgrazed," Heithaus said.

"The big picture is that many shark species have been severely overfished worldwide, and many species, especially the ones that live in the open ocean and on reefs, have declined by around 50 to 90%," Shivji said.

"Their now-rapid population declines are very concerning given the essential roles that sharks play in keeping our oceans in balance and healthy."

Shivji added, "making it very important to appreciate these amazing animals, their essential place and role in ocean ecosystems, and helping to prevent many species from going extinct."

2025 Miami Herald. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Tourists explore the 'Dome of the Cathedral', the largest chamber in Grutas Tzabnah (Yucatan, Mexico), and the origin of Tzab06-1. The artificial well 'La Noria' now illuminates the cave. Credit: Mark Brenner

A drought lasting 13 years and several others that each lasted over three years may have contributed to the collapse of the Classic Maya civilization, chemical fingerprints from a stalagmite in a Mexican cave have revealed.

A detailed analysis of oxygen isotopes in the stalagmite allowed a team of researchers, led by the University of Cambridge, to determine rainfall levels for individual wet and dry seasons between 871 and 1021 CE, which overlaps with the Terminal Classic period of Maya civilization. The results are reported in the journal Science Advances.

This is the first time it has been possible to isolate rainfall conditions for individual wet and dry seasons during the Terminal Classic, the time of societal decline historically referred to as the Maya collapse.

During the Terminal Classic, limestone Maya cities in the south were abandoned and dynasties were ended, as one of the ancient world's great civilizations shifted north and lost much of its political and economic power.

The data contained within the stalagmite, from a cave in the Yucatan, showed that there were eight wet season droughts that lasted for at least three years during this period, with the longest drought lasting for 13 consecutive years.

This climate data aligns with existing historical and archaeological evidence: construction of monuments and political activity at several major northern Maya sites, including the famous city of Chichen Itza, stopped at different times during this period of climate stress.

Daniel H. James, David Hodell, Ola Kwiecien, and Sebastian Breitenbach (L-R) at the Maya site of Labna in the Puuc region (Yucatan, Mexico), which was most likely abandoned during the Terminal Classic. Credit: Mark Brenner

The accurately and precisely dated droughts provide a new framework for fine-grained analysis of the timing and dynamics of human-climate interactions in the region.

"This period in Maya history has been a cause of fascination for centuries," said lead author Dr. Daniel H. James, who conducted the research while a Ph.D. student at Cambridge's Department of Earth Sciences.

"There have been multiple theories as to what caused the collapse, such as changing trade routes, war or severe drought, based on the archaeological evidence the Maya left behind. But in the past few decades, we've started to learn quite a lot about what happened to the Maya and why, by combining archaeological data with quantifiable climate evidence."

Starting in the 1990s, researchers began to piece together climate records with those left by the Maya, such as the dates they recorded on key monuments, to show that a series of droughts during the Terminal Classic was a likely contributor to the massive socio-political upheaval in Maya society.

Now, James and his co-authors from the UK, US and Mexico have used the chemical fingerprints contained in stalagmites from a cave in the northern Yucatan to bring those droughts into much sharper focus.

Stalagmites form when water drips from the ceiling of a cave, and the minerals contained in the water grow into large deposits on the cave floor. By dating and analyzing the layers of oxygen isotopes within the stalagmite, the researchers extracted highly detailed information about the climate in the Terminal Classic period.

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Earlier research has measured the oxygen isotopes contained in lake sediment to determine the severity of drought, but lake sediment does not contain enough detail to pinpoint climate conditions in any given year at a particular site.

Daniel H. James installs a drip rate monitor upon a flowstone in Grutas Tzabnah (Yucatan, Mexico) as part of the wider cave monitoring campaign. Credit: Sebastian Breitenbach

"It hasn't been possible to directly compare the history of individual Maya sites with what we previously knew about the climate record," said James, who is now a postdoctoral researcher at University College London (UCL).

"Lake sediment is great when you want to look at the big picture, but stalagmites allow us to access the fine-grained detail that we've been missing."

Earlier research on stalagmites determined annual average rainfall amounts during the Terminal Classic, but the Cambridge-led team have now been able to go further, and isolate information from individual wet and dry seasons, thanks to relatively thick (about 1mm) annual layers in the stalagmite used in this study. The specific oxygen isotopes in each layer are a proxy for wet season drought.

"Knowing the annual average rainfall doesn't tell you as much as knowing what each individual wet season was like," said James. "Being able to isolate the wet season allows us to accurately track the duration of wet season drought, which is what determines if crops succeed or fail."

According to the information contained in the stalagmite, there were eight wet season droughts lasting for at least three years between 871 and 1021 CE. The longest drought of the period lasted for 13 years. Even with the water management techniques that the Maya had, a drought that long would have had major impacts on society.

The climate information contained in the stalagmite lines up with the dates inscribed by the Maya on their monuments. In the periods of prolonged and severe drought, date inscriptions at sites such as Chichen Itza stopped entirely.

Daniel H. James, Ola Kwiecien, and David Hodell (L-R) install a SYP drip water autosampler in Grutas Tzabnah (Yucatan, Mexico) to analyze seasonal changes in drip chemistry. Credit: Sebastian Breitenbach

"This doesn't necessarily mean that the Maya abandoned Chichen Itza during these periods of severe drought, but it's likely that they had more immediate things to worry about than constructing monuments, such as whether the crops they relied on would succeed or not," said James.

The researchers say that stalagmites from this and other caves in the region could be vital in putting the puzzle of the Terminal Classic period together.

"In addition to what stalagmites can tell us about this period in Maya history, they might also be able to tell us about the frequency and severity of tropical storms, for instance," said James.

"As a case study for fine-grained comparisons between climate and historical data, it's exciting being able to apply methods usually associated with the deeper past to relatively recent history."

More information: Daniel James, Classic Maya Response to Multi-Year Seasonal Droughts in Northwest Yucatan, Mexico, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw7661. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adw7661 Journal information: Science Advances
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Authors Dr Meighen-Berger and Professor Bell recently visited the newly excavated DUNE cavern, 1,470 meters below the surface in the Sanford Underground Research Facility. Credit: University of Melbourne

Neutrinosghostly particles that rarely interact with normal matterare the sun's secret messengers. These particles are born deep within the sun, a byproduct of the nuclear fusion process which powers all stars.

Neutrinos escape the sun and stream through Earth in immense quantities. These particles are imprinted with information about the inner workings of the sun.

Our new theoretical paper published in Physical Review Letters shows that the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), currently under construction, will help us unlock the deepest secrets of these solar messengers.

A 'desperate remedy'

Neutrinos are the most mysterious of the known fundamental particles. They were first proposed by Austrian theoretical physicist Wolfgang Pauli in 1930, at a time when the only known subatomic particles were the electron and the proton.

Pauli introduced the neutrino to explain puzzling observations of nuclear beta decay, in which an unstable nucleus emits an electron.

The problem was that less energy was released than expectedappearing to violate the law of conservation of energy.

Pauli's "desperate remedy" to this dilemma was to propose that an additional particle is emitted: the neutrino.

To match the observations, this new particle would need to be very light (less than 1% of the proton's mass) and interact extremely weakly with regular matter.

Pauli penned in his journal: "I have done something very bad today by proposing a particle that cannot be detected; it is something no theorist should ever do."

Yet detect them we did.

It took 26 years before neutrinos were detected directly in 1956 (coming from nuclear reactors), but even by the end of the 1930s it was understood that the sun must produce an immense flux of neutrinos as a byproduct of nuclear fusion.

We have now detected very large numbers of neutrinos from the sun and elsewhere.

And, along the way, the detection of neutrinos has led to four Nobel Prizes (1988, 1995, 2002, and 2015)and counting.

Why does the sun shine?

In 1938, the German-American physicist Hans Bethe correctly suggested the primary source of the sun's power was due to the nuclear fusion of protonsfinally giving an answer to the age-old question: what makes the sun shine?

In the core of the sun, nuclei are forced together under immense pressure, occasionally fusing together and releasing both energy and neutrinos.

The exact details of the sun's fusion processes are highly sensitive to solar properties that we have no ability to measure from Earth, like the temperature of the solar core and the precise abundance of certain elements, like boron.

To confirm our understanding of how the sun shines, physicists needed a way to access the solar interior.

Solar neutrinos originate deep inside the sun and, due to their small mass and ghostly nature, quickly leave at close to the speed of light, carrying information about the reactions that birthed them.

By making measurements of these neutrinos, we can decode the messages they carry from the sun's interior.

However, because neutrinos don't behave like "regular" matter, and interact only via the "weak nuclear force," they are notoriously difficult to detect.

The solar neutrino problem

The Homestake (or Davis) experiment, pioneered by American chemist and physicist Ray Davis in the late '60s, was situated in a goldmine 1480 meters under the Black Hills of South Dakota.

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This shielded the detector from "noise," like potentially confounding cosmic rays.

It used an immense 380,000 liters (or 615 tons) of dry-cleaning fluid, rich in chlorine, as its detector. Neutrinos will occasionally convert chlorine into radioactive argon, and the number of argon atoms can then be counted.

Despite this colossal scale, the experiment initially detected only about one neutrino every two days.

This result was in stark disagreement with the theoretically predicted neutrino detection rateabout two-thirds of the neutrinos seemed to be missing.

This was dubbed the "solar neutrino problem."

Daviss Solar Neutrino Detector detected about one neutrino every two days, one-third of the expected amount. Credit: Wikimedia

It was initially suspected that there was something wrong with the solar models. For example, the flux of boron-8 neutrinos is exquisitely sensitive to the solar core temperature (to be precise, it depends on the temperature to the 24th power).

Skeptics questioned whether there was really a "missing neutrino" discrepancy at all.

However, the solar models were refined and better measurements confirmed that the solar neutrino problem was real.

It turns out that neutrinos change identity as they travel.

Neutrinos come in three types: the electron neutrino, the mu neutrino and the tau neutrino. The nuclear fusion processes in the sun make only electron-type neutrinos.

But as they move through space, they change type, and some arrive at Earth as mu or tau neutrinosinvisible to the Homestake experiment.

This shape-shifting ability is due to a quantum mechanical interference effect, which enables neutrinos to oscillate back and forth, from one type to another, over large distances.

The ultimate confirmation of solar neutrino oscillations came three decades later, from the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory (SNO), which used two separate detection processescharged current interactions (CC), which can detect only electron-type neutrinos; and neutral current interactions (NC), which can detect all types of neutrinos.

The comparison between the two unequivocally demonstrated that, roughly, two thirds of the electron-type neutrinos produced in the sun have changed identity by the time they show up on Earth.

DUNE (but not Arrakis)

The Homestake mine is once again at the forefront of solar neutrino studies, with a new experiment called DUNE.

While DUNE wasn't primarily designed to detect solar neutrinos, we have shown that DUNE will be able to do something like SNObut much better.

Neutrinos produced in the core of the sun from the beta-decay of boron-8 stream through the Earth. A small fraction of them will bump into argon nuclei in the DUNE experiment, which causes them to release gamma rays that can be detected. Credit: University of Melbourne

DUNE is a massive new neutrino detector that will consist of about 70,000 tons of liquid argon, located in a huge, newly excavated chamber in the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), at a cost of more than US$3 billion.

This is the largest quantity of liquid argon that is ever likely to be amassed in one location.

While Pauli worried that neutrinos might never be detected, we are now entering an era of precision neutrino physics, made possible by truly enormous detectors that will detect many hundreds of thousands of neutrinosaround a hundred every day.

Our new paper shows that DUNE will be able to measure the total flux of all neutrino types using NC interactions with argon nuclei.

DUNE wasn't expected to have this capability, but we found that these interactions are more frequent and easier to observe than previously thought.

An earlier paper showed that DUNE will also be able to measure the flux of electron-type neutrinos using CC interactions with argon.

Together, these new-found capabilities will enable DUNE to compare the rates of CC and NC interactions to make a high-precision measurement of the fraction of neutrinos that change flavor.

This will allow very accurate measurements of those quantum shape-shifting properties of neutrinos.

It will also provide a wealth of information about the deep secrets at the core of our sun, and, ultimately, the fundamental laws of the universe.

More information: Stephan A. Meighen-Berger et al, Enhancing DUNE's Solar Neutrino Capabilities with Neutral-Current Detection, Physical Review Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1103/htfm-tbdq Journal information: Physical Review 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:

Three state-listed plants that persist in northeast Illinois are, from left, the grass pink orchid, Calopogon tuberosus, the orange fringed orchid, Platanthera ciliaris, and the cuckoo flower, Cardamine pratensis var. palustris. Credit: From left, Brian Charles, Dr. Thomas G. Barnes/USFWS, Brian Charles

Scientists from the Illinois Natural History Survey and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources have updated the state conservation status ranks, or S-ranks, of threatened and endangered plants in Illinois. The update includes some plants not recorded in the state for decades and finds many that, while still threatened, are doing better than previously thought.

Their findings are detailed in the Natural Areas Journal.

The 331 plants on the list are as fascinating as they are rare, said Brian Charles, an INHS scientific specialist in botany who led the multiyear effort. They include carnivorous plants like sundews, pitcher plants and bladderworts; and 18 species of orchids.

Some commercially important but state-imperiled species such as the highbush blueberry, the large cranberry and the small cranberry have managed to persist in the wild in Illinois despite their small populations. The native version of wild tarragon, a culinary spice used around the world, also persists in northern Illinois.

The list also includes a dwarf prickly pear cactus, which some people are surprised to learn is native to Illinois, Charles said, and the silvery bladderpod, which is more typical in the western U.S. and represents an outlier because it survives here, hundreds of miles from its normal range.

State lists form the foundation of federal threatened and endangered species lists, Charles said. Conservation status S-ranks from states or provinces are used to compile national and global rankings, and states are often the first to recognize that some plant populations are threatened or imperiled or trending downward in an alarming way.

Brian Charles, an Illinois Natural History Survey scientific specialist in botany, led a multiyear effort to rank threatened and endangered plant species in Illinois. Credit: Brian Charles

Two state-listed plants found in northwest Illinois, from left: the dwarf, or fragile, prickly pear, Opuntia fragilis and the long-bract frog orchid, Dactylorhiza viridis. Credit: Brian Charles

The state-imperiled silvery bladderpod, Physaria ludoviciana, is being pollinated by a sand sweat bee, Lasioglossum viereckii. This plant persists in the Illinois River floodplain. Credit: Brian Charles

Two state-listed plants which persist in northeast Illinois: the bog buckbean, Menyanthes trifoliata, left, and the lesser purple-fringed orchid, Platanthera psycodes, which is critically imperiled in Illinois. Credit: From left, Brian Charles, Tucker SP

The Illinois S-ranks had not been updated since 1987, and Charles and his colleagues used every available means to put together an accurate account of the status of Illinois plants. They began with the Biotics database from the NatureServe Network, a network of scientists from governmental and nongovernmental organizations dedicated to the preservation of threatened and endangered species across North America. The database houses population data for all threatened and endangered plant species across North America.

"We gathered locality records from online sources such as the Consortium of Midwest Herbaria, iNaturalist and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility," the researchers wrote.

The researchers obtained records from regional conservation districts, reviewed published and unpublished reports, interviewed local experts and visited herbaria for specimens that had not yet been digitized. They also went out into the field to look for more than 150 populations of rare species in areas where they had been reported historically.

"Going out to find historical records is kind of like a rare-plant treasure hunt," Charles said.

The team then used an established protocol for ranking each species based on its rarity, the threats it faces and trends in its population stability, growth or losses.

Some of the state-listed plants in Illinois are carnivorous, like the round-leaved sundew, Drosera rotundifolia, left, and the purple pitcher plant, Sarracenia purpurea. Credit: Brian Charles, left, and Wilson44691

The findings provide a new perspective on the status of the rarest plants in Illinois. Of the 331 threatened and endangered plants reassessed, three speciesthe Laurentian fragile fern, the small whorled pogonia, and a plant known as goosefoot corn saladwere extirpated in Illinois, meaning they were lost to the state. But the trends overall appeared more positive.

A total of 257 species were listed in both 1987 and 2023, but their rankings improved, with a decrease in the number of the most imperiled species from 228 to 152 and other declines in the severity of many species' ranks. Only three species were found to be more imperiled than in 1987.

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However, the improved status of many of the plants on the list is likely the result of more thorough surveys and methods for documenting threatened and endangered species, Charles said.

"There are a lot more folks on the ground looking, so of course, we're going to find more populations of these plants," he said. "Many species are still not doing well at the individual population level but are simply less rare overall than we previously thought. And some of the rare plants that are increasing are in areas that are being managed to preserve them, so their comeback is evidence that such approaches are working."

The "treasure hunt" also yielded some welcome surprises, Charles said.

"We found orchids and other plants that hadn't been seen in many years," he said. "We found things that were considered completely gone, that we weren't even looking for."

Eight of the state-listed plants are also listed as threatened or endangered at the federal level. These include the Eastern prairie fringed orchid, leafy prairie clover and Mead's milkweed.

The regions with the highest concentration of threatened and endangered plant species include northeast Illinois in a zone that includes Rockford and the Chicago metropolitan area, central Illinois and floodplains along the Illinois and Mississippi River Valleys.

The work does not end with the updated S-ranks.

"I'm also going through each individual plant occurrence to assess which species and populations have the greatest need for immediate intervention," he said.

Threatened and endangered species conservation status updates also allow states to collaborate on saving plants from extinction. For example, a rare plant with a relatively large population in southern Illinois, softleaf arrow-wood, is more imperiled in nearby states.

"Some folks from neighboring states where they have almost no populations reached out and asked for seeds," Charles said.

Citizen efforts can make a big difference in protecting rare species, Charles said. He urges interested Illinoisans to volunteer with Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves or with Plants of Concern, a volunteer organization that conducts rare-plant monitoring in the Midwest U.S.

"I should note that this project was possible due to the regional, national and international expertise of the botanical team at INHS, including Paul Marcum, David Zaya, Greg Spyreas, Eric Ulaszek and Brenda Molano-Flores," Charles said.

More information: Brian Charles et al, Illinois Threatened and Endangered Plant S-Rank Update and a New Illinois Plant Watch List, Natural Areas Journal (2025). DOI: 10.3375/2162-4399-45.3.5 Journal information: Natural Areas Journal
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The limestone foundations of Troys early bronze age citadel (c. 2350BC) in north-western Anatolia, Turkey. Credit: University of Tubingen

Sometimes the seeds of collapse are sown in the very soil of prosperity. Beneath the ancient city of Troy's shining walls, the earth quietly cracked under the weight of its ambition.

When we think of environmental destruction today, images of oil rigs, coal plants or plastic islands come to mind. But long before industry, ancient societies were already pushing their ecosystems to the brink.

One striking example comes from early Bronze Age Troya story of economic brilliance shadowed by lasting ecological cost. It is not merely a tale of innovation and success, but a cautionary one about overreach, exhaustion and the hidden costs of unchecked growth.

Between 2500 and 2300BC, Troy emerged as a center of power and experimentation in northwestern Anatolia (the Asian part of what is now Turkey), centuries before Homer's Iliad made it legendary. At its peak, the city is estimated to have had a population of 10,000.

Through years of excavation with the University of Tubingen's Troy Project, I have come to understand how deliberate choices in production, planning and organization gradually transformed a modest Bronze Age village into a vibrant community with early urban traits. Troy's monumental stone buildings, orderly streets and distinct residential quarters reflected a society in transition.

At the heart of this transformation was the rise of mass production. Drawing on Mesopotamian models, the potter's wheel revolutionized Troy's ceramics, enabling faster, more uniform and large-scale output. Wheel-thrown pottery soon dominated, marked by deep grooves and simplified finishes that prioritized efficiency over artistry.

As production ramped up, so too did the need for a more structured and specialized workforce. Craftsmanship shifted from homes into workshops and labor became increasingly specialized and segmented. Trade flourished, reaching far beyond the Troad (the broader landscape around Troy) and surpassing the settlement's local reach.

To manage this growing complexity, people introduced standardized weights and administrative sealstools of coordination and control in an increasingly commercialized world.

But progress, then as now, came at a cost. The very innovations that fueled Troy's ascent unleashed forces that proved increasingly difficult to contain.

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Prosperity through extraction

Troy's wealth was built on relentless extraction. Monumental buildings demanded tons of limestone from nearby quarries. Clay was dredged from once-fertile riverbanks to feed kilns and brick-making. Forests were stripped bare for timber and firewoodthe lifeblood of a booming ceramic industry that burned day and night.

Agriculture, too, underwent radical intensification. Earlier generations had rotated crops and rested their fields. Troy's farmers, by contrast, pursued maximum yields through continuous cultivation. Emmer and einkorn (ancient wheat varieties well-suited to poor soils but low in yield and protein) dominated. They were hardy and easy to store, but nutritionally depleting.

As farmland expanded onto steep, fragile slopes, erosion took hold. Hills once covered in forest became barren, as archaeobotanical evidence confirms.

Livestock added further pressure. Herds of sheep and goats grazed intensively on upland pastures, tearing up vegetation and compacting the soil. The result was reduced water retention, collapsing topsoil and declining biodiversity. Gradually, the ecological equilibrium that had underpinned Troy's prosperity began to unravel.

By around 2300BC, the system began to fracture. A massive fire ravaged the settlementperhaps triggered by revolt or conflict. Monumental structures were abandoned, replaced by smaller dwellings and modest farmsteads. The center of power faltered.

This collapse is likely to have been driven by a combination of factors: political tensions, external threats and social unrest. But the environmental strain is impossible to ignore. Soil exhaustion, deforestation and erosion would have led to water scarcity, resource scarcity and possibly even famine. Each factor eroded the foundations of Troy's stability.

In the aftermath, adaptation took precedence over ambition. Farmers diversified their crops, moving away from high-yield monoculture towards more varied and resilient strategies. Risk was spread, soil partially recovered and communities began to stabilize.

Troy did not vanishit adjusted and found a new balance for another millennia. But it did so in the shadow of a crisis it had helped create.

Lessons from a worn landscape

Troy's story is more than archaeological curiosityit is a mirror. Like many societies past and present, its economic ambitions outpaced ecological limits. The warning signs were there: falling yields, thinning forests, eroding hillsides. But the illusion of endless growth proved too tempting to resist.

The parallels with today are stark. Resource depletion, short-term gain and environmental neglect remain central features of our global economy. Technologies may have evolvedthe mindset, however, has not. We consume, discard, expand and repeat.

But Troy also offers a glimmer of hope: the possibility of adaptation after excess, resilience after rupture. It reminds us that sustainability is not a modern idealit is a timeless necessity.

Troy is proof that no society, however ingenious, is immune to the consequences of ecological overreach. The warning signs of imbalance are never absentthey are merely easy to ignore. Whether we choose to heed them is up to us.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
China's national library exhibits rare WWII documents

Xinhua) 10:30, August 13, 2025

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The National Library of China (NLC) opened a public exhibition on Tuesday showcasing rare documents and historical materials from the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945).

Through texts, artifacts, digitized archives and interactive sessions, the exhibition vividly chronicles the Chinese people's fearless resistance against Japanese invaders.

The publications on display are the result of a project launched by the NLC in 2012 for the preservation of historical archives from the revolutionary period.

Scannable QR codes provide access to digital resources on pivotal events and historical evidence, such as rare records from the Tokyo Trials, also known as the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, and documentation of bacterial warfare carried out by Japanese invaders in China.

Visitors can create commemorative badges and collectible bookplates, and share personal reflections on a dedicated message wall.

In addition to the Beijing venue, seven libraries across Hebei, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Hubei provinces are hosting simultaneous exhibitions.

According to the NLC, a total of 2,714 volumes of wartime documents from WWII have been systematically cataloged and published as of July.

The exhibition is free to the public and runs through Oct. 15.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
As the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally revs down for another year, the South Dakota Department of Transportation reported 537,459 vehicles entered the city during the 10-day event.

The total is an 11.3% increase over the five-year average and 56,472 more attendees than last years event.

Despite the increased numbers of attendees, Sturgis Police Department Chief of Police Geody VanDewater said each agency was fully prepared and felt there was no need to bring in extra resources to promote public safety this year.

Weve been bringing in the same amount of staff, actually, were probably less staff than we have been in years past because of personal and professional responsibilities so some of these people cant make it out, VanDewater said. We still rely on our state and federal partners that come and bring in their resources as well; they help supplement some of our major crime stuff and incidents.

We found a happy medium that seems to work well, so were sticking with that, Meade County Sheriff Pat West said.

The Meade County Sheriffs Office reported it responded to 1,405 calls for service from Aug. 1 through 6 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, up from 1,114 from last year. The office conducted 585 traffic stops over that timeframe and made 36 driving under the influence arrests, up from 478 and 22, respectively, in 2024. Of those DUIs, six were second offenses.

The Sturgis Police Department responded to eight injury accidents through 6 a.m. Saturday and made 59 drunken driving arrests over that time. The department noted there were 66 driving while intoxicated arrests over the same period in 2024.

The police department reported a grand total of 210 non-traffic arrests and 328 traffic arrests throughout the week, with both totals down more than 100 from 2024. The number of local residents arrested was 80.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol reported 119 DUIs through 6 a.m. Sunday, in addition to 104 felony drug arrests. There were 155 DUIs and 163 felony drug arrests over the same timeframe in 2024.

The patrol reported four fatal crashes during the rally and 66 motorcycle crashes in Meade County. There were six other injury crashes and at least two other fatal crashes involving motorcycles within South Dakota during the dates during and surrounding the rally, according to the patrol.

Below is the list of fatal motorcycle crashes that occurred between July 31 through Aug. 10:

Florida man dies in motorcycle crash east of Deadwood

A Pompano Beach, Florida man died after crashing his motorcycle just before 7 p.m. Thursday, July 31, near Deadwood, the South Dakota Department of Public Safety said.

Anthony Michalicki, 70, was driving a 1999 Harley Davidson MC west on US Highway 14A when he went off the road and into a ditch, separating from his motorcycle at mile marker 41, one mile east of Deadwood. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The DPS said the crash information is preliminary.

Chicago man dies in motorcycle crash on Interstate 90

A motorcyclist from Chicago died in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 90 Friday afternoon, Aug. 1.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol said the wreck occurred around 2:18 p.m. at mile-marker 268, 3 miles east of Chamberlain.

A preliminary investigation determined the man, Manuel Acosta, 71, was driving a 2014 Harley Davidson FLHTCU west on I-90 near when the motorcycle began wobbling and then went down, separating the driver from the motorcycle, which entered the ditch.

The driver was transported to Chamberlain Hospital where he was pronounced dead, the patrol said. He was wearing a helmet.

A 58-year-old man dies in motorcycle crash on US Highway 16A

A 58-year-old man died Saturday morning, Aug. 2, after crashing his motorcycle into other motorists, the South Dakota Department of Public Safety said.

The name of the man has not been released pending the notification of family members.

He was driving a 2019 Harley Davidson on US Highway 16A when he failed to turn on a curve of the roadway and tipped over, sliding into the eastbound lanes. He then collided into three motorcyclists where he sustained fatal injuries. The other motorists received serious non-life-threatening injuries.

Helmet use of all four individuals is under investigation.

One killed and three injured after motorcycle crash on US Highway 16A

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety reported one dead and three injured after a motorcycle accident on Monday, Aug. 4.

A 60-year-old man along with a woman passenger was traveling westbound on US Highway 16A, when he attempted to navigate a sharp right-hand corner. The 2019 Harley Davidson scraped at the bottom causing the driver to lose control of the turn and cross over to the eastbound lane. The driver then collided with a 2000 Indian motorcycle and a 2008 Can-Am Roadster that were traveling in that lane.

The Harley continued into the ditch, while the other two bikers remained in the eastbound lane of travel. The 60-year-old driver sustained fatal injuries, and his passenger sustained life-threatening injuries and was flown to Rapid City Monument for treatment.

The other two drivers both sustained serious non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Custer Monument Hospital for treatment.

None of the four people were wearing a helmet.

South Dakota Highway Patrol reports 2 more fatal motorcycle crashes

The South Dakota Highway Patrol reported a pair of fatal motorcycle crashes.

According to data compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2 through 6 a.m. Friday, Aug. 8, there have been four fatal crashes covered by the patrol.

In an update to a crash that occurred around 12:50 a.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 14A near mile-marker 52, the patrol said a 28-year-old man involved in the crash died on Monday. The patrol said Sturgis police attempted to stop a 2021 Harley Davidson motorcycle for exhibition driving near the Iron Horse Saloon. The motorcycle fled and Sturgis police engaged in a pursuit.

The motorcycle left the lane of travel at a high speed and entered the ditch at mile-marker 52. A medical helicopter took the driver to Monument Health, where he later died.

The patrol also reported a crash that occurred around 3:53 p.m. on Thursday at South Dakota Highway 44 and Airport Road. A man driving a 2024 Honda CBR motorcycle was traveling westbound on Highway 44 toward Airport Road. A person driving a 2015 Toyota Tacoma was eastbound on Highway 44 preparing to make a left turn onto Airport Road. The pickup truck driver did not see the motorcyclist and began to make a left turn. The motorcycle ran into the truck.

The 23-year-old male driver of the motorcycle was transported to Monument Health in Rapid City, where he died, the patrol said. The driver of the Tacoma was not injured.

After a follow-up inquiry, the patrol told the Journal potential charges are under investigation related to the crash. The entrance to the Rapid City Regional Airport was blocked for a few hours after the crash.

Photos from Nickelback, Gene Simmons and Saliva shows at Sturgis Buffalo Chip Saliva A large crowd turned out for Saliva at Buffalo Chip. Hand up Saliva rocked the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva Saliva rocked the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva Saliva plays at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva crowd The Buffalo Chip crowd cheers on Saliva. Saliva Saliva rocked the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva Saliva plays at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva Saliva frontman Bobby Amaru sings on the Buffalo Chip stage. Photo A couple has their photo taken at the Saliva concert. Saliva Saliva plays at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Saliva The crowd at the Saliva show. Phones Crowd members take photos and video of Saliva. Gene Simmons Band Gene Simmons, right, and Jason Walker of the Gene Simmons Band rock the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Gene Simmons Band Later in the show Gene Simmons pulled a fan up on stage. Leg kick Rockin' out. Fan with phone A fan takes a brief livestream of the Gene Simmons Band performance. Crowd at Gene Simmons Band A large crowd turned out for the Gene Simmons Band. Simmons and Woods Gene Simmons, left, and bassist Brent Woods perform. Jason Walker Gene Simmons Band guitarist Jason Walker sings on the Buffalo Chip stage. Gene Simmons Gene Simmons of KISS (and much more) fame brought his Gene Simmons Band to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Taking it all in Gene Simmons takes it all on at the start of the show. Gene Simmons Band at Buffalo Chip The Gene Simmons Band rocked the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Guitar player Guitarist Jason Walker of the Gene Simmons Band plays at Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Horns up Many a rock 'n roll devil horns were thrown up during the show. Simmons and Walker Gene Simmons, right, and bandmate Jason Walker perform on Sunday, Aug. 3 at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The best party anywhere Gene Simmons Band plays at "The Best Party Anywhere!" Hand out Gene Simmons of KISS (and much more) fame brought his Gene Simmons Band to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3. Crowd A raucous, engaged crowd cheered on the Gene Simmons Band at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Arms wide open Gene Simmons hypes up the crowd. Crowd at Buffalo Chip The crowd at Gene Simmons Band. Gene Simmons and crowd Thousands gathered at the Buffalo Chip on Sunday, Aug. 3 to watch the Gene Simmons Band. Nickelback Throngs of concert-goers piled into the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Wednesday, Aug. 6 for Nickelback's first Sturgis performance in nearly 20 years. Nickelback Nickelback has over 50 million records sold, 22 million monthly Spotify listeners, and recognition from Billboard as one of the most successfu Nickelback The rock band Nickelback played some of its most well-known hits, including "Photograph" and "Rockstar" and "Animals." Nickelback Throngs of concert-goers piled into the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Wednesday, Aug. 6 for Nickelback's first Sturgis performance in nearly 20 years. Nickelback plays at Sturgis Buffalo Chip A large crowd came out for Nickelback at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip during the 85th rally. Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback Nickelback
RSS

CHITWAN, Aug 12: The Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) has been detected in poultry farms in Chitwan. The National Avian Disease Investigation Laboratory (NADIL) in Chitwan confirmed the disease after a three-month long study.

According to Dr. Bijay Kumar Shrestha, head of the NADIL, Chitwan, the disease has been observed in chickens in Chitwan and neighboring districts. Tests conducted using the ELISA method confirmed the virus in 33 percent of the 92 samples tested, amounting to 31 positive cases. The virus weakens the chickens immune system, making them vulnerable to other diseases.

Although no immediate visible effects are seen, the disease impacts production, leading to economic losses, Dr. Shrestha said. Chickens infected with CAV may suffer from anemia, slow weight gain and reduced egg production. Even if the chickens eat and move normally, the long-term effects should not be ignored, he added.

The disease was first reported in Nepal two years ago in Kathmandu. To prevent CAV, vaccination is recommended for both breeder and layer parent stock, as well as chicks.

Samples from 16 districts including Chitwan are tested at the laboratory. In the last Fiscal Year (FY) 2024/25, the lab tested 7,000 chickens from 2,500 farmers. Among these, Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H9) was found in 48 cases, Newcastle Disease in 13, Gumboro in 122 and Infectious Bronchitis in two.

Additionally, 1,120 chicken livers were tested, detecting E. coli in 785 cases and Salmonella in 112. Dr. Shrestha said these infections are caused by poor biosecurity. He advised strict biosecurity measures when transporting food, water, medicine, bedding or eggs and recommended thorough disinfection of all visitors and vehicles entering farms.RSS
Reuters

France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have told the United Nations they are ready to reinstate sanctions on Iran if it does not return to negotiations with the international community over its nuclear programme, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday.

The foreign ministers of the so-called E3 group wrote to the U.N. on Tuesday to raise the spectre of "snapback" sanctions unless Iran takes action, the report added citing a letter seen by the newspaper.

"We have made it clear that if Iran is not willing to reach a diplomatic solution before the end of August 2025, or does not seize the opportunity of an extension, E3 are prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism," the ministers said in the letter, according to the report.

The E3's warning comes after "serious, frank and detailed" talks with Iran in Istanbul last month, the first face-to-face meeting since Israeli and U.S. strikes on the country's nuclear sites.

Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The UK, France and Germany governments did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

(Reporting by Surbhi Misra in Bengaluru; Editing by Tom Hogue and Michael Perry)
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S. focusing on ending the war have not touched on security guarantees for Ukraine to prevent future Russian aggression and that meeting formats currently being discussed do not include Europes participation, both key demands of Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Russian forces on the ground have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk.

Zelenskyy said the necessity of territorial concessions was conveyed to him by U.S. officials ahead of a summit Friday between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and in further meetings at the level of national security officials.

It remained unclear whether Ukraine would take part in the Friday summit. European Union leaders also have been sidelined from the meeting, and they appealed to Trump on Tuesday to protect their interests.

Zelenskyy says Ukraine will not withdraw from the Donbas

Zelenskyy said Putin wants the remaining 9,000 square kilometers (3,500 square miles) of Donetsk under Kyivs control, where the wars toughest battles are grinding on, as part of a ceasefire plan, in a press briefing on Tuesday in Kyiv.

Doing so would hand Russia almost the entirety of the Donbas, a region comprising Ukraines eastern industrial heartland that Putin has long coveted.

Zelenskyy learned of Russia's position after holding a call with Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff, after the latters bilateral meeting with Putin. Witkoff told Zelenskyy that Russia was ready to end the war and that there should be territorial concessions from both sides. Some European partners were also part of the call.

And that, probably, Putin wants us to leave Donbas. That is, it didnt sound like America wants us to leave, he said, recounting the call.

Zelenskyy reiterated that withdrawing from Ukraine-controlled territory was out of the question, especially as the question of security guarantees for Ukraine, were not being discussed.

We will not leave Donbas. We cannot do this. Everyone forgets the first part - our territories are illegally occupied, Zelenskyy told reporters at a briefing on Tuesday. Donbas for the Russians is a springboard for a future new offensive."

Zelenskyy said this is what occurred in 2014 when Russia illegally annexed the Crimean Peninsula.

Seeking Trumps ear before the summit

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year.

The U.S. president has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

The Europeans and Ukraine are wary that Putin, who has waged the biggest land war in Europe since 1945 and used Russias energy might to try to intimidate the EU, might secure favorable concessions and set the outlines of a peace deal without them.

Referring to the format for ceasefire talks, Zelenskyy said on Tuesday that the U.S. proposed a bilateral meeting, between the U.S. and Russia, and then a trilateral meeting that would include Ukraine. Zelenskyy said the presence of Europe was important for Kyiv because these were the only partners offering security guarantees, including funding the Ukrainian army.

European countries overarching fear is that Putin will set his sights on one of them next if he wins in Ukraine.

Their leaders said Tuesday they welcome the efforts of President Trump towards ending Russias war of aggression against Ukraine. But, they underlined, the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine and international borders must not be changed by force.

The Europeans on Wednesday will make a fresh attempt to rally Trump to Ukraines cause at virtual meetings convened by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Trump did not confirm whether he would take part but did say Im going to get everybodys ideas before meeting with Putin.

Russia holds shaky control over four of the countrys regions, two in the countrys east and two in the south.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the chief of Zelenskyys office, said anything short of Russias strategic defeat would mean that any ceasefire deal would be on Moscows terms, erode international law and send a dangerous signal to the world.

A profoundly alarming moment for Europe

Trumps seemingly public rehabilitation of Putin  a pariah in most of Europe  has unnerved Ukraines backers.

The summit in Alaska is a profoundly alarming moment for Europe, said Nigel Gould-Davies, senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London.

According to Gould-Davies, Putin might persuade Trump to try to end the war by accepting Russian sovereignty over parts of Ukraine, even beyond areas that it currently occupies. Trump also could ease or lift sanctions which are causing chronic pain to the Russian economy.

That would provoke a really serious split in the transatlantic alliance," he said.

The war isnt about Russias territorial expansion but about Putins goal of subordinating Ukraine, which would create the opportunity to threaten other parts of Europe, Gould-Davies said.

It was unclear whether the Europeans also were unsettled by Trump mistakenly saying twice he would be traveling to Russia on Friday to meet Putin. The summit is taking place in the U.S. state of Alaska, which was colonized by Russia in the 18th century until Czar Alexander II sold it to the U.S. in 1867.

Tuesdays European joint statement was meant to be a demonstration of unity. But Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is Putins closest ally in Europe and has tried to block EU support for Ukraine, was the only one of the blocs 27 leaders who refused to endorse it.

Russia closes in on Pokrovsk

Russia appeared closer to taking an important city in the Donetsk region, Pokrovsk.

Military analysts using open-source information to monitor the battles said the next 24-48 hours could be critical. Losing Pokrovsk would hand Russia an important victory ahead of the summit. It also would complicate Ukrainian supply lines to the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has focused the bulk of military efforts.

A lot will depend on availability, quantity and quality of Ukrainian reserves, Pasi Paroinen, an analyst with the Finland-based Black Bird Group, wrote on social media late Monday.

Ukraines military said its forces are fending off Russian infantry units trying to infiltrate their defensive positions in the Donetsk region. The regions Ukrainian military command on social media Monday acknowledged that the situation remains difficult, unpleasant and dynamic.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, a Russian missile attack on a military training facility left one soldier dead and 11 others wounded, the Ukrainian Ground Forces posted on social media.
Authorities report significant decrease in Tulum crime rate

Tulum, Q.R.  Tulum Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo said there has been a significant decrease in high-impact crime rates in the municipality. During a press conference, he said that decrease is the result of coordinated work between all levels of government as well as the commitment of law enforcement agencies.

Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo

Edgar Aguilar Rico, the Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection of Tulum, reported that from August 4 to 10, 41 people were arrested for administrative offenses and six more for other crimes thanks to joint operations with the State Attorney Generals Office.

Some of the August arrests included that of 20 year old Moises Alejandro G from Michoacan, who was found in possession of a variety of hard narcotics for sale.

Two people from Argentina, Maria del Rosario E. and Manuel Agustin, were arrested for drug possession as well as connection to the extortion of a local bar. According to Aguilar Rico, the pair allegedly demanded monthly payments in exchange for allowing the sale of drug from the bar. Aguilar Rico said they are believed to have tossed a Molotov cocktail at the bar, starting a fire in order to intimidate the owner.

During the press conference, he also reported five institutional operations were carried out with the participation of the Navy, Army and National Guard as well as the State and Municipal Police.

Edgar Aguilar Rico, the Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection of Tulum

A total of 331 inspections were carried out on people, 73 on vehicles and 117 on motorcycles, in addition to the seizure of 14 abandoned vehicles and 24 illegal motorcycles, he reported.
Cozumel reports increase in hotel occupancy rates over last year

Cozumel, Q.R.  The island of Cozumel continues to consolidate its position as one of Mexicos most attractive tourist destinations. During July 2025, the islands hotels recorded an average occupancy rate of 60 percent, representing a 4.3 percentage point increase over June and an increase of more than 9 percent compared to the same month last year.

Mayor Jose Luis Chacon Mendez celebrated the results saying, this growth is no coincidence. Its the result of coordinated work between authorities, the hotel industry, airlines and tourism developers.

Cozumel is more vibrant than ever and we continue to advance to offer quality experiences that will maintain our position as a leading destination in the Mexican Caribbean.

The Cozumel Island Hotel Association (AHIC) says these results confirm that hotel tourism remains strong, even during the low season.

Jose Elias Farah Ceh, Deputy Director of Tourism, reported 71 percent of visitors arriving by air are foreigners primarily from the United States (39.3%) and Canada (14.8%), according to data from the Quintana Roo Tourism Secretariat (SEDETUR).

Adding to this growth is the expansion of air connectivity. Volaris will increase its flight frequencies from Mexico City on August 3 and 31. Meanwhile, Viva Aerobus will add additional flights on September 18 and 19 from AIFA to accommodate the arrival of Ironman 70.3 Cozumel triathletes.

Aeromexico will add two additional flights on September 19 and 22, according to Pablo Alfonso Aguilar Torres, the island representative of the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council (CPTQ).
Cancun International part of more than 100 flights and 14,000 passengers affected by Mexico City storm

Cancun, Q.R.  Flights into Cancun International from Mexico City were disrupted for nearly three days by bad weather. International flights in and out of Mexico City were also disrupted due to heavy rain and poor visibility. The airport says more than 100 flights and 14,000 passengers were affected by the back-to-back storms.

Heavy rain created poor visibility at the Mexico City Airport starting Sunday evening.

Cancun International Airport reported disruptions to air operations early this week due to the ongoing rain in Mexico City. On Tuesday, Cancun airport managing company ASUR reported eight delayed flight including a Volaris flight arriving from Mexico City and a Turkish Airlines flight arriving from Istanbul.

Six Cancun flights bound for Mexico City, three Aeromexico flights to Mexico City, two Volaris flights and one Turkish Airlines flight to Istanbul, left the tarmac late. The delays, and in some instances cancellations, were caused by heavy thunderstorms that started Sunday evening.

More than a dozen Cancun flights were affected by back-to-back storms that left sections of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) severely flooded. Hundreds of travelers were left standing in long lines inside the Mexico City airport due to flight delays. Passengers on cancelled flights slept inside the airport.

Updated flight information screens inside AICM displayed lines of closed runways due to flooding which caused delays in aircraft landing and taking off from one of Mexicos main airports.

Flooded runways were closed causing departure delays at the Mexico City airport.

On Tuesday, the Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City reported on the system that left the airport scrambling to keep up. At approximately 7:45 p.m. on August 10, due to heavy rains that occurred in the late afternoon and evening in the airport area, which, according to reports from Mexico City authorities, could have reached 50 to 77 mm of precipitation, air operations were suspended.

International flights also suffered delays due to cerrado or closed runways.

Due to reports of poor visibility and flooding caused by the rain, in order to avoid compromising operational safety, landing and takeoff operations were suspended for approximately four hours by order of the aeronautical authority to carry out work to remove the water left by the torrential rain, which would allow operational capacity to be restored.

The intensity of the atypical storm also caused various areas of the terminal buildings to be affected, collapsing the storm drain system, despite the fact that some areas had completed maintenance work in 2024 and earlier this year.

Rainwater was seen pouring through an inside wall of the airport Sunday night.

To address the flooding, both in the aeronautical area and in the buildings and roads around the airport, vactor equipment and motor pumps were put into operation to ensure optimal conditions on the runways, taxiways, and platforms, enabling the resumption of air operations, AICM reported.

They also said 104 flights and 14,892 passengers were affected, and their flight plans were diverted to alternate airports. At 00:05 on August 11, flights resumed on runway 05 left  23 right, and at 06:00 on runway 05 right  23 left.

A luggage area inside the airport was one of several flooded.

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), headed by Jesus Antonio Esteva Medina, reported that an inter-institutional meeting was held with the participation of the Benito Juarez International Airport of Mexico City (AICM), the National Water Commission (Conagua), and the Government of Mexico City.

The goal was to address the impacts registered in the AICM and its surrounding areas, resulting from contingencies due to rain. At the meeting, the implementation of various actions was agreed upon to ensure the safe and continuous operation of the Airport, the SICT said without providing details.
SIOUX CITY -- Perdue Premium Meat Company announced the official grand opening Wednesday of a 225,000-square-foot facility in Sioux City that specializes in case-ready pork production.

The facility, at 6201 MacArthur St., near Sioux Gateway Airport, is a former SAGE military building that offers more than 120,000 square feet of production space. The building formerly housed Tur-Pak Foods, which closed in 2022.

The new pork packaging operation represents a $60 million investment in the region. It will bring 103 new jobs to the area in addition to the 200 workers who transferred from a nearby Perdue facility.

"We've got an additional 100 jobs coming to Sioux City through this facility. They'll be everything from maintenance people to supervisory positions, as well as production workers," Senior Vice President of Pork Operations Gary Malenke said, after Perdue Farms Chairman Jim Perdue cut a yellow ribbon with an oversized pair of scissors outside the facility.

Malenke said the company broke ground with construction a little over three years ago and started production in the facility about two months ago.

"Sioux City has just a great history of food production, and playing off that foundation of food production here in Sioux City was really just a staple of what we wanted to do," Malenke said. "We just think it's a great place to employ people. It's a great location. We're right on the interstate. There's just a lot of things that attract us to Sioux City."

Mayor Bob Scott said it was a "major undertaking" to transform the building into the state-of-the-art facility that it is today.

"I can tell you that the building needed a lot of love, and, obviously, at $60 million they got that. I just want to thank the Perdue folks for their investment in our community," he said. "We understand food processing in this community. We don't shy away from that. We welcome these types of investments."

When his grandparents started Perdue Farms more than 125 years ago, Perdue said he doesn't know if they would have imagined something like the Sioux City facility in Iowa. But he said he knows his grandparents would be proud of what the company is doing there.

"At Perdue, we've always believed in doing things the right way, even when it's not the easy way. That means treating our animals with care, supporting farmers, investing in our people and delivering food that we're proud to serve to our own families," Perdue said. "This operation is the next chapter in that story."

The plant will produce products from Perdue's premium Niman Ranch and Coleman All Natural Meat brands, as well as multiple private label customers.

"There's a de-boning, packaging of product that's mostly pork," Malenke said. "We do a few other species, but largely pork, and then we take and actually portion that product down to individual packages that a consumer can buy -- all the way down to the point of putting the weight on the package, the price on the package, the label on the package, so that when it gets to the store, they literally have to open the box and put it on the shelf."

Since virtually 100% of the product will come from Perdue's Sioux Center facility, Malenke said the two operations are "very directly linked together."

"We have a strong presence in the Northeast, in the West, kind of in the Texas area. We're going to white tablecloth restaurants, high-end food service restaurants, and we're going to high-end retail," he said. "Consumers want to know more and more about their product, and we provide a lot of transparency on what we do. We really fill a niche for consumers that really want to go after no antibiotics ever -- those types of products."

Malenke said every Perdue facility has a "laser focus on safety" for its employees and consumers. He said the senior management team meets regularly to review "every opportunity" they have to improve safety.

"We have senior people in the organization that are behind this. They're investing in what it takes to prevent accidents and not to just wait for an accident to happen," he said.

Malenke said every single package at the plant will run through X-ray equipment to verify there's nothing wrong with it.

"That X-ray will do more than any human eye could possibly do. So it's just super important, because we're going retail. We're going to people. We're feeding people," he said. "The last thing we want to do is have a product that's inferior or something that's wrong with it."
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 boyfriend, a 34-year-old man, and I, a 32-year-old woman, finally got together six months ago after over a decade of friendship. Its fantastic, and our sex life is great. Hes on SSRIs and a pretty big stoner, so it takes him a while to get off, but that just means more fun for me, and we both finish every time.

But Ive recently noticed something curious that he does. He jacks off in his sleep. Its not like actual masturbation, reallyusually short bursts of pretty aggressive stroking for 10 to 15 seconds two or three times in a row, never gets fully hard, and never to completion. I have no idea if its every night (Im a heavy sleeper, and were not living together yet), but its pretty consistent. When we first got together and were going at it twice a night every night, I assumed he was at least semi-awake and trying to initiate, but it quickly became clear when I tried to engage that he was dead asleep, and since then, Ive let sleeping dicks lie.

I mentioned it the other day, and he was genuinely shocked. His previous long-term partners (who cohabited with him for several years) never mentioned it, so Im assuming this is unique to our relationship. He doesnt have sex dreamsand we talked openly about our sex lives/preferences/experiences throughout our friendship, so I have no reason to doubt thisand when we do have sex, hes always fully awake and present. Were good about communicating, so Im pretty confident its not a case of unmet needs (if anything, my sex drive is a little higher than his).

It doesnt bother me at all, but in my sexual experience, Ive never encountered this, and it doesnt really present like what Ive seen discussed in most sexsomnia research. Is this common? Could his medications or weed be contributing? Is there any reason we should be concerned? (I kind of want to start logging it to see if its tied to work stress or something, but I also dont want to make him feel like Im reducing his dick to a science experiment!)

Half-Mast Ships in the Night

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Dear Half-Mast Ships in the Night,

Its true that when we think about sexsomnia, its usually in the context of partnered sex. We tend to hear stories about the partner with the sleep disorder waking another partner up by engaging in some kind of sexual contact (in fact, this column has received several such accounts). But masturbation has been observed/studied in the context of sexsomnia/non-REM parasomnias, so your boyfriends behavior could very well qualify as sexsomnia.

I dont believe that sexsomnia presentations have been broken down by specific sex acts, but a Norwegian study published in 2010 found the lifetime prevalence of sexsomnia to be 7.1 percent among the people surveyed. (Other studies have found similar results.) So, its not exactly common, but not so rare as to fly under the radar of the science community. The suspected causes of non-REM parasomnias are vast and likely range from person to person. They include genetics, underlying health conditions like narcolepsy and sleep apnea, neurological conditions like Parkinsons and multiple sclerosis, and yes, antidepressants. Drinking alcohol before bed can also trigger them. If your boyfriend is snoring, that could be a factor. Additionally, these conditions are quite often precipitated by noise or light in the environmentsomebody switching on a light or a plane flying overhead. Simple things like making sure there is nothing in the environment thats disrupting his sleep are important as well, the neurologist/sleep physician and author of The Nocturnal Brain Guy Leschziner told me a few years ago, when we talked about another letter writers boyfriend who presented signs of sexsomnia.

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Your boyfriend wont be absolutely sure that what hes experiencing is sexsomnia without a sleep study, which he should get done. At the very least, reporting his experiences to a doctor could lead to testing for other conditions that may be useful in diagnosing and treating another, more pressing condition that needs it.

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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,

My partner and I are in our early 50s (both cisgender and heterosexual), married for 20-plus years, and have always enjoyed long sessions for our sex life (think three to four hours, during which I orgasm multiple times while he delays his for a grand finale). Weve experimented with his orgasm, and while he can accomplish a mini version (where he ejaculates a bit) and can keep going until he actually comes, he seems to be physically a one and done kind of guy. (Important to note here is that he generally enjoys the process of edging, and that these long sessions are usually at his instigation.)

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Recently, weve noticed that he cant get there, though! Well have had a great time, and taken breaks for water, cuddling, conversation, etc., as we usually do  but then, when he wants to approach the finish line, no matter what we do, he cant come. We joke about his penis sulking about having been repeatedly denied. And weve always been honest with one another about changes in our libido due to age and hormones. Every once in a while, were both horny, and he can come in two minutes. But he prefers the longer engagements where were at it for hours, and I love that level of intimacy too!

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Its not really a problem per se, as were always having a great time together. But I feel guilty that he cant get his after hes given me so much pleasure! Does this seem like a basic physiological/aging thing? (Should we take longer breaks after my orgasms?) If I can tell he is close, should I urge him to come even though I know hed prefer another two hours?

Not Sure This Even Qualifies as a Problem

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Dear Not Sure This Even Qualifies as a Problem,

If your partner is enjoying sex regardless of his failure to orgasm, this indeed may not qualify as a problem. You should try not to feel guilty about his physiologyits not personal, its just his body doing body stuff. It could very well be a product of agingdelayed ejaculation, if thats whats happening, is often the product of getting older. Other causes of DE can include certain medications, hormone-related conditions (like low testosterone), and neurological diseases. Id take this as an opportunity to get checked out in case any of these underlying issues is the culprit.

Youve joked about whats happening, but its time to talk seriously about it. Assuming there are no underlying conditions and hes just aging into someone who takes longer than an ideal time to orgasm, ask him what he wants: to keep your sex as is with longer sessions that may not yield orgasm, or to perhaps chase/induce orgasms whenever possible. It seems like the former scenario is his speed, which may be a sign of enlightenment. We often unthinkingly place such importance on orgasm that the highly pleasurable rest of sex is relegated to the outskirts. Maybe hes living in each melted moment, happy with the totality of sex as opposed to fixated on merely the climax. Ask him what hed prefer. Perhaps you could mix some short sessions in with your longer ones. But if hes fine with the way things are, let it be (with that doctors visit, just in case).

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Send Us Your Questions About the Workplace!

The columnists behind our 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!

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Dear How to Do It,

My wife and I have been together for 20 years, and our sex life is as good (and as frequent) as its ever been. However, a problem has arisen that I cant seem to solve. Over the last year, theres been about a 50 percent chance that friction from penetrative sex will cause an open sore on my penis, on the shaft, just below the head. Besides being painful, its a real hassle to treat the wound, which usually takes about four days to fully heal. When it first started, it happened four times in a row, and I put intercourse on hiatus. During that time, we tried out several dildos and eventually settled on a behemoth (like a massive cucumber) that absolutely dwarfs my hot-dog-sized penis. After a few months of me using it on her (she tells me she doesnt masturbate and wont use it on herself), she reported routinely having multiple orgasms.

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All good, right? Well, eventually she told me she missed intercourse with me. I did too, but I figured I couldnt compete with our new giant friend. Turns out I was totally wrong. Yes, this dildo fills her up in a way I cant, but in doing so, it has shown her exactly what spots need to be hit to achieve maximum pleasure. As a result, she can now guide me where I need to go, and she is still experiencing multiple orgasms during foreplay with intercourse as the grand finale, giving her the deepest and most intense orgasms shes ever had. The dildo hasnt come out in months, and her sexual appetite is off the charts. But the raw spot still persists, and its become difficult for me to finish because Im so in my head about reopening the wound. The last few times, Ive been certain that its reopened, but only been right half the time. Making things even worse is that the sore is millimeters away from a fairly large vein.

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Weve tried lots of lube to no avail. I thought maybe a penis sleeve could work, but the ones that have a big enough opening for me to fit inside tend to be too big to fit into her. We stopped doing certain positions that seem to be more likely to cause it to happen. But no matter the position or the amount of lube we use, the problem persists. Please help!

Rubbed Raw

Dear Rubbed Raw,

Its time to visit a doctor, preferably a dermatologist, though you could start with your general physician or even a urologist if thats more convenient. Friction burns on the penis caused by sex do happen without concurrent conditions, but there are a slew of said conditions youll want to rule out or, should you have one, treat. Things like STIs, fungus, yeast, and lichen planus can all cause irritation that flares with contact. Theres also the possibility of a fixed drug eruption, which is a side effect of medication that can cause localized sores (heres a case study of a guy who had one on his penis as a result of taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole). Think back to when this started and whether or not it coincided with a new medication.

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Because this is a relatively recent development, Id be willing to bet its the result of an acquired condition, especially if youve been thrusting your hot-dog-sized penis in the way you always have. So please go to a doctor about this. Persistent sore formation is perhaps a result of a fully treatable condition, and you may not have to endure this for much longer with the right care.

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In the meantime, make sure you moisturize your sore. You may want to give it more than four days to healeven if it looks good, go at least a week. Luckily, you do have the dildo solution in your (giant) back pocket in the event of a flare-up. Its not the real thing, but its better than nothing.

Rich

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I am a 38-year-old man who has had a varied and extensive sexual history. I have enjoyed multiple types of sexual relationships with women of all shapes and sizes, and even had a brief stint working in porn over 12 years ago. I was also a stripper in college and often went home with women. All this is to say, sex has been very central to who I am and how I define myself. I am currently married to an amazing woman, who I have been with for five years. We have an active sex life, but there is one problem that I just cant get over
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

This was the first year in three decades that Kaleidoscope Youth Center, Ohios longest-running drop-in space for LGBTQ+ youth, didnt have its queer prom. The event, typically held in May, brings together hundreds of students from dozens of schools for what the nonprofit fondly calls Other Prom: a night where they can bask in fleeting teenage bliss without having to worry about being bullied or harassed. The beloved event has been a staple of queer life in central Ohio since its inception in the early 90s. Held each year in a nearby auditorium, its been one of the few spaces where many of the youth who attend can be themselves, especially young people coming from more rural and conservative parts of the state.

But funding cuts at both the state and federal level have forced KYC to make hard decisions about its programming, according to staff members. Erin Upchurch, its executive director, estimates that the organization has lost $500,000 in funding within the past year, and she expects that they are likely to lose at least $275,000 more in the coming months. Due to the financial hardship it has been made to withstand, KYC recently cut its housing programwhich helps people exit homelessness and find stable shelterin half.

Thats a lot of money for a nonprofit. We had 19 people in our program, and were reducing it to eight, Upchurch says of the resident population, noting that even greater cuts may be coming. Theres a potential for more. We dont know whats going to happen.

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LGBTQ+ groups across the country are facing a major crisis as federal funding cuts threaten their very existence. President Donald Trumps war on nonprofits began on the very first day of his second term, when he signed an executive order directing the federal government to eliminate all grants related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. (That edict includes funding that had already been allocated.) Were the Oval Offices intentions not plain enough, Trump issued a separate directive stating that federal funds shall not be used to promote gender ideology, suggesting that any group the administration feels is too trans-friendly could be defunded.

The federal wrecking ball being taken to LGBTQ+ nonprofits is about more than just a line-item budget, however. Revoking critical resources could result in lives being lost, especially for organizations servicing the most marginalized. As they scramble for survival, nonprofit leaders are all too aware of this reality.

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The Delores Project, an extended-stay shelter for people who identify as female or nonbinary, anticipates losing up to $500,000 over the next year because of expected cuts for homeless services. Greater shortfalls may be imminent when the shelter applies for several contracts that are up for renewal next year, according to the Denver-based organizations executive director, Emily Wheeland. Other shelters that have requested funding, Wheeland says, have been forced to fill out forms asking: Do you have pronouns in your email signatures? Do you use the words trans or nonbinary anywhere? If the Delores Project were to answer honestly, they could be deemed ineligible.

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While the Delores Project is already fundraising to fill the anticipated shortage, Wheeland says the shelter would be forced to make painful cuts if it cannot make up the difference. Those could include eliminating its behavioral health teamwhich offers individual and group counselingor becoming an overnight-only facility. Cutting daytime shelter would mean that its residents would be on the street during the day, even during the dead of winter or the hottest stretch of summer.

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Were planning for all scenarios, but most nonprofits dont have a ton of financial reserves to tide them over for years on end, Wheeland says. A healthy nonprofit has six months of operating reserves, and thats not very long.

A Perfect Storm

As the Trump administration decimates the nonprofit sector at large, such funding woes are extremely pervasive among organizations serving queer people. This year, Pride Center San Antonio, a Texas-based community center offering free therapy and peer-to-peer support groups, says it has lost more than $200,000 in canceled grants. This includes the revocation of $187,000 earmarked for LGBTQ+ bystander intervention training, which trains individuals on how to respond when they witness acts of discrimination or even violence, such as a mass shooting.

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Its interim executive director, Lex Loro, adds that the nonprofit had also intended to apply for a $2 million grant through the National Institutes of Health in order to examine the disproportionate impact of caregiving fatigue in the LGBTQ+ community. The project would have spanned the next three years. That opportunity is completely off the table, Loro says. Were probably never going to see that money, not during this administration.

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These losses are having a grave impact on the ability of LGBTQ+ nonprofits to continue their work. Kellan Baker, executive director of the Institute for Health Research and Policy at Whitman-Walker, says the community health center lost seven NIH grants in a single weekend. Funding from the Department of Health and Human Services agency, Baker notes, accounts for 70 percent of the institutes annual budget.

After losing around $900,000 in funding, the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center had to reduce its staff from 17 to just five, according to executive director Ritchie T. Martin. A small handful of grants are currently keeping the center open, he says. We dont know how we are going to survive next year, Martin adds, noting that a partner organization recently closed its doors as the result, in part, of funding cuts. We dont know how were going to make it through the next month. Every day, I wake up, the first thing I do is check all devicesmy laptop, my phone, my text messagesto make sure that we still have an organization.

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The financial calamity that LGBTQ+ nonprofits are facing not only stems from Trump administration policy but from a perfect storm of factors. In addition to a precipitous drop in individual giving from local community members, corporate donations have plummeted. Data indicates this is the escalation of a years-long trend, one that began even before the onset of the second Trump presidency. Recently released numbers from Funders for LGBTQ Issues indicate that philanthropic giving to queer resource organizations already dropped by a considerable 22 percent between 2022 and 2023, likely in part due to the onslaught of anti-trans legislation at the state level. Those losses amounted to more than $49 million in critical funding.

While 2025 data is not yet available, the problem has only intensified in the past two years. Sarah Mikhail, CEO of Time Out Youth, says the Charlotte-based community center is grappling with a $175,000 budget gap because corporate donors no longer wish to be visibly associated with its work. (They will only fund behind-the-scenes efforts where their name wont be attached, she adds.) Kate Barnhart, executive director for New Alternatives, says the New York City homeless youth center is $60,000 behind in fundraising for 2025 after being ghosted by long-term donors.

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Not only are corporations pulling out of Pride, but theyre pulling out of supporting LGBTQ+ organizations in general, Barnhart says. At a certain point, were going to have to cut costs, and our budget is completely bare-bones. Theres nothing we can cut that would not affect the clients. Theres nothing extra in there.

Staying Afloat

These shortages are happening at the worst possible time for many LGBTQ+ organizations, who say they are only seeing demand skyrocket under the current administration. Time Out Youth has had a 44 percent increase this year in the number of young people seeking out its services, while New Alternatives stepped in to take on clients displaced following the closure of the South Bronx Job Corps, which Barnhart says left 90 residents with nowhere to live. Some of them are queer, she says, and so they wound up with us.

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Rainbow Youth Project USA, a suicide prevention organization with locations in Oklahoma and Indiana, reports that it has seen calls to its crisis hotline triple since the 2024 election, from around 3,000 to 9,000 a month. (This was even before the Trump administrations forced shutdown of LGBTQ+ support services through 988, the national suicide prevention hotline.) While it has not been directly impacted by Trump-era funding cuts, its executive director, Lance Preston, says the organization has had to step in after an Oklahoma City drop-in space for LGBTQ+ youth had to end its safe-space programming after losing $100,000 in state funding.

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Preston says that Rainbow Youth Project has no choice but to figure out how to absorb that program, even though they dont have the spare money to take on that responsibility.

If this program ends, we have 20-plus young people that lose the only support system that they have, Preston says. These are children who are already suffering with suicidality. The alternative is we let the program go away. They have nothing. They begin isolating, they become depressed, they become suicidal again, and we have the potential of losing one or more of them. That is unacceptable. Well make it work one way or the other.

LGBTQ+ nonprofits say they remain committed to finding solutions in order to ensure that vulnerable populations dont face crucial resources being interrupted. Funding cuts caused Kaleidoscope Youth Center to lay off numerous staff members earlier this year, including Maddie Hernandez, its now-former rapid rehousing case manager. In that role, Hernandez worked to obtain stable accommodations for adults between the ages of 18 and 24 at risk of homelessness, including providing aid for rent, utilities, and other necessities. Some of those resources are no longer available: Because of its reduced budget, KYC drastically slashed the food and nutritional assistance it provides to clients.

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Before Hernandez left KYC on June 30, staff members worked diligently to try to secure housing for individuals who would be displaced by funding cuts. Those unable to find new living accommodations on their own would have potentially been forced back onto the streets. But even for those who were lucky enough to find a place to stay, Hernandez fears for their long-term future now that their safety net is gone.

If they dont have KYC anymore, then they dont have any services, Hernandez says. I dont really know what happens if an emergency arises for them. I have no idea what they would do.
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The National Park Service has lost a quarter of its permanent staff since January, and the White House has proposed slashing a third of NPSs budget. Ultimately, Congress decided to claw back close to $300 million of already-approved funds for our parks. But the reduction is still notable, says Jon B. Jarvis, who served as the 18th director of NPS.

The thing to think about the budget and the park service is its an operational budget, explains Jarvis. The money pays staff to be in parks, to be there for the public, to help them have a good experience, to put out fires, to look out for wildlife, to tell the public how they can safely experience the park, to fix signs and plow roads and clean bathrooms and all of those things they have to do.

By taking away the money, he says, you take away the operation and the ability to manage these parks for future generations.

On a recent episode of What Next, guest host Rob Gunther spoke to Jarvis about the history of the national parks and how the Trump administration is shaking things up. This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Rob Gunther: Can you tell me how the National Park Service came about?

Jon B. Jarvis: It is a bit of a miracle. It really goes back to individuals who saw manifest destiny. That was the desire of the country to occupy all lands and develop them. They said: Wait a minute, there are special places. There are places that really should be set aside.

The first national park was Yellowstone, in 1872. The concept was that these extraordinary landscapes should be preserved for the enjoyment of future generations. In 1916 there was an effort to create an agency to manage them, led by Stephen Mather, a Berkeley graduate and an independently wealthy individual who loved these large Western landscapes.

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He came to Washington and created the NPS. And somewhat in the guise of the military, he hired former military officers as park superintendents. The early protectors of the parks were the Buffalo Soldiers. They were the Black soldiers based at some of the bases in the West. They were dispatched to protect places like Yosemite and Sequoia.

At first, the parks tended to be natural areas, mostly in the West. When Franklin Delano Roosevelt was president, all the historic sites, like the Civil War and Revolutionary War battlefields, were under the management of the War Department. But the then director of the park service, Horace Albright, convinced FDR to transfer those sites to the National Park Service. The service became the protector of not only these amazing natural landscapes but the cultural and historical sites of America. Were now at about 430 park units across the country that run from the Virgin Islands to American Samoa.

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Over the course of your four decades at the NPS, was the organization able to stay true to its mission of ensuring that these lands exist for future generations? Or did you see the institution change?

The agency stayed true to its core mission. There have been some dramatic changes. Early on in the park service, there was an inordinate focus on just the visitor experience. There were things that went on that we would not do today, like feeding bears and inviting the public to sit on bleachers as we fed them garbage in Yellowstone.

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Starting in the mid-60s, the NPS recognized that there needed to be a much greater emphasis on actually building a scientific program to better understandand learn how to managethese incredible resources for the future. They began to invest more in scholarly research around the historical sites and the natural resources as well. Today, at least until recent changes by the administration, theres been a strong emphasis on a scientific basis for management and a scholarly basis of management for the historical sites.

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You said until recent changes. Ever since Donald Trump took back the presidency, theres been an assault on not just the National Park Service but the entire federal bureaucracy. There have been orders for reductions in force across multiple agencies. Can you tell me about how the NPS has been affected?

Having served 40 years, Ive worked under President Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton and both of the Bush presidencies. The park service has generally fared well; at least, its never been targeted for reduction.

And the parks were popular. Last year, they hosted 320 million visitors. Theyre a money generator. The national parks generate over $55 billion for the American economy. That is the local economy, thats guides and outfitters, lodging, restaurants, souvenir sales, all of those things in gateway communities.

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These are American jobs. These are local jobs. When you think about that from a constituency standpoint, theres huge support for these parks to continue to operate as they have. In the past, if you talked to a lobbyist or representative of the Republican Party, they would say theres no political benefit in beating up the park service.

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Theres no benefit, and it doesnt cost a lot of money to keep these things up and running, right?

No, and I always like to make the point that its not a cost. Its an investment. You get a 4-to-1 return. The government puts $3 billion into the operation of the park service, and it gets a minimum of $12 billion directly back, and then that cascades through the economy. It also has, in the past, hosted 60 million international visitors. People come from all over the world to the United States to see natural wonders, in particular the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite. So whats been very challenging and surprising has been that in this new Trump administration, there has been a direct attack on the National Park Service, an attack on its personnel, its workforce, its budget, and its mission.

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Related From Slate How to Beat the National Park Crowds Read More

It seems as if the attacks are coming from multiple angles. Were seeing a reduction in the workforce. But were also seeing more of an ideological bent too. There are directives to take down certain signage at parks that might be perceived as progressive. Whats going on?

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Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum put out a secretarial order asking the visitors to report back to Washington if they heard anything or saw any signs that were negative about the American story.

Lets take an example of a park like Freedom Riders. Thats the story of when the public transportation system was desegregated to allow African Americans to ride anywhere they wanted to ride on the bus system. There was a group of individuals who tested that theory through the South, and the bus was attacked by the Ku Klux Klan and set on fire beside the highway. The KKK members held the door shut, attempting to burn these individuals alive. They fortunately did escape. Local police just stood by and watched. Thats well documented in American history. It was a dark period, obviously, of racism.

How do you tell that story in a positive light? We learn from these places. We should be saddened that they occurred, but we should learn from them. And thats the value proposition of having these places in the National Park Service. The story should be taught authentically based on good scholarship. But the challenge is that the administration is asking the park service not to tell those stories or to modify them or to somehow make them sound good. Theres no way you can put a happy face on the history of slavery in the United States.
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Over the past few days, a long-shot request for the Supreme Court to overturn marriage equality has snowballed into a major news story. Influential media outlets have covered it closely, and prominent politicians have seized upon it to warn that same-sex marriage is still under attack. It is certainly true that no one should take this hard-won right for granted. But any panic about this particular challengebrought by former Kentucky clerk Kim Davisis unwarranted. There is essentially no chance that the court will entertain Davis plea to abolish gay peoples constitutional right to marry; the odds round down to zero. And although apprehension about the justices hostility toward LGBTQ+ equality is justified, marriage does not yet appear to be in their crosshairs.

The most important thing to understand about Davis appeal is that it has a small likelihood of being taken up in the first place. Her lawyers have merely asked the court to consider it, filing whats known as a petition for certiorari. (They did so in July, and its unclear why the request is garnering so much attention now.) SCOTUS receives about 8,000 of these petitions every year and grants just a tiny number of themin recent years, fewer than 70. Anyone can ask the court to hear their appeal. And while it is technically accurate to say that the justices will consider her request, that does not mean they will resolve it on the merits. It simply indicates that they will have the opportunity to take it up, an opportunity that they are unlikely to accept.

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Why? Most obviously, Davis petition does not center on the question of marriage equality. It stems from a long-running battle over her refusal to grant a marriage license to a same-sex couple shortly after the Supreme Court affirmed their right to wed in 2015s Obergefell v. Hodges. Davis, then a county clerk in Kentucky, claimed that her antigay religious beliefs did not allow her to provide the license. A federal judge briefly jailed her for contempt of court, and the couple later sued her for violating their rights. The two men prevailed at trial, and a jury awarded them $100,000 in damages. It is this judgment that Davis now asks the high court to overturn: She argues that she shouldve been allowed to raise the First Amendments free exercise clause as a defense against the couples lawsuit.

Davis lawyers devote almost all of their petition to this topic. Only at the end do they tack on a requestalmost an afterthoughtfor the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell altogether. But, again, the actual legal question in the case is not whether Obergefell was rightly decided; it is whether state officials can wield religious liberty as a shield when they engage in unlawful discrimination.

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The answer to this question is plainly no. Two conservative judges appointed by Donald Trump have already explained that a state official cannot hide behind the First Amendment to justify discrimination when acting as an agent of the government. It is highly doubtful that the court will reconsider that conclusion, which rests on the fundamental principle that the government has no right to infringe on peoples rights.

SCOTUS can take up Davis appeal only if four of the justices vote to hear it. And its difficult to envision four members of the current court agreeing to do so given the open-and-shut failure of Davis main argument. But even if they did, the court would still have no grounds to consider her shoehorned assault on Obergefell itself. Reevaluating that precedent is entirely unnecessary to resolve the real dispute. And as the appeals court pointed out, Davis lawyers actually forfeited their argument against Obergefell by declining to raise it in the district court. Their failure to preserve this issue gives SCOTUS one more reason to ignore it.

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So even if this Supreme Court were eager to put marriage equality in its crosshairs, Davis appeal would be a terrible vehicle for it. But the court doesnt seem to have much of an appetite to kill off Obergefell right now. That assurance may ring hollow in light of Roe v. Wades demise just three years ago. A handful of clues from the conservative supermajority, however, indicate that there are not currently five votes to end marriage equality. Or, perhaps more accurately, there are not five justices who want to eradicate same-sex couples fundamental right to wed.

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At least three members of this supermajority have dropped hints that they do not wish to revisit Obergefell. Just two years after the decision, Chief Justice John Roberts seems to have quietly joined a follow-up ruling affirming its protections for same-sex parents, suggesting that he had made his peace with marriage equality. Justice Brett Kavanaugh has called same-sex marriage a very important right and declared that gay Americans cannot be treated as social outcasts or as inferior in dignity and worth. In his most important opinion about precedent, Justice Neil Gorsuch went out of his way to signal that Americans have reliance interests on their ability to marry. Roberts and Gorsuch, of course, also voted to protect gay employees from workplace discrimination in 2020s Bostock v. Clayton County. And while Kavanaugh dissented from that decision, he did so apologetically, offering a sentimental tribute to gay Americans extraordinary vision, tenacity, and grit. The justice also took pains to note that the death of Roe v. Wade does not threaten or cast doubt on marriage equality.

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The point here is not that these three justices think Obergefell was correct; they almost certainly dont. But it seems safe to conclude that they are not preoccupied by an unrelenting desire to harm gay peopleor that they, at a minimum, understand that overturning Obergefell would be massively unpopular. Like every justice, this trio has an agenda. They know that their court has limited time, resources, and political capital to effectuate it. So they have to prioritize. And overturning marriage equality does not appear to be anywhere close to a top priority. Savvier anti-LGBTQ+ groups, like Alliance Defending Freedom, recognize this fact. Its presumably why these organizations have not directly asked SCOTUS to reverse Obergefell. (Davis is represented by the far smaller and less prestigious Liberty Counsel.)

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Thats not to say that gay rights are safe at this Supreme Court. Far from it: They are under active attack, albeit in a subtler way. In the past several years, the conservative supermajority has weaponized the First Amendment to legalize discrimination against same-sex couples in the marketplace. It has forced public schools to censor LGBTQ+ books and compelled states to fund private schools that discriminate against LGBTQ+ students. Next year, it will probably strike down state bans on LGBTQ+ conversion therapy for minors. Rather than take aim at Obergefell itself, the Republican-appointed justices have settled on curtailing gay rights in the name of religious liberty and free speech. They have also blessed overt discrimination against transgender people, cruelly denying them equal protection under the law. These rulings merit far more attention and scorn than a long-shot bid to take down marriage equality.

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Obergefell is not Roe v. Wade. It did not unite the Republican Party in a tireless crusade to change the law. Indeed, Trump has expressed no interest in ending marriage equality, even as his administration has enacted other anti-LGBTQ+ policies. A couple of sitting justices would likely leap at the opportunity to cast Obergefell into the dustbin of history. But it is pretty clear that they havent yet secured a majority for their mission. And in the unlikely event that they do, Kim Davis case will not be the vehicle they use to eradicate the equal dignity of same-sex couples.
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On Tuesday, we saw some of the earliest fallout from the Supreme Courts decision earlier this summer in United States v. Skrmetti that allowed a Tennessee law that blocks health care for trans minors to go into effect. The new ruling hit neighboring Arkansas, but it actually covers a wide swath of the country, expands on the ruling in Skrmetti, embraces that decisions indifference toward the health and safety of trans children, and inflicts grave harm on numerous families across the Midwest.

In Tuesdays ruling, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit released a 82 decision in Brandt v. Griffin, holding that Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care for minors survives three different challenges to its constitutionality. In part, this en banc ruling followed Skrmetti, in which the Supreme Courts conservative supermajority held that a similar ban does not violate the equal protection clause because it does not classify based on transgender status or sex, thus surviving the minimal evaluation standard of rational basis review. However, in Skrmetti, the court denied a petition by minors and their parents that argued the ban also infringes on parental rights protected under the due process clause. Moreover, no one has argued that the Tennessee ban conflicts with the freedom of speech of health care providers protected under the First Amendment. Now, the highly conservative 8th Circuit went beyond Skrmetti, dismissing those two additional challenges brought by parents and doctors.

The 8th Circuits decision demonstrates a rising distorted constitutional regime. Courts controlled by conservative majorities follow the Supreme Courts supermajority and stray from established analysis and precedents to achieve ideology-driven outcomes. They effectively carve out a new troubling norm: Constitutional rights for me but not for thee.

First, consider the equal protection clause. The Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care patently discriminates against transgender adolescents, vehemently depriving them of medical assistance in handling the difference between their gender identity and the sex assigned to them at birth. That should have subjected the ban to heightened scrutiny, but instead, under the incoherent mess of contradiction and casuistry originally exhibited in Skrmetti, the ban was only evaluated under a rational basis review. Still, Skrmetti arrived at the Supreme Court with minimal facts. By contrast, as Judge Jane Kelly, the only democratic appointee currently on the 8th Circuit, insisted in her dissent, the trial in Brandt offered rich evidence of animus toward transgender people that, according to conventional constitutional analysis, should have failed Arkansas arguments even under forgiving scrutiny.

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Second, the majority in Brandt offers an irregular and partial analysis of parental rights protected for over a century under the due process clause. Dismissing the rights of parents who wish to support their transgender children and find adequate medical care for them, the majority abandons constitutional analysis to favor anti-trans legislation. Instead of recognizing that bans on gender-affirming care recommended to parents by doctors necessarily implicate parental rights and thus must be subject to heightened or strict scrutiny, the majority chooses again, and erroneously, a rational basis review. The only reasoning offered is that parental rights are not unlimited, as if any constitutional right is ever unlimited. All the while, the usual analysis allows states to infringe on parents rights only when their intervention survives heightened or even strict scrutiny, for example, when parentsin contrast to the parents in Brandtneglect or abuse their children.

Significantly, the precedent suggested to support the move is Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, with its assault on the scope of rights recognized under the due process clause. However, Dobbs cannot justify Brandt because parental rights align with rather than deviate from history and tradition; they have been part of our constitutional order from time immemorial. Ask conservative parents and their advocates. They have persistently relied on their parental rights in many contexts, including vaccines, homeschooling, and most recently and increasingly, gender identity issues. Indeed, shortly after Skrmetti, in Mahmoud v. Taylor, the Supreme Court allowed conservative parents to remove their children from the classroom whenever storybooks with LGBTQ characters were used. Perhaps because Mahmoud exhibited ideological partiality, emphasizing the rights of religious parents to control the upbringing of their children, no judge on the 8th Circuit, including the dissent, cared to mention it when the rights of parents of transgender minors were at stake.

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Third, the Brandt decision selectively minimizes the freedom of speech, despite a relentless expansion of the freedom of speech of those who object to LGBTQ equality, such as in 303 Creative v. Elenis. The majority is quick to dismiss the impact of Arkansas ban on doctors who wish to support patients with gender dysphoria. It does so on the same day on which the Supreme Court announced that on Oct. 7, 2025, it will hear oral arguments in Chiles v. Salazara case in which a therapist argues that Colorados ban on conversion therapy violates the freedom of speech because it limits her ability to support her patients.

Finding that the ban at hand only incidentally impacts doctors speech, the 8th Circuit majority states that Arkansas has a compelling interest in protecting the physical and psychological health of minors. The question is whether the Supreme Court supermajority will follow the same logic in Chiles, and find that Colorado has at least a similar compelling interest in protecting minors from the known harms of conversion therapy.

Reading Brandt with the recent developments at the Supreme Court in mind, one can only wonder if all the constitutional rights it refuses to recognize are strictly reserved for conservatives. Given the latest potential challenge to marriage equality, this is a particularly devastating possibility.
Boston Red Sox's Roman Anthony (19) steals second base as Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena reaches for the throw during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Houston Astros starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti throws against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Dustin May throws against the Houston Astros during the fifth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Carlos Narvaez watches his three-run home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Alex Bregman celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Alex Bregman celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Roman Anthony (19) steals second base as Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena reaches for the throw during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Houston Astros starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti throws against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Dustin May throws against the Houston Astros during the fifth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Carlos Narvaez watches his three-run home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Boston Red Sox's Alex Bregman celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

HOUSTON (AP)  Alex Bregman homered against his former team for a second straight game and Carlos Narvaez added a three-run shot to lead the Boston Red Sox to a 14-1 win over the Houston Astros on Tuesday night.

Dustin May (7-8) scattered five singles across six scoreless and struck out eight in his second start since a trade from the Dodgers.

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The loss drops the Astros into a tie with Seattle for the AL West lead after the Mariners beat the Orioles 1-0 for their eighth consecutive win Tuesday.

Bregman, who is playing in Houston as a visitor for the first time this week, hit another two-run home run Tuesday night after hitting one in his first at-bat in Monday nights 7-6 loss. He spent his first nine seasons with the Astros before signing with the Red Sox this offseason.

His homer came after Narvaez slugged a three-run shot as Boston scored five runs with two outs in the sixth to push the lead to 7-0.

Houston starter Spencer Arrighetti (1-3) struggled with command in his second start since missing four months with a broken right thumb. He allowed just one hit and two runs, but walked a career-high five in five innings.

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The bases were loaded with one out in the third when Arrighetti plunked Trevor Story on the hand to make it 1-0. The Red Sox made it 2-0 when Roman Anthony, who hit a solo homer in the eighth, scored on a sacrifice fly by Masataka Yoshida.

Wilyer Abreu hit an RBI double in the seventh and a two-run double in Bostons four-run eighth that made it 12-0.

The Red Sox added two runs in the ninth with outfielder Chas McCormick on the mound.

Key moment

The home run by Narvaez that padded the lead in the sixth inning.

Key stat

Bregman's home run Tuesday was his 96th in the regular season at Daikin Park.

Up next

Houston RHP Hunter Brown (9-5, 2.51 ERA) opposes RHP Walker Buehler (7-6, 5.40) in the series finale Wednesday night.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/china-forces-us-destroyer-out-of-territorial-waters-near-scarborough-shoal-1122604699.html

China Forces US Destroyer Out of Territorial Waters Near Scarborough Shoal

China Forces US Destroyer Out of Territorial Waters Near Scarborough Shoal

Sputnik International

The Chinese military drove a US destroyer away from the disputed island of Scarborough Shoal (Huangyan) on Wednesday, the China Central Television (CCTV) channel reported, citing the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

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The USS Higgins "illegally entered the territorial waters of China off the island of Huangyan without the permission of the Chinese authorities," CCTV reported, citing PLA. The PLA's Southern Command said that the actions of the US military seriously infringed on China's sovereignty and security, undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea, and violated international law and basic norms of international relations. China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and other nations lay rival claims to parts of the South China Sea, where significant hydrocarbon reserves have been discovered. The disputes concern the Paracel Islands, the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal, which are located at the crossroads of Indian and Pacific Ocean shipping routes and are rich in oil and gas. The situation is further complicated by the presence of US warships, which are accused by China of violating international law and undermining sovereignty and security. The UNited States argues that its navy will sail wherever international law allows.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/us-china-relations-will-define-the-21st-century--rubio-1122602833.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/iranian-foreign-minister-calls-western-sanctions-crime-against-humanity-1122604576.html

Iranian Foreign Minister Calls Western Sanctions Crime Against Humanity

Iranian Foreign Minister Calls Western Sanctions Crime Against Humanity

Sputnik International

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that sanctions imposed by Washington and its allies against other nations should be recognized as crimes against humanity.

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"High time for inhumane sanctions imposed by the US and its accomplices to be recognized as crimes against humanity. Targeted nations should coordinate efforts to forge unified and collective response," Araqchi said on X. Western countries have long claimed that sanctions are a bloodless alternative to war, the diplomat said. A new study by The Lancet medical weekly disputes that allegation. On July 31, the US Treasury Department unveiled its largest package of sanctions against Iran to date. The new sanctions target more than 50 individuals and legal entities associated with Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the son of Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to the Iranian president.

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Kim Jong-un to Putin: North Korea Will Unwaveringly Support All Decisions of Russias Leadership

Kim Jong-un to Putin: North Korea Will Unwaveringly Support All Decisions of Russias Leadership

Sputnik International

North Korea will always remain faithful to the spirit of the DPRK-Russia treaty, Kim Jong Un assured Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

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Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin exchanged views on issues of mutual concern, praising the deepening cooperation under the DPRK-Russia Strategic Partnership Agreement, according to KCNA.As the North Korean leader and the Russian president reaffirmed their commitment to further developing ties, Kim Jong Un emphasized that his country will unwaveringly support all decisions made by the Russian leadership. Kim Jong-un expressed heartfelt thanks to Vladimir Putin for warmly congratulating the North Korean people on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation. He stated that as the Korean people mark the 80th anniversary of their liberation on August 15, they will honor the fallen Soviet soldiers who gave their lives for Koreas freedom, remembering with deep respect the heroic acts of the Red Armys officers and soldiers 80 years ago as the ultimate example of true internationalism. Russian President Vladimir Putin once again expressed deep gratitude for North Koreas support, applauding the bravery, heroism, and self-sacrifice of the Korean Peoples Army in liberating Russias Kursk region from Ukrainian attack. The leaders of both countries lauded the deepening of their cooperative ties across all sectors, emphasizing that they are committed to ramping up collaboration going forward.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250713/kim-jong-un-confirms-north-koreas-support-for-russias-measures-to-resolve-ukraine-crisis-1122432207.html

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kim jong un, kim jong un and vladimir putin phone conversation, russia-north korea ties, resolve ukraine crisis, pyongyang's readiness to support russia
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/media-as-weapon-western-propaganda-machines-complicity-in-chuguyev-false-flag-plot-1122605159.html

Media as Weapon: Western Propaganda Machines Complicity in Chuguyev False Flag Plot

Media as Weapon: Western Propaganda Machines Complicity in Chuguyev False Flag Plot

Sputnik International

The same mainstream outlets that proved instrumental in perpetuating the Russiagate narrative have demonstrated a clear opposition to any meaningful rapprochement with Russia, with their deployment to cover a planned provocation in Chuguyev to sabotage the Putin-Trump summit a reminder of their deleterious role, says analyst Adriel Kasonta.

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analysis

volodymyr zelensky

vladimir putin

russia

ukraine

false flag

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Given this pattern, it would not be surprising to witness a provocation reminiscent of the Bucha incident, which could be swiftly reported by outlets aligned with the Zelensky government, Kasonta, a former chairman of the Bow Groups International Affairs Committee, said, commenting on Zelenskys desperate resistance to ending the conflict.A Bucha-like incident in Chuguyev involving the false flag targeting of a hospital or residential neighborhood would serve to postpone what many see as an inevitable resolution: lasting peace in Ukraine and an end to hostilities between two nations with deep historical and cultural ties, the analyst said.Russia's Ministry of Defense says it has intelligence from multiple sources on a plot involving a false flag attack on a hospital or dense urban area in the city of Chuguyev, Kharkov region, to be blamed on Russia, and designed to sabotage Friday's highly anticipated summit in Alaska between Presidents Putin and Trump."For this purpose, on Monday, August 11, the Security Service of Ukraine transported a group of foreign media journalists by car to the city of Chuguyev in the Kharkov region, under the pretext of 'preparing a series of reports on residents of the city in the frontline zone,'" the MoD said in a statement.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250812/ukraine-prepares-false-flag-attack-ahead-of-ptin-trump-alaska-summit---russian-mod-1122602269.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/chuguyev-false-flag-plans-exposed-ukraine-and-natos-playbook-of-staged-attacks-blamed-on-russia-1122604836.html

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what are false flags, is ukraine planning a false flag, will ukraine sabotage putin-trump meeting
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/ukraine-deploys-azov-battalion-reserves-to-krasnoarmeysk-ahead-of-us-russia-summit-1122604318.html

Ukraine Deploys Azov Battalion Reserves to Krasnoarmeysk Ahead of US-Russia Summit

Ukraine Deploys Azov Battalion Reserves to Krasnoarmeysk Ahead of US-Russia Summit

Sputnik International

Ukraine Deploys Azov Battalion Reserves to Krasnoarmeysk Ahead of US-Russia Summit

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russia's special operation in ukraine

denis pushilin

donald trump

volodymyr zelensky

russia

alaska

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dpr

kremlin

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"The Krasnoarmeysk direction is also now on everyone's lips. We see there now, let's say, especially on the eve of the meeting in Alaska, special attention is being paid to this. The enemy is transferring additional forces, transferring units of Azov," Pushilin told the Soloviev Live show. The front line in the DPR is under full control of Russian armed forces, Pushilin said. The Kremlin and the White House announced last week that Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump would meet in Alaska on August 15. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt said that the summit would take place in Anchorage. Commenting on the upcoming summit, Volodymyr Zelensky said that he would not make territorial concessions.* terrorist organization banned in Russia

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/doomed-zelensky-desperate-to-sabotage-putin-trump-summit--expert-1122603781.html

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ukraine deploys azov, us-russia summit, battalion reserves
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/ukraine-open-to-territory-talks-with-contact-line-as-starting-point--merz-1122606167.html

Ukraine Open to Territory Talks With Contact Line as Starting Point  Merz

Ukraine Open to Territory Talks With Contact Line as Starting Point  Merz

Sputnik International

Ukraine is ready for negotiations on territorial issues, and the so-called "contact line" should become the starting point, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday.

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friedrich merz

volodymyr zelensky

donald trump

ukraine

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"Ukraine is ready for negotiations on territorial issues, but the so-called 'contact line' should be the starting point," Merz said at a joint press conference with Zelensky. At the same time, the legal recognition of territories under Russian control is not subject to discussion, the chancellor added.Earlier in the day, Merz organized an online meeting on the Ukrainian issue in an attempt to reach agreement on the West's position ahead of the upcoming talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska. Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin to participate in the meeting. First, a video conference between several European leaders was held. The meeting, which also included European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, was followed by an online conversation between Trump, European leaders and Zelensky.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/us-urges-ukraine-to-adopt-realistic-combat-strategy-ahead-of-putin-trump-summit-1122604452.html

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ukraine open to territory talks, german chancellor friedrich merz, negotiations on territorial issues
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/us-appeals-court-grants-doge-access-to-confidential-federal-data--reports-1122604171.html

US Appeals Court Grants DOGE Access to Confidential Federal Data  Reports

US Appeals Court Grants DOGE Access to Confidential Federal Data  Reports

Sputnik International

A US court of appeals in Virginia has cleared the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to access confidential data held by two federal departments and one federal agency, The Washington Post reported on Wednesday, citing the court's ruling.

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americans

donald trump

virginia

treasury department

data

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The Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit ruled that DOGE should be allowed to obtain confidential data from the Treasury Department, the Education Department, and the Office of Personnel Management, rejecting concerns that such access violates privacy laws, the newspaper reported, citing a divided decision by the court's panel. This follows the US Supreme Court's June decision to allow DOGE to use Americans' confidential Social Security data. In April, media reported that DOGE had been granted access to secure government networks containing information about US nuclear weapons. DOGE was established by President Donald Trump to "reduce wasteful spending and restructure federal agencies." House Speaker Mike Johnson said in February that DOGE had uncovered "shocking" unauthorized government expenditures.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250727/doge-vows-to-deploy-ai-to-axe-50-of-federal-regulations---reports-1122496636.html

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us appeals court, doge access to confidential federal data, confidential data
https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/us-urges-ukraine-to-adopt-realistic-combat-strategy-ahead-of-putin-trump-summit-1122604452.html

US Urges Ukraine to Adopt Realistic Combat Strategy Ahead of Putin-Trump Summit

US Urges Ukraine to Adopt Realistic Combat Strategy Ahead of Putin-Trump Summit

Sputnik International

US officials have urged Ukraine to be more realistic about its combat capabilities ahead of the upcoming talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Politico reported, citing a government source.

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world

donald trump

us

vladimir putin

volodymyr zelensky

russia

ukraine

alaska

kremlin

white house

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The Trump administration asked the Ukrainians to be pragmatic and "realistic in their assessment of what they can do with the combat power that they have," a US official told an American newspaper. The Kremlin and the White House announced that Putin and Trump would meet in Alaska on August 15. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt said that the summit would take place in Anchorage. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said that during his visit to Russia, Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff had mentioned holding a trilateral meeting between Putin, Trump, and Volodymyr Zelensky, but Russia suggested that they focus on preparations for a bilateral summit. Commenting on the upcoming Russia-US summit, Zelensky said that he would not make territorial concessions.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20250812/anchorage-summit-confirmed-trump-putin-to-discuss-peace-and-partnership-1122602140.html

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us urges ukraine, combat strategy, putin-trump summit, russian president vladimir putin and us president donald trump
By Fanny Potkin, Karen Freifeld and Jun Yuan Yong

SINGAPORE/NEW YORK (Reuters) -U.S. authorities have secretly placed location tracking devices in targeted shipments of advanced chips they see as being at high risk of illegal diversion to China, according to two people with direct knowledge of the previously unreported law enforcement tactic.

The measures aim to detect AI chips being diverted to destinations which are under U.S. export restrictions, and apply only to select shipments under investigation, the people said.

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They show the lengths to which the U.S. has gone to enforce its chip export restrictions on China, even as the Trump administration has sought to relax some curbs on Chinese access to advanced American semiconductors.

The trackers can help build cases against people and companies who profit from violating U.S. export controls, said the people, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue.

Location trackers are a decades-old investigative tool used by U.S. law enforcement agencies to track products subject to export restrictions, such as airplane parts. They have been used to combat the illegal diversion of semiconductors in recent years, one source said.

Five other people actively involved in the AI server supply chain say they are aware of the use of the trackers in shipments of servers from manufacturers such as Dell and Super Micro, which include chips from Nvidia and AMD.

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Those people said the trackers are typically hidden in the packaging of the server shipments. They did not know which parties were involved in installing them and where along the shipping route they were inserted.

Reuters was not able to determine how often the trackers have been used in chip-related investigations or when U.S. authorities started using them to investigate chip smuggling. The U.S. started restricting the sale of advanced chips by Nvidia, AMD and other manufacturers to China in 2022.

In one 2024 case described by two of the people involved in the server supply chain, a shipment of Dell servers with Nvidia chips included both large trackers on the shipping boxes and smaller, more discreet devices hidden inside the packaging  and even within the servers themselves.

A third person said they had seen images and videos of trackers being removed by other chip resellers from Dell and Super Micro servers. The person said some of the larger trackers were roughly the size of a smartphone.

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The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, which oversees export controls and enforcement, is typically involved, and Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation may take part too, said the sources.

The HSI and FBI both declined to comment. The Commerce Department did not respond to requests for comment.

The Chinese foreign ministry said it was not aware of the matter.

Super Micro said in a statement that it does not disclose its security practices and policies in place to protect our worldwide operations, partners, and customers. It declined to comment on any tracking actions by U.S. authorities.

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Dell said it is not aware of a U.S. Government initiative to place trackers in its product shipments.

Nvidia said, "We don't install secret tracking devices in our products."

AMD did not answer a request for comment.

CHIP RESTRICTIONS

The United States, which dominates the global AI chip supply chain, has sought to limit exports of chips and other technology to China in recent years to restrain its military modernization. It has also restricted the sale of chips to Russia to undercut war efforts against Ukraine.

The White House and both houses of Congress have proposed requiring U.S. chip firms to include location verification technology with their chips to prevent them from being diverted to countries where U.S. export regulations restrict sales.

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China has slammed the U.S. exports curbs as part of a campaign to suppress its rise and criticized the location tracking proposal. Last month, China's powerful cyberspace regulator summoned Nvidia to a meeting to express its concerns over the risks of its chips containing "backdoors" that would allow remote access or control, which the company has strongly denied.

In January, Reuters reported the U.S. had traced organized AI chip smuggling to China via countries such as Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE  but it is unclear if tracking devices were involved.

The use of trackers by U.S. law enforcement goes back decades. In 1985, Hughes Aircraft shipped equipment subject to U.S. export controls, according to a court decision reviewed by Reuters. Executing a search warrant, the U.S. Customs Service intercepted the crate at a Houston airport and installed a tracking device, the decision noted.

U.S. export enforcement agents sometimes install trackers after getting administrative approval. Other times they get a judge to issue a warrant authorizing use of the device, one source said. With a warrant, it is easier to use the information as evidence in a criminal case.

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A company may be told about the tracker, if it is not a subject of the investigation, and may consent to the governments installation of the trackers, the source added. But the devices can be installed without their knowledge.

People involved in diverting export-controlled chip and server shipments to China said they were aware of the devices.

Two of the supply chain sources, who are China-based resellers of export-controlled chips, said they regularly took care to inspect diverted shipments of AI chip servers for the trackers due to the risks of the devices being embedded.

An affidavit filed with a U.S Department of Justice complaint regarding the arrests of two Chinese nationals charged with illegally shipping tens of millions of dollars' worth of AI chips to China earlier this month describes one co-conspirator instructing another to check for trackers on Quanta H200 servers, which contain Nvidia chips.

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It said the English-language text was sent by a co-conspirator, whose name was redacted, to one of the defendants, Yang Shiwei.

Pay attention to see if there is a tracker on it, you must look for it carefully," said the person, who went on to call the Trump administration by an obscenity. "Who knows what they will do."

(Reporting by Fanny Potkin and Jun Yuan Yong in Singapore, Karen Freifeld in New York; Additional reporting by China newsroom; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
1 min read

Wipro announced the successful completion of its generative AI agent-building initiative with Google Cloud, delivering 200 production-ready AI agents across Healthcare, Banking, Insurance, Retail, Manufacturing, and IT industries. This is another step in the long-standing collaboration between Wipro and Google, enabling joint clients to tap into the full potential of AI agents.

Debashish Ghosh, Global Head, Google Cloud Ecosystem, Wipro Limited, said, This milestone highlights the depth of innovation possible on a shared vision. By leveraging client proximity through our delivery teams, we have been able to surface real customer challengesenabling us to identify high-impact AI agent use-cases that drive meaningful innovation. Wipros industry expertise and engineering scale, combined with Google Clouds AI leadership, have resulted in tangible solutions that are already making a difference for enterprise customers.

The initiative with Google is focused on developing intelligent agents that enhance customer experience, improve business processes across industries, and unlock new opportunities for innovation. These agents are designed to help enterprises fast-track digital transformation using Google Clouds advanced AI technologies, including Gemini, the Vertex AI platform. These production-ready agents, now available through the Google Cloud Marketplace, allow Wipro and Google to drive broader consumption and adoption of these solutions.

Top Breaking News Of The Day

Victor Morales, Vice President of Global System Integrators Partnerships, Google Cloud, said, Wipro is demonstrating how Googles Gemini models and Vertex AI can be utilized to build powerful, industry-specific agents that transform everyday work across industries. These production-grade AI agents will help our joint customers solve complex challenges and accelerate their business transformation at scale.

The production-ready agents are also currently available to clients at Wipros Gemini Experience Zone. This immersive environment allows clients to interact with real-world use cases and explore how generative AI can be applied across industry-specific workflows, helping Wipro uncover additional use cases grounded in real business challenges.
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:

On a sunny day in San Francisco, along the city's waterfront, families dived into the wacky world of artificial intelligence inside the Exploratorium museum.

Visitors made shadow puppets for AI to identify, used AI to generate songs, asked chatbots questions and faced off with AI in a game in which players tried to draw images that only humans would recognize. A giant robot hand moved around and people peered into a video game chip.

They jotted down their hopes and worries about AI on cards displayed in the museum. Hope: AI will cure cancer. Worry: People will rely on AI to the point they can't think for themselves.

"It sort of breaks down those guardrails, those big walls that people have put up around AI, and allows them to have a conversation with somebody else," said Doug Thistlewolf, who manages exhibit development at the Exploratorium.

Art. Office Space. Billboards. Protests. The AI craze has intensified in San Francisco, spreading through work and social life in what some have described as a new gold rush. The AI boom, coupled with the election of new Mayor Daniel Lurie, has also infused the city with optimismtinged with anxiety. Some worry about the city's high cost of living, and whether AI will replace workers as tech layoffs continue.

For years, Silicon Valley has been at the center of innovation, with some of the world's valuable tech companies, such as Meta, Google, Apple and Nvidia, locating their massive headquarters south of San Francisco. AI's rise, though, has shone a bright spotlight on San Francisco, home to multibillion-dollar companies such as OpenAI, Scale AI, Anthropic, Perplexity and Databricks.

AI has long played a big role in consumer technology, helping to recommend social media posts, translate languages and power virtual assistants. But the popularity of OpenAI's ChatGPTa chatbot that can generate text, images and codeset off a fierce race to propel technology that touches industries from media to health care.

Companies are battling it out for talent, offering lucrative compensation to recruit top researchers and leaders, while investments in AI companies have surged.

In the first half of 2025, venture capital funding for AI companies in the San Francisco Metro area surpassed $29 billionmore than double the amount during the same period in 2022, data from PitchBook shows. As of Aug. 5, VC deals for AI startups in the area, which includes San Francisco, Oakland and Fremont, made up 46.6% of funding for U.S. AI companies this year.

Exactly how this frenzy will shape the future of San Francisco, home to cable cars and robotaxis, remains to be seen. Ask ChatGPT what SF will look like in 10 years and it generates an image of the city's skyline with futuristic architecture and flying saucers next to the Golden Gate Bridge.

AI has been a "bright spot" in the city's economy, helping San Francisco to recover after retailers, office workers and some companies such as X (formerly Twitter) left the downtown area during and after the pandemic as remote work picked up.

"The economic impact is [AI companies] take more office space, they pay more taxes, they hire more people," said Ted Egan, chief economist of the city and county of San Francisco.

Over the past five years, AI-related companies have leased more than 5 million square feet of San Francisco office space and the amount is projected to grow, according to CBRE, a real estate service and investment firm. The city's office vacancy rate of 35.8% in the first quarter would be cut in half if these companies take up 16 million square feet of office space by 2030.

San Francisco resident Vijay Karunamurthy has seen the city's boom and bust cycles unfold over the last 25 years while working at startups and tech giants such as Google and Apple.

In 2000, when he moved from Chicago to San Francisco for an engineering job at a data startup, he saw major businesses such as Pets.com collapse during the dot-com crash. Fueled by social media's popularity, the city's tech sector came roaring back only to take a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now the city is ascending yet again. Ambitious entrepreneurs, old and new, are advancing powerful artificial intelligence tools that could transform lives.

"That amount of energy being concentrated in San Francisco has just been huge for the city," said Karunamurthy, 46, the former field chief technology officer at Scale AI, a data-labeling startup. "It means every single night there are AI events, and if you go to a coffee shop, you'll run into people working on AI."

Still, there are plenty of AI skeptics. In late July, outside of OpenAI's headquarters in Mission Bay, a small group of protesters, including a person dressed up as a robot, held up signs that said "AI will kill us all" and "AI steals your work to steal your jobs."

Generative AI's ubiquity has forced educators to rethink what and how they teach students in the classrooms.

Arno Puder, professor and chair of San Francisco State University's computer science department, said generative AI represents a historic "paradigm shift."

The longtime San Francisco resident is equally excited, but also a little scared, about how it will affect labor. Over the last two years, he's seen student enrollment in computer science at the university drop amid tech layoffs and generative AI's rise. As coding assistants reshape computer science jobs, the university launched a new undergraduate certificate in generative AI for the fall of 2026.

"Generative AI is a different beast," Puder said. "That does make me worry a little bit, but if you ask me for a prediction on what services or what the world's going to look like in a few years from now, I don't know."

AI's rise has inspired the creation of new spaces throughout San Francisco where people can discuss technology's benefits and risks.

Thistlewolf said creating the AI exhibit at the Exploratorium involved talking to workers and researchers from tech companies and universities. The exhibit, which runs through mid-September, took roughly a year and a half to develop.

Backed by Anthropic, the San Francisco company that developed the AI chatbot Claude, the exhibit aims to educate people about AI but doesn't shy away from the debate surrounding technology.

San Francisco resident Martha Chesley, 77, came to the exhibit with her grandchildren. Living in San Francisco for 50 years, Chesley sees potential benefits from AI companies coming to the city.

"If it brings people and money, it's good for the city because right now we have a lot of closed storefronts," she said. "Maybe there would be more money also for housing being built."

Throughout the city, AI startups are broadcasting their mission loudly on billboards and ads displayed at bus stops and train stations. Messages include "Stop Hiring Humans. To Write Cold Emails" and "Droids ship software while you touch grass."

AI ads could also be spotted in the Mission district, a neighborhood deeply rooted in Latino culture and history. The area, filled with popular taquerias, colorful murals and a park with a view of the downtown skyline, has struggled with homelessness like other parts of the city.

At a bus stop on 16th Street, an ad from AI startup Outset struck a positive tone: "Listen to humans. Don't replace them."

Founded in downtown San Francisco in 2022, Outset created an AI interviewer so researchers could quickly gather feedback from more people to better understand customer needs and improve products.

The company's 36-year-old chief executive, Aaron Cannon, said before the rise of ChatGPT, he and his co-founder experimented with AI systems that can generate and understand human language and saw its potential.

"I don't think either of us could have told you it was going to absolutely take over the world," he said. The San Francisco resident said the city's talent pool also makes it an attractive location for startups. He declined to disclose its finances but said the company, which employs 15 and counts Microsoft among its clients, is "growing fast."

Throughout San Francisco, founders and real estate companies have dubbed certain areas as AI hubs.

Hayes Valley, a neighborhood with Victorian houses, boutique shops and trendy restaurants, bears the nickname "Cerebral Valley," a nod to the hacker houses and AI communities that popped up in the area.

Jamestown, a real estate and investment company, markets the Northern Waterfront as an emerging AI hub after leasing more than 43,000 square feet of office space to AI companies. Some of the startups work on AI loan servicing or AI-powered lip-syncing technology.

Located near public transportation, water and greenery, the fresh air and serene nature of the area has attracted AI entrepreneurs that want to collaborate in person, said Michael Phillips, principal and chairman of Jamestown.

"If you're working on these fast-to-market, highly competitive products," he said, "you really need to be together."

2025 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Bio-inspired predictive slip control for robot manipulation. Credit: Nazari et al

To effectively tackle a variety of real-world tasks, robots should be able to reliably grasp objects of different shapes, textures and sizes, without dropping them in undesired locations. Conventional approaches to enhancing the ability of robots to grasp objects work by tightening the grip of a robotic hand to prevent objects from slipping.

Researchers at the University of Lincoln, Toshiba Europe's Cambridge Research Laboratory, the University of Surrey, Arizona State University and KAIST recently introduced alternative computational strategies for preventing the slip of objects grasped by a robotic hand, which works by modulating the trajectories that a robotic hand follows while performing manipulative movements. Their approach, consisting of a robotic controller and a new bio-inspired predictive trajectory modulation strategy, was presented in a paper published in Nature Machine Intelligence.

"The inspiration for this paper came from a very human experience," Amir Ghalamzan, senior author of the paper, told Tech Xplore.

"When you carry a fragile or slippery object and feel it beginning to slip, you don't just squeeze harder. Instead, you subtly adjust your movementsslowing down, tilting, or repositioning your handto keep hold of it. Robots, however, have historically just relied on increasing grip force to prevent slipping, which doesn't always work and can even damage delicate objects. We aimed to investigate whether we could train robots to behave more like humans in these scenarios."

The main objective of the recent study by Ghalamzan and his colleagues was to develop a controller that can predict when an object might slip from a robot's grasp and adjust its movements accordingly to prevent it from slipping, similarly to how humans might adjust their movements when handling objects. The controller they developed relies on a bio-inspired trajectory modulation strategy that complements conventional techniques to modulate the force of a robot's grip, enabling more dexterous manipulation strategies.

Figure illustrating the predictive control architecture in humans based on the internal forward models that are learnt in the cerebellum of the human brain, as a design motivation for our proposed proactive controller. The forward model predicts future sensory states based on the current state and a copy of potential motor commands (efference copy) to enable predictive movements without relying on delayed sensory feedback. The internal representation in the cerebellum is learnt via neuronal connections with the sensory and motor cortices in the cerebral cortex. Credit: Nazari et al.

"Our approach mimics how humans use internal models to interact with the world," explained Ghalamzan. "Just as the human brain continuously predicts the outcomes of our actionslike whether a glass might slip if we move too fastwe built a data-driven internal model, or 'world model,' that allows a robot to predict the future tactile sensations it will experience. These predictions are then used to detect slip instances and adjust movements in such a way that no slip instance will occur."

The team's controller allows robots to slow down, change direction and adapt to the position and orientation of their hands in real-time, instead of simply squeezing harder on objects to prevent them from slipping. This alternative strategy for securing objects by altering a robot's movements could help to reduce the risk that fragile objects will break when a robot is handling them. The trajectory modulation approach also works in instances where the force of a robot's grip cannot be altered, enabling more fluid and smarter interactions with a broad range of objects.

"Our study presents two key breakthroughs," said Ghalamzan. "The first is a motion-based slip controller that is the first of its kind. This strategy complements grip-force-based control and is especially valuable when increasing grip force isn't feasiblesuch as with fragile objects, wet or slippery surfaces, or hardware that doesn't support dynamic grip control.

"The second is a predictive controller powered by a learned tactile forward model (i.e., world model), which enables robots to forecast slip based on their planned actions."

The newly developed controller was used to plan the motions of a robotic gripper and tested in dynamic, unstructured environments. Notably, it was found to significantly improve the stability of a robot's grasp in some cases, outperforming conventional controllers that work by solely adapting the force of a robot's grip.

"Embedding such a model into a predictive control loop has traditionally been too computationally demanding," said Ghalamzan. "Our study shows that it's not only feasible, but also effective."

The recent work by this team of researchers could contribute to the advancement of robotic systems, enabling them to safely handle various physical and potentially also social interactions utilizing a world model. This might allow robots, for instance, to handle different objects in a wide range of real-world settings, including household environments, manufacturing sites and health care facilities.

"We are actively working to make our predictive controller faster and more efficient, so it can be deployed in even more demanding real-time settings," added Ghalamzan. "This includes exploring different architectural and algorithmic techniques to reduce computational overhead."

As part of their next studies, the researchers are also expanding their system to support more advanced and complex object manipulation tasks, including the handling of deformable objects or items that need to be manipulated with two hands. Eventually, they also plan to combine their approach with computer vision algorithms, which would allow their approach to plan trajectories for robots based on both tactile and visual information.

"Another important direction is improving the verifiability and explainability of these learned models," added Ghalamzan. "As we move toward more intelligent and autonomous systems, it's critical that humans can understand and trust how robots make decisions. Our long-term vision is to develop predictive controllers that are not only effective but also transparent and safe for deployment in the real world."

Written for you by our author Ingrid Fadelli, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis 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: Kiyanoush Nazari et al, Bioinspired trajectory modulation for effective slip control in robot manipulation, Nature Machine Intelligence (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s42256-025-01062-2. Journal information: Nature Machine Intelligence

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SIGNED AND SEALED: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and John Ardill, vice-president of Global Exploration at ExxonMobil, display the signed agreement between the Government and ExxonMobil at the Diplomatic Centre in Port of Spain yesterday. Looking on, from left, are Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Dr Roodal Moonilal and Minister in the Energy Ministry Ernesto Kesar.

Photo: JERMAINE CRUICKSHANK
SIXTY-YEAR-OLD David Greeves died after he attempted to save his home which caught fire whil
PHOENIX  Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is trying to overturn decades of settled water law, the lawyer for a group of farmers, businesses and cities told a judge in a bid to join the court fight against the actions of the states top prosecutor.

Attorney Brad Pew acknowledged Tuesday that the attorney general, to this point, has filed suit against only Fondomonte LLC, with Mayes accusing it of creating a public nuisance because of the amount of groundwater it is withdrawing to grow alfalfa in western Arizona. The result, the attorney general argues, is that the company, a subsidiary of a Saudi dairy Alamari, is harming other nearby landowners.

But Pew told Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Blanchard that what Mayes is doing is really a wholesale attack on rural groundwater users.

This case ... is an open attempt to utilize the court system to disrupt long-standing statutory law governing groundwater use in Arizona, he said.

Pew contends  and Mayes does not disagree  that nothing farmers are doing actually violates state water law. And the attorney general admitted she has filed her nuisance lawsuit because the Legislature has failed to enact regulations and limits on pumping in rural Arizona.

What that means, he said, is that the outcome of her unique lawsuit against Fondomonte could set a new legal precedent, one that would affect members of the Arizona Farm and Ranch Group Coalition which represents not just farmers, ranchers and cattle feeders but also irrigation districts and cities like Holbook, Show Low and Winslow that pump  and rely on  groundwater.

That contention is being backed by Briana Campbell who represents Fondomonte. She wants Pews clients on her side when the case goes to trial.

And Campbell told Blanchard this legal fight is not just about alfalfa, saying that there are other crops grown in Arizona like cotton, that use more water, all of which could be affected by the outcome of this lawsuit.

If Fondomonte, acting within the law, can be held as a public nuisance by the state of Arizona through the usurping of the Legislature, then so can every other farmer in Arizona, Campbell said. And she told Blanchard those other operations  the ones Pew represents  also are entitled to be in court to argue that there is no legal basis for what Mayes is trying to do.

In the lawsuit, Mayes contends that Fondomonte has created a public nuisance by pumping so much water it has dried up nearby wells and already resulted in subsidence of the land around Vicksburg in La Paz County. It also says thats just the beginning, with the damage threatening sediment buildup that reduces water quality and damages appliance, pumps and pipes.

Only thing is, Mayes acknowledged, none of that pumping actually violates state water laws.

There are portions of the state that are within active management areas where pumping of groundwater is regulated.

Pretty much everywhere else  including where Fondomonte operates  is ungoverned, meaning that those on the property have the right to grow what they want and, specifically, pump as much water as they need for those crops. In fact, Arizona law says outside these AMAs, property owners can withdraw and use as much groundwater that they need for reasonable and beneficial use.

So Mayes is basing her case on that public nuisance theory, one that has never been tested in Arizona in this kind of claim. And Pew told Blanchard that if she is able to get a ruling in her favor, that will give her free rein to be able to go after his other clients who he says  and Mayes does not dispute  are not violating any of the statutes that govern water use in rural areas.

This case is, for practical purposes, an attempt to nullify or work around long-standing statutory protections for groundwater users under the Groundwater Management Act, he said.

Mayes already has admitted that if she is successful in using public nuisance laws against Fondomonte that she could use it to go after other large corporate farms operating in areas without pumping restrictions. And she already has her next target in mind.

Cochise County is being seriously damaged by the Riverview Dairy, she said, a farm operating in the Willcox Basin when she filed the 2024 lawsuit against Fondomonte. The evidence of damage is just as strong, if not potentially stronger, than here.

The lawsuit came after discussions at the Capitol about imposing new rules on pumping in rural areas broke down amid disputes over what regulations are appropriate. And Mayes blames the problem here on legislative failure to address a water crisis with catastrophic effects on the groundwater level in the Ranegras Basin.

That failure, she said, was the reason Fondomonte came here to grow alfalfa to feed dairy cattle in Saudi Arabia, where farming of green fodder has been banned since 2018.

Fondomonte is taking advantage of Arizonas failure to protect its precious groundwater resources, Mayes said.

So that failure to tighten water laws, she said, left her with the public nuisance theory.

Arizona law is clear on this point: No company has the right to endanger an entire communitys health and safety for its own gain, Mayes said when she filed suit.

Arizonas nuisance law has two methods of enforcement.

One makes it a Class 2 felony to maintain a public nuisance. But with the defendant being a limited liability company, jail time is off the table. That leaves only a fine of $750 that would make no difference in a case like this.

The other, though, allows her office to ask a court to enjoin the activity. That is precisely the order she wants here as well as a requirement for Fondomonte to set up an abatement fund to reimburse others who have been affected.

Pew said he wants to make the case that Mayes is not entitled to make an end-run around existing water law, not just when it involves Fondomonte but when what she is arguing affects other farmers, ranchers and cities.

Groundwater users, including my clients, have dedicated substantial resources to developing groundwater resources in reliance on the Groundwater Management Act, he told Blanchard.

The Arizona attorney general brought this lawsuit because it perceives a legislative failure in how the Arizona Groundwater Management Act regulates rural groundwater use, Pew said. That should be a legislative debate, not a judicial debate.

For the moment, though, Mayes wants to keep the legal arguments limited to Fondomonte, saying there is clear evidence of the effects of the companys operations.

Operating in the Ranegras Basin since 2014, she said the company has multiple wells, each capable of pumping up to 4,000 gallons of water per minute. She said in 2023 alone, Fondomonte used about 31,196 acre-feet of groundwater within the basin. That is considered enough to serve about 93,000 single-family homes.

But the attorney general said there are more immediate and visible consequences.

Mayes said a well less than a mile from Fondomontes properties went dry about five years ago. And in late 2017, the same happened to a well for the Friendship Baptist Church about 1.8 miles away.

The land is literally sinking in La Paz County with as much as 9.8 inches of subsidence documented in the immediate vicinity of Fondomontes farms, she said.

All this, said Mayes, is enough to fit within the legal definition of a public nuisance, even if the company is not violating any other laws.

Blanchard promised a ruling in a few days on whether Pews clients will get to participate in the lawsuit. But whatever he rules, no date has yet been set to hear the arguments about whether Mayes has the right to use the nuisance laws to curtail groundwater pumping.
WASHINGTON  Mexico has expelled 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States in the latest major deal with the Trump administration as American authorities ratchet up pressure on criminal networks sending drugs across the border, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

The cartel leaders and other prominent figures were being flown from Mexico to the U.S. on Tuesday, the person said. They spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the operation that was still ongoing.

Those being handed over to U.S. custody include Abigael Gonzalez Valencia, a leader of Los Cuinis, a group closely aligned with notorious cartel Jalisco New Generation or CJNG. Another person, Roberto Salazar, is accused of participating in the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy, the person said.

Mexicos Attorney Generals Office and Security ministry confirmed the transfers, which were carried out after a promise from the U.S. Justice Department that prosecutors would not seek the death penalty in any of the cases.

Its the second time in months Mexico has expelled cartel figures accused of narcotics smuggling, murder and other crimes amid mounting pressure from the Trump administration to curb the flow of drugs across the border. In February, Mexico handed over to American authorities 29 cartel figures, including drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who was behind the killing of a U.S. DEA agent in 1985.

Those transfers came days before 25% tariffs on Mexican imports were to take effect. Late last month, President Donald Trump spoke with Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum and agreed to put off threatened 30% tariffs for another 90 days to allow for negotiations.

Sheinbaum has shown a willingness to cooperate more on security than her predecessor, specifically being more aggressive in pursuit of Mexicos cartels. But she has drawn a clear line when it comes to Mexicos sovereignty, rejecting suggestions by Trump and others of intervention by the U.S. military.

The Trump administration made dismantling dangerous drug cartels a key priority, designating CJNG and seven other Latin American organized crime groups foreign terrorist organizations.

Abigael Gonzalez Valencia is the brother-in-law of CJNG leader Nemesio Ruben El Mencho Oseguera Cervantes, a top target of the U.S. government. He was arrested in February 2015 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and had been fighting extradition to the United States since then.

Alongside his two brothers, he led Los Cuinis, which financed the founding and growth of the CJNG, one of the most powerful and dangerous cartels in Mexico. CJNG traffics hundreds of tons of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into the United States and other countries and is known for extreme violence, murders, torture, and corruption.

One of his brothers, Jose Gonzalez Valencia, was sentenced in Washingtons federal court in June to 30 years in a U.S. prison after pleading guilty to international cocaine trafficking. Jose Gonzalez Valencia was arrested in 2017 under the first Trump administration at a beach resort in Brazil while vacationing with his family under a fake name.
China issues preliminary ruling on anti-dumping probe into Canadian rapeseed imports

Xinhua) 10:31, August 13, 2025

BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday announced a preliminary ruling on its anti-dumping probe into imported rapeseed from Canada.

The probe was launched on Sept. 9, 2024.

The ministry made a preliminary decision that rapeseed imports originating in Canada had been dumped, that China's domestic sector had been materially injured, and that there was a causal link between the dumping and the material injury, and therefore decided to impose provisional anti-dumping measures in the form of deposits on those imports.

Starting Thursday, importers of the above-mentioned product should provide deposits to Chinese customs authorities based on a deposit rate of 75.8 percent.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Steve Metzer Tulsa World Capitol Bureau Staff Writer Follow Steve Metzer 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

OKLAHOMA CITY  Increasing pressures coming from Texas on resources in southeastern Oklahoma have resulted in calls for the Legislature to add to the number of rivers, like the Illinois River, protected under the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Act.

Contributors to an interim study held on Tuesday at the Capitol said that adding the Kiamichi River and the Glover River to the list of waterways covered by the act would help safeguard the availability of water and its quality across a part of the state that has in recent years been targeted for water and hydropower by developers in north Texas and the Dallas metroplex.

The study was organized by Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, who said the Legislature needs to develop strategies to protect waterways in southeastern Oklahoma.

If we dont take action, others will decide their future for us, he said.

Bill Redman, an officer with the Kiamichi River Legacy Alliance, told lawmakers on the Senate Agriculture and Wildlife Committee about projects that have been planned  but so far thwarted  to divert water away from the Kiamichi and Glover rivers to be converted to hydropower to add to the Texas energy grid. Plans would have included taking water from the rivers to create sizable new impoundment lakes, he said.

One developer proposed boring a 32-foot diameter tunnel through a mountain to facilitate a project that also would have involved a 46-mile power transmission line to link into the Texas grid. The plan would have involved a massive amount of blasted sandstone and shale to be dumped in the Kiamichi River watershed.

It would completely ruin the Kiamichi River from that point on down, Redman said. We think there is just one way that can stop this in its tracks, and thats if the Kiamichi River along with the Glover River were enlisted into the Scenic Rivers Act.

The Scenic Rivers Act, which dates to 1970, was passed to help preserve the natural beauty and recreational value of designated free-flowing streams in Oklahoma. It designated several rivers and scenic river areas for special protections of their natural, scenic and recreational values. Among other things, they are to be preserved in a free-flowing condition unless otherwise authorized by the Legislature.

The act currently protects several rivers and creeks, including the Illinois River in Cherokee, Adair and Delaware counties; Flint Creek in Delaware County; Barren Fork Creek in Adair and Cherokee counties; a portion of Lee Creek in Sequoyah County; Little Lee Creek in Adair and Sequoyah counties, and a portion of Mountain Fork Creek in McCurtain and LeFlore counties.

Some Oklahomans in the past have expressed fears that the government would be overzealous in protecting rivers covered by the act, potentially infringing on the rights of property owners, but people who contributed to the study said there hasnt been evidence of that. Bullard said he couldnt come up with an example of a farmer or rancher being harmed by the Scenic Rivers Act.

Others who contributed to the study included Grand River Dam Authority Water Quality Manager Ed Fite, who traced the history of federal and state efforts to protect the condition of scenic waterways back to the 1960s. He said there are 78,603 miles of rivers in Oklahoma but only half a dozen scenic rivers protected under the state act. Growth and development issues that have impacted scenic rivers in northeastern Oklahoma in recent years are now beginning to spread, he said.

Northeast Texas has found southeast Oklahoma, and particularly its rivers, Fite said, and theyre wanting to do everything from recreation to hydropower to home development and water diversion.

Brandon Brown, a fisheries biologist with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, said there are about 175 unique species of fish in Oklahoma rivers and streams, including at least 100 in the Kiamichi River. He described the Kiamichi and Glover river watersheds as a hotspot for diversity nationwide.

They are two of our most species-rich streams, he said. (And) this is a really important time for streams and water in Oklahoma. There are a lot of big and important decisions that are being made right now that are going to have a big effect on what things look like and what lives here in our river and creeks 10 to 20 years down the road.

Another contributor, Oklahomans for Responsible Water Policy founder Charlette Hearne, urged lawmakers to act to protect the environment even as they consider ways to increase the states economy by using its resources.

Growth is wonderful, but our laws are not keeping up with it, she said.

The Tulsa World is where your story lives
Mike Munro recovering after prostatectomy

When he reported for Seven, Mike Munro underwent a prostate check on camera, but this time it led to surgery.

Veteran journalist Mike Munro is recovering after surgery following the discovery of a malignant tumour in his prostate gland.

For Munro, the serious news followed his own reporting on the dangers of prostate cancer and an on air test when he reported for Seven.

Writing in The Australian he said, As a journalist Ive done numerous stories over the years to increase awareness among men about prostate cancer.

As the host of the Seven Networks Sunday Night program, I had a digital rectal examination by a urologist on national television. Ten years ago, the Prostate Cancer Council of Australia wanted to encourage more men to allow doctors to feel for any swelling of the prostate by inserting a finger into the anus to give a more definite diagnosis after an elevated PSA reading. As the cameraman filmed me, his shot was tight on my face only.

The Prostate Council estimated the story may have saved dozens of lives. But that was long before the advances made in MRIs and robotic keyhole surgery. I was present in an operating theatre while covering one of the earliest robotic keyhole surgeries which took place at St Vincents Hospital to remove a prostate.

Munro now reveals he recently underwent a prostatectomy at Sydneys North Shore Hospital instead of radiation.

These are decisions which are being faced by more and more men, and are not easy to navigate. Just in my circle of mates, I know at least eight men who have recently had to grapple with these life-and-death decisions and procedures.

Just 48 hours after my operation I was allowed to leave hospital and return to my family. Caught early enough, prostate cancer does not necessarily mean a death sentence.

He is now recovering well at home after his operation.

Get well soon!

Prostate Cancer Foundation
Nine appoints new London bureau postings

Mimi Becker and Josh Bavas head to London for Nine News in coming months.

Nine News has appointed Mimi Becker and Josh Bavas to its London bureau replacing Edward Godfrey and Jess Millward.

In a note to staff Hugh Nailon, National News Director, said, Mimi Becker is a brilliant and versatile reporter who has been with Nine since the start of her career in 2014. Over more than a decade, there are not too many locations Mim hasnt called home! She started as a chase producer in the Sydney newsroom, learning the craft from the ground up. From there, she was selected to be one of Nines inaugural Regional News reporters, based in the Riverina. From there she went to her first metro market in Adelaide, before moving to Melbourne for an award-winning stint at A Current Affair, and since 2021 she has been an integral member of the GTV Newsroom. Besides being the consummate on-air professional, Mim is also a highly valued team player, pitching in everywhere from the COS Desk, to the Prod Desk, and occasional weekend weather presenting.

Josh Bavas is currently a senior reporter in our QTQ Newsroom and brings nearly 20 years of experience to our London team. A proud Queenslander and graduate of QUT, Josh commenced his career with a Cadetship at the ABC. This morphed into a successful decade-long run with our national broadcaster, including roles as State Political Reporter, with the ABCs investigative team and as a regular correspondent in New Zealand. Josh joined Nine in 2021, and has since flourished with FOI-driven exclusives, social justice investigations, and as part of our team covering the Paris Olympics. At both the ABC and at Nine Josh has been recognised by his peers with Clarion Awards for his journalism.

Both appointments are for two years.

Mimi Becker will commence in October followed by Josh Bavas in December, working under Liz Trethowan.

Both Edward Godfrey and Jess Millward will return to Australia later this year.
Azib Ahmed, TwoCircles.net

Mumbai: On a hot and humid July afternoon in Jalna, 25-year-old licensed cattle trader Sadiq Qureshi sits beside his idle truck and eyes scanning the empty roads. There are no buffaloes to transport and deals to strike. His phone has not rung in days. Business is dead, and so is the trust he once had in the system.

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We have not bought or sold buffaloes since July 11. I have lost Rs 4-5 lakh already. We are left with no option, he says. The weight in his voice is heavier than the silence that follows.

The Qureshi community (butchers by profession) across Maharashtra has been on an indefinite boycott of buffalo and bull trading for the past one month. What began as a desperate cry for help on July 1 has since grown into a state-wide protest by July 22. The agitation has spread across districts and disrupted the very spine of Maharashtras meat supply chain.

They argue that their protest is a stand for dignity, safety and the right to work without fear. The community is demanding protection from vigilante violence, alleged police harassment and suffocating fear that now shadows every trip to the cattle market. At the centre of it all is a rising tide of aggression from self-styled gau rakshaks (cow vigilante), who routinely intercept, assault and shame traders engaged in the legal transport and sale of buffaloes.

The harassment from the gau rakshaks and even police has become unbearable. The cops file cases against us falsely claiming overloading. I was fined Rs 20,000 even when my vehicles were not overloaded. This is no coincidence. Without mincing words, I can say this is targeting because we are Muslim, he says and recounts instances where mobs allegedly seized animals, beat traders and recorded humiliating videos.

Siraj Qureshi, Maharashtra vice president of the All India Jamiatul Quresh, echoes him, Our occupation is legal. The government issues us license to do it. Still, we are treated like criminals. Instead of protecting us, the police often aid the vigilantes by confiscating our animals and registering false FIRs.

Ahmed Noor, a community leader in Jalna, says fear has overtaken every aspect of their work.

The police do not return the animals they seize. We have to first face vigilantes and then the police, he says, confirming that many traders have now completely stopped transporting the cattle.

This growing storm pushed Mohammad Arif Qureshi, the Maharashtra president of All India Jamiatul Quresh, to launch the protest. The government has been lenient toward cow vigilantes. We will not resume trade until our demands are met, he says, with his stance firm.

As buffalo trading stalls, the ripple effect has begun to show up. Buffalo meat exporting companies have shuttered, workers have lost jobs and farmers are left stranded with unsold livestock.

Our factory has been shut since July 11. Labourers are suffering. We support the Qureshi communitys stand, says Mujahid Shaikh, manager at Al Quresh Exports Pvt. Ltd. in Aurangabad.

Rizwan Qureshi, who runs Al-Faiz Enterprises in Malegaon, says, This is the first time we have had to close our company. The Qureshi community has asked us not to accept supply, and we have complied. We are incurring heavy losses.

Juned Qureshi, a 35-year-old butcher from Akot, finds no end to alleged harassment. I have had two cases, one was slapped in 2016 and the other in 2023. The police seize animals and ask for money. We are doing everything legally but still live in fear, he alleged.

The roots of this chaos stretch back to 2015, when an amendment to the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act banned the slaughter of cows, bulls and bullocks, while allowing buffalo slaughter under strict regulations. But even that legality offers no shield, say members of the Qureshi community.

Aqif Qureshi, a lawyer from Aurangabad, explains, Under Section 5A (of the amended law), there is no restriction on buffalo transport within the state. Still, cow vigilantes and police act unlawfully. Even when cases are cleared, animals are not returned.

He adds that each animal costs Rs 200 daily in Gaushala maintenance and that vigilantes often keep them illegally. All Qureshis carry proper licenses and market receipts, but they are still hounded, he alleges.

The crisis is not limited to the Qureshis. Farmers, too, are suffering. In Buldhana, 40-year-old farmer and trader Pralad Shelke explains the financial blow.

Earlier I sold buffaloes for Rs 80,000; now I am forced to sell them at Rs 70,000 or less. Most markets are shut or empty because Qureshis have stopped buying. We spend around Rs 2,000 just to take one buffalo to market. Now there is no one to sell to, he says.

Despite the economic collapse and human cost, the response from the state has been minimal. Community leaders allege that only verbal assurances have come from officials, there is no formal action, no circulars and no protection on the ground.

What remains is a growing silence in markets once bustling with trade. Empty trucks line the roadsides. Families sit without income. And a community waits for justice as well as for the basic right to live and work without fear.
Abdul Alim Jafri, TwoCircles.net

Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh): Silence the narrow road in Abunagar. Broken bricks, burnt tyres and glass pieces are scattered. The gate to an ancient tomb is open. On a sweltering August 11 morning, the monument witnessed vandalism, Hindutva chants and waving of saffron flags. Nawab Abdus Samad Khans 17th-century tomb in Fatehpur, once forgotten by the world, was now thrust into a storm of religious assertion.

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A crowd surged past barricades, led by members of right-wing Hindutva groups. With chants of Jai Shri Ram echoing off its fading stone, parts of the mausoleum were vandalised. A saffron flag was hoisted on top of the structure.

Among the crowd was Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) District President Mukhlal Pal, urging people to reclaim what he claimed was the temple of Thakurji Sanwaria Sahab Virajman. The crowd comprising alleged members of the Bajrang Dal, the Math Mandir Sanrakshan Sangharsh Samiti and other Hindutva-aligned groups followed his call, claiming the thousand-year-old temple has a Shivling beneath.

We want to clean it for Janmashtami celebrations. There are religious symbols, Parikrama Marg and a temple well. The structure is not a tomb, said Virendra Pandey, who is the vice president of the Uttar Pradesh wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).

Inside the boundaries of this now-contested space are graves, which are marked, documented and named in the archives of history. It is a centuries-old tomb with graves inside. The place is recorded in government documents. Are we now going to look for temples under every mosque and tomb? said Mohammad Naseem, national secretary of the National Ulama Council, condemning the incident.

The Uttar Pradesh Police has registered an FIR against 10 named and 150 unnamed individuals after videos of the incident went viral. We have videos and drone footage. We are identifying those who entered the tomb and damaged it, said senior the superintendent of police, who confirmed that several sections of the Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita (BNS), Criminal Law Amendment (CLA) Act and Public Property Damage Prevention Act have been invoked.

The tombs desecration followed a memorandum submitted to District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar on August 9, demanding removal of what was termed as encroachment and urging permission to perform religious rituals at the site.

Security has since tightened. Barricades line the perimeter. The police forces stand guard around the disputed zone. The barricading has been done under the instructions of the District Officer, confirmed Avinash Pandey, junior engineer of Nagar Palika Parishad.

However, for many locals, the sense of safety comes too late.

We have grown up hearing from our elders how the Babri Masjid was demolished. Day before yesterday, it felt like the same scene playing out again. The crowd stormed in, as if they had come to tear it down, while the administration stood by and watched, said Rameez, whose house is just steps away from the mausoleum.

His friend Kamran alleged, The authorities knew what was going to happen. These organisations had announced their plans 10 days ago. There was deployment of the police force. Still, the incident happened.

The silence from political quarters has added to the frustration, especially among young Muslims in Fatehpur. The Samajwadi Party, the principal Opposition in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, talks about PDA (Pichda  backward; Dalits (untouchables); and Alpsankhayak  minorities) but when it comes to supporting us on the ground, they are nowhere to be found, said a local youth, refusing to be named.

In the wake of growing tensions, Pervez Khan, a Lucknow-based lawyer advocating for the preservation of Mughal-era monuments, warns of a pattern.

From the Babri Masjid to the Nawab Abdus Samad tomb and even mazars (shrines) on the India-Nepal border, the Hindutva brigade continues to mock the very idea of respecting each others faith. The government watches like Nero as history burns, he alleged.

A Tomb With a Name

Abdus Samad Khans mausoleum is not a mystery wrapped in folklore. Its story has a mention in the District Gazetteers of Fatehpur, the Imperial Gazetteer of India and in architectural stone.

A 17th-century Mughal military commander of Emperor Aurangzeb, Khan was the faujdar of Pailani in Bundelkhand. He died in battle against Prince Shah Shuja during the Mughal succession war. In honour of his service, Aurangzeb commissioned the mausoleum in Fatehpur, beside the ruins of his fort in Abunagar.

The tomb is officially recorded as Maqbara Mangi under Khasra number 753 and classified as protected national property. Though timeworn, the structure bears the hallmarks of Mughal architecture (minarets at each corner, a central dome, stone-carved window screens and inscriptions marking the deaths of Abdus Samad Khan in 1699 and his son Abu Muhammad in 1701).

This mausoleum is famous for its stone carvings. It resembles the Taj Mahal in structure. Its minarets and engravings are a fine example of Mughal artistry, said Mohammad Ismail Fatehpuri, a historian and author of the Tareekh-e-Fatehpur.

Once painted white, its walls have dulled. Moss cling to the surface. The fort that once stood nearby has been reduced to broken walls and rubble. Locals speak of people playing cards on the tombs steps, unaware of or unmoved by its past.

People often spend time sitting there, chatting or gambling. They do not realise it is a historical monument, a local resident said.

Encroachment too have sprung up around the area. Homes and shops now press in on what was once a vast and open compound. The large masonry tank and ornamental pavilions are long gone, demolished by people hoping to find hidden treasure. But nothing of that sort was found.

What happened with the tomb, locals say, is not merely a dispute over bricks and burial sites. They speak to the vulnerability of forgotten monuments and the people they represent.

In Fatehpur, the tomb stood still for centuries, untouched by time but worn by it. Now, its walls carry the marks of a different kind of erosion, not of weather, but of will.

As history is pulled into a tug-of-war between memory and political assertion, what remains is a solitary structure once meant to honour the dead, now made to answer questions of the living.

History does not shout, it fades. And sometimes, we only notice it when someone tries to erase it, said an elderly resident silently watching the barricaded site.
Every time a mass grave is excavated in Sri Lanka, Thambirasa Selvarani can't sleep.

"We don't know what happened to our relatives, and when they start digging, I feel panicked," Selvarani told DW.

The 54-year-old has been searching for her husband, Muthulingam Gnanaselvam, since he disappeared in May 2009 after he surrendered to government forces at the end of the Sri Lankan civil war. After decades of fighting, the conflict ended with the defeat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE),also known as the Tamil Tigers.

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Multiple mass graves have been uncovered since then. For the last three months, archaeologists have been excavating a mass grave in Chemmani, on the outskirts of Jaffna, the capital of Sri Lanka's Northern Province. The excavation has unearthed 140 skeletons so far, including children.

Victims 'heaped together' in a shallow grave

Chemmani has been suspected as a mass grave site since at least 1998. A former army corporal, who at the time was on trial for the rape and murder of schoolgirl Krishanthi Kumaraswamy, said there were hundreds of other bodies buried in the area alongside the young girl.

A Sri Lankan court is due to decide this week on when the final stage of the Chemmani excavations is to take place AFP/Getty Images

Lawyer V. S. Niranchan told DW he was working with families whose relatives had disappeared from the area surrounding Chemmani in the 1990s.

So far, the excavations have shown that bodies were buried "haphazardly, without any legal barriers, heaped together in a shallow, unmarked" fashion.

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"We think some of them could have been buried alive," he said, adding, "if they were already dead, the bodies wouldn't be bent," with some of them displaying twisted limbs.

Several artifacts have been discovered at the site along with the skeletons, including slippers, a baby's milk bottle, and a child's school bag.

Opening old wounds

Anushani Alagarajah, executive director of the Jaffna-based Adayaalam Centre for Policy Research, said Chemmani had a "very painful, very traumatic history, particularly with people in Jaffna."

Remains belonging to more than 140 people have been excavated at the Chemmani mass grave AFP/Getty Images

"A lot of our friends' brothers and fathers and sisters disappeared at the time," Alagarajah told DW. "It's been over 25 years. It's opening up very old, deep wounds, not just for the families, but for the whole community, the whole of Jaffna. And it's a reminder that you can't really forget."

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The Chemmani excavation has become the most high-profile instance of a mass grave investigation in Sri Lanka to date.

It has also triggered numerous calls for international oversight, especially from the country's Tamil community.

Visiting the site in June, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk noted that "Sri Lanka has struggled to move forward with domestic accountability mechanisms that are credible and have the trust and confidence of victims. This is why Sri Lankans have looked outside for justice, through assistance at the international level."

'We don't know who they're going to find next'

Tamil activists held a protest to coincide with Turk's visit. Thambirasa Selvarani attended the event and met Turk personally, telling him she had no faith in Sri Lankan justice mechanisms.

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Selvarani is the chairperson for the Association of Relatives of Enforced Disappearances (ARED) in Ampara District. She wants mass graves in her district to also be excavated.

"We feel scared. We don't know who they're going to find next, who they're going to identify next," Selvarani told DW. "I keep thinking about it day and night and I can't sleep, I can't eat. I feel so disturbed."

"For the last 17 years, as presidents keep changing, we've been asking them to tell us the truth about what happened to our children and loved ones," Selvarani said.

The progress, however, has been slow. Selvarani says she still faces intimidation by officers from Sri Lanka's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) when attending protests.

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"They say, 'You shouldn't go there, your relatives are dead, why are you still going here and there?'" Selvarani told DW.

New government, old problems

In a break from Sri Lanka's usual dynasty politics, the country elected leftist president Anura Kumara Dissanayake in September 2024. But lawyer Niranchan remains suspicious, saying "history has shown" that governments could not be trusted and would object to international oversight.

"This government doesn't understand ethnic problems," he told DW. "They think that the country will be peaceful if we stop corruption. But they don't understand that ethnic problems are also a reason that this country has fallen into debt."

Ambika Satkunanathan, a human rights lawyer and former commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, shares his distrust.

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"Historically, pretty much nearly every Sri Lankan government has been extremely reluctant to obtain international assistance in different accountability processes," she said.

The latest excavation near Jaffna has reignited the demands for international oversight as Sri Lanka comes to terms with its history of violence Akila Jayawardena/Matrix Images/picture alliance

Before coming to power, President Dissanayake said he would not seek to prosecute those responsible for war crimes. Talking to DW, Satkunanathan highlighted the lack of trust that victims have that the state is committed to pursuing justice.

In Sri Lanka, hope is 'dangerous'

Last month, human rights NGO International Committee of Jurists (ICJ) called for "international oversight and victim-centred investigation" to take place "in compliance with international law and standards" in Sri Lanka.

But Alagarajah from the Adayaalam Centre for Policy Research says she does not believe Dissanayake's government would request international oversight. She also said she did not see "anything different" regarding Chemmani when compared to previous excavations.

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Alagarajah said she had met with families who believed they would find their children in Chemmani and who "want to believe that this process is going to give them some answers," but that the hope for answers was also "dangerous."

"Hope is not always the best thing to have, because it can also deeply disappoint you and hurt you, particularly in this country," Alagarajah said.

Edited by: Darko Janjevic
As Ive mentioned in some reviews, Im not a big fan of biopics. Just as troublesome for me is my iffy relationship with movie musicals. While there are exceptions and there are a few I legitimately adore, Im often vexed by the insistence to sing every emotion or key plot beat when a conversation would suffice and move the plot along. Ive had people flat tell me Im a crumudgeon about musicals. I accept that. I can live with that. But then we get something like Carol Reeds Oliver!, and that hard-nosed exterior softens at the opening song about a band of orphaned children wishing for better eats.

Now, through two Blu-ray releases, the first 4K UHD release, and this solo venture, this will be the fourth time we at HDD have looked at Oliver! on disc. Seeing that I dont have much to add to the conversation, Ill link to Mr. Krauss Blu-ray reviews and Mr. Duartes 4K review. Between the two of them, I find I am square in the middle of my colleagues and their assessments. While I fully understand how Mr. Duarte feels about the song and dance numbers being at odds with the tone of the story, I cant deny theyre infectiously entertaining in their drab Dickensian manner.

At the same time, I dont fully love the film as strongly as Mr. Krauss. Since he saw the film as a child during its original theatrical run, its understandable hed have a stronger pull towards it. I first saw this as a child on a small ten-inch television - hardly the grand scale of a theater screen to leave a truly lasting impression. I have fond memories of Oliver! but I dont love it. Its a musical Ill watch and enjoy, but not one Id necessarily go out of my way to pull off the shelf.

Its with that Ill leave you to read better, more nuanced thoughts than I have.

David Krauss' Blu-ray Review

M. Enois Duarte's 4K UHD Review













Vital Disc Stats: The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

Please, sir, can we have another 4K? Carol Reeds Oliver! grabs another bowlful of 2160p for a single-disc solo title release from Sony. Pressed on a BD100 disc, the disc is housed in a standard black case with identical slipcover artwork. A Movies Anywhere-compatible digital code is included. The Disc loads to a static image main menu with standard navigation options along the bottom and the list of extra features along the right side of the screen.
KABUL, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced Wednesday the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kyrgyzstan to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation, the ministry said in a statement.

The agreement was signed in Bishkek by acting Afghan Minister of Commerce and Industry Nooruddin Azizi and Kyrgyz Economy and Commerce Minister Bakyt Sydykov, following discussion on a wide range of initiatives, the statement added.

According to the statement, the two sides also discussed a joint trade center, mechanisms for setting up trade houses and commercial centers, facilitating regular in-person and virtual meetings, organizing economic forums, exhibitions, and business meetings, a joint working ground to advance commercial centers, as well as promoting joint investment in Afghanistan, it said.

Since taking power in August 2021, the Afghan interim government has been actively seeking to expand its economic partnerships, with a focus on boosting regional trade connectivity and attracting foreign investment in the poverty-stricken country. 
Anna Wintour is said to be lining up Chloe Malle as the frontrunner to succeed her at Vogue.

Anna Wintour is said to be lining up Chloe Malle as the frontrunner to succeed her at Vogue

The 75-year-old is stepping down as editor-in-chief of the fashion bible after 37 years, and is said by Page Six to have narrowed the shortlist to a small group of candidates.

Chloe, 39, is the daughter of actress Candice Bergen and French film director Louis Malle, currently serves as editor of Vogue.com.

Sources told Page Six that she is in the final rounds of interviews to become head of editorial content at US Vogue.

She recently interviewed Lauren Sanchez for her Vogue cover ahead of Sanchezs Venetian wedding to Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos.

According to insiders, Nicole Phelps, global director of Vogue Runway  the online platform dedicated to fashion shows  also remains in the running for the top job.

A final decision is expected by the start of New York Fashion Week, which runs from 11 to 16 September.

Sources say there are four to five leading candidates left, including some from outside the company. Instagrams Eva Chen, previously linked to the role, is said to be no longer considered likely to move, with an industry insider telling Page Six: Eva is making a ton of money at Instagram. There is no reason for her to move over.

Eva, who is 42 and Head of Fashion Partnerships at Instagram, previously worked at Conde Nasts Teen Vogue and Lucky.

W Magazine owner Sara Moonves, 45, has also been suggested as a contender, but sources say she is too tied to her own publication to make the shift.

Similarly, Chioma Nnadi, who replaced Edward Enninful as head of editorial content at British Vogue in October 2023, remains in London and reportedly happy in her role.

Anna broke the news of her departure as editor-in-chief in June.

She told staff: When I became the editor of Vogue, I was eager to prove to all who might listen that there was a new, exciting way to imagine an American fashion magazine.

Now, I find that my greatest pleasure is helping the next generation of impassioned editors storm the field with their own ideas, supported by a new, exciting view of what a major media company can be.

The incoming editor will hold the title of head of editorial content, rather than editor-in-chief, and will report to Anna, who is remaining as Vogues global editorial director and chief content officer for Conde Nast.

Anna has said: (Ill be) paying very close attention to the fashion industry and to the creative cultural force that is our extraordinary Met Ball, and charting the course of future Vogue Worlds, and any other original fearless ideas we may come up with.
Lam Dinh Thang, director of Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology, said the city has entered a new development phase driven by high labour productivity and advanced technology, with the digital economy seen as an inevitable growth engine.

"Ho Chi Minh City has made the digital economy one of its key development pillars, setting targets 510 per cent above the national average. It aims for the sector to account for 25 per cent of regional GDP this year and 40 per cent by 2030," Thang said at an August 12 seminar on the digital economy as a growth driver for the southern metropolis, co-organised by Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology and the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH).

"Our goal is for the citys digital economy to truly and effectively contribute to a double-digit economic growth rate starting from 2026," Thanh added.

Photo: Le Toan.

Meanwhile, according to Nguyen Huu Yen, deputy director of Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology, to develop a strategic roadmap for the coming period, the city needs to rely on five pillars: improving the institutional framework, developing digital infrastructure, enhancing human resource quality, building an innovation ecosystem, and strengthening cooperation and linkages.

"In particular, Ho Chi Minh City will leverage the central urban areas advantages in services and innovation, Binh Duongs industrial strengths, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau's seaport and tourism potential, to form a comprehensive digital economy value chain," said Yen.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Minh Tuan, director of the Department of Digital Economy and Digital Society under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), shared the formula for success in the digital economy.

First, according to Tuan, the digital economy must be measured by online results. "The MoST has deployed an intelligent survey tool on smartphones, allowing citizens to evaluate action programmes. Based on these evaluations, we can directly measure the impact of initiatives in numerical terms, and from there adjust relevant policies."

Second, the wholesale and retail support ecosystem should include e-commerce platforms (such as Shopee, Lazada), customer relationship management systems (salesforce), warehouse management systems, online payment platforms (such as Momo, ZaloPay), and data analytics tools to optimise business operations.

Third, is a demand-supply connection model that coordinates between central and local levels, a structured collaboration aimed at addressing imbalances in resources, products, and services between central and local governments through mechanisms such as information exchange, shared responsibility, resource allocation, and unified policies to achieve socioeconomic efficiency.

In addition, the MoST is implementing plans to enhance the role of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in digital transformation. SMEs currently account for 97 per cent of all enterprises and contribute 60 per cent of GDP, but their labour productivity is three to four times lower than the regional average.

"The ministry has developed a set of digital transformation assessment indicators for SMEs, and proposed solutions such as digital signatures, e-invoices, e-commerce, and AI platforms tailored to each sector," Tuan said, adding that SMEs are the focus due to their simple business models and the potential to boost productivity by 1520 per cent if digital transformation is successfully implemented.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Khanh Nam, rector of the School of Economics, Law, and State Management (under UEH), said Ho Chi Minh City should prioritise the development of a shared data repository, encourage digitalisation, and connect data from multiple sources, while ensuring privacy protection and cybersecurity.

At the same time, the city needs to invest heavily in developing technology platforms and high-quality workers, forming an innovation community, and supporting Vietnamese-made technology products.

Despite its many advantages, Ho Chi Minh City also faces significant challenges. One major challenge is the disparity in the level of digitalisation between regions, particularly between Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

In addition, cybersecurity is emerging as a major issue as the city becomes a mega-urban area, increasing the risk of cyberattacks. Moreover, changing the digital mindset and culture of citizens and businesses, especially SMEs, remains a long journey that will require greater guidance and support from the city government.

Ho Chi Minh City aims for a smarter and greener future Ho Chi Minh Citys development vision to 2050 is a strategic integration effort. VIRs Quynh Chau spoke with Doan Manh Thang, director of Water Technology and Resilience at Royal HaskoningDHV Vietnam, which led a consortium of 10 consultants to set up the citys master plan.

Ho Chi Minh City and Danang gear up for financial hub projects Ho Chi Minh City and Danang are advancing plans to establish international fnancial centres as part of Vietnams long-term growth strategy.
Running from August 1 to September 6, the campaign, titled '80 Glorious Years of Vietnam - Proudly following in Muong Thanhs footsteps', covers the groups network of 63 hotels and eco-resorts. It commemorates the anniversary of September 2, 1945, when President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed independence in Hanoi's Ba Dinh Square.

Throughout the campaign, all Muong Thanh properties are being decorated in the red and yellow colours of the national flag, creating a consistent visual theme across reception areas, lobbies, bars, and buffet spaces. Each location features a tribute corner for guests to write messages to the nation. Mini exhibitions display archival images of military parades at Ba Dinh Square, while QR codes provide access to an audio recording of the Declaration of Independence.

National Day decorations at Muong Thanh Luxury Halong. Photo: Muong Thanh Group

In Hanoi, the centre of official National Day events, the group is supporting the community with water stations, hand-fan distribution, and activities on its digital platforms. The company said these efforts aim to help the celebrations run smoothly.

Established more than three decades ago, Muong Thanh has developed from a domestic hotel operator into a diversified group with activities in urban development, education, and healthcare. The company positions its hotels as accommodation providers and as venues that showcase Vietnamese culture. Its properties have hosted various political, economic, and diplomatic events, underscoring the role of hospitality infrastructure in national and international engagements.

Each hotel will have a signing corner for guests to write personal messages on this significant day. Photo: Muong Thanh Group

The current campaign also includes internal activities for employees. An internal video competition, sharing the theme of the public campaign, invites staff across the network to submit entries highlighting their professional commitment and national pride.

"Love for our homeland is not confined to slogans. It starts from the smallest actions, the daily dedication to work, and the contributions we each make," a Muong Thanh representative told VIR.

Muong Thanh says that its hospitality operations follow strict service standards designed to deliver consistent quality while incorporating Vietnamese design features and traditions.

"Our operations are built on rigorous service standards to ensure consistency, while integrating Vietnamese design elements and traditions," said the representative. "This approach underpins our strategy to expand regionally and globally as a Vietnamese-owned brand, and as the largest private hotel chain in Indochina, we see the National Day campaign as an important opportunity to strengthen our brand presence."

For visitors, the offering combines historical displays, interactive features, and event-day support. For employees, it incorporates engagement initiatives designed to reinforce service values. The group said that the campaign offers a platform to communicate its focus on heritage, service quality, and community involvement in a manner consistent across all locations.

International visitors have the opportunity to take souvenir photos at the hotel. Photo: Muong Thanh Group

This years celebrations coincide with the 80th anniversary of Vietnams independence proclamation, providing businesses such as Muong Thanh with an opportunity to connect hospitality activities with a major national occasion. The groups initiative reflects a wider trend in the tourism sector, in which operators incorporate cultural content into services to enhance visitor experience and brand identity.

Muong Thanh unveils premium mooncakes for Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 In anticipation of the Mid-Autumn Festival 2025, Muong Thanh Group has launched Nguyet Vu Doan Vien, a premium mooncake collection inspired by traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship and culinary heritage.

Train an attractive choice to tourists on National Day holiday Amid rising airfares, many travelers are shifting to train to travel in the coming National Day holiday, according to Bui Thanh Tu - Marketing Director of BestPrice Travel Company.
PetroVietnam Technical Services Corporation (PTSC) and LS Eco Energy Ltd. (LSEE), part of LS Cable & System, signed a Joint Development Agreement in Seoul during the VietnamKorea Economic Forum on August 12. The agreement covers investment, construction, and operation of a high-voltage alternating and direct current cable manufacturing plant, marking a strategic step to strengthen Vietnams renewable energy infrastructure and related industries.

As the world shifts to clean energy, demand for high-capacity power transmission, especially offshore high-voltage cables, is rising rapidly. At the same time, a global shortage of quality HVDC cables is slowing many renewable projects. The partnership between PTSC and LSEE aims to tackle this challenge and position Vietnam as a regional leader in producing and exporting high-quality high-voltage cables.

The strong backing from the two parent corporations, PetroVietnam and LS Cable & System, serves as a strategic guarantee for the scale and long-term sustainability of the venture, while underscoring their commitment to driving technological innovation, enhancing value creation, and making a positive contribution to the global green energy development goals. LSEE will take a central role, leveraging its world-class advanced manufacturing technology to ensure products meet the most stringent international standards while optimising productivity and quality.

LS Cable & System currently operates two large-scale manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, namely LS-VINA Cable & System in Haiphong and LS Cable Vietnam in Dong Nai. Both facilities have established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality power cables to domestic and export markets. The addition of the new high-voltage cable plant will complete the production value chain, meeting the rapidly growing demand in this strategic market segment.

As the core subsidiary of PetroVietnam in the fields of oil and gas technical services, industry, and renewable energy, PTSC remains steadfast in pursuing its strategy to expand manufacturing capacity, diversify products and services, and strengthen partnerships with leading international players.

The collaboration with LSEE is expected to help develop a highly skilled technical workforce and introduce advanced technologies, marking a strategic move to position Vietnam on the global renewable energy map.

IFC considers $200m loan for LG Innotek Vietnam The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is considering a loan of up to $200 million to LG Innotek Vietnam Haiphong Co., Ltd.

Pacifico Energy eyes major wind energy investments in Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Nate Franklin, chairman of Pacifico Energy Group from the United States, on March 12 to discuss wind power projects.
On August 11, Vietnams Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and South Koreas Ministry of Science and ICT signed an MoU to enhance cooperation in sci-tech. The signing, witnessed by Party General Secretary To Lam and President Lee Jae Myung during the Vietnamese leaders visit to Seoul, is expected to boost innovation capacity and deliver practical benefits to individuals and businesses in both countries.

Party General Secretary To Lam and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung witnessed the MoU signing. Photo: MoST

As part of the visit, the MoST, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Vietnamese Embassy, in collaboration with South Koreas Ministry of Science and ICT, held a roundtable on August 12. The first of its kind, the event established a strategic cooperation framework centred on three key growth drivers: innovation, digital transformation, and advancements in science.

In his speech, Party General Secretary To Lam emphasised the importance of sci-tech development. He cited South Koreas 'Miracle on the Han River' as proof of the transformative power of technology-driven growth, urging both nations to make it a strategic pillar of the comprehensive strategic partnership.

Vietnam has adopted a national strategy that prioritises sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers to boost competitiveness and achieve high-income, developed nation status, said Party General Secretary Lam. To advance these fields, the country is focusing on policy reform, talent training, financial investment, and international cooperation.

He emphasised that cooperation in these areas will be a central pillar in elevating bilateral relations, expressing confidence that the Vietnam-South Korea comprehensive strategic partnership will deliver inclusive and sustainable benefits for both nations.

According to Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung, Vietnam sees sci-tech, innovation, and digital transformation as the core drivers to become a high-income, developed nation, aiming for them to contribute at least 50 per cent of GDP growth.

"Vietnam hopes that South Korea will share its experience in technology-based development, especially high technology, emerging technology, and core technology; and at the same time, increase technology transfer through research, training and development centres in Vietnam," said Minister Hung.

He added that the budget for these areas has increased from 1 per cent to 3 per cent per year and is expected to continue to grow. Currently, the laws on high technology and technology transfer are being revised, with strong incentive policies for foreign investors involved in technology transfer activities to Vietnam.

He also called for deeper collaboration in semiconductors, electronics, telecommunications, AI, quantum technology, new energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology and cybersecurity, joint research and development (R&D) initiatives, technology transfer between companies, research institutes and universities, and the development of R&D centres.

Hung said Vietnam is looking forward to working with South Korea to build a digital government platform, develop a national data centre, and enhance cybersecurity, digital sovereignty, and governance capacity.

Also at the event, South Korean businesses and delegates shared insights on digital transformation, innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and national strategy development.

Representatives from South Korean research institutes, universities, and technology firms proposed partnerships with Vietnamese counterparts in areas such as rare earth recovery, production technologies, joint R&D, and technology support for SMEs.

Vietnam Railways and KORAIL strengthen cooperation The Vietnam Railway College, under Vietnam Railways (VNR), and KORAIL signed an MoU on May 30 to strengthen future cooperation.

Kim Long Motor delivers electric buses to South Korea Kim Long Motor Hue handed over the first electric bus under the Kim Long brand to South Korea's Daon Mobility Co., Ltd on June 2.

Vietnam Innovation Network in South Korea to grow tech Party General Secretary To Lam has urged the Vietnam Innovation Network in South Korea to spearhead initiatives and foster connections that bring global expertise and cutting-edge advancements to Vietnam.
As a remarkable stride to create a stronger legal framework that fosters favourable conditions for attracting high-skilled foreign personnel, the government on August 7 passed Decree No. 219/2025/ND-CP (Decree 219) on foreign employees working in Vietnam, which took effect on the same date and replaced Decree No.152/2020/ND-CP (Decree 152) regulating foreign employees working in Vietnam and Vietnamese employees working for foreign entities in Vietnam.

Le Vu Bang, partner, and An Nguyen, associate, at Nishimura & Asahi (Vietnam) Law Firm

In light of this recent development, Le Vu Bang, partner, and An Nguyen, associate, at Nishimura & Asahi (Vietnam) Law Firm examine the significant changes introduced under Decree 219 in comparison to Decree 152, highlighting measures aimed at streamlining previously complicated administrative procedures and conspicuously reducing the regulatory burdens for the affected parties.

New opportunities to be a foreign employee in Vietnam

With the target of detailing the scope of applicable subjects, Decree 219 added new categories which had not been mentioned at all before. Particularly,

being transferred from an agency, organisation, or enterprise abroad to work in Vietnam, except in the case of intra-corporate transfer (Article 2.1(h) of Decree 219)

This category has been developed based on the earlier working form working for foreign non-governmental organisations and international organisations in Vietnam that are permitted to operate under the provisions of Vietnamese law (Article 2.1(e) of Decree 152). Concurrently, it also resolves the common confusion regarding the interpretation of the working form managers, executive operators, experts and technicians (Article 2.1(i) of Decree 152), which are often mistakenly regarded as either working form or working position of the foreign employees, thus causing difficulties in identifying the components of the supporting documents in the licensing process, as explained by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).

BOD chairman, BOD member of a joint stock company, owner, member of a limited liability company with a capital contribution value of less than VND3 billion (Article 2.1(l) of Decree 219)

This category could be viewed as a clarification intended to encompass all cases related to managerial persons as defined under the Law on Enterprise. Previously, these roles (i.e., BOD chairman, BOD member of a joint stock company, owner, member of a limited liability company) were not explicitly defined as a working form under Decree 152; however, the foreign employees in such roles were considered eligible for the confirmation on exemptions from work permit (WPE) if their respective capital contribution is VND3 billion ($120,000) or more. With this new category, Decree 219 becomes more comprehensive and recognises the specific situation where the managerial persons with a capital contribution fall below VND3 billion ($120,000) are subject to obtain the work permits (WP).

implementing labour contracts with foreign diplomatic missions and foreign organisations in Vietnam (Article 2.1(m) of Decree 219).

This category has finally been introduced to address formerly unregulated cases in which such entities are also among the category of employers as defined under Decree 219. While not yet been clearly explained by MoHA, this new addition may suggest the intention of extending the foreign labour management framework to cover them and their employees.

Clearer and harmonised working positions standards

Decree 219 clearly defined that foreigners may only be employed in Vietnam if they fall within one of the four eligible categories: (i) expert, (ii) executive director, (iii) manager, or (iv) technician. While the conditions to work as a manager remain relatively unchanged, the remaining roles have significant updates as follows:

Experts: Decree 219 reduced the requirement on working experience to at least two years and added a category of foreigners who qualify as experts by having a university degree or higher (or an equivalent qualification) in a speciality appropriate for their intended job in Vietnam, specifically in the fields of finance, science, technology, innovation, national digital transformation, or other sectors prioritised for development by Vietnam, or pursuant to cooperation agreements of the Vietnamese government.

This new category has observed the governments approach in high-tech fields in accordance with Resolution No. 57-NQ-TW of the Politburo dated December 2024 on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation with a vision to 2045.

This new category imposes the requirement of having at least one year of relevant work experience, unlike experts in other sectors, indicating a more favourable access for foreign experts to Vietnamese labour market.

Executive directors: Conditions to work as executive director under Decree 219 is stricter than those under Decree 152 due to supplementation on the requirement of having at least three-year-working experience in the field suitable to their intended working position, if they are not the heads of branches, representative offices or business locations of the enterprises. According to the MOHAs view, this provision would prevent employers taking advantage of the former, more lenient, regulation that allowed recruitment of unqualified or inexperienced foreign employees.

Technicians: Decree 219 has loosened the condition to work as technician than Decree 152 from at least five-year to three-year-working experience in the field suitable to their intended working position.

For the case of having only two-year-working experience, the requirement for one-year-training shall be met. It is evident that Decree 219 continues to uphold the removal of the requirement for working experience in the trained major, which was first introduced by Decree No.70/2023/ND-CP amending Decree 152.

As explained by the MoHA, this change reflects the practical demand for technicians across various fields, not limited to those with technical academic backgrounds. At the same time, Decree 219 lowers certain qualification standards to promote job opportunities for a category that constitutes a relatively high proportion of foreign employees in Vietnam.

New labour licensing authority

Adapting the recent restructuring of the governments agencies, provincial peoples committees have now assumed responsibility for the management of labour-related matters, as per Article 4 of Decree 219..

Especially, the committee (where the respective agency, organisation, or enterprise is located) is now in charge of the issuance, renewal, extension, revocation of the WP, and work permit exemption (WPE) for foreign employees.

In case a foreign employee works for an employer in diverse localities, the provincial Peoples Committee where the employers head office is based has licensing authority, as per Article 4.1 of Decree 219.

Modifications concerning WPE cases

Abolishing limit on number of entries for short-term foreign employees

Earlier under Decree 152, foreign managers, executive directors, experts, or technicians entering Vietnam for working less than 30 days are entitled to a WPE if their cumulative entries do not exceed three times per year.

However, such number of entries has been deregulated, Decree 219 only required that total time working in Vietnam is less than 90 days calculating from January 1 to the last day of the year.

Accordingly, multiple entries by foreign employees have been permitted without triggering WP requirements, in order to accommodate the practical needs of foreign employees undertaking various short-term assignments, as noted by MOHA.

Inheriting former regulation on the applicable WPE positions of intra-corporate transfer

Although intra-corporate transfer is already one of the WPE cases under Decree 152, Decree 219 introduces this form, along with multiple short-term entries as discussed above, into the cases where a WPE applies to foreign managers, executive directors, experts, or technicians, as noted in Article 7.13 of Decree 219.

Simultaneously, Decree 219 redefines the intra-corporate transfer form by separating it from the specific positions  namely managers, executive directors, experts, and technicians  as previously included in the definition of intra-corporate transfer foreign employees under Decree 152.

This redefinition suggests that the intra-corporate transfer form may now also apply to other types of working positions. In this context, the government has requested the Ministry of Industry and Trade to issue guidance on the identification of intra-corporate transfer foreign employees in the eleven service sectors listed in Vietnams Schedule of Specific Commitments on Services under its obligations to the World Trade Organisation.

Additional case

Decree 219 provided an additional WPE case for foreign employees certified by ministries or ministerial-level agencies to work in Vietnam in the fields of finance, science, technology, innovation, national digital transformation, and prioritised development sectors.

This change reflects a recent proactive effort of Vietnam to streamline the entry of crucial talent, potentially boosting economic growth and international collaboration in prioritised industries, particularly in areas like innovation and digital transformation. In this additional case, the government has requested the relevant ministries and ministerial-level agencies to issue guidance on specific occupations and working positions within the aforementioned fields.

Elimination of requisite steps for obtaining WPs

Decree 219 has reduced administrative procedures for the application of WPs, in which employers are no longer required to conduct the steps of announcing recruitment and obtaining approval for the demand to employ foreign employees, except for the working form of (i) performing a labour contract, (ii) implementing bid packages and projects in Vietnam, and (iii) conducting labour contracts with foreign diplomatic missions and foreign organisations in Vietnam.

With respect to the aforementioned working forms, employers are still required to prepare an explanatory report on the demand for using foreign employees, which is included in the application form for WP issuance, enclosed with Decree 219 (Form No.03).

The procedural removal for the remaining working forms is expected to reduce the existing time-consuming licensing process, thereby decreasing administrative costs for both employers and foreign employees.

Introducing the mechanism for extending WPEs

With the new regulation under Decree 219, a WPE can now be extended once for a maximum employment period of two years upon its expiration.

Employers shall extend WPEs by submitting the same documents required for the initial WPE application, together with the issued WPE.

The extension application must be submitted in advance at least 10 days but not exceed 45 days before the WPEs expiration.

The competent authority is required to process the application within five working days. This is different from the previous regulation, as Decree 152 has no mechanism to extend the WPE, just reissuance.

Further, this additional procedure promotes consistency in the administrative process applicable to foreign employees subject to WP requirements and those eligible for WPE, assisting employers in maintaining longevity and stability in the foreign workforce.

Other notable changes

Evidencing documents for WPEs: Decree 219 specifies the types of documents required to prove that a foreign employee qualifies for a WPE for each particular exemption case in Article 8.5, while this regulation was absent under Decree 152.

Photograph requirements: Decree 219 removes the requirement that photographs be taken within six months prior to application submission date, given there is no basis to determine the date such photo has been taken and that the identity of foreign employees can be verified through valid passport photos.

Reporting requirements: Under Decree 152, employers were required to submit semi-annual and annual reports on their employment of foreign employees to the competent labour authorities.

In cases where a foreign employee was employed across multiple localities, employers also had to report electronically within three working days of the employee commencing work at the new location. Decree 219, however, abolishes these reporting obligations, further simplifying administrative procedures for employers.

Transitional provisions: Decree 219 stipulates that WPs or WPEs issued before Decree 219s effective date remain valid until their expiration, and the WP/WPE applications submitted prior to the effective date of Decree 219 shall be proceeded under the former regulations.

In conclusion, Decree 219 has introduced noteworthy modifications to the regulatory framework governing foreign employees in Vietnam, pursuing to facilitate a more efficient foreign labour management system and boost Vietnams appeal to foreign investors.

However, certain regulatory provisions remain open, particularly those concerning occupations and working positions in prioritised development sectors and the eleven service sectors applicable to intra-corporate transfers.

These areas require further guidance from the pertinent ministries to ensure effective implementation and enforcement in practice. As such, it is essential to closely monitor the issuance of relevant guidelines to fully understand legislative requirements and better prepare for compliance with Decree 219.

Personal data decree poses compliance challenges Robert Trong Tran, partner, EY Vietnam Cybersecurity Services Co., Ltd.; and Thach Thi-Cam Tran, senior manager, EY Law Vietnam Limited Liability Company, delve into the challenges businesses are facing over enforcement of Decree 13 on personal data protection, and suggest recommendations to cope with compliance challenges.

Decree enhances capital access and transparency The government has issued Decree No.20/2025/ND-CP which alters provisions of a 2020 decree on tax administration for enterprises engaging in related-party transactions. Dinh Mai Hanh, tax partner and national transfer pricing leader at Deloitte Vietnam, spoke to VIRs Ngan Vu about the decrees role in enhancing access to financing for enterprises in Vietnam.
A British Airways cabin crew member who spent close to 40 years in the air has won a discrimination claim after losing her job when she became too anxious to fly.

BA cabin crew

Ms Clifford, who joined the airline in 1983 and rose to inflight manager, developed stress and anxiety during the Covid pandemic which meant she could no longer carry out her flying duties.

She was put on furlough in April 2020, later moving onto sick leave, before being offered a position as cabin crew two ranks below her previous post  a move that led her to file a grievance.

In September 2022 she began a phased return to work at the Heathrow Help Hub for two days a week, but said she felt overwhelmed when this was increased to three. The long commute to Heathrow and the busy, noisy surroundings were, she explained, having a serious impact on her mental health.

Ms Clifford said her situation was dismissed by some managers as "just a little bit of anxiety", as reported by the Express.

She asked to be based at Gatwick Airport to cut her travel time and requested a ground role for two days each week. But by September 2022 she was warned that if she did not declare herself fit to fly, a termination date would be set.

The tribunal ruled in her favour, stating that BA should have recognised her decades of service and made greater efforts to secure her a position that did not involve flying.

Judge Emma Hawksworth said: "The claimant needed a phased return in a ground duties placement before returning to her full contractual flying role.

"She remained unable, because of anxiety and depression, to return to her flying role when required to do so by the respondent at the end of the resourcing and recruitment placement.

"A reasonable employer would have given the claimant a longer and more suitable phased return and would, in line with its policy, have considered redeployment to a ground based role before deciding to dismiss her."
Denbighshire man caught with 7,000 in rare bird feathers

A 68-year-old Denbighshire man has been sentenced for offences linked to the illegal trade of a protected bird species.

David Pugh, of Primrose Hill, St George, appeared before Llandudno Magistrates Court on Wednesday 6 August, where he pleaded guilty to three offences under the Control of Trade in Endangered Species Regulations 2018 (COTES).

In January, Border Force officers at Birmingham Airport intercepted two parcels addressed to North Wales. The packages contained 60 grey jungle fowl capes without the required import permits.

The endangered birds are valued for their feathers, which are used in fly fishing, and are protected under COTES.

Following an investigation by North Wales Police Rural Crime Team and the National Wildlife Crime Unit, Pugh was arrested. Officers searching his home found further capes worth almost 7,000.

The court ordered Pugh to pay fines and costs totalling 1,165. A forfeiture and destruction order was made for all seized items.

Sergeant Peter Evans of the North Wales Police Rural Crime Team said: COTES was set up to protect endangered species and ensures this type of criminality does not threaten the survival of vulnerable wildlife, or fuel global trafficking networks.

We are determined to bring perpetrators like Pugh to justice, who exploit endangered species for their own financial gain.

This investigation would not have been possible without the support from the National Wildlife Crime Unit, who played a vital part in Pughs sentencing.

Kevin Lacks-Kelly, Head of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, said: Illegal wildlife trade is alive and kicking in the UK.

This case is a clear example of how people will exploit protected species for financial gain.
Historic Ladies of Llangollen silverware going under the hammer

Historic silverware directly from the table of the notorious Ladies of Llangollen, will go under the hammer later this month.

Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby captivated Regency-era Britain with their lifelong partnership, defying social conventions and sparking intrigue across the country.

Their story, which inspired the acclaimed 2019 BBC series Gentleman Jack, attracted the attention of cultural luminaries including Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, the Duke of Wellington, Josiah Wedgwood, and William Wordsworth, who famously penned a sonnet in their honour.

A 23-piece harlequin silver cutlery set, complete with ten additional pieces and bearing the initials of both women, will go under the hammer at the Cheffins Jewellery, Silver & Watches Sale on August, 21.

The set, which was used by the Ladies during their time at Plas Newydd, their famed gothic home in Llangollen,, carries a pre-sale estimate of 800 to 1,200.

It is being sold by the descendant of Mr Richard Jebb, who bought the silver at the Plas Newydd estate auction in 1832, following the deaths of The Ladies.

Richard Jebb lived in Chirk and was the land agent to the Trevor family at Brynkinalt Estate, where the ladies were tenants before moving to Plas Newydd.

The story of The Ladies captivated Georgian Britain. Both from aristocratic Irish families, Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby met in 1768 and formed a romantic relationship.

They fled their homes in County Kilkenny, Ireland, to Wales in 1778 to escape the social pressures of conventional marriages, and in 1780 purchased Plas Newydd, a large house in North Wales, which they redesigned in a Gothic style.

They lived there together as a couple for 50 years, along with Sarahs servant, and quickly became some of the most notorious members of Regency society at the time.

Eleanor Butler died on 2 June 1829 at the age of 90. Sarah Ponsonby died two years later on 9 December 1831, aged 76.

Both are buried together at St Collens Church, Llangollen, and Plas Newydd is now a museum dedicated to the life and times of The Ladies.

Steven Collins, Head of Jewellery, Silver & Watches at Cheffins said: The Ladies of Llangollens unconventional relationship captured Georgian imagination.

This is a tale of true romance, where against all odds, two women broke through societal norms to live together in what is now one of the most fascinating museums in the UK.

These items come with a cast-iron provenance, having been bought directly from the estate and then handed down through the generations.

Also, the fact that each of the pieces is marked with The Ladies iconic joint initials helps to make this lot incredibly desirable.

Having never appeared on the open market before; I am confident that they will be of great interest to fans of Regency history and also cultural institutions throughout the UK.

It is a privilege to be able to offer these important pieces to the market, and this sale represents a chance to acquire not just fine Georgian silverware, but a powerful symbol of love, legacy, and defiance that continues to resonate nearly 250 years later.
Plaid Cymru calls for community hospital at derelict Wrexham school site

Plaid Cymru campaigners are urging health chiefs and councillors to work together to open a community hospital at a long-derelict school site in Wrexham.

The Groves, on Chester Road, has sat vacant since the closure of the secondary school in 2006.

Wrexham Council had earmarked the building for demolition to make way for two new schools. Those plans were halted in 2016 when the Welsh Government granted it listed status.

Plaid Cymru councillors have argued redeveloping the site could help ease pressure on Wrexham Maelor Hospital by providing step-down care for patients who no longer require acute beds.

They are now calling on the local authority and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to work together and redevelop the derelict site.

Marc Jones, Plaid Cymru group leader on Wrexham Council, said creating a hospital in the heart of the city centre would bring new life to a derelict site.

The Groves site has lain derelict for more than a decade and there has been a lot of speculation about what it could be used for, said Cllr Jones.

Various schemes have fallen through and theres no sign of anything positive being done with this important town-centre site.

At the same time, we all recognise that the local district general hospital, the Maelor, is under huge pressures  in part this is because of a lack of community options to move people out of acute beds.

Cllr Carrie Harper said a community hospital could also help reduce long waits for ambulances outside A&E and ease parking congestion at the Maelor.

Obviously there are challenges to delivering this kind of project, said Cllr Harper.

Theres the initial cost  a similar plan for a community hospital at the old Alex site in Rhyl is estimated to cost 102 million  but this is the sort of capital investment we need to see in our communities.

Its an investment because it provides much-needed breathing space for the over-stretched Maelor.

Cllr Harper also suggested working with Wrexham University, which trains nurses, paramedics and radiographers, to offer graduates guaranteed jobs at the new facility.

Local ward councillor Becca Martin said the proposal could improve patient flow through the Maelor and bring life to a neglected site.

She said: Being able to free up these beds by utilising the site in this way will hopefully result in a faster and smoother experience for all those needing hospital care.

I would also welcome the development of a site that has been left dormant and neglected for far too long.

Cllr Jones added that a training and educational element could meet the sites existing covenant, while integrating health and social care services.

He said: Better healthcare has a beneficial knock-on effect for the councils social care commitments  these should be integrated seamlessly anyway.

More minor injuries, rehabilitation and preventative work could be located at a new community hospital rather than trying to shoehorn all services on one limited site.

Its an opportunity to do something that people can see will have a beneficial impact for hundreds of people who dont need to be in an acute bed and it brings a derelict building back into use.

Were putting this proposal forward in the hope that both the health board and council will respond positively and look to develop the site for our mutual benefit. Its an idea that deserves to be explored further.

Speaking to Wrexham.com earlier this year Cllr Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said he was hopeful that a solution for the former school could be found.

He said: There are always rumours about, of course, but there are ongoing conversations that were having internally with some organisations.

Im not at liberty to share that with you yet, but we are working in partnership, and hopefully this time, well find a solution for it.
Wales-wide programme helps residents live independently for longer

A Wales-wide scheme is helping thousands of older and disabled people to live more independently and safely in their own homes for longer.

Care & Repair works to ensure that older people have homes that suit their needs, supporting around 40,000 households every year and delivering around 25,000 adaptations as part of its package of support.

The charity has benefited from support from the Welsh Government, which has allocated an additional 5.5 million in capital funding and more than 1.25 million in revenue to the Independent Living Programme in 2025-26.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, recently visited Mr and Mrs Watkins, who have been receiving support from Bridgend Care & Repair after being referred by their GP.

This includes the installation of a range of practical adaptations throughout the home, such as a new stair rail, improved lighting on the stairs to reduce the risk of falls  particularly important due to Mr Watkins sight loss  and a floor-to-ceiling rail outside the shower to aid transfers.

Essential repairs were also carried out on a faulty front bedroom window that had been letting in cold air and draughts.

Beyond physical adaptations, Care & Repair has provided wraparound support services, assisting the couple with claiming benefits they were entitled to, a successful Blue Badge application, registering them with the National Grids Priority Service Register for vulnerable customers, and providing falls prevention advice.

Through referral to Care & Repairs Managing Better service, further support was arranged including access to RNIB talking books, a low vision assessment, and signposting to local support groups.

The Cabinet Secretary said: Home adaptations can be a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable members of our communities, and it was wonderful to meet with Mr and Mrs Watkins and hear firsthand how Care & Repair has helped them to feel safer in their home.

The work that Care & Repair carries out across Wales is invaluable, and Im pleased that with the additional funding weve allocated to support independent living programmes this financial year were able to help more people live with greater independence and dignity for as long as possible.

Chris Jones, Chief Executive of Care & Repair Cymru said: We are extremely grateful for the additional funding provided by the Welsh Government this year.

The work we do across Wales to adapt, repair and make older peoples own homes accessible, safe and warm truly improves their quality of life, independence and well-being.

Our work also reduces pressures and demand in the NHS and social care by helping reduce unnecessary hospital admissions, enabling quicker discharges from hospital, and supporting older people to live in dignity at home.

We have estimated that the extra funds weve received will help us support an additional 5,000-6,000 people every year.

The couple the Cabinet Secretary met with are typical of the people we help, where we not only improve their living conditions, but ensure they claim all their benefit entitlements, helping them pay expensive food and energy bills during these financially difficult times, improving their overall well-being.
Clara Amfos depression led to her quitting her BBC Radio 1 show.

Clara Amfos depression led to her quitting her BBC Radio 1 show

The 41-year-old presenter, who spent a decade as a DJ and regularly fronts shows including the BBCs Glastonbury coverage, revealed on the Happy Place podcast the toll her career had taken on her mental health.

She said about the health struggles that led her to quit Radio 1: I was burnt out, I wasnt taking care of myself properly and I think I was a bit overwhelmed by lifes injustices.

I just wasnt feeling great and I was in a bit of a negative headspace.

The start of 2023, I was in the flipping trenches. I was feeling really, really depressed sort of mid-2023 and I took some time off radio, and just had to have a little reset. That is when I decided I was going to leave my show.

Clara, first joined Radio 1 as a DJ and later hosted the Live Lounge, The Official Chart on Radio 1, and her 1Xtra programme.

In her interview with Fearne Cotton on the podcast, Clara also addressed the pressures of working in high-profile broadcasting.

She added: I had mixed reactions. Obviously our bosses, who are lovely, were like But why?

Im one of these people where I am so passionate about what I do that I never want to resent anything, I dont want anything to feel like its forced or a chore.

And I want to be able to listen to music always as a fan, rather than as a business, and I want to be able to talk to people on a human level without thinking, Got to get that viral interview clip.

Clara left Radio 1 in 2023, marking the end of a decade-long chapter that included championing new artists through her hottest record feature.

At the time, she said: I'm so proud of the work I've been able to do on every show, whether it's been from the 8th floor, a city in the UK or a pop star's house across the pond. Im grateful to have had the ears of the listeners who have consistently shown up for me.

Im enamoured by everyone I've had the privilege of working alongside for each and every broadcast.

Im energised and excited for my next chapter as part of the network and beyond.
Local law enforcement agencies from different jurisdictions are working together to put a stop to human trafficking in our community.

The Regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) Team is comprised of detectives from Reno Police Department, Sparks Police Department, and Washoe County School District Police Department.

Just last month, the squad used undercover detectives to crack down on solicitors and it ended with six people being cited for solicitation of prostitution.

"Reno is a somewhat of a large city, with almost at 300,000 people, and with that, you are going to see some aspect of the commercial sex trade here," said Chris Johnson, Public Information Officer, Reno Police Department.

Johnson is not currently on the team, but was from 2020 to 2024. He does want to clarify that prostitution in most Nevada counties is illegal.

"Reno has a history, with brothels being around Reno, not in Washoe County themselves," the officer said. "So, there is a misconception that prostitution is legal in Nevada. In Washoe County, as well as many other counties, it is illegal, so you cannot purchase another human being here in Washoe County for sex."

Johnson says trafficking can happen in many ways, from the streets, to online, and even massage parlors.

Earlier this year, the team shut down a massage parlor in south Reno.

Johnson says its not just the traffickers the team targets.

"The HEAT team aggressively goes after the Johns or the sex purchasers, as well as the traffickers while trying to get the victims help," he said. "So, when you look at it, it's a problem of economics. So, if you didn't have somebody willing to purchase another human being for sex, you wouldn't have somebody trying to recruit, groom and sell an individual for sex."

Johnson said there's a common trend with a lot of victims.

"What's interesting, what we found, is a lot of individuals who are being sold as victims in the commercial sex trade were actually, a lot of them were sexually exploited as children, whether it was online or through family members or acquaintances," the officer said.

The team says things are very fluid and unpredictable.

"We saw traffickers from all walks of life," Johnson said. "You saw sex purchasers from all walks of life. You also saw victims from all walks of life, whether they were teenagers, through adulthood."

For parents, Johnson says they should always be aware what is happening in their child's lives.

"As parents, the biggest thing is to have an be an active participant in your child's life as well as their online life," he said. "Understand who they're talking to online, understand who they're communicating with, what apps they're using. Just because your kid has a cell phone with one phone number, there are applications you can download so that you have three, four or five different phone numbers on that same phone where they can communicate with other individuals without you knowing."

Organizations like Safe Embrace say they are also seeing issues with trafficking on their end and feel it's often under-reported.

"A third of our clients that we help have had incidents of human trafficking," said Leslie Berg, Client Services Manager, Safe Embrace.

Berg says any victim is welcome to walk through their doors. She says Safe Embrace is hosting Project 86, which is a program where they go to different businesses to educate them on signs of grooming and trafficking.

"I think education is going to be a huge weapon against human trafficking in our community," Berg said.

If you are a victim or know someone who is, Safe Embrace has a 24-hour hotline if you need assistance. It's (775) 322-3466. If you feel like it's an emergency do not hesitate to call 911.
The University of Nevada, Reno has launched PACK AI, a student-driven Artificial Intelligence initiative designed to equip students and faculty with skills, resources, and tools to integrate AI into academics, research, and campus operations.

The program aims to ensure students gain competencies to compete in their fields, support faculty in integrating AI into teaching and research, and improve the Universitys efficiency through AI-driven business processes.

The University of Nevada, our states original land grant institution, has been a visionary leader in education, research, and community engagement for over 150 years, University President Brian Sandoval said. PACK AI is our next institutional imperative that provides transformative educational opportunities for our faculty and students, groundbreaking research that leads our state and nation, and provides the research and workforce of the future for our region to excel in economic development.

Beginning this semester, incoming students will complete an introduction to AI module during their NevadaFIT experience.

The module will address AI usage, ethics, academic policies, and guidance on incorporating AI into coursework.

First-year and transfer students will also receive Microsoft CoPilot and Apple Intelligence on their University-issued iPads through the Digital Wolf Pack Initiative.

Faculty and staff will have access to AI resources, including computing tools for research, personalized learning enhancements, streamlined grading and scheduling systems, and adaptive content for different learning styles.

The University is also expanding its use of AI tools for data analytics and operational efficiency.

PACK AI will launch with a presentation by Dr. Joel Davis, Executive Director of the David F. Miller Retail Center at the University of Florida, on Sept. 4 and 5. Davis has 25 years of experience in analytics, AI, and business operations, with current research focusing on integrating analytics and AI into corporate decision-making and adoption strategies.

Additional PACK AI components include:

The Lake Tahoe campus is offering a one-credit introduction to AI course as part of its fall weekend schedule

Nevada Online is developing a three-course certificate in AI covering introduction, ethics, and applications

Workshops through the Advancements in Teaching Excellence program, led by Dr. Sarah Cummings, on using generative AI in classes

Opportunities from the Office of Research and Innovation for faculty to expand AI-related research across disciplines

A campus-wide working group of faculty and staff is reviewing policies, identifying best practices, and recommending approaches to incorporate AI opportunities University-wide.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  National Guard troops repeatedly rehearsed their role in an operation at a Los Angeles park intended as a show of force against undocumented people and those protesting the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, a deputy commanding general testified Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who commanded Guard troops in Los Angeles, was testifying at a trial to determine whether the Trump administration violated the Posse Comitatus Act when it deployed the soldiers and U.S. Marines to Southern California this summer. The 1878 law generally prohibits a president from using the military to police domestic affairs.

Sherman said the deployment of federal agents on horseback and on foot to MacArthur Park in a neighborhood with a large immigrant population was initially planned for Father's Day, June 15. But the operation was moved to July 7 after he raised concerns the park could be crowded, he said.

We assessed that there could be a large amount of people in the park (on Fathers Day), which could quickly overwhelm Border Patrol, Sherman testified.

Sherman said the decision to shift the timing of the operation came after discussion among the National Guard, the U.S. Northern Command, the Border Patrol, Department of Defense Secretary Peter Hegseth and Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.

The Guard troops were deployed to protect the perimeter and were instructed only to exit their vehicles if there was a direct threat to federal agents, he said.

All troops remained in their vehicles during the brief but mighty show of force. Sherman said the operation took just 20 minutes because it had been rehearsed multiple times. The Department of Homeland Security hasn't said if anyone was arrested.

Sherman testified during the second day of a three-day trial on whether President Donald Trumps deployment of 4,700 armed forces to Los Angeles following protests over immigration raids this summer violated the Posse Comitatus Act. All but about 300 Guard troops have since left Los Angeles.

Sherman testified that he also raised concerns that military vehicles would be stationed along Wilshire Boulevard, which traverses the park, instead of staying in the perimeter during the so-called Operation Excalibur."

After he raised his concerns, Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrols El Centro sector chief in charge of the immigration crackdown in Los Angeles, questioned his loyalty, Sherman told the court Monday.

On July 7, federal agents, many of them in tactical gear, walked and rode their horses around the park, which was nearly empty because word had spread of a potential raid.

LA Mayor Karen Bass and Gov. Gavin Newsom called it a political stunt and spectacle meant to intimidate the citys immigrant communities.

Trump has pushed the bounds of typical military activity on domestic soil, including through the creation of militarized zones along the U.S.-Mexico border. On Monday, the president said he was deploying the National Guard across Washington, D.C., and taking over the citys police department in hopes of reducing crime, even as the mayor has noted crime is falling in the nations capital.

California is asking Judge Charles Breyer to order the Trump administration to return control of the remaining troops to the state and to stop the federal government from using military troops in California to execute or assist in the execution of federal law or any civilian law enforcement functions by any federal agent or officer.

Troops were in LA to provide security, US lawyer says

Eric Hamilton, a deputy assistant attorney general, said in his closing statement Tuesday that the troops did not break the Posse Comitatus Act because they were not enforcing federal law and were deployed for a purely protective function.

The president federalized guardsmen and also deployed the Marines after multiple days of violent attacks on federal law enforcement officers and federal property. The deployment was a response to that violence and a recognition that federal law-enforcement officers and federal buildings needed additional protection," Hamilton said.

California says Trump administration broke the law

California Deputy Attorney General Meghan Strong told the court the Trump administration the troops went beyond providing protection to federal agents and federal buildings. The troops, she said, set up roadblocks and perimeters that restricted civilian movement, blocked access to public streets, detained civilians and engaged in a militaristic display of force in a public park.

The Trump administration, she said, broke the law and used the army to illegally enforce civilian law, and operate as a single force with federal immigration officers who often don military garb.

Defendants have used that army to pervade the activities of civilian law enforcement and strike fear into the hearts of Californians," Strong said. In doing so, defendants have disregarded Americas deep-rooted policy against military execution of the laws and the Posse Comitatus Act prohibitions.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that there will be very severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop his war in Ukraine after their Friday summit in Alaska, though he did not say what those consequences might be.

Trumps comment came after a virtual meeting with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who told the group that Putin is bluffing about seeking peace. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the leaders had a constructive and good discussion with Trump.

Here's the latest:

After Trump ramps up DC law enforcement presence some residents protest

Residents in one Washington neighborhood lined up Wednesday to protest the increased presence after the White House said the number of National Guard troops in the capital would ramp up and federal officers would be on the streets around the clock.

After law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint along the busy 14th Street Northwest corridor, hecklers shouted, Go home, fascists and other insults. Some protesters stood at the intersection before the checkpoint and urged drivers to turn away from it.

The action intensified a few days after the presidents unprecedented announcement that his administration would take over the citys police department for at least a month.

 Read more about the larger law enforcement presence and protests

Brazil health minister says his governments program criticized by Rubio will survive

Alexandre Padilha made the comments via social media shortly after the Trump administration stepped up sanctions targeting a Cuban government program that sends Cuban doctors abroad, including to Brazil. U.S. officials say the initiative amounts to forced labor.

This program saves lives and it is approved by those who matter most; the Brazilian people, Padilha said of Mais Medicos (meaning More Doctors in Portuguese).

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he was imposing visa restrictions on an unspecified number of Brazilian, Grenadan and other officials due to what he described as complicit third-country government officials and individuals responsible for Cubas exploitative labor export program.

Brazils government says Mais Medicos currently has almost 25,000 medical professionals operating in Brazil but did not provide figures on how many of those are Cuban.

What to know about the US-Russia summit in Alaska

Its happening where East meets West, in a place familiar to both countries as a Cold War front line of missile defense, radar outposts and intelligence gathering.

Whether it can lead peace in Ukraine after more than 3 1/2 years of war remains to be seen.

It takes place Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson outside Anchorage, according to a White House official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning. It played a key role in the Cold War in monitoring and deterring the Soviet Union.

Its Putins first U.S. trip since 2015, for the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Because the U.S. isnt a member of the International Criminal Court, which has issued a warrant for Putin on war crimes accusations, its under no obligation to arrest him.

 Read more on things to know about the meeting between Trump and Putin

 Dasha Litvinova and Michelle L. Price

Judge weighs whether Trump violated federal law by deploying National Guard to Southern California

The three-day trial over whether the administration broke the law by sending the Guard Guard troops to accompany immigration agents on raids concluded Wednesday.

California has argued that the deployment violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which generally prohibits military enforcement of domestic laws.

Lawyers for the administration said the law does not apply because Trump called up the Guard under an authority that allows deployment if the president is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States.

Federal and military officials were called to testify, and the trials third day largely focused on weedy arguments about the 1878 law and whether the court even had a role in determining the limits of presidential power.

Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard members and later 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June after protests in response to immigration raids around the city.

NY attorney general sues Zelles parent company after Trump administration drops similar case

Letitia James, a Democrat, sued Early Warning Services in state court, alleging that it failed to protect users from fraud by not including critical safety features in Zelles design.

Earlier this year the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau abandoned a similar case after Trump fired its leader and gutted the agency.

In a statement, James office noted that its suit came after the CFPB dropped its lawsuit following a change in the federal administration.

No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam, James said. I look forward to getting justice for the New Yorkers who suffered because of Zelles security failures.

Zelle called the lawsuit a political stunt to generate press, not progress.

James has been a leading antagonist of Trump and sued him dozens of times. Last week AP and other outlets reported that the Justice Department subpoenaed her as part of an investigation into whether she violated Trumps civil rights.

Leaving a top administration post? Trump may have an ambassadorship for you

Diplomacy may be soft power, but in this administration its also a soft landing.

National security adviser Mike Waltz was nominated as U.N. ambassador after he mistakenly added a journalist to a Signal chat discussing military plans.

Then Trump tapped IRS Commissioner Billy Long as envoy to Iceland after Long contradicted administration messaging less than two months on the job.

And last weekend he named State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce as deputy U.N. representative after she struggled to gel with Secretary of State Marco Rubios team.

The appointments can be viewed as consolation prizes for leaving a high-profile post following rocky tenures. They also reflect the degree to which Trump is trying to keep loyalists close, even if their earlier placements were ill-fitting.

Breaking with his former reality TV show The Apprentice, Trump is not telling his appointees Youre fired! but instead offering them another way to stay in his administration.

 Read more about ambassadorships for administration officials

Mexico says 26 capos sent to US were requested by Trump administration, not part of tariff talks

Mexico sent the alleged cartel figures to face justice in the United States because the administration requested them and Mexico did not want them to continue running their illicit businesses from Mexican prisons, officials said Wednesday.

The mass transfer was not, however, part of wider negotiations as Mexico seeks to avoid higher tariffs threatened by Trump, the officials said.

These transfers are not only a strategic measure to ensure public safety but also reflect a firm determination to prevent these criminals from continuing to operate from within prisons and to break up their networks of influence, Mexican Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch said in a news conference on Wednesday.

The prisoners were wanted by U.S. authorities for their roles in drug trafficking and other crimes. In February 29 other cartel leaders were sent to the U.S.

 Read more about the cartel figures being expelled from Mexico

Brazils Lula announces $5.5 billion in credits for exporters hit by US tariffs

The Sovereign Brazil plan also contains other measures in response to 50% tariffs imposed by Trump on several products from the South American nation.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the plan, which includes a bill to be sent to Congress, is a first step to help exporters.

The other measures include postponing tax charges for companies affected by the tariffs, providing 5 billion reais ($930,000) in tax credits to small- and medium-size companies until the end of 2026 and expanding access to insurance against cancelled orders.

The plan also incentivizes public purchases of items that could not be exported to the United States.

Brazils government is also granting a one-year extension of tax credits for companies that import items so they can produce goods for exportation.

Trump rolls back Biden-era antitrust order

The president has revoked an executive order signed by President Joe Biden that was intended to better foster competition through stronger antitrust enforcement.

Trumps new order nullifies the Promoting Competition in the American Economy action of 2021.

The move comes as part of a broader push to promote deregulation while watering down  or wiping out entirely  anti-monopoly protections.

Guard troops expected to ramp up DC missions Thursday

National Guard officials say they expect troops to start doing more missions in Washington that day because orders and plans are still being developed.

The White House forecast an increased presence of troops Wednesday night. A Guard spokesman said the significant increase was at the Guards armory, where troops are staging.

The spokesman, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the planning process, said the numbers are getting closer to the 800 troops that the Trump announced Monday that he was activating.

Neither Army nor District of Columbia National Guard officials have been able to describe the training backgrounds of the troops who have reported for duty so far.

While some Guard members are military police, and thus better suited to a law-enforcement mission, others likely hold jobs that would have offered little training in dealing with civilians or law enforcement.

Make space great again?

Trump has signed an executive order meant to reduce and streamline regulations in an effort to make the U.S. commercial space industry more competitive.

It calls for the creation of an Office of Space Commerce within the Secretary of Transportation.

The order also seeks to enhance American greatness in space by enabling a competitive launch marketplace that can substantially increase commercial space activities in the next five years.

It directs authorities to ease requirements for commercial license and permit appeals for U.S.-based space operators and to reduce or eliminate many environmental reviews.

Trump administration ordered to restore some withheld grant funding to UCLA

U.S. District Judge Rita F. Lin ruled that the administration must restore millions of dollars in National Science Foundation grants to the University of California, Los Angeles.

Lin ruled late Tuesday that the research grants were suspended for reasons she had already ruled arbitrary and capricious and gave the administration until Aug. 19 to show compliance or explain why it has not restored the funding.

It was not immediately clear how much could be returned to UCLA. The schools chancellor said last week that the administration has pulled $584 million in grants from various federal agencies. The judges ruling applies specifically to NSF grants.

The funding was frozen as part of a wider pressure campaign targeting universities that Trump says are out of step with his political agenda.

Trump administration fires all members of transportation advisory committees

The Transportation Department dismissed all the members of its various Federal Advisory Committees as part of a broad effort to remake the groups of industry, labor and government leaders who helped draft new regulations and proposals.

The department said it came in response to a presidential executive order. Labor groups expressed concern.

A DOT spokesperson said many of the committees have not held a single meeting in over a year, while others have not produced recommendations or advisory reports. Worse, some committees have lost sight of the mission, and have been overrun with individuals whose sole focus is their radical DEI and climate agenda.

The AFL-CIOs Transportation Trades Department coalition of unions said the committees play an important role helping ensure safety at agencies like the Federal Railroad Administration. A spokeswoman said it is crucial that all those affected by safety issues are represented.

Federal agents will patrol the streets 24/7 in Washington, White House says

Officials said the number of National Guard troops will ramp up and federal officers will be out around the clock.

The changes starting Wednesday night come days after the president made the unprecedented announcement that his administration would take over the police department for at least a month.

Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser is walking a political tightrope. She has called the takeover an authoritarian push but also framed the infusion of officers as a boost to public safety.

Hundreds of federal law enforcement and city police officers who patrolled Tuesday night made 43 arrests, compared with about two dozen the night before.

Councilmember Christina Henderson downplayed the arrest reports as a bunch of traffic stops and said the administration is seeking to disguise how unnecessary the intervention is.

Im looking at this list of arrests, and they sound like a normal Saturday night in any big city, Henderson said.

 Read more about the intervention

Administration steps up sanctions against Cuban program sending doctors to developing countries

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions on an unspecified number of Cuban, Brazilian, Grenadan and other officials, including some in Africa and former employees of the Pan American Health Organization.

Rubio said they are being targeted for their complicity in the Cuban regimes medical mission scheme in which medical professionals are rented by other countries at high prices and most of the revenue is kept by the Cuban authorities.

None of the officials, except for two Brazilian health ministry employees, were named in the statements.

Rubio accused them of being responsible for or involved in abetting the Cuban regimes coercive labor export scheme, which exploits Cuban medical workers through forced labor.

Rubio previously imposed similar sanctions on other officials after announcing the new policy to punish Cuba and countries that accept Cuban health care workers in February.

Trump administrations lawsuit against all of Marylands federal judges meets skepticism in court

U.S. District Judge Thomas Cullen questioned why it was necessary for the administration to sue the states entire federal bench over an order pausing the immediate deportation of migrants challenging their removals.

Cullen did not issue a ruling following a hearing in Baltimore, but he expressed skepticism about the legal maneuver, which attorneys for the Maryland judges called completely unprecedented.

All of Marylands 15 federal judges are named as defendants in the suit, a highly unusual circumstance that reflects the administrations aggressive response to courts that slow or stop its policies.

At issue in the lawsuit is a judicial order barring the administration from deporting any immigrants seeking review of their detention until 4 p.m. on the second business day after their habeas corpus petition is filed.

The Justice Department says that impedes Trumps authority to enforce immigration laws.

Attorneys for the Maryland judges counter that the suit aims to limit the power of the judiciary.

Indiana Democrats warn they may be next in line in redistricting fights

Rep. Cherrish Pryor, a Democrat from Indiana, warned Wednesday that the Texas redistricting fight would have impacts far beyond the Lone Star state, saying while Texas is on the frontlines of this fight, Indiana may be next in line.

President Donald Trump has been pressuring Republican-run states, including Indiana, to redraw Congressional boundaries and dispatched Vice President JD Vance to the state this month to call for a new federal caucus.

Rep. Ed DeLaney, from Indiana, decried Vances visit to Indiana, telling the Associated Press it was insulting and embarrassing.

Never in my life did I think the vice president of the United States would come to my state and ask them to shoplift two districts, he said.

DeLaney also said he has seen potential drafts of redistricting maps for Indiana floating around and said he sensed hesitancy about them from his Republican colleagues. Theres always the risk, he said, that redistricting would backfire for the party that calls for it.

If they have any brains, theyd look at this and ask How does this play out for me? He said. Every one of them won the district they have, and they won them fairly easily.
Egypt said Tuesday it was working with fellow Gaza mediators Qatar and the United States to broker a 60-day truce, as part of a renewed push to end the Israel-Hamas war.

Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty made the announcement at a press conference in Cairo, as two Palestinian sources told AFP that a senior Hamas delegation was due to meet Egyptian officials for talks on Wednesday.

Diplomacy aimed at securing an elusive ceasefire and hostage release deal in the 22-month-old war has stalled for weeks, after the latest round of negotiations broke down in July.

Abdelatty said that "we are working very hard now in full cooperation with the Qataris and Americans", aiming for "a ceasefire for 60 days, with the release of some hostages and some Palestinian detainees, and the flow of humanitarian and medical assistance to Gaza without restrictions, without conditions".

One of the Palestinian sources earlier told AFP that the mediators were working "to formulate a new comprehensive ceasefire agreement proposal" that would include the release of all remaining hostages in Gaza "in one batch".

Mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt and the United States have failed to secure a breakthrough since a short-lived truce earlier this year.

The Hamas delegation expected in Cairo, led by the group's chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, is scheduled to meet Egyptian officials on Wednesday to "discuss the latest developments" in negotiations, said the second Palestinian source.

News of the potential truce talks came as Gaza's civil defence agency said Israel has intensified its air strikes on Gaza City in recent days, following a government decision to expand the war there.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has not provided an exact timetable on when forces may enter the area, but civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal said on Tuesday that air raids had already begun increasing over the past three days.

Bassal said the neighbourhoods of Zeitun and Sabra have been hit "with very heavy air strikes targeting civilian homes".

"For the third consecutive day, the Israeli occupation is intensifying its bombardment" using "bombs, drones, and also highly explosive munitions that cause massive destruction", he said.

Bassal said that Israeli strikes across the territory, including on Gaza City, killed at least 33 people on Tuesday.

"The bombardment has been extremely intense for the past two days. With every strike, the ground shakes," said Majed al-Hosary, a resident of Gaza City's Zeitun.

"There are martyrs under the rubble that no one can reach because the shelling hasn't stopped."

An Israeli air strike on Sunday killed five Al Jazeera employees and a freelance reporter outside a Gaza City hospital, with Israel accusing one of the slain Al Jazeera correspondents of being a Hamas militant.

Israel has faced mounting criticism over the war, which was triggered by Palestinian militant group Hamas's October 2023 attack.

UN-backed experts have warned of widespread famine unfolding in the territory, where Israel has drastically curtailed the amount of humanitarian aid it allowed in.

Netanyahu is under mounting pressure to secure the release of the remaining hostages -- 49 people including 27 the Israeli military says are dead -- as well as over his plans to expand the war.

The Israeli premier has vowed to keep on with or without the backing of Israel's allies.

Hamas's 2023 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Israel's offensive has killed at least 61,599 Palestinians, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, whose toll the United Nations considers reliable.
In early 2005, fresh off reelection, President George W. Bush went all in on his proposal to fix Social Security by allowing workers to divert the payroll taxes that fund the program into personal retirement accounts.

In his State of the Union address that year, Bush said his plan would save Social Security for future generations by encouraging workers to invest that tax money in the stock market.

Members only

AARP disagreed. The nations largest advocacy group representing older Americans joined other critics who said the proposal would essentially dismantle the bedrock retirement security program and subject older Americans to the whims of Wall Street in their golden years.

The whole concept of Social Security was at stake, says Eric Kingson, a professor emeritus at Syracuse University who has studied and advocated for Social Security for decades.

Join Our Fight to Protect Social Security Youve worked hard and paid into Social Security with every paycheck. Heres what you can do to help keep Social Security strong: Add your name and pledge to protect Social Security.

Find out how AARP is fighting to keep Social Security strong.

Get expert advice on Social Security benefits and answers to common questions.

AARP is your fierce defender on the issues that matter to people 50-plus. Become a member or renew your membership today.

AARP was ready for the fight  armed with polling data, detailed counterarguments and a blizzard of TV and radio ads. Another potent weapon: its members, estimated to number about 36 million at the time, who flooded the phone lines of their members of Congress to express their opposition.

We will put just about everything we have into it, William D. Novelli, then AARPs CEO, said at the time.

That fight is perhaps the most high-profile demonstration of AARPs advocacy firepower on Social Security. But over its 67-year history, the organization has pressed policymakers in Washington to tackle dozens of issues related to the program  from the 1972 passage of automatic annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to this years fight to preserve phone service for beneficiaries.

It is the most important issue that we work on, because it is the ticket to financial security for people, says Bill Sweeney, AARPs senior vice president for government affairs. When lawmakers are working on housing, transportation or health care costs, Sweeney says, he tells them Social Security is all of those issues wrapped into one.

Protesters hold signs during a rally against Social Security privatization March 10, 2005 in Louisville, Kentucky. President George W. Bush visited the city as part of a tour to promote the plan. Mike Simons/Getty Images

An unexpected COLA fight

Support for Social Security is sky-high today, with 96 percent of Americans saying its an important program and 74 percent calling it one of the most important, according to an AARP poll released in July.

But the program was very vulnerable to attack after President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed it into law in August 1935, says Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal and author of Social Security: History and Politics from the New Deal to the Privatization Debate.

Thats mainly because in the first years of the program, the government was collecting payroll taxes from tens of millions of workers but few people were receiving any benefits yet, Beland says. By the 1950s, however, there was a bipartisan consensus supporting Social Security as the programs reach among older Americans grew and it expanded to cover retirees spouses and survivors and people with disabilities.
LOCKSLEY TARGETS RARE EARTH POTENTIAL IN MOJAVE NORTH BLOCK CLAIMS ABUTTING MP MATERIALS



Targets REE Potential in Mojave North Block Claims

Perth, Aug 13, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Locksley Resources Limited ( ASX:LKY ) ( LKYRF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce that it will commence an expanded geological and structural mapping program in August, within the North Block of the Mojave Project, California. The field program will focus on both expanding knowledge gained from the recent structural mapping program completed at the Desert Antimony Prospect and importantly, undertaking first pass regional mapping across prospective areas within the North Block claims with the potential for REE mineralisation (Figure 1*). The North Block directly abuts MP Materials' Mountain Pass Mine, the only producing rare earths mine in the United States and the focus of recent strategic investment from the Pentagon and Apple.



Key Highlights



- A structural and geological field mapping campaign to commence late August, defining high priority REE and antimony target areas



- 4 priority areas to be mapped, with 2 focusing on REE potential within the North Block of the Mojave Project and two targeting strike extensions from mineralisation identified at the Desert Antimony Prospect



- Planning and contractor engagement underway for focused magnetic, radiometric and gravity surveys to provide additional high-resolution data sets for target refinement and prioritisation



- The North Block offers significant potential for further polymetallic discoveries across its underexplored 20 sq km, expanding the overall critical minerals footprint of the Mojave Project



- Technical team advancing high priority targets to build on established REE potential at El Campo



These additional mapping target areas complement the established prospect at El Campo, which has high grade rock chip results of up to 12.1% TREO and Nd/Pr up to 3.19%. The program is set to expand REE potential into the North Block, which lies immediately adjacent to MP Materials' Mountain Pass Mine. Drilling is set to occur at El Campo later this year, and these additional target areas highlight the broader opportunity across Locksley's 20 sq km landholding within a proven U.S. critical minerals jurisdiction.



Exploration Overview



Following on from the success and increased geological knowledge gained through geological mapping at the Mojave Project in July 2025, a second field mapping campaign is set to commence in August. The field mapping campaign will focus on extending the geological model at the Desert Antimony Prospect to the northeast and southwest as well as conducting initial mapping across other areas within the North Block claims identified as having potential to host REE mineralisation.



These additional target areas were identified through the assessment of available geological and geophysical datasets, highlighting their potential to host REE mineralisation. The additional target areas included in this mapping campaign are identified as the 'Birthday' Prospect (named due to proximity to a historic recorded shaft in the vicinity) located 1.4km North of the Mountain Pass Mine and the North-East Prospect located 4km to the ENE of the Mountain Pass Mine.



In addition to the mapping campaign scheduled for late August, further work is also anticipated to include drone surveys and detailed geophysical analysis (magnetics, radiometrics and gravity). This work will complement ongoing efforts at El Campo and support the potential identification of additional high priority REE prospects across the Mojave Project.



Julian Woodcock, Technical Director of Locksley Resources, commented:



"The commencement of additional field mapping programs at the Mojave Project, adjacent to MP Materials' Mountain Pass Mine will provide additional field data which may provide new REE targets for follow up later in the year. Our technical team is committed to expanding our geological knowledge to complement the existing Desert Antimony and El Campo prospects, enhancing our overall REE opportunity within the Mojave Project and strengthening our position in a proven U.S. jurisdiction."



Next Steps



- BLM approvals for the expanded Plan of Operations expected in September 2025, enabling drilling commencement shortly thereafter



- Complete integration of recent geological modelling and previous surface sampling activities with the objective of determining a JORC Exploration Target ahead of drill testing



- Engagement of metallurgical consultant to develop testwork flowsheets for the Mojave Project targeting recovery and upgrade of Rare Earth Elements (REE) and Antimony



- Launch of the expanded Desert Antimony drill program with first drilling results anticipated in Q4 2025



- Progress on downstream collaboration opportunities centred around the USA government mandate to create a domestic fully integrated critical minerals supply chain. This encompasses potential technology partnerships in processing capabilities, e-waste and other technologies



- Further U.S. investor and government engagement leveraging Tribeca's networks to secure strategic capital and policy aligned funding



- Strengthening U.S. supply chain positioning with additional project level initiatives and strategic partnerships to enhance long term value creation



*To view tables and figures, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/3FF3QYO6





About Locksley Resources Limited





Locksley Resources Limited (ASX:LKY) (OTCMKTS:LKYRF) is an ASX-listed explorer focused on critical minerals in the United States of America. The Company is actively advancing exploration across the Mojave Project in California, targeting rare earth elements (REEs) and antimony. Locksley Resources aims to generate shareholder value through strategic exploration, discovery and development of critical minerals for U.S.

Mojave Project

Located in the Mojave Desert, California, the Mojave Project comprises over 240 claims across two contiguous prospect areas, namely, the North Block-Northeast Block and the El Campo Prospect. The North Block directly abuts claims held by MP Materials, while El Campo lies along strike of the Mountain Pass Mine and is enveloped by MP Materials' claims, highlighting the strong geological continuity and exploration potential of the project area.

In addition to rare earths, the Mojave Project hosts the historic "Desert Antimony Mine", which last operated in 1937. Despite the United States currently having no domestic antimony production, demand for the metal remains high due to its essential role in defense systems, semiconductors, and metal alloys. With surface samples grading up to 46% Sb as well as silver up to 1,022 g/t Ag, the Desert Mine prospect represents one of the highest-grade known antimony occurrences in the U.S.

Locksley's North American position is further strengthened by rising geopolitical urgency to diversify supply chains away from China, the global leader in both REE & antimony production. With its maiden drilling program planned, the Mojave Project is uniquely positioned to align with U.S. strategic objectives around critical mineral independence and economic security.

Related Companies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had scored a "personal victory" by getting invited to talks with Donald Trump on US soil, and that the meeting further delayed sanctions on Moscow.

Zelensky also ruled out withdrawing troops from Ukraine's eastern Donbas region as part of a peace deal, after Trump suggested he and Putin might negotiate a land swap to end the war.

The summit, set to take place in Alaska on Friday, will be the first between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021 and comes as Trump seeks to broker an end to Russia's nearly three-and-a-half year invasion of Ukraine.

Zelensky, who is not scheduled to take part, has expressed concern that Russia will put forward hardline demands and that Trump will hammer out a deal that will see Ukraine cede swathes of territory.

"We will not withdraw from the Donbas... if we withdraw from the Donbas today -- our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control -- we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive," Zelensky told reporters.

The Donbas encompasses the eastern Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, both of which Russia claims as its own and has sought to control since its invasion began in 2022.

Zelensky said Friday's summit would effectively postpone new US sanctions on Russia -- sanctions that Trump had promised to impose if Putin refused to halt his war.

"First, he will meet on US territory, which I consider his personal victory. Second, he is coming out of isolation because he is meeting on US territory. Third, with this meeting, he has somehow postponed sanctions," Zelensky said.

Zelensky also said he had received a "signal" from US envoy Steve Witkoff that Russia might agree to a ceasefire, without elaborating.

"This was the first signal from them," Zelensky said.

On the battlefield, Zelensky warned Russia had made sharp advances near the coal mining town of Dobropillia and was planning new ground assaults on at least three different areas of the front line.

"Russian units have advanced 10 kilometres (six miles) deep in several spots. They all have no equipment, only weapons in their hands. Some have already been found, some destroyed, some taken prisoner. We will find the rest and destroy them in the near future," Zelensky said.

A map published by Ukrainian battlefield monitor DeepState, which has close ties with Ukraine's military, showed Russia had made a double-pronged advance around 10 kilometres (six miles) deep in a narrow section of the front line near Dobropillia.

Dobropillia, home to around 30,000 people before the war, has come under regular Russian drone attacks.

The advance also threatens the largely destroyed town of Kostiantynivka, one of the last large urban areas in the Donetsk region still held by Ukraine.

Russian forces have been accelerating their advances for months, pressing their advantage against overstretched Ukrainian troops.

The Ukrainian army said Tuesday it was engaged in "difficult" battles with Russian forces in the east, but denied Russia had a foothold near Dobropillia.

"The situation is difficult and dynamic," it said in a statement.

The Institute for the Study of War, a US-based think tank, said Russia was sending small sabotage groups forwards.

It said it was "premature" to call the Russian advances around Dobropillia "an operational-level breakthrough".

A Ukrainian military group that oversees parts of the front in the Donetsk region also said Russia was probing Ukrainian lines with small sabotage groups, describing battles as "complex, unpleasant and dynamic".

Trump has described his summit with Putin on Friday as a chance to check the Russian leader's ideas for ending the war.

European leaders have meanwhile sought to ensure respect for Kyiv's interests.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, has made costly but incremental gains across the front in recent months and claims to have annexed four Ukrainian regions while still fighting to control them.

Ukrainian police meanwhile said that Russian attacks in the past hours had killed three people and wounded 12 others, including a child.
GE Appliances' top-freezer refrigerator plant in Decatur will ramp up production by the end of this month. GE

GE Appliances has plans for its Alabama appliance plant as part of a $3 billion national investment strategy over the next five years.

According to the company, GE Appliances will ramp up production immediately at its top-freezer refrigerator plant in Decatur, producing six different 22 cubic feet models.

Production will increase to better support customer demand, the company said.

GE Appliances also announced investments at its appliances plants in Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina.

In all, the company will expand its air conditioning and water heating portfolio, increase production output across all product lines, and begin modernization improvements at its 11 U.S. manufacturing plants, with new automation and capital equipment.

The move is expected to create 1,000 jobs nationwide.

Todays $3 billion announcement is the second-largest in GE Appliances history and in the U.S. appliance industry, according to the company.

We are defining the future of manufacturing at GE Appliances by investing in our plants, people, and communities, CEO Kevin Nolan said. No other appliance company over the last decade has invested more in U.S. manufacturing than we have, and our $3 billion, five-year plan shows that our commitment to U.S. manufacturing will continue into the future.

In addition to Decatur, GE Appliances will double production and employment at Camden, S.C.; add two new air conditioning lines at its Selmer, Tenn. plant; ramp up production of gas ranges in LaFayette, Ga., and produce washer/dryers at its Louisville, Ky. factory.
A former Alabama bank vice president has been sentenced to prison for embezzling more than $2 million over 10 years.

U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced 54-year-old Kellie L. Johnson, of Cullman, to five years in prison followed by five years of supervised release.

Johnson pleaded guilty to embezzlement in May.

According to the plea agreement, Johnson was employed with First Community Bank for about 25 years.

Between July 2013 and June 2023, Johnson embezzled money from First Community Banks Federal Reserve account to pay personal expenses, primarily credit card bills.

To conceal her scheme, authorities said, Johnson falsified transactions to reconcile the balance of the Federal Reserve account in the banks general ledger and deleted her ACH transactions.

Johnson also altered account statements sent by the Federal Reserve that she was required to provide to the bank president, auditors, and others.

The scheme ended when the bank president received a call from the Federal Reserve notifying him that the banks ACH account was overdrawn. When the bank president asked Johnson to provide the latest account statement, she provided a fraudulent statement showing a positive balance in the account.

Over the decade that she stole money from the bank, authorities said, Johnson carried out about 273 fraudulent ACH transactions totaling over $2.3 million.

Additionally, Johnson deprived the bank of $138,185.40 in interest income to the Federal Reserve account.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Hodge.
Missouri police have issued a warrant for a Mobile man in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred earlier this week in North Kansas City.

On Aug. 11, at approximately 2:57 p.m., officers from the North Kansas City Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting that a shooting and vehicle crash had occurred on Highway 210 near I-35, in North Kansas City.

Upon arrival, officers determined that a shooting had taken place, according to a recent release.

The victim, later identified as Deandre Ferguson, 33, was transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries.

The Metro Squad convened to follow up on several leads associated with the investigation and reviewed camera footage from North Kansas City cameras.

Footage showed Mobile native Ray Von McCall Jr. communicating with Ferguson while remaining in their vehicles before pulling in front of Ferguson to block his path, leaning outside his drivers window with a firearm, and shooting at Fergusons vehicle multiple times using his left hand, according to a report from 41 KSHB.

Detectives told the outlet six 9mm shell casings were recovered from the scene.

McCalls license was picked up by a reader at 7 a.m. Tuesday in Tupelo, Miss, KSHB reports.

Authorities said he is believed to be armed and dangerous and a threat to public safety.

McCall has previous arrests and possible convictions in Alabama for felony assault and shooting at a vehicle, as well as an arrest and possible conviction for possession of a stolen firearm in Mississippi, according to court documents.

A warrant has been issued for McCalls arrest.

Once he is in custody, a Clay County judge has requested he be held on a $2 million cash-only bond, according to KSHB.
The new Southern Research biotechnology center in Birmingham. Courtesy of UAB. Courtesy of UAB

Southern Research opened a new biotechnology center in downtown Birmingham on Tuesday, a move officials say could make the city the Silicon Valley of the South for health research.

The $98 million facility is estimated to create 100 direct jobs and $80 million in economic growth in the next 3-5 years, according to Harry Ledebur, chief operating officer of Southern Research.

Biotech is critically important to the city, and with investments like this, we are charting an even brighter future for this industry and more importantly for the people who call Birmingham home, said Mayor Randall Woodfin in a press release.

Southern Research is a nonprofit scientific research organization that has been in Birmingham since 1941 and has helped shape modern cancer treatments like chemotherapies.

The organization, which partners with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, added the 150,000 square foot facility to its existing campus on Richard Arrington Boulevard, expanding its ability to combat chronic illnesses, cancer and infectious diseases.

According to Ledebur, the biotechnology center will be at the heart of either discovering molecules and new medicines or assisting our clients doing that. He added those clients include the United States Department of Defense and pharmaceutical companies, among others.

This building represents the next step forward in achieving our shared mission, it will amplify Southern Researchs critical work in advancing human health, accelerating the development of therapies for high impact diseases, and tackling some of the most pressing biomedical challenges of our time, said Sid Trant, chancellor at the University of Alabama, during the ribbon cutting ceremony.

It will also fuel economic growth and support one of the most important industries in this community and this state, Trant added. Today, this $98 million investment announces that Birmingham has become the biotechnology center of the South.

State Sen. Roger Smithermann echoed that aspiration, saying he believes the facility will usher in an era where we become the biotech valley of this country, just like Silicon Valley in California.

Crews broke ground on the center in 2022 following the demolition of Quinlan castle. The Alabama Legislature provided $45 million for the buildings development in the 2023 state budget. Other funding came from Birmingham, Jefferson County and the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

Though scientific research has been hit with funding cuts under the Trump administration, Ledebur said he doesnt expect any impacts to their program, noting that most of their work comes from commercial clients and funding is largely from private equity firms.

The work done within these walls will touch lives across the globe, said State Sen. Jabo Waggoner.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall made a rare appearance in Huntsville on Tuesday at a Huntsville Rotary Club forum, where he highlighted various threats that he believes the country still faces, nearing 250 years since its founding.

Our nation has clear divisions, many times, torn between competing visions of what America should be, he said.

We see threats to the principles that define us, threats to free speech, to religious liberty, to the right to bear arms, we see efforts to centralize power in ways thats contrary to the concept of federalism that allows Alabama to govern consistent with its values.

Marshall, however, later told AL.com that he supports President Donald Trumps federalization of the Washington, D.C., police department, which District Mayor Muriel Bowser described as unsettling and unprecedented.

The law under which the president derived the authority to take over the police department gives him 30 days, but Congress can approve an extension.

Marshall does not see the move as representing the nationalization of the D.C. police but supplementary, in line with last years creation of the Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Unit in Montgomery.

In Montgomery, for example  significant issue of violent crime  the Attorney Generals office, (Alabama Law Enforcement Agency) ALEA, Sheriffs office in Montgomery County all came together with a task force along with Montgomery (Police Department) to supplement their efforts dealing with violent crime and weve seen significant impact as a result of that, he said. I think the presidents efforts here are very much a similar model and desire to just simply allow people to feel safer in their homes now.

That is not the only issue that Marshall thinks the Trump administration is taking a leaf from Alabama.

We fought for the integrity of girls locker rooms and girls sports, he told AL.com after Tuesdays event. Alabama led the fight against gender affirming care, all of which now as a result of the victories that we had, have been embraced at the federal level through the presidents agenda.

Marshall, who is in his second and final term in office, has joined the race for Alabamas U.S. Senate seat, which Sen. Tommy Tuberville is leaving to run for governor. The economy, farmer advocacy are issues the AG hopes to make his mark as a senator.

 First is the economic issues that affect Alabamians that is the amount of money theyre able to bring home and the cost of living to be able to feed their families, he said. And we need to make sure that were doing everything at a federal level to enhance the opportunities for individual families to be able to thrive.

He said that President Trump has shown remarkable leadership in the first 200 days of his second term.

Theres an urgency in this administration that I think is completely welcomed and I look forward to having two years as a United States senator to be able to help them with that agenda, he said.

The latest candidate to join the race for the Republican ticket is U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, who announced his run on Tuesday. The primary is on May 19, 2026.

At the Rotary forum on Tuesday, the AG praised the clubs advocacy, including supporting schools, those in need, and efforts to foster economic growth.

Youre a living proof that the American experiment thrives - not of government alone - because of citizens who take responsibility for their communities, he told the gathering.
A Mobile mayoral candidate is using a decades-old family tragedy as campaign material, sparking controversy over the accuracy of his claims.

When I was 4, I saw a man try to kill my father, Spiro Cheriogotis says in a dramatic new campaign ad. My dad defended himself and ended up in prison. I remember feeling helpless. Thats why I studied law, became a prosecutor and then a judge.

The ad, released last week, is grabbing attention on social media  as well as plenty of scrutiny -- over its accuracy. While Cheriogotis frames the 1987 shooting as an act of self-defense, court records and the jurys verdict contradict this claim.

Nicholas Cheriogotis, his father, was convicted of manslaughter in 1988 after shooting Allbun Lamar Smith in the back following a confrontation in the small Wiregrass city of Grimes.

At any time, this tragedy could have been avoided had (Nicholas Cheriogotis) decided that the value of human life is more important than frustration, anger and confrontation, Dale County Circuit Judge Charles Woods wrote at the time of his sentencing following a trial at which a jury issued a manslaughter verdict. A civil court later awarded Smiths estate $2 million, though its unclear how much of that was paid. Nicholas Cheriogotis later filed for bankruptcy.

Now, as his son Spiro Cheriogotis mounts a high-profile campaign for mayor of Mobile, political observers say the ad raises serious questions not just about the past, but about how hes choosing to confront it.

Cheriogotis is one of four candidates competing for the open mayoral seat in one of Alabamas largest cities. The municipal election is Aug. 26.

Politically, if you have a negative and want to get out in front of it, then you tell the truth and the whole truth, said longtime Alabama strategist Angi Horn. This doesnt seem to be what it is. There is a cascading waterfall of odd and potentially damaging decisions into this commercial.

Senseless death

Cheriogotis, who stepped down as a Mobile County District judge in January to enter the mayors race, has declined to discuss his fathers case in detail, saying he doesnt want to re-litigate it. He told AL.com, just like other media outlets in recent days, that hes sharing his personal lived experience. He said the incident is one that shaped his views on crime and justice.

Ive had the unfortunate and fortunate opportunities to sit in every seat of a courtroom as the family of a defendant, as a prosecutor with the family of victims and as a judge, Cheriogotis said. There are many young people in our community today with incarcerated family members and others who have lost loved ones to criminal behavior. I know firsthand how tough that can make things for a child, and I want those young people to see that they can overcome adversity through hard work and good character.

Its unclear how much of the incident Cheriogotis witnessed at the time. Cheriogotis also said that he believes his fathers actions saved both their lives.

The fatal encounter occurred in a private driveway on Nov. 17, 1987, following what appeared to be a road rage encounter between Smith and Nicholas Cheriogotis. Smith, according to an appellate court filing in 1989, had been previously employed by Nicholas Cheriogotis.

A witness whose driveway is where the shooting occurred said at the time that Cheriogotis, after shooting Smith, told her that he had to act in self-defense. At the time, Alabama did not have a stand your ground law, which now allows the use of deadly force in self-defense without the duty to retreat.

The mans crazy, Cheriogotis was quoted as saying after the encounter. He tried to cut me with a knife.

Cheriogotis reportedly had a cut on his arm.

The appellate court record suggests that Smith had been following Cheriogotis around town harassing him and shooting him the bird. Cheriogotis said he got tired of it, pulled over and approached Smith, who apparently attempted to cut his throat.

Cheriogotis then returned to his pick-up truck to retrieve his gun. Spiro Cheriogotis was in the truck with his father at the time.

According to Judge Woods sentencing report, Nicholas Cheriogotis had ample time during the chase to decide that their personal differences did not amount to a sufficient cause for him to run the risks of a confrontation in the presence of his 4-year-old son.

A senseless death occurred, and the ultimate punishment has already occurred to the victim, Woods wrote.

The judge also noted that The .22 caliber bullet entered the back of the deceased and not the front.

Odd decision

Spiro Cheriogotis, in his statement to AL.com, said he felt remorse to the pain felt of the Smith family. The campaign ad does not mention the Smith family nor his family.

Two families were forever changed that day, he said. I am sorry for the Smith familys loss and I pray for Gods peace beyond all knowing for everyone who felt the impact of that event.

Nicholas Cheriogotis was sentenced to 15 years in prison. His sentencing was later amended to 3 years in prison, and 12 years probation. Cheriogotis was also ordered to pay $22,000 in restitution, including $7,000 for Smiths funeral expenses.

Even though the outcome wasnt what we wanted, I remember my family talking about how professional and respectful the judge was throughout the case, Spiro Cheriogotis said.

He said his life experiences have given him a strong sense of duty and fairness that includes listening to all facts of each case presented to him. He also said the experiences made him a more empathetic leader.

That obviously shaped my view of judges at a young age, Cheriogotis said. It gave me an appreciation for how each and every decision, no matter how large or small, can have a lasting impact on the people involved.

The 2025 candidates for Mobile mayor gather for a candidates meet and greet forum on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at B.C. Rain High School in Mobile, Ala. Pictured from left to right: Spiro Cheriogotis, Connie Hudson, Barbara Drummond and Paul Prine. John Sharp

Spiro Cheriogotis is currently in a four-person race to replace Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson as mayor of Mobile. Stimpson endorsed Cheriogotis in early May, and the former judge has led the field in fundraising since his entry into the race. Hes raised over $1 million since his official entry into the race.

Former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine offered condolences to those involved in the fatal encounter and called the campaign ad perplexing.

While I am perplexed about the political ad, I offer my deepest sympathy to both the victims family and the Cheriogotis family, he said in a comment to AL.com. Having personally endured the lifelong impact of violent crime, my family and I know this pain all too well. While words and prayers can never be enough, they are all we can humbly give.

State Rep. Barbara Drummond, in a statement, said it will be up to others to debate the details of the Cheriogotis ad.

Mobiles voters are concerned about public safety, infrastructure, and the direction of our city, she said. Well leave it to others to debate the details of Mr. Cheriogotis ad and the history it references. My campaign is focused on the future  reducing crime, improving city services, and making sure progress reaches every neighborhood. Thats what matters in this election.

Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson declined to comment about the ad.

My only guess is perhaps (the Cheriogotis campaign) thought they would get hit with the situation (involving his father) and wanted to get out in front of it, Horn said. I think the flaw is he didnt tell the truth. The truth is there was no self-defense verdict. Its a very odd decision. But whether it makes any difference (in the mayoral race), I dont know.

Cheriogotis said he felt it was necessary to tell his fathers story and defend his father.

I cant tell citizens about who I am without talking about this, he said. In the end, I truly believe my fathers actions that day saved my life and his. The event certainly helped shape me into the person I am, and I will never be ashamed of that.
On April 18, 2025, Robert Sullivan led prayers at the Good Friday procession for the Homewood community starting at Homewood Park. (Photo by Greg Garrison/AL.com) ggarrison@al.com

Bishop Steven Raica, head of the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham, today released a letter to the diocese revealing that a priest is being investigated for a relationship with a woman alleged to have begun when she was 17.

Robert Sullivan, 61, announced Aug. 2 that he was taking personal leave from his duties as pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood beginning Aug. 4, Raica said. Sullivan also served as vicar general of the diocese, Raica said.

Raica said the victim assistance coordinator for the diocese received the allegation in July and the case is being referred to the Vatican for investigation and to the Alabama Department of Human Resources, since the woman reporting the allegation said she was a minor when the relationship began.

While the Alabama Department of Human Resources determined that the allegations did not match the requirements for opening an investigation, a diocese investigation was initiated, again, according to Church law and our diocesan policies and guidelines, Raica wrote. Our diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator has continued to be in contact with the woman who brought forth the allegations and has provided appropriate support.

The allegations are also being reported to the Vatican. Church law states that any allegation that may have involved a relationship between a person under the age of 18 and a member of the clergy must be reported to the Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican, Raica wrote. That report is being developed now for submission to the Dicastery for its review and consideration.

The woman making the allegations also shared them with The Guardian, a British newspaper, which has published a story on the allegations.

The Guardian said Heather Jones, 33, says she met Sullivan in 2009 when she was 17, dancing at a strip club where Sullivan was a patron. He offered her money to begin a sexual relationship and offered to pay her $273,000 to sign a legal non-disclosure document.

Jones, who agreed to let the Guardian go public with her identity, shared an unsigned copy of the non-disclosure agreement with the Guardian. She also provided a copy of a March 27 message from Sullivans Our Lady of Sorrows email address, which had the sentence: Someone will be calling you to sign the NDA.

The Guardian said she shared bank records that show four days after that email, Jones received a wire transfer of $136,500 from an account under the name of the attorneys law office. She received another $136,500 wire transfer from the same law office account a day later, the bank records indicated.

The Guardian also reported that she shared records of more than 125 different transactions from July 18, 2024 to March 26 this year, showing a Venmo account under Sullivans name paid nearly $120,000 to Jones.

Jones told the Guardian she went public with allegations because Sullivan had continued working closely with families and their children as the pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows church in Homewood. Others may be vulnerable to the same type of manipulation and exploitation, she told the Guardian.

The Guardian said Jones gave permission to be publicly identified by name because she hoped it would boost the credibility of her account.

Donald Carson, spokesman for the Diocese of Birmingham, said Sullivan would be prohibited from public ministry during the investigation.

Jones, in her statement to the diocese and to the Guardian, said she grew up in foster care after being removed from her mothers custody due to severe neglect.

She wrote that she lacked consistent adult support during her upbringing, leaving her ill-equipped to maintain employment or pursue a formal education  so she tried to make ends meet by working as a dancer at an adult establishment in the Birmingham area.

Jones wrote that Sullivan was a regular patron, tipped her during her shifts and offered to help change her life if she called him on a phone number he gave her.

Sullivan proposed to form an ongoing relationship that would include financial support in exchange for private companionship, Jones wrote, telling the Guardian that included sex.

She said Sullivan took her shopping, dining, drinking and to hotel rooms in at least six different Alabama cities in part to engage in sex, beginning when she was 17 and over the course of several years.

Jones wrote that she was a minor with no experience navigating adult relationships when she met Sullivan. I was hesitant but ultimately agreed due to his persistence and the state [of mind] I was in, she wrote.

Jones said Sullivan bought her a phone that he used to contact her.

He at first told her he was a doctor, but she later learned he was a priest and had a brother who was a doctor.

She wrote that she had attended church services throughout her youth and had difficulty reconciling his public role and private behavior.

She wrote that Sullivan paid for her to attend a rehabilitation program after she experienced depression, emotional instability and addiction during their arrangement.

Jones said she did not know whether the payments to her came out of his personal finances or not. She accepted the Venmo payments to cover her living expenses. She said Sullivan said he was happy to give her money because he loved her and so did Jesus Christ.

Jones wrote that she suggested revising the non-disclosure agreement and asked for $100,000 more because the agreement heavily favored his interests and offered no meaningful protection, healing or justice, and she began to see the relationship as exploitative and predatory.

She said she did not hear back from Sullivan and his attorney on that suggestion.

She said she gave her statement to the diocese shortly after writing it on July 23. Jones said she could provide phone records, pictures and other corroborating evidence to church investigators.

Please continue to remember me in your prayers  as I will do the same for you, Sullivan told the church after announcing his personal leave. On Aug. 10, Vicar General Kevin Bazzel told the church he had been appointed temporary administrator of Our Lady of Sorrows Church.

Sullivan has been a priest for more than 32 years and was formerly president of John Carroll High School for six years.

On April 18, Sullivan helped lead a Good Friday procession for the Homewood community starting at Homewood Park.

The Guardian noted that in 2020, Sullivan appeared on ABCs Good Morning America show, discussing his recovery from COVID-19 with help from his brother, an infectious diseases doctor.

Jones told the Guardian she recently began law school and did not abide by the terms of the non-disclosure statement with Sullivan because she believed it would not hold up in court.

Behind closed doors, his behavior toward me was not in alignment with the values he teaches, Jones wrote.

Father Sullivan was granted a leave of absence and is currently removed from all priestly service pending the outcome of the investigation, Raica wrote to the diocese. We do not know the timeframe for completion of the work of the Dicastery in Rome nor of that which will be further required within our diocese.

Raica noted that anyone accused in the Church possesses a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, equivalent to the right granted in civil law. In sharing this with you now, I ask your continued prayers for all involved, for each other, and all people of our diocese. I also stress the need for absolute adherence to our policies and guidelines for Youth Protection and the reporting of allegations to our Victims Assistance Coordinator.
Birmingham has agreed to extend its lease to the Birmingham Airport Authority by 25 years, from 2045 to 2070. (Photo by Greg Garrison/AL.com) ggarrison@al.com

Birmingham has agreed to extend its lease to the Birmingham Airport Authority by 25 years, from 2045 to 2070, to unlock new investments by aviation companies.

The extended lease will allow the airport authority to sign new contracts worth $72 million in investments by airline companies, Birmingham Airport Authority CEO Ron Mathieu said.

Atlantic Aviation is investing $40 million; Million Air is investing $32 million, Mathieu said in an interview after the council meeting.

He said their investments include building new hangars and tearing down some of the older existing facilities. The extension allows the companies to contractually work on 30-year term loans to finance construction.

Birminghams been on the rise as far as the airports concerned, Mathieu said.

You have definitely cast a vision for our airport and enhanced the vitality of our community, said council member J.T. Moore.

Birmingham owns the 400 acres the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport sits on and leases it to the Birmingham Airport Authority for $10 a year.

The airport is a big component of the economic development of our region, Council President Darrell OQuinn said.

The airport makes a strong impression on visitors to Birmingham, Moore said.

Its a big deal, Moore said. Thats the first welcome that they receive.

Atlantic Aviation has begun work on a redevelopment and expansion of its facility, hangars, and ramp at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.

The redevelopment is scheduled for completion in early 2027, according to the company.

Plans include a new executive fixed base operator (FBO) terminal, fuel farm with increased capacity, and two hangars  each roughly 30,000 square feet.

There will be office and shop spaces and 28-foot main doors for handling globally capable aircraft.

About seven acres of additional ramp area with concrete hardstands for large group charter aircraft will also be added.

The 7,500-square-foot new executive FBO terminal building will feature a design that infuses luxury with functionality and a significant dash of legendary southern charm, according to the company.

There will be an open concept lobby and reception area, a cafe, multiple conference rooms, and a large crew lounge and flight planning area. A new training area is included, along with expanded offices and locker rooms for Atlantic team members.

Texas-based Million Air will invest a minimum of $32 million in Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Signing a lease as a fixed base operator, Million Air will add a total of 94,000-square-feet in new development at the airport.

According to the airport authority, Million Air plans to build a new 10,000-square-foot terminal for pilots, aircraft owners and guests, military, and corporate business travelers.

It will also erect a new 24,000-square-foot Community Lite Aviation Hangar for smaller, privately owned aircraft.

And it will build two new 30,000-square-foot Community Corporate Hangars.

The new terminal and hangars will replace old ones at the current east side location, some dating back more than 50 years. The new facilities will make room for servicing and storing General Aviation aircraft of all sizes.

FBOs are similar to full-service fuel and convenience stations that specifically cater to general aviation, commercial and military aircraft, offering several services. Million Air currently operates similar aviation businesses in 38 airport locations across the nation.
Authorities are looking for family members of five people who died in Jefferson County in recent weeks.

Their bodies are ready to be released for burial and the Jefferson County Coroners Office has not been able to locate and notify their relatives.

Mae Brooks Sizemore (Contributed)

Mae Brooks Sizemore, 95, died July 31 at Arlington Rehabilitation & Health Care Center in Birmingham. She was in hospice care at the facility.

Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates said Sizemore previously listed addresses in Birmingham and Forestdale. The only known next of kin died in 2007.

Fred Williams Jr., 77, died Aug. 1 at South Health and Rehabilitation Center in Birmingham while he, too, was under hospice care.

Williams possibly previously lived in Chicago. No photo was available for Williams.

Sheral Dean Henderson (Contributed)

Sheral Dean Henderson, 65, died Aug. 4 while in hospice care at Legacy Health and Rehabilitation of Pleasant on Aug. 4.

No information next of kin or family information has been found. Henderson had a past address in Oneonta.

Jimmy Ray Yates (Contributed)

Jimmy Ray Yates, 83, died Aug. 11 at UAB Hospital. He lived in the 100 block of Valley Cove in Birmingham.

Yates cause of death has not yet been determined.

Yates was a former hospice patient with a local hospice service and was discharged from their care in 2023. He possibly has a brother by the name of Joe Wiggins, but the contact information associated with him is no longer current.

Paul Merrick, 71, died July 23 at Grandview Medical Center.

The coroners office did not find any information on Merricks family, but he is possibly from Houston.

No photo was available for Merrick.
Russia's offensive in eastern Ukraine was gaining speed and seizing more ground Wednesday ahead of a summit in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin.

According to an AFP analysis of battlefield data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War, Russian forces have made their biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in more than a year.

And, as battle raged, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders met to hold urgent online talks with Trump, hoping to convince him to respect Kyiv's interests during Friday's looming summit with Putin.

Zelensky flew to Berlin and met Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday before both were to be joined online by French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders as well as the heads of the EU and NATO.

They were then all set to hold a second call with Trump and Vice President JD Vance -- an effort Russia's foreign ministry branded "politically and practically insignificant" and an attempt at "sabotaging" US and Russian efforts to end the conflict.

Zelensky has not been invited to the Alaska meeting, fuelling fears Kyiv could be forced into painful concessions.

The Ukrainian president said on social media Tuesday that "we see that the Russian army is not preparing to end the war. On the contrary, they are making movements that indicate preparations for new offensive operations."

With the world's eyes on the Alaska summit, Russia has made rapid advances this week in a narrow but important section of the front line in Ukraine's east.

An AFP analysis of data from Institute for the Study of War showed that the Russian army took or claimed 110 square kilometres (42.5 square miles) on August 12 compared to the previous day. It was the most since late May 2024.

In recent months, Moscow has typically taken five or six days to progress at such a pace, although Russian advances have accelerated in recent weeks.

Zelensky acknowledged Tuesday that Russian troops had advanced by up to 10 kilometres (six miles) near the eastern coal mining town of Dobropillia, but said that Kyiv would soon "destroy them."

Russia -- which currently has full or partial control over 19 percent of Ukrainian territory -- said Wednesday that it had taken two villages close to Dobropillia.

The Russian military fired at least 49 drones and two ballistic missiles at Ukraine during the night, the Ukrainian air force said Wednesday.

At least three people were killed in Russian artillery and drone attacks on the southern Kherson region, regional officials said.

In the Donetsk region, authorities announced they had evacuated 1,200 people including 42 children from front line areas since Tuesday.

Ahead of his arrival in Berlin, Zelensky, whose team has spoken with more than 30 international allies in a few days, said "pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a fair peace".

"We must learn from the experience of Ukraine and our partners to prevent deception on the part of Russia. There are currently no signs that the Russians are preparing to end the war," he said in a social media statement.

German government spokesman Steffen Meyer said the main aim of Wednesday's talks was to ensure that "Ukraine must be able to determine its own destiny and take control of its own future".

"No decisions should be made over the heads of the Ukrainian people," he said.

The fact that Zelensky had travelled to Berlin also showed that "Putin's attempts to drive a wedge between Europe and Ukraine, which we have seen time and again, have not been successful", he said.

Trump on Monday played down the possibility of a breakthrough in Alaska but said he expected "constructive conversations" with Putin.

"This is really a feel-out meeting a little bit," Trump said. But he added that eventually "there'll be some swapping, there'll be some changes in land".

Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that the aim was "for the president to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war".

"I think this is a listening exercise for the president."

Zelensky meanwhile has called the Alaska encounter a "personal victory" for Putin.
Six individuals were detained in south Alabama Tuesday morning for allegedly being in the country illegally.

According to the FBI in Mobile, the individuals were arrested in Atmore in a joint operation between the Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force and Atmore police.

Peter Still, FBI Mobiles Supervisory Special Agent, told AL.com the agency often receives information from a variety of sources that allow them to be at a certain place at a certain time to conduct arrests.

A lot of times we get tips from the public, other law enforcement and just general surveillance and other investigative techniques, so theyre always using a combination of those, Still said.

Still said at least one of those individuals detained allegedly had a violent criminal history that included kidnapping and homicide.

Another person, according to Still, had previously attempted to re-enter the country unlawfully 11 times.

Still also was not aware of whether the individuals arrested had jobs or were employed.

FBI Mobile, the HSTF Task Force and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have conducted numerous raids at construction sites primarily in Baldwin County during President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown.

The agencies have also arrested many undocumented immigrants during traffic stops, which the FBI Mobile has said is initiated because of probable cause.

But immigration advocates in the state and nationwide contend ICE and other agencies are racially profiling specifically Latino people to meet the demands of the Trump administrations push to arrest as many undocumented people as possible.
FILE - A supporter holds up a sign as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at Trump National Doral Miami, July 9, 2024, in Doral, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) AP

This is an opinion column. Get my weekly newsletter, The Barbershop. Sign up here for free!

Theres a part of me that whispers: Just leave em alone. Forget about em. Dont ask.

No need to reach out. No sound reason for seeking to understand the thinking of Black people who voted for Donald Trump. For whatever reason. Maybe because they felt he offered a bigger bag. Maybe because they were over Democrats.

Maybe because they just couldnt see her as president  as some shamefully whispered to themselves or among their own.

Dont ask. Not even now, as Trump - after a white DOGE worker who writes under the pseudonym Big Balls was assaulted in Washington, D.C. last month - continues his brazen and unapologetic attack on Blackness with the based-on-lies military takeover (invasion) of the nations capital. And other Black-run cities. Maybe even some right here. In Alabama.

READ: Donald Trump wants to make American (Jim) Crow Again

Using soldiers trained right here. In Alabama.

Turning us against us. Our own against our own.

As he feverishly scrubs Blackness from curricula, corporations and national parks, museums and libraries. As he diminishes and demeans it.

As he demonizes it, equating Blackness, as he did Monday, with bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people. (Remember, he called the Jan. 6 insurrectionists very special as they attacked the U.S. Capitol.)

As he portrays Black duly elected officials as inept, incapable of governing or protecting the residents who elected them without massa, er, the president planting the National Guard on their streets.

Were going to take our capital back, Trump blared.

Our?

Whose?

He threatened to do the same in New York, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago, all cities he named. All cities with Black mayors  not even remotely coincidentally.

This will go further, Trump said. If they dont learn their lesson.

They  learn their lesson.

Dont ask.

Black people are not a monolith, despite what so many believe. We are diverse in myriad ways  socio-economically, culturally and, yes, politically. We possess differing tastes in style, food, music (Exhibit A: Me and wife) and beyond. Weve traversed varied paths, birthing a mosh of perspectives and opinions (Exhibit B: Any noir family reunion, church trustee meeting or bid whist battle).

Just as it should be.

Blackness is the long and twisted thread that connects us, yet it does not bind us. Not to one thought. Not to one idea. And certainly not to one political party. Rightly so.

So  just leave them alone. Forget about those Blacks who waved Trump signs, donned buttons and genuflected in his presence. Who believed he was for them.

Let them be.

Thats just not my nature. I am genuinely curious, have been longer than I can remember. So, I must ask Trump-loving Black folk: Are yall still good with him? Still great with him?

Even as he invades one Black city and threatens to similarly throttle others led by Black public officials if they dont learn their lesson.

Even as he diminishes, demeans and demonizes us. As he spews spittle on what weve built and sacrificed? Are yall good?

Lord knows many cities are not perfect and have struggled with violent crime, including many right here in Alabama. Too many in our communities still struggle daily through circumstances and conditions they did not create. Too many dont survive. Public officials in Washington, D.C. and other cities  not all led by Black mayors  have been and must continue to address crime and prioritize public safety with diligence and intentionality.

By investing in programs that empower people to make different choices, and in crime-solving technology and the recruitment of more officers.

Not by oppression.

Trumps claiming of D.C. like that erstwhile Italian explorer Christopher Columbus discovering a land already peacefully inhabited  should be a call to us all. A clarion call. Even those with whom we disagree.

Because that swatch of Black voters who helped Trump return to the now-gilded Oval Office is in the crosshairs, too.

Were all potential takeover targets as Trump and roll-over-and-rub-my-belly Republicans in Congress continue to bring Project 2025 to life  page by page. Pages that drain lifeblood from our communities. Theyve defunded workforce programs that empower our youth, all-but-pulled the plug on Medicaid that helps keep rural hospitals breathing and clipped SNAP benefits that feed working families.

They pulled life from Africa, tragically ending USAID efforts that were successfully all but ending the scourge of AIDS and other diseases in the nation. And feeding children and families who might (now, will) otherwise starve to death.

Are yall cool with that?

D.C. wasnt even the beginning. Trumps plan to deflate and disempower Black leaders began with the deployment of troops to Los Angeles in June because Los Angeleans were protesting him. His policies. His foolishness.

That was the first time in 60 years that a U.S. president had sent our own against our own.

Just two months later, a president has done it for the second time in 60 years.

After troops began roaming the nations capital, we learned from the Washington Post that the Pentagon is drafting plans for a Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force, comprising National Guard soldiers who could respond to so-called and henceforth not yet defined as unrest in American cities. They would be deployed, the Post reported, from groups of 300 troops training at two bases  one in Arizona, the other right here. In Alabama.

Our own against our own.

Yall good with that?

Prior to Los Angeles, only a few times in our nations history had presidents sent federal troops to U.S. cities. Some were to support local law enforcement in squashing uprisings sparked by protests against racism (Detroits summer of 67), police brutality (Los Angeles in 1992) or national grief (the 1964 assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King). Some troops were utilized to protect young Blacks seeking education (the 1957 desegregation of Little Rocks Central High School following the historic Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision) or protect those walking from Selma to Montgomery for voting rights in 1965 after Bloody Sunday.

In 1962, the Mississippi National Guard was activated to enforce the integration of the University of Mississippi. A year later, the Alabama National Guard was sent to defy Governor George Wallaces infamous Stand at the Schoolhouse Door to prevent the integration of the University of Alabama.

Now, the deployment of our own against us is a very real threat to all of us, including those who supported him.

So Black Trump voters: Do you still support him when it is clear that he does not support you, does not value you, does not see you  except in the crosshairs of his hate for Blackness?

Are yall good with that? I had to ask.

My email is below. Cant wait to hear from you.

Lets be better tomorrow than we are today. Way better, I pray. My column appears on AL.com, and digital editions of The Birmingham News, Huntsville Times, and Mobile Press-Register. Tell me what you think at rjohnson@al.com, and follow me at twitter.com/roysj, Instagram @roysj and BlueSky.
[Cant see the map? Click here.]

In early July, the Huntsville City Council voted to add more than 1,000 acres in the Rocket Citys latest annexation bid. The move pushed the city into Marshall County, the fourth county in its ever sprawling footprint.

2025 has been a big year for Alabamas biggest city, both in terms of land area and population. Huntsville annexed nearly 1,700 acres of land through the first seven months of the year.

The city isnt done.

RELATED: North, south, east and west: Huntsville growing in every direction

The City Council will vote on another nearly 600 acre annexation on Thursday. That would push the years total to more than 2,250 acres  more than any year since 2008, when the city saw a huge growth spurt of nearly 10,000 acres.

[Cant see the chart? Click here.]

Huntsville is a very different place now than it was back in the mid 2000s. The citys population boomed during that time as it became the most populous city in Alabama.

Annexations didnt drive that growth. But they didnt hurt.

Huntsville grew from fewer than 160,000 people in 2005 to nearly 230,000 in 2023, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

A significant number of those new people now live in land annexed by the city in that time.

According to an analysis of 2020 Census data and the boundary files of annexed land provided by the City of Huntsville, about 11,000 people lived on land that was added to the city since 2005. Thats roughly 16% of the citys new population in that time.

2025 has been an exceptional year for large annexations in Huntsville, according to Jennie Robinson, the councilwoman for south Huntsville.

While we have annexed some large pieces of land recently, those are the exception, Robinson told AL.com. Thats why they have captured so much attention. Normally, annexations occur every month an acre or two at a time as individuals request annexation so they can access city services.

The proposed annexation planned for Thursday would be the citys 13th so far this year. Thats more than twice the 2024 number, but fewer than many other recent years. In 2021, the city approved 38 new annexations, but those accounted for fewer than 1,000 acres.

[Cant see the chart? Click here.]

Most of these annexations arent just Huntsville deciding to add land, according to City Councilman Bill Kling.

Property owners petition the city to annex into the city, he said. They like city services, we have a very good school system, and we have very good job growth.

But even if Huntsville isnt aggressively gobbling up land, its approach to annexation is different than almost any other city in Alabama.

Comparing annexation data across different cities can be tricky, but according to one federal source, Huntsville has made north of 500 annexations since 2000. Only Semmes (823) in south Alabama and Chelsea (597), a fast-growing suburb south of Birmingham, have made more. Thats according to data from the U.S. Census Bureaus Boundary and Annexation Survey  a voluntary and imperfect collection of data on annexations.

But, per that data, no city comes close to the amount of land Huntsville has picked up. The Rockey City added more than 30,000 acres in that time. The next closest city is Mobile, which added about 25,000 acres, though that city only approved 16 annexations, according to the census data.

[Cant see the table? Click here.]

Annexation has certainly played a unique role in Huntsvilles growth plan. And while city officials say they take each annexation on a case-by-case basis, coucilman Kling says there hasnt been an annexation taken to the council that was voted down.

But Mayor Tommy Battle says the citys goal has never been to grow for growths sake.

Rather, our approach has been to guide growth in a way that is fiscally responsible, functionally sustainable and beneficial to all our residents, the mayor told AL.com in August. We evaluate each opportunity carefully to ensure the acquisition strengthens Huntsvilles infrastructure, broadens our tax base and positively aligns with Huntsvilles vision.

Kling said the citys services are ready to take on more land and more people. And he said the city works with its closest neighbors, including the city of Madison, which Huntsville now surrounds on all sides, when making these decisions.

Were not trying to be the big monolith, Kling said. The cooperation that we have with the city of Madison, the Madison County government and all of the smaller north Alabama communities really helps.

AL.com reporter Scott Turner contributed to this story.

Ramsey Archibald is an award winning data reporter and editor at al.com. To read more Alabama data stories, click here. Have an idea for an Alabama data story? Email rarchibald@al.com.
A massive recall of toy kitchen sets is issued after a toddler died from strangulation.

Backyard Kids, LLC has recalled 192,000 KidKraft Farm to Table Model Play Kitchens due to a strangulation hazard, as announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 30th.

Of the recalled products, about 400 units were sold to consumers, including 12 in Canada. Backyard Kids has voluntarily agreed to recall and provide free replacement hooks for all units per the statement.

Childrens clothing can get caught on the hooks used to hold toy kitchen accessories, such as play pots and pans, CPSC said.

The Texas-based company said the products pose a risk of serious injury or death to young children who are climbing on the counter or crawling through the opening at the back of the play kitchens.

The recall follows the February 2023 asphyxiation death of a 23-month-old boy in Oregon.

The recalled toy kitchens, which measure about 44 inches in length and 43 inches in height, were originally manufactured by KidKraft, Inc., which filed for bankruptcy in 2024. According to PEOPLE, they were sold online through KidKraft, Amazon and Walmart between 2018 through July 2025.

To identify the specific product, consumers can look for the model number 53411, which can be found on a sticker on the back of the toy kitchen.

In a statement on Facebook, KidKraft emphasized, Your safety is our first priority. They added, Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled play kitchens and contact Backyard Kids to receive replacement hooks.
With daggers sharpened and aimed at Mayor Randall Woodfin, a new phrase was coined as challengers made their case to unseat the incumbent Birmingham mayor and end the Randemic.

Five of the nine contestants for Birmingham mayor, including Woodfin himself, squared off Tuesday evening for a debate at the Carver Theatre downtown presented by WJLD 104.1 FM.

Woodfin began his presentation by telling the audience that they were going to hear falsehoods about his record.

State Rep. Juandalynn Givan, early on, attacked Woodfins leadership and blamed him for several issues in the city, including Birminghams shrunken influence on the water works board.

Im going to talk about a Randemic - not a pandemic, but a Randemic - that has run rapidly through the city, she said.

Woodfin rejected the blame and pointed back at Givan, a longtime state legislator.

Theres only one person on this stage who had a vote when the water works board was taken over, Woodfin said. I told you tonight would be lies. You just heard one.

WJLD host James Williams asked nuanced questions involving crime, state intervention over Birmingham assets, the citys shrinking status and housing affordability.

Woodfin, under attack by opponents Givan, Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales, Brian K. Rice and pastor Frank Woodson, repeatedly characterized criticism of his leadership as lies.

Rice said theres enough blame to go around among current leaders, including over the citys loss of control at the former Birmingham Water Works, which was recently rebranded as Central Alabama Water.

A lot of people have been sleeping for 10 years, a lot of people sleeping at the wheel, he said. The legislation has been taking place and someone has been looking the other way.

The event had Woodfin on his toes during the sparring as every other candidate focused on the citys crime rate, unmet neighborhood needs and what they called the lack of accountability at city hall.

While Woodfin called the attacks all lies, some statements were factual, including the citys population loss and its reduced status to Huntsville, which now leads the state in population.

Im a business leader. I dont understand the buck not stopping someplace, Woodson said. We had a colossal failure of leadership which is the reason why we lost the water works, Woodson said. There was nobody who brought everyone together, he said. Weve got to be able to perform an autopsy of whats wrong without assigning the blame.

Scales defended her record of working for Birmingham.

I remember sitting in a meeting wanting to support the city when I first became a commissioner and I was asked out of a room, Scales said. Lets not misstate the facts. I understand your power plan and you want to punch tonight and thats ok. But I want to be very clear - facts go both ways.

Tension between Scales and Woodfin was on full display. Scales, a former Birmingham council member, once supported Woodfins first run for mayor. The relationship soon soured and Scales ran for and was elected to the county commission. She challenged Woodfin for mayor in 2021.

Now in 21 I ran because, you, sir, have not made good on one promise that you made to the city, Scales said, turning toward Woodfin. And in 25 youre still lying. This city and the people of Birmingham know about it.

Regarding quality of life, Woodson said residents are traumatized by violence and a lack of access to basic resources based on their zip code.

Were going to take care of the people, make sure everybody sleeps well and that they dont have to move out of one part of town to another part of town because its not safe for their family, Woodson. All of these attacks takes us away from the part of realizing that our communities, or the people living in our communities are hurting.

Woodson said the city needs a leader who will take responsibility.

The homicides in Birmingham are not the mayors fault. But we need a leader who says, I will be responsible for the solution. I will step forward. I will lead the fight, Woodson said.

Rice noted that he moved back to Birmingham after living out of state. He said he remains committed to the city and living in downtown Ensley, even though he has placed cinder blocks at his wall just to make sure stray bullets dont strike him.

I will focus on safety for our cities. I will remove any plans that add to concentration of poverty, Rice said. I am committed to making sure we bring jobs into Birmingham, restore buildings in Birmingham, restore communities in Birmingham and making sure people in these communities have opportunities.

Givan in her final comments, took another punch at Woodfin and even decried his behavior on stage.

Running for mayor is not a rite of passage. Operating city hall like its the Morehouse College SGA student government. Make it make sense, Birmingham, she said. This is a big mans job.

Woodfin took to social media shortly after the debate to address his supporters.

What you witnessed tonight was two different versions of Birmingham and we made that very clear, he said in the video message.

Woodfin called the debate tacky and a clown show.

Like you, Ive been really embarrassed by the state of this race, he said. Ive held my tongue for so long and I will continue to be above it.

Woodfin said the other candidates themselves were the source of the spectacle and demeaning behavior. Some of Woodfins vocal supporters have turned to social media as surrogates to personally attack his challengers.

The downtown theater was filled with observers and thousands more watched online.

Steven Hoyt, a former longtime Birmingham city council member who watched the debate online, called the gathering a rare opportunity to see the candidates in a formal setting to hear their vision.

However, he called the discussion too superficial with missed opportunities.

They got way too personal from the standpoint and I thought they should have concentrated on what they had to offer as opposed to directing their attacks at the mayor, said Hoyt, who served on the city council for 16 years.

The attacks flew both ways, he said.

Even the mayor got into character issues with the other candidates, Hoyt said. As a mayor you dont have to resort to that because you have a record.

Hoyt also said Woodfin exaggerated his claims of economic development, particularly in the western area.

When youre saying theres a transformation thats taking place, that transformation is not comparable, and we have not invested enough dollars in that area, Hoyt said.

Other mayoral candidates, Kamau Afrika, Marilyn James-Johnson, Jerimy Littlepage and David Russell were not invited to participate but will be asked to attend another forum, said WJLD station president and CEO Gary Richardson.

Each candidate performed well - some made better points than others - but the professionalism of the event was on par, said Richardson, who is also mayor of Midfield. You know you had a good debate when everyone participating felt good about their performance and the outcome. That means everybody was treated fairly.

Birmingham city elections are Aug. 26.
This is an opinion cartoon with words and stuff. Sign up for my Crowe Jam newsletter here.

Uh-oh. I struck a nerve with a local extremist group. I am terribly sorry, dear Moms for Liberty.

Or whatever youre calling yourselves these days. It seems you have slithered out of your M4L skin into something called Fairhope Faith Collective.

To me, you will always be Klanned Karenhood. Or maybe the Minivan Taliban. Thanks, Black Twitter.

The communitys defense of our fabulous Fairhope Public Library against censorship has apparently caused yall some grief. And it seems my cartoon depicting your Christian Nationalist political group as vultures attacking our library ruffled some feathers.

It came to my attention a few days ago that my AL.com copyright image of the Spirit of Fairhope cartoon was turned into a weird message of support for the Moms for anything but Liberty.

Related: Youre messing with the wrong library

On a cheesy Facebook page called Harper Valley PTA, Productions, a Moms operative took my cartoon and turned the M4L vultures atop the library into cartoony angels. And they added a devils tail to the defiant lady Spirit of Fairhope figure. Apparently, their message is the Fairhope community is evil for supporting the public library.

Blasphemy!

Fairhope city elections are supposed to be nonpartisan.

The ultra-right wing Moms for Liberty, a.k.a. Fairhope Faith Collective, a.k.a. Klanned Karenhood are openly supporting a slate of five candidates running for Fairhope City Council:

Place 1: Troy Vickers. Place 2: Joshua Gammon. Place 3: Tracy Gatewood. Place 4: David Luc. Place 5: George Ferniany.

To be fair, a Moms for Liberty endorsement may not be equal to a candidate agreeing with the M4L agenda. So please, ask each candidate where they stand on this issue. Do they support our library or Moms for Liberty? Pretty simple question.

Moms for Liberty say their attack on libraries is about protecting kids from porn. Its really about protecting their kids from diversity.

Its really about control, and causing chaos and confusion in our schools and libraries. They want to censor and marginalize people they dont understand. People who dont think and act like they do. If given their way, they would erase Black and LGBTQ culture from our communities. Its already happening, of course. They tried to ban at least one book because the authors last name was Gay.

Moms for Liberty is just another tool of Project 2025.

For me, right now, a vote for any of these 5 slate candidates has to be considered a vote against our library. A vote for this slate is a vote for censorship. A vote for this slate is a vote against our community - and the foundation of freedom and personal liberties on which our overgrown little artists colony was built.

You will have a couple of chances to visit with all city council candidates in a public event. Show up and ask questions.

A Fairhope City Council candidate forum will be held Monday, Aug. 18, 6-8:30 p.m., at First Fairhope Baptist Church, 300 S. Section St. The event is hosted by Fairhope Faith Collective.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, The League of Women Voters of Baldwin County is cosponsoring a nonpartisan Candi-Dating event where you can meet the candidates in a relaxed setting at the Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Avenue. Doors open at 7 p.m. The event starts at 7:30. Come curious, leave informed, vote with confidence.

Both candidate forums are free and open to the public, but you can order EVENTBRITE tickets to hold a spot.

The Fairhope city election is Tuesday, Aug. 26.

As for you Klanned Karenhood operatives who used and abused my Spirit of Fairhope cartoon: My cartoony lawyers and sketchy henchmen are huddling, pondering and plotting. I can see it in their thought bubbles.

Check out more cartoons and stuff by JD Crowe

JD Crowe is the cartoonist for Alabama Media Group and AL.com. He won the RFK Human Rights Award for Editorial Cartoons in 2020. In 2018, he was awarded the Rex Babin Memorial Award for local and state cartoons by the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Follow JD on Facebook, Twitter@Crowejam and Instagram @JDCrowepix. Give him a holler @jdcrowe@al.com.

\
A Tuscaloosa County lawmaker wants to establish strong criminal penalties for scammers who engage in sexual extortion schemes that result in teenage victims taking their own lives.

Rep. Ron Bolton, R-Northport, is sponsoring a bill in response to a crime that often targets adolescents with deadly consequences, especially boys.

The perpetrators contact their victims on social media and use fake identities, typically pretending to be young women.

They convince the victims to send them sexually explicit photos. Then they demand money with threats to post the pictures online or send them to the victims family and friends.

The FBI calls the scheme financially motivated sextortion and says it has resulted in an alarming number of suicides.

Boltons bill would put sexual extortion in Alabama under the crime of manslaughter if the victim is under 18 and dies, and if the court determines beyond a reasonable doubt that the sexual extortion directly led to the death.

Weve got to get control of this before it gets out of hand, said Bolton, who spent 25 years in law enforcement and retired as a captain with the Northport Police Department.

Its already, in fact, getting out of hand around the country because these organizations or individuals have found out that they can prey especially, specifically, on these young adolescent males.

Bolton said he consulted with the district attorneys association and others on the legislation.

Manslaughter is a Class B felony, punishable by two to 20 years in prison.

Boltons bill would make a new category of manslaughter for sexual extortion that results in the death of a minor.

It would be a Class A felony, which carries a prison sentence of 10 years to life.

Bolton said he worked extensively with victims during his police career. He said adolescent boys often do not know how to cope with being a victim of such a crime.

Adolescence is a very difficult time, Bolton said.

Girls seem to handle this a lot better than boys do. The boys see this as the end of their world when something like this happens and somebody claims theyre going to send these pictures to their family and put it out on the internet.

And most of these adolescent males, as far as I can tell, lack the coping mechanisms to handle stuff like this. Youre at a point in time in your life where youre very easily embarrassed and youre still trying to establish yourself in life.

And its just very, very hard for them to deal with. So what were seeing is these suicides are primarily coming from the adolescent males.

In January, an Alabama man pleaded guilty to conspiracy in connection with a Nigerian-based sextortion scheme that exploited young male victims from February 2021 through May 2022.

Jordan DeMay, a high school student in Marquette, Mich., died by suicide after he was targeted in the scheme.

Dinsimore Guyton Robinson, 30, of Huntsville, pleaded guilty to conspiracy in connection to the fraud, which used an Instagram account falsely identified as belonging to a woman named Dani Roberts to convince boys and young men to send nude images of themselves and then blackmailed them.

In February, Eli Hancock, 16, of Glasgow, Ky., took his own life after falling victim to what authorities believe was a sextortion scheme.

In that case, Elis father said the offender made AI-generated images of the boy and demanded $3,000 to stop the release of the pictures or harm to his family.

The suicide of a 15-year-old Wisconsin boy was believed to be the result of a sextortion scheme.

Another victim was a high school senior from San Jose, Calif.

According to the FBI, sextortion perpetrators have studied how to reach and connect with children and teens. They may offer money, cryptocurrency, gift cards, online game credits and other enticements to get a photo.

They rely on their victims being scared, embarrassed, and desperate.

Bolton said Alabama needs to be proactive to try to protect young people against the threat.

Weve got to put a mechanism in place where we can deal with that and try to shut it down before it gets out of hand here, Bolton said.

The legislative session starts Jan. 13.
President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he will nominate three new judges to serve on federal U.S. District Courts in Alabama.

Trump announced the nominees, Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour Jr., newly appointed Alabama Supreme Court Justice Bill Lewis and attorney Harold Hal Mooty, on Truth Social.

LaCour and Mooty, a partner at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, were nominated to serve on the U.S Northern District.

Lewis was nominated to serve on the U.S. Middle District.

Trump attempted to nominate LaCour to be a U.S. District Judge during his first term as president.

However, that failed when then-U.S. Sen. Doug Jones declined to return a blue slip backing him" which by Senate custom must be given by both home senators for a district court nomination to advance, Reuters reported.

Trump again re-nominated LaCour during the final days of his first presidency. President Joe Biden withdrew LaCours nomination during his presidency.

LaCour in 2022 argued on behalf of the state before the U.S. Supreme Court in defense of the Republican-drawn Congressional redistricting map. That map was later struck down by federal courts in favor of a map giving Alabama a second Black majority district.

Edmund has done a terrific job representing the Great State of Alabama, especially in cases before the United States Supreme Court, Trump posted on Truth Social.

Edmund earned his Law Degree from Yale University, and was a Law Clerk to Judge William Pryor. He is highly intelligent, talented, and will strongly protect the Constitution.

Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice Bill Lewis, appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey, is the fourth Black justice to serve on the nine-member court. Governor's office

Gov. Kay Ivey in May appointed Lewis to the state supreme court, replacing Justice Jay Mitchell, who resigned to run for Alabama Attorney General.

Lewis was the presiding circuit judge in the 19th Judicial Circuit in Elmore County before Ivey appointed him to the Court of Civil Appeals in February 2024.

As a Justice on the Alabama Supreme Court, Judge on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals, State Court Trial Judge, and Assistant District Attorney, Bill has proven his dedication to the Rule of Law throughout his entire career, Trump posted.

He is a courageous Patriot, who will ensure Law and Order, and always put our Constitution, FIRST.

AL.com asked Iveys spokeswoman if a replacement was lined up if Lewis is confirmed to the federal judgeship. Her office did not immediately respond.

Trump also congratulated Mooty.

Hal is one of the top Commercial Litigators in Alabama, a State that I love, and won BIG three times, in 2016, 2020, and 2024, Trump posted.

Hal earned both his Undergraduate and Law Degrees from the University of Alabama, and has developed an incredible reputation for being tough, smart, and fiercely devoted to the Rule of Law, and our Constitution. The Great People of Alabama will have a strong Champion in Hal.

The nominees were recommended by Alabama U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt.

Both Britt and Tuberville praised the announcement and celebrated having conservative judges filling in U.S. District Court seats.

As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I have worked tirelessly to bring Alabamas conservative values to the forefront of the committees work, especially when it comes to evaluating nominees for the federal judiciary, Britt said.

In order to maintain the credibility of the Judiciary, federal judges have a responsibility to faithfully interpret and apply the law in accordance with the Constitution and the laws that Congress has passed rather than seeking to legislate from the bench.

The White House knocked it out of the park with these Alabama nominees, Tuberville said.

Ever since President Trump took office, deranged, activist judges have done everything they can to stop President Trumps agenda. That wont happen in Alabama under my watch. Each of these Alabama nominees are committed to restoring law and order and ensuring our state remains a safe place for all Alabamians. I am confident that these nominees will uphold the Constitution in every decision and refuse to allow the judicial system to be weaponized for political gain.
High temperatures on Wednesday will be mostly in the 80s across Alabama, with clouds and higher rain chances in the forecast for many. National Weather Service

August in Alabama hasnt been so bad (so far), but more typical summer heat is expected to take over this weekend.

The National Weather Service is forecasting high temperatures on Wednesday to stay in the 80s for most of Alabama, thanks to increased chances for clouds in rain.

Areas at both ends of the state have gotten copious amounts of rain as of Wednesday morning.

Flash flooding was a concern in parts of Baldwin County in south Alabama overnight and this morning, and flooding was also a risk in northeast Alabamas Jackson County.

More rain will be possible today and Thursday. Here is the rainfall forecast from the National Weather Service through 7 p.m. Thursday:

Here is the outlook for rain through 7 p.m. Thursday for Alabama. NWS

No severe weather is expected today or Thursday, according to the Storm Prediction Center.

Heat levels are expected to ramp up over the next few days and will be into the 90s over the weekend.

Heres the forecast for Thursday:

Temperatures across Alabama on Thursday are expected to be a degree or two higher than on Wednesday. NWS

Friday could be a little hotter still:

Friday is expected to be warmer than Thursday by a degree or two. NWS

Those warmer temperatures are expected to hang on through the weekend.

What about for the rest of August? The trend is leaning toward near average to hotter-than-average temperatures for the rest of the month, according to NOAAs Climate Prediction Center.

Here is the temperature outlook for Aug. 20-26. Alabama could have near-average to above-average temperatures over that time period. Climate Prediction Center

The eight- to 14-day temperature (for Aug. 20-26) outlook suggests the northern half of Alabama will have near-average temperatures.

The southern half of Alabama has slightly increased probabilities of above-average temperatures. Coastal areas have the highest odds -- 40 to 50 percent, according to the CPC.

The CPC is expecting higher probabilities of above-average heat for all of Alabama from the end of August into the first part of September.










English News SW China's Xizang makes remarkable economic, social achievements over 60 years

Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 11 Aout 2025



Today, Xizang's natural environment is among the best preserved in the world. "We will firmly uphold the principle that 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets and so are ice and snow,' persistently serving as guardians to make the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau an ecological treasure shared by mankind and contributing more to building a shared future for all life on Earth," Wang said.

By Liu Botong, People's Daily This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of southwest China's Xizang autonomous region. Wang Junzheng, secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Xizang Autonomous Regional Committee, and Gama Cedain, deputy secretary of the CPC Xizang Autonomous Regional Committee and chairman of the People's Government of the region, introduced the region's remarkable economic and social development achievements at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on Aug. 5.



In 2024, the region's gross domestic product (GDP) reached 276.5 billion yuan ($38.52 billion), 155 times that of 1965 in constant prices. While it took the region 50 years to achieve its first 100 billion yuan in GDP, the second 100 billion yuan milestone was reached in just six years, Wang said.



Since 2021, sustained efforts have further expanded Xizang's economy while improving the quality and efficiency of growth. Modern industries, including clean energy, cultural tourism and plateau light industry, are laying the foundation for a modern industrial system. The region's key economic indicators have ranked among the highest growth rates in the country for several consecutive years, with its regional GDP projected to surpass 300 billion yuan this year, reaching the third 100 billion yuan milestone.



Xizang's infrastructure has also significantly improved. By the end of 2024, the total operational road length and the railway length in the region had reached 124,900 kilometers and 1,359 kilometers, respectively, and its domestic and international air routes reached 183. Four major power grids had been put into use, with the main grid now covering all counties, districts, and cities in the region.



These developments have substantially resolved historical infrastructure constraints, providing significant momentum for high-quality regional development, Wang noted.



Xizang boasts a long history and a splendid culture, alongside unique natural landscapes and rich cultural resources. It is an important center for preserving the distinctive culture of the Chinese nation and a major global tourism destination, enjoying exceptional advantages in developing the cultural tourism industry, which has experienced robust growth in recent years.



In 2024, the total output value of Xizang's cultural industry increased by 23.8 percent, according to Gama Cedain. The region received 63.89 million domestic and international visitors, marking a 15.8 percent year-on-year increase. Notably, the number of inbound tourists skyrocketed by 188.2 percent. In the first half of this year, Xizang welcomed over 32.18 million visitors, representing an 11.7 percent increase year on year.



Meanwhile, living standards have improved dramatically. In 2024, the per capita disposable income of urban residents in Xizang reached 55,444 yuan, 121 times that of 1965. The per capita disposable income of rural residents hit 21,578 yuan, 199 times that of 1965.



Xizang has achieved a comprehensive victory over poverty and eliminated absolute poverty. Education has been made a top priority, with the region leading the nation in providing a 15-year publicly funded education program from kindergarten to senior high school.



A comprehensive public healthcare system offers free health checkups for all farmers and herders, contributing to a regional life expectancy of 72.5 years. Accelerated urbanization has transformed settlements into modern towns.



Over the 60 years since the establishment of the autonomous region - particularly in the past five years - Xizang has vigorously advanced various livelihood projects and programs. People of all ethnic groups have witnessed transformative changes in their daily lives, such as shifting from carrying water in buckets to enjoying running water, from oil lamps to electric lighting, from dirt roads to paved highways, and from yurts to modern housing, according to Gama Cedain.



During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), the state and the autonomous region plan to allocate 24.65 billion yuan to support 28 categories of regional social development projects. As of now, 23.678 billion yuan has already been invested in these projects.



A wide range of livelihood initiatives have been effectively implemented, including centralized heating and oxygen supply in high-altitude areas, the resolution of seasonal water shortages in agricultural and pastoral zones, enhanced reliability of power supply, and comprehensive coverage of fiber-optic broadband and 4G networks.



Located on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, known as the "roof of the world" and "Asia's water tower," Xizang serves as a vital ecological security barrier for China. How can the region safeguard the plateau's unique ecological environment while preserving its biodiversity and natural wonders?



Xizang has adopted the strictest ecological protection system in accordance with law. It has firmly upheld a policy of rejecting the approval or introduction of projects and enterprises that are high in energy consumption and emissions but low in efficiency, strictly prohibiting any pollution-prone projects on the plateau. The region has actively promoted national park construction and advanced the afforestation project in the northern and southern mountains of Lhasa, the regional capital. Ecological conservation red line zones have been drawn for more than 50 percent of the region's land area, with protected areas of all types and levels now accounting for 37.95 percent of its land area.



Low-carbon development has also been vigorously pursued. In 2024, over 99 percent of electricity in Xizang was generated from clean energy, the highest of all regions in China. Non-fossil energy consumption in the region exceeded 55 percent of total energy use, placing it among the top in the country in green energy.



Today, Xizang's natural environment is among the best preserved in the world. "We will firmly uphold the principle that 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets and so are ice and snow,' persistently serving as guardians to make the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau an ecological treasure shared by mankind and contributing more to building a shared future for all life on Earth," Wang said.



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)
Actor Jung Il-woo is returning to the small screen in force, professing his strong love for acting at the press conference for KBS-2TV's new weekend family drama Splendid Days.

""I had a longing for acting. This was a project I risked my life for" Jung Il-woo explained at the production ceremony held at The Saint in D-Cube City in Sindorim, Seoul, on August 6.

The drama is Jung's return to KBS after 16 years and his first major role on television in three years since Good Job in 2022. His return is being eagerly anticipated by viewers and industry people alike.

In Splendid Days, Jung acts as Lee Ji-hyeok, a realistic and emotionally nuanced eldest son who walks a tightrope between reality and ideals.

"I play the role of the eldest son, and I am the eldest son in real life. I thought a lot about my relationship with my father," he explained.

"Thanks to senior Cheon Ho-jin's advice, I was able to portray the character in a three-dimensional way."

The family drama, which realistically addresses intergenerational conflict, has a solid creative team behind it.

It brings back director Kim Hyung-seok and writer So Hyun-kyung, the team that created the smash My Golden Life, which reached viewership ratings of up to 45.1%.

"This will be a drama that fathers and eldest sons living in this era can understand," director Kim said.

"Rather than peripheral stimulation, I will show you genuine fun and tears."

She joined the cast, with Jung In-sun playing Ji Eun-oh, a strong woman who has loved Ji-hyeok quietly since college days.

"Eun-oh is a woman who knows how to go straight when it comes to dreams and love. She is confident and lively," Jung In-sun stated.

"She is very similar to my real self and personality."

"This is my first weekend drama since my debut," she added.

"I feel more grateful than burdened... I'm putting my life on the line during filming."

The drama will also examine a complicated love triangle involving Ji-hyeok, Eun-oh, and Park Sung-jae (played by Yoon Hyun-min), adding depth to emotional dynamics.

"Actress Jung In-sun has a long career, so she was good at leading the atmosphere," said Jung Il-woo.

"I became close with Hyun-min naturally. He created a humorous scene.

Jung stressed the core of the drama is its emotional core: "Everyone is filming with passion and energy. I hope that energy is well conveyed.

Our drama is a work that allows us to think about the meaning of family once again."

Jung In-sun continued, "When I read the script, I thought it was like the four seasons.

I think viewers are going through their own seasons, so I hope they can empathize with the characters in our drama."

With its premiere scheduled for August 9 at 8 PM KST, Splendid Days aims to captivate a wide audience.

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't greedy for viewer ratings," said director Kim.

"We're aiming for 30%. It's a story that many people can relate to."
Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbards declassification of communications and reports that implicate Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, senior officials from the Obama administration, and former heads of the Intelligence Community in a conspiracy to frame President Trump with the Russia Collusion Hoax is nothing less than earth-shattering.

America has endured many political scandals. The country has never had to contend with anything of this magnitude  in which a lame-duck president abused and politicized national intelligence-gathering operations in order to blame an adversarial nuclear power for an embarrassing election loss and set in motion a series of fraudulently predicated criminal investigations intended to force President Trumps resignation from office or impeachment and removal.

As enormous as this scandal already is, it remains an ongoing criminal conspiracy. Every time former Obama officials  including former DNI James Clapper and former CIA director John Brennan  publicly lie about material facts regarding the Russia Collusion Hoax, they are acting as co-conspirators in a plot to defraud the American people, overthrow a legitimately elected president, and cover up past criminal activity.

Perhaps the only aspect of this story that could rival in size such treason against the United States is the corporate news medias continued refusal to report these events accurately without fear or favor. For many reasons, newsrooms will not do so. Because indoctrinated and committed leftists control the American press, journalists lack the requisite discernment to see beyond partisan political blinders and report facts that are personally troubling. Even worse, many journalists have redefined their professional role away from any responsibility for objective truth-telling and toward a kind of active agency in which they shape truth to advance a particular worldview. Journalists love Obama. They despise Trump. They are happy to act as assets for former Obama administration officials pushing lies and to hide facts that are politically inconvenient.

Journalists were and remain essential co-conspirators in the Russia Collusion Hoax. By publishing sensational stories that were often contradicted by a mountain of publicly available facts, the nations pre-eminent news companies aided and abetted the Clinton-Obama information war against the American people. As has been their wont in this era in which journalism resembles stenography, famous reporters simply repeated what corrupt members of Obamas Intelligence Community told them without ever verifying the accuracy of their reporting. When pressed to corroborate salacious details of their Russia Collusion Hoax stories, journalists habitually relied on anonymous sources from past or present government officials as tawdry proof that their shoddy journalism passed muster.

In exchange for acting as propagandists spreading disinformation and misinformation in a hybrid war being waged by powerful Democrats and Intelligence Community officials against citizens of the United States, reporters received promotions, celebrity recognition, book deals, and Pulitzer Prizes. Even after DNI Gabbards declassifications have exposed the corporate news medias Russia Collusion propaganda for the trashy clickbait that it is, reporters refuse to retract past lies, return Russia Collusionrelated awards or remuneration, or publicly admit any wrongdoing.

The American press corps is now so inextricably linked to the Democrat party and the corrupt Intelligence Community that it would rather pretend not to see the greatest scandal in American history than admit its own complicity in perpetrating mass fraud against citizens of the United States. These are, of course, the same professionals who refused to acknowledge President Bidens obvious cognitive decline for four years  going so far as to defame those who did notice as conspiracy theorists  only to claim today that the Biden administration simply pulled the wool over their eyes. Should the growing body of evidence documenting the Clinton-Obama conspiracy to overthrow President Trump become impossible to ignore, these same professionals will surely claim that powerful members of the Democrat Party, Obama administration, and espionage apparatus had them fooled, too.

The damage from the Russia Collusion Hoax cannot be overstated. The psychological warfare directed against the American people destroyed any residual social unity in a nation that has become only more divided since the turn of the century. The covert hybrid war engineered by Clinton confidants, Obama allies, and Intelligence Community spymasters constituted nothing less than sedition and treason against the legitimate government of the United States. Not only was President Trump handicapped during his first term by unlawfully predicated criminal investigations but also the Clinton-Obama-aligned co-conspirators further inflamed tensions with nuclear Russia, exhibiting malicious disregard for the safety of the citizens of the United States.

As a nation, we are lucky that the Clinton-Obama coup detat was ultimately unsuccessful. Had the Russia Collusion Hoax precipitated President Trumps resignation or provided enough political cover for corrupt co-conspirators in Congress to impeach and remove him, the American public would be today even more vulnerable to the machinations of a deeply immoral and dishonest Intelligence Community. Federal bureaucrats who operate in secret and without oversight remain a constant threat to the freedom of all Americans. Bureaucrats who would wage an information war against the American people and conspire to provoke kinetic war between Russia and the United States are a threat to all mankind.

After any disaster, the survivors must go on. It is at this time that sober, well-intentioned people take stock of troubling past events and look for potential lessons that can aid them in the future. It is fair to say that the Russia Collusion Hoax provides many. Among those, perhaps this is the most significant: No American should uncritically believe any supposed statement of fact coming from the press, the Intelligence Community, or any government official attempting to define truth by appealing to a title of authority.

Blind faith in powerful institutions ensures only that those institutions will become irredeemably corrupt. Healthy skepticism for official pronouncements and public debate of government-sponsored truths are indispensable ingredients for a free society. If any honest observer still clung to the naive belief that the Intelligence Community, permanent federal bureaucracy, or American news media were honest, impartial institutions acting on behalf of all Americans with dispassionate professionalism, the Russia Collusion Hoax should have exposed such comforting delusions as idealistic hogwash.

Here is another lesson vital to the survival of these United States: The president, in whom all executive power is vested, must have complete control of and total authority over the Intelligence Community, the executive departments, and the broader administrative state. There can be no extra-constitutional organ exercising executive power that feels emboldened to disregard lawful presidential orders and entitled to chart its own course. If every spy chief and agency manager operates as if vested with independent power and unilateral authority, then there are a thousand presidents governing the United States. As the Electoral College has not voted them into office, they are, in actuality, tyrants disguising their misappropriation of power behind titles of authority.

The Clinton-Obama Russia Collusion Hoax was nearly a successful coup detat precisely because the Executive Branch of the federal government has long been home to a thousand tyrants pretending to be presidents. For the Republic to endure, this betrayal of the U.S. Constitution must come to an end.

Acknowledging these truths adds significance to DNI Gabbards ongoing disclosures. At no time in American history has the Office of the President taken such direct aim at its own Intelligence Community. These public disclosures are embarrassing  which is why Americas rogue agencies have worked so hard to keep them classified. They are incriminating  which is why a reactionary public relations campaign (read: a new bombardment of information warfare) is underway to undermine DNI Gabbards authority and protect Russia Collusion Hoax perpetrators from legal accountability. Finally, these disclosures are an existential threat to the Intelligence Community  which is why former spies, current members of Congress, and the corporate news media continue to cover up the truth.

Image: Tulsi Gabbard. Credit: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Political differences have always existed in the United States, but the divide now cutting through families, friendships, workplaces, and communities has taken on a sharper, more unyielding edge. A thread by X user @TNG9791, posted on August 4, brought that reality into painfully personal focus. In it, the author contrasted the values, work ethic, and worldview of her two adult children and, in doing so, offered an unvarnished glimpse into the forces driving America further apart.

The conservative child, she wrote, works hard and has been steadily employed since graduating from college. He recently bought his first home, refuses to ask for help, and even believes he should repay his parents for the cost of raising him. The liberal child, by contrast, sees capitalism as evil and resents the expectation of working through adulthood, preferring a life centered on hedonism rather than hard work.

Image created using AI.

This difference in attitudes is not just ideological; it shapes how each child approaches responsibility, independence, and family relationships. The thread described the relationship with the liberal daughter as a roller coaster, marked by her disdain for her parents support of Donald Trump and her expectation of lifelong financial backing. The author lamented that liberal indoctrination, in her view, has turned one of her children into a stranger and eroded the shared values she believes once held the country together.

This is not an isolated story. It reflects a much larger phenomenon. Its one that science, sociology, and election returns all confirm. The nations ideological chasm is not just a matter of media influence, partisan spin, or cultural trends. Much of it is rooted in something far more fundamental: human biology.

For decades, research has shown that political orientation is not simply taught but strongly shaped by genetics. A landmark study in 2005 found that identical twins, who share nearly all their DNA, were far more likely to hold similar political beliefs than fraternal twins, even when raised in different environments. This work built on years of findings that certain traits  such as preference for order, risk tolerance, and openness to change  are passed down biologically.

By 2011, researchers had even identified genetic variations correlated with conservative political attitudes. These predispositions may influence why some voters prioritize tradition, national cohesion, and law-and-order policies. Such principles underpin much of Donald Trumps appeal.

A 2013 study published in Political Psychology used data from the Minnesota Twin Registry, which includes around 8,000 twin pairs born between 1936 and 1955, to explore the influence of genetics on political beliefs. By comparing identical twins with fraternal ones, researchers found that genetic factors account for approximately 56-58% of the differences in political ideology.

This is not to say the environment plays no role. In fact, where children grow up, their community values, the media they consume, and the schools they attend can intensify existing predispositions. But its important to understand that such environmental factors are not neutral anymore. They have become more polarized themselves.

By the mid-1990s, political parties were already hardening along ideological lines. Republicans coalesced around limited government, family traditions, and resistance to progressive cultural change. Democrats leaned more heavily into identity politics, government expansion, and social progressivism. These shifts meant that children growing up in conservative households and those in liberal ones were living increasingly different realities.

Geographic self-sorting has only made the split more severe. In 2008, Bill Bishops The Big Sort revealed how Americans have been consciously choosing to live among people who share their values, from the churchgoing small towns of Texas to the progressive enclaves of the Pacific Coast. In 1976, San Franciscos political balance was not so different from that of a rural county in Oregon. But over time, migration patterns created ideological strongholds, making it less likely for people to encounter and meaningfully interact with those who disagree.

This separation is not just about political affiliation; its about lifestyle. By 2020, conservatives and liberals were living strikingly different day-to-day lives, with Republicans more likely to value faith, rural living, and traditional family roles, while Democrats embraced urban, secular, and more fluid cultural norms.

Partisan animosity has surged alongside these changes. By 2016, 45% of Republicans viewed Democrats as a threat to the nations well-being, with Democrats returning the sentiment at nearly the same rate. In 2021, Pew Research reported that only 39% of Americans still identified as politically moderate. That figure has since fallen even further: a 2025 Gallup poll found just 34% of Americans now call themselves moderates, down from 43% in 1992.

The genetic piece makes this trend even more intractable. If political inclinations are, in large part, inherited, then no amount of bipartisan rhetoric will magically realign the population toward the center. Instead, as people continue to cluster into communities that reinforce their beliefs, and as national media and political leaders cater to these hardened bases, the divide will deepen.

This explains why calls for unity, however well-intentioned, often fall flat. A conservative who is biologically predisposed toward valuing stability, order, and tradition is unlikely to embrace sweeping cultural change simply because a centrist politician frames it as common sense. A liberal with a genetic leaning toward openness and novelty will see resistance to such change as privilege-driven obstructionism.

Politically segregated communities, polarized media ecosystems, and educational institutions that often lean heavily one way or the other do not just reflect the divide; they amplify it. Over time, they transform natural predispositions into hardened ideological identities.

Some Americans find this reality deeply troubling, hoping for a revival of cross-party cooperation. But the evidence suggests such hope is misplaced. This is not a temporary fever driven by a handful of polarizing figures. It is the product of both biology and decades-long social trends. The country is not simply arguing over policy; it is, in many ways, composed of two populations with fundamentally different lenses on reality itself.

The implications are profound. Political strategy in the years ahead will not be about persuading a vast middle, because that middle is shrinking. It will be about energizing those who are already ideologically committed and genetically inclined toward a particular worldview. For Republicans, and especially for Trump-aligned populists, this means doubling down on messages that resonate with the values of order, stability, national sovereignty, and cultural cohesion. For Democrats, it will mean doing the same with diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Neither side will likely admit how much of this divide is grounded in genetics. The science, however, suggests that political identity is often as fixed as eye color.

Environmental factors will continue to play a role, but given how polarized those environments have become, they are far more likely to reinforce existing leanings than to bridge them. And as Americans keep sorting themselves geographically, culturally, socially, and, of course, politically, the echo chambers will only grow louder.

The United States will keep producing families with relatives bound by blood, but separated by values so different they might as well have been raised on opposite sides of the world. For some, that is a tragedy. For others, it is simply the new reality. Either way, it is the path the nation is on, and there is no sign of it reversing.

Dr. Joseph Ford Cotto hosts and produces News Sight, speaking the data-driven truth about economic and political issues that impact you. During the 2024 presidential election, he created the Five-Point Forecast, which correctly predicted Trumps national victory and the outcome in all swing states. The author of numerous nonfiction books, Cotto holds a doctorate in business administration and is a Lean Six Sigma Certified Black Belt. During 2014, HLM King Kigeli V of Rwanda bestowed a hereditary knighthood upon him. It was followed by a barony the next year.
If you thought New York politics couldnt get more cynical, think again.

An expose from The New York Post has shone a harsh spotlight on one more act in the citys ideological theater of the absurdJews for Zohran, a meticulously choreographed campaign crafted to launder the record of Zohran Mamdani, the self-styled Democratic Socialist assemblyman from Queens with a well-documented history of Israel-bashing.

The groups name sounds grassrootsalmost quaintlike typical campaign affinity group fare.

But its roots lie not in Astoria or the Bronx, and certainly not in Israel, but halfway around the globe in Shanghai, where pro-Beijing billionaire Neville Roy Singham now resides.

And heres the kicker: the political director behind Jews for Zohran is Alicia Singham Goodwin, niece of the Marxist tech mogul long accused of pushing Chinese Communist Party narratives through a web of shell organizations and activist fronts.

The niece of the China-based billionaire purportedly backing left-wing protest groups in the US spearheaded the Jews for Zohran Mamdani campaign  a bid to give the Israel-bashing candidate cover from antisemitism accusations and win over Jewish voters, The Post reports.

Let that sink in. A family member of Neville Roy Singhama CCP-aligned operative bankrolling far-left activismis running cover for New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani.

And Mamdani needs it. He has branded Israel an apartheid regime, endorsed the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, and accused it of operating in all its settler-colonial forms.

Pressed during the June Democrat mayoral debate on whether Israel has the right to exist as a Jewish state, Mamdani replied, As a state with equal rights.

In a follow-up TV interview, he claimed, Im not comfortable supporting any state that has a hierarchy of citizenship on the basis of religion or anything else Equality should be enshrined in every country in the world.

The problem? Its an ideological canarda stock trope of the BDS movement, not an accurate reading of Israeli law.

While the Law of Return grants Jews worldwide a path to automatic citizenship and the 2018 Nation-State Law affirms Israels Jewish national identity, once citizenship is granted, Israeli Arabs, Druze, Christians, and other minorities hold the same legal rights as Jewish citizensvoting, property ownership, free speech, and eligibility for public office.

Mamdanis hierarchy charge is more than just wrongits agitprop, collapsing the distinction between Israels national identity and its civil rights protections to cast the very idea of a Jewish state as inherently illegitimate.

He has also repeatedly declined to condemn the slogan globalize the Intifada, calling it symbolic and insisting it is not the mayors position to police language. Only after sustained backlash did he say he avoids the phrase and now discourages its usethis, despite declaring the Palestinian cause central to my identity, both in and out of politics.

As it turns out, Jews for Zohran operates as a finely tuned shield for Mamdaniwhether he is abroad or back in New Yorkwhile his political operatives and media allies work to sculpt and reinforce the narrative in his favor.

According to the Post,

Jews for Zohran is now working with city Comptroller Brad Lander and Rep. Jerry Nadler to persuade more Jewish political figuressuch as Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Dan Goldmanto back Mamdani for mayor.

Singham, a Marxist, amassed his fortune in American techselling his company ThoughtWorks for $785 million in 2017before relocating to China, where he and his wife, CodePink co-founder Jodie Evans, run a global far-left funding network.

The Network Contagion Research Institute describes them as a power couple within the international hard left, with close financial, interpersonal, and ideological ties to the CCP.

From his PRC base, Singham has funneled millions into far-left causes worldwidemany mirroring Beijings agenda. In the U.S., that means bankrolling groups that parrot CCP talking points: anti-Israel, anti-West, and anti-capitalist.

Unsurprisingly, his funding has avoided organizations that genuinely support Jewish or pro-Israel interests, channeling his network ever deeper into a CCP-aligned revolutionary ecosystem.

The Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) found that the Shut It Down for Palestine (SID4P) movementformed after the October 2023 Hamas attackis powered by groups like the Peoples Forum, ANSWER Coalition, and International Peoples Assembly (IPA), all tied to Singhams CCP-linked network.

Far from organic protest, these convenors pursue a militant, ideologically driven agenda openly hostile to the United States and the core institutions of Western democracy.

The George Washington Universitys Program on Extremism, in its July 2025 report on CCP influence in U.S. pro-Palestinian activism, similarly warns that Singhams funding helped fuel disruptive mass protests aligning with Beijings global strategic interests, citing documented links between his network and groups organizing those actions.

As the Heritage Foundation notes, the network that Singham operates with his wife has become a breeding ground for radicalization.

In Heritages telling, the Capital Jewish Museum murdersin which the accused gunman shouted Free Palestine while opening fire outside the D.C. museumstand as a grim example of how this ideological pipeline, fueled by foreign-aligned extremist activism, can spill over into lethal real-world violence.

Operating from his post in China, Singham even shares premises with Shanghai Maku Cultural Communications Ltd., a Chinese propaganda firm focused on presenting a positive image of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) to the global south.

According to a 2023 New York Times report, his ties to the propaganda machine date back at least to 2019, when, corporate documents show, he started a consulting business with Chinese partners. Those partners are active in the propaganda apparatus.

Despite this history, Singham's network is now promoting a political front group whose branding trades heavily on Jewish identity, aiming to court Jewish support in the closely watched Manhattan mayoral campaign.

Here, the face is Mamdaniwho checked the box for Black or African American on his Columbia application despite being of Indian ancestry, born in Uganda, and from a well-connected East AfricanSouth Asian family.

His father is a tenured professor at Columbia. His mother is a filmmaker. Yet Mamdani has styled himself as a revolutionary underdogdespite benefiting from every elite institution and every ideological cover story that money and media can buy.

The left has mastered ideological launderingusing identity groups to deflect criticism and smear opponents, wrapping themselves in slogans to slip past scrutiny.

Jews for Zohran is a textbook case of this cynical tactic: take a divisive, radical figure and surround him with religious branding and media allies until he looks untouchable.

The New York City mayoral race is drawing global attentionand behind the scenes, a coordinated international operation is backing him. American voters, especially Jewish voters, deserve to know when a groups branding is being weaponized to advance the agenda of foreign operatives and radical ideologues.

In the end, Jews for Zohran may be the most Orwellian political slogan yetbecause behind the curtain, the star they march under isnt white and blue at all. Its redstamped Made in China, and carried straight into the heart of American politics by a CCP-aligned network that knows precisely what its doing.

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. For media inquiries or speaking engagements, please click here. X: @CharltonAllenNC

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
It has been 130 years since Sigmund Freud and Josef Breuer introduced the world to the idea of a talking cure in their 1895 paper on the treatment of hysteria. And while many schools of psychotherapy have since come and gone, the mission of the vast majority of mental health professionals has until recently remained the same: To free troubled patients from self-defeating beliefs, to help them decide for themselves the deeper questions of faith and personal philosophy, and to encourage them to set their own priorities.

It is therefore ironic -- and even more disheartening -- that having done so much to help earlier generations think for themselves, professional psychology has today become an institution that seeks to promote a rigid, externally devised, and even painful worldview. Dispensing with long-established techniques for helping people overcome cognitive and behavioral difficulties, a growing number of counselors now practice a progressive alternative called Social Justice Therapy (SJT). As the name implies, it blames personal problems on the social power of uncaring elites and attempts to recruit patients as activists for government programs to assist disadvantaged groups.

While exact numbers are elusive, recent research by concerned observers like Richard E. Redding of the Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Chapman University, suggests that between 25 to 40 percent of working therapists -- social workers, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and various counselors -- now believe that their primary job is to engineer social change. And while this range is not yet a majority, it is already at or above the 25% threshold usually needed for a rising trend within a profession to become a settled norm. Indeed, even therapists who do not subscribe to SJT report growing pressure to mimic its tenets at public forums and academic gatherings.

What is clear is the extent to which SJT now dominates the training of American mental health workers. For example, the five core values of George Mason Universitys Counseling Program, highlighted in its mission statement, are social justice, multiculturalism, internationalism, advocacy, and leadership. The University of Tennessees psychology department similarly bases its coursework on the feminist, multicultural, and social justice principles of equity, sharing power, giving voice, raising consciousness, and cultural humility. Even many medical schools, as American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Sally Satel has warned, are shifting their psychiatry curricula toward social justice and the identity of the physician [as] activist.

Equally clear is the alarm of traditional therapists like Jonathan Alpert, who has seen firsthand in his New York City and Washington, D.C., practices how a healthcare system that once fostered resilience has become a tool for promoting victimhood and social division. One female patient, he remembers, told me her previous therapist urged her to quit a new job after only one week because it triggered her. The real issue was [her] difficulty taking directions. But instead of confronting it, the therapist simply validated her discomfort.

Another patient was told that setting healthy boundaries meant cutting off her entire family. No conversation, no healing -- just isolation framed as progress. This is not therapy. It is enabling [unhealthy relationships].

To fully appreciate what has happened to psychotherapy, one must first recognize that the field has always attracted a disproportionately large number of leftists. A 2019 survey by Nili Solomonov of Weill Cornell Medical College and Adelphi University researcher Jacques P. Barber is just one of many which reveal the extent to which mental health workers are politically biased. In their own study, two-thirds of therapists identified as Democrat, just under a quarter as Independent, but only 7 percent as Republican.

But until recently, almost every trained counselor would have said that letting ones politics influence patient treatment was not only unethical, but professionally incompetent. A long line of studies, beginning in 1936, has consistently shown that the only factor associated with successful outcomes is the willingness of the therapist to separate his or her private convictions from those of the client. To develop a posture of caring neutrality technically known as the therapeutic alliance.

The clear implication of this approach, as Dr. Jerome Frank noted in his classic text, Persuasion and Healing: A Comparative Study of Psychotherapy (1961), is for a therapist to never begin treatment with a predetermined idea of what the patient should end up thinking. And historically, even the most left-leaning counselors have observed this caution.

The unfortunate willingness of todays practitioners to violate the therapeutic alliance owes much to the rise of progressive activism at the colleges and universities where they were taught. As University of Chicago research associate Pamela Paresky and California State University professor Bradley Campbell have documented, what started as left-wing campaigns to censor supposedly harmful words (microaggressions) eventually became a pretext for not just keeping conservative speakers off campus but dictating what could be taught in social science departments, with the result that aspiring counselors who already leaned Left were no longer discouraged from mixing politics with therapy, while politically moderate students felt little choice but to get with the new program.

And even after graduation, most therapists remain under the sway of journals, publishers, professional organizations, and other progressively biased academic institutions. For example, the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics lists promoting social justice alongside cultural competence as a core value of the field. And the American Psychological Associations (APA) official Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men frames stoicism, competitiveness, self-reliance, and other traditionally male traits so negatively that one reviewer compared it to psychiatric abuse in the old Soviet Union.

The good news is that despite the many pressures to conform, a small number of mental health workers are attempting to reverse their professions shift from individual healing to social activism. In 2020 an organization called Critical Therapy Antidote was set up with the explicit goal of preserving the long established apolitical tradition in talking therapies. And in 2022, former University of Pennsylvania Medical School dean Stanley Goldfarb founded a non-profit called Do No Harm, which focuses on keeping identity politics out of health-related education, research, and clinical practice.

There is even an online directory for would-be patients wanting to discuss their problems with someone who is not a political activist. And at least two recently published texts, Cynical Therapies. Perspectives on the Antitherapeutic Nature of Critical Social Justice, edited by Dr. Val Thomas, and Ideological and Political Bias in Psychology. Nature, Scope, and Solutions, co-edited by Dr. Craig Frisby and others, help students to see the inherent contradiction of trying to free a troubled mind while simultaneously indoctrinating it.

Supporting all these efforts is the Society for Open Inquiry in the Behavioral Sciences, founded in 2022 out of concern that sociopolitical dogmas and ideological norms were ruining social science. In addition to publishing its own journal and textbooks, the group hosts conferences, sponsors online events, and runs a website aimed at separating progressive activism from professional practice.

But perhaps the most promising development is the growing body of research which suggests that social justice counseling not only fails to cure emotional problems but actually aggravates them. Recent studies from the Journal of Research in Personality, SSM-Mental Health, Pew Research, and FiveThirtyEight founder Nate Silver all show that left-wing thought has an intrinsic tendency to make people depressed, anxious, and indecisive -- some quite seriously. This is consistent with older psychological experiments on so-called learned helplessness, which showed how believing ones problems to be caused by powerful external forces (rather than subject to personal control) made them harder to overcome.

Even though such findings have yet to persuade todays progressive therapists to reprioritize patient well-being over social justice recruitment, they will eventually have to come to terms with the fact that practicing SJT has harmed their own mental health. Until then, any unhappy person wanting to talk with someone else about his or her troubles needs to be aware that too many in the so-called helping professions are more interested in changing the world than in curing the individual.

Image: AT via Magic Studio
NY AG Letitia James told the public, even before she was elected, that she was going to get Donald Trump. She filed a civil lawsuit against him in 2022, and claimed that his scheme was to gain more favorable lending conditions and insurance deals.

Now, James will be investigated by the Department of Justice for her actions:

The Department of Justice convened a grand jury to investigate New York Attorney General Letitia James, marking an escalation in President Donald Trumps fight with New Yorks top prosecutor. The investigation is being run out of Albany and focused on possible deprivation of rights allegations, two well-placed sources familiar with the probe told Fox News Digital. The investigation, which came at the direction of Attorney General Pam Bondi, is in an early stage, but Fox News Digital has learned that Jamess office received subpoenas for documents this week, including for information related to her civil fraud lawsuit against Trump.

As a prosecutor, Jamess job is to seek justice forwrongs committed against victims and a society, and as stewards of public resources, prosecutors must not bring frivolous, vindictive, or malicious cases before judges and juries.

Since James openly announced her intention to target Trump before she was even elected, her motivations are seriously suspect.

The case for fraud is also in doubt. Fraud requires that the other party suffer damages. In Trumps situation, no one protested his property valuations, or claimed they were harmed, with bank managers even testifying that they would certainly do business with Trump again. The banks are also responsible for their own due diligence, which they did. Heres this, from the New York Times:

Mr. Trump has protested the premise of the case, insisting that the banks did their own due diligence and that misstatements in the financial documents would not have affected the overall terms of the loans. It follows, his lawyers have argued, that the alleged fraud had no victim. The bankers who testified this week supported that argument when asked about the loan process. We are expected to conduct some due diligence and verify the information provided, to the extent that is possible, David Williams, a banker in the wealth management group at Deutsche Bank, said on Tuesday. He said repeatedly that the bank had performed that diligence and factored its own analysis into the relationship with Mr. Trump.

Finally, the action of overvaluing property is a common real estate tool:

Shark Tank star Kevin OLeary described the massive fines levied against Trump in the civil fraud case as appalling; and un-American. Which would be accurate descriptors of Jamess entire tenure as AG. What developer doesnt ask for the highest price valued for any building they built? he told the New York Post. It is a reference to the crux of James argument, that Trump overvalued his properties. Which everybody in the real estate business does. Even Don Peebles, a former prominent fundraiser for both of Barack Obamas presidential campaigns, hammered Tish for going after Trump, not based on enforcing the law, but as a personal attack. I have expressed concern that I think that this is a very slippery slope to selectively enforce an archaic law that has got no victim, he stated.

Whether the grand jury calls for an indictment or not, Letitia James is likely in hot water regarding her conduct of the case against Donald Trump.

I hope they throw her out.

Image from Grok.
The asymmetrical trade agreement between the EU and the U.S. will further worsen Germanys recession. Yet neither politicians nor corporate leaders show any willingness to make the sweeping policy changes needed to reverse course.

Germanys economic data leaves no room for illusions. After contracting by 0.9% in 2023 and another 0.5% last year, the decline will continue this year.

The Machine Room Has Been Blown Apart

It is precisely the sectors that have sustained German prosperity for decades -- automobiles, construction, machinery -- that are under the heaviest pressure. Without the artificial boost from state spending -- now accounting for half of GDP -- the private sector is set to shrink by 4-5% this year.

Since 2018, total productivity has been in steady decline. This is also a social problem: Germany is importing hundreds of thousands of welfare migrants into its social systems, yet the economy would have to boom just to keep per capita prosperity from falling.

A new survey by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) confirms what was already obvious: the EU-U.S. trade deal will especially hurt Germanys export-oriented economy.

According to the survey, 58% of companies expect additional burdens, rising to 74% for firms with direct U.S. business. Only 5% expect any benefit.

This deal may have been politically necessary, but for many German companies its a bitter pill, said DIHK CEO Helena Melnikov. Higher tariffs, more bureaucracy, falling competitiveness -- thats the price of the diplomatic truce between Washington and Brussels.

As of Thursday, a general 15% tariff applies to exports to the U.S., hitting automotive and machinery manufacturers hardest. 89% of U.S.-oriented firms report immediate disadvantages, 72% fear further tariff hikes, 80% worry about political arbitrariness in transatlantic trade, and more than half plan to scale back U.S. operations.

Business Was Already Weak

In its May survey of over 21,000 companies, only 23% reported positive business expectations -- down five points -- while 30% expected deterioration. In industry, one in three anticipates fewer orders.

Just 19% plan to increase investment, while about a third plan to cut back. High energy prices, labor shortages, and political uncertainty are seen as the main drags. The DIHK forecasts a 0.3% recession for 2025, but adjusting for state spending, the real decline is closer to 4-5%.

Daily surveys confirm the same message: Germany is being deindustrialized, losing hundreds of thousands of core-sector jobs. The social security deficits already emerging are just the beginning. Yet both politics and business refuse to conduct an honest diagnosis.

The Green Deal remains sacrosanct. Energy costs for German industry are up to three times higher than for U.S. competitors, double that of French firms -- pushing energy-intensive sectors out of the country.

Dancing Around the Golden Calf

Nobody dares openly challenge Brussels climate agenda. A rare exception came in June, when a group of works council representatives wrote an open letter to the chancellor, naming the Green Deal as a root cause of decline.

But most CEOs dodge the question. Mercedes-Benz chief Ola Kallenius cites weak demand, high production costs, and US tariff uncertainty for falling margins -- but ignores the Green Deals role. VW CEO Oliver Blume calls for lower energy prices and tax incentives for EVs -- essentially more subsidies to keep the transition alive.

Corporate leadership is now fused ideologically with the Green Deal. The energy transition has battered Germanys industrial base: sectors like construction and automotive have been knocked completely off track.

A Split Economy

Events like the Made for Germany coffee chat between 61 CEOs and the Chancellor are symbolic of a corporatist mindset. Large corporations can adjust or relocate production to sidestep regulation, but small and medium-sized enterprises -- the Mittelstand -- are being crushed.

The Green Deals bureaucratic weight ultimately clears the field for big corporations by eliminating smaller competitors.

The Mittelstand has no political backing, and many are fighting daily for survival -- often ending in bankruptcy. In H1 2025, insolvencies rose 9.4% year-on-year to 11,900 companies.

There is still no sign of a policy shift on climate. The German corporate elite has failed to seize the initiative to force political change. Germany is heading for a hot autumn -- economically and socially.

Image: Pixabay
My hometown, Greenwood Village, is 75 years old. We were created in the same year: 1950. Those were golden years in a golden time.

We learned foundational truths about living and life. Our fathers had come back from a terrible world war, victorious. Our mothers had skimped and saved and fretted for the safety of their loved ones and the entire future of individual freedom. Our world was free of dictators. Our combined sacrifice and discipline had proven stronger than the evil that had initiated a world conflict and attempted to have its way over our freedom.

This was the golden moment when we united in a common goal to preserve individual freedom through exercise of our G-d-given rights as detailed in our profound Constitution.

Diversity and morality were not demanded by a central control agency, but exercised by every citizen because it was the way we were taught to live by our parents and grandparents. It was a universally known truth that united our citizens in common ethical behavior.

All freedom springs from the individual willing to stand against any tyrant, especially if that tyrant is our own government.

Alexis de Tocqueville, a Frenchman, traveled America in the early 1800s. His keen and astonished observation was that Americans, even those living remotely on the frontier, were intelligently conversant in the meaning of a constitutional republic. The least educated person understood the principle that had forged America. It wasnt some unattractive law, but the deep understanding of what it meant to be free.

The vast majority of citizens lived by a code enlightened by the Declaration of Independence: All men are created equal, they are endowed by their Creator with the inalienable right to Life, Liberty and Ownership of Property. This knowledge of the divine decree was held in each individuals heart, not enforced by some agency. The higher entity was our Creator, not some man-made law.

Therefore, all citizens lived by this creed and acted according to the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. We developed mutual respect for one anothers rights because, by respecting each individuals rights, we sustained our own freedom. We would never take anothers property because someone else could take ours.

Lurking behind the scenes was a darker concept that didnt come to light for decades in our own nation. That dark concept was central control by an all-powerful government. Our fathers had fought the same evil in world war against an all-powerful central government; it was called National Socialist German Workers Party, or the Nazis. We fought the central control aspects of communism in Russia and the CCP in China. That battle rages today, as it has through eternity.

Sadly, our own nation has felt the deleterious effects of central control through our own governments expansion of powers not granted it in the Constitution. Add up all the taxes and fees you pay to the city, county, state, and nation for the privilege of living here.

All money spent by the government must first be taken from the citizen. Many of us pay 30% to 50% of our income to the government in taxes and fees. I dont think we are getting a good deal.

Consider the vicious cycle of excessive spending by a government entity: They can tax us at will and put us into debt on a whim, all to fund their addiction to spending, to central control. Remember that simple phrase in the Declaration: inalienable right to ownership of our property.

Im not suggesting there is a cabal of malcontents actively colluding to destroy our freedom. Rather, many who chose a career in government think, erroneously, that government is always the solution. Since they think they are smarter than anyone else, they believe in the infallibility of bureaucracy. After all, they cant be greedy like capitalists... Yet we see so many examples of taxpayers money flowing into NGOs and enriching these bureaucrats.

When the government over-spends and still makes commitments, that same government entity puts every citizen into debt by issuing Treasury bonds. Politicians and bureaucrats do not honor the third freedom enumerated in the Declaration  namely, the individual right to ownership of property. Our right to own what we have earned is subtended by a government willing to tax, spend, and put debt on our shoulders. Do we really own anything when a bureaucrat can take it?

It is ironic that in 1950, we had just defeated a nation dedicated to central control through its government, and less than 75 years later, we face the same threat inside our own nation. Our own government has extended its grasp far beyond that envisioned in our founding documents. Fortunately, we can readily reverse this trend to oppression by understanding and adhering to the original, and still valid, principle of limited government so that the individual will remain free.

I wouldnt want to live any other place than right here in America. We are still a shining beacon for individual freedom. We need only enlighten our fellow citizens to this principle. Truth will do the rest.

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank. He is a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist. He believes that there is a direct connection joining individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

Image: PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
(See also, After millions of taxpayer dollars and months of crippling issues, city-funded grocery store in Missouri abruptly closes its doors by Olivia Murray.)

Recently, the Washington Post reported that more cities and states across the country  are experimenting with the concept of publicly supported grocery stores, as the socialist candidate for New York City mayor, Zohran Mamdani has called for New York City to build.

They reported on one in Kansas City, known as KC Sun Fresh, open for seven years, with cash flow and social issues problems.

At a community meeting last year, [Emmet] Pierson Jr. [who leads the nonprofit that leases the site from the city] played videos of security incidents so graphic he gave a warning in advance  a naked woman parading through the store throwing bags of chips to the ground, another person urinating in the vestibule and a couple fornicating on the lawn of the library in broad daylight.

KC Sun Fresh had 17 million public bucks in the rearview mirror and was near death at the time the article in the Post was published about a month ago.

It is now dead.

Kansas City's subsidized supermarket, which has been compared to Mamdani's NYC grocery store proposal, is shutting down permanently.



It cites "unforeseen circumstances beyond our control." https://t.co/WaUQ8I6ibJ pic.twitter.com/mRFwv0dqDy  Chuck Ross (@ChuckRossDC) August 12, 2025

It opened in 2018 and was run for a time by a private grocer.

In 2022, Mr. Piersons non-profit, mentioned by the Post, took over.

By early this year, just seven years later, it was on fumes.

The local mayor, Quinton Lucas, a Democrat in his second term, said  "he [saw] two challenges: The first w[as] saving the current store. Changing consumer behavior w[as] another, he said.

He meant thievery. Unfortunately, the people involved, who were arrested, were set free right away. (This, by the way, is what I fear in Trumps takeover of D.C. Its all well and good to have D.C. Attorney Jeanine Pirro send up charges against thieves and robbers, but shell be sending them to the same liberal judges who regard revolving doors as compassionate.)

With the perps continuously going in and out, as they did in Kansas City, it allowed them to hop on the local bus system  free since the pandemic  and head back to the same location and offend again. It got so bad at KC Fresh, according to the local police chief there, that the perps were all recognizable on sight.

The store then entered its predictable death throes: bare shelves, high crime, few shoppers, and not one of the lefties interviewed in the article realized it was their own soft-on-crime policies that led to it. They saw the problems. Literally naked and throwing potato chips in front of them. But none of them talked about getting harder on crime. They just shrugged and said they need to change behavior.

Well, yes. But it was the behavior of the lefties in charge which needed to change and couldve changed quickly  if only they had.

Yes, the perps are absolutely responsible for their own behavior, but the repeat offenders were 100% on the policies of those Democrats in charge. That they couldve changed  but didnt. Or wouldnt. Either way, it started, and KC Sun Fresh ended, with them.

Image: Screen shot from X
Brigitte Macron slapping her husband, French President Emmanuel Macron in the face at the door of the presidential airplane is a perfect analogy for his international fortunes. In addition to his continued woes on the domestic front, Macron has suffered a series of defeats resulting from his ill-advised foreign policy decisions. From his deteriorating relationship with President Donald Trump to his selling out to Palestinian terrorists, Macron is rapidly losing his moral compass, therefore eroding French credibility on the world stage.

Macron has gone from having been the one leader to call for an international coalition to fight off Hamas militarily right after the terrorist group massacred, tortured, and raped 1200 Israeli civilians, including 42 French nationals, to being thanked by Hamas for pushing recognition of a Palestinian state. Indeed, despite Macron committing not to recognize Palestine if Hamas didn't free all Israeli hostages; if Hamas wouldn't be disarmed and if the Palestinian Authority wouldn't be reformed, he will do it in September at the UNGA.

But two recent reports have shown Macrons true nature.

In June 2020 a high-level meeting initiated by France took place in Doha, Qatar, between top French intelligence officials representing President Macron and Hamas leadership including Musa Abu Marzouk and Khaled Meshaal.

French officials told EU-designated terror group Hamas that they did not agree at all with U.S. policy in the Middle East. The French added it was their "pleasure" to meet up, stating that it was part of the historical French support for "the Palestinian cause." The Hamas leadership made it clear that they were undeterred by the "Zionist entity" and that they will continue their "resistance" "until the final victory." The French delegation didn't push back at all.

The second story revealed that thanks to their informers in Gaza, the French intelligence services were aware of a major Hamas attack two years before October 7. Hamas mastermind Yahya Sinwar directly told the French of a major Hamas offensive that would include an invasion of Israel. France also knew that in the summer 2023, Hamas provided weapons to competing Salafi groups and that scores of young Hamas terrorists were training in Lebanon and Syria for the upcoming attack.

Macrons relationship with Trump is symbolic of the French president losing the plot. During President Trumps first term, Macron was considered the Trump whisperer. Their bromance outwardly flourished while in reality, the two leaders shared few common objectives. Unsurprisingly, things went south. Since Trump returned to the White House, Macron has repeatedly antagonized the U.S. What happened at the recent G7 was particularly telling. After abruptly leaving the summit, President Trump lashed out at Macron:

Publicity seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a 'cease fire' between Israel and Iran. Wrong! (...) Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong.

After the U.S. hit the Fordo nuclear facility in Iran, Macron described the airstrikes as illegal. So much for the support to Israel and the U.S. that are doing the dirty work for all of us, as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz rightly said. Macron knows better than anyone that Merz is correct, because since 1979 France has been among the top enemies of the bloody regime in Tehran despite harboring Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1978-1979. France failed to protect the Shahs last prime minister, Shapour Bakhtiar, who was assassinated by the Ayatollahs agents in 1991 in a Paris suburb. In the 1980s, Iran, through its main proxy, Hezballah, carried out terror attacks in France and Lebanon against French interests. Frances dedication to western secular values made it a target of Islamist terror attacks time and again.

For the past 46 years, Iran has used kidnapping to exert pressure on France, including the arrest of French tourist Lennart Monterlos in Iran just a few weeks ago. Since Paris is actually terrified that Tehran could decide to perpetrate terror attacks this summer in France or against French interests around the world, Macron does not want to antagonize the mullahs, but seems to have no issue with verbally attacking the U.S. and Israel.

No doubt Macron was furious at being upstaged by Israel and then by the U.S. when the 12-day-war to stop Tehran from attaining a nuclear weapon compelled the French president to postpone a UN conference, co-sponsored by Saudi Arabia, to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to push for a two-state solution while Hamas still rules parts of Gaza. The Trump Administration had lobbied countries not to attend the conference, warning that nations that would take anti-Israel actions would face diplomatic consequences from the U.S.

Not only does Macron increasingly present himself as an opportunist chasing headlines with no clear principles or vision, he is also becoming more dangerous by the day by undermining not only U.S. priorities and interests in the Middle East, but also the West as a whole.

Olivier Guitta is the Managing Director of GlobalStrat , a security and geopolitical risk consulting company for companies and governments. Olivier tweets @OlivierGuitta

Image: Faces of the World
A newly declassified 2023 FBI FD-302 interview report from FBI director Kesh Patel reveals notes from a staffer who blew the whistle on Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.)s alleged involvement in classified leaks during his tenure as ranking member of House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI).

The whistleblower reported that during a 2017 meeting, Schiff instructed staff to leak classified information to the press to discredit President Trump and lay the groundwork for indictments.

Schiff served as ranking member of HPSCI from January 3, 2015 to January 3, 2019. In January 2019, Schiff became chairman of the committee, holding that role until January 3, 2023.

Important Context for the Leaks: The Mood after the 2016 Election

According to the FD-302, the mood following the November 2016 election was shaped by a particularly upset Schiff, who had been hoping for a Hillary Clinton victory and, reportedly, a future appointment as CIA director. The whistleblower said the minority as a whole viewed Trumps win and its aftermath as a constitutional crisis.

A redacted source from the 302, who considers SCHIFF a friend, asserted that it was SCHIFFs plan to release classified information in order to compel public opinion, which SCHIFF justified as a response to a constitutional crisis.

Driven by animosity toward Trump, committee members allegedly sought to drive the Russian involvement issue into a joint inquiry as a means to undermine his presidency. Staffers were therefore directed to use any sources they had developed in the USIC to gather information to funnel it to the media in hopes of influencing public perception.

The Russia Team and Backchannel Leaks

The whistleblower recounted the formation of a Russia team that would compose summaries on a stand-alone computer  set up by HPSCIs network administrator  kept in a back room and reserved exclusively for the team.

Throughout 2017, the whistleblower voiced concerns over leaks with media and a particular foreign government that should have been prohibited. Before leaving the committee, the whistleblower reported that [redacted] overheard [redacted] tell other staffers on more than one occasion that he would use his spouses phone to make calls, which [redacted] believed was a purposeful measure to conceal his activity. The whistleblower also claimed that cut-outs were used to leak classified material to reporters.

In multiple sessions  including during a 2023 meeting in St. Louis  the staffer said the DOJ declined to pursue charges, citing speech and debate immunity for congressmen. However, the whistleblower did not believe that the activity he witnessed would be protected by this legal provision. He also named Rep. Eric Swalwell as a likely conduit for leaks to the media.

He gave as an example a particularly sensitive document ... viewed by a small contingent of staff, as well as SCHIFF and Representative ERIC SWALWELL. Within 24 hours, the information appeared in the news almost verbatim and [redacted] officials descended on HPSCIs offices, threatening to stop providing information unless leaking ended.

The whistleblower called the leaks unethical and treasonous, prompting him to go to the FBI.

Schiffs Alleged 2017 Directive

According to the whistleblower, Schiff announced in an all-staff meeting in 2017 that

the group would leak classified information which was derogatory to the President of the United States Donald J. TRUMP. SCHIFF stated the information would be used to indict President TRUMP. [Redacted] stated this would be illegal and, upon hearing his concerns, unnamed members of the meeting reassured [redacted] that they would not be caught leaking classified information.

The whistleblower further explained that the leaking process within the [HPSCI] minority ... was not a one-time thing ... notes would be run up to the Ranking Member, ADAM SCHIFF, he continued, after which a decision was made as to who would leak the information.

Notably, HPSCI policy specifically prohibited staffers from speaking with the media, on background or otherwise. Nevertheless, [redacted] noted that journalists would routinely call the HPSCI offices and ask for staffers by name.

Schiffs Casual Relationship with the Truth on Display

It should surprise no one that Schiff would allegedly orchestrate politically motivated leaks to the press. He was one of the loudest voices pushing the now discredited Trump-Russia collusion narrative, a fabrication that served to divert attention from Hillary Clintons email scandal. Equally unsurprising is the Department of Justices decision not to prosecute, given the hyper-partisan climate that defined Trumps first term.

Schiffs public record includes several notable false or misleading claims:

We have not spoken directly with the whistleblower.

Schiff said on Sept. 17, 2019 that his committee hadnt communicated with the Ukraine whistleblower. Reporting later showed that his staff had been in contact earlier.

More than circumstantial/direct evidence of Trump-Russia collusion.

In March 2017, Schiff repeatedly said there was more than circumstantial evidence of collusion. The Mueller Report showed, and former attorney general William Barr stated, that the investigation found no evidence that any Americans  including anyone associated with the Trump campaign  conspired or coordinated with the Russian government or the IRA in carrying out this illegal scheme.

Claims in the Schiff memo downplaying FISA problems.

Schiffs 2018 Democrat memo defended the Carter Page FISA process but was riddled with lies. The DOJ inspector general later found 17 significant errors or omissions in the Page FISA applications, contradicting that defense.

Asserting that the Biden smear came from the Kremlin.

On Oct. 16, 2020, Schiff told CNN, we know that this whole smear on Joe Biden comes from the Kremlin. Thats been clear for well over a year now that theyve been pushing this false narrative about the vice president and his son. Schiffs broad claim was publicly disputed by DNI John Ratcliffe on Oct. 19, 2020, and subsequent reporting/forensics confirmed many Hunter Biden laptop emails as authentic.

Official rebuke for misleading conduct.

In 2023, the House formally censured Schiff for misleading the American public regarding the Trump-Russia investigations.

Prosecution Was Never Going to Happen

Prosecuting Schiff would have been politically explosive for Trumps already embattled first administration. Republican leadership  hardly known for its moral or political courage  likely would have resisted. Although some argue that the Speech or Debate Clause (Article I, Section 6) shields members of Congress from prosecution for legislative acts, courts have ruled that the protection does not apply to non-legislative acts  such as off-the-record leaks to the press or campaigning.

The key question is whether Schiffs alleged directive was part of a legitimate legislative function  like preparing for a committee hearing  or an outright extralegal act. By declining to prosecute, the DOJ signaled, at least superficially, that it considered the conduct constitutionally protected. But that interpretation is far from inevitable. Given the political volatility of indicting a senior lawmaker, it is just as plausible that the refusal to prosecute stemmed from a lack of political and moral will, not an ironclad legal barrier.